Firearms General (235)
Woah! Who would have ever thought that S&W would bring back a 10mm? And not just one but two new M&P2.0's!
There is a 4" and a 4.6" both optics-ready with thumb safety or not as options.
Long live the 10mm!
Build your model here:
https://www.smith-wesson.com/product/mp-m20
Oh wow! This is a complete surprise and a pleasant one too!
Springfield had teased with a workbench featuring a picture of John Moses Browning along with a clock stopped at 1935 and the words "We're bringing it back."
https://www.guns.com/news/2021/10/22/is-springfield-armory-making-a-browning-hi-power
We had dared hope that it was true. If you have read this blog for awhile, you will know that I am a HUGE fan of the FN/Browning HiPower. I own a few different ones currently (FN, T-Series, FEG, a 40 converted to 9mm for +P+) and I was sad to see Browning discontinue them. There is still controversy as to why and who is responsible. I asked both the Browning and FN Rep. at SHOT when they were discontinued (2018) and both pointed their finger at the other. FN indicated that production could come back if wanted/needed and Browning said that they were pursuing a modern replacement that never came to fruition. As we know, you can't necessarily trust sales people anyway ;)
This is brand newly introduced (today) so there is little info on it other than what SA has released, but based on what I read:
TAKE MY MONEY!!
You can read the details but for me a couple of the highlights are forged including barrel (interesting since FN moved to cast frames for more strength), dovetail sites, ring hammer, functional and positive safety, decent trigger (comparitvely according to the brochure) and NO mag disconnect!
Mags will drop out freely!
https://www.springfield-armory.com/sa-35-series-handguns/sa-35-handguns/sa-35-9mm-handgun/
Here is a pic taken from the Springfield link above:
For fun here is my personal favorite HiPower. It's my FN 40-to-9 (BarSto), with some C&S parts and the now (sadly) defunct Robar NP3 nickel finish.
The amazing stippling (front and back from top to bottom) was done by Karl at Federal Way Discount Guns in WA.
I am a big fan of their Mantis-X and have a review [here].
Products that help you train are always a plus and their software is very helpful.
When Mantis offered me the chance to try out their Blackbeard product, I was excited.
Ammo, although more available than this time last year, is still expensive. I will admit, sadly, that my AR shooting was basically non-existent this past summer and replaced mostly with 22LR plinking. I know that I am not the only one.
The Blackbeard is a product that lets you practice on your favorite AR without having to use any ammo. It resets the trigger after every shot and has a bore laser.
Packaging and presentation
The package is very professional looking and put together well. There was also a branded outer sleeve, but I had already taken it off:
Mantis takes packaging seriously. The Mantis-X comes in a Pelican hard case.
The Blackbeard comes in a semi-hard clamshell zippered case:
Inside the package
Magazine/battery
- A “magazine” which is the product's battery. It has a micro-USB charging port (same as Mantis-X), located at the top right of the pic.
The top of the magazine has the connection for the bolt assembly.
"Bolt carrier group/charging handle"
- A single-piece bolt carrier group and charging handle replacement replaces your existing parts. This includes hammer reset and laser sight.
In the bottom pic you can see the connectors that meet the battery. Insert mag so that they line up :)
Incidentally, should you de-cock the rifle (fire) it and it doesn't re-cock drop the Blackbeard mag and re-insert it. If it has a charge it should recock the rifle.
Accessories
- Mantis sticker, wrench for laser adjustment, USB cable for charging.
The cable is a bit short, but most people have a box of them.
Instructions
The instructions are short, but they are spot on.
Laser Academy
An advertisement for Mantis’ Laser Academy which is a completely different training system for this type of system. I would have liked a little more information on it, as I completely missed the fact that it is a separate app than the one MantisX uses. Instructions, or a link to their YouTube video on it would have been helpful, but it was easy enough to find online. Ok, I am not showing you the other side of the card which says to download their app lol. I thought I already had it though.
I will follow up discussing Laser Academy in a later post.
Here is the link if you are interested: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sKpQRoaMENk
Installation
For Blackbeard, you basically replace your AR’s bolt carrier group (BCG) and charging handle with the one-piece Blackbeard. The instructions are good, although I suspect that most users will not need them.
Blackbeard in a Colt 6920 (sorry for the pic, it wouldn't fit in the light box lol):
Does the Blackbeard "carrier" fit?
I used it in a few different AR’s. Ease of install varied a bit from rifle to rifle:
- Retro A1-build (Brownells): The assembly went in and out the easiest, with no pressure or tools needed.
- Aero-build: This was the opposite, VERY tight closing the upper and a punch was needed to push the pin out to disassemble.
- Colt and
- Surplus Arms (SAA)-build: Both the SAA and Colt were a bit tight to close and a little stiff to pop out the pin.
Magazine fit
The magazine (battery) inserted and dropped out of each of the AR’s without issue. had no issues in any of the rifles.
Laser modes
The laser has 2 modes: constant and trigger-activated. It can be switched with a simple flick of a switch on the BCG unit.
