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MAY 2016 | VOLUME 60, NUMBER 5 | PUBLISHED MONTHLY

CONTENTS

Guns & Ammos

subscriber cover
features new
Tikka T3x rifles
that provide
custom rifle-level
performance
at budget-level
prices. p. 44

THE

by patrick sweeney

INTRODUCING THE KIMBER

K6s IN .357 MAGNUM.

SUN RISES WEST

IN
THE

ABOVE: SEAN UTLEY, COVER PHOTOS: MARK FINGAR AND SEAN UTLEY

NEW FOR 2016 PREVIEW

Our writers relentlessly scoured the 2016 SHOT Show
looking for the best and brightest new firearms industry
introductions. Their tired feet were worth it.

37

44

66

GETTING MORE
FOR THE MONEY
Three all-day field guns that
naturally evolve the Tikka T3 lineup.

REMINGTON V3
Remington takes something good
and makes it better.

by tom beckstrand

by eric r. poole

Reader Blowback 6
Editorial by Eric R Poole 13
Gun Room by Garry James 15
The Carry Rig EAA ABDO 21
Proofhouse Bond Arms Brown Bear California Edition 104
G&A Almanac 110

55

79

HANDGUNS

RIFLES

SHOTGUNS

AMMO

OPTICS

Beretta 38
Colt 38
Ed Brown 38
Glock 39
Honor Defense 39
Kimber 39
Les Baer 40
Nighthawk 40
Ruger 40
SIG Sauer 41
Smith & Wesson 41
Springfield Armory 41, 42
Walther 42

Colt 56
CORE-15 56
Kel-Tec 57
Kimber 57
Mossberg 57, 58
POF-USA 58
Ruger 58
Savage 60
SIG Sauer 60
Smith & Wesson 62
Springfield Armory 62
Tavor 62
Sako Tikka 64
Troy 64
Windham Weaponry 64

Benelli 80
Browning 80
CZ 81
Franchi 81
Mossberg 82
Remington 82
Stevens 82, 84
Weatherby 84
Winchester 84

Armscor 88
Black Hills 88
Browning 88
Federal 89
Hornady 89
Ruger 90
SIG Sauer 90
Winchester 91

Aimpoint 94
Burris 94
Bushnell 100
EOTech 9697
Leupold 9697
Meopta 9697
Nightforce 9899
Nikon 9899
SIG Sauer 9899
Steiner 100
Trijicon 94
Vortex 102

by patrick sweeney

87

by chris mudgett

by brad fitzpatrick

93

by tom beckstrand

by tom beckstrand

Spent Cases Remington 1100 112

GUNS & AMMO Magazine, Copyright 2016 by Outdoor Sportsman Group. All rights reserved.
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6 G & A m ay 2 0 1 6
READER
BLOWBACK

WRITE US! Letters, Guns & Ammo, 2 News Plaza, 3rd Floor,
Peoria, IL 61614, or email us at gaeditor@outdoorsg.com. Please
include your city and state of residence. Letters may be edited for
brevity and clarity.

.com/g&a

FAUX SECRETS &

INCORRECT SCIENCE

540.298.8906

I always enjoy my Guns & Ammo

magazine and anxiously run to the
mailbox every month like Ralphie
looking for his Little Orphan Annie
secret decoder to retrieve my latest
issue. I particularly enjoyed your
Guns & Gear of Benghazis Secret
Soldiers and the Taking Down
Terror articles. Having worked with
both communities, I found it interesting that the editors chose to black out
information on certain systems used
by the contractors, but not the quiet
professionals on the pointy end of
the spear. The enemy reads Guns
& Ammo as well as Janes.com, so the
faux secrecy may be cool and in line
with the ICs Ive got a secret and will
have to kill you if I tell you mentality,
but it should not have been paired
with a similar article outlining in detail
the equipment used in the UBL raid.
Give me a lever long enough and
a fulcrum on which to place it, and I
shall move the world, said Archimedes. The Understanding Bolt Lugs
column by Tom Beckstrand was very
informative, but missed the mark
on one thing. If I recall my physics

correctly, the length of the bolt handle

determines the ease of throw (among
other things). The length of the arc
may interfere with some scopes,
but has nothing to do with the force
required to rotate the bolt.
Darrall Henderson, Ph.D.
Lexington, Kentucky
Dr. Henderson, I appreciate your
interest in the article on bolt lugs and
their influence on handling characteristics of a rifle. Your quote and insight
about levers is 100-percent correct.
I would never disagree with you or
Archimedes. However, the statement
we need to be careful making is
where you say, the length of the bolt
handle determines the ease of throw.
That isnt entirely correct. The critical
component we need to examine is
the cocking ramp located on the bolts
underside at the very back of the bolt
body and just forward of the bolt
shroud. When we start tugging on
the bolt handle, this is where the real
action occurs. The 3-lug bolts with a
60-degree throw have a narrower and
shallower ramp that cocks the firing
pin in place when the bolt is opened.
The geometry of this cut has every-

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m ay 2 0 1 6 | r e A d e r b l o w b A c k

thing to do with the force

required to open the bolt.
The cocking ramp moves
the firing pin in place when
we open the action. As we
open the action, the firing
pin slides up this ramp
before catching on the sear
and cocking. Every firing
pin needs a fixed amount
of potential energy to det-

onate a primer regardless

of what action type it sits in.
The shallower 3-lug cocking
ramp requires a stiffer firing
pin spring because the
firing pin spring now has to
compensate for the energy
lost (relative to a 2-lug
action with its much deeper
ramp). The loss in potential
energy is due to the much

shorter axial movement of the shallower cocking ramp

found on a 3-lug action. The stiffer spring makes up for the
energy lost because of the shallower ramp, but requires
more force to compress. When we open an action, all
were doing is compressing the firing pin spring by sliding
the firing pin up the cocking ramp. The more bolt throw
we have in an action, the deeper our cocking ramp will be
and the more distance we have to compress our firing pin
spring. Since our firing pin spring represents nothing more
than potential energy, the longer cocking ramp represents
that longer lever Archimedes sought. The longer the
ramp (lever), the easier it is to get the
potential energy we need. While we
can make firing pins heavier (increasing lock time, which is never a good
thing) and play with reduced power
springs that have just enough energy
to make a primer fire, we can never
get around the effect a short throw
has on the geometry of the cocking
ramp. This is why a 3-lug action will
always be harder to open than a 2-lug
action assuming the bolt handles are
the same length.
T. Beckstrand

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MAGNUM STEEL
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ph: 435-865-5995 baschieri-pellagriusa.com

Glad to see Dana Loeschs column

Brass & Ballots in Guns & Ammo
magazine. Citing her friends experience with the concealed handgun
license (now LTC for License to Carry
Application) used a very limited example that doesnt do the Texas Department of Public Safetys (DPS) Handgun
Licensing Division justice. Im speaking
from the experience of a DPS-certified
instructor whose organization churns
out from 200 to 250 LTC students a
month. I cannot recall the DPS website
ever being down, but if it was, it
couldnt have been for more than a
day or so. Waiting until it was back up

10

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | r e A d e r b l o w b A c k

would have been a much

better option and would
have resulted in far less
hassle than trying to submit
paper application with notarized signatures. The paper
apps may go into a well
get to it when we can pile,
while the DPS processes
online applications and the
associated class completion

forms quite efficiently, especially when you consider

that changes in the gun
laws that affect their workload dont appear to come
with an increased budget
to handle the additional
workload. All in all, they do
a remarkable job.
david Freeman
North richland Hills, Texas

MULTIPLE QUESTIONS
I would like to start by saying thank you to those G&A
staffers who are currently serving or are veterans of
law enforcement or our nations military. I have some
questions for Mr. Sweeney regarding the ported barrels
on the M&P Shield in the January issue. Looking at the
picture, it appears the flash coming up from the ports is
incredibly bright. How would this affect quick follow-up
shots in dim or no-light situations? I would think that
much flash could impair a shooters night vision. Would
a wider port angle disperse the gases and flash more
effectively? Also, how much do
we lose in velocity with a ported
barrel? I own an XD subcompact in
9mm with a 3-inch barrel and am
wondering if I swap my barrel to a
4-inch barrel and add ports on the
extended length, would I lose any
velocity.
In an unrelated question, why
dont gun makers put a tighter
twist in their handguns as they do
with rifles? Would the effect on the
round be minimal over the shorter
distance? Keep up the great work.
John Paradis
redding, california

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3M, Peltor and SecureFit are trademarks of 3M.

John, Ill bet you were the kid in

class the teacher loved if they were
good at their job and hated if they
werent. The answers, in order: No,
the flash isnt a problem. In fact, the
photographer (Sean Utley) worked
hard to catch it and show it so well.
Theres no need for better dispersion. Mag-na-port started porting
guns decades ago. Ive since had
many firearms ported by them and
no, there is no velocity loss. (I even
did before-and-after testing to
prove it to myself.) Your barrel swap
may add velocity, and it may not.
Its not because of porting. Barrels
vary in the velocity they deliver on a
case-by-case basis. In my 1911s, my
fastest Commander-length barrel
(4 in.) is faster than my slowest
5-inch Government model. Go
figure. With some very rare mismatches that you have to work to
create, handgun twists are already
plenty fast enough to stabilize
bullets, and faster wont gain any
accuracy.
P. Sweeney

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EDITORIAL

m ay 2 0 1 6 G & A

13

Finding a pistol that

I didnt know I wanted.

TAIL WAGGING

ERIC R. POOLE
@GUNSANDAMMOMAG

Last year, Kimber introduced the Classic Carry Elite and

IT STARTED WITH AN ALLIGATOR. With Hoppy KempI lusted for it for weeks. With a superbly polished finish,
fers Osceola Outfitters in Florida (osceolaoutfitters.com),
this .45s slide was given a modest rose-gold accent for a
I was able to check a box on my bucket list and hunt a
border, which was also applied to the left side including
dinosaur. There I managed to harvest an elusive gator for
Kimbers scripted branding. At the time, I couldnt justify
its delicious meat and exotic hide. It was such an intense
spending nearly $2,500 for yet another 1911 just because I
and heart-stopping experience that I was hesitant to cut
up 10-feet of its rich, black leather for a pair of boots, belts now had an empty holster. I talked myself out of it.
or other common knickknacks.
Then, by coincidence, a Classic Carry Elite arrived at
Then, by chance, I came across
Guns & Ammos offices for review along with several other
a custom alligator-leather holster
new firearms. I didnt ask Kimber to send it, but
built by Galco. Based on the brands
I couldnt resist the temptation to test and
Concealable OWB design, this
evaluate it for myself. Results?
one was fit for a 1911.
This is a shooter. Group after
Like my gator hide,
group, load after load,
this was dyed black
the Classic Carry
and given a glassElite produced 2-inch
like edge treatment
five-shot clusters with
that Im told takes an
few exceptions. It only
experienced craftsman
took a little more than 5
eight days of handwork
pounds of clean pressure
Kimber
Classic
Carry
Elite
to achieve. I didnt think twice
to send the hammer forward,
Type:
Recoil
operated,
semiauto
about my willingness to put
which I find is a great trigger
Cartridge:
.45
ACP
down a couple of C-notes,
for a fighting handgun. A set of
Capacity: 8 + 1 rds.
which left me with a new
Meprolight night sights proved
Barrel: 5 in., stainless, match
problem.
bright through the twilight hours,
Overall Length: 8.7 in.
I am an enthusiastic coland the tactical wedge rear helps to subWeight: 2 lbs., 6 oz.
Grips:
French
walnut,
lector of 1911s and own
consciously direct our eye to the top of the
Micarta inlay, checkered
several significant pieces of
front sight. Though rich in color and grain,
Finish: High polished gunmetal
and PVD, rose gold accents
this pistols history ranging
the grips are more than functional, and their
Trigger:
5
lbs.,
4
oz.
(tested)
from pre-World War I rarities
checkering blends art with the tactile nature
Sights: Meprolight Tactical Wedge,
to contemporary military-isthat wraps around the frontstrap in 25 lines3-dot, tritium
MSRP: $2,495
sued replicas. Unfortunately,
per-inch fashion.
Manufacturer: Kimber, 888-243-4522
I couldnt imagine subjecting
I couldnt bring myself to carry one of my
kimberamerica.com
these 1911s to everyday carry
relics of war, but I can trust my life to the
so I considered purchasing
reliable performance of this Kimber.
my first high-end 1911 that could compliment the holster;
Id like to know about your tail wagging experiences.
one that I wouldnt hesitate to wear. I thought, Am I really
Email me at gaeditor@outdoorsg.com.
about to buy a gun just because I have a holster? Yes.
PERFORMANCE
I think the appropriate phrase is when the tail is wagging the dog. Admittedly, Im guilty of doing this preVELOCITY
BEST
AVERAGE
LOAD
(FPS)
ES
SD
GROUP
(IN.)
GROUP
(IN.)
viously. Ive bought more than one gun in my life for the
Black Hills 230-gr. FMJ
836
46 19
1.99
2.32
sole reason that I couldnt pass up a sweet deal for a good
Win. PDX1 230 gr.
936
60 23
2
2.37
quantity of an odd caliber of surplus ammo. (Dont be too
Horn. Crit. Def. 185 gr.
995
34 14
2.7
2.82
hard on me; Im sure youve done something similar at
Notes: Data is the average of five, five-shot groups fired from a benchrest at 25 yards.
least once or twice.)

GUN ROOM

may 2016 G & A

15

Well, thats one of the darndest things Ive

seen in a while and certainly qualifies as the
most unusual gun in this months column.

IDENTIFICATION
& VALUES
EARLY WALTHER PISTOL
Q: I would like to inquire about the history, value and
veracity of origin for a pistol I inherited from my grandfather, a World War II veteran. He served in Europe following D-Day and came home with this well-worn Walther,
S/N 69XXX, as a wartime souvenir. Stamped along the
left of the slide is Selbstlade-Pistole Cal 6,35 Walthers
Patent. with the Walther banner below. Along the right
is Carl Walther Waffenfabrik Zella-Mehlis I with three
stylized Ns and crowns stamped sideways on the slide,
barrel and trigger. One continuous groove along the
slides top, a knurled barrel cap and magazine release
located aft of the magazine well round out its features.
J.K.
Email
A: Your grandad brought back a Walther Model 5 6.35mm
(.25 ACP) semiauto pistol. These little guns were manufactured beginning in 1913 and were a slight upgrade from
the earlier Model 2, which came out some four years earlier.
These were well-made, popular little repeaters. The photos
indicate the condition of your heirloom leaves something
to be desired, but assuming it is complete and functional, it
is still worth between $125 and $150.

UNUSUAL S&W MODEL 586?

Q: I recently purchased a .357 Mag.,
Smith & Wesson Model 586-1 with an
8-inch barrel and four settings for
the front sight. It is in excellent condition, but I cant find it in the Blue
Book of Gun Values. Could you tell
me about the gun and its value?
B.B.
Virginia
A: The 586 Distinguished Combat
Magnum is a superb .357 revolver
that was offered in several variations between 1980 and 1999. Barrel
lengths were 4, 6 and 838 inches.
The 586-1 was introduced in 1986
with minor changes to the original,
which consisted of a floating hand
and radius stud package. Value in 90

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to 95 percent condition is
between $400 and $450.

RECONSTITUTED
REMINGTON
Q: Im sending photographs of a blackpowder
rifle that has been handed
down through my family.
The only original components are the barrel,
double-set trigger and
hardware from the original
stock and ramrod. The
wood was dry-rotted and
pretty much destroyed by
carpenter ants. The stock
is a duplicate of what the
original looked like so that
I could use the original
hardware. The double-set
triggers work well with a
replacement hammer/lock
I found. After soaking the
barrel in Kroil oil, it cleaned

THE AUCTION BLOCK

A cased Luger Carbine with matching stock sold for
a respectable $12,650, including premiums, at the
Oct. 7, 2015, James D. Julia auction. This .30 caliber,
Model 1902 carbine is in about 98-percent condition.
It has an 11-inch barrel, three-position rear sight
and dished toggle ears. The bore is mirror-like, the
mechanics are perfect, and its stock is in pristine
condition with sharp checkering and minimal
blemishes. The gun comes in a contemporary black
leather presentation case with a brass designation
plate on the lid. For more information about this and
future auctions, contact James D. Julia, jamesdjulia.
com, 207-453-7125.

up and the pictures show

its condition and surprisingly even some original
finish. The pictures of the
rifle are a very good depiction of how, I believe, it
originally looked. Ive been
unable to find any history
on early Remington barrels
and am hoping you can tell
me more about this family
heirloom. Thank you for
your time.
J.W.L.
Email
A: First off, I must congratulate you for doing a
beautiful job on the rifle.
Given that the majority
of the piece was virtually
non-existent, you got the
lines just about perfect.
Remington traces its origins
back to 1816 when the
founder, Eliphalet, and his
blacksmith father decided
they could build better rifle
barrels than were currently
available. After checking
out the competitions wares,
young Eliphalet began
turning out rifled barrels of
exceptional quality to be
sold as separate components to those who wanted
to fabricate their own guns.
The next logical step was
to produce a complete
rifle, and this he did. The
resulting flintlock half-stock
performed so well in local
competitions that demand
for Remington rifles turned
the father and son from

16

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | G u n r o o m

blacksmithing into full-time

gun manufacturing. By
1828, the company became
so successful that it moved
to larger quarters in Ilion,
New York. Early Remington
rifles, while of excellent
quality, closely followed
the lines of other sporters
of the period and, with the
exception of the barrels, still
employed locks supplied
from other sources, which
were stamped with the
Remington name. Because
of this, there is much speculation as to when the first
long arms wholly produced
by Remington really did
appear. I hope this tells you
what you want to know.

CONVERTED
REVOLVER RIFLE

several years ago. It is

made up from a Freeman
pistol, however, it has no
stamping on it at all, just
a number on the inside
of the pistol grip frame.
Caliber is marked .32 rF or
a special cartridge made
with a percussion nipple at
the rear. I have seen this
type of category in foreign
shotguns made betweet
1840 and 1850. The wire
stock is hand-forged and of
mediocre workmanship but
the rest of the rifle is very
professionally made. The
forearm is drilled to hold a
cleaning rod but the thimble on the barrel is missing.
Please let me know your
ideas on this.
G.B.
Arkansas

Q: Enclosed are photos

of a firearm I purchased

A: Well, thats one of

the darndest things Ive

seen in a while, and it
certainly qualifies as the
most unusual gun in this
months column. As you
note, it was built up on a
Freeman revolver, which
was originally a .44-caliber
percussion six-shooter.
Some 2,000 Freemans were
made in 1863 to 1864 and in
original condition are scarce
and fairly pricey. Your rifle
looks like it was pretty well
made, I must admit. It is
obviously the work of some
relatively skilled gunsmith.
Too bad it isnt marked,
as it would be interesting
to know who he was. The
rotating block arrangement
was not unique at the time
of manufacture, which Im
guessing was some time
in the 1870s. The cartridge
with the percussion nipple

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did go back a ways and

was used in rifles, shotguns
and pistols one of the
most notable being the
extremely rare Confederate Cofer revolver. As Im
inclined to think your piece
is unique, I cannot tell you
much more about it other
than I think its rather cool!

