PROOFHOUSE: AIMPOINT ACRO S-2 PERFORMANCE CENTER:

RUGER LC CARBINE .45 ACP RDS FOR CLAYS & BIRDS S&W M&P10 10MM M2.0
guns andammo.com

JUNE 2024

FIRST LOOK

COVERT
SIG SAUER
ROMEO-X COMPACT

CARRY
THE CR920X IS A
15+1 ROUND 9MM
SUBCOMPACT THAT
CARRIES LIKE A MICRO
BUT FIGHTS LIKE A
SERVICE PISTOL.
SHADOW SYSTEMS’
NEW CR920X.
P. 34

ONE-HOLE
WONDER
STAG ARMS’ PURSUIT IN 6.5 PRC IS A
BOLT-ACTION SPORTER THAT CAN SHOOT
SUB-MOA EVERY TIME. P. 42

SUREFIRE XSC

2024
SHOT SHOW
PREMIERE
NSSF’S TRADE
SHOW SETS AN
ATTENDANCE P. 68 P. 58 P. 96
RECORD IN VEGAS!
BODDINGTON JAMES WOOD
P. 74
Part 1 of 2: The Navy Arms imports Veterans’ Gun Rights
Savage 110 story. French FR F2 sniper! vs. VA Mental Health
 THE EASIEST WAY
TO GET A SILENCER
FIND THE RIGHT
SILENCER FOR YOU.

LET US HANDLE
THE PAPERWORK.

ENJOY FRONT
DOOR DELIVERY.

BUY NOW

Many people are intimidated by the process of buying a suppressor, but you don’t have to be.
We’ve simplified the entire process, providing you with the easiest path to suppressor ownership.

CALL 866.471.6871 OR VISIT

SILENCERCENTRAL.COM TO GET STARTED!
GUNS & AMMO Ju ne 2024 | VOLUME 68, NUMBER 6 | PUBLIS HED MONTH LY

CO N T EN TS

PUSHING THE ISSYSTEMS

THE SHADOW
CR920X
ENVELOPE A SUBCOMPACT
THAT SHOOTS WITH
BY JAMES TARR THE HANDLING OF A
SERVICE PISTOL.

COVER PHOTOS: MARK FINGAR; ABOVE PHOTO: MARK FINGAR

From maker of ARs to
bolt-action rifles, the
subscriber cover fea-
tures the switch-bar-
rel Stag Arms Pursuit
in 6.5 PRC. It’s scoped
with a first-focal-plane
Trijicon Tenmile HX
in 5-25x50mm.
P. 42

42
PURPOSE DRIVEN
50
THE LAST BITE
58
SNIPING ÉLAN
68
THE SAVAGE 110:
74
2024 SHOT SHOW
Examining Stag Arms’ Experiencing the Leica The French FRF2 PART 1 NEW PRODUCT
Pursuit in 6.5 PRC. Amplus 6 riflescope, long-range military America’s oldest PREMIERE
by tom beckstrand Calonox 2 thermal and rifle was an effective bolt-action is still Las Vegas was packed
Geovid Pro 10x42 AB+ combination of going strong — and as the industry rolled
binoculars on a innovation and style. shooting straight! out its offerings to
traditional German by garry james by craig boddington meet new trends.
driven hunt. staff report
by richard nance

Reader Blowback � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 8 Gun notes by Joe Kurtenbach � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 31

editorial by Eric R. Poole � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 15 Proofhouse Smith & Wesson PC M&P 10mm M2.0 � � � � � 80
Gun Room by Garry James� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 17 Proofhouse Ruger LC Carbine .45 ACP �� � � � � � � � � � � � � 88
Handgunning by James Tarr� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 23 Connect by Antonio Acitelli � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 95
Gun Tech by Richard Nance � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 27 Spent Cases by Keith Wood � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 96
NIGHTSTICK.COM
4 G&A | June 2024

gunsandammo.com
An Outdoor Sportsman Group® publication

VP, SHOOTING GROUP PUBLISHER

Chris Agnes

EDITORIAL
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Eric R. Poole
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Joe Kurtenbach
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Antonio Acitelli
ART DIRECTOR
Michael Ulrich
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
Michael Anschuetz
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
James Clark
SENIOR EDITOR
Garry James
FIELD EDITOR
Keith Wood
HANDGUN EDITOR
James Tarr
RIFLES & OPTICS EDITOR
Tom Beckstrand
TECHNOLOGY EDITOR
Richard Nance
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR
Beth Farnam

CONTRIBUTORS
Scott Avery, Craig Boddington,
Donna Boddington, A. F. Branco, Justin Dyal,
Dave Emary, Mark Fingar, Brad Fitzpatrick,
Robert W. Hunnicutt, Kyle Lamb, Lukas Lamb,
Alfredo Rico, Phil Schreier, Jim Supica

ENDEMIC AD SALES
VP, ENDEMIC SALES
Michael Savino mike.savino@outdoorsg.com
NATIONAL ENDEMIC SALES
Jim McConville (440) 791-7017
WESTERN REGION
Hutch Looney hutch@hlooney.com
EASTERN REGION
Pat Bentzel (717) 695-8095
MIDWESTERN REGION
Mark Thiffault (720) 630-9863

NATIONAL AD SALES
ACCOUNT DIRECTOR DETROIT OFFICE
Kevin Donley (248) 798-4458
NATIONAL ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
CHICAGO OFFICE
Carl Benson (312) 955-0496
DIRECT RESPONSE
ADVERTISING/NON-ENDEMIC
Anthony Smyth (914) 409-4202

SUBSCRIPTIONS INQUIRIES: Should you wish to change your address,

order new subscriptions, or report a problem with your current subscrip-
tion, you can do so by writing Guns & Ammo, P.O. Box 37539, Boone,
IA 50037-0539, or e-mail us at amocustserv@cdsfulfillment.com, or call
TOLL FREE 1-800-800-2666, Outside U.S. call 515-237-3699.
SUBSCRIPTION RATE for one year is $24.94 (U.S., APO, FPO, and U.S.
possessions). Canada add $13 (U.S. funds) per year, includes sales tax
and GST. Foreign add $15 (U.S. funds) per year.
By subscribing to Guns & Ammo, you agree to our Terms of Service
(https://www.outdoorsg.com/about/terms-of-service/) and acknowledge
our Privacy Policy (https://www.outdoorsg.com/about/privacy/).
Occasionally, our subscriber list is made available to reputable firms
offering goods and services that we believe would be of interest to our
readers. If you prefer to be excluded, please send your current address
label and a note requesting to be excluded from these promotions to:
Outdoor Sportsman Group – P.O. Box 126640 Harrisburg PA 17112 -
Attn: Privacy Coordinator or email your label information and note to
privacy@outdoorsg.com.
BE AWARE THAT GUNS & AMMO ONLY ACCEPTS SUBSCRIPTION
REQUESTS FROM AUTHORIZED AGENTS! WE MAY NOT HONOR
REQUESTS FROM UNAUTHORIZED AGENTS, AND YOU THEREFORE
MAY LOSE YOUR MONEY IF YOU BUY FROM AN UNAUTHORIZED
AGENT. If you are offered a subscription to Guns & Ammo, please call
1-800-800-2666 to determine if the agent is authorized. For more infor-
mation on subscription scams, please visit www.ftc.gov.
COMPACT PACKAGE,
OUTSIZED FUN
AXE .410
BY HENRY REPEATING ARMS

AVAILABLE IN:
BLUED STEEL
HARDENED BRASS
X MODEL

www.HenryUSA.com
 6 G&A | June 2024

®
CORPORATE
PRESIDENT AND CEO
Michael Carney

Y EXECUTIVE VP,
GROUP PUBLISHER & OPERATIONS
Derek Sevcik
VP, CONSUMER MARKETING
Peter Watt
VP, MANUFACTURING
Deb Daniels
SENIOR DIRECTOR, PRODUCTION
Connie Mendoza
DIRECTOR, PUBLISHING TECHNOLOGY
Kyle Morgan
SENIOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Tim Neher
DIRECTOR, DIGITAL EDITORIAL
Darren Choate
DIRECTOR, SOCIAL MEDIA
James Clark
For questions regarding digital editions,
please contact digitalsupport@outdoorsg.com.

MEDIA HUNTING
outdoorsg.com bowhunter.com
bowhuntingmag.com
TELEVISION gundogmag.com
outdoorchannel.com petersenshunting.com
thesportsmanchannel.com northamericanwhitetail.com
worldfishingnetwork.com wildfowlmag.com
FISHING SHOOTING
bassfan.com gunsandammo.com
floridasportsman.com handguns.com
flyfisherman.com rifleshootermag.com
gameandfishmag.com shootingtimes.com
in-fisherman.com firearmsnews.com

CONTRIBUTIONS: Manuscripts, photographs and artwork must be

submitted to the editorial department with a SASE. The Publisher
assumes no responsibility for loss or damage to unsolicited materi-
al. Please send to: Guns & Ammo, 2 News Plaza, Peoria, IL 61614,
Attn: Editor
FOR REPRINTS: For Reprints/Eprints or Licensing/Permissions, please
contact: Wright’s Media — TOLL FREE 1 (877) 652-5295.
The Publisher and authors make no representations or warranties
regarding the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of the informa-
tion contained in this publication. Any reliance or use of the informa-
tion is solely at your own risk, and the authors and Publisher disclaim
any and all liability relating thereto. Any prices given in this issue were
suggested prices at the press time and are subject to change.
Some advertisements in this magazine may concern products that
are not legally for sale to California residents or residents in other ju-
risdictions.
Guns&Ammo® is a registered trademark of Outdoor Sportsman Group®
in the United States.
Copyright 2024 by Outdoor Sportsman Group®
All Rights Reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced without
written permission.
Guns & Ammo (ISSN# 0017-5684) June 2024, Volume 68, Number 6.
Published monthly by Outdoor Sportsman Group, 1040 6th Ave., 17th
Imposs Floor, New York, NY 10018. Periodical postage paid at New York, NY,
ible P and at additional mailing offices.

Save $250 ONLY rice POSTMASTER: Send address change (Form 3579) to Guns & Ammo,
P.O. Box 37539, Boone, IA 50037-0539. Return undeliverable Canadian

49
addresses to: 500 R. 46 East, Clifton, NJ 07011. Canada Post Publica-
tions Mail Agreement No. 41405030.

Printed in the U.S.A.

AFFORD THE EXTRAORDINARY

8 G&A June 2024
R E A D ER WRITE US! “Letters,” Guns & Ammo, 2 News Plaza, 3rd Floor, Peoria, IL 61614, or email us at gaeditor@outdoorsg.com.
B LOWBAC K Please include your city and state of residence. Letters may be edited for brevity and clarity.

usual,” only with a new cast NOVEMBER ’74

of characters, we will be
ignored to the NRA’s detri-
ment, and the detriment of
all gun owners and the U.S.
Joe Mascia
Wexford, Pennsylvania

NEXT FOR NRA

PHOTO: MARK FINGAR

I read “Spent Cases” in the

April issue by Keith Wood. I
was glad to see that Wayne
LaPierre retired. I’ve been
HENRY HOMESTEADER, 9mm, MSRP: $928
a member of the NRA for
DON’T FORGET HENRY! more than 40 years. I’ve
I am a very enthusiastic Guns & Ammo reader, and I read not always agreed with the
every issue cover to cover. I take whatever G&A has to NRA’s position on certain
say as the gospel truth. However, I was disappointed with issues affecting our Second
the review of the Smith & Wesson Response PCC (“Proof- Amendment rights, and I
house,” February 2024). The review was well written and wasn’t always sure if the
comprehensive, but the mention of other 9mm carbines position that was being
omitted the Henry pistol-caliber carbine. I, like many presented to members was
readers, am considering purchasing a 9mm carbine. I have that the Board is respon-
yet to decide, but I think it’s important to be inclusive in sible for setting policy or
articles such as this. Perhaps you can avoid similar omissions was for Wayne’s. Certainly,
in future issues. Thank you for taking the time to read and an audit is necessary.
consider my viewpoint. Transparency is important
J. Marshall McCall these days, especially with
Email the advent of “fake news.” though I wonder, given
I have always wondered the time elapsed since the
The missing mention of the Any self-respecting, morally where the money went article was published, if
Henry Homesteader 9mm honest, current Board mem- from the NRA’s relentless he would have any new or
($928, henryusa.com) was ber should resign and allow solicitations. As a former different opinions on this.
an oversight. However, you a new team to clean house CEO, I too have wondered Craig Dahlquist
can find Tom Beckstrand’s and start afresh. The exist- how dysfunctional a Board Email
review of Henry’s innova- ing Board allowed LaPierre of 76 members is. My
tive, magazine-convertible to function as he did, mak- experience with Boards First, while .380 ACP
carbine in Guns & Ammo’s ing them equally culpable. much smaller was that it’s ammunition has improved,
June 2023 issue. The NRA does fulfill an difficult to keep all mem- if you are comfortable
— E. Poole important role in areas of bers adequately informed shooting 9mm, I believe
gun safety, performance, on important issues. Hope- that it is the better defen-
NRA VOTES education, and protection fully, the NRA will note Mr. sive choice. Regarding
Thank you, Mr. Wood, for of Second Amendment Wood’s comments and the Kimber Micro 9, I hold
speaking the truth about rights. The majority of the address its problems. these in high esteem.
the NRA. I’m over 83 and membership cares about Greg Loeser The line of this model has
have been a Life mem- the positive aspects of Lola, Wisconsin been thoroughly evaluated
ber. When I vote for new gun ownership and would and vetted through the
Board members, the first love a Board that serves us READY TO STEP UP years. The only knock on
ones to get my vote are properly. There are a large I read a review by Joe Kur- them could be its modest
new candidates who have number of new gun owners tenbach of the Kimber Triari capacity. If you want more
never served before. Sadly, who should be brought into 9mm micro. I am consid- rounds in a similar size, con-
I know it’s a futile act, more the NRA. Until we show ering moving up to a 9mm sider the Smith & Wesson
symbolic than anything. them it is not “business as from my Kimber .380 micro hammer-fired CSX, or any
Trust in Smith & Wesson’s Legacy - The M2.0® Pistol
Our commitment to excellence shines through our M&P® family of
polymer-frame pistols, renowned for their reliability and performance.
As the landscape continued to shift, we rose to the challenge,
developing cutting-edge polymer-frame, striker-fired pistols that have
become top sellers in the industry. Today, our M&P® M2.0® stands as
a testament to our dedication to constant improvement, addressing
critiques to deliver the best-in-class firearms.

smith-wesson.com

©2023 Smith & Wesson Inc. All Rights Reserved.

 10 G&A | June 2024 | reAder blowbAck

base-model micro-compact. WHY .45? or greater performance handling the pressure. With
If you are willing to move to I’m a seasoned reader of when handloaded. Though a custom five-shot .45 Colt
a striker-fired platform, the Guns & Ammo. I’m con- such loads should never such as my single-action
SIG Sauer P365, Smith & fused, though, over Keith be used in handguns that Bowen Classic Arms Nim-
Wesson Shield, and Spring- Wood’s column, “Bowen’s aren’t designed to handle rod, .454 Casull ballistics
field Armory Hellcat should Bear Gun” (February 2024). them, the cartridge is up can be achieved — or even
be on your list of options. Bowen rechambered a .44 to the task. According to exceeded — thanks to the
— J. Kurtenbach Magnum for a .45? .45 Hamilton Bowen’s “The longer cylinder length used,
Long Colt or .454 Casull? I Custom Revolver,” “When especially with the long,
SPECIAL STORIES think the .44 Mag. is more deployed in tough, modern heavy bullets that I prefer.
Thanks to Garry James gun than the .45 Long Colt, six-shot revolvers such as — K. Wood
for the article on the Fitz so perhaps it was a mistake. the Ruger Blackhawk and
Special. Not that I don’t Please clear this up for me. Redhawk, the .45 Colt SHOOTING FAVS
appreciate the newest gear Everett Kerns loaded with heavy 300- to I have been a longtime
— as a younger guy, I’m Leeper, Pennsylvania 325-grain bullets will pro- reader of G&A and a mil-
flush with polymer — but duce .44 Magnum per- itary arms collector since
the history and stories of Mr. Kerns, excellent ques- formance at considerably 1958. In the April 2024
the older guns are what tion. The .44 Remington lower pressure.” The .454 “Connect” column, Antonio
I’ve been drawn to reading Magnum is a fantastic car- Casull is a .45 Colt with a Acitelli asked about our
lately. I inherited a “Detroit tridge capable of amazing slightly longer case. This favorite calibers; I have
PD”-marked Colt Cobra, performance in factory guns dimensional change was several. I especially like
so knowing more about the using factory ammunition. not made to increase case the 6.5x55mm Swedish
variants of the Detective It is, in effect, the “easy capacity, but to prevent the Mauser, for example. It
Special was intriguing. button” when it comes to cartridge from being inad- performs well in my M1896
Peter Toering powerful handguns. The vertently loaded into .45 and M1938. The 7x57mm is
Attica, Michigan .45 Colt is capable of equal Colt revolvers incapable of another favorite in my bolt

XS AR Upper &
Lower Receiver
Armorer’s Block
A great tool to assemble, modify or
maintain almost every AR pattern
modern sporting rifle available.
Designed to allow gunsmiths or do-
enthusiasts to hold an AR-15/M4, AR-10, SR-25
i i mounted vise. The Armorer’s Block
works with a DPMS
patterned 308, DPMS
GII, Armalite Rifle, and
w bracing into the mag well of AR10
standard AR 15/10
XS offers a 3D printed adaptor plate pattern rifles. (Will not
chase. work for ARs in .300
Win Mag or 12 ga.)

xssights.com | 888-744-4880 | tech@xssights.com

12 G&A | June 2024 | reAder blowbAck

guns, and M49 FN ABL. tomatic pistol and enjoyed ATF, DEA and CIA follow Systems MR920 War Poet.
The 8x57mm is a fine round unprecedented success suit. Does anyone still carry It’s an outstanding handgun
but underloaded by Amer- with each caliber, iteration, the .45 ACP? Anybody? I for all the reasons he cited.
ican ammunition brands in and generation. It’s no don’t wish to malign the It’s not risen to EDC status,
deference to older arms. exaggeration to suggest .45, but if you gotta have however. I’m a SIG guy,
I handload the 8mm to its that starting with the G17, that caliber, consider the starting with a P220 for duty
potential! All these serve Glock pistols are no less an original Colt Model 1873 in 1990, and later a P229 in
me well in both jacketed important innovation since revolver cartridge. And let’s .40. After winning the U.S.
and cast loads. John M. Browning’s Model get brutally honest about military contract, I bought a
Ron Benjamin 1911 .45 Automatic. We the 1986 FBI Shootout in P320C in 9mm for the range.
Mansfield, Pennsylvania will be served by new ideas, Florida. Anytime you pack Then I replaced the grip
innovations and inventions a handgun of any against module with Wilson Com-
OUT-GLOCKING as time goes by, but rein- felons armed with a Ruger bat’s. Then I went back to
GLOCK? venting the Glock isn’t one Mini-14, you’re seriously SIG Sauer for another slide
I saw Eric Poole’s review of them. out-gunned. Even so, it was equipped with its Pro-model
in the March issue of the Tom McAlevey Agent Edmundo Mireles red-dot sight and more
“new” 9mm semiautomatic Tulsa, Oklahoma who prevailed and killed factory mags. The P320
pistol from a company by both assailants with his .357 has been my EDC since.
the name of Rost Martin. CALIBER WARS Magnum revolver — not a Because it accommodates
My first reaction was to let The U.S. Army, Navy, Air .45 ACP pistol. the P320 with optic, I use a
the company’s principals Force and Marines all use Michael Mackay Vedder ProTuck. However, if
know that a guy named 9mm pistols. Most Special Mulvane, Kansas I somehow lost my P320, I’d
Gaston Glock invented a Operations units, including be happy with that Shadow
similar polymer-framed pis- the Green Berets, Rangers, POETIC EDC Systems War Poet.
tol in 1982: The G17. Glock and SEALs, do also. Federal Mr. Kurtenbach wrote a John Kiekbusch
revolutionized the semiau- agencies such as the FBI, great article on Shadow Email
TANGO6T
TM

PROVEN
PERFORMANCE
again, and again, and again.

