GLOCK Statue of Liberty Gun

Glock Pistols

SMYRNA, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- GLOCK, Inc. has announced its highest bidder for the “GLOCK Statue of Liberty Gun,” the one-of-a-kind, hand-engraved GLOCK 22, which served as the official Handgun for the 2012 SHOT Show Auction.

The gun sold to Alexander Smith for $15,025, which will benefit programs to further America’s hunting and shooting sports heritage.

The exclusive GLOCK features an intricate, hand-engraved tribute to the United States and the Statue of Liberty. This theme was selected to recognize GLOCK’s 25th Anniversary in the United States, which coincides with the 125th Anniversary of the Statue of Liberty.

“In celebration of GLOCK’s 25 years in the United States, Mr. GLOCK wanted to recognize the customers who have helped the company achieve such a milestone,” stated GLOCK Vice President Gary Fletcher. “This one-of-a-kind piece demonstrates GLOCK’s dedication to its advocates.”

In addition to ownership of the exclusive GLOCK pistol, Alexander Smith, winner of the 2012 SHOT Show handgun, will also receive a signed drawing of the original GLOCK pistol.

The GLOCK was up for auction from Dec. 14-Jan.20 on GunBroker.com, the world’s largest internet auction site for sporting firearms and related equipment, official auction site of the National Sport Shooting Foundation (NSSF) and promotional partner of the Hunting Heritage Trust.

This year, 50,382 GunBroker users viewed the 2012 Shot Show Handgun on the popular internet auction site. As in recent years, bidding for the SHOT Show auction items took place exclusively on GunBroker.com.

About GLOCK, Inc.
GLOCK, Inc. is a leading global manufacturer of pistols and accessories. GLOCK’s superior engineering has produced a pistol with only 34 parts and a rugged polymer-frame, providing industry-leading reliability shot after shot. GLOCK is renowned for its pistols which are safe, featuring three safeties; simple, offering a low number of components to provide reliability; and fast, with no encumbering parts to slow the speed to fire. This combination makes GLOCK pistols the first choice among consumers and law enforcement, with 65% of agencies nationwide choosing to carry GLOCK. Austrian-engineered, the company has manufacturing facilities in the United States and Austria. Based in Smyrna, Ga., GLOCK, Inc. is an advocate for our nation’s law enforcement and military personnel, as well as all citizens’ Second Amendment right to bear arms. For more information, please visit www.teamglock.com.

GLOCK Statue of Liberty Gun

Glock Pistols

SMYRNA, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- GLOCK, Inc. has announced that they have been selected as the official Handgun for the 2012 SHOT Show Auction.

A one-of-a-kind, hand-engraved GLOCK 22 will be available to GLOCK collectors and firearm enthusiasts worldwide during the auction, scheduled to take place starting at 10:00PM on December 14th – January 20th, 2012.

The exclusive GLOCK, known within the company as the “GLOCK Statue of Liberty Gun,” features an intricate, hand-engraved tribute to the United States and the Statue of Liberty. This theme was selected to recognize GLOCK’s 25th Anniversary in the United States, which coincides with the 125th Anniversary of the Statue of Liberty.

“Often times, the misconception is that the limited edition pistols from GLOCK, such as the ‘Statue of Liberty Gun’ are hidden away in company vaults,” stated GLOCK Vice President, Gary Fletcher.

“With the company celebrating 25 years in the United States, Mr. Glock wanted to give those who helped the company achieve that milestone of success an opportunity to own this one-of-a-kind piece.”

In addition to ownership of the exclusive GLOCK pistol, the highest bidder for the 2012 SHOT Show handgun will also receive a hunting trip with GLOCK celebrity spokesperson, R. Lee “The Gunny” Ermey, and a framed drawing of the original GLOCK 17, signed by GLOCK President Gaston Glock.

The GLOCK will be released for auction on GunBroker.com, the world’s largest internet auction site for sporting firearms and related equipment, official auction site of the National Sport Shooting Foundation (NSSF) and promotional partner of the Hunting Heritage Trust. Last year, more than 315,000 GunBroker users viewed the 2011 Shot Show Handgun on the popular internet auction site. As in recent years, bidding for the SHOT Show auction items will take place exclusively on GunBroker.com.

All proceeds from the auction of the “GLOCK Statue of Liberty Gun” will benefit programs to further America’s hunting and shooting sports heritage.

About GLOCK, Inc.
GLOCK, Inc. is a leading global manufacturer of pistols and accessories. GLOCK’s superior engineering has produced a pistol with only 34 parts and a rugged polymer-frame, providing industry-leading reliability shot after shot. GLOCK is renowned for its pistols which are safe, featuring three safeties; simple, offering a low number of components to provide reliability; and fast, with no encumbering parts to slow the speed to fire. This combination makes GLOCK pistols the first choice among consumers and law enforcement, with 65% of agencies nationwide choosing to carry GLOCK. Austrian-engineered, the company has manufacturing facilities in the United States and Austria. Based in Smyrna, Ga., GLOCK, Inc. is an advocate for our nation’s law enforcement and military personnel, as well as all citizens’ Second Amendment right to bear arms. For more information, please visit www.teamglock.com.

The Finest B Company Marked U.S. Walker Model 1847 Colt Revolver known to exist sold for $345,000.

Rock Island Auction Company

Rock Island, IL --(Ammoland.com)- Rock Island Auction Company continues their dominance as the worlds leading auction house for firearms, edged weapons and military artifacts for the eighth year running.

Fresh off the heals of the television debut of Discovery Channel’s Ready Aim Sold, Rock Island Auction Company’s December Premiere Firearms Auction realized a stunning $10 Million dollars in sales.

The seven digit figure is more impressive considering the pre-auction estimate was $8.2 Million! The success of the December sale puts Rock Island Auction at 31 million dollars in sales for 2011 and almost tied the previous record which they also hold from 2010 which stands at 32 million. Over the course of three days hundreds of bidders from coast to coast made their way to Rock Island, IL to preview and bid. Phone bidders called in from across the globe, and over 13,000 bids were placed before the first drop of the hammer.

Colts took four of the top five lots of the auction commanding nearly one million dollars. The top lots include: The finest ‘B’ Company marked U.S. Walker Model 1847 Colt Revolver known ($345,000). The most anticipated firearm of the sale was the Gold Inlaid Factory Presentation, to standing President Theodore Roosevelt’s Colt 1902 ideal stocked semi-automatic pistol ($207,000), factory engraved documented Colt 1871-72 Open Top Revolver from the 1876 Centennial celebration in New York City ($184,000), and an Ainsworth Inspected, Company K, 4th Cavalry Marked, Colt Single Action Cavalry Revolver ($115,000).

Winchester Firearms were also in high demand. A John Ulrich engraved gold plated Winchester Model 1873 short rifle brought an impressive $74,750. Another John Ulrich signed masterpiece from the Winchester display at the Paris Exposition of 1889, a gold and nickel plated, factory engraved Winchester Model 1873 Carbine sold for $57,500. Lever action rifles and pistols which predate Winchester also had a strong showing. Of the 10 Henry Rifles in the sale, a martially inspected first contract rifle took top honors at $46,000. And a Large Frame Smith & Wesson Lever Action Magazine pistol realized $48,000!

The December auction marked the final chance to own a piece from renowned Putnam Green Collection of rare, high condition, and historical U.S. and German Military items. An extraordinarily rare Walther, prototype “Armee-Pistole” with original walnut shoulder stock/holster sold for $74,750. A 1902 DWM Luger Carbine Rig with matching shoulder stock, ammunition, and “VL&A” Chicago marked leather case went well above its pre-auction estimate selling for $51,750.

U.S. Military arms continue to surge in value. The finest conditioned U.S. Model 1903 Springfield 1913 Warner & Swasey sniper rifle saw some of the most heated bidding of the entire auction and set a new World Record at $46,000! A martially inspected Colt Super 38 pistol reached a record price of $31,625. Civil War arms from both the North and South made up a large section of the sale. A rare Greene breech loading carbine realized $25,875 and an original advertising flyer for a Henry Rifle brought $6,325 well over the pre-auction estimate of $800-1,000.

Other notable sales from the auction include a London agency pair of Theur derringers with ivory grips for $69,000, a Colt 1921/28 Thompson submachine gun for $48,875, and a historic Sharps John Brown model 1853 carbine for $34,500.

For more information on selling at auction or consigning with Rock Island Auction Company call 800-238-8022 or visit rockislandauction.com.

Factory Presentation, to a Standing President, Theodore Roosevelt's Colt Model 1902 Ideal Stocked Semi-Automatic Pistol Sold at $207,000

About:
Rock Island Auction Company has been solely owned and operated by Patrick Hogan. This company was conceived on the idea that both the sellers and buyers should be completely informed and provided a professional venue for a true auction. After working with two other auction companies, Mr. Hogan began Rock Island Auction in 1993. Rock Island Auction Company has grown to be one of the top firearms auction houses in the nation. Under Mr. Hogan’s guidance the company has experienced growth each and every year; and he is the first to say it is his staff’s hard work and determination that have yielded such results. Visit: www.rockislandauction.com

GunBroker

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo --(Ammoland.com)- GunBroker.com, the world’s largest Internet auction site for firearms and accessories, has been named the Official Internet Auction Site of USA Shooting and the USA Shooting Foundation in a partnership that will feature a special edition of firearms that will be available exclusively on the popular auction site.

“USA Shooting has benefited from several special auctions on GunBroker.com in recent years, and we are truly excited about the potential to expand our relationship as we prepare for the 2012 Olympics in London,” announced Buddy DuVall, executive director of the USA Shooting Foundation.

“GunBroker.com has become an increasingly powerful marketing force in the shooting sports community and USA Shooting is excited about the potential of channeling GunBroker.com’s energy and creativity in support of our Olympic shooters.”

“GunBroker.com has been privileged to partner with USA Shooting on several projects in the past, and we very much look forward to this new and expanded relationship,” commented Steve Urvan, GunBroker.com founder and CEO. “We know that USA Shooting has exciting fundraising and promotional plans in place as the team prepares for the 2012 Olympics in London, and we are excited to be part of those plans.”

Among the new plans for the GunBroker.com-USA Shooting partnerships is a special “Supporting Our Olympic Shooters in 2012” auction site on GunBroker.com where all the listed firearms will benefit USA Shooting. Plans call for a series of specially engraved guns produced in partnership with major firearms manufacturers. In addition, one special edition run of 100 guns will be produced and made available exclusively on GunBroker.com.

GunBroker.com also was recently named as the official Internet auction site of the National Shooting Sports Foundation and has been the official Internet auction site of the Hunting Heritage Trust since 2008.

USA Shooting

USA Shooting is a 501c3 non-profit corporation chartered by the United States Olympic Committee as the National Governing Body for the sport of shooting in April 1995. USA Shooting’s mission is to prepare American athletes to win Olympic medals, promote the shooting sports throughout the U.S. and govern the conduct of international shooting in the country. For information on USA Shooting, visit www.usashooting.org or twitter.com/US Shooting.

About GunBroker.com
GunBroker.com is the world’s largest online auction site for firearms and hunting/shooting accessories. Launched in 1999, GunBroker.com is a secure and safe way to buy and sell firearms and hunting/shooting accessories that promotes responsible gun ownership. Aside from merchandise bearing its logo, GunBroker.com does not sell the items listed on its website, rather, third-party sellers list items on the site and Federal and state laws govern the sale of these firearms and other restricted items. Ownership policies and regulations are followed using licensed firearms dealers as transfer agents. GunBroker.com frequently hosts charity auctions that benefit the firearms industry and other causes, waiving all fees. Visit www.GunBroker.com.

Starr Arms Model 1858 Civilian Double Action Percussion Navy Revolver

Rock Island Auction Company

Moline, IL --(Ammoland.com)- If you are a collector of anything Civil War then Rock Island Auction Company’s December 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Premiere firearms auction is a must participate.

This December’s sale will feature the most comprehensive antique American arms to be offered at auction this year and will be spearheaded by the following incredible Civil War collection.

This grouping comes from 40+ years of collecting. It has been a true pleasure working and learning from this consignor/collector whose knowledge and passion literally jump off the pages of our auction catalog. It is not only the finest collection of Civil War carbines but also the most complete with the rarest and most desirable configurations, variations as well as incredible high condition.

When we had the privilege of stepping into his “gun room”, and I will use that term loosely because of the tremendous memorabilia and accessories that were also present (more on that later), we were awe-struck by the history the room held. It would be an understatement so say that this collector had an “eye”; as he told us “I bought what I loved, and I bought the best that I could find”.

Rock Island Auction Company is not only extremely proud to offer this collection to the world, but is also grateful for the opportunity to sell the best! To give you a small idea of the scope of this incredible collection: 70 Civil War carbines including the finest known Sharps Model 1855 British Contract Carbine, an exceptional and rare Greene Breech Loading Carbine, a historical Sharps John Brown Model 1853 Percussion Carbine, the complete evolution of the Hall carbine as well as the complete evolution of the Jenks Mule Ear carbine.

There are also three Martially Marked Henry Rifles, four Martially Marked Colt 1860 Army Revolvers, and OVER 10 Volcanic arms including two carbines! Simply amazing.

Now onto the memorabilia…the Civil War memorabilia speaks volumes to a wide scope of rare and desirable items that this collector was able to amass. It includes three variations of the rare and highly desirable Blakeslee Patent Spencer Carbine Cartridge Boxes including the 13 tube “infantry” model. The finest original box of New Haven Arms Co. Henry Cartridges we have ever offered along with 30 plus boxes of rare and desirable antique ammunition. And finally the true Civil War collector will not be let down with the offering of these historic and important signatures from the following Civil War Generals: Robert E. Lee, Ulysses S. Grant, George Meade, J.E.B. Stuart, George Armstrong Custer, and George Pickett.

It is these types of collections that are genuinely inspiring and make work not feel like work at all. It is an honor and a pleasure when a collector entrusts their collection to you and lets you into their home and gun room to share their passion of collecting with you. The discussions of history and the stories of their pursuit in acquiring over the years are invigorating.

If you are lucky a relationship is established based on a common theme of appreciation, understanding and trust. One that you hope carries far beyond the auction process.

Click here to view this great collection

About:
Rock Island Auction Company has been solely owned and operated by Patrick Hogan. This company was conceived on the idea that both the sellers and buyers should be completely informed and provided a professional venue for a true auction. After working with two other auction companies, Mr. Hogan began Rock Island Auction in 1993. Rock Island Auction Company has grown to be one of the top firearms auction houses in the nation. Under Mr. Hogan’s guidance the company has experienced growth each and every year; and he is the first to say it is his staff’s hard work and determination that have yielded such results. Visit: www.rockislandauction.com

Auction Arms

Auction Arms

Carson City NV --(Ammoland.com)- Auction Arms is constantly trying to improve to better serve our customers. As technology and the marketplace evolves, we want to evolve with it.

One of the changes we have made in order to keep up with growing trends is updating our domain name to www.gunauction.com.

We of course still own the domain of auctionarms.com, which will redirect to the new domain whenever typed into the url, but we hope that the new name will draw in more customers.

Manny DelaCruz, Auction Arms’ CEO and founder says: “The new domain name is one that is more relevant to what we do online, and contains words that are more often searched for at the most popular search engines.

This will give us a competitive advantage in our field, and it’s just easier to remember for our new users.”

We will continue to grow and improve our website to better serve our customers. We hope that this and future improvements will be well received in the marketplace and will help us further grow our company within the gun community.

Auction Arms is the original online auction website devoted to guns and the outdoors.

Founded by Manny DelaCruz, a former active duty marine with mad computer skills, Auction Arms is a great place to find guns of any kind, and the accessories that go with them. Auction Arms is also the Official Auction Website of the NRA.

Visit: http://www.gunauction.com/

Rock Island Auction Company

Moline, IL --(Ammoland.com)- This incredible collection has been added to an already impressive selection of over 600 Colts in this auction.

The highlights of Mr. Terry’s collection are the only three known remaining documented factory engraved Colt Model 1871-72 Open Top revolvers.

These revolvers are part of a group of eight Model 1871-72 Open Top revolvers shipped to J.P. Moores and Sons on July 4, 1876 manufactured by Colt for display at the 1876 Independence Day celebration in New York City.

Also featured from his collection are fine examples of Model 1860 Percussion revolvers, a Richards Conversion model 1860, and much more.

Historic, Rare and High Condition Colts all offered this December. This is an auction for the true Colt collector.

