Slide Fire

Moran, TX --(Ammoland.com)- Slide Fire Solutions, LP today announced that the United States Patent Office has issued a Notice of Allowance concerning its patent application “Method of Shooting a Semi-Automatic Firearm.”

The allowed patent claims will give Slide Fire exclusive rights to make and sell gun stocks that enable a shooter to repetitively discharge a firearm incorporating Slide Fire’s sliding stock technology.

“We are thrilled that the patent office has agreed that our invention deserves patent protection,” said the inventor of the Slide Fire gun stock, Jeremiah Cottle.

“We have several other patents pending based on the same technology, both in the United States and internationally. We are optimistic that the patent office will issue patents on those applications as well.” Cottle is the president Slide Fire Solutions.

About Slide Fire Solutions:
Slide Fire Solutions is a privately held company based in Moran, Texas and owns all rights in its ground breaking “slide stock” technology. Building on principles of “bump firing,” Slide Fire’s invention allows a shooter to discharge a firearm such as an AR-15 or AK-47 as quickly as desired, without springs and without automatically functioning mechanical parts. The exclusive design offers many hours of entertainment for recreational shooters. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms has concluded that the Slide Fire device is not regulated as a firearm under the Gun Control Act or the National Firearms Act.

For more information, please visit www.slidefire.com.

Stoeger Limited Edition P-350 Turkey Gun

Stoeger Firearms

ACCOKEEK, MD --(Ammoland.com)- The Stoeger P-350 pump action shotgun is now available in a turkey gun configuration featuring Stoeger’s new and improved SteadyGrip stock.

This newly designed stock allows a steadier positive grip for optimum shooting control. This shotgun features a 20-inch cantilevered barrel that will easily accommodate accessory optics and will be available in a “Limited Edition” only.

An extended extra-full turkey choke comes standard with the gun, while extra accessory chokes are available online or through local authorized dealers. Fitting an open-choke constriction allows this turkey gun to also fire slug ammunition making it suitable as a fall-season deer shotgun.

The reliable Stoeger P-350 pump-action shotgun is designed to fire any 12-gauge ammunition, from light target loads to 3½-inch magnums. The fore-end is ergonomically designed to fit the hand comfortably with distinct ridges that provide a positive gripping surface with or without gloves and regardless of temperature or weather conditions. An optional 13-ounce, mercury-filled recoil reducer tames the kick of heavy ammunition.

“Stoeger’s P-350 offers turkey hunters amazing value for price,” said Stephen McKelvain, Benelli USA’s VP Marketing & Communications. “Not only does this serve as an ideal gun for turkeys but load it with slug ammo and you’re ready for deer.”

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Gauge: 12-Gauge
• Barrel Length: 20”
• Sights: Cantilever mount
• Finish: Realtree APG
• Stock Material: Synthetic, SteadyGrip
• Average Weight: 6.2 lbs.
• Overall Length: 41.75”
• Length of Pull: 14⅜”
• Drop at heel: 2”
• Drop at Comb: 1⅜”
• MSRP: $479

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

Machine Guns Vegas Screenshot

Machine Guns Vegas

LAS VEGAS --(Ammoland.com)- Machine Guns Vegas (MGV) is now accepting reservations for its high-energy firearm experiences with new themed packages available at its opening in early 2012.

The packages will allow guests test out the guns used by the United States’ SEAL Team Six, make their “Call of Duty”gaming a reality, become a Femme Fatale, choose allies in the Mafia Experience, go back in time with WWII World at War and much more.

To make reservations, MGV has launched a new website (www.machinegunsvegas.com) to streamline the process so gun enthusiasts or firearm first-timers can browse the different firearms, ammunition and packages available to plan their desired experience.

Packages include:

• The Compound – For the ultimate in VIP experiences, this package allows guests to showcase their skills on 16 different firearms while enjoying the world’s first “Gun Lounge”; an ultra-discreet VIP experience for groups featuring two completely private firing lanes, a private waiting lounge with plush furniture, large plasma TVs, iMac, complimentary refreshments and a separate entrance. Guests will experience 50 rounds per firearm with a M60 and five different handguns of their choosing as well as 125 rounds each on five different semi-automatic and five different full automatics. Package price: $699
• Full Auto – Shooters will go full force with this fully automatic machine gun package. Package includes eight different machine guns of the customer’s preference and 50 rounds of each a squad automatic weapon (SAW) and a M60. Package price: $399
• World at War – The firearms of WWII laid the foundation for many of the modern weapon designs we see today. For this package, you are issued some of the most popular firearms used during World War II including the 1911 pistol, a MP 40 submachine gun and the M3 submachine ‘Grease Gun.’ Package price: $119.95
• The Mafia Experience – The weapons of choice for Mobsters have ranged from the Thompson submachine gun during the Prohibition to shotguns and suppressed pistols favored by famous hit men. This package allows guests to experience the .22 Suppressor, rounds with the infamous Thompson submachine gun and shotguns. Package price: $99.95
• Femme Fatale – Femme Fatale (French for “deadly woman”) is designed for first-time female shooters. Ladies will have the chance to show off their skills with an UZI fully automatic machine gun and choose whichever handgun they desire to complete their experience. Package price: $89.95
• SEAL Team VI – This is the chance to experience the firearms used by SEAL Team Six in the covert operation that took out Osama bin Laden. Guests are issued 20 rounds with a .22 Suppressor, the HK MR556 rifle and the choice of a squad automatic weapon (SAW) or a M60 machine gun. Package price: $129.50; with M60 upgrade: $159.95
• Call of Duty – This package channels the inner gamers, designed to bring the popular “Call of Duty” videogame to life using some of its most popular guns including the Colt M4, FN Scar assault rifle, an AK47 and Beretta M9. Package price: $159.95
• Hand Cannons – For the handgun enthusiast, the hand-cannon package allows guests to shoot some of MGV’s favorite handguns including five rounds on each the Raging Judge, the Desert Eagle .50, .44 Magnum Revolvers plus 20 more rounds of the customer’s choosing. Package price: $89.95
• SAS – Special Air Service (SAS) is a corps of the British Army tasked with special operations in time of war and primarily counter-terrorism in peacetime. Package features use of the C8 assault rifle, M4 short barrel, the Heckler & Koch MP5 submachine gun and the SIG P226 full-sized pistol. Package price: $159.95

All packages include targets and a MGV t-shirt; additional packages can be found at www.machinegunsvegas.com. Also, to book outdoor shoots and weddings call 1-800-SHOOT.

About Machine Guns Vegas
The plush, high-energy appeal of a Las Vegas ultra lounge meets the thrill of a high-tech firearms experience when Machine Gun Vegas (MGV) opens its doors early 2012. The first-of-its-kind attraction will offer guests the chance to shoot a variety of firearms in a safe, contemporary atmosphere. No alcohol will be served at Machine Guns Vegas. Located just minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, the 10,000-square-foot facility will feature 16 shooting lanes where guests can securely test their skills with a vast selection of machine guns, handguns and other exotic firearms. MGV will have the world’s first “Gun Lounge” an ultra-discreet experience. Machine Guns Vegas is located at 3501 Aldebaran Avenue, and will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, visit machinegunsvegas.com. Follow MGV on Twitter @VegasOnFullAuto, or become a Facebook fan at facebook.com/machinegunsvegas.

Arsenal’s SGL12 Semi-Auto Saiga 12-Gauge Shotgun

National Rifle Association

FAIRFAX, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- This year, NRA-ILA worked with pro-gun legislators to include a provision in the 2012 Commerce, Justice and Science appropriations legislation to help prohibit the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives from banning the importation of shotguns that are currently legally imported.

That legislation was a part of a consolidated appropriations bill that Congress passed to fund major portions of the federal government for the remainder of fiscal year 2012.

Unfortunately, some inaccurate reports have claimed that this provision would repeal the “sporting purposes” test for importation of firearms.

While NRA supports repeal of the “sporting purposes” test, the provision included in the recently enacted bill does not achieve this goal.

The provision supported by NRA-ILA was prompted by a recent BATFE “study” that sought to reinterpret the “sporting purposes” test in a manner that would have banned the import of certain shotguns that are currently legal to import.

The new provision prevents, at least in the short term, the expansion of any shotgun bans under the “sporting purpose” language, thus preserving the status quo.

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

Kahr P380 Pistol Black

Virginia Citizens Defense League

Covington VA --(Ammoland.com)- This is the first of a series of three handgun reviews based on some guns that I purchased most recently. (Your mileage could vary, of course.)

My previous experiences with pocket .380 ACP handguns was not good in the recoil category. After purchasing a Kel-tec .380 some years ago, I quickly realized that to break in that gun without my trigger finger killing me due to the sharp snap of that very light and small handgun, I would need the help of others.

I went to the range with 150 rounds of ammo and would tell other shooters, “Hey – this is my new Kel-tec .380 – want to try it out?” Then I would provide them with as much ammo as they wanted and would let THEM deal with the snappy recoil! After an hour or so my gun was broken in and, just as importantly, I was none the worse for wear.

So when I went to the range with my brand new Kahr P380, I brought along my 150 rounds of ammo and was prepared to let everyone at the range “try” my gun. I figured I would fire a few shots just to see how bad it was going to be for everyone else.

BAM! BAM! BAM!
Much to my total surprise, although the gun was extremely light and small, the recoil was totally tamed – tamed to the point that the gun was actually FUN TO SHOOT! I selfishly put all 150 rounds through the gun without sharing it. And I could have kept going had I brought more ammunition!

The accuracy was superb and, unlike many other small .380s, the gun had real sights on it. You can even get night sights for it.

Kahr P380 Handgun

I own quite a few Kahrs and I know that the polymer ones need a few hundred rounds to break them in due to tight tolerances. The P380 was no exception. There were occasional jams during the break-in period, but those are but faint memories now. During the break-in, the Kahr seemed to have a preference for Magtech ammo.

The P380 works exactly like its bigger brothers, including the slide locking back on the last shot, a slide release, a drop safety, a fully supported chamber, and a Browning-type lockup. Oh, and it has a fantastic trigger, especially for a gun that size. Magazine capacity is 6 + 1.

The gun disappears in my pocket and is so light I can easily forget that I am carrying it. I don’t carry a .380 very often, except when either I must carry light and/or extremely discretely or if I want to carry a backup gun. The Kahr P380 is my clear choice for such times.

Here is a link to the Kahr web page for the P380: www.kahr.com/Pistols/Kahr-P380.asp

Up next: Sig-Sauer P250

About:
Virginia Citizens Defense League, Inc. (VCDL). VCDL is an all-volunteer, non-partisan grassroots organization dedicated to defending the human rights of all Virginians. The Right to Keep and Bear Arms is a fundamental human right. Visit: www.vcdl.org

National Rifle Association

FAIRFAX, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- After weeks of stonewalling by the Department of Justice, a clearer picture of what its top officials knew about BATFE’s Operation Fast and Furious, and when they knew it, is slowly beginning to emerge.

On Tuesday, Lanny Breuer, Assistant Attorney General for the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division, testified before the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Terrorism about his knowledge of BATFE’s gunwalking operations, and his support for gun control.

In April 2010, Breuer says, he knew that BATFE agents had allowed hundreds of guns to be illegally purchased and smuggled to Mexican drug cartels in 2006 and 2007 as part of Wide Receiver, a Tucson-based operation similar to Fast and Furious, which was hatched out of Phoenix.

Nevertheless, nearly a year later, when BATFE was accused of allowing guns to walk in Fast and Furious, Breuer suggested that he was convinced to not consider the allegations seriously.

“I recall that both the leadership of ATF and the leadership of the United States Attorney’s Offices in Arizona . . . were adamant about the fact that [gunwalking] was not, in fact, a condoned practice,” Breuer said. And as noted last week by the New York Times, last February the Justice Department sent a letter to Congress stating

“A.T.F. makes every effort to interdict weapons that have been purchased illegally and prevent their transport into Mexico.”

Seeming to corroborate the 2007 date Breuer mentioned, the Associated Press reported today that a briefing paper prepared in 2007 for then-Attorney General Michael Mukasey “outlined failed attempts by federal agents to track illicitly purchased guns across the border into Mexico.” But why Breuer did not give more attention to the gunwalking claims made against Fast and Furious is as unclear to him as to the rest of the country. “I regret that in April of 2010 that I did not draw the connection between Wide Receiver and Fast and Furious,” Breuer said. “Moreover, I regret that even earlier this year, I didn’t draw that connection.”

When it became Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s turn to question Breuer, the zealous anti-gun crusader from California tried to shift the focus of the hearings from battling international crime to battling those of us who support the Second Amendment.

The exchange between the two gun control supporters speaks for itself.