SELECTED RIFLESCOPE FOR THE US ARMY

SQUAD DESIGNATED MARKSMAN RIFLE (SDMR)

SELECTED RIFLESCOPE FOR USSOCOM SQUAD-

VARIABLE POWERED SCOPE (S-VPS)

SELECTED RIFLESCOPE FOR DEPARTMENT OF

DEFENSE (DOD) DIRECT VIEW OPTIC (DVO)

OPTIMIZED AND RUGGEDIZED FOR CLOSE

QUARTERS BATTLE TO MID-RANGE TACTICAL
ENGAGEMENTS

NINE DAYLIGHT BRIGHT AND TWO NIGHT VISION

ILLUMINATION SETTINGS WITH LOCKING DIAL

MIL-STD-810H, IPX-8 WATERPROOF RATED AND

FOG-PROOF PERFORMANCE

30MM MAINTUBE, FIBER OPTIC POWER

SELECTOR INDICATOR, THROW LEVER INCLUDED

ASSEMBLED IN USA

FIRST FOCAL SECOND FOCAL

PLANE PLANE

DWLR-556 FL-6
5.56MM / 7.62MM
HELLFIRE
DWL-6 MOA MILLING HELLFIRE
®

sigsauer.com
 STR-9MC, 9MM
13+1 CAPACITY

STR-9, 9MM STR-9, 9MM STR-9 COMBAT X, 9MM

15+1 CAPACITY 15+1 CAPACITY 17+1 CAPACITY
Overall length – 7.44" Overall length – 7.44" Overall length – 7.44"
Distressed FDE Cerakote Tungsten, Meprolight sights

The growing family of Stoeger striker-fired, semi-auto pistols include

micro-compact, mid-size and full-size models to fit any application.
Optic-ready versions available. Standard features include:
ı
Integrated rail for accessories Internal safety
ı
Front and back slide serrations Three-dot sight system
ı
Enhanced ergonomics Smooth-draw rounded edges
ı
Interchangeable backstraps Included cable lock StoegerIndustries.com

Shotguns • Pistols • Airguns

E DI TO R I AL

Benelli and Rob Roberts team up

to improve shotgun performance.

ERFECT PATTERNS
@GUNSANDAMMOMAG

ICALLY SHOOT 20 TO 23 CLAYS out of 25 during a position shim kit to further allow shooters to personalize
d of skeet. Don Sipes, NRA National Shotgun Coach cast and drop. Externally, Performance Shop semiautos are
er, was an incredible mentor during my formative equipped with an enlarged bolt handle and bolt-release
competing as a member of the Dead Birds Society. button, which make for quick, deliberate operation of
e a shotgunner scored their first 25, Sipes would the bolt. The secret sauce, however, is Rob Roberts’

BENELLI SBE3 WATERFOWL PERFORMANCE SHOP, 12 GA., MSRP: $3,649

take their hat and throw it downrange as the rest of approach to the Crio System barrel. Inside each Per-
the team peppered it with No. 8s and 9s in recognition formance Shop shotgun barrel is a lengthened forcing
of that achievement. I only competed for 2 years, but cone engineered to produce more uniform patterns.
I never managed to shoot a perfect round. It’s nagged The forcing cone service produced the most dramatic
me ever since. I am certain that it was nothing more and measurable improvement for patterning and recoil
than a mental roadblock I put in my path. reduction. It’s the area in front of the chamber in a bar-
I used to dread waterfowl hunting with my family. rel that directs the shot load into the bore. Most shot-
It’s often bitterly cold, and I usually leave uncomfort- guns have a forcing
ably wet. Part of my loathing, if I’m being honest with PERFORMANCE cone that’s short
myself, is that I rarely shot more than a bird or two, FEDERAL BLACKCLOUD FS STEEL with a steep angle.
and in this career, I’m changing guns during the event, 12 GA.; BB SHOT; 1,450 FPS Roberts lengthens
AVERAGE PELLET COUNT: 170
sometimes multiple times each day to evaluate them. AVERAGE OF 10 SHOTS AT 40 YARDS this to 3 inches and
My attitude got an adjustment in 2023 when Brian ROB ROBERTS RR2 TUBE (95.9%)
polishes it. Velocity
Kelvington of Federal Premium Ammunition loaned me is increased due to
his Benelli SBE3 during a trip to hunt ducks in South less friction, and felt
Dakota. It had been worked over by the gunsmithing recoil is reduced
services of Rob Roberts (robrobertsgunworks.com). because the shot
Warming up with it on a trap range before heading out load enters the bore
to our ground blinds, I shot a perfect run and nearly more smoothly.
repeated it a second time. With an air of confidence, Pellet deformation
the action was like nothing I’d shot before. Hammering is also lessened.
Green Heads, pintails, teal and wigeons, we met our Roberts carved a
limit each day in just a few hours using Federal Premium niche when he met
21¼-IN. INNER CIRCLE 122 (72%)
Black Cloud FS Steel with the new FliteControl Flex wad 30-IN. OUTER CIRCLE 41 (24%) a man who made
TOTAL HITS 163 (96%)
and Hevi-Metal Extreme. Bird after bird crashed into the a computerized
field of decoys after being struck by one or two rounds. pattern analysis
The success rate was like nothing I’ve experienced machine. It allowed the company to pattern guns
before. The location, calling, decoys and ammo each faster and consider how individual guns respond
contributed to our success — but so did that shotgun. to barrel modifications, different loads and choke
As soon as I returned home, I learned that Rob Rob- constrictions. Testing continues into the field for
erts offers services for all types of wingshooting, includ- each hunting season, whether it is for dove,
ing turkey and upland hunting. Those who know, know, duck, geese or turkey. The data collected
and so does Benelli. Guns & Ammo unveiled the SBE3 in evolves, and Benelli notices the results. The
the March 2017 issue. Two years later, Benelli announced partnership between the brands offers serious
its Performance Shop would offer tuned models for turkey wildfowl and turkey hunters a better shotgun.
hunting and waterfowl with parts and services by Roberts. The Benelli Performance Shop delivers fac-
These guns feature a HiViz CompSight installed on the tory-backed custom guns for serious hunt-
carbon-fiber vent rib, three “RR” chokes, a paracord sling, ers willing to invest in their results. Here, I
as well as extra inserts for the sight and Benelli’s 40- may have found my perfect score.
G U N R OOM

“Your example’s shape raises its worth considerably.”

GARRY.JAMES@
OUTDOORSG.COM

cartridges. My son uses

brown craft paper to fabri-
cate his.
2. The needle in the bolt
pierces the bottom of the
paper cartridge and ignites
an upside-down musket
cap glued to the bottom.
3. Bore and groove diam-
eters are almost perfect for
.45-caliber rifle bullets. My
son uses .45-70 round-nose
lead bullets.
4. Head spacing is on
the bullet ogive; you must
French Chassepot needle assemble the paper car-
fire rifle was very interest- tridge to exactly the right
ing. My son obtained one length for your particular
ITHACA DOUBLE CONVERSION of these a few years ago, action.
Q: This is an Ithaca New Model side-by-side shotgun. The and boy was it a learning 5. Reduced loads using
interesting part is that it has a .38-56 Winchester sleeve, experience! Here are some cream-of-wheat filler
with an extractor that can be used in either barrel. Open additional oddities of the can substantially lessen
sights appear to be factory, as does the sleeve. The Chassepot: the recoil and make the
sleeve has no markings, though, so I’ve been unable to 1. It uses tapered paper Chassepot comfortable to
find anything like it. Any help would be appreciated.
M. B. AUCTION BLOCK
Email

A: You do have a New admit I have never seen a

Ithaca Gun Company model rifled insert tube quite like
double shotgun, which, as the one in your photos, so
you say, appears to be a I’m going to open this one
relatively early incarnation. to Guns & Ammo’s readers
The gun has little finish and for some feedback. I’m
considerable pitting on inclined to think it is not an
the barrels, so it appears Ithaca product. I can find no
to me the good condition reference to such an acces-
of the rear sight, plus the sory in early Ithaca literature
rather pedestrian mounting and advertisements.
of same, indicates it is an
aftermarket arrangement CHASSEPOT
installed sometime after LOADING INFO
the gun had already seen Q: The recent reply from
considerable use. I have to Garry James regarding the
18 G&A | June 2024 | Gun room

shoot. MINTY S&W VALUE

6. The front sight is Q: I wonder if you can give
integral with the barrel me some help on the value
and immovable. The rear of a revolver that’s been in
sight was originally silver my family for 70-plus years.
soldered onto the barrel. I have seen various auction
7. New needles and prices. I’m not looking to
new rubber gas seals are sell, just to insure. About
available on the internet 5 years ago, a gunshop
to bring back to life one of would take it and display
these ancient oddities. it for $4,000, if I recall
E. O. correctly. The gun is in its
$1,250
Email original box with the tools.
It has never been shot.
A: Thanks for the info. I’ve T. L. pearl grips and extras add erby. I have a letter from
loaded for my Chassepot Email considerably to the gun’s Mr. Weatherby, Jr. that he
(and Dreyse Zundnadel- value. They made 239,600 indeed built the rifle. He
gewehr) for years and have A: Your photos show you of these guns between 1883 did not state who it was
had a great time shooting have a minty .32 Smith & and 1909, and they don’t built for. My stepfather
them. I must admit, though, Wesson Double-Action 4th normally bring big money. served in the U.S. Air Force
that putting together the Model in extremely fine — Your example’s shape raises for some 27 years until he
cartridges is a bit of a almost mint — condition, its worth considerably. retired. He was an avid
chore, as your Chassepot with box and accessories. I’d say this whole setup is sportsman and gun collec-
load recipe verifies. The condition, plus the between $1,000 and $1,250. tor, and his pride and joy of
all of his guns was this rifle.
HOLLYWOOD HARDWARE SPRINGFIELD While stationed in Turkey
“TRAPDOOR” RIFLE at the Çigli Air Base, he
Q: I have a U.S. Model said that they invited the
1875 Springfield cham- Shah of Iran to hunt wild
bered in .45-70 that I boar at the Rod and Gun
inherited from my father- Club, and that’s who they
in-law. Its serial number had this rifle custom made
is 108XXX. I would like to for. The Shah was never
know any information and able to go, though, and he
if it has any value. never used the rifle. So,
B. J. my stepfather purchased it
Email from the Rod & Gun Club.
It has never been fired
A: Your Springfield “Trap- outside of the Weatherby
door” is a Model 1879 rifle. factory and has been kept
These were made between in a gun vault through the
1879 and 1888. Somewhere years. I showed the gun to
in the neighborhood of a good friend who thought
15,000 were produced, you might find the rifle
along with 15,000 Car- interesting and be able to
bines, and 5,000 Cadet value it. I will never sell the
Rifles. From your photos, rifle but I would still like to
it appears that the piece know more about it.
is in excellent condition. D. F.
As such, I’d value it in the St. George, Utah
$1,500 to $1,750 range.
A: I ran this one by my
WEATHERBY MARK V expert on such things,
Q: I have a custom .300 Dwight Van Brunt of Sports-
Weatherby Magnum rifle man’s Legacy (sportsmans-
that was built by Weath- legacy.com). He said this a
 275 +
1 DESIGN | 2 SIZES
F
I
T
S
OF
THE MOST POPULAR
FIREARMS
NEAR INFINITE
RETENTION
ADJUSTMENTS

E OF
THE EPITOM
T IL IT Y, IN N OVATION,
VERSA M ANCE.
P E R F O R
AND

MU LT I F L E X
HOLSTER
INSIDE / OU
TSIDE

IWB-OWB
BAND
THE WAIST

BY CROSSBREED HOLSTERS

N 8. CROSSB REE DH OL ST E R S.C OM

20 G&A | June 2024 | Gun room

CIVIL WAR seeing the various firearms

REMINGTON people are submitting and
Q: I have an elderly your take, not only the
acquaintance who has a estimated value, but the
privately owned Civil War history of the submittal.
museum in North Carolina. In the March 2024 issue, I
He recently obtained a noticed what I believe to
pistol for the collection. He be an error in the “Holly-
was interested in getting wood Hardware” piece. It
REMINGTON MODEL 1891 MOSIN-NAGANT CUTA
some feedback on it. I’ve is headlined “Remington-
attached photos of it for Keene, ‘Joe Kidd’ (1972).”
many of these curiosities review. I took pictures of In the article, it said it
may have been made, all areas of the pistol with was used by Sam Elliot’s
what country the crest engraved numbers, includ- character in “The Quick
represents, and whether it ing the cartouche. I hope and Dead” (1987). As this
has any value or collectible you can help him out. is a favorite movie of mine,
interest. Many thanks. R. S. I have watched it numer-
L. C. Email ous times and have never
Email seen this rifle in the movie.
A: Your friend has a Rem- However, I have seen what
A: What an interesting ington New Model Army I believe to be this rifle
item! You have what revolver. These excellent being utilized by Brad
appears to be a factory percussion .44s were manu- Johnson as “Beau Dorn”
very nice piece and valued cutaway of a Remington- factured from 1863 to 1875. in Tom Selleck’s “Crossfire
it at between $4,000 and made Model 1891 Russian About 122,000 were turned Trail” (2001).
$6,500. Van Brundt affirmed Mosin-Nagant. During out. It was a popular, highly N. R.
your desire not to sell it, World War I, Remington regarded sidearm during Email
adding, “I believe this is a and New England Westing- the Civil War. Afterwards
family treasure and do hope house were contracted by many were converted to A: Thank you for taking the
it remains in the family.” Russia to produce Mosins handle rimfire centerfire time to write. As I recollect,
to supplement a severe metallic cartridges. The the Remington-Keene was
REMINGTON MOSIN shortfall in existing rifles. inspector’s initials on the listed in the rental records
NAGANT CUTAWAY Westinghouse was to make grips appear to be those for “The Quick and the
Q: I received this item 1.8 million and Remington of Benjamin Huger who Dead,” however, it either
many years ago from a 1.5 million. After the Russian inspected a number of dif- wasn’t ultimately used or
friend to whom it had Revolution, the Bolshevik ferent model handguns for ended up on the cutting
been passed down from government canceled the the Yankees during the war. room floor. You are cor-
his grandfather. There is contract. Subsequently, rect that it never actually
no family history as to how rifles still in the U.S. were HOLLYWOOD appeared in the film. I
it was originally acquired. employed for U.S. military HARDWARE wasn’t aware it was used
The piece is fully functional training purposes, arming CORRECTION in “Crossfire Trail.” I’ll give
and in excellent shape. The American troops sent to Q: I look forward to read- that one a look and find
obvious difference between Russia during the civil war, ing your “Identification out. It’ll be doubly reward-
this and a stock Model and were sold on the civil- & Values” in every issue ing as I really like Tom
1917 is its stubby straight- ian market. Cutaways are of Guns & Ammo. I enjoy Selleck’s films.
bolt handle, which is similar normally used for armorer
to that of a vz. 24. Other instruction and training
than that, it’s a match for purposes. I must admit I’ve
my 1917 Eddystone. My never seen a Mosin-Nagant
guess is that it is a “one cutaway like this one and
off”-produced post-World can assume it is fairly rare.
War I example used as a As no examples have come
sales prop for potential up for sale recently that I’m
buyers. I would be inter- aware of, it is difficult to
ested in any information assign a value. In this case, I
REMINGTON NEW MODEL ARMY REVOLVER, .44 CAL., 50%: $2,250
you may have about how must demure.
 DEFENSE’S HOTTEST
CARTRIDGE

M O R E C A PA C I T Y T H A N A 9 M M MORE EFFECTIVENESS THAN A 380

MORE CHANGES EVERYTHING

This is the most revolutionary advancement in self-defense in nearly 100 years. Introducing 30 Super Carry from Federal –
an all-new cartridge that redefines protection. With more magazine capacity, more confidence, definitive ballistics and more
effectiveness, it delivers absolute performance by every measure. LEARN MORE AND ORDER NOW AT FEDERALPREMIUM.COM.

3 MORE
ROUNDS PER
MAGAZINE*
MAGAZINE CAPACITY
ENERGY & VELOCITY PENETRATION & EXPANSION
HEAVY CLOTHING
© 2024 FEDERAL AMMUNITION

223 FT-LBS
1030 FPS
10 ROUNDS
13 ROUNDS

347 FT-LBS
1250 FPS

364 FT-LBS
1150 FPS
30 SUPER CARRY 9MM LUGER

INITIAL GUNS AVAILABLE FROM AVIDITY ARMS, SMITH & WESSON ® AND NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM ®
* The new Smith & Wesson Shield Plus standard flush-fit magazine holds 13 rounds.
Look for even higher capacities in future firearm models.

FEDERALPREMIUM.COM
 INTRODUCING THE RM1C FROM

ROST MARTIN
T HE N EW EST A ME R I CA N - MADE F IREARM S MANUFACTURER

TH E NEXT G E NE RAT I ON O F F R E E D O M
AVA I L A B L E N OW

rost mar tin .c om Made in Dallas, TX

H AN D G U N N I N G

Do you shoot alternative-metal cases in your pistols?

