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September 30th, 2021

Smith & Wesson Will Move Headquarters to Tennessee

smith wesson massachusetts Tennessee second amendment factory headquarters move

Big news in the gun industry. Smith & Wesson (S&W) announced today it will move its headquarters out of Massachusetts and relocate in Tennessee. In addition, a large share of S&W’s manufacturing operations will be transferred from Massachusetts to the Second Amendment-friendly state of Tennessee. Smith & Wesson will also shut down facilities in Connecticut and Missouri, in connection with the Tennessee relocation.

The main reason for the move was recent anti-gun legislation in Massachusetts. According to Fox News: “The legislation, if enacted, would prevent Smith & Wesson from manufacturing products that accounted for more than 60% of its revenue last year.” Specifically, pending bill SD. 2588 (“An Act to Stop Mass Shootings”) would bar the manufacturing of “any assault weapon or large capacity feeding device”.

When the process is complete, S&W will have just three manufacturing and distribution facilities in the USA. S&W will continue to make revolvers in Massachusetts, however, and S&W Operations in Holton, Maine will continue without change. Approximately 1000 S&W jobs will remain in Massachusetts after the move. But 750 jobs will be re-located to the new S&W headquarters/production center in Maryville, Tennessee. The move is slated to take place in 2023 at an estimated cost of $138,000,000 to build new facilities and transfer tooling/machinery.

Smith & Wesson Massachusetts
Manufacture of most S&W semi-auto rifles and pistols will be moved out of Massachusetts.

Fox Business noted that restrictive, Democratic Party-sponsored legislation in Massachusetts is compelling S&W to leave: “Gun maker Smith & Wesson Brands Inc. will relocate its headquarters to Tennessee next year due to proposed firearms legislation in its home state of Massachusetts. The legislation, if enacted, would prevent Smith & Wesson from manufacturing products that accounted for more than 60% of its revenue last year.” Smith & Wesson was founded in Connecticut in 1856, and has been headquartered in Springfield Massachusetts for most of its 165 years of operation. Smith & Wesson was founded by Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson as the “Smith & Wesson Revolver Company” in 1856.

A S&W press release cited these key factors in the decision to move:

1. Support for the Second Amendment
2. Business friendly environment
3. Quality of life for employees
4. Cost of living and affordability
5. Access to higher education institutions
6. Availability of qualified labor for its operations and headquarter functions
7. Favorable location for efficiency of distribution

Recently proposed legislation in Massachusetts, if enacted, would prohibit the company from manufacturing certain firearms in the state. Mark Smith, S&W CEO/President said:

“After an exhaustive and thorough analysis, for the continued health and strength of our iconic company, we feel that we have been left with no other alternative. These bills would prevent Smith & Wesson from manufacturing firearms that are legal in almost every state in America and that are safely used by tens of millions of law-abiding citizens every day exercising their Constitutional Second Amendment rights, protecting themselves and their families, and enjoying the shooting sports. While we are hopeful that this arbitrary and damaging legislation will be defeated in this session, these products made up over 60 percent of our revenue last year, and the unfortunate likelihood that such restrictions would be raised again led to a review of the best path forward for Smith & Wesson.”

Smith further praised Tennessee’s leaders: “The strong support we have received from the State of Tennessee… combined with the quality of life, outdoor lifestyle and low cost of living in the Greater Knoxville area has left no doubt that Tennessee is the ideal location for Smith & Wesson’s new headquarters. We would like to specifically thank Governor Lee for his decisive contributions and the entire state legislature for their unwavering support of the Second Amendment and for creating a welcoming, business-friendly environment.”

S&W’s Tennessee factory and headquarters construction will commence in the 4th quarter of this year and is expected to be completed by mid-2023.

Permalink Handguns, News No Comments »
June 19th, 2021

Father’s Day Sale at Palmetto State Armory

Palmetto State Armory Father's day sale

Palmetto State Armory (PSA) is running a big Father’s Day Sale right now. Scores of popular products are deeply discounted — typically 20-30%. For some products the prices have been cut in half! Save on AR Uppers/Lowers, Handguns, Shotguns, Rimfire rifles, Triggers, Optics, Chassis Systems, Magazines, and more. Don’t delay as inventory is limited for many of these items, and the sale prices may expire after Father’s Day (Sunday, June 20, 2021).

