The 2026 Southwest Nationals match takes place February 11-15, 2026 at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility in Phoenix. So many of our readers will be on the road headed to Arizona this week, with one or more match rifles in their cars or trucks. When crossing into different states with guns in a vehicle, you need to be mindful of all state and local laws and restrictions.
Five Worst States for Traveling with Firearms
This article appears in the Cheaper Than Dirt Shooter’s Log.
The U.S. is a patchwork of confusing and cumbersome laws that change the rules of what you can carry, where you can carry, and whether you can possess the firearm, ammunition of magazine at without running afoul of the local laws. Now, if every state was like Vermont, law abiding gun owners could freely travel with their firearms with no worries. Unfortunately, many states have a history of being hostile to traveling gun owners.
The federal “Firearms Owner Protection Act” allows travel through any state as long as the firearm is unloaded, in a locked case, and not easily accessible to the passengers. However, that is not to say that certain states that are less friendly to firearms have not created their own laws that would snare unsuspecting otherwise law-abiding firearm owners. This led us to name the Top 5 States to Avoid while traveling with a firearm this holiday season.
CONNECTICUT
Connecticut does not have any gun reciprocity agreements with other states. This means nonresidents are not allowed to carry handguns in Connecticut under a permit issued by another state.
HAWAII
Every person arriving into the state who brings a firearm of any description, usable or not, shall register the firearm within three days of the arrival of the person or the firearm, whichever arrives later, with the chief of police of the county where the person will reside, where their business is, or the person’s place of sojourn. GET Hawaii Firearms INFO HERE.
MASSACHUSETTS
Massachusetts imposes harsh penalties on the mere possession and transport of firearms without a license to carry. Prospective travelers are urged to contact the Massachusetts Firearms Records Bureau at (617) 660-4780 or contact the State Police. GET Massachusetts Firearms INFO HERE.
NEW JERSEY
New Jersey has some of the most restrictive firearms laws in the country. Your firearm must be unloaded, in a locked container, and not accessible in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The New Jersey Supreme Court ruled that anyone traveling within the state is deemed to be aware of these regulations and will be held strictly accountable for violations. If you’re traveling through New Jersey, you need to comply with state laws on firearm transport, which are very strict. GET New Jersey Firearms INFO HERE provided by a New Jersey legal team.
NEW YORK
Use extreme caution when traveling through New York state with firearms. New York’s general approach is to make the possession of handguns and so-called “assault weapons” illegal. A number of localities, including Albany, Buffalo, New York City, Rochester, Suffolk County, and Yonkers, impose their own requirements on the possession, registration, and transport of firearms. Possession of a handgun within New York City requires a New York City handgun license or a special permit from the city Police Commissioner. This license validates a state license within the city. Even New York state licenses are generally not valid within New York City unless a specific exemption applies. Possession of a shotgun or rifle within New York City requires a permit, which is available to non-residents, and a certificate of registration.
More Scary States for Gun Owners
Here are six other jurisdictions (five states and DC) where you need to be wary when traveling. California, for example, treats all handguns in vehicles as “loaded” if there is ammunition loaded into an attached magazine. It’s wise, when in California, to have handguns unloaded in a LOCKED case, with all ammunition or magazines in a separate section of the vehicle. These states (and DC) all have laws that can trap unsuspecting gun-owners. Be wary.
California
Delaware
Dist. of Columbia
Illinois
Maryland
Rhode Island
Today’s Saturday Movies article spotlights dozens of new handguns, most of which were displayed at SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas. These new pistols range from ultra-lightweight carry pistols to big, long-barreled guns designed for IPSC and speed-shooting matches. Nearly all major makers have pistols featured in these videos, with new handguns from Beretta, Canik, CZ, FN, Glock, KelTec, Kimber, Ruger, SIG Sauer, Smith & Wesson, Springfield Armory, Staccato, STI, Walther and more. Many of these videos include outdoor range testing footage as well as coverage from SHOT Show.
30 New Handguns from SHOT Show 2026
In this 17-minute video, our friends at GunsAmerica examine 30 new handguns, from striker-fired carry guns to all-metal competition pistols. The video also features revolvers, 2011s, and some truly wild new designs. Featured brands include: Alpha Foxtrot, Archon, Beretta, Bersa, Chiappa Rhino, CZ, Flux Defense, KelTec, Kimber, Laugo Arms, OA Defense, Ride Out Arsenal, Ross Martin, SAR, SIG Sauer, Smith & Wesson, Springfield, and STI with some brands having multiple offerings.
