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The Best Bullets for Self Defense

May 4, 2016

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Self defense handgun ammunition is quite like a fire extinguisher: When you need it, you really need it, and you need it to work well. And furthermore, a discount fire extinguisher doesn’t quite cut the mustard. You need the bullet that will perform best in your handgun and possesses the qualities you can count on. We need a bullet that will neutralize a threat to life and limb; one that is accurate; one that will expand reliably and will penetrate enough to quell a very dangerous situation yet not over-penetrate and risk harming an unintended target. Not all handgun bullets can fit the bill, but I’ve found a few that will. Let’s take a look at them.

Federal Premium HST
Among the premium bullets, I feel the Federal HST reigns supreme. It is a jacketed hollowpoint that opens up into a deadly looking flower of expanded copper and lead. I had the privilege of visiting the Federal plant in Anoka, Minnesota, and we put many different bullets to the test, literally. We used blocks of raw ballistic gel, some gel covered in clothing and gel behind two pieces of sheet-rock and some clothing. The HST gave reliable expansion, even through the gypsum, and penetrated deep enough to take care of an attacker without sailing though walls and risking the possibility of wounding or killing a loved one. I have come to trust the HST bullet for its accuracy and for its terminal ballistics. Federal now offers the Micro HST line of ammo, which is loaded to best serve the subcompact handguns that are so popular today. It is available in .380 Auto, 9mm Luger, .40 Smith & Wesson and .45 ACP.

Hornady XTP
Hornady XTP is one of the toughest cup-and-core handgun bullets I’ve ever used. It shoots very well in my revolvers—an S&W Model 36 in .38 Special and a Ruger Blackhawk in .45 Colt—and these bullets hit hard. The hollowpoint expands reliably upon impact, and the thick jacket and cannelure help to keep that bullet together. The XTP (eXtreme Terminal Performance) also makes a great hunting bullet, but for a good choice in some of the smaller calibers like .38 Special and .327 Federal it’s really hard to beat. That little snub-nose .38 of mine will print the 158-grain XTPs much better than I ever thought a gun with a 1 7/8-inch barrel would do. Even at low velocities, the XTP will give consistent expansion; on the opposite side of the coin, the XTP Mag. will withstand the highest impact velocities from the magnum handgun cartridges. Available in cartridges from .25 Auto through .500 Smith & Wesson.

Speer Gold Dot Personal Protection
Not many people are talking about Speer bullets these days, what with all the new bullets available. However, new products don’t always mean that the older ones are bad. The Speer Gold Dot has an impeccable reputation, and with good reason. Law enforcement, hunters and the self-defense community have long understood that the Gold Dot Personal Protection is a fantastic bullet, and some of the modern updates have made an old classic even better. The jacket partially wraps around the meplat of the bullet, allowing for a bullet that is soft enough up front to expand at low impact velocities, yet tough enough to hold together at distances measured in feet. Like the HST, Speer has designed the Personal Protection Short Barrel version of the Gold Dot for use in subcompact automatics and short-barreled revolvers. That same Model 36 of mine likes these bullets as well, and I have and will carry them with all the confidence in the world. If law enforcement trusts this bullet, I take that as a very good endorsement, and my experiences with the Speer Gold Dot have shown that it lives up to the strong reputation it’s built. It is available in calibers from .25 up to .45, for both revolvers and automatics.

Federal Premium Guard Dog
This is a very clever design, incorporating all the best features of a hollowpoint bullet but it feeds like a flat point bullet. Federal Guard Dog is, at its heart, a hollowpoint, but the hollowpoint is filled with a rubbery blue polymer and then the whole package is plated. This results in a bullet that gives consistent and reliable expansion but doesn’t over penetrate. It also adds up to a bullet that performs like a hollowpoint but is perfectly compliant for those states that won’t permit the use of hollowpoint ammunition, like New Jersey. In my testing of Guard Dog ammunition in the .45 ACP, it came very close to performing like the HST bullet from Federal with respect to the expanded diameter and its weight retention, as well as depth of penetration. We were using a Kimber 1911 clone, and the ammo was very accurate and fed like a dream. I think we put three boxes of ammo downrange and there were no malfunctions whatsoever. Throw the Guard Dog a bone; it’s a loyal and faithful companion.

Cutting Edge Bullets Personal Handgun Defense (PHD)
The Cutting Edge Handgun Raptor is one of the most radical designs I’ve seen in some time. They are an all-copper hollowpoint, and like so many other monometal bullets, they are light for caliber, which equals a higher velocity and lower pressure, while still maintaining a projectile the same length as the heavier lead core counterpart. Then there’s the terminal performance: The Handgun Raptor is designed with a skived hollowpoint, which breaks into four small blades upon impact. The blades cause massive trauma at the front end, while the remainder of the bullet stays at caliber dimension, for an unprecedented sectional density among expanded bullets, to deliver the necessary penetration. I’ve used the Cutting Edge PHD in 9mm Luger, .40 S&W and .45 ACP, and with the sole exception of one particularly finicky 9mm pistol, it has all fed reliably and given more-than-acceptable accuracy. I really appreciate the fact that the lighter projectile, and corresponding lesser recoil, allows the shooter to get back on target quicker between shots. If you’re not familiar with Cutting Edge Bullets, you really need to be. Available in 9mm Luger, .40 S&W, .45 ACP.

