Are you considering a small 9mm handgun for concealed carry (CCW) and self-defense? Then you should read an excellent 5-gun comparison review by Guns America Digest. This detailed article and accompanying video cover what the author calls the “Miracle 9 category” — 9mm micro-compacts that hold 10 or more rounds without the use of extended magazines. All these five pistols are very easy to conceal and all are striker-fired. The pistols compared are: Ruger MAX-9, SIG Sauer P365, Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus, Springfield Armory Hellcat, and Taurus GX4.
Here are key, short highlights of the Guns America 5-pistol roundup review. This is a start, but we strongly recommend you read the full comparison review on Guns America Digest.
L to R: Ruger MAX-9, Springfield Armory Hellcat, S & W M&P Shield Plus, Taurus GX4, SIG Sauger P365.
Ruger MAX-9
“The Ruger MAX-9 is the only pistol in this class to come standard with a slide cut that is ready for a mounted red-dot optic. The MAX-9 [also has] an impressive pair of sights. The front sight is a long one that houses a florescent yellow fiber optic[.] The slide stop control is small and can be quite difficult to use as a slide release – a common trait for Ruger handguns.”
SIG Sauer P365
“The P365 was the first Miracle-9 to market and literally knocked the industry on its butt. Despite rumors of intermittent problems or QA concerns, the marketplace beat a path to SIG’s doorstep and bought this pistol in droves. Being first to market has its rewards. The P365 is available in about a half-dozen variations, some significantly distinct — like the XL with its longer barrel and slide.” [Note: in this article, the reviewer focuses on the P365 SAS model with flush-mount fiber-optic sights.]
Smith & Wesson M&P Shield Plus
“The Shield is most likely the best-selling micro-compact 9mm handgun in the past decade. The Shield Plus [is] a gun with millions of rounds of experience and credibility, proven popular ergonomics, and the presumption of staunch reliability. It is available in several variations that included sight upgrades and [optional] manual safety switch.”
Springfield Armory Hellcat
“The Hellcat is well-appointed, with an excellent set of sights called ‘U-Dot’ and a very nice trigger. Absent on the Hellcat is the rear grip safety that is found on XD models. The Hellcat is available in two variations – with or without the slide cut for an optic (and the inclusion of an optic is a further option).”
Taurus GX4
“The GX4 follows closely to the very popular TX22 in terms of ergonomics and grip texture. The controls are well placed and function very nicely. Similar to the P365 SAS, there is no takedown lever that protrudes from the frame, just a rotating pin. This reviewer has found the trigger of the GX4 to be less than ideal.”
Should the Five Miracle 9mms Be Six? (Adding a Glock 43X)
One Sheriff’s Deputy posted this comment on the Guns America review, suggesting that the Glock 43X should have been added to the comparison: “I’ve had a SIG P365 from the release. Love it. I’m a Deputy Sheriff and it is my constant off duty companion for years. Tried Hellcat, nice gun but paper and shot timers don’t lie, I was less accurate and slower. Other officers were better with it than Sig. So like we all know, shoot what suits you. Now I have two Glock 43X MOS. Factory night sights and just a trigger connector for add-ons. Those guns surprised me, I beat my Sig times and accuracy was same, excellent. So I’ve been carrying a 43x more. The 43x is definitely a contender to look at.” Here is the Glock 43X, silver slide version (10+1 3.39″ barrel):
Jerry Miculek is the best action revolver shooter who has ever lived. Miculek is also a true master with rifle and shotgun. This guy shoots hundreds of thousands of rounds every year in all types of firearms. Through that process, he has discovered common mistakes many shooters make. Those mistakes can harm the guns, or threaten the safety of the operator. Here Jerry offers some vital gun handling and safety advice in his “Never Do This” video series.
Jerry Miculek has won multiple revolvers championships, and has set amazing records for revolver speed shooting (with reloads). Yes Jerry, “Mr. Revolver”, knows a thing or two about wheelguns. In this video, Jerry explains how you can damage your revolver by using the wrong methods to open and close the cylinder and extract ammo. Jerry shows what NOT to do, and then he very carefully explains the proper procedure to release the cylinder, and swing it out of the frame. In addition, Jerry shows how best to swing a loaded cyclinder back into place. If you own a revolver, ANY revolver, you should definitely watch this video.
