Barrel-life specifications are a familiar sight in government solicitations, technical documents, and manufacturer literature, but what do they actually mean? A barrel rated for a certain number of rounds is not necessarily guaranteed to perform identically throughout that entire service life, and the terminology can be easy to misunderstand. With different definitions, testing methods, and performance standards involved, “barrel life” is often more nuanced than a single round count might suggest. I’ve seen plenty of confusion surrounding the subject, so this quick overview will break down what barrel-life figures represent, how they are established, and what they do, and don’t, tell you about a barrel’s expected service life.

Advertised barrel life is a minimum acceptable estimated service life used under normal conditions. What does that mean? Used under normal shooting schedules per the TM and design parameters. If a gun runs faster and hotter than intended, a barrel can wear out quickly; you can even burn a barrel out in one day, but that is definitely outside its design parameters. Barrel service life is generally the minimum expected period before a barrel begins to show measurable degradation in areas such as accuracy, dispersion, erosion, or headspace. Barrel life doesn’t mean that when it hits that number it falls apart or has a catastrophic failure; instead, this is the minimum number at which the barrel should see any performance degradation, and the barrel can go way past this estimated number. Some weapons, like Kalashnikovs found in different hot spots around the world, are pushed far past their estimated service life and develop severe rifling wear. In certain parts of the world, it may only matter if it shoots, not if you actually hit the target, and others prefer to hit the target and desire a certain level of accuracy.

If we talk about machine gun barrel life, we go into dispersion to how long a barrel is expected to remain within specified performance or wear limits, often expressed in rounds fired. For example, the PKM has an advertised barrel service life of 15k rounds. This is also the minimum barrel life at which we shouldn’t see significant barrel degradation until past 15k rounds. Depending on the weapon system, barrels may be removed from service following visual inspection, gauging, dimensional checks, erosion measurements, or other maintenance criteria specified in the applicable technical documentation. This is either failing headspace or erosion. A barrel that fails the applicable erosion-gauge requirement has reached a condition where its throat or bore erosion exceeds the specified service limit.

That distinction is important because barrel life is not simply a countdown to a predictable failure. A specification such as “X rounds” should be understood as an engineering estimate tied to a particular set of conditions. Ammunition, firing schedule, barrel construction, cooling periods, environmental conditions, and the performance standard being measured can all affect the result.

In other words, reaching the stated service-life figure does not necessarily mean the barrel suddenly becomes incapable of firing. Likewise, a barrel that has fired fewer rounds than its nominal service life is not automatically in perfect condition. The round count provides a useful engineering benchmark, but it exists within a larger system of maintenance, inspection, ammunition, and firing conditions. Different operational requirements, such as for special forces, have different requirements; the heavier SOCOM-profile barrel was developed for M4A1 configurations and was subsequently incorporated into the Army M4A1 modernization and conversion Product Improvement Program (PIP). Second are the new HICAC and Flyweight programs: they call for hypervelocity 5.56 M855A1+ spicy ammunition, but they also call for using standard M855A1. The guns would be designed around a hotter cartridge, which would overbuild the weapon and barrel, so barrel life would increase by strictly using standard-velocity ammunition instead of hypervelocity ammunition.

Heat is one of the major variables

Heat is one of the most important factors affecting barrel life. Every shot produces a significant amount of thermal energy, and repeated firing over a short period can cause barrel temperatures to climb rapidly. If the weapon is operated according to its prescribed firing schedule, the design accounts for the expected thermal environment. When that schedule is exceeded, however, the thermal load can become substantially greater than the conditions used to establish the normal service-life expectation.

Firing continuously beyond a weapon's sustained rate of fire will overheat a barrel and create additional hazards. Army engineers have also identified approximately 400°F at the bore surface as a temperature associated with cook-off concerns in some small-arms applications. That figure should not be interpreted as a universal “barrel failure temperature”; it illustrates that thermal limits can become important well before a barrel reaches the temperatures associated with visible glowing.

At still higher temperatures, the effects become increasingly severe. Heat accelerates erosion and can alter the mechanical properties of barrel steel. Army research into high-temperature barrel materials has noted that conventional steel begins to lose strength at approximately 1,000°F, demonstrating why extreme thermal exposure is such an important engineering concern.

Why extreme heat changes the equation

Shooting until a barrel glows red hot causes severe, permanent damage. This extreme heat accelerates erosion and wear and can cause permanent metallurgical changes and a loss of mechanical properties. As the metal loses its mechanical integrity, the barrel becomes permanently compromised, drastically increasing the risk of a catastrophic failure. This is one reason the USSOCOM SCAR program was initiated regarding barrel failures when the M4 was used outside its design envelope.

This is one reason engineers distinguish between normal service life and operation outside the design envelope. A component can have a substantial nominal service life under its intended firing schedule while suffering dramatically different degradation under unusually intense thermal loading.

Perhaps the most damaging for barrels and weapons is the SPENDEX expenditure exercise. This is where they burn through sometimes large quantities of ammunition through a few weapons; this event will typically bring a few weapons past their acceptable shooting schedule and near the mechanical threshold of the weapon and barrels.

What happens when the design envelope is exceeded?

When the design envelope is exceeded and bad things happen, new requirements are created to address these shortcomings; one such incident led to the SOCOM SCAR program. M4 barrels exceeded their design envelope, resulting in catastrophic barrel failures. This is one reason the USSOCOM SCAR program was initiated regarding barrel failures when the M4 was used outside its design envelope. This led to the M4 heavy-profile SOCOM barrel now used Army-wide in the current M4A1 standard.

SOCOM and the big Army conducted testing to identify the boundaries of existing weapon systems and determine whether changes are needed for particular operational requirements. Army reporting on extreme testing, for example, describes tests intended to push several carbines toward their failure boundaries.

The important takeaway is that such testing should not be confused with ordinary service-life testing. Engineers deliberately examine what happens when systems encounter conditions beyond their expected use to identify weaknesses, failure modes, and potential improvements.

So what does a barrel-life number actually tell us?

The simplest way to understand an advertised barrel-life figure is as an engineering expectation under specified conditions, not a guarantee that every barrel will fail at precisely that round count.

A barrel's actual service life depends on how it is used and the criteria being applied to determine when it has reached the end of its useful service. Normal firing schedules, ammunition type, cooling, inspection procedures, manufacturing variables, and environmental conditions all matter.

That is ultimately what makes barrel-life specifications useful, and easy to misunderstand. The number is not a magic expiration date. It is a performance and durability estimate tied to a particular engineering scenario. Once the conditions change, the number alone may no longer tell the whole story.

Conclusion

Ultimately, barrel life is best understood as an engineering estimate rather than a hard expiration date. The advertised round count assumes the weapon is being used within its specified design and shooting schedule. Once those parameters are exceeded, particularly through excessive heat, the rate of wear and degradation can change significantly. Understanding the relationship between round count, firing schedule, and temperature provides a much clearer picture of what a barrel-life specification actually means.

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Weapons familiarization exists for exactly this moment: handing a soldier an unfamiliar rifle and letting muscle memory catch up. At Bemowo Piskie Training Area, Poland, a U.S. Army staff sergeant with 2nd Battalion, 3rd Field Artillery Regiment, part of NATO's Forward Land Forces Battle Group-Poland, fired a karabinek szturmowy wzor 96 "Beryl," Poland's standard-issue rifle since the late 1990s and a modernized descendant of the Kalashnikov pattern, built to run on the same 5.56x45mm NATO round as the M4.

Galco has rolled out the Combat Master 2.0, an updated take on its long-running Combat Master pancake belt holster, and the lineup now includes a fit for the Glock 17.

The headline change for this leather OWB holster is the optic cutaway. According to Galco, the Combat Master 2.0 is cut to accommodate most carry-style optics while still working with iron-sighted pistols, so it covers either setup on your Glock 17. Galco says the cutaway also allows "the pistol to clear leather even faster," which the company credits with promoting a quicker, smoother draw for shorter-waisted shooters.

Construction follows the Galco playbook: premium steerhide, hand-molded by the company's craftsmen to the specific handgun, with double-stitched seams. Galco says the detailed hand-molding gives the rig "excellent retention properties along with a beautiful appearance." A raised sweat guard sits between the pistol and the wearer, protecting both.

This is a traditional high-riding pancake design. The twin belt slots flank the holster body, drawing the handgun in close for concealment while distributing weight across the belt for comfort. Those slots accept belts up to 1 3/4 inches wide. Up top, the holster is open with full firing-grip access for a quick draw.

Specs:

• Construction: premium steerhide, hand-molded, double-stitched seams
• Design: high-riding pancake, open top, twin belt slots
• Optic cutaway: fits most carry optics or iron sights
• Raised sweat guard
• Belt fit: up to 1 3/4 in.

Galco lists the Glock 17 version as model CM2-224R; check Galco's site for pricing, color options and ordering details. For anyone running a Glock 17, iron sights or carry optic, an optic-ready leather option in the Combat Master line is welcome news.

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CZ 600+ Carbine key features:

• Caliber: .300 Blackout
• 18.5 inch threaded cold-hammer-forged barrel with lifetime barrel warranty
• User-interchangeable barrel system
• Lightweight beechwood stock made in-house, with Brno-inspired checkering
• Adjustable iron sights with a skeletonized rear and a fiber-optic front
• Integrated Picatinny rail on a lightweight duralumin receiver
• 10-round detachable magazine that can be locked in place for fixed-magazine operation
• User-adjustable trigger with four pull-weight settings
• Controlled-round feeding with a short ejector system
• S.E.A. safety system in the stock (Silent, Ergonomic, Ambidextrous)

For more details, please use CZ USA’s product page: https://www.czfirearms.com/products/centerfire-rifles/cz-600-plus-series/cz-600-plus-carbine 

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TFB first showed the SIG HYP rifle from the SIG NEXT Range Day in July 2025, when very few details were known. SIG Sauer's product page now fills in the picture, where the SIG HYP 6.8X51 goes under the tagline "Unlock the Potential of Hybrid Ammunition." Let’s take a closer look and see what the HYPe is all about.

The HYP is the first direct impingement modern sporting rifle capable of firing high-pressure hybrid ammunition. It is chambered in 6.8x51mm, also called 277 SIG FURY, and is built to deliver raw power, reliability and accuracy. High-quality components support that job, including a steel cam path insert, a steel feed ramp and a chrome-lined, hammer-forged barrel.

For more details and pricing on the hybrid ammunition, check here: https://www.sigsauer.com/ammunition/rifle-ammo/sig-fury-hybrid.html 

Controls are fully ambidextrous, covering the bolt catch, magazine catch, safety and charging handle. A SIG Matchlite DUO curved trigger is fitted to enhance accuracy, and replaceable steel-reinforced components protect the high-wear areas. The included magazine is a 20-round steel unit developed as part of the U.S. Army's Next Generation Squad Weapon Program, and the rifle uses the AR-10 magazine type. The HYP is covered by the SIG Sauer Infinite Guarantee, which means no receipt, no warranty card and fully transferable coverage that lasts forever.

SIG Sauer SIG HYP 6.8X51 key features:

• Chambered in 6.8x51mm Hybrid/277 SIG FURY
• First direct impingement rifle capable of firing high-pressure hybrid ammunition
• 16 inch barrel, 1:7 twist, 5/8-24 tapered shoulder threads
• 4-position adjustable mid-length direct impingement gas system
• Free-floating M-LOK alloy handguard
• SIG Matchlite DUO curved trigger
• Fully ambidextrous controls (bolt catch, magazine catch, safety, charging handle)
• Steel-reinforced components in high-wear areas
• One 20-round steel magazine developed for the NGSW Program
• Black anodized finish, 8.7 lbs

More Beretta @ TFB:

• Beretta Celebrates 500 Years with the 92FS Diamond One-Off
• TFB Review - Beretta APX A1 Full Size Tac with "A Really Bad Design"
• TFB Review: Making the Missing Link- Beretta 21A Bobcat Covert .25 ACP
• Beretta Celebrates 500 Years with the SO10 EELL History O/U Shotgun 
• Beretta Celebrates 500 Years Premiering the Titan One-Off

Beretta 1526 Parallelo: Introduction

Below, we can find an introduction to the shotgun, in Beretta’s words:

“Franco Gussalli Beretta

President & CEO of Fabbrica d’Armi Pietro Beretta S.p.A.

A double genesis inspired by fluid elegance

The 1526 Parallelo is a bold expression of innovation and timeless beauty. Inspired by the fluid elegance of the 486 Parallelo by Marc Newson and refined through the technical excellence of the SO10, this unique pair of 12-gauge self-opening side-by-sides blends traditional sidelock mechanism with a design that evokes the movement of water: seamless, reflective, alive.

At the heart of the receiver, the 500-year anniversary logo becomes the source of a series of flowing waves that ripple across the surface before dissolving into a flawless mirror-polished finish, symbolizing five centuries of continuity, evolution and transformation.”

Technical Specifications

When Beretta releases these celebratory pieces, the focus is rarely on their technical specifications. We can tell that we’re looking at 12 Gauge side-by-side shotguns built on the basis of the Beretta 486 with high-grade wood furniture, tailored to guarantee a weight difference within 1 gram between the two samples. This visit to the Beretta Due facility can offer an idea of the effort in manufacturing and finishing pieces such as these.

The elegant and minimalist profile, while seemingly simple, is the result of dedicated engineering effort:

“The development of the 1526 Parallelo demanded a complete re-engineering of Marc Newson’s iconic side-by-side action to accommodate a true sidelock mechanism while preserving its distinctive, streamlined profile and achieving the slimmest possible cross-section. Leveraging state-of-the-art machining technologies, Beretta engineers eliminated the traditional hinge pins and lower plate, creating a seamless round-body receiver and the foundation for an unprecedented design.”

Price and Availability

The pair is a one-off; therefore, any speculation on price and availability is pointless. Unlike other “500 years” pieces, these shotguns are also marked as Beretta USA, so they might be destined to cross the ocean. More details can be found on the dedicated website page.

Those who fell in love with the 1526 Parallelo may check out the 486, which is commercially available. 

What do you, TFB readers, think? Do you prefer elaborate engravings on similar shotguns, or do you find this finish appealing? As usual, let us know in the comments.

Yours truly can say that he greatly prefers the direction that this “industrial designer + famous Italian company” took, compared to others in recent news. 

SIG Sauer P226X and P226-XCARRY ROMEO-X SIG-LOC PRO Key features:

• Factory-installed ROMEO-X SIG-LOC PRO enclosed optic
• SIG-LOC mounting system with ultra-low deck height
• XRAY3 Day/Night sights that co-witness with the optic
• AX2 adjustable DA/SA trigger and low-profile decocker
• Bull barrel with target crown
• Hogue G10 grip panels
• Matte Black DLC stainless steel slide, black anodized alloy frame
• Manual safety
• Three 18-round or 10-round steel magazines

The modern light machine gun sits at an interesting crossroads. For decades, the basic concept has been the same: provide a small infantry unit with a belt-fed weapon capable of delivering sustained fire while remaining mobile enough to maneuver with the riflemen. But the character of modern combat is changing, and so are the requirements. In reality, the requirements haven’t changed, but the materials and manufacturing methods have.

The modern light machine gun is designed around mobility, optics, suppressor compatibility, controllability, reliability, and the ability to function with less maintenance. The challenge is bringing those qualities together without allowing one improvement to undermine another.

Caliber and weight considerations

The newest move is to lightweight machine guns firing small-caliber or full-power rifle cartridges. Likely chambering options are the legacy 5.56x45, new 6.5x43 LICC, or hypervelocity 5.56x45 M8551A+ weapons in roughly the 14-12 pound class for lightweight machine guns. A smaller, hypervelocity cartridge would be a more grounded approach while still allowing the same combat loadout of ammunition without needing more frequent resupply, with heavier options like the 7.62x62 and 6.8x51.

However, weight reduction is not a free improvement. A machine gun must survive harsh operating conditions. A lighter receiver and barrel system may make the weapon easier to carry, but the same reduction in mass can leave less thermal capacity during prolonged firing. Consequently, the future LMG cannot be judged simply by its weight. Its practical mobility must account for ammunition capacity, optics, enablers, durability, and controllability.

Reducing the gun too aggressively can shift the burden elsewhere by increasing maintenance requirements or limiting sustained-fire capability. The objective should therefore be an efficient balance between mobility and endurance rather than an absolute obsession with the lowest possible number on a scale.

A defining characteristic should be a modern suppressor. Suppressors have become increasingly common across infantry weapons, creating a problem for machine guns designed around older assumptions. A weapon that functions well in its unsuppressed configuration but experiences accelerated wear, excessive fouling, or other reliability problems when suppressed is poorly suited to an infantry environment in which suppressors may be widespread.

A principle is sustainable performance rather than peak performance. There is an understandable temptation to make the next machine gun lighter, more powerful, and more technologically sophisticated. But a genuinely successful design needs to remain useful after the novelty wears off. It must tolerate realistic field conditions, remain maintainable, and deliver predictable performance over its service life.

This is particularly important because lightweight designs can amplify the weaknesses already associated with machine guns. Increased recoil, thermal stress, component wear, and ammunition consumption can become more consequential when the platform has been optimized heavily around portability.

Finally, the future LMG should be adaptable. Recent development programs suggest that ammunition technology, optics, and suppressors are evolving simultaneously. Programs such as the Army's Next Generation Squad Weapon effort and other lightweight-machine-gun developments show new experimentation occurring around infantry and special operations weapon systems.

The lesson is not that one particular caliber or design has already solved the problem. Rather, the industry is converging on a set of requirements: greater mobility, ease of maintenance, adequate sustained-fire capability.

The ultimate light machine gun, then, is not necessarily the lightest machine gun or the most powerful one. It is the weapon that best balances mobility, endurance, reliability, suppression compatibility, and sustainment within the realities of small-unit combat.

That balance is difficult. Making a machine gun lighter can reduce its endurance; adding equipment can erase weight savings; and simplifying the weapon can create compromises elsewhere.

The defining machine gun of the future may look less like a radically different weapon and more like a carefully balanced system: light enough to move with the rifle squad, durable enough for sustained employment, useful across changing conditions, and supportable throughout a long campaign.

Features

The future LMG is not the weapon with the most impressive specification sheet. It delivers useful capability without making the soldier pay for it elsewhere. An ideal modern LMG would prioritize reliability, controllability, and sustained-fire capability, and a robust operating system such as gas-operated, rotating bolt.

For recoil management, a constant-recoil concept should be implemented to slow the bolt carrier progressively without hitting the back of the receiver, rather than relying on a conventional buffer. The design would also ideally accommodate suppressor pressures and hot ammunition while maintaining dependable operation and controllability.

Ultimately, the best concept would be an integrated system that is lighter, stronger, and offers increased receiver and barrel life. It would use new materials and coatings to extend part life, integrate recoil mitigation, and optimize for a suppressor. It would be easy to maintain and pose no danger to the gunner if there is a bore obstruction.

With recoil mitigation and new materials, the receiver life should extend to at least 100k rounds, with a barrel service life of at least 50k rounds. If going with the 5.56x45 hypervelocity M855A1+ chambering, it could double the receiver and barrel service life when using standard 5.56x45 M855A1 instead of the spicy hypervelocity ammunition. Note: By service life, I mean when the components gauge out, not when they fall apart. 

