Building A “Ghost Gun:” An 80 Percent Lower Buyer’s Guide

By

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August 26, 2022

Despite recent rule changes, building “ghost guns” is still legal and nothing to be spooked about. With an 80 percent lower, some tools and elbow grease, you too can own an unserialized firearm.

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions around what are commonly called “ghost guns.” Practically speaking, a “ghost gun” is just a homemade firearm that uses conventional firearm parts.

Let’s talk about what they are, the different kinds out there, the current legal status surrounding them and finally some 80 percent lower receivers and frames that are well worth the look.

80-percent-lower-feature-right-to-bear — A raw 80 percent lower receiver from Right To Bear.

What Is A Ghost Gun? What’s An 80 Percent Receiver?

Ghost gun is a colloquial term that refers to unserialized, homemade firearms that are built using commonly available firearm parts. They differ from “zip guns,” since zip guns are improvised firearms made from…well, anything.

An 80 percent lower receiver is not a legal term, it’s another colloquialism that refers to partially finished receivers that are not yet classified as firearms under the ATF’s definition.

Here is how the ATF (or more properly, BATFE) defines 80 percent lowers:

receiver blanks, castings, or machined bodies in which the fire control area is completely solid and un-machined have not yet reached the stage of manufacture which would result in the classification of a firearm under the GCA of 1968.

The Gun Control Act of 1968 defines a receiver as the part of the gun that “provides housing for the hammer, bolt or breechblock, and firing mechanism.” In other words, a gun isn’t legally a gun until you can install the firing mechanism. There are some wrinkles to this due to recent ATF rule changes we'll get to in a moment.

The GCA also states that homemade firearms (excluding NFA items) are legal for unprohibited persons to make, possess and shoot, so long as they are made for personal use.

80 Percent Kits

The term ”80 Percent lower” implies that only 80 percent of the receiver’s manufacturing has been completed. The actual figure isn’t easily calculated, but the 80 percent name stuck regardless of how accurate it is.

The most common “80 percent kits” are receiver blanks for either Glock clones or AR-15s. To complete each respective build, one must finish the lower receiver or frame then install the firing system and the upper or slide. When sold as “kits,” they typically also include the other necessary hardware, parts or jigs required for the building process.

Polymer80-Buy-Build-Shoot-Kit — A Polymer80 Glock clone kit with jig.

Other firearms designs can have different 80 percent kits and finishing processes, but Glock clones and AR-15s are the most common and some of the simplest to complete.

Why Would You Want An 80 Percent Kit?

Some people want a legally untraceable firearm for ideological reasons. Others want to skip having to fill out a 4473.

Some just enjoy the challenge of building their own gun and gain satisfaction from seeing it work. A lot of people get hooked on building AR-15s after they put their first one together, so an 80 percent kit would be the logical next step to challenge one’s builder skills.

After all, the vast majority of gun owners are normal, law-abiding people. They aren’t trying to make a weapon to commit crimes with. Most people who dabble in building their own guns choose to do so simply because they find it interesting.

It’s also a lot cheaper hobby than building cars.

Are 80 Percent Kits Legal?

Some state regulations have been enacted requiring a receiver or certain “firearm precursor parts” to have a serial number. Such laws exist in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York and Washington state.

The Biden administration has also enacted a rule—meaning a decision on how to enforce the laws on the books—stating that “buy, build, shoot kits” are considered firearms since they can be used to assemble a working gun.

The new rule, Final Rule 2021R-05F, was signed into policy by Attorney General Merrick Garland, to take effect on August 24th, 2022. It amends the definitions of the Gun Control Act of 1968, expanding the definitions of a receiver, among other things.

The definitions in Chapter 27, Subsection 478.12 of the Gun Control Act add the distinction that a frame or receiver includes a “partially complete, disassembled, or nonfunctional frame or receiver, including a frame or receiver parts kit, that is designed to or may readily be completed, assembled, restored, or otherwise converted to function as a frame or receiver.”

However, the rule clarifies that “…the terms shall not include a forging, casting, printing, extrusion, unmachined body, or similar article that has not yet reached a stage of manufacture where it is clearly identifiable as an unfinished component of a weapon.”

In other words, if it’s in striking distance of being completed, it will now be considered a receiver and must be serialized and requires a background check to purchase.

As for kits, “…the Director may consider any associated templates, jigs, molds, equipment, tools, instructions, guides, or marketing materials that are sold, distributed, or possessed with the item or kit, or otherwise made available by the seller or distributor of the item or kit to the purchaser or recipient of the item or kit.”

Steel-Fox-Firearms-80-percent-lower-with-jig-discontinued — A now-discontinued 80 percent lower and jig from Steel Fox Firearms.

The ATF further clarifies that a “partially complete billet or blank of a frame or receiver with one or more template holes drilled or indexed in the correct location is a frame or receiver.” (Emphasis added.)

So what does this mean?

An unfinished receiver that has had enough meaningful finishing work performed on it to be easily completed will now be considered a receiver. There’s a point at which it isn’t a blank anymore, and while the rule defines the presence of holes being the indicator, it doesn’t spell out much beyond that.

Kits that include jigs, tooling, instructions and an unfinished lower may be designated receivers and/or firearms if they can be readily made into a firearm. Shipping the kits in multiple packages does not circumvent the regulation.

In other words, kits become the “buy, build, shoot kits” when they are easy enough to complete, but precisely how “easy” has not yet been fully defined.

What it ultimately means is that 80 percent lowers, receivers and frames are currently in limbo until the ATF starts to clarify how to remain compliant with 2021R-05F. Manufacturers and retailers are likely to designate them “out of stock” in the meantime, but some may decide to keep selling them until instructed otherwise by the ATF.

Stealth-Arms-1911-Frame — An 80 percent 1911 frame from Stealth Arms.

Right now, the ball is in the ATF’s court to give the industry more clarification. Even when that day comes, it may all be for nothing, as the recent Supreme Court ruling on WEST VIRGINIA ET AL. v. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY ET AL. may have sweeping ramifications for the ATF’s “rule-making” abilities.

In short, this recent rule change does not ban 80 percent lowers or restrict one’s ability to build unserialized firearms at home. What it does do is add more confusion to an already complicated situation. Until the dust settles, manufacturers and sellers of so-called ghost gun style receivers and kits will have to tread more carefully to ensure they remain in compliance. The most likely result will be the prohibition of kits that include things like jigs and a reduction in how much an 80 percent lower can be finished while still being sold without a serial number. Available options will certainly be more limited as the industry attempts to sort this all out.

Different Kinds Of 80 Percent Lowers, Receivers And Frames

When it comes to 80 percent pistol frames, the most popular by far are polymer build kits that accept Glock components and uppers. Some kits for 1911 pistols exist as well.

As for rifles, 80 percent lowers for the AR-15 and AR-10 family (including DPMS and Armalite pattern) are the most common. AK receiver blanks and a small number of Galil, FAL, G3 and other rifle receiver blanks are all out there too.

Childers-AK-Tantal-receiver-80-percent — An 80 percent Tantal AK receiver blank from Childers Guns.

While polymer frames are fine for Glock clones, polymer 80 percent lowers for the AR-15 should be avoided, as the only polymer AR receiver worth considering is the KE ARMS KP-15 which doesn’t have an 80 percent option. While harder to work with than polymer, aluminum AR receivers are still the way to go. Receiver blanks for older rifle designs like AKs are almost always stamped steel, but some milled steel options exist too. Keep in mind that different materials will require different tools to finish, so take that into account before starting a build.

Regardless of the type of gun you plan on building, when it comes to unfinished receivers and frames, make sure to buy one that’s made from the appropriate material and is from a reputable manufacturer.

80 Percent Lower, Frame And Receiver Buyer’s Guide

Note: As discussed above, the current legal situation regarding 80 percent lowers is very tumultuous. Some of the entries here may not be available at the time of publication, but the buyer’s guide will be amended as the new rule becomes more clear and the market more stable. Until then, here are three worth looking at.

Right To Bear AR-15 80 Percent Lower

Right To Bear AR-15 80 percent lowers are mil-spec style, with a fenced magazine release and standard magwell. Their receiver blanks are forged (and heat-treated) 7075 aluminum.

To complete the lower, one must machine the trigger and safety wells. Jigs and tools are sold separately but are offered by Right To Bear as well.

You can get yours in the raw, anodized black or even Cerakoted. Right To Bear will also engrave and serialize your receiver blank for a fee.

MSRP: Starts at $59.99 // righttobear.com

Polymer80 PF940C

Polymer80 made the term “80 percent kit” popular. In fact, most Glock clones with non-OEM frames get theirs from Polymer80. Holster support—which is important—is decent for Polymer80 frames too.

PF940C kits are for a Glock 19/23 Gen 3 clone, with some other sizes available as well.

The grip has a straighter, more neutral rake for a more 1911-like feel, and a Picatinny rail. The kit comes with the unfinished frame in black, FDE or gray, and a jig to make all the necessary cuts and drill all the necessary holes.

MSRP: $159 // polymer80.com

Lone Wolf Distributors Freedom Wolf 80 Percent Kit

The Freedom Wolf is the 80 percent kit version of the Lone Wolf frame, long considered the best budget-friendly kit for Glock clone builds. It uses Gen 3 Glock parts and retains enough of the Glock trigger guard shape to be used in many Glock holsters.

The kit comes with the receiver blank, completion jig and other tooling, rail caps, backstraps and even drill bits for completing the build.

However, at the time of this writing, Lone Wolf is winding down any sales of the Freedom Wolf kits to comply with the ATF’s ruling. However, the Freedom Wolf may be resurrected as a build-your-own kit that’s serialized.

MSRP: $74.99 // lonewolfdist.com

More DIY Stuff:

DIY Guns: RECOIL Magazine’s Guide To Homebuilt Suppressors, 80 Percent Lowers, Rifle Mods And More
Building A 1911
Blue-Collar AR DMR Build
Building A Portable Precision Rifle
DIY AR Paint Job

First Look: Volquartsen ENV-HMR In .17 HMR

By

Adam Borisenko

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August 25, 2022

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Volquartsen has just released the ENV-HMR, the company's newest rimfire pistol now chambered for .17 HMR.

Volquartsen turned some heads in the rimfire world last year when they announced the ENV pistol in .22 LR. While the company was no stranger to high-end rimfires, the ENV was the most tactical model offered by the company to date, including features like a folding pistol brace, a threaded muzzle and an optics-ready receiver. Following its success, Volquartsen has just announced the expansion of the line with the ENV-HMR pistol chambered for .17 HMR.

This compact rimfire pistol line was designed for pest control, hunting small game and plinking at the range. While the previous .22 LR version already excelled at all three tasks, the new ENV-HMR provides even better ballistics for taking game and shooting at distance thanks to the .17 HMR chambering. It features an integral Picatinny rail for mounting optics, a lightweight 9-inch barrel that’s threaded 1/2×28 and a DEEP SIX Chassis by ENOCH with an SB Tactical folding arm brace. Each pistol also features a Magpul MOE-K grip, a Slate Black Industries hand stop and a TG2000 trigger group.

Volquartsen Product Development Specialist Kolby Pavlock said this about the new pistol:

Expand Your Knowledge on .17 HMR

Discovering the Best .17 HMR Rifle – Top Picks for Accuracy and Performance
Exploring the .17 HMR Pistol – What’s Available Today?
.17 HMR vs .22 Mag – Key Differences for Hunters and Shooters
The Great Cartridge Debate: .17 HMR vs .17 WSM
Exploring .17 HMR Velocity – Understanding Its Speed and Performance

Following the success of the 22 LR ENV it was time to step it up a notch. The ENV-HMR does exactly that – more energy, more firepower. The ENV-HMR offers 17 HMR ballistics in the same compact ENV configuration. It's as versatile in the field as it is fun on the range.

