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Elwood Shelton

Video: BAR Lives Again as the HCAR

Most firearms history buffs and World War II film aficionados will agree, one of the most impressive guns to gain renown from that conflict was the Browning Automatic Rifle.

The unique report of the monstrous light machine gun alone was said to strike fear into the hearts of Axis soldiers. And, for all intents and purposes, the iconic firearm has been given a new lease on life.

Ohio Ordnance Works has come out with an interesting modern take on the nearly century-old M1918. The company introduced the H.C.A.R. (Heavy Counter-Assault Rifle) earlier this year, drawing upon its years of expertise in building semi-automatic versions of the BAR.

In the above video, FPS Russia puts the rifle through its paces with watermelons, old TVs and even a dilapidated washing machine. Beside its ability to wreak havoc, everybody's favorite faux-Russian points to a couple other attractive aspects of the rifle.

First, the weight of the H.C.A.R. is a vast improvement over the rifle it is based off. At first blush, its 11 pounds might not sound like the slimmest rifle to hit the market. But considering the BAR tipped the scales at 19 pounds, it’s light.

The other feature of the rifle talked up in the video is its polite recoil, despite throwing .30-06 rounds down range. Much of this is attributed to the rifle's Surfire Muzzle Break and hydraulic system housed in the buttstock.

Watch the entire video, if you love heavy firepower it’s sure to get you drooling. Then if you need to dry your mouth just take a gander at the present MSRP for the rifle on OOW’s website – a cool $4,699.99.


Gun Digest 2015

Gun Digest 2015, 69th Annual Edition

 

Kahr Arm Expands Value Series with CT380

Kahr Arms has added the CT380, a .380 ACP, to its Value Series.
Kahr Arms has added the CT380, a .380 ACP, to its Value Series.

Concealed carry has been on the march in recent years. And the full realization of the right to bear arms has definitely created a trend in its wake.

Every year, there are more and more smaller, more concealable firearms filling gun shop display cases.

Of course, this should warm the cockles of Justin Moon’s heart. After all, the founder of Kahr Arms originally designed his pistols for concealed carry and as backup guns.

And with the Massachusetts-based manufacturer's newest line of pistols, it appears Kahr Arms plans to continue to embrace the small-is-practical ethos.

The company’s CT line boasts some of the company’s most concealable pistols. And with the final edition to the line, Kahr looks to jump on a couple other concealed-carry trends.

The CT380 is the most recent .380 ACP to hit the market and it walks lockstep with gun companies offering affordable concealed carry options. The gun certainly appears priced to move, with Kahr’s MSRP on the pistol $399.

The new pistol – part of the Kahr Value Series – has the dimensions to make it a runner for being tucked in a waistband or a pocket. The handgun has a 3-inch barrel and measures in at 5.52 inches in overall length, 4.4 inches in height and .75 inches in width.

The polymer-framed pistol also shouldn’t be a burden to carry, weighting in at a manageable 11.44 ounces unloaded. Too boot, it boasts the clean lines that help it avoid getting snagged on clothing on the draw.

Of course, being part of the value line, the CT380 has some cost-saving engineered into it. Kahr, for its part, was very straightforward in its press release about the differences between the new CT380 line and its premium model– the P380:

[T]he CT series has a conventional rifled barrel instead of the match grade polygonal barrel found on Premium model; the CT slide stop lever is MIM (metal-injection-molded) instead of machined; the CT series slide has fewer machining operations, and uses simple engraved markings instead of roll markings; the P380 comes with three magazines and is shipped in a lockable plastic case. The CT Value series comes with one 7 rd. stainless steel magazine and ships in a cardboard box.

The CT380 has the dimensions that make it a grand candidate for a concealed carry pistol.
The CT380 has the dimensions that make it a grand candidate for a concealed carry pistol.

The pistol features drift adjustable white bar-dot combat rear sight and pinned-in polymer front sight. It has a 7+1 capacity. And it has aggressive, yet clean grip texturing.

The CT380 boasts Kahr’s trigger-cocking double-action-only system. Racking the slide partially cocks the striker. Pulling the trigger then rotates a double-lobed cocking cam that does two things: one lobe draws the firing-pin block back, while the other depresses the striker and spring, until it slips the lobe and fires.

The CT line is available in three other calibers – .45 ACP, .40 S&W and 9mm – all with $449 MSRPs.

 


SnagMag concealed carry mag pouch review.

There's no such thing as too much ammo, Snagmag Concealed Magazine Holster

 

ArmaLite Offers Affordable Option with Defensive Sporting Rifle Line

ArmaLite's new family of AR rifles, the affordable Defensive Sporting Rifle series.
ArmaLite's new family of AR rifles, the affordable Defensive Sporting Rifle series.

Looking for a AR-style rifle with all the bells and whistles? ArmaLite might have what you're after with its Defensive Sporting Rifle line.

