Regent R200S 45 Handgun

Umarex USA

FORT SMITH, Arkansas --(Ammoland.com)-  Umarex USA is expanding its line of .45 ACP handguns. Adam Blalock, President and CEO of Umarex USA said,

“The strong success of the Regent R100 illustrates that the consumer is looking for a high-quality, value driven 1911.

The quality of the Regent is unparalleled in the market for its retail price point, and in 2012, we are adding two additional Regent handguns that offer outstanding features normally found in much higher priced models. Combining quality with affordable retail prices, consumers will clearly recognize the value of both the Regent R200S and R350CR.”

The new R200S is a stainless version of Umarex USA’s Regent R100S 1911 A1 style handgun. The R200S is already shipping with Hogue grips installed and factory standard customized features such as a beavertail grip safety, ambidextrous thumb safety, commander-style hammer, and skeleton trigger. This Regent stainless retails for under $600.

The R350CR is expected to ship this spring. This compact variant of the 1911 has a four-inch barrel and is equipped with a rail, beavertail grip safety, ambidextrous thumb safety, commander-style hammer, skeleton trigger, and a checkered front strap. Also shipped with Hogue® grips, the Regent R350CR is expected to retail for under $550.

Regent R350CR 45 Handgun

For additional information about Regent handguns, visit RegentARMS.com.

Umarex USA is one of North America’s fastest growing sport and recreation gun companies. Umarex USA markets firearms and non-powder guns under licensed brands such as Walther, RWS, Smith & Wesson, Browning, Heckler & Koch, Ruger, Beretta, Colt, Elite Force, Magnum Research, Regent, UZI, and others. For additional information regarding Umarex USA visit UmarexARMS.com and UmarexUSA.com.

Springfield Armory XD(M) 3.8 Compact 45ACP Pistol

Springfield Armory

GENESEO, IL --(Ammoland.com)- You’ve been waiting for it, and now it’s available. The XD(M) 3.8 Compact .45ACP Pistol.

Since we introduced the XD(M) Compact in 9mm and .40, our Customer Service department has been swamped with requests for a .45 version.

So, we’ve been frantically developing an amazing product that combines concealability, high capacity, with a big bullet, that, like all XD and XD(M) models focuses on ergonomics, and comfort.

Don’t forget, the Compact models double as full-size frame models with the use of the XD(M) Gear Mag X-Tension (US Pat. 7191556) that offers a full-capacity back-up mag, or convenient range option.

We think you’re going to be very happy with what we’ve come up with.

Call your local retailer today, and ask if they have one you can wrap your hand around.

For more information, visit

www.The-M-Factor.com

PS: Until November 30th when you purchase any XD or XD(M) pistol, you can receive 3 additional magazines FREE!
To learn how, click here

About Springfield Armory:
George Washington ordered the creation of Springfield Armory® in 1777 to store revolutionary ammunition and gun carriages. The current Springfield Armory® functioned as a supplier for every major American conflict as well as a “think tank” for new firearm concepts.With reverence for the legacy of the Armory, the Reese family resurrected the most historically significant designs produced by The Armory- M1 Garand, 1911-A1, M14 –and fueled by the same obsession for improved manufacturing techniques and cutting edge design that inspired the likes of John C. Garand, and John Browning, they’ve continued to develop products that are loyal to Springfield Armory’s heritage, Visit www.springfield-armory.com

Heizer Defense Doubletap .45 ACP Conceal Carry Pistol

Heizer Defense

ST LOUIS, MO --(Ammoland.com)-  Heizer Defense LLC, a firearms company producing a new paradigm of pistols for the responsible-citizen and law enforcement markets is proud to introduce their first model for the concealed carry market; the DoubleTap.Heizer DoubleTap

The DoubleTap is a tactical pocket pistol, loaded with 5 patents pending, built on a titanium or aluminum frame; the slimmest and lightest on the market today at only .665 inches wide and 14 ounces.

Available in a show-stopping .45 ACP or the more popular 9MM, this no-snag, hammerless designed pistol is completely designed, engineered and manufactured to the highest degree of precision and tolerances in an aerospace facility using aerospace technology and equipment.

The DoubleTap carries two rounds in the chamber and the integral grips house two additional spare rounds. The break-action features a patent-pending progressive barrel porting option that cuts muzzle rise and recoil. The ambidextrous thumb latch releases the action and automatically ejects the spent rounds.

Unlike any firearm, the DoubleTap features a truly revolutionary double-action trigger system that utilizes ball bearings for a smooth action and crisp trigger pull. The DoubleTap is available in a titanium or aluminum frame and is finished with a MIL-STD finish, the same used on military aircraft, for corrosion and wear resistant finish. Production guns will be available in the first quarter of 2012.

For more information visit www.heizerdefense.com and visit Heizer on Facebook.

About Heizer Defense:
Heizer Defense LLC is a firearms design, engineering and manufacturing company headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri. The facility’s commitment to quality is exemplified in the multiple certifications including ISO 9001:2008 and AS9100 2004 Rev B. Certified. www.heizerdefense.com

Ruger Blackhawk Flattop 45 Colt or 45 ACP Convertible Revolver Exclusively at Lipsey's

Lipsey’s Firearms

Baton Rouge, Louisiana --(Ammoland.com)- Lipsey’s LLC, a leading nation-wide firearms distributor, is pleased to announce an exclusive run of Ruger Flattop revolvers chambered in the classic 45 Colt cartridge.

As a bonus, they will include an additional 45 ACP cylinder. These highly anticipated revolvers will feature a blue finish, simulated ivory “gunfighter” style grips and adjustable sights.

They will be built on the mid-size 357 Magnum frame and offered with a 5-1/2” barrel. A stainless steel version of the same revolver will follow shortly.

For detailed information on this model vist: http://tiny.cc/vq0lw

Lipsey’s has been a firearms distributor since 1953 and currently services FFL licensed firearms retailers in all 50 states.

This exciting new exclusive 45 Colt / 45 ACP Flattop convertible will complement Lipsey’s extensive line of special make-up and limited edition firearms. To find out more about these and other Lipsey’s offerings, please visit www.lipseys.com

SIG SAUER 1911-22 rimfire pistol Flat Dark Earth

SIG SAUER

EXETER, NH --(Ammoland.com)- SIG SAUER, Inc., the leading manufacturer of commercial, law enforcement and military firearms, introduces the 1911 TACPAC and two new options on the 1911-22.

These pistols combine the American ingenuity of the venerable 1911 platform with SIG SAUER refinements that enhance the pistol’s accuracy while still maintaining superior reliability.

The 100th anniversary of the 1911 has increased interest in the platform and driven more shooters to purchase their first 1911s. To accommodate these new 1911 fans, SIG SAUER has created the 1911 TACPAC.

Sig Sauer 1911 TACPAC Kit

This kit provides everything a shooter needs to enjoy a day at the range. Included is a full-size SIG SAUER 1911 pistol with or without the option of an accessory rail. The .45ACP pistols feature a stainless slide, durable Nitron finish, low-profile sights and Ergo XT polymer grips.

The railed version of the TACPAC allows shooters to quickly mount lights or the included CPL-1 compact laser. Two magazines are standard in this kit. The non-railed TACPAC features the more traditional look of a 1911 and comes with three magazines.

A match-grade barrel, hammer and sear set are mated to a lightweight, solid aluminum trigger. A SIG SAUER roto-paddle holster with integrated magazine pouch, Allen wrench, speed loader, and hard carry case round out the package. The TACPAC is the perfect all-in-one kit to equip those who may be purchasing their first 1911.

For shooters seeking a more economically friendly way to commemorate the 1911, SIG SAUER introduces two new versions of the popular 1911-22 rimfire pistol. Chambered in the economical 22LR, the 1911-22 now features a more traditional, military-style finish.

Flat Dark Earth and Olive Drab models join the standard 1911-22, giving users an opportunity to own the classic 1911 platform chambered for .22LR. The 1911-22 includes “U.S.” engraved walnut grips to further enhance the historical military appearance.

Built to the same dimensions as the full-size 1911, the 1911-22 features a lightweight metal frame and slide, low-profile three-dot sights, working grip safety and ambidextrous thumb safety, making the 1911-22 a perfect training tool for 1911 fans as well as a fun plinking pistol for all ages.

SIG SAUER 1911-22 rimfire pistol Olive Drab

Become a fan of SIG SAUER on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SigSauerInc.

About SIG SAUER, Inc.
SIG SAUER, Inc. is the largest member of a worldwide business group of firearms manufacturers that includes J.P. Sauer & Sohn and Blaser GmbH in Germany and Swiss Arms AG in Switzerland. This global network of companies gives SIG SAUER a world-class firearms knowledge base, unparalleled design expertise, and extensive manufacturing capacity, enabling the company to respond quickly and effectively to changing market conditions and the needs of its military, law enforcement, and commercial markets worldwide. SIG SAUER is an ISO 9001: 2008 certified company with over 400 employees. For more information on SIG SAUER, any of its products, or the SIG SAUER Academy, log on to www.sigsauer.com.

Kahr Arms Crimson Trace Laserguard Equipped P380 Pistols

Kahr Arms

Worcester, Mass --(Ammoland.com)- Kahr Arms, the award-winning manufacturer of compact pistols based in Worcester, Mass, is currently engaged in a patent infringement lawsuit against Diamondback Firearms, LLC, the maker of compact .380 ACP and 9mm pistols based in Cocoa, Florida.

Seven U.S. patents cover Kahr’s unique locking, firing and extraction systems. The incomparable cocking cam trigger system employs a patented cam to both unlock the passive safety and complete cocking and releasing of the firing pin. The system provides a “safe cam action” and unbelievably smooth double action only trigger stroke, fast to fire in critical defensive situations.

These innovations found only in the Kahr pistol give the Kahr shooter an advantage in self-defense, home protection and duty or off duty use. The Kahr design is original, creating the smallest package possible in four defensive calibers – 9mm, .40S&W, .45 ACP and the .380 ACP.

Kahr has been producing compact pistols in Worcester since the early 1990s, and in the process has carved out a market segment for concealed pistol carry by properly licensed civilians and law enforcement personnel. In recent years, this market segment has attracted the attention of a number of large and small companies vying to gain market share as the larger pistol market has slowed down.

Kahr has been a leader and innovator in this market segment with over 40 different pistol configurations consisting of steel and polymer frames, four calibers and five barrel lengths. Kahr will continue to take necessary steps to protect their patented innovations.

Visit www.kahr.com to learn more about Kahr Arms, or contact Monica Arnold -Blue August at monica@bluaugust.com.

Umarex REGENT .45 ACP 1911 A1

Umarex USA

FORT SMITH, ARKANSAS --(Ammoland.com)- Umarex USA, one of the fastest growing sporting gun companies in the United States, introduced at SHOT Show, the Regent R100 pistol, a 1911 A1 style pistol chambered in .45 ACP.

The pistol, introduced on the 100-­-year anniversary of the original M1911 pistol, has been specifically engineered for precision, durability, and accuracy.

The steel investment cast frame gives the Regent the weight of the original M1911, while the 7-­-round steel detachable magazine allows for quick reloading. The wide spur hammer, arched mainspring housing, and low cut ejection port are all designed to give maximum performance and accuracy. From the standard feature Hogue® grips to the stainless steel hammer forged barrel, the Regent is truly an outstanding value for the quality.

This Regent variant of the historic 1911 brings a very high quality version downward in price. The craftsmanship and excellent value that Umarex USA is known for in the replica gun market carries through undeniably in this pistol.

Adam Blalock, Umarex USA’s CEO, praised the new introduction, saying “This 1911 introduction is exciting for us. This gun has an unmatched level of quality and workmanship for the price and this combination makes the Regent standout among the large field of 1911 45s.”

The Regent .45 ACP 1911-­-style pistol is available through select distributors, local firearm dealers and some national retailers. The retail price of the pistol is competitively priced at a suggested retail of $499, which is far below similar quality M1911 variants on the market. A stainless steel version, coming later this year with a handful of different features, will have a suggested retail of $599.