Conclusion

The debate over the ideal light machine gun ultimately comes down to balance. A successful design must combine weight with durability, reliable operation with ease of maintenance, and sufficient firepower with practical ergonomics. No single feature can define a superior concept, because improvements in one area often create compromises somewhere else.

The machine gunner’s perspective is particularly useful in this debate because it shifts attention away from specifications alone and toward how a weapon functions as part of a soldier’s overall equipment. For modern LMGs, the most relevant concepts are therefore not necessarily the most technologically elaborate, but those that deliver a practical combination of reliability, portability, adaptability and sustained-fire capability.

As military forces continue to reassess infantry weapons, new materials, manufacturing techniques and ammunition concepts may change the appearance of the next generation of LMGs. Still, the fundamental challenge will remain the same: designing a weapon that provides additional capability without placing an unnecessary burden on the soldier carrying it.

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When U.S. Marines, Japanese soldiers, and Indonesian Marines share a firing line, the only language that matters is muzzle discipline and hits. During Exercise Super Garuda Shield 26 near Lampung, Indonesia, a scout with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin, settles behind a suppressed M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System, bipod dug into the dry grass, while a spotter tracks wind calls through a tripod-mounted spotting scope. The rifle above? It’s a Japanese Heckler & Koch HK G28 E2.

Shooting a suppressed .22 LR rifle or pistol is probably one of the more “peaceful” shooting experiences you can have on the homestead or at the range. Today we're looking at a CCI load built for one job: feeding a suppressed .22 without packing the baffles full of lead. CCI Clean-22 Suppressor then, naturally, uses a black, polymer-coated 45-grain lead round-nose bullet with a 1,000 fps load, and it ships in a 200-round paperboard carton about the size of the half-pint milk cartons you got with your school lunch as a kid.

Clean-22 first appeared at SHOT Show 2019 as a 40-grain line in standard and high-velocity flavors, with CCI claiming the polymer coating cut lead buildup in suppressors by 60 to 80 percent. The Suppressor version followed at my first SHOT Show with TFB in 2020, with a heavier 45-grain bullet, and by June of that year CCI announced it was shipping to dealers in a new easy-to-pour bulk carton. I was recently able to pick up a handful of cartons, and I've been running these cartons through several of my suppressed .22s to see if anything can come close to beating CCI Standard Velocity in terms of overall value.

More Rimfire Report @ TFB:

• The Rimfire Report: Shooting the Peters .22LR That Started It All 
• The Rimfire Report: What's Different About CCI's Golden Boy Ammo? 
• The Rimfire Report: Remington’s Discontinued Standard Target 40gr RN 

Perhaps the most unique thing about this ammo, outside of its dead-even 1,000 FPS advertised velocity, is the packaging that it comes in. Most of my CCI rimfire comes in 100-round plastic sleeves with flip-top dispenser lids, and I like them, but a long range day leaves a small pile of plastic behind. The 200-round milk carton holds twice the ammo in a single paperboard box. You squeeze the marked edges to open the spout, pour what you need, and when it's empty, you're tossing one cardboard box instead of two plastic sleeves. Just like you remember as a kid, the carton also fails to properly open half the time, meaning you’ll have to use your finger or a tool to punch the rest of the sealing paper film away to get to the ammo. This might have the added benefit of actually sealing the ammo better than any other type of factory packaging currently on the market.

In the past, I did appreciate and take advantage of the fact that CCI's sleeves are reusable, but plastic is plastic. For a load meant to be shot by the carton rather than the box, one paperboard package per 200 rounds is the smarter way to ship it. CCI listed Clean-22 Suppressor at $28.99 per 200-round carton when it launched in 2020. As of this writing, CCI's own web store lists it at $39.99, about 38 percent higher, and shows it as currently unavailable. Retailers are friendlier: KyGunCo and Natchez both list it at $31.99, or 16 cents per round, while MidwayUSA has it at $36.99.

First Sips

The first thing you notice when you pour a handful of these out of the carton is the texture. The Remington-made Peters ammo I shot in my last article had a smooth, polished, unlubed bullet that slid into every chamber I own. Clean-22 Suppressor is the opposite. The black polymer coating has a rough, matte finish you can feel with a fingertip. This rough texture is carried across all of CCI’s polymer-coated Clean-22 offerings.

Reliability and Chamber Fit

In my testing thus far, Clean-22 Suppressor runs in most .22s that aren't picky about ammo, and in the guns it does run in, it runs well. I put it through both of Tandemkross' new rifles, the TKX22 Light Rifle and the ADX SBR built on the Manticore X lower, and both cycled it reliably. The ADX SBR was the surprise. Out of its 10.2-inch Comet barrel, it has shot this load more accurately than any of my usual plinking ammo; we’ll get to a full accuracy and reliability test of both these rifles in the coming weeks.

Part of that reliability comes down to the bullet. CCI Standard Velocity pushes a 40-grain bullet at 1,070 fps. Clean-22 Suppressor gives up 70 fps but adds five grains, so it carries about five percent more momentum at nearly the same muzzle energy (100 ft-lbs versus 102). That's enough to run a blowback semi-auto while staying under the speed of sound. From a short pistol barrel or a full-length rifle barrel, this load stays subsonic, and behind a good can that often means a hearing-safe shooting experience.

The Kel-Tec P17 is where things fell apart, at least for me. I will admit that the P17 pistol is picky with ammo to begin with. The pistol seems to either not have enough recoil spring pressure to send the very lightweight slide back home, or the chamber is far too tight to feed this ammo in combination with the light recoil spring. Similarly, chambering a round in the Angstadt Arms Vanquish 22 barrel on my Ruger Precision Rimfire also took noticeably more effort than CCI Standard. The Vanquish uses a Bentz match chamber, which is cut tighter than a typical sporting chamber you’d find on a 10/22, and a textured target-grade bullet isn't what that chamber was designed around.

CCI's claim of up to 60 percent less lead buildup in suppressors covers lead and nothing else. Priming compound, unburned powder, and carbon still end up in your action and baffles no matter what the bullet is coated in, so a name built around cleanliness promises more than a coating can deliver. A truly cleaner 22LR cartridge would probably require an entirely different, more expensive powder as well as a lead-free priming compound to be spun into the case rim. In short, don’t buy this ammo believing that it’ll magically keep your dirty rimfire habit cleaner for a lot longer.

I've come to expect consistent velocities from most CCI ammo, and for a bulk-pack load, that consistency adds some tangible value. The odds of a round going supersonic are never zero, but with these numbers, you're unlikely to see one much above 1,080 fps over several hundred rounds. At that point, Angstadt's ported, integrally suppressed barrel is extra insurance, or a quality-of-life upgrade, and you could get away with a much less expensive setup if your goal is to remain suppressed and subsonic 100% of the time.

For virtually everything else I use rimfire for (fun), this ammo does a great job of being accurate enough, cheap enough, and also quiet enough to make it fun in almost any situation and in any suppressed setup. I would not dare use this ammo for anything where accuracy or terminal performance is the ultimate goal. The ammo is supposed to be clean and quiet, and it certainly meets the quiet criteria, though it doesn’t seem to be all that consistent in the accuracy department. Certainly capable, but not always reliable.

What I don’t like is the coating's rough texture. Guns with tight match chambers or a reputation for being picky, like my P17 and the Bentz-chambered Vanquish barrel, will let you know they don't love it. This also means that an already dirty or rapidly fouling 22LR chamber will also suffer from this problem, usually in the form of the cartridge not seating all the way, leading to light primer strikes. If your suppressed host is that type of gun, buy one carton to test before you commit to a case of this stuff because it's a tad bit more expensive than CCI Standard, which is already subsonic in most guns.

CCI makes three other 45-grain subsonic loads rated for semi-autos. CCI Suppressor is a bare lead hollow point at 970 fps and is sold for $9.99 per sleeve of 50. Suppressor Max uses a segmenting hollow point at 970 fps in 100-round boxes and is aimed at small game; it is currently my favorite 22LR load for pest control. Quiet-22 Semi-Auto runs a soft point at just 835 fps for about 14 cents per round, which makes it more economical but leaves it less margin for cycling stiffer guns and has been one of the less reliable subsonic loads I’ve tried in recent memory. However, none of them is polymer-coated or comes in a 200-round milk carton.

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More Holland & Holland @ TFB:

• The New Holland & Holland Takedown Magazine Rifle
• POTD: Overfinch Holland & Holland – When Gunmaking Meets Luxury SUVs
• POTD: Holland & Holland in Colour
• Holland & Holland NOBLE Over & Under Shotgun
• Beretta Holding Acquires Holland & Holland 

Holland & Holland Beretta Anniversary Commemorative Edition: Introduction

Below, we can find an introduction to the double rifle, in Holland & Holland’s words:

“The heritage of Holland & Holland’s connection to Italian hunting spans well over a century, this coupled with our pinnacle gunmaking offering makes this ‘Royal’ Deluxe Double Rifle the most fitting tribute to Beretta’s 500 year milestone. To further bolster the authenticity of our offering, the rifle will be chambered in our proprietary round, the most iconic calibre on the planet - the .375 H&H.

Hand-built by master craftsman at our revered London factory, the ‘Royal’ Double Rifle is the very pinnacle of excellence and represents the ultimate expression of the genre.”

Price and Availability

Beretta’s celebratory pieces are one-off; however, H&H has an “Enquire” form on their product webpage. So, if you believe that a Holland & Holland “Royal” Double Rifle may be in your budget, maybe this specific version is accessible too.

What do you, TFB readers, think? Do you like this Anglo-Italian cooperation, or do you prefer more traditional English safari rifles? As usual, let us know in the comments.

The slide is the headline feature. It is a single-port integrally compensated design with Agency Arms 5AXIS serrations, finished in Bronze Cerakote over stainless steel. Paired with a 3.8-inch bull barrel with a target crown, the compensated slide helps reduce muzzle movement and keeps the pistol flatter through rapid strings of fire. A fully enclosed ROMEO-X SIG-LOC PRO reflex sight comes factory-installed, giving direct-mount optic integration with the durability expected of a modern P226. XRAY3 Day/Night sights are included for backup.

SIG Sauer P226-X AGENCY Key features:

• Single-port integrally compensated slide with Agency Arms 5AXIS serrations
• Factory-installed ROMEO-X SIG-LOC PRO reflex sight with circle dot
• XRAY3 Day/Night sights
• 3.8 inch bull barrel with target crown
• AX3 fully adjustable single-action trigger
• Agency Arms enhanced alloy frame with scale front-strap checkering
• Custom alloy LOK grip panels with scale texture
• Extended takedown lever and M1913 accessory rail
• Manual safety
• 9mm Luger, sight radius of 5.7 inches, weight of 38.1 ounces with magazine
• Three 20-round steel magazines (three 10-round on the -10 model)

HUXWRX Safety Co. has announced the FLOW 9k PCC, a compact and highly adaptable suppressor for shooters who want serious capability without adding unnecessary length or weight to their platform. The FLOW 9k PCC measures 5.33 inches long and weighs 8.5 ounces. It is built from 14-4 stainless steel and has a diameter of 1.47 inches, a slim profile suited to compact firearm platforms. The caliber list is broad: 9mm, .22 LR, .17 HMR, 5.7, .300 Blackout in both subsonic and supersonic loads, and .350 Legend.

Welcome to TFB Weekly Web Deals 207! We’re back with more deals on guns, gear, ammunition, and accessories from some of our most frequented online retailers like Strike Industries, 5.11 Tactical, Primary Arms, Natchez Shooters Supply, Palmetto State Armory, Brownells, and more. Whether you’re looking for deals on new or used guns, ammo to add to your reserves, or specific accessories like flashlights, range bags, optics, bipods, and magazines, each week we’ll have new sets of deals that might fulfill one of those needs and save you a few dollars.

Hornady Frontier Cartridge 5.56 NATO Ammo 55gr M193 FMJ Box of 50

Sale Price: $24.99

Favored by informal target shooters, law enforcement training academies, and military personnel across the country, Frontier® Cartridge 5.56x45mm NATO 55gr M193 FMJ target ammo offers dependable ignition and consistent performance without breaking the bank. This ammo features clean-burning powders, premium components, and premium Hornady® bullets, loaded in select brass casings for exceptionally smooth and reliable feeding and ejection performance with most semi-auto and bolt-action rifles chambered in 5.56x45mm. Stock up and order today!

Federal American Eagle 9mm Luger Ammo 124gr FMJ 50 Rounds

Sale Price: $13.99

Head to the range for some all-day training sessions or informal target practice with Federal® American Eagle® 9mm Luger pistol ammunition from GunMag Warehouse. Featuring clean-burning powders and premium components, loaded in reloadable brass casings, this affordable pistol ammo offers reliable ignition and consistent accuracy in virtually any environment. Ideal for volume shooters and tactical training. Better yet, each American Eagle round is hand-inspected by qualified quality control specialists for superior consistency and unmatched reliability. Made in USA.

Duramag AR-15 .223, 5.56mm, .300BLK 30-Round Aluminum Magazine

Sale Price: $11.49

Load up for your next range day with the Duramag® AR-15 .223, 5.56mm, .300BLK 30-Round Aluminum Magazine. Featuring durable aluminum construction with a corrosion-resistant finish, this aftermarket magazine boasts superior strength and lasting corrosion resistance in even the harshest environments. The anti-tilt polymer follower and the stainless steel spring ensure smooth and reliable feeding with proper cartridge alignment in high-stress target and defensive environments. Duramag’s Aluminum .223 / 5.56 magazines have become the choice magazine for OEM, Law Enforcement, and Military Units throughout the world. There's no such thing as having too many magazines. Don't hesitate and order one or two new magazines today!

Maglula UpLula 9mm to .45 ACP Universal Pistol Magazine Loader and Unloader

Sale Price: $26.99

Compatible with any single- or double-stack pistol magazine chambered in pistol cartridges from 9mm to .45 ACP, the Maglula® UpLula® 9mm to .45 ACP Universal Pistol Magazine Loader and Unloader makes it comfortable, quick, and easy to reload and unload pistol magazines at the range or in the field. Durable polymer construction offers superior durability, while the convenient slip-on design offers simple, reliable operation and protects magazines and feed lips from damage. Better yet, this combat-tested, universal reloader offers all-weather performance for superior versatility.

Deals at Primary Arms

Primary Arms GLx Mini Reflex Sight – 3 MOA Dot - OPEN BOX

Sale Price: $199.49

Occasionally, we get open box products in-stock. These items may have open packaging or slightly different packaging, which means a discounted price for you! Each listed Open Box product is in very limited supply, so act fast while they are still in stock! Their original warranties still apply.

This mini reflex sight is part of the mid-tier optics line called GLx. GLx brings premium technology and materials into an approachable price range.

Bringing the quality of the GLx optics to mini reflex sights, the RS-15 is the next generation of pistol optic packed full of features. This mini red dot sight features a larger window, 7075 aluminum construction, and fits the popular C-More footprint for out of the box compatibility with a large variety of pistol slides and adapter plates. Side mounted brightness buttons make it easy to use and the top mounted battery compartment allows you to quickly change batteries without having to remove your optic. This model comes with a Red Dot Bright® 3 MOA dot reticle and of course the popular ACSS Vulcan reticle option is available as well.

Geissele Automatics 2-Stage AK-X Trigger

Sale Price: $239.89

The Geissele Automatics 2 Stage AK Trigger was designed to provide shooters with a consistent, clean trigger pull for excellent and repeatable accuracy. Easy to install, this trigger is compatible with AK-47 and AK-74 pattern rifles and pistols and features an orange housing and tool steel trigger face with a corrosion-resistant black finish. This premium AK trigger features a smooth and consistent pull with a crisp wall and clean break, allowing shooters to stay on target more effectively.

Rugged Alaskan360™ Multi-Caliber Suppressor

Sale Price: $679.74

The Alaskan360 Suppressor from Rugged Suppressors is a multi-caliber suppressor that's built tough enough to handle your next expedition. The Alaskan360 was made with the Alaskan climate in mind, so it uses 17-4 stainless steel and U.S. grade 5 titanium to excel in even the toughest conditions. Weighing in at only 11.8 ounces and only 7.5" long with the included mount, you can add this suppressor to a wide range of firearms thanks to the .36 cal bore. Whether you need an effective suppressor for 5.56, 9mm or .308 caliber weapons, the Alaskan360 is designed to tame even the highest pressure rounds and is full auto rated.

Blue Force Gear Limited Edition Vickers Sling - Frog Skin

Sale Price: $54.99

The Blue Force Gear Limited Edition Vickers Sling is a two-point rifle sling that incorporates a patent-pending Quick Adjuster for rapid length changes and repeated, tactile adjustments. It is intended to facilitate swift transitions between comfortable carry and a ready-to-fire position while maintaining secure retention during dynamic weapon handling. This Frog Skin patterned Invista solution-dyed CORDURA sling measures 54 to 64 inches, and the hardware consists of low-profile, glass-reinforced DuPont Zytel nylon with a contrasting pull tab on the Quick Adjuster. The sling attaches directly to fixed-loop mounting systems and accepts optional hardware for alternate attachment methods. The sling is manufactured in the United States.

Magpul ACS Carbine Stock - Mil-Spec - Black

Sale Price: $75.99

The Adaptable Carbine Stock is a drop-in replacement buttstock for AR-15/M4 carbines with MIL-SPEC receiver extensions. Dual, rear accessible, water-resistant battery storage tubes store up to three CR123A lithium or two AA batteries. An integral storage compartment in the butt of the stock offers additional storage. Features an anti-snag release latch to prevent accidental activation along with a friction lock system that minimizes excessive stock movement for enhanced weapon stability and accuracy.

Deals at Palmetto State Armory

Remington Ranch Hand .22LR 40 gr CPRN 100rds

Sale Price: $9.49

Introducing Remington's most reliable .22LR round ever, Rimfire Ride or Die Ranch Hand. Equipped with our cutting-edge rimfire technology, each round delivers premier performance both in your firearm and on target. Whether you're hunting small game or varmints, Ranch Hand ensures flawless feeding, functioning and firing across all common .22LR handguns and rifles. No matter your firearm of choice, trust Ranch Hand to bring exceptional reliability and accuracy to every shot.

Colt .22LR Drop-In Bolt Conversion Kit for AR15 w/ (3) 25-Round Magazines

Sale Price: $149.99

Enhance your .223/5.56mm AR platform rifle with the Colt .22 LR conversion bolt. Transform your reliable Colt rifle into a cost-effective training tool with this convenient drop-in conversion bolt. Designed for compatibility with any mil-spec .223/5.56mm upper receiver, the bolt ensures a seamless, hassle-free conversion.

Beretta 92X Performance Defensive Optics Ready 9mm Pistol, Nistan

Sale Price: $899.99

The new Beretta 92X Performance Defensive has been custom built to take your competition performance to the next level. Specifically designed for those consumers who participate in IDPA (International Defensive Pistol Association) competitions, the 92X Performance Defensive maintains the same ergonomic design and controls as the popular 92X Performance Production platform with new enhanced features such as a lightened steel frame and slide, a red-dot optic ready slide, and aggressively textured 92X-style thin grips for instinctive control.

