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Cadillac Creedmoor: Tascosa Rolling Block Rifle

By
Elwood Shelton
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Shooting in style with Pedersoli’s Tascosa Creedmoor Rolling Block.

What Sets The Tascosa Creedmoor Rolling Block Apart:

  • Curly maple stock adds another dimension to the rifle's appearance.
  • Heavy octogon barrel ideal for long-range shooting.
  • Set trigger makes for a featherweight break.
  • Vernier ladder sight gives 300 points of adjustment.

It was one hell of a shot that September afternoon in 1874.

“Old Reliable,” Col. John Bodine, stepped to the line at Creedmoor, New York, and cracked off a 1,000-yard bull’s-eye as deftly as if it were point-blank. Adding a dash of drama, some onlookers reported blood pouring from the marksman’s hand, a mishap with a libation moments before his turn. If that’s the case, we’d all like a sip of whatever he was drinking.

The Vernier ladder peep sight was the frontier equivalent of today’s high-powered rifle scopes. It still gets the shooter on target at a country mile.
The Vernier ladder peep sight was the frontier equivalent of today’s high-powered rifle scopes. It still gets the shooter on target at a country mile.

The wound, in all likelihood, is a bit of embellishment. Undeniable about the shot, it delivered the Americans a win against the world-renown Irish team. Also indisputable was the instrument at the crack shot’s shoulder—a Remington Rolling Block Rifle.

While time and technology shadow the long arm in modern-day shooters’ minds, the absurdly simple, accurate and somewhat underrated rifle remains among the most consequential single-shots of all time. It was, after all, the most used single-shot military rifle of all time. And thanks to the likes of traditional firearms manufacturers, such as Davide Pedersoli, the hair splitter soldiers on today—one might argue, even better than before.

Those might seem like big words, until you get a gander at Pedersoli’s latest rendition of the rifle. An attempt at balancing form and function, the Tascosa Creedmoor Rolling Block is something special. And, after some time with a .45-70 Government model of the brand-new throwback, it’s difficult to deny the rifle looks as sharp as it shoots.

Stocking Up

For those who don’t reek of black powder smoke, it’s worth noting that Pedersoli has become among the foremost makers of replica arms. If it pitched lead from around the American Revolution through the Old West, it likely rolls out of the manufacturer’s Northern Italy factory.

Rolling Block Rifle 6

The old Remington Rolling Block, perhaps one of the strongest breech-loading designs ever conceived, is one of their staples. And while Pedersoli has faithfully recreated both practical and target renditions of the rifle, nothing quite like the Tascosa had previously come off its line.

Boasting the same stock design as the Creedmoor version of the rifle—of Bodine fame—the gunmaker has upgraded the gun with a somewhat unorthodox stock material: maple. I can hear the noses wrinkling because who wants that blond stuff on a gun that, even brand new, is supposed to have a gritty patina about it. Prepare to be surprised.

More Classic Guns:

Pedersoli opted not for bird’s eye or one of those other light-hued cuts for the rolling block, but a deep, rich heartwood with loads of character. Tiger maple—a certain pattern of curly maple—is often found in musical instruments, but it’s not all Les Paul. American long rifles were often stocked in cuts of curly maple, and the wood has more than proven itself as a stocking material. On the rolling block, the dark, reddish heartwood cut does add a new dimension to the classic arm. And the target model is just the start.

Tascosa (named after a ghost town in Texas) isn’t just a new style of rolling block, but an entire series. Planned for release sometime this summer, the company’s 1874 Sharps, 1885 High Wall, 1886 Lever Action and Trapdoor Rifle will all be available in the Cadillac stock option. That bodes well not just for those who yearn for a wall hanger.

Retract the rear trigger to set the front; shooters enjoy a pull weight of around 2 ounces.
Retract the rear trigger to set the front; shooters enjoy a pull weight of around 2 ounces.

At least for target models, the heavier and more rigid wood has the potential of enhancing the accuracy potential of the guns. Maybe that won’t win the hearts of backwoods hunters, but given the already tight throwback precision rifles the company produces, it’s certain to enamor those who shoot a country mile.

Shoot’n Parts

No surprise on a rifle dubbed “Creedmoor,” it aims to pitch lead to its limits. Pedersoli does everything in its power to make it happen.

This is no more evident than in the rifle’s massive target barrel. At 30 inches in length and 1 inch from top flat to bottom, the octagon fire tube resembles a small piece of artillery. But the massive amount of plum-finished stainless steel plays an important role in keeping the rifle on target. Much like today’s bull barrels, the rolling block’s super-sized version shrugs off heat and ensures consistent harmonics. No whip here.

However, it’s the interior of the tube where the real magic happens. Pedersoli’s boring and rifling process is second to none, involving polishing the bore to a mirror finish before cutting the rifling. In turn, the .45-70’s six grooves and lands offer a near-perfect surface to send a bullet on its way, with less friction and deformation in the deal.

Preserving the fine wood, Pedersoli tips the fore with a brass nose. Note the curve to it, which is perfect for nestling into a set of shooting sticks.
Preserving the fine wood, Pedersoli tips the fore with a brass nose. Note the curve to it, which is perfect for nestling into a set of shooting sticks.

As expected, the sheer amount of barrel makes for a weighty rifle. Given few will ever shoot the rolling block sans sticks, tripods or bench, this doesn’t matter much. Besides, Pedersoli has perfectly balanced the tube in the attractive stock, putting its pivot point nearly smack-dab at the nose of the slender forend. They’ve also included a brass endpiece on the fore with a wide groove, so you don’t scuff up the maple. Thoughtful.

All this is well and good, but the star of the show comes under the rifle’s color-case hardened receiver. Boy, unless you’ve shot F-Class, it’s unlikely you squeezed anything quite as light and crisp as Pedersoli’s set trigger. It’s the classic two-trigger design, the rear setting the sear and the front dropping the hammer. The difference between standard and set weights are night and day—7 pounds to roughly 2 ounces (sorry, my Wheeler scale didn’t measure quite that low). No arguments a real boost to accuracy, once you discipline that itchy trigger finger.

As to the rest of the rifle, the rolling block is a rock-solid system cooked up just after the American Civil War—the evolution of the split block. Easily, it’s as strong, if not stronger, than the popular falling-block designs. But it has the distinct advantage over the like of the Sharps or even Ruger’s No. 1—no lever action. Not only does this potentially eliminate mechanical error—the rolling block only has two moving parts in its action—but also makes shooting prone simpler. No need to contort to load the next round with all controls north of the receiver.

Not to thumb my nose at falling block fans, but I find the rolling block much more convenient. If, for no other reason, it’s much quicker on the reload, which is easier to accomplish with the rifle still on the shoulder.

Out of Sight

I’d be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to talk about the rolling block’s sight system. The frontier version of today’s high-powered rifle scopes, the Vernier rear peep sight and tunnel front sight, take some study to grasp in their entirety. But once a shooter catches the drift of how to dial it in, the system drops rounds in like no other traditional system.

Integral to the breech block is an extractor, hastening reloading considerably.
Integral to the breech block is an extractor, hastening reloading considerably.

The Tascosa Creedmoor comes with plenty of sight, too. The rifle ships with a 3-inch version of the tang sight, which offers 300 points of elevation adjustment. In the case of the rifle I tested, with a 34-inch sight radius, that equates to 300 MOA at 100 yards! Windage is equally as fine, .025 inch or 2.5 MOA, but I found a rare bone to pick here. In all but the brightest light, it’s nigh impossible to read windage. Deal-breaker? No. But plan to have your readers and a flashlight on hand if you’re shooting in the shade.

At the Range

Staying true to the heritage of the gun in-hand, I opted to run Black Hill’s 405-grain Authentic Cowboy Action ammo. A solid-lead load, built to emulate yesteryear’s lower-velocity ammunition. It was an apt option for the rolling block … and it performed marvelously.

Using a crosshair insert in the front sight, it took two shots and seven points of elevation adjustment to get on paper at 100 yards. From there, it was off to the races. The first three rounds down range produced my best group of the day, a hair above ½ inch—the third shot clipping the second. While there were fliers—no fault of the rifle—I’m pleased to report they were polite enough to easily smash the vitals of a lead buffalo at 500 yards.

I shot off sandbags the entire afternoon and found the rifle extremely comfortable and responsive. The fore’s flat bottom sits steadily on a malleable surface, and the tall(ish) comb made lining up the peep intuitive. The steep pistol grip tended toward large, but not so oversized to prove awkward or uncomfortable.