Feinstein: Mr. Breuer, in June of this year, I received a letter from the ATF. . . stating that 29,284 firearms [were] recovered in Mexico in ’09 and 2010, and submitted to the ATF Tracing Center. With those weapons, 20,504, or 70 percent, were United States sourced. . . . Is it fair to say that 70 percent of the firearms showing up in Mexico are from the United States?

Breuer: Thank you, Senator, for the question, and for your leadership on this issue. . . . Of the 94,000 weapons that have been recovered in Mexico, 64,000 of those are traced to the United States. We have to do something to prevent criminals from getting those guns, Senator. . . .

Feinstein: . . . .“[W]e have very lax laws when it comes to guns. . . . And so the question comes, do you believe that if there were some form of registration when you purchase these firearms that that would make a difference?

Breuer: I do, Senator. . . . Today, Senator, we are not even permitted to have ATF receive reports about multiple sales of long guns, of any kind of semiautomatic weapon or the like. . . . Very few hunters in the United States or sports people and law-abiding people really need to have semiautomatic weapons or long guns. . . .”

Senator Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), who has been co-leading Congress’ investigation of Fast and Furious with Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.), disagreed with Feinstein’s and Breuer’s claim that 70 percent of guns seized in Mexico come from the United States.

“I released a report that I would like to ask be made a part of the record,” Senator Grassley said. “It refutes the numbers referenced early that 70 percent of the guns in Mexico came from the U.S. The answer isn’t to clamp down on law abiding citizens or gun dealers.”

While Mr. Breuer’s testimony shined a glimmer of light on who knew what and when they knew it, about the BATFE’s most disastrous operation since the 1993 Waco raid, it obviously did not, nor was it intended to, lead Congress or the American people to a proper understanding of how many firearms have been smuggled to Mexico without BATFE’s help, since the Mexican drug cartels began waging war on their country.

As has already been reported, many of the “guns traced to the U.S.” from Mexico were seized in that country many years ago, but have been only recently submitted for tracing at the urging of the BATFE. And to complicate things further, Mexican officials have acquiesced to BATFE’s urgings by submitting multiple trace requests on single 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

Remington Versa Max Autoloading Shotguns

Remington Arms Company

Madison, NC --(Ammoland.com)- Remington Arms Company proudly invites shooters to a special hands-on “test drive” of the VERSA MAX autoloading shotgun at nearly 30 ranges and events across the country.

Starting today, The VERSA MAX CHALLENGE lets shooters get up close and personal with the new standard for reliability in autoloading shotguns at the 2011 Grand American World Trapshooting Championships. Attendees should look for the VERSA MAX truck at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta, Illinois.

Remington staff will be on hand at the Grand American 5-Stand range through Tuesday, August 9, 2011 with VERSA MAX 26-inch and 28-inch black synthetic models, 28-inch Mossy Oak Duck Blind camouflaged versions and 26-inch Realtree AP camouflaged versions ready to assist you. Remington will provide shotshells for the challenge.

We invite you to try fist-hand the new pinnacle of autoloading shotgun technology – the Remington VERSA MAX.

For a full list of VERSA MAX Challenge events and dates, please visit www.remington.com for further details.

About the VERSA MAX
The new Remington VERSA MAX is the new standard for reliability in autoloading shotguns; the VERSA MAX shatters convention and all previous benchmarks for reliability with an action unlike any that have come before it. Proven in the field and in extreme tests of endurance with thousands of test rounds, it cycles all 12-gauge loads with ultimate consistency, softer recoil and less maintenance than you’ve ever experienced.

At the heart of VERSA MAX is the patented VersaPort gas piston system; an extremely-reliable, semi-automatic operating system consisting of seven gas ports and two gas pistons for enhanced load versatility, while softening recoil and reducing maintenance. With the design of the patented gas system, the VERSA MAX reduces recoil to that of a 20 gauge. The VersaPort gas system self-regulates gas pressure based on the length of the shell, for flawless cycling no matter the load. Additionally with its self-cleaning gas piston system, overall maintenance time and effort is greatly reduced. With fewer parts than conventional gas systems, not only is cleaning easier but there are fewer parts to maintain. From the lightest 2 -inch target loads to the heaviest 3 -inch magnums, the VERSA MAX cycles with ultimate consistency, softer recoil and less maintenance than ever experienced before.

About Remington Arms Company, LLC.
Remington Arms Company, Inc., headquartered in Madison, N.C., designs, produces and sells sporting goods products for the hunting and shooting sports markets, as well as solutions to the military, government and law enforcement markets. Founded in 1816 in upstate New York, the Company is one of the nation’s oldest continuously operating manufacturers. Remington is the only U.S. manufacturer of both firearms and ammunition products and one of the largest domestic producers of shotguns and rifles. The Company distributes its products throughout the U.S. and in over 55 foreign countries. More information about the Company can be found at www.remington.com.

Mossy Oak Duck Blind is a registered trademark of Haas Outdoors, Inc. Realtree AP is a registered trademark of Jordan Outdoor Enterprises, Ltd.

FFLGuard

New York City, NY --(Ammoland.com)- FFLGuard, a cooperative legal program offered to Federal Firearms Licensees by The Chiafullo Group, LLP (“the Group”), a law firm based in New Jersey, provides cost-effective and specialized legal counsel to independent gun retailers in the event of a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco , Firearms and Explosives (“BATFE”) compliance inspection, or in defense of civil litigation aimed at scrutinizing the retailer’s business practices. FFLGuard has experienced increased demand as the program has caught the attention of clients across the nation who face similar legal obstacles in their marketplaces.

Christopher Chiafullo, attorney and founder of the FFLGuard program, currently serves as its National Coordinating Counsel and Director of Special Operations. Chiafullo works with subject matter experts and firearms-specific counsel to develop FFLGuard’s “Law Plus Guidelines” and deliver the unique legal program nationwide, affording cost-effective compliance solutions to over 200 FFL’s in 36 states. Chiafullo recently asked attorney David Goldman, to join the FFLGuard program. He joins a growing and impressive group of experts in FFLGuard’s Special Operations Branch.

Mr. Goldman, founder of the Apple Law Firm of Jacksonville, FL, will provide his National Firearms Act (“NFA”) Trust expertise to the FFLGuard program. Specifically, FFLGuard will refer clients (and their retail customers) to Mr. Goldman and his network of Gun Trust Lawyers to utilize his expertise developing Gun Trusts for NFA firearms and collectors of firearms in every state where FFLGuard has clients.

“NFA Trusts,” “Firearms Trusts,” “Title II Trusts,” and “Class 3 Trusts” are all a specific type of legal instrument called “Revocable Living Trusts,” that deal with the unique issues of owning,transferring, and possessing Title II firearms (silencers, short barrel rifles and shotguns, AOWs and machine guns).

When individuals purchase a Title II firearm sold by a Dealer with a Class 3 SOT, the Chief Law Enforcement Officer of the city or county where the individual resides is required to sign a document called a Form 4. This sometimes leads to delay or disappointment. Yet individuals can legally purchase and own a Title II firearms through a NFA Trust, wherein the Trust (not the individual) actually purchases and holds title to the restricted firearm or gun.

The NFA trust is not required to submit fingerprints nor seek the approval of the local chief of police. Instead the federal government will verify and investigate the application. Many individuals prefer the NFA Trust over creating a corporation or LLC to do the same thing because the NFA Trust is less expensive to operate, deals with issues of incapacity and death, and provides greater privacy as to who owns the Class 3 firearms.

“The ability to assist current and prospective FFLGuard clients with access to Mr. Goldman and his Gun Trust Lawyers will help our clients sell more products under their Class III License to qualified retail customers, while still keeping in line with our ‘Law Plus Guideline’ philosophy,” states Chiafullo. “We understand that the right to bear arms is a constitutional right that is always ‘under fire’ by current state and federal laws. Giving our FFLGuard clients better legal tools to comply with state and federal laws is part of our obligation to them, and aligning with David [Goldman] adds the bonus feature of giving our clients a ‘value-added’ service they can share with their customers.” Chiafullo added, “[if] both our clients and their customers have better access to and understanding of NFA Trusts, then it’s a win- win-win for the industry, FFLGuard, and the Title II weapon-buying public.”

“This is the next step for our program as we continue to provide superior legal counsel to the independent firearms retailer,” Chiafullo said.

If retailers are interested in joining FFLGuard or would like additional information on the FFLGuard program, please visit www.fflguard.com or call 1-888-FFL-GRD1 (1-888-335-4731). Also, anyone can follow Mr. Chiafullo on Twitter: @FFLGuard.

Steyr Col. Jeff Cooper’s Signature Gray Scout Rifle

Steyr Arms

TRUSSVILLE, Alabama --(Ammoland.com)- Due to overwhelming customer demand, Steyr Arms is now offering its legendary Scout rifle with the original gray stock.

Reintroduced at the 2010 NRA Annual Meetings as part of the limited Jeff Cooper Scout Commemorative Package, the gray-stocked Scout sparked a renaissance in Lt. Col. Jeff Cooper’s all-purpose scout-rifle concept that redefined the “one man operating alone” survival rifle more than a decade ago.

And now, Steyr Arms is pleased to announce that its Scout rifle is once again available with a gray stock in a rifle-only configuration.

With the rage over modern sporting rifles—or “mouse-guns” in Col. Cooper vernacular—and their increasingly burdensome array of accessories waning, common sense has seemingly returned to the American rifleman, as the Colonel’s lightweight, .308-caliber bolt-action, rabbits-to-elk, bug-out Steyr Scout rifle has eclipsed its initial sales figures.

It’s become so popular within the last 13 months that yet another company has made an attempt to emulate Col. Cooper’s intent. While Steyr heartily welcomes another horse to the race, the fact still stands that Col. Cooper joined forces with only one company when he sought to create a production Scout rifle. That company was Steyr Mannlicher, and the light, quick and accurate rifle that resulted after nearly a decade of collaboration between Steyr and Col. Cooper, was the Steyr Scout.

The gray-stocked Steyr Scout may well have been ahead of its time during its introduction in 1998. Several low-powered, long-eye-relief scopes are still available today, but the market is now teeming with one-power reflex sights that can be forward-mounted to provide the user with accurate fire and the ability to operate with both eyes open in order to immediately detect flanking dangers. Backup “ghost-ring” iron sights that rest snugly within the Steyr Scout’s profile can be deployed within seconds should the optics fail.

Colonel Cooper felt the 1903 Springfield’s magazine cutoff was a “superior device” to anything then produced, but Steyr filled Colonel’s prescription from a different direction with the incorporation of a newly designed two-position magazine system that allowed the rifle to be fed singly with the five-round magazine in a lowered position. The magazine could be seated one step further with minimal pressure, allowing the bolt to feed cartridges directly from the magazine. The Steyr Scout’s magazine then becomes flush fitting, and that is a feature that can be found on all current-production Steyr rifles with a double-stack removable-box magazine. An optional high-capacity magazine adaptor and 10-round magazines are also available for the Scout.

Steyr engineers knew that to build an optics-topped Scout rifle that weighed in at less than seven pounds—as Col. Cooper required—they would need to employ a polymer stock, but Steyr engineers surprised Cooper while taking the rifle to a new level when they showed him a bipod that was seamlessly integrated to the stock. An opening for a second box magazine was also designed within the buttstock to keep a backup five- or 10-round magazine held in ready reserve, flush along the bottom of the stock. Also seamlessly incorporated were five push-in-and-turn-to-lock sling swivels attachment points in the stock that would facilitate the addition of Cooper’s favored Ching Sling. This sling allows the shooter to lock himself into the rifle much in the same way as the loop sling allows the Marines of his beloved Corps to become one with their rifles in order to successfully engage targets at distances at 500 meters and beyond.

But Steyr wasn’t finished with the Scout concept just by showing him a few cool concepts that would aid the lone rifleman to shoot more accurately. Steyr’s engineers incorporated the newly designed Safe Bolt System (SBS) action into the Scout rifle to allow the shooter to carry a loaded firearm in an absolutely safe condition. The SBS action would quickly prove its roller-tang safety selector could be placed in a secondary safe position with a round in the chamber, and when the bolt lever was pushed down, the firing mechanism and firing pin would be locked out of position to fire, resulting in a safe firearm—even with a cartridge in the chamber.

The overall length of the Steyr Scout was kept within Col. Cooper’s maximum requirement of exactly one meter (39.4 inches) by way of a hair-splitting, cold-hammer-forged 20-inch barrel that was fluted for heat dissipation and weight reduction.

“Steyr has done a remarkable job of bringing my original concept to reality,” said Col. Cooper in 1998. “The Steyr Jeff Cooper Scout system is everything you could want in a lightweight, all-purpose rifle that can perform virtually any task!”

