Rossi R35102 .38 SPL + P 5-SHOT IN BLUE

Rossi Firearms

MIAMI, FL –(Ammoland.com)- The Rossi revolution of firearm design and manufacture started with the founding of the company in 1889 by Amadeo Rossi.  Over the last 115 years, that tradition has grown along with the company and the Rossi Family.  The Rossi name represents a piece of firearm history and a tradition of excellence.

Over the years, Rossi firearms has led the way in design and engineering.  At the same time, it has always been important to produce an affordable product without sacrificing any quality or accuracy.

In December of 1997 BrazTech International L.C. was created as the exclusive importer of Rossi firearms in North America.

Previously, Rossi firearms were distributed by Interarms of Alexandria, Virginia. Rossi manufactures its classic rifles in a plant in San Leopoldo, Brazil and will continue operations there, selling many firearms outside the United States and North America.

At the same time, Forjas Taurus, S.A. purchased the rights and the equipment to manufacture Rossi handguns.  Taurus manufactures three models of .38 Special revolvers and four models of .357 Magnum revolvers under contract with Rossi.  Revolvers sold by BrazTech with the Rossi name are manufactured in a brand new facility owned by Taurus in SaoLeopoldo, Brazil.  Much of the tooling and many of the machines were acquired from Rossi during negotiations between the companies.

Today’s Rossi is still run by the same family and they put the same dedication and innovation into every firearm.  At Rossi, it is more than just building guns…it is a family’s history and tradition.

Rossi Firearms 2013 Catalog

About Rossi:
The Rossi revolution of firearm design and manufacture started with the founding of the company in 1889 by Amadeo Rossi. For the past 120 years, the tradition of innovation grew along with the company and the Rossi family. Today, as part of Taurus International, a Rossi firearm still features the same dedication and innovation in every firearm. Rossi looks forward to providing its customers with the next generation of great firearms. Buy any new Rossi Youth Model Long Gun and get a free 1-year Jr. Membership in the NRA. For more information about Rossi Firearms, a Division of BrazTech International, visit www.rossiusa.com.

Chiappa’s 1887 Lever Action Shotgun

MKS Supply

Dayton, OH - MKS Supply–Chiappa’s 1887 lever action shotgun is a faithful copy of the 1887 Winchester. The original Browning designed Winchester 1887 was the first repeating shotgun.

This fast functioning lever action shotgun holds 5-rounds in the tubular magazine and fully loaded it holds one round in the receiver and one in the chamber for a total of 7-rounds making it at that time the first high-capacity shotgun. The Chiappa 1887 is chambered for modern high-pressure 23/4 -inch rounds.

Chiappa’s 1887 is fitted with select walnut wood stock, either a case colored receiver and a polished blue barrel and magazine or fully (receiver, barrel and magazine) bushed nickel finish. Internal components are individually machined (no castings) by Chiappa and hand-assembled in their state of the art factory in Italy.

The Chiappa 1887s have 22- and 28-inch barrels and come with three different chokes. Additionally the Chiappa made shotgun has an internal safety that prevents accidental firing until the breech block is completely closed; the original 1887s did not have this feature.

The 20-inch field gun will work well for SASS competition, hunting and self-defense; it is a compact quick to use lever action repeating 12gauge and the 28-inch version makes for an excellent and unique looking field gun. To convert for reduced capacity hunting regulations the owner can remove the magazine cap and insert a round limiting device (not supplied).

Specifications:

• Chambering: 23/4-inch 12 gauge
• Magazine Capacity: 5-rounds in tubular magazine
• Action: Lever
• Overall length: 22-inch barrel 39″, 28-inch 45″
• Barrel length: 22 and 28-inch
• Weight: 22-inch barrel 9-pounds; 28-inch 9 pounds 4 ounces (approx.)
• Stock: Walnut
• Finish: Case colored receiver and polished blue bb.l and magazine or brushed nickel
• Chokes (included): Full, modified, and improved
• MSRP 22-inch barrel: Polished blue$1,333, brushed nickel $1,490
• MSRP 28-inch barrel: Polished blue  $1,357, brushed nickel $1,533

Chiappa’s 1887 Lever Action Shotgun

For consumer information:

MKS Supply, Inc.
937-454-0363
www.mkschiappa.com

Colt Mustang XSP Pocket Pistol

Colt Manufacturing Company

WEST HARTFORD, Conn. –-(Ammoland.com)- Colt’s Manufacturing Company LLC, one of the world’s leading designers, developers and manufacturers of firearms, is proud to introduce the newest member of the Colt Mustang family, the polymer framed Mustang XSP.

Like its predecessors, the classic Colt Mustang and Mustang Pocketlite, the XSP is sure to become a popular option for concealed carry.

“The Mustang and Mustang Pocketlite have been favorites of our customers for years. We are excited to build on those very successful products and evolve them even further to meet ever growing customer needs,” said Joyce Rubino, Vice President of Marketing for Colt’s Manufacturing.

“The new XSP takes the best of its predecessor models and adds features that will make it appealing to an even wider customer base.”

Taking advantage of the polymer grip frame, the most noticeable features of the XSP model revolve around optimizing grip comfort and utility. A molded thumb perch under the safeties lets the gun sit easily and comfortably in hands of all sizes. A special enhanced cut behind the trigger guard also helps the gun sit lower in the user’s hand. Blended safety and sidestop profiles, as well as enhanced texturing on the front and back strap, provide increased comfort and create a snag-free profile.

While some basic features of the Mustang Pocketlite, such as size, magazine and slide, continue in the Mustang XSP, numerous changes to the new model reflect customer sentiment. This includes upgrading the front sight on the XSP to a dovetailed design that is more visible to the user. The slide serrations on the XSP have been enhanced to offer an improved grip when working the slide. The XSP also features ambidextrous safeties, rather than the typical single sided safety. Two additional changes are an integral 3/8” accessory rail below the dust cover, and a squared off trigger guard that will allow for easy mounting of lasers and lights to enhance personal protection capabilities.

The Mustang XSP is constructed of an ultra-durable engineered polymer, making it the lightest-weight of all the Mustang models at less than 12 ounces.  The slide and barrel are machined from stainless steel bar stock, and the slide has a blackened finish. The XSP has a 6-round magazine capacity, is chambered in .380 Auto and has a recommended retail of $649.

About Colt’s Manufacturing Company LLC

Colt’s Manufacturing Company LLC is one of the world’s leading designers, developers and manufacturers of firearms.  Colt pistols, revolvers and rifles have been marketed, distributed and sold to law abiding, responsible citizens in the United States and throughout the world for 177 years.  Colt operates its manufacturing facility in West Hartford, Connecticut.  For more information on Colt’s Manufacturing Company LLC, please visit www.coltsmfg.com.

Thompson/Center Dimension Interchangeable Rifle System

Thompson Center Arms

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - Smith & Wesson Corp. announced that the Thompson/Center Arms Dimension Bolt-Action Platform has received the National Rifle Association (NRA) Golden Bullseye Award for “Rifle of the Year” from American Hunter magazine.

This year’s nomination marks the fourth time Thompson/Center Arms has received the prestigious award in the rifle category with past winners including the Encore Pro Hunter, ICON and Venture rifles.

Voted on by a committee of NRA editors and staff, the Golden Bullseye Awards have come to symbolize the most innovative and reliable products currently available for today’s consumers. Thompson/Center Arms will be presented with the award during the 2013 NRA Annual Meeting & Exhibits in Houston, TX.

While reviewing the T/C Dimension, American Hunter staff members characterized the bolt-action platform by saying:

The design and function of this new rifle platform…carries with it something intangible. In the case of the Dimension, that something is performance, offering switch-barrel versatility backed by Thompson/Center’s sterling reputation for accuracy.

Providing shooters with the ability to modify the caliber of their rifle by changing no more than four components, the Dimension Bolt-Action Platform brings together an innovative and intuitive design with the very latest advancements in engineering. Transitioning between barrels is a simple process that can be accomplished by most users in under two minutes through the use of the Locking Optimized Components (LOC) lettering system, which identifies the four caliber families. Available in ten different calibers with both left and right-handed models, the Dimension rifle is MOA (minute of angle) guaranteed, when using premium ammunition, with every barrel that is installed.

Additional features that hunters will find invaluable once in the field include a user-adjustable trigger and an unloaded weight of just 7 lbs. The T/C Dimension is standard with removable spacers in the stock for adjusting length of pull and an ARMORSOFT coating on the stock for added durability and noise reduction.

About Smith & Wesson
Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC) is a U.S.-based leader in firearm manufacturing and design, delivering a broad portfolio of quality firearms, related products and training to the consumer, law enforcement, and military markets. The company’s brands include Smith & Wesson®, M&P® and Thompson/Center Arms™. Smith & Wesson facilities are located in Massachusetts and Maine. For more information on Smith & Wesson, call (800) 331-0852 or log on to www.smith-wesson.com.

Defense Distributed Liberator Pistol

Canadian Shooting Sports Association

Canada - -(Ammoland.com)- The successful firing of the world’s first plastic gun made with 3D printing technology, has brought immediate calls for a ban on so-called “undetectable weapons.”

The gun, called “The Liberator”, was made and developed in Austin, Texas by a non-profit organization called Defense Distributed, which claims its purpose is to “produce and publish information related to the 3D printing of firearms.”

The weapon was made with a 3D printer bought on eBay for just $8,000, and constructed by assembling 15 printed components made from ABS plastic. According to the BBC, which witnessed the weapon’s first test, only the 16th piece, the firing pin, is made from metal.

While Defense Distributed sees its guns as a way for people to defend themselves, at least one U.S. lawmaker wants the weapons to be made illegal. Sen. Charles Schumer claims the plastic design would make the weapons undetectable by airport scanners.

“Guns are made out of plastic, so they would not be detectable by a metal detector at any airport or sporting event,” Schumer told reporters. “Only metal part of the gun is the little firing pin and that is too small to be detected by metal detectors, for instance, when you go through an airport.” “A terrorist, someone who’s mentally ill, a spousal abuser, a felon can essentially open a gun factory in their garage,” Schumer added.

The weapon can fire a .380 handgun round, but Forbes, which was on hand for the firing, claimed a larger 5.7×28 rifle cartridge was tested, and blew apart The Liberator. 3D printing technology is seen as one future direction for manufacturing. Typically, it takes a digital representation of an object, and recreates it physically by laying down thin layers of material, usually plastics, until the digital file is literally printed in three dimensions. The object could be an iPhone case, a simple tool, a high-capacity magazine, or if Defense Distributed has its way, all the parts for a single-use firearm…

Tony Bernardo, the acting director or the Canadian Shooting Sports Association, said the ability to produce printable firearms won’t be a problem for Canadians.

“It’s a total non-issue,” Bernardo said. “People have been making firearms by hand for 400 years. Many of the firearms that were used in World War I were produced in factories that didn’t even have electricity.”

About:
The CSSA is the voice of the sport shooter and firearms enthusiast in Canada. Our national membership supports and promotes Canada’s firearms heritage, traditional target shooting competition, modern action shooting sports, hunting, and archery. We support and sponsor competitions and youth programs that promote these Canadian heritage activities. Website www.cdnshootingsports.org

Gold Miquelet lock musket belonged to Thomas Jefferson

Buffalo Bill Historical Center

Cody, Wyo., –-(Ammoland.com)- The Buffalo Bill Center of the West, an Affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, is proud to announce the arrival of 64 unique objects from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History’s National Firearms Collection.