The famous “bowtie” on the side of the rolling block’s receiver is actually the side of two massive pivot pins for the breech block and hammer. Stout design.
The famous “bowtie” on the side of the rolling block’s receiver is actually the side of two massive pivot pins for the breech block and hammer. Stout design.

Though the true star of the show was the rifle’s trigger. While requiring discipline when set, the interface is so responsive that you can’t help but hit what you’re aiming at. As to its baseline reliability: It’s a rolling block. It’d be banner news if it didn’t hold tight, drop its hammer and extract brass.

Parting Shot

I have a friend who says, “Nostalgia is a terrible liar.” For the most part, he’s right. We should rejoice the days of polio and mule-drawn plows are behind us. But for every truism, there’s an exception—the Tascosa Creedmoor Rolling Block is one.

Proving bygone technology still performs in the right hands, the time-tested breech loader is a positive delight. Not only does it tick off the right boxes when it comes to precision shooting, but it also is about the prettiest dang iron I’ve set my hands on in a spell.

Decidedly, the Tascosa Rolling Block isn’t for everyone, particularly with a $2,500 MSRP. But the right shooter—maybe a dedicated single-action long-range match marksman—will find it worth every penny.

One thing is for certain: It lives up to the exacting standards Bodine set for the rifle all those years ago.

Tascosa Creedmoor Rolling Block Specs
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Overall Length: 46 inches
Weight: 12 pounds
Barrel Length: 30 inches
Rear Sight: Creedmoor Adjustable
Front Sight: Tunnel
Grooves: 6
Twist: 1:18
MSRP: $2,500

For more information on the Tascosa Rolling Block Rifle, please visit davide-pedersoli.com.

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

The Elimin8r .45: Lone Wolf’s First Suppressor

By
Adam Borisenko
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Lone Wolf has just released the Elimin8r .45, their first suppressor. It’s light, modular, and rated for full-auto fire.

Elimin8r .45 Features:

  • Up To 10mm Caliber
  • Rated For Full-Auto
  • Modular Design
  • Weight: 10.1oz (W/ .578×28 Piston)
  • Overall Length: 8.45 Inches
  • Diameter: 1.375 Inches

Lone Wolf, best known for its Glock parts and accessories, has just released their first suppressor. Already having ventured into making their own pistol slides and 80% polymer frames, Lone Wolf is now utilizing their manufacturing capabilities to enter the suppressor game as well.

Lone Wolf Elimin8r .45

They call their new creation the Elimin8r .45. It’s spelled the way you might see written on a Corvette’s license plate, and as the name implies it has a .45 caliber bore. It’s rated for everything up to and including subsonic .300BLK, even when shooting full auto. Its modular design is constructed of eight aluminum baffles and O-rings, removing baffles will make the suppressor more compact while raising the decibel level. This system allows you to find your preferred balance between noise and size with eight levels of adjustment.

Lone Wolf Elimin8r baffles

Lone Wolf also make their own pistons for the Elimin8r, both versions cost $79.95. One is threaded 1/2×28 (common pitch for 9mm) and the other is .578×28 (common pitch for .45 ACP), but the Elimin8r is also compatible with pistons from Rugged, SilencerCo, and Griffin.

With an MSRP of $599.95, Lone Wolf’s new Elimin8r .45 is competitively priced for a modular suppressor rated for so many calibers. It was designed in partnership with Primary Weapons Systems, and you can tell that thought was put into the design. The Elimin8r’s full-auto rating is a testament to its durability and its reverse compatibility with other popular pistons is a nice extra feature. Testing will determine just how quiet this suppressor really is, however, as Lone Wolf makes no specific claims regarding its decibel reduction capabilities.

For more on Lone Wolf, please visit lonewolfdist.com.

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Ammo Brief: .17 Winchester Super Magnum Nails It

By
Gun Digest Editors
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1

Born from a lowly nail-gun blank, the .17 Winchester Super Magnum has risen to become one of the hottest rimfire cartridges around.

What Makes The .17 Win Super Mag. A Knockout Rimfire:

  • Was designed with economical shooting in mind.
  • Its parent is a .27-caliber nail gun blank.
  • Its maximum average internal pressure is 33,000 psi.
  • The cartridge's velocity gives it superior performance against wind drift.

Winchester Ammunition, in conjunction with Savage, introduced the .17 Winchester Super Magnum rimfire rifle cartridge at the 2013 SHOT Show. A Winchester Ammunition announcement called this “the most revolutionary rimfire cartridge in the company’s almost 150-year history.”

17 winchester super magnum hornady box

Further, the company said, “The .17 Win Super Mag. offers the downrange performance of a centerfire cartridge at only a fraction of the cost. For the first time in history, hunters can expect pinpoint accuracy and devastating performance from a rimfire cartridge, at ranges well past 200 yards.”

One of Winchester’s goals with the new .17 was to keep it affordable. A box of 50 should retail for about $15, which is much cheaper than almost any centerfire varmint load.

“Our engineers have been developing the top-secret .17 Win Super Mag. caliber for more than three years, and the rimfire revolution begins now,” said Brett Flaugher, Winchester Ammunition vice president of sales, marketing and strategy in 2013. “At 3,000 fps, it’s the fastest modern rimfire cartridge on the planet. The downrange energy deposited by the .17 Win Super Mag. will be a game-changer for varmint and predator hunters everywhere.”

General Comments

This round descended from a .27-caliber nail-gun blank, which is necked down to take a .17-caliber bullet. The brass case is about half a grain thicker than the .17 HMR. Maximum average internal pressure is 33,000 psi, which is about 7,000 psi higher than the .17 HMR’s. It pushes a 20-grain bullet at 3,000 fps—625 fps faster than the .17 HMR. In a 10 mile-per-hour crosswind, the .17 WSM moves 7.3 inches at 200 yards, while the .17 HMR slides 16.6 inches.

The .17 Winchester Super Magnum was initially offered in three bullet types: a 20-grain plastic tip in Varmint HV (High Velocity), 25-grain plastic tip in Varmint HE (High Energy) and a 20-grain jacketed hollow-point in Super-X. The .17 Win Super Mag bullet delivers more than 150 percent greater energy than the .22 Win. Mag. or .17 HMR. The .17 WSM first-adopter rifles included the Savage B-Mag bolt-action, Winchester 1885 Low Wall single-shot and the semi-automatic Franklin Armory F-17.

17 WMR Table

Editor's Note: This article is an excerpt from Cartridges of the World, 16th Edition.

More On-Target Rimfire Info:

The SDS Lynx 12: The Other Chinese Saiga Clone

By
Adam Borisenko
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As far as affordable and available AK shotguns go, how does the Lynx 12 stack up against its competition?

What’s a Lynx 12?

  • Semi-Auto AK-Style Shotgun
  • Chambered For 2.75 And 3-Inch 12-Gauge Shells
  • Made In China
  • 4-Setting Adjustable Gas System
  • Threaded Muzzle
  • Two Available Models

Shotguns will never go out of style, but as technology progresses so do people’s expectations. Traditional shotgun configurations are becoming less popular than magazine-fed, semi-auto designs. These tactical takes on the classic 12-gauge come in many different flavors, but the one that started the trend was the Izhmash Saiga-12 AK shotgun.

The Kalashnikov may be the best platform for this style of shotgun and they remain a desirable option. But sanctions placed on Russian arms companies have meant no new ones have been imported since 2017. Now that the AK shotgun market is filled with foreign and domestically produced Saiga clones to try and keep up with the demand, how does the Chinese Lynx 12 fare against its competition?

Lynx 12 HF3G
Lynx 12 HF3G

Lynx 12 HF

This is the standard SDS Lynx 12, and it is much closer in form to a real Saiga than other Chinese clones. It is based on the later-pattern models that were configured more like traditional AKs rather than the original sporter variants. The Lynx accepts factory Saiga handguards as well as standard AK grips and stocks, just like a genuine Saiga 12. It also has a manual bolt hold open and bolt release button, an adjustable gas regulator, and an externally threaded muzzle—all features found on original Saigas as well.

The Lynx’s iron sights are a simple V-notch rear and bead front post. This model also includes a standard-pattern AK side scope rail on the receiver to allow for the mounting of optics. The Lynx 12 is also compatible with factory Saiga magazines, but SDS have their own spares for sale too. Both models of Lynx ship with a 5-round mag but 10-rounders are available as well.

The biggest apparent difference between the two shotguns is the Lynx’s four gas settings as opposed to the Saiga’s two, giving the Lynx a finer degree of tunability for the ammo type. This should give the Lynx good reliability with a variety of ammo, but all semi-auto shotguns perform more reliably with hotter loads.

The Lynx 12 HF’s MSRP is $499.95.