Proudly displaying Col. Cooper’s crest-of-arms inlaid in the stock, the reintroduction of the Steyr Scout in its original gray signifies a return to sanity for today’s rifleman and the challenges he may face. The Steyr Scout is still available in an all-black configuration as well as a Realtree pattern and a Timber woodgrain profile. Limited numbers of the complete Jeff Cooper Commemorative Scout Package are also available.

So go ahead, and accept a substitute. Colonel Cooper didn’t.

Steyr Col. Jeff Cooper’s Signature Gray Scout Rifle

Established in 1864 in Steyr, Austria, Steyr Arms is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious firearms manufacturers. Steyr’s comprehensive lines of premium hunting rifles and precision sporting and tactical firearms are technically mature, and their subtle elegance also communicates the harmony between appearance and substance. Steyr’s legendary SBS actions and cold-hammer-forged barrels are distinctive and unparalleled. For more information, contact Steyr Arms at 7661 Commerce Lane, Trussville, AL 35173; call (205) 655-8299; or visit www.steyrarms.com.

Chiappa Firearms M-9 22LR Semi-Auto Pistol

MKS Supply

Dayton OH --(Ammoland.com)- Chiappa Firearms debuts its new M-9 (9mm lookalike) semi-auto pistol in .22 Long Rifle caliber.

This is a fun gun! The same size as the 9mm M-9 Its great looks, quality manufacture, and of course economic caliber make it a natural for everything from lookalike economical practice to plinking.

The original 9mm x19mm M-9 won the competition for the new U.S. Military sidearm back in the mid-1980s and became the official U.S. Military sidearm in 1990 with a new model designation. This new Chiappa .22 caliber pistol is a faithful copy of that handgun.

Two Models comprising three variants (plastic or wood grips) are available:

The first is the M9-22 Standard model. This model features drift adjustable rear sights and a choice of wood or black plastic grips. Its suggested retail is $369.00.

The second model is the M9-22 Tactical. This thing is cool! It is a replica of the current U.S. Military model and comes with black plastic grips (no wood). It comes with drift adjustable replica Novak style fiber optic rear sights.

The M9-22 Tactical features a 1/2inch X 28 threaded barrel and replica suppressor and thread protector cap when the replica suppressor is not on the gun. However, the pistol will accept most real suppressors and silencers. Chiappa does NOT make suppressors or silencers.

These Class Three devices must be purchased and registered through licensed dealers. The M9-22 has a suggested retail of $419.00.

Specifications:

• Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
• Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds (2-magazines included with each pistol)
• Barrel Length: 5-inches
• Overall Length: 81/2 inches
• Weight: 37 ounces
• Grips (stocks): wood or black plastic standard model and black plastic Tactical Model
• Replica Suppressor:Tactical model (included, no extra cost)

You may view this high-performance handgun at www.mkschiappa.com

National Rifle Association

FAIRFAX, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- On Tuesday, Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) sent a letter to President Barack Obama, urging him to have the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives review its interpretation of the federal law that provides for the importation of firearms “generally recognized as particularly suitable for or readily adaptable to sporting purposes.”

Adopting a narrower interpretation of the law would, Feinstein claimed, help reduce violence in Mexico and the United States.

As the Supreme Court said in District of Columbia v. Heller (2008), the Second Amendment protects the right to keep and bear arms primarily for self-defense. This means the “sporting purposes” limitation imposed by the Gun Control Act of 1968 is constitutionally suspect, to put it mildly.

What makes matters worse is that BATFE repeatedly misinterprets the law to serve political ends, which is precisely what Feinstein has in mind.

In 1989, under orders from the White House, BATF (as it was then called) disapproved the importation of 43 models of semi-automatic rifles of a type BATF had approved for importation for over 20 years.

To reach that decision, BATF said it recognized that “sporting purposes” included “the traditional sports of target shooting, skeet and trap shooting, and hunting,” but limited its interpretation of “target shooting” to “organized marksmanship competition.” Next, BATF failed to acknowledge that the most traditional, organized marksmanship shooting competitions in the United States for more than a century — the NRA National Rifle Championships and the Civilian Marksmanship Program National Rifle Matches, authorized by Congress since 1903, and the hundreds of local, state and regional matches that precede the national events each year – were dominated by rifles like those BATF prohibited.

In 1993, President Clinton made BATF play politics with federal law again, in order to ban the importation of so-called “assault pistols.” Such pistols had long been approved for importation because they garnered enough points under BATF’s longstanding “Handgun Factoring Criteria,” which assign point values to handgun features and characteristics such as weight, caliber, and sights. To ban the pistols, BATF simply disregarded the criteria.

In 1998, the BATF went further on rifles, banning the importation of previously importable semi-automatics that are capable of using a magazine that holds more than 10 rounds. BATF claimed that its action was justified because the federal “assault weapon” ban of 1994 had prohibited new magazines of over 10 rounds capacity. Of course, the 1994 ban didn’t prohibit rifles on the basis of their ability to use such magazines. The White House bragged “We’re taking the law and bending it as far as we can.”

Sen. Feinstein’s call for more restrictions comes on the heels of last week’s news that a BATFE working group has proposed banning the importation of various shotguns under the sporting purposes test, even while recognizing that the shotguns are commonly used in three-gun and other practical shooting competitions. The working group said it didn’t want to give consideration to practical shooting competitions, because doing so might require BATFE to reconsider its previous bans on rifles and pistols.

In each case, BATFE has disregarded the plain language of the sporting purposes test, defining “generally recognized,” “suitable,” and “sporting” in whatever way supported the restrictions its political bosses demanded. And it completely ignored the law’s provision for firearms that are “readily adaptable” to sports. Under the latter standard, even a hypothetical firearm designed solely for defensive purposes is qualified for importation if it is readily adaptable to sporting purposes.

Of course, while the BATFE deserves criticism for its repeated misinterpretations of the law, and Feinstein deserves criticism for encouraging yet another misinterpretation, the primary problem is the law’s “sporting purpose” limitation. Imposed in 1968, in the pre-Right-to-Carry and pre-Heller days, when government enjoyed a near monopoly on the use of armed defense outside a person’s home, the law is ripe for a remedy in Congress or the courts.

NRA members can help right now by sending their comments to the BATFE concerning its working group’s proposal to ban the importation of shotguns that have magazines that hold over five rounds, rail systems for lighting devices, adjustable stocks, and other features listed in the group’s report.

Comments should be sent to BATFE no later than May 1, 2011, at shotgunstudy@atf.gov, or by fax to (202) 648-9601. Faxed comments may not exceed 5 pages. All comments must include name and mailing address.

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

Browning's Original Gun Store

Browning Firearms

Morgan, UT --(Ammoland.com)- The Model 1911 .45 Automatic Pistol is the world’s most respected handgun, and has been designated by many authorities as the finest service pistol design of all time.

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

This great legacy is now reflected in the new Browning 1911-22 pistol. Introduced 100 years after the original 1911 pistol, the Browning 1911-22 is proudly made in the USA, at a state-of-the-art factory located only a few miles south of Ogden, Utah – the same town where John M. Browning lived and where the genius of all of his greatest firearms inventions began.

Let’s spend a few minutes exploring the rich history of the original Model 1911 .45 Automatic, and discovering how the world’s greatest handgun came to be.

Any complete history of the Model 1911 must start a decade or more before that legendary year, and half a world away in the Philippines. It was here in the tropical heat of those islands that US Soldiers and Marines found themselves locked in combat with fanatic local insurgents and the immediate need for an effective, large caliber defensive pistol became sorely evident.

John M Browning original workbench in Ogden Utah

In the wake of the sinking of the battleship USS Maine in Havana harbor in February of 1898, the United States went to war with Spain. Along with an invasion of Cuba, US Navy forces engaged, routed and destroyed the Spanish fleet at Manila Bay in March 1898, in one of the most lop-sided victories in naval history. US ground forces then went ashore to overthrow the Spanish colonial government and occupy the islands.

Continuing the armed resistance they had previously shown against the Spanish, the Moro tribesmen of the southern islands (reportedly fueled by a dangerous combination of religious zealotry, ardent tribalism and potent opiates) engaged the American forces in a long bout of guerrilla warfare that ultimately lasted nearly 15 years. Much of the combat was at close quarters, where the Moros’ long-bladed kris knives were used to lethal effect.

At the time US troops were armed with either .30 caliber Krag or Springfield bolt-action rifles and .38 caliber double-action revolvers. While the .30 caliber rifles proved effective in stopping the attackers, the US troop’s handguns demonstrated an unnerving lack of stopping power, resulting in numerous reports of Moro warriors absorbing multiple pistol bullets while they continued to hack away at the Americans. Obviously the US troops’ morale suffered badly in this situation.

The combat pistol situation became so acute that old stocks of Model 1873 Colt revolvers in 45 caliber, many of which dated back to the Plains Indian Wars were returned to active service, where they quickly demonstrated a much better track record of stopping an attacker with one well-placed shot.

John M Browning son Val with the BAR in France during WW I

The battlefield experience against the Moros resulted in the famous Thompson-LeGarde tests by the US Military in 1904. In these tests a variety of military cartridges of the day were tested for their penetration, ‘stopping ability’ and energy transfer, using both live and dead cattle at the target medium. While somewhat subjective by modern standards, the tests resulted in an official recommendation “…that a bullet, which will have the shock effect and stopping effect at short ranges necessary for a military pistol or revolver, should have a caliber not less than .45.”

About this time two new armament technologies were also emerging – smokeless powder and the autoloading pistol. In 1906 the US Military, under the direction of General William Crozier of the Ordinance Department, began evaluating several pistol designs along with the suitability of a new cartridge that was designated the .45 Automatic Colt Pistol (or .45 ACP for short). As these military tests continued over the next several years, the Colt pistol began to emerge as the clear favorite.

The Colt pistol that was submitted for these military tests was designed by John M. Browning. Without a doubt the most innovative and visionary firearms designer of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, John M. Browning earned the lasting reputation as “The Father of Automatic Fire.” Browning’s design genius was not limited to pistols. Among his other military inventions were the Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR), numerous .30 caliber and .50 caliber Browning machine guns and the legendary Browning Hi Power, the first successful high-capacity autoloading pistol that soon became a worldwide standard for military sidearms.

Based on the short recoil principle of operation, the John M. Browning design for the US Military pistol trials was a magazine fed, single action semi-automatic pistol with both manual and grip safeties that demonstrated a level of durability, simplicity and reliability that no other pistol design of the era could match. In fact, during a 6,000 round test fired over two days in 1910 that was personally supervised by John M. Browning, his sample pistol became so hot that it was simply dunked in a pail of water to cool it for further firing. Browning’s sample reportedly passed the test with no malfunctions.

Since cavalry troops were going to be the primary combat users of the pistol, several specific design features, like the grip safety and lanyard ring, were mandated by the horse soldiers. (Nothing will turn a cavalry trooper into an infantryman faster than shooting his own horse by accident.) The Browning pistol design was formally adopted by the US Army on March 29, 1911, and thus became known officially as the Model 1911. The US Navy and US Marine Corps adopted the Browning-designed pistol in 1913.

US Army Cavalry troops on maneuvers circa 1930, 1911 pistols in hand.

The Browning-designed 1911 pistol was first tested in combat in Mexico in 1916. At that time Mexico was wracked by revolution and the most prominent of the rebel generals was Pancho Villa. During the early morning hours of March 9, 1916, Villa and his men attacked, looted and burned the small town of Columbus, New Mexico, resulting in the deaths of 18 US soldiers and civilians. Further attacks by Villa’s rebels in Texas resulted in the deaths of several more US soldiers and officials.

In response to the attacks, President Woodrow Wilson ordered General John J. “Black Jack” Pershing to lead a force of nearly 5,000 US soldiers onto Mexico to capture Villa. Many of the next generation of US military leaders got their first combat experience on this operation, including an ambitious young lieutenant by the name of George S. Patton. While the Punitive Expedition ultimately failed to capture Villa, it did provide the first major combat test of a number of new military technologies such as the airplane, wireless telegraph, motorized truck transport and the M1911 pistol.

The following year marked the entry of the United States into the Great War in Europe. American forces, again under the command of General Pershing, joined with Canadian, French and British troops to push back German forces on the Western Front. In all more than a million US troops served in this worldwide conflict.

US Army officer training with 1911 pistol in France circa 1918

WW I, as the Great War soon came to be known, proved a brutal face-off between new weapons and outmoded tactics. Much of the ground combat on the Western Front was conducted as trench warfare, in which small-unit raiding and close quarters combat were common tactics. The Model 1911 proved more than equal to the task, and the powerful pistol quickly became a favorite of American servicemen.

