Hornady has just announced the release of CX bullets and pre-loaded ammunition, offering great expansion, penetration and aerodynamic performance in a wide variety of popular hunting calibers.
Some consider Hornady to be the acme of high-performance projectiles. Whether talking about defensive handgun ammo or premium hunting bullets, one of their products is bound to be acknowledged. Now the company has announced a new line of projectiles and ammunition called CX bullets, engineered to deliver outstanding terminal performance, a consistently stable ballistic coefficient and even reduce fouling. Available in several calibers as either reloading components or Hornady-loaded ammunition, CX bullets are now the most advanced projectile in their class.
The CX bullets are of a monolithic design and are made of copper alloy. The result is a projectile that penetrates deep, doesn’t disintegrate upon impact and delivers devastating effects on target. It uses the Hornady Heat Shield Tip used on many of their other bullets, which due to its heat-resistant polymer construction can maintain a high and consistent ballistic coefficient throughout the entire flight. This all comes together to make the new CX bullets both accurate and effective. Redesigned groove geometry results in less copper fouling as well.
CX bullets are available either in the form of projectiles as reloading components or as complete ammunition in Hornady’s Outfitter, Custom and Superformance lines. They offer one subsonic loading in 350 Legend as well. The biggest shakeup to Hornady’s existing lineup is the incorporation of CX bullets into all existing Outfitter line loads. Made with watertight nickel-plated cases, Outfitter ammo is available in 243 Winchester up to 375 H&H Magnum as well as most popular hunting cartridges that fall in between. Now with all calibers loaded with the high-performance CX bullets, the Outfitter line has whatever you need to take medium to large game. The monolithic copper construction means they are legal to hunt with in areas that require the use of lead-free projectiles too.
Whether you load your own ammo or buy it pre-manufactured, the new CX bullets are ready to deliver excellent performance across the board. Hornady claims that these new projectiles only feature a few incremental improvements, but hunters who are used to the old GMX bullets are bound to notice the greater terminal performance at longer ranges.
To see all available calibers and loadings of CX bullets, please visit hornady.com.
A versatile new holster made for today’s most popular CCW options, the Bianchi Shenandoah blends old and new materials and can be configured for either IWB or OWB carry.
Bianchi has been a big name in holsters for some time now, and while their classic leather holsters are timeless there are many concealed carriers in 2021 looking for something more modern. Que the Bianchi Shenandoah, their newest holster which blends leather and plastic to bring something with both timeless aesthetics and contemporary functionality.
Eric Gasvoda of the Safariland Group had this to say on Bianchi’s new holster:
The Shenandoah is a bold representation of the new direction of Bianchi Leather…Bianchi is staying true to its roots with the leather build of Shenandoah, but we’re integrating new materials and customizable elements that allow for an increase in functionality for those who want flexibility from their EDC holster.
The new holster was designed to accommodate the most popular micro-9s on the market today, including the Glock 43, Sig P365, S&W M&P Shield and the Springfield Hellcat. It’s also compatible with slide-mounted optics. The Shenandoah features a full-grain leather exterior, a suede-lined injection-molded interior and is available in either brown or black.
The biggest advantage of the Shenandoah holster is its versatility, capable of being configured for either OWB or IWB carry. Included with each holster there are OWB belt loops, IWB adapters, an IWB J-hook, a wedge device and a foam AIWB pad. With only a screwdriver, these different pieces can be swapped around into several configurations to match your ideal CCW method. And unlike on previous Bianchi holsters, the Shenandoah features a retention system as well. Bianchi calls it their “Pinch Retention Device” and it works with the simple click of a dial. Once holstered, the dial can be spun to engage the device with the gun’s trigger guard to provide extra retention and a secure fit.
Precision Retention Device dial.
The new Bianchi Shenandoah may not work with every gun or every CCW method, but it covers a lot more than most holsters do. This appears to be a good option for someone with a modern micro-9 who’s looking for a good do-it-all holster that provides a lot of options. MSRP is $78 and it’s available now.
One of the less orthodox methods of concealed carry, belly band holsters offer both distinct advantages and disadvantages that may or may not suit your lifestyle and body.
Comfortably carrying and concealing a pistol is more difficult than most people imagine. For most carry setups an individual must be wearing pants with belt loops, a gun belt, some form of holster and a cover garment. Besides the extra cost this gear incurs, it can be uncomfortable or impossible to wear in certain environments. If you live in a very hot climate or are engaging in physical activity like jogging, wearing jeans, a leather belt and an overshirt or jacket may just be downright unhealthy. Many of those who would like to stay strapped in situations like these have turned to belly band holsters, a retention system that as the name implies is a band stretched around one’s belly. Available in a variety of styles, materials and price points, there doesn’t seem to be a clear consensus on their viability. Some view them as a gimmick reserved for those who don’t know any better, while others see them as an ingenious solution to the issue of carrying while wearing less than ideal clothing. Before you pass judgment, there are a few things you should know before purchasing one or rejecting them entirely.
Belly Band Holster Pros
One of the greatest benefits of belly band holsters is that they don’t require any additional gear for them to work. Whether you typically carry inside the waistband, outside the waistband or in a should holster, they all require a pant with belt loops and a belt in order to function properly. The self-contained nature of belly band holsters eliminates this need, allowing the user to simply strap it to their body. Another advantage provided when they’re worn is that belly bands typically have enough space and pockets to carry much more than just a gun. Spare mags, tools, your wallet or your phone could also be carried in many of these setups.
When worn under one’s pants at beltline height they can also typically be concealed with just a t-shirt depending on the user’s gun and body type. This helps to make them a good option while doing physical activity that would otherwise make wearing a cover garment uncomfortable.
Many women also prefer belly band carry since they can be worn with a greater variety of clothing types.
Belly Band Holster Cons
While belly band holsters do make it easier to carry in hot weather or when doing strenuous activity, there are also some drawbacks. Just as socked feet tend to get hotter and sweatier than the rest of your body, the same is true for a torso covered by a belly band. The nature of these holsters requires them to be strapped relatively snugly to their wearer, resulting in the covered area getting more uncomfortable and wet in the heat than the rest of you.
Also, depending on the height and orientation that one wears a belly band, drawing can be difficult to accomplish when compared to a traditional setup. If worn higher than the beltline, clearing one’s garment can take extra time and effort. Also, cheaper belly band holsters typically aren’t fitted for a specific pistol, meaning the loose pocket intended for it may not support your gun well or provide for an easy draw.
Something else to keep in mind for those with a larger than average stomach circumference is that you may be limited in the ways you can utilize a belly band. Most nicer models come in a variety of sizes, but even the largest models weren’t designed to be worn high on the torso of those with large bellies. It doesn’t make these holsters impossible to wear, but you’ll likely be limited to positioning it low on your beltline.