Each Volquartsen ENV-HMR is built to order, so expect some lead times, but they are available now. MSRP is $1,781.

For more information, please visit volquartsen.com.

More Rimfire Info:

Best .22 Ammo For Every Application
The .22 LR: Mini, Mighty And Many
The .22 LR And Its .22 Rimfire Cousins
The .22 LR For Self Defense: Good, Bad Or Crazy?

From The Old West To The Silver Screen: Upcoming RIAC Premier Auction

By

Adam Borisenko

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August 24, 2022

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Rock Island Auction Company has a Premier Auction planned for the weekend of August 26^th, and the catalog includes some interesting pieces from the Old West to the silver screen.

Rock Island Auction Company auctions always feature a wealth of interesting firearms, and the RIAC Premier Auction planned for the upcoming weekend of the 26^th is no different.

RIAC was kind enough to give me a virtual tour of the auction floor this week, so we’ll be showing off some of the coolest items they have on display. Whether you’re a serious collector looking to bid or just enjoy perusing rare, historical and sometimes very expensive firearms, here are a few highlights.

Wild Bill Hickok's Smith & Wesson Model No. 2 Old Army Revolver

Wild Bill Hickock is an Old West legend, and his supposed favorite sidearm, the S&W Model No. 2 Old Army Revolver, was legendary as well. This particular model coming up for auction includes documentation that supports its previous ownership by Hickock. The revolver itself is rather plain, featuring a standard blued finish, 6-inch barrel and rosewood grips, but because of its provenance, it’s estimated to demand a minimum of $150,000.

RIAC also mentioned that this auction may feature one of the most significant collections of Colt Single Action Armies they’ve ever sold, so if the Old West collectors come out in droves, Wild Bill’s gun may sell for even higher than that.

Lara Croft: Tomb Raider H&K USP 9 Match Pistols

These matching H&K USP 9 Match pistols were the main “hero guns” used by Angelina Jolie in the 2001 film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider. While the film itself may not have the same cult following as Star Wars, iconic movie weapons are always desirable, especially if they can be identified as the primary examples used on screen. That’s the case with these guns, which is why they’re expected to bring a minimum of $25,000 at auction.

These two H&Ks are identifiable not only by their sequential serial numbers but also through the unique modifications that were made to allow the actress to effectively dual-wield them. Both come with barrels modified to only allow the firing of blank cartridges, but they could presumably be reverted to fully functional states with new barrels.

Han Solo’s Heavy DL-44 Heavy Blaster From Star Wars: A New Hope

Undoubtedly the most iconic firearm featured in this auction is Han Solo’s blaster from the first Star Wars film. Throughout the original trilogy alone, there were several DL-44 blaster props produced for Harrison Ford to use on screen. This means that some DL-44s are more special, and therefore more valuable, than others.

Because the example in question can be traced to the original 1977 film and is made from a real Mauser C96, it is arguably the most desirable model to come up for sale. A replacement DL-44 prop made for Return Of The Jedi sold for $550,000 at auction in 2018, so this one may very well sell for an even higher price. Like the Tomb Raider pistols, this C96 was also modified to only fire blanks.

This upcoming RIAC Premier Auction will be held from August 26^th to the 28^th, and bidding is possible both online and in person. It’s worth noting that if you live near RIAC, it may be worth dropping by before an auction even if you don’t plan on buying anything.

The show floor is open to the public and is set up in a similar way to a museum exhibit, with the most noteworthy displays featuring information alongside them. From historically significant pieces to experimental designs, movie props to transferable machineguns, the RIAC catalog will never fail to make you drool.

If you’re interested in participating in the auction, more information can be found at rockislandauction.com.

More Historical Firearms:

Going the Distance with the Sharps Rifle
Colt Single-Action Army: Owning The Enduring Legend
Classic Guns: Winchester Model 1897 Pump-Action Shotgun
10 Guns From The Old West You’ve Got To Know

.45-70: Always Trust The Government

By

Richard A. Mann

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August 23, 2022

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There’s an argument to be made that the do-all .45-70 Government is America’s rifle cartridge.

It all started in 1873. That’s the same year that the two guns that won the West—the Colt Single-Action Army and the 73 Winchester—were introduced. As iconic as both of those guns are, both failed the test of time.

Something else that was introduced in 1873 survived, and that’s the .45-70 Government cartridge. Originally developed for the Trapdoor Springfield and even used in some military Gatling guns, the .45-70 is arguably the metallic cartridge that best represents America.

45-70-Feature — This new subsonic offering from Hornady utilizes a 410-grain bullet that’ll expand at subsonic impact velocities.

I know what you’re thinking: What about the .30-06 Springfield and the .45 ACP? Admittedly, both are iconic American cartridges that served veterans abroad in two World Wars. But neither have been around as long as the .45-70, nor have they bridged the gap from black to smokeless powder. When it was introduced, the .45-70 was loaded with a 405-grain .458-caliber bullet and 70 grains of blackpowder to a muzzle velocity of about 1,400 fps. The cartridge got its name from its caliber and charge-weight of blackpowder.

Marlin chambered their 1881 lever-action rifle for the .45-70, and that would ultimately be the platform where the cartridge found its longevity. Interestingly, between about 1930 and 1970, the .45-70 appeared to be headed toward extinction. By the standards of that time, its ballistics were underwhelming.

But something kind of magical occurred: As the cartridge’s centennial was approaching, three new .45-70 rifles hit the market. Harrington & Richards introduced it in a replica trapdoor, Ruger introduced it in their No. 1 single-shot, and Marlin began offering the .45-70 in their 1895 lever action.

The Government Afield

Something else very important happened, too; the stronger actions of the Ruger and Marlin could handle more potent .45-70 loads. Today, what you effectively have are three power levels of ammunition for the .45-70 Government.

Remington-Express-Rifle-405-gr-weak — Remington’s 405-grain JSP .45-70 load is a power level 1 offering, ideal for older .45-70 rifles with weaker actions.

While the rather anemic Remington 405-grain flat-point load represents the maximum safe load in the older guns, the Barnes VOR-TX 300-grain TSX bullet, at almost 2,000 fps, represents a midrange load. And, at the top level of .45-70 performance, you have the Buffalo Bore 430-grain hardcast load at about 1,900 fps. At each level, there are similar loads from other manufacturers, making the .45-70 suitable for anything walking planet Earth.

Bufallo-Bore-45-70 — For the biggest and baddest of critters, this power level 3, 430-grain hardcast load from Buffalo Bore is the optimum choice.

Black bear are typically hunted with hounds or over bait, and both methods don’t require long-range shots. What they do require is a hard-hitting cartridge that’ll incapacitate a black bear—fast. Houndsmen don’t want an injured black bear coming down a tree and tangling with their dogs, and those hunting over bait, typically in thick cover, don’t want to head into that thick underbrush looking for a wounded black bear. Mature black bears generally range in size from 150 to 450 pounds, and given these short-range conditions, the base level .45-70 loads are ideal for the job.

In 2013, I went to Alberta to hunt black bear and carried one of the first Marlin 1895 SBL lever actions in .45-70 Government. On the second day of the hunt, I found myself perched about 25 feet up a spruce tree, looking over a bait site where a dead beaver was hanging. About an hour before dark, a hulk of a black bear came creeping in. I made a plan to shoot him when he stood up to grab the dead beaver, but this guy was bait-site savvy. In one swift motion, he raised up, crunched down on the beaver and turned to run, full out for the cover of the dark timber.

My rifle was outfitted with XS Sights, and I tracked the bruin for about 10 yards. When the white front post found his shoulder, I pressed the trigger. The bear somersaulted forward and piled up in a wad. Range to target was about 35 yards, and the 300-grain Remington bullet passed through the top of the 300-pound bear’s heart and exited on the opposite side.

Remington-45-70-Express-Rifle — For hunting deer, hogs and bear at short range, and even for self-defense applications, Remington’s 300-grain power level 1 hollow-point load is a great choice.

That same summer I found myself in the grassland swamps of Mozambique with the same rifle, hunting African buffalo. However, this time my Marlin was stoked with much more powerful ammunition. As it turned out, I didn’t shoot the buffalo as well as I shot the bear. A bad first shot resulted in a long follow up that ended with my professional hunter and I heading into the long grass looking for a wounded and angry bull.

We spotted him at about 10 yards, bedded and waiting for us. My PH instructed me to shoot him in the shoulder, and I obliged. The buffalo obliged us by jumping to his feet and heading our way. Instantly, my guide smacked the buffalo with the right barrel of his .470 Nitro double rifle. The bull showed no reaction. Little did we know the bullet had hit his horn and nothing else of value. By that time, I’d already levered the Marlin and, knowing I had to stop the buffalo right now, I placed the reticle on his big black head and pulled the trigger. The desired result was achieved, and the charge was over.

Hornady-LeverEvolution-45-70 — Hornady offers two power level 2 .45-70 loads. One uses a 325-grain FTX bullet and the other uses a 250-grain all-copper MonoFlex bullet.

That buffalo had taken several 430-grain hardcast bullets, enough that many might think the cartridge and load aren’t enough gun. The reality was that, up until the last shot, I had shot poorly, and buffalo tend to not pay much attention to poorly placed shots. In stark contrast, the effectiveness of this same load was proven in Africa five years later when five other hunters and I took six buffalo. Unfortunately, my shooting on that trip was nothing to brag about either, but four of the six hunters had their buffalo on the ground with a single shot.

Mission-Matched Ammo

The bear and the buffalo hunts illustrate the extremes of the .45-70’s capabilities with the least and most powerful commercial loads offered. However, the most useful loads for the 45-70 are probably the midrange loads, exemplified by the 300-grain Barnes TSX, and two loads each from Hornady and Federal. In 2018, I took a magnificent mountain zebra stallion with the Barnes load, which delivered excellent through and through terminal performance at a range of about 75 yards. It also made short work of a bunch of warthogs, while helping the outfitter control their thriving population on his working cattle farm.

Barnes-45-70 — The Barnes VOR-TX 300-grain TSX .45-70 Government load is a great power level 2 offering.

The new Federal HammerDown load was tested extensively in blocks of Clear Ballistics and on feral hogs. This bullet expands wide and creates a massive wound cavity thoroughly sufficient for anything sized from hogs to moose.

Ballistically, this load is a copy of the Federal Fusion 300-grain load, but more important is the fact that the HammerDown cartridge cases are tweaked for optimum performance in a lever gun. This is accomplished with a slight chamfer on the forward edge of the cartridge rim, which makes loading easier. And the cartridge cases are nickel-plated to improve the smoothness of loading, functioning and feeding in lever guns.

Federal-HammerDown-Govt — Federal’s HammerDown 300-grain load might be the best power level 2 .45-70 load available for a lever-action rifle. Though ballistically identical to the Federal Fusion .45-70 load, HammerDown uses a cartridge case that has been tweaked for use in lever guns.

Long Live the King

In today’s world of long-range wonder guns, you’d think the .45-70 Government would be headed to extinction once again, but that’s not the case. It’s doubtful the lever gun will ever go out of style in America, and in a lever gun, the .45-70 offers a lot of versatility.

Fusion-4570-Govt — Federal’s 300-grain Fusion load for the .45-70 is ballistically identical to their HammerDown load but utilizes a commonly dimensioned rifle case.