MODEL 1950 S&W

Q: I bought this 1950
model Smith & Wesson in
1952. I dont see it listed
with other models of S&W
and often wonder if its a
frame of its own, or one
of the other S&W frames.
The pistol hasnt been shot
a lot but has some holster
wear. The serial number is
93XXX. Any idea what it
might be worth?
B.W.
Idaho

g u n r o o m | m ay 2 0 1 6

A: The Smith & Wesson

.45 Hand Ejector Model of
1950, Military (there were
also a couple of target models), was introduced in 1951.
It was a square-butt N-frame
that was redesignated as
the Model 22 in 1956. As
such, it was manufactured
until 1955. The 1950 was a
fine revolver, based on the
earlier .45 ACP Model 1917
but with some improvements. These are fine guns;
theyre one of my favorite
S&Ws, for whatever thats
worth. Slightly less than
4,000 were made from 1951
to 1966 under both monikers. From the photo you
sent, your 1950 looks to be
in about 98 percent condition and it has its original
box. As such, according to
the Thirty-Sixth Edition
Blue Book of Gun Values

(bluebookofgunvalues.
com), its worth $1,800, and
Id tack on another couple
of C-notes for the box. If
you also have the original
instructions, thats even
better.

WORLD WAR II PPK

BRING-BACK
Q: I would like to come up
with an estimate of value
for this Walther that my
Dad brought home from
World War II. It was taken
from a german soldier
during a conflict and has
german Eagle markings all
over it. I hope they show in
the photos I sent.
At one time we
researched the Walther
serial number, and I
remember it was manufactured in 1941, but Im not
positive. It is in very good

condition. Ive shot it and

it handled like a dream.
The only problem Ive
seen with it is the original
magazine. At the bottom
is a strap of metal that is
cracked, allowing the base
plate to push up on the
rounds and jam the pistol.
I bought another magazine
for it and that solved the
problem. my insurance
company is arguing with
me about the value. Ive
stated its worth and they
would like some kind of
corroboration on it.
H.C.
Sandpoint, Idaho
A: This ones pretty straightforward. From the photos, I
notice the pistol has eagle
N proofs and a small
eagle C mark on the
frame behind the trigger-

g&A

17

guard. The former indicate

the gun was made after
1940, as up until that time
the standard proof was a
crown N. The latter is a
police mark. Condition on
your pistol looks to be about
85 percent or so, and as
such is worth in the $1,000
to $1,200 range. Normally,
police guns are in quite nice
shape and thats what collectors expect to see when they
run across one.

SHOTGUN/
PISTOL INFO
Q: The following is a
letter my friend gave to
me about a shotgun and
a pistol that he would like
additional information
about: The double-barrel
shotgun was brought from
Tennessee by my great
grandfather in 1856. He

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Legal Protection
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18

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | G u n r o o m

HAVE AN HEIRLOOM? Curious

about a vintage firearm? Email

Garry at garry.james@outdoor
sg.com, or send a description
with detailed photos to Gun
room, Guns & Ammo, 2 news
Plaza, 3rd Floor, Peoria, IL
61614. Please include your
name and state of residence.
Due to the volume of requests
each month, personal replies
are not possible. The most
interesting or unusual queries
are answered in Guns & Ammo
magazine.

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Seven Serpents: The History of Colts Snake Guns,

By Gurney Brown, Blue
Book Publications, Inc.,
Minneapolis, Minnesota,
344 pages.
Unless you have been living
in a hermetically sealed
bubble over the last couple
of years, its highly likely
youve heard of the dramatic
upsurge in the interest in
Colt Snake Guns Cobra,
Python, Diamondback,
Viper, Boa, King Cobra and
Anaconda. Until recently,
there really hasnt been one
book that comes to mind
that covers them exclusively
in detail. This lack has now
been corrected with Gurney
Browns new work, Seven
Serpents. The large-format,
full-color tome, while light
on text, tells the enthusiast everything he needs to
know about these arms.
Gorgeously mounted by
Blue Book Publications,
there are over 350 full-color,
full-page illustrations of each
arm, serial number charts,
ephemera and histories
everything the enthusiast
needs to know and more. If
youre looking to get into the
snake-gun game, this is the
book to have. It is available
from Blue Book Publications,
bluebookofgunvalues.com,
800-877-4867. $99.95

and his two oldest sons returned to

Tennessee and fought in the Confederate Army using the gun. Afterward
they returned to Texas. The barrels
are 40 inches long and the metal strip
between each barrel is engraved,
JAmES ConnInG, moBIL AL
surrounded with fancy scrollwork.
on each side beneath the houndshead hammers is H & JW KInG, also
surrounded by scrollwork. The gun is
in unrestored condition with original
wood ramrod and Damascus barrels.
I would like information about age,
manufacturer and value, if at all possible. The pistol also came from my
great grandfather from Tennessee,
but Im not sure if it was used in the
Civil War. It is in fairly rough condition
with a piece of wood by the barrel
on the hammer side missing. The
only information available on it is A
WATErS mILBurY mS 1838 beneath
the hammer. The pistol is approximately 15-inches long. Both the shotgun and the pistol are approx. .50
Cal/10 gauge.
P.B.
Email
A: First the shotgun. James Conning
was a Mobile, Alabama, gunmaker
who operated between 1841 and
1875. He was also an importer and
marketer of guns and swords. As
the locks are marked H&JW King,
Im inclined to think the gun was of
domestic production, manufactured
from parts available from various
venders though the barrels, being
Damascus, could be of foreign origin.
The pistol is a .54 U.S. Model 1836.
These beautiful U.S. martial flintlocks
were made by Asa Waters of Millbury,
Massachusetts, and Robert Johnson
of Middletown, Connecticut, between
1836 and 1841. Large numbers were
converted to percussion and did see
Civil War usage. Without actually
seeing the guns, I really cant help you
with a valuation.

MYSTERY DAN WESSON

REVOLVER
Q: A friend of ours recently brought
me a revolver that belonged to her

m ay 2 0 1 6

G&A

19

late husband and is curious of its

value. It is a Dan Wesson Arms .357
revolver. I cannot find a model name
or number anywhere on it. Everything
in Blue Book of Gun Values has
a model name or number. I would
imagine it was referred to with a
model number at one time, but I have
no idea what that might have been.
The revolver appears to have a
changeable barrel, as I can see the
nut on the end, while the barrel
and shroud appear to be separate
pieces. She did not bring me the
barrel wrench, so I do not know if she
has it or even knows where it might
be. It has few rust spots that I think
can be somewhat cleaned up but
it does not look like its been maintained in quite awhile. The cylinder
lockup seems tight with no slop, and
the trigger pull is smooth in double
action and crisp in single action. It
appears to be in good shape mechanically. There is some wear in the bluing near the end of the barrel shroud,
as well as a ding on the right side of
the front sight and corner of the end
of the barrel shroud. I dont know if
the gun was dropped or banged into
something. The grips show wear and
the grip finish has some bubbling on
the bottom and backside. The initials
DWA are found inside one of the
grip panels. An oval appears on both
sides as seen in the pictures. The only
markings I can find on the gun are:
DAN WESSON ARMS/ 357 MAGNUM CTG, DAN WESSON ARMS
MONSON, MASS. U.S.A. 146XXX.
Id appreciate any information on this
revolver, including an approximate
value.
D.D.
Email
A: From your description and the photos, it looks like you have a reasonably
early (probably sometime in the 1970s)
Dan Wesson Model 15 Target Model.
Monson, Massachusetts, was the early
address; the firm moved to Palmer,
Massachusetts, in 1992. The gun looks
to be in about 90 percent condition
and as such, is worth in the $425 to
$450 range.

m ay 2 0 1 6 G & A

A lockable OWB box that conceals.

21

T H E C A R RY R I G

The ABDO is referred to as a portable

firearm safe. This is largely due to
the fact that it can be secured like a
mini-lockbox with a plastic key, which
can be carried on a key ring. To open
when unlocked, simply slide the springloaded latch and the hinged door springs
open. $49

EAA ABDO
IT LOOKS LIKE A CELLPHONE CASE, I was
told. The ABDO measured 4.24-inches wide and
6.37-inches tall. Perhaps a case for an iPhone 6
Plus or a Samsung Galaxy S, I thought in return.
Its not small, but it does hide a gun outside the
waistband (OWB).
The ABDO isnt for every gun. In fact, European American Armory (EAA) offers a continuously updated fit list on its website
(theabdo.com) as well as a sticker applied to the
back above the belt clip for quick reference.
The fit list includes the Diamondback DB380,
Kel-Tec P-3AT, Seecamp .32 ACP, Ruger LCP, Beretta
Pico, North American Arms Guardian in .32 and .380 ACP,
Smith & Wesson Bodyguard, and multiple models of the
Taurus 738 TCP. Open the ABDO and youll find a plastic
dowel rod that inserts inside the barrel to orient the pistol
vertically. This keeps it from falling out when we slide the
release button causing the door to swing down and open.
Because the rod measures 2.64 inches in length, the typical .380 cartridge has an overall length of .95 inch and the
barrels of these .32s and .380s average 2.82 inches from
breechface to muzzle, the math quickly confirms that the

length of the rod doesnt let us carry one of these pistols

with a round in its chamber. To make ready, we have to
either spend an extra half-second charging the slide on a
gun only carrying the rounds we can stuff in its magazine,
or cut down the rod as much as half an inch or more.
The ABDO is ambidextrous. Should you want to carry it
on the left side, simply remove two small stainless Phillips-head screws from the back panel to relocate the barrel
rod to the other side and reinstall. The only difference
between carrying the ABDO on one side versus the other

22

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | t h e c A r ry r i G

is the operation of the sliding latch.

Right-handed users pull the latch back
to open, and left-handed users push
the latch forward.
Also included with the ABDO is a
brown foam pad. EAA recommends
that this pad be placed on the wall of
the case so that it pushes the pistol
out slightly and presents it better for
the draw. I used this pad differently,
placing it on the inside of the door
to gently push against the pistol to
help minimize the rattling sounds as I
walked and moved about.
Construction is solid, and future
models promise to include smart
features including GPS tracking,
remote locking and unlocking, and a
self-aware alarm system that automatically locks when removed from a belt
without authorization.

The EAA ABDO disguises one of several compatible .32 or .380 ACP pistols as if it were a
protective cellphone case. EAA even went as far as to mold a device icon to suggest so.

30-Day carry I broke a prototype. Sitting in my office chair

on Day One, the ABDO caught the armrest and flew off,
hitting the floor. When it hit, the door opened and the pistol slid a few feet across the floor. To my relief, the Ruger

LCP wasnt loaded since I was just getting a feel for wearing it. A call to EAA resulted in a replacement, and I was
told that my original ABDO had an old plastic clip design
on a stainless hinge. The new one features a spring-steel
clip with four screws securing it to the back of the case.
I wore the ABDO almost continuously for more than 30

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G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | t h e c A r ry r i G

EAA
Materials
Carry Type
Retention Type
Adjustability
MSRP
Handgun Fit
Accessory Rail Accommodations
Positions to Carry
Average Time to Attach
Comfort Rating
Concealment Clothing
Average Draw-to-Fire Time
Manufacturer

1.84 in.

ABDO (Ambidextrous)
Black plastic (case body); spring steel (clip)
OWB
Level 2, enclosed case with opening latch and keyed lock
None
$49 (as tested)
Ruger LCP (tested), Diamondback DB380, Kel-Tec P-3AT and others
Yes, microlights and laser units
Hung on a belt or inside a bag/purse
2 seconds
3/5
None required, untucked shirt or overgarment recommended
2.45 seconds
EAA, 321-639-4842, theabdo.com

Draw-to-fire time is the average of five clean draws from concealment within the ABDO (unlocked) producing an A-zone hit on a stationary
target positioned at 21 feet.

days. Only one person commented on the large cellphone case I was wearing on my hip in public. That said,
if you hide some of the ABDO with an untucked shirt or
overgarment, most people never notice.
At the range, it worked as described. Since I do not recommend .380s or guns of a smaller caliber as alternatives to
carrying bigger-bullet guns as your primary sidearm, I view
this system as a back-up option. You may have a different opinion. Its not overpriced, so if you do purchase the

ABDO, I strongly recommend

many sessions at the range
getting familiar with the product and its operation with your
chosen pistol before potentially
putting your life or the lives of
others on the line with what
youre hiding inside.
Eric R. Poole

Accessorizing
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THE TLR-6 NOW FITS 18 + SUBCOMPACT MODELS.

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Model #69270 Fits:

Glock 42, Glock 43

Model #69274 Fits:

Kahr Arms CT9, CW9, CM9, CT40, CW40,
CM40, TP9, P9, PM9, TP40, P40 and PM40

Model #69276 Fits:

Kimber Micro

Model #69273 Shown

Model #69272 Fits:

Glock 26, Glock 27, Glock 33

Model #69273 Fits:

M&P Shield 40, M&P Shield 9

Model #69275 Fits:

Sig Sauer P238, Sig Sauer P938

All Rights Reserved. M&P Shield, GLOCK , SIG SAUER , KIMBER ,& KAHR are registered trademarks of Smith & Wesson, Glock,Inc., Sig Sauer, KIMBER, IP LLC & Saeilo Enterprises, Inc.
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6.37 in.

24

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And over sixty years of hunting experience.
But we dont make them to tell our story.
We do it so you can write your own.

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To see what theyll do in yours.

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26

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

m ay 2 0 1 6

INTRODUCING THE
KIMBER K6s IN .357 MAGNUM.
words by patrick sweeney

| photos by sean utley

G&A

27

28

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | t h e s u n r i s e s i n t h e w e s t

K6s
Revolver, hammer fired
.38 Special/.357 Magnum
6 rds.
2 in.
6.62 in.
1.39 in.
1 lb., 7 oz.
Stainless steel
Crimson Trace, blue rubber
Black, serrated, drift adj.
8 lbs., 8 oz. (tested);
Double Action Only (DAO)
MSRP: $899
Manufacturer: Kimber Mfg., Inc.,
888-243-4522
kimberamerica.com

Kimber
Type:
Cartridge:
Capacity:
Barrel:
Overall length:
Width:
Weight:
Finish:
Grips:
Sights:
Trigger:
the Kimber K6s does not use
typical slotted screws. not only
are modern fasteners more
durable and less likely to let our
tools slip and mar the finish,
they can be tightened down
more than conventional screws.

the printout from

the hydraulic test rig
shows the unusual
trigger pull of the
K6s. Once we get
the trigger moving
and the cylinder
turning, there is no
stacking. stacking is
the bane of fast and
accurate shooting.

A COMMON JOKE IN SOME CIRCLES is to mention an

outrageous change, and then comment about how it predicts
impending doom or the apocalypse of man.
The polar ice cap is melting, were doomed!
Big sodas are a scourge and must be banned!
Kimber is making a revolver!
Wait, what? That last one is real.
That was my reaction when I was let in on the secret months
ago. I had been getting vague updates, but I could only guess
until it was in my hands. When I found out, it was one of those
I-have-to-sit-down occasions.
I received more details followed by even more head scratching. A six-shot, stainless revolver thats no larger than a five-shot
J-frame. Howd they do that? And when can I shoot one? The
shooting public was let in on the secret at this years SHOT Show.

A marvelous engineering feat, Kimber

packed six rounds
into a cylinder no
greater in diameter
than one that otherwise would hold five
rounds.

At Media Day at the Range, we finally had a chance to shoot

it. Even representatives from other companies were lining up to
check out the new Kimber K6s. I took a turn, hammered out a
few cylinders full, and was struck by several aspects. The main
takeaways? Wow, thats a nice trigger pull. For a snubbie firing
full-house .357s, it wasnt abusive in recoil either.

Guns & Ammo is now available

for iPad, Kindle and Nook

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FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.GUNSANDAMMO.COM/APPS/

30

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | t h e s u n r i s e s i n t h e w e s t

A snubbie fed
hot loads is
going to be a
flamethrower.
thats just a
part of life and
worth remembering when
shooting the
K6s indoors.

Crimson trace manufactured these grips for Kimber, and they

certainly ease the recoil of .357s. Your choice: laser or no laser?

It took another month before G&A could get range time with
one. Part of the reason for the long lead time, I discovered, was
partly due to the CAD/CAM manufacturing process. We talked at
length with Ron Dudzic, K6s product engineer, about this.
We used modern design and stress analysis software to refine
the design. We made 3D plastic models and handled them. They
felt great. Then we fired up the machines and made some metal
prototypes to testfire. And thats when we found that the sleek,
curved backstrap

t h e s u n r i s e s i n t h e w e s t | m ay 2 0 1 6

At this point I couldnt help myself, I

jumped in and said, Caused the muzzle
to roll up to the ceiling when you shot it.
Yes, Dudzic replied.
Even in this digital age companies have
to make real prototypes and test them,
because in the real world, real people use
their real product for real reasons. I have
to give Kimber credit here. Many companies, having already made the investment
in programming time and CNC pre-production tooling. The demands of todays
market would have simply forged ahead
with that design rather than started over.
But start over Kimber did, resulting in a
new backstrap arch to keep the muzzle
from rolling up. While they were at it,
they also made the shape comfortable to
shoot, at least for a snubbie magnum.
That change delayed the introduction
while they reprogrammed and made new
samples. Having been bitten once, Kimber
was not about to be bitten twice, so those
new samples were mercilessly trashed in
testing before anyone outside of the company had a chance to see or shoot them.
The two guns the media shot at
Range Day were second pre-production
prototypes of the new design. They were
test-fired more than enough to make sure
theyd survive a day of heavy-handed gun
writer lust and skepticism. Kimber had
spares on hand and fingers crossed.
They shouldnt have worried; the K6s
was the hit of the show. Everyone was
agog over it, and people Id never met
were stopping me in the aisles, asking,
Have you seen the new Kimber revolver?
But modern manufacturing has many
more details to take care of than hamhanded gun writers. Without boring you
with the jargon of this business, every
detail has to be tracked, the dimensions
established, and then there is the attention
Kimber paid to assembly. In modern manufacturing systems, the assemblers need
the tools to assemble the firearms quickly,
efficiently and without the potential to
cause cosmetic problems. Kimber made
sure that went smoothly.
What had been planned as a product
available to all after SHOT Show shifted to
being available in May. And again, kudos
to Kimber for the delay, as the revolver
shooters buy will be the better for it.
OK, now onto the fun stuff.

the rear sight is serrated, low-profile and

a perfect design for a night-sight upgrade.

G&A

31

the front sight is a blade pinned into the

barrel. it will be easy to change if needed.

32

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | t h e s u n r i s e s i n t h e w e s t

in addition
to clean and
modern lines of
the frame, the
cylinder latch is
a flat, low-profile
button that is
pressed into the
frame to access
the cylinder.

