The .17 HMR is known for its blistering velocities, but it required fine tuning from ammo companies to make the rimfire round dependable when taken afield.
The .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (abbreviated as HMR and sometimes given the nickname “hummer”) is one the most written-about cartridges of all time. In fact, it may even hold the title! We are, it seems, caught up in the velocity craze again, this time in the area of rimfire cartridges.
The word “again” is used because such a craze existed many years ago when Roy Weatherby introduced the line of centerfire cartridges that constitute the Weatherby magnums. With large belted cases and free bored chambers, the velocities produced by the Weatherby magnums are high. As with any other area of human endeavor, there are newer series of cartridges that eclipse the Weatherby magnums in velocity.
In the .17 HMR, a new standard for velocity produced by a rimfire cartridge was established. The case for the .17 HMR cartridge was formed by necking a .22 WMR case to hold a bullet of 0.172-inch diameter. A 17-grain polymer-tipped bullet was driven to a velocity of 2,550 ft/sec. The trajectory of that bullet is considerably less curved than that of any fired from a .22 WMR cartridge.
Small bullets at high velocity expand violently or disintegrate on impact, so reports of the effects of the .17 HMR began to detail dramatic kills on everything from sparrows to coyotes. However, some writers also began to report that, even on groundhogs, the bullets sometimes blew up without penetrating sufficiently to drop the animals on the spot, so they made it back to their holes.
An increasing number of such reports began to appear, and they somehow offset the reports of dramatic one-shot kills on coyotes at over 200 yards. The designers decided that a heavier bullet of different construction would be appropriate, so a load featuring a 20-grain hollowpoint bullet having a velocity of 2,375 ft/sec was produced. Such a load is offered as the CCI Game Point® and the Hornady XTP®. These loads join the 17-grain polymer-tipped loads from Hornady, Federal, CCI, and Remington as well as the 17-grain hollowpoint load from CCI.
With the sharp-pointed bullet at high velocity, the trajectory of the .17 HMR has relatively little curvature for a rimfire, so hits at long ranges are possible. Moreover, the bullets used in .17 HMR ammunition are of the premium “varmint bullet” type, so accuracy of most .17 HMR rifles is outstanding, which also contributes to scoring hits at long ranges.
The bullets are tiny and explosive, so they are suitable for smaller varmint species. Hornady also offers the NTX® load that utilizes a 15.5-grain bullet having a muzzle velocity listed as 2,525 ft/sec. The bullet does not have a lead core, and it is sharply pointed, so it has a remaining velocity of 1,828 ft/sec and energy of 119 ft.-lbs. at a range of 100 yards.
In terms of firearms, the .17 HMR was given a flying start because most firearms, except autoloaders, that could function with a .22 WMR could be altered to .17 caliber by means of a different barrel. Case and rim diameter and rim thickness are the same for both calibers.
The number of firearms chambered for the .17 HMR is very large. The problems with autoloaders chambered in .17 HMR have been solved by several manufacturers, and a new load designated as the A17 has been developed by CCI. It gives a 17-grain polymer-tipped bullet a muzzle velocity of 2,650 feet per second.
Totally American-made, Century’s RAS47 further hones Kalashnikov’s classic design.
If the modern equivalent of the Japanese katana is the AR-15, the AK-47 is a battle-axe. It’s not as precise or refined, but it’s inarguably effective. This metaphorical chopper originally rose to prominence among American shooters with a combination of its near-mythic reliability and its affordable nature. Most shooters who bought one in the last 30 years did so from a single company: Century Arms.
For decades, the Century Arms business model for Avtomats was to import parts kits from military AKMs, then rebuild them stateside with enough U.S. parts to make them 922r compliant. As these rifles became sparser for political and other reasons, their cost increased along with the end product’s price. The budget-priced WASR rifle of the early 21st century quickly rose to the price of an entry-level AR-15.
In response, Century future-proofed its AK carbine sales by moving all production stateside. Thus, the milled C39 was born. Now, Century has used this experience coupled with decades of AK-construction knowhow to develop and produce a 100-percent American-made AKM rifle — one incorporating desirable features, classic aesthetics and the same unequalled reliability that made the rifle famous more than half a century ago.
Enter the RAS47 The RAS47, or Red Army Standard, is a semi-automatic, long-stroke, piston-driven carbine chambered in the AKM standard 7.62x39mm. It feeds from detachable box-type, staggered column AK-47 magazines ranging in capacity from 5 to 100 rounds. The RAS47 ships with two 30-round polymer AK PMAGs made by Magpul. While the most common types are made from steel stampings, they’re also available in polymer, aluminum and even imitation Bakelite.
The RAS47 represents a clear departure from Century’s initial entry into the all-American avtomat market, the C39. Where the C39 is a modernized milled rifle designed to offer shooters not concerned with traditional aesthetics the next evolution of the AK, the RAS47 instead appeals to traditionalists and pragmatists concerned with weight and modularity.
This is why it’s available in two basic configurations: one with traditional blonde wooden furniture and another donned in Magpul polymer furniture. Aside from the furniture, Century’s newest carbine is a Mil-Spec AK carbine. As such, it accepts standard AKM furniture and accessories. By doing so, it opens itself to a tremendous array of aftermarket parts, allowing shooters to configure the Soviet-inspired rifle to suit their needs.
Like all Mil-Spec AKM carbines, the RAS47 uses post-and-notch iron sights. The front post is adjustable for both windage and elevation, while the rear notch features elevation settings ranging from point blank out to 1,000 meters. While somewhat rudimentary, these sights are all but bomb proof, and surprisingly effective at close to medium range.
Another military-grade feature is the Russian-type side rail. This rail allows shooters to mount optics to the carbine using any standard AKM mount or optic. While the number of mounting options available for the AK is somewhat limited by comparison to the ubiquitous AR-15, there are more than enough choices available to suit virtually every occasion. If you’re scratching your head wondering why anyone would mount optics on such an inaccurate rifle, you’re in for a pleasant surprise.
Tales of AKs producing “minute-of-bad-guy” groups are grossly overstated, though older mil-surp AK builds are often unimpressively accurate. In an attempt to remedy this, Century builds its RAS47 with a 4150 Green Mountain black nitrided barrel. The results are incredible.
In testing, the RAS47 proved more accurate than nearly every AK commercially available. In fact, I was capable of regularly engaging 8-inch steel gong targets out to 300 yards with iron sights. When coupled with a 4x Primary Arms optic with 7.62x39mm BDC reticle, 12-inch targets were successfully hit at nearly 500 yards.
The RAS47’s black nitride barrel is lacking one thing though: a bayonet mount. Functionally unimportant to most shooters, purists may find its absence upsetting. It’s one of only four areas where the RAS47 makes a serious departure from Mil-Spec, and arguably the only one that could be interpreted as a downside.
The other non-Mil-Spec areas include the magazine release latch, the safety lever and the pistol grip. The release latch is slightly longer than usual and about three times as wide. This is a definite step up from Mil-Spec, as it allows shooters to more easily remove magazines from the rifle.
In the same vein of improved ergonomics are the safety selector and the pistol grip. The lever features a small square cut that permits it to double as a bolt hold open when engaged, a must at some ranges that require firearms be placed in this condition. The grip is built from polymer and features molded finger grooves and aggressive checkering for better retention. Shooters not enamored with either of these can swap them with Mil-Spec parts or any AKM-compatible replacements.
The same can also be said of furniture. Whereas, in the past, AK owners were limited to either Mil-Spec options or limited offerings from U.S. makers, the current AK aftermarket furniture business is rapidly catching up to the prolific AR-15.
This is so much so that Magpul, the most prolific accessory maker for the AR-15 family of rifles, now also makes furniture and magazines for the AKM. Century clearly understands that this is a popular upgrade to AK carbines, offering the RAS not only with traditional wood but also black polymer Magpul furniture from the factory.
Accurate, modular and modern, the AKM has truly evolved since its introduction more than half a century ago. Thankfully, during this metamorphosis, the engineers at Century haven’t forgotten what made the AK great: reliability. The RAS47 was fed half a dozen varieties of ammo from as many different magazines and ran without issue. The self-regulating ventilated gas tube and robust long-stroke piston action hungrily devoured everything it was fed. This is a rifle a shooter can count on even in the worst of conditions.
