Top Turkey Guns for 2014

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March 26, 2014

Turkey Guns for 2014: Beretta A400 Xtreme

In the American auto-loading shotgun market, Beretta has invested its money and marketing pretty heavily into the waterfowl side of the business, but its new A400 Extreme is just as capable of tagging a tom as it is a big honker.

That’s especially the case if you stuff the tube full of 3½-inch magnum strut stoppers, which the Extreme version of the A400 is capable of handling with aplomb. If the thought of shooting off such a shoulder-bruising load makes you wince, consider that the Beretta is fitted with a third-generation Kick-Off dampening system that uses hydraulics built into the stock to reduce felt recoil by what the Italians claim is 60 percent.

Still not convinced? That’s okay, because the A400’s Unico designation signifies it’s designed to function without a hitch using a wide variety of loads, from those thumping 3½-inchers to a standard, low-brass field load.

You’ll really appreciate that on the patterning board when you’re dialing in your sights before season. The Blink gas-operated action is also fast and reliable, thanks to a cylinder and piston design that vents excess gases and scrubs itself clean with each pull of the trigger.

By very definition the spring turkey woods can be dripping wet. However, the A400 shrugs off moisture and its harmful effects with what Beretta calls Aqua Technology, which includes stainless steel or plated components to resist corrosion. Of the two camo versions available, I’d opt for the Optifade version with a 26-inch barrel. ($1895; berettausa.com)

Browning Maxus All-Purpose

While owning a separate shotgun for every outdoor pursuit is great for gun manufacturers, it can be hard on the average hunter’s gear budget. Better instead is a one-gun mentality that handily takes a hunter throughout the season, like something along the lines of Browning’s aptly named Maxus All-Purpose.

When the original Maxus was introduced a few years back, Browning loyalists raved about the Power Drive gas system’s ability to swallow anything they fed it, and the All-Purpose should be just as reliable. Expect it to cycle light field loads and heavy, high-brass magnums, including those 3½-inch loads serious turkey hunters have grown so fond of.

The Power Drive system, along with a Vector Pro forcing cone, should also reduce recoil to tolerable levels under those heavy loads, and the extended cone reduces the likelihood of lead shot deformation and the resulting scattered patterns that so often result in a miss.

Because Browning expects hunters to carry the Maxus All-Purpose from spring to fall, it packages the autoloader with four Invector-Plus chokes, including an extra-full tube for the turkey (and coyote) hunter.

Slings that are so handy in the turkey woods are often shunned by waterfowl and upland hunters, but thanks to a unique Speed Lock system, straps can be quickly removed, as can the composite forearm for easier cleaning. Both the forend and stock are finished in Mossy Oak Infinity and featured a textured surface for a sure grip. ($1,679; browning.com)

Mossberg FLEX 20-Guage — Mossberg FLEX 20-Gauge

Mossberg FLEX 20-Gauge

While there are a lot of turkey hunters clamoring for bigger, faster, harder-hitting ways to reach out and touch stubborn toms at previously unheard of distances, there’s a just-as-passionate part of the market that likes calling turkeys in as close as possible.

It’s open to interpretation as to who of the two is the masochist, but one thing the latter group doesn’t have to worry about is a separated shoulder, as they often reach for smaller-gauge guns when they head into the woods.

Once such option is the Mossberg FLEX, now available in a 20-gauge version that the company just released to the public earlier this year. Like the 12-gauge FLEX, the 20 is built on a venerable and reliable Mossberg 500 receiver with all the same adaptive capabilities the LEGO-like system is known for.

Don’t take the toy reference to mean this Mossberg isn’t up to the tough task of turkey hunting. Instead it’s in reference to the system’s ability to build your gun just about any way you like using all the available FLEX accessories, including sliding and standard, fixed stocks, pistol grips and Picatinny-fitted pump forends—all without the use of tools. Just snap and go. No other manufacturer offers such a customizable option.

The FLEX 20-gauge is currently offered in tactical and hunter versions, both of which would truthfully be perfect for turkey hunting, depending on the user’s preference.

Me? I’d carry the FLEX Hunter, which features a standard, straight stock covered in Mossy Oak Infinity and OD-green receiver and barrel, which happens to come in a short, 24-inch barrel with an X-Factor ported choke tube screwed in. ($484 & up depending on model; mossberg.com)

Remington Versamax Sportsman Turkey

I’ve written about Remington’s reliable Versamax in this space before and it continues to be the gun I turn to the most when I head into the field. My favorite feature is its soft-on-the-shoulder attributes, even when firing heavy magnum loads, thanks to the unique gas system and a proprietary SuperCell recoil pad.

The Versamax remains what I consider the softest recoiling autoloader on the market, although Benelli’s new Ethos does give it a run for its money.

Much has already been said about the gas operating system’s shot-after-shot performance with every shell on the market, so I’ll leave the specifics of that to the rest of gun scribes still playing catch-up. Instead, let’s talk about what the turkey-specific model offers hunters heading into the woods this spring.

Compact from the barrel back, the Versamax Sportsman Turkey is fitted with a short, 22-inch vent rib barrel that swings easy in the thick, tight brush of late spring.

