I wanted to start a thread so that we could discuss any and all things gun related, that is why I'm keeping the topic very general. If you have something in particular you want to discuss and want feedback that is more specific to your topic then don't hesitate to start a new thread.
I'll add a few pics to get some conversation going. Please note that I am not a photographer and I am using my 2 year old phone in my kitchen with overcast natural lighting coming through the window.
If this thread dies.....it dies (Rocky IV reference).
I've been struggling with the decision to sell my last AKMs. I shipped my two SLR-107FR to the FFL handling the transfer for their buyer just this morning. That leaves me with (3) SLR-106FR (5.56) to sell. I keep wondering if I'd be better off keeping them and selling my ARs. Since I have FN Scars (my go to primary guns) I find the AR15 design redundant. The AKM, on the other hand, is so crude and simple it serves a slightly different purpose: end of the world beater.
I will not keep both the ARs and AKs. One has to go. We simply don't need 250,000,000 rifles.
Rich - I remeber you talking about that rifle a while back. I'm interested in seeing your range report. I had a Ruger Mini-Thirty that I really liked, but I sold it because I was afraid to run Russian ammo through since they load theirs with .309 - .310 diameter bullets.
Gary - Thank you. I bought the 29 - 2 kind of as a novelty, but now I love that gun. The 325PD is my carry pistol for the moment. Now I'm looking at a Kahr CM45 if they ever make it to the market.
So, that being said, here's my two babies I keep talking about. Yeah, I really like these shotguns.
First up is the PA459-TR with Dark Reaper (skull pattern) camo.
Next up is the semi auto version. Basic black.
They are light weight, about 6.5 pounds and fast handling. They have screw in chokes (benelli or beretta mobile choke systems) and they have really good (soft) recoil pads. Who needs a 12ga.
Well I am in the process of working up some loads for my .375H&H with Woodleigh Hyrdostatically Stabilised 300gn projectiles.... at $56 per 20 projectiles (alone) I hope my first attempts at decent groups are successful....LOL
Then I am also waiting for my Steyr SSG trigger guard to get back from the gunsmith so I can get that all screwed together...
Benellis and Berettas are still made in Italy. Stoeger is owned by Beretta, but they're still made in Turkey. Not sure about Franchi.
I stand corrected and thank you for the information. I just took for granted that since they used the benelli/beretta choke systems that they were made there.
I do not like having to keep two sets of chokes for basically identical shotguns (from the same manufacturer).
That does seem kind of goofy. I remember when I had my Berretta semi (beretta copy of the Benelli, WAY back in the 90's it was a very thin walled barrel.
I just took for granted that since they used the benelli/beretta choke systems that they were made there.
Benelli has two different chokes systems now. My M2 uses the Crio System, but my M1 uses the original Benelli pattern choke.
They are not interchangeable.
The Crio chokes are for thin wall cryogenically treated barrels only.
My weatherby's are the mobile choke system, and they are ported. I WAS going to put a scope of somekind, a reflex in particular, but I've since changed my mind and am going to leave them be for now. I was just (In the back of my mind) bothered by something sticking up on top of a shotguns receiver. I guess I am REAL old school.
Don't you already have something sticking up on the receiver? Those open sights are enormous. That's ok as long as they work, and I assume they do or else you would've said something by now.
Lets talk about favorite non-hunting pistol cartridges. I'm sure most here prefer 9mm or .40, but I'm a big bore guy so I like .45acp. I've even thought about buying a .50GI conversion for my Glock 21 just for grins. The only thing that is stopping me is the ammo is proprietary.
22LR - training and small game 380Acp - when you can't carry anything else (and BUG) 9mm - when you need lots of rounds 45Acp - preferred self defense option
10mm - best handgun cartridge IMHO (when loaded to real 10mm level unlike 99% of factory ammo). It shoots flat to 100yards, has the recoil of a 40SW, is ballisticaly superior to a 357 Magnum, enough velocity and power for use against 2 and 4 legged predators, is a cross over hunting round, and lastly...is available in a 15rd Glock.
Personally I also like a .45. First pistol I ever bought was an H&R Sidkick with a 2 inch barrel. Couldn't hit a barn at 2 feet with that thing! (I was 16 when I bought it). My next was a Llama 45. Not the most accurate either, but got me enamored with the mighty 45!
If 10mm ammunition wasn't $1.50 / round (when you can find it loaded to real 10mm levels...not 40SW levels) I wouldn't own a 45Acp. There isn't anything a 45Acp can do that a 10mm cannot do better.
10mm is an ideal round for people who live in rural areas. It is probably less than ideal for urbanites. Over penetration could be an issue in a crowd.
Since 10mm is so expensive I have a couple of HKs in 45Acp. They're not the best gun for concealed carry, but I appreciate the quality, 100% reliability, and extreme durability / lifespan. The HK USP 45 and HK45 Series are the Busse of the handgun world. There are prettier, and more expensive...but not really anything that is better (overall).
The best shooting handgun I've ever owned was a 45Acp. Les Baer.
I think the 10mm is a GREAT round, but I always considered it a hunting round even though it never really was intended to be. It's a shame it never really gained very much popularity, but it looks like that might be changing.
Gary, when the whole Bren 10 thing started I thought the problem with the 10mm was that it had to much recoil for the "Average" cop.
The FBI issued the S&W 1006 uniformly to all agents. Small statured female agents complained about the recoil. Companies responded by reducing the powder charge to 40SW levels. Someone relized there was unused case capacity and cut it down...suddenly the 40 Short & Weak was born.
I've owned 25-30 40SW handguns, and three 10mm. I cannot tell much of a difference shooting 175gr Silvertip Hollow Points through a Glock 20SF as compared to shooting 180gr Hydrashoks through a Glock 23.
I've sold all of my 40SWs because I didn't like the recoil. I know this sounds hypocritical, but consider this...
The 40Sw is typically squeezed into a 9mm package while the 10mm is typically rattling around in a 45Acp package. The larger frame more than makes up the difference in the 10mm's recoil.
10mm recoil is exaggerated on the errornets. Its much like the so called stopping power of the 45acp. Does a 10mm recoil more than a 9mm? Yes. However, a medium frame 357 Mag is MUCH worse. MUCH MUCH worse. Does the 45Acp have the ability to stop an assailant? Yes. Will it "blow him clean off his feet" (as I've read repeatedly). Absolutely not. Shot placement, bullet selection, clothing penetrated, etc all contribute to the success or failure of the round's performance.
I've only shot one .40, and I HATED the recoil. The plate in my wrist didn't like that snappy little round, and I have no problem tolerating full house .44 mag loads.
I think the 10mm is a GREAT round, but I always considered it a hunting round even though it never really was intended to be. It's a shame it never really gained very much popularity, but it looks like that might be changing.
The problem with 10mm is the availability of full house ammo. If Federal or someone similar would start offering 175gr x 1250pfs ammo consistently....you'd see a whole lot of 45Acps going up for sale. Unfortunately, nobody seems interested in offering a good cartridge.
I've only shot one .40, and I HATED the recoil. The plate in my wrist didn't like that snappy little round, and I have no problem tolerating full house .44 mag loads.
Agreed. 40SW recoil is "abrupt". Many people complain about it. 10mm is nothing like it.
45Acp tend to "push". 9mm tend to "muzzle flip". 40SW tend to "snap". 10mm tend to be a combination of 9 and 45. They sort of "push up and back quickly".
My LEAST favorite non-hunting HG round is 38 Special. This is because of the guns chambered for it. An Airweight J-Frame with +P ammo SUCKS in the recoil department. If I were to have a full size 357 bore revolver it would be a 357 Mag that I shot 38Spl through for fun. This, in my opinion, is the only purpose for the round.
I carried a Smith J-Frame as a BUG for A LOT of years. Hate them.
I've got an S&W 357 Model 60-10 (I think). Anyway it's a 5 shot 3inch SS 357 mag that carries really nice. I don't traditionally like revolvers, and it's one of only two that I own. The other is my Ruger .357 Convertible with the secondary 9mm cylinder.
I'm a revolver guy. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE revolvers. My carry gun is a revolver that shoots .45acp. It's huge but it is made of scandium and titanium alloys so the weight isn't noticeable.
I use flexible plastic clips at the range. You have to be careful which ammo you use. If the cases aren't crimped on the projectiles properly then the recoil can cause them to become dislodged from the cases. I discovered this when the cylinder wouldn't rotate after the first shot. The projectiles had worked themselves forward out of the cases because there's no magazine to keep them contained. I had to reseat them with a stick so the cylinder would swing out.
For those of you with children old enough, what was the first firearm you gave them?
My dad gave me an old Springfield single shot .22 bolt action rifle and a bolt action .410 shotgun that he had bought from an old widow for my 10th birthday. I'd love to give the .22 to my son when he's old enough, but it doesn't have a safety and it is a pain to caulk and de-caulk (censors won't let me say [censored]). That breaks my heart because I wanted to continue the tradition. I think I'll be getting him a Savage Rascal with a wooden stock instead, hopefully he can continue the tradition with his son.
It might have been this thread, but mine was an Iver Johnson Single shot hammer fired 20ga. I was 9 or 10. I couldn't even kock it, had to use both hands. I'd put the stock between my legs and grab the hammer with both thumbs on it and could kock it.
When I was growing up I lived in a very rural area in an arid climate. When we went shooting we just loaded up the truck and headed for the boonies (about a mile down a dirt road). There was a natural wash that was dry 99% of the time, so we just got in the bottom and did our shooting. Good times.
We don't have that where I live now, so I'm going to get on the two year long waiting list for the local gun club. My son will be a little closer to shooting age by then, and if 2 years turns into 4 then that's perfect. He'll probably get his first rifle before he gets his RMD I bought him when he was born.
Adam, when I was growing up and was up at Grandma and Grandpa's all I had to do was walk across the dirt road, or go the other direction and climb over an old woven wire fence.
We could've gotten away with doing the same, but my dad was adamant about being at least 1 mile away from the nearest house.
When I was a kid I was almost shot with a .22 from a neighbors house about aquarter mile away. An accident, but still. Me and my dad were sitting in the barn drinking some tea and a coffee can full of miscellaneous nuts and bolts that I was sitting right next to made a "pop" sound, then we heard the crack in the distance. They were shooting rabbits. From that distance it probably wouldn't have hurt me unless it hit me in the eye or something.
My first gun was a 20 gauge single shot FIE that Dad won on a punch board and gave to me for my 10th birthday. I've had a lot of guns come and go since then, but that old 20 gauge is still in the closet, and will be until I kick off. Then it'll go to my grandson.
I tossed it around for a while now and I'm pretty sure that 7.62x39 is my "go to" rifle round.
I admit I really wanted to be a .308 semi auto guy but I think in my hands a something like a decked out SCAR17 will in the end just be a $4K deer rifle slash range toy. And that's pretty much the role I have decided my M1A will play in my collection. I plan to scope it with a 3-9x40 and shoot it primarily with hunting in mind. At some point I think I will put a walnut stock and I'm thinking a SWFA fixed power scope will do nicely on it. Other than that I will probably never invest in multiple thousands of rounds of ammo. I may not even take my other 20 round makes out of the wrappers.
Now the Arsenal AKs I have are a different story. I will probably shoot the snot of those rifles. I can see investing a little money into these rifles ans setting them up for most things I could want a rifle for. I'm thinking a Hi-Lux CMR on a MI mount is going on my 101 in the near future. And I'm thinking I may put some kind of tactically rail system on my 107 and eventually mount a decent red dot sight on it. I also have my CZ527 in 7.62x39 and I'm about to go pick up the scope I have been wanting for this rifle from the PO right now. So I'm well on my way to being a x39 guy. I was eyeballing a Vepr with a 23" barrel the other day and the cheap VZ2008 rifles look like good trunk/truck rifles. Plus I can actually afford the cost of a couple thousand rounds of 7.62x39 ammo. That along with picking up a box here or there when I see it will keep me shooting well after the prices get crazy or the shelves go bare from another panic buying spree.
I hope to get a CZ550 in .308 at some point but I may just be done with .308 and go for the UHR instead.
I prefer .40S&W right now (because it's all I own.) During 2013 it was still easy to find ammo while everyone was struggling to find 9mm or .45ACP.
I've gone back and forth on 9mm vs. 40S&W. I hate that 9mm is one of the first to leave the shelves during these stupid panics but pretty much any and all calibers are subject to run dry these days. At least with 9mm I can afford a couple extra boxes that I may not have in the budget with 40 or 45.
I think 9mm and .357 will be my "go to" pistol calibers over the next few years. 9mm for everything and .357 for everything else. I have others but I can't see any reasons to make a significant investment in them. I doubt I will miss them other than the trips to the range if the shelves empty out again. I think a compac and full size 9mm and a nice hefty S&W 627 will cover everything I could want to do.
Around here the only pistol caliber ammunition left on the shelves was 10mm auto. It made me want to buy a Glock 20 since I'm a fan of the cartridge anyway.
Spent yesterday at the Aussie SHOT Show here in Sydney, some interesting gear but I managed to get out spending VERY little. Some .375 300gn Hydrostatic Stabilised projectiles, some gunstock wax and some key lights. I COULD have spent much more...LOL I did find ADI out here is loading 168gn Sierra BTHPs in .308 and Winchester is marketing them, so I will have to try those, they are also doing a few different .300BO loadings, I don't have a .300BO but this may push me over the edge...
Spent the afternoon mounting a Leupold MKIV on my SSG...
That is in fact the ADI (Australian Defence Industries) ammunition I mentioned in the post above mate. Traditionally ADI has made BRILLIANT ammunition so I am pretty excited to try some of this out ...
I really wanted a S&W 610 a few years back. Well, I still want one but it just made more sense when I was shooting 40S&W. I still can't help but look at the EAA 10mm pistols but I think .357 is more practical for me. A nice stainless with 4" barrel that can do nightstand duty and also go hunting with during the season.
I would also like to get a nice lever action or at least a handi rifle in .357 at some point. I'm actually leaning towards the handi rile these days since they are simple and cheap and can be used during primitive weapon season here. A lot of guys here are reaming them out to .357 maximum for a little extra kick. I can't say I would get into maximum that much but it would be nice to have it as an option. And another nod for the handi rifle is to have it on hand for inexperienced shooters and the few people that I try to convince to go hunting with me. I have a 45/70 handi I got for primitive weapon season but I have determined that its a little too much for new shooters. With the handy we can load up .38 specials nd have fun. Later we can hit the woods with .357 mags and put some meat on the menu.
.375H&H leaves 45/70 in the dust. The 45/70 IS a great bush rifle and there is not much on the planet you cannot take with one if you bear in mind it's limitations. The H&H round was devised as the all round African round, you can take planes game "well out there" and Buff etc in where it counts. There are round that fill both needs individually BETTER than the H&H but few that are so versitile.
If the firearm in question is a strong modern action it can be loaded up to very impressive levels A Ruger #1 can be hot loaded to ALMOST approach 458 winning I have a 450 marlin which is essentially a modern 45/70 and there isn't anything on North America that I wouldn't hunt with it
Now the 375 H&H is in a completely different class than the 45/70 both in terms of versatility and reach
The only animal that I have personally seen shot with a 375 was a grizzly that my brother harvested a couple of years ago
The 375 hit with AUTHORITY
Originally Posted by greaser
How is it compared to a 45/70 power wise I have a single shot available in my area and I have been thinking about it.
Yes in parts of Africa .375H&H is the minimum for dangerous game, some argue that it is light on for Cape Buffalo but I am willing to bet it will serve me just fine (as it has many many others). I have taken more than my share of Asiatic Buffalo with mine (a looooong time ago now) and I was knocking the snot out of them with 300gn Sierras. They are arguably as hard as a Cape Buff just not as romanticised Newer projectiles such as the Woodleigh Hydros lift them up further in performance.
I can also use my H&H day in and out without ill effect, many 45/70s will pummel you worse !!! That said, I would love a marlin "Guide Gun" in 45/70...!!!!!
K Frame S&W revolvers are something special. My recommendation to non "gun" people for a carry piece is always a K Frame S&W. My personal favourite is the 10/64 or 13/65 in three inch. The round butt preferably but mine was a square. I had one of my own and one of the Govt's for a good number of years and never once felt as though I were at a disadvantage. I shot either exceptionally well and (as I demonstrated more than a couple of times) could worry a hostile greatly at 50yds with that little 'Smith.
I can also use my H&H day in and out without ill effect, many 45/70s will pummel you worse !!! That said, I would love a marlin "Guide Gun" in 45/70...!!!!!
I can attest to this for sure my light little lever really knocks the heck out of your shoulder. I loaded up some mildly hot loads for it, just 20 and I still have 5 of them they are limited to new friends(before someone warns them lol) and are a here try one of these loads. lol
I've got a gen3 g22. My only complaint is the grip sides are to smooth for my liking. I don't get the sure grip I want. Exspecially when your shooting out in the summer heat.
My 1 gripe is also with the grip, but it's the hump I don't like. There's a guy about an hour from here that does frame mods, but he's so backed up that he's not taking orders. So close, yet so far away!
I'd love a professional grip reduction and stipple job. To need the plastic of the gen4 frames feels harder and thinner. But it may just be the texture job throwing me off. I held a h&k usp but I don't have large hands and it feels like I'm griping a brick. The 1911 grip feels good. The sig p220 felt odd because of the grip angle. The FNX45 felt good. I haven't felt an m&p45 grip yet
Sweet set up, what kind of yardage is it good for? I am looking at a 45acp carbine and was wondering how much if any extra punch the longer barrel provides.
I have not played with this one enough to really say mate, it would certainly be ammunition dependent. I think 185s would be best as the 230s drop like rocks.... LOL I use this to produce brass to reform into 38/45JWH for my 1911...
The only thing in .45 acp that I have owned is a FNP45. Never having had a .45 acp pistol I got it because it was a large capacity .45 that felt pretty good in hand. I haven't shot it in a few years though. It just isn't my caliber of choice. I still really want a CZ97B though. That CZ97 is a good looking firearm and it seems like it would make for a good option for the night stand.
As for revolvers I think a S&W 627 will be what I'm going with.
Lots, seems each case is only good for 3-5 reloads now. It is a pretty stressful transformation.
Yeah it seems like they would stress that neck out pretty quick. I may look into it more though would be a nice carry round in a 1911 with just a barrel change needed.
That CZ97 is a good looking firearm and it seems like it would make for a good option for the night stand.
This is my first CZ family pistol and with as nice as this one is it wont be my last. SAR B6P
I've been wanting a EAA Witness for a while now. The ones I've seen locally all had a $100 or so added to the tag.
Those Sarslimaz pistols got down to some pretty low prices for a while if I recall. Just googled it... Basically a Witness for $250 and accepts CZ newer style mags is what I just read. I also didn't know there was a steel version at some point. I can't say I have seen many if any bad reviews on any if the CZ pistols or the clones.
Already blew my budget with a scope and some knick knacks so I'm just talking. I think...
You know, I do still need to replace my M&P40 with a full sized 9mm like I had intended. I was also leaning towards a Hi-Power clone for a budget pistol purchase at some point. Mostly just something not too expensive to have here or there when needed. There's a HiPower clone called the Arcus DA98 that gets some decent marks and has a metal frame that I was leaning towards. I liked the idea of the added heft but realistically I'm not tough enough on any of my gear to think it matters that much. And seeing as how a CZ75 SP-01 is still very high in my list for a main 9mm full sized carry pistol the SAR actually seems a more attractive fit. Shared mags and similar build and all...
Definitely something to think about for the b-day....
I am more than impressed with it for the 240 I paid you cant even come close to it. Buds gun shop still has some decent prices on them, I got it because I wanted a in between carry piece and after some range time I think it will more than suffice.
Just ordered a Haley Strategic Partners DC3 chest rig and the trimmings. Got a discount so I decided to try it. Also got my g-code incog in the mail at my folks. Will pick it up later this week. Also got a double pistol mag holder from them.
Yeah I liked a low profile part and it can be worn under backpack straps easily. Very easy to mount on a player carrier. I'm saving for the SKD PIG. Seems to be a very nice carrier add ar500 plates and ready to rock. Buying slowly as funds allow.
Handled a Springfield Armory operator TRP... It was sweet! Sooo what 45acp guns do you guys run?
Over the past 30 years I've had over three dozen 1911 variations, a dozen Sig P220 variations, six Glock 21/30/36, seven USP45, three HK45 CT, S&W 1917 US, Colt 1917 US, EAA Witness, Ruger P90, S&W CS45, and at least 15-20 more I can't think of at the moment.
I sold my Les Baer Custom Carry and Les Baer SRP earlier this year. I seriously regret this, and will have another Baer.
Currently, I have:
HK45 Compact Tactical HK USP45 Springfield Armory TRP
That's just the 45 ACPs. This excludes all of the 22LR, 22Mag, 25 Acp, 32 Acp, 380 Acp, 38 Long Colt, 38 Special, 9x19mm, 40 S&W, 7.62x25mm, 357 Sig , 357 Mag, 10mm, 45 GAP, 45 (Long) Colt, 44 Magnum handguns I've had.
The 45 Colts included a Ruger Vaquero, Ruger Convertible Blackhawk (2 cylinders), and a Winchester 94.
45 Colt in its factory load offerings is WEAK. However, a hand loader can really bring out its potential (as long as you're shooting them through an overbuilt gun like the Blackhawk).
I'd like to pick up a Marlin 1985 SBL in 45-70. I don't have a real need for it, but it would fuel my dream of an Alaskan adventure (what I dream of doing as a retirement present in about 99 years).
Do some research on the marlins Arch there are bad years for them I would hate to see you get a lemon.
I would be hand loading the 45lc you will find the 45/70 is the same way factory loads are made for trap door guns and are really weak. Is the black hawk double action? I really want my revolver to be double action.
Man, you scared me. I have been saving up for a SAA for a long time. Although they probably will discontinue them before I have enough money for one. LOL.
Yeah the snakes are going for crazy money now. I wish I would have bought the king cobra I was offered years ago. I would like to see them bring out a new run of them, I don't think it will ever happen but it would be nice.
So if somebody gave you $1650 for a 1911 what would you get. I'm looking at Dan Wesson, springfield Armory TRP operator, or para ordanace black ops, or colt rail gun and do some work. Or sig and add work. By work I mean get rid of all MIM parts.
So if somebody gave you $1650 for a 1911 what would you get.
...SIG 220 or a Glock 21 and if you could find it an S&W 4516, the FNs are also nice but I don't have enough range time with one.. Yes...I do know that none are a 1911 BTW and yes I do happen to have a worked over Colt 1911 and love it "but" and it is the "but" that is the problem. Just as long as it is not your only working tool in that field the 1911 is OK.
I would take a Browning HP over a 1911 each and everyday of the week...
I would take a Browning HP over a 1911 each and everyday of the week...
This time I disagree with you Andy but it may just be my affinity for the 1911 that is tainting my opinion of the Hi-power (they are great guns just not better than the 1911 for me).
I would get any of the name brand ones in the 5 to 9 hundred dollar range change anything you didn't like then buy a XD45 to go with it. LOL at least that's what I did.
SIG Springfield Ruger Ect.... even the Taurus if you factor in a duracoat or ceracoat job is a great choice. Get some Wilson combat mags and you are good to go.
This time I disagree with you Andy but it may just be my affinity for the 1911 that is tainting my opinion of the Hi-power (they are great guns just not better than the 1911 for me).combat mags and you are good to go.
.... indeed mate, this is a very very personal thing... and there really is no "right and wrong" only what is right for me vs you. Having owned both at different times (funnily enough I don't have a BHP at the moment)there is just nothing the 1911 does better for me... especially put holes in targets just where I want them. But as noted, I also have a 1911 and have done since the 80s..... It is not a case of dislike, not by any streatch of the imagination....
Yep I will always have glocks. As for the sig I just haven't shot da/Sa enough to get a feeling for it. And sigs girl angle is nothing like the glocks I grew up on. But heck I will probably have all eventually lol
So if somebody gave you $1650 for a 1911 what would you get. I'm looking at Dan Wesson, springfield Armory TRP operator, or para ordanace black ops, or colt rail gun and do some work. Or sig and add work. By work I mean get rid of all MIM parts.
None of the above.
For $1650 you're in striking distance of a Les Baer Custom Carry. Its all the 1911 you'll ever need.
Regarding the 1911's suitability as a "field gun".... I agree and disagree with Andy.
I wouldn't take a "hobby grade" MIM filled 1911 into harm's way unless "harm's way" is defined as a trip to WalMart with a low round count MIM gun. Past that, and I'll take a Glock or HK any day.
Once you break the ceiling, and start looking at Les Baer, Ed Brown, Wilson, Springfield Pro, etc. then yes I would wholeheartedly take that 1911 anywhere.
I've owned dozens of 1911's, and have worn out Mimbers (yes, this is a slam on Kimber's extensive use of MIM parts), broken a Colt, blew up a MilSpec Springfield, and had a several Para Ords that wouldn't go bang reliably. I've had a Sig 1911 that went back to the factory so many times I swore I'd never own another one of their current products. The sights FELL OFF the Taurus I had, and the Llama...well...it was a Llama.
I've never had a problem with original Series 70 Colts, US Property Marked 1911s (some of which were EXTREMELY high round count rebuilds) or Les Baers.
I can have any 1911 I want, and I choose Les Baer. They aren't as refined as an Ed Brown, and they aren't "made to order" like a Wilson but I believe them to be more reliable / duty qualified and they're more accurate in my experience. They also can be had for $500-1500 less.
I have a Springfield TRP as a "beater". The FL guide rod is in the trash can, and a EB GI plunger has been installed. I plan on one of two courses of action (in due time):
A) Sell it and buy another Les Bear.
B) Send it to Springfield's Custom Shop for replacement of all MIM parts.
Regardless if I keep the TRP in its factory guise, rebuilt by the CS, or sell it - I will have another Les Baer.
Out of the hundreds of handguns I've shot the LB was the only one that really put a smile on my face. It just "fit" and was more accurate than it needs to be.
You'll be well served by a LB. People will say Ed Brown is finished better, and Wilson has more options and better Customer Service. However, the few people I've heard of having problems with their LB spoke directly to Les, and I'll spend the $800 difference between a LB Custom Carry and EB Special Forces on ammo.
The first time I heard of Les Bear was from a book I read back in the '90's, "The Relic." I look into them every 5 years or so. I love the thought of having one, but it would only be a range gun for me. My carry gun will not have a manual safety, and my fighting gun will be high capacity. That doesn't leave any room for the Baer, so I doubt I'll ever own one. A CZ97 will probably be the closest I ever come.
I'm hoping gun dog gets the Les Baer, only because I know he'll love it.
Les bears are sick 1911s but mine is a range queen that I am slowly building up, yes it will cost the same in the long run but into the short run I was able to buy it and a real carry gun plus have money for ammo. Not disagreeing with you Arch I am just thinking that GD has a small collection why not build it up a bit. My Taurus pt1911 has been flawless (I did change the sights) and Wilson combat non mim parts are easy to be had. This is where I am coming from.
I have no interest in having another railed 1911. The balance is dreadful. Honestly, I know the conventional wisdom is to put a light on your fighting handgun (and I espoused this for years) but in practice it isn't ideal.
When just "looking around" because you heard a noise - pointing your gun at what could be your neighbor doesn't make them happy (ask how I know this).
Lights make holster selection, and carry comfort difficult.
I keep a light on my nightstand gun, but not my carry gun. I carry a high quality light with me (clipped in my weak hand back pocket). This allows the light to be used the 99.9999999999999999999999999999999% of the time I just need a flashlight, but it can be used in conjunction with the weapon if needed.
I do think a duty sidearm needs a light. Different situation. You're carrying an exposed sidearm in a more durable holster and have a separate light on your belt.
Good info between the brand fighting here. Lolhttp://forums.1911forum.com/showthread.php?t=282723
That link made me laugh, because it references the early non-MIM Sig 1911s. I had one of those - it went back to Sig no less than seven times.
I forgot to add S&W to the list of 1911s I've had. I've owned three of their guns.
Right or wrong I separate gun owners into five categories:
LEVEL ONE = people who own a gun. It doesn't matter why they have it - it doesn't how they acquired it. They have a gun but that's the extent of it.
LEVEL TWO = commoners. These are the people that bought a gun because they thought they needed one (for hunting, self defense, whatever). They use whatever they bought and are satisfied.
LEVEL THREE = hobbyist. This is lowest level of "gun personhood". These are the people are truly interested in guns, talk about them, own and use them. They are also satisfied with "good enough". This means their Rock River AR15 is "good enough" and the extra attention, quality control, and manufacturing processes and materials of a Colt AR15 are just hype - just a marketing tool to rob dumb people of extra money.
LEVEL FOUR = semi-pros. This is where people who actually push their gear end up. These aren't the "it looks like the real thing so it has to be good enough" crowd. They've seen LEVEL THREE people's gear fail - repeatedly.
LEVEL FIVE = pros. This is the elite group of users, builders, etc that are at the apex of the gun culture.
This level quickly separates the wheat from the chaff. I wore out a top of the line Kimber in less than four months. They sent me a new one. This was a $1400 gun (over a decade ago $1400 bought a lot more gun).
I use what I know to work, that does not mean the most expensive, not the cheapest either. If I have not seen a firearm used over and over by better users than I (and I mean see not read about as there is too much BS in the firearms media)I am not interested.
I have a (Generation ONE I guess) Glock 17. It belonged to a deceased police officer I worked with WAY back in 74-76. I knocked off the rear plastic sight and I NEED to replace it. I am thinking about going with express sights, Shallow V rear and Round dot front. That is my Favorite type sight. I have trouble lining up conventional sights. The elevation is fine, but the windage throws me off all the time.
I use what I know to work, that does not mean the most expensive, not the cheapest either. If I have not seen a firearm used over and over by better users than I (and I mean see not read about as there is too much BS in the firearms media)I am not interested.
I could not agree more about gun media. I use to spend hours standing in a store reading every gun magazine that was published (every month - for YEARS). About four or five years ago I stopped doing this, because the quality of information had dropped to literally being an extended advertisement and the weapon analysis dropped to the level of "it has plastic grips". Really? Plastic grips - WOW - I need one of those.
This past weekend I picked up a gun magazine at WalMart to thumb through. This is the first time I've looked at one in a VERY long time. I was astounded to see that every gun in the magazine was "fit for zombie duty" after a grueling TWO HUNDRED ROUND "test".
200 rounds? I often shoot 200rds warming up.
How about shooting 2000rds in hot, wet, muddy conditions? That's a test.
Magazines are not paid for by subscribers. They are paid for by advertisers.
Gun companies are offering too many choices. How many variations of Sig are made today? When I bought my first Sig back in the early 1990's you had three choices: Sig P220, Sig P220 European in 38 Super, Sig P226. These were quality guns made in Europe. I'm not picking on Sig, but they're a "flavor of the week" company now with abysmal quality control and materials. They are nothing like Sig SAN was. I'd rather have less options and more quality.
Glock is another good example. They held true to their basic design for many many years. It wasn't until they introduced the Gen 4 that problems showed up. They started using more MIM parts (google Glock Extractor Problem) and changed the recoil system. The system had worked fine in the Sub-Compacts (which had extensive testing) so why wouldn't they work in full size guns (withOUT extensive testing...).
I have a (Generation ONE I guess) Glock 17. It belonged to a deceased police officer I worked with WAY back in 74-76. I knocked off the rear plastic sight and I NEED to replace it. I am thinking about going with express sights, Shallow V rear and Round dot front. That is my Favorite type sight. I have trouble lining up conventional sights. The elevation is fine, but the windage throws me off all the time.
Usually people have trouble with "nose up" elevation in Glocks due to their grip angle.
Replace the front and rear with a metal set of your choice. The rear can be drifted into place with a BRASS punch (put a little lithium grease in the channel to ease movement) and the front will screw on with a TINY screw inside the slide. You'll need to buy a special driver if you don't have one that'll fit. The head of the fastener is FLAT and SMALL. Add the best loctite you can afford!
Right or wrong I separate gun owners into five categories:
LEVEL ONE = people who own a gun. It doesn't matter why they have it - it doesn't how they acquired it. They have a gun but that's the extent of it.
LEVEL TWO = commoners. These are the people that bought a gun because they thought they needed one (for hunting, self defense, whatever). They use whatever they bought and are satisfied.
LEVEL THREE = hobbyist. This is lowest level of "gun personhood". These are the people are truly interested in guns, talk about them, own and use them. They are also satisfied with "good enough". This means their Rock River AR15 is "good enough" and the extra attention, quality control, and manufacturing processes and materials of a Colt AR15 are just hype - just a marketing tool to rob dumb people of extra money.
LEVEL FOUR = semi-pros. This is where people who actually push their gear end up. These aren't the "it looks like the real thing so it has to be good enough" crowd. They've seen LEVEL THREE people's gear fail - repeatedly.
LEVEL FIVE = pros. This is the elite group of users, builders, etc that are at the apex of the gun culture.
I place myself at LEVEL FOUR.
Not to sound offened but man you didn't make us "level three" folks sound all that good. I know I'm not an "operator" to any degree but keep in mind most folks lifestyles simply don't support a level four or five mindset. Not just money and time but location and surroundings.
In most cases with us consumers the "quality" of most products is perceived and then realized. That's why they spend so much on the fancy packaging we toss in the landfills. It would be nice to know what a farmer knows when you shop for vegetables just like it would nice to be a mechanic when you buy a car. But other than to become a farmer and a mechanic I have to "Google" some stuff and take my chances with the lemons.
I may only put a few hundred rounds through a firearm but do I need to break it to trust it? If I shoot a firearm for 10K rounds and it breaks is it any better than if I only shot it for 250 rounds? 100 rounds? I admit I'm not that level of an operator or a competition shooter or whatever gets me there so my settings don't support a significant investment in high round counts. So a "good enough" evaluation makes a bit more sense for me. True my firearm my not get me through a shootout with a drug cartel and it may not work covered in mud after I drag it behind my car. I'll probably just stay out of the drug game and if I can I'll avoid the mud and just not drag any guns behind my car.
And... I know some people don't care for the zombie stuff and I get that. But tell them you don't care for folks "prepping" to shoot hoardes of their evil "lib" neighbors down in the streets like packs of rabid dogs due to some "impending" collapse of the governement and now we can argue why having a black rifle makes more sense than having a neon green one. Oakie Doakie... I just enjoy having these things myself but if your "survival" hinges on them. Cool...
I'm a "whatever tickles your woolies" kind of guy and I do like hearing about people burning through $$$$ in ammo in one afternoon. I can't justify doing it for myself though. If I did it would simply be for fun and I can't say it would've been for any sort of tactical advantage other than saying a gun can do it. I know that knowledge and experience makes a huge difference but there is also overkill. With my little collection as a "level three" guy I guess I'm stuck "good enough" which to almost everybody else is actally overkill. But as I tell them "Wait until the zombies start eating folks brains".
Again I hope I didn't sound offended. I just wanted to discuss my perspective a bit.
I see exactly where you are coming from. I buy the best I can and have knowledge of but being a college student normally makes me a level three even if I want to be a 5
Surprisingly a rental at a local range. I was looking at the costa edition and a Dan wesson specalist and the guy pointed out that model in the rental display.... It was amazing.
Lazi, I wasn't passing judgement on people who KNOWINGLY buy L3 guns and gear. I was passing judgement on those who argue it's "just as good as" L4 and L5 guns and gear.
If you're a. L1 guy and that works for you - awesome - more money for something else you're more interested in.
I drive a BASE model vehicle. If they made a lower level model I'd buy it. I wear clothes from WalMart and the clearance rack at other Dept Stores. We don't have cable TV, go on vacations, go out to eat or see movies. We chose to spend on other stuff. To me, I'd rather have one top quality rifle than three lower quality rifles and three weekends of "going out". That's my life view.
YMMV (your mileage may vary) fits here.
There is a reason there have been countless Marlin 60 rifles sold. Most people don't want to spend $1000 on a Volquartsen (myself included). However, if I saw a need for a super accurate semi auto 22LR I might consider one. This isn't because I'm wealthy or flashy or a brand snob. I'm far from all of these things. It would be a result of me prioritizing my life long hobby above something else.
Gary, don't worry, the new sights front AND rear will both be metal. I reckon I will just have my local GS to order and install them for me. He'll only charge me 10 bucks to put them on. THEN I think I will go ahead and get my CCW at some time. I can get it (good for 5 years) for $78.00 cause I work for the Sheriff's office. That includes the Mandatory class and the CCW fee.
I held a ed brown also. My favorite was the NH costa edition followed buy the DW specialist.... Suddenly I became a 1911 guy lol
Did you shoot the Dan Wesson? Been drooling over a valor and watching YouTube videos of them and Ed Brown's too...oh mama they look sweet. I don't want feeds .45 though! Lol! With my love of all things cz, I was reading about the...85b (?) their 45 last night too...I like!
Didn't have a DW to rent but the ones in the case sure felt better than sig springfield and colt. And felt on par with the ED brown. Only better ones to my judgment was the Night hawks.
I will probably end up with a DW specialist. And eventually a NH
Lazi, I wasn't passing judgement on people who KNOWINGLY buy L3 guns and gear. I was passing judgement on those who argue it's "just as good as" L4 and L5 guns and gear.
Cool... I didn't want to seem offended or trying to argue. I got want you meant though. I just wanted to add my perspective as a low L3. I could buy all the L4-L5 type gear I want but in my hands it's still L3 at best.
And I still haven't figured out my next purchase. I was set on either a VZ2008 or the SAR B6P.
The price on the B6P keeps going up and down $20 so I may just go with the Witness P. The VZ is just going for such a good price I figure I should get one while they last.
I look at shooters more as Minute of Angle (MOA) capability. For instance, a +1 MOA shooter would be wasting their money on an expensive weapon. This type of shooter doesn’t shoot any better with an inexpensive firearm than with can a top of the line piece. They buy the best for bragging rights.
A 1 MOA guy, or average shooter, would gain a bit more accuracy and/or range with a better bullet launcher, but usually lack the time, drive, and cash to practice, practice, practice. Even with exceptional ability, without the practice they will always remain 1 MOA shooters.
When you get to ½ MOA, you can tell the difference between a middle of the pack weapon and a top of the line firearm. I would guess this is would be the limit that the vast majority of experienced shooter could hope to reach. And that they would be happy to be able to reach and maintain that level of proficiency. Uncle Sam afforded me the time and opportunity (and lots and lots of bullets) to reach this level.
I’ve only seen a few ¼ MOA guys and they are impressive. Not physically, they were mostly on the other side of the hill and a bit on the scrawny side, but they had mastered all the elements of the shooting world.
I met up with a ¼ MOA shooter on a rifle range once. He was an old Marine (has there ever been an ex-Marine?) and was paired up with him to shoot the match. He also happened to be the groundskeeper of the range. While he never said anything negative about my shooting, I’m sure he was shaking his head in the pits. When this guy started shooting the spindles out of the spotter disks while shooting offhand at 200 meters (100points/9X’s), I got an indication of his skill. This guy shot an old beat up M-1 Garand and had more X’s that the top two winners combined. He ended up shooting 449 out of 500 with five saved rounds. At 400 meters, shooting standing to sitting, he dropped his five rounds in the dirt and didn’t want to dirty his rifle. Tremendous shooter, and when I started talking to him after the match, everyone listened.
So would I want a top of the line firearm that could let me compete with that old Marine? Sure, but like most firearms, the top end of the scale weapons tend to outshoot their handlers. And I’d rather have a reliable rifle that I can beat the crap out of and still get 1 MOA out of than a delicate ¼ MOA rifle that requires babying.
Mastiff, This is good another example of area of interest. Precision shooters and IDPA shooters value ... precision ... and speed more than anything else.
I gave up interest in precision shooting several years ago, because it wasn't "turning my crank". I have a friend that just picked up a WOA upper yesterday, because he likes all of the work that goes into precision shooting. I was talking to another friend, yesterday, that is going to buy a new skeet barrel this weekend. He's into skeet, trap, and sporting clays.
Lazy, I understood what you were saying, and didn't think I had (overly) offended. My perspectives are based upon 30 years of INTENSE ownership and shooting, and my needs are different than everyone else's. Most people don't have the number of rounds down range or number of formerly owned guns that I do. For example, when you've owned DOZENS of AR15s you form strong opinions. Again, this isn't meant to cast judgement or being disparaging toward anyone's opinion / choice / whatever. Its an opportunity to learn from someone who's already spent copious amounts of time and money finding out what you will likely figure out if you're as committed as me....without having to spend the time and money.
The shooting sports are nice because you have so many facets to invest your time and dollars into.
Mastiff, This is good another example of area of interest. Precision shooters and IDPA shooters value ... precision ... and speed more than anything else.
I for one always value the opinion of someone who's been there and done that. Why should I waste limited resources like money and time just to discover what hundreds of people have already discovered.
And while everyone has opinions, I value the opinion of the guy that's "owned DOZENS of AR15s" over the guy that wants you to get brand XXX because that's the ONE he's familiar with.
OK, I said earlier I think I am gonna get my CCW. I Like Sigs (I've had 4 and still have 2, a P220 and a P225). I would like a .45acp to carry. I've found three Sigs that MIGHT make the list as a compact carry gun.
1. Sig P220R 2. Sig P227 3. Sig P250
Of the Three, which would Y'all recommend? OR what other gun, make/model for compact CCW?
Walked into a shop today that was clearing out used guns from another store in another state. Had bunch a for $99. Mostly a bunch of single shots and shotguns.
I went in hoping to get a $100 H&R rifle to hopefully get my cousins shooting and hunting. Ended up getting a Marlin 336 with a Burris 3-9x32 scope for $240. Dated the gun and it's pretty clean for a 1977 rifle. I was hoping it was a 1975 but you really couldn't tell it was 30+ from the looks of it. I just saw the JM and no safety and figured I'd try it. It has a few Knicks and dings but nothing major on the wood and the metal surprisingly clean. Action is sold but I don't think this rifle saw a whole lot of rounds through it at all. Most likely bumped around a closet a good bit. Whoever sold it had it put away clean.
There was some good deals on shotgun that's for sure. I saw a like new youth model 870 go out the door for $100. Wish I had seen that one but I may go back and look again for a turkey shotgun.
I held a ed brown also. My favorite was the NH costa edition followed buy the DW specialist.... Suddenly I became a 1911 guy lol
Did you shoot the Dan Wesson? Been drooling over a valor and watching YouTube videos of them and Ed Brown's too...oh mama they look sweet. I don't want feeds .45 though! Lol! With my love of all things cz, I was reading about the...85b (?) their 45 last night too...I like!
correction- the CZ 95...dang the lack of edit button!
I held a ed brown also. My favorite was the NH costa edition followed buy the DW specialist.... Suddenly I became a 1911 guy lol
Did you shoot the Dan Wesson? Been drooling over a valor and watching YouTube videos of them and Ed Brown's too...oh mama they look sweet. I don't want feeds .45 though! Lol! With my love of all things cz, I was reading about the...85b (?) their 45 last night too...I like!
correction- the CZ 95...dang the lack of edit button!
CZ97B?
That's the current model .45 acp. Man I like the looks of that one. I think I'm just a full dust cover guy.
I found and purchased two 22rd 40 cal glock mags today... Not for carry but since my get home gun is currently my glock it seemed like a good idea
MIKE, MAKE SURE THEY WORK!!!!! I once bought a SIG P220 15 round magazine for my P220 45 and It WAS NOT RELIABLE!
They are glock factory mags and I'm going to test then out this weekend.
I been meaning to get soon of those for my Sub2000. The 32 round Korean actually worked just fine in the S2K as well. I just would like shorter option.
Korean 32 rounders for .40 cal. Since Glock didn't make any for a while it was the only option for extended mags. Similar build but not obviously not the same quality. They actually fit tighter in my S2K and won't fall where the factory 15 drops free.
If that's the ones...
Greaser, I think you can stick a regular glock base on there but you would need the retainer plate (don't know what it's called) to match. I think I swapped mine one and they worked. Was a good while back so I could be wrong. Also on mines it's just a +2 base so maybe check around for the Korean +2 extentions. Last suggestion would be to alter a +2 so that it's secure enough to not need the "retainer" and file the Korean ones down. I'm just tossing out ideas...
I had been thinking if getting a .357 H&R Handi Rifle some day. I just recalled that the H&R and NEF shotguns are built on the same receivers (SB1) as the pistol caliber rifles. I went back to the shop and got a case hardened NEF 3" 12 gauge for $80 otd. I'll probably send it in at some point for a .357 barrel. I was told it would run about $140. It seems a lot of guys are teeming them out to .357 maximum and getting good results. The shotgun barrel might come in handy if I ever get around to doing some turkey hunting.
We sold a gun over the weekend, and bought a S&W Shield 9mm for my wife to carry (as an upgrade from her Ruger LCP 380Acp). We took it to the range, and put about 200rds through it. It was 100% reliable, and VERY accurate for me. It was VERY accurate for her, but she had a few stove pipes (due to limp wristing). This stopped after the round count increased and I locked her into a isosceles.
I've been thinking about upgrading my wife's carry pistol. It's nice to know the Shield performed well, that one is on the short list. I really wanted the Remington R51 to be a contender, but it has been receiving very poor reviews.
I had been thinking if getting a .357 H&R Handi Rifle some day. I just recalled that the H&R and NEF shotguns are built on the same receivers (SB1) as the pistol caliber rifles. I went back to the shop and got a case hardened NEF 3" 12 gauge for $80 otd. I'll probably send it in at some point for a .357 barrel. I was told it would run about $140. It seems a lot of guys are teeming them out to .357 maximum and getting good results. The shotgun barrel might come in handy if I ever get around to doing some turkey hunting.
Let me know how this goes sounds like a great way to have a backpackable multi caliber gun.
I've been thinking about upgrading my wife's carry pistol. It's nice to know the Shield performed well, that one is on the short list. I really wanted the Remington R51 to be a contender, but it has been receiving very poor reviews.
I like the shield but am thinking maybe a XDS in .45 instead. I never liked the look of the R51 (I know I know but I have to look at it while cleaning and using it at the range. lol) and it seemed way to complex a system for a carry gun.
So here is a question for you guys... Two glocks sitting on a table in your favorite caliber. One is a gen3 and one is a gen4.... Which would you pick and why!
So I was talking with a gun smith and he said the finish on the gen3 is better. That Hardened steel is thicker along with the paint. Anyone heard of that?
Gen 3 without doubt. I have an overview knowledge of around 17,000+ Gen3s in use and it is really hard to fault them. Also very detailed knowledge of around 100 that are on a training cycle. They have had the bejesus shot out of them. Each revolver to SLP course is a minimum of 900 rounds per shooter, they get shot lots !!! Yes in the early days we kabooomed 20 !!! But that was all about cast projectiles and cleaning, a change to plated/jacketed saw that go away overnight. My personal 17 is also a Gen3 and and after toying with a Gen4 recently I will be buying ANOTEHR Gen3. They fit my hand well (again that is always personal) so no need to change.
Glad I'm not the only one not on the gen4 band wagon. When I felt the gen4 I just didn't like the new recoil assembly and the way it effected the slide movement. Maybe I can find a rough textured frame glock to fill my desire for a frame with more grip.
I have tried to want a glock but I just don't like how they feel. I like the M&P a whole lot as is but of course it doesn't have the track record or following as the Glock brand. I only sold my M&P40 because I didn't want to invest in that caliber any more. A M&P9 might be an option but I think I'd prefer to have DA/SA firearms. I think I'm going with the CZ75 line of firearms and clones with my next few purchases.
I've been thinking about upgrading my wife's carry pistol. It's nice to know the Shield performed well, that one is on the short list. I really wanted the Remington R51 to be a contender, but it has been receiving very poor reviews.
The R51 is a nonstarter IMHO.
The Sheild was an impressive little gun. Again, I had zero malfs and she had two or three stove pipes. My wife is 5'4" x 115 pounds with very little upper body strength. The gun was stiff when new, and needed a strong wrist to keep the poly frame flex from short-stroking ejection. After I identified why it was SP'g we modified her stance and it cleared up. I think it'll be 100% for her (even if limp wristed) when it is fully broken in.
I forgot to add originally, it is nearly impossible to seat a fully loaded 7rd mag. You have to conduct the ill-advised "pop the base plate" to get it to seat / mag catch to engage.
I've had two full size and one compact M&P (plus the Shield). I bought the M&Ps when they first came out, and had an issue with them going fully into battery. This is a common compliant online.
Glocks do not have this problem even if you accidentally ride the slide a little during loading.
This "problem" with the M&Ps concerned me greatly and they were quickly sold. All told I probably only fired 500-600 rounds through the three.
Glocks aren't "contemporary" with regards to their ergos, but they are the most thoroughly tested and successful poly design. I trust Glock more than any other except perhaps the HK USP and children.
Our SF Types are issued USPs (2 Commando and SAS) I think they originally got them for the CT Teams and they then (with the involvement in Iraq and Arsecrackestan)moved out onto the hips and gear of guys in the green teams as well. The H&K does not fit my hand as well as a Glock, some of that may well be familiarity as well. I have had a 17 (at least) since the mid 80s when they has slick grips and no serial number plate on the frame.
The HK45 series has better ergos, but also the plastic buffer of the USP-C. The USP-F buffer is superior. They should have used it in the HK45.
Just fired 232 rounds of Wolf out of my two Scar-16s. I had my first ever Wolf ammo related failure. Had one fail to go off. It had been stored in my black SUV for five years (thru 0F winters and 105F summers) so it's hard to say if it was a bad primer or storage issue. Nonetheless, out of over 10,000rds of Wolf this has been my first issue.
I'm considering doing an AR build in the near future. It's either going to be a rifle in 6.8 SPC or a pistol in .300 BLK. I just need to decide which takes priority over the other.
I also debated between the two. I went with the pistol in .300 BLK because I did not have an AR pistol, the 6.8 SPC can't use AR 15 bolts or magazines and I can easily reform 5.56 brass into .300 BLK.
Does anyone here know who sells the best lower parts kits?
If I had to do my last 3 builds over again I would have bought the fire groupless kits and put an ALG trigger in them, and at that point any of the name brand kits should serve you well.
My next build is going to be a 5.45x39 and be feed on a steady diet of wolf an tula ammo. You just cant beat the prices.
Does anyone here know who sells the best lower parts kits?
If I had to do my last 3 builds over again I would have bought the fire groupless kits and put an ALG trigger in them, and at that point any of the name brand kits should serve you well.
My next build is going to be a 5.45x39 and be feed on a steady diet of wolf an tula ammo. You just cant beat the prices.
I did much the same in my last three. I used ALG for two of them and a Spike's for the other. I used CMMG, DPMS and a Spike's LPK. All fit well.
IF you've ever bought a firearm of any kind, YOU'RE ON THE LIST. There are other ways as well.
1. If you are or were prior military....Guilty 2. Conservative....Guilty 3. Christian....Guilty 4. Police or prior Police....Guilty 5. Ever had a Security Clearance....Guilty
I think you get the point. I'm on so many lists they all know me by my first name!
Ask me if I care. (Patty calls me a Rabble Rouser). I call it being a CONCERNED CITIZEN!
Dang I just died inside. A sig 716 shipped for $1300... I hate being financially responsible.... Those sure look nice. Anybody used the sig piston ar-15 before?
The film, shot in 1921 and released in 1922, was an unauthorized adaptation of Bram Stoker's Dracula, with names and other details changed because the studio could not obtain the rights to the novel (for instance, "VAMPIRE" BECAME "NOSFERATU" and "Count Dracula" became "Count Orlok"). Stoker's heirs sued over the adaptation, and a court ruling ordered that all copies of the film be destroyed. However, one print of Nosferatu survived, and the film came to be regarded as an influential masterpiece of cinema
Randy, The original film is very creepy. Its actually scary in a way that current zombie / gore / jump out at you garbage cinema is not. It is bothersome on a deep level. NOTE: I don't watch R rated (unless its history or combat related) movies or horror, but saw Nosferatu several times while at university.
Its a fitting name for your S6. That thing is a beast too....
Just received a number of small parts from Numrich's (Gun Parts Co) for my Win 94 conversion.... but only 1/2 the bits I ordered arrived and they say they will come in multiple packages... that is OK except for the $45 they charged me in postage that has cost them all of $11 so far...
I just picked up my Spikes Honey Badger lower (I generally don't go for the tacticool themed gun parts, but I couldn't help myself with this particular one. And the price was right.) and I can tell you right now I like my BCM lower more. The BCM has a nice, smooth anodized finish and the Spikes has a very flat Cerakote (I think) finish. Feels like a chalk board, but maybe even flatter. If I would've had a chance to handle it first I don't think I would've bought it.
I have no doubt that it is a top quality lower, this is just a personal preference thing. I'll keep it, but from here on out it is BCM all the way for me.
I'm still not sure if I'm going to build a 6.8 SPC hunting rifle or a .300 BLK pistol with it. I will probably stick with the Honey Badger theme and go the pistol route. I'll SBR it at some point.
Shipping is getting outrageous. USPS charged me $8.00 to ensure a small flat rate envelop for $465 yesterday. I shipped out one of my BATACs and about fell over when they charged that much for JUST insurance on a 2 Day package.
I've had several BCM and their finishes range from almost glossy black (much more so than a current Colt) to outright FLAT black. My MidLength's lower is glossy while the upper looks flatter than a chalk board.
The only reason I use/support USPS is so that they can stay around so I can keep getting mail in my mail box. They don't make it easy to keep using them, though.
The only reason I use/support USPS is so that they can stay around so I can keep getting mail in my mail box. They don't make it easy to keep using them, though.
Ditto. However, when you say '2-Day' don't take 6 and what's the deal with their insurance rates? They must have a serious theft problem.
I like the more flat almost grippy textured finishes I guess its a personal preference thing.
I'm not a "fit and finish" guy insomuch as it dictates the "quality" to mind. However, I do prefer for my stuff to start life looking as good as possible. As such, I don't care if the finish is matte or glossy as long as its uniform on same-material parts (like the upper and lower of an AR).
And you have to prove the value of the item that was damaged or lost. That can be difficult to do if the item has greatly appreciated in value since it was new. I've heard many stories of the USPS not paying claims because of this.
And you have to prove the value of the item that was damaged or lost. That can be difficult to do if the item has greatly appreciated in value since it was new. I've heard many stories of the USPS not paying claims because of this.
