GunMag Gun News 5×5 Friday — October 2020

Gun News from the firearm, tactical, outdoor, training, and hunting world. But mostly firearms!

• 5×5 Friday, week ending October 30, 2020
• 5×5 Friday, week ending October 23, 2020
• 5×5 Friday, week ending October 16, 2020
• 5×5 Friday, week ending October 9, 2020
• 5×5 Friday, week ending October 2, 2020

Friday, October 30, 2020

Well, here we are with the last installment in October’s gun news with the announcement that many have been expecting. SHOT isn’t going to happen in January. Is anyone surprised?

Still, the industry continues to do remarkably well, and this week we’ve got some new releases from Red Arrow Weapons, Sig Custom Works, J.P. Sauer & Sohn, Savage, and Bushnell.

⊕SHOT Show 2021 — Cancelled

Gun News. Folks have been speculating about this for months, after watching one trade show after another succumb to the Covid pandemic. Well, now we know for sure. SHOT Show 2021, the show that was slotted to be the biggest one yet with a much larger infrastructure to host many more exhibitors — just isn’t going to happen. 

Here’s the statement that NSSF President & CEO Joe Bartozzi released earlier today:

Due to the recent rise in COVID-19 cases throughout the world, NSSF, the firearm industry trade association, today makes the difficult announcement that the 2021 SHOT Show has been cancelled.

NSSF has remained in constant communication with Nevada officials throughout the year in our planning for the 2021 show. While there has been a concerted effort to expand the allowable levels for large gatherings by the county and state, with positivity rates peaking during our key planning period we have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2021 show. Sadly, these spikes are currently transpiring worldwide. Given the sheer complexities, diminishing timeline and immense logistical planning required to conduct a trade show as large as SHOT, NSSF simply could not move forward at this point with so many unknowns and variables. We truly appreciate the guidance of Nevada and Las Vegas officials in allowing us to communicate this news to our exhibitors and attendees well in advance of the show. We would also like to thank the Sands directly for their help and efforts to navigate this unprecedented situation.

The planning and work that has gone into the 2021 SHOT Show has been nothing short of remarkable. Since the pandemic began in early 2020, the NSSF staff and our show partners have been working around the clock to plan our largest show in history while keeping the health and safety of all involved as paramount.

The support of our show exhibitors this year has also been nothing short of remarkable. With three months to go until the show, floor space for both the Sands Expo Center and our expansion to the new Caesars Forum was nearly sold out, with more companies than ever before represented at the SHOT Show.

All of this positions us for a 2022 SHOT Show that will be undoubtedly the best in our industry’s history, and we look forward to bringing our entire community together again at a show that will be one to remember.

⊕Red Arrow Weapons

RAW15 300 Blackout Pistol

Gun News. Red Arrow Weapons has another new release this week, this one is available in two color packages. RAW says the forged 7075 T6 Aluminum upper and lower receivers are complimented with a Tailhook Mod 2 brace and slew of other performance parts to complete this serious “Turn ‘Em Red” pistol package.

From Red Arrow Weapons:

The 300 AAC pistol package from Red Arrow Weapons features a 10” barrel and a 9” M-Lok RAW-Rail. The Diamondback barrel features 4150 Chrome-moly construction with a black nitride coating process and operates with a 1:8 twist rate. A drop in 3.5 lbs single-stage trigger and a Mil-Spec 8620 magnetic particle, nitride coated bolt carrier group complete this high-performance package.

The RAW15 in 300 AAC pistol is capable of a wide range of applications. The shorter pistol frame makes it a very desirable personal defense option- the perfect “truck gun” or home defense firearm, plus it is a tournament shooter’s dream option for 3-gun competitions and, even though it is shorter, it’s still an extremely viable hunting firearm option. The fit and function of this premium Red Arrow Weapons package is sure to become one of your favorite go-to firearms for many years to come.

SIG SAUER Custom Works

Equinox Series

Gun News. Sig Custom works just expanded its series of pistols by introducing the SIG Custom Works Limited Edition Equinox Series of pistols for the P226 Equinox and P229 Equinox. These pistols feature the two-tone, engraved Equinox slide design with contrasting nickel-plated controls, a black Hogue SL G-10 grip, Xray3 Day/Night sights, and an SRT trigger. Both are chambered in 9mm and come with 2 magazines, the Custom Works case, a CW challenge coin, and a certified custom certificate.

The SIG Custom Works series of pistols includes the P320 AXG Scorpion, the classic line Nightmare Series, and now, the Equinox series.

Tom Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President, Commercial Sales, said, “This is an exciting addition to the SIG Custom Works series of pistols, and a must have for SIG aficionados and collectors alike. SIG Custom Works has recreated the popular two-tone, contrasting Equinox finish originally introduced over a decade ago for the iconic P226 and P229 pistols. These throwback limited-edition builds have the same look and feel of their predecessors that made the Equinox series a consistent request of SIG fans.”

From Sig:

The SIG Custom Works P226 and P229 Equinox pistols are 9mm hammer-fired pistols that each feature a black anodized metal frame and a Nitron stainless steel slide to achieve the two-tone equinox finish. The pistols are equipped with X-RAY 3 Day/Night Sights, Hogue classic contour SL G-10 grips, a short reset trigger, and pistol ships with (3) magazines. Exclusive SIG Custom Works feature include logo engraving on the slide, a Negrini SIG Custom Works case, challenge coin, and an official SIG Custom Works Certificate of Authenticity. 

P226 Equinox Specs:

• Overall length: 7.7 inches
• Overall height: 5.5 inches
• Overall width: 1.5 inches
• Barrel length: 4.4 inches
• Sight Radius: 6.3 inches
• Weight (w/magazine): 34 oz.