Find the ammunition that works best for you and your handgun, and carry confidently!

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

Photo Gallery: Real Gems from Morphy Auction’s Fine Gun Sale

Elwood Shelton

May 4, 2016

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There is only one way to describe the firearms market as of late — red hot. Shooters and enthusiasts of every stripe have been snapping up every conceivable make and model of shotgun, handgun and rifle in recent years.

But it has not just been the newest and shiniest guns that have buyers cracking open their wallets and purses. Vintage firearms boasting a fine patina and historical significance have also been corning the market. One need not look further than Morphy Auctions for proof.

The Pennsylvania auction house had an impressive haul at its April 9-10 fine firearms sale. Morphy reported moving 1,500 lots in the two-day event, which propelled more than $1.8 million in sales. And it wasn’t just the company’s volume that raked in the dough, but also the desirability of the guns that crossed the block.

When the smoked cleared, the auction house had 19 lots that moved for $5,000-9,999, 11 for $10,000-19,999 and one topping $20,000. The belle of the ball turned out to be a firearm familiar to many sportsmen — a Browning Superposed Over/Under Shotgun. The 20-gauge achieved a price of $23,180 at the auction, its appeal driven by its rarity and mint-in-box condition.

Here is a look at that superb smoothbore and few of the other firearms that highlighted Morphy Auction’s sale.

Ready for Combat: Colt Combat Unit Pistol

Drew Warden

April 25, 2016

Designed with input from former operators, the new Colt Combat Unit Pistol is purpose-built for hard use.

John Browning’s renowned 1911 has a rich and extensive history as a service pistol. Following its initial introduction, the M1911, and later 1911A1, served as the U.S. armed forces’ main service pistol in most military conflicts until 1985. Even after being retired from service broadly, it has remained in use with various special branches of the military to this day.

Combat Unit Pistol-edited-landeen_colt_gunsite-2698-667 — With its forward picatinny rail, the Combat Unit Pistol is perfect for various tactical applications.

Although these days a 1911-style pistol is much more likely to be found in the hands of competitive and recreational shooters than in the hands of most soldiers, the 1911 has always been, and remains, a duty-oriented handgun. Just a few years back, the U.S. Marine Corps chose to adopt a version of Colt’s Rail Gun for combat use. It was designated the M45A1 and featured a Desert Tan cerakoted stainless steel receiver and slide— for this year, it will be replaced with a Decobond brown coating—and a 1913 Picatinny rail up front.

Now, in 2016, Colt is introducing another 1911 built duty-tough. Dubbed the Colt Combat Unit Pistol, this combat-inspired 1911 chambered in .45 ACP will be exclusively available from TALO Distributors. Developed with input from a range of world-renowned trainers, as well as Special Forces veterans Ken Hackathorn and Daryl Holland, the Colt Combat Unit Pistol comes packed with practical and useful features.

The most noticeable, initially, is the M1913 Mil Spec Picatinny rail found on Colt’s previous Rail Gun and M45A1. The rail offers ample space for lights, lasers and other accessories, which makes it perfect for a wide variety of tactical applications for law enforcement and/or military personnel. It also makes the pistol equally suitable for home defense scenarios.

Like the M45A1, the Combat Unit Pistol utilizes a stainless steel slide and frame, but instead of a cerakote or Decobond coating, it features a blackened stainless finish. The frame also includes 25 lines per inch (LPI) checkering on the frontstrap and backstrap for improved grip and control during firing.

landeen_colt_gunsite-2766-1000 — The Combat Unit Pistol’s thumb safety is accessible and easy to activate or deactivate.

In another attempt to enhance control and accuracy, especially during rapid shooting, Colt has added its Dual Spring Recoil System™ to the Combat Unit Pistol. This system helps mitigate felt recoil and also increases the longevity of recoil spring life. It is well known that some shooters have difficulty managing the .45 ACP’s recoil; the reduced recoil impulse with the Dual Spring system has the potential to aid some of those shooters, especially with follow-up accuracy.

For increased accuracy regardless of time of day, the Colt Combat Unit comes equipped with a Novak Tritium Night Sight up front and a wider-than-average, plain Novak Low Mount Carry rear sight. The combination of the highly visible front sight with the wide rear notch ensures quick and easy sight acquisition in all scenarios, which could be the difference between life and death on the battlefield, or in any violent encounter.

landeen_colt_gunsite-2770-667 — The Combat Unit Pistol features a Novak Tritium front sight, and the rear is a Low Mount Carry notch sight.

The Colt Combat Unit Pistol comes with a 5-inch, polished stainless steel barrel and a 4.5- to 6-pound single-action trigger. The trigger offers a relatively smooth pull without creep and a crisp, clean break, resulting in very good accuracy.

