Watch Jerry Miculek make five shots in 0.8 Seconds with the Desert Eagle .50, a new World Record. Recorded in super high speed you can actually see the bullets screaming out of this awesome handgun!
Editor's Note: Be sure check out the new Gun Digest Shooter's Guide to Handgun Marksmanship.
When it comes to generating chatter in the gun community, few things can get jaws jacking like Glock. The Austrian-based manufacturer has a large fan base, always champing at the bit over what the company plans to introduce next. And perhaps as of late, no two handguns have produced more chatter than the new Glock 41 and 42.
The Glock 41 is the company’s answer to those who have wanted its take on a longslide .45 ACP. As Massad Ayoob points out in the video below, the Glock 41 is an amalgamation of features of the company’s other pistols. It has the similar frame to the Gen 4 Glock 21, with the slimmer slide of the practical/tactical Glock 34 and 35.
Glock 41 Specifications
Overall length: 8.9 inches
Width: 1.28 inches
Height (with magazine): 5.47 inches
Barrel length: 5.31 inches
Length of twist: 1:15.75 inches
Pistol weight without magazine: 24 ounces
Magazine weight full: 12 ounces
Standard trigger pull: 5.62 pounds
Magazine capacity: 13 rounds
Glock fans have been after the company to produce a pocket-sized pistol for years. What the manufacturer has come up with, however, has already stirred the pot. Many expected the Glock 42 to be a single stack 9mm, instead the company chambered the pistol in .380 ACP.
According to Massad Ayoob in the video below, the reason why Glock went with .380 for the 42 was shootablity. The .380 gives the shooter more control and offers less recoil than a 9mm of the same size. As Ayoob points out, these are assets for someone with small or arthritic hands.
The Glock 42 is the smallest pistol the company has ever produced. Despite its petite size compared to its cousins, it is rather bulky in relation to other .380 ACPs. The Ruger LCP and Kahr P380, to name two, are much more diminutive in comparison. There is speculation the .380 will be a stepping stone in offering the Glock 42 in 9mm. But at this point that is little more than conjecture.
On a side note, this is not the first .380 Glock has produced. The Glock 25 and 28 are both chambered .380, but have only been available to law enforcement agencies.
Glock 42 Specifications
Overall length: 5.94 inches
Width: 0.94-inch
Height (with magazine): 4.13 inches
Barrel length: 3.25 inches
Length of twist: 1:9.84 inches
Pistol weight without magazine: 12.35 ounces
Magazine weight full: 2.01 ounces
Standard trigger pull: 5.62 pounds
Magazine Capacity: 6+1
Recommended Glock Resource
What happens when the temperature dives to a frigid -27°F with windchills exceeding -55°F and you blast 1-gallon jugs of boiling water with a rifle? Answer: a massive cloud of water vapor which instantly freezes, turning into a cloud of snow.
Get the Gun Digest Annual Book
Click Here to get your copy of the Gun Digest 2014
Recently, the SR40 and SR40c were introduced in the super-popular .40 Smith & Wesson cartridge. This makes a lot of sense, since many justifiably think any defensive caliber ought to begin with a “4.”
Both frame sizes have their place, depending on the intended use. The compact models shave about .64-inch off the barrel and 3.1 ounces off the weight of the standard models. This is not to say the standard models are big. They’re not, but they are a bit larger than the compacts. All four versions have a coordinated set of synergetic features that produce a comfortable, efficient, and reliable shooting system.
The Ruger SR40 is striker-fired and offers a host of unique features, exceptional reliability, great ergonomics, and excellent accuracy. (I might mention that it is also modestly priced, with an MSRP of only $525.)
It features a glass-filled nylon grip frame. The pistol fits my hand like a glove, and—praise be—its angle is exactly the same as a 1911, important to those of us trained on the old .45. When I raise the SR40 to shooting position, the sights are pointed right at the target.
The trigger has a trigger safety lever that prevents firing unless the trigger is completely pulled. An ambidextrous manual safety is also provided at the rear of the slide, which not only prevents firing, but also locks the slide.
Its use is not required because, like most other DAO pistols, the gun is completely safe until the shooter picks it up and pulls the trigger. A flat loaded-chamber indicator, another safety feature, is on the top of the slide at the rear of the ejection port and sticks up when a round is loaded in the chamber.