I had them not pay because the sender didnt pack the item well enough. even though with the damage to the box unless it was packed in adimantium it wouldnt have survived anyways. ??????????????
You guys have an opinion of the Springfield Armoury Range Officer? Look like a good starter .45? Not going to do anything for awhile...but thinking about it.
I've had several Springfields and recently traded my TRP. The TRP was a nice gun but no where near the slightly more expensive / massively better built options.
Personally, if I wanted a inexpensive entry level gun I'd consider a Colt 1991. The Colt will retain value when you're ready to trade up because it says Colt on it.
This is where we differ Arch I would rather have something now and build it up over time for enjoyment than be without waiting to save up for a top of the line. But with that being said I have the mechanical ability and (most of the) tools to do the work needed to bring a subpar weapon up to snuff.
What is this "Thick Flange Bushing" they speak of? I have a Colt 1991A1 I had built with night sights, beavertail safety, trigger job W/new trigger, SOME hand fitting Harrts recoil reduction rod. Guess I don't really need to get a smaller carry gun after all!
I have been doing the same research. And I stopped and have spent a few hours talking to a gun smith at a local range. He said that for a starter build pistol the SA RO is his go to for himself and his customers. If you don't do that than he said Dan Wesson. Then if you have the funds for any more.... Well we can dream
I just found a sale for a war sports industries lower complete for $699... It an ambi forged lower with some upgrades it also comes with a carry case fora broken down ar rifle and some other stuff. Not sure if it's a good or bad buy. Comes with plenty of upgrades. But I'm torn between that or buying tools and starting to build from scratch.
This is where we differ Arch I would rather have something now and build it up over time for enjoyment than be without waiting to save up for a top of the line. But with that being said I have the mechanical ability and (most of the) tools to do the work needed to bring a subpar weapon up to snuff.
Working on a 1911 is a skill that is built over years. At Wilson they have their techs spend 12-24 months learning each job (tuning a trigger, etc).
Having worked on DOZENS of gun designs over the past 30 years has taught me a few things:
a) Buy right and cry once. Buy wrong and cry thrice (when you buy wrong, when you lose money selling it, and again when you buy right).
b) Life is too short for subpar gear.
c) I'm more committed than 99% of people. After all, I've read many many times the average "shooter" actually shoots less than 200 RDS of center fire year (I shoot that many per week per weapon design - which is a huge step down for me brought on by ammo prices).
d) A lot of people think they can build up a "just as good as a top brand" with a tier two base gun. This simply is not true. A typical Les Baer starts life with 24-48 hours of hand fitting and assembly by master builders. A Wilson is hand built and fired between each step - by master craftsman that have been doing that ONE function for years. A Colt Defense AR complies with 40 years of US Military testing, experimentation, and research by complying with the MILLIONS OF DOLLARS OF RESEACH/TESTING AND BILLIONS OF ROUNDS EXPENDED inspired TDP which only a few have ever even had the priviledge of reading.
I'm not trying to be a male reproductive organ, but I 100% disagree and have WELL over 100,000 rounds down range and hundreds of guns owned over 30 years as a basis of my opinion.
My Colt is NO WHERE on par with a Wilson or Les Bauer. BUT the guy that worked on it has probably 50 years as a gun smith and has actually built his own guns from scratch (Rifles). I've probably only 500 rounds though it and (THANKFULLY) never missed a lick.
My 100,000 center fire statement is intentionally EXCEPTIONALLY LOW.
Eight years ago my safe had 23 factory built ARs from seven manufacturers in it. I would shoot 350-500 rounds per trip to the range. I went to the range at least once a week and often as many as three timss a week. Do the math.
I built my first AR in 1984 and have owned DOZENS AND DOZENS over the past 3 decades. I've been fixing my own and friend's during that entire 30 years. I will only own BCM and Colt factory builds now. Ask me why? I've grown tired of wasting time on subpar parts, assembly, knowledge and QC. It's just easier to spend 10-15% more and get the right one from the start.
Twelve years ago I had five Class 3 full autos in my safe. I would spend evenings sitting at my reloading bench so I could take 1500rds a weekend to the range. This lasted for about 12 months. Do that math.
I sold all of my class 3 items a long time ago.
My AR collection is down to a couple of BCM and Colts that I'm trying to sell off. Why? The same reason I sold my AK collection (2x Arsenal SGL21, 7x Arsenal SLR-106 and 3x Arsenal SLR-107) last year / this year....
I found a better mousetrap with a 45,000rd barrel life which actually matters to a guy that will wear out a barrel of that making in 7 years.
My 100,000 center fire statement is intentionally EXCEPTIONALLY LOW.
Eight years ago my safe had 23 factory built ARs from seven manufacturers in it. I would shoot 350-500 rounds per trip to the range. I went to the range at least once a week and often as many as three timss a week. Do the math.
I built my first AR in 1984 and have owned DOZENS AND DOZENS over the past 3 decades. I've been fixing my own and friend's during that entire 30 years. I will only own BCM and Colt factory builds now. Ask me why? I've grown tired of wasting time on subpar parts, assembly, knowledge and QC. It's just easier to spend 10-15% more and get the right one from the start.
Twelve years ago I had five Class 3 full autos in my safe. I would spend evenings sitting at my reloading bench so I could take 1500rds a weekend to the range. This lasted for about 12 months. Do that math.
I sold all of my class 3 items a long time ago.
My AR collection is down to a couple of BCM and Colts that I'm trying to sell off. Why? The same reason I sold my AK collection (2x Arsenal SGL21, 7x Arsenal SLR-106 and 3x Arsenal SLR-107) last year / this year....
I found a better mousetrap with a 45,000rd barrel life which actually matters to a guy that will wear out a barrel of that making in 7 years.
The last paragraph, you're talking about your Scar, right, AND or your Les Baer?
My philosophy has changed many times over the years, but it's been settled in one direction for the last four or five:
Shrink my collection to less "manual of arms" and only have a two copies on a single top-of-the-line gun. The days of 5 copies of a single design are over.
My collection is settling out to be:
(2) Ruger Mk3 (2) Ruger 10/22 Stainless Carbine with Leupold Scopes (2) Ruger 10/22 Stainless Takedown with Tech Sights (2) Ruger LCP (2) Glock 19 (2) Glock 26 (2) S&W Shield 9 (2) 1911 (Les Baer Stainless Custom Carry and Ed Brown Executive Elite) (2) HK 45Acp (2) FN Scar-16 with ACOG (2) FN Scar-17 with ACOG (2) Springfield Armory SAR-48 (2) Benelli M1 Super 90
Why two? One in use and one in reserve. The reserve is tested and placed in tr safe but available for duty should the primary go down. The primary gets replaced or repaired as necessary. If the primary wears out - a new replacement is bought / tested and becomes the reserve. Gear rotation.
I'm getting close to being down to this collection. I have (3) Rem 870, a couple of ARs, (2) Marlin 22WMR, (1) LCP, (1) Ruger Mk3, several 10/22, and (1) Scar to sell and I'll have my perfect collection.
I found a better mousetrap with a 45,000rd barrel life which actually matters to a guy that will wear out a barrel of that making in 7 years.
The last paragraph, you're talking about your Scar, right, AND or your Les Baer?
Yes and no.
Yes to the Scar and no to the Baer. For high round count HG I prefer Glock 9mm and HK 45Acps. However, nothing shoots as well as a 1911 for me - so it has to be a top builder.
It would really be nice to have a range that close. I would probably do more shooting if I had something that close. Used to (When I was a Kid,and YES we did have "Modern" firearms back then) we could shoot right behind the house my Folks sold last year. NOT ANY MORE.
I would rather shoot a 1911 style than any other handgun. BUT the older I get the more I appreciate the simpler manual of arms of the glock/sig, et al guns.
My philosophy has changed many times over the years, but it's been settled in one direction for the last four or five:
Shrink my collection to less "manual of arms" and only have a two copies on a single top-of-the-line gun. The days of 5 copies of a single design are over.
My collection is settling out to be:
(2) Ruger Mk3 (2) Ruger 10/22 Stainless Carbine with Leupold Scopes (2) Ruger 10/22 Stainless Takedown with Tech Sights (2) Ruger LCP (2) Glock 19 (2) Glock 26 (2) S&W Shield 9 (2) 1911 (Les Baer Stainless Custom Carry and Ed Brown Executive Elite) (2) HK 45Acp (2) FN Scar-16 with ACOG (2) FN Scar-17 with ACOG (2) Springfield Armory SAR-48 (2) Benelli M1 Super 90
Why two? One in use and one in reserve. The reserve is tested and placed in tr safe but available for duty should the primary go down. The primary gets replaced or repaired as necessary. If the primary wears out - a new replacement is bought / tested and becomes the reserve. Gear rotation.
I'm getting close to being down to this collection. I have (3) Rem 870, a couple of ARs, (2) Marlin 22WMR, (1) LCP, (1) Ruger Mk3, several 10/22, and (1) Scar to sell and I'll have my perfect collection.
Ruger Mk3 - cheap plinking, warm up, smallest small-game pack gun Ruger LCP - lightest clothes / deepest concealment CCW Glock 19 - general purpose / EOTW Glock 26 - EDC S&W Shield 9 - preferred option for deep concealment (over LCP) when allowed by attire. HK 45Acp - house gun / EOTW 1911 - preferred carry gun (I can pretty much guareentee where each round is going to land which lowers my chance of landing in a courtroom)
10/22 Carbine with Leupold - small game, plinking, farm varmint control 10/22 Takedown with Tech Sights - pack rifle / EOTW game getter FN Scar 16 with ACOG - wife's all purpose FN Scar 17 with ACOG - my all purpose Springfield SAR-48 FAL - my Mad Max scenario gun
Oh hey Gary, any suggestions on what I should do to my Glock 19 (besides a set of sights)? I still think I am going to go for a set of (What used to be called) Ashley Express sight.
If I was going to add anything to my list it would be:
(2) Colt 6529 [AR-15A2 Government Carbines with 16" Lightweight Barrels and Fixed A2 Carry Handles].
I'm struggling with my decision to sell these two, because IM(not so)HO they are EVERYTHING an AR should be:
SUPER LIGHT (5.8 pounds) SUPER ACCURATE (best sights ever placed on a military rifle ... I do slightly prefer the A1 for durability) SUPER COMPACT (no rails, etc to clutter up a KISS carbine) SUPER ACCURATE
These simply make uber handy KISS carbines. I ran 250rds thru one of my two 6520 (not 6920), and 200 each thru my two Scar 16 last weekend. The little Colt was just a joy compared to the 10 pound (once scope / accessories are mounted) FN.
When I say "ran" this is literal. For me shooting is a zero check on the bench and then I'm up running drills. This includes lugging the gun up and down hills every few mags (200 yards round trip). This breaks the "hang every piece of cool-guy crap mentality quickly when it's 98F with 95% humidity.
Less is more when you actually start vetting accessories.
All that is needed on a fighting carbine:
A1) The most durable fixed sights available (like the LMT SOPMOD fixed rear)
Or
A2) The most durable / kiss low power (or variable) optic (like an ACOG or Nightforce 1-4) combined with the most durable fold down front and rear BUIS (like Troy Battlesights). NOTE: front food down is manditory with low power optics - you will see a fixed front sight thru your scope and this is a big detriment to getting fast)
B) The best white light you can buy (like Surefire Scout)
C) The best two point sling you can buy (like Vickers)
That's it.
My wife likes a VFG because it helps offset her limited upper body strength. I like them as a hand stop (indexes weak hand in same place without thinking about it) and as a control / retention assist. They are not, however, mandatory.
My opinions are a lot like my world view and personality: unforgivingly direct and blunt but paid for with a lifetime of actual experience. This experience borders on excess as I'm one of those over-achiever types who simply does not settle for second best.
Many folks mistake honest, and bluntness for rudeness. I DO NOT! I like frankness, even if I do not like the answer. It ensures you know the answer/where you stand.
Haha, I have added a steel mag release to it and three steel mags. This IS NOT a drop free (Mag) gun. Oh well, I still like it. Yeah I have shot it but I do need to shoot it more.
But first I need to put some sights on it considering how I ripped off the rear plastic sight! The next ones will be steel, big dot front and V rear.
Springfields are full of MIM parts if that matters to you? I'm a "wait a little longer for a better gun" person.
As such, I'd recommend looking at a Dan Wesson Valor or used Les Baer Custom Carry or TRS.
No MIM in the Valor line or any LB.
It's funny you mention the Valor because I spent a couple days reading up on them! Also spent some time looking at videos and reading on Wilson Combat...oh mama...some fine looking firearms. Ended up dreaming about owning one the other night! Lol!
I sent postal money orders (plural since they are only available up to $1000 each) off yesterday afternoon for my latest 1911 addition:
Ed Brown Executive Elite with: (Added cost) Skipline checkering (Added cost) Gen3 coating over stainless
I've had three Les Baer (currently own one) and have always wanted to try a Ed Brown. So when I traded my SA TRP last week I needed another 1911 to fulfill my "two of each" principle.
I stepped up to the plate big time on this one. Reports to follow after it arrives.
The Brown will be my carry gun while the Stainless LB will be the reserve. I'm choosing the EB EE for carry because:
1) coated stainless (no shiny reflections to get me killed) 2) no tool take down. LB require tools because they are extremely tight.
Rich, Save and buy right. You will never regret getting the best gun. You will always second guess anything less.
Les Baer is the best value in a semi-custom. The DW Valor is a great gun but for an extra $350 you can have a Baer with much greater resell potential and EXCEPTIONAL accuracy.
It's nice to just get out, take a break from daddy duties, relax and shoot. Shooting (and archery) are very zen/relaxing for me...except when I suck at shooting! Hah!
Gary, I figure you are right. I could be more patient and get a real beauty...with CZ distributing the Dan Wessons...plays into my CZ loyalties!
Read an accuracy review by a big 1911 guy...Dan Severn??? He documented some insane accuracy with Valors he modded.
The new Springfield Armory RO Commander looks sweet to me too.
When should you get the Ed Brown and what time should I come over to shoot it?!
I figure payment and FFL will land on Monday or Tuesday. It's being shipped the same day so I should have it Thursday.
I ran over to the range to sight in my 10/22 Takedown. Here's the 50 yard results with fifteen year old Thunderbolts.
FIVE SHOT GROUP @ 50 YARDS WITH IRON SIGHTS
This was my first trip out with this rifle. I think with quality ammo and me trying harder - it'll definitely do it's specified function (back pack game meat slayer).
I wasn't bragging about the 5 shot / 50 yard group. It was an educational tool for everyone. A standard takedown 10/22 with iron sights and 15 year old budget ammo is capable of respectable performance.
I figure payment and FFL will land on Monday or Tuesday. It's being shipped the same day so I should have it Thursday.
I ran over to the range to sight in my 10/22 Takedown. Here's the 50 yard results with fifteen year old Thunderbolts.
FIVE SHOT GROUP @ 50 YARDS WITH IRON SIGHTS
This was my first trip out with this rifle. I think with quality ammo and me trying harder - it'll definitely do it's specified function (back pack game meat slayer).
Rich, have you handled a CZ97? I remember you mentioned something about them a while back.
I like both 1911's and CZ97's, but I don't see myself getting either. It would really just be something that I would leisurely shoot at the range. I suppose I could use it as a house gun, but my Glock 21 already fills that role. No doubt they both shoot better than the Glock, but I just love my 21.
I find myself in the market for a carry piece. It has to be a single stack, semi auto, .45 ACP, small enough to easily conceal, and have no manual safties. I have it narrowed to the Glock 36 and Kahr CW45. The Kahr is smaller, lighter, and cheaper than the Glock. I'm really tempted by the Kahr, but brand loyalty and proven reliability pull me toward the Glock. Anyone have anything to offer here?
Adam, check out the used ones. My first one was a used cops gun and I had NO problems with it. If the Polymer frame of the P250 doesn't bother you they are just shy of 5 bills from Sig, so.....
What do you think this package from war sport industries is worth? Trying to decide if I should pull the trigger or wait and build a lower or buy a bcm lower from ranier...
LVOA Carbine Carry Bag: LVOA Bag Weight: 18.5 Oz LVOA Bag Dim: 26” x 13” Fabric: 1000D Made in USA
Rich, have you handled a CZ97? I remember you mentioned something about them a while back.
I like both 1911's and CZ97's, but I don't see myself getting either. It would really just be something that I would leisurely shoot at the range. I suppose I could use it as a house gun, but my Glock 21 already fills that role. No doubt they both shoot better than the Glock, but I just love my 21.
I find myself in the market for a carry piece. It has to be a single stack, semi auto, .45 ACP, small enough to easily conceal, and have no manual safties. I have it narrowed to the Glock 36 and Kahr CW45. The Kahr is smaller, lighter, and cheaper than the Glock. I'm really tempted by the Kahr, but brand loyalty and proven reliability pull me toward the Glock. Anyone have anything to offer here?
No, haven't seen the 97- had some time w/out the kids this week and didn't make it to a lgs to see if they had one...they have a bunch on CZ and Dan Wessons usually. I tend to keep bouncing around with what I want. Last week I was thinking how I like CZs and I bet I would like the 97 and would be uber reliable. Then I see some videos on 1911s and start lusting after them! Lol!
I have many wants...my needs are probably "Practice more with my CZ 9mm and get some decent training!"
After I posted about how few rounds I put through my 9 every week I thought "$1000 would buy a lot of practice time at the range!"
What do you think this package from war sport industries is worth? Trying to decide if I should pull the trigger or wait and build a lower or buy a bcm lower from ranier...
LVOA Carbine Carry Bag: LVOA Bag Weight: 18.5 Oz LVOA Bag Dim: 26” x 13” Fabric: 1000D Made in USA
Working on a 1911 is a skill that is built over years. At Wilson they have their techs spend 12-24 months learning each job (tuning a trigger, etc).
Having worked on DOZENS of gun designs over the past 30 years has taught me a few things:
a) Buy right and cry once. Buy wrong and cry thrice (when you buy wrong, when you lose money selling it, and again when you buy right).
b) Life is too short for subpar gear.
c) I'm more committed than 99% of people. After all, I've read many many times the average "shooter" actually shoots less than 200 RDS of center fire year (I shoot that many per week per weapon design - which is a huge step down for me brought on by ammo prices).
d) A lot of people think they can build up a "just as good as a top brand" with a tier two base gun. This simply is not true. A typical Les Baer starts life with 24-48 hours of hand fitting and assembly by master builders. A Wilson is hand built and fired between each step - by master craftsman that have been doing that ONE function for years. A Colt Defense AR complies with 40 years of US Military testing, experimentation, and research by complying with the MILLIONS OF DOLLARS OF RESEACH/TESTING AND BILLIONS OF ROUNDS EXPENDED inspired TDP which only a few have ever even had the priviledge of reading.
I'm not trying to be a male reproductive organ, but I 100% disagree and have WELL over 100,000 rounds down range and hundreds of guns owned over 30 years as a basis of my opinion.
No I don't think you are being a Deek Arch I understand your point of view totally. But my situation would put me at one gun and a few knifes if I played by those rules. I would at this pint with the circumstances being what they are I would rather have enough decent weapons to get me through than only one great weapon. Trust me if I was making enough to get out of my house in town and buy top of the line weapons I would. I just cant I don't get to keep enough of my money hell almost half of it is gone before it even gets to me. If everything goes hunky dory (very unlikely) then I will have to suck up the loss of cash but when the SHTF I will be glad to have what I have.
PS how the he11 are you loading that much I cant even find powder to restock and it makes me not want to use what I have.
We are all good Arch I just haven't had the 30 years to stock up yet the government supplied my weapons and ammo for the 15 years before I started buying my own.
I stopped reloading years ago when ammo prices dropped. I was buying brass case 9mm for $110 a case (1000) delivered, and 5.56x45 surplus for $129 a case (820). It actually cost more to reload so I sold my set up and bought ammo.
That ammo was shot years ago and now I can't even find 9mm locally.
If I could go back 10 years ago I'd buy every 550rd box of Federal Bulk Pack 22LR that Walmart's within a 1 hour drive received every week, because I was paying $8.96 per 550rds (plus tax). That same box is now $39.99 at our local Walmart and I rarely see them on the shelves.
I've been selling off my excess collection to buy ammo for training. The anti-gunners beat us by using the same method I've long suggested we use against them: starvation. They're starving us thru artificially inflated ammo prices resulting from their multi BILLION round orders. (I've often said a pandemic tax revolt would be the only real way to have reform: it would starve the government resulting in angry mobs when entitlements were no delivered and ultimately would force the FR to print more fiat currency. The ultimate result would be hyper inflation followed by economic collapse followed by a return to the truly private gold standard).
I feel your pain, brother. Nothing makes me sicker than selling a Colt AR for less than I paid just to turn around and buy ammo that is 250% higher than it was three years ago.
I even bought a BB gun as an attempt to stay proficient without bankrupting us!
I had been thinking if getting a .357 H&R Handi Rifle some day. I just recalled that the H&R and NEF shotguns are built on the same receivers (SB1) as the pistol caliber rifles. I went back to the shop and got a case hardened NEF 3" 12 gauge for $80 otd. I'll probably send it in at some point for a .357 barrel. I was told it would run about $140. It seems a lot of guys are teeming them out to .357 maximum and getting good results. The shotgun barrel might come in handy if I ever get around to doing some turkey hunting.
Let me know how this goes sounds like a great way to have a backpackable multi caliber gun.
Well, last week I ran across a new .357 handi and decided to just buy it and be done with it. Guy said they had layaway and since I'm not in any rush to use it I decided it can sit at the shop until a couple months before deer season starts. I usually can't seem to find one come that time so it works for me. Our hunting rules will actually be changing soon to where we can use whatever rifle you want on private land during primitive weapon seasons. I just always wanted a .357 handi rifle and this one will be for plinking and handing to any new shooters or hunters who may want to hunt with me. I bought an old 30-30 for that role but decided I didn't like the idea of inexperienced folks having to pull the trigger to drop the hammer after they chambered a round. Maybe as they (meaning "I") get more comfortable I will move them to the 30-30 but I think a single shot .357 will do just fine for anybody where we will hunt. Reamed out to .357 maximum should also make it an interesting rifle to have in the hunting lineup.
I don't know what I will do with my 45-70 handi rifle. I guess I will lock it up and let it collect dust until I figure it all out. The next hunting rifle I want to get is a .308 or .300wm bolt rifle and I think either of those may sort of diminish any reasons I could have for keeping the 45-70 handi. Maybe not as big a pill but still plenty of reach and plenty enough medicine for these parts. The only plus to the 45-70 is that other than the $30 one piece rings I most likely wouldn't spend another dime on that rifle including buying any more ammo. I have 4 boxes of lever revolution ammo and it shoots that great. It's not that much of plinker (to me) and it's all about the meat. The rifle probably wont see 50 rounds in my lifetime if it remains in my possession. While I'm sure it will be worth it if decided to use it the whole "primitive weapons season" was the main reason for owning it. And the .357 handi would now have me covered if I should ever end up on public hunting grounds. A barrel swap to .308 or 7.62x39 may be the way to go with this one...
This post got long... Was just thinking out loud...
Yeah I used to shoot a 550 count every week. Haven't shot that in a year Being A poor college student with an annual income of $24000 before taxes, before bills. Guns and gear is a very painful investment. I can only buy the best I can afford but can even afford the ammo to practice with the guns I can afford. And I won't buy the cheapest guns. I shoot for mid range quality.
I''ve been trying to convince myself to sell my M1A and SLR-107 to fund a SCAR17. I think it's the "buy thrice" part that's bugging me. But looking at what I will spend to make the M1A and SLR107 what I want them to be I'd still come up short and likely have spent what it would cost me to just get everything sorted out.
I stopped reloading years ago when ammo prices dropped. I was buying brass case 9mm for $110 a case (1000) delivered, and 5.56x45 surplus for $129 a case (820). It actually cost more to reload so I sold my set up and bought ammo.
That ammo was shot years ago and now I can't even find 9mm locally.
If I could go back 10 years ago I'd buy every 550rd box of Federal Bulk Pack 22LR that Walmart's within a 1 hour drive received every week, because I was paying $8.96 per 550rds (plus tax). That same box is now $39.99 at our local Walmart and I rarely see them on the shelves.
I've been selling off my excess collection to buy ammo for training. The anti-gunners beat us by using the same method I've long suggested we use against them: starvation. They're starving us thru artificially inflated ammo prices resulting from their multi BILLION round orders. (I've often said a pandemic tax revolt would be the only real way to have reform: it would starve the government resulting in angry mobs when entitlements were no delivered and ultimately would force the FR to print more fiat currency. The ultimate result would be hyper inflation followed by economic collapse followed by a return to the truly private gold standard).
I feel your pain, brother. Nothing makes me sicker than selling a Colt AR for less than I paid just to turn around and buy ammo that is 250% higher than it was three years ago.
I even bought a BB gun as an attempt to stay proficient without bankrupting us!
Dang I was hoping you had a secret reloading supply line. LOL I have been stacking as much silver as I can which has been almost none lately so when the dollar crashes out I have something besides my necessities with real value. I have a grim view of our future I hope it doesn't come to it but I fear it will.
I hear you on the .22LR I even sold mine and bought a 17 HMR because ammo is available and at pre crazy prices.
I am looking into selling many of my toys to pay down debt and get closer to getting out of town. If I could find more than a pound of powder at a time I would try to get more of that as well. I am pretty well stocked but as I said I really don't want to use what I cant replace. I think I am going to have to start frequenting the gun shows again hoping to find a deal.
I will be adding a Wilson combat to my line up as soon as I make it out of town and I would also like to add one of there ARs to my line up as well but those are at least 2 years out.
I''ve been trying to convince myself to sell my M1A and SLR-107 to fund a SCAR17. I think it's the "buy thrice" part that's bugging me. But looking at what I will spend to make the M1A and SLR107 what I want them to be I'd still come up short and likely have spent what it would cost me to just get everything sorted out.
The 17 is available for $2500 now which is considerably less than I paid for my two Heavies.
Yeah I used to shoot a 550 count every week. Haven't shot that in a year Being A poor college student with an annual income of $24000 before taxes, before bills. Guns and gear is a very painful investment. I can only buy the best I can afford but can even afford the ammo to practice with the guns I can afford. And I won't buy the cheapest guns. I shoot for mid range quality.
$24000 is an OUTSTANDING income for a college student. I made $25000 my first year out of school (as a top of class graduate architect) and my bachelor degreed wife was making $15 per hour ($30k) after ten years at her bank when she quit two years ago.
Yeah but it doesn't go very far these days even coupon shopping for my food. I know it better than most kids my age and I don't even have a college degree yet. Last year was my first year of college and last spring I graduated with a certificate in precision manufacturing. This fall I will get my CNC programming certificate. This spring I will graduate with a precision manufacturing degree and a CNC programming degree( all this in 2 years total). I worked hard and have maintained a 4.0 GPA and was lucky enough for a aerospace machining company to hire me and offer to put $2000 a year towards my school.
Yeah I used to shoot a 550 count every week. Haven't shot that in a year Being A poor college student with an annual income of $24000 before taxes, before bills. Guns and gear is a very painful investment. I can only buy the best I can afford but can even afford the ammo to practice with the guns I can afford. And I won't buy the cheapest guns. I shoot for mid range quality.
$24000 is an OUTSTANDING income for a college student. I made $25000 my first year out of school (as a top of class graduate architect) and my bachelor degreed wife was making $15 per hour ($30k) after ten years at her bank when she quit two years ago.
I was thinking the same thing. I made $19,000/yr as a Sergeant in the Marine Corps, and I was on the clock 24 hours a day, and I wasn't smart enough to GI Bill my way into some type of degree. You're doing good, gun dog.
Thanks guys I know I'm very blessed. It's sometimes hard to remember I'm years behind y'all in my gun purchasing prepping stuff. But good things come to those that wait right?
During my last week of service I attended a separations class. The class was being given by a civilian, and it was on finding work out in the "real world." He talked about writing a resume, dressing for an interview (this was the first time I had ever heard of worsted wool, and for some reason that stuck with me), and selling yourself. He asked the question "does anyone here not want to make $60k/yr?" and I raised my hand. I said I wanted to make $100k/yr. I was so naive. I made $23k my first year out, then a couple years later I went on salary and made $28k/yr, but worked way more hours so it ended up being a pay cut.
I have a good job now, but when I look back on that I am so embarassed by that "$100k" comment. I am laughing about it right now.
Yep $16 an hour plus tuition assistance plus full vision great dental and health care for $20 a month are pretty rare for a 21 year old guy. Next year I get two weeks paid vacation. If I stay at the company 7 years I can make $33 and hour. Get time and a half over time and double time on Sundays. Oh and $100 boot allowance
Mike, If you start your own shop, you will work MUCH harder, MUCH longer and for MUCH less pay than you are making now. Of course there are exceptions.
My delema is that it a production type of machining and all you do is adjust tooling and load and unload fixtures. It not fun or enjoyable work. It's only so challanging. It's not exactly the high quality type if work. And all the union guys are a bunch if miserable people that make each others lives miserable to. While it's and amazing job for money and benefits someday I may be forced to choose between that and working someplace doing something I enjoy. So it's a strange situation for me.
I''ve been trying to convince myself to sell my M1A and SLR-107 to fund a SCAR17. I think it's the "buy thrice" part that's bugging me. But looking at what I will spend to make the M1A and SLR107 what I want them to be I'd still come up short and likely have spent what it would cost me to just get everything sorted out.
The 17 is available for $2500 now which is considerably less than I paid for my two Heavies.
I have been seeing those prices lately and it's made it hard not to contemplate my options to get there. I tried to convince myself the SCAR17 was "too much" and out of reach but I think it's the rifle for me.
I guess I'll take the 107 and M1A to the gun show this weekend.
Slickguns is basically a sending-site where people post deals so you can find the best price on something. I've used it from time to time with good results.
I'd be happy to get $2500 out of my extra Scar-17 I have for sale. What I paid eight months ago versus what they're selling for now is rather depressing. Gun sales have nose dived recently, and the prices are reflecting this. The series of panic buying left a lot of people bitter and financially broken. Combined with the insane ammo price and availability issues - the market is dry.
Maybe 6 months ago I witnessed a guy sell his SCAR17 with a lnib Eotech and a hundred or so rounds of custom target ammo to a LGS for $2K. I think there was a sling, couple mags, and a couple other accessories. Everything in the orginal boxes and guy says he bought it during the "panic" and shot it about 50 times and then realized they didn't need that much rifle.
Yes all that for 2K!!!!! I thought he was just selling the rifle at first and tried to convince him to give me a day or so. He had already struck the deal with the lgs was waiting on the cash. This is a lgs that sells a SCAR17 for $3K with $210 in state sales tax.
Yes, but not for $2000 with an EoTech, etc. By the way, if he shot the H with that Eo attached - it wasn't long for this world. The Heavy eats EoTechs.
Can you run a rifle length gas system on a carbine lower? If not what do you need to change to make it happen?
The lower has very little impact on function. The only component in the lower that has an impact on function is the weight of the buffer.
Most people use an H or H2 buffer in a carbine length system, and a carbine or H in a midlength. A 16" barrel with a regular fixed stock would be a carbine buffer solution.
The weight of the Scar's bolt carrier is significant and results in a "forward recoil" effect (similar to an air rifle) which has been damaging optics. Hardened optics like current ACOGs and Night Forces haven't been damaged. Apparently, Elcan Specter DRs are good to go as well.
However, I wouldn't recommend a traditional Leupold, EoTech, Aimpoint, Accupoint, etc.
I've not personally experienced this, but have been involved in enough discussions with people who have (including pictures of dead optics) to believe it is a real issue. Also, .gov now only issues Specter DRs with the Heavy. This probably lends credibility to the issue since they would be hard pressed to find a more expensive option.
As with a lot of "problems" I think this one is over hyped, but I do believe it to be a real issue. Therefore, I'm mitigating my risk by only using the aforementioned optics.
I've never had a Night Force, but have enough testamony to believe they're "Scar Proof".
Ok. I just ordered a LVOA lower from war sport and I'm trying to decide what upper to use. I was tempted to put a rifle upper together or build on the RECCE rifle concept.
When you get the lower in have your ffl register it as a pistol so you can use it as a pistol and a rifle.
I AM NOT A LAWYER, so don't take this as legal advice, and do your own research:
The way I understand Federal law, all stripped virgin lowers have to be transferred as other/receiver and from there you can build it into a pistol or a rifle as you wish. If your FFL transfer a stripped virgin lower as anything else, they're doing it wrong. Get a copy of the 4473 for your records.
If the receiver has even once been built into a gun (barrel and maybe stock attached), it remains what you made it into and must after that be transferred as such.
A pistol can supposedly always be made into a rifle, but a rifle has to stay a rifle. Be careful, it's very easy to accidentally be in possession of an illegal short barrel rifle, even if you simply own parts that can only be configured as an SBR. Like owning a pistol and a buffer tube with a collapsible stock in a box in your garage, but no long gun upper.
Between Federal law, ATF regulations, and local laws, there's a lot of grey area to building an AR pistol, so make sure you really do your homework first.
According to the Feds, a new, stripped lower can be built as a pistol, converted to a rifle and back to a pistol. It can be changed to either at any time. A new, stripped lower, when built as a rifle must remain a rifle and cannot be built into a pistol at any time in the future.
Gun show is this weekend... I guess I'll go walk around with my M1A and/or SLR107. I would love for these two to pay for it but I guess if i was to wind up with anything over $2K I can probably go ahead and get a SCAR17.
Nope... Haven't actually held one or seen one other than online. I'm expecting it to be a smaller than my FNP45 but a bit heavier. I wish we had a place locally but we don't see much CZ stuff down here.
So I got a ljs low profile gas block. It's the set screw type. It's identical to the Troy and is made by the same machine shop. Just $19. Planning on tomorrow ordering a 20" 410 stainless blackened SAM-R barrel from bcm. Then as soon as I can afford it a voltor MUR. And then I'm torn between saving for a DD light rail 3 15 in rail or getting the Troy sdmr 15 in rail. Add a auto BCG ( not sure whose yet) With a bcm gun fighter charging handle then just folding sight flash hider and gas tube any thoughts or ideas with these parts and this build?
From what I've read, if you're concerned with size then get the aluminum grips as they are slimmer.
Yep, that's what I read too. Watched a YouTube video last night and saw it in hand, that owner thought the "it's so big..." talk is overblown a bit. That was good to hear.
Another dealer who has a SCAR17 wants both the M1A and SLR107 with another $500 on top that's $2800 for the SCAR. Was tempting because I could walk with it but that's just too steep for me to stomach.
holding that SCAR17 sure made it hard to walk away. I almost had forgotten how light they are.
I would agree but this is going free float to milk every ounce of accuracy out of that barrel I can. My next upper probably will get that. I'm torn between the Daniel Defense light rail III 15 in or the Troy sdmr rail. About $100 difference between the two.
I have handled a few of the troy products they seem as good as the other top brands. Have you picked up a full length AR with a quad rail all decked out they are heavy which IMNSHO defeats the purpose of the weapon system. That being said it will be your weapon so deck it out how you like.
I'm still leaning toward the DD light rail lll but it's like $395 The Troy SDMR is $100 less but then later to add rail sections the cost adds up fast. I've never used key mod so is it better to just spend the money and get all the rail or get a key mod and add later. I'm guessing when it's all said and done the two will cost about the same and weigh about the same.
If you had to pick between these or a 15in aluminum rail what would y'all pick?
Now just have to see what I can do with the SLR107. I don't find many local folks who care about any differences between a $500 AK and a $1000 AK. I'm thinking I may have to list this one online.
Guess he's choosing from a pretty elite/sweet group! Can't go wrong with any I guess. Helped push me over the edge...will try and get a Dan Wesson Heritage at some point I think...
In other news, bought bulk 22 lr today...for like the 6-7x in last few weeks. Woohoo!
My attempt at scoping a couple rifles didn't work out but Eh...
I am still wanting a light folding x39 "bullet hose" so next week I may go ahead and order a VS58. Maybe that will help me get the 107 on out the door. I
I don't know much about 1911 pistols but I was like a moth to a flame at the last gun show. I don't know what it was about that particular Dan Wesson but I had to handle it. If I was a 1911 guy the DW would certainly be high on my list.
From what I hear, the S&W 1911s pull off that eternal extractor flawlessly, which is akin to ancient voodoo when it comes to that platform, haha. I've always had a spiritual connection with the 1911, it just fits the hand.
Mike, I don't understand all the broohaha about MIM parts. Are they fragile, more prone to breakage due to not really having a grain flow, more like a fiberglass boat made with the chopped glass method?
Yeah, is it that serious? Right after posting I started looking at the SA Loaded model and got tempted. $300 to $400 less than a heritage...that's a bunch of ammo...less time to save and get into the gun too. I like the looks of the SA 1911s too...
Most MIM parts are more pourious and not as well bound together at the molecular level. Metal ha a crystalline structure and forged and roled stock is better structured and denser. There for stronger than material that is MIM. Surfaces that rub or parts that take stress need to be strong. I'm not getting anything with MIM parts if I can help it. I'm not saying they are all bad. Glock M&P and more have good reputations and use MIM parts. But some guns IMHO are better serviced by other parts. The big advantage in the DW 1911 is the parts that are MIM in other brands are TOOL STEEL. Much tougher and better suited for the job. It's just like knives. Yeah a knife out of cheaper steel can work. But there is a reason We buy Kin knives.
I've selected Nighthawk components for my Rudius build... problem is I don't have the machining skill necessary to complete the 80% lower on my own, and nobody with a Machine shop who could walk me through the process...
Oh, and I'm still waiting on the 2500$ for the Nighthawk components too...
With 1911's, I have to remember to chant at the proper time, dance, and spin around until I'm dizzy, while scratching an itch on a llama's [censored] (speaking of, where can I get a Llama?), AND operate the drill press with my left pinky toe, or the end product will run like a clock with a gear missing...
I thought about it, but I couldn't validate spending as much as I did for the Frame on a jig that I'll only use once. Unless I decide to pick up a few more frames and build more than one in the future, it just feels like a waste of $$$ :\
As a machinist I have to agree that without proper tools, knowledge and experince jigs and fixtures are your best bets at creating something functional.
My trade your learn to buy a quality tool once. Don't skimp and cut corners. You will regret it. Buy the quality tool use it and set it back for another project.
Thanks for the insight guys, I'm leaning toward the jig more and more. maybe in a month when I've saved a bit, I'll place the order for it. Ares Armor is having a hayday slamming the ATF, I think they could use the income. Glad I have found a way to contribute
On another note, I was digging through an old footlocker a friend of mine gave me, and Lo and Behold realized I had a fully functional and lovingly packed set of reloading equipment.
Almost every tool I could need to set up a single stage reloading bench. For free...
Nice, if you find powder buy it I cant seem to find anything around here so online is my only option and it comes with a 28 dollar hazmat fee but it is still worth it I just buy in bulk when I can.
Oddly enough, every time I've gone into Sportsman's warehouse they've had some in stock. usually the huge container of it, but they have it. everyone buys out the smaller jugs quick fast and in a hurry though.
Primers too, I thought those were getting hard to find
I could be off but I think the idea basically is as follows...
FFP keeps the measurements the same regardless of the magnificstion settings by allowing the reticle to change with the level of magnification. With SFP the reticle remains the same size no matter what the magnification level I so you would have to adjust data and calculations and such accordingly to compensate for the differences between the reticle size and level of magnification.
From my limited understanding of FFP vs SFP I think that is correct. It seems SFP scopes will have a reticle that is optimum at full power. When ranged properly FFP a MIL adjustment to your reticle is equivalent to a MIL on the target no matter if it's 25 yards or 250 yards.
Here you go guys this is about as simple explanation as I could find.
Reticle placement within the erector tube determines if the riflescope is a First or Second Focal Plane. The erector assembly is a critical assembly within the riflescope and is what is responsible for magnifying or de-magnifying the image.
A reticle in the First Focal Plane is placed at the front of the erector assembly and remains in the same visual proportion to the target across the riflescopes entire magnification range. While the proportions of the reticle will appear to change when adjusting the magnification, in reality the reticles values are remaining in proportion to the target. This is beneficial for rapid ranging and holdovers at various distances and magnifications.
A reticle in the Second Focal Plane is placed at the rear of the erector assembly will appear to stay constant in size across the magnification range. The reticle subtensions are set at a pre-determined magnification change as magnification changes. Simple math can be used to determine the change in values, yet the reticle line size will remain consistent for a fine aiming point regardless of magnification.
Ok interesting. I'm considering what kinda optic to run on this rifle once built. I'm Not sure if I want to run a 1-4 or a 2-7 or a 2.5-10 I've got the mark AR base 1-4 on my 15-22 and like its speed for aiming. But would like an illuminated rectical and thinking the 20 Sam-r barrel would deserve more zoom. So I noticed the leopuld mark 4 MRT and the vortex PST optics. Batteries are a total down fall and trijicon beats that but at a big price tag.
But from tactical raccoon elimination in the dark I realized a lighted rectical is a must
Greaser's definitions are spot on. In my experience, running at lower magnifications, I would go with a FFP scope, reason being: FFP scopes have a tendency to obscure the target at higher magnifications (it's often perceived that way, anyways). At a lower magnification (I've used them up to 10x and loved them), it will allow you to dial in your dope without having to add another factor to the equation, which is at the least more work, and at worst allows for yet another error to throw the shot. You can't miss fast enough to win a gunfight. (raccoons, you'll probably live another day, though.)
-however-
In my experience, if you run a higher magnification that 10x, an FFP becomes unwieldy, while the SFP optic continues to offer a finer aiming point at any magnification. I can't recall seeing a FFP optic with more power than 12x, but I don't research optics as often as other things. I'm sure they exist. Anyway, the Wally World special I was running on my M14 ran up to 16x, and is a SFP optic. The subtensions for the reticle were calibrated at 10x, so around that magnification my dope was usually on (there was no detent, so it was impossible to get it exactly at 10x.) They both have their pros and cons, but IMO they each fill a certain niche better than the other.
Ultimately though, try before you buy if you can, nothing beats firsthand experience when it comes to equipment
Wondering what you fellas think of the New Versamax by Remington?
I haven't ever purchased a shotgun because I didn't want a pump gun, and after initially settling on a Saiga, decided against it due to reliability issues with cheap target loads. Then I bounced around for a while, Benelli, Mossberg, Remingtons other semi autos, and even eyeballed some Berettas. Didn't want to spend $2K on a M4 Super 90 to have to blow another 200$ on a decent mag tube, didn't like the tang safety on a pistol grip configuration for the Mossberg, reliability issues with underpowered loads on the older Remingtons, and on and on and on...
Well here is my opinion so do what you want with it. Benelli #1. Mossy #2. Versamax...#3.
While I don't own any of these at the moment when I was working as a waterfowl guide a used all and saw all in action. All covered in mud sand water and Ice.
The benelli is the gun to beat. Hands down. If I was trusting my life to an auto shotgun it would be the benelli. M4 M3 M2 i would use em all.
The mossy ran fine with no issues but the over all quality of the gun and parts wasn't as high and the tang safety sucks.
Remington auto guns went down more than any other brand versa max 1187 1100. Plus with the freedom groups recent history with remington guns and recalls I would touch any but an 870 police...
For hunting guns the berreta is right up with benelli. But due to limited choices on the defense side I didn't list it.
I don't have any experience with the Versamax, but I do have plenty of experience with my Stoeger M3500 and I love it. It's a budget gun made in Turkey and it has ran everything I've put through it without a single issue. I've abused it and let other people borrow it, and it performs flawlessly. My only gripe is that it has a VERY heavy trigger, but that can be fixed. My only regret is that I didn't spend the extra hundred bucks to get the camo version. I like the gun so much that I'm considering getting the M3020, which is the 20 gauge version.
I know that didn't answer your question, and I'm sorry. I just love the M3500 so much that I felt like that needed to be said.
Fair enough, thanks for the input guys! I was at my local rip-off... I mean Specialty Sports, and they had a (hardly) used Benelli M2 for about 1 Thousand. being a blowback, it will probably beat me up quite a bit more than one of the gas guns, but it's in the running for consideration.
GD, The tang safety is a big turnoff for me with Mossies as well, it's tough to reach with anything but a sporting stock, and even then I still have to sacrifice a solid grip on the controls to disengage it... and when seconds count...
FFP takes a little getting use to if you're use to the reticle staying the same size. However, after you've used a FFP for a while you'll never want to go back.
Don't discount the Benelli M1. Its built sturdier than the M2, and uses the same inertia system. I bought my first Benelli M1 Super 90 in 1994 and still have one I bought in 1996. Over the span of that time I've owned quite a few M1, M2 and M3. I don't care for the M3. The "pump" location is too far out for a non orangutang. The M2 is just a cheaper-to-manufacturer M1.
Fair enough, thanks for the input guys! I was at my local rip-off... I mean Specialty Sports, and they had a (hardly) used Benelli M2 for about 1 Thousand. being a blowback, it will probably beat me up quite a bit more than one of the gas guns, but it's in the running for consideration.
GD, The tang safety is a big turnoff for me with Mossies as well, it's tough to reach with anything but a sporting stock, and even then I still have to sacrifice a solid grip on the controls to disengage it... and when seconds count...
The M2 will have more recoil than an 1187 (for example) and more than a M1 due to the "lighter" (ie: cheaper) plastic is better craze. The new "ComforTech" stocks do work, however.
I've had four or five Remington 1187. Two worked great, the rest ... well.... not so great. They're strictly hunting guns, IMO. I wouldn't want a Remington gas gun if I was on a two-way range.
My M1 Super 90 is so fast I can unload the magazine before the first shell his the ground. EVERY M1S90 I've owned ran 100% with the lightest loads I could find.
I don't have enough experience with my M2 to comment.
I run this one it does just fine for trap single and doubles. It also burns through a mag as fast as you can pull the trigger. just make sure you get the latest version as the older ones didn't like trap loads.
I don't know... I want a SCAR17 but I'm seriously considering a KelTec RFB and using the rest of the funds to get some decent glass if/when I sell my SLR107
JJ has or had one. Not sure what he though of it. I just can't get behind keltek because of there limited product there for not enough T&E and field input into a design. Why not build a AR .308?
Last I remember JJ said he liked his RFB. That's one reason it stays in the my mind.
I just don't like the AR rifles that much. I would snag a SIG716 just to see if I like it but I didn't like the weight on it. A FAL is tempting but I think I'll pass. So far the only two rifles I know I would buy today is a SCAR17 and a 24" barrel RFB. I still haven't listed the 107 because I don't like selling firearms online and I'm lazi...
I love the power of the .308 but I haven't seen a semi auto one that says hey I'm the one pick me. The whole FAL would be great if there was some kinda of consistency. By this I mean all the nice ones aren't made any more so you pay lots of Money for one of those or you buy a parts kit rifle or a less than perfect new manufacture model.
The AR and scar are my two fav
The M1A if made like the original ones would be great but none of the new ones seem to have that quality and reliability.
This may be a bit off topic but I'm hoping for some good info from you dogs.
Earmuffs. I've always used non-powered muffs along with foam inserts for range shooting. Great for hearing protection but I'm at a huge disadvantage when someone tries to talk. So I've been doing some research into the electronic ear muff market.
Wow, there’s a lot of companies that want me to buy their products. The weak point of all of these muffs seems to be that you have to suffer db protection loss if you want to use electronic ear muffs with a rifle.
For instance a set of Howard Leight Impact Sport (22db noise reduction rating) for $48 vs Howard Leight Impact Pro (30bd NRR) for $68. It would seem a no-brainer to spend the extra $$$ to get the extra protection, but a major complaint is that the Impact Pro's are larger and interfere with a cheek weld associated with rifle shooting.
I would like to spend less than $300 for a quality set of electronic muffs, but they would have to be high on the quality chart for that kind of money.
I have purchased two sets of Howard Leights, the second ONLY because my dog chewed the first set up... I agree with GD completely.
I've shot them with everything I own, including one very noisy M14, the sound attenuation has always been below my pain level for impulse sound. With that said, I am certain I have a degree of hearing loss due to my time in the Army. Blackhawk helicopters aren't nearly as quiet as hollywood portrays them to be... you could always plug up though.
The audio enhancement is worth every cent alone. I was shooting in the woods a few years back, doing QR drills with my SLR-106F, and during a lull in the shooting, I heard crackling and crunching in the underbrush behind me. It sounded like it was right on top of me! I whirled around to see what had made the sound, and as it turns out, there were two younger bucks walking through the treeline... 250 meters away.
I have a deal pending on SCAR17. Fingers crossed and such...
If this doesn't scratch the itch then I probably wont bother with another semi auto .308 rifle. I was already starting to think of sinking these funds into a nice bolt rifle and scope.
One of our Deputies bought himself a KSG for his Birthday. NICE! He brought it in to show me. I couldn't believe how smooth it was being so new. ONLY drawback I saw (I ONLY Handled it for about 5 minutes) was that it will take a VERY high mount set of front and rear sights or some type of optical sight.
I was drooling over the SASR. Unfortunately, I don't have the disposable income yet to validate the purchase of another .308 :\
I heard that. I've been selling stuff that isn't getting used in order to come up with the money. I'm so close. Right now I'm just waiting for a friend of mine to scrape together enough cash to buy some of my stuff. Once that happens the Hunter is mine.
The only gripe I've heard about the GII's is that they're over gassed, just like all other DPMS rifles.
Yes. People are successfully addressing the issue with adjustable gas blocks. They function fine on their own, but some people like just enough gas for the rifle to function properly, and some people couldn't care less.
Once I buy the rifle I will still need to buy a scope, which will be the first non-open sight I have ever purchased. I don't know squat about scopes so I will be asking for advice on this when the time comes.
I'm still going back and forth over putting that M2 Super 90 on layaway. I haven't seen an M1 Super anything for sale anywhere, even online... so I might have to settle for the underbuilt version.
Benelli isn't even selling M1s anymore, it's off the catalog
There's a vendor at the PX who sells Paracord slings. Was thinking about grabbing one of the Collars she makes for my dog in Neon green and yellow. I personally prefer my Magpul MS3 though for sling work. I could see a paracord sling if I'm hoofing in the woods and might need to improv a shelter, but not for tactical shooting /:I
except now I looked at your link, Randy, lol... I am intrigued
Yep been trying to find one for a while now. I look at is as multi cal weapon for BOB. For shotguns I'd like a para cord sling but for rifles is single point or my tactical intervention sling for rifles.
Filled the Pilot with 3 rifles and 4 pistols, enought earmuffs and saftey glasses for our group of seven. Ammo, targets, cleaning kit where added and off we go to the gun club we just joined. Only to find the pistol/rifle range was closed due to a pre-planned skeet competition.
Just checked out a CZ 97bd...it's pretty big, but very manageable. Nice gun to me...but then I like CZs! They had like 10 Dan Wessons too...oh mama....they are nice!
Just checked out a CZ 97bd...it's pretty big, but very manageable. Nice gun to me...but then I like CZs! They had like 10 Dan Wessons too...oh mama....they are nice!
I've been seeing a few pop up online. The prices haven't been that bad either. I think I'd send a 97b to CZ's custom shop before I spent the coin a DW. But man they are nice!
This may be a bit off topic but I'm hoping for some good info from you dogs.
Earmuffs. I've always used non-powered muffs along with foam inserts for range shooting. Great for hearing protection but I'm at a huge disadvantage when someone tries to talk. So I've been doing some research into the electronic ear muff market.
Wow, there’s a lot of companies that want me to buy their products. The weak point of all of these muffs seems to be that you have to suffer db protection loss if you want to use electronic ear muffs with a rifle.
For instance a set of Howard Leight Impact Sport (22db noise reduction rating) for $48 vs Howard Leight Impact Pro (30bd NRR) for $68. It would seem a no-brainer to spend the extra $$$ to get the extra protection, but a major complaint is that the Impact Pro's are larger and interfere with a cheek weld associated with rifle shooting.
I would like to spend less than $300 for a quality set of electronic muffs, but they would have to be high on the quality chart for that kind of money.
I use the sports because they are the only electronic muffs that work with my cheek weld on my AR, I have been super happy with them and have nothing bad to say after a year.
Just checked out a CZ 97bd...it's pretty big, but very manageable. Nice gun to me...but then I like CZs! They had like 10 Dan Wessons too...oh mama....they are nice!
I've been seeing a few pop up online. The prices haven't been that bad either. I think I'd send a 97b to CZ's custom shop before I spent the coin a DW. But man they are nice!
I haven't seen a BD version for a bit...think it makes sense to have continuity in the handguns for me with the decocker. Already started to sort the knives "Ok, what can be sold?"
My Cabelas has a Heritage...man, that is drool worthy!
I was planning on going to the gun show this morning, but my wife suddenly has to show some houses so that leaves me with the kids. I'm can't help thinking that everything I'm looking for is being bought at this very moment.
Finally made it to the gun show and apparently the good stuff was gone in the first 30 minutes. I was tempted by a few things, but there wasn't anything there I couldn't live without. The only money I spent was for admission.
I will usually go on to gun shows late on the last day I'll scope out a few deals and then when its time for the dealers to pack up I'll go up to the tables with cash in hand. The last couple of shows have been worth the admission price.
I continued researching the Versamax after asking about it, and I know you guys didn't give it the highest praise, but other than a few anecdotes of poor performance, mostly related to the hammer which was recalled, and components and systems that Remington has since optimized, I couldn't find anything really really bad about it.
I think I'm going to give this one a whirl, and see for myself. I'll post pics and vids I'll probably pick it up around the 15th, I think.
I just discovered the 13/65s a few months ago and I knew I just had to have one. The round butts are a bit pricey but I found a deal on a square butt that I couldn't refuse.
Not a fan of carrying a revolver but it is hard to fault the S&W j and k frames. You will get used to it to a point GD but it is good to remain vigilant while carrying.
True. Only way I can carry it without printing is to appendix carry it. Hot humid weather makes wearing more than a t-shirt hot and if you have more than that on you stand out in a crowd. I do like having a full size fighting gun on me though. Thinking a g23 or g19 would be a better choice. Lucky for me my dad's military and LEO background meant I got raised sitting so I faced the doors, new the exits and thought of possibilities.
