Combat Handguns 201405

738 FS
It’s my choice.
It’s my right.
It’s my Taurus.
TM
Brittney L. Decatur, GA
TM
/TaurusUSA @taurususa CarryOnMovement.com

CONTENTS
MARCH 2014
VOLUME 35 NUMBER 3
890 ®
FEATURES
10 ON THE COVER NEXT-GEN GLOCKS By Jim Schaffer ON THE COVER
The G30S, G41 Gen4 and G42: advanced .45 and .380 firepower!
16 SPRINGFIELD XD-S By Dennis Adler

Upgraded pocket .45 shoots smooth, hits heavy and carries easy!
28 KIMBER TLE/RL II By Dave Bahde

SWAT-born 1911 brings tactical touches to the powerhouse 10mm platform!
10
34 WALTHER PPQ M2 5-INCH By Dennis Adler
Self-defense 9mm boasts Govt.-model dimensions and top-gun performance!
44 METRO ARMS BOBCUT 1911 .45 ACP By William Bell

All-steel big bore bred for reliability and knockdown power!
52 SMITH & WESSON M686 SSR By Martin D. Topper

16
Enhanced .357 self-defender delivers Performance Center superiority!
62 STEYR M40-A1 By Chad Thompson

Futuristic .40 delivers unbeatable ergonomics and 12+1 rounds of firepower!
68 SIG SAUER P516 By Doug Larson

5.56mm megapistol delivers devastating firepower at ranges short and long!
COLUMNS
34
6 IT HAPPENED TO ME
nighttime intruder/gas station robbery
In This Issue
Glock has long been on the cutting edge
44
of handgun design—indeed, ever
8 SELF-DEFENSE & THE LAW since the making of its first autopistol,
stand your ground—five cases profiled the G17. It’s an engineering tradition
that continues into 2014, which sees the
24 RIMFIRES introduction of two very different, yet
stealthy .22s very complimentary, Glock handguns,
the G41 Gen4 and the G42. The former is
40 LADIES ONLY a full-size .45 ACP measuring 8.9
self-defense 101 inches long overall and boasting the
58 HANDGUN HIDE
everyday concealment options
full complement of Gen4 features.
The G42, on—or, in—the other hand,
is Glock’s smallest pistol, a .94-inch-
52
slim .380 that may prove to be the most
80 ASK THE PROS smooth-shooting pocket pistol on the
Robert Vogel answers our questions market. Combined with the third of our
cover guns, the highly popular G30S .45,
88 LETTERS the G41 Gen4 and G42 offer the user
top-gun Todd Jarrett/S&W M&P45C an unbeatable array of self-defense
firepower. Of course, Glock’s aren’t the
90 NEW PRODUCTS only new guns we’re covering in our
new guns and gear that caught our eye exciting May issue—be sure to check
out our comprehensive reviews of the
93 WEBSITE DIRECTORY upgraded Springfield XD-S .45, the 9mm
visit these sites for further information Walther PPQ M2 5-inch and the big-
bore Kimber TLE/RL II 10mm, to name
94 CLASSIFIED ADS just a few. Also on tap are columns
products and services of interest on suppressed .22s, deep-cover carry
holsters, and the ins and outs of Stand
98 GUNSITE GOSSIP
a Jeff Cooper retrospective
Your Ground—essential reading for the
serious self-defending citizen.—MD 68
DON’T BE A VICTIM!
®
Publisher
Stanley R. Harris
IT HAPPENED TO ME!
Executive Publisher
Virginia Commander Glock’s six shots end late-night break-in!
Group Publisher
Shirley Steffen
Driver’s 1911 sends would-be robber fleeing!
Associate Publisher
Karin Levine
Editor-at-Large
Michael O. Humphries
Nighttime
Intruder
Managing Editor
Mark DeLucas I was home one night
while my husband
Junior Managing Editors
Laura Lancaster worked the late shift.
Chad Hollingsworth We lived in a good area,
Copy Editor but I’ve always been
ROGER BETHK E ILLUSTRATION