W292S4498 Hillside Rd, Waukesha, WI 53189, Tel: 262-896-6780, Fax: 262-896-6756

www.midwestindustriesinc.com

The action on the K6s is smooth

and slick. Its on par with a tricked-out
revolver from back in the day. This is not
a custom or even semi-custom trigger. The
triggers I experienced were production
triggers complete with the normal parts
finish and assembly. If anything, by the
time you pull one of these triggers they
could feel a bit better, as Kimber will have
had more time to refine their processes.
The action is an internal hammer with
floating firing pin. And theres a transfer
bar safety blocking the hammer. The CAD/
CAM time Kimber spent on design has
paid off big yielding a great trigger pull.
Whats more, it is the easiest action to
stage that I have ever felt. Staging is a
double-action shooting method where
shooters use the trigger to bring the
cylinder up to the next cartridge. It locks
the cylinder in place, where the action
has been brought to the equivalent of
single-action already cocked. Treat it as
if it were cocked, if you need to pause
during the process and refine your aim.
This is a lot easier with some actions than
others. The K6s action does not preclude
the other DA shooting method: a single,
straight pull through the action. You can
do either. Both are remarkable.
Another notable feature was that the
trigger did not move until it reached the
required pull. Once we stage the action,
there is no more extra force needed. That
is, once we have the trigger pull up to 8
pounds, the trigger started moving and
the cylinder started rotating. It took a few
more ounces to rotate the cylinder, but
once the cylinder locked up, it does not
require any more trigger weight to complete the trigger movement. The trigger
just slides back to the end of its travel,
and the hammer falls. It doesnt stack.
Stacking is where we get the cylinder up
and the hammer back, and then we have
to add even more force more trigger
weight to make it fire. Stacking is bad
for speed and bad for accuracy.
Kimbers specs list the trigger pull at 9
to 10 pounds, but none of the measurements I took with the Lyman trigger-pull
gauge registered more than 9 pounds.
If you handed the K6s to someone,
asked them to dry-fire it and then asked
what they thought the pull was, no one
wouldve said 10 pounds. Its that good.

t h e s u n r i s e s i n t h e w e s t | m ay 2 0 1 6

Kimber doesnt use a trigger gauge; they

have sophisticated and expensive hydraulic-operated force gauges to measure and
record the trigger pull. The graph shows
exactly what I felt: The force goes up to
load the trigger and work the action, but
once it is locked, the graph is a flat line to
bang. Where was this action when I shot
Duty class in PPC competition? In those
days, we paid good money for an action
job that did what this K6s does right out
of the box.
The design effort also allowed Kimber
to pull off a marvelous feat: six shots this
small revolver. The K6s cylinder holds six
rounds and is chambered in .357 Magnum. The cylinder has to be tough to handle this. Kimber offset the cylinder bolt so
the locking slots in the cylinder could be
as far away from the individual chambers
as possible. Students of solid geometry
will realize that the further we move the
locking bolt off the cylinder axis, the more
difficult it is to keep it fully engaged with
the cylinder slot. Kimber did the work,
and we get six in the size of five.
This allowed engineers to indulge in
a new cylinder contour. Since only the
locking slot radius has to be a cylinder,
Kimber milled flats around the chambers,
turning the cylinder into a rounded hexagon forward of the locking slot radius. I
havent met anyone that doesnt like it.
I asked Dudzic if they heat-treat the
parts before or after machining, and he
answered with a wry smile: Yes and yes.
In the vernacular of the machinist,
annealed stainless steel is gummy and
not much fun to machine. So Kimber does
an initial heat-treatment to the frame,
sideplate, crane and cylinder, and then
machines them in their state-of-the-art
five-axis CNC centers. Then each part gets
its own particular additional heat-treatment program to provide just the right
combination of hardness and toughness.
Being all steel, the K6s has a comforting
heft to it, which became even more comforting when it came time to testfire.
With .38s, the K6s is a pussycat. Even
+Ps are no big deal. I can see the K6s
becoming the new benchmark for those
using a revolver for defense. On the other
hand, shooting the .357 reminds us that
weve just touched off a heavy-hitter. But
it wasnt abusive.

G&A

Kimber decision
to offer the
K6s as a .357
Magnum gives
us the option to
shoot .38s. which
will serve you
best? the author
suggests that
new users work
their way up to
the Magnum.

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33

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Ph: 850-408-5161

www.ThompsonMachine.net

34

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | t h e s u n r i s e s i n t h e w e s t

PERFORMANCE .38 SPECIAL

SD

BEST
GROUP
(IN.)

AVERAGE
GROUP
(IN.)

81

33

1.89

2.92

727

57

24

2.03

3.33

Hornady 110-gr. FTX

872

46

19

2.37

3.13

SIG Sauer 125-gr. V-Crown+P

827

58

25

3.12

3.5

VELOCITY
(FPS)

ES

Winchester Defend 130-gr. JHP

765

Winchester Train 130-gr. FMJ

LOAD

notes: Accuracy results are the average of five, five-shot groups at 15 yards using a sandbagged rest. Chronograph results are the average of 5 shots measured at 15 feet using an
Oehler Model 35 Proof.

PERFORMANCE .357 MAGNUM

SD

BEST
GROUP
(IN.)

AVERAGE
GROUP
(IN.)

56

21

1.55

4.59

1,031

2.14

3.12

Hornady 158-gr. JHP/XTP*

1,192

48

19

2.9

3.51

Remington 158-gr. L-SWC

981

111

49

4.06

4.69

VELOCITY
(FPS)

ES

SIG Sauer 125-gr. FMJ

1,245

Black Hills (red) 158-gr. JHP

LOAD

notes: Accuracy results are the average of five, five-shot groups at 15 yards using a sandbagged rest. Chronograph results are the average of 5 shots, measured at 15 feet using an
Oehler Model 35 Proof. *The Hornady .357 accuracy was average of four, five-shot groups.

In all candor I must admit a certain failing of mine: My hand

finds every sharp edge on a firearm. I grip a revolver so high on
the frame that if there had been an exposed hammer on this one,
it would have been pressing against my hand in DA shooting.
The grips that were on my original test sample was laminated
hardwood. They looked good and felt good, but had one corner
that bit me until I bled. That corner will not be there on the
production revolvers because Kimber is shipping the K6s with
Crimson Trace rubber grips in a unique blue-gray color. (I tested
this sample two weeks later for Guns & Ammo TV with excellent
results.) When these revolvers cross the gun counter, well have a
choice of grips with a Crimson Trace laser or without.
In terms of daily carry, short barrels are great but they do trim
velocity. That said, the K6s delivered impressive numbers with
the .357 Magnum loads, and the .38s were zippy for being soft to

m ay 2 0 1 6

G&A

35

Kimber is already machining speedloaders

for the K6s. Youll want more than one.

shoot. What you cant get around is muzzle blast. A 2-inch barrel is going to be a
flame-thrower with most .357 loads. The
laws of physics apply here. No amount
of design effort on the part of Kimber is
going to prevent muzzle flash. For that
we would have to ask the ammunition
companies to assist.
The .38 Specials faired better in the
accuracy department than the .357s. Keep
in mind that even the largest .357 group
was smaller than the apparent width
of the front sight on the target, and the
smallest .357 groups were brag-worthy.
The last takeaway to remember about
the K6s is with the sleek design. The sights
are replaceable. The front is pinned in,
and the rear is a special dovetail. Nightsight companies are already hard at work
creating replacements for the front and
rear. The cylinder release is a push-in
button type. There is no pulling back or
pushing forward, which keeps the sides
of the frame slim. And last, the sideplate
screws are not slotted screws, they are
modern fasteners, and the K6s comes
with a wrench that fits. They designed the
sideplate fit so it blends in with the lines of
the frame. The result of all these cosmetic
details is that the K6s is clearly a revolver,
but it is a 21st century revolver. It is more
Art Deco than Art Nouveau.
The price? Well, the MSRP is a dollar
under nine Benjamins, which will be a
bit steep to many. Twenty to 30 years ago,
$410 was not an unreasonable price for
an all-stainless, hammerless .38 Special
and it only held five shots. Now, I can
have six, in .357, for the modern-day
equivalent cost. There isnt much else to
complain about. (Not to mention the cost
of an action job, grips and sights.) I think
Kimber is going to have to hire an extra
shift to keep up.

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SIGAMMO.COM

m ay 2 0 1 6

G&A

Several pistols are new from the ground

up. Others are line extensions. many are
models that you and I have been asking
about for a while. They are all handguns
you should know about. PATRICK SWEENEY

is the annual
trade show for the firearm
industry, and it is a sight to
behold. The space is so vast that people literally navigate by landmarks. The
2016 event proved to be the year of
the 9mm. Almost every 1911 maker is
even offering a 9, and the tactical arena
is making another catch-up to the competition world. Trends this year suggest
that .380 is hot again, and 9mm ammo
is subplanting the need for .40 to exist.
Red dot sight pistols are in demand, and
colored guns are the rage. Heres a short
list of our favorites to follow up with.
he shot show

37

38

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

BERETTA M9A3

PRO

CON

Attractive FDE You still have

color and all to want a large
the features we service pistol.
could want.

BOTTOM
LINE
The Beretta
92/M9 in
perfected
form.

In an attempt to lengthen the 30-year

service record of the M9 and M9A1 pistols
with the U.S. military, early last year Beretta
offered Uncle Sam the M9A3 featuring
every product improvement made to the
92-series since its introduction. Without
even giving it a hard look, Uncle Sam
replied no thanks in favor of the MHS
pistol competition. Beretta moved forward
to offer the ultimate 92 to the civilian
market. Hence, we win. The M9A3 benefits
from 17-round PVD sand-resistant mags,
the Vertec frame and an optional grip
that arches the backstrap for the feel of
a traditional 92/M9. The dustcover now
integrates the M9A1 dustcover for lights
and lasers, and the safety is also improved.
Replaceable night sights are now standard.
beretta.com $1,100

TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT
TRIGGER

Semiautomatic
9mm
17+1 rds.
5.1 in.
8.7 in.
5 lbs., 8 oz.
9 lbs., 8 oz.

TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT
TRIGGER

Semiautomatic
.45 ACP
7+1 rds.
5.5 in.
8.5 in.
2 lbs., 8 oz.
3 lbs., 8 oz.

COLT LIGHTWEIGHT COMMANDER

TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT
TRIGGER

Semiautomatic
9mm
9+1 rds.
4.25 in.
7.75 in.
1 lb., 13 oz.
3 lbs., 8 oz.

The Colt Lightweight Commander was

once the go-to carry gun for serious 1911
users. The original has also been the most
gunsmithed because it needed it in order
to be a better carry gun. Well, Colt has
taken care of that. This new version comes
in 9mm as well as the classic .45 ACP, and
has been given Novak sights and Wilsons
High Ride beavertail. The frontstrap needs
no extra work as it has already been lifted
for a higher grip. The polished carbon-steel slide slabs and the wood-looking
G10 stocks set off the matte aluminum
frame. The price is a lot less than weve
come to expect from Colt these days.
colt.com $949

PRO

CON

An affordable,
light and carry-ready 1911
Commander.

Its still only

available as a
single-stack.

BOTTOM
LINE
Now we dont
have to go
custom with
our 1911s.

ED BROWN SPECIAL FORCES SR

PRO

CON

BOTTOM

The most kitted Our wallets are

LINE
out Ed Brown
empty or Worth aspiring
1911 ever.
will be.
to.

One of the preeminent custom 1911

builders, Ed Brown, now operated by Eds
son Travis, has the reputation of a classic
even conservative 1911 builder. Imagine
our surprise at seeing a 1911 set up for a
suppressor, with a red dot sight milled into
the slide and sights that will clear most
suppressor diameters. Thats right, the
Special Forces Custom Rail Gun now can
be had in not only suppressor-ready trim,
but also with a red dot sight. Put a lightand-laser combo on its rail, and you are so
far from the original 1911A1 in appearance
that even granddads head might spin. But
its still built to heirloom quality and should
run forever.
edbrown.com $3,995

m ay 2 0 1 6

G&A

39

GLOCK 17/19 MOS

PRO

CON

This gun is
cheaper than
paying to have
your slide
milled.

Optic not
included and
can rival the
price of the
gun.

BOTTOM
LINE
Glock is paying
attention again.

After the reception Glock received with its

Modular Optic System (MOS) G40, it was
certain that the option would find its way to
other models. The surprise wasnt that they
did it right away, but that they went right to
the original Glock pistols, the G17 and the
G19. In defensive carry, red dot sights are
becoming a new norm. Weve even seen
these types of modifications impacting
USPSA with the creation of its new Carry
Optic Division. Glock simplified mounting
of these optics so we dont have to pay a
gunsmith or machinist for the costly machining of the pistols slide.
glock.com $770

TYPE Semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE 9mm
CAPACITY 17+1 rds. (G17)
15 + 1 rds. (G19)
BARREL 4.48 in. (G17)
4.02 in. (G19)
OAL 8.03 in. (G17)
7.36 in. (G19)
WEIGHT 1 lb., 9 oz. (G17)
1 lb., 8 oz. (G19)
TRIGGER 5 lbs., 8 oz.

HONOR DEFENSE

PRO

CON

Affordable
and holds
more than six
rounds.

The jury is out

on this newbie.

BOTTOM
LINE
The compact
carry wars are
still hot.

Honor Defense is a new company out of

Gainesville, Georgia, and they make a
compact, striker-fired 9mm carry pistol.
So what? you ask. Simple. At the show,
we picked one up out of curiosity, and
for a moment could not speak. It was the
best-feeling pistol we handled that day.
Removing the magazine from a pistol as
compact as a trim single-stack, this one
holds eight rounds of 9mm and is loaded
with features. Best of all, Honor Defense
pistols are 100 percent U.S.-made. A
thumb-safety model is also available. G&A
is anxiously looking forward to testing a
sample in the near future.
honordefense.com $500

KIMBER K6s
TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT
TRIGGER

Revolver
.38/.357 Mag.
6 rds.
2 in.
6.62 in.
1 lb., 7oz.
8 lbs.

You could have knocked us over with a

feather when we were told that Kimber
was making a revolver. And at SHOT, you
had to brave Black-Friday-sized crowds at
Kimbers booth just to get close enough
to handle the K6s. If you had the chance,
you would have marveled at how Kimber
packed six shots of .357 Magnum into such
a small package. Were still baffled as to
how the action can be so smooth and light
for a production gun and not be a custom.
To gild the lily, Kimber will be offering holsters, a K6s-specific speedloader and, in
partnership with Crimson Trace, two types
of rubber grips, one with and one without
an aiming laser.
kimberamerica.com $900

PRO

CON

Incredibly
smooth trigger
and aesthetics.

Pricey for
a revolver
intended for
carry.

BOTTOM
LINE
The wheelgun
lives on.

TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT
TRIGGER

Semiautomatic
9mm
7+1 rds.
3.2 in.
6.2 in.
1 lb., 6 oz.
5 lbs., 8 oz.

40

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

LES BAER BLACK BAER

PRO

CON

BOTTOM

Impeccable fit
Expensive.
LINE
and blacked- Needs a short
The best
out finish. rail option to be looking and
perfect.
handling 9mm
1911 to date.

Take all-steel components and put them in

a Commander-sized 1911, and then have a
team of pistolsmiths working for a legendary drag racer fit them to a level of precision that makes a bank vault look slapped
together. That would be a start in describing the new Black Baer. Baer Custom adds
Novak-dovetail Les Baer night sights, a
30-LPI hand-checkered frontstrap and
installs all National Match internals before
finishing it with a DuPont S coating colored
dead black. At the heart of the Black Baer
is a 9mm match barrel with an integral feed
ramp and fully supported chamber. The
black Recon grips are more than tacky and
complimentary to the package. Its not just
a carry gun; Its a race gun.
lesbaer.com $3,160

TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT
TRIGGER

Semiautomatic
9mm
9+1 rds.
4.25 in.
7.75 in.
2 lbs., 2 oz.
3 lbs., 8 oz.

NIGHTHAWK HI POWER
TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT
TRIGGER

Semiautomatic
9mm
13+1 rds.
4.75 in.
8.1 in.
2 lbs., 4 oz.
4 lbs.

We have loved and hated the Hi Power.

We loved the feel and hated the hammer
bite. Long ago, 9mm fell out of favor with
steel-gun pistoleros for the .45, and now
the 9mm is back with more effective ballistics. Hence, Nighthawk Custom has now
branched out from 1911-building to include
John Brownings improvement on his 1911.
Built on brand-new FN-made MkIII pistols,
Nighthawk incorporated all the features
weve been adding for decades. In addition
to the hand-stippled frame, slide and
triggerguard; the Novak sights (the front
has a brass bead even) and Cerakote finish,
the frame now has an integral beavertail to
totally preclude hammer bite. Trigger is a
clean, crisp 4-pound pull. We love this one.
nighthawkcustom.com $2,895

PRO

CON

No more
hammer bite.
Nighthawk
excellence.

A little heavier
and less
rounds than
going polymer.

BOTTOM
LINE
Carrying with
class. Be
classy. Youll
like it.

RUGER AMERICAN PISTOL

PRO

CON

Top tier service Maybe the look

pistol made of the grip and
for us.
back of the
slide?

BOTTOM
LINE
Great gun.
Dont judge
it until youve
shot it.

Ruger threw down the gauntlet, and

its engineers started from a blank CAD
screen, using the new U.S. Army Modular Handgun System requirements as its
guideposts. With an aggressive new look,
the American Pistol was designed with
non-stop input from their Voice of the
Customer Program. It is feature-laden,
including an ambi slide stop and mag
catch. Theres also a modular grip system,
and it is rated for sustained +P ammo use.
The trigger has a short takeup, and a crisp
and shorter reset than the average striker-fired pistol. This pistol was launched in
9mm and .45 ACP, and will offer an option
for a manual thumb safety.
ruger.com $580

TYPE Semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE 9mm, .45 ACP
CAPACITY 17+1 rds. (9mm),
10+1 rds. (.45 ACP)
BARREL 4.2 in.
OAL 7.5 in.
WEIGHT 1 lb., 14 oz.
TRIGGER 3 lbs., 8 oz.

m ay 2 0 1 6

G&A

41

SIG SAUER P229 W/ OPTIC

TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT
TRIGGER

Semiautomatic
9mm
15+1 rds.
3.9 in.
7.1 in.
1 lb., 13 oz.
10 lbs. (DA)

Not content with its masterpiece, SIG

Sauer took the P229 and made it capable
of accepting a red dot sight. And since SIG
Sauer is now a maker of optics, the P229 is
being developed to accept red dots. SIG
Sauer revealed this model quietly at SHOT
Show, so the ones weve handled are only
prototypes. When they become available
later this year, well benefit from the compact size of a P229, but with the capacity
we desire (15 rounds of 9mm or 12 rounds
of .40). With practice, you can improve
your speed and precision that SIG Sauers
new mini red dot sight affords.
sigsauer.com $TBD

PRO

CON

BOTTOM

SIG Sauer Technology will

LINE
keeps up with come with a
We want to
the Joneses.
price.
shoot it, but its
not ready.

SMITH & WESSON SW22 VICTORY

PRO

CON

BOTTOM

Good trigger We wish S&W

LINE
and especially would have A target plinker
accurate. The reserved the worth dipping
LEGO version Victory name into your stash
of a modern
for a new
of .22 for.
rimfire pistol.
revolver.

We expect a .22LR pistol to be reliable,

accurate, soft in recoil and inexpensive.
Smith & Wesson went three better. How
about user-changeable barrels, with a simple tool that comes in the box? The barrels
are suppressor-threaded, and the receiver
will easily accept replacing its adjustable
rear sight for a red dot. The SW22 Victory
is a design that is simple to take apart, and
its priced for success.
smith-wesson.com $409

SPRINGFIELD ARMORY EMP4

TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT
TRIGGER

Semiautomatic
9mm
10+1 rds.
4 in.
7.5 in.
1 lb., 15 oz.
4 lb., 8 oz.

Since 2007, the EMP has been an excellent

compact 1911. Engineers didnt modify
a magazine to feed the 9mm cartridge;
instead, the entire pistol was redeveloped
and cut down the middle until the EMP
frame was properly sized front-to-back for
the 9mm. Still available, the original EMP
was also offered in .40. Consequently,
these improvements made it comfortable
for users with smaller hands wanting a firm
grip on a 1911. This year, the new EMP4
continues the original EMPs achievements
with a 1/2-inch longer grip and 4-inch barrel.
If you want a lightweight 1911 in 9mm for
carry, and you dont like the feel of full-size
frames, try the EMP4.
springfield-armory.com $1,180

PRO

CON

Could be the
ideal size 1911
for carry.