The instruction sheet above shows and the first assembly pic shows it in the top right. It's a simple flick up/down and you can use your finger or the tip of a pen to change.
Constant laser
Using constant on mode, the first thing that I thought of was: laser bore sighter. I think that this will easily get you on the paper. I have an expensive laser bore sighter that I got off Amazon for like $50. It uses spring prongs on the end of the barrel. I think that the Blackbeard would be more consistent. In my rifles I found the optics to be consistently 1.5” – 2” above the Blackbeard. This makes sense since they are sighted in very close - in between bullet rise and optic mounting.
Putting Blackbeard in various rifles showed the laser position to be consistent. So, a bore sighter as an unintended plus? Maybe -- Unfortunately, the distances available in my house are fairly short, so I need to take the rifles out and test that theory.
This would be good if you want to sandbag your rifle and practice pulling through the trigger noting movement. To be honest, none of my rifles are “precision-grade” and I am far from a marksman so that is of limited value to me. It does show the trigger differences between rifles though.
Trigger activated laser
I prefer the trigger-activated mode. Essentially, the laser activates momentarily every time you pull the trigger. The Blackbeard resets the trigger each time with an audible click. Mantis advertises that it can cycle the hammer up to 10 shots per second. Pretty neat! It is a definite improvement over standard dry-fire practice.
What to do with Blackbeard?
Other than dry fire without racking and potentially bore sighting, what else can you do with the Blackbeard?
I found myself practicing house clearing half-jokingly – until I realized that I could potentially glean some good info and practice. Where the muzzle ends up is interesting. Also, a hard lesson was the amount of stuff in my way while trying to move through the house!
I had another person randomly put targets throughout the house. I then went through the house with them spotting where I was “hitting” the targets. Even more interesting!
I can also see different variations of this using different types of targets and if you are a glutton for punishment, you could try rifle “dot torture.”
I haven’t even tried it with just rifle mounted lights – Legos are likely to be the end of me. I could spend a lot of time learning just my house since toy placement is “dynamic.”
My next trip to my brother’s house will be with it along with some B27’s. I think that he will enjoy it and for me a new “course.” If either of us lived in a secluded area, if would be fun to set up something outside. Unfortunately, I don’t think the neighbors would be too happy about it.
Now, I don’t fancy myself ready for house clearing. In fact, from an old Wilson instructional video on the topic (paraphrased): The first rule of house clearing is DON’T. House clearing is best left as a job for a team of trained professionals.
Why? SAFETY. Not just in this scenario, but also in training.
The Blackbeard, in addition to facilitating low-cost training that doesn’t require travel, fees or ammo, it allows you to do so safely! That’s a winning combination in my opinion.
If you chose to get one, I hope that you enjoy it. Mantis does offer an instructor discount if you email them.
More info here: https://mantisx.com/products/blackbeard-the-auto-resetting-trigger-for-ar-15
I still plan on trying the Blackbeard with Mantis’ Laser Academy. I will post after I work with it.
NSSF: Washington State AG Opinion: Guns OK for Repair/Service Without Background Check
Written by reg mathuszHowever, the term “gunsmith” is not defined and there is no such thing as a “federally licensed gunsmith” under the Gun Control Act. In its advisory opinion the Washington State Attorney General’s Office has interpreted the term “federally licensed gunsmiths” to include federally licensed dealers, manufacturers and importers provided they are engaged in the business of repairing or modifying firearms. In the case of a manufacturer and importer they must be engaged in the busines of repairing or modifying firearms “of the same type he or she manufactures” or “imports” at their premises listed on their license. The net result is that a Washington consumer may send their firearm to a dealer, manufacturer or importer to be repaired or serviced and receive it back without requiring a background check under Washington State law."
Review of the Craft Holster CH-100 OWB (for Sig P220)
Written by reg mathuszWhen Craft Holsters offered to send an OWB holster to do a review I jumped. As readers may know, I am a big fan of a good leather holster.
One of my favorite holsters (and first good holster) was a Galco Combat Master (also my first pistol). I still own both. I'd have to check my receipts but that was 30 years ago. I remember because, for me, it was a big jump $-wise to go from an Uncle Mikes holster to the Galco.
What I am saying is that a good leather holster is an investment and will serve you for many years to come. They are definitely worth the money.
I carried that combination for many years, but at some point I switched to a Sig P220 for its light-weight and out-of-box accuracy (even in my hands). At the time, I tried to go the route of an IWB like a Kramer but it is just not a very concealable pistol. As I got older it became impractical to me to to carry a such a large pistol and like others, I moved onto smaller more concealable pistols for CCW.
Although no longer my CCW pistol I still have a soft spot for my P220. In fact, taking it to the range reminded just how well it still shoots. Going through my box of holsters, I realized that I never did end up with a holster for it - I had traded/sold them!
That brings me back to Craft Holster's offer.
After taking a look at their website: http://www.craftholsters.com I was happy to find that P220. In fact, there is a good variety of other models that can sometimes harder to find. In my recent search (and on their site): CZ 75 Compact, HK VP9sk, Beretta 92 Compact (with or without rail). Additionally, newer pistols models are available like the new Glock 43x and 48. For newer Sig fans the P320s, P365 and 938 are also represented.