It also eases the weight to a manageable 7.4 pounds, something runners and gunners will appreciate. Up top, Remington’s rifle sights put the payload on target, although it’s worth noting the receiver is drilled and tapped should a hunter want to mount optics for even more precise aiming.

The extended choke tube is of the extra-full variety. The entire package is camouflaged in Mossy Oak Obsession. ($1,025; remington.com)

Winchester Super-X Turkey Hunter

Woodsmen wanting a dedicated turkey gun without shelling out a grand for an autoloader would do well considering Winchester’s pump gun—the Super-X Turkey Hunter.

Everything about this slide-action is designed with taming spring thunder, including a 22-inch barrel that’s been back-bored at .742 inches to combine with the Invector-Plus Extra Full Turkey choke for patterns that stay tight, even at extended ranges.

Of course, the receiver is capable of handling 3½-inch magnum loads, proving that pump-gun hunters don’t need any wussy auto-loading actions to tame that kind of recoil.

That said, Winchester did consider shooter’s shoulders by adding an Inflex Technology recoil pad to soften those blows somewhat. The innovative design pushes recoil slightly down and away from the shooter’s face to ease the sharp kick.

For faster follow-up shots, the inertia-assisted slide action gets a boost from the recoiling shotgun and slams back into battery solidly and securely thanks to four-lug rotary bolt.

Built to withstand the rigors of a fickle spring, as well as a lifetime of wear and tear, the Super-X features a chromed chamber and bore that resists the corrosive effects of burnt powder and moisture.

The composite stock features a textured grip for a secure grip even when wet or muddy. Rifle-like sights are fully adjustable to dial in just the right windage and elevation to put an early end to any tom’s spring fling. And it features Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity camo. ( $520; winchesterguns.com)

70 Years of Gun Digest

By

Jerry Lee

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March 26, 2014

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Since World War II, Gun Digest has been the gun book by which all others are measured.

“The Gun Digest is dedicated to the millions of American sportsmen who love guns. It is our sincere hope and belief that this book will bring to its readers a greater enjoyment of hunting and shooting—and a deeper appreciation of fine guns and gun lore.”

The year was 1944 and the above words were included in the dedication of the first edition of Gun Digest. It was not exactly a good time to be shopping for a new gun.

World War II was in its third year and many consumer products were being rationed or restricted, including guns, which were being made exclusively for the military or law enforcement. But even though they couldn’t walk into a store and buy a new gun, hunters and shooters could feed their thirst for knowledge about their favorite hobby by way of the written word.

Few books or magazine articles were being written at the time that included a wide spectrum of information for the serious gun enthusiast. Follett Publishing Co., a former book publisher in Chicago, recognized this void in the marketplace and came up with the idea of Gun Digest.

The editor was Charles R. Jacobs, who perhaps should get credit for creating the book. It’s also likely that the timing was to take advantage of the predictable surge in firearms interest that would follow the end of the war.

That first edition sold out quickly. Among the contributors was none other than Jack O’Connor, the leading shooting writer of the generation. His article was “Choosing the Big Game Rifle” and given the cartridges that were around in 1944, O’Connor’s advice is still good today.

Interspersed throughout that first edition were catalog excerpts with specifications and prices as they were at the beginning of the war—for instance, a Winchester Model 70 for $78.25, a Parker VHE double at $140 and a Colt 1911A1 at $44.75. Those were the days, remember, when $55 a week was the average income.

In 1951, the 5th edition introduced editor John Amber. For the next 30 years he would be Mr. Gun Digest. Amber is best remembered for his devotion to the American custom rifle and for establishing the section in the book that to this day honors the craftsmen who build the world’s most beautiful firearms.

Some readers may wonder about “70 years of Gun Digest” and why the 2014 book is the 68th edition. It’s because the second through the fourth editions were bi-annual. The first 1944 edition was followed by 1945/1946, 1947/1948 and 1949/1950. Starting in 1951, the book became an annual publication.

The 68th edition is now in bookstores and here are a few highlights. It’s always a pleasure to work with Phil Schreier, senior curator of the NRA’s National Firearms Museum.

In this 68th edition, Phil writes about President Teddy Roosevelt’s love affair with Winchester lever actions, including superb photos of the ones on display at the museum.

Other articles cover Mannlicher-Schoenauer rifles, custom Ruger six guns, online gun auctions, wildcat cartridges, behind-the-scene looks at Hodgdon and Norma, and much more.

Be sure to get your copy of the 2014 edition on sale now!

Get the Gun Digest Annual Book

Gun Digest 2014

Gun Digest 2013

1944-2013 3-Disc Gun Digest Digital Library

Maximizing Shooting Efficiency for Turkey Hunting

By

Alan Clemons

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March 26, 2014

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turkey hunting — Before you load up and hunt, you must know the maximum effective range of your gun, choke and load combination. That can only be accomplished by spending time at the range.

Critical aspects of bringing home a long beard happen way before the start of turkey season. Testing to discover the maximum range of your gun and the most effective combination of choke and loads are preseason musts.

Killing turkeys at longer distances is possible with today’s plethora of ammunition and choke tubes. A critical factor, of course, is the hunter’s personal ethic and comfortable kill zone. For some, that’s within 30 yards. For others, it might be farther. That’s part of the hunting process we have to decide and must live with.