In this second video, Jerry explains common mistakes people make when handling and shooting three classic, semi-auto firearm types — the M1 Garand, the SKS carbine, and the M1911 pistol. Jerry shows handling faults that can cause out-of-battery detonation or early primer strikes, or cause jams in the Garand and SKS. Then Jerry explains why you should never release the slide on a M1911 pistol with a round already in the chamber. This is a must-watch video for Garand owners.
Here Jerry demonstrates of the most common jams that can happen with AR-platform rifles. Miculek reveals the cause of the issue and then shows how to prevent it. Jerry notes: “This is one of those malfunctions that you won’t see coming! I’ve seen it … on the range and it can be devastating to your time in a match. All ammo used in the video were dummy rounds and intentionally loaded for training without powder or primers.”
An over-reaching rule recently imposed by the Biden Administration-controlled ATF has been halted by a Federal judge in Texas. In the VanDerStok v. Garland case, U.S. District Judge Reed O’Conner vacated the ATF’s “Final Rule” which treated unfinished frames and receivers the same as if they are functional firearms. The Truth About Guns Blog notes: “In another blow to the Biden Administration’s ongoing war on the gun industry and firearm owners, a Federal judge has thrown out the ATF’s attempt at regulating gun parts and partial receivers as complete firearms.”
“After earlier issuing an injunction blocking ATF enforcement, United States District Court Judge Reed O’Connor ruled yesterday that the ATF overstepped its regulatory authority by skirting the legislative process and, in effect, unilaterally re-writing the Gun Control Act of 1968 in order to allow it to regulate gun parts as it does complete firearms. O’Connor vacated the agency’s rule granting the plaintiffs summary judgement.” — Truth About Guns Blog.
Judge O’Connor issued his 38-page decision last week. The Order stated: “This case presents the question of whether the federal government may lawfully regulate partially manufactured firearm components, related firearm products, and other tools and materials in keeping with the Gun Control Act of 1968. Because the Court concludes that the government cannot regulate those items without violating federal law, the Court holds that the government’s recently enacted Final Rule, Definition of ‘Frame or Receiver’ and Identification of Firearms, 87 Fed. Reg. 24,652 (codified at 27 C.F.R. pts. 447, 478, and 479), is unlawful agency action taken in excess of the ATF’s statutory jurisdiction. On this basis, the Court vacates the Final Rule.”
O’Connor added: “A part that has yet to be completed or converted to function as frame or receiver is not a frame or receiver. ATF’s declaration that a component is a ‘frame or receiver’ does not make it so if, at the time of evaluation, the component does not yet accord with the ordinary public meaning of those terms.”
Judge O’Connor’s ruling in VanDerStok v. Garland vacates the controversial ATF Final Rule that effectively changed the definition of a firearm under Federal law.
Judge O’Connor further observed that previous regulatory actions do NOT justify rulings that are clearly beyond the scope of ATF authority: “If these administrative records show, as Defendants contend, that ATF has previously regulated components that are not yet frames or receivers but could readily be converted into such items, then the historical practice does nothing more than confirm that the agency has, perhaps in multiple specific instances over several decades, exceeded the lawful bounds of its statutory jurisdiction.”
This video covers the Preminary Injunction previously issued in VanDerStok vs. Garland
The Firearms Policy Coalition wrote: “Our victory in VanDerStok v. Garland vacated the ‘Frame or Receiver’ Final Rule and restored the pre-rule status quo. The era of unchecked disarmament schemes is over. You can find case details at FPCLaw.org.
Second Amendment Foundation founder Alan M. Gottlieb stated: “This decision amounts to another court blow to Joe Biden’s anti-gun agenda, which threatens the very Constitution he swore to uphold and defend when he took office.” And SAF Exec. Director Adam Kraut added: “This case is one more example of the Biden administration’s ongoing effort to exceed its authority in an effort to place as many restrictions as possible on the rights of law-abiding gun owners. We are pleased the court took this decisive action, and we will litigate this issue to finality, if and when the government appeals.”
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
This RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit makes it easy to get started reloading — with everything you need into one package. The kit includes: RockChucker Supreme Master Reloading Press, Universal Case Loading Block, .17-.60 Debur Tool, M500 Mechanical Scale, Uniflow III Powder Measure, Hand Priming Tool, Hex Key Set, Case Lube Kit, Powder Funnel, and Speer Reloading Manual. Right now this kit is just $335.99, a 34% savings!