This is the first time these one-of-a-kind historical items have appeared together outside of the Smithsonian.

Among these artifacts are numerous patent models documenting innovations in the field, international imagination, and historic distinction. The Center of the West was entrusted with the conservation of these firearms and is honored to display them in the Cody Firearms Museum at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West.

Included in this exhibition is a seven-foot-long gold Miquelet lock musket given to President Thomas Jefferson in 1805 at the beginning of his second term by the Bey of Tunisia after the Tripolitan Wars. Another firearm making its western debut is a beautifully embellished Jaeger rifle that belonged to Catherine the Great of Russia (1729 – 1796). This firearm includes a special touch for her royal highness in the form of a velvet cheek piece to ensure her imperial face would not touch the stock.

In the category of patent innovation is a western cinematic favorite, the Gatling gun. Before inventor Richard Gatling could make his invention a reality, he first created a miniature wooden prototype to submit to the U.S. Patent Office—on display with this collection. This patent was approved in 1862, allowing for the production of the full scale Gatling guns, examples of which can be seen throughout the Cody Firearms Museum.

Also included in the exhibition is the one-of-a-kind Multiblade Folding Knife. Counting the miniatures inside the tortoise shell handle covers, this knife has 100 “blades.” This model includes pocket knife blades of every style imaginable—including a serrated blade, two dagger blades, different types of shears, scissors, two saws, and many other tools. It even has a functional .22-caliber five-shot pinfire revolver.

The Buffalo Bill Center of the West and the Smithsonian Institution invite visitors to explore these firearms that have helped shape our nation and beyond. Both institutions hope interaction with this exhibit helps shape individual perceptions of the invention and production of firearms, and their role in the history of our nation. This exhibition opens this weekend in the Cody Firearms Museum’s lower gallery and will be on display through the fall of 2015.

About the Buffalo Bill Center of the West

Since 1927, the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, formerly known as the Buffalo Bill Historical Center, has been committed to the greatness and growth of the American West, keeping western experiences alive. The Center of the West, an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, weaves the varied threads of the western experience—history and myth, art and Native culture, firearms, and the nature and science of Yellowstone—into the rich panorama that is the American West. The Center of the West has been honored with numerous awards, including the prestigious 2012 National Tour Association’s Award for “favorite museum for groups.” The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is currently operating its summer schedule through September 15: open 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily. For additional information visit www.centerofthewest.org or the Center of the West’s Facebook page.

Defense Distributed Liberator Pistol

Defense Distributed

Austin, TX --(Ammoland.com)- Hello AmmoLand readers, allow me to present Defense Distributed’s printed pistol.

The Liberator.

You can view the video below.

This project is not over. But it’s first goal was achieved in style and ahead of schedule.

Thank you for your interest in our project. I will update the blog today to narrate just how we did it.

Please share the video with your friends and download the files at DEFCAD.org.

Thank you.

Cody RW

About Defense Distributed
The specific purposes for which this corporation is organized are: To defend the civil liberty of popular access to arms as guaranteed by the United States Constitution and affirmed by the United States Supreme Court, through facilitating global access to, and the collaborative production of, information and knowledge related to the 3D printing of arms; and to publish and distribute, at no cost to the public, such information and knowledge in promotion of the public interest. Visit; www.defensedistributed.com

CVA OPTIMA V2 Muzzleloading Rifle Available in Realtree Xtra Green Camo

CVA Muzzleloading Rifles

COLUMBUS, Georgia --(Ammoland.com)- The new OPTIMA V2 may share a name with its predecessor, but this CVA muzzleloading rifle, available in Realtree Xtra Green, has a completely different design and impressive new updates.

Modeled after CVA’s top-of-the-line ACCURA V2, the OPTIMA V2 features the same trigger-guard actuated breeching lever, internal parts and “neutral center- of-gravity” trigger. This muzzleloading rifle also boasts CVA’s Quick Release Breech Plug (which is finger removable without any tool what-so-ever), 100% ambidextrous stock and CrushZone recoil pad, giving it more quality features than any other muzzleloading rifle in its price range. Thanks to a 26″ 416 grade stainless-steel barrel, the OPTIMA V2 is easy to maneuver in the tree stand and comfortable to carry in the mountains. And it comes standard with a DuraSight DEAD-ON one-piece scope mount and CVA’s solid aluminum PalmSaver Ramrod.

Specifications:

• 416 Stainless Steel, Fluted, 26” Barrel
• Bullet Guiding Muzzle
• 100% Ambidextrous Thumbhole (Rifle Only) or Standard Stock
• QRBP – Quick Release Breech Plug
• Reversible Hammer Spur
• CrushZone Recoil Pad (Rifle Only)
• DuraSight DEAD-ON One-Piece Scope Mount or Fiber optic sights (Rifle comes with either or but not both)
• Scope Rail (Pistol)
• 41” Overall Length (Rifle), 14″ Overall Length (Pistol)
• 6.65 lbs. Total Weight (Rifle), 3.7 lbs. Total Weight (Pistol)
• 14” Length of Pull (Rifle)
• Lifetime Warranty

www.cva.com

The Mossberg 590A1 Blackwater Edition Shotgun was built for combat from the ground up.

Unleaded Ink

Arizona --(Ammoland.com)-  Growing up in Delaware hunters were restricted by state law on the use of rifles and handguns for hunting, mainly because Delaware is so flat and densely populated.

Bows, muzzle loaders and shotguns are the choice for many hunters because of their limited range. But what I loved most wasn’t just hunting, it was those lazy summer days cooking hamburgers and hot dogs, drinking lemonade and then retiring to the back 40 and shooting clay pigeons.

They were simple times, but those memories have stuck with me all these many years and I often wish I could return to those days even if for a little while.

The shotgun that was used in my family was the Mossberg 500. For over 50 years Mossberg has been producing shotguns like the 500 series, (Mosseberg recently produced their 10 Millionth 500 Shotgun!), that has been putting dinner on America’s tables and providing hours of recreational shooting for the whole family.

Since 1919 Mossberg has strived to make each firearm better than the generation before utilizing ever changing technologies in firearms manufacturing. This is why today Mossberg carries an ISO 9001 Certification for manufacturing assuring you the highest standards for your money.

Following this line of thinking, it’s no wonder the Mossberg 590 was the shotgun the United States Military picked to equip our soldiers.

Since testing began the 590 series was the only shotgun that met and/or exceeded Mil-S-3443 specifications winning them a coveted government contract. Debates do rage between which shotguns are better and looking at facts not speculation is a good rule of thumb. Being in the firearms business for 92 years and winning a government contract is proof you make a battle worthy shotgun. Even after all those years of kicking out hulls my father’s Mossberg 500 still performs like the day he bought it and I know It will be passed on to my sons one day.

When I received my Mossberg 590A1 Blackwater Edition, I removed it from the box and I was impressed with what I saw. The Mossberg 590A1 is not your daddy’s shotgun; it’s a breed apart from the hunting models, yet built to the same exacting standards. This shotgun is built for battle and would be highly effective in other areas such as executive protection, private security, police and home defense.

The shotgun has always carried a deep respect and instilled fear upon anyone who has heard the racking of a shell into the chamber. Even the sight of the shotgun makes some criminals drop whatever their holding and place their hands in the air.

The Mossberg 590A1 commands respect and an adversary would be very wise to give it that respect because it can deliver its payload of pellets fast with up to nine rounds and four in reserve. I have been asked many times if I could only have three firearms what they would be; I’ll tell you one would be a trustworthy pump action shotgun like the 590A1.

The Mossberg 590A1′s speed feed stock gives you fast access to four rounds.

Since the 590A1 is designed from the ground up as a military grade shotgun it has many features that also appeal to tactical shooters. The polymer stock of the 590A1 Blackwater Edition is a speed feed design, holding up to four extra rounds of your favorite fodder, I prefer slugs or a less lethal combination and since you’re dealing with a pump shotgun it will cycle anything you feed it. A recoil pad comes standard and the stock grip has a pebble grain finish for extra control in wet conditions. My sample had a slightly untrimmed recoil pad that overhung the stock by about 1/16 of an inch and while purely cosmetic, did not affect the performance at all. Some shooters also reported they had problems with the shells falling out of the stock during heavy recoil although I never experienced this during my testing. The springs in the stock are strong and unless they were not inserted correctly and didn’t catch the lip of the shell they won’t fall out.

Running low on ammo, the Mossberg 590A1 Blackwater Edition is set up so you can attach a bayonet as a back up close quarter defense tool.

The 20 inch barrel is a heavy walled cylinder bore, designed to handle up to three inch magnum loads of whatever you feed it. It has two rings attached to the barrel, both stabilize the magazine tube but the rear ring holds the bayonet lug.

Yea, you heard right, bayonet lug! Rifles have them, so why not shotguns.

You can only carry so much ammunition and if you do run out at least you can keep your aggressor at arm’s length with some steel, after all that’s why the military still teaches bayonet fighting techniques and it is better than nothing!

Mossberg 590A1 Ghost Ring Sights

The front sight is an elevated design with what Mossberg calls an AR-style white stripe front sight and is easy to see in daylight conditions. The magazine tube holds up to eight rounds of 2.75 or seven three inch with one in the chamber with a possible load of 9 rounds, 13 if you count the speed feed stock, that’s not a bad load out. The magazine cap serves to hold the muzzle ring of the bayonet and has threads for a sling stud which is easily removed. A word of caution, the sling stud if not thread locked (Lock-Tite) or used with a sling can vibrate out and get lost. The magazine cap can be unscrewed to reveal the magazine spring which can be removed for cleaning and you reserve the option of adding a magazine extension.

The Mossberg 590A1′s fore grip gives you multiple mounting points for accessories.

The forend or forearm is a tri-rail design having a 5 inch Picatinny rail molded into the bottom and two smaller 1.75 inch rails on the left and right side. This makes shooting the 590A1 with a plain foregrip or one with a laser/light combination possible and gives you better control while pumping out the empty hulls. The left and right rails allow you to mount a light and laser separately if you choose to use the forearm as is. I did find it painful to have your thumb behind the left rail while shooting 3 inch magnums; during recoil it tends to jam your thumb pretty good. Just make sure you use a fore grip or keep your thumb under or on the rail or remove it altogether. You may remove both of these rails if not in use and it becomes somewhat flush. The forend is connected to the bolt by twin rails for strength and dependability. Since Mossberg shotguns are so popular, if you don’t like the hardware they provided, the aftermarket parts are easy to find and plentiful for your own custom setup.

Mossberg 590A1 Blackwater Edition Shotgun Trigger Gaurd: The trigger guard is thick and controls are made for combat.

The receiver, trigger guard, safety and action lock lever are all metal for durability. On top of the receiver a Picatinny rail with a XS ghost ring rear sight installed, which is adjustable for windage and elevation. One of the features I like about Mossberg shotguns is the position of the safety; it’s located on the rear of the receiver and is easily accessible with your thumb for either left or right shooters. The receiver also wears the Blackwater bear paw logo on the right ejection port side and the words 590A1 engraved on the left side.  The Mossberg 590A1 series comes equipped with an anti-jam shell elevator and duel extractors for positive hull extraction, so you can be sure when you pull the trigger the next sound you hear will be a good one. All these features give you a shotgun with an overall length of 40.75” and an unloaded weight of about 8 lbs. Add some 2.75” No# 4 Buck and four slugs in the stock and you get a combined weight of 9.25lbs which is about the same weight as a fully loaded 20” Colt AR-15A2 heavy barrel.