Ryan Pasquale
concerned about safety,
Art Director as I’m usually alone
Socrates Gomez
at night. We’ve always
Advertising Representative
Leticia Henry tried to keep that fact
quiet, so no one knew.
Advertising Coordinator
Emily Lee On one night, I had put
Production Director my children to bed and
Dennis M. Wheeler was in my bedroom
Circulation/Marketing Director watching TV. Everything
Richard Fogel made it seem like it was
Single Copy Sales Manager a normal night. But that
Richard Ciotta As the knife-wielding intruder grimly climbed the
was about to change.
Social Media Director While watching a stairs, the would-be victim raised her Glock and
Claudia Bircu fired, defending her life and the lives of her children.
show, I heard a sound
Advertising Production Manager
Danielle Correa and initially just chalked
it up to something on the TV. I figured last longer than it probably did. I suddenly
Director Digital and Mobile Publishing
Kim Shay my imagination was just getting the best felt like I was in cement as fear overtook
Cover Photo of me and did not want to overreact. me. I knew we were all in danger but
Sean Utley However, as I continued to listen, the couldn’t get my mind or body moving to
hairs on the back of my neck stood up respond. What finally broke the stalemate
Send editorial queries to
personaldefenseworld@harris-pub.com as I realized the sound was coming from was when the intruder started charging
Harris Tactical Group can be reached at:
downstairs. It was still relatively early, so up the stairs. As he climbed, I’m not sure
Phone: 212-807-7100; Fax: 212-463-9958 I knew it wasn’t my husband because he what happened, but, in an almost out-
combathandguns.com
personaldefenseworld.com rarely got home early. of-body experience, my arm holding the
Comments: To give some background, after we pistol raised up. I aimed the pistol and
personaldefenseworld @harris-pub.com first got married, my husband insisted pulled the trigger.
Subscription/Back Issues: I learn to use a gun. He kept it pretty The investigation afterwards showed
212-462-9525
backissues@harris-pub.com simple, and I settled on learning to use that I pulled the trigger six times. The
subscriptions@harris-pub.com
a Glock 9mm and keeping it in the house next thing I recall was the intruder falling
To the Readers: Be advised that there may be products
for me. I thought it handled well, was backwards down the stairs and crashing
represented in this magazine as to which the sale, easy to use, and I could shoot very well onto the bottom floor. I called 911, and
possession or interstate transportation thereof may
be restricted, prohibited or subject to special licensing with it on the range. In fact, he insisted within minutes the police and ambulance
requirements. Prospective purchasers should consult
the local law enforcement authorities in their area. All we go to the range with it at least once a were there. They later told me that the
of the information in this magazine is based upon the month so I remained familiar with it. intruder didn’t make it and that he had a
personal experience of individuals who may be using
specific tools, products, equipment and components When the sounds emanating from prior history of burglaries and rape. Had
under particular conditions and circumstances, some
or all of which may not be reported in the particular downstairs continued, I quickly went and I not had my pistol, I may have been an-
article and which this magazine has not otherwise
verified. Nothing herein is intended to constitute a got my Glock and proceeded to qui- other victim, and my children would have
manual for the use of any product or the carrying out etly check the kids’ room to ensure that been placed in extreme danger.—EN,PA
of any procedure or process. This magazine and its
officers and employees accept no responsibility for any they were safe. They were my first and
liability, injuries or damages arising out of any person’s
attempt to rely upon any information contained herein. foremost concern. I had my phone and Gas Station Robbery
realized then that I should call for help, On a hot summer day, on my way home
COMBAT HANDGUNS (ISSN-1043-7584) is published
eight times per year by Harris Publications, Inc., 1115
but, prior to my calling 911, I peeked my from work, I stopped for gas at a small
Broadway, NYC, NY 10010. Single copy price: $5.99 in head out of the bedroom door and looked station in Nashville, Tennessee. As I was
USA, $6.99 in Canada. Submissions of manuscripts,
illustrations and/or photographs must be accom- down the steps to the first floor. What I pumping gas, I noticed a man on a bike on
panied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. The
publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited saw terrified me—I noticed an intruder the other side of the road staring at me
material. Copyright © 2014 by Harris Publications,
Inc. All rights reserved under International and Pan
standing at the bottom of the stairs. intently. When traffic cleared, he clumsily
American Copyright Conventions. Reproduction in The moment was frozen in time as I peddled the bicycle across the road and
whole or in part without written permission of the
publisher is strictly prohibited. Printed in the USA. noticed a knife in his hand; it seemed to CONTINUED ON PAGE 78
combathandguns.com
SELF-DEFENSE & THE LAW
STAND YOUR GROUND