Some of us
wish it had a
bushing.

BOTTOM
LINE
A true one-size
fits-all frame
designed
around 9mm.

TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT
TRIGGER

Semiautomatic
.22LR
10+1 rds.
5.5 in.
9.2 in.
2 lb., 4 oz.
5 lbs.

42

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

SPRINGFIELD ARMORY
RANGE OFFICER OPERATOR 9mm
The value-packed Range Officer, with
Novak sights, a match build and accuracy,
now features an accessory rail and is available in 9mm. If you thought shooting was
fun before, a full-size 1911 in 9mm is soft
in recoil, fast on-target, cheap to feed and,
since its a Range Officer, it is accurate. The
barrel has an integral ramp, so cases are
fully supported. The RO is a perfect canvas
for customizing, since Springfield Armory
did all the hard work.
springfield-armory.com $980

TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT
TRIGGER

Semiautomatic
9mm
9+1 rds.
5 in.
8.6 in.
2 lbs., 8 oz.
4 lbs., 8 oz.

TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT
TRIGGER

Semiautomatic
9mm
7+1 rds.
3.18 in.
6.3 in.
1 lb., 5 oz.
6 lbs.

PRO

CON

A joy to shoot,
and now we
can attach a
light.

Wish it was
offered with
something
besides a red
fiber optic front
sight.

BOTTOM
LINE
Your other
pistols will be
jealous of the
attention this
one gets.

CON

BOTTOM

WALTHER PPS M2
Last summer, the Walther PPS bested other
contenders in G&As Single-Stack 9mm
Shootout with the only criticism given to its
paddle magazine release. Walther quickly
added the PPS M2 to 2016s lineup and
perfected it. They took the 1-inch-flat PPS,
changed the magazine release from the
Teutonic paddle and converted it to an
American-style button. They made the grip
area of the frame even more ergonomic,
and they added another round to the
magazine options (three included).
waltherarms.com $470

PRO
This is likely
the best
single-stack
9mm you can
carry.

The .40 brings

LINE
some heat. German quality
without condescension.

INTRODUCING THE

V11SLW

ONE OF THE LIGHTEST,

FASTEST-HANDLING RIFLES
IN THE DANIEL DEFENSE LINEUP.
Cutting weight, not corners, the DDM4V11 SLW tips the scales at just over
six pounds without any compromise in materials, construction, or features.
Built around a Cold Hammer Forged, 14.5, Lightweight profle barrel, the
V11 SLW has an extended fash suppressor, which is pinned and welded
to reach the NFA-required, 16 minimum barrel length. The mid-length
gas system provides smooth and reliable cycling under any conditions and
reduces both perceived recoil and wear on moving parts.
A free-foating SLiM Rail 12.0 handguard offers incredible weight savings
as well as superior cooling, ergonomics, and modularity while maintaining
the strength and durability expected from Daniel Defense.

Visit DanielDefense.com for more information,

and see the new DDM4V11SLW at your local
Daniel Defense dealer.

ALSO AVAILABLE
IN MIL SPEC +

44

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

GETTING MORE

m ay 2 0 1 6

FOR THE MONEY

Words by Tom Beckstrand | Photos by Mark Fingar

Three all-day field guns

that naturally evolve the
Tikka T3 lineup.

G&A

45

46

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m ay 2 0 1 6 | G e t t i n G m o r e f o r t h e m o n e y

far right: the tikka

t3x has a lengthy
extractor that grabs
the case rim well.
right: though it
has a two-lug bolt,
the t3x manages a
70-degree throw.

A steel recoil lug sits in the stock and frees up the forward portion of the receiver for a
massive bedding surface. Very clever.

I BOUGHT THE FIRST TIKKA RIFLE I ever evaluated. It

was a T3 CTR that put the first three rounds I fired into a single
oblong hole at 100 yards. Factory rifles can be accurate, but this
was the first time I saw a factory rifle shoot better than most
custom rifles.
Tikka isnt a name with which most American riflemen are
familiar. It is a Finnish company owned by SAKO who is
owned by Beretta. Though the family tree might look a little
unusual, the rifles have a history of offering tremendous value.

The foundation of any rifle is the action, and Tikkas have a

great one. By a great one, I mean that they really have just one
action. Every Tikka rifle has the same length action regardless
of its chambering. From .223 Remington all the way to .300
Win. Mag., theyre all the same. Actions are available in carbon or stainless steels, right- or left-hand models, but there are
no short-action. Because Tikka only produces this sole action,
economies of scale work in our favor and the consumer realizes
considerable savings.

g e t t i n g m o r e f o r t h e m o n e y | m ay 2 0 1 6

g&A

47

the new checkering

pattern is much cleaner
and will appeal to the
traditionalist.
Tikka
Type:
Cartridge:
Capacity:
Barrel:
Overall Length:
Weight:
Stock:
Grips:
Length of Pull:

the new grip on tikkas Ctr and Lite

models can interchange between traditional contours and a vertical grip.

the t3x Ctr also has a forward attachment that makes the forend flat and wide
to ride bags for excellent support.

Finish:
Trigger:
Sights:
MSRP:
Manufacturer:

T3 Lite Stainless
Bolt action
.308 Winchester (tested)
4 + 1 rds.
22 in., 1:11-in. twist
42.5 in.
6 lbs., 1.6 oz.
Injection-molded polymer
w/ interchangeable grip
Conventional and vertical
inserts
13.5 in., adj. w/ spacer
inserts
Stainless
3 lbs., 2 oz. (tested)
None
$700
Tikka, 800-929-2901
berettausa.com

lug to act as a raceway, keeping the bolt

The Tikka is a two-lug action with a
centered behind the bore as the shooter
70-degree bolt throw. Actions traditionally
cycles the action. Without it, the bolt
come in two flavors: two-lug bolts with
could easily bind if pushed off-axis while
90-degree throws and three-lug bolts with
quickly closing the action.
60-degree throws. The Tikka is unique
Mauser clones dont have the grooved
with two lugs and a much shorter throw, a
lug, but they do have a very large
feat they pull off with efficiently designed
extractor that acts as a sliding raceway. By
bolt lugs.
the time the lug clears the abutment and
These bolt lugs are narrower than the
starts rearward movement, the extractor
two-lug models traditionally seen on rifles
tikka t3x models all feature a praise-worsits over the top of the lug and extends
made here in the States. These narrow
thy adjustable single-stage trigger.
rearward past the receiver bridge. Instead
lugs unlock with just 70 degrees of rotaof a raceway, the extractor helps prevent
tion. The reason Tikka is able to get away
the bolt from binding if pushed off-axis.
with narrow lugs while everyone else seems stuck with wide
The Tikka receiver wraps up around the lug that rides under
examples and 90 degrees of lift is found by closely examining
the ejection port, keeping a functional raceway to guide the bolt
the ejection port.
and prevent it from being pushed off-axis. This efficient use of
Remington 700-pattern actions have one grooved lug that
the receiver space lets them have more slender lugs that ride
rides a rail beneath the ejection port with the majority of the lug
smoothly in the uncluttered raceways.
exposed and unsupported. This groove is incorporated into the

A Settlement has
been Proposed in a
Class Action Lawsuit that
Alleges Safety Defects in

Taurus Pistols
PLEASE READ
Important Information
Concerning Your Options
Para una notificacin en Espaol, visitar
www.TaurusCarterSettlement.com

WHATS THIS ABOUT?

A class action settlement of a lawsuit alleging
safety defects in certain Taurus pistols has
been proposed. The lawsuit claims Class
Pistols may unintentionally fire with the
safety in the on or safe position, and may
unintentionally fire when dropped or bumped.
Taurus denies all allegations of wrongdoing
and liability.

WHOS INCLUDED?
You may be a Class Member if you are a resident
or entity of the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin
Islands, or Guam and own at least one Class
Pistol (these include PT, Millennium, and
24/7 models; see the website for a complete
listing) on July 30, 2015. The settlement
doesnt include Taurus G2 model pistols.

WHAT ARE THE SETTLEMENT

BENEFITS?

48

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | G e t t i n G m o r e f o r t h e m o n e y

Tikka T3x CTR

Type:
Cartridge:
Capacity:
Barrel:
Overall Length:
Weight:
Stock:
Grips:
Length of Pull:
Finish:
Trigger:
Sights:
MSRP:
Manufacturer:

Bolt action
.308 Winchester (tested)
10 rds.
20 in., 1:11-in. twist
40 in.
7 lbs., 8 oz.
Injection-molded polymer
with additional wide forend
and interchangeable grips
Traditional and vertical
inserts
13.5 in.
Matte blue
3 lbs.
None
$950
Tikka, 800-929-2901
berettausa.com

While the receiver-supported lug design makes for short bolt

throw and slick bolt travel, Tikka took some heat over the narrow
ejection port that comes on their rifles. New for the T3x is a
wider ejection port that machines away a cosmetic beveled edge,
but still manages to keep the ejection-side raceway. The new
ejection port gives shooters better access to top-load the action
without destroying one of the smoothest and fastest receivers.

Taurus will provide a free, transferable

lifetime enhanced warranty benefit.
Taurus will pay shipping and inspection
costs and repair or replace the pistol,
with no requirement that the owner
prove the alleged safety defects. No
repair is currently available, so pistols
returned under this option will be
replaced with a comparable Taurus G2
(or similar) model pistol at this time. You can
receive a replacement only if applicable law
permits the shipping of a replacement pistol
to your state (visit the website for details).
If Taurus develops a repair, it can repair
rather than replace Class Pistols. Taurus
will also provide safety training videos to all
Settlement Class Members.
Settlement Class Members who want a
cash payment may return their Class Pistol
to Taurus (with shipping paid by Taurus).
They will receive up to $200 per pistol,
depending on the total number returned.
Total cash payments will not exceed $30
million. If the Court approves the settlement
and there are no appeals, the claims period for
cash payments will run from approximately
August 22, 2016 until December 20, 2016.

the t3x Ctr takes the same 10-round mag as the SAKo trG-22.

WHAT ARE YOUR OTHER OPTIONS?

You can opt-out or object to the settlement,
but must do so by May 18, 2016. If you do not
opt-out, you release Taurus from liability for
alleged design or manufacturing defects that
may result in an unintended discharge. If you
opt-out, you will not get a benefit from this
settlement.
The Court will hold a continued Final Approval
hearing on July 18, 2016, to consider whether
to approve the settlement.
This is a Supplemental Summary authorized
by the Court. For detailed information, visit
the website, call 1-844-528-0180, or write to
Taurus Class Action, c/o Heffler Claims Group,
P.O. Box 230, Philadelphia, PA 19107-0230.

the Ctr has a cheek riser that helps us adapt to shooting with
larger maintubes and objective lenses found with modern optics.
www.TaurusCarterSettlement.com

g e t t i n g m o r e f o r t h e m o n e y | m ay 2 0 1 6

Also new for the Tikka T3x action is a metal bolt shroud that
replaces the plastic shroud on older models. While this change is
almost purely cosmetic, a metal shroud inspires more confidence
than a plastic one. Piercing a primer can blow a lot of gas and
debris back down the firing pin channel inside the bolt body.
One end of that firing pin channel points at the primer and the
other end points right at the shooters face and eye. Although Ive
never seen a problem with a plastic bolt shroud failing to protect
the shooters face, even with a pierced primer, I feel a lot better
with the new metal bolt shroud that replaces it.
Material selection. The T3x stock also
has some improvements over the legacy
model. The biggest functional change is
that the recoil lug is now made from steel
instead of aluminum.
Tikka rifles are unique in a few aspects,
one of which is the recoil lug doesnt sit
between the barrel and receiver but inside
the stock. The lug protrudes from the

t3x Ctr barrels are threaded for easy

suppressor and muzzlebrake use.

the Ctr bottom metal has a magazine

release accessible with a fingertip.

the tikka safety sits at the right rear of

the receiver, easily within reach of the
firing hand.

g&A

49

stock into a groove in the receiver. The receiver is flat, so the

square recoil lug has plenty of surface area to anchor the action
firmly in place.
As with anything seemingly unusual on a Tikka rifle, there is
a very good explanation as to why they are made this way. Pull
any of its barrel actions out of the stock and measure from the
front of the receiver to the forward action screw hole. It will
measure just a hair under an inch. That entire inch is threaded
to accept the barrel, providing generous mating surfaces between
the action and barrel. Autopsy any other factory action and we
see the threaded portion of the receiver is usually much shorter,

50

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | G e t t i n G m o r e f o r t h e m o n e y

Tikka T3 Forest
Type:
Cartridge:
Capacity:
Barrel:
Overall Length:
Weight:
Stock:
Grips:
Length of Pull:
Finish:
Trigger:
Sights:
MSRP:
Manufacturer:

Bolt action
.308 Winchester (tested)
4 + 1 rds.
22 in., 1:11-in. twist
42.5 in.
6 lbs., 13 oz.
Walnut
Checkered
13.5 in., adjustable with
spacers
Matte blue
3 lbs., 4.8 oz. (tested)
None
$850
Tikka, 800-929-2901
berettausa.com

meaning it doesnt grab as much barrel. This normally isnt an

issue on a light hunting barrel, but heavy-target barrels or long
barrels can experience accuracy problems if the receiver cant
support it. They just dont have enough material to keep things
from whipping around when the rifle fires.
Tikka rifles are known for being unusually accurate, and the
recoil lug arrangement and lengthy section of threaded receiver

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With a one-action size, all tikka magazines are long. Blocks

behind the case make them reliable with short-action cartridges.

g e t t i n g m o r e f o r t h e m o n e y | m ay 2 0 1 6

are partially responsible. (The barrel is the rest of Tikkas accuracy

secret, but that discussion is for later.) The Tikka receiver has a
very large bedding surface under and around the forward action
screw thanks to the separate recoil lug and large threaded section.
This monstrous bedding surface is what makes the action capable
of very consistent accuracy.
A quick swing through the rifle history books will be helpful in explaining whats happening with the Tikka action. Back
at the beginning of the 20th century, Winchester designed the
Model 54 as a commercial Mauser clone. It never performed well
because the front action screw threaded directly into the recoil
lug and all the conflicting forces that met
there gave the rifle erratic accuracy. Flyers
were a common occurrence. Winchester
identified the problem, beefed up the
recoil lug and moved the action screw to
a large flat bedding surface behind the
lug. They named their creation the Model
70, which was a very accurate rifle thanks
to the large bedding surface around the
forward action screw that functioned
independently of the recoil lug. The Tikka
action has an even larger forward bedding
surface than the Model 70, and the recoil
lug also provides some of the support. The
front action screw lies in the middle of
it all and is also located directly beneath
the junction where the bolt face meets the
back of the barrel. This location allows
the bolt lugs uninterrupted contact with
the receiver lug abutments once the action
screw is tightened down.

g&A

In an effort to further improve the already ingenious action/

recoil-lug design, the new T3x now features a recoil lug made
from steel instead of aluminum. Aluminum has served the Tikka
action well, but there is only a small amount of engagement
surface between the receiver and recoil lug, so Tikka made the
decision to upgrade the material. On hard-kicking magnums that
get rebarreled, this update might make all the difference.
Stocks and Barrels The stocks on Tikkas new CTR and Lite
models have interchangeable grips that let the shooter have a
traditional hunting grip or the more tactical vertical grip. The

A NEWLY
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KING.

the t3x hunter models bolt handle is

slender and comfortable in the hand.

NOW AVAILABLE IN
6, 6.5 & 7mm
in addition to 30 and 22 caliber.

How do you make the most accurate bullet

in the world even better? By crowning the
MatchKing with an acetal resin tip that lowers
drag by improving the ballistic coefcient.
Learn more about the new TMK (Tipped
MatchKing) bullets at sierrabullets.com.
WWW.SIERRABULLETS.COM

Copyright 2016 Sierra Bullets

All tikka rifles have free-floating barrels.

51

1400 West Henry Street | Sedalia, MO 65301

Tech support: 800-223-8799 | Other calls: 888-223-3006

52

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | G e t t i n G m o r e f o r t h e m o n e y

traditional grip works well for

general use, while the vertical
grip is more comfortable in the
prone. There is also a forend
attachment for the CTR that
lets the rifle switch between
a slender hunting profile and
a wide flat contour that rides
bags better. Additional fill
material has also been added
to the polymer stocks to
reduce any noise they generate
from impacts in the field.
PERFORMANCE .308 WIN.
The T3x Hunter still comes
wearing walnut with a new
VELOCITY
LOAD
(FPS)
checkering pattern that is less
SAKO Hammerhead 150
2,818
cluttered than the older model.
SAKO Hammerhead 180
2,536
Instead of three panels along
Federal GMM 168 gr.
2,561
the grip and forend, there is
a single panel thatll likely
appeal to the more traditional rifle enthusiast.
One of the biggest draws of Tikka rifles is that they share the
same barrels with SAKO. SAKO owns Tikka and produces their
barrels in-house. Part of what makes Tikka such an excellent
value is that the barrel is the same one found on a rifle that costs

two to three times as much.

While the Tikka action is one
of the best designs of factory
rifles, the barrel also fights a
couple of weight classes up
with accuracy on par with barrels from the big custom shops
here in the U.S. Perhaps most
shocking of all is the SAKO/
Tikka barrel is hammer-forged,
a process known for producing
long-lasting barrels but usually
not match-grade accuracy. Still,
I continued to find that the
Tikka rifles routinely proBEST
AVERAGE
ES SD GROUP (IN.) GROUP (IN.)
duce sub-MOA groups with
32 12
.68
.91
ammunition it likes. Especially
37 14
.83
1.08
when the barrel settles in after a
83 31
1.04
1.22
couple hundred rounds.
Tikkas are the least expensive rifles in the Beretta-SAKO-Tikka empire, but they still offer
a list of features and accuracy that has to be seen to be believed.
While there are less expensive rifles on the market, none are as
nice or feature-rich for the money. This is particularly true when
examining these new T3x models.

BUILT FOR LIFE.

m ay 2 0 1 6

G&A

Theres a gang of new long arms for

2016, most of which seem to center
around black rifles. TOM BECKSTRAND

ales for ars have been slow

for more than a year, but it

appears the market has successfully stumbled through
the hangover of politically
induced panic, and the market is beginning to normalize. Manufacturers only
seem to develop new products when
sales show signs of life and, judging from
the number of new ARs, sales are ticking
up. Value and light weight are the themes
for all rifles this year, including ARs.
The bolt-action category had a couple
of big surprises, chief of which was Kimbers entry into the value section of rifle
sales. Ruger also came up for air on their
successful American rifle and trotted out
a magnum version. Both are fantastic
bolt guns, and both are priced to sell.
The final trend Im witnessing is a little
more esoteric. Bullpup rifles are having
a banner year and both IWI and Kel-Tec
presented updated models of the Tavor
and RDB. Compact and efficient, bullpups still represent a growing segment of
American rifle ownership.

55

56

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

TYPE Direct impingement,

semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY 20, 30 rds.
BARREL 16.1 in.; 1:7 twist
OAL 32 in. (collapsed)
35.5 in. (extended)
WEIGHT 6 lbs., 7 oz.