2. Sportsman’s — Citadel Stars and Stripes M1911 Pistol, $899.99
⏺ Handsome patriotic M1911-A1 pistol to Celebrate 4th of July
Tomorrow is the 4th of July. What better way to celebrate America’s Independence Day than with a patriotic Stars and Stripes M1911 pistol. Citadel’s full-sized M1911 Government has a handsome Cerakoted American flag finish. This is available by itself or with a matching Stars and Stripes ammo can. As on sale right now at Sportsman’s Outdoor Superstore, this pistol is $899.99 — $310 off the regular price.
3. Natchez — Frankford Arsenal Platinum Intellidropper, $169.99
⏺ Excellent scale/dispenser out-performs other much more pricey units
If you’re looking to upgrade your powder measure system, check out the Frankford Arsenal Intellidropper. It’s one of the most advanced, intelligent, and precise electronic powder measures on the market today. The Intellidropper features a proprietary powder calibration button for fast and accurate powder measurements. Auto and manual trickle capability with up to 250 grains of powder per throw. Holds more than 7,000 grains of powder and offers +/- 0.1 grain accuracy.
4. Creedmoor Sports — Shoulder Datum Tool, $49.95
⏺ Handy tool allows you to gauge bump for multiple cartridge types
Measure your shoulder datum with the NEW Creedmoor Sports Shoulder Datum Tool. Sometimes you just want to bump the shoulder back .002″ to .003″ to preserve brass life while still ensuring it will feed in your rifle. It can also help with accuracy in some cases if the shoulder is already touching the inside of the chamber. It can also be helpful to know how the brass stretches during firing. If it’s being stretched a lot, especially in a bolt gun, this can mean the headspace may be excessive, or that the bolt isn’t making firm contact on the lugs.
5. EuroOptic — SIG Sauer Pistol Sale, Save up to $180
⏺ Excellent, accurate, reliable match and defense pistols on sale
Sig Sauer makes some of the finest pistols on the market for target shooting, self-defense, and concealed carry. Head over to EuroOptic for the Sig Sauer Sale where you’ll find pages of models to choose from all at lower than normal prices.
6. Amazon — Peregrine Magnetic Gun Caddy, $13.17
⏺ Unique accessory for handy safe storage; can be used on vehicle
Keeping your rifles steady and upright in safe, shop, or vehicle can be a challenge. An easy way to keep long guns secure is the Peregrine Field Gear Magnet Gun Caddy. This works great inside a safe, and can also attach magnetically to a vehicle. The magnetic gun caddy is an extra set of hands when you need to rest your unloaded firearm. It’s small and lightweight so it fits in your vest pocket, glove compartment, or range bag.
7. Amazon — Birchwood Casey .22 LR Target Rack, $36.94
Spending the day plinking with a .22 LR can be a lot of fun and relaxing. A great way to practice is with a dynamic target such as the Birchwood Casey Steel Resetting Target. Shoot the four lower plates then hit the upper plate to reset the group. NOTE — This target is designed for .22 LR Rimfire rifles and pistols. This Rimfire Target features a twist design with no welds to break.
8. Amazon — Simhevn Electronic Digital Caliper, $9.49
⏺ Amazing low price on digital calipers — great for a backup unit
One of the keys to accurate reloading is having a good set of calipers for measuring everything from bullets to brass. An inexpensive but effective version is the Simhevn Electronic 6″ Digital Caliper. These budget-price electronic calipers offer a nice LCD display screen, which automatically turns off after 5 minutes of use. These calipers come with a pre-installed battery plus a spare battery.
9. Amazon — Boosteady Gun Swabs, $10.99
⏺ Handy swabs for cleaning rifles and pistols — goodo inside actions
Cleaning guns can be challenging enough without worrying about getting gunk out of tiny corner and nooks. For those areas we like BOOSTEADY 6-Inch Cotton Gun Cleaning Swabs. Right now get 300 swabs for just $10.99 on Amazon. These will work for a variety of calibers and can reach into hard to reach places. This makes them great for slides, receivers, chambers, magazine housings, and breeches.