Glock 17 Gen 6 Austria 4.49" 9mm

Sale Price: $649.99

The Glock 17 Gen 6 features a striker fired action that delivers consistent trigger operation and reliable ignition under demanding use. Its full size polymer frame enhances stability for accurate shot placement while maintaining the familiar handling characteristics Glock shooters expect. The improved optics ready system is a confirmed enhancement over the Gen 5 MOS design and supports a wider range of sighting solutions without modification.

Holosun ARO 2 MOA Red Dot w/ HM3X Magnifier Combo

Sale Price: $249.99

The Holosun ARO (Advanced Rifle Optic) Red Dot Sight is an advancement on the popular Holosun 20mm 403 and 503 series optics. The ARO features an all-new 22mm housing design that mates perfectly with Holosun magnifiers and includes an all-new 1.63" lower 1/3 co-witness pedestal mount. ARO is available as a 2MOA dot only or with the Holosun Multi-Reticle System (MRS) in Red, Green, or Gold.

Deals at 5.11 Tactical

5.11 Norris Sneaker

Sale Price: $29.97

The 5.11® Norris Sneaker is a high-top casual sneaker that combines style, comfort, and tactical intelligence, making it an exceptional choice for those who value both fashion and functionality. This unique footwear is designed to provide optimal traction and durability, particularly on wet surfaces, thanks to its Vibram® Marbrani outsole with XS Trek. The 5.11® Norris also features Ortholite® technology, ensuring your feet are cushioned in total support and comfort throughout the day. The sneaker is ASTM certified for puncture resistance, and its super-strong Welmax board protects your feet against up to 1,200 newtons of force. This shoe is more than just a stylish addition to your wardrobe; it's a reliable and functional choice for any situation. The climbing grade rubber toe protection and Ortholite® upper cuff offer additional comfort, heel hold, and protection, making the 5.11® Norris Sneaker a top choice for anyone in need of versatile, durable footwear. Imported and built to last, the Norris Sneaker is the perfect blend of style, comfort, and tactical intelligence.

Sock & Awe Woodland

Sale Price: $10.49

Tactical support where you need it most, but think about it least, this sock could save your day. Your feet will thank you.

Printed graphic

Cushioned toe and heel

Arch band for stabilization and comfort

Air vent channels for breathability

69% polyester/ 31% elastane

RUSH® MOAB™ 8 Sling Pack 13L

Sale Price: $69.49

Ambidextrous sling shoulder strap system with MOLLE

Tactec™ CCW compartment with breakaway hook-and-loop access

External MOLLE on front, sides, and strap for modular attachments

Rear hydration pocket with pass-through port

Large front pocket with internal admin organization

Main compartment with internal storage pockets

Fleece-lined eyewear pocket for scratch-free protection

The MOAB™ is built for the calls that keep you mobile. The sling flips sides and adjusts on the move. Breakaway CCW access gets you in fast. MOLLE on the strap, front, and sides lets you dial in your loadout. Interior layout keeps tools and essentials tight. It's as close to being adaptable as you are.

Allhaula™ Backpack 30L

Sale Price: $99.49

From weekday grind to off-grid chaos, the Allhaula 30L stays in the fight. Day pack. Go-bag. Ride-or-die hauler. Toss it. Drag it. Beat it down. Doesn't matter how hard you run it. When you push past the limits, it hauls through 'em.

30L capacity is big enough for a day’s worth of gear, compact enough to stay agile

Zippered main compartment fits a laptop or hydration setup

Fleece-lined valuables pocket protects your phone, shades, or essentials

Interior organization pockets keep cables, tools, and gear squared away

Water-resistant, easy-to-clean fabric is tough against spills, dirt, and grime

Ballistic nylon bottom panel is reinforced to take a beating where it counts

Laser-cut MOLLE panels for modular loadouts across shoulder straps, front, and side

Skyweight hip belt compatible makes it add-on ready for heavy hauls (belt not included)

36" Single Rifle Case 28L

Sale Price: $59.49

Your new go-to rifle case comes with all the right stuff for a trip to the range or out on exercises. Fully padded with external MOLLE webbing and Gear Set™ compatibility so you can Always Be Ready with extra mags or attachments. On the inside, you have removeable rifle retention straps as well as padded butt stock and muzzle sleeves to protect your firearm. Provides excellent carry-ability with a comfortable padded handle and removable shoulder strap. Whether you're planning a day of sport shooting or an overseas mission, this case has your six. Imported.

Engage Full Zip Sweatshirt 2.0

Sale Price: $29.97

Tackle the day ahead in our Engage Fleece Full Zip 2.0. This hoodie-style jacket will serve you for years thanks to a tough, yet soft, 60-percent cotton and 40-percent polyester fleece blend. The ribbed cotton-elastane sleeve cuffs and waist help retain body heat and keep the jacket in place while you move throughout the day. A two-way zipper in the front provides easy on and off while the hood cinches down for blustery conditions. Pockets are kangaroo style with double entry and zippered outer layer.

Ammo Deals at TrueShot Ammo

Maxxtech - NFR - 7.62x39 - 123 Grain - FMJ - Steel Case

Sale Price: $36.45 ($0.73/per)

Maxxtech is a renowned company in the ammunition industry, known for its commitment to quality, precision, and reliability. The company's flagship product, the Maxxtech - NFR - 7.62x39 - 123 Grain - FMJ, is a testament to this commitment. This ammunition is designed for superior performance, offering consistent accuracy and power. The 7.62x39mm caliber is a popular choice among shooting enthusiasts and professionals alike, and Maxxtech's 123 Grain - FMJ rounds are engineered to meet the highest standards of this demanding market. The Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) design ensures less barrel fouling and improved accuracy, making it an ideal choice for both target practice and competitive shooting. Maxxtech's dedication to innovation and quality control has earned it a strong reputation in the industry. The company continues to push the boundaries of ammunition technology, striving to provide the best shooting experience for its customers.

Maxxtech - 45 ACP - 230 Grain - FMJ

Sale Price: $20.99 ($0.42/per)

The Maxxtech - 45 ACP - 230 Grain - FMJ ammunition is designed to deliver optimal performance and reliability. It features a full metal jacket (FMJ) bullet, ensuring smooth feeding and reduced fouling in the barrel. The 230-grain weight provides excellent stopping power, making it suitable for self-defense and target shooting.

Maxxtech - Steel Series NFR - 7.62x39 - 123 Grain - FMJ - Steel Case

Sale Price: $14.99 ($0.75/per)

MaxxTech 7.62x39mm 123 Grain Full Metal Jacket ammo is a solid choice for shooters looking for dependable range ammunition at a great value. Built with a 123 grain FMJ bullet, this 7.62x39 ammo is ideal for target shooting, training, and range days with popular AK-pattern rifles and other firearms chambered in 7.62x39mm.

This MaxxTech 7.62x39mm ammunition is made in Bosnia and Herzegovina and features a polymer-coated steel case. Steel cased ammo is a popular option for high-volume shooters because it helps keep costs down while still delivering practical performance for everyday range use. Each round is non-corrosive and boxer primed, making it a clean, convenient option for shooters who want reliable 7.62x39 range ammo without overcomplicating things.

Good afternoon, everyone, and welcome back to TFB’s Silencer Saturday, brought to you by Yankee Hill Machine, manufacturer of the new Victra 20-gauge shotgun suppressor. Precision rifle competition is one of the most popular shooting games these days, and a recent match in Utah may have been the first of its kind. The Silent But Deadly match was a PRS-style competition for suppressed centerfire rifles firing subsonic ammunition.

 

Silencer Saturday @ TFB:

• Silencer Saturday #451: Return of the LVAW 
• Silencer Saturday #450: 4473 vs. Form 4 Transfers
• Silencer Saturday #449: A One-Of-A-Kind Ruger American 
• Silencer Saturday #448: Liberty Suppressors Infiniti X First Look
• Silencer Saturday #447: Thunder Beast Silencer Summit 2026 

It seems like everyone is shooting precision rifle competitions these days. PRS really started the party, and that energy spread to related formats like NRL Hunter and gas gun matches. Each has its own take on the concept, but all share the core idea of engaging steel targets at extended ranges from suboptimal shooting positions.

The Silent But Deadly match takes that same idea and focuses it on suppressed firearms. The rules are simple: rifles must be centerfire, equipped with a silencer, and have an average muzzle velocity below 1175 FPS. Those low velocities and compromised ballistic trajectories result in a match that is sort of like an NRL22 rimfire match as far as the shot distances.

The inaugural Silent But Deadly match was held at the Garth Kilpack shooting range in Springville, Utah. You can view the match rules and results at this Impact Scoring link. Jim Cannon, owner of Next Shot Precision (and @22lrmarksmen on Instagram) hosted the match. Here are a few pictures stolen from his social media showing some stages:

I was not able to make it to this match, but Collin (who some of you may remember from his “Collin’s Creations” bits in this column) and my brother Barrett both were able to shoot in the match. They both also compete in SPARC matches as well as NRL22 and are familiar with this general style of competition shooting. They each used guns chambered in 300 Blackout. Colin shot a straight-pull built on an AR-15 action. He cobbled this together in the effort to make a quiet, dedicated host gun. Barrett shot a Brownell's BRN 180. Neither of these seems like a true race gun built for competition, but they had startlingly different results with each.

You see, Collin, who often places in the top 10 or so in precision gas gun matches, ended up in the middle of the pack. Barrett, who usually places a few positions behind Collin, was in the top 5. Both were shooting 300 Blackouts with roughly equivalent optics and barrel lengths. What was the difference? Ammunition. Barrett shot handloaded subsonic ammo with a 220-grain Sierra MatchKing bullet. Collin was shooting factory. They both noticed, across shooters, that those who were shooting handloaded ammunition tended to dramatically outperform shooters with factory-loaded ammo.

Another observation was the lack of correlation between the price of a gun and where it was placed.

There were also shooters with rather expensive custom setups that were outperformed by much more modest equipment. Much of this, again, tied back to the ammunition selection and whether or not someone had access to handloads. Even if you have a very nice rifle, that is not going to be enough to make up for poor-quality ammunition.

The match winner shot an 8.6 Blackout. This was a custom rifle built around that cartridge. I have no details or information about the load or the rifle, but I would hazard a guess that ammunition quality and retained momentum from the larger, heavier 8.6mm bullet played a part in this finish. Two of the top five shooters at the match were shooting Ruger American rifles. Those do have a reputation for accuracy generally but are often thought of as accurate among the budget tier of rifles. Two in the top five suggests that they are more accurate options when compared across all rifles, not just the affordable ones.

One of the great things about competition is how it quickly highlights what works and what doesn’t. The 25-pound 6mm Dasher became the meta in PRS after many shooters tried a lot of different options. Subsonic PRS is a new game, and the competitors are still figuring out what wins matches. A major takeaway is that the standards of accuracy are much lower than in other games. Some of the targets used included a 4-inch plate at 75 yards and an 8-inch target at 127 yards. If those dimensions sound generous, that is because they are. Subs at extended ranges need the help! You can watch an example stage here.

Another observation they made was that longer barrels and higher velocities were an advantage. There is a significant difference between 800 FPS and 1,100 FPS. Both are subsonic, but that difference is over a 25% pickup. They also observed that the longer barrels tended to be more consistent.

Another match is planned for November. Signups are live now on Impact Scoring. If you want to see how your setup stacks up and be part of developing the meta for this kind of competition, you should check it out. And the prize table included a lot of silencers last time!

SILENCER SHOP –    HANSOHN BROTHERS –    DEADEYE GUNS

MAC TACTICAL

ALL YHM PRODUCTS AT BROWNELLS

DEALERS: If you want your link to buy YHM suppressors included in future Silencer Saturday posts, email:   silencers@thefirearmblog.com

There is a growing roar for Smith & Wesson to bring back the 3rd generation of metal-framed pistols, with a particular interest in the classic 5906 series. The classic non-railed versions were discontinued back in 1999, with the railed versions discontinued back in 2004. So after 20 years, why are people constantly yelling at the Smith & Wesson marketing team online to bring back the classic metal-framed line of handguns? Are we remembering them with rose colored glasses when they were a disaster? Let's take a closer look at why people love the Smith & Wesson 5906 handguns.

Classic Styling

What we have to remember is that the 3rd generation of handguns from Smith & Wesson were from the Model 39 all the way back in the 1950s with a single-stack magazine. While I’d love to do a deeper dive into the Model 39 and then 59, this article will spiral out of control in length, so I'll stick to the surface-level history for your time's sake. While some incredible versions and historically significant handguns were developed on the Model 39 and 59, it was really building toward one of the most significant shifts for police departments in the late 1980s and especially in the 1990s. These handguns were full metal construction, making them incredibly durable under heavy abuse and giving them a unique classic look with the stainless finish and black polymer grips. It was one of the more aesthetically beautiful pistols to most people, just like the Beretta 92 was and it became an action movie staple.

Whether it was the squared or round trigger variant, the 5906 had the classic DA/SA look that was truly different from other options out there. Combining its looks with the overwhelming success with large police agencies like the New York Police Department, Los Angeles Police Department and Chicago Police Department, this handgun served as a stepping stone between the classic revolver era of police forces and the more modern polymer-framed Glocks or Smith & Wesson M&P line of handguns that dominate today. The 5906 and other variants were the natural progression to more modern striker-fired handguns and defined a generation of law enforcement officers and shooters transitioning from older-style revolvers to the wonder 9s that eventually became the polymer pistols so common today.

Culture in the 90s

Like many things that become a generational icon, the 3rd generation of Smith & Wesson pistols were no exception, with a number of classic movies and TV Shows putting them front and center as a charismatic handgun for main characters. Whether it was Vic Mackie in The Shield, Denzel Washington in Training Day or even the cast of Reservoir Dogs all using them and even the Miami Vice crew rocking the iconic stainless finish with black grips, the gun was a staple in the 1990s. The reason I personally wanted a 3rd generation Smith & Wesson was Danny Glover's character in Lethal Weapon 3, where he carries a classic Smith Model 19 he had since the first movie, but also carried a square trigger guard 5906, which I thought was truly action hero energy.

When I saw a perfect square trigger 5906, I had to pick it up and that was my first experience with them! I also snagged a round trigger guard 5946, which is a double-action-only configuration with no decocker or manual safety. There were multiple variants with a decocker only, DA/SA safety decocker and double action only. There were also black variants or stainless steel, depending on the model. If you're curious about the number designation, there are countless articles online I would highly recommend if you want to check them out and learn what numbers equal what model. When it comes to movie presence, though, there was an overwhelming amount of stainless guns on the silver screen, with very few being the regular black variants.

Why People Want It Now

People say if you wait long enough, almost anything can become collectable and these guns are experiencing a resurgence unlike anything else we've seen in recent memory in the gun community. Other iconic firearms like the Colt 1911 or Beretta 92 FS have been made constantly, as well as received new versions that improve on the original concept. The 3rd generation Smith & Wessons have been out of production for 22 years now and the only ones that are available are second-hand or police trade-ins.

While you can certainly find a police trade-in, these iconic handguns are sometimes difficult to find in good condition because people just loved them and shot them heavily in most cases. You can certainly still find quality police trade-in models. My 5946 was a police trade-in, most likely from New York City, which adds to the overall cool level of this pistol to me. You can still find 5906s for $300-400 at the time of this article at places like Aim Surplus and other surplus dealers, with nice examples going for around $550-600 with the resurgence of popularity. Besides the scarcity of good examples, the iconic films and culture from the 1990s are certainly a draw for new shooters. The factory guns were far from perfect, with heavy triggers and some were known to be finicky with certain ammo, but the vast majority of models were known to be bulletproof tanks.

If you have wanted one of these handguns, it's important to grab one sooner rather than later since prices have steadily increased over the last 4-5 years with no end to the increase in the near future. Let me know if you have one of these handguns and what you think about them in the comments below. If you have questions about the 5906 or firearms in general, feel free to shoot me a message on Instagram @fridgeoperator. Stay safe out there and we will see you in the next one.

If there was a rifle caliber with an effective range far beyond the distances most hunters shoot at, and with a proven record of killing almost every big game animal reliably, and with low-enough recoil that even kids could fire it without difficulty, you’d think it would be super-popular. That’s the description behind the .243 Winchester, though, and it’s surprising to see that 71 years after its commercial release, the caliber is still a hard sell to many hunters, even as new cartridges are released that offer no real-world usage improvements on this classic deer-busting round.

Gear up for deer season @ TFB:

• Fudd Friday: Wood-And-Steel Semi-Autos For Deer Season 
• New 110 Magpul Hunter Announced by Savage Arms 
• Fudd Friday: What Shotgun Gauge For What Hunting Season? 
• TFB Review: Boyd's At-One Adjustable Gun Stock for the Remington 870 

From an enthusiast’s special to the mainstream

Like so many hunting calibers of the 20th century, particularly in the sub-30 caliber segment, the .243 Winchester is a descendant of wildcatter experimentation. As early as the 1940s, Warren Page was experimenting with .243-caliber rounds, and when the Winchester .308 was released in the early 1950s, he necked down the case, jammed a quarter-bore bullet in there, and wrote it up in magazine articles. Winchester realized the benefit of a small-bore bullet that used the same parent case as the .308, and the .243 Winchester was released commercially in 1955.

It was the same classic storyline that saw the .270 develop from the .30-06. Once the military settles on a caliber (as they did with 7.62x51 in the 1950s, aka .308 Winchester), then the civilian sector starts to see what else they can do with that cartridge case.

With the .243 Winchester, manufacturers generally released two different loads: something with a light bullet, around 80 grains in weight, intended for varmints; and something heavier, around 100 grains in weight, intended for deer. “Small deer,” as so many fudds will chorus, believing that anything less than a 150-grain .30-caliber bullet is marginal on whitetails.

But from the 1950s up until today, real-world .243 users consistently prove the naysayers wrong. I’ve never taken a .243 hunting myself, but I know several people who have. My neighbor shot the biggest buck taken in this community last year with a .243. It’s been his gun of choice for years now, and he has taken a few other deer at 200-plus pounds. Only one required a second shot to speed up the killing process. Another friend, a lumberjack with a lifetime of deer hunting success, told me about one of his longest-ever kills: A 403-yard shot on a whitetail that he fired three times at, with a Winchester Model 88 lever-action.

“I was glad I finally hit him on the third shot,” he said, “because I only had one more shell with me.”

Most hunters wouldn’t use a .243 out to 400 yards, but when you’re a blue-collar, working-in-the-woods kind of guy, you take the shots that you can get. If you believe in the generally accepted theory that you need 1,000 foot-pounds of energy to reliably down a deer, then you won’t shoot a 100-grain load much past 300 yards. Winchester says its Power Point loads carry 1.098 pound-feet of energy at that distance, and at 400 yards, that drops to 882 foot-pounds.

But at least half of deer killed by hunters are shot at 100 yards or less. From the stats I’ve seen, those numbers drop off drastically as you push past 200 yards. It is true that in some areas, particularly the western states and provinces, or up north on the tundra, the average shot is at longer distances—but from what I’ve seen, those are the places that tend to appreciate the .243 more anyway. Shooters who don’t have hundreds of dollars and hours for range practice are happy to grab a trusty rifle with minimal kick and a point-blank range of 300 yards; they know that if they put the crosshairs on a deer’s vitals, that deer will go down.

