Best Chest Rig: Choosing The Right Rig For Your Mission

The Ruger M77 MkII International is a beautiful bolt-action rifle where history and performance intersect.

I’ve always had a soft spot for the Mannlicher stock on a rifle. Like the 1963 Corvette Stingray, redheads and chemistry, I just had to. Well, the problem with the Mannlicher stock was…Mannlicher. The receiver design put me off with the split rear bridge. The butter-knife bolt handle was a hot mess. And all the non-euro Mannlicher-stocked rifles were either too expensive, not as elegant—or both.

Then, Ruger came out with their M77 MkII in .275 Rigby. Actually, Lipsey’s did, as a special run just for them in .275 Rigby and marked as such. Now, the Ruger M77 in the MkII has been around since 1991. The original M77 came about back in the late 1960s, a product of Jim Sullivan, the AR-15 designer. The MkII changes made the original M77 more like the 1898 Mauser, with a controlled-feed action and a blade ejector but kept the anvil-tough Ruger design details. Then, in 2006, the MkII was updated to the Hawkeye, and now it was perfect with the lighter and cleaner LC6 trigger.

Ruger M77 MKII Intl Feature — The Ruger International in .275 Rigby. A must-have from the early days of gun-acquisition, and one now satisfied.

The moment I saw the International Rigby Hawkeye, I was hooked. That it was chambered in .275 meant I told the Ruger rep, “Send me one now.” When I found out that Hornady was offering ammunition headstamped “.275 Rigby,” I asked Hornady to send me ammo and told Ruger to bill me; they weren’t getting the rifle back after testing.

Rigby Headstamps — Hornady makes ammunition for the Ruger (and any others) that’s headstamped .275 Rugby.

By Any Other Name?

The 275 (I can’t call it “The Rigby,” because that’s what you’d call one made in England by Rigby) is a wood-stocked full length to the muzzle rifle in stainless steel. The nose cap is also stainless, and the rifle, actually a carbine with an 18.5-inch barrel, comes with iron sights installed. That’s a rarity these days, with every rifle getting a set of rings and a scope before it ever leaves the gun shop.

Ruger MKII M77 Iron Sights — When I saw the caliber marking on the barrel, I was hooked. I had to have it, breaking one of the cardinal rules of gun writing.

Oh, the 275 comes with rings, the most-excellent Ruger clamp-on rings, where the receiver is machined to accept them. The action is, as all Ruger bolt guns have been since the beginning, made with the Ruger angled front-action screw. Back in the days when all stocks were wood stocks, this was a great advance. Instead of depending on precision wood inletting to bed the stock, the Ruger action screw, pointing down and to the back, pulls the action down into and back against the stocks recoil shoulder. Today, with precision machining, glass bedding and (anathema here) synthetic stocks, such a thing isn’t needed. But it’s good, and on a wood stock, it’s really good.

Ruger M77 Scope — A light and compact rifle deserves a light and compact scope, hence this old but valued Leupold 1.5-5x.

And, the back of the stock has one of the Ruger solid red rubber recoil pads. On something more robust than a .275 Rigby I might want a recoil pad that’s thicker or softer or both, but for this it’s just fine.

The Hawkeye Factor

The Hawkeye is your basic bolt-action rifle, but Ruger makes pretty much all of it better. The magazine is an internal magazine with a hinged floorplate that holds four rounds. The safety has three positions, so you can lock the action closed, unlock it to extract the chambered round but leave it on “safe,” or move it to “fire” to shoot.

Ruger M77 Floorplate — The front action screw is angled and hidden inside of the hinged floorplate.

At 7 pounds empty, the Rigby (oops, I did it there) handles quickly and isn’t a problem to carry all day long. Even if you add a scope on top and load it up, you’d be hard-pressed to get the weight much over 8 pounds, and that’s just not a lot of weight to be carrying.

The cartridge is, as I mentioned, a bonus. Those of you who might not be up to date on your African hunting cartridges and British makers marks will know it by a more familiar name: 7×57 Mauser. Yes, that Mauser.

Ruger Intl Safety — The safety is a rotating tab that has three positions: locked, safe to work the action, and fire.

Wait, what? It’s a 7-mill? The 7-mill? Yep. Rigby was a custom gunmaker, and if at all possible, he wanted his customers to be satisfied with his products. And to buy his products. So, by making the 7×57 under a proprietary name, he could get them onboard with his product line.

There was also another reason: quality. Even back then, ammo was expensive, and you had to depend on the name of the company providing it. If you bought “7×57” ammo some place, it probably would work, but would it be good enough? If you bought “.275 Rigby” ammunition for your Rigby rifle chambered in .275, you knew it’d work. A hunter buying ammunition in a store in Nairobi a century ago could be certain that if the boxes and cases were marked “.275 Rigby” he was getting exactly what he was looking for.

Today, we take for granted that if it’s made by an ammo company we recognize, it’ll work to our satisfaction. A century ago, not so much. And who wants to find out the hard way, a week’s walk from the store amidst angry critters ready to bite, claw or stomp you?

Now, the stock design does come with some, shall we say, peculiarities. While the rear sling swivel mounting spot is your basic stud screwed into the stock, ready for a QD sling swivel, the front sling point isn’t. There, the customary sling swivel hardware is a steel loop that has its pivot points on the sides of the forearm. If you want a sling, you have to accommodate that setup, because you won’t have a regular sling stub up front. That front sling point is forward of the checkering on the forearm, which checkering matches that on the wrist and pistol grip. The forearm is very slim; if you have large hands, you’ll find your fingers wrapping up onto the barrel. Not a problem, but it just feels a bit odd at first.

In the modern world of 30mm scopes, the .275 Rigby came with 1-inch rings. You can get 30mm rings, but in keeping with the light and compact lines of the rifle, I opted to dig an old but trusty Leupold out of the optics locker: a 1.5-5x. Overall, 5x is plenty good enough for me out to 300 yards, which is as far as I’d be willing to tag a game animal.

Bang Testing

So, with a scope on the Ruger, I hauled it off to the range to test. The Hornady .275 Rigby ammo is loaded with their 140-grain Interlock soft-point, and out of the 18.5-inch barrel of my Ruger it “only” does 2,459 fps. In a world of laser-flat-trajectory magnums and super-BC bullets, a 140-grain soft-point may not seem like much. I agree, but the International isn’t a 1,000-yard rifle.

Ruger-M77-Tested — Five shots under 2 inches from a lightweight and stylish rifle, with a 5X max scope on it.

Following the design cues of the safari era, it’s perfectly suited to woods hunting and open areas not on the Great Plains. If I zero it 2 inches high at 100 yards, the drop at 300 yards is just over 4 inches. That means I’m good out almost to 300 without taking any trajectory into account. And if I do range-find a game animal at 300, I need only hold a couple of inches high to be all set.

Could I use other ammo? Yes. For 7×57, ammo that came with better performance than the Hornady Interlock (a difficult thing to do, by the way) is easy: Hornady Superformance. That has a 139-grain SST, with both a higher velocity and a better BC. If I needed a bit flatter trajectory, then that’d get the nod. Now tested, zeroed and ready to go, the International sits in my rack, waiting its turn.

Ruger Chrono 275 Testing — Velocities are averages of five shots measured on a Labradar chronograph set to read 15 feet from the muzzle. Accuracy average of three, five-shot groups at 100 yards.

So, my Mannlicher urge has been satisfied. The 1963 Stingray? I don’t fit; they weren’t made for someone 6 feet, 4 inches. Redheads? Got the scars from that episode. And chemistry? Despite loving it enough to get a degree in it, the thought of a 30-year career as a bench chemist for Megacorp LLC, ending with a dinner, a gold watch and pension was depressing.

So, I moved on … and here I am.

Ruger Hawkeye MkII .275 Rigby Specs

Type: Bolt-Action Rifle
Caliber: .275 Rigby (aka 7×57 Mauser)
Capacity: 4+1 Rounds
Barrel Length: 18.5″
Overall Length: 38.75″
Weight: 7 Pounds, 1 Ounce
Trigger: 4 Pounds, 4 Ounces
Finish: Stainless Steel
MSRP: $1,179 (one production run, no longer made)

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

More On Precision Rifles:

Top 17 Affordable Precision Rifles
How To Buy Or Build A Custom Precision Rifle
Precision Rifle Training: The Edge You Need For Hunting Season
Gun Review: Ruger Precision Rifle In 6mm Creedmoor

Breakthrough Clean Technologies Releases MSR Carbon Removal Tool

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February 23, 2022

Breakthrough Clean Technologies’ new MSR Carbon Removal Tool is a sleek and handy implement for keeping your AR clear of crud.

Despite being originally advertised as a “self-cleaning” rifle, most AR-15 owners know that it’s best to not let too much carbon build up inside their guns. Here to help clear out that baked-on gunk is Breakthrough Clean Technologies’ new MSR Carbon Removal Tool. For those who aren’t aware, MSR stands for “modern sporting rifle” and was coined to draw less ire from the anti-gun crowd when referring to AR-style rifles. Regardless of how you or Breakthrough Clean Technologies refer to these firearms, the company’s new MSR Carbon Removal Tool is the perfect solution for clearing the crud out of those hard-to-reach spaces.