Timestamp
0:19 – 0:57 Ross Martin
0:57 – 1:35 Chiappa Rhino
1:35 – 2:03 SAR
2:03 – 3:24 Springfield
3:24 – 4:09 KelTec
4:09 – 5:09 Archon
5:09 – 5:49 Rideout Arsenal
5:49 – 8:05 Smith & Wesson
8:05 – 10:26 Bersa
18 New Handguns (or Pistol Kits) at SHOT Show 2026
This 55-minute video covers 18 pistol products displayed at SHOT Show 2026. There is a vast selection of semi-auto handguns plus a couple build kits and revolver frames. All the footage from this video was taken indoors at SHOT Show at the display booths. There is no supplemental video of pistols being shot at a range.
NOTE — If you want to see something truly radical and unique, check out the Third Bay “Ounce” folding rimfire pistol — one of the lightest-weight carry pistols ever created (see 18:33 time-mark and photo right). This folding handgun weighs about 8 ounces as loaded with ten .22 LR rounds.
Timestamp
02:17 – The Zermatt Waltz
07:49 – Staccato C4X
10:11 – Miller Precision
14:26 – Ride Out Arsenal Dragon
18:33 – Third Bay Ounce .22LR
20:19 – Jacob Grey Nox 9
Timestamp
39:47 – SDS Model 2035
41:28 – Canik Radian Prime
42:47 – PSA Sabre 11
44:31 – Midwest Industries
46:03 – Shadow Systems Axio
51:09 – Glock Gen 6
Top 15 New Handguns at SHOT Show 2026
In this video, God Family and Guns explores 15 new handguns from SHOT Show 2026. The video showcases a diverse range of firearms, from classic designs to innovative new models. A personal perspective is offered, comparing different features and price points.
14 New Pistols at SHOT Show 2026
This video covers 14 new handguns, ranging from tiny micro-compacts to full-size duty pistols. This 52-minute video covers all 14 guns, examining their triggers, optics-ready slides, integrated compensators, magazines and other features. Whether you’re into concealed carry, competition shooting, or home defense, this line-up provides a wide range of options. Here are the video time-marks for the 14 pistols:
Timestamp
00:33 — SIG Sauer P365 XMacro Comp
04:02 — Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro OSP
08:00 — Glock 43X MOS Gen 2
12:02 — Smith & Wesson M&P9 M2.0 Carry Comp
16:02 — Walther PDP Pro-E
19:33 — CZ P-10F Optics-Ready 2026
23:21 — FN 509 Tactical Limelight
Timestamp
27:05 — Beretta APX A1 Carry
30:34 — Staccato C2 DPO
33:50 — Canik Rival S Extreme
37:17 — Shadow Systems CR920 Combat
40:58 — Ruger LCR in .32 H&R Magnum
44:22 — Kel-Tec P17 Competition .22 LR
47:52 — Hudson H9A
Steyr ATD Pistol and ATC Comp Pistol
Steyr Arms released some impressive pistols at SHOT Show 2026 — the new ATD and ATC models. The ATD is for general defensive use while the ATC models are designed for rapid-fire competition, so the ATCs boast light triggers and steel frames. The ATC comes in three models: ATC Base, ATC Rock with 5″ Barrel and ported slide, and ATC ROCK with with longer 6″ barrel plus ported slide. STEYR ARMS developed the ATC series to meet the stringent requirements of IPSC, PPC (Police Pistol Combat), and USPC (U.S. Practical Shooting) competition. The new Steyr ATD and ATC pistols are covered in this Firearms Blog TV video, with the ATC Rock models featured in the lead photo for today’s Video Showcase.
Top 7 Concealed Carry Pistols for 2026
This video covers seven pistols suitable for concealed carry. The featured handguns are: Kimber CDS9 Classic; Taurus GX2; Heckler & Koch (HK) CC9; Springfield Armory Echelon 4.0C Comp; Canik Mete MC9 L; SIG Sauer P211-GT4 Carry; and Glock 19 Gen 6. The price range is very significant among these models, starting at $269.99 for the Taurus GX2. And some of the pistols, to be honest, are really bigger and heavier than optimal for everyday carry.
Hornady will host the Zombies in the Heartland 3-Gun Match, May 29-31, 2026, at the Heartland Public Shooting Park in Grand Island, Nebraska. This is one of the nation’s most popular multi-gun reactive targets match. It attracts 400+ competitors each year. For complete event information, visit the official Zombies in the Heartland website or follow the Zombies in the Heartland Facebook page.