Here are EIGHT GREAT Father’s Day Deals at PSA today. CLICK HERE view ALL items on sale (over 250 total as this is released):


Click on Photos to Access Sale Items at Palmetto State Armory

PSA stripped lower AR15 Fathers Day sale 2021 PSA Complete Lower AR15 Fathers Day sale 2021
Palmetto PSA Complete Upper Kit Vortex Scope Fathers Day sale 2020 Lower Kit Palmetto Armory Fathers Day sale 2021
Palmetto 22 LR AR15 rimfire Fathers Day sale 2021 Palmetto Rossi RS22 .22 LR Rimfire Fathers Day sale 2020
Palmetto Smith Wesson 9mm EZ Fathers Day sale 2021 Palmetto Vortex Red Dot Optic Scope Fathers Day sale 2020
Permalink Handguns, Hot Deals, News, Tactical No Comments »
May 5th, 2021

Smith & Wesson Will Sell Off Thompson/Center Arms Business

smith wesson thompson center arms T/C sale divest divestiture Massachusetts

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ: SWBI) plans to divest (sell off) its Thompson/Center Arms (T/C) brand. This T/C divestiture as part of a “broader strategic plan” by Smith & Wesson to focus on its core S&W brands. So soon Thompson/Center rifles, muzzleloaders, and single-shot pistols will no longer be produced by Smith and Wesson. Accordingly, if you’ve been thinking about getting a T/C gun, now may be a good time to buy. We predict inventories will be sold off at discounted prices. NOTE: S&W remains committed to providing customer service to current T/C gun owners.

Smith & Wesson President/CEO Mark Smith declared: “Thompson/Center is a beloved hunting brand with a longstanding heritage, and we are committed to ensuring a smooth transition. Thompson/Center Arms’ loyal consumers should rest assured that they will continue to receive the world-class firearms, accessories, and customer service support that the brand has been known for since its founding in 1965. We remain fully committed to the hunting and long-range shooting market, and with this divestiture we will be able to now focus on these categories under our iconic Smith & Wesson brand. Additionally, this will allow us to immediately redirect manufacturing capacity to increase overall production volumes, allowing us to gain additional market share[.]”

No Buyer Currently for Thompson/Center Arms
At this time, a buyer for the Thompson/Center Arms brand has not been identified. However, the divestiture is not expected to have a material financial impact on S&W’s first quarter fiscal year 2022 results. S&W expects the divestiture “to be accretive to the Company’s full year fiscal 2022 through higher overall production levels, increased margins, and lower marketing costs”. The Company states that this decision will NOT result in a workforce reduction as it will “repurpose capacity immediately” to other areas.

Thompson/Center Arms — Types of Firearms Currently Produced

Thompson/Center Arms produces a wide range of firearms including bolt-action rifles, semi-auto rimfire rifles, muzzle-loaders, plus T/C Encore rifles and pistols. Expect all these firearms to be discounted heavily in the months ahead. CLICK HERE to see the full line-up of T/C firearms at TCArms.com.

smith wesson thompson center arms T/C sale divest divestiture Massachusetts

About Smith & Wesson Brands
Smith & Wesson Brands is a leader in firearm manufacturing and design, delivering a broad portfolio of handgun, long gun, and suppressor products to the global consumer and professional markets under the iconic Smith & Wesson, M&P, and Gemtech brands. The Company also provides manufacturing services, including forging, machining, and precision plastic injection molding services.

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January 27th, 2021

Gunsmarts Video Series from S&W — Safety and Gun Handling

Smith Wesson gunsmarts safety pistol shooting sights grip stance training videos

Do you know someone getting started in the shooting sports? Or perhaps you know shotgun or rifle shooters who want to improve their handgun skills because they have obtained CCW pistol permits? Then here is a good resource for those shooters-in-training. Smith & Wesson GUNSMARTS is a new video series that covers the key points of firearm ownership, from purchasing a pistol, to shooting techniques, gun safety, and storage. While this 38-part series does include some rifle-centric videos, it is mostly focused on handgun training, as you might expect from Smith & Wesson.