Or maybe they are shooting at something bigger than a deer? The French-Canadian moose guide that I used to work with had a kid along one fall, hunting in Quebec, toting a .243. He said that .243 dropped a moose with the same authority as a bigger rifle, and if you look at stories from real-world Alaskan hunters, you’ll find plenty of similar tales. I don’t live near elk country, so I can’t comment on the round’s usefulness there, but I do know that they’re supposed to be a lot harder to kill than a moose, so I might take something heavier for those animals. But I also know that people do use .243 on elk and are successful, as long as they’re careful about shot placement.

And this is what it all comes down to—shot placement. The reality is that many, many large animals have been killed by small bullets, as long as those small bullets are well-constructed and hold together as they smash through the animal’s vital zone.

Part of the .243’s bad reputation with naysayers is due to hunters using varmint bullets that weren’t up to the task of big game hunting, shattering instead of penetrating.

On the other hand, part of the .243’s good reputation with its fan base is because of the low recoil (less than even a .30-30, typically). That low recoil allows almost anyone to shoot accurately, punching through lungs and heart on a broadside shot instead of a flinched shot putting the slug through the animal’s guts, or missing entirely.

You do you; if you think the .243 isn’t up to your hunting needs, feel free to continue using whatever round you think is better. But if all I had for hunting the moose, deer and bears here in the northeast was a .243, I wouldn’t think it was a problem at all.

The scope records video and still images directly through the optic, and recoil-activated recording starts automatically at the shot so the user does not have to hit record (easily forgotten in the heat of the action). 64GB of internal memory stores the footage. Integrated Wi-Fi works with the Trijicon App to download photos and videos to a smartphone or tablet. The app's Live View feature streams the scope's image to a connected device in real time, so a second person can see exactly what the shooter sees.

From Trijicon’s own marketing material (Facebook video), I pulled this image of the thermal image quality.

Trijicon moves from 640x480 to 1024x768, a move many in the business did about two years ago. Does sensor resolution drive your thermal buying decision more than anything else? How much does American manufacturing matter to you when choosing a thermal optic? Thermals are a special interest, but let us know what’s on your mind in the comments.

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If this post has you ready to hit the range, head over to gunranges.com - a free directory to help you find shooting ranges near you, wherever you are in the United States.

LTT CEO Ernest Langdon says the ATD caught the team's attention because Steyr approached the DA/SA platform with a fresh perspective instead of simply updating an existing pistol. It gives LTT the chance to apply decades of experience with these systems to a platform built for where shooters are today.

My only “experience” with the ATD is a friend who I trust a lot in this matter, and he said that the original ATD was really accurate and nice to shoot. Steyr guarantees that all ATD pistols will shoot a 50mm (1.97”) or smaller center-to-center group at 25m when fired from a machine rest.

HUXWRX Safety Co. has launched the FLOW 9 M, a lightweight modular suppressor designed to adapt across a range of compatible firearm platforms. It is built around short and long configurations, so shooters can prioritize compact handling or a full-length setup depending on the platform and the application.

The FLOW 9 M uses HUXWRX FLOW-Through Technology, designed to direct propellant gases forward. The aim is reduced back pressure and toxic gas exposure while supporting consistent firearm operation.

The FLOW 9 M is available already at an MSRP of $849. More information is available at https://huxwrx.com/flow-9-m/. 

HUXWRX FLOW 9 M Key features:

• Material: Grade 23 titanium
• Length: 6.3 inches short, 8.6 inches long
• Diameter: 1.375 inches
• Weight: 6.3 ounces short, 8.5 ounces long
• Weight with booster: 8.3 ounces short, 10.5 ounces long
• Length added to barrel with booster: 6.1 inches short, 8.3 inches long
• Calibers: 9mm, .22 LR, .17 HMR, 5.7, .300 BLK subsonic and supersonic, .350 Legend
• Included mount: 1/2x28 booster assembly
• Additional mounts: 3-lug, stiction and direct-thread adapters
• Finish: C-Series Cerakote in Matte Black, Flat Dark Earth available
• Maintenance: detailed cleaning recommended every 1,000 rounds

There’s also a video with a lot of suppressed shooting:

The sales pitch says technology is a force multiplier. The street says a tool only multiplies force if an officer can actually use it on the call where it matters, with the training time and staffing you actually have. Those are not the same claim. Most agencies buy the first one and get the second one, and nobody writes that part down.

This piece is not a product roundup of specific drone models or plate reader vendors. It is not a privacy-law explainer, and it is not an argument for or against surveillance policy. It is an operational read on three technologies entering patrol work right now, where each one actually helps, where it fails, and who it fits. The question is capability, not catalog specs.

Front Line Friday @ TFB:

• Off-Duty Carry Considerations
• After-Action Reviews Officers Will Actually Use
• Female Officer Gear and Fit: The Systemic Gap
• De-escalation Training That Actually Transfers
• In-Car First Aid and Trauma Kit Configuration

The Procurement Theater Problem

Start with the failure mode, because it explains almost everything that goes wrong with tech on patrol. The failure mode is buying the asset and not buying the program. A drone can be a $12,000 line item. A drone program is a recurring cost in training hours, battery replacement, software licensing, data storage, FAA compliance, and at least one person whose job it partly becomes to keep the thing airworthy and current. Agencies routinely fund the first and starve the second.

This is not a story about lazy administrators. It is a story about structural incentives. A capital purchase is visible; it photographs well for the city council, and it draws down a grant before the grant expires. The recurring program cost is invisible; it competes with overtime and vehicles in the general fund, and it never gets a ribbon-cutting. So the incentive structure rewards buying hardware and punishes sustaining it. The predictable result is a closet full of technology that works for about six months and then quietly stops being current.

I have watched this cycle run its course more than once. The grant pays for the equipment and an initial training block. Year two, the certified operators transfer, promote, or leave. Year three, the batteries have aged out and the software subscription lapsed because nobody budgeted the renewal. The equipment is technically owned by the agency and operationally owned by nobody. That is not a capability. That is a depreciating asset that files its own incident reports to the storage room.

The useful question at the point of purchase is not "can we afford this." It is "can we afford this every year for ten years, including the labor to keep people current." If the honest answer is no, the capability does not exist regardless of what sits in the case. The operational consequence is that an officer reaches for a tool mid-call and finds a dead battery and a lapsed certification, which is worse than never having bought it, because now the plan assumed it would work.

Drones: Real Capability, Real Overhead

Small uncrewed aircraft are the clearest case of genuine capability gain in recent patrol technology, and also the clearest case of hidden overhead. Used well, a drone gives you an overhead view of a scene in under two minutes that would otherwise require a helicopter you do not have or a foot search you cannot staff. On a barricaded subject, a missing elderly person in rough terrain, or a building search before entry, that view changes decisions and can keep people out of harm's way. That part is not hype.

Here is where it fails. A drone is only as fast as the certified pilot who can legally fly it, and certification is not a one-time event. Under current FAA rules, agency operators generally fly under a Certificate of Authorization or a Part 107 remote pilot certificate, and Part 107 requires a recurrent knowledge check every 24 months. The short version: the license is not a wall decoration, it is a sustainment cost with a clock on it. Night operations and flights over people carry their own additional requirements. If your pilot pool is three people and two of them work days, your 0300 barricade does not have a drone no matter what the policy binder says.

The second failure mode is the gap between what the rating tests and what the mission demands. A Part 107 certificate tests airspace knowledge, weather, and regulations. It does not test flying a thermal camera through a treeline in wind at night looking for a hypothermic subject. Those are different skills, and the second one decays fast without reps. An agency that counts current certificates and assumes current capability is measuring the wrong thing. The operational consequence is a pilot who is legal to fly and not actually good at the one flight that matters, discovered in real time on the worst possible call.

Who does a drone fit? Agencies with enough call volume and enough staffing to keep a real pilot rotation current, and a clear doctrine for what the drone is for. The Drone as First Responder model, where an aircraft launches from a fixed site to a call ahead of officers, is a genuine capability for dense jurisdictions with the infrastructure to support it. For a rural agency with six deputies covering 800 square miles, a single pilot and one aircraft can still be worth it for searches, but only if someone owns the sustainment honestly. The aircraft is the cheap part. The current, competent pilot is the expensive part, and the expensive part is the actual capability.

Now the failure mode, and it is a serious one. An LPR hit is a lead, not a fact. The documented error cases are not rare edge cases: misreads of a character, a plate that was stolen or reassigned, a hot-list entry that was never cleared after the vehicle was recovered. There have been real incidents where officers conducted high-risk stops on innocent drivers, including children and families at gunpoint, because the system alerted and the humans treated the alert as confirmed truth instead of as a reason to verify. The technology did not fail there. The procedure around it failed, because the alert was trusted past what it actually establishes.

The distinction that has to be trained into muscle memory: the reader tells you to look, it does not tell you what you found. Before you act on an LPR alert, the plate gets confirmed visually, the hot-list entry gets confirmed as still active, and the stop gets built on the officer's own verified observation. That is not bureaucratic drag. It is the single step that separates a good stolen-vehicle recovery from a civil suit and a family's worst night. The operational consequence of skipping it is that your agency inherits the system's error as your use of force.

Who does an LPR fit? Nearly any agency can get value from it on auto theft and wanted-vehicle work, because that is squarely what it does. The question is not whether to use it but whether your policy and your field training force verification before action, every time, without exception for the hit that looks obvious. The agencies that get burned are the ones that bought the camera and never built the procedure. Technology plus no procedure is not capability. It is liability with a subscription fee. 

Body Cameras and the Documentation Dividend

Body-worn cameras are old news as technology and still misunderstood as a system. The common framing treats the camera as a surveillance tool pointed at the officer. The more useful framing, and the one I hold, is that thorough documentation is a tool of officer protection and genuine accountability at the same time. Those are not in tension. The same footage that clears a good officer convicts a bad one, and both outcomes serve the public and the profession.

The failure mode here is not the camera. It is the data pipeline behind it. A body camera program generates enormous volumes of footage that must be tagged, categorized, retained on schedule, and produced on request. The recurring cost is storage and the labor to manage it, and that cost scales with every camera you add and every retention requirement in your policy. Agencies that bought cameras on a grant and never funded the storage and the records staff end up with footage they cannot find, cannot produce in time, or delete by accident. The camera captured the truth. The system lost it. That is worse than no footage, because now the gap looks like concealment.

There is a second, quieter failure: activation discipline. A camera that is not recording during the thirty seconds that matter protects nobody. Reliable activation is a training and habit problem, not a hardware problem, and it degrades under exactly the stress where the footage matters most. The fix is not a better camera. It is drilling activation until it happens without conscious thought, the same way you drill a draw. The operational consequence of weak activation discipline is that your best protection against a false complaint is dark during the one call where you needed it.

Who does a body camera program fit? Every agency that can fund the back end, which is most of them if they count the real cost up front. The mistake is treating the camera as the purchase. The purchase is a records system with a camera attached to it. Buy it that way and it is a genuine asset. Buy it as hardware and it becomes a liability generator the first time a defense attorney asks for footage you cannot locate.

Fatigue is a physiological safety issue, not a character issue, and the research on it is blunt. Sustained wakefulness degrades performance the same way alcohol does. After roughly 17 hours awake, cognitive and reaction performance is comparable to a blood alcohol concentration of about 0.05 percent. Push to around 24 hours awake and the degradation is comparable to roughly 0.10 percent, which is over the legal driving limit in every state. The short version: the back half of a double shift leaves an officer impaired by a standard we would arrest a driver for. That officer is now being handed a system that says "this plate is stolen, go."

Put those two facts together. An impaired-by-fatigue officer plus an automated alert that invites compliance is a predictable path to the error cases I described earlier. The technology did not create the fatigue, but it changes what the fatigue costs, because it offers a confident-looking answer at the exact moment the officer has the least capacity to question it. This is automation bias meeting shift work, and it is structural, not personal. The operational consequence is that your newest capability is most dangerous on your most understaffed, most over-worked shift, which is also the shift where you deployed it to cover the gap.

The fix is not to ban the tools. It is to design the verification step so it survives a tired brain, which means making it a hard procedural stop rather than a judgment call. A judgment call fails under fatigue. A checklist item that cannot be skipped fails less. That principle, build the safeguard into the process so it does not depend on the officer being sharp, is the whole game with patrol technology.

The Standardization Dividend Nobody Budgets For

One more structural point, because it decides whether any of this scales. Every new tool adds cognitive load, and cognitive load compounds across a shift. Three drone platforms, two camera systems from two grant cycles, and an LPR interface that updates its menus quarterly is not a technology program. It is a pile of unrelated interfaces an officer has to context-switch between under stress, and context-switching under stress is where mistakes live.

Standardization is a force multiplier precisely because it reduces that load. One camera platform fleet-wide, one drone type, one LPR interface, means a transferred officer is current on day one and a mutual-aid partner can pick up your controller without a tutorial. The cost of standardization is giving up the ability to chase the best-of-breed product in every category. The payoff is that officers can actually use what you bought. For a capability that lives or dies on whether a stressed human can operate it correctly, that trade is almost always worth it.

This matters most in the career-long view. An officer who learns one standardized tool set builds deep competence across years instead of relearning interfaces every grant cycle. The agency that chases novelty resets its people to novice every few years and calls the churn "modernization." The decision to standardize early compounds the same way a good training habit compounds: quietly, across a whole career, into capability you cannot buy with a single purchase order.

EMS has its own automation-bias problem in the cardiac monitor that suggests a rhythm interpretation. A fatigued medic on the back half of a 24-hour shift leaning on the machine's read instead of confirming it is the same trust trap, with a patient instead of a plate. And fire and EMS run even longer shifts than most patrol, so the fatigue math is worse, not better. The lesson transfers cleanly: fund the sustainment, drill the verification until it survives exhaustion, and standardize the interface so a tired provider is not fighting the tool and the emergency at once.

Bottom Line / What to Do Monday

• Individual officer this week: Pick the newest tech tool on your car or belt and make yourself prove you can operate it cold, under time pressure, without reading a menu. If you cannot, you do not have that capability yet, you have an object. Fix it before the call that needs it.
• Individual officer this week: Treat every LPR hit as a lead until you personally confirm the plate and that the hot-list entry is still active. Make the verification step a hard habit now, while it is quiet, not a decision you make for the first time at 0300 while tired.
• FTOs and supervisors: Measure current competence, not current certificates. A drone pilot with a valid Part 107 who has not flown a real search in three months is not a search capability. Build recurring reps into the schedule and track them like you track qualification.
• FTOs and supervisors: Drill camera activation until it is automatic. The footage that protects your officer is worthless if the camera was dark during the thirty seconds that mattered, and activation is the first thing fatigue kills.
• Agencies and procurement: Never approve a tech purchase without a ten-year sustainment line next to it covering training hours, software renewal, storage, battery replacement, and the labor to keep people current. If the recurring cost is not funded, the capability is not real, and say so out loud in the meeting.
• Agencies and procurement: Standardize on one platform per category fleet-wide even if it means passing on a better-spec option. The reduction in cognitive load and training burden across the whole department outweighs the spec advantage of a mixed fleet almost every time.
• Fire/EMS note: The same rules apply to your drones, thermal cameras, and monitor interpretations. Fund the sustainment, drill the confirmation step, and remember your shifts are longer, so the fatigue-plus-automation trap hits you harder, not softer.

As the introduction of the SIG M250 potentially opens a new chapter in the U.S. Army's squad automatic weapon story, or more accurately, the GPMG role, it is worth looking back at the excitement around the M249 when it was adopted. The U.S. Army type-classified the M249 on February 1, 1982, filling a long-standing gap in U.S. squad-level firepower.

That gap had existed for decades. The issue was first addressed near the end of the First World War, when the Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR) was unveiled and remained in frontline service through World War II and the Korean War. Combat in Korea demonstrated that one automatic rifle per squad was insufficient to provide the necessary suppressive fire, leading the Army to issue two M1918 BARs to some infantry squads.

The problem became particularly apparent during the Vietnam War. U.S. infantry lacked a dedicated automatic rifle or light machine gun capable of sustained suppressive fire. The M14E2/M14A1 was introduced as an interim solution, but it never fully met the requirement, particularly as the M16 became the Army's standard rifle. The M60 was there, but not in enough numbers for every squad. Experiments with the M60 general-purpose machine gun at squad level also proved unsatisfactory. At about 23 pounds unloaded, the M60 imposed too great a burden on squad maneuverability and would reduce the amount of ammunition the gunner could carry. We are revisiting this today with the M250, as ammunition was dispersed throughout the squad to carry enough to support operations.

The Army's Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) program therefore turned toward a lighter weapon. Beginning in the early 1970s, researchers examined different calibers, including the 6mm SAW program based on the steel-cased 6x45mm and other configurations. By October 1976, the 5.56mm SAW program had become the focus, and the 6mm SAW program dropped.

The requirement called for a one-man-portable, lightweight machine gun capable of delivering effective suppressive fire to 1,000 meters. Four candidate weapons entered the competition. They included the XM106, essentially a modified M16 with an open-bolt action and heavy quick-change barrel, the XM248, a belt-fed 5.56mm design with rotary drive and a dual gas system, the H&K XM262, using a roller-locked, delayed-blowback action, and the XM249, developed by Fabrique Nationale of Belgium.

The XM249 was derived from FN's Minimi, first unveiled in 1974. Its selection reflected a deliberate decision to adopt a lightweight weapon based on the 5.56mm cartridge. The Army's type-classification action also included new ammunition components, including the M855 ball cartridge using the Belgian SS109 projectile and the M856 tracer cartridge.

The trials used to select the M249 were extensive, as they should be. All four weapons underwent visual and dimensional examinations, parts-interchangeability testing, firing tests, environmental trials, and endurance testing. We tested the weapons with and without lubricant and subjected them to salt water, heat, tropical humidity, mud, sand, dust, rain, and icing.

Ballistic testing examined accuracy, dispersion, penetration, and projectile performance. Reliability testing classified stoppages by how easily the operator could clear them. The XM249 exceeded the specified reliability levels for the less severe categories and came close to the target for severe failures.

The endurance test examined reliability and durability. Reliability is a user-measured mean number of rounds between failures. There are three categories of failures: Class 1, Immediately Clearable, i.e., the gunner can clear the stoppage in 10 seconds or less by a simple action, such as re-charging the weapon; Class 2, Clearable, the stoppage will take longer than 10 seconds but less than 10 minutes to clear by the operator and may involve some disassembly and use of the cleaning kit tools; and Class 3, Severe, a stoppage the operator cannot clear by himself, such as broken parts, and which requires an armorer or maintainer. With a 95-percent confidence factor that the next specimen would perform at the same plateau as the test gun, the XM249 exceeded the Specified Reliability Levels in Class 1 and 2 failures. It came close to the Specified Levels in Class 3 failures according to MIL-DTC-70446C standards. For durability, the XM249 was expected to have a minimum 50,000-round receiver life, which we know this gun can pass with flying colors.

The M249's overall performance made it the clear winner of the SAW trials. A subsequent operational test at Fort Benning reinforced those conclusions; it performed well enough that the Army decided a normal follow-on test was unnecessary. Marine Corps experiments at Aberdeen Proving Ground also produced hit-probability results that exceeded expectations. The Army and Marine Corps enthusiastically accepted the new squad automatic weapon.