It can serve an eastern whitetail hunter admirably, it can handle moose and elk—and where necessary, it has what’s needed to provide bear defense from browns and grizzlies. In defiance to the fact that the .45-70 has been around longer than any human shooting it today, it’s extremely versatile on a worldwide scale.

The starring role of the Marlin SBL in the 2017 movie Wind River did nothing but increase the gun and cartridge’s popularity. And now, with the allowance of straight-wall cartridges for deer hunting in states where centerfire rifle cartridges were previously not allowed, it’s safe to say the .45-70 is more popular than ever.

I don’t see that changing anytime soon, and I know for a fact there’ll always be a .45-70 in my gun safe. Well, that’s where it’ll be when it’s not in my hands in West Virginia, Montana, Texas or Africa … or wherever else I might be.

Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the May 2021 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

Raise Your Ammo IQ:

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First Look: RCBS 30 Super Carry And .44 Auto Mag Die Sets

By

Adam Borisenko

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August 23, 2022

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RCBS has just released two new die sets for 30 Super Carry and .44 Auto Mag, giving reloaders even more caliber options to play with.

RCBS is one of the biggest names in reloading, and it’s easy to see why if you’ve ever gotten to reload using RCBS equipment. The company already had many caliber options available, offering die sets for not only the most popular cartridges but for more niche options as well. The impressive lineup has just gotten even bigger, however, as two more somewhat esoteric reloading options are now available through the addition of 30 Super Carry and .44 Auto Mag die sets.

While there’s a chance that 30 Super Carry will someday gain traction, until it does, it’s still relegated to the niche side of pistol calibers where it sits comfortably alongside other oddballs like .44 Auto Mag. While nobody today is burning through massive volumes of either cartridge, the ability to reload them at home certainly increases their round-count potential. Whether you’re a 30 SC early-adopter or a dedicated .44 AMP shooter, RCBS now has your reloading needs covered.

Each RCBS die set comes in a green box and includes a sizing die (made out of carbide to eliminate the need to lubricate cases), an expander die and a taper crimp seat die. The MSRP for the .44 Auto Mag die set is $129.95 and the 30 Super Carry version costs $108.99. Both are available now.

For more information on the new die sets, please visit rcbs.com.

Get More Reloading Info:

Tips For Reloading the .30-06 Springfield
Loving Your Luger: Reloading the 9mm Luger
Handloading: Tips For Reloading The 7mm Rem Mag
How To: Tips For Reloading the .223 Remington
Reloading Bench: The Inside On Reloading For The .30-30 Winchester

.44 Magnum Ammo: 8 Top Options For Hunting, Protection And Plinking

By

Sam Hoober

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August 22, 2022

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Looking for the best .44 Magnum ammo to feed your wheel or lever gun? Here we cover eight top loads and the best ways to use them.

We went over .44 Magnum revolvers, so now let's talk about .44 Magnum ammo. We’ll briefly go over ballistics and then look at eight great .44 Magnum loads and what they’re best used for.

These .44 Remington Magnums are loaded with Barnes XPB lead-free hollow-points, and the crimp is set perfectly. — *Photo: J.D. Fielding Photography*.

.44 Magnum For Concealed Carry Or Home Defense

While .44 Magnum had some limited adoption in law enforcement, it is not an optimal choice for defense.

Arguably, the current authority on terminal ballistics and ammunition performance is Dr. Gary K. Roberts, the protege and colleague of Dr. Martin Fackler, who helped the FBI develop its testing protocol.

Dr. Roberts' tests of .44 Magnum, hosted on AR15.com, indicate fast-opening, light-for-caliber bullets are the best picks for defensive use against human threats as they tend to not over penetrate.

Dr-Gary-Roberts-44-Magnum-Gel-Test — Some of the recovered bullets from Dr. Roberts' .44 Magnum ballistic gel tests. Photo: Dr. Gary Roberts.

For instance, the 300-grain Hornady XTP JHP load penetrated over 20 inches in bare gelatin and expanded to an average of 0.7 inches while retaining all weight. While impressive, the results indicate a possibility of over-penetration, meaning that the bullet could likely exit the target with enough velocity to still prove lethal to bystanders in a defensive scenario.

If overpenetration is a concern— and it needs to be for defensive use—choose your ammunition carefully. You are accountable for every bullet that leaves the muzzle. If it hits the threat AND someone else, you're still liable.

.44 Magnum Ammo: Expanding Vs. Hardcast

Wiki-Commons-44-Remington-Magnum — A .44 Magnum round loaded with a lead flat-nose bullet. Photo: Wikipedia.

The primary purpose of expanding ammunition is for the bullet to deform in a fleshy target, causing the bullet to slow down and not penetrate as deeply, making the chances of a through-and-through less likely.

While a larger wound cavity does result from the bullet expanding, most of it is only temporary. What a lot of people forget is that tissue is quite elastic and returns to its original structure fairly quickly. Marksmanship and penetration are the greater shares of lethality regardless of the projectile type being used.

What do hardcast bullets do? They punch deeper holes, and aren't dependent on barrel length for terminal performance.

In short, hardcast bullets are preferable when over-penetration is irrelevant and the target needs a hole put in it good and hard, such as big or dangerous game. Expanding .44 Magnum ammo is better suited for soft targets that don't need maximum penetration like whitetail or hogs.

.44 Magnum Ammo Buyer’s Guide

Hornady 300-Grain XTP JHP

The Hornady 300 XTP JHP load is perfect for medium-game hunting. It penetrates deeply, expands reliably and retains weight very well, which XTP hollow points have long been known for.

A 6-inch or longer barrel is best for expanding .44 Magnum ammo such as this, but it will perform just fine from a 4-inch gun as well. The advertised velocity is 1,150 feet per second with 881 foot-pounds of energy.

Price: ~$35 Per Box of 20 // hornady.com

HSM Cowboy Action Ammunition .44 Magnum 200 Grain Flat Nose

There's no such thing as “cheap plinking”.44 Magnum ammo, but this load gets you close. HSM's Cowboy Action line is made for CASS and SASS shooters, and is a very mild load utilizing a black powder substitute.

It's a 200-grain cast flat nose (Keith semi-wadcutter) bullet, good for an advertised 975 feet per second and 422 foot-pounds of energy. While still not cheap, this is about the cheapest .44 Magnum ammo you can buy, and it’s very soft-shooting to boot.

If you enjoy shooting your .44 Magnum for fun, get this load and enjoy. It could also serve as a capable medium game hunting load in a carbine inside 100 yards if it’s all you had available.

Price: ~$50 Per Box of 50 // hsmammunition.com

Hornady .44 Magnum 225 Grain FTX LEVERevolution

Hornady's LEVERevolution line purports to make cartridges more aerodynamic. The G1 BC of this load is .145…so it's not. But it is a good hunting load in a carbine or handgun, as it's the same bullet design as Critical Defense and Critical Duty.

According to Hornady themselves, this 225-grain FTX load—with a 100-yard zero—has a first intercept at 25 yards, a second intercept at 100 yards and drops 5.4 inches at 150 yards, for something like a maximum point blank range of about 125 yards with a 1.5-inch offset. At 200 yards, the point of impact drops about 16.5 inches.

Velocity is an advertised 1,410 fps with 993 foot-pounds of energy from a 7.5-inch barrel. A 16-inch or 18-inch carbine would add about another 200 to 300 fps on top of that.

MSRP: ~$30 Per Box of 20 // hornady.com

Buffalo Bore 305-Grain Hard Cast Flat Nose Gas Check

Buffalo Bore is one of the go-to ammunition brands for hard-hitting, heavy game loads for revolvers. Their 305-grain hard cast load would be an excellent pick for large or dangerous game in almost any .44 Magnum.

Factory velocities are given as 1,328 fps through a 6-inch barrel and 1,779 fps through an 18.5-inch carbine. At 1,328 fps, that nets around 1,200 foot-pounds of energy, but just shy of 2,000 foot-pounds through an 18.5-inch barrel. That's the same muzzle energy as a .30-30.

This .44 Magnum ammo is designed to penetrate deeply in whatever it hits, so it's a natural choice for a backup handgun or lever-action in bear country.

MSRP: $53.68 Per Box of 20 // buffalobore.com

Winchester Super-X 210-Grain Silvertip JHP

If you were going to keep a .44 Magnum for defense (.44 Special would be better, but we'll save that topic for later) what information is out there favors fast-opening, light-for-caliber expanding bullets.

This 210-grain JHP load in .44 Magnum is a perfect candidate for defense or as a medium game load at modest ranges. Winchester claims 1,250 fps of velocity and 729 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle, so it's mild as far as .44 Magnum ammo goes.

This would be a good defensive loading in a 4-inch revolver and decent for hunting medium game.

Price: ~$40 Per Box of $20 // winchester.com

Underwood Ammunition 255-Grain Cast Lead Keith Semi-Wadcutter

This is the original .44 Magnum woods load.

The .44 Magnum was the brainchild of the “.44 Associates,” a group of handloaders who hot-loaded .44 Special, among them the legendary Elmer Keith. Keith also devised a semi-wadcutter bullet design with a flat nose and sharp shoulder for multi-purpose use.

The 255-grain Keith SWC load excels at target shooting and hunting, hitting hard and penetrating deep. Excluding scenarios where overpenetration is of concern, it's an excellent all-purpose load.

Underwood's 255-grain hard cast Keith SWC has a polymer coating for cleaner shooting and is rated for 1,350 fps and 1,032 foot-pounds at the muzzle. It's good for all platforms, and taking a Stetson and a cigar to the range is highly encouraged.

MSRP: $31.99 Per Box of 20 // underwoodammo.com

Remington UMC 180-grain Jacketed Soft Point

While not quite as cheap as the aforementioned HSM Cowboy Action load, Remington UMC 180-grain JSP is as close as you get to cheap .44 Magnum ammo that’s still loaded to full power. It's tenable for defense or medium game hunting with most platforms including 4-inch and 6-inch (or longer) revolvers, as well as carbines.

It's a fast, light-for-caliber, controlled-expansion load, and Remington claims it can do 1,610 fps and 1,036 foot-pounds at the muzzle. If you don't have bears to worry about, it's a decent all-purpose load for revolvers or carbines. The best at any one thing? Maybe not, but it checks a lot of boxes.

MSRP: $66.99 Per Box of 50 // remington.com

Federal Premium HammerDown 270-Grain Bonded Soft Point

Lest we forget, .44 Magnum is also a common chambering in lever-action rifles. The Federal Premium HammerDown 270-Grain Bonded Soft Point is made for the lever-action rifle hunter.

Bonded bullets hold together when penetrating tissue, keeping the jacket from separating and ensuring deeper penetration. That was the great leap forward in rifle bullet technology almost a century ago (Bitterroot Bonded and Nosler Partition) and in JHP pistol bullets in the 1990s with Speer Gold Dot.

This load is designed for deeper penetration with controlled expansion, ideal for deer, hogs, black bear and elk, and to function reliably in lever-action rifles. Federal advertises a velocity of 1,715 fps at the muzzle with 1,763 foot-pounds of energy and is good for a maximum point blank range of about 125 yards.

MSRP: $38.99 Per Box of 20 // federalpremium.com

More Big-Bore Articles:

Is .44 Magnum A Wise Choice For Concealed Carry?
A Case For The Defensive Big-Bore Revolver
Top 10 Hunting Revolver Options
Rolling With A .45 ACP Revolver

Smith & Wesson Launches Model 350 In .350 Legend

By

Adam Borisenko

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August 19, 2022

0

Smith & Wesson has just launched the S&W Model 350, a new DA/SA revolver chambered for the fast-moving .350 Legend cartridge.