CLICK HERE to Watch All 38 S&W Gunsmarts Videos »

The GUNSMARTS series has 38 different videos covering gun safety, gun operation, marksmanship, maintenance, and secure storage. There are both general videos about gun handling and very specific videos about topics such as sight alignment, magazine loading, optics and more. Here are six of the best videos in the series. You will find 32 more on the Smith & Wesson Gunsmarts Playlist Page.

10 Tips for Your First Visit to the Range

Shooting Fundamentals — Sight Picture and Sight Alignment

Handgun Skills — Grip Pressure

Concealed Carry Positions and Holster/Belt Options

Considerations When Purchasing Your First Firearm

Smith Wesson gunsmarts safety pistol shooting sights grip stance training videos

Smith Wesson gunsmarts safety pistol shooting sights grip stance training videos

Permalink - Videos, Handguns, Shooting Skills, Tech Tip 1 Comment »
December 8th, 2020

Smith & Wesson Will Donate $500,000 to NSSF

Smith Wesson Brands NSSF national shooting sports foundation $500,000 donation

Now this is definitely “putting your money where your mouth is”. Kudos to Smith & Wesson for helping fund the NSSF at a time when our gun rights are being seriously challenged at Federal, State, and local levels.

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. announced today that it will donate $500,000 to the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) to help fund the Foundation’s continued efforts to advocate gun rights and support the firearms industry. SW declared that “The work that the NSSF performs on behalf of the firearms industry is unparalleled and [it] been instrumental to ensuring the success of the industry for almost 60 years.” This $500K donation adds to another half-million dollars S&W has given to the NSSF over the past 11 months.

“When the NSSF decided to cancel the 2021 SHOT Show, we felt it was important to show them that we stand behind them during these challenging times. Smith & Wesson fully supports the NSSF and the work that they continue to do on behalf of our industry”, said Mark Smith, S&W President and CEO. “The National Shooting Sports Foundation is a strong advocate for the Second Amendment and helps promote hunting and the shooting sports. Smith & Wesson is proud to have donated over $1 million in 2020 to support [NSSF] efforts.”

Smith Wesson Brands NSSF national shooting sports foundation $500,000 donation

About Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc.
Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Select: SWBI) is a U.S.-based leader in firearm manufacturing, delivering a broad portfolio of quality handgun, long gun, and suppressor products to the global consumer and professional markets under the iconic Smith & Wesson®, M&P, Thompson/Center Arms, and Gemtech brands. The company also provides manufacturing services including forging, machining, and precision plastic injection molding services.

Permalink Handguns, News No Comments »
November 11th, 2020

Revolver Showdown — Miculek Shoots S&W, Colt, & Ruger

Jerry Miculek smith wesson colt python wheelgun ruger revolver showdown
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.
Jerry Miculek Revolver showdown comparison S&W Colt Ruger

Colt Python (Nickel), 6-rd .357 Magnum/38 SPL, 6″ Barrel.
Jerry Miculek Revolver showdown comparison S&W Colt Ruger

Ruger Speed Six, 6-rd .357 Magnum/38 SPL, 3″ Barrel.
Jerry Miculek Revolver showdown comparison S&W Colt Ruger

Jerry Miculek Revolver showdown comparison S&W Colt RugerTesting 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

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October 12th, 2020

Bargain Finder 264: AccurateShooter’s Deals of the Week

AccurateShooter Deals of the Week Weekly Bargain Finder Sale Discount Savings

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.

1. Sportsman’s Warehouse — Tikka T3x SS Superlite, $699.99

tikka rifle sale
Very good choice for hunting rifle — light, accurate, good action

We are fans of Tikka rifles for hunting. Build quality is good, and Tikkas have nice triggers and smooth-running actions. The Tikka T3x SS Superlite Rifle, a Sportsman’s Warehouse exclusive, is now on sale for $699.99 — a $100 savings off the regular price. Offered in numerous chamberings, this rifle features stainless action and barrel, light overall weight, and nice, 2-4 lb. adjustable trigger. Weight (without scope) is just 5.9 pounds. The T3x has a “noise reduction” synthetic stock.