There are also several ergonomic elements designed to make the Combat Unit feel quite comfortable in the hand. The pistol features an undercut trigger guard and an upswept beavertail grip safety that helps facilitate proper hand placement, and the firearm’s extended thumb safety is easy for right-handed shooters to engage and disengage. Additionally, black and gray scalloped G10 checkered grips provide a reliable grip surface without unnecessarily digging into the hands.

Overall, the Combat Unit Pistol is 8.5 inches in length, 5.5 inches in height and 1.25 inches in width. The Combat Unit has a magazine capacity of 8+1 rounds and weighs 40 ounces unloaded. It ships with two magazines.

The new Colt Combat Unit Pistol will be available for $1,499 from TALO Distributors.

First Look: Team Never Quit Ammo

Drew Warden

April 20, 2016

The market for ammunition has been continuing to grow over the course of the past several years, with many relatively new manufacturers jumping in the mix. One of the newest is Team Never Quit, which has partnered with Snake River Shooting Products to develop a diverse line of quality ammunition for training, personal defense and hunting.

One of the prominent faces of Team Never Quit Ammo and former Navy SEAL and author of New York Times bestseller “Lone Survivor,” Marcus Luttrell was able to offer some information on the company’s progression and its goals for Team Never Quit Ammo.

Check out the video above to learn more about the products and the story behind Team Never Quit Ammo.

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Modifying Parent Cases to Achieve Desired Power Potential

Andrew Chamberlain

April 20, 2016

Three categories combine to describe what I call the cartridge’s power potential. Therefore, understanding which loads in a particular cartridge produce the maximum velocity, maximum energy and maximum power is the key to understanding Power Potential.

The World's Greatest Reloading Book — Handloader's Digest — The World’s Greatest Reloading Book — Handloader’s Digest.

Understanding power potential is the fundamental first step to understanding and simplifying the world of cartridges. The next step is to understand how power potential is affected, as well as limited, when that same case (or parent case) is manipulated to propel projectiles that are either smaller in caliber and inherently lighter, or larger in caliber and inherently heavier.

A parent case is exactly what it sounds like; it is the original & unique case from which new cartridges are built. For example the .30-06 Springfield is one of the earliest mass-produced big game cartridges. The .30-06 Springfield is also the parent case for many popular hunting cartridges. A small sampling of these include the: .25-06 Remington, .270 Winchester, .280 Remington, .338-06, and .35 Whelen.

A given cartridge has a perceived range of capabilities (or perceived power potential). New cartridges can be built from the existing cartridge to accomplish a new set of capabilities. This is done by simply changing one or more of the case’s three main physical characteristics. These are: 1-the neck diameter, 2-the case length, and 3-the shoulder height & angle. A fourth could be body taper, but that is much less common than the first three.

Neck Diameter: Reducing the neck diameter allows the cartridge to fire a smaller caliber bullet. Enlarging the neck diameter allows it to fire a larger caliber bullet. Manipulating the neck diameter tends to either increase bullet velocity or increase overall power potential (*not both*).

Case Length: Lengthening a parent case increases its powder capacity and increases its overall power potential. Shortening a case provides a smaller powder charge. This reduces recoil and overall power potential. But this can also increase powder efficiency. Manipulating the length of the parent case usually occurs in the draw process (when mechanically forming the case from a piece of brass). New improved powders occasionally allow a new cartridge to use a smaller case capacity and maintain a similar power potential as an older established cartridge that has a noticeably larger case capacity.

Shoulder: Manipulating the shoulder height and its angle can change how the burning powder builds pressure in the cartridge. This manipulates how the bullet is propelled out the barrel. “Improved” shoulders can increase velocity, powder charge and overall power potential.

The power potential of a parent case is governed by the fact that it has a fixed maximum powder load. As discussed above, power potential can be utilized to maximize velocity by propelling a lighter projectile. Or this power potential can be utilized to maximize energy & momentum by propelling a heavier and/or larger caliber bullet.

Editor’s Note: This article is an excerpt from Handloader’s Digest 19th Edition.

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Legacy Introduces Youth Pointer Break-Action Shotgun

Elwood Shelton

April 20, 2016

Pointer’s new break-action shotgun is tailor-made to provided youths with a safe and effective smoothbore. It’s lightweight and easy to learn.

The venerable single-shot, break-action shotgun has been the right of passage for many a young shooter and sportsman. As far as “first guns” go, the safe and steady scattergun is perhaps only overshadowed by the many variations of .22 rifles.

There are good reasons why break-actions are a popular choice for youths to hone their marksmanship and gun safety skills. The design of most is inherently safe, shotguns are versatile, and overall the firearms are manageable.

Legacy Sports International added this age-old style of shotgun to its catalog recently, introducing the Youth Pointer Break Action. And at first blush, the shotgun appears to have the right combination of features to make it a dandy firearm for new shooters.

Perhaps the most important asset of the new Pointer Break Action is its slew of safety features. The shotgun — available in 12-gauge, 20-gauge and .410 — is outfitted with a manual push-button safety, located above the trigger guard. It also has two passive safeties: a hammer safety and transfer-bar safety. Both aid in avoiding a negligent discharge if the firearm is dropped.