Best Belly Band Holster Options
If a belly band holster still sounds like a good fit for your lifestyle, there are some things to look for when deciding on a model. Firstly, many cheaper options come with a generic-sized holster intended to fit “most firearms”. In these, retention is usually accomplished by incorporating some sort of thumb-break snap. These are less than ideal, as they still typically don’t retain the firearm as well as they should and add another step in the already decently arduous process of drawing from a belly band. If you’ve decided that a holster like this will suit you well it's worth investing in a model designed to specifically accommodate your gun. Whether that be in a fitted Kydex sheath or just a properly sized and shaped pocket, the holster should hold the gun snug enough to retain it but still allow for an easy one-handed draw. Here are three belly band holster options worth taking a look at:
Galco Underwraps 2.0 Galco’s belly band holster is similar to some of the simpler, cheaper designs but is more thought out and better made. Made of elastic nylon and leather, the Galco belly band is available in four sizes, two colors and are made to accommodate a wide variety of makes and models. These come with two leather pockets intended for the firearm of your choice as well as several nylon pockets for whatever else you may want to carry. MSRP is $64.
Crossbreed Modular Crossbreed’s belly band is a modular design, and it can be purchased either as a package or parted out separately. The reason it’s modular is that this style uses Kydex holsters that are specifically fitted to your model of gun. While this limits what kind of gun you can carry in it, it provides the best retention and draw of any of the styles listed. Holsters for different guns can be purchased individually and then installed on the modular belly band system. These can be ordered as either left or right-handed and have a choice of an extra mag carrier. MSRP for Crossbreed’s belly band starts at $69.95 and goes up depending on options.
Alien Gear Low-Pro The Alien Gear belly band is similar to the Crossbreed in that they both use Kydex holsters, but the Alien Gear model sits at a different angle. Designed for cross-draw, Alien Gear’s belly band is better suited for carrying above the beltline than other models are. For more of a torso-height carry, this will likely provide the best draw of the bunch. Like the Crossbreed, this belly band can be ordered for a variety of weapon models, different band sizes and a right or left-hand draw. MSRP is $87.88.
Parting Thought
Belly band holsters certainly aren’t the ideal method of concealed carry for most individuals, but there are certain people and situations in which they work extremely well. Whether your lifestyle dictates that this will be your primary way to conceal a firearm or you want one just for mowing the lawn, it's worth getting one that will be comfortable and support your specific gun well. Belly bands aren’t without their uses, and for some, they may be perfect, but for most people in most environments, a proper belt and holster setup will remain the superior alternative.
Springfield Armory is back in the bolt gun business with the 2020 Waypoint. It has the looks, but does the rifle perform?
The last bolt gun to carry the Springfield name was made over a century ago. And yes, we know there’s been a few changes in ownership of that particular brand in the past 117 trips around the sun, but it’s significant nonetheless. During a recent conversation with colleagues, one quipped that Springfield was continuing in its time-honored tradition of ripping off other companies’ bolt action designs—last time it was Mauser, this century, Remington gets the honor. A little harsh, perhaps.
Photo: Kenda Lenseigne and Brian Butler
There are no shortage of outfits making R700 pattern actions these days, almost all of which improve on the original and can be used to create a rifle to your exact specification, and with the advent of pre-fit barrels and drop-in stocks, bolt guns are becoming easy to work on. Which begs the question of why would anyone buy when they could build? Springfield’s answer to this is pretty simple: cost. With the 2020, they’re delivering an off-the-shelf rifle with custom features for less than the average consumer can buy the individual components that go to make it. And they’re backing it with full factory support and a .75 MOA accuracy guarantee. For all but the most hard core of DIYers, that’s pretty hard to beat.
Model 2020 Action
At the heart of the rifle is its action, and this one follows the R700 footprint, but with a few tweaks to make it stiffer and easier to use. For example, the front receiver ring incorporates additional material for a little more rigidity and features an extra gas port on the left side in order to mitigate the effects of a case head separation. The Waypoint’s recoil lug is machined as an integral part of the action, with no separate piece of stamped sheet steel, sandwiched between the barrel shoulder and action, as in the original. Rather than rely on Remington’s thin bolt stop in the left raceway, there’s a meatier version which is easier to access on the side of the rear receiver and looks like it’s been borrowed from Tikka.
While the R700 relies on a fairly abrupt cam path to provide primary extraction, the bolt handle on the Waypoint engages a much gentler profile, which should limit chances for sticky spent cases to get hung up and reduce the effort needed to pop them free. That bolt handle, by the way, is mortised all the way through the bolt body, rather than being brazed to the outside, so in the event of you needing to apply greater force than usual, it’s not going to break off. At its other end is an oversized knob, which is both easy to grab with gloved hands and threaded so that it can be swapped for a replacement, should you not care for its contours or material.
Photo: Kenda Lenseigne and Brian Butler
The bolt itself is spirally fluted to reduce drag, which is further reduced by polishing, and finally, nitride treating. It feels like a regular 700 that’s had a couple of hours with a Flitz cloth, and it glides in raceways formed by an EDM machine, which, unlike a R700 are cut after heat treatment—one of the reasons for the cottage industry of blueprinting actions is that they tend to warp in the heat-treat oven. The bolt face has a Sako-style extractor let into its right lug, rather than the usual spring clip; another custom touch included in the price tag. Releasing the striker is taken care of by a TriggerTech adjustable trigger, which we dialed down to 3.1 pounds for a very crisp single-stage break with about 1/16 inch of travel, measured from the tip of the blade.
Waypoint Stock
A carbon-fiber stock from AG Composites is part of the package, finished in gray and brown camo and inlet for AICS pattern bottom metal. Five flush cups give plenty of options for sling mounting, and if you want more, there’s four M-lok slots at the 6 o’clock position on the forend to add your own. We used them to add an adapter for the Spartan Precision bipod system, which has become a staple of our hunts, but Pic rails and other sundries can be bolted up to your heart’s content. An adjustable cheek riser adds around 9 ounces to the weight tally, but it’s worth it to be able to fit the gun to your physique. We wish the maker had included a recess for the bolt—as it stands, you’ll need to remove the cheekpiece in order to run a cleaning rod through the bore—but this is a minor complaint. A Pachmayr recoil pad caps off the butt, and there’s room for spacers should you want to extend the 13.5-inch LOP.