The MSR Carbon Removal Tool isn’t the first of its kind on the gun maintenance accessory market, but it does distinguish itself from existing models. While some other carbon scrapers may have more cleaning implements like brushes built into their design, this also tends to hinder their ergonomics and portability. Both are traits that took priority when Breakthrough was designing their Carbon Removal Tool.

Reminiscent of an out-the-front switchblade knife, the MSR Carbon Removal Tool features two ends and can be protracted and retracted from either direction. The two ends of the scraper tool were each designed with different functions in mind, with parts of the blade specifically engineered for cleaning certain areas of the rifle ranging from the bolt lugs to the firing pin to the carrier itself.

The benefits of the Carbon Removal Tool’s retractable nature are two-fold. Not only does it allow for one to carry it in a bag or pocket without worry of damaging other items, but it also provides an ergonomic handle to grasp while actually using the tool to clean. Caked-on carbon can be tricky to get off, and the leverage provided by a long and sturdy handle can make things much easier. With an MSRP of only $18.95, the MSR Carbon Removal Tool would make for a useful addition to any AR-owner’s range bag, especially those who run their guns suppressed.

For more information, please visit breakthroughclean.com.

More Gun Gear:

Choosing The Best Reloading Dies
What Is The Best Concealed Carry Holster?
Open Your Eyes! Red-Dot Sights Are Superior
10 EDC Tools You Didn’t Know You Needed

Top .450 Bushmaster Upper Options–Complete And Stripped

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February 22, 2022

Looking to get into big-bore ARs? Here are 7 .450 Bushmaster upper options to make your own big iron.

What Are Top .450 Bushmaster Upper Choices:

San Tan Tactical Big Bore (stripped)
Obsidian Arms (stripped)
Aero Precision XL (stripped)
Next Level Armament NLX450 Bushmaster
Windham Weaponry .450 Thumper
Radical Firearms .450 Bushmaster MHR
Bear Creek Arsenal .450 Bushmaster

Until as of late, if you were hunting an AR around the Midwest in all likelihood you were hunting with a .450 Bushmaster. Packing plenty of punch at moderate distances, the big-bore brute is a proven venison getter, if you were up to its relatively stout recoil. That and it’s fairly expensive appetite. Factory ammo isn’t cheap. Even outside the great north woods, the .450 Bushmaster provides an interesting addition to any gun collection. If for no other reason than the opportunity to pitch 250-plus-grain projectiles from an AR-15.

Similar to most cartridges compatible with America’s favorite rifle, the .450 Bushmaster doesn’t require a new firearm to get behind the trigger. If you have a lower, all you need is a .450 Bushmaster upper and you’re in business. Isn’t modularity grand!

Obviously, there are a number of pre-assembled .450 Bushmaster uppers on the market, which we’ll look at in a second, but it’s more than feasible to build yours from the bottom up. We won’t break things down that far in this article, however, it’s worth the time to cover the difference between the main components of a Bushy and run-of-the-mill 5.56.

.450 Bushmaster Upper Inside Out

Some caliber conversions are more involved than others, that’s just the way of life. Say you were handy smith with AR-pattern rifles and were converting parts and not a complete upper (unnecessarily time-consuming, but this is an illustration). If you wanted to jump from a 5.56 NATO to .300 Blackout, technically the only part that would require replacement would be the barrel. Everything else about the uppers are seamless between the cartridges, which makes sense since the Blackout’s parent case is the 5.56 NATO.

Things are more complex and drastic jumping to .450 Bushmaster. Not only would you have to address the barrel, but also the bolt and the upper receiver itself. The upper receiver, while mil-spec in every other sense, must have its ejection port enlarged at the front to consistently kick your spent brass. This is the way it goes with any big-dog AR caliber, .458 Socom, .50 Beowulf, what have you, do to case length and diameter. If you’re a down-and-dirty tinker, you can break out your Dremel and a file grind away yourself, as long as you’re confident you won’t “Bubba” up the job.

If you don’t trust yourself, but still want to start from scratch, there are .450 Bushmaster upper receivers on the market, complete with precision milled ejection ports. Perhaps, this is as good a point as any to jump into your options.

Stripped .450 Bushmaster Upper Receiver Options

San Tan Tactical Big Bore

An expensive stripped option, but a .450 Bushmaster upper you can be assured is built to the tightest specs and is made for precision performance. San Tan’s Big Bore upper is constructed from billet aluminum, but isn’t blocky or heavy. Plus, it boasts a number of design enhancements that ensure it will perform for the long haul, such as the upper’s truss pocket. MSRP: $260; santantactical.com

Obsidian Arms

A very lightweight option, Obsidian Arm’s OA-15C big-bore upper is ideal for highly mobile builds, weighing only 8.8 ounces. Made from billet 7075 T6 aluminum alloy, the upper is more than up to withstanding the .450 Bushmaster’s punishment and your own personal abuse. Of course, it has an enlarged ejection port, but it also includes a removable brass deflector. Additionally, the upper is an eye-catcher with nice lines, if you like a bit sleeker-looking build. MSRP: $175; obsidianarms.com

Aero Precision XL

Those who’ve pieced together their own ARs previously, understand Aero is synonymous with value, offering high-quality parts at prices most can afford. It’s no different with the company’s .450 Bushmaster upper, the AR15 XL. A solidly made forged aluminum receiver, the XL has the strength to handle the big-bore brute, as well as the design specs to ensure it runs smoothly—i.e. an enlarged port. Plain-Jane in looks, the upper nonetheless performs. MSRP: $114.99; aeroprecisionusa.com

Go Big!:

.350 Legend Vs .450 Bushmaster: Does One Win Out For Hunting?
.450 Bushmaster Ammo: Is There A Cheap Way To Keep One Fed?
The Big, Big Bore: .450 Bushmaster
Five Top Big-Bore AR and Cartridge Options
Big-Bore AR Evolution Is Larger Than Life
Choosing A Big-Bore Cartridge And Rifle
Finding The Right Big-Bore Rifle Optic

Complete .450 Bushmaster Uppers

Next Level Armament NLX450 Bushmaster

Next Level Armament's NLX450 Bushmaster upper is built tough and ready to sustain the abuse that this big round provides. Besides including a forged upper receiver and extra-strength Springco buffer spring, the NLX450 also comes with a durable DLC finish, including on the bolt carrier. It also includes some components made by Tromix, a very well-respected name in the big-bore AR game. The .450BM bolt is made by Tromix as well as the barrel which is available in either 16-inch or 18-inch configurations with carbine or mid-length gas systems, respectively. The complete upper also includes an ambidextrous charging handle, MLOK handguard and a “Unique” muzzle brake made in-house by Next Level. Each NLX450 upper also ships with a 5-round magazine so you can get to shooting right away. MSRP: $852.12; nextlevelarms.com

Windham Weaponry .450 Thumper

Windham Weaponry does the Bushmaster right. Its Thumper (in homage to Col. Jeff Cooper’s Thumper concept) has about everything you’d want out of a .450 Bushmaster upper. This includes a massive 16-inch chrome-moly-vanadium heavy-profile barrel, complete with chrome-lined chamber and bore. The bolt is machined from magnetic particle inspected Carpenter 158 steel, standard in quality AR builds. And the AR sports a carbine-length gas system. Windham runs a bit shorter 13-inch aluminum handguard, with M-Lok slots at the three, six and nine o’clock positions. Additionally, it’s free-floated ensuring barrel harmonics remain pristine. Concerning muzzle devices, the Thumper comes with an A2 Birdcage flash hider, so if you’re recoil sensitive you’ll need to shop for a brake or compensator. However, the upper does ship with a 5-round magazine, tuned to smoothly feed .450 ammo. MSRP: $805; windhamweaponry.com

Radical Firearms .450 Bushmaster MHR

Definitely one of those companies more should know about, Radical Firearms gives shooters a lot of bang for their buck. A trademark of the company are options, which comes through on its .450 Bushmaster uppers. Available with either a 16- or 20-inch barrel, the upper gives you the ability to tailor your build to your style of shooting. In both cases, the barrels are heavy profile and topped off with the company’s Panzer brake, making the big-bore cartridge a bit more shootable. Radical outfits the build with its HMR handguard, a 15-inch lightweight hybrid option with plenty of M-Lok slots at three, six and nine o’clock positions. The ejection port is enlarged to ensure smooth cycling and the gunmaker uses top-end internals to put the whole package together. MSRP: $669.95; radicalfirearms.com

Bear Creek Arsenal .450 Bushmaster

If you’re just looking to dip your toe into the .450 Bushmaster, perhaps you don’t want to break the bank on your first build. In that case, Bear Creek Arsenal offers a unique upper that gets you started in the caliber without charging an arm and leg. The gunmaker’s 18-inch barreled .450 Bushmaster upper is a “Mama Bear” option, nimble but long enough to milk a little more out of the cartridge. Heavy profile, the fire tube adds heft and reduces recoil, though if you need a bit more in that area you’ll have to shop brakes and compensators since Bear Creek outfits the barrel with a flash hider. The upper has a 15-inch, M-Lok compatible handguard with plenty of space to accessorize. Uniquely, Bear Creek runs a side-charging system on the upper, which for many is desirable. Never fear lefties, it’s ambidextrous. MSRP: $244.99; bearcreekarsenal.com

Adam Borisenko contributed to this article.