The break-action design itself also helps in ensuring the firearm is safely handled. In particular, the gun’s hammer must be manually actuated before it can be fired, and it can be carried with the action open. The latter feature is a real safety boost for those heading into the field for the first time, allowing them to securely carry the shotgun over rough terrain without worry.

At around 5 pounds, the Pointer Break-Action shouldn’t prove to be a burden when carried by young shooters. But, the heft of the firearm should be enough to mitigate its recoil. This is a plus, given many new to firearms can be head shy about a gun’s kick. The smoothbore has a 26-inch barrel and has a 3-inch chamber on the 12- and 20-gauge model, and a 2.5-inch chamber on the .410.

It comes outfitted with a durable black-synthetic stock and has a 13-inch length of pull, which should provide a comfortable fit for a vast majority of youths. The gun also has a brass bead front sight and a fixed modified choke.

The final feature of the Pointer Break-Action shotgun that should appeal to many is its affordability. With an MSRP of $188, the shotgun should be accessible to nearly anyone searching for a firearm to teach the next generation of shooters.

Magnum Research Adds Black Tiger Stripe Desert Eagle

Drew Warden

April 20, 2016

Desert Eagle Black Tiger Stripe — The new Black Tiger Stripe finish is now available on Magnum Research Desert Eagles chambered in .50 AE and .44 Magnum.

Magnum Research has introduced black tiger stripe finish models of its classic Desert Eagle pistol. The new finish complements the company’s other finish options, which includes blued, stainless, gold and chrome.

Customized finishes have become an increasingly common trend among gun owners, whether it be on modular ARs or tactical handguns. Many manufacturers have recognized this trend and are offering specialized finishes on their firearms straight from the factory.

One gun manufacturer catering to shooters preferring a more personal finish on their firearms is Magnum Research, maker of the well-known Desert Eagle pistol. The company has offered buyers a number of custom colors and finishes, including both Zebra stripe and Gold Tiger Stripe, on its Desert Eagles. New for 2016, Magnum Research is making the Desert Eagle available with a Black Tiger Stripe finish as well.

The new Black Tiger Stripe Desert Eagles will be available in both .50 Action Express (AE) and .44 Magnum chamberings. Like other Desert Eagles, these are gas-operated pistols with a capacity of 7 rounds in the .50 AE chambering and 8 rounds in the .44 Magnum configuration. Both handguns are 10.75 inches in length and feature a 6-inch barrel, and both incorporate an ergonomically designed grip specifically formed for two-handed shooting and a Weaver-style accessory rail for optics. The .50 AE version weighs approximately 4 pounds, 5.8 ounces, while the .44 Magnum model weighs around 4 pounds, 6.6 ounces.

“While there are many people that appreciate an unadorned pistol, there are still those that feel they need something more – something that complements their personality,” stated Frank Harris, VP of Sales of Marketing. “To address those fans who want something ‘flashier,’ we have introduced our handguns in multiple colors, polished gold or chrome and even animal prints. The Black Tiger Stripe Desert Eagle was first exhibited at the 2016 SHOT Show and already we anticipate it will be one of our more popular models.”

Currently, MSRP on the new Black Tiger Stripe Desert Eagles is listed at $1,922 for the .50 AE and $1,895 for the .44 Magnum. For more info on the new Desert Eagles or other Magnum Research products, visit the company’s website.

Jerry Miculek Joins Aguila Ammunition Pro Staff

Drew Warden

April 20, 2016

One of the world’s most famous and recognized shooters joins the Pro Staff Team at Aguila Ammunition.

In the past few months, Aguila Ammunition, the Latin American ammo manufacturer known the world over for its .22-caliber ammunition, has been adding talent to its Pro Staff Team, with recent additions such as professional clay shooters Gary Fitzjarrell and David Miller. Now, the company has announced the addition of yet another Pro Staff Team member: Jerry Miculek.

Commonly known as the “Greatest Shooter of All Time,” Miculek is a 20-time world record holder and one of the most prolific and revered figures in the shooting industry. He is especially well-known for his abilities with a revolver and has earned an impressive number of titles over his shooting career, including USPSA National Revolver Champion, IDPA National Revolver Champion, IDPA World Revolver Champion, and Steel Challenge Revolver Champion. Without question, Miculek is one of the fastest and most versatile revolver shooters in the world.

Upon officially joining the Aguila Ammunition Pro Staff Team, Miculek will be representing Aguila’s rimfire product line.

“Creating a pro-staff is one of our goals for this year, and we’re ecstatic that we’ve already built an all-star shooting team,” states Kristi Drawe, Director of Marketing for Aguila. “Jerry is one of the most versatile, respected, well-known competition shooters in our industry. He is an inspiration and a role model for so many aspiring shooters and we are thrilled to have him representing the rimfire line of the Aguila brand.”

Miculek says, “Aguila rimfire ammunition offers the shooter 100% ignition, amazingly consistent accuracy, all with a clean burning propellant. With 27 different rimfire loads to choose from, there is no reason not to use Aguila. They really have a specialty round for everyone. It’s simply the best ammo and I’m happy to represent a company with such high performing products. Get some!”