LEGALITIES
Will immunity from criminal charges keep you out of
civil court? As five real-life cases show, the devil is in
the details! BY MASSAD AYOOB PHOTO BY PATRICK LANHAM
ontrary to claims by gun
C prohibitionists and the anti-

self-defense crowd, it is false
to say that Stand Your Ground
laws allow people to shoot
anyone they’re remotely afraid of. It takes
a lot more than a claim of self-defense to
achieve immunity from criminal prosecu-
tion or civil lawsuits arising from such
acts. Let’s delve into some of the compli-
cated elements involved.
Actually reading the immunity clauses,
one finds that the determination that a
shooting was in self-defense protects
the shooter from being brought to trial in
either criminal or civil court. Remember
the old saying, “The devil is in the de-
tails?” That’s on point here. The operative
term is “determined.” stating that an investigation has deter- memorandum of closure.
mined the shooting to have been in lawful Since in Florida the Stand Your Ground
Determination Issues self-defense. hearing is reserved for criminal cases and
What constitutes a “determination” of In Case One, a woman called for her not applicable to civil cases, there was
self-defense? The answers are a bit son to help her when she found an in- no official determination of self-defense.
fuzzy here, because we’re talking about truder on their property. The son grabbed Without it, there was no bar to a massive
relatively new laws that have not been a gun and came to her aid. When the lawsuit against the shooter’s family, who
fully and widely tested by the highest interloper came at them both, he fired to owned the property where the obviously
appellate courts. In Florida, certainly, a protect his mother. The gun blast killed justified homicide took place. Last I knew,
finding of self-defense in a Stand Your the suspect. the case was proceeding, and the shooter
Ground hearing should be, by statute, a The event was thoroughly investigated. and his family were facing huge legal fees
solid bar against a lawsuit over the inci- It was a clear-cut case of self-defense, to defend themselves in court.
dent being allowed to continue. Another and the prosecutor’s office assured the It is important to note that not having
solid determination is what is called a family and their attorneys that they had been charged criminally (or even having
“memorandum of closure” issued by no intent of bringing any charges against been tried and acquitted in criminal court)
the prosecutor’s office. This is an official the shooter. But, for whatever reason, the will not automatically bar a civil lawsuit
determination, in writing, by that office, prosecutor’s office chose not to issue a from arising out of the same incident.
The reason is the different standards of
“It is important to note that not having proof required in those two separate legal
theaters. Charges may be dropped, or
been charged criminally (or even having a defendant acquitted by judge or jury,
because the prosecution could not prove
been tried and acquitted in criminal court) guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Law
professors generally describe “beyond
will not automatically bar a civil lawsuit a reasonable doubt” as a certainty high
from arising out of the same incident. The in the 90th percentile. But a civil lawsuit
judgment only requires a “preponderance
reason is the different standards of proof of evidence” standard. Preponderance of
evidence is only a greater-than-50-per-
required in those two legal theaters.” cent certainty of wrongdoing on the part
08 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