The "holster finder" allows you to find all their holsters that fit your model. It also gives you an in-stock status and estimated ship time.
So, with fall weather here (full size pistol time) and feeling a bit of old-school Sig nostalgia I requested a holster for my P220.
In just a few days a box arrived with the holster. The packaging is the ship box. I am all for minimal packaging, especially if it helps keeps the cost lower. For me, most of that stuff gets thrown away or lost anyway. The inside of the box has some information on their holster email club (10% off your second holster and email offers) along with support info:
The holster has a nice tan outer finish – mahogany. The boning is more detailed than the average holster, with a typical depth. I was pleased that there was no out-of-the box stain smell:
The first thing that I noticed is how thin the holster is. Leather work has come a long way! The issue with my old IWB attempts with the Kramer and now defunct C5 Custom Leather was how thick they were.
This is very thin:
Noteworthy is that the inside of the holster is unfinished and unlined. Lining adds additional cost and supposedly saves wear on your pistol, but I haven't noticed a difference.
An inside finish looks nice at first but it always wear off with usage and ends up looking the same.I have plenty of black leather holsters where the inside is tan now.
I am not personally concerned with holster wear on pistol. If it's a safe queen it should probably be in the safe and not a holster ;)
Inside, different angle:
The company logo and name are prominently stamped on the back-side. It is very clean, minimal, and looks very nice:
One thing that would be a nice addition to the holster would be what model it fits stamped into the holster - We all have A box of holsters that we are not quite sure of what they fit. For fun, I did a quick check of a few of my holsters and found that some companies, some do not, and a few vendors simply wrote the model in Sharpie on the inside of the holster. It works!
Continuing on...Double-stitching on the interior and single-stitching on the outside looks great!
Oops, is that a missing stitch at the bottom left? I am not sure if that is intentional, but there is no loose thread. Regardless, it is certainly no practical issue.
Another shot of the stitching and it also shows that muzzle is completely protected. This saves your jeans:
The sweat shield may look small but it works perfectly without requiring a huge shield. Craft calls it a partial shield and, if not convinced, does also offer a holster with a full shield.
The partial shield is a huge advantage over holsters without one (like the Galco Combat Master). Some of my other holsters do have a full guard, Sometimes they are even reinforced - and they are always huge - now I wonder why? Craft proves that all that extra material and thickness simply isn’t needed.
Notice how the "partial shield" does not dramatically over-arch the holster body?
It may not look like it covers the whole pistol completely, but I didn't feel the pistol against me. No cold steel sensation -- even with an un-tucked t-shirt.
I think that this is my favorite feature of the holster!
View from the other side:
You may have noticed that the holster does not have a reinforced mouth. Many feel that this is a requirement for rapid re-holstering. I have both and to be honest, I have never had an urgent need to re-holster. Still, it is nice not to have to use an additional hand as some holsters seem to collapse without the pistol. The Craft is actually not bad reholstering. I can press the P220 into the holster and re-holster with minimal effort and with one-hand - this is not something that I can do with all my OWB holsters.
NOTE: You do need to always glance down prior to holstering to ensure that there is no obstruction or anything that may catch the trigger. This is true of all holsters.
On the other hand (and more important to me) is that the pistol draws clean without any drag. There is no retention, but I did flip it upside down and it did not fall out with a light shake (sorry, no pic of that lol).
The belt slots are a standard 1.5”.
It fits my Wildnerness 5-Stitch perfectly:
It also fits the Wilderness CSM (polymer insert model):
One belt that a lot of holsters (especially Kydex) have issues with is the Galco SB2. It is simply ridiculously thick. Mine is at least 30 years old! (remember the quality leather statement)
The belt is a little snug going through the loops, but the Craft passes that thick belt test!
Wow, itwas a snug fit! But to be fair it is thicker than any of my other belts:
The loops passed through my Relentless Tactical "Steel Core" Ultimate Belt without any problems:
After wearing the holster for several weeks, the only noticeable wear was from squeezing the Galco Belt through! Nice quality leather and good finish.
Speaking of wearing the holster, I found it to be very comfortable. What was surprising is that the Craft's loops loops actually bend inward towards your body. With other holsters, like the Galco Combat Master, you can distinctly feel the edge of the pistol at the main holster body. I could not with the Craft. The only reason that I could think of was because of the loops. I was able to wear the holster, even seated all-day without any problem. Also, thinking that the lops bending makes the holster body a little more rigid making it easy to holster/reholster than others.
I struggled to come up with a pic that illustrates this, but this was all I could come up with. NOTE: I am actually wearing it in the pic - I tried a darker shirt but you couldn't see anything then):
In some of the photos above you can also see how the loops have become bent in from wearing it.
To conclude, the Craft Holster is very will made. It is basic (no lining, mouth reinforcement, etc) leather holster that is practical and comfortable. Their standard partial sweat guard works amazingly well and IMO should be on every holster!