Smith & Wesson has been making revolvers for over 150 years, and the company needs no introduction. But even old dogs learn new tricks sometimes, and that’s the case with the new S&W Model 350. It’s the company’s first-ever production revolver chambered for .350 Legend.

.350 Legend was only introduced in 2019, but it’s been one of the fastest growing hunting cartridges since in terms of popularity. Until now, however, it’s primarily been utilized in bolt-actions and AR-style rifles. With the launch of the S&W Model 350, now handgun hunters have a greater opportunity to use .350 Legend as well. At first glance, the S&W Model 350 appears to be a fairly typical Smith & Wesson DA/SA revolver, but it has a few extra features that help take it to the next level.

Built on Smith’s large X-Frame, the Model 350 is a double-action/single-action 7-shot revolver made out of stainless steel. It has an adjustable rear sight, a red ramp front sight and a 7.5-inch barrel. The barrel has also been ported to help mitigate recoil, working in conjunction with the Hogue rubber grip. The 7-shot cylinder is also fed using moon clips.

John Myles, Senior Manager of New Products at Smith & Wesson, said this about the new revolver:

The 350 Legend is one of the flattest shooting straight-walled cartridges on the market today. It is great for medium-sized game and especially whitetail hunting. If you’re looking for a hunting revolver, the Model 350 is it.

The S&W Model 350 is available now. It has an MSRP of $1,599 and includes moon clips with each purchase.

For more information, please visit smith-wesson.com.

More Handgun Hunting Info:

Serious Big Bores: Beyond the .44 Magnum
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Hunting: The Hard-Hitting .45-Caliber Revolver Cartridges
Is A .50-Caliber Handgun Actually Good For Anything?

Carrying Full-Size Handguns

By

Josh Wayner

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August 18, 2022

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Are full-size handguns too big to carry? Sometimes small CCW pistol options are limited, so you need to know how to make do with what you have.

We all remember how toilet paper and hand sanitizer flew off the shelves a year ago. Akin to the aforementioned commodities, the surge in carry pistol purchases has created an artificial scarcity that has left the shelves stocked with less-than-ideal options for self-defense, especially outside the home.

For the latecomers to the game, full-size handguns are sometimes all that’s available. Luckily, carrying a big gun isn’t difficult; it just takes a bit more planning to make it feasible.

Handguns aren’t something that occupy a one-size-fits-all mentality. A Glock 19 is a small gun to some people, and it’s a large gun for others. It’s generally considered a happy medium, and many others have spawned in the same size and capacity range. As a result, it can be thought of as probably the most generic and “normal” handgun out there.

For our purposes here, we’re considering the Glock 19 and other in-class pistols as the cutoff for a full-size handgun category. While some will, of course, disagree, a 4-inch 9mm with a 15-round magazine is a large gun for a person standing at 5-foot-1 and weighing 100 pounds. It’s all relative to the individual, but the principles remain the same even if you’re 6-foot-4 and 300 pounds with hands large enough to palm a beach ball.

Full-size-handguns-feature — Polymer guns can weigh far less than their steel counterparts. The Sig M17 is a light pistol, even with 18 rounds onboard. It is a full-size handgun, but it’s not at all as heavy as a fully kitted-out 1911. Both can be carried effortlessly with planning.

Holsters For Full-Size Handguns

The first thing to consider about carrying full-size handguns is the type of holster that you should look at. The most reasonable option is to carry outside the waistband (OWB). This, of course, varies from the more popular inside the waistband (IWB) method, wherein the pistol is more easily concealed under clothing. An OWB holster is universally a better method for carrying a large gun for several reasons.

Weight distribution is a major factor in carrying a full-size handgun. Some larger guns are indeed much lighter than others, but the same applies to all in that the mass of any large gun is typically spread out across a larger area in the barrel and grip. This means that you’ll want to rock ’n’ roll with a holster that helps distribute that weight across a larger area on the belt. If you do this properly, you won’t even notice the weight of the gun on your hip.

A second thing to consider is overall comfort in relation to other methods of carry. IWB holsters typically address two areas of the body, those being strong side and near the appendix. Appendix holsters mount the gun in the front of the pelvis, making for a fast draw, but if you have a long barrel and grip, it’ll make sitting uncomfortable and very difficult to conceal in the front of the shirt. Strong-side carry IWB is feasible, but again—sitting can be uncomfortable due to the barrel extending further down, thus creating something of a lever against the seat, which can put pressure on the sciatic nerve in the pelvis and cause numbness.

Large-Handgun-Holsters — Custom holsters are available for virtually every gun and light combination out there.

The most uncomfortable thing about IWB carry with a full-size handgun is the bulge the gun creates against the body when the belt is tightened. Wearing a good belt is critical here, and because of added weight, the belt needs to be rigid and capable of bearing the extra mass without sagging. For this reason, OWB is clearly superior in that the belt can be worn as normal with no pressure points along its length. It can be snugged up like usual and you won’t experience the sliding or eventual numbness that can occur with a heavy gun stuffed down your pants.

Materials vary with individual preference, but today’s modern materials are much lighter than leather, which itself can add weight to an already heavy gun. The holsters featured here are from BlackPoint Tactical, and they’re experts in making products that blend materials like leather and polymer. These holsters take advantage of all their materials; the rigidity of steel belt loops, the flexibility and comfort of leather, and the weight savings of polymer. These holsters represent the best of what’s available for blended materials and have virtually no downsides for carry.

Leather holsters for full-size guns are definitely viable; however, most require break-in periods and don’t have the same resistance to sweat and abrasion as a polymer holster. Leather traps moisture and is slow to dry out when it gets wet. It should be noted that you’ll certainly need a holster to carry a large handgun, and if you only have access to a leather rig, you should certainly buy it even if it’s just a stopgap. Order times can be weeks—and even months—for a polymer holster these days.

If you have an obscure gun due to lack of availability of popular models, you might find that there are few holsters out there for your actual model. Luckily, especially when it comes to leather, you can find something that’s a near approximation. For many large pistols, the dimensions aren’t all that far off.

Fuull-size-handguns-holster-clips — The best OWB holsters use steel loops. Thicker belts demand wider loops, so keep in mind how thick and wide your choice of gun belt is as you order a holster.

For instance, if you can’t find a holster for your used AREX at the pawn shop, oftentimes holsters for the Sig P226 will fit. You might have to do some playing around or buy a subpar option to start, but you should always do your best to at least get a proper one ordered; it’ll make a difference in comfort.

Belts Are Life

Know this: The standard $10 belt at the local grocery superstore won’t cut it here. A great number of people just stick a 1911 on their regular belt and are stunned by how terrible it is to carry. A proper belt for a full-size handgun isn’t hard to find, and many are old news today. I’ve favored the same Galco belt for almost 10 years. It has a rigid liner in it that prevents the belt from bending or flexing under weight, thus allowing it to take the weight of a large handgun without collapsing.

Full-size-handguns-belts — A cinch-style belt like the Galco is the author’s choice, as it allows universal adjustment. Traditional belts are, of course, feasible but are limited to their adjustment holes, resulting in a situation where it can be either too tight or too loose, both of which are bad.

If a nylon belt is a bit too “military” for you, there are many companies that make very rigid and strong traditionally-styled belts as well. Bigfoot Gunbelts makes a steel-lined belt that’s probably the most rigid on the market today. This isn’t a cinch-style belt like the Galco, and it has regular belt holes in it to tighten it. VersaCarry also makes a fantastic gun belt.

Some people like the hole-style belts, but I’ve found that set holes can sometimes be too tight or too loose for carry with a heavy gun. The cinch-style is much better for comfort, as it can be adjusted exactly without being too tight or too loose. It’s equally uncomfortable to have a large gun moving around loose as it is to have it too tight. Fit should be snug and not painful.

Full-size-handguns-belt-thickness — Belts can be very thick and heavy. This steel-cored Bigfoot belt is almost as thick as a 9mm cartridge! Plan ahead and try several options if you’re able to in order to ensure you’ll be comfortable.

Full-Size Or Super Size?

For a long time, people have broken defensive pistols into two general categories: the carry gun and the “nightstand gun.” The carry gun is a class we’re all familiar with, and it used to mean relatively small, somewhat featureless guns … sometimes sacrificing power for size.

The nightstand gun is a category that usually contained the larger, more feature-rich handguns that could mount lights and larger magazine capacities. These were usually the 5-inch service pistols, such as the 1911 or Beretta M9, or even 6-inch .357 Mag. revolvers. The guns here were easier to shoot, but as this concept reached greater popularity, were rarely carried as a result of widely available compact pistols and a lack of holsters capable of allowing comfortable carry.

Times Have Changed For The Better

Besides being easier to shoot accurately, the major advantage of full-size handguns is greater opportunity to install accessories. This seems counterintuitive, but since a large gun already requires a bit of planning to carry, you had best take advantage of all the available real estate. A good thing is that most full-size guns today have accessory rails. Some do not, like classic 1911s, M9s and older models like the Sig M11A1 and original P220. The option to mount optics and red-dots also exists in these cases.

An interesting point to make is that the most common accessory for full-size handguns, the weapon-mounted flashlight, can often make a compact pistol as large as a full-size. For instance, the Glock 19 with a SureFire X300U mounted is as long as a 1911. You’ll need to get appropriate holsters for this, and it’s rare to find IWB holsters that support large, bright flashlights like the SureFire.

A full-size handgun isn’t difficult to carry, even with a light attached, if you have the proper gear.

Optics are a fairly new category, but it’s now common to find factory guns with cuts for a variety of slide-mounted dot sights. The Trijicon RMR is the most well-known, but others exist that are more appropriate for a budget or used gun on the rack at your local store. These sights usually don’t add much weight at all, but they definitely add functionality.

Overall, a light and a red dot will make your full-size handguns only a few ounces heavier, but far more capable for more bad situations.

Last Picked

The most common full-size handguns on the shelf these days are the ones that people don’t usually want if they have the choice. These picked-over guns generally drop into two types: the used .40 S&W and the expensive 1911.

Guns chambered for .40 S&W aren’t too popular these days, and more manufacturers are dropping .40-cal offerings from their rosters. It was supposed to be a do-all cartridge, but it ended up being something of a redheaded stepchild instead. It replaced neither the 9mm nor the .45 ACP, both of which are more popular now than they ever were for their respective qualities.

The reason you find a number of used .40s on the shelf is because they’re just generally obsolete. Law enforcement agencies were the primary users of the cartridge, and then they began dropping it for 9mm as more advanced bullets became widely accepted and available. Surplus pistols are often cheap and badly beaten up, but they do work well in most cases.

If you buy a .40-cal., such as a Glock 22 or a Sig P320, you can easily get a second barrel in .357 Sig and 9mm, the latter of which will require new magazines. One gun can be easily swapped between these three calibers should availability be an issue.

The 1911 pistols are often priced above the comfort level of the average buyer. As a result, they’re probably the most common sight in the gun bread line at Cabela’s. These are heavy guns, but they certainly aren’t impossible to carry. The 1911 was the standard for about a century, and there’s a myriad of good holster options for them out there. Remember: A good belt makes the 1911 quite easy to tote around.

Take What You Can Get

A nice thing about larger guns is that they’re almost always available in one form or another. Hard times cause innovation, and it’s likely with more and more people owning guns these days, there’ll be a corresponding increase in demand for options to make them suitable for carry and everyday use.

Don’t be discouraged if a full-size pistol is all you can get—just make sure to take the steps to ensure it ends up on your belt and not just the nightstand.

Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the 2021 CCW special issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

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New Guns And Gear August 2022

By

Gun Digest Editors

-

August 17, 2022

0

Looking for a new iron or piece of kit to enhance the one you already own? Check out these 7 new bits of guns and gear to grow your firearms wish list.

The New Guns And Gear:

Colt King Cobra Target .22 LR
Taurus 856 Executive Grade Revolver
Standard Manufacturing Switch Gun
Heritage Manufacturing Barkeep Boot
Real Avid Master Gun Vise
Federal Ammunition .22 WMR Punch Personal Defense
Winchester 125-grain .38 Special +P Super-X Silvertip

Colt King Cobra Target .22 LR

There’s a tingle that comes with Colt’s latest foray into revolvers, knowing the manufacturer might’ve nailed it on the head. Lovingly dubbed the “Baby Snake,” the King Cobra Target .22 LR delivers the aesthetics and performance of the original .357 Magnum, but in a 10-shot rimfire. The all-stainless-steel revolver has some nice twists, whether it’s eventually aimed at a bull’s-eye competition or high-end plinking. It’s available in two barrel lengths (4 and 6 inches), each with a 1:16 twist, is outfitted with Hogue rubber grips, and comes with a bright front fiber-optic sight. As expected with a target model, the King Cobra also boasts a fully adjustable rear sight, so you can dial it in.
MSRP: $999

Taurus 856 Executive Grade Revolver

Revolver fans are more than familiar with the buck-saving performance Taurus has offered up over the years. Hey, it’s gotten more than one penny-pincher shooting. Tacking somewhat from its proven course, the Brazilian manufacturer is aiming at a higher-end market with the introduction of the Executive Grade line. Kicking things off is the Taurus stalwart 856. As an Executive Grade iteration, the +P .38 Special is built around an all-stainless-steel frame and wears a dashing set of Altamont walnut grips. Aimed at concealed carry, Taurus bobbed the hammer, machined all snag points and hand-tuned each DAO trigger for a smooth, stack-free pull. For the extra money, it looks to offer some solid and attractive upgrades.
MSRP: $689

Standard Manufacturing Switch Gun

Given that it’s a difficult proposition to get an armed citizen to carry their primary arm consistently, adding a backup gun to the regimen is an even taller task—but Standard Manufacturing might’ve found a way. Its Switch Gun puts five rounds of potentially lifesaving .22 WMR on tap in a package not a heck of a lot larger than a spare magazine. The stainless-steel and polymer revolver is a true pocket-rocket, folding up into a palm-sized rectangle and deploying at the push of a button. The one catch? It’s SAO, which might not appeal to some. But as an insurance policy on your life, it’s more than capable.
MSRP: $449

Heritage Manufacturing Barkeep Boot

For a bargain single-action army variant, the Heritage Barkeep made waves when it hit the scene in 2021. It continues to do so in 2022 with perhaps one of the more unique configurations to grace throw-back wheel guns in a spell. As hinted by its name, the Barkeep Boot is Heritage’s crack at something to slip into the stack of your Tony Lamas. With a 1.68-inch barrel and relatively modest 25 ounces in weight, the .22 LR will fit there, but more likely the six-round revolver is better served as a distinctive pint-sized plinker. Heritage offers the Boot Barkeep with three choices of grip material—gray pearl, black wood and wood with a snake motif—on its bird’s head grip. And each comes at a price few folks can pass up.
MSRP: Starting at $197

Real Avid Master Gun Vise

Revolvers, pistols or otherwise—to maintain your firearms, you need the tools for the job. A good gun vise is among the first that should grace your bench. Real Avid has you covered with a unit specifically designed for the job at hand, offering a ton more flexibility over a traditional bench vise. The Master Gun Vise not only repositions to hold your firearms at nearly any angle—a plus for many jobs—but it also comes with accessories to fit the tool to the job. One of the more notable is its Gun-Fit jaw sleeves that provided the exact hold for the particular firearm being worked on. Other extras, like a leveling knob (great for mounting scopes) and Torq-Lok pin for applying heavy force, make the Master the ideal implement for any DIY project.
MSRP: $300

Federal Ammunition .22 WMR Punch Personal Defense

For some, the .22 Magnum is the most viable self-defense option out there. Federal Premium is making sure those folks have the best possible ammo for the job. Expanding its line of economical personal-defense ammo, the ammo maker recently unveiled its Punch .22 WMR load. Boasting a 45-grain nickel-plated lead-core bullet, the round is designed for maximum penetration needed in personal-defense scenarios. This new load has gone through rigorous testing for reliability and function. The case of the Punch .22 WMR is nickel-plated for easier extraction and corrosion resistance, as well. Overall, when it comes to defending your life, Federal is ensuring the .22 WMR is up to the task.
MSRP: $26 Per Box Of 50

Winchester 125-grain .38 Special +P Super-X Silvertip

A unique combination of power, precision and reliable functioning, Winchester Super-X Silvertip is a trusted commodity for self-defense. Now, the ammo maker has added a souped-up option in the time-tested .38 Special: a 125-grain +P load more than capable of taking care of business. Specially engineered for top performance out of short-barreled revolvers, the ammo has an impressive muzzle velocity of 945 fps, guaranteeing top performance from the Silvertip bullets. The projectiles themselves were originally developed for law enforcement as a replacement for traditional hollow-points and deliver penetration and rapid energy release with virtually no weight loss or bullet fragmentation. Super-X jacketed hollow-points have notched jackets to ensure positive expansion, thus a devastating wound channel.
MSRP: $50 Per Box Of 50

Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the August 2022 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

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First Look: Sig Sauer P365-XMACRO

By

Adam Borisenko

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August 17, 2022

0

Sig Sauer has just released the P365-XMACRO pistol, a new member of the P365 family that boasts a 17+1 capacity of 9mm.

It’s no secret that Sig Sauer has been dominating the carry gun market these past few years, with the P365, P365 XL and other variants providing concealed carriers with small, light guns with large ammunition capacities for their respective sizes. For those who prefer carrying larger handguns with even higher capacities, however, Sig has just released the P365-XMACRO.

Like the P365s that came before it, the P365-XMACRO is a striker-fired 9mm with a polymer frame. It shares the same slim, 1-inch thickness as the older models, but now has a taller frame to accommodate the new 17-round magazines. Other features include an integrally compensated slide, XRAY3 day/night sights, a flat trigger and three interchangeable backstraps for the Macro-Compact grip module. Each P365-XMACRO also features a standard accessory rail and an optics-ready slide with a ROMEOZero/Shield RMSc footprint.

While not quite as small as the original P365 models, the P365-XMACRO boasts increased shootability and a larger capacity with flush-fitting mags. Original P365s may have been capable of holding 16 rounds on tap when using one of the extended 15-round mags, but that makes their grips nearly as long as the P365-XMACRO’s which holds two more rounds with flush-fitting magazines.

P365-XMACRO-comparison — Size comparison between a Sig P365X and the Sig P365-XMACRO. Photo: HandgunHero.com.

Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President of Commercial Sales at Sig Sauer, Tom Taylor, said this on the new pistol’s primary selling point:

The innovative magazine design of the P365-XMACRO delivers on capacity while maintaining the slim design, making it more comfortable and more concealable than any other 17+1-round pistol on the market.

Each Sig P365-XMACRO includes two 17-round mags and three interchangeable backstraps. It has an MSRP of $799.99 and it’s available now.

For more information, please visit www.sigsauer.com.

More CCW Pistols:

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10 Best Single-Stack 9mm Pistols For Carry
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The Cost Of Hunting Rifles

By

Philip Massaro

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August 16, 2022

4

Are the most expensive hunting rifle models worth their price?

At one point in time, in the not too distant past, cheap rifles were exactly that: cheap. Generally speaking, the inexpensive hunting rifles of yesteryear left an awful lot to be desired. And while quite a lot of meat was made in my hunting circles with those budget-friendly guns, we could’ve done with a bit of improvement in the accuracy department.

Fast-forward to the past decade or so, and the improvement in inexpensive rifles has shot up faster than the recent prices at the pump. You can cobble together a viable 1,000-yard-capable rig for under $1,000, and that just wasn’t the case when I was young.

So, the question has popped up several times around the campfire: Are the expensive rifles still worth the price?

Heym-Model-98B-Hunting-Rifle — The Heym Model 89B is a great value in the double rifle market, though will still cost the hunter over $20,000. It has many features of rifles costing well over $50,000. Photo credit: Doug King.

Trading Dollars For Performance

To be completely honest, I’ve owned and/or hunted with some rifles that were downright embarrassing, and some that were very costly … at least for a man of my means. Odds are pretty good that I’ll never be the owner of a Holland & Holland Royal double rifle or a Rigby Rising Bite.

I did, however, invest in a Heym Model 89B double gun as well as one of Heym’s Express by Martini bolt rifles and consider them to be prized possessions. I also take off-the-shelf Savages, Rugers, Winchesters and Brownings and a number of other brands afield each year, and the game animals couldn’t care less which logo the rifle carries.

Ruger-Mark-77-Mk-II — The author’s Ruger Model 77 MKII in .308 Winchester isn’t expensive but will assuredly give a lifetime of good service if properly cared for. Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.

Looking at the wide spectrum of hunting rifles available, with their equally wide spectrum of price tags, the buyer needs to ask which features they’d like, which features they’d need and which are frivolities. I know hunters who wouldn’t consider the prospect of putting a “Tupperware” stock in their gun safe, and I know others who feel that deep chocolate mineral streaks in a piece of mesmerizing walnut is best reserved for fine furniture and other museum pieces.

To some hunters—my father, Ol’ Grumpy Pants, comes quickly to mind—a rifle is a bullet launcher; no more and no less. To others (me, for sure), a rifle has life. It’s the partner on a million adventures, and the sight, feel and even smell of that rifle conjures countless memories of days afield with hunting friends both present and past, or those times spent alone in precarious situations only you will remember.

I don’t ever judge a hunter on the cost of his or her rifle, having been the guy embarrassed by what I could afford. And much like the world of guitar players, the ability to buy a premium vintage Gibson or Fender certainly doesn’t give you the ability to play it like Jimmy Page or Jeff Beck.

I’ve missed easy shots with expensive rifles and made near-impossible ones with budget guns. I strive to have gear that’s better than I am in order to make my shooting or hunting ability the weak link in the chain, but I can’t and will not try to financially compensate for a lack of either of those skills no more than I would choose a larger cartridge with a heavier bullet to make up for poor shot placement.

Heym-Model-98B — Among double rifles, the Heym Model 89B gives the best value on the market right now, carrying a price tag affordable when compared to other double rifles, yet carrying many of the features of a rifle twice its price. Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.

What Exactly Defines ‘Expensive?’

Let’s also define expensive. Merriam-Webster defines it as an adjective, “involving high cost or sacrifice.” I can agree with that completely for our purposes.

For example, a premium-quality bespoke bolt-action rifle can have a price tag approaching $50,000 or more, and a double rifle can easily get into the six-figure range. I’ve held a Holland & Holland with a price tag of nearly $400,000, and yes, my hands were trembling.

What’s expensive to one person may be just a dream for another, or sometimes the price wouldn’t dent the yearly budget. To further qualify my personal decisions, I’d rather own a few serviceable rifles and travel to hunt the species I’ve always dreamed about in those places I’d love to see than have a safe full of valuable queens that never see an airport.

What justifies the wide range of prices among hunting rifles? Well, labor has become incredibly expensive, and the more handwork and attention to detail a rifle has, the higher the price tag will be. Additionally, the supply of premium walnut for those stocks that so many of us find attractive is drying up; we’re simply consuming walnut at a faster rate than it can grow.