P229 Equinox Specs:

• Overall length: 7.1 inches
• Overall height: 5.5 inches
• Overall width: 1.5 inches
• Barrel length: 3.9 inches
• Sight Radius: 5.7 inches
• Weight (w/magazine): 34 oz.

⊕J. P. Sauer & Sohn

Synchro XTC Camo Green Carbon-Fiber Rifle

Gun News. Germany’s oldest manufacturer of hunting firearms just added a new model to it’s flagship S4040 series. This bolt-action rifle weighs in at 6.1 lbs. According to the company, it delivers unsurpassed German precision, world-class accuracy, and reliability in a bolt-action rifle.

“The Sauer 404 is the finest traditional bolt-action rifle engineered today,” said Jason Evans, CEO, Blaser Group. “The elegance, craftsmanship, precision and modularity of the S404 line is legendary, incorporating nearly 270 years of knowledge with 21st Century technology. The Synchro XTC camo green gives hunters yet another option in our popular flagship line.”

From J.P. Sauer & Sohn

The hand-laid, carbon-fiber stock features advanced recoil reducing properties in addition to a thumbhole and adjustable comb. The cold hammer-forged barrel is fluted for optimal balance and additional weight reduction. The crisp adjustable trigger features four different pull weights – from 1.2 lbs. to 2.7 lbs. Adjusting to the preferred pull weight is easy using the settings marked by Roman numerals just above the trigger.

S404 rifles are designed and engineered to allow easy changing of bolt heads and barrels for quick caliber conversions. This modularity is an advantage for those who frequently travel to hunt. The S404 Synchro XTC is available in all current calibers in the S404 series.

Features

Gun News. Savage just added three new models to the Stevens 320 shotgun line with a Turkey gun and two defensive shotguns both available chambered in 12-gauge and 20-gauge. The company says these new thumbhole stock pump-actions provide control and versatility and offer a new option for fans of the classic Stevens design. They’re to be available this holiday season.

“Our Stevens shotguns have proven to be very versatile for hunters and home defense,” Jessica Treglia, Sr. Brand Manager at Savage Arms, said. “And now we’re adding the thumbhole option to our 320 line with a new Turkey gun, and two different defensive shotguns. These shotguns are light, highly ergonomic, and built on the tested pump action that makes Stevens shotguns so reliable.”

The new 320 Thumbhole Security provides a new level of ergonomics to the tested 320 action. The 320 Security Thumbhole model combines a 18.5” barrel with a matte black forend and aggressive stock texturing. Each is available with either ghost ring sights or a traditional front bead sight. Both options are chambered in 12 gauge and 20 gauge.

320 Turkey Thumbhole Features

• Pump action shotgun with dual slide bars and rotary bolt
• 12 & 20 Gauge Options
• OD Green synthetic stock and forend
• Thumbhole stock with ambidextrous cheek riser and rugged grip textures
• Chrome alloy steel 22” matte black, ventilated rib barrel
• 3-inch chamber
• Swivel stud on stock and magazine cap
• Bottom-loading tube magazine (5+1 Capacity)
• Recoil pad
• Adjustable fiberoptic turkey sights
• Extended Extra Full Choke Tube (Win. Choke)

320 Thumbhole Security Features

• Pump action shotgun with dual slide bars and rotary bolt
• 12 & 20 Gauge Options
• Matte black synthetic stock and forend
• Thumbhole stock with ambidextrous cheek riser and rugged grip textures
• Chrome alloy steel 18.5” matte black security barrel
• 3-inch chamber
• Swivel stud on stock and magazine cap
• Bottom-loading tube magazine (5+1 Capacity)
• Recoil pad
• Ghost Ring Sight or Front Bead Sight models available.

⊕Bushnell

Elite Tactical Lightweight Modular Spotting Scope 

Gun News. Bushnell’s got a new spotting scope, with a couple of reticle options.

Two models of the scope are available, one with the TREMOR 4 reticle and the other with the HORUS H322 reticle. Bushnell advises that these reticles are ideal for spotting with any MRAD-based riflescope reticle. The H322 is suited for when real-time measured targeting information is required as well as when you’re looking for robust wind and drop compensation, target range estimation, and follow-up shot spotter communication capabilities. 

The TREMOR4 builds on the H322 and is designed as a companion to the TREMOR2, TREMOR3, or TREMOR5 riflescope reticles. According to Bushnell, it can be used with any ballistics, in any environmental conditions for excellent follow-up shot spotter communication capabilities.

From Bushnell:

The Elite Tactical LMSS2 combines compact elite-quality HD glass with a military-grade riflescope optical design. It builds on the original Lightweight Modular Spotting Scope (LMSS) with features including upgraded exterior lens coatings, updated HORUS reticle options and a power-change throw lever as well as other user control enhancements. Military personnel, law enforcement officers, competitive shooters and hunters can employ the LMSS2 to complement their Elite Tactical optics or other MIL-based riflescopes.

With a minimum magnification of eight power – an ideal setting when employed with night vision – and a maximum of 40 power, the LMSS2 Elite Tactical is one of the most versatile premium spotting scopes on the market. It comes with a detachable (3 user selectable positions) picatinny rail, giving users the ability to quickly and easily mount red dot sights for faster target acquisition or laser rangefinders. An optional, third party rail kit designed as a direct-connect, OEM system further expands the scope’s accessory compatibility. Other features contributing to versatility, performance and ease of use include a twist-up eyecup, fast-focus diopter, integral ¼-20 tripod connection and bottom accessory rail connections.

The 8-40x 60mm LMSS2 Elite Tactical measures 12.7 inches in length and weighs 37 ounces without rail. Color is flat dark earth and black. MSRP is $1,749.99. Lens caps and cleaning cloth are included.