Incidentally, their holsters are covered by a 5yr warranty but I suspect it will last MANY years to come.
This will not be my last from them:
Craft Holsters P220 holster selection:
https://www.craftholsters.com/sig-sauer-p220-holsters
There is a newer slimmer holster that is slimmer with better reholster capability:
https://www.craftholsters.com/open-top-leather-pancake-holster-panther
Holsters are a critical piece of equipment often taken for granted. The difference between a good holster is carrying your firearm or not. The first rule of a gun fight is to have a gun. For most of us, that means having a good holster (and belt, but that is a different story).
I started off my CCW-years using leather only. Leather is amazingly comfortable. But, in recent years, like a lot of people I moved away from leather for Kydex holsters. Kydex simply became more cost effective, thinner, lighter and for some reason the Kydex companies seemed able to add new models quicker. Over the years custom leather holster prices soared and seemed expensive. Kydex filled a category in between leather and inexpensive nylon. I even tried several less expensive custom leather companies, with mixed results. It was hit and miss.
Fast forward. I received an offer from Falco Holsters to try out one of their leather holsters. I had seen their holsters offered before on vendor sites and was curious. But, to be honest, I had never tried one before because I thought that their name was a play off of Galco Leather. It was time to give leather another try.
I was allowed to pick (from a list) of what I wanted and scrolled through the list of supported firearms (https://www.falcoholsters.com/list-of-available-guns). In particular, I was impressed by their CZ support. I have a CZ 75 Compact that is a tack driver. However, finding a good holster for it has been difficult. I have a few and none of them are satisfactory. The pistol's shape/weight is just hard for me to carry/conceal comfortably. I was pleased that Falco has a mold. Additionally, Falco has holsters for the traditional CZ75, the P01, the P07, and even the striker P10c. Impressive! CZ sells everything that they import, often with waiting lists, so I knew that CZ fans would be interested too.
Depending on what you are looking for you will like/dislike any holster maker. For newer firearms, I saw that Falco has a mold for the HK VP9 but not the VP9sk. Additionally, they have a mold for things like the Walther P99, the PPQ and even the PPX but not the PPQsc. Demand always dictates. There was nothing for the Ruger American Series while, not surprisingly, there are a number of options for the Sig P320.
Incidentally, a lot of revolvers are represented - but you may have to do your homework. For example, the only S&W 19 model they list is the 4", however, a lot of other K-frame lengths are available, but expressed in alternate model #'s (65/66, etc). I was pleased that 3"-ers are fairly well represented. I have an affinity for 3” revolvers and a quick view shows that Falco has holsters for the 3” SP101, K and L Frames. Nice!
I chose an IWB leather holster for my CZ75 Compact. I chose a model with snaps separate from the main body of the holster. In fact, the holster's configuration is due to the plethora of options available that I chose (sweat shield, cant, no retention screw, color, stitching, etc.)
The pistol itself (for those unfamiliar) is an all steel mid-size double-stack 9mm - fairly thick and heavy. It is a double-action with a hammer, kind of old school now:
Yes, it's empty:
I received the holster from Falco. Their website allows you to pick and choose the options you want, and there are a lot! It came from Slovakia and was professionally packaged:
The back, with some basic instructions on break in, usage and care:
The holster itself:
The Falco logo distinctly marks it. Everything about the holster is professionally done. No short-cuts here.
I instantly took it out and ended up wearing it for several days.
Actually, the fact that I was able to wear it that long speaks volumes. My last holster (Kydex) I gave up on after a few hours. It was not comfortable and printed – strangely the front top of slide.
I did NOT have any of these problems with the Falco. It concealed easily in just a t-shirt (that's good for a not super thin guy like me).
There was no break-in period as the instructions implied and is often expected from a leather holster. Perhaps it is from the boning being not being super deeply embossed, but it definitely enough to ensure good fit:
My CZ75 Compact fits in it perfectly. But, if you are looking for a holster where the pistol “snaps” into it with a positive retention – more than just by gravity you will want to order an holster with the retention screw option. Since I am not anticipating being upside down I did not order it with one (that's a joke). It's just what I prefer.
This falls somewhere in the middle (not loose or tight) which is a good thing IMO.
So for actual usage...
One thing that I have to do (and dislike) is frequently disarm when going to certain places. But, I often leave my holster on so that I can re-holster when possible.
I was pleasantly surprised at how well this worked with the Falco - the holster compacts ridiculously comfortably when the pistol is not it. It does not feel bulky like a Kydex holster which retains it shape. Putting the pistol back in it is no problem with the Falco’s reinforced mouth as shown in the pic above and below:
The construction of the holster is very well done. There is double-stitching for the main body:
Threads are very thick. You have the option of picking an alternate color.
I was a little bit disappointed that the snaps are not one-way - but they are very positive in snapping open/close and require quite a bit of force to undo. In fact, for the pics it took a bit of effort to snap/unsnap them without the pistol. These are not cheap snaps.
The Falco logo on them is a nice touch:
The sweat shield, even though from the pics looks a bit short, especially if you carry the pistol half-cock (which I do) or cocked and locked but I did not encounter any discomfort.