Top Affordable .38 Special Revolver Options To Protect Your Six

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February 22, 2022

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Go small and reliable with these excellent snub-nose .38 Special Revolver options.

What Are The Top .38 Special Revolvers For Carry:

Smith & Wesson Model 642
Ruger LCR
Rock Island M206
Weihrauch Windicator
Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 38
Taurus 856CH
Charter Arms Off-Duty

Conjuring images of hardboiled detectives in fedoras, there is still something alluring the .38 Special revolver. Particularly the snub-nosed variety. Among the most concealable of handguns and steadfast as a faithful dog, there’s peace of mind in the tried and true wheelie. Though, it is a bit of an anachronism at this point.

Or is it?

True enough, the .38 Special revolver falls short on several accounts compared to today’s semi-automatic pistols. Yet, there is a place for the handgun in modern-day concealed carry, especially at the price many solid makes and model move for today. We’ll look at some of these affordable .38 Special revolver options in a moment. But before we head there, let's touch on some pros and cons of the platform.

Why You Want A .38 Special Revolver

Revolvers, to utter the word is to conjure up the idea of dependability. There’s truth in the stereotype. Overall, the platform is among the most reliable, in double-action format generally an aim and shoot affair. A round fails to fire, simply pull the trigger again and the repeater moves on to the next round.

This isn’t to say the handgun is impervious to malfunctions. They happen. When they do the mishaps are catastrophic compared to a semi-auto pistol. Tap and rack isn't going to solve a pulled bullet or stuck case in a revolver. That said, malfunctions of these magnitudes are exceedingly rare in a fully functional wheelgun shooting good ammunition.

On top of reliability, revolvers—those meant for concealed carry and especially the snubbie .38 Special revolver—are exceptionally easy to keep under wraps. Widthwise, the guns run thicker than the average concealed carry pistol. But with a barrel less than 2-inches and an overall length that rarely exceeds size of your hand, the snub nose .38 Special revolver cuts a low profile.

This leads to an intriguing aspect. More so than many semi-autos out there, the small wheelie is more compatible with different carry positions. If the hip doesn’t work for you, the handgun is a natural pocket pistol, carries great with a quality ankle rig and is dynamite in a belly band. Flexibility in concealment and body placement—along with its reliability—also makes the petite .38 Special revolver among the best backup guns ever set in cold steel.

Mild to shoot and deadly accurate at typical self-defense ranges, there is plenty to like about the .38 Special cartridge in and of itself. In fact, it’s among the most pleasurable to send downrange even in +P and out of small revolvers. When you’ve seen a shooter struggle to keep a .357 Magnum or even the 9mm out of light pistol consistently on target this advantage becomes clear. Round placement is the key factor in neutralizing a threat. Most can place rounds with a .38 Special.

Take Aim At The .38 Special:

Shooting the Snubnose Revolver
Know Your Cartridge: The Dependable .38 Special
Medium-Bore Match-Up: .38 Special vs 9mm
Choosing .38 Special Ammo For Self-Defense

Why You Don’t Want A .38 Special Revolver

Picking up where we left off, there is a downside to the caliber—its terminal ballistics. Long ago, due to its performance through barriers—particularly sheet metal and windshields—the FBI deemed the .38 Special unfit for service. Incidentally, these tests (the post 1986 Miami Shootout ballistics testing project) also eliminated the 9mm—which the bureau now carries (go figure). So, don’t expect to pack a thunderclap, especially out of a snubbie .38.

That said, with the right ammo the revolver performs. The key here is finding the right ammo, which means doing your homework to hound dog a round that consistently penetrates and expands. Don’t think this is an exercise exclusive to the .38 Special. Any caliber and handgun requires due diligence. Though, given the lower velocity at which the cartridge operates, acceptable options might not be as clear cut as they would be in, say, .45 ACP or .357 Magnum.

Additionally, the .38 Special revolver doesn’t have much ammo on tap. Concealed carry models, five rounds is the norm, though there are 6-round options. Walking hand-in-hand with capacity is reloading. Suffice to say, the process is neither as fast nor as simple as with a semi-auto pistol.

Speedloaders save time and get a revolver back into a fight more quickly than without. But even with an aid, the procedure takes a fair amount of fine motor skills and a cool head. Adrenaline coursing through the veins, both will be in short supply in a lethal-force encounter.

Finally, when it comes to challenges, there’s the revolver’s trigger. As previously mentioned, double-action triggers have advantages, but for those unfamiliar with them accuracy enhancement isn’t one of them. DOA triggers are heavy, making it difficult to hold on target through the break. It takes practice, plenty of it—with a bit of hand strength—to master this aspect of the revolver.

Best Affordable .38 Special Revolver Options

It’s worth a brief word as to the stipulations for this list. There are four criteria which we used to choose .38 Special revolvers:

Reliability: The guns are well made with a reliable track record.
Concealability: We’re looking at concealed carry revolvers, in turn, we’re sticking with snub-nose .38s.
Price: Aiming at the more affordable end of the market, we’ve set the ceiling at a $600 MSRP, which should give nearly every shooter access.
Accessibility: All the models are currently in production, thus found at most gun retailers.

Smith & Wesson Model 642

Since its introduction, the Model 642 has been a favorite among armed citizens, blending all the assets shooters expect in a Smith & Wesson. Chief among these is performance. The Massachusetts gunmaker turns out quality handguns that over the years have earned the reputation for reliability and accuracy.

Boasting an aluminum alloy frame, the “Airweight” is among the lightest options (14.6 ounces) in its class. The .38 Special revolver is also no bigger than a minute. Measuring in at a tick over 6-inches in overall length, the 642 opens a wealth of possibilities in carry style and position.

A concealed hammer and integral rear sights make the 5-round revolver a smooth draw and +P rating helps it pack a punch. But, keep in mind, this option is strictly double-action-only handgun.
MSRP: Starting at $477; smith-wesson.com

Ruger LCR

The LCR has won accolades for its concealability. For a good reason, Ruger’s carry-tailored .38 Special revolver is small, light and easy to keep under wraps. However, the 5-round wheelie has some other overlooked and highly desirable aspects. Perhaps A-No. 1, the +P-rated revolver’s fantastic trigger.

While the LCR’s pull is still long and heavy compared to semi-auto pistols, it's about as smooth as they come from the factory and is nearly impossible to stack. This goes a ways in improving the DAO revolver’s accuracy and makes it a solid option for those just learning the platform.

In addition to this, Ruger has engineered a level of customizability into the gun not found in many other revolvers. These include a swappable pinned front sight and an easily exchangeable grip system.
MSRP: $579; ruger.com

Rock Island Armory M206

Better known for its economical 1911s, Rock Island is also a competent revolver-smith. Look no further than the M206 for proof. Classical in design (somewhat reminiscent of a Colt Detective Special), the spurless .38 Special revolver adds a touch of aesthetics to its solid and dependable performance.

A bit heftier (24 ounces) than many modern snubbies, its carry position might be a bit more limited for most. Yet, the extra weight makes the 2-inched barrel M206 an absolute kitten to shoot, thus improves its accuracy potential, particularly shot to shot. Fairly standard fare, the gun comes with a ramp front sight and integral rear sight, and it boasts a desirable 6-round cylinder.

Now to a bit of controversy. The revolver’s literature and rollmark list it as a .38 Special, not +P. However, Armscorp claims you can run a limited amount of the higher pressure ammo through the gun. It’s a gray area for sure, one that makes some uneasy about using +P ammo in the gun at all.
MSRP: $492; armscor.com

Weihrauch Windicator

Outside the air gun world, Weihrauch isn’t a well-known name in America. However, the German gunmaker has a long tradition with revolvers, particularly those aimed at self-defense. And in recent years has offered one on the U.S. market—the Windicator.

Imported by European American Armory, the .38 Special revolver is fairly spartan. At the same tick, the 6-round wheelie is well made, dependable and concealable. Overall, not a bad mix.

The gun is among the heaviest on this list at an ample 1.7 pounds. That said, like any heavier gun it tames the already mild .38 Special considerably, improving its shot-to-shot accuracy.

Notably, the gun has an exposed hammer and spur, which give you the best of both worlds—single and double action. The former is much preferable to the latter, with the Windicator’s DA pull very heavy in compared to its American counterparts.