With an unusual and challenging course of fire, Zombies in the Heartland attracts shooters from across the country. Shooters will find exciting new reactive targets developed specifically for this match, with most targets breaking, falling over, or moving. Most participants will compete with a pistol, rifle, and shotgun. Alternatively, shooters can compete with a pistol-caliber carbine and shotgun in the PCC Division.
Reserve lodging at Best Western Plus, 2707 S. Locust Road, Grand Island, NE. Call (308) 675-5656 and mention Zombies match for reduced rates.
2025 Zombies in the Heartland 3-Gun Match Highlights
Ten competitive stages mimicking post-apocalyptic situations were featured. Professional and amateur shooters from across the country enjoyed specially developed reactive zombie targets. The Heartland Zombies match is a veritable theme park for shootists, with many fun stages and innovative targets. Many unique, reactive zombie targets have been developed specifically for this match. The use of paper targets has been minimized — so it’s mostly “bang and clang”. Rifles, pistols, and shotguns are used on most stages. There were also fun side-matches. Watch the video above to see this year’s action.
MTM Case-Gard has just introduced a new foam-padded case for the popular Garmin Xero C1 Pro radar chronograph. This new MTM CCXERO Case holds the Xero C1 securely in a foam section, with a separate section for the tripod, charging wires, and other gear. With a $14.50 MSRP, this new case is very affordable and looks quite sturdy. We predict it will become quite popular with Garmin chrono owners. If you have an Athlon Rangecraft Radar Chronograph, this MTM Case might work but would require some foam trimming.*
MTM states: “The new MTM Case-Gard Chronograph Case (CCXERO) delivers secure, custom-fit protection for the popular Garmin Xero chronograph. Inside, precision-cut foam cradles the chronograph and its accessories for reliable transport and storage. A hard-shell exterior shields against impacts and debris, while the compact, dark earth design makes it easy to grab, stow, or stack.” MTM Case-Gard CEO Steve Minneman added: “The Chronograph Case was built to match the precision of the equipment it protects — because serious shooters deserve serious gear protection.”
MTM Case-Gard Chronograph Case (CCXERO) Key Features:
Custom-fit foam holds Garmin Xero and accessories
Hard-shell construction for superior protection
Ideal for storage or transport
Rugged, purpose-built design
Compact and portable
Garmin Chrono Carry Case Options on Amazon
Here are two more compact carry cases that can hold the Garmin Xero C1 and its small bipod. There is the $29 waterproof Pelican 1040 case on the left and the $15 zippered Paiyule case on the right. Both are available on Amazon. The Payuile case is similar to the new MTM CCXERO case inside, but is somewhat smaller and comes in four colors: tan, black, black/brown, and black/orange.
* Garmin vs. Athlon Chrono Sizes: The Athlon Rangecraft chronograph is slightly larger and heavier than the Garmin Xero C1 Pro. The Athlon Rangecraft measures approximately 3.5″ x 2.7″ x 1.2″, while the Garmin is smaller at roughly 3″ x 2″ x 1.7″.
Today we feature a great video about firearms crafting produced by Beretta, a legendary Italian gun-maker. Founded in 1526, 500 years ago, Beretta has remained under family leadership for 16 generations. This year Fabbrica d’Armi Pietro Beretta celebrates 500 years as the world’s oldest, continuously-operating firearm manufacturer, founded in 1526 in Gardone Val Trompia, Italy. The five-century celebration started with a major event at SHOT Show 2026.
Video set to auto-play. Click speaker icon to hear sound.
Today’s featured movie, entitled “Human Technology”, is one of most impressive videos we’ve ever featured on this site. It’s that good. You’ll see an amazing blend of modern technology along with old-world artisanship — “a mesmerizing meld of the high-tech and the traditional”. (Daniel Xu, Outdoor Hub.)
“Human Technology is a singular and symbolic movie, its cast entirely made up of Beretta workmen, thus illustrating the perfect synthesis between craftsmanship and technology,” Beretta writes. This artistic movie by Ancarani Studio illustrates all the aspects of the manufacturing of a high-end Beretta shotgun. This video is a study in contrast. The movements of robotic assembly machines are juxtaposed with the centuries-old craftsmanship of stock carvers. Beautifully filmed and edited, this video should amaze and entertain anyone who loves fine firearms. (Full-screen HD Recommended.)
