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Review: Benelli Ethos 28 Gauge Shotgun

May 1, 2017

The new 28-gauge Benelli Ethos is a lightweight shotgun with power above its weight class, making it a great option for the serious upland hunter.

“Looks like they’re locked up again,” said Scott, our guide for the day, as he motioned forward with his head. Up ahead, Heidi, a veteran German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP), was rooted in place, clipped tail rigid in the air, front leg bent and nose straight as an arrow pointing at the edge of a tall grass patch, where yet another pheasant was surely hunkered down. Behind her was Fox, another GSP, also locked up and honoring Heidi’s point.

I was on the left side of the patch and the dogs when Scott motioned for me and another hunter to our right to move closer. After we approached, Scott had one of the Labs we were hunting with move in to flush the bird. It didn’t take much of the Lab’s lumbering antics for the bird to decide it was time to get out of Dodge.

In a rush of commotion, the pheasant flushed from the grass and made a beeline to the left. It was the perfect shot opportunity for me, and I quickly shouldered my gun, drew down on the bird and shot, making sure to swing through. The bird (my third from this one pass) dropped immediately, shedding some feathers on its way down. A few short seconds later the dogs had retrieved it, and on we went.

This was a common occurrence over three days of hunting at Pheasant Bonanza in Tekamah, Nebraska, in late October with Benelli’s Ethos 28-gauge shotgun. In fact, it was so common that those three days of hunting may have spoiled me forever.

Smaller Goes Bigger

Debuting at the 2016 SHOT Show, the Ethos 28-gauge was an expansion of the manufacturer’s already popular Ethos shotgun line, which included 12- and 20-gauge models. The new gun brought the innovative—and stylish—Ethos design to an even lighter, 28-gauge platform.

Benelli’s decision to introduce a 28-gauge offering was an interesting one in and of itself. The 28-gauge shotgun is relatively rare in comparison to 12- and 20-gauges, which tend to see the bulk of field use, and ammo can sometimes be difficult to find. This can be especially true for suitable field loads. Target loads are often more available due to the 28-gauge’s frequent use in skeet shooting. What made this new 28-gauge Ethos even more intriguing, however, was Benelli’s choice to have the gun feature a 3-inch chamber instead of one of the typical 2¾-inch length.

The concept seems to make sense. A bigger chamber translates to a bigger shell, which can equate to more shot, increased velocity, et cetera. The one caveat to this, of course, is that you have to have an ammo manufacturer that produces 3-inch 28-gauge shells, and at the time, none of the major manufacturers had been. That’s why Benelli worked with Fiocchi to develop some 3-inch high-velocity field loads. The Fiocchi loads we used on the hunt contained 1 ounce of No. 5 lead shot and were cruising along at 1,300 fps.

So does the extra quarter inch matter? I was initially skeptical before the hunt, but after having used these shells for three days and dropping a slew of birds with them—some at pretty fair distances—I have to say, I’m a believer. I saw other writers knock down pheasants at distances approaching 60 yards, and I myself dropped one at what I’d estimate as close to 50 yards. Truly impressive for a 28-gauge. But more on the new Fiocchi shells later.

New Size, Same Great Ethos

The Ethos 28-gauge is an incredibly lightweight, smooth-swinging game gun. Weighing just a touch more than 5 pounds, it’s a real treat to carry all day through the field. And, because it’s a 28-gauge, that lightness doesn’t punish you once it’s time to shoot. I actually think I brought down more birds than I could have with my standard Benelli M2 Field 12-gauge because my follow-up shots were more accurate due to the reduced recoil.

Benelli’s newest Ethos points and swings naturally, and like the previous models, it’s also a looker. The AA Grade satin walnut stock and forend and elegant, engraved nickel-plated receiver are certainly eye-catching. While this graceful design may keep avid waterfowl hunters from tossing the Ethos in their duck blind, the gun’s svelte feel and sophisticated appearance are perfectly suited for upland hunters. It was also a perfect complement to the classy upland gear provided by Banded for our hunt.

In addition to being incredibly stylish, much of the Ethos’ design is also highly functional. The gun utilizes the same great Progressive Comfort recoil reduction system found on previous Ethos models, which makes for easier follow-up shots.

It also features an enlarged bolt release, an outward-angled cartridge drop lever and an ergonomic trigger guard and safety for gloved users. Similarly, its Easy-Loading system uses a beveled loading port, redesigned carrier and a two-part carrier latch for simpler loading. One other nice feature that was brought to my attention on the hunt was the ability to quickly unload shells using a button inside the loading port. Previously, a shooter would’ve had to manually cycle and eject each shell through the ejection port.

Of course, this new Ethos also incorporates Benelli’s dependable and clean Inertia Driven operating system. This design has proven itself as inherently reliable over the years, and it certainly did so again during the course of our hunt.

The Ethos uses the same Crio choke tubes found on other Benelli shotguns, which I’ve always found to be very good. It also comes equipped with three interchangeable fiber optic front sights for use in any lighting condition a shooter might face in the field.

Parting Shots

Benelli made a bold decision by bringing out a 28-gauge model of its Ethos shotgun, especially with a 3-inch chamber. The 28-gauge has typically occupied a sort of niche in the shotgun world, being more limited to target shooting and hunting smaller game birds while the larger gauges see the lion’s share of use. However, if what I experienced during the fabulous hunt at Pheasant Bonanza is any indication, the Ethos 28-gauge has a huge potential for success with upland hunters.

It can certainly hold its own against the 12-, 16- and 20-gauges in the pheasant fields when using those 3-inch Fiocchi high-velocity loads. During three days of hunting, I believe our group of six averaged around 100 birds or more each day, with all of them falling prey to the 28-gauge Ethos. So, in short, the gun definitely has what it takes to get the job done.

At $2,199, its price is a little steep for some hunters. However, for those looking for a lightweight 28-gauge field shotgun that looks incredible and can reliably bring down upland game, Benelli’s new Ethos is hard to beat.

Specifications:

Benelli Ethos 28
Type: Semi-auto, Inertia-Driven
Gauge: 28 Ga.
Chamber: 3 in.
Receiver: Nickel plated engraved
Stock: AA Grade satin walnut
Buttstock: Progressive Comfort recoil reduction system
Barrel: 26 in.
Overall Length: 47 in.
Length of Pull: 14 3/8 in.
Weight: 5.3 lbs.
Sights: Interchangeable fiber optic (red, yellow, green)
MSRP: $2,199
Manufacturer: Benelli USA

Locked, Loaded, and Ready: Dive Into Shotgun Basics

Best AR Shotgun – Best Picks And Buyer’s Guide
410 Pump Shotgun Reviews – Best .410 Bore Shotguns
Affordable Over Under Shotguns – A Buyer’s Guide
Best Semi Auto Shotguns – Scatterguns For The Field And Defense
Best Double Barrel Shotgun Guide
8 Gauge Shotguns – Exploring Their Role in Shooting History
Top Tactical Shotguns Our Picks for the Best Models
History of Lever Action Shotguns
Top-Rated Pump Action Shotguns – A Buyer’s Guide
Best Bullpup Shotguns for Home Defense

This article is an excerpt from the January 2017 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

Ruger Unveils Silent-SR ISB Integrally Suppressed Barrel

Elwood Shelton

May 1, 2017

Ruger is offering 10/22 Takedown shooters an intriguing upgrade with its Silent-SR ISB. The integrally suppressed barrel not only offers excellent noise reduction but also a more balanced firearm.

Ruger is a bit of an oddity when it comes to aftermarket upgrades.

While much of the market has embraced the universal, spurred on by the huge demand of AR-style rifles, the New Hampshire gunmaker has consistently focused on providing proprietary options. It makes good business sense, bringing Ruger aficionados back to the source in their quest to piece together the perfect firearm. And much to the company’s credit, its seemingly ceaseless innovation gives its fans few reasons to stray.

Case in point, Ruger’s newest goody for its Takedown series of 10/22 rifles. The company is now offering what it’s dubbed the Silent-SR ISB, an integrally suppressed system that promises to deliver a more balanced shooting platform, not to mention a few other assets.

Unveiled Friday at the National Rifle Association meeting in Atlanta, the 16.12-inch suppressed barrel functions on any 10/22 Takedown or 22 Charger Takedown Pistol and is a follow-up to the company’s initial suppressor offering a year ago. But unlike its muzzle-mounted brethren, the integral suppressor system keeps the gun’s center of gravity closer to the receiver, thus making it a more maneuverable firearm.

At the same tick, the Silent-SR ISB offers shooters excellent sound pressure level reduction, knocking the report of the rifle down to 113.2 dB when shooting standard velocity ammunition. To boot, the 2.6-pound barrel is engineered to facilitate a quick and simple cleaning procedure — a feature not often associated with integrally suppressed systems.

A single 5/32-inch hex screw retains the front cap, spacer and baffles in the sleeve and disassembles with an included wrench. The six 14-4 stainless steel baffles then intuitively reassemble in reverse order and completely seal the system, to keep fouling away from the serialized sleeve.

While not a functionality, the Silent-SR ISB also gives the 10/22 a unique look, like a black Cerakoted over/under shotgun.