ArmaLite has always seemed to price its rifles competitively. And it’s a trait the company doesn’t appear ready to jettison anytime soon.

The Illinois manufacturer (subsidiary of Strategic Armory Corps) has introduced a new line of AR-style rifles that has made affordability one of its top features. ArmaLite’s new Defensive Sporting Rifle series adds three new firearms to the company’s catalog, all coming in below the $1,000 mark.

The DSR series includes two AR-15 variants, the DEF15 and DEF 15F, both chambered 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington. And it includes a new AR-10, the DEF10, chambered 7.62 NATO/.308 Winchester.

The new AR-15 models have MSRPs of $699, while the AR-10 comes in at $999. Given a few more bucks will be shaved off by the time these rifles hit the shelves, they should move like hotcakes.

This might especially hold true for the DEF10, considering AR-10s, for the most part, well exceed the $1,000 mark brand new.

Overall, ArmaLite doesn’t appear to have skimped on most features to save money on its new line. All three rifles, however, are flattops, which means shooters will have to outfit them with their own sights or optics.

On the DEF 15F, however, this only means the addition of a rear sight, as the rifle comes outfitted with a standard height fixed front sight. This is, incidentally, the only difference between it and the DEF15.

Tacking on sights and optics should be a snap, given each rifle has a MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny Rail on its upper receiver. The DEF15 and DEF10 also have Picatinny Rails integral with their gas blocks.

The direct-impingement rifles each have 16-inch barrels, double lapped and chrome lined to extend their lifespans. The DEF15 and 15F each have 1:7-inch twist rates, which ArmaLite pegs as ideal for 69- to 80-grain ammunition; the DEF10 has a 1:11.25-inch twist rate, which the company said works well with 150- to 175-grain ammo – 168-grain being the best.

ArmaLite's Defensive Sporting Rifle series includes an larger-caliber AR-10 option – the DEF10.
ArmaLite's Defensive Sporting Rifle series includes an larger-caliber AR-10 option – the DEF10.

The receivers are made of 7075-T6 forged aluminum, helping to keep each rifle a manageable weight. The DEF15 and 15F each come in at 6.35 pounds, while the DEF10 weighs 7.9.

Each of the Defensive Sporting Rifles boast a M4-style collapsible buttstock. This feature gives the DEF15 and 15F variable overall lengths of 32 to 35.25 inches and the DEF10 35 to 38.3.

The line of rifles have a number of features typically left off other affordable lines, including a forward assist, dust cover and brass deflector.

Each of the rifles is sold with a Magpul PMAG, a 20-round version on the DEF10 and a 30-round one on the 15 and 15F. The firearms all, also, are outfitted with flash suppressors and single-stage triggers.

Video: Colt CSR-1516 Review

When you’re competitive, it’s easy to let equipment empty your wallet. Shooting sports are no different.

When it comes to 3-gun competitions and the like, however, it appears Colt has a rifle that performs and pinches pennies in the same breath. Or at least that’s Anette Wachter’s (30CalGal) verdict on the CSR-1516 in the above video.

Wachter should know a thing or two about competitive-grade firearms, given she is part of U.S. National Rifle Team, in addition to being a tactical-rifle and 3-gun competitor.

Right off, Wachter admits she had her doubts about the rifle that is until she got it out of the box. From there, the competitive shooter found the CRS-1516 exceeded all expectations – right down to shooting MOA on her first three shots.

One of the big pluses Wachter touts in the video is the price of a rifle. At less than $1,000 (it's listed with a MSRP of $990 on Colt’s website) the rifle is within the range of most shooters and seems to be a value.

Some of the savings is achieved by the 1516 being fairly spartan when it comes to features. It does not have a dust cover or forward assist, which might cost it a fan here or there. But what it lacks in a few of the perks, it appears to make up for in performance.

Watcher's take, the lightness, managable recoil and snappy trigger make it a fine choice – pegging it as a workhorse AR-style rifle. For someone aiming to protect their home and loved ones or is interested in jumping into competitive shooting the CSR-1516 might be an option.


AR-15 Collection

Ultimate AR-15 Collection

 

New Smith & Wesson M&P22 Compact Launched

Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Compact has all the features of the popular line, squeezed into a petite package.
Smith & Wesson M&P22 Compact has all the features of the popular line, squeezed into a petite package.

The new Smith & Wesson M&P22 Compact looks to have all the features of the popular line, but in .22LR – an ideal training pistol or small game getter.

Yeah, .22-caliber ammunition has been in short supply. But a guy can dream can’t he?

If he did have such flights of fancy, his mind just might wander off and trip over Smith & Wesson’s newest rimfire pistol. The Massachusetts manufacturer recently expanded its flagship line of semiautomatics to include what looks to be a sweet little .22.

The M&P22 Compact boasts the features that have made the tactical/sporting line one of the most popular in the world of polymer pistols. Only, it comes in a package Smith & Wesson pegs at 15-percent smaller than its M&P 9 and 40.