Lynx 12

Lynx 12 HF3G

This variant was designed with 3-gun competitions in mind, hence the “3G” in the name. Besides a few features to make it more suited for competition, it is identical to the standard Lynx 12.

The most significant change is the addition of a left-side charging handle—an AK modification that requires changes to be made to the receiver. This feature helps right-handed shooters reload the weapon more quickly by eliminating the need to roll the weapon or reach over top to chamber a round. One side effect of this change is that it makes it impossible to have a side scope rail mount like the one found on the standard Lynx. For this reason, the Lynx 12 HF3G includes a railed top cover for mounting optics instead.

The Lynx 12 HF3G has an MSRP of $549.95.

Lynx 12 HF3G with left-side charging handle.
Lynx 12 HF3G with left-side charging handle.

With so many different Saiga clones to consider today, only you can decide which variant is ultimately best for you. Compared to the American-made KS-12 and the Chinese JTS, the Lynx 12 is a very balanced AK shotgun option. It is nearly as clone correct as the KS-12 while managing to cost significantly less, and it has more features than the JTS while managing to cost only slightly more. Considering that affordability was one of the original selling points of Russian Saigas, the Lynx 12 is just about as close as you can get to an original when buying one new today.

For more information on SDS, please visit sdsimports.com.

More On AK Shotguns

New Weapon Fits For Galco VHS Shoulder Holsters

By
Adam Borisenko
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Galco shoulder holsters can now accommodate weapon mounted lights for the first time with their updated VHS 4.0.

New VHS 4.0 Glock 17/Glock 19 Fits Include Following Light Models:

  • Streamlight TLR-1
  • Streamlight TLR-1 HL
  • Viridian X5L
  • Inforce Wild2

Galco is a big name in the holster world. They’ve been making leather goods since the 1960s and became world famous when their shoulder holster system was prominently featured on the Miami Vice television series. Since then, they have become one of the biggest leather holster providers not only for Hollywood, but for real life law enforcement and military as well. Their shoulder holsters have seen heavy, real-world use from the streets of New York City to the deserts of the Middle East, and while you yourself may not be a grizzled detective or a battle-hardened tanker, Galco’s shoulder holster systems may still be worth looking at if you’d like to more comfortably conceal a large handgun.

Galco VHS 4.0

If you stay up to date with current CCW trends, carrying a larger gun is likely something you’ve given some thought to. Many prominent members of the concealed carry community now advocate for having a red dot and flashlight mounted on your daily carry gun at all times. While both of these accessories can greatly improve your performance in certain situations, many still balk at the idea of concealing that much mass on their beltline. While still possible to do, the presumption that one must carry their gun on their waist is a misconception.

Shoulder holsters still have a place in the CCW world, and for those who’d like to carry a flashlight and red dot on their gun, a shoulder holster may be the best way to go about it. Presuming that your carry setup includes some of the most common pistol models and accessories, Galco’s updated VHS 4.0 shoulder holster may be just what you were looking for.

VHS with WML

The V in Galco’s VHS does not stand for “Video”, despite also being popularized in the 1980s. In this case it stands for “Vertical”, describing the orientation of the pistol in relation to your body. The more famous shoulder holster design immortalized by Don Johnson on Miami Vice is horizontal in nature and has its own pros and cons associated with it. Horizontal designs are typically faster to draw from, but they’re also harder to conceal and are generally considered less safe for the public since the muzzle can flag anyone who happens to be at the right (or wrong) angle behind one. Vertical shoulder holsters on the other hand are easier to conceal but come at the cost of being slower to draw from. One of the main advantages of using a shoulder holster is its ability to conceal a pistol that may not be concealable in any other way, so the vertical design is probably the way to go if you’d like to keep your gun as secret as possible.

The Galco VHS 4.0 was already an excellently designed shoulder holster that has been carried and loved by many, but the additional fits they just added were a massive leap forward in terms of practicality. Now the world-famous shoulder holster company has options for those with modern CCW guns as well as for those who never moved on past the ‘80s.

For those looking for the best way to conceal a full-sized Glock with a WML and red dot sight, look no further than the Galco VHS 4.0. It is available now in brown or black and has an MSRP of $264.

For more info on Galco Gunleather, please visit galcogunleather.com.

More On Shoulder Holsters And CCW

Three Amigos: Perfect Trio Of Ruger .357 Magnum Options

By
Richard A. Mann
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2

For the serious one-cartridge shooter, these three .357 Magnum guns set you up to handle any situation.

What Are The Ruger .357 Magnum Options:

The idea of having one gun you could trust to sort out all your problems is appealing and has merit. Like grandpa said, “Beware the man with one gun.” However, unless you only have a limited assortment of problems to solve, a one-gun answer will be, at best, a compromise. I don’t believe there’s a one-gun answer for everything—or even most things. But what if we took a different approach and instead of relying on one gun, we relied on one cartridge?

Ruger .357 Magnum options that are ready to handle nearly any task.
Ruger .357 Magnum options that are ready to handle nearly any task.

This drastically changes the conversation, because by settling on a single cartridge we can rely on multiple guns to shoot it. Of course, it also limits possibilities. For a serious one-cartridge solution, we have to turn to a revolver cartridge that can serve triple duty in a concealed handgun, a general-purpose sidearm and a rifle. In a perfect world, you’d be able to carry all three at the same time without undue discomfort.

There are really only three options to choose from: the .327 Federal Magnum, the .357 Magnum and the .44 Magnum. The .327 would give you an edge in a concealed-carry revolver because it offers six shots instead of five. The .44 Magnum would reign supreme in a rifle because of the power it can deliver. The problem with the .327 is that Henry is the only company making rifles for it, and the problem with the .44 is that even compact revolvers aren’t all that compact … and they hurt on both ends.

One of the best features of the Ruger .357 Magnum 77/357 is how light, compact and quick handling it is.
One of the best features of the Ruger .357 Magnum 77/357 is how light, compact and quick handling it is.

That leaves the .357 Magnum. And quite frankly, while it might seem like a compromise or that you’re settling, it’s a fine choice. From a self-defense standpoint, the .357 Magnum has a stellar reputation for stopping fights. As an everyday sidearm or as a predator defense gun, with the right ammo it can deal with small and large four- or two-legged critters, and even big bears. And in a rifle, the .357 Magnum is surprisingly effective.

The guns chosen would be important, but the key to versatility and success with this one cartridge approach is the ammunition.

Ruger .357 Magnum LCR

The Ruger LCR is a magnificent little creation of steel, aluminum and polymer. Ruger offers a version with a hammer and one without. With its 1.87-inch barrel, the LCR weighs only 17.1 ounces. A soft rubber Hogue grip is standard, and the suggested retail price is $669. This little revolver is as comfortable to carry as it is to conceal.

For self-defense with the little LCR, Buffalo Bore’s Heavy .38 Special +P 125-grain Low Velocity Jacketed Hollow Point load is an ideal choice.
For self-defense with the little LCR, Buffalo Bore’s Heavy .38 Special +P 125-grain Low-Velocity Jacketed Hollow Point load is an ideal choice.

You could argue that the trigger is a little on the heavy side, but the primary problem with such a lightweight, compact, .357 Magnum revolver is holding onto it when shooting full-power loads. For this reason, many who carry .357 LCR opt for .38 Special +P ammunition.

The use of .38 Special ammunition in the LCR is actually a really smart choice, if—and that’s a big if—the right ammunition is chosen. After a good bit of terminal performance testing, the two standout loads for this little revolver are the Buffalo Bore Heavy .38 Special +P 125-grain LV (low velocity) JHP and the 135-grain, Speer Gold Dot .38 Special +P. Both penetrate between 11 and 12 inches and expand to just a shade more than a half-inch. This revolver/ammunition combination fills the everyday carry, defensive handgun need.

Get More .357 Magnum Info:

Ruger .357 Magnum Blackhawk Convertible

The next slot we need to fill is a general-purpose handgun—one that you can use for hunting, predator defense and even protection. Single-action revolvers are often looked at as antiques or curios more suited for recreational shooting. The truth is that a high-quality, single action is rather versatile, and short of high-end custom creations, no single-action revolver has a better reputation than the Ruger Blackhawk. The standard Blackhawk with a 4.62-inch barrel retails for the same price as the LCR, but a better option is the .357 Magnum/9mm Luger convertible model, which costs about $100 more.

For serious business—like defense against beastly predators—Buffalo Bore’s .357 Magnum Outdoorsman load is at the top of the charts.
For serious business—like defense against beastly predators—Buffalo Bore’s .357 Magnum Outdoorsman load is at the top of the charts.