The weight will come in handy during recoil and should you need to use the butt stock against an aggressor or to help you with a stubborn door, this shotgun is solid enough to handle it.

At the range I fired everything I could get my hands on from Remington premier target loads in No# 8 shot to Winchester PDX1 12 gauge and everything in between. There is no shortage of names and shot sizes the 590A1 will not digest, so whatever you want or need there is fodder for it close by. The market is flooded with high end specialty loads designed to optimize your shotguns full potential, but my first stop was my local Wal-Mart. I purchased over the counter 12 gauge ammunition like Winchesters 3” 00 Buck (15 Pellet) loads and some Remington Slugger 2.75” 1 oz Rifled Slugs. Ammunition for all firearms has made amazing leaps forward in the last few years and the shotgun is no different. I wanted to test as much as I could and I was not disappointed with the results. I shot most all loads at seven yards out to 25 yards and all the shot landed multiple hits, but what I was most impressed with was the slugs. I fired three rounds of Remington Sluggers at 100 yards and achieved a three shot group of four inches.

100 yrds with a cylinder bore is not bad.

I was told by a few observers that that was impossible with an un-rifled barrel; I’m guessing that myth was laid to rest fairly quickly.

The major benefit to a pump action shotgun is the feeling that whatever you need to shoot in it will function. You just can’t be sure about semi automatic shotguns functioning properly with all rounds and would you bet your life on it? But whether shooting flares, bean bag or door breaching rounds, you have but to rack the slide and you are back in action. It does take some effort to learn the mechanics of a pump gun, but like everything else it just takes time and practice. I own a semi automatic shotgun and I wouldn’t get rid of it for anything, but I believe there are tools best fit for the job. There are more than a few police officers who bet their lives on the pump shoguns they carry every day. If you ask them they will tell you it’s because they know it will work when they need it to and the Mossberg 590A1 was designed to deliver time and time again.

If pump shotguns are really not your style and you must have a tactical semi-automatic shotgun that follows along the same lines as the 590A1, give the Mossberg 930 SPX Blackwater Series a try.

I could not find any faults with the 590A1 other than the few I described; it is a well built shotgun that will serve you for many years. If I could make a few changes in production I would definitely add a speed feed pistol grip stock for greater control. As far as aftermarket additions, I would add a side saddle and a lighted forend most likely Surefire’s 323LM forend or possibly the Crimson Trace MVF-515 Modular Vertical Foregrip with the green laser. Either way you are just making a great shotgun even more versatile and you can customize your 590 to whatever job or mission you need it to perform. I know this 590A1 Blackwater Edition is not going back to Mossberg; I’m having way too much fun with it.

Whatever you buy from Mossberg whether it is a 590A1 Blackwater Edition, Varmint MVP, MMR Hunter or Tactical or the humble 500 series, you can bet it will be a trusted friend and you will pass it on.

Sources:

• Mossberg: www.mossberg.com
• EOTech: www.eotech-inc.com
• Brownells: www.brownells.com

Norman Gray ©2012 POMA Member

About Norman Gray:
Norman Gray has been involved in the shooting sports for well over 30 years. He has served in both active duty and reserve component of the United States Army as an Infantryman and was honorably discharged at the end of his service. Moving to Arizona, he began assisting his long time friend and mentor Bob Shell, an accomplished writer and author in his own right. Norman is freelance contributor with Handguns Magazine, Canadian Firearms Journal and Manzano Valley Outdoors. He is also a member of (POMA) The Professional Outdoor Media Association, the (NSSF) National Shooting Sports Foundation and a Life Member of the (NRA) National Rifle Association. Visit: http://www.unleaded-ink.blogspot.com/

Franchi Intensity ShotGun

Franchi

ACCOKEEK, MD - Franchi’s Intensity is a brand new 3 ½-inch 12-gauge powerhouse featuring the versatile Inertia Driven system.

The new Intensity shotguns embody the feel of smaller gauge guns, which is possible because the recoil spring encircles the magazine tube located forward of the receiver.

This is what keeps recoil in line with the shooter and helps reduce muzzle flip.

The Intensity design incorporates a slender pistol grip, slim fore end, and the kind of precise symmetry that promotes a look and feel that few other shotguns attain or can claim. The Intensity’s slim attractive profile is accomplished by slimming down the dimensions of the durable polymer stock that is impervious to all elements of weather, as well as gun solvents and lubricants.

The Intensity receiver is made of a lightweight, durable aluminum alloy that’s strengthened with steel inserts that ensure a solid steel-to-steel lock-up. The Intensity weighs in at 7.2 pounds, giving this light and lively auto-loader a responsiveness that allows for quick swings and fast follow-up shots. The length-of-pull (LOP) is adjustable with 3 different lengths of recoil pads, affording the option of 14⅜- 14¼- and 15-inch LOP. Drop and cast is adjusted by virtue of a shim kit system. Recoil is tamed with a newly designed recoil pad that is unique in both form and function. This innovative recoil pad ensures that maximum recoil is absorbed before it reaches the shoulder. This sleek semiauto digests everything from 3½-inch Magnums down to 1⅛-ounce target loads.

The Intensity comes with either a 26- or 28-inch barrel and sports a stepped, ventilated-rib, red fiber optic front sight and a set of three extended choke tubes. The Intensity has perfect balance for making quick shots at fast-flying waterfowl, and when your gun handles like it’s second nature, you have the confidence to make shots that put birds in the bag. Shoulder the Intensity to feel how it becomes a natural extension of your arm—you instantly know what “right” feels like. Franchi has total confidence in their shotgun products and stands firmly behind every Intensity with a seven-year warranty.

COMMON SPECIFICATIONS: Gauge: 12-Gauge Barrel Length: 26” & 28” Chokes: IC, M, F Sights: Red fiber optic bar Finish: Black synthetic, Realtree® Max-4™ & Realtree® APG™ Stock Material: Synthetic Average Weight: 7.2 lbs. Overall Length: 47.75” Length of Pull: 14.25” Drop at heel: Adjustable from 2” to 2.5” inches in 4 increments Drop at Comb: 1.5” (Adjustable with shim kit) MSRP: $1099-$1199

For the latest news and product information visit www.franchiusa.com

Franchi’s New 20-GA. Affinity Compact ShotGun – Available in Max-4

Franchi

ACCOKEEK, MD - Franchi’s Affinity Compact is a sleek, perfectly balanced semiautomatic shotgun that’s driven by the ultra-reliable Inertia Driven® system.

This is Franchi’s short-version of the popular Affinity, which integrates form and function to make it the perfect shotgun for young and small-statured shooters.

The responsive Compact features a 26-inch barrel and is finished in Realtree® Max-4™ camo pattern (not pictured above). Its refined design exhibits a slim fore end for a firm grip, which allows a responsiveness that comes with an innovative light, fast and reliable self-loading shotgun. This is a lightweight autoloader that allows for quick reaction and smooth swing among smaller shooters. The Affinity Compact is right at home in every type of shooting situation, whether it’s for hunting birds or busting clay targets.

The key feature of the Compact is its buttstock, which offers a 12 3/8-inch length-of-pull (LOP), and to which included spacers can be added, increasing the LOP to 13 3/8 inch. As a young shooter grows, so grows the gun. When the time is appropriate, a full-size buttstock can be fitted to the Affinity Compact. A shim kit comes standard with the Compact, allowing for adjustment of drop and cast. When the slim and distinctive Affinity Compact is picked up and shouldered the meaning of “feels right” is clear to shooters of any size or age.

COMMON SPECIFICATIONS: Gauge: 20-Gauge Barrel Length: 26” Chokes: IC, M
Sights: Red fiber optic bar Finish: Realtree® Max4™ Stock Material: Synthetic
Average Weight: 5.5 lbs. Overall Length: 43.375” to 44.375” Length of Pull: 12⅜” to 13⅜”
Drop at heel: Adjustable from 2” to 2.5” in 4 increments Drop at Comb: 1.5” (Adjustable with shim kit)
MSRP: $999

For the latest news and product information visit www.franchiusa.com

Mossberg TLS Modular 500 FLEX Shotgun System

Mossberg

North Haven, CT --(Ammoland.com)- On May 3, 2013, O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc, America’s oldest family-owned firearms manufacturer, will be presented with a 2013 Golden Bullseye Award for its ground-breaking, TLS modular 500 FLEX Shotgun System.

Recognized by the staff of the American Rifleman for its innovative, cross-platform versatility, the FLEX Shotgun was named “Tactical Gun of the Year.” The award presentation will be made during the upcoming 2013 NRA Annual Meeting & Exhibits in Houston, Texas.

Presented annually by the NRA Publications division, the Golden Bullseye Awards acknowledge the finest products available in the shooting sports and are a symbol of excellence, innovation and quality. Consideration for a Golden Bullseye Award requires the product to be field-tested by a staff member or regular contributor to the magazine; prove to be reliable in the field; and meet or exceed expectations for design, function and value.

The FLEX Shotgun System is a series of modular 500 and 590® pump-action shotguns and accessories that feature the patented TLS (Tool-less Locking System), three connectors that allow stocks, forends and recoil pads to be interchanged for a variety of shooting applications. With this quick-change system, your FLEX shotgun can easily be converted from a rugged tactical platform to a hunting scattergun to a dedicated home defense gun in seconds!

For more information on the 2013 NRA Annual Meeting & Exhibits, please visit www.nraam.org. To learn more about the FLEX Shotgun System, visit your local Mossberg dealer today or see the complete 500/590 FLEX Series of shotguns and accessories on our web site at http://www.mossberg.com/products/shotguns/pump-action/mossberg-flex.

About O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc.
Founded in 1919, O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc. is the oldest family-owned firearms manufacturer in America, and is the largest pump-action shotgun manufacturer in the world. Leading the way with over 100 design and utility patents to its credit, and standing as the first ISO 9001 Certified long-gun manufacturer, Mossberg is considered to be one of the most innovative firearms manufacturers in U.S. History. For more information on commercial, special purpose, law enforcement and military shotguns, rifles and accessories, please visit their website at www.mossberg.com.

Smith & Wesson M&P40 Pistol

Smith & Wesson

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ: SWHC), a leader in firearm manufacturing and design, today announced that it has been awarded a firearms contract from the San Antonio Police Department for duty side arms from the company’s M&P Pistol Series. The San Antonio Police Department has selected the M&P40 as its new service firearm and has begun to convert officers to the new handgun platform.

As one of the state’s largest police forces with over 2,100 sworn officers, San Antonio joins the ranks of agencies that have converted to the Smith & Wesson M&P pistol. The full-department conversion calls for 2,600 M&P40 pistols chambered in .40 S&W to be delivered to the department. The recent order represents Smith & Wesson’s largest contract to date to an agency in the state of Texas.

The M&P40 pistol was selected by the San Antonio Police Department after an extensive testing and evaluation period, which included comparisons with numerous firearms from various competitors. After thoroughly examining each submission, the department chose the Smith & Wesson M&P pistol based on its high level of quality and dependability. Throughout the assessment process, the M&P pistol was commended for its professional-grade features and performance during live-fire exercises.