During one legendary engagement Sergeant Alvin York used a Model 1911 pistol to stop an attack by six German soldiers with as many shots, in the process winning the Medal of Honor. Lieutenant Frank Luke of the US Army Air Corps was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his excellent air combat results and his fight to the death with a .45 pistol against a German infantry onslaught after his SPAD biplane was forced down onto a muddy French battlefield.

Other new weapons that emerged from the WW I conflict included tanks, fighter aircraft, rapid-firing artillery, machine guns, poison gas and submarines.

The post-war era saw subtle refinements to the basic Model 1911 design, including the addition of improved sights, an arched mainspring housing, shorter trigger, longer grip safety spur and other ergonomic improvements. Collectively these improvements were completed in 1924 and resulted in the Model 1911A1.

Not long after those modifications were formalized, John M. Browning died of a heart attack at the Fabrique Nationale (FN) factory in Herstal, Belgium, on November 26, 1926.

As the United States began to emerge as a major world military power, the Model 1911 saw combat service in a number of different conflicts, including many small brushfire actions in the Caribbean, South and Central America. These interventions were considered necessary to provide political, social and economic stability to the region and were sometimes called the Banana Wars.

During this era the Model 1911 also became a favorite sidearm of law enforcement officers nationwide, first in .45 ACP and later in the fast-stepping .38 Super. Among the more notable law enforcement users of the 1911 were members of the Texas Rangers, as well as federal agents of the Border Patrol, Prohibition Service and the FBI.

December 7, 1941 brought the Japanese air attack on Pearl Harbor and US entry into WW II. The conflict represented the largest war mobilization in US history, with more than 16 million American men and women serving in the armed forces in every theater of the conflict. The Model 1911 was the standard sidearm for almost all US military forces fighting on the ground, at sea and in the air. Total military production of the Model 1911 was nearly 3 million pistols. Combined with the millions of Browning machine guns and BARs produced over the decades, it is easy to see that the guns designed by John M. Browning played a major role in defending freedom and crushing tyranny. The Model 1911 continued to serve with distinction at the side of American servicemen for most of the remainder of the 20th century including Korea, Viet Nam and other conflicts.

US Army troops armed with a Browning maching gun and 1911 pistols cross a bridge.

With the end of WW II, millions of US servicemen returned from combat service around globe, eager to enjoy a new life of peace and prosperity. With that post-war prosperity came plenty of leisure time for recreation, and the shooting sports in America literally boomed! Shooting clubs and leagues sprouted up in every city and town, at colleges, high schools, factories and local ranges.

One of the favorite shooting competition formats of the day was NRA Bullseye Pistol, which was modeled on the military pistol qualification courses as taught to millions of GIs. Bullseye pistol required expertise with a .22 rimfire pistol, a centerfire pistol and a .45 pistol, often the Model 1911. Post-war economics also helped build the popularity of the 1911, as it could be used in both the centerfire and .45 phases of competition.

Plenty of Model 1911 pistols were readily available as military surplus or as battlefield trophies brought back by GIs. Pistolsmiths who had learned the gun inside and out in the military began to experiment on how best to turn the 1911 into a target range tack-driver, and their improvements often produced one ragged hole in the target. An entire cadre of suppliers like Pachmayr and Kings Gun Works were soon filling the demand for custom accurized 1911 bullseye pistols.

While formal bullseye competition ruled the roost in the post-war era, another movement was quietly taking shape – a movement that soon came to be known as Practical Shooting. For many decades prior to the 1950s much of the combat firearms training doctrine for law enforcement officers was based on a fast draw followed by unsighted or instinctive one-handed firing from the hip. While this technique may have some application at very close ranges, the hit potential quickly became marginal as distances increased.

Jeff Cooper based his Modern Technique on the the 1911 pistol

One of the first to realize the limitations of hip shooting was a young Marine officer by the name of Jeff Cooper.

He understood that in order to stop an assailant, one had to accurately and rapidly deal him a telling blow before he could complete his attack. Cooper’s WW II combat experience in the Pacific and his visionary thinking lead him to develop what became known worldwide as the Modern Technique.

Drawing upon the wisdom of some of the best pistol shooters of the day, Cooper’s method was to use a smooth one-hand draw moving to a strong two-handed hold, then make a quick eye-level sight alignment on the target and rapidly fire with accuracy.

While the Modern Technique is adaptable to most handguns, the ideal instrument to exploit its full effectiveness is the .45 ACP Model 1911 – a pistol with the power, accuracy and reliability to prevail in a confrontation. Cooper codified the concept of the Modern Technique in the Latin motto Diligentia-Vis-Celeritas (D.V.C.) which translates as Accuracy-Force-Speed.

Cooper’s prolific writings and teaching on the subject, along with those of Charles Askins, Ray Chapman, Jack Weaver, Thell Reed and others helped shape the thinking of an entire generation of law enforcement and military trainers, and today it remains the basis for virtually all training doctrine for combat pistol shooting.

The spread of the Modern Technique was also the major factor in the transition of American law enforcement from the revolver to the autoloading pistol during the 1980s and 1990s.

Cooper also played a major role in the creation of the International Practical Shooting Confederation in 1976 and served as its first president. IPSC created a framework for organized competition and quickly became the competition format of choice for hundreds of thousands of avid pistol shooters. Offshoots of the formalized practical shooting sports have blossomed in recent years, including Cowboy Action Shooting, IDPA, USPSA 3-Gun and many others.

An entire industry based on parts, accessories, custom gunsmithing, training centers and formal competition has grown up around the Model 1911, and today the 1911 design remains the world-wide standard for competition pistols. In fact, the emergence of the Modern Technique, practical shooting and concealed carry have resulted in a virtual rebirth of interest in the 1911 pistol design.

With the growth of practical shooting came a greater awareness of personal security and taking responsibility for one’s own safety. Rising crime rates in the 1980s and 1990s helped spark a broad national movement towards civilian concealed carry licensing.

Today almost every state in the Union offers some form of civilian licensing to carry a concealed firearm, and for many of these millions of CCW licensees the choice is some form of the Model 1911, often in a compact version for easier carry and concealment.

In 1985 the US Military adopted the 9mm M9 pistol as their standard sidearm in hopes of creating greater ammunition interoperability with its NATO allies. Hundreds of thousands of servicemen and servicewomen dutifully turned in their Model 1911 pistols, and no doubt many a tear was shed in memory of the 1911’s seven decades of service.

Alas, the painful combat lessons of the past now came full circle. The marginal stopping ability of the 9mm ball cartridge is no more potent today as when it was first introduced in 1902.

In light of this, the US Military has again turned to the venerable Model 1911 and the .45 ACP to arm their special operations troops.

Two more Medals of Honor were awarded in 1993 to US Delta Force operators, Master Sergeant Gary Gordon and Sergeant First Class Randall Shughart, for their actions in Somalia, which were later immortalized in the book and motion picture “Black Hawk Down.” After Shughart was fatally wounded, Gordon continued his fight to the death using a 1911 to protect one of the wounded helicopter pilots.

Browning machine guns armed almost every US plane in WWII - B10 Gunner

Today, when America’s finest go into harm’s way after radical terrorists, chances are a Model 1911 is riding on their hip or MOLLE gear. After 100 years the Model 1911 design is more popular than ever, and remains the standard by which all other autoloading pistols is measured.

We think John M. Browning would like that.

Stoeger Firearms

ACCOKEEK, MD --(Ammoland.com)- Stoeger Industries is pleased to announce that the Cougar-series of double-action, semi-auto pistols now includes a compact model ideal for concealed carry situations.

Carrying 13 rounds in its double stack magazine, this lightweight Cougar packs a punch and gives you the confidence and fire-power of a full-size handgun.

Cougar pistols feature a rotating barrel that locks with the slide, meaning extra strength, and because it stays on the same plane for each shot, greater accuracy is achieved. The barrels are cold hammer-forged and the bores are hard chrome-lined for exceptional durability, which promotes longer barrel life.

Additional features include rounded-edges for snag-free drawing; ambidextrous safety, and combat-style trigger guard.

The three-dot high visibility sights offer quick and positive target acquisition. External surfaces are protected with the exclusive battle-proven Bruniton non-reflective finish – the same durable finish found on the sidearm used by the U.S. armed forces.

Whether you are going to the range or carrying for personal protection, the Cougar Compact is a perfect choice at an affordable price.

“We’ve incorporated the finest technology and maintained proven semi-auto features, to make the Cougar series extremely reliable pistols,” said Stephen McKelvain, Benelli’s VP of Marketing & Communication.

“Accuracy and reliability recoil make the Cougars the ideal choice for target competition, or home defense at an extremely affordable price.”

About:
Headquartered in Accokeek, MD, Benelli USA offers the largest selection of semi-automatic shotguns in the world, as well as a variety of fine products from Franchi, Stoeger, A. Uberti, and Stoeger Airguns. The company has built a solid reputation for producing high quality, durable products with their commitment to reliable function, efficient styling and mechanical precision. For more information visit the Benelli USA web site at www.benelliusa.com

Stoeger M3500 Shotgun

Stoeger Firearms

ACCOKEEK, MD --(Ammoland.com)- Announcing the new Stoeger M3500 3½-inch, 12-gauge, semi-automatic shotgun, the latest addition to Stoeger’s line of quality, affordable shotguns for hunters and shooters.

Versatility, value and solid reliability make the M3500 the perfect choice for waterfowl, wild turkey or upland game birds.

The M3500 handles a full range of loads, from 2¾-inch up to the potent 3½-inch Magnum without adjustment. For reliability and performance, no other 3½-inch semi-auto in its price range compares.

At the heart of the Stoeger M3500 is the proven Inertia Driven operating system; simple and efficient with only three moving parts in the bolt for lightning-fast, reliable operation. Unlike older gas-system guns, the M3500’s Inertia Driven action is contained primarily within the receiver; giving the Stoeger M3500 a better more centered balance and swing. With no propellant gas venting into the action, the M3500 stays cleaner longer.

Stoeger’s M3500 comes with either a 24-, 26- or 28-inch barrel, fitted with a ventilated, stepped rib and fiber-optic front sight for quick target acquisition, even under low-light hunting conditions. The alloy receiver is drilled and tapped and includes a Weaver-style scope base. All M3500’s come supplied with five choke tubes (Extra-full turkey, Full, Modified, Improved-Cylinder, and Cylinder), shim kit for drop and cast adjustment, and a threaded steel recoil reducer that can be installed in the buttstock to help manage felt recoil from heavy Magnum loads. The M3500 is available in three different finishes — Matte Black synthetic, Realtree APG or Realtree Max-4.

“The new Model M3500, which is based on the rock-solid Inertia Driven® operating system, is affordable and versatile.” said Stephen McKelvain, Benelli’s VP of Marketing & Communications. “I’m sure hunters will be delighted with the performance and the price, of the latest addition to the Stoeger lineup.”

About:
Headquartered in Accokeek, MD, Benelli USA offers the largest selection of semi-automatic shotguns in the world, as well as a variety of fine products from Franchi, Stoeger, A. Uberti, and Stoeger Airguns. The company has built a solid reputation for producing high quality, durable products with their commitment to reliable function, efficient styling and mechanical precision. For more information visit the Benelli USA web site at www.benelliusa.com

Sig Sauer SIG556R Rifle In 7.62X39mm

SIG SAUER

EXETER, NH --(Ammoland.com)- SIG SAUER, Inc., the leading manufacturer of commercial, law enforcement and military firearms, introduces the SIG556R carbine, which combines the proven SIG556 gas piston operating system and the time-tested 7.62x39mm cartridge.

The first SIG556 to be offered in a caliber other than 5.56mm NATO, the SIG556R is chambered in the legendary intermediate Russian cartridge.

Most often linked to the AK-series of rifles, 7.62x39mm power is now available in the very accurate, highly dependable SIG556 platform. Found the world over, the tapered cartridge sets the standard for feeding reliability under extreme conditions.

Featuring the exceptional ergonomics of SIG SAUER rifles, the 556R uses standard AK-style magazines, offering exceptional feeding reliability. A two-stage trigger further enhances tactical accuracy.

The SIG556R features a distinctive folding and telescopic stock, and an M1913 rail for accessory attachment. The 16” barrel features four-groove rifling and a twist rate of 1:9.5”. At its full extension, the SIG556R measures 36” but can fold to 26”, making it ideal for situations where maximum maneuverability is required.

The adjustable gas system allows operators to regulate gas flow when ammunition or environmental conditions dictate additional cycling energy. For Special Forces requiring an accurate, more potent rifle, chambered in 7.62x39mm, the SIG556R sets a new standard for dependable operation and function.