The 2020's Barrel
The Waypoint’s barrel is made by BSF and while it looks carbon-wrapped, it actually features a carbon sleeve slid over a conventional, button rifled stainless tube, which is tensioned by means of a nut which engages 5/8-24 threads at the muzzle. Tensioned barrels are nothing new, and claim to offer greater consistency as things heat up—we didn’t do any 6.5 mag dumps as part of our testing, but the very first group we shot came in at 0.65 inch, and things stayed right around the half-inch mark after that using Hornady ELD-M and ELD-X bullets. A condition of the mountain goat cull hunt we took the rifle on was the use of non-lead bullets, so a handload using Barnes 127-grain LRX bullets was thrown together at the last minute, and we experienced a little vertical stringing, which usually indicates a need to be driven faster. Due to time constraints, we never quite got that hammered out, but a group of 2.25 inches at 300 yards was good enough for our purposes. Bottom line: The Waypoint can shoot.
Photo: Kenda Lenseigne and Brian Butler
Final Thoughts
There are a lot of good rifles in the marketplace right now, and for a company with no history of making bolt guns (at least, not in the past century) to jump in with both feet is a pretty ballsy move. Fortunately, the product they chose to introduce is pretty damn good, and when you add up the cost of a carbon-fiber stock, aftermarket trigger, sight bases, trick barrel and custom action, it becomes an even more attractive proposition.
Mossberg’s new MC2sc is the latest optics-ready micro-compact 9mm carry pistol, and its features make it a serious contender in the ongoing battle for the best micro-9.
When a new handgun is released in the current CCW market, it doesn't take an oracle to know that it’s likely a polymer-framed, micro-compact, striker-fired 9mm with a double-stack magazine and an optics-ready slide. While it’s true that the new MC2sc falls into this category as well, Mossberg managed to incorporate some features that still make this a fresh design that’s worth considering for anyone in the market for a modern carry pistol.
The original MC1sc was designed to compete with the Glock 43, resulting in both pistols using single-stack magazines of similar capacities. The MC2c came later in response to the influx of high-capacity micro-9s and had a larger magazine but a proportionally larger frame as well. While neither pistol came to dominate the contemporary CCW market, the new MC2sc has what it takes to be a serious contender. In terms of size, it falls squarely between the Springfield Hellcat and the Sig P365XL, and it comes from the factory with an optics-ready slide and both flush-fit and extended magazines. Its flush-fit mags hold 11 rounds of ammo and the extended can hold 14, again putting the MC2sc in between the Hellcat and P365XL in terms of capacity. Other features include an accessory rail and front and back slide serrations.
The Mossberg MC2sc has a few different configurations available. It can be had either with or without a manual cross-bolt safety, and the sights can either be standard white 3-dot sights or TRUGLO tritium night sights. Every MC2sc model comes with an optics-ready slide, however, and that’s one of this gun’s most notable features. While most carry pistols in this form factor come optics-ready in 2021, what’s unique about the MC2sc is that Mossberg managed to achieve total co-witness when using an optic with standard-height iron sights. Achieved by mounting the optic lower than on any other pistol, the iron sights are completely visible and usable while looking through a red dot’s viewing window. The MC2sc uses a Shield RSMC optic footprint and is ready to mount a wide variety of compatible optics.
The new Mossberg MC2sc has managed to squeeze in just enough new features and upgrades to make this pistol worth considering for those who were in the market for a similar gun. Its small size, optics-ready capability and relatively high capacity are exactly what the contemporary CCW market is looking for, and as long as there are decent holster options available the MC2sc will likely be one of the next popular carry gun choices. The standard-sighted versions all have an MSRP of $556 and the night-sighted model is listed at $662.
Kalashnikov USA’s AK-103 clone, the KR-103, is now available with a side-folding stock making it more true to the original design. New guns and ammo teased as well.
Kalashnikov USA is what many consider to be the leading U.S. manufacturer of AK-type rifles. Based out of Florida, they’ve been working to create high-quality semi-auto clones of modern Russian small arms since the release of their KS-12 shotgun in 2017. The company prides itself on having superior quality control over its competitors, and they’ve sacrificed being the first to bring certain products to market in favor of only releasing them once they’ve ensured they’re ready for customer hands.
The first rifle caliber weapon KUSA released was the KR-103, a semi-auto clone of the Russian AK-103. Clone is a strong word, however, and many sticklers for detail had complained that the original KR-103 featured a fixed-stock rear trunnion rather than the unique side-folder mechanism present on genuine 100 Series AK rifles. The standard KR-103 has been on the market long enough to garner a good reputation, and now KUSA has just released the updated KR-103 SFS side-folder model. Suddenly listed for sale on their website without warning on Friday the 29th, they were sold out before the news had finished spreading. While KUSA is not known for having a very high production volume, they have remained consistent and those interested in one of their AK-103 clones can expect them to be restocked soon enough.
KUSA KR-103 SFS AK-103 Clone.
Clone-Accurate
For those not overly familiar with the expansive world of Kalashnikov variants, the AK-100 Series of rifles and carbines was developed in 1994 as a further modernization of the already modernized AK-74M. The series took features from the AK-74M such as side-folding stocks and added them to rifles and carbines chambered for cartridges besides 5.45×39, namely 7.62×39 and 5.56 NATO. The AK-103 that the KR-103 is inspired by is the rifle-length variant chambered for 7.62×39. Some other clone-accurate features included on KUSA’s AK-103 are the side optic rail and 74-style muzzle device. The folding stock also uses the correct 5.5mm pin, allowing for the installation of other stocks designed for side-folder trunnions such as classic metal triangle stocks or the ZenitCo PT-1. The KR-103 barrel is chrome-lined and cold hammer forged, and the trunnion is forged as well.
KUSA AK-103 with stock folder.
More To Come
Shortly after the KR-103 SFS’s release, KUSA teased even more upcoming AK goodness on their social media. In the video, an employee can be seen patriotically spraying a select-fire sample of one of their new 103s, but it’s what’s behind him that caught most peoples’ eye. Sitting on the bench was a box of KUSA-branded 7.62×39 ammo as well as a short-barreled AK-104 clone. This aligns with promises made by KUSA at the 2020 SHOT Show where they announced their intentions to release clones of every AK in the 100 series, including guns chambered in 5.56 and 5.45. It’s not known when the new guns or ammo will hit the market, but it’s nice to see these projects are still in the works.
A founding father celebrating his freedom. Notice the KUSA ammo box and AK-104 clone leaning against the wall.
This new rifle is as close to a genuine Russian AK-103 that you can currently get in the States, and the addition of a side-folding stock is sure to please those seeking attention to detail or just raw functionality. Each KR-103 SFS includes a cleaning rod and one KUSA-made magazine and has an MSRP of $1,399.
Two new professional-grade AR-style rifles have just been released by FN America, the FN 15 TAC3 and TAC3 Duty, and they’re light, rugged and easily configurable.