James Debney, President and CEO of Smith & Wesson, said, “We are honored that our M&P pistols have been selected by the San Antonio Police Department. Our nation’s first responders are extremely important to us, and they have always been so. These men and women work tirelessly and dedicate their lives to helping keep our communities safe and we are proud to support them with firearms designed to meet their high standards for performance and reliability.”

In addition to supplying the department with new duty sidearms, Smith & Wesson will support the agency with a variety of additional services including armorers’ classes and transitional training for officers. The M&P40 pistols supplied to the San Antonio Police Department include standard features such as customizable grip inserts, ambidextrous operating features and the ability to disassemble the firearm without pulling the trigger.

“Smith & Wesson is proud to support the San Antonio Police Department and its long-standing history of dedicated service to the citizens of Texas,” said Mike Brown, Vice President of U.S. Sales for Smith & Wesson. “From its historic roots, which can be traced back to its foundation in the Texas Rangers, to the department’s highly decorated SWAT team, the San Antonio Police Department has amassed a commendable legacy of active service. Smith & Wesson is committed to providing the most reliable and dependable firearms to law enforcement professionals. As an American owned and operated supplier of law enforcement duty pistols, we look forward to a long and prosperous relationship with the San Antonio Police Department.

For more information on the robust line of M&P Pistols, please visit www.smith-wesson.com.

About Smith & Wesson
Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC) is a U.S.-based leader in firearm manufacturing and design, delivering a broad portfolio of quality firearms, related products and training to the consumer, law enforcement, and military markets. The company’s brands include Smith & Wesson®, M&P® and Thompson/Center Arms™. Smith & Wesson facilities are located in Massachusetts and Maine. For more information on Smith & Wesson, call (800) 331-0852 or log on to www.smith-wesson.com.

Dakota Model 76 PH Professional Hunter Rifle

Dakota Arms

Sturgis, SD –-(Ammoland.com)- New for 2013, Dakota is proud to announce the expansion of the Model 76 line of bolt-action rifles to include the Model 76 Professional Hunter (PH) – a rugged, precision-crafted composite stock version.

Celebrating over 25 years at the pinnacle of bolt-action form and function, the Dakota Model 76 exemplifies the very best of bolt-action innovation with the exquisite lines and impeccable shot-to-shot precision.  Created only through the individual attention of Dakota craftsmen, the Model 76 action combines the best features of the pre-64 Model 70, with a Mauser-type extractor for controlled round feed and ultra-positive extraction.

The Dakota Model 76 PH was developed to be a true workhorse while keeping with Dakota’s standards of craftsmanship and attention to detail.  The Model 76 PH represents a rifle that you can expose to the most rugged hunting conditions imaginable without concern.

The Dakota Model 76PH has a suggested retail price of $7,995.

Model 76 Professional Hunter Key Features:

• Trusted Model 76 action, right or left hand
• Rugged, custom, pillar bedded fiberglass stock with cheek piece
• 23-inch Douglas premium stainless barrel
• Quarter rib with one fixed blade and banded/hooded front sight with fiber optic bead and window hood
• Barrel band
• Available in 375 H&H, 404 Jeffery, 416 Remington, 416 Rigby, 458 Lott, 450 Dakota, 450 Rigby
• Cerakote matte Black
• 14-inch length of pull (lop) standard
• 1-inch black decelerator pad

About Dakota Arms
Established in 1982 and headquartered in Sturgis, South Dakota, Dakota Arms is the leading manufacturer of custom rifles for the sporting markets. The Dakota product lines are universally recognized for outstanding quality, design, accuracy and aesthetic appeal. The Dakota brands include Nesika, and Miller Arms. Nesika Bay Precision actions and rifles renowned for their exceptional accuracy; Miller Arms is known for the reliability and performance of its single-shot actions and custom rifles. Visit: www.dakotaarms.com

Thompson Custom 1911

Thompson Auto-Ordnance

Pearl River, NY –-(Ammoland.com)- USA based Kahr Firearms Group is proud to announce the re-introduction of the Thompson Custom 1911 with stainless steel frame and slide.

The pistol was first introduced in early 2008 with a limited production run of 100 units.

After the 2008 presidential election, production shifted away from the 1911TC in order to meet increasing high demand for concealed carry pistols. Improved manufacturing processes over the past 5 years, including the use of high-precision equipment with fewer set-ups, has reduced the cost to appeal to consumers without sacrificing quality or consistency in the performance.

The Thompson Custom 1911 frame is made from 420 stainless steel casting and the slide features a solid stainless steel billet. The 1911TC features black low-profile front and rear iron sights that are dovetailed into the slide. The ejection port is flared and the slide has front and rear serrations machined at a slight angle. The mainspring housing is checkered and the front strap is machined checkered at 20 lines per inch. Additional features include an adjustable trigger, combat hammer, full-length recoil guide rod, extended beavertail grip safety; extended magazine release; checkered laminate grips and a checkered slide stop lever.

The .45 ACP has a 5” barrel – length is 8.5” overall and weighs just 39 oz. The 1911TC is shipped with one 7-round magazine. Finishing features include an attractive matte finish on the frame and slide and the markings are laser-engraved, including the distinctive Thompson bullet logo on the slide, and a Thompson bullet logo inlay on the grip.  MSRP on the Thompson Custom 1911 stainless frame is $813.00.

For more information on the complete line of Auto Ordnance products, please visit www.auto-ordnance.com.

U.S. Colt Walker Model 1847 revolver. This lot commanded the highest price of the weekend, at $138,000,

Rock Island Auction Company

ROCK ISLAND, IL --(Ammoland.com)- Rock Island Auction Company set the firearms market ablaze once again at their inaugural 2013 Premiere Firearms auction held April 19, 20 & 21.

“In the auction business we know each sale is different. Every auction has different challenges and uncertainties and this sale was no different in that respect” said Patrick Hogan President and CEO of Rock Island Auction Company.

What Hogan was referring to were the large number of named collections, which included, The Charles Lindley Collection of German Military Arms, Gary Cote Collection of Winchester 1894’s, The Anthony Urbanowski Collection of Smith & Wesson’s and the auctions most daunting yet most anticipated collection, The William Ashby Collection of Arms and Armor. Before the sale, puns had been made in reference to the many knights in shining armor, as the sale touted nearly 30 full suits of composite and Victorian armor. Well, ‘shine’ they did as the collection grossed just under its high estimate totaling $1,033,000 in sales.

Over the course of the three day auction hundreds of bidders from nearly every corner of the globe converged on to Rock Island Auctions preview floor to inspect, bid, and with any luck take a few of the amazing pieces home with them. In addition to those who made the trip to bid live, nearly 15,000 sealed, telephone and internet bids were placed with RIAC over the course of the three days. “The response from the collecting community and those savvy investment buyers was spectacular. This auction set a record for us not only as the most absentee bids placed in a Premiere auction but we had 930 successful bidders” said Hogan.

The highest grossing item of the week was Lot number 3069, which was the scarce and desirable documented U.S. Colt Walker Model 1847 revolver. This lot commanded not only the highest price of the weekend, at $138,000, but also one of the most intense bidding wars as bidder cards seemed to shoot up almost simultaneously around the room.

“It was a classic war of attrition as bidders bowed out at $100,000, and it was between two determined phone bidders” said Kevin Hogan, Patrick’s son and fellow auctioneer.

Other Colt firearms also commanded large sums – Lot 1091, the finest pair of U.S. Martially Inspected Colt 2nd Model Dragoon Revolvers brought $115,000, Lot 1412, the rare Bertrand Couch factory engraved and gold inlaid revolver brought $109,250, while a Patterson No. 3 Belt Model Pistol, which was estimated from $30,000-40,000 realized $54,000.

Rock Island Auction Company

Colt firearms were just the beginning, as Winchester firearms were also in high demand. A beautiful collection of Winchester Model 1887 Shotguns experienced quite a bit of interest as Lot 1025, a Special Order 20 inch Winchester Model 1887 shotgun in phenomenal condition estimated $25,000-$37,500 brought $54,625, while Lot 1026, one of only five factory engraved Winchester Model 1887 shotguns, rang the bell at $97,750. Yet shotguns were only the beginning, as the world famous Winchester Model 70 experienced a banner weekend. In total 12 different Model 70 rifle and carbine variations all brought over $15,000 apiece. Most notably were Lot 1739, the only known Pre-64 carbine in 7.92 mm caliber, which brought $31,626 while a factory engraved and gold inlaid Model 70 Super Grade commanded $28,750. Other notable sales in the Winchester collecting genre include two different Henry Rifle variations – Lot 3017, an exceptionally rare, iron frame Henry, which brought $109,250, while an equally rare documented Civil War engraved Henry achieved $74,750.

As for the Ashby Collection, interest poured in from around the globe as RIAC staff worked tirelessly over the last several weeks leading up to the sale answering questions and taking additional photos. In the end all the hard work paid off, as the Ashby collection far exceeded expectations. The two top selling suits of armor were Lot 1244, which commanded $34,500 while Lot 1235 reached $28,750. However, it wasn’t just the armor that brought in the attention, an elaborately inlaid and engraved wheelock Tschinke rifle, Lot 1227 brought $21,850, while Lot 1245 an impressive European wheelock sporting gun with extensive bone inlays estimated at $6500-$8500 far commanded a staggering $34,500.

Last, but certainly not least, were the military arms from around the world which continue to draw record breaking interest and likewise tremendous results. Starting with U.S. arms from as early as the Civil War, Lot 1098, which was the finest Civil War Spencer Rifle RIAC has ever cataloged, was estimated $20,000-$30,000 and a achieved an impressive $48,875, as a determined floor bidder eventually conceded defeat and saw the item sell to the phones. Lot number 1848, which was a magnificent and early U.S. Navy Marked Colt Model 1911 estimated $18,000-$27,500 brought $51,750, while an equally rare 1903 Mark I Rifle with original Pederson device brought $69,000. Likewise other military arms from abroad saw similar results. Lot 1463, a historically significant Swiss Model 1894 Mondragon reached $37,375, while a pair of experimental Japanese Pedersen rifle and carbine both serial number 5 each realized $31,625. German military arms also had a strong showing, as Lot 3576, a beautiful American eagle Artillery luger brought $51,750. A unique full crate of thirty P38 pistols brought $25,875, and a rare pair of consecutively property marked Kreigsmarine Mauser Lugers realized $37,375. For more information regarding this sale or interest in selling with Rock Island Auction Company call 800-238-8022 or visit www.rockislandauction.com.

Rock Island Auction Company is the nation’s leading auction house for firearms, edged weapons and military artifacts. RIAC caters to all levels of collecting, a $1000 item or $1 million item is welcome as firearms specialists are on staff and more than one auction venue is available to accommodate varying needs. RIAC works with advisors, estates and collectors and is prepared to buy single firearms and collections outright and/or can sell through private treaty. There is no limit to what RIAC can buy. To find out more please visit www.rockislandauction.com or call 1-800-238-8022.

Winchester Super X Pump Marine Defender Shotgun

Winchester Repeating Arms

Morgan, UT --(Ammoland.com)- The new Super X Pump Marine Defender from Winchester Repeating Arms is ready for any weather while on the water, for home protection and competition shooting.