In this modern world of high-tech controlled-expansion projectiles, hardcast bullets get overlooked. They’ll out-penetrate every other style handgun bullet and, with their flat meplat, they do a terrific job of damaging tissue. For the best hardcast ammunition out there, turn to Buffalo Bore. Their Heavy Outdoorsman 180-grain load will generate 1,379 fps and 759 ft-lb of energy from a 4.62-inch barreled Blackhawk. I’d like to be able to tell you how deep one of these bullets will penetrate, but after stacking gel blocks 36 inches deep and failing to stop one, I gave up.

This revolver, paired with a Galco 1880’s holster and cartridge belt, is easy to carry. Just as importantly, the cartridge belt provides a way to transport a lot of ammunition that’s close at hand for the single action, the LCR and the rifle.

Ruger .357 Magnum 77/357

When selecting rifle chambered in .357 Magnum, the tendency is to go with a lever gun. That’s a choice that’s hard to argue; my Marlin 1894 SBL is a fast-handling, sweet-shooting rifle. However, this three-gun battery is missing the ability to put bullets on target with extreme precision. To do that best, a magnified sight is needed. Sure, you can put a riflescope on a lever gun, but it destroys the handling qualities of the piece. Fortunately, Ruger makes the 77/357, a reasonably compact bolt-action rifle that weighs only 5.5 pounds, is a full pound lighter than the Marlin lever gun, and comes with a barrel that’s 2 inches longer. Retail price: $999.

357 Magnum 4

A Leupold VX-3i, 1.5-5X20mm riflescope only adds 9.3 ounces to this rifle and provides plenty of magnification to take the .357 Magnum cartridge to its maximum practical range. And, these rifles will shoot; 1 to 1½-inch 100-yard groups are common. The trick is finding a load that can stand up to the added velocity you’ll get from the 18.5-inch barrel.

The reason this is so difficult is because .357 Magnum ammunition is manufactured to work in handguns with barrels ranging from very short to about 6 or 8 inches. Bullets that’ll expand and hold together at handgun velocities tend to come apart when fired from a rifle with as much as 500 more fps behind them.

I had to do a lot of shooting to discover a bullet that’d stand up to the velocities the Ruger 77/357 was capable of generating. One that worked marginally well was the 125-grain Barnes TAC-XP load, but even that bullet blew off all of the petals at about 8 inches of penetration. I was having no luck until a box arrived from Federal containing some samples of their new .357 Magnum HammerDown load. Optimally configured for lever-action rifles, HammerDown uses a bonded bullet. Out of the Ruger 77/357, it penetrated 22 inches and expanded to .474 inch. This is elk-capable ammunition.

LCR Test

For what it’s worth, testing out of the Blackhawk and LCR gave a glimpse of what this bullet will do at extended ranges from the rifle. At about 150 yards, you could expect this bullet to deform with a frontal diameter of 0.584 inch and penetrate 20 inches. At about 250 yards down range, it’ll still expand with a frontal diameter of 0.54 inch and penetrate 15.5 inches. Considering we’re talking about a revolver cartridge, that’s exceptional.

One Load, Three Guns

One of the most appealing aspects of three guns that utilize one cartridge is the possibility of one load that could work reasonably well in all of them. If you thought finding a bullet that could withstand rifle velocities was hard, finding one that’d deliver decent expansion and penetration out of a 1.87-, 4.62- and 18.5-inch barrel proved to be a monumental task. After more than a dozen loads failed to deliver the desired performance, almost as an afterthought I tried the 135-grain Hornady Critical Duty load.

Blackhawk Test

I wouldn’t say this load was perfect for all three firearms, but it could suffice as a one-load option. Out of the snub-nose, the bullet expanded 1.26 times its original diameter and penetrated 14 inches. Out of the Blackhawk, expansion came in at 1.64 times the original diameter, with 13.5 inches of penetration. And out of the 77/357, the bullet deformed with a frontal diameter measuring 1.4 times the unfired diameter with 17 inches of penetration.

The HammerDown also delivered good terminal performance from all three firearms. As noted, it worked great in the rifle, and out of the Blackhawk and LCR we got a glimpse of what performance further downrange would look like. From a terminal performance only standpoint, it performed better than the Critical Duty load. However, out of the little, lightweight LCR, recoil was brutal. After five shots, I felt the effects in my hand for the rest of the day. Call me a wuss if you like, but HammerDown ammo out of an LCR is a long way from fun.

77 357 Test

The one-cartridge alternative to solving all your problems might be worth considering. Of course, if some of your problems include cape buffalo or prairie dogs, finding a one-cartridge solution gets impossibly complicated. However, for most shooters, there’s not much a fella couldn’t handle with a .357 Magnum, three good guns and a lot of ammunition.

For more information on Ruger .357 Magnum guns, please visit ruger.com.

Expand Your Knowledge on the Legendary .357 Magnum

Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the November 2020 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

JTS M12AK: Chinese Saiga-12 Copy

By
Adam Borisenko
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1

Russian AK shotguns are banned from import and American-made clones can be pricy, so how does the Chinese JTS M12AK compare?

 

What Is A JTS M12AK?

  • Semi-Auto AK-Style Shotgun
  • Chambered for 2.75 And 3-Inch 12-Gauge Shells
  • Made In China
  • Adjustable Gas System
  • Accepts Rem Choke Tubes
  • Two Available Models

AK shotguns have several notable advantages over more traditional shotgun designs. They are known for being very reliable for semi-auto shotguns and have the potential for a lot of firepower in a small package. Their magazine-fed nature allows for a high ammunition capacity in conjunction with a short barrel, two things which are mutually exclusive in tube-fed designs. Their adoption by police and military both inside and outside of Russia are a testament to their usefulness in a combat role, and their popularity with sports shooters around the world suggests something similar.

In 2017 the last of the authentic Russian AK shotguns were banned from import, leaving Saigas and Veprs only available on the secondhand market for inflated prices. Kalashnikov USA attempted to capitalize on this void in the market by tooling up to produce domestically made Saiga clones. The resultant KS-12 shotguns were generally regarded as being of very high quality, but their low production numbers and relatively high price left much to be desired. Part of why Saigas originally grew so popular in the U.S. was their affordability, a trait that is now only true for the Chinese and Turkish copies. One such example is the M12AK from JTS.

While most Chinese guns have also been banned from import since 1993, their shotguns are still perfectly legal. Rumor has it that JTS is essentially a rebranding of Norinco, and while most other Chinese products are of questionable quality, Norinco’s guns acquired a positive reputation in the U.S. and are still highly desired. While you may not be able to buy a new Chinese AK rifle anymore, how does the M12AK hold up as an AK shotgun?

JTS feature

JTS M12AK

While some refer to this shotgun as a Saiga-12 clone, a copy is a more accurate descriptor. It is true that the M12AK and Saiga-12 are functionally just semi-auto AKs chambered in 12-gauge, but there are several differences between their designs. One apparent difference is the presence of a magazine well on the M12AK. While this is reminiscent of the straight-insert magwells found on Veprs, the M12AK uses rock and lock magazines like the Saiga. The magwell was added to the JTS gun to help expedite reloads. Speaking of magazines, these usually ship with 5-rounders, but they also have 10-rounders available.

All the JTS AK shotguns have a 4-position gas regulator so you can tune the gun to your ammunition type. As any semi-auto shotgun does, these prefer high brass loads, but the regulator can help to cycle lower-powered shells as well. Unlike Saigas, the M12AK’s barrel is not externally threaded for flash hiders, but it is internally threaded to accept Rem choke tubes. Also unlike the Saiga, these have no bolt hold open or bolt release button.

JTS MS12AK

MS12AK-T1

This variant is nearly identical to the standard MS12AK. While the standard model’s dust cover has a Picatinny rail on top for mounting optics, the T1 variant has a normal, ribbed AK dust cover. Instead, the T1 has an aluminum tactical handguard with M-LOK slots and rail segments, these allow for mounting optics, flashlights, foregrips, or anything else you desire.

JTS M12AKT1

The standard MS12AK has been selling for $400 online while the T1 variant has been going for $499. These prices are certainly attractive when most other AK shotguns have been going for significantly more. Obviously, you get what you pay for, and the general consensus surrounding JTS AK shotguns is that they are decently reliable and have an acceptable fit and finish, but they still fall short of the quality of Russian or American-built examples.

Being a budget-oriented design, it's questionable if the tactical handguard really adds $100 of value to the T1 model. Whether you need a home defense gun or just a new range toy, if you’re in the market for a semi-auto mag-fed 12-gauge, the JTS MS12AK is a decent option. They may not be the best, but they are affordable and even more importantly they are available.

For more information on JTS, please visit jtsgroup.us.