The M249's design combined relatively low weight with features intended to make it practical for infantry use. It was gas-operated, with a two-position rotary gas regulator offering normal and adverse settings. Its operating system delayed extraction until the rotary bolt had unlocked, helping reduce extraction problems. The weapon's welded steel receiver and internal rails contributed to smooth operation and reliability.

One of its least useful features is the alternate feed. The M249 could accept disintegrating-link belts and standard M16 30-round magazines without modifications, and the normal ammunition when adopted was 600 rounds, carried in three 200-round assault packs. Compared with linked 7.62mm ammunition, 5.56mm significantly reduced the weight carried by the gunner. The M249 weighed about 15.5 pounds at the time of adoption, a substantial saving compared with the M60. But as we know, the weight increased as it was subsequently updated.

Other features included a chrome-lined bore, quick-change barrel, folding stock components, a loaded-belt indicator for night use, and sights adjustable to 1,000 meters. The weapon could also be mounted on existing tripods, although squad-level employment was expected to be its primary role.

Testing involving 29 XM249s saw more than 500,000 rounds fired. The M249 evaluation praised the weapon's handling, reliability, and hit capability. Its cyclic rate was approximately 750 to 950 rounds per minute, depending on ammunition, regulator setting, and fouling. The combination of portability, sustained firepower, and compatibility with the squad's 5.56mm ammunition made the M249 a significant improvement that filled a major capability gap the BAR left in 1957. While the BAR was a poor automatic rifle, it was definitely better than nothing.

The M249 represented the Army's answer to a problem that had persisted since the BAR era: how to provide infantry squads with enough automatic firepower without sacrificing maneuverability. Its adoption in 1982 marked the culmination of years of experimentation and testing. When the first weapons reached troops in late 1983 or early 1984, they had finally closed that capability gap after nearly three decades. The M249 had a long service life; though some loved it and some hated it, this was partly due to poor PMCS by users and services by maintainers, and a major lack of knowledge at both levels to keep the gun running at its best. If you had a new or properly maintained M249, you had a good experience. My biggest advice to SAW gunners is to get new ejector, extractor, and feed paw assemblies, and if you can get a new barrel, that would give you a more reliable SAW, as most are in rough shape. First, the new chamber and extractor improve extraction reliability, the new ejector helps the spent brass go in the right direction, and the feed paw assembly improves feeding reliability. All of this should give you a better SAW experience.

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week, we talked about the basics of finding the right optic for your carry gun. If you happened to miss that article, be sure to click the link here to check it out. This week, I wanted to take a look at how the Glock 19 rose to the gold standard of the carry gun market. I am well aware this article spot is sponsored by Glock, but if you go into the comment section of any top carry gun article, you will always see random people continuously say the Glock 19 is the absolute best. How did we get to this point and is it still true? Let's take a closer look at how the Glock 19 became the standard.

Guns in The Market At The Time

When the Glock 19 was first introduced back in 1988, you have to look at the overall market to see what was available. The HK VP70 was out, but it is widely known to have one of the worst triggers on a polymer handgun. The HK USP didn't drop for another year and the era of metal-framed 9mm handguns was in full swing. Police departments were snagging the 5906 and Beretta 92 FS platforms but weren't aware of the reliability of Glock for the time. As time went on, more and more departments started to understand just how reliable the Glock platform was, along with being an affordable option for departments.

Glocks were cheaper to maintain while offering simplicity in terms of shooting and being some of the most reliable pistols in durability testing. The Glock 17 was the popular model for departments, but as officers picked up a smaller-frame handgun for concealed carry, the Glock 19 was the rising star when you look at overall size, capacity, and reliability. The Glock was simple to field strip, with essentially 4 parts to clean, with minimal effort. The general trend in the gun world is the idea that whatever the military or police departments use will have a higher purchase rate in the commercial civilian market. After the 3rd generation of the Glock 19 dropped, it was one of the main options for concealed carry guns and sold significantly better than other options like the HK USP due to cost and overall reputation in the market. When the 3rd Generation of the Glock 19 dropped, its market share was already established, with only more to come when the era of aftermarket Glock parts was right on the horizon.

Progression With Aftermarket

As more and more younger shooters began to grow up with shooting Glocks as their first handgun, it was a natural progression for them to start modifying their guns, which led to the massive tidal wave of aftermarket support for these handguns. Whether it was people wanting to start putting red dots, new slides or magwells on their guns, there were a number of companies that were cutting slides and doing aftermarket work. This overwhelming amount of aftermarket support meant you could build any configuration you could dream of, which truly skyrocketed the Glock 19's popularity in the concealed carry market

Today's Offerings

When it comes to the Glock 19 in 2026, there are several configurations in the 6th generation lineup. Whether its the new optics mounting system, subtle gas petal or flat faced trigger, the new offering takes cues from the aftermarket community of previous generations and adds them into the factory standard model. I truly do think Glock looked at what some of the most common aftermarket upgrades were and decided to build these options into the handgun as factory options so people wouldn't have to jump through hoops in order to have the handgun they want.

I respect the new upgrades and think the 6th generation of Glock is a really strong offering right out of the gate without much need to customize. I’m very interested to see if the new 15-round factory magazines for the Glock 48 and 43X make a difference in sales for Glock, where people want to move to a slightly thinner and smaller handgun for concealed carry. While some may move to the Glock 48, there is an overwhelming number of people who will stick with the new Glock 19 because they think it's truly the perfect size.

Overall Thoughts

Glock brought us into the modern age of handgun design with their perfected polymer frame and simple construction, paving the way for modern striker-fired handguns that dominate the majority of the concealed carry market. While we may all have our own personal preferences on what we carry, there's no denying how prevalent the Glock 19 has become in modern gun culture.

What do you guys think of the new Glock 19 variants? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. If you have questions about carrying concealed or firearms in general, feel free to shoot me a message on Instagram @fridgeoperator. Stay safe out there and we will see you next week for another edition of Concealed Carry Corner.

TFB’s Concealed Carry Corner is brought to you by GLOCK

6.5mm shooters have something to celebrate. The COMP 6.5 series of suppressors is optimized for competition use. They are in stock and ready to order today.

Banish @ TFB:

• BANISH Goes Stainless with Two New Affordable Suppressors
• NEW Banish VRMT 223K Ti Silencer
• Shotgun Hunting Got More Quiet - The NEW Silencer Central Banish 12
• [SHOT 2025] The TINY Silencer Central Banish 9K
• NEW Banish VRMT 223K Ti Silencer

There are two COMP 6.5 models. The COMP 6.5 SS is the stainless steel version. It weighs in at 14.6 ounces with the two-port brake, or 12.2 oz without. It comes in black and FDE. The other is the COMP 6.5 Ti, which uses titanium construction. It weights 10.4 oz with the brake or 8.7 oz without the brake. Like the stainless model, it is also available in black and FDE cerakote finishes.

The COMP 6.5 has a 6.5mm bore, hence the name. It is rated up to 6.5 PRC. Like all other Banish silencers, it is backed by a lifetime warranty. The brake is one of the most noticeable features of the silencer, with two large ports for recoil control. These have become increasingly commonplace accessories on bolt gun silencers, and the COMP includes one out of the box. Banish includes a 5/8x24 direct thread mount, which is HUB compatible. That means it works with a wide range of other mounting systems as well.

From the manufacturer:

“BANISH Suppressors, an industry leader for pursuit-driven firearm suppressors, introduces the BANISH Competition Series, or COMP, beginning with the BANISH COMP 6.5 SS and BANISH COMP 6.5 TI, its first suppressors built around a dedicated .264-caliber bore. Both models ship with a two-port brake and a flat 6.5mm muzzle cap, letting precision shooters configure the suppressor for recoil control and a faster return to target with the brake, or maximum sound reduction with the muzzle cap.”

Legal scraps @ TFB:

• Judge Shoots Down Virginia's Plan For Universal Background Checks 
• New 72-Hour Waiting Law Takes Effect In Maine 
• NSSF Vows Legal Challenge if Maryland Bans Striker-Fired Handguns 
• New ATF "Engaged In The Business" Rule (Kinda) Blocked By Judge 

Fighting over marketing

Over the past few years, marketing has been one of the flashpoints of legal battles in the firearms world. In 2022, Bushmaster’s militaristic advertising was one of the sticking points in the Sandy Hook lawsuits that saw Remington forced to pay $73M in a lawsuit. However, the SAF says that’s unfair, and in the Daniel Defense v. Lowy case, they say a manufacturer’s advertising shouldn’t be held responsible for a third party’s actions. Quoting from the SAF’s press release describing their legal intervention:

“The plaintiffs in the case seek to hold lawful firearms manufacturers liable for a third party's crime on the theory that advertisements using military, patriotic, or law-enforcement themes promoted a ‘warrior mentality’ and appealed to ‘militaristic fantasies.’ The plaintiffs have never so much as proven the suspect in the crime even saw the ads in question, let alone that he was influenced by them to commit a heinous crime. The Fourth Circuit held that allegations the shooter was ‘exposed to and influenced by’ such ads satisfy Article III standing.”

The SAF says that civilians have been buying firearms based on military themes for many years, and that makes sense due to the Second Amendment’s mention of militias, not to mention the prevalence of “combat-suitable” arms in that period, and civilian participation in home guard service, posse comitatus service and even the Civilian Marksmanship Program in the generations since. Many of America’s most popular rifles and pistols were used by the military as well as civilians, and were marketed on that basis.

"This is not a new kind of speech. It is how Americans have sold and described arms since the Founding," says Kostas Moros, the Foundation’s Director of Legal Research and Education. He cautions that "If commonplace military or law-enforcement themes in lawful advertising are enough for standing, every manufacturer becomes a defendant after a crime committed with a similar product."

Foundation director Adam Kraut added that "Lawmakers will stop at nothing to throttle the Second Amendment, even if it means trying to prove marketing campaigns are the reason people commit crimes. We feel this case provides the perfect vehicle for the Court to make clear that historically ordinary speech about lawful arms does not make people break the law."

KUGS @ TFB:

• KUGS LR90 Ambidextrous Bolt Action Rifle 
• Wheelgun Wednesday: KUGS HD410 – Modern 410 Bore 18-Shot Pepperbox 
• Swiss KUGS FATBOY Single-Shot Rifle 

Switzerland has one of the best-organized militias in the world, where the militia members take part in annual military exercises and even get to keep their rifles. The current standard-issue rifle of the Swiss Army is the SIG SG 550, aka FASS 90, aka Stgw 90. Most military rifles usually have room for improvement and the Swiss one is no exception. Apparently, for Swiss militia members who regularly train and compete with their rifles, the standard bipod design leaves a lot to be desired and there was a demand for an improved one.

The problem is that any upgrades to the service rifles must be government-approved, which I guess is a counter-Bubba measure. Well, Florian Kohli, the owner of KUGS, managed to get his bipod designs approved by the Swiss authorities (SAT) and they will be included in the official Catalog of Authorized Accessories for Service Weapons effective January 1st, 2027.

There are two models of the KUGS bipod: FIXE and PROG. The FIXE has non-adjustable legs; the fixed leg length is 270mm (10.6”), which places the muzzle at 220mm (8.6”) above the ground. The PROG features adjustable legs with 265 to 305mm of leg length adjustment range. The prices in Switzerland are 379 Swiss francs for the FIXE, which, at the time of writing, is equal to about $455, and 479 CHF for the PROG, about $575. These bipods are also compatible with semi-auto-only civilian counterparts of the Swiss Army rifle, the SIG 550 and PE 90.

This week on TFB's Behind the Gun Podcast, I'm joined by Tom Willingham, founder and CEO of Range USA, the largest indoor gun range and firearms retail chain in the country. Tom's path here is anything but predictable — he spent his career as a commercial real estate appraiser in Cincinnati before a frustrating first visit to a gun shop at age 51 convinced him there had to be a better way to do this. He opened his first store in Blue Ash, Ohio, in 2012 on personal savings and a business plan sketched on the back of an envelope, and Range USA has since grown to 51 locations across 14 states, including a brand-new store that just opened in Monroeville, Pennsylvania. We talk through that whole path, what Range USA's Ohio roots still mean for how the company runs today, and I get to bring in a little of my own experience as a Range USA customer along the way for a fun conversation with one of the most successful indoor range owners in the country.

More TFB Behind the Gun Podcast Episodes:

• TFB Behind the Gun #233: Keeping Britain's Guns Alive in America 
• TFB Behind the Gun #232: FAST Auto Rifle Division ft. Russell Phagan 
• TFB Behind the Gun #231: Derrick Ratliff of Horizon Firearms 

TFB Behind the Gun #237: Tom Willingham of Range USA

Tom Willingham, founder and CEO of Range USA, joins TFB's Behind the Gun to talk about how a career in commercial real estate turned into building the largest indoor gun range and firearms retail chain in the country. Tom opened the first location in Blue Ash, Ohio in 2012 at age 51, after a bad first experience at a gun shop convinced him the industry needed a more welcoming, mainstream retail approach. We trace that growth from a single Cincinnati-area store to 51 locations across 14 states, including the company's newest opening in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, and talk about what staying rooted in Ohio still means for Range USA's culture as it keeps expanding nationwide.

Follow Range USA:

Online Store

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Monroeville location

Kimber’s award-winning R7 Mako: the polymer-frame, striker-fired micro-compact with 14 rounds total capacity, and a trigger you have to experience to believe. Feed your appetite for something different at www.R7Mako.com.

VNSH Holsters – www.vnsh.com/behindthegun

When you envision “bulletproof” firearms your mind might immediately leap to something steel, forged for strength, and with countless years of experience. We’re talking millions of guns made and billions of rounds fired through them. That firearm is the Model 1911. I can hear the two World War jokes coming from the peanut gallery already. Yet, without the timeless Model 1911, we don’t get the legendary TRP (Tactical Response Pistol) or the tricked, modern version that is the 2011. Next, if you want to tie in a bulletproof optic, most people would argue for something like an enclosed emitter red dot, or more specifically, the increasingly-popular Aimpoint COA. So, if we want to make ourselves a bulletproof combo, the logical combination is the Springfield Armory TRP topped off with an Aimpoint COA, and that is exactly what we are going to be reviewing here today. Let’s dive in!

Springfield Armory @ TFB:

• TFB Review: Springfield Armory XD Mod.4 9mm OSP
• TFB Review: Springfield Armory Echelon 4.5F 9mm COA
• TFB Review: Springfield Armory Echelon Alpha 4.0C 9mm
• TFB Review: Springfield Armory 10-8 Master Class 1911

Specifications - Springfield Armory 1911 TRP COA .45 ACP

The Springfield Armory 1911 TRP COA .45 ACP (SKU: PC9125LRCOA) has an MSRP of $2,424. To address the elephant in the room, that is absolutely expensive, but we are going to wade through all of the specs, features, and attributes to see if the value proposition is there. So, there are all of the technical specs for the 1911 TRP COA as presented by Springfield Armory.

Technical Specs

• Cartridge: .45 ACP
• Barrel: 5" Forged Stainless Steel, Match Grade, 1:16
• Slide: Forged Carbon Steel, Black Cerakote®, Aimpoint® A-CUT®
• Frame: Forged Carbon Steel, Two-Piece Magwell, Black Cerakote®
• Sights: Black Front & Rear, Aimpoint® COA® Red Dot
• Recoil System: 2 Piece N.M. Full Length Guide Rod
• Grips: VZ Grips® Hydra™ G-10
• Magazines: (2) 8-Round
• Weight: 39.2 oz
• Length: 8.6"
• Height: 5.5"

As always, it’s worth noting that in the rare event that you should ever need service for your firearm, Springfield Armory has a Lifetime Warranty that stands behind all of their firearms. While I have never experienced any issues with the various 1911 pistols from Springfield Armory that I have reviewed over the years, it is nice to know that you have that safety net and support from Springfield.

Standout Features

Beyond your basic spec sheet, there are several features that make the Springfield Armory 1911 TRP COA special. These elements can be boiled down to the Aimpoint COA that tops off this handgun as well as the enhanced magwell found on many TRP models. Those components are expanded upon below by Springfield Armory:

• Aimpoint® A-CUT - A precisely machined slide interface that allows direct mounting of the Aimpoint® COA® sight. This integrated system delivers a low-profile fit, exceptional stability, and repeatable zero retention.
• Two-Piece Magwell - The TRP™ comes with a two-piece magwell that is both extended and flared to ensure ultra-fast reloads.
• Aimpoint® COA™ Red Dot - The pre-mounted Aimpoint® COA® is a compact closed-emitter red dot featuring a crisp 3.5 MOA dot, rugged aluminum housing, and over 50,000 hours of runtime.

A Word from Springfield Armory on the 1911 TRP COA .45 ACP

“The art of building a TRP™ demands a hands-on approach. The 5” TRP in black Cerakote® features a forged slide and frame hand-selected for fit, with the slide factory-milled for the Aimpoint® A-CUT™ interface and the COA® red dot sight pre-installed. The combat-driven feature set is enhanced with an accessory rail for adaptability. Typically reserved for custom firearms, the TRP features 20 line-per-inch (LPI) checkering for a firm grip as well as top slide serrations for reduced glare and faster sight alignment.”

What’s the Upsell? What’s the 30-Second Elevator Pitch?

So, what’s the upsell? What’s the metaphorical and literal 30-second elevator pitch? For the 1911 TRP COA .45 ACP, you’re looking at several prominent traits that might tip the scale in favor of Springfield as opposed to a competing manufacturer at a similar price-point.

• A-CUT® MOUNTING SOLUTION - The A-CUT integrates directly into the 1911 slide via a full-length dovetail secured by a front hook and rear wedge. The wedge-locking mechanism transfers lateral forces into the dovetail, reducing load on screws and mounting interfaces, delivering high durability and reliable zero retention under demanding conditions. The ultra-low mount enables co-witnessing with iron sights for instinctive target acquisition.
• OPTIMIZED FOR CARRY - Built for concealed carry, the COA’s ultra-compact, lightweight design ensures effortless draw and a low-profile fit on handguns. Its fully enclosed optical channel and emitter resist rain, snow, dust, and submersion to 25 meters — while a quick-access battery compartment keeps you ready without having to remove the sight.

What’s in the Box?

One of the most common and recurring questions I receive reviewing firearms and their related products is, “what’s in the box?” Meaning, what do you all get with your purchase. This is important because what you do and do not get will dictate what type of accessories you need to additionally buy depending on what you want your end-product or concealed carry setup to look like. All this being said, this is everything that you will receive.

Included:

• (1) Owner’s Manual, Chamber Flag, Cable Lock
• (1) Nylon, Padded Case, (1) Cardboard Box
• (2) 8-Round Magazines
• (1) Aimpoint COA Red Dot with Instructions, Allen Key, and Adjustment Tool
• (1) 1911 TRP COA .45 ACP

Range Experience - Springfield Armory 1911 TRP COA .45 ACP

So, how was it shooting and using the Springfield Armory 1911 TRP COA .45 ACP?... For starters, we need to get familiarized with the Aimpoint COA enclosed emitter red dot because that is the headlining feature of this pistol.