Though don’t let this scare you off, the gun still proves a great value and reliable. What else could you want from a concealed carry revolver?
MSRP: Starting at $345; eaacorp.com

Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 38

“Tactical revolver” sounds like an oxymoron but is what Smith and Wesson pulls this off with its M&P Bodyguard 38. Lightweight and configured to optimize manipulation, the .38 Special revolver is a marked break from S&W dogma … but works. In particular, Smith & Wesson moved the cylinder release from the left side to the rear of the frame, making it ambidextrous and giving shooters greater access during reloads.

Additionally, the gunmaker has dehorned every square inch of the 5-round revolver, ensuring it draws smoothly and without a hitch. Aiding in this is a low-rise ramp front sight and smoothed stainless steel cylinder.

Utilizing an aluminum alloy, the Bodyguard 38 comes in at a scant 14.4 ounces, making it acceptable for almost any conceivable style of carry. And a +P rating gives the handgun added punch.
MSRP: Starting at $402; smith-wesson.com

Taurus 856CH

As far as .38 Special revolvers go, the 856CH isn’t going to win any beauty contests. (What concealed carry snubbie is?) But it will perform when you need it to, which makes it an attractive option.

Part of the rebooted 856 line, the CH features a DAO spurless hammer, cutting down the gun's overall profile. It’s very reminiscent of the Taurus 85, but with one major difference—the 856 carries 6 rounds, as opposed to 5.

Boasting an aluminum-frame and carbon steel 2-inch barrel and cylinder, the revolver tips the scales at a flat 1-pound. It’s a nice middle ground, enough weight to tame +P ammunition, but not too much to make the gun cumbersome.
MSRP: $364; taurususa.com

Charter Arms Off-Duty

If concealability is at a premium, the Off-Duty is the answer. Among the smallest and lightest .38 Special revolvers available, the minuscule wheelie is a second thought to tote. Even better, if you’re looking for a back-up gun, the revolver was practically made for this duty.

Boasting an aluminum-alloy frame (stainless steel barrel and cylinder), the revolver tips the scales at 12 ounces, which is somewhat a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, the revolver is an absolute second thought to tote and can be carried anywhere. As far as pocket pistols go, it’s a knockout. The flipside, even the tame .38 Special can make the light gun hop in your hand.

Charter Arms mitigates some of this with a contoured, rubberized grip. Your pinky will hang, but overall it gives you good control over the revolver. As to other assets, it’s streamlined, with an encased hammer, so snags aren’t a worry. And the Off-Duty is quick to manipulate with a left-side cylinder release.
MSRP: Starting at $420; charterfirearms.com

Taurus Announces G3XL Carry Pistol

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February 22, 2022

Taurus’ latest addition to the G-series line of pistols is the G3XL, featuring a full-size G3 slide on a compact frame designed for concealed carry.

Taurus’ G-series of handguns aim to be as inexpensive as possible while still providing shooters with no-frills, reliable CCW pistol options. The guns are quite basic, but they do seem to have the quality where it counts respective to their price tags. Taurus claims that the G-series has the best performance-to-cost ratio of any CCW pistols on the market, and despite the guns’ basic features, they are at least known for being very reliable. The newest addition to the G-series is the Taurus G3XL, and despite being yet another polymer-framed 9mm striker-fired handgun, it does bring something new to the table.

The Taurus G3XL is a hybrid handgun that uses a full-size slide on a compact frame. This is almost like a reverse Glock 19X, and it’s what many people believed Glock should have done when they released that model. By using a full-size slide with a compact frame, the G3XL gets the best of both worlds in a concealed carry pistol: the concealability of a compact grip combined with the sight radius and performance of a full-sized slide and barrel.

The manual safety lever on the G3XL has been removed and the accessory rail has been shortened to streamline the pistol and provide for a faster potential draw time. While Taurus doesn’t state it outright, the fact that the new pistol uses a standard-length G3 slide should make it compatible with existing G3 holsters as well.

The G3XL will ship with two flush-fitting 12-round magazines, making it just as concealable as the older Taurus G3c, but it will be able to accept extended 15 and 17-round magazines as well. A 10-round model is also available for those who live in states with magazine restrictions. The G3XL's sights, finish and other small features are otherwise unchanged from the rest of the G-series guns, including its economical price with an MSRP of $342.98.

For more information, please visit TaurusUSA.com.

More CCW Pistols

The Springfield Hellcat
The SIG P365
The Ruger MAX-9
The Taurus GX4
The Smith And Wesson M&P Shield Plus

Mosin-Nagant Ammo: Best 7.62x54R Options

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February 20, 2022

No reason to crutch on mil-surp, here are seven top Mosin-Nagant ammo options for hunting and target work.

What Are The Top Ammo Choices For The Mosin-Nagant:

Hunting Ammo

Barnaul 203-grain SPBT
Winchester 180-grain JSP
PPU 150-grain SP
Graf & Sons 150-Grain Hornady SST
Peterson Cartridge 165-Grain Sierra Tipped Gameking
DoubleTap 123-Grain Barnes TSX

Giant sardine cans of mil-surp ammunition. If you’re like most shooters that’s what you feed your Mosin-Nagant. Why not? Despite being decommissioned decades ago, the leftover 7.62x54R ammo remains plentiful and, more importantly, cheap. Except, like a diet of junk food, you aren’t really getting the most out of old warhorse when you graze it on this stuff.

Certainly, it’s good enough for most range work and emulsifying the odd watermelon here and there. But it’s not exactly the top-shelf ammo you’d want to bet your life on when reaching out past 200 yards consistently. Plus, much of it is harder on your Mosin-Nagant than a Siberian winter.

This is because it’s corrosive, leaving a residue of potassium chloride and/or sodium chloride in your bore. Don’t get that gunk cleaned out and quickly, you’re looking at pitting your rifle’s bore. Plus, it isn’t exactly the cleanest stuff in the world aside from its caustic elements. In either case, you’ll invest a share-and-a-half of elbow grease keeping your Mosin-Nagant clean.

If that’s not enough to sway you, mil-surp ammo is old. Decades upon decades in most cases. While that doesn’t make it trash, it doesn’t exactly make it treasure either. If it hasn’t been stowed correctly in whatever Eastern Bloc warehouse it wiled away the fall of communism, its performance can degrade to the point of frustration. It’s cheap and will feel that way with every trigger pull.

When it comes to Mosin-Nagant ammunition, there’s a better way. While it isn’t exactly falling off the shelves like 5.56mm, there is a load of freshly loaded and modern 7.62x54R ammo on the market that can breathe new life into your Eurasian icon. Modern bullets, cases, propellants and primers work wonders for the rifle’s accuracy and aptitude at a variety of tasks. So if you aren’t well versed in Mosin-Nagant ammunition options (at least the ones chambered in the good old 7.62x54R) we're here to catch you up to speed with the top choices presently available.

Best 7.62x54R Hunting Ammunition

Barnaul 203-grain SPBT

Compared to its full metal jacket ammo, Barnaul’s SPBT isn’t as easily found. Yet, the 203-grain round is worth the hunt. Offering excellent ballistics in a weight appropriate for almost all North American large game, the ammo is a do-all. Mercifully, Barnaul uses non-corrosive primers in the ammo, however, with a steel case. It’s lacquered, so it feeds and extracts easily—especially in the bolt-action Mosin-Nagant. And unless you’re working the bolt like a madman, you aren’t going to cause any undue fatigue to your rifle.

Specs
Ballistic Coefficient: .451
Muzzle Velocity: 2,306 fps
Muzzle Energy: 2,629 ft-lbs

Da Comrade! We Have More Russian Guns:

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The AK: Rifle for the Motherland
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Winchester 180-grain JSP

One of the few American-made options in Mosin-Nagant ammo, Winchester’s 180-grain 7.62x54R option isn’t flashy, but gets the job done. It’s topped with a plain old cup-and-core soft-point bullet, but moving 2,625 fps the round is a capable medium- and large-game option. The one drawback, it doesn’t offer the same weight retention of more modern bonded-core bullets, but don’t let that scare you off. Our grandfathers slew deer by the droves with similar projectiles. A big bonus, the cases are brass, which means you can reload the buggers.

Specs
Ballistic Coefficient: N/A
Muzzle Velocity: 2,625 fps
Muzzle Energy: 2,751 ft-lbs

PPU 150-grain SP

Most bullet weights for the 7.62x54R—at least the hunting-appropriate type—tend to the heavier side, 180- and 200-plus-grains. That what makes PPU’s 150-grain option so intriguing. Certainly, it’s appropriate for elk, moose and black bear, but it’s also quite proper for medium-sized game such as hogs, antelope and whitetail. Compared to other Mosin-Nagant ammo, it moves at a good clip, with the listed velocity at 2,838 fps.
But if light and fast isn’t your cup of tea, never fear, PPU also has a 180-grain offering with the same cup-and-core bullet. Another plus, PPU’s stuff is completely reloadable—brass cases compatible with boxer primers.