The trigger pull on my test-fire sample was seven pounds, one ounce. It was a bit gritty at first, but, after a few break-in rounds, it smoothed right up. To me, it felt like a highly tuned revolver—just as a DAO pistol is supposed to—first shot to last. Additionally, the SR40 uses a unique link-less system to lock and unlock the barrel that differs from those pistols in the Ruger P-series. Movement of the slide fore and aft is slick and quick.
Combined with a grip frame that is extremely strong, lightweight, and very pleasing to the hand, felt recoil seems moderated. I also liked that the molded-in checkering on the grips, backstrap, and front of the grip, which provide a good handhold without sandpapering off your skin when firing.
The trim little pistol weighs a mere 27.2 ounces with an empty magazine. Loaded with 15 rounds, it tips the scales at 36.4 ounces. The 4.1-inch barrel has six grooves with a 1:16 right-hand twist. Slides are made of either alloy or stainless steel, depending on finish. My test gun had the stainless slide, and I can report that it had a lustrous and uniformly brushed finish that is very attractive. A black nitride version is also available.
Another nice feature is the reversible backstrap. The pistol comes with the arched side out, but, if you prefer a flat backstrap (as you’d find with the original M-1911), just push out a little pin, turn the backstrap over, and reinstall. It takes all of about 30 seconds, if you go really slow.
The magazine release is ambidextrous. Thankfully, when it is pressed from either side, the magazine is instantly launched out of the grip like it’s jet propelled. Insertion of a magazine is slick and effortless.
The gun, by the way, is shipped in a hard plastic case with two 15-round magazines.
The SR40 has a magazine disconnect system that prevents firing if the magazine is removed. The gun will “snap” with the magazine removed, but it won’t fire with a live round in the chamber.
Also, the trigger pull is not the same with the magazine removed as when firing a loaded gun. Importantly, the owner’s manual specifically cautions that dry-firing a SR series pistol without a magazine “may result in damage or unnecessary wear to the magazine disconnect mechanism and/or striker,” and may get you exiled to the Gulag. In other words, don’t do it. The SR40 can be dry-fired without damage to the pistol, when an empty magazine is in place.
An accessory rail is provided at the bottom front of the grip frame, to which the user can hang all manner of accoutrements like a laser sight, high-intensity light, or a pistol bayonet. Up top, it seems to be an article of faith that all defensive pistols have fixed sights, never mind that they don’t always hit where they look and you can’t change them, but guess what? The SR40 has excellent three-dot sights with a fully adjustable rear.
There’s a click-adjustment screw for elevation and a set screw that must be loosened to drift the sight for windage. The rear sight adjustment worked like a charm, and it stayed put. Another revelation is that the width of the rear-sight notch is actually wide enough to see light on either side of the front sight. Both sights are dovetailed in place, so fussbudgets can install after-market replacements, if desired.
Field striping the pistol for cleaning is a breeze. First, make sure the pistol is unloaded, then lock the slide back and remove the magazine. Push the ejector down and forward—you can’t fieldstrip the pistol unless you do—then remove the takedown pin assembly and, while holding the slide, release the slide stop and ease the slide off the grip frame.
Remove the guide-rod assembly and its spring, then remove the barrel. Reassembly is in reverse order. After the takedown pin is replaced and the slide is still locked back, the ejector then must be pushed up to its original position. This can be done either with your finger or simply by inserting the magazine back in place.
On the test range, the SR40 was accurate and reliable. I tested 13 factory loads and 20 handloads (see the results in the table). Mercifully, there was none of the “first shot out of the group” nonsense so common to many semi-autos. Reliability is absolutely paramount in any defensive pistol, and there was not one failure to feed, fire, or eject with any of hundreds of rounds I tested. Also, it was a lot of fun to shoot. Like Goldilocks said, “It’s not too small or too big, it’s just right.”
Overall accuracy of the SR40 was excellent. With either factory ammo or selected handloads, groups averaged from two to three inches for five shots at 20 yards from a rest; 10 loads handily beat two inches. This is outstanding accuracy for any defensive pistol.
Several loads with new “wonder” bullets offer an optimum combination of penetration and expansion, even through clothing or other barriers—essential for self-defense or law enforcement work—and muzzle energies exceeded 400 ft-bs.