2. Amazon — Tipton Ultra Gun Vise, $129.95

tipton gun vise
Very strong and versatile — use for all kinds of firearms

You need a solid, secure platform to clean and work on your guns. Most gun cleaning stands aren’t adjustable enough or are too flimsy. Not so with the Tipton Ultra Gun Vise. Weighing-in at about 10 pounds, this beefy gun vise provides a steady base. The frame is metal for strength. This Ultra Vise boasts stout adjustable jaws, specialized AR holder, and several accessory trays. Threaded feet allow the vise to be leveled on your bench. With this system you can work on just about anything including bolt-action rifles, AR-platform rifles, shotguns, pistols, and even compound bows. To fit wide forearms, you may have to remove or modify the front pads. Our Deals Editor, who owns this gun vise, reports this is an outstanding product, well worth the $129.95.

3. Sportsman’s Warehouse — Leupold Scope Sale with Gift Cards

leupold scope sale
Great prices on Leupold scopes — cash gift cards too

Hunting season is upon us. If you’re looking for a tough, “go anywhere and never lose its zero” hunting scope, think Leupold. Sportsman’s Warehouse is running a Leupold Gold Event Sale right now. You’ll find riflescopes, binoculars and more at very good prices. PLUS you’ll earn free gift cards worth $10, $25, $50, or $75 depending on how much you spend.

4. Midsouth — SAE/Metric/Hex/Torx P-Handle Driver Set, $43.99

wheeler tool hit

Nearly every firearm, press, ring set, or other gun accessory relies on hex or torx wrenches. You need the right tools for the job. Check out this SAE/Metric/Hex/Torx P-Handle Driver Set 30 Piece tool kit at Midsouth. It features popular driver types/sizes you’ll need, held in a convenient stand. These special “P-handle” drivers provide two different lengths and leverages ensuring you’re always in control of any threaded fastener.

5. CDNN — S&W SW22 Victory Pistol + Range Kit, $389.88

smith wesson range kit
Everyone needs a good .22 LR pistol — this is complete kit

Everyone should own a good .22 LR pistol. Rimfire pistols are fun and great for training. Plus .22 LR ammo is cheap! If you’ve been looking for a nice, yet affordable .22 LR pistol, the Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory is a good option. And right now you can get a complete SW22 Victory Pistol plus STS RANGE KIT for just $389.88. Not only do you get a great stainless .22 LR handgun (with fiber optic sights and included Picatinny rail), but you also get a range bag, ear muffs, safety eyewear, a bore snake, and a 10-pack of Caldwell Orange Peel bullseye targets.

6. Creedmoor — Konus 20-60x80mm Spotting Scope, $299.95

konuspot spotting scope
Good spotter for price that includes tripod and carry case

Spotting scopes are vital tools for shooters. But they can be pricey, especially those with large front objective lenses. Enter the Konuspot 80 20-60x80mm Spotting Scope from Creedmoor Sports. The big 80mm objective gathers plenty of light —- good for low-light shooting and observing. For the money, this is a surprisingly good spotter (though don’t expect it to compare with a high-end Kowa, Swaro, or Zeiss). And if you order now you get a small tripod, protective case, camera adapter, and smartphone adapter at no extra charge. Very good package deal.

7. Graf & Sons — Alternatives for Hodgdon H4350 & H1000

vihtavuori imr powder
Can’t find H4350 or H1000? Try these powders instead

Powder shelves are empty in stores, and popular powders like H4350 and H1000 are even out of stock at online vendors. Did you know there are some great alternatives out there That ARE in stock? If you’re looking for a great alternative to H4350 that shoots cooler and is temp-stable, consider Vihtavuori N165. If you’re searching for H1000, we recommend IMR 7977 Enduron as a fine substitute. Both of these choices are in stock now at Graf’s, which has very reasonable shipping and HazMat fees.

8. Brownells — MagPul 30rd PMAG Gen M2 10-pack, $119.99

pmag magazine
Insanely good deal on quality MagPul PMAG® AR magazines

In today’s world, AR owners can use plenty of high-quality, reliable “full-capacity” magazines. Right now Brownells is running a great sale on MagPul PMAGS — some of the best you can buy. MagPul’s TEN-Packs of AR-15 PMAG Gen M2 30-round MOE Magazines are on sale now for just $119.99. But it gets better — on checkout use Brownells CODE PTT to save another $10, for a net cost of $109.99. This is a killer deal on excellent AR PMAGs.