Umarex was established in 1972 as “Uma Mayer Ussfeller GmbH” and served the market for tear gas and signal pistols followed by air rifles. After acquiring Reck Sportwaffen Fabrick Karl Arndt, they reorganized ultimately under Umarex. The company’s Reck PK 800 enjoys worldwide acclaim and appears on the market as the perfect replica of the Walther PPK. Umarex has now become the largest maker of replicas by offering numerous German-­-made air guns, tear gas, signal pistols and most recently replica firearms. Umarex USA is North America’s fastest growing airgun and replica tactical rimfire gun company. Umarex USA markets their airguns, airsoft, paintball and tactical rimfire products under famous brands such as Walther, RWS, Smith & Wesson, Browning, Heckler & Koch, Ruger®, Beretta, Colt, Magnum Research, and others. For additional information regarding Umarex USA visit UmarexUSA.com.

Federal & American Eagle 45 Auto Ammunition Product Safety Warning

FederalPremium.com

ANOKA, Minn. --(Ammoland.com)- Certain lots of recently manufactured 45 Auto ammunition may contain an incorrect propellant charge.

Use of product from these lots may result in firearm damage and possible serious injury.

DO NOT USE PRODUCT FROM THE FOLLOWING LOTS:

• 38X628 through 38X765
• 38T401 through 38T414

If you have in your possession any 45 Auto with the following brand names and part numbers, check to see if your ammunition package contains the above lots: American Eagle (AE45A, AE45N1, or AE45A250), Champion (WM5233), GoldMedal (GM45B), Hi-Shok (45C, 45D) and Federal Personal Defense (C45C, C45D).

See Example above:

THIS WARNING APPLIES ONLY TO THE LOTS LISTED ABOVE.
If you possess ammunition from any of these lots, or have questions concerning this warning, please contact us at 1-800-831-0850 or 1-800-322-2342 and ask for Product Service. Federal will provide replacement product and will cover the cost of returning the affected product.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Matt Burketts Predator Tactical Custom 1911 Shrike

Predator Tactical

Tempe, Arizona. --(Ammoland.com)- Help those who have given so much to our country and win training and custom 1911 Shrike from Predator Tactical!

In support of the “Lone Survivor Foundation” Matt Burkett’s Predator Tactical will be raffling off a custom 1911 Shrike, training with Matt himself and more.

Please go to www.predatortactical.com/Raffle-Tickets-c35/ to purchase tickets. Tickets will also be available at the Shot Show. Drawing will be held on Warrior Appreciation Night, January 20th, 2011. You need not be present to win.

The proceeds from the raffle will go to the “Lone Survivor Foundation” in honor of MSG Jared Van Aalst. (www.lonesurvivorfoundation.org/)

The prizes:

• One of a kind Two Toned Stainless Shrike in .45 acp with the Lone Survivor Logo
• One day of private training with Matt Burkett in Arizona
• Complete set of training DVDs from Matt Burkett
• Range Bag
• Holster
• Magazine Pouches

Please note: All State, Federal and Local Laws apply. Firearms may only be shipped to a licensed dealer (FFL Holder). Some listed items may not be legal in every state.

Predator Tactical LLC provides innovative firearms, accessories, instructional videos, and professional firearms training throughout the world. Visit: www.predatortactical.com

ASYM's National Match 45 ACP Target Ammunition

ASYM Precision Ammunition

DURANGO, Colo. --(Ammoland.com)- ASYM PRECISION National Match Target ammunition is a match winning, extremely accurate load that tells the shooter just how well their tuned 45 can perform.

Featuring the Nosler 185 grain JHP – a bullet prized among serious bullseye shooters for its gilt-edged accuracy – the National Match Target is a mild shooting target round. Utilizing ASYM match brass, which is custom drawn brass made to ASYM’s specifications, and propelled by premium VihtaVouri powder, the round is loaded to 775 fps, a velocity proven to be a sweet spot in accuracy and function.

“As a custom 1911 maker whose customers expect uncommon accuracy, I looked to the Camp Perry National Matches for the inspiration behind our National Match Target ammunition. We built this round from the ground up using only premium components, assembled on state-of-the-art equipment customized to my own standards and hand-inspected and individually chamber checked as part of a quality control process that insures outstanding performance,” explained Stan Chen, president of Stan Chen Customs and ASYM Ammunition.

The National Match Target is available in a box of 50 or a case of 500 and will run in most 1911s using a stock 16 lbs. spring. For more brisk ejection, springs from 10 to 14 lbs. can be used.

The load is a premium target load and although it uses a JHP projectile, the bullet is not designed to expand at the given velocity. Those looking for a premium defensive load should consider the ASYM SOLID DEFENSE XTM (SDX) load featuring the Barnes solid copper TAC-XP bullet.

“Besides being the definitive accuracy load for competition, the National Match Target is an extremely pleasant load to shoot, especially in extended training sessions,” observed Chen. “So much so that we warn our customers to beware, because this round will make them fall in love with their 45 all over again.”

For more information on the National Match Target 45 ACP ammunition, the full line of ASYM PRECISION ammunition or to place an order, visit www.ASYM-Ammo.com.

Dan Wesson Guardian Pistol Now Available in .45ACP & 9mm

CZ USA Firearms

Kansas City, KS --(Ammoland.com)- We are bringing back the Dan Wesson Guardian with a twist. It has long been requested that we make a commander size 9mm.

Here is the twist: We have combined the best features from two of our most popular models, the Bobtail Commander and the CCO.

The new Guardian has the bobtail frame to help reduce printing when carrying concealed, and the alloy frame, makes it light enough for comfortable full time carry.

The commander length slide and alloy frame give it just the right feel and balance. The Guardian wears the handsome and durable black “Duty” finish from Dan Wesson.

Item # and Suggested Retail Price:

• 01985 DAN WESSON Guardian 9mm Luger $1530
• 01987 DAN WESSON Guardian .45 ACP $1590

About:
CZ products are imported exclusively by CZ-USA, a wholly owned subsidiary of the parent company, Ceska Zbrojovka a.s. Uhersky Brod, (CZUB) of the Czech Republic. All distribution, warranty work and repair work is located in the Kansas City KS. Location, along with a well stocked parts department. Factory trained Sales staff and warranty repair personnel are available to assist you. We look forward to providing you with the quality, value and service you deserve. Visit: www.cz-usa.com

.303 British 174gr. FMJ Surplus Ammo

AmmoLand Gun News

Manasquan, NJ --(Ammoland.com)- The term “surplus” simply means an over supply; yet when used in conjunction with militaria or pretty much anything to do with the military, it often evokes used equipment or to some a substandard product.

This most certainly isn’t the norm when discussing surplus ammunition, and in fact, a lot of military ammo could be considered far superior to the commercial grade ammo in the same calibers.

Bannermans Surplus Arms Catalog

To understand surplus ammunition, at least from an American perspective, requires a basic understanding of the nature of surplus equipment. Following the American Civil War there was simply more equipment than the vastly reduced U.S. military forces could ever use. This in turn led to the original surplus market, which spawned mail order catalogs such as the famous Bannerman’s catalog, where all sorts of used as well as un-issued equipment could be purchased. And while those prices may look like bargains by today’s standards, these were hardly bargain basement prices.

“Surplus ammo surely came early, as modern cartridge firearms evolved very rapidly in the late 1800s,” says Chris Clinton, who previously ran the old surplus ammo business Cannon and Cartridge. “Each time a rifle or round became the new performance ‘champ,” many issue weapons and their cartridges were sold off as obsolete. Sometimes a round (as well as rifle) would pass down to second line troops before it entered the civilian market.”

One early example of this says Clinton was the 45-70 government, which was adopted by the U.S. in the early 1870s, and used until the 1890s. This was likely the first cartridge surplus “milsurp” on the U.S. market. As the U.S. Army and other military forces adopted new rifles and small arms, the old equipment was sold off, and with the adoption of the traditional bullet that we know today, the same thing happened with ammunition.

“Ammo was dumped as it was deemed obsolete,” says advanced gun collector Rob Summerhill of the SurplusRifle.com forum. “Old ammo was just no longer of use, and it was sold off.”

This process has been repeated with military rifles numerous times. The military would gear up for a conflict, fight the war, come home and sell of the surplus ordinance. But after World War II an interesting thing happened, captured German small arms were sold to the active shooters - and later collectors - market, along with the ammo.

“German ammo in the 1950s and the 1960s was extremely common,” says Summerhill, noting that oddly Japanese ammo was not. “The Japanese surplus ammo was dumped in the Pacific at the end of the war, and even today much of the Japanese ammo you’ll find isn’t original from the war.”

Surplus Polish 7.62x54R Ammunition Pic: AimSurplus.com

With the end of the Cold War in 1990, the surplus ammo market was flooded with previously difficult to find Soviet calibers, notably 7.62x54r and 7.62x39r.

While this ammo is still available the amounts are drying up says Summerhill.

“You aren’t seeing the massive import of ammo like we saw from a few years ago. You could buy a wooden crate with two sealed metal cases filled with the 7.62 ammo for $40 or $50.”

This price is why shooters and collectors such as Doug Wozny love the surplus ammo.

“For me the biggest benefit to surplus ammunition was the ability to buy it in bulk. Rarely do you find case lots of commercial ammunition offered.” The other benefit says Wozny is that the ammo often fits like a glove with the firearms it was built for. “I like to see how the weapon-ammunition combination performs using the ammunition intended for the weapon.”

Surplus Ammo by Definition
Today surplus ammo comes in many shapes, sizes and calibers, but yet there remains a disagreement among shooters as to what is rightfully classified as “surplus.” Even those in the business have very distinct opinions – and some of it differs from the aforementioned American surplus.

International surplus ammo, say some experts can be identified from a number of key distinctive aspects.

“Generally it has these characteristics: it is foreign, it is military de-commissioned, it was produced many years ago - at least 10-25, sometimes much older - and it should come in air and water tight packaging, its markings are typically in a foreign language - unless British of course - and the markings should be in metric units. Finally its generally cheaper than new production ammo,” says Dustin of LuckyGunner.com. Despite the moniker of “surplus,” it isn’t always readily available.

While the very nature of surplus was ammo that was simply dumped on the market, as collectors bought it up, shot it off and wanted more, surplus ammo has become less common.

“There are always two sides to every coin. In this case, supply and demand is what controls how easy it is to obtain.”

Dustin says that on the supply side surplus ammo is generally slow and stable over the long-term, but very sporadic in the short-term.

“Unlike new production ammo that rolls off the assembly line in a steady stream to the market, foreign surplus ammunition generally becomes available in large chunks and is imported into the United States by the container load. If you aggregate this across the entire United States it results in a relatively steady flow of product, but it can certainly result in some wild swings in availability on a per caliber basis. Feast or famine, as they say.”

On the demand side of the coin, says Dustin, the picture more resembles the broader ammo marketplace.

“Shooter’s propensity to pull the trigger and the resulting need to re-supply, when aggregated across the entire United States is also pretty constant. The obvious exception to this has been the recent ammunition shortage. While the market has largely normalized by now, there were certainly periods in the last 24 months when surplus ammunition, like all ammunition, was very hard to come by.”

Taiwan 30-06 FMJ Corrosive Ammunition

Surplus Ammo Safe to Shoot?
The other notable concern about surplus ammo isn’t just whether the supply will dry up, but rather whether the ammo is generally safe to shoot. Most shooters and collectors say the bigger danger is the potential damage it can do to a rare firearm.

Carcano Surplus Ammunition

“There is no surplus ammunition that I would consider dangerous today,” says Summerhill. He does note that old Carcano ammo from World War II was considered dangerous, but the problem wasn’t the rifle, but rather the conditions used to make the rounds. “That ammo was made under slave labor in North Africa, and it was forced labor. So there was sabotage going on, and as a result shooters after the war experienced bad ammo. “

The results could include gases that could come back into the shooters face. He notes there has been some issues with 303 British coming out of Afghanistan that includes worrisome problems such as “hang fire.” A similar problem has been encountered with some Yugoslavian ammo, including hang fire and failure to fire, but he says that keeping the ammo in a warm space “seems to bring the ginger back to the primer.”