LMSS2 Features

• ED Prime (HD) glass and fully multi-coated optics paired with ultra-wide-band coatings to allow for more light transmission in low-light situations, providing superior image brightness and color resolution
• Compact and lightweight HDOS system enables low-profile, lightweight construction without sacrificing resolution or contrast
• Aluminum alloy chassis construction is rugged and meets IXP7 waterproof standards; heavy-duty rubber overmold ensures that the glass and mechanical components are both secured and protected to maintain optical performance for years of use
• Bushnell’s exclusive EXO Barrier molecularly bonds to exterior lens surfaces and repels water, oil, fog, dust and debris so the user can see the target in any condition
• Throw Hammer PCR lever speeds up magnification changes and target engagements

Friday, October 23, 2020

⊕ NASGW Recognitions and Awards

Gun News. Several manufacturers were recognized this week by the National Associationof Sporting Goods Wholesalers (NASGW) at the Annual Appreciation and Caliber Awards during the associations virtual Expo and Annual Meeting.

Two manufacturers received honors for their tenth consecutive year. Hordady was named Ammunition Manufacturer of the Year and Leupold won Optics Manufacturer of the Year.

The Springfield Armory Hellcat OSP won 2020 Best New Handgun Award. According to SA, the Hellcat was recognized as the world’s highest capacity micro 9mm, combining exceptional ergonomics with outstanding performance and power. The Optical Sight Pistol (OSP) version was selected for the Caliber Award because it allows direct-mounting of the smallest modern red dot optics for co-witnessing with the pistol’s tritium U-Dot Tactical Rack sights.

The Ruger-57 was awarded the Caliber Award in the Best Overall New Product category, and the Mossberg 940 JM Pro competition shotgun won 2020’s Best New Shotgun Award.

⊕Daisy Outdoor Products

Special Edition Christmas Dream Red Ryder

Gun News. It’s only two months away guys, and what better gift to give your youngster than a Red Ryder BB Gun?

From Daisy:

This BB gun comes with a compass in the stock and a sundial for telling time. While it may not be the gun of choice for protecting the family from Black Bart or taking ducks on the wing, the new Daisy Christmas Dream is the perfect tool for teaching gun safety and marksmanship skills to the youth in your life.

This Special Edition Daisy BB Gun features the traditional fancy Red Ryder logo engraving on the left side of handsome wood stock. On the right side is an embedded working compass and a deep-set engraved sundial (a gnomon is included).

All Daisy Red Ryder BB Guns feature top-quality craftsmanship and wood stocks and forearms, and shoot at 350 feet per second. For more than 80 years the Red Ryder has been tops on every youth’s Christmas Wish List, and this Special Edition makes that dream come true. Generations have depended on Daisy to manufacture the tools that allow beginning shooters to learn gun safety and marksmanship in a safe manner, and the Christmas Dream Gun is made for that job. With a manual crossbolt safety and an adjustable rear sight and ramp/blade front sight, this lever action provides the experience of shooting a firearm in a low velocity, airgun situation.

⊕CMC Triggers

KRAGOS Glock Aftermarket Slide

Gun News. This new slide from CMC is named after a Greek God. Kragos (or Cragus) was a Lycian god identified with Zeus and humanized into a son of Tremiles. Mount Cragus is named after him and he was worshiped as the god of victory and strength. As CMC describes it, the aggressively sleek design and enhanced aesthetics of the KRAGOS  slide improve accuracy and performance without sacrificing reliability or concealment.

From CMC:

The KRAGOS is manufactured in a state-of-the-art facility to tighter tolerances than factory slides for increased consistency in barrel lockup, improving accuracy. Constructed from 17-4 stainless-steel billet, CMC’s KRAGOS™ Glock® Slides are then heat-treated to H900 42-44RC and coated with a Diamond-Like-Carbon (DLC) finish for added corrosion resistance and durability. DLC coatings exhibit a desirable combination of low coefficient friction and high micro-hardness, making it the perfect upgrade in high wear applications.

The KRAGOS Slide accepts factory or aftermarket barrels and parts, is the ideal upgrade for your factory Gen 3 Glock® 17 or Glock 19 pistols and pairs nicely with Polymer 80 frames for new custom gun builds.The KRAGOS features a wraparound scalloped serration pattern that improves grip while manipulating the slide, like press checking the chamber or clearing a malfunction. The 45-degree chamfer edge eases holster ingress and egress, preventing snags on gear. All slides come with standard Glock sight cuts equipped with tritium night sights and pre-cut optic pocket for the easy, secure, low-profile mounting that accommodates all red dot pistol optics that share an RMR footprint.

The KRAGOS Slide accepts factory or aftermarket barrels and parts, is the ideal upgrade for your factory Gen 3 Glock 17 or Glock 19 pistols and pairs nicely with Polymer 80 frames for new custom gun builds.

Features:

• Fits GEN3 Glock 17 & 19 Pistol Frames and Components
• 45-Degree Chamfer Edge to Ease Holster Ingress and Egress
• Machined from Corrosion Resistant 17-4 Stainless Steel Billet
• Heat Treated to H900 42-44RC
• Precision Wire EDM Breach Face
• Wear Resistant Black Diamond-Like-Carbon (DLC) Coating
• Preinstalled Tritium Night Sights on factory Glock® Front/Rear Cuts
• Accepts Factory and Aftermarket Barrels and Parts
• Pre-Cut RMR Footprint Mounting Slot Fits Trijicon, SOUSA RAID RPD
  and Holosun HE508T, HS507C, HS407C
• CMC’s 100% Lifetime Warranty

⊕Langdon Tactical Technology

Standalone 92 Elite LTT Red Dot Ready Slide

Gun News. Langdon Tactical now has a standalone 92 Elite LTT Red Dot Optic Ready Slide that is compatible with the 92 series pistol. With this slide, just bolt on your choice of RMR patterned micro-red dot, assemble the slide to your frame, and zero your pistol. LTT says it will work on all full-size 92 FS models and forward, Brigadiers and M9A1 frames.