More On AK Shotguns

  • Are AK Shotguns The Best Modern Combat 12-Gauge?
  • The Russian Izhmash Saiga-12 AK Shotgun
  • The Russian Molot Vepr-12 AK Shotgun
  • The Kalashnikov USA KS-12 AK Shotgun

Three New Classic American Guns From Pietta

By
Adam Borisenko
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0

Two new Pietta single-action revolvers and a double-barrel shotgun are now available exclusively from Davidson’s.

  • Made By Pietta, Distributed By Davidson's
  • Italian-Made
  • Based On Classic Colt Designs
  • Two New 1873 Revolver Models
  • One New 1878 Shotgun Model

Pietta is one of the leading manufacturers of historical American firearms. Renowned by collectors, reenactors, and cowboy-action shooters, Pietta’s guns fill a very specific niche in the American firearms market. Their catalog was already quite extensive, but they've just added three new models which are exclusively available through the distributor Davidson’s.

The trio includes two new variants of their 1873 single-action revolver as well as an 1878 double barrel coach gun.

New Pietta revolvers and shotgun.

Clones of the iconic Colt Single-Action Army, Pietta’s 1873 revolvers are made in a variety of calibers and configurations. The two new variants that will be available exclusively through Davidson’s are caliber-convertible models. Identical besides their barrel lengths, the new 1873s each include two cylinders which can be swapped to fire either .45 Long Colt or .45 ACP.

These caliber options add a lot of versatility to these otherwise obsolescent designs. For collectors and cowboy action shooters, the .45 Colt cartridge offers historical authenticity. For those who’d like to enjoy the Pietta 1873 at the range without breaking the bank, or carry it on a camping trip with more choices of modern defensive ammo, the option of .45 ACP is there as well.

Both models of Pietta’s new 1873 feature a blued finish, a brass trigger guard, and brown polymer grips. They are available with either 4.75- or 5.5-inch-long barrels and have an MSRP of $559.99.

pietta 1873 SAA

The third piece in this exclusive new trio is a Double Barrel Deluxe Coach Gun. It’s a 12-gauge side-by-side shotgun with 2.75-inch chambers and 20-inch-long barrels. It has a walnut stock, blued barrels, and a case-hardened receiver to add some colorful flair. Based on the Colt 1878, this coach gun features two external hammers and two triggers, but to remain historically accurate it does not have automatic shell ejectors.

The Pietta Double Barrel Deluxe Coach Gun has an MSRP of $989.99.

pietta coach gun

These new offerings from Pietta highlight two classic American firearms designs from Colt that helped to shape the Old West. Made in Italy, this iconic trio is available now, distributed exclusively through Davidson’s.

For more on the manufacturer, please visit pietta.it.

More Single-Action Army Models

Uncle Mike’s New Long Gun Cases And Range Bag

By
Adam Borisenko
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0

Uncle Mike’s has just released a new series of long gun cases and a handgun-specific range bag, both are affordably priced and available now.

Long Gun Case Options

  • Scoped Rifle Or Shotgun Profile
  • Three Rifle Case Sizes
  • Two Shotgun Case Sizes
  • Black Or Forest Green

Uncle Mike’s products are known for being some of the most affordable yet functional firearms accessories on the market. When simple will suit your needs, Uncle Mike’s stuff will probably get the job done for a good price. They already had some cases and bags for sale, but they’ve recently updated their catalog with a new family of long gun cases as well as a pistol-oriented range bag.

The new padded long gun cases are available for either shotguns or scoped rifles, come in black or forest green, and come in multiple sizes. The zippers run the entire length of the case to allow for them to be opened flat, and the interior lining is designed to be snag-free and protective. Simple and robust, these cases look ideal for hunters who just need to get their guns into the field scratch-free. The MSRP for all Uncle Mike’s Padded Long Gun Cases is $19.95.

uncle mike case

The new Sportsmen’s Range Bag is designed specifically for handgunners to conveniently transport two pistols and their accouterments to and from the shooting range. Its main compartment has two removable dividers and two padded pistol rugs, and the zippers can be locked shut. It can be carried by either the removable shoulder strap or the attached nylon handles. The Uncle Mike’s range bag is only available in black and has an MSRP of $30.95.

uncle mike range bag

For more information on Uncle Mike's, please visit unclemikes.com.

More Gun Cases And Range Bags

Video: Rundown On Shooting On The Move

By
Gun Digest Editors
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0

Effectively shooting on the move starts at the ground up.

When bullets are flying nobody is standing still. Find that hard to believe? Dial up a video of a traffic stop gone bad and you’ll see the officer involve—and most likely the perp—don’t have their feet rooted to the ground. Which segues into the topic at hand, effectively shooting on the move.

Honestly, it’s not the easiest skill to master, not simply because you subtracted the most important asset to accuracy—stability. But shooting on the move also forces you to do two things at once, which—chewing gum and walking cracks aside—is no easy task. The reason, as Jamie Caldwell points out in the above video, is because you’re not just trotting around, pumping the trigger. Instead, you’re engaging in a controlled gate, while executing all the fundamentals that get you hits. As the instructor at 1-Minute Out and former special operator demonstrates, doing this correctly all starts from the ground up.

Your feet and legs do almost all the work in this process, not simply propelling you to the next point, but steadying the rest of your body for shooting. They absorb all the shock so your gun isn’t bouncing while you move. Conversely, your upper body remains as stable as possible, almost as if you were shooting from a stationary position. Caldwell breaks down each part in detail in the video, so it’s worth watching in its entirety. He also demonstrates a simple drill to bone up on shooting on the move. This might be the most important part of his spiel, given getting this skill down pat requires practice.

Get more training from Panteao Productions.

Get More Instruction From Jamie Caldwell:

The Serbs Are Coming! New Zastava PAP M90 Rifles Soon

By
Adam Borisenko
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0

Zastava USA announced that a batch of their new 5.56 PAP M90 AKs have arrived in the U.S. and will be shipping out to retailers soon.

What’s A PAP M90?

  • Semi-Auto AK Derived From Yugoslavian M70
  • Made In Serbia By Zastava
  • Chambered For 5.56x45mm NATO
  • Ships With Polymer Furniture
  • Adjustable Gas System

Zastava had promised U.S. customers that they would have M90 rifles in-country before the summer of 2021, and they managed to make that deadline by a single day. The shipment arrived at JFK airport on June nineteenth and is shipping out to distributors today. Zastava says you can expect to have an M90 in your hands by next week.

American AK enthusiasts have been awaiting this news for a while, as 5.56 AK imports have been severely limited recently. The most widely available 5.56 AKs for some time now have also been from Zastava in the form of their ZPAP85 pistols, so it will be nice to finally have a rifle option on the market as well.

M90

Zastava M90 AKs chambered in 5.56 have been imported before, but this model is an updated iteration. It shares some features with Zastava’s newest generation of ZPAPs, such as the chrome-lined barrel and bulged trunnion, but it also has some upgrades that are unique to this new model of M90.

Some unique external features are its slightly longer than standard 18.25-inch barrel and polymer furniture. The pistol grip and folding Zhukov stock are made by Magpul, and the rubber handguard is made by Hogue. The handguard can also have optional rail segments installed for mounting accessories. The furniture is still the proprietary Yugo style, so aftermarket options are more limited than for AKM-pattern guns. The polymer furniture it ships with has received praise so far for being very ergonomic and functional, but standard M70 wood furniture can be installed for those who prefer the classic look.

M90 folded

The M90’s barrel has been threaded for the standard AK 14×1 LH pitch and ships with a typical AKM-style slant brake. It has a Yugoslavian-pattern side scope rail like the ZPAP for mounting optics.

The M90 also has an adjustable, 3-position gas system for running a variety of ammo in any condition. With the proper gas setting, the M90 can reliably run any kind of ammo that gets fed to it. Brass or steel cased, .223 or 5.56, loaded light or loaded hot, the M90 should be able to cycle them all without issue.

Internally, the Zastava M90 also has a distinctive ported and hollow piston head. This is to increase the rifle’s accuracy according to Zastava.

M90 gas regulator and hollow piston.
M90 gas regulator and hollow piston. Photo:Atlantic Firearms

With the price set at over $1,000, the Zastava PAP M90 is a more expensive AK option than either Zastava’s 5.56 pistol or their 7.62 rifle, but it comes with some unique features and upgrades that will be appealing to many shooters. Keep an eye out for these hitting store shelves and online shops sometime next week.

For more information on Zastava, please visit zastavaarmsusa.com.

More Serbian Zastava AKs

Brandishing And When You Can Legally Display A Gun

By
Marty Hayes
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2

When is it brandishing and when is it a legal display of a firearm to back down an attack?