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
1. Midsouth — LEE Tools, Presses, Dies on Sale, 10%-30% OFF
⏺ Major sale on full range of LEE products — presses, dies, and more
LEE Precision makes a variety of very useful reloading tools at affordable prices. Some of the latest LEE priming tools and loading presses, with case feeders, are a great addition to your loading bench. In addition, LEE seating dies work great for pistol cases and the LEE collet dies offer unique functionality. Right now, at Midsouth, save 10%-30% on LEE Precision products.
2. MidwayUSA — 15% Off All Qualifying Vortex Optics
⏺ Major sale on scopes, spotters, LRFs, binoculars and more
Vortex offers a full range of scopes for hunters, tactical shooters, and long-range competitors. Right now you can save 15% on a wide range of Vortex products at MidwayUSA. That 15% savings is on top of significantly discounted prices. CLICK HERE to see featured Vortex rifle scopes, spotting scopes, laser rangefinders, and binoculars on sale. Use Code VTX0601023 for the 15% Off Savings.
3. Midsouth — Frankford Tumbler Lite + Depriming Tool, $119.99
⏺ Depriming Tool and Tumbler Work Great, save $45 with COMBO
The Frankford Arsenal Depriming Tool and Tumbler Lite are both excellent products. With the hand depriming tool you can knock out primers while watching TV. Spent primers are collected in the removable clear catch tube — so no mess on your press or loading bench. The Tumbler Lite is great for tumbling with liquid media to get your cases bright and shiny. Right now you can save $45 by getting the $119.99 Combo Pack from Midsouth.
4. Palmetto State Armory — 4th of July Sale, Save 30-50%
⏺ Major savings on 60+ items — lowers, optics, ammo and more
5. CDNN Sports — Winchester Wildcat with Optic, $249.99
⏺ Fun rimfire rifle complete with optic — good owner reviews
Here is a fun little semi-auto .22 LR rifle at a crazy low price — $249.99 complete with a mounted Red Dot Reflex optic. The Winchester Wildcat takes Ruger 10/22 mags, and has some great features, such as field-removable lower receiver, ambidextrous controls, integral Picatinny rails, and rear barrel access. It has a good trigger and shoots well. In many respects the Wildcat beats the Ruger 10/22 while costing a lot less. If you don’t need the optic, you can get a basic Wildcat with threaded barrel for $229.99 on sale.
6. Midsouth — 23% Off SnapSafe Pistol Vaults, $79.99/$99.99
⏺ Major savings on popular handgun safes for home and office
If you have a handgun for security of your home or office, you want it readily available but still ultra-secure. A quality pistol vault serves that purpose. Right now you can save $60 (27%) on the SnapSafe Dropbox Vault, or save $40 (23%) on the SnapSafe Two-Gun Vault. These handgun vaults feature a programmable keypad with back-up mechanical key access. Both vaults are made from strong 16ga steel.
7. Amazon — Allen Deluxe Rifle Case, $75.99
⏺ Quality case for long-barreled hunting rifles, PRS rifles, and shotguns
This Allen Long Gun Case in Mossy Oak Break-Up Country Camo has three large external pockets. This case fits scoped rifles (and other long guns) up to 50 inches overall. Well-made, with lots of features, this gun case has earned 84% 5-Star ratings from verified purchasers. Right now this handsome case is $75.99 on Amazon, a 22% discount.
8. Academy Sports — Sports Afield 64-Gun Safe, $799.99
⏺ Excellent deal on big, 40″-wide safe with six looking bolts
Here’s an excellent, large gunsafe with good user reviews, priced at $799.99. That’s 33% OFF the regular $1199.99 price, a great deal. Rated for 64 guns, this Sports Afield safe measures 55″ high x 40″ wide and comes with a door organizer with 6 handgun pockets and long gun holder. Weighing 374 pounds, this safe rivals other safes costing $1400 or more. It is waterproof and has a 30-minute fire resistance rating.
9. Natchez — Frankford Quick-N-Easy Case Tumbler Kit, $79.99
⏺ Combo Kit works great and is very good value right now
Keeping your brass clean is important (and essential if you anneal). If you’re looking for a new, affordable setup to clean cartridge brass, consider the Frankford Arsenal Quick-N-EZ Case Tumbler Master Kit. You get everything needed to dry-tumble your brass and remove the media. This is all available now for a very low $79.99. You could pay that much for a good vibratory tumbler alone, yet this combo kit includes tumbler, media separator, bucket, brass polish, and media.