Magtech’s new zinc-plated, but it doesn’t rust. Brass was stronger than copper and
cased (magtechammunition.com), easier to work than steel. The metal in a cartridge case has
was a lot of shooters don’t understand to have some give and malleability, but not too much. It
brass-cased and alternatively needs to expand upon firing to seal against the chamber
Or what they know may be wrong wall in order to send as much of the expanding gas for-
because there’s a lot of misinformation being circulated. ward out the barrel. Brass stretches; it expands a bit as the
In terms of pistol ammuni- cartridge fires, then returns
tion, there is loaded ammo to, more or less, its original
sold with brass, steel, or size, which is why extraction
aluminum cases. You can isn’t typically an issue. It’s
also find a few brands load- also slicker than other met-
ing ammo with two-piece als, helping it to slide more
hybrid-case technology. easily in and out of cham-
Though this is the “Hand- bers. Brass was the best
gunning” column, I feel a choice for cartridge cases
need to mention rifle cases. for decades, and ammuni-
With rifle ammunition, tion engineers figured out
True Velocity has made a how thick to make the case
name for itself developing walls to provide the nec-
polymer-cased ammuni- essary performance. Brass,
tion. These reduce weight just as importantly, has no
and resist heat better than “memory,” which means
metal, and the U.S. military it can be stretched and
is very interested in this formed many times without
technology’s potential. In weakening. If you couldn’t,
the 1980s and ’90s, there were some efforts to develop handloading with spent brass wouldn’t be possible.
caseless ammunition, as well, most famously in the HK G11 Why are there steel cases? A lot of reasons. During
military rifle concept. Polymer guns, the 10mm cartridge, World War II, various metals were in high demand and
and caseless ammunition were considered cutting edge short supply. Brass was considered a strategic metal, rarer
firearms tech back then, which is why “Aliens” Director and more expensive than steel. Almost every country
James Cameron outfitted the “Colonial Marines” in the involved in the war produced some ammunition with steel
1986 movie with the polymer-bodied M41A Pulse Rifle cases, and some countries never stopped.
firing “standard 10mm caseless, explosive-tipped light Steel has its own issues, though. It is not elastic like
armor piercing” ammunition. The 10mm is enjoying a brass. Instead of stretching, sometimes it splits. As a gen-
resurgence, but nobody has been able to make caseless eral rule, shooters don’t reload spent steel cases.
ammunition work properly in small arms, unfortunately. Much of the steel-cased ammunition coming out of
There were cartridge cases long before there was Europe and Russia is finished with a lacquer or polymer
smokeless powder, so don’t think the cartridge case is a coating. This makes it a bit slicker, but the coating is
PHOTOS: MICHAEL ANSCHUETZ

recent idea. The first metallic case was invented in 1808, mostly there to protect against rust, something you don’t
which had a copper base and either a paper or brass case have to worry about with brass. There are stories about
body. Encapsulated cartridges as we know them today getting some rifles hot enough to melt the lacquer coating
didn’t become the norm until much later in the 1800s. in the chamber, but I’ve seen AKs so hot the wooden
Why did brass become the standard for cartridge cases? handguards caught on fire without a functional issue feed-
It was common and not too expensive. Brass tarnishes ing steel-cased ammo.
24 G&A | June 2024 | hAndGunninG

Most of the complaints about

steel-cased ammo concern rifle use.
For handgun cartridges, steel is a
good alternative, though. Other
than not being able to reload spent
steel cases, steel ammo makes a lot
of sense because it is less expensive
than brass-cased ammo — sometimes
significantly less expensive.
One worry a lot of people express
about steel-case ammunition is that
the harder steel will damage the
chamber of their guns. Yes, steel is
harder than brass, but it is softer than
the steel of your gun. It’s generally
Though appearances vary, many cartridges utilize brass for the case. However, some manufac-
not pressed so tight to your cham- turers finish the brass with nickel coatings. While appearing similar to nickeled brass, some
ber that it will cause damage during cartridges are loaded using aluminum or a hybrid stainless steel/brass for the case design.
extraction. If it was that tight, the case
wouldn’t extract. Think about what’s going on when you aluminum-cased ammunition. This means it is just fine for
pull a trigger; the path of the bullet moving down the barrel practice, but I wouldn’t run it at a USPSA match where one
is far more violent than the case entering and exiting the jam means the difference between first place and the first
chamber. You’ll shoot out your barrel before steel cases will loser. Not every pistol has a problem with aluminum-cased
damage the chamber. ammunition, though. I think it depends on the tightness of
Steel isn’t as smooth as brass and doesn’t shrink back the chamber and the smoothness of the chamber walls.
once fired. If you have a rough or tight chamber, extraction In 2017, Shell Shock Technologies introduced its two-
might not be as smooth and you might get increased wear piece NAS3 (nickel-alloy stainless steel) case design. It
on your extractor. Again, this is mostly an issue with rifles, paired a slick stainless-steel body attached to a separate
not pistols. Most people won’t shoot enough to experi- base. With rifle cases, the base is stainless steel. With
ence a difference — except in savings. Shooting steel- pistol cases the base is aluminum. The result was 50
cased ammo can save a lot of money. percent lighter-than-brass cases while being stronger. It
The only real difference in performance you’re likely to was advertised as being reloadable. As this is a propri-
see is a dirtier gun. Some might attribute this to “lower etary design, I haven’t seen a lot of ammunition loaded
quality” powder inside the less- with these cases yet, and the ammo I
expensive steel cases, but truthfully, have shot came from smaller manu-
it’s happening because the steel case facturers making specialty loads such
isn’t expanding as much as brass as Fenix Ammunition’s Match Grade
and sealing the chamber; there is series intended to make USPSA Power
more blowback into the chamber and Factor (PF) requirements. Shell Shock
action. For the price savings using can convincingly argue its NAS3 cases
steel-cased ammunition, cleaning are superior to standard brass cases.
your gun more often is a great trade- I’m not convinced yet, but they are
off. definitely more expensive!
The only issue I’ve experienced Brass is still, arguably, the best
with differently metaled cases didn’t material for cartridge cases. So, why
involve steel cases, but rather alumi- buy anything else? In a handgun, you
num. Aluminum is very light, softer shouldn’t expect to see any perfor-
than brass or steel, and less expensive mance difference between using brass
than brass. Its softness almost makes and steel, but there is a difference in
it sticky, which can cause other con- price. Checking around; Magtech’s
cerns. I had a Glock consistently suffer new polished steel-cased 9mm
extraction problems with aluminum- ammunition was at least a dollar-per-
cased 9mm ammo. The case would box cheaper than the brand’s identi-
get stuck in the chamber and the cally loaded brass-cased ammunition.
extractor would rip off the rim. It’s not Cartridge case development has prioritized That savings can add up quickly,
alternative materials for rifle rounds to
just me; split cases and case-head lessen weight and cost of production. especially if you’re shooting as much
separations are more common with as you should be.
 800-338-3220 | HORNADY.COM

C E L E B R AT I N G 7 5 Y E A R S

A D V A N C E D R I F L E C A R T R I D G E

A
• Outperforms all 22 caliber cartridges in its class
• Rivals 22-250 performance from an AR-15
• Dual-purpose match and varmint application
• Designed to take advantage of today’s long ogive, high-BC bullets

Hornady BLACK®
75 GR. ELD MATCH

V-Match™
62 GR. ELD-VT™

Match™
88 GR. ELD®

Varmint Hunting Match Shooting Night Hunting LEARN MORE AT

hornady.com/22arc
GUN TECH

Aimpoint ACRO S-2

OF

HUNTER and sporting clay enthusiast, A RED DOT ON A SHOTGUN?

with lead and follow-through. While After measuring the rib of my Browning A5, I selected the
e concepts, more than 20 years of police appropriate mounting plate and positioned it about 4 inches
firearms prioritized the importance of focusing on forward of the forend. Then, I tightened it to the mount
the front sight over a target. using the supplied Aim-
That experience does not point wrench, which is also
transfer well to wildfowl used to open and secure
hunting or clay shooting. the battery compartment
When I aim at flying targets, and to adjust the sight for
they have escaped my sight windage and elevation. The
picture before the shot 9 minute-of-angle (MOA)
pattern arrives. Fortunately, red dot appeared centered
Aimpoint offers a solution: vertically; I only had to move
The ACRO S-2 reflex sight. it right to zero.
The red dot looked too
BEING THE FIRST intense, even for sunny con-
Technician and inventor ditions, so I turned down
Arne Ekstrand developed the brightness level using
the first reflex sight in 1974, the down-arrow button on
a concept that resulted the left side of the alumi-
from looking through a The Aimpoint ACRO S-2 is a compact, lightweight reflex sight num housing. There are 10
designed to mount to a shotgun’s ventilated rib. The closed emitter
toilet paper roll. The Aim- ACRO S-2 is waterproof, making it dependable for all hunting and intensity settings, and you
point Electronic was the sporting environments. $755 can get more than 5 years
company’s first commercial of power out of one battery.
product, appearing in 1975. AIMPOINT ACRO S-2 The 15x15mm aperture provides a
There is no denying the impact TYPE clear, parallax-free view. Mounting the
that Aimpoint has had with pistol ACRO S-2 forward of the handguard
MAGNIFICATION
and rifle shooters, and they have makes it easier to see the target while
become smaller, longer lasting, and RETICLE maintaining awareness of the sur-
more reliable. The culmination of this DIMENSIONS rounding area. (Keep both eyes open.)
technology is found in the ACRO WEIGHT As the clays flew laterally, I knocked
series, which first appeared in Guns & them down with relative ease. The
BATTERY
Ammo’s November 2018 issue. red dot showed me where the muzzle
Red-dot-ready pistols and rifles MOUNT of my shotgun was in relation to the
are now common. Though Aimpoint MSRP target, which improved lead, tracking
introduced the Micro S-1 shotgun sight MANUFACTURER and follow-through. While keeping
in 2017, it wasn’t until the 2024 launch the target and dot within the optic
of the ACRO S-2 that such a red dot window, my hit ratio improved. Expert
made a bigger splash than a perfectly hit duck plummet- shotgunners may not need such information, but moder-
ing into a pond. Some traditionalists scoff at the notion of ately experienced wingshooters like me will find that the
PHOTOS: ALFREDO RICO

mounting a reflex sight to the rib of a sporting gun, but now ACRO S-2 is a gamechanger. (I even went six for six on my
they can. I can hear it now: “You don’t aim a shotgun, you local Sporting Clay’s rabbit target stage, which is a rarity.)
point it while looking down the barrel toward the target.” The ACRO S-2 weighs just 2.6 ounces — including the
While true, I have discovered that a reflex sight can be a mount. The extra weight on a shotgun rib is negligible.
tremendous help, even while shooting at birds or clays. The housing didn’t obstruct my vision the way it did
28 G&A | June 2024 | Gun tech

Adjustments are made using the Ten levels of intensity can be

Three ultra-low baseplates are included to accommodate most rib supplied T-10 universal Torx bit controlled using the two buttons
sizes, from .24 to .47 inch or 6 to 12mm. and handy Aimpoint spanner. behind the battery cap.

initially for Alfredo Rico, my friend and a Guns & Ammo The Aimpoint ACRO S-2 has performed well for Guns
contributor. Rico is left-eye dominant, but shoots right- & Ammo’s staff at the range and in the duck blinds. It fit
handed. At first, he struggled to see around the housing of most vent ribs measuring between 6 and 12 millimeters
the ACRO S-2 because he was squinting his left eye nearly using ultra-low interchangeable base plates. The height of
closed to force his right eye to take over. When he the optical axis measured .6 inches. Using the ACRO
opened both eyes and shot, he started busting clays. S-2 made me a better sporting clay shooter. If you’re
This was evidence that the ACRO S-2 can even ben- looking to improve your hit percentage, this may be
efit cross-eye dominant shooters. the fix. Visit aimpoint.us to learn more.

THE NEXT GENERATION OF HOLSTER EXCELLENCE

+
+
+
+
+

G .c m
 STOP THE TH HOLLOW POINT
expands up to 1.5X the original diameter
resulting in maximum stopping power

WHERE CAN I BUY WINCHESTER AMMUNITION?

Visit Winchester.com to find a dealer near you!
 RMR
LEGALLY, WE CAN’T SAY
THE RMR IS FIREPROOF.
®

BUT WE HAVE PROOF.

©2024 Trijicon, Inc. | 24TRIJ18482-R24 | Trijicon.com

was mounted to wasn’t so

lucky: it had melted.

See the legendary durability

at Trijicon.com/RMR.
G U N N OT ES

Who is the Czechoslovak Group?

IN 1995, Czech entrepreneur Jaroslav Strnad founded Airbus receive maintenance and repairs; Tatra Trucks, one
Excalibur Army (excaliburarmy.cz), a business focused of the world’s oldest automobile makers; and Excalibur
on the procurement, refurbishment and resale of Soviet Army’s armor refurbishing facility, where the tour ended.
armored vehicles including T-55 and T-72 tanks. Not unlike I observed tanks in several phases of rebuild, ranging the
Bruce Hodgdon in cartridge powders, or Springfield fully disassembled to those completely refit and equipped
Armory founder Robert Reese for firearms, Strnad saw the for service. Armored personnel carriers were also serviced,
potential commercial value including the U.S. M113
of government scrap and armored personnel carrier;
military surplus. However, Excalibur Army is extending
his primary customers were its operations to include
government entities, not vehicles of Western origin.
civilian consumers, and his During the visit, my con-
supplies came from Cold tinental counterparts were
War buildups rather than keen to ask about the types
World War-era stockpiles. and quantities of CSG-
Excalibur Army found manufactured vehicles,
success domestically and the munitions and materiel
with international cus- being sent to the Ukrainian
tomers. As the company military. No specifics were
grew, so did the size and scope of Strnad’s business. Key given, but my impression was that most of its defense sales
defense industry acquisitions bolstered existing operations have been to customers opposed to Russia. My primary
while investment in aerospace, automotive, railway and interest, though, was to better understand CSG’s growing
radar firms offered new synergies, diversifying the organi- presence in American ammunition manufacturing.
zation’s holdings. In 2016, the burgeoning Excalibur Group In 2022, CSG acquired Italian ammo maker Fiocchi,
was reformed as the Czechoslovak Group (CSG), and, in including its U.S. subsidiary and the ammunition and
2018, Jaroslav entrusted the leadership of CSG to his son, primer facilities in Missouri and Arkansas. The company
Michal Strnad. also plans to purchase Vista Outdoor’s The Kinetic Group,
Under Michal’s direction, CSG expanded. The group including its ammunition businesses: Federal, Remington,
includes more than 100 companies and a workforce of CCI, Speer, Alliant Powder, Hevi-Shot and Estate Cartridge
approximately 10,000. Reported revenues for 2022 were Company. The purchase is valued at nearly $2 billion and
nearly $1.5 billion. A truly international organization, CSG would make a foreign conglomerate the largest small arms
does business in 70 countries and operates manufactur- ammunition manufacturer operating in the U.S. The CSG-
ing facilities in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Serbia, Italy, Vista Outdoors deal has faced pushback from competitive
Spain, United Kingdom, India and the investment groups and some U.S.
United States. politicians who have raised strategic
In March 2024, I joined CSG concerns, but the acquisition is antici-
representatives and a handful of pated to be completed in 2024.
international journalists on tour Due to CSG’s relative ambiguity, my
through a variety of the company’s goal in Europe was to learn about its
Czech-based operations. Highlights businesses and get to know its peo-
included Prim, a luxury watchmaker; ple. That started with David Štepán, a
Retia, a company specializing in radar CSG director and head of the compa-
and communication technology; Job ny’s Ammo+ division, which includes
Founded in 1949, CSG owns PRIM, a com-
Air Technic, a place where com- pany known for manufacturing and restoring Fiocchi. Ammo+ would take on the
mercial airliners such as Boeing and watches. Kinetic Group business, as well.
32 G&A | June 2024 | Gun notes

CSG is led by a sharp The former U.S. Army

group of businesspeople. lieutenant colonel will
These aren’t foreign activists oversee the expansion of
working to control Amer- CSG’s defense and security,
ica’s ammunition supply. industrial manufacturing,
It’s far simpler than that. and aerospace businesses.
CSG is primarily a defense Lemke joins another
company with 60 percent of seasoned leader in David
its business tied to govern- Blenker, president and
ment and military con- CEO of Fiocchi of America.
tracts. Comparatively, the Blenker previously spent
Kinetic Group has around 30 years with the U.S. arm
80-percent exposure to the The author’s tour of CSG in the Czech Republic concluded at Job Air of Brazilian firearm maker
consumer market. For CSG, Technic, which featured a visit to an aircraft maintenance hangar. Taurus in the roles of CFO
the acquisition is a “two and CEO.
birds, one stone” proposition that would diversify its rev- The entrance of CSG into the American shooting and
enue sources and bolster existing initiatives. According to hunting market might be the kind of disruption the U.S.
Štepán, U.S.-based businesses and consumers would ben- firearm industry needs. Outdoor “super groups” have
efit, too. The goal of the acquisition is to grow consumer been assembled before only to have parts of the company
sales, so winning over American hunters and shooters is dismantled and set adrift. I’m not keen to see Federal go
important to CSG’s success. There are no plans to move the way of Remington Outdoor Company, nor Remington
manufacturing operations. Rather, there are long-term repeat the brand’s recent troubles. An entrepreneurial
investment plans to grow the stateside businesses just as spirit paired with an invest-and-hold approach has allowed
CSG has done with its European operations. CSG to grow and prosper. With stateside leaders who
The incorporation of American leaders is also notable. understand America’s sporting culture, CSG could become
During the trip, Paul Lemke was named CEO of CSG-USA. a major player in the commercial ammunition market.
34 G&A | June 2024

THE SHADOW SYSTEMS CR920X

IS A SUBCOMPACT THAT
SHOOTS WITH THE HANDLING
OF A SERVICE PISTOL.
 June 2024 | G&A 35

PUSHING
THE
BY JAMES TARR | PHOTOS BY MARK FINGAR

ENVELOPE
36 g&A | June 2024 | pushing the envelope

While it has similar dimensions to a G43X, the

CR920X possesses a 15-plus-one-round capacity, has
a 5-pound trigger pull, and an optic-ready slide. There
is also room for a compact light under the dustcover.

SHADOW SYSTEMS
CR920X
TYPE

CARTRIDGE
SHADOW SYSTEMS’ CR920, CAPACITY
introduced by Keith Wood in Guns
BARREL
& Ammo’s June 2022 issue, has been
a huge hit. That was followed by the LENGTH
CR920P, reviewed by Joe Kurtenbach HEIGHT
in the July 2023 issue, and now this. WIDTH
As G&A’s Handgun Editor, I had first WEIGHT
dibs to evaluate the new CR920X. SLIDE entire hand on the pistol. It’s not
A brief summary, if you’ve never FINISH rocket science; smaller guns are easier
heard of Shadow Systems: Located in FRAME to conceal but harder to shoot. The
Plano, Texas, the company built a rep- CR920X, with a flush 15-round maga-
SIGHTS
utation for customizing Glock pistols. zine in place, is a quarter-inch taller
Now it is well-known for producing TRIGGER PULL
than the CR920 with the extended
its own Glock-style handguns. In 13-round magazine inserted.
SAFETY
many ways, Shadow Systems pistols
are superior to “G” factory guns. PRICE BY THE NUMBERS
Every part and piece of a Shadow Like all of Shadow Systems’ pistols,
ACCESSORIES
Systems pistol is made in the U.S. the CR920X is a polymer-framed,
The naming system is a bit confus- striker-fired semiautomatic that’s
ing, though. As for the CR920 series, MANUFACTURER only available in 9mm. It possesses
CR stands for “Covert Role,” and this all the features modern concealed
is a 9mm pistol purpose-built for carry users are demanding, too. As I
concealed carry. Think of the original CR920 as a pistol write this, Shadow Systems hasn’t announced this pis-
with the dimensions of the micro-compact Glock 43, but tol. In fact, there isn’t even advertising for it. So think of
with the capacity of the Glock 26 due to the development G&A’s test guns as early production samples. I presume,
of the steel, double-column magazine. Flush magazines for like all the other models, the CR920X will be available in
the CR920 hold 10 rounds, and extended magazines have two versions: The basic Foundation model, and the fully
a 13-round capacity. loaded CR920X Elite, as seen in the accompanying photos.
The new-for-2024 Shadow Systems CR920X utilizes The Elite models have additional slide texturing and ports
the same top end as the CR920, but it has a longer grip machined into the slide. All are available either with black
frame that accepts flush 15-round magazines like the G19. barrels finished with a black nitride or a bronze titanium
In short, the CR920X is a pistol with similar dimensions carbon-nitride (TiCN) finish.
as the subcompact Glock 43X, but with 50 percent more The CR920X has a 3.41-inch barrel. Overall it is 6.37
capacity and better features. While testing the CR920 inches long and 5.2 inches tall with the flush-size maga-
in the past, I found that I preferred shooting with the zine in place. Empty, with magazine inserted, it weighs 19
extended 13-round magazine. It allowed me to get my ounces according to a digital scale. For comparison, the
 pushing the envelope | June 2024 | g&A 37

A Night Fision tritium-filled

Disassembling the CR920X reveals that the internal workings did not diverge far from popular front sight is framed by a
striker-fired 9mm designs. Where it becomes distinctive is discovering that most parts are bespoke dovetailed and serrated rear
to Shadow Systems’ pistols, featuring premium materials, machine work, fitment and finishes. notch that lacks flanking dots.