The SXP Marine Defender features an inertia-assisted action for faster cycling of shells. Matte Hard Chrome Plating on the barrel and magazine tube offers excellent protection against the elements. A drop out trigger group allows for easy cleaning.

The Super X Pump has an 18″ barrel and uses the Invector-Plus choke system. A cylinder choke is installed, allowing the SXP to shoot anything from slugs to buck shot. The magazine holds a total of five shells and a removable TruGlo fiber-optic front sight is included.

The Super X Pump is drilled and tapped for scope bases. For better handling in all weather conditions, a tactical ribbed forearm gives you more control. The Synthetic stock also features a textured gripping surfaces and has an Inflex Technology Recoil Pad.

Suggested Retail Price is $399.99.

Long Lines at the 2013 Syracuse NY Gun Show

AmmoLand Gun News

Washington DC - -(Ammoland.com)- The surge in gun and ammo purchases that began after Sandy Hook and continued through the Senate’s failed gun control vote appears to have picked up steam again following the Boston Marathon bombing.

For example, at the Syracuse Gun Show on the New York State Fairgrounds last weekend, so many people showed up that some had to wait in line more than two hours just to get into the gun show. Those that waited did so on a windy day, amid sleet and snow flurries.

Moreover, for this specific gun show, few people came to sell guns; most came to buy them and find the ammo they needed for their guns at home.

Jeff Dillard, who runs the National Armory in Pompano Beach, FL, said the combination of the “terrorist attacks” and possible gun control legislation put people into a “panic situation” again.

He said acquiring ammunition and ammunition components is getting more and more difficult: “Our [ammunition] vendors are telling us not only are they out of stock but some are two to three million [bullets] in back order. They won’t even take our orders because they don’t know when they’ll be able to fill them.”

About:
AWR Hawkins writes for all the BIG sites, for Pajamas Media, for RedCounty.com, for Townhall.com and now AmmoLand Shooting Sports News.

His southern drawl is frequently heard discussing his take on current events on radio shows like America’s Morning News, the G. Gordon Liddy Show, the Ken Pittman Show, and the NRA’s Cam & Company, among others. He was a Visiting Fellow at the Russell Kirk Center for Cultural Renewal (summer 2010), and he holds a PhD in military history from Texas Tech University.

If you have questions or comments, email him at awr@awrhawkins.com. You can find him on facebook at www.facebook.com/awr.hawkins.

ATI FX 45 Titan Lightweight 1911 Pistol

American Tactical Imports

ROCHESTER, NY –-(Ammoland.com)- American Tactical Imports is proud to introduce the FX 45 Titan Lightweight, exclusively from ATI.

The new Titan LW weights only 24.8 ounces empty, making it ideal for conceal carry situations.

The lightweight version of the popular Titan is an officers model 1911 pistol with 3.13” barrel length, 3 3/8” bull barrel and an overall length of 6.93”. The Titan Lightweight is packed with features like an ambidextrous safety and dovetail style low-profile rear sights. The Titan Lightweight offers a 7 round capacity in 45ACP.

“We are very excited about the Titan Lightweight,” says Tony DiChario, President, American Tactical Imports.

“This version of our popular FX 45 Titan has been in the works for a long time. It is developed for either a left or a right handed shooter, and it gives traditional 1911 lovers a lightweight, short barreled version for every day carry.”

The FX45 Titan LW has an MSRP of $597.95.

For more information and to see the full lineup of American Tactical Imports products, please visit www.americantactical.us

TriStar Viper G2 Left-Handed Semi-Automatic Shotguns

Tristar Sporting Arms

North Kansas City, Mo. - -(Ammoland.com)- In 2013, the TriStar Arms Viper G2 semi-automatic line will include left-handed models in both a synthetic stock and camouflage stock.

The new Viper G2 for left-handed shooters will offer the same great features the standard right-handed models have always offered with fiber optic front sights, a chrome-lined chamber and barrel, vented ribs and a manual E-Z Load magazine cut-off.

“The Viper G2 has proven to be dependable when hunting game birds and shooting sporting clays since the product was first launched in 2009,” said Gus Bader, owner of TriStar Arms.  “For any hunter or target shooter who is interested in a firearm with multiple functions, superior construction and is a fraction of the cost of other guns with the same features, the Viper G2 is it.”

Both the camouflage and synthetic models have 3″ chambers to take 2 3/4″ or 3″ shells and every gun comes with three standard choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified and Full).

All TriStar shotguns are backed by a five-year warranty offered under the TriStar Sporting Arms license. The warranty does not extend to obvious abuse or misuse of the firearm or if the firearm is used for any purpose other than hunting, competition or sporting situations.

TriStar is a primary importer of quality shotguns and handguns, and offers a great selection of firearms for hunters and recreational shooters.

For more information about TriStar Arms and its products, visit www.tristararms.com.

FBI Gun Collection – The gun collection was created in 1933, a year after the FBI launched the Technical Crime Laboratory, a forerunner to today’s FBI Lab. The new Lab’s mission was to apply a scientific standard to criminal investigations—collecting fingerprints, shoe treads, typefaces, and handwriting samples and comparing them against reference collections of known samples. Gathering known samples of firearms was a logical next step for the Lab, and on October 1, the reference collection officially began.

Federal Bureau of Investigation

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- If every gun tells a story, the FBI’s reference firearms collection could fill a very, very large book.

The inventory of more than 7,000 firearms —curated over 80 years— contains just about every make and model, from John Dillinger’s Prohibition-era revolver to the modern battlefield’s M16 and almost everything in between.

Housed at the FBI Laboratory in Quantico, Virginia, the racks of weapons are not a musty exhibit of museum pieces, though some rare items would certainly qualify. Rather, the ever-expanding collection is a hands-on reference catalog for the Lab’s firearms examiners to study, take apart, reassemble, and test fire to support investigations. By maintaining a working library of virtually every handgun and rifle—along with a database of their unique toolmarks—examiners are able to identify and substantiate for investigators what weapons may have been used in criminal acts.

“Oftentimes this collection is used in active cases in comparing known samples from our collection with question samples from the field,” said John Webb, a firearms examiner in the Lab’s Firearms/Toolmarks Unit. “Often, an investigator will receive a part of a firearm or a firearm that isn’t functional. We can take that and compare it with our reference collection, determine what isn’t functioning, and repair it so we can obtain the test fires we need to conduct examinations with bullets and cartridge cases.”

Most of the firearms come from closed investigations, though some are purchased and still others arrive as donations. In most closed cases, guns that were held as evidence in court are sent back to the Lab, where examiners can add them to the reference collection (whole or in parts) or have them destroyed. By continuously adding new pieces to the collection, the FBI aims to have a duplicate of every firearm. Sometimes a case could hinge on linking a firearm component to a similar part on a reference gun.

“The collection has been extremely useful in criminal cases, not only for an examiner’s experience and education in handling nearly every firearm case that comes into the Laboratory,” said Webb, “but it has been directly responsible for assisting to solve crimes.”

The collection goes beyond firearms and includes accessories like suppressors, magazines, and muzzle attachments, as well as grenade and rocket launchers. Another reference collection, the standard ammunition file, catalogs more than 15,000 types of commercial and military ammunition.

While the breadth of the firearms collection is noteworthy, the historic provenance of some of the weapons shows it’s a truly unique cache. Here you will find John Dillinger’s .45-caliber revolver, Ma Barker and her gang’s arsenal, and “Pretty Boy” Floyd’s Colt 1911. There’s an old Thompson submachine gun hidden in a guitar case, and a pistol hidden in the cut pages of a rare first edition of Gone with the Wind.

These aren’t the most important weapons in the collection, however. Examiners will tell you the single most important piece—in a collection that spans more than a century of firearms history and ingenuity—is the one that helps investigators close a case on any given day. The same philosophy has informed the Lab’s meticulous stewardship of the collection for eight decades.

“We are only a small part of this collection,” Webb said. “It was here long before I was, and it will be here long after I’m gone.”

View the Photo Slide Show from teh Collection: http://tiny.cc/ddzqvw

Paul Markel Armed on Vacation

Student of the Gun

LUVERNE, AL --(Ammoland.com)- We all know that crime and evil don’t take a vacation.

Bad things can and do happen anytime anywhere.

It is we, the good guys, who like to put our minds and bodies at ease and take a vacation from day to day responsibilities.

If you are serious about self preservation and if you are reading this I’m guessing that you are, you cannot take a vacation from preparing to dealing with villainy.

There is paranoid and there is prepared. My vote is for being prepared.

Armed on Vacation?
The very nature of a vacation dictates that you will be taking a break from the norm and most often traveling away from your home and comfort zone. It is easy to fall into the mental trap thinking that since you are on vacation so is any potential trouble. When you take a moment to consider the situation, it seems silly to send your ‘defensive mind’ on vacation, but people do it all the time.

If you are still with me and understand that you need to be just as prepared to deal with evil while away as you are at home, let’s take a few moments to consider some practical guns and gear. For your edification we’ll consider clothing as well.

Hardware
I know you want to read about guns, so let’s knock that out first. Unless you are taking some type of winter holiday, chances are good that wherever you choose to vacation it will be warm or downright hot. Let’s face it; we human animals gravitate toward warm and sunny for our getaways. That means minimum clothing and little opportunity for layered cover garments.

The prerequisites for firearms will be compact, light-weight, and hopefully rust-resistant. That they are fully functional and reliable should be a given.

It is arguably difficult to make blind recommendations for concealed carry because everyone out there has a different body type. Some folks can conceal a 38 ounce, solid steel M1911 on their person without any trouble. Many cannot.

The author’s GLOCK 19 conceals very well under light clothing in a Crossbreed Super Tuck holster.

Fighting Pistol
To my thinking, the GLOCK 19 is the benchmark. Think about it, when describing a compact pistols how often have heard “it’s just a little smaller (or larger) than a GLOCK 19”. If you can conceal a G19 while wearing shorts and a T-shirt you are doing well.

A GLOCK 19 only weighs 21 ounces (empty) and the frame is polymer which makes it lighter and inherently rust-proof. The metal finish that GLOCK applies to their slides also makes them as rust-resistant as you could ask for from a factory gun.

My personal GLOCK 19 carries extremely well in a Crossbreek SuperTuck Holster. When combined with a quality belt, I can get away with shorts and a loose fitting, dark colored T-shirt. My favorite personal defense load for a 9x19mm is any factory ammunition that launches Barnes Bullets 100 percent copper controlled expansion projectiles at greater than 1100 FPS.

Classic Wheelguns: S&W Airweight (left) and Ruger LCR (right)

Wheelguns
When the subject turns to pocket guns, it’s hard to argue against the J-framed revolver or the new Ruger LCR Revolver. The polymer framed LCR is lighter than even the “Airweight” J-frame from S&W. The LCR is 13 ounces and the Airweight Model 642 is 15 ounces. While a 5-shot, double-action revolver is a minimalist or optimist’s handgun, it certainly beats a sharp stick. The compact revolver is generally paired up with another firearm of equal or greater abilities.

In the pocket holster department, Tuff Products is absolutely doing it right. The Pocket-Roo Holster from Tuff comes in various configurations and is worth every penny of the modest price. I’ve been using a Pocket-Roo for a J-frame as well as one for a .380 acp pistol for better than two years now. They are as near to perfect as a pocket scabbard can be. As for ammunition, I would definitely load my revolver with some type of ammo that uses a nickel case (silver color) Federal, Speer, Winchester, and Hornady make worthy loads for the .38 Special.