For more information on the products Aguila Ammunition offers, visit the company’s website at AguilaAmmo.com.

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First Look: FN 15 Competition Rifle

Drew Warden

April 15, 2016

The FN 15 Competition Rifle is tailor-made for the competitive shooter. Find out more about this great rifle in Gun Digest’s exclusive first look video.

The popularity of 3-Gun competitions has only continued to grow in recent years, and plenty of manufacturers have begun to research, develop and release products specifically tailored for this type of competitive shooting. FN is one such company, and for 2016 the manufacturer is now offering a competition-inspired version of its classic FN 15 rifle.

The new FN 15 Competition is stacked with features that 3-Gun shooters have come to expect in their rifles. The gun has a hard-anodized blue receiver with both the upper and lower manufactured from 7075T651 billet aluminum, and an 18-inch chrome-lined, cold hammer forged barrel is free-floated inside a lightweight, 15-inch handguard with M-LOK attachment points, capitalizing on many competitive shooters’ preference for an extended grip placement.

For improved ergonomics, the rifle sports Magpul’s MOE-SL buttstock and MOE Grip and comes equipped with an ambidextrous bolt release. Performance-wise, the FN 15 Competition utilizes a Nickel-Boron coated bolt carrier assembly, a Surefire ProComp 556 Muzzle Brake, a low-profile steel gas block and a quality Timney trigger.

Pricing on the new FN 15 Competition rifle is currently listed at $2,249.

In the video above, FN 15 Product Manager JP Reconnu, provides Gun Digest with a firsthand look at the new FN 15 Competition. Watch the video to learn more about this exciting new rifle.

Stevens Introduces Model 320 12-Gauge Turkey Shotgun

Drew Warden

April 15, 2016

nr16_ST_M320_TurkeyShotgun_lg — Designed with turkey hunting in mind, the new Stevens Model 320 12-gauge Turkey Shotgun is a great choice for hunters.

Gobblers beware. Stevens has added a new 12-gauge Turkey shotgun to its classic Model 320 line just in time for the season.

The Stevens Model 320 pump-action shotgun has always been known as a solid performer, and its palatable price has made it very affordable to a wide variety of shooters. Now, coinciding with the start of many states’ spring turkey seasons, Stevens is releasing a new model specifically tailored for getting gobblers.

With shipments of the new model to dealers currently underway, the new Stevens Model 320 12-gauge Turkey Pump-Action Shotgun should be an excellent option for hunters.

The new turkey-specific model includes all the same great features that have made other Model 320 shotguns so popular, such as dual slide bars, a rotary bolt, a rugged synthetic stock and a five-round capacity. In addition to these standard features, the new gun also incorporates elements designed to give the turkey hunter an added edge, including Mossy Oak Obsession Camouflage; an extended full choke on a 22-inch, vent-rib barrel; a long, green fiber optic front sight; and a drilled and tapped receiver for mounting optics.

MSRP on the new Stevens Model 320 12-gauge Turkey Shotgun is currently listed at $280. For more information and technical specifications, visit SavageArms.com.

Know Your Cartridge: .357 Magnum

Gun Digest Editors

April 14, 2016

Introduced in 1935 by Smith & Wesson for its heavy-frame revolver, the .357 Magnum is a hard-hitting round.

The .357 Magnum chambering was introduced in 1935 by Smith & Wesson for its heavy-frame revolver. Ammunition was developed by Winchester, in cooperation with Smith & Wesson. Major Douglas B. Wesson (of S&W) and Philip B. Sharpe are credited with much of the final development work. The .357 Magnum is based on the .38 Special case lengthened about 1/10-inch, so it will not chamber in standard .38 Special revolvers. This was the most powerful handgun cartridge in the world until the .44 Magnum was introduced in 1955. Colt, Ruger, Smith & Wesson, and many others manufacture revolvers for this cartridge. This is probably the most popular high-velocity handgun cartridge in the United States for police, hunting, and target work. The .357 Magnum provides nearly double the velocity and more than three times the energy of standard .38 Special loads. It is noted for its flat trajectory, deep penetration, and great knockdown power. It is considered the best all-around handgun-hunting cartridge for small and medium game and, under proper conditions, for deer at short range. Nearly every major commercial ammunition manufacturer offers .357 Magnum ammunition.

Gallery: Top Performers at James D. Julia’s Firearms Auction

Elwood Shelton

April 14, 2016

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There has been plenty of green in Fairfield, Maine this spring, but not just from the new foliage. Instead, the town has enjoyed the green of cold, hard cash from a recent sale by one of its auction houses. James D. Julia reported grossing approximately $15 million during its March 14-15 firearms auction. And it wasn’t just the company’s ample inventory that raked in the impressive hull. The auction house offered up some highly sought-after firearms with more than 300 lots realizing $10,000 or more and 20 lots bringing in $100,000 or more. But there was plenty to get firearms collectors to break out their wallets at the gun auction, including an impressive selection of Colts and Winchesters from some renowned collections. Here is a brief look at some of the more desirable sales made at the two-day sale, including the final bid for each shotgun, rifle and pistol.