9. Amazon — Silicone Gun Socks with Multiple Sizes, From $3.79

silicone gun sock
Long guns should be in gun socks or borestores when in gunsafes

Most people think that once you put a gun in the vault it’s safe from corrosion but that couldn’t be further from the truth. We can’t count the number of people who have left guns in a safe for years only to pull them out and find rust all over them. Avoid future surprise and disappointment by using these affordable silicone treated socks. Offered in assorted sizes for pistols, rifles, and shotguns, prices range from $3.79 (pistol) to $7.39 (tactical rifle). We also recommend using Eezox or other good corrosion inhibitor on metal parts. With that and a good treated gun sock and a Goldenrod, rust should not be a worry anymore.

Permalink Bullets, Brass, Ammo, Handguns, Hot Deals, Optics, Tactical No Comments »
November 18th, 2019

Smith & Wesson Parent AOBC Splits into Two Companies

American Outdoor Brands Smith Wesson spin-off industry

American Outdoor Brands Corporation (NASDAQ: AOBC), one of the world’s leading providers of firearms and products for shooting, hunting, and outdoor enthusiasts, is splitting into two separate companies, with the Smith & Wesson gun business becoming a stand-alone enterprise again. Last week American Outdoor Brands’ Board of Directors unanimously approved a plan to spin-off its outdoor products and accessories business as a tax-free stock dividend to its stockholders. The proposed transaction, which is expected to be completed in the second half of calendar 2020, would create two independent, publicly-traded companies: Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (encompassing the firearm business) and American Outdoor Brands, Inc. (encompassing the outdoor products and accessories business).

READ More about Smith & Wesson Spin-Off HERE »

American Outdoor Brands Smith & Wesson spin-off industry

According to AOBC: “The purpose of the spin-off is to enable the management team of each company to focus on its specific strategies, including (1) structuring its business to take advantage of growth opportunities in its specific markets; (2) tailoring its business operation and financial model to its specific long-term strategies; and, (3) aligning its external financial resources, such as stock, access to markets, credit, and insurance factors, with its particular type of business.”

Barry M. Monheit, Chairman of the Board, said, “There have been significant changes in the political climate as well as the economic, investing, and insurance markets since we embarked upon what we believe have been our very successful diversification efforts. We believe that separating into two independent public companies will allow each company to better align its strategic objectives with its capital allocation priorities. From the standpoint of our stockholders, at the time of the spin-off, the AOBC stockholders will own 100% of each company, thereby maintaining their pre-spin interest in both companies, and will thereafter have the ability to make distinct investment decisions tailored to their particular investment profile.”

Mark Smith Will Lead Smith & Wesson After Spin-Off
Upon successful completion of the spin-off, Mark Smith will become CEO of Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc.; Smith is currently the President of the Manufacturing Services Division of AOBC and supports all of its businesses. James Debney, current AOBC President and CEO, will lead the outdoor products and accessories company as CEO after the spin-off.

The Future of Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (Projections)
Headquartered in Springfield, Massachusetts, Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. will continue its 167-year-old heritage of producing firearms. This business’s handgun, long gun, and suppressor products are marketed under the Smith & Wesson®, M&P®, Performance Center®, Thompson/Center Arms™, and Gemtech® brands. The company’s financial profile is expected to yield strong cash flows and profitability with a plan to eventually return capital to stockholders in the form of dividends and stock repurchases. Assuming a spin-off in eight to ten months, Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. is expected to generate revenue between $450 million and $500 million and adjusted EBITDAS between $90 million and $105 million in its first 12 months as an independent company.

News Tip from EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions.