I pocket carry a lcp 380 in the summer inside the waistband a sar b6p 9mm in the spring and fall and a xd45 in the winter for both penetration and size reasons.
It looks to me like the Battlelink has a smidgen more storage, and it also has the capability to add a Garmin Backtrack at a later date (great for those long hikes through bear country )
I've looked over the current Magpul offerings and have decided against their products for my SLR. I'll post pics this afternoon of the rifle as its currently configured.
I carry a Glock 17 in a pancake holster with one of those long sleeved SPF 50 shirts (skin cancer) untucked all the time. The shirt covers so well that even my wife has to ask if I'm armed. Make sure you have a really good belt if you plan on carrying for any length of time.
I use a blackhawk riggers belt. Thick and very stable. I was looking at raven concealment stuff. I'm thinking I need some loose button up shirts for concealment purposes. One nice thing about appendix carry is I can get to the gun quickly with my left hand in a pinch.
So I held a ZEV works glock today!!!! Sweet!!! (Also $950+) made me think about a trigger upgrade. So what would you guys recommend for a trigger upgrade?
I'm looking at the Ghost Evo Elite connector and spring kit. It requires a little bit of filing, but if you screw it up Ghost will send you another one for free. I don't know why I haven't bought one yet. Maybe I'll go do that now.
I am getting ready to start CCW. My first carry gun (I think) will be my beloved Sig P225. Man I really like that thing.
Next up will be a Glock 17 I got off the widow of a cop I used to work with when I was working on weekends at my hometown department. He bought it new I think he said WAY back in the 80's.
I went to some glock forum and searched for serial numbers and when they were made and the above post is the line that corresponded, well sort of, with mine.
All the factory Glock parts function just fine and are totally reliable. The tungsten guide rod assembly is WAY heavier than the factory polymer one, which allows quicker follow up shots. Tungsten should be more resilient than polymer, but I'm not sure if that is even an issue.
There are several drop in trigger connectors for glocks. Most of them just change the feel of the trigger. Lone Wolf is a popular brand. If you decide to change any of the springs DO NOT get a firing pin spring lighter than 6 pounds unless you want to run the risk of light primer strikes.
I'm not sure, Randy. I know there's something about the pins in the frame that make it easy to differentiate a Gen 1 from a Gen 2. One has 2 pins and the other has 3.
I will probably just leave mine stock. So the plastic guide rod and flat spring should be OK I am gathering. I have a Haarts recoil reduction rod in my Sig 225 and it does make a difference. So SHOULD I get the tungsten rod? Oh and what pound spring should I get to go with it, if I do change it?
I'm not sure, Randy. I know there's something about the pins in the frame that make it easy to differentiate a Gen 1 from a Gen 2. One has 2 pins and the other has 3.
I really don't care that much what generation it is, just curious as to when it was made. It has of course NOT been shot that much. He carried a revolver most of his years prior to getting the glock.
He only had one spare mag for it and I have only shot 2 mag loads through it myself.
I am also going to put a set of Express sights on it. Yes, bead front and a shallow V rear. I had them on my Redhawk and loved them. And since I ripped off the rear sights one night at work I have to replace them anyway, so that is what I want and they will be steel this time not plastic.
Those wouldn't be for me. I have a real hard time getting the front sight centered in the rear square notch. That's why I like the shallow V so much. Well that and my bb guns and my 30-30 all had that type of sight.
Due to being a small hand guy is like a shorter distance between the face of the trigger to the back of the grip where the web of you hand wedges in. Noticed the zev trigger shortened it a little. I was talking to the smith at one of the local shops and he said he wouldn't replace the factory guide rod unless building a compotition gun. He said don't fix what ain't broke lol.
Randy. My dad has a gen2 g23 that is older than I am (atleast 21yr) he has countless rounds through it and he has actually carried it so much the slide has spots that are silver... He has the factory guide rod in it and it still runs like a machine.
I know it would all be good to go as it is Mike, but just a small tweak here or there makes it special. There are many like it, but this one is mine...
Well the best thing to control muzzle flip is porting. I had a Springfield Armory Ultra Compact V10 (10 holes in the barrel not counting the big one!) but I'll never have another.
It kept your front sight dirty all the time PLUS if you tried to shoot it from the retention position it would tear your side up like there was no tomorrow!
I've been carrying off and on since about '96. For three years as a commissioned Police officer and the remainder of the time as just a dispatcher for the county. Yeah I know, but I didn't "Broadcast" it and it was mostly to, during and from work.
I personally like a shoulder rig. I have a [censored] leather horizontal holster with double mag pouch for a 45 acp. I've carried three different guns in that and they all fit fine. Two were colts and one was the Springfield Armory.
So I held a ZEV works glock today!!!! Sweet!!! (Also $950+) made me think about a trigger upgrade. So what would you guys recommend for a trigger upgrade?
thanks! I've got probably 2 grand into that rifle by now, not counting ammunition.
ZEV and Salient could get me to buy a glock... Especially Salient's Tier 1... I'd... do something unspeakable for one of those pistols...
There is nothing wrong with being a gun nut, Randy! If I didn't have half a dozen really expensive hobbies already, all of my money would go into my firearms.
Yeah I've liked salient for a while but always kinda blow them off cause the price tag. As a machinist I see what some companies charge for simple machine work and it's crazy!!!!! I guess I can email them or call about a trigger.
We've all pretty much heard these before, but it's still nice to hear them again.
Shooting Advice Some words to the wise. Shooting Advice from various Concealed Carry Instructors. If you own a gun, you will appreciate this. If not, you should get one and learn how to use it:
A: Guns have only two enemies: rust and politicians.
B: Its always better to be judged by 12 than carried by 6.
C: Cops carry guns to protect themselves, not you.
D: Never let someone or something that threatens you get inside arms length.
E: Never say "I've got a gun." If you need to use deadly force, the first sound they hear should be the safety clicking off. (I prefer the sound of a slug being chambered when you [censored] a shotgun)
F: The average response time of a 911 call is 23 minutes, the response time of a .357 is 1400 feet per second.
G: The most important rule in a gunfight is: Always win - cheat if necessary.
H: Make your attacker advance through a wall of bullets . . . You may get killed with your own gun, but he'll have to beat you to death with it, cause it'll be empty. If you're in a gun fight: 1. If you're not shooting, you should be loading. 2. If you're not loading, you should be moving, 3. If you're not moving', you're dead.
J: In a life and death situation, do something . . . It may be wrong, but do something!
K: If you carry a gun, people call you paranoid. Nonsense! If you have a gun, what do you have to be paranoid about? (I call it being prepared)
L: You can say 'stop' or 'alto' or any other word, but a large bore muzzle pointed at someone's head is pretty much a universal language. AMEN!
M: You cannot save the planet, but you may be able to save yourself and your family.
If you believe in the 2nd Amendment, please forward.
Went to Wally World and sauntered over to the sporting goods section. I never should have gone. There in the showcase were TWO evil black .308 rifles! One was a bushmaster and the other a DPMS. The DPMS was a C note less than a grand. The Bushmaster was 277 more than that. Patty told me to buy it. I just couldn't.
Went to Wally World and sauntered over to the sporting goods section. I never should have gone. There in the showcase were TWO evil black .308 rifles! One was a bushmaster and the other a DPMS. The DPMS was a C note less than a grand. The Bushmaster was 277 more than that. Patty told me to buy it. I just couldn't.
May make for a nice stocking stuffer.
Since pretty much all my bases are covered and I'm not hard up to have anything else on hand I will likely start taking advantage of layaway options to help justify the expense of future purchases. When wallyworld offers this in a few months for the holidays maybe it can help ease you into nice knew evil entity.
Went to Wally World and sauntered over to the sporting goods section. I never should have gone. There in the showcase were TWO evil black .308 rifles! One was a bushmaster and the other a DPMS. The DPMS was a C note less than a grand. The Bushmaster was 277 more than that. Patty told me to buy it. I just couldn't.
Do you think Patty would be able to come out and spend a week or two with my wife? I'll pay for the first class airplane tickets.
Went to Wally World and sauntered over to the sporting goods section. I never should have gone. There in the showcase were TWO evil black .308 rifles! One was a bushmaster and the other a DPMS. The DPMS was a C note less than a grand. The Bushmaster was 277 more than that. Patty told me to buy it. I just couldn't.
Do you think Patty would be able to come out and spend a week or two with my wife? I'll pay for the first class airplane tickets.
Well it looks like you're gonna have a visitor for a week or so. She threw up her hands, smiled and said "I'm gone"!
Sooooo my lower I have is black and war sports foliage green finish. So I'm thinking about getting my upper and lower cerakoted FG. What do you guys think. Worth it?
I think they can, over anodizing I don't think it will make a huge difference. If it were Parkerized steel, I would recommend having it bead blasted first. Cerakote adheres better to bare metal. If there is a layer of anything in between, that's just another layer of potential failure if it loses adhesion for some reason. Check with the applicator, they're trained up on the best practices and can give you a better answer.
Yeah $130. $55 for the upper and $75 for the rail. I'm trying to decide if it's worth it. I mean it would void the warranty on the rail I assume... But it would be sweet to have it match the lower!
it's one bada$$ rifle... talked myself down no telling how many times but i am glad i made the leap. thanks goes to Architect and the other dogs for encouraging it. this pretty much sums up what i want in a rifle.
thats my FNH FNP45. i didn't realize it until after i took that picture but those two make for a pretty nice pairing. i had sort or tucked away the FNP and considered it as more of a range pistol but im starting to rethink its roll a bit.
The FNP has been great. It's a much better shooter than I am. It I a pleasure to shoot and I was really surprised at how well I did with it. My FiveSeven was a laser and I was actually right in there with the FNP.
I hadn't given much thought to the FNP as a "go to" because I just never had much interest in .45 acp. It's also a fairly large pistol and not one you'd really want to carry concealed unless you just had to. But it really has been a reliable firearm so far. Seeing it next to the SCAR made me realize I should consider taking steps to have it higher on the list of SHTF options than it has been. .45 acp will most likely never be my primary pistol caliber but I can totally see having it next to .308 for a "heavy hitter" combo.
I still think a x39 and 9mm combo will be what I end up with as the main shooters but I think I will go ahead invest a little more into the SCAR17 and FNP45 pairing for now.
Nope... The 107 traded. But I already had a 101 which is currently my primary rifle.
I picked up the 107 to have a lighter AK rifle with a folding stock. I just figured it might come in handy. I still preffered my 101 so it won't be missed.
I realized the M1A and 107 together didn't equal up to SCAR when it came to the function and features I wanted. They did equal up to a SCAR far as my investment in them so I cashed out and got the SCAR.
She had sworn off revolvers for several years after I let her fire off a few full house loads out of my 29. It's nice to have her back shooting revolvers.
it's one bada$$ rifle... talked myself down no telling how many times but i am glad i made the leap. thanks goes to Architect and the other dogs for encouraging it. this pretty much sums up what i want in a rifle.
Congrats. Outside of being EXCEEDINGLY loud (due to the PWS brake) I think the Scar-17 is about the best rifle available.
...the concensus seems to be that, for hard use, druacote is not in close to the same class as cerakote. We have a full cerakote booth and oven at work and so far have been very very impressed with it. I soot air cured cerakote at home and have found it to be great and durable as well.
spidy... NICE M65 !!!!!! what "dash" number is it ?
Congrats. Outside of being EXCEEDINGLY loud (due to the PWS brake) I think the Scar-17 is about the best rifle available.
I have being reading about it. I learned a lesson about the concussive effects of a muzzle break while shooting my scout from a mdf shooting house once. I'm guessing the SCAR is worst than that so I'm keeping in mind I may have to find a different break. But I've read the PWS does s good job so I'm hoping it will be okay.
...the concensus seems to be that, for hard use, druacote is not in close to the same class as cerakote. We have a full cerakote booth and oven at work and so far have been very very impressed with it. I soot air cured cerakote at home and have found it to be great and durable as well.
spidy... NICE M65 !!!!!! what "dash" number is it ?
If I understand correctly, Duracoat is more like a tough spray paint (it cures kind of like an epoxy), a few notches above automotive paint. Cerakote is super tough, but it has to be heat cured. It's possible if you have a big enough oven to do it at home on a cookie sheet with a firearm. I plan on repainting my truck (portions of it, anyway) in Duracoat and finishing it with the Duraclear. I figure then I'd have to worry about the paint less while I'm off roading.
The air cured cerakote works as well, that is what i am using at home. You need a dest free environment to shoot it (a really low pressure gun - around 5psi) and somewhere that the finished items are safe to hang for around a week undisturbed to properly go off. I have done some stocks and other bits and pieces with the air cure and they are all holding up just fine.
Ok so I'm not good at internet searches so I'm looking for a holster for my ruger single six hunter... 7.5 in barrel in a western style holster or heck a quality nylon would be nice... Most I can find are for the full size black hawk which is a bit larger
In light of recent events, the beheading in Moore Oklahoma and the shooting of a Police officer in Ferguson Missouri and a POSSIBLE shooting of a second one, I figured I needed to start packing at work again.
Soooo I was a good boy or a bad boy (depending on your Sheeple index).
FOR ME, it is the best feeling handgun I own and points exactly where I want it to naturally and is the only handgun I have that does this. It is virtually unnoticed on my belt (weight wise) and has the best feeling paddle holster I have ever carried. I figure I will in time get a leather pancake style holster for it, only because I prefer leather.
It came with the aforementioned paddle holster and a double mag pouch that has "Rails" to hold you gun light or anything else that you can mount on a picatinny rail. The gun comes with a single position picatinny rail as well.
I of course, as indicated got the 45 and it is thinner, smaller overall, than my single stack Sig P225. The gun comes with two magazines, a flush fit 5 rounder and an extended 7 round with an installed extended "Filler" piece that slips over the magazine. It also comes with another backstrap and second extended magazine "Cover" along with the dual mag pouch.
Through the 31st of October you (Via mail in rebate or on the Springfield website) get THREE additional magazines and another mag pouch.
I am, so far, happy. I, based upon other folks satisfaction be happy with my purchase. PLUS getting an LE discount I think it was a really good buy, (at least I hope so). So if he made a mistake on the price, it's a mistake HE will have to eat, not me.
I know this is old hat for most of you Dogs, but Man, at least so far I think it's a great little gun. Just what I was looking for!
We'll see how things go after I put a couple three hundred rounds of full ball through it. UNLESS I change my mind I will be carrying Hornady Critical Duty Law Enforcement ammo or something from Cor-Bon.
Randy that's a sweet gun! My mom has the xds9 I agree is a awesome gun for the money and I think you made an excellent investment. Only one thing to think about. My moms will not reliably function with hornady critical defence or critical duty. If you look there is two polished places that serve as a feed ramp. And of course this means it's and intrupted surface. The sharp edge by the poly tip of the round tends to catch there and jam the slide to the rear. Only way to fix it is to lock the slide back and reach in and push the round back in the mag and then remove the mag and offending round. This issues is do to the geometry of the round and that thin copper lip by the poly tip. As soon as we got her shooting traditional hollow points it stopped malfunctioning.
Now I believe this may not be an issue with your and here is why. The 9mm round has a much shallower come shape to it and there for less surface geometry to ride up the feed ramp.
The 45 is a more spherical shaped round with more surface to contact the feed ramp. BUT PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE THUROUGHLY TEST YOUR GUN WITH THESE ROUNDS BEFORE CARRYING.
Awesome score Randy! I traded my old XD in because it was too big for my nubby fingers, then they came out with the XDm, and I knew I would fall in love once I picked one up and handled it... someday, I will own another one
As GD said, test it with whatever ammunition you intend to fire through it. My benchmark for reliability is 500 rounds without a stoppage due to ammunition. So far my Kimber is holding that standard. the only misfeeds are due to one of my Chip McKormick 10 rounders. If it proves it can't handle the task and starts having issues, then I won't carry it as a defensive firearm. If it malfunctions one time in 500, will that one time in 500 be when I need it the most?
I've heard really good things about the XD series of pistols. We've got at least two deputies that carry them, and MAYBE one more too. They all really like them and one of our reserve deputies carries one in 40cal as well.
For 4 bills and a half, I ain't complaining. 1 shy of half a C note out the door. This guy is famous for giving military and LE discounts, Maybe I got both!
Yeah I told her that it's a wonder her camera didn't fail. How do they expect to sell any guns with an old fat white guy doing the advertising? Now if it was Arianny Celeste.....
OK dogs, due to acquisition of a new boom stick, I find myself in need of some 45acp ammo. Ball would be fine. I just need some break in and familiarization stuff. Carry Ammo I should have covered.
Since a lot of Y'all buy your ammo on line what would be a good source for a couple hundred rounds at a time say. Heck, would walmart even be a good inexpensive source?
Try here Randy, when they have it in stock, they usually have good deals. And they carry Wolf Gold in bulk, which is Wolf's Brass loading. It has a hard primer, but your XD ought to be able to digest it without issue.
Well like I said, so far, I really like it. It feels good in my hand and the sights line up exactly on target for me when I bring it in line. It is a dream to carry and I actually forgot about having it on!
We worked (did some sealing of cracks) on our church parking lot tonight and one of the deacons said he wishes I would wear it to church on Sundays and the pastor said he didn't have a problem with it. In Missouri the only thing necessary for someone to carry a handgun in church is for the pastor to OK it. Sooooo, I guess I'm good to go!
If the SuperChurch here in the springs had had some carrying members, that shooting wouldn't have been as bad, I suspect.. can't remember the name of the church off the top of my head, and I've lived here my entire life.
Most folks around here are pretty level headed when it comes to protecting what is yours. AND also looking out for those poor misguided souls that haven't got a clue. I am glad I live in the "Bible belt" (we live just 50 miles from the General Baptist World headquarters).
I just picked up the Hogue Overmolded handgaurds for my SLR-106F. Swapped them for the aluminum rail I had on it before, and I swear it shaved about a lb off of the front end. I LOVE THESE RAILS! They're not solid enough for me to want to mount an optic, but with the Parabellum Armament rail, I don't have a need for the top rail on the Hogues, so that handgaurd went into the extra crap box.
I'm still waiting on the new pistol grip to arrive from Israel, and the M4 Stock tube to arrive from Russia (it has until the 9th to be here in 30 days...), then I'll pick up my stock (still need one more research session, though. I want to feel each stock I had designs on in hand before I make my final decision), and I will FINALLY be at the point where the only things left to do require a competent gunsmith to finish.
I found this site (NZD Performance) that sells accessories, OK, Parts for guns. I think I might pimp my XDS a little. First off I want to get a couple grip extenders so my pinky will have some place to go when I am using the 5 round magazines. AND I also want to get a new rear slide cover plate. I'm thinking about getting the smiley face or maybe the Zombie Outbreak Response Team logo on it. Oh and I also need to get another mag holder. The leather one I have has a weak clip on it and the pouch comes off the belt when I grab the magazine. NOT a good thing!
Was looking through my stash of "Duty" ammo. Gee willikers Wally did I do good or what. I found ANOTHER 400 rounds of 22 rimfire, 200 rounds of 40cal, 100 rounds of 32acp and 150 of 380. Oh and did I mention I found another 225 rounds of 45acp. Yup, Cor-bon, Federal and Remington. Oh and about a half box of Winchester.
Yeah, another big score. I've got my ammo stored in ammo boxes.
Just got a CZ 75 BD, it's really the big brother to my CZ PCR Compact. Just put 150 rounds through it and wow! Accurate and light recoil! What a difference a longer barrel and sight radius make.
Not as yet. Interviewing with a couple and an insurance company. I can manage a bit longer not working- also may do some temp work as a social worker. Wifey says the decrease in stress has me much more relaxed.
BTW, this CZ came with a dang nice trigger out of the box. I was looking for an SP-01, but had no luck and the price on the BD was too good to pass up.
1. Got a new carry gun. 2. Got to select the ammo I am going to carry full time, Only have 22 rounds of Hydra Shock. 3. Now gotta look at holsters. The Generic old Strong leather pancake is OK, just well the new gun deserves something better.
1. Got a new carry gun. 2. Got to select the ammo I am going to carry full time, Only have 22 rounds of Hydra Shock. 3. Now gotta look at holsters. The Generic old Strong leather pancake is OK, just well the new gun deserves something better.
It's always something.
hah! Sounds familiar- I was on fleabay looking at holsters and think I'm going to pick up VZ grips too.
Just got a CZ 75 BD, it's really the big brother to my CZ PCR Compact. Just put 150 rounds through it and wow! Accurate and light recoil! What a difference a longer barrel and sight radius make.
Very Nice, I have its polymer Turkish cousin and love it.
Anybody have any suggestions for super slim 1911 Grips that will look good on a Kimber Desert Warrior? I was thinking something in FDE, since I always thought the tan grips on an FDE pistol looked kinda silly. I can't quite get my tiny nubs around the stock golfball grips, and the resultant bad trigger finger placement is throwing my shot groups significantly.
I just placed an order with Bud's for a DPMS GII Hunter.
I actually broke into a sweat when I let the mouse hover over the "confirm order" button too long. Does anyone else do that when they're about to make a large cash purchase?
I prefer to keep the little sweats to when the credit card bill comes in, and the big sweats, chills, and the "but, but, but" till my wife sees the credit card bill.
I just placed an order with Bud's for a DPMS GII Hunter.
I actually broke into a sweat when I let the mouse hover over the "confirm order" button too long. Does anyone else do that when they're about to make a large cash purchase?
YUP, been there done that, more than once. It's always the same until it's done. Oh and not just for cash purchases.
I am sure that many of you fans of things that go boom already know, But I found it interesting that the XDs (at least) was made in Croatia. AND the paddle holster and I am sure the double mag pouch was made in Israel. For some reason I kind of like that.
Oh and I watched a video of a guy that "Colored" in the roll markings on his XD with white paint. Man did it look pretty. He just thinned down some GOOD craft paint and dabbed it on with a needle so it would run down into all the nooks and crannies, let it dry for an hour and wiped off the excess with a Hoppe's No. 9 saturated cloth.
I have done a few lowers like that and it does come out pretty cool I am waiting to duracoat my current lower then color fill it with contrasting camo colors.
GOOD NEWS. Springfield Armory notified me by email that my Promotional mags and carrier have been shipped! I HOPE it's two 7 rounders and one five along with the mag pouch, but I'll take what ever they send. I mean it's free!
The rifle I ordered just shipped and is scheduled to be delivered this Friday. I'll be working all weekend so I won't be able to pick it up until the following Tuesday. I was hoping it would be delivered this Thursday but it looks like I'll have to wait a few more days.
Now I need to decide on the scope that will go on it.
Right after 9/11 I was tasked with securing a large vital facility. On the first 12 hour shift I decided I was going to use a nice single point. Most was walking stairs and catwalks.
By the end of the day I was tired and it felt like the boys had gone a full round with Tyson.
I use the Magpul MS3 sling on my tactical rifles. I love being able to switch back and forth between single and two point rapidly. I sewed a single point sling into something similiar a while back.. someone from Magpul must have seen my idea...
I just couldn't warm up to the Magpul. I wanted to like it but I couldn't. I can put a simple clip on a VTAC to do the same or clip the front to the ASAP plate.
One of my friends stopped by the office and brought in a load of slings that he uses and I am pretty sure I made the right choice. The VTAC then VCAS for my needs.
I will be waiting at the mailbox like a kid at Christmas for the rest of the week until everything gets in.
Got the upper in. I did have to switch out bolt carriers. I forgot this was the old AWB Colt receiver so I just traded carriers out from the H-Bar Upper and kept the BCM Bolt.
I have a few things still coming in but I'm keeping this one simple.
If I was going aimpoint Bang for the buck I would go for the patrol optic though. About $426.
So its a really hard to choose. Aimpoints are easier to use because they don't have a tube and seeing the 65moa ring is cake with both eyes open and no tube.
Aimpoint has crazy long battery life though and are generally tougher units.
Eotechs you just have to keep spare batteries and check them every few months. No a big deal for me since the use 2 AA batteries.
There isn't enough on the Aimpoint side to make me part with that much money to switch from what I already have.
See I really like the AA and the savings as well but then I hear about how much better the aimpoint is overall and don't even get me started on the Trijicons lol
I can get the Eotech for 350, the patrol for 375, and the Trijicon reflex for 377 for the 24mm and 450 for the 42mm . So money wise the Eotech is the best deal but not by much.
I just laid away a neat little gun at the local pawn shop. It's a Norinco copy of the Browning ATD .22 semi-auto. I've lusted after the Browning for years, but I just can't pay $700 or so for a .22 lr.
I picked up the Norinco for $150. I didn't have the cash to get it, so I took out what I had in my wallet and laid it away til I can get back to pick it up. I can't wait to give it a whirl.
I have one of those Brownings. It belonged to my Dad and I've had it since he passed in '92. I can remember sometime in the late '80s him saying "I paid $30 for it 30 years ago." Many a ground squirrel fell victim to that wonderful little rifle.
Well, I think I've decided to go with the Vortex Viper HS 2.5-10x44mm for my DPMS GII Hunter. I considered a 50mm objective but decided it was overkill for my needs. I think 44mm is borderline overkill. Now all that is left is to decide what mount/rings are needed.
Greaser, I just picked up my GII and my initial impressions are favorable. Really neat design. The action is very stiff, even for a new AR. I'm hopeful it will loosen up after some range time. The trigger isn't too bad for a factory single stage. Also, my calibrated eyeball says a Magpul BAD Lever will not work on this rifle. The bolt release doesn't quite line up. I didn't actually try the BAD lever so I could be wrong. Oh, I just decided I don't like ambidextrous AR safties.
That's it for now. Any questions float 'em my way.
I will say having one of these in the Recon configuration would have me truly excited. But, as always, there are some things I would want to change to free up some weight.
Very nice set Spidey I can't wait to hear your shooting impressions, the recon will be my next firearm after I pay off my new trap gun. I will definitely let you guys know how the 1-4 experiment goes.
Oh and yeah it seems like there is something that always needs changed isn't there.
Not a fan of single stacks but of course I do own one, a ruger lcp for shorts and a t shirt weather its better than nothing.
I have an LCP. It's a love hate relationship. That's why I want the Glock 9 single stack. I want real sights and a better trigger. I use it for shorts weather and a BUG at work.
Lol yeah the no sights rubbed me wrong so I painted them up and they are at least there now, the trigger never bothered me but I got mine used and I think they had the trigger worked on because I have tried my mothers lc9 and hers is much worse.
MB it is a 12 gauge shot gun with a copied remington 1100 action hidden in an AR style operating system. I am loving it so far with over 500 rounds through it, it seems to be holding up perfectly.
Three lowers, no uppers to put on them. Thinking of an 18" stainless 1:8 twist free floated quad rail for coyotes ground hogs, and the ability to run bigger bullets for hogs or deer if it came to that...and if deer laws changed...), a 300 BLK to one day run supressed, and either a 16" stainless wylde for fun, or a 6.8 SPC II for deer (although not sure I really NEED another hunting round...). Thought?
As for handguns, looking at the Sig P980 or XdSC 9mm. Would also love to add in an SP2022 someday to the line up. That and a snub nosed 38 should make the collection complete... ish... Still craving a full sized 1911...
I will vouch for BCM. I built all my lowers and happened to find a BCM upper cheaper than I could build it. So I went that route. Very happy with the fit finish and quality.
PSA has a bad rep for customer service and slow ship times. For a plinker or hunting upper I wouldn't shy from a PSA.
Sheer quality, reliability and resale BCM all day long.
Yep if you can find what you want cheaper than you can build then go for it. I'm kinda picky so for my AR I went with a war sport Colette lower and then decided to build from there.
I am partial to BCM. They are one of the best built AR's on the market right now.
The upper I bought from them was the same as filthy 14. Thats the AR Pat Rodgers torture tested by not cleaning it and I They shot around 40,000 rds with one cleaning after about 26,000 rounds. Just lube.
Pats a really good guy and I trust him.
The upper is the heart of an AR. That's where the magic happens. While I prefer a high quality lower the truth is there are only 3 or 4 mass manufacturers. Mnay different names are engraved on the same lowers. With a little research you can find who makes what. Mil Spec is Mil Spec.
I just collected a Lee "Factory Crimp" die for my .375H&H loading. I hope it will allow me to get a workable hold on those big Woodleigh projectiles that I can't seem to manage with a standard RCBS seat die. Never been a fan of the crimp die but I was getting a bit frustrated with the rest. I will load a few up on the weekend and see how it goes.
Any thoughts on AR pistols? Thinking 300 BLK or 7.62 x 39 for deer hunting out to 100 yards.
I think they both would loose to much energy at that range but I know for a fact (and no I don't work for Wilson) that the 7.62x40WT was designed to carry more energy out of short barrel weapons than the 300 black out and the 7.62x39.
So does a domed or domed with bearings roller cam pin on a AR BCG really offer any advantages?
I am sure it soothes it out a bit but it really seams to be a gimmick that will add more cleaning maint. and another hard to find part to replace if you do have issues. Of course I am running a propriety piston driven upper so I guess I shouldn't talk about hard to find parts. LOL
lol well it's more intricate parts but you can always swap back. Idk saw it on Rainier Arms Facebook page and was just wondering. What piston system are you running?
Andy, I have always wanted a 375 H&H. I have no idea why but I want one in a bad way. I have no practical use for it but that is a sweet round with some history behind it.
The biggest animal I hunt is Elk and I do that with a bow.
lol well it's more intricate parts but you can always swap back. Idk saw it on Rainier Arms Facebook page and was just wondering. What piston system are you running?
I run the Adams Arms mid length set up and have been more than happy. The only issue i have with it is it did not cycle steel ammo reliably. Which I hear will clear up after break in but being a reloader I hate using steel as it ends up costing me more because of the lack of reloadable brass.
I have a 300 H&H. Not as big, but more than enough for anything in NA, SA, Australia, Europe, Antarctica, Asia and most of Africa. It'll put a hurt on ya.
I had that same love affair with the 45-70: it won't kill things deader than a 30-06 or anything else I have, but I couldn't rest until I had one or two.
Starting to feel that way about the 300 BLK now...
I love my 45/70. My old Guide Gun is probably my favorite rifle. I don't use it often but I absolutely love the way that thing handles and feels. The 405 grain projectile is kind of nifty as well
Now that I have a 45-70, I find that it DOES kill things deader than anthying else except maybe the 300 H&H...
I guess the moral is: MB, you NEED to get a 375 pronto! Clearly there is a reason you are being prompted to get one. Perhaps an angry rhinoceros is only days away from attacking your home!
LOL, I had the most impressive looking drop I have ever seen on a wild hog that was charging me. I put a 405 grainer in his left ear and dropped him at about 10 feet as he turned off. That thing went down with authority then slid several feet.
I'm sure some of it had to do with how he was turning when I hit him but he went airborne and slid. I was just glad there was a witness or no one would have believed me.
My Guide Gun usually takes at least one or two deer each season now. It's on regular rotation with the two 25-06s, the bolt 30-06, and the Marlin 30-30 XLR. Makes me think I could probably sell off the rest if the rifles... Nah, that's a silly thought...
I won't sell any of mine if there is any other option. I sold a bunch to get a down payment for my first house. I still regret selling several of those.
Yeah, not a fan of selling guns. Been a couple of handguns I had no issue selling off, but rifles seem different. Knives I can more easily part with for some reason.
Someday I'd love to hunt other big game besides whitetail. A few more years and hogs will be in the area. Elk may be in before I can no longer hunt. Black bear are more numerous, but still fairly rare for this area....
Don't think of the 300 BLK as a difft round, think of it as a Recycling gun. You can reuse 223 brass that's split the necks and 308 bullets you have lying around.
LOL, That's why I bow hunt here. Plus we have 1.6 million acres of public land that starts right at the city limits. You can get in the back country during bow season and not see anyone depending on where you go.
ALMOST pulled the trigger on a 10.5" 300 BLK pistol upper for about 250 shipped. figured I'd better have a pistol lower on hand first though, lest the gov accuse me of intent to build an unregistered SBR. Dang it was a good deal though!
I need about 2-3k to get all my uppers and lowers in a row. Anyone wanna contribute to the "DTDBGB Campaign," or the "DogTired Dream Black Guns Bonanza Campaign?"
Something says my wife won't appreciate my spending all that on more "toys."
For uppers, I "need" an 18" stainless 1:8 wylde, a 16" 300BLK, a 6.8 SPC, a 16" stainless 1:9 wylde, and a 10.5" 300 BLK. Then I need a pistol lower and a Sig arm brace.
I suppose I'll also "need" nickel boron BCGs for everything....
Of course, then I'll ALSO "need" optics for everything...
The 458 SOCOM can wait a year
I'd like to get all this stuff before the next "incident" sends prices through the roof again. We're looking at dang good prices on all this stuff right now.
Don't think of the 300 BLK as a difft round, think of it as a Recycling gun. You can reuse 223 brass that's split the necks and 308 bullets you have lying around.
ALMOST pulled the trigger on a 10.5" 300 BLK pistol upper for about 250 shipped. figured I'd better have a pistol lower on hand first though, lest the gov accuse me of intent to build an unregistered SBR. Dang it was a good deal though!
Not much out here that "needs" the .375, Asiatic Buffalo, Bantang and Scrub Bulls are about it. I have hunted buff with my .300Win but it was not the most comfortable feeling doing so. The .375 is also a great Sambar rifle but the .300 works well too. There is something truly SPECTACULAR about busting hogs with the .375 !!!!!!!! That said earlier in the year I was hunting bunnies with it as well (I work on the theory if I am confident snap shooting rabbits as I was through the bush I should be able to hit a Cape Buffalo OK).
DT if you have an unbuilt lower just put a pistol buffer and you are GTG. It doesn't have to be marked as a pistol. You just can't have a stock on it or should it have ever had a stock on it.
Seems like AR pistols are a massive gray area... So you can convert a rifle lower to a pistol legal configuration? Or pistol to legal rifle? They don't start life as just one and stay just one? And really who checks every serial number in your safe to keep folks legit? Can you own a pistol upper before you own a pistol lower? What separates a SBR upper from a pistol upper?
There really is not a gray area. ATF has put out several documents concerning AR lowers. When I checked last year, the following was legal to do. I don't know if anything has changed since then. Check their website to be sure.
If you start with a lower that has never been made into a firearm, you can make it into either a rifle or a pistol. If you make a rifle, it has to stay a rifle. You cannot convert it into a pistol in the future. If you first make it into a pistol, you can convert it back and forth to a rifle and back into a pistol as many times as you want. According to the ATF, the lower does not have to be marked "pistol" in order to be in the pistol mode. State laws may add some other regulations. Such as, California has many regulations about AR rifles that are not Federal regulations.
I found that it is against federal law to have a pistol upper in your possession unless you also have a pistol lower. If you do not own any stocked lowers or AR rifles, then you can possess just the pistol upper. Having a pistol upper and lowers with stocks on them means you are in possession of an SBR. SBR stands for short barreled rifle. You are in violation of federal law if you possess a SBR without a tax stamp. There is no difference between a SBR upper and a pistol upper. If the barrel length is under 16", then the upper is either a SBR or pistol upper. If it is on a lower that has a stock, then you have a SBR. If it on a lower that has the pistol buffer tube, then you have a pistol. You can have a pistol upper and stocked lowers in your possession as long as you have a lower with a pistol buffer tube also.
Also, concerning serial numbers. The serial number on a stripped lower does not indicate if it is a pistol or a rifle. When you buy it from a FFL, the ATF form 4473 that you fill out will list the lower as "other" because it is not a rifle or a pistol but is a receiver.
Ray pretty much nailed it. The only thing I have heard differently is that once you convert a pistol to a rifle it is always a rifle and if you have a barrel shorter than 16 inches overall it is now an SBR.
But an unfinished lower is neither a rifle or a pistol. I wouldn't own an upper than is shorter than rifle length without a pistol lower. That's a recipe for disaster.
When you purchase a lower from an FFL you can have them mark it as a pistol if you choose.
I wished I had known that when I bought my lower. I paid way too much to have a pistol marked lower. I could have saved about 100 bucks. On the lower.
Heck right now they have bushy lowers for under 50 bucks. If my go to FFL hadn't gone under I would buy a couple more.
I found documentation on the ATF website that said that if the lower was built originally as a pistol, it can be changed back and forth from pistol to rifle and back again. I am confused by what you said about having the FFL mark the lower as a pistol if you choose. Did you mean engraving "pistol" on the lower or checking off the pistol box on the ATF form 4473?
I am talking about the form 4473. Some people are more comfortable by having that done but I'm not sure it makes a difference.
Do you have a link or PDF from the ATF document? Everything I have ever seen says once its a rifle its always a rifle. They ahd some problems with pistols sold with longer barrels and stocks claiming that once the stock was put on it was now a rifle and if it was coverts back to a pistol it was now considered an SBR.
It would be great if I was wrong. The make or used to some great conversion carbine kits for 1911's and Glocks.
I finally have my carbine put together. I am pretty happy with it so far and the only thing I have done is moved the flashlight forward a bit.
I looked at the overall cost and with everything on it I came in way under what it would have normally cost me to outfit it. Granted it was around a 4 year process but it was worth it.
Hey I just ordered that same mount and it's at my folks waiting for me to get it tomorrow along with some pmags. AAC blackout flashider, magpul AFG, vltor MUR, and some other odds and ends.
MB how do you like the mount and what light are you running?
The light is a Terra Lux TT-4. I got it for a song a while back. Dual switches and 520 lumen. It needed a place on a rifle.
I like the mount. The TT has way to many cool looking bands and bumps. I have probably reset the light 8-10 times before It sat level with the barrel and far enough forward for me.
I like the way it sets. It keeps the light forward of the barrel and sight and far enough offset to no interfere with the Holo sight.
It's a keeper. I was planning on getting the single set Sure fire G2 320 lumen but I just had the TT-4 as a spare in my work bag. So I save some money and its a perfect light for the setup.
My biggest concern is hitting a mirror or shiny surface and blinding myself for a bit during a search. That sucker is bright.
I looked but I didn't see any single or dual mode light of the right DIA. And on a weapon light I don't want to have to cycle through more than two light modes. I don't want to accidentally light myself up or leave it on to long.
I just got put off of surefire in the sandbox when my original G2 blew its bulb about 15 min into a mission I am sure the new LED ones are better but it kind of POed me off and I said nope done with em. ( I saw quite a few of them blow)
Lazi, Yepper! I have a gunsmith here in town who is going to give my original front sight tower special treatment (get rid of the bulgarian thread, exposing the barrel for threading in an AR thread pitch, and remove MOST of the tower, leaving the plunger for a locking point for the new muzzle device.), and who will install the CR type gas block. I picked up an AR sight post adapter from ACE ltd., and the SRVV tube was the holy grail of accessories for that particular rifle, and was by far the hardest thing for me to find. I'm just waiting for the Ares Armor Effin'A comp to arrive, and I'll be dropping the rifle off at the smithy. I have to order the VLTOR Imod come payday, and I can FINALLY stop sinking money except for ammunition into this rifle
I was wanting to do the front sight gas block on my 101 but didnt know just how to go about it. One of the reasons I didn't mind letting my 107 go is that I would actually prefer to have a CR instead. I don't know if I would ever stamp and chop one but it would be nice to have that as an option.
If a SCAR and a AK47 had a baby it would look like that.
A couple years ago when I was googling to find the perfect fighting rifle I stopped looking when I found the Galil Ace. But back then there was no indication they would ever be available in the US and the price was insane.
I'm pretty sure I will get one. I would like a last round bolt hold open option but other than that its just too perfect a rifle for me.
I would take any of those 3 DT in this order melanite, stainless, then chrome. Reason being I run piston guns so I would much rather have the accuracy of the melanite or stainless over the ultimate corrosion resistance of the chrome lined.
If a SCAR and a AK47 had a baby it would look like that.
A couple years ago when I was googling to find the perfect fighting rifle I stopped looking when I found the Galil Ace. But back then there was no indication they would ever be available in the US and the price was insane.
I'm pretty sure I will get one. I would like a last round bolt hold open option but other than that its just too perfect a rifle for me.
Sorry I got distracted by the lovely lady shooting it. The biggest issue with keltek is they come out with a sick product then don't produce it or they produce it in such small quantities that it is impossible to find or buy for less than 3 times srp. It does look like a great system and I agree with GD being able to at least shoot LR out of it would be nice.
Yeah, I'm kinda weird, but what the heck. I would be the only one who would have a 4 inch 45acp Springfield XDS with that on it. (Maybe we could start a club}. they DO make them for glocks too Ya know.
I was able to get to the range and break in my new rifle.
Really nice day at the range.
I got the irons and holo sight dialed in on the new rifle. I have to say I welcomed myself into more modern times with this rifle and it was a huge improvement.
The mid-length gas system and compensator with a heavy tungsten buffer didn't make a hoot of difference in supported shooting.
The rifle is reasonably accurate for what it is. I have no doubt it is at least MOA with decent ammo.
This thing frigging rocks shooting on the move. The setup is incredibly smooth and stays on target shooting and moving. I was flat surprised how well it soaks up the recoil and virtually no muzzle rise during rapid fire. I would have bet that I wouldn't have notice much of any difference and I would have been wrong.
I let one of my friends try it and he was surprised at the difference as well.
It may not be everyone's first choice but I can't believe i haven't done this setup before. It's definitely a keeper.
The only downside is the compensator throws a boatload of dust during prone shooting. I can live with that.
I was really surprised how well the whole thing came together. I really wasn't expecting it to make the difference that it did. I was slightly concerned that with a lighter carrier that it might short stroke. I didn't have a single hiccup.
That rifle is well on its way to being a favorite. I ran it through the paces and it did not disappoint.
I want a 308 AR. One day I will have to start a build on one. I am having to contain myself on upgrades and new gun projects. They have some great sales going on and there is plenty of stuff I want.
I just need to pick a project to upgrade and finish it.
I'm fairly torn if I want to upgrade some stuff on an AR pistol or change out an upper and a go to a Free float handguard on an old H-Bar that is freakishly accurate but has the old A2 STYLE UPPER.
Dang. I hate when you watch something on a package tracking page only to see undeliverable and it's going back to the company... It was on my road dang it!!! So close. Guess I need to call midway tomorrow...
I received something from Midway USA yesterday. The item was handled by UPS and transferred to my local post office, which delivered the item to my mailbox. It had a UPS tracking number. Every time I have selected standard shipping with Midway USA that is the way they ship it. They call the service UPS Mail Innovations and it takes twice as long as regular UPS or the US Mail.
^^^ Ain't that the truth. I don't know why USPS gets hammered on so much. For me it's waaaay faster than USPS. I've had two recent UPS packages that got to within 10 minutes of me, then shipped off to a different state!
I called midway this morning and they sent another shim kit. It's just a kit to time a flashider. Got all my magpul rail covers for the rifle today and a BAD lever. Just need the shim kit. Then I have enough to complete this thing.
I have had great luck with UPS. I dislike when they drop them off with USPS.
FedEx is the one I don't trust. They have a problem with delivering stuff to the wrong address and then denying it. Apparently being able to prove it was never delivered due to a security camera doesn't affect their belief in where they delivered stuff.
MB, There's a reason we call them fedUP... They also manage to lose sensitive items when I ship them to Battalion in Denver from the springs... I mean come on.. I could throw it in the bed of my truck and take it there myself and have better results.
I was talking to our paper service deputy yesterday and he bought a crossbreed holster for his 3.3 inch XDs. He said he would let me borrow it for a few days to see if I would like it or not. I've heard good things about them. One of our city cops has one for his CCW kahr 1911 and a CCW instructor carries an FN 5.7 in his.
OK, here is another take on these, originally called Ashley Express Sights. I first heard about them MANY MANY years ago. This is my favorite type of sight on any kind of firearm. AND if your eyes aren't what they used to be, you will be surprised how much your shooting can improve over the conventional square notch rear sights.
I have always (as long as I have been shooting handguns) had a hard time centering the front sight in the rear. Now with "Buckhorn", or more accurately Shallow V rear and bead front I don't have a problem. And as I have gotten older the problem has gotten harder to correct.
My Mom just joined the ranks of Proud Gun Owners today! Her XDm below my Kimber. I also picked up some custom grips from VZ grips and recieved them today. They're mounted on the 1911 in the photo. Sadly, since we live in Kolorado, she wasn't able to get a full size, so the Compact is going to have to do for her first pistol. hopefully it won't prove too much to handle for her (she's 58 and her hands don't work too well most days.) We shall see soon though!
my 45/70 handi rifle is complete. this thing just keeps getting stupid better. i just added the nikon 3-9x40 with bdc reticle. whats amazing is that i somehow managed to have less than $200 in the whole setup. the funny thing is that i never actually intended to have this particular setup. it just all worked itself out over a 2 year period of lucky happenings. and everything was brand spanking new when i purchased it!
i may upgrade the rings to warne rings but unless i find some for less than $20 it will mess up my less than $200 claim. i wouldn't want to over spend lol...
Governer Hickeypooper shoved legislation down our throats last year. still haven't seen it repealed, and unfortunately that tool got reelected... But, he was apologizing to the Sheriffs about it, and he knows its not working, so it might be on its way out. he's a Dem, I won't keep my fingers crossed...
I'm trying to locate some Xtensions for the baseplate so she has a bit more purchase. My grip on that pistol is only a three finger grip, and even though it's only a 9 mm, and she's not shooting +P, there is still the possibility it might be more than she can handle recoil wise. I'll have to find out when we get her to the range with it.
Yep the person I know likes the grip extensions on her xds9 mags. Be warned there was some chambering issues with hornady critical defense/duty. The sharper edge of the hollow point wanted to catch on the feed ramp.
That's what we picked up a couple boxes of. Won't know until we get it to the range and run the Self defense loads. hopefully it works. if not, though, it's on to the next type until I find her a load that shoots reliably. I don't think the pistol will need to be broken in though, my old XD ran like a greyhound out of the box with nary a bobble.
It didn't need broken in. It's just the thin lip next to the poly tip wanted to catch on the two piece feed ramp they designed. You could see it's damage to the round and how it fed. Any othe hollow points because the rounded lip work fine.
The result is the round would get half way out of the mag and stop. You had to lock the slide to the rear and push the round back into the mag before the mag could be released or the slide cycled. Not a jam you want to have in a gun fight becasue tap and rack just FUBARS the situation.
I'm trying to locate some Xtensions for the baseplate so she has a bit more purchase. My grip on that pistol is only a three finger grip, and even though it's only a 9 mm, and she's not shooting +P, there is still the possibility it might be more than she can handle recoil wise. I'll have to find out when we get her to the range with it.
Try these ECF. All I've heard about pierce products is good.
I need to relearn the meaning of the word... I'm so used to having an extra G to spend each month from couch surfing that It's going to be a shock when I have to pay rent again...
I have one for my Shield. A place here is selling then for $5. I haven't carried with it yet but it works for what you see. There is a bit of tension on the firearm because the part that goes in the barrel is slightly angled. The belt clip is pretty good as well. It's not complicated at all. I can't say I like it for carrying around all day but it could work. I can certainly see it for a grocery store run or taking out the trash and walking the dog when you don't want a major rig on you. I don't see any major issues with it as long as you practice drawing with it and know what you have if you should ever need to draw from it.
Well first off, and MAYBE the only thing, is that the entire gun will be against your body. The only thing between the gun and your skin would be your shorts and or a T shirt of some kind. Some folks don't wear a T-shirt underneath another one.
Other than that I really like the simplicity of it.
I didn't like the idea of having something stuck in the barrel but itS is a carry device and not something you should leave on the night stand. They do have a trigger guard attachment but I use the safety on my Shield so I opted to not use that part. And nope, I wouldn't recommend going commando but that's with or without this holster in mind .
The "Plug" retention device doesn't bother me. I was just concerned about nothing between the weapon and your skin. I sweat like a well a certain type of woman at a prayer meeting so that would always be a consideration for me. BUT, like you said for a quick trip to the store or out to the mailbox or what not, it would work out pretty well. PLUS like me, I could carry that way at work as I always have me shirt tucked in. Oh well Maybe I should only get one for my 45.
I was considering picking up one of those holsters. I understand there is a company that sells a Kydex trigger pocket thingy of sorts, that clips around the trigger guard of the pistol and ties to the holster via dummy cord. I can't locate it right now, but if I can track it down I'll bring it up here. might make the versacarry a little more safe covering the trigger.
Just got my Sig brace. Highly recommend it. What caliber are you running in the pistol and for what purpose?
Not sure what happened to my lower--my FFL didn't send the copy of his license yet and it's been over 3 weeks. His wife walked out and he'll be unemployed and homeless by 31 December. I've called hI'm a couple times to check in but no response to my last call. If I'm holding together after work I'll probably stop over and check in.
LOL, ECF, I have many more options. I just finished what is still the perfect carbine for me. Ran it through the paces the other day and it absolutely rocks and I have no issues with a red dot or irons to 400.
This is going to be a traveling pistol. It's small enough to be in the cabin and legal to have one in the pipe. I can also throw it in a pack and it's small enough no one would notice.
In a pinch it can fill a niche as a rifle substitute if needed.
Color me green with envy MB! I was considering building a backpack rifle myself, eyeballing the micro-draco that Atlantic Firearms has for sale, and a krink rail. noisy as hell, and probably not particularly accurate, but as a get home rifle, stuffed in a backpack with a folding sto- I mean brace, I can see if being useful.
RN, I remember it took me three months to figure out what I had done to the bolt on my Savage .22, all because I had removed the firing pin retainer and put it on backwards... I feel your pain!
Grrrr!!!! SO ANGRY!!!! I got my AR pistol put together but the POS BCG WON'T FIT!!!!!! It's like they took a perfectly fitting BCG and put on WAAAAY too much nickel boron coating! I tried working it back and forth a bit but only managed to get it stuck--had to bang it out with a brass punch! Waste of money! Lesson learned: if it says "PTAC" run the other way!
The BCG from my RRA fit no problem. The PTAC wouldn't fit the pistol OR the RRA. I HATE wasting money on junk that doESN't work. Thing is, I THOUGHT I was ordering a PSA NOT a PTAC at the time. Was looking at both and pushed "buy" on the wrong one.
I sent an angry email to customer service. I bought it at the end of September but didn't get everything together to assemble until Friday. Yeah, I'd heard to stay away from PTAC too, which I thought I had until this thing showed up. Went back to the site and saw "Nope, I inadvertently ordered the wrong one." "Oh well," I thought, "it looks to be made with quality materials. Besides, how badly can you screw up a BCG?" Pretty badly as it turns out! PSA=good. PTAC=POS.
More info... I shouldered bot and they both felt great. I like the smooth action on the Tikka but the X Bolt felt more robust and I like the rotary mag. The Tikka should be more accurate out of the box but paper target is just that. In the field either should hit gold at 200 yards.
I like a 308. Bigger bullet, better to fight the forces of nature (wind drift perhaps). Plus it's a 30 cal, not a 27. But that's just me. As Greaser says, Your mileage may vary.
I lean towards both Browning and .308 myself but I know someone that loves his Tikka. I don't think you could go wrong with either one. .270 seems to be more popular for whitetail in my area.
I may be wrong (haven't really been into guns for quite a while) but the .270 might be faster and flatter shooting. Those two factors might negate the advantage the 308 has.
I want to get a .308 but Tikka doesnt make a short action so I could get a Tikka .308 but it would have a longer action. Not the biggest deal but it sort of takes away part of the reason to get a .308 imo. The Tikka would be a couple hundred less, which would cover most of my scope cost. Oh decisions, decisions.
Marlin had some trouble with the manufacturing and stopped producing the rifle for the last couple years. My dream hunting rifle if they ever get it right.
Want flat and long shooting with a great ballistic coefficient? Get something chambered in 25-06 117-120 grains will drop em in their tracks at 2-300 yards every time.
338 seemed like a great idea on paper, but I'm wary of cartridges that only one manufacturer makes a round for. Almost pulled the trigger on one (so to speak), but never regretted not doing so. As you can tell, I have nothing constructive to add here
Nope, I agree but the thought of a long range compact lever action makes me drool. Remmington also made the round but may have stopped because I see all the online stores dont have any in stock.
Same brother has a Tikka in 300 wsm and it is his go to moose gun
Originally Posted by GeneralDelivery
More info... I shouldered bot and they both felt great. I like the smooth action on the Tikka but the X Bolt felt more robust and I like the rotary mag. The Tikka should be more accurate out of the box but paper target is just that. In the field either should hit gold at 200 yards.
My brother has a Sako 243 and 308 finnwolf for sale right now If I had the money I won't say anything to him as he really needs the money and would want to give me the rifle on time if I mentioned it
338 seemed like a great idea on paper, but I'm wary of cartridges that only one manufacturer makes a round for. Almost pulled the trigger on one (so to speak), but never regretted not doing so. As you can tell, I have nothing constructive to add here
At least if you go with the 338 federal you will always have a source for brass
Want flat and long shooting with a great ballistic coefficient? Get something chambered in 25-06 117-120 grains will drop em in their tracks at 2-300 yards every time.
My mom bought my dad a .257 wby mag back in 1981. It does pretty good.
Speaking for myself and the areas I hunt in, my 308 suits me fine Other than moose anything from a 243 up would work for me I still do most of my moose hunting with my 308 but up north I will use my 338 winmag And I find my 450 marlin nice as a camp gun up north
I got my EVIL Black (it's actually kinda gray) rifle MANY years ago from a little company called Colt. Mine is called an AR15A3 and it's wearing a Beeman SS4 scope. Oh my Precious.
Well the 29th is the day I take the final step to becoming a good Citizen and take my CCW class. THEN all I gotta do is wait for "Them" to bless me and I'm good to go! Got a value pack of 100 rounds of 45 ball, been dry firing a lot and I CAN tell a difference. Oh and the laser pistol I was using also helped. It's now easier for me to keep both eyes open.
Well the 29th is the day I take the final step to becoming a good Citizen and take my CCW class. THEN all I gotta do is wait for "Them" to bless me and I'm good to go! Got a value pack of 100 rounds of 45 ball, been dry firing a lot and I CAN tell a difference. Oh and the laser pistol I was using also helped. It's now easier for me to keep both eyes open.
Yep vltor MUR paired with a 15in light rail III Bcm auto carrier, and bcm 20in Sam-r barrel. Bcm large latch charging handle. AAC blackout flash hider
The lower is a war sport LVOA with all the goodies.