However, Summerhills says that much of the Cold War ammo is very good, notably the supplies coming from Romania. If anything, he adds the problem isn’t the reliability or the safety but the contents of the bullets.

“My main concern besides safety is the corrosive primers,” says Wozny. “I know that the ‘older,’ as in 1940s, 1950s and 1960s stuff is most likely corrosive but some surplus ammunition even made in the 1980s and 1990s - such as the French made - are corrosive. You can’t always trust the distributor to know, so you need to do some research.”

This is a real concern, as a lot of the surplus ammo hitting the market these days includes salt-based primers or those with corrosive chemicals high in mercury.(IE: Berdan Mercury Primers) For those in a dry climate, as well as those who clean the bore with ammonia based Windex right after use and normal gun car within 24 to 48 hours this shouldn’t be much of a problem however.

As such the worry isn’t really justified.

“There is a lot of misinformation out there,” says Summerhill. “If you keep the gun clean the ammo isn’t a problem. But issues like this can result in a bias against surplus ammo that just isn’t warranted.”

Surplus Ammunition Calibers

Common Surplus Calibers
While the aforementioned German ammo from World War II was common following the war, the “vintage” stuff has really started to dry up. Other World War II ammo was also far from rare in the “good old days,” says Wozny.

“In the 1960s and 1970s it was .45ACP and .30-06. I can tell you what ammunition wasn’t heavily surplussed, it was the 8mm variety.”

How the times have changed. Today the most commonly encountered calibers say the experts are those Soviet 7.62×54 and 7.62×39. That ammo, while a bit more expensive today than say a decade ago, is far from uncommon. Even when the price of ammo skyrocketed in late 2008 and 2009, the Communist Bloc ammo remained easy enough to obtain – albeit at inflated prices that the market could bear.

Some ammo that has all but vanished from the surplus market includes the British .303, and today shooters of the Enfield style rifles can expect to pay $1 or more a round – not exactly what you’d think would be the price for surplus ammo. As expected this has driven the price of the most common Lee Enfield rifles down, although the serious collector examples still fetch a high price. Other ammo that could rightfully be deemed “uncommon” or even “rare,” and is thus hard to find are the Italian 6.5 Carcano and the 7.35 Carcano. Likewise, Argentine ammo has also dried up, with reloads being the future for shooters of those vintage firearms.

Interestingly, in addition to the more common Communist ammo, surplus rounds are coming from countries that were essentially neutral in the World Wars as well as throughout the Cold War.

“The Swiss stuff is really flooding the market,” says Summerhill. “The Swiss have changed their small arms, and with it have flooded the market with ammo. The same thing is happening with the Swedes and we’re seeing a lot of the surplus ammo coming in from up there.”

United Nations Monument to Gun Control

IANSA & UN Would Ban Surplus Ammunition Sales
The other equation with surplus ammo is that it has red tape that can “gum up the works” because this involves international and global markets. Thus the normal “supply and demand” equation is still true, but government regulations can actually create a problem with supply, which only further increases the demand. The Soviet era ammo that was once impossible to find, and then became plentiful could again dry up as some anti-gun / anti-freedom groups look to block its entry into the United States.

“Ironically, the BATF along with the Hillary Clinton State Department, is trying to end the importation of ammuntion and arms,” says Summerhill, noting that while the government can claim to have made no attempts to regulate firearms, a backdoor gun ban is possible if the government tightens control on surplus ammo. “They’re trying to block the importation of ammo. There are no laws to stop the importation, but they’re trying to increase regulation, which would still block the ammo from coming in. That’s what we’re seeing now. It is going to be interesting to see what surplus ammo is allowed in the country.”

Likewise says Summerhill, “the countries that have the ammo might not want to deal with the hassles of bringing it in here, even if the market conditions suggest it is favorable for them to do so. But others don’t see this as the end, or even the beginning of the end”

Clinton says there will never be an “end” of surplus ammo. “Maybe not but will there be an end to the SALE of surplus ammo? Could be, as the UN and others press nations to keep the surplus ammunition off the world market.”

The issue here is whether a treaty could ever be finalized and whether all the nations would even comply with such a restrictive treaty. For one thing ammunition is still big business for many nations, and if there are large stockpiles it still makes sense to sell the ammo rather than let it continue to age and go bad. There are even suggestions that the treaty would only obstruct ammunition that is generally not suitable to sporting use, and most surplus ammo still is useful for sport shooting.

“I don’t fear the UN treaty as much as some in the hobby,” says Clinton. “I see such a deal so complicated as to be just not workable worldwide.”

Surplus Ammo’s Future Outlook
The final truth is that there remains a lot of surplus ammo in the United States already. Prices will go up and down with the supply. But as we’ve seen, numerous conditions, including fear of bans will no doubt influence and affect the price of ammo in both the short term and the long term.

This happened last year, but as with other inflated prices - notably the cost of gasoline - the “stabilized” price that is the new “normal” is still higher than the pre-inflated prices. Likewise, with a return to “normal” prices, the supply has seemingly increased – an irony in supply and demand economics. The fact is that as the supply increases, the prices do fall.

“Lately, most surplus military ammo has been relatively easy to find since the ‘Obama panic’ buying has ceased,” says Gunboard.com member Jeremy. “The prices have dropped slightly too. I don’t expect the market to ever return to the days when surplus ammo was cheap however.”

Resources:

• www.LuckyGunner.com
• www.AimSurplus.com
• www.WrigleyAmmo.com

Read Related:

• UN & IANSA Plotting to Tear Down the 2nd Amendment
• EPA Considering Ban on Traditional Ammunition
• Pressure the State Department To Allow Garand & Carbine Imports
• Military Cartridge Brass Destruction 2010
  

Para's P14•45 1911 This is the pistol that set the standard for big bore high capacity firepower. The P14•45 gives you three-dot fixed sights for easy targeting, match-grade components and a durable non-reflective finish, at a price that can't be beat.

AmmoLand Gun News

Florence, Alabama - -(Ammoland.com)- After 99 years of service in the world’s darkest places, it is hard to believe that the venerable M1911 pistol has been with us for nearly a century and still remains one of the hottest firearms available.

No other firearm in history has been on the front lines of military and law enforcement for so long. Even more remarkable is the fact that the pistol’s design was finalized in 1910! It took the Army nearly a year to get it through the test process and adopted as the M1911.

The 1911 or its slightly modified version, the M1911A1 have been with us and have served in every military operation since its introduction. Beginning with General “Black Jack” Pershing’s expedition into Mexico in 1916, through World Wars I and II, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm and now the War on Terror, the 1911 continues to be the handgun of choice by law enforcement and military professionals when they have the option. Despite having been “officially” replaced by the 9mm M9 over 20 years ago, the 1911 soldiers on in our nation’s military, primarily in special operations units whose members appreciate the 1911’s legendary reliability and “stopping power” of the .45 ACP cartridge.

In law enforcement the 1911 is a “growth industry.” A 1911 type pistol is also the choice of many law enforcement agencies nationwide. The FBI Hostage Rescue Team and regional SWAT Teams all employ 1911s. Local agencies have also made 1911 pistols their choice. Special teams like LAPD SWAT and Special Investigations use 1911s – in this instance, Kimbers. The Tacoma, Washington Police Department and others have authorized 1911 pistols for patrol carry and the list is growing. Many individual officers of my acquaintance carry 1911-type pistols on duty and yes – my duty pistol is a 1911 type with standard five inch barrel, while my off-duty pistol is also a 1911 type, albeit with a four inch barrel. In fact, there are more manufacturers of 1911 type pistols now than ever before and most have trouble keeping up with demand.

Proven Design
Despite its age, the 1911 has many things going for that make many armed professionals prefer it to more recent designs. I have already alluded to the 1911’s well-earned reputation for reliability and lethality. But there are other factors as well. One is the natural pointing ability of the 1911 due to its grip angle that makes the pistol point like an extension of one’s hand – it is almost like pointing with the index finger. Carried as John Browning intended, i.e. Condition One (Cocked and locked), the 1911 is faster into action than any other pistol, especially DA/SA and DAO handguns and as safe as any, so long as one takes the time to learn how to properly use it.

For example, our local police department authorizes individual officer carry of 1911-type pistols on patrol, but only after a familiarization course, because the 1911 manual of arms should be learned prior to its use.

To take advantage of the 1911′s speed into action, simple but discrete actions must be learned. As the pistol is drawn and brought up into firing position, the safety is swept off and the finger placed alongside the trigger guard unless it is necessary to open fire immediately. If the need is to immediately begin shooting, the trigger can be pressed as soon as the pistol comes on target and the trigger’s “feel” is the same every time it is pulled, unlike DA/SA pistols that have a long heavy pull for the first shot and a short pull for the second, requiring a slight change in grip which in a gunfight could be hazardous to one’s health and continued well-being. The 1911’s trigger also enhances accuracy, which lessens the chance of missing or possibly hitting an innocent bystander while increasing the probability of ending the threat. Then for cops, there is the issue of officer safety. There are documented instances of bad guys getting an officer’s 1911 and not being able to figure out how to switch off the safety, giving the officer time to go for his BUG. (Backup Gun.) Nobody ever accused these morons of having an IQ above room temperature! Finally, there is lethality.

Winchester Ranger SXT Ammunition

As my friend and colleague Colonel (Ret) Marty Fackler, MD once told me, “You need to make lots of big holes so lots of air gets in and lots of blood gets out.” No military or law enforcement cartridge has terminal ballistics to equal those of the .45 ACP, especially when the rounds are loaded with modern jacketed hollow point (JHP) bullets like 230 grain Winchester Ranger SXT, Black Hills Gold Dot, Hornady TAP or Remington Golden Saber.

The 1911 isn’t for everyone because it requires training to safely use it and a simple manual of arms that must be learned and “hard wired” into one’s brain and muscle memory as opposed to revolvers and pistols like Glock or Springfield XDs that require only that the trigger be pulled for them to fire. In order to safely use the 1911, it must first be understood. For example, a few years ago one of the other officers at the police department where I serve as a reserve officer mentioned to me one day that my cocked and locked (Condition 1) 1911 type pistol made him nervous. I told him that while it may look more apt to accidentally fire, in truth his Glock had fewer safeties than my 1911 type. He was initially incredulous, but I proceeded to point out that first, my pistol’s hammer was physically blocked by the holster’s thumb break retaining strap that must be unsnapped to draw the pistol. Once the thumb break is opened and the pistol drawn, the manual safety must also be switched off, but that’s not all. The grip safety must be properly depressed so the trigger can release the hammer and in many modern 1911s like mine, there is a firing pin safety that physically blocks the firing pin and is deactivated only when the grip safety is properly depressed. Thus, I explained, my 1911 had no less than three inherent safeties, not counting the thumb break, while his Glock had only the trigger safety with the striker always cocked, essentially in Condition Zero.

Although he understood that my 1911 had more built in safeties, he still had some misgivings regarding the visible hammer even though he understood that his Glock was also “cocked.”

Magazine Capacity
Another issue that is sometimes raised is magazine capacity. One can make the argument for pistols with larger magazine capacity, but my response is that I now carry four Cobra Mags of eight rounds capacity each on my duty belt, giving me four rounds more than the three 12 round magazines I carried with my higher capacity pistol with virtually no increase in weight. The mags weigh next to nothing – it is the ammo load that matters. Of course, I have to change magazines more frequently during qualifications, but that is no big deal. I usually do a tactical reload between stages anyhow. For off duty or civilian concealed carry, it’s wise to keep a spare magazine handy. My belt slide holster that I use off-duty accommodates a spare magazine and the chances of my getting in a gunfight so intense that I need more than 16 rounds is slim to none. So magazine capacity really isn’t an issue for me, although for those who desire it, high capacity 1911s like Para Ord’s P14 up the ammo capacity considerably — from eight to 14 rounds of .45 ACP!