As far as upgrades go, particularly for rimfires, the Silent-SR ISB is a bit on the spendy side. The system itself has an MSRP of $629, nearly $200 more than Ruger’s muzzle-mounted Silent-SR. On top of this, there is the usual NFA paperwork and $200 tax shooters will have to work into their budgets.

Springfield Unveils New Springfield XD-E

Drew Warden

April 28, 2017

Springfield Armory has announced its new Springfield XD-E, the manufacturer’s first hammer-fired gun in the popular XD line.

Springfield Armory has continued to update and improve upon its respected XD series of pistols ever since the first XD was introduced back in 2002. The Illinois-based manufacturer has added several different lines over the years – the larger XD-M, the carry-oriented XD-S and, more recently, the XD Mod. 2 series. Now it has debuted the new Springfield XD-E, a 9mm single-stack pistol intended for the carry market, at the 2017 NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits.

The new XD-E, while still a member of the XD family in name and appearance, is quite different from Springfield’s previous XD models. Most noticeably, it’s not a striker-fired gun, which can clearly be seen in the external hammer at the rear. The pistol, in fact, uses a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger. At this time, pull weight is not listed.

Due to its external hammer, the gun is also able to use a slide that’s easier to rack, which the manufacturer has dubbed the L.E.S, or Low-Effort Slide. According to Springfield, the slide requires 27 percent less effort to manipulate, which will be welcome news to anyone who has difficulty pulling back the slide on standard striker-fired guns.

Another new feature, and one that has been absent on all previous XD pistols, is the addition of an ambidextrous, frame-mounted safety. This external safety also acts as a decocker, which affords the user quite a bit of choice when it comes to preferred carry condition. It can be carried cocked and locked with the safety on, or it can be toted as more of a traditional DA/SA pistol with the hammer down and with or without the external safety engaged.

The Springfield XD-E comes equipped with three different magazine options: an eight-round magazine with a flat base, an eight-round magazine with a Grip X-Tension for improved grip on the gun and a nine-round magazine with a Magazine X-Tension collar. The flat base eight-rounder offers improved concealability, while the nine-round mag essentially adds length to the frame for a better grip and an extra round. The eight-round magazine with Grip X-Tension is somewhat of a compromise between the two.

Springfield XD-E - 2 — Springfield XD-E with Grip X-Tension eight-round magazine.

The new Springfield XD-E carries over the Mod. 2’s Grip-Zone, an ergonomic texturing concept that is comfortable but firm for secure purchase. Having shot one of the subcompact XD Mod. 2 pistols, I can say that it is nice blend of textures, and one that offers smooth surfaces where comfort is key and plenty of grip where needed.

Another familiar feature is the fiber optic front sight. The rear sight is a low-profile, combat-style design. And as with earlier XD models, this one uses a hammer-forged steel barrel with a Melonite finish; barrel length on the Springfield XD-E is 3.3 inches, perfectly suited for carry. It’s also pretty comparable in weight to some of Springfield’s other concealed carry pistols at 25 ounces.

The new Springfield XD-E will be available for $519. For more information, check out the specs below.

Specifications:

Springfield XD-E
Type: Semi-auto, double action/single action (DA/SA)
Caliber: 9mm
Barrel: 3.3 in., hammer-forged, steel, Melonite finish
Overall Length: 6.75 in.
Height: 5 in. with flush magazine, 6 in. with Magazine X-Tension
Width: 1 in.
Weight: 25 oz.
Frame: Black polymer, thumb safety with decocker functionality
Slide: L.E.S. (Low-Effort Slide), forged steel, Melonite finish
Capacity: 8 or 9 rounds
MSRP: $519
Manufacturer: Springfield Armory

Review: Hornady Black Ammunition for ARs

Dusty Gibson

April 27, 2017

Hornady Black ammo is purposefully designed to feed and function properly in a variety of AR-style rifles, regardless of operating system or configuration.

Black rifles matter. In fact, the AR-15 is likely the most popular firearm in America today. According to research by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), “30 percent of all Modern Sporting Rifle (MSR) owners purchased their first rifle in 2009 or 2010.” Those millions of new AR-15 owners are eager for more trigger time and need plenty of ammo to continue feeding their hungry rifles. Data from the NSSF also indicates that MSR owners consider accuracy and reliability to be the two most important things to consider when buying an AR-15.

With its slogan, “Accurate. Deadly. Dependable.” Hornady manufacturing has been loading quality ammo for rifle owners since 1949. Considering the bonanza of AR-15 sales over the past decade, Hornady’s new Black line of ammunition suited specifically for Modern Sporting Rifles is a welcomed offering for those of us who enjoy maximizing the performance from our AR-15s. Introduced in late 2016, the entire Hornady Black ammunition lineup currently includes 14 loads spanning multiple caliber options from .223 Rem. to .308 Win., and even delves into the more exotic cartridges such as the 6.5 Grendel and .450 Bushmaster.

According to Hornady’s Marketing Director, Neil Davies, “We wanted to make sure we had a line of ammunition that is versatile enough to be fired in gas impingement guns, gas piston guns … from a variety of different configurations and barrel lengths; suppressed, unsuppressed, sonic, subsonic. “

Davies went on to say, “We put them all together in a line of ammunition that’s easily identified by the consumer. So when they go to the store, it’s easy for them to find the product that will work in their firearm.”

While some of the loads in the Black lineup are new, most of the Black ammo line includes existing loads that were scattered throughout other lines of Hornady ammunition that perform well through MSRs. For example, certain cartridges that were once labeled with Varmint Express, Custom or Match labels may be renamed under the Black lineup. In most instances where existing Hornady loads are re-branded under the Black name, the existing loads will be discontinued and replaced with the new Black label SKU.

So what does this matter to the consumer? Foremost, prices of most Hornady Black loads are less than the same loads under their original name. For example, the Hornady Custom .300 Blackout with 110-grain V-MAX bullet retails for $30.73 for a box of 20 rounds, while the same load under the Black line costs $28.33 for a box of 20. This is an all-around win for the consumer who gets the same great Hornady ammo more readily available and for a better price.

We chose a few popular loads from the Hornady Black lineup spanning .223 Rem., .300 Blackout and .308 Win. to see how they performed through ARs.

Hornady Black .223 Rem. 75-gr BTHP Match
Featuring a boat-tail hollowpoint bullet with a ballistic coefficient of .395, this load is designed with extreme accuracy in mind. Whether you’re poking paper at 100 yards or challenging the maximum effective range of your AR-15, the 75-grain bullet really goes where you want it to go. During testing through a 20-inch White Oak Armament upper, I was able to fire a new lifetime personal best group of .331-inch at 100 yards with this load. That kind of accuracy really speaks for itself, especially because I am not a professional match shooter.

Quite simply, any shooter who wants to establish a measurable benchmark for their rifle’s abilities should run their accuracy tests with Hornady Black .223 Rem. 75-grain BTHP Match.

Hornady Black .223 Rem. 75-grain BTHP
Avg. Group: .727 in.
Best Group: .331 in.
Avg. Velocity: 2,642
Std Dev: 8 fps
Extreme spread: 18 fps
Muzzle Energy: 1,162 ft.-lbs.
Cartridge Overall Length: 2.24 in.
Powder weight: 24 grains
MSRP: $20/box of 20

PROS: Extremely accurate.
CONS: Take care when loading into standard AR-15 magazines, as the overall length of this cartridge is almost too long to fit into a magazine.

Hornady Black .300 Blackout 110-grain V-MAX
Possibly one of the most versatile loads in the AR world, this cartridge boasts the all-purpose power to take on just about anything you want to accomplish. From target shooting to big game hunting and home defense, this supersonic .300 Blackout load is worth a serious look for anyone who needs a do-it-all cartridge.

During testing, the Hornady Black 110-grain Blackout loaded with a V-MAX bullet performed reliably through an AR pistol with a 10.5-inch Brownells barrel. Even when fired through a short barrel, this is a hot load that was able to produce almost 1,200 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle. Although the tested accuracy averaged consistently sub-two-inch groups at 100 yards, I believe this ammo easily has the potential to shoot less than one-inch groups at 100 yards if the shooter uses an optic with greater magnification than the Leupold VX-6 used during testing. Nevertheless, this load really puts the Black in the Hornady Blackout lineup.

Hornady Black .300 Blackout 110-grain V-MAX
Avg. Group: 1.63 in.
Best Group: 1.32 in.
Avg. Velocity: 2,212
Std Dev: 13 fps
Extreme spread: 30 fps
Muzzle Energy: 1,195 ft.-lbs.
Cartridge Overall Length: 2.10 in.
Powder weight: 18 grains
MSRP: $28.33/box of 20

PROS: All-purpose tool for any application.
CONS: You’ll want an adjustable gas block when fired through an SBR or AR pistol to tame some of the recoil.

Hornady Black .308 Win. 168-grain A-MAX
Hornady’s legendary A-MAX bullet gives the Black line of ammo a reliable big game hunting partner with the 168-grain .308 Winchester offering. The AR-10 certainly has a place in hunting camp when Hornady Black is involved, featuring an expanding bullet that has proven its abilities on game animals around the globe.