“We’ve taken our Red Dot Ready Optic Cut for the 92 slides and made it available as a complete stand-alone slide,” says, Ernest Langdon, President and CEO of Langdon Tactical. “You can now upgrade almost any 92 series pistol to take a red dot.” The slides are built-out with a front sight post and adapter plate already installed. Consumers will need to use their existing barrel, guide rod and recoil spring, however, Langdon added, “We would encourage customers to replace their locking block and barrel with a complete barrel assembly for proper fit with a brand new slide.”

⊕Nightstick

New Compact Tactical Weapon-Mounted Light w/Green Laser

Gun News. Nightstick’s newest TCM-Series compact LED handgun weapon light has a daylight-visible 532nm green aiming laser that the company says offers maximum visibility in all conditions. Nightstick also says the light shares the same intuitive dual rear-facing switches that are standard on the TCM-550XL and XLS (strobe) models, providing tactile, click actuation in momentary or constant-on use.

“Based on great feedback from our successful launch of the TCM-550XL, we heard an overwhelming demand for a green laser version of the same weapon light,” says Russell Hoppe, Marketing Director for Nightstick. “Consulting with our engineers, we accepted the challenge and designed a one-piece, fully-machined aluminum weapon light body that incorporated a rugged and powerful day-light visible green laser. The green aiming laser adds alignment confirmation and added peace of mind in a defensive or tactical situation when life depends on light.”

Gun News From Nightstick:

The TCM-550XL-GL features a compact TIR (Total Internal Reflection) lens delivering a 550-lumen bright white beam, rated for 2.5 hours that illuminates objects up to 136 meters (446 feet) away. Weighing in at a featherweight 2.5 ounces, constructed of aircraft-grade aluminum and rated as IP-X7 waterproof, this weapon light is engineered to provide robust illumination and bright laser aiming point during critical low-light threat identification and target discrimination. The light, laser, or light & laser modes can be deployed on demand by holding one switch down while toggling through the modes with the alternate. The laser is easily zeroed to the user’s preferred distance with built-in elevation and windage adjusters. The weapon light also features a bezel-activated ‘safe mode’ battery lockout, eliminating accidental activation of the light and laser during storage or transportation.

Designed to fit a broad range of handguns, the newest TCM features a spring-loaded rail clamp and convenient coin-cut screw head for toolless installation. Ready to install out of the box, the light includes five handgun-specific rail inserts, laser adjustment Allen wrench, and one CR123 lithium battery. The TCM-550XL-GL is backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

⊕Beretta

New Line of Hunting Knives

Not Gun News, but still pretty badass. Beretta’s new line of hunting knives is made in Italy with French 440C Inox steel. They’ve got walnut handles bonded with orange G10 fiberglass for greater durability. The line includes fixed and folding blades as well as a three-blade knife.

From Beretta:

Designed in cooperation with Maserin, an Italian knives manufacturer, this new line utilizes hand-selected materials chosen for their quality standards. The French 440C Inox Steel used to craft the blades is ideal for hunting as it is hard enough to keep the edge sharp after repeated use, yet soft enough for easy sharpening (when needed) and guarantees high resistance to rust and corrosion.

“When our first Gallery store opened in the US in the late 1990s, the search was on to fill the store with products that reflected the hunting pursuits. The clear objective outside of apparel and gun accessories was to find ways to round out the customer experience, and knives became a key focus. Throughout the years, we have worked with top Global and US suppliers to explore ways to bring the Beretta innovation from firearms into this adjacent category. Our relationship with Maserin knife supplier has strengthened, and we are excited to launch this new series of hunting and gentleman knives to the US market. A classic approach to a new steel mold and stamping technologies mixed with clever branding aesthetics gives authentic personality to this collection,” Patrick Mocorro, Digital P.A.C. Sales Manager & Clothing – Accessories Business Leader, said.

Beretta Eland Fixed Blade Knife

Details:

• Blade: AISI 440 Stainless Steel
• Grip: Walnut and G10
• Hole for additional string
• Blade Length: 4 in
• Overall Length: 8in
• Sheath: Cow Leather (no chemicals) Contains a loop for attatchment to belt
• Weight: .5lbs

Beretta Bushbuck Folding Knife

Details:

• Blade AISI 440 Stainless Steel 
• Grip: Walnut and G10
• Blade: 3.3 in
• Overall Length: 8.8

Beretta Duiker Three Blade Knife

Details: 

• Blade: AISI 400 Stainless Steel 
• Grip: Walnut and G10
• Blade Length: 3 in
• Overall Length: 7 in

Friday, October 16, 2020

⊕Over 250 Agencies Approve Staccato 2011 Pistols for Duty

Gun News. This week, Staccato 2011, LLC reached a milestone. Over 250 law enforcement agencies have approved Staccato 2011 pistols for duty use, including LA County Sheriffs, Long Beach Police Department, and Riverside County Sheriffs. According to reports, several factors weigh in on the expanding adoption of the pistols by LE agencies. Beyond functional aspects like reliability and fit, Staccato offers training opportunities and transitional support.

Buck Pierson (USMC GySgt ret.), Staccato’s Director of Law Enforcement and Military Business said, “Departments are approving Staccato 2011 pistols for their superior performance in qualification tests that include pistol reliability, accuracy, and ergonomics/efficiency. Departments are also choosing Staccato for our partnership mentality and ongoing support. We provide free 2011 transition courses for law enforcement, a 2011 armorers course, and other specialized on-site department instruction. Instruction is led by senior Staccato team members like Mike Pannone [former US Marine Reconnaissance, Army Special Forces (Green Beret), 1st SFOD-D (Delta) and the Asymmetric Warfare Group)], Matt Little (former Army Special Forces and Chicago PD SWAT), and Master Gunsmiths.”