Maximizing long-range efficiency with your shotgun and ammunition requires trial and error at the range.

Ammunition and choke tubes are expensive, so combining efforts with fellow hunters is a good way to spend time learning about which setup works best for you. Three or four hunters chipping in, bringing chokes and ammo and spending a few hours patterning loads is paramount to discovering what works best so you’ll be comfortable in the woods.

“At 40 or 50 steps, or any range for that matter, I want to get 10 hits in the kill zone of a life-size turkey head target with an even pattern that surrounds it,” said Brandon Wallace, a 33-year-old Alabama hunter and founder of Wallace Custom Calls. He’s chased turkeys for two decades.

“It only takes one hit in the bone of a turkey head to put it down for the count. Lots of guns and loads do this at 30 yards, and many will also do it farther. Everyone likes the holy grail of 300 pellets in a 10-inch circle, which is awesome, but it takes a special load, choke and lots of range time to do it.”

Know Your Limitations

Wallace noted that, “Some guns might be 30-yard guns, and some might be 50 and beyond,” which is why range time is so critical. Clark Bush, founder of AllAboutShooting.com, has spent hundreds of hours at the range testing chokes, shotguns and ammunition through the years, and he agreed that knowing your setup’s efficiency — and limitations — makes all the difference.

“I buy butcher paper by the rolls and spend a lot of time at the range,” Bush said. “I shoot everyone’s chokes, guns and ammo. There’s no way to know how a gun patterns until you’re at the range.

“I’m not into numbers (of pellets) as much as I want to see a good, even core density within a 10-inch circle at 40 yards, or a 14-inch halo around it and good density. It’s not subjective. If it has a gap in it of more than 2 inches, I don’t find that acceptable. The problem I see with that is (hunters) pattern these in the middle of summer, and we hunt mostly in spring and autumn. Those patterns are affected greatly by ambient temperature and density.”

Time or financial constraints might keep hunters from getting to the range several times a year in various seasons. But Bush believes it’s necessary to shoot in different seasons and weather conditions to truly discover what your gun and ammunition can do.

Turkey hunters dream of gorgeous spring days, warm temperatures and sunny skies. But the reality is we might have a late winter, hotter-than-normal temperatures or a late cold front that blows in. If you have only patterned your gun in summer, those cold temperatures could alter the dynamic of the shot pattern.

Pick The Right Choke
Mark Bansner spent years designing and refining choke tubes for hunters and competitive shooters, working in thousandths of degrees of constriction to create maximum downrange patterns.

Today, Bansner is out of the choke business and instead focuses on designing custom rifles from his company headquarters in Pennsylvania. He’s applying his knowledge of shotguns and accuracy to rifles, and believes turkey hunters can do the same to maximize their success.

“I think the No. 1 thing is to have a gun with a barrel that’s 24 inches long,” Bansner said. “I think that’s the optimal length for a shotgun barrel. Shotgun powders burn extremely quick and are exhausted by the time the shot column gets to about 22 or 23 inches. Anything longer than that actually slows it down. I proved that more than 25 years ago by cutting barrels in 1-inch increments and chronographing it.

“After hundreds of rounds, I determined … there’s no real difference between 18 and 24 inches, but 21 to 24 inches is perfect. From a power and velocity standpoint, the barrel should be 21 to 24 inches. From a patterning standpoint, in the old days, copper-coated was king, and I was an advocate of using a larger pellet. But with today’s alloy loads and heavier loads, like tungsten polymers, their No. 5 shot is equivalent of the penetrating qualities of No. 4 lead.”

Wallace noted the Nitro combos, such as the 5-by-6-by-7, and other turkey loads today are combinations of different shot sized or souped-up polymers. Some turkey hunters stick with lead pellets — for tradition, finances or both — as their top performer. Whatever the load, Bansner said matching the choke tube to the ammo is keenly important to get the best results.

“Pellet size is critical,” Bansner said. “You might shoot 6s or 7s and get 40 or more pellets in the head (area), but you might not be doing anything with them if the energy isn’t there. Knowing the limitation of your gun is important. Once you figure that out, the choke systems today, and even the ones we were producing years ago, will help.”

Editor's note, this article appeared in the 2014 Turkey and Turkey Hunting‘s Equipment Guide.

Recommended Resources

Gun Digest Guide to Modern Shotgunning

Gun Digest Shooter's Guide to Shotguns

Reloading for Shotgunners

Video: Appendix Carry Lesson with Rob Pincus

By

Corey Graff

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March 25, 2014

2

Rob Pincus goes over some basics of every man's most nerve-racking form of concealed carry—appendix carry. Learn how it's done and why you should give it a try.

Source: The Talking Lead Channel

Learn More From Rob Pincus

Defend Yourself

Combat Focus Shooting DVD

Combat Focus Shooting Evolution 2010 (Book)

Counter Ambush (Book)

Ruger Bearcat Shopkeeper, Sweet and Petite .22 Revolver

By

B. Gil Horman

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March 25, 2014

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.22 Revolver — Lipsey's exclusive New Model Bearcat Shopkeeper.