As tested through a 16-inch Del-Ton AR-10, the A-MAX bullet left the muzzle at almost 2,200 feet-per-second and punched sub-two-inch groups at 100 yards. Oftentimes, ammo reliability can be an issue with AR-10s that are finicky about ammo selection, but this was not the case considering no malfunctions occurred during testing of this load. Anyone who hunts with the AR-10 should be able to bring home the bacon with this load.

Hornady Black .308 Win. 168-grain A-MAX
Avg. Group: 2.21 in.
Best Group: 1.87 in.
Avg. Velocity: 2,148 fps
Std Dev: 20 fps
Extreme spread: 35 fps
Muzzle Energy: 1,721 ft.-lbs.
Cartridge Overall Length: 2.80 in.
Powder weight: 43 grains
MSRP: $35/box of 20

PROS: Accurate, great for hunting,
CONS: Due to price, not a good option for plinking/target shooting.

Conclusion
While it is certainly pricier than your standard surplus range ammo, the level of quality craftsmanship in this ammunition lets the AR-15 push its stereotypical limitations. During testing, Hornady Black ammo achieved impressive performance that cannot be overlooked by anyone who owns an AR-15. Strategically targeted for AR-platform rifles, Hornady Black ammo certainly lives up to the two most important expectations defined by AR-15 owners to the NSSF: accuracy and reliability. Owners of America’s favorite rifle wanted a favorite flavor of ammo, and Hornady satisfied that craving with its new Black lineup of ammunition.

Parting shots
While some of the loads in the lineup are cleverly disguised as “new,” Hornady Black ammo is a welcomed product that is already proving beneficial to consumers who want to pay less for the same high quality ammo.

Hornady Black Ammo Lineup:

5.45×39 60-gr V-MAX
.223 Rem. 62-gr FMJ
.223 Rem. 75-gr BTHP Match
5.56 NATO 62-gr FMJ
5.56 NATO 75-gr Interlock HD SBR
6.5 Grendel 123-gr ELD Match
6.8mm SPC 110-gr V-MAX
.300 Blackout 110-gr V-MAX
.300 Blackout 208-gr A-MAX
.308 Win 155-gr A-MAX
.308 Win 168-gr A-MAX
7.62x39mm 123-gr SST
.450 Bushmaster 250-gr FTX
12 Gauge 00 Buckshot

Editor’s Note: This article is an excerpt from the February 2017 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

New Handgun: STI’s DVC Carry

Elwood Shelton

April 27, 2017

The DVC Carry moves a STI line of pistols better known for competition squarely into the realm of self-defense.

For the most part, STI’s DVC line of 2011 pistols have been engineered to gun for the gold at shooting competitions — steel, practical or otherwise. But the Texas company has gotten downright defensive with the performance handgun’s latest iteration.

The STI DVC Carry integrates all the gunmaker’s proven technology into a compact package purpose-built for the concealed carry market. And while it has plenty of features certain to capture the attention of shooters, there is one particular aspect of the 9mm that has the potential to get hearts fluttering: capacity.

Being a 2011 means the pistol is a double stack, allotting nearly twice the capacity of traditional 1911s. In the case of the DVC Carry, it’s 15+1 (it also comes with an extended 17-round magazine). STI pioneered this design in the 1990s for competitive shooters, helping them save precious seconds by cutting down reloads. But it makes a logical transition to the defensive pistol end of the spectrum, giving shooters the time-tested 1911 function with modern-day capacity.

Being a double stack, the DVC Carry’s width is larger compared to traditional 1911s, but it is well in line with many of today’s most popular carry pistols. The dimension increase is all in the grip, which is 1.3-inches wide. Combined with its 3.9-inch barrel, it should be a snap to conceal. Although, like all double stacks, it could be bit of a bear for those with smaller hands to find a solid purchase.

Some of this will be overcome by the stippling on the DVC Carry’s grip — perhaps the most aggressive currently available on a production handgun. Produced by Extreme Shooters, the scale pattern polymer grips wrap 360 degrees around the frame and are designed to overcome any environment or biological (think sweat) factors to give a reliable, positive grip time and time again.

STI was weight-conscious in its design of the DVC Carry, keeping well in the ballpark of similar 9mm handguns — polymer or 1911. As is common in metal-framed concealed carry handguns, the company has opted for aluminum as the frame material, which has kept the pistol at 26 ounces unloaded. This should make it a viable everyday carry piece, one that won’t nag shooters by the end of the day.

The DVC Carry is configured to excel in low-light situations with a low-profile tritium front sight. As a nice — not to mention functional — addition STI has included a fixed ledge rear sight, allowing the pistol to be cocked with one hand.

The company has also given the handgun a touch of flair, finishing the frame and slide with a sharp black DLC coating and porting the front of the slide, allowing the copper-colored barrel to show through. The porting should also help in making the pistol more manageable on multi-shot strings, reducing muzzle flip.

As would be expected from a company that borders on semi-custom, the DVC Carry comes in on the pricier end of the concealed carry market. But for those searching for a single-action semi-automatic with peace-of-mind capacity, the pistol’s $2,999 MSRP might not be too great a hurdle.

Specifications:

STI DVC Carry
Type: Semi-auto, single action
Caliber: 9mm
Barrel Length: 3.9 in.
Weight: 26 oz.
Finish: DLC
Frame: Aluminum
Front Sight: Low-Profile Tritium
Rear Sight: Fixed Ledge
MSRP: $2,999

Gun D.I.Y.: Improving AK Triggers

Patrick Sweeney

April 26, 2017

Stock AK Triggers are not known for their crisp, clean breaks. But there is something that can be done about this with some simple modifications or upgrades.

The AK has…a very interesting trigger. For a rifleman accustomed to a “clean, crisp, 3-pound” trigger, the AK is not just odd, it can be maddening. First of all, there is nothing crisp about it. It has a lot of travel. Now, you can call this creep, or you can view it more like the double-action stroke of a revolver trigger.

It also is light for a rifle trigger, or so it seems, once you get the trigger moving. Just about the time you get used to the trigger moving…oops, it just went off. You do not “prep” an AK trigger. Once you decide to fire, you stroke through it, keeping the sights aligned. This is not an aspect of the AK that we covered in the first volume, as we were focused on building, not tuning. And, we were all building them to be as much like the originals as possible. The attitude was, “If Spetsnaz can deal with trigger slap, then the rest of us can, too.”

AK Triggers — If you experience trigger slap, look on the underside of the disconnector. See where it is hitting, and remove metal there, and only there.

One annoying thing is that in some models, the trigger is prone to what is known as “trigger slap.” This happens when the hammer, being cocked by the bolt carrier, slams back down against the trigger, forcing it back against your trigger finger. It would be bad enough if it were simply slapping you. But since it occurs in the follow-through phase of the shot, your trigger finger is pressing hard on the trigger, holding it back.

One solution is to replace all the parts. And since you have to do that when building a parts kit (not that there’s a lot of that anymore) you simply replace them with parts that don’t slap. However, if you have an import and it slaps, you can do the same thing — replace the parts. Not because you have to be 922(r) compliant, but because you want to enjoy shooting.

Before we go swapping out parts, let’s look at why it happens, and how you can take care of it without buying new parts.

The AK has what is known as a two-stage trigger. The sear and disconnector hooks are built into the trigger. The sear hooks are a fixed feature of the trigger, while the disconnector is a hinged, spring-loaded part.

When you fire your AK, the hammer pivots back via the bolt carrier, and the dual hooks of the hammer slam down into the cam edge of the disconnector. The disconnector pivots out of the way, and then, powered by its spring, snaps back to catch onto the rear hook of the dual-hook hammer sear surfaces. When you release the trigger for the next shot, the trigger pivots, allowing the disconnector to pivot out of the way and release the hammer, in the process dropping it onto the trigger sear hooks.

The next step is when you fire. The trigger pivots under your finger, and the sear surfaces of the trigger pivot forward, eventually sliding off of the hammer sear surfaces, releasing the hammer. As the trigger pivots, it also brings the disconnector hook back into the pivot path of the hammer hooks on their return. (But in this part of the cycle they are underneath the hammer hooks and do not interfere with the firing press.)

Trigger slap happens when the disconnector, whacked by the hammer, pivots back out of the way. If there is not enough clearance inside the trigger trough, the back end of the disconnector slams into the trigger itself. Since the impact point of the disconnector trigger strike is behind the pivot point of the trigger, the impulse acts to cam the trigger forward. This happens at speed while you are holding the trigger down, so your finger takes the brunt of the impact as the trigger is slammed forward.

Ouch.

So, the solution, in theory, is to remove metal so the back end of the disconnector can’t contact the trigger when the disconnector is cammed back. This means taking all the trigger parts out of the receiver, looking for the contact point, and then filing or grinding that area clear.

This is simple to describe, but not always easy to do. First, the hardness of the metal can vary. You may find that a file slides right off. Or you may find that the parts are soft, and a brief touch up on the bench grinder wheel is all that is needed.