Much of this size reduction is seen in the .22 long-rifle pistol’s weight. Tipping the scales at just under one pound (15.3 ounces), it is nearly 10-ounces lighter than its larger-caliber cousins.

A good deal of the extra weight looks to have been trimmed by the incorporation of an aluminum slide. While the metal wouldn’t be the top choice for a larger caliber, it should function soundly with the lighter recoil of a .22.

The dimensions of the new pistol are very similar to the M&P 9 and 40 Compacts, just a hair smaller in overall length. Some of the idea behind keeping the .22 and its big sibling in the same ballpark in measurements is to give shooters a cheaper firearm to practice with – when there’s ammo to be had – and a larger one to carry for self defense.

Smith & Wesson has also aimed at giving shooters a leg up on the slim picking when it comes to rimfire ammunition. The company is offering 222 rounds of Winchester .22LR ammunition until December 2014 with each purchase of the M&P22 Compact.

The .22 pistol comes with two 10-round magazines and has a 10+1 capacity. It has the potential to win the hearts of lefties and righties, being fully ambidextrous. In this regard, it has a reversible magazine catch and ambidextrous thumb safety.

The pistol is a straight blow-back action with an internal hammer, and has a fixed barrel – which should help it shoot tight groups. And Smith & Wesson has followed the silencer trend by cutting the 3.56-inch, carbon-steel barrel with a 3/8-inchx24 thread, making the pistol suppressor ready.

The handgun is outfitted with a white-dot front sight and two-dot rear. The rear sight is fully adjustable for windage and elevation.

The pistol has a front Picatinny rail under the barrel for swift accessory attachment. It has the same aggressive rear cocking serrations as the rest of the M&P line, as well as similar grip ergonomics and texture.

The pistol appears to be a fairly affordable option with its MSRP $389.

Ruger LCR Now Available in 9mm

The Ruger LCR, now chambered in the ever-popular 9mm Luger.
The Ruger LCR, now chambered in the ever-popular 9mm Luger.

From their simplicity to their reliability, there is a solid case to be made for revolvers as defensive weapons.

Obviously, this is something Ruger has been well aware of, having come out with one of the more popular concealable wheelguns on the market. The LCR's petite dimensions have made it a choice as a primary and secondary handgun for many practicing concealed carry.

Since its introduction in 2009, the line of revolvers has grown to include the most popular calibers for that platform – .38 Special, .357 Magnum and .22 Long Rifle. But the most recent model to join the LCR family is definitely not the first caliber that comes to mind when thinking about a revolver – 9mm Luger.

For most, a 9mm conjures up thoughts of semi-auto pistols, but in recent years more and more manufacturers have come out with revolvers chambered for the round. The introduction of the LCR in 9mm was made, according to a Ruger press release, due to consumer demand.

This makes sense, given the 9mm is among the most popular self-defense calibers presently. Cartridges of the World places it as the most used cartridge in the United States.

The newest LCR retains all the features of the other revolvers in the line.

The double-action-only 9mm, has polymer fire control housing, an aerospace-grade aluminum monolithic frame and an extensively fluted five-round stainless steel cylinder. These features keep the gun a svelte 17.2 ounces.

The gun appears to be designed for comfortable carry from waistband to ankle with a length of 6.5 inches and height of 4.5. The revolver has a 1.875-inch barrel.

While the dimensions of the gun make it a natural for concealment, it potentially could give newer shooters some trouble. Smaller, lighter guns produce more felt recoil, thus control issues. This, however, can be overcome with practice and becoming familiar with the attributes of the firearm.

To combat some of these issues, the LCRs are outfitted with a Hogue Tamer Monogrip. The rubbery grips give a more solid purchase on the handgun, thus more control. And the grips have attributes that help reduce felt recoil. The LCRs are also outfitted with a grip-peg system, which allows grips to be switched out quickly.

Full moon clips are available for the revolver and it comes outfitted with a blade front sight and a U-notch integral rear. As a bonus, the revolver is sold with a soft case. The 9mm is also available in LCRx external hammer model.

The gun is at the high end of the line’s MSRP, ringing in at $599.


Standard Catalog of Ruger.

Standard Catalog of Ruger Firearms

 

Video: Ingenious Oil-Filter Suppressor

The past couple years, there has been no shortage of suppressor-related merchandise to hit the market.

From suppressor-ready rifles to silencers for shotguns, it seems every company wants to make noise with the accessory. But what might be the simplest take on the device to come down the pike could also be one of the coolest.

The Cadiz Gun Work’s Econo Can is little more than an adapter, connecting a firearm to an oil filter. And while it might sound crazy, as the above video shows, it appears to work pretty dang well.

There is definitely a grind-house-movie cool factor in strapping a can with STP on the side to the muzzle of a gun. But there is also a practical reason behind an oil-filter suppressor – cost.