The RAS47 is the result of taking a great design and further honing it to a fine point. It may not have the razor-sharp accuracy of the AR-15, but it more than holds its own. Shooters looking for a solid bug-out rifle, an inexpensive plinker or a dependable ranch rifle won’t be let down by Century’s RAS47. Whether adorned in wood or polymer, the RAS provides an affordable, reliable rifle to the masses, something its progenitor sought to accomplish nearly 70 years ago.
Yankee Hill Machine goes for gold with its new burnt bronze Model 57 Specter.
While it has been manufacturing dependable AR-type rifles and parts for the last couple of decades — often for other big name manufacturers and military contracts — Yankee Hill Machine (YHM) introduced the burnt bronze Model 57 Specter in 2015, showing that it’s ready to go for gold.
YHM has developed a reputation for making some of the best AR parts in the industry, and in the mid-90s decided it would produce complete rifle builds distinct to its name and unique style of machine work. In addition to AR-type rifles, YHM manufactures handguards, rail and optic mounts, muzzle devices and suppressors. The Model 57 Specter is a sort of crowning achievement in the company’s line of ARs, with a fitting burnt bronze Cerakote finish to give it that golden look of AR royalty.
The Model 57 was originally introduced in a black finish at the 2014 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, with additions like a new KeyMod-integrated, SLR Slant hanguard and YHM tactical charging handle latch added in 2015. The Model 57 is available in several chamberings, including 5.56 NATO, .300 Blackout and 6.8 SPC II. This review featured the 6.8 SPC, which comes with a 16-inch barrel and 1:10-inch twist. The most eye-catching addition is obviously the industry-standard burnt bronze finish, while the foundation of the rifle is the artfully machined receiver set.
Built for Gold The Model 57 Specter features billet 7075-T6 aluminum receivers that are machined at the company’s Florence, Massachusetts, facility and have matching grooves on the receivers and handguard. Those stylistic grooves run along the sides of the 9.5-inch SLR Slant handguard, on the front of the magazine well and on the sides of the upper receiver.
While billet aluminum receivers are considered to possess slightly less strength than their forged counterparts, they are still tremendously tough. One of the biggest advantages with a billet receiver, however, is the customization that can be applied through machining into the design. And that’s exactly where the YHM Model 57 Specter shines — the lines and grooves crafted into the burnt bronze rifle are head turning, to say the least. Fresh out of the box at the local gun shop, a group of onlookers swarmed around the rifle with oohs and aahs. It was much the same at the range, as other shooters congregated to inquire about the gold-looking AR.
The upper and handguard feature a continuous top rail for plenteous optic mounting options, while Picatinny rail mounts are positioned at the 3, 6 and 9 o’clock positions at the front of the handguard. The handguard also comes pre-equipped with YHM Q.D.S. flip up sights and has a slanted front section to match a Slant muzzle brake. The brake, which is really a brake/compensator hybrid that works to reduce recoil and limit muzzle rise, is an especially nice option for the 6.8 SPC chambering, which carries a bit more punch than the 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem. The forward rail sections are great for accessories, though they do not provide the most ergonomic or comfortable hold for those who prefer a forward grip.
The beauty of the Model 57, however, is that its stunning exterior is equaled by its well-made integral parts. The Specter features a 16-inch barrel in the 6.8 SPC chambering, as well as a 1:10-inch twist. The barrel is heat treated, 4140 steel with YHM’s exclusive ball-cut fluting to improve rigidity and aid in barrel cooling. The barrel is also threaded for various muzzle products, including the standard Slant compensator/muzzle brake.
The rifle also utilizes a two-stage, 5-pound, drop-in trigger that makes it enjoyable to shoot and highly accurate. The aforementioned flip-up sights come stock, as does the tactical charging handle latch and low-profile gas block. The Model 57 comes with a Magpul CTR buttstock and MOE pistol grip, as well as two PMAGS (the 6.8 version comes with two standard metal magazines). The overall weight of the rifles is 7.6 pounds, which makes it well balanced to shoot but light enough to provide added maneuverability.
Range Tested The Model 57 Specter was tested for accuracy with two loads: the 115-grain American Eagle FMJ from Federal Premium and Nosler’s 90-grain Defense Bonded Performance. Accuracy testing was conducted from a bench at 100 yards with Steiner’s uber-impressive M5Xi 3-15x50mm Military optic. Accuracy data was based on five three-shot groups. Close-range target work was also conducted with Trijicon’s RMR and the stock YHM Q.D.S. flip-up sights.
With a rated velocity of 2,675 feet per second (fps), Federal’s American Eagle 115-grain FMJ produced an average group of 1.37 inches and a best group of 1.25 inches. For everyday range work, the American Eagle FMJ is accurate and cost effective, running you about $16 for a box of 20.
The second test load was Nosler’s 90-grain Defense Bonded Performance, which has a rated velocity of 2,840 fps. The best group produced by the 90-grain bullet was 1.10 inches, with an average group of 1.29 inches.
Parting Shots Yankee Hill’s Model 57 Specter is visually appealing and made for long-term reliability. Its components are made in the U.S. and produced by one of the most skilled machine shops in the country. For an upgraded rifle straight out of the box that sets you apart from the crowd, the Model 57 is just the ticket. It comes in all the hot AR-15-platform calibers, including the rising stars like the 6.8 SPC and .300 BLK. And if burnt bronze isn’t your color, you can always go with a Henry Ford classic: black. For a price of $2,635, you do pay more than you would for a bargain basement build, but you also get a lot more, too.
Specifications:
YHM Model 57 Specter Burnt Bronze Type: Semi-auto, direct gas impingement, carbine-length gas system Caliber: 6.8 SPC Barrel: 16 in., 1:10 twist Weight: 7.6 lbs. Handguard: SLR-Slant 9.5 in. Stock: Magpul CTR Grip: Magpul MOE Trigger: Two-stage, drop-in, 5 lbs. Capacity: 25 rounds MSRP: $2,635 Manufacturer: Yankee Hill Machine, Co.
Nanuk Protective Cases are more than just gun cases. They’re the peace of mind that firearms will remain in tip-top shape and corrosion free, no matter where they’re transported.
It’s easy to strip off greenbacks for new guns, ammo and the latest must-have shooting accessory. What often gets overlooked is firearms storage and transportation gear. But as any serious shooter will tell you, these are as important to have in your arsenal as a tricked out AR-15 or the sharpest new red-dot optic. After all, you spent your hard-earned cash on your dream pistol, rifle or shotgun, you’d better protect it.
At the recent 2017 NRA Meetings and Exhibits in Atlanta, Gun Digest editor Luke Hartle was able to check out an incredible option for keeping firearms safe and sound for long-term storage or heading to the range or into the field. As the above video shows, Nanuk Protective Cases are engineered to keep guns — no matter their size and shape — in tip-top condition, on the road or in the home.
Drawing on years of experience crafting protective cases for sensitive technical equipment, Nanuk offers hard gun cases in 22 sizes, designed to stow and protect any conceivable firearm. In addition to being shock proof, the extreme-duty cases are fully water resistant (IP67 rated), ensuring your firearms are always functional and corrosion free.
As Nanuk’s David Vigor explains, there is an even more intriguing aspect to Nanuk Cases — their flexibility. Shooters can choose from a nearly endless array of preformed interior configurations, keeping pistols and long guns and their magazines in perfect order. There is even a pick-and-pluck foam option, which allows you to tailor the exact dimensions of the retention material to your firearms and needs.
Find out more about Nanuk Protective Cases and innovative ways to keep your guns in excellent order in the above video. And get more great gun reviews and shooting tips at Gun Digest’s YouTube channel.
Many Angles to Personal Defense More than a single perspective, Straight Talk on Armed Defense offers an in-depth, full-spectrum study of the most important self-defense and concealed carry topics from today’s top experts. The timely reference gathers the sage advice of Massad Ayoob and 11 other respected armed-defense authorities to deliver decades of practical know-how in one convenient volume. Get Your Copy Now
The Springfield XD Mod. 2.4-Inch Service Model offers improved ergonomics in a mid-size pistol perfect for any shooter.