Avoid the temptation to address the problem by removing metal from the back of the trigger. Unless you have a milling machine, and can reach into the slot to take some metal out, you’re best just doing the work to the disconnector.

That’s what you do if you are going to work with the existing parts. Why modify the existing parts? If you happen to have a trigger set that produces an acceptable trigger pull, that’s reason enough. If you have a trigger pull that, aside from the trigger slap, is good or even exceptional, you would be an idiot to replace the parts with new ones. Unless you’re an inveterate experimenter, of course. So if it is good enough, leave well enough alone.

If not, you can always simply replace with a new trigger assembly, such as the RAK-1 from Century Arms, or one of the ALG Defense trigger kits.

There’s one other detail to keep track of — single versus double hook. Mechanically, the double hook uses the disconnector as a trigger stop. This means the disconnector catches the hammer and releases it, and is used as a trigger pull stop to bear against the trigger near the end of the trigger press. This sometimes can be felt as a stop, while at other times it cannot.

This design feature is stolen directly from Browning, and he used it to make the trigger pull cleaner. It was used to great advantage on the Garand, and was a great part of its success as a target rifle.

The single hook design does not use the disconnector as a stop, and depends on a very large sear overlap serving as the safety and trigger press control.

The history, design, implementation and incorporation of the double and single hook, over the decades and in various countries and models, could fill a book. Or at least, several chapters of an encyclopedia, and is not something we need to dive into here. Just keep in mind that some models will have a double-hook design, some a single hook, and replacement triggers usually are made to fit into either. Yes, that’s right, the double- and single-hook parts are meant to go into double- or single-specific receivers. So, if you happen to have a single-hook receiver, and double-hook parts, you’ll find they won’t fit without mods. That’s annoying, but the Soviets and Chicoms were not interested in making things easy for us. On the contrary, they simply wanted as many rifles as they could make.

Century Arms RAK-1

The RAK-1 is a parts set from Century Arms that replaces all the internals of your AK. So, if you are building, they comprise three parts for 922(r) compliance. If not, you would be wise to replace all, rather than mess around trying to install one or two of them in a vain attempt to produce a better trigger pull. You’ll be better off with all three.

Century makes the parts out of a steel alloy, then heat treats them for a long service life and smooth engagement. They also made sure the disconnector was modified so it doesn’t create trigger slap. While they were at it, they modified the design so that, despite being a double-hook trigger, it will fit into receivers made for single-hook triggers.

As a bonus, Century includes a trigger sleeve, which serves as a slave pin. It’s handy because you can assemble the hammer, spring and trigger with the sleeve, and then slide everything into the receiver. Then, when you press the trigger pin across, it presses the sleeve out of the way, so you don’t have to have three hands and a stick to install all the parts.

The parts come with instructions, as if you need instructions to swap parts in an AK. But still, it is a good thing on their part.

ALG Defense

ALG Defense, while maintaining the critical dimensions of the AK trigger and hammer, took liberties with the parts’ cosmetics. The single hook, while shorter than your typical AK single hook, is machined to a crisper engagement, and the lines of the parts are more European or American than Russian. (It is hard to describe, but take a look and you’ll see.)

They use triple alloy steel, which means it is most likely a chrome-moly Vanadium steel. Whatever it is (and ALG Defense isn‘t saying), it is good, which is what we’d expect from the folks there. It comes with the needed disconnector spring, but you’ll either have to use the original hammer spring, or add an ALG Defense AK hammer spring to make things work.

One visible change to the trigger from ALG Defense is the shape of the bow. The original AK trigger has a sharp curve that hugs your trigger finger. The ALG trigger is a more open curve, providing a smaller contact pad, which aids in a cleaner trigger pull.

As an aid to fitting, ALG Defense includes a pair of roll pins, and have added a spot on the trigger to install one of them. This is to ensure your safety lever actually makes contact with the trigger when on Safe.

The AK has been built on five continents (as far as I know, no one made AKs in Australia, and there aren’t any in Antarctica) over the previous seven decades. The idea that they all have triggers that properly contact all safety levers is absurd. So, ALG made it easy, there’s a way to make the trigger and safety meet when and where they’re supposed to.

The ALG Defense trigger set comes with extensive instructions, the kind of explanatory overkill of which I heartily approve.

This article is from the Gun Digest Book of the AK & SKS, Volume 2.

New Handgun: Kimber’s Super Jägare

Elwood Shelton

April 25, 2017

Kimber’s new Super Jägare sets to arm hunters with a trustworthy semi-automatic ready to take aim at large, medium and small game alike.

Given the selection of large-bore cartridges, handgun hunting used to be exclusively the realm of revolvers. But as the discipline has gained favor with hunters seeking a new challenge, more and more semi-automatics have been heading afield.

The venerable 10mm round has made the style of pistol a viable and reasonable option for a wide variety of game. Combined with a semi-automatic platform, it offers enthusiasts a number of interesting advantages, including relatively judicious recoil and the potential for fast follow-up shots.

Kimber is the latest to go on the hunt, applying its 1911-knowhow to build a 10mm that aims to excel in function, as well as elegance. The Super Jägare is now available and comes purpose built to chase anything from whitetails to coyotes straight from the box.

Perhaps one of the more intriguing aspects of the 10mm is it comes standard without traditional sights. Taking the place of the customary blade and notch is a Leupold DeltaPoint Pro rear-mounted red-dot sight.

This is a logical move in many respects, given most in the handgun hunting game opt for an optic anyhow. And in this case, hunters get a rugged reflex sight that facilitates fast target acquisition and hand-free operation. The sight features Leupold’s Motion Sensor Technology that activates illumination upon any movement of the unit.

The 42-ounce Super Jägare is outfitted with a 6-inch barrel to maximize the potential of the round. And it is configured to keep the gun on target during multiple shots, utilizing a ported barrel intended to reduce muzzle flip. Aligned ports on the slide allow gas to escape more freely and add a touch of flair to the design, while keeping internal mechanisms cleaner.

The pistol’s controls have been maximized for easy operation in the heat of a hunt or in gloved hands. The ambidextrous thumb safety provides ample space to get the gun into the hunt and an aggressively checkered magazine release facilitates speedy reloads of the 8-round magazine — should the occasion call for it.

The slide has also been augmented to include forward scallop cocking serrations, but along the length of the top. This was done to avoid the ports, but at the same time it offers plenty of real estate to manipulate the pistol and its 18.5-pound recoil spring.

Kimber has endowed the Super Jägare with its usual panache, making the pistol an eye-catching two-tone design. However, the KimPro gray stainless steel frame and matte black Diamond-like Carbon coating on the slide shouldn’t catch light to tip off potential game that they’re in a hunter’s sights. The high-grip beavertail and undercut trigger guard should give shooters a firm grip and allow the deeply checkered Micarta grip panels to do their job.

Like all Kimbers, the Super Jägare leans toward the ritzier end of the 1911 market. But given all its bells and whistles, the $2,688 MSRP might be just right for some hunters, especially those itching to hit the field as soon as possible.

Super Jägare Specs
Caliber: 10mm
Height: 5.25 in.
Width: 1.28 in.
Overall Length: 9.7 in.
Barrel Length: 6 in.
Weight: 42 oz.
Capacity: 8+1
Twist Rate: 1:16
Pull Weight: 4-5 lbs. approximately

New AR: CMMG’s MkG-45 Guard in .45 ACP

Drew Warden

April 25, 2017

CMMG has released its new MkG-45 Guard, an innovative AR chambered in .45 ACP and featuring a unique Radial Delayed Blowback system.

CMMG has always been an innovator ever since its founding in 2002. However, in the past few years especially, it has really made an effort to redefine what the AR can be. In late 2014, the company introduced its Mk47 Mutant, a hybrid AR/AK design, and this past year, it brought out the MkW-15 Anvil in .458 SOCOM. Now, CMMG has just announced its new MkG-45 Guard, a .45 ACP pistol-caliber carbine.

The new MkG-45 Guard is offered in five different configurations and feeds from common Glock magazines. The gun also uses a unique, patent-pending Radial Delayed Blowback system that the company has developed.

“With the Guard, we set out to engineer an affordable, highly reliable AR chambered in .45 ACP that would use the widely-available Glock magazines. In the early stages of design, we tested out a variety of different operating systems, including straight blowback and direct impingement, but none of those options gave us the reliability we were looking for. We ultimately came up with the design for the Radial Delayed Blowback system and from there, all the pieces started falling into place,” said Chris Reinkemeyer, CEO/CFO at CMMG.

Most pistol-caliber carbines feature a straight blowback operating system. In fact, CMMG’s own Mk9 series of 9mm ARs utilizes a straight blowback design. However, CMMG found that a new system was needed with the larger, more potent .45 ACP.

The new Radial Delayed Blowback system on the CMMG MkG-45 Guard actually uses a bolt carrier group (BCG) not unlike those on a standard, direct impingement AR. However, its operation is different. Following a shot, it’s the bolt’s forced rotation to unlock that slows down the BCG enough to safely cycle .45 ACP loads. Without that delay for rotating and unlocking, the MkG-45 would be unable to safely handle the increased power of the .45 ACP. This system also permits the BCG and buffer system to be lighter than those on straight blowback 9mm ARs, which also translates to a lighter firearm overall.