While AccurateShooter.com focuses primarily on rifle disciplines, we know that most of our regular readers also own handguns. It’s fun to shoot pistols, both outdoors and indoors. With a short site radius, and the snap of pistol recoil, handguns can be challenging — but that’s part of the fun. We enjoy shooting revolvers and semi-auto pistols at distances from 25 feet to 50 yards. Here are some fun targets you can download and print for FREE. These should provide a fun challenge for your next handgun sessions.
1. Patriotic Stars Target with Three Score Values
Here’s a fun Patriotic Stars Target created by the NSSF. This would be a great target to shoot on the 4th of July. Aim for the stars. The red stars are worth 3 points, the blue stars are 5 points, and the smallest white stars are worth 10 points. After aiming for the one-color stars, try to hit the center red, white, and blue star for added fun. You can also use this target with rifles at longer ranges.
2. Red Center Pistol Target
Here’s a NRA-type target for pistol shooting. The bright red center helps when shooting indoors because well-placed bullet holes are much more visible. This target includes data entry boxes to record gun type, score, and load data. This Red Center Target is one of many good free targets available at Targets4free.com.
3. NSSF Billiards Table Target
This Billiards Table Target offers 15 brightly-colored numbered balls with the cue ball at the bottom. Aim for the numbers, shooting 1-15 in sequence, or alternate between stripes and solids. You can also draw an “X” on the white cue ball (or attach a paster), and use that to set your zero. This target is fun for shooting outdoors with rifles at 50 or 100 yards or indoors with pistols.
4. Tic-Tac-Toe Fun Game Target
This Tic-Tac-Toe Shooting Game Target lets you challenge your shooting buddies at the range. One player can shoot the red triangles, while the other shoots the white zones, taking turns. You proceed just like a regular Tic-Tac-Toe game, alternating shots, with the goal of getting three of the same color in a row. This is a fun game for a parent and a young family member. You’ll find other fun targets on Targets4free.com.
5. NRA Dartboard Target with Five Bullseyes
There are many dartboard-style targets available, but this one has the extra feature of FIVE notable black bullseye aiming points. That makes this NRA Dartboard Target quite good for handgun shooting. NOTE: You’ll want to set the target PDF file to print in landscape (horizontal) mode to get the best results with 8.5×11″ paper.
The 44th Edition of the Blue Book of Gun Values is now on sale, for immediate delivery. Purchase this popular price guide through Blue Book Publications for $59.95. Or you can order from Amazon for $54.99 as well. The Blue Book of Gun Values by S.P. Fjestad is the leading gun valuation resource. There are now over 1.8 million copies in circulation worldwide. This book continues to be the “Bible” for buyers, sellers, collectors, and connoisseurs in the firearms industry.
Blue Book of Gun Values, 44th Edition, May 2023
The 44th Edition contains 2,528 pages covering over 1,800 manufacturers/trademarks, with over 35,000 gun model descriptions, and over 180,000 values, with new-for-2023 data!
Review by Tom Gresham, Gun Talk Radio Host
“At some point, every gun owner asks the question, ‘What’s it worth?’ The leading reference for decades has been the Blue Book of Gun Values. Whether you are a seller, a buyer, a shopper, or just curious, this constantly-updated gold mine of research is your friend.”
Features of the new Blue Book of Gun Values:
· Includes the new 2023 makes and models, with many new handguns and rifles, and important pricing updates.
· 2,528 pages covering over 1,800 manufacturers and trademarks, with over 35,000 gun model descriptions.
· 180,000+ up-to-date values are provided — most complete resource in print.
· Important pricing updates on major trademark current, antique, and discontinued models, including Colt, Winchester, Smith & Wesson, and Ruger.
· Color Photo Percentage Grading System (PPGS) makes firearms grading even easier and more accurate.
· More information, more values, more illustrations, and more history than any other gun price guide on the market.