Beretta — Incredible history. Beretta was founded in 1526, five centuries ago. Remarkably, the enterprise is still owned by the Beretta family.
Beretta is now a huge gun industry company — the Beretta Holding Group now owns Sako, Tikka, Burris, Steiner, and Norma. Sako and Tikka were acquired in 2000, Burris Optics in 2002, and Beretta added Steiner-Optik and Norma via RUAG Ammotec. Beretta Holding provides a complete range of firearms, optics, and ammunition through these and a dozen other brands.
Smart gun owners know they need a good, solid gun safe. But when choosing a gun safe, what kind of lock should you select — electronic or mechanical? Both types have their advantages and disadvantages. This article will help you make the right choice for your needs and also get the most reliable performance from either type.
Gunsafes can be fitted with either an electronic keypad-style lock, or a conventional dial lock. In our Gunsafe Buyer’s Guide, we explain the important features of both dial and electronic lock systems. Many safe-makers will tell you that consumers prefer electronic locks for convenience. On the other hand, most of the locksmiths we’ve polled believe that the “old-fashioned” dial locks, such as the Sargent & Greenleaf model 6730, will be more reliable in the long run. CLICK HERE to learn more about the Pros and Cons of Mechanical (dial) Lock vs. Electronic (keypad) safe locking systems.
One safe supplier, The Safe Keeper, notes that mechanical (dial) locks tend to be more reliable over long periods: “When it comes to reliability, a mechanical lock is the way to go. Anything electronic is designed to fail sooner or later. For every 20 broken electronic locks we will get one mechanical. Bottom line is, it’s not that complicated to input a combination on a mechanical lock. Those extra 7 seconds just might save you from being locked out and having your safe drilled opened.”
This Liberty Safe video compares Mechanical (dial or key) vs. Electronic (keypad) safe locking systems.
Here is the opinion of RFB from Michigan. He is a professional locksmith with over two decades of experience servicing locks and safes of all brands and types:
What a Professional Locksmith Says:
For the convenience of quick opening, the electronic locks can’t be beat. However, for endurance and years of trouble-free use, the electronics can’t compare with the dial lock.
I’ve earned my living, the past 22 years, servicing locks of all types. This includes opening safes that can’t otherwise be opened. I do warranty work for several safe manufacturers (including Liberty). What I’ve learned in all those years is that manual dial locks have very few problems. The most common is a loose dial ring which can shift either left or right, which will result in the index point being in the wrong place for proper tumbler alignment. This is simple to fix.
Electronic locks, however, can have all kinds of issues, and none (except bad key-pad) are easy to fix, and when one goes bad, it must be drilled into to open it. IMO, it’s not a matter of ‘if’ an electronic lock will ultimately fail, but a matter of ‘when’ it will fail. Over the past 10 years or so, since electronics have become more and more prevalent, I’ve had to drill open bad electronic locks vs. bad manual dial locks on a ratio of about 20-1.
My professional opinion is to get the manual dial lock, unless you’ve got a good friend who is a locksmith/safecracker.
How Secure is Your Lock?
RFB tells us that both dial and electronic locks offer good security, provided it’s a good quality lock made by LaGard, Sargent & Greenleaf, Amsec, or Kaba/Ilco. However, RFB warns that “Some of the ‘cheaper’ locks (both manual and electronic) however, are very simple to bypass.
An electronic lock that’s glued or ‘stuck’ to the door with double-sided tape, and has its ‘brain’ on the outside of the lock in the same housing as the keypad, and merely sends power to an inner solenoid via a pair of wires through the door, is a thief’s best friend. The good ones have the brain inside the safe, inaccessible from the outside.
No amateur can ‘manipulate’ either a good manual or electronic lock. Both give you a theoretical one million possible combinations. I say ‘theoretical’ because there are many combinations that cannot, or should not, be used. You wouldn’t set your combo on a dial lock to 01-01-01 etc., nor would you set an electronic to 1-1-1-1-1-1, or 1-2-3-4-5-6.”
Tips for Dial Locks
RFB notes that “The speed, and ease of use, of a manual dial lock can be improved upon, simply by having your combo reset using certain guidelines. Avoid high numbers above 50. Having a 1st number in the 40s, 2nd number anywhere from 0-25, and 3rd number between 25 and 35 will cut dialing time in half, without compromising security. (For mechanical reasons I won’t get into here, the 3rd number of a good manual dial lock cannot — or should not — be set to any number between 95 & 20).”