The new MkG-45 utilizes AR-style controls, so lack of familiarity shouldn’t be an issue. This also includes a last-round hold open function, which shooters are sure to appreciate. The Guard .45 ACP incorporates a new, patent-pending, dual-pinned, fully machined bolt catch linkage. This linkage should offer consistent and reliable operation without needing adjustments or tuning, and the actuation from this linkage is sturdy enough that it still uses a standard bolt catch spring.

The MkG-45 Guard ships with one 13-round factory Glock 21 magazine, and CMMG recommends factory double-stack Glock .45 ACP magazines if shooters are looking for additional mags. CMMG will also be offering bolt weight kits for shooters looking to fine-tune their gun for +P ammo or use with a suppressor.

For more information on the new CMMG MkG-45 Guard in .45 ACP, visit the CMMG website, or check out the specifications below.

Specifications:

CMMG MkG-45 Guard T
Type: Semi-auto, Radial Delayed Blowback
Caliber: .45 ACP
Barrel: 16.1 in., 1:16 twist, medium taper 4140 SBN barrel
Overall Length: 32.5 in. (stock collapsed)
Weight: 5.6 lbs. (unloaded)
Muzzle Device: CMMG SV Brake, threaded .578-28
Handguard: CMMG RKM11
Grip: A2-style pistol grip
Stock: Six-position M4-style
Lower Receiver: Billet 7075-T6 aluminum
Upper Receiver: Forged 7075-T6 Aluminum
Trigger: CMMG Single Stage GI-style trigger
MSRP: $1,299.95

CMMG MkG-45 Guard DRB
Type: Semi-auto, Radial Delayed Blowback
Caliber: .45 ACP
Barrel: 16.1 in., 1:16 twist, medium taper 4140 SBN barrel
Overall Length: 32.5 in. (stock collapsed)
Weight: 5.8 lbs. (unloaded)
Muzzle Device: CMMG SV Brake, threaded .578-28
Handguard: CMMG RKM14
Grip: Magpul MOE Pistol Grip
Stock: Magpul CTR stock
Lower Receiver: Billet 7075-T6 aluminum
Upper Receiver: Forged 7075-T6 Aluminum
Trigger: CMMG Single Stage GI-style trigger
MSRP: $1,399.95

CMMG MkG-45 Guard PDW
Type: Semi-auto, Radial Delayed Blowback
Caliber: .45 ACP
Barrel: 8 in., 1:16 twist, medium taper 4140 SBN barrel
Overall Length: 25 in. (stock collapsed)
Weight: 5 lbs. (unloaded)
Muzzle Device: CMMG SV Brake, threaded .578-28
Handguard: CMMG RKM7
Grip: Magpul MOE Pistol Grip
Stock: Magpul MOE adjustable stock
Lower Receiver: Billet 7075-T6 aluminum
Upper Receiver: Forged 7075-T6 Aluminum
Trigger: CMMG Single Stage GI-style trigger
MSRP: $1,349.95

MkG-45 Guard PDW Pistol
Type: Semi-auto, Radial Delayed Blowback
Caliber: .45 ACP
Barrel: 8 in., 1:16 twist, medium taper 4140 SBN barrel
Overall Length: 24 in. (stock collapsed)
Weight: 4.7 lbs. (unloaded)
Muzzle Device: CMMG SV Brake, threaded .578-28
Handguard: CMMG RKM7
Grip: Magpul MOE Pistol Grip
Stock: CMMG pistol receiver extension
Lower Receiver: Billet 7075-T6 aluminum
Upper Receiver: Forged 7075-T6 Aluminum
Trigger: CMMG Single Stage GI-style trigger
MSRP: $1,299.95

MkG-45 Guard DRB2
Type: Semi-auto, Radial Delayed Blowback
Caliber: .45 ACP
Barrel: 16.1 in., 1:16 twist, medium taper 4140 SBN barrel
Overall Length: 32.5 in. (stock collapsed)
Weight: 5.8 lbs. (unloaded)
Muzzle Device: CMMG SV Brake, threaded .578-28
Handguard: CMMG RKM14
Grip: Magpul MOE Pistol Grip
Stock: Magpul CTR stock
Lower Receiver: Billet 7075-T6 aluminum
Upper Receiver: Forged 7075-T6 Aluminum
Trigger: Geissele Automatics SSA
MSRP: $1,599.95

Firing Line Video: Black Hills Ammunition’s HoneyBadger

Gun Digest Editors

April 24, 2017

Tipped with a specially designed solid copper bullet by Lehigh Defense, Black Hills Ammunition’s HoneyBadger provides an excellent-performing self-defense round.

The honey badger don’t care! Especially if it’s the new self-defense round by Black Hills Ammunition. Designed to produce superior velocities and overcome layers of clothing to produce devastating wound channels, the HoneyBadger has everything shooters look for in a reliable defensive round.

What makes the round so potent is that it’s tipped with a specially designed solid copper bullet from Lehigh Defense. Wait a tick, monometal bullets for self-defense? Might as well shoot full metal jacket, right? Not quite. Plenty of engineering has gone into Lehigh’s monometal wonders, which helps them outperform hollow points while avoiding the dangers of overpenetration.

The bullet’s machined flutes dump a majority of the projectile’s energy at the front end of its entry into a target, producing massive wound channels. This feature also brings it to a controlled stop well within the FBI’s 12-18 inches of penetration standard. Its hard, front cutting edges ensure it slices through barriers that often plug hollow points, giving it consistent performance. And, the bullet retains all its weight upon entering a target, creating a longer, more devastating wound channel.

Smith & Wesson Shipping New M&P15 Models

Drew Warden

April 24, 2017

Smith & Wesson has announced it is now shipping new models of its classic M&P15 modern sporting rifle with M-LOK compatibility.

Ever since 2006, when Smith & Wesson introduced the gun public to its new M&P15 rifle, the M&P15 has represented a great option for entry-level buyers. And within the past decade or so, the M&P15 line has only continued to expand.

This past week, Smith & Wesson announced that it had begun shipping two new models of its classic modern sporting rifle. These two new additions are the M&P15X and M&P15T. The two new products keep the original appearance and function of past rifles in the line but offer a few key enhancements, such as M-LOK-compatible forends.

The new M&P15X utilizes a new M&P slim, aluminum carbine-length handguard outfitted with M-LOK slots. A 2-inch M-LOK Picatinny-style rail panel is also included with the rifle, and the gun features a standard Picatinny top rail. Another nice upgrade is the addition of a chromed firing pin.

The M&P15T, on the other hand, comes equipped with a longer 13-inch M&P, slim, M-LOK-compatible, modular free-float rail system. It also arrives with Magpul’s MBUS flip-up iron sights as standard.

Both of these new rifles feature a 16-inch barrel with a 1:8-inch twist and 5R rifling for improved accuracy and easier cleaning. The barrel on each is also treated with an Armornite finish on both interior and exterior surfaces. Each rifle has a forged, integral trigger guard and is outfitted with a patented S&W flash suppressor on the muzzle.

Jan Mladek, general manager for the M&P and Smith & Wesson brands, said, “We are proud to continually deliver new and innovative additions to our M&P15 rifle series in order to meet the changing needs and wants of our fans and consumers. We remain dedicated to developing the finest products possible. From the seasoned competitor to the professional user, these enhanced M&P15 rifles are a must-have for any shooting enthusiast.”

At this year’s SHOT Show, famed competitive shooter Jerry Miculek demonstrated the new M&P15T’s capabilities during the show’s Industry Day at the Range event. Miculek used the M&P15T to set a new speed record, firing 10 shots on three targets in 1.59 seconds. Miculek said, “Attempting speed records is never easy, but using the right equipment improves my chances. I really like what Smith & Wesson has done with the M&P15 rifle.”

The new M&P15X and M&P15T are available now for $1,239 and $1,190, respectively. Each rifle ships with a 30-round Magpul PMAG magazine.

For more information on these two new rifles, visit the Smith & Wesson website, or check out specifications on the new rifles below.

Specifications:

Smith & Wesson M&P15X
Type: Semi-auto, direct impingement gas
Caliber: 5.56 NATO
Barrel: 16 in., 5R rifling, 1:8-in. twist, 4140 steel
Overall Length: 36.8 in.
Weight: 6.4 lbs.
Stock: Six-position standard AR
Grip: Standard GI-style grip
Sights: Adjustable A2-style front post, Magpul MBUS folding rear
Handguard: M&P slim, aluminum, carbine-length with M-LOK
MSRP: $1,239
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson

Smith & Wesson M&P15T
Type: Semi-auto, direct impingement gas
Caliber: 5.56 NATO
Barrel: 16-in., 5R rifling, 1:8-in. twist, 4140 steel
Overall Length: 36.6 in.
Weight: 6.7 lbs.
Stock: Six-position standard AR
Grip: Standard GI-style grip
Sights: Magpul MBUS folding front and rear sights
Handguard: 13-in. M&P, slim, modular free-float rail system with M-LOK
MSRP: $1,190
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson

Gun Review: Stevens S1200 Shotgun

Josh Dahlke

April 21, 2017

The Stevens S1200, the company’s first autoloader, performs under pressure and is attainable by the masses.