On June 28, 2020, in response to a riotous mob breaking through an iron gate into their St. Louis gated community, with a mass of approximately 300 people coming down the road toward their house, attorneys Mark and Patricia McCloskey grabbed firearms, he an AR-15 and she, a Bryco 9mm. They went outside their home to confront the riotous mob from their front porch. In doing so, they set themselves up for St. Louis Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner to charge them with “Unlawful Use of a Weapon.”

Every state has laws against brandishing a weapon in public, or "unlawfully displying" a gun in public.
Every state has laws against brandishing a weapon in public, or “unlawfully displaying” a gun. But there are gray areas.

The legal case against the McCloskeys will take many months to resolve, and until the trial occurs, we won’t see all the evidence of the case, although YouTube videos featuring Mark McCloskey indicate that he had a fear of being attacked by the mob, which is why he used the AR-15 the way he did.

So, with this case in mind, let’s discuss the right to threaten deadly force with the use of a weapon against those who are threatening you. This analysis isn’t state-specific, but instead is intended to be considered general education. It’s up to the individual armed citizen to know what his or her state’s statutory and case laws show.

Know Your Rights:

Brandishing

The common law of the United States ordinarily calls a criminal charge of waving a gun around in public “brandishing.” In many other states, it’s illegal to “unlawfully display” a firearm or “unlawfully exhibiting” a firearm.

Additionally, most if not all states have statutes that make it an “assault” to point or aim a weapon at someone without the justification of self-defense. And, since a firearm is used, the seriousness of that particular charge (called “aggravated assault” in states that follow the common law) elevates it to a serious felony with possible sentencing entailing years of jail time. A firearms enhancement means probably five years or more in prison.

So, when is having a gun “at the ready,” meaning in-hand and observable, not a crime? To determine that, you need to look at both your own statutory law and the case law interpreting the statutory law. Generally speaking, though, if you display a firearm (but not point it) in the face of presently threatened unlawful force, you’re likely to be in good shape.

I’d be surprised to find any state that doesn’t allow you to back down a criminal attacker by displaying a firearm and calmly telling him to stop doing what he’s doing or contemplating doing. This would apply only if the aggressor was threatening your safety. The amount of force you can use depends entirely on how much force is threatened against you.

In many states, displaying a gun, but not pointing, in the face of a threat would not be deemed brandishing. However, a keen knowledge of that state's laws are require to make a certain determination.
In many states, displaying a gun, but not pointing, in the face of a threat would not be deemed brandishing. However, a keen knowledge of that state's laws are require to make a certain determination.

If a person or persons are threatening to kill/rape/rob you, and they have the means to accomplish the threat, you’re likely going to be legally justified in pointing a gun at the aggressor(s). But, on the other hand, if someone who doesn’t obviously possess the means to carry out the threat, you had best keep your gun unseen. If there isn’t such an immediate threat, why not walk away? If doing so wouldn’t escalate the peril you’re in, then avoiding the entanglement would be the best bet.

Gray Areas

What about the gray areas, though? What about the times when you might not know what the situation really is, but you have a pretty firm belief that things are going to escalate quickly to endanger your life?

That’s when you need to invoke the reasonable person doctrine. What would a reasonable and prudent person believe, knowing what you know, and seeing what you see? Simpler put, how would this look to others?

One thing you don’t want to do when displaying a firearm or other dangerous weapon in the face of presently threatened unlawful force is make threats to kill. A new crime, which has popped up and is a favorite of prosecutors looking to be able to arrest gun owners, is the crime of “making terrorist threats.” The threat to kill, coupled with the ability to carry out the threat, fulfills the elements of this crime. Typically, the crime is a felony, with the result of conviction bringing jail or prison time, along with loss of your firearm rights. Don’t make threats to kill or even threaten to shoot.

Right about now, you might be thinking this advice seems very complicated. You may think, heck, you have trouble enough just hit the target, let alone issue verbal commands. If so, seek out competent training, which usually isn’t cheap, but well worth it when you actually have to draw that new blaster.

If this isn’t possible, may I suggest pepper spray?

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

New Smith & Wesson M&P Spec Series Kit

By
Adam Borisenko
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1

Smith & Wesson’s new Spec Series Kit includes a knife, challenge coin, and an M&P pistol chock-full of upgrades.

Features Of The M&P9 M2.0 OR Pistol:

  • 17+1 Capacity Of 9mm
  • 4.6-Inch Threaded Barrel
  • Optics Ready With Included Crimson Trace CTS-1500 Red Dot
  • Suppressor Height Night Sights
  • Two-Tone Finish

For some, half the fun of buying a new gun is tinkering with it. They enjoy installing various upgrades and accessories until they have it configured exactly how they want it. Others, however, prefer their guns to come exactly as they want them, straight out of the box. The M&P9 M2.0 OR Pistol included in Smith & Wesson’s new Spec Series Kit definitely belongs in the latter category.

Looking like something straight out of a Tom Clancy game, the M&P9 M2.0 OR Pistol was built to be suppressed. It would seem wrong to not put a can on this gun given its included upgrades. A fixed blade M&P knife, S&W Spec Series challenge coin and custom fitted carry case make this kit one very presentable package.

spec series

The Pistol

The Spec Series Kit includes an M&P9 M2.0 OR Pistol. That name is a mouthful, but it means that it’s a 9mm, second-generation Smith & Wesson M&P with an optics-ready slide. Being the newer 2.0 model, it includes an improved trigger and other upgrades over the original M&P.

The FDE slide has been cut to be optics ready, and the pistol ships with a Crimson Trace CTS-1500 red dot sight. The pistol also comes with suppressor height night sights, so it’s set up right from the box to be suppressor ready.

spec series mp

The Knife

The knife included with the Spec Series Kit is an M&P full tang fixed blade boot knife. It has a single-edged, spear-point blade that’s 4.5 inches long with an overall length of 9 inches. The rubber handle is marked M&P and is FDE colored, just like the included M&P pistol’s slide. A nylon sheath is also included for carrying inside one’s boot.

spec series knife

The Spec Series Kit obviously has some appeal for Smith & Wesson collectors and people who just appreciate fancy guns that come in fancy packages, but the included pistol has some very functional design features as well. The pistol comes from the factory set up for suppressor and optics use, making it a good choice for a home defense piece, especially if you’re already familiar with the M&P platform. The Spec Series Kit has an MSRP of $969 and is backed by Smith & Wesson’s lifetime service policy.

For more on Smith & Wesson, please visit smith-wesson.com.

More Smith & Wesson M&P Pistol Options

M&P15T II: Smith & Wesson’s Next Gen Tactical AR

By
Elwood Shelton
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0

Slimmed down and dolled up, Smith & Wesson's next-gen M&P15T II improves on an already solid model.

Where Is The M&P15T II upgraded:

  • Slimmed handguard for improved handling.
  • Grip modeled after M&P pistols with interchangeable palm swells.
  • Flat-faced trigger lessening the felt pull weight.
  • Rubber buffer system in the lower for a tighter, rattle-free fit.

Smith & Wesson, America’s foremost revolver maker? Few would argue the long-running Massachusetts concern is definitely in the race for the title, producing some outright classics over the years. But the manufacturer has proven a nimble firearms company, turning out a slew of notable non-wheelguns that have more than earned a niche in the marketplace. Perhaps one of the most underrated is the M&P15 line of AR-style rifles.

MP15t II 1

Over the years, the long guns have earned the reputation as being among the best entry-level options available, offering shooters a Spartan, but a very reliable system. The M&P15 Sport II is legendary in this regard. However, the company offers the entire gamut of AR-style rifles, at nearly every price point, and recently revamped its popular mid-line model. Meet the M&P15 Tactical II (M&P15T II). Maintaining the same solid engineering as its predecessor, the M&P15T, the new model offers a few nice upgrades that most shooters should welcome.

Among the most appreciated, a relatively sane price tag. With an MSPR of $1,372, the gun remains very competitive in its class, while bringing plenty to the table.

Slimmed Handguard

So what do you get with the next-gen M&P15T II? Most obvious is an improved handguard system, much more in line with most shooter’s expectations nowadays. Aside from boasting a full-length Picatinny rail, ample M-Lok slot real estate for accessory attachment and free-floating the barrel, its whisper-thin. Not that the version on the old model was a bear, but the new 13-inch aluminum handguard should prove much better at facilitating a forward c-clamp style grip and trimming the gun’s overall weight.

M&P15T II's slimmed down handguard.
M&P15T II's slimmed down handguard.