A lifejacket gun; KelTec P3AT with Tuff Products pocket holster.

The Other Pocket Guns
When it comes to pocket pistols, the .380 acp is as popular today as it ever has been. There are three primary contenders for the Pocket .380 crown; the KelTec P3AT, Ruger LCP, and the more recent Diamondback DB380. You’ll get a half a dozen 9mm short rounds from each one. Yes, you can top off on a fully loaded magazine but, decades of experience have taught me not to rely on it.

A pocket .380 is akin to a life-jacket. If I were on a sinking ship I would much rather be in a lifeboat than bobbing around like a cork with a life-jacket. However, between a life-jacket and nothing I’ll take the former. Between a pocket .380 and nothing, again I’ll go with the former, but I’d rather have the lifeboat G19 in hand, if possible.

The preferred pocket scabbard for the little .380 guns is again the Tuff Produces Pocket-Roo. In my personal .380 acp pistol I carry Hornady “Critical Defense” ammunition. Don’t expect to kill elephants with this gun, but again it’s better than a sharp stick.

Never leave home without a knife. The Spyderco Tasman (left) is made of rust-proof H1 steel, the Spyderco Manix (right) is a serious cutting tool.

What to Wear
In the clothing department, if I’m going to be in shorts I’ll always lean toward a multi-pocket version such as those from Blackhawk or Woolrich Elite. The front pockets are purposely designed to accommodate a compact revolver or pistol in a pocket scabbard. Many conventional shorts and pants have restrictively tight pocket openings.

I like to secret all of my other stuff in the various accessory pockets. In addition to a firearm you should have either spare ammunition or a second gun. I also never leave home without a quality folding knife. We spend something like half of our lives in the dark, hence the reason I’m rarely without some form of compact flashlight. The SureFire Backup has been my ‘go to’ for years but the new Brite-Stike Executive Light EPLI has serious merit.

As for shirts, again Blackhawk and Woolrich Elite make loose-fitting, collared shirts that are tailored at the waste and can be left untucked without looking slovenly. As I am rarely sans holstered pistol, my shirt is not often every tucked in. If you are looking for quality concealed carry clothing that doesn’t look “tactical” the 1700 line of shirts from Blackhawk has much to offer.

Parting Thoughts
Just because you take a holiday from your everyday cares and concerns does not mean you can shelve your defensive mindset or your situational awareness. While you might spend a week or two mingling with the sheep, you don’t have act like one.

Crime and evil never take a holiday and you cannot sterilize the world. The best you can do is to be prepared to deal with whatever comes your way.

Paul G. Markel © 2013

Follow Paul Markel at Student of the Gun.com .

SAM7R-61N semi-automatic rifle

Arsenal Inc

Las Vegas, NV --(Ammoland.com)- With another tax season ready to wrap up, Arsenal, Inc. decided on a “return” that favors the East Coast with a rifle specifically created for the residents of New Jersey.

The SAM7R-61N semi-automatic rifle comes with the same high quality and standard synonymous with Arsenal of Bulgaria — while factoring in some features that make it more widely available in the US.

The 7.62 x 39mm AK-style rifle has a milled and forged receiver, chrome-lined, hammer-forged barrel, and trap door, intermediate length butt stock.

To be compliant with New Jersey law, the rifle was built without an accessory lug and the muzzle brake was permanently attached.

SPECIFICATIONS

• • Caliber: 7.62 x 39 mm
• • Total Length: 927mm (36.5”)
• • Barrel Length: 415 mm
• • Weight without Magazine: 3.67kg (8 lbs.)
• • Muzzle Velocity: 710 m/s
• • Rate of Fire (practical): 40 rds/min
• • Twist Rate: 1 in 240 mm
• • Effective Range: 400 m
• • Max Effective Range: 1350

Made with black polymer furniture, the SAM7R-61N also comes with a cleaning rod, scope rail, sling, oil bottle, cleaning kit and one 10-round magazine. The configuration of this rifle also makes it compliant with the laws of Massachusetts.

Retail Price: $1349.00

ABOUT ARSENAL INC.
Arsenal, Inc. is the exclusive licensed US manufacturer of the finest, most authentic firearms for government agencies and the shooting public; and uses the latest technology and materials in conjunction with the legendary standards of Arsenal of Bulgaria.

All models made in the US are semi-automatic, shoulder-fired, gas-operated, magazine-fed rifles and pistols built on forged, milled receivers and implement CNC technology. A wide variety of models are available in calibers 7.62 x 39mm, 5.56 x 45mm, and 5.45 x 39.5mm. Unless made for a specific product, all Arsenal firearms accept standard high-capacity double stack magazines. Rifles come in several barrel lengths including, three calibers and with fixed or folding stocks. Arsenal also now produces a line of rifles incorporating stamped receivers that offer an economically priced alternative to the traditional forged and milled construction.

Arsenal Inc., may be found online at www.arsenalinc.com and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/arsenalinc. Contact Arsenal Inc. either by phone at (702) 643-2703 or by email at mailto:customerservice@arsenalinc.com

K-VAR SAM7K-02 AK Pistol

K-VAR

LAS VEGAS --(Ammoland.com)- Continuing with plans to expand the SAM7K series, K-VAR added another AK pistol to its product line and is now available to customers.

The SAM7K-02 enters the mix sporting a tactical hand guard with attached flashlight that allows shooting enthusiasts to easily locate the target.

The hand guard (sku: KR-016B) is the original Bulgarian hand guard set that includes the latest generation design lower hand guard with flash light made from mil-spec black polymer. The integrated flash light emits a very bright glow for fast target acquisition. The flashlight uses two 3 Volt lithium batteries (CR 123 ASL) and is designed for milled-receiver Krinkovs.

The 7.62 x 39mm, semi-automatic pistol keeps the same outstanding integrity and specifications as the original SAM7K that includes a hot-die, hammer-forged) milled receiver, short gas system, front sight block / gas block combination, 10 1/2 inch chrome lined hammer forged barrel, black polymer furniture, original pistol grip made to work with ambidextrous safety lever, peep rear sight and scope rail. Addition specifications include:

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Caliber: 7.62 x 39 mm (.223)
• Total Length : 506 mm (20 in.)
• Barrel Length: 267 mm (10 1/2 in.)
• Weight without Magazine: 3.67kg (8 lbs.)
• Muzzle Velocity: 710 m/s (2329 fps)
• Rate of Fire (practical): 40 rds/min
• Twist Rate: 1 in 240 mm
• Effective Range: 400 m (547 yds)
• Max Effective Range: 1100 m (1480 yds)

RETAIL PRICE: $1,499
PHOTO CREDIT: K-VAR Corp.

SAM7K-02 PISTOLSAM7K-02 PISTOL

K-VAR SAM7K-02 AK Pistol

ABOUT K-VAR CORP.
K-VAR Corp. is an online retailer in the firearms industry and one of the nation’s largest suppliers of quality firearms, part and accessories. In conjunction with the famous Kalashnikov pattern, K-VAR Corp. provides a wide range of semi-automatic AK 47 rifles, AK 74 rifles, AK shotguns and AK pistols; along with the ability to interchange parts with other Kalashnikov variants to suit customer needs.

K-VAR Corp. also provides a wide variety of the most optimum genuine parts matched for milled and stamped receivers which include the best in Bulgarian AK 47 and AK 74 (semi-automatic) style part sets, RPK part sets and military stock sets. Attachments and variants of the outstanding Kalashnikov rifle — including flash hiders, scope mounts and AK Magazines are also made available through K-VAR Corp.

Online, K-VAR Corp can be found at www.k-var.com. The company can be reached by phone at (702) 364-8880 or by email at customerservice@k-var.com.

Interact with K-VAR Corp. on various Social Media channels including Facebook at www.facebook.com/k-varcorp, Twitter at www.twitter.com/kvarcorp, Google + at https://plus.google.com/100825262728898322532, LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/k-var-corp- and Pinterest at www.pinterest.com/kvarcorp.

The Gilmore Gun – Browning Challenger Two.22 LR semi-automatic pisto

The Gilmore Gun- Echo of Murder

USA --(Ammoland.com)- With any collectible items we all have our favorites be it cars, coins, art, guns or whatever it may be.

And as with any of these objects we all have our favorite maker, model, year of production, artist, etc.

Whether it’s because grandpa, grandma, dad, mom or some other person’s influence in our life may have had this similar interest and perhaps sparked the beginning of ours. Our interests may be sentimental, historical, etc. but we generally consider the value as one of most important factors.

This article is about one rare and unique firearm which has been tagged the Gilmore Gun.

The Gilmore Gun is a Browning Challenger Two.22 LR semi-automatic pistol.

It takes time for a historical event to become well known throughout the country or the world. Many times the person involved with the event is deceased, which increases the collectible’s value even further because we know there will be no other such items. Collectibles involving famous people and events increase in value over time—more than items without this verifiable type of recognition. When a collectible has intriguing historical recognition and connection, along with absolute documentation, then the collectible is “the best of the best.” There are a limited number of items that are historically significant and, at the same time, are positively documented.

These types of collectibles are rare, desirable, and valuable. The Gilmore Gun has all of these attributes.

Photo #6 Gary Gilmore

In the spring of 1976 Gary Mark Gilmore was released from an Illinois prison on a parole agreement to the care of his relatives in Provo, Utah. He was thirty five years old and had already spent the majority of his life incarcerated. A few months later in July 1976 he robbed and murdered two young men on consecutive days. He was quickly apprehended denying his guilt but shortly after confessed to his crimes, later stating if he had not been caught he would have killed again.

Two weeks prior to Gilmore’s terrible crimes the Supreme Court had reinstated capital punishment after ten years of no executions in all of America. This tragedy has an inimitable place in American history for multiple reasons. Gilmore refused all appeals for the murders he committed insisting on the death penalty which he received by firing squad, his choice over hanging, within six months of his trial making him the test case to bring back the death penalty the only time it had been halted nation wide in American history.

He used the same pistol for both murders and after the case and execution the court returned the the murder weapon to the store owner Gilmore had burglarized.

Which in most rational peoples opinion seems fair and logical, but has seldom happened throughout our history.

The store owner hid the pistol away for 25 years before asking a local gun dealer and long time friend to sell the gun for him. After some research the pistol was placed on a popular internet gun auction receiving a bid for $500,000.00 but did not meet the reserve or asking price. A few months later the gun was first shown at a Las Vegas gun show.

The Gilmore gun at a Las Vegas gun show.

The gun dealer, Dennis Stilson later purchased the pistol from the original owner. In 2008 the pistol was again listed on an internet auction reaching $780,000.00 but was still insufficient to reach the asking price.

Stilson had numerous personal and professional ties with Gilmore’s family and others involved with the Gilmore’s case. He wrote a book titled “The Gilmore Gun – Echo of murder.”

Articles depicting the Gilmore account covered the world in such magazines as Time, New times, Criminal Mind, Playboy, Rolling Stone, People and many more.

There were also the books and movies solidifying both the unique and bizarre aspects of this memorable case. The most prominent book is by Norman Mailer titled “The Executioners Song” and won the Pulitzer prize.

A TV movie by the same title starring Tommy Lee Jones won him an Emmy and a nomination for his co-star Rosanna Arquette. One of the cover photos used for the movie shows Tommy Lee Jones holding and pointing the Gilmore Gun.