The ACOG was free!!! But not mine. The guy who I worked with on building it said it was in American to not have good glass on a 1moa or better rifle haha. So it's on indefinite loan till I get glass for it in a few months. The guy had a leupold mark 8 on his AR so the ACOG was sitting in a drawer gather dust.
I'm working on one, but I can't find the upper that I want. I'm looking for a 16 inch pencil barrel with an A2 upper. I want a KISS rifle that is as light as I can make it. Plus I hate the big knobs on the detachable carry handles.
I'm working on one, but I can't find the upper that I want. I'm looking for a 16 inch pencil barrel with an A2 upper. I want a KISS rifle that is as light as I can make it. Plus I hate the big knobs on the detachable carry handles.
Nice, what a score GD! Lucky Dog! Once you outfit your rifle with your optic of choice, mind asking for me how much he'd be willing to part with that ACOG for?
I have a 5.56 AK that is screaming for a magnification upgrade, and I can switch my Vortex over to my M14 as an offset to compliment her 4-16x
Honestly I doubt he wants to sell it. He has had it for a long time. It's actually got a rattle can tan finish. This guy really has enough funds he can do what he wants when he wants. Lol his range ammo is hornady 75grain BTHP match ammo lol. And I'm shooting ball lol. Wish I could help ya but if it was cheap enough I'd grab it. But I don't think it's going to be for sale.
I hope not. I don't know that I could assemble an upper, but I did find that Rock River uppers can be ordered like I want, but it takes a little patience.
Some Chamber Go/No go gauges, an AR 15 combination wrench of sorts, and... that's about it. Most AR components nowadays are CNC machined and are all so close to the proper specs that you could, in theory, slap an AR together, tighten everything down, and go fire it safely. I would personally gauge it before shooting though, because one out of spec chamber and you've got yourself a grenade, not a rifle.
Tools were as listed. Punches, brass hammer, torque wrench. Smith enteprises armorers wrench, Allen wrenches for the rail and gas block I used, you need a way to mount the upper in a vice I used a reaction rod. That's about it.
http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mack_Bolan I used to read these back in the day Some funny stuff like using a Marlin 444 as a sniper rifle, after a few books he hired a gun guy to keep his stories more correct
I was a big Marvel fan during the 70's and I remember when the Punisher came out I was never much of a fan of the Punisher Back then I was into; Thor, Avengers and Spiderman
Not really worth starting a new thread over, so I'll just post it here.
I just intercepted my wife's Christmas gift to me. I just opened up a large envelope from the NRA. Looks like I'm a card carrying Benefactor Member now. She must've done it when they sent us the discount packet a few weeks ago. SHE'S AWESOME!!!
A couple of us were talking AR15's the other morning. I looked at my Colt AR15a3 and the receiver is marked .223 and the barrel is marked 5.56 NATO. I thought that rather strange. Does it mean something?
To go with the punisher theme. A Mock up of my new build.
In YOUR line of work, this should be a good weapon for ya. I was talking to a trooper the other morning, and he carries an AR15 He built instead of an issue .223. The issue rifles were made by someone he isn't all that fond of but can't remember the name. Oh and YES, he did have to get everyone to sign off and then qualify with it.
Randy, the dimensions are similar but the 5.56 NATO round is higher pressure. With that barrel you will be able to run .223 and 5.56, but don't run 5.56 in a .223 barrel.
There is also another .223 chamber on the market, called .223 Wylde. It's supposed to be cut to shoot 5.56 safely, but it's also optimized for accuracy using either 5.56 or .223, since using one chamber or the other effects the performance. I think Bushmaster offers it IIRC
I thought the Wlyde Chamber was 223/5.56 and designed to shoot the longer round like the 77 grain bullets which sometimes won't chamber in a 5.56 due to OAL. Usually on a precision rig.
Yeah I didn't figure that the lower marked .223 would matter much as was said a LOT of uppers can be put on that lower receiver. I just found out about the .223 wylde the other day and they said the same thing. Basically the same thing but match cut chamber.
That looks very cool. I have never heard of the manufacturer though. EBAY sketches me out on gun parts. Well a lot of things.
The pistol is already taken back apart. New comp is on I need to hit the barrel with some cold blueing and get some back up irons and get the forearm re-attached.
I took it to the range and test fired it since I put a new low profile gas block on it. I am happy to say it is still a semi auto and not a single shot so I must have done it right.
I felt the same way MB but I have seen this guys work in person and it seems to be on par with the pro barrels I have seen. He took the chance I am reaping the benefits. Lol
That pistol should be a nice piece when you are all done.
Good score Randy, I've heard good things about it. There was a side by side comparison between it and some $2K ultra compact, and the PF9 compared very favorably, only marginally larger than the semi-custom they compared it to. Keltec makes good firearms, people don't give them enough credit.
I was eyeballing an SU-16B myself, or a 16C with the sight upgrade. With the upgrades available on Keltec's website (pistol grip and M4 stock adapter) and the rail system available aftermarket for it, it turns it into a solid contender for a truck gun, for 2/3rds the price of a comparable AR, and also 2/3rds the weight. weighs about 5.6lbs with a loaded magazine, lol. Plus it'll finally put to use the 12 AR mags I snagged before our mag ban went into effect...
I thought you were about the Kel-tec. I really like the way it feels in my hands. But boy does it have a long trigger pull. I was gonna get some one round mag extensions to go with new mags but in the long run just settled on the regular 7 rounders.
My Kel-Tec came with a pinky extension for the magazine. I put those on my XDs flush magazines and really like them. But on the Ket-Tec the end of the extension hit my finger dead center so as soon as I grabbed it I took it back off.
They make a one round extension that might not be to bad and I might get one of those to try later on. And If I like it I will put it on both my spare mags. Time will tell.
GD unless they can do an 18 in stainless in 7.62x40 for well under 270 I just can't see the advantage of them over Wilson combat who developed the round.
Skunk I really like keltecs stuff but they can never produce enough to keep up with demand there 12 guage is sick and was suposed to be in the 700 dollar range when they released it 5 or so years ago but they built like 3 or them so now after 5 years they are almost available at msrp. Same thing with most of there products it P me O. Lol
Oh ok my bad I misunderstood sorry. The eBay barrel is just a cheap place holder for the Wilson barrel at least that was my thinking. For just over 100 I wouldn't feel bad about ditching it later.
Nope no more 5.56 for me after the 7.62x40 comes the dpms g2 recon and maybe a bolt action 223. I have the perfect 5.56 for me already so unless things change drastically I will have no use for the barrel after. Unless you want to take it off my hands after.lol
and the stock kit is available for less than 1 bill on Keltec's website..
I think I've found my piston driven, AR Mag fed, ultra-lightweight truck gun and hog killer In a Charlie configuration, rather than the SBR. and I can probably piece it together for less than $1K
I just totaled up the weight of the Keltec outfitted exactly as I intend to build it, with a full mag, weighs in around 8.5 lbs. That's less than my AK weighs empty...
greaser, I've really been smitten with MFT's products. For the price too, it's a great deal. I like the positioning of the QD swivel cup, means I don't have to pick up an ambi sling mount to go with it.
Well Dang it! got my three mags in today for my Kel-tec. Shipped out on Monday and Arrived on Wednesday!
But there's just one small minor problem. The packages are all marked KEL-TEC CNc, INC. PF9-498 7 Rd MAGAZINE 9mm LUGER CALIBER. BUT they are 380 MAGS!!!!
That's no good. Hopefully it will only take a phone call to get it fixed.
I'm frustrated since that darned "self Censored" magazine ban I am having a heck of a hard time finding a company to ship me a single 20 round P-mag for my duty rig. 30 is too much to carry on my belt and that's all I have.
The state decided anything over 15 rounds was evil and banned all new ones and grandfathered the old ones. Technically I can have/buy them for work but it's a PITA.
We are still fighting to have the law overturned But we lost round one and the appeal is taking way too long.
Unfortunately no I can't order them through the agency. They issue 1 30 and 1 20 but it's old school metal. The gen 3 magpul 20's are curved and a little shorter. Plus it will blend into the duty belt better.
I will have to find a police supply place and pay twice what its worth or wait til I am out of state.
Whats messed up is legally I will have to destroy that one magazine on the day I retire.
It could work but in the end its probably still cheaper to get one at a police supply.
Its more venting about the stupid law than the mag itself. Its just funny that I want to buy a lower capacity magazine than what I have and the state threw a huge roadblock in my way.
Nearly every cop in the state fought against this law and the pushed it through. It's poorly written and unenforceable. We actually sued the state and we are still in litigation over it.
MB, Let me take a look on post, I think I can pick them up at Patriot Outfitters. PMAG work for you? I swear I remember seeing 20 rounders at one point, so I might be able to nab one.
No, I'm talking about the Magpuls. I have one and it is perfect. I bought one of the M3's when they came out and I am disappointed with it. I have enough metal mags to get me by, but I still keep an eye out for the old Magpuls but I never see them.
I agree... it's agonizing to see my state fall under the "state compliant" category on certain firearms websites, like SiG's. it's just the principle of it.
I am the opposite JJ i am selling my 9mm because of the safety. I just dont like anymore complications then necessary so double action striker fired only for me.
As you well know, there are a LOT of smaller guns out there. I would think that for her it would be important to have a smooth, not to long or strong trigger pull.
Could make for a difficult decision. I will have to look at that Sig.
To be clear. My wife is prior service. She was security forces. She is trained to release the safety as she draws. The safety issue is a non-issue except that she feels better about carrying it around or boys. It is what she likes and her draw to engagement is faster than most.
To be clear. My wife is prior service. She was security forces. She is trained to release the safety as she draws. The safety issue is a non-issue except that she feels better about carrying it around or boys. It is what she likes and her draw to engagement is faster than most.
Plus, I really like that Sig.
Nice. Mine is scared of the p22 I got her to learn on lol consider yourself lucky she has the skill set and mindset to defend herself. Mine is coming around slllooowwwly which being a impatient [censored] engineer drives me nuts.
Well, she said she wishes they made a purse size 1911. The Sig is basically that. Has all the same mechanics for the most part.
As for picking it out ... It's her Christmas present. It'll be a surprise.
First off, let me start by saying "It's a SiG" with that out of the way If you like it, that's bonus points, since you'll want to shoot it to. I have an NCO who EDCs a P238, they're ITTY BITTY in the hand, as you well know. He loves his. It's not my personal experience, but I'd trust SSG Spruce's opinion, he's definitely a gun guy.
Well, she said she wishes they made a purse size 1911. The Sig is basically that. Has all the same mechanics for the most part.
As for picking it out ... It's her Christmas present. It'll be a surprise.
First off, let me start by saying "It's a SiG"
Yeah, I'm a bit surprised by others trying to talk me out of getting top the line. Randy even mentioned a Keltec as an alternative to a Sig!?!?!? I guess I should have expected that from the Chair Force.
My only concern about a single action that small for self defense is stuff getting between the hammer and the pin while being carried locked and cocked.
Well, she said she wishes they made a purse size 1911. The Sig is basically that. Has all the same mechanics for the most part.
As for picking it out ... It's her Christmas present. It'll be a surprise.
First off, let me start by saying "It's a SiG"
Yeah, I'm a bit surprised by others trying to talk me out of getting top the line. Randy even mentioned a Keltec as an alternative to a Sig!?!?!? I guess I should have expected that from the Chair Force.
Nothing wrong with a sig as long as it is double action and it doesn't have a safety.
Lol, they do have a reputation for being "soldier-proof" which means "idiot-proof", and in today's world, that's a hard thing to come by.
To be fair about the Kel-tec, IMHO, Kel-tec really does make some very good quality for the price firearms, and all of my research on the PF9 (none hands on, sadly) suggests it's a solid contender for the micro compact 9mm market. But, you do get what you pay for. My buddy's Kimber just started having some serious mis-feeds, ironically when he switched to Wilson Combat magazines, (where my 10$ Mec-Gar runs like a machine) so caveat emptor.
Besides, the color and grip options for SiGs are practically limitless. I have a lady friend who is in love with the rainbow anodizing.
I like the Kel-tec for it's size. And no more than I will be shooting it (HOPEFULLY), it should work out ok. I DO have a couple Sigs, a P220 (45acp) and an old out of production P225 single stack 9mm. Of all my guns I think this is my favorite. it is the first sig I ever bought and it was worked over many years ago by one of the premiere "Sig Smiths" John Quintrall. He and Tedwca used to work for a Fruity Computer/phone company but John has since retired his gunsmithing tools.
IF I carry a 9 very often for CCW, it will mostly be the kel-tec, but but Sig will be heavily pushing for the first spot. Now in the 45 category, it will be the Springfield Armory XDs.
I like the Sig 938. I couldn't carry one. Thye are just way too small for my hands.
I'm not a fan of Sigs though. The companies quality control has taken a nose dive. Before anyone gets all butt hurt its just a fact. The old M-11 was the pinnacle. Price to performance with what you get S&W and Glock have them beat. The major reason very few law enforcement agencies carry sigs as duty weapons.
With that said S&W has some major issues to. Glock appears to be getting it's problems taken care of. Fortunately I never ran across their issues.
I have a pretty practical outlook on firearms. First it has to be reliable. I have a rule of thumb that for me to trust a weapon It has to have at least 500 rounds cycled without a hitch. I have to be able to shoot it well. It has to fit my needs, action, size, weight, caliber, capacity etc. Finally I have to like it. If it does the other things I probably like it.
I've been thinking... Should I jump on the Keltec SU-16 Idea that I had before, kit it out, and roll with it, or should I wait until Keltec FINALLY releases the RDB and pick one of those up and give it a whirl? Both are in 5.56, Both use AR mags, Both suit my needs very well, but damned be the wait times with Keltec. I think someone needs to force them to hire 20 more employees so they can actually keep up with the demand for their products.
I would probably pick up an SU-16 and kit it out just to have one at some point, but in the near time frame, it's 6 in one hand, half dozen in the other.
Well the magazine problem I was having with my Kel-tec pf9 has been resolved. SOMEHOW a lone 40s&W round got in my partial box of 9mm. I can't believe I didn't catch that it wasn't a 9mm shell.
Yeah, but I don't want an AR platform, honestly. The SU-16 offers AR ergonomics for significantly reduced weight, which is why I was considering it, but the RDB offers a much shorter rifle and 18.5" barrel, just have to play the waiting game. ARs are great, I just don't want one :\
Yeah, but I don't want an AR platform, honestly. The SU-16 offers AR ergonomics for significantly reduced weight, which is why I was considering it, but the RDB offers a much shorter rifle and 18.5" barrel, just have to play the waiting game. ARs are great, I just don't want one :\
I would go for the RDB, new AR style SU16 defeats the purpose of the original design which was a light, compact backpacking weapon. I also question its long term reliability when used as a high volume shooter.
Yeah, but I don't want an AR platform, honestly. The SU-16 offers AR ergonomics for significantly reduced weight, which is why I was considering it, but the RDB offers a much shorter rifle and 18.5" barrel, just have to play the waiting game. ARs are great, I just don't want one :\
I would go for the RDB, new AR style SU16 defeats the purpose of the original design which was a light, compact backpacking weapon. I also question its long term reliability when used as a high volume shooter.
I would as well, since the barrels aren't chrome lined. I haven't heard any issues as far as overall durability is concerned, though
GD, Yes, I have considered it. Still, I'd like something that offers an improvement over the standard AR, either size wise, or weight wise. ARs are great weapons, don't get me wrong, and all of the myriad adaptations are great, but I won't do DI because I hate cleaning up after something that vomits into its own mouth, and piston would be fine, but (and this is where it's hard to explain), I just don't want an AR or otherwise. I want something different, that's not a Tavor (didn't like the handling), FS2000 (iron sights SUUUUUUUCK), AUG (UGLY, and in the end, I have to look at it...), or an AK bullpup conversion (zilch ambi capacity). I have two AKs in a traditional rifle configuration. It's time for something different, ya know? and I've got so many AR mags laying around, it'd be a shame to not have something to feed with them.
Military Arms Channel just reminded me about the MDR by Desert Tactical Arms as well, but MAN talk about pricey... might be worth it though, as it offers decent ambidextrous capability.
I know I know, I'm being picky... but look at my choice in Knives
I've handled the ARX before, and even shot it. I didn't like the feel of the weapon, unfortunately. I will take the ACR back into consideration, as well as the SCAR. So many options, not enough money...
LOL, I was goofing with a Tavor the other day. Not my thing. Way heavy for what it is. I tend to run lighter AR's. I can't stand a whole bunch of crap hanging off a gun.
I go simple. A red dot and a light on a lightweight forearm.
The israelis have this weird way of holding the Tavor, something about 5 points of contact with the weapon and such. Funny thing is, My bulky American frame can't do it at all, I just don't bend that way..
Tavors are pretty popular up here, partly due to our goofy laws A Tavor is non-restricted so it can be carried just about anywhere, while the AR15 is restricted and can only be shot at approved ranges
I posted this little anecdote to my facebook page on Saturday night when I got home from the shooting range, not knowing that it would touch so many people. Numerous friends asked me to post it up on my site so that it can live in perpetuity and be shared with people who aren’t into social media. Here it is. Enjoy.
Interesting experience at the shooting range this afternoon…. The range is packed. Everyone got new guns for X-mas and wants to shoot them. There was about an hour wait for a stall. I sit down and start reading as I wait my turn. In a few minutes, a young girl sits down to wait in the chair next to mine. She’s by herself and appears to be in her early 20s. She’s the only black person in the room and one of the only women. She seems nervous as she fiddles with the gun case in her lap. She’s obviously uncomfortable. Uncomfortable people with guns in their hands shooting in the stall next to me isn’t what I like to see. I decide to talk to her. Keep in mind that no one at this range knows me or knows what I do for a living. That’s why I like shooting there; I have complete anonymity and can focus on my own training rather than teaching others. I rarely talk to anyone, but something told me that I needed to talk to this girl. “It’s a long wait, huh?” “What kind of gun did you bring to shoot?” She smiles and seems visibly relieved that someone was being nice to her. She says “It’s just a 9mm. Nothing special, but it’s the only thing I could afford.” We keep talking. I find out she’s a single mom with two kids. Her house has been broken into three times in the last two months. The last burglary attempt occurred while she was in the house with her kids. She has never shot a gun, but she recognized that she had a duty to protect her family. She went to a gun show and bought a Jimenez Arms JA-9. She asked all her male friends and family members to go to the range with her, but all of them turned her down. She tells me that she has a bad feeling that the robbers are coming back tonight to get the x-mas presents she bought for her kids. She doesn’t know anything about guns and doesn’t know anyone who can teach her. She’s signed up for a CCW class, but no one teaches classes on the week of Christmas and she can’t find an opening until January. The problem is that she thinks the robbers are coming TONIGHT. A January class isn’t going to help. She told me that even though she didn’t know what she was going to do, she knew she better figure out how to shoot the gun before she has to shoot the robbers tonight. That’s why she was there by herself at the shooting range. It didn’t matter that she was by herself, that she was the only woman in the room, or that she knew nothing about guns. She had babies to protect and was going to figure out how to do it, come hell or high water. It got me thinking about the courage and commitment that this woman was displaying. How many people would intentionally place themselves into a situation where they know they will be the outsider and probably look stupid and inept to all the other “experts” at the range? Not many. The woman had guts. “I think I can help you. Let’s share a stall. I’ll show you how to shoot your gun.” Helping her seemed like the right thing to do. No problem there. The problem was that the range was closing in an hour and she could only afford one box of bullets. How’s that for a dilemma for you instructors out there? You have less than an hour and one box of bullets to take a woman who has never held a gun before and prepare her for a gunfight that she thinks will happen TONIGHT. Game on. Challenge accepted. Gun function, loading, stance and grip and sight alignment in 15 minutes. On to live fire. Slow fire two handed at first until she got used to the gun, then some faster shots, a few shots right hand only/left hand only so that she had the confidence she could do it if she had to. Finished up with a few reps of malfunction drills. I’m pleased to say that she kept all of her shots in the chest area of a silhouette target at 10-15 feet. The gun puked a couple times, but it gave her a chance to practice her tap/rack. She sucked up the information I provided like a sponge. She was a better student than any of the thousands of cops I’ve taught. The range closed. I wished her luck She packed up her new gun and left. I told her that I was a cop, but not that I teach people to shoot for a living. For all she knows, I’m just some friendly dude at the range. I like it that way. The whole experience gives me pause. How many times have you been at the range and looked down your nose at somebody shooting a HiPoint or Jennings? How many times have you silently thought “idiot” when someone fumbles with their gun? How many times have you looked askance at shooters using the “wrong” grip? I know I do all of those things almost every time I’m at a public shooting range…but I won’t do it anymore. What if those “idiots” are really just people like this woman…inexperienced, poor, and without anyone to teach them how to do things right? By the luck of the draw, this woman pulled up a chair next to a professional firearms instructor at the range. She could have just as easily sat next to “Bubba” who will tell her that her gun is a piece of [censored] and that there’s no way she could ever learn to defend herself in an hour. We shooters need to do better. It doesn’t matter if someone has a shitty blaster or if they don’t know how to hold it correctly. They might be in a situation like this woman was in. We need to help these people the best that we can. Who knows what an impact we will have? Save a life or sneer at an “idiot.” It’s your choice.
Good on him! I've been trying to teach my mom how to shoot her XDm. So far so good haven't worked up to malfunction clearance yet, but I've got some snapcaps waiting for her so she can practice that.
WOO HOO, I am now a legal card carrying commu, I mean CCW holder! Whew, I bet if I had accidentally finished typing in that word Obama would be trying to give me a job!
I got my AR Pistol rebuilt. I like it except I'm not sure about the Sig Brace.
I must have an over sized pistol Buffer tube. I can only get it a little over halfway on the tube. It took an act of aggression to get it on that far. I'm not sure it will come off. Its stuck in one spot.
I put it on my forearm and its awkward. I thought it might be great for bullseye style shooting. I have big forearms. Its tight and I have a hard time getting the sight to the eye without canting the pistol similar to shooting with a gas mask on.
I am going to give it a shot (literally) at the range a few times before I write it off.
There's heresay that the ATF is reversing their decision on the SiG Brace that is can't be improvised as a shoulder stock... at this point, it's only heresay though.
Its not hearsay El Caca. If you put it on with the intent to use it as a stock its an SBR.
If you build it as a pistol with the intent to use it as a pistol brace then its a pistol.
There are a bunch of people that decided because of the letter to Greenwood PD that it was an end around to an SBR which was incorrect and then they started doing you tube videos telling everyone to put it on their pistols with the intent of using it as a rifle.
I guess many people don't get the distinction of intent as it relates to criminal law. You can do nearly the same thing and in many cases your intent is what makes it criminal or not.
An example would be hitting a dog with a car. If its an accident its not a crime. But if you intentionally run over a dog its a crime. The action and result is the same its all in intent.
That's pretty much my thinking as well. Now just to decide which one I want. I am kinda leaning toward the alien gear because it will be softer thereby conforming to my rotund body type easier, although I really like the horsehide White holsters.
Saw the Sheriff's son today and found out he is a class III dealer. One thing lead to another and I found out he has had 6-8 different suppressors and is now running one of these http://huntertownarms.com/
The cheapest sells for less than the tax stamp, and the one he has (one of the best he says) goes for 89 more. I might get the boss to concur that we NEED one of these!
I just picked up a MEC jr 12 gauge reloader tonight, now to figure it out. Spring is getting here quickly and I need some ammo to kill those evil clay pigeons.
I just picked up a MEC jr 12 gauge reloader tonight, now to figure it out. Spring is getting here quickly and I need some ammo to kill those evil clay pigeons.
They are VERY nasty. The leave part of themselves everywhere!
You will like the ruger Skunk my mother has one with the built in laser and it is what sold me on the LCP. I will be selling my SAR 9mm soon to get the mod 2 XD in 9mm.
Picked up a .270 Winchester barrel for my Handi-Rifle. I really had no interest in the caliber but it was a pretty good deal. I was thinking of selling it but after doing some reasearch it seems some folks really like it as hunting round for deer and elk sized game. It would also add some range to my current collection which is what I had been thinking of doing with a .308 or .300 bolt rifle. I come out much cheaper this way I guess but again it's another caliber. I will most likely still get the .300 (another caliber) and just keep the .270 as a backup.
Really accurate too. It's too bad it's not a mil/super popular caliber (don't get me wrong, it's popular), I would consider it a little more myself. perhaps in a few years when I've settled on rifles that will have ammunition during TEOTWAWKI, then I'll start enjoying the wide world of ammunition
Picked up a .270 Winchester barrel for my Handi-Rifle. I really had no interest in the caliber but it was a pretty good deal. I was thinking of selling it but after doing some reasearch it seems some folks really like it as hunting round for deer and elk sized game. It would also add some range to my current collection which is what I had been thinking of doing with a .308 or .300 bolt rifle. I come out much cheaper this way I guess but again it's another caliber. I will most likely still get the .300 (another caliber) and just keep the .270 as a backup.
Any thoughts on .270 Winchester?
The 270 occupies a pretty crowded group of hunting cartridges Many will debate on why 1 is better then another but in my opinion it is mostly hot air As a general hunting cartridge for deer, black bear sized game, the 270, 7mm-08,308 and 30/06 are pretty much the same Yes the 270 is slightly flatter shooting, yes with heavier ammunition the 30/06 may be better suited for larger bears But for average hunting you really won't notice any difference
Yup, well I guess the .270 handi barrel will be a keeper. It appears it will do what I bought the 30-30 to do and maybe do it a little better. Simple enough for a inexperienced shooter since its a Handi-Rifle and (hopefully) accurate and flat shooting with enough knock down to reach out to where I wouldn't want to go with my 7.62x39 bolt rifle. This is good for my plans to setup some hunting lanes and stands on some of our property.
I wasn't looking for a rifle to put a ton or rounds through so this does keep my price down as the barrel was only $80 and fits my current handi frame perfectly. All together I have barrels in .357(.38), 45/70, .270, and 12 gauge that will all work on the same H&R frame. That could make for some serious meat getting right there.
Been reading the Handi-Rifle may be going away soon...
Inside 150 yards or so a 30/30 is every bit as good as a 270 on deer sized game Plus if you handload, then you can load Spitzer bullets in the 30/30 which changes the characteristics of the round
I'm not handloading yet. With the 336 I didn't want to drill it for a sling so I was planning to keep it as a stand rifle and just set it up for 100-150 yards. I got reduced recoil loads for my younger cousins and Leverevolution for a stouter load. I figured I probablt wouldnt shoot it very much. But I just went and pulled the scope off as I like it better that way and it's much lighter. I will most likely find some cheaper plinking ammo to use now. I may even look at peep sights and at some point try it at hog hunting. I can see shooting it a lot more without the scope.
You have to be careful with it My one brother and I both have winchester 94 Timbers in 450 Marlin We use them as camp guns when hunting up north for grizzly protection
He bought his about a month before mine He bought the leverevelution and his gun was accurate I bought Hornady flatpoints
When we were practicing rapid cycling His would jam on occasion, not all the time but enough to discount the rifle from being a dangerous game gun
We eventually figured out it was the ammo When he used my flat topped ammo, the jams disappeared
I think it's just going to be a matter of finding the "Sweet Spot" and getting used to it. Today will tell a lot. I put it back on at 2330 and won't take it off until about 1600 or so this afternoon when we get home from the Grand Kids Place.
Lookin for a new belt. Now that I will be CCW several hours every day, I am looking for a better belt. The one I have is OK, but I want one that is QUALITY and won't wear out in a year or so. I think that I want a 1.5 inch belt and 7 holes for adjustment (three tighter and three looser) than the normal wear position.
What do Y'all suggest? $100.00 is pretty much my max ceiling.
I finally have something constructive to add to this thread.
Skunk, take a look at: http://www.thebeltman.net/. I have three gun belts from him and couldn't be more pleased. The oldest belt is five years old and is wearing beautifully. I wear a Glock 17 on my strong side with two mags on the weak side with no problem.
Well we now have an official anoncment from the ATF. No shouldering an arm brace... Because your redesigning it.... These guys are idiots lol. Redesigning it? Where did they learn about engineering and production? Shoulding now = engineering and manufacturing it into something else...
Randy, this was the first thing I found when I googled it. I have some 2" Nylon belts stiffened with Kydex that we issue to our MPs, and they're great, if a bit big for everyday carry. I figured a kydex stiffened belt might be a good fit for you too.
So, I have crunched the set up in my head, and I will be putting in for a Huntertown arms steel can by this summer I'll be getting their .308 suppressor so that I can run it on my M14 as well as my 5.56 AK. woohoo hushed shooting!!!
What were you looking forward to? I've already keyed in on the Desert Tech MDR that I mentioned before, but that was announced at 2014, so no surprise there.
I have been waiting for Glock to release a single stack 9mm. Instead of the 9mm they released a 380 last year and early on this year they put out to dealers a single stack 9mm was coming which is what should have been released a year ago.
I'm guessing they are having design problems or as usual their Marketing department is being run bu drunken monkeys that jhave a bad meth habit.
They release the most bizarre things. The Glock 40? Unless you are willing to pay more for a out of the box option its way cheaper to have it custom milled and real suppressor sights put on. The sights they shipped it with are useless with optics where they could have shipped them with suppressor sights. They claimed people might want a choice. But there are only two manufacturers of suppressor sights for a Glock.
I like the guns but I really dislike their business model.
I have a couple Cobra Buckle belts similar to the ones this guy makes. http://www.jonestactical.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=50:cobra-shooters-belt-csb-15&catid=2&Itemid=44
The guy who made mine is out of the business but I have heard good things about jones tactical. I think mine are 1.75" and they are very comfortable carrying a concealed firearm and Knife.
Ok now I am done with this one, time to start on my next build.
They're never done. You still need to free-float that barrel if you want to take full advantage of that scope. (sincere comment...but j/k re: being done. that's a good looking rifle!)
I am pretty stoked this morning. I got the opportunity to T&E a newer FF Handguard from Parrallax Tactical.
I got a PM this morning that once it gets to me its mine to keep.
Its for a review from a third party and they just want an honest evaluation, warts and all.
It comes at a good time since this was the last piece I was waiting on for the rebuild of an H-Bar upper. And it was once of the once I was looking at but there isn't much about them on the net.
MB it is a Primary arms mount, I have heard nothing but good about it and it seems quality.https://www.primaryarms.com/Primary_Arms_AR15_Scope_Mount_p/pabasicsm.htm Scope Is the 1x4 lighted retical bushnell, again nothing but good reviews and seems quality so far. http://www.bushnell.com/tactical/rifle-scopes/ar-optics/1-4x-24mm-throw-down-pcl
Ishi it is a 300 and under battle rifle for me so center mass acuracy is what i am going for. But keep an eye out for my next build which will be a long range set up and be full float for sure.
I can't imagine it would be difficult to fit a Leapers AR folding stock adapter to it. I was happy with my Leapers, until the good idea fairy struck with a dremel tool... but hey, for 10$ at the time, I wasn't too upset.
Looked it up. Stocks not made anymore and it was $400 Beretta had a new tactical semi auto shotgun out and looks like it can be had for under 1000. Is it a benelli killer?
Beretta, Benelli... same thing. Literally Benelli is owned by Beretta. Benelli is just Beretta's Ferarri versus their (slightly) more economical Dodge Viper.
I hear the Beretta's run like tops though, so I wouldn't doubt it being a good option.
One of our local Troopers showed me an AR Pistol he built. 7.5 inch barrel, 500 lumen light, Flat top receiver with Vortex Strike Fire red/green dot scope with mount, all for 1K. He wouldn't get more specific. Oh and he has the Sig Brace on it as well.
I have a Colt AR15 A3, Box stock. I THINK it's this one, but don't remember it having that stepdown part on the barrel. It is a heavy (I guesss) 16 inch barrel with the short forestock. What kind of handguard (Rail) would fit on it?
Since I just got a rail from them they are sending me some Arisaka accessories for the handguard instead. Which makes me a happy camper.
It depends on what you want to do with it Skunk. If you have a front sight post and want to keep it you can do a 2 piece rail or yo can do some gun smithing and add a free float rail depending on what you are looking for.
Since I just got a rail from them they are sending me some Arisaka accessories for the handguard instead. Which makes me a happy camper.
It depends on what you want to do with it Skunk. If you have a front sight post and want to keep it you can do a 2 piece rail or yo can do some gun smithing and add a free float rail depending on what you are looking for.
IF I do it, just for something different and maybe putting a light on some day, maybe. Actually What I need is a set of BUIS for it. In case my scope goes south.
Sigh. BATF has now come out with a ruling that shouldering a Sig Brace fundamentally changes a pistol into a rifle and makes it illegal unless you pay the tax. CAA Saddle seems like a good option at this point...
Also, using a hammer to alter a garment fundamentally changes it into a sewing machine, according to the BATF. This is going to be an interesting legal battle. don't throw away your Sig Braces yet...
Yeah I know. But still, NORMALLY if anything was going on outside where we live, it would still be one of my Weatherby TRS shotguns. Now IF we got over ran by a gang of pikers or what ever, a GANG, it would be a different. But for normal "Bump in the night" it would be the shotty first.
You mean these guys? If its these guys you have bigger problems. If it's these guys its a rip in the space time continuum. Next it could be dinosaurs.
Originally Posted by SkunkHunter
Yeah I know. But still, NORMALLY if anything was going on outside where we live, it would still be one of my Weatherby TRS shotguns. Now IF we got over ran by a gang of pikers or what ever, a GANG, it would be a different. But for normal "Bump in the night" it would be the shotty first.
I used to wonder why anyone would use an AR as a go to. I have to say that's my go to long gun. I can do a lot with an AR, From surgical to laying down a wall of hate and everything in between. But I also get some trigger time and formal training at least once a month.
Yeah, being to REGULARLY being able to practice, to keep the skill set up has a lot to do with weapon choice.
Like me. I carry a 45, because I like shooting that caliber. I also carry a 9mm. I shoot the 9mm better and am considering to adding my Sig P225 into the CCW mix. That would give me three different weapons to choose from.
1. Springfield XDs - 45acp 2. Kel-Tec PF9 - 9mm 3. Sig P225 - 9mm
If ammo prices crash I will be buying as much as I can afford.
And then prices wont crash, lol... I think everyone will be doing this, then good luck finding any after that. Sure, it'll be 18 cents a round, but no rounds
GD that barrel is a takeoff from my old Colt H-bar. It was before its Time. 1/7 twist and M-4 feed ramps 20 years ago. It was a tack driver on the other upper I just couldn't stand the carry handle with that barrel.
Who knew that White Chocolate Raisinettes has that much stopping power? (ripped straight from the comments on the video, credit goes to some dude who was a wiser wisecracker than me )
I would love to El Caca. Unfortunately I work on the weekends. I"m going tomorrow if the weather is 32 or above and trying to hit it on Friday as well.
Wow. Just found a handful of XD 45s for $299-329. If I had the extra cash, I'd be sitting pretty with another Springfield right now
I keep looking at the PTAC 308 lowers from Palmetto State. Complete lower for $179...are the lowers really THAT bad? Not looking for match grade, just minute of deer out to 300 yards--assume that has more to do with the upper than the lower....
I managed to make it out to the range. I qualified on my BUG and was able to test fire and dial in my MBUS sights since I didn't have my optics in yet.
It runs like a top. Not too bad for plastic sights. 5 round groups.
Well, perhaps on one of these long weekends I have, we can get together for some trigger time. I spoke too soon on my plans anyway. Army Finance decided they didn't want to pay me my BAH at all, so I'm getting a 900$ mid month check, which will cover my car payment, insurance, and POSSIBLY gas... it's going to be a tight three weeks...
A buddy of mine bought one last month. Still anticipating the build, since I'll be helping him put it together. He's just got to come up with the parts to build it. It seemed pretty solid, for a poly reciever, but with anti-walk pins, I don't think it'll have any problems.
Aim Has Anderson Lowers for 39 bucks. That's hard to beat. I am enjoying the lowering prices of AR stuff. I have gotten lucky and managed to get a hold of high quality gear for cheap prices the past few months.
It seemed on closer inspection to be a pretty good deal. There are aluminum inserts in key points for strength, and plenty of lightening cuts as you can easily see, but the thing that stood out to me is the buffer tube interface is an aluminum insert, so it's metal on metal contact instead of metal on plastic. I've heard (and seen in person on another poly reciever) that trigger pins have a tendency to try and walk out on polymer recievers, since the plastic doesn't offer the same press fit as an aluminum reciever. I imagine you probably couldn't beat on most of the poly lowers too hard, but for a shooting gun, can't beat the economy.
Wow. Just found a handful of XD 45s for $299-329. If I had the extra cash, I'd be sitting pretty with another Springfield right now
I keep looking at the PTAC 308 lowers from Palmetto State. Complete lower for $179...are the lowers really THAT bad? Not looking for match grade, just minute of deer out to 300 yards--assume that has more to do with the upper than the lower....
[censored] that's a steal on those XDs.
Nothing wrong with the Palmetto state stuff all the issues I ever heard about were slow to ship out stuff but I have ordered 5 times from them without any issues.
It seemed on closer inspection to be a pretty good deal. There are aluminum inserts in key points for strength, and plenty of lightening cuts as you can easily see, but the thing that stood out to me is the buffer tube interface is an aluminum insert, so it's metal on metal contact instead of metal on plastic. I've heard (and seen in person on another poly receiver) that trigger pins have a tendency to try and walk out on polymer receivers, since the plastic doesn't offer the same press fit as an aluminum receiver. I imagine you probably couldn't beat on most of the poly lowers too hard, but for a shooting gun, can't beat the economy.
I have one I plan on using for a pistol build. It seems a solid setup and mine came with a 30rd pmag for 50 bucks.
Mine also came with pin locks that cap off the holes and prevent them from walking.
I did the same with my M14, various leaves from the yard, and a couple layers of color on top of a brown stock. It was a lot less difficult than I thought, you just have to sort of "think backwards" about the colors in the pattern, lol.
It's not a recent picture of her, but it's still representative of how it looks right now. Soon, though, when my back pay comes in, I suspect it will look more like this:
It's a tack driver too. When I installed the Smith Ent Gas Lock Front sight, it tightened the entire gas system down, and my groups went from 2" to sub 1" at 100 Yards. When I pick up the Blackfeather stock for it in the second picture, I'm going to further shim the gas system and really lock it down, then it's on to unitizing the gas block or just removing the stock collar, since I won't need it anymore. With a better optic, I should be able to wring 3/4 MOA out of it with Match ammo or handloads. And it's just a standard M1A, not even a loaded of NM... it just took a loving touch and the right parts
Kinda thinking a little about upgrading my ar15a3 and or pulling the trigger on a DPMS .308 evil assault rifle, but I'm not really sure I want to spend close to a grand when there are so many other things we could use. Box stock from Wally world, are the DPMS rifles any good?
If I do anything to my Box Stock Ar15A3 heavy barrel carbine (Model #6721 I THINK), I am wanting to do the following.
1. Add BUIS to take the place of the factory detachable carry handle/rear sight. Which ones should I look at. 2. Replace the factory hand guard for a new one with picatinny rails. 3. Add a vertical fore grip to the new hand guard. 4. Add a light to the rail or get one built into the fore grip.
Now like I said, this is a stock Colt carbine. What else should I consider/do to make it as dependable as it can be? I don't want flash/fancy gimmicks, just dependable functionality.
The 870 has a special finish not listed anyplace on the remington web site It has an extended mag tube, ghost rings, Knox nrs spec ops stock. The finish looks hammered and then it's coated in this strange gray&black coating. Reminds me of the coating you see on high performance car parts like brakes & engine components
If I do anything to my Box Stock Ar15A3 heavy barrel carbine (Model #6721 I THINK), I am wanting to do the following.
1. Add BUIS to take the place of the factory detachable carry handle/rear sight. Which ones should I look at. 2. Replace the factory hand guard for a new one with picatinny rails. 3. Add a vertical fore grip to the new hand guard. 4. Add a light to the rail or get one built into the fore grip.
Now like I said, this is a stock Colt carbine. What else should I consider/do to make it as dependable as it can be? I don't want flash/fancy gimmicks, just dependable functionality.
2, 3, and 4. Unless you're adding an optic, having folding BUIS won't do much for you except add precious seconds to deploying your rifle. But if there is a surefire (pun intended) way to enhance a bone stock rifle, it is adding a light and a way to muscle the weapon around. Since you're mounting a light, not a laser, you don't need a pricey rail kit. Even a cheap set of Tapcos or other Poly rail replacements would suit that purpose fine. Where you want to spend the coin is on the light. Don't cheap out, otherwise you'll get a light that goes dead when you need it. I am very partial to my Streamlight products, they have all proven very solid and easily adaptable to my weapons. My 5.56 AK is wearing a Streamlight PolyTac mounted in a scope ring, works perfectly, and is simple to employ. I've used Surefires before, but had issues with my old switch. As far as I know that issue has been resolved in recent iterations, however. There are some good options out there for relatively inexpensive, but Caveat Emptor if you buy it from CtD... it's all airsoft garbage IMNSHO
Kinda thinking a little about upgrading my ar15a3 and or pulling the trigger on a DPMS .308 evil assault rifle, but I'm not really sure I want to spend close to a grand when there are so many other things we could use. Box stock from Wally world, are the DPMS rifles any good?
Like any other AR manufacturer, I've heard good, and I've heard bad. I would be interested in a DPMS rifle myself if I had enough interest in getting an AR, but I doubt I ever will personally, though. I just can't afford to feed a second .308 right now, lol.
The carry handle is fine unless you want to add a red dot sight.
Then bang for the buck it's hard to beat the MagPul sights. I have a regular front sight on my working gun with a rear folding Troy battlesight. The only reason I got the battle sight was that I got a screaming deal on it around the holidays. Otherwise I wouldn't have shucked out $110 bucks for a rear sight.
A good light is definitely nice to have.
I will say if you want a rail for the handguard Look around. The biggest issue I see with the cheaper ones is they are heavy.
On my work gun I went simple. A MagPul MOE handguard Mine was $26 bucks and then added a rail and a light mount. Magpul has the MLOK MOE guards out now so you don't need the rail you can just attach the light mount and save cash and a little weight.
I tried a fore grip and I wanted to like them but I can't stand them and I gave mine away. It just didn't fit my style of grip and got in my way. On a semi-auto it wasn't worth the hassle.
For me I prefer simple and light. The less weight you have to hold up and hump around you will be faster, more accurate and less fatigued. I'm not worried about ultra light I usually get a standard barrel which isn't light. That's just a personal preference.
WOW, fast response. Right now I have a Pellet rifle scope on my AR. Yes, I said PELLET RIFLE! BUT it is rated for unlimited full auto fire! It's a 30mm Beeman SS4 scope that I love. The rifle (flat top of course) has the regular ar15/m16 front sight and the carry handle comes off with two thumb screws. It works fine for me before I got the scope but I just thought I could put the rear BUIS on it for "In Case".
My concern was finding the right "Rail" cause the regular hand guard on it isn't all that long. PLUS it attaches at the rear with a collett (?) ring that is spring loaded and holds on the guard. How do I go about finding the right size handguard?
Oh yeah and about the vertical fore grip. I'm not sure I would like one, never used one, but I thought what with everybody using them it was the way to go. Personally I too feel as if it would get in the way (for me at least).
The light, I have been thinking about Streamlight Tlr (or TLS, which ever it is) series.
So it sounds like I could get a good Tactical flashlight and mount it to the barrel ahead of the existing handguard, add a remote switch and I would be in business.
Hmmmm I REALLY like this option. The only reason I said a new handguard/rail was to primarily mount a light.
IF I do get one (Patty gave me the go ahead a while back) It will probably be one from Wally world. I think they are either $897 or $987. Don't know which ones they are.
HOLY SMOKE! Just looked at mags on the Magpul site. 30 rounders for 15 bucks! But the question is, to window or not to window. And 20 or 30 rounders? Heck didn't know they were that cheap.
HOLY SMOKE! Just looked at mags on the Magpul site. 30 rounders for 15 bucks! But the question is, to window or not to window. And 20 or 30 rounders? Heck didn't know they were that cheap.
5.56? That's kind of high for non window actually now if you can get the windowed ones for that go for it.
There are three hand guard lengths. Carbine, mid length, and rifle. If you get the magpul carbine if it's a carbine hand guard it will swap out no problem.
Probably a carbine length handgaurd then. It's standard across the industry, even with Colt having weird pin diameters, lol. Should drop in, no sweat. the MOE handgaurds install just like the standard handgaurds do, so unless you're getting a free float tube, it ought to be cake to put together.
Also, I love my Streamlight TLR-2s, for the record... I like having the option to use the strobe function, as well as the laser/light combo for fast hits. You would not be disappointed if you picked one up, but it does require a pic rail to mount. If you barrel mount, get an interface that goes to a picatinny.
They have a PTAC complete 308 lower for $180. You can get deals on the PSA uppers for around 300 and the BCG for 160 or so. Not sure about the PTAC lower, but I don't think it can be too horrible. The PSA lower is about 50 more.
I'd probably go that route. I have a few PSA lowers and nothing but positive things to say.
I should say usually for the wolf and bear I think they both make non bimetallic but it is roughly the same cost as some of the more well known brands at that point.
Site is a bit tricky. They ARE out of most uppers but will get them in eventually. If it were me, I'd grab the complete PSA/Magpul/Blackhawk lower for $240, the nickel boron BCG for $190, and hold tight until they get more uppers in or find another you like. Only negative I've found on their 308's is their receivers don't use the same parts kit as say DPMS--need to run PSA or PTAC parts kits in their stripped lowers. Since you are buying the lower flat out assembled, shouldn't be an issue.
I linked the fully assembled PTAC they have for sale for $700, but I'm not gonna vouch for it. PSA stuff seems to run great--PTAC is another company (shrouded in mystery, but supposedly PSA acquired them at some point--not sure). PTAC is the "budget" stuff. Not sure how their 308s are but I've read mixed reviews on the PTAC 223s. Triggers can be worked on, but you don't wanna buy a complete rifle only to have to replace the barrel....
Alternatively, I think they have the parts up you could build your own upper. But again, if it were me, I'd get the lower, get the BCG (NiB is a lot nicer than the standard phosphate), and hang out til they get more stuff.
Oh, and I would not hesitate to buy their "blem" stuff--not usually stuff you'll see and certainly won't impact they fit or function of the rifle. I picked up a couple of 223 blems and still can't figure out where the defects are.
The TLR-2s is amazing, but it really depends on if you feel you need the strobe to dominate a possible situation or not? I like having the feature on mine, but honestly couldn't tell you if it would even occur to me to use it in a fight. Perhaps on a surrendering perp, but during a firefight, I'm probably going to be lights out until I need to ID my target. But, on the other side of the coin, have you ever been strobed by a 150 Lumen lamp in a pitch black room? It's crazy disorienting. My buddy Jarrod even lost his balance and almost toppled during our testing (no firearms were involved, only flashlights.)
If you know someone who has a remote pad try before you buy. To me they are one of those things you like or you hate.
I go for simple and reliable. I have ripped off enough remote wires that I won't use them anymore. But a tail cap switch also fits my grip style more than a pressure pad.
One isn't better than the other its all personal preference.
If I could mount the light where I want (where my natural grip is on the forearm) I would just probably use the switch that comes on the light. But that would mean I would have to put a different handguard on it.
Runs about $70-75 and seems like a perfect solution to the light issue. Maybe next season for coyotes or if I can figure out how to mount it to my plastic Stevens stock 25-06 for spotlighting deer...
I NEED a 6.8SPC upper....no more "want" garbage Then I have a gun for all seasons--223 for varmints, 300BLK for tree stand deer and hogs (they'll be here in a couple years), and a 6.8 for bean field deer day or night
Who knew this was such a versatile platform? Took me long enough to come around
Ive been reading that H&R (Remington) will be discontinuing the manufacturing of Handi Rifle and Pardner single shot rifles and shotguns.
I picked up a couple rifles and a old shotgun over the last couple years along with a .270 barrel as they were an inexpensive way to hunt a few extra weeks as our primitive weapons hunting seasons allowed for them in caliber that are .35 and up. The hunting laws have changed so they are not required on private land any more. But I was still onboard as the single shot rifles still seemed to be a good option for new hunters/shooters who my not have any or very little experience or training with firearms. So while they aren't the lastest greatest fancy polymer trend I felt they were pretty good tools and every year they seemed to me to sell off the shelves right around hunting season. I did noticed that the price range fell right on top of the newer "budget" bolt rifles like the Ruger American and similar rifles but I would've figured the build quality yet simplicity of the Handi Rifle would have kelt it as a viable tool that survived and thrived in a category of its own. I guess it comes down to dollar signs though.
When I purchased my first Handi Rifle I was pretty happy to have a solid American product in my collection. I actually was looking forward to finding several other calibers in the line which would have allowed me fairly inexpensive alternatives for shooting calibers I already have.
my only issue with this setup would be I would be REALLY worried in a high stress situation I might accidentally pull the trigger I hadn't intended. I'd still get a flash, but with a bang and a zip... but I have quibbles with pointing a "loaded flashlight" at someone to begin with. Especially since I regularly train to shoot left handed effectively, I'm used to pulling triggers with both hands. I think for me, having a different method of light activation adds that extra measure of safety for a tenuous situation.
True, plus it'll accept most lights. I guess you wouldn't have to purchase a dedicated light for your rifles and could take it out and use it elsewhere when the carbine isn't in the cards.
A friend we go to church with just made me SO sick and mad. He picked up a DPMS ar15 with Magpul grip and buttstock and a fancy dancy hand guard. Paid $550.00. the bold doesn't even have any scratches on it!
Sounds like you've found yourself one of those Unicorns who can sniff out amazing deals. You need to buy that man a few beers! or whatever else suits him if fermented beverages aren't his thing.
Just PMed ya Randy--PSA stainless uppers with BCG for $449. Get a lower for $200 and you have a complete BRAND NEW STAINLESS AR10 for $650. I'd say THAT'S a heckuva deal too
Just PMed ya Randy--PSA stainless uppers with BCG for $449. Get a lower for $200 and you have a complete BRAND NEW STAINLESS AR10 for $650. I'd say THAT'S a heckuva deal too
Oh well I just found out to day I can get a complete drop in and shoot 7.62x39 locally for $400.00 on sale. Ammo is cheap, the guy said out to 2-300 (maybe) just about as good as .308 and ammo is a LOT cheaper. I hadn't really considered that before, I actually didn't think, know, imagine, realize or forgot you could get it in the AR.
haha, MB, they may be on sale, but they're also sold out, lolol... I'll drool, but until I have a lower to slap it on, I guess I'll just have to replace the keyboard when it shorts out from time to time.
hehe, I'll probably be doing the same, but I need an AR lower first, which is second chair to my M14 upgrade. I've got an AK in the shop at the moment too, getting outfitted with all kinds of goodies and the barrel threaded for 1/2x28. Didn't think it was going to be in the shop for three months though, but it is what it is.
I hear you guys. Heck, I don't have any trouble shooting a 12ga, but have forgone that in lieu of a 20. Why take extra recoil when you don't have to. I don't waterfowl hunt so way I see it i don't really need a 12. A 20 will do all I need.
I just sent an EMT to a guy for a used Rossi Ranch hand in 44 magnum If I like it then I will probably put a full stock on it and use it for a hiking/quad gun
I just sent an EMT to a guy for a used Rossi Ranch hand in 44 magnum If I like it then I will probably put a full stock on it and use it for a hiking/quad gun
I just sent an EMT to a guy for a used Rossi Ranch hand in 44 magnum If I like it then I will probably put a full stock on it and use it for a hiking/quad gun
Ah a Mares Leg! NICE.
Once I get it sorted out It will be my sasquatch gun
If it wasn't for the stupid stamp I would do a .357 ranch hand sbr. That would be a great little deer rifle in the swamps where I hunt. But instead I just picked up a second Handi Rifle in .357 and I'll probably cut the barrel down to 18" . While it's not as cool as the sbr would be I think it will be just as effective.
What do Y'all think of the Beretta CX4 9mm Carbine? Saw one at Wally world and was kinda impressed.
The prices went crazy on those things a while back. I thin it $899 but now they are under $600. The only reason I'd get te .45 is if it shared mags with something else I own. A Hi Point is around $250 and seems to be very similar feature wise. Otherwise there's the MPA Mac10/11 clones that will use hicap mags.
I have done a hadful of searches on semi auto pistol caliber carbines and I just haven't seen anything that makes me think one is league's better than the others. I do wish I had gotten a Vector Arms MP5 clone back when they were a lot cheaper. But my KelTec serves me just fine as a bullet hose so I can't say I'm missing anything.
Be careful guys, if you put the Mares Leg stub to your shoulder, you've remanufactured it as an SBR, and the ATF will kick down your door and eat you...
Talked to our Hometown Gun shop Thursday. IF he's got it right, I can trade in one of my pistols and get that Beretta CX4 for an additional 200-250. I'm really giving it serious consideration.
Be careful guys, if you put the Mares Leg stub to your shoulder, you've remanufactured it as an SBR, and the ATF will kick down your door and eat you...
Here in Canada it is classified as a non-restricted firearm (rifle to you you guys) Perfectly legal to slap a full stock on it and go hunting or hiking
If it wasn't for the stupid stamp I would do a .357 ranch hand sbr. That would be a great little deer rifle in the swamps where I hunt. But instead I just picked up a second Handi Rifle in .357 and I'll probably cut the barrel down to 18" . While it's not as cool as the sbr would be I think it will be just as effective.
Up here .357 mag is about half as expensive to shoot as 44 mag If I could have found a 357 I probably would have bought that instead of the 44 mag
on the plus side I already have a Marlin 1894 in 44 mag
And I must confess, I bought a leather holster for it as well
NO it doesn't. I am trying to be realistic in my weapon choices. Based upon our terrain and general lines of fire in this area. PLUS being a rural area with lots of houses and other assorted buildings the distance will not really be that great if ever needed to be called upon. PLUS with magazines of 17 or 20 rounds, heck even 30, you can put down a lot of hurt.
But I am having difficulty finding a reasonably priced 9mm round that is over 1200 fps in 124 grains.
Thanks Spidy. I saw a review of that by Hickock 45. I did some research and decided I wanted to go the Beretta route. I THINK sturdier gun and I just like the looks of the CX4 Storm.