FN America has just released two new modern sporting rifles, the FN 15 TAC3 and the TAC3 duty. Built tough for professional use and available in multiple setups, they come with several useful upgrades right out of the box and are ready to be configured to suit your exact needs.
FN 15 TAC3 Duty.
Chris Cole of FN America had this to say about the new rifles:
The modern sporting rifle category is the most popular segment of our market. It serves consumers looking for a rifle for shooting sports, hunting, home defense, and general use on the range…These customers, whether new to MSRs or experienced, now have access to a professional quality line of rifles with the FN 15 TAC3 and TAC3 Duty. If you're in the market for an MSR that is easily configurable to your needs, delivers superior accuracy, and is highly reliable, then the FN 15 TAC3 is for you.
FN 15 TAC3.
The TAC3 and TAC3 Duty have much in common, but there are differences as well. Both rifles feature a 16-inch government profile barrel, made of FN’s proprietary steel and chrome-lined for extra longevity. Both rifles also include high-quality MIL-SPEC bolt carrier groups and use mid-length gas systems with an H buffer for improved reliability. They also both include Radian ambidextrous charging handles and safety selectors.
The first difference between the TAC3 and TAC3 duty is the rail system. Both barrels are fully free-floated, but the standard TAC3 uses a Hodge Defense rail with anti-rotation technology for the most rigid lockup possible. The TAC3 Duty’s rail system prioritizes weight over rigidity, making it the rifle a half-pound lighter than the standard TAC3. Both models are available with a standard black finish, but the standard TAC3 can also be Cerakoted gray or FDE.
FN 15 TAC3 Gray Cerakote.
Both new rifles are no-frills, streamlined carbines ready for serious use. The TAC3 Duty has an MSRP of $1,599 and the TAC3 comes in at $1,729. Either would be a fine choice for someone in the market for a high-quality AR-style rifle.
Unique in both concept and design, the Czech vz. 61 Skorpion machine pistol has won hearts on both sides of the law since its inception.
The vz. 61 Skorpion (or Škorpion in Czech) is what happens when compactness takes precedence in a personal defense weapon. Intended to be carried more than shot, the Skorpion was Socialist Czechoslovakia’s answer to the issue of arming non-combat-oriented troops. For as long as armies have been fighting with firearms, it’s been understood that there is little utility in issuing a rifle to a soldier who is not expected to fight with it. Rather than waste an expensive rifle and burden the troop with a cumbersome weapon, pistols were traditionally used to arm individuals who needed armament purely as a status symbol or for emergencies. From officers to vehicle crews, handguns were the norm for quite some time. Since at least the First World War, however, armies have experimented with weapons designed to bridge the gap in firepower between a traditional pistol and a carbine or submachine gun. From long-barreled and stocked Artillery Lugers to the FN P90, weapons of this class have come to be known as personal defense weapons or PDWs, and their utility extends beyond military service.
Like many other PDWs, the Skorpion may have entered production as a last-ditch emergency weapon for vehicle crews, but it only truly found its stride doing work of a rougher nature. Its relatively high firepower for its concealable and compact nature made it popular with everyone from special military and police units to terrorists and criminals alike around the globe. Its striking visual appearance that’s befitting to its name made the Skorpion an instant icon that’s been featured in dozens of films and games, solidifying its place in the public consciousness. Now as pistol caliber carbines and other PDWs gain popularity in the States, semi-auto pistol Skorpion variants are still a surprisingly accessible option to consider.
The Skorpion is a Czech gun through and through. It was designed by Miroslav Rybář in 1959 and officially adopted by the Czechoslovak army in 1961. A key factor in the Skorpion’s compactness is its use of a “telescoping bolt”, a design feature that moves the breechface and chamber backward which allows for a shorter bolt that still has enough mass to function. While the invention of this is often attributed to the Israeli Uzi submachine gun that was invented in 1950, the concept was actually born at the same factory as the Skorpion in the form of the vz. 23 a few years earlier. While the vz. 23 and vz. 61 had different lead designers, the telescoping bolt concept was obviously already in-house when it came time to create the Skorpion.
Widely issued to officers, vehicle crews and special forces for decades after its adoption, the Skorpion is still in Czech army reserves and has remained extremely popular around the world. Initially designed for security forces, its adoption by the Czechoslovak army as a PDW was merely the afterthought that launched it into mass production and subsequent global fame. Chambered for the extremely light recoiling .32 ACP cartridge, the Skorpion is a direct blowback, closed-bolt machine pistol. It has an over-folding wire stock and feeds from 10 and 20 round magazines and fires at a rate of about 850 rounds per minute in full auto. Due to its straight blowback design, the Skorpion would naturally have a much higher fire rate than it does if it weren’t for its clever rate reducing mechanism neatly stowed in the pistol grip.
Every feature of the Skorpion was designed to prioritize compactness. From its nub-like charging handles to its magazine capacity and stock, the vz. 61 really is in a class of its own, managing to be only barely larger than a traditional service pistol while offering similar firepower to an SMG. This focus on size was because the Skorpion was intended to be carried in a belt holster. Coming in at under three pounds and just over 10 inches long when folded, the Skorpion can be carried in the holster loaded when using a 10-round magazine (presumably the only reason why these magazines were created). Separate belt pouches carry spare 20-round mags. This setup isn’t as well known as the gun itself, as most of the Skorpion’s provenance comes from use not with Czech government forces but from organized criminals and political terrorists.
One Popular Piece
The Skorpion’s compactness was emphasized so it would be comfortable to carry and unobtrusive in confined spaces, but the same features lend themselves to concealability as well. It's no surprise then that the Skorpion would find itself to be a popular choice among members of society who value that sort of thing in a machine pistol. For those that have access to them, Skorpions remain a very popular choice among organized criminals and terrorists, but also with certain smaller countries’ police and clandestine units.
The first time any Americans likely encountered the Skorpion was in Vietnam where they were used by both guerrillas and the NVA, with at least one documented example having been captured during the sapper attack on Ubon airbase in Thailand in 1969. Skorpions were also used by the East German NVA, all sides of the Yugoslav wars and even supposedly by some Soviet Spetsnaz units. A dead North Korean spy was also found with one in 1998.
Dead Vietnamese sapper with vz. 61, Ubon Airbase Thailand, 1969. Photo: Nam-Valka.cz.
One of the most famous incidents involving a Skorpion was the 1978 kidnapping and execution of Aldo Moro by Italian communists, and Skorpions were also prominently featured in the conflicts of Northern Ireland. It is still one of the more common illegal weapons found in criminal hands throughout Europe, and they frequently surface during police raids where they are then often prominently displayed in the media. Their favorability with groups like this combined with their striking visual appearance has also resulted in Skorpions being a common sight in movies, television and games, helping to further worsen their notoriety with the public.