Hammer is actually fully covered:
I do not feel the hammer even in condition 1.
Sweat guard is rugged and is not flimsy:
Reinforced sweat guard from the back:
The muzzle is completely covered"
In short, this is a holster that has turned my CZ75 Compact into something that I would carry as an everyday CCW piece. A pretty good feat considering its almost 33oz weight.
Folks always ask for some shots of inside the holster, about the thickness, wear, etc. Here are a few:
Thickness/stiffness incidentally is nice. It is not a hard stiff like the new Galco holsters like the Concealable but not soft like the Don Hume.
Somewhere in between - I am not sure that helps.
From a slightly different angle, shows a little bit of rub marks (I am actually using it lol):
Slide top clears with no rubbing:
I have only been wearing it for 3 days now so the physical wear is minimal. No issue wearing it all day sitting with no pistol.
What is amazing is that I don't mind wearing this heavy pistol. This includes walking around or just hanging out at the house watching (and losing at fantasy) football.
I also have to mention that the finish is professionally done -- I have had a number of holster makers dye come off after a very short period of time which has always distinguished them from big brands like Galco.
This is not the case here, this holster has no signs of any of the finish/dye coming off. Oh, there is NO dye smell from the holster at all.
Incidentally, Falco Holsters also have a 5 year warranty.
If you are looking for a holster I highly recommend that you give Falco a try: https://falcoholsters.com - They are the real deal! I see some 3" revolver holsters in my future.
I do hope that they add some of the new striker compacts like the HK VP9sk and Walther PPQsc to their line in the future though.
And speaking of SHOT Show 2018 - I am pleased to announce that I will be there!
If you have any requests for booths for me to visit, questions to ask, pics please let me know.
P.S. I get asked every year. Only people who actively contribute articles to the shooting sports (like this Blog) are eligible to attend.
I invite folks to contribute - NSSF evaluates the Blog every year and the authors for content.
Walther PPQ subcompact to be announced at SHOT SHOW
Written by reg mathusz
had received an email from Walther that they were announcing a new pistols at SHOT Show 2018, but it appears that the cat is out of the bag.
It is a subcompact version of the Walther PPQ. It looks strikingly similar to the HK VP9SK however, has a normal (to most folks) mag release.
The PPQ's are under-rated in my opinion, but I do have to say that I am a big fan of the VP9SK. It will be interesting to see how it stacks up against it:
Media idiocy and vitriol at all time high - oh, CMP may get some 1911s after all
Written by reg mathuszHere is a news "article" that clearly where the author cannot contain his vitriol. He also can contain his lack of knowledge about firearms. I am still stunned by how LITTLE media reporters know about firearms and their COMPLETE unwillingness to learn even the simplest things.
Want to make your case against bump stocks? Maybe you should learn what one is. Still confused that it has nothing to do with an H-buffer? Anyway, I digress..
The headline alone is a give-away:
The U.S. Army Is Selling Some of Its Most Powerful Guns (and You Can Buy One)"
What's "one of its most powerful guns"? A 1911 pistol.
Yes, the 1911 pistol put into service.....around 1911.
Well, maybe the author worded it as click-bait and wanted to get click-money. Oh nope. The author clearly has some hate towards any person who potentially may want to purchase this piece of history:
"With 10,000 already transferred and 8,300 additional pistols “sold or disposed of,” per Guns.com, that means there are at least 80,000 1911s ready and waiting for a nasty civilian to give them a good home."
WOW. So much for just reporting the "facts." With a 7-round mag I am surprised he didn't call it an "assault pistol."
Anyway, here is a link to the article followed by the text in case it disappears or you don't want to give him his click-money: https://www.yahoo.com/news/u-army-selling-most-powerful-013200617.html
Article:
The U.S. Army Is Selling Some of Its Most Powerful Guns (and You Can Buy One)
The .45 ACP M1911A1 pistol has served the U.S. armed forces for more than a century in every war zone and hotspot on the planet — and thanks to this year’s federal defense budget, it will serve civilians for the foreseeable future.
The $700 billion 2018 National Defense Authorization Act that Congress sent to President Donald Trump’s desk on Nov. 16 included an amendment that required the Secretary of the Army to transfer a cache of small arms and ammo “no longer actively issued for military service” to the government-sponsored Civilian Marksmanship Program, including the M1911 and M1911A1 pistols, the M–1 Garand, and .22 rimfire rifles.
The 1911 semiautomatic pistol, invented by legendary firearms inventor John Moses Browning, proved extremely reliable in the hands of American Expeditionary Forces during the opening years of World War I. According to the National Interest, Army Sergeant Alvin C. York neutralized six German soldiers who charged him with fixed bayonets using nothing but his 1911, earning the Congressional Medal of Honor for his valor and heroism.
Although the 1911A1 variant that emerged in the U.S. after WWI was phased out of regular military service in favor of the Beretta 92 pistol (aka the M9) starting in 1985, its power persists. The Marine Corps ordered 12,000 M45A1 Close Quarter Battle Pistols, a 1911-modeled firearm from Colt Defense in 2014; the pistols went to MARSOC Raiders, with a handful going to special operations-capable Marine Expeditionary Units.