The two mid-weight Hornady 155-grain loads were powerhouses, with the Custom XTP load registering a sizzling 1,152 fps and 457 ft-lbs of muzzle energy, and the TAP/FPD version close behind at 1,098 fps and 415 ft-lbs. The various 180-grain loads clocked about 900 to 980 fps, and the SR40 favored the Hornady 180-grain Custom XTPs and Winchester’s economical USA JHPs.
A bonus with all these rounds was the SR40’s excellent adjustable rear sight, which made switching loads easy. It was tough picking a “best” load, but I finally settled on the Hornady Custom XTP load, because of its excellent accuracy and a crunching 457 ft-lbs of muzzle energy.
I liked the performance of this pistol so much, I broke Gun Writer Rule No. 2*—“Never Buy Test Guns”—and sent Ruger a check. The SR40 is now my regular carry gun around the farm.
Its user-friendly ergonomics, quality construction, excellent accuracy, total reliability, and modest price make it worth a look for anyone considering a self-defense handgun—or just a neat auto pistol for lots of shooting fun.
Ruger SR40 Specifications
Type: Striker-fired, semi-automatic, DAO pistol
Caliber/Gauge: .40 Smith & Wesson
Capacity: 15+1, two 15-round flush-fit magazines provided; 10-round versions available
Barrel length: 4.14 inches, 1:16 right-hand twist six grooves
Weight: 27.2 ounces (with empty magazine)
Overall length: 7.55 inches
Overall width: 1.27 inches
Sights: Fully adjustable three-dot sights
Finish: Brushed stainless steel (tested) or black
nitride alloy steel slide; glass-filled nylon frame
Stocks: Nylon, integral with grip frame
MSRP: $529
Contact: Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. (www.ruger.com)
This article is an excerpt from the Gun Digest 2014 annual book.
Detroit's police chief recently made waves when he advocated people arm themselves for self-defense. In this video, economist John R. Lott, author of More Guns, Less Crime, explains why concealed carry is the most sensible position. Source: CNN Blogs
My recommended resources for concealed carry:
The Gun Digest Book of Concealed Carry, 2nd Edition
The Gun Digest Book of Combat Handgunnery
Armed: The Essential Guide to Concealed Carry
Find more resources at gundigeststore.com/tactical
Ron Dickson — Great Eastern National Gun Day and JAG Military Show, Louisville, Ky.
“The collectible firearms market is just wild right now,” says Ron Dickson, manager of National Gun Day gun shows. “For firearms in really good condition, the prices are going through the roof.”
A standard Henry rifle, for example, starts at $20,000 but $35,000 and up is more likely at his shows, attended by many sellers and collectors of antique firearms.
As prices have gone higher for pre-1900 firearms, Dickson says younger, less-affluent collectors are buying up military firearms from World War I and World War II. Lugers and 1911 .45’s from World War II are in big demand, with high quality M1 Garands and M1 carbines still available for under $1,000.
Recommended Resources for Gun Collectors:
2014 Standard Catalog of Firearms, 24th Edition
One of the nation’s largest magazine manufacturers announced Jan. 2, it is pulling up stakes from Erie after nearly 15 years in the Northern Colorado town. The company will move its corporate office to Texas and its manufacturing operations to Wyoming.
A rash of gun-control laws passed in Colorado in 2013 was the catalyst for the iconic gun accessories company’s move. One piece of legislation in particular struck at the heart of Magpul’s operations.
Among the new laws enacted included a prohibition on the sale of gun magazines that hold more than 15 rounds. The majority of Magpul’s magazines have capacities of 20 rounds or greater.
The law had language allowing the manufacture of magazines with capacities greater than 15 rounds in Colorado. But Magpul’s heads found little solace in fabricating a product in a state it was deemed illegal to sell.
“Moving operations to states that support our culture of individual liberties and personal responsibility is important,” Magpul CEO Richard Fitzpatrick said in a statement. “This relocation will also improve business operations and logistics as we utilize the strengths of Texas and Wyoming in our expansion.”
Magpul plans on transitioning 92 percent of its workforce outside of Colorado within the next 12-16 months. And it is not the only company set to move from the state due to the gun-control legislation.
Fort Collins’ HiViz Shooting Systems – sights and recoil pads manufacturer – and Littleton-based Ammo Kan have announced they will move to Laramie, Wyo., in 2014.
Recommended Resources
Gun Digest Book of Tactical Weapons Assembly/Disassembly
Around two months ago the multi-state based manufacturer announced it had produced the world's first 3D printed metal gun. Now the company has plans on putting its take on the M1911 on the market.