Leonardo DiCaprio in Body Of Lies aiming his vz. 61. Photo: IMFDB.
Variants
There have been a few iterations of the Skorpion over the years, but none have excelled at their role quite like the original. The Skorpion shines as a low recoiling PDW with very controllable full-auto, and much of that magic is lost when chambered for larger calibers. In 1982 the Czechoslovak army adopted the Soviet 9x18mm cartridge and subsequently rechambered the Skorpion for it, eventually making .380 ACP and 9x19mm export variants as well. The easiest way to tell the models apart is their magazine, as original Skorpions require curved mags to accommodate the semi-rimmed .32 ACP cartridge. All other chamberings use straight magazines.
9x18mm Makarov Skorpion pistol with threaded barrel. Photo: CzechPoint-USA.
One variant that is as good as the original is the licensed Yugoslavian M84 clone made by Zastava. This is the version that obviously saw the most use during the Balkan conflicts and is almost as prolific as original Czech models are. Many Skorpion users throughout history also obtained threaded barrels for use with suppressors, as both the cartridge and the platform suppress very well.
Skorpions In America
Unfortunately, the Skorpion is a design that shines the brightest in its original select-fire configuration—something that most law-abiding American gun owners will never be able to obtain. There are very few, if any, pre-86 registered and fully transferable Skorpion machineguns on the market, meaning to legally own one you essentially need to be a Class 3 SOT. That being said, many people still find the semi-auto pistols you can buy to be worthwhile range toys and plinkers with a lot of style and interesting history.
Semi-auto Skorpion pistols are still in production and can be purchased new for about $750 as of writing this, distributed by CzechPoint USA and imported from the original manufacturers in the Czech Republic. The only real differences between the civilian version and the original are the lack of a full-auto FCG, the now-useless rate reducer and the rear receiver dovetail mount for the stock. They are made using a combination of original surplus and new parts and are available in all three original calibers, but it’s worth noting that the .32 ACP version can have ammo sensitivity issues. The importer recommends only using European C.I.P. spec ammo with them for the best results.
The abundance of parts kits that have been imported also means that amateur and professional-built Skorpions are out there as well. The parts kits are still common and inexpensive, but unfortunately the lack of a good source for barrels or receivers limits their viability. With the new realities of 3D printing though, all it would take is a steady supply of barrels for these to be very accessible build kits for Americans to play with.
Vz. 61 parts kit build using a 3D printed receiver with pistol brace adaptor. Photo: Reddit user TheBlaster9001
Ultimately, in their typical American stock-less and semi-auto guise, Skorpions have more novelty than utility. That doesn’t mean that one couldn’t effectively be used for self-defense, but it likely won’t fare you any better than a normal full-sized handgun would. Hopefully barrels and receivers become available enough for a surge of Americans to build these plentiful kits out for fun, but in the meantime, they’ll remain somewhat niche range toys for those who appreciate their history and aesthetics.
The newly released Mossberg 590S series takes a proven design and makes it even better, with four new models now capable of reliably feeding mini shells.
The Mossberg 590 was already an improvement upon the classic and well-proven Mossberg 500. With a redesigned magazine tube, the 590 was easier to maintain and modify than its predecessor, but it still typically had trouble reliably feeding 12-gauge mini shells. Now in the biggest update the 590 line has seen since the release of the Shockwave, the new Mossberg 590S will eat any flavor of 12-gauge you can feed it. Available in four configurations, the Mossberg 590S is a direct upgrade over previous generations and features a distinct new capability that opens up a lot of doors.
Mossberg 590S, 18.5-inch model.
The Changes
If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Mossberg appears to have agreed with this principle of design while reworking the 590, as most of its well-proven design remained the same in the new Mossberg 590S. The only “problem” worth addressing was the design’s inability to reliably feed mini shells—something that virtually no pump-action or automatic shotgun has been able to do consistently. To remedy this, all that needed changing on the 590S were its elevator and bolt slide. An energy-absorbing buffer was also added. The end result is a shotgun that feeds 2.75 and 3-inch shells just as reliably as before, but now with the ability to add 1.75-inch shells to the mix. Mossberg claims that the 590S will run reliably with a mix of ammo in any order, and varying load types or shell lengths will not cause problems. If it’s a 12-gauge round it can be stuffed in the tube, pumped into the chamber and fired without issue.
This added level of versatility on the Mossberg 590S may not be appreciated by everyone, but the changes bring no downsides and open the door to higher capacity pump-actions for those willing to sacrifice on power. Whether it’s just for fun at the range or serious defensive use, loading a 590S entirely with 1.75-inch shells gives roughly 40-50% more capacity than when loaded with standard length ammo.
Mossberg 590S Shockwave, 14.375-inch model.
The Options
The Mossberg 590S is available in four configurations. The most standard model has an 18.5-inch barrel and its magazine tube can hold six 2.75-inch shells. The more advanced model sports a 20-inch barrel and a longer mag tube that can hold eight standard shells. It also features ghost ring sights, an AccuChoke and an M-LOK forend. All other models have simple bead sights and a plain cylinder bore choke. The final 590S variant is the Shockwave, Mossberg’s short-barreled firearm that skirts the NFA by having a long enough overall length. It’s available in either a shorter or longer configuration and can hold either five or six standard shells in its tube, respectively. All Mossberg 590S shotguns have the same matte blue finish.
Mossberg 590S, 20-inch model.
This is a solid upgrade to an already great design, and whether you plan on using many mini shells or not it doesn’t hurt to have the option. The larger of the two 590S Shockwaves can fit 9 + 1 mini shells in it, something which very well may be the next popular truck gun setup. The MSRPs for the new Mossberg 590S shotguns are $708 for the 20-inch model and $605 for all the rest.
WOOX precision rifle stocks are known for combining functionality with class, and their new Cobra thumbhole stock is no different.
WOOX precision rifle stocks use a combination of premium wood and machined aluminum to improve your rifle’s ergonomics, accuracy and aesthetics with one simple upgrade. Their three previous models had varying levels of adjustability, but all used traditional profile rifle stocks. Now WOOX’s newest option, the Cobra, brings a thumbhole option to their line of precision rifle stocks that was designed specifically for precision shooters and long-range hunters. Compatible with several models of popular bolt actions plus the Ruger 10/22, the WOOX Cobra is a fine addition to their lineup of precision rifle stocks.