Reliability
But there are other reasons for the 1911’s’ unprecedented longevity. One reason is reliability. Given that it has been properly maintained, any well-made 1911 type pistol can be counted upon to go “bang” when the trigger is pulled. The operative word here is “maintained.” No handgun can be expected to function if it isn’t cared for, but the 1911 is more forgiving in this respect than most. In terms of longevity, some manufacturers crow about their pistols going for 300,000 rounds, but this hasn’t been documented to the best of my knowledge. What has been documented is the FBI tests that resulted in adoption of the Springfield FBI Pistol (Professional Model) for the agency’s regional SWAT teams. In these grueling tests, the candidate pistol had to fire 50,000 rounds without parts breakage. Many FBI agents report that their issue Springfields are still going strong after 50,000 rounds. More recently, Nighthawk Custom’s Global Response Pistols are guaranteed to have a 100,000 round service life. The FBI renewed its contract with Springfield, this time for M1911 type pistols with a MIL-STD-1913 rail on the dust cover to accommodate tactical lights. M1911s from Kimber or Springfield ride in the holsters of LAPD SWAT, US Marine Corps MEU-SOC units, the SOCOM USMC Detachment, Drug Enforcement Administration, Tacoma Washington Police Department, and numerous other law enforcement agencies.

Springfield Stainless 1911 Cocked And Locked

Cocked And Locked
As mentioned, the M1911 is arguably the fastest pistol on the planet to draw and get into action. This is because it is carried cocked and locked. As the pistol comes up, the thumb sweeps the safety off and the pistol is ready to do its self-defense job. The single action M1911 has other advantages, as well. Since it is a single action pistol, the trigger pull is the same every time, unlike DA/SA pistols that have a long initial trigger pull followed by a short single action pull thereafter. Double action only (DAO) pistols are IMHO generally abominations that are adopted by law enforcement agencies whose primary concern is liability, rather than officer safety.

Another previously mentioned ergonomic aspect of the M1911 is its grip angle, which makes the pistol the most natural pointing handgun ever designed. The grip angle is so close to perfection that many handgun designers incorporate it in their pistols to this day. Designs that incorporate the M1911 grip angle include pistols from Beretta, Heckler & Koch and Taurus, among others. Pointing a pistol with the 1911’s grip angle is almost as natural as pointing one’s finger. The 1911’s controls are ideally placed. The safety is in just the right position to be manipulated by the right thumb, as is the slide stop and magazine release. The only “improvements” to the original design since 1911 have been the incorporation of ambidextrous safeties for southpaws. If the shooter is right handed, there is no need for the ambidextrous safety, nor is there any need for full length guide rods that do nothing but make the pistol more difficult to disassemble and reassemble. Before some reader writes in taking me to task about how full length guide rods prevent the recoil spring from “snaking” inside the dust cover, don’t waste your time. The spring doesn’t “snake” because there is no room for it to do so.

I have seen high speed x-ray motion pictures of an M1911A1 cycling and trust me, the spring stays straight with a standard guide rod, just as John Moses Browning intended.

Design Improvements?
With all the changes in firearms technology that have transpired since 1911, none have had a significant impact on the basic M1911 design. About the only meaningful improvements to Browning’s original design have been sights. The original M1911’s sights were about useless and those of the later M1911A1 only slightly better. Most modern M1911 type pistols have much better sights than the originals and that’s about it. Sure, ejection ports have been enlarged and flared and “beavertail” grip safeties have ended hammer bite and enhanced control by slightly lowering the pistol in the shooter’s hand, safety levers have been extended and magazine releases raised for better accessibility, but that’s about it.

In the final analysis, if one is willing to learn how to proficiently use a 1911 type pistol, there is nothing really any better for self defense use. Moreover, the variety of 1911 type pistols and accessories is mind boggling. The variety is so great that Brownell’s, the world’s premier supplier of gun parts and gunsmithing tools, has a separate catalog just for 1911 type pistols. The beauty of many custom parts and components is that they can be installed by any 1911 owner who has the least bit of gunsmithing skills and many are simply “drop in” parts. Would you like a .22 pistol for practice? Brownell’s has the conversion that simply replaces the slide, magazine and barrel. Changing from .45 ACP to .22 LR takes only a few seconds and the process is identical to disassembling and reassembling the pistol for cleaning.

Kimber 1911 22LR Conversion Kit

I bought a Colt World War I Commemorative 1911 replica a few months ago as a collectible pistol. Although fully functional, I bought it as an investment and don’t intend to ever shoot it. It is an exact replica of the original 1911 as adopted by the US Army nearly 100 years ago.

The point? Although there have been quite a few changes over the years, the basic 1911 is the “same as it ever was” and if necessary, you could take my replica or an original 1911 and depend on it to get you through a crisis, knowing that the pistol’s basic functioning and its reliability and lethality haven’t changed in nearly a century.

How long will the 1911 be on the front lines of military and law enforcement?

Charlie Cutshaw

Nobody can say with certainty, but one thing is sure – unless Obama succeeds in banning handguns, the 1911 is going to be with us for a very long time.

• Para USA
• Kimber
• Brownells
• Springfield

About the Author:
Charlie Cutshaw is a well-known U.S. authority on military small arms and has an extensive experience as a former U.S. Army infantry, ordnance ammunition and intelligence officer. He is an editor for Jane’s Infantry Weapons and contributing author for other military and firearms publications. When not writing Charlie is a part time police officer in Alabama. Si vis pacem, para bellum MOLON LABE!

Colt M1917 Revolver

FirearmsTruth.com

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- The United States was the only major combatant of WWI and WWII that issued handguns to non-commissioned officers.

Most nations treated handguns as a symbol status to be handed out to officers, not as a frontline battle weapon. The U.S. considered side arms an important supplement to the trench fighting of the First World War. The average combatant of the Great War carried a bolt-action rifle and the use of a quick-firing pistol is easy to understand when it comes to defending or assaulting trenches.

The standard military pistol at the time of the U.S.’s entry into WWI was the M1911 .45 automatic. But because the country was woefully unprepared to fight, a supplementary pistol was required that could be more quickly manufactured. Colt redesigned its M1909 revolver and the M1917 was born. The M1917 fired the same round as the M1911 and filled the combat gaps that weren’t able to procure the more desirable M1911’s. Colt produced 150,000 M1917s, with Smith & Wesson adding an additional 153,000 M1917s to military stocks during the war.

After the war, the M1917 was retired and became part of the country’s reserve stock. When the United Stated entered WWII, it was once again woefully under armed. The M1917’s were taken out of the reserve stock and refurbished. Most were cleaned and the original blued metal was parkerized. Most retained their walnut grips but a few were given plastic grips. The arsenal performing the refurbishing work was stamped on the frame.

Most refurbished M1917’s were used by the Military Police and as training weapons, but nearly 21,000 made it to the various fronts. Many WWII collectors prefer the refurbished M1917’s to the same model used in WWI. Evidence of parkerization, buffing and arsenal initials indicates a refurbished pistol. After WWII, the M1917 was retired and many were sold to civilians.

Colt M1917 Revolver Schematic

John Kullman is managing editor of FirearmsTruth.com, a website that tracks and reports on media bias against guns and Second Amendment rights.

Hi-Point .45 ACP Carbine Model 4595TS shown with optional $24.99 (MSRP) folding hand grip.

Hi-PointFirearms.com

Dayton, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Hi-Point Carbines, one of the best firearm bargains available in today’s market, debuts their NEW .45 ACP carbine.

After years of requests this new much desired .45 ACP Hi-Point carbine has finally arrived. Affordable Hi-Point firearms are warranted for the life of the gun, not just the first owner and have proven to be robust, accurate, and fiddle free.

As with the 9mm and .40 Caliber Hi-Point carbines the longer barrel will increase velocity figures between 80-200 FPS over a like chambered handgun, especially with +P loads. These velocity increases coupled with the fat formidable .45 round, improved carbine handling and a longer sighting radius over a handgun make this an excellent gun for small game (Hi-Point Carbines are legal for deer in some states), plinking, home defense and law enforcement.

The robust all weather black molded polymer skeletonized stock is both tough and light in weight. Additionally the forearm offers an excellent grabby surface regardless of conditions or whether the user is wearing gloves, mitts or is bare handed. The carbine has three top-side and forearm bottom Picatinny rails for optional vertical grips, lasers, optics and lights.

The simple blow back design reliably feeds ammunition from the compact single stack 9-round (10 rounds in 9mm and .40S&W) magazine which also fits the Hi-Point series of like caliber semi-auto pistols.

Hi-Point Carbines are employed by law enforcement world-wide and have proven they can easily match more expensive carbines. It can be expected that this new powerful .45ACP carbine will be very popular with both cash strapped municipalities and consumers alike.

Specifications:

• Price: $330 MSRP
• Finish: Special high-durability black powder coat
• Stock: Black molded polymer-(with standard upper and lower Picatinny rails).
• Barrel length: 171/2-inches
• Overall length: 33-inches
• Weight: 71/2-pounds.
• Magazine capacity: 9-rounds.
• Sight: Adjustable front post and adjustable rear (ghost ring)
• Warranty: Lifetime on parts and labor that follows the gun.
• Manufacturer: Hi-Point of Mansfield Ohio-every part is made in the U.S.A.
• Factory affordable options are available: Folding grip, laser, scope sight, etc.

Consumers may gain more information by going to: www.hi-pointfirearms.com or by contacting the Marketer for Hi-Point, MKS Supply, Inc, 8611-A North Dixie Drive, Dayton OH 45414; or by phone to MKS Supply at 877-425-4867 or 937-454-0363.

Hi-Point Firearm 95TS Carbine

ATI FX Thunderbolt 1911 Pistol

American Tactical Imports

ROCHESTER, NY –-(Ammoland.com)- American Tactical Imports, a worldwide importer of firearms, is proud to announce the release of the FX45 Series, a .45ACP caliber 1911 pistol series from Shooters Arms Manufacturing in the Philippines.

The impressive ATI FX45 Series includes five pistols priced from $449.95: the ATI FX Military, the ATI FX GI, the ATI FX Thunderbolt, the ATI FX Titan Blue and the ATI FX Titan Stainless.

The ATI FX Military weighs 2.31 lbs. and is 8.5” long. The 1911 has a 5” barrel, all steel parts, a matte black military front and rear site, a military slide stop and safety lock, solid mahogany grips, 8+1 magazine capacity and a MSRP of $449.95. This single-action, semi-automatic pistol is compatible with many different brands of 1911 magazine.

The ATI FX GI weighs 2 lbs., is 7.9” long and has a 4.25” barrel. This gun has all steel parts, a matte black military front and rear site, a military slide stop and safety lock, 8+1 magazine capacity, solid mahogany grips, and a MSRP of $449.95. The FX GI, like the FX Military, is a single-action, semi-automatic pistol and is compatible with many different brands of 1911 magazine.

The ATI FX Thunderbolt weighs 2.4 lbs. and is 8.7” long with a 5” barrel. It sports chrome steel parts, a picatinny rail, 8+1 magazine capacity, mahogany, textured grips, and white dot LPA Bomar sights. The MSRP is $699.95.

Both the ATI FX Titan Blue and the ATI FX Titan Stainless weigh 1.76 lbs. and are 6.9” long. The Titans have 3.13” barrels, low profile rear sights, dovetail Front sites, two-stage recoil spring systems, military slide stops and safety locks, 7+ 1 magazine capacity, and mahogany grips. The FX Titan Stainless has all chrome steel parts. The Titan Blue has a MSRP of $519.95 and the Titan Stainless is listed at $599.95.

American Tactical Imports is the exclusive U.S. representative of quality firearms, ammunition and equipment from around the globe. They have quickly established themselves as a reputable and recognized importer. ATI replaces the manufacturer as the exclusive representative in the distribution chain, only selling to legitimate distributors in the United States. To order American Tactical Imports’ products, inquire about its distributors at your local gun shop.