Tips for Electronic Locks
Electronic locks can have the combination changed by the user much more easily than dial locks. That should be a good thing. However, RFB explains: “That can be a double-edged sword. More than a few times I’ve had to drill open a safe with an electronic lock that has had the combo changed incorrectly by the user, resulting in an unknown number that nobody can determine. Also, don’t forget that electronic locks have a ‘wrong-number lock-out’. I would NOT rely on the normal quickness of an electronic 6-number combo in an emergency situation. If for any reason (panic etc.) you punch in the wrong number several times, the lock will shut down for a 5-minute ‘penalty’.
Combo Manual and Electronic Locking Systems
Forum member ELR Researcher notes that some companies offer Combo Electronic and Manual lock systems: “You can get BOTH on the same safe[.] That said, I have ALWAYS been able to just change batteries on the very rare occasion when I forgot to replace a battery, and I’m right into my safe. Securam also offers a SafeLogic Xtreme model that has both types in one unit — see Securamsys.com. This offers “Push button access for everyday use [and] SpinDial Access for Xtreme situations.”
Replace Electronic Lock Batteries Every Year
To get the most life out of any electronic (keypad Lock), you should always change the battery at least once a year, whether it needs it or not. With some systems you should replace every 6 months! Low voltage won’t necessarily shut down the lock, but using it in a low voltage situation is bad for the electronics, and eventually will cause lock failure. So, If you do nothing else to maintain your digital-lock safe, replace the battery every year.
And get a fresh battery (with a release date) from the store — don’t just pull a battery out of a storage bin, even if it’s never been used. Old batteries can lose “juice” and physically degrade, even when in storage.
This article is Copyright 2025 AccurateShooter.com. No reproduction on any other website is authorized without payment of licensing fees or liquidated damages.
The 6.5 Creedmoor is now one of the most popular cartridges chambered in factory rifles. It found favor among hunters and PRS competitors, but then its little brother the 6mm Creedmoor became widely adopted because the 6mm version delivered less recoil, equivalent or better ballistics, and lower bullet cost.
There’s another Creedmoor cousin, the 22 Creedmoor, basically a 6mm Creedmoor necked down to .224 caliber. While this certainly can be used for PRS and tactical competition, the 22 Creedmoor seems to be ideally suited as a high-velocity varmint round — something to replace the 22-250. You get 22-250 class velocities with a more modern cartridge design, and high-quality brass.
LEARN MORE about the 22 Creedmoor
There is an excellent write-up in the GunsAmerica Digest about the 22 Creedmoor cartridge. Reviewer Jeff Cramblit built a 22 Creedmoor rifle and tested it with a variety of bullet weights. He concluded it worked best as a varminter, but could also do PRS duty, provided it is loaded under the 3200 fps velocity limit common in PRS matches. CLICK HERE to read full GunsAmerica 22 Creedmoor test report.
22 Creedmoor Ammunition, SAAMI Spec
SAAMI (Sporting Arms & Ammunition Mfg’s Institute) officially approved the 22 Creedmoor Cartridge in February, 2024. The cartridge has become more popular over the last two years, so ammo production has increased. Loaded 22 Creedmoor ammo is available from Copper Creek, Gunwerks, Hornady, Nosler, and Spark Munitions. Copper Creek has produced the most 22 Creedmoor loaded ammo varieties, with 18 different bullet options from 68 grains to 95 grains, including two lead-free bullet types. Copper Creek also offers load development packs with either Peterson or Hornady brass. Below are five Cooper Creek loaded ammo options with Sierra and Berger bullets.
In addition, multiple companies now offer 22 Creedmoor cartridge brass: Alpha Munitions, Atlas ADG, Hornady, and Peterson Cartridge. The Peterson 22 Creedmoor brass is excellent.
Of course you can neck down high-quality Lapua 6mm Creedmoor brass. Lapua brass has outstanding consistency and durability. Choose from large primer or small primer types. Necking down is a relatively easy one-step operation with a neck-sizing or full-length sizing die. You’re just stepping down to .224 from .243 — not that big of a jump.
22 Creedmoor Brass from Peterson Cartridge
According to Derek Peterson, President of Peterson Cartridge, “We decided to build the tooling to make our .22 Creedmoor brass in response to the uptick in long-distance predator and varmint hunting. Plus the round is just straight-up fun to shoot. It is a low-recoil, flat shooting, wind-bucking round [that is] deadly accurate up to 800 yards.”