The WOOX Advantage
Installing a WOOX precision rifle stock is as simple as dropping in the action, as no bedding or extra pillars are required to achieve its high potential for accuracy. Once your rifle of choice has been installed into the Cobra Precision Stock, several things happen to help improve accuracy. Firstly, the Cobra enables you to adjust both the length of pull and the cheek riser height to achieve a perfect fit with the shooter. The improved ergonomics should benefit practical accuracy as well as dampen the recoil impulse. The rifle’s mechanical accuracy should also be improved by the Cobra’s ability to free float the barrel, and front and rear rail segments for monopods or bipods should help make the shot easier as well.
Cobra Options
Cobra precision rifle stocks are available for several different rifle models and in two different kinds of wood. Custom made using “old world” Italian and American craftsmanship, the Cobra can be ordered for use with several kinds of Remington 700, Savage 110, Tikka T3, Sauer 100, Howa 1500 and the Ruger 10/22. The wood can either be American walnut or “Premium Tiger Wood” laminate, and the chassis can be ordered in either a left or right hand configuration.
The new WOOX Cobra precision rifle stocks have MSRPs of $699 for the American walnut version and $749 for the “Tiger Wood” model. They are available now but have an estimated lead time of two weeks due to their custom nature.
Often overlooked, the SVT-40 was one of the world’s first battle rifles and helped prove the concept of full-power self-loading rifles.
When one thinks of battle rifles, odds are that it’s the guns of NATO-aligned countries that come to mind. Whether that be the M14, the FAL or the H&K G3, full-power battle rifles have come to define the Cold War weapons used by Western powers after WWII. Considering how many of these rifles were made and proliferated, it’s understandable as to why, but it also results in some lesser-known battle rifles being criminally overlooked.
The Soviet-made Self-loading Tokarev Rifle of 1940, or SVT-40, is one such example. Despite nearly two million produced and their extensive use in the Second World War, the SVT-40 remains to most a historical oddity that’s overshadowed by both Western battle rifles as well as other Soviet-made small arms that saw higher volumes of production. None of this changes the fact that the SVT-40 was a revolutionary design at its time of inception, helping to trailblaze the battle rifle concept that would explode outside of Russia in the years to come.
The road that led to the Soviets’ adoption of the SVT-40 was long, winding and filled with characters. While the USSR is not famous in the West for its technological ingenuity, the nation still managed to innovate despite its economic handicap. This is especially true when it comes to small arms design, where ideas like the battle rifle and the intermediate caliber assault rifle were explored well before they became NATO standards.
Battle rifles are best defined as self-loading rifles chambered for full-power cartridges—a concept that was still novel in the aftermath of WWI. Several countries were interested in the concept and began working on developing their own, but only a couple were dedicated enough to see their attempts come to fruition. One was America with their adoption of the M1 Garand, and the other was the USSR when they adopted the AVS-36.
The timelines of American and Soviet attempts to create a successful self-loading rifle align closer than one might guess. Both countries began work in the early 1930s and had formally trialed and adopted a rifle by 1936. Both required further development before the designs were perfected by around 1940. The Garand’s development was much less tumultuous than the Russian’s attempt, however. The AVS-36 was designed by Sergei Simonov, and despite being very outwardly similar to the later SVT it utilized a different action and was capable of both semi and fully automatic fire. Problems experienced in the field resulted in a second round of trials, however, and this time it was the SVT-38 that was deemed the winner.
Designed by Fedor Tokarev of TT-33 fame, the SVT-38 would stay in service until the updated SVT-40 model replaced it. Between 1938 and 1940, the Soviet political elite was embroiled in a debate over whether it would be Simonov’s or Tokarev’s rifle that would enter full-scale production, a debate that was ended with politics rather than merit. While the AVS and SVT were both good rifles with room for improvement, it was ultimately Tokarev’s close personal relationship to Stalin that would result in the victory of his design. Stalin’s favor of the SVT-38 resulted in the abandonment of Simonov’s design and full-scale production of the now new and improved SVT-40. The updated design was now simpler to manufacture, lighter and featured several small quality of life improvements for its user.
The Soviets intended to equip the entirety of their armed forces with this revolutionary new rifle, but the German invasion of 1941 prevented this from happening. While the Americans were able to continue to safely produce and issue Garand rifles, the Soviets were forced to scale back SVT-40 production to produce larger numbers of cheaper guns like Mosin Nagants, PPSh-41s and DP-27s.
The SVT-40 As A Battle Rifle
In terms of its form, the SVT-40 is most similar to the FN-49 and M14 battle rifles that would come much later. It uses a traditional wooden rifle stock without a pistol grip and is fed by 10-round detachable box magazines. Chambered for the venerable 7.62x54R cartridge that’s been used in Russia since before the Soviet Union, the SVT-40 functions using a short-stroke gas piston and a tilting bolt action. This system would go on to influence the German Gewehr 43 and likely the FN-49 as well.
Compared to its contemporary, the M1 Garand, the SVT-40 was lighter and held two more rounds of ammunition in the magazine. The Garand, however, had a potential for faster reloads with a skilled user and was chambered for a slightly more powerful cartridge. Despite the SVT having what we would think of as modern detachable magazines, spare mags were not issued like they are with modern weapons. The SVT was to typically be reloaded from the top by two Mosin Nagant 5-round stripper clips, and inserting a new magazine was reserved for emergency situations for those lucky enough to have a spare. Ultimately, both guns were excellent early battle rifles that were loved by those who used them.
It is worth noting that the SVT-40 was more complicated to maintain and operate than the bolt-action Mosins of old, and less-trained Soviet conscripts did sometimes complain about the design, but the qualities of the rifle became apparent in the hands of better-trained troops. Whether that be Soviet marines or the Germans and Finns who captured thousands of them in the early days of the war, those who knew how to put the SVT-40 to good use appreciated them very much.
Polish Anders' Army troops with an SVT 40 in 1942. Photo: Wikipedia
Another appreciated feature of the SVT 40 in the field was its relatively light recoil impulse for the round it was chambered for. This was mostly due to its muzzle brake which very effectively mitigated recoil despite the rifle’s light weight of 8.5 pounds unloaded. They later switched to a simpler, two vent hole muzzle brake design that was less effective but faster to produce.
The rifle’s low recoil led its designers to believe it would be an effective automatic rifle as well, leading to the development of the select-fire AVT-40. Unfortunately, the design proved to be too fragile to handle sustained fire and the project was abandoned shortly after it began. Those AVT-40s that did make it into the field were prohibited from using the automatic fire mode as testing revealed that it shortened the lifespan of the gun too significantly. There was also a short-barreled carbine version of the SVT-40 that was briefly produced as well.