When we find an exception to a rule, the first thing we tend to do as humans is to exploit that exception for a personal benefit or a competitive advantage. Examples are all around us, from diet and exercise to schoolwork, politics and, of course, firearms. With one of its latest pistols, Springfield Armory has created an exception to the old cliché, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Springfield’s venerable XD Compact polymer pistol received a major facelift in 2015 after more than a decade of faithful service. But why change a reliable pistol that has earned widespread trust among thousands of different shooters? It’s simple: The folks at Springfield Armory knew they could successfully innovate the pistol while maintaining the dependable performance we’re used to.
The result is the new Springfield XD Mod. 2 Service Model, with updated ergonomics and styling that’s already proving why it’s an exception to the rule.
Get in the Zone With its 4-inch barrel and a grip length that can accommodate large hands, the dimensions of this 27.5-ounce pistol meet a modest middle ground that will fit nearly any shooter. However, its size is only one factor that gives this 9mm striker-fired polymer pistol a wide range of capabilities.
Anyone from casual weekend target shooters to the more experienced tactical shooters will enjoy handling its ergonomic grip, distinctly labeled with the “Grip Zone” billboard on each side of the grip, which will certainly be a turn off for some. On the bright side, you can’t see the grip while you’re shooting it.
Springfield Armory engineered this grip to provide three different textures (zones) in each area of the grip where friction occurs during firing. During testing, the grip was comfortable after 500 rounds. No callused hands or awkward pressure points to report. The grip felt like a brand new baseball glove that was already broken in and ready to play ball.
The Illinois-based manufacturer makes it easy to take the Springfield XD Mod. 2 4-inch right out of the box and put it to work. It comes equipped with features we’ve come to expect from more expensive pistols: a fiber optic front sight, an ambidextrous magazine release, an accessory rail and a loaded chamber indicator. Additionally, the sample used during testing came with a holster, double mag pouch, two 16-round magazines and a magazine loader, all of which were neatly nestled in custom-cut foam inside a hard-sided carrying case.
As tested, the 5.6-pound trigger pull had a reliable break and a crisp reset. The take-up was consistent but felt gritty at first. After 500 rounds through the gun, the gritty pull seemed to get smoother, and we expect it would continue to improve after additional range sessions and cleanings.
Springfield is offering two versions of this pistol, one in all-black finish and the other in bi-tone. The pistol tested here was the all-black version with Melonite finish. The finish seemed to hold up well to scratches and scuffs, even in the field during photography work and range usage.
When it’s time to bust out rubber ducky and give the pistol a bath, takedown is familiar to that of all previous XD variants: Remove the magazine, lock the slide rearward, rotate the disassembly lever 90 degrees clockwise, release the slide, pull the trigger (unloaded) and remove the slide.
Everyday Carry: The 5 “Cs” of CCW Any time I evaluate a handgun for an everyday carry application I consider the following five factors — what I call the 5 “Cs” of Concealed Carry — to assess important areas of the handgun’s performance.
Concealability/Comfort: The Mod. 2 4-inch provides an ideal middle ground between full-size performance and subcompact concealment. During testing, this firearm was easily concealed inside the waistband with dress clothes.
Confidence: During a 500-round function test, the only problem I noticed was my hand sometimes would not fully engage the palm grip safety, which is common for me with these types of safety mechanisms. Aside from this issue, I would be confident trusting my life with this pistol.
Control: The Mod. 2 handles like a dream with its grip texturing. Combine ergonomics with a 6¼-inch sight radius, and you have the makings of an all-purpose duty gun.
Capacity: A generous magazine capacity of 16+1 provides plenty of firepower, specifically, one more round than a Glock 19. Also important to note: The Mod. 2 4-inch will accept all magazines from 4-inch or 5-inch first-generation XD9 pistols.
Caliber: 9x19mm ammunition is more than adequate for most purposes. Make sure to use quality 9mm self-defense ammunition for everyday carry purposes, and you’ll be set for virtually any two-legged threat.
Lyte ‘Em Up The Springfield XD Mod. 2 4-inch in 9mm comes with an accessory rail for attaching lights, lasers, bayonets or whatever else you can think of adding. During testing, we tried LaserLyte’s new Lyte Ryder Universal Rail Mount laser sight. Installation was simple, as the laser sight came with all necessary mounting tools and hardware. We slid the sight on the rail and secured it in place with a single crossbar screw.
The laser features ambidextrous activation that’s easily engaged when the trigger finger is indexed down the frame of the pistol. With simple windage and elevation adjustments, we were able to get dialed in for precise POI/POA and found that the laser made target acquisition faster, especially in low light. The Lyte Ryder laser also closely matched the look and feel of the Springfield XD Mod. 2, giving it a custom appearance and an effective advantage.
Conclusion Springfield Armory made its flagship XD9 more comfortable and easier to shoot for a wider range of shooters with the next generation Mod 2. Very slight variations from the original design result in enhanced performance, especially during high round counts. While the “Grip Zone” billboard will be a turn-off for some, the improved grip texturing and re-shaping was very well engineered.
The Springfield XD Mod. 2 4-inch in 9mm gets high marks all around, with the capability to perform a variety of functions right out of the box. It’s clear that Springfield improved its old XD9 workhorse with the Mod. 2, and we expect to see this lineup continue to expand into more sizes and caliber options. In terms of accuracy, the Mod. 2 performed well with a variety of different ammunition and posted average groups between 1.3 and 2.5 inches at 7 yards.
Whether you’re a casual weekend target shooter or carrying the pistol everyday, the XD9 Mod. 2 4-inch Service Model is a pistol that nearly anyone can pick up and shoot well. When you see one at your local gun store, give it a try and feel for yourself how Springfield Armory found an exception to that old rule, “if ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”
Specifications:
Springfield XD Mod. 2 4-inch Service Model Caliber: 9mm Barrel: 4 in., hammer forged, 1:10 twist, Melonite finish Overall Length: 7.3 in. Height: 5.5 in. Grip Width: 1.20 in. Weight: 27.5 oz. (with empty magazine) Frame: Black polymer Slide: Forged steel, black Melonite finish Trigger: 5.6 lbs. Sights:Fiber optic front, low profile combat rear Capacity: 16+1 Price: $565 Manufacturer: Springfield Armory
Editor’s Note: This article is an excerpt from the Concealed Carry 2016 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.
CMMG has added four new models to its classic and reliable Mk3 AR-10 rifle line — all chambered for the flat-shooting 6.5 Creedmoor.
Hot on the heels of its recent introduction of the MkG-45 Guard carbine in .45 ACP, CMMG has another big new release for fans of the AR. Earlier this week, CMMG revealed four new additions to its established Mk3 rifle line — all chambered in the increasingly popular 6.5 Creedmoor.
“With the new 6.5 Creedmoor models, we set out to deliver our most accurate line of rifles to date,” said Chris Reinkemeyer, CEO of CMMG. “We’re extremely excited about this up-and-coming caliber and are pleased to offer it to our customers in our proven Mk3 line.”
For those who don’t know, the 6.5 Creedmoor, introduced by Hornady back in 2007, is one of the hottest new cartridges of the past few years. Originally designed for target shooting, particularly at some longer ranges, the 6.5 Creedmoor is a flat-shooting cartridge that uses high-ballistic-coefficient (BC) .264-caliber bullets. It chambers in short-action bolt guns, as well as AR-10 rifles, and in addition to its target-shooting applications, it’s also started seeing more and more use as a hunting cartridge, especially on thinner-skinned game such as deer and pronghorn.
Like its recent and popular Mk47 Mutant, the new Mk3 rifles chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor utilize a receiver set manufactured from billet 7075-T6 aluminum. As with earlier Mk3s, these new models also use a rifle-length direct-impingement gas system to get the most out of the 6.5 Creedmoor.
With the four different 6.5 Creedmoor Mk3 models, CMMG is offering varying levels of performance features at a range of prices. The base model, the Mk3, features a 20-inch medium-taper barrel rounded out with an A2 compensator. This model also incorporates a CMMG single-stage trigger, an A2-style grip and buttstock and CMMG’s RKM15 KeyMod handguard. Priced at $1,799.95, it weighs 9 pounds total.