Shadow System barrels are available with a fluted, bronze TiCN The CR920X and CR920XP have optic cuts as a standard feature.
finish. With the slide forward, the flare is tastefully visible through The footprint supports the Shield RMSc and Holosun 507K pat-
ports on each side of the slide. tern. When not in use, a coverplate is secured by two screws.

CR920 weighed 17.8 ounces. course, all magazines for the CR920X will fit the CR920.)
The real news is in the width of the gun. The slim- Shadow Systems is far from the first company to
line Glock 43X, according to my calipers, is 1.03 inches notice the capacity failure of Glock’s single-stack maga-
thick at its widest point. The CR920X, on the other zines. Shield Arms makes an all-metal magazine for the
hand, is 1.06 inches thick. My hands can’t tell the dif- G43X/G48 that increases capacity from 10 to 15 rounds,
ference between 1.03 inches and 1.06 inches. However, although you’ll also need to swap out your magazine
while being of similar width, the CR920X holds 15 shots release to use them in the Glock. Shadow Systems didn’t
whereas the G43X only holds 10. go with these magazines because they don’t work with the
This isn’t magic. The G43X is fed by a large, single- reversible steel magazine release equipped in its guns.
column magazine. There’s room for more ammo inside the
grip, but Glock didn’t engineer it that way. Shadow Sys- MORE THAN AESTHETICS
tems did. Using a steel-bodied magazine with no wasted The CR920X is a very flat gun. Most of the frame and slide
space, the nickel-Teflon-coated magazines provided had measure less than an inch thick. Both the front and rear of
index holes at the rear corresponding to four, six, eight, the slide sport aggressive, flat-bottomed, angled serra-
10, and 15 rounds. (Shadow Systems indicated that it will tions, but Elite models have directional, angled serrations
offer an extended 17-round magazine for the CR920X. Of on the top of the slide as well, in addition to spiral flutes
38 G&A | June 2024 | pushinG the envelope

The triggerguard features a unique undercut at the rear for a

high grip. Controls, including the slide, were designed to be low
profile and serrated.

Textured touchpoints are above and in front of the triggerguard,

places to rest the trigger finger when not in use. The same tex-
ture also appears around the grip and on the magazine basepad.

steel plate mounted atop the slide. Remove that and you’ll
see the slide is set up for the direct mounting of optics
having the Shield RMSc/Holosun 507K footprint. For
accuracy testing, I mounted the new SIG Sauer Romeo-X
Compact. It sat low enough that I could use the iron sights
The serial number is located at the bottom of the dustcover. through the window, which was a good thing. When a
Compact lights are ideal for the short rail. battery dies, it’ll likely be at the worst possible time.
Shadow Systems has
and ports in the slide. I spec’d a slightly heavier
wouldn’t want ports in the trigger pull for this gun
slide of a pistol I was taking than the larger models. It’s
to a desert warzone, but still lighter than any factory
for a domestic concealed Glock, though. The factory
carry piece that should be spec for the CR920 is a trig-
cleaned at regular intervals ger pull between 41/2 and
anyway, I don’t see an issue. 5 pounds. That’s perfectly
One continued disap- acceptable for a subcom-
pointment with Glock pact defensive pistol. The
pistols is the standard trigger shoe is polymer with
sights. They are plastic and a gently curving flat face,
feature an improperly sized and the expected safety
and positioned dot on the lever in the center.
The CR920XP (above, top) features a short, steel compensator
front sight. In contrast, to reduce muzzle rise. The single-slot rail under the dustcover is Slide-to-barrel-to-frame
Shadow Systems has always longer on the -XP model to be flush with the compensator. fit has always been good
put great sights on its with Shadow System’s pis-
pistols. The day/night sights on the CR920 are steel, made tols. The slide is machined from 17-4 stainless steel given a
for Shadow Systems by Night Fision. The front sight has a nitride coating.
tritium insert, surrounded by a bright green ring. The rear The frame of the CR920X sports a number of upgrades,
sight is plain black and serrated, the corners bobbed to too. The raised texturing on the front, back, and sides
reduce snagging. of the grip is nicely aggressive. You shouldn’t have any
The CR920X Elite is optic-ready and delivered with a problems with it moving in your hand. There is identical
 INTRODUCING THE REVOLUTIONARY

DIGITAL RIFLE SIGHT - NIGHT VISION

UNSEEN
The DRS-NV (Digital Rifle Sight-Night Vision) is a red dot and digital night vision fusion optic that
combines Holosun’s red dot sight technology with digital night vision capability. DRS-NV features
an LED MRS (Multi-Reticle System™), digital reticle options (for use with the digital night vision
overlay), 1024x768 resolution digital night vision sensor with up to 60fps, and 2x, 4x, and 8x digital
zoom. Images and video can be captured on the fly and stored on 32GB of on-board storage.

MRS 1024 x 768 UP TO 8 HOURS INTERNAL VIDEO

MULTI-RETICLE SYSTEM™ RESOLUTION OF BATTERY LIFE RECORDING SYSTEM

HOLOSUN.COM
40 G&A | June 2024 | pushinG the envelope

SIG SAUER ROMEO-X COMPACT

PERFORMANCE
BEST AVG.
VEL. GROUP GROUP
LOAD (FPS) ES SD (IN.) (IN.)

Notes: Accuracy is the average of four five-shot groups at 25 yards from a sandbag
rest. Velocity is the average of 10 shots measured with an Oehler Model 35P chrono-
graph set 12 feet in front of the muzzle.

texturing on the front of the triggerguard, as well. You’ll

also see texture given to the small lip on either side of the
frame above the front of the triggerguard; this is where
the thumb of your support hand goes while shooting with
a two-handed grip. It continues the theme of “a little bit
of extra control on a small gun.” Just like the CR920, the
CR920X does not have interchangeable backstraps.
At the front of the frame is a single slot accessory rail.
There’s enough room on the gun for compact tactical $450
lights, which is a nice feature that would be useful if this $400
gun pulls double duty as a home defense tool.
At the back of the frame, there is a beavertail that is
reduced in size. Shadow Systems calls it an “intelligently THIS OR THAT?
designed beavertail.” It’s big enough to protect your hand The CR920 and CR920X are offered with compensators,
from slide bite, but not so big it makes the gun print. the CR920P and CR920XP. The steel compensators add
The magazine well opening in the frame is nicely about half an inch in length. Compact “carry comps”
beveled, and the front of the frame curves out slightly to tend to reduce muzzle rise. Interestingly, the CR920 and
support your pinkie finger. Unless you’ve got huge hands, CR920P use the same frame. The CR920XP, on the other
you should be able to get all of your fingers on the grip. hand, has a unique, longer frame that reaches to the end of
(Shadow Systems supplies a spare the compensator.
baseplate with a curved fingerhook.) Shadow Systems prices its pistols
competitively against Glock offerings.
AT THE RANGE To even compete with the retail price
The CR920X proved reliable. Even of the CR920X, you’d have to buy
though it is slightly larger than the a 43X, round up a couple of Shield
CR920, it’s still a small, light gun. magazines, purchase a new maga-
Recoil was a bit snappy, especially zine release — and you’d still have
when shooting +P ammunition. I see to upgrade the sights and trigger.
nothing wrong with choosing a qual- Glock is famous for giving consumers
ity standard-pressure defensive load 90 percent of what they want. With
The SureFire XSC micro-compact LED
for this pistol. Hits count; the more handgun light features a rechargable B12 Shadow Systems you get that extra 10
the better. lithium battery and 350 lumens. $359 percent — and a lot more.
Empower yourself with the M&P® Shield® Plus
Unlock dependable personal security with the M&P Shield Plus.
Designed for those who demand uncompromised personal protection
in a concealable package. With more capacity than previous versions,
optics-ready slides, and the same great performance you expect.
Stop compromising, and start carrying with confidence.

smith-wesson.com

©2024 Smith & Wesson Inc. All Rights Reserved.

42 G&A | June 2024
 June 2024 | G&A 43

EXAMINING STAG ARMS’ PURSUIT IN 6.5 PRC.

BY TOM BECKSTRAND | PHOTOS BY MARK FINGAR
44 G&A | June 2024 | PURPOSE DRIVEN

STAG ARMS PURSUIT

TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
THIS IS A STRANGE-LOOKING from the receiver. That rear disassem-
BARREL
RIFLE, no doubt. However, it looks bly pin is a nod to the brand’s history
the way it does for a lot of important OVERALL
in building AR-10-pattern rifles. At
reasons. Stag Arms’ Pursuit is a versa- LENGTH the other end, removing the barreled
tile and modular rifle equipped with WEIGHT action from the stock is as simple as
the most sought-after features. These STOCK
loosening two action screws and sepa-
are comprehensive and come to us rating the two components.
LENGTH OF PULL
from the competitive shooting scene. One aspect of the Pursuit that will
FINISH
Some casual riflemen might not value draw complaints is the weight. The
SIGHTS
all of the features, but as shooters and buttstock of the Pursuit alone tipped
hunters learn about the utility they TRIGGER
the scale at 1 pound, 13 ounces.
offer, many will. I weighed the center section and
SAFETY forend assembly and it, too, weighed
ABOUT THAT STOCK ... MSRP 1 pound, 13 ounces. In total, the
... Pick the Pursuit up in a gun shop MANUFACTURER
furniture checked in at 3 pounds, 10
and the stock will likely be the first ounces, which is about average for
component that you notice. It is most of today’s chassis-type systems.
of an unusual construction with an aluminum center Complaining about the stock’s weight, though, isn’t fair
section having the forend and stock attached to it. The without considering what it offers. The rifle has an adjust-
stock detaches from the rest of the rifle by sliding a single able comb and length of pull. A single Allen-head screw
captured pin left to right and then lifting the stock away controls tension on the comb riser, which offers about

A captured AR-10 pin secures the stock and grip to the chassis. The stock features sling attachment points and a removeable bag
It’s a detail that calls back to Stag Arms’ history in making ARs. rider. The comb is adjustable, and spacers adjust length of pull.
 PURPOSE DRIVEN | June 2024 | G&A 45

The triggerguard and magazine well — typically the “bottom The Pursuit was designed to accept AICS/AW-pattern magazines.
metal” — are integral to the chassis design. The 6.5 PRC model feeds from a three-round Accurate Mag.

1.2 inches of height adjustment. The

length of pull is adjusted using a
combination of provided spacers. Two
come installed on the Pursuit, and
there are two additional spacers in the
box. The total length-of-pull adjust-
ment is 11/2 inches.
The grip has a palm swell and is
almost vertical. The stock also comes
with a bag rider attached to the toe.
It provides a flat surface for a rear bag
when sighting in and accuracy testing,
but with the removal of two Allen An adjustable Like the stock, the forend features QD sling sockets on both
screws it comes off for field use. The height mag catch sides of the rifle.
allows the Pursuit
stock also features two quick-detach to be tuned for
(QD) flush cups on both sides of the specific magazines. ings; the Pursuit is no different and includes Magpul’s
stock, as well as another near the toe. AICS mags. For the Pursuit in 6.5 PRC, a metal Accu-
The QD cups on the side allow the rifle to sit flat against rate-Mag is provided.
the shooter’s back when slung, which is the most comfort- High-end chassis manufacturers started putting an
able slung position I’ve found. The cup near the toe is for adjustable-height magazine catch on flagship chassis
conventional sling use and carry. designs about 2 years ago. It allows shooters to eliminate
potential feeding issues, but also optimize feeding from
THE MIDPOINT & BEYOND any magazine. Making subtle changes in magazine height
The center section and forend are packed full of mean- makes the difference between a round bouncing out of
ingful details that not only the magazine and into the
impact how the rifle shoots, chamber versus a round
but how it feeds and how that finds a straight, clean
it’s used in the field. The path into the chamber.
center section is a single Think about the difference
piece of aluminum, so the in diameter between a 6.5
“bottom metal” is integral. Creedmoor and a 6.5 PRC.
This allows for precise Both feed from AICS-
control of magazine height pattern magazines. Both
relative to the receiver. Stag also need to sit at different
Arms also put an adjust- heights for the smoothest
able-height magazine catch possible loading experi-
on the Pursuit. Just about ence. The Pursuit makes
every bolt-action rifle that this possible.
takes magazines uses the Other convenient
Picatinny, M-Lok, and ARCA rail; it’s all here, under the forend of
AICS pattern for .308 and the Pursuit. The flat bottom lets the rifle rest on bags or stabiliz- features of the center
6.5 Creedmoor chamber- ers well when bipods and tripods are not available for support. section are the ambidex-
46 G&A | June 2024 | PURPOSE DRIVEN

Ballistic Advantage manufactures the lightweight-profile barrel. The Model 700 action features a pinned recoil lug between the
Spiral fluting reduces weight while enhancing aesthetics. It is receiver and barrel. G&A’s sample was chambered in 6.5 PRC
threaded 5/8-24 for attaching muzzlebrakes or suppressors. that produced sub-MOA accuracy with most loads.

trous magazine release incorporated

around the triggerguard, captured
action screws, and a small barricade
stop built around the magazine well.
The captured action screws mean no
dropped or lost action screws when
disassembling the rifle. The barricade
stop allows the shooter to set the rifle
across a fence and then push it for-
ward into the fence for recoil manage-
ment without the fear of inducing a
feeding malfunction from binding the
magazine. The barricade stop protects The TriggerTech Primary trigger is compatible with 700 actions
The three-lug bolt
the magazine and keeps field supports head is inter- such as the Pursuit. It is adjustable from 11/2 to 4 pounds. $175
from interfering with its function. changeable. Flank-
The forend shows continued good ing the extractor, THE BARRELED ACTION
dual ejectors
sense in both design and execution. ensure cases exit Guns & Ammo’s test rifle was chambered in 6.5 PRC
Stag Arms kept the bottom flat and the receiver. with a 22-inch barrel. The barreled action alone weighed
used a spigot mount forward of the 5 pounds, 5 ounces. About 2 pounds of that weight is
forend for a section of Picatinny rail. Mounting a bipod to action; the remainder is the barrel.
the spigot puts it out close to the muzzle, but also keeps the The receiver uses a pinned recoil lug, and the scope base
rail off the forend. Keeping the underside of the forend flat is attached by four screws. The bolt has a Remington 700
allows the rifle to ride nicely across a backpack. It also makes footprint, three lugs, and a 60-degree bolt lift. The bolt
it comfortable to shoot off- head is removable, though,
hand because some of us still so swapping chamberings
do that. There is a 3-inch from the 6.5 PRC to 6.5
section of ARCA rail that sits Creedmoor, for example,
just forward of the magazine is as easy as installing a
well. This is a good spot different barrel, appropriate
because that’s where a rifle bolt head and magazine.
should attach to a tripod, The Pursuit takes any pre-
but it’s also low-profile; it fit barrel cut to the Zermatt
settles comfortably in the Origin pattern.
hand when carrying the Pertinent to any rifle
rifle. The underside of the hunter — in addition to
forend has a metal section the ability to easily change
with M-Lok slots cut into calibers and cartridge
it. This allows for more use chambering — is the
A sear-blocking safety lever is part of the TriggerTech trigger and
of ARCA or rail, should the located just behind the bolt handle. The oversized bolt handle simple maintenance the
shooter desire. provides excellent leverage, and the short bolt lift was fast. Pursuit offers. The bolt
SEE BETTER. HEAR BETTER. SHOOT BETTER.

For more than 45 years, SureFire innovation has delivered cutting-edge solutions to high-
stakes problems. The Scout Light® Pro series of long gun weaponlights provides the most
low-profile and flexible mounting solution on the market. SureFire SOCOM suppressors
won the most extensive suppressor trial ever conducted and have an impeccable service
record worldwide. SureFire handheld lights are the gold standard in tactical illumination and
SureFire EarPro® Sonic Defenders redefine what’s possible in passive hearing protection.
48 G&A | June 2024 | PURPOSE DRIVEN

TRIJICON TENMILE HX 5-25X50MM

PERFORMANCE
BEST AVG.
VEL. GROUP GROUP
LOAD (FPS) ES SD (IN.) (IN.)