TYPE Direct impingement,

semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE 6.5 Grendel
CAPACITY 20 rds.
BARREL 18 in.
OAL 34 in. (collapsed)
37.5 in. (extended)
WEIGHT Varies

COLT EXPANSE

CORE15 6.5 GRENDEL

In an effort to bring Colt quality to more

customers, Colt revealed the Expanse,
the lowest-priced AR-pattern rifle they
offer. Unlike previous economy models,
the Expanse is built using the same forged
upper and lower receivers as other Colt
rifles. The price savings come from the
absence of a forward assist and dustcover,
as well as a non-chrome-lined barrel. The
upper receiver has the forward assist housing in place; its filled with a removable
plug that can fill the hole or let shooters
install a forward assist. The same goes for
the dustcover. The attachment points are
there for the shooter to decide.
colt.com $700

CORE15 has a new chambering for their

HardCore and TAC families of ARs this
year: 6.5 Grendel. CORE Rifle Systems
is capitalizing on the ballistic coefficients
of 6.5mm projectiles in chambering this
round. The precision rifle is machined from
billet aluminum and has a CORE15 barrel
installed. Thus far in my evaluation, Im
finding that it is a light and extremely accurate rifle. G&As testing has even resulted
in a .6 MOA five-shot group at 350 yards!
These CORE15 models are available in
both 18- and 20-inch barrel lengths, resulting in superior effectiveness between 200
and 800 yards when compared to the 5.56.
core15.com $2,500

PRO
Complete rifle
is ready to fire
as purchased.

CON

BOTTOM

LINE
Most shooters
will want the A great entryforward assist level shooter or
and dustcover. an excuse to
build a project.

PRO

CON

Light and
accurate.

Expensive.

BOTTOM
LINE
A 6.5 now
rounds out this
brands long
list of ARs.

m ay 2 0 1 6

TYPE Gas piston,

semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY 20, 30 rds.
BARREL 17.4 in.
OAL 27.4 in.
WEIGHT 7 lbs.

TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT

G&A

57

TYPE Direct impingement,

semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY 20, 30 rds.
BARREL 16.25 in.; 1:8 twist
OAL 32 in. (collapsed)
35.75 in. (extended)
WEIGHT 6 lbs., 12 oz.

Bolt action
Varies
3 rds.
22 in.
41.5 in.
6 lbs., 8 oz.

KEL-TEC RDB

KIMBER HUNTER

MOSSBERG MMR CARBINE

Kel-Tecs RDB is part of a new and

improved 5.56 variant that many bullpup
fans are excited about this year. While
Kel-Tec has managed to give us all the
compact handiness bullpups are regarded
for, theyve also kept weight down to 7
pounds, while making this model truly
ambidextrous. No other bullpup currently
on the market is lighter, and no bullpup is
as accommodating for ambidextrous use.
This is entirely made possible by the downward ejection of spent cases (a process
that gets assisted by gravity). The RDB is
also slender and gets rid of much of the
bulk associated with other bullpup rifles.
keltecweapons.com $1,273

Brand new from Kimber is the Hunter rifle.

This model represents Kimbers push to
bring lower-priced rifles to the market.
Some will complain that the cost is still
high, but we wont see another meticulously machined from billet and given a
controlled-round-feed (CRF) action. The
barreled actions are the same as those
found on higher-priced Kimbers, and much
of the cost savings come from the use of an
injection-molded stock. Our initial impression of the stock is that its rigid enough for
most hunting environments, while maintaining the lines that Duane Wiebe bestowed
on Kimber stocks many years ago.
kimberamerica.com $885

Mossberg entered the AR market with its

line of MMR rifles years ago. Mossberg has
done well at bringing value to AR customers. The new rifle keeps the free-floating
barrel and adds M-LOK forend capability.
This gives the customer the latest in accessory mounting capability right from the
factory on one of the least expensive ARs.
In addition to the M-LOK forend, it also
includes Magpuls polymer triggerguard
and MOE grip, which are probably the
most popular AR accessories on the aftermarket. Accuracy and reliability give us
plenty to work with. The MMR has always
been a good value; now its great.
mossberg.com $910

PRO

CON

BOTTOM

LINE
Light and
Currently, comambidextrous. ing across one A bullpup that
Inexpensive is like hunting a should fail
to meet its
by bullpup
unicorn.
demand for
standards.
quite some
time.

PRO

CON

A Kimber rifle
Many will
priced less eventually want
than $1,000.
to restock it.

BOTTOM
LINE
A Kimber
through and
through.

PRO

CON

A solid, entryAt the very

level value. least, Mossberg
should have
included a
Magpul stock.

BOTTOM
LINE
News flash:
Mossberg
endorses
M-LOK.

58

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT

TYPE Gas piston,

semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE 7.62 NATO
CAPACITY 20, 30 rds.
BARREL 10.5 in.
OAL 27.5 in. (collapsed)
31.5 in. (extended)
WEIGHT 6 lbs., 2 oz.

Bolt action
308 Win.
10 rds.
16.25 in.; 1:10 twist
37.5 in.
9 lbs.

TYPE Bolt action

CARTRIDGE .300 Win. Mag.,
7mm Rem. Mag.
CAPACITY 3 rds.
BARREL 24 in.
OAL 44.5 in.
WEIGHT 7 lbs., 8 oz.

MOSSBERG MVP SCOUT PACKAGE

POF-USA REVOLUTION

RUGER AMERICAN MAGNUM

New for 2016 is a Scout package, which

includes a 2-7x32mm extended eye relief
scope from Vortex. This partnership continues to bring significant added value to
the customer. The 2-7X scope is mounted
forward of the action, patterned after the
traditional scout rifle concept developed
by former G&A contributor Col. Jeff
Cooper. In the spirit of Coopers teachings,
the ghost-ring rear sight and fiber-optic
front sight are present and fast to acquire
should the scope become damaged.
A detachable box magazine, threaded
muzzle and great LBA trigger are all part
of the deal.
mossberg.com $962

Frank DeSomma, founder and CEO

of POF-USA took G&A editors behind
closed doors at SHOT Show to reveal
his AR-15-dimensioned piston-operated
rifle chambered in .308. Thats right; its
the same size as a 5.56/.223-chambered
AR-15. While the trend for smaller .308
ARs isnt new, this is the first time weve
seen such a small piston-operated model.
(We recommend piston systems for rifles
that expect to see suppressor use.) The
smaller, lighter package makes hunting
with this a viable idea, but it would also do
well as a patrol rifle for a law enforcement
officer or a truck gun for all of us.
pof-usa.com $2,500 (estimated)

As popular as the American has been, it

was only a matter of time before Ruger
came out with a Magnum version. This rifle
has a new long-action, three-lugged bolt
joined with a black synthetic stock and
trigger made popular by its smaller brother.
It also comes with a larger detachable-box
magazine featuring a protruding floorplate.
It will be chambered in 7mm Remington
Magnum and .300 Winchester Magnum.
Coming in at 7 pounds, its a light rifle
but the excellent recoil pad takes almost all
of the punishment from firing. The barrel is
threaded at the factory, so it can be fitted
with either a muzzlebrake or a suppressor.
ruger.com $700

PRO

CON

BOTTOM

LINE
Package is
You can have
A low-cost
cheaper than
it in any
buying the
chambering you alternative to
rifle and scope want, as long as Coopers Steyr
Scout rifle.
separately.
its .308 Win.

PRO

CON

A truly
do-anything
rifle.

The MFT stock

is light, but we
still question
its impact
resistance.

BOTTOM
LINE
Do we still
need a 5.56?

PRO

CON

Extremely
popular rifle
now available
in magnum
cartridges.
Inexpensive.

The action
could be
smoother.

BOTTOM
LINE
We think its the
most affordable
.300 Win. Mag.
out there.

Flawless performance on the range

or at the ready. With its lightweight polymer
frame, thin profile, and ramped 3.2 barrel,
the Taurus Millennium G2 is the perfect
Everyday Gunat an unbeatable price.
Available in 9mm Luger or 40 S&W
Ideal for concealed carry
Proven performance
Picatinny accessory rail MIL-STD-1913
Adjustable rear sight
Taurus Security System

TaurusUSA.com

60

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

TYPE Delayed blowback,

semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE .22 WMR
CAPACITY 10 rds.
BARREL 21 in.
OAL 40.5 in.
WEIGHT 5 lbs., 8 oz.

TYPE Bolt action

CARTRIDGE .300 Win. Mag.,
.338 Lapua
CAPACITY 5 rds.
BARREL 24 in.
OAL 49.25 in.
WEIGHT 11 lbs.

TYPE Gas piston,

semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE 7.62 NATO
CAPACITY 20, 30 rds.
BARREL 16 in.; 1:10 twist
OAL 34 in. (collapsed)
37 in. (extended)
WEIGHT 8 lbs., 3 oz.

SAVAGE A22 MAGNUM

SAVAGE BA 110 STEALTH

SIG SAUER 716 DMR GEN 2

The A22 Magnum is Savage Arms newest

rimfire and capitalizes on the work they did
in creating the A17, Guns & Ammos 2015
Rifle of the Year. The delayed blowback
action utilizes a locking block that holds
the bolt closed long enough for the chamber pressure to drop and allow reliable
extraction. This engineering breakthrough
enabled Savage to make semiautomatic
rifles chambered in the Magnum rimfire
cartridges starting with the .17 HMR. This
year, the A22 displays all the same design
specifications as the A17, except its chambered in .22 WMR. Magazine capacity is
10 rounds.
savagearms.com $473

Entirely new is the Savage short-action

BA 110 Stealth. The actions in the BA
series come blueprinted from the factory,
meaning extra machine time is devoted to
truing the receiver face, receiver threads
and squaring bolt lugs to lug abutments.
Such features are normally associated with
rifles costing several thousand. This one
is priced about half the cost of rifles with
similar treatments. The short-action has an
excellent straight-line-design MDT chassis
made specifically for Savage. It is functional, lightweight and good looking. With
it, you can choose your own stock because
it utilizes an AR receiver extension.
savagearms.com $1,484 (.300 Win. Mag.)
$1,622 (.338 Lapua)

This rifle is a prime example of developments made for the military, but the
commercial sector reaps its benefits.
SIG Sauers first generation 716 pulled
together a piston-operated AR-pattern rifle
chambered in .308. It was nice but heavy.
The Gen 2 version was developed for a
foreign Special Operations solicitation.
SIG Sauer took the 716, cut 2 pounds of
weight, added an adjustable gas block for
suppressor use and updated the forend
with a longer and slimmer KeyMod forend.
The new rifle comes in under 9 pounds
and makes an excellent choice for a
general-purpose semiautomatic .308.
sigsauer.com $2,963

PRO

CON

Affordable,
reliable
semiauto
.22 WMR.

Its success will

make .22 Mag.
ammo even
harder to find.

BOTTOM
LINE
Reliable and
even more
accurate.
Another win for
Savage.

PRO

CON

Unsurpassed
performance
for the money.

Its only
available in
black.

BOTTOM
LINE
A low-cost
long-distance
plan.

PRO

CON

Its Flat Dark

Earth color
makes it look
oh-so cool.

Expensive.
Also, many
have already
jumped off
the KeyMod
bandwagon.

BOTTOM
LINE
Much improved
feature set and
lighter weight.

RRA 1911-A1 PS2300

BASIC LIMITED PISTOL

MSRP: $1950*

INTRODUCING THE

RRA .45 ACP 1911 PISTOLS

RRAs legendary steel-framed 1911s are back
and performance-tuned for accuracy and reliability.

1911 POLY PS5000

RRA 1911-A1 PS2000

NM HARDBALL

POLYMER

MSRP: $2550*

MSRP: $925*

RRA 1911 QUICK SPECS:

CALIBER: .45 ACP

RRA MATCH ALUMINUM SPEED TRIGGER

RRA FORGED NM OR POLYMER FRAME WITH CUSTOM FEATURES

* Prices are subject to change.

VISIT: WWW.ROCKRIVERARMS.COM

PERFORMANCE TUNED.

62

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

TYPE Direct impingement,

semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY 20, 30 rds.
BARREL 16 in.; 1:7 twist
OAL 32 in. (collapsed)
35 in. (extended)
WEIGHT 6 lbs., 4 oz.

TYPE Gas piston,

semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE 7.62 NATO
CAPACITY 20 rds.
BARREL 16.25 in.
OAL 35.5 in. (collapsed)
38.5 in. (extended)
WEIGHT 9 lbs., 3 oz.

TYPE Gas piston,

semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY 20, 30 rds.
BARREL 13 in.
OAL 22.8 in.
WEIGHT 7 lbs., 2 oz.

SMITH & WESSON M&P SPORT II

SPRINGFIELD ARMORY M1A CQB

IWI TAVOR X95

Smith & Wesson is one of the largest and

oldest gunmakers in the country, which is
why they can sell a rifle like the 5.56-chambered Sport II for as little as they do. The
upper and lower receiver forgings are
hammered and finished in-house, so S&W
added the integral triggerguard awhile
back, which eliminates the gap normally
found there. This small but important
detail is normally reserved for billet receivers that are much more expensive. The
Sport II also includes a forward assist and
dustcover, unlike Smith & Wessons original
Sport model. Best of all, there was no price
increase with these Sport II updates.
smith-wesson.com $739

Springfield Armory continues to offer

additional versions of the venerable M1A,
such as the new CQB model. This rifle is
based on the highly successful SOCOM 16
variant that has a short 16-inch barrel and
compensator at the muzzle. The new CQB
accepts a mini red dot sight that attaches
to the clip slot in the receiver, placing the
optic in an ideal location relative to the
stock comb and iron sights. The CQB also
has an AR-pattern adjustable stock and
pistol grip, giving the M1A familiar ergonomics. Aftermarket AR stocks and grips
will fit the CQB, further expanding the
customizable nature of a battle-tested rifle.
springfield-armory.com $2,400 (w/ Vortex
sight)

One of the most exciting introductions this

year is the IWI X95, an updated version
of the Israeli army-issued Tavor. The X95
has Picatinny rail sections integrated into
the short forend at the 3, 6 and 9 oclock
positions. The X95 has polymer covers
for these sections when the rails are not
in use, maximizing shooter comfort. The
ambidextrous magazine release has been
moved to the same location as a standard
AR. We can now activate the magazine
release with our trigger finger. The pistol
grip is also modular, allowing the shooter
to select between the Tavors enclosed
grip or a traditional AR-pattern pistol grip.
israel-weapon.com $1,900

PRO

CON

BOTTOM

LINE
Dustcover
At $739 and
and forward built by S&W, Valued entryassist are now its hard to find level carbine or
standard. No something to another great
project gun.
price increase.
fault.

PRO
PRO

CON

BOTTOM
LINE

AR-like
AR-like
ergonomics on ergonomics on
AR-like
an M1A rifle! an M1A rifle. ergonomics on
Yeah!
Boo!
an M1A rifle.

CON

BOTTOM

LINE
Updates
Expensive
fix every
and we have to This SBR is one
legitimate
submit an ATF of the shortest
bullpups
complaint of its
Form 1.
available.
predecessor.

M&P SHIELD .
WHErE ProTEcTIon MEETS PErforMancE.
TM

Comfortable to Carry. Comfortable to shoot. the m&P

shield is slim, ConCealable and Powerful. available
in 9 mm and .40 s&w. thats ConfidenCe.

smith-wesson.Com/mPPistols

m&P shieldtm 9 - 7&8 round mags

m&P shieldtm 40 - 6&7 round mags

64

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

TYPE
CARTRIDGE
CAPACITY
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT

TYPE Direct impingement,

semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE 5.56 NATO
CAPACITY 20, 30 rds.
BARREL 16 in (12.5 in.
barrel with pinned &
welded moderator),
1:12 twist,
OAL 32.5 in. (collapsed)
35 in. (extended)
WEIGHT 6 lbs.

Bolt action
Varies
3 or 4 rds.
22.5 in.
42.5 in.
6 lbs., 13 oz.

TYPE Direct impingement,

semiautomatic
CARTRIDGE Varies
CAPACITY 20, 30 rds.
BARREL 16 in.
OAL 32.5 in. (collapsed)
35 in. (extended)
WEIGHT 5 lbs., 14 oz.

TIKKA T3x

TROY DEFENSE GAU-5

WINDHAM WEAPONRY MCS

The Tikka T3 saw a refresh for 2016 with

three new features incorporated into the
rifle. The first feature is modularity with the
synthetic stock that allows users to change
grips and forend shapes. The grip can be
made larger with a palm swell or smaller
like a traditional hunting rifle. The forend
also alternates between a slender hunting
contour and a wide, flat forend. Wood
stocks get updated checkering. The plastic
bolt shroud has been eliminated in favor
of an aluminum one, which offers shooters
more protection in the event of a pierced
primer. Lastly, the top of the receiver has
been machined to better fit a section of
Picatinny rail atop the rifle.
berettausa.com $700+

The GAU-5 is Troys nod to the era and

war that put Eugene Stoners AR-pattern
rifle on the map. The GAU-5 is as close
to a clone of the rifle carried by the Son
Tay Raiders as can be legally offered. The
Special Forces soldiers that conducted the
raid on Nov. 21, 1970, were issued U.S. Air
Force carbines almost identical to these
rifles. This GAU-5 has no forward assist,
a 12-inch barrel (rather than the issued
11-inch barrel), and a sound moderator
permanently attached to make the rifle
long enough to legally own in most states
without having the need to submit extra
paperwork to the ATF. The rifle also has a
replica aluminum stock and replica sling.
troydefense.com $1,200

Developed by MG Industries, Windham

Weaponry is now offering the MCS a
variant of the former Hydra. The Hydra was
the first AR-pattern rifle that could accept
AK magazines. In similar manner, the MCS
looks and functions like any AR, but can
be reconfigured to chamber 7.62x39 AK
magazines. Magazines are the reason ARs
never functioned reliably when chambered
in 7.62x39. The cartridge was tapered too
much to fit through an ARs long, straight
magazine well. The MCS provides the
modularity and aftermarket support we
all enjoy with other AR-pattern rifles, but
adds the cartridge and superior magazine
design of the AK. Fantastic combination.
windhamweaponry.com $1,738+

PRO

CON

BOTTOM

Modularity
Your options
LINE
allows shooters will be limited Budget-minded
to tailor this
to whats in
with SAKO
rifle to fit
your dealers accuracy and
individual
racks.
build quality.
needs.

PRO

CON

As close to the
real thing as
you can get.

Not real
enough for
some.

BOTTOM
LINE
Still worth
owning for
historys sake
alone.

PRO

CON

Ergonomics of Blah M4 barrel

an AR joined by profile, 7-inch
the reliability of forend and
AK mags.
furniture.

BOTTOM
LINE
The best parts
of an AK meet
Americas M4.

!
!
w
Ne

P
C
A
380

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i
ow

CPX-3

Featuring:

Roebuck Quad-Lock System

Laser Etched Slide Reduces Glare
10 + 1 Round Capacity
Perpetual Lifetime Warranty

(866) 729-7599

www.SCCY.com

66

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

m ay 2 0 1 6

G&A

V stands for
versatility. As
with the 50-yearold Remington
Model 1100, the
V3 is as formidable of a competitor at the skeet,
sporting clays
and trap ranges
as it is proving to
be in the field.