The next step up is the Mk3 P, which adds a 24-inch heavy-taper barrel, a CMMG SV brake, a Magpul MOE pistol grip and an MOE stock. It weighs slightly more at 10.4 pounds and comes in at about $100 more than the base model. Other features that appear on the base model, such as the CMMG single-stage trigger and RKM15 KeyMod handguard, also show up on the Mk3 P.
Close-up shot of CMMG’s new RML15 M-LOK handguard, found on the DTR models.
The Mk3 DTR model swaps the RKM15 handguard for CMMG’s new RML15 M-LOK handguard. It also incorporates the excellent PRS fully adjustable stock. Like the Mk3 P, it utilizes a 24-inch heavy-taper barrel, the same SV brake and single-stage trigger and the Magpul MOE grip. The final weight on the Mk3 DTR is 11.3 pounds, and its price is slated at $2,099.95.
Last but not least is the Mk3 DTR2, the top-end model. It shares most of the same features as the Mk 3 DTR but adds Geissele’s renowned SSA two-stage trigger for even more precise shooting. It also weighs 11.3 pounds and is priced at $2,274.95.
For more information on these new CMMG Mk3 6.5 Creedmoor rifles, visit the CMMG website, or check out the full specifications for each model below. Also, be sure to keep an eye out for a full review of the new CMMG Mk3 in an upcoming issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.
Specifications:
CMMG Mk3 Type: Semi-auto, direct-impingement gas Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor Gas System: Rifle length Barrel: 20 in., 1:8 twist, medium taper 416 stainless steel Overall Length: 41 in. Weight: 9 lbs. (unloaded) Muzzle Device: A2 compensator, threaded 5/8-24 barrel Handguard: CMMG RKM15 KeyMod Receivers: Billet 7075-T6 Trigger: CMMG single stage Mil-Spec type Grip: A2-style Stock: A2-style MSRP: $1,799.95 Manufacturer: CMMG
CMMG Mk3 P Type: Semi-auto, direct-impingement gas Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor Gas System: Rifle Length Barrel: 24 in., 1:8 twist, heavy taper 416 stainless steel Overall Length: 45 in. Weight: 10.4 lbs. (unloaded) Muzzle Device: CMMG SV brake, threaded 5/8-24 barrel Handguard: CMMG RKM15 KeyMod Receivers: Billet 7075-T6 Trigger: CMMG single stage Mil-Spec type Grip: Magpul MOE Stock: Magpul MOE MSRP: $1,899.95 Manufacturer: CMMG
With lighter, faster projectiles, .17-caliber rimfires such as the .17 WSM and .17 HMR offer some advantages over more established rimfires like the .22 Long Rifle.
Undoubtedly, the majority of our hunting careers were sparked by an experience with the .22 Long Rifle cartridge; it has become a ubiquitous icon in the youth of any shooting upbringing. The simple rimfire design, coupled with a complete lack of recoil, has been used to teach generations of marksmen how to properly hit a bullseye and to put meat on the table, no matter how small the portions might have been.
However, just as the .22 LR was an evolution of the .22 Short and .22 Long that preceded the legendary design, the .22 Winchester Rimfire Magnum became an upgrade of the .22 LR, giving greater velocities and more striking energy. In 2002, ballisticians at Hornady decided it was high time to shake things up and neck the .22 Magnum down to .17 caliber; the .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (HMR) arrived with much fanfare. It would utilize a 17-grain spitzer bullet, driven to 2,550 feet per second (fps) for a flat trajectory, flatter than any rimfire that had come before.
The .17 HMR has less long-range capability than the WSM, but more to offer by way of bullet selection.
The new, hyper-velocity cartridge was an instant success, and even though the tiny bullet was extremely sensitive to wind drift, many hunters flocked to the gun shops for a new cartridge to play with. The .17 HMR is a very accurate cartridge, fully capable of taking headshots on squirrels and other small targets, as well as extending the effective range of the rimfire rifle on distant woodchucks, coyotes and foxes. It was followed, two years later, by the .17 Hornady Mach II, based on the CCI Stinger variant of the .22 LR cartridge.
Fast-forward a decade and you’d see the great firm of Winchester as busy as a beehive, hard at work releasing the .17 Winchester Super Magnum (WSM). Having seen the success of Hornady cartridges, Winchester created a cartridge based on, of all things, the .27-caliber nail gun blank — used for driving nails in concrete and other hard surfaces. For three years, the wizards at Winchester secretly toiled away in their towers — with some help from the sages at Savage — crafting a rimfire cartridge that would achieve unprecedented velocities, and upon release to the shooting public, lived up to its goals. The .17 WSM drives a 20-grain bullet to an even 3,000 fps and a 26-grain bullet to 2,600 fps.
Hornady’s .17 HMR, left, and WSM, right.
How do the two compare and contrast? And for what hunting/shooting situations are they best suited? Well, let’s get this statement out of the way: They aren’t as economical or available as the good ol’ .22 LR, and while both of the cartridges have a velocity and trajectory advantage over the reigning rimfire cartridge, it’s going to be very difficult to become a threat to the crown.
Being rimfire, and therefore virtually un-reloadable, the cartridges are a one-and-done proposition. But, for the hunter who wants a rifle that can reach out for the occasional 150-yard shot, without the report of the smaller centerfires — like the .17 Hornet and .17 Remington — the .17-caliber rimfires have an appeal. While the .17 Hornet — one of the slower centerfires of this caliber — bests the velocity of the .17 WSM by 650 fps, the rimfire .17s fill a needed void.
Those tiny .172-inch diameter pills will certainly get the job done on the smaller game animals such as squirrels and rabbits, as well as the furbearing mammals like foxes, bobcats and even coyotes, at closer ranges. For the fur hunter, these little bullets with their high velocity and light sectional density figures will help minimize pelt damage.
They both make a bit of noise; being supersonic, they probably aren’t the best choice for shooting garden pests while trying to go unnoticed. But in a situation where you don’t want a high velocity bullet sailing out of control, the .17 HMR and .17 WSM provide a relatively flat trajectory, yet with a highly frangible bullet that significantly reduces the risk of an errant bullet causing harm.
Let’s take a look at the differences between the .17 HMR and the .17 WSM in some real-world situations. Hornady makes ammunition for both cartridges, so to keep things even, I’ll use their stuff for the basis of the comparison.
Both of these cartridges are fully capable of maintaining a 100-yard zero, without the mid-range trajectory becoming ridiculous. Using a 20-grain bullet loaded in both cartridges you’ll find the .17 WSM with a V-Max bullet hits 4.10 inches low at 200 yards, while the .17 HMR loaded with a 20-grain XTP hollowpoint hits just under 10 inches low at the same distance. Now, while the WSM needs just a touch of holdover at two-hundy, the HMR needs some careful attention out past 125 yards. Not that the shot is impossible, but the holdover becomes crucial, especially on the smaller targets.
Whether HMR or WSM, both .17s are great for small game excursions.
Wind can be an absolute nemesis to any .17-caliber cartridge, be it centerfire or rimfire. The bullets simply lack the weight to defy the effects of crosswind, and learning how to dope the wind with any of these rifles will test the mettle of any rifleman. That being said, it’s a matter of simple physics to explain that all bullets of equal shape and weight will drop at the same rate.
With that in mind, the faster a bullet travels, the more ground it will cover before that drop occurs, hence the trajectory advantage of the WSM cartridge. If you are looking for a rimfire cartridge that has the capability to reach-out-and-touch-someone, I feel that the .17 WSM has the advantage. If you like a cartridge with more choices in the bullet weight department, perhaps the .17 HMR is your baby. Hornady loads the 15.5-grain NTX, 17-grain V-Max and the 20-grain hollowpoint XTP.
In either case, the faster .17 rimfires will provide a definitive advantage over the .22 LR, and in certain circumstances even over the .22 Mag. Even though the .17s are a specialty case, requiring their own special cleaning rods and patches, they are a ton of fun to shoot and very effective in the field.
The Guncrafter Model 4 in the potent .50 GI is a high-class 1911 that’s big on performance.