Aimpoint COA Familiarity

The Aimpoint COA has caught on like wildfire in the past year as more and more firearm manufacturers have adopted it, and more and more law enforcement groups are deploying it as well. This popularity spills over into the civilian market - and oftentimes - the civilian market dictates what may, or may not, become popular for law enforcement.

The 1911 TRP COA comes outfitted and properly mounted from the factory, but even if the COA was simply inside your box upon purchase, it would be incredibly easy to install. Its hinge-into-place design is not only incredibly simple to mount, but it lends itself to superb durability and reliability.

Zeroing and Sighting-In

In terms of zeroing and sighting-in the Aimpoint COA that comes adorned on this Springfield Armory 1911 TRP, it is quite simple. You have easy-to-adjust windage and elevation knobs on the exterior of this enclosed emitter and you also receive a tool to do those necessary adjustments. This factory package was basically dead-on out of the box, but I still made an attempt to boresight it (align it with the iron sights). Within one magazine, I had this printing perfectly on paper.

Final Thoughts

So, what are my final thoughts on the Springfield Armory 1911 TRP COA .45 ACP? Overall, this pistol performs exactly as you would expect: great accuracy, better grip, reliable, durable, and with curb appeal to match. The only detracting factor of this pistol is the price-point. The MSRP of $2,424 is a lot. I’m not making the case that that price is inappropriate for the value you get, but it is definitely a lot of money. For anyone who is looking for a duty pistol to trust their life on, or wants an unquestionably durable handgun, this is it. If you’re a recreational shooter, I would point you to Springfield’s standard 1911 TRP models. You get all of the sexiness and accuracy at a much more attainable price (starting at an MSRP of $1,732).  

In closing, I want to thank Springfield Armory for allowing TheFirearmBlog and myself the opportunity to try out their new Springfield Armory 1911 TRP COA .45 ACP. That is greatly appreciated. Also, we would like to know what all of you guys and gals think? Do you believe that the Springfield Armory 1911 TRP COA .45 ACP is something worth spending your money on? Would you potentially deploy it to shoot a league or competition? Use it for home defense? As always, let us know all of your thoughts about Springfield Armory and their 1911 TRP COA .45 ACP in the Comments below! We always appreciate your feedback and engagement.

Ok, this is big and thoughtful. This TFB Photo of the Day pairs an 1870 canvas with its modern answer. Alphonse de Neuville's "Les Dernières Cartouches" captured French marine and artillery troops making their final stand inside the Bourgerie inn during the Battle of Bazeilles, fought August 31 and September 1, 1870, as far larger Bavarian forces closed in. Outnumbered and running low on ammunition, the soldiers held the position until the cartridges ran out. More than a century later, the French Marine Infantry Parachute Regiment restaged the same composition, swapping period rifles for modern carbines and turning a rubble-strewn room into a near shot-for-shot recreation, right down to the wounded man propped against the wall.

Revolver round-up @ TFB:

• Wheelgun Wednesday: Lightweight Versus Full-Weight Revolvers 
• Wheelgun Wednesday: Revolvers In Bike Culture 
• The Rimfire Report: Henry’s Golden Boy Revolver 
• Manurhin MR73 Revolvers Return to the U.S. Market 

The basic load-out

North American Arms’ revolvers are very well-known for their ability to offer self-defense in a micro package. Not everyone wants to stake their life on a rimfire round, but sometimes you’ve got no other choice. I remember reading about one undercover narcotics cop who hauled an NAA revolver to beachside meet-ups hidden away in a soft drink cup, because that’s all they could bring for a SHTF scenario. Other owners will tell you similar stories. There’s no smaller, more discreet firepower available.

But what if you want something that’s a little more blinged-up, whether it’s to resist corrosion or simply to look good when you’ve decided to un-conceal your concealed carry weapon? That’s what the Second Mate is all about, according to NAA’s write-up:

Second Mate” is NAA’s answer to those looking for luxury in their collection. The NAA-22LR-NBC-HP features a high polish & navy blue Cerakote frame finish and simulated white pearl grip. This compact .22LR revolver is built for those who want style without compromising on performance. Its lightweight, ultra-concealable design makes it ideal for pocket carry, backup protection, or everyday carry. Like all North American Arms revolvers, this collector’s piece is hand built and timed in the United States, offering dependability that you can count on.

Built with North American Arms’ renowned craftsmanship, the Second Mate offers a single-action operation, durable stainless steel construction, and easy handling in a discreet package. Whether you’re looking for a dependable personal defense option or a standout addition to your collection, this mini revolver is ready to perform.

Carrying this for self-defense

Is the Second Mate something you can trust your life on? Helpfully, NAA actually publishes ballistics tables on their website to help you make that decision for yourself. Checking on the tables here will give you figures for several common CCI rimfire rounds, fired from a 1.125-inch barrel, standard length for many NAA revolvers (including the Second Mate). Admittedly, those bullet velocities are measured at a mere 8-foot distance, but most users would never plan to shoot these miniature handguns at distances longer than that anyway. With CCI Mini Mags or Stingers, the high-velocity measurements are over 700 fps at that range, and the low-velocity measurements are just under. Whether that is enough for you, or it isn’t, is a choice that only you can make.

Some shooters might prefer the .22 Magnum version of the NAA miniature revolvers, and sooner or later, it seems likely they’ll make a revolver similar to this one chambered in the more powerful cartridge. NAA is constantly changing their lineup, making small improvements and offering new models with a slight change-up on their formula. It’s only a matter of time before there’s a more powerful version of this model, too, which may be preferable to anyone carrying this piece for real-world self-defense scenarios.

See NAA’s official specs for this new handgun below, and see more details on this and their other offerings on their website here.

A good spotting scope can mean a huge difference when it comes to zeroing or getting those long-range hits exactly where you want them on the target. Leupold has announced the MX-6HD family of spotting scopes, a first focal plane design aimed at spotter and shooter teams, or for anyone calling impacts, scanning terrain or identifying targets at a distance. Leupold's product manager John Snodgrass says the goal is for a team to be "seeing the same thing and speaking the same language." If you’ve ever seen a sniper team work together, you know what it means.

That common language comes from the reticles. The MX-6HD is offered in four options: PR2-MIL, Tremor 4, TMR and a new FOV reticle. The FOV reticle is a simple circle marking the edge of the field of view at 48x. Two more reticles, the H32 and MIL-GRID 6, are reserved for military and law enforcement buyers. Because the reticle sits in the first focal plane, it grows and shrinks with the target, so the spotter can use it at any magnification. If the shooter uses the same reticle, it’s all going to make a lot of sense.

The scope is built around Leupold's Professional-Grade Optical System. Leupold says it delivers bright low-light resolution, strong glare reduction and edge-to-edge clarity for positive long-range identification. The 8-48 zoom range is deliberate: the low 8x setting is meant to work with night vision, while 48x covers long-distance observation. It is designed to operate much like a riflescope, with a side image focus and an independent eyepiece diopter, so the image and reticle can be sharpened separately.

Leupold uses a folded light path and a magnesium housing to keep the scope compact and light. The listed length is 13.9 inches and the weight is 51.7 ounces. Removable Picatinny and M-LOK rails let users attach laser designators, thermal or night vision devices and other accessories. Dual Arca-Swiss mounting surfaces allow quick tripod mounting, with integrated 1/4-20 threads for other tripods. The scope comes with flip-up lens covers, interchangeable eyecups and a heavy-duty hard case.

The MX-6HD is waterproof, fogproof and covered by Leupold's Lifetime Guarantee. It is designed, machined and assembled in Beaverton. Leupold's site lists the FOV, TMR and PR2-MIL versions at $3,999.99 and the Tremor 4 version at $4,999.99.

Which reticle would you choose? Does matching your rifle's reticle matter?

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If this post has you ready to hit the range, head over to gunranges.com - a free directory to help you find shooting ranges near you, wherever you are in the United States.

Maximum MDT @ TFB:

• Recoil Control with Minimal Weight - The MDT Titanium Hunting Brake 
• MDT Releases Lightweight Mountain And Backcountry Bipods 
• MDT ACC Premier GEN2 Chassis Now for Ruger 10/22 & Volquartsen Rifles 
• [SHOT 2024] MDT Shows Wide Range Of New Products For 2024 

ACC Elite upgrades

Back in 2022, when MDT released the ACC Elite chassis for the first time, Hrachya wrote it up and told us:

MDT ACC Elite chassis is CNC machined out of 6061 aluminum and has an anodized finish with Black, FDE or Titanium Blue color options. The chassis features an improved MDT SRS-X Elite buttstock that has an adjustable LOP and cheek rest height, an M-LOK slot at the bottom for adding a rear bag rider, and QD sling swivel sockets. For adjusting the balance of the rifle, weights can be added to the stock.

The MDT ACC Elite chassis comes with a redesigned adjustable MDT Vertical Grip Elite that is connected to the stock via a bar. Above the grip, there is an adjustable ambidextrous M-LOK thumb rest. The adjustable magwell is taller with a larger barricade stop front wall. The ambidextrous magazine release latch is also adjustable. The chassis comes with pre-cut tapes that can be attached to the area above the trigger guard to work as reference points for the trigger finger.

The 19″ M-LOK forend of the MDT ACC Elite chassis features an integrated bottom full-length ARCA rail, QD sling sockets, is drilled and tapped for adding MDT night vision hoods, and comes with custom cut grip tapes that can be added to the bottom to provide better purchase on barricades or bags. The forend can also be used to adjust the balance of the rifle by adding weights to it.

The latest upgrade

The Ruger American short-action rifle now has the ACC Elite available, offering the same upgrades to competition shooters who are running a factory action—offering customization to shooters who haven’t upgraded to a custom action. The ACC Elite chassis accepts AICS-pattern magazines and AR15-pattern grips. The Ruger American version has the same colors available as other rifles, a Cerakoted Black, Flat Dark Earth, or Titanium Blue finish. You can find more details at mdttac.com, or at an MDT dealer.

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If this post has you ready to hit the range, head over to gunranges.com - a free directory to help you find shooting ranges near you, wherever you are in the United States.

Below the slide, the changes get more interesting. The pistol uses a Coyote Brouwer M1811 grip module with a detachable magwell, which SIG says improves ergonomics and makes reloads more efficient. A GoGun Gas Pedal takedown lever adds another point of contact for the support hand, and the X-Series flat blade trigger is fitted to the fire control unit. The barrel is a threaded 5.5-inch (139.7 mm) carbon steel unit, so suppressor use is on the table from day one. We like that!

The pistol has an overall length of 9.125 inches, a width of 1.75 inches, a height of 6.25 inches and a weight of 32.8 ounces with a magazine. Sight radius is 6.875 inches, and the optic sits on the M17/M18 MHS footprint. The M17-SOF is covered by the SIG Sauer Infinite Guarantee.

At the time of writing, the product page lists the M17-SOF as "Coming Soon", and there is no price listed yet.

For SIG’s product page, just click the link: https://www.sigsauer.com/m17-sof.html 

For those who think they’ve seen something similar before, this should work as a reminder: Sig Sauer M17 With SOCOM AAL Upgrades.

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If this post has you ready to hit the range, head over to gunranges.com - a free directory to help you find shooting ranges near you, wherever you are in the United States.

Franklin Armory explains that:

“Rabbit Rounds provide coyote, wild pig and other medium-sized game hunters with an alternative to more cleanly harvest smaller game with non-expanding, shotgun-like pellets. Each 45-grain Rabbit Round projectile assembly provides more than double the typical shotshell speed and power, achieving 3,150 feet-per-second muzzle velocity and 992 ft-lbs. of energy from a 16-inch AR-15 rifled barrel. The imparted spin-stabilization on Rabbit Round’s four hard-hitting lead projectiles maintain an effective pattern beyond 40 yards, increasing hit probability on fast-moving targets over single projectile ammunition.”

The AK is one of the most widely encountered rifles in the world and has been used by military and security forces in many different countries for decades. Because of its widespread use, personnel may encounter AK-pattern rifles in a variety of settings, including civilian AK retailers, professional environments, training situations, and while working alongside partner forces that use the AK. Every weapon experiences wear and tear and will eventually fail, even the AK. Regular cleaning and preventive maintenance checks and services (PMCS) are essential for avid sport shooters and any warfighter. Understanding the weapon's condition, maintenance considerations, and common AK deficiencies can provide useful background for anyone who may encounter one. This article briefly covers the importance of preventive maintenance, inspection, and identifying potential faults to maintain equipment reliability and serviceability. This is for both civilians and those using AKs or training partner forces.

Inspection

First, before buying and using the weapon, visually inspect the rifle for damage to better assess its condition. Begin with an overall examination of the rifle. Inspect for obvious damage, corrosion, contamination, missing components, and other visible deficiencies. During this inspection, you also conduct a function check to ensure everything works. If a gunsmith or maintainer can check the headspace, that's beneficial.

Inspect the weapon's major external components. Examine the stock and exterior surfaces for damage or deterioration, and check the sights and other externally mounted components for general condition. Also inspect the receiver and associated components for visible signs of excessive wear, damage, or other abnormalities. These inspections identify problems that may require attention before the equipment is returned to service.

The inspection continues with the weapon's major internal and associated assemblies. Inspect components associated with the bolt carrier group, front trunnion, especially its right locking shoulder, and the ejector for general condition and signs of unusual wear or damage. The top cover and other major components are likewise checked for visible deficiencies. Inspect the magazines separately for overall condition, cleanliness, and signs of damage or deterioration.

After examining the individual components, the maintenance inspection considers the equipment's overall cleanliness and maintenance condition. The final purpose of the PMCS process is to ensure that deficiencies are discovered as early as possible. Regular inspections help prevent minor problems from developing into major equipment failures and support equipment reliability and readiness.

Cleaning

Cleaning has different levels; this applies to any weapon system. Field stripping is designed to be done in the field and at the range, while further breakdown and detailed cleaning is done back in garrison, where you can fully disassemble the weapon for cleaning in a better-controlled environment. This helps soldiers avoid losing smaller parts in the field or at the range.

Cleaning is like any other weapon: start with the barrel and gas block, then clean the chamber. I once had a malfunction where carbon buildup in the gas block seized my piston when I was shooting. It went forward, but not back, so I had to mortar it, so make sure you clean it well. Also, if it's really bad, you can use a half-inch plumbing copper cleaning brush to clean out carbon buildup. Make sure the chamber is clean, as it can cause extraction failure. I always kept a bore snake to clean out the barrel and chamber when I was in the field. For barrel maintenance in the field, when in doubt, clean it out if you think something got in there.

Cleaning the receiver: take apart the major components and clean the bolt, carrier, and front trunnion locking shoulder. Clean the main spring assembly. Clean the fire control group, then reassemble and perform a function check. Finally, apply light lubrication to prevent rust.

For the maintainer level

Hopefully you start with a clean weapon, begin with a visual inspection, and then check headspace. If the headspace is bad, you can tag it as it’s a deadline fault. For the civilian, if you check your headspace (or have a gunsmith check it) and it's bad, you can have a gunsmith adjust it by swapping the bolt or pushing the barrel back and drilling a new barrel pin. For those maintainers operating in forward locations around the globe, if you have some bad rifles, you can see if swapping a bolt can get you a better headspace. Only do this if you have gauges to verify the headspace. If you have erosion gauges and firing pin protrusion gauges, that’s great; use them, but most don’t. AK barrels typically last 10-20k rounds; actual barrel life can vary depending on how the weapon is used, such as whether it runs hot or not, and depending on what performance you are wanting from the rifle.

For civilians and maintainers doing service on AKs, it's recommended to replace all the springs at roughly 5-8k rounds. AK springs generally last a long time, but they do fatigue over time, and performance will vary between manufacturers. Monitoring spring tension, length, and consistency of function will help you catch issues early. Replacing them on this schedule preserves reliability and keeps the weapon performing to the standard that the AK is known for.

As for spare parts, I keep bare essentials in my range bag, including key springs, a spare firing pin, extractors, a compact cleaning kit, lubricant, and armorer tools. It’s nothing excessive, just enough to keep the weapon running if something fails in the field. Keeping these items on hand and maintaining a consistent inspection routine goes a long way toward reducing downtime and preventing avoidable malfunctions.

The Germans and the Dutch weren’t as lucky as the U.S. Marine, and only got rubber guns to play with. Regardless of all the new exciting firearm programs, the M4A1 remains a solid on ranges across NATO member forces for exactly this kind of proficiency training, regardless of which badge someone wears day to day. Today's TFB Photo of the Day proves a good flash photograph doesn't always need a professional lighting rig.

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Images by: Senior Airman Jared Lovett, U.S. Air Force

Wilcox has a new, programmable sighting system. The VIPR (Visually Integrated Precision Reticle) optic has a range of digital reticles that can switch on the fly to accommodate different ammunition types or use cases. Those options allow the user to switch to counter UAS ammo and reticles should the need arise.

Wilcox @ TFB:

• Wilcox Unveils MINI-GL40 Modular 40mm Grenade Fire Control System
• Aimpoint PRO X Wilcox Anniversary Package On Sale Now
• Friday Night Lights: Wilcox Grips – Nightstalker PowerGrip & Ultimate Control Grip
• Review: Wilcox RAPTAR Lite ES – Weapon Light/Laser
• Friday Night Lights: Wilcox BOSS Xe – Laser Aiming Device + Red Dot

Unlike other red dot sights, the VIPR can maintain a range of reticles with different zeroes. These are controlled through an app for easy customization. This programmable nature allows for super and subsonic ammo in the same gun. Or standard ammunition and counter-drone rounds through the same gun. This also combines with reticle choices that are optimized for that ammo type. This could also work for switching between less expensive practice ammo and duty or match ammo.

Pricing and availability information are not yet available, but you (or your government agency) can contact Wilcox for a quote.

From the manufacturer:

“The Wilcox VIPR™ is a highly effective and easy to operate direct view optical sight with digital reticles. It combines the familiar feel of a holographic sight with significantly expanded capability. It is simple to operate with a single button nested inside a single scroll wheel, which is designed for reliable use with a gloved hand. The VIPR optical system allows Operators to select reticles for CQB, mid‑range, and CUAS (using the Dragonslayer Systems™ Rapid Integrated Precision Reticle) as needed, which match weapon platforms and ammunition ballistics. This allows VIPR to deliver a unique, but often required, capability that matches the fight as it shifts.”

Bergara has a new rifle model optimized for the PRS production class. The Premier Competition Elite family of rifles is built to be an off-the-shelf match winner. Keep reading for all the details.

Bergara @ TFB:

• Bergara’s New BTi30 Titanium Suppressor
• The New Bergara CIMA PRO Bolt Action Rifle
• Bergara Expands Premier Series With the Platinum Stalker
• The Rimfire Report: On the Range with the Bergara BMR Carbon .17 HMR
• TFB Review: MDT ACC Elite Chassis System with Bergara B14-R 22LR Rifle

The Premier Competition Elite is built around Bergara’s renowned Premier action with a 16-inch heavy contour barrel. The barreled action sits in an MDT ACC Elite chassis system. That chassis has been very popular among precision rifle competitors. It offers an adjustable thumb rest, full-length Arca rail, and fully adjustable stock.

Bergara offers a full range of calibers used in PRS competition. 22 Creedmoor, 25 Creedmoor, 6mm Dasher, 6mm GT, 6mm Creedmoor, 6.5mm Creedmoor, and 308 Winchester (for those of you in tactical division) are all available. All of those calibers come with a 12-round magazine. Retail price for the Premier Competition Elite is $2999.