REMINGTON
TAKES
SOMETHING
GOOD AND
MAKES IT
BETTER.
WORDS BY ERIC R. POOLE | PHOTOS BY SEAN UTLEY

67

68

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REMINGTONS FIRST semiautomatic shotgun

was the Model 11 based on the venerable John M.
Brownings Auto 5. The Model 11 was also the first
auto-loading shotgun manufactured in the United
States. Then, in 1948, the Model 11s successor, the
11-48, was introduced featuring the long-recoil action
of the Model 11. An estimated 850,000 Model 11s
were produced before it left production in 1947.
Interestingly, the Auto 5 design is on record as the
second best-selling semiautomatic shotgun produced
in the U.S. The Model 1100 remains No. 1.
Handiness, versatility and its fit, feel and balance
have kept the Model 1100 relevant with todays
sportsmen. Takedown of the 1100 is simple and
doesnt require tools. Even after 50 years in the field,
Remington confirmed to Guns & Ammo that it has
no plans to halt production of the Model 1100 (or
1187) even though the new V3 is now on the scene.
Meet the V3. Building on the success of the Versa
Port gas-operating system introduced in the Versa
Max in 2010, and listening to hunters and shooters requesting a lighter 3-inch platform, the new
12-gauge V3 Field Sport is capable of repeatedly and
reliably firing all 1-ounce and larger 23/4- and 3-inch
shells interchangeably.
If one looks carefully down the barrel of a Versa
Max and then looks down the barrel of the new V3,
a series of small portholes can be seen just ahead of
the chamber area along the bottom of the barrels. The
Versa Max has seven of these ports, while the V3 has
eight. These Versa Ports (as Remington calls them)
allow gas to escape behind the accelerating payload of
a fired shell.
In both guns, when a 23/4-inch shell is fired, all
portholes are uncovered and allow the maximum

1.5 in.

Sensitive nancial documents

All burnable household waste*
Old leaves and branches

2.44 in.

PERFECT FOR:

Action Type: Gas operated,

semiautomatic
Gauge: 12
Barrel: 26 in. (tested), 28 in.
Overall Length: 47 in. (tested)
Width: 1.6 in.
Drop At Comb: 1.5 in.
Drop At Heel: 2.44 in.
Weight: 7 lbs., 2 oz.
Trigger: 5 lbs., 8 oz. (tested)
Sights: Bead; white (front),
stainless steel (mid);
drilled and tapped for optics
Stock: Synthetic, textured, black
Finish: Black oxide (steel), hardcoat anodized (aluminum)
Accessories: Remington chokes
(IC, M, F), wrench
MSRP: $895 (tested)
Manufacturer: Remington Arms Company
800-243-9700
remington.com

26 in. (tested)

BurnCage

Remington V3 Field Sport

14.3 in.

with the
Stainless Steel

m ay 2 0 1 6 | r e m i n G t o n V 3

47 in.

BURN SAFELY

G&A

70

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | r e m i n G t o n V 3

amount of gas produced by the fired shell to run the gun. When
a 3-inch shell (or 3-inch in the Versa Max) is fired, the shells
hull reduces the amount of gas allowed to pass through the ports
by covering more of them. This allows both guns to instantly
adjust to varying pressures produced by different shell lengths.
From the ports, the gas flows into two gas-piston assemblies
on either side of the bottom of the chamber where it pushes on
piston rods that impart force on the bolt assembly to cycle the
guns action. The pistons on the Versa Max are simple one-stage
pistons that push on the bolt face and bleed excess gas with the
movement of a single part. The pistons on the V3, however,
feature unique second-stage valves that open and vent excess gas
out the front of the gas-piston assemblies. Why the difference in
design between the two guns? The additional valves in the V3
help to attenuate recoil in the lighter gun, but primarily serve to
optimize bolt velocity and function with the widest possible variety of 23/4- and 3-inch loads. Though the Versa Max and V3 do
not share a single interchangeable part, the operating principles
are the same. In the Versa Max, there is more mass in the internal
components to move rearward for a longer duration than in the
V3, so the V3 doesnt need as much gas to operate.
The V3 incorporates a
unique four-lug rotating bolt.
The bolt head and bolt carrier
together are a unified component that is not designed
to come apart during normal
disassembly, as is the bolt in
the Versa Max. The V3s bolt
head is also slimmer. On the
left side of the bolt is a clever
lever called the shell guide,
which resides just ahead of
the bolt blocker. The shell
guide is opposite the extractor,
and is grooved on the inside
to guide the rim of the shell.
During the extraction process,
the shell guide acts a little like
a dual extractor due to the
small nubs or bosses on the
end that hold the shell during
extraction prior to ejection.
Remington indicates that this

the V3 is quickly
fieldstripped for
maintenance revealing an assembly of
stainless steel and
aluminum parts.
therefore, shooters
wont have to do
much of it.

Below: Better
known for producing guns with steel
receivers, remington built the V3 on
an aluminum one
with a polymer
triggerguard. Controls are still where
they should be.
Bottom: the black
synthetic forend
is molded with a
fashionably modern appearance
thats tactile and
controllable.

72

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | r e m i n G t o n V 3

Far left: Without

a recoil spring
system in its stock,
the grip is reduced
and more comfortable for gloved or
smaller hands.
Left: remingtons
Super Cell recoil
pad is added to
the stock to reduce
perceived recoil
and increase shooting comfort.

little enhancement improved the V3s reliability when compared

to earlier prototypes. These nubs also work like a ramp during
extraction and help to guide the direction of the case on ejection.
A unique ejector rod that runs down the center left of the bolt
assembly pushes the rim of the shell into these nubs and loads up
the extractor spring to provide even more positive ejection.
The V3s internal moving components are tuned to provide
specific bolt velocities, key to the guns reliability and durability. The bolt carrier/bolt head rides on a floating bolt carrier
assembly. The timing of its movement ensures that the bolt head
is always approaching the chamber in the correct orientation.
The V3 bolt also has a very large hinged extractor claw, complemented by the substantial plunger-style ejector noted earlier.
Although usually weak points in semiauto firearms, Remington
ruggedized these parts in the V3 to improve reliability and durability with different kinds of loads and with heavy use.
The V3 is currently offered in both 26- and 28-inch barrels
and feature Remingtons standard .727-inch bore diameter, which
is relatively middle of the road these days. V3 barrels are not
chrome lined, but the fine internal hone and polish provides
much of the same functional
performance. The chamber
area does not show a noticeable step cut to denote where
the chamber transitions into
the forcing cone. In fact, the
V3s extra-long forcing cones
are modeled after the Versa
Max to provide improved patterning and help reduce recoil;
a good thing as I usually pay a
gunsmith extra for this feature.

Below: three rem.

chokes come with
every V3, as well
as a choke-tube
wrench. A modified
choke is installed
at the factory.
Bottom left: A
bright orange
follower says the
tube is empty and
is quick to assess
under almost any
amount of light.
Bottom right:
inspired by triggers on shotguns
designed for competitive shooting,
the trigger shoe
and safety are
large and confidence inspiring.

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74

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | r e m i n G t o n V 3

Utilizing remingtons
Versa Port technology,
the V3 adds pressure
compensating valves in
each gas chamber to
further reduce felt recoil
and optimize performance across all 3-inch
shotshells, including light
1-ounce target loads up
to the heaviest magnum
loads.

The muzzle is threaded for widely available Rem. chokes and

comes with the Modified choke installed at the factory with
both Full and Improved Cylinder chokes along with a wrench
in the box.
Beneath the receiver is a polymer triggerguard housing containing an excellent trigger that breaks cleanly and consistently
at 5 pounds of pressure. The guns roller-sear trigger has its
origins in past Remington competition models, but it has been
ruggedized and tuned in the V3 for fieldwork. Theres a wide
finger pad for the trigger shoe giving comfort and assurance to its
operation. The steel crossbolt safety is large and tactile, too, and
reversible without the need of a gunsmith.
Forward of the triggerguard is a small, notched sliding button,
which engages the V3s magazine cutoff. It was engineered with
three functions in mind. First, as a simple shell swap. If the
magazine is loaded with small steel shot for ducks, and large
geese make a surprise approach, we can use the magazine cutoff
to block the magazine, clear the chamber and insert a more
potent shell. Second, the magazine cutoff can be used to render
the shotgun a single shot, which is great for ensuring safety while
instructing new shooters. Third, it can be used to lock the carrier
up so there is no risk of scraping our thumb when slammin and
jammin shells for reload in a hot dove field or a sky heavy with
clay pigeons.
The receiver is drilled and tapped with four holes to accommodate the attachment of an optic rail. In fact, it takes the same rail
used on the Versa Max.
the white forebead and the stainless mid-bead are
conventional and
get the job done.
the serrations
atop the rib are
very effective in
reducing glare that
could interfere with
sighting.

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ORDER YOURS NOW OR FIND A DEALER AT

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540.639.8356

76

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | r e m i n G t o n V 3

PERFORMANCE
I was pleased to note
that Remington forwent the
REMINGTON HYPERSONIC STEEL
12-GA., 3-IN., 1 OZ., NO. 2; AVERAGE PELLET COUNT: 156; VELOCITY: 1,700 FPS; AVERAGE OF 10 PATTERNS
conventional recoil spring
assembly in the stock. This
FULL
MODIFIED
IMPROVED CYLINDER
means that the V3 can be
= POINT OF HOLD
adapted with different kinds of
stocks and shims to make the
7
6
11
13
7
11
guns more versatile, fit better
25
27
19
26
26
24
and easier to work with. Not
having a recoil spring system
26
15
23
38
22
22
in the stock also moves the
9
11
14
12
7
16
balance of the V3 to the center
and underneath the receiver
rather than at the rear. The
21-IN. INNER CIRCLE: 115 (73.7%)
21-IN. INNER CIRCLE: 90 (57.7%)
21-IN. INNER CIRCLE: 88 (56.4%)
waterfowlers I know prefer a
30-IN. OUTER CIRCLE: 41 (26.3%)
30-IN. OUTER CIRCLE: 31 (19.9%)
30-IN. OUTER CIRCLE: 52 (33.3%)
TOTAL HITS: 156 (100%)
TOTAL HITS: 121 (77.6%)
TOTAL HITS: 140 (89.7%)
shotgun thats not heavy in the
stock. Plus, Remington was
The aluminum receiver is married to a stainless steel magazine
able to reduce the size of the grip, making it more comfortable
tube. Aluminum was selected for the V3 to achieve a weightfor small-handed shooters.
loss goal without subjecting it to corrosive effects of an outdoor
environment. Being that the 7.16-pound V3 is a lighter gun than
Why it matters. Remington gave us a winner with the Versa
the 7.7-pound Versa Max means that it offers a more balanced
Max. Remington likely has another winner in the V3.
feel and a quicker swing for those who dont need or want to run
If the Versa Max can accommodate 2-, 3- and 3-inch loads,
a 3-inch load. The second point that favors the V3 is the $895
while the V3 only runs on 2- and 3-inch shells, you may wonMSRP. A Versa Max retails for $1,456. My prediction is that the
der: Why does the V3 matter? I have two good reasons: weight
V3 marks the comeback of the American-made autoloader.
and price.

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m ay 2 0 1 6

G&A

a budget-friendly inertia gun, an elegant

double, a 3-inch 28-gauge autoloader
and a very sweet 16 gauge round out the
best new shotguns to look forward to.
BRAD FITZPATRICK

and
youve been grousing about the lack
of new scatterguns recently, then
2016 is going to be your year. At the
annual SHOT Show in Las Vegas, several
new models and line extensions were
announced. And theres something on
this list for almost every type of shooter
and budget. There are shotguns here
that are specially designed for ladies,
small shooters and even left-handed
ones. There are models chambered for
every common load, ranging from .410
bore all the way up to 12 gauge. They
range in price from $400 to well over
$2,000. Many wear high-grade walnut
and engraved receivers, while others are
dressed in basic black or the latest camo
trend. Whether looking for a shotgun to
drop teal and doves or break 100 clays in
a row, theres a gun here for you.
f youre a shotgun enthusiast

79

80

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

TYPE
GAUGE
CHAMBERED
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT

TYPE
GAUGE
CHAMBERED
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT

Semiautomatic
12
31/2 in.
28 in.
49.6 in.
7 lbs., 4.8 oz.

TYPE
GAUGE
CHAMBERED
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT

Semiautomatic
28
3 in.
26 in.
47.5 in.
5 lbs.

Semiautomatic
16
23/4 in.
28 in.
49.25 in.
5 lbs., 13 oz.

BENELLI SBE II 25TH ANNIVERSARY

BENELLI ETHOS 28 GA.

BROWNING A5 SWEET SIXTEEN

The Super Black Eagle (SBE) II celebrates

its silver anniversary in 2016. It relies on the
same ultra-reliable inertia-driven system that
took waterfowling by storm a quarter of a
century ago. Other features include a cryotreated 28-inch barrel with elongated red,
fiber-optic front sight, three extended choke
tubes, a ComforTech gel pad and comb
insert. The bolt is corrosion-resistant brushed
nickel with an oversized bolt handle and bolt
release, and its your choice of a Realtree
Max-5 camo or black Cerakote finish.
Slanted toward waterfowl hunters, the SBE
accommodates 2-, 3- and 31/2-inch loads.
benelliusa.com $2,000

The new 28-gauge Ethos is a trim 5

pounds, making it one of the lightest
28-gauge repeaters ever built. Complete
with AA-grade satin walnut and Benellis
Progressive Comfort recoil reduction
system, felt recoil is almost unnoticeable.
Available with either an engraved nickel
or black anodized receiver, the kit includes
five of Benellis choke tubes. The biggest
news is that it sports a 3-inch chamber a
first for 28-gauge semiautos. Teaming
up with Fiocchi, magnum loads for the
28 gauge are incoming. That makes the
venerable 28 even more desirable.
benelliusa.com $2,200

Fans of John Brownings Auto 5 have even

more exciting news. The Sweet Sixteen
is back. It retains the same profile as the
original, but utilizes Brownings (relatively)
new Kinematic Drive short-recoil operation
that relies on recoil energy to cycle the
action instead of gas. The simple, reliable
system allowed Browning engineers to
shave weight; the Sweet Sixteen checks
in at 5 pounds, 13 ounces. The receiver is
scaled, so its trimmer than the 12-gauge
A5, and the Inflex recoil pad does a good
job mitigating the recoil. Three Browning
Invector-DS choke tubes are provided.
browning.com $1,700

PRO

CON

Benellis
ComforTech
System is well
named.

A growing
tide of
budget priced
inertia guns
loom.

BOTTOM
LINE
Theres a
reason this
gun has been
on top for 25
years.

PRO

CON

It looks great, Finding 3-inch

functions
28 gauge
flawlessly and
shells.
weighs next to
nothing.

BOTTOM
LINE
A lovely,
lightweight
extra 1/4-inch
chambered
upland gun.

PRO

CON

Handy enough
16 gauge
to carry all ammo offerings
day and packs are limited.
plenty of
punch.

BOTTOM
LINE
Still pretty
sweet.

m ay 2 0 1 6

TYPE
GAUGE
CHAMBERED
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT

TYPE Side-by-side
GAUGE 12, 20, 28, .410 bore
CHAMBERED 3 in. (12, 20, .410)
23/4 in. (28)
BARREL 28 in.
OAL 45.75 in.
WEIGHT 7 lbs., 5 oz. (12 ga.)
6 lbs., 5 oz. (20 ga.)
5 lbs., 14 oz. (28 ga. and .410)

Over/under
12, 20
3 in.
28 in.
45.5 in.
7 lbs., 5 oz. (12 ga.)
6 lbs., 8 oz. (20 ga.)

TYPE
GAUGE
CHAMBERED
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT

G&A

81

Semiautomatic
12
3 in.
28 in.
48.5 in.
6 lbs., 10 oz.

CZ DRAKE

CZ SHARP-TAIL 28 AND .410

FRANCHI AFFINITY CATALYST

The Drake is CZ-USAs most budget-friendly

over-under that you wont mind roughing
up. The boxlock action is CNC machined,
and both the barrels and receiver are
treated with a gloss black chrome finish. A
bit of scroll engraving on the receiver and
laser-cut checkering garnish the Turkish
walnut, but thats about it. A single-selective
trigger and safety ride on the tang. The
Drake is available in either 12- or 20-gauge
models with scaled frames, and we benefit
from five different chokes. The Drake is
heavier than the similar Stevens 555 models, but that may not be bad given recoil.
cz-usa.com $630

The CZ Sharp-Tail side-by-side lineup now

includes two sub-gauge models featuring
smaller, sleeker actions than the Ringneck
predecessor and lose the leaf-spring
system in favor of durable, lightweight coil
springs. The receiver also gets independent floating firing pins. A sleek, sophisticated color case-hardened finish and
superb balance compliment the Turkish
walnut and 28-inch barrels. The 28 has
2-inch chambers and five chokes, while
the .410 gets 3-inch chambers and fixed
IC/Mod. chokes. They weigh less than 6
pounds and are shorter than 46 inches.
cz-usa.com $1,230

Tailored to women shooters, Franchi

designed the Catalyst line of shotguns
from the ground up. The stocks cast,
pitch, drop, length of pull and reach are
optimized for ladies. Franchi launched
two versions of the Catalyst, the Affinity
Catalyst based on the brands popular
inertia-driven semiauto line and the
Instinct Catalyst an over-under based
on Franchis successful stackbarrel. Both
models are manufactured in Italy, and each
are backed by Franchis 7-year warranty.
We say, Bellissimo.
franchiusa.com Affinity Catalyst $1,000;
Instinct Catalyst $1,600

PRO

CON

BOTTOM

A less-expen- A matte finish

LINE
sive strong would be more CZs take on
boxlock action desirable given the affordable,
CZ.
its purpose.
functional,
no-frills
over-under.

PRO

CON

A great
alternative to
the classic
double.

The 28 gauge
is heavier and
holds one less
shell than the
new Benelli
ETHOS 28.

BOTTOM
LINE
Better than its
predecessor
and easy to
carry all day.

PRO

CON

More women
Left-handed
shooting is women are still
always a good
left out.
thing.

BOTTOM
LINE
An affordable,
reliable gun
engineered
specifically for
women.

82

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

TYPE
GAUGE
CHAMBERED
BARREL

TYPE
GAUGE
CHAMBERED
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT

Pump-action
12, 20
3 in.
28 in. (12 ga.)
26 in. (20 ga.)
OAL 48.5 in. (12 ga.)
45.25 in. (20 ga.)
WEIGHT 7 lbs., 8 oz.

TYPE
BORE
CHAMBERED
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT

Semiautomatic
12
3 in.
28 in., 26 in.
49 in., 47 in.
7 lbs., 4 oz.

Over/under
.410
3 in.
26 in.
42.9 in.
5 lbs., 8 oz.

MOSSBERG L-SERIES

REMINGTON V3

STEVENS 555 .410

Mossberg is now offering its legendary 500, 590 and 590A1 pump-action
shotguns in left-hand versions. We have
counted 15 flavors total. Known as the
L-series, they include a variety of 12-gauge
models designed for everything from deer
hunting to personal defense to law-enforcement work. One of these new models
is based on the 500 FLEX, which allows
us to swap out stocks, barrels and forends
to personally configure our shotgun or
change its purpose. Like all 500s and 590s,
the L-Series guns feature twin action bars,
dual extractors and a convenient top tangmounted safety.
mossberg.com $518+

Remington Arms celebrates 200 years in

2016, and it has produced some of the
best-loved semiauto shotguns during
the 20th century. In spite of the inertia
movement, Remington has (re)launched
its V3 autoloader. Its clear that Remington
is committed to gas-operated designs.
On the surface, the V3 is a lighter, shorter,
3-inch variant of the popular 3-inch Versa
Max. While the V3 borrows the same VersaPort design, it works off a different piston
system, which help lighten the gun overall a pound less than the 11-87 Sportsman.
You can find more information about this
shotgun on page 66.
remington.com $895+

Stevens launched the budget-priced

over-under 555 line years ago, and this
year theyve added a .410 model. Its a
distilled no-nonsense field and target
gun. The low-profile aluminum receiver
is sleek and lightweight, which includes a
steel insert in the breech area for strength.
A single selective mechanical trigger, a
tang-mounted safety, chrome-lined barrels
and Turkish walnut sum it up. The receivers
are scaled for the .410, and the barrels
chamber 2- to 3-inch shells. With 26-inch
barrels, it weighs just 5 pounds making
it an ideal field gun in upland country. This
one is a real bargain.
savagearms.com $692

PRO

CON

Not a token
left-handed
gun.