Got the .375 in late 1983 and my .300 in early '83. still have them both and hunt with them both. Though the Sako .308 sees the most time with me these days.
Just in case you guys need any work I have been a apprentice gunsmith with Daves Metal Works for the past year and a half. We mostly work on 1911 glock and smith revolvers. I did the Kimber on the knives and guns thread on the Busse forum check it out pm me if you want to see more of my work or follow me on instagram Avalenz83
He's supposed to be ordering it for me. What with Patty and I being sick I haven't checked back, but I need to call him.
Look forward to hearing what you think of it. Looks a lot of fun and a great back up weapon for the misses too. After Sandy Hook, that became illegal here in CT.
The way it looks now I won't be able to get one that uses the Beretta 92/96 mags. They only have the ones that accept the Beretta PX4 mags. I can deal with that although I would rather have the other mag version. No biggie, long as I get it.
1. Sparc II red dot sight. 2. A dozen magazines (eventually). 3. 124gr. Plus P ammo. 4. MOLLE vest as a magazine carrier platform.
Sounds good to me! What the capacity on the mags you'll get?
I just got new grips for my CZ 75's. The Compact got aluminum ones from CZ and the full size got VZ grips. I like them both a lot! The full size came with plastic ones which were fine but cheaper than the pistol deserves and the Compact comes with rubber grips that feel fantastic but are thick. The aluminum grips really thin it out and puts the trigger in much easier reach.
Rich, I plan on the 20 round mags for this. Figure for the same price why not carry and extra three rounds per mag. Also I am thinking about these mag carriers:
Those CZ's are lookin nice! I think that we now officially have another convert. Praise the Lord! Seriously Rich, I AM glad to see you are taking an active response to having the ability and skill to protect yourself and your loved ones.
For me, my range time means no responsibilities for the kiddos or anyone else...just relaxing time solo shooting the breeze with folks at the range and trying to improve my shooting.
This is close to what I want to eventually wind up with. Just imagine a white light where the vertical fore grip is, OR If I get real rich, a white light on the right side rail and a laser on the left side. And a Sparc II instead of the scope on it.
What sling do Y'all recommend. I think I would like at least a two point sling.
Got the .375 in late 1983 and my .300 in early '83. still have them both and hunt with them both. Though the Sako .308 sees the most time with me these days.
For all my semi handguns I have 6 mags for each one. I think it came from my road days. I ALWAYS carried a double mag pouch and one in the gun made three. With six I could swap them out every once in a while.
Now with the Storm, two of the 6 mag carriers would give me more than enough. Two 5 rounders would be fine, but for just a buck or two more why not get the six packs! I actually think that the 8 mag pouches would be to wide. And who knows, when I start putting the carrier system together I may just decide that two 3 mag pouches would be enough. But hey, EVERYBODY wishes they had more ammo!
I was only supposedd to go fishing today. Decided to take a couple rods back to the store and walked out with a M&P 9mm. The CORE version that's made to accept red dots! Was marked down $200 and was $100+ less after taxes than if I got one of line. And to make it sweeter S&W has a rebate for 3 free magazines!
I have been wanting a M&P 9mm to replace the .40 I sold off a few years back. I actually wanted the CORE version but for they tacked on an extra $200 more than I was willing to pay. I had a girft card with almost $300 on it I needed to get rid of so the whole thing worked out perfect. Heck, I even just put in the overtime last week to cover the rest of the price .
Good deal lazi! I got my Beretta storm today. Cost me $268.00 counting the tax! Oh and a pistol I bought in 1997 that cost me $265.00! (plus a 150.00 trade in)
I think I came out OK. I thought I paid more for the gun I traded in, but I found the receipt!
Pasta or marinara, either one will work. Oh and Olive oil is actually the preferred lube. No red residue and it runs like it was operating on ball bearings!
It came in on Wednesday but Kris lost my phone number. Thursday we took the Grand Daughter to see HOME and got back late so I just picked it up Friday. Haven't really looked at it yet, that will come tonight at work.
OK, things have slowed down and I have been looking at my new toy. (I've also ordered a couple things, a side rail and stock spacers). I also found out why they included a magazine loading tool.
Now to get started choosing the rest of the goodies I'm gonna need.
Initial impressions are that's it's pretty nice. Short (longest it can get is 31.5 inches with three spacers, shortest just over 29.5) with NO spacers. Light weight, nice balance. Comes apart by just drifting out one "Pin" and sliding the upper and lower apart. I actually wish the sights were mounted a little higher. I am gonna have to do some adjusting to my "Normal" cheek weld and figure out how come the front sight looks "Bent" when I am sighting through the peep rear. It's NOT bent, just the way my glasses/eye is perceiving it.
It's got about 95 safeties on it so it shouldn't go off unless you pull the trigger. Chrome lined barrel 16.6 inches long. Weight 5.75 pounds UNLOADED.
It is COMPLETELY ambidextrous. You can make it eject to the right or left. Move the charging handle to the left or right along with the magazine release and I THINK it said you can change the safety to work backwards to us Righties as well.
So far I think that I am gonna like it (I BETTER) but as they say, the "Proof is in the pudding". We'll see once I actually am able to get out and shoot for a bit.
Hope it meets your expectations, Randy. I'm glad you're liking it so far.
The company I work for gave us all Yeti Roadie coolers for reaching a safety milestone. They look big from the outside, but, due to the tons of insulation, it ends up being a heavy, 20 quart lunch kit on the inside. I appreciate the gift, but I already have several coolers that are good enough and I don't need to keep my lunch cold for a week.
I took it to Bass Pro Shops and exchanged it for a $270 ($239.99 plus tax) store credit (gift card). I was hoping to find a Ruger 10/22 with a 20" barrel and no barrel band, but all of theirs had barrel bands. Hopefully I can go there one day and find the one I want.
$270.00 FOR A COOLER! OUCH! Well I guess for some folks.
Yeah I hemmed and hawed around thinking about this and that and came to the following conclusions.
1. I have a for all practical purposes a still new Colt AR15 that has had less than 200 rounds through it.
2. I have a 308 hunting rifle for longer distance if needed (Remington 600 Mohawk). Yes I know it's a hunting rifle but it's a tack driver.
3. I have assorted shotguns, including two "Tactical" Weatherby TRS shotguns. Yes they are only 20ga but at the distances I will be dealing with a 20 will work as well as a 12, same as for the 308.
4. I have several pistols and revolvers for constant "On body carry".
5. This Beretta (CX4 Storm) will I feel fulfill the "close encounters of the bad kind" quite nicely and do it, if needed all the way out to 100 yards. But mostly it will allow for a good, hi-cap "House" gun that can be used pretty much for any distance on our block.
My choices may not be what the "Mainstream" Gun Guru's suggest, but I feel for us they are more than adequate for the way we will use them in our AOR. Feel free to comment/critique.
As I said, this is just for us and quite probably would be different for others.
I'm sure some folks would have said Well OK, but you SHOULD have gone with 40 cal at least. Yeah it probably would have been better, but I can get 20 round mags for this one for $37.00 or less PLUS the ammo is cheaper to boot! That means I can buy more of it.
I have already made One discovery. I think I messed up on buying a couple stock spacers. When I shouldered it and got a sight picture the front sight appeared to me to lean to one side. It doesn't though. Come to find out I was to far back for the peep sight and when I got closer to the rear peep it straightened right up and actually got sharper for me.
I found a small company that makes a kit that increases the mag capacity to either 15 or 16 rounds. You can purchase a complete magazine from them for $180. Yikes! And the mag looks like it is about 18 inches long. I'll pass.
I'd like to put a Mech Tech conversion on a double stack 1911 frame. I think I'd prefer the 1911 frame over the glock frame on a carbine for the better trigger and manual safety. Unfortunately I can't find any frames. Best I can find is a complete Rock Island pistol for less than $500.
I am gonna have to do some adjusting to my "Normal" cheek weld and figure out how come the front sight looks "Bent" when I am sighting through the peep rear. It's NOT bent, just the way my glasses/eye is perceiving it.
I'm trying to locate the article I remember reading that explained why photons do weird things like that (I think the overall concept was on why the lunar eclipse appears to kiss it's shadow just before the complete eclipse begins or something like that). Anyway, possible reasons why may be astigmatism and the fact that you're focusing through a tiiiiny aperture. I noticed I had the same issue with the FS2000 rear sight, and that aperture was so small I could barely see the front post. My M14 I don't have that issue with, and same goes for my issue M4, so perhaps having a smithy drill out the aperture for a slightly larger one may resolve your issue. I'll do more research and see if I can find out why exactly that actually happens
*edit* seems you figured out how to resolve it yourself, lol. Still, might be cool to know why that actually happens, will keep looking
I dig it Randy, glad you pulled the trigger on it. The pistol caliber carbines I've had the pleasure of shooting are great. Recoil is so negligible it's sorta hilarious how easy they are to control, especially if you choke up on them.
ECF, I do have an astigmatism which might be part of the problem. I also think that drilling it out larger would help and actually thought about that. I'll make my final determination once I've actually shot it some. My "Stock Crawler" fix might get the job done. Oh and Patty was sorta kinda impressed with it.
NOW all I gotta do is finally figure out what kind of optics to put on it. I am leaning toward two. The Vortex SPARC II or the spitfire for it's etched reticule that can been seen even if the battery fails, as long as there is sufficient light on the target.
1. Side rail ------ ordered 2. Stock spacers -- ordered 3. 20 round mags -- ordered (2 so far) 4. Ammo ----------- on hand (800 rounds of mixed)still researching actual "carry" ammo, but I think I have settled on 124gr +P. 5. Optics --------- still researching. 6. White light ---- Still researching.
I've decided that I am going to skip the vertical fore grip. It would just add to much bulk for my likes.
Man, and I thought Christmas toys for the Grand Kids were expensive!
I think that I have settled on the Streamlight TLR 1 HL.
Not a fan of the mech tech either. Its a niche gun/accessory. 500 bucks for an "upper" receiver for a glock or a 1911. 400 for the upper then another 35 for a stock adapter then the stock.
That and whether or not it makes the pistol frame questionable as an SBR when its converted back to a pistol on the whim of the ATF.
Actually I have about 1000 rounds of 9mm. BUT about 800 is lead reloads. BUT they should do for target practice and will at least give me trigger time until I buy "The Good Stuff". I'm thinking real hard about Remington Golden Sabres. Yeah I know there are better rounds out there, but I have used the Remington loads off and on several times over the years and liked them. Sides they aren't as expensive as the "Super" loads and that will allow for more ammo!
I was checking the gun out last night at work and found out that the take down pin has a metal (round) shaped spring that fits into detentes inside the lower so that should be ok. Also the mag release is plastic, BUT has a metal insert that actually holds the magazines in the weapon. I had thought about reversing the mag release so that I can activate it with my trigger finger. I'll have to shoot is left handed some and see if my finger causes it to accidentally activate. If it doesn't I might just very well reverse it.
Not a fan of the mech tech either. Its a niche gun/accessory. 500 bucks for an "upper" receiver for a glock or a 1911. 400 for the upper then another 35 for a stock adapter then the stock.
That and whether or not it makes the pistol frame questionable as an SBR when its converted back to a pistol on the whim of the ATF.
Not many options for us .45 guys, besides those butt-ugly Hi-Points.
And that point you made about the atf is precisely why I'm only getting a completed 1911 frame. I don't own any other 1911 parts.
Spidy: I saw something on the Sierrapapa site about an adapter or something that would allow you to use Beretta cougar mags (45acp) in the Cx4 Storm. They said something about 14-15 round capacity.
Those might've been the ones I was telling you about before. It sounded good, until I saw them and the price. I was disappointed because I would prefer the Beretta.
Well you could always go 40 or 9mm. I really like the 45, but the 9mm with 20 round mags the way I see us using it if ever needed would work fine I think.
I thought I was going to trim down my collection because I had too many calibers. Since then I have added more than I got rid of. There were just some deals I didn't want to pass on.
Now I,m just try to fll certain roles a best I can. I don't think I need to add any new caliber s but I guess if I had to a good long range caliber (600+ yds) and maybe some sort of high velocity varminting caliber are the only two calibers I should even look at.
I think I'm down to 22 long, 22 lr, 380 acp, 357 mag, 44 mag, 45 acp, 5.56, .257 wby mag, 308, 300 h&h mag, 410, 20 ga, and 12 ga. I could probably get rid of the 380 and 357. Everything else I consider necessary or sentimental.
Now I,m just try to fll certain roles a best I can. I don't think I need to add any new caliber s but I guess if I had to a good long range caliber (600+ yds) and maybe some sort of high velocity varminting caliber are the only two calibers I should even look at.
You thinking something specialized for these, or something more rounded. I tend to lean toward more rounded so I would go 7mm rem mag and 22-250. Just my personal preference.
Now I,m just try to fll certain roles a best I can. I don't think I need to add any new caliber s but I guess if I had to a good long range caliber (600+ yds) and maybe some sort of high velocity varminting caliber are the only two calibers I should even look at.
You thinking something specialized for these, or something more rounded. I tend to lean toward more rounded so I would go 7mm rem mag and 22-250. Just my personal preference.
I'm leaning towards .300wm for the 600+ capable rifle. In particular I'm wanting a CZ UHR with a composite stock that I can top with the Swarovski 2.5-15x56 scope I bought a while back. This should cover the top end of anything I could want to shoot out to way past where I could want to shoot it.
I really don't do any sort of varminting so it's just another rifle to get I guess lol... The Savage 116 caught my eye as I don't have anything stainless in my collection. But a varmint rifle is actually pretty low on the list. I would probably look at something like 22-250 or .243 if I get serious about it.
Well I got in 2 20 round mags for my CX4 Wednesday, AND a water bottle carrier I ordered from Amazon in FEBRUARY! They didn't indicate they were out when I ordered and I got all the rest of my order in a week. I contacted them and they apologized and said they would send it to me NEXT DAY at no cost to me because of their mistake once it was back in stock. THEY DID!
Well I'm getting there. CX4 "Wish List" The quest continues!
1. Side rail ------ ordered 2. Stock spacers -- ordered 3. 20 round mags -- ON HAND! 4. Ammo ----------- on hand (800 rounds of mixed)still researching actual "carry" ammo, but I think I have settled on 124gr +P. 5. Optics --------- still researching. 6. White light ---- Streamlight TLR1 HP (Not yet ordered) I don't have Tom's money!
Ultimately I THINK I would like a white light, the afore mentioned Streamlight and a laser on the opposite side. We will see.
The other Picatinny side rail and the stock spacers are due to arrive today. I'll be glad to get the other side rail on and I am just going to add one spacer and see how it feels.
Still haven't decided on whether I should get a red dot reflex sight or a red dot scope type sight. Decisions decisions. I think that I have decided on the VORTEX line though. Research I've done shows them to be quite rugged and well built, they are affordable, plus they have a Busse Warranty!
Vortex seems to making some good products. I only have the older discontinued 2-7 scope but I am really happy with it. So much I think it will stay on my SCAR. When looking for options for a red dot for my M&P I noticed they make a nice little sight and even use the M&P in their advertisements.
I also have always intended to snag a Strikefire to play with but just never picked one up.
Hey lazi, yeah I am bouncing back and forth between one of the Reflex sights and the Spitfire. I like the Reflex sights for the looks ease of use and the Spitfire for the etched reticle that allows it to bee seen if you have enough ambient light.
Ray, yes the HPL is bigger, but it is also 40 dollars cheaper and it's BRAND NEW! It now resides on the left side rail. It allowes me to do the momentary and constant on and strobe with my thumb.
NO, it's not the one I wanted, but like I said at 40 less I can deal with it. And boy does it throw a long beam! Not real sure about the side spill light yet, haven't had a chance to use it in a black out situation, but I might turn off the lights in the office and see what happens.
1. Side rail ------ two installed 2. Stock spacers -- not installed and not really needed. 3. 2 20 round mags -- ON HAND! (2 twenties and 2 seventeens) 4. White light ---- Streamlight TLR1s HPL--- Installed 5. Ammo ----------- on hand (800 rounds of mixed)still researching actual "carry" ammo, but I think I have settled on 124gr +P. Right now have corbon 124gr +P loaded in the mags. 5. Optics --------- still researching.
Well kiss my patootie! The light I got from the deputy is a TLR-1s HP NOT the HPL! No wonder it didn't seem to have the side spill I expected. He's getting it back.
I hope the new release comes soon. The play money I set aside for the ZT 0452 is burning a hole in my pocket. I started eyeballing revolvers this weekend thinking I need one also!
Saw a review of the Ruger LCRx 3" that caught my eye then started thinking of looking for an old Dan Wesson 4" in 357.
I also have always intended to snag a Strikefire to play with but just never picked one up.
I have the strikefire on my home defense shotgun and it works flawlessly. It has been on my AR for about 3 years and on that one for almost a year now with plenty of rounds through both.
Well I told the Deputy that the light I got from him wasn't the one (TLR-1 HPL) he said he had. The HP didn't give enough side spill for me but it was lighting up road signs over a block away so bright you almost thought the reflection was from the Sun!
Any way I sent him a message explaining it to him and he said he would tear up the check no problem. I knew he would, but dang it I wanted a light on there NOW! Oh well, at least now I'll have the one I wanted. Now to settle on optics.
I think I am gonna run Federal HST loads through the CX4. I am wanting to get the 147 grain, but the 124 would work ok. I sent Federal an email asking what the ballistics would be for each load out of a 16.6 inch barrel. We will see if they respond and what they say.
They are in the same spot GD just a smaller housing and removed the on button from the side.
Sorry I haven't been around much, my left hand got a ring lighter and I have been dealing with that. Luckily it seems I will be able to keep all my lead and steel.
Got my TLR-1 HL in and installed on the Beretta. I'm gonna really like this thing. $115.00 SHIPPED. Now the search continues for optics, but as I said earlier, no hurry on that.
Now Spidey, ya gotta remember all those unfortunate folks in New Yark and Kalifornia and Ill e noise that can't have anything dangerous cause they ain't like us ig nor ant red necks. They's enlightened and know guns is evil.
I don't know why but I really want a new inexpensive "bullet hose" type of firearm. But of the handful of firearms I could stand to add to my collection none of them really fall under that category. Sort of frustrating.... Lol!
I think if I claim that in going to do a target build with my current 10/22 then I can maybe justify a new tactical .22lr rifle. I've been looking at the .22lr MP5 clones. Specifically the H&K marketed Walther built MP5 A5 rifle. I think that's the rifle I always wanted my 10/22 to be. For a long time I didn't take any of the .22 clones seriously many of them seem to have huge replica magazines and lots of extra plastic for no good reason. I think the H&K may be a bit over built but in the reviews it seems quality and appearance rather than just for the sake of appearance. It might even make for a sweet sbr project down the road.
OK on to guns I am thinking of picking this one up next week.
I had the all black edition and liked it a lot now this stainless just looks bad [censored] and I have been missing the one I had so why not.
Nice! Looks like a 686. What's the tag on one?
I traded my EAA .357 a while back as I planned to get a nicer .357 at some point. I was leaning towards a 8 round S&W but the price tag is a bit steep. But I think I may just grab a Ruger 357/9 convertible and see if I still have the bug a year or two down the road.
OK on to guns I am thinking of picking this one up next week.
I had the all black edition and liked it a lot now this stainless just looks bad [censored] and I have been missing the one I had so why not.
Nice! Looks like a 686. What's the tag on one?
I traded my EAA .357 a while back as I planned to get a nicer .357 at some point. I was leaning towards a 8 round S&W but the price tag is a bit steep. But I think I may just grab a Ruger 357/9 convertible and see if I still have the bug a year or two down the road.
It is under 300 out the door, pretty hard to beat at that price.
I stopped in at my gunsmiths to see the miracle he's managed to work on my 5.56 SLR-106F since I dropped it there a couple months ago. It's been a long wait, nut it's starting to come together like I never would have imagined. I'll be playing with my toy and burning through some of this steel cased ammo I've been stocking up on soon... So soon......
I'll post pics of the old version and the new version as soon as it's done
Stumbled into a Rock River complete carbine lower with their match trigger for $200. Now to start another build. I also am not the proud owner of a g17 and g19. Both the RTF 2 LAV editions!
I am also the proud owner... How the heck does my phone decide to include a "not" in that hahaha I also managed to get some blazer brass target ammo for 10.99 a box. At that price I had to get 3 boxes of 9mm and 2 of .40s&w
Totally accidental, I was to far into my squeeze and swing to stop as the cross hairs came to the tree, as the rifle went off I knew what was going to happen, even saw the strike on the bark. Despite missing the hog it was a cool thing to a point.
Figured the FA versions were issued to our Aussie brethren in need if a SMG?
The Sterling SMG is one of the very best SMGs produced in the world (for military uses), New Zealand bought them but we here in Australia have always gone our own way with SMGs, years of jungle fighting saw use favour a TOP loading magazine design that started with the Owen Machine Carbine in WW2 and then lead to the F1 SMG in the 60s (we took both to Vietnam). The F1 only move on in the 80s when the F88 replaced everything (M16, SLR and F1).
F1 SMG...
... you will see some SLR influences in there (they were made at SAF Lithgow )and it uses the Sterling magazine. I have sent over lots of F1 magazine pouches to the US as I was able to find them because the Sterling owners crave them...
We did make limited use of the L5 (supressed) Sterling here, but in numbers well under 100.
The MP5 was (well is) the choice of SF types needing an SMG for black work and CPP duties.
Back in the 90's I had a Class 3 collection (legal full autos). My Class 3 Dealer / Friend had both an Austen and Owen. His Owen still had the green camo paint on it. Of course, he also had Thompsons, Stens, Madsens, Berettas, S&W 76s, Uzis, MP5s, MP38 and 40, MACs, American 180s, PPSH, M16s, BAR, 1919, Sturmgwehr, AR18, M2 Carbine, and many more. The gun he liked best was that Owen. It was an odd SMG, but UBER rare and he coveted it.
When he died in the early 2000's his wife turned his collection over to a known friend to liquidate. I never heard, but I estimate his collection was worth $200k then and closer to $450k now.
Going to his house was like the best gun show / museum / experience ever.
Lancaster, MG34, and a formidable number of suppressed weapons.
My first time over to buy my first class three....he had six of his MP5 variants sitting on a pool table for me to look at. I couldn't afford those. I bought a $1600 MK760.
Yes the Owen is unusual at the start for anyone not familiar with it. During WW2 it gained great popularity with the Diggers for its function in the jungle (they were also issued Thompsons). An interesting and little known fact is that the US placed a very large order for Owens (in .45ACP) late in the war. Due to the politics between Lysaghts (who made the Owen) and the established military (and SAF Lithgow) the order was not passed along quickly and as a result production never commenced prior to the end of the Pacific campaign.
The Austen was "the systems" answer to the need for an SMG and is essentially a STEN with a MP40 type folding stock. It was NEVER popular with the Diggers who generally looked upon it with disdain. At the end of WW2 they were all withdrawn while the Owen soldiered on to Korea and Vietnam. The Z Specials did make use of the supressed Austens in some of their training and raids however.
A close friend of mine in the US has a great collection of C3 stuff that includes a Carl Gustav M45 and a SW76. The M45 is probably my FAVOURITE SMG to shoot !!!!!
Well, I was finally able to get to the range and try out my 300 Blackout pistol. It seemed a bit louder than a rifle but not all that different. It was very comfortable to shoot from a rest and extremely accurate also. I want to build a .458 Socom next if I can convince myself that I need one. After all, I have some knife money that I am not using at the moment.
I went with a RECCE rifle build. 16in 410 SAMR barrel from BCM 15 KMR rail from BCM Vltor MUR LanTac enhanced BCG Axts raptor charging handle. Rock River carbine lower with match trigger. I plan on upgrading the stock, grip, selector, and pins.
Ran like a top! The modifications shifted quite a bit of the weight rearward, so the rifle points much more quickly now. The Tritium sights I had installed act like a Ghost ring but the two rear tritium dots make it very easy to center the front sight post in the middle of the aperture. I was shooting about 1" groups at 25 Yards at night without a clean image of the front sight tip. I expect it will tighten up considerably during the day when the front sight post is more than a green dot :P
Here is the link to an article written by Larry Correia (author of Monster Hunter International and other "Action" Books. It is HIS thoughts on gun control.
Was a impulse purchase... I watched a couple reviews and they liked them. Supposed to be pretty accurate and we'll made.
I have a 10/22 in a "tactical" stock may by ATI but it was never quite the right flavor of tactical or me. I think I'll set it up with a peep sight and stick it in a Hogue stock and leave it at that. Even though it's only 15 rounds I think the MIG22 will be my "tactical" plinker.
Got it on sale for $524 shipped to my FFL. THey have a complete 458 SOCOM for $600 + shipping...sooooo tempting....
Maybe someday I'll get a SOCOM upper. Then I can pair it with my 300BLK upper and have a modern semi-auto version of two classic cowboy rounds 300BLK is often compared to the 30-30 in its power, trajectory and ballistics, and the 458 SOCOM shooting a 325 ballistic tip Hornady has about the same effective range and arc as a guide gun out to 200 yards. Anything heavier or past that is where the 45-70 wins.
Had a melonited 16" free floated 300BLK upper with quad rail that I paired with a basic Palmetto State Armory lower and an AIM Surplus Nickel Boron BCG that I sold for $625. leaving me about $100 after paying for the Grendel. I then sold off one of my (many) Vortex dots and a magnifier, that put me within $125 of this when it was on sale for $399 including BCG and charging handle plus a $10 off coupon!):
That one is paired with a PSA lower with an FDE BCM Stock and grip. My goal is to eventually replace the chunky quad rail for a lighter FDE hybrid or keymod rail for it. I havea a Vortex Diamondback 3-9x40 for it and, since I plan to make this a multipurpose weapon, intend to eventually mount a small red dot on top and possibly a laser on the side.
Plan to use it mostly as a tree stand gun for deer.
Still on the fence with my impulse buy. It's well made but I think I got myself more of a target rifle than I was thinking. They claim .700 groups at 50 yards or better right out the box. So I will probably do a target scope and bipod and leave it at that. If it shoots good the well worth the $200 imho.
I think next up is a PSA 9mm AR15. They have the lowers on sale to where it would be $490 to do a complete rifle. But I'm thinking I can just get the lower and a couple mags and try to wait out a sale price on the uppers.
Talking about .22lr... While I don't know much on the subject it seems a .700 or better @ 50 yards is a pretty good group. I'd be happy with squirrel and bunny sniper.
I really did know so I did a little "e"search on .22lr accuracy after you mentioned ii. It seems .500 @ 50 is about as good as one should expect without some tweaking and $$$.
The designer says it's built as more of a target rifle. It is well built but also quite quirky. I wouldn't recommend anybkdy should buy one because it will most likely be a b!+@# to find parts for down the line. Right now they don't even have magazines available other than a polymer one that doesn't seem to have worked for anyone.
For $200 I'm not disappointed but I probably could've done something better with the $$$.
The wife and I were at Wally world today and somehow the conversation gravitated to guns and the Government. Being the fine upstanding law abiding citizen I am I told her I have been looking as suppressors and Could get my 10/22 threaded for a suppressor but then I really needed a 9mm can for my Beretta CX4. She said to get them and when I told here the total cost she said to just get one at a time.
Well I guess that means I CAN get one (or 2), but I just have to make myself turn loose of the bucks (I'm pretty tight in that department when it comes to buying MY toys). Ideally I would like a 10-22 TD (as Y'all have convinced me I should get).
Now I know UTG doesn't have a reputation for quality like Surefire or Streamlight but they seem to be trying to put out products at a higher level than their airsoft stuff. Any way, I like the variable light level from 20 to 700 lumens and the package includes a mount and a tape switch for about $85. I'll post pics when I get it.
I got the streamlight after trying out an HPL. BUT I went with just the HP as it has more of a spill beam instead of a spotlight beam. I'm quite happy with it.
I was going to ask you what you ended up with. Have you tried yours indoors? I am concerned with having too much light inside a room. Would that be a problem?
I would like to get a 9mm suppressor some day. I'd probably get one to handle .22lr as well. Plus I have a couple .357 rifles that I think would be pretty sweet suppressed.
If wasn't for the tax I'd do the paper work. If it wasn't for the paperwork I'd maybe be willing to pay the tax. But all the crap it takes to get one just makes no sense. Still it certainly makes sense to have one.
Nah this is going on my 20in barreled DMR rifle. The latest build is getting my Aimpoint pro or Leupold MK AR 1-4x24 for 3 gun. Someday it might get a better 1-4 or 1-8 power scope but I got plenty of glass for now.
I will try to send pics to randy or greaser when I'm done both build are almost perfected. I'm not sure what I will do with te fast fire 3 yet. It would work on either of my shotgun or as a secondary optic for my DMR gun or it would be nice on my Ruger gunsite scout rifle. It's the 3moa dot model. I'm getting the XTR II plus the PEPR mount and fast fire three with low profile picitiny mount for $1248. Which is bad but that before my 10% off discount code and my 5% off discount code and the $100 rebate from burris. So I'm getting a really darn good deal on it all
I was going to ask you what you ended up with. Have you tried yours indoors? I am concerned with having too much light inside a room. Would that be a problem?
Originally Posted by Ray Settanta
I was going to ask you what you ended up with. Have you tried yours indoors? I am concerned with having too much light inside a room. Would that be a problem?
I really like the light I have. YES it is bright indoors, but by being behind the light it isn't really all that bad. Don't get me wrong, it will mess up your night vision, but it will also mess up HIS even more. PLUS if you hit him with the strobe it is VERY disorienting. And with the spill light, I really think it is a very good weapons light.
Well my better belt got here quick and man is it nice I can see it lasting a lifetime if taken care of its got the right amount of stiffness and holds my xd45 fully loaded in a hybrid holster with no problem at all.
Well Patty had a scope ran down into her stomach and they removed an abnormal growth. The Sheriff's (my boss, guy I went to school with) son is the clinic administrator. He stopped by and being a gun and knife nut we got to talking. He is the one that sells Huntertown Arms Suppressors. One thing led to another and before I knew it Patty told him (after he told me the price he would sell it to me for) to order it. He said he had one coming in next week and when it arrived we would do the transaction and paperwork. SO I reckon in a few months (HOPEFULLY) I will own one of these.
Gotta be ready for the Zombies! And we all know they are drawn to noise, so I figure you should make as little noise as possible as you do your part to end the Zombie Apocalypse.
Been watching youtube videos about how to lighten the trigger pull on your Buckmark. ALL you have to do is flip the sear spring upside down, which moves the long arm from the right to the left. Just watch a video and you'll understand. Supposed to lighten the pull by almost 50 percent.
Well, I just ordered a 9mm AR lower from PSA. I have been looking at it for a week now. I kept tossing the numbers around and they just work. $187 shipped with the hammer and adapter block. The block alone runs $100 + shipping.
I'll probably get some mags and ammo next month and just wait to see if PSA ever does a sale on the uppers.
Yup, I figure having the upper will help at some point ...
But this is a pretty low priority firearm. I'm leaving the greastest single expense for last or until I just feel like funding it. Mags should be relatively nexpensive so I'll spend a little time finding those and the ammo could be used elsewhere. If I'm splitting the cost up I figure I might as well wait and see if I can save a few coins on the upper.
I could also take out the 9mm mag block a go another caliber upper. Maybe a .300BO upper in a year so...
Whether you’re preparing for the military or police academy or just out for a recreational activity, going to a shooting range can be a stress-relieving adventure. Believe it or not, the benefits of participating in shooting sports can improve your health both physically and mentally.
Here are the top 10 health benefits of going to a shooting range:
Builds physical discipline: In an age of the “couch potato,” this sport can help build many physical disciplines that are not only healthy but enjoyable. Increased strength, stamina, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills are just a few of the physical disciplines acquired in the shooting sports that apply, not only to this sport, but to all of life.
Arm strength: Shooting a gun requires strong, sturdy arms and hands; in order to aim and shoot your target you must keep your hands and arms steady.
Focus: Keeping your eyes on the target while aiming a gun requires a lot of focus. Removing your mind from any other activities, you find yourself in the present moment in which there is only one thing at hand to do, and it straight in front of you.
Eyesight: Practicing your shooting cdan’t fix any eye deficiencies, but it can exercise the eye capabilities that you already have. By giving your eyes a break from staring at computers, TVs, phones and tablets, you will be relieving this eye stress.
Increases mental discipline: To the surprise of many, shooting sports are primarily mental sports. Experienced marksmen think sport shooting is 90% mental. Concentration levels are sharpened and expanded. Multiple problem solving activities involving logic, mathematics and creative thinking (thinking “outside the box”) are needed and employed to succeed at any level of the shooting sports.
Advances personal responsibility: Personal responsibility is taught throughout the shooting sports to advance both safety and skill development. Shooting sports also cultivate personal responsibility because they are a foundation for both security and liberty in any family or nation.
Promotes liberty: Shooting sports provide a natural environment to educate all citizens with an historically honest view of freedom. It is no mistake that the tools mastered in the shooting sports have been called “the people’s liberty teeth.” This is one of the reasons the Second Amendment in America’s Bill of Rights was adopted.
Courage and confidence: For some people, shooting may seem like a very dangerous or scary thing to do. However, being trained properly is a great way to build confidence and courage.
Adrenaline: Hold a weapon and firing it can be an exhilarating thing to do! Your adrenaline will be spiked and causing a surge of energy to pulse through your blood. Increased levels of adrenalin in your blood signal your liver to break down glycogen, the substance that provides your muscles with glucose, the primary source of fuel in your body.
Physical balance: Remaining perfectly still in your shooting stance while aiming your gun at the target exercises your core muscles, which supports proper posture. When the abdominal muscles are weak, the lower back holds additional pressure and weight from simple daily tasks like walking. Strengthening the abdominal muscles allows the weight of the upper body to be evenly distributed over the front and back, improving balance.
Read our article on the Top 10 Health Benefits of Hunting
I am SO glad that I discovered (OK, REMEMBERED) I have a Browning Buckmark. I can get a 5.5 inch Tactical Solutions Fluted barrel for $180.00 (the threaded version). Pistol will then be Suppressor compatible AND from what I have been reading, more accurate.
I can get the integral accessory rail (includes a mounted rear sight) for $70.00.
SO for $250.00 or less I can have a host pistol for my suppressor Vs the cost of another entire weapon. Sounds like a Win Win to me. Oh and I can get an adapter for the 10/22 for $35.00!
AND I found out how to lighten the trigger pull just by turning the sear spring upside down and how to remove the magazine cut off spring.
Randy, you think about getting a 45 suppressor? You could use it on you 9mm and on a 45 too if you have one or want one in the future (or a 40mm or 357 SIG, or...)
greaser, did you jump on that 459 SOCOM? Interested in seeing it in action. Too bad the price is up now. Now way I could pay for a full price one...although maybe could get an upper someday..
Randy, you think about getting a 45 suppressor? You could use it on you 9mm and on a 45 too if you have one or want one in the future (or a 40mm or 357 SIG, or...)
Hadn't thought about that DT. To me, the perfect suppressed weapon would be a bolt action takedown (like the 1022 TD) 45 carbine length rifle. Think the 77/22 in 45acp! Now THAT would be sweet!
It's gonna take me a while lazi. But I am really looking forward to it. I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE the Tactical Solutions 5.5 inch fluted barrel on the Buckmark. And also the integral rail that includes a rear sight. Then I would like to have a small reflex sight like the burris or bushnell on it. THEN in time I would like to have the 10/22 takedown with threaded barrel and set up for a reflex sight as well, or maybe a small power scope.
My UTG light arrived. It seems to be well made and I really love the feature where the brightness can be varied from an extremely low setting to full output at 700 lumens. The light remembers the setting and can be turned off and back on using the function switch. Unfortunately, the switch does not work all the time. Sometimes it works and sometimes not. So, I will return it and buy a Streamlight HP.
In a room setting you don't really need a mega lumens light. All it will do is blind BOTH of you in my opinion. I am VERY satisfied with my set up, after testing it in a completely darkened house. NO, I did NOT fire the weapon, Sheesh my name isn't Tom ya know.
I picked up my PSA 9mm lower yesterday. This will be my first AR but I'm thinking I my do another at some point. I will most likely go ahead and set up a 7.62x39 AR since I want to avoid .223 and I don't want to add any more calibers to what I have already. This PSA lower seems to be pretty nice and well built so I'm thinking I may get just another PSA complete lower after I get the upper for this one. I already purchased some 20 round 9mm AR mags and I'll probably get a few 32 round mags whenever they show up back in stock.
greaser, did you jump on that 459 SOCOM? Interested in seeing it in action. Too bad the price is up now. Now way I could pay for a full price one...although maybe could get an upper someday..
No I ended up passing on it just couldn't think of a reason I needed it over the DPMS GII I am waiting on.
So help me out! Need a new upper and debating the barrel options. Looking to shoot coyotes 100-300 yards out (maybe longer). My options (all 1:8 twist):
-- 16" stainless heavy -- 18" stainless heavy straight flutes -- 18" stainless heavy spiral fluted -- 18" stainless heavy melonite straight fluted -- 20" stainless heavy straight fluted -- 20" stainless heavy spiral fluted -- 20" stainless bull barrel with target crown
-- 16" melonite HBAR 1:7 (by far the cheapest optiom, but can't get a thin quad or keymod for that)
Gonna need to haul it a field. Not sure how heavy that 20" bull would be with an ultralight thin freefloat handguard, but I would think keeping the pkg under 8 lbs would-be ideal.
Is 16" just too short for this? Is a bull too heavy and unbalanced? Would a 20" spiral fluted be light enough and still provide good rigidity? Is 20" too "unmaneuverable?"
I have a buddy with an HBAR 18" that he runs suppressed. we were pinging steel gophers at 300 yards with cheap ammo. I'd suggest that. Even with a 16" heavy fluted barrel, I'd expect you could still get hits on target on 'Yotes.
NOt sure if it'll help you make your decision, but My thinking is this: If I can't think of a good reason why I need a barrel that long, then I don't really need it. Perhaps that will serve you as a useful yardstick as well?
I have a friend down in Canyon City who builds ARs. I've shot this one a couple times during testing, and I sorta fell for it... Looks like I'm finally getting into the AR market.
I have a friend down in Canyon City who builds ARs. I've shot this one a couple times during testing, and I sorta fell for it... Looks like I'm finally getting into the AR market.
I've had bad luck with Boyds. Put two thumbhole stocks on two Savages that were moa or better pre stock swap. Groups opened up to 2-3x that after dropping into the Boyds. Still free floated, but must be torquing the action somehow....
Think I'll go with an 18" when the time comes. Seems to be a good compromise between velocity and portability. Heavy fluted 1:8 twist stainless midlength with a 15" thin quad or combo rail and a nickel boron or melonited bcg. No sense wasting weight on a rail for a gun I'll be heaving around for half a mile.
I have a 16" M4 profile upper with a 15" quad from Hardened Arms that seems to shoot well. It's set up as a bug out or home defense gun with a Strikefire and a Bumpfire Stock with a competition muzzle brake (more for fun than practicality, I guess ). Stays on target fairly well at short range when shooting 2-5 round bursts. Maybe I should sell that set up and buy my upper and be done with it. 223, 300 BLK, 6.5 Grendel, 458 SOCOM...now I just need a 7.62x39 and a 6.8 SPC to complete the collection
I've had bad luck with Boyds. Put two thumbhole stocks on two Savages that were moa or better pre stock swap. Groups opened up to 2-3x that after dropping into the Boyds. Still free floated, but must be torquing the action somehow....
Huh I have had nothing but good. Perhaps over torquing the action screws?
Maybe, but I kinda doubt it. Worth checking into. I've heard similar stories elsewhere, with folks noting that you just need to glass bed them and be done with it. Not sure I have the time or injinuity to do that....
So, informal poll: any one ever use a bumpfire or slidefire stock (fess up, you know you did). Aside from the thrill of throwing 10-30 rounds downrange faster than you can say Mississippi, is there any real life application outside of fun?
My thinking is/was using as a bug out gun with a Strikefire on top. Since I cannot run fast, in an emergency evacuation, I was thinking I could at least lay down suppressive fire to allow others to run a little further...assuming I can work it right. It is DANG hard to keep just the right force on the verticle grip to keep it rattling along.
Since it does not need to be run fulltilt it could also be used for hunting or more conventional firefight situations (assuming there are more conventional fights).
Alternatively, we used it at the family reunion and had fun with it. Now I could just move it along--either the stock, the lower, or the whole rifle setup. Not sure my oldest would ever forgive me though...
So, informal poll: any one ever use a bumpfire or slidefire stock (fess up, you know you did). Aside from the thrill of throwing 10-30 rounds downrange faster than you can say Mississippi, is there any real life application outside of fun.
I have used a friend's bumpfire a time or two and have fired quite a few full auto weapons. They are fun to use especially if someone else is supplying the ammo. But I cannot envision a present day scenario, for me, where the bumpfire would be a clear advantage to use over a semi-auto. The high rate of fire would require the carrying of a large amount of magazines. I value accurate shot placement over volume of fire. The mechanism may or may not work the way it is intended. Trying to operate the bumpfire mode in a stressful situation would not work for me. And I cannot afford the ammunition that would be needed to train effectively. So, in my situation, simpler is better and I would not use one.
Whew! Well, looking at a DIFFERENT rifle now and decided to put my 16" Grendel up on the Forum to fund it. Just got the Grendel and now, time to let it fly. I'll send it onto Gunbroker tomorrow if I can take some better pics after work. Missed my shot (so to speak) thanks to some bumbling at the pharmacy. Oh well, if I can't sell it shortly, I'll keep it and be very satisfied
Yes, the 43 is the single stack 9. No discount but its blue label at my regular supply place. Glock days they are supposed to be showing up with at least 200. If I had more cash I would pick up a 17 or 19 as well.
If the G43 is anything like the Shield is to the full size M&P then it will easily become a goto EDC item. I'm fine with my larger M&P but I tend to go with the Shield just because it's easier to keep handy. I can clip on the Shield and slip an extra mag in my pockets an get out the door without a second thought. I also tend to just drop it on the night stand now rather than bothering with any of my full size firearms.
Looks like a nice little edc pistol. With prices on the Shield down to $315 I'm tempted to get one without the safety. But I might check out the 43 while I'm thinking on it.
Yup, looks pretty cool greaser. I think we are ok the same frequency. I have a PSA lower and some ASC mags here waiting on me to order the upper. That woukdve happened this week if I hadn't just bought a scope I had been wanting.
Looks like a polymer lower. What parts are you using?
Oh... The scope I ordered is a Vortex Viper HS LR 2.5-10x32. I always figured it would be a good fit for my SCAR but I wasn't wanting to spend $800 for it. It looks like they are discontinuing it and a online retailer had then for $400. I waited until they had free shipping ($20). Should be here tomorrow and mount this weekend...
I'd like to get a Weaver Superslam to go atop the 223 upper I don't have...found a stainless Wylde 1:7 match grade hand-lapped 16" mid-length with a hybrid rail for a mere $420...Unfortunately, the company refuses to take drool as payment....
Also looking to drop $160 on reloading gear. Need a better powder trickler, crimp dies for the 6.5, 458, 30-06, and 25-06, a large trimmer, and I WANT an RCBS hand pri!me tool.
Of course, without H1000 or Varget anywhere to be found, reloading isn't gonna be all that easy. Why the recent run on powder? And should I be mortgaging the house for components at this point too?
I'm glad I didn't get hung up on having illumination or some other fancy feature. I'm thinking this is a pretty good balance between a hunting scope and a "tactical" scope. The size, clarity, and side focus feature have me thinking I should seriously consider putting one of these on my CZ527.
I traded my impulse buy NEF single shot shotgun for 3 circle 10 mags. I already had plans to get more circle 10 mags and no real plans for the shotgun. Worked out pretty good...
Yup, looks pretty cool greaser. I think we are ok the same frequency. I have a PSA lower and some ASC mags here waiting on me to order the upper. That woukdve happened this week if I hadn't just bought a scope I had been wanting.
Looks like a polymer lower. What parts are you using?
Yep its a current gen Omni the one with the zinc reinforcement insert I figured the 9mm isn't going to stress it much at all and I have had it laying around for about 6 months now.(I got it for 50 bucks out the door with a free magpul 30 rounder) I am using just the stock PSA lower parts kit that came with the set up its "OK" nothing special but totally usable. I was amazed at how quiet it is not much if at all louder than a 22LR, I think I may have to put a suppressor on it. Does anyone know if I can apply for the suppressor before I buy one so I can save and research while I am waiting on the paper work to go through?
Greaser, NOPE! You need to buy the suppressor first (to get the serial number) and then send in the paperwork. At least this is the way I understand it.
Well that sucks. Technology constantly changes and with the amount of time it takes to get big brothers approval you are behind the curve by the time it gets out of jail.
Well all my "Gun" plans have been put on hold. First the Suppressor didn't come in when it was supposed to. Good thing, had to drop over a grand in tires on the pickup. Then had to spend a buck and a half on a battery and assorted stuff. Then half that to try and find out why the ac/heater fan slows down and will eventually stop, and then start working fine at a later time. Couldn't tell me a thing cause it was working when I took it in.
Then, quicker than we had intended, got a new (to us) vehicle. 2011 Jeep Patriot, 4cyl front wheel drive with less than 42K on the clock.
GD, just had this convo with my FFL. Set up a revokable trust BEFORE you but NFA stuff. Then have the trust purchase it. You can even register the trust in a gun friendly state nearby if your state wont allow transfers and then go buy it there and bring it back as the trustee. Even CA residents can do this if it's registered in NV.
Just picked up my 20" Grendel and 16" 458 SOCOM this afternoon. Fairly stoked! It will be a while til I get the 458 running though. I have zero cash left for an optic.
I have a bumpfire stock I'll be selling off and I am toying with the idead of selling off my M4 profile melonite upper that I put a compensator on (about 250-300 rounds) to fund my last AR purchase (its a disease).
I do love the upper and it seems fairly accurate (2" groups at 50 yards with a 4moa dot resting off my cane) but I'm using mainly scopes and the point of the gun is a varmint set up for yotes, or it will be...would prefer a nice day dxx dxx stainless med contour with a good barrel. Problem is, I know if I do that, I'll need to replace the M4 upper with another! Like I said....its a disease...
My issues is I have to use my grandparents for my home address even though I don't live with them. Only stable address I can use since I move around so much. I'm afraid my grandpa wants nothing to do with NFA and storing things at my parents house is something's dad wouldn't want.
You don't need an address to set up a trust--it's a legal document, kinda like incorporating yourself. You can set up the trust in any state you want. Let's say, for instance, if NFA items cannot be purchased in your state that you set up your trust in Texas (where many of the silencers are made). You can then purchase an item for the trust in the state your trust is set up in, go pick it up, and take it home with you. Doesn't matter if you have a stable address or not--the trust has legal status in a state, and as a trust beneficiary (in your case, the executor of the trust) you can take it out of the "trust" (not a physical place) and carry it with you wherever you go. No need to get your grandpa involved at all!
Of course, it's even easier if your state has lax gun laws. Just set it up in your state, have the item shipped to your FFL, have hime transfer it to your trust, and you are golden.
Side benefits: no finger prints, pictures, or background checks need to be done since it's a legal entity, not a person; takes about 16 weeks to get the stamp; and anyone who is named a trust beneficiary can use the items in the trust, including NFA items. So your wife, son, father, daughter, or whomever is a trust beneficiary can use the NFA item WITHOUT you being directly with them.
Gun control laws: ity's time to make them work for our benefit
That is my plan exactly DT, in my opinion a trust is the only way to go.
I just got my bumpfire systems stock in the other day I haven't played with it yet but I figured it would be a fun toy that could have a use in the future.
That is my plan exactly DT, in my opinion a trust is the only way to go.
I just got my bumpfire systems stock in the other day I haven't played with it yet but I figured it would be a fun toy that could have a use in the future.
Dang. Wish I'd have known you were looking. After using mine, I realized I'm never gonna get proficient enough with it to use in a real life situation.
Translation: I just don't get out to the range enough
I've been tempted by those too. They go on sale every once in awhile at my local Cabelas. Be be to have a lever action and nice to have something capable of shooting .22 shorts and such...
That is my plan exactly DT, in my opinion a trust is the only way to go.
I just got my bumpfire systems stock in the other day I haven't played with it yet but I figured it would be a fun toy that could have a use in the future.
Dang. Wish I'd have known you were looking. After using mine, I realized I'm never gonna get proficient enough with it to use in a real life situation.
Translation: I just don't get out to the range enough
No problem DT it was on sale for 99 dollars and was an impulse buy. Not sure if I will get super proficient with it but if the witch wins it may be a heck of an investment.
GD they are made in the US out of US materials and they hold their value. I would get it if it were me and I lived somewhere that I could find ammo for a reasonable price.
Ammo for a reasonable price? What's that? Lol got over 5,000rd in storage and a couple hundred in the plinking fun fund my S&W m&p15-22 doesn't like the lead round nose I can find regularly now.
Lol well 50 Remington golden are going for 15 bucks a box up here. Ill pass on the 22 then my two 17 cal rifles are more fun and actually sell for less! WTH? I sold my 22lr and the rifle that went with it.
Good luck! But even with tax sounds like a good deal. May have already done so, but check gunbroker, summittgunbroker, and budsgunshop to see their prices. If it's at or lower than them, pull the trigger...if you need a 22 that is
Plus the shipping and transfer fee on slick guns. You always have to take that into account. That can be as little as 25 or as much as 125 depending on your ffl and shipping fees. If you haven't yet find a good small time ffl they are usually the cheapest for transfers.
I'm supposed to be cutting down a Handi Rifle barrel this weekend. I bought a 45-70 specifically to chop down to 17" but for some reason I'm hesitant to go through with it.
I guess I want it to be perfect right off the bat and I'm not looking forward to going full tilt ocd with a file for the next two weeks.
Yeah idk if it's there next week a might do it. Problem is after I saw the small game rifle they make with peep sights and a heavy barrel I want that lol. And a semi auto shotgun for 3 gun. And a TC Encore. And an AR pistol haha
So the word is Wal-Mart is giving up the "tactical" rifles. Folks are saying they discounted them heavily. Like $250 and $350 in some cases. Man, I wish!
After Sandyhook, they stopped carrying all evil black rifles, as did Dicks Sporting Goods. Most stupid business decision I can think of. Everyone wanted them and would pay through the nose to get them, but to appease some liberals' agendas they decided it would be politically advantageous to stop selling the rifles. Thing is, those who would buy would MORE than offset those that would boycott. Shame when morons bow to stupidity...
If you want to give up your evil rifles. I will take one for the team. You can send your evil rifles to me and I will ensure that they have a good home, are shot on a regular basis and that they will never freak out and go on a rampage.
I am going to set up a sanctuary where they can be free, safe and happy.
I am currently accepting all Ar-15, Ar-10, Ak-47. Ak-74 and variants as well as all Browning, H&K, FN, Colt, Beretta's. I am willing to build a special enclosure for a Dillon Aero-Q or backpack mounted mini Guns.
If you want to give up your evil rifles. I will take one for the team. You can send your evil rifles to me and I will ensure that they have a good home, are shot on a regular basis and that they will never freak out and go on a rampage.
I am going to set up a sanctuary where they can be free, safe and happy.
I am currently accepting all Ar-15, Ar-10, Ak-47. Ak-74 and variants as well as all Browning, H&K, FN, Colt, Beretta's. I am willing to build a special enclosure for a Dillon Aero-Q or backpack mounted mini Guns.
HHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!
That made me laugh! It's true! Lack of regular shooting is the leading cause of guns going on rampages
Nice deal on the scope! If they drop further, I may have to jump on that!
They just did... Another $40 with a 10% + free shipping off coupon code.
Man, I could've used that $40!!!
I still haven't mounted it yet because I can't find my rings but it's a nice scope. To be honest I can't tell much difference in the quality of view between it and my Swarovski Z6. And I have to admit, if there is a difference that I'm noticing it would actually be in Vipers favor.
That's a pretty good deal. I looked through one of those 2-8x32 at th gun show this past weekend. Looked as good as my 2-7 Viper. If they had bee around I when I was scopeing my CZ527 I nigh have gone that route.
I guess I'm good on hunting scopes right now. I still have a Nikon Prostaff and the Viper 2-7 that will need a home. I think the Viper will go on AR rifle when I finally get an upper.
Just be careful. I liked the Sig brace a lot...until the BATF said that using it to shoulder your pistol changes the gun to an SBR. I have two foam buffer covers and then tied on a CAA saddle. The Thordsens buffer tube cover lookms like it would have saved me time and effort, but without it, I can still securely clamp it down on the tube and extend it back a couple of inches.
One of these days the BATF is going to be taken to task for all these ridiculous rulings, 99% of which the public is not allowed to see, but all of which we are supposed to abide by. I believe there is currently a case underway in the courts concerning a guy who violated one of these sealed rulings and was facing prison time as a result. BATF is now having to defend this ludicrous police-state-like practice to a Federal judge.
I keep waiting for the whole Firearms Act to be overturned. Much of Europe REQUIRES people to hunt with silencers because its too loud otherwise. They treat them like an accessory you can buy across the counter.
Agreed. There is no practical reason to regulate them. It's not as if deregulating them would mean more people die. They don't silence a gun, just reduce the noise. If anything, they should be required on guns for certain applications.
I'd like one for hunting and target shooting and three gun. Sadly because the way the tax stamp process works my Living arrangements prevent me from owning one.
I have this PSA lower and I've been tossing around the idea of a x39 AR hunting pistol instead of a 9mm rifle. I think either the Thorsden or the Shockwave would give me something to steady a pistol shot for the short ranges I've been encountering deer. I like the Shockwave but I don't think I can trust these game wardens to understand or even care about any explanations I could give them. The appearance of the Thorsden might be odd enough that it wouldn't require as much explanation. But who knows with these guys around here.
If there ever was any real issue with them I could even see having them be serialized and sold in a similar fashion as firearms. But just like a firearm I should be able to make one for myself if I want to.
... ..... I have to say these projectiles worked brilliantly on game of various sizes while I was overseas !!! Really happy with the choice I made on this !! My PH and I had a bit of an argument about projectiles with a bit of an "I told you so" from him while I was walking down my "wounded" buffalo... he was the bigger man when we examined the heart however... !!