A Truly Stunning Auction Filled with Many Desirable Antiques!
DECEMBER 2, 3 & 4
Rock Island Auction Company Premiere Firearms Auction

Once In A Lifetime Chance To Own These Rare Firearms

Also Featured In This Auction

• The Complete Evolution of Winchester from
  Volcanics to Model 70′s
• Collection of over 25 Maynard Single Shot Rifles
• Outstanding Civil War Arms featuring 80+ Carbines
  including Confederate Arms
• Excellent Colts including Percussions, Single Actions, Early Autos, 1911′s and Longarms and Rare Colt Derringers
• The Second Installment of Putnam Green Collection: Part II
• Outstanding U.S. and German Military Arms spanning
  two World Wars
• Collection of new in the box Merkel Shotguns and Steyr Rifles
• Over 100 Browning Shotguns and Rifles
• Part 2 of the finest M1 Carbine Collection, featuring every serial number block for each Contractor of M1 Carbines during WWII
• High Grade Double Barrel Shotguns
• Excellent Smith & Wesson Collection
• Quality Lugers
• AND MUCH MORE

About:
Rock Island Auction Company has been solely owned and operated by Patrick Hogan. This company was conceived on the idea that both the sellers and buyers should be completely informed and provided a professional venue for a true auction. After working with two other auction companies, Mr. Hogan began Rock Island Auction in 1993. Rock Island Auction Company has grown to be one of the top firearms auction houses in the nation. Under Mr. Hogan’s guidance the company has experienced growth each and every year; and he is the first to say it is his staff’s hard work and determination that have yielded such results. Visit: www.rockislandauction.com

Rock Island Auction Company

Moline, IL --(Ammoland.com)- Every story needs a beginning, an established point in time at which something starts. It is a beginning that allows a story to move forward and evolve.

The beginning of the Winchester Repeating Arms Company started with inventor Walter Hunt’s 1848 “Volition Repeating Rifle” and its caseless “Rocket Ball” ammunition.

Hunt was a prolific inventor who invented the safety pin, lockstitch needle and fountain pen. But for the Winchester story to begin we need to focus our attention on U.S. Patent 6663 which was granted to Hunt in 1849.

The patent is for Hunt’s .54 caliber tubular magazine rifle, the “Volition Repeater”. The rifle used a coil spring to operate the firing pin and a trigger forced a cartridge into the barrel chamber by moving the breech bolt rearward. Essentially, the trigger design was the ancestor of the lever action of later arms. The rifle also used Hunt’s own patented loaded bullet which he called “Rocket Balls”. This type of ammunition was loaded with powder and to prevent the powder from escaping, the bullet was capped with a cork wad covered in paper which had a flash hole in the center. Only one Hunt rifle is known to have been produced and that rifle now resides in the Cody Firearms Museum.

Showcasing Winchester Beginnings at Rock Island Auction Company

In December 1849, Lewis Jennings received U.S. Patent 6973 for his improvement of the Hunt rifle design. Jennings’ improved version of Hunt’s rifle was manufactured in small numbers by Robbins & Lawrence of Windsor, Vermont, and was a commercial failure. Smith & Wesson of the Horace Smith and Daniel Wesson partnership of Norwich, Connecticut, acquired Jennings’ improved version of the original “Volition Repeater”. Financially aided by New York financier Courtlandt C. Palmer who originally purchased the manufacturing rights of the failed Jennings rifle, Smith & Wesson began to produce their version of the improved repeater in June of 1854. In July 1855, Smith & Wesson and Palmer formed the Volcanic Repeating Arms Company in order to manufacture a line of lever action carbines and pistols. Volcanic continued to improve the Rocket Ball type ammunition and the lever action guns that fired it.

As an investor in Volcanic, Oliver F. Winchester was elected a director of the company in 1855 and in the coming years played a pivotal role the evolution of the lever action firearm. In 1856 Volcanic became insolvent with the bankrupt firm’s assets being purchased by Oliver Winchester who soon reorganized it as the New Haven Arms Company. Under Winchester’s leadership, New Haven took a strong interest in developing new types of cartridges for leaver action firearm. As an employee of New Haven, Benjamin Henry perfected the self-contained metallic rimfire cartridge.

The .44 Henry, as it was known, was much larger and more powerful cartridge to be used in lever action arms. Under Henry’s supervision, a new rifle loosely designed on the Volcanic repeaters was manufactured to accept the new .44 Henry cartridge. The result was the Henry Rifle of 1860 and the success of the rifle established New Haven in the lever action repeater firearms market. In May 1866, the New Haven Arms Company was renamed Winchester Repeating rifle Company. Continuing on its success with the Henry Rifle, Winchester introduced the Model 1866, Model 1873, and Model 1876 Lever Action Rifles. Winchester produced some of the earliest repeating rifles that were popular among Western settlers, forever solidifying the Winchester name to “The Gun that Won the West”. (For more Winchester history see, for example, George Madis’ The Winchester Book.)

This December auction has some of the earliest examples of firearms associated with Winchester heritage. There are several Volcanic Pistols. Serial number 2123 is a deluxe factory engraved New Haven Arms Volcanic No. 2 Navy Pistol fitted with relief carved ivory grips. The two piece ivory grips feature a relief carved Mexican Eagle and Serpent motif inside an oval and the brass receiver has a deluxe scroll engraving with the tight and detailed scrollwork extending the back strap and butt and a small flourish of scrollwork on the underside of the receiver below the cartridge elevator.

The sideplates having oval inscription panels featuring relief engraved borders. If you are looking for a standard New Haven Volcanic No. 2 Navy Pistol, check out serial numbers 2471 and 2026. These are two of the 700 to 1000 No. 2 Navy Pistols that are believed to have been produced by New Haven. Serial number 1470 is a Navy Pistol manufactured by Volcanic Repeating Arms Company, making it one of approximately 1500 Navy Pistol manufactured with an 8” barrel before the company was reorganized as the New Haven Arms Company. Interested in a New Haven Volcanic No. 1 Pistols? This December auction has two: serial number 484 and serial number 1420. Note that serial number 1420 has a 3 ½” barrel and serial number 484 has a 6” barrel. Total production of the No. 1 Pistol with a 3 ½” barrel is estimated at 850 and total production of the No. 1 pistol with a 6” barrel is estimated ate 225.

There are also Volcanic Carbines in the December sale. Serial number 2715 is a factory engraved example featuring large open type scrollwork on the receiver, upper receiver tang and buttplate heel. The engraving is very similar to the engraving on the Volcanic pistol (serial number 1159) pictured on page 9 of R.L. Wilson’s Winchester Engraving. Serial numbers 158 and 10 are examples of the standard New Haven produced Volcanic Carbine. And like the pistols, the carbines are also a scarce historical firearm with approximately 1000 carbines being produced from 1857 to 1860.There are also several examples of Henry Rifles. Serial number 5011 is a factory engraved example with an engraving similar to that pictured in R.L. Wilson’s Winchester Engraving, page 23. The front receiver panels feature large floral designs in double bordered panels with scalloped edges. A hunting dog on point surrounded by open scrollwork is engraved on the left side plate. Scrollwork flourishes are present on the top and sides of the receiver and upper tang. The buttplate heel has a scroll engraving with a star burst on the butt trap. For a standard example of a Henry Rifle see serial numbers 9461 and 2902. Interested in a U.S. contract Hew Haven Arms Henry Rifle? See serial numbers 3526 and 3919.

These two Henry Rifles were part of an 800 rifle order purchased by the Ordnance Department to arm the 1st District of Columbia Cavalry Regiment. The rifles were stamped with the C.G.C. initials of Ordnance Sub-Inspector Charles G. Chapman on the right side of the barrel and script C.G.C. initials on the stock wrist. During the Civil War, the 1st D.C. Cavalry had the distinction of being the only Federal unit to be completely equipped with Henry Rifles.

This December Rock Island Auction Company is fortunate to be offering our clients several different examples of Volcanic pistols and carbines and Henry Rifles.

If you are a Winchester collector this is not the auction to miss. In the next few months you will want to pay close attention as this December auction will certainly be offering more examples of early Winchester heritage.

About:
Rock Island Auction Company has been solely owned and operated by Patrick Hogan. This company was conceived on the idea that both the sellers and buyers should be completely informed and provided a professional venue for a true auction. After working with two other auction companies, Mr. Hogan began Rock Island Auction in 1993. Rock Island Auction Company has grown to be one of the top firearms auction houses in the nation. Under Mr. Hogan’s guidance the company has experienced growth each and every year; and he is the first to say it is his staff’s hard work and determination that have yielded such results. Visit: www.rockislandauction.com

Sicklebill Curlew: The top lot of the sale was this spectacular sicklebill curlew from Duxbury, Mass.($111,550)

Decoys Unlimited

HYANNIS, Mass. --(Ammoland.com)- A spectacular and rare sicklebill curlew decoy made in Duxbury, Mass., by a craftsman whose identity is a matter of debate among veteran collectors, soared to $111,550 at an auction held July 24-25 by Decoys Unlimited, Inc., based in Barnstable, Mass. The sale was conducted at the Cape Codder Resort & Hotel in Hyannis, Mass., on Cape Cod.

The sicklebill curlew was described by Dr. George Ross Starr, in his book Decoys of the Atlantic Flyway, as “the finest example of a sicklebill decoy in my collection” and “the kind of a decoy a collector dreams about.” He called it “a beautifully proportioned piece of work.” It’s rare in part because sicklebill curlews are scarce in New England and therefore so are their decoys.

It was by far the top lot in an auction that saw just under 1,000 decoys change hands. About 400 people attended in person (121 were registered bidders), plus there were 57 absentee bidders and 90 phone bidders (who together bid on 639 lots). Internet bidding (via Artfact.com) had 153 registered bidders. All of these numbers were new records for Decoys Unlimited, Inc.

“The sale went well above our expectations despite a global economy that is still a bit anemic,” said Ted Harmon of Decoys Unlimited, Inc. “But the market for quality decoys is strong and I see it remaining that way for some time. The less expensive decoys were a bit off, but not as far off as they were last year.” The auction, he added, grossed more than $1.2 million.

Headlining the sale was the private collection of the late Joseph Bard “Joe” French, plus other quality consignments from across North America. Mr. French (1919-2009) was a pioneer in the hobby who collected his first decoy in 1954 and took delivery of his last decoy just two days before his passing. He also wrote extensively on the subject and produced decoy videos.

Following are additional highlights from the sale. All prices quoted include a 15 percent buyer’s premium.

The auction’s second top lot, at $60,375, was an outstanding hissing goose made circa early 1900s by George Boyd, the master decoy maker from Seabrook, N.H. The canvas over frame Canada goose boasted excellent, finely crackled original paint throughout plus a strong, nearly perfect wing, tail and cheek outline, and great feather detailing on the sides and rear neck.

Two lots posted identical sale prices of $37,375. One was an exceptionally rare pair of circa early 1900s unrigged and unused mergansers, acquired as a gift from Irving Wallace from Small Point, Maine. A letter of provenance came with the birds. The other was a pair of racy swimming red-breasted mergansers (circa 1918-1922) by A.E. Crowell of East Harwich, Mass.

A one-of-a-kind American merganser hen made in the late 1800s by the Stevens Factory of Weedsport, N.Y. (with the maker probably George Stevens, owing to the concave carving on the neck seat) went to a determined bidder for $29,900; and a pair of redheads crafted circa 1920s by the Ward Brothers of Crisfield, Md., with original paint on body and bill, hit $24,180.

Artwork was also featured in the auction. A framed oil on board of two mermaids and King Neptune by the noted Cape Cod artist Ralph Cahoon (1910-1982), a relative of C.D. Cahoon, who is said to have painted decoys for Elmer Crowell when he was behind on orders, brought $24,150. A second Ralph Cahoon work, depicting mermaids at auction, made $23,000.

A rare and early example of a sanderling (or “wind bird”), executed circa 1860-1890 and attributed to a member of the Chipman family of Sandwich (on Cape Cod), commanded $23,000; while a circa 1900 greater yellowlegs by A.E. Crowell featuring fine early period brushed soft original paint with very light wear and only a few very small scuffs knocked down at $18,400.

A pair of outstanding lots each fetched $17,200. The first was a circa-1909 eider drake by Augustus Aaron “Gus” Wilson, Maine’s most celebrated decoy maker. Wilson carved animated decoys of all types, including this early sculpture, in a career that spanned about five decades. The second was an early mallard drake by A.E. Crowell (circa 1915-1918) with original paint.

Another early example by A.E. Crowell – this one a circa-1915 golden plover with the original paint and in all-original condition with no repairs — crossed the block at $16,100; and a pair of Evans Factory (active 1921-1937) blue-winged teal (circa early 1900s), with early paint and the rare double blue speculum, plus the ‘Evans Decoy’ stamp on the bottom, rose to $14,950.

Rounding out the day’s top lots, a rare and oversize red-breasted merganser drake by Doug Jester of Chincoteaque, Va., having the original paint with some crazing, breezed to $13,800; and an early gunning model of an immature (or winter plumage) black-bellied plover by A.E. Crowell (circa 1905-1910), with extremely fine original paint, also gaveled for $13,800.

Ted Harmon has been in the decoy collecting business since 1966 and has been in the same Barnstable, Mass., location since 1970. He and his wife Judy started the auction aspect of the business in 1986. Today, Decoys Unlimited, Inc., is a full-service company for collectors of American bird decoys, folk art and related items. The firm also offers personalized collection advice, auction and private purchase representation, brokering for sales and appraisal services.

Decoys Unlimited, Inc., is always accepting quality consignments for future sales. To consign a single item or an entire collection, you may call them at (508) 362-2766 or (508) 737-2193; or, you can e-mail them at theodores.harmon@comcast.net. The firm’s next big auction will be a mixed antiques and decoys sale slated for late October or early November on Cape Cod.

Boyd Goose Decoy: Outstanding early 1900s hissing goose made by George Boyd of Seabrook, N.H. ($60,375)

Crowell yellowlegs Decoy: Greater yellowlegs by A.E. Crowell featuring soft early period brushed original paint ($18,400)

Crowell Mergasers Decoys: Pair of circa 1918-1922 racy swimming red-breasted mergansers by A. E. Crowell ($37,375)

Evans Teal Decoys: Pair of Evans Factory Decoys (active 1921-1937) blue-winged teal, created circa early 1900s ($14,950)

To learn more about Decoys Unlimited, Inc., and for more information on the fall auction as times and dates are determined, please log on to www.decoysunlimitedinc.net.

National Firearms Museum to display 1911 Centennial Collection at Camp Perry

National Rifle Association

FAIRFAX, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- In celebration of 100 years of the Model 1911, the National Firearms Museum will have a special display at the National Rifle & Pistol Matches at Camp Perry, Ohio from July 14-17.

The commemorative exhibit, located in Building 950, will feature pistols that illustrate the path to the very first Model 1911’s and showcase the evolution of the classic design which would change the history of American military handguns.

“The Colt Model 1911 is an important part of American military history and the history of the National Matches at Camp Perry. Each year, more than 2,000 NRA and Civilian Marksmanship Program competitors bring their Model 1911’s to shoot the NRA National Outdoor Conventional Pistol Championships and the CMP Trophy Pistol Matches,” said Mike Krei, Director of NRA’s Competitive Shooting Division.

The Model 1911, commonly referred to as the M1911, was created out of necessity following the carnage of the Philippine-American War. The American military recognized the need to upgrade from the standard military issue revolver to a more powerful service sidearm that could deliver the necessary stopping power to prevent lethal encounters at close range.

Five of the pistols in the display were part of the U.S. Service Pistol Trials that paved the way for the military’s adoption of the M1911. The first is a Luger 1901, one of one thousand 7.65 mm purchased for initial testing by the U.S. Cavalry in 1901. There will also be three 1907 models chambered in .45 caliber in the display, including the Grant-Hammond 1907 Trials Pistol bearing serial number one, a Colt Model 1907 Trials Pistol, and the prototype Savage Model 1907, also serial number one. The final pistol, critical to the early stages of the M1911, is the Early Colt M1911 with serial number 4. This pistol was part of the first group of Colt-manufactured M1911’s shipped in January 1912.

After the adoption of the M1911 by the U.S. military, Colt began initial production along with Springfield Armory, Remington, and Canada’s North American Arms as America entered World War I. The demand for the powerful and reliable pistol grew when World War II loomed and an updated pistol, the M1911A1, was developed. During the first and second World Wars, over 2.5 million M1911’s and M1911A1’s were ordered by the United States and continued in service through the Vietnam War.