Notes: Accuracy is the average of five, five-shot groups at 100 yards. Velocity is the
average of five shots recorded by Labradar placed adjacent to the muzzle.

slip out of the receiver by removing one screw. Keeping a

spare trigger and trigger hanger available is useful because,
in the event of a trigger failure — the most common type
of failure — changing them requires little time. If you’re
taking a flight to go hunting, this is a low-cost contingency
plan that could save the hunt. The TriggerTech trigger
adjusts between 11/2 and 4 pounds of pull weight.
Stag Arms describes the best process for barrel break-in
in its owner’s manual; I’d recommend everyone follow
it. The process involves cleaning the new barrel; shoot-
ing 50 to 60 rounds through it; and cleaning it again
before doing any accuracy testing or load development.
I followed this procedure, but took notes about group
sizes along the way. The 6.5 PRC and 6.5 Creedmoor have
excellent chamber designs and tight free-bore dimensions.
Great accuracy is possible, even out of fresh barrels. A
good chamber design is not enough to avoid performing
the procedure Stag recommends. I cleaned the barrel and
then shot a 15-round group at 100 yards, which measured
about 2.1 inches. I let the barrel cool completely and fired
$2,190 another 15-round group. It measured about 11/2 inches.
After cooling. I shot another 20-round group about the
same size. Finally, I cleaned the barrel and started G&A’s
accuracy protocol.
features tool-less disassembly. This is helpful in a situation
such as when a firing pin pierces the primer, allowing FINAL SHOTS
fouling to enter the bolt’s firing pin channel. To access this Stag Arms’ Pursuit has a unique look, but offers features
area, just twist the Pursuit’s bolt shroud to pull the firing found nowhere else. Thanks to the easily detachable stock,
pin assembly out of the bolt body. Push one pin to the it is highly transportable. It offers effortless feeding from
side to remove the bolt head and the shooter has unfet- the detachable box magazines, regardless of chambering
tered access to the bolt’s nooks and crannies. and it is easily swappable from one cartridge to another. If
The other useful feature is the trigger hanger. The hanger you want one rifle capable of handling several tasks, the
houses the TriggerTech Primary trigger and allows it to Pursuit is a safe choice.
50 G&A | June 2024

Scoped with a Leica Amplus 6

1-6x24mm LPVO, the report of
a Steyr Monobloc in .308 Win-
chester was hushed by a Steyr
Breezer OSD suppressor.
 June 2024 | G&A 51

EXPERIENCING THE LEICA AMPLUS 6

RIFLESCOPE, CALONOX 2 THERMAL AND
GEOVID PRO 10X42 AB+ BINOCULARS ON A
TRADITIONAL GERMAN DRIVEN HUNT.
BY RICHARD NANCE | PHOTOS BY SIMON BARR

FOR HOURS, I stood on the hillside, a Steyr ensure it was a doe because bucks were not in
Monobloc rifle in hand, while using a pair of season. With a suppressed .308 in my shoulder, I
binoculars to scan the area below and across the tracked the deer through a Leica Amplus 6 low-
gulch. Two German Wirehaired Pointers and power variable optic (LPVO).
their handlers stirred up game in the heavily The Amplus 6 1-6x24mm scope features a
wooded area adjacent to a golf course. Over the crisp illuminated dot. The generous eye box
sound of golf balls being struck — whaaack — makes Leica’s LPVO a very forgiving scope.
and landing on the green behind me — thud, Of course, the suppressor promoted a sort of
plop — I could hear the dogs barking as they field etiquette, preventing my shot from dis-
chased unseen animals toward other hunters in turbing the nearby golfers. Suppressor use is
my group, seemingly away from me. quite common in Europe, and even mandated in
Suddenly, a mature roe deer, made its way certain areas. The report of my .308 wouldn’t be
down the hillside and toward the gulch, attempt- much louder than the ping of a golf ball struck
ing to evade the pursuing hounds. I hesitated to by the face of a club.
52 G&A | June 2024 | THE LAST BITE

Simulated hunting scenarios tested a hunter’s ability with rifle,

optic, and suppressor at Schiesskino Wachtberg, a shooting cin-
ema, helping prepare participants for the next day’s driven hunt.

The Steyr Monobloc and Leica Amplus 6

Until that moment, I was more 1-6x24 proved to be an effective pairing.
expecting an encounter with a wild
boar rather than a deer. To earn my prestigious Taylor Fladgate, one
German hunting license, I qualified of the oldest of the founding Port
with the rifle the day prior by firing wine houses. Of course, I partook in
live rounds at projected images of port tasting. As satisfying as it was,
running boar in various hunting though, the big day ahead meant
scenarios at Schiesskino, a shooting that I couldn’t afford to overindulge.
cinema in Wachtberg. It was an excel- The next morning, we made our way
lent opportunity to familiarize myself to Germany. Our home base for the
LEICA
with the rifle and scope, but the deer I AMPLUS 6 1–6x24mm week was a 900-year-old castle, Burg
was tracking moved much differently POWER
Honrath, in Lohmer.
than the simulator’s boar. OBJECTIVE
The castle is run by brothers Ans-
The doe traversed left to right. It TUBE DIAMETER
gar and Gereon Holtschneider who,
was about 50 yards away. Once I con- ELEVATION
in addition to being excellent hosts,
firmed the backdrop was safe, I took ADJUSTMENT are talented hunters, artists, brewers,
a breath and steadied myself. Then I WINDAGE ADJ. and cooks. The brothers hosted a
pulled the trigger. Crack! RETICLE beer tasting, followed by a tour of
The deer stumbled but didn’t go LENGTH the castle. We found our way to the
down immediately. It galloped while WEIGHT cellar where candles were the only
quartering away, so I cycled the bolt EYE RELIEF source of light.
and delivered another shot. Boredom MSRP Despite the late night, Leica intro-
gave way to nervous anticipation, MANUFACTURER
duced its new products early the next
and then relief. Firing the suppressed morning, including the Calonox 2
.308, it was a 170-grain Lapua bullet thermal sight and camera — available
that did the job. It was well placed. with a laser rangefinder upgrade — and the Geovid Pro
I wasn’t in Germany just to hunt, though, but that 10x42 AB+ binocular, which has an on-board rangefinder
would have been reason enough for me. Even better, I and Applied Ballistics Elite program.
was part of a small delegation touring Leica’s factories.
The event kicked off a few days earlier at the Leica factory CALONOX 2
in Porto, Portugal. The state-of-the-art facility belies the Building on the foundation of the Leica Calonox line,
company’s humble beginnings within an apartment in which was released in 2020, and the more affordable Calo-
1973. At that time, the Portugal factory was manufactur- nox Sight SE, released in 2023, the Calonox 2 possesses
ing mechanical and optical components for the brand’s the latest generation of the company’s thermal imaging
R3 and R4 cameras. Fifty years later, Leica-Portugal is a technology for wildlife observation and ethical hunting.
near-20,000-square-foot facility last expanded in 2013. The Calonox 2 View is a handheld model while the Calo-
Leica-Portugal works with 280 glass types and produces nox 2 Sight mounts ahead of a scope.
lenses for cameras, riflescopes, binoculars and digital laser Each Calonox 2 model is also available in a standard
rangefinders, among other components, the latter being a configuration, as well as a laser rangefinder version. The
technology that Leica developed. letters “LRF” designate the laser rangefinder models, which
After the factory tour and dinner, we visited the offer a maximum ranging capability of 1,312 yards. All
54 G&A | June 2024 | THE LAST BITE

four models feature Leica Image Optimization (LIO) soft-

ware for ideal thermal performance, as well.
Ergonomically engineered for intuitive operation, the
Calonox 2 is designed and made in Germany. Compact
and lightweight, the Calonox 2 handles like a luxury auto-
mobile with information presented with the precision of a
timepiece. The Calonox 2 produces sharp, high-contrast
photos and video, largely due to a sensor with 640/480
pixels and a 12-micron pixel pitch.
The Calonox 2 View and the View LRF were completely
redesigned; not one part was carried over from the original
The Calonox Sight was designed to be clipped ahead of a rifle-
Calonox line. The Bluetooth- and Wi-Fi-enabled LRF scope’s objective lens, giving the user thermal imaging and an
model was developed to be used with the Leica Hunting integrated laser rangefinder beyond the scope’s reticle. $4,199
app, thereby providing a ballistic
calculator companion. LEICA
The Calonox Sight and Calonox CALONOX SIGHT
2 Sight mount in front of a scope, TYPE

turning the host optic into a thermal OBJECTIVE

imaging scope combination. How- MOUNTING

ever, unlike the original, the Calo- SENSOR

nox 2 Sight requires no additional DISPLAY

zeroing. Think of it as an accessory RANGE

to the scope. No zeroing also means DIMENSIONS

the Calonox 2 Sight can be easily WEIGHT

transferred from one rifle to another BATTERY

using the appropriate adapter to lock MSRP

it in place. An optional remote switch MANUFACTURER

even enables the shooter to control
the unit changing grip of the rifle.
All Calonox 2 models feature
software that can be updated over the LEICA
CALONOX 2 VIEW LRF
air. Day/night modes are customizable
through the Leica Hunting app. As TYPE The Calonox 2 View LRF functions like
versatile as the Calonox 2 is, though, a handheld laser rangefinder, though a
OBJECTIVE high-resolution OLED screen gives users
it’s not the right tool for every job. MEMORY a clear thermal image for observation or
camera work. $3,199
SENSOR
GEOVID PRO 10x42 AB+
DISPLAY
Sometimes what you need is a set of RANGE
A .3-second measurement time with
quality binoculars. If you demand accuracy within half-a-yard out to 218
DIMENSIONS
the best image quality, wide field yards is what you can expect.
of view, and ballistic functions, the WEIGHT The Geovid Pro 10x42 AB+ is sup-
Geovid Pro 10x42mm AB+ should BATTERY ported with enhanced connectivity.
be on your shortlist. As you’d expect MSRP It’s compatible with a Garmin watch
from Leica, the glass is perfect and MANUFACTURER
and a Kestrel. With the BaseMap app,
clear. Clarity matters, especially near you can use GPS tracking to mark
dawn and dusk, or under a canopy locations such as tracks you find in a
or trees. Diminished light makes it difficult to distinguish field or shots at an unknown-distance range. The Geovid
important details about an animal or the environment. The Pro 10x42 AB+ surpasses the technology performance and
Geovid Pro 10x42mm binos that I tested were equipped user-friendliness of Leica’s older models.
with Applied Ballistics (AB) technology for the benefit of
hunters and shooters. LETZTER BISSEN
Leica incorporated an Applied Ballistics Elite calculator The trip to Portugal and Germany impressed upon me
featuring shot probability analysis that helps to deter- an appreciation for Leica’s history, innovations, premium
mine whether a shot is feasible. The laser rangefinder’s products, and passion for the shooting sports. Hunting
maximum range of 3,200 yards is what distinguishes the in Germany showed me that there is more to a Europe-
Geovid Pro 10x42 AB+ apart. Results are also fast. an-driven hunt than the taking of game. Never have I
56 G&A | June 2024 | THE LAST BITE

Roe deer are small. Even the mature bucks grow short antlers. As with tradition, successful hunters placed a branch in their hats.

Each species of game taken during a European driven hunt are

honored with their own song played through horns.
The Leica Geovid Pro 10x42 AB+ is a
experienced such reverence for the LEICA laser rangefinding binocular with a range
GEOVID PRO 10X42 AB+ of 3,226 yards. Of interest to sportsmen
animals harvested. After they were is the shot probablility calculator, which
TYPE
dressed, each animal’s carcass was presents the odds for a successful hit.
ceremoniously placed on a bed of MAGNIFICATION

pine branches in a specific manner, OBJECTIVE placed into a small opening on the
signifying rank. Even the hunters and FIELD OF VIEW right side of his hat, signifying own-
dog handlers stood in clearly delin- EYE RELIEF ership of the animal. Other hunters,
eated positions around the animals. In PRISM including myself, followed suit. Each
keeping with the “tableau” tradition, RANGE was greeted with a handshake from
the most coveted animal taken, a large DIMENSIONS Gereon, who exclaimed, “Waidmann-
boar was positioned first, next to the WEIGHT sheil!,” German for “happy hunting.”
fire pit. Then, the deer were aligned MSRP The phrase is also used in congratu-
from biggest to smallest, all placed on MANUFACTURER lations following a successful hunt.
their right side. A small pine branch The pageantry of the hunt was unlike
was placed in each animal’s mouth, anything I’ve experienced.
in what’s referred to as “the last bite” or “letzter bissen.” A
branch was also placed over the wound. For males, the cut LEICA’S LEGACY
end of the branch faces the head. For females, the cut end No visit to Leica is complete without a tour of Leitz-Park
faces the tail. in Wetzlar. The Leica museum is there where you can learn
The title, “King of the Hunt” is bestowed upon the hunter about the company’s history, which dates back to 1913
who harvests the most coveted animal or the largest num- when the the Ur-Leica 35mm camera prototype was devel-
ber of animals. On this hunt, Leica’s interim U.S. Director oped. “Leica” got its name from the first three letters of the
of Sporting Optics Dan Esquinas earned that honor. After founder’s surname, Ernst Leitz, and the first two letters in
brass horns played a tribute to the animals, giving thanks the word camera, “ca.” From the first portable camera and
for a safe and successful hunt, Esquinas approached Hunt- the first digital laser rangefinder to its inventive riflescopes,
master Gereon, who also served as a dog handler. A piece binoculars and thermal imagers, Leica is continuing a tra-
of the branch atop the boar that Esquinas harvested was dition of innovation and premium performance.
 ©2023 O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc.

|
MOSSBERG ® PATRIOT ™ LR TACTICAL

SCAN CODE FOR

MORE INFO u

M-LOK is a registered trademark of Magpul Industries Corp.

MDT is a registered trademark of Modular Driven Technologies.

SAFETY TIP
Store firearms securely, inaccessible to children and unauthorized users.
Consult and comply with any and all applicable federal, state, and local: laws,
regulations, requirements, and/or restrictions, including but not limited to
those regarding the purchase, ownership, use, transport, and carrying of
a firearm. Not all products are available in all states or jurisdictions.
58 G&A | June 2024

A French légionnaire with French infantrymen, one carrying an

FRF2 in Afghanistan. FRF2 while serving in Africa.
 June 2024 | G&A 59

SNIPING
ÉLAN

THE FRENCH FRF2 LONG-RANGE

MILITARY RIFLE WAS AN
EFFECTIVE COMBINATION OF
INNOVATION AND STYLE.
BY GARRY JAMES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PHILIP SCHREIER

COURTESY NAVY ARMS COURTESY NAVY ARMS

The FRF2 features a centrally mounted French snipers training with FRF2s.
rotating bipod. It can be folded and The rifles proved accurate, rugged
adjusted for height, permiting consid- and user-friendly when pressed into
erable aiming flexibility. combat.
60 G&A | June 2024 | SNIPING ÉLAN

ench Fusil à Répétition

e F2 (FRF2) rifle is a
stylish presentation
ended older and newer
s for a military sniper.

The FRF2 bipod

can be lowered
into position
using buttons
on each leg.
The legs are
extended by The FRF2 has a 10-round magazine
spring-mounted released by a generous lever sited on the
detents. lower portion of the side on the action
The FRF2 action (above, top) is a re- where it is operated by the shooter’s
engineered, enhanced version of the thumb. It is secured in position by an
French modèle 36 service rifle (below), internal flange that snaps into a small
which was simple yet effective. recess on the magazine body.

IN THE FIELD OF FIREARMS TECHNOLOGY, I think it when the scope was serially upgraded to reflect the needs of
can be argued that, when the subject of great sniping rifles is the battlefield. Useful though it may have been, the limited
discussed, those offered by the French are rarely considered. numbers in which it was issued reflected a lack of enthu-
This is unfortunate. While precision military rifles produced siasm on the part of the authorities. They were elusive in
by that nation are relatively few compared to examples devel- Great War trenches and, thus, today are rarely encountered
oped by, say, Germany or the United States, a careful study of on the collector market.
Gallic long-range military shooting reveals some interesting, Throughout the inter- and immediately post-war years,
innovative entries. As we shall see, the subject of the article, France produced no sniping arms of significance. It was
the relatively recent Fusil à Répétition not until circa 1971 that a scoped arm
modèle F2 (FRF2) is easily one of the built on the MAS 49-56 MSE semiau-
most intriguing, subtly elegant, and tomatic repeater appeared, though it
effective of its type. was not actually intended for combat
The lineage of French sniper rifles use but as an international service rifle
hearkens back to World War I where, competition arm. Unfortunately, its
like those of other nations, an arm was abilities were somewhat hampered by
cobbled-up from an existing battle a mediocre scope, the 3.85X APX L806
rifle, in this case the Mle 1886 M93 As the MAS-36 action, upon which the (03).
“Lebel” 8mm bolt action. Fitted by FRF2 is based, had no internal safety, this Cognizant of the ’49-56 MSE’s
various methods with an optic adopted was the same in the sniper’s mechanism. inadequacies as a precision rifle, the
To rectify the situation, the FRF2 was fit-
from one used on artillery pieces, the ted with a simple rotating lever that, when French embarked on a new program,
gun proved effective enough, especially set, mechanically arrests the trigger. resulting in the FR (Fusil à Répétition)
 SNIPING ÉLAN | June 2024 | G&A 61

The Scrome scope/base is removed by a sidelever on the action. The Scrome J8 8x40mm scope reticle is adjusted using two dials.
The integral rail and base are arranged so the scope may be set Initials on the top are B (Bas for “down”) and H (Huit for “up”)
at different positions to accommodate the shooter. and on the side, D (Droit for “right”) and G (Gauche for “left”).

series. Commencing in 1966, rather than using an existing plastic cheekpiece and stock-lengthening wooden inserts.
platform, the French decided to produce an entirely new A folding bipod arrangement, employing dual height-
arm. As we shall see, features seen on previous service adjustable legs was attached on either side of the rear of
arms were judiciously melded into the project. the forend.
The subject gun’s action was a beefed-up version of the While the basic MAS 36 action was used as a model for
French MAS-36 service rifle, “MAS” being the initials of the new Fusil, its new incarnation, as noted, was strength-
its maker Manufacture d’Armes de Saint-Étienne. It was an ened to improve its accuracy. A simple, manually operated
unusual slab-sided affair that accommodated a one-piece rotating lever is found at the rear of the triggerguard to
bolt with odd-looking but surprisingly ergonomic dog-leg provide the rifle with a positive safety without having to
handle. Designed in 1936 for use in conjunction with a alter any of the action’s internals. Turning the lever into
7.5x54mm rimless round, which was originally intended the downward position effectively blocks the trigger from
for machine guns, the bolt was simple moving completely backward and
and robust enough to ably perform tripping the sear. Trigger pull was
its task. Employing dual rear locking lightened to between 4.4 and 4.8
lugs, a sturdy extractor and minimal pounds, and the 21.8-inch barrel,
internals, it was easy to disassem- which jutted out a considerable
ble and service. Like earlier French distance from the gun’s abbreviated
military rifles, the ’36 had no safety. forend, was free-floated and tipped
Unlike the MAS-36 action, which had with a flash hider that could be
A simple notch-and-blade arrangement is
a solid floorplate, cartridges being molded into the rifle’s polmer handguard revolved to align the hider’s apertures
loaded through its top, the modified so the rifle could be used without a scope. with the grooves of the rifling. Sight-
receiver accommodated a 10-round ing included improved adjustable iron
removable magazine, the magazine sights and a variant of the 3.85X APX
catch being a robust, accessible lever L806 scope.
sited on its left side. The Fusil à Répétition modèle F1
Due to the action’s physiognomy, (FRF1), as the new piece was called,
a two-piece stock consisting of butt The flash suppresser is adjustable and was adopted by the French military
and forend defined the arm’s overall properly aligned with the barrel’s lands/ in 1966. Deemed a creditable piece
silhouette. The stock maintained grooves for optimum accuracy and of hardware, it was hampered by
ballistics. A rubber enclosure between
some features of the ’49-56 such as the suppressor and handguard is another mediocre optics and a proprietary
an added pistol grip, easily removable safeguard against thermal deflection. round. While an OK service cartridge,
62 G&A | June 2024 | SNIPING ÉLAN

An FRF2 bolt is easily disassembled by sim-

The bolt is easily removed by opening it ply pushing in on the knob at the rear and
and moving it to the rear while the trigger rotating it clockwise until it disengages. The The bolt features rear locking lugs and a
is in the rearward position. spring and striker can then be removed. generous, sturdy extractor.