“When we designed the tooling for the .22 Creedmoor we set out to make casings with improved features”, Peterson added. “And we were successful. We increased the head hardness to tolerate higher pressures. And we increased our internal volume slightly to work better with the slow-burning powders [such as Reloder 26 or H1000].”
22 Creedmoor for Varmints — Video from the Varmint Fields of Eastern Oregon
Bullet Choices for 22 Creedmoor
If you have an appropriate twist-rate barrel, you can load the 22 Creedmoor with heavy 85-95 grain bullets. However, we think that, for varminting, the cartridge is better suited for lighter 65-80 grain bullets. This yields high velocities that provide explosive impacts on small varmints.
This GunsAmerica photo shows, L to R, 90gr Sierra MK, Hornady 88gr, 80gr, and 75gr .224 caliber bullets.
What is the Best Role for the 22 Creedmoor?
GunsAmerica tester Jeff Cramblit favors the 22 Creedmoor as a varmint round: “The performance of the 22 Creedmoor with 75-80 grain bullets makes it an outstanding varmint cartridge. I’ve seen claims of 80 grain Bergers at 3500 fps out of 26″ barrels, which would be devastating on any varmint. Loaded ammunition is available with bullets in the 70-75 range leaving 24” barrels at velocities around 3400+ fps, a bit more conservative than personal hand-loading, but still making it a very flat shooting, low recoiling round delivering impressive results.”
Jeff says the 22 Creedmoor will also work for PRS with heavier bullets: “I built the 22 CM to be a dual-purpose gun, or actually a 3-purpose gun. The first was for the coyotes and varmints previously mentioned. The second was for shooting PRS (Precision Rifle Series) style matches on occasion, and the third was for hunting deer-sized game. As with any multi-purpose tool there tends to be compromises.”
More Efficient Alternatives — the 22 BR and 22 BRA
If you already have a 6mmBR rifle, and you want a higher velocity cartridge for varmint shooting, you may want to consider just necking down your brass. We’ve shot the 22 BR in the varmint fields and a steel match. This cartridge offers excellent accuracy, and is very flat shooting. We recommend getting a fairly fast-twist barrel so you can shoot the longer, high-BC bullets if you want to use your 22 BR in local matches. You’ll find that shorter 40gr to 66gr varmint bullets shoot great even in the faster-twist barrels.
For more information on the 22 BR for varminting and target shooting, with recommended loads for 40gr to 90gr bullets, read our Accurate Shooter 22 BR Cartridge Guide.
If you want more velocity than a 22 BR offers, you can have your barrel chambered for the 22 BRA (BR Ackley). With its 40-degree shoulder, the 22 BRA offers a few more grains capacity, so you can get more FPS with all classes of bullets. Fire-forming is easy — just use a normal 22 BR load with good bullets and shoot. We’ve fire-formed a 22 BRA in a varmint match and it showed excellent accuracy — there’s no need to waste bullets fire-forming. Go ahead and fire-form during a fun match.
Beretta USA officially kicked off its 500-year anniversary with a celebration at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, marking the start of a yearlong global tribute to the world’s oldest gun-producing company. The celebration began ahead of the show with Beretta’s exclusive, invite-only Beretta Range Day on Sunday, January 18. The event welcomed more than 200 media members and industry partners for a hands-on preview of Beretta’s newest product releases. Throughout the week, attendees had the opportunity to meet and engage with members of Team Beretta. Beretta’s 500th anniversary celebration will continue throughout 2026 with special product releases, storytelling initiatives, and global events honoring the company’s heritage and forward-looking vision.
Beretta is a huge gun industry company — the Beretta Holding Group now owns Sako, Tikka, Burris, Steiner, and Norma. Sako and Tikka were acquired in 2000, Burris Optics in 2002, and Beretta added Steiner-Optik and Norma via RUAG Ammotec. Beretta Holding provides a complete range of firearms, optics, and ammunition through these and a dozen other brands.
“SHOT Show 2026 marked the beginning of a once-in-a-lifetime celebration for Beretta”, said Cristian Capelli, Beretta USA General Manager. “From the range to the show floor, we were proud to bring together our partners, media, and friends of the brand to honor five centuries of innovation while showcasing the future of Beretta.”
Beretta’s 500th anniversary celebration will continue throughout 2026 with special product releases, storytelling initiatives, and global events honoring the company’s heritage and future plans. To learn more about Beretta Anniversary news and special releases, visit Beretta500.com.