As a company, Staccato is a Veteran-led, Texas-based company that voices its pride in serving those who daily protect our freedoms. The company provides a discount on pistols and magazines to law enforcement, military, and first responders. 

“We forged our first law enforcement relationships under two years ago. In this short amount of time, the positive response for Staccato has been humbling; we are proud to serve thousands of officers who carry our pistols both on and off-duty,” said Marine Corps veteran Nate Horvath, CEO, Staccato.

⊕Sig Custom Works

The Nightmare is Back with this New Limited Edition Series

Gun News. Sig took the old Nightmare look and applied it to three classics. This limited edition series includes the P220, P226, and P229 — all treated with the blacked-out Custom Works engraved slide and blacked-out frame with nickel-plated contrasting controls. These are the first SIG pistols to be fitted with a Hogue Classic Contour SL G-10 Grip

From Sig Custom:

The Nightmare Series P226 and P229 are chambered in 9mm with the P220 chambered in 45ACP, each is equipped with X-Ray 3 day/night sights and 3 magazines. The Custom Works Nightmare Series comes packaged in a premium Custom Works Negrini pistol case complete with a SIG Custom Works challenge coin and a certified custom certificate.

Read more at Sig Sauer: 

⊕Davidson’s

Announces Exclusive Ruger Wrangler

Gun News. Davidson’s just announced another partnership with Ruger resulting in an exclusive version of the Wrangler 22LR single-action revolver. The frame and barrel are coated with Plum Brown Cerakote, the cylinder is aluminum, and the hammer and trigger are stainless steel.

Kane Cannedy, Davidson’s VP of Purchasing said, “Ruger has long been one of our favorite manufacturing partners to produce Davidson’s Exclusives. We knew from day one of the Wrangler’s introduction that there would be Davidson’s Exclusives coming.”

From Davidson’s

Since its introduction the Ruger Wrangler has been a huge hit with shooters of all ages and backgrounds. From recreational shooting to rimfire competitions to training new shooters – a single-action chambered in 22LR is a great choice for firearm enthusiasts.

Item#2021 has a very economical MSRP of $208. Due to its popularity, this exclusive offering will initially be allocated to FFL holders. However, consumers can find this item by visiting GalleryofGuns.com and using the Retailer Search function to find their local Davidson’s Gallery of Guns dealer.

⊕SK Customs

Announces “The Mana”

Gun News. This is Part One of a Two-Part limited edition production designer series of Colt 1911 .38 Super Series 70 model. Part One collectors will have first rights to the matching special edition number on Part Two. The artistry and symbolism featured on this 1911 represent Polynesian Ethos.

Here’s how the company describes it:

The custom limited-edition gun is scheduled to begin shipping October 2020 and the company is currently taking reservations for special edition numbers now.

From SK Customs:

Polynesian Ethos believes that anyone or anything have an actual spiritual lifeforce energy or healing power that permeates the universe. It is this belief that is referred to as Mana. To have Mana implies influence, authority, and efficacy in the ability to perform in a given situation. To embody this spirit in a firearm, SK Customs started with a full-size Colt 1911 Classic chambered in .38 Super and then added Polynesian symbols and designs to visually and physically bring Mana to life. The result is a high-quality firearm that is also a functioning work of art made up of spiritual and meaningful characters of the M?ori tribe.

The MANA features a high polished royal blued slide with Polynesian inspired motifs extensively etched in 24kt Gold and a Diamond studded front sight. Gold plated hardware including the magazine release, grip screws, barrel bushing and hammer. Pueo (Owls) are black etched on each Ivory Scrimshaw finished grips and a High-Polished Stainless-Steel national match barrel completes the package. Each gun in this numbered edition series will be sequentially numbered from 001 to 200.

MANA Specifications

• High polished Silver national matched barrel.
• Gold plated and high polished magazine release, grip screws, barrel bushing and spurred hammer with extensively 24k Gold etched motifs inspired by Polynesian Ethos, complemented by a
• Diamond studded front sight and
• Ivory Scrimshaw finished black etched grips.
• Limited-edition editorial insert and
• Every firearm has its own limited-edition series number from 001 of 200 Gold etched behind the right slide serrations

⊕CCI Ammunition

Maxi-Mag Clean-22 Segmented Hollow Point 22 WMR

Gun News. A year and a half ago, CCI announced a new rimfire product line with technology that reduces fouling in rimfire firearms. Clean-22 ammo has polymer coating on the bullets which reduces copper and lead fouling in the barrel, and doesn’t leave a residue. According to CCI, Clean-22 ammo cuts lead buildup in suppressors by 60-80 percent. Now, the line has expanded.

According to Dan Compton, CCI Product Line Manager, “New Maxi-Mag Clean-22 SHP is the industry’s only segmenting hollow-point bullet in 22 WMR. Personally, I like its Olive Drab Green color on the bullet which gives it a hunting look, and I can’t wait to hear stories and see photos from our happy customers who use this new magnum rimfire round on prairie dog towns, in the squirrel woods, and for their fur trapping efforts.”

From CCI:

The Clean-22 coating technology that made rimfire clean is now being used to extend the range and power of 22 WMR. New CCI Maxi-Mag Clean-22 Segmented Hollow Point (SHP) uses an exclusive polymer bullet coating to greatly reduce copper and lead fouling in the barrel—without leaving a residue. Shipments of this new product have begun to arrive at dealers.

The 46-grain SHP bullet splits into three equal-size pieces on impact, tripling the number of wound channels. The polymer bullet coating allows this separation at much lower velocities and longer distances than a conventional copper jacket. The bullet’s overall geometry is optimized for accuracy, and dependable CCI priming and propellant provide flawless cycling through semi-automatics and all 22 WMR firearms.