Not as cheap
as some
imports.

BOTTOM
LINE
Greatly
increases
options for
southpaws.

PRO

CON

Great
Its heavier than
handling and
other inertia
balance with a
guns listed
recoil-reducing
here.
gas system.

BOTTOM LINE

PRO

CON

Big Greens
all-American
answer to the
un-American
inertia
movement.

Handles all
.410 loads and
comes with five
choke tubes.

No short LOP
version is
available for
small people
and kids.

BOTTOM
LINE
Sub-gauge
over-under at
a pump-gun
price.

XT 22
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84

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

TYPE
GAUGE
CHAMBERED
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT

TYPE
GAUGE
CHAMBERED
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT

Semiautomatic
12
3 in.
28 in., 26 in.
49.5 in., 47.5 in.
6 lbs., 9oz.

TYPE
GAUGE
CHAMBERED
BARREL
OAL
WEIGHT

Over/under
12
3 in.
28 in., 26 in.
45.75 in., 43.75 in.
7 lbs.

Pump-action
20
3 in.
18 in.
38.5 in.
6 lbs.

STEVENS S1200

WEATHERBY ORION I

WINCHESTER SXP 20 GA.

Stevens is known for producing functional,

affordable shotguns, and the S1200 is the
brands first semiauto offering. Its an inertia
12 gauge available with a black synthetic,
walnut, Mossy Oak Bottomland camo or
Shadow Grass camo stock. This gun is engineered to use Beretta MobilChokes, and
there are five included. The S1200 has a
3-inch chamber, 14-inch length of pull and
5+1 magazine capacity. The inertia system
operates with a wide range of loads, so the
S1200 is as adept at the clays range as it is
in a goose pit devouring 3-inch magnums.
This is a very affordable entry into the world
of inertia-operated semiautos.
savagearms.com $573+

The Weatherby name is most closely associated with rifles and red-hot cartridges,
but it has been selling shotguns for more
than 50 years. Best-loved were the Orion
and Athena lines, which were produced by
SKB in Japan. Then, Weatherby shotguns
were no longer ... until now! The new
Orion I is made in Turkey and features a
low-profile boxlock action with ejectors
and a high-gloss walnut stock. Theres a
top tang-mounted safety/barrel selector,
and the barrels are chrome lined. These
guns are available in 12 gauge with either
26- or 28-inch barrels and three chokes (IC,
M and F). Were happy its back.
weatherby.com $1,100

Winchester started adding 20-gauge

models to its successful SXP line last year,
and the trend continues this year. As of
2016, the SXP Waterfowl, Universal Hunter
and Marine Defender are all available in 20
gauge. All three have synthetic stocks with
textured grips, interchangeable Invector
Plus chokes and recoil-harnessing Inflex
recoil pads. They come with 3-inch chambers, and the Waterfowl and Universal
Hunter received full-dip camo patterns. All
SXP models come with a rotating four-lug
bolt head. Weve found that these are
some of the most affordable repeating
shotguns on the market.
winchesterguns.com $430+

PRO

CON

A new breed of
inertia-operated semiauto
shotgun.

No recoil
reduction
system or
shim kit.

BOTTOM
LINE
Stevens knows
how to make
affordable,
reliable guns.

PRO
Expensive
features at a
reasonable
price.

CON

BOTTOM

LINE
The rounded
forearm profile Looks and feels
gives it a portly like it should
cost way more
look.
than $1,000.

PRO

CON

An affordable
pump-shotgun
that doesnt
feel cheap.

The crossbolt
safety is
located ahead
of the trigger.
Boo.

BOTTOM
LINE
Winchesters
blue-chip,
blue-collar
shotgun is
versatile.

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m ay 2 0 1 6

New and unique .380 aCP projectile

designs, the FBI makes its return to
the 9mm and rifle rounds are more
efficient and effective. Weve never
had it so good. CHRIS MUDGETT

y the end of the first day of the

2016 SHOT Show, one thing

was certain: Bullet technology is continuing to advance
at a historical rate. Allcopper and copper-blend rifle projectiles are showing the most promise,
and a variety of .380 ACP ammunition
was proudly at the forefront of many
exhibits. The same was true for highperformance and inexpensive practice
9mm ammo. With rumors all but confirmed that the FBI is returning to the
9mm cartridge, manufacturers are anticipating the trickle down effect it will have
on law enforcement agencies and those
who carry concealed pistols for home
and personal defense. It also seems as
though ammunition manufacturers have
all boarded the .300 Blackout train. It is
the Donald Trump of cartridges; everyone predicted its fall, but popularity has
done nothing but increase. 2016 is going
to be a good year for us ammo hoarders.

G&A

87

88

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

ARMSCOR .22 TCM 9R

I feel the need ... the need for speed!
Armscors .22 TCM 9R is a supercharged
.22 caliber/9mm hybrid. Were not sure
which one it more closely resembles,
we just know its super fast. The newly
designed round fits perfectly in 9mm
Glock magazines and feeds the companys
Glock conversion kit like a champ. Recoil
is low, blast is loud and did we mention
its fast? A few serious shooters already rely
on this cartridge for personal defense.
armscor.com $21.53/box (50 rds.)

PRO

CON

BOTTOM

Smokin hot, So far, Armscor

LINE
barely any
is the sole
Right now, its
recoil. Sounds
source for
an awesome
like a winner.
guns.
range toy.

BLACK HILLS .300 BLACKOUT

Black Hills Ammunition is no stranger to
the .300 Blackout/Whisper cartridge. Lucky
for all of us, theyre now offering the commercial market two new loads to start. The
first is an OTM 125-grain load, the second
is a 125-grain TMK (Tipped MatchKing).
The new TMK by Sierra is crowned with an
acetal resin tip that lowers drag by improving ballistic coefficient (BC). Also on the
docket is a new fluted .380 ACP cartridge
that is downright frightening to look at.
black-hills.com $30/box (20 rds.)

PRO

CON

If its from
Black Hills, you
know its going
to be good.

Cutting-edge
technology
comes with a
price.

BOTTOM
LINE
Ammo to trust
with your life.

BROWNING AMMUNITION
We are going to start referring to Brownings
new line of ammunition as smart ammo.
Each caliber is designed to crush the target
it is intended to be used against. Editor Eric
R. Poole and contributor Craig Boddington
used Brownings new rifle rounds on whitetails this past fall with great success. The
entrance wounds looked like exit wounds, if
that is any indication. The new ammo line is
available from .22LR to center-fire pistol and
rifle, all the way to shotshells.
browningammo.com

PRO

CON

A home run in
the first inning
of the game.

They cant
make .22LR
fast enough.

BOTTOM
LINE
Incredible
performance.

m ay 2 0 1 6

G&A

89

FEDERAL HST
Federal Premium Ammunitions HST line
has proven to be exceedingly popular
with law enforcement agencies. Pre-SHOT
Show rumors swirled, consuming some
web forums, anticipating a new 150-grain
9mm HST offering. Rumor confirmed. Its
here, and its designed with short-barreled semiautomatic pistols in mind. The
old 147-grain load was a tack driver and
crushed the FBI tests. We expect the new
load to do even better.
federalpremium.com $25/box (20 rds.)

PRO
A proven
performer just
got better.

CON

BOTTOM

Give us
LINE
This is bad-guy
50-round
boxes. 20
repellent at its
finest.
rounds is
barely a mag!

FEDERAL 3RD DEGREE 20 GAUGE

Last year, Federal introduced turkey hunters to its 12-gauge 3rd Degree load; this
year, we get the same but in 20-gauge. The
3rd Degree gets its name from its threestage payload. Twenty percent of the load
is No. 6 pellets, 40 percent of the load is
copper plated No. 5s, and the remaining
40 percent are heavyweight for those long,
40-plus yard shots. This is all contained in a
Flightcontrol wad, similar to the technology
used in their law enforcement shells.
federalpremium.com $18/box (5 shells)

PRO

CON

BOTTOM

Can you say

Errr, five
LINE
ethical 50-yard rounds per box. Makes new
shots?
Again, barely turkey hunters
look like
enough.
veterans.

HORNADY ELD & ELD-X

Sometimes the greatest achievements
happen by accident. This is how the engineers at Hornady discovered their most
advanced long-range bullet. When Doppler radar revealed conventional bullet tip
technology was melting beyond 400 yards,
engineers developed the ELD and gave it
a heat shield to keep shots on target.
hornady.com $38.60+/box (20 rds.)

PRO

CON

Maintains
What about our
the same BC
old ammo?
throughout its
flight path.

BOTTOM
LINE
No more
excuses for
misses past
400 yards.

90

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

RUGER ARX

SIG SAUER V-CROWN

Aside from the polymer-copper construction, accuracy

and low recoil, the new Ruger ARX projectile by
PolyCase Ammunition produces admirable real-world
terminal performance thanks to its fluted profile. The
bullet increases cavitation and displaces fluid at higher
speeds than conventional projectiles, generating
larger temporary and permanent wound cavities, while
penetrating as deep as 13 to 15 inches. These are
great numbers for self-defense ammunition.
ruger.com $29+/box (20 rds.)

SIG Sauer is becoming a one-stop-shop for consumers desiring all things SIG. Fortunately, the company
is going all in. One thing we can say for certain is
that they are not skimping on quality. G&A tested a
variety of their loads, and they are all performers (and
not just in SIG Sauer firearms). For 2016, SIG Sauer is
expanding its line to include .38 Special, .38 Super,
.357 Magnum and .44 Magnum. These join a portfolio
of service pistol loads and two .300 Blackout offerings.
sigsauer.com $15+/box (20 rds.)

PRO
Is plastic the
bullet of the
future?

CON

BOTTOM

No cost savings
LINE
Forward
for molded
thinking ammo.
bullets.

PRO

CON

BOTTOM LINE

Theyve pulled
out the stops.

SIG Sauer is
closer to world
domination.

A SIG Sauer
enthusiasts
dream we all
benefit from.

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m ay 2 0 1 6

G&A

WINCHESTER M22 SUBSONIC

WINCHESTER USA FORGED

Pew, pew pew! Everyone loves .22LR and it doesnt

take long to fall for a suppressed rimfire pistol or rifle.
Winchesters new M22 subsonic ammunition consists of a 45-grain black-plated round nose projectile
backed by extremely clean burning powder to keep
that barrel and suppressor a little cleaner. These
rounds are designed specifically for suppressed .22LR
repeaters, including AR platforms.
winchester.com $12+/box (100 rds.)

Winchesters new USA Forged comes in 150-round

boxes, the near perfect round-count for an efficient
practice session at the range. Not enough, you say?
Im with you. Also available are 750-round cases. The
USA Forged name comes from the precision manufactured steel case each 115-grain 9mm FMJ projectile
is loaded into. Cases are coated with a proprietary
surface treatment for flawless function.
winchester.com $33/box (150 rds.)

PRO

CON

BOTTOM LINE

More .22LR is
good for the
world.

Will it stay on
shelves long?
We think not.

Quality
subsonic
ammunition.

PRO

CON

Inexpensive, Non-reloadable.
quality training
ammunition.

BOTTOM LINE
Who wants
to keep brass
anyway?

91

W W W. E O T E C H I N C . C O M

An

Company

2015, L-3 EOTech

XPS2

m ay 2 0 1 6

Regardless of whether you like to print

small groups, target practice, compete
or hunt, this year's new optics will only
make us better. TOM BECKSTRAND

hot show was like christmas

for those of us keeping up with

scopes, rangefinders, binos and
more. This year, EOTech made
the move into the variablepowered optics game and Vortex unveiled
its Razor HD Advanced Manufacturing
Group, or AMG, the brand-new department within. Aimpoint brought us three
new magnifiers including a potent one in
6X, and Leupold took a best-selling scope,
made it better and knocked several greenbacks off the asking price. Not too shabby.
New optic products ran the gamut from
Bushnells very competitively priced Trophy Xtreme X30 (with a killer, no-questions-asked warranty) to a completely new
lineup from SIG Sauer's Electro-Optics.
Unfortunately, most of the development
this year skews toward the more expensive
side. This is due to the increased interest
in long-range shooting and manufacturers moving to meet that markets demands.
While SHOT was the big ta-da! of the
year, there will be new offerings trickling in
between now and December. Stand by.

G&A

93

94

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

AIMPOINT 6XMAG-1
LENGTH 6 in.
WEIGHT 8.8 oz.

BURRIS XTR II 1-8x24

POWER 1-8X
OBJECTIVE 24mm
ELEVATION .1 mil
WINDAGE .1 mil
LENGTH 10.75 in.
WEIGHT 24.4 oz.

TRIJICON ACCUPOWER 3-9x40

POWER 3-9X
OBJECTIVE 40mm
ELEVATION .25 MOA
WINDAGE .25 MOA
LENGTH 12.3 in.
WEIGHT 17 oz.

AIMPOINT 6XMAG-1

BURRIS XTR II 1-8x24

TRIJICON ACCUPOWER

Aimpoint introduced a new family of 3X

and 6X magnifiers designed for use behind
its red dot sights. The 6XMAG-1 is our
favorite. It utilizes an improved rotating
mount that allows the magnifier to be
rotated 90 degrees when not in use. This
affords us unrestricted viewing through the
red dot sight. Aimpoint's highest power
magnifier is this new 6X and it has a +/- 3
diopter ocular focus. The ocular focus is
big news for these magnifiers and allows
shooters to better focus both the dot and
target. The 6XMAG-1 is primarily designed
for use with the finer resolution red dots in
the Aimpoint Micro T-2 and H-2.
aimpoint.com $907

Burris continues to impress us with its new

and extremely popular XTR II line. We're
looking forward to the 1-8x24mm. This
variable-powered scope has Burris ballistic
circle dot reticle in the first focal plane (FFP)
and the ballistic dot reticle in the second
focal plane (SFP) model. Since the FFP
reticle is hard to see at 1X, the large circle
around the crosshairs works much like a
red dot sight. At higher magnification, the
reticles subtension becomes useable. The
SFP reticle is always visible and easy to
read, but subtension is only accurate at 8X.
The scope has a 34mm maintube and will
benefit us out to several hundred yards.
burrisoptics.com $1,200

Trijicons newest line of scopes represents

a departure from its tritium/fiber optic dual
illuminated AccuPoint models in favor of
LED illumination for the new AccuPower.
All reticles sit in the second focal plane
(SFP) and are illuminated. There are three
reticles available for each scope: duplex,
MOA-based crosshair and mil-based crosshair. The 1-4x24mm model has a fourth reticle available that has a larger segmented
circle around the crosshair that works like a
red dot sight when illuminated. All scopes
have a 30mm maintube except for the
3-9x40mm, which has a 1-inch maintube.
Turrets are capped on all.
trijicon.com $700

PRO

CON

Allows fast red

dot sights to
be used like
a scope with
no need to
re-zero.

At nearly
$1,000, it's
expensive.

BOTTOM
LINE
It's worth
saving up to
own at least
one.

PRO

CON

Scope would
be at home
on almost any
rifle.

Expensive.

BOTTOM
LINE
Still cheaper
than a Leupold
CQBSS.

PRO

CON

Trijicon
Capped
variableelevation turret
powered optics limits use at
just got more
long range.
affordable.

BOTTOM
LINE
Built on
battlefield
ruggedness.

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96

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

EOTECH VUDU

LEUPOLD VX-3i

MEOPTA MEOPRO 6.5-20x50 HTR

Another new line of scopes moves EOTech

into the variable-powered optics field. The
first three models available will include
a 1-6x24mm, a 2.5-10x44mm and a 3.518x50mm. All of the scopes come with
what EOTech refers to as high-density
(HD) glass, meaning the glass has a high
lead content so image quality should be
exceptional. The reticles on the 2-10X and
the 3.5-18X are mil-based and subtend
in -mil increments. The 1-6X reticle is
also mil-based with a center dot/crosshair
combo surrounded by a large circle. All
reticles are in the first focal plane (FFP)
and remind us of the brand's roots in
Holographic sights. Plus, EOTech's forever
guarantee doesn't require proof of ownership or a warranty card.
eotechinc.com $1,300

The VX-3 has been a popular hunting scope

for a long time, and for good reasons.
Image quality and the scopes durability
ensured that it always performed when
called upon. Unusual as it might sound, this
scope just got better and more affordable.
That almost never happens, but Leupold
chose to update the line by improving lens
coatings to enhance performance under
low light. These improvements also help
when looking at game in shadows. Since
those scenarios are the most difficult for a
scope, Leupold spent most of its energy
tuning the coatings on the VX-3i to handle
those demands. The power adjustment ring
also got a little bit bigger and, to top it off,
Leupold knocked about $100 off the asking
price. Well played, Leupold.
leupold.com $650

Meoptas latest scope was designed with

the varmint hunter and long-range hunter
in mind. The MeoPro has a wide magnification range that takes advantage of the
scopes second focal plane (SFP) reticles.
The Hunt/Tactical/Range (HTR) version has
exposed elevation and windage turrets
that allow us to precisely dial point of
impact (POI) onto the target at any range.
The side-focus or parallax adjustment
eliminates parallax for those long shots
and keeps our aim true on small targets
at close distances. The new Windmax 8
reticle allows shooters to dial elevation and
hold for wind, thanks to multiple subtension points along the horizontal crosshair,
and the lift-to-set turrets can be quickly
zeroed with either a tool or coin.
meoptasportsoptics.com $1,150

PRO

CON

BOTTOM LINE

PRO

CON

BOTTOM LINE

Image quality is
excellent.

A bit pricey.

If you like
EOTech sights,
you'll love
these.

A good scope
just got better.
(And less
expensive.)

Hmm ...

If you had to
have one scope,
this could be it.

PRO

CON

BOTTOM LINE

Magnification
If you're not on the Great bang for the
range, glass quality Internet, it might be
buck.
and reticles all
hard to find.
make sense.

m ay 2 0 1 6

EOTECH VUDU 1-6x24

POWER 1-6X
OBJECTIVE 24mm
ELEVATION .5 MOA
WINDAGE .5 MOA
LENGTH 10.63 in.
WEIGHT 19.75 oz.

LEUPOLD VX-3i 4.5-14x40

POWER 4.5-14X
OBJECTIVE 40mm
ELEVATION .25 MOA
WINDAGE .25 MOA
LENGTH 12.6 in.
WEIGHT 13 oz.

MEOPTA MEOPRO 6.5-20x50 HTR

POWER 6.5-20X
OBJECTIVE 50mm
ELEVATION .25 MOA
WINDAGE .25 MOA
LENGTH 15.6 in.
WEIGHT 21.83 oz.