Beretta Range Day Recap Product Review Videos
Beretta showcased numerous new firearms at the exclusive Range Day hosted just before SHOT Show 2026. A wide variety of guns were available for test firing including Beretta shotguns, SAKO and Tikka rifles, and multiple Beretta pistols, including the new Jaguar B22.
New Beretta Jaguar .22 LR Pistol
The new Beretta Jaguar B22 pistol is an advanced .22 LR rimfire pistol that comes in two variants, both tested in the above TFBTV video. The higher-priced competition model features a bronze-colored frame and substantial ported muzzle brake.
Tikka T3X Ace — Great New Chassis Rifle
The Tikka T3x ACE Target rifle has been named the 2026 American Rifleman Golden Bullseye Rifle of the Year, a highly coveted award presented annually by NRA Media. This impressive factory rifle is a great choice for PRS/NRL competition. It boasts a good chassis with full-length ARCA rail, modular magwell, and adjustable cheekpiece. The action is smooth with a nice fluted bolt and big bolt handle knob. On top of the action is a +20 MOA Picatinny rail which helps with long-range shooting. This rifle has shown very good accuracy with factory ammo, aided by an excellent 2-stage trigger that adjusts from 2 to 4 pounds. T3x Ace Target available chamberings are .223 Rem, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .308 Win, all priced at $1799.00 at EuroOptic.com. The 6.5 Creedmoor with 26″ barrel would be our choice for PRS/NRL competition.
SAKO S20 — Great Hunting Rifle
About Beretta: Established in 1526, Beretta is the world’s longest-standing gun-making enterprise, with a legacy spanning 16 generations of continuous family ownership. For 500 years, firearms bearing the Beretta name have been trusted and used around the world. Beretta USA Corp. was established in 1977 and became the provider of the most widely deployed sidearm in the U.S. Armed Forces. Today, Beretta USA is part of Beretta Holding Group, which includes over 50 global subsidiaries and 20 noted brands. Beretta manufactures and distributes a complete range of firearms, accessories, and apparel.
Ever wish you could look inside your rifle, to see how the trigger and fire-control system work? Well now that is possible with the magic of 3D computer graphics. Modern software allows detailed “cutaway” side-views (see below), as well as 3D views with 360° rotation. The software can also provide X-Ray-type views into the gun’s internals — as you can see above. And computer animation can show the complete firing process from trigger pull to chambering of the next round.
Rem 700 Cutaway View from Right Side
This article provides some very cool 3-D “Cutaway View” animations of the popular Remington 700 action, probably the most successful American bolt-action ever created.
READERS — Take the time to watch the video! The Rem 700 animation is really outstanding! EVERY bolt-action shooter should watch this video all the way through.
Cutaway 3D Animation of Rem 700 Action — Watch Video
The Model 700 series of bolt-action rifles have been manufactured by Remington Arms since 1962. All are based on basically the same centerfire bolt action. They are typically sold with an internal magazine depending on caliber, some of which have a floor-plate for quick-unloading, and some of which are “blind” (no floor-plate). The rifle can also be ordered with a detachable box magazine. The Model 700 is a development of the Remington 721 and 722 series of rifles, which were introduced in 1948.
The Remington 700 is a manually-operated bolt action with forward, dual opposed lugs. It features “Cock On Opening”, meaning the upward rotation of the bolt when the rifle is opened cocks the firing pin. A cam mechanism pushes the firing pin’s cocking piece backward. The bolt face is recessed, fully enclosing the base of the cartridge. The extractor is a C-clip sitting within the bolt face. The ejector is a plunger on the bolt face actuated by a coil spring. The bolt is of 3-piece construction, brazed together (head, body. and bolt handle). The receiver is milled from round cross-section steel.
This video was made with the help of the World of Guns: Gun Disassembly interactive encyclopedia with 3D rendering. This remarkable web-based software allows users to view the inner workings of hundreds of different rifles and pistols — everything from a .22 LR Ruger to a .55-caliber Boys Anti-Tank rifle. There are also 25,000+ parts diagrams. This is a remarkable technical resource. SEE MORE HERE.
Much of the country is dealing with serious winter weather right now, with snow and very cold temperatures. For many shooting enthusiasts outdoor rifle shooting is replaced by indoor handgun shooting in the winter months. Pistol shooting is fun — that’s reason enough to head to an indoor range. In addition, all CCW permit holders should definitely practice regularly. For many people, indoor shooting can be done in the evening, after work, relatively close to home. Indoor ranges are most convenient for those who live near urban centers, where the biggest threats to public safety currently exist. This article talks about indoor firearms training and the proper procedures you should follow at indoor ranges.