For those who wish to own a pretty stick of wood on their rifle, there’ll be a premium attached. Is that worthwhile? Well, I can say that highly figured walnut doesn’t increase or decrease accuracy or velocity, but it sure is pretty to look at and seems to age like a fine wine. That said, I have synthetic-stocked rifles with which I have shared some indelible memories.

Author-Zimbabwe-Gewehr-98-318-Westley-Richards — Memories can be made with all sorts of rifles; the author took this Zimbabwean kudu bull with a custom rifle based on a 1916 Mauser Gewehr 98 action, re-barreled to the obscure .318 Westley Richards and done on a budget. Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.

Hunting Rifle Must-Haves And No-Ways

There are features in a rifle I’m completely willing to pay for or avoid if they aren’t designed properly. One pet peeve of mine is feeding. If a rifle doesn’t feed properly—and you’d be surprised how many don’t feed the way they should—it’s a complete source of frustration.

One of the most appreciable features of the Heym Express by Martini is the way the rifle feeds. Now, the .404 Jeffery has a reputation for feeding well to begin with, but the folks at Heym are extremely particular about the way their rifles feed, to the point where each cartridge has its own unique magazine geometry.

Where some companies will use one magazine design for the full-length belted magnums such as the .300 Weatherby, .375 Holland & Holland, .416 Remington Magnum and .458 Lott, Heym creates a unique magazine design for each cartridge they offer in the Express. This is a very important feature for me, as my Heym .404 Jeffery is a dangerous game rifle, and a feeding issue could cost a life.

Heym-Express-Martini-Hunting-Rifle — With a bespoke controlled-round feed action, a magazine unique to each particular cartridge and a classy stock designed by famed gunsmith Ralf Martini, the Heym Express by Martini is one of the best buys on the market right now. Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.

Inexpensive polymer magazines are another feature I tend to avoid. I understand the ease of manufacture and affordability aspects, but when those little tabs break off, rendering the magazine useless, the savings up front tend to go out the window. Give me a good old-fashioned hinged floorplate like the Winchester 70 had. Perhaps it’s more expensive to manufacture, but I’ll pay that price happily.

And while we’re at it, I really like those manufacturers who take the time to ensure that their magazine followers will operate flawlessly. I remember when Mark Bansner was adjusting the stock length of my Bansner & Co. .404 Jeffery. He was fiddling with the magazine follower when he looked at me and said, “This isn’t quite right; give me a couple minutes to sort this out.” The rifle fed well to begin with, but after Bansner’s tweaks, it feeds like grease. Bottom line: Cheap rifles don’t always feed well, and I can’t deal with that.

Heym-Model-98B-470-Nitro-Express — The author’s Heym Model 89B in .470 Nitro Express is perfect Cape buffalo medicine and represents a classic hunting experience. Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.

Personal Preferences

Among hunting rifles, the bolt-action undoubtedly reigns supreme, in spite of the fact that the controlled-round feed (CRF) versus push-feed rages on to this day. I’m firmly planted in the CRF camp, though I do cross party lines and enjoy the use of several push-feed model rifles.

My Tikka T3X Lite 7mm-08 Remington, Browning X-Bolt 6.8 Western and Winchester Model 70 XTR Sporter all feed and extract reliably, and together we’ve made a ton of great memories around the world. However, when the game animal has teeth, claws or horns that can end a hunter’s life, I much prefer the security of controlled-round feed.

Stock design is another feature where I’m not comfortable compromising. Looking at some of the more “affordable” expensive rifles—meaning we aren’t talking about custom guns in the $30,000 to $50,000 range—the stock designs and options are next level in comparison to the majority of off-the-shelf rifles.

Heym-Double-Barrel-chambers — Every hunting rifle is capable of creating memories, whether it cost $400 … or $10,000. Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.

American rifles seem to be married to the 13¾-inch length of pull; just like all blue jeans shouldn’t have a 34-inch waist and 30-inch inseam, our rifle stocks really shouldn’t be one-size-fits-all. Unless I’m planning on wearing a very heavy hunting coat, my length of pull runs between 14¼ and 14½ inches. I can compensate for it, but the longer stocks feel much nicer.

I appreciate the adjustable stocks on rifles like the Savage models, which have the AccuStock, and the small details in rifles like the Tikka T3X and Browning X-Bolt, which add a palm-swell to the pistol grip. But, once you’ve had the experience, there’s nothing like a stock made for your frame. Heym made my 89B double rifle to my dimensions, and Mark Bansner set that .404 Jeffery up to fit like a glove, proving that even a synthetic stock can make a hunter smile.

Some of the more affordable rifles will make a single stock design, which can handle the heaviest cartridge they load for and put that same stock on the entire product line; the Czechoslovakian CZ550 comes quickly to mind in that respect. But looking at the sales numbers of the CZ550, and how many hunters have embraced its blend of affordability and reliability, there’s quite obviously something to that formula.

I also like a rifle to balance properly; when it comes to the shoulder as if it were part of a dance routine, to the point where you don’t even think about it, it’s a wonderful thing. Few entry-level rifles take balance into consideration—or so it seems—or at least they don’t pay nearly as much attention as the smaller shops, and perhaps that’s reflected in the price point.

Rigby-Highland-Stalker-Hunting-Rifle-1 — Rigby’s Highland Stalker isn’t a cheap rifle, but has such clean lines and impressive performance that it’ll easily become an heirloom. Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.

Handling the Rigby Highland Stalker—which carries a price tag at or near the $10,000 mark—you’ll immediately notice how the rifle balances properly, with a stock design that feels immediately comfortable.

So, I vote yes: An expensive rifle can and will be a game changer in your hunting career, while still being a great value in the end. I hope all of you can have the opportunity to own one heirloom rifle worthy of handing down when your days afield are over.

Heym-89B-Double-Barrel-Hunting-Rifle — Photo credit: Massaro Media Group.

Gunsmiths like Ralf Martini, Todd Ramirez, Mark Bansner and an untold horde of talented individuals who are fully capable of creating functional art in the form of a rifle are more than willing to make your dreams come true, with your checkbook balance being the limiting factor.

Head to the big shows—like the Dallas Safari Club convention each January—and take the time to meet and talk with the companies that produce these great hunting rifles; you’ll be glad you did.

Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the December 2021 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

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Best .50 Beowulf Uppers: A Buyer’s Guide

By

Sam Hoober

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August 16, 2022

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Want to build a .50 Beowulf AR or convert one you already own? You’ll need a .50 Beowulf upper. Here are some of the best on the market.

As discussed in our first .50 Beowulf article, one of the appeals of this cartridge is its compatibility with standard AR-15 lowers. When all it takes to convert an existing 5.56 NATO AR into a big-bore thumper is a .50 Beowulf upper, a new bolt and maybe a new magazine, it gives plenty of incentive to take the plunge.

Whether you’re looking to convert an AR you already own or build a whole new gun from scratch, we’ll go over what you need to know to pick the right parts to build or buy a .50 Beowulf upper.

50-Beowulf-Upper-Feature-Alexander-Arms — Alexander Arms' SBR .50 Beowulf upper.

What To Keep In Mind When Picking Or Building A .50 Beowulf Upper

The first thing to keep in mind when shopping for an upper—or piecing one together to assemble yourself—is what you're going to use the finished firearm for.

Is this a hunting gun? Is it for defense? Will it be a rifle, a carbine or a pistol?

If you have a serious purpose in mind, what you don't want to do is take chances on budget parts, a budget upper or on your skill as a builder–unless you're already well experienced. For most shooters who have serious work in mind for their big-bore AR, a quality .50 Beowulf upper that’s been preassembled by a reputable manufacturer will be the best bet.

Alexander-Arms-Highlander-Pistol — A complete .50 Beowulf pistol from Alexander Arms.

You should also consider where you source your parts from. Because Alexander Arms is the inventor of the cartridge, it is considered the go-to for all .50 Beowulf guns, parts and ammo. This isn’t to say that other companies don’t make fine products as well, but it’s hard to shake the sense that the original manufacturer will have the most experience when it comes to making the best possible parts.

.50 Beowulf Upper: Build Or Buy?

When deliberating between building or buying any AR upper, it comes down to customization and cost savings versus quality assurance. It's just as true for .50 Beowulf uppers as it is for standard 5.56 NATO.

The choice is obviously yours, but if you intend to use your ‘Wulf in any setting where a malfunction would be more than a minor inconvenience, paying a bit more for a factory-assembled upper is probably the safer option.

Whether you’re a bear hunter trying to put meat on the table or a SWAT officer in need of a reliable breaching gun, it would be smart to buy premade and to buy quality.

All the parts laid out before the project begins. The author chose proven and functional components, and he spent money where he felt it was most important.

Most prospective .50 Beo buyers don’t fall into one of those categories, however. So if you’re looking to build one for more casual reasons then piecing your own stripped upper together from parts can save you money and enable more creative freedom.

Pitfalls Of .50 Beowulf Uppers For The 5.56 Builder

Because the AR market is so dominated by 5.56x45mm components, there are a few important differences to keep in mind when dealing with .50 Beowulf parts compatibility.

.50 Beowulf BCGs And Bolts

The .50 Beowulf is something of a hybrid cartridge, as the case starts its life as .50 AE brass that's trimmed back and has its rim rebated to roughly the same diameter as 6.5mm Grendel.

The OEM bolt carrier group is a 6.5mm Grendel bolt with a .50 Beowulf bolt head. Since the rim is rebated to 6.5mm in diameter but a different thickness, you need a .50 Beowulf bolt. At a minimum, you might get away with a .50 Beowulf extractor on a 6.5mm Grendel bolt, but getting the purpose-built .50 Beowulf bolt itself is a good idea.

The extractor is a critical element to the proper functioning of the AR’s gas impingement system. Its function is to grab the base of the cartridge casing and mechanically escort it into and out of the AR’s action during the firing sequence. — The extractor is a critical element to the proper functioning of the AR’s gas impingement system. Its function is to grab the base of the cartridge casing and mechanically escort it into and out of the AR’s action during the firing sequence, so it must be the proper size for the cartridge it's extracting.

Some owners report cycling issues when using bolts and carrier groups not made by Alexander Arms (differentiated by being labeled 12.7x42mm rather than .50 Beowulf to avoid infringement), especially those based on 7.62mm AR BCGs.

Of these owners, a number have reported fixing the issue by replacing their bolt and/or BCG with an Alexander Arms-branded one. With a cartridge this unique and proprietary, it, unfortunately, seems buying OEM parts may be the best route to ensure reliability.

.50 Beowulf Handguards

When building a .50 Beowulf upper from scratch or modifying an existing one, handguards must be selected carefully. While many standard AR-15 handguards will work, many others will not as the interior diameter is too narrow to slide over the barrel and the gas tube. Before buying, make sure the model you’re considering has enough clearance for the thicker parts.

.50 Beowulf Magazines

Another common issue experienced with .50 Beowulf guns pertains to their magazines, but that is true of all semi-automatic firearms to a degree. Make sure you get quality magazines and vet them with your rifle and ammunition. If a manufacturer recommends a particular magazine, stick to it.

Alexander-Arms-50-Beowulf-Magazine-10-rd — An Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf 10-round magazine.

.50 Beowulf Barrels

More companies than you might expect manufacture barrels for .50 Beowulf (or 12.7x42mm), so there are options out there.

Most .50 Beowulf barrels have a 1:19 or a 1:20 twist rate, and 16 inches is the most common length. It should be noted that shorter and longer barrels exist as well. Stainless and chrome-moly steel are both available, as well as different barrel contours, optional fluting and even integral muzzle brakes.