Specs
Ballistic Coefficient: N/A
Muzzle Velocity: 2,838 fps
Muzzle Energy: 2,682 ft-lbs

Graf & Sons 150-Grain Hornady SST

Big-name American ammo-makers somewhat turn their back on the 7.62x54R, but that doesn’t mean you can enjoy the performance of their products. Graf & Sons teamed up with Hornady to produce an exceptional hunting round, utilizing one of the legendary bullet maker’s most icon projectiles. Topped with a 150-grain SST polymer-tipped bullet, Graf & Sons’ Mosin-Nagant ammo boasts among the best BC/velocity profiles in the cartridge. True, it tends to the lighter side. Don’t let this dissuade you. It hits deer, hogs and coyotes like a bolt from the blue, and is a bit easier on the shoulder in the process. Also, if you need dead-nuts range fodder, nobody going to fault you for pitching it at targets.

Specs
Ballistic Coefficient: .311
Muzzle Velocity: 2,800 fps
Muzzle Energy: 2,612 ft-lbs

Peterson Cartridge 165-Grain Sierra Tipped Gameking

Sierra Tipped Gamechanger for the Mosin-Nagant? A rarified proposition once reserved for reloading geeks is now available to the masses thanks to the Peterson Cartridge. To start, the choice of a 165-grain Tipped Gamechanger, well … chef’s kiss. An unfortunately overlooked weight class in .30-calibers, 165-grain bullets tend to offer the best of all worlds, offering excellent velocity with an exceptional BC. In this case, a whopping .511 BC. Expect the ammo to push your warhorse to its and your limits on the hunt and deliver once on target. The polymer-tipped bullets are renowned for their terminal performance, knocking holes in game that put and keep them down. Also, don’t hesitate spending some of Peterson’s ammo at the range. The results are satisfying.

Specs
Ballistic Coefficient: .511
Muzzle Velocity: N/A
Muzzle Energy: N/A

DoubleTap 123-Grain Barnes TSX

Wait … DoubleTap? That DoubleTap? Yes, the very same one rife with live-saving defensive ammunition options also has you covered when it comes to lead-free hunting ammunition for your Mosin-Nagant. Of course, the company turns to Barnes for the bullet—a 123-grain TSX solid-copper projectile that cooks from the muzzle. Is 3,325 fps fast enough for you? Dollar to donuts, it will be for any game at the receiving end. Don’t let the light weight of the bullet give you the jitters if you’re aiming at big game. Tough as a hickory stump, solid copper projectiles punch well above their weight; in this case, expect it to perform on par with 150-plus-grain bullets.

Specs
Ballistic Coefficient: .310
Muzzle Velocity: 3,325 fps
Muzzle Energy: 3,020 ft-lbs

Best 7.62x54R Target/Match Ammo

Sellier & Bellot 174-grain HPBT

Sellier & Bellot gets you on target with an exception match-grade round designed precisely for drilling the bullseye. A boat-tail hollow-point kept to tight tolerance, the 174-grain option has the chops to extend the reach of your Russian bang-stick, accurately so. The bullet has an exceptional ballistic coefficient (.500) and leaves the muzzle at a respectable 2,585 fps. Again, Sellier & Bellot load the ammo with brass cases, so they're reloadable. But the ammunition performs solidly enough it’s difficult to resist just shooting another box of the factory-loaded stuff.

Specs
Ballistic Coefficient: .500
Muzzle Velocity: 2,585 fps
Muzzle Energy: 2,588 ft-lbs

Barnaul 185-grain FMJ

An affordable target-shooting option, Barnaul’s 185-grain Mosin-Nagant ammo has the assets to make your range-time fruitful. Boasting a full metal jacket boat-tail bullet, the round has excellent ballistics and consistent performance. Barnaul lists the BC of the bullet at .524, with a muzzle velocity of 2,470 fps. Perhaps the biggest plus for economical 7.62x54R ammo, it's non-corrosive, so you don’t have to worry about scrubbing your rifle’s bore immediately after some trigger time. Though, like all of Barnaul’s offerings, it’s steel cased, so spent rounds don’t represent reloading opportunities.

Specs
Ballistic Coefficient: .524
Muzzle Velocity: 2,470 fps
Muzzle Energy: 2,511 ft-lbs

Wolf Polyformace 174-grain FMJ

Wolf has made a name for itself as the purveyors of some of the most economical ammo around—this goes for the 7.62x54R. And it’s difficult to go wrong feeding your Mosin-Nagant with its tried-and-true 174-grain Polyformance ammo. As straight forward as it gets, the ammo is topped with a plain old full-metal jacket bullet that’s pushed 2,558 fps at the muzzle and will hit the mark. The case is steel, but coated in a polymer to ensure smooth feeding and extraction, as well as making the ammo waterproof. For everyday target work with your Nagant, it’s difficult to do better at the price Wolf generally demands.

Specs
Ballistic Coefficient: N/A
Muzzle Velocity: 2,558 fps
Muzzle Energy: N/A

PPU 182-grain Match

Designed for match-grade performance, PPU 182-grain match ammunition ups your Mosin-Nagant’s game. The Serbian company keeps the tolerances tight with very uniform full-metal jacket, boat-tail bullets that do a good job at bucking the wind. They also load them fairly hot for 7.62x54R—with the ammo’s muzzle velocity listed as 2,626 fps. The cases are brass, so they are reloadable. Additionally, PPU’s match ammo can usually be found at a reasonably decent price.

Specs
Ballistic Coefficient: .521
Muzzle Velocity: 2,626
Muzzle Energy: N/A

Best Plate Carrier Accessories: What, Where And Why

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February 18, 2022

A look at some of the most common plate carrier accessories and the best locations to mount them, what they do and why they’re useful.

In our first post discussing how to configure a plate carrier setup, we touched on the basics of what kinds of plate carrier accessories are typically attached to body armor, but this subject deserves to be explored much more thoroughly. Choosing what to attach to your vest is not an exact science, as much of it will depend on your personal preferences, environment and “mission”. This guide won’t tell you exactly which plate carrier accessories you should get, but it should give a better handle on the options, what they can do for you and where to mount them.

Plate Carrier Accessories Feature — A plate carrier with an open-top triple rifle mag pouch, double Taco-style pistol mag pouch, IFAK and tourniquet attached to it via MOLLE.

Attachment Methods

Before discussing where one should mount their plate carrier accessories, it’s important to understand the different methods of attachment.

The most common method, and one you’ve undoubtedly heard of, is MOLLE. MOLLE stands for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment, and it is colloquially used to describe both sides of the loadbearing system. Technically speaking, only the gear which gets attached to the system has MOLLE, and what it attaches to is called PALS (Pouch Attachment Ladder System). Only the most pedantic of operators would be annoyed at you for referring to it collectively as MOLLE, however.

Plate Carrier Accessories MOLLE — A Taco-style rifle mag pouch attached to a carrier via MOLLE.

Attaching MOLLE And PALS

MOLLE plate carrier accessories attach to PALS by weaving the MOLLE straps of the components through the webbing of the PALS until the two are solidly intertwined. Feeding the straps through the webbing can be a challenge, especially when PALS real estate is limited, but I’ve found that using needle-nose pliers to grab the straps is very helpful during installation. This modular system for attaching accessories is used on everything from backpacks to armor vests and has proven to be a very solid method. While improvements to the system have been experimented with such as laser-cut MOLLE using different materials, the general concept is showing no signs of being retired any time soon.

Mag Pouches

Magazine pouches are usually considered to be the most important of the various plate carrier accessories, as having ammunition for your rifle is what keeps you in the fight. There are tons of different styles and brands of MOLLE magazine pouches for a variety of different rifles, so we’re only going to look at a few examples of the different kinds.

Mag Pouch Caliber Considerations
The first thing to consider when selecting mag pouches is obviously the caliber and style of one’s rifle. For the vast majority of Americans reading this, that will be a 5.56 AR-15, but just because that’s what dominates the mag pouch aftermarket doesn’t mean that’s all you’re limited to. For those who are building their kit around a rifle chambered for 7.62 NATO, 7.62 Soviet, a pistol caliber or anything else not STANAG mag-shaped, there are still plenty of choices out there.

How Many Mag Pouch Is Enough
Another consideration of rifle mag pouches is how many you plan on carrying on the front of your plate carrier. Besides the obvious limitation of PALS real estate, there are also concerns regarding weight, bulk, movement and the ability to get close to the ground. While some individuals choose to run two layers of magazines on the front of their carrier, others find that this method protrudes too far from the body. Ultimately, it’s up to you to find the placement and number of magazines that work best for your purposes. There are pouch panels that exist as a single unit with a row of three or four mag pouches each as well as single-unit styles and everything in between.

Mag Pouch Placement
As for the placement of mag pouches on one’s plate carrier, there aren’t many options besides the very front. Depending on your specific vest and the plate carrier accessories you’ve already mounted to it, you may be able to mount mag pouches slightly higher or lower or place an extra individual pouch or two on the side of the cummerbund, but generally speaking, rifle mags are mounted as low as possible across the front of the vest.

Covered-Top Pouches

The most basic style of mag pouch is this closed-top design. While they are the slowest to access, they also provide some of the best security and protection against the elements.