Sig Sauer SIG556R Rifle In 7.62X39mm

About SIG SAUER, Inc.
SIG SAUER, Inc. is the largest member of a worldwide business group of firearms manufacturers that includes J.P. Sauer & Sohn and Blaser GmbH in Germany and Swiss Arms AG in Switzerland. This global network of companies gives SIG SAUER a world-class firearms knowledge base, unparalleled design expertise, and extensive manufacturing capacity, enabling the company to respond quickly and effectively to changing market conditions and the needs of its military, law enforcement, and commercial markets worldwide. SIG SAUER is an ISO 9001: 2000 certified company with over 370 employees. For more information on SIG SAUER or any of its products, or the SIG SAUER Academy, log on to www.sigsauer.com

National Rifle Association

Charlotte, NC --(Ammoland.com)- As we reported, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has proposed that it be given emergency authority for six months to require about 8,500 firearm dealers along the border with Mexico “to alert authorities when they sell within five consecutive business days two or more semiautomatic rifles greater than .22 caliber with detachable magazines.”

A Washington Post story reporting on the BATFE proposal described that definition as being applicable to “so-called assault weapons,” but it would also apply to many rifles that have never been labeled with that term.

The rule change was to have started this week, but has been delayed by the White House.

According to an article on TheUSDaily.com, the White House Office of Management and Budget was expected to approve the rule change on Wednesday, but an official told Reuters that “ATF’s information collection request is still under review,” and declined further comment until the “deliberative phase is concluded.”

The reporting requirement apparently was to be imposed under the “authority” the BATFE has used in the past to demand reporting of other types of transactions from certain limited groups of dealers over the past 10 years, but the new proposal is far broader than any previous use of this authority.

Members of Congress have already sent letters to BATFE in opposition to this reporting requirement, which you can view below.

• 36 Members of the U.S. House of Representatives Oppose Proposed Reporting Requirement
• Montana Senators Oppose Proposed Reporting Requirement

The NRA will look at any available options to block this sweeping expansion of federal recordkeeping on gun owners and we ask you to help by contacting your U.S. Senators and Representative and urging them to oppose this measure. You can call your U.S. Senators at (202) 224-3121, and your U.S. Representative at (202) 225-3121.

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

Steyr M-A1 Semi Automatic Handguns

Steyr Redesigns Its Pistols’ Striker Mechanism For Improved Trigger Pull

Steyr Arms

TRUSSVILLE, AL -(Ammoland.com)- Steyr Arms has announced that it has redesigned the Reset Action System mechanism in its popular M-A1 and S-A1 semi-automatic handguns to provide a greatly improved trigger pull. The modification results in a much smoother trigger take-up and a remarkably consistent and crisp break at approximately five pounds.

The redesign incorporates a small pin beneath the rear sight that bisects the striker firing-pin channel. A small roller on this cross-pin allows the striker firing pin to move much more smoothly during the compression phase of the trigger pull. This also allows for a much cleaner break when the trigger mechanism releases the striker firing pin.

Steyr S-A1 Semi Automatic Handguns

Nearly identical in form and function, the M-A1 is the full-size series with a 4-inch barrel, while the S-A1 is the compact series with a 3.6-inch barrel. Chambered in either 9x19mm Luger or .40 S&W, the M-A1 and S-A1 pistols have achieved a great deal of regard among American shooters for their comfortable ergonomics, remarkable safety features, intuitive sighting system, amazing accuracy and extreme reliability.

Both pistol series feature innovative polymer frames that offer shooters unparalleled ergonomics with a high grip and low barrel axis that mitigates muzzle rise as well as an ideal grip angle for a very natural point of aim. The frames include Picatinny rails for mounting illumination and laser-aiming devices. An integrated trigger safety with a Reset Action System trigger requires positive finger pressure to operate the double-action-only design. The striker-fired pistols also incorporate a keyed safety lock.

The suggested retail price for either the M-A1 or S-A1 is $649.

About:
Established in 1864 in Steyr, Austria, Steyr Arms is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious firearms manufacturers. Steyr’s comprehensive lines of premium hunting rifles, precision sporting and tactical rifles, and striker-fired handguns are technically mature, and their subtle elegance also communicates the harmony between appearance and substance. Steyr’s legendary SBS actions and cold-hammer-forged barrels are distinctive and unparalleled. Steyr Arms is also the U.S. importer for Merkel firearms and Anschutz precision rimfire sporting rifles. For more information, contact Steyr Arms at 7661 Commerce Lane, Trussville, AL 35173; call (205) 655-8299; or visit www.steyrarms.com.

National Rifle Association

Charlotte, NC --(Ammoland.com)- The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has proposed that it be given emergency authority for six months, beginning January 5, to require about 8,500 firearms dealers along the border with Mexico “to alert authorities when they sell within five consecutive business days two or more semiautomatic rifles greater than .22 caliber with detachable magazines.”

A Washington Post story reporting on the BATFE proposal described that definition as being applicable to “so-called assault weapons,” but it would also apply to many rifles that have never been labeled with that term.

The reporting requirement will apparently be imposed under the “authority” the BATFE has used in the past to demand reporting of other types of transactions from certain limited groups of dealers over the past 10 years, but the new proposal is far broader than any previous use of this authority. Of course, there’s no law today that prevents dealers from reporting suspicious transactions (or attempted transactions) to the BATFE, and dealers often do so. The BATFE is also free to inspect dealers’ sales records—either for annual compliance inspections or during a criminal investigation.

NRA-ILA’s chief lobbyist, Chris Cox, denounced the attempt to establish a registry of Americans who purchase semi-automatic rifles that gun control supporters ultimately want to see banned. “This administration does not have the guts to build a wall, but they do have the audacity to blame and register gun owners for Mexico’s problems,” Cox told the Post.

“NRA supports legitimate efforts to stop criminal activity, but we will not stand idle while our Second Amendment is sacrificed for politics.”

The Post says “The plan by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives revives a proposal that has languished at the Justice Department and in the Obama administration for several months,” and that the gist of the plan was proposed by Mayors Against Illegal Guns (MAIG) last year. It its August 2009 Blueprint for Federal Action on Guns, MAIG indeed proposed that “ATF should identify the long guns most linked to crime and require dealers to report multiple sales of such guns.”

The idea must have appealed to the BATFE, because in June of this year Congress’ Government Accountability Office released a report noting that BATFE officials had claimed that U.S. efforts to stop the smuggling of firearms to Mexico are hindered by “a lack of required background checks for private firearms sales, and limitations on reporting requirements for multiple sales.”

Curiously, in September, a draft of the Department of Justice’s Inspector General’s Office’s unfavorable review of BATFE’s Project Gunrunner, established to combat the trafficking of firearms to Mexico, didn’t mention multiple sales at all. But the final version of the review, released in November, mentions “multiple sales” 43 times and says “the lack of a reporting requirement for multiple sales of long guns – which have become the cartels’ weapons of choice – hinders ATF’s ability to disrupt the flow of illegal weapons into Mexico.”

Whether BATFE intends its plan as another expansion of its oft-criticized firearm sales record tracing empire, or to lay the groundwork for legislation or regulations restricting “assault weapon” sales, or to fatten the files the agency keeps at its National Tracing Center in West Virginia remains to be seen. And the legality of requiring sales reports on any long guns is also in doubt. When the Congress specifically imposed multiple sales reporting on handguns only, it implicitly stated its intention that the same requirement not apply to sales of long guns.

However, it is crystal clear that some in the Obama Administration agree with those who believe the answer to crime is always more gun control. In September, MAIG blamed crime in states that have “strong” gun laws, on states that don’t have the same laws. And ever since President Obama took office, gun control supporters have been blaming Mexico’s crime problem on America’s gun laws.

The fact that Mexico’s multi-billion dollar drug cartels have machine guns, rocket launchers, grenades, and other potent weaponry you cannot buy in the United States is, to gun control supporters, irrelevant. The fact that most of the cartels’ guns have never been on this side of the U.S. border is, as far as they are concerned, a trifling inconvenience. The fact that the cartels will never have enough “assault weapons” or any other guns from the U.S. to hand out to all the Mexican policemen, soldiers and politicians on their payrolls, is, in their view, an unimportant detail. And the fact that the murder rate in the United States is at a 45-year low, while crime in Mexico is through the roof (the murder rate in Juarez is 115 times higher than in El Paso) is, they would certainly say, a contradiction best ignored.

To read the BATFE’s Federal Register notice about the plan, and for information on how to send your comments, click here (http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/pdf/2010-31761.pdf). Comments about the proposal will be accepted for two months; if you choose to comment, please state your firm but polite opposition to the plan.

Needless to say, the NRA will not only comment, but take whatever other action is appropriate to block this sweeping expansion of federal recordkeeping on gun owners. Stay tuned.

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

Gun Owners of America

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- Did you think that when the ban on semi-autos and semi-auto magazines sunset in 2004, that the jackboots would be removed from the necks of Americans wishing to possess those items?

Well, apparently, not in New Jersey.

Brian Aitken, 27, was convicted in the “Garden State” of possessing high-capacity magazines and now faces seven years in prison.

What makes Aitken’s conviction all the more disconcerting is that he had contacted the New Jersey State Police prior to moving his home and his firearms — and he thought he had all his i’s dotted and his t’s crossed.

Aitken was convicted of possessing "large capacity" magazines only illegal by NJ standards.

According to the Philadelphia Daily News (10/30/10), Aitken had two handguns in his trunk, both of them “locked and unloaded as New Jersey requires.”

Not only that:

Aitken had passed an FBI background check to buy them in Colorado when he lived there, his father said, and had contacted New Jersey State Police and discussed the proper way to transport them.

“He bought them at Bass Pro Shops, for God’s sake, not some guy named Tony on the street corner,” his father said.

Aitken was also was charged with possessing “large capacity” magazines and hollow-point bullets.

Suffice it to say that Gun Owners of America believes this is a travesty of justice.

“This is precisely what’s wrong with gun control,” said GOA Director of Communications Erich Pratt. “Gun laws typically target non-violent gun owners like Aitken, even while there are sex offenders who are serving shorter sentences in New Jersey!”

(For example, a Somerset man, Birut N. Patel, was sentenced in September to only three years in jail for luring under-aged girls to have sex with him.)

Aside from of all of this, there is evidence that Aitken received an unfair trial from a biased anti-gun judge — who has since been removed. Governor Christie refused to reappoint Superior Court Judge James Morley based partly upon the fact that he exonerated a cop of animal cruelty charges, even though he had engaged in oral sex with calves.

So this judge condones that kind of activity, but he sentences a law-abiding gun owner to jail for seven years — for owning guns he had legally purchased in another state!

ACTION: Please contact Governor Christie and urge him to issue a pardon for Brian Aitken. Some might argue that the Governor should wait until Aitken’s legal options run out. However, there is NO CONSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENT that Christie wait for the courts to act. The Governor needs to end this travesty today.

You can contact the Governor at:

Office of the Governor
PO Box 001
Trenton, NJ 08625
www.state.nj.us/governor/contact/

For more information, you can check out Aitken’s Facebook page at: http://www.facebook.com/FreeBrianAitken

—– Pre-written letter to copy and paste —–

Dear Governor Christie:

The people of New Jersey elected you to bring real change to the state of New Jersey. But right now, the courts in the Garden State are running totally out-of-control.

You are well-aware of Superior Court Judge James Morley, a man whom you have refused to reappoint — based partly upon the fact that he exonerated a cop of animal cruelty charges, even though he had engaged in oral sex with calves.

So this judge condones that kind of activity, but then he sentences a law-abiding gun owner like Brian Aitken to jail for seven years — for owning guns he had legally purchased in another state! Aitken had contacted the New Jersey State Police prior to moving his home and his firearms — and he thought he had all his i’s dotted and his t’s crossed.

It is outrageous that Aitken should be serving seven years in prison — for a NON-VIOLENT offense — when there are sex offenders like Birut Patel who are serving less time in this state!

This is why I am imploring you to exercise your constitutional authority to grant pardons — and to issue one to Brian Aitken.

Sincerely,

—————

About:
Gun Owners of America (GOA) is a non-profit lobbying organization formed in 1975 to preserve and defend the Second Amendment rights of gun owners. GOA sees firearms ownership as a freedom issue. `The only no comprise gun lobby in Washington’ – Ron Paul

Colt’s New Agent .45 DAO Review in January GUNS Magazine

FMG Publications

San Diego, Calif. --(Ammoland.com)- The 1911 is one of the most popular pistols in the world.

Over the years it has been produced by dozens of manufacturers, taken on many different looks and been made in several different cartridges, such as the .45 ACP, .38 Super and 10mm.