This Video Covers Basic Gun Range Safety Rules and Etiquette
FIVE IMPORTANT SAFETY PROCEDURES for Indoor Ranges
1. Follow the Three Fundamental Rules for Safe Gun Handling
ALWAYS keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. ALWAYS keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot. ALWAYS keep the gun unloaded until ready to use.
2. Follow ALL Range Officer Instructions
ROs are the first and final authority on any range and their decisions are generally final. Arguing with a Range Officer may just get you thrown out.
3. Don’t Bother Others or Touch Their Guns
Respect other shooters’ privacy unless a safety issue arises. Do NOT engage other shooters to correct a perceived safety violation unless absolutely necessary – inform the RO instead. NEVER handle or touch another shooter’s firearm without their permission!
4. Know Your Range’s Rules
Review and understand any and all range rules and requirements/expectations. For example, what is the range’s maximum rate of fire? Are you allowed to collect your brass?
5. Know What To Do During a Cease Fire
IMMEDIATELY set down your firearm, pointed downrange, and STEP AWAY from the shooting booth (or bench). Range Officers do not want shooters trying to “secure/unload” their firearms in a cease fire situation — they want the shooters separated from their guns instantly.
BAD RANGE BEHAVIOR — Five Things NOT to Do at the Range
Here are the five worst behaviors we’ve seen at indoor ranges. These behaviors are both dangerous and inconsiderate. Any one of these behaviors can get you permanently banned from an indoor range.
1. Sweeping other individuals after loading a weapon behind the firing line is very bad. All your weapons should be empty until you reach your shooting station.
2. Turning the handgun sideways while trying to clear a malfunction or insert/remove a magazine. This will point the muzzle at a fellow shooter. Or, after shooting a gun, the shooter fails to clear the weapon and then places the gun somewhere near the shooting station with the muzzle in an unsafe position.
3. Reacting unpredictably when firing a high recoil handgun. We’ve seen people take a second shot by accident with the muzzle way off target.
4. Not obeying range commands — in particular continuing to shoot during called cease-fires.
5. Poorly aimed shooting that hits target frames or carriers, causing ricochets.
Double-Up on Hearing Protection When Shooting Indoors
When shooting indoors we recommend quality muffs with earplugs underneath, offering double protection. When inside an enclosed range, with other shooters blasting away right next to you, you really need effective hearing protection. But you also need to hear range commands and be able to communicate. That’s why we recommend electronic muffs with plugs underneath.
For indoor pistol shooting, we like the Howard Leight Impact Pro Muffs. These offer an impressive 30 dB Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). In addition, the electronic functionality allows you to hear all range commands clearly. These muffs are a good value. These are now available for $89.98 on Amazon (#ad). Howard Leight also makes good protective safety eyewear with ANSI Z87.1-2010 (High Impact) rating. These milspec, wrap-around Genesis safety glasses are $17.96 on Amazon (#ad) this week.
This 55-minute video covers 18 pistol products displayed at SHOT Show 2026. There is a vast selection of semi-auto handguns plus a couple build kits and revolver frames. All the footage from this video was taken indoors at SHOT Show at the display booths. There is no supplemental video of pistols being shot at a range.
Gunsafes can be fitted with either an electronic keypad-style lock, or a conventional dial lock. In our 
Tips for Dial Locks
Replace Electronic Lock Batteries Every Year
If you already have a 6mmBR rifle, and you want a higher velocity cartridge for varmint shooting, you may want to consider just necking down your brass. We’ve shot the 22 BR in the varmint fields and a steel match. This cartridge offers excellent accuracy, and is very flat shooting. We recommend getting a fairly fast-twist barrel so you can shoot the longer, high-BC bullets if you want to use your 22 BR in local matches. You’ll find that shorter 40gr to 66gr varmint bullets shoot great even in the faster-twist barrels.
This video was made with the help of the 
Much of the country is dealing with serious winter weather right now, with snow and very cold temperatures. For many shooting enthusiasts outdoor rifle shooting is replaced by indoor handgun shooting in the winter months. Pistol shooting is fun — that’s reason enough to head to an indoor range. In addition, all CCW permit holders should definitely practice regularly. For many people, indoor shooting can be done in the evening, after work, relatively close to home. Indoor ranges are most convenient for those who live near urban centers, where the biggest threats to public safety currently exist. This article talks about indoor firearms training and the proper procedures you should follow at indoor ranges.