It was a hot summer morning when I joined a gang of gun industry compadres at a backyard shooting range to prepare for a day of fast-paced wingshooting. Our six-man crew gathered around a picnic table full of clay pigeons, shotguns and ammo to burn. We would warm up on clays flung from a Champion WheelyBird trap before heading to a nearby dairy farm to help with a real pigeon problem. However, the core of our mission that day was to test the new Stevens S1200. We uncased four of the hungry 12-gauge autoloaders and fed them until our supply of clays turned to dust.

Inside the S1200

Before we headed down the road to pound pigeons, I sat down with J.J. Reich, communications manager for Stevens, to get some insider details about the S1200.

Q. What prompted Stevens to bring this new autoloader to the market?

A. We wanted to expand the depth of our shotgun line by offering shooters more options in actions and provide a greater variety within each family. Stevens has a proven stable of field and security shotguns, plus a popular youth model introduced just last year. Adding a series of semi-automatics to the roster gives shooters even more choices that are equally at home busting clays on the range or helping you enjoy banner days in the field.

Q. How diverse is the S1200 line?

A. There are five different models in all, providing options in barrel lengths from 26 to 28 inches; black synthetic and walnut stocks; and two full-gun Mossy Oak camo patterns—Shadow Grass Blades and Bottomland. This kind of variety gives our customers the chance to choose the perfect combination for their style of shooting.

Q. How is the inertia system different or similar to other shotguns in this category?

A. There’s nothing unique about our inertia system. What I will say is the S1200 is loaded with amenities that serious shooters will appreciate and at a highly competitive price point.

Q. What enables Stevens to keep the price of the S1200 so reasonable?

A. Like other Stevens shotguns, the new S1200 is crafted by trusted overseas suppliers who work tirelessly with us to provide great quality at an affordable price. Such a partnership helps us provide the kind of performance shooters have come to expect without cutting corners to keep costs down.

Q. Are there plans to expand the S1200 line?

A. Yes, we’re working toward releasing a few 20-gauge options (S1220) for 2017.

S1200 Details

The S1200 is built with a 3-inch chamber to accommodate 2.75-inch (5+1 capacity) or 3-inch (4+1 capacity) shells. It weighs 6.6 pounds with a 14.25-inch length of pull. The receiver is made of lightweight aluminum. A carbon-steel barrel sports a front metal bead sight that sits on a ventilated rib. It accepts the Beretta Mobilchoke System, which offers a full spectrum of task-specific choke constrictions; the S1200 comes with five popular options: cylinder, improved cylinder, modified, improved modified and full. Prices range from $573 for the utilitarian black synthetic models up to $685 if you demand the more classic walnut stock, with camo models in between at $629.

Running the Gun

Our pigeon-hunting posse jumped into a couple of pickup trucks and rode into cattle country. As we pulled into the driveway of a farmyard, flocks of pigeons circled the barn overhead. It was a target-rich environment, well suited for our field test of the S1200.

There’s no limit on pigeons, so the first thing we did was remove the plug from our guns. The configuration of a plug might seem like a small detail, but if you’re jumping between waterfowl and upland birds with one all-purpose scattergun, a plug can become a pain in the rear. Unlike most shotgun manufacturers, Stevens really nailed it with the plug placement in the S1200. Unscrew the forearm cap and the plug pulls out effortlessly—no worries about a flying magazine tube spring or extra steps to access it.

We had a variety of Federal Premium cartridges with us for testing purposes. The S1200 smoothly cycled 3-inch Black Cloud steel and 2.75-inch Wing-Shok lead upland loads, knocking down dirty birds by the dozens. The guns shouldered comfortably, balanced well and smoothly swung through the avian acrobats.

In basic terms, an inertial autoloader cycles rounds with the aid of a tightly wound spring that compresses upon recoil, which forces the bolt rearward to eject the spent shell and serve up a fresh one. Benelli, Franchi, Beretta and Stoeger use this system, whereas Remington, Mossberg, Winchester and others use gas-operated systems.

The primary benefit of inertial autoloaders is that they run cleaner than gas guns, but generally this comes with a noticeably heavier dose of felt recoil. A proper grip and mount will do wonders for any recoil-sensitive shooter. I’ll never pretend to be a tough guy. Recoil sucks. After firing a couple hundred rounds through the S1200—at least half of which were magnum loads—I can say it’s certainly harder hitting than most gas guns I’ve handled, but it’s not overpowering by any means.

Felt recoil aside, there is another downside to running an inertial semi-auto: It won’t reliably cycle the little guys. A light, low-brass cartridge doesn’t generate a big enough of a bang to work the action. The S1200 didn’t escape this fault, as it was totally incapable of running tiny target loads. This is a standard issue for any inertia-driven shotgun, and for most shooters it’s not a concern because the application of shooting such light loads is pretty limited.

There’s one other literal chink in the armor of the S1200: All of our test models that wore a camo finish started to exhibit paint loss after minimal abuse. When we pointed this out to Reich, he immediately and urgently took note and passed the word on to Stevens’ production team. Hopefully this weak link in the manufacturing process can be strengthened. If this is a concern, one might opt for the rugged and gentlemanly walnut-stocked, blued-barrel version of this shotgun.

As a whole, the S1200 is a solid performer at a price point that’s difficult for a budget-conscious shooter to ignore. It’s a practical performer that won’t make you cry if it gets bumped or bruised.

Specifications:

Stevens S1200
Type: Semi-auto
Gauge: 12 ga.
Barrel: 26 or 28 in.
Barrel Material: Carbon steel
Barrel Finish: Matte
Overall Length: 47.25 or 49.25 in.
Weight: 6.8 or 6.9 lbs.
Capacity: 5
Stock: Synthetic
Price: $571

Blast Through the Basics: All About Shotguns

Best AR Style Shotgun – A Comprehensive Review
Best 410 Pump Shotgun – A Buyer’s Guide
Best Over Under Shotgun – Affordable Doubles
Best Home-Defense Shotguns
Double Barrel Shotgun Reviews – Affordable Doubles
What is an 8 Gauge Shotgun? Everything You Need to Know
Best Tactical Shotguns A Comprehensive Guide
Lever Action Shotgun Reviews – The Past, Present And Future
The Best Pump Action Shotgun Guide
Bullpup Shotgun Buying Guide – Best Options for Self-Defense

Editor’s Note: This article is an excerpt from the December 2016 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

New Gear: Ruger AI-Style Magazines

Drew Warden

April 21, 2017

New Ruger AI-style magazines offer shooters a Ruger factory-produced option for their Ruger Precision and Gunsite Scout Rifles, as well as other rifles that use AI-type magazines.

In recent years, Ruger has expanded its production into categories outside of its typical base. It branched out into the ammo game with Ruger-branded ammunition, joined the ever-growing suppressor market with its Silent-SR .22 LR suppressor, and delved into accessories with its BX Trigger for the 10/22 and its Elite 452 Trigger for the AR. Now, the American manufacturer is adding factory-produced Ruger AI-style magazines to its list of aftermarket accessories.

These new Ruger AI-style magazines are molded from 50 percent glass-filled nylon for improved strength and durability. They feature corrosion-resistant, stainless steel springs for reliable feeding, as well as dust covers for protection during transport and storage.

The new magazines are compatible with Ruger’s Precision Rifle and the company’s Gunsite Scout Rifle. They are also designed to be used with many of the available AICS (Accuracy International Chassis Systems) type bottom metal assemblies.

There will be two models of the new Ruger AI-style magazines: a .308 version and a .223 variant. The .308 magazines are compatible with rifles chambered in .308 Win., 6.5 Creedmoor and other .308-sized cartridges. Meanwhile, the .223 version is capable of utilizing .223-sized cartridges with a maximum overall length of 2.5 inches.

The new Ruger AI-style magazines for rifles chambered in .223 Rem. are offered with a 10-round capacity, while the .308 magazines are available with a 5- or 10-round capacity in the standard variation or with a 3-round capacity for use in sporter-stocked rifles, such as Ruger’s Gunsite Scout.

These new magazines are currently available for $39.95 at Ruger’s online store.

New Ammo: The 22 and 33 Nosler Cartridges

Drew Warden

April 20, 2017

The new 22 and 33 Nosler cartridges fill some gaps in the ammo manufacturer’s cartridge lineup and should be exciting developments for any serious shooter.

The Nosler name has been synonymous with advancements in ammunition and bullet design ever since John Nosler developed the famous Partition bullet and founded the company in 1948. In the past few years, the manufacturer has continued that legacy of innovation with the development and introduction of several proprietary cartridges.

In late 2013 and early 2014, Nosler introduced and began producing its very first SAAMI standardized cartridge, the 26 Nosler. An incredibly flat-shooting 6.5mm cartridge, the 26 Nosler used the .404 Jeffrey as a parent case, shortened to fit in a standard .30-06-length action, and was capable of impressive velocities – retaining as much velocity at 400 yards as a .260 Remington produces at the muzzle. In 2015, Nosler followed that up with the 28 Nosler, and in 2016 it released the 30 Nosler, both of which utilized the same .404 Jeffrey as a parent case.