The price of the most affordable manufactured suppressors is effectively doubled due to the $200 NFA tax stamp required to own one. The Econo Can – a registered suppressor with the ATF – still requires the stamp, but retails for only $85 on Cadiz website.

The really neat thing about this dandy little device is it puts a suppressor within reach of any shooter – that's definitely not something to keep quiet about.

Tri-Star Launches Marine Model of Defensive Shotgun

With a nickel finish, the Cobra Marine gives shooters a shotgun that is comfortable on land and water.
With a nickle finish, the Cobra Marine gives shooters a shotgun that is comfortable on land and water.

With a nickel finish, Tri-Star's new defensive shotgun is comfortable on land and water. Boasting a nickel finish on its barrel and receiver, and a nifty spring-loaded pump-action, the Cobra Marine looks to handle trouble on land and water.

Tri-Star Sporting Arms definitely has a hunting bent when it comes to its shotguns. A majority of the importer’s smoothbore catalog is angled at downing fowl of one feather or another.

The Missouri-based company, however, is no stranger when it comes to defensive arms. Tri-Star’s Cobra Tactical Pump Shotguns offer shooters what looks to be an ingenious and affordable line of smoothbores – Turkish in origin.

Recently, the company expanded this line of defensive shotguns with a model likely to strike a cord with those in inclement environments and around saltwater. The Tri-Star Cobra Marine Tactical Pump Shotgun offers shooters all the options of the rest of the line in a corrosive-resistant package.

The primary feature that keeps the synthetically stocked 12-guage in the fight no matter the conditions is a nickel finish on its barrel and receiver. The metal has historically been a popular plating material, given its slow rate of oxidation at room temperature.

Truth be told, the nickel finish also endows the shotgun with a bit of a cool factor, as well.

The new defensive shotgun has an 18.5-inch barrel, which is a new feature to the entire Cobra line; previously, the pump shotguns had slightly longer 20-inch barrels.

Shortening the barrel has made the shotgun more maneuverable, trimming down its overall length to around 41 inches. This should prove to be a solid design modification for the marine model, which has the potential of being called upon in the close quarters of a ship.

The defensive shotgun also has what appears to be an innovative feature designed into the pump-action. The forearm is spring loaded, so simply pulling back on and releasing it cycles the gun.

The shotgun is set up to fire a wide variety of ammunition. It has a 3-inch chamber, accepting both 3- and 2 ¾-inch shells, and any size of shot.

The defensive shotgun also has a number of other notable features.

It has a chrome-lined chamber and barrel for increased lifespan. It is outfitted with a Picatinny rail on the forearm for the quick addition of an accessory. It has a blade front sight and comes with one Beretta-style choke tube.

The defensive shotgun appears to be an affordable option, with an MSRP of $369.

Video: Five Quick and Easy Glock Upgrades

Perhaps one of the biggest selling points of Glocks, at least in recent years, is the amount of aftermarket upgrades available. If you can imagine a way you'd like the Austrian handgun to perform more to your tastes, well, there is probably some company churning some little add on to make it a reality (Patrick Sweeney did a whole chapter on the subject in Glock Deconstructed).

Above is a short video by Scootch00 of a couple quick and easy Glock upgrades. I shan't disclose how he improves his 10mm Glock 20, you'll just have to watch the video to see in full. But overall, they seem to be practical improvements with the potential to make the firearm more user friendly and are fairly simple to install. They're also appear to be affordable upgrades, to boot.

Perhaps best of all, Scootch00 demystifies the process of working on a Glock. He adds all of his upgrades to the pistol in less than 14 minutes, which also includes a good deal of jawing about each new part he adds.


firearms-personal-protection

Firearms for Personal Protection

Get a realistic and common sense approach to concealed carry and other personal protection topics with Firearms for Personal Protection by Joseph von Benedikt. Providing a practical, non-tactical perspective, this comprehensive guide covers essential concepts pertaining to personal-protection gun ownership and use, including concealed carry, good safety and handling practices, nightstand guns, shotguns, carbines, and much more. Stemming from several years of real-world gun carry and use in the Southwest United States, this book provides the knowledge you need with the experience to back it up.

SureFire Releases Refined Version of Weapons Light

With a slimmer head, the new SureFire weapon lights help keep tactical arms highly maneuverable.
With a slimmer head, the new SureFire weapon lights help keep tactical arms highly maneuverable.

Given the amount of doodads available today, it’s easy to go overboard with firearms accessories. But when it comes to outfitting a tactical gun, there are some basics that should be considered.

Quality optics or sights should be the first concern, after which a solid weapons light of some kind is next on the shopping list. (Gun Digest writer David Morelli did a solid write up on just this topic, read it here.)

SureFire has been one of the leaders helping defensive and tactical shooters light up the night. And recently, the California-based manufacturer has initiated a number of refinements to a couple of their popular lights, which appear to make them more user-friendly accessories.