ATI FX GI 1911 Pistol

ATI FX Military 1911 Pistol

ATI FX Titan Blue 1911 Pistol

ATI FX Titan Stainless 1911 Pistol

For more information regarding this product available from American Tactical Imports, please visit www.americantactical.us

Wilson Combat X-TAC 1911 Pistol

Wilson Combat

Berryville, AR - -(AmmoLand.com)- Enhanced grip texture, Enhanced sight picture and Wilson Combat’s legendary attention to detail add up to a unique new offering destined to be a top choice of working operators everywhere.

The new bi-directional, X-Tac frontstrap and slide treatment offer enhanced grip and improved durability over traditional checkering in severe and hard-use environments.

Scientifically designed to work with dry or wet hands, with our without tactical gloves, the X-Tac pattern redefines secure shooting comfort and gun handling without the coarse, often painful nature of other grip treatments. In tandem with our G-10 Starburst grips, the X-Tac tread pattern locks securely into the firing hand and will reduce muzzle flip without snagging on clothes or cover garments.

The X-Tac proudly wears our newest rear sight, the Wilson Combat 1911 Battlesight. This high profile rear sight has a .145” wide U-Notch for optimum sighting in low-light, dynamic range conditions. The rear blade of the sight is serrated, while the notch area is recessed into a semi-circular pocket for a crisp, protected sight picture. Accompanied by the new heavy-duty Wilson Combat fiber optic front sight, this resulting sight picture is clearly amazing.

Wearing a time-tested Mil-Spec Parkerized phosphate finish for further enhanced grip, the X-Tac is everything needed in a professional’s working gun without any of the frills except superior performance.

Base Model Starting at $2,395.00

KEY FEATURES:

• Full-Size Carbon Steel Frame
• Unique X-Tac Frontstrap/Mainspring Housing Treatment
• High-Ride Beavertail Grip Safety
• Tactical Thumb Safety
• 3 ½# – 3 ¾# Crisp Trigger Pull
• Contoured Magazine Well
• G10 Starburst Grips
• 5” Carbon Steel Slide
• 1911 Battlesight U-Notch Rear Sight with 40 LPI Serrations, Improved Ramp Front Sight with Heavy-Duty Fiber Optic Insert
• 5” Stainless Match Grade Barrel & Bushing (.45 ACP), Hand Fit
• Unique X-Tac Rear Cocking Serration Treatment
• Black Parkerize Finish
• De-Horn for Carry
• Test-Fire and Zero

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Caliber .45ACP
• Magazine Capacity 8 Round
• Barrel Length 5”
• Overall Length 8.7”
• Sight Radius 6.6”
• Height 5.6”
• Width 1.3”
• Weight Empty 38.1 oz.
• Weight Loaded 46.2 oz.
• Accuracy Guarantee 1 “ at 25 yds.

Wilson Combat

About:
Founded in 1977, Wilson Combat has grown to include more than 50 employees – no one else in the custom gun business has as many professionals, as many years of experience, or as much history with hand-crafting custom guns as we do. Here’s an idea of the type and number of years experience you will find at Wilson Combat.

Wilson CQB Custom 1911 Handgun

GUNS Magazine

San Diego, Calif. --(Ammoland.com)- GUNS Magazine, celebrating its 55th year, commemorates its July issue by offering one lucky reader a chance of winning a prize package valued at more than $3,000. Custom is the name of the game in GUNS July giveaway, and few guns define “Custom Production” like Wilson Combat.

The Wilson CQB is a masterpiece defensive handgun and offers features usually unheard of in a production gun. A Custom Exotic Concealable Galco holster is included and rounds out July’s GUNS’ prize package.

“Wilson Combat pretty much wrote the book on custom 1911 handguns and this issue’s giveaway package showcases Wilson’s quality and innovation,” said Roy Huntington, publisher of GUNS. “Pair the CQB 1911 with a custom Galco holster and you’ve got a self-defense duo able to handle any situation.”

“The Wilson CQB is a top-quality 1911 .45 ACP built by one of the original companies to offer custom 1911 pistols to the competitor and serious student of self-defense,” said Jeff John, editor of GUNS. “Bill Wilson knows how a defensive pistol should be made and the CQB is the result. Since this pistol combines function with beauty, we decided to offer an elegant holster, too. We chose the Galco Custom Shop’s Concealable Model in alligator skin lined with horsehide. Such a holster is both durable and smooth to the draw as well as a beautiful.”

Participants may enter online at www.gunsmagazine.com. To complete registration, readers must answer a quick, three-question survey, as well as fill out contact and FFL Dealer information. Entry deadline is Aug. 1, 2010. No purchase necessary to enter. Visit the website for complete entry details and restrictions.

Lucky Gunner Ammuntion

KNOXVILLE, TN --(AmmoLand.com)- This week, LuckyGunner.com, the Internet’s only “no back-orders ever!” ammo retailer is offering the following bulk ammo specials on handgun ammo to our visitors:

• 45 acp ammo – 230 grain full metal jacket (FMJ) – from Armscor, for $415 per 1000 rounds. This new ammo is made of quality components and is non-corrosive, in boxer primed, reloadable brass cases. We currently have 27 cases in stock for this special price.
• 9mm ammo – 115 grain full metal jacket (FMJ) – from Winchester, for $.28 per round in a case of 1000. This high-quality, reliable American-made ammo is new production, non-corrosive, in boxer primed reloadable brass cases. This is great ammo at a great price, so check it out, as we currently have only 6 left in stock. We are also running a special on some 9mm ammo – 115 grain full metal jacket (FMJ) by Fiocchi on special in boxes of 50 for $15. Fiocchi is an Italian manufacturer and is an established, precision cartridge producer. We currently have 191 of these in stock.

LuckyGunner.com is also offering the following special pricing for rifle ammo this week:

• 223 Rem – 55 grain full metal jacket (FMJ) – from Tula for $225 per 1000 rounds. We have 46 cases of these currently in stock. We are also offering 223 Rem in 62 grain from Tula for $235 per 1000 rounds. This heavier bullet is harder to find than the 55 grain and is great for target plinking. We currently have 80 cases of these in stock.
• 7.62×39 – 124 grain full metal jacket boat-tail (FMJ-BT) – from Golden Tiger, for $230 for a case of 1000, and we currently have 47 cases in stock. We are also offering special prices on smaller quantities of this ammo from around $.27 per round. It’s obviously a better deal to buy in bulk, but if you are looking for just a box or two, the pricing is still great for this ammo. We have 90 boxes of this currently in stock and ready to ship.

These are just a few of the bulk ammo deals we have going on this week, and this special pricing will last until March 6, 2010.

Be sure to visit LuckyGunner.com for a full list of this week’s specials and other current deals we are offering. To find our weekly specials anytime you visit the site, just enter the term “special pricing” up in the top right-hand search bar at LuckyGunner.com. That way you’ll always be able to see what we’ve currently got in stock and on sale.

As is always the case with LuckyGunner.com, when you order before 2pm EST on a weekday, your order will ship the very same day. Orders placed after 2pm EST or on a weekend ship out the next business day. Our live inventory counter ensures that what you see is what we’ve got. Every time. No exceptions.

Visit: www.luckygunner.com

Taurus 24/7 G2 Semi-Auto Pistol

Taurus Firearms

MIAMI, FL --(AmmoLand.com)- Combining the best features from the Taurus 800 Series, 24/7 Series and 24/7 OSS™, the new 24/7 G2 semi-auto pistol series offers true next-generation performance.

The 24/7 G2 is the culmination of the wisdom and experience of firearms designers who are passionate about performance.

The 24/7 G2 is available in 9mm, .40 cal. and .45 ACP, with choice of Taurus’ advanced DA/SA trigger system, double-action or single action only trigger. Offered in blued or stainless, features include “Strike Two” capability for incredible reliability, a new trigger safety, balanced spring pressure for extraordinarily fast shooting, low-profile adjustable rear sights for windage and elevation, ambidextrous magazine release and Picatinny rail.

Taurus 24/7 G2 Semi-Auto Pistol

Contoured ambidextrous thumb rests and finger indexing Taurus Memory Pads™, polymer body construction with smooth and functional contours and polymer grip with metallic inserts and three interchangeable backstraps will make each owner feel like the gun was build specifically for them. Also offered in compact model for easier carry and long slide version for better sight picture and improved accuracy.

Standard safety features for the G2 Series include a vertical loaded chamber indicator that is visible from both sides, firing pin block and the unique Taurus Security System® that allows users to securely lock the gun using an inconspicuous key-lock. Additional model-specific safety features include firing pin cocking indicator, ambidextrous slide stop, ambidextrous manual decocker latch and ambidextrous manual safety latch. For information about model-specific safety features, please visit www.taurususa.com.

Taurus 24/7 G2 Semi-Auto Pistol

Beginning as a small tool manufacturer in Porto Alegre, Brazil more than sixty years ago, Taurus has become a diversified, international company celebrating resounding success as one of the world’s leading small arms manufacturers. In 1941 the company produced its first revolver, and in 1984 changed the industry forever by offering customers an unqualified LIFETIME REPAIR POLICY™, posting record growth every year since.

For additional information about Taurus and its complete line of products, visit www.taurususa.com.

EDITORS NOTE: We have had multiple reports that CO Arms is out of business, not delivering goods, not calling back customers and not refunding customer deposits. Until we hear otherwise we want to warn all our readers of this before you do business with C.O Arms.

Introducing the Scorpion and the Stinger 1911′s by C.O. Arms

C.O. Arms Scorpion 1911

C.O. Arms

Millington, TN –-(AmmoLand.com)- C.O. Arms, a West Tennessee manufacturer of high quality 1911 pistols, is proud to introduce the Scorpion and the Stinger models to the public.

The C.O. Arms Scorpion is the original high quality 1911 made by C.O. Arms. With a forged stainless steel slide and frame, the craftsmanship of this pistol is unmistakable. The Scorpion model also features a match grade barrel and quality high-end sighting system that truly sets it apart and above others in its class.

The C.O. Arms Stinger is the ultimate concealed carry 1911. With a standard grip length on a forged aluminum lightweight frame, the Stinger provides the advantage of a 9-round capacity .45 ACP ammunition with a 3 ¼ inch barrel for easy concealment. These characteristics in addition to its enhanced pointability make the Stinger a pistol without equal.

With a close attention to detail and an evidence of raw talent, the men and women at C.O. Arms work to create a timeless, American-made product that will please any gun owner or enthusiast who shares in the legacy of the 1911.

For more information about C.O. Arms and their high quality 1911s, please call 206.888.2899 and leave your name and contact information.

EDITORS NOTE: We have had multiple reports that CO Arms is out of business, not delivering goods, not calling back customers and not refunding customer deposits. Until we hear otherwise we want to warn all our readers of this before you do business with C.O Arms.

Stoeger

ACCOKEEK, MD –-(AmmoLand.com)- Stoeger Industries is introducing two new configurations for their Cougar semi-auto pistols, chambered in 9mm Parabellum and .40 S&W.

In addition to the original all-matte black version, there are two attractive new finishes.

The first option is a non-glare Bruniton® silver steel slide with an anodized alloy matte-silver frame. The second version comes in a two-tone style, featuring a matte Bruniton® black steel slide combined with an anodized alloy matte-silver frame.

Bruniton® is the same battle-proven finish applied to the sidearms of the United States Armed Forces. For corrosion-resistance and durability, it is vastly superior to the more traditional blued or parkerized finishes. Both models sport black polymer tactical grips, allowing for a positive hold that helps maintain better control of the pistol during recoil.

The Cougar series are double-action pistols, featuring a rotating barrel that locks with the slide, which provides greater strength and accuracy. The barrels are cold hammer-forged and the bores are hard chrome-lined for exceptional durability. Additional features include rounded edges for snag-free drawing; removable front sight, ambidextrous safety, and combat-style trigger guard. Incorporating the finest technology and proven semi-auto features, the Cougar is a light, compact and reliable pistol. Each caliber of the Cougar models come standard with two high-capacity magazines.

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

Stoeger Cougar Pistol in 45ACP

Stoeger

ACCOKEEK, MD –-(AmmoLand.com)- Stoeger Industries is pleased to announce that the Cougar-series of double-action, semi-auto pistols now includes the .45 ACP caliber.