In our Shooters’ Forum there is a popular photography thread. Along with some great nature and hunting images, you’ll find quality photos of handsome firearms. Among the many images were head-turning photos of some very impressive pistols belonging to Forum member Beiruty from Texas. He has some of the most handsome mag-fed handguns we’ve ever seen. Here are six of his favorite semi-auto pistols from his collection. Three of these handguns boast beautiful engraving.
FN Browning High Power Renaissance
This 9mm hand-engraved High Power with silver finish was made in Belgium in 1971:
NOTE: This is one of a near-matching pair of FN HP Renaissance pistols featured in the top photo.
Hämmerli .22 LR Model 208, Special Edition
This Special Edition, one of 500, marks 125 years of Hämmerli Sportwaffenfabrik (1863-1988):
The handsome grip is factory carved. This Model 208 pistol shipped in a fitted case, shown below.
Colt .45 ACP 1911 Commander
This 1975-vintage Colt Commander 1911 sports fully-engraved frame and slide:
Smith & Wesson .22 LR Model 41 Long Barrel
This target pistol features a 7-3/8″ barrel with factory compensator. Grip is custom:
Browning .22 LR Medalist Pistol
This handsome Browning Medalist, all factory standard, was made in Belgium in 1964:
The video below shows another Browning Medalist of the same design and relative vintage:
Stoeger Arms American Eagle Navy Model Luger
This stainless Stoeger Navy Model 6″ Luger Pistol is vintage 1978-1980:
At the request of our readers, we provide select “Deals of the Week”. Every Sunday afternoon or Monday morning we offer our Best Bargain selections. Here are some of the best deals on firearms, hardware, reloading components, optics, and shooting accessories. Be aware that sale prices are subject to change, and once clearance inventory is sold, it’s gone for good. You snooze you lose.
NOTE: All listed products are for sale to persons 18 years of age or older. No products are intended for use by minors.
This RCBS Rock Chucker Supreme Master Reloading Kit makes it easy to get started reloading — with everything you need into one package. The kit includes: RockChucker Supreme Master Reloading Press, Universal Case Loading Block, .17-.60 Debur Tool, M500 Mechanical Scale, Uniflow III Powder Measure, Hand Priming Tool, Hex Key Set, Case Lube Kit, Powder Funnel, and Speer Reloading Manual. Right now this kit is just $343.99, a 33% savings!
2. MidwayUSA — Vortex Optics Sale with 15% Savings
⏺ Major Savings plus 15% Discount Code: VTX060123
If you’re in the market for a new scope, spotting scope, or red dot sight, check out the Midway Vortex Optics Sale. A wide variety of optics products are on sale this week with a special 15% Off promotion. Hunters should check out the Fury HD5000 Rangefinding Binoculars. These are now $1499.99 — $500 off MSRP. NOTE: Along with the discounted list prices, on qualifying Vortex optics you get an additional 15% Off with Discount Code VTX060123.
3. EuroOptic — Sako S20 Close-out Sale, Save $400-$600
⏺ Save HUNDREDS on outstanding SAKO S20 rifles, multiple calibers
The SAKO S20 is a truly outstanding hunting rifle. It offers a smooth action, great trigger, excellent accuracy, and a convertible stock. Right now at EuroOptic.com you can save $400-$600 on a new SAKO S20 in a variety of popular chamberings. 15 different caliber/stock combinations are on sale, with discounts from $450-$600. Shown above are six notable deals, but there are many more. CLICK HERE to see all S20 Close-out offerings.
4. Locked & Loaded — SAR USA 9mm Pistol w/optic, $319.99
⏺ Accurate, 9mm pistol with installed Red Dot at great price
Here’s a quality 9mm pistol with a slide-mounted red dot sight for under $320 — a truly great deal. This SAR USA Mete 9mm pistol comes complete with a modern red dot sight fitted on the slide. This pistol features a Safari tan frame, black slide, and 17-round magazine. If you want to get started in IDPA or action pistol competition, this is a great option. The SAR pistol grip is very comfortable with good ergonomics — better than Glock in our opinion.
5. Graf & Sons — Caldwell Accumax Carbon Fiber Bipod Sale
⏺ Save up to 23% on carbon-legged bipods
Caldwell Accumax Carbon Fiber Bipods offer excellent performance for the price — and you can save 13% to 23% right now at Grafs.com. Caldwell’s Carbon Fiber Bipods feature quick-deployment carbon fiber legs with 90-degree forward or backward locking with spring-loaded buttons. The Premium Carbon Fiber Bipod also features an omni-directional ball mount for 360-degree panning, a lever lock handle for fast adjustments, and twist-lock leg length adjustments. Seven different Caldwell carbon bipods are on sale.