In essences, what SureFire has done to its M600V and M620V Scout Lights is slim them down, making them less burdensome when attached to rail. The big changes, reducing the LED lights’ heads down nearly a ¼ inch in diameter and cutting the weight, nearly 20 percent on the M620V and 23 percent on the M600V.

The weight reduction shaves 1.5 ounces off the lights. It might not sound like much on paper, but lightening the lights has the potential to add up for the weight conscious. And their smaller diameters and reduced profiles make them less likely to snag or bang into an object, thus maintaining a firearm's maneuverability.

The smaller heads have changed the dimensions of the lights, but they do not look to have affected their performance.

The output and runtime of the new LED heads remain the same in both lights, whether they are run in white or infrared. The M600V has a 1.8 hour runtime, while the M620V goes for 1.5 hours. The white light on the Scouts turns out 150 lumens and with IR they have 120 mW of output. They also retaine their weatherproof sealed heads, which make them useful no matter the conditions.

SureFire has slimmed down its Scout weapon lights, but has kept all their popular functions, such as run time, output, pressure pad and thumbscrew clamp.
SureFire has slimmed down its Scout weapon lights, but has kept all their popular functions, such as run time, output, pressure pad and thumbscrew clamp.

SureFire has kept switching from white light to IR as simple on the new Scouts as it was on previous models. Shooters need only twist the self-locking selector ring on the bezel to switch between heads.

The lights are also still constructed from aerospace aluminum, coated with Mil-Spec hard anodizing and boast O-ring and gasket seals for weatherproofing. They can be activated via either a tailcap click switch or an included remote pressure-pad switch, as in earlier models.

They both quickly and securely attach to MIL-STD-1913 rails, though in different fashions. The M600V uses a thumbscrew clamp and the M620V attaches via SureFire's proprietary Swing-Lever clamp. The latter devices also attaches to out-of-spec rails.

The M600V Scout Light has an MSRP of $485, while the M620V retails for $595.


AR-15 Collection

Ultimate AR-15 Collection

 

Photo Gallery: Bolt-Action Rifles for the Value Minded

It’s easy to spend a lot of money on a bolt-action rifle, just go to your local gun store and find out first hand. What is difficult is finding a solid long gun that doesn’t break the bank. Luckily, manufacturers of every stripe are offering excellent entry-level bolt-action rifles at reasonable prices. Here are 10 economical choices ($600 or less) that will get the job done in the field or at the range.

P.S. You can enlarge the images by clicking on them.

[imagebrowser id=429]


gun-digest-2015

Gun Digest 2015, 69th Annual Edition

 

Savage Arms Expands Line of Suppressor-Ready Rifles

Savage Arm's 64-FV-SR is one of three new rifles that come suppressor ready.
Savage Arm's 64-FV-SR is one of three new rifles that come suppressor ready.

With Savage's release of three new suppressor-ready rimfire rifles, the company now has nine firearms that accept silencers.

Hear that? That deaden rifle report is the sound of the growing popularity of suppressors.

The shooting accessory, in recent years, has enjoyed a surge of interest from plinkers and hunters alike. And more and more firearms manufacturers have come out with models ready to accept a can.

Bolt-action rifle specialist Savage Arms has been among the companies to embrace silencers. And recently the Massachusetts gunmaker (owned by ATK) has expanded its suppressor-ready offerings.

Savage added three new rimfire models threaded to accept suppressors, expanding their suppressor-ready catalog to nine firearms in all. New to the lineup are three rifles certain to get varmint hunters making a lot of noise.

The company has introduced two new suppressor-ready bolt-actions in the 93R17 FV-SR and 93 FV-SR. And it has expanded it small semi-automatic collection with the addition of a threaded model of the 64 FV-SR.

The bolt actions offer shooters two potent calibers that work well in conjunction with a suppressor. The 93R17 FV-SR shoots the red-hot 17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire, while the 93 FV-SR eats 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire.

The bolt-action rifles come outfitted with ½-inch, 28-pitch threaded muzzles for quick and easy suppressor installation. To keep the adapter and muzzle crown safe until then, the rifles come with a factory-installed twist-on muzzle protectors.

The bolt-action rifles tip the scales at 5.5-pounds, have overall lengths of 35.25 inches and barrel lengths of 16.5 inches each. Both have heavy fluted barrels for fast heat dissipation to improve accuracy and over-sized bolt handles for fast cycling.

Each rifle comes with a five-round detachable magazine and Savage’s AccuTrigger adjustable trigger system. The system allows the trigger’s pull weight to be adjusted from 1 1/2 pounds to 6 pounds.

In addition to quickly and easily accepting a suppressor, the Savage 93s have a lode of features that should endear the rifles to plinkers and hunters alike.
In addition to quickly and easily accepting a suppressor, the Savage 93s have a load of features that should endear the rifles to plinkers and hunters alike.