Three historical M1911’s used in war will be featured in the display including WWII Marine Aviator, Medal of Honor recipient and former NRA President Joe Foss’ Colt M1911, issued to him in 1943 at Guadalcanal. The next is a Colt M1911 ordered by Admiral Willis August Lee, a Navy Cross recipient and five-time gold medalist shooter at the 1920 Olympic Games. The final of these historic pistols on display is a Colt M1911recovered from a fallen American serviceman who escaped the Japanese bombardment of Corregidor with 17 others in a small boat that traveled 29 days and over 2,000 miles to Australia.

In addition to these eight firearms, two beautifully engraved M1911’s from the Robert E. Petersen Gallery at the National Firearms Museum will be on display.

To receive up to the minute reports, photos, and results during the Championships, check www.nrablog.com. To learn more about the National Firearms Museum, visit www.nramuseum.com or call 703-267-1600. For more on the National Rifle & Pistol Championships at Camp Perry, or other competitive shooting events or programs, visit www.nrahq.org/compete or call 1-877-672-6282.

Howard Hughes Hell’s Angels Luger Pistol to be Auctioned

FirearmsTruth.com

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- A rare German Luger pistol once owned by aviation pioneer Howard Hughes could reach new heights when it goes up for auction in Solana Beach, Calif. on September 1, 2011 from Craig Gottlieb Militaria Auctions.

The iconic handgun was used in the 1930 epic World War I film Hell’s Angels, which Hughes directed.

The gun was used in the final scene of the Hollywood blockbuster that introduced actress Jean Harlow to the silver screen. It was one of the most expensive “talkies” ever produced. It was also notable for introducing the phrase “excuse me while I put on something more comfortable” into the American lexicon.

The history of the gun is also unique. It was once owned by Hell’s Angels screenwriter Joseph March, who received the Luger from Hughes as a gift. The written provenance that comes with the Luger is thus excellent. Included with this famous gun is a letter from the screenwriter’s family, including the family member who sold it to a collector in 1992. But, the most compelling provenance is the movie itself.

“When you play back the scene frame-by-frame, you can easily make out the unique features of this rare model Luger,” says Gottlieb, noting the slender barrel, unique grip safety and the shape of the other features, which are unique to this rare pistol. “If Hughes had used a regular Luger, we would never know if this was really the same gun.”

The letter that accompanies the Luger states that Hughes gave it to March in the 1930s “as a token of appreciation following the film.”

Gottlieb places a conservative estimate of $50,000 on the gun, and notes that a pistol owned by gangster Al Capone recently sold for almost $110,000 at auction in London. He is no stranger to exotic collectibles, and he recently obtained the desk set that was used by Adolf Hitler to sign the Munich Agreement in 1938, and this set will also be up for auction in September.

Now we’ll see if the sky is the limit for the Luger.

Peter Suciu is executive editor of FirearmsTruth.com, a website that tracks and monitors media bias against guns and our Second Amendment rights. Visit: FirearmsTruth.com

Also be sure and read Peter’s newest book “America’s Road to Fascism: From the Progressives to the Era of Hope and Change“

Skyhorse Publishing

New York, NY -–(Ammoland.com)- How does a gun work? Which gun is right for me? How can I make certain my gun is stored safely?

Guns 101 will answer all your questions! Longtime gun instructor David Steier introduces readers to the basics of shotguns, rifles, carbines, and handguns and their subgroups, covering everything from gun safety to choosing the best gun classes for your needs.

Steier is committed to sharing the gun knowledge he has been collecting over a lifetime of competitive shooting, and his enthusiasm shines through.

If you want to know how to act in a gun shop, what to do if something breaks, or the difference between a single-action and double-action revolver, Steier explains it. Here’s some of what you’ll find inside:

• The ten commandments of gun safety
• Suitable guns for personal defense, for fun, hunting, or collecting
• Terms and clear diagrams for all gun mechanisms
• How to secure and safely store your gun
• How to properly and safely clean your gun
• How to properly and safely carry your gun
• Rules and regulations all gun owners need to know
• The importance of gun barrel measurement
• Bullet types
• How to find a reliable gunsmith if your gun needs to be repaired
• And much, much more

GUNS 101 - A Beginner’s Guide to Buying and Owning Firearms

Complete with diagrams and photographs that make all the technical details clear, Guns 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Buying and Owning Firearms is the perfect springboard for anyone who wants to know how to choose and take care of his or her first gun—no previous experience required!

About the Author
David Steier is a firearms instructor and enthusiast. He works at a gun store and gun range in Oakwood, Georgia, and is an active member of the Cherokee Gun club, the National Rifle Association, and the Single Action Shooting Society. He Lives in Gainesville, Georgia.

Guns 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Buying and Owning Firearms

By David Steier

Skyhorse Publishing Paperback

On Sale: June 2011

ISBN: 978-1-61608-287-1

Price: $14.95

About:
Founded in 2006, Skyhorse Publishing was at #2 on the 2010 Publisher’s Weekly list of the fastest-growing independent publishers in the United States. Skyhorse publishes books on many different subjects in areas including sports and outdoors, military history, how-to, self-help, true crime, antiques and collectibles, transportation and aviation, current events, and more. In July 2010, Skyhorse acquired the assets of Arcade Publishing, including some 500 titles—many from prominent authors, including Umberto Eco, Elie Wiesel, Ingmar Bergman, Octavio Paz, and others. Skyhorse’s founder is publishing industry veteran Tony Lyons, former CEO of The Lyons Press. Learn more at www.skyhorsepublishing.com.

Marquis Nazi Belt Buckle Pistol

My Gun Culture

USA --(Ammoland.com)- “A man may die, nations may rise and fall, but an idea lives on.” – John F. Kennedy

Fortunately for us, some ideas do not live on. For example, the Marquis Nazi Belt Buckle Pistol invented during World War I and (nearly) fielded ‘en masse’ during World War II.

Through an exhaustive research project, with some logistical assistance from our friend Wendy Cunningham of the NRA National Firearms Museum, the My Gun Culture staff has learned just how close we came to a very different course of history – and new world order.

German Troops Practicing Groovy Hip Aiming Techniques

The Marquis Belt Buckle pistol, also known informally as the Power Pelvis Gun, was conceived by Louis Marquis while interned in a POW camp during World War I. Frustrated by long chow and loo lines, Marquis was consumed by a desire to exert his authority over other POW’s without drawing the attention of guards – hence the idea for a concealed weapon not requiring the use of hands or traditional holsters. Named the Koppelschlosspistole, the design was patented before the outbreak of World War II. The patent was issued in late 1934 for a “trommelrevolver” to be mounted on a belt.  Both .22 (four barrel) and .32 (two barrel) versions were produced in very limited numbers.

The innovative weapon faced challenges from the start. In order to gain approval for broad scale deployment, Marquis had to prove that average soldiers could easily be trained to use the weapon effectively. As the pistol had no sights, and relied entirely on groovy pelvic gyration to aim, it was assumed that biological instincts would overcome any training obstacles. And of course, the natural male instinct to aim for the toilet.

Tests determined that groin area burns could be prevented with proper uniform

Not so, according to WWII historian Basil Exposition. “Training soldiers to charge, while aiming with their pelvises, proved more difficult than anticipated” commented Exposition. “Not only was it nearly impossible to run while aiming one’s midsection, it really looked quite effeminate. The enemy was not at all intimidated.”

While larger calibers were tested on the buckle gun, the .32 proved to be the most practical

Recent tests have determined that accuracy and effectiveness are increased if Elvis Presley songs are played at loud volume. Unfortunately for the Germans, Presley was not available to train soldiers in proper hip-aiming techniques.

However, military training teams did adjust screening criteria for prospective belt buckle assault troops, although too late to impact the war effort.

“The Nazis were quite disappointed with early field trials” explained Exposition. “Until they elected to actively recruit accomplished Salsa dancers that is. Their natural sway and hip motion really helped cut training time. However, there were few Salsa dancers in Nazi Germany at the time, and the program was not considered scalable.”

The NRA National Museum continues to search for specimens from other top-secret wartime weapons programs. Stories of experimental crotch rockets, hula hoop grenade launchers, monocle lasers, and garter garrotes persist; although surviving specimens have yet to be found.

About:
Tom McHale describes himself as a conservative gun-totin’ bible-clingin’ literary assault dude who enjoys finding humor in just about anything. His web blog My Gun Culture is an irreverent, twisted look at gun news bordering on the ridiculous. It covers shootin’ stuff, loud noises, defending your own, the occasional mall ninja, and about 200 years of the American way. “These are the (partially) true stories of… My Gun Culture” says Tom. Visit: www.mygunculture.com

This Exceptionally Rare Cased Gold Plated Factory Engraved Carved Ivory Stocked Krieghoff Presentation Luger Pistol Sold for $69,000

Rock Island Auction Company

Rock Island, IL--(Ammoland.com)- Historic Premiere Firearms Auction realizes $8 Million!

The inaugural auction of Rock Island Auction Company’s new facility brought firearms enthusiasts of every level, from veteran firearms collectors to first time bidders, all of which were impressed by the massive 86,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art facility.

Every chair (300 now compared to the previous 175) was full as auctioneers Pat Hogan, and his son Kevin took the podium Friday.

Of the endless topics of the pre-auction chatter, the most common subject was the preview hall’s abundant lighting and incredible size and scale. Collectors were able to preview items at their own pace with plenty of room to look down a bore or through a scope without bumping into a buddy. With all the additional interest from the new facility and the impressive collection of firearms up for auction, bidders drove up prices on the over 2,700 lots to a total of over $8 Million, bringing the total for the first two auctions of 2011 to over $10 Million!

Of the over 120 Colt Single Action Army revolvers offered, none were more impressive than an exceptional documented U.S. Lewis Draper inspected Colt Model 1873 single action cavalry revolver which sold above the estimate at $69,000. With more than 400 Colts in the sale many genres stood out with impressive sales such as a fully automatic Colt 1921/28 “Navy” overstamp submachine gun with FBI type carrying case, two drum and three stick magazines and a magnificent Colt 50-95 lightning slide action express rifle in exceptional condition with factory letter each selling for $31,625 respectively.

The most exciting lot was a 1938 Colt Model 1911A1 US Army contract pistol with accessories. The lot saw a flurry of bidders battling over this rare grouping which finally sold at $28,750, almost four times the estimated $5,000-$8,000. Colt long arms were also in high demand with a Colt 50-95 Lightning slide action express rifle with factory letter sold for $31,625.

This auction also featured the finest collection of Sharps to come to auction since the Frank and Karen Sellers collection. This outstanding collection was highlighted by a rare and historic, St. Louis inscribed, factory cased, Sharps Model 1851 sporting rifle which brought $40,250. A very rare documented Sharps Model 1874 No. 1 Creedmoor rifle went well above the estimated price of $8,500-$14,000 and sold for $28,750. A magnificent Sharps panel scene Gustave Young engraved Model 1853 sporting rifle left the building with a final sale price of $25,875, and a custom Sharps Model 1874 sporting rifle by Henry Slotterbek of Los Angeles, California realized $10,350.

Rock Island Auction brought to auction an outstanding collection of Lugers in rare and desirable configurations, as well as other German Military arms, Nazi hats, uniforms and militaria. The highlight of the over 250 lugers was an exceptionally rare documented cased gold plated factory engraved carved ivory stocked Krieghoff presentation Luger pistol which reached a final sale price of $69,000. Other top luger lots were a scarce Borchardt semi-automatic pistol with shoulder stock, holster and spare magazine selling for $25,875 and an exceptional DWM Model 1900 U.S. Army test luger pistol with original Rock Island Arsenal holster with a selling price of $23,000.

Other German Military arms attained high prices including a cased WWII German Luftwaffe issue Model 30 survival drilling with case and accessories which sold for $25,875, and an exceptional Mauser Tankgewehr-18 bolt action single shot anti-tank rifle with bipod which sold for an impressive $31,625.

The over 300 U.S. Military arms were highlighted with an impressive sale at $48,875 of a rare Pedersen device with metal case and U.S. Model 1903 Springfield Mark I rifle, a rare late WWII original inland “T3″ carbine with M2 infrared sniper scope with accessories sold for $23,000, and a rare U.S. trials Colt Model 1907 Army contract semi-automatic pistol with factory letter sold at $14,950.

Sportsmen found something in this auction from the highest quality and condition to the field grade. Of the over 500 sporting arms in this auction a custom engraved gold inlaid Winchester Model 21 two barrel set 28 and 410 gauge Grand American double barrel shotgun with case took top sales at $31,625. Side by side shotguns were in high demand with bidders driving impressive sales of a rare Parker Brothers Model VHE grade 410 double barrel shotgun with Abercrombie & Fitch marked leather case and a cased Balneari signed master engraved gold inlaid two barrel set Piotti Pachmayr extra double barrel shotgun selling at $25,875 and $19,550 respectfully. Sporting rifles did well across the board with impressive numbers which include an engraved gold inlaid pre-64 Winchester Model 70 Super Grade bolt action rifle with box in rare 7mm Mauser caliber leading the group with a final sale price of $23,000.

Condition, quality, and diversity made this a must participate for a U.S. early Martial collection including Martial Arms pre and post Civil War. A spectacular Civil War New Haven Arms Co. Henry lever action rifle sold for an impressive $51,750. A rare engraved Spencer sporting rifle brought an impressive $19,550 and a rare Confederate second model Griswold and Gunnison revolver sold after a flurry of bidding for $21,850. Intense bidding drove up prices for early Martial Arms including an exceptional and rare U.S. Springfield Model 1882 Chaffee-Reese rifle selling for $8,050.

Other notable sales from the auction included heightened interest in Kentucky rifles with the sales of a J.J. Henry marked Kentucky flintlock rifle selling for $9,775, a J. Roop flintlock Kentucky rifle and a L. Coon marked flintlock Kentucky rifle each selling for $5,462. An engraved Germanic wheel lock with elaborate relief carved stock sold after a heated battle for $16,100, and an exceptional early 19th Century American Scrimshawed powder horn with patriotic motif brought a notable $6,325. Class III items were also in high demand with aggressive bidding on an original M60 “Fully Active” (New England Group/Maremont) medium machine gun complete with tripod T&E and pintle which finally sold for $40,250.

The May Premiere Auction by Rock Island Auction Company has set the bar for all other auctions with over $8 Million in sales, an impressive sell through rate, and now the worlds largest firearms auction facility. Since 2004 RIAC has been the world leader in both dollars of guns sold and number of guns sold and with 2011 sales over $10 Million already they are on track to repeat again in 2011.

Join RIAC for their upcoming auctions: July 16th and 17th Regional Firearms auction, and the next Premiere Auction will be held September 9th 10th, 11th. RIAC is currently seeking consignments for upcoming auctions. Consign one piece or an entire collection and know that you are consigning with the best. For more information on selling at auction contact Pat Hogan or Judy Voss at 800-238-8022 or visit the website www.rockislandauction.com

This Custom Engraved Gold Inlaid Winchester Model 21 Two Barrel Set 28 and 410 Gauge Grand American Double Barrel Shotgun with Case sold for $31,625.00

About:
Rock Island Auction Company has been solely owned and operated by Patrick Hogan. This company was conceived on the idea that both the sellers and buyers should be completely informed and provided a professional venue for a true auction. After working with two other auction companies, Mr. Hogan began Rock Island Auction in 1993. Rock Island Auction Company has grown to be one of the top firearms auction houses in the nation. Under Mr. Hogan’s guidance the company has experienced growth each and every year; and he is the first to say it is his staff’s hard work and determination that have yielded such results. Visit: www.rockislandauction.com

CMP M1D Garand Rifle

Hornady Ammunition

Grand Island, Neb. --(Ammoland.com)- CMP and Hornady have teamed up to bring a new match to the 2011 CMP Eastern and Western games, and Camp Perry.

The Vintage Sniper Rifle Match was proposed several years ago by Dave Emary of Hornady Manufacturing, as a way to include many of the vintage sniper rifles that are in circulation, yet lack an official shooting format. CMP and Hornady included it as a test match for the 2010 CMP Eastern and Western Games with great success, drawing large turnouts and positive comments.

The Vintage Sniper Rifle Match will feature a two-man team format, with each alternating as shooter and spotter, and firing 10 rounds at both 300 and 600 yards. Match rifles will be original or replica sniper rifles issued through the Korean War. Allowable optics will be original scopes or replicas, along with a few commercial scopes giving essentially the same optical performance. Download a complete list of acceptable rifles and scopes as well as rules and regulations.

