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reader Blowback � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 6 Bullet Board by Dave Emary� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 33

Editorial by Eric R. Poole � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 15 lock, Stock & Barrel by Kyle Lamb� � � � � � � � � � � � � � 37
Gun room by Garry James � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 17 range Bag by Richard Nance � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 40
Handgunning by Jeremy Stafford � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 23 proofhouse Mossberg Patriot LR Hunting � � � � � � � � � 80
Gun Tech Streak Visual Ammunition � � � � � � � � � � � � � 27 Spent Cases by Keith Wood � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 88
rifles & Glass by Tom Beckstrand � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 29

GUNS & AMMO Magazine, Copyright 2020 by Outdoor Sportsman Group®. All rights reserved.
CAUTION: Some advertisements may concern products that are not legally for sale to California residents or residents in other jurisdictions.
Guns & Ammo (ISSN# 0017-5684) April 2020, Volume 64, Number 4. Copyright 2020. Published monthly by OUTDOOR SPORTSMAN GROUP®, 1040 6th Ave., 12th Floor, New York, NY 10018-3703. Periodical postage paid at
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FAILURE IS
NOT AN OPTION
Our optics are built to take a beating.
While others warranty failure, we
guarantee performance for life.

#LEUPOLDCORE
 4 G &A Ap ril 2020

gunsandammo.com
An Outdoor Sportsman Group® publication

pUBliSHEr
Mike Schoby

EDITORIAL
EDiTOr
Eric R. Poole
ASSOCiATE EDiTOr
Heather Schoeneman
ArT DirECTOr
Michael Ulrich
STAFF pHOTOGrApHEr
Michael Anschuetz
SENiOr EDiTOr
Garry James
SENiOr FiElD EDiTOr
Craig Boddington
riFlES AND OpTiCS EDiTOr
Tom Beckstrand
Optic not included

CONTRIBUTORS
Chris Cerino, Dave Emary, D. Faubion,
Mark Fingar, Brad Fitzpatrick,
Robert W. Hunnicutt, Kyle Lamb,
RS22W2111 Lukas Lamb, Jill Marlow, Richard Nance,
22 WMR Alfredo Rico, Jeremy Stafford,
Joseph von Benedikt and Keith Wood
prODUCTiON COOrDiNATOr
Al Ziegler

ENDEMIC AD SALES
NATiONAl ENDEMiC SAlES MANAGEr
Jim McConville (440) 791-7017
WESTErN rEGiON
Hutch Looney hutch@hlooney.com
The 22 Magnum semi-auto adds extended range and faster
EASTErN rEGiON
follow up shots to this popular line of Rossi rifles. Built on a Pat Bentzel (717) 695-8095
rugged and ergonomic polymer stock platform, these rifles
combine free-float barrels and exceptional trigger perfor- MiDWESTErN rEGiON
Mark Thiffault (720) 630-9863
mance for target shooting and small-game hunting.
NATIONAL AD SALES
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NATiONAl ACCOUNT EXECUTiVE
CHiCAGO OFFiCE
Carl Benson (312) 955-0496
SAFETY NOTE: Always wear ear and eye protection when shooting firearms.
(Images shown are for marketing purposes only and are not intended as safe firearm DirECT rESpONSE
handling examples.) ADVErTiSiNG/NON-ENDEMiC
Anthony Smyth (914) 693-8700

SUBSCRIPTIONS INQUIRIES: Should you wish to change your

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6 G&A A pr il 20 20
R E AD ER WRITE US! “Letters,” Guns & Ammo, 2 News Plaza, 3rd Floor, Peoria, IL. 61614, or email us at gaeditor@outdoorsg.com.
B L OW BACK Please include your city and state of residence. Letters may be edited for brevity and clarity.

MAY Õ66
The cover presented a com-
memorative 1966 Golden
Gun, a Model 94 made to
celebrate 100 years of Win-
these caliber bullets were chester and honor the first
.355 versus +/- .357. Winchester, the Model 1866,
nicknamed “Yellow Boy” for
Jim Thomas its brass receiver. The com-
Corvallis, Montana memorative was gold plated
and featured an octagon
barrel. Out of focus in the
All of the .38s you men- background was an original
tioned are the same case Bohlin bronze of the brand’s
and same chamber. They horse and rider. Once an old
cowhand, Bohlin sculpted the
represent progressively hot- statue with fine and accurate
ter loaded ammunition. The detail.
.38 Super Comp is the new-
est and is loaded to stout
pressures intended for com-
petition use in purpose-
built race guns. The 9mm
Luger and 9x19mm are
the same cartridge. The
9x21mm was introduced
in the mid-1980s to allow
civilian use of handguns in
foreign countries of a 9mm
cartridge. The 9x21mm
gets around the ban in
.308 FOR HUNTERS certain countries that have Hornady bullet loaded with
I just read Eric Poole’s column “Deer Hunter” and his forbidden its citizens from 47.5 grains of IMR 4831 for
conclusion that the .308 Winchester is still a winner. I have owning a firearm in a 2,770 feet per second (fps).
to agree. It is one of the best cartridges for all-around military chambering. The What is the .260 AAR? Is
hunting. Attached is a picture of my black wildebeest 9x21mm features the same it the same as a 6.5/.257
taken in South Africa last August using a Howa 1500 rifle cartridge overall length Roberts? Is the reloading
chambered in .308 Win. He fell to one shot at 255 yards (COL) as the 9mm Luger, data interchangeable? Also,
using handloads with a 150-grain Nosler E-Tip bullet. Also but the case is 2mm longer. is the 6.5/.257 Roberts
taken was a nice blesbok. What a great trip. As a result, performance a wildcat for the 6.5x57
John Colucci of the 9x21mm is a little Mauser by a different
Wolcott, Connecticut higher than the 9mm Luger. name? Ultimately, I would
— D. Emary like to know if I can shoot
.38 VS. 9mm this in my Japanese Type 38
Sorting various cases, I .38s and 9mms? What’s OLD CARTRIDGE Arisaka that was converted
came across .38 Auto, .38 the difference between the MYSTERY to shoot the .257 Roberts
Super, .38 Super +P and different 9mm cartridges I was reading the May 1966 cartridges case. I’m guess-
.38 Super Comp. Along and .38s? Rather than issue of Guns & Ammo fea- ing that’s what “6.5/.257R”
with these, I’ve found asking me to read various turing a column by Robert represents.
the usual 9mm Luger, reloading manuals or books Hutton. In it, he mentions Anonymous
9mm Luger +P, as well on cartridges, would you in a chart a cartridge called
as 9x19mm and 9x21. mind helping me decipher the .260 AAR (6.5-.257R) I don’t know what the 6.5
What’s with the various these? I thought all of that carried a 140-grain AAR is, but from the sounds
 8 G&A Ap ril 2020 | reAd er b l ow bA ck

of what you described, it winder key for it. He should get one or two while
could be the 6.5x55mm they’re still out there. Of course, Mr. Calgaro
cartridge. The 6.5 Japa- should check his local ordinances for magazine
nese cartridge ran at lower capacity restrictions.
pressures than the 6.5x55, richard Antee
so what I would do is use Queen creek, Arizona
the 6.5x55mm reloading
data and stop about 100
fps below maximum. This
would keep the pressures
more like the 6.5 Arisaka
round. It ran at about
45,000 psi and the 6.5x55
ran at about 50,000 psi. In
these cartridges, 100 fps
would be a difference of
about 5,000 to 6,000 psi. I
hope this helps!
— D. Emary COLE HAUSER’S LEVER
In Mike Schoby’s July 2019 interview with Cole
MILITARY GUNS Hauser in “Behind the Scenes,” Hauser appears
I am 68 years old and a on page 79 carrying a flat dark earth (FDE) lever-
long-time reader. First, I action slung over his back. What was that and
want to thank all the vet- who finished it? It’s a beautiful rifle!
erans on G&A’s staff (and Jeff Stearns
everywhere else) for their email
service. I have interest in
the guns that our military is The one you are referring to is a Wild West Guns
using. However, every time Co-Pilot Takedown Marlin, which is obviously
I read an article it seems as different than the historic Winchester seen in the
though it mentions a new opening photo. They have shops in Anchorage,
rifle, pistol or cartridge Alaska, and Las Vegas, Nevada. You can learn
recently adopted by a more about their work at wildwestguns.com.
three- or four-letter agency — M. Schoby
or unit. I could use an arti-
cle or series that explains
what guns each group or
With 420 lumens and branch of the military is
a 160-meter beam, the being issued.
KelTec™ CL-43 flashlight Scott Sheddon
will light up everything Mentor, ohio
friend or foe. It’s uniquely
M1927A1 DRUM
designed for firearm use,
Concerning Bob Calgaro
impact and water resistant
of Bridgeville, Pennsyl-
and available in 7 colors.
vania, and his desire to
Innovation. Performance. SAVAGE OMISSIONS
find a drum magazine for
KelTec. See more at
his new Auto Ordnance Thanks for Craig Boddington’s article on the his-
KelTecWeapons.com 1927A1 Thompson, a tory of Savage Arms in the January 2020 issue. It
50-round drum is available was great, but he left out the Model 1920 intro-
from Sarco Inc. (sarcoinc. duced just after World War I. I don’t blame Craig
com) under item number for the oversight, but was the editor asleep?
TMP146. They cost $189.95 Consider Roy Chapman Andrews and his 1920s-
plus shipping and handling. era expeditions to the Gobi Desert. There are
©2020 Kel-Tec CNC Industries, Inc
No, it’s not cheap and he numerous photos of him with both the Savage
may need to purchase a Model 99 and the Model 1920 rifles. How about
 LESS BUCK
Our new, affordable P17™ pistol makes range days a lot less expensive and far more fun.
It’s light weight, easy to handle and features a fiber optic front sight and an adjustable
rear. With low cost .22LR ammo and a 16+1 capacity, you can to rack up bullseyes for
pennies a pop. Innovation. Performance. KelTec. See more at KelTecWeapons.com.
©2020 Kel-Tec CNC Industries, Inc
10 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | re Ad er b l o wbA ck

a follow-up feature on the ket. I appreciate all of the a couple of calibers. Each able to use the IMR 3031
Model 1920? input from the ex-military company can make their smokeless powder in place
Jim Meitzner members of its staff. As a own business decisions, but of Pyrodex? I’d appreciate
clinton Township, Michigan former soldier and U.S. Air let the reading public have advice on this matter.
Force combat controller, the information. donald Schalk
I erred badly in not men- may I wish you the best. Steven Alonso elgin, Illinois
tioning the Savage Model Jerry broadway email
20, and many readers wrote defuniak Springs, Florida Absolutely not! Do not use
in to set us straight. Thank IN SEARCH OF IMR 3031 in any blackpow-
you all for pointing out the I bought a 1868 Springfield der firearm. Your best bet
correction. Although it was Trapdoor .50-caliber rifle a will be to look for a black-
not a commercial success, while back. The stock has a powder substitute.
the Model 20 was an crack in it, but mechanically — D. Emary
important rifle. Not only was it’s OK to shoot. I’d like to
it Savage’s first bolt-action, try, but I’ve not been able NRA FINANCES
but as far as I can tell, it was to locate a source of ammo. The February issue had a
the first American centerfire It must be blackpowder. Is letter questioning the NRA’s
bolt-action sporter from a ammo available for it? financial information and
major manufacturer. (Techni- Frank Foran directors’ salaries. You can
cally, Newton’s bolt actions email find the NRA’s Form 990,
preceded it, but the several the Return of Organization
iterations of Newton rifles You can get blackpowder Exempt from Income Tax,
never sold well and are even AN OPEN MIND .50-70 ammo from Buffalo online. Their return is avail-
rarer.) In any case, this was My first impressions of Arms by calling 208-263- able for public inspection.
an inexcusable gaffe. I admit Kyle Lamb’s new Marlin 6953 or visiting them online Matt lohr
that I have never seen a 1895 that appeared in his at buffaloarms.com. beaver dam, wisconsin
Model 20, but from photos January column, “Lever- — G. James
it looks like it was nifty and Gun Revenge,” were that DEAR SANTA
far ahead of its time. I’d go it was the most odd and As a subscriber for a couple
looking for one in .250 Sav- distasteful-looking lever-gun years now, Guns & Ammo’s
age, but left-handed me has on the face of this planet. articles are educational
a hard time being attracted Rather than poo-poo it as and entertaining. Articles
to right-hand bolt guns. some readers who write in on technology advances
— C. Boddington like to do about a gun they in cartridges, triggers,
dislike, I read the article and barrels and so on are really
KALIFORNIA thoroughly enjoyed it. I typi- interesting to me. I enjoyed
Unfortunately, I live in cally do with most every- Eric Poole’s editorial “Wish
The People’s Republik of thing written by Mr. Lamb. List.” My list would include
Kalifornia where we are Then, I looked at the photos seeing performance evalu-
subjected to a 10-day wait once more and vomited just ations on the latest types of
for anything. I don’t mind a a little bit in my mouth. Still, single-shot, hinged breech
waiting period if it will help you guys rule! IMR 3031 QUESTION pistols. Are there any new
prevent a suicide or keep brian boland In Guns & Ammo’s Decem- in .350 Legend? Perhaps an
some hot head from killing Virginia beach, Virginia ber 2019 issue, Dave article on large-bore hunt-
someone just because he’s Emary’s “Blackpowder ing bullets for dangerous
upset. What bothers me, SOUTHPAWS Basics” mentioned that game pistols. I would like
and makes no sense at all On any rifle review, how smokeless powder IMR to wish for a High Standard
is, if I already own pistols, about a one-liner on the 3031 was on the market. Sport King .22 or Ruger
why do I have to wait 10 availability for left-handed I shoot a T/C .50-caliber Mark III standard pistol
days to buy another? shooters? We are 15 to Hawken rifle and an 1858 in .32 Auto with a thinner
orlando la rosa 20 percent of the mar- Remington .44-caliber barrel, such as the one on
castella, california ket. I’m tired of reading revolver made by Pietta. As the Japanese prototype
reviews only to find none it is impossible to get Goex that Bill Ruger pulled his
SALUTE are offered in left-hand blackpowder in Illinois, I use ideas from.
Guns & Ammo is simply the configurations, or that Pyrodex. However, I prefer Mike Purcell
best magazine on the mar- they’re only chambering blackpowder. Would I be Haverhill, Massachusetts
 SHOOTER HEIGHT: 5' 10" SHOOTER HEIGHT: 5' 11"

+ 0.250" COMB HEIGHT

+0.375" COMB HEIGHT

13.25" LENGTH OF PULL 13.50" LENGTH OF PULL

SHOOTER HEIGHT: 5' 10"

+ 0.250" COMB HEIGHT 110 Predator

13.25" LENGTH OF PULL

A L L F O R O N E . F I T F O R A L L.
GET A CUSTOMIZED FIT
R I G H T O F F T H E S H E L F.
Model 110 with AccuFit ª

The Savage 110 family with AccuFit ™

feature interchangeable comb risers
and length of pull inserts for quick
target acquisition and a custom fit in
the field. Learn more about AccuFit
at www.SavageArms.com/AccuFit.
E DITORI AL Ap ril 2020 G&A 15

Nearsighted? Try this.

AGING EYES
ERIC R. POOLE
@GUNSANDAMMOMAG

ANYTIME THE TOPIC of deteriorating vision comes up, and they didn’t realize the uneven gaps surrounding the
Guns & Ammo’s offices are flooded with letters and emails. blurred sight up front. A blurred front sight produces
This condition affects more of you than any other subject. inconsistent accuracy beyond 7 yards. Dot sights require
Some suffer from astigmatism, cataracts, glaucoma, optic horizontal alignment with the front sight as well as even
nerve and retinal disorders, macular degeneration, refrac- gaps around the front sight and leveling on top. This is the

research this issue as it applies Better results can be had

to shooting, but a universal using a dot or fiber optic up
solution doesn’t exist. front and a U-shaped or square
Many shooters experience notch in the rear. This type of
difficulty aiming at around 40 sight is easier and faster to
years of age if nearsighted- align than the three-dot system
ness has set in. Nearsighted because the shooter intuitively
shooters may be able to nests the dot within the out-
see up-close objects clearly lined notch. Blacked-out rear
but lose clarity at distances. sights are also better than the
Examining fellow shooters with three-dot system.
nearsightedness revealed that Though red dots can
many see clearly between a improve speed and accu-
few inches beyond their nose racy, shooters with years of
to an average of 17 inches. experience using traditional
To put nearsightedness in SIG SAUER P365 SAS 9mm $650 iron sights experienced more
perspective, Guns & Ammo difficulty transitioning to a red
invited several test subjects of different experience levels dot until hundreds of repetitions are performed. For near
to participate in an evaluation of available handgun sight sighted shooters, its location at the rear of the slide placed
options. The test evaluated white, three-dot sights; a dot the red dot closer to focus regardless of slide length.
up front and a U-notch in the rear; a dot only up front and An interesting solution for nearsighted shooters is the
a blacked-out rear; fiber optic sights at the front and rear, Meprolight FT Bullseye (meprolight.com, $85 to $150). It
and fiber optic sights at the front only. We also examined is a tritium and fiber-optic-powered green or red optic that
performance using pistols with red dots and the Mepro- appears as a front-sight dot centered within a rear ring. It’s
light FT Bullseye. Our test results will be revealed in an a clever illusion because you are looking at a rear window
upcoming issue. at the back of the sight. Both the dot and ring of the FT
For now, I can say that some of the nearsighted shoot- Bullseye appeared in focus for nearsighted shooters. Avail-
ers with uncorrected vision shot worse with a slide longer able as an accessory that dovetails into the rear sight cut
than 4 inches because the front sight appeared blurry of many makes and model pistols, SIG Sauer has champi-
when the shooter’s arms were extended. This was oned this product by installing it into the slide of
further complicated by flanking dots or U-shaped the P365 SAS.
outlines on the rear, which appeared sharper than With the FT Bullseye, there is no need for a front
the front. The nearsighted shooter’s focus tended sight, so there’s one less snag point. With the P365
PHOTOS: MICHAEL ANSCHUETZ

to be on the rear sight that was better focused, SAS, it is installed within a low cut that levels the
slide top smooth. If you’re a nearsighted shooter,
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Log on to galleryofguns.com, select this firearm, pay a deposit and or innovative sight. The SIG Sauer P365 is the only
it will be at your local gun store in two days. When purchased from
galleryofguns.com, Davidson’s guarantees to repair or replace this pistol offered with a traditional sight setup, a mini
firearm for life.
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G UN RO OM April 2020 G&A 17

“I must admit, IÕve never seen one quite like it.

It has a lot of personality and I’m sure
an interesting backstory.”

IDENTIFICATION
& VALUES
GARRY JAM ES
GARRY.J AM ES @
OUTD OORS G.C OM

example of the standard,

no-frills model. The photos
you sent indicate your 1903
is in pretty good shape,
though, I’d say 70 to 80
SAVAGE MODEL 1903 STANDARD SLIDE ACTION, .22 RF, 80%: $370
percent. According to the
“40th Anniversary Edition
MODEL 1903 SAVAGE RIFLE more reasonable, as I will Blue Book of Gun Values”
Q: Recently, I was able to talk my little brother into letting need to make good with (bluebookofgunvalues.
me have a gun that was passed down to us boys years my little brother! com), a standard grade
after our father died, when we were old enough to appre- B.B 1903 in the condition noted
ciate it. What I know of this gun is a mix of what I learned Fairfax, Iowa above is worth between
when I was a kid and the research I did in anticipation $305 and $370.
of this letter. As the story goes, my dad traded an Army A: The Savage Model 1903
bayonet for it when he was a young man. Apparently, the .22 RF pump-action rifle was PARKERIZED
other guy was eager to part with it because it was missing a relatively popular little 1911 COLT
the magazine. My dad kept it, but absent of the internet piece which, as you note, Q: I inherited this gun
in the 1960s, he had limited resources to locate a maga- was made from 1903 to from a friend 30 years ago.
zine. As luck would have it, he mentioned this in passing 1922. There were a number It was issued to him by
to a man who reloaded his ammo. The gentlemen invited of different grades offered. the U.S. Navy in 1950 or
us to bring the gun in and search through the hundreds Yours appears to be an 1951, in new condition. He
of magazines he had accumulated over the years. I can
still remember sifting through all of them and the joy it THE AUCTION BLOCK
brought to us when we found one. I know the gun to A superb British Vickers Model 1912 machine gun realized the
be a Savage Model 1903. I believe it was manufactured impressive sum of $46,800, including premiums, at the October
23, 2019, Morphy Auctions sale. Manufactured by Vickers Sons
between 1903 and 1916, & Company in Great Britain for the government of El Salvador,
but I understand that Sav- triggerguard. The gun is this desirable piece was chambered in .303 British and is complete
age may have also made in excellent working order, with its original and rare commercial tripod. Condition of the gun
is excellent with the action retaining over 90 percent blue and the
an additional 1,000 1903s however, it has not been water jacket, and 95 percent of the green repainted finish. The
in 1922. I also believe that fired since my dad passed mechanics are fine and the bore exhibits strong rifling. For more
Savage offered a standard in the early ‘70s. Its overall information about this and future sales, contact Morphy Auctions,
morphyauctions.com, 877-968-8880.
grade, as well as other condition is good. I have no
high-grade versions with intention of ever shooting
fancy wood knob-style half or selling this keepsake,
pistol grips and engraving. as it is part of one of a few
As you can see by the pho- vivid memories I have with
tos, this rifle has a knob- my dad. I can still see the
style grip, but no engrav- grin on his face that day
ing. It has a few markings, we found a magazine. I am
including the manufac- interested in knowing any-
turer’s stamp and caliber thing more you can tell me
and the logo stamp on the about this gun and what its
steel buttstock plate with value might be. To me, it
what must be the serial is priceless, but I’m hoping
number (19XXX) behind the the value is something
18 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | Gu n r oo m

installed a trigger shoe. IVER JOHNSON A: Iver Johnson Arms & Issue made between 1908
I’ve put 25 rounds through. “OWL HEAD” Cycle Works was a prolific and 1930. Condition on the
Would you please give me Q: Following the loss of a maker of inexpensive, yet piece is just so-so, but I love
an estimate of its value? parent, some friends were serviceable firearms. Among the full-length, virtually solid
It’s not for sale, but I would cleaning out the house these were scads of different barrel rib and long-spur
like to know. I also enjoy when they came across types of revolvers in varying hammer that were obviously
your reports on Guns & an Iver Johnson five-shot calibers — mostly .22 RF, .32 added by some gunsmith in
Ammo TV. revolver. From the pictures RF and CF, and .38 CF. Your Havana, Cuba, probably in
R.H. you can see it was not revolver looks like a Model the 1920s. I’d love to know
St. Charles, Illinois stored well. There is lots of 1900. This double-action the revolver’s history. If it
corrosion to the plated fin- was manufactured from 1900 was mine, I would get rid of
A: Your pistol is a bit of an ish and some pitting in the to 1941. The hard rubber the electrician’s-tape grips
anomaly. The photos show barrel. They wrote down grips with the owl’s head in favor of original style
what appears to be a Model everything they could see logo adds a bit of a whimsi- panels, give the gun a good
1911 (not a 1911A1) that has and read. They could not cal touch. These guns were cleaning (not to re-blue
been parkerized and has find a caliber indication. offered in blue or nickel- or over-clean it) and find a
had plastic grips added to From the pictures, it seems plate. Calibers were as replacement knob for the
it sometime in its history. I like a .32, possibly. I have noted above. I can’t tell for ejector rod. These should
cannot make out the serial not seen it in person. sure whether or not yours is be fairly easy to find on the
number, but I’m assuming it Can you fill in any details, a .32 or .38. I would take it to internet. Determining value
is some sort of put-together. including possible value? a gunsmith for a check-up, is tough on this one. A no-
I would really have to have I think it is just a personal if it was mine. Value is fairly finish Second Issue Officer’s
it in-hand to tell you much heirloom piece, something low, and this piece could Model is worth about $275
more. I will admit that it the parents owned. It certainly use a bit of TLC. If to $325, but your gun has a
looks like a nice job and would still be nice to know it works, it’s worth around lot of character and if you
deserves further investiga- some details, dating and $75. Broken, value declines take the steps I suggest, I
tion. If you could send some value. I advised them not dramatically. think it could easily bring
sharper photos and the serial to attempt to fire it. another $100 or so. I must
number, we can possibly J.D. CUBAN COLT .38 admit, I’ve never seen one
take things a bit further. Georgia I have a Colt-style six-shot quite like it. It has a lot of
.38-caliber revolver. Its personality and I’m sure an
HOLLYWOOD HARDWARE markings show “Barbeitl interesting backstory.
Savage Model 1907 Auto Pistol, “Road to Perdition” (2002) Habana”, and “officers
Occasionally filmmakers, by design or just happenstance, come up model .38”. It showed up COLT DOUBLE
with a firearm that perfect matches the character wielding it. Such
is the case of a Savage Model 1907 pistol in .32 ACP carried by arch on the southern coast of SHOTGUN
bad-guy “Harlan Maguire” played by Jude Law in the period gangster Guatemala, and since it says Q: I inherited a 12-gauge
opus “Road to Perdition” (2002). This superb little pistol, quite pop- “Habana”, it may have been double-rabbit-eared shot-
ular in its day, appears several times in the film. In the final sequence,
actor Tom Hanks, who plays “Michael Sullivan,” is wounded by manufactured in the Batista/ gun from my grandfather.
Maguire with his 1907. At the time the film appeared, I discussed the pre-Castro era in Cuba. Growing up, it was the only
choice of this gun with Mike Gibbons, then owner of Gibbons Ltd. Even with the taped grips, gun I had. I rarely missed
who supplied the pistol to the production company. Gibbons men-
tioned that they just thought it was not your usual run-of-the-mill it shoots like a dream! Can my target, either a rabbit
handgun and that it looked interesting enough to warrant inclusion you tell me the origin, how or pheasant, though now in
in the movie, which was set in the early 1930s. The pistol was sub- common it is and its price? southeastern Pennsylvania
sequently acquired by NRA Museum Senior Curator Philip Schreier
who kindly loaned it to G&A for this cameo appearance. — G. James F.L-B. they are rare. The markings
Guatemala City, on the barrel are, “Colt
Guatemala P.F.A mfg. Co.” on the
underside of the barrel is a
A: What an interesting number: 9XX. Can you help
revolver. The Colt Officer’s with any information on
Model was available in sev- this gun with history and
eral versions from 1904 until value? I plan to pass this
1949. Calibers were .22 LR, bit of history to my grand-
.32 Colt, .38 Special and .38 son when I feel that I’m too
Long Colt. The barrel mark- old to hunt.
ings on your gun indicate L.E.S
it was most likely a Second Email
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20 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | Gu n r oo m

A: Though your description “FN” on the grips stand for MODEL 1933 HITLERJUGEND FAHRTENMESSER
is a bit sketchy, it sounds “Fabrique Nationale.” It’s a
like you have a Colt Model superb firearm. I purchased
1878 double-barrel shotgun. a .380 model in similar con-
Some 22,690 Model ‘78s dition to yours not too long

M
AU
were manufactured between ago and paid $750 for it,

SE
R
M
1878 and 1889. There were which I thought was fair.

O
D
EL
19
three basic grades ranging

10
.30-30 SAVAGE

,6
.3
SAUER MODEL 38H, 7.65mm, 90%: $325
from a working gun to an

5m
MODEL 99

m
,9
elegant engraved version.

5%
:$
Q: I have read articles

49
Unfortunately, you don’t

0
give me too much to go about the Savage 1899, but
on concerning grade and they never listed the .30-30
condition, so at this point caliber. I have one. my
it’s difficult to put any value grandfather homesteaded
on the piece. If you would in 1895 and must have
kindly send me some pho- bought this gun soon after
tos, I’m sure we can then it was marketed. The serial
NAZI ARMY (HEER) OFFICERÕS DAGGER
figure something out. number is 520XX. I just read
Craig Boddingtons story,
FN MODEL 1910 “1894: A Century and a TWO PISTOLS in 7.65mm (.32 ACP),
.380 AUTO Quarter of Great Guns from AND DAGGERS was later offered. It was
Q: I have had this old gun Savage,” in Guns & Ammo’s Q: I need some help an excellent little pistol
for many years, and I know January issue, so I am inter- on two pistols and two and was quite highly
it is a .380 and shoots very ested my gun’s history. daggers. Data on the regarded. The other
well — no problem there. B.W. smaller gun: “mAuSEr pistol is a Sauer Model
I would like to know the Email – 6,35 246XXX 38H double-action auto.
meaning of the symbols WAFFEnFABrIK A.-G. It was most commonly
and what would be the A: The Savage 99 is one of oBErnDorF A.n.” chambered in .32 ACP
gun’s value. I’d appreciate the best and most successful The larger pistol: “Cal or .380 ACP, but some
any information that you lever-actions ever made. As 7.65”, “456XXX”, with few were also made in
may provide. its name implies, it was intro- a circle containing a .25 ACP. The 38H was
M.M. duced in 1899. The rifle was capital “S” over another manufactured from 1938
Email made in a dizzying number “S” with what looks like to 1945 and was used by
of variations over its century- a capital “u” on top of civilians, the military and
A: You have a Fabrique long lifespan. The ‘99 was them. Both of the knives police. The dagger with
Nationale (FN) Model a follow-on to the Savage have “Solingen” on them. the inset red white and black
1910/22 semiautomatic Models 1892 and 1895. I have enclosed some pic- swastika emblem is a Model
pistol. This excellent little Hundreds of thousands have tures of the pieces that my 1933 Hitler Youth knife. The
repeater, designed by John been produced. The Model son-in-law inherited from other blade is a Nazi Army
Browning, was manufac- 99 came in a considerable his grandfather. They were (Heer) officer dagger. Both
tured beginning in 1910 and number of calibers, includ- brought home when he pistols seem to be in good
then updated in 1922. It was ing .30-30 Winchester, which returned from World War shape. The 1910 Mauser is
offered in 7.65mm (.32 ACP) was introduced in 1900. The II. If you could shed some worth in the $490 to $570
and 9mm Browning Short photos of your example, light on these items as to range, the Sauer 38H runs
(.380 ACP). A .380 FN 1910 though a bit murky, indicate the history and value, it $325 to $375 — a bit more if
was used by Gavrilo Princip you have a relatively early would be greatly appreci- it has waffenamt markings,
to assassinate Austrian example, I’m guessing from ated. an alloy frame or high polish
Archduke Franz Ferdinand the 1920s to the 1930s, C.A. finish. The knives are a bit
and his wife, Sophie — an Model 99 Carbine. It looks James, Ohio more difficult, as their values
act that touched off World used, but not abused. Unfor- vary considerably depend-
War I. Markings on your tunately, the early serial A: The smaller of the two ing on the makers. Unfor-
pistol are standard. The numbers do not necessarily pistols is a Mauser Model tunately, the Hitler Youth
barrel stampings involve run sequentially, so it is hard 1910 in 6.35mm (.25 ACP). knife appears to have been
Belgian/Liege proofmarks to pinpoint an actual date of The larger version of this sharpened, and that affects
and the caliber designation. manufacture. handgun, the Model 1914 value negatively.
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H AND GUNNING Apri l 2 02 0 G&A 23

The Gunsite Option Target does many things well.

SIMPLE TARGET TECH

J EREMY S TAFFORD

I CAN HEAR IT NOW, “Another Gunsite article.” I’m sure The last evolution of the Gunsite target includes the
Eric Poole will love the letters to the editor, but before you addition of a hand holding a clear, outlined revolver in
bang away on that keyboard, hear me out. the lower corner of the target. While some may scoff at
Gunsite Academy has trained tens of thousands of peo- this, I think that as armed good guys we should always be
ple over the last 43 years, and they training to shoot at a defined threat,
Gunsite’s Option
know a thing or two about how to Target (right)
especially if we’re adding humanoid
maximize square-range training. improved on the API shapes to our training. Everybody
But even Lt. Col. Jeff target (left). talks tough about how they’d
Cooper realized that rather be “tried by 12 rather
this was limiting. than carried by six,” but I’ve
There are several seen the stress of a federal
shoot houses on the trial break good men. No
Gunsite property, and matter how right you may
force-on-force and sim- be, facing the possibility of
ulator work comprises losing everything is incredi-
a great deal of the bly stressful. This was a wise
higher-level curriculum. addition by Gunsite.
That being said, there’s Now that we have the
a huge square-range basics of the target under-
component that can’t stood, let’s talk about the
be ignored and must logic and experience that
be conducted effi- went into the design. Paint-
ciently. Whether you’re ing targets different shades
a Gunsite instructor or of camouflage isn’t some-
a local trainer putting your first class through, 3-D targets thing that Cooper came up with one night at the Sconce.
are great, as is putting t-shirts on targets. But when you’ve It’s a technique that’s been around for years and it works
got 25 students on the line, efficiency is vital to training. whether you’re shooting with optics or irons, or using a
Enter the Gunsite Option Target. Originally designed rifle, pistol or shotgun. The addition of a pattern on the
by Cooper from his earlier American Pistol Institute (API) target makes it difficult to find a precise aiming point and
target of the late 1970s, the current Gunsite Option Target forces the shooter to focus on their sighting fundamentals
is a square border humanoid measuring 18 inches by 30 throughout the process of taking a shot. It also demands
inches, the same size as the official International Practical that the shooter be aware of where the sights are on the
Shooting Confederation (IPSC) cardboard target featuring target rather than just cutting a bullseye in half. It makes
both body and head zones, hence the name “Option.” consistency on the sights challenging. If you’re the type of
The humanoid target overlays three different shades of shooter who prides oneself on shooting tiny little groups,
tan and brown in a camouflage pattern to subdue the bor- then these targets are sure to humble you.
ders and mute the scoring zones. Cooper’s original targets As mentioned earlier, the actual scoring zones are
had a busier camo pattern and larger, circular target rings, shaped to approximate the areas on the target that have
but the target has since evolved. The current iteration, the best chance of stopping a determined attacker. The
which was approved by Cooper before his passing in 2006, lines are faint, which, in conjunction with the irregular
PHOTOS: ALFREDO RICO

has a realistic 8-inch by 8-inch triangle in the upper chest pattern on the target, makes looking at the target an
area and a trapezoid in the head area. These scoring zones exercise in futility. With iron sights, this forces the shooters
are lightly outlined on the target, making them difficult to focus back on to the front sight. With a red dot, it keeps
see beyond a few yards. (I’ll explain why this is important the shooter looking at the entire zone rather than at a fixed
later in the article.) point. (Think upper chest.) Both of those adaptations are
24 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | h And Gu nni nG

advantageous to a shooter like a handgun printed on

who wants to get good at them is that you can fold
defensive shooting. that threat away making a
Self-defense training series of shoot and no-
is more than focusing on shoot targets. This will
bullseye-centric marksman- encourage students to
ship skills. I do not slight use their decision-making
shooters who use bullseyes skills. It’s not a substitute
to hone their defensive for scenario-based, force-
skills. I’m simply acknowl- on-force training, but it’s a
edging that there are good great first step in introduc-
reasons to incorporate ing decision making to a
targets other than bullseyes square-range environment.
into a rounded training A student of the serious
regimen. use of firearms should make
Like the Gunsite target, Circa 1976, Jeff Cooper compares a standard cardboard silhouette sure that they are seeking
option targets also lend target next to his first camouflage option target in Arizona. training outside of a square
themselves well to being range. That being said,
modified on the range. You can fold them into smaller, the square range is still an important component of any
more challenging shoot zones, and layer them to create training program and remains one of the best options for
more challenging shoot- and no-shoot targets. For those developing and maintaining fundamental firearms skills.
who are looking to be economical, this works on several Making that training as efficient and challenging as pos-
levels because it also allows for the target to be re-folded sible is something that all shooters should strive for. I’ve
so that previously shot portions can be rotated with clean found that the Gunsite Academy’s Option Target is one of
portions of the target. the best targets available to that end. They’re available at
Another option with targets that have a defined threat gunsitestore.com for about $0.50 each.
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G UN TE CH Ap ril 2020 G&A 27

Streak Visual Ammunition lets you

see your bullet in flight

RICHARD N AN CE

SEE NG IS BELIEVING
WHEN SHOOTING A PAPER TARGET AT DISTANCE, The important detail to remember is that Streak ammu-
it can be difficult to tell whether or not your rounds hit nition is non-incendiary. It produces no heat, which makes
without walking downrange to confirm. This problem is them safe for indoor ranges and places where tracers
exacerbated in diminished light. Of course, flashlights can would constitute a fire hazard. Unlike tracer rounds, Streak
assist in illuminating the target before firing and examining Visual jacketed-hollowpoint (JHP) projectiles paint a
the target afterword, but wouldn’t it be awesome to see one-way path to help keep a threat from pinpointing your
the path of a bullet as it travels toward the target? Now, location in darkness. Initially, when shooting Streak Visual
thanks to Streak Visual Ammunition, you can do just that Ammunition, I saw little more than my pistol sights and
without the dangers of using incendiary tracers. the flash of the muzzle. I was so focused on the sights that
With Streak, an luminescent dot applied to the bullet’s I couldn’t see the red streak illuminating the bullet’s path.
base is illuminated by powder flash when fired. The result When I focused more on the target and a little less on the
is a red streak that’s visible to anyone within 30-degrees of sights, I instantly saw the path of each bullet fired and
the shooter’s point of view. Not only is it fun, this ammuni- watched them impact the target.
tion can be beneficial from a training standpoint. Receiv- Streak Visual Ammunition is available in calibers
ing immediate visual feedback as ranging from .380 ACP to .45 Colt.
to where your round impacted the Currently, the cost ranges between
target (or where it missed) helps us to $13 and $26 for a box of 20 rounds.
make necessary adjustments to our A 200-round box of “total metal”
grip, aim, and trigger press to rectify 9mm with 124-grain projectiles
the problem and save time walking sells for about $115. The econom-
PHOTOS: MICHAEL ANSCHUETZ

past the firing line. It could also save ically priced total-metal rounds are
the day in a deadly force encoun- ideal for training, while the jack-
ter. For instance, if you saw where eted hollow-point rounds are the
the first round missed, you could intended for personal defense. Visit
Unlike an incendiary tracer projectile, nothing
compensate by putting subsequent but the powder burns with Streak. Flash acti- Ammo Incorportated at ammoinc.
rounds on target to stop the threat. vated paint is on the base of the bullet. com for more information.
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RI F L E S & GLAS S Apri l 2 02 0 G&A 29

Understanding the unrecognized problem.

FIXING PARALLAX
T OM B ECKST RAN D

EVER HEAD OUT TO DO SOME SHOOTING and notice possible. If the reticle becomes fuzzier, turn the diopter in
that your rifle’s point of impact is slightly different than the opposite direction.
your last range visit? It’s usually not a big difference, but Never stare at the reticle while turning the diopter. The
it’s also not uncommon for the zero to wander anywhere human eye tries to focus whatever is in front of it, so as the
from one-half to one-inch. reticle’s focus is changing, so is the eye. Staring at the reti-
I blamed the optic mounting system cle while adjusting its focus results in a
for this issue for years, as do many poorly set-up and out-of-focus optic.
shooters I know. I figured the scope The number one cause of parallax in
moved in the rings a tiny bit or the a scope is improper or incomplete reti-
rings or base shifted some. While all cle focus. When the reticle isn’t in focus,
those potential issues are somewhat this means the eyepiece is looking
valid (especially when using poorly either in front of, or behind the second
made equipment), the far more likely focal plane for the incoming image.
scenario is the presence of parallax The reality is that it needs to be looking
inside the scope. precisely at the second focal plane.
Any riflescope has two functional An indicator that there is still some
optical components: The eyepiece parallax error in any riflescope is the
and everything else. The “everything difficulty knowing when the reticle
$900

else” is the scope forward of the is most in focus. The ability to spin
power adjustment ring. As the image enters the the diopter a half-turn and see no change in
m
8x50m

scope through the objective lens, it is manipu- reticle focus likely means there will be parallax in
RGE 3-1

lated, focused and dumped into the first focal the scope with the resulting wandering zero. The
plane located right underneath the turrets. The good news is getting that last little bit of parallax
ELL FO

erector assembly takes the image, magnifies it and out of the scope and eliminating a wandering zero
BUSHN

focuses it into the second focal plane located at the is not overly difficult. Start by focusing the reticle
power-adjustment ring. The eyepiece works like a as described above. Point the scope at a neutral
microscope and allows the shooter’s eye see what’s background, look at the reticle for a few seconds,
in the second focal plane. look away, and adjust the diopter. Repeat until
There are two optical components that need the reticle is in focus.
to be focused together to totally eliminate Now it’s time for step two. Put up a target
parallax. The first is the image coming onto the with a clearly defined and small aiming point.
scope. This is easy to do because all it requires A 1-inch orange or bright yellow dot on a
is looking through the scope while turning the piece of cardboard (or Hornady’s peel-and-
side-focus turret until the image is tack-sharp. stick target) work nicely. Use the side-focus knob
Once that image is in focus, it is perfectly located to get the target sharp. Bag the gun in place so it
in the second focal plane, where the eyepiece is stays on target without any human support. Without
ready for it. putting your face on the stock, look through the
Most of us have learned that one of the first steps scope and move your head up and down and side
in setting up a scope involves focusing the reticle. to side. If there is no reticle movement relative to the
Point the scope at a light-colored background, look target, there is no parallax in the scope. If there is
PHOTOS: MARK FINGAR

at the reticle for 2 to 3 seconds and then look away. reticle movement, make a 1⁄8- to 1/4-turn adjustment
Next, turn the diopter a half-turn and then look of the diopter and perform the side-to-side and
at the reticle for another 2 to 3 seconds. This part up-and-down head movement again. Continue to
is just like an eye test. If the reticle gets sharper, make small adjustments to the diopter until there
keep going in that direction until it is as sharp as is no reticle movement, even when you move your
30 G &A Ap ril 2020 | ri f l es & G l Ass

head around behind the scope.

It should require no more than two full revolutions of the
diopter to eliminate the parallax using this supplementary
method. If you find yourself struggling to eliminate that
last tiniest bit of reticle movement, know that some scopes The method to
remove all parallax
will have a small amount of parallax no matter what you from a scope is to
do. I teach a handful of precision rifle courses a year, and first use the side-
out of 10 students, one or two focus turret to keep
the image sharp.
will always have some parallax,
even with both myself and
the student working with the
scope. That statistic covers
what I’d call “professional-
grade” scopes. Any optic
made in the Philippines or
China will have a much higher
incidence of permanent paral-
lax. Go ahead and get mad at
me, but them’s the facts.
Performing small focus
changes to the diopter while
keeping the target image
in-focus is the best way to get
both target and reticle focused
simultaneously. Once both focal
planes align, there is no parallax
in the system, so variations in
head placement will not cause
the point of impact to move.
Any shooter that takes the time
to do the above will likely see
slightly smaller groups because
he’s successfully eliminated one The final step to
more variable from the shooting equation. remove all parallax
from the scope is to
Of course, this is all just mumbo jumbo without a way make small diopter
to check. The check is simple and requires 20 rounds and adjustments while
a 100-yard range. Before using the above process, put 10 the shooter moves
his head around
1-inch dots on a piece of paper and put the target up at 100 while looking
yards. Get into a good shooting position from the prone or through the scope.
shooting bench and fire one round at the first dot. Stand up Do this until no
parallax remains.
and come completely off the rifle, then get back behind the
rifle, move to the second dot, and fire one round. Repeat
this process until you’ve shot one round at all 10 dots.
Go through the steps outlined above to eliminate all
parallax and then conduct the drill a second time. You’ll
find the rounds land more often in the same relative loca-
tion than before. Overlaying all the round impacts will also
show a smaller composite group size.
This exercise might sound like a whole lot of effort for
not much return, and that’s fine. However, there are a lot of
shooters out there that have spent their whole lives think-
ing the scope or mounting hardware was faulty because
their zeros moves around a little. This exercise shows that’s
not true and also helps tighten up groups. If you spend
a lot of time at the bench, or just like to hit small targets
consistently, I promise this exercise is worth the effort.
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B U L LE T BOAR D Ap ril 2020 G&A 33

Effects of shape at the tail end.

D AV E EM ARY

BOATTAIL vs. FLAT BASE

IN THE SHOOTING WORLD, much has been said through harder to get good results with than others. To a great
the years about reloading. What load gives us the best extent, these differences center on what happens in the
performance, what bullet works the best for an application, barrel and at the muzzle, and how forgiving or sensitive a
and on and on. It’s not often we get an opportunity to visu- type of projectile is.
alize and verify or debunk what was an opinion or a hunch. The test series done by Guns & Ammo TV at EMRTC
Tom Beckstrand recently wrote about a test series that illustrated significant differences in the behavior of a
was done by Guns & Ammo TV at the New Mexico Tech- boattail and a flat-base projectile as they exited the
affiliated Energetic Materials Research and Testing Center barrel. Tests were conducted using a Thompson/Center
(EMRTC). Beckstrand’s work centered on what happened Icon chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor. A Hornady 6.5mm
when a bullet in flight struck a raindrop. As the resulting 140-grain ELD-M was used for the boattail projectile,
high-speed video showed, it blew away a lot of conjecture and a Swift 6.5mm 140-grain A-Frame was used for the
and opinion that has been flat base. Both projectiles
around for a long time. SCHLIEREN PHOTOGRAPHY were shot under the same
Another test that was Before discussing the results of the test, let’s understand what conditions at as close to
done during this time was Schlieren photography is. Schlieren photography uses collimated the same muzzle velocity as
light, magnifying lenses, a knife edge or slit, and a high-speed cam-
an investigation with the era to photograph the fluid flow around an object. What the camera standard deviation allowed.
same high-speed Schlieren sees is the different densities in the fluid flow around the object. The two were shot with the
photography setup, and In the testing done at EMRTC, the projectile was fired between the muzzle of the barrel at the
lenses in the center of the collimated light field. The high-speed
the difference between the camera looks through the magnifying lenses and records what hap- edge of the Schlieren pho-
muzzle-exit behavior of a pens. During this test, the camera was recording at 90,000 frames tography system’s field of
boattail versus a flat-base per second. For the projectile traveling at 2,700 feet per second view so that the projectile
(fps), an image was taken every .36 inches of travel.
projectile. could be seen exiting the
There has been a lot SCHLIEREN SETUP muzzle, as well as several
said over the years about projectiles lengths of initial
the superiority of boattail free flight. The muzzle
projectiles, and that flat- was then moved slightly
base projectiles are “old CAMERA
outside the field of view so
school.” There are differ- that late-time interaction
ences in the two. Anyone between the projectiles
PROJECTILE LIGHT
PHOTOS: MARK FINGAR

who has spent much time and the muzzleblast cloud

KNIFE
reloading different types of EDGE could be observed.
projectiles knows that there The images from the
are peculiarities of different COLLIMATING | MAGNIFYING LENSES high-speed camera of the
designs, and some can be two projectiles were paired
34 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | b ul l e t b oA r d
BOATTAIL FLAT BASE
to show what was happen- — between 8,000 and
FIGURE 1
ing at the same point in 10,000 fps. These gases
time (PIT). This was done travel past the projec-
by matching up the images tile to differing degrees
based on the PIT that the depending on many
projectiles first appeared at factors, creating what is
the muzzle. called a “reverse flow” on
the projectile. This reverse
What Was observed Sev- flow occurs for a very short
eral things were apparent distance of travel — 6 to
in the Schlieren images of 12 inches.
the two different projec- FIGURE 2
This reverse flow can
tiles. The first observation have detrimental effects
in both bullet videos was of on the projectile and is
the gases from the barrel the primary reason for “tip
ahead of the projectile. This off,” or disturbance of the
is primarily attributed to the projectile attitude at the
air in the barrel being com- muzzle. It is largely this
pressed and pushed out by phenomena that leads to
the projectile. The gasses what we refer to as the
are observed long before time for the projectile to
the projectile appears. FIGURE 3 “go to sleep.”
The compressed air is In the images taken
seen much sooner with during the Guns & Ammo
the boattail than with the TV test, we see that the
flat base. This indicates boattail projectile is
that there were likely some entirely overtaken and
propellant gases getting surrounded by the pro-
past the boattail before the pellant gases. This is not
projectile seals the bore. In the case with the flat base.
each of the images seen, It is never completely
the boattail is on the left FIGURE 4 overtaken by the propel-
and the flat base on the lant gases. The flat base
right. The first emergence on the right still has its
of the air and propellant nose protruding from the
gases is six frames sooner propellant gases and the
with the boattail than with shapes of the blast clouds
the flat base. (Figure 1) are completely different.
Further indication that This suggests that the
propellant gases got past boattail bullet allows more
the boattail before it sealed high velocity gases to flow
the bore were also appar- around it in the reverse
ent at the point each projectile exited the bore. As you can flow stage than the flat-base projectile. (Figure 3)
see in these images, the muzzleblast cloud for the boattail An additional test was done with the barrel approxi-
is noticeably bigger and further ahead for the boattail than mately 5 inches out of the field of view of the Schlieren
the flat base. Since the volume of air in the barrel is the system in order to look at when the two projectiles
same for each bullet, the extra gas observed in the boattail cleared the influence of the muzzleblast. These images
images can only be propellant gases. (Figure 2) show the flat base clearing the muzzleblast quite a bit
Before we discuss the next observations, we have to sooner than the boattail. In fact, the video shows it takes
review what happens in the first few inches of projectile five frames longer for the boattail projectile to clear the
flight after it exits the barrel. The propellant gases behind muzzleblast. The flat-base projectile will clearly be influ-
the projectile are still at quite a high pressure, approxi- enced less by the muzzleblast than the boattail projectile.
mately 10,000 pounds per square inch (psi), depending (Figure 4)
on the projectile weight, specific propellant and barrel
length. These gases, when initially released at the muzzle, What does this all mean? The Schlieren images show that
are travelling for a very short period of time and distance some propellant gases blow past the boattail projectile
 b ul let b oard | Ap ril 2020 G& a 35

before it seals the bore. .308 180-GR.

.300 BLK 120-GR.
SIG SAUER ELITE HUNTING
tion of this lift force is very
This can have adverse NORMA BONDSTRIKE SOLID COPPER short, but it can have a
.308 175-GR. .300 BLK 125-GR. .300 BLK 125-GR.
effects on the projectile. SIERRA MATCHKING SIERRA TIPPED SIERRA MATCHKING significant effect on the
MATCHKING
The gases that travel past projectile’s flight perfor-
the projectile are very hot mance. This can cause
and travelling very fast. larger groups and contrib-
Despite how brief this ute significantly to the time
propellant gas blowby is, it takes a projectile to go to
it can result in non-uniform sleep. Again, I’m not saying
deformation of the projec- this will always occur, but
tile, or flame cutting, of the the potential is definitely
jacket. This can result in there. This dynamic condi-
erratic flight of the projec- tion does not exist with the
tile and is the cause of the flat-base projectile.
troubling fliers we have all
seen in our shooting groups the bottom line As you
Boattail Projectiles Flat-Based Projectiles
from time to time. I’m not can see from the images
saying these things always happen, but it does create the and the analysis, the boattail projectile has much greater
potential for them to happen. potential for undesirable things to happen. The boattail
Perhaps the most important takeaway from this test is projectile has a greater sensitivity to factors not being
the response of the boattail projectile versus the flat-base perfect, either in the barrel or at the muzzle. The boat-
at the muzzle’s exit. The larger and longer-lasting reverse tail projectile would be more sensitive to a large throat,
flow on the boattail projectile can have a significant effect throat wear, a damaged crown or worn rifling at the muz-
on its performance. With the sloping boattail, the reverse zle. If you have a rifle that won’t shoot very good groups
flow can produce a lift force on the boattail causing yaw with a boattail projectile, try a flat-base bullet and see if it
and essentially making the projectile wobble. The dura- results in better groups.
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L O C K , S TOCK & BAR R EL Apri l 2 02 0 G&A 37

Is it a legitimate tool in a fight or gimmick?

STROBING LIGHTS
SGM KYLE LAMB [RET.]
V IKIN GTACT ICS.C OM

I SAT BACK AND STARED as the tactical wizardry on TV what is needed is a bright light with a focused beam. This
was at its finest. It was a commercial for a light called the keeps the light on your target and doesn’t cause the user
“Gladius.” This behemoth was really the first of its kind to be blinded by the excessive flood that can bounce off
featuring a slightly protected tail cap that could be twisted of cover and concealment.
from normal operation to strobe mode. The surprising Probably the best example of a focused-beam tactical
thing about the commercial light is SureFire’s Scout light
was the message: “If you use (surefire.com). New Scout lights
this strobing light against an offer 500 lumens from a single-
aggressor, they will become battery-powered LED, while
disoriented and unable to two-battery models produce
continue their attack!” Wow. 1,000 lumens of output. Both
As a U.S. Army commando at types of lights can be had with a
the time, I had to try one. How remote momentary/constant-on
easy would it be? I could fly switch assembly and RM45 off-
across the world, kick in a ter- set mount for $479. Either way,
rorist’s door, set my light to the Scout lights are very bright and
“makes bad guys quit” setting, have very focused beams. But
and quickly get back to kissing what about a strobe?
ladies and babies. If you want to disorient your
A couple of weeks later I had opponent, the strobe may or
my hands on this magic light. may not have the desired effect.
With all of the lights off inside our As I said, the commercial I saw
Special Forces team room, the suggested that the actor was
fight was on. I grabbed another Originally unable to congregate verbs
soldier and attempted to priced at more once the Gladius’ strobe was
than $200, the Night-
control his movements. When Ops Gladius debuted in 2004 and in his eyes. In the real world,
he resisted, I pushed the light’s offered 100-lumens and a strobe mode. I have never found a man,
activation switch and strobed women or child impressed or con-
his eyes from his bad-breath distance. It didn’t take long for fused by a strobing light. If I sound negative, you are abso-
me to realize that he was unaffected. lutely correct. This was a major brand hyping its product
After he twisted me into a pretzel, I felt it was my turn to to sell you a new tool that you couldn’t get with any other
be neutered by the light. My lab rat hadn’t acted like he constant-on light. The ad was untrue. Bad guys didn’t pee
should have, so I had to see how it worked and become their pants. So, if strobes don’t cause immediate debilita-
the attacker. As before, the light did nothing but make me tion of an intruder, suspect or terrorist, why do many of us
fight harder. With the strobe giving me the feeling that I was still carry lights with a strobe feature?
fighting in a 1980’s dance club, it was actually kinda fun. The Many manufacturers still offer products with strobes as
Gladius was fine as a light, but its strobe wasn’t magical. a feature. The fact of the matter is that strobes do help in
Let us fast forward to modern day, 2020. Why in the a tactical environment when you need to cover move-
world would someone still want to use a strobe in a tactical ment, evacuate your family down a hall, or disorient the
PHOTO: MICHAEL ANSCHUETZ

situation? What advantages are gained or lost with the use aggressor to your actual distance and movements.
of this feature? It appears on a product offered by almost When the strobe is activated, your eyes struggle to adjust
every brand of light maker. I am a fan of an exceptionally to the changing light. Some are bright, then not. Your eyes
bright light. But some in the fight-at-night business believe can adjust quickly, but not as fast as a strobing flashlight.
that you can have a light that is too bright. I disagree with The effect allows the user to move forward or back with
that statement. I think a more applicable way of explaining little-to-no awareness of the aggressor. Of course, if you start
38 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | l oc k, s to ck & b A r re l

SUREFIRE UDR DOMINATOR $1,370

at 50 yards and move to 5 run in front of the man with
yards, they’ll know, but if you the strobe you will light up
are at 50 yards and move to like Sasquatch at Burning
40 yards, the bad guy will Man, so be careful where
likely not be able to assess you plan to move, and don’t
PLR-A STILETTO $109 PLR-B STILETTO PRO $229
your movement reliably, step in front of other team
especially if the strobe is members’ muzzle.
extremely bright. If you don’t operate in
Another benefit of using For 2020, SureFire offers a strobe func- DBR GUARDIAN $179
a team environment or a
strobing lights is that they tion on the 2,400-lumen UDR Dominator; family fire team, you can still
can cover lateral move- the 650-lumen PLR-A Stiletto and PLR-B be effective with a strobe
Stiletto Pro; 1000-lumen PLR-B Stiletto
ment. If the individual with Pro; as well as the 1,000-lumen DBR during your movement.
the light moves left or Guardian hand-held lights. However, your choices are
right, it will be immediately limited. Activate the strobe
identifiable. If the person with the light starts strobing and move slightly to the rear or slightly forward. If you need
downrange, your teammates will be able to move across to move across a hallway, set your light on the ground with
or retrograde down a hallway without any indication to the the strobe in the right direction so you can get you and
person with the light strobing in their face. your family across and out of harm’s way as fast as possible.
The brighter the lights, the better. A good plan of action The strobe is a tool and can be an effective tool. Just be
to move successfully is to have at least two teammates with aware that it will not degrade someone’s ability to fight,
strobes. One activates the strobe while the rest of the team but also remember that it may confuse them long enough
moves where they need to. Once they are in place, the sec- to allow you to move to a position of advantage or safety.
ond individual who has already changed positions starts to Strobes are nice to have, especially if you are trying to
strobe down range. The first strobing officer, soldier or gun- move you or your family to safety. They are also good for
toting civilian can now turn off their strobe and scamper to when you are doing The Robot at a company dance party,
catch up with the team. It’s important to mention that if you but I digress.
 D O M I N AT E T H E M O M E N T

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40 G&A Apr il 2020

R AN G E BAG Real Avid AR15

Armorer’s Master Kit

THE RIGHT TOOLS

MODULARITY makes the AR platform perfect for
those who prefer to do things themselves. Real
Avid’s AR15 Armorer’s Master Kit ($250,
realavid.com) contains every-
thing you need to build or
personalize an AR. Inside are
the punches and picks you’d
expect to find, but even these
details are optimized. The
two-sided picks are made
of plastic, meaning they
won’t mar a gun’s finish. angles.
And like every tool in this The
kit, these tools snap into smart-
its own slot in the case. fit vice
The 10-pin punch set fea- block
tures the typical assortment secures the
of tips and are organized in lower receiver into
two plastic sleeves. The roll-pin a bench vice. It is
starter features a flat side, enabling it inserted into the mag-
to rest flush against the lower receiver when azine well and tightened
removing or installing the bolt catch. There’s a by turning the handle on the
plastic non-marring punch, as well as plastic twee- bottom of the unit. The knurled
zers labeled “Pin Alignment Tool.” They will securely texture helps lock it securely into the
hold any AR-15 pin. jaws of a vice. This is an excellent tool
In addition to a rubber-handled handguard removal tool, for cleaning, maintaining or modifying
a torque wrench displaying a graduated scale up to 200 lower receiver components. It can even
foot-pounds (ft.-lbs.) is supplied. It even lists the appropri- be used inverted for pistol grip removal
ate torque for tightening a muzzlebrake (30 ft.-lbs.); castle and installation. The master bench block is a brilliant
nut (40 ft.-lbs.); and barrel nut (30 to 80 ft.-lbs.). It attaches device slotted to accommodate the bolt, front sight, upper
to the kit’s master wrench, a combination tool that serves and lower receivers, as well as the charging handle. It’s the
as a barrel nut wrench, castle nut wrench and a hammer. perfect third hand to brace a specific component. The bot-
For the hammer, there are rubber, polymer and brass tom of the block contains pin storage and the perimeter is
heads that can be screwed to the master wrench. The magnetized to capture pins once punched out.
handle stores replacement heads of each. The Real Avid kit also contains a pivot lock, designed to
When working on any part, the better you can brace it, prop the upper receiver over the lower receiver. There’s
the cleaner your work will be. The AR15 Armorer’s Master the obligatory front sight adjuster, which contains both a
Kit contains a lug-lock vice block, a smart-fit vice block, four- and five-prong interface. A pivot pin tool automat-
and a master bench block. Each securely hold your AR-15 ically retains the spring and detent and acts as a “slave
PHOTO: MICHAEL ANSCHUETZ

components in place for easier maintenance. pin” for easy installation.

The lug-lock vise block is designed to secure an AR-15 The Real Avid AR15 Armorer’s Master Kit comes with
upper into a bench vise, while the vice’s star chamber lock- an instruction manual, as well as a full color, step-by-step
ing lugs line up with the barrel’s. This, combined with the photographic guide to performing the “top 18 mods” to
supplied retaining pins and the upper receiver lock-knob, any AR-15. For more information or to purchase, visit
enables us to secure the upper receiver in place at various realavid.com. — R. Nance
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42 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0

W HEN Guns & Ammo’s Editor-in-Chief

Eric Poole asked what I wanted on my
G&A Christmas wish list a few months ago,
I didn’t hesitate. The answer is always the
same: a new Colt Python. Little did I know
that my wish had already been granted.
After years of engineering, Colt was then
just weeks away from announcing what has
been the most sought-after reintroduction to
their product line. On December 4, 2019, Colt
Senior VP Paul Spitale, Marketing & Product
Management Director Justin Baldini and
pro-shooter and LE Sales Manager Mark Redl
collectively announced the Python’s return
during a small, media event at the Gunsite
Academy in Paulden, Arizona.
 April 2020 G& A 43

DOES THE NEW SNAKE GUN LIVE

UP TO THE LEGEND?
BY KEITH WOOD | PHOTOS BY MARK FINGAR
44 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | co lt p y th on

the python’s fully adjust-

able rear notch sight was
redesigned allowing engi-
neers to strengthen the
revolver’s top strap.

LIKE THE NEW PYTHON, the original Colt Python became highly sought-after. By 2010, used
wasn’t rushed to market. First conceptual- Type: DA/SA revolver values spiked between $3,000 and $8,000.
Cartridge: .357 Magnum/.38 Special
ized as a precision target revolver in 1953, it That same year, the popular TV series “The
Capacity: 6 rds.
would be two years later when the original Overall Length: 11.5 in.
Walking Dead” debuted with its lead char-
snake gun was finally built by the hands of Height: 5.5 in. acter “Rick Grimes” played by actor Andrew
Colt gunsmith and then-Superintendent of Weight: 2 lbs., 14 oz. (tested) Lincoln prominently carrying 6-inch stain-
Manufacturing Al DeJohn. Material: Stainless steel, forged less Python. It was one of the show’s best
On June 2, 1955, the first production Grips: Laminated walnut, supporting characters and surely contrib-
checkered
Colt Python models left the factory and Trigger: 8 lbs., 8 oz. (DA); uted to its demand. This snake gun fever
5 lbs., 7 oz. (SA) (tested)
launched what still remains one of the even drove up the values of non-Python
Safety: Transfer bar
most iconic double-action revolvers of Finish: Polished stainless
Colts including the Anaconda, Boa, Cobra,
all time. Three-hundred and seventeen Sights: Red ramp (front); Diamondback, King Cobra and Viper.
I-frame Pythons were shipped during the adj. notch (rear) The shooting world hungered for a
MSRP: $1,500
first six months at a retail price of $125. Python. To meet the demand, Colt worked
Manfacturer: Colt, 800-962-2658,
(That’s $1,134 in today’s dollars.) colt.com on its rebirth. Today, the Python is back
Pythons quickly earned a reputation for and it’s built using stainless steel materials
being accurate, easy to cock for single- with your choice of either a 41/4- or 6-inch
action shooting, and possessing wonderful triggers. The over- barrel. For this evaluation, Colt sent Guns & Ammo one of the
whelming majority of Pythons were chambered in .357 Magnum, initial 6-inch production examples.
although Target models were produced in .38 Special. Other The new Python is in many ways just like the original, though
chamberings saw limited production over the years with examples there are some meaningful departures. Comparing appearances, the
in .22 LR and .22 WMR, in addition to factory prototypes in .41 Python almost mirrors its antecedent. Holsters and speed loaders
Magnum, .22 Hornet and even .40 S&W! By the time the 1990s designed for the old Pythons will fit just fine with the current ver-
arrived, the gun-buying public increasingly favored semiautomat- sion. The lines are essentially the same.
ics. Like many of the great six-guns, Python production moved to Most of the differences are hidden beneath the side plate. Like
the Custom Shop in 1997 and all but ceased in 2004. a high-end watch that needs maintenance and lubrication every
“Absence makes the heart five years, the original Python’s
grow fonder,” as the saying goes. BUY IT NOW! action was complicated when
log on to galleryofguns.com, select this firearm, pay a deposit and it will be
The revolver that saw insufficient at your local gun store in two days. When purchased from galleryofguns.com, compared to its contemporar-
Davidson’s guarantees to repair or replace this firearm for life.
demand just a few years prior ies. Colt decided to simplify
 colt pyt hon | Ap ril 2020 G& A 45

In addition to the full underlug, the stainless steel barrel on the the barrel is a one-piece forging given a raised crown. the front
new python maintains the original’s signature vented rib. ramp sight can be interchanged with current cobra front sights.

the internals of this new Python and remove nine parts from the
original lockwork. This simplification not only made the Python
easier to make in Colt’s modern manufacturing environment, it
also allowed the company to keep costs down. And in case you
are wondering, the Python retains the use a leaf mainspring rather
than a coil, which should come as a relief to purists.
Not all of the design changes were internal. As great as the
early Pythons were, they gained a reputation for being fragile
when subjected to hard use with magnum loads. This wasn’t such
a big deal in the 1950s and ’60s when most shooters were using
light .38 Specials to shoot bullseye matches, but it became a real
concern for law enforcement and shooters who ran the guns the cylinder has been chamfered and fluted. there are also long
hard. Jerry Kuhnhausen’s “Colt Double Action: A Shop ManualÓ cylinder-notch leads, contributing to its smooth double action.
(1988) contains more than one photo of snake guns with blown
top straps. To address this, Colt engineers redesigned the rear rather than injection molded from powdered metal. The trigger’s
sight, which allowed them to beef up the top strap significantly. face is also serrated longitudinally and the wide hammer spur
According to Colt, there is 30 percent more steel above the cylin- horizontally. The single-action trigger on our sample required 5
der on the new Python than there was on the original guns. The pounds, 7 ounces of pressure with a little evidence of creep.
steel used in the Python’s construction takes advantage of modern The star of this show is the 81/2-pound double-action trigger.
metallurgy. The 410-series stainless steel used on Pythons since It is smooth as glass. I have a few of the vaunted pre-war Smith
1983 has been replaced by a stronger and more corrosion- & Wesson revolvers, including a First Model Hand Ejector, and
resistant alloy. The new Python is allegedly stronger than ever. none of them can best the double-action trigger on the Python.
The lines of the Python are a close facsimile of the original, Editor Eric Poole indicated that the trigger on his original Python
but feature a glossier polished stainless-steel finish rather than feels lighter and a bit slicker than this new model, but I didn’t have
a brushed look. One of the most striking visual details of the one on hand so I borrowed a 1990s-era Anaconda. The single-
Python has always been its vent-rib barrel. Producing the rib action trigger on the Anaconda was a bit better at 41/2 pounds,
cuts costs money, but Colt didn’t skimp by substituting a sleeved but the double-action trigger measured more than 12 pounds and
barrel. The barrel is made from wasn’t nearly as silky as this.
a one-piece forging, which bears The beauty of a really good
mentioning: Timing a barrel’s double-action trigger is that it goes
threads so that the sights run north a long way in promoting a true
and south takes time and adds
cost, which is why we are seeing
so many companies move to using
two-piece barrels.
There is a full underlug on the
barrel which shrouds the ejector
rod and adds some weight to atten-
uate recoil. The crown is protected
by a raised ring at the muzzle.
the trigger and hammer spur
Both the trigger and hammer are both feature serrations for
machined from billet stainless steel touchpoints.
46 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | co lt p y th on

A MUST READ
Historical information for this
article was largely sourced from
Gurney Brown’s excellent book
“Colt’s Python: King of the Seven
Serpents.” Brown has written
extensively on collectible Colt
revolvers and this, his latest,
is dedicated to the Python.
This 304-page full-color coffee
table-style treatise is a must-
have for any Colt collector or Python enthusiast. It is loaded with
facts regarding the Python’s history as well as its various models.
High-quality photographs feature dozens of Pythons, each with its
own Colt factory letter, are included along with historic catalog and
marketing images. “Colt’s Python: King of the Seven Serpents” is
the new python is complete with laminate walnut grips with a available from various retailers starting at $64.95.
colt medallion. Existing aftermarket grips can be substituted.

surprise trigger break since there are few mechanical cues that the are precisely aligned with the bore, rock-steady cylinder lockup
gun is about to fire. This can cure a flinch and is the reason that can actually be a detriment to accuracy. The barrel-to-cylinder
double-action revolvers are among my favorite training tools. gap measured .004 inches, which is at the tight end of the old
The new Python’s cylinder is fluted and chamfered at the .003-.008-inch Colt specifications and is better than most pro-
forward edge, just as the originals were. The latch is still drawn duction revolvers of this type on the market.
to the rear to release the cylinder. The distinctively long cylinder As mentioned, the adjustable rear sight has been redesigned to
notch leads are also present, which may contribute to the excel- allow for a stronger frame. The plain black rear sight is adjust-
lent double-action trigger pull by minimizing the friction of the able for both windage and elevation by way of a pair of standard
bolt head as it drags on the rotating cylinder. slotted screws. The front sight is interchangeable and held in
With the Python cocked, there is some play in the cylinder, place by a hex screw above the muzzle. A red ramp insert helps
which is not always a bad thing. Unless a revolver’s chambers to make the front sight more visible.
 See our full Personal Defense
line at federalpremium.com

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WWW.FEDERALPREMIUM.COM
48 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | co lt p y th on

The Python’s grips are a mix of traditional and modern, con-

structed from laminated walnut. To my eye, they are more attrac-
tive than the rubber Pachmayr grips issued on stainless Pythons
between 1983 and 2004. They are checkered and both sides wear
the Colt’s familiar “Prancing Pony” medallions. I have large-sized
hands and these grips fit me well.
G&A tested the Python with loads ranging from Federal’s
148-grain Gold Medal .38 Special Wadcutter Target to various
full-power magnums. Somewhat surprisingly, the heavy 158-grain
jacketed hollowpoints (JHP) performed best in terms of accuracy.
Black Hills’ edged out the Federal’s Hydra-Shok.
Recoil was manageable,
thanks to the Python’s well- PERFORMANCE barrel? Would they just brand
designed grip. Even after firing BEST AVG. any revolver with a Python roll
VEL. GROUP GROUP
group after group with magnum LOAD (FPS) ES SD (IN.) (IN.) mark to capitalize on demand?
ammunition, I felt no discom- Black Hills 158-gr. JHP 1,433 77 23.7 1.34 1.61 Thankfully, the answer is no.
fort. The Python functioned Fed. Prem. Hydra-Shok 158-gr. JHP 1,409 93 36.7 1.45 1.87 Still, this isn’t the same gun
with 100 percent reliability, Fed. Gold Medal Match 148-gr. WC 798 46 16.2 1.61 1.94 introduced in 1955. I would
as one would expect from a Magtech 158-grain LRN 875 24 7.8 1.98 2.36 call it a reasonable update of
premium revolver. It is no secret Hornady Amer. Gun. 125-gr. XTP 1,621 73 21.7 2.65 2.68 the classic. The fit and finish
that I love shooting revolvers. notes: Accuracy is the average of five, five-shot groups from a sandbag rest at 25 yards. are very good, probably better
Giving the Python a workout Velocity is the average of five shots recorded by an Oehler Model 35P chronograph. than the guns built at the end
was a treat. of the snake gun era.
When I heard about the Python release, I was excited, but Not to offend collectors, the new Python is, in many ways,
also a bit skeptical. Would Colt cheapen the design with a coil better than the original. The only thing missing from this model
mainspring, metal-injection-molded (MIM) parts and two-piece is one with Colt’s classic Royal Blue finish.
 THE NEW ULTRA-COMPACT

"BAD" THINGS COME IN SMALL PACK AGES TOO

Packing a punch doesn't mean being big. Our DDM4 ® PDW pistol and SBR may be compact, but these bad
boys are large and in charge when deployed. Built with the same legendary quality as their longer, larger
kin, they get the job done with their accuracy, reliability, and no-compromise durability.

$ IT’S NOT OUT OF YOUR RANGE

FOR FINANCING VISIT: DANI E LD E FE N S E. C OM
50 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0
 April 2020 G& A 51

BY TOM BECKSTRAND
PHOTOS BY MARK FINGAR

DANIEL DEFENSE VENTURES INTO

THE PERSONAL DEFENSE WORLD.
52 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | d d m 4 pd w

The linear compen- Many ask whether or not it’s legal to rest an arm brace
sator takes all the against the shoulder when firing. The Bureau of Alcohol
muzzleblast and Tobacco and Firearms’ (ATF) last ruling dated March 21,
directs it down-
range, away from 2017, states,
the shooter.
“To the extent the January 2015 Open Letter
implied or has been construed to hold that inciden-
tal, sporadic, or situational ‘use’ of an arm-brace
(in its original approved configu-
ration) equipped firearm from a
firing position at or near the shoul-
der was sufficient to constitute a
‘redesign,’ such interpretations are
incorrect and not consistent with
ATF’s interpretation of the statue
or the manner in which it has
historically been enforced.”

You cannot be thrown in jail for firing the DDM4

PDW from the shoulder unless you alter the arm brace
in some way. However, any alteration will likely be
construed as a “redesign” and end badly for the owner.
With all the legalese out of the way, that leaves us
happy consumers with a PDW chambered in a great
cartridge that is legally allowed to make “incidental,
sporadic, or situational” contact with the shooter’s shoulder.

ANYONE INTERESTED in a firearm for personal The Blackout The .300 Blackout (BLK) is a cartridge
defense should consider Daniel Defense’s new DDM4 ideally suited for defensive purposes. It has a Sporting
PDW. While it certainly looks unconventional for a Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI)
pistol, the PDW has a number of features that make maximum pressure of 55,000 pounds per square inch (psi),
it suited for home defense and concealed carry while still a common ceiling for many rifle rounds. However, the .300
maintaining all the legal protections of a pistol. Anywhere BLK case is full of pistol powder. This combination makes
you can legally carry a concealed pistol, you should legally for some interesting internal and external ballistics.
be safe to conceal the DDM4 PDW. There isn’t much room left for powder in the .300
BLK case when those big .30-caliber bullets are seated
Why? There is no substitute for a in place, especially when shooting 188- to 220-grain
good rifle when faced with poten- subsonic projectiles. The lack of volume requires use
tial violence. Once shouldered, a of a powder that doesn’t take up much space, so pistol
two-handed long arm provides better powders are preferred. The two best, in my opinion, are
stability over a smaller handgun resulting in a higher Hodgdon’s H110 and CFE BLK. (The latter is H110 with some
hit probability. If it is chambered in a rifle-pressure cartridge, neat powder coatings.) Both powders produce excellent velocity
terminal effects are often more effective at stopping a threat than out of the .300 BLK while staying below maximum pressure.
anything fired out of a conventional pistol. The DDM4 PDW falls The amount of powder in the case will determine how fast
into the category of being a pistol chambered for a rifle cartridge. the bullet will potentially fly. High-powder volume equates to
The DDM4’s most compelling feature is its Maxim Defense high-gas volume once the powder ignites, and lots of gas volume
CQB pistol brace — a $375 value — which can be used for addi- is necessary for high velocity. The .300 BLK does the best it can
tional support when firing with one hand. with limited powder volume, and it gets very good velocity with
 d dm4 pd w | Ap ril 2020 G& A 53

The maxim defense CQB pistol brace is adjustable and high The bolt carrier group is made to military specifications. The bolt
quality. It’s built on the same housing as maxim’s CQB stocks. is made of Carpenter 158 steel, and the carrier is of 8620.

the tiny amount of powder each round uses. The huge advantage
the pistol powder brings to the .300 BLK is its ability to burn
completely within just a few inches of barrel.
Chambering the DDM4 PDW in 5.56 NATO would make
little sense. The slower-burning rifle powder is nowhere near
completely burned in short barrels by the time the bullet leaves
the muzzle. With SBRs in 5.56, there is always lots of muzzle
blast and flash to consider. The complete burn of the .300 BLK
means that there is little blast or flash when the bullet exits the
muzzle, even from a 7-inch barrel. This makes the DDM4 PDW
ideal for home defense or use in or near vehicles because it offers
rifle performance with a pistol’s muzzle blast and flash. If you’ve daniel defense’s ergonomic pistol grip features a soft-touch
ever shot a gun indoors, the advantages of this feature cannot be overmolding texture and integral triggerguard. It sells for $31.
overstated.
The low exit pressure of the barrel were any shorter,
the .300 BLK (thanks to the the velocity would dip below
use of powder that burns 2,000 fps and reduces the
completely in its short barrel) terminal effect of any bullet.
makes shooting the DDM4 Daniel Defense makes the
PDW pleasant. It is also an barrel on the PDW by hammer
excellent choice for a suppres- forging it on a mandrel that
sor, and (most of the time) a forms the 1:7-inch twist rate
pistol suppressor is perfectly into the bore. Hammer-forging
usable on any .300 BLK for the a barrel makes it more durable
aforementioned reasons. than any other manufacturing
Daniel Defense managed to method, so the PDW’s barrel
put all of this performance into The ddm4 lower receiver features a slightly flared magazine well will last well past 10,000
a package that only measures that makes reloads easy to execute. rounds. The 1:7-inch twist rate
203/4 inches in overall length. matters because it’s fast enough
Even with a suppressor in place, the DDM4 PDW is compact to stabilize subsonic rounds while remaining slow enough to
and easily maneuverable. Should a home invasion occur, I can’t keep the expanding subsonic rounds from opening up inside a
think of a better defensive firearm choice than this PDW with a suppressor, should the owner choose to mount one on the PDW.
light and suppressor attached. Should it make incidental contact The PDW has a short pistol-length direct-impingement gas
with the shooter’s shoulder, it’ll shoot just like a rifle and produce system, so it will function with both supersonic and subsonic
similar effects. rounds, even when unsuppressed. The .300 BLK cartridge is
suppressor-friendly, thanks to its low exit pressure. However,
PDW Deets Getting an overall length of 203/4 inches for an not every PDW owner will have a suppressor and still might
AR-pattern pistol is no easy task. Choosing to chamber it in .300 want to shoot subsonic rounds. Shooting subsonic rounds out
BLK is a wise choice considering the barrel is only 7 inches long. of an unsuppressed DDM4 PDW makes sense if the owner lives
The 7-inch barrel is long enough to get 110-grain bullets above in a state where suppressor use isn’t allowed, or doesn’t have
2,000 feet per second (fps), so it has good muzzle velocity. If the money for a suppressor, but still wants as little muzzle blast
54 G &A Ap ril 2020 | dd m4 pdw

as possible. This PERFORMANCE

is a typical home BEST AVG.
VELOCITY GROUP GROUP
defense scenario LOAD (FPS) ES SD (IN.) (IN.)

and the DDM4 Hornady 110-gr. V-MAX 2,088 32 13.9 2.24 2.58

PDW would do SIG Sauer Match 125-gr. FMJ 1,885 43 21.1 1.56 1.96

well in it, especially Black Hills 125-gr. TMK 1,928 80 32.5 2.09 2.33

when loaded with Notes: Accuracy is the average of five, five-shot groups at 100 yards. Velocity is the
average of five shots across a LabRadar chronograph placed adjacent to the muzzle.
Hornady’s new
190-grain Sub-X
load. Daniel Defense affixes what they call a “linear compensator” The upper receiver
is so short that it
to the PDW’s muzzle to direct all muzzle blast downrange. It comes equipped
functions as advertised and is threaded onto the muzzle with a with a removeable
5⁄8-24 pitch, so it is easily removed for use with a suppressor. hand stop to prevent
the shooter’s hand
The forend Daniel Defense attaches to the PDW is 6 inches form getting too
long and covered in M-Lok slots. Both the barrel and handguard close to the muzzle.
length are ideal for defensive use. The barrel is long enough
to get light bullets above 2,000 fps, and the handguard is long
enough to mount a light while still leaving some space for the
support hand.
As mentioned, the Maxim Defense CQB Pistol Brace is a
defining feature of the DDM4 PDW. The arm brace portion of
the device is made from hard rubber surrounded by a Velcro
strap. The brace is able to be wrapped around the shooter’s arm
and held in place with the Velcro strap, or can make incidental
contact with the shooter’s shoulder, giving it similar function to
a buttstock. Should it make contact with the shooter’s shoulder
when firing from the prone or from a bench, the brace has a
small toe and doesn’t ride a rear bag very well.
The CQB Pistol Brace is well-made and shows every sign of
being rugged. While some arm braces have a cheap feel, this one
oozes quality. There is a small steel locking plate with a tab on
the left side of the brace that, when depressed, allows for brace
extension. That steel plate locks into the two steel rods that con-
nect to the rubber brace. The use of steel makes the entire brace
assembly robust and worthy of duty use.
Since the DDM4 PDW is a pistol with an arm brace, there is
no way to mount a sling to the rubber brace. However, there
is a small tab the extends below the buffer tube that serves as a
single-point sling mount. This allows the shooter to go hands-
free in defensive scenarios to open doors, make phone calls, etc.

Burning Powder The upper and lower receivers, and what’s inside
them, are what Daniel Defense is known for. Everything in the bolt
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56 G& A Ap ril 2020

carrier group meets or exceeds military

specifications. Both receivers are forged
from 7075 T6. Finish work is flawless.
Daniel Defense makes a grip with an
integral triggerguard that will leave no
blisters on the shooter’s hands. It has a
seamless and smooth transition from trig-
gerguard to grip that’s very comfortable.
I focused my efforts when accuracy test-
ing on supersonic rounds. My experience
when accuracy testing subsonic rounds at
100 yards was that group sizes increased
by 50-percent or so. The best group of
came from using SIG Sauer’s 125-grain
Match ammunition with five shots group-
ing 1.56 inches. Given the standard AR
trigger and the rubber stock with a narrow
toe, I’d call that good. Average group size
for all loads was just more than 2 inches.
The DDM4 PDW is an excellent defen-
sive firearm that can be legally concealed
like any pistol. It makes an ideal travel
companion. The fact that it packs the
punch and range of a rifle makes it even
more attractive.

The DDM4 PDW’s buffer weight is

a shortened design that allows for a
shorter lower-receiver extension and a
more compact overall package.
58 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0
 April 2020 G& A 59

BY KEITH WOOD
PHOTOS BY MARK FINGAR

SMITH & WESSON’S PERFORMANCE CENTER

OFFERS THE SCANDIUM-ALLOY-FRAME
SW1911 PRO SERIES IN 9mm FOR DEEP
AND COMFORTABLE CONCEALMENT.
60 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | cAr ry l iGh t

Smith & Wesson SW1911 Pro Series

Type: Recoil operated,
semiautomatic
Cartridge: 9mm
Capacity: 8+1 rds.
Overall Length: 6.9 in.
Height: 4.88 in.
Weight: 1 lb., 10 oz.
Material: Stainless steel (slide assy.);
scandium alloy (frame)
Grip: Ergo 1911 XTRO Officer’s
Trigger: 5 lbs., 5 oz. (tested)
Safety: Manual lever, frame
mounted, ambidextrous;
grip safety lever
IF THE MARKET is any Finish: Armornite (slide assy.); size stainless versions with different sights, and two
indicator, single-stack 9mms anodized (frame) Officer-sized models, one in 9mm and another in .45
have become a top choice for Sights: Three-dot, drift adj.; steel
ACP. For this review, we’re looking at the Officer’s
MSRP: $1,350
concealed carry handguns, Manufacturer: Smith & Wesson,
Model-sized SW1911 in 9mm.
especially with Model 1911s. 413-747-3317, Though it is similar to a Colt Officer’s Model and its
smith-wesson.com
Though polymer-framed clones, this SW1911 is slightly shorter in length.This
striker-fired pistols represent a SW1911’s slide and barrel are
considerable slice of the market, constructed from stainless steel
there is demand for a compact and finished in Armornite for
and carry-worthy 1911s. absolute corrosion protection,
Generations of shooters but to save weight the frame
have fallen in and out and is machine from scandium
back in love with the 1911, alloy. Scandium is an element
not to mention the die hards added to aluminum alloy to
who are not interested in add strength without increas-
departing from it for the sake ing weight. Smith & Wesson
of something new. Smith & has been using it since the
Wesson’s Performance Center 12-ounce Model 340PD Airlite
SW1911 Pro Series is a hand- revolver in 2002. The result
gun that transcends multiple here is a pistol that tips the
consumer categories. the eight-round stainless steel magazine fits flush in the scales at only 26 ounces.
When you consider its SW1911’s scandium-alloy frame. Inside the SW1911 grip is
features, S&W’s Pro Series fits a single-stack magazine that
in the custom-production category between the firm’s standard- carries eight rounds not to include one in the chamber. The
production models and the custom-built Performance Center fire- frame features many enhancements including a vertically serrated
arms. Essentially, SW1911s are stock guns equipped with certain frontstrap, a checkered, flat mainspring housing and a high frame
upgrades as standard equipment. cut, which puts the axis of the bore as low as possible relative
As its name suggests, the SW1911 is Smith & Wesson’s to the hand. A rounded butt makes this handgun slightly more
subcompact 1911-style handgun. There are currently two full- concealable, forming an abbreviated bobtail of sorts.
 carry l ight | Ap ril 2020 g& a 61

a combination of Ergo’s 1911 XtrO Officer’s Model hard-rubber

grip panels, a serrated fronstrap and checkered mainspring hous-
ing helps both hands maintain positive grip during recoil.

The controls on this pistol are as you’d expect. There are two
manual safeties on this handgun, both ambidextrous. The thumb
safety is extended on both sides and the beavertail grip safety is
beveled smooth. The grip safety protects the hand from hammer
bite and is sculpted with a raised bump to ensure that the shooter’s
hand disengages it automatically when grabbing the pistol. the SW1911 features two active, ambidextrous safeties: an
The magazine release is checkered, and the aluminum three- extended thumb safety lever and a beavertail grip safety.
hole trigger is familiar to 1911
shooters with its adjustable as a visual loaded chamber
overtravel stop. The trigger on indicator, also.
Guns & Ammo’s test sample Creating this compact 1911
was clean and consistent at from a full-size Government
5 pounds, 5 ounces with an Model is not simply a matter
impressively short reset. scaling-down components.
Like the frame, the stainless- Accommodations must be
steel slide is machined to made to ensure that everything
include all of the upgrades functions as it should.
that have evolved through At the top end of this hand-
the years. The ejection port is gun, the biggest departure
lowered and flared to ensure from the standard 1911 is the
smooth ejection, and all of the recoil spring assembly. The
sharp edges on the slide have the trigger is a Videki-style, aluminum trigger Pro Series uses a full-length
been dehorned. containing an overtravel-stop screw within. guiderod with two springs
The 9mm barrel measures of different sizes to help mitigate
3.1 inches in length from the breech face to the muzzle and recoil and increase reliability for
is ramped. The barrel uses a standard barrel link, all grain weights, which is always
two locking lugs forward of the chamber, and an engineering challenge on a
widens at the muzzle to facilitate lock-up 9mm 1911 this small.
with the slide. (There is no barrel A modern feature is the SW1911
bushing.) A notch milled Pro Series’ oversized external
into the barrel hood extractor. It articulates on a roll pin that
serves runs vertically through the slide. Extractor ten-
sion is one of the idiosyncrasies of the 1911 design,
and there’s a reason that so many semiautomatic handguns
designed in the last 100 years feature an external extractor.
Inside, the fixed, frame-mounted ejector is familiar to 1911 users.
Though the SW1911 Pro Series has a short sight radius of
5.3 inches, it is equipped with drift-adjustable three-dot sights.
 62 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | cAr ry l iGh t

A steel post is dovetailed at

the front and a Novak-style
combat sight is at the rear. To
my disappointment, there is
no illuminated factory option
available, but sights are easy to
source and change out.
Ergonomically, this
handgun is comfortable to
manipulate. You might expect
a stiff recoil spring on a hand-
gun of this size would result
in difficulty when racking
the slide. That’s not the case the compact Pro Series uses a bushingless barrel profile, as well as dual captive recoil springs on a
with this model. The grip stainless-steel guiderod. these are meaningful departures from the traditional Model 1911 design.
is comfortable, secure, and
allows a five-fingered purchase on the gun, despite its compact addition to running the Pro Series through several shooting drills,
dimensions. The safety lever is easy to disengage, and the grip mechanical accuracy was tested at 25 yards from a solid rest with
safety functiones without conscious thought. Ergo’s 1911 XTRO four different loads. At closer distances, this handgun is capable
hard-rubber grips are thin, but enough to hold the gun securely of putting all of its shots into a single ragged hole. Shooting a
without being overly abrasive. This gun might be a handful in compact handgun with a short sight radius to its full potential
.45 ACP, but in its 9mm recoil was mild for what’s expected. from the bench requires a great deal of focus, and we found this
Guns & Ammo staff has been handgun to be quite sensitive
shooting this gun extensively BUY IT NOW! in terms of the amount of
log on to galleryofguns.com, select this firearm, pay a deposit and it will be
for more than a year, so it at your local gun store in two days. When purchased from galleryofguns.com, gripping force used.
Davidson’s guarantees to repair or replace this firearm for life.
received a tough evaluation. In From a reliability stand-

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 carry l ight | Ap ril 2020 g& a 63

three, white-dot sights are painted on ramped

Novaks and dovetailed for windage adjustments only. PERFORMANCE
VEL. BEST AVERAGE
LOAD (FPS) ES SD GROUP (IN.) GROUP (IN.)
point, the SW1911 performed well, though the slide Hornady American Gunner 115-gr. XTP 1,066 27 8.6 2.21 2.65
did not return to battery on a few occasions. Like any SIG Sauer Elite V-Crown 124-gr. JHP 1,118 51 16.9 2.37 2.80
handgun, this SW1911 was quite dirty after firing Browning 147-gr. BXP 928 24 8.8 2.94 3.26
more than 3,000 rounds. This only proved that, like Winchester USA Ready 115-gr. FN FMJ 1,084 31 10.6 3.14 3.52
any firearm (especially a 1911 variant), preventative Notes: Accuracy is the average of five, five-shot groups from a sandbag rest at 25 yards. Velocity is the
maintenance needs to applied at reasonable intervals. average of five shots recorded by an Oehler Model 35P chronograph.

For shooters that love the ergonomics and shoota-

bility of the 1911, but seek a compact choice for every-day carry, carries lighter and is more compact. If you are one who prefers to
the SW1911 Pro Series is a solid choice. This handgun maintains carry a full-size 1911, this would make an excellent backup gun
many of the attributes we love on a full-size handgun, but it for its similar controls.
64 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0
 April 2020 G& A 65

SAVAGE
BATTERY
THREE RIFLE-SCOPE-AMMO COMBOS
THAT WORK PERFECT FOR AN
AFRICAN PLAINS-GAME SAFARI.
BY ERIC R. POOLE | PHOTOS BY MARK FINGAR
66 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | S AVAGE B ATT ERY

Panorama is one of five hunting destina-

tions in Namibia for guests of Jamy Traut
Hunting Safaris. It is also home to Jamy
and his family. The size of the hunting
area seems endless with diverse terrain
including mountains, red sand dunes and
Savannah grassland.

At Panorama,
hunters return each
evening to their
quarters, your choice
of thatched roof
chalets or luxury
safari tents elevated
on permanent foun-
dations, just a short
walk from the Trauts’
home. Panorama is
less than a 3-hour
drive south from the
Windhoek airport.

Full-course meals are

served family style in
the main dining area
under a thatched
roof, which also
keeps a stocked bar.

ELMER KEITH MADE his first trip to Africa in 1958. Born on is precision-engineered for outstanding accuracy, reliability and
March 8, 1899, he was 58 years old with a 10-gallon hat full of safety. The One-Ten is the first bolt action rifle in years to be
experience hunting North American big game. In the April 1958 designed and built right here in America ... You’ve really got to
issue of “Guns” magazine, Keith wrote “Getting Set for Safari” shoot the One-Ten to appreciate the accuracy, convenience and
and described his preparation for this trip. Airfare to Nairobi at safety built into it.” In 1958, a 110 chambered in .30-’06 Spring-
the time cost him $1,549. Adjusted for inflation, that equates field or .270 Winchester cost $109.75, which equals to about
to about $13,700 in today’s dollars. And rather than paying the $970.87 today.
outfitter a day rate, tips and trophy fees, Keith paid $600 for his I enjoy reading old issues of gun magazines, and they continue
hunting license, worth $5,308 today. His hunting license covered to inspire me today. Keith’s article from that issue and ad was the
plains game species, two buffalo, two elephant, a leopard, lion catalyst for this article. Sharing the idea with three friends I’ll
and rhino. International hunters in that era were primarily Amer- name “J.J”., “Jake” and “Mark,” we prepared for an economical
ican, including authors such as Keith, actors and magnates. For safari and, in the spirit of that 1958 issue, elected to use three Sav-
years, they had Africa to themselves. age Model 110 rifles exclusively and Bushnell’s new optics, as well
On the back cover of that April ’58 issue of “Guns” is an as Federal Premium ammunition. Each of us assembled a com-
advertisement for the then-new Savage 110. “You’re looking at bination at different price points. Craig Boddington gave me the
a completely new bolt action rifle that boasts many important recommendation of Jamy Traut Hunting Safaris (jamyhunts.com)
improvements and refinements.” It goes on to read, “Gracefully as one of his endorsed outfitters and the only one in Namibia.
proportioned, beautifully balanced, the featherweight One-Ten Located in southwest Africa and featuring the Namib Desert
 SAVA GE B AT TERY | Ap ril 2020 G& A 67

On arrival, hunters
settle in and head to
the range to confirm
zero with their rifles.
Restricted to travel-
ing with 11 pounds
(or less) of ammuni-
tion in a hard-sided
case, this opportu-
nity is managed care-
fully to avoid wasting
ammo.

Jamy Traut Hunting Safaris offer a selec-

tion of more than 20 species, and hunters
are only permitted to hunt mature ani-
mals. Among the most sought after plains
game is elusive kudu (left), also known as
Africa’s “grey ghost” for its tendency to
disappear. Mature kudu have at least two
and a half twist to their horns.

Namibia is also home to many unusual

bird species such as the Maranou stork
(above) and social weavers that can live
with hundreds of others in giant nests that
can consume a tree (right).

along its Atlantic Ocean coast, Namibia gained its independence on his properties to include a number of white rhino. The two-
in 1990. This sub-saharan country is a great destination for any year drought meant that the rhinos were competing with other
hunter. Wildlife is diverse, with this being a source of moun- plains game species for food. Rhinos must eat up to 120 pounds
tain zebra and a significant cheetah population. Here outfitters of grass per day to sustain themselves. Considering that a female
are passionate for conservation, and it’s likely the safest African rhino will only reproduce every 21/2 to 5 years and have a ges-
country to explore. tation period of up to 16 months, the investment to protect the
A flight from Atlanta to Windhoek, Namibia, averages about rhino is significant — and legal hunting pays for it. By compari-
$1,700 per person. A plains-game hunt adds between $350 and son, a 2-year-old springbok female will reproduce every 2 years
$500 per day plus license and trophy fees, which range from with a gestation period of 4 to 6 months. During a drought, it is
$100 for a jackal to $9,000 for a roan. Extremes aside, most smarter to hunt plains game and lessen the stress on local food
popular game animals cost between $550 and $2,500. Much of resources. It is also easier for wildlife conservationists like Traut
the funds earned from hunting is reinvested in protecting these to rebuild a population of plains game than lose a rhino.
animals from poachers and environmental disasters. On arrival, we were transported back in time and just as I
While there, opportunities can occur that make certain species imagined it. We slept in canvas-sided tents over concrete floors
more lucrative. For example, when J.J., Jake, Mark and I were and gathered around the Trauts’ table each evening to share expe-
there, Namibia was suffering from a 2-year drought that was kill- riences and anticipate the next day’s adventures. Once our rifles’
ing off the grasslands. Jamy Traut, owner of Jamy Traut Hunting zero was confirmed at the range, worldy pressures evaporated as
Safaris, carefully manages and protects the population of animals we set out to take in nature’s raw surroundings.
68 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | S AVAGE B ATT ERY

Before arriving to Africa, it’s most

important that you select a quality rifle,
optic and cartridge appropriate for the
game you intend to pursue. Then, you
have practice with it. Most zeroing ranges
in Africa are setup for 100 yards or 100
meters. If you expect that your shots may
be farther, it is also imporant for you
to know the drop in trajectory of your
chosen cartridge. I like to shoot several
hunting loads of a heavy grain weight
through a rifle and pick the most accurate, which can be different
with each barrel. Once I’ve got my zero, I’ll confirm a ballistic
calculator’s drop by shooting three-shot groups as far as my home
range will allow.
Next, I practice shooting from various positions and using
different magnifications. I want to cluster shots as tightly and
precisely as possible with the lowest power dialed on my scope.
If you rely on too much magnification to shoot well, you may
find yourself struggling to see an animal in the field and make an
ethical shot.
What you can’t prepare for are the random encounters that
make such a trip memorable. This time, we found ourselves in
our Toyota Land Cruiser drag racing a pair of ostrich that sped
up to 40 miles per hour, once surrounded by 30 curious giraffe
and spied a white rhino mother protecting her young calf.

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 SAVA GE B AT TERY | Ap ril 2020 G& A 69

The Storm’s barrel The left-hand

is a matte-finish action uses a two-
stainless steel. lug push-feed bolt.

Too often, left-handed hunters find themselves adapting to a right-handed world. Savage has taken Savage’s AccuFit
the time-tested Model 110, and improved ergonomics for left-handed shooters. Available in many is customizable for
calibers ranging from .22-250 Remington to 7mm Remington Magnum, J.J. used this rifle equipped length of pull and
with a Bushnell Nitro 3-12x44mm ($550) and fed it Federal’s Fusion 200-grain bonded soft-point. comb height.
One shot before dusk was all that was needed to finish an hours-long arduous stalk. Gemsbok is
an antelope (below), the largest of the oryx genus, that thrives in arid regions such as Namibia’s Savage 110 Storm (LH)
Kalahari desert. Their thick hide requires a deep penetrating bullet of .270 caliber or larger.
Type: Bolt action, left hand
Cartridge: .338 Federal
Capacity: 4+1 rds.
Barrel: 22 in., button rifled,
1:10-in. twist
Weight: 7 lbs, 2 oz.
Overall Length: 42 in.
Finish: Matte stainless steel
Stock: Savage AccuStock; gray,
synthetic; adj. comb height,
adj. length of pull
Trigger: Savage AccuTrigger;
2 lbs., 8 oz. to 6 lbs. (adj.)
Sights: None
MSRP: $865
The .338 Federal is a stout, powerful and One shot at 190 yards proved the .338
Manufacturer: Savage Arms, 413-642-4260,
heavy cartridge capable of taking down Federal’s effectiveness as it passed savagearms.com
small and large species of plains game. through the gemsbok’s thick hide to vitals.

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The new Dual Angle Hunter® Hybrid is the latest rendition of our very successful
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70 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | S AVAGE B ATT ERY

All 110 models benefit This model features an

from the AccuTrigger, 21/2 adjustable muzzlebrake
to 6 lbs., adjustable. that reduces felt recoil.

The AccuFit stock The 110 Long Range Hunter expands on the 110’s reputation for accuracy by incorporating the
secures the action new AccuFit system that let’s hunters personalize the AccuStock’s fitment. The 26-inch barrel is
three dimensionally complete with an adjustable muzzlebrake that further tames felt recoil. Combined with the user-
along its length. adjustable AccuTrigger, this model 110 can be set up ideally for you. These adjustable features
come together to promote precision and consistency. Jake used this rifle equipped with a Bush-
Savage 110 Long Range Hunter nell Nitro 4-16x44 and loaded with Federal Premium’s new 200-grain Terminal Ascent for .300
Winchester Magnum to take a magnificent red hartebeest with one shot from 360 yards.
Type: Bolt action
Cartridge: .300 Win. Mag.
Capacity: 4+1 rds.
Barrel: 26 in., button rifled;
1:10-in. twist
Weight: 8 lbs., 1 oz.
Overall Length: 47.25 in.
Finish: Matte black (carbon steel)
Stock: Savage AccuFit; gray,
synthetic, adj. comb height,
adj. length of pull
Trigger: Savage AccuTrigger;
2 lbs., 8 oz. to 6 lbs. (adj.)
Sights: None
MSRP: $1,119
Jake proudly sits behind a red hartebeest Terminal Ascent is bonded and features a
Manufacturer: Savage Arms, 413-642-4260, taken from a hidden prone position on slipstream polymer tip. Expansion starts
savagearms.com
top of a dune at 360 yards. 200 fps lower than comparable bullets.

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 SAVA GE B AT TERY | Ap ril 2020 G& A 71

The stainless steel bolt The muzzle is threaded

and barrel are spiral and capped with a
fluted and PVD coated. thread protector.
The 110 High Country
The pinnacle of Savage 110 models is the 110 High Country. Besides the camouflage AccuStock
features TrueTimber Strata
with internal chassis and customizable AccuFit combs and length-of-pull spacers, the stock
synthetic stock with over-
provides overmolded gripping surfaces for comfort and control. The coyote brown-colored
mold surfaces.
PVD coating compliments the TrueTimber Strata while supplying a low-friction barrier of
protection. Underneath the PVD treatment, the barreled action is made of stainless steel for the
Savage 110 High Country
ultimate combination against corrosion. The author mounted Bushnell’s top-of-the-line Forge
Type: Bolt action 2.5-15x50mm in Terrain color with a Deploy MOA reticle for short- or long-range precision.
Cartridge: 6.5 Creedmoor
Capacity: 4+1 rds.
Barrel: 22 in., button rifled;
1:8-in. twist, spiral fluted
Weight: 8 lbs., 1 oz.
Overall Length: 42.375 in. to 43.375 in.
Finish: Coyote Brown PVD
Stock: Savage AccuFit AccuStock;
TrueTimber Strata camo.,
synthetic; adj. comb height,
adj. length of pull
Trigger: Savage AccuTrigger;
2 lbs., 8 oz. to 6 lbs. (adj.)
Sights: None
MSRP: $1,129
Stalked to within 100 yards, this kudu bull For the ultimate in performance, the
Manufacturer: Savage Arms, 413-642-4260, was downed by one shot. The 6.5 Creed author called upon Federal’s Custom Shop
savagearms.com
will take all but the largest plains game. to load his 140-grain Nosler AccuBond.
72 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0

22
THE

.SPORT
PISTOL
!
C G O G

ONE OF MY AFRICAN MENTORS, Geoff Broom, often told

me about safaris with Colonel Charles Askins in the 1960s.
Wherever he went, Askins had a High Standard .22 pistol on his
belt, and frequently used it to bag birds for the pot. Across much
of Africa, tasty francolin fowl and guinea are frequently encoun-
tered along the road, so this is a common use for an accurate
rimfire handgun except that Askins typically shot them in the air.
 April 2020 G& A 73

COLT “THE
WOODSMAN”
58
6 ⁄ -in. medium bbl.
SN# 54000-90000
1927 –1934

Although introduced in
HIGH 1915, the rollstamped
STANDARD
SUPERMATIC inscription “THE
TROPHY
51/2-, 63/4-, 71/4-, 8- or WOODSMAN” didn’t
10-in. bbl.
1960 –1962
appear until 1927.

High Standard’s
Supermatic Trophy
featured a high-gloss
“Trophy” finish. Barrel
weights and stabilizer
were also available. THANK YOU
Examples with 8- and The Colt and High Standard pistols were loaned
to Guns & Ammo for this story by Dave Barth of
10-inch barrels are Pekin Gun & Sporting Goods, Pekin, Illinois.
valued the highest.
74 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | th e .2 2 s p ort pi sto l

prized by collec-
tors, there are many
variations of Colt’s
Woodsman and high
standard’s sport
pistols, including pro-
totypes, experimen-
tals, special orders,
factory customs and
line changes.

HIGH
STANDARD
SUPERMATIC
TOURNAMENT
41/2-, 51/2- or
63/4-in. bbl.
1960 –1965

COLT MATCH
TARGET,
SECOND SERIES
6-in. bbl.
1947 –1955

COLT
HUNTSMAN
41/2-in. or 6-in. bbl.
1955 – 1977

The Old Days: Colt & High Although perhaps not as popular as the High
Standard The .22 “sport pistol” Standard in competitive circles, Colt’s Woods-
evolved between the world wars in a man was the runaway favorite and American
time when bullseye competitions were classic .22 sport pistol. Based on a John Brown-
at their height. Rooted in target shoot- ing blowback design, some 690,000 Colt Woods-
ing, these pistols are accurate, typically man pistols were made between 1915 and 1977.
feature adjustable sights on a blowback Ernest Hemingway was a big fan, too. In his classic
semiautomatic action that’s a bit lighter novelette “Big Two-Hearted River” (1925), the protagonist,
than a competition handgun. Although “Nick Adams,” carried a Woodsman. In his posthumous
the .22 sport pistol can (and has) filled “True at First Light” (1999), Hemingway carries one during
many roles, it was not developed for pocket carry or the Mau Mau uprising in Kenya in 1954. Dad carried one,
personal defense, but was intended for plinking and too. He had his from 1939 onward.
potting small game and varmints, and even a fun utility Like the High Standard, the Woodsman was offered in
pistol for holster carry. both target and sport versions, the latter with a lighter bar-
Colt’s Woodsman was the early leader and archetyp- rel. The Woodsman Sport had either a 41/2-inch or 6-inch
ical sport pistol, but High Standard offered an alternate barrel with a 10-shot magazine. All Woodsman pistols
choice. High Standard’s .22 semiautos were manufac- had windage-adjustable rear sights. Early 41/2-inch pistols
tured from 1949 to 1984 in a wide variety of compe- had fixed front sights, but all 6-inch (and later 41/2-inch)
tition and sport models. A well-made, high-quality models had elevation-adjustable front sights. Dad’s was a
pistol, the High Standard was preferred by many 6-inch version. When I was a kid, getting to shoot it was a
target shooters. In fact, Col. Askins (1907–1999) big deal! However, to this day the Colt Woodsman remains
was a two-time national pistol champion. He prac- one of the most difficult pistols I’ve ever tried to strip down
ticed some form of shooting discipline almost every for cleaning. Putting it back together was even worse.
day, and since I’m told that he carried a High Standard on safari, I
assume he used it for at least some of his smallbore competition. Ruger Standard: A Company is Born Introduced in 1949 and
When I was shooting smallbore in college, we checked out and marketed at a suggested retail of $37.50, the Ruger Standard, later
used High Standard Supermatic target pistols from the armory. Mark I and Mk I, was William B. Ruger’s first production firearm. It
Those were great pistols, but I can assure you that, never, not on has been modified into Mk II, III, and the current Mk IV to become
my best day, could I have hit flying birds with it. the most popular and prolific .22 pistol ever made. The Ruger is a
 t h e . 22 s port pist ol | April 2020 G&A 75

ruger’s first
standard Models
featured grips with
a red eagle medal-
lion. Follow g the
death of Ale nder
sturm in 19
they were c
to black in h
memory.

A credit to modern
RUGER
nufacturing
RUGER MARK IV STANDARD ods, the
22/45 LITE “BLACK EAGLE”
4.4-in. bbl., 43/4-in. or 6-in. bbl. generation
Davidson’s Exclusive 1952 – 1982
$580 r Mark iV
ffered
with different
stylized lightening
cuts, sights and
anodized colors.

blowback action with internal bolt,

originally with fixed sights only and
nine-round magazine.
When I was a kid and
Ruger was a new name in the
firearms world, I confused .22 LR. At this moment,
“Ruger” with “Luger.” Ruger offers the Mk
Indeed, the lines of the IV pistol in 12 different
Ruger Standard — includ- models. Most basic is the
RUGER
ing its profile with fixed MARK I TARGET Mk IV Standard with fixed
51/4-, 51/2-, or
sights — are similar to the famous 78
6 ⁄ -in. bbl.
1952 – 1982
sights and a current retail
German pistol, but it is more similar price of $449. I would argue
to the Japanese Nambu. The Nambu’s grip that a true .22 sport pistol
angle slants sharply rearward, as does the Luger and both needs adjustable sights, but I suppose that depends on what
the Woodsman and High Standard .22 pistols. you intend to do with it and how well you shoot. Me, these
The Standard’s grip angle remained until 2012, when days I need all the help I can get.
the Mk III version was introduced with 22/45 variants,
emulating the grip angle of the Colt 1911. The current Browning Buck Mark Previous Browning .22 semiautomatic
Mk IV pistol remains available in Standard versions with pistols include the Nomad, Medalist and the extremely similar
fixed sights, visually very much like the original, but Challenger. Introduced in 1985, their current sport pistol
incorporate a number of mechanical and design entry is the Buck Mark. Browning does have another .22
improvements. Grips and grip angles, barrel semiauto pistol, their excellent 1911-22, an 85 percent scaled-
lengths, sights and rails, finishes, and down version of the 1911. I need to go out on a limb here
barrels threaded or not. To me, the grip and say that the 1911-22, although a great pistol in all ways,
angle is largely a matter of personal isn’t exactly a sport pistol because of its short barrel and non-
preference. I have owned and used both, adjustable sights, so it appears absent on these pages.
but I guess I’m a 1911 guy at heart, so I The Buck Mark is definitely a sport pistol: blowback opera-
prefer the 22/45 version. tion, 10-shot magazine and a fixed barrel. The bolt isn’t exactly
Across the four gener- internal like the Ruger, but it operates underneath a top frame
ations, the Ruger strap. Grip angle is fairly similar to the 1911, but what else
pistols have been
offered in dozens BUY IT NOW!
log on to galleryofguns.com, select this firearm, pay a deposit and it will
of variations, be at your local gun store in two days. When purchased from galleryof-
guns.com, Davidson’s guarantees to repair or replace this firearm for life.
although always in
76 G& A A pr il 2 0 2 0 | th e .2 2 s p ort pi sto l

Browning’s Buck Mark

is a worldwide favorite.
in Finland, Boddington
used a Buck Mark to BROWNING
take this supikoira or BUCK MARK
CONTOUR
ccoon dog,” a small STAINLESS URX
51/2- or 71/4-in. bbl.
common in 2020 – Current
$580-$590
e

BROWNING
BUCK MARK
PLUS VISION RED
(LIMITED PROD.)
57⁄8-in. bbl. i duced at the 2020
2020
$700 t show, Browning’s
Mark plus Vision red
ures a suppressor-
ready threaded barrel
given a muzzle brake, UFX
overmolded grips and
an adjustable rear sight
behind a fiber-optic front.

The Model 41 is very much a respected target pistol, but

I argue that it isn’t a sport pistol.
On the other hand, the Victory has a blowback
would we expect from Browning? action with a 10-shot magazine, .22 LR with enclosed
Browning does an amazing job of offer- bolt and grip angle similar to a 1911-type pistol. S&W
ing a wide array of products. The Buck took a different approach with the Victory. It isn’t a
Mark has been through innumerable vari- one-size-fits-all design, but the standard model is the
ations in the last 34 years and is currently Victory Target with 51/2-inch bull barrel, fiber-optic
offered in 23 different models. Variations sights with adjustable rear, stainless steel with textured
include finishes; grips; slab-sided, grip panels and a optic rail supplied.
round barrels; barrel lengths, sight It’s a complete sport pistol package
threaded or unthreaded muzzles. M at a retail of $416. Both threaded and
ences are cosmetic, which is not un unthreaded versions are available,
but the variety of Buck Mark pistol but for additional options, including
Prices start at just $389, which is a 6-inch, fluted, carbon-fiber barrels and
this small-pistol category. The Buck factory-supplied Vortex Viper red dot
pistol but, uniquely, is also the basi sight, you’ll need to contact the
Buck Mark .22 rifle. Performance Center.

Smith & Wesson Victory Introdu Performance & Sights The High
Wesson’s “Victory” is the newest on Standard pistol was thought to be
replaces (and is similar to) the Mod finicky about cycling, but I’ve read this
significant difference is that the bar was usually a maintenance issue. My
It is quite different from the much only experience with a High Standard
a legend that dates back to 1957 an was in competition where we cleaned
our pistols regularly. With thorough
BUY IT NOW! cleaning, I don’t ever remember ever
log on to galleryofguns.com, select this firearm, pay a deposit and it will
be at your local gun store in two days. When purchased from galleryof- catching a jam during a rapid-fire
guns.com, Davidson’s guarantees to repair or replace this firearm for life.
string, but that was a long time ago
 2 s port pist ol | Ap ril 2020 G& A 77

SMITH &
WESSON
SW22 VICTORY
51/2-in. or 6-in. Perf.
Ctr. bbl.
2016 – Current
$416

on the bench with the smith

& Wesson’s sW22 Victory.
the trigger is superb, a legacy
from s&W Model 41 target
pistols that these modern
pistols descend from.

and I suppose it must have

l rgely unchanged,
happened. e legendary Model
Dad’s Woodsman generally is still produced
performed consistently, and d hand built in
mited quantity by
numerous Ruger pistols I’ve had smith & Wesson’s
(from Mark I to IV) have p rformance Center.
always spit ‘em out. I have SMITH &
WESSON
less experience with the MODEL 41
51/2-in. or 7-in bbl.
Buck Mark and the Victory, 1957 – Current Lite, and a 1940s vintage Woodsman. All grip angles
$1,369
but they are proven pistols with reputations for reliability. except the Woodsman’s were “1911-esque” and I found
These days, we are sometimes subjects to ammo them steadier and more comfortable to shoot than the
availability, especially in .22 LR. I’ve learned that Browning, Woodsman’s rear-slanting grip. The heavier barrels on the
Ruger, Smith & Wesson and an old reliable Woodsman have all Buck Mark and Victory also aided stability, but of course these
jammed with cheap, bulk lots of .22 ammo. Across the board, are heavier pistols. The Buck Mark Camper URX weighs 34
as you might expect with a blowback action, high-velocity .22 ounces, while the S&W Victory with the heaviest barrel weighs
LR was pretty much non-slip. However, standard-velocity .22 36 ounces. The 22/45 Lite is significantly lighter at 25 ounces.
LR ammunition from good brands also work fine. The problems For comparison, the old all-steel Woodsman with a 6-inch barrel
arise with inexpensive, bulk ammo that we’re compelled to buy weighs 32 ounces, but with its longer, slender barrel, it was the
because it’s such a good deal. It’s not a good deal if jams are most difficult to steady. Across the board, trigger use was excep-
frustratingly frequent. Plink with what you want, but if you want tional, crisp and light, further proof that these sport pistols have
to make sure your sport pistol will function properly with every roots in target shooting.
shot, feed it good ammo! Another thing I learned is that there are major differences in
For this story, I had on hand a sights. This was not a huge sur-
Buck Mark Camper UFX stainless, BUY IT NOW! prise. It’s been a long time since I
log on to galleryofguns.com, select this firearm, pay a deposit and it will
a Victory Target stainless, an early be at your local gun store in two days. When purchased from galleryof- shot smallbore competition, and
guns.com, Davidson’s guarantees to repair or replace this firearm for life.
Mk III 22/45 Lite, a Mk IV 22/45 my eyes aren’t what they were back
 78 G &A Ap ril 2020 | t he . 22 sport pi s to l

Handi-Racker.com
The Safest Way to then. However, shooting a sport pistol, as
in head-shooting small game and grouse,

Rack Your Pistols is not the same as ringing steel. Fixed

iron sights are obviously not designed for
precise shooting at small targets. The front
blades, or fiber-optic beads on some exam-
ples, are too big and subtended too much
of the target. Sure, they’re great for fast A 11/2-inch, 25-yard group was fired with
ruger’s 22/45 lite and a red dot sight.
shooting at larger targets (like silhouettes), this isn’t quite minute of angle (MoA), but
but they’re not ideal for little marks. it is definitely “minute of squirrel.”
Surprisingly, the most precise sight for
me was the narrow, square, flat-topped
blade on an 80-year-old Woodsman, hear-
– Load and unload kening back to a time when we worried
– Clears Jams about X-ring hits, not just plinking. My
– Aids in disassembly Officer’s Model target revolver of the same
vintage, have exactly the same narrow,
– Aids in assembly square, flat-topped blades. Mind you, I had
MSRP was ...................$29.99 to strain like heck to see that narrow blade.
the author’s 80-year-old Colt Woodsman
NOW only ....................$19.99 OK, actually, I couldn’t see it. I cheated
smacks of old school style and craftman-
using reading glasses, allowing the target to ship, but the modern sport pistols are
Dealer Inquires be fuzzy, but keeping the sights sharp. more affordable and easier to come by.

Welcome In this fashion I could shoot reasonable

15-yard groups by concentrating on center-of-mass holds, but my
(515) 480-4905 25-yard groups opened up badly. I could keep armadillos out of
my yard, but if I needed to head-shoot vermin, there would be a
few that got away. So, I cheated again. One of the Ruger pistols I
had on hand was a Davidson’s Exclusive green-anodized Mk IV

SPECIAL 22/45 Lite featuring a barrel shroud and rail on the receiver. I put
a red dot sight on the rail, which tightened up my groups.
NEWSSTAND-ONLY
SHOOTING PUBLICATIONS Accuracy For this round-up, I was curious to compare groups
from each sport pistol. With adjustable open sights as supplied,
NOW AVAILABLE AT OUR I could keep the Buck Mark, Victory, Mark IV, and the old
ONLINE NEWSSTAND Woodsman to 3-inch groups at 25 yards. With a whole bunch
of eyestrain, I could hold the occasional 21/2-inch group, but not
OSGNEWSSTAND.COM much tighter. Sure, these pistols are all capable of better, but
that’s as good I could see to hold with or without reading glasses.
This level of accuracy will no longer win bullseye matches, but it
might still put some small game in the pot.
I accept that adding a red dot sight was not in keeping with
the sport pistol concept. I also accept that I’m a child of the
optical sight era. I’m now old enough that my eyes can no longer
resolve iron sights for pinpoint accuracy. Therefore, I decided
I should be old enough to admit it. The red dot sight cut the
groups in half. After zeroing, 11/2-inch groups were instantly pos-
sible. Even at that, I’d miss the occasional head shot, but that’s
well within “minute of squirrel” or “rabbit.” My Kansas woods
are brim-full of red squirrels and I haven’t bothered them much.
I may spend some time when the season rolls around again.
It’s been a long time since I’ve taken a .22 sport pistol into the
woods. Sounds like fun, but flying birds won’t be on the agenda.
As for a favorite, I can’t pick just one. I can say it isn’t the old
Colt Woodsman. That’s still a great pistol, but the modern sport
pistols were easier to shoot well — especially with a red dot.
 STILL MAKING
HISTORY.
COLT.COM/PYTHON
80 G&A Apr il 2020

PR OOF HOUS E Mossberg Patriot LR Hunter

GO THE DISTANCE
MOSSBERG’S PATRIOT LINE of bolt-action Patriot rifles feature injection molded stocks,
rifles is growing for 2020, and the newest addi- but the Hunter LR stock merges a hardwood
tion, the Patriot LR Hunter, is designed with core with a gray polymer exterior and a black
serious long-range hunters in mind. web pattern that looks much like a hand-laid
At the heart of this gun is Mossberg’s push- composite stock. At the comb, there is a
feed action with dual locking lugs, a plunger- raised Monte Carlo cheekpiece to align the
type extractor and a spiral-fluted bolt body. shooter’s eye with the optic. Inside, aluminum
The LR Hunter is also equipped with a detach- pillar bedding improves accuracy potential.
able, polymer-box magazine, a two-position The deep grip profile allows for a com-
rocker-type safety, a one-piece rail, and fortable hold on the rifle from any shooting
Mossberg’s bladed- and a user-adjustable LBA position. The rather steep angle makes reach-
trigger. These are features that have made the ing the LBA trigger easy. At the front, the LR
Patriot line a popular option with hunters. Hunter also features a tapered forearm with a
The LR Hunter adds a new stock that’s flat bottom that bags nicely. Dual sling studs
purpose-built for long-range hunting. Most also make it easy to mount a bipod.
 April 20 20 G&A 81

The LR Hunter utilizes the same two-lug, The oversized bolt handle makes lifting The Patriot LR Hunter’s polymer maga-
push-feed bolt found in other Patriot and cycling the Patriot LR Hunter fast zine sits almost flush against the bottom
rifles. The bolt body wears spiral fluting and easy. Like other Patriot rifles, the LR of the rifle’s stock. A release lever is
giving the gun a stylish appearance and a Hunter uses a 90-degree bolt throw and a recessed, which protects against uninten-
tiny bit of weight savings. two-position rocker-type safety. tional mag drops while hunting.

PHOTOS: MARK FINGAR

Mossberg Patriot LR Hunting
Type: Bolt action
Caliber: 6.5 PRC (tested);
6.5 Creedmoor;
.308 Win.;
.300 Win. Mag.
Capacity: 4+1 rds.
Barrel: 22, 24 in.; fluted, threaded
Overall Length: 42.25 in. to 44.75 in.
Weight: 7 lbs.
Stock: Wood core with
polymer shell
Length of Pull: 13.75 in.
Finish: Grey (stock);
matte blue (steel)
Trigger: 2 lbs., 8 oz.
Sights: None
MSRP: $721
Manufacturer: O.F. Mossberg & Sons,
203-230-5300,
mossberg.com
 82 G &A Ap ril 2020 | Mossb erG PAt ri ot L r H un tin G

Never to be
minted again –
YOURS FREE!

Birthplace

Formative The Patriot LR Hunter’s

Years carbon steel, button-rifled
The threaded muzzle sporter-profile barrel is Patriot LR Hunter
makes it easy to add fluted and finished in matte rifles feature a stock
a muzzle device or blue. The 22-inch barrel with a wood core that’s
suppressor. A cap with is used for 6.5 Creedmoor polymer-coated. Texture
knurling is provided and .308 Win. models, and comes by a webbed gray
Professional to protect the threads those chambering 6.5 PRC finish. The flat-bottom
Life
when no muzzle device and .300 Win. Mag. receive forearm is ideal for
is in place. 24-inch barrels. shooting on bags.

Presidency

YOURS FREE! Like other Patriot rifles, the LR

100th Anniversary
Hunter is fitted with a carbon steel,
button-rifled fluted barrel complete

Lincoln Cents
Get an Uncirculated Set of
with a threaded muzzle. A thread cap
is included for those who choose not
100th Anniversary Lincoln to suppress their rifle. For those who
Cents – minted only in 2009
to celebrate 4 major stages in do, the Patriot’s barrel has a wide
Abraham Lincoln’s life.
shoulder that effectively supports it.
Get the 4-Coin
Anniversary Set FREE!
For 2020, the LR Hunter is avail-
• Contains all 4 designs, each one able in four calibers: 6.5 Creedmoor,
honoring a stage in Abe Lincoln’s life.
• Each design minted for about 3 months 6.5 PRC, .308 Winchester, and .300
and then never again! Winchester Magnum. This selection The Patriot LR Hunter’s polymer magazine
• All in preferred Uncirculated condition fits securely into the rifle. The double-stack
should appeal to hunters and long- design increases capacity. Spare magazines
Order within 30 days to receive your
4-coin set FREE - plus FREE shipping! range shooters alike. can be bought online for around $30.
Why are we offering such a great deal? Because The .308 Win. and 6.5 Creedmoor-
we’re so sure you’ll like this FREE set that you’ll
enjoy receiving a RISK-FREE trial selection of chambered rifles weigh 61/2 pounds each and sport 22-inch
other popular coins to preview in your home.
You’ll receive our fully illustrated catalog, barrels, while the 6.5 PRC and .300 Win. Mag. rifles are
plus other fascinating selections from our Free
Examination Coins-on-Approval Service, from equipped with 24-inch barrels and weigh 7 pounds. Both
which you may purchase any or none of the coins the .308- and .300 Win. Mag. models use 1:10-inch twist
– return balance in 15 days – with option to cancel
at any time. To receive your FREE 4-coin set, mail rates, while the 6.5 Creedmoor and 6.5 PRC have 1:8-inch
attached coupon today!
twists. The 6.5 PRC we tested measured 441/4 inches from
Special Offer for New Customers Only - Must be age 18+ stem to stern, and the LBA trigger recorded 21/2 pounds.
✓ YES! Please
❐ send me the 2009 4-Coin
Lincoln Cent Anniversary Set FREE
(regularly $1.75), plus FREE shipping (limit 1 set).
ORDERS MUST BE RECEIVED WITHIN 30 DAYS
1
Number of Sets: _________
FREE
Shipping & Handling: $ ________
FREE
Total Amount : $ ________ Mossberg’s Patriot
push-feed action has
Name _____________________________________________ proven effective.
The 90-degree bolt
Address_________________________________ Apt # ______ lift is tall, but the
City _________________________ State_____ Zip_________
result is less effort to
cycle. Be sure of the
E-Mail _____________________________________________ needed scope height
Please send coupon to: to prevent interfer-
Dept. 5EW406 1309 Mt. Eustis Rd ence between the bolt
Littleton NH 03561-3737 handle and the scope’s
Serving Collectors Since 1945
ocular lens housing.
 Mossb erg Pat r i ot Lr Hunt ing | Ap ril 2020 g& a 83

The new Patriot LR Hunter The raised comb helps

comes with a one-piece scope properly align the shoot-
rail for securely mounting er’s eye behind the optic.
optics. The rail offers plenty The result enables a solid
of height for mounting cheekweld.
scopes with large objective
lenses.

Patriot LR Hunter rifles are The Patriot LR Hunter’s

equipped with Mossberg’s deep, contoured grip
Lightning Bolt Action (LBA) is suitable for shooters Patriot LR Hunter rifles
trigger. The LBA trigger is with large or small comes equipped with
user-adjustable and safe. hands. The angle allows three sling studs. Dual
G&A’s sample arrived fac- for a comfortable grip front studs provide
tory set at 21/2 pounds. when shooting prone. separate anchor points
for a bipod and sling.

Magazine capacity is five rounds for the .308 and 6.5 Mossberg LR Hunter chambered in 6.5 PRC. While the
Creedmoor models, four for 6.5 PRC and three for .300 deer didn’t cooperate (none were taken in the area), the
Win. Mag. rifles. rifle proved flawless at the range. Mossberg’s Hunter
LR is one of the new breeds of rifles that incorporates
in the Field A couple members of Guns & Ammo’s staff features found on dedicated long-range guns. Mossberg
spent the better part of a week hunting whitetails with a has managed to create a rifle that is versatile and shooter
 84 G&A Ap ril 2020 | Moss b erG PAtriot Lr Hun t inG

friendly. The bolt knob is oversized and easy to

manipulate while wearing gloves, and the one-
piece scope rail made mounting one simple.
The primary upgrade you’ll see on this model
when compared to other Patriot rifles is the new
stock — and it’s an excellent upgrade. The grey
polymer shell offers micro texturing that makes
the stock easy to grasp and hold on to, while
the flat-bottom forearm with dual sling studs is
preferred for sling-and-bipod users.
Tapering on the forearm provides a com-
fortable grip and complete control of the gun,
but our favorite feature on this new stock is the
pistol grip. Its depth and angle allow for a com-
fortable hold on the rifle when shooting prone
off the bench or in the field. The symmetrical
palm swell fills the shooter’s hand and further
improves control and comfort. Length of pull is
133/4 inches, which accommodates most of us,
and the recoil pad feels dense with rounded
edges that don’t hang up on thick jackets.
There’s a pronounced gap between the
channel and the barrel, but we’d otherwise rate

AR-15/M16 | .308 AR | AK-47/AK-74 | HK | Steyr AUG | SIG Sauer

CZ | Galil | 10/22™ | Kel-Tec | M-249 | SCAR | Bushmaster ACR
Ruger ® | Marlin/Henry | Benelli/Mossberg/Remington

USE GNA10 FOR 10% OFF ALL MI PRODUCTS

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 86 G& A Ap ril 2020

♥ Joseph (MI) “Fabulous product. You

guys were very well respected, you have
gone through the double blind studies. You
did the research! I was shocked at how
well 10X works. I am married and am
with my wife only. Well within 5 days it
was amazing. The affection level went
up 20 fold. I am so grateful to you Dr. Cut- UNSCENTED it among the best factory wood and
ler. Thank you so much for composite stocks we’ve tested on a
Created by your research!” INCREASES YOUR ATTRACTIVENESS
Dr. Winnifred Cutler
Not in Stores. Free US Shipping Vial of 1/6 oz. added to 2-4 oz. of rifle in this price point. Further, the
• Ph.D., U. Penn in biology fragrance, worn daily lasts 4-6 polymer exterior held up to a week of
• Author of 8 books on Athenainstitute.com mos. Effective in published
wellness.
or Call 610-827-2200 studies. Cosmetic. Will work for neglect in deer camp as it was hauled
• Co-discovered human tm most, but not all. 10:13 for women
pheromones in 1986 Athena Institute, 1211 Braefield Rd, Chester Spgs, PA 19425 $98.50, 10X for men $99.50. in and out of stands and blinds with-
out suffering a noticeable nick.
Accuracy testing proved that the LR

GUNS&AMMO
Hunter lives up to its billing as a long-
range hunting rifle. On the bench
from 100 yards, the average group
GUNSANDAMMO.COM sizes for the 6.5 PRC were just over an
inch when using Hornady’s 143-grain
ELD-X Precision Hunter load. There
were no issues with cycling or feed-
ing. The polymer magazine fit neatly
into the rifle and locked securely in
place, and it fell free into the hand
Today’s when the release tab at the front of
Pricing! the magazine was pressed. With the
safety engaged, the bolt could still be
9mm operated.
2.5 inch barrel At 7 pounds or less, the LR Hunter
1958 SPECIAL!
$
269 ROUGH is suitable for hunting in any environ-
NECK ment, even steep country where long

$
269
Get Yours hikes are the norm. We think that
Today!
both hunters and shooters, particu-
larly those who want to do both with a

45LC/.410 single rifle, will be more than satisfied

by the performance of the new Patriot
3 inch barrel
LR Hunter. With the exception of
ROWDY
299
Mossberg’s flagship Patriot Revere, it’s
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$ the best-looking Patriot model. In true
EC
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UR Mossberg fashion, it offers rugged

dependability and excellent perfor-
mance at an affordable price.
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88 G & A A pr il 2 0 2 0 S PENT C A SES

In honor of Ensign Joshua K. Watson, U.S. Navy.

K E I T H W OOD

DEFENDERS LEFT DEFENSELESS

ON FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2019, Ensign Joshua Kaleb defend themselves. This isn’t the first time this happened,
Watson made his final trip home to Enterprise, Alabama. and if we don’t change something, it won’t be the last.” At
Thousands of local citizens stood in the cold rain to line the risk of politicizing this tragedy, I couldn’t agree more.
the roadside where his procession traveled. They waved When U.S. service members deploy to combat zones
American flags and paid their respects to this young hero overseas, they do so armed. So-called “green-on-blue”
as he passed. The entire student body of his high school attacks by Allied troops have become increasingly com-
alma mater stood humbly and in mon in Afghanistan, and the mili-
silence as the white hearse drove tary response has been to ensure
slowly by the campus. that our troops have the means
Watson was a recent graduate of to defend themselves at all times.
the United States Naval Academy This method of self-defense comes
and a flight school student at Pen- to a screeching halt stateside,
sacola Naval Air Station in the pan- though, leaving brave men and
handle of Florida, two hours from women like Ensign Watson hope-
his hometown. Tragically, he was lessly disadvantaged in the face
one of three men murdered when of an armed attack. I guess I don’t
a Saudi national who was training see the controversy in arming our
on the post opened fire inside a armed forces. After all, if we can’t
classroom. Mortally wounded by at trust members of our military with
least five bullets, Watson spent his a gun, who can we trust?
last heroic moments on this earth However, there are notable
directing first responders to the exceptions to these policies,
shooter’s location. He died a hero. including the Marine Corps’ use of
Ensign Watson was not only one “Guardian Angels” as part of their
of America’s best and brightest force-protection strategy. In a 2006
sons, he was one of us. He was a policy letter, General James Mattis
shooter. Joshua Watson grew up outlined the need for such a pro-
enjoying the outdoors and shot rifles competitively, both at gram to keep his Marines safe both at home and abroad.
Enterprise High School and later at the U.S. Naval Acad- “A mature, alert and trusted individual is hidden, watching
emy. As the captain of the rifle team at Annapolis, Wat- over his unit’s security in an ambush mentality.” According
son led Navy to their first victory over Army in a decade, to media reports, armed Guardian Angels provide security
posting high scores in both smallbore and air rifle. Despite for Marine officer trainees at Quantico, Virginia, to prevent
his prowess on the range, Watson died standing watch, events such as these. It is time for the rest of the military
unarmed by military regulations that rely on civilian law to embrace a force-protection strategy that will keep our
enforcement officers and private security guards to protect soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines safe at all times.
our service members and their families. Just before Watson was laid to rest at the Alabama
It didn’t have to be that way, not after similar tragedies National Cemetery, members of the Wildcat Rifle Team at
at Fort Bragg in 1995, and again at Fort Hood in 2009 and Enterprise High School honored Watson by adding his ini-
2014, where active shooters preyed on unarmed service tials to the team’s logo, ensuring that his memory will live
members. “He was well-qualified to have a firearm and on along the shooters who will follow in his footsteps. We
defend himself,” Watson’s brother Adam told Fox News. should honor him further by ensuring that this never hap-
“If we are going to ask these young men and women to pens again — that we never ask a member of the military
stand watch for our country, they need the opportunity to to stand a post unarmed. Rest in peace, Ensign Watson.