it did have somewhat less potency than the 7.62x51mm Fitted with an integral mount that allowed the scope to
NATO round. Though the FRF1 was used by French be easily attached and removed to a rail atop the receiver,
forces for a number of years as its principal sniping rifle, the rail and mount arrangement was also set up to allow
in 1980, by which time France had joined NATO, new variable positioning for correct eye relief.
priorities were set. These included a rechambering of the The lens of the J8 included a clever reticle that permitted
gun to 7.62 NATO, a complete revamping of its optics and the shooter to determine and correct for ranges from 200
a reconfiguring of a number of features to those deemed to 800 meters. At first glance, the display looks a bit com-
desirable. Accordingly, work was begun on the successor plicated. When one gets accustomed to its eccentricities, it
to the FRF1. is revealed as a simple and extremely
It was decided that an entirely new practical arrangement.
scope would be employed. Patrioti- As successful as the J8 was, there
cally, it was designed and produced were others in the French military
by a French optics manufacturer. who preferred alternatives. The air
Requirements were 8X fixed-power force adopted a 6x42mm Schmidt &
magnification; it would have to be Bender, for example, the Gendarmerie
able to be easily focused and the a 3-12x50mm Schmidt & Bender
reticle incorporate a rangefinding or 10x42mm Leupold, and the navy
arrangement. As there were few optic commandos a 1.5-6x42mm Schmidt
The FRF2 cheekpiece is held in place by
makers in France, selecting a contrac- a simple rubber gasket-and-pin arrange- & Bender. All could be handily
tor for the successor to the APX L806 ment. It can be readily replaced. adapted to the new arm.
was not all that difficult. The chosen The Fusil à Répétition modèle F2
company was Scrome, a firm here- (FRF2), while basically retaining most
tofore known for providing optical of the F1’s action mechanics, was
devices for such arms and pieces as otherwise given a considerable make-
artillery, mortars and cameras. Up to over. Now chambering 7.62 NATO,
this time, Scrome had never essayed a the F1 receiver was appropriately
riflescope. modified. The floating barrel concept
What was finally adopted was a was retained, though it was enclosed
worthy, steel-body scope, the Scrome within a polymer thermal heatshield
J8 8x40mm. It was easily adjustable forend, the front of which was fitted
vertically and horizontally in mils The stock can be extended to suit the with a flexible enclosure between it
marksman by adding a dovetailed wooden
using a pair of dial turrets, and incor- insert of the desired length. It is secured and the flashguard to capture any hot
porated a traditional eyepiece focus. by a bolt through the butt. air generated during firing. Molded
64 G&A | June 2024 | SNIPING ÉLAN

As well as original-condition FRF2s, Navy

Arms offers refurbished versions. Each
gun, no matter the variation, comes com-
plete with a scope mount that enables
the rifle to be fitted with optics of the
shooter’s choice.
The thermal handguard/shroud has a
detachable rubber base that allows the
gun to be securely rested on a desired
platform without use of the bipod.

into the top of the shield was a Concurrently with FRF2 negoti-
rudimentary blade-and-notch sight ations, Navy Arms was also able to
arrangement to enable the rifle to be score a cache of No.4 Enfields used by
fired at close range, sans optics. the French resistance during World
The FRF2 bipod employs two War II, as well as a quantity of MAC
sturdy, easily height-adjustable legs Model 1950 pistols, all of which are
within a swivel set-up mounted purveyed by Navy Arms (navyarms.
between the action and the hand- com).
guard. It permitted fluid movement of The lack of glass caused Forgett
Each FRF2 comes complete with an acces-
the rifle without causing the shooter sory pack, which includes instructions in to figure out an alternative. With the
to have to alter the positions of the French. help of Curt Wolf of U.S. Armament,
legs. As well, the underside of the a firm known for reproducing Gatling
handguard has a removable rubber cover that gives a Gun and 1903 Colt copies, among others, a replacement
shooter a non-slip surface to quickly enable the firer to rest mount with Picatinny rail was sourced, thus permitting
the rifle on an opportunistic platform without having to users to handily fit any preferred scope of choice to the
deploy the bipod. unit.
The final product was a svelte, stylish longarm, look- In time, the French government decided the Scrome
ing quite unlike anything else in the inventories of other scopes could be released to the civilian market, so Forgett
nations. The overall length was 441/2 inches, barrel length acquired what was available. Unfortunately, there were
24 inches, and weight 11 pounds. Adopted in not enough to equip every rifle purchased, but
1986, the FRF2 service period continued for his foresight in building new rail mounts paid
some number of years thereafter, eventually off, ensuring that any FRF2 sold by Navy Arms
being replaced by the FR.G series of sniper would be capable of accepting an optic, be it an
rifles. Issued four per infantry platoon during its original Scrome or commercial substitute.
service life, the FRF2 was employed in Afghan- When purchasing the FRF2, Navy Arms real-
istan, the Gulf War, Mali and other venues. No ized that some number of the rifles would be in
more than about 3,000 were ultimately manu- good enough condition to sell as-is, while others
factured, however. would need some sort of tidying-up. The guns
After being removed from service and put were graded, dealt with, and priced accordingly.
into Gendarmerie stores, the arms were held Refurbished rifles cost $8,995 — sans glass —
back from civilian sales until recently when they and cost of an original varies depending upon
were finally ferreted out and rescued by Val The original 7.5mm condition and whether or not they are scoped.
Forgett, president of Navy Arms who, relying chambering All guns sold by Navy Arms have been carefully
on contacts enjoyed by old family connections, (above, left) used inspected and tested for functioning, so there are
in the MAS-36, and
managed to strike a deal with the French and other earlier battle no concerns about performance.
purchase what arms were available. Unfortu- rifles and snipers, Whether redone or as-issued, each rifle comes
nately, due to bureaucratic regulations and red was replaced in the with an accessory pack that includes the U.S.
FRF2 in favor of
tape, the guns’ original Scrome telescopic sights 7.62x51mm NATO Armament steel scope mount; steel bipod with
were not included in the deal. (above, right). adjustable legs; two removable wood stock
 AFFORDABLE
DOESN’T MEAN CHEAP

T A U R U S ® G 3 F A M I LY O F P I S T O L S

TaurusUSA.com
66 G&A | June 2024 | SNIPING ÉLAN

With a French-issue Scrome J8 8x40mm,

the original condition FRF2 shot well,
resulting in consistent long-range hits A not untypical half-inch, 100-yard group
and superb 100-yard accuracy. Recoil was The J8 mil-dot reticle may appear compli- achieved by the original condition FRF2
light and optics were fine once the reticle cated, but it is actually easy to use. The with the French-issue scope and using
intricacies were learned. ranging marks at the bottom are based on HSM 168-grain, .308, HBPT match ammo.
the height of an average soldier, allow-
spacers; two removable black plastic ing the shooter to determine the range rifles, they both eventually extolled
at which a target is standing. Central
cheek pieces; two removable 10- lines and inverted “V” shapes are aiming the virtues and admitted it was defi-
round magazines with black rubber points. The lines from 200 meters to 400 nitely not at all as alien as it appeared
bases; a nylon two-mag pouch; field meters also act as rangefinders; they when first viewed.
indicate the width of a person’s shoulders.
carrying bag; nylon sling with snap Dual curved lines draw the shooter’s eyes Both F2 samples were run-through
connectors; plastic oil bottle; cloth to the center of the reticle. at the range. Chosen ammo was
pull-through with brass lead; angled HSM 168-grain hollowpoint boattail
steel takedown tool; nylon pouch for (HPBT) match .308, Federal 149-
carrying pull-through; takedown tool; grain full-metal-jacket (FMJ) 7.62
and original field manual in French. NATO and Winchester 147-grain
For my shooting evaluation, Navy FMJ 7.62 NATO. I suspected that the
Arms supplied Guns & Ammo with real challenge would be to navigate
two rifles, a handsome original in the Scrome reticle setup. With a little
untouched condition with Scrome practice, we found it was quite easy to
scope, and a nicely restored refurb manage, effective and easily adjusted.
topped with a Nightforce NXS The crosshairs of the Nightforce
2.5-10x42mm. The Scrome scopes are were straightforward and required
sold separately from rifles and offered no learning curve. We soon had both
in three grades. Pricing ranges $3,350 The author evaluated long-range shots rifles consistently ringing 300-yard
for A1, $2,995 for A and $2,540 with a refurbished FRF2 scoped with gongs — the farthest distance at our
Nightforce NXS in 2.5-10x42mm. Perfor-
for B. All have the original mount mance was excellent and the U.S. Arma- disposal — with all three brands of
installed for quick attaching and come ment mount worked to perfection. ammunition. The task was performed
in the original factory hardside carry effortlessly. The rifles were comfortable
case complete with spare adjustment knobs, sunshade, and shouldered well. Ten rounds could be run through the
lens cap, rubber eyecup, adjustment tool, and brush. A mags with no hang-ups; feeding was impeccable.
hardside field case is also provided. Moving to 100 yards, more serious accuracy testing was
Initial inspection of the arms revealed both had two- essayed with both F2 rifles living up to our expectations.
stage triggerpulls with a crisp 41/2 pounds. Scopes using Best spreads were achieved with the HSM ammo, but
either the military or new mounts were easily removed and only by a skosh over the other two brands. The most fun
secured with no change in zero. was had with the Scrome scope; mastering its interesting
The bipod allowed excellent flexibility on the bench sighting arrangement was a kick and not at all difficult.
or in the prone position. I was able to easily select and Five-shot groups averaged 1¼ inches with the HSM and
install the cheekpiece appropriate to my particular hold. 11/2 inches with the Winchester and Federal loads. Several
The buttstock lengths on both were perfect, so it was not spreads were sub-one-inch. Neither setup disappointed.
necessary to alter them. While inspecting the dovetailed Unquestionably, for its time, the FRF2 was a quality
block extender arrangement, I could tell that it would not sniper, and one that can still provide considerable joy in
present any problem to make an adjustment. the field or at the range. It would be an interesting conver-
The guns’ unique silhouette and unfamiliar action style sation piece in any gun room. For more information about
did cause some interest and conversation from other pricing and availability of FRF2 rifles, visit Navy Arms at
shooters at the range. When I later let a couple handle the navyarms.com.
AMBIDEXTROUS MAGAZINE RELEASE

AMBIDEXTROUS BOLT CATCH

AMBIDEXTROUS CHARGING HANDLE

AMBIDEXTROUS SAFETY

OP1500BT

LEARN
MORE CALIBER BARREL WEIGHT LENGTH

5.56MM 16-INCH LIGHTWEIGHT,

6.85 LBS 33"
NATO CHROME LINED, 1:9 TWIST
68 G&A | June 2024

PART 1

ACTION
IS STILL GOING STRONG —
AND SHOOTING STRAIGHT!
BY CRAIG BODDINGTON | PHOTOS BY MARK FINGAR
 June 2024 | G&A 69

IT WAS 1958 and Dwight “Ike” Eisenhower was denote the year of introduction, as seen in the Win-
in his second term as president of the United chester 1894, while some appear meaningless. You
States. Bobby Fischer, 14, became the U.S. chess can assume they held meaning for the manufacturer
champion. Pizza Hut was founded in Wichita, Kan- and were probably long-argued at conference tables.
sas, and Private Elvis Presley was inducted into the The Savage Model 110 was named for its intro-
U.S. Army. Robert E. “Pete” Petersen added Guns ductory suggested retail price: $109.95. It was
& Ammo to his growing publishing company, and a great price for a bolt-action centerfire in 1958.
Savage Arms of Westfield, Massachusetts, intro- Yes, 65 years later prices have gone up a bit, but
duced a new bolt-action rifle: The Model 110. the Savage 110 remains one of the great bargains
Model designations are often confusing. Many in the world of sporting rifles.
70 G&A | June 2024 | THE SAVAGE 110

A PRODUCTION MARATHONER
The Savage 110 was designed
by Nicholas L. Brewer. Four
patents were assigned posthu-
mously to him between 1961
and ’64. Initial chamberings
were, naturally, .270 Win-
chester and .30-’06. A year
later, a short-action version
was introduced, chambered
for .243 and .308 Winchester.
Of particular interest —
at least to this southpaw
scribe — the Savage 110
became the first production
bolt-action to be offered in After two years of development, Nicholas Brewer’s patent application for a “bolt-action rifle with
a mirror-image left-hand gas-deflecting means” was submitted on November 20, 1958. It was granted October 24, 1961.
action (1959).
The Savage Model 110 has remained in production it had a terrific reputation for accuracy, something that I
since 1958, which makes it America’s longest contin- thought was understated. I knew that I could rebuild the
uously produced bolt action, exceeding Winchester’s business initially on price advantage alone for a little while,
Model 70 (1936) due to breaks in its production. It but what I really needed to do was emphasize the accuracy
also exceeded the Remington Model 700 (1962). That to make us stand out and advance our market position.”
the 110 has remained — and still is — in production is Coburn pulled it off, focusing production solely on the
almost a miracle. 110. The great American brand founded by Arthur W.
It’s a matter of public record that, in 1988, when the Savage in 1894 survived and prospered under Coburn’s
Model 110 was turning 30, Savage Arms was in trou- 25-year leadership. In 2013, Coburn retired and Savage
ble. Savage was in bankruptcy and the situation looked was acquired by ATK, now Vista Outdoor. Savage Arms
hopeless. A new hero rode into town by the name of Ron remains headquartered in Westfield, and rollmarks on cur-
Coburn. Originally from Northern Ireland, his leadership rent 110s state “WESTFIELD, MA”, as they have since ’58.
and determination saved Savage. Coburn served as CEO
from 1988 to 2013. CONCEPT & OPERATION
As Coburn himself put it, “I took all the costs I could Though it took a long time for Savage’s manufacturing
out of the company, and I went from 11 product lines challenges to become overwhelming, the signs had already
down to one. I picked the Model 110 because it was been present. In 1958, Savage’s flagship was the Model 99
the only one out of the 11 that was reasonably tooled. lever action. Some might argue that even then the popu-
Fixtures and gauges were in place. All the other products larity of the lever action was passing, but a larger problem
were in dismal condition as far as the machinery, tooling was that the great Savage 99 was expensive and compli-
and fixtures went. cated to make and assemble, requiring a lot of hand-fitting
“The other thing I liked about the Model 110 was that and trial and error. The Model 110 was designed to be
 THE SAVAGE 110 | June 2024 | G&A 71

The Model 110 bolt features dual opposing locking lugs. Behind The Model 110 offers an easy-to-lift bolt and smooth cycling.
the lugs is a rotating forward baffle that prevents binding. With two bolt lugs, the handle easily lifts 90 degrees.

simple and economical for the introduction of the

both manufacturers and AccuTrigger. The 2003
consumers. From the start, patent describes a “Trigger
smaller parts were stamp- Assembly Having A Sec-
ings or investment-cast, ondary Sear.” The Accu-
and the 110 was designed Trigger is easily adjustable.
to be easy to assemble into Its vertical “skeleton plate”
an accurate platform. in the center of the trigger
With its push-feed serves as a secondary safety.
action, the rifle’s bolt looks The sear can’t drop, and the
like a Mauser clone with trigger squeeze doesn’t start
two dual-opposing locking until the plate is depressed
lugs — but there are differ- flush with the trigger. The
ences. Behind the locking AccuTrigger has always
lug is a rotating forward been crisp and clean, and is
Boddington’s first Savage Model 110 was a walnut-stocked
baffle, serving primarily as example in 7mm Remington Magnum. The first animal taken with simple to tune.
an anti-bind device. There it was a caribou in Northwest Territories in 1980. For many years, the
is also a rotating rear baffle bolt-release lever was on
ahead of the bolt handle, functioning as a gas shield. Pur- the side of the action ahead of the bolt handle. Today, the
ists argue that these add up to a lot of parts, but the bolt is bolt release is in the forward bow of the triggerguard. To
simple to make, and it works. remove the bolt from the receiver, simultaneously press the
Since the forward bolt head is replaceable, the Savage lever rearward and depress the trigger. I find this easiest to
Model 110 can be rebarreled and the bolt head exchanged do with the first two fingers of one hand.
for a bolt face of a different case-head diameter. The Unlike most bolt-actions wherein the barrel is screwed
extractor is a broad hook on a locking lug. into the receiver, the Savage Model 110 secures the barrel
From the beginning, the 110’s safety has been a three- to the action with a large lock nut, visible just ahead of the
position, tang-mounted sliding lever. Forward is “fire”, rear forward receiver ring. It’s still done that way, but histori-
is “safe” with the bolt locked. There is also an intermedi- cally the lock nut was knurled and, well, that was not very
ate position where the rifle is “on safe,” but with the bolt attractive. Today, the lock-nut is smooth. In my view, that
unlocked. The basics have never changed, but there have change greatly enhanced the lines of the rifle.
been significant updates these last 65-plus years.
Initially — as indicated on one of Brewer’s patents — the MANY VARIATIONS
mechanical ejector was part of the internal box magazine. Seemingly endless (and somewhat confusing), the Savage
In 1966, this was changed to a spring-loaded ejector on 110 has been chambered in an array of cartridges from
the bolt face. This allowed the introduction of a detachable .204 Ruger to .338 Winchester Magnum, with some exper-
box magazine, which is now standard. For many years, imental rifles in .375 H&H and larger. Savage was early
there was also a hinged floorplate version. That same year, to the game with both stainless steel and synthetic stock
1966, Savage introduced the rifle’s first adjustable trigger. models, and was a leader in offering “package” rifles that
One of the more significant changes came in 2003 with included mounted scopes. Now comes the confusing part.
72 G&A | June 2024 | THE SAVAGE 110

A vintage hydraulic press is used to achieve perfect barrel Barrel marks and machining scars are removed by hand using
straightness, a task left to skilled human experience. industrial polishing wheels. The resulting finish is flawless.

In 1998, Savage started a new numbering system.