No mate, through and through on everything (including the Cape Buffalo), both a broadside (first) and laying quartering from the rear (un-needed second shot). My PH (65 and hunting all his life in Africa) does not like solids AT ALL on anything but Elephant and our argument was that these had acted just like a solid, till he saw the heart on the buffalo and it was torn up as well as any soft or expanding projectile he had seen (his preference is Barnes or Swift). Croc, Kudu and Warthog were all one shot kills and DRT (but like the buff he insisted on follow up shots on the Kudu and Croc - totally unrequired but I understand his thinking). On the warthog (last thing shot) he was seeing the light and had accepted I could and was putting a bullet just where it was required each time
That's totally awesome Andy! I shot my second 3 gun match. Came In 17th of 48 shooters. I'm happy with myself. I also used a guys stoeger M3K and realized I need one by my next match in October! I also have a ruger MKIII hunter waiting for me to pick up at my local shop.
No mate, through and through on everything (including the Cape Buffalo), both a broadside (first) and laying quartering from the rear (un-needed second shot). My PH (65 and hunting all his life in Africa) does not like solids AT ALL on anything but Elephant and our argument was that these had acted just like a solid, till he saw the heart on the buffalo and it was torn up as well as any soft or expanding projectile he had seen (his preference is Barnes or Swift). Croc, Kudu and Warthog were all one shot kills and DRT (but like the buff he insisted on follow up shots on the Kudu and Croc - totally unrequired but I understand his thinking). On the warthog (last thing shot) he was seeing the light and had accepted I could and was putting a bullet just where it was required each time
I know you spent a lot of time and money testing those projectiles and it sounds like it all paid off. Congratulations on a great trip, Andy.
Lazi I know the shockwave ships with the ATF approval letter.
I think all of them come with some sort of letter. But having had a game warden look my fishing license over like it was possibly some sort of a fake I tend to not really trust their judgement.
Originally Posted by greaser
You can make your own suppressor but you still have to pay the 200 dollar fine and wait on the paperwork to go through.
Yup, but you can make a firearm without any of that nonsense. It makes no sense at all.
I wouldve just gotten a complete Radical Firearms pistol for $399 when they had them had I been thinking x39 at the time. But I'll probably go with a PSA upper since it has a 10" barrel and th price is right.
... ..... I have to say these projectiles worked brilliantly on game of various sizes while I was overseas !!! Really happy with the choice I made on this !! My PH and I had a bit of an argument about projectiles with a bit of an "I told you so" from him while I was walking down my "wounded" buffalo... he was the bigger man when we examined the heart however... !!
I know you spent a lot of time and money testing those projectiles and it sounds like it all paid off. Congratulations on a great trip, Andy.
... yes, after the effort the result really made it worth it in the end !! The primer issue (causing a change from Remington to Federal at the LAST moment was a real nerve inducer let me tell you !!!!
I have this PSA lower and I've been tossing around the idea of a x39 AR hunting pistol instead of a 9mm rifle. I think either the Thorsden or the Shockwave would give me something to steady a pistol shot for the short ranges I've been encountering deer. I like the Shockwave but I don't think I can trust these game wardens to understand or even care about any explanations I could give them. The appearance of the Thorsden might be odd enough that it wouldn't require as much explanation. But who knows with these guys around here.
But is there a Pistol hunting season for Deer? That's a whole other can of worms... not even a can, but a heap...
Just put a CZ P-07 on layaway for 480$. Have 60 days to finish paying, doubt it'll take that long though. Sadly, it came with two 10 rounders instead of 15, which I know CZ makes. I think it's probably easier for them logistically to just send 10 rounders to capacity limited states... BUT the good news is they don't look like they'll be too hard to drill out. Just a couple of dimples and they'll be back to 15 rounds in no time
I wanted a Coonan since before they started making them again. Maybe 6 or 7 months before they announced they would be making them again I came across them and have wanted one since. I just haven't been able to get it high enough on my wants list. There's always more practical and affordable stuff to get so while I would buy a Coonan in a heartbeat I don't know if it will ever happen.
I did get the .357 bug recently though. It probably won't happen this year but I decided I really like the S&W Model 60 with a 3" barrel.
LAZI. I have the S&W three inch, 5 shot "FBI" .357 in Stainless steel. It's a dream to carry, but it's a little stout with full power loads, but not anything that can't be handled.
LAZI. I have the S&W three inch, 5 shot "FBI" .357 in Stainless steel. It's a dream to carry, but it's a little stout with full power loads, but not anything that can't be handled.
I was thinking of a 686 plus or 627 but they are on the large side. I traded off a EAA Windicator off a while back and I liked it but the quality wasn't quite what I wanted. I felt it was only slightly heavy compared to some others I carry. I can give up the extra rounds for a less bulky quality stainless 3" five shooter. Then I could see myself still adding a Coonan to the line up at some point if I wanted a longer barrel and higher capacity.
I really like the looks of a full dust cover 1911. I'm just not a "1911 guy". The Coonan and maybe one of the Rock Island models with the full dust cover are the only amongst a handful that have really made me want one. None of the fancy high end stuff even gets my attention. I don't even look twice at them when I'm shopping. But I'm also not much of a .45 acp fan so the Coonan just managed to ding all the right bells for me.
If they were widely available and under $1K I think I'd have one by now. But over $1K and having to order one and wait monthes (not sure about now) I just never could get there.
I want to add another wheel gun to my collection but if I stumble across the means to get a Coonan I think I would do it.
Just by chance my local shop had this in the used case for a couple of weeks. After doing some research and watching countless videos I went back to see if they still had it and fortunately it was still there. I'll let you know how it shoots after I go to the range tomorrow morning.
Picked up my Ruger MKIII hunter! What a nice gun! What a pain to take apart if you have never done it before... My only complaint is the parts weren't deburred so I had to take a diamond stone and clean it up. I also have a Stoeger M3K 3 gun edition coming to me for compitition.
I got a few rifles sighted in for the upcoming deer season over the weekend. My main two rifles will be the CZ527 with a Meopta 4x and a H&R Handi Rifle with a .270 barrel and a Nikon Prostaff 3-9x40. I'll also be taking a .357 barrel topped with a Vortex Viper 2-7x32 as well. The .357 is mostly for when I can get a family to go along with me. I will most likely take it out a few times myself since I'm really liking the way the setup turned out. Between those three I think I have some good whitetail medicine.
We had about 20 acres cleared where I normally hunt and the rest of the property is overgrown brush that's too thick to even bother with. Last year I was able to hunt from behind the wood piles but that all will be gone this year. I'm comfortable with the little CZ in the woods but I'm hoping to get some more time with the .270 and give myself a little more reach in the open fields and trails. I also want to get more familiar with using Kentucky windage and BDC reticles with higher power cartridges. It also has me thinking it's time to invest in a decent rifle rest. I'd like to see what these rifles are capable of. Might even save me some of the sight in hassles.
I also took a couple pistols with me and shot them from a few yards out. I'm really liking the Shield a lot for what it is. Once I find some SD ammo I like it's going to be my go to edc. I'm actually considering getting one without a safety though. It's maybe not an issue to just to not use the safety but now I'm leaning towards just not having to worry with it at all. I forgot I had flipped it on at the range and when there was no boom I realized what a screw up that could turn into on another occasion.
I also put about 30 rounds through my FNP45 with the super barrel in it. It's a beast! My initial concern was that JHP ammo might not feed reliably because of the extremely shallow feed ramp. I polished it up a while back and so I haven't had a single problem with feeding or anything else. I've only put up to 6 rounds in the mags but nothing suggests there will be problem. So far I'm liking the 180gr Double Tap and I'll probably get a couple more boxes of it for my next range trip. The joker kicks an after about 10-15 rounds you wikke start to notice that it's got some pep to it. It's shootable but it's definitely not an all day plinker lol. I'm hoping it will make a good woods pistol for times when I come across a nice buck that's just a few feet away. The CZ is handy but after missing opportunities at extremely close distances I think it'll be wise to have something even more handy.
Here's the shooting rest I'm looking at. The reviews seem pretty good. It seems simple enough yet well built (in USA). It is also supposed to work with 30 round mags, pistol grips, and pistols. And there's a vise option...
Lazi: I applaud you on your thinking to go with a "safety less" handgun for SD purposes. MANY of them, Glock and Sig being two VERY nice systems along with others have no safety "Lever" at all. Yes some do have the "Safety in the Trigger" but I personally would not call this a safety.
I daily carry (SD and at work) a Ruger LC9 with CTC laser guard and it is a double action with a manual safety. The trigger pull is LONG, but smooth and not really that overly heavy to me and I carry it with the manual safety off! It is always in a holster on my belt so I don' feel unsafe at all. Others may claim this is dangerous, but I am accustomed to pulling and firing and if I had to deactivate a safety in a real world situation I could easily fumble it or forget it. I would rather trust in training and familiarity. Just me, and your mileage may vary.
I agree. Many years ago I sold all of my Colt 1911 pistols but two and bought Glocks and a Kahr. None of them have an external safety switch. One less thing to worry about in a stressful situation. Police used revolvers for over a hundred years without a safety switch.
Hobbes, it's Tuesday and I'm eagerly awaiting your Coonan report. Can't hold my breathe much longer...
Sorry Mastiff. Times slips away these days but I'm sure you already know that.
First things first. I love this gun. I didn’t know anything about them before I saw it in the case at my local gun shop but after doing some research I had to have one. Luckily this was in the used case and was about $600 cheaper that a new one. From what they told me, the previous owner put less than a box though it before he decided he didn’t like it. His loss, my gain.
The Coonan is a beast. It is designed to shoot .357 but also comes with an additional recoil spring which will allow you to shoot .38's. The grip is only a little bit bigger than a full size 1911 so I had no problem holding it. I was unsure of the recoil before the first round since .357's kick a bit more than .45 but surprisingly the recoil was quite manageable and less that my GP100. Muzzle rise was minimal once I found my grip and I was able to get some nice groups at 10 yards.
I switched out the recoil spring and tried the .38's but apparently there is a break in period for the lighter springs and it was constantly jamming on ejection of the spent round. I did some research and found other people having the same issue. The recommendation was to switch out the 10lb recoil spring with an 8lb spring. I got one from Wolfe which also came in last week. When it did feed it felt like shooting a very heavy .22. The gun has some weight to it. It’s 40 oz empty.
My Coonan came with the standard smooth wood grips but I switched them out last week with milled black aluminum grips I got from their online store. The wood grips felt great but they were a little too smooth for my liking. I'm hoping to get to the range tomorrow and try them out.
I’m going back to the range tomorrow to try out the new parts. Can’t wait to see how it performs now.
Also, Smith & Wesson modified their semi-auto (Model 39, I think) to take the .38 Special for Bullseye competition. I have used that Model 52 and had heard of the Colt but never saw one. They were a lot more expensive than the S&W.
Yes they were Bullseye Guns Skunk. Ray those M52s were fine shooting pistols as well. In my tiny country pistol club (when I was a teenager) there were at least two of them.
I'm setting here watching the Bond movie where Halley Berry and James bond were up in the Arctic somewhere. Anyway, It appears to me as if Bond MIGHT be using a Beretta PX4 (might be a Walther though) and Halley Berry is using (toward the end on the Bad Guys Plane) using a Beretta 92. Do any of Y'all know what handgun Bond used in this movie?
With Christmas coming up my wife is asking for gift ideas. I think I will go practical again this year. Gun parts for stuff I was planning to do anyway.
I get what I want and there isn't any question about where it came from. Win-Win.
Nothing crazy, rubberized grip tape, some mag extensions and maybe a conversion barrel to 9mm and some mags.
I'm trying to slip one or two more in before the new year. I was hoping to see a deal on one of the AR uppers I wanted from Palmetto but they are all out. And nothing really stood out in the Black Friday sales...
It may finally be time for me to purchase a .22lr pistol.
I'm trying to decide what optic and lighting upgrades I want to make to the primaries I'm keeping. It'll feel really nice to trim the fat and butter the keepers.
I've been looking for the "ideal" 1-6x optic for years. I'd like to try a Nightforce or Elcan Specter ...but... the price tag is ridiculous. The last Elcan I looked at was over $2,000. I'm a big advocate of buying as high as you can, but $2k for an optic makes me wonder what the markup is on these.
I agree Arch those Elcans look and sound like the best set up out there but the cost has always scared me away and you never see them for sale used, which I think is a good sign but means full price only.
I can't see paying $2K for a optic but then again I couldn't see paying $500 for a knife or $2K+ for a rifle. But if it works for the task and the funds are there then things somehow become justified for the "long run".
I'm sure a Elcan is a good choice but I just don't have targets worth the $2500. Even if the glass was clearer than my eyeballs and the build is 100% bomb proof, I don't have the need or the skill set to take advantage of something like that. I actually bought a scope that sells for around $2K a little while back and I'm sure it's worth that to somebody but I couldn't pay that for one. Not for my uses... If I'm lucky I'll use it enough over the next 20 years to eventually eek out some quality time with it. But I just pulled the trigger on a $200 IOR 4x32 "hunting" scope that I expect will see more action than the Swarovski.
I do believe in having the right tool for the job but there also the "law of returns" to consider. If I knew that zombies would be coming in two weeks I'd certainly make some prime choices over the next few days. It's a little harder to make a similar investment in the off chance that I will get a day to go punch holes at the range.
Greaser, I remember seeing a total of ONE used Elcan for sale. I guess this means people like them or are afraid of the loss associated with selling high end used optics.
Lazi, I have a couple of higher end optics (Trijicon ACOG TA31RSR SU-237 and similar) and once owned a US OPTICS which was close to a $2k scope. I cannot understand the premium on "dated" designs. Besides glass and glass coating quality ... How different is a Leupold Mk4 from a Mk6 from a USO or Nightforce. Where I understand additional cost is innovative designs. There is only one ACOG, Aimpoint (lots of red dots but none come close to having SEVEN YEAR continuous on battery life), etc. Now that I said all of the above....you're right. The law of diminishing returns applies.
I know the PA red dots are popular as budget optics, but I've read really mixed reviews. Without putting too elitist of a point on it, the "my DPMS is every bit as good as a Colt" crowd swear by the PA. People with more educated opinions don't seem to view the PA as anything more than an optic for range toys (i.e. - not for "serious use").
If you're wanting something for a plinker or don't care if it goes down then please buy one and relate your experiences.
Eta My experience with Chinese copied technology hasn't been positive.
I know Chinese labor is basically free, but how much human labor is involved in the production of nitrogen purged optics? They have to be cutting costs some place.
I agree this would be my training rifle optic but that test shows what I have heard, that they are good and would love to put one to the test. I think my 12 gauge AR and 45/70 lever action should put it to a good test. Ok well you talked me into it Arch I will get one in the next month or so and start hurting it with recoil and temperature.
About a year and a half ago I wanted to try a red dot out. The PA micro-dot seemed to be ideal for my purpose. It was about $100 and I purchased an American Defense QD mount to go with it. The optic has worked fine. Granted, I have not used it in a combat environment or even in the rain. But it has survived much range time and I have removed it and put it back on my AR many times for various reasons and it has maintained zero. No complaints from me on this optic.
I will probably try to sell or trade my standard 10/22 at the next gun show. I have decided to get a takedown model at some point. I think the RX22 will give me all the cool features in a .22 rifle I Have been wanting. I missed the mark witb the Mig-22 but I'm pretty sure about the RX-22.
lazi, A friend who is also an FFL had one of the Anschutz "22 Scars". He said it shot very well. I never had a chance to shoot it. However, there are other models that LOOK more like a Scar. The ISSC MK22 is more closer to the original:
I have no personal experience with either gun. My feelings on 22LR replicas of larger military designs can be summarized as: they usually look neat, function poorly and have miserable accuracy.
Many people, myself included, have found the 10/22 TD to be more accurate than the traditional model.
If I read right ISSC has something to do with both the RX22 and the MK22. But it seems the Anschutz version has a better barrel, trigger group, and overall better build the the MK22. I was seeing the MK22 for $199 but all the reviews were either made or mixed. While looking at the MK22 I stumbled across the Anschutz version for $299 which seems to get pretty good reviews. With the better barrel they are some folks saying it's on par with what can be expected from Anshcutz.
I want a tactical .22 just for giggles but I also want a practical .22 like the 10/22. I thought about just having two 10/22 rifles. One with a fancy stock and One TD but with all the new tactical guns I'm sort of taking the bait. I realize these tacticool firearms will likely become obsolete and the parts will be hard to come by. But I don't intend them as my go to for anything other than range and recreation.
Again, its second hand information, but my FFL friend thought very highly of his Anshutz version. He said it shot very well (this guy was is a retired LEO who was a firearms instructor for a lot of years).
I'm looking to pick up a new handgun for variety in my shooting and variety in preparations. Looking at either a Ruger Sp101 .357 4" barrel or a Glock 21. Do have a little yearning for a 1911...thought About splurging on a Dan Wesson Heritage, but doubt I'll spring for that. One of the reasons for thinking about the Ruger is that I'll pick up a 22 version of it down the road.
Whichever one I get...I'll get the other next year...using bones money to spread out the buys.
RN, I saw were you were letting the 527 go. sucks it didn't stick with you. I haven't gotten any amazing accuracy out of mines but it's been plenty accurate for deer and it's light so it's a keeper.
There was only a couple rifles I wanted as much as the CZ527 and one was a Ruger 77/357. Reason I'm mentioning it is if you are looking at a SP101 you may consider a 77/357 down the road to replace the 527. This would give you a matching rifle and pistol combo and you'd still have a nice intermediate woods bolt rifle for when the kids get older.
RN, I saw were you were letting the 527 go. sucks it didn't stick with you. I haven't gotten any amazing accuracy out of mines but it's been plenty accurate for deer and it's light so it's a keeper.
There was only a couple rifles I wanted as much as the CZ527 and one was a Ruger 77/357. Reason I'm mentioning it is if you are looking at a SP101 you may consider a 77/357 down the road to replace the 527. This would give you a matching rifle and pistol combo and you'd still have a nice intermediate woods bolt rifle for when the kids get older.
I found a LGS that will sell a saiga sporter, so when I find one for a decent price, I'll pick one up. Still like the 7.62 x 39 round for CT.
I wish the Storm was still legal in CT, it looks like a lot of fun and a nice home defense weapon.
VEPRs have a following. I have no personal experience with them.
Rich, are Mini-30s legal in CT? They're available in stainless and take detachable mags. You aren't going to win an accuracy contest, but the new hammer forged barrel version is miles ahead of the Mini of old.
I have a new issue Mini-14 tactical and am very fond of it. I'd keep it if it did NOT have a threaded muzzle (for times when I'm traveling to anti-gun states). As it is, it has a threaded barrel so it'll eventually get sold.
I might pick up a Mini-30 stainless without threads for the reason stated.
VEPRs have a following. I have no personal experience with them.
Rich, are Mini-30s legal in CT? They're available in stainless and take detachable mags. You aren't going to win an accuracy contest, but the new hammer forged barrel version is miles ahead of the Mini of old.
I think the Ruger is legal- I know the .223 version is. I have the idea the Saiga will choke down cheap ammo well and the Ruger won't- am I correct?
Well I shot a 3gun match 2 Sunday's ago. Out of 66 shooters many sponsored I got 11th. In my division (practical) I got 8th. Pretty cool. I'm not evening running race guns. Well I guess my stoeger M3K 3 gun edition with a + 8 Nordic extension is but my pistol is just a LAV g17 with 17rd mags and I'm running a carbine i built for fighting not racing.
VEPRs have a following. I have no personal experience with them.
Rich, are Mini-30s legal in CT? They're available in stainless and take detachable mags. You aren't going to win an accuracy contest, but the new hammer forged barrel version is miles ahead of the Mini of old.
I think the Ruger is legal- I know the .223 version is. I have the idea the Saiga will choke down cheap ammo well and the Ruger won't- am I correct?
I've only owned one Mini-30, and it was for a short time period. It came with aftermarket magazines, and they didn't function. As a result, I wasn't able to determine if the rifle was reliable.
I've read a lot of remarks about both the 14 and 30 being unreliable with cheap steel case ammo. I can neither confirm or deny these reports. I have an unfired Mini-14 Tactical that I was going to sell. I might run a few hundred rounds of Wolf through it as a test.
Saigas use to employ a proprietary magazine that didn't look as durable / reliable as standard AK mags.
Well I shot a 3gun match 2 Sunday's ago. Out of 66 shooters many sponsored I got 11th. In my division (practical) I got 8th. Pretty cool. I'm not evening running race guns. Well I guess my stoeger M3K 3 gun edition with a + 8 Nordic extension is but my pistol is just a LAV g17 with 17rd mags and I'm running a carbine i built for fighting not racing.
Well done. I hear a lot of people talk about 3 gun, but I've never even watched a match.
Well I shot a 3gun match 2 Sunday's ago. Out of 66 shooters many sponsored I got 11th. In my division (practical) I got 8th. Pretty cool. I'm not evening running race guns. Well I guess my stoeger M3K 3 gun edition with a + 8 Nordic extension is but my pistol is just a LAV g17 with 17rd mags and I'm running a carbine i built for fighting not racing.
I'm thinking about looking into some competition shooting get into next year sometime. Pretty much for the reasons you mentioned... It'll maybe give me a reason to get in some sort of shape and get a little more familiar with my firearms.
I originally had this in the SOLD thread but didn't want to derail the thread so I deleted it and will add it here.
I know the 45 Vs 9mm by heart, and still like the 45 as even if all you can find is ball ammo, it still will make a 45 cal hole. BUT with the newer 9mm ammo I don't think that it is really lacking that much at handgun range (to me 25 yards), with the CX4 I will stretch this to 50 as Federal told me to expect 1300-1400fps out of the 16inch barrel using their HST3 124 grain bullets.
I'd chose one well placed 380 over two poorly placed 45. Remember, almost all of the common handgun cartridges are underpowered. The 5.56 (62gr traveling 2900fps) gets criticisms often about not stopping adequately...
Being able to place two rounds center-of-mass instantly at 10 yards followed by one to the head is a recipe for success. Choose your sidearm according to your ability to complete this drill.
Being able to place two rounds center-of-mass instantly at 10 yards followed by one to the head is a recipe for success. Choose your sidearm according to your ability to complete this drill.
IF ever needed, that's the plan. IF I can think of it.
Randy, Train to instinctually shoot for center mass. It's the biggest target, and has a high success rate for stopping assault.
I do, but being in LE we were (not active duty any more) trained to go center mass, but NOT do a kill shot if not needed. We were taught about the Pelvis shot as a disabling "tool" that may not be fatal.
I don't want to hurt anyone but if somebody puts me in a position I have to pull the trigger I'm not worry about wounding. I'm going to stop the threat as quickly as possible.
I agree with you GD, not to mention it is the largest "target area". I just wanted to see what was thought of regards the Pelvic Girdle shot. Personally I don't think I would ever go for that. If your shot is to low you might miss everything.
Cracking the pelvis is SOP for dealing with armoured hostiles ie wearing a vest and/or helmet that precludes a shot being placed into the one of these zones. Crack the pelvis, to at least immobilise the hostile and then continue to manage accordingly.
Ammo used: Federal, PMC, Remington, Winchester, others.
Rounds fired: 600+.
Reliabilty: 1-2 failures per mag.
Mags: Ed Brown (inc those he sold me at retail to fix the problem), Wilson, Chip McCormick.
Same ammo and mags worked 100% in the two Les Baer I had at the time. Buy a LB and don't look back. Most accurate handguns I've fired (have had three).
If it was my money I would look hard at Wilson combat GD I have handled a few and read and heard a lot about them and nothing bad to be heard at least as far as I have seen.
I just don't see the "value" in a 1911. Yes there are those who will string me up and yes I do have one with above $2K invested in it. It works, it shoots well it feels good in hand. No question. But it is truly just not worth the $$s (performance vs price vs value vs utility) invested when you can see just what else you can buy with the same amount. I MUCH prefer the Browning Hi Power in about every respect. Buy a pair of Glocks, or FNs plus magazines and an imperial shyte tonne of ammunition for for them for that same $2K investment.
Sorry rant off... Don't read that wrong either, I do love my 1911 it is a classy and useful tool, just not for the $$s people are spending on them !!!!
I was just wondering . When I buy another handgun it will need to be a high cap 9mm for 3gun. I'm waiting till I can shoot my LAV g17 so well it's holding me back before I buy anything. Lots of guys I'm competing against have STI 2011s
I just don't see the "value" in a 1911. Yes there are those who will string me up and yes I do have one with above $2K invested in it. It works, it shoots well it feels good in hand. No question. But it is truly just not worth the $$s (performance vs price vs value vs utility) invested when you can see just what else you can buy with the same amount. I MUCH prefer the Browning Hi Power in about every respect. Buy a pair of Glocks, or FNs plus magazines and an imperial shyte tonne of ammunition for for them for that same $2K investment.
Sorry rant off... Don't read that wrong either, I do love my 1911 it is a classy and useful tool, just not for the $$s people are spending on them !!!!
Agreed.
For $2000 I can buy:
Ruger LCP Glock 19 HK45C Spare mags Ammo
I'd have every one of my defensive handgun needs covered.
I would happily take a pair of lightly customised BHPs over a top end 1911. And to repeat myself I do love the 1911 ! For 2K (here in Aus) I would simply take two Glock 17s or a 17 and a 19 (laws aside) and magazines and ammunition.
I also shot about 250 rounds out of my LWRC IC-E. I would zero my Aimpoint T1 and then lose zero. The mount was loose - rookie mistake.
I ordered a LaRue mount when I made it home. I'll be selling the factory 39mm LRP mount cheaply. It was my fault for not tightening it, but I just like LaRue.
Guys, I'm looking for a relatively inexpensive AK-47 with a 30 round magazine. So far I have found the Century Arms weapons, but what is the difference between the WASR and other models?
I will be running it on a 12 gauge so I was thinking the 6 moa would be fine and from what I have heard the wash out has been improved in current gen models. I should have mentioned the firearm it would be riding on first off. My 5.56 will be getting an aimpoint for sure.
You're welcome. I loved the concept, but it was lost on a 556 carbine
Side note: I bought mine used and it came with an ARMS throw lever mount. The optic is rather wide, and would rock side to side when mounted. I don't know if this was related to the mount or the mount/optic interface.
Since it had a 6MOA ret I couldn't tell if this had any effect on accuracy. This wouldn't matter on a shotgun, but the recoil might pose a problem if it's a design issue between the mount/optic interface.
Again, I think it would be a great choice on a SG as long as you can lock it down tightly.
OK I'll be sure to check that when mine comes in. I get a substantial discount on them as well so I am glad it is as good as it seems for this application.
Andy, Any idea what the conversion rate is (dollars to Aussie Pesos)?
.... yep, with my Busse addiction I watch this daily... $1A = $0.72US. When current stocks of Glocks in country are exhaused I expect to see them pushing $1K retail new.
Tom, That's in AK no man's land (more than junk / less than the rifles I'd recommend). It seems quality AKs have increased dramatically in value recently. This time last year I was liquidating my Arsenal AK collection and couldn't sell brand new in the box with free spare "circle 10" mags (read $$$) for $900. The same models are in the $1200 range now.
I know of an online retailer who has Arsenal 762x39 AKs for $999. The same retailer has WASRs for $639. I would never pay that much for a WASR!
Personally, I'd save a few more dollars and would get the $999 Arsenal.
I have noticed a general upward trend in cost, and more guns selling recently. I suspect this is a result of timing (more guns sell in the cold months and esp at the end of the year when everyone has bonus money) and a general concern with the upcoming election.
Greaser I have no experience with those. I've always stayed with traditional shotgun designs: Benelli M1 Super 90 / M2 Field / M2 Tactical, Remington 870 / 11-87, etc.
Is it reliable? What time of drum or mag does it use?
Greaser I have no experience with those. I've always stayed with traditional shotgun designs: Benelli M1 Super 90 / M2 Field / M2 Tactical, Remington 870 / 11-87, etc.
Is it reliable? What time of drum or mag does it use?
It has been for me, I use it with low brass bird shot for clays and high brass buck for HD its never hiccuped. Internally it is a Winchester 1100. It uses 5 or 10 round stick mags although there is a company making a 23 round banana mag now. It looks ridiculous but I find myself wanting one. Lol
I watched the Arsenal SGL-21 go from $600 to $900 while trying to decide on which AK to buy. I'm not totally sure they are worth the investment after learning the way they handle the warranty I'm not in a hurry to buy another. Apparently you can buy a new gun and the warranty will already have expired.
But so far I'm happy with my SLR-101. You don't find too many people who will knock them on quality. I was also never able to find anythhing that sold me on a better AK for my money. I'd pay the going rate for a lifetime warranty or 5 year even. But if I knew it was a 1 year (maybe) warranty I'd have let them keep it.
Architect is right though. This is not the best time to be in the market for one. You are looking at $600-$700 for the exact same guns were $400-$500 five or six years ago. Instead of getting a SLR-107 like I had planned I think I'm going to get a AR15 in x39. That way I can kill two pmbirds with one stone. I can scratch my itch for a AR15 and get a rifle that's lighter than my 101. It'll me right around $500 for the AR with lifetime warranty and $1K+ for the 107 that ships out on the clock. With x39 ammo being fairly low that $500 will go a long way.
5.45x39? Nope... I don't even think I've seen a rifle down here other than a unconverted Saiga back when they were $300. I'm also not seeing the ammo like I used to.
I would like to shoot one. It's a nasty looking little round.
I was sort of leaning towards a tactical version of a Mini-30 before I bought my Arsenal. At the time I still had the M1A and was liking the similarities. But I figured for an extra $200 I could get the pistol grip, cheaper easier to find 30 round mags, and AK reputation. So I went with the AK.
If I already had a Mini-30 I doubt I'd care about a getting a AK other than just to have one around. The Mini-30 could probably stand a few enhancements to make it more in line with the "tactical" stuff but if it's a reliable firearm I'd run with it. Maybe a Ultimak rail or something like the Archangel chasis would be cool add ons. I always liked the A-team looking folding stocks. But having held a few Minis I liked the package pretty much how it is. And I am a fan of 20 round mags so that's a plus to me. I'm actually hoping Magpul makes their new AK mags as 20 rounders as I would buy a bunch of them.
The muzzle blast is the same of course I just want to clarify that.
But the recoil impulse is much crisper and you don't have the noise as the bolt reciprocates. I don't have as much muzzle jump and the recoils feels different. Not sure how to explain it.
The muzzle blast is the same of course I just want to clarify that.
But the recoil impulse is much crisper and you don't have the noise as the bolt reciprocates. I don't have as much muzzle jump and the recoils feels different. Not sure how to explain it.
Ok yeah I was referring to the twang of the recoil spring, so overall you feel it was a good purchase?
Yes! I good investment for sure! I may add an adjustable gas block at some point. I just hate to add more moving parts that can go wrong. My muzzle rise is much better. I just want to get my gun to the point is stays perfectly flat for follow up shots.
The AUG really is a love/hate kind of rifle for many. The new F90 (EF88) is designed to rectify many of the issues we have had with them in service over the years. I am no a huge fan (and was part of the SARP - Small Arms Replacement Program in the late 80s) but it has now certainly proven its worth in service here now for the past 27yrs !!
The early production ones were crap (Oh, there are no Kiwi built F88s - they bought all @5K from us), mostly because of issues with the drawings from which they were produced, once that was all resolved (by the late 90s) most all of the bugs that were not inherent to the design were ironed out. The Lithgow barrels were always better than the original Austrian versions (I had to provide two examples from stocks to the Steyr reps to take back home to examine as they did not believe the internal tolerances and quality that was being maintained in our production). Till the cerakote finished was adopted (over the last 5 years or so) the coating on the F88 was always problematic, nothing a rattle can of flat black could not fix though...
Sorry Andy - I actually knew you all made the Kiwi guns, but wasn't clear in my post. I've read some pretty hate-filled commentary on Aussie soldiers who were "straddled with" the early F88s. I always question information found on the interwebs from unknown sources, but now that I've heard it from you I consider it 100% confirmed.
Regarding the inherent design issues, I have a few thoughts but would like to see what I missed:
1) Trigger - as a loyal Subject to the Crown (US Government) I do not have available the ability to acquire a full auto AUG. Therefore, I cannot comment on the "pull thru" full auto trigger system. I can say, having owned three AUGs, the trigger feel varies from "bad but tolerable" to "awful".
2) Reload - slow, difficult from prone.
3) Ejection - no weakside shooting here!
4) Original 1.5x Optic - my first AUG was a US Preban 905 Series with the integral 1.5x "Donut of Death" optic. The objective lens and/or field of view were too narrow. The 1.5x Fixed was too powerful for CQB and too weak for most other uses. The AUG I have now has their newest Schmidt & Bender made 3x optic with improved reticle. This is a VERY nice optic, but I wish it included an illuminated reticle.
5) The S/A Cocking Piece is very cheaply made, and I fear it'll break.
You have nailed most of the design curses with the original AUG, many have been fixed in subsequent upgrades (we use a great variety of optics on them now - Aimpot, EoTech, Elcan, Factory 1.5x etc. Weak side shooting wiil alway ba a problem butt I have (when pressed) seen the rifle shot from the left (by a right handed shooter) but turned 90 degs so the ejection port is facing down. Not ideal but it lets you get some rounds out.
In the original production some major specs were out (the issue around the drawings) and I saw a who batch of 900 rifles scrapped after issue to a Btn. There were some corrosion issues with internal (trigger pack especially) springs as they were just plain steel. The receivers were wearing significantly around the busing that surrounded the barrel, this apparently was a result of the removal and replacement of the barrel (over and over). all of that said, when a respectable optic was available, the rifles were VERY accurate ! If you see any pictures of the SASR operating in Somalia in the early 90s you will see them sporting F88s mounting all manner of different Leupold commercial optics !!
What a nasty day to shoot a 3 gun match. Starting with pouring rain and mid 40s. Range was already a muddy mess. And during the match the temps dropped to 2degrees with wind chill. And blowing snow. It was fun but brutal. Here are my match results. I could have done better but I had an issue on a stage with not having the mag seated with my AR and also a few minor things. Over all I'm happy consider how the day went.
I have a Yugo SKS coming but it's more for plinking than anything else. I'll probably do AR in 7.62x39 as well but the Arsenal is still going to be my primary.
Got out the new Smith and Wesson 45. I'll take that for 1st time out! Gotta figure out the trigger, but I got it 1/2 to add some variety with a striker fired pistol and half for variety in my prepping. Soft shooter...I was surprised...I mostly shoot my full sized CZ 75bd and that's all steel of course.
And those are two new Emersons I'm loving! That small one especially is wrecking other knives for me!
I have a Yugo SKS coming but it's more for plinking than anything else. I'll probably do AR in 7.62x39 as well but the Arsenal is still going to be my primary.
We're gonna have to start calling you Rambo Rich, the Connecticut Cutthroat! (hey it's the only thing I could think of that Rhymed).
Here's a little laugh Randy. When my recruiter was helping me with the military ID, he says We need a second photo ID. So I respond- no problem, I have my CT pistol permit.
Later he was laughing telling me he thought "Pistol permit? You're a social worker!"
We're gonna have to start calling you Rambo Rich, the Connecticut Cutthroat! (hey it's the only thing I could think of that Rhymed).
Here's a little laugh Randy. When my recruiter was helping me with the military ID, he says We need a second photo ID. So I respond- no problem, I have my CT pistol permit.
Later he was laughing telling me he thought "Pistol permit? You're a social worker!"
New Zealand, North Island. Fly into Wellington, drive to Napier, take a chartered chopper flight for drop off into the mountains to the west, spend the next ten days walking around, fly/bivvy camping and hunting Sika Deer...
Just finished polishing, sizing and trimming 100 cases. Figured out a seating depth for my projectiles. I will through a few charges to check pressure (the loads will be up close to or exceed suggested max weights) then settle in for some groups and tinkering.
The rifle is off for Cerakoting as soon as I can organise it, just waiting on some replacement action screws so I can do it all at once.
There will be pics... just depends on if the real camera or a walking camera makes the grade...LOL
There is a story to this. My best mate (of over 35yrs) called a couple of weeks ago to say g/day. We were talking and it went kind of like this...
Him (H) "So I turn 50 next year"
Me (M) "I know, you old bastard, picked a walking frame yet"
H "Get..." (OK I will leave the witty back for forth out as it does not take us to the point, it only proves that swearing is very common here).
H "So I want to do something, I was thinking of a trip in on Sika in NZ, chopper out of Napier, get dropped in, pack around for a week - ten days".
M "Sounds like a great trip mate"
H "It does, but I wanted to know..."
M "Hell yes (I cut him off before he actually asked), of course, lets get it planned"
H "Great.... the Mrs said I couldn't unless YOU came with me".
So there you have it. It also looks like we may spend his actual 50th in the bush (and maybe my birthday as well as it is only five days before his).
So, there have been endless exchanges on ideas and such over the past couple of weeks (yes there is a year to kill), we both KNOW that we could pack up with what is here and do this trip without spending a cent extra, but that would be no fun at all. He does need new boots (legitimately) and I need to break a pair in. Some lightweight hootchies, some solar charging arrangements and maybe some titanium cookware are the only real things that need chasing down.
I just need to get the .300 sorted out to where *I* am happy with it. No doubt I could just grab it and go now....but again...where's the fun in that.....
I've seen videos and shows of hunting New Zeland and MAN is it rugged! You better get into your mountain climbing exercise routine or you won't make it.
Well I thought we had a suppressor thread but if we do I couldn't find it.
Found about this today (new to me) new type suppressor from a company called OSS SUPPRESSORS. You should take a look, they ARE NOT like any "Baffels" you have ever seen.
I have used the RCBS and the Hornady digital scales I liked them both, but I reload in bulk so I only spot weigh the batch so I use a lee beam scale and love it.
I don't have any experience with suppressors, BUT, one of the complaints or observations I see on You Tube vids is that screw-on suppressors have a habit of coming loose. With three screw-on pieces involved in the OSS suppressor, that's a lot of tightening.
I wonder if this OSS product has somehow addressed this problem since they will still have the heat and vibration that seems to be the major contributing factors to the problem.
One of the spokesman for OSS stated that they had over 15,000 rounds through one of the test rifles so they must have some experience with what I'm referring to. If they had resolved this problem, I would think they would be using it as a selling point.
I may need to see a therapist about why I can't seem to like SKS rifles.
I found a decent deal on one and I've been dragging out picking it up. There is just no excitement for me when it comes to this rifle. It's probably a good rifle and it may even turn out to be a good shooter. Even so, I'm already thinking of where I'm going to store it so it's out of my way.
It'll be lucky if I never take a hacksaw to it and turn it into something like this.
I liked my SKS kind of miss it but if I had another one I would just be using it as a hand off gun for anyone who needed it if it came to it. The AK and AR platforms are miles above it as far as a go to rifle is concerned.
I've had quite a few DSA rifles. For the most part they're a solid hobby grade FAL. The pre 2007-2008 guns had a lot of quality surplus parts. Post 2008 and the DSA made parts count increases. These have proven to be of questionable quality.
My FAL of choice is a 100% IMBEL imported by Springfield Armory as a SAR-48. I wouldn't part with mine for any amount of money. I view that rifle as my Nuclear Winter battle rifle.
... not bad for one of those lesser metric versions of the rifle...
The only "real" Inch Pattern rifle I've seen for sale here went for $6000. Cast receiver (Type 3) FN made rifles start at around $3500. The forged "G" FN rifles are pushing $5-6500.
IMBEL imports are "functional", and around $2000.
If I could buy a 50.00 or 50.61 FN for $3000 I'd buy one of each.
Yes the Poyer/Onyx rifles do draw a premium in the US, even with the safety sear deleted. The Century LEO L1A1s are a bit grey for most as well.
Both my L1A1s (a standard and an F1) wore British/Kiwi plastics and had the pins added to enable the BHO to function on an empty magazine. Mine also had Hythe rear sight (but not front sights as they were just too boxey for my liking) !! A few good smacks with a hammer and punch worked wonders for upper/lower play and giving the rear sight a squeeze in the vice helped the bit of wobble on the rear sight. Watching so modified L1A1s shooting at the AASAM (Australian Army Skill At Arms Meeting) against all manner of international teams always reminded my what a capable rifle it was
The L1A1 with a few tweeks is probably the best evolution of the FAL design IMHO.
I was loading a bit over the last week, it seems my old scales (compared to the new ones) were out .2-.4gns. I had to pull some of the pressure test loads I did up as a couple of cases that belonged to a friend (of many years ago) had got in my stash and they would not even get close to chambering in my rifle after only a neck size. I had checked each and every one of the 100 cases I had set aside, trimmed, polished and neck sized, through the chamber but didn't apply the same diligence to the 20 or so I had for pressure checking etc.
Loaded up several round from 3grns below max weight (70gns) to 1gn over max and launched them off Saturday afternoon. I am pretty sure I can still go up to around 3gns over max but I am going to start work at 1gn over (74gns). I have loaded up a small batch now for accuracy testing, I just need a morning at the range to do so.
I actually think the Falklands era Brit kit and rifle are about as sexy as battle rattle and rifles can be.
..... for years my jacket of choice was a Royal Marine Arctic Smock, wore that all around the world. I replaced it with an original SAS smock (I do prefer the cut of the hood on this over the RM version) and an Australian made/SF issue smock in Multicam. The later gets most use now, though if I am feeling nostalgic the DPM one gets out and about.
The Poyer I saw a few years ago was a rifle of beauty. I just cannot justify the price.
I gave my DPM Pattern 94 Smock to my uncle recently (for helping me move). I gave him some other items too (notably a gun safe). The only thing I miss is that smock.
The problem with Poyer rifles is that they are so "collectable" given the documented low number (158 I think it was) imported into the US. The Onyx rifles are in even less numbers but almost unknown so garner far less "value" !! The L1A1As that I saw here were better "finished" (aesthetically) than a standard L1A1.
I love smocks... I find them the most useful and comfortable field jackets around. I have "several"
I know that I am old and don't keep up with all the new fancy stuff, but I gather a "Smock" is just a light weight field jacket(that's what WE called them back in the dark ages).
Yes a light field jacket of sorts, nothing new or fancy about them though Old Timer they date (as issue items) to WWII being common among the British and German Airborne types. I think the Brits probably took the deign to their peak. They are still issue (here and the UK) now.
They really were not well known in the US till the 80s when "SOF Magazine" use to carry adverts for the British SAS versions and everyone who was "cool" got interested for a bit. I have an OD green Aussie Para Smock that dates to the 60s...it would still make a fine field jacket today.
We've got a gun and knife show coming up about 30 miles away this next weekend and we just got our tax refund! I am thinking about taking my 9mm Kel-tec pistol (PF9) with me and try to work up a trade.
I've been watching Videos and reading about the Taurus Curve and the reports were favorable. FOR WHAT IT IS DESIGNED FOR. I might try and get one for Patty to keep on the night stand. I think it might work pretty well what with having a white light AND a laser that can be activated together. Using the right ammo I think it would work as a good deterrent for anyone that may try to get to her. The Absolute longest range she would have would be no more than 30 feet, mostly less than 7 yards!
I haven't looked a the curve but I had a Taurus PT738 for a couple years. It worked well but you had to slingshot the slide to make sure it fed the first round. It was very light weight and easy to carry. I liked it for what it was.
I've been thinking about getting one of the new S&W BodyGuards without the laser and the safety deleted. I have my Shield but that little .380 was way easier to carry. My Shield will slip into a pocket but that little .380 was more like a cell phone or a wallet. Now that it's gone I sort of miss having a small pistol that I can just slip in my pocket. I only got rid of the Taurus because I didn't want to screw with anything .380. Now that it's been gone I think I may just have to accept that a .380 pistol is the way to go if I plan to have something on me at all times.
Is the .380 classified as a mouse cartridge? By some yes, but I prefer to think of it as a Rat cartridge. It's not really that big but it will still tear you up at close range!
380 is my minimal carry round...and only when we can't carry a more powerful alternative.
We both have Ruger LCP and wouldn't part with them for any reason. They're ammo sensitive but after determining what they like ... Haven't had a single malf. They're tiny and can be concealed easily.
Randy - for a nightstand gun I'd look for a 9mm. The light is a good addition.
I just read the Curve doesn't have sights. That is RETARDED. I don't care if it comes with two laser aiming devices ... I won't own a gun without some sort of "iron" sight.
380 is my minimal carry round...and only when we can't carry a more powerful alternative.
We both have Ruger LCP and wouldn't part with them for any reason. They're ammo sensitive but after determining what they like ... Haven't had a single malf. They're tiny and can be concealed easily.
I also love my LCP when I am in shorts and a T-shirt. I carry my LCP with ball only but have been thinking about trying the new copper HP rounds in it as they expand and penetrate well.
Oh I have other options open for her. 1. Walther ppk .380 2. French Walther pp .32 3. kel-tec pf9 9mm 4. Couple different 9mm's
I COULD mount a white light on one of the larger guns, but she is worried about getting woke up in a daze and possibly missing. That is why I was hyped up about the white AND laser lights on the Curve. I'm not real keen on the NO SIGHTS either, but figured if I could get it right (Maybe even trade in the Kel-tec) it would be worth playing with and with her range IF she had to use it would work out to be less than 10 feet. The max range I stated earlier is if they were at the FAR end of the house and she was at the complete opposite end.
380 is my minimal carry round...and only when we can't carry a more powerful alternative.
We both have Ruger LCP and wouldn't part with them for any reason. They're ammo sensitive but after determining what they like ... Haven't had a single malf. They're tiny and can be concealed easily.
I also love my LCP when I am in shorts and a T-shirt. I carry my LCP with ball only but have been thinking about trying the new copper HP rounds in it as they expand and penetrate well.
I've had poor luck with Winchester White Box 95gr FMJ. The little Rugers just won't function with that particular load. Other brands of FMJ haven't yielded any problems.
My defensive carry load is Remington Golden Sabers. They've been 100% reliable in every LCP I've tested them in.
ETA: I've tried other HP but ended up sticking with the GS.
Our Highway Patrol Officers used to carry Golden Sabers as their standard duty load before switching. Not sure what they carry now but it is all 40S&W.
Greaser, Overall I have concerns with a 380, but penetration isn't one of them. I've carried one form of 380 or another since around 1990. They've all consistently penetrated about 8-10" of river bank mud with quality HP ammo.
This isn't ideal, but it is sufficient especially when combined with a Mozambique.
Our department got a call from it's ammo supplier yesterday. He said that he can not find any (the type duty ammo ordered) ammo in 9mm, 40s&w and .223! Don't know how widespread this is, but it MIGHT be a Harbinger of things to come. I guess I'll see how prevalent ammo is at the gun show today. PERSONALLY I am looking for Federal HST3 124gr +P or Speer Gold Dot 124gr. I WOULD get the Federal HST$ 147gr +P though if that was all that was available.
I noticed a distinct lack of duty grade ammo at the gun show yesterday. There was a lot of hand loads and "Paper punchin" loads but very little hi grade stuff. There was a few boxes of Hornaday and Liberty, but in my mind at least the liberty stuff is still an unknown. I'm just not familiar enough with it yet to carry it as a duty/self defense round.
I just put together some preliminary loads for my Sako .308 as well. Hornady 150gn SSTs and Nosler 165gn BTs. I love 150s in .308 but I also have about 700 of the 165BTs on the shelf I can work with. Both over AR2208 (I think you call it Varget in the US) powder. These first few are for pressure then when I get to a range I will check for accuracy. I am off bush for a week from the 24th but have no view I will be running any of the new loads by then.
When I shoot for accuracy I have a 20x Leupold I mount on the Sako to take some of the guesswork out
I remember looking at the tech sights for my Mini Thirty when I had it. Thanks for the link, Gary.
Andy, I wish I shot enough to consider trying handloading. Seems like it could be fun. I think I kind of group handloading and golf together. Both probably require more patience and finesse than I am willing to commit to either.
Nice GD I have had the parts for one for a while, just haven't gotten around to putting it together. What caliber and barrel length are you going with?
I didn't know you could place a pistol brace on a folding mechanism and still be legal.
This exact thought crossed my mind. I don't guess I've read anything that says you can't do it either but there's something about it that seems like it wouldn't fly. Looks good, though!
Since "braces" landed on dealer shelves the ATF has waffled on their legality. My favorite gun shop has a huge sign next to their braced pistols stating "DO NOT SHOULDER".
I like the utility of a pistol with folding brace. Seems like its dangerously close to SBR territory, but if its legal...GREAT!
As a side, the ATF has ruled that shouldering a brace does not constitute illegal assemblage of a SBR...
This is in response to your communication dated January 24, 2014, to the Bureau of Alcohol, tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Your e-mail was forwarded to the ATF Firearms technology Branch (FTB), Martinsburg, West Virginia, for reply. In your note, you ask about firing an AR-15 type pistol from the shoulder; specifically, if doing so would cause the pistol to be reclassified as a Short Barreled Rifle (SBR).
For the following reasons, we have determined that firing a pistol from the shoulder would not cause the pistol to be reclassified as an SBR:
FTB classifies weapons based on their physical design characteristics. While the usage/functionality of the weapon does influence the intended design, it is not the sole criteria for determining the classification of a weapon. Generally speaking, we do not classify weapons based on how an individual uses a weapon.
FTB has previously determined (see FTB #99146) that the firing of a weapon from a particular position, such as placing the receiver extention of an AR-15 type pistol on the user’s shoulder, does not change the classification of a weapon. Further, certain firearm accessories such as the SIG stability brace have not been classified by the FTB as shoulder stocks and, therefore, using the brace improperly does not constitute a design change. Using an accessory improperly would not change the classification of a weapon under Federal law. However, the FTB cannot recommend using a weapon (or weapon accessory) in a manner not intended by the manufacturer.
We thank you for your inquiry and trust the foregoing has been responsive.
As I had said in another thread, I got my Maxped organizers in and was playing around and found out my Sig Sauer P225 will fit in one with room for a spare mag or two. Then I went on to say...
And just as an interesting note, MY P225 is a West German manufactured gun. According to what I can find (Using the two letter manuf code on the underside of the slide near the muzzle it was made in 1988. It Is marked Sig Sauer Sigarms INC. Herndon-VA. Just thought it was kind of interesting.
Wow I love the Surefire X300U-B!!!! I had to do a little mod to the one on the P226 because the trigger guard shape but it's all good. They are a sturdy little light with an excellent beam pattern.
Hahaha don't get me wrong I love my Glocks and will continue to carry them everyday and use the in competition but they don't have the just plain enjoyable to hold factor.
You don't buy a Glock for sex appeal or comfort. You buy a Glock because you want to be assured that it will always function....even after 50,000rds and little PMCS.
In the interest of full disclosure, after 20+ years of carrying Glocks and countless rounds down range I've come to tolerate the ergos. It feels "familiar" when I pick one up.
Over the past 23 years I've CCW'd many many many different designs. I always come back to Glock.
OK, Since Arch "Went to confession" I will to. In all fairness Other glocks I've held, did feel better. I had a G19 once that I wish I hadn't gotten rid of. Now that one felt good to me. Of course this was many moons and many firearms ago.
Ford. Brunettes (redheads were WAY TOO MUCH TROUBLE). AR ......with a PISTON. Jack Burton. LWRC or POF. Glock. 9mm. SureFire (rifle WML) Tactical Tailor or London Bridge Trading. Streamlight (handgun WML) Coyote Brown. 10/22. Aimpoint (RDS). ACOG (Fixed).
Having said that...
If I had to pick one handgun to use the rest of my life it would be a Glock 19 or 26. The 26 has the easier to conceal factor, but the Glock 19 is the 1911 of the 21st Century. Yes, I'll state that again...the Glock 19 has the FUNCTIONAL UTILITY of the US MILITARY ISSUE 1911A1 of yester-year. The only difference is the Glock doesn't require ongoing maintenance to run (for the record I've owned several US Property marked 1911 and 1911A1 that didn't function).
XD - I've had them, and didn't like them. The bore-over-axis is too high causing increased muzzle flip. Also didn't' care for the pin through the slide (the same is true of REAL Sigs ... those made in Europe).
Now that I've insulted everyone...I'm off to take my meds.
Ford. Brunettes (redheads were WAY TOO MUCH TROUBLE). AR ......with a PISTON. Jack Burton. LWRC or POF. Glock. 9mm. SureFire (rifle WML) Tactical Tailor or London Bridge Trading. Streamlight (handgun WML) Coyote Brown. 10/22. Aimpoint (RDS). ACOG (Fixed).
Having said that...
If I had to pick one handgun to use the rest of my life it would be a Glock 19 or 26. The 26 has the easier to conceal factor, but the Glock 19 is the 1911 of the 21st Century. Yes, I'll state that again...the Glock 19 has the FUNCTIONAL UTILITY of the US MILITARY ISSUE 1911A1 of yester-year. The only difference is the Glock doesn't require ongoing maintenance to run (for the record I've owned several US Property marked 1911 and 1911A1 that didn't function).
XD - I've had them, and didn't like them. The bore-over-axis is too high causing increased muzzle flip. Also didn't' care for the pin through the slide (the same is true of REAL Sigs ... those made in Europe).
Now that I've insulted everyone...I'm off to take my meds.
I've read a few articles recently on the 6.5 Creedmore! What a round!
Wow, you are a youngster. That broke on the market a long time ago.
The various 6.5 and 6.8 rounds were the latest fad. Unfortunately, they are superior to the ubiquitous 5.56x45 round, but the military's lack of interest relegated them to wildcat status. Until mass wholesale quantities of a particular ammo is available on an ongoing basis (5.45x39 I'm looking at you) I'll stick with 5.56x45 and 7.62x51.
Not busting your chops, GD...I'm pointing a finger at our military that keeps handing out DI 5.56 rifles and carbines when they could be issuing a 6.8SPC piston design.
Nope I will admit I know it's been out for a while I just didn't know of its performance numbers. Trying to work with STI is a pain. I shouldn't have got this dang gun.
GD, your experience sounds very much like my Ed Brown experience. Be prepared to loose money when you end up selling the STI. Be prepared for this to not go your way, because you didn't just drink the koolaid. I'm not trying to dour your mood, but having been there I approach these things realistically now.
I ended up selling the gun for $2,000 but had over $2,800 in the gun plus another $250 worth of parts EB sold me to make their product work (which it never did) plus 750rds of 45 ammo (most of which was fired as a single shot since the gun wouldn't work). $2800+$250+$200 worth of ammo = $3,250 - $2,000 = $1,250 lesson.