The 93R17 FV-SR has a rate of twist of 1-in-9 inches, and the 93 FV-SR has 1-in-16 inches. All three rifles, like all of Savage’s offerings, are button rifled.

The semi-automatic Model 64 FV-SR, a 22 Long Rifle, has the same muzzle-thread specifications as the bolt-actions. It is a tad lighter than the other new models, weighing in at 5 pounds. Its rate of twist of 1-in-16 inches, it has an overall length of 36 inches, and a barrel length of 16.5 inches. It comes equipped with a 10-round detachable magazine.

The rifles appear to be priced to move and leave plenty of extra cash for a suppressor purchase. The 93R17 FV-SR and 93 FV-SR both have MSRPs of $358. The 64 FV-SR comes in at $231.

Military Collectables Hot at RIA’s September Firearms Auction

Outstanding Original World War II Fully Automatic Class III Nazi Krieghoff FG42 Paratrooper Sniper Rifle with the Highly Desirable Rare Accessories Including ZF4 Sniper Scope, Original Mount, Grenade Launcher and Spike Bayonet
Outstanding Original World War II Fully Automatic Class III Nazi Krieghoff FG42 Paratrooper Sniper Rifle with the Highly Desirable Rare Accessories Including ZF4 Sniper Scope, Original Mount, Grenade Launcher and Spike Bayonet

Rock Island Auction Company‘s most recent event continued the Illinois-based auction house's impressive run of jaw-dropping sales in 2014.

RIA finished its Sept. 12-14 firearms auction with $11.6 million in sales. In part, the sky-high numbers were driven by some top-notch innovatory crossing the block, including the Gene Smith Military Collection, the Donald Kotecki Collection, and Part II of the Von Norden Collection. Through it all, there was one area that drew the a majority of the bidders' attention — historical military firearms.

A German Krieghoff FG42 light machine gun with numerous accessories was one of the belles of the ball. The rare select-fire weapon drew attention from around the globe and was finally won with a bid of $299,000.

he Finest Known Historical Bulgarian 7-Shot "Georg Luger" Marked Prototype Baby Luger Semi-Automatic Pistol Documented in "Luger: The Multi-National Pistol"
he Finest Known Historical Bulgarian 7-Shot “Georg Luger” Marked Prototype Baby Luger Semi-Automatic Pistol Documented in “Luger: The Multi-National Pistol”

A couple other lots also proved the desirability of German military firearms as collectables.

An impressive MKb-42(H) — grandfather of the legendary StG-44 — moved at $149,500. Besides its historical importance, the fact the firearm was the only remaining example in private hands also drove its price.

Smashing its high estimate of $95,000, was what was touted as the “finest prototype” of a Baby Luger to roll through the Illinois auction house. The pistol drew a breathtaking final bid of $161,000, more than 40-percent over what was expected.

While some of the top bids came on German firearms, American guns were far from left out in the cold.

A splendid “C Company” Colt Walker drew a winning bid of $161,000, but had plenty to lure bidders to breakout their wallets. The revolver had a rich history, originally from Walker’s own company and had extensive use by other military units.

Another anticipated twosome of Colts were the elaborate matched pair of Cole Agee cattle brand engraved SAA revolvers. Boasting Navajo silver and turquoise grips they smashed their $25,000 high estimate en route to a price of $37,375. It was all topped off with a first year production M1911, with serial number 147, that sold for $51,750.

Historical and Rare Walker's C Company Marked U.S. Contract Colt Walker Model 1847 Revolver
Historical and Rare Walker's C Company Marked U.S. Contract Colt Walker Model 1847 Revolver

Winchester fans also appeared to be out in full force, snatching up models from nearly every era. A Third Model 66 sold for $92,000 and a U.S. Property marked, Vietnam Era USMC Model 70 bested its high estimate by an additional 36-percent.

Wrapping up the final day of the auction were some top-notch Thompson sub-machine guns. A “Chicago Typewriter”, complete with its original FBI case and numerous accessories rattled off a sale of $57,500. While the other Tommy Gun, with a Navy overstamp, sold for $43,125.

The opening day of the auction saw a number of smaller, personal protections arms from the 1830s fly off the block, each well over the expected selling price.

Winchester Third Model 1866 Lever Action Carbine
Winchester Third Model 1866 Lever Action Carbine

Two unmarked cane guns each went for 246- and 184-percent over their high estimates, respectively. And a Remington Dog Head cane gun sold for $6,900 –138-percent over its high estimate.

Also popular from the era were the Marston derringers and palm gun – each sold for 149- and 138-percent over their high estimates. Curiosa arms from that age of developing firearms design also achieved high prices, such as the harmonica pistols each of which sold over their high estimates. The Gyrojet pistol more than doubled its high estimate at $6,325, and the prototype Krnka pistol crossed the block for $13,800.