Now, for 2017, Nosler has added two more cartridges to its ever-growing list: the 22 Nosler and 33 Nosler. The two new additions represent both the low end and the high end of the Nosler cartridge line, with both filling in important gaps.

33 Nosler
Officially introduced in the fall of 2016, the 33 Nosler shares the same .404 Jeffrey parent case as the previous entries in the Nosler cartridge family but fires larger .338-caliber bullets. Dubbed the “patriarch” of the family by Nosler, the 33 Nosler is set up for big game and shooting at long range.

The new 33 Nosler boasts the ability to launch a 225-grain AccuBond bullet at a brisk 3,025 feet per second (fps) or a new, slightly heavier 265-grain AccuBond Long Range bullet at 2,775 fps. According to Nosler, that’s roughly 275 fps faster, and with 20 percent more energy than the .338 Winchester Magnum using the same length action. It’s also listed as being a touch faster than the revered .338 Lapua Magnum at the muzzle, and it does so burning around 18 percent less powder.

Nosler is currently offering three loads for the new 33 Nosler, two from Nosler’s Trophy Grade hunting ammo line and one from its Match Grade line. The Trophy Grade loads feature either a 225-grain AccuBond bullet or a 265-grain AccuBond Long Range bullet, while the Match Grade offering utilizes a 300-grain Custom Competition projectile. Predictably, buying 33 Nosler ammo is not a cheap affair, with pricing for a 20-count box currently ranging from $71.50 to $77.50, depending on the load selected.

The company will also be supporting the new 33 Nosler with factory-made brass and with its full line of M48 rifles in 26-inch barrel configurations.

22 Nosler
On the other end of Nosler’s cartridge spectrum is the new 22 Nosler. Formally introduced during the 2017 SHOT Show, the 22 Nosler is one of the more exciting and, frankly, surprising developments for the new year.

It is unexpected for two reasons. One, it deviates from the rest of the Nosler cartridge family in that it does not use the .404 Jeffrey as a parent case. In fact, the 22 Nosler has no parent case. And two, unlike Nosler’s other cartridges, which are built for bolt guns, this new offering is tailored from the start for use with the AR-15.

According to the manufacturer, the 22 Nosler was born from a desire to create the most powerful .22-caliber centerfire cartridge that could readily function in an AR. To that end, the new 22 Nosler offers 30 percent more energy and almost 300 fps of added velocity when compared to the standard .223 Rem./5.56 NATO. Nosler has also designed the 22 Nosler’s case in a way that makes it relatively easy to convert a standard AR from .223 Rem./5.56 NATO to the new cartridge.

All that’s required to convert an existing AR to one utilizing the 22 Nosler is swapping in a new barrel (or a dedicated 22 Nosler upper, if that’s the user’s preference) and changing out the magazine. Because the case diameter and taper are similar to the 6.8 Remington SPC, the 22 Nosler can feed from standard 6.8 SPC magazines. And because bolt face dimensions for the 22 Nosler are identical to those of the .223 Rem./5.56 NATO at .378 inch, users will still be able to use their rifle’s existing bolt carrier group.

The 22 Nosler is capable of velocities approaching those of the iconic .22-250 Rem., and does so in a significantly smaller package. It offers almost 25 percent more case capacity than the standard .223 Rem./5.56 NATO and is capable of driving a 55-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip bullet and a 77-grain Custom Competition bullet at 3,350 fps and 2,950 fps, respectively, out of an AR equipped with an 18-inch barrel.

“The AR-15 is indisputably one of the most popular firearms among shooting enthusiasts across the globe” said John Nosler, Executive Vice President for the company. “While there are other hard-hitting cartridges that exist for the platform, as far as .22 caliber is concerned, nothing compares to the performance of our newly engineered 22 Nosler case. It was important to us that every AR-15 owner could instantly customize their existing rifle to 22 Nosler without any fancy gunsmithing. In keeping with that goal, a simple switch of the magazine and upper will do the trick. With a cartridge innovation this significant, any shooter running other .22 cals in their AR-15 will at the very least have to reconsider their efficiency.”

Nosler says it will be producing brass for the 22 Nosler, and it also plans to chamber its full line of M48 rifles in 24-inch barrel configurations for the 22 Nosler. In terms of fully loaded ammunition, the company will be offering two loads, one in its Trophy Grade Varmint line and the other in its Match Grade line. The Trophy Grade loading features a 55-grain Ballistic Tip Varmint projectile, while the Match Grade offering has a heavier 77-grain Custom Competition bullet.

Pricing on ammunition for the new 22 Nosler starts at $29.95 for a 20-count box of either the Match Grade or Trophy Grade loads.

For more information on either the 22 or 33 Nosler, visit the Nosler website.

5 Fundamentals of Defensive Shooting

Tiger McKee

April 19, 2017

In a defensive shooting situation, these are the basics that will help to save you and your loved ones’ lives.

Most violent confrontations are sudden, dynamic and unpredictable. After all, if you knew there was going to be a fight, you would apply our number one tactic, which is avoid and escape. There are times, however, when this isn’t an option, and an immediate defensive response is required. The fundamentals of responding to a threat or attack are move, communicate, use cover, shoot, if necessary, and think.

The problem with these fundamentals is that none of them are natural; almost everything you need to do in response to a threat goes completely against our natural instincts. Our natural response to a threat is to freeze until we figure out what’s going on. Once we decide to fight, our instinct is to root to the ground. What we need to do is move. Communication consumes a large part of our brain’s resources. Under stress it’s extremely difficult, and it requires practice to overcome the lockjaw you’ll experience. The same thing is true when using cover. Almost everything you must do to take advantage of the protection cover offers goes against our natural inclinations. Shooting isn’t instinctual to begin with, and it’s even more difficult under stressful conditions. We aren’t built to have explosions going off in our hands, even the controlled explosion of shooting a firearm. Finally, thinking is mandatory. Defending against a violent attacker is a mental process – problem solving at high speed. If you’re not thinking and acting, then all you’re doing is reacting, which is a bad place to be when someone is trying to harm you or your family.

Move

There are a lot of reasons to move. Creating distance from the threat (or threats) greatly reduces the chance of being injured, regardless of the type weapon being used against you. There are bystanders in the environment, so you’re moving in order to get a clear angle of attack on the threat, reducing the possibility of injuring someone if you have errant rounds. You move to get to cover and the protection it provides. You move to the exit, toward your family or to get to better cover.

A moving target – you – is more difficult for the threat to engage. Moving is one of the best ways to put the threat into a reactive mode. The threat charges at you. You move a few steps to the side. Now he has to react to your actions, assessing, creating a response, and redirecting the attack.

Communicate

Communication is a key tactical skill that’s often overlooked during training and practice. You communicate with threats. “Leave my home now!” “Stop, drop the weapon!” Millions of times every year, strong verbal commands accompanied by a firearm defuse violent confrontations, and this is only the number of times that this is documented. You communicate with friends and family, telling them what you need them to do or where to go. Communication is mandatory when working with an armed partner in order to coordinate your tactics and actions. As discussed previously, sometimes it’s good idea to talk to yourself, verbalizing your actions in order to help maintain mental focus.

Communication is an exchange of information. I talk to my dog, but I communicate with my wife. Keep your communications short and sweet. Under stress, simple works best. Using names, in order to get someone’s attention, makes communicating more efficient. The act of communicating consumes a large part of our brain’s resources, or “random access memory.” In order to communicate effectively under stress, you need to practice it in advance.

Cover

Get to cover as quickly as possible, preferably as soon as you spot potential trouble, before the confrontation gets physical. Cover provides protection against the threat’s weapon. Cover is relative to what type weapon the threat is armed with. If they are trying to physically assault you, or they are armed with a knife or impact weapon (which means they have to be close in order to attack) something like a large table provides cover, as long as you can position it between you and the threat. When it comes to protection against firearms, everything is relative to what type weapon the threat is using. Cover stops or redirects incoming rounds. Something that protects you from a handgun round may not hold up against a high-velocity rifle round.

Concealment hides you, but doesn’t offer any protection, but that doesn’t mean it won’t work in response to an attack. If the threat can’t see you, they don’t know where you are; it greatly reduces the chance of them attacking. Then, if you decide it’s necessary, you can let them know where you are when you decide it’s time.

Stop the Threat

There are two ways to stop a threat – the psychological stop and the physical stop. Moving, issuing verbal commands and using cover may force the attacker to change his mind about what he was going to do – the psychological stop. The other way is to physically stop the threat by shooting, placing accurate hits on the threat and inflicting the physical damage necessary to stop the attacker.

When it’s necessary to shoot, you have to apply the fundamentals of marksmanship – aim, hold, press, and follow through – in order to get accurate hits. The speed at which you can shoot depends on the accuracy you need. With a large, close target you can fire fairly quickly, putting the hits where they need to go. As the distance increases and/or the size of the target decreases you need more precision, ensuring that when you do press the trigger you get accurate hits.