G&A

97

98

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

NIGHTFORCE ATACR TREMOR3

NIKON SPOT ON

SIG SAUER WHISKEY3

Word on the street is that the U.S. Special

Operations Command (SOCOM) will
adopt a new reticle for its snipers and
that the new reticle will be the TReMoR3.
Nightforce is getting ahead of the game
and offering the new reticle in its popular
ATACR family of riflescopes. The reticle
has been found in the smaller 4-16x42mm
ATACR, but only recently has it become
available in the flagship 5-25x56mm
ATACR and 5-25x56mm B.E.A.S.T. scopes.
The TReMoR3 reticle incorporates time-offlight (or wind) dots into the classic H-59.
Scopes are in either first focal plane (FFP)
or second focal plane (SFP) and loaded
with features including ZeroHold, multicoated ED glass and Tenebraex flip covers.
nightforceoptics.com $2,900

Nikons Spot On system couples its family

of reticles and scopes with ballistic software that is some of the most affordable
and easiest to use. By visiting the Spot
On website or downloading the free app
to a smartphone, users can determine the
exact distances where the bullet from their
rifle intersects with aiming points on the
reticle. This allows shooters to zero the rifle
and still have accurate holds on a reticle
regardless of the cartridge and load that
sits under the scope. Most ballistic reticles
only work with a specific cartridge and
load; the Spot On system can work with
any rifle/cartridge the shooter fires. Add
Nikon's custom turrets and a Nikon Prostaff
rangefinder to complete the kit.
nikonsportoptics.com $500

This scope line marks the entry level for SIG

Sauers new optics group. The Whiskey3
is akin to the meat-and-potatoes optic targeted at hunters. The 3-9x40mm promises
to be one of the most popular and comes
standard with a 1-inch maintube, capped
1/4-MOA turrets and a Triplex reticle. The
Triplex reticle is a simple crosshair with
the option of an illuminated dot at the
center. Its one of the better looking 3-9X
scopes out there with its gray body and
black accents. Most noteworthy concerning
SIG Sauers optics is the Infinite Guarantee. Should a scope ever break, it will be
repaired or replaced. There is no need to
fill out a warranty card, and theres no expiration date. This is the new standard.
sigoptics.com $250

PRO
No reticle is
faster to use
on a multiple
target
engagement.

CON

BOTTOM

Shooters new
LINE
to the reticle For when you
might be overwant what
whelmed by its SOCOM wants.
intricacy.

PRO

CON

Ballistic calculator software

works well and
is free.

Only works
with Nikon
scopes and
reticles.

BOTTOM
LINE
Most economical way to
explore ballistic
calculators.

PRO

CON

Comes with one We need more time

free custom turret behind these to valtailored for the idate dependability.
owners preferred
load and rifle.

BOTTOM LINE
SIG Sauer wasn't
content just
making guns and
ammo.

The BCMGUNFIGHTER VG The BCMGUNFIGHTER KAG

Kinesthetic Angled Grip

Low-profile length for increased mobility and decreased snag factor.

The forward angle increases the rigidity of the forearm, while providing a more natural wrist angle.
Can be mounted in reverse angle to increase control when grabbing
handguard and grip.
Flat sides with aggressive texture give better yaw control to the shooter during firing and non-firing manipulations.
Anchor and bolt system offers a simple robust design, while maintaining a light-weight 1.9 ounces.
Made in the U.S.A. from high quality, impact resistant polymers.
Available in Black, Flat Dark Earth, Foliage Green and Wolf Gray.

Forward rake gives positive retention when using C-clamp method

of handguard support. Works as a rest for supported firing positions.
Slight angle without bulk adds just the right amount of strain relief to
the wrist without substantially increasing the girth of the handguard.
Small profile is just enough to get repeatable hand position on
weapon, textured front and back for positive engagement.
Innovative patent pending attachment method allows for robust
clamping and alignment with minimal hardware and accessory size.
Made in the U.S.A. from high quality, impact resistant polymers.
Available in Black, Flat Dark Earth, Foliage Green and Wolf Gray.

BCMGUNFIGHTER VG-KM-MOD-3 - KeyMod Version. . . . . . . $18.95

BCMGUNFIGHTER VG-1913-MOD-3 - Picatinny Rail Version $19.95

BCMGUNFIGHTER KAG-KM - KeyMod Version . . . . . . . . . . . . $18.95

BCMGUNFIGHTER KAG-1913 - Picatinny Rail Version . . . . . $19.95

All pricing is subject to change without notice. Please see our website for current pricing.

Hartland, WI U.S.A. / Toll Free: 1-877-BRAVO CO (1-877-272-8626) / Fax: 262-367-0989 / BravoCompanyMFG.com

m ay 2 0 1 6

NIGHTFORCE ATACR TREMOR3 4-16x42

POWER 4-16X
OBJECTIVE 42mm
ELEVATION .1 mil
WINDAGE .1 mil
LENGTH 12.6 in.
WEIGHT 30 oz.

NIKON MONARCH 3
POWER 4-16X
OBJECTIVE 50mm
ELEVATION .25 MOA
WINDAGE .25 MOA
LENGTH 14.7 in.
WEIGHT 19.4 oz.

G&A

SIG SAUER WHISKEY3 3-9x40

POWER 3-9X
OBJECTIVE 40mm
ELEVATION .25 MOA
WINDAGE .25 MOA
LENGTH 12.3 in.
WEIGHT 15.7 oz.

CIGARS
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1-888-244-2790
mention code SA1678

www.CigarsIntl.com/SA1678
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*Plus $2.99 s/h. Offer expires 7-15-16. PA residents

add 6% tax taxes on orders shipped outside of
PA are the responsibility of the purchaser. Offer
available to first-time purchasers. One per customer.
From time to time substitutions may occur. Cigars
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under the age of 21. For more information please
see www.cigarsinternational.com/ageverify.

Includes 1 each of:

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Bahia Arganese 5 Vegas

32

VALUE

99

100

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

STEINER DBAL-A4
LENGTH 5.2 in.
WEIGHT 10.8 oz.

PRO

CON

Every accessory we need is

now in a single
package.

Super
expensive.

BOTTOM
LINE
When you just
have to have
it all in one
package.

BUSHNELL X30 4-16x44

POWER 4-16X
OBJECTIVE 44mm
ELEVATION .25 MOA
WINDAGE .25 MOA
LENGTH 14 in.
WEIGHT 20.1 oz.

PRO

CON

BOTTOM

Great features We still need

LINE
at a killer price. more time with Potentially the
This is the new
this one.
best value for a
standard for
variable in this
warranties in
magnification
the industry.
range.

STEINER DBAL-A4

BUSHNELL TROPHY X30

This new device sits on a rifles forend and houses a visible green
laser, an infrared (IR) laser, IR illuminator and traditional white light.
Thats a lot going on in one device, but the DBAL line has been
in service with our Special Operations for many years, and the
DBAL-A4 represents further evolution of that line. The IR laser and
illuminator make shooting accurately in the dark almost as easy as
shooting in daylight. The IR laser puts a bright dot on the target
and the illuminator works as an IR flashlight, lighting up everything
around the target with our night vision on. The white light works
just like any other light, but incorporating it into the DBAL body
saves us a ton of forend real estate.
steiner-optics.com $2,200

This new scope from Bushnell shows a ton of promise. Its reasonably priced, comes with a fantastic reticle and has all the features
needed to make it a good all-purpose scope. The 30mm maintube has an appropriately sized erector assembly, so the internal
lenses make good use of the scopes real estate. Field of view
(FOV) should be exceptional with this one. This line is available
with three new reticles that offer multiple aiming points so they
can either be used as a ballistic reticle or teamed with an app for
general-purpose use. The Trophy Xtreme line also comes with
Bushnells No Questions Asked Lifetime Warranty. If it ever breaks,
they will fix or replace it for free.
bushnell.com $260

PROVEN WINNERS ON ANY RANGE.

PRECISION
BENCHREST

And at any range.

Since 1992, Nightforce
rifescopes have been used
to win more matches and set
more records in long-range
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brand. Our Competition
and Precision Benchrest
models are purpose-built
for one reasonto give the
competitive shooter every
possible advantage under
every conceivable condition.

8-32 x 56
12-42
2-42 x 56

COMPETITION
15-55 x 52

NEW COMPETITION
FIXED 42 x 44

336 Hazen Lane, Orofno, ID 83544

208.476.9814

Learn more at NightforceOptics.com

THE BERETTA NANO IS THE ULTIMATE

EVOLUTION OF CONCEALED CARRY PISTOLS
With a completely snag-free design and 8-round capacity,
the Beretta Nano is confidence you can carry.

FDE Grip Frame

OD Green Grip Frame

Safe disassembly with no trigger pull

Totally ambidextrous
Up to 8 round capacity
Removable sub-chassis for grip frame options
Complete line of accessories available

For information on our pistols visit www.Beretta.com

Pink Grip Frame

LaserMax Laser

102

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6

VORTEX RAZOR HD AMG 6-24x50

POWER 6-24X
OBJECTIVE 50mm
ELEVATION .25 MOA
WINDAGE .25 MOA
LENGTH 15.2 in.
WEIGHT 28.8 oz.

VORTEX RAZOR HD AMG

The Vortex Razor HD AMG is the brand's newest glass from its new division, the Advanced
Manufacturing Group. This 6-24x50mm scope
has a 30mm maintube, locking turrets that
include a zero-stop, and a couple of new
reticles to keep both MOA- and mil-lovers
happy. Vortex developed a new manufacturing
process that allows them to use much bigger
lenses inside the scope, lenses that we would
normally only see in 34mm maintubes. This
gives the AMG an incredible field of view
(FOV) and adjustment range. Great glass
inside keeps image quality sharp from one
edge of the image to the other.
vortexoptics.com $3,400

PRO

CON

Incredible features
tucked into a small
profile.

BOTTOM LINE

Price will limit

In the not-tooappeal to optic distant future, more
super-consumers affordable scopes
only.
will attempt to copy
this one.

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104 G & A m ay 2 0 1 6
PROOFHOUSE

Bond Arms Brown Bear California Edition

CALIFORNIA LEGAL
BOND ARMS PROVIDES some serious portable power
for shooters stuck living behind the lines in California.
Starting 20 years ago as Texas Armory, Bond Arms
is a family-run company that understands that it takes
quality to survive the firearms business for the long
haul. Bond Arms thoroughly modernized the original derringer-type pistol by utilizing state-of-the-art
materials and machining techniques. In this day and age
of pocket-sized 9mm pistols, some might ask, Why?
The answer is multifaceted and, like most things gun
related, very subjective.
Certain folks prefer the feel of steel and wood in
their hand. For them, its not just about effectiveness;
its about tradition and the intangibles. While not all
Guns & Ammo staff members subscribe to this mindset, we all respect it. During our time at the range with
Bond Arms new Brown Bear, it couldnt be ignored.

Everyone wanted to shoot it. It remains an iconic,

timeless design that screams tradition. Bond Arms adds
the part about contemporary craftsmanship. Placing
the husky little over-under into your hand, its difficult
to think of a scenario where two well-placed .45 caliber
holes would be ignored by an adversary.
Bond Arms frames are machined from cast stainless steel
and formed into the distinctive, curved, birds-head-style
stocks. The frame is adorned with attractive wood stocks
created by Bond Arms at its Granbury, Texas, factory. The
barrels are stacked and precision-forged from stainless
steel, attached to the frame with a heavy-duty screw.
This is where the California Compliant detail comes in.
The screw and screw hole on this Brown Bear model are
a different size than those on non-California-spec guns,
preventing users from attaching a .410 shotgun barrel on
the frame, which is illegal in The Golden State.

G&A

105

PHOTOS: ALFREDO RICO

m ay 2 0 1 6

The cross-block
safety and the hammer are milled from
solid stainless steel,
imparting a solid
feel when moving
through the range.
When the safety
moves or the hammer falls, shooters
know it.

The removable
barrel assembly is a
heavy, one-piece unit
milled from stainless
steel and containing
the spring loaded
ejector mechanism.
Despite a rather
high round count for
such a little gun, the
ejector never faltered
and made removal of
spent cartridges an
easy task.

106

G&A

m ay 2 0 1 6 | B o n d A r m s B r o w n B e A r C A l i f o r n i A e d i t i o n

The little pistol

feels more solid
than its 20-ounce
weight indicates,
but still fits comfortably in even
medium sized
hands.

The stocks are handsome, carved from a

beautiful rosewood and tastefully laser
engraved with a Brown Bear logo. The checkering is machine-cut and comfortable in the
hand, providing an enhanced gripping surface
without being too abrasive. The shape of the
grip also helps mitigate recoil.

PERFORMANCE
VELOCITY
(FPS)

ED

SD

BEST
GROUP (IN.)

AVERAGE
GROUP (IN.)

Hornady Crit. Def. 185-gr. FTX

908

24

11

4.4

4.6

Winchester Silvertip 225-gr. JHP

860

31

14

5.2

Hornady Cowboy 255-gr. FN Lead

697

18

5.4

5.7

LOAD

Bond Arms Brown Bear (CA Legal)

Another factor is the grip design.
For shooters that live in free states,
Type: Break open, over/under,
Because it is so rounded, the pistol
the barrel assemblies are interchangesingle action
rolls in recoil, reducing the force transable, allowing you to switch calibers as
Cartridge: .45 Colt
ferred directly to the firing hand. We
the need dictates. Otherwise, there are
Capacity: 2 rds.
Barrel:
3
in.
noted that with a little less grip tenno differences.
Overall
length:
5
in.
sion than normal, our recovery times
One of the improvements that
Weight: 20 oz.
were just as quick, with the benefit
Bond Arms made to the Brown Bear
Finish: Brushed stainless steel
of slightly less noticeable recoil. This
was to incorporate the triggerguard
Grips: Laser engraved and
checkered
rosewood
is not to say that it was a walk in the
into the frame. While it may seem like
Sights:
Fixed
blade
(front),
fixed
park. During one particular range sesa small detail to some, it is worthwhile
notch (rear)
sion, a staff member fired 50 rounds
when one is used to using a pistol
Trigger: 6 lbs., 8 oz. (tested)
MSRP: $445
of various makes and manufacture
with a triggerguard.
Manufacturer:
Bond
Arms
through the Brown Bear. At the end
The operation is simple: The
817-573-4445
bondarms.com
of that test fire, they stated, Thats
shooter depresses a spring-loaded
enough of the .45 Colt for the day.
lever located on the left side of the
The trigger was manageable at 6 pounds, but had a
frame, just behind the trigger. This allows the springdistinct arc of travel that requires some getting used to.
loaded barrel assembly to pop up and rotate rearOnce the cross-bolt safety was removed, it was a simple
ward, exposing the chambers. This motion also causes
matter to get the trigger finger placed appropriately on the
the spring-loaded extractors to raise, which starts the
trigger, and the trigger responded best to an almost diagextraction process if there are casings in the chambers.
onal pressure down and back with the pad of the trigger
Extraction is completed by pushing the ejector on the left
side of the barrel assembly, exposing enough of the casing finger. As it pertains to accuracy, the two barrels are not
calibrated to shoot through the same hole; they are parallel
to reliably pull them out with the support hand. Once the
new rounds are loaded into the chamber, the barrel assem- to one another, so dispersion is to be expected. G&A
placed a target at 15 yards and commenced firing. With the
bly is rotated down and locks into place with an audible
variety of loads shot through the gun, the Hornady Critical
click. During use, G&A observed that rotating the pistol to
Defense 185-grain FTX grouped the best, with two distinct
the side while closing it allowed for increased control over
groups 6 inches apart, and the lower barrel (calibrated with
muzzle direction and a more positive closing of the pistol.
Shooting the little .45 Colt was not nearly as harsh as one the sights) grouping at 4.6 inches. The upper barrels group
was about 6 inches high and slightly more dispersed, with
might imagine. The gun is hefty for its size, weighing 20
all of the shots grouping at just over 6 inches. This was
ounces, which helps soak up some of the felt recoil.

m ay 2 0 1 6

G&A

107

a trend that would continue, as the

other two loads fired also showed
a preference for the lower barrel.
The Winchester Silvertip 225-grain
hollowpoint produced an average of
5.2 inches and was marginally more
comfortable to shoot than the hotter
Hornady load. The Hornady 255grain Cowboy ammo was an absolute
sweetheart to shoot, but resulted in
a third-place accuracy average of 5.7
inches. Velocity was affected by the
abbreviated barrel and not surprisingly the faster moving projectiles
lost more velocity, while the slower
rounds shed less. That being said,
if we were using this pistol for its
intended purpose, we would stick with
the lighter bullets as they were still
moving along out of the 3-inch barrel,
and its projectile construction is optimized for their velocity envelope.
G&A also had the opportunity to
have a little fun with one of Bond
Arms Cowboy Defenders, a .38-special model that had been slicked up
for competition by the company for
Garrett Waterloo Martin, the world
champion derringer shooter. (Yes,
there is such a thing.) While observing Waterloo, we watched him fire
two shots from the table into a target
about 3 yards away in .6 second. Two
shots with two hits in .6 of a second is
an amazing feat. Theres a reason that
all of these world champions in the
last 15 years are using Bond Arms.
The Bond Arms derringers may not
be for everyone, but they are well
crafted, heirloom-quality guns that
blend state-of-the-art manufacturing
with classic lines. If the heady combination of style, tradition and .45 Colt
gets you to carry a gun, then G&A is
all for it. The more good people with
guns, the better off we all are.

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110 G & A m ay 2 0 1 6
G&A ALMANAC

AIRING THE
WEEK OF

television

2016

28
MARCH
Time to review new carbines including the Stag Arms
Model 9 and 9L during the At The Range segment.

THE HISTORY OF FN

Since 1889, FN has been one of the worlds largest firearms manufacturers. With a unique and storied past, its rise in becoming an
industry giant mirrors world history. Co-authored by Garry James
and Eric R. Poole, you can read this web exclusive at

2016

4
APRIL

gunsandammo.com/untold-fn-story.
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112 G & A

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SPENT CASES

Remington Model 1100

200th Anniversary
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mfg.), 12 ga., 24-karat
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FIELD-PROVEN FAVORITE
BILL JORDAN WAS CONFIDENT in the performance of
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harvest of bobwhite quail.
Gentlemen, this is the new Model 1100, Remington
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Introduced in January 1963 as a shotgun designed to
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another Remington sporting shotgun, the model 58. The
model 1100 incorporates a gas-operated design, which

offers shooters less felt recoil when compared to recoil-operated shotguns. Selling many millions of units since its
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without a malfunction or part breakage.
In addition to many of the design elements that made
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LIGHTNING CAN

TWICE.

A NEW CONCEPT IN AMERICAN-MADE MUZZLELOADING RIFLES

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kimber tle ii pistols

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an integrated mainspring lanyard slot (Pro and
Custom only), G10 grips and a fat top slide. The
Custom TLE/RL II, pictured here ofers all key
Kimber 1911 features with a 5-inch barrel, rail
and weighs in at 38 ounces.

TLEs feature tritium night

sights, front and back strap
checkering and aggressive G10
grips to ensure positive grip
control and sight acquisition in
a variety of environments.

All Kimber pistol parts are

manufactured to the tightest tolerances; each pistol
is hand-ftted. Models are
available in .45 ACP, 9mm
and 10mm.

Rail options allow for the

mounting of lights and lasers
for easy of target acquisition,
models ofered with threaded
barrels are ready to accept all
standard suppressors. Stainless fnish provides added
protection from moisture,
wear and tear.

MADE IN A MERIC A

WHAT ALL GUNS SHOULD BE

TM

(888) 243-4522
kimberamerica.com

2016, Kimber Mfg., Inc. All rights reserved. Information and specifcations are for reference only and subject to change without notice.