Ruger's classic .22 single-action revolver becomes even more compact with this bird’s head grip version available from Lipsey’s.

Enter the Shopkeeper

Some new-age guru said if you wish hard enough the things you desire will eventually come to you. Thanks to the psychically attuned folks at Ruger, the bird’s-head Bearcat I've been thinking of is now available. It's called the Shopkeeper, in honor of those businessmen who preferred the more easily concealed bird’s-head revolvers for protection in the old days.

The Shopkeeper is based on the current Ruger New Model Bearcat single-action .22 revolver, but with a few key changes. Unlike other versions of this revolver that contain some aluminum components, this one features an all-stainless-steel construction, including the ejector rod housing. The sights consist of a rounded blade up front, and a fixed square notch rear sight that's milled into the top strap. The barrel and ejector shroud have been shortened from 4 to 3 inches.

To accommodate a shorter distance for the ejector rod to travel, the rod's lever has been cut into a crescent shape. This allows it to move past the top of the reduced cylinder pinhead, all the way to the frame. The nonfluted cylinder is engraved with the same nature scene that graces other models. The bird’s-head grip is fitted with medallion rosewood grip panels. Like the other Ruger New Model single-actions, the Bearcat has a transfer bar safety that allows the gun to be carried with all six chambers loaded.

As expected, the fit and finish of the Shopkeeper are excellent. Some manufacturers provide factory-installed dings and scratches in the finish of their guns. But Ruger made sure this one arrived in pristine condition, as is only proper. The fit of the trigger guard to the receiver is so nicely done you have to look for the seam.

Smooth Operators

The shorter barrel and rounded grip of the Shopkeeper look terrific, and even better, proved to be fun to shoot as well. The hammer and trigger were both smooth operators, with the short, crisp trigger tipping the Lyman's digital trigger gauge at 4 pounds, 2 ounces. The bird’s-head grip seats itself comfortably and intuitively in the hand. The revolver's excellent balance and mild recoil make it a shoot-all-day kind of handgun.

The Shopkeeper was test fired with several flavors of .22 Long Rifle ammunition, ranging from bulk-box varieties to high-performance hollow points. Every round inserted and fired properly, but early on some would not eject, even with repeated taps from the ejector rod. This was not due to the shortened ejector. Removing the cylinder and tapping at the stuck cartridge cases with a cleaning rod showed they were stuck because of some factory-fresh chamber roughness. Over the course of testing, the rough chambers smoothed out and ran as expected.

Since the .22 revolver is technically a sub-compact handgun, accuracy testing was conducted using five 5-shot groups fired from a bench rest at 15 yards. This also happens to be a good plinking distance for new shooters. Groups hovered right around the 1.5-inch mark, with the best groups at the 1.25-inch range. Working from a bench rest at 25 yards was also a satisfying experience, with groups hovering comfortably around the 2- to 2.5-inch range.

What makes the Shopkeeper just that, a keeper, is that it offers both good looks and provides top-notch functionality. This version of the Ruger New Model Bearcat is a Lipsey’s exclusive item. So if you would like one, but you don't know which shops in your area are authorized Lipsey's dealers, then visit www.lipseys.com and click on DEALER FINDER to locate one near you.

Lipsey’s Ruger Bearcat Shopkeeper Specifications
Caliber: .22 LR
Capacity: 6 rounds
Barrel: 3”
Sights: Fixed
Frame: Satin Stainless Steel
Trigger: Single-Action
Length: 8”
Weight: 22 oz.
Options: Bird’s Head Hardwood grips, engraving
Suggested Retail Price: $649

Editor's Note: This article appeared in the October 21, 2013 edition of Gun Digest the Magazine.

El Paso Saddlery’s Stunning Ruger Bearcat Holster

By

B. Gil Horman

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March 25, 2014

0

El Paso Saddlery offers the Bearcat Shopkeeper owner an exquisite and authentic option to holster their .22 revolver.

It would be a shame to carry a beautiful Ruger Bearcat bird's head Shopkeeper in anything less than a quality western-style rig, like those provided by El Paso Saddlery.

A popular rig for those who want both period aesthetics and in-the-field functionality is the hybrid #44 Outfitter holster and belt. The holster has a rollover lining for an easy draw and the belt is sewn rough-side out so it will stay put on your waist.

But could a #44 rig be pulled together for a diminutive 3-inch barrel .22 revolver?

The answer was yes; it would not be a problem at all. The holster was trimmed down and the belt sewn with .22-friendly cartridge loops instead of the usual .45 caliber loops. The result was a handsome holster and belt that are a perfect match for this gun.

Investing in quality like this means they can be used and enjoyed together for years to come.

El Paso Saddlery offers a variety of holster and belt options for cowboy action shooting, concealed carry, and hunting handguns. They are willing to work with their customers to make the changes needed for a perfect fit.

Modifying the design or finish of an El Paso Saddlery carry system may change the delivery date or price point, but for what you get, it's well worth it! For more information, visit epsaddlery.com, or call 915-544-2233.