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November 6th, 2019

Smith & Wesson 9mm Shield Pistol $199.99 with Factory Rebate

Smith Wesson M&P 9mm pistol handguns rebate cash-back Palmetto state armory

If you are looking for a compact carry pistol, consider the Smith & Wesson 9mm M&P Shield. This is a comfortable, well-built gun with a better trigger (in our opinion) than a Glock. S&W products display excellent machining and good fit and finish. Moreover S&W offers a rock-solid warranty. To add extra incentive, Smith and Wesson is now offering a $50 Cash-Back Rebate for purchases of the 9mm M&P Shield through 12/8/2019. This offer also applies to the .380 ACP Shield EZ.

Smith Wesson M&P 9mm pistol handguns rebate cash-back Palmetto state armory

With the $50 Rebate you can get the 9mm M&P Shield for just $199.99 net cost at Palmetto State Armory. Palmetto’s price before rebate is $209.99. Once you receive your $50 pre-paid Credit Card from the manufacturer, that reduces the effective price to just $199.99.

Smith Wesson M&P 9mm pistol handguns rebate cash-back Palmetto state armory

Smith & Wesson 9mm Shield Pistol Evaluations
Is the 9mm M&P Shield 2.0 a good pistol? Here are three helpful video reviews. We think this little pistol offers a very good combination of reliability, concealability, and affordability.

S&W 9mm M&P Shield 1000-Round Review

Jerry Miculek and Julie Golob Demo the Smith & Wesson Shield

S&W 9mm M&P Shield Long-Term (2 Year) Review

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August 14th, 2019

Smith & Wesson Revives Model 648 .22 WMR Revolver

smith wesson S&W model 648 revolver wheelgun .22 WMR Winchester magnum rimfire 6

We love Smith & Wesson rimfire revolvers. We have put thousands of rounds through S&W Model 617 revolvers, with 4″ and 6″ barrels. These stainless .22 LR handguns are accurate, superbly reliable, and they hold their value. In general we’ve found that Smith & Wesson rimfire revolvers may be less fussy with ammo, and more trouble-free than typical semi-auto rimfires. Bottom line, we feel that everyone should have an S&W rimfire wheelgun in their collection.

And now there’s a great additional Rimfire Revolver option from Smith & Wesson — the “revived” Model 648 in .22 WMR. This stainless Model 648 brings a more powerful cartridge to S&W rimfire revolver fans.

smith wesson S&W model 648 revolver wheelgun .22 WMR Winchester magnum rimfire 6Built on S&W’s medium K-frame, the 8-round Model 648 is designed for small game hunting and target shooting. The .22 WMR is definitely a much more potent varmint cartridge than the .22 LR. You have more downrange energy plus a flatter trajectory. While the 648 does not come with an integral scope rail, it is not difficult to mount red dot or optical sights to this wheelgun.

The Model 648 revolver is built on a stainless steel medium K-frame and includes black synthetic finger groove grips, a black patridge front sight, and adjustable rear sight. This impressive revolver features a full underlug six-inch barrel, eight-round capacity, and is available with an MSRP of $749.

Model 648 History and Features

According to Guns.com: “The K-frame .22 WMR-caliber Model 648 first appeared in Big Blue’s lineup in 1989 sporting a full-lug barrel and stainless steel construction. Retired since 2005, the newest generation of the Model still brings a 6-inch barrel to the party, which translates to a very commanding 11.1-inch overall length. Weight is 46.2-ounces in the eight-shot .22 Mag, making the gun attractive for both those looking to fill pots and smoke targets.” Shown below is a vintage Model 648.

smith wesson S&W model 648 revolver wheelgun .22 WMR Winchester magnum rimfire 6

Jan Mladek, General Manager of Smith & Wesson General Manager Jan Mladek reports: “The Model 648 is back in production to satisfy the needs of handgun owners who are looking to achieve greater distance while hunting or target shooting. With a full underlug, six-inch barrel and a patridge front sight, the Model 648 has been designed … to boost accuracy at longer distances. While we currently offer .22 Magnum revolvers in both our J-frame and Classics line, we are excited to add this new .22 Magnum revolver to the modern K-frame lineup.”

Permalink Handguns, Hunting/Varminting, New Product, News 5 Comments »
April 30th, 2019

Pistol Instructor Offers Critic A Slice of Humble Pie

Smith Wesson pistol accuracy Grutter M&P 45 .45 ACP Winchester ammo
Shown is the Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm model. The M&P 45 is the same except for chambering.