Blackhawk S.T.R.I.K.E. Triple Mag Pouches

Open-Top Pouches

This type of pouch is quicker to access than the closed-top kind but is generally less expensive than the “taco-style”. They provide decent security for magazines during movement, but the elastic bands that hold them in place can get in the way during reloads if not being careful.

TRYBE Tactical Triple Mag Pouches

“Taco-Style” Pouches

The style was pioneered by HSGI who still make the original under the name “TACO”. Other companies have imitated the design, however, giving birth to what is typically just known as “taco-style” pouches. Regardless of which manufacturer you go with, this kind uses the tension of an elastic shock cord to squeeze the shell together and hold a magazine in place. This retains the mag securely enough that it won’t go flying while you run, jump or fight, but loosely enough that they can be easily retrieved when needed. This is definitely the fastest style of mag pouch for reloading, but it also leaves mags exposed to the elements.

HSGI LT Rifle TACO Pouch

Medical

There is quite a lot of variation when it comes to IFAKs (Individual First Aid Kit) as well. There are small and large models, styles designed to be retrieved and used by the wearer themselves and others designed for use by a team medic. Your personal level of medical knowledge and skill should be what determines what you put in your IFAK if you plan on ever using it to treat yourself, whereas if you have teammates you plan on surviving the apocalypse with you should coordinate your IFAK’s contents with the person most trained in combat medicine. This same stipulation will affect your IFAK’s placement on your vest as well.

There are also medical items that are often stored outside of an IFAK like tourniquets which can have their own special carriers for attaching directly to a vest, and presuming you know how to apply one yourself this should definitely be placed within your reach.

Raptor Tactical IFAK

This style uses a base pad with MOLLE to attach to a plate carrier, which in turn secures the IFAK using Velcro. This allows for the IFAK to be quickly removed and accessed if needed.

S.O. Tech Viper Flat IFAK

This style is smaller and more compact but obviously can hold fewer supplies as a result. It also slides out of the base that holds it rather than attaching via Velcro.

Comms

The style of pouch you need is highly dependent on the communication system you have configured. Because comms are already a highly technical and personal aspect of a gear setup, it would be a waste of time to discuss all the different radio pouch options available. If you own a good radio that you plan on using in conjunction with your plate carrier, how you attach it, where you attach it and how you wire it all up to your head will vary greatly, so that’s up to you to figure out. For those just starting to consider a communication system as an addition to their kit, just know that there are plenty of decent plate carrier accessories to help you do it. Here’s just one basic example to serve as a reference.

5.11 Tactical Radio Pouch

Other Plate Carrier Accessories

There are plenty of other plate carrier accessories out there with varying levels of usefulness depending on how and where you plan on using your body armor. Here are just a few examples of different items you could add to your kit to expand its versatility.

Admin Pouch

Despite the serious-sounding name, admin pouches are just pouches for general utility items that may need to be accessed somewhat frequently. They can keep things like a GPS, maps or a notebook separate, protected and easy to get to. These are typically mounted on the upper-most section of the front of a plate carrier.

Blue Force Gear Admin Pouch

Lower Accessory Pouch

This is similar in concept to an admin pouch, but rather than being mounted near the top of the carrier these were designed to hang off the bottom over the wearer’s groin. Sometimes called dangler pouches, these have more volume than admin pouches and can be used to store whatever you believe you may need quick access to in the field—whether that be more medical supplies or a just bag of beef jerky.

Tactical Tailor Lower Accessory Pouch

Knife

Knives are another common plate carrier accessory, although one that isn’t as concrete in its implementation as most other items. There are a lot of good ways to rig a sheath to a vest without buying anything special, and that’s what many guys end up doing, but here’s one that was purpose-built for mounting to a carrier. MSRP for the knife dangler is $40 at parashootergear.com.

Parashooter Gear Nairobi Knife Dangler

More Tactical Gear

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Choosing A Plate Carrier Backpack
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Sig Sauer Releases P365 In .380 ACP

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February 17, 2022

Sig has just released the P365-380, a new variant of their extremely popular CCW pistol now chambered for .380 ACP.

The Sig P365 has been incredibly popular since its release. Veteran concealed carriers and new gun owners alike were impressed by its shootability and capacity despite its small size. Chambered for 9mm, most individuals found the P365’s recoil to be manageable, but there are always people looking to defend themselves who have issues with things like grip strength. Targeting those who require their handgun to have lower recoil but would still like to carry a P365, Sig has just released the P365-380.

Virtually identical to the standard 9mm model, the only substantial change on the P365-380 is its caliber, but that change yields more than one benefit. When it comes to managing the recoil of a small and light handgun, .380 ACP is obviously more controllable than 9mm, but the change in caliber has also resulted in a weaker recoil spring and lighter slide and barrel. This all adds up to a pistol that’s easier to rack and over 3-ounces lighter than its 9mm counterpart. Because the profile remains identical, however, the P365-380 will be compatible with all existing P365 holsters as well. Both the 9mm and .380 models utilize the same grip frame and fire control group too, and while Sig doesn’t outright claim it to be possible it stands to reason that one could swap the barrels, slides and magazines between the two without issue.

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One more difference between the new P365-380 and the 9mm model is that the .380 version includes some upgrades as standard features right out of the box, including SIGTRON night sights and an optics-ready slide.

One area that hasn’t been improved in the P365-380 is capacity, as it features the same flush fit 10-round magazines as the 9mm version. Also, unlike the standard model, the P365-380 only has 10-round mags available. While Sig also makes extended 12 and 15-round mags for the 9mm model, so far, they haven’t said anything about doing the same for the new .380.

There will undoubtedly be people who are interested in getting a P365-380, but with pistols chambered for the recently introduced 30 Super Carry vying for much of the same market, time will tell just how popular the P365-380 will really be. It will be available either with or without a manual thumb safety and each gun will include two 10-round mags (one with a finger extension) and a magazine loader. MSRP will also be the same as the 9mm version at $499.99.

For more on Sig Sauer, please visit sigsauer.com.

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2021 Best CCW Pistol Guide

New Guns And Gear February 2022

By

Gun Digest Editors

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February 16, 2022

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:

Weatherby Mark V Hunter Bolt Action
Nosler Model 21 Rifle
DRD Tactical MFP-21 Pistol
S&W 10mm M&P 2.0
Mossberg 590S
CZ 600 Bolt Action Trail
Springfield Armory Ronin EMP

Weatherby Mark V Hunter Bolt Action

As recognizable as the Weatherby name itself, the Mark V action is considered by many among the finest available in bolt-action. Now it can be found on quite a pack, perfectly tailored for your next backcountry hunt. Dubbed the Mark V Hunter, the polymer-stocked rifle not only offers a featherweight option for elk or deer season, but also a wealth of chamberings. In all, the rifle is available in 16 different chamberings, including modern-day favorites such as 6.5 Creedmoor, and standby hot rods like the .257 Weatherby Magnum. Additionally, the lightweight deep-fluted barrel comes with a ½ x28 thread pattern muzzle, making the addition of a suppressor or brake a snap. MSRP: $1,499

Nosler Model 21 Rifle

More than an innovator in ammunition, Nosler has proved itself an adept rifle-smith. The Model 21 is a prime example. A feature-rich production bolt-action, it gives the feel and performance of a custom build—but in a package many more shooters can afford. Dressed in a lightweight carbon-fiber McMillan stock, the rifle is ideal for hunts that take you several ridgelines back. And it’s designed to stand up to these rugged environments, with a forward-looking design that ensures it cycles and shoots with-out a hitch. Some of the more notable features in this arena include a flute and nitride-coated bolt in a one-piece action that’s virtually jam-free. And, the fully-adjustable TriggerTech switch is capable of being set nearly as light as a competition trigger. MSRP: $2,795

DRD Tactical MFP-21 Pistol

DRD Tactical has whipped up some interesting offerings over the years, but their latest creation might take the cake. A quick takedown pistol, the MFP-21 not only shrinks down to a more than manageable backpack gun, but it also allows shooters to swap caliber in the blink of an eye. Featuring interchange-able barrels, the pistol seamlessly jumps between 5.56 NATO and .300 BLK, vastly increasing its operational utility. The MFP-21 features a Picatinny rail incorporated on the rear of the receiver. It accepts any Picatinny rail attachment brace and offers improved brace stability. This pistol also includes a new patented gas block, ambidextrous bolt release and custom two-stage trigger, designed by DRD Tactical. MSRP: $2,500

S&W 10mm M&P 2.0

A 10mm Smith & Wesson pistol? It’s been a spell since shooters could utter that. No, the 1006 isn’t back in production, but the iconic gunmaker is back in the “Perfect 10” game with the introduction of the caliber in its popular striker-fired line. Yes, the M&P 2.0 is now available in 10mm and gives folks plenty of reasons to look that direction if they have a yen for the snappy caliber. In addition to an excellent 15-round capacity, the pistol also comes with a flat-faced trigger, interchangeable palmswell grips, ridged stainless-steel chassis and the choice of a 4- or 4.6-inch barrel. Additionally, Smith &Wesson offers the 10mm M&P in three models, one with a thumb safety, one without and one with a slide cut for mounting an optic. MSRP: $654