Short, 20-second target exposures, followed by maximum 20-seconds in the pits, differentiates this match, making it both challenging and fun. Teams must plan and communicate to do well, with the spotter tracking wind conditions, giving clear and concise wind calls to the shooter.

All shooting takes place in the prone position. Slings may be used for support, or sandbags will be supplied as a rest if the team chooses to use them. Mechanical supports or rear rests may not be used.

A custom trophy designed as a memorial to Hornady founder, J.W. Hornady, is being commissioned by CMP and Hornady for Camp Perry. Hornady will provide Match ammunition in 6.5 X 55 mm, 303 British, 7.62 X 54R, and 8 X 57 mm, to go along with its excellent 30-06 M1 Garand Match ammunition. All will be made available to shooters for purchase through the CMP.

Now is the time to buy a CMP M1D, or Gibbs 1903A4, or put together a rifle with some of the excellent replica mounts and scopes on the market. The match will be an official competition at the 2011 CMP Eastern and Western games, and will be held immediately after the Hearst Match at the 2011 National Matches at Camp Perry.

Cmp Competition Rules

About:
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 is a world leader in bullet, ammunition, reloading tool and accessory design and manufacture. Visit: www.hornady.com

Final Year Of Time-Limited Collectible Series Kicks Off

Pennsylvania Game Commission

HARRISBURG, PA --(Ammoland.com)- The fifth and final year of the Pennsylvania Game Commission’s two time-limited collectible series – the Wild Turkey Heritage Series and the Upland Game Bird Series – now are available for ordering. Limited to the first 1,000 orders, which will be delivered between October and December, those interested should place orders through the agency’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us), or by calling 1-888-888-3459 (toll-free).

In addition to ordering online, a downloadable application is available on the agency’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) by clicking on “General Store” in the menu bar under the banner, then click on “Collectible Series and Items.” The mailing address is listed on the application.

The two, five-year series, which were launched in 2007, incorporate products grown and made in Pennsylvania, as well as the designs of an award-winning Pennsylvania wildlife artist.

“The individually numbered wild turkey calls and knives are handsome additions to any collection,” said Carl G. Roe, Game Commission executive director. “Both series, which also offer corresponding fine-art prints and patches, feature products made in Pennsylvania by Pennsylvanians.

“It’s also important to remember that all purchases from these collectible lines will support wildlife conservation in Pennsylvania and help preserve our hunting heritage.”

The “Wild Turkey Heritage Series” featured five collectible box-style turkey calls, made in Pennsylvania by Top Calls in Renovo, Clinton County, and are priced at $49.95 (plus tax and shipping). Each year, the calls have been made from a different Pennsylvania-grown wood. The final year will feature a combination of walnut, maple and sycamore. The first four calls of this series were cedar, walnut, cherry and sassafras. Each call comes in a green velvet bag and features a different wild turkey scene.

The “Upland Game Bird Series” featured five collectible mini-trapper knives made by W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Co., of Bradford, McKean County, and are priced at $74.95 (plus tax and shipping). For the final year, the knife will feature a mourning dove, and will have a dark red bone handle. The first four years featured the ruffed grouse with an amber bone handle; American woodcock with a chestnut bone handle; ring-necked pheasant with an old red bone handle; and bobwhite quail with an antique bone handle. All knives come in an attractive tin featuring the artwork of that year’s upland game bird.

Complementing the turkey calls and knives will be a special fine-art print and collector’s patch designed by Gerald W. Putt, of Boiling Springs, Cumberland County. Each art print –available either framed or unframed – and patch will represent the original wildlife artwork used for each product line.

The patches, for both series, sell for $5.66. Also, both framed prints, which are 13×18 inches, sell for $179.95, and unframed prints are available for $79.95. All products are subject to state sales tax and shipping and handling charges.

To wrap up this five-year series, the Game Commission also is offering a display case that holds all five turkey calls and a frame that holds five patches. Both the display case and patch frame were designed by Top Calls, of Renovo, and are handcrafted from Pennsylvania cherry wood.

The turkey call display case, which sells for $65 (plus tax and shipping), has “Wild Turkey Heritage Collection” engraved on it along with the Game Commission logo. Customers also may request that the engraving be personalized. The display case dimensions are 17 inches high, by 10.5 inches wide by 2.75 inches deep.

The patch frame sells for $35.85 (plus tax and shipping), and is engraved with the Game Commission logo and the words “Pennsylvania Game Commission.” Customers also may have it personalized. The frame’s dimensions are 25 inches wide, by six inches high by one inch deep.

Orders for the display case and frames may be placed by calling the Game Commission’s Paid Publications Division at 1-888-888-3459 (toll-free). Photos of both items are posted on the Outdoor Shop for review only.

A limited supply of the 2008, 2009 and 2010 Upland Game Bird Knives and Turkey Calls are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

fw media

Cincinnati, Ohio --(Ammoland.com)- What’s the story? Where do the 65 million gun owners in the United States turn for information on the latest gun trends?

With sales of over 60,000 copies annually, the Gun Digest provides its readers with all the latest trend information through product reports from top-name authorities, and access to a one-of-a-kind catalog index – with exhaustive illustrations – of major and lesser known brands of firearms, and valuable contact information.

Gun Digest 2012 66th Edition

Containing 256 color pages that highlight product reports and advancement in the firearms field and reviews of catalogued accessories used to enhance firearms, such as scopes, metallic sights, laser sights, and reloading press, Gun Digest 2012 is the definitive resource for the shooting sportsman and arms enthusiast.

What does it mean for the audience?
Shooters, Collectors, Hunters and Students of the firearm can get every bit of detailed information they need.

Being the most extensive and well-maintained annually updated directory of the Arms Trade, Gun Digest 2012 is the best source of latest information for the arms enthusiast.

Who is the author?
A lifelong firearms enthusiast, Dan Shideler is the editor of Standard Catalog of Firearms, Gun Digest Book of Guns & Prices, Modern Gun Values, Gun Digest and other Krause Publication titles. He also is a frequent contributor to Gun Digest Magazine and other national firearms publications.

Bear Trap: Circa 1880s Oneida Newhouse No. 6 bear trap, weighing 43 lbs., with wicked teeth ($3,491).

SoldUSA.com

MATTHEWS, NC --(Ammoland.com)- A vintage Oneida Newhouse No. 6 bear trap, made in the 1880s and weighing a whopping 43 pounds, with three wicked-looking teeth mounted on each massive jaw, sold for $3,491 in an Internet and catalog auction that went online in February and ended March 19 by SoldUSA.com, the hunting and fishing collectibles and militaria auction website.

The trap still had its original anchor chain – also heavy and massive – and a slickpan with raised letters that read, “S. Newhouse Oneida Community, N.Y.,” with “No. 6” in the center. The trap folded up for storage and was an impressive 44 inches when fully opened out. It still had a good deal of the original black paint and the rest showed old surface rust that patina’d out well.

“We got this bear trap in about a week before the sale ended,” said David Reichle of SoldUSA.com. “That’s too bad, because I believe if more people had known about it for a longer time, it could have brought $5,000 or more. What a piece. It was found in an abandoned house in Colorado by the consignor, who called us looking to sell.”

The trap was one of about 1,700 lots that changed hands in an auction that featured ammo (600 lots), guns (50 lots), militaria (350 lots), advertising items (50 lots), and coins (50 lots, all silver and copper). The auction attracted over 25,000 registered online bidders, from as far away as Australia, New Zealand, France and Canada. Phone, fax and absentee bidding was also brisk.

“I really do believe the economy is picking up,” Mr. Reichle observed. “This was easily the most active auction of the last three we’ve held, and bidding was spirited across the board. I just came back from the Wannamaker’s Gun Show in Tulsa, and that place was jammed with gun enthusiasts and fans of militaria. You’d never have guessed there’s a recession going on.”

Following are additional highlights from the auction. All prices quoted include a 13 percent buyer’s premium.

The top lot of the sale was a gorgeous and quite stunning fancy double eagle coin necklace in a coronet setting, the centerpiece of which was a rare U.S. $20 gold coin set in 14kt gold. The coin was flanked by 43 diamonds, totaling 2.03 carats. The necklace even had a nice storage pouch, as well as a dated jeweler’s appraisal sheet. A determined bidder paid $3,995.

An early Colt 2nd model new line .22 caliber pocket revolver, made sometime between 1873 and 1884 and having 99 percent of of the original nickel plate and genuine elephant ivory grips, hammered for $1,068. The weapon was serial #4559 (proving it was an early production model) and it boasted nearly all of the fire blue on the hammer, trigger, cylinder, pin and barrel.

Ammo boxes are hugely collectible, and this sale had some wonderful examples. An original, unopened 50-count box of Winchester model 1873 .44 caliber cartridges (two-piece, fully sealed, with the correct green box top) breezed to $564; while a full brick of Remington Kleanbore .22 caliber Winchester shells, showing considerable shelf wear, still realized $535.

Anything with the name Winchester on it does consistently well. An outdoor metal sign reading, “Winchester Rifles, Shot Guns and Ammunition,” beautifully framed and matted, 10 inches by 13.5 inches, brought $565; and a hard-to-find Winchester referee’s whistle (No. 1806), nickel plated, on a 14-inch chain and still with the original cork ball inside, topped out at $283.

Pistols were offered in abundance. A Winchester model 363 single-shot target pistol, still in the original box (serial #043157), caliber 4.5mm/.177, hit the mark for $481; a mid-1880s Pepperbox bar hammer 6-shot pistol with rotating 3-inch barrel, .31 caliber, coasted to $398; and an Allen & Thurber bar hammer ladies’ muff pistol with screw-on barrel, .36 caliber, made $344.

Rounding out the sale’s top lots: an original muster and payroll document for Company H, 41st Georgia Volunteer Infantry, for Dec. 31, 1862 through Feb. 28, 1863, with detailed listings of 52 officers and men in the company, with all their signatures, went for $386; and a World War I M1917 bolo knife (Plumb Mfg., Phila., 1918), with wood scabbard, sold for $208.

SoldUSA.com’s next big auction is already online and concludes May 21. Featured are hundreds of lots of ammunition, militaria, advertising items (to include a 1948 Coca-Cola Art Deco-style wall clock), coins and ephemera, to include calendars and posters. The paper items have been photographed in normal conditions and with a black light, to show their restoration.

Colt Revolver: Colt 2nd model new line pocket revolver, .22 caliber, made between 1873 and 1884 ($1,068).

To learn more about SoldUSA.com and the auction slated to end May 21, please log on to www.SoldUSA.com. The firm is always looking for quality consignments for future sales. To consign a single item or an entire collection, you may call them at (704) 815-1500, or you can e-mail them at support@SoldUSA.com. For more information, log on to www.SoldUSA.com.

CalGunLaws.com

Long Beach, California --(Ammoland.com)- Collectors of “replica antique firearms” have been able to buy and sell these collectibles without going through the usual arduous federal and state law required process for acquiring modern firearms.

This has generally been legal because a “replica” of an “antique firearm” is not considered a “firearm” under federal or (most) state laws, and so is not regulated as one.

But “replicas” have fallen under the legal definition of “antique firearms” in the past because the ammunition for these firearms was not readily available in the ordinary channels of commercial trade. As rare calibers of rimfire and centerfire ammunition have become more readily available on the internet however, the possibility that replicas of antique firearms will no longer be exempted from the definition of “firearms,” and consequently the likelihood of these replicas being regulated like modern firearms under federal law, is increasing.

This possible narrowing of the legal definition of “antique firearms” may also effect the amount of black powder a person/company may commercially manufacture under federal law.

Collectors should be aware of and keep an eye on these potential developments. Understanding the situation requires an understanding of the legal context in which antique firearms and replicas of antique firearms regulated and exempted from federal and state restrictions; as well as the requirements and exceptions for manufacturing black powder. These are discussed in a new memo published by Michel & Associates, P.C. To read it,

Gun Ammo Googling

Conclusion:
The availability of almost all types of unique calibers and sizes of ammunition on the internet may change the analysis of whether a replica of an antique firearm will be exempt under federal and state law transfer requirements. This new found availability may prove problematic for those who wish to continue to acquire replica “antique firearms” without having to purchase them through a firearm dealer, because one of the definitions that classify a replica as an “antique firearm” steadily losing its scope. This may also have an effect on manufacturers of black powder who had previously made limited amounts of the substance for sporting, recreational, or cultural purposes without a federal license.

Colt Model 1911 - Master Engraved Anniversary Edition

NRAFoundation.org

FAIRFAX, VA --(Ammoland.com)- The NRA Foundation proudly announces the donation of a unique Anniversary Model 1911 pistol from Colt’s Manufacturing Company. Celebrating 100 years of the 1911, the commemorative pistol is currently up for auction on GunBroker.com.

After being formally adopted by the Army in the year 1911, the pistol gained its designation as the Colt Model 1911 and was adopted by both the Navy and Marine Corps in 1913. During a century of service, the 1911 served as a staple of the United States military and as an iconic symbol for it. Among those who used it, the 1911 won a reputation for unmatched ruggedness, reliability and effectiveness.

The pistol, based on the model O1918, features over 300 hours of hand engraving by Colt master engravers in classic American style scroll. Authentic ivory grips display images of Sam Colt and a WWI Doughboy holding a Model 1911. High relief 24 karat gold inlays feature the text “100 years of Faithful Service” and the Colt Dome on the top of the slide and a profile of John Browning with the serial number “1911COLT001” on the right side. The left side includes the text “1911 2011” with the Rampant Colt inlaid in the center.

This one-of-a-kind firearm is being auctioned on GunBroker.com with a hand-made walnut museum-style display case donated by Brookfield Case of Coopersville, Michigan to support the unending battle for protection of Americans’ right to bear arms. The auction will end during The National NRA Foundation Banquet at the 2011 NRA Annual Meetings in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

To commemorate this rare opportunity, the 100th Anniversary Colt Model 1911-Master Engraved Edition winning bidder will receive Colt’s hand-drawn sketches, signed by each of the engravers, in a custom frame with NRA coin and lapel pin. In addition to this unique firearm auction, the future 1911COLT001 owner will also have the opportunity to tour Colt’s Manufacturing Facility in Connecticut with a Colt Executive.

Lieutenant General William M. Keys, USMC (ret.), President and Chief Executive Officer of Colt’s Manufacturing Company, stated, “In 1911, we teamed up with John Browning and commissioned him to design a pistol chambered in .45 Automatic Colt Pistol to win the Army’s new pistol competition. Now, 100 years later, it’s our rare privilege, as the original maker of the Model 1911 pistol, to team up with The NRA Foundation to furnish this Anniversary Model for sale to the highest bidder.”

“Colt’s generous donation will assist The NRA Foundation in securing the future of NRA’s programs for the American public to experience,” said John DaSilva, National Manager, Events and Marketing of NRA Field Operations. “The support from our industry partners is vital in our successful mission and grassroots efforts to service the needs of NRA’s programs.”

To purchase tickets for the 2011 National NRA Foundation Banquet, visit www.nraam.org or call 703-267-1417. Live bidding is currently underway at www.gunbroker.com and concludes on the night of the event on 4/28 at 9:00 PM EST.

The NRA Foundation is the country’s leading charitable organization in support of the shooting sports, awarding more than $140 million in grants since its inception in 1990. Through its efforts, the Foundation provides essential funding for programs such as youth education, law enforcement training, conservation, and marksmanship training.

Collectible Firearms Reference Sites From Rock Island Auctions

Rock Island Auction Company

Moline, IL --(Ammoland.com)- We frequently get asked for photos or prices of items sold in past auctions.

As a service to collectors we rolled out a bunch of sites of various genres of items we have already sold.

These items are not in our current auction but just a good source of photos, descriptions and past price estimates.

As the Nation’s Leading Auction House for Firearms, Edged Weapons & Military Artifacts we successfully auction thousands of firearms each year.