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- Best Concealed Carry Fanny Pack – Pros & Cons

Video: Sighting in a Rifle in Two Shots

By

Elwood Shelton

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March 24, 2014

1

Getting a rifle to knock the “X” out of the bull's eye can either be a pleasure or a frustration, depending on who's behind the trigger. Making matters a little more simple is Doug Painter of the National Shooting Sports Foundation, who in this video gives a quick and easy technique to get a gun on target in two shots.

There seems to be two huge advantages to sighting in a rifle this way: It's a time saver and it cuts down on the ammunition needed to get scoped in. Given the fluctuations in ammo supplies as of late, the second factor certainly has become a consideration any time a shooter goes to the range.

Clever as the two-shoot technique appears to be, it does seem to demand a certain level of marksmanship to be effective. Consistent trigger pull and proper breath control are among a few of the skills that will have to be mastered in full before this method of sighting in can be expected to pay dividends. But once they have, this appears to be a valuable tool for a shooters to have in their repertoires.

Scope Out These Resources

ABCs of Rifle Shooting

Mastering the Art of Long Range Shooting

The Art Of The Rifle

Video: Crazy Russian Tactical Counter-Terror Drills

By

Elwood Shelton

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March 21, 2014

0

First off, ABSOLUTELY under no circumstances should you attempt what you are about to watch in this video. No ifs, ands or buts!

With that said, this without a doubt has to be one of the craziest set of live-fire tactical drills in use today. Larry Vickers of Vickers Tactical, Inc., travels to Russia and gets a firsthand look at the tactical exercises in use by that county's Special Forces. As Vickers and the Russians explains in the video, the idea behind these drills are to prepare operators for counter-terror actions. They demand speed, accuracy and supreme judgement out of shooters under the tensest, yet the most delicate situations. Man, running through these drills would take nerves of steel and the chops to match.

Drills, Skills and Gear

Defensive Pistol Fundamentals

StealthGearUSA IWB Holster

Deadly Force: Understanding Your Right to Self Defense

AR-15 Review: The Colt AR15A4

By

Robb Manning

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March 21, 2014

3

Colt AR15A4 Review

I am a long time user of Colt rifles. As one of Uncle Sam’s Misguided Children (USMC) I was issued a Colt M16A2, and that’s what I carried and qualified with for most of my 11-year career.

One of my first personally owned firearms that I purchased was a Colt AR-15 Sporter Match HBAR rifle, which I still own, and is my only experience with Colt since getting out of the Marines. In 2004, the Marine Corps retired the A2, and adopted the M16A4.

Improvements included a flattop receiver with removable carry handle and quad-rail hand guards made by Knight’s Armament Corporation (KAC).

A Colt for Today

Upon learning I would be reviewing the Colt AR15A4, I was curious to see if it would be made like my Sporter. As good as the Sporter was, it had some limitations compared to my old military-issued M16.

Bone Up On Legendary Colt Firearms

My least favorite feature was the pivot pin used instead of a front takedown pin. It didn’t allow for the upper receiver to be completely removed from the upper. It was a different size than standard takedown pins, so it couldn’t be replaced with a proper one either.

The half-bolt carrier group (BCG), made to prevent the gun owner from illegally modifying their AR to full auto, was also a feature of the old gun that I’d never been fond of, not because I ever had any intention of doing that, but because it made it harder to swap it out with standard aftermarket parts to ramp up its performance.

In fact, the old Sporter used several other nonstandard parts, such as the trigger pin and hammer pin that limit its customization using today’s wide variety of AR aftermarket parts.

The AR15A4 comes standard with a 30-round Magpul magazine. Patrick Hayes Photo

Naturally, I wanted to see if Colt was still making their ARs with that forward takedown pin and half-BCG. So upon receiving the rifle the first thing was to look at the front takedown pin, which was in fact not a pivot pin (Colt did away with the pivot pin in the early 2000s). So far, so good.

Next was to open the two takedown pins and separate the receivers, then pull the charging handle and pop out the BCG. It is a standard BCG, and not a half-BCG. It’s a relief to see that Colt has corrected these discrepancies. Further, as of 2009 all pins are standard size.

First Impressions

My first impression is that it is very well made and it can be seen in the details. For example, the selector switch on many ARs has a little bit of play when in the safe position.

The AR15A4 doesn’t have that problem—the selector snaps securely into the safe position with absolutely no play. This is nothing short of a high-quality rifle with all the features you would expect from Colt. One other thing, having become accustomed to AR carbines, it’s been a long time since picking up a full-sized AR, and I have to say it felt good.

The AR15A4 is nearly identical to the M16A4 in every way, with a few notable exceptions. First and most noticeable is the select fire. The M16A4 has burst capabilities for military use, while the AR-15A4 does not.

Second, the selector switch is ambidextrous. Another difference is the AR15A4 has M4 feed ramps, which is not really necessary on a full-size rifle, but it definitely doesn’t hurt, either.

Less noticeable, inside the lower receiver behind the trigger group and hammer is a sear web built in to prevent illegal modifications. Another difference from the A4 issued to Marines is the front handguard.

The Marine Corps issues their rifles with KAC quad-rails, but understandably Colt is not going to equip their rifles with accessories from a competitor, so they went with A2-style handguards.