Mossberg 590S

No stranger to top-notch smooth-bores, Mossberg has set out to top the iconic original 500 with its latest pump gun. Does the 590S do it? With the ability to digest 1¾-, 2¾- or 3-inch shells, it’s difficult not to find ammo it won’t greedily gobble up. The gun’s full-length stocks are paired with an 18.5-inch barrel with bead sight or 20-inch barrel with adjustable ghost-ring sights, the larger model with an M-Lok-compatible forend (about time on a production gun). And it comes with all the features 500-series shooters love, from twin action bars to anti-jam elevator. MSRP: Starting at $623

CZ 600 Bolt Action Trail

Unique in about every definition of the word, CZ’s Trail is an AR/chassis hybrid designed to bring precision to the field. Part of the company’s new 600 bolt-action line, the rifle’s modular design should appeal to hard-core AR fans looking to add a bolt-action to their rotation …while the sturdy stocking system should appeal to the precision nuts. Some of the more intriguing features include a telescoping stock, free-floated M-Lok handguard, enclosed receiver and Picatinny optics rail. Though, at present, the gunmaker only offers the 16-inch barreled configuration with its mini action, meaning it’s only available in .223 Remington and 7.62x39mm. But the workhorse cartridges are gems out of the lightweight and accurate setup. MSRP: $1,155

Springfield Armory Ronin EMP

In the sphere of 1911s, few companies make the classic style of semi-auto pistol more accessible than Springfield Armory. The gunmaker also makes them practical. Case in point: the Ronin EMP—a marriage between two of the company’s popular 1911 lines that’s resulted in an absolute knockout carry option. Mating the newish Ronin series to the EMP (Enhanced Micro Pistol) frame, the pistol boasts a scant 3-inch barrel, yet comes with all the popular features of its full-sized sibling. This includes a dashing two-tone finish. Further setting it apart, Springfield chambers the Ronin EMP in 9mm, making for an incredibly controllable carry piece that hits the mark over and over again. MSRP: $849

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

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Benjamin Airguns Go Big Bore: The Bulldog .457

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February 16, 2022

Benjamin Airguns has just introduced the Bulldog .457, and it will be the largest caliber air rifle offered by the company.

As Crosman's “premium line”, Benjamin air rifles are well established among those who hunt with air guns. Previously, the largest available model was the Bulldog .357, but Benjamin has just announced the release of the larger caliber Bulldog .457 with increased air and projectile capacities.

Aiming to give big-game air rifle hunters improved stopping power, the Bulldog .457 can now deliver up to 450 foot-pounds of energy, over double that of the older .357 model. The increased energy output should not only make hunting larger animals more efficient and ethical, but in some states with minimum FPE requirements, it could make it legal as well.

Senior Product Manager Phillip Guadalupe had this to say on the new Bulldog:

The Bulldog .457 is the most powerful compact PCP set to hit the market. Not only will it take down big game, it’ll do it with smaller projectiles and with a max fill pressure of 3000psi. That adds up to a serious beast of an air rifle that handles as ingeniously and distinctively as any Benjamin,

The Bulldog .457 features a 440cc air reservoir, an increased 3-round capacity and a threaded barrel for hunting with a suppressor. It will be available for purchase sometime in February 2022 and will have an MSRP of $1,099.99.

For more information on Benjamin Airguns, please visit crosman.com.

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Mastering Magnum Cartridges

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Frank Galli

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February 16, 2022

Why it's important to master the “littles” before moving up to big rifles and magnum cartridges.

It’s interesting how many new shooters jump to larger-caliber rifles first before understanding the necessity of the tool they’re about to purchase. I often get queried about a rifle purchase before a class by students, and I’m amazed by how many are considering a magnum cartridge rifle for their first time out.

It seems the .338 Lapua class of rifles is the go-to for many new shooters. After all, bigger is better …correct?

Magnum Cartridges Feature — It’s about the process, collecting and evaluating data while engaged in real-world live-fire activities.

A Class Of Their Own

For starters, big guns command a lot of respect. I was one of the first units in the Marine Corps to be issued a .50-caliber SASR. The Iver Johnson .50-cal. was a single-shot bolt-action rifle designed by Daisy. Yes, the air rifle people designed the .50-caliber sniper rifle I was issued—and it was a tank.

The rifle weighed more than 30 pounds. It had a short bolt with a claw on it where the user inserted the round. Then, the bolt and bullet were locked into place together. The rifle beat up shooters, broke scopes … and nobody wanted to carry it. It was fun shooting far and seeing the damage it’d cause; however, we never considered it anything other than a specialized tool to break large objects.

Like cars, many feel the need for horsepower. Early on in my Alaska classes, everyone showed up to class with a .300 Win. Mag. or larger because they hunt dinosaurs up there. Large-caliber magnum cartridges are flinching factories for the uninitiated. You want to hone your skills on the lighter-recoiling rifles before moving to the big guns.

Magnum-Cartridges-Tubb — David Tubb is the ultimate example of collecting and analyzing data, then putting it into practice on the range. He gathers more information than most others, and it shows.

If you consider the benefit of dry-fire, understand that by working your fundamentals with a smaller caliber, you remove the negative parts of the shooting magnum cartridges.

Today, the big guns are the makers of myths. You have competitions designed around them in hopes of pushing the envelope. They’re engineering laboratories used by the shooters to break boundaries and improve accuracy down the line.

When I first attended the early King of 2 Mile competitions, the shooters were lucky to hit the 1-mile target on command. That was the bucket list item to check off. Can we be successful at 1 mile? Absolutely. One mile is no longer a mystery.

Today, that bucket list location is closer to 2,500 yards. This is the distance they’re starting to hit on command. You need the experience to engage these targets, understanding the trajectory and wind for the bullet you’re shooting. You don’t get that without committing the shot to diagnose the variables.

Once they crack the code, they begin to manage those conditions better and better. Each new range is a new set of variables and a new code to be broken. This is helping to change bullet technology and the way we use radar, all born of the want to push the bullet further than the guy before you.

Magnum Cartridges Winners — The Top King of 2 Mile Shooters are consummate competitors. Their strategy has changed to shoot more real-world distances versus modeling it.

Less Can Be More

Learn the fundamentals and hone your skills inside 1,000 yards with smaller calibers first.

Today, many are shooting the 6mm and 6.5 Creedmoor like our grandfathers shot their .30-06s and .300 Win. Mags. The need for a .338 Lapua is specific; it’s designed for extreme long-range shooting … not inside 500 yards to harvest deer and elk. You don’t need a caliber that large, which is exactly why you see a caliber like the 6.5 PRC today. When you move to magnum cartridges, have a purpose.

But big guns get the views, right. Videos of shots beyond 3,000 yards are all the rage, but most hide the fact they’ve been at it all day. One of the more popular videos took 194 rounds to get the hit they highlighted. That’s not accurate, nor is it precise; throw enough lead downrange and eventually everything downrange will get hit.

DTAmmo Magnum Cartridges — The heart of a big gun is the ammo. Custom or factory rifle, the ammunition is the key to success at extended long ranges.

When I teach ELR classes, I focus on the conditions, the preparation and the execution of the firing task. I want my students to get either a first- or second-round hit, because after five shots, their time at that target is finished. Rarely do they need more than three, but five I consider the limit.

Big Guns Are Slow And Methodical

All that said, make no mistake: Big-bores have their place in the long-range arena. And, I love the process of sending a big bullet a long way. Everything must be monitored because the time of flight is so long. I watch the wind for several minutes so I can start to understand the timing of the changes. Can I slide a round between them? Think about the process more than the bang.

Tubb-Magnum-Cartridges — Big guns are a crew-served weapons system. They are not meant for one person.

Understand that shooting a big gun is like learning to drive a tractor-trailer; they have specialized requirements and specialized instructional schools. Many people can move forward in a truck, but how many can do the job?

Like all gun skills, proper training and adequate trigger time are keys to mastering the big bores.

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

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Best Pistol Targets To Sharpen Your Handgun Skills

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Gun Digest Editors

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February 15, 2022

If you plan to get the most out of your handgun, you need to think about what pistol targets will up your game. Here's what you need to know and the ones to look at.

What Are The Types Of Pistol Targets Available:

Accuracy style targets meant to refine your sight picture and other fundamentals.
Skill evaluation targets give you an idea of the areas you need to work on in your skillset.
Dynamic shooting targets aid in adding movement into your training regime.

On the surface, shooting targets seems little more than, well … shooting targets. As long as you have something to set your sights on and are able to hit it, what more do you need, right?

To a certain extent, this is true, particularly when you’re talking about pleasure shooting. However, if you’re aiming to up your marksmanship skills, putting a bit more thought into the terminal destination of your bullets is warranted.