The last transfer of 1911s to the CMP was in 2015, when President Barack Obama signed a defense bill that included a measure to transfer 10,000 pistols for sale to the program; lawmakers had stated that May that the DoD spends $2 a year to store each of its 100,000 surplus 1911s. With 10,000 already transferred and 8,300 additional pistols “sold or disposed of,” per Guns.com, that means there are at least 80,000 1911s ready and waiting for a nasty civilian to give them a good home.
Jared Keller is a senior editor at Task & Purpose and contributing editor at Pacific Standard.
1911 hammer drop to half-cock solution, installing parts vs a "modular" pistol
Written by reg mathuszAll of the recent hoopla about the SIG P320 potentially firing when dropped reminded me that I had a well-used 1911 in the safe that every once and a while will drop the hammer to half-cock when the slide is racked, particularly on an empty chamber.
Let's get a few things out the way first --
1. No this is not indicative of 1911s in general or even a particular brand. It was actually my first and served a number of years as a 45 Super (with designer Ace Hindman's help - may he RIP). It was in the process of being upgraded from being VERY well used.
2. Yes, I know that it is very hard on a pistol to drop the slide on an empty chamber. In particular, it is frowned on in the 1911 world. Regardless, it should not fire.
Ok, back to the pistol. I had done a number of upgrades a few years back: sear, disconnector, hammer and trigger. However, the trigger I selected was a 1991 trigger. I chose it because I like the way that it looked, liked how it worked in my Colt's and I knew it would drop in. It turns out that it was not a good choice.
As you may have guessed it on occasion dropped to half-cock even after a new and mildly adjusted sear spring. Ok, to be fair, I probably could have really tweaked the leaf spring so that it didn't but I also didn't want a terrible trigger pull.
I ordered a Wilson ultra-light trigger. Why? Because it is a Wilson part, it said "ultra-light" and listed the actual weight. I couldn't find the weight of any of the other triggers I looked at. The theory was that trigger slap - movement actually was activating the hammer.
Disassembly revealed that the trigger was RIDICULOUSLY loose in the pistol. I mean up, down, forward, back. This was DEFINITELY the issue.
Now, with my new Wilson trigger I found that it did not fit in like a modern "modular" (aka mass produced pistol) lol. Let's be honest there is nothing on a Glock that will take more than a few minutes to replace. Fitting? Nah, 100rds on the range will do that.
But, like a traditional 1911 part the new trigger did require some fitting. I set out with a small hand-file watching TV to fit it into the channel. OK, 2 hours later it would fit into the channel but definitely not move freely. I used the hand file for about another hour. After that I took out the rotary tool. Yes, impatient! But, it was getting late and I would not have time to work on it the next day before going to the range in the afternoon. And there was a downside to my impatience - the finish. Between being tired and probably whatever I was watching I did not do a great job of paying attention and did manage to scuff the nice matte finish of the trigger. Drat. Well, this is a working pistol, and I would rather have it work than not.
I took it to the range with me and Voila! The pistol had no issues and the trigger is still decent. A success and a very inexpensive fix!
Here is a pic, at some point I will probably take out the trigger and polish it. Until then, it works and function over form.
My first pistol. Originally purchased back in like 1990! It's seen a few rounds through it.
More...
HK P9SK range review (Dang! That shoots straight!)
Written by reg mathuszI'll start with the grand finale - the HK P9SK shoots amazingly straight and very comfortably!
From the first mag I was astounded at how accurately I was able to shoot it. My friend even looked over at a group and asked "How many shots was that, 3?" I replied "Nope, 5, it shoots that straight." He replied: "Let me try that thing." And he too was pleasantly surprised with the grouping.
I think I shoot it better than my Glock 43! It definitely is a lot more pleasant to shoot.
Of course, if you look at the dimensions, you see why. It is thicker, not only in the grip due to its double-stack frame, but also the slide. The VP9SK also weighs about 5oz heavier - unloaded. I didn't take it apart to see if there was anything special in it, but it definitely shoots more pleasantly than say an M&P Compact. The trigger is better than both the Glock 43 and M&P 9c.
There a coupe of things that I should point out.
First, the slide lock is low and long. I found myself accidentally hitting it with my thumb, causing the slide not to lock back a couple of times. This is a training/practice issue. I personally prefer them to be small and out of the way, but I know that others do not.
Second, the mag release it not traditional "U.S. Style" meaning that it is located on the side and activated by your strong thumb. I actually don't mind this as prefer them to be out of the way also, but it is definitely not what I am used to and unlike all of my other pistols, except the Walther.
So, in summary, I do not think that the VP9SK is in the same deep concealment class as say the Glock 43. It is also considerably more expensive. The 43 with MagnaPorting is still less.
However, I think that accuracy is paramount and HK has a winner. Its shootability and accuracy out of the box in this size/weight class is something of an anomaly and I want one. HK needs to come up with an instructor program!