It comes in two other model configurations: the AR15A4MP-FDE, which is nearly identical except for Flat Dark Earth (FDE) Magpul MOE furniture and an MBUS Gen 2 rear site; and the AR15A4MPFDE, which has all that plus the receivers are FDE coated.

The rifle has a good trigger and trigger reset. It’s definitely not an aftermarket trigger, but feels exactly like a government-issue trigger because it is. Some might complain about that, but this is what a grunt cuts his teeth on, and it works. It’s not the lightest and smoothest, but it’s rock solid and dependable.

Full-Sized Functionality

The A2-style open sights were on center with just two shots and provided for great off-hand, rapid-fire accuracy. Author Photo

AR carbines have taken the market by storm, but there are benefits to the full-sized AR rifle. The extra barrel length adds weight out front, so muzzle rise is negligible. It’s easy to forget how fast follow-up shots are with the full-length rifle.

Some would argue that the full-length gas system is also more reliable than carbine length. While technically that could be true, carbine-length ARs are still incredibly reliable so it’s almost a moot point.

The longer barrel also means increased muzzle velocity that equates to better long-range performance, which is why the Marine Corps chose it.

Since it is nearly the same rifle issued to Marines, it also functions just as reliably. The rifles issued at training units and regular units have seen a lot of use and abuse. Yet, of all the dozens of M16s I’ve fired in 11 years, I can count the number of malfunctions I’ve had on one hand and most of those were blanks being used for force-on-force training.

The M16A2, and subsequently the A4, are the gold standards of reliability, and I trust them with my life. The AR15A4 is no different. In the 400 rounds I put through it, I had not one hiccup. That is out of the box with no cleaning, just three drops of CLP.

The ammo used for testing was American Eagle 62-grain 5.56x45mm NATO XM855 and a couple of magazines of Independence Ammo 55-grain AR 5.56 FMJ. The AR15A4 chewed through them like nothing. Sighting in, the A4 performed impressively. At 25 meters, with iron sights, it took two shots to get to center, then shots three, four and five were all touching.

With an Aimpoint PRO, the three five-shot rapid-fire groups could each be covered with not much more than a Kennedy half-dollar.

From a standing rapid fire, at 25 yards, a whole magazine was dumped inside of a plate-size area. Without a doubt this rifle will perform just the same as the M16A4s being issued. That is, at 500 meters all rounds could be placed in the bull’s-eye of a man-sized target.

Shooting the AR15A4 is a pleasure. Not that any 5.56/.223 AR has a lot of recoil, but with the reduced muzzle flip of the longer barrel and gas system, this thing can really rock and roll, and stays on target while doing so.

It’s been a really long time since I’ve fired a full-size AR, and let me tell you, it just felt right. It brought back a lot of memories, and more importantly it reminded me that if tight quarters aren’t an issue, the full-sized rifle is a superior weapon.

Colt AR15A4
5.56×45 NATO
Semi-Automatic
Aluminum
Chrome-lined, 20-inch government profile barrel with 1:7 RH twist
30-round Magpul
Single stage
A2 front, A2 detachable handle rear
Full-sized A2 style stock
7.71 lbs.
39.5 in.
$1,270
colt.com

Find Out More About Iconic Colt

Colt Firearms Announces Spring Fever Promotion

By

Elwood Shelton

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March 20, 2014

0

As one of the longest-running manufacturers of the modern sporting rifle, Colt Firearms has earned its stripes when it comes to the firearm.

The Connecticut-based company has built a dedicated following, gun owners who are willing to go the extra mile just to have Colt stamped on their lower receiver. With dedication like that the company rarely has to sweeten the pot to get a shooter behind the trigger of one of its rifles.

Colt, however, is going the extra mile, recently giving potential buyers another reason to choose the iconic gunmaker.

The company announced it is giving away a free gun case with the purchase of any new modern sporting rifle in its Spring Fever Promotion. And like anything associated with Colt Firearms, the gun case the company is offering is top shelf.

The Bulldog’s black Standard Tactical Case is a solid fit for the modern sporting rifle, including all the options a shooter needs.

The case has a specialized designed with a reverse slant that allows the proper carrying of a carbine or rifle with the scope up. And it is built to fully protect the firearm from not only bumps, but also the elements.

It features extra thick padding along the side for maximum shock absorption. And the case is manufactured with a water-resistant outer shell to protect the gun in inclement conditions.

The case also has a dash of style. It is embroidered with the Rampant Colt and Serpentine Colt logos and is outfitted with Colt-branded zippers.

In order to receive the Bulldog rifle case, customers need to complete a request form and upload a proof-of-purchase scan at colt.com/springfever. The rifle case will then be shipped directly to the customer from Bulldog. The promotions run now through May 31, 2014.

Recommended AR-15 Resources

Thinking about buying an AR-15 or decking yours out with all the bells and whistles? Then you need the Gun Digest Book of the AR-15 Series Set!

Gun Digest the Magazine, April 17, 2014

By

Corey Graff

-

March 20, 2014

0

Gun Digest the Magazine is the source for firearms news, pricing and guns for sale. With a subscription to Gun Digest the Magazine, readers benefit from in-depth editorial expert advice, show reviews, how-to instructions and Second Amendment issues.