Features & Benefits

• The industry’s only segmenting hollow-point bullet in 22 WMR
• Polymer bullet coating greatly reduces lead fouling in the barrel without leaving residue
• Allows expansion at lower velocities than copper-jacketed bullets
• Reduces the risk of penetration through the target and beyond
• Optimized bullet geometry for improved accuracy
• 50-count box

⊕Magpul

Announces One-Day Sale of Limited Edition Frame Lock Knife

It’s called the Rigger, and Magpul says there are only going to be 200 of them for sale. Each one has it’s unique production number laser-etched into it. Sale day is October 30th at 12:00 PM EST at the Magpul website. The company says sales will be first come, first served. To allow as many interested buyers as possible to have access to this knife, buyers will only be able to purchase one.

From Magpul:

The Rigger’s modified Wharncliffe blade includes a tapered dual bevel grind and is forged from CPM S35VN, which is considered to be one of the best knife stainless steels in the world. It’s designed to require minimal sharpening and maintenance while maximizing its utility and overall strength. Housed in a titanium 6Al4V frame, a jimped flipper deploys and locks the blade and an innovative secondary locking mechanism keeps the blade secure during demanding use. At 7.59 ” when open and 4.52″ when closed, the Rigger is perfect for everyday carry. It also includes a titanium pocket clip and a lanyard hole to keep it secure.

The Rigger comes in a custom, high strength, injection-molded case that was inspired by our legendary PMAG.

Friday, October 9, 2020

 GunMag Gun News for the second week in October 2020.

⊕USCCA Membership has Grown to Half a Million Members

As firearm & ammunition sales continue to skyrocket, demand for training and legal protection does too. The United States Concealed Carry Association, an organization that provides self-defense education, training and legal protection to responsible American gun owners, reports that membership has grown to half a million in 2020. 

From USCCA:

This surge in membership demonstrates that as Americans embrace their Second Amendment rights, firearms education and training remains a top priority. After experiencing an all-time record month of membership sales in June, with momentum continuing in the succeeding months, the USCCA also reported a 620 percent increase in online training and education courses through the first nine months of 2020 compared to all of 2019.

According to founder Tim Schmidt, “Record numbers of Americans are embracing their Second Amendment rights and in doing so, they are turning to the USCCA for industry-leading self-defense education, training, and legal protection. Our mission is to help save lives and so it is both incredible and humbling that more than 500,000 Americans have now joined the USCCA on their self-defense journey. While owning a gun is one thing, knowledge on how to use it is everything, and our work is only just beginning as we continue on our quest to help all Americans become the best protectors they can be.”

⊕Honey Badger Pistol Reclassified by ATF

Gun News. The ATF has caused a stir in the world of firearms by changing its stance on the pistol brace and the Honey Badger Pistol.

After years of pistol brace approval, the ATF has done an about-face, now classifying the Honey Badger pistol as a Short Barrel Rifle SBR, with an implication that the pistol stabilizing brace is part of the reclassification. As a Short Barrel Rifle SBR the Honey Badger falls under NFA regulations including a $200 transfer tax.

The letter specifically cites the inclusion of a “proprietary ‘pistol stabilizing brace’” produced by SB Tactical, stating that the brace gives the Honey Badger an overall length of approximately 20-25 inches, with a barrel seven inches long.

Gun owners are questioning the validity of the ruling, and whether the Honey Badger is much different from other AR-style pistols, which have grown in popularity in the past decade. And, as some point out, SB Tactical has been the driving force in the AR pistol market from the beginning.

Q, LLC and SB Tactical are encouraging gun owners to fight this reclassification by contacting their Congressional leadership and the Department of Justice to ask for a reversal of this determination.

“This arbitrary approach is creating confusion and uncertainty for millions of law-abiding citizens, manufacturers, retailers, and wholesalers,” said an SB Tactical statement. “SB Tactical is the inventor of the Pistol Stabilizing Brace and is deeply committed to our customers, the Second Amendment, and the rule of law. The ATF’s approach is unfair and unlawful.”

The NRA also chimed in on the issue: “The NRA strongly disagrees with this arbitrary, inequitable, and incorrect determination by ATF that puts millions of firearms owners in danger of federal prosecution. Rather than create a clear set of rules that law-abiding gun owners and manufactures can follow, ATF seems to be taking an “I’ll know it when I see it” approach to classifying firearms. This arbitrary approach is clearly inconsistent with the right to keep and bear arms and due process of law. By blurring the lines on legal definitions that carry serious criminal consequences, ATF is putting law-abiding gun owners, the firearm industry, and law enforcement in the impossible position of attempting to read the minds of ATF bureaucrats when complying with or applying federal law.”  

P320 AXG Scorpion

Gun News. This is Sig’s first pistol from the Custom Works group, and it’s also the first P320 manufactured at Sig Sauer that has the aluminum grip module. The grip module features an improved beavertail, grip panels, and insert. With this design, the pistol can be customized to user needs and preferences. From Sig:

• One-piece aluminum upper receiver
• Accepts 2 3/4” and 3” magnum shells
• 18.5” smoothbore barrel
• Ambidextrous AR15 style controls
• 2 x 5 round magazines standard
• Weighs only 6.5lbs

Gun News. Federal has introduced this new handgun hunting load to take advantage of the 10mm Auto cartridge. It has a 200-grain bullet with a 1200 fps muzzle velocity.  From Federal: Fusion Handgun features the same molecularly fused bullet construction as its rifle counterparts for the toughness, accuracy and terminal performance short-barrel hunters need. The loads’ bullet weights and velocities have also been optimized to be lethal on deer without punishing the shooter.