 


GD_BlueBookBonusPack-500

Blue Book of Gun Values Bonus Pack

In the Blue Book of Gun Values Bonus Pack you get two of the industry's most trusted gun price guides for one great price. For merely the retail price of the 35th Anniversary Edition Blue Book of Gun Values, you also receive The Official Gun Digest Book of Guns & Prices, 9th Edition.

Ruger Continues to Expand Popular American Rifle Line

The Ranch version of Ruger's American Rifle is the most compact model in the line.
The Ranch version of Ruger's American Rifle is the most compact model in the line.

In the day and age semi-automatics seem to rule the roost, there are still companies dedicated to good old bolt-action rifles. Count Ruger among them.

The New Hampshire/Arizona-based manufacturer has had great success offering shooters an economical and accurate bolt-action in its American Rifle line. The line has proven so popular since its introduction in 2011 that Ruger has expanded it almost every year since.

It seems 2014 has been no different.

On the heels of the Predator model release, the company is set to add 11 more firearms to the American Rifle line. The expansion comes with the addition of two new versions — a left-handed configuration and a Ranch model.

Ruger’s southpaw version is nearly identical to the original American Rifle, but with the bolt moved to the port side for easier manipulation by lefties. And the company is giving left-handers an ample selection to choose from with seven different chamberings: .223 Remington, .22-250 Remington, .243 Winchester, 7mm-08 Remington, .308 Winchester, .270 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield.

The Ranch version is a bit more of a break from the rest of the American line, offering shooters what looks to be a handy utility rifle. The version is the shortest in the line, boasting a 16.12” barrel and is offered with the choice of a standard or compact polymer stock. With the standard stock the Ranch Rifle’s overall length of 36”, with the compact it is 34 ¾”.

The Ranch rifle comes in two calibers, 5.56 NATO/.223 and 300 Blackout, two of the most popular AR calibers. This gives the bolt-action the potential of being a solid complementary gun to the ubiquitous semiautomatic. Another feature that could help marry it to an AR, the factory-installed scope rail that allows for quick optic swaps.

The Ranch model comes with a threaded muzzle (1/2-28″ on 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem., 5/8-24″ on 300 BLK.), ready to accept a suppressor. The rifle is outfitted with a thread protector at the factory, keeping the muzzle and threads safe without a silencer.

The rifles include all the features common to the line.

They come outfitted with the Ruger Marksman Adjustable Trigger that offers a crisp release with a pull weight that is user adjustable between 3 and 5 pounds.

Lefties rejoice! Ruger now has a left-handed model of its popular American Rifle.
Lefties rejoice! Ruger now has a left-handed model of its popular American Rifle.

The rifles are outfitted with Ruger's patented Power Bedding System, stainless steel bedding blocks insert-molded into the stock to positively locate the receiver and free-float the barrel.

The barrels are cold hammer-forged, which the company boasts provides MOA accuracy and long-term endurance.

The Ruger American Rifles also have three-lug, 70-degree bolts that provides ample scope clearance and utilizes a full diameter bolt body and dual cocking cams for smooth, easy cycling from the shoulder. They come standard with rotary magazines that fit flush with the stock.

Also, like the rest of the American Rifle line, the firearms are not cost prohibitive. The left-handed version has an MSRP of $449, while the Ranch version is priced at $489

Stag Arms Introduces Pistol-Caliber Carbines

Stag Arms has become the latest manufacturer to embrace pistol-caliber carbines. Above is its Model 9T.
Stag Arms has become the latest manufacturer to embrace pistol-caliber carbines. Above is its Model 9T.

One of the largest AR manufacturers is jumping in the pistol-caliber carbine game, with Stage Arms introducing two new 9mm lines.

There is a certain appeal of having a rifle and handgun chambered for the same round. Heck, the Wild West was tamed – in part – by such a system.

The concept has not been relegated to the dusty streets of Deadwood and Dodge City, either. In the World Wars, U.S. soldiers fed both their 1911 sidearms and Thompson sub-machine guns the same fodder – the celebrated .45 ACP.

And today, there is every imaginable combination of carbine and pistol that can be mated and sustained on the same ammo. Recently, one of the largest AR manufacturers in the nation has embraced this idea – well, at least the rifle end.

Stag Arms released its first pistol-caliber carbine in August, in response to what the company said was overwhelming demand from its customers. And the Connecticut-based company definitely sees a place for its new Model 9 and 9T series of 9mm rifles.

“Compared to the 5.56 cartridge, the 9mm cartridge used in a carbine configuration is the ideal choice for short range (and) self defense use – up to 200 yards due to decreased muzzle blast, decreased muzzle flash, lower recoil, reduced over-penetration, and a heavier bullet,” Stag said, in a press release. “An added benefit is that you can also shoot this rifle at most pistol caliber only indoor ranges.”

The company looks to have put together a fairly slick package for its convenient, close-quarters carbine lines. In particular, Stag appears to have gone the extra mile in tailoring the firearm to the round.

This eye to making a 9mm carbine is especially seen in two areas – the magazine well and action.