The Colt New Agent, a brand new design from the storied, iconic firm, is a departure from the single-action 1911 the company has made for 100 years, and it welcomes the New Year on the cover of GUNS Magazine’s January issue on sale now.

One of the biggest changes in Colt’s New Agent is it’s a double-action-only .45.

“Many double-action pistols are double action for the first shot, and then become single actions for subsequent shots,” writes John Taffin. “With the New Agent it is pure double-action-only, meaning every pull of the trigger is the same.”

January GUNS Magazine Reviews Colt’s New Agent .45 DAO

The New Agent also features a trench-style sight that is approximately 1/8″ wide and runs from the back of the slide to the front of the pistol, eliminating snag and making it much more pocket friendly.

According to Taffin, “It may look ‘cute’ but this is a serious pistol for nasty situations— up close situations where sights are really not necessary. At what are normally considered self- defense distances from 15′ to 20′ it is just a matter of drawing with no danger of catching on clothing, point and shoot.”

“There are no external safeties of any kind and the slide locks open when the last shot is fired. The New Agent fed everything flawlessly with never a stutter or hesitation and never a failure to eject fired cases positively,” Taffin records.

GUNS Magazine’s editor Jeff John says, “The New Agent redefines what other pocket pistols in its class can only aspire to be by combining the power of the .45 ACP with a light weight, double-action-only mechanism, and a snag-free draw.”

Also in this issue is January’s gun giveaway featuring a stunning Remington Arms Tactical 870 Pump Shotgun which has been personalized by Nighthawk Customs.

This package is decked out with add-ons including a Pride/Fowler Spec Ops compact Red Dot sight, a SureFire 318LM Weapon Light Fore-end with 100 lumen light and built in pressure switch, ShotLock Solo-Vault, which is a universal shotgun vault made of 14-gauge steel, mounts on a wall or in a vehicle and has a 1000+ combination programmable push-button lock. Finishing up the package are two Katz Knives—a fixed-blade Kagemusha and a Phantom Tactical Folder, making this a GUNS giveaway that you don’t want to miss out on!

January’s giveaway is valued at more than $2,500 and is up for grabs by visiting www.gunsmagazine.com and following the “You Can Win” link. While you are there, purchase your copy of the January issue of GUNS Magazine.

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

CZ 512 Semi Auto Rifle

CZ USA Firearms

Kansas City, KS --(Ammoland.com)- The CZ 512 is an entirely new semi-auto rimfire rifle from CZ. The modular design is easily maintained, requiring only a coin as a tool for field stripping.

The action of the 512 is composed of an aluminum alloy upper receiver that secures the barrel and bolt assembly and a fiberglass reinforced polymer lower half that houses the trigger mechanism and detachable magazine.

The 512 shares the same magazines and scope rings with the CZ 455 making it the perfect companion to your bolt-action rifle

• cal: .22 LR/.22 WMR, stock/finish: Wood/Blue
• Dual guide rods for smooth operation and
  superior reliability.
• Accurate hammer forged CZ barrel
• Adjustable sights
• Integral 11mm dovetail for easy mounting of optics

Item # and Suggested Retail Price:

• 02160 CZ 512 Semi automatic cal. 22 LR $449
• 02161 CZ 512 Semi automatic cal. 22 WMR $479

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

Valkyrie Armament

North Ridgeville, OH --(Ammoland.com)- In a continually shifting world of firearms gadgetry, today’s discriminating second amendment protector is finally offered an AR-15 style rifle that utilizes time proven technology of Colt in a belt-fed configuration.

The Belt-fed, Semi-Automatic rifle (BSR – Mod 1) borrows from the original Stoner/Colt belt-fed design and utilizes modern technology to precisely machine the removable belt box and feed tray mechanism that converts a standard AR-15 style rifle into a belt-fed, semi-automatic support weapons platform.

Coupled with the proven design concepts from the original Colt system , Valkyrie Armament LLC can now provide all riflemen and women with a weapons platform that can utilize a virtually unlimited ammunition supply.

Maintaining 85% parts compatibility, modifications to the upper receiver and lower receiver in the form of cut outs and a bolt carrier drive system are the only design changes.

Complete BSR – Mod 1 weapon systems are available in addition to customer supplied conversions. Msrp $3300.00 for supplied rifle conversions

Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness…
For those that are looking for that tactical, belt fed, 5.56mm weapons platform…Valkryie Armament is your answer. Born from an idea that Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness starts with a warm, belt-fed rifle, Valkryie Armament has reinvented the time-tested model of Eugene Stoner’s belt fed conversion into a modern day phoenix.

In the shooting sports, there are many options for you to consider when looking to buy a semi-automatic firearm. Rifles, pistols, shotguns…there all out there for you to consider. When looking for a belt fed, weapons platform, however, your options are far more limited. Cost, function, and caliber are three areas of concern that Valkryie Armament considered when improving the Stoner design. There just isn’t a more affordable belt fed, 5.56mm rifle on the market today.

Why a belt fed AR15 style rifle? Because you can.
We’ve all heard it before…why do you own an “assault rifle”…why do you need a “scary, black rifle”…why, why, why?

Simply put, because you can. In this great land of ours, the liberties that we all enjoy were born in the barrels and breeches of our forefather’s flintlocks. This truth is undeniable; however, it is continually under siege from the violent storm of opposition.

Valkyrie Armament is your conduit to politely tell those that ask you why…to go pound sand.

Credentials

• 39 years of machining experience
• 18 years experience USMC officer combat veteran
• 10 years full time Leo
• Colt certified armoror
• glock certified armorer
• Certified firearms instructor
• Valkyrie armament llc Class 2 SOT
• www.beltfedar.com

Valkyrie Armament Belt-Fed AR-15 Rifle

Valkyrie Armament Belt-Fed AR-15 Rifle

About:
Valkyrie armament llc, it was formed in 2009 after a lifetime of being firearms enthusiasts we decided it was time to put our expertise in manufacturing to work in the firearms industry so we decided on a historic project to resurrect the stoner convertible belt fed design and so we present the new BSR-mod 1. Visit: www.valkyriearmament.com

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

AmmoLand Gun News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Winchester Ranger SXT Ammunition

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

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

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

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

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

Springfield Stainless 1911 Cocked And Locked

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

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

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

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

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

Kimber 1911 22LR Conversion Kit

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

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

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

Charlie Cutshaw

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

• Para USA
• Kimber
• Brownells
• Springfield

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

Rock River Arms PDS Pistol

Rock River Arms

Colona, IL --(Ammoland.com)- Rock River Arms has the reputation for producing top quality AR15s.

What sets Rock River Arms apart from the competition is their versatility to produce and innovate weapons to such rigorous specifications.

The Rock River Arms PDS Pistol is the first of a new generation of firearms employing Rock River Arms’ patent-pending Piston Driven System (PDS).

Utilizing a purpose-designed bolt carrier, an adjustable gas piston and an over-the-barrel spring and guide rod arrangement, the Rock River Arms PDS is able to completely eliminate the traditional recoil system associated with AR-style firearms, making for an extremely versatile weapon platform. The design of the upper receiver and guide rod base prevents gas blow-by to the back of the receiver.

The two position adjustable regulator is conveniently positioned on the right side of the regulator housing.

The New PDS Pistol has a full length top mounting rail from the rear of the receiver to the regulator housing, allowing flexible placement of numerous optics, lights, lasers and other accessories. The folding ambidextrous, non-reciprocating charging handles may be used independently or in unison to charge the RRA PDS Pistol. The RRA PDS Pistol features a MS1913 rail on the rear receiver adaptor as well as an MS1913 rail on the regulator housing which allows sling or weapons mounting capabilities. The handguard features an integral Operator Safety Flange to help prevent support-hand movement/slippage towards the muzzle.

The RRA PDS Pistol Specifications:

• Caliber: 5.56 NATO Chamber for 5.56mm & .223 cal.
• Upper: Proprietary, with Extended Top Rail
• Charging Handle: Proprietary Ambidextrous Non-Reciprocating
• Barrel: 8” Chrome Moly, 1:9 twist
• Muzzel Device: PDS-MD/ ½-28 thread
• Trigger: Single Stage
• Pistol Grip: Hogue Rubber Pistol Grip
• Handguard: Injection molded with Operator Safety Flange
• Front Sling. Light Mangment: MS1913 Rail on Regulatory Housing
• Rear Sling Mnt: MS1913 Rail on Rear Receiver Adapter
• Weight: 5 pounds
• Over All Length: 17.5”
• Includes: 1 – magazine, Owners Manual, Warranty

Rock River Arms

For more information on the complete line of Rock River Arms products, contact: Rock River Arms, 1042
Cleveland Rd, Colona, IL 61241 Phone: (309) 792.5780 Fax: (309) 792.5781 www.rockriverarms.com.

Remington Versa Max Autoloading Shotguns

Remington Arms Company

Madison, NC --(AmmoLand.com)- Remington is pleased to announce the most exciting addition to its respected 100-year lineage of autoloading shotguns – the highly-anticipated VERSA MAX.

This technologically-advanced, gas-piston operated 12-gauge, 3½-inch autoloader shatters convention and all previous benchmarks for reliability with an action that is unlike any that have come before it. Built to withstand the elements, function reliably with all 12-gauge shells with less recoil than some 20-gauge shotguns, and designed to be fully adjustable for length of pull, comb height and stock drop and cast; the VERSA MAX represents true versatility to the MAX!

Initial VERSA MAX offerings include a 28-inch black synthetic version with custom grey overmolded grips and 28-inch Mossy Oak Duck Blind full camo version with black overmolded grips. In January 2011, two additional 12-gauge models will be introduced – a 26-inch black synthetic offering with grey overmolded grips and a 26-inch Realtree AP fully-camouflaged version. Both the 26-inch and 28-inch black synthetic models come with five Flush Pro Bore chokes (Full, Mod, Imp Mod, Light Mod and IC) and both camouflaged versions come with four Pro Bore Extended choke tubes (IC, Mod, Full and Extra Full). All models feature our soft-touch finish on the stocks and fore-ends.

At the heart of VERSA MAX is our patented VersaPort gas piston system; an extremely-reliable, semi-automatic operating system consisting of seven gas ports and two gas pistons for enhanced load versatility, while softening recoil and reducing maintenance. The VersaPort gas system self-regulates gas pressure based on the length of the shell, for flawless cycling no matter the load! Additionally with its self-cleaning gas piston system, overall maintenance time and effort is greatly reduced. With fewer parts than conventional gas systems, not only is cleaning easier but there are fewer parts to maintain. From the lightest 2 ¾-inch target loads to the heaviest 3 ½-inch magnums, the VERSA MAX cycles with ultimate consistency, softer recoil and less maintenance than ever experienced before.

VERSA MAX proved its reliability in an extreme test of endurance. We cycled hundreds of thousands of rounds through VERSA MAX in temperature extremes ranging from -200 F to 1200 F and it passed the test! Reliability is essential, but VERSA MAX is durable as well.

Designed for the field, VERSA MAX provides extreme corrosion resistance with its anodized aluminum receiver; TriNyte-coated barrel with nickel-plated bore (camo guns have nickel-plated barrels and bores with camo outer layer); nickel-Teflon plated internal gas system components; stainless steel magazine tube; aluminum action tube; and nickel-plated springs. Housed in a durable soft-touch synthetic stock with rubber overmolded grip panels in key areas of the stock and fore-end, VERSA MAX provides superior handling and grip in all weather conditions. Larger trigger guard design and over-sized cross-bolt safety provide greater dexterity when wearing gloves on extreme cold weather hunts.

VERSA MAX is designed to be fully adjustable for a custom fit as well. The stock features an extra thick SuperCell recoil pad and Adjustable Length of Pull (LOP) Spacer Kit so you can quickly adjust the stock length, up to one inch longer, to adapt to any shooting situation. To further customize fit, VERSA MAX has an adjustable drop and cast shim system which is easily tailored to fit with the included wrench. An interchangeable, padded cheek comb insert allows for better sight alignment and comfort when shooting. Proper fit combined with the recoil-absorbing features of the VERSA MAX, makes shooting more enjoyable and reduces the recoil of even the heaviest waterfowl loads to a light push.

Additional features on this revolutionary 12-gauge autoloader include mil-spec anodized aluminum receiver for overall weight reduction and corrosion resistance with superior strength of design; 4140 hammer-forged steel barrel with a ventilated rib that tapers from 10mm at the receiver to 7mm at the muzzle for consistent sighting; drilled and tapped receiver for mounting optics; sling studs for ease of carrying; over-sized cross-bolt safety; Pro Bore choke tubes to match any shooting situation; HiViz sights featuring interchangeable light pipes for quick target acquisition; and a 3+1 shell capacity for 2 ¾ & 3-inch shotshells and 2+1 for 3 ½-inch shotshells.