“In several states The burglar, leaving the house with a
bag of stolen goods that included loaded
good people are guns, ran to his car. He gunned the vehicle
toward the homeowner, his foreman and
seeking reform the foreman’s son while simultaneously
reaching toward the stolen guns in the
legislation similar front seat. The homeowner fired a single
shot, which killed the criminal and very
to that in Texas and likely saved his own life and those of the
two other people he was protecting.
Florida to protect On my first trip there I spoke in Case
law-abiding citizens Four, during the grand jury proceeding.
The grand jury understood this argument
from unmeritorious and returned “no true bill,” effectively rul-
ing that no crime had been committed by
criminal charges the homeowner. However, I had to come
back later to speak for him again at trial
or civil lawsuits when he was sued by the family of the de-
ceased in what was essentially Case Five.
after they have Why? Because even though Texas had
been forced to shoot passed legislation that provided immunity
to lawsuits arising from the use of force in
violent criminals in self-defense, the law had gone into effect
shortly after this shooting and was there-
self-defense. Such fore held to not apply. He went on to win in
civil court, too. But, by the time it was all
laws have done a over, he said he had incurred six figures
worth of legal fees and related costs.
great deal of good
Negligence Exemption
already.” Such immunities against prosecution and
lawsuits as they exist in some Stand Your
of the defendant. An example I reference Ground laws are strictly limited to justifi-
in regards to this subject because it is so able self-defense incidents. Negligence,
widely known to the American public is such as an unintended discharge, is abso-
the O.J. Simpson matter. In Case Two, at lutely not covered, and neither is reckless
the criminal trial, Simpson was acquitted disregard for human life. If this sort of
of a double homicide because the jury was thing becomes the core of a “plaintiff’s
not convinced beyond a reasonable doubt theory of the case,” and the plaintiff’s law-
that he was guilty. But in Case Three, yer convinces the judge that he has a solid
Simpson’s trial in civil court, Simpson was argument, you can expect the Stand Your
sued by the victims’ families, resulting in Ground protection to be set aside and the
a crushing verdict against him because lawsuit against you to proceed.
the second jury was convinced that, more
likely than not, Simpson had perpetrated Final Thoughts
the killings. This writer is a strong supporter of Castle
Doctrine and Stand Your Ground laws. At
Not Retroactive the same time, decades of working in the
In several states good people are seeking criminal and civil justice systems have
reform legislation similar to that in Texas shown me that simplistic interpretations
and Florida to protect law-abiding citizens of inherently complicated things rarely
from unmeritorious criminal charges or lead to good outcomes. If you’ve been
civil lawsuits after they have been forced counting on these laws, read and study
to shoot violent criminals in self-defense. them in detail. The better you understand
Such laws have done a great deal of them and act within their parameters, the
good already. However, if you have to use more likely they’ll be of help to you if the
deadly force to save your life tomorrow, terrible day ever comes when you actually
and such a law passes in your state the need them.
day after tomorrow, understand that you Try to remember that “devil in the
may not have retroactive protection. details” saying. The better you know the
A few years ago, I flew to Texas twice law and act within it, the more likely you’ll
to speak for a rancher who had killed a be to instead quote the great architect
burglar. This gentleman came home to Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, who said, “God
find that his house had been broken into. is in the details.”
combathandguns.com May 2014 COMBAT HANDGUNS 09

SPECIAL REPORT
NEXT-GEN
DEFENDERS
G41 Gen4, G30S and G42:
advanced .45 and .380 firepower
to break any threat, anywhere!
BY JAMES SCHAFFER
PHOTOS BY SEAN UTLEY
•
Glock’s newest thundergun, the .45-caliber, 5.31-inch-
barreled Glock 41 Gen4 delivers stellar accuracy at CQB
distances and beyond. Included with the pistol are four
interchangeable backstraps for a custom grip.

• Combining the slim slide dimensions of the
G
Glock 36 with the frame of a Glock 30 SF, lock continues to design and engi-
the Glock 30S packs up to 10+1 rounds of .45 neer pistols for all users and types of
firepower in a highly concealable package. situations—a fact well exemplified by
Glock’s three latest models, the Glock
30S, released in 2013 to wide acclaim,
• Glock’s
smallest pistol,
and the brand-new Glock 41 Gen4 and
Glock 42, in .45 ACP and .380 ACP,
the Glock 42, respectively. All three models have
chambered in a niche, if you will: The Glock 30S is a
.380, measures “covert” Glock, the mighty Glock 41 is
less than an
well suited for an overt role, and the
inch thick and
weighs just revolutionary slim-line, subcompact
13.76 ounces Glock 42 may well set a new standard for deep-
empty. Dual concealment pocket pistols.
recoil springs It should be said that the majority of Glocks in
provide for existence today are chambered in 9mm. These
a degree of include the service-size Glock 17, the versatile and
controlability compact Glock 19 and the subcompact Glock 26.
rare in a There’s also the competition-optimized, 5.3-inch-
pocket pistol.
barreled Glock 34, which has won just about every
pistol competition in which it’s allowed, from
“Practical” to “Defensive” to “Steel Challenge.” In
holsters and hands worldwide, from law enforce-
ment officers to members of the military to legally
qualified private citizens, “it’s a 9mm world,” as
noted pistol expert Ken Hackathorn says.
Two of the Glocks we are looking at here,
however, are chambered in another historically
significant caliber, .45 ACP. Designed at roughly
the same time (1905) as the 9mm cartridge
(1902), .45 ACP is sold in significant numbers
to American citizens and law enforcement
officers alike. It has also been used by
special operations teams in combat
deployments overseas. Glock has
been making .45-caliber pistols
for almost a quarter of a
century, beginning with the
Glock 21 in 1990. The
subcompact Glock 30
followed a few years
later, with SF (Short
Frame) and Gen4
variants produced
com
combathandguns.com
ombat
bathan
handgu
han dguns.
dguns.com
ns. com
o May 2014 COMBAT HANDGUNS 11
>> G30S/G41 GEN4/G42
Each uniquely
capable, the G42
(top), the G30S
(middle) and G41
Gen4 (bottom) offer
the user an unbeat-
able, versatile array
of self-defense
firepower.
thereafter. The first single-stack maga-