Think

Defeating a lethal threat is problem-solving at high speed. You have to constantly be thinking, forcing threats to react to you. Normally you have a very short amount of time to come up with a solution to the problem and then implement the action. Once you gain the upper hand, you keep pressing the advantage, which means thinking about what you’re going to do next and what you’ll do if that doesn’t work; and mentally plugged in and ready for the unexpected, which occurs in fights with regularity.

In order to focus on the problem-solving aspects of the conflict, the majority of your skills must be applied at a subconscious level. The AR runs empty. The conscious mind says “reload” and then the subconscious mind takes over to perform the actual reload. There’s no time to think about how to reload, it just has to happen. Ditto for clearing malfunctions if they occur, using cover or transitioning to the handgun. The ability to perform these actions at the subconscious level frees up the conscious mind to think about your problem.

Self-defense is more art than science. Your “artwork” will be different from that of everyone else. Train, practice, learn, and remember that your ultimate weapon is your mind. If you’re not thinking and acting, then all you’re doing is reacting, which means the threat is in control. The only thing you can control in a fight is what you do, so make sure to practice so that you can apply your skills efficiently, safely and under all types of conditions.

Editor’s Note: This article is an excerpt from AR-15 Skills & Drills.

New Shotgun: Winchester’s Super X4

Elwood Shelton

April 19, 2017

Winchester has christened its new line of autoloading shotguns, the Super X4. Combining tried-and-true technology with improved controls and ergonomics, the company believes it has found a way to replace a classic.

They say change is the only constant. That seems no truer than in the gun world. Present case, Winchester’s line of autoloading shotguns.

The Super X3 has been the company’s tried-and-true top-end semi-automatic smoothbore for a spell now. And it has won its fair share of fans along the way, whether in the duck marsh or the trap range. But it appears the sun is setting on the venerable SX3 and rising on its heir apparent, the aptly named Super X4.

The new line, released this year, will be Winchester’s bread-and-butter autoloading shotgun, as the company phases out the SX3 over time. The shotgun, initially available in 12 gauge, isn’t a radical departure from the past, carrying over important technology that made its predecessor popular. In particular, the new shotgun still features Winchester’s Active Valve Gas System that automatically self-adjusts to cycle a vast spectrum of common loads. But the company has fiddled with a number of the SX3’s ergonomics in a bid to make the next-generation scattergun more functional — especially in the field.

However, right off the bat, what will catch the attention of those familiar with the SX3 line is how the new Super X4, SX4 Waterfowl Hunter, SX4 Field and SX4 Field Compact are balanced. The guns are more forward-heavy than their forerunners, with the center of gravity well into the forearm. This will give the guns a different feel to those who have handled the more center-balanced SX3. The change does have the potential to improve the gun’s follow-through, thus making it harder to miss a target.

From there, the name of the game on the Super X4 is ergonomics. Winchester has enlarged a number of the key controls on the shotgun, making them easier to manipulate. The bolt handle, bolt-release button, trigger and safety have each increased in size, making them easier to locate and work, especially on the fly. These considerations will be especially welcome for waterfowlers, who often operate with the impediment of gloves. Aesthetically, the cross-bolt safety and bolt release have been modified, as well, with Winchester opting for a polygonal design.

Winchester has also modified the stock, slimming down the forearm and the pistol grip. Once again, the idea is to make the firearm more compatible to gloved hands. But even without this gear, it should assist shooters in placing more of their hand on the firearm, affording them more control.

Winchester has done away with the brass bead common on the SX3 line. In its stead is a TruGlo Long Bead fiber-optic front sight, which should more readily draw the eye on the point. And finally, the company has outfitted the gun with its Inflex Technology Recoil Pad meant to reduce the gun’s felt recoil.

Other notable features of the Super X4 line include: a hard chrome-plated chamber and bore, a drop-out trigger group, Invector-Plus removable choke tubes and a back-bored barrel.

The SX4 and SX4 Waterfowl are available with both 3- and 3 1/2–inch chambers, and both have composite stocks. The Waterfowl model is covered from buttstock to muzzle with Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades pattern. The SX4 Field and SX4 Field Compact are only available with 3-inch chambers and come dressed in a stick of Grade I walnut.

Nearly the entire line comes in under the $1,000 mark, save the 3 ½-inch chambered SX4 Waterfowl that has an MSRP of $1,069.99. The price appears right, but it will take a few seasons chasing pheasants and pintails to see if the Super X4 reaches the mark the SX3 set.

Specifications:

SX4
Gauge: 12 gauge
Chamber Length: 3 or 3 1/2 in.
Barrel Length: 26 or 28 in.
Overall Length: 47 or 49 in.
Length of Pull: 14 1/4 in.
Drop at Comb: 1 3/4 in.
Drop at Heel: 2 in.
Weight: 6 lbs., 12 oz. (26-in. barrel), 7 lbs. (28-in. barrel)
Magazine Capacity: 4, 2 3/4-in. shells
Rib Width: 1/4 in.
Barrel Finish: Matte
Stock: Composite
Stock Finish: Matte
Chokes Included: Invector-Plus Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder
Receiver Finish: Matte Black
Chamber Finish: Chrome-Plated Chamber and Bore
Front Sight: Fiber Optic
Stock Material: Composite
Recoil Pad: Inflex 1, Small with Hard Heel Insert
Receiver Material: Aluminum Alloy
MSRP: 3-in. chamber $799.99; 3 1/2-in. chamber $939.99

SX4 Waterfowl
Gauge: 12 gauge
Chamber Length: 3 or 3 1/2 in.
Barrel Length: 26 or 28 in.
Overall Length: 47 or 49 in.
Length of Pull: 14 1/4 in.
Drop at Comb: 1 3/4 in.
Drop at Heel: 2 in.
Weight: 6 lbs., 12 oz. (26-in. barrel), 7 lbs. (28-in. barrel)
Magazine Capacity: 4, 2 3/4-in. shells
Rib Width: 1/4 in.
Barrel Finish: Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades
Stock: Composite
Stock Finish: Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades
Chokes Included: Invector-Plus Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder
Receiver Finish: Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades
Chamber Finish: Chrome-Plated Chamber and Bore
Front Sight: Fiber Optic
Stock Material: Composite
Recoil Pad: Inflex 1, Small with Hard Heel Insert
Receiver Material: Aluminum Alloy
MSRP: 3-in. chamber $939.99; 3 1/2-in. chamber $1,069.99

SX4 Field
Gauge: 12 gauge
Chamber Length: 3 in.
Barrel Length: 26 or 28 in.
Overall Length: 47 or 49 in.
Length of Pull: 14 1/4 in.
Drop at Comb: 1 3/4 in.
Drop at Heel: 2 in.
Weight: 6 lbs., 12 oz. (26-in. barrel), 7 lbs. (28-in. barrel)
Magazine Capacity: 4, 2 3/4-in. shells
Rib Width: 1/4 in.
Barrel Finish: Matte
Stock: Grade I Walnut
Stock Finish: Satin
Chokes Included: Invector-Plus Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder
Receiver Finish: Matte Black
Chamber Finish: Chrome-Plated Chamber and Bore
Front Sight: Fiber Optic
Recoil Pad: Inflex 1, Small with Hard Heel Insert
Receiver Material: Aluminum Alloy
MSRP: $939.99

SX4 Field Compact
Gauge: 12 gauge
Chamber Length: 3 or 3 1/2 in.
Barrel Length: 24, 26 or 28 in.
Overall Length: 43 3/4, 45 3/4 or 47 3/4 in.
Length of Pull: 13 in.
Drop at Comb: 1 3/4 in.
Drop at Heel: 2 in.
Weight: 6 lbs., 12 oz. (24- and 26-barrel), 7 lbs. (28-in. barrel)
Magazine Capacity: 4, 2 3/4-in. shells
Rib Width: 1/4 in.
Barrel Finish: Matte
Stock: Grade I Walnut
Chokes Included: Invector-Plus Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder
Receiver Finish: Matte Black
Chamber Finish: Chrome-Plated Chamber and Bore
Front Sight: Fiber Optic
Recoil Pad: Inflex 1, Small with Hard Heel Insert
Receiver Material: Aluminum Alloy
MSRP: $939.99

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GUN DIGESTWE KNOW GUNS SO YOU KNOW GUNS

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Browning has added a touch of class to its popular semi-automatic shotgun line with the A5 Hunter High Grade. Ornate and functional, the newest “Humpback” should hammer fowl in style.

Kimber’s new Super Jägare sets to arm hunters with a trustworthy semi-automatic ready to take aim at large, medium and small game alike.

Tipped with a specially designed solid copper bullet by Lehigh Defense, Black Hills Ammunition’s HoneyBadger provides an excellent-performing self-defense round.

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In a defensive shooting situation, these are the basics that will help to save you and your loved ones’ lives.

Communicate

Stop the Threat

Winchester has christened its new line of autoloading shotguns, the Super X4. Combining tried-and-true technology with improved controls and ergonomics, the company believes it has found a way to replace a classic.

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