Be wary of anything not proven on a mass basis. Be wary of anything promoted by a gun magazine (they don't make money on subscriptions - they make money in advertising). Be wary of anything not made by a widely recognized / standardized manufacturer. Be wary of manufacturers who make ostentatious claims.
If you follow this basic principles you'll likely end up with guns that work.
Holy snot I just got the email with shipping instructions and at the bottom it says once you send it in please wait six weeks before inquiries are made about your gun due to high service demands!!!!!
I know I've never seen it either! It probably helps that I help set up and RO the company sponsored 3gun matches and that I do lots of business through them.
I'm very tempted to try for a CZ SP 101 Shadow from the CZ Custom Shop after my bonus rolls in. Never read a bad word about them, my 75 is a reliable and accurate gun and I've read the Custom Shop guns are highly accurate.
When I saw what those run my first thought was that there was only brand I could see myself spending that kind of money on. That's a souped up CZ. After seeing a video or two of the guys that work on those guns I was impressed.
But I can't see spending that kind of money on a firearm. Again that's is LOL....
Lol you guys are bad for my bank account. I had to check Craigslist just to see what was out there and now Wednesday I am going to look at and probably buy this. https://duluth.craigslist.org/mcy/5504728767.html I have wanted another 2 stroke street legal bike for about 20 years since I sold my last one.
Barn burners are more oomph than I need for the occasional cross-field shot. I see their utility, but can't convince myself I need one yet. Maybe a 338 Lappua....
I got my .300WinM in 1983 (I was 14) and it was my regular hunting rifle right up until @2004 when I built the .308Win up on a Sako action. In reality the .308 probably covers around 90% of all my needs, but the .300 has some looooong legs that I hope to really take advantage of in New Zealand next year.
300WSM is one of those cartridges that has outstanding performance, but I'm with Andy...the 300WM is available everywhere big game is hunted. I'm always worried about "cult calibers" being hard to find later after the newest bestest fastest hottest thing hits the magazine cover.
I also agree with Andy about the 308Win. To my mind, it is about the most versatile round available especially when using a bolt action (that can handle heavier handloads).
I also ALMOST went for the 5.7 in the form of a PS90 more than once. Ultimately, a $1400 gun that shoots $1/round ammo with 22WMR ballistics didn't happen for me. I'm glad too.
I remember my foray into 7.62x39mm AR15s back in the 1990's when Colt released their version. Nothing makes you happier than a self destructing single shot AR15 that cost over than $1000 (which was a lot in the early 1990's).
300WSM is one of those cartridges that has outstanding performance, but I'm with Andy...the 300WM is available everywhere big game is hunted. I'm always worried about "cult calibers" being hard to find later after the newest bestest fastest hottest thing hits the magazine cover.
I also agree with Andy about the 308Win. To my mind, it is about the most versatile round available especially when using a bolt action (that can handle heavier handloads).
I would've felt a bit better about the purchase if it was the .308 version which was actually reviewed but Nutnfancy. But I decided I would give the .300wsm a whirl. I may just be spinning my wheels as I still haven't ruled out a .308 or .270 bolt gun down the road.
I remember going in a shop to buy some .40 ammo. They had the same brand .40 on one shelf and 9mm another. One was $14.99 and the other $9.99. That's was pretty much the end of .40 S&W as a go to round for me.
I was just punching paper and cans. It wasn't worth it.
It just dawned on me that there is a Buds Gun Shop & Range across the street from SMKW! It is touted as being the largest gun shop in Tennessee. PLUS there is a Bass Pro Shop just to the North of the Interstate!
Gary was talking guns before, Well... 22 rimfire 32acp 38Spl 357Mag 9MM 40S&W 45acp .177 (pellet rifle, I include this because it is a VERY reliable game getter up to about coon or possum size. .223/5.56 .410 .308 20gauge
With the 9MM and 20gauge getting the primary "Social Work"
Versatility I've got. But my main "Go To" guns are
9MM and 22rimfire 380 32 .308 20gauge
I can do anything I want with those. The others are for "Dang I just found this case of... Ammo" Yeah, right.
One of the city officers was going off duty tonight and as he called in we got to talking about guns. Well one thing lead to another and I told him that IF you were talking about a survival gun only(handgun) and having to defend yourself from people was not a consideration thatI have ONE gun that would best fit the bill. That gun would be my Ruger Single six .357 with the extra 9mm cylinder.
Now bear with me here. 1. SURVIVAL only, people (bad guys) are NOT a worry. 2. Long enough barrel to get some good speed out of the ammo. 3. A gun built to survive about anything, it's STRONG! 4. VERY versatile. You have .357 mag and 38Spl capability out of the same cylinder. PLUS it has the additional 9mm cylinder. SO you actually have the capability to fire three different "Calibers" through the same weapon by doing nothing more than swapping out cylinders. Now IF you were to couple that with a good lever action you would still be able to fire two different rounds, only forfeiting the ability to use 9mm through the rifle.
Now some of you will argue that the 22rimfire would be as good if not better choice. I also could argue this point of view, BUT I feel even though a 22 can kill a deer you would be better served and have more chances of "Finding" ammo for the three calibers listed above as your choices are more varied just broaden the base you can draw from.
Something about a good single action that just makes you feel John Wayne-ish. Can't help but say things like "pardner," "lil' lady," and "cowboy up" when you hold one.
My experience with the 44mag is its a slow death. Shot one with my lever at 20 yards perfect heart/lung. Still ran 300-400 yards. Not much blood trail either...
My experience with the 44mag is its a slow death. Shot one with my lever at 20 yards perfect heart/lung. Still ran 300-400 yards. Not much blood trail either...
I work with a guy that killed a nice 10pt this past season with his Marlin 44Mag lever action. He said it stumbled about 4 feet and fell over dead. He texted pictures from the kill site.
My experience with the 44mag is its a slow death. Shot one with my lever at 20 yards perfect heart/lung. Still ran 300-400 yards. Not much blood trail either...
I work with a guy that killed a nice 10pt this past season with his Marlin 44Mag lever action. He said it stumbled about 4 feet and fell over dead. He texted pictures from the kill site.
That's the gun I used. Maybe he had magic bullets. I even saw the hole in the critter as it wheeled around and ran. Found it with its lumgs both shot through and either the heart was clipped or it took off the top.
I think it just didn't have much energy transfer for whatever weird reason. Winchester semi jackrted hunting rounds... Just left me leery of using it as my go to gun...
Might make a GREAT vehicle gun. 10 rounds of non-threatenin', non-tactical, non- "assault rifle" fun. Just o!d fashioned butt whuppin', layin' the smackdown on any gang that messes with a crippled old man, his younguns, and his purty lady! KABLAMMO!!!!
Hey DT, could you load the 44Spl just a tad hot for the lever gun? I'm thinking you MIGHT be able to get an extra round or two in the tube that way instead of the 44mag.
That's the gun I used. Maybe he had magic bullets. I even saw the hole in the critter as it wheeled around and ran. Found it with its lumgs both shot through and either the heart was clipped or it took off the top.
..... sometimes critters just throw you mate and refuse to die no matter how f'ed up they are. My Cape Buffalo ran a good 150yds and my PH was already berating me over projectiles (he like soft points, hates solids and I was using something between). When I got to the buff he was down for the count but I gave him another round to be sure. Once the cutting started he had to agree that the projectile had worked as well as any soft (tissue and organ damage) AND it had broadsided the buff. The heart was ripped. As he said, there was no logical reason that the animal was still on its feet as long as it was.
I like .44Mag as a play round, plenty of grunt for medium game and as you note, it is chambered in rifles that don't raise and eye. I had a Ruger .44 carbine (the 10/22 on steroids) that was, back in the day, when I could, my truck gun.
Front and rear. Trying to keep it cheap and optics on a .300blk pistol seems like overkill
Depends on the use. Given you can use it effectively out to 200 yards, a scope might not be too much I had a Burris 2-7 on mine before selling it. A 4-20x50mm might have been overkill...maybe....
And yes, sometimes deer are like zombies. I arrowed a deer perfect broadside heart lung shot. Watched it run 150 yards away, then run back 150 yards, and then keel over dead after running another 30--just ran outta steam and dropped dead. If it hadn't come back along the same trail, I might have lost it.
Hey DT, could you load the 44Spl just a tad hot for the lever gun? I'm thinking you MIGHT be able to get an extra round or two in the tube that way instead of the 44mag.
I've got a nice .17 cal, but wouldn't mind adding a fast 22 to the mix. Squirrels can sometimes take a while to die with the .17, and I've had 2 rabbits get away after being hit. A 22 seems like it might put them down with a bit more authority....AND be easier to clean
Thursday night I ran about 90 rounds of Wolf through my LWRC confirming the CompM4S zero, and about 75 rounds through my Glock 19. Spent the rest of the time plinking with my friend's Winchester 74 in 22 Short. What a fun rifle....it had less recoil than an air rifle.
Friday at lunch I ran 45 rounds of PPU 180gr HP and 12 rounds of 175gr Winchester STHP through my G20SF. The STHP hit steel gongs with authority out to 100 yards. The PPU felt lighter than 40SW (but the G20 is a heavy gun so it absorbs some recoil).
Oh yeah, on Friday the guy I was shooting with brought his integrally suppressed (Class 3 / Form 4) Ruger 77/44. I probably shot 25-30 rounds of 44 Mag through it. He hand loaded the rounds to run around 990fps. Those 240gr hand cast bullets smacked the gongs pretty well. The rifle is nose-heavy owning to the suppressor set up. He has a 1-4x Leupold Shotgun scope on it. In heavy wind / rain it was a little difficult to hold on a 4" gong at distance as the wind would push the rifle's rather enormous barrel/suppressor.
It was neat....been a while since I fired a suppressed weapon.
I think that a GOOD, QUALITY pellet rifle or "Adult Airgun" is an excellent addition to any gun battery, specially a survival gun collection. They're not your daisy bb guns any more.
I must admit that I like rifle/pistol sets in the same caliber and I have around seven sets in different calibers but a .380 carbine to go with my .380 pistol seems ludicrous.
I'm waiting on another LMT SOPMOD stock for this rifle. It'll get painted after it arrives.
I haven't painted an optic because I'm not sure which RDS this is going to get. I'm trying to sell my Leupold CQT with LaRue mount to fund something else for this rifle. I'm going to also paint my Leupold VX2 4-12x40 AO when my LaRue LT104 mount arrives. This will allow the gun to work as a coyote rifle too.
I think OD green and coyote brown would look good for my own personal tastes.
I would MUCH prefer coyote brown over the tan, but after driving to: 3 outdoor stores, 3 home improvement stores, 2 hobby / craft stores, 3 department stores and 1 automotive store I was just happy to have the two cans of krylon I found.
Several places had Rustoleum camo (I bought some at Walmart after nearly giving up on finding krylon) including a darker brown. However, I have experience with krylon and my online research STRONGLY indicated I shouldn't use the RO.
Careful not to get a headache over thinking it mate. I have seen a good number of rifles painted up out here by the military, some meticulous jobs on F88s with brushes and multi colours (to match our cams) but the most effective are the SF M4s that were hung in a row on an old clothes like and tan/OD squirted randomly about to do away with black.
When I moved I gave away all of my stencil numbers. I need to buy a new set so I can match my sprayed optics to their host rifle...since serials aren't legible.
That was an experiment for me mate. I bought a new/unused ACH in "Foliage" (so a US contract/issue item) for three reasons, one it was cheap (came with NV mounts, ACU cover etc), it fitted me and, importantly, Foliage Green was NOT the colour that the Australian Military bought, they got Tan and Green. I could not them ever be accused of having a stolen brain bucket. The inside remains the original colour and I sprayed the rest up after some careful applications of tape.
NICE pics and write up Gary. Yeah a "Thread" would be nice to see/read. Oh What do I need to do/watch out for when I replace the pistol grip on my Colt with a nice Blackhawk one.
Keep the magazine well facing up or the little detent that engages the safety will fall out. A small spring will also come out which you'll need to put in the associated recess in the new grip when installing it.
The spring pushes the detent - this makes the safety lever have positive pressure and "click" to safe / fire.
Easy to do as long as you keep the receiver facing up.
I don't know how the Blackhawk PGs are but the Magpul ones are a tight fit. One or two taps with a screwdriver handle is usually enough to get it started.
I really like the SUPER TIGHT fit and ULTRA LIGHT wait of the Rogers / Colt Super Stock. The locking mech is superior to MagPul's too. Before paint the stock fit so tight on the RE it took effort to move.
The DD Mod 12.0 is nice, but not worth the price tag. I would explore other FF Tube options before buying the DD. There is nothing wrong with the DD, but it cost too much for a pipe with some holes drilled into it.
Ok. Yeah, I couldn't find a definitive price for the MBT other than the ones you just posted. The Geissele triggers always seem to be readily available.
After seeing your post "Before" pics and before the "After" pics I as gonna say to just finely/medium mist it with some black or dark brown or something, sort of like an overspray.
MY dream that I will never have, a 45acp SBR with a suppressor. A bolt gun would be real nice for this. Just for Squirrels and rabbits don't ya know. (Sorry DT).
I used a box of factory loads to test for function and then used only my reloads of 230 grain lead roundnose in Wilson Combat mags. I didn't have any problems.
I'm not finding a the rifle I want. Very frustrating!!!
I think I'm ditching the FN TSR. In the end the rifle is too heavy to hunt and the ammo is just way too unavailable. I could live with both issues but after a few of days to think on it I had to ask myself "why bother". And I don't have a single answer much less a good answer lol...
The problem is that I'm stuck on brands. I want a CZ but there are only three current offering that seem to fit what I'm wanting to do. And the prices are $750, $1000, and $1300.
Yup, the UHR has been top contender for 5-6 years. But now that I'm at this point I haven't been able to pull the trigger. At $1300 I wish I could put my hands on it before deciding. I'm thinking is more than enough rifle for what I want to do. But that price tag ...
I budgeted for the UHR but man thats still its not easy to peel that off knowing I'm adding a caliber that's fairly expensive to shoot. With the FN I knew the caliber was going to be harder to find and just as or more expensive but it's a $600 price difference.
Andy, I did look at Tikka. I thought long and hard about a stainless in .270. But it doesn't quite scratch my itch for a bit of a "tactical"range rifle. That's also my ding againt the middle CZ I posted. But with the middle CZ I figure I could change the stock and still be a couple hundred or so below the price of getting the UHR. I would also avoid adding a caliber so that would save me there.
I thought about getting a .308 FS for a while. It's actually probably the better choice for a hunting rifle for around here than any of the choices I listed. The only reason I eventually ruled out getting one is that I might never get to use some of the other rifles I have. My 527 probably would see a lot less action.
In fact, this past season was a bit rough. We had warmer weather and lots of moonlit nights. The deer were barely moving during the day. Getting close to them like the colder seasons just didn't happen. Having a .308 would've given me at least double the range I would try with the 527. I held a .243 FS at the shop this past weekend and while it was a little heavier I can't say it was any less handy than the 527.
Just thinking it through... I could probably get rid of a few get a 550 FS.
For years I thought 30-06 was the best "all around hunting round", but that's even changed in favor of 308. If people are taking deer with a 243 then a 308 is more than up to that challenge.
I also prefer "short actions" to "long actions" for ergos and speed.
Only deer I ever killed was with a model 94 Winchester 30-30 (NO it wasn't the first year they were made). But it was 44 years ago. I also though prefer the .308. I've had 30-30, 308, 30-06 Just like the short action and versatility of the 308. It can do Sand dogs all the way up to just about anything.
IF I had the capability to hand load ammo, and had to choose one caliber it would be a toss up between the .223 and .308. Taking into account that here the largest game we have are whitetail deer.
Now I if I were further North or out west, hands down the .308.
If you are hunting game smaller than Elk (Wapiti they are called here) and don't feel the need to be trying to take shots at 500+yds then I think .308win makes about the most sense of any round about. I have hunting most of my life with either a .308Win or .300WM and these days it is much more often than not with the .308. I like to think I have a modicum of field skill and that allows me to stalk deer to ranges WELL within the ability of the .308. Loaded with 130, 150 and 165gn projectiles you have a whole range of options for game, or do as I have done for the last 14yrs, just use factory 150gn loadings and call it good. Like Gary, I am a great fan of the package size you get with most medium action rifles (vs long action for the .300 etc).
This year I will hunt a bit more with my .300 as I am taking it to NZ with me next year as the ranges involved in the Sika hunting there are significantly longer and it is here where the .300 excels.
Now my curve balls... I love the 6.5x55 round...!!!! ballistically is is just BRILLIANT and is a fabulous killer !!! The main reason I don't have one is that the round requires a long action to chamber it. As a result I am REALLY interested in the .260 Remington and one day (probably in retirement) I will build and tinker with one.
I personally recommend the .308 to about everyone. That there is a plethora of ammunition choices and that it can be a common calibre to your other 7.62 rifles you may have squirreled away, just makes it more sensible.
I killed a moose that was ranged out at over 500 yards with my 308 Would I do that shot again, no As I have gotten older, I feel less confident in a clean kill at that range 3 out of 4 of my shots were kill shots, however the moose was dead on it's feet and didn't know it. It didn't fall until I started to reload live weight of the moose was probably around 800lbs
Since that time I have put a personal limit of around 250 yards while hunting, less if conditions aren't ideal
For all around hunting I like the 308 winchester up north while moose hunting in grizzly territory, I often change the 308 for my 338 win mag in deep bush in that area I usually pack the 308 or my 450 marlin (winchester 94 timber)
For hunting in BC, leaving out the big bears I would feel confident in the 308 winchester class of cartridges For me that list would include 7mm-08 30/06 270 280/7mm 7x57 Mauser 260 300 savage just to name a few that I have either used myself or saw other people using them
My next rifle may be a 7mm-08 or a 338 federal not sure
BILL! Glad to see you post. It's been a long while and I hope everything is going well with you. How is Pauline doing, good I hope. Hope your girls are well also.
Shot my 1st USPSA match yesterday...what an awesome time!
I went with 2 goals...don't get DQ'ed and have fun. Mission accomplished!
By the 3 or 4th stage I was moving better and my accuracy throughout was good. I got two good hits on the first swinger (luck) and my RO's were...surprised...might be a word...
Naw...not yet. I'm going to need someone to teach my son- we get frustrated with each other too easily. My wife was already to learn at one point and said she wanted to go to the range...and literally days later Sandy Hook happened and that was the end of that!
Saw my scores...27th out of 37. Slow as a sloth but the 4th highest amount of alphas. Of course everyone else would be banging out alphas by going slower- but I'm still pleased.
Nice to see you’re having fun. I used to compete until I hurt my leg and couldn’t handle the physical aspects of the sport. It was a lot of fun and the people involved were great.
I've recently become a true believer in the 450 Bushmaster. Built one and the oldest took a deer cleanly with it at about 125. A 250gr Hornady FTX has the same energy as a moderate modern 45-70 cartridge loaded with a 300gr bullet. Still has enough energy at 400 yards to take down elk-sized game (yes, it's quite the rainbow past 300-350 yards). I thought I was in love with the 458 SOCOM but this is crazy power out of a disproportionately tiny-size cartridge.
Just finished 3 Grendel builds (18" 5r, 20" and 24"...the 20" was a last minute bonus), while waiting for my boys to finish their 300 Blackout and Grendel builds, respectively. Now to scope them and get them ready for hunting.
That 450 is a NICE option. Bolt action and MSRs are readily available. Lever actions are now out there. All they need now is a BFR to round out the circle.
I took my stainless / laminate Ruger 10/22 Target (20" spiral hammer forged hbar) to the range for the second time yesterday.
With a Leupold VX1 4-12x40mm scope, and using a front rest / improvised (towel) rear rest I was printing 10 round 50 yard groups in the 3/4" range.
The scope's clarity / lack of parallax adjustment / lack of magnification inhibited the gun's performance (as well as the moron behind it jerking the bang switch).
However, the biggest problem is ...
IT IS NOT RELIABLE!
I've tried cheap ammo (Remington Thunderbolts, Federal Wal-Mart 36gr HVHP bulk-pack) and "better" ammo like Blazer standard velocity and "much better" ammo like CCI Standard Velocity "Target".
Could it just need breaking in? Did you try different magazines. As you well know Magazine problems are often the cause of FTF at least. Then again with Rugers rotary magazine that may not be a consideration.
As stated elsewhere, I am NO expert, but I have been around the block some in certain situations. I HOPE that I don't come off as a know it all, and if I ever do I apologize.
I have that same problem with my Henry Lever Action, Gary. It's frustrating to pay for money for what's supposed to be a great product only to have it turn out to be a dud.
The Flash Can adds too much length. This pistol is only a few inches shorter than my factory BCM 14.5" midlength rifle (that has a factory pinned and welded A2X ... extended A2 ... flash suppressor for 16" legality).
The Vortex SparcAR cost about $150 plus shipping if you find them on sale some place. They use AAA batteries. At $160 shipped they're a super bargain...espcially when you consider they include their mount.
The three I put on these PSA cost $150 less than the single Aimpoint T1 I have on my wife's rifle ... and it didn't include a usable mount. After I added a LaRue mount I was $737 into a single optic.
Is the T1 better than the Vortex? ALL DAY LONG.
Is it 4.5x better..... I guess it depends on how much weigh you place on "value to performance".
Added Front and Rear TROY flip sights ... $146 Replaced BCM Gunfighter Stock with MagPul CTR ... $55 Replaced BCM Gunfighter Pistol Grip with MagPul MIAD ... $32 Added Trijicon TA47 ACOG ... $882 Added LaRue SDO ACOG Mount ... $127
Total price of my "go to" AR .... $2608
This is why I've strayed away from the "boutique priced" guns.
I've been selling all of my spare high priced guns because I can only carry one of them at a time. I've transitioned into "cost effective" training guns like my PSAs.
I'm keeping the miles off the few high priced guns I have left and don't care what happens to the cheap trainers.
The rifle has a 14.5" midlength-gas barrel (with P/W muzzle device) while the pistol has a 10.5" carbine-gas barrel.
The muzzle velocity loss of the pistol and decreased reliability / increased port erosion makes the pistol a bad choice.
I shoot nose-to-charging handle so I can shoot the BCM with teh stock collapsed completely but prefer it out just one notch (adds about 1" of overall length).
Got a Ruger PC9 a bit ago and put an old Vortex red dot on it...got it sighted in...
That will do...
Even though it's a heavy pig and recoils more than an AR- think my wife could manage this better with so much less blast/noise. Plus, I can shoot this places that don't allow rifle rounds, so practice will be fun.
Posted this in the death chat, but if anyone has opinions on barrels, I'm all ears. Looking at getting an X-Caliber 24" 6.5 Creedmoor. I was initially thinking SOCOM Heavy, or maybe HBAR profile. Then I thought "do I really want a 4.5-6.5 lbs barrel?" I was thinking their SPR profile. But then, considering the 30% off sale going on, I figured "how about spending the $85 to get a heavier profile (HBAR or Heavy) and have it heavily fluted--6-8 flute corkscrew or spiral, maybe? Anyone have experience with the corkscrew fluting before? I'm wondering if it screws up how the barrel works? I want the rigidity of a heavy barrel without all the weight... Also I'd like the extra surface area to cool it down faster between shots.
There are also 6-10 straight flutes, diamond fluting, 6-10 rows of dimpled fluting, and skip fluting for straight out spiral flutes. Not looking to pay 2x that for their "thermal fluting."
The SOCOM profile looks a little front heavy. Or maybe it's better balanced, though I suspect it's more useful for a 16" barrel than a 24".
I'd like to take this out long-distance shooting someday. It will mostly serve as a hunting rifle, looking across fields where 200-350 yard shots are normal.
It will be my only AR-10-style rifle to date, and while I will build another upper someday (caliber TBD, but probably .308), I'm not likely to build many of these. They are pricier, harder to deal with, and take up more time, energy, and money than the 15s
OK, so the only real advantages I can see are weight reduction (about a pound for a 24" heavy barrel), and it being more rigid than a barrel of equivalent weight with a smaller outer diameter...
Potential messing with sympathetic vibrations though...
I have only two rifles with a heavy barrel. One is a Colt HBAR and the other is a bolt action. Both are in .223. As far as I can tell, the Colt is not, for me at least, significantly more accurate than a stock rifle. The varmint rifle is in .223 and has a heavy barrel. At the time, I went with an undulated barrel because I was unable to find any advantage to a fluted barrel other than weight savings. Since I wasn’t concerned with weight and the fluted barrel was more costly, I decided against it. I also thought that if a fluted barrel cools off more quickly than an unfluted one, it should also heat up more quickly. The spiral fluted barrels look very cool at any rate so it’s up to you. While the flutes may not be a big advantage, I couldn’t find any big disadvantage either. Sorry I couldn’t be more help. Let us know what road you go down.
Still not sure. $85 for fluting. $85 gives me a barrel as stiff as a heavy with weight of an HBAR minus a couple ounces.
I think I've decided more on a 22" barrel. Doesn't seem to be much of an appreciable difference in speed, and a shorter barrel should be stiffer. Going for a rifle length +2 gas system, which, again, should make the barrel stiffer, overall. Not sure if the corkscrew pattern (really tight spiral) maintains that stiffness as well as straight flutes (which, evidence suggests, also makes it a bit more accurate), but is the style I'm taken with...
DT, "They" say a lot of things. Would 1.5 Vs .25 REALLY make that much difference. I mean having something that accurate would be really nice, BUT could YOU (or any of us here) really be able to utilize that level of accuracy enough to justify the added expense? Just talking. I'm cheap you know, sometimes. That's why I am such a fan of free stuff!
I LIKE ordering something and then getting a little sumpin sumpin extra.
Well, I'll NEVER make it to nationals with THAT attitude, Randy Yeah, I might notice a difference between 1.5" and 0.25". At least I'd hope I would Worse still is of I choose poorly, and it shoots 3-5MOA...
Just saying, if there are 3 options that all cost roughly the same, and all have the POTENTIAL to shoot better than me, I'd rather not pay an extra $85 to screw up the one's potential because I chose the wrong (from a physics perspective) fluting option.
I'm pretty cheap too Randy. I've never spent this much on a barrel. Makes me all the more nervous about messing it up somehow... Though you'd HOPE a custom barrel maker wouldn't offer an option that might would do that.
I guess if I'm paying an extra_____, I want it to be because there's more benefit than looks (in this case, the rigidity of a thicker barrel with the weight of a thinner profile). I would hate to spend it solely on vanity. Worse yet, I'd hate to pay for something that makes the barrel even worse
Oh I DO agree that having something potentially that more accurate would be nice/exciting. I would want it as well, and since you said it isn't all that more expensive... All that Physics stuff baffles my little pea sized Redneck brain so I will leave it to the folks that it has meaning to.
And YUP, I would be scared (brownless ) thinking about messing up something that well thought out and that expensive just because I liked the looks of...
Could you ask the barrel maker(s) what if any difference barrel A would be over barrel B and expect an honest PROVEN answer?
Just me rambling about something of which I know nothing about.
I hear/read good things about X-Caliber, but when I started asking questions, the guy immediately pointed me to their most expensive (and Fugly) options, and strongly encouraged me to cryo it for $80, saying it would take care of any stresses in the barrel that MIGHT be introduced by fluting it.
Makes me nervous.
A) Seems they rifle, lap, and stress relieve the barrel (nitrogen-purged furnace) BEFORE they flute it. All the concern seems like it would go away if they would flute it before it goes in the furnace
B) Cryo-ing a barrel doesn't really do anything to remove stress--heat treat does. Cryo-ing will remove maybe 6% of existing stresses, while heat treating removed 90-95% or more, I believe. It DOES impact the crystalline structure of the metal, so it might help with barrel life and some other issues (some. Maybe. A barrel isn't a knife...). It won't, however relieve the stresses.
I COULD buy a Wilson Combat 22" 6.5 CM straight fluted barrel that weighs 55oz and has the flying done correctly for less money, but I don't know what to expect from that barrel accuracy-wise, and I wonder if the corkscrew fluting (basically a deep, wide 6-to-8-flute spiral with something like a 1:8 or 1:6 twist) would get the X-Caliber down another 6-8 oz.
Some top competitors shoot DC Calibers... Haven't heard of any shooting Wilson Combat.
Just worried XC is too focused on up-selling to be concerned with their product. No doubt their straight up regularly profiled barrels are crazy accurate. Just not sure I have confidence in their fluting or extra services department...
I don't think it's going to make the XC barrel shoot like garbage, but if it could be 0.25MOA barrel and I end up with an MOA or larger barrel, I might as well have spent $100 and got a Bear Creek. No knock on BC--I have several of their barrels For a budget build, they've got a generally good thing going.
I'll look into that Randy, v thanks. I emailed a couple times with X-Caliber and got all my questions and concerns answered. Fluting won't screw up accuracy. Cryo isn't needed. It has benefits to the steel similar to the benefits blade steel gets--wear resistant mainly. Everything seems fine.
Now to check the link you have, and decide if a cheaper Wilson Combat barrel would be smarter...
Ordered an X-Caliber matte stainless 22" 5r 1:8 heavy profile rifle+2 gas system 6 flute corkscrew fluted 6.5 Creedmoor barrel. It ran about $342 shipped with the sale.
I know that's not a huge amount for some (like Randy, apparently ), but is about $100 more than I've spent on any other barrel, and twice what I'd consider my normal limit. But I figure I plan to build 2, maybe 4 in my life, so this one I will build right.
That, and I couldn't get all the features I wanted in any barrel for less. 22" seems about the right length. With 20+ inches, you really need the extended gas tube to keep from damaging the gun. I'd do "bull barrel" if I thought I could carry it around. It needs a heavy profile to keep barrel whip down. Ideally, it would be fluted to cut down weight while being far more rigid than a non-fluted barrel of equal weight.
The big concerns were "heavy" not "bull" and rifle+2. X-Caliber was the only one I could find without breaking the bank. Ballistic Advantage is great for benchrest. Their fluted 22" was on the shortlist, but no r+2 gas system. Same for Wilson Combat. BA fluted, WC, and XC non-fluted, were close on price--the XC was actually cheapest--but only the XC meet my requirements. PLUS I could get it fluted how I wanted to save the most weight possible and to (hopefully) look good.
I picked up a Ballistics Advantage 20" 308 with a thinner profile for $140 from Primary Arms in the meanwhile. I need a lower for that one...sometime before the next election... more like before the next VA election I guess...
Barrel arrived today, BTW. It's better than I feared or hoped. So hurray! Hopefully it can shoot too! Now I'm wishing I'd have got all my parts in FDE! It would go well with FDE…
Pretty good Rich. I am truly glad that you decided to take a proactive stance in protecting yourself and your family. GOOD ON YOU! Now if more people would just realize that the police AND the Government are not obligated to protect the individual, perhaps more folks would take an active role in protection.
I hadn't went with a light for a long time thinking how my small hand helds good and will do the job...but I had to come to accept how poorly I shoot one handed and need mounted light! hah!
Read a thing yesterday in USA Today that "They" will not allow Big Red to add Gang Members to the Red Flag bill. It is OK for us law abiding citizens to have our guns taken away because someone got mad at us and "Reported" that we are a danger as mad dog gun owners. BUT that to do that to gang members is against their Constitutional rights (summarized by me).
Just proves that IDIOTS are EVERYWHERE! Specifically New York, California and a few other progressive states. I am glad that I threw all my guns in the Mississippi river before THEY come for them. It does make me sad sometimes though.
A Republican wanted to add an amendment to the red flag law that added all known gang members on the police databases. The dems voted it down because they said the list may be inaccurate. The dems a couple of years ago wanted to put all people on the “no fly list” on a “no buy” list even though that list was notoriously inaccurate. More indications of where the dems are headed in the future.
Sometime back I think I reported that I read George Orwell's 1984. We are seeing more of that prophetic novel coming to fruition every day. I have heard it reported that it is enforced even more all over Europe. Cameras everywhere and "stop and frisk" for no more reason that THEY are bored.
Another book written years ago (Yeah it's kind of a kids book) is Jerry and Sharon Ahern, titled The Free Man. Just replace the invading hoard (Russian advisors) with your invading country of choice and it paints a very telling story of how our country will ultimately fall.
Heehee! Just ordered a Rock Island 1911 A2 Ultra FS HC 10mm. THAT was the 10mm I wanted 5" 10mm with 16 rounds of 10mm. For $569 shipped, and a $50 rebate, I am getting this for the best price I've seen on a used one at auction on Gunbroker. Hope I don't drop it overboard on its inaugural fishing trip (I lose more guns that way...).
IF I get a good one, the reviews are great: easy to shoot; great capacity; accurate and fun; reliable and well-crafted. If I don't, maybe 5% of reviews hate it: it's a jam-o-matic (FTF, FTE, stovepipes, etc); chews up brass and/or ejects 50 feet; can't hit the broad side of a barn from 10 inches out; andmakes people generally angry they wasted their cash.
FORTUNATELY, like a Scrap Yard, they come with a forever warranty that applies to the gun, not the user. If, after 300 rounds (or sooner if needed), the accuracy or reliability or function doesn't measure up to what it SHOULD be, I can send it back, on their dime, and they will repair or replace it. I've yet to read a negative review that remained negative IF the owner actually utilized customer service.
1) I bought a 4.25" single stack RIA Ultra MS 10mm (8+1) earlier this summer, thinking it was a full size. Got it for a great price, and picked up a bunch of extra mags, but not sure I have a use for it (seems heavy for concealed carry and short for hunting).
2) I don't have the funds to get a RIA "Rock" FS 45acp ($400-425).
3) I still want a Springfield XDm FS 5.25" in 10mm It's still fairly new, so there aren't (m)any used ones pushing down the prices. 4.25" barrels can be found under $500, but the 5.25" barreled guns are still around $650.
I love my 5.25" XDm 45. It is by far the easiest shooting pistol I have, and the easiest to shoot accurately. I suspect the 10mm will THRIVE in that platform as well. I just can't bring myself to drop that coin on that gun
Maybe I'll list the 10mm locally and see if I get any takers in the next few days. To get the rebate on the 45, I need to buy the gun by the 15th. Doesn't leave much time for dilly-dallying...
Anyone have anything bad to day about RIA? Should I cut my losses here?
Well I’m finally on the 6.5 Grendel train. I won a Satern Liberty 20in Barrel at a match so now I’m building a light weight DMR upper. Using a precision armament hyper tap muzzle brake, Odin works adj gas block, aim surplus rifle length gas tube, BCM upper receiver, RCA low mass BCG with POF roller cam pin, Leupold VX3-LRP 4.5-14 FFP with the CCH reticle. I need to pick up a Geissele MK18 handguard and charging handle.
You're young, hang in there and keep up with the good work ethics even if others don't. ANYONE can be replaced, but if you can be/stay happy in your work it isn't really a job.
Picked up an Arsenal SAM7SF unfired locally. I’ve wanted one fire a while so I added and RS regulate 10in mlok rail and their optics mount system for a 3x24 acog with an RMR ridding piggy back.
I THINK I picked up a Savage 10SBA in 6.5CM with a 20" bull barrell for Christmas, though it has yet to show up. Original vendor (centerfireguns.com) was TERRIBLE. No phone number, never answered emails, didn't bother to tell me until last week that they were not able to get the gun and would be sending back my PMO. By that time the model was almost universally sold out (Savage stopped making that model in favor of a different one). Found it for $50 more on another site, but still under $400, which to me, is a win for a non-Axis Savage with a lot of upgrades on it
Have had a rash of shootings/stabbings within 50 miles of here lately, something like 7 or 8. I have been carrying my 40 cal sig in my Milt Sparks VM2, or my SCCY 9mm (mostly in my MAN bag). Doc has me on some pills for my back and hips and so far, so good!
Randy, Drug related? You're pretty rural but is there a population center within 50 miles?
Its a sad state of affairs when you're afraid to go to Wal-Mart.
Well, that was a bad example. I've been afraid of Wal-Mart for years. If nothing else ... from catching from exotic disease from breathing the same air as one of those purple-haired nose ring freaks that seem to live at Wal-Marts.
Its a sad state of affairs when you're afraid to go to the gas station.
Dang it! Did it again.
Hmmm ... maybe we're just in a sad state of affairs ...
Randy, Drug related? You're pretty rural but is there a population center within 50 miles?
Its a sad state of affairs when you're afraid to go to Wal-Mart.
Well, that was a bad example. I've been afraid of Wal-Mart for years. If nothing else ... from catching from exotic disease from breathing the same air as one of those purple-haired nose ring freaks that seem to live at Wal-Marts.
Its a sad state of affairs when you're afraid to go to the gas station.
Dang it! Did it again.
Hmmm ... maybe we're just in a sad state of affairs ...
Largest city population in this PART of the state is about 39K, 25 miles away. They have been having a lot of shooting activity lately so I make sure I am carrying either on my body or in my "Man Bag". I have actually unzipped the gun compartment on the bag a couple times, just in case.
I wonder why the increase in violence? It seems to happen about every Presidential election cycle. If I were prone to conspiracy theories I'd suggest there is a correlation.
However, I'm not a conspiracy theory advocate and therefore it must just be a coincidence.
1) I bought a 4.25" single stack RIA Ultra MS 10mm (8+1) earlier this summer, thinking it was a full size. Got it for a great price, and picked up a bunch of extra mags, but not sure I have a use for it (seems heavy for concealed carry and short for hunting).
Maybe I'll list the 10mm locally and see if I get any takers in the next few days. To get the rebate on the 45, I need to buy the gun by the 15th. Doesn't leave much time for dilly-dallying...
Anyone have anything bad to day about RIA? Should I cut my losses here?
What ever happened to your 10MM? 10MM is a fantastic round if you have the right gun chambered in the cartridge. A 4.25" barrel seems a little short to maximum the velocity and resultant ballistic advantages.
I've never owned a RIA but most of what I read on various gun forums seems positive as long as you go into the purchase understanding what you're getting. They aren't Alchemy Custom Weaponry Prime Elite 1911s, but they also don't cost $3000.
If I were you I'd look to move the 4.25" 10MM for a 5" 10MM or 45ACP.
I THINK I picked up a Savage 10SBA in 6.5CM with a 20" bull barrell for Christmas, though it has yet to show up. Original vendor (centerfireguns.com) was TERRIBLE. No phone number, never answered emails, didn't bother to tell me until last week that they were not able to get the gun and would be sending back my PMO. By that time the model was almost universally sold out (Savage stopped making that model in favor of a different one). Found it for $50 more on another site, but still under $400, which to me, is a win for a non-Axis Savage with a lot of upgrades on it
If anyone is looking for an inexpensive 6.5C I know of an online retailer that has Thompson Center Compass in 6.5 Creedmoor for $269.99 + $8.99 shipping (no CC fees).
Send me a private message if you want a link to the site. I've bought A LOT of guns, ammo and mags from this place over the past 20 years. I have always received what I ordered, but occasionally the gun won't be "cosmetically perfect"...but I rarely get a "perfect" gun nowadays ... regardless of the cost. I don't think they sell seconds or returns ... they just have tons of guns. I know they ordered 1,000 Steyr SSG when Steyr announced they were discontinuing the model so I think stuff is "shoveled in and shoveled out".
I've had a crazy time with my glocks. Bought a 19x a year or wo ago and LOVED it! Shot it well from the start and really enjoy the recoil impluse and feel of the gun. Got some new sights on it and put it down for awhile and struggles on and off with it. Decided to try the new Glock 45 and the same story. Put a lot a time in shooting both and shoot both reliably left. Said the heck with it last week and gave up on trigger control and just drifted the sights. Ahhh....back in love with them again! That is good shooting for me at about 7 yards...
I absolutely love my G45. I had agency mill it for an RMR and a surefire x300 hangs out under the front. Ended up throwing a threaded barrel and a PMM comp on the front. I shoot it better than any of my other glocks.
I've tried, A LOT, to like Glocks. I've owned MANY DOZENS of them over the past 25 years. Last night I decided to sell my last five. I'm just not a fan (in spite of most other people swearing by them).
Our "Special Forces" adoption of the Glock 19 just further fueled some of the BS I've read online about Glock's superiority to other designs.
I've had more problems from Glocks than ALL OTHER DESIGNS COMBINED. Granted, my round count between Glock adn all others is just a little in favor of "others". Having said that, I fire at least 10,000 rounds a year through handguns and Glocks DO FAIL.
Personally, any gun that has a known issue like "brass to face" or "brass to head" but isn't address by the manufacturer tells me to look elsewhere. A Beretta 92 Compact is about the same size and price as a Glock 19. I bought my first Beretta 92 back around 1992. In the 28 years between that gun and today I've owned quite a few Beretta 92 series guns and have fired A LOT (I mean A LOT) of rounds through them.
Total number of malfucntions I've had from dozens of Beretta 92 = 0 Total number of malfunctions I've had from dozens of Glocks = COUNTLESS. I've had G19s that actually flip the brass backwards in the ejection port. Total number of malfunctions I've had from dozens of Sig Sauer P Series Classics (220, 225, 226, 228, 229) = 0 ... if you discount the 3 digit serial number P229 I bought the year they released the 40SW guns. That gun was a total mess. Outside of that gun ... 0.
Lots of people have good luck with Glocks and I'm happy for them. I can't shoot them well, and have had pretty awful reliablity. I've even heard Mrgunsandgear (Mike) say he thinks M&Ps are more reliable but the Glock is probably more durable. A local store has M&P with 3 mags and night sights ... $329 Dealer New. Same thing in a Glock 19 will be closer to $600 (night sights).
Got my 6.5 Grendel upper up and running today! Just need to mount the leupold VX-3i LRP 4.5-14 FFP with the CCH reticle. The upper runs very flat. Should be able to watch trace and impact.
I’ve seen a lot of pistols go down. From all brands. Think a lot of people don’t realize how important proper lubricant is and doing schedules maintenance and part replacement. While I shoot glock as my main carry gun and one of my competition pistols I think there are other good options out there.
As long as you buy a good quality gun, you NORMALLY won't have much to worry about for a casual shooter. Now if you put thousands of rounds a year through your gun, in the long run it might be more cost effective to buy a gun designed and built for that kind of use.
I’ve seen a lot of pistols go down. From all brands. Think a lot of people don’t realize how important proper lubricant is and doing schedules maintenance and part replacement. While I shoot glock as my main carry gun and one of my competition pistols I think there are other good options out there.
I've shot 10s upon 10s of thousands of rounds through all sorts of guns. Some need more maintenance than others. Some are just bad designs. Some have really poor quality materials. Some have terrible QC.
I can't tell you how many AR15s I've "fixed" for someone ... by putting a little Royal Purple on their bone dry BCG.
Glocks are very popular because I think the majority of them work. Having said that, they've developed an undeserved fanboy following. They're cheaply made, poorly engineered (this is coming from someone with degrees in architecture and engineering .. who is licensed to practice both), and utilize low quality materials (MIM, stamped steel, poor coatings, etc).
Gaston Glock is brilliant ... as a self-promoter and in marketing. He actually convinced the shooting public that the Gen 5 "Marksman Barrel" (which is cheaper to make because of its rifling type) is superior to the longer wearing and equally accurate (we're talking about Glocks ... with so much frame to slide slope you can see some of the recoil spring through the gap on some guns) to the earlier Polygonal rifled barrels. Marketing genius.
Oh, and front cocking serrations and more MIM doesn't qualify for a "new model".
Just added it up ... I've owned 57 Glocks over the past 25+ years in 9MM, 40SW, 45 ACP, 45 GAP, 10MM.
As long as you buy a good quality gun, you NORMALLY won't have much to worry about for a casual shooter. Now if you put thousands of rounds a year through your gun, in the long run it might be more cost effective to buy a gun designed and built for that kind of use.
Back when I had a C&R FFL and Class 3 I would get unsolicited "industry" literature.
One periodical had an interesting article regarding the shooting habits of the "gun culture". The article cited a lot of sources for raw data, but concluded the average American gun owner shoots less than one box of ammo through their firearm per year. It stated the average non-wing hunter shoots between 20 and 40 rounds a year. The average wing-hunter shoots between 200-500 rounds a year.
I do have some brass case 308 for my LMT MWS for accuracy work.
My Ruger M77 has frequent light primer strikes on Wolf 308 (which is actually REALLY good ammo). No other 308 I've used has the same problem. I've spoken to several people that also get LPS with their Rugers and "hard primer" ammo.
Gary, NOT being a gunsmith, It might be beneficial (If possible at all) to polish the inside of the firing pen tunnel. You can tell I do not know my firearm nomenclature.
Hey another LMT MWS owner! I need a 6.5CM barrel for mine. I shoot speer and blazer 9mm and .40 and for .223 wolf gold PPU and hornady. .308 is PPU and federal GMM and hornady for my 6.5CM
LMT CQB ... Lewis Machine & Tool 5.56MM (and related cartridges) Close Quarters Battle SHORT Chassis system (monolithic AR upper system that has quick change barrels) LMT MRP ... Lewis Machine & Tool 5.56MM (and related cartridges) Monolithic Rail Plaform LONG Chassis system (monolithic AR upper system that has quick change barrels) LMT MWS ... Lewis Machine & Tool 7.62MM (and related cartridges) Modular Weapon System Chassis system (monolithic AR upper system that has quick change barrels)
LMT MARS ... Lewis Machine & Tool Modular Ambidextrous Rifle System-Light lower receiver assembly (fully ambi-dextrous).
The rifle pictured in this post is a MARS-CQBMLOK16
MARS lower CQB length chassis upper MLOK system instead of 1913 system 16" barrel
LMT's nomenclature is actually very intuitive once you get the basics down.
ETA: the pictured rifle is factory finished in titanium cerakote.
Gary, NOT being a gunsmith, It might be beneficial (If possible at all) to polish the inside of the firing pen tunnel. You can tell I do not know my firearm nomenclature.
Randy, great idea. That is one of the recommended fixes on some of the forums I've visited. I striped the bolt and the body is clean / burr free. I could have a few thousands milled off the FP shoulder to give it a little extra primer penetration (force the FP to strike the primer anvil) but I'd be worried about peircing other non Wolf primers. I'm just going to remember to not TRUST that particular rifle with Wolf ammo. Wolf will be range only in the Gunsite Scout. Hunting will have to be US made brass case.
Those green SA guns were a suburb deal! By the time I read about them on an AR forum they were already sold out. Did your gun have the standard lower or the MARS?
I haven't owned a large format MARS.
Honestly, the ambi deal is a little overblown. Unless you're left handed and ALL of your ARs are identical you're going to have muscle memory issues. I use my MARS guns like regular ARs, but do think it is a better design than the original one-sided.
If you get a chance to pick up a 5.56 CQB/MRP gun I highly recommend it. The New Zealand carbine looks super neat, but the 1913 CQB (and especially MRP) are pretty heavy with LMT's barrel profile. My MARS CQB-MLOK (pictured) is lightweight enough to serve as a general purpose carbine. I gave up on the "forward dog collar hold" that was hyper popular on the internet because it causes arm fatique quickly so I don't need 12 inches of "rail space". Plus, the only think I mount on the front of my guns ... front sight, light, and MAYBE a handstop of some sort. This doesn't take a lot of "rail estate".
Nice guys and thanks for the great info. Y'all shoot Privi ammo! Well heck, I could have saved myself SEVERAL bucks If I woulda known the experts shot it. Oh well Live (if you live long enough) and Learn (If you can remember).
I've been selling off my collection because after a ton of testing and evaluation I decided the LMT MRP system is the best combat rifle on earth.
ABOUT 20 YEARS AGO I sold off all of my Class 3: Broadhead Sten Mk5 with Original Wood FVG, MK760, H&R M50, Inland M2 Carbine, Group Industries UZI, etc.
MANY YEARS AGO I sold off all of my "preban collection": HK91, HK93, HK94, Daewoo K1, Daewoo K1A1, Beretta AR70, Valmet M76, Valmet M76T, Galil ARM, MAADI, Norinico 56S, Norinco 56S-1, Norinco 84S, Norinco 84S-1, ArmaLite AR-180, Steyr AUG 905 Series, Polytech AK, Yugo AK, Robinson M96, Sterling Mk6.
ABOUT 4 YEARS AGO I sold off all of my "modern AK47 collection": Arsenal SLR106s, Arsenal SGL-21s, Arsenal SAM-7s, etc.
ABOUT 3 YEARS AGO I sold off all of my piston AR15s: Adams Arms AA-15, LWRC M6A1, LWRC M6A2, LWRC M6A3, LWRC M6SL, LWRC IC, LWRC IC Enhanced, LWRC IC SPR, LWRC Spiral IC, POF P15 Minuteman, POF P415 Puritan, etc.
LAST YEAR I sold all of my Springfield M1As, Original Imbel SAR-48s, AUGs, Tavors, CZ Brens, Robinson XCRs, Masterpiece MPARs, Sig MCXs (still have one to sell), Galil SARs, FN SCAR-16s, FN SCAR-17s, Beretta ARX100s, Bushmaster ACRs, FN 2000, Sig 556s, Sig 556XI, etc.
NOW I'm selling (almost) all of my non-LMT ARs: BCM, Colt, Daniel Defense (keeping 2 of these for my wife), Palmetto State Armory.
Man Gary. You've been busy! You could have supplied our whole Sheriffs department and still had some firearms left over.
Personally, unless you are a collector, I think getting rid of guns, pairing it down to what you actually might need and a couple spares, is a good idea. Less confusion and more money for retirement.
These are all of the "military style" rifles I'm keeping ....
(top to bottom)
LMT MARS CQB-MLOK 5.56MM with Trijicon TA11-223 LMT CQB 5.55MM with Aimpoint CompM4S LMT MARS MRP 5.56MM with Trijicon TA31RSR-SOCOM LMT MWS 7.62MM 16' Chrome Lined with Trijicon TA11-308 LMT MWS 7.62MM 16" Stainless with Vortex Viper PST (I will replace the scope after I sell all of my BCM, Colt and DD ARs).
(top to bottom)
Daniel Defense DDM4V11 SLW with Aimpoint T-2 Daniel Defense DDM4V4 LW with Trijicon TA31
OTHER NOTES
+ All of my scope mounts are LaRue. + All of my weapon lights are SureFire. + All of my weapon light mounts are LaRue (excluding one Gear Sector that was red loctited so I'm stuck with it). + All of my triggers are factory or LaRue MBT. + All of my back up sights are LMT (on LMT rifles) or Troy (on Daniel Defense rifles).
Personally, unless you are a collector, I think getting rid of guns, pairing it down to what you actually might need and a couple spares, is a good idea. Less confusion and more money for retirement.
EXACTLY!
I went through several "collector phases" but each time I ended up with a bunch of rare guns I was afraid to handle and didn't want to shoot a lot. Then I'd "get serious" and buy a bunch of modern stuff. Later I'd get nostalgic and would sell the modern stuff to buy prebans again. Each time I was losing money.
A couple of years ago I just became obsessed with retiring and decided to spend time evaluating all of my guns. In the end, I found the LMT ARs to be the best for my uses. I started selling everything off and investing the money in retirement accounts.
I have enough parts to keep the five LMT and two DD guns running for the rest of my life. That's one of the perks of the CQB/MRP/MWS system ... two bolts and the barrel drops out. I have spare bolts, firing pins, trigger groups, barrels, springs, etc.
Five 556 and two 762 ARs is more than enough for us. I could get by with less, but I just really enjoy these guns so I'm keeping those pictured.
I've been doing well selling my Colts online. I need to focus on selling the BCMs, my other DD, and all of the PSA stuff I have now.
I'm also selling all of my non 1911 or Beretta 92 handguns. Same approach... I've found them to be the best for me (Beretta for high capacity 9mm and 1911 for 45ACP / EDC) so I just want to cash out of everything else.
WOW, those evil black guns (yeah the silver looking one too) are SWEET! I like those 308s as well. BUT if I had one it probably wouldn't get shot beyond sighting it in. I just don't do much shooting any more, just enough to "Qualify".
Yeah I know, I'm bad, but such is the reality of life.
I WOULD like to shoot more. But the closest range around here is about 20 miles, down some secondary roads and then down some gravel roads. It's a MO Conservations Unmanned range.
The SA over runs were not the Mars lower but I don’t need the ambi controls anyways. The H&K 91, FAL, and arsenals all would have found a happy home with me lol. I just picked up a SAM7SF in November and I’m actually using it in 2 gun and 3 gun matches lol but I’d love to have a good FAL. I just hate feeding .308 semi auto guns because I shoot so much.
Years ago I calculated the polymer coated steel case over brass case savings and found that you can replace your rifle (with the savings) with every 10,000 rounds.
I will have to get some to try. I generally shop with SGAMMO and make a few BIG orders a year. This week though I’m ordering caliber exchange kits for the Dillon 650 I picked up. I need to start loading the specialty ammo for long range and heavy/hot loads for action targets.
When I want to sell a high round count gun I will not post it online because I want a person to be able to see the condition. Therefore, I put it on a FFL's table at the local gun show. You'd be surprised how many people will chose a gun that is listed as "5000 rounds fired" over the exact same gun listed as "Unfired" .... for a $100 savings.
Those round counts are probably low as I destroy range records after I sell a gun. (I keep track of every round fired from every gun I own).
I say this, because I know I fired 1500rds through one particular 9mm over the course of 3 days.
Now that I think about all of the guns I sold in 2019 ... I bet some of those round counts are half of the actual. I bought 20k of 223 Rem and don't have a single case left.
Alright got approval to go ahead with purchasing a new safe as we have outgrown our current storage needs. I’m looking at the Cabela’s 48 gun classic safe by liberty with the dial lock. Anyone have much experience with safe selection?
I wouldn't buy a safe with an electronic lock. I don't care what the manufacturer says ... the locks installed on consumer grade "residential storage containers" (gun safes rated lower than burglary proof) do NOT have EMP proof locks.
EMP = either your safe is locked down forever .... or until you hire someone to drill it.
Pick a safe with a S&G mechanical (minimum would be a 6730).
ETA: Electronic locks also fail while mechanical locks rarely fail. Check the lock warranties for electronic vs mechanical. Many mechanical are lifetime.
I know several people that the electronic locks died and they had to call a locksmith out to repair. Not cheap. Doing dial on my big safe and electronic on my rapid access home defense safes. With one for rifle and one for pistol the chance of them both failing in a time of need is low.