zine Glock produced was in .45 ACP (for
the Glock 36, which remains in produc-
tion today).
tested, accepted and placed in production
COVERT CARRY as the G30S.
A recent variant of Glock’s .45 ACP Glock’s subcompact .45 ACPs already
models is the Glock 30S. Designed to have an outstanding reputation for ac-
the specifications of the Los Angeles curacy—years ago, your correspondent,
Police Department’s Special Investigation using a G30, put a group of .45 ACP into
Section (SIS), which was looking for a the “head” of a B-27 police silhouette
powerful, concealable handgun that target at 50 yards—and the G30S proved
would give them an edge over today’s no different. Testing the gun for the
heavily armed bad guys, the G30S is in May 2013 issue of Combat Handguns,
essence a Glock 36 slim-slide mounted D.K. Pridgen shots groups measuring
onto a Glock 30 SF (Short Frame) frame. 1.38, 1.32 and 1.11 inches at 25 yards.
The Glock 36’s slide aided in deep-cover “This kind of accuracy is well beyond
concealment, and the Short Frame, what is typically needed in average self-
with its reduced trigger reach (about 2 defense circumstances,” Pridgen wrote,
to 3mm), made a noticeable difference “but for more extreme circumstances,
in the pistol’s “triggernometry.” As an it will provide the user with a real confi-
added bonus, the Glock 30 frames accept dence boost.”
the larger Glock 21 13-round magazines, Needless to say, the SIS was quite
giving the gun a totally loaded capacity of pleased with the G30S, and so, appar-
14 rounds of powerful .45 ACP. With some ently, is the shooting public, which has
minor parts modifications, the hybrid was made the gun a best seller. That the G30S

SPECIFICATIONS
GLOCK 42
Caliber .380 ACP
Barrel 3.25 inches
OA Length 5.94 inches
Weight 13.76 ounces (empty)
Grips Polymer
Sights Fixed
Action Safe Action
Finish Black, surface-hardened
Capacity 6+1
MSRP Not available
GLOCK 30S
Caliber .45 ACP
Barrel 3.7 inches
Grips Polymer
Sights Fixed
Action Safe Action
Capacity 10+1
MSRP Not available
GLOCK 41 Gen4
Caliber .45 ACP
Barrel 5.31 inches
Weight 27 ounces (empty)
Grips Polymer
Sights Fixed
Action Safe Action
Capacity 13+1
MSRP Not available
comes equipped with the usual comple-

ment of outstanding Glock features,
including the Safe Action fire control
system, proprietary super-hard and
corrosion-resistant surface finish, and
dual recoil spring system for controllabil-
ity and longevity, only adds to the pistol’s
appeal. The G30S is at once a typical
Glock—reliable, accurate and ultra-rug-
ged—and a uniquely powerful and easy-
handling deep-cover .45 semi-auto.
OVERT FIREPOWER
While the Glock 30S fills a covert need,
there are situations in which conceal-

>> G30S/G41 GEN4/G42
Though differently sized, the G41

Gen4 .45 (left) and the G42 .380
(right) boast equally easy-to-
witness white-outline sights.
ment is not a primary concern. A power-