Variants became 111, 112, 114, 116 and more. The short
actions became double digits, as in the Model 10, 11, 12,
and so on. I am not a conspiracy theorist, but I wonder if
this came from long-time Savage employees accustomed
to the alphabet soup that the many Savage 99 variants
had become. I won’t attempt to describe the differences
in the numbers, but they are for action length, stainless,
synthetic, barrel and more. Please accept that all are based
around the Savage 110 action, however numbered.
Honestly, I couldn’t recall the numerical designations
of some of the Savage 110s that I’ve owned and used, but
I remember them well. My first Savage 110 was acquired
in 1978. It was my first rifle chambered to 7mm Reming- Once threaded, a precision machined barrel nut and lug is
ton Magnum, and it was my first left-hand action rifle. installed to each Savage barrel before it is joined with the action.
Like most lefties, I grew
up shooting right-handed extremely cold. I was think-
bolt guns, reaching over ing, “Do I really have to use
the top to work the action. that scope?” At the range,
That Savage 110 changed the rifle shot okay, but
my thinking and, truly, my it didn’t like some of my
life. Since then, all of my favorite handloads. I tried
personal rifles have been this and that, and finally
left-hand actions. In those landed on Federal Premium
days, factory synthetic with 180-grain Barnes
stocks didn’t exist, but bullets. Behold, it pro-
that Savage 110, with an duced genuine quarter-inch
aftermarket Chet Brown groups out of the box. A
stock, also became the first few days later, I crept over
rifle I ever owned with a Boddington shot this elk on a late-season hunt during minus-20- a frozen ridge at minus-20
degree temperatures. The rifle used was a Savage 110 Weather
synthetic stock. Warrior model in .30-’06, complete with mounts and scope. The degrees Fahrenheit and
Some 110s that came bull dropped to a 180-grain Barnes bullet loaded by Federal. pole-axed a nice bull on the
through my hands were edge of a big herd.
varmint rifles, others were standard hunting rifles in vari-
ous calibers. I recall a Weather Warrior .30-’06 in stainless PART 2
and synthetic. It was a package rifle with a scope mounted Vista Outdoor sold Savage Arms in 2019 to investors,
in Weaver-type rings and bases. Okay, it was an inexpen- including employees, led by Al Kasper, who managed the
sive scope, but the price was great. company for decades and retired in 2023. Chris Bezzina is
We were filming an elk hunt for an episode of “Peters- the current CEO. Next time, I’ll review new models, how
en’s Hunting Adventures.” It was a late-season hunt and the 110 is made, and how they get them so accurate.
74 G&A | June 2024

2024 SHOT SHOW

NEW PRODUCT
PREMIERE
LAS VEGAS WAS PACKED AS THE INDUSTRY ROLLED
OUT ITS OFFERINGS TO MEET NEW TRENDS.
STAFF REPORT

NEARLY 14 MILES of aisles were lined with exhibitor Guns & Ammo’s staff was scattered throughout the show
booths and demonstrations at the 46th Shooting, Hunting, floor, monitoring the latest industry developments. The
and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show, which was filled with Outdoor Sportsman Group (OSG) editorial staff, including
manufacturers’ representatives, dealers, distributors, exec- titles such as Guns & Ammo, Firearms News, Handguns,
utives and media. From Tuesday, January 23, to Friday, Rifleshooter, Shooting Times, Petersen’s Hunting, and others,
January 26, 2024, just more than 55,000 people visited developed plans for coverage while each brand’s digital team
the annual gathering in Las Vegas to explore new firearm- fed OSG’s various social media accounts, including live SHOT
related reveals, a National Shooting Sports Foundation Show updates. To view SHOT Show-related video coverage,
(NSSF) event that broke the previous attendee record. visit gunsandammo.com. What follows are the highlights.

SMITH & WESSON MODEL 1854, .44 MAG., MSRP: $1,279

SMITH & WESSON

smith-wesson.com
In 2023, Smith & Wesson introduced ever, is a magazine well that accepts
the Response pistol caliber carbine SIG Sauer P320 mags.
(PCC), an AR-styled platform designed Announced in Guns & Ammo’s wears the ergonomics of familiar
to run using commonly available April 2024 issue, the Model 1854 in pistol-caliber lever-actions. To maxi-
semiautomatic pistol magazines. A .44 Magnum proved to be an absolute mize its utility, though, the polymer
direct-blowback action powers the show stunner and kept traffic flowing furniture and stainless finish provide
Response models, but what sets it through Smith & Wesson’s booth. all-weather durability while an optic
apart from most PCCs is the inter- Drawing inspiration (and name) from rail and flat-faced trigger account for
changeable magazine well. Mag wells Horace Smith and Dan Wesson’s early modern tastes. As a new platform
are easy to swap with this gun, and patents and Volcanic lever-action for the brand that’s now manufactur-
the Response includes both the option firearms, the Model 1854 combines ing firearms in Tennessee, this rifle
to feed from M&P and Glock-pattern an all-new design, modern materials indicates a healthy future for one of
9mm magazines. New for 2024, how- and manufacturing for a rifle that America’s most iconic brands.
 June 2024 | G&A 75

BALLISTIC ADVANTAGE STREAMLIGHT

BARRELS streamlight.com
ballisticadvantage.com
Ballistic Advantage is options for lights
a Florida-based barrel
maker that engineers and as storage. The
manufacturers top-quality TLR-7 line of
barrels for major firearm pistol-mounted
manufacturers, small-shop lights received
gunsmiths and us, the the “X” and “USB”
commercial end user. Bal- designations,
listic Advantage pioneered which indicate that
profiled barrel blanks they now have increased brightness and can be charged
and experimented with a using a USB cable. The TLR-7 was introduced in 2018
barrel’s mass and contour to and became an instant success for its versatility across
determine the perfect com- popular compact carry gun platforms and overall value.
bination of features for the This series has also expanded to include the TLR-9 for
best performance. Looking larger-frame pistols with longer accessory rails.
forward, Ballistic Advan- With government agendas pushing for safe-storage
tage indicated that they are mandates throughout the U.S., Streamlight also responded
working on a weight-saving with the Speedlocker. Speedlocker provides fast, direct
carbon-fiber barrel and will access to a firearm for those interested in safe-storage
stay ahead of new chamber- products. It is a portable safe with a carry handle to
ings such as barrels for the increase mobility, and its mechanical keyboard can be
8.6 Blackout. Additionally, operated with one hand. Richard Nance reviewed the
custom Glock barrels are Speedlocker in G&A’s January 2024 “Gun Tech” column,
now available. making note of both its portability and ease of access.

ARMSCOR/ROCK ISLAND ARMORY WATCHTOWER FIREARMS

armscor.com watchtowerfirearms.com
Armscor and the Rock Island Armory (RIA) brand of Many new companies appeared at the 2024 SHOT Show,
handguns have branched from its popular 1911-based but the standout was Watchtower Firearms. Stemming
models with innovative designs. First, the striker-fired from the purchase of F1 Firearms, new ownership quickly
STK100 in 2021 featuring an aluminum frame and Glock capitalized on its strengths to develop the Apache, a cus-
magazine compatibility. Then, tom, double-stack Model 1911 recently
evaluated by Handgun Editor Jim Tarr
$1,988

for Guns & Ammo’s May 2024 issue.

The team is packed with talent and
guided by a proven group of executives
WATCHTOWER APACHE, 9MM, MSRP: $3,990

with military experience and leader-

ship at the highest levels. Note the
naming convention of its brand and
firearm products refer back to military
operations to pay homage to American
military history. Watchtower Firearms
aims to be the next great
American firearms manu-
facturer, one that is entirely
owned and operated by
Americans, made in America
using American-made com-
ponents and services.
76 G&A | June 2024 | 2024 shot show new product premiere

STAG ARMS PURSUIT, MULTI CAL., MSRP: $1,900

STAG ARMS
stagarms.com
Stag Arms continues to cater to the
hunting crowd with purpose-built AR stylish, but it also protects the hand
and bolt-action rifles optimized for from the cold steel and deadens the
that purpose. The Pursuit AR Pro is sound that can occur when resting the accept both .223 Remington and 5.56
new and incorporates leather into the handguard on a blind or the rail of a NATO cartridges — as well as .350
cheek pieces, as well as a leather wrap stand. It is available in .223 Wylde — Legend for the dedicated deer hunter
on the handguard. It not only looks meaning that the match chamber will in straight-wall-only states.

WARNE SCOPE MOUNTS

warnescopemounts.com
Warne Scope Mounts unveiled several
new red-dot riser mounts. One of the
challenges experienced when mounting
a red dot to some long guns is achiev-
ing the optimal height setting. These
mounts include spacers to adjust the
height to fit any individual’s preference.
Warne also introduced a universal rib
WARNE 6106M RED-DOT RISER, MSRP: $105 WARNE 7912M SKYLINE LITE BIPOD, ARCA INTERFACE, MSRP: $280
mount to attach red dots to shotgun
ribs. Many turkey shotguns don’t fea- its popular line of Skyline bipods to 45-, and 90-degree leg positions. The
ture an optic rail, so this mount gives include the new Skyline Lite with universal-type head accepts multi-
hunters and clay shooters access to the three different options for ARCA, ple mounting configurations, and
entire rib on a shotgun for mounting a Picatinny rail and quick-detach it is built from premium aluminum
reflex sight. Hunting turkey with a red- (QD) rail mounting. The Skyline and steel materials. The Skyline Lite
dot sight can be a game changer. Lite bipods feature 13 micro adjust- bipods offer all the modern features
Warne Scope Mounts upgraded ments to fine-tune rifle height: 0-, expected while keeping weight low.

FN
fnamerica.com
Every year is a busy year for
FN, and 2024 is no differ-
ent. The FN 509 pistols
received factory compensa-
tors for its barrels, for exam-
ple. FN will also offer barrel
and compensator accessory
packages so existing owners
of a 509 pistol can incorpo-
rate the update, as well.
FN is also pressing forward
with its suppressor line. The
FN team was eager to talk
tech, and there was a lot of it
engineered into the Rush Ti
suppressor design. New for
2024 is a can for rimfires, the
FN Catch 22 suppressor.
FN 509 TACTICAL FDE, 9MM, MSRP: $1,104
 Ed Brown Fueled® M&P®’s feature our exclusive
CUSTOM ACCURACY RAIL to perfectly mate the slide
and the barrel surfaces for improved lockup and accuracy

edbrown.com
78 G&A | June 2024 | 2024 shot show new product premiere

$419

$879

winchester.com
winchesterguns.com
The resurgence of lever-action rifles which is clad in TrueTimber Midnight in terms of power. Best of all, the .400
continues, and Winchester Repeating camo and available for left-hand use. Legend produces less felt recoil than
Arms has brought back the Ranger Straight-wall shooters rejoiced as the .450 Bushmaster. Field Editor
name in the form of a .22 LR lever- another cartridge was announced: Craig Boddington reviewed this new
action. It proved that it was great fun .400 Legend. Not content with the cartridge during a Kansas deer hunt.
to shoot at the SHOT Show Media Day success of the .350 Legend, Win- Boddington’s impressions were pub-
at the Range on Monday, January 23, chester developed the .400 Legend, lished in Guns & Ammo’s May 2024
2024. Winchester also revealed a new which bridges the gap between the issue. There were no problems in
variant of the XPR Extreme bolt action, .350 Legend and the .450 Bushmaster finding success with the .400.

READY. AIM. PLINK!

®

UMAREXAIRGUNS.COM
© 2023 UMAREX USA, INC.

*All trademarks used under license.

PX9 CARRY
80 G&A June 2024

PR O OF H O U S E Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 10mm M2.0

MORE POWER!
TEN-MILLIMETER PISTOLS are more popular than parts and features not found with other models. The
ever. Nearly every firearm manufacturer offers at least Performance Center M&P10 M2.0 was designed on the
one handgun chambered in this interesting caliber. large-frame M&P, and sized up to support cartridges
Smith & Wesson, however, released a pistol just as closer in size to the .45 ACP. For 2024, there are two
interesting as the cartridge: A 5.6-inch 10mm M&P standard M&P 10mm models with 4- and 4.6-inch bar-
longslide from the Performance Center. rels. These pistols received a few additional exclusive
The Performance Center is S&W’s in-house custom features.
shop. Generally, this does not involve gunsmithing. The biggest visual difference between the Perfor-
Rather, the team upgrades firearms with enhanced mance Center’s M&P10 and standard M&P10 models
 June 2024 G&A 81

Stainless-steel double-stack magazines accommodate 15 rounds A loaded chamber port The end of the barrel is
of 10mm. The dimensions required the M&P10 M2.0 frame be appears at the top of the shrouded by a vented slide
made larger. The frame features grip support and large magwell. slide and barrel. When a extension that mimics the
round is loaded, the user appearance of a compensa-
is able to see the rim of the tor. The suppressor-height
catridge under the barrel front sight co-witnesses with
hood. popular red-dot optics.

SMITH & WESSON

PERFORMANCE CENTER
M&P10 M2.0
Striker fired, recoil operated,
TYPE
semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE 10mm
CAPACITY 15+1 rds.
BARREL 5.6 in., stainless, ported, 1:10-in. twist
OVERALL LENGTH 8.6 in.
HEIGHT 5.6 in.
WIDTH 1.3 in.
WEIGHT 1 lb., 15.4 oz.
is the longer barrel and slide assembly. The barrel of SLIDE Stainless steel, Armornite finish
the Performance Center M&P10 was stretched to 5.6 FRAME Polymer, textured, stainless chassis
inches and ported. Two oval ports were cut into the SAFETY
Thumb safety, internal striker
drop safety, trigger safety lever
top of the barrel, parallel with the muzzle. These vent
SIGHTS 3-dot night sights, optics ready
through a faux compensator milled into the slide. The
PHOTOS: MICHAEL ANSCHUETZ

TRIGGER 4 lbs., 12 oz. (tested), flat-face M2.0

extended slide also has slots milled into it, exposing
Two 15-round magazines, optic
the barrel, two on the top and three on either side. ACCESSORIES mounting plates, four backstraps,
Only the top two are functional; the ones on the cable lock, lockable hard case
sides are just for looks. MSRP $749
Smith & Wesson, 800-331-0852,
MANUFACTURER
smith-wesson.com
82 G&A | June 2024 | SMITH & WESSON PERFORMANCE CENTER M&P 10MM

The Performance Center M&P 10mm is only

available with a manual ambi thumb safety.
Other controls are serrated and low profile.

Between the long barrel, tall sights,

and full-size grip, this is a full-size
gun. The PC M&P 10mm measures
8.6-inches long, 5.6-inches tall,
Interchangeable backstraps feature the
1.3-inches wide, and weighs 31.4 aggressive M2.0 texture. Palmswells support
ounces. This pistol arrives with two four different grip profiles.
flush-fit 15-round stainless-steel mag-
azines. Currently, every 10mm M&P inside the polymer frame, extending
from Smith & Wesson — not just this to the railed dustcover. The M&P
model — is optic-ready. It features a 10mm carries all of the improvements
bilateral thumb safety lever and sup- developed for the second-generation,
pressor-height sights that will co-wit- known as the “M2.0,” introduced in
ness with most red-dot optics. G&A’s March 2017 issue. The trig-
Both the barrel and slide of the ger was enhanced from the original
pistol are made from stainless steel M&Ps from 61/2 to 51/2 pounds, and a
and given an Armornite finish, S&W’s tactile reset was added. The magazine
nitride formula. On the left side of the release was made reversible, but most
slide, the model details are written notable was the M2.0 texture. It is
out: “M&P 10MM”, “Performance nearly as aggressive as hand stippling.
Center”, and “M2.0”, the latter S&W added a fourth (medium-large)
indicating this pistol is based on the backstrap to the “S,” “M,” and “L”
second-generation M&P. offerings, and eliminated the beaver-
Smith & Wesson introduced the tail on the back of the frame. Serra-
M&P pistol on the cover of Guns & tions were added to the front of the
Ammo’s December 2005 issue. The slide, as well.
“M&P” (Military and Police) moniker The chassis inside the polymer
was revived for these autos as a nod frame is much longer on the 2.0 than
to the brand’s history, which included the original M&P, and it, too, wears
M&P revolvers from 1899 to 1945. an Armornite finish. The original
Modern M&P pistols paired a striker- chassis didn’t extend past the front of
fired action with a polymer frame. The the triggerguard, which allowed flex.
slide rides on a stainless-steel chassis The M2.0 doesn’t flex if pressure is
 84 G&A | June 2024 | SMITH & WESSON PERFORMANCE CENTER M&P 10MM

The three slot rail accepts even large pistol Performance Center trigger safeties collapse
lights and laser devices. Within the polymer when pressed to a flat-face. When pressed,
frame and rail is a stainless-steel chassis. the trigger breaks at nearly 90 degrees.
PUT YOUR
ATV TO applied to it, or if you attach a light or
laser to the rail.
a straight face that releases close to
90 degrees.
WORK! With the original M&P, the laser-en-
graved serial number was on the side,
Performance Center engineers
replaced the original safety plunger
so a window was slotted into the in the slide with one designed to
polymer at the rear. With an extended smooth out the trigger’s travel.
chassis, the M2.0 models located the Instead of a near-square profile with
serial number on the chassis within radius edges, the plunger is nearly
the dustcover’s rail, visual proof the round on the M&P 10mm. Replacing
We’ve got a full line of professional chassis extends much further. the plunger improved the trigger
grade attachments for your ATV
Performance Center models are
including; mowers, tillers, trailers,
graders, cultivators, and more.
known for having improved details,
such as triggers. The M&P 10mm is no
different. Inside the M&P 10mm is an
improved Performance Center sear, as
well as a redesigned plunger safety.
The combination of the two provides
Visit DRPower.com/ATV a better-than-standard trigger pull
Tritium inserts make the sights useful in
today to shop or request a that tested at 43/4 pounds. The trigger low-light. They are tall enough for co-
free catalog today! shoe is made of polymer, and features witnessing with many slide-mounted optics.

Free Shipping on orders over $100

 SMITH & WESSON PERFORMANCE CENTER M&P 10MM M2.0 | June 2024 | G&A 85

as if it were one of the adapter/spacer plates

aftermarket upgrades with accompanying
available for striker-fired screws to fit nearly every
guns. However, replac- type of pistol optic there
ing the plunger on an is to the slide, includ-
M&P requires one to ing Trijicon RMR/SRO,
remove the rear sight. Docter, Vortex Venom,
Getting the Performance Burris FastFire, C-More
Center M&P 10mm STS, and so on. Depend-
saves some of us from ing on the height of the
having to modify it later. optic, though, you might
This PC M&P 10mm is not have full view of the
offered with night sights. standard sights through
There are tritium inserts the window.
in the front and rear Inside the slide
sights. In daylight, you Then Smith & Wesson C.O.R.E. system includes seven polymer adapter and is a single flat-wire
can see the three white spacer plates, supporting the majority of available optic-mounting solutions. recoil spring around a
rings on the sights, and stainless-steel guiderod.
in low light the glowing power of tritium inserts supple- The spring is not unduly strong, so those who have dexter-
ments aiming. ity issues shouldn’t struggle with racking the slide.
Those interested will likely want to mount an optic, At the rear of the frame is an ambidextrous thumb safety
which this package allows. The Competition Optic Ready lever. It’s operation will be familiar to anyone who has
Equipment (C.O.R.E.) feature provides the option of mount- used a 1911; it pivots at the rear, up for safe, down to fire.
ing a red dot to the rear of the slide. As it comes from the Unlike a 1911, though, the M&P’s safety can be engaged
factory, there is a polymer plate on the slide covering the whether or not the striker is cocked.
mounting area. Smith & Wesson provides seven polymer One of the peculiarities of the M&P is the slide stop

Exceeding the expectations and gaining the trust of

the world’s most discerning customers
for over 30 years.

LEARN MORE

Nightforce is a registered trademark of Nightforce Optics, Inc.