Getting A Grip

Typically talking pistol grips elicits yawns. However, Smith & Wesson has done something fairly intriguing in the area, incorporating a grip modeled after its M&P pistols. It’s not only a dead ringer with its fairly aggressive pebble texturing, but also that it includes four interchangeable palm swell inserts. Yeah, it’s a bit gimmicky on the surface, but does potentially have some performance-enhancing capabilities. More so than just comfort, the inserts possibly could optimize finger position relative to the trigger, cutting down on placement time.

Trigger Time

To that end, Smith & Wesson has vastly improved on the M&P15T II’s trigger, outfitting the carbine with a flat-faced switch that has a fairly nice break. Certainly better than the typical mil-spec trigger, which can even be found in this class of gun. Ergonomically, the trigger finger is easier to situate on a flat shoe, but the design also tends to make the pull weight feel less than it is.

Just link M&P pistols, the S&W AR has interchangeable palm swells on its grip.
Just link M&P pistols, the S&W AR has interchangeable palm swells on its grip.

The AR’s Odds And Ends

As to other notable upgrades, the rifle boasts a Magpul CTR stock, rubber buffers in the lower for a tighter fit and less rattle, front and read Magpul MBUS flip-up sights and Radian Raptor-LT charging handle. Smith & Wesson has made all the M&P15T II’s controls ambidextrous—save the mag release—which not only makes it lefty friendly. It also improves its handling for shooting weak side, a skill many shooters have recognized the importance of in recent times.
Finally, and common in S&W rifles, the gun has 5R rifling, which theoretically reduces bullet deformation and makes the bore easier to clean.

Parting Shot

The M&P15T was a popular AR option, if for other reason than the bang shooters got for their buck.
Smith & Wesson doesn’t appear to have mucked up this winning formula with the M&P15T II.
Improved for modern shooter’s tastes, the rifle maintains its two most important assets—relative affordability and effectiveness.

Model M&P15T II Specs
Caliber: 5.56mm NATO/.223
Capacity: 30+1
Safety: Manual Safety on Lower
Length: 36.9 inches
Front Sight: Folding Magpul MBUS
Rear Sight: Folding Magpul MBUS
Action: Gas Operated Semi-Auto
Stock: Magpul CTR Carbine Stock
Grip: M&P with Interchangeable Palmswell Grip Inserts
Barrel Material: 4140 Chrome-Moly Vanadium Steel
Barrel Twist: 1:8˝ Twist, 5R Rifling
Barrel Length: 16 inches
Weight: 6.7 pounds
MSRP: $1,372

For more information on the M&P15T II, please visit smith-wesson.com.

Raise Your Smith & Wesson IQ:

New Guns And Gear June 2021

By
Gun Digest Editors
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0

Looking for a new iron or piece of kit to enhance the one you already own? Check out these 14 new bits of guns and gear to grow your firearms wish list.

What Are The New Guns And Gear In June 2021:

Winchester M70 Long Range

GG Winchester

Still cherished among the all-time best rifle designs, Winchester recently aimed the classic Model 70 at precision shooters. As the Long-Range model suggests, the rifle is decked out to maximize its range. To that end, it all begins with Bell and Carlson composite stock. Boasting an internal aluminum bedding block, the stock has an air-tight mate-up with the receiver and has a few little enhancements to milk the most out of the system—including lower vents to aid barrel cooling and a wide, flat fore to stabilize on a rest. While precision is the Model 70’s focus, the rifle is still field-ready—coming in at less than 8 pounds, making it ideal for long-range hunts. Available in eight calibers, the revamped 70 hits the mark. MSRP: Starting at $1,550

Mystery Ranch Hands-Free Rifle Sling

GG Mystery Ranch

Refining its innovative design, Mystery Ranch has built a better mousetrap when it comes to hunting convenience. The Hands-Free Rifle Sling does what it says, giving hunters use of both hands in rugged backcountry terrain. But, through a handy system, gives up a long gun at a moment’s notice. The secret, a magnetic locking system that holds fast when on the move, but easily disengages when a target of opportunity presents itself. Also nice, it’s quiet as a mountain breeze. Comes with the sling and sternum strap proper, stock dock. Compatible with most pack systems. MSRP: $99

N8 Tactical Pro-Lock Holster

GG N8

Extremely comfortable and arguably more efficient—at least on the draw—outside the waistband carry is well worth consideration. If it fits your lifestyle, N8 Tactical has the rig for you. Known as its Pro-Lock holster, the system provides enhanced passive retention not found in a typical Level I retention holster. N8 calls it their “Secure Twist Release” system, quite simply it’s a slight modification to the polycarbonate shell’s trigger pocket that requires a slight twist to release the gun. Clever. Also, comfortable. An all-leather backing keeps your iron off your side and helps your body breathe, at the same protecting your gun from body moisture. MSRP: $49.95

Sig Sauer M400 Tread Predator AR

GG Sig

When it comes to entry-level ARs, few hold a candle to Sig’s TREAD line. Now, hunters have a reason to look in Sig’s direction, with the introduction of the M400 TREAD Predator. Chambered 5.56 NATO, the rifle sticks to the line formula for success but offers a few upgrades that make it a perfect addition. In particular, the carbine boasts a fully adjustable stock, allowing users to tailor the cheek rise and length of pull at a mere twist of knobs. Additionally, the handguard—Sig’s Predator model—not only offers plenty of M-Lok real estate, but also a wide flat bottom, perfect for drawing a steady rest on a fence post or other support. Outfitted with a snappy single-stage trigger, the TREAD Predator is just the ticket to get coyotes howling. MSRP: $1,100

CCI Clean-22 Realtree Ammo

GG CCI

Less fouling, more stealthy … what’s not to love about CCI’s Clean-22 Realtree. The rimfire ammo has been around for a while, utilizing Federal/CCI’s polymer jacketing to keep lead from clogging up a rifle’s bore. But partnering with Realtree, the ammo-maker has upped its game in the batches you can buy. The plastic jug ships with 400 rounds of clean ammo, which should keep even the most ambitious shooters busy for a couple of hours. As to its performance, it kicks a 40-grain bullet 1,235 fps at the muzzle; that’s enough for any brushy or cottontail that crosses your path. MSRP: $43.99, jug of 400

Federal Premium 10mm Punch Ammo

GG Federal

Federal’s first line specifically developed for civilian defensive use, PUNCH ammunition fills a unique niche in the ammo giant’s catalog. And it’s grown to fit more shooters in recent times. Federal unveiled a new 200-grain 10mm load in the PUNCH line, certain to give armed citizens an edge in life-and-death situations. Engineered to meet or exceed FBI penetration standards, leaving the muzzle at 1,100 fps, the hollow-point loads deliver the peace of mind it can get the job done. This isn’t exclusive to the terminal end of things. Utilizing nickel-plated brass and sealed primers, shooters can expect flawless function in any handgun in which it’s run. MSRP: $30.99, box of 20

M&P Shield Plus 9mm

GG MP

Little double, the M&P Shield is among the most popular concealed-carry pistols to come down the pike. Easy to keep under wraps, intuitive in control and chambered to stop threats, there were few knocks on the pistol, outside of capacity. Now, that’s a thing of the past. Upping the capacity of the demure heater, the Shield Plus brings the pistol in line with other micro-compacts currently on the market. With 13+1 on board, the 9mm has more than enough firepower to handle most lethal-force encounter—outside a full-fledged Hunnic invasion. The best part, Smith & Wesson didn’t compromise the pistol’s very manageable size to squeeze in the extra round, with the gun measuring 6.1 inches in length, 1.1 inches in width and 20 ounces in weight. MSRP: $553

OSS RAD 9 and RAD 45 Suppressors

GG OSS_RAD 45 horiz

A significant advancement in pistol suppressors, the OSS RAD 9 and RAD 45 bring flexibility and improved shooting experience to the table. The heart of the suppressor is what OSS calls its Flow-Baffle technology, which essentially eliminates any blow-back. The secret sauce: radial baffles that route the expanding gases to the perimeter of the device, and then out the front. Modular, the suppressor also adapts to the situation with two configurations. The RAD 9 goes from 7.7 inches at full length down to 5.15 inches, while the RAD 45 is modifiable from 8.6 to 6.4 inches. In any setup, the cans make for long and very enjoyable shooting sessions. MSRP: RAD 9 $849; RAD 45 $999