Antique and Collectible Firearms Sites:

• 1911 Singer Pistols
• 1911 Pistol Collectors
• 1 of 1000 Firearms
• 22 Caliber Rimfire Guns
• Antique Deringer Collectors
• Cannon Collector
• Civil War Firearm Collectors
• Civil War Henry Rifles
• Class III Weapons Collectors
• Colt Dragoon Revolver Collectors
• Colt Presentation Firearms
• Colt Walker Revolver Collectors
• Colt Percussion Firearms Collectors
• Double Rifle and Drilling Collectors
• European Military Firearms
• Gatling Gun Collectors
• German Military Firearms
• German Luger Collectors
• Henry Rifle Collectors
• Japanese Military Firearms
• Knives and Edged Weapons Collectors
• Luger Carbine Collectors
• Machine Gun Collectors
• Sword and Edged Weapon Collectors
• Paterson Firearms Collectors
• Sharps Collectors
• Submachine Gun Collectors
• Tactical and Assault Rifle Collectors
• Texas Paterson Revolvers
• Thompson Machine Gun Collectors
• U.S. Military Firearm Collectors
• Volcanic Arms Collectors
• Winchester Shotgun Collectors

Collectible Firearms Reference Sites From Rock Island Auctions

About:
Rock Island Auction Company has been solely owned and operated by Patrick Hogan. This company was conceived on the idea that both the sellers and buyers should be completely informed and provided a professional venue for a true auction. After working with two other auction companies, Mr. Hogan began Rock Island Auction in 1993. Rock Island Auction Company has grown to be one of the top firearms auction houses in the nation. Under Mr. Hogan’s guidance the company has experienced growth each and every year; and he is the first to say it is his staff’s hard work and determination that have yielded such results. Visit: www.rockislandauction.com

US M1 Carbine, this rifle was safe for our grandfathers, why not us?

National Rifle Association

FAIRFAX, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- In 2009, the Obama administration approved the importation and sale of collectible, American-made M1 Garand rifles and M1 carbines from South Korea. However, the administration reversed its decision in March of last year, deciding instead to prevent these rifles – legal to make and purchase in the United States – from entering the country.

As we reported last October, U.S. Senators and Representatives from both sides of the aisle urged Secretary of State Clinton to revisit her department’s decision.

Now, S. 381—the Collectible Firearms Protection Act—sponsored by U.S. Senator Jon Tester (D-Mont.), and its House companion bill H.R. 615, sponsored U.S. Representative Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), seek to once again allow these American-made firearms to be re-imported and sold in the U.S.

NRA-ILA Executive Director Chris W. Cox made the following statement in support of the legislation: “The importation restrictions on M1 rifles and carbines was a defacto gun ban. These firearms are sought after by gun collectors as they are a part of America’s history. They are also commonly used for lawful purposes such as hunting, sports shooting and self defense. On behalf of the tens of millions of law-abiding American gun owners, I would like to thank these legislators for their leadership in presenting a legislative fix to this backdoor gun ban.”

“This is a common sense bill that is designed to allow law-abiding Americans to own a piece of history,” said Tester, Chairman of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus. “This is a simple issue of making sure that a government bureaucracy doesn’t stand in the way of our Second Amendment rights.”

Under the bill, firearms that are lawfully possessed by a foreign government—and that are more than 50 years old and considered antiques or relics—may be re-imported to properly licensed groups and sold without written permission from the U.S. Departments of State or Defense.

About:
Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America’s oldest civil rights and sportsmen’s group. Four million members strong, NRA continues its mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and to advocate enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation’s leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the military. Visit: www.nra.org

NRA - ILA

Charlotte, NC --(Ammoland.com)- NRA-ILA grass roots news continues to cover break gun rights news with a new and improved format for the “Grassroots News Minute” video!

To view the current video in its new format, please click above:

Read More on these topics:

• House Bill Could Allow Korean M1 Rifles to Come Home
• Amendment Blocks ATF From Tracking Rifle Purchases
• Act Immediately To Block ATF Long Gun Sales Reporting

About:
Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America’s oldest civil rights and sportsmen’s group. Four million members strong, NRA continues its mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and to advocate enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation’s leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the military. Visit: www.nra.org

CSM A-10 American Shotgun

Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing

Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing Company has partnered with four distinguished gun dealers to form Galazan Premium Galleries where the public can see and hold the A-10 American without making the trip to Connecticut.

The Galazan Premium Galleries are located at Cook-Winston & Company in Boerne, TX; Puglisi Gun Emporium in Duluth, MN; Steve Barnett Fine Guns in West Point, MS; and John Foster Gunmakers in Carlton, Stockton-on-Tees, England.

These well-established Gunrooms have the knowledge and expertise to exhibit and explain the A-10 American in full detail. The Galleries will stock multiple versions and configurations so enthusiasts may see and hold one even if they do not live near Connecticut. Aside from Connecticut Shotgun, these Premium Galleries are the only sources by which a new A-10 American may be ordered.

For more information on these Galleries, visit www.connecticutshotgun.com. For more information on the A-10 American, visit www.a10american.com or call Connecticut Shotgun Mfg. Co. at (860)225-6581.

Connecticut Shotgun Mfg. Co. was founded in 1975 by the current president Antony Galazan. The company’s established principle of producing the finest American shotguns has previously been realized through their popular RBL series, the innovative A-10 American, the handcrafted A. Galazan over/unders and the modern reproductions of the A.H. Fox, Parker, and Winchester Model 21.

Whitney revolver: Civil War-era Whitney “New Model” .31 caliber 5-shot revolver with a 6-inch barrel ($1,092).

SoldUSA.com

MATTHEWS, NC --(Ammoland.com)- A colorfully rich and vibrant poster from 1909, advertising the Winchester .401 caliber self-loading rifle, one of the most highly sought after of the Winchester images, sold for $4,246 in an Internet and catalog auction that went online in mid-December and ended Jan. 22 by SoldUSA.com.

The poster was the top lot of the hundreds that changed hands.

The auction featured an array of categories: vintage firearms, ammunition and ammo boxes, militaria, advertising items, hunting and fishing and a nice selection of rare Buffalo Bill memorabilia. “Thanks to the high prices realized in this auction, we’ve had numerous inquiries from consignors for the next sale, ending March 19,” remarked David Reichle of SoldUSA.com.

Winchester poster: The top lot of the sale was this Winchester poster from 1909, art by Philip R. Goodwin ($4,246).

Mr. Reichle said he was impressed with the spirited bidding in the Jan. 22 auction, and took it as a sign the economy is in a state of recovery. “Not only were prices going higher than even we expected, but we signed up around 200 new bidders, who competed with the large number of old bidders who also participated,” he said. “The sale overall was very encouraging.”

The Winchester poster was a beauty, and a rare beauty at that, originally executed by Philip R. Goodwin (specifically for Winchester) and lithographed circa 1908. The poster measured 15 ¼ inches by 29 ½ inches (which is correct), and had both top and bottom bands. It had some light wrinkling near the top and bottom, but the piece’s rarity overrode its minor flaws.

Following are additional highlights from the auction. All prices quoted include a 13 percent buyer’s premium.

The sale’s second top lot was another Winchester item – a 1917 calendar titled Spooked, originally painted in 1915 by W.K. Leigh (for Winchester) and lithographed in 1916 by the American Litho Co. (N.Y.). Also, a bright and clean shell box for Winchester Precision 200 target cartridges (.22 cal.) brought $475. All the shells were correct and three had been polished.

A beautiful condition Burnside cavalry carbine rifle, all-original and fully functional in dry operation, hammered for $1,718. The metal on the weapon had a plum/brown patina, with no deep pitting, and the wood had not been sanded or otherwise touched. The bore showed strong rifling, with normal widespread pitting. A label said the rifle had been “used at Fort Sanders.”

An Evans lever-action sporting rifle with an interesting provenance changed hands for $1,302. The weapon had been assembled from leftover parts after the Evans Repeating Rifle Company went into bankruptcy in 1879. The work was supposedly done by E.G. Ridout & Co. (N.Y.) or Turner & Ross (Boston, Mass.), the two firms that acquired Evans’ remaining stock.

An extremely rare 1864 Lamson, Goodnow & Yale Company contract musket, with fantastic cartouches on the stock, scored a bull’s-eye for $1,163. Only around 50,000 guns in this line were made, with this particular model being the last of the three types produced by the firm. The metal on the musket had a silver gray patina, with some light to moderate pinprick pitting.

A nice Civil War-era Whitney ‘New Model’ .31 caliber 5-shot revolver with a 6-inch barrel rang out at $1,092. The revolver was complete and in fine, original condition. The barrel and frame showed a uniform brown patina and the trigger guard a dull brass finish. The original numbered walnut grips were solid and intact. A prior owner had carved his initials into the grip.

An early World War II German Luftwaffe radio operator/air gunner badge, cased and made by C.E. Junkers (Berlin) coasted to $1,056. The beautiful wartime badge featured two-piece construction, with two rivets on the reverse mounting an eagle to an oak leaf wreath. The original blue leatherette case had outside gold lettering, and was hinged with a locking front.

Rounding out the sale’s top lots, an 1860 Colt Army pistol with a very rare detachable shoulder stock, measuring 17 inches long and boasting an all-original wood butt stock with brass butt plate, commanded $565; and a Springfield-Krag M1899 carbine (3rd Model, made in 1902), one of only 2,000 manufactured and one of the last carbines in the Krag series, garnered $783.

SoldUSA.com’s next Internet and catalog auction is already online and will conclude March 19. Featured are hundreds of lots of militaria, ammunition, firearms and more. At press time, consignments for this sale were still being accepted. To consign an item or a collection, you may call SoldUSA.com at (704) 815-1500, or e-mail them at support@SoldUSA.com.

Winchester shell box: Winchester Precision 200 target cartridges shell box (.22 caliber), bright and fully correct ($475).

To learn more about SoldUSA.com and the auction currently underway, please log on to www.SoldUSA.com. Images of many lots are there, in color, and updates are posted frequently.

Browning Firearms

Morgan, UT --(Ammoland.com)- Without doubt, John M Browning was the world’s foremost designer of firearms.

While other designers also made extremely significant contributions to firearms design and production, those designed John M. Browning have seen longer and wider service than any other guns in history.

He was granted more than 100 patents during his lifetime and many of his designs, like the 1911 pistol, continue to be the design of choice in competition, law enforcement and the military.

The Browning 1911 was just another revolutionary gun by one of the greatest gun designers of all time, John Moses Browning, the founder of today’s Browning Arms Company.

John M Browning with Shotgun

His major firearms designs included:

Single-Shot Rifle:

• Winchester 1885

Bolt-Action Rifle:

• Winchester 1900

Lever-Action Rifles:

• Winchester 1886
• Winchester 1892
• Winchester 1894
• Winchester 1895

Slide-Action Rifles:

• Winchester 1890

Recoil-Operated Semi-Automatic Rifles:

• Remington Model 8 and 81

Blowback-Operated Semi-Automatic Rifles:

• Browning 22 Semi-auto

Double-Barrel Shotgun:

• Browning Superposed

Lever-Action Shotgun:

• Winchester 1887

Slide-Action Shotguns:

• Winchester 1897
• Remington Model 17 (later the Ithaca 37)
• Stevens 520

Recoil-Operated Semi-Automatic Shotguns:

• Browning Auto 5 / Remington Model 11

Blowback-Operated Semi-Automatic Pistols:

• FN M1900
• Colt 1903/1908 Pocket Hammerless
• FN 1906 Vest Pocket/Colt 1908 Vest Pocket
• FN 1910
• Colt Woodsman .22

Recoil-Operated Semi-Automatic Pistols:

• Colt 1902
• Colt 1903 Pocket Hammer
• U.S. M1911
• FN G.P. 35 Hi Power

Gas-Operated Machine Guns:

• Colt M1895
• U.S. M1918 BAR

Recoil-Operated Machine Guns:

• U.S. M1917/M1919
• U.S. M2 Heavy Machine Gun

Automatic Machine Cannon:

• Colt Browning 37mm

Visit: www.browning.com

Rock Island 2010 Firearms Auctions

Rock Island Auction Company

Moline, IL --(Ammoland.com)- Rock Island Auction’s December 3, 4, & 5 Premiere sale at their facility in Moline, IL proved to be the event of the year realizing sales of $9.7 million.

Their total yearly sales broke a world record topping out at $32 million, which is $10 million MORE than any other firearms auction house.

Once again the auction offered up something for nearly every level of collector. This sale featured more than 2,700 quality lots of outstanding firearms covering many firearm genre’s. The top seller in the auction, a presentation Colt buntline special single action army revolver from the J.A. Hegeman and Stagecoach Museum collection brought applause from the crowd as it realized $368,000. A cased extremely rare Jeffery double barrel rifle in 600 nitro express caliber brought more excitement as it realized $126,500, more than double the high estimate. Other highlights included a rare original Iron Frame Henry Rifle which brought $120,750, and an outstanding 1939 gold plated Mauser Luger presented to the foreign ambassador or the Reich brought $74,750.

This sale also contained one of the most complete U.S. Military collections ever offered by RIAC from the first U.S. Martial pistol through WWII. Exceeding its expectations a final bid of $57,500 won a Historic Civil War 7th Illinois Infantry inscribed Henry lever action rifle. An extraordinary, complete all original WWII Winchester “T3″ Carbine with original First Patten M-2 Infrared Sniper Scope and all the accessories brought a staggering $46,000. The rarest of all semi-automatics, Singer Mfg. Model 1911A1 Serial Number 1 took a high bid of $80,500.

An important section of the U.S. firearms genre was the Martial arms. The Martial arms collection in this auction was the finest RIAC has ever offered, and the prices reflected this. A very rare North & Cheney Model 1799 pistol brought $48,875, and a U.S. Navy Elgin Cutlass pistol brought $31,625. Another interesting part of this collection was a massive, documented U.S. Garrison flag flown at the Lincoln-Douglas debate at Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois that commanded $17,250.

A complete history of the Colt firearm was represented with over 500 rare and outstanding conditioned firearms. An exceptional Colt Paterson Belt Model Revolver No. 2 (Fifth Model Ehlers) and Extraordinary Serial Number 1 Colt Open Top 44 both brought $80,500 each. A Documented Colt Model 1900 Sight Safety Navy Contract Automatic realized $23,000. A Colt 1855 20 gauge shotgun Serial Number 2 brought $28,750.

The early antique arms in this sale had several notable sales including a fine pair of Lazarino Cominazzo flintlock pistols that sold for $31,625. Other early arms that commanded attention from the bidders were the Kentucky rifles. An exceptional transitional relief carved Kentucky rifle which brought $28,750 and a rare John Armstrong Golden Age Kentucky rifle realized $25,875.

A nice selection of Foreign Military arms including a Japanese “Grandpa Nambu Pistol Rig” with matching magazine and matching combination wooden shoulder stock/holster exceeded its estimate and brought $28,750.00. An excellent Japanese “Baby Nambu” semi-automatic pistol topped its estimate of $4,750 realizing $7,475.00. German memorabilia; SS Concentration Camp Officer’s Style Peaked Service Cap more than doubled its high estimate when it brought $13,800.00 and a Nazi SS Officer’s Brocade Dress Belt and Belt Buckle surpassed its estimate bringing $12,650.

The evolution of the Winchester was well represented in the auction spanning 100 years of production from the volcanic pistol through to the model 70 bolt action rifle. A fine factory engraved Winchester model 1866 lever action rifle brought $43,125 and a rare new haven arms Henry rifle with Japanese markings realized $46,000. A top bid of $43,125 won an extraordinary factory documented Winchester model 1886 deluxe 50 Express Take Down Lever Action Rifle and an exceptional Model 21 Grand American 28 gauge shotgun garnered $31,625.

The shotgun and sporting rifle prices in this auction were absolutely stunning. A massive G Bates 4 bore double barrel shotgun bringing $31,625 and a Manton 8 gauge slug double rifle realizing $28,750 were but a few highlights. Other notable sales in this genre were a Kreighoff Essencia sidelock shotgun bringing $23,000, and an A.H. Fox HE Grade “Super Fox” side by side shotgun bringing $17,250.

RIAC not only broke their own sales record by exceeding $32 million in sales for 2010, but they did it while maintaining a 97% sell-through rate for the year. Now for the past three years RIAC has averaged over 30 million in sales; a feat no other firearms auction house in the world even comes close to.

Rock Island Auction Company is currently seeking consignments. Consign one piece or an entire collection and know that you are consigning with the best. For more information on selling at auction contact Pat Hogan or Judy Voss at 800-238-8022.

Visit www.rockislandauction.com for 2011 upcoming auction schedule.

About:
Rock Island Auction Company has been solely owned and operated by Patrick Hogan. This company was conceived on the idea that both the sellers and buyers should be completely informed and provided a professional venue for a true auction. After working with two other auction companies, Mr. Hogan began Rock Island Auction in 1993. Rock Island Auction Company has grown to be one of the top firearms auction houses in the nation. Under Mr. Hogan’

Japanese Arisaka Rifles

FirearmsTruth.com

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- Japanese rifles often get a bad rap, at least when compared to the rifles of the other major combatant powers of World War II.