© 2024 Nightforce Optics, Inc. All rights reserved.
86 G&A | June 2024 | SMITH & WESSON PERFORMANCE CENTER M&P 10MM

PERFORMANCE
.40 M&P pistols.
BEST AVG.
VEL. GROUP GROUP Designed in the
LOAD (FPS) ES SD
(IN.) (IN.)
1980s, the 10mm
Auto was intended to
become the “ultimate”
self-defense cartridge,
providing the best
Notes: Accuracy is the average of four five-shot groups at 25 yards from a
sandbag rest. Velocity is the average of 10 shots measured with an Oehler balance of power and
Model 35P set at 12 feet from the muzzle.
magazine capacity. It is
the same overall length
lever. You can push up on either side as a .45 ACP, a long straight cartridge
of the lever to lock the slide back, but with a large primer at the back and
pushing down on the right-side does a .40-caliber bullet at the front. The
nothing. If you want to drop the slide, original 10mm loads from Norma
only the left-side lever works for that. were very powerful, though. The 200-
What looks and acts like a minimal grain bullet was loaded at 1,200 feet
magazine guide at the bottom of the per second (fps), and 180s at 1,300
frame — a small wedge of plastic — is fps. Most modern 10mm loads aren’t
actually the base of the “frame tool,” quite so beastly, but you’ll still under-
which holds the backstrap in place. stand why people think the 10mm is
Once the gun is unloaded and the a good choice for defending against
magazine is out, twist the frame tool charging grizzlies.
to get a better grip on it, and pull At the range, the M&P 10mm was
it out the bottom of the gun. The appropriately accurate. The lighter
backstrap then pops right off the rear Performance Center trigger helped
of the gun, base first. Reassembly is in G&A’s staff keep the groups tight,
reverse order. The entire process only and the long barrel provided a small
takes a few seconds, meaning you increase in velocity. The pistol proved
could experiment with grip profiles at completely reliable during testing. It
the range. Sometimes it’s only while was a bit of a handful, but controlla-
shooting that you can determine ble. While we didn’t have an unported
which palmswell works for you. 10mm pistol compare, testing other
The frame of the M&P 10mm pistols has shown porting can reduce
is both longer and wider than the muzzle rise 15 to 20 percent.
M&P9/40 models. There is a longer You’ll pay a little extra for this Per-
reach to the trigger, so you’ll likely formance Center M&P 10mm, but at
prefer one size smaller backstrap on $750 it represents a solid value, and is
this gun than with standard 9mm and quite distinctive.
88 G&A June 2024

PR O OF H O U S E Ruger LC Carbine .45 ACP

PISTOL-CALIBER AWESOME
THE “LC” IN THE RUGER LC Carbine name stands muzzle. Measuring from the top of the receiver to
for “light” and “compact.” The first LC Carbine the bottom of the magazine’s basepad shows this
was chambered in 5.7x28mm, reviewed in Guns & LC Carbine is only 6.3 inches tall without an optic.
Ammo’s April 2023 “Proofhouse” column. The dimin- The LC Carbine runs on a direct-blowback system.
utive centerfire cartridge offers high velocity and The slick two-piece bolt design puts a lot of the
low recoil with 27- to 40-grain bullets. Ruger ran all bolt’s weight above the barrel, too. This places the
the way to the other end of the bullet-weight scale carbine’s balance point near the trigger instead of
with the new-for-2024 variant chambered in .45 ACP. behind the trigger. Spreading the weight across the
Shooters now have an LC Carbine that shoots bullets length of the receiver makes the LC Carbine com-
ranging from 185- to 230-grains in weight. fortable to hold while quickly transitioning from one
The boost in firepower is a welcome addition target to the next. If Ruger had opt’d with the tradi-
to such a short and relatively light package. The tional method of putting all the bolt’s mass behind
LC Carbine in .45 tipped the scales at a svelte 7.1 the breech face, it would have made the LC Carbine
pounds while featuring an extended length of 301/2 much bigger and longer. The .45 ACP generates
inches with the stock extended. Collapsed length is quite a bit more force than the 5.7x28mm, so the
281/2 inches, and folding the stock further reduces decision to manufacture a two-piece bolt and to push
overall length to 221/2 inches. The barrel length is mass forward of the breech and around the barrel
a steady 161/4 inches, including a .578-28 threaded was wise. It’s what allows it to have a slim profile.
 June 2024 G&A 89

Glock 21 magazines feed the LC Car- Ruger Rapid Deploy folding sights are The balance point of the LC Carbine in
bine 13 rounds of .45 ACP. Given the included with the LC Carbine. They are .45 ACP is located just ahead of the trig-
availability of G21 mags, finding spares adjustable for windage and elevation. gerguard. This area also features a rail
should not be an issue. A key feature to They flip up when the release button section, which would be convenient for
the LC Carbine, magazines are loaded is pressed and locked in place when attaching a bipod, flat rest, angled grip,
into the grip as if it were a pistol. pressed down. light, laser, or other accessory.

The optic rail over the receiver is a sep-

arate piece that appears almost seamless
with the rail attached over the handguard.
The serrated charging handle is reversible
for either right- or left-hand use.

RUGER
LC CARBINE
Blowback operated,
TYPE
semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE .45 ACP
CAPACITY 13+1 rds.
BARREL 16.25 in., 1:16-in. twist
OVERALL 30.5 in. (extended),
LENGTH 22.5 in. (folded)
WEIGHT 7 lbs., 2 oz.
STOCK Adj. length of pull; folding
LENGTH OF PULL 12.5 to 14.5 in.
GRIP Textured, polymer
Hardcoat anodized
FINISH
(aluminum)
TRIGGER 4 lbs., 2 oz. (tested)
SIGHTS Flip up, post/aperature
MSRP $1,009
Sturm, Ruger & Co.,
MANUFACTURER
336-949-5200, ruger.com
 90 G&A | June 2024 | RUGER LC CARBINE .45 ACP

Includes Two
SIL
90%ISSU VER
ES!

70
SAVE OVER
(Dates our
choice)

Scarce
American
Classics
• 1916-1947 Liberty Walking Half Dollar –

• 1916-1945 Mercury Dime –

• 1913-1938 Buffalo Nickel –

• 1859-1909 Indian Head Cent –

ONLY
$14.95 SAVE OVER 70%
You’ll also receive a
handpicked trial selection of fascinating
coins from our No-Obligation Coins-on-
Approval Service,

The upper receiver contains a bolt-over-barrel design, giving great balance to the LC Carbine.
The pistol grip location positions the firing hand near the fulcrum of the carbine’s weight.
Mail Coupon Today!
For Faster Service Visit: The 71/2-inch handguard has M-Lok desires. Guns & Ammo’s staff evalu-
www.LittletonCoin.com/Specials slots throughout to mount lights, ated the LC Carbine using a magni-
lasers, foregrips, or bipods. Three fied optic for accuracy testing, and
screws secure the handguard to the red dot sights for function tests. With
receiver. A two-piece section of Pica- optics absent, Ruger’s standard-issue
For New Customers Only
tinny rail combines for a measured polymer flip-up post/aperture sights
✓YES! Please send me the following:
❐
191/2 inches along the top of the hand- are a welcome feature. The front sight
1 4-Coin Collector’s Set $14.95 $14.95
guard and the receiver. This allows for can be adjusted for elevation while
20th Century Type Display Folder $4.95
1 Reprocessed 1943 Steel Cent FREE mounting any type of optic, magnifier the rear sight adjusts for windage.
Shipping FREE or night vision device the shooter The stock folds and can be made to
Sales Tax FREE
TOTAL $

 Check Charge: VISA MC AmEx Disc

Card #: Exp. Date

Name _______________________________________________

Address___________________________________ Apt #______

City ___________________________ State ____ Zip_________

E-Mail _______________________________________________
M-Lok mounting points surround the sides Besides collapsing for length of pull, the
Littleton Coin Company
1309 Mt. Eustis Rd Littleton NH 03561-3737
and angles of the handguard, functioning as stock is hinged on a rail to fold neatly for
both attachment points and ventilation. convenient storage or transporation.
 RUGER LC CARBINE .45 ACP | June 2024 | G&A 91

fold either to the tols, so aftermar-

right or left side. ket magazines
It is adjustable are plentiful.
for length of The LC Car-
pull from 121/2 bine comes set
to 141/2 inches. up for a right-
The receiver handed shooter,
extension inside but the magazine
the stock looks The stock features an adjustable length of pull, from 12 to 141/2 inches. The stock also offers release is revers-
proprietary, but it a sling-cup socket and a vertical slot to thread the rear attachment point of a sling. ible for left-
accepts aftermar- handed shooters.
ket stocks designed for most AR-15s. If the shooter has a There is an ambidextrous thumb-safety lever on the LC
strong stock preference, it will likely fit on the LC Carbine. Carbine that is equally accessible from both sides. The
Additionally, the stock attaches to the back of the receiver bolt release — yes, it locks the bolt to the rear after the
by way of a vertical section of Picatinny rail. Any aftermar- last shot is fired — is also ambidextrous, but the location
ket stock that attaches to a rail can be mounted to the changes based on the right or left side. Right-handed
back of the LC Carbine. If the stock is too girthy, though, shooters will find the most accessible bolt release just
it might not fold flat. Completely removing the stock forward the triggerguard on the right side of the carbine.
exposes a round opening at the back of the receiver, which A quick press with the index finger of the firing hand is all
allows for cleaning the barrel from the breech. it takes to get the bolt into battery. Left-handed shooters
Controls are completely ambidextrous on the LC Car- will either need to use the reversible charging handle to
bine. The charging handle is reversible and can ride on release the bolt, or they’ll need to use the thumb of the
either side of the receiver. There is a polymer handgun- firing hand to hit the release on the left side of the carbine.
like grip frame that attaches to the bottom of the upper Disassembly of the LC Carbine was simple. There is a
receiver. The magazine inserts through the grip, holding 13 captured pin that holds the grip frame to the receiver. Push
rounds. This is the same magazine used with Glock 21 pis- the pin to the side and the grip frame can slide rearward

Our founder hand inspected every round

of ammo he carried as a sworn officer of 38 years.
Thatwas the basis for starting Black Hills Ammunition:
dependability you can trust your life with.

www.black-hills.com

TO LOCATE A DEALER NEAR YOU,

PLEASE CALL 800.568.6625
92 G&A | June 2024 | RUGER LC CARBINE .45 ACP

Ruger’s Secure Action fire-control system combines a protected internal hammer design with
a bladed-safety trigger. The LC Carbine can be disassembled using a provided wrench.

Despite being a carbine, controls are posi- Working the charging handle does not
tioned similarly to a pistol: Trigger safety, require significant effort. The handle, revers-
mag release, bolt release and safety lever. ible to either side, is convenient to use.

about a quarter of an inch. Lift the grip mounting a suppressor is to remove

frame out. It can be cleaned like any the rubber O-ring that sits under the
other striker-fired pistol frame. Pull the thread protector. Leaving it in place
charging handle to the rear and lift can push the mounted suppressor
the rear of the bolt up and out of the off-axis. It’s always preferred to have
receiver. Push forward on the buffer a solid shoulder against which to
assembly and lift it out of the receiver. mount a suppressor. Remove the
The buffer, recoil spring, and guiderod O-ring and thread the suppressor on
are a captured assembly that easily until it seats tightly against the shoul-
lifts out of the carbine. Finally, slide
the forward portion of the bolt rear-
ward and lift it out of the receiver.
Like its predecessor, the LC
Carbine in .45 is ideally suited for
suppressor use. It comes threaded
from the factory and is chambered in
a cartridge that is almost always sub-
sonic. Bullet weights range between
185- and 230 grains for .45 ACP. The
230-grain loads were subsonic, even
The LC Carbine in .45 features a 161/4-inch
when tested in the 161/4-inch barrel. barrel with a .578-28 thread pattern. If sup-
One step to be sure to do prior to pressing it, remove the O-ring to seat it.
 June 2024 | G&A 93

PERFORMANCE
BEST AVG,
VELOCITY GROUP GROUP
LOAD (FPS) ES SD (IN.) (IN.)

Notes: Accuracy is the average of five, five-shot groups at 50 yards. Velocity is the
average of 10 shots recorded by Labradar placed adjacent to the muzzle.

der behind the threads.

Accuracy was good with inexpensive ball ammunition
that Guns & Ammo used for function testing. High-
quality defense ammunition was more
accurate. Also of note, the LC Carbine
can digest a steady diet of +P loads;
those wanting higher velocities can
have it without drawbacks. The LC
Carbine .45 is a great fit for anyone
desiring a slim and compact carbine
chambered in a cartridge capable of
ringing steel out to 100 yards, or for
effective defense inside 100 yards.

The mag release is extended and easy to

reach. G21 magazines readily insert into the
magazine well, which is flared and funneled.
NOTHING
STOPS A DR ®

FIELD AND BRUSH MOWER

• Up to 2X the power of the competition
• Cut 3" thick brush and tall field grass with ease
• Widest selection of deck sizes and features
• Go-anywhere power steering and hydrostatic drive options
• Tow-Behind, Commercial, and NEW Electric models available

USA
ENGINEERED AND BUILT
Assembled in the USA
PRO MAX 34 using domestic and
foreign parts.

Conquer Seasonal Chores with DR¨

Discover the Po Devour Brush Piles wit
of a DR® Trimm a DR® Chipper Shredde
• 5X the power of a handheld • Chip and shred with pow
trimmer to spare
• Trim precisely with-out • Bigger engines that chew
arm fatigue up the competition
• Built USA tough for
• Mow where a bladed smooth, reliable
mower can’t operation
• Toughest trimme
cord available

PR

Do it Right with DR® Power Equipment

Scan the code to visit DRPower.com to shop or request a free catalog!
Toll-free: 800-790-5917 | Free Shipping on orders over $100
C ON N E CT

What’s your shooting budget?

NAME YOUR PRICE

OFTEN, rea submit opinions of
the various ms and accessories
they rea t in Guns & Ammo. The
discuss the performance,
materials and features, but the factor all types of firearms and pricepoints.
mentioned most is usually price. There- Robert “Bob” Hunnicut submitted his
fore, it shouldn’t surprise you to know thorough review of the Cosmi shotgun
that the cost of a firearm (or its ammo) imported by Nighthawk Custom; entry-
is one of the most heavily weighted level models cost more than $20,000!
considerations we make when planning Interested in seeing a roundup of new car- While that was an unusual example for
tridges but don’t want to spend thousands on
an issue. a firearm? Check out G&A’s list of bolt actions G&A, it was interesting and informa-
Those in the market to buy a gun that have proven accurate and affordable. tive. In fact, some readers were willing
tend to set an upper price limit while to spend a premium for that gun,
considering what they want to use the classic bolt-actions to new cartridges which offers quality, uniqueness, and
gun for. Hunting, self-defense, and such as the 6.5 PRC, 6.8 Western, and performance to match the price.
competition all place differently in the .400 Legend. Brad Fitzpatrick essayed Where do you stand on the price
hierarchy of spending, depending on an article on affordable rifles that of your guns? Do you have a different
who you ask. Some of G&A’s most chamber these new rounds for G&A’s budget for various types or uses? We’d
popular articles have featured budget website. love to know! Email your thoughts to
options. Online at gunsandammo. I have had a love-hate relationship gaeditor@outdoorsg.com
com, the recent roundup of micro with the 5.7x28mm, but not due to
defender 9mm handguns under $400 performance. The cartridge is fun TOP COMMENTS
was considered a good start for the to shoot, but it cost nearly a dollar a
fiscally minded who want to pro- round. I hear that quiet ka-ching of
tect themselves. In the January and a cash register each time I pull the
February 2024 issues, Dave Emary trigger. Fortunately, there is an effort
also penned a great two-part piece on in the industry to make the 5.7mm
how to shoot at distance on a budget. more affordable with new handguns,
New and niche cartridges tend to carbines and ammunition driving the
be associated with the high cost of a price-per-round down.
firearm, which can be true. However, For many, not every article needs to
manufacturers have been adapting consider a tight budget. G&A reviews

SOUND OFF
Respond to articles, find community and join the conversation in the Guns & Ammo forums and by engaging with us on social media:
Guns & Ammo Magazine @gunsandammomag @GunsAndAmmoMag gaeditor@outdoorsg.com
 SP E NT CAS ES

Is the VA prohibiting veterans from purchasing

or possessing firearms?

& LOATHING
TO THE U.S. CENSUS BUREAU, there are person is “adjudicated as a mental defective” if, among
some veterans living in America. More than 3 other things, it is determined that he “lacks the mental
served after September 11, 2001, many capacity to contract or manage his own affairs.” What’s
to combat zones in Afghanistan and worse, is that there is no judicial review or credible due
of these men and women returned process under the current VA system. The determination
with seen and unseen, and too many have is more-or-less automatic, and there is no clear-cut path to
taken their own lives. appealing such a decision.
Brown’s Watson Institute We can debate the
for International and Public justification and efficacy of
Affairs estimated that so-called “Red Flag” laws,
30,177 active-duty person- but at least those require a
nel and veterans committed court order. In the situation
suicide between 2001 and with the VA, veterans can
2021. Suicide rates are an be stripped of their Consti-
epidemic among veterans. tutional rights, and not by
According to the Veteran’s mental health professionals
Administration (VA), there or judges, but by unelected
were 6,146 veteran suicides bureaucrats.
in 2020 alone. Suicide was “Every other American
the second leading cause gets that [due process]
of death among veterans benefit, except for the ones
under age 45. who signed up to defend
This is a real problem, one that we as a society should the United States of America,” said Stacey-Rae Simcox,
be working to fix. The good news is that light is being professor of Law and director of the Veterans Legal Clinic
cast on this concern, and some progress has been made. at Stetson University. “That doesn’t make any sense.”
From 2018 to 2020, suicide rates fell by 9.7 percent. Still, Some in Congress have taken exception to the practice.
we can do more to serve veterans. There is one problem Representative Mike Bost (R-IL) has introduced H.R. 705, the
that stands in the way of many veterans who might seek Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act. Sixty-nine of his
professional care: The threat of losing their gun rights for colleagues have signed on as co-sponsors to the bill. This
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) claims. legislation would prohibit the VA from transmitting informa-
Several veteran readers have indicated they avoid the tion to NICS “without the order or finding of a judge, mag-
VA’s claim and examination process that could result in istrate, or other judicial authority of competent jurisdiction
mental health treatment and possibly prevent a number that such beneficiary is a danger to themselves or others.”
of these tragedies. The fear is that the VA will report them In cases of a veteran being a true danger to the community,
to the National Instant Criminal background check System the bill indicates that prohibition may be lawfully applied by
(NICS) without notice, which would eliminate a veteran’s the courts, but an administrator wouldn’t have the authority
ability to purchase or lawfully possess a firearm. to make that decision. Similar legislation has been proposed
Startling about NICS referrals from the VA: First, the before, but none have received serious consideration.
ILLUSTRATION: A. F. BRANCO

referrals are often not the result of a clinical diagnosis. “It is a tragedy and extremely unjust, in my opinion,”
Rather, they are based on a veteran’s ability to manage his Simcox added. Let’s hope that this time, legislation to
or her finances. When such a determination is made by protect veterans’ gun rights gets the attention it deserves.
a VA Disability Claims representative, the administration The VA should be doing everything it can to encourage
invokes the Gun Control Act of 1968. Under that law, a veterans to seek support, and not steer them away.