Ready to take afield or to the range, VERSA MAX comes complete with a custom rugged, hard plastic carrying case. As an added bonus, all VERSA MAX shotguns come standard with Remington’s Platinum Service Plan. Free to all who participate, the plan includes one courtesy cleaning and detailed inspection within the first 12 months of purchase, 7-day turnaround on all repairs and free shipping on all warranty repairs.

Only Remington is capable of delivering such an innovative autoloading shotgun to the marketplace. See your local dealer today to be one of the first to own the most versatile, reliable, and softest-recoiling 12-gauge autoloader in the world – VERSA MAX!

Steyr Arms SA1 Pistol

Steyr Arms

TRUSSVILLE, Alabama --(Ammoland.com)- Steyr Arms has announced that it is bringing back the popular Steyr M-A1 and S-A1 semi-automatic handguns to the United States.

The first batch of these pistols has already arrived at the Steyr Arms headquarters, and the pistols will begin shipping to dealers later this month.

Nearly identical in form and function, the M-A1 is the full-size series with a 4-inch barrel, while the S-A1 is the compact series with a 3.6-inch barrel. Chambered in either 9x19mm Luger or .40 S&W, the M-A1 and S-A1 achieved a great deal of regard among American shooters for their comfortable ergonomics, remarkable safety features, intuitive sighting system, amazing accuracy and extreme reliability.

Both pistol series feature innovative polymer frames that offer shooters unparalleled ergonomics with a high grip and low barrel axis that mitigates muzzle rise as well as a perfect grip angle for a very natural point of aim. The frames include Picatinny rails for mounting illumination and laser-aiming devices. An integrated trigger safety with a Reset Action System trigger requires positive finger pressure to operate the double-action-only design. The striker-fired pistols also incorporate a keyed safety lock.

The fixed, low-profile sights present a unique triangle/trapezoid configuration for exceptionally fast target acquisition, as the triangular shape of the front sight naturally directs the shooter’s eye toward the target. The barrels are cold-hammer forged with polygonal rifling, and the chambers are fully supported.

“Almost every day for nearly two years, we have received calls and e-mails from customers asking when we were going to bring back the Steyr M- and S-series pistols,” said Steyr Arms CEO Scott O’Brien. “I am very pleased that today we can say, ‘The time is now.’

“Like the return of the AUG last year, we’re extremely excited to reintroduce yet two more iconic and highly desired firearms for American shooters.”

The suggested retail price for either the M-A1 or S-A1 is $649.

Established in 1864 in Steyr, Austria, Steyr Arms is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious firearms manufacturers. Steyr’s comprehensive lines of premium hunting rifles, precision sporting and tactical rifles, and striker-fired handguns are technically mature, and their subtle elegance also communicates the harmony between appearance and substance. Steyr’s legendary SBS actions and cold-hammer-forged barrels are distinctive and unparalleled. Steyr Arms is also the U.S. importer for Merkel firearms and Anschutz precision rimfire sporting rifles. For more information, contact Steyr Arms at 7661 Commerce Lane, Trussville, AL 35173; call (205) 655-8299; or visit www.steyrarms.com.

SCAR 17S Rifle

FNH USA

McLean, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- FNH USA announces the arrival of a limited first production run of SCAR 17S rifles.

This first release of the commercial SCAR 17S will include a durable, lockable, waterproof Hardigg Storm hard side case that is ideal for storage and transportation along with a certificate of authenticity attesting that it is part of the initial production run marking the introduction of the FN SCAR 17S in the U.S.A.

The semi-automatic FN SCAR 17S is a modular, lightweight, semi-automatic rifle with exceptional reliability and durability.

It features:

• A free floating, cold hammer-forged MIL-SPEC barrel with a hard-chromed bore;
• An innovative gas-operated, short stroke piston system for fouling reduction and improved reliability;
• Fully ambidextrous operating controls that allow adaptability for left and right hand users;
• A receiver-integrated MIL-STD 1913 optical rail plus three accessory rails to allow use of a wide variety of tactical lights and lasers;
• A side-folding, polymer stock that is adjustable for comb height and length of pull;
• 7.62 x 51 mm (308 WIN.) cartridge chambering;
• A choice of 10 or 20-round magazines;
• Authentic USSOCOM flat dark earth finish; and
• A barrel length of 16.25” and weight of 8.0 lbs.

The SCAR 17S makes an ideal platform for the Heavy Metal Divisions in various three-gun shooting venues as well as U.S. Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) sanctioned events.

For more details and photographs or to download wallpapers, visit www.fnhusa.com.

FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit www.fnhusa.com to view the entire line of FNH USA products and services. FNH USA, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA, 22101, U.S.A.

Steyr Arms MA1 Pistol

Steyr Arms

TRUSSVILLE, Alabama --(Ammoland.com)- We are pleased to announce that Steyr Arms will again import the Steyr MA-1 and SA-1 line of pistols starting in August.

SAI will import additional quantities of both models in both a 9mm version as well as a .40 S&W. The MA-1 and the SA-1 were two of Steyr’s best selling models, but the fall of the dollar versus the euro over the last several years caused the price point to escalate far too high to import.

Internationally, the pistols sell for 610 Euro or over $800 at a 1.4 exchange rate. However, SAI felt the price point needed to be much lower to truly compete in the US market.

Due to a bulk buying agreement with Austria and the recent rise of the dollar against the Euro, it became much more economical to import some additional pistols into the USA. Starting in August, SAI will be re-releasing both the MA-1 and SA-1 versions at a suggested retail price of $649.

We are very excited to be able to offer these items again to the Steyr fanatics out there. Thank you for all of the emails and feedback over the last two years encouraging us to bring back the pistol! For more information about the pistol series, see your local Steyr retailer or call us at 205-655-8299.

• To see specs on the SA-1pistol click here.
• To see specs on the MA-1 pistol click here.

Steyr Arms SA1 Pistol

About:
Established in 1864 in Steyr, Austria, Steyr Arms is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious firearms manufacturers. Steyr’s comprehensive lines of premium hunting rifles and precision sporting and tactical firearms are technically mature, and their subtle elegance also communicates the harmony between appearance and substance. Steyr’s legendary SBS actions and cold-hammer-forged barrels are distinctive and unparalleled. Steyr Arms is also the U.S. importer for Merkel firearms and Anschutz precision rimfire sporting rifles. For more information, contact Steyr Arms at 7661 Commerce Lane, Trussville, AL 35173; call (205) 655-8299; or visit www.steyrarms.com.

Coonan .357 Magnum Automatic Pistol

Coonan Inc Firearms

Blaine, MN - -(AmmoLand.com)- Coonan, Inc. is proud to announce production of our world famous Coonan Classic .357 Magnum Automatic Pistol.

With classic 1911 styling, and stainless steel construction, this pistol will deliver the dependability you demand along with the awesome firepower of the .357 Magnum chambering.

Each Coonan Classic .357 Magnum Automatic pistol ships with an embroidered custom case, a gun lock, one magazine and an instruction manual. Upgraded sight packages are available as well as additional magazines. Several grip styles are offered as accessories.

For a limited time you can choose your own serial number from a list of the first 500 pistols we will manufacture. Just go to our website at www.coonaninc.com ; sign in or register and select “Pistols”. Once you enter the required information, you will have several minutes to select your serial number. The numbers are listed in order of when they will be manufactured. No custom numbers; only the ones listed. Pistols will ship in 8-12 weeks from receiving your order and payment.

Make sure you have identified an FFL to have your pistol shipped to. We must receive your Dealers FFL before your firearm will ship.

• Order your Coonan Classic .357 Magnum Automatic Pistol here.
• Dealers, call Coonan Inc. at 763-786-1720 for dealer pricing.

About:
Coonan Inc. manufactures firearms by the legendary gun designer, Dan Coonan. Visit: www.coonaninc.com

Arsenal’s SGL12 Semi-Auto Saiga 12-Gauge Shotgun

Arsenal Firearms

Las Vegas, NV --(Ammoland.com)- Designed by Mikhail T. Kalashnikov, produced at the Izhmash factory, and refined by Legion, Arsenal, Inc is proud to offer its original Saiga 12-gauge shotgun.

Designed as an all purpose shotgun, this weapon will deliver the performance needed when using it for hunting, sporting, and home defense.

Chambered in the versatile and functional 12-gauge round, this semi-auto shotgun has all the standard features seen on the original Saiga that allows it to operate in the harshest environments with virtually any type of ammunition. Arsenal, Inc. has gone out of its way to insure that their Saiga 12’s, now termed the SGL12 by Arsenal, Inc, is complete with the adjustable gas block and chrome lined bore. Arsenal, Inc’s SGL12 also incorporates the standard 5rd detachable magazine seen in all previous Saiga 12’s.

Utilizing Kalashnikov’s tested and battle proven gas system this shotgun will be a guaranteed hit with every squeeze of the trigger. It has the capabilities to shoot in single shot operation, allowing use of all the gases in order to increase the velocity of the round. It can be also used in the standard semi-auto mode that is capable of cycling both 2 ¾” and 3” magnum shells. The barrel is also threaded allowing for use of all standard Saiga 12 choke tubes. Backed by Arsenal, Inc’s standard warranty, hunters, sportsmen, and persons interested in self defense can’t go wrong with this weapon.

Arsenal, Inc’s SGL12’s are currently sold exclusively through K-Var® who can be reached at www.k-var.com or 702-364-8880.

Located in Las Vegas, NV Arsenal, Inc serves as full line manufacturer, importer, and developer of the best combat weapons available and the accessories for them.

For more information on this product or any other product by Arsenal, Inc. line please call (702) 643-2220 or visit www.arsenalinc.com.

Barrett REC7 Rifle In 5.56 Nato & 6.8 SPC

Barrett Firearms

Murfreesboro, TN --(AmmoLand.com)- Barrett, a company world known for providing high-end firearms, optics, ammunition and training, announces the newest improvements and additions to the respected REC7 piston-operated rifle line. The REC7 rifle continues to impress with its enhanced reliability, accuracy and durability.

Barrett continues to expand this product line by adding the popular 5.56 NATO chambering cartridge to the lineup. The much-anticipated addition has caught the attention of many law enforcement customers. Many improvements have been made to the REC7 line, with many new enhancements included. The most visual changes are the Daniel Defense free-float rail system and Magpul® MOE® six-position stock.

The Barrett Enhanced Piston-specific Bolt is made from 9310 steel and is nickel-Teflon® coated. Along with the new extractor, these features increase durability. Each bolt is proofed and magnetic-particle tested to guarantee reliable performance. Machined from 8620 steel, the nickel-Teflon coated anti-tilt bolt carrier features an integral piston strike face.

The patented chrome-lined, forward venting, fluted gas block increases reliability by eliminating carbon buildup in the gas cylinder. The 17-4 stainless piston is the strongest on the market, and is easily accessed for cleaning without removing the handguard. The two-position (suppressed/unsuppressed), nitride finish gas plug is corrosion-resistant and easily manipulated with gloves. The gas block acts as an extended rail, providing ample space for mounting optics and accessories.

The REC7 rifle’s forged 7075 aluminum upper and lower receivers are type 3 hardcoat anodized. The lower houses a dependable mil-spec single-stage trigger. The Magpul enhanced trigger guard allows easy access to the trigger in cold weather or with tactical gloves. The upper supports a free-floating, 16-inch hammer-forged, chrome-lined barrel with M4 feed ramps machined into both the receiver and the barrel extension. Each barrel is proofed and magnetic-particle tested for quality assurance. A mil-spec A2 flash hider protects the muzzle.

The REC7 rifles now include two 30-round magazines, either Magpul PMAG® 5.56 NATO or Barrett 6.8, three rail covers and tactical soft case. A right-hand, single-point Burnsed sling loop is angled for charging handle clearance.

Barrett is a family-owned and -operated company specializing in high-performance rifle systems and accessories. Barrett manufactures rifles, ammunition, optics and other related accessories for civilian sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the United States military and over 63 foreign allied militaries worldwide

Taurus 24/7 G2 Semi-Auto Pistol

Taurus Firearms

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

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

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

Taurus 24/7 G2 Semi-Auto Pistol

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

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

Taurus 24/7 G2 Semi-Auto Pistol

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

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

U.S. Sportsmen's Alliance

Illinois --(AmmoLand.com)-A so called “assault weapon” bill in Illinois will ban numerous commonly used hunting firearms.