Productive day. We ran 400rds of 22lr through her new pistol and loves it. And I got my new skeletonized Titanium BCG in my ultra light 3 gun rifle tuned. Fells like I’m shooting a .22 now.
Can anyone tell me a good magazine pouch for 9mm doublestack...a single mag would prefer a clip for easy on/off the belt? And hopefuly available via Amazon...Prime! :-) lol
I have exclusively used Bianchi Triple threat (old style basketweave leather open top) mag pouches for over 15 years and love them. They use one way snaps and stay closed until YOU want them to come off.
Well shucks. Didn't say, beyond them being "old style leather" that I don't think I like the accumold ones. I think they are like that safariland laminate crap that I HATE! Nothing wrong with it, but I just don't like it. All the deputies used that as their holsters and it works nice but I just don't like the extra stiffness it provides over the supple leather. Yeah I know I'm old, but such is life.
Becoming a Glock fan at this late point...I still shoot my CZs a bit better but these 2 are sweet shooters and I like some of the available gear like safariland holsters with ALS and the QLS holster/belt system...
EMP = either your safe is locked down forever .... or until you hire someone to drill it.
I remember once, years (wow, decades) ago when I was an intern, there was a safe in a government building that everyone forgot the combo to and for which no one could find any master list. This was a safe designed to store highly classified documents, mind you.
I watched as a guy with a crow bar and a 5 lbs dead blow busted it open inside of 5 minutes.
While it gave me a new perspective on the phrase "safe cracking," it also made me feel a lot less secure about putting anything in a safe...
...though hopefully, I'd hear someone smashing their way into my safe and be able to do something about it before they finish...
I think our range opened up this Saturday. Unfortunately, it's going to rain inches this week. After I finish painting the upstairs, I've got several projects on the works:
1) Finish my 6.5CM build.
2) If I breakdown and spend the cash, I'll order another LaRue flat blade trigger so I can finish my .308 as well.
3) Change out the muzzle device on my 450 Bushmaster (adding a linear comp, since the spiral brake causes serious PAIN when out hunting).
4) Scope and bore sight my Grendels.
5) Clean out my garage so I can put in a reloading bench.
6) Get my muzzle device review ready for primetime... And figure out how and where to post this long sucker!
Seems like I don't have much reason to avoid all this any longer...
If you're like me, you sometimes find yourself behind the power curve on certain items, like say guns and knives. What I mean is that I have often found out about a knife I really like only to find out it is no longer made. And as I said I sometimes find myself getting a gun that isn't one of the wildly popular guns (like a G19 or one of the baby Glocks). Well it seems like this G48 may be kinda like that. Then again it may just be to new for the major players (holster makers, and other accessory manufacturers) to climb on the band wagon yet.
Well one of our own great dawgs, David Brown turned me on to a manufacturer, Shield Arms who makes magazines for the G43X and G48 at least that holds 15 rounds in the normal 10 round mag size. Gonna have to look in to this as they also sell extension kits, springs, base plates and other assorted goodies. Thanks Dave.
OK, Shield Arms sells A LOT more stuff gun related and also some other items as well. Oh and Here is something I copied from their site.
From Glock:
Chambered in 9mm Luger the G48 features a compact Slimline frame and a black slide with an nDLC finish. The 10-round magazine capacity makes it ideal for concealed carry.
Designed for comfort, The G48 combines a compact-size grip length, a built-in beaver tail and a minimal profile for a comfortably balanced, versatile grip that's ideal for a variety of users.
The frame features elements of the Gen5 and Slimline series such the short trigger distance, a frame with a built-in beavertail, a reversible magazine catch and the incredibly accurate, match-grade GLOCK Marksman Barrel (GMB) and precision-milled front serrations.
I keep feeling better about this purchase all the time.
I wouldn't call my hands delicate Ray. But Short and Pudgy fingers, yeah. I wear a size 10 or 11 ring and a lot of times it's tight. Usually when I'm retaining water.
I always wanted a 357 lever gun but I never got the stars to align. I did end up snagging a JM stamped Marlin 336 some years ago but I don't think I've ever shot the thing. When I plan a range trip I'm either sighting in hunting rifles or just heading out to pop some targets. I have a few other rifles I prefer for hunting and 30-30 just isn't my first choice for plinking so the little Marlin keeps getting left at home. I'm not even sure I want to keep it at this point. I'd probably shoot a .22lr lever gun a few thousand times more.
I spent most of the day at the range. I got there a little after 10:30am and left at 5:45pm. I thought I would hit the pistol range but spent the whole time on the rifle range.
A trip like that makes you really glad you don't have to buy ammo at today's prices just to sight in a gun. I was helping a guy sight in a AR10 but we had to start all the way from get the scope mount tightened down. When we did start shooting we had some communication errors that took us off paper twice and wasted about 12-15 rounds. I'm thinking he paid a current prices for that ammo. I grabbed the rest of my cheap fmj and got him back on paper and ran it out to 50 yards hitting just left of the bullseye. He was just happy to see rounds on paper. I gave him the rest of the box of ammo to see if he could get it on the bullseye before we left. He didn't lol...
I shot a hand full of rifles and overall was pretty happy with the results.
Went to check the zero in the FNAR which is setup for hunting. Wrong ammo...
I shot the SCAR out to 300 yards with some good results. My first and only group on paper at 300 yards was about 3.5" with FGMM. Slightly smaller groups at 200 yards. I'm pretty happy with that as this is my first time shooting out to 300 ever. I'm thinking about a trigger upgrade at some point.
I also shot the Anschutz 22lr SCAR clone out to 100 yards. That thing has impressed me every single time I've shot it. I was just plinking today but it deserves a range trip on its own.
I sighted in the Howa Mini action in 7.62x39 and it looks like it has some real potential.
I ran the AK a little bit. Just with iron sights and it was boring and reliable as usual. Next time I'll setup a few targets at multiple distances and go back and forth. I would love to shoot a Hickok45 type of range with it at some point.
The AR9 was doing great but the screws holding the red dot to the base came loose. Now I'm wishing I had put loctite on all my redots.
I was mostly shooting from a bench off of a rest. Both the AK and AR9 I shot standing but next time I will set up multiple targets. I need to look into a range that will let you shoot steel.
Lazi, if you ever want to dump that 30-30 let me know I have a Marlin 30-30 XLR and it's one of my favorite rifles. I have a 16" Mossberg 30-30 that needs some love, but it will need to wait till I have time to find a load with a fast burning powder so I don't get blinded by the flash in broad daylight.
I've always sorta kicked myself for going with that Mossberg instead of a 336. 16" is just a bit short for a 30-30, though it's handy in a tree stand...
Also have a Marlin LTD Edition 45-70 that I regularly use. One of 500 made. Just saw one still in box go for $5700 and thought "Why the heck am I hunting with this????"
Then there's the Rossi 45LC in stainless with a cherry stock. Live the look, though I've yet to hunt with it.
And the Marlin 44Mag ... That one I really like. Shoot a deer at 20 yards (if that). I saw the hole open up through the sites. Tracked that deer for over 100 yards despite a double lung hit. I wasn't that impressed from a "deer stopping" perspective (though I wouldn't hesitate to shoot one again inside 50 yards), but that and the 45LC would make fantastic defense/truck guns. Something like 10 rounds for in the full-barrel-length mag. A 357 would also make for a fantastic rifle.
...and if course the 45-70 Cowboy 24" octagon barrel that I've loaned indefinitely to my dad...I couldn't bear to scope it, and he shoots cowboy action, so it seemed a natural fit
I'm getting the itch for another lever gun. I'm thinking an older 336 in 30/30. I want to build a nice little truck gun. I have one of the original Guide Guns in 45/70 and I love that thing. But it's not a truck gun. I have WWG ghostring sights and a WWG Happy trigger in it. It's ported and is one heck of a quick brush gun.
Lazi, if you ever want to dump that 30-30 let me know smile
I think I really need to shoot it and see if I like it. Plus I'm also seeing all the new "tactical" lever gun stuff and it's calling to my inner Bubba. And seeing how it's my only lever gun... And, and... Give me a little bit and I'll come up with a few more reasons to keep it lol...
The only 30-30 I have is a Thompson Center Contender single shot pistol. I used Spire point bullets in it which you shouldn’t use in a tube magazine of course but it shot very well up to 200 yards.
My Ruger PC9 had run like a champ...for the first 600-800 rounds. Then a couple stove pipes...then one after another. I had run it prett dirty, cleaned it with only a smidge of improvement. Poked round on the interwebs and read the extractor could be the culprit. Ordered an aftermarket one, dropped it in...back to perfect function. What a relief...it's a lot of fun and the rifle for the better half. It needs to run!
Had a fun and interesting range day today. Was able to get to the new club that has a range for in close rifle practice. Even though I dry fire practice with and shoot more with my higher quality AR and aimpoint pro....my older MP Sport with a Holosun 510c was quicker and gave me tighter groups. That donut of death is fast...and has me rethinking my optics! So much fun being able to transition from rifle to pistol and back...
My other range has a better pistol pit for practice, but can only shoot pcc's there.
Lazi, if you ever want to dump that 30-30 let me know smile
I think I really need to shoot it and see if I like it. Plus I'm also seeing all the new "tactical" lever gun stuff and it's calling to my inner Bubba. And seeing how it's my only lever gun... And, and... Give me a little bit and I'll come up with a few more reasons to keep it lol...
I will let know if I decide to let it go.
Haha! Yeah, I've learned I can't talk myself into owning just about any firearm on the planet. They all fit a niche of some sort
My tirade against Remington CLP over in Randy's thread on cleaning the gunk off of new knives for me riled up against Remington in general. I figure this is a better place for most of that tangent....
I've gradually become disenfranchised/ disillusioned with Remington. About 4 years ago I picked up an older Remington 700 in 25-05 for $400 (I forget the exact model, but it was a nicer one). It has a beautifully figured walnut stock and a jeweled bolt. I believe it's a 1970s or 80s make. Whenever it was made, it is a fine gun. Sub MOA accuracy and easy on the eyes. It would be one of the last guns is get rid of.
I also own a 783 in 6.5 CM that I picked up for about $250 (taxes included) when DSG decided it hated guns. When you count the $50 rebate and $30 I got for the scope, it was only $170 . One of the fuglier guns I own, but it's a solid design--WAAAAAAY over-built receiver, and it owes it's accuracy to the floating bolt design Remington stole from Savage. For $170 I couldn't say no.
Unfortunately, that's about all the positive I have to say about Remington these days. Over in the knives forum I posted how Remington CLP destroyed a friend's gun. Apparently, if you're unlucky enough to buy a can of CLP from the bottom of the storage container, you might as well spray your gun with battery acid, or slather your stock in 100% DEET. Remington knows about the problem, but doesn't really care. Not their problem. They put a disclaimer on their bottle in fine print somewhere.
If your guns melt from using their product, its your fault for trusting Remington. They tried to warn you.
This seems to fit the pattern I've seen over the past several years with Remington. QC has dropped. Pride in their product is non-existent. They seem to feel they can coast on their reputation and brand loyalty without having to prove they are worthy of it any longer. Problems come to light, but as long as they can be papered over, there's no need to fix them.
How many recalls have they had over the past decade or so? I seen to recall all sorts of issues with the 770s and their adjustable triggers, among others. How many known problems are there that Remington doesn't want to deal with?
Why is it that most serious shooters who drop the coin for a 700 know they are going to have to pay a smith another few hundred bucks to true the bolt in order to get an accurate gun? If we're dropping $600-1k on a rifle, why do we accept that we need to pay even more money to make it shoot straight? Why isn't that taken care of before it leaves the factory? It's especially galling when you can spend less than $300 on a Savage Axis, or $350-450 for Remington's 783 budget line and have guaranteed sub-MOA accuracy out of the box.
On a more personal note, I got a Remington pocket pistol in 380 a couple years back. It was $100 after rebate. How could I say no? I'm a sucker for an amazing deal The problem with it is the takedown pin that holds the rail in place.
Most guns require you to line up the takedown pin with a notch in the slide, then rotate the pin to disengage it from a mechanically locked position before you can remove it. Even then, it requires some force to take that pin out.
The Remington? Not so much. A thin, smooth pin that looks like someone clipped a piece from a coat hanger is all that stands between you and weapon failure All I need to do is slightly cant the gun when racking the slide and the takedown pin starts to slide out of the frame, jamming the gun and rendering it useless. The pin literally fell out and onto the floor once as I was racking the slide.
The gun was designed to fail! ANYONE who shot that gun during ANY phase of testing would have been aware. I'm positive the engineers must have known this was a problem. Why any company would put that on the market that way is completely beyond my capacity to understand. It is the absolute CHEAPEST way you could design and manufacture a takedown pin, and THE WORST design on this simple yet CRITICAL part I have ever seen!
I understand cost savings, but this is a gun designed to be your last line of defense. I can't trust that this gun won't malfunction the second I pull the trigger. If the gun can jam trying to rack the slide, will that pin potentially fall out enough to jam if I accidentally hold the gun at an angle while shooting, or if I need to swap mags?
Remington is really losing it. No clue who the CEO is these days, but it's clearly not someone who enjoys firearms, or even understands them. When a company is willing to compromise not only on materials, but on safety and reliability, I'm not so sure I want to keep supporting it.
Business is a two-way street. Dan and Jerry get that. That's why we have this forum. We like Bussekin both because the products are great, and because they treat their customers well.
-- If there's a problem, they fix it.
-- They have, over the years, implemented manufacturing changes that have reduced their costs, but their products haven't declined in quality as a result.
-- They are responsive to their customers.
-- I can't see Dan knowingly sell a batch of knives with defective Res-C handles because they were made with material from the bottom of the vat. If, somehow, defective materials made it out the door, they fix the problem.
And so on...
In short (he said ironically), I'm no longer a fan of Remington. Unless there's a stupid crazy deal (like the ones I got above), I'll look to other manufactures first for my firearm and firearm accessories needs (he said channeling Hank Hill).
I have hope for the New Marlin. But nothing will change until they move production and probably retool. Quality, fit, and finish went into the toilet when Marlin went to Remington. The leadership literally didn't care, so neither did the workers. It's going to be hard to fix.
I finally found a mid-sized lever for my 45/70 from RangerPoint. SoI ordered one. I don't care for the big loops and the factory square lever is just a bit tight for me especially if I was wearing gloves. I have been looking for years and every time they have been sold out and didn't know when they were making another batch.
I guess the recent popularity of lever guns has helped. I'm thankful. This is probably one of the last things I want to make this my perfect lever gun.
I finally found a mid-sized lever for my 45/70 from RangerPoint. SoI ordered one. I don't care for the big loops and the factory square lever is just a bit tight for me especially if I was wearing gloves. I have been looking for years and every time they have been sold out and didn't know when they were making another batch.
I guess the recent popularity of lever guns has helped. I'm thankful. This is probably one of the last things I want to make this my perfect lever gun.
If you don't mind me asking, what's that run ya? I'm no fan of the giant loop right, and you're right, with gloves on, holding the Guide Gun is not real easy... I've been tempted to get a bigger loop, but never wanted to pay $150 for something I think is truly ugly...
Yeah you’re hosed Rich. But at least Y’all will get the sunny side of the cell block.
Just come and visit sometime Randy...
In my head was DDM4V7...BCM Recce...but then I started seeing LWRC pop up. Prices and availability are ridiculous right now but I have seen more LWRCs which got me snooping on them.
I wish his LWRC was in 556 so it was more apples to apples...
If they get you- I'll put money on your account. Honey buns and ramen make doing time better.
In other gun news...I'm not all in for Glock...but sold a couple CZs and am largely only shooting these guys now. I put Trijicon hd xr on the 34 and it's sweet. Going to be my new competition gun. I got a little bonus for the covid activation in the spring and decided to get the 19 to round things out. I'm surprised how much I like shooting it. Put Ameriglo Hackathorns on that one.
Not used to managing the short mags on the 19 now though. They feel tiny!
Its hard for me to imagine going to a Glock from a CZ. But that's just based off holding them. I enjoy my M&P pistols but if I find I shoot something a lot better I guess they would probably get left at home on range day. Especially with the way things are looking with ammo.
I've been AK47 shopping this last few weeks and it's not looking good at all.
I always intended to and a nice stamped AK but the price just keeps ticking up. I remember around 2008 when the $500 SGL21 were around. The guy at work said to go ahead and buy one of I was thinking about it. I decided to wait a couple weeks and by the time I was ready to buy one the price hand gone up $50. And since then it has just kept going up on all of them it seems. So now here I am looking at well over $1K for firearms that I saw selling for $300-$500.
The oddest thing about it is that the cheap AKs have gotten way more expensive. The price on the expensive AKs went up not by as much.
Its hard for me to imagine going to a Glock from a CZ. But that's just based off holding them. I enjoy my M&P pistols but if I find I shoot something a lot better I guess they would probably get left at home on range day. Especially with the way things are looking with ammo.
Truth be told I still shoot my CZs a bit better, but I enjoy the glocks more. They are plenty accurate too and shoot softer than my CZs. The 19 is surprisng me..I'm enjoying it waaaay more than I thought I would. Got it more for prepping honestly.
Was funny talking with guys at the matches about switching..."What?! You are going the wrong way! Glock shooters become CZ shooters!"
I bought 300 rounds of 9 the last couple weeks...and was happy to do so! I used to buy from Freedom Munitions pretty often...they are having 9 in stock more and more often...but at 3x the cost still! I'll have to break out the 22s soon...and then head to pellet guns I guess if this keeps up!
Lazi. I used an RWS Diana .177 to kill a dozen Skunks. Only one needed 2 shots and it was about 20 yards away. I took all head shots from the side or where the skull meets the spine (base of the skull). And my rifle is almost 30 years old, but even today it still puts out about 950 FPS. If you want a “Survival or Hunting” rifle, don’t cheap out.
I was given my duty weapon for my retirement. Unfortunately, they wouldn't give me the optic that went with it. I had to order one today. The optic costs as much as the pistol it goes on. But they are totally worth it. Especially with aging eyes. I ordered the same thing we use. An RMR06 type 2. They claim to have them in stock. I'm hoping so because I have been looking for a month and everyone is out.
I like them and will probably get a few more. I have zero downsides of a red dot on a rifle. At least an AR platform and I am tempted to commit sacrilege and put one on a lever gun.
On a pistol, I find them very useful since my eyes are older and that front sight gets fuzzier. The one downside to the pistol is if you are used to iron sights (I am) You're very likely to have to search for the dot when you first come on target. It has way more to do with being used to finding the front sight. If you look at where you want to shoot, the dot comes naturally to the eye. It took a fair amount of practice to get used to looking at/focusing on the target instead of the front sight.
I will say with a G-45 I can easily hit a pepper popper at 100 yards without issue standing offhand. Having one focal plane makes life simpler.
If you have specific questions I'll do my best to answer them. I have done a bit of research on the subject and I can probably get you links to studies.
Two areas of concern: 1. Reliability. This includes battery life. To me, unreliable electronics and the need for batteries are concerns. 2. Eyesight problems. I have astigmatism. I was able to use a lower brightness setting and make the sight usable on my rifle. No idea if astigmatism would be more of a problem with a pistol. I also have a quick release mount for the optic and backup iron sights on the rifle.
I have mild astigmatism. I see a comma with the rifle optic. Not as bad with the pistol especially if the dot is at lower brightness.
As far as durability. Let me give you a little background. I am a firearms instructor or was for my agency. We tested a bunch of different optics for use on our new duty pistols which are Glock G-45 9mm's. We tested all common optics. RMR, Delta Point Pro, Aimpoint Acro, Holosun 501 and some other odd ones.
We would shoot 100 rounds then drop the firearm from shoulder height directly onto the optic on concrete and alternation onto gravel/dirt every other iteration. We would inspect for damage check the zero and finish the 100 rounds and do it over again. We also used the optic to rack the slide. If the lens cracked we would continue as long as the sight worked and maintained zero. We several optics of the same make and model on the same platform and continued testing until two sights dominated the others. We were not kind to the optics.
Two sights we would consider duty grade. The Trijicon RMR type 2 and The AimPoint Acro. The rest had significant failures. I do like the Delta Point Pro and have one on a backcountry pistol.
We went with the RMR 06 Type 2. They claim battery life is 4 years but we are changing them out yearly and from anyone using them before us, this seems to be a solid plan and it would be rare to lose battery life with quality batteries before that time. Right now I think we are the largest agency in the nation that issues them to everyone. And the only one with our current duty weapon setup. That won't last long we were just a flagship agency for that setup.
I'm not saying there are never failures and in the 650 I helped set up we found a couple that were just bad right out of the box. But that's 2 out of the 650 I was involved with building. We also put suppressor sights on them and I did the same with the DPP on my personal gun. Everything has a chance to fail. So they are there as insurance. But the sight also still works with the front of the lens occluded as long as you use both eyes.
When I retired due to my length of service they gave me my final duty gun. Think of it as a gold watch. I liked the setup enough that I dropped the coin to purchase an optic for my old duty gun because they kept the optic. It's not the end all, do all and I still like iron sights for some things but this one will become my bump in the night gun. With practice, I'm just as fast and far more accurate than with iron sights.
That’s a great testimonial for those two brands and it’s nice to know that the astigmatism may be less on a pistol. I’ll have to experiment. I didn’t realize that battery life was that good these days. My Holosun’s battery life is much shorter but I just realized I have had it for several years now. Must be quite the old model. Thanks for all the info. You’ve been a big help.
The G-45 is basically a Gen 5 G-17 frame with a G-19 Slide. It's an odd duck but it just works. When we were testing pistols it was the one I was looking the least forward to testing. But it was clearly the winner when it came to testing.
Oh OK. But I’ll still keep m G48. IF I find some locally I might even get a couple Shield mags, which I am sure will be in GREAT demand now.. Good thing I’ve got a couple extra mags for mine.
I'm lacking on mags for the new one. But it's getting relegated to home defense and range toy. My old duty gun I probably have 20 mags in different generations. With a red dot, I can really move on a rack of plates or dueling tree. It's a fun one to shoot. Plus in 9mm the recoil is negligible.
My sight came in way early I'm almost back in business. I just need to go to the range and sight it in. I should be close based off where the dot should be compared to the suppressor sights. That and I will need to decide on a holster and If I'm going to use a WML
I like the G-40. I have a KKM 7 inch barrel for mine. I want to take some time and see how big a difference the 7 inch barrel makes. I'm thinking about 100 fps over the 5 inch barrel on the G-20.
That dude absolutely ripped on the spinning and revolving target. I'm impressed.
So I did end up getting a LWRC. I was camping out for a DD or BCM but availability and prices were crazy...found this for a couple hundred less than msrp which is apparently a miracle these days!
Edit- pics of rifles aren't workign for some reason? Weird...I'll try in next post.
Only had it out twice. Today I got the club where I can do some rifle drills which has been impossible for me for years. Great to do some up drills and speed mag change drills. Here are pics from the mag reload drill...not great but for a first time I'll take it.
And with my SA Saint Edge
I was switching out with my Holosun 510c which I really like. Found out I'm more accurate with it than a red dot...which surprises me. The donut of death seems busy to me but tighter groups don't lie. The LWRC is a sweet shooter up close. I think most of the fliers were due to the front sling attachment being close to the receiver which I'm not used to...got hung up on it a few times. Love shooting my Edge though...it's super light and soft shooting. Wish I could get to this range more. It's a lot further than another and smaller. If I take a random day off I like to go here...but only been a few times since I joined in the fall. Great to be able to do drills to transition from rifle to pistol too. Now...all I need is ammo to be in stock! hah!
I've been back and forth about what I want to put on the LWRC but after shooting again think I'm just going to go ahead and get another Holosun. I really like and think it's a good fit for a light carbine. Also plan on grabbing another LPVO too. I'll have that geared for the Edge as it's a 1 moa rifle but primarily have the 510c on it.
Finally found a magazine tube extension for my Weatherby Threat Response (PA-459) 12ga. I’ve now got 8 rounds of calmness without a reload (counting one in the chamber) . Used to be a 5 round tube, now it’s 7. It is Carlsons for the Benelli Nova/super nova
Haha! With a gun this light it isn’t like shooting a .410, that’s for sure. What I dread is I accidentally bought a 15 round box of 3 inch mag 00 buck.
About a year before, as a precautionary measure only ya know, I got Patty a 20 ga semi and me the pump. Then about a year later when she realized we did not have a 12 I found it in that gauge as a semi. So we have it covered maybe.
Oh, the 12 is what I put the tube extension on. All it took was a hacksaw and sandpaper. Had to remove about 1/8inch of the old tube to get the new one to bottom out/lock up against the old one.
Watched this today. Oh and I have set up my Weatherby 20ga pump as a house gun (yeah still have the beretta as a nite stand gun). The pump has an integral picatinny rail so I put a TLR-1 on it.
Got the extended mag tube put on the pump 20ga today and the TLR-1 light (already had it) the other day. So now the OH CRAP house gun is ready to go with 7 rounds of 20ga goodness.
Put a Holosun 510c on the lwrc and did a quick and dirty zero (it's freezing today). Trying a 36 yard zero...went pretty and was able to bang out a few head shots on steel at a 100 afterwards. Nice wearing regular glasses and seeing the target and dot well for a change!
I can see the reflex sight of the Holosun better and more clearly than my aimpoint pro. I was amazed when I put my glasses on the first time with the aimpoint..finally understood all the love for their dot! hah!
I had been interested in the eotech at one point too..but again without glasses it was fuzzy to the point of being unusable.
Next optics I'll be looking at are a lpvo and primary arms prism.
I would LOVE to have something like those you mentioned, but at somewhere between a grand and a grand and a half to outfit all 4 shotguns, don’t think it will happen.
It's nice to leave them SOMETHING, but they should also learn the value of working for things. Otherwise you are just contributing to the "give me everything for free" generation.
It's nice to leave them SOMETHING, but they should also learn the value of working for things. Otherwise you are just contributing to the "give me everything for free" generation.
Well they are gonna have a little bit less now Tom.
After I got outbid on that Weatherby I was wanting on Gun Broker (exceeded my self imposed limit for that gun), I found myself again surfing Al Gore’s internet.
I finally ran aground, after striking out on about a dozen sites and found myself piled up at a place Called GForce Arms. After giving their selection of Boom Sticks a couple of quick glances and deciding which model I liked, I contacted one of the semi-local gun stores and lo and behold, they had just gotten in a shipment and had a couple of the model I was looking at.
So off I went in my trusty little white Jeep Patriot and about 30 minutes later, never exceeding the speed limit of course , I walked in their front door.
After soliciting the services of one of their sales staff, I inquired about their Self Defense shotguns. After establishing that I was a man determined to fulfill my quest for a Pump shotgun suited for the aforementioned purpose, and establishing that it must, of course, be chambered in the highly esteemed 12 gauge, the ever so cheery and extremely helpful member of the sales force smiled broadly and beckoned foe me to follow him to another part of the store.
Upon arriving at the aforementioned section of the store reserved for the shoulder fired Self Defense weaponry he gladly displayed a couple of the firearms I had told him I was interested in perhaps purchasing. After informing him that I had determined that I wanted one with a true pistol grip but stock and Ghost ring rear sight, and reminding him it must be a pump he proudly displayed the only specimen fulfilling the requirements I had stipulated. I determined that it, after a careful examination that it did indeed meet my requirements for a firearm of this type and for the purpose for which it would be purchased. In addition, and unstated on the company website the Forearm comes with a built in Picatinny Rail that would allow for the mounting a Weapon light.
After procuring a BNIB version of the chosen firearm he begin to walk up to the check out counter. But before He could begin his journey to the point of renumeration I enquired into if they had any magazine extensions that would fit in this gun. After walking to the display where different types of extensions were located we opened up one of the clam shell packages after selecting an extension that fit on my Weatherby Semi-automatic (I had already determined that the thread pitch appeared similar). Well after a trial fit the tube was determined to be the correct one. All that will be necessary is to remove approximately 1/8 inch from the front of the muzzle end of the shotguns magazine tube and screwing on the new one after of course, installing the extended length magazine spring. I plan on accomplishing this task tomorrow.
After finally arriving at the “Point of sale” register and adding up the cost of the Items I had decided I wanted I determined that I would be purchasing the said firearm, a 12ga GForce Arms GF3T pump action shotgun PLUS a Carlson’s +3 round magazine extension tube AND a Streamlight TLR-1 Weapons light. I think they made a mistake but I got it all for $475.00. I am pleased so far and can’t really see any reasons for this to change. I hope it stays this way.
So at present, I have the Shotgun here at the house and the Weapons light is installed. Once I get the magazine extension installed I will have the shotgun I have wanted to acquire. This will give me 1 each of a pump and a semi-auto in both 20ga and 12ga.
I tried quite hard to “embilish” this story for your enjoyment and hope that it did bring a smile to your face, if for nothing more than to just allow you to shake your head and say “That Boy Ain’t Right”.
Well here it is, (if it works)the GF3T 12ga with the streamlight TLR-1 and The extended choke tube. Went from a 5 shooter all the way to an 8 shot Ally Sweeper.
Ok, here is a question, the answer I can’t find. It is a fixed choke with a choke diameter of .715. What does that equate to as far as Cyl, Imp Cyl etc.
I had some trouble getting the extension tube on. Chopped off the crimped end of the tube (the first time) without any problems but the threads were still a mite to long. Sooo back to the cutting. Was going pretty good until my hand slipped and the end I was working on got dinged. Put it back together and the follower would jam on this spot. Took it back apart, FINALLY got it all made pretty round again and now it feeds like it should. Now to get a box of cheap (yeah I know) shells to do a real function/reliability check.
Now I got to determine if the stock will hold a sling swivel stud, and see about possibly chopping an inch off of it, making the LOP 13.5 inches instead of just about 14.625. The lop works, But I would just like it about an inch to an inch and a half shorter. All my Weatherbys are 13.5 and I really like that length to reduce catching on clothing when you shoulder it in a hurry.
GREAT! Thank You Ray. All I could find talked about percent of constriction which meant nothing to me. I still have to pattern it at about 10, probably 25 and again at 35 yards.
Haha, a pump 12ga J.C. Higgins is the gun I “moved up to”. It was a good gun, but heavy. Had that funny screw in “choke” or compensator on it. Had to just be a comp because it was about an inch away from the muzzle.
^^^ None of that should surprise you, as Biden and gang have threatened it all along. Control the information/media to the people, indoctrinate the kids in school, tax them into servitude, disarm the people; all actions of a third world dictator.
GREAT! Thank You Ray. All I could find talked about percent of constriction which meant nothing to me. I still have to pattern it at about 10, probably 25 and again at 35 yards.
I am interested in how you are going to get an intruder to stand still whilst you run a tape measure up to him.
Hope this works. Number of gun sales by state for January. Find it ironic that Illinois leads with over a million! And Rhode Island ends it with 5,190.
Shot my 1st IDPA match this morning. Was pretty fun. Got a couple procedurals for dropping a mag with bullets in it during a mag change...and something else IDPA specific. Shooting weak hand I almost never practice and that cost me. Place is closer than the USPSA matches I go to which is nice.
Shot my 1st IDPA match this morning. Was pretty fun. Got a couple procedurals for dropping a mag with bullets in it during a mag change...and something else IDPA specific. Shooting weak hand I almost never practice and that cost me. Place is closer than the USPSA matches I go to which is nice.
GREAT that you are pursuing your “new” passion. But you have now been placed one rung higher in “their” watch list. Welcome to the club rookie. . I’ve been on the list my watch number is in the double digits range considering what I used to do.
Put the BCM upper on my old MP Sport lower and just put on BCM stock and grip. Much improved! Just need back up irons and this is gtg. Looking forward to getting it out if we can get a break on the weather.
Competition shooter is a fun way to get good practice in. Just don’t confuse the game for tactics. But I can say the years of competition shooting paid off in the FOF gunfights I’ve been in.
Got out the new BCM upper a couple times now and it runs great. Did a bunch of one ups today and it's smooth as silk with hammered pairs. Was quick transitioning from 25 yeards to steel at a 100. Had a Holosun 510c on it and love that reticle and field of view. If I had younger eyes I'd be tempted to run an eotech...but without my glasses on the reticle is so fuzzy to the point of being unusable.
Also had the Steiner 1-4 out and am really pleased with it. Very clear glass, great light transfer and I love the red dot. I'm going to need to work with it more up close...I'm slower with it and threw a couple shots.
I seem to remember reading they manage Scar recoil and googling 510c and shotguns i see people using them and referencing Holosun says they are shotgun capable. There is an insane torture test on youtube on these that is very impressive.
Like the BCM upper so much I got a 14.5" version with enhanced lightweight barrel. It's silky smooth too and shot just over 1" with Wolf Gold and PMC Xtac...I'm a happy owner! I have a few days off next week and will be getting it out for some up drills and transitions.
I watched something interesting the other day (hope I have not already said this) but watched a guy kill a black bear, American Buffalo, an Eland and a Cape Buffalo. He was using a 50 caliber AIR RIFLE! He must have been a former Marine Sniper. One shot one kill.
Yeah I read about that. What I read said it was their most prized weapon. I also read that way back in the time of Napoleon any soldier caught with one was automatically executed.
So I recently got a shot timer as that seems to be one of the primo ways to improve as a shooter. Been intersting for sure.
Yesturday I was out with 2 rifles...one with an Eotech and the other with a LPVO. While I was generally faster with the eotech I was very surprised to be faster with the lpvo transitioning from one target to another. I was stumped as to why. The eotech is on a smith and wesson lower and 14.5 BCM upper which I'm loving as my go to gun and the lpvo is on my saint edge...a light and fast gun with a much better trigger. You think it was a firearm difference?
Took a carbine class last night and really enjoyed it. Instructor is former Army and some type of cop....big beard, hair kinda wild...talked about serving warrants...not a beat cop for sure. He could drive the gun though...did some good drills and a little barrier work.
Stepson called asking how I am doing. Patty told him I went to my Fav Gun Store while she was getting her hair don for Mom’s funeral and that always cheered me up.
He said I need to buy a new gun, and bequeath it to the grandson when I die, something he and I could shoot together and that he could have to remember me by and that would be a present from Grandpa.
My FLGS owner said he would sell me a NIB Springfield Armory Hellcat OSP (red dot not included) For an out the door price of $598.00
Rich, sorry to hear that Connecticut has once again stopped anyone from being able to purchase firearms or ammunition. But rest assured that your CCDL has your back and is working to once again, per a previous court order to force the state to open back up for purchases.
As I understand it, they are open but the process is crazy and stil getting updated. Someone told me the people at DPS had to do 5 clicks to process the firearm, now it's 12 and some info doesn't carry over. I'm hearing LGS have to call literally hundreds of times to get through. I've been tempted to get a CZ evo 3 pistol and either sbr it or get a brace...i"m holding off for now!
Ammo isn't impacted. If it's in stock...and fairly priced...you just buy it with your permit.
Sighted in some guns today at a buddy’s house. My umarex Orion 22 air gun (2 shots touching, and the 2nd one just had the pellet showing on the back side, and the 3rd blasted through a 2x4 from 30ft.
The other was a Walter PPS-M2 W/ Shield RMSc RDS. Also from 10 yards. Oh and my Springfield Armory Hellcat, just to verify the Irons were good with my carry Ammo.
Randy, how many pumps does it take to fill the air gun and how hard is it? With my bad shoulders, I’m concerned that I won’t be able to use the pump easily.
Ray, from 500psi up to 3500 it took somewhere around 80 pumps. I am not a small guy, 6ft, 250lbs. The last 30 or so pumps I had to keep my arms straight and basically squat down letting my weight compress the pump handle down. I took my time. Good thing though, 20 shots just dropped the pressure 500psi. A few reviews I’ve seen says you can get about 60 full power shots before it starts dropping off. Oh and I have found several electric compressors rated for that amount of pressure. The ones I saw ranged from about 220 all the way up to a couple grand.
Thanks, Randy. Good thing my wife is available to use the pump. I wouldn’t feel right though about keeping her home from work just so I could use the air rifle, maybe you could just bundle one of those compressors up with my grinder and send them together.
Thanks, Randy. Good thing my wife is available to use the pump. I wouldn’t feel right though about keeping her home from work just so I could use the air rifle, maybe you could just bundle one of those compressors up with my grinder and send them together.
Hadn’t thought about that Ray. May have to go slightly smaller grinder though. I do have a price limit Ya know.
Anybody shoot a Shadow Systems handgun? They started popping up on my youtube feed and have me curious. Was thinking of adding a SIG 320 M18 to the stable but went to a local gun store yesturday and checked one out along the Shadow System DR920 (Glock 17 size) and the Sig didn't do it for me compared to the 920.
The high bore axis on the sig is noticeably slower on splits for me then a comparable Glock or M&P. I know several sig owners that have found the same. Shot timers are hard to fool
I've only shot the full sized Sig once to qualify but liked it so had started looking at the other 320 models...but after picking it up alongside the Shadow Systems I knew that was off the list. That 920dr sits loooooow GD. Notably lighter than my Glocks too. I had been thinking of getting a 17 to round out the family but probably pick up the 920 instead after the holidays.
I’ve seen em popping up more and more. Look forward to getting my hands on one. Right now my favorite shooter is my G45 with a PMM comp, aimpoint ACRO, surefire X300-UB, and a mag well. Runs flat and is plenty accurate with even my reloads.
Nice. I shoot either my 19x or G45 90% of the time. Just got back from the LGS with the 920DR Elite. Hopefully, get it out tomorrow or Friday and will report back.
It's a definite "me'h" for me GD. My gen 5 glocks are all more pleasant to shoot and just as accurate. If I knew then what I know now it would have been a gen 5 glock 17 with ameriglow sights and call it a day. Buyers remorse fo' sure...
Oh wow! More pleasant to shoot? Is it really snappy or have some uncomfortable spots on the grip?
I guess snappy is a word that fits...idk how to describe it now. I find my glocks just a pleasure to shoot...I had shot my CZs a bit better but just enjoyed the glocks more which started my switch. I know the shadow systems have a break-in period too...but not going into battery well over a dozen times got old for me.
Just got back from the range and shooting my Glock 19 (which I rarely shoot) and yep...liked shooting that more!
The company does stress a 200 round break-in period and it was getting better. Think it was just harder for me to accept since it's not some gucci 1911!
Well...time for a retraction of my previous comments on the Shadow System! I had decided to just sell it and take a hit on it...but then changed my mind and decided to take it out for another spin. So yesterday I brought it out with my fav (19x) and shot the same drills with each gun back to back. I put 100 rounds through each gun doing 5-6 different drills. I'll be damned if the Shadow System didn't do as well as if not better and it felt fine! It smoked the 19x when I went to 20 yards, drew and fired 3 rounds (repeated 3-4x)- far better grouping. Conditions were pretty crappy...it was cold, windy and I had on a bulky jacket that was hard to work with and wore gloves a couple of times.
IDK if the aggressive texturing on the handle bugged me too much last time? It felt It felt less snappy...although I did have the same light on each gun...hmmm?? Ok, next time I'll do the same with my Glock 45 sans lights. For now...disregard my previous posts!
It was more reliable as well. I did have 3-4 failures to go into battery but they just needed a light tap on the rear of the slide and it was gtg. That is with 250 rounds through it so I hope for flawless running in the next couple hundred rounds.
Shot the Glock 45 and Shadow System briefly...sans light. They felt very similar. IDK what my malfunction was the first day? Just shot a few groups slow fire. Grouping was very close...maybe a smidge better for the SS.
Here's 10 rounds with the 45 at 7'ish rounds...
And the SS...same deal
Then shot at 100 briefly...the 45 did better. Probably because I'm more used to the trigger.
I was pleasantly surprised...I almost never shoot slow fire. Happy I didn't get overly excited with the grouping and then choke and throw a couple!
The SS comes with a magwell which I installed and like a lot. It's a keeper but how much more gun is it really over a 17? The groups with the 45 were great (for me) and I prefer the trigger on my 19x. I was a little faster on the timer with the SS but I don't think enough to justify the price difference. At some point, I may get into red dots for pistol and this will be the one I go for and seems to have the better mounting system. IDK...your mileage will vary and this is one mediocre shooter's opinion.
The thing is you definitely have a certain level of dot you can trust for self defense and competition use. Holosun, Trijicon, aimpoint, leupold are the ones I’d trust right now
I’ve not used the Vulcan but it’s a cool concept. The big thing when moving to a dot that helped me is before pressing out coming up higher with the pistol almost like your looking down the sights as you press out, also don’t panic if you don’t see the dot the second your there your brain says it’s an eternity but the timer will show it’s not. When coming out with irons you kinda reference the irons a little more and since you don’t have that with the dot you need to be a little cleaner in the presentation. I find my first shot speed is about the same with a dot as irons and that my follow up shots are faster and more accurate with a dot. It make dry fire more rewarding with a good visual reference and over all shooting a dot has made me a better irons shooter. I can shoot irons more accurately with a hard target focus at farther ranges now which is very useful I find in force on force classes.
It's going to take me awhile to get there..old dog new trick kinda thing.
Had a nice highlight shooting today- hit a 7 yard A zone in 1.09 seconds...never got so fast of a draw. Was in a level 2 safariland. I was stuck in the 1.3-1.4 land forever. Finally started busting out 1.2s a few months ago on a fairly regular basis. Today was a nice surprise.
Can one of you AR smarty pants help me diagnose and fix a problem please?
My go-to gun has been short stroking like crazy. The timing was confusing,,,it's my 14.5 BCM that I've had on a Smith and Wesson lower that's run like a boss. Figure I have soemthing like 2-3k flawless rounds down it. Got a BCM lower a couple months ago, had put a few rounds down to function check with no problem...then went to do some real shooting and it turned into a single shot rifle! Either failed to pick up another round or failed to feed the following round and banged up the case good in a jam. Tried multiple mags and several types of ammo and no love. Somehow had the gun very dry and wondered if that was it or the buffer spring/weight. I cleaned the heck out of it, lubed it and swapped back to my previous spring and tube...shot like 10 rounds and it functioned. Back to the run and gun range again Friday and it's back to being a single shot! I swapped lowers on another gun and still no joy. Still the same deal...failing to pick up a new round or failing to feed properly. Tried multiple mags.ammo again. I checked some single round shots and it did lock back open. I checked the bolt carrier key and it's staked and I feel no wobble. Shot some 10w-40 down it and see no leakage. Rings look good and have sufficient tension to hold its' weight. I'm pretty sure I swapped BCGs at one point when I was checking out the buffers and no love there.
I'm getting tapped out for ideas! This is my favorite AR and having it down sucks. Am I down to the gas tube and block at this point? If so...can you tell me what I'm looking for?
I brought it to a gunsmith on Tuesday…figure if it’s the gas block I wouldn’t know what to even look at. He saw a lot of carbon on one side of it my crappy eyes couldn’t even see. I hope it’s up and running soon…summer is my primo shooting time!
These 9mm subguns look like they can reek havoc on the ammo budget. Need to familiarize myself more with the manual of arms…day one was awkward. Went out again to just do 1 reload 1 drill and some were downright horrible! Got better…best times about 3.3-3.4 but am going to need practice. Was funny switching back to my 16” AR after…thing felt like a giant, heavy musket!
And they say you can’t teach an old dog. Was looking at YouTube and found out Beretta owns both Stoger and Benelli! Guess that’s why the two big B’s are so much alike.
IDK why companies aren’t making more 10mm carbines…what a great round.
That gun is…special looking!
LOL, It's Ok that gun is downright ugly. But it is supposed to shine in 10mm. I should be able to verify if that's true by tonight.
It has a very different action that mitigates recoil and muzzle rise. In 45ACP or 9mm I don't think it would make a giant difference and there are better choices. In Semi-auto. But in Full auto, this thing is almost the King of Sub Guns second only to the MP5. The Vector is nuts with a 1200 to 1400 rounds per minute and negligible muzzle rise in full auto. The only reason I say second to the MP5 is that's 9mm only and it was the first sub gun I ever used. So it has a soft spot in my old crusty heart.
In 10mm in theory and from almost everything I have heard it's worth it to buy the Vector in semi. The offset is my biggest concern. But for its intended purpose, I'm betting it will be fine using the donut of death reticle.
Well, for any of our dogs in Kalifornia, they can no longer buy ANY 2A related items that are marketed toward youth. No hats, boots, shirts etc. just look at California AB2571.
I'm pretty sure that's going down in court fast. The case law with first amendment rights is clear on free speech like Hats, Shirts, Stickers etc. Double that when it hits another right like the 2nd.
Found this place online about 50 miles West of St. Louis that is heavy on Sig items with some good prices in stuff. Just ordered some 45-50 dollar Sig mags on other sites, I paid 36.
The CZ Scorpion was supposed to be the “thank myself for my service” gift for finishing up my guard service. Jumped to soon on that end got this yesterday
A Primary Weapons System Pro pistol with a 11.8” barrel. Man…these shorties are fun! With a long stroke piston, going to dip my toe into the world of shooting suppressed. Need an Eotech too…did ok with a red dot but not what I prefer…
Those Kevlar wearing Deer better keep their eyes open Rich. They’ll for sure never hear the head shots coming what with your hearing protection device installed.
I ordered a Palmetto State Dagger Tuesday and a Vortex Venom holographic sight for it. Once I get it and get it all put together, I’ll let you guys know how it is. Basically a Glock 19 clone for $300
Yeah once you dip your toes in the short barrels it’s hard to go back. My buddies and I are making hits on smaller than torso plates just fine with short barrels and when you add cans they are still a useful length
I like the MPX. It makes a great host for an SBR or if the pistol brace fiasco is over as is. The biggest negative is the price of magazines. About $50 bucks a pop.
If you are looking for a pcc a Ruger takedown PCC with a magpul stock is pretty darned hard to beat. But it dies have a 16 inch barrel. Takes both block and river pistol mags using an adapter.
I hear ya MB. But my trade in would be a 9mm with a 16 inch bbl. And the other one either a full size or commander size 45acp. I’m wanting something quite a bit smaller, hence the MPX.
Right now I’ve settled on 4 different CCW arms, with order of carry being: 1. H&K VP9SK 2. Sig P320 X-Compact W/ Romeo 1 PRO RDS and Suppressor height nite sights 3. Springfield Hellcat 4. Walter PPS M2 W/Shield RDS
As you can plainly see I am heavily invested in 9mm.
BUT, If it wasn’t for my back issues I WOULD be carrying my: Colt C.C.O. Model Colt Gunsite Pistol Lwt Officers 45ACP with 4.25 inch barrel. I feel very fortunate to get this gun (that I don’t think was ever fired) According to Colt there was only 100 made with these specific parts/configuration.
Modern 9mm is nothing to sneeze at. And with higher capacities it definitely adds some more capability.
I found with the right pistol and red dot setup I never lose the Red Dot during recoil and it makes follow-up recovery and requiring the target very fast. As much as I like my 45 ACP and 40 caliber that aspect makes 9 mm definitely worth it, in my opinion.
You are correct about the “recoil control” MB, but I basically grew up (my first handgun was a 45) with the 45. That being said I have others that fit my hand better.
The VP9SK is what I most always carry. It just fits my hand so nice. I carry it AIWB in a JX Tactical Fat Guy holster. It makes this Homer Simpson body able to comfortably carry that way, and it’s well hidden by a size larger T-shirt. I have a 15 round mag in the gun and carry one spare.
Next would be my Sig P320. Sometime before or for Christmas I’m gonna get a Fat Guy holster for it and start carrying it more often.
The other two are just good smaller carry guns but don’t get carried that much by me although I do carry the Walther more than the Hellcat Cause the Walther has an RDS.
I do agree with you about the “knock down power” of the 9mm with the advances in ammo. Plus weight for weight you can carry more 9mm than .45acp. Even though personally I wouldn’t want to be hit by one, several “experts” say 9mm can be effective out to 100 yards and even more depending on clothing being worn by the bad guy. That’s what Garand Thumb said when he was testing out the MPX Copperhead (at least the one with the 4.5 inch bbl).
I ALMOST pulled the Trigger on a CMMG Mk17 BANSHEE. But that is a lot of money for something that mostly qualified as eye candy and I DON’T HAVE ONE. So after much soul searching and trying to do the “adult” thing, I’ve decided to keep my Beretta CX4/PX4 Storm combo and just upgrade the sights. I’m thinking about the Aimpoint ACO or the Pro. Either one would look good and work real nice in the Carbine. And it will leave something left over to buy some more magazines and Freedom Seeds.
Sorry to disappoint. BUT I did stumble upon something.
Walked into a GS I haven’t visited for a while during the time Patty was getting her hair done. I NEVER SHOULD HAVE WENT.
While carousing around in the store my eyes detected a PCC by a popular manufacturer named on sale. Well knowing the brand was a good one I asked to look at it. The store clerk calmly reached on the wall and removed said firearm, and after checking the mag and chamber insuring it was in fact unloaded, handed it to me. Upon getting it into my greedy little hands I began to fondl I mean appraise her attributes.
She sported a good quality folding brace that latched firmly into position with VERY little wobble, but being polymer there was some. Moving on forward I noticed very positive ambidextrous safety levers. She also had a set of Magpul MBUIS front and rear sights with a 20 round mag hanging out of the mag well. Oh and she also had a Magpul hand stop (?) attached to the very front of the M-LOK short aluminum HB Industries rail covering the full free floating 4.2 inch barrel. And on the very end of the muzzle (threaded 1/2x28) was a flash mitigator of sorts.
I looked around some more and came back to her beckoning siren call and once again asked if I might have the privilege of admiring her short statured handiness.
After this further, more detailed admiration of all she had to offer, I at last succumbed to her irresistible allure and agreed to provide her a home where she would be much Loved, used and yes, even possibly abused. BUT I could tell she relished the challenges that our union promised to bring.
So as I walked out the door with my new CZ Scorpion EVO 3 S2 , and with my wallet being lightened by an outstandingly good deal of almost a couple of C notes under 1k, I just smiled as I ever so gently set her in the seat of our SUV. Now to start treating her like a cheap Hooker.
Actually I plan on replacing my H&K VP9 house gun with the Scorpion. Hear me out now. First my eyesight is not the same since my cataract surgery. I can see at a distance but require reading glasses (over the counter)up close. So with conventional sights it is difficult for me to get a good sight picture with conventional iron sights. The H&K pistol is not Optical Sight Ready, so that’s out. The Magpul sights do allow me to get a good and rapid sight picture, so therefore the change. And being such a short gun the “time to target” between the HK and the Scorpion is so short the difference is unnoticeable to me.
But, having a Picatinny rail on top I plan on installing an optic. Right now I am torn between the Primary Arms Slx 1 Prisim sight and an aim point PRO, ACO, or the DUTY RDS. I know Aimpoint is Top Of The Line, but the price still bugs me. The PA is a Prisim scope with an etched reticule that can been seen even without battery power. Plus MANY folks are comparing it to quality and robustness that equals the ACOG.
Please pitch in on what Y’all think about the PA scope. So far MAC, Garand Thumb and Mr. Gunsngear have all touted the quality and toughness along with some lesser known YouTube posters I’ve seen.
I sure hope so Ray. I can acquire the sights easier/faster with the peep and post sights. I have always had trouble with regular pistol sights. EVERYTHING I shoot is always to the left when I first get the gun.
I want a sling of course, But not sure if I need/want a single point or dual point sling. It is so short I think a single point might be just fine, but… Magpul makes an MS4 single point sling that can be converted to a 2 point setup so that might be what I’ll go for.
I am also going to get conversion rails to go from M-lock to Picatinny rail so I can mount my weapon light and a QD mount on the front as well, in case I do go to a dual mount sling. Well I guess I could use a M-Lok mount for the swivel mount on one side and Picatinny on the other.
I have already ordered a new pistol grip for it cause the grip angle at present is kinda wonky for me. And I also am thinking about going to a shorter set of ambi safety levers as well.
And I am Still up in the air about a sight. RDS really appeal to me because of my eyes but I have to keep the intensity very low or the dot starts to “bloom out” on me, meaning it’s really fuzzy. Because if that I am thinking really hard about the Primary Arms SLx 1 power Prism scope. I would like the 3 power but think it might be to much for close range 3-15 yards. Over all I consider this a 50 yard gun, maximum. Anything over that I have other options.
I like my aim point patrol rifle optic. Its basic but its tough and works.
If you are using it for HD and not a hard use field gun take a look at Holosun. I want to hate them but I can't. I wouldn't use it on a work gun. But an HD for sure. Plenty if people are using the 507s on ccw pistols and liking them.
I’ve gone a little nuts with this Scorpion. I have ALWAYS wanted a small “Subgun”. Guess it’s from watching all those Violent cartoons like Road Runner, Foghorn Leghorn, Yosemite Sam Bugs Bunny, well you get the point.
Anywho, I paid 855 (with my military discount) for the gun with SB Tactical folding stock, Magpul flip up MBUIS sights, 4.12 inch barrel, 2 20 round factory mags, and a KAK Industries flash can. Oh and it also came with a small cleaning kit. AND I FORGOT, it came with a factory rebate of 100 dollars! And Yes, I applied for that within an hour of getting home!
The owner has had the gun for some time (he was stuck with it when the ATF said that they had decided after Braces being legal for MANY MANY years they were going to make them illegal). And since it was the only one he had left he didn’t want to take a chance of getting stuck with it again.
Friday I ordered a Magpul grip and 3 Magpul 35 round mags. Next week (when they verify my Military Retirement) I’m getting ready to order:
Magpul MS4 Sling Juggernaut Tactical Flash Can (longer than the one on the gun, so it will be better to keep muzzle blast off my hand and flashlight I’m gonna use (my Streamlight TLR-7 or the HL version). Plus it’s got a “striking” bezel on it Strike industries CZ Scorpion short ambi Safety Selector Switches Law Valley Precision M-LOK rail section Magpul M-LOK AFG angled fore grip
This, as I’ve said is my (OK, ONE of) my Grail Guns. The only thing that would make it better would be a suppressor. I don’t really see that happening, But who knows.
Now, you’re asking yourself why are you going with products that I’ve never heard of before. Well that’s because I found everything I wanted from this one site, so I didn’t have to order from several different places.
Randy, check out Palmetto State. They have 35 rounders for their AK-V 9mm Ak line that are supposed to be Scorpion compatible and they're under $20. I'm thinking 16-17 bucks.