Features & Benefits

• New 10mm Auto load
• 1,200 fps muzzle velocity
• Copper jacket is electro-chemically to the core
• Perfectly uniform jacket
• Skived, pre-programmed nose provides consistent expansion
• Maximum weight retention for deep penetration

Read more at Federal: https://www.federalpremium.com/

⊕HAWKE Optics 

New Red Dot And Reflex Sights

Gun News. Hawke, a sporting optics company headquartered in the United Kingdom, has expanded into red dots ARs, hunting firearms, and handguns. Here are the goods.

From Hawke:

⊕Primary Arms

SLx 1×20 Prism Scope with Green Illuminated Reticle

Gun News. PA’s latest iteration of the SLx 1x Prism features a green-illuminated reticle. 

The SLx 1×20 Prism Scope with ACSS Cyclops reticle is one of the most popular low-magnification prism scopes on the market, mirroring the performance of a red dot or reflex sight with an etched reticle that eliminates astigmatic distortion.

Friday, October 2, 2020

A lot of things happened in the firearm world this week, from President Trump’s nomination of Amy Barrett for SCOTUS to the bankruptcy and sell-off of Remington, and more.

Barrett’s nomination is supported by the NSSF, the NCLA, the ADF, and the SAF. Don’t know what those acronyms refer to? Calm down, they’re all Pro-2A organizations and they’re all backing Barrett.

Remington? Well, the ages-old company has been sold off at bankruptcy court. Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. got Marlin Firearms. Vista got Remington Ammunition. Sierra Bullets got Barnes, and Franklin Armory got Bushmaster. Sportsman’s Warehouse got TapCo, and Roundhill Group got Remington’s manufacturing facility in Ilion, New York.

But there’s more! Keep reading.

⊕FN America to Supply the U.S. Army with M249 Squad Automatic Weapons

Gun News. FN says that they expect to complete the firm-fixed-price contract to supply the M249 SAW to the U.S. Army by 2025. In addition to the M249 and its variants, FN currently holds contracts for the FN M240 medium machine gun and its variants; the FN MK 46, MK 48, MK 17 and MK 20 SSR for USSOCOM, and various other contracts.

Mark Cherpes, President and CEO for FN America said, “We are honored to continue our dedication as a critical partner to the U.S. military and pleased to announce this latest Army contract award for the FN M249 SAW, a flagship design for FN, in service for more than 30 years. The proven design has served the U.S. military, reliably and without fail. We look forward to building these machine guns at our production facility in Columbia, South Carolina.”

From FN:

The FN M249 SAW has been a mainstay throughout the U.S. military since 1986 and is currently in service in more than 30 countries globally. FN has been the sole source manufacturer of the 5.56-chambered belt-fed lightweight machine gun.

Designed for front-line applications delivering crucial support at the infantry squad/fire team level, the FN M249 SAW provides accurate fire from a highly maneuverable light machine gun. The ergonomic polymer buttstock contains a hydraulic buffer that allows SAW gunners to maintain a high rate of fire with accuracy and effect.

⊕U.S. Coast Guard Chooses GLOCK 19 Gen5 MOS for Standard Service Pistol

Josh Dorsey, GLOCK, Inc. VP said, “GLOCK is honored to support the requirements of the USCG and provide a weapon solution that delivers on unmatched performance and value in any environment. The comprehensive testing and evaluation process conducted by CBP demonstrated the GLOCK pistols lasting reliability that instills confidence in those who use it to go into harm’s way.” From Glock:

The USCG operates under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security during peacetime with a maritime law enforcement mission with jurisdiction in domestic and international waters. The USCG is charged with protecting America’s economic, national, and border security as America’s maritime first responder.

With missions of search and rescue, homeland security, and national defense, the USCG requires a reliable sidearm that performs in all conditions and harsh elements. After careful evaluation of existing federal contracts supported by GLOCK, the USCG selected to purchase through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) contract the GLOCK 19 Gen5 MOS as the standard service pistol. USCG acquisition objective was fulfilled by GLOCK within four months of the initial purchase request. CBP’s extensive solicitation process, which included independent testing by the Institute of Justice Laboratories, comprehensive field evaluations, and direct input from 16,000 CBP law enforcement personnel, helped guide the selection by USCG.  

⊕Springfield Armory

Model 2020

Gun News. Springfield Armory’s new line of hunting rifles is the Model 2020 Waypoint. Chambered in your choice of .308 Win, 6mm Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor, and 6.5 PRC, the Model 2020 Waypoint is offered in two stock configurations, and two finishes. Also, the barrels are available in carbon fiber or stainless steel. SA reports that each Model 2020 has a .75″ MOA accuracy guarantee thanks to the action’s integral recoil lug, fluted bolt, dual cocking cams, and enhanced extractor. Oh! And it’s got a TriggerTech trigger!!

“The Model 2020 has arrived and marks a new dawn for modern bolt-action rifles from Springfield Armory,” said company CEO Dennis Reese. “It sets the standard for precision manufacturing, performance and accuracy from a premium, American-made rifle.”

From Springfield Armory:

Dual locking lugs on the fluted bolt run smoothly down EDM raceways for perfect, repeatable engagement while an optimized extraction cam provides robust, reliable extraction in any condition. Additionally, the bolt features dual cocking cams for ease of operation and toolless disassembly for maintenance. Providing strength and repeatability is an integral machined recoil lug, and electrical discharge machining (EDM) of the bolt lug raceways ensures precision dimensions and smooth cycling.

An enlarged ejection port, sliding extractor — for reliable operation in the most adverse conditions — and hybrid dual-plane feed ramp deliver reliable and repeatable performance. The trigger is the most important interface between the rifle and shooter. The Waypoint’s trigger from TriggerTech features a low-profile, non-snag safety and employs the company’s Frictionless Release Technology™. It’s adjustable from 2.5 – 5 pounds with a patented, free-floating roller for a crisp, clean and repeatable pull.