Even collectors of militaria view the Japanese rifles as being of a lower quality, but this isn’t quite true.

One reason for this misconception is that much of what survived, and is now in collections is actually from the later war years, thus not up to the highest quality.

“The fit, finish & overall quality of manufacture on early Japanese weapons equals if not surpasses weapons made by other participants of World War II,” explains advanced Japanese militaria collector Jareth Holub. “It wasn’t until the very last two years, due to U.S. air strikes, that factories started producing subpar products.”

The result is that many of the small arms encountered - notably the famous rifles - are actually late war items. This has resulted in the misconception that Japanese small arms were always somewhat inferior. It is true however that the two main combat rifles, the Arisaka Type 38 and the Type 99 rifles were essentially based on technology used a generation earlier – but it should be remembered that the same held true for most of the other powers at the start of World War II as well. Even the United States was still in the process of rearming with the M1 rifle, and thus large numbers of 1903 Springfield rifles were used in the early stages of the war.

Likewise, Germany and Russian were using their respective bolt action rifles at war’s end, as were the British. The Japanese actually faced greater resource problems than the other powers, but they also had cultural issues – essentially a “want not, need not” mentality. Additionally, another issue complicated matters for the Japanese military, namely the acknowledged rivalry and simmering hatred between the Japanese army and navy.

“This led to the navy having to struggle to procure arms and equipment from the government & eventually led up to the navy establishing its own arsenal systems,” emphasizes Holub. “This backbiting and infighting hindered the cooperation between the branches of service and greatly affected the outcome of the war. The Japanese were a very frugal people who didn’t believe in wasting anything including bullets. This was one of the reasons why their submachine gun production was limited. Had they increased production and distribution it might have changed their combat tactics.”

The two main rifles used by the Japanese in World War II are both often called the “Arisaka.” These were named after Colonel Nariake Ariska, who was responsible for creating the commission to find a new rifle. The first pattern was known as the Type 30 rifle (the 30 comes from the 1897 A.D., which was the 30th year of the Emperor Meiji), and this was updated following the Russo-Japanese War in 1905. The new model thus became the Type 38, and it saw service during the First World War – and would remain in service well into World War II and beyond. It was chambered in the 6.5x50SR and more than three million of these were made. The gun clearly was influenced by the German K98 and other Mauser designs. A number of variants existed, including a Type 44 Cavalry Rifle and a Type 97 Sniper Rifle.

During the Second Sino-Japanese War, which began in 1931, it was apparent that a larger cartridge was needed and the Japanese adopted the 7.7x58mm round, based on the British .303 (7.7x57R). To confuse collectors and military historians for decades, this rifle was designated the Type 99 – which in this case refers to the Japanese year 2099, which was believed to be the date of the creation of the world.

It was originally the intention of the Imperial Japanese Army to replace the aging Type 38 with the Type 99, but this was not possible, and with limited resources the two firearms were used side-by-side. Thus the moniker of “Arisaka” is used for both rifles. Because many of the later war rifles were of lower quality, and often called “last ditch” there is a common misconception that all Type 99s were last ditch, but this is far from the case.

Some three and a half million of the Type 99 rifles were made, not counting variations, including the regular short rifle as well as Type 99 Long Rifle, and the Sniper Rifle Type 99. Another version of the rifle, the Type 44 Carbine, was designed primarily for use as a cavalry rifle – although this shouldn’t be confused with the Type 38 Cavalry rifle, a slightly shorter version of the Type 38. The most interesting version is by far the Type 2 Paratroop Rifle, which could broken down into two parts. A final variation are those Type 99 Short Rifles (some 133,000) that were rechambered by the Republic of Korea Army to fire the American .03-06 Springfield cartridge.

Today, the more valuable Type 99s are those with the imperial chrysanthemum intact. Often these were defaced, reportedly by surrendering Japanese soldiers to “preserve the Emperor’s honor,” while another story is that it was a V for Victory and was done by the US Military. Either way, an intact stamp is the more desirable version.

Peter Suciu is executive editor of FirearmsTruth.com, a website that tracks and monitors media bias against guns and our Second Amendment rights. Visit: FirearmsTruth.com

Rock Island Auctions

Rock Island Auction Company

Moline, IL --(Ammoland.com)- Ammoland Firearms enthusiasts, I just returned from the Tulsa Gun Show and WOW what a show!

On Saturday morning we barely finished pulling the final cover off our tables when the crowd hit. This show is like no other, huge venue and huge crowds.

There was plenty of gun chat, catching up with friends, clients and walking. My feet still haven’t forgiven me.

But now I’m back in Illinois and gearing up for our final Premiere Auction of the Year. If you bid at the September auction and missed out on getting what you wanted from the William Ashby Military Collection here’s a second chance as Part II is being sold in this December sale.

We are also strong again in European arms and what would a December auction be without amazing Colts – we have over 550 Colts to please the Colt collector. There are 250 plus Winchesters, 400 plus sporting arms – and more. We have just about something for every collector.

Catalogs have been shipping; if it hasn’t hit your door yet it should any day now!

Make your plans now to be at the auction. We’ll be sure to make your visit a pleasant one. We’re located only 5 minutes from the Quad City International Airport (MLI) and major highways I-74 and I-80. If you need assistance with accommodations we’re happy to help.

See you December 3, 4 and 5. Full Day Preview December 2nd. If you need to stop in sooner simply give us a call.

About:
Rock Island Auction Company has been solely owned and operated by Patrick Hogan. This company was conceived on the idea that both the sellers and buyers should be completely informed and provided a professional venue for a true auction. After working with two other auction companies, Mr. Hogan began Rock Island Auction in 1993. Rock Island Auction Company has grown to be one of the top firearms auction houses in the nation. Under Mr. Hogan’s guidance the company has experienced growth each and every year; and he is the first to say it is his staff’s hard work and determination that have yielded such results. Visit: www.rockislandauction.com

Smith & Wesson Victory Model Revolver

FirearmsTruth.com

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- The Smith & Wesson Model 10 has been called the most successful handgun of all time, and the most popular center-fire revolver of the 20th Century. (See: The History of Smith & Wesson Firearms by Dean K. Boorman).

The Model 10 is a .38-caliber six-shot pistol that first went into production in 1899, known as the .38 Hand Ejector model. The Model 10 is a rugged design yet easy to mass produce. Over 6 million have been manufactured to date.

At the start of WWII, the United States was woefully unprepared for a second world wide conflict. The official handgun of the military at the time was the Colt .45-caliber M1911 and its variants. While this handgun has more stopping power than the Model 10, the M1911 was more difficult to produce so the military purchased over 250,000 Model 10’s. The Smith & Wesson .38’s produced between 1940 and 1945 had serial numbers with a V prefix and were designated as the Victory Model.

Navy and Marine aviators carried the Victory Model as a side arm. The lighter and more compact design made a good fit with for the tight spaces pilots and crew members found inside airplanes of the day. The U.S. Coast Guard used the Victory Model well into the 1990’s. The Victory Model was also used by security officers who guarded factories and defense installations throughout the United States during the war.

To supplement the need for .38’s, the military turned to Colt, and the Colt Commando was born. Like the Victory Model, the Commando was a conventional double action revolver with a parkerized finish and chambered for the .38 Special cartridge. Most had a 4” barrel length, but a few were produced with a 2” barrel and came to be known as Junior Commandos. Colt sold over 45,000 Commando’s before war’s end.

Collectors will find that identifying a Victory Model is simple. The serial number on the butt has a V prefix. The Victory Model serial numbers were a continuation of the numbers used on the S&W .38 revolvers made for the British government prior to the U.S.’s entry into WWII. The U.S. Victory Model was introduced at serial number V-40,000.

After serial number 769,000, the V prefix was changed to VS to indicate these revolvers were fitted with an improved hammer block to help prevent accidental discharges if the gun was dropped. This change was made after the death of a sailor from an accidental discharge of a Victory pistol dropped on the deck of a ship. By the time the war stopped, serial numbers had reached VS-850,000.

The Victory Model was finished in Parkerizing and had plain walnut grips, and a lanyard loop on the butt. Victory Model revolvers generally had their top-straps stamped with an ordnance flaming bomb insignia and several types of markings may be observed. The most commonly encountered are “United States Property”, “Property of the U.S. Navy” markings and “U.S. Property GHD”. Some have been reported with “USMC”, “USCG” and “Property of U.S. Navy” stamped on the side-plates.

A few Victory Model revolvers with 2” barrels were produced. Most of the short barrel Victory Model revolvers don’t have the typical martial markings with the exception of the flaming bomb stamped on the butt.

The S&W Victory Model wasn’t a frontline sidearm. The low velocity .38 special cartridge couldn’t compete with the kinetic energy produced from a standard .45. But it did fulfill its duty well as a sidearm for those who didn’t fight in the infantry frontlines. Any WWII firearms collection would be proud to have a Victory Model alongside the better known weapons of that era.

Peter Suciu is executive editor of FirearmsTruth.com, a website that tracks and monitors media bias against guns and our Second Amendment rights. Visit: FirearmsTruth.com

Tula Tokarev TT-30 Pistol

FirearmsTruth.com

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- In the 1920s, after the end of the Russian Civil War, the Soviet Union’s Red Army looked to replace the aging and obsolete Nagant M1895 revolver.

During the mid to late 1920s a number of pistols designs were considered, and the winner of the bunch of the TT-33, or Tula Tokarev, designed by Fedor Tokarev.

This firearm would become the main service pistol for the Soviet Union, and remaining in service through World War II and beyond, being adapted by numerous other nations under license. Interestingly, the Soviet’s Red Army had relied on numerous foreign handguns, notably the Mauser C96 “Broomhandle.” This weapon’s 7.63mm cartridge had proven reliable was thus popular with the gun’s users. It, along with American handgun designs, would serve as inspiration for the new Soviet firearm.

A classic photo of a Soviet officer during the Great Patriotic War holding the TT-33 Pistol.

Fedor Tokarev noted the popularity of the 7.63x25mm ammo used by the C96 when he designed the TT-33, a short recoil operated, locked breech pistol. Tokarev’s design is chambered for a 7.62x25mm Tokarev cartridge, which was itself actually based on the 7.63x25mm Mauser cartridge. The handgun design further called up Browning’s swinging link system, which was “borrowed” from the Colt M1911 pistol. Externally the gun has a passing resemblance to the earlier Browning blowback operated FN Model 1903. Despite these facts it is incorrect to call the TT-33 a 1911 clone, or suggest that Tokarev merely adapted Browning’s innovations. The Tokarev design actually utilizes a much simpler hammer/sear assembly with an external hammer. However, the single action trigger features no safety, other than the disconnector to prevent out-of-battery fire, and a half-cock notch on the hammer.

Thus the only “safe” way to carry the TT was to have an empty chamber.

The TT-33 did follow standard gun design considerations of the era, and it features an 8-round detachable box magazine, and has an effective range of 50 meters, with a muzzle velocity of 420 m/s (1,378 ft/s).

Known as the TT-33, the “Tokarev” pistol actually entered service in early 1934 and was manufactured in great numbers prior to the outbreak of World War II. By the time of the Nazi invasion of the Soviet Union in June, 1941 some 600,000 TT-33s had been produced, and this number increased greatly during the so-called “Great Patriotic War.” No definitive number of Soviet made TT-33 has even been published, but it is safe to say that millions were likely made. However, production never reached the point that the aging Nagant M1895 pistol was ever fully removed from service. The need for firearms during the war was simply that great.

Following the war the pistol’s design was modified in 1946 to cut production costs, and the handgun was finally taken out of production in 1952, with the introduction of the 9mm Markarov PM pistol. Despite this fact, as with the M1895, it took time to fully replace the aging firearms, and the TT-33 remained in service with the Red Army through the 1960s, and was used by the Soviet Militia (Police) until the 1970s.

The number of TT-33 styled pistols is further increased as the gun was popular with Soviet allies in the post-war era. The handgun was produced by various Communist Bloc nations under license, and these included the China (as the Type 52, Type 54, M20 and TU-90), Poland (as the PW wz.33), North Korea (as the Type 68/M68) , Romania (as the TTC or Cugir Tokarov) and Yugoslavia (as the M57, M65, M70A).

Additionally, Yugoslavia also produced a 9x18mm version known as the M88, while Hungary rebarreled the pistol to fire 9x19mm Parabellum as the M48. The gun was also exported to Egypt (but made in the Soviet Union) and these are known as the Tokagypt 68. The gun remains in use in Pakistan with military and para-military units. This list should by no means be considered complete. Another rare variation is the World War II era Pistole 615(r). These versions were actually captured TT-33s that were reissued by the Germans (with and without German stamps), who used the handguns with the similar 7.63x25mm Mauser cartridge (we wouldn’t suggest trying that at home).

All of these variations are encountered by collectors, and those without import states, produced during the Second World War in good condition continue to fetch the best prices. Most of the imported versions feature an added trigger blocking safety however. Today, the gun remains a classic icon of the Second World War and the early Cold War, making this a firearm popular with collectors and shooters alike – thanks in part to the low cost of the 7.62x25mm ammo.

Chinese type54 Pistol

Peter Suciu is executive editor of FirearmsTruth.com, a website that tracks and monitors media bias against guns and our Second Amendment rights. Visit: FirearmsTruth.com

Rock Island December Premiere Auction

Rock Island Auction Company

Moline, IL --(Ammoland.com)- Moline, IL Rock Island Auction Company announces a Premiere Collector’s Firearms Auction to be held December 3, 4 &5 at their facilities in Moline, IL. Rock Island’s September auction was advertised as the premiere auction of the year, and this auction has the potential to surpass that spectacular sale.

This auction is a study in the history of firearms production. This auction encompasses the spectrum of collecting from ancient and early antique European arms to substantial collection of modern sporting arms. The collecting favorites of Winchesters and Colts will be well represented with several of the finest known and low serial numbered examples. Rock Island auction is once again proud to present an incredible selection of military items from the U.S. martial era to U.S. and foreign arms from WWI & WWII. Firearms collectors and history enthusiasts alike are sure to find the right piece to fill their collections.

Several museum quality Colts will be sold in December. Center stage will be the finest known condition original presentation Colt Single Action Army Buntline and stock with Hegeman and Stagecoach Museum provenance. This revolver is accompanied by a notorized letter from Osborne Klavestad from the Stagecoach Museum in Shakopee, Minnesota identifying this revolver by serial number as being one of only two Buntline 16″ revolvers that were set aside to be presented to Colt employees and never appeared on the common market. (The other Buntline is on display at the Hartford Library).

The letter goes on to state that the gun was found hidden behind some books in an estate in Hartford. Mr. Klavestad says in the letter “The Colt Buntline is probably the finest specimen in existence today, being mint, original, unfired and complete with stock.” The revolver was presented to Colt’s head librarian (bookkeeper) in 1895, was part of the J.R. Hegeman collection and then went on to the Stagecoach Museum in Minnesota in 1928. It was then purchased by Mr. Stanwick in 1978 when he passed away in 2001, the family maintained his most prized collectible possession until 2010. Now they have decided to offer this national treasure at no reserve to another caretaker-RIA. This spectacular piece with its incredible provenance, condition and rarity carries a pre-sale estimate of $250,000-500,000.

A comprehensive grouping of over 550 Colts will be offered from the early Patersons through WWII semi-autos and slide action rifles. Seven Patersons will be offered starting with 4 longarms, an exceptional Belt Model revolver No. 2 – Fifth Model Ehlers ($75,000-130,000) and a rare Belt Model No. 3 revolver ($40,000-60,000). Another museum worth piece, holding an estimate of $100,000-200,000 is Colt’s first cartridge revolver, an extraordinary first cartridge production Colt Open Top 44 revolver, serial number 1. The quality continues with a rare Massachusetts marked Colt 2nd Model dragoon revolver that is estimated to bring $60,000-90,000. Continuing through Colt production brings fine single actions featuring a historic Ainsworth-Inspected Colt Single Action Army revolver in 7th Cavalry serial number range with holster and a unique antique Colt Bisley with factory documented inscription, pearl grips and ultra-rare box each carrying a $35,000-55,000 estimate. A spectacular pair of consecutively numbered Denise Therion factory master engraved Colt single action army revolvers with relief carved ivory grips leads a nice selection of engraved 2nd/3rd generation SAA’s.