Turnbull Offering Amazing Limited-Edition Winchester 1886 Rifles

Elwood Shelton

April 14, 2016

Turnbull Manufacturing is releasing four exquisite Winchester 1886 rifles with incredible engraving.

What happened when one of America’s greatest gun designers teamed up with one of the country’s most historic manufacturers? The answer is simple — legends were born.

It’s hard to deny the late 19th Century partnership between John M. Browning and Winchester Repeating Arms was a golden age. The designer’s genius and the company’s manufacturing prowess delivered what are still considered some of the world’s most desirable firearms. And even the designs themselves have withstood the test of time with contemporary gun makers still dipping Browning’s well.

Case in point, Turnbull Manufacturing.

The New York-based custom gun maker has produced some striking specimens from the Browning-Winchester partnership over the years. But recently, the company’s master craftsmen might have outdone themselves.

Turnbull is releasing a set of four rifles based off the Winchester Model 1886 this year. And while each comes with a hefty price tag ($9,450 to $12,975), it doesn’t take much investigation to see why they demand such a premium. These rifles are truly functional works of art.

“These guns represent what happens when our engravers and designers are allowed to operate as artists on a steel canvas,” said Doug Turnbull, CEO of Turnbull Manufacturing. “Just like other artists, we will be hard pressed to let these leave, but proud to put them in the hands of their new owners. It is our hope that these become the guns that are passed down through generations in families.”

All four of the rifles — Turnbull #6, #9, #10 and Engaved 1886 —feature American black walnut stocks, 26-inch full octagon barrels and shotgun butt pads. And they each feature unique scroll patterns and game scenes from the Winchester Highly Finished Arms Catalog.

The #6 (.45-70 Govt.) has a standing buck on the left and bull moose on the right. The #9 (.45-70 Govt.) features a standing buck on the right and a running buck on the left. The #10 (.475 Turnbull) has a single scene on its left, a centerpiece of a bull elk bugling. And the Engraved 1886 (.475 Turnbull) features ornate scrollwork over the majority of the receiver. The company gives the option of charcoal blue or Turnbull’s signature case color as a finish to the receiver.

There is also a bit of a difference in stocks between the rifles. The #6 and #9 both have straight stock, while the #10 and Engraved 1886 each have pistol grips.

Certainly, there are only a select few who will take a crack at these Turnbull 1886 rifles. But from all appearances, whoever ends up with them will have some truly heirloom-quality firearms.

DoubleStar PhD 1911 a Smart Play for Self-Defense?

Elwood Shelton

April 14, 2016

DoubleStar’s newest line of 1911s sounds wicked smart. But a shooter doesn’t need to be a genius to see what the Kentucky gun maker is aiming at with its PhD 1911.

In short, the pistol is tailored for concealed carry holsters and nightstands as a full-sized defensive option. In turn, DoubleStar’s PhD isn’t a doctor of philosophy, but meant for “Personal Home Defense”.

The company’s new defensive .45 ACP has a solid roster of features.

The 33-ounce gun has aggressive rear cocking serrations, making the slide easier to manipulate. It is outfitted with Express sights from XS, featuring a tritium front sight; this should aid in quick target acquisition, especially in low-light situations.

A nice touch that should aid in acquiring and keeping a solid sight picture is DoubleStar flat-topping the pistol and serrating the top strap. This little finishing touch goes a long way in reducing glare.

The PhD 1911 also features a number of ergonomic considerations that should make the pistol more manageable and comfortable to shoot. It has a rounded grip, giving shooters a more solid purchase on the gun. It is outfitted with a Wilson Combat high-ride beavertail grip safety, meaning the handgun’s bore axis should be more in line with a shooter’s arm — thus helping mitigate its recoil.

Surprisingly, one feature absent from the first in the new line is any sort of accessories rail. This has become a pretty standard feature in most firearms designed for defensive purposes.

Presently, the MSRP on the DoubleStar PhD 1911 is $1,364.06.

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Tactical Walls Introduces RFID Locking Models

Drew Warden

April 12, 2016

Tactical Walls has expanded its home firearms storage product line to include RFID locking models, making access quicker and easier than ever.

RFID-003-1200 — The new RFID models permit even greater security as well as quicker and easier accessibility in home defense scenarios.

Well known for its “hidden in plain sight” philosophy of home firearms storage, Tactical Walls has become a serious innovator in the category of secure storage with products that look like normal pieces of home decor but actually securely house firearms and accessories. Now, the company has added RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) locking models to its lineup.

The RFID models will afford users even greater security as well as quicker and easier accessibility, a crucial element in any good home defense strategy. The RFID locking mechanism will be available as an optional alternative to Tactical Walls’ existing magnetic locking system on the following models:

1450M Bundle – MSRP’s range $630-760
1420M Bundle – MSRP’s range $500-660
825 Pistol Length Shelf (PLS) – MSRP’s range $435-495
812 Pistol Length Shelf (PLS) – MSRP’s range $219-349

RFID-007-1000 — A simple swipe of the preset RFID card opens the unit for easy access. A “Tattle Tale” feature alerts the user when the device is left open.