You’ll hear some shooters complain loudly about the (perceived) lack of accuracy of their handguns. Well, sometimes the problem IS the gun, but other times the problem is “driver error”. At the range, we often hear guys blame their gun for poor accuracy, when in fact the real problem is lack of operator skill. This saga, posted recently on Facebook, is a case in point.

Here’s the story. A gentleman attending an armorer’s course at Smith & Wesson was loudly dissing a S&W M&P 45, claiming it could not shoot. Very loudly he tells the instructor, “the M&P 45 one of our officers is carrying is sh*t”. He then trash-talks the gun, saying that both he and his officer couldn’t get the gun to shoot decent groups, either with FMJ or duty ammo.

Well it seems that Gregory Grutter, S&W’s Chief Firearms Instructor, happened to overhear these vociferous complaints, so Grutter asked to test-fire the M&P 45 pistol. Grutter put a couple of his business cards up at 15 yards, then shot one with Winchester Ranger SXT and the other with Winchester White Box ammo. Grutter’s best group was about half an inch, measured with OnTarget. Check it out:

Smith Wesson pistol accuracy Grutter M&P 45 .45 ACP Winchester ammo

We’re told that, after hearing the litany of complaints, Grutter walked over to the loud-mouthed grumbler and asked: “Hey Sir, can I shoot it?

“Have at it, I don’t want that POS back!” said Mr. Negative.

Kharma time baby… In Grutter’s hands the M&P performed superbly. Here are Grutter’s two 5-shot groups, each shot at 15 yards with the .45 ACP Smith & Wesson pistol. Pretty darn impressive:

Smith Wesson pistol accuracy Grutter M&P 45 .45 ACP Winchester ammo

After seeing this, the complainer asked: “Why did you shoot your cards — Ain’t got no targets?”

Grutter smiled and replied: “Nah… in case you or your officer want to learn how to shoot [this way] you will have the numbers to call.” Badda Bing!

Permalink Handguns, Shooting Skills 5 Comments »
July 8th, 2017

Rebate Mania — Save Money with Eight Great Rebates

pistol rifle remington marlin smith wesson rebate hornady walther taurus nra membership

Many gun-makers and gear manufacturers have excess inventory. To move product they are offering a variety of incentives — discount coupons, free accessories/upgrades, and cash-back rebates. Here are some of the best gun industry rebates we’ve found. Some of these offers can save you hundreds of dollars on a new firearm. Other deals can deliver free bullets, free magazines, free batteries, or even a free NRA membership.

Remington Live Ready Rebates
Save $60-$160 on select Remington Rifles and Shotguns. Save $50-$100 on select Remington pistols. Mail-in Rebate.
Expires: July 30, 2017

Hornady Get Loaded 2017
Get 500 free bullets with the purchase of select Hornady Lock-N-Load reloading products, with Mail-in Coupon.
Expires: December 31, 2017

Bushmaster Rifle Rebate Days
Purchase any select qualifying Bushmaster rifle and receive $150 cash back (except QRC). Receive $75 cash back on QRC models.
Expires: July 30, 2017

Marlin Firearms Rifle Rebates
Cash back on qualifying Marlin rifles: $50 on select Marlin 336W, $75 on Marlin 336 and 1894 Models, and $100 on Marlin 1895.
Expires: July 30, 2017

Smith & Wesson Summer Rebates
Purchase any NEW qualifying M&P Full Size, Compact, or M&P Shield Pistol and receive 2 magazines, 2 boxes of ammo, and a Caldwell Mag Charger via Mail-In Rebate.
Expires: September 30, 2017

Crimson Trace Battery Promo
This unique program allows (1) set of batteries per calendar year, per product and is valid for most Crimson Trace products and battery types. Free Batteries for Life.
Expires: Not Listed

Walther $100 Cash Back
Get $100 cash back when you purchase any qualifying Walther model PPS or PPQ handgun. Mail-In Rebate.
Expires: September 15, 2017

Taurus — Free NRA Membership
Receive a Free NRA Membership with purchase of new Taurus Firearm.
Expires: December 30, 2017

Sale/Rebate Tip from EdLongrange. We welcome reader submissions
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