The usual gas journal diameter is 0.875″ (there are some larger) and adjustable gas blocks are available from a number of manufacturers. Note, some barrel makers offer them as an upgrade with your order. It's worth thinking about the upgrade, especially if you're going to add a suppressor.

Fluting and other weight-reducing additions (or rather subtractions!) are available from some manufacturers, and this would be a good option to consider if you carry your carbine in the field.

When choosing a barrel material, keep in mind that even match-quality stainless steel barrels have a shorter service life before accuracy diminishes. The lower-cost 416R barrels wear even faster. A chrome-moly-vanadium (CMV barrel) with a nitride finish will retain accuracy the longest.

Other .50 Beowulf Parts

Aside from those components, the upper receiver itself remains the same, the dust cover is unchanged and all the lower receiver parts are the same spec as for 5.56 NATO builds. It is, however, recommended that you use a heavier buffer (H2 or H3) and a quality buffer spring (such as Springco Blue or Red springs) to improve reliability, as well as a good pad on the stock to help tame recoil.

Alexander-Arms-50-Beowulf-Pepper-Pot-Muzzle-Brake — A .50 Beowulf Pepper Pot muzzle brake from Alexander Arms.

The final consideration is the muzzle brake, which obviously must be large enough to accommodate the large-bore .50 Beowulf projectile and have a thread pitch compatible with your gun.

The 5 Best .50 Beowulf Uppers

Alexander Arms 16-Inch DIY Kit

Alexander Arms, the original creator of the cartridge, has several .50 Beowulf uppers for sale that can be mated with one of the company’s own lower receivers or any standard AR lower.

The 16-inch DIY kit includes a 16-inch barrel, a gas block, a gas tube, a BCG, a charging handle and a forward assist as well as a flat-top upper receiver, along with some other small parts. All you need to complete this kit is an assembled lower and a handguard of your choice.

A 12-inch DIY kit is available as well, in case you prefer a pistol version or perhaps an SBR with the appropriate tax stamp.

Upgrade options available include the ability to add a Radian ambidextrous charging handle, a muzzle brake and a free Alexander Arms hat.

MSRP: $850 // alexanderarms.com

Atheris A15-M 12.7x42mm Upper

Atheris has AR-platform rifles for sale in multiple calibers, including 12.7x42mm which is—of course—the generic equivalent of .50 Beowulf since Alexander Arms still holds the patent.

Atheris offers multiple barrel lengths, including 7.5-, 10.5-, 16- and 18-inch barrels. You can also choose to add a three-port muzzle brake (a good idea for this cartridge) as well as a Cerakote finish on the barrel, upper or both.

The Atheris upper includes a 416R stainless steel barrel, a nitrided Atheris BCG, a nitrided gas block, an ambidextrous charging handle, an Atheris M-LOK handguard and a flat-top receiver with a Strike Industries dust cover.

MSRP: Starts At $649.99 // atherisrifle.com

Pro 2A Tactical AR-15 12.7x42mm Uppers

Pro 2A Tactical offers three different uppers for 12.7x42mm, in 10.5-inch, 16-inch and 18-inch barrel lengths.

Flat-top upper receivers and M-LOK handguards by Bowden Tactical are standard, along with a CMV barrel with a heavy profile, 1:20 twist, low-profile gas block and a three-port muzzle brake.

The base uppers are flat black and come with no charging handle or bolt carrier group, but when ordering there are options for adding an FDE Cerakote finish as well as a mil-spec charging handle and BCG.

MSRP: Starts At $399.99 // pro2a-tactical.com

MMC Armory 12.7x42mm Build Kits

MMC Armory offers multiple build kits for 12.7x42mm, including 10.5-, 16- and 18-inch barrel kits, with different handguards and muzzle devices for each respective barrel length.

All MMC Armory build kits feature either an Aero Precision or Davidson Defense upper receiver, a CMV barrel, a low-profile gas block and M-LOK handguards. The exact barrel and make/model/length of handguard depend on which build package you choose.

You can order the kit unassembled for the base price, assembled for an additional $19 or assembled and test-fired for an additional $49.99. One can also add a Swampfox red dot for an additional $130. To complete one of these kits, all you’ll need is an assembled lower receiver, a bolt carrier group and a charging handle.

MSRP: Starts At ~$300 // mmcarmory.com

Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf AWS Upper

The top of the Alexander Arms range in terms of uppers is the AWS (Advanced Weapon System) upper, which features a 16-inch barrel, Midwest Industries M-LOK handguard and a Radian Arms Raptor charging handle.

You also have the option—as with all Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf rifles, pistols and uppers—to add your choice of muzzle device (Tank brake, Millennium compensator, or Pepper Pot brake) and whether or not you would like a complimentary Alexander Arms hat.

This is the most expensive .50 Beowulf upper on this list, but it is the OEM for the caliber. If you wanted a fighting or working carbine-length gun that's ready to go out of the box…this would be a top choice.

MSRP: $1,155.95 // alexanderarms.com

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Luth-AR Releases Sidekick Balance Weight

By

Adam Borisenko

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August 15, 2022

0

Luth-AR has just released the Sidekick Balance Weight for MBA-1 and MBA-2 rifle stocks.

The MBA-1 and MBA-2 from Luth-AR are two very popular choices for aftermarket precision AR stocks. Besides providing a height-adjustable cheek riser, the MBA-1 also features length of pull adjustability and attachment points for QD sling cups and an accessory rail. The MBA-2 has essentially the same features but an even greater degree of modularity. One more accessory option has just been added to the lineup, however, and that’s the Luth-AR Sidekick Balance Weight.

The Sidekick Balance Weight attaches to any MBA-1 or MBA-2 buttstock via three included bolts, so assembly is quick and easy. Once installed, the weight adds 14.5 ounces (0.91 pounds) to the buttstock. While this isn’t an accessory that everyone could benefit from, for certain precision shooters it could be very useful. Whether looking to mitigate the recoil of a bench rifle or improve the balance of a front-heavy build, the Sidekick Balance Weight is an easy and inexpensive way to accomplish it for those who use Luth-AR MBA-1 or MBA-2 buttstocks.

It makes sense that these are the stock systems that the weight was first developed for, as they are the two models compatible with A2-length buffer tubes and are what would most commonly be found on precision rifle builds. The Luth-AR MBA-3, -4 and -5 stocks may be designed for carbines, but the eventual release of a weight system that is compatible with some or all of those models would not be unwelcomed.

The Sidekick Balance Weight is made in America, constructed of carbon steel with a manganese phosphate finish and has an MSRP of $69.95. It's available now.

For more information, please visit luth-ar.com.

Get On Target With The AR:

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First Look: Anderson Manufacturing AM-15 Precision Series

By

Adam Borisenko

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August 12, 2022

0

Anderson Manufacturing has just announced the AM-15 Precision Series, featuring four new rifle models designed to provide precision at an affordable price.

Anderson Manufacturing’s AM-15 AR-style rifles have a solid reputation among affordable AR-15s, and the company has just announced the line’s expansion with the AM-15 Precision Series. Featuring four new rifle models, the Precision Series was designed to provide shooters with affordable yet accurate AR-15 options.

Each of the four new AM-15 Precision rifles will feature a Schmid Tool two-stage trigger and a Magpul PRS Lite stock. The trigger has a crisp 4.5-pound pull with a short reset and the stock is adjustable for comb height and length of pull. The stock is also ambidextrous, includes QD sling mount points and has an adjustable rubber butt-pad. All AM-15 Precision Series models are also chambered for 5.56x45mm NATO, but most other major features differ between the variants.

AM-15-Precision-Marksman — AM-15 Marksman.

The first model in the AM-15 Precision Series lineup is the Marksman, and it features an 18-inch taper-profile barrel, a 15-inch M-LOK handguard and a Night Stalker flash hider. It also includes a Magpul K2 grip and 20-round PMAG. MSRP is $899.99.

The AM-15 Precision Sharpshooter, as the name implies, is more geared toward long-range shooting. The only discernable difference between this model and the Marksman is that the Sharpshooter includes a 20-inch taper-profile barrel to provide extra velocity for increased accuracy at range. MSRP is also $899.99.

The AM-15 Precision Varminter also includes a 20-inch barrel, but it’s a bull barrel profile instead to allow for a greater volume of fire before noticeable impact shift occurs. As its name suggests, this is a great feature for varmint hunters who may have shot opportunities arise while their barrel is still hot from previous engagements. Other distinct features on the Varminter were chosen for their increased ergonomics, including a Hogue overmolded rubber beavertail grip and a round tube handguard rather than an angled one. The handguard still features M-LOK slots and is made out of the same lightweight T6 aluminum as the other models, however. A Magpul 20-round mag is also included and the MSRP is $949.99.

The final AM-15 Precision Series rifle is the Competitor, and it has the most unique features of the whole lineup. Designed for competition use, the Competitor features the same 18-inch taper-profile barrel as the Marksman, but it also includes an adjustable Anderson gas block, a low-mass Anderson bolt carrier group and Anderson’s Stallion muzzle brake to mitigate recoil. Otherwise, it features the same rubber Hogue grip as the Varminter and the same 15-inch M-LOK handguard as the Sharpshooter and the Marksman. The Competitor also has an ambidextrous selector and comes with a 30-round STANAG magazine. MSRP is $919.99.

For more information, please visit andersonmanufacturing.com.

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Give Me Liberty: SOLGW M4-76 Review

By

Patrick Roberts

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August 11, 2022

0

A look at the SOLGW M4-76 AR-15 and the company that makes it, Sons of Liberty Gun Works.

Like it or not, not all AR-15s are created equal.

Some rifle manufacturers are content with putting out guns that are just good enough to have the misleading “mil-spec” marketing label slapped on them. Consumers sometimes read that as some mark of quality, but the truth is that the mil-spec claim is nothing more than a flashy way of saying, “This might work with other mil-spec things.”

The reality is, few manufacturers build their M4-like carbines to a standard even remotely close to the actual military specification for the M4A1, MIL-DTL-71186B. Fewer still will take the rifle to the next level of hard-use performance.

The boys at Sons of Liberty Gun Works (SOLGW) make that list. As much as I want to gush about my personal M4-76 rifle, the story of how the Sons came to be is equally as impressive.

Humble Origins

Sons of Liberty Gun Works is the American dream. Let’s be real about it: If you reduce the company’s start to a Netflix show description, it sounds too ridiculous to be a true story.

“With only $7,000 in his pocket after selling his car, Mike partnered up with a friend in the basement of a lumber yard to take on the biggest AR-15 manufacturers in the world. His quest? To become the best rifle company. Either they sell the whole batch of 10 rifles, or it will be game over.”

Pure insanity, but it’s the truth.

Like any good story, there’s a moment that speaks to our hero and motivates them to do something epic; in this case, it was an armorer’s course taught by the late Will Larson of Semper Paratus Arms. Mike Mihalski borrowed a friend’s AR-15, enrolled in the two-day course and learned far more than he could’ve imagined. I say this with some authority, because I also took Larson’s armorer course with a borrowed rifle and can attest to it being an eye-opening experience.

Sons-Of-Liberty-Gun-Works-M4-76-top — The 13-inch M76 handguard is perfect for the 13.7-inch barrel and NOX muzzle device combo.

Mike saw the AR-15 in a new light and decided he wanted to get into the gun business. His dream of starting a gun company—building the best AR-15s he possibly could—started floating around in his head. Talking more about it with his best friend, a Navy SEAL, he eventually was introduced to Kyle Grothues; the trio had big dreams about taking on the big names in the AR industry. Mike sold his car, netting him $7,000, and Kyle brought a little more cash to the table and some space in the family-owned lumber company his great-grandfather founded in 1933.