⊕Nightstick

Introduces Dedicated Long-Gun Lighting Kit

Gun News. Nightstick has three models in this line of weapon lights. According to Nightstick, these new high-power long-gun lighting options represent the pinnacle of performance in close combat/defense illumination technology for rifles, carbines, and shotguns with MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) rails.

“Our LGL Series is engineered to be as flexible as they are powerful, giving both law enforcement and gun owners alike multiple mounting and activation options up to a segment-leading 1,500 lumens,” says Russell Hoppe, Director of Marketing. “We designed these LGL-Series kits for both tactical and self-defense situations where intuitive activation and reliable performance are paramount.”

From Nightstick:

Model LGL-150 features a compact body running on a single CR123 battery producing 450-lumens of crisp downrange lighting for two hours, illuminating objects and threats up to 220 meters (721 feet) away. Weighing in at only 4.2 ounces and made of 6061-T6 aluminum with a black hard-anodized satin finish, the LGL-150 is IP-X7 rated waterproof.

Sharing the same rugged construction and waterproof rating, the LGL-160 Full-Size Long Gun Light Kit more than doubles the output to 1,100 lumens and 22,541 candela. With a longer 300-meter beam from two included CR123 batteries, the LGL-160 provides powerful downrange light for two hours.

The all-in Nightstick LGL-170 Rechargeable Long Gun Light Kit generates a daylight-like whopping 1,500 lumens and 23,148 candela for an hour and a half and boasts a 304-meter beam distance. The fully equipped LGL-170 model comes with two 18650 li-ion batteries and a USB charger for hot-swapping convenience, with the multi-fuel flexibility to run optionally on two CR123 batteries.

⊕BlackHeart

Launches Max Sling Line

Gun News. BlackHeart’s new Max Sling has a non-slip pad and is fully adjustable. It comes with a 12″ neoprene scope cover and plenty of room to store your rangefinder, ammo, scope cover, and other accessories in the accessory pocket.

From BlackHeart: The Max Sling line of premium gun slings are sure to stand out and turn heads in the field or at the range. The Max Sling provides a 16″ x 3.5″ neoprene pad with non-slip backing. What makes the Max Sling truly unique is the fact it’s two for the price of one. Not only is it a gun sling, but it also includes a 12″ neoprene scope cover. Shooters can now protect their rifle scope to and from the hunt or range. BlackHeart also made storage of the neoprene scope cover super easy. The neoprene scope cover conveniently stores in the Max sling’s built-in neoprene storage pocket. The storage pocket is also a perfect on-the-go storage option for rangefinders, ammo, camo face paint, and additional firearm tools and accessories. The Max Sling is offered in both black and a Bottomlands Camo edition. The

Max Sling retails for $32.99 and features:

• 16″ x 3.5″ Neoprene Pad with Non-Slip Backing
• Includes 12″ Neoprene Scope Cover
• Neoprene Storage Pocket for Rangefinders, Ammo, Scope Covers, etc.
• Fully-Adjustable with 1.25″ Nylon Slider Hardware and Metal Swivels
• Moisture-Wicking Neoprene

⊕Viridian

Announces New E-Series Laser Sight for Taurus TX 22

Gun News. Viridian says this new red laser sight will add versatility and speed to the TX 22, Taurus’s in-demand semiautomatic rimfire.

From Viridian:

The Taurus TX 22 E-Series Laser Sight will add a new dimension to the popular plinking platform and will offer a dynamic stand-in for those who want to train with a semiautomatic without the increasing expense of centerfire ammunition.

“Taurus makes exceptional firearms,” said Viridian President and CEO Brian Hedeen. “We are proud to work with Taurus’s product development team to offer Taurus customers lasers tailormade for their guns. With its performance trigger and exceptional ergonomics, the TX 22 offers shooters a tremendous amount of potential, and this new laser will add even more to the platform.”

Viridian’s E-Series line is purpose built for everyday carry and home defense and is equally useful on the range. The E-Series Laser Sights easily mount to the trigger guard and rail of the TX 22, and feature an ambidextrous on/off button that is readily accessible with the trigger finger. Each laser has a 5-minute auto shut off to help preserve battery life.

Read more at Viridian: https://viridianweapontech.com/

⊕Leupold

Launches New SX-2 Alpine HD Spotting Scope

Gun News. According to Leupold, this new spotting scope has features that are designed to help you see more in less light. The Twilight Max Light Management System intensifies ambient light in extreme low-light environments. It also and reduces wash out with glare management. Two models are now available, both in an angled configuration: one a 20-60x60mm model, the other a 20-60x80mm.

“The SX-2 Alpine HD delivers exactly what hunters and shooters want in a spotting scope, and it does it in a price class that you’re not going to be able to beat,” said Zach Bird, Product Line Manager for Leupold & Stevens, Inc. “Our in-house optical engineers are working every day here in Beaverton, Ore., to bring consumers the product quality they deserve, and the SX-2 is the perfect example – it’s lightweight, rugged, clear, and exactly what you’ll need whether you’re spending the day at the range or heading out in the field.”

From Leupold:

Packed with features, the SX-2 Alpine HD delivers where it counts. The Diamondcoat lenses are scratch-resistant and will stand up to the roughest conditions. High definition lens coatings provide for bright, clear images, and its Guard-ion lens coating sheds dirt and water with ease.

A rotating tripod adjustment ring allows for more flexibility when glassing large areas. The spotter provides incredibly sharp images with an ultra-smooth focus and reduces glare with an integrated, adjustable sun shade.

It’s tough, too, providing superior ruggedness that has been tested for extreme climates. The SX-2 Alpine HD is waterproof, fog-proof, and guaranteed for life.