RFID-009-1000 — Tactical Walls products really are “hidden in plain sight,” disguised as everyday home decor products like mirrors, shelves and much more.

Each unit will include two standard key cards and one programming card for matching the key to the proper unit; however, more RFID cards can also be ordered. One key card can be programmed to access multiple units for firearms staged throughout the home, and multiple cards can also be programmed to open a single device to provide access for additional family members. Once programmed, swiping the RFID card in front of the locking mechanism is all that’s needed to access firearms.

RFID models also come standard with a programmable “Tattle Tale” function that—when turned on—begins beeping if the device has been left open for a certain period of time. This feature, which can be disabled if preferred, alerts users and helps prevent unwanted access to firearms. In the event that the RFID locking mechanism’s battery does run out, the unit defaults to being unlocked but closed.

Tim Matter, founder of Tactical Walls, said, “The addition of the RFID locks to our line-up is a key step in the direction this company is going. We aim to be the leader in home firearms storage by offering a wide variety of options for firearms owners to safely store their guns out of sight. The new RFID models, combined with a growing selection of finish and trim options, give our customers a greater level of customization to how they want their Tactical Walls concealment system to look and function.”

Pricing on the new RFID models ranges from $219 to $760 depending on model and choice of trim and finish options.

Gear of the Year: Best Optics of 2015

David Hart

April 11, 2016

Manufacturers have produced a number of optics over the course of the past year. Here’s a look at our picks for the best optics of 2015.

What’s the difference between a good scope and a great one? That’s a question you don’t want to ask when the buck of a lifetime is staring at you from across the canyon. Quality glass—spotting scopes, binoculars, riflescopes and rangefinders—can mean the difference between a successful hunt or a bust, a win or loss at the range.

The good news? We made your job a little easier by taking a close look at the countless optics available today and whittling the choices to the best of the best. Yeah, they will probably set you back a pretty penny, but you know what they say: You get what you pay for. Besides, what quality piece of equipment isn’t expensive these days?

Trijicon AccuPower

Trijicon’s newest offering is a deviation from their battery-free, tritium-lighted reticle, but it’s a winner by its own right. The AccuPower’s illuminated reticle is powered by a lithium battery, which lasts at least 31 hours at the highest setting and includes 11 settings with an “off” feature between each setting. Lining up the bull’s eye in the lowest light is as easy as looking through the scope. The full multi-layer coated glass allows crisp edge-to-edge views and super-high light transmission. The second focal plane reticle gives long-range shooters a clear view of the smallest targets. Each scope is available in at least three reticle choices, and you can choose from 1-4×24, 2.5-10×56, 3-9×40 and 4-16×50. ($699; Trijicon.com)

Swarovski X5

Swarovksi’s X5 long-range scope is the first true long-range scope from the Austrian company. It’s available in three versions: 3.5-18×50, 5-25×56 and 5-25×56, which offers 1/8 or 1/4 MOA impact point adjustment. All three are built with Swarovski’s high standards and highest quality materials. Like other Swarovski products, the X5 isn’t cheap, but it will be the last long-range scope you’ll ever buy. The wide field of view allows for rapid target acquisition, the fully multi-coated lenses offer maximum light transmission and clarity, and the high-contrast reticle gives you the ability to see the smallest details. All three models include a sub-zero feature that allows you to go below the sight-in distance for close targets, and all three offer three different reticles. The 5-25 has a max elevation MOA of 82 and a max windage MOA of 50. ($3,499; SwarovskiOptik.com)

Steiner M5Xi 3-15×50 Military Optic

You don’t have to join the military to get the best equipment in the world. You’ll have to pay for it yourself, of course, but when your pride, your elk tag or your standing in the shooting competition is on the line, who wouldn’t want a scope used by our military’s top shooters? Steiner’s German-made M5Xi is perfect for competition shooters as well as hunters who stretch out their shots. An 11-stage illuminated G2B Mil-Dot or MSR reticle allows for precision shots in any light condition, and the patented DuoScale elevation knob lets you make fast adjustments in the field. The 34mm tube is waterproof and shockproof. The elevation range is 26 mils at 100 meters and the windage range is 6 mils at 100 meters. ($3,329.99; Steiner-Optics.com)

Nikon ProStaff 7i

Some of the best optics don’t require you to choose between new equipment and your kid’s college tuition. Nikon’s new Prostaff 7i rangefinder isn’t just perfect for budget-minded mothers and fathers, it’s faster, lighter, more accurate and just plain better than many of the other rangefinders available today. It takes just a half-second to accurately measure out to 1,300 yards. It’s small enough to carry anywhere and for any type of hunting. It weighs just 6.2 ounces, and the viewer has 6x magnification. Measured increments are .1 yards out to 1,000 yards and 1 yard from 1,000 to 1,300 yards. It’s waterproof and includes a target priority switch, allowing you to measure overlapping subjects, and it comes with a horizontal and actual distance display mode. ($299.95; NikonSportOptics.com)