U.S. military is represented from the Revolutionary War to WWII. The best martial arms collection RIAC has ever offered is well represented by an extremely rare North & Cheney U.S. Model 1799 Flintlock pistol – one of only about 20 surviving examples ($50,000-70,000) and an exceptionally rare S. North dueling pistol from the estate of Simeon North ($35,000-55,000). The December auction also holds two rare Martially marked Elgin Cutlass pistols with pre-sale estimates of $16,000-25,000 (only 150 were ever issued). Nearly 50 martial era rifles and muskets will feature an exceptional extremely rare Harpers Ferry Model 1841 Rifle with Merrill breech-loading alteration and a rare early production marked Wickham Model 1816 musket with Gloucester Brigade (New Jersey) markings and history. Other manufacturers include Springfield Armory U.S., Remington Arms, R. Johnson and many more!

A rare piece of history is found in a massive documented historic U.S. Garrison flag that was flown at the Lincoln-Douglass debate at Knox College in Galesburg, IL. The October 7th, 1858 was a part of a series of debates that focused on slavery in the expanding U.S. They set the stage for Lincoln to take up residence in the White House in 1860 and reflected the fierce ideological debates that led to a civil war. The flag measures a massive 12’6” x 20’6” and now has a total of 36 stars, 3 were added after the historic debate.

The outstanding Civil War Arms will provide a nice selection of Confederate Arms including a very rare Confederate J.P. Murray percussion rifle. Over 100 Civil War arms will also include a fine carbines featuring an extremely rare Jenks-Merrill breech loading percussion carbine, one of only 300 produced. A magnificent cased Civil War presentation model 1850 Staff & Field Officer sword with silver figural hilt, inscription which reads “Presented to Capt. Jacob W. Clark/by members of the 59th Regt. N.Y.V.” is expected to fetch $25,000–35,000.

Moving through history brings a nice selection of trapdoors, Krag rifles and Colt early autos from the Indian Wars, Spanish-American War and WWI. Notable examples include an outstanding Springfield Armory Model 1875 U.S. trapdoor officer’s rifle ($25,000–37,500) and rare and desirable U.S. Springfield rod bayonet Model 1903 rifle ($9,000-20,000). An exceptional Colt Model 1902 (Military) Automatic pistol estimated at $11,000–18,000 is just one of the 100 Colt early autos in this auction.

The U.S. WWII items in this sale are amazing including a historic A-2 flight jacket of General Douglas A. MacArthur, a true American hero ($100,000-200,000) and a historical “one-of-a-kind” serial number “1” Singer Mfg. M1911 Semi-Automatic Pistol ($55,000-95,000), one of two Singers in this auction. A magnificent one-of-a-kind “turn-key” display of an all original WWII Winchester “T3” Carbine with original first pattern M-2 infrared sniper scope and accessories carries a $15,000-30,000 estimate. This section will also bring two rare Savage Military model 1907 semi-automatic trial pistols to the auction block.

Part II of the William Ashby collection leads yet another astounding selection of WWI & WWII European and Japanese Military including over 50 sniper rifles, 15 Krieghoff Lugers, over 50 pp/ppk pistols and 13 rare Bergman pistols. Some German highlights include a factory engraved, gold inlaid Walther model PP pistol with presentation NSFK dagger and capture papers ($10,000-20,000), an exceptional WWII Nazi K98 Mauser Turret style sniper rifle with Schneider scope ($12,000-16,000) and an extremely rare engraved WWII “50th Birthday” presentation Vierling from “Die Fuhrer to the Group Commanders of the Supply Troops” 1943 ($10,000-30,000). Other European Military includes a beautiful “One-of-a-kind” serial number 0034 “1936 dated” Polish RADOM Model V15 35 presentation pistol with gold inlaid slide inscription. Japanese Military includes 3 Baby Nambu’s, rifles, and an outstanding, complete all matching WWII “Grandpa Nambu Pistol Rig” with matching magazine and super rare matching combination wooden shoulder stock/holster and leather shoulder strap with an estimate of $16,000-25,000.

German memorabilia is also a noteworthy section in this auction including a scarce Nazi general officers uniform set with jacket, hat, pants, belt and boots and a Nazi Knights Cross to the Iron Cross with presentation case and papers. A highly attractive Prussian Gardes Du Corps helmet holds a pre-auction estimate of $10,000-15,000.

There are over 250 Winchesters, spanning over 100 years of Winchester production from the Volcanic Pistol through the Model 70 bolt-action rifle. This auction has 8 Henry Rifles and 4 Volcanic pistols; a $95,000-140,000 estimate is on an exceptionally fine iron frame Henry lever action rifle and a scarce New Haven Arms Co., Volcanic lever action No. 2 Navy pistol is valued at $12,000-17,000. A magnificent, factory documented Winchester Model 1886 deluxe 50 express take down lever action rifle ($30,000-50,000) and an exceptional late production Winchester Model 1873 saddle ring carbine ($27,500-40,000) are just two of the many lever actions in this sale. Winchester sporting is strong with a scarce Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 super grade bolt action rifle in 220 Swift, with scope ($2,000-3,000) and an exceptional Winchester Model 21 Grand American 28 gauge double barrel shotgun ($20,000-30,000), one of 14 Model 21’s in this auction.

Sporting arms continue with a nice selection of shotguns, rifles and pistols. A $30,000-60,000 estimate is on an engraved Stephen Grant sidelock double barrel shotgun, and a Special Order Spectacular Engraved Gold Inlaid Exhibition Grade Two Barrel Set 16 and 20 Gauge A. H. Fox Double Barrel Shotgun is estimated at $30,000-50,000. A scarce Parker CHE Grade 16 Gauge Double Barrel Shotgun is expected to bring $5,000-8,000, 1 of 20 Parker shotguns in this sale. Sporting rifles are led by a cased extremely rare Jeffery double barrel rifle in 600 nitro express caliber ($25,000-45,000). Other manufactures are well represented including Browning, Krieghoff, A.H. Fox, Westley Richards and Holland & Holland.

The 1100 plus antique arms include Japanese Matchlocks, Wheellocks and Miquelets. Rarity and quality are exemplified in an extremely rare 16th century Dutch child’s Wheellock pistol with ivory stock and a magnificent ornate silver and gold inlaid Japanese matchlock estimated at $40,000-60,000 and $7,500-15,000 respectively. The December Sale will offer over 30 Kentucky rifles featuring a rare and exceptional “Transitional” Kentucky rifle with Kindig authenticity letter estimated at $20,000-40,000 and an extremely rare John Armstrong Golden Age Kentucky rifle carrying an estimate of $15,000-30,000.

Nearly 200 outstanding French, Belgian and English flintlock pistols featuring fancy engraved examples, cased dueling pistols and more! Estimated to bring $60,000-80,000, is a magnificent historical cased pair of Howdah pistols belonging to Daniel O’Connell “The Liberator” of Ireland. Also crossing the auction block is a pair of rare, 17th century, Dutch ivory-stocked Wender flintlock pistols with carved Turk’s head pommels ($22,500-40,000).

The December auction contains many fine derringers, pepperboxes and curio-type pistols including a pair of factory engraved Colt third model derringers with presentation case ($14,000-22,500) and engraved Remington type II over and under derringer pistol with case ($9,500-13,000).

In its entirety, over 2700 quality lots will be offered December 3rd, 4th & 5th by Rock Island Auction Company. There is something for nearly every level of collector and certainly many genres of firearms to choose from. The December auction is catalogued in a full-color two-volume catalogue, which can be ordered through the mail ($60) or viewed online at www.rockislandauction.com. Rock Island Auction Company is currently seeking consignments for their upcoming auctions.

About:
Rock Island Auction Company has been solely owned and operated by Patrick Hogan. This company was conceived on the idea that both the sellers and buyers should be completely informed and provided a professional venue for a true auction. After working with two other auction companies, Mr. Hogan began Rock Island Auction in 1993. Rock Island Auction Company has grown to be one of the top firearms auction houses in the nation. Under Mr. Hogan’s guidance the company has experienced growth each and every year; and he is the first to say it is his staff’s hard work and determination that have yielded such results. Visit: www.rockislandauction.com

Holloway & Naughton Handmade Guns 28g SBS R&S No-1

Sporting Classics Magazine

Columbia, SC --(AmmoLand.com)- The city of London is big. Really big.

Over seven million residents. Nearly 12,000 folks per square mile.

Like New York City, it’s wide-open, sizzling, rocking and rolling around-the-clock. On the other hand, Kathy and I are not big-city types.

Got a stoplight and a Wal-Mart? That’s big enough city for us.

After a couple of days visiting midtown gunshops, watching The Queen’s Cavalry, staring at Buckingham Palace, shopping at Harrod’s and dodging vehicles driving on the wrong side of the road (I was hit by a bicycle and was called several names), we were ready for some fresh scenery. So when Andrew Harvison, owner of Holloway & Naughton and Premier English Shotguns Ltd., invited us out to the English countryside for the day, we were happy to oblige.

Tuesday morning, after a quick bite at the Cartref House Bed and Breakfast in London, we grabbed a cab to Marylebone Station to catch the train out to High Wycombe about 30 miles northwest of the city. Along the way we watched the landscape change from urban sprawl to quaint hamlets, rolling pastures, forests, hedgerows and classic English-style farmhouses. This was more our cup of tea.

When the train stopped at High Wycombe station, our host greeted us warmly before driving us out to West Wycombe Park where his gun-finishing work is done.

Well-dressed, well-spoken and well-mannered, Andrew Harvison is the classic English gentleman, but with an even more relaxed demeanor. That’s attributable to his preference for the country life as opposed to the fast pace of “The Square Mile.” In fact, no portion of the Holloway and Naughton operation is located in London, but every gun is 100-percent English made. That was one of Harvison’s goals when he rekindled the firm’s trademark.

“We made up our mind to design our own products and then take them to the market,” he said as we rode through the countryside toward West Wycombe,” rather than jumping on the bandwagon of copying someone else’s design, or indeed, using somebody else’s components.

“We employ twelve people total,” Harvison added. “Our engineering base is in Leicestershire, where we employ four craftsmen who design and build components. The parts are then sent to outworkers. Barrels are put together with actions at one place, then on to stockers and engravers.

“The outworkers then send the components back to us, and after all the bearing surfaces and other fine details are inspected, the guns are assembled and we add the finishing touches. The entire process can take up to two years per gun, though we are seeking ways to shorten that time-frame.”

One of Andrew’s favorite workshops is the one tucked away at West Wycombe Park.

Westwood Hall, the home of Sir Edward Dashwood

“You’ll enjoy this,” he told us as we traveled the paved drive that climbs up toward the estate. From that vantage point we could take in the main manor house overlooking a serene lake and acres of verdant pasture.

“This is very, very famous,” Harvison said. “It’s Westwood Hall, the home of Sir Edward Dashwood. It’s been in the family since the fifteenth century. These people made a fortune out of tea and the old empire. This whole estate is just absolutely incredible.”

Pointing to the lake, Harvison explained that big parties held there during the 19th century became wild affairs.

“Attendees such as baronets and chancellors built small pirate ships, which they sailed around the lake,” he said. “But sailing was just part of the fun. They had live cannons and would actually fire cannonballs at one another . . . they held sea battles.”

Quartered in an 18th century church building a short walk from the main house is Harvison’s finishing shop.

Holloway & Naughton Handmade Ryder Cup Gun Base

Inside, the small building was crowded with tools, blueprints and work tables. The walls were decorated with various European mounts from the estate, including roebuck and the muntjac, a smallish deer with short, spiked horns and two-inch fangs.

As we watched a gunsmith at work, Harvison pointed out that the firm produced 12 guns last year – a fairly lofty number for such a small operation.

“We’re different,” he said, “because we do everything in a modular sense. Unlike the others, we start with a clean bit of paper on every design. From the beginning, we sat down and designed a gun, then we designed another one and another one and so on. No one has done it that way since before the Second World War.”

The Holloway and Naughton name precedes Harvison’s ownership by more than a century. In fact, the name has been highly regarded in British gunmaking since the early 19th century. Thomas Naughton started building guns in Birmingham in the mid-1800s and by 1888 he was working for James Carr on St. Mary’s Row. At that time, George Holloway, a purveyor of fine guns, was also interested in gunmaking and saw Naughton as the ideal craftsman.

In 1909 the name Holloway & Naughton was born. Prior to World War II about 90,000 Holloway & Naughton branded firearms were made, with many sold in the U.S., India, Australia as well as Britain.

During the war, production ceased as the workforce was called to war. The factory was annihilated in a bombing raid on Birmingham, and all plans, blueprints, machinery and records were lost. During the following 40 years only a few boxlock guns were made.

In the early 1990s Harvison resurrected not only the brand, but also the high standards set by the early Holloway & Naughton craftsmen. Today, with his unwavering attention to every detail, be it a shotgun or rifle, Andrew Harvison is being taken very seriously in the gun world.

Harvison developed a love of shooting at an early age and by 1967, he was the owner of his own shooting ground. Over the next 17 years he developed two of the foremost commercial shooting centers in the UK, which hosted many regional and national events. Harvison represented his country for nearly 20 years at sporting clays, skeet and trap competitions. He captained the England skeet team and collected a host of shooting honors, including the British Open Sporting Championship and English Skeet titles on two consecutive occasions.

After visiting West Wycombe, we drove out to the E.J. Churchill shooting ground. Just in time for lunch, we enjoyed a delicious meal of prawn baguettes served in the dining room. Afterward Harvison led us through the Churchill shop to a 12-gauge Holloway & Naughton Britannia displayed on the wall.

“Would you care to shoot some sporting clays with the Britannia?” he asked. I thought about it for roughly one-thousandth of a second before answering in the affirmative. Andrew broke the sidelock over-and-under, looked down the glistening barrels, then passed it to me. I studied the $65,000 shotgun in my hands before gently draping it over my arm. The stock and forearm were cut from the finest Turkish walnut. Smooth, handsome and shaped for shooting, they complemented the English scrolled action and top-grade barrels.

E.J. Churchill shooting ground.

Soon, Harvison, Max Jellicoe, one of Churchill’s many shooting instructors, Kathy and I were walking along lush green pathways to the course to give the Britannia a try. Jellicoe and Harvison had previously run several rounds through the gun, and had no doubts about its performance. They wanted to see how this American, who swore he was only an average shooter, would handle it.

The first thing I noticed was the Britannia’s balance and how it mounted perfectly to my shoulder and eye. With a few tips from the two instructors nearby, my shooting was, well, simply smashing! If I could borrow the Britannia, or pay for it in itsy-bitsy installments, I could finally be a hotshot back in the New World. But no deal.

Later, in the clubhouse, Harvison explained that the firm also produces the Britannia Field Model, which is similarly well-balanced and fast-handling with its slim stock and fore-end, light barrels and fine rib. The gun is engraved with traditional English style scroll.

Driving back to the station for our return to London, I asked Harvison what he considered his greatest achievement at Holloway & Naughton.

“To have designed every single part, every single component,” he replied . . . “to make something as beautiful as this from scratch, has been a monstrous achievement. To have accomplished this as an independent gunmaker is just a million to one.”

To find out more about Holloway & Naughton, visit www.hollowaynaughton.co.uk.

Holloway & Naughton Handmade Ryder Cup Eagle Gun

Sporting Classics Magazine Sept/Oct 2010

About:
Sporting Classics is the magazine for discovering the best in hunting and fishing worldwide. Every page is carefully crafted, through word and picture, to transport you on an unforgettable journey into the great outdoors.

Travel to the best hunting and fishing destinations. Relive the finest outdoor stories from yesteryear. Discover classic firearms and fishing tackle by the most renowned craftsmen. Gain valuable knowledge from columns written by top experts in their fields: gundogs, shotguns, fly fishing, rifles, art and more.

From great fiction to modern-day adventures, every article is complemented by exciting photography and masterful paintings. This isn’t just another “how to” outdoor magazine. Come. Join us! Visit: www.sportingclassics.com

NRA - ILA

Charlotte, NC --(Ammoland.com)- NRA-ILA grass roots news recently debuted a new and improved format for the “Grassroots News Minute” video!

To view the current video in its new format, please click above:

John Popp talks to Phil Schreier, Senior Curator at the National Firearms Museum – For more, visit www.nramuseum.org – NRA News

Read More on these topics:

• National Firearms Museum
• National Firearms Museum to Display Tom Selleck Guns

About:
Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America’s oldest civil rights and sportsmen’s group. Four million members strong, NRA continues its mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and to advocate enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation’s leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the military. Visit: www.nra.org

Woodlawn, Virginia --(Ammoland.com)- Another year is flying by. Autumn is here and winter is around the corner.