Inside This Issue:

Best New Turkey Guns and Loads
Plan a Road Trip
Ruger Redhawk Review
Top Sporting Clays Courses
Guns for Sale and More!

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CMMG’s New AR Rifle Line Offers Versatile Hand Guard

By

Elwood Shelton

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March 20, 2014

0

If CMMG’s latest edition to its AR rifle lineup appears familiar, it should. The base components that go into the Mk4 T series are used in a majority of the Missouri manufacturer’s other AR rifles.

What is different in the line is the addition of the company’s new RKM11 KeyMod free-floating hand guard and a 1913 Picatinny upper rail.

The hand guard adds an element of versatility to the platform with KeyMod slots at the 3, 6 and 9 o’clock positions. The slots give a lower-profile mounting option compared to Picatinny rails. But if your are Picatinny dedicated the company offers five-slot adapter rails, attachable to any of the KeyMod slots.

There are four rifles available in the new AR rifle line, including 5.56×45 NATO, .300 AAC Blackout, 9mm and .22 long rifle.

The 5.56mm and .300 BLK models are offered with either a 416 stainless steel or a nitrided 4140 chrome-moly steel barrel in a medium taper profile. The 9mm and .22 LR versions come standard with the nitride 4140 chrome moly M4 profile barrel.

CMMG Mk4 T Specifications:
Caliber: 5.56x45mm NATO/.300 AAC Blackout/9mm/22 long rifle
Barrel: 16″ medium weight tapered profile (5.56mm, 300 BLK)
Muzzle: A2 Comp., Threaded ½-28 (5.56mm, 22LR), ½-36 (9mm), 5/8-24 (300 BLK)
Hand Guard: CMMG RKM11 KeyMod hand guard
Upper Receiver: Forged 7075-T6 AL M4
Lower Receiver: Forged 7075-T6 AL AR15
Trigger: Single stage mil-spec style trigger
Furniture: A2 pistol grip, M4 butt stock with 6-position mil-spec receiver extension
Weight: 6.3 pounds (unloaded)
Length: 32 inches (stock collapsed)
MSRP: 5.56mm/.330 BLK Bead Blasted 416 1:7 Twist Barrel, 30-roundd PMAG $1,049; 5.56mm SBN Nitrided 4140 CrMo 1:7″ Twist 30-rd PMAG $999.95; 9mm Nitrided 4140 CrMo 1:10″ Twist 32-rd $1,149.95; .22LR Nitrided 4140 CrMo 1:16″ Twist 25-rd R3 $899.95.

Recommended AR Resources

Gun Digest Shooter's Guide to the AR-15

The Gun Digest Book of the AR-15

Gunsmithing the AR-15 Volume 2

3 Laser Sights Worth Drawing a Bead On

By

Gun Digest Editors

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March 19, 2014

0

When it comes to aiming devices, laser sights are becoming more and more popular. They are smaller, more convenient and more compatible with more handguns than ever before. Here are three laser sights definitely worth drawing a bead on.

Crimson Trace Rail Master

The CMR-204 (green) and the CMR-205 (red) lasers are new models that also have LED lights in the same unit. They have Secure Lock technology that will match many firearms and can be removed and snapped onto another gun in seconds. The device is waterproof up to one meter and it runs on a CR-2 battery. The green model gets two hours of burn time and the red one gets up to four hours. The units can be run with both light and laser, laser only, light only, laser with strobe and just the light in strobe mode. ($270, crimsontrace.com)

LaserMax Micro

The Micro is perfect for compact and sub-compact handguns that have Picatinny or Weaver rails. Small and lightweight, it only takes up one inch of rail space and therefore, is compatible with numerous handguns. It has a sleep mode that protects against unintentional draining of the battery—after ten minutes the laser automatically switches off. The gun owner can easily install the Micro on the rail with minimal effort. ($130, lasermax.com)

Veridian CSL

Veridian’s bestselling unit is the C5L and most likely it is because it will fit on any gun with a rail. It has a green laser and a 100-lumen tactical light that also has a strobe setting. The unit fits snug between the muzzle and trigger guard, with no overhang to snag on a holster. It has Instant-On activation technology that turns on the laser as soon as the gun is drawn from an enhanced combat readiness-equipped holster. It runs on a CR2 battery that will last four hours with the laser alone and an hour-plus with the light and laser used together. ($349, viridiangreenlaser.com)

This article appeared in the Dec. 30, 2013 edition Gun Digest the Magazine.

Photo Gallery: New Revolvers for 2014

By

Elwood Shelton

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March 18, 2014

4

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When it comes to dependability and versatility in handguns it's hard to beat revolvers. Not to mention, there is just something eye catching about the classic lines of wheelguns. This year's new market offerings in the way of revolvers have plenty to offer. Whether you're shopping for a revolver for self defense, competition or hunting one of the 11 following guns has you covered.

Recommended Revolver Resources

Gun Digest Book of the Revolver

Defensive Revolver Fundamentals

Big Bore Revolvers

Concealed Carry: What To Do If You Are “Made”

By

Joseph Terry

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March 18, 2014

27

At a defensive pistolcraft class I was running one of the students with a carry permit asked what might happen if somebody noticed they were armed.