G7 BR2 Rangefinder

The G7 BR2 is packed with features that help all shooters and hunters make better shots, but hands down, it’s the best tool for long-range enthusiasts. It’s programmable for up to five cartridge combinations, and inputs include ballistic coefficient, sight height, muzzle velocity, altitude and temperature. Onboard sensors measure the incline angle, barometric pressure and altitude. Shoot-to range works with BDC and holdover reticles. With a functional range of 1,500 yards, a 7x magnification and a weight of just 14.3 ounces, you’ll carry this tool when you need to make every shot count. ($1,599; GSeven.com)

Nightforce TS80

Nightforce’s newest spotting scope, the TS-80 Hi-Def 20-60x, is a follow-up to its award-winning TS-82, the company’s first spotting scope model. The TS-80 is a winner, too. It’s not just fast and easy to use; it comes with all the features you need in a spotting scope. It’s built with fully multi-coated lenses and an internal prism design for maximum light transmission. It offers a bright, clear view at all distances. A large, knurled focus ring allows for fast target focus, and a magnesium alloy body gives you peace of mind every time you take the TS-80 out of its case. It weighs 68 ounces.
($1,595; Nightforceoptics.com)

Swarovski ATX

Is it any wonder the name Swarovski shows up on “Best Of” lists everywhere? Pick up any of the company’s products, put your eyes to it and you’ll see why. Swarovski’s newest spotting scope, the ATX, is another first-class product. Built with the highest quality glass, the best materials and industry-leading standards, the ATX is right at home in the most rugged backcountry or on a perfectly manicured rifle range. The objective lens is available in either a straight or angled eyepiece to suit your style of glassing, and one-hand operation allows for easy and comfortable use. Available in 25-60×65, 30-70×95 and 25-60×85 and weighing just 55.9 ounces, you’ll see your target clearer and at longer distances than ever before. ($3,775; SwarovskiOptik.com)

Aimpoint Micro T-2

“Micro” is certainly an appropriate name for Aimpoint’s new Micro T-2 sight. Weighing just 3.7 ounces (including the mount) and measuring just 2.7 inches long, it’s the ideal 1x, 2-MOA red dot sight for shooters of all stripes. It works on handguns, shotguns and rifles and even as a piggyback sight. An integral Picatinny-style base attaches to any rail. The T-2 has four night vision-compatible settings and eight daylight settings. If that’s not enough, the battery lasts up to 50,000 hours. The lenses allow maximum light transmission for fast and crystal-clear target acquisition. ($736; Aimpoint.com)

Zeiss Victory SF

Zeiss’ new Victory SF binoculars may cost more than your first car, but you’ll never have to buy another pair of binoculars again. Built with a seven-lens element eyepiece and a field flattener for sharp, bright images, the Victory SF binoculars are available in 8×42 and 10×42. They have some of the widest fields of view in the industry. Zeiss built them with a faster focusing wheel and a new design that fits in your hands better, feels better and reduces fatigue better than any pair of binoculars you’ve held before. They weigh just 27.5 ounces and are backed with a limited no-fault lifetime warranty. ($2,888.87; Zeiss.com)

Maven B1 8×42

You may have never heard of Maven, but don’t let that fool you. The small Wyoming-based company only makes three binocular models, which means they can focus on quality and customer service. Their B1 weighs less than 30 ounces and is available in 8×42 and 10×42 models. The view is bright, crisp and crystal-clear from edge-to-edge. The glass allows nearly 92-percent light transmission. If quality craftsmanship isn’t enough, Maven allows you to build a custom pair with your favorite color combinations. Wrap it in your choice of two solid or five camo patterns and customize everything from the focus knob to the lens rings in eight color choices. What better way to personalize the binoculars you’ll carry around your neck every time you shoot or hunt? ($900; MavenBuilt.com)

Vortex Razor HD

Vortex may not carry the name recognition of the better-known European companies, but their products are everything you could want in optics. The Razor HD binoculars are not only packed with features, they are light, sturdy and just plain easy to carry and use. Fully multi-coated glass allows maximum light transmission, and HD lens elements offer a clear, true sight picture. These roof prism binoculars weigh just 24.8 ounces and are available in 8×42, 10×42, 10×50 and 12×50. They are waterproof and fog proof and are coated with a durable rubber armor to protect them from all the abuse you can dish out. ($1,499; VortexOptics.com)

Swarovski 8×42 EL Range

Tired of carrying a rangefinder and binoculars? Not only did Swarovski solve that dilemma, they solved it with the best available technology in a single product. Their new EL Range range-finding binoculars offer immediate ranging from 33 to 1,500 yards and include a scan mode to measure moving targets. The angle-adjustment display helps take the guesswork out of distances at various angles. Just point, click and shoot. They also include an auto-brightness option. Available in 8×42 and 10×42, the EL Range binoculars have a 411-foot field of view at 1,000 yards and offer 91 percent light transmission, thanks to Swarovski’s highest quality glass. They weigh just 31.6 ounces. ($3,577; SwarovskiOptik.com)

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Tactical Walls has expanded its home firearms storage product line to include RFID locking models, making access quicker and easier than ever.

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