The case that reinstated capital punishment in America should be remembered. It is a shame that this historically rare and important story is not part of our general educational history books and makes a statement of our lack of the pursuit of truth.

The fact remains no other gun has been involved in any case that legally affected so many at such a legitimate level affecting laws that we still live by today. Committing the most horrendous crime resulting in the most severe punishment.

Other guns have certainly been used to murder more prominent historical or recognized victims but that is a bit of a different niche, this pistol reflects more of the legal or law affecting and social-political ramifications making it a very rare firearm indeed.

There is only one Gilmore Gun.

For more details about this story see the website at www.gilmoregun.com

Morgan, UT (AmmoLand.com)- Beginning in 2013, Browning will introduce a new High Grade Program.  Each year, two exquisite firearms will be added to the line.  These limited editions will include additional engraving, gold accents, high-grade wood and other features that separate them from standard models.  Two Citori 725 models are kicking off the program for 2013. They include a Grade III and Grade V, both in 12 gauge with 26” or 28” barrel lengths.

The new Grade III 725 receiver has a silver nitride finish and features high-relief engraving of pheasants on the left and mallards on the right with a dog on the bottom.  The stock and forearm feature Grade III/IV walnut with gloss finish and sharp 20 lines-per-inch checkering.  Suggested Retail is $3,729.99.

The Grade V 725 High Grade receiver features full coverage, high-relief engraving with gold enhanced pheasants on the left and mallards on the right.  The stock and forearm feature Grade V/VI walnut with sharp 22 lines-per-inch checkering. The Grade V also comes with a High Grade Canvas/Crazy Horse Leather gun case.  The case has a solid wood frame, canvas covering and features high grade leather on the borders, handles and fastening straps.  The liner is made of soft wool and the case has solid brass hinges and combination locks. Suggested Retail $5,599.99.

For more information on Browning products, please visit the website at www.browning.com.

Concealed Carry Magazine To Give Away A Gun Each Day in April 2013

US Concealed Carry Association

Jackson, WI --(Ammoland.com)- Continued threats to our 2nd Amendment rights make the “30 Guns in 30 Days Giveaway” that the US Concealed Carry Association is doing cutting-edge and noteworthy.

The USCCA Publishes Concealed Carry Magazine, which has grown to over 70,000 subscribers due to their dedication to provide the most valuable resource an armed citizen can buy.

They’ve teamed up with the biggest names in the self-defense and preparedness industry. Their expertise helps armed citizens all across America to become responsibly armed protectors of themselves and their loved ones.

Concealed Carry Magazine helps responsible gun owners by covering topics such as: determining which concealed carry gun and holster are right for them, how to properly carry concealed, understanding the legal consequences of carrying concealed, training, drills, and exercises to help make armed citizens more proficient and better prepared for a violent encounter and unbiased gun, gear, and holster reviews.

And in April the magazine is giving away one free gun every single day! For more information on this promotion, please visit www.concealedcarrymagazine.com

Winchester Repeating Arms Tax Rebate

Winchester Repeating Arms

Morgan, Utah – -(Ammoland.com)- When you buy a new Winchester firearm at retail between April 15 and April 30, 2013, you can receive a rebate of up to 8% of the purchase price to reimburse you for the state sales tax.

That’s just like putting the sales tax right back in your pocket.

See your Winchester dealer for more information on how to beat the tax man in 2013! Rebate forms will be available on April 15 for download at www.winchesterguns.com (click on the product tab, then promotions & rebates)

Here’s an example: If you spend $1,000 on a new Winchester rifle or shotgun, and you pay an 8% sales tax, you’ll get an $80 reimbursement from Winchester Repeating Arms.

Offer valid only on the consumer retail purchase of a new Winchester firearm purchased between April 15, 2013 and April 30, 2013. To qualify for your sales tax reimbursement (up to a maximum refund of 8% of the purchase price as determined by the sales tax paid at the time your purchase was made as documented on your dated sales receipt) this coupon must be filled out completely and returned to Winchester Repeating Arms with the supporting documents as listed, postmarked no later than midnight May 15, 2013.

Winchester Repeating Arms employees, Winchester Repeating Arms sales representatives, authorized Winchester Repeating Arms dealers and their sales staff, and members of their immediate families are not eligible for this promotion. Limited to one offer per person. Offer valid in the United States only. All purchasers must be citizens or legal residents of the United States.

If you live in a state with no sales tax please submit your coupon (with valid purchase information) for special consideration.

(AmmoLand.com)Purchase a new Browning firearm at retail price from April 15, 2013 thru April 30, 2013 and Browning will reimburse you up to 8% in U.S. funds for the sales tax.  Go see your Browning dealer for more information on how to beat the tax man in 2013. (Offer excludes Buck Mark and 1911-22 pistols. Offer only available in the U.S.)

 For example, if you spend $1,000 and pay 8% sales tax, you can get $80 back from Browning – that’s like getting an 8% discount.

 It’s easy — here’s how it works for you:

It’s that easy!

If you purchase your new Browning in a “no sales tax” state, send in your coupon for special consideration.

Wilson Combat Ted Nugent Signature 10mm CQB Elite Pistol

Wilson Combat

Berryville, AR --(Ammoland.com)- Wilson Combat has donated a Ted Nugent authorized “Signature” 1 of 2 customized 10mm CQB Elite pistol and a matching Ted Nugent Autographed Wilson Tactical Star-Light tactical folding knife for the Knife Rights 2013 Ultimate Steel Knives, Guns & More Spectacular! fundraiser.

“KnifeRights is at the forefront of knife owner advocacy in this country and Wilson Combat is proud to support their outstanding efforts with a donation of this extraordinary Ted Nugent Signature pistol and Star-Light tactical folder for their 2013 Ultimate Steel fundraiser,” said Wilson Combat President, Ryan Wilson.

“We are delighted to work with our good friend Ted, an ardent supporter of Knife Rights, to help further their efforts in fighting the second front in defense of the Second Amendment.”

Ted Nugent said, “I joined Knife Rights to support the great job they are doing; you should too! God Bless Knife Rights!” Nugent added, “I got mine, now you could win the only other one of these pistols ever! Support Knife Rights today!”

“This full custom 1911 pistol exhibits everything Ted wanted in a 10mm defensive and general use handgun and is the only mate in existence to his personal Wilson Combat 10mm,” said Wilson.

Ted Nugent with his own Signature Wilson Combat Pistol, mate to the one offered in Ultimate Steel

Immaculately fitted and optioned, the CQB-Elite model is a flagship Wilson Combat handgun. This 10mm version exhibits numerous options personally selected by Nugent, like Wilson Combat’s new one-piece Bullet Proof Magwell , medium trigger and Black/Gray two-tone Armor-Tuff finish. The slide is custom engraved with Nugent’s signature and Spearchucker logo. Like all Wilson Combat five-inch handguns, the CQB Elite is guaranteed to shoot sub 1-inch groups at 25 yards.

In addition to the handgun, Wilson Combat has also donated a matching Wilson Tactical/Hogue Knives Star-Light 4-inch tanto tactical folder. Nugent will autograph this knife at the NRA Annual Meeting in Houston in May. Designed by Allen Elishewitz, the Star-Light is light enough for daily carry, but among the strongest pocketknives made. Perfect for utility or defensive use, the Star-Light wears the same Armor-Tuff finish and Starburst G-10 handles as Wilson Combat’s handguns.

The retail value of this package is $4,555. Owning the ONLY ONE Besides Ted’s: PRICELESS!

The Ultimate Steel Knives, Guns & More Spectacular! is Knife Rights’ biggest fundraiser ever, with over $100,000 in prizes available to donors. A Winner’s Choice drawing, donors can win the prizes they really want. Donors can also receive Bonus chances and free knives for their donation. Donate prior to May 10, 2013, and donors are entered to win in the Early Bird Bonus Drawing. To make a donation and be entered to win, go to: www.KnifeRights.org/UltimateSteel

ABOUT WILSON COMBAT
Since 1977 Wilson Combat has been the leading innovator in high-performance, custom 1911 handguns, tactical long guns and accessories. A Wilson Combat product’s unmatched level of exceptional reliability and peerless craftsmanship is only equaled by our legendary customer service. Learn more about us at www.wilsoncombat.com

ABOUT KNIFE RIGHTS
Knife Rights is America’s grassroots knife owners organization and supports legislative initiatives to eliminate irrational restrictions on one of man’s oldest and most common tools, decriminalize knife possession and advance the civil rights of America’s knife owners. Knife Rights is dedicated to a Sharper Future for all Americans. Web site: www.KnifeRights.org

Chiappa Five-Inch Rhino Revolver In Tactical Black

MKS Supply

Dayton, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Italian gun maker Chiappa designed the totally revolutionary Rhino Revolver to significantly reduce recoil and muzzle flip.

The Rhino fires from the bottom chamber of the cylinder (6:00 position) and not the conventional top chamber (12:00 position).

The lowering of the barrel aligns it more with the shooter’s arm and greatly reduces flip and shifts recoil back rather than up. Additionally, bullet torque is better controlled. Bullet torque is the result of the bullet screwing itself though the barrel on the shooter’s hand.

If early-era revolver designers had something different from single shot muzzle loading (top shot sight aligned over the barrel) pistol designs they might have considered the superior Rhino design. But back then the recoil of their large and heavy revolvers firing relatively light lead ball (projectiles) the recoil was very low. Additionally, gun makers of that era did not have access to light alloys the Rhino uses to keep the sight rib and overall weight low.

So, traditional revolver appearance was recently shattered by the revolutionary Rhino design. But the thing works! Anyone firing a Chiappa Rhino quickly discovers it turns the hottest .357 Magnum load into the felt recoil and muzzle flip of a .32 or maybe.38. This makes the Rhino seriously fun to fire and incredibly quick for fast and powerful follow up shots. Actually the recoil and flip of the .357 Magnum Rhino is less than a 9mm semi-auto., but the power is much different.

The Rhino is equipped (not 2-inch version) with a Picatinny rail for LASER or white light and features a flat-side cylinder for a lower-conceal carry profile. The unorthodox looking Rhino grips (stocks) makes one wonder how well it can be held, but once you hold a Rhino, you quickly realize they work very well!

The Chiappa Rhino is a highly-effective platform and is currently chambered in .357 Magnum/.38 Special and now the 40 S&W (moon clip). The Rhino comes in blue, polished nickel and 6-inch version in a polished anodized gold finish and in barrel lengths of 2, 4, 5, and 6-inches. The 2-inch Rhino comes with an open top Italian made pancake holster.

Chiappa plans to debut a new light-weight composite-poly frame Rhino in the near future.

The Rhino is a premium level revolver and has an MSRP from $980.00 to $1325.00.

To learn more about the Chiappa line of quality call (877) 425-4867 or visit www.mkschiappa.com

CZ-USA Cz83 Pistol

AmmoLand Gun News

Manasquan, NJ --(Ammoland.com)- The main stream news media, are jumping all over a story about Adam Lanza’s mother planning to purchase her son a “C183″ hand gun.

The problem is there is no such gun as a C183 handgun. As more and more of these genius news reporters keep piling on to this reporting mistake regarding the contents of Adma Lanza’s home, they expertly demonstrate that they know nothing about firearms and don’t even bother to investigate the facts.