ful, reliable and accurate pistol is still a
critical piece of equipment for uniform
and SWAT personnel. And, as renowned
instructor Clint Smith has stated and
shown, one can “dress around” the gun
to conceal it. (One demonstration Clint
was fond of showing his classes was
appearing in casual dress and “un-
concealing” over a dozen handguns!)
In the realm of full-size combat pistols,
one would be hard-pressed to find a
model more suitable than the new Glock
41 Gen4 in .45 ACP.
Using a Glock Gen4 frame, with its
multiple backstrap system that includes
four backstrap sizes, two of them bea-
vertails, a reversible magazine catch, a
high-traction texturing that wraps fully
around the gripping surface, the G41
sports a 5.3-inch, barrel. The Glock
Safe Action system, with its adjustable
trigger-pull weight capability, is included
in the design and contributes to the gun’s
competition-worthy range results. The
extended slide length of 8.31 inches gives
users a sight radius right at 7.5 inches, a
length that also has a salutatory influ-
ence on accuracy. The G41 has an outline
reminiscent of the earlier “Practical/
Tactical” models in 9mm and .40 calibers
(the Glock 34 and Glock 35, respectively).
CONTINUED ON PAGE 82

Kimber Solo 9mm Pistols.
Small. Powerful. Dependable.
The Solo® CDP (LG) and Solo® DC (top) weigh only 17 ounces. Just over
1 inch wide and with a barrel length of 2.75 inches, they establish a
new benchmark for concealed carry performance.
Solo pistols have a single action striker-fired Steel sights are securely mounted in A manual ambidextrous thumb safety,
trigger with a smooth, consistent pull that machined dovetails. CDP and DC models checkered slide release and ambidextrous
breaks clean at 6.5-7.5 pounds for fast and have night sights. Other versions have magazine release button enable intuitive,
accurate shooting. sights with large white dots. fast and safe operation.
Solo® pistols combine unequaled Kimber® quality and 9mm power in a package
that weighs just 17 ounces. Borrowing proven 1911 ergonomics, they have a
natural pointability that improves both speed and accuracy while making them
surprisingly comfortable to shoot. Solo slides and barrels are machined from
stainless steel, and frames are cut from the finest aluminum. Five models are
offered, including 2 with Crimson Trace Lasergrips. No other micro-compact
T H E C H O I C E O F A M E R I C A’ S B E S T
pistol can match the performance of a Solo. Not even close. Visit a Kimber
Master Dealer and see for yourself.
kimberamerica.com
(888) 243-4522
Kimber ofers nearly 200 purpose-built pistols and rifes to meet any need.
©2013, Kimber Mfg., Inc. All rights reserved. Information and specifcations are for reference only and subject to change without notice.
COMBAT TEST
SPRINGFIELD
Upgraded pocket .45 shoots smooth,

hits heavy and carries easy!
BY DENNIS ADLER PHOTOS BY STEVE WOODS
In 2012 Springfield Armory re- round with the magazine removed.

wrote the book on large-caliber, Not having a magazine disconnect
concealed-carry handguns with its is one of those debatable features,
introduction of the XD-S 3.3 semi- but many individuals who rely on a
auto. As one of the smallest semi- firearm for personal defense favor
auto .45 ACPs ever developed, the semi-autos that can operate without
XD-S became the blueprint for the a magazine just in case. “In case of
9mm model that followed, as well what?” you ask. The possibilities are
as for the latest .45 ACP and 9mm as simple as losing a magazine in a
models, which were introduced confrontation (an antagonist man-
this year. Externally, the new ages to hit the magazine release in
models look almost identical to the a struggle), or being in the middle
2012 edition; internally, there is a of a tactical magazine change when
difference in the internal opera- you suddenly have to fire the gun, to
tion of the grip safety, which has something as grim as not being able
been redesigned along with the to reload a magazine and having
sear, grip safety spring and sear only enough time to drop a single
spring. Another minor internal round into the chamber and release
upgrade has also improved trigger the slide to fire. An unlikely scenario
operation by smoothing out trigger perhaps, but unlikely isn’t the same
pull. The only external difference, thing as impossible.
however, is a small roll pin added The XD-S series is about more
to the grip safety in order to distin- than just achieving size reduction;
guish the new models. it is about building a semi-auto that
All XD-S semi-autos have two is also strong enough to handle
external safety mechanisms, the modern .45 ACP personal-defense
Ultra Safety Assurance (USA) toggle ammunition while remaining both
trigger (which is what most semi- controllable and accurate. Building
autos with blade-type trigger safety a subcompact .45 ACP handgun that
systems rely upon solely) com- meets these requirements has been
bined with a secondary 1911-type the goal of everyone from Colt (as
grip safety. Both must be properly far back as the 1950s) to custom
engaged in order for the XD-S to gunmakers like Detonics (in the late
fire. Another advantage is that XD-S 1970s) to contemporary manufac-
models will discharge a chambered turers like Springfield Armory.