A new feature, available only on the .45 ACP model, is an integrated accessory-rail positioned under the barrel for convenient placement of tactical lights and lasers.

The .45 ACP is arguably the most respected pistol cartridge ever designed with more than a century of outstanding results in major conflicts and law enforcement to underline its superb and proven performance.

Cougar pistols feature a rotating barrel that locks with the slide, meaning extra strength, and because it stays on the same plane for each shot, greater accuracy is achieved. The barrels are cold hammer-forged and the bores are hard chrome-lined for exceptional durability, which promotes longer barrel life. Additional features include rounded-edges for snag-free drawing; removable front-sight, ambidextrous safety, and combat-style trigger guard. External surfaces are protected with the exclusive Bruniton® non-reflective finish. The Cougar .45 comes equipped with two 8-round magazines.

“Incorporating the finest technology and maintaining proven semi-auto features, the Cougar is a light, compact and reliable pistol,” said Stephen McKelvain, Vice President of Marketing & Communications. “Accuracy, reliability and manageable recoil makes the Cougar a perfect choice for home defense, or range shooting available at a great price.”

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

Hornady Ammunition

Grand Island, NE --(AmmoLand.com)- The first annual Adams Arms Ozark 3-Gun Championship, held September 25 – 27, 2009 in Kaiser, Missouri brought out 100 plus shooters, with Tate Moots winning the Heavy Metal Class. Winning all eight stages, shot on natural open terrain was quite a challenge as Mother Nature’s unpredictability presented various lighting conditions along with wet and muddy loose gravel for competitors to struggle with.

Moots, a member of Team Hornady for over three years selected Hornady 45 Auto 230 grain XTP ammo in his STI 1911 and 308 155 grain TAP FPD in his DPMS LR-308. Always looking for new shooting adventures, Tate also competes in Sniper Matches using Hornady 6.5 Creedmoor 140 A-MAX ammunition.

After winning the Heavy Metal Class, Tate said, “Hornady ammunition never fails me. In 3-Gun competitions, it’s critical for me to be able to rely on my equipment running. Hornady ammo always does just what it’s suppose to, it always performs.”

“The heavy metal class requires an extra level of focus due to increased recoil and iron sighted rifles, it’s critical that the ammunition performs flawlessly, guys like Tate make it look easy, and we’ll keep doing our best to make them look good.” said Steve Johnson, Hornady Marketing Communications Manager.

Founded in 1949, Hornady Manufacturing Company is a family owned business headquartered in Grand Island, Nebraska. Proudly manufacturing products that are “Made in the USA”, by over 300 employees, Hornady Manufacturing has become a world leader in bullet, ammunition, reloading tool and accessory design and manufacture.

For further information regarding our products visit the Hornady website.

The Bill Wilson Carry Pistol - BWC-CP-45

Wilson Combat

Berryville, AR - -(AmmoLand.com)- BWC-CP-45 – After the Television appearances by the boss (Bill Wilson), we received so many calls to find out which pistol Bill carries on a daily basis. Well here it is!! The “Bill Wilson Carry Pistol” is the pistol Bill carries every day. He gave me the complete list of his favorite touches and how a carry gun should be outfitted.

Take a Wilson Combat CQB Compact, add the new “Round Butt” treatment, shorten the slide stop pin and counter sink the frame (giving you the option to use the Crimson Trace laser grips), slide top serrations, our new “Carry Cuts”, and finally this wonderful pistol is fitted with Bill’s favorite thumb-safety. This “Carry pistol” is outfitted exactly as Bill would want it, wearing a set of Wilson Combat Starburst G10 grips with a black slide over a grey frame custom built to exacting standard by some of the best pistolsmiths in the world today.

“After a short discussion about the features that he wanted in his carry gun the Bill Wilson Carry Pistol was born. Start with the time proven CQB Compact, add a round butt for absolute shooting comfort, carry cuts to slim the slide front profile making re-holstering easier, slide top serrations to cut the glare when picking up the front sight, shorten the slide stop for a thinner profile while allowing the use of laser grips, and finally mark it with “BW” giving Bill’s stamp of approval. All of this in Bill’s favorite colors, black slide over a grey frame makes for not only a great looking pistol, but a formidable concealed carry pistol. Remember the Gun of the Month is a spot light on a gun that is currently available in limited quantities, so hurry if you want one now. Contact your local Dealer or your Wilson Combat Representative for details on how you can get one for your holster.”

If you are looking for the perfect carry pistol and you were never sure how exactly it should be, here it is with all the features handpicked to match the gun that Bill carries daily.

About:
Founded in 1977, Wilson Combat has grown to include more than 50 employees – no one else in the custom gun business has as many professionals, as many years of experience, or as much history with hand-crafting custom guns as we do. Here’s an idea of the type and number of years experience you will find at Wilson Combat.

Smith & Wesson 1911 .45 ACP

Classification: Handguns
Category: Pistols
Model Name: 1911 .45 ACP
Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson
Model Number: 1911 .45 ACP

GunReports.com

GunReports.com – -(AmmoLand.com)- The SW1911 operates with two functional variations on traditional 1911 design. The first variation is an externally mounted extractor. John Browning himself saw the extractor as the one weak point in the 1911 system and developed the external design to enhance reliability and maintenance. The second difference is in the control of the firing pin via the grip safety. Depress the grip safety and the firing pin is free to move forward. This is very similar to the Schwartz system that was adapted for use in the Kimber Type II pistols, but Smith & Wesson has claimed new patents on its variation.

Elsewhere, another difference between Smith & Wesson and many other firearms companies is that Smith & Wesson is a manufacturer and not merely an importer of complete pistols or of parts that they assemble in stateside factories. Industry buzz says that in fact, Smith & Wesson has been manufacturing frames and slides for other companies that produce 1911 pistols.

Now it is Smith & Wesson’s turn. We received our 1911 just weeks before its official introduction at the 2003 Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show. This new pistol was finished in handsome satin stainless with distinctive gold graphics. Cocking serrations were cut on the front and back of the slide. Novak low-mount three-dot sights were dovetailed into place. Lockup was via a bushing with a full-length guide rod. The grips were a tasteful black rubber. The mainspring housing was also black and cleanly checkered. Other black accents were the beavertail grip safety, the slide release, left-side-only thumb safety and checkered magazine-release button. The hammer is skeletonized with the sides polished, but the interior of its sculpture and the outer surface continues the theme of using a black contrast. Two eight-round magazines were supplied. We measured the single-action trigger to break at exactly 4 pounds.

When we fired this gun over five different range sessions, we were impressed when it delivered five-shot groups of 3.0 inches and under with virtually every scrap of ammunition we could find in our closet. Most groups were in the 2.7-inch range. If the SW1911 is not a top-grade target pistol, then it is among the most consistent shooting pistols we have seen come off an assembly line in some time. This is not an inexpensive pistol nor is it out of the ballpark, either. It is our impression that the design intent of this pistol was for its designers to hear someone someday refer to the SW 1911 pistol as “old reliable.” We had no failures to feed, extraction issues, or any other problem.

READ FULL GUN REPORT
READ RATINGS AND RECOMMENDATION ON GUN TESTS

About:
Gun Reports is a new site designed specifically for the gun enthusiast. When it comes to selecting a firearm, serious shooters can find valuable and detailed reports with specifications on each gun. Explore the latest evaluations on today’s most talked about handguns, rifles, shotguns and other specialty guns. Compare how different guns stack up against similar models in terms of performance and price. It doesn’t matter if you buy guns for hunting, target shooting, collecting or self-defense, with Gun Reports you’ll buy better, safer, more accurate guns…and have more fun shooting because of it.

Register with our site for free and get even greater access to Gun Reports. Members of the site have the ability to share their thoughts and recommendations on featured guns and get full side-by-side gun comparisons.

Sig Sauer 1911 C3 No. 19GS0031 45 ACP

Classification: Handguns
Category: Pistols
Model Name: 1911 C3
Manufacturer: SIG Arms
Model Number: No. 19GS0031

GunReports.com

GunReports.com - -(AmmoLand.com)- An the opinion of many experienced shooters, the 45 Auto is the caliber of choice in self-defensive pistols. However, most of these guns, like the classic 1911 Colt, are big and heavy. Therefore, they often get left behind for a lighter piece, which generally is of lower power. If you still want the power of a 45, why not go to a smaller and lighter gun?

Some of us had come to believe the Colt CCO was the finest 45 available. However, the last version of it, called the Gunsite number O9840CGP, is now discontinued. But fear not, the Sig Sauer 1911 C3 is here, and is an even better, more refined version of the CCO. And it’s cheaper.

Our first impression of the Sig C3 was that someone had stolen the CCO we had on hand, and had copied it in great detail. Only the engraving was missing. Then we noticed some differences, and on inspection these became very significant, entirely in the favor of Sig Sauer. First up were the thin grips. After handling the CCO we grasped the C3 with its grip of slim, fancy-wood panels, and immediately liked it. These make the gun feel smaller and lighter, and about half as thick as the CCO. The slim grip panels were checkered in a pleasing pattern that left smooth wood under the thumb and index finger.

The mainspring housing was checkered steel, not plastic. The frame also had a finely checkered front strap, something lacking—and needed—on the CCO. The well-done handle of the C3 put the Colt in second place, said our test crew. The entire gun had been dehorned, just like all the aftermarket work done to the CCO by its owner. There were no offending sharp edges anywhere. There was an external extractor behind the ejection port. The slide was matte stainless, with a smooth top that lent distinction to the overall look of this pistol. It was our impression the setup of this gun had been influenced by the experiences of real-world shooters, not corporate executives.

The dovetailed front sight of the Sig was not as slanted at its rear as that of the CCO, so we expected it to grab on the front of our Bachman Slide. It did. Ordinary holsters won’t have that problem. The rear sight was a Novak, adjustable by drifting, and locked with a small Allen screw. The sights had green tritium inserts, and the sight picture was excellent.

Takedown was classic 1911. As on the CCO, there was no spring rod at the front, and we had no trouble at all taking this fine handgun apart nor in putting it back together. Fit and finish inside and out were outstanding, superior to that of the Colt and Kahr. To our surprise we found a firing-pin lock in the Sig’s slide.

On the range, the 4.6-pound trigger felt about as good as that of the CCO. Recoil was essentially identical, but accuracy with all loads was superior to that of the CCO. Our best groups were clusters around an inch with Winchester 230-grain ball. We had one failure to feed with Cor-Bon 185-grain ammo, the only failure with this handgun. Accuracy with Cor-Bon in this gun was the worst of any ammo tried. Yet Cor-Bon gave the finest (qualified) accuracy with the Kahr. Obviously any serious handgun needs serious testing with your chosen ammo.

About:
Gun Reports is a new site designed specifically for the gun enthusiast. When it comes to selecting a firearm, serious shooters can find valuable and detailed reports with specifications on each gun. Explore the latest evaluations on today’s most talked about handguns, rifles, shotguns and other specialty guns. Compare how different guns stack up against similar models in terms of performance and price. It doesn’t matter if you buy guns for hunting, target shooting, collecting or self-defense, with Gun Reports you’ll buy better, safer, more accurate guns…and have more fun shooting because of it.

Register with our site for free and get even greater access to Gun Reports. Members of the site have the ability to share their thoughts and recommendations on featured guns and get full side-by-side gun comparisons.

Masterpiece Arms M45 Cal and 9mm Caliber Top-cocking Carbine Rifles

MasterPiece Arms

BRASELTON, GA – -(AmmoLand.com)- MasterPiece Arms, the nation’s only true MAC-10 manufacturer, introduces four models of carbine rifles to their line.

Known for their innovative alterations to the traditional MAC-10, MasterPiece Arms has taken the simplicity of the firearm’s function and added rifle barrels and several stock options to form a rifle line that is sure to please any varmint hunter or collector.