Solid Concepts announced it will sell 100 limited editions of the handgun, manufactured using the same process as the prototype. But being one of the first to own a piece of the future won’t come cheap.
The company has the 1911’s priced at $11,900. Spendy, but history always demands top dollar.
The guns are made of Inconel 625 (a nickel-chromium alloy) and stainless steel through a process known as Direct Metal Laser Sintering. The procedure fuses layers of metal onto each other, until the end product comes to fruition (refer to the video below for a more in depth explanation).
Outside of some final polishing, the manufacturing process requires no tooling. For Solid Concept’s 1911, this even includes the barrel’s rifling. The lands and grooves are “grown” during the barrel’s manufacture.
Solid Concept’s prototype has faired well, according to the company. The handgun is nearing 2,000 rounds without malfunctioning once. And, as Eric Mutchler points out, the gun’s first iteration was not produced in its strongest possible form.
“The 17-4 Stainless Steel has not been post heat treated because that would further strengthen it and we wanted to test our least strong option first,” the project engineer at Solid Concepts said.
The 100 guns set to be sold come with a wooden showcase box with a 3D printed metal plaque and a certificate of authenticity. The company is also offering buyers the chance to tour their Texas facility to see their gun being printed, and to join their lead additive manufacturing engineers on the range for the first test firing of their limited 1911 gun.
1911 3D Printed Metal Gun Technical Specifications:
Weight: 2.25 pounds empty, no magazine
Width: 1.3 inches
Trigger Pull: 5 pounds
Sight Radius: 6.4 inches
Sights: Standard GI with square notch rear.
Twist: 1:15.8; 6=Lands 6=Grooves
Recommended D-I-Y Resources
Gunsmithing with Patrick Sweeney CD
Did you find the 3D printed gun article interesting? Than you're certain to find Gunsmithing with Patrick Sweeney a useful read. The CD is the compilation of three books by Sweeney: Gunsmithing: Pistols & Revolvers; Gunsmithing: Rifles; and Gunsmithing: Shotguns. The reference is perfect if you are looking for a troubleshooting guide for your firearms, want to find the right methods of cleaning and repairing your firearms, or if you are interested in becoming a gunsmith.
Do you have a need for speed? Tactical Fire Control might have the trigger for you.
The Phoenix, Ariz., manufacturer is now taking pre orders for its much anticipated Tac-Con 3MR Trigger System. And if the drop-in system lives up to its hype, there is a pretty good chance it could be the hot AR product of 2014.
The system consists of safe, semi-automatic and the Tac-Con patented 3rd Mode of operation. It’s the 3rd Mode that makes 3MR special, providing a positive trigger reset, reducing split times between shots.
In short, the trigger resets itself for the next shot, even while there is finger pressure still on it.
According to Tactical Fire Control’s press release, the positive reset “[I]s achieved by transferring the force from the bolt carrier through the trigger assembly to assist the trigger back onto the front sear. As a result, this gives the firearm the fastest reset possible.”
If Tactical Fire Control’s teaser video gives a truthful glimpse of the trigger’s potential, the system is capable of blistering rates of fire. The trigger has a 4.5-pound pull weight in both its semi-automatic and 3rd Mode positions.
Tactical Fire Control has made a point to stress its system is ATF approved and is not a part banned by National Firearm Act. In fact, the company ships the trigger with the ATF approval letter – just incase there are any questions. The company also emphasizes the 3MR is not a bump fire system.
As mentioned before, if the Tac-Con 3MR lives up to what it’s promised it should win accolades and fans. But AR enthusiasts will have to pony up cash to be on the cutting edge.
Presently, the trigger system fetches $495 – nearly twice the amount of many top-end systems. But for those who live to sling large volumes of lead accurately, it might be a small price to pay.
Recommended AR-15 Resources
Gun Digest Book of the AR-15 Series Set! For more resources on guns, shooting and gun collecting check out GunDigestStore.com.
Rob Pincus finished up the 2013 training year in Arizona, a state where you are not required to have any training before you can carry a defensive firearm. Even so, many firearm owners choose to pay for and attend demanding training courses on their own in order to meet what they perceive as their responsibility. Two of Rob's Advanced Pistol Handling students share their thoughts on the need for concealed carry training in this video.