Stag designed the mag well specifically for standard Colt 9mm AR magazines, instead of using drop-in blocks to convert a standard 5.56 well. Then, the hammer, magazine catch and buffer are scaled down and tailored for the round. These features, the company claims, produce a tighter performing firearm.

Stag Arms Model 9 pistol-caliber carbine, chambered 9mm, in left-handed configuration.
Stag Arms Model 9 pistol-caliber carbine, chambered 9mm, in left-handed configuration.

The 9 and 9T receivers are both constructed of 7075 T6 Aluminum and have type 3 hard coat anodizing. The upper receiver has a modified ejection port (with dust cover) and brass deflector. It houses a one-piece bolt and carrier, a standard configuration in most pistol-caliber AR-style carbines.

Both carbines boast 16” heavy barrels, button rifling with 1/10 twist, 6-position adjustable butts stocks and come in right- and left-handed configurations. They both also have safety, charging handle, and magazine release functions the same as any AR-15.

Each firearm also comes with A2-style plastic grips and 32-round magazines.

There are a few differences between the rifles, the most drastic being actions. The Model 9 operates off a direct-impingement carbine-length gas systems, while the 9T boasts a blowback operation.

The Model 9 and 9T also have different configurations. The Model 9 has a railed gas block and drop in Diamondhead VRS-T modular handguard with no sights. The Model 9T is the tactical version with a free floating 13.5″ Diamondhead VRS-T modular handguard and aluminum Diamondhead flip up sights for faster target acquisitions. Both rifles will accept the Diamondhead rail sections for customization

The final difference between the carbines is their price. The Model 9 rings up at $990, while the Model 9T at $1,275. This is mid to high range for pistol-caliber carbines.

Stevens’ New Affordable Over-Under Shotgun

Stevens has introduced its new entry-level over-under shotgun, the 555.
Stevens has introduced its new entry-level over-under shotgun, the 555.

Stevens' new 555 offers sports shooters an economical choice in over-under shotguns, without skimping on the features.

If you are a shotgunner, the name Stevens is most likely dear to you.

The gunmaker has earned a special place in many sports shooters’ hearts, because, in many cases, a Stevens was the first smoothbore they owned. Countless youths cut their teeth on hunting and clay shooting with the old Model 94 single barrel.

There are good reasons why Stevens was a perennial choice of parents aiming to pass shooting to the next generation. The Massachusetts manufacturer’s products were affordable and, more importantly, safe.

Stevens latest addition to its catalog looks to continue that tradition.

Of course the Stevens Model 555 – released earlier this year – is a bit more elaborate and expensive than some of its classic models. But the over-under shotgun appears to offer shooters of every age a fairly solid entry-level option.

With an MSRP of $692 for both the 20- and 12-gauge models, there are few shotguns in the world of double-barrels that can compete with the 555’s affordability. Especially with what Stevens has included in the package.

Possibly one of the top features of the shotgun is one of its most clandestine – its trigger operation. The 555 is outfitted with a mechanical trigger, meaning that the trigger being pulled on the first barrel sets it for the second.

This seems to be a particularly advantageous addition, especially for those taking their first foray into double-barreled shotguns. Had Stevens opted for an inertia trigger, which sets the second barrel off the recoil of the first shot, a lot of clays would go unbroken and a lot birds would go off into the wide-blue yonder. All it would take is one misfire.

A more outwardly asset of the 555 is the gun’s stock and forearm. Stevens has stocked the gun in Turkish walnut, giving it a timeless look. The Schnabel forearm – the lip at the front of the forearm – is a nice addition as well, giving a solid tactile reference for hand placement.

The Schnabel forearm also plays into an aspect of the 555 Stevens has touted in its press – the shotgun’s weight. The shaving of the forearm along with an aluminum receiver, scaled to gauge, makes the gun light – the 20-guage tips the scales at 5.5 pounds, the 12 at 6.

Stevens 555 has the classic lines and features of more expensive over-under shotguns.
Stevens 555 has the classic lines and features of more expensive over-under shotguns.

The over-under can shoot 2 ¾” and 3” shells, giving it the ability to handle nearly any task demanded of a sporting shotgun. It has chrome-lined barrels, extending their lifetime. And it features a tang-mounted safety, which allows it to get into the action quickly.

The gun is outfitted with shell extractors, a single-select trigger and comes with five interchangeable choke tubes.

The 12-gauge has a 28” barrel, 14 3/8” length of pull, 44 7/8” overall length and a 2 1/8-inch drop at the comb. The 20-gauge features a 26” barrel, 14 3/8” length of pull, 42 7/8” overall length and 2 ¼” drop at the comb.

There were no reports or reviews of how the Stevens 555 shoots, so it’s difficult to say if the shotgun truly cuts muster. But, if the company has tuned the gun to hit what it’s pointed at, then the brand might still be living up to reputation of providing great value.

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