From the manufacturer:

“Built specifically for the precision shooter, the Bergara Premier Competition Elite brings together a refined, purpose-built platform designed for the demands of PRS-style competition. At its core, the Competition Elite brings together Bergara’s Premier barreled action with components selected around the realities of precision rifle competition. The MDT ACC Elite chassis provides the adjustability, balance and stability needed to move efficiently between positions, while the TriggerTech Special trigger offers a clean, adjustable interface behind the rifle. An MDT 12-round magazine rounds out a configuration designed around reliable feeding and the demands of a match environment. The Competition Elite gives shooters the modern performance and competition-focused features they have come to expect from custom rifles, now in a factory class platform.”

HEVI-Shot is the company that’s always been known for making upland and waterfowl loads that hit harder. This has been understood by hunters for years, and this unspoken agreement amongst their customer base is what the same company is leaning harder into now. HEVI-Shot is officially - HEVI - and the tagline of "Hit Harder" is their new ethos as HEVI’s new brand identity and website reinforce what it has always stood for: delivering uncompromising performance for hunters and shooters who demand the best.

HEVI @ TFB:

• HEVI-Shot Ammo Adds New HEVI-Metal Xtreme 12 Gauge #2 & BB Shot
• HEVI-Shot Ammo Introduces New HEVI-Hammer 12 Gauge Waterfowl
• HEVI-Shot Ammunition Releases .410 Gauge HEVI-XII Waterfowl Loads
• HEVI-Bismuth Upland from HEVI-Shot – "For Modern & Classic Guns"

Hevi-Shot is Re-Branded to HEVI

HEVI-Shot (now called HEVI) has been around since 1999 and their mainstay in technology and performance has always been high-density tungsten pellets. Today, HEVI is more than a pellet manufacturer. Dropping 'Shot' from its everyday nomenclature signifies the company’s growth beyond a single shot type.

For hunters walking into a crowded retail store or sporting goods dealer, HEVI’s new packaging will hopefully stand out from the crowd, make it easier to scan, and find the product they’re looking for.

A Word from HEVI on their Re-Branding

“Ozark, Missouri - September, 2026 - HEVI, an industry leader in performance shotshells, recently launched a new, hard-hitting campaign, including a strong and simplified brand name and logo treatment. This shift marks a bold evolution for the ammunition company and brand. The rebrand includes several marketing elements, such as a new logo, tagline, rolling packaging change, and a new company website.

“We aren’t just making a single component anymore, and a small product line that featured that component,” said Tina Larsen, Marketing Manager for HEVI. From our straight tungsten loads to the devastating power of layered tungsten products like HEVI-Hitter and the everyday reliability of HEVI-Steel, we offer a comprehensive line of high-performance shotshells. Although our new brand name is shorter, our vision is much bigger."

“Many loyal customers were already using the shorthand name for the brand, casually saying phrases like ‘I shoot HEVI,’ so we saw an opportunity to build a brand that reflects the confidence and passion of the people who shoot it,” said Jason Nash, Vice President of Marketing at HEVI. “The new look is cleaner, stronger, and more recognizable, but the promise remains. HEVI is committed to delivering products that perform.””

Carrying a pistol with a weapon light attached is one of those things that sounds simple until you go shopping for a holster. Add a light to your carry gun, and your holster options collapse from hundreds down to a handful, or none in some cases, and half of those that do fit your gun only support one or two light types. Run something outside the mainstream, and you're often stuck waiting on a custom build or settling for a holster that fits the light but not the way you actually want to carry. FALCO's TalonGuard line is built specifically around that problem. I've been carrying two of them, the A911 L inside the waistband and the C915 L outside, both set up for light-bearing guns, to see whether the leather-and-Kydex hybrid approach actually holds up when there's a light hanging off the dust cover.

More from FALCO Holsters @ TFB:

• FALCO Holsters Branches Out into NEW Minimalist Wallets & an EDC Tray 
• FALCO Expands Multi-Fit Line With AM03, DM04 Holsters 
• Off-Body Carry: Falco Holsters Concealed Gun Bags 

The A911 L is a half-leather IWB build. Kydex TalonGuard insert up front covering the trigger guard and light, leather backer against the body, FALCO's matte black stainless steel spring clip rated for 1.5- and 2.0-inch belts. It ships with two adjustable retention screws and an optional concealment claw for appendix work, an open bottom for threaded barrels, and support for over 80 weapon lights. Current site price is $125.95, up from the $119.95 MSRP FALCO announced at the late-2024 launch, so the number has crept a bit.

The C915 L is the OWB pancake. It drops the clip for widely spaced polymer belt loops that spread the gun's weight and keep it planted, sized for the same 1.5 to 2.0 inch belts, and carries the same light-enclosing Kydex insert. One thing I'd flag: FALCO's product page for the C915 L doesn't list adjustable retention screws, even though the standard non-light C915 gets that callout in the company's own press materials. It's either a gap in the listing or a real design difference where the pancake leans on the insert's passive retention alone. Confirm that with FALCO before you order if adjustable retention is a dealbreaker for you. The C915 L runs $139.95.

Out of the Box Impressions

I am pretty familiar with FALCO’s product lineup at this point, and the TalonGuard is their take on the hybrid holster, and the light-bearing versions are where the design makes the most sense (even though I’ve been using their A911 for the Bodyguard 2.0, which doesn’t have a light). The core is a molded Kydex insert that fully wraps the trigger guard and the light on both sides, and that insert sits inside a pre-tanned Italian leather shell. On a light-bearing gun, that matters more than it does on a bare pistol, because a weapon light adds extra bulk and hard edges that a floppy all-leather holster struggles to control when paired with the relatively slim handgun slide. The Kydex cage locks the light in place while the leather handles everything touching your body for a more comfortable carry experience, with what I think is a bit of extra range of motion too.

I requested the A911 L up for my P365 X-Macro with a SureFire XC3, and the C915 L for a Strike Arms SAP-C pistol with a Streamlight TLR-7sub. Both arrived obviously handmade, with FALCO's signature thick stitching and hand-finished edges. The fit around each light is snug and correct and comes with an accompanying “click” when fully seated. Each holster FALCO makes is molded to the exact profile of whatever light/gun combo you have, in this case the XC3 and the TLR-7 sub, rather than a blue gun or an approximated shape from just measurements. The A911 L, while new to me, is probably my favorite holster line from FALCO at the moment. As I mentioned earlier, it's the holster I'm currently using for my non-light Bodyguard 2.0 as well, so I already had a sense of how the platform carries, feels, and wears in before the light-bearing versions showed up.

Carry Experience

If you've owned a FALCO before, you already know the first thing I'm going to say about these: they come stiff. That’s just the nature of leather. Unless it's been pre-treated, leather almost always shows up a little undersized and stiff as a board, and in the worst cases it won't seat the gun at all until it's worked in. I've handled enough FALCO holsters to say they've never once failed to fit a gun they were built for, but out of the box they can be genuinely tight. FALCO knows this, which is why they sell break-in kits, and it's worth grabbing one if you're not the patient type. Otherwise, expect a break-in period on both, thankfully shorter than a full-leather light holster thanks to the Kydex insert doing the retention work.

Once broken in, the A911 L draws exactly the way I want it to, same as the Bodyguard 2.0 I already run in this platform. I can get a full firing grip from both appendix and 4 o'clock without fighting the holster, and the claw earns its keep at appendix by cinching the X-Macro's fairly long grip in tight against my body to cut printing. Reholstering is just as clean, and the reinforced mouth keeps the edges from folding in even when my aim into the holster isn't perfect on the first try.

The C915 L has even better retention and stands off the body just enough to feel stable without pushing the grip out into a print. The catch is the draw. The way the gun sits in this holster, I can't get a full firing grip at the start. I end up pulling with my pinky and ring finger plus a pinch of thumb and palm pressure to clear the gun, then building my full firing grip after it's out. It's not intolerable, but I'd much rather have a complete firing grip from the first move of the draw, and that's my one real functional gripe with either holster.

Durability

I haven't had these two long, but I've handled enough of FALCO's other hybrids to have zero doubt these will hold up. Across every FALCO I've run, I've yet to have one fall apart on me or even start to. They're pretty much bulletproof. There's no question in my mind that FALCO's holsters are some of the most durable leather rigs out there, and part of the reason they come so stiff is the same reason they last: there's more Kydex caging in the holster, and FALCO's designs can feel almost overbuilt for the sheer amount of real leather reinforcement packed into them. Both carry FALCO's lifetime limited warranty and a 30-day buyback. Their reputation on leather and stitching is well earned, but their own product pages do carry a scattering of stitching complaints and at least one retention issue that dragged through the claims process before it got resolved. On a handmade, made-to-order product, piece-to-piece consistency is the thing to watch, so give your stitching a once-over and confirm the light locks in properly the day it shows up.

Final Thoughts

The light-bearing TalonGuards solve a real problem for daily concealed and open carriers alike: finding a comfortable, well-retained holster for a gun with a light on it without defaulting to full Kydex. The A911 L is the pick for concealed appendix or strong-side IWB carry, especially if you're running a less common light. The C915 L covers the OWB crowd who need stability over deep concealment for range days and duty-adjacent use, though the fact that I can't get a clean full firing grip without reorienting my hands after the initial draw is a real annoyance.

Not every recruit arrives at basic training already squared away, and that is exactly what RAMP (Recruit Adjustment and Motivation Program) exists to fix. Some of us have “been there, done that”, or been in similar places. Here we see a U.S. Coast Guard company commander walk a recruit through the correct way to hold his rifle during the Recruit Adjustment and Motivation Program, a weekly session built for newcomers who need extra reps before they can keep pace with the rest of basic training.

The first rifle I ever really shot was a plain old Ruger 10/22, and the ammo feeding it came out of a brown box that looked like it belonged in my grandfather's tackle shed. Peters. Forty grains of lead, high velocity, round nose, and in my memory it never once let me or my 10/22 down at the range. Every round went bang, every can went flying, my groups were as good as they could be for a new shooter, and I never thought twice about it as a child, just happy to be at the range with his dad. Years and a lot of ammunition later, a friend randomly handed me a near-full brick of the stuff. Same brown box, same old-timey lettering, stored so carefully it could have rolled off the line last week or thirty years ago. Between the sands of time and my slowly deteriorating memory, there's no honest way to tell just by looking at this stuff to tell if it's any good anymore, so today we’ll group and chronograph a box of it to see if its performance lines up with my memories of it.

A Baptist minister named Gershom Moore Peters founded the Peters Cartridge Company in Kings Mills, Ohio, in 1887, and within two years the plant was turning out four thousand rounds an hour along the Little Miami River. Peters earned a reputation for quality, and that reputation is a big part of why the name still moves product today, even though no one alive today was around for when the company was in its founding era, much less its Remington era.

Remington bought Peters in 1934. This merger is why Remington centerfire brass features an "R-P" headstamp. Purists will tell you the only true Peters ammunition is the pre-1934 stuff, made while the company still ran itself. Everything after was Remington, though the Peters name refused to die and is still alive today via some special Remington-produced lines of paper cartridge shotgun ammo. Peters as a brand hung on for decades as a heritage label, most famously on the brown box with the flying duck that plenty of us pulled out of a Christmas stocking sometime in the 1970s, or (like me) at the local sporting goods store on the way to the range.

Which brings me to the brick I now have on my bench. Sometime in the 2000s, Remington dusted off the Peters name again as a promo run, brown box and old-timey lettering included, sold cheap at big-box sporting counters. The worst-kept secret in rimfire is that it's almost certainly Thunderbolt in a classic Peters ammunition skinsuit, the same 40-grain lead round nose Remington has loaded forever. Not as memory-invoking as the box would indicate.

Rimfire Remnants

There's no official Peters Cartridge .22 LR page, and Remington's current catalog on remington.com lists Thunderbolt, Standard V,  Golden Bullet, Yellow Jacket, Viper, Target, Golden Hunter, Performance Wheelgun, and Ranch Hand, and Peters is not among them in 22LR. Long before the late 2000s promo revival, Peters is the same 40gr high-velocity load as Thunderbolt and carries no spec sheet of its own and even comes in similar packaging, just with a different art style and name; the numbers below are both Remington's published both Remington’s Thunderbolt figures and the ones that come on the side of the Peters box.

Velocity and Reliability

The ammo thankfully runs beautifully in virtually any gun you stuff it in. Last time we talked about Remington rimfire ammo, I noticed that their now-discontinued standard velocity ammunition had a somewhat polished, unlubed lead bullet. It seems that the Remington-produced Peters 40gr ammunition shares this same bullet, and as a result, it has an easy time feeding through all of my semi-auto .22 LR guns, and the bolt guns as well. When it comes to velocity, the ammo also has enough power behind it to run my Beretta 21A Bobcat, which can have a difficult time reliably cycling even with 40-grain Mini-Mags. I’ve also been toying around with FarrowTech’s F17 chassis for the Kel-Tec P17, and it's been one of the few ammunitions that doesn’t get gummed up in the pint-sized chassis gun.

The chronograph gave us an average velocity of 1,124 fps, a standard deviation of 21.3 fps, and an extreme spread of 96.5 fps. All in all, this isn’t half bad for a 50-round box of ammo. The graph tells the story a little bit better, as I did hear quite a few rounds both well above and well below the supersonic threshold, which is a telltale sign that the ammo will be rather inconsistent downrange at greater ranges. However, again, similar to the Remington Standard Velocity, the Peters-branded .22 LR, though discontinued, doesn’t live by its raw chronograph numbers alone. Out of some pistol-length barrels, this ammo is just slightly subsonic and very reliable, which makes it pair well with modern .22 LR pistol suppressor hosts.

Accuracy Data

Turns out my memory was better than I gave it credit for. This ammo is about as accurate as I remember it being when I was a kid. Out of five 10-shot groups at 50 yards, the best ran close to the size of a dime, maybe a hair oblong side to side. I went in expecting a wider spread, especially since I could hear a real difference in report between some rounds. I got a little of that, but the odd-sounding shots didn't reliably move the point of impact the way I figured they would.

We're not really missing much, though. Its spiritual successor is still on shelves as Remington Thunderbolt 40gr, the same load in a plainer wrapper. The new-formula Thunderbolt claims "tighter tolerances, revamped primer mixes and industry-leading technology" for better consistency and lower chamber pressures at the same velocity, which is something we'll have to put on the chronograph down the road.

As hunting seasons get underway, if you joined one of the new cartridge bandwagons like 7mm PRC or 300 PRC, you might be finding it difficult to locate ammo at your local gun shop. There is good news though that Federal is producing more offerings of PRC (Precision Rifle Cartridge) rounds everyday. This includes their latest Berger Elite Hunter 7mm PRC as well as ELD-X 300 PRC.

Federal @ TFB:

• 18 Ammo Rebates from Federal, HEVI, Remington, Fiocchi for Hunting
• TFB Review: Federal 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak Ammunition - Is It Hot or Not?
• Remington, Speer, and Federal Drop Summertime Defensive Ammo Rebates
• It’s on the Truck! Remington, Federal Rifle & Shotgun Ammo is Shipping

Federal Berger Elite Hunter 7mm PRC & ELD-X 300 PRC

The Berger Elite Hunter bullet offers some of the industry’s highest ballistic coefficients in a hunting bullet. Its thin jacket design produces extreme hydrostatic shock and a massive wound cavity on impact. These Berger hunting loads should produce lethal accuracy at extended distances.

• 7mm PRC 195 Grain Berger Elite Hunter | 2,760 FPS | P7PRCEH1 | MSRP $84.99

The ELD-X bullet is a match-accurate, hard-hitting hunting bullet touting a high ballistic coefficient and a design that provides dynamic expansion at a wide range of velocities. It features a unique polymer tip that resists deformation to achieve consistent ballistics and initiate extreme-range expansion, as well as a concentric copper jacket and robust shank.

• 300 PRC 212 Grain ELD-X | 2,860 FPS | P300PRCELDX1 | MSRP $81.99

Both new loads are manufactured with Federal Premium casings and primer components and are sold in standard 20-count boxes.

A Word from Federal on their Berger Elite Hunter & ELD-X

“Anoka, Minnesota - September, 2026 - Federal Ammunition has added two new loads to its Federal Premium® product lines. Federal’s Premium branding is reserved for the highest-tier factory-loaded products using cutting-edge components and specialized bullet technologies. The new loads are Berger Elite Hunter in 195-grain 7mm PRC and ELD-X in 212-grain 300 PRC. These two new loads are now available at dealers nationwide. 

“Shooters looking for options in 7mm PRC and 300 PRC will now find even more choices from Federal,” said Josh Vickers, Federal’s Centerfire Product Manager. “The 7mm PRC is a modern, beltless centerfire rifle cartridge, engineered for long-range precision shooting and big-game hunting. The 300 PRC is a high-powered, 30-caliber magnum rifle cartridge designed for exceptional accuracy and performance at extremely long ranges.””

Final Thoughts

As always, let us know all of your thoughts about Federal Premium ammunition, their 7mm PRC 195 Grain Berger Elite Hunter, and the 300 PRC 212 Grain ELD-X load in the Comments below! We always appreciate your feedback and engagement.

Wingshooting weaponry @ TFB:

• Fudd Friday: The Winchester Model 42 Is Sub-Gauge Sweetness 
• NEW Akkar USA Ranch Hand & Meat Stick Shotguns 
• Escort WS Youth: A New Kid-Friendly 20 Gauge 
• EAA Corp's New Left-Handed Churchill 212 Field Shotgun 

A familiar formula

Derya is a Turkish manufacturer, founded in 1998, and selling guns all over the world. They sell mostly tacticoolish shotguns and .22LR rifles, and lots of handguns. But sometimes they mix stuff up with Fudd-friendly material like the EX1300. Here’s what they tell us about it:

“The EX1300 is built on a monolithic steel receiver finished in nickel, paired with deep black chrome barrels and a hand-selected Turkish walnut stock and forend. Steel automatic ejectors throw fired hulls the moment the action opens. A single selective trigger and a tang-mounted safety with an integrated barrel selector let the shooter choose which barrel fires first. Centered top-lever and tang controls and a stock with no cast-on or cast-off make the gun equally at home in either hand.”

The EX1300 is coming to North America in 12-gauge, 20-gauge and .410. The 12-gauge has a 28-inch barrel and will chamber 2.75-inch or 3-inch shells; the 20-gauge has 26-inch barrels and can also handle standard or magnum shells. Derya says the shorter barrel means it’s only 43 inches long, and that means it’s perfect for creeping around thickets, looking to flush sharptails or other upland game. And the .410 version has 28-inch barrels, giving a young shooter a chance to handle a smaller-framed but overall full-sized shotgun. All versions of the shotgun weigh 6.64 pounds, Derya says, with a 14.3-inch length of pull. All these shotguns come with three flush-fit Mobilchokes (in full, modified and improved cylinder).

Pricing appears to be $699; see more deets here.

The air is getting crisp and your shooting buddies are calling you to the firing line. If you’re looking to do some sporting clays this fall, Remington has some new flavors of their Premier Nitro Sporting Clays line to keep you firing on all cylinders (and hopefully crushing clay pigeons).

Remington @ TFB:

• It’s on the Truck! Remington, Federal Rifle & Shotgun Ammo is Shipping
• Federal & Remington Awarded FBI Rifle Ammo Contract for 4 Bullet Types
• The Rimfire Report: Is Remington’s Budget Cyclone 22LR Any Good?
• The Rimfire Report: Remington’s Discontinued Standard Target 40gr RN

Remington Premier Nitro Sporting Clays

Remington produces 10 unique selections of their Premier Nitro Sporting Clays across .410, 28, 20, and 12 Gauge shell sizes, all of which deploy their unique golden hull that has a legendary reputation as one of the most reloader-friendly designs in the clay target-shooting world. Their newest additions are a #7 ½ and #8 Shot offering boasting a 1 ounce payload moving at 1,250 feet per second. Those two new offerings are predictably sold in 25-count boxes and are listed below:

• 12 Gauge 2 ¾” #7 ½ Shot 1 Oz | 1,250 FPS | SKU: 20256 | MSRP $20.99
• 12 Gauge 2 ¾” #8 Shot 1 Oz | 1,250 FPS | SKU: 20258 | MSRP $20.99

A Word from Remington

“Lonoke, Arkansas - September, 2026 - Remington Ammunition announces the addition of two new loads to its Premier Nitro Sporting Clays product line. Remington Premier shotshell ammunition is a fixture on the nation's trap, skeet, and sporting clays ranges and has earned its popularity because of consistent velocities and uniform patterns. The new loads include two 12-gauge, 2-3/4-inch, 1-ounce loads in shot size No. 7.5 and 8, with a muzzle velocity of 1,250 fps. These new products are being delivered to dealers nationwide.

“Our Premier target loads were developed with the most avid sporting clays shooters in mind," said Ronnie Evans, Remington's Shotshell Product Manager. "We pride ourselves on listening to the feedback of our customers, so these two new loads are powered down to a 1,250-fps muzzle velocity, which is what shooters have been asking for in this product line. Premier Nitro Sporting Clays provides the sporting enthusiast with a shotgun shell that is packed with tournament-winning components.””

Final Thoughts

As always, let us know all of your thoughts about Remington Ammunition as well as their new additions to the Premier Nitro Sporting Clays lineup in the Comments below! We always appreciate your feedback and engagement.

Welcome to TFB Weekly Web Deals 206! We’re back with more deals on guns, gear, ammunition, and accessories from some of our most frequented online retailers like Strike Industries, 5.11 Tactical, Primary Arms, Natchez Shooters Supply, Palmetto State Armory, Brownells, and more. Whether you’re looking for deals on new or used guns, ammo to add to your reserves, or specific accessories like flashlights, range bags, optics, bipods, and magazines, each week we’ll have new sets of deals that might fulfill one of those needs and save you a few dollars.

EDT Multitool

Sale Price: $7.12

Because carrying a bottle opener, pry tool, wire stripper, hex wrench, screw driver and rulers – even in our roomiest cargo pants – isn’t ideal, 5.11 presents the EDT Multitool. Constructed with super-strong stainless steel, it’s 10 tools built into one, compact piece. And it travels safely and securely in the kydex sheath with a carabiner to clip to your belt loop or pack. Go nowhere without it.

MOLLE Packable Backpack 12L

Sale Price: $18.73

When adaptability is a standing order and you never know what the day will bring, the MOLLE Packable Backpack is the remedy. Constructed from 70D recycled ripstop nylon, this backpack weighs only .3 kg. Packed in an integrated self-pocket, it stows discretely and out of the way. When deployed, the backpack expands to a generous 12-liter capacity. A clamshell opening on the main compartment offers fast access. Comfortable mesh shoulder straps are held in place thanks to the removable sternum strap. Attach extra gear using the built-in with MINIMOLL™ MOLLE strap system and laser-cut MOLLE on the shoulder straps. Hydration compatible, this pack also includes stretchable woven side pockets for water bottles. With additional external pockets, gear loops and a rear haul handle, the MOLLE Packable Backpack provides versatility in a pinch.

Flex Vertical GP Pouch

Sale Price: $22.12

Never leave the station without the Flex Vertical GP Pouch. This padded pouch with an expandable drop bottom has a top zipper closure with tension lock webbing pulls to securely carry your critical gear or even a 32-oz. water bottle. The Flex Vertical GP Pouch is designed for total adaptability, with the Flex-HT™ mounting system featuring ½ stacked webbing on the back for mounting versatility, plus flexible ¾ waterproof TPU-coated straps for easy weaving to all platforms. Be ready to roll with anything that comes your way with the Flex Vertical GP Pouch. Imported.

5.11 Norris Sneaker

Sale Price: $29.97

The 5.11® Norris Sneaker is a high-top casual sneaker that combines style, comfort, and tactical intelligence, making it an exceptional choice for those who value both fashion and functionality. This unique footwear is designed to provide optimal traction and durability, particularly on wet surfaces, thanks to its Vibram® Marbrani outsole with XS Trek. The 5.11® Norris also features Ortholite® technology, ensuring your feet are cushioned in total support and comfort throughout the day. The sneaker is ASTM certified for puncture resistance, and its super-strong Welmax board protects your feet against up to 1,200 newtons of force. This shoe is more than just a stylish addition to your wardrobe; it's a reliable and functional choice for any situation. The climbing grade rubber toe protection and Ortholite® upper cuff offer additional comfort, heel hold, and protection, making the 5.11® Norris Sneaker a top choice for anyone in need of versatile, durable footwear. Imported and built to last, the Norris Sneaker is the perfect blend of style, comfort, and tactical intelligence.

Vehicle Ready Hexgrid® Seat

Sale Price: $25.87

Commuting, off-roading, or pulling security for an NGO convoy across the Djado Plateau in a gun truck, the HEXGRID® Seat Platform will improve the journey. The HEXGRID Seat is a vehicle ready seat panel multi-angle load bearing platform for accessory arrangement and modular pouch management. The panel features a full loop face and provides placement for an assortment of hook and loop and Gear Set™ attachments.

RUSH® MOAB™ 8 Sling Pack 13L

Sale Price: $69.49

Ambidextrous sling shoulder strap system with MOLLE

Tactec™ CCW compartment with breakaway hook-and-loop access

External MOLLE on front, sides, and strap for modular attachments

Rear hydration pocket with pass-through port

Large front pocket with internal admin organization

Main compartment with internal storage pockets

Fleece-lined eyewear pocket for scratch-free protection

The MOAB™ is built for the calls that keep you mobile. The sling flips sides and adjusts on the move. Breakaway CCW access gets you in fast. MOLLE on the strap, front, and sides lets you dial in your loadout. Interior layout keeps tools and essentials tight. It's as close to being adaptable as you are.

Flex Double Multi-Caliber Mag Pouch

Sale Price: $39.49

Choose your weapon without worrying how to carry your mags. The Patent Pending Flex Double Multi-Caliber Mag Cover Pouch has adjustable side panels and a bungee cord with a cord lock system for various mag sizes. The front panel comes with laser-cut MOLLE ready for extra attachments. Flex-HT™ technology provides mounting versatility and easy weaving to all platforms with waterproof TPU coated straps. The front and bottom panels are double layered with 500D for extra durability. An alternate top bungee retention system is included. The drain hole built into the bottom panel adds extra convenience while a reliable Duraflex® G.C. snap gives extra security. No matter your mag size, 5.11® has you covered.

Allhaula™ Backpack 30L

Sale Price: $99.49

From weekday grind to off-grid chaos, the Allhaula 30L stays in the fight. Day pack. Go-bag. Ride-or-die hauler. Toss it. Drag it. Beat it down. Doesn't matter how hard you run it. When you push past the limits, it hauls through 'em.

30L capacity is big enough for a day’s worth of gear, compact enough to stay agile

Zippered main compartment fits a laptop or hydration setup

Fleece-lined valuables pocket protects your phone, shades, or essentials

Interior organization pockets keep cables, tools, and gear squared away

Water-resistant, easy-to-clean fabric is tough against spills, dirt, and grime

Ballistic nylon bottom panel is reinforced to take a beating where it counts

Laser-cut MOLLE panels for modular loadouts across shoulder straps, front, and side

Skyweight hip belt compatible makes it add-on ready for heavy hauls (belt not included)

42" Double Rifle Case

Sale Price: 129.49

 Protect your favorite firearms with our 42" Double Rifle Case. This professional-grade case provides fully padded protection for two full-size rifles up to 42-inches in length. It comes with an adjustable padded divider that can be quickly removed. Four internal rifle-retention straps prevent unwanted shifting during transport. Removable backpack straps and a carry handle combined with the 5.11® signature CenterLine™ design make transporting rifles a breeze. Internal and external MOLLE panels, and an external pocket with interior elastic bands to secure gear, maximize your carrying capacity. Lockable YKK® zippers and an ID loop add a layer of protection at the range. The 5.11® Double Rifle Case is the carrying system your firearms deserve.

Elements Fleece Hoodie

Sale Price: $40.87

Everyday Comfort. Built to Endure.

5.11 graphic hoodies are designed for everyday performance and all-season comfort. This premium midweight fleece delivers dependable warmth, lasting softness, and a structured feel that holds up to daily wear.

Midweight Fleece Comfort: Delivers warmth without unnecessary bulk.

Soft with Structure: Comfortable feel that maintains its shape.

Everyday Versatility: Designed for wear from start to finish.

Built for Longevity: Holds up through regular use.

MATERIALS: 80% GOTS-certified organic cotton / 20% recycled polyester

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Made in the USA

5.11® Men's Straight Fit Defender-Flex Light Pant

Sale Price: $40.87

The Defender-Flex Light Pant delivers a clean straight fit with lightweight durability built for everyday wear. Constructed from breathable stretch plain weave, it balances mobility, comfort, and dependable performance through long days on the move. With thoughtful pocketing and stretch where it matters most, it’s a versatile pant designed to adapt to work, travel, and everything in between.

Lightweight Stretch Fabric – Durable polyester-elastane plain weave provides flexibility and breathable comfort throughout the day.

Enhanced Stretch Construction – Stretch waistband and pocket bags move naturally with your body for improved comfort and durability.

Expanded Utility Storage – Eight-pocket layout with utility drop and back yoke pockets keeps essentials organized and accessible.

MATERIALS: Body: 87% polyester / 13% elastane plain weave with moisture-wicking and odor-control properties

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Imported

36" Single Rifle Case 28L

Sale Price: $59.49

Your new go-to rifle case comes with all the right stuff for a trip to the range or out on exercises. Fully padded with external MOLLE webbing and Gear Set™ compatibility so you can Always Be Ready with extra mags or attachments. On the inside, you have removeable rifle retention straps as well as padded butt stock and muzzle sleeves to protect your firearm. Provides excellent carry-ability with a comfortable padded handle and removable shoulder strap. Whether you're planning a day of sport shooting or an overseas mission, this case has your six. Imported.

Engage Full Zip Sweatshirt 2.0

Sale Price: $29.97

Tackle the day ahead in our Engage Fleece Full Zip 2.0. This hoodie-style jacket will serve you for years thanks to a tough, yet soft, 60-percent cotton and 40-percent polyester fleece blend. The ribbed cotton-elastane sleeve cuffs and waist help retain body heat and keep the jacket in place while you move throughout the day. A two-way zipper in the front provides easy on and off while the hood cinches down for blustery conditions. Pockets are kangaroo style with double entry and zippered outer layer.

Deals at Primary Arms

SureFire M340C Mini Scout Light Pro Weapon Light - 500 Lumens - Black

Sale Price: $249.99

The SureFire Mini Scout Light Pro offers the same ultra-compact design, 500 Lumen output, and shrouded tailcap as the standard model, but features a brand-new body design with a versatile mounting system. The new light body mount can be switch from either picatinny or M-LOK and allows you to orient your light at any angle to optimize ergonomics when use in conjunction with laser aiming modules or other accessories. The M340C Mini Scout Light Pro Weapon Light uses a single CR123A battery to power the 500 Lumen light head. The Mini Scout Light Head utilizes a proprietary TIR lens that produces a highly focused beam at a high intensity with soft surrounding light. The rear tailcap switch offers momentary or constant on function and can be replaced with other SureFire Scout tailcaps for use with remote switches. The entire weapon mounted light is constructed from aluminum, hardcoat anodized black, and O-ring sealed to protect it from the elements. The Mini-Scout Light Pro 500 Lumen Weapon Light brings more versatility to your weapon system without the added cost of a mount.

Geissele Automatics 2-Stage AK-X Trigger

Sale Price: $239.89

The Geissele Automatics 2 Stage AK Trigger was designed to provide shooters with a consistent, clean trigger pull for excellent and repeatable accuracy. Easy to install, this trigger is compatible with AK-47 and AK-74 pattern rifles and pistols and features an orange housing and tool steel trigger face with a corrosion-resistant black finish. This premium AK trigger features a smooth and consistent pull with a crisp wall and clean break, allowing shooters to stay on target more effectively.

North American Rescue Combat Application Tourniquet - Orange

Sale Price: $24.99

The North American Rescue Combat Application Tourniquet (C-A-T) is the official tourniquet of the U.S. Army! Laboratory tested and combat proven, this true, one-handed tourniquet has been proven to be 100% effective by the U.S. Army's Institute of Surgical Research. The Gen 7 features a durable windlass system with patented free-moving internal band provides true, circumferential pressure to the extremity. A unique, dual securing system avoids the use of screws and clips that can be difficult to operate under survival stress or where fine motor skills are compromised.

Rugged Alaskan360™ Multi-Caliber Suppressor

Sale Price: $679.74

The Alaskan360 Suppressor from Rugged Suppressors is a multi-caliber suppressor that's built tough enough to handle your next expedition. The Alaskan360 was made with the Alaskan climate in mind, so it uses 17-4 stainless steel and U.S. grade 5 titanium to excel in even the toughest conditions. Weighing in at only 11.8 ounces and only 7.5" long with the included mount, you can add this suppressor to a wide range of firearms thanks to the .36 cal bore. Whether you need an effective suppressor for 5.56, 9mm or .308 caliber weapons, the Alaskan360 is designed to tame even the highest pressure rounds and is full auto rated.

Trijicon SRO Sight Adjustable LED 1.0 MOA Red Dot

Sale Price: $549.99

The Trijicon RMR is well-known for being the most rugged mini reflex sight on the market and has found its way onto many pistol shooters handguns over the last few years. However, it was designed with duty use in mind and left out an important crowd—the competition shooters. Now competition shooters no longer need to make sacrifices with the release of the Trijicon Specialized Reflex Sight (SRO). Built from the same base as the RMR for mount compatibility, the Trijicon SRO is designed specifically for pistols to give competitive shooters the edge with their handgun. The most significant difference with the SRO is the increased window size allowing for a much larger field of view that rivals the competition. This allows you to more easily track the dot and switch to your next target much faster improving your split times. While the patented frame design is gone from this model, it still features an anodized matte black aluminum housing that is more than enough to protect the ultra-clear glass. With zero noticeable parallax and high-tech lens coatings, the glass in this mini red dot sight cuts down on glare and will stand up to heavy competition use. The Trijicon SRO Red Dot Sight is the next step forward in competitive handgun use, so don’t get left behind and drop this optic on your pistol.

Blue Force Gear Limited Edition Vickers Sling - Frog Skin

Sale Price: $54.99

The Blue Force Gear Limited Edition Vickers Sling is a two-point rifle sling that incorporates a patent-pending Quick Adjuster for rapid length changes and repeated, tactile adjustments. It is intended to facilitate swift transitions between comfortable carry and a ready-to-fire position while maintaining secure retention during dynamic weapon handling. This Frog Skin patterned Invista solution-dyed CORDURA sling measures 54 to 64 inches, and the hardware consists of low-profile, glass-reinforced DuPont Zytel nylon with a contrasting pull tab on the Quick Adjuster. The sling attaches directly to fixed-loop mounting systems and accepts optional hardware for alternate attachment methods. The sling is manufactured in the United States.

Armaspec Sound Mitigation Buffer H3 - Gen3

Sale Price: $53.99

Armaspec has been a firearm enthusiast's go-to source for AR15 and AR10 barrels, bolt carrier groups, Glock and Kalishnikov rifle parts, and even 1911 pistol enhancements for the last nine years. This Sound Mitigation Buffer™ H3 series for AR platform rifles from Armaspec is an excellent example of the company's dedication to producing products that offer a tactical advantage at a fair price.

Magpul ACS Carbine Stock - Mil-Spec - Black

Sale Price: $75.99

The Adaptable Carbine Stock is a drop-in replacement buttstock for AR-15/M4 carbines with MIL-SPEC receiver extensions. Dual, rear accessible, water-resistant battery storage tubes store up to three CR123A lithium or two AA batteries. An integral storage compartment in the butt of the stock offers additional storage. Features an anti-snag release latch to prevent accidental activation along with a friction lock system that minimizes excessive stock movement for enhanced weapon stability and accuracy.

Deals at Palmetto State Armory

PMC X-TAC 5.56 NATO Ammo 55 Grain FMJBT, 20 rds/box

Sale Price: $8.99 ($0.45/rnd)

Designed and manufactured as if your life depends on it because it might. PMC's exacting adherence to the precise specifications of military and law-enforcement organizations assures that X-TAC ammunition will perform perfectly in that fraction of a second when a serious threat arises and your life is on the line. Self defense begins and ends with reliable, consistent ammunition. Nothing is more important than life. Protect yours, confidently, with X-TAC from PMC. PMC X-TAC Line Manufactured to the highest industry and military specifications to ensure its performance, without fail, when your life is on the line. PMC's X-TAC ammunition is powerful, accurate and dependable, because in a life-threatening situation, no other standard is acceptable. 20 rounds per box.

Steel Yugo Hold-Open AK-47 Magazine - Used Surplus Condition

Sale Price: $12.99

These Surplus Yugoslavian AK Magazines are for 7.62x39 AK-47s and are constructed of steel. The 30-Round Capacity, all-steel, no flex construction makes this magazine rugged and dependable for hard use. The magazines also equipped with bolt hold open. Used Surplus Condition.

**Due to the nature of surplus magazines, the appearance of them can vary with some cosmoline, spot rust, paint, and scratches. They have been inspected to ensure functionality.

Smith & Wesson Model 686 .357 Magnum/.38 Special +P Stainless Steel Revolver

Sale Price: $649.399

The Smith & Wesson L-Frame is specifically engineered for continuous Magnum ammunition use. Its strong frame and barrel construction ensure long-lasting performance, making it a preferred choice for demanding shooters, including police officers and hunters. This reliable firearm features a 6-shot cylinder and a corrosion-resistant satin stainless finish.

Ruger Mark IV 22/45 .22LR 4.4" 10rd Pistol, Black

Sale Price: $329.99

Experience the perfect blend of simplicity, accuracy, and reliability with the Ruger Mark IV .22 LR pistol. Benefit from its groundbreaking one-button takedown for effortless cleaning and maintenance. Enjoy superior accuracy thanks to its cold hammer-forged barrel and consistent internal bolt design. Customize your setup with the integrated Picatinny rail and threaded barrel. The Ruger Mark IV offers a comfortable grip, ambidextrous safety, and comes with two 10-round magazines. A top choice for shooters of all levels.