This is practically never discussed at the concealed weapons qualification classes and should be a minimal risk if common sense is used in manner of carry and concealing garments.

It does happen occasionally and, as a matter of fact has—oops!—even happened to me.

Us cops call it “being made” and it merits at least a little thought to keep an awkward moment from becoming dangerous.

Getting made usually occurs one of two ways: (1) “drops” and (2) “prints.”

Believe it or not, cops get calls from citizens who report, “Somebody just dropped a gun on the floor in the bathroom at my store.” It happens.

What to do with your gun while sitting on the throne is one of those awkward little pieces of business that you have to pay attention to. Don’t hang the gun by the trigger guard on the garment hook on the back of the stall door! (The wrong tug can cause an accidental discharge.)

Rather than let the holster and gun clank on the deck when your pants drop, keep a grip on it with your strong side hand and learn to tidy up with your weak-side hand. This keeps the gun and holster above the level of the gaps at the bottom of the stalls. Or use the “handicapped” stall. They usually have more distance between the walls and the toilet so nobody can catch a peek at your “hardware.”

Far more common is that somebody who knows what to look for sees the outline of the gun through the covering garment or catches a glimpse of the holster or mag pouch if you do some awkward movements.

This is known as “printing” and it happened to me three times. Once at a restaurant with an open backed chair. Once at a lumber yard where I was reaching high to load material on my truck and once at the car repair shop when I bent way over to look in the engine compartment. The response was different each time.

The first time at the lumber yard a guy walking behind me just asked, “You got a permit for that?” “Yep”, I immediately answered and pulled out my badge.

At the repair shop shortly after I finished talking to the tech guy, a marked unit pulled up to the bay and a local deputy contacted me. The manager had called it in and a unit was close. I showed him my ID and we ended up talking “shop” for about a half an hour.

At the restaurant, another patron stopped by our table and asked me a code question cops use and I gave the right answer. (I won’t disclose the code but if you have any cop buddies you might ask them to share it with you.) It was so discreet that my wife didn’t even figure out what happened until I told her when we got in the car.

In every case I was wearing a small frame semi-auto in an inside-the-belt, thumb snap holster covered by an outer garment. It must have worked pretty well most of the time because I only got made three times in thirty one years.

What was common to each one of those instances was this important tip. Immediately apologize for disclosing that you are armed and then say “I’m going to show you my permit.” Very S L O W L Y get out your wallet and your permit.

If you are contacted by a police officer they may move close to you when they first approach. This is to put them within disarming distance if you make a sudden move. Believe me, you do NOT want this to happen, so keep both of your hands raised in front with your palms out and politely ask “May I show you my permit?” if they move in close and ask if you are carrying a gun.

What you do not want to happen is to be made and appear in any way belligerent or aggressive. One such citizen complaint is likely to get your permit pulled. With a cop it will probably get you busted.

Getting made? Carry every day and you either have been or should assume you will be eventually. If it happens, be cool. Remain polite. And stay safe.

Video: In Memory Of Mr. Kalashnikov, 700 Round AK Burn

By

Corey Graff

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March 17, 2014

1

Firing 700 rounds through an AK seems a fitting tribute to the late Mikhail Kalashnikov and his ever-reliable design. But will the gun used in this test catch on fire, melt or ultimately triumph? Watch the video and find out.

I Recommend these AK-47 Resources:

The Gun Digest Book of the AK & SKS

Video: Avtomat Kalashnikova

AK47: The Complete Kalashnikov Family of Rifles

AK-47 Assembly/Disassembly Download

AK-47 Assembly/Disassembly DVD

GUN DIGESTWE KNOW GUNS SO YOU KNOW GUNS

Turkey Guns for 2014: Beretta A400 Xtreme

Browning Maxus All-Purpose

Mossberg FLEX 20-Gauge

Remington Versamax Sportsman Turkey

Winchester Super-X Turkey Hunter

Since World War II, Gun Digest has been the gun book by which all others are measured.

Critical aspects of bringing home a long beard happen way before the start of turkey season. Testing to discover the maximum range of your gun and the most effective combination of choke and loads are preseason musts.

Ruger's classic .22 single-action revolver becomes even more compact with this bird’s head grip version available from Lipsey’s.

Enter the Shopkeeper

Smooth Operators

El Paso Saddlery offers the Bearcat Shopkeeper owner an exquisite and authentic option to holster their .22 revolver.

Must-Read Articles on Concealed Carry Holsters

Scope Out These Resources

First off, ABSOLUTELY under no circumstances should you attempt what you are about to watch in this video. No ifs, ands or buts!

Drills, Skills and Gear

Colt AR15A4 Review

A Colt for Today

First Impressions

Full-Sized Functionality

Find Out More About Iconic Colt

<img decoding="async" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-203101" alt="Gun Digest the Magazine, April 17, 2014" src="https://gundigest.com/wp-content/uploads/GNL04172014-1-221x300.jpg" width="201" height="273" />Inside This Issue:

When it comes to aiming devices, laser sights are becoming more and more popular. They are smaller, more convenient and more compatible with more handguns than ever before. Here are three laser sights definitely worth drawing a bead on.

Crimson Trace Rail Master

LaserMax Micro

Veridian CSL

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