• MPA1T-A a 45 caliber top-cocking carbine rifle with a 16” threaded barrel. This product comes with one 30-round mag. Thread size is 11/16 x 16. This product has an MSRP of $549.95.
• MPA1SST-A This gun, also a 45 cal carbine rifle, has a side-cocking mechanism and scope mount with a 16” threaded barrel. With a thread size of 11/16 x 16 and includes one 30-round mag. MSRP is $599.95.
• MPA20T-A This 9 mm carbine rifle is a top-cocking model with a 16” threaded barrel. The thread size is ½ x 28 and one 30-round magazine is included. The MSRP is $529.95.
• MPA20SST-A Also a 9 mm, this side-cocking carbine rifle and scope mount has a 16” threaded barrel with ½ x 28 thread size. MSRP is $579.95.

MasterPiece Arms uses state of the art CNC machining, turning, laser cutting and bending in its manufacturing process. MPA puts more than a year and a half into engineering, testing and re-testing its weapons to provide customers with one of the most enjoyable guns available. With versatile uses such as protection, hunting, tactical or novelty interests, MPA products are one of a kind and backed by a lifetime warranty for original owners.

Learn more MasterPiece Arms products at www.masterpiecearms.com, call 866.803.0000 .

About:
MasterPiece Arms, Inc., a gun manufacturer specializing in pistols and rifles, tactical weapons and accessories, has been creating quality guns for over 20 years. MPA gun frames are laser cut and CNC bent. All internals are CNC machined and quality checked for the highest tolerances and the best MAC on the market today.

Wilson Combat Tactical Elite 1911 Handgun

Wilson Combat

Berryville, AR - -(AmmoLand.com)- The Tactical Elite comes with just the features needed to make it a standalone defensive pistol.

Take a hand fitted slide, frame, and add the heavy flanged cone match barrel and you have the basis for one of the best pistols for daily use.

The upfront weight provided by the flanged cone barrel makes for the fastest follow-up shots.

This pistol includes a fully checkered front strap to make for the best fighting grip. The tactical ambi-safety allows for conditions that may require weak hand shooting that can happen in real world confrontations.

The Wilson Combat speed-chute offers the advantage of speedy reloads. This pistol arrives equipped with Combat Pyramid Tritium night sights, zeroed and ready to go to work.

The Tactical Elite is finished completely in black Armor-Tuff to not only look great, but to provide all the protection that your new custom pistol deserves.

If a good looking pistol that allows for faster on target follow-up shots with all the right features with nothing wasted, the Tactical Elite should be your next pistol.

The Tactical Elite as described is offered for sale in California.

Gun of the Month – Shipped on a First Come-First Served Basis – Limited Availability
Contact Your Local Dealer or Call Wilson Combat.

About:
Founded in 1977, Wilson Combat has grown to include more than 50 employees – no one else in the custom gun business has as many professionals, as many years of experience, or as much history with hand-crafting custom guns as we do. Here’s an idea of the type and number of years experience you will find at Wilson Combat:

Para Ordnance P12-45 .45 ACP Pistol

Classification: Handguns
Category: Pistols
Model Name: P12-45
Manufacturer: Para-Ordnance Mfg. Inc.
Model Number: P12-45

GunReports.com

GunReports.com - -(AmmoLand.com)- Small semiautos that match the physical dimensions of pistols we tested recently—such as Para-Ordnance’s $740 P12-45—are usually referred to as compacts or sub-compact. But when pistols of this size class are miniaturized 1911s, the tag of “Officer’s models” is hung on to them, even though they may not exactly fit the mold of the original Colt’s Officer’s model.

Manufacturers are taking a fresh look at the Officer’s model for a number of reasons. For one, the 1911 pistol has legions of fans inside both competitive shooting and law-enforcement circles. Also, many military and ex-military personnel recognize the .45 ACP’s superiority over the 9mm Parabellum, a cartridge choice often perceived as NATO’s intrusion into American affairs. Once the United States government set a capacity limit for civilian handguns, the trend has been toward larger-caliber rounds, even when this means lower total capacity. Traditionally the Officer’s model offered a six-round magazine, like the 945’s. However, the Para Ordnance P12 integrates a double-stack or staggered-round magazine that in civilian trim will hold the full ten-round legal limit.

The P12 has been around a while and is essentially bug free. It fits the hand surprisingly well and points easily. Function was 100 percent despite warnings from some gunsmiths who seem weary of semiautos fitted with short slides. The P12 action also includes a Series 80–style firing pin block. This mechanism is not a favorite with 1911 purists, and some gunsmiths have a difficult time refining the action with this feature in place. But the P12 did not suffer any malfunctions because of it.

Our only complaints were the trigger. It was smooth but heavy, and this, coupled with a front sight blade that was too tall (approximately 0.153 inch) made for hits that printed low. We felt that having to hold the muzzle up when firing offhand was also having a negative effect on trigger feel, but each of these complaints should be easily remedied.

A coupon for one legally obtainable 12-round magazine from the factory is included along with one 10-round magazine. The supplied magazine comes with a base pad that offers a small forward lip that does add control without getting in the way of concealment. The aforementioned sights are a three-dot design, highly visible with the rear unit in the configuration of the (Richard) Heinie Slant-Pro. This means the face of the unit is slanted forward to offer better concealment. To ward off glare, the surface that faces the shooter is lined, and its profile is rounded for snag-free handling.

Another feature that only a short time ago was a custom part is the Ed Brown Memory Groove grip safety. This raises the area so that contact and compression is sure to deactivate the grip safety and enable the gun to fire.

Unlike the Smith & Wesson 945, the P12 was the only gun in the test that did not require special attention to placement of the web of the hand to make the gun go bang. The plastic grip panels are extremely thin and give the receiver a solid look and feel, but from there on no attempt was made to make the P12 look fancy. For example, Para Ordnance could easily charge more for

Courtesy, Gun Tests

On the backstrap, the Ed Brown Memory Groove grip safety ensures that contact and compression deactivates the grip safety and enables the gun to fire.

the P12 if only it had a skeletonized trigger and enlarged the hole in the hammer tang, even if such modifications did nothing to enhance performance. Slide serrations are rearward only, which in our opinion is just as well given its small size. Using any other method other than the pinch technique to rack the slide or check the chamber would likely place the hand over the ejection port or in front of the muzzle. Checkering on the front strap might be a worthwhile addition.

At the bench our P12 turned out to be an old-fashioned 1911, meaning it favored the venerable 230-grain roundnose ammunition. While it did turn in a very good 2.1-inch average firing the 185-grain FMJ round, the combination of the P12 and Winchester’s 230-grain FMJ brought us groups ranging from 0.8 inch to only 1.1 inches for an average of 0.9 inch at 15 yards. This was very reassuring. Results when firing the 185-grain SilverTip rounds were low on everyone’s scorecard, but the P12 handled them as well as the Smith Wesson pistol with average group sizes right at 3.3 inches. The P12 produced more velocity than its competitors, as much as 862 fps when firing the 185-grain Winchester Silvertips. This results in the production of 305 foot-pounds of muzzle energy. Comparing our Officers models to the full-sized pistols we evaluated in our May issue, subtracting about 1 inch of barrel length did little to handicap velocity or power. Firing this same round, velocity ranged from 867-897 fps in the big guns, compared to a range of 836-862 fps in our Officer’s pistols. It would seem that after 3 inches of barrel length, each additional inch of barrel length produces roughly 30 fps.

Lockup on the P12 was solid, with only a hint of play achieved with the use of a conical barrel matched to a bushing. The guide rod is a full-length two-piece affair. Would trigger work have improved our results? Possibly. But we would have to say that the biggest gain after action work would be seen from the standing position rather than from a sandbag rest. The standard trigger was more of a detriment to offhand shooting, where we found it more difficult hold the gun steady while controlling the trigger. Besides a weighty 8-pound pull, the standard trigger has a little up-and-down slop that just adds one more item to deal with.

One item that should not be overlooked is how much a pistol weighs when loaded. Naturally, a standard alloy Officer’s model with only 6+1 rounds aboard will be lighter than a pistol that accepts ten in the magazine. With ten rounds of 230-grain FMJ, the P12 weighs 36 ounces. Contrast these numbers to an all-steel model we have in house. A Springfield V-10 with an extra-capacity single-column seven-round magazine from Wilson Combat ([800] 955-4586) stoked with the 230 FMJs weighs more than 40 ounces. The P12 may be hard to beat.

READ FULL GUN REPORT
READ RATINGS AND RECOMMENDATION ON GUN TESTS

About:
Gun Reports is a new site designed specifically for the gun enthusiast. When it comes to selecting a firearm, serious shooters can find valuable and detailed reports with specifications on each gun. Explore the latest evaluations on today’s most talked about handguns, rifles, shotguns and other specialty guns. Compare how different guns stack up against similar models in terms of performance and price. It doesn’t matter if you buy guns for hunting, target shooting, collecting or self-defense, with Gun Reports you’ll buy better, safer, more accurate guns…and have more fun shooting because of it.

Register with our site for free and get even greater access to Gun Reports. Members of the site have the ability to share their thoughts and recommendations on featured guns and get full side-by-side gun comparisons.

Pic: NotPurfect.com

John L. May - Sales Director - Wilson Combat

Wilson Combat

Berryville, AR - -(AmmoLand.com)- What a crazy time for all of us who support our God given right to keep and bear arms.

Here at the office we have been deluged by thousands of calls and please don’t hold it against us if we can’t get to your call as quickly as in past years.

Everyone at Wilson Combat is working an extended week trying to meet your demands. It is our goal to get your product to you as fast as possible, but no one was prepared for this constant increasing demand for everything gun related.

We like everyone else in the industry have seen demand that is off the chart, only difference is we can’t just throw more in the works, it takes years to develop the skills necessary to build custom guns at the level that you, our customer demand. Thank you for your continued business and your patience while we build your next custom gun.

Crimson Trace Laser Grips with Carbon Fiber Panels

This month we are adding a few cool items to the catalog of accessories for your favorite blaster.

We are always on the lookout for new cool accessories that add to the usability and overall, improve the shooting experience. Take a look at the newest addition to our Crimson Trace laser grips.

Now offered in the Carbon Fiber panels, these are very cool. These will only be available as an OEM installed on a new custom handgun build, but they will save you eighty bucks!!!

Crimson Trace is kind enough to let us offer this deal to Wilson Combat customers on any our or new full-size or compact pistols. The Crimson Trace grips add a whole new dimension to using a pistol under adverse conditions.

Gripwells from Tactical Magwell

Also new this month, Gripwells from Tactical Magwell, this new product offer the AR15 user a gripping surface around the magazine well of their standard AR15, while creating a magazine funnel to allow for faster reloads. Both are great products and are worth looking at as an option to add to your favorite custom gun.

If you, like I, have been busy listening to the news as it relates to gun owners; you have seen there is no more important time to support those that support us. No one is sure what the next step that the gun grabbers will be taking but it is sure that they are working up to something. Join the NRA, just in case you forgot, when anyone buys a new Wilson Combat Custom Firearm we will buy your first years membership in the NRA for you.

Take a look at other organizations that help in the fight and even more importantly education of those that do not know what we are all about. I have the good fortune to travel all over selling guns and I see folks from all over the world who enjoy the freedom of gun ownership. I also see that what used to be one of America’s favorite past-times being almost treated as if it were a secret. I can’t tell you how many incredible smiles I have seen from folks new to shooting or shooting their first time when the sensation hits them.

This is fun! If you are not a member of the NRA, the GOA, or some other organization that supports gun owners, join now. Find a local range and help them teach others the good things about us and get everyone you know shooting.

Check out the special offers in this month’s release, be sure and read Rob Haught’s article and see why Rob is the perfect addition to the Down Range. As always feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns that you may have regarding Wilson Combat products and we will continue to make sure that you are not just satisfied, but extremely satisfied.

Till next time,
Stay safe, shoot straight, and always watch Six!
John L. May
Sales Director
Wilson Combat

Springfield Armory GI 45 Pistol

Springfield Armory GI 45 Pistol

Springfield Armory

GENESEO, IL - -(AmmoLand.com)- Our tribute to the 1911-A1 that started it all, the Springfield Armory® GI 45 1911-A1 single-stack models are built with a forged frame, slide and barrel.