“Investigators found more than 1,600 rounds of ammunition in the house, and a holiday card with a check “made out to Adam Lanza for the purchase of a C183 (firearm), authored by Nancy Lanza,” according to a search warrant.”

What is a C183? I have never heard of a firearm by this model. It is a 14 megapixel camera. Did some uninformed journalist see C183 and just assume it was a gun? I have seen multiple cable news reporters repeating this same mistake and I’ve never heard of any gun by this model name

Most likely it is a reference to a CZ-USA Cz83 Pistol.

Product Description
The micro-sized .380s that have arrived on the scene in recent years have reduced dimensions to the point that they are difficult to control even for the most accomplished shooters. The CZ 83′s combination of small size and moderate weight easily handles the new generation of high-performance defensive ammo that has become available for ‘pocket’ pistol calibers from leading ammo manufacturers. The DA/SA trigger mechanism operates in the same manner as the CZ 75. The 83 can be carried ‘cocked and locked’ with the hammer back and the safety on for single action operation, or it may be manually decocked for hammer-down carry. When carried in the decocked position, the safety lever does not need to be de-activated, but instead the first shot is double action and subsequent shots are single action. The CZ 83 features an ambidextrous manual safety and magazine catch.

Hat tip http://www.pagunblog.com

Cleaning And Maintaining Your Concealed Carry Firearm

AmmoLand Gun News

Washington DC - -(Ammoland.com)- With the economy in doubt and a top-down push for gun control under way, now is a time when people are not only trying to find firearms to buy but also doing what they can to make their firearms last.

For those of you who find yourself in the latter category of wanting to make your firearms last as long as possible, here are some options for cleaning and protecting your firearms.

A common means of cleaning and maintaining a firearm is to buy a reliable bore cleaner with which to clean your firearm after shooting it or before storing it for extended periods of time. Hoppe’s 9 Bore Cleaner is extremely popular for this application.

Once the gun has been cleaned with bore cleaner, an extremely thin coat of gun oil is usually applied, and on semi-automatics a small drop of oil is placed on the metal contacts in the frame that holds the slide in place. Because oil attracts lint and dust, some people forgo putting the extremely thin coat of oil on their guns, and opt instead for just putting a small drop on the frame-to-slide contacts.

A common and proven oil for this application is Rem Oil, a gun oil made by Remington.

To be clear, some old schoolers–especially Vietnam Combat vets whom I’ve been fortunate to know–forgo the use of Hoppe’s 9 Bore Cleaner in the above listed process and choose instead to use WD-40. After cleaning the gun with WD-40, they will apply Rem Oil or something comparable.

Another gun-cleaning option for people who want to cut two steps down to one is Corrosion X for guns. It is both a cleaner and a lubricant in one, and was designed by a chemical research firm with an aerospace and military market background.

Corrosion X literally bonds to the metal of your gun when applied, so that it lubricates and protects while it cleans. An ultra-thin layer of Corrosion X sticks to the metal of your gun to prevent rust, “even in the rain.”

My first exposure to Corrosion X came via samples of the product the company sent me to try. Upon using it, I was immediately impressed by the fact that it actually did everything advertisers had claimed it could do.

When I took my Glock 19 9mm and my Smith & Wesson M&P .45 apart to clean them, the Corrosion X literally coated the barrels of both guns with an ultra-thin layer of protection that held to the metal even after I repeatedly wiped it away.

I’ve passed samples of Corrosion X to former FBI agents who’ve seen guns cleaned in a variety of ways, and they’re still using it.

To be sure, there are other options out there for avid shooters with 20 guns or for the person who just bought their first gun and wants to be sure it lasts. But the bottom line is that I’ve used all the products listed above or seen them used by Vietnam Vets (in the case of WD-40), and I don’t think a gun owner can go wrong with any.

My personal choice is Corrosion X because it cuts two steps down to one.

( AmmoLand Editors Note: I recommend you also try Otis Gun Care Products: www.otistec.com )

About:
AWR Hawkins writes for all the BIG sites, for Pajamas Media, for RedCounty.com, for Townhall.com and now AmmoLand Shooting Sports News.

His southern drawl is frequently heard discussing his take on current events on radio shows like America’s Morning News, the G. Gordon Liddy Show, the Ken Pittman Show, and the NRA’s Cam & Company, among others. He was a Visiting Fellow at the Russell Kirk Center for Cultural Renewal (summer 2010), and he holds a PhD in military history from Texas Tech University.

If you have questions or comments, email him at awr@awrhawkins.com. You can find him on facebook at www.facebook.com/awr.hawkins.

Nemo Arms Omen Rifle

Tahoe Films

Kalispell, MT --(Ammoland.com)- I had the opportunity to hang with the guys from Nemo Arms and shoot one of the most exciting new rifles available — the Omen.

All I can say is unbelievable. Watch us shoot out to 1000 yards with this AR rifle built for the 300 win mag cartridge.

I even join the 1000 Yard Club!

OMEN // MATCH Rifle .300 WIN MAG AR

• Billet Upper and Lower Receiver, SF Tiger Stripe Anodize
• NEMO 22” .300 Win Mag Match Grade Barrel
• Geiselle SSA 2-Stage Match Trigger
• Free Float Customizable Handguard With Removable Rail System In Black
• Low Profile Gas Block
• Nickel Boron Bolt Carrier Assembly
• NEMO Side Charging Handle
• NEMO PC Tornado Flash Hider
• Mako Sniper Stock
• Hogue Overmolded Pistol Grip In Black
• KNS Anti-Rotational Trigger Pins
• 2 NEMO 14 Round Mags
• Tru-Spec Drag Bag
• Owners Manual

Options:

• Troy Micro Set Flip Up Sights: add $195
• 26” Heavy Match Grade Barrel: add $425
• Optics

About Tom Opre & Tahoe Films, Ltd.;
Opre is a filmmaker, adventurer and professional hunter. He hosts the outdoor adventure, television series Eye of the Hunter airing at 9PM EST Sundays on NBC Sports. Since 1990, Opre has been producing and directing film and video advertising productions for companies including; Aimpoint, Otis Technology, Mathews Archery, Ski Doo, Sea Doo, Chevrolet, Ford Motorsports, Polaris, Federal, Arctic Cat and Warn. He also produces the Xtremey Award nominated snowmobile and 4×4 ATV film series Extreme Velocity: Sled Heads and Extreme Velocity: Mountains & Mud.

Tom serves as an officer and board member for the Professional Outdoor Media Association (POMA).

Eye of the Hunter is supported by Aimpoint, Otis Technology, Ruger, Brownells and Titan Fuel Tanks.  Visit: www.tahoefilms.com Visit: www.tahoefilms.com

John Wayne’s Single Action Army Revolver from Rio Lobo

NRAblog.com

Fairfax, Virginia --(Ammoland.com)- When an NRANews crew shows up at NRA Headquarters, there’s usually a member of the staff or two who watch the interview being filmed. When they come to film an episode of Curator’s Corner, there’s usually a crowd.

This time was no exception as Senior Curator Philip Schreier brought out a new gun on loan to our Hollywood Gun Collection. Another John Wayne original. This one, a Colt Single Action, found its fame after appearing alongside the Duke in classics like Rio Lobo.

“There’s a gentleman up in New Jersey who is one of the premier John Wayne collectors,” said Schreier at the National Firearms Museum. “He brought us this first generation Single Action Colt the Hollywood Guns display. One of the revolvers John Wayne used for a number of appearances including Rio Lobo.”

Staring as Sheriff Cord McNally (a former Union Colonel), Wayne teams up with former Confederate officers in Rio Lobo to track down a Union traitor. You can learn more about the 1970 film Rio Lobo on IMDB. And for you history buffs out there … you’re correct. The Single Action Army wasn’t yet in production during the movie’s post Civil War timeline.

In addition to Rio Lobo, records from the prop house previously holding the piece indicate that Wayne also used this Colt in True Grit in addition to a number of television Westerns.

The Single Action Army, designed in 1872 by William Mason and Charles Richards, was Colt’s answer to Rollin White’s defection to Smith & Wesson. Also known as the Peacemaker, it has been dubbed by the Blue Book of Gun Values as “the most copied revolver with over fifteen clones currently in production.”

John Wayne’s Single Action Army Revolver from Rio Lobo

If you’d like to catch a close up view of this Single Action Army, tune for the Curator’s Corner segment later this afternoon (around 5:40) to the Sportsman Channel. Or, if you can wait, then check out Curator’s Corner in the Featured Segment section of NRANews.com.

About NRABlog:
NRAblog is your connection to the programs of the NRA. It is a project of the NRA’s Media Relations Division. Visit: www.NRAblog.com

Weatherby 20-Gauge PA Pump Shotgun

Weatherby.com

Paso Robles, CA - -(Ammoland.com)- The versatile PA-08 Synthetic is built to be a reliable, easy-to-use workhorse for various bird hunting applications, from doves to turkeys. TR (Threat Response) shotguns are designed for home and personal defense.

“Our new 20-gauge pumps offer dependable performance with less felt recoil than 12-gauge models,” said company President Ed Weatherby. “They are lightweight and easy to operate—a great shotgun choice for beginners and experienced shooters alike.”

Available with either a 26- or 28-inch barrel, the PA-08 Synthetic features a black lightweight injection-molded stock. All metalwork is matte black to reduce glare. The barrel is chrome lined to withstand years of high-volume shooting, while lengthened forcing cones help reduce felt recoil. A vented top rib dissipates heat and helps facilitate target acquisition, as does the brass bead front sight. Three application-specific choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified and Full) are included with each gun.

The 20-gauge PA-08 Synthetic weighs 6.5-7 pounds depending on barrel length. Magazine capacity is 5+1 (2 ¾-inch shells) or 4+1 (3-inch shells). Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $399.

PA-08 TR features include the easy-to-use pump design and dual action bar system that have proven their dependability with the PA-08 sporting version. This shotgun also has matte black metalwork and a black lightweight injection-molded synthetic stock. The fixed cylinder bore barrel is 18.5 inches long and chrome lined. A bladed white dot front sight is readily visible when aiming, even in low-light conditions.

Weight of the 20-gauge PA-08 TR model is six pounds; overall length measures 39 inches with a 14-inch length of pull. Magazine capacity is 5+1 (2 3/4-inch shells). Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $399.

Key features of the PA-459 TR include a short 13.5-inch length of pull and an ergonomic pistol grip-style buttstock with rubber-textured grip areas for snag-free shouldering. All metalwork has a matte black finish; the 18.5-inch chrome-lined barrel is fitted with an extended removable ported cylinder choke tube for application-specific patterning. The LPA-style ghost ring rear sight is adjustable for windage and elevation.

The 20-gauge PA-459 TR weighs 5.75 pounds and measures 39 inches in overall length. Magazine capacity is 5+1 (2 ¾-inch shells) or 4+1 (3-inch shells). Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $499.

For more information, contact a local Weatherby dealer, call the company at (805) 227-2600 or visit www.weatherby.com.

Founded in 1945, Weatherby, Inc.’s line features the popular Vanguard® and legendary Mark V® rifles (production and custom), Threat Response shotguns and rifles, semi-auto and pump shotguns, premium ammunition and security/shooting accessories. The company is based in Paso Robles, Calif., and invites all hunters and shooters to visit and join its free online community at www.weatherbynation.com.