I’ve heard the statement a thousand times, “I carry a .45 because they don’t make a .50.” I like .45s, but that statement is getting a bit old. Now I have a great response: “Sorry, but they do make a .50.” In fact, Guncrafter Industries has been making the .50 GI now for a dozen years. Just slightly shorter than the .45 ACP, the .50 GI case measures .530 inches in diameter. It has a rebated rim, so it would use the same shell holder. A .45 ACP round sits nicely inside an empty .50 GI case. Yes, it’s an imposing round to see, in case you were wondering.
I’ve tested two other Guncrafter guns in the past, both chambered for the clasic .45 ACP round. The CCO and Frag models I tested were as close to perfect as pistols get, with match-level triggers, super slick actions, and ragged-hole accuracy. They didn’t sport high-tech features like full-length guide rods or bull barrels, but they functioned perfectly and shot tiny groups with any ammunition.
The .50 GI Model 4 has the same perfect fit and finish. You’d think guns with a price past the $3,000 mark would all be perfect, but that’s not always the case. Not long ago, a friend purchased a prestigious race doublestack 1911. He felt the trigger wasn’t up to par, and when he disassembled the gun, he found upgraded parts he’d paid for weren’t even on the gun. I reviewed another company’s 9mm race gun—a $3,400 gun—and found the trigger was gritty and the magazine wouldn’t drop free, big problems. This hasn’t been the case with the Guncrafters guns I’ve tested. So far, with three guns tested, I’ve found not a single flaw.
My test gun was the Model 4 Long Slide model with a 6-inch bull barrel. It’s a big gun, weighing just less than 45 ounces, empty. It features a Wilson Combat adjustable rear and a Trijicon Tritium front sight. The safety is ambidextrous, and there’s a blended magazine well and a flush-cut, deep-crowned bull barrel. The front strap and flat mainspring housing are checkered, as is the contact surface of the magazine release. The solid trigger has a backlash adjustment screw, but needed no adjustment. There was no discernible creep in the trigger. It broke crisp and clean at just over 4 pounds, but felt lighter due to the clean break.
The finish is a pleasant and functional matte black Melonite. It provides a classy look and lowers the coefficient of friction while hardening the surface of the parts. It’s also extremely rust resistant. Every Guncrafter gun I’ve tested has been more than the sum of its parts. Choosing the right components is important, but fit and finish are at least as critical, especially with 1911s, where exacting fit produces both accuracy and reliability.
The relationship between the metal parts is impeccable. The slide is smooth and has no lateral or vertical movement, a perfect mating of slide to frame rails. The thumb safety, grip safety and mainspring housing are a perfect fit and are gently melted to remove any sharp edges that contact the hand.
Loading the oversized magazines is easy because the big rounds provide a lot of area to push against. Magazine capacity is seven rounds, and there’s a witness hole on the side to indicate a full magazine. Since the .50 GI round has a rebated rim, the rear of the magazine lip is slightly crimped in to keep the round positioned correctly. Magazine insertion is simple with the extended magazine well, and magazines seat easily, even when fully loaded with the slide down. Magazines drop free of the magazine well, as they should. The Model 4 comes with two stainless magazines with polymer bases. It also comes with a takedown wrench for the one-piece guide rod, a ballistic nylon carrying case, and an embroidered Guncrafter towel.
Shooting the .50 GI isn’t much different from shooting hot defensive loads in a compact 1911. The extra weight helps with the added power. Fully loaded with 230-grain copper hollow points, the Model 4 Longslide weighs 54 ounces. The gun’s weight and carefully matched recoil spring with full-length recoil spring guide helps keep recoil smooth. You won’t forget the factory loads (purchased from Guncrafter) have about 30 percent more energy than a defensive .45 ACP load, but you won’t be uncomfortable. Recoil is a strong push—no feeling of slamming or peaks.
Accuracy was exceptional. Bench rested at 25 yards, five-shot groups ran a bit above one inch, with my best group measuring just .551 inches. I’m sure there was a bit of luck in that one, but suffice it to say the Model 4 is accurate. The sights are both easy to see and easy to adjust. The Model 4 feels like a regular 1911 in the hand despite the larger frame and magazines. My friend Mike and I tried running the Texas star on his range with the Model 4, but neither of us managed to clean it. We both came close, but it just didn’t happen.
While the .50 GI is certainly capable as a defensive round, I imagine the extreme penetration of most of the available loads might be a liability. Should one choose to use it for defense, the 185-grain copper hollow point would be the right call. With a muzzle velocity of almost 1,250 feet per second (fps), the solid copper hollow point expands into a perfect four-pointed star when fired into ballistic gel.
Another reasonable use for it would be as a trail gun in bear country. The 275-grain jacketed hollow point at about 950 fps approaches .44 Remington Magnum energy, with a power factor of over 260. With eight rounds in a semi-auto, it’s an impressive package indeed. There is some extra weight in the Long Slide version, but there’s also a measurable increase in performance, and that weight also results in more manageable recoil and faster follow-up shots.
Accurate, powerful, reliable, beautiful, OK, where’s the down side? Well, there are a few. First is the availability and price of ammunition. Currently, .50 GI is available from Guncrafter Industries. Pricing runs from about $30 for a box of 20 300-grain FMJ loads, to about $50 for a box of 20 copper hollow points. While this seems a lot for the FMJ loads, the price of the hollow points is only about 40 percent more than quality .45 ACP defensive ammunition. I suspect most of the .50 GI guns won’t see daily use as high-volume shooters, so maybe this isn’t a big factor.
Another downside is the initial purchase price, and again, for what you’re getting, it isn’t unreasonable. The days when guns that cost $3,000 were unusual are long past. As mentioned above, I’ve tested several $3,000 pistols, and some have been unsatisfactory. This certainly isn’t the case with the Model 4. It’s as perfectly executed as any 1911 I’ve ever tested, and several of them have run north of $3,000.
This isn’t a pistol for everyone, and I suspect that’s part of the appeal. It’s a quality piece of equipment, unique in many ways, and it performs as designed. Guncrafter Industries isn’t trying to build guns for everyone; they build guns for a certain demographic, and from what I see of the Model 4, they’ve come pretty close to the center of the target.
Specifications:
Guncrafter Industries Model 4 Type: Semi-auto, single action Caliber: .50 GI Barrel: 6 in., match-grade, bull Weight: 45 oz. (empty) Trigger: 4 lbs. Sights: Wilson Combat adjustable rear, Trijicon Tritium front Finish: Matte black Melonite Magazine Capacity: 7 rounds MSRP: $4,125 Manufacturer: Guncrafter Industries
This article is an excerpt from the September 2016 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.
The right muzzle device — whether it’s a flash hider, compensator or muzzle brake — is an often-overlooked feature when shopping for an AR. But it shouldn’t be, as each enhances the rifle in its own way. Understanding and selecting the right option for your black gun can go a long way in making a more effective firearm.
A flash suppressor or flash hider reduce the muzzle flash caused by still-burning powder exiting the barrel behind the bullet. Some powders have flash retardants in them, so a smaller signature will be seen. Others are naturally bright, and using ammo with these powders will create quite the bloom when fired. Furthermore, rifles with muzzle brakes attached tend to flash brightly, but in a more directional manner.
Here’s an example. I once conducted an experiment to see how effective a couple of these were. Now this wasn’t a truly scientific experiment, but it still was pretty definitive. I shot my 16-inch carbine nekkid muzzle, with a standard A2 flash suppressor, and with a Yankee Hill Machine Phantom 5C2 flash suppressor. I did this around 8 p.m. in the autumn, dark enough that there was little ambient light. The ammo used was Winchester 5.56 (Q3131A for a part number if you care), made in Israel for Olin Industries (owns Winchester name for ammo), known for producing a bright flash.
The Smith Enterprises Vortex flash suppressor is arguably the most effective model on the market and has been copied repeatedly. The long tines vibrate as the bullet passes through, breaking up the burning powder. You will be lucky to see a spark come out of this one.
The first shot with the nekkid muzzle produced an orange basketball-sized globular flash. It was bright and did in fact disrupt the night vision I had at the time. I followed this up with the Mil-Spec A2 flash suppressor on the muzzle.
The result when fired was a small orange flash about the size of the average Clementine orange. Then I fired with the Phantom and I was duly impressed. There was no flash visible to me or the observers (my extended family), but there was a single spark that traveled a few feet from the muzzle before extinguishing. A. Spark.