The new Springfield XD-S .45 delivers extreme
big-bore power in a stunningly small package.
The lightweight XD-S, which measures less
than 1 inch wide, packs 5+1 rounds of .45 ACP.
>> SPRINGFIELD XD-S .45 ACP
The improved XD-S .45 is the latest The author tested the XD-S on a very
within Springfield’s numerous variations cold day, running it for accuracy at
of .45 ACP semi-autos derived from the 15 yards. There were no malfunc-
XD and XD(M) lines. While the larger XD tions, and accuracy was quite good.
series (available in 9mm, .40 S&W and .45
ACP) found great acceptance within the
general firearms community, the smaller
XD(M) became one of the most popular
personal-protection .45 ACP semi-autos
and led the company to think even small-
er with the .40 S&W XD(M) Compact. This
ultra-compact pistol raised the bar even
higher and set Springfield’s designers on
the path to developing the XD-S. Building
a gun that would be smaller than the
XDM Compact and chambered in .45 ACP
became their number-one goal.
GUN DETAILS
Part and parcel of building a smaller .45
was maintaining a reasonable 5+1 stan-
dard capacity in .45 ACP, and achieving
excellent weight and balance in the hand
to reduce recoil. Internally, the gun’s
specialized recoil spring-and-plunger de-
sign helps mitigate the recoil one might
expect from a comparatively lightweight,
polymer-framed handgun, making the
XD-S more manageable and quicker
to get back on target than expected—
quicker in fact than many larger .45 ACP
subcompacts.
The XD-S utilizes a striker-fired
system that Springfield Armory has
fine-tuned to reduce trigger take-up and
enable a short reset. Including engage-
ment of the blade trigger safety, there
is about 0.5 inches of travel, and the
trigger pull remains crisp and consis-
tent with every shot, requiring a nominal
6.875 pounds on average. This is slightly
heavier than first-generation XD-S mod-
els, and it comes as a result of internal
changes to the action. Nevertheless, for
a striker-fired semi-auto, it remains a
comparatively light trigger with negligible
SPECIFICATIONS
SPRINGFIELD XD-S
Caliber .45 ACP
Barrel 3.3 inches
Grips Polymer
¥
Sights Dovetail rear, The XD-S comes stan-
O TO S
P H OTOS
fiber-optic front dard with a synthetic

paddle holster (above)
D E N N I S A D L E R PH
Action SA
for ease of carry. The
Finish Matte black pistol can also be used
Capacity 5+1 with the DeSantis
Nemesis pocket
MSRP $599-$669 holster (right).

The slim, single-stack XD-S .45
comes standard with a white-
dot rear sight and a very easy-to-
witness fiber-optic front.
stacking and overtravel. Technically, the

trigger system on striker-fired pistols is
neither a single action (SA) nor a double
action (DA), since there is no hammer
for the trigger to act upon. The same
argument can be made for any striker-
fired semi-auto, but more often than not
you’ll see them described as SA/DA (and
some actually are). Despite this, they are
mostly regarded as double-action-only
(DAO) designs.
Despite having two external safeties,
the XD-S has a clean, uncluttered profile
with a slightly raised slide release and a
beveled takedown lever, both on the left
side of the frame. Neither has an edge
likely to catch on clothing or impede
draw or re-holstering. The checkered,
ambidextrous magazine releases are
slightly angled and require a firm press
to operate. There is also a loaded-cham-
ber indicator that can be seen and, more
importantly, felt should the user find
him- or herself in a situation that makes
a visual check impractical. The loaded-
chamber indicator is located behind the
ejector port on top of the slide. The front
edge projects upward when a round is
chambered—just enough to either see
it under your line of sight, or surrepti-
tiously feel it by running a finger over
the top of the slide. Additionally, if the
trigger has been pulled and the action
hasn’t cycled, the trigger will lock back
at its rearmost position. When the action

>> SPRINGFIELD X
XD
XD-S
D-S
-S ..45
45
45AACP
CP
CP
A 1911-style
grip safety is
located in the
upper back-
strap potion of
the polymer
frame. Note the
interchange-
able backstrap
system.
is cycled the trigger extends forward

0.62 inches to the ready position. That,
however, does not guarantee that a
round is chