Insights

The Colt SMG and Its Many Clones

The world of submachine guns is an interesting one. The MP5 was king of the SMG, but Colt wanted some of that sweet SMG money. Thus, they gave birth to the Colt SMG. 

Smokeless Powder: A History And Evolution

Gunpowder has come a long way since its inception. It truly drove the advancement of firearms and artillery over the course of many centuries, shaping the path of warfare. That progression continues to this day. Today we're looking back at the history of gunpowder and its evolution to modern smokeless powder.

Interview With Massad Ayoob: Parts 1 & 2

We sat down with Massad Ayoob a little while ago to pick his brain about training, firearms, and his work. This is Part 1 of a 2-part interview.

Hondo and His Guns Through Three Generations of SWAT

SWAT is an interesting television show and it was the first police show to ever focus on the Special Weapons and Tactics teams pioneered by the LAPD. The leader of the unit Dan 'Hondo' Harrelson, helped inspire not only the use of modern weapons by police but helped create the entire 1980s tactical look. What's always captured me about these film SWAT officers is that they've also done a great job of representing the gear and tactics of that era. The guns, accessories, and gear all match the era from the 1970s origins to the 2003 early GWOT to the current crop of high-speed rifles, optics, and gadgets. Today, we are going to examine the weapons of Hondo and see how they reflect the era they originated in.

Women’s History Month: Lyudmila Pavlichenko AKA “Lady Death”

Born near Kiev, Ukraine, in 1916, Lyudmila Pavlichenko was the deadliest of the 2,000 or so female snipers deployed by the Soviet Red Army, a former ally, in World War II. Despite an archaic "less-than-equal" view of women in war, Pavlichenko was truly an amazing inspiration for future female warriors and the world wouldn't be the same without her.

Quality Control: Forged vs. Cast Steel Parts

When choosing a firearm, what is better, forged or cast parts? The differences between the two are worth noting as you make your decision.

.30 Carbine: The Most Expensive Underpowered Cartridge Ever Produced?

For those who want or have one, is the .30 Carbine best shot at paper targets alone, given how underpowered and expensive it is?

Green Tip Ammo: Why Many Ranges Say “No”

Green Tip ammo has been subjected to plenty of political propaganda, so let’s look at what those rounds are, and what they are not.

North Hollywood Shootout: 44 Minutes That Changed Law Enforcement

On February 28, 1997, the North Hollywood Shootout left its indelible mark on law enforcement and tactics. Here's the story.

Frank Hamer’s Hammers – The Legendary Lawman and his Firearms

Frank Hamer was a lawman to his core, and the Bonnie and Clyde ambush was really a small bump in an epic life. Today we're looking at Frank Hamer and his guns in detail.