With limited funds and no standing purchase orders, the boys had some serious work ahead of them. The limited funds were a pretty significant hurdle initially, especially since most of the suppliers of components that Mike felt acceptable enough to put in a rifle he was building had order minimums in the hundreds. The Sons only had the cash for 10 guns worth of parts. Rather than let his standards slip, Mike hounded suppliers and willed those first 10 rifles into existence.

SOLGW-M4-76-angle-rear — Common sense upgrades to the time- proven M4 design, like making the takedown pin lugs a bit wider than TDP standards, create an incredibly smooth-firing rifle.

Some of the first 10 went to friends of Mike and Kyle, and the remaining rifles found a home with some men who know what a hard-use rifle needs to be: The Navy SEALs and Marines who bought one of the Sons’ first rifles spread the good word. It didn’t take long for other guys looking for a no-nonsense duty rifle to reach out to Sons of Liberty; the endorsement of Navy SEALs and Marines can be a powerful marketing tool.

Orders for more guns came rolling in.

Making Their Mark

You might be wondering what’s so damned special about some dudes in a lumberyard with an FFL and a few AR-15 parts. The Sons saw a gap in the market for hard-use rifles suitable for defensive or duty use that could be customized. Until now, if you wanted a hard-use rifle, the most ideal move was to buy something like a Colt 6920 and replace half the rifle to get it to where you wanted. The Sons’ crazy idea was to offer the same quality as Colt, but with the addition of allowing the end-user to configure their rifle how they wanted direct from the manufacturer.

Through continued research, daily conversations with Will Larson and their rifle rebuild program, Mike gathered data on what worked well and what didn’t. Eventually, Sons of Liberty Gun Works took what they learned and started developing parts of their very own, with the goal of building the best damn rifle in America.

At the core of their success is the quality control that goes into each and every rifle. It isn’t just grabbing parts from a bin and slapping a rifle together; each part is inspected multiple times to ensure it’s within acceptable specs. If the part isn’t up to their high standards, it isn’t used.

Their commitment to quality goes beyond just measuring parts. More durable anodizing, slightly tweaked upper receiver dimensions to remove the wobble found on almost every AR-15, and ensuring their components are made of the best materials for that particular use, take the SOLGW rifles and components to the next level.

Once you have top-tier components, the only thing holding a rifle back from being the best it possibly can be is how those parts are assembled—you can’t just slap a rifle together at your kitchen table and expect world-class performance. I was given a chance to visit the SOLGW factory, and I can’t overstate the meticulous care given to each and every stage of the build process.

Everyone knew proper torque values at the snap of a finger—and why each one was important. The tools they were using weren’t the cheapest thing they could get, and every rifle went together with the same level of attention. I was especially fascinated with their endplate staking. Mike and I see eye to eye on the importance of staking, but he took it a bit further and incorporated Forward Controls Design castle nuts that allow three places to stake rather than the two required to meet MIL-STD-DTL-71186B.

The SOLGW M4-76

If, for some reason, I had to choose only one rifle to be my companion in some real-life version of I Am Legend, there’s only one choice: a 13.7-inch-barreled Sons of Liberty Gun Works M4-76 with their nine-position A5 buffer tube paired with a VLTOR A5 Buffer and their NOX muzzle device pinned and welded to bring it to non-NFA length. For a pure fighting rifle, I struggle to think of a more versatile option.

M4-76-Muzzle — The Sons of Liberty Gun Works NOX is more than a cool flash hider; it also accepts Dead Air KeyMo-equipped suppressors.

As you unbox your rifle, you’re met with a soft-side rifle case inside the cardboard box rather than a bunch of foam, which is fantastic for those who don’t have several rifle bags or cases already. On the outside of that soft case are three stainless steel magazines in the mag pouches, complete with SOLGW-marked floorplates and a small baggie containing a single fired case, a small bottle of lube and a Sons of Liberty Gun Works patch.

Nestled inside your soft case is the rifle. Remove the case from the box and you’ll find a lifetime warranty certificate signed by four people: the armorer who built your gun, the person who inspected the finished product and test-fired it, and the two owners of the company—stating that if you don’t start “fixing” your rifle by swapping parts around, they’ll fix the gun for life regardless of round count. Yes, that includes gas rings, barrel, bolt carrier group and springs.

SOLGW-M4-76-left — The rifle was configured with the Sig Tango6T 1-6 power scope for the majority of the testing and performed beautifully.

I installed a SIG Sauer Tango6T 1-6x24mm scope in an old Warne mount that wasn’t doing anything in my gun room. The only other accessories I added were a Modlite OKW paired with a ModButton Lite and an Arisaka inline mount, and a Blue Force Gear Vickers sling.

During the zero process, the first several rounds I sent downrange surprised me. There was near no recoil. We can thank SOLGW for taking gas port size seriously and not building rifles to run on any random ammunition you can find. Will it run the cheap stuff? Probably. I was elated that it wasn’t heavily over-gassed like many commercial rifles.

But recoil mitigation isn’t just about gas-port sizing: The mid-length gas system, highly efficient NOX muzzle device, a SpringCo green buffer spring, nine-position A5 buffer tube and VLTOR A5-H2 buffer all play a role in keeping the rifle on target during fast strings of fire. All my shooting was faster-paced drills at 25 yards, and I haven’t seen a single malfunction.

The rifle is reasonably light, shoots soft and flat, is more than accurate at the defensive distances the average citizen would likely see if they were unfortunate enough to need to use a firearm in defense of their life, and it handles like a dream thanks to that 13.7-inch barrel with the pinned and welded NOX flash hider. Overall, this is the best AR-15 carbine I’ve had the pleasure to shoot to date.

They Do God’s Work

There just isn’t enough room here to talk about all the 2nd Amendment advocacy work Mike, Kyle and the Sons of Liberty Gun Works crew do. Never mind the massive amount of support they give law enforcement, their involvement in politics at all levels, support for gun-loving Americans or the Sons of Liberty Gun Works Carbine Series competition. They’re some of the most active and amazing people in the firearms industry.

Sons-Of-Liberty-Gun-Works-M4-76-rear — Topping the 13.7-inch M4-76 with a LPVO creates the ability to make precise shots out past 500 yards without much trouble.

As for my experience with the M4-76 rifle, I fully intend on purchasing a second and possibly third copy of the very same rifle for my son’s first AR-15 and maybe one for the wife … maybe.

Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the June 2021 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

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Carry Light, Carry Right: Concealed Carry Tips

By

Richard A. Mann

-

August 10, 2022

2

Some tips on gear selection and methodology for a more comfortable concealed carry experience.

One serious consideration regarding holster selection is how easy the holster is to put on or take off. To the novice concealed carrier, this might not seem important, but it won’t be long until you realize there are times you need to take your gun off for a short time, and having to undo your belt to make that happen isn’t ideal.

Carry-Light-Carry-Right-Galco-IWB-Holster — The Galco Royal Guard is a very well-constructed IWB holster that can easily be removed or put on with the two external snap straps.

I’ve been working with a Glock 43 a bit, and two holsters I’ve been using make this process seamless. The first is the Galco Royal Guard, an inside the waistband (IWB) holster. The two exterior straps are easy to undo, and the holster can simply be pulled out of the pants. It’s just as easy to put back on as well—and you never have to unfasten your belt. Well … you might need to tighten or loosen it for comfort.

The other is the Galco paddle holster. Paddle holsters sandwich the belt and pants between the holster and a paddle that fits on the inside of the pants. They’re incredibly comfortable—maybe the most comfortable way to carry OWB of any holster. A hook on the paddle helps hold the holster in place and keeps it from slipping out of your pants. It takes both hands to put this holster on or take it off, but you can do so without undoing your belt, and you won’t have to readjust your belt with or without the holster.

Concealed-Carry-Tips-feature — A high-quality paddle holster, such as this Galco Speed Paddle, might be the easiest to put on or take off. It may not be the holster you wear the most, but it should probably be one of the holsters you have on hand.

Multiple holsters are something to consider when it comes to concealed carry. In the summer, when you’re not wearing a long cover garment, a holster like the Royal Guard that can be concealed by an untucked shirt makes good sense. In colder months, when you’re wearing a jacket, a paddle holster positions the gun just under the jacket for easy access. I always keep an IWB and an OWB holster for the gun I’m carrying in my truck, so that I can adjust my carry method for the situation and the weather.

CCW Clothing

I’ve mentioned the Barranti Leather Swift Cover Vest here before, but I think it, along with some thoughts about clothing for concealed carry, deserve revisiting. Most of the discussions about concealed carry revolve around the holster and carry location; what we often neglect is that it’s the clothing you wear that actually conceals the handgun.

CCW-Vest-Dog — A lightweight vest, like the Barranti Swift Cover Vest, that’ll conceal your handgun during normal activities without restricting your movements or being too warm for indoor wear, is a good and stylish idea.

Jackets are a great way to hide a handgun regardless of where you carry it, but what happens when you get to where you’re going and have to remove your jacket? A vest—one that’s not heavy or too hot to wear—is a great solution.

That Barranti Swift Cover Vest is constructed of sturdy, lightweight canvas and is available in two colors: nutmeg or stone. Designed by a man who makes holsters—some of the best holsters in the world—for a living, it’s cut at just the right length to hide a handgun carried IWB and even OWB, depending on the holster and size of the gun. It also has small weights perfectly positioned to keep the vest in place and help with sweeping it out of the way when you’re drawing your gun. And, just as importantly, this vest looks pretty damned classy. It retails for $125 and is available with or without a lapel.

Barranti-Leather-Swift-Concealed-Carry-Vest — Drawing from underneath the Swift Cover Vest. Photo: barrantileather.com.

The point of mentioning this vest is twofold. For starters, if it’s something that fits your lifestyle (and likely your taste), I’d suggest ordering one. Secondly, all of this should make you think about the clothing you wear when you’re carrying concealed. Pay attention to how long a coat or vest you might be considering is when you purchase it. Think about its material. Is it something that’ll hang up on your gun when you’re attempting to draw? Is it of a material that’ll stand up to the constant contact and rubbing of the grip of your handgun?

A comfortable holster is a damned important consideration for the concealed carrier. But the clothing you wear to hide your gun is just as important. Coats do a great job of hiding guns in cold weather, but what’ll you wear in the spring and summer? None of us want to dress like a tactard; we want to fit in and appear, well, normal.

Extra Ammunition

Another thing to consider when carrying concealed is if you’re going to carry extra ammunition … and where. There are lots of magazine and speed loader pouches on the market, and most will carry them on their offside. But you’ll need to conceal your reload, too.

I wore a duty belt for 13 years, and it provided me with a means to carry all of my essential gear. I don’t do that anymore; now I work to find the best balance of comfort and security. Sometimes I’ll wear a pouch on my belt, but most often the reload goes in the pocket of my cover garment. This is another reason a lightweight vest makes sense.

Of course, you can get down a rabbit hole really quick here. Some will argue that, in addition to a reload, you need to carry a second reload, a second gun, a reload for the second gun, a less than lethal option (like pepper spray) and maybe even an impact weapon as well. In addition to that, they’ll suggest a pocketknife and a fighting knife. And let’s not forget, you’ll have a cell phone and a wallet that goes with you everywhere, every day, as well.

Somewhere within all this security, you must find some comfort and common sense. But maybe that’s best left as a topic for another time.

Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the 2021 CCW special issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

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