A more prominent version of the SVT was its sniper variant, the failure of which was an even greater disappointment than the attempt to make an automatic rifle. Issues with the stock material, stock fitment and barrel resulted in erratic cold-bore shot placement and too much shot dispersion after sustained fire—neither of which being acceptable qualities of a scoped precision rifle, the SVT-40 sniper concept was also abandoned by 1942. Now, with its dreams of being a sniper or an automatic rifle having been thoroughly crushed, the SVT-40 had finally found its identity as an infantry battle rifle. This allowed its producers at both Tula and Izhevsk to simplify manufacturing by no longer milling its scope rails. The presence of these rails in the receiver is one way to help date an SVT.
Unfortunately, the SVT-40 is on the rarer side of WWII surplus in the States. Some Finnish-captured examples were imported in the 1950s, and more were brought in from Russia in the 90s. A mutual agreement between Russia and America prohibited the further importation of most military arms, resulting in the end of Russian SVT, SVD, SKS and other military rifle imports. The Mosin Nagant was a notable exception to this rule, partially explaining why the rifle is so much more abundant in the U.S. than other Russian small arms (besides the fact that many more Mosins were produced in total). Canada had no such agreement with Russia, resulting in many more SVTs ending up there than the U.S.
Due to their high cost, rarity and perceived fragility, most American SVT-40 owners do not shoot them as often as they deserve to be. Many who have shot one reportedly enjoy them even more than M1 Garands, so it’s a shame that these weren’t imported in greater numbers. If priced like they were in Canada, many more Americans would undoubtedly enjoy shooting these classic Soviet battle rifles. They have a lot going for them besides historical provenance and they can definitely go through a spam can of 7.62x54R faster than a Mosin.
As thermal imaging devices grow in popularity and become more mainstream, iRayUSA is one of the companies working to let you own the night better than ever with their thermal weapon sights and monoculars.
Hunting hogs and tactical preparedness are both growing hobbies in the United States, and they both require one to own expensive equipment that lets you see in the dark. Whether it be night vision or thermal, weapon sights or monoculars, many Americans are currently looking to add this high-tech gear to their collection of kit. iRayUSA is a newer company in the thermal imaging device game, but they’re drawing on years of prior experience with selling, developing and using thermal weapon sights and monoculars. Currently offering four different thermal weapon sights, two thermal monoculars and a modular laser rangefinder, iRayUSA have what it takes to let you own the night.
RICO Mk1 384.
Thermal Weapon Sights
The RICO is iRayUSA’s flagship thermal weapon sight series with three different models available: the RICO Bravo, the RICO Mk1 384 and the RICO Mk1 640. The Bravo is the smallest and cheapest option, while the Mk1 640 has the largest display of the three and a proportionally larger price tag. The RICO series of thermal weapon sights aim to provide the highest resolution image possible while still being lightweight and easy to use. Between the RICO sights’ processor, AMOLED HD display and advanced image correction algorithms, they promise to provide very high-resolution images. Both still images and video can be captured and saved to the RICOs’ internal memory, and the Mk1 models can be actively used for at least 6 hours thanks to their efficient lithium-ion battery packs.
The relatively small and light Bravo model is ideal for AR-style rifles, while their BOLT TL35 thermal weapon sight was designed for use on bolt actions.
RICO BRAVO 384.
Thermal Monoculars
Both of iRayUSA’s thermal monocular options were designed to function both as handheld and helmet-mounted imaging devices. Available with either 19mm or 25mm displays, these thermal monoculars are ideal for both hunters looking for a small, pocketable tool as well as the tactically inclined in search of something to mount to their helmet. Both models feature two mounting points to provide plenty of options for compatible helmet mounts. They can be powered by either small, internally stored batteries for short-term use or wired to an external USB battery for prolonged operations up to 18 hours.
MINI MH25 thermal monocular.
Whether you’re looking to bag hogs as efficiently as possible or just want to LARP as Sam Fisher, iRayUSA is worth checking out. MSRPs of listed products range from $2,999 to $5,999 and all include a 5-year warranty with a 5-day repair guarantee.
Springfield Armory has brought JMB’s iconic 9mm Hi-Power pistol back with their new SA-35, featuring some subtle improvements over the original design.
The Hi-Power, or P-35, is one of the world’s most iconic handguns. While it never achieved the popularity stateside that it did elsewhere, since its release pistol cognoscenti have recognized its qualities and the role that it played in modern handgun development. New models have unfortunately been missing from the American market for several years, and those in search of a Hi-Power have been stuck considering expensive original models, beat-up surplus or foreign-made clones of questionable quality. Now, thanks to Springfield Armory, there’s a new Hi-Power option on the table—the SA-35.
Classic Style
In a world of black plastic guns, it's refreshing to see some new wood and steel for sale. Even most 1911s sold these days are more “tactical” than classic, but Springfield decided to stick to the BHP’s roots when they designed the SA-35. Sporting checkered walnut grips and a matte blued finish, Springfield’s new Hi-Power harkens back to the era of the man who designed it. Most of the details on the SA-35 are true to the original as well, including its single-action trigger, 9mm chambering and the “no-bite” rounded military-style hammer. While they mostly stayed true to the original, Springfield has also included some modern improvements and upgrades on the SA-35.
Better Than Ever
The SA-35 is the first American-made Hi-Power, so it's only natural that it would be the best one. The first modern improvements found on the SA-35 start during the manufacturing process, where they are built using precision CNC machined, forged steel components. This gives the gun extremely tight tolerances and should contribute to its already excellent accuracy provided by the cold hammer-forged barrel. All parts are now also heat-treated using modern techniques, meaning the SA-35 should be more resilient than any previous iterations of the design.
Another significant departure from the original P-35 is the lack of a magazine disconnect safety, something which should be appreciated by most fans of the design. An otherwise wonderful pistol, Hi-Powers always suffered from less-than-ideal triggers and an inability to freely drop magazines, both things that are remedied by the removal of the disconnect safety. Originally included to prevent conscripts from injuring themselves while cleaning their guns, omitting this device enables the SA-35 to have a better trigger, faster reloads and a gun that can still go bang if the magazine gets lost. Speaking of the magazine, the SA-35 includes a single flush-fitting 15-round mag. That’s two more rounds of 9mm than what the original revolutionary Hi-Power mag held, but the SA-35 is still compatible with original 13-rounders too.
Other subtle upgrades to the design include a slightly beveled magazine well, an extended safety and new “tactical rack” sights that offer both an improved sight picture and a faster way to charge the gun. All that’s missing to make the SA-35 truly modernized is a rail segment and an optics-ready slide.
It’s nice to see such a classic gun become available once again, and it will hopefully stoke a newfound appreciation among American shooters for one of John Browning’s final and most inspirational designs. The SA-35 has an MSRP of $699 and is available now.
Springfield Armory’s new LevAR charging handle doubles as a stuck case extractor, keeping your gun running without any extra tools.