Glock 43 vs HK VP9SK
Glock 43 with Taran +1 baseplate vs HK P9SK. The HK is still noticeably longer and wider.
Review of the Mantis-X Training System for dry-fire and live-fire Featured
Written by reg mathuszI was excited when I was invited to do an evaluation of the MantisX (www.mantisx.com) training system. I think that one of the best things that an instructor can do during living fire is to literally stand behind the shooter while they shoot and watch their front sight. Once you gauge what the shooter is doing you can then examine what is contributing to any movement. It is something very hard, if not impossible, for a new shooter to do on their own.
In a nutshell, the MantisX is an accelerometer that tracks vertical and horizontal motion. The shooter attaches the Mantis to their pistol rail. It is partnered with its shooting app that compiles the results from the convenience of your iOS or Android phone! You can view the results per shot or after a string of shots, such as a grouping, mag, target, etc.. The Mantis allows a shooter to practice without the need of having that additional person “spot” for them. I feel, and hope, that this will encourage people to shoot more. I know that, for at least me, it could potentially allow for a more productive range session – especially since most people (like me) are short on time.
I got my Mantis and after quickly skimming the instructions I attached it to a Glock.
Attaching the Mantis is simple as it is designed for railed pistols. The unit separates in half and clamps on the rail. There is a screw that goes through the device and locks in place going through a rail notch. I was pleased to see that it came with not only a flat-head screw but also one that has knurled knob so that you can finger tighten it. Why two? I am not sure, but I tried both and didn't see a difference. To be fair it was a while before I noticed the knurled and found myself using at first a bottle opener to take it on and off and then later a screwdriver. The knurled knob is tool-less and much easier to use.
I wanted to try the Mantis in dry-fire mode before hitting the range. This is something that anyone can do anywhere or anytime to get used to a trigger. I downloaded the app to my iPhone via the AppStore. I assume the Android version is in the Google Play.
When you run the app it asks you turn on Bluetooth if it is not on. What is interesting is that it does not require traditional Bluetooth pairing, it just finds the device. This is nice and time-saving if you have ever had to fuss to sync and setup a device. Mantis then asks you leave the device on a non-moving table for a few seconds while it calibrates. It is then ready to use!
You do have to start/stop your shot groupings for the results (especially averages). I usually do shot groups of 5 and then check the target. I found that sometimes I forgot to stop and then start for the next batch.
I was impressed at how well the app worked, especially its presentation – it looks and behaves very professionally. This is no app that somebody threw together.
My favorite screen is a bulls-eye that onscreen shows where impact would be and the actual travel of the pistol. The tracing is very interesting. I have some detail shots later where you can see the pistols I know are fairly steady and those I don’t, well, are all over the place. More on that later.
During dry-firing I was pleased that it did not register any false shots even though I had to rack the slide every shot (I guess that is an argument for second strike capability). I was also surprised at how accurate it said I was – of course, dry fire and live fire are two different things! And now to the range with a few Glocks (19c, 23, 32, 30s).
To the range!
Session 1:
Unfortunately, I made a mistake that basically wasted this entire session. I neglected to change the app from “Dry Fire” to “Live Fire.”
The result? On average only 1 out of every 6 shots was picked up. It picked up even less with the 30s while the 19c did the best. I originally thought that it wasn’t working because I took the Mantis to the range straight out of the box without charging it. What it was able to register shots it did it well. Again, completely my fault.
Session 2:
I was a lot smarter this time and remembered to switch the Mantis into “live fire” mode. I even remembered to charge it the night before. I was time constrained however and only brought the 23, 32, and a 17 (hey, I like Glocks and they have rails).
I found that when switching the Mantis in between pistols or from dry-fire into live-fire mode it was best to turn the Mantis on/off. When I switched to live-fire, for some reason it still wasn’t picking up the shots. A quick reboot and all was well.
Cycling the power is done by holding the power button for a few seconds to turn off and then a quick click to turn it back on. The button is located on bottom of the device and accessible mounted. The button is a bit small. I found that I could kind of use my finger-nail but that a ball-point pen was perfect, especially when needing to hold the button in.
With any change (pistols, modes, etc.) it is best to cycle the app so that it re-syncs with the device.
The session results? They were perfect. The Mantis ran without a hitch on all 3 pistols and very similar to the dry-fire testing. To be fair, the midsize Glock is my CCW and I am very familiar with them.
When I dipped the muzzle or pulled a bit to the left firing (on purpose…yeah, that’s it!) the app clearly showed it with a graphical representation on the bulls-eye screen and even sometimes with helpful accompanying commentary. Example pictures of the app follow.
The targets mirrored the app. And that gave me pause. If an experienced shooter already knows what they did wrong by the time the bullet is in the air, and then can visually validate it on the target does the Mantis have limited value to them? Aside from its statistics is the Mantis something that should primarily geared towards only new shooters? Before you decide, read Session 3.
Session 3:
Thankfully, I had a lot more time this session.