Anyone within several hundred meters would have seen the nekkid muzzle flash, and within at least a hundred meters would have seen the A2 flash. I doubt anyone within as little as 20 feet would have seen the spark and they would have had to have been looking directly at me to even catch a glimpse of it.
The Phantom, at least that model, is a superb flash suppressor and it is even pretty affordable. You can get one for under thirty bucks, and there are several models that have closed bottoms so you don’t kick up dust when firing prone. They work just as well as the standard models. They are similar to the A2 flash suppressor, which also has five open ports on the top and sides, but has a closed bottom. They have the added minor benefit that they combat muzzle rise slightly like dedicated muzzle compensators.
Back when I tried this, the only options were the Mil-Spec A1 (six evenly spaced ports), A2, the Phantom and the Vortex (Smith Industries) and the copies thereof. Now, you’ll get a headache trying to figure something out and you will ultimately probably decide based purely on the aesthetics of the device.
Get More Suppressor Info:
The Suppressor: How Is It Made, It Works And How To Buy One
There are a number of well-functioning flash suppressor on the market now, though the best seem to be variants of the Phantom or the Vortex. The Vortex has long tines similar to the Phantom, but the tines are not connected at the end. This allows the tines to vibrate like a tuning fork when the gun is fired, and this is the mechanism to disperse the flash. These types of flash hiders are arguably the most effective designs, but also tend to approach $50 in cost. You also have to watch where your muzzle goes (you already do anyway, right) or you might get stuff stuck in between the tines.
Compensators
The Vais compensator can sometimes be found on ARs but it is usually seen on traditional hunting rifles. The large series of holes vent gas 90 degrees to the bore axis, all the way around. This particular brake requires non-standard threads. Be aware of things such as thread pitches when you order your muzzle devices from retailers.
The term compensator is almost always ascribed to a muzzle device that is designed to reduce muzzle rise, not necessarily recoil. Indeed, if the device pushes the muzzle down, more recoil force is often transmitted straight back, enhancing felt recoil while keeping the muzzle movement minimal. It is true, however, that compensators and muzzle brakes can be combined effectively in the same unit, and we’ll talk about those in the following section on muzzle brakes.
The vast majority of compensators are designed with a common element of holes or slots on the top. These slots may extend somewhat to the side but then they become more like brakes. When the bullet exits the barrel and passes through the compensator, the expanding gas behind the bullet exits through these holes before exiting the “muzzle” of the comp. This produces a jet of gas that is going straight up or up and to the rear, acting as a counterforce to the rise of the muzzle. The higher the pressure of the gas behind the bullet the more effective the comp.
The A2 flash suppressor also acts as a compensator, where the older A1 flash suppressor did not. Many companies, in particular YHM, make compensator or brake versions of their flash suppressors that look virtually identical.
Muzzle Brake
One of the originals. The JP Recoil Eliminator is huge and works extremely well. However, it often looks out of place on barrels because of its large profile. The tactical models on the right are more common.
Brakes are designed a bit differently and are typified by the inclusion of baffles in the design. They work by using the expanding gas, as the compensator does, but in a different manner. These are designed to reduce felt recoil, not necessarily muzzle rise.
To do this, they have what amounts to virtual expansion chambers formed by the baffles. When the expanding gas following the bullet hits the rear face of the baffles, the gas literally pushes the baffles, the brake and the rifle it is attached to, forward. The gas then vents out the large holes on the side of the brake.
Most brakes also incorporate a few holes on the top to vent some of the gas up, giving them very good muzzle compensation in addition to the braking. You will see these in variations of two basic designs. The first is simply a hollow cylinder, bored out with dozens of holes all the way around the outside of the comp. These are reasonably effective as long as there is a front face to deflect some of the gas out, and are typified by the Williams muzzle brakes.
The second type is much larger and will have the large flat baffles and large side vent ports and most of these work incredibly well. The JP Enterprises, Dreadnought Industries and other similar models are very popular in the varminting and sporting realms because of the ease of follow-up shooting.
A very important note must be made. Compensators and muzzle brakes are so loud that you must have hearing protection. Do not shoot these guns indoors if you can help it. The concussion on these can be quite powerful and much of it is directed to the side or rear. Do not teach new shooters, especially women (who seem to be particularly sensitive to concussive effects) to shoot with centerfire rifles equipped with these muzzle devices.
On the other hand, if you are at the range and you have a couple stupid couch commando tough guys next to you (you know the type, too tough to wear sissy hearing protection, and smells like he hasn’t showered in an week), you can get rid of him quickly by getting out your compensated rifle and ripping off five or six shots one right after the other. He will quickly want to be elsewhere.
The presence of more than one assailant is common in criminal assaults. Swarms of assailants are more likely than they were a few years ago, and it is a good self-defense strategy to avoid pockets of able-bodied young men who appear capable of delivering harm.
The classic criminal assault with a second assailant, though, is usually a pincer movement conducted from the blind spot. To put this in perspective let’s re-address the encroachment problem. More than likely there’s a verbal component from the predator and the objective is to get the citizen engaged in dialogue. While engaged in dialogue, the likely approach is from behind by the second adversary. This is a difficult problem to manage and requires a significant adaptation to how one normally reacts to forward encroachment.
Even if one is aware of the potential that a second party may be coming from behind, the cost of looking may very well be the window that the initial adversary uses to throw a punch or draw a gun. So how do we maintain awareness and vigilance to a known potential problem and scan the area behind us for the most likely avenue of approach for a second adversary without making the job of the initial encroacher easier?
The key element here is movement, and the natural reaction to wanting distance and space – which is moving backwards – must change and adapt. Backwards movement is expected by any bad guy and it’s quite easy to “steer” the uninitiated pretty much anywhere, once this basic reaction is understood.
One recommendation is to “arc” around the adversary and not move backwards. A good way of visualizing this is if one were to place themselves on the face of a clock with the predator standing at twelve o’clock and the citizen standing at 6 o’clock, the objective would be to try to cut a perfect arc up to either the 9 o’clock or the 3 o’clock position.
This is not a natural or instinctive thing to do. In fact, it’s quite counter-intuitive, as are many of the best practices in self-defense. It’s also not intuitive to look at the tiny metal post at the end of the reciprocating slide in an exchange of fire, but it is most assuredly the best practice to guarantee that the bullet goes where desired.
A key in dealing with more than one assailant is moving in unanticipated ways, thus throwing them off their plans.
Arcing up to the three o’clock and nine o’clock positions provides two significant advantages in managing unseen space to the rear. First, by following the arc, we can literally maintain our primary field of vision with the known problem in front of us while simultaneously pulling what was behind us into our peripheral vision. This is significant because now we don’t lose the primary problem by “checking our six.”
The second advantage of this movement tactic is that, if indeed there is a second adversary, then what the good guy has done is remove him/her self from a 180-degree pincer problem and significantly narrowed the field of threat. Much has been written about dealing with multiple assailants, and one of the few successful tactics is lining them up as much as possible. The arcing movement does this not perfectly, but it does remove us from the unmanageable 180-degree problem and begin this process of “stacking” multiple assailants.
One more real benefit of the arcing movement goes well towards de-selecting us from a criminal selection process. The arcing movement is so out of pattern from average that, often, the reports back from those who have actually used this tactic are that the encroaching party gives the good guy an odd look and walks off mumbling. So, movement is a key element in managing a second adversary, which is common within the criminal assault paradigm.
With a full selection of riflescopes and binoculars priced for any budget, the Bushnell Engage optics line is focusing on the entire firearms market.
Shopping for optics can be a humbling experience. Few things can make that take-home pay seem more inadequate.
Easily, scopes have become the most expensive part of the setup, in many cases equaling if not exceeding the sticker price of the firearms on which they’ll be mounted. But for those with thick billfolds, the results are worth it once that bit of high-tech glass is dialed in and doing its job at the range or in the field.
Thankfully, in recent years, manufacturers have turned an eye to the rest of us, producing quality optics that don’t automatically draw a bead on your bank account. One of the latest optics manufacturers to offer both performance and affordability in a new line is Bushnell, who introduced its Engage precision optics at the 2017 NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits.
The nine scope models in configurations ranging from 2-7x36mm up to 6-24x50mm (also four models of binoculars) boast MSRPs from $149.99 to $449.99, putting the Kansas company’s new line within reach of nearly any shooter.