Learn more from Rob Pincus
Defend Yourself, a new book by Rob Pincus. Pre-Order Now
Typically gun storage solutions come in two variations – safes and display cases. While important accessories for any shooter these options usually have one major drawback — accessibility.
Once under lock and key, it takes a good amount of time to put a gun in working order. In a situation where seconds count, the minutes required to retrieve a gun from a safe or case can be costly.
With that in mind, one company has put a functional twist to stowing firearms. BenchMaster's Weapons RAC is a decent attempt to marry storage with convenience. RAC stands for Ready Access Containment, of which the company's sleeves and wall mounts offer in spades.
The sleeves, designed for handguns, are particularly intriguing.
The system comes in one- to four-gun configurations and in two types of storage systems. The shelf sleeves are meant to make closet or gun-safe shelves neat-and-easy storage areas. The larger models also come with extra magazine storage. The mountable one- and two-gun models, on the other hand, aim at more clandestine storage.
The models come with the option of magnetic or Velcro strips, allowing the sleeves to be mounted nearly anywhere. The door of a gun safe can quickly become handgun storage or the side of a bed stand can be mounted with a personal-defense pistol or revolver. It is even conceivable the sleeve could be mounted on the underside of a desk.
Given the light material the Weapon RAC sleeves are made – plastic and foam cushion – where the storage solution is installed is only limited by imagination.
The shotgun and rifle storage options are as simple as can be, little more than cushioned barrel rests with magnetic strips. The configuration makes nearly any metallic surface – such as the side of a gun safe – an extra storage area.
And with the entire RAC line running $12.99 to 39.99, the systems’ prices are all inclusive. BenchMaster’s storage solutions, however, might not be for everyone.
While the Weapon RACs contain guns, they do not secure them. To achieve a fully security, the systems must be used in conjunction with a safe. And the system might not be the first choice for putting a collector's piece in dry dock, since the Weapons RAC offer little overall protection.
However, if a snug storage area that presents a gun for quick retrieval is desired, BenchMaster's system is definitely a consideration.
Recommended Concealed Carry Resources
Find the Weapon RAC interesting? Then it might be time to delve deeper into personal security tactics. There's no better reference on the matter than Defend Yourself: A Comprehensive Security Plan for the Armed Homeowner. The book is perfect if you’ve purchased firearms for home defense and protection, you want practical guidance on home security and defense and you’re looking for practical ways to apply home defense principles. Also check out our other concealed carry books.
Windham Weaponry “MPC”
Model: R16M4A4T
Caliber: .223 Rem. / 5.56mm NATO
Type: Rifle
Action: Semi-Automatic, Gas Impingement System
Capacity: 30 + 1- Ships with one 30 Round Magazine
Safety: Manual Lever with Indicator Markings on Both Sides of Receiver
Receiver: M4A4 Type Flat Top Upper Receiver with Detachable Carry Handle
Receiver Material: Forged 7075 T6 Aircraft Aluminum with Aluminum Trigger Guard
Receiver Finish: Hardcoat Black Anodize Finish
Bolt Material: Carpenter 158 Steel
Barrel: 16” M4 Profile, Chrome Lined with A2 Flash Suppressor
Barrel Material: 4150 Chrome Moly Vanadium 11595E Steel w. M4 Feed Ramps
Rifling: 1 Turn in 9” – Right Hand Twist
Stock: 6 Position Telescoping Buttstock with Windham Weaponry Logo
Forend / Pistol Grip: M4 Double Heat Shield Handguards / A2 Black Plastic Grip
Rear Sight: A4 Dual Aperture Elevation & Windage Adjustable: 300 – 600 M
Front Sight: Adjustable Height Square Post in A2 Standard Base
Packaging: Hard Plastic Gun Case with Black Web Sling & Operators Manual
Learn more at windhamweaponry.com
Sooner or later you'll need to leave the safety and comfort of the shooting bench and learn how to shoot while moving. The guys at PFC Training give you some expert tips on runnin' and gunnin' in this video.
Recommended AR-15 resources:
New! – The Gun Digest Book of the AR-15 Vol. IV
The Gun Digest Book of the AR-15 Vol. III
The Gun Digest Book of the AR-15 Vol. II
The Gun Digest Book of the AR-15 Vol. I
Gunsmithing the AR-15, How to Maintain, Repair & Accessorize
New! The Gun Digest Buyer's Guide to Tactical Rifles
Find more gun books, DVDs and downloads at gundigeststore.com.