This is especially true when it comes to handguns. With the rise of concealed carry popularity in recent decades, pistol targets have become legion, available in every shape, size and configuration. Truly, there are some wild and weird examples. But, if more accurate, quick and competent shooting is your goal, you needn’t get crazy with your pistol targets.

A number of old standbys – and some with new twists – still prove excellent options in advancing your handgun skills. So, before you run out to buy that crazy, and most likely expensive, 3D bleeding zombie to bang away at, let’s consider what will actually make you a more proficient pistol shooter.

Accuracy

By and large, the majority of handguns fill one particular role – self-defense. In turn, when training, most shooters consider center mass on a silhouette “accurate enough.” The notion isn’t entirely wrong, but isn’t entirely right, either.

Certainly, a defensive situation – adrenaline pumping – isn’t exactly conducive to hair-splitting accuracy. However, that’s no excuse to turn a blind eye on slow-fire precision shooting – even with your 3.5-inch barrel sub-compact pistol. This is particularly true for new shooters.

Good old-fashioned bullseye targets and the like are perfect for the job. All but those bordering on outrageous provide a fine aiming point and are easy to evaluate.

For new shooters, these classic pistol targets are ideal for refining a sight picture and learning where to hold. Furthermore, they're excellent for honing the mechanics of pistol shooting, such as stance, breath control, trigger control and grip.

Even for more seasoned handgunners, keeping a stack of bullseyes at hand is a good idea. You never know when you might need to brush up on your fundamentals.

Skill Evaluation

There are some guns meant for pleasure, and there are others that serve a specific purpose. Of the latter, you certainly should aim at a pistol target that forces you to use your handgun in practice as you would in real life. This means that, if you're a handgun hunter, you’ll need something much different than somebody whose main concern is becoming proficient with a concealed carry gun. Given that these are two of the more popular uses of handguns, we’ll zero in on them in particular.

In the case of a hunting pistol or revolver, photorealistic game targets with the vitals mapped out might prove a wise investment. Generally speaking, the guns used in this pursuit are or teeter on hand-cannon status, thus require a good deal of practice to get and keep on target. You owe it to the game to know you can put them down quickly and ethically.

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As far as self-defense, there are few pistol targets better than a silhouette. Simple and familiar, they provide the perfect training and evaluation tool to ensure you’re ready to defend your life. While plain old IPSC targets will do, you might consider the varieties that provide instant visual or auditory feedback. Reactive chip targets or steel silhouettes more than fit the bill by letting you know if you're hitting, even in rapid fire.

Dynamic Shooting

It doesn’t make much sense plugging away at a bullseye with a shotgun. Conversely, it isn't logical to confine your handgun shooting to static pistol targets alone. Next to good ol’ smoothbores, practical handgun shooting probably involves the most movement. After all, it’s a compact and mobile firearm that’s main asset is its nimbleness. To master this aspect of its purpose, you’d better practice both shooting on the move and engaging multiple targets.

Short of setting up a practical pistol stage, steel targets excel in this role for a number of reasons:

They’re easy to configure and reconfigure to create a course of fire tailored to the skills you’re honing that day.
Especially as a pistol target, good AR500 steel will last you nearly a lifetime – biding you take care of it.
They offer instant feedback – that sweet ping – of how you’re shooting.
There are many reactive models that either don’t require you to set them back up or sharpen precision shooting skills.

A couple of steel gongs, silhouettes, dueling trees and hostage targets are superlative pistol targets to become proficient at dynamic shooting.

So, we’ve covered the basics of what you're looking for in your pistol target. Now on to some top-notch options.

Best Handgun Targets

These are a number of old standbys – some with new twists – that still prove excellent options in advancing your handgun skills. So before you run out to buy that crazy, and most likely expensive, 3D bleeding zombie to bang away at, consider if one of these 5 classic pistol targets might serve you better. After all, most have been around for years and for good reason – they’ll make you a better handgun shooter.

USPSA/IPSC Practice Target (Paper)

USPA/IPSC paper targets are tough to beat when it comes to an affordable option for self-defense training. A stack of 100 of these familiar pistol targets run you about the same as a box of defensive ammunition. Depending on how much you shoot that should cover you for the better part of a year.

Solid head and torso geography are perfect for defensive training, and scoring boxes help you evaluate your shot placement. Additionally, these are truly dual-purpose shooting targets, not only sharpening self-defense marksmanship, but also competitive – if practical pistol is your thing.

Birchwood Casey Dirty Bird Silhouette

As time has gone on, Birchwood Casey has greatly improved sighting in with their easy-to-see Shoot-N-C line of shooting targets. Rifle marksmen, however, aren’t the only ones who benefit from the company’s splatter targets.

Bringing Birchwood Casey’s high-visibility technology to self-defense training, Dirty Bird Silhouettes are a downright amazing when working with your carry gun.

Logically, you might ask, “Why would you’d need a splatter target if you’re shooting between, say, 7 and 20 yards?” The same question has rattled through nearly every shooter's mind before hanging one up and cutting one lose. After a few rounds, it makes sense – big time.

With instant feedback of where you’re hitting, the Dirty Bird Silhouette is invaluable, particularly during rapid-fire segments. It’s a real gem on the Mozambique drill. Furthermore, the silhouette is gangbusters at close- to medium-range training with a carbine.

Shoot Steel AR400 Silhouette

If you have the space or live near public lands, a steel silhouette target is an ideal choice – especially if you’re a high-volume shooter. And few companies make them better than Shoot Steel.

Made from high-quality 1/4-inch AR400 steel plate, the pistol targets take a licking and last for years. Their longevity is great enough that, if properly cared for, they can prove as economical as paper targets.

Moreover, given the sweet ‘Ping’ they make each time they’re struck, steel silhouettes are an incredible training tool, giving instant feedback. Buy a thick enough one, they’re also top-notch rifle targets.

NRA 25 Yard Slow Fire Pistol Targets

You needn’t be a competitor to reap the benefits from these little gems. NRA 25-yard slow fire pistol targets are frustratingly simple, but when used along the lines of how they’re in a match, foster the utmost accuracy.

Learn to hold and hit a bullseye a little over 1-inch in diameter and you’ll go a long way in mastering your handgun. To boot, these pistol targets are as economical as they come – 100 of them cost less than a box of 9mm FMJ.

Challenge Targets Popper

A simple, satisfying and practical way to sharpen your handgun skills, poppers are must-haves for serious shooters. Among the more affordable options is Challenge Targets’.

The USA made AR500 steel pistol target stands 28-inches tall and is engineered for portability and durability. Easily set up in minutes, the target provides an ample, yet challenging 8-inch wide paddle.

Best of all, the popper doubles as both a static and reactive target. This is thanks to a removable lock pin. Leave it in and you'll never have to rest the target. Take it out and it topples over when hit. In either case the target provides both visual and auditory feedback, there’s perhaps no better or enjoyable target to send rounds at.

EZ2C Dot Torture

More than simple accuracy, wielding a handgun is a holistic discipline involving multiple facets. Draw, presentation, sight acquisition, trigger pull and follow through, among other things, require honing. Few single targets do it better than Dot Torture.

Many company have riffs on this classic target, but generally all do the same thing—take you through a progression of David Blinder’s original drill. EZ2C is our choice, given their targets are generally pretty affordable. Nice aspect to the target, it does equally well for target transition drills.

Sig Sauer Releases The P210 Carry

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February 14, 2022

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Sig Sauer has just announced the release of the P210 Carry pistol, an updated Sig P210 tailored for concealed carry.

It seems that updated versions of classic handgun designs have been in vogue lately. Besides the slew of modernized Hi Powers that have been recently released, Sig has just announced their own updated classic SAO pistol: the P210 Carry.

For those who aren’t familiar with it, the original Sig P210 was a military service pistol adopted by the Swiss army in the late 1940s, long before Sig ever merged with Sauer & Sohn. Based on the French 1935A, the P210 was a single-action only full-size handgun most commonly chambered for 9mm Parabellum. Generally regarded as a pistol with superb build quality, exceptional accuracy and an excellent trigger, the original P210 was produced since its inception up until the early 2000s. Production of the P210 resumed in 2017 when Sig Sauer of America announced that they were beginning domestic production of this classic pistol. The initial release included a standard model P210 reproduction as well as a target model, but now in 2022 Sig is adding one more variant to the lineup.

Sig’s Chief Marketing Officer Tom Taylor said this on the P210 Carry:

The SIG P210 is regarded as one of the most legendary, reliable, and accurate firearms in the world; the P210 CARRY pays homage to the foundational craftsmanship of its forerunner while maintaining the features, weight, and balance of an ideal carry pistol…

The features that distinguish the P210 Carry from the other new P210 models include its alloy frame that reduces its weight, shortened slide that makes for easier carrying and both front and rear slide serrations that assist with racking. The P210 Carry also includes checkered Hogue slim G10 grips, SIGLITE night sights and two 8-round magazines. The MSRP currently remains unknown.

For more on Sig Sauer, please visit sigsauer.com.

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Medium-Bore Match-Up: .38 Special vs 9mm

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