⏺ New advanced turret with wedges to hold multiple die diameters
The T-7 Adaptive Press is the result of collaboration between Creedmoor Sports and Redding. The Creedmoor Sports T-7 Adaptive Press combines the time-tested Redding T-7 turret press with the precision-machined, stainless steel Creedmoor Sports Adaptive Press Head. The T-7 Adaptive Press incorporates an innovative Wedge die insert system. This allow handloaders to use more robust 1-1/4″ dies as well as standard 7/8″ dies.
7. Amazon — Digital Micrometer, $39.99
⏺ Very good unit for the price, with nice, large display
Want to upgrade to a digital micrometer? The REXBETI Digital Micrometer is a very good value at $39.99. With accuracy to 0.0001″, this will provide ultra-precise measurements. The unit is easy to use and has a large, clear LCD display. This comes with a nice hard case for storage and protection. NOTE — this type of micrometer does NOT work for measuring case-wall thickness. You’ll need a ball micrometer for that task.
8. Palmetto SA — Leupold Binoculars and Harness Kit, $119.99
⏺ Save 40% now on Leupold Binoculars and Harness
Hunters and varminters need binoculars. A great option is the Leupold BX-1 Timberline 10×42 Binoculars with Go Afield Harness. Right now this combo is just $119.99, a 40% savings off the regular $199.99 price. But act soon — we expect this deal to expire soon. These Leupold binoculars offer solid reliability and quality glass in a lightweight package. This combo includes the excellent, adjustable GO Afield binocular harness, that will hold your binocs and other items securely all day long.
9. Amazon — Frankford Arsenal Brass Dryer, $54.49
⏺ Very good brass drying unit, now with a big discount
Do you wet-tumble your brass but hate drying it? For a fast and easy way to dry cartridge brass, we like the Frankford Arsenal Brass Dryer. The-top mounted fan and temperature adjustment of up to 160 degrees allows for quick drying of up to 1000 pieces of brass. There are 5 removable, internal trays. That makes it convenient to dry multiple types of brass at the same time.
10. Amazon — Walker’s Slim Electronic Muffs, From $39.99
⏺ These NRR23 muffs have earned excellent customer reviews
All shooters need quality ear protection — and electronic muffs are a good option. The Walker’s Slim Electronic Muffs, with 23 dB Noise Reduction Rating, offer excellent performance for the price. These ear muffs protect against hazardous noises, while still letting you hear range commands. These comfortable, low-profile design muffs have earned an 86% 5-star rating among buyers. A number of color options are offered, starting at $39.99. One recent buyer posted: “At this price point, these are as good as it gets. They do a great job at the gun range and allow you to still talk to people at a normal conversational level.”
Hornady sponsored shooter Jerry Miculek — Yamil Sued Photo.
If you are considering acquiring a revolver for fun shooting, self-defense, or competition, you should definitely watch this YouTube video. In this 23-minute presentation, legendary shooter Jerry Miculek puts three .357/.38 SPL wheelguns through their paces. Jerry, one of the greatest revolver shooters in history, hosts a “Revolver Showdown” with three popular wheelguns: 1) S&W L frame (3″ bbl); 2) Colt Python (6″ bbl); and 3) Ruger Speed Six (2.75″ bbl).
Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus, L-Frame, 7-rd .357 Magnum/38 SPL, 3″ Barrel.
Testing at 10 Yards and 50 Yards
In the video, Jerry shoots all three revolvers rapid-fire, double-action at 10 yards. Then he shoots the three guns single-action, slow-fire at 50 yards (starting at time mark 7:19).
After his range session, Jerry examines nine medium frame revolvers, comparing and contrasting design features. Jerry considers these factors:
1. Accuracy
2. Balance and Handling
3. Speed and Sureness of Trigger Return (watch video at 3:45″ re Colt.)
4. Reliability
5. Barrel Twist Rate
6. Strength of Construction/Durability
Testing at 10 Yards and 50 Yards