The current ammo situation in the country is no secret, and it has left many resorting to training with the cheapest ammo possible. Whether it be with the soon-to-be-extinct Russian steel-cased stuff that doesn’t agree with your rifle or ammo that’s been reloaded with poor QC, most AR users have probably encountered a higher number of stuck cases this past year than ever before. When this happens, shooters in the past have only had two ways to clear it—either by mortaring their rifle against the ground or ramming a rod down the barrel. Now, thanks to Springfield Armory, there is a third more elegant solution. The LevAR charging handle is a simple yet ingenious device that adds the functionality of a stuck case extractor to an AR-15 charging handle with minimal added mass or complexity.
The LevAR charging handle can be dropped into any existing mil-spec AR, and installation is as simple as swapping it out for your old charging handle. Once installed, it works by giving you greater mechanical advantage than a standard charging handle, allowing you to extract a stuck shell with ease. The LevAR charging handle only differs from a mil-spec model in one major way—the lever on the right side of its handle. The lever functions as a cam once deployed by a button, bracing itself against the back of the receiver and giving you enough leverage to pull back the bolt and the stuck case with it.
Besides allowing you to quickly and easily clear jams without the aid of any extra tools or risk of damaging your rifle, the LevAR charging handle has safety benefits as well. Unlike with other malfunction-clearing methods, the LevAR allows you to keep the weapon pointed down range during the entire clearing process. Whether you’re training or using your weapon seriously, Springfield’s new contraption lets you get back on target without missing a beat.
The LevAR charging handle is available now and has an MSRP of $99.
Christensen Arms has just given their Ridgeline rifle the Jeff Cooper treatment with the new Ridgeline Scout.
Christensen Arms are known for their high accuracy, low weight bolt-action rifles that are appreciated by serious hunters the world over. Taking a page out of Jeff Cooper’s playbook, the company has decided to turn their popular Ridgeline rifle into the Ridgeline Scout.
Available in four chamberings, the new Ridgeline Scout is shorter and lighter than its older brother and now feeds from AICS 10-round detachable box magazines. The Ridgeline Scout was designed to be more modular and tactical as well, now sporting a 0-MOA optics rail, a barricade stop/accessory rail and a threaded barrel with an included flash hider. This makes the Ridgeline Scout an excellent suppressor host as well, especially in its 300 BLK configuration. It’s also available in .308, .223 and 6.5 Creedmoor.
Following in its Ridgeline roots, the Ridgeline Scout is also lightweight and extremely accurate. It features a 16-inch carbon fiber wrapped free-floated barrel as well as a carbon fiber composite stock. It has a TriggerTech Flat-Shoe trigger and a Nitrided action, all housed within Christensen Arms’ precision machined receiver. All these details come together to help give the Ridgeline Scout a sub-MOA accuracy guarantee and a weight of only 5.9 pounds.
All the Ridgeline Scout is really missing to realize Jeff Cooper’s full definition of a scout rifle is the ability to easily mount a low-power long eye relief scope. Considering that this was decided mostly to retain peripheral vision while on safari, most American hunters will prefer the traditional mount location found on the Ridgeline Scout. With an MSRP of $2,199, this is a rifle for serious hunters looking for a compact, light and rugged precision instrument that’s just a bit cooler than your average hunting rifle.
Palmetto State Armory is working to begin domestic production of steel-cased Soviet calibers, set to help offset the Russian ammo ban with hopes to be fully operational by 2023.
The word is out, whether they were ready for it or not. Multiple sources in the past week shared information regarding Palmetto State Armory’s intention to begin domestically producing three popular calibers of steel-cased Russian ammo, and now PSA has confirmed it themselves.
The CEO of JJE Capital, the company which owns PSA, posted the following on AR15.com:
7.62×39, 5.45 and 54R will be manufactured in the US under our soviet arms brand. This project is a very large construction and manufacturing project that has been going on for about a year. Our current timeline has the first steel cases rounds coming off of the line in 2023. Of course any project this large can see delays. We should be able to make up for most of the missing Russian imports.
PSA has already made a substantial investment into the project, which according to Atlantic Firearms was used to purchase the tooling and know-how from an unnamed Eastern European ammunition manufacturer. It will be interesting to eventually find out the origin of Palmetto’s new machinery and knowledge.
With an undertaking this large, some are understandably skeptical of its chances of success, but it’s a noble endeavor that could help millions of Americans continue training on the cheap. The company may have lucked out by making the deal before the Russian ammo ban was announced, but they now have a prime opportunity to help offset this recent attempt at backdoor gun control.
By 2023, the full effects of the Russian ammo ban will finally have been felt by the masses, and the old supply of cheap, reliable steel-cased ammo will be sorely missed. 7.62×39 has become a very popular cartridge in the United States over the past few decades. Besides the millions of Commbloc guns that use the stuff, there are now ARs, bolt-actions and even Rugers that are chambered for it. 7.62x54r and 5.45×39 are more niche than the ubiquitous 7.62 Soviet, but there are still plenty Mosins and AK-74s out there that need love too. A steady flow of 5.45×39 is especially important for PSA, as they’ve already made substantial investments into their domestic AK-74 development, a project that began when supplies from Russia were still going strong. A 5.45 drought would certainly hurt the PSAK-74's popularity, so it only makes sense that they would work to ensure the supply chain can never be interrupted by import restrictions ever again.
For the American shooter, this undertaking will be a success if PSA manages to deliver a high volume of ammunition at a consistent quality and competitive price. The dream scenario would be if someday the price and quality of PSA’s stuff is indistinguishable from what we used to get from Russia. Price, quality and volume are the priorities, but if they manage to achieve all three without issue there are some further interesting opportunities that they could capitalize on.
There was a period when surplus Soviet 7n6 ammo was being imported by the boatload. Genuine, Russian-made military 5.45 packed in spam cans was the norm, and it was cheap too. This was the golden era of being an American AK-74 owner, but unfortunately, the party came to an end when a company without foresight sought importation approval for a 5.45 AK pistol from the ATF. Permission was granted, but it simultaneously recategorized 7n6 as “armor-piercing pistol ammo”, instantly banning it from further importation. While imported 7n6 may never come again, nothing is stopping domestic producers from mimicking the load. It would be wonderful to see PSA produce not only cheap training ammo, but also steel-cored copies of military loadings like 7n6 and M43.
The deal between JJE/PSA and the mystery Eastern European firm is still in the works, and setting up large-scale manufacturing is difficult. There is still plenty that could go wrong before we see the first PSA steel-cased roll off their line at competitive prices, but for the sake of the American gun community at large let’s all hope that their 2023 prediction proves true.
Looking to go armed, but are stuck in the weeds as to what to arm yourself with? Here are 20 excellent concealed carry gun options that will keep you on the defensive.