Hornady Bore Driver FTX

GG Hornady

Hunt with sabot rounds during muzzleloader season and you know their drawback. Yeah, they’re lights-out accurate, but, boy howdy, are they a pain to wrangle down a bore. If there was only a better system. Known as the Bore Driver FTX, the system is designed for sabot-like performance, but not loading. The key here is Hornady opting for a polymer base, which provides the same sealing properties as a sabot but doesn’t require throwing your back out to ram home. Sitting atop the base is Hornady’s legendary FlexTip (FTX) bullet, which serves up class-best ballistic coefficients and downrange performance. Translated, that means the .50-calibers shoot to your muzzleloader’s limits. MSRP: $29.99 box of 20

Galco Classic Lite 2.0 Speedloader Carrier

GG Galco

Reloading a revolver … it’s a hurdle armed citizens are well aware of. Less considered is how to keep those reloads on-hand and under wraps until they’re needed. Galco has the answer in its speedloader carrier tailored to its shoulder holster rigs. Keeping two speedloaders at hand under the support-hand armpit in a horizontal position, the system allows for fast and efficient reloads conducive to the most popular techniques taught today. And the ambidextrous system is tough as cut nails. Constructed of 100-percent premium center-cut steerhide and rugged steel snaps, the carrier is made for years of use and with any caliber. MSRP: $39

Luth-AR MBA-5 AR Upgrade Stock

GG Luth AR

Stocks usually pull up the tail end of an AR upgrade, but few enhancements—outside a snappy new trigger—do more to improve a rifle’s comfort and performance. Luth-AR is a master at tweaking this particular part of a build. Outfitted with the company’s Anti-Rattle set screw found in the MBA-3 and MBA-4, the MBA-5 stock eliminates that annoying shimmy common on lesser options. Additionally, Luth-AR includes a wide, flared cheek rest for an intuitive and comfortable weld, a convenient paddle-style adjustment lever for rapid positioning (six positions). To finish it all up, the parts maker integrates a Picatinny rail on the lower rear of the stock, perfect if you’re a precision shooter who has to have a monopod to steady everything up. Complete with QD attachment points and righty and lefty friendly, the very affordable stock brings out the best in an AR. MSRP: $49.95

Ruger MAX-9

GG Ruger

Ruger is no stranger to carry-ready handguns, though traditionally they stuck to more non-traditional niches. Now, it’s set to tackle the fastest-growing segment of self-defense arms—the micro-compact—with the MAX-9. As to how the pistol measures out, it’s 6 inches long, 1 inch in width, boasts a 3.2-inch barrel and weighs in at 18.4 ounces unloaded. Along with its overall demure size, it offers spot-on capacity, feeding on both a 10-round flush-fit magazine and a 12-round extended capacity. Finally, it’s optic ready—yes, you heard that right. Compatible with a wide swath of red-dot optics, there are few other pistols in its class that compete with what the MAX-9 brought to the table at its price. MSRP: $499

Wilson Combat X-TAC Supergrade

GG Wilson

Arkansas is the heart of American custom gun-making, and it’s also the home of Wilson Combat. Renowned for its custom creations, the popular purveyor of top-shelf 1911s might have outdone itself in the enhancement of one of its popular lines. The X-TAC Supergrade isn’t brand-new, but its release is still worth mention, given it takes Wilson’s “one gun at a time” ethos to its maximum. The company’s most experienced gunsmiths build these John Browning classics, meaning only a few are turned out each month. Exclusivity is an asset, given the carbon-steel beast’s fit and finish are unparalleled … as is its performance. Some of the fine points include bidirectional, X-TAC frontstrap and slide treatment for enhanced grip, rear battle sight and front fiber optic, bull barrel and choice of 9mm, .38 Super and .45 ACP chamberings. MSRP: $4,795

Colt Anaconda

GG Colt

Few things are quite as American as the .44 Magnum and Colt “Snake Guns.” Thankfully, this potent combination returns to the iconic gunmaker’s catalog in 2021 with the release of the highly anticipated Colt Anaconda. The six-round .44 Mag. isn’t a one-on-one clone of the original, instead sharing more with the recently rebooted Python. But the super-sized snake has everything to squeeze every lick of power from the cartridge, including the choice of 8- and 6-inch barrel, redesigned non-stacking double-action trigger, fully adjustable rear sight, Hogue over-molded grips and target-crowned barrel. A brilliant semi-bright finish pulls the whole stainless steel revolver together and makes the Anaconda as appealing as ever. MSRP: $1,499

Editor's Note: This article originally appeared in the 2021 Made In The USA issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.

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Kalashnikov USA’s KS-12 AK Shotgun

By
Adam Borisenko
-
0

Can the KS-12 American Saiga clone hold a candle to the Russian original?

What’s a KS-12?

  • 12-Gauge Semi-Auto AK-Style Shotgun
  • Based on Russian Saiga-12
  • Made in the U.S.A.
  • Adjustable Gas
  • Four Variants

AK shotguns have been popular with both civilians and law enforcement since the introduction of the Saiga-12 in 1997. But sanctions placed on Russian companies in 2014 and 2017 ended any further importation of their firearms into the U.S. Considering that 12-gauge AKs may be the best design for modern combat shotguns, it's no surprise the demand for them didn’t disappear along with the supply. Almost immediately following the 2014 Saiga ban, Kalashnikov USA was formed to try and fill the void left by Izhmash and Molot. Their first project was the KS-12.

KS12T
KS-12T, black.

KUSA Origin

Once the exclusive importer of Saiga shotguns and rifles known as RWC Group, the company reformed as Kalashnikov USA once importing Russian-made weapons ceased to be an option. They had a slow start setting up production but were finally able to get their first guns out the door in 2017.

They have no officially known relationship with the Russian company, Kalashnikov Concern, but KUSA’s guns are supposedly built using original Russian data packages. Those who have extensive hands-on experience with both Izhmash-produced and KUSA-produced AK shotguns claim that the biggest difference between them is KUSA’s generally higher quality control.

One would expect their fit and finish to be higher than on Russian guns, considering the difference in scale of production. Kalashnikov Concern is a former Soviet state-run arsenal, Izhevsk, and still produces guns for the Russian military, Russian civilian market, and export. Kalashnikov USA is a lemonade stand in comparison. There’s nothing inherently wrong with that. Being a smaller operation gives the opportunity for higher levels of quality control, and so far that seems to be true of KUSA’s guns.

Their low production numbers are also their biggest bottleneck to success, however. KUSA simply doesn’t produce enough guns to make them a serious competitor in the AK market. If they ever manage to ramp up production while retaining their excellent quality control, it would be a winning combination.

KS-12

This is the standard version of Kalashnikov USA’s Saiga-12. It is based on the later Saiga import that had a standard, fixed-stock AK configuration rather than the earlier sporter models or the later folding stock models. It is nearly identical to its Russian counterpart, with the biggest difference being the omission of the manual bolt hold open (BHO) device. This can cause problems when attempting to load a full magazine on a closed bolt, which is why the Saigas had them in the first place.

The KS-12 includes a Russian-pattern side scope rail, a threaded muzzle with thread protector, and ships with a 5-round magazine. All KS-12 variants are compatible with original Russian magazines as well, but those are rarer and more expensive than KUSA’s new production mags.

Like the Saiga-12, the KS-12 has a two-position adjustable gas regulator. The settings are designed to reliably cycle low-power practice shells as well as full-power defensive loads. They are both chambered for 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch shells.

KS12
KS-12

KS-12T & KS-12TSFS

These are the tactical configurations of the KS-12 and are almost identical besides the furniture. The KS-12T has a tri-rail handguard, an ergonomic pistol grip, and a collapsible AR-style buttstock. It also ships with a flash hider and a 10-round magazine. The KS-12TSFS is only different in price and its ability to fold the stock as well. Both the standard T and TSFS models are available with black or FDE furniture.

KS12TSFS
KS-12TSFS, FDE.

Komrad

This KS-12 variant isn’t technically a shotgun or a pistol, but a short-barreled firearm. That makes the Komrad the only way to get a factory short-barreled AK shotgun without paying for a $200 government permission slip. This version also comes with the tactical grip and handguard, as well as a vertical foregrip and SB Tactical brace.

KS12 komrad
KS-12 Komrad.

For those in the market for an AK shotgun, you will have to determine whether KUSA’s offerings satisfy your needs. On one hand, they are at least of equal build-quality as original Saigas, they don’t need to be imported, and they’re cheaper new than Saigas are used. On the other hand, KUSA guns are still sometimes hard to find, have also gone up in price, and lack a BHO device.

Both the Saiga-12 and KS-12 are good AK shotgun options, but don’t forget there are also Veprs that will be nicer, and non-Russian imports that will be cheaper. Even with sanctions on Russian arms imports, 12-gauge AKs in America continue to be a solid shotgun option.

For more on Kalashnikov USA, please visit kalashnikov-usa.com.

More On AK And AR Shotguns

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