“The Engage line is built to outperform all other comparable scopes and binoculars and completely dominate the elements,” said Curtis Smith, global product director for Bushnell. “The only sure thing about any environment is that it will change, but Engage optics were built from the inside out to deliver world-class performance every time, in every condition.”
To that end, Bushnell is fully coating all of its optics with its EXO Barrier, which should go a long way in ensuring top performance in any environment. In addition to sharpening images and enhancing the scopes’ light gathering abilities, the barrier also plays a role in keeping the lenses clean. Filling the microscopic pores of the glass, EXO creates a slick surface that repels oil, water debris and dust, thus helping it maintain a crystal clear sight picture.
The variable-powered scopes also feature Bushnell’s Deploy MOA Reticle that provides shooters with 1-MOA windage and elevation marks. Though, because these are second focal plane scopes, the reticle’s subtension is constantly changing with magnification. In turn, to put the marks to the best use, a shooter will have to be set to a specific magnification.
Four of the Engage Precision Riflescopes also come with Tool-less ZERO Reset Locking Turrets that offer ¼ MOA per click adjustments and quick and easy adjustment.
Bushnell’s new Engage Binoculars include similar features as the riflescopes, including rugged construction, fully coated optics (PC-3 Phase Coating) and multiple configurations (8x42mm to 12x50mm). They also come outfitted with ED Prime Glass, cutting down on chromatic aberration and delivering razor-sharp images. The MSRP on the Engage Binoculars runs from $349.99 to $409.99.
For more information on the Bushnell Engage optics line, visit Bushnell’s website.
Hornady has introduced its first .300 WSM rounds, giving shooters what appear to be two more solid choices when heading afield.
If there is a cartridge that has the cards highly stacked against its widespread adoption, it’s the .300 WSM. Strange legal doings and eventual royalties due for chamber and case production made many gun and ammo makers shy away from this hot-rod midget. Yet through these troubles it’s persevered, a favorite with shooters addicted to the magnum power and abbreviated cycle rates.
There is good news for this hearty and patient facet of the gun world, as yet another brand is taking up the banner of this .30-caliber short magnum. Hornady recently announced it is now shipping two cartridge options for the .300 WSM, a 165-grain GMX Superformance cartridge and a 200-grain ELD-X Precision Hunter round. The options give shooters two solid hunting rounds, which should cover plenty of bases afield.
The GMX offering gives shooters a monometal option (copper alloy) fueled by Hornady’s “ultra-progressive” Superformance powder. The bullet is designed to deliver controlled expansion upon hitting its target and produce devastating wound channels, with the projectile routinely retaining 95 percent or more of its original weight. The .300 WSM round moves at a good clip, leaving the muzzle at 3,220 fps and losing just a little over 30 percent of this velocity at 500 meters.
The heavier round is from Hornady’s new Precision Hunter line, which attempts to replicate match performance in a field round. Aiding it to this end is the company’s ELD-X (Extremely Low Drag-Expanding) bullet, outfitted with what Hornady heralds as one of its biggest recent breakthroughs. The projectile’s Heat Shield polymer tip is engineered to resist thermal warping, thus retaining the bullet’s high ballistic coefficient over the entirety of its flight. Hornady reports the velocity of the new .300 WSM round at 2,820 fps at the muzzle and 2,106 at 500 yards out.
Presently, the GMX round is retailing at $62.53 for a box of 20 and the ELD-X for $58.11, also in a box of 20.
Vanguard has been busy in 2017, expanding its Endeavor RS riflescope line to offer shooters an ample selection of optics for any occasion and budget.
Vanguard has long been a part of the hunting and outdoors world, producing a wide spectrum of gear and accessories. But for 2017, the company has squarely set its sights on one particular facet — riflescopes.
Vanguard has released 13 new Endeavor RS scope models this year, giving shooters aiming solutions for nearly any occasion. Gun Digest editor Luke Hartle was on hand at the 2017 NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits to get a first-hand gander at this budget-friendly, hunting-oriented glass. And as he discovered, Vanguard is offering shooters a lot of perks with the expansion of its Endeavor RS line for just a little bit of coin.
Perhaps one of the more intriguing aspects of the scopes, Vanguard’s Bob Kaleta points out, is the company’s use of ED, or extra-low dispersion, glass across all of its models. Opting for ED glass means shooters have a sharper, more precise sight picture, with the lens material vastly reducing the fuzziness of chromatic aberration common to ordinary lenses.
Another exciting point touched upon is the low-light potential of the scopes — particularly Vanguard’s most powerful new addition: the RS-7. Outfitted with an industry-leading 44mm objective lens, the 7x magnification scope is engineered to gobble up light and thrive at dawn and dusk — when game species are most active.
With access to some of the most advanced ammo manufacturing capabilities on the globe, PRIME Ammunition is fast becoming a favorite among serious shooters.
PRIME Ammunition (www.primeammo.com) is a relatively new player in the shooting world. The company has been going strong for around a year and a half offering shooters top-notch rifle, pistol and shotgun ammo. But as is common in the global marketplace of ammunition, there is more than meets the eye when it comes to the Nevada-based company.
PRIME Ammunition is partnered with RUAG Ammotec, which actually handles the manufacturing end of the process. As PRIME CEO Jim O’Shaughnessy points out in the above video, the Swiss-owned (literally, by the nation) company has some of the world’s most advanced ammunition manufacturing capabilities available today. To boot, RUAG has more than 150 years of experience turning out high-precision ammo and is a top supplier of various militaries around the world.
In the video, O’Shaughnessy also goes into how PRIME Ammunition is doing its part to promote recreational and competitive shooting stateside. The company has made it a point to heavily support youth and female shooters, which includes helping launch the Precision Rifle Series PRS Kids event in conjunction with C&H Precision Weapons.
The Beretta ARX 100 is a futuristic rifle that’s both versatile and a smooth shooter.
I have always been a Beretta fan. It started when I was a teenager growing up in the ‘80s, long before I even got my hands on one. I was hooked on an action-adventure series of novels where the main protagonist carried a Beretta AR-70. Therefore, I liked the Beretta AR-70.
I grew up and forgot about those books, but I never forgot about that Beretta. My appreciation for Beretta only grew during my 11 years in the U.S. Marine Corps; my M9 never failed me, and the fit and finish is superior to just about anything else I’ve fired.
When given the opportunity to test the ARX 100, I jumped. The ARX 100 is the civilian-legal, semi-automatic brother to the select-fire ARX 160, which is only available to military and law enforcement.
The ARX 100 is a modular system that’s built to be reliable. It uses a rotary locking bolt and a fixed-piston, moving-cylinder gas system. It was also designed to be simple to operate and require low maintenance. It has a two-position adjustable gas valve to regulate the bolt speed, marked “S” for standard ammunition and “N” for non-standard, low-power ammunition. To use, always start with the Standard setting, and if it’s not cycling properly, move it to non-standard.
It is chambered in 5.56mm NATO (as tested), with more chamberings on the way. It has a 16-inch, chrome-lined, light-profile barrel with a twist rate of 1:7 and dual feed ramps. It’s capped with a standard-issue A2 birdcage compensator threaded 1/2×28 RH. The barrel heats up really fast, and with extended fire there could be some concern with the thin-profile, though this is mitigated at least a little by how easy it is to swap out barrels.
The ARX 100 weighs 6.8 pounds, is 35.5 inches long with stock extended (26.5 inches with folded stock), and 8.5 inches in height. The four-position stock folds to the right; the rifle can be fired with it folded. The pistol grip has the feel of a military-issue AR grip, but it is one piece with the lower and has a storage compartment.
The gun has a monolithic top rail, two short rails at the three and nine o’clock positions, and a two-part lower rail. The lower rail comes with a slide-off cover, which serves as a forward grip. The front exposed portion of the rail is a standard picatinny rail, and the part under the cover is for Beretta-specific accessories for the Italian army, such as grenade launchers. It comes with six sling attachment points, so however you like it, you’ll be good-to-go.