Single-stack models feature low-profile military sights, a standard magazine well, spur hammer, standard ejection port, arched mainspring housing with lanyard loop, vertical slide serrations, hardwood U.S. grips, and titanium firing pin.

In other words, you won’t see these guns on blue velvet in glass cases. They’re either in the holster or in your hand doing their job.

About:
George Washington ordered the creation of Springfield Armory® in 1777 to store revolutionary ammunition and gun carriages. In 1794 the armory began the manufacture of muskets for a young country. For the next 150 years, Springfield Armory® functioned as a supplier for every major American conflict as well as a “think tank” for new firearm concepts. In 1968, citing budgetary concerns, the U.S. Government closed Springfield Armory®. Now, the walls of Springfield Armory® would house historians, paying homage to the past rather than those with an eye to the future…until 1974, when a passionate family by the name of Reese would rescue not only the name “Springfield Armory®,” but the philosophy that drove it for centuries. With reverence for the legacy of the Armory, the Reese family resurrected the most historically significant designs produced by The Armory- M1 Garand, 1911-A1, M14 –and fueled by the same obsession for improved manufacturing techniques and cutting edge design that inspired the likes of John C. Garand, and John Browning, they’ve continued to develop products that are loyal to Springfield Armory’s heritage while ensuring The Armory’s

Springfield Armory XD45 Compact Tactical .45 ACP

Classification: Handguns
Category: Pistols
Model Name: XD45 Compact Tactical .45 ACP
Manufacturer: Springfield Armory
Model Number: XD9655HCSP06

GunReports.com

GunReports.com - -(AmmoLand.com)- In this test we looked at four different polymer handguns that offer higher round capacity but take up less space than full-size models.

Our first pistol, the $503 Taurus PT24/7 Pro 45-BP-12 could be considered a true compact, especially when compared to Taurus’s new OSS pistol.

The Springfield Armory XD45 4-inch Compact XD9645HCSP06, $589; and the Springfield Armory XD45 5-inch Compact Tactical XD9655HCSP06, $619, have undergone the Colt Officers treatment, receiving a shortened grip frame attached to a full-length slide.

The $637 Glock SF21 is a remodeling of the Glock 21, but the SF21 does not seem to be much smaller. We wanted to find out if any of its subtle streamlining added up to a better pistol than the original.

Aficionados of forty-five who crave the Government Model’s power but long for more rounds in a concealable handgun should like the XD45 Compact Tactical. The length of the grips on both the XD Compacts with the 10-round magazine in place was about 0.75 inch shorter than a standard-framed 1911 loaded with a flush-fit magazine.

The original concealable 1911s were custom guns in that their grip frames had been cut in length. This limited capacity to six rounds in the magazine. We measured the XD grip to be 1.2 inches wide at its base. This was about 0.10 inches thinner than a typical 1911 fit with standard width grips.

The XD Compact Tactical differs from the 4-inch model only in the length of its barrel and slide. This increased the sight radius, making the front sight easier to see for most shooters, but it adds about 2.5 ounces to total weight. Additional weight usually adds recoil control, but not when it’s attached to the top end, which is moving back and forth. If the difference in felt recoil between the two model XDs was a negative, then here’s reason to feel good about the need for more attention to the grip. The long 5-inch barrel provided

courtesy, Gun Tests

Removing the top end of the XD pistols required locking back the slide and turning the slide latch upward.

more velocity and power than our other guns. In fact, the extra inch of barrel accounted for about 50 foot-pounds more muzzle energy when compared to the 4-inch XD pistol.

Another aspect of carrying either of the XD pistols with the large magazine in place is the excess weight. For example, it is one thing to carry 15 or 16 rounds of 115-grain 9mm ammunition in the magazine and quite another to tote 13 rounds of 230-grain 45 ACP. This made all the guns in our test top heavy when seated vertically in a belt holster.

Springfield does supply a belt holster and dual magazine pouch with the XD Compacts as well as for other models, but for some body types, this polymer high-ride design can let the gun flop outward, printing against the covering garment. In our opinion a better choice of holster for these guns would be a low-ride model wherein the line of the grip is nearly level with the belt.

The matching dual magazine pouch was exceptional however. It featured a tension adjustable hold that will not come loose and both front and back edges were sculpted with a Picatinny rail for carrying a weapon light or other accessory.

From the bench our test pistol averaged about 1-inch-wide groups for all shots fired.

In our action test of the Tactical model, we landed 17/20 shots in the A-zone. The 20-shot group was tight, but our test shooter was once again pushing shots to the left. Shifting to the head shot, we printed 6/10 shots in the desired spot.

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About:
Gun Reports is a new site designed specifically for the gun enthusiast. When it comes to selecting a firearm, serious shooters can find valuable and detailed reports with specifications on each gun. Explore the latest evaluations on today’s most talked about handguns, rifles, shotguns and other specialty guns. Compare how different guns stack up against similar models in terms of performance and price. It doesn’t matter if you buy guns for hunting, target shooting, collecting or self-defense, with Gun Reports you’ll buy better, safer, more accurate guns…and have more fun shooting because of it.

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Ruger P345 KP345PR .45 ACP Handgun

Classification: Handguns
Category: Pistols
Model Name: P345
Manufacturer: Ruger
Model Number: KP345PR 45 ACP

GunReports.com

GunReports.com – -(AmmoLand.com)- This was one sharp-looking pistol, and fit and finish were well done, we thought. The frame was black polymer and the slide was stainless steel. Both components had sculptured panels and functional cutouts, giving the gun a modern look. Ruger has several versions of the P345. One has a blued slide; another has a spring-loaded decocker instead of our version’s non-rebounding, hammer-dropping, ambidextrous safety; yet another is DAO. Our test gun cannot be carried cocked and locked. Your first shot must be double action, unless you take time to manually cock the gun, nothing you’d want to try in a hurry. This P345 had a decent single-action trigger.

The P345’s two magazines each held eight rounds. The fixed, white-dotted sights were bold, and easily seen. The rear was driftable and locked with a set screw. The front was also set into a dovetail. To our joy, the top of the slide was smooth enough that it would not gouge the hand during clearance drills. To our sorrow, the gun could not be fired with the magazine removed, a tactical blunder that many won’t like.

As noted in our previous report, takedown is a bit unusual, though easily done. The odd part is having to reach inside the gun to tip the ejector forward. Inside we found much innovation, from the clever self-retained spring (held within the slide-spring guide) that holds the main cross pin in place; to the flat-wound buffer spring wrapped beneath the slide spring. The guide rod also contained the barrel lockup, and eliminated a lot of the tricky machining of other designs.

Some shooters prefer steel frames on full-size autos. However, a well-designed and constructed polymer frame has advantages, including lower cost to the buyer, inclusion of checkering, weight reduction, and more. The complaints are that plastic frames cannot easily be changed if you don’t like the shape, and often the gun has a

Courtesy, Gun Tests

The P345 had clearly visible white-dot sights, a hand-friendly top, and pleasant lines. The ambidextrous safety dropped the hammer, so first shots have to be DA unless you cock the hammer.

top-heavy feel. This latter did not apply to the Ruger P345, which we thought balanced well even when unloaded.

One of the oddest items we found was the fact that there is no steel within the polymer frame where it touches the stainless slide. The slide runs in plastic. Damnably strong plastic, however, and the system seems to work well.

The P345 tended to shoot high for some of us, especially when in a hurry. We believe the high shots experienced by both test teams came from the shape of the trigger guard, which forced a large gap between the index and second finger. This could be improved if the guard were undercut, so the gun would sit lower in the hand, but that may not be possible. We thought the P345’s grip was nothing like that of a 1911, though they are similar in size.

We shot the three guns with Hungarian 230-grain ball by MFS, PMC’s 185-grain JHP, and with a handload consisting of a 200-grain SWC cast lead bullet traveling at just under 800 fps. The Ruger functioned perfectly with everything. The magazines were easy to load, and we liked the magazine release. We liked the finger cutouts in the polymer frame, and had complete control of our trigger finger. But we didn’t like the Ruger’s DA trigger pull. Just under 12 pounds, it stacked just before the break. The two-stage, single-action trigger required a take-up of 2.3 pounds, and finally broke at 4.8 pounds. Creep was minimal.

READ FULL GUN REPORT
READ RATINGS AND RECOMMENDATION ON GUN TESTS

About:
Gun Reports is a new site designed specifically for the gun enthusiast. When it comes to selecting a firearm, serious shooters can find valuable and detailed reports with specifications on each gun. Explore the latest evaluations on today’s most talked about handguns, rifles, shotguns and other specialty guns. Compare how different guns stack up against similar models in terms of performance and price. It doesn’t matter if you buy guns for hunting, target shooting, collecting or self-defense, with Gun Reports you’ll buy better, safer, more accurate guns…and have more fun shooting because of it.

Register with our site for free and get even greater access to Gun Reports. Members of the site have the ability to share their thoughts and recommendations on featured guns and get full side-by-side gun comparisons.

Charter Arms’ New Revolutionary Rimless Revolver

Charter Arms – Revolvers

Charter Arms, Dayton, OH --(AmmoLand.com)- Charter Arms announces the Charter Arms Rimless Revolver (CARR) a revolutionary new rimless revolver for popular semi-auto cartridges.

Problem: The major drawback to rimless semi-auto cartridges in revolvers is they require specially made revolvers. These low-production, somewhat scarce and, highly-specialized revolvers are limited to sometimes fragile and expensive moon/half moon ammunition clips. Generally, only revolver aficionados and collectors bother with (.45ACP and 9mm Parabellum) rimless revolvers. While they may sometimes be fired without the specialized moon clips, generally the ejector rod will not eject the free-floating fired cases (got a pencil?).

Solution: Charter Arms has come up with an affordable revolver that chambers rimless semi-auto rounds in the same manner as a standard rimmed-cartridge revolver.

Available Calibers: Charter Arms will first offer the .40 S&W chambering, followed quickly by the .45ACP and 9×19 mm Parabellum (the 9mm Parabellum revolver will also chamber factory .380ACP). All three of Charter Arms’ Rimless Revolvers (9mm, .40 and .45) are rated for higher velocity +P loadings.

Availability:
The first to be built will be the .40 caliber (currently there is no .40 available in any revolver). Charter Arms plan is the .40 should ship to distributors the first quarter of 2009. Some 90-120 days after the .40 the .45ACP will follow and some 90-120 days after the .45ACP the 9mm will follow

The advantage is now the average gun owner can own an affordable, trouble-free revolver chambered in these popular semi-auto rounds without the need for specialized ammunition clips and a specialized gun.

Back up and self-defense: For law enforcement work the always ready-to-fire, fiddle-factor-free revolver is the back up to have; especially if is the same caliber as the officer’s carry gun. As a primary self-defense carry gun, these three calibers mean reliable protection in popular semi-auto self defense-calibers.

If more power is needed, step up to +P ammo. The advantage with Charter Arms Rimless Revolvers is they will fire any mix of cartridges while maintaining 100% reliability. For plinking with .45ACP or 9mm surplus and discounted military type ammo, the affordable Charter Arms Rimless Revolver will prove to be very economical and it’s also a .380 revolver. Now that is fun!

The secret is the patent-pending Charter Arms Rimless Revolver Round System. Basically, when a round is loaded into the chamber a specialized spring engages the cartridge’s ejector groove. When the cylinder is opened and the ejector rod operated, it extracts and ejects the fired cases.

Models: Initially snubbarrels (2″ 9mm and 2.2″ .40 and .45ACP) as these revolvers are designed for self- defense and back up. The 9mm is built on Charter Arms’ compact and lightweight undercover platform featuring an aluminum frame and weighing only 12 ounces. The .40 and .45ACP built on the popular and robust Bulldog frame due to the larger diameter of these cartridges while maintaining a compact profile.

Availability: First quarter of 2009.

Warrantee: Charter Arms has an industry exclusive lifetime warranty on its revolvers.

MSRP Prices: 9mm $399.00, .40 $449.00, .45ACP $449.00

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