Feeling confident that I am a decent (no means an expert) shooter I deliberately set out to try it with firearms that I do not normally shoot (I.E., not very good with) – traditional double-actions. I brought an FNX9 and a SIG P226 from the range (unfortunately no rails on my SIGs). I shot them exclusively in DA mode.
The P226 was great! I was off a little and the Mantis showed me that I was pulling the trigger to the left. A few mags later I was able to correct it so that the groupings were at at least tolerable.
The FNX? Wow. I am absolutely terrible with it. It is LNIB and my lack of shooting it showed. I feel confident that more range sessions and practice – with the Mantis definitely will help. But, I kind of want to trade my FNX in for a P226.
I also tried the Mantis with a Beretta APX and a CZ P10c (range pistols). It performed flawlessly. Both those pistols shoot straight, even in my hands. Unrelated, I have become a big fan of the CZ P10c.
The surprise of the shooting session came at the end. I had decided that since I still had little more time to retry the Glock 30s which was still in my range bag. It is a very recent acquisition and to be fair it has been about a decade since I have actively shot 45ACP (gasp). I am “normally” pretty good with it but not on this day. I was not as bad as with my FNX in DA mode but definitely not the nice grouping I was hoping for.
The surprise? The app indicated results completely contrary to what I saw on the target! (Pics follow) Shots that were high showed low were actually high! I am not quite sure what to make of it, but I am curious to what I was doing. I trust that the software is correct and I definitely will be taking it back to the range to figure out.
Evaluation:
The Mantis is definitely not solely good for beginners. I don't claim by any means to be an expert but I am normally (except with the FNX) a fair shot. I am impressed with the device and will be using it more.
The product is top notch and professional. The packaging is quite eye-catching (not that it is important) and suitable for dropping into a range bag and bouncing around – a number of people at the range commented on the Pelican case that it comes in. More important is that the software and hardware clearly works with multiple pistol platforms and calibers without any problem. A bonus is that it works at home as a dry-fire training device. I think that they have a great product here and I look forward to running it some more. I will report back anything of interest.
And now the obligatory PICS!
Opening the box to reveal the MantisX box inside lol
The cool little Pelican Case that the Mantis comes in.
So, what's in the box? Missing from the pic is the little instruction booklet it came with.
The Mantis app settings page
I like Glocks. The Mantis worked with Gen3 and Gen4 Glocks once I set it to "live fire" mode and rebooted the device.
Mid-sized Glocks like me.
A little more information
The APX (top) and FNX (bottom)
The FNX does not love me. Note the "possible causes" that it lists.
My double-action "pull" LOL. Not good.
A few more informational "shots." These can be helpful. I did actually try to generate a few common ones.
Mantis on the CZ P10c.
Mantis on the 30s. Notice that a flat head screwdriver is needed if not using the knurled screw.
Mantis showed that my shots were low and to the left
To the left, but not actually low. Interesting.
Overall stats page
hmm...I am not exactly sure what this is telling me
The Mantis app also has a training mode. Find yourself consistently shooting in one area? Just click on the pie segment
And the app gives you some good advice
I am not sure how I got this, but I included it because the graph was so dramatic
For additional information on this MantisX product please visit: http://mantisx.com
Thanks for reading!
P.S. Someone may notice that I didn't include a pic of the SIG P226. Apparently, I neglected to take one.
Status of the EOTech (L3) Class Action Lawsuit
Written by reg mathuszUpdate 9/19: Settlement checks are being sent out.
Someone asked me if I knew the status of the EOTech class action lawsuit (Foster vs L-3 EOTech). The official website (http://www.fostersettlement.com/) has not been updated in a while and doesn't show the results of the final approval hearing on 7/7/2017.
In fact, website http://www.eotechlawsuit.com/ actually has more up to date information, including that the order was approved and actually has a copy of the order. So what happens next?
I emailed the law firm Heffler for more up to date information and received back:
"Thank you for your correspondence. On July 7th 2017 Final Approval of the Class Action Settlement was granted at the Final Fairness Hearing. Distribution will occur within 30 days of the class action’s effective date, August 7th 2017, barring an appeal of the final approval. Please visit fostersettlement.com for all updates on the case."
SIG's statement on alleged P320 drop safety failure - zero cases - oops voluntary recall
Written by reg mathusz
updated 8/8/16:
Well, it appears that despite SIG's original press release (bottom) that there had been zero cases of discharge submitted to them, they have now issued a voluntary recall (see below).
Although I know of only one actual 3rd party video showing a discharge and a lot of hearsay regarding the Dallas PD statements (haven't seen any actual documents) it appears that there is a problem.
I am disappointed to be honest. Drop safeties/transfer bar/firing pin blocks have been a mainstay in most firearms since (at least the 1980's) - especially striker fire pistols. One of the big advantages of the pistol IMO was the trigger. I suspect that the triggers will come back a bit heavier.
Voluntary recall press release from SIG:
From: SIG SAUER - Do Not Reply To This Email <This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.>
Date: Tue, Aug 8, 2017 at 10:44 AM
Subject: SIG SAUER Issues Voluntary Upgrade of P320 Pistol
To: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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Original no problem press release from SIG:
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