Online gun building applications certainly aren’t new—Brownell’s AR-15 Builder is but one excellent example—and AR15.com’s version, called Gunstruction, is yet another really good choice. Gunstruction is simple to use and makes it easier to envision your next AR build before dishing out your money.
I recently gave it a spin and found it to be intuitive (with a couple minor hang-ups, noted below) and at least as much fun as watching reruns of Route 66 on the local retro channel.
First you need to install free software in order to view and use the tool. Next, you can either choose to build an AR from scratch—literally part by part—or start with a pre-built platform from Troy, ArmaLite, Stag Arms, LaRue Tactical, Doublestar Corp. or VLTOR, which you can trick out to your heart’s content.
You can swap out uppers and lowers, barrels, trigger assemblies, stocks and operating systems—gas piston kits!
As you make changes, the retail price of parts is displayed and the total gun cost is updated. You can name your gun project and save it in your account. You can come back later and make changes, and add additional gun projects.
There is a ton of cool name brand accessories from which to choose, from bipods and stocks to optics and flash suppressors.
The camera feature allows you to save images of your gun in varying aspect ratios, and you can literally spin, rotate and flip your gun any which way on the screen to see how she looks.
There is quite the selection of custom paint jobs you can apply, too, including all the popular commercial camo schemes. You can also detail with Duracoat or spray paint in every possible “tactical” coloration imaginable.
The only issue I had using Gunstruction was figuring out how to add accessories to the gun after choosing them.
The trick with scopes and flashlights is to add a mount. AR15.com clearly put some thought into making this part realistic, requiring you to get matching mounts for the mounting system and optic you’ve chosen. This is a very handy aspect of the tool simply for getting the right mounts for your scope.
The video tutorial below explains this well.
The AR-15 is like the Jeep of guns. You can swap and customize pretty much everything to build your dream rig. AR15.com’s Gunstruction is a powerful online tool that allows you to do just that—so you know what you’re getting into … well before you hit the trail.
If gun manufacturers produced commercials to appear on any of the major networks, Walther’s ad for their PPQ M2 would look like a Lexus commercial. A trusting, deep baritone voice would speak of classic lines, ergonomics, performance, form, function, beauty and even art. Indeed this gun to a true firearm enthusiast is a piece of modern engineering art, for how it balances in the hand and shoots as much as for its appearance.
It is said by most shooting instructors that for effective use, the handgun must become an extension of the hand. The PPQ M2 does.
I know from a concealable standpoint, there’s no shortage of shooters who like a single-stack semi because it’s more slender. However, after shooting a number of both single-stack and double-stack guns, I simply find I shoot a double-stack better.
The grip fills my palm and leaves me with less indecision on where to precisely place my hand. I’m able to control the gun better, both when aiming and during recoil, which improves follow-up shot placement considerably.
The grip on the PPQ M2 curves comfortably in the rear to form a swell that naturally fills the palm for a surer hold. The handgun comes with three easily interchangeable back strap panels that can be removed and attached by simply removing a single pin with a small punch.
The medium strap installed on my test gun fit my hand perfectly, though there is a smaller one for shooters who prefer less swell or have smaller hands and a larger one for shooters who want even more to hold.
The polymer grip has mild finger grooves in the front and gentle contours along the side and is textured with a nonslip cross-directional surface. The texture enhances the shooter’s hold on the gun while firing without chewing bare hands up during high-volume target sessions.
Design didn’t end at the grip. Edges are rounded to prevent snagging when holstering or unholstering, while the trigger guard indents where it attaches to the front of the grip for additional finger comfort.
The machined slide is Tenifer coated for corrosion resistance and sports vertically angled lines notched along its length to create visual appeal, as well as shave a little weight from the gun.
The result is a handgun that looks remarkably stylish and distances itself visually from many of the clunkier, albeit excellently shooting models available from Walther’s major competitors and even, to some degree, within its own lines.
But beauty is meaningless without functionality and there, the PPQ M2’s features deliver as well with an integrated rail beneath the barrel for the mounting of a laser or light and low-profile three-dot polymer combat sights that provide for quick target acquisition.
The sight dots are bright white, which imprinted on the black posts provides for easy sight alignment against both light or dark targets and backgrounds. An extended ambidextrous slide stop provides for easy lock-open from either side of the gun, even when wearing gloves.