The best thing about the ARX 100 is reliability. Out of the box I put 210 rounds of American Eagle XM855 through it without so much as a glitch. Then, without cleaning it, I returned to the range and put another 90 through it, suppressed, with no problems. This was a far cry from a thousand-round endurance test, yet generally, if I don’t get a malfunction during the break-in period, I like my chances.
The ARX 100 has an ambidextrous safety, bolt catch and magazine release. The magazine release is located in the same position as on an AR, just press with your index finger. A third magazine release button is located under the trigger guard. The bolt catch is located forward of the trigger guard, on the sides. The safety is similar in form to an AR, and it also doubles as the disassembly lever; press it up past “safe” to disassemble.
One of the coolest features on the ARX 100 is the selective right or left-side ejection. Just in front of the folding stock hinge is a shrouded port containing ejection selector. Push it to the left for right side ejection, and press it to the right for left side ejection. That’s outstanding.
It’s interesting how it works: The bolt face has two opposing ejectors, one at the three o’clock and nine o’clock positions. Long ejector pins and springs project from the back of the bolt. As the bolt travels rearward, the ejector pin contacts the ejection selector on the side you have selected as the side you don’t want the brass to come out of, and the selector disengages that ejector by moving it out of the way so it doesn’t make contact with the case rim. The downside to this is that the bolt must move all the way to the rear, so if the bolt short strokes the case won’t eject.
There’s a lot to like about the ARX 100, but there are some things that Beretta can do better. Some of these things might be my personal preference, but some things will be pretty much universally disapproved. None of the issues are deal-breakers. I sent an email to John Tamborino, Beretta’s Tactical Products Manager asking about these issues, and his response was that Beretta is aware of all of these quirks and is already working to fix them.
I know Beretta, and I believe these things will be addressed, and soon. Fixing these issues would make a top contender for this market, especially at the price point, which is less than the FN SCAR.
First, the Beretta ARX 100 is missing an adjustable cheek piece. It has a really high line of sight, and it has a severe comb drop that makes it difficult to get a good cheek weld for that line of sight. With the flip-up sights I had to raise my cheek off the rifle slightly; the same even when I mounted a Meopta M-RAD, which is really small. I mounted a Trijicon RX30 on it and it sat so high that instead of resting my cheek on the stock, I found myself resting my bottom jaw on it.
To give some perspective, the line of sight using optics or the flip-up sights is roughly the same height as mounting an optic on the carry handle of an M16A2. That’s really high, and is the reason the flattop receiver was invented. I know the stock was designed the way it was, low and without a cheek piece, so that it could be fired with the stock folded. But this comes at the expense of shooting with the stock not folded, which is how it is usually fired. A good fix would be a removable cheek piece like the SIG 556xi.
Second, the trigger is very heavy; mine averaged 10.4 pounds. It’s heavy enough that about 25 rounds into a magazine dump, my finger started to fatigue and my rate of fire slowed. I have never had that happen before. Yet it’s consistent and pretty smooth, so I was still able to get decent accuracy. A lighter trigger would better realize the accuracy potential of the rifle.
Next, deployment of the flip-up sights is awkward, and closing them is worse. To open the front sight you have to reach over the top of the rifle with your off-hand, and press the release button (it moves right to left). Repeat for the rear sight. It’s not quick, but clumsy. Closure is even worse: Press the front sight closed, then while holding it closed, press the button on the left side to move it to the right.
Aside from deployment and closing, the sights do their job. The front sight post is first zeroed for elevation. The rear sight is a disk that is marked one through six; one being 100 meters, six being 600. Simply spin for the distance of the target. I’m good with this so far.
But windage adjustments are done on the front sight, and require a tool, either the included tool or a screwdriver, coin, etc. If ever the windage needs to be changed while shooting, the shooter will have to pause, reach into their pocket, and hope they have a tool. If one is planning on mounting an optic, these sights will provide a serviceable backup, and they do co-witness.
The final thing is the bolt handle. It’s thin, and if the user is wearing gloves, it’s fine, but if barehanded, it’s unnecessarily uncomfortable. It’s like carrying a heavy bucket with a broken handle; after awhile the wire handle digs into your hand. It needs to be thin so that it can be rotated to the other side, but more surface area can be added for grasping, and it would still be able to rotate.
Disassembly is tool-free with no pins, another plus, and since about 90 percent of what I disassemble are ARs, it’s kind of fun to take apart something else. First, take the magazine out and make clear. Fold the stock to the right, thus exposing the retaining plate located at the back of the receiver. Grab the grip with your left hand, and use your thumb to press up on the safety so that it goes past Safe. At the same time, with your right hand, press in on the retaining plate. With your left hand, pull down on the grip and the lower receiver will pull out. It can be a little tricky to coordinate this all at once, and I found it best to do it with the muzzle resting on the floor.
Now, pull the bolt handle back so it aligns with the notch; pull the bolt handle out until it snaps, then rotate it so that it is pointing forward. Pull the bolt carrier out from the receiver.
The barrel is simple to remove, which is a great feature, and it can be done without the rest of the rifle fully disassembled. The bolt needs to be out of the way, but it can’t just be locked to the rear; when the barrel comes out of its seat, the bolt will slam forward, potentially damaging the receiver. Instead, the manual says that you must disassemble it to the point in which the lower receiver is removed, then the bolt can be rotated forward, which prevents the bolt from slamming forward. Once the bolt arm is pointing forward, you can remove the barrel; simply pull down on both sides of the take down lever, like a Glock, and pull the barrel out. If your intent is to fully disassemble the rifle for cleaning, this method works fine.
To conduct a rapid barrel swap and get back to shooting, I found a better way that involves no other disassembly at all. Insert an empty magazine, which prevents the bolt from slamming forward. Then lock the bolt to the rear and take the barrel out. Now you can remove the magazine; once you do, ease the bolt forward. To re-insert the barrel, lock the bolt to the rear (you don’t need to insert an empty mag) and insert the barrel, piston up. Once it’s almost seated you’ll feel resistance; press it in, and the takedown lever will snap. Give it a good tug to make sure it’s seated.
It’s simple and with a minimal amount of practice a barrel could be swapped out in less than 10 seconds. This makes it a cinch to clean the rifle, but more importantly it allows barrels to quickly be changed during live shoots.
The ARX uses AR-15 STANAG magazines and comes with one heavy-duty metal magazine. It works with most magazines made for the AR-15, but not all. I used Magpul Gen1 magazines and HK clear polymer magazines, and both worked perfectly. I tried to use a TangoDown magazine, but I couldn’t get it to seat properly. Magazines that have a rib to prevent over-seating will mostly be a no-go. It’s a huge benefit to everyone that Beretta chose to use the AR-15 magazine. The AR is the most popular gun in America amongst civilian shooters, and anyone who’s owned one for a while has a lot of magazines for it. It’s great to not have to buy different magazines. It also allows for the use of all the same mag pouches and kit that you already own.
One firearm that’s stirred up a lot of scuttlebutt this year is the Mossberg 590 Shockwave. On pure intimidation factor alone, the abbreviated pump-action is worth jawing about. But there’s more to this little black demon than just its devilish good looks.
As Mossberg‘s Linda Powell explains in the above video, there is plenty of innovation that has gone into the Mossberg 590 Shockwave. First and foremost is its overall configuration, which allows the scattergun to escape NFA regulation. The 590 Shockwave’s technical classification with the ATF is as a firearm — not a short-barreled shotgun — given its overall length and the fact it never had a buttstock, instead boasting a factory-installed pistol grip. By ATF definition, a shotgun is “designed or redesigned, made or remade, and intended to be fired from the shoulder…” These details have allowed Mossberg to save shooters the headaches of paperwork, wait times and taxes.
The Connecticut gunmaker has also produced a relatively comfortable firearm to shoot in the process, despite the Shockwave’s wrist-snapping appearance. This is due to the gun’s most prominent feature — the bird’s head grip, which more readily dissipates recoil compared to a traditional pistol grip.
To discover all the features of the Mossberg 590 Shockwave and to see why its flying off shelves, watch Gun Digest Digital Editor Luke Hartle’s conversation with Powell above. And get more great gun reviews and top-notch shooting tips by checking out Gun Digest’s YouTube channel.
Looking to go armed, but are stuck in the weeds as to what to arm yourself with? Here are 20 of the best concealed carry gun options that will keep you on the defensive.