As for us, our year is winding down too. We only have 5 gun shows left this year.

If you have not had a chance to get to one this year listed below is the remaining dates.

Next year shows are available too. You can visit our website: www.olddominionshows.com for all our show information.

We hope to see you at one of our shows…

• Oct. 29-30-31 Charleston, WV National Guard Armory
• Nov. 6-7 Dale City, VA VFW Post 1503
• Nov. 12-13-14 Beckley, WV Raleigh Co. Civic Center (Coliseum)
• Dec. 18-19 Dale City, VA VFW Post 1503
• Dec. 17-18-19 Charleston, WV National Guard Armory

About:
Old Dominion Shows specializes in organizing large Gun/ Antiques Shows in Virginia and West Virginia for the general public. We take it upon ourselves to make sure that the events are well advertised to the public through our website, flyers, email, direct mail, and various publications such as magazines, brochures, etc. Visit: www.olddominionshows.com

American GI's with M1 Garands in Korea

TheCypressTimes

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- This discussion will – I hope - get the attention of American shooters, competitive marksmen and military rifle collectors – young and old.

Even if you’re not in this category, it should be of interest to concerned taxpayers – because the news is that South Korea (ROK) intends to sell off (and keep the proceeds from) several thousand old M1 military rifles.

These are probably the same rifles we loaned them 50 odd years ago – and we still own them. However, the Obama/Clinton STATE Department has reportedly denied the “import” of these rifles from Korea on the theory that they might “fall into the wrong hands” here in the US. The stories also report that the Korean plan was to sell them in bulk to importers who were then going to resell them in the US.

As I read the stories, however, I had a different reaction, at least to the idea of a “sale” of the rifles by the ROK and the “import” of them back into the US. Because of my background and experience in military “Security Assistance”, I thought that the rifles had most likely been transferred to the Koreans under the old “MAP” or “Military Assistance Program” that we had in the 60’s.

This was a “grant aid” program, which meant that they were not “sold” to the Koreans, and the ROK did not own them. They were loaned, and remained the property of the US government, specifically the US Army, who was the “logistic implementer” for the MAP program.

During the late 50’s, 60’s and 70’s we had several MAP recipient countries and Korea was one of the largest. MAP programs were phased down in the 70’s with the passage of the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) in 1978 and the creation of the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.

So, I started looking around for some historical “proof” of what I knew was probably the case with these rifles – it didn’t take me long to find an official US Army historical report that confirms how these rifles probably got to Korea in the first place, and under what circumstances. Here is the “smoking gun” – no pun intended:

“Due to increased North Korean aggression and infiltration, the supply of Army materiel for the prior and current year Korean military assistance program has been expedited, including a shipment of large numbers of individual weapons to arm the Republic of Korea Homeland Defense Reserve Forces.”

Source: “Department of the Army Historical Summary, FY 1969”. Page 4 of Chapter XI., “Military Assistance and Foreign Liaison”.

So, most likely, the “large numbers” of these rifles (described as “individual weapons”) were transferred to the ROK to use for their defense during the 60’s; and, because they most likely were and still are MAP property, the rifles remain the property of the US – unless they were subsequently sold or otherwise transferred to the ROK.

What should happen? Simple, because these rifles remain US property, they should be returned to the US Army, then sent on to the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) organization in Anniston, Alabama, for safety inspection, grading and carefully controlled sale to authorized collectors and American shooting clubs.

And, there is very little risk that rifles sold through the CMP would “fall into the wrong hands”. This is because, over the years, the CMP has disposed of thousands of MAP rifles returned from various other countries (Denmark, Greece, etc.) for the overall benefit of the shooting sports and the maintenance of civilian marksmanship skills. Also, while the CMP is not an official US government entity, it is a corporation created by the US Congress with a carefully drawn charter, professional management and oversight by a distinguished Board of Directors.

So, one has to ask themselves why the transaction is being characterized (by the STATE Department) as a “sale” and “import” in the first place?

Easy: If the operative act is described as the purchase of the rifles by private arms dealers for “import” into the US, then the STATE Department (and the ATF) might have jurisdiction to regulate the transaction and even to “deny” the import as they might for any other firearms import.

Can you see how this could be part of an anti-gun scam?

The other part is probably even more political: There is no chance – during the Obama Administration – that DOD or the Army is going to request officially that these rifles be returned.

If the goal of anti-gun zealots in the Obama Administration is to keep these rifles – some even classified as antiques – out of the US any way they can, then this scam needs to be broken up before any of the operative parts are implemented.

How? The Congress may have to direct the President or Secretary of State to inform the ROK that they cannot sell these rifles unless they show they own them. The next step is to generate the requisite political pressure (via Public Law and otherwise) on the administration to request the return of the MAP rifles from the ROK, so that the US Army can send them on to the CMP for grading and careful disposition to shooting clubs and collectors.

This is what should happen if the Obama Administration does what they should responsibly do: Rather than describing the operative transaction as an “import”, it most likely is the simple return of loaned military property – paid for long ago by patriotic Americans.

Finally, see for yourself the nature and quality of the CMP organization – and how carefully and responsibly it carries out its mandate: Go to www.odcmp.com and read the charter, look at the annual report and learn how they carry out their important mandate. And, if you qualify, go ahead and buy a historically significant US military rifle – and shoot it at your club.

Daniel Gallington, a national security and intelligence policy consultant, is a Senior Fellow and Member of the Board of Regents at the Potomac Institute for Policy Studies in Arlington, Va.

About Cypress Times:
TheCypressTimes is a 100% interactive daily online multimedia newspaper that works to bring the word of God to the world, while also serving as a connection point between believers and non-believers, and Faith-based organizations of all types who call Christ Lord and Savior. Visit: www.thecypresstimes.com

Nagant Model 1895 Revolver

FirearmsTruth.com

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- One of the most unique vintage military revolvers is known for its use in Russia, but yet it was in fact a Belgian designed firearm.

This was the Model 1895 Nagant revolver, which was in actuality developed in 1894 by Emile and Leon Nagant, two Belgian gun designers, who had previous experience with the Russian arms industry.

Their development of the revolver coincided with the Imperial Russian Army’s need for a new sidearm, which the firm of Fabrique d’armes Emile et Leon Nagant designed and brought to production. The Nagant brothers were already well known at the Russian Court as they had previously helped design the now infamous Mosin-Nagant Model 1892 rifle.

Nagant 7.62x38 Ammunition

What makes this firearm so unique is that unlike other revolvers, it features a cylinder that moves forward before the hammer strikes the round, thus closing the cap from the cylinder to the barrel. Additionally, the Nagant M1895 further utilized a specially designed cartridge with a long case that featured a tapered mouth that keeps the bullet seated inside the case below the cartridge case rim. This was the 7.62x38mmR, which is also known today as the 7.62mm Nagant less commonly as the Cartridge, Type R. Together the features of the gun’s design along with the bullet configuration prevent gas leakage between the cylinder and the barrel, making this one of the only revolvers that could effectively be used with a silencer – although that wasn’t really a consideration when it was developed. To the designers, the deeply seated bullet within the cartridge of the case allowed for the velocity of the bullet to be increased by 50 to 150 feet per second.

Additionally, at the time however the caliber was chosen as a way to simplify the tooling used in barrel making and manufacture of projectiles. The drawback of this cylinder design is that the revolver has a rather heavy pull of 13 pound wit the single action trigger and a 20 pound double action trigger pull. The other downside is that the Nagant M1895 can be a difficult gun to reload, with one cartridge at a time being loaded and then extracted manually. This is obviously not practical in combat situations.

The Nagant M1895 was produced throughout World War I in both single-action and double-action versions, and this has come to be known as “private’s” or “enlisted” models and “officer’s models” respectively. However, whether this is fully accurate has yet to be absolutely determined. What is a known fact is that except for rare examples for target competition and similar uses, production of the single action variety ended in 1918. Likewise many single- action revolvers were converted to double action, and as a result today single-action examples are extremely rare.

Furthermore, while the Nagant M1895 Revolver was in fact designed for the Czar’s army, it did remain in use through the Russian Revolution and Civil War, and was utilized by the Soviets. Production, which had originally begun in Belgium and moved to Russia long before the outbreak of the First World War, continued after the Soviets took power. The gun served throughout the world and was used in a variety of wars, from the Chinese Civil War to the Korean War and even limited use in Vietnam. The “silencer” models were also utilized during the Second World War by scout and reconnaissance troops, and during the Cold War these silent versions found clandestine uses, as well as use in the aforementioned conflict in South East Asia.

NKVD Soliders Firing Nagant Revolvers

The iconic image of the revolver should also be familiar to film buffs – and the Nagant M1895 was recently seen in the latest Sherlock Holmes movie starring Robert Downey Jr. (the character is trying to create a silencer), while a Belgian made version served as a sidearm of choice for Young Indiana Jones. The infamous NKVD soldiers depicted in the film Enemy at the Gates fire away at deserting troops with the revolvers as well.

Today the gun is not uncommon, although those available without the import stamps can be quite rare. And while it may sound like it features a complex design, the truth is far from it. It is a reliable and simple to use gun that might be Belgian designed but it is as sturdy as a Russian Cossack. While not prone to jamming, when all else failed one could take the advice of an Imperial Russian officer, who reportedly stated that if the Nagant failed to fire, “you could fix it with a hammer” or likewise use it as one!

Peter Suciu is executive editor of FirearmsTruth.com, a website that tracks and monitors media bias against guns and our Second Amendment rights. Visit: FirearmsTruth.com

Johnson M1941 Semi-Automatic Rifle with original spike bayonet and leather sheath. The 10-round rotary magazine could be quickly reloaded using two clips of .30 Caliber M2 Ball ammunition.

FirearmsTruth.com

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- The iconic M1 Garand isn’t the only semi-automatic rifle used by combat troops in WWII.

Marine officer Melvin Johnson began work on what came to be known as the Johnson M1941 in 1935.

At the time, the army was convinced that the M1 was the rifle of the future and some have speculated that when Johnson’s rifle was tested against the M1, the deck was stacked against him. But the Marine Corp wasn’t convinced by the Army’s praise for the M1.

By 1940, a controversy grew between those who supported the M1 Garand and the Johnson Rifle. The press got involved and in February of 1940 the Washington Evening Star ran a series of articles entitled, “Battle Efficiency of Garand Rifle Provokes Controversy.” At the same time, the Rifleman published some articles that cast the Johnson Rifle in a favorable light. Life magazine called the Garand-Johnson battle “one of the greatest military squabbles in U.S. history.”

In the end, the Garand won out. Both rifles fired the same .30-06 cartridge and performed similarly in extensive testing. The Johnson has the advantage of having a 10 round built-in cylindrical magazine, compared to the Garand’s 8 round magazine. But the Johnson used the energy from recoil to eject and insert a new round. As the bullet and propellant gases moved down the barrel, they imparted a force on the bolt head that was locked to the barrel. The barrel, together with the bolt, moved a short distance rearward until the bullet left and the barrel and pressure in the bore had dropped to a safe level. When a standard bayonet was attached, the rifle became unbalanced and could easily malfunction. Because of this, and the fact that the M1 was already in production, Johnson’s design was rejected.

But he didn’t give up. By early 1941 he had completed refinements to the rifle and advertised the M1941 to other countries. The Netherlands orderd 70,000 of Johnson’s rifles to be used by troops defending the Dutch East Indies. The Japanese had their own plans for the East Indies and only a few thousand were delivered to the Dutch government in exile.

With America’s entry into WWII, the entire military was woefully short of weapons. At the time, the main battle rifle for the Marine Corp was the bolt-action Springfield. Most of the M1 Garands in stock were being procured by the Army, so the Corp looked to the Johnson to fill the gap. The newly formed Marine First Parachute Battalion was supplied with enough Johnson rifles to equip the unit prior to its deployment to the Solomons in 1942. As M1s became available, the Johnson was rotated out of active service.

The Office of Strategic Service used the Johnson in some clandestine mission into enemy territory. It has also been reported that the famous First Special Service Force, the ‘Devil’s Brigade’, used the Johnson rifle. And while the Johnson was rotated out of service in the U.S. military as quickly as possible, the M1941 did see action in the 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion.

Approximately 70,000 M1941’s were produced during WWII. After the war, Johnsons were sold to civilians and ads for them ran until the mid-1960s when supply finally ran out.

Identifying an original M1941 is easy. The top of the receiver of the M1941 Johnson was marked:

• Cal. 30-06 Semi-Auto
• Johnson Automatics
• Model of 1941
• Made in Providence, R.I., U.S.A.
• Serial #

The right of the receiver was marked “Cranston Arms Co.” enclosed in a triangle. The Johnson rifles were serially numbered in blocks up to 10,000. The first block ran from 1 to 10,000. The second block had a B prefix, the third a C and son on. So, a Johnson rifle with the serial number B3345 was the 13,345th rifle produced. Records don’t indicate which batch of rifles were issued to the Marine Corp.

1. Collectors who are interested in getting a M1941 Johnson in original military configuration should look at six things:
2. All exterior metal surfaces are parkerized except for the bright finished bolt.
3. The front of the barrel collar was marked “30-06” in the 12 o’clock position and “41” in the six o’clock position. There were some Johnson barrels made in .270 and 7mm caliber, but these were not used in the U.S. military service.
4. The buttplate was checkered metal with no recoil pad
5. The adjustable rear site was graduated for meters, not yards.
6. The stock was plain and unadorned with no checkering or other embellishments.
7. The barrel should have a bayonet lug.

John Kullman is managing editor of FirearmsTruth.com, a website that tracks and monitors media bias against guns and our Second Amendment rights. Visit: FirearmsTruth.com

FirearmsTruth.com

Michigan --(Ammoland.com)- While much of the mainstream media ignored the Korean M1 story, there is still hope for collectors that the rifles, which were blocked for importation to the United States, could still return home.

Rep. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Rep. Joe Donnelly (D-IN) have sponsored a bill “to amend the Arms Export Control Act to provide that certain firearms listed as curios or relics may be imported into the United States by a licensed importer without obtaining authorization from the Department of State or the Department of Defense, and for other purposes.”

In a statement Rep. Lummins said:

“The State Department does not have the authority to deny legal firearms to law-abiding citizens. These
firearms have historical value, are legal, and their importation is already highly regulated by the Justice
Department.

There is no basis for State Department involvement. This is not about diplomacy or foreign policy — this is a domestic issue and a Second Amendment issue.” In a statement Rep. Donnelly said:

“The right of law-abiding American citizens to import these historical firearms should not be complicated with unnecessary over-regulation. This common-sense change simply lets the Justice Department do its job and removes the State Department from the process.”

The bill was introduced on September 29, 2010, and referred to committee, which is the first step in the
legislative process. We’ll be sure to watch for updates on this bill.

H.R. 6240 Progress at GovTrack
Rep. Cynthia Lummis Official Comments

Peter Suciu is executive editor of FirearmsTruth.com, a website that tracks and monitors media bias against guns and our Second Amendment rights. Visit: FirearmsTruth.com

AmmoLand Gun News

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- Today, U.S. Representatives Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Joe Donnelly (D-IN) introduced H.R. 6240, the Collectable Firearms Protection Act.

The bill would prevent the State Department from interfering with the legal importation of surplus collectable firearms from South Korea that were originally made in the U.S.

“The State Department does not have the authority to deny legal firearms to law-abiding citizens. These firearms have historical value, are legal, and their importation is already highly regulated by the Justice Department. There is no basis for State Department involvement. This is not about diplomacy or foreign policy — this is a domestic issue and a Second Amendment issue,” Lummis said.

“The right of law-abiding American citizens to import these historical firearms should not be complicated with unnecessary over-regulation,” said Donnelly.

“This common-sense change simply lets the Justice Department do its job and removes the State Department from the process.”

Background:
Last year, the administration approved the importation and sale of collectible, American-made M1 Garand rifles and M1 carbines from South Korea. However, the administration reversed itself early this year, deciding instead to prevent these rifles – legal to make and purchase in the United States – from entering the country.

The State Department’s actions undermine the will of Congress, which has expressly authorized these types of transactions in the Arms Control Export Act. H.R. 6240 would remove jurisdiction by the State Department and the Department of Defense over these imports, which are already regulated by the Justice Department through the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (BATFE). These collectable firearms would still be treated like any other modern, legal firearm, including BATFE licensing requirements, record keeping requirements, and background checks prior to retail sales.