The PPQ also has a trigger safety and internal safeties as well as a loaded chamber indicator, an oversize magazine release that can be reversed for left-handed operation and of particular interest where performance is concerned, Walther’s Quick Defense Trigger, a super smooth squeezing trigger with a light 5.6-pound trigger pull (mine actually fired at just under that), less than a half-inch (.4 inch to be precise) trigger pull and a .1-inch reset for lightning fast follow-up shots.
As one Glock fan joining me during test firing observed, “This trigger is smoother than my Glock. It feels almost like a competition trigger.”
The width of the PPQ M2 is 1.3 inches, again, wide enough to enhance in-the-hand comfort without making the gun so bulky as to preclude it from serious carry consideration. This is certainly no subcompact-sized gun for those seeking today’s ultra-slim designs, but in my experience, particularly with newer shooters (and even some not so new), shooting smaller guns can also be more difficult.
While its great to have a gun that slips in a pocket or won’t imprint from beneath a shirt, it’s useless if you can’t hit what you’re shooting at in an emergency. The PPQ M2 bridges that concern.
At the range, we pulled the PPQ M2 (PPQ by the way stands for Police Pistol Quick Defense) from the case, gave it a thorough visual inspection and function check, loaded a mag and went to work on the target.
Shooting without a rest, using a standard two-handed grip and standing, we shot the target as you would in a defensive scenario. While nobody achieved any 1-inch groups, it was easy to rapidly fire an entire grouping within the torso or head of a silhouette target.
We tested a mix of American Eagle and Winchester ammo. Everyone who held the gun agreed it shot nice, was accurate and would be a great gun to own. I left that gun at the studio back at the office to be photographed when we were done.
The following week, I broke out a separate PPQ M2 wondering if it would yield the same results during a more serious testing session. My goal was to replicate the accuracy achieved on the Walther target that came with the gun.
A tester at the factory fires each gun before it ships and is sent out with the target enclosed in the case. The target with my gun indicated a nice, center-of-target group that measured just outside of an inch. It was shot at 15 meters (approximately 16½ yards).
I test fired 150 rounds through the PPQ, shooting both five-shot groups and full mag strings. Some were done rapid fire and standing—a typical defensive scenario—and others were shot measured and from bags.
Unloading the full magazine as quickly as I could at targets hanging at both 7 and 15 yards away, I averaged 14-15 shots inside the ring of a 10-inch target at 7 yards and 12-13 inside the ring at 15. I’m clearly no threat to any speed shooting competitors out there, but I was more than happy with how I was shooting with the PPQ.
Using a rest and trying to shoot completely for accuracy, I didn’t always achieve the 1-inch groups my Walther tester had with the gun, but I was able to easily deliver routine groups inside a 2-inch circle at 15 yards using American Eagle 124-grain FMJ ammo (with the occasional inexplicable flyer that generally went no more than an inch wide).
To my own amazement, I delivered one group that fell completely inside an inch with the holes all touching. It’s quite honestly the best group I’ve ever shot with a handgun as I tend to spend more time behind the stock of a rifle or shotgun.
Ultimately, I left the range that day not only as impressed with the Walther PPQ M2’s performance, but also with my eyes open to the new found shooting ability I knew I was capable of with the right gun in my hand. The PPQ M2 is definitely that gun.
Walther PPQ M2
Caliber: 9mm & .40 S&W
Capacity: 15+1 (9mm), 11+1 (.40)
Magazines: Two 15 round or 11 round mags
Barrel: 4” Tenifer coated, matte black
Sights: Low profile, three-dot polymer combat sights
Frame: Polymer, matte black
Slide: Tenifer coated, matte finish
Length: 7.1”
Height: 5.3”
Weight: 1.5 lbs.
Options: Mag loader, adjustable back strap panels, gun lock, also available in 9mm and .40 S&W 5” versions as well as a 4.6” 9mm Navy version. Metal self-illumination or metal Tritium night sights also available.
SRP: $599-$699
Website: waltherarms.com
This article appeared in the September 9, 2013 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.
“This auction is another indisputable sign that high condition guns will continue to sell big,” said Director of Auction Services, Kevin Hogan. “People might get tired of hearing us tout condition so frequently, but we see the evidence at every auction: condition sells,” continued Hogan.