Senate Bill 3036, introduced by Senator Antonio Munoz (D- Chicago), prohibits the manufacture, delivery, sale, purchase, or possession of “semi-automatic assault weapons.” Included in the bill’s definition are firearms used for hunting such as semi-automatic shotguns that have either a pistol grip or a thumbhole stock and many hunting rifles.

While the bill allows for possession of those firearms that are currently owned, it would prohibit the purchase or transfer of new firearms that are on the banned list in Illinois, even if those firearms are commonly used for target shooting or for hunting purposes.

The measure does include an exemption for the possession of these types of firearms when used for hunting, but fails to allow for target or other recreational shooting activities including sighting in. Essentially, sportsmen could only use certain firearms for hunting if they already possess them or purchased them out of state.

“The bill’s broad definition outlaws numerous firearms used commonly for both deer and turkey hunting and other shoot sports,” says Jeremy Rine, U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance associate director of state services. “There is simply no justification for this bill.”

Take Action! Illinois sportsmen should contact their senators and tell them that the firearms included in SB 3036 are commonly used by scores of citizens for target shooting, hunting and other recreational activities and should not be banned. To find your state senator’s phone number and other contact information, use USSA’s Legislative Action Center

About:
The U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance (USSA) and the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation (USSAF) work nationwide, representing over 1.5 million sportsmen through member clubs and individual constituents. The organizations provide legislative, legal defense and public education services to defend and advance sportsmen’s rights in Washington, D.C. and in all 50 states. Visit: www.ussportsmen.org

FNAR Standard 16" Rifle

FNH USA

McLean, Va.- -(Ammoland.com)- The extremely accurate FNAR is now available in a more compact model, featuring a standard contour 16″ cold hammer-forged MIL-SPEC fluted barrel with a hard-chromed bore and target crown.

A one-piece, receiver-mounted MIL-STD 1913 optical rail comes standard, offering you unlimited sighting options.

The FNAR has an adjustable, pistol grip polymer stock with three rails on the stock’s fore-end for mounting additional tactical lights or lasers.

An ambidextrous magazine release button drops the detachable 20-, 10- or 5-round steel box magazine (DBM).

About:
FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit www.fnhusa.com to view the entire line of FNH USA products and services. FNH USA, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA, 22101, U.S.A. Visit: www.FNHUSA.com

FNH SCAR 16s Carbine Black

FNH USA

McLean, Va.- -(Ammoland.com)-  The SCAR™ 16S, the semi-auto only civilian version of the U.S. Special Operations Command’s newest 5.56x45mm/223 Rem. service rifle, is now available in matte black.

The new model has all the same features as the flat dark earth tan model and is available with 10- or 30-round magazines.

The highly anticipated SCAR™ 17S will be available for consumer purchase in Spring 2010.

Chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO/308 Winchester, the SCAR™ 17S offers long-range accuracy, exceptional reliability and match winning versatility. Magazine capacities for the SCAR™ 17S are 10 and 20 rounds.

Both the SCAR™ 16S and SCAR™ 17S have fully ambidextrous operating controls, a free floating, a cold hammer-forged Mil-SPEC 16.25” barrel with hard-chromed bore, a receiver-integrated MIL-STD 1913 optical rail plus three accessory rails for mounting scopes, electronic sights, lights, or lasers.

The side-folding polymer stock is fully adjustable for comb height and length of pull. Both guns feature a tactically-advantageous, ambidextrous, reciprocating charging handle for quick loading and chamber clearing.

About:
FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit www.fnhusa.com to view the entire line of FNH USA products and services. FNH USA, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA, 22101, U.S.A. Visit: www.FNHUSA.com

FNH Five-seveN Handgun

FNH USA

McLean, Va.- -(Ammoland.com)- The innovative, single-action Five-seveN® autoloading pistol now comes with your choice of adjustable target sights or fixed three-dot sights.

The textured, ergonomic polymer frame has checkered panels for a secure grip and is available in olive drab green, matte black or flat dark earth tan frame finishes.

The polymer slide cover helps reduce weight, while the operating controls are placed for easy access with a reversible magazine release and ambidextrous manual safety levers. The barrel is hammer-forged and chrome-lined for long life.

The Five-seveN® fires the low-recoil 5.7x82mm cartridge, and was recently approved by the NRA Law Enforcement Activities Division for use in its Tactical Police Competition.

About:
FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit www.fnhusa.com to view the entire line of FNH USA products and services. FNH USA, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA, 22101, U.S.A. Visit: www.FNHUSA.com

FNP-45 Tactical Handgun

FNH USA

McLean, Va.- -(Ammoland.com)- Originally developed for the U.S. Joint Combat Pistol Program, the new FNP-45 Tactical offers you big-bore 45 ACP performance plus a host of unique features.

The flat dark earth tan polymer frame has ergonomic, deep-checkered grip panels, two interchangeable backstrap inserts and a low bore axis for less felt recoil and improved control.

The 5.3″ stainless steel barrel has a threaded muzzle to accept a sound suppressor or compensator.

The new flat dark earth stainless steel slide is fitted with high-profile combat night sights, and includes two mounting bases to accept an optional red dot electronic sight.

Each FNP-45 Tactical comes with three 15-round magazines and an exclusive Eagle® tactical Cordura® nylon fitted soft case.

About:
FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit www.fnhusa.com to view the entire line of FNH USA products and services. FNH USA, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA, 22101, U.S.A. Visit: www.FNHUSA.com

FNH FNX-40 Handgun

FNH USA

McLean, Va.- -(Ammoland.com)- The new FNX-9 and FNX-40 offer ergonomic polymer frames with deep-checkered grip panels and a low bore axis for less felt recoil and improved control.

Four interchangeable backstrap inserts quickly customize the fit and feel of the FNX to your exact needs.

The profiled stainless steel slide has cocking serrations front and rear and the 4″ hammer-forged stainless barrel delivers long life and pinpoint accuracy.

The new Deep-V rear sight notch allows you to clearly see and align both the three dots and the top edges of the sights for greater accuracy.

Fully ambidextrous operating controls make the FNX perfect for competition and personal defense for right or left-handed shooters. The FNX comes with decocking/manual safety levers, making it one of the safest hammer guns on the market.

Every FNX is proudly made in the USA.

About:
FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit www.fnhusa.com to view the entire line of FNH USA products and services. FNH USA, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA, 22101, U.S.A. Visit: www.FNHUSA.com

Smith & Wesson

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. --(AmmoLand.com)- Smith & Wesson® Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC), parent company of Smith & Wesson Corp., the legendary 158-year old company in the global business of safety, security, protection and sport, announced today the introduction of company’s newest line of firearms designed for personal protection – the Smith & Wesson BODYGUARDS. The BODYGUARD 380 semi-automatic pistol and BODYGUARD 38 revolver have been designed in conjunction with Insight Technology®, a leader in the laser optics field, to offer consumers a new and uniquely engineered, lightweight, self-defense firearm with built-in laser sights.

Debuted this week at the 2010 Shooting Hunting & Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, the BODYGUARDS combine the latest advancements in laser technologies with Smith & Wesson’s innovative design and manufacturing capabilities. The new BODYGUARD line features a uniquely designed compact frame, an integrated INSIGHT laser and several other new high-tech advantages.

“Throughout the development of the BODYGUARDS, our engineers and product managers worked closely with end users to design and produce an innovative line of personal protection firearms,” said Michael Golden, CEO of Smith & Wesson Corp., a division of Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation. “Both the BODYGUARD 380 pistol and the BODYGUARD 38 revolver have been built with state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques. Each provides a reliable and logical choice for those seeking a firearm for personal protection. In addition, our engineers worked closely with Insight Technology to design an integrated laser that not only improves target acquisition but also reduces the price of this technology so more customers can afford to use laser sighting systems. We are very pleased with the positive feedback we have received on the new BODYGUARD line from the numerous retailers and media professionals at the 2010 SHOT Show.”

BODYGUARD 380 Pistol
Compact, sleek and ergonomic, the BODYGUARD 380 delivers personal protection in an easy-to-carry platform. Chambered for .380 ACP, the lightweight pistol features a high-strength polymer frame with a black, Melonite® coated stainless steel slide and barrel. The new BODYGUARD 380 is standard with a 2 ¾-inch barrel, which contributes to an overall length of 5 ¼-inches and an unloaded weight of only 11.85 ounces.

The new pistol features a double-action fire control system, which allows for rapid second-strike capability. The BODYGUARD 380 has been further enhanced with a smooth trigger pull. Adding to its simplicity, the BODYGUARD 380 is standard with a manual thumb safety and an external take down lever and slide stop. On the lower portion of the frame, the pistol has been fitted with an integral INSIGHT laser, which is easily operated by both left and right-handed shooters. With its slim-line ergonomic grip, the pistol is comfortable in the hand and points naturally. To help aid in quick sight acquisition when the laser is not in use, the pistol includes black, Melonite-coated, stainless steel, drift adjustable dovetail sights. The BODYGUARD 380 is standard with a 6+1 magazine capacity.

BODYGUARD 38 Revolver
Chambered in .38 S&W Special +P, the BODYGUARD 38 continues Smith & Wesson’s line of reliable small-frame self-defense revolvers. The BODYGUARD 38 delivers the optimal combination of accuracy and simplicity. With its lightweight design, the BODYGUARD 38 allows for discreet carry and its hammerless design provides a snag-free presentation. The five-shot revolver features a short 1.9-inch barrel, which contributes to a compact overall length of 6.6 inches.

Weighing in at 14.3 ounces, the BODYGUARD 38 features a one-piece aluminum alloy upper frame along with a steel reinforced polymer lower frame. The barrel and cylinder on the revolver are both stainless steel. The stainless steel cylinder is coated with a durable, non-reflective, matte black PVD finish for long term carrying and low light presentation. Designed to accommodate both left and right-handed shooters, the revolver features an easily manipulated ambidextrous cylinder release on the top of the frame. The revolver is further enhanced with an ergonomic one-piece rubber grip and a smooth trigger pull.

On the right side of the frame, the revolver has been fitted with an integral INSIGHT laser, allowing precise shot placement in low light conditions. For fast target acquisition when the laser is not in use, the revolver sports a notch-style rear sight and a pinned black blade front sight. The BODYGUARD 38, with its double-action only design, can be easily concealed for discreet carry.

INSIGHT Laser
At the core of the new BODYGUARD line of firearms is the capability of the INSIGHT laser. Allowing for optimal accuracy, both the BODYGUARD 380 and 38 are fitted with a red laser sight produced in conjunction with Insight Technology. A world leader in the design, development and manufacture of tactical lasers, Insight Technology designed the integrated laser system to perfectly mate with the new pistol and revolver. Accurate, durable and easily adjusted, the integral laser provides shooters with added confidence by enabling quick sight acquisition under low light conditions.

The integrated laser sighting system enables faster target acquisition for shooters of all experience levels. By working closely together and designing the firearm and laser sight system to be integral, Smith & Wesson and Insight Technology have achieved a value positioning that allows more firearm customers to afford laser sighting system technology.

To activate the laser, users simply operate the push-button design located on top of the laser sight for the revolver and on the sides of the forward frame for the pistol. Ambidextrous and easily manipulated while holding the firearm in the shooting position, the laser sight features three modes. By pushing the button once, the laser is on a constant-on mode. A second push of the button enables the laser to go into pulse mode while a third press turns the laser off. The INSIGHT laser is equipped with an automatic five-minute auto off timer, to preserve battery life. In constant on mode, the laser provides three hours of continuous run time. The laser sight can be adjusted for both windage and elevation and no assembly is required. Two Energizer 357 or equivalent batteries power the laser on the BODYDGUARD handguns.

“With its advanced features and quality components, the new BODYGUARDS offer an easy-to-use, accurate and lightweight self-defense firearm,” said Golden. “The new BODYGUARD 380, 38 and their integral laser sight systems have been meticulously engineered from the ground up. Simple yet sophisticated, the new BODYGUARDS provide the satisfaction, durability and reliability that have become synonymous with Smith & Wesson firearms.”

About Smith & Wesson
Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ: SWHC) is a U.S.-based, global provider of products and services for safety, security, protection and sport. The company designs and constructs facility perimeter security solutions for military and commercial applications, and delivers a broad portfolio of firearms and related training to the military, law enforcement and sports markets. SWHC companies include Smith & Wesson Corp., the globally recognized manufacturer of quality firearms; Universal Safety Response, a full-service perimeter security integrator, barrier manufacturer and installer; and Thompson/Center Arms Company, Inc., a premier designer and manufacturer of premium hunting firearms. SWHC facilities are located in Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Tennessee. For more information on Smith & Wesson and its companies, call (800) 331-0852 or log on to www.smith-wesson.com; www.usrgrab.com ; or www.tcarms.com.