“That considered, we also saw several other pieces achieve exciting prices that helped us to finish 2013 on this record setting note.”
Indeed, there were many pieces that received attention from more than a handful of bidders, making for some happy consignors and several exciting moments during the auction.
Perhaps most exciting was the new world record set by an extraordinary Winchester Third Model 1866 carbine, that sold for $74,750. The condition on this gun was so immaculate, that it still exhibited the original polish marks from the factory and some lucky collector just had to add it to their collection.
Another highlight of the auction was a deluxe Winchester Model 1894 takedown with No. 2 factory engraving, gold inlays, and in spectacular condition, that sold for $172,500.
Extending back to their days on the American plains, Gatling guns command attention wherever they go and our Premiere Auction was no exception. A ten-barreled, 1874 Colt Gatling gun was proudly displayed in our Preview Hall before selling for $92,000 to an undoubtedly excited history enthusiast.
It was no secret that this auction contained over 600 Colt firearms. This mainstay of the collecting community attracted collectors from across the country and made for some very exciting results.
– A supremely high condition 1851 Colt Navy revolver was acquired for $37,375
– A documented Colt SAA revolver from the Red Skelton Estate attributed to outlaws Bill Doolin and Emmett Dalton sold for $74,750
– An 1837 “Baby” Paterson crossed the block for $69,000
– Highest known serial number Colt SAA with factory engraving and carved ivory grips went home with a collector for $69,000
– A gorgeous, factory engraved, silver & gold plated Colt SAA with pearl grips also sold for $69,000
The selection of sporting arms in this sale was also phenomenal, featuring high end rifles, luxurious shotguns, beautiful big bores, safari grades hunting pieces, and more.
– A rare, special order engraved Purdey O/U shotgun with handsome case hardening sold for $51,750
– An absolutely beautiful engraved and Damascus barreled John Dickson & Son single shot, flintlock fowling piece exceeded its auction estimate by over 100% and achieved $18,400
– A stately and historic WWII J.P. Sauer & Son Luftwaffe Model 30 survival Drilling with its case and accessories brought $43,125
– An stunning engraved Purdey & Sons hammerless double rifle in 400 Express with its case and accessories realized $40,250
– As rare as it is beautiful, an engraved George Gibbs Farquharson’s patent dropping block rifle also blew past its high auction estimate and hammered for $21,850
The 450 Winchesters in this sale also resulted in a bounty for collectors. Besides the aforementioned rifles, several Winchester and Henry rifles also reached some very noteworthy prices.
– An exhibition quality, factory engraved, silver plated Henry rifle with touches of a plum-colored patina brought an exciting $149,500
– A rare “digital” 1 of 1,000 Model 1873 Winchester loaded with factory extras went out the door for $86,250
– An extremely rare special order factory engraved, silver plated Winchester Model 1892 takedown with numerous features and a 1934 factory letter earned $80,500
– A mint condition, documented, crisp, factory exhibition engraved Winchester Model 1873 deluxe short rifle featured in “The Winchester Engraving Book” left our doors for $74,750
– A stunning first year production Colt 1911, serial #1172, with its mirror-like blue commercial high-polish finish and vivid nitre blue components achieved $69,000
– A likely “one-of-a-kind” prototype Walther Model KPK pistol found a new home for $54,625
– An extremely rare early production gas-trap M1 Garand rifle with a scarce theater made blast deflector and authentication letter brought $37,375
– An ever-popular LeMat revolver with its daunting shotgun underbarrel commanded a respectable $28,750
– A rare Springfield Type II officer’s model 1875 Trapdoor rifle from the Collection of Richard Branum was happily snatched up for $23,000
– A scarce, early post WWI Weimar era DWM Navy rework Luger crushed its high auction estimate and sold for $13,800
Rock Island Auction Company is the world’s #1 auction company for firearms, bladed weapons and militaria. Founded in 1993 by Owner and President Patrick Hogan, RIAC continues to set records for sales and to lead the industry with its extensive and beautiful marketing efforts. Their 86,000 square foot facility hosts 8 auctions each year. They actively seek consignments, be it a single item or a collection of hundreds, a thousand dollar item or one million. For more information, please visit www.rockislandauction.com or call 1-800-238-8022.
Recommended Resources for Gun Collectors:
2014 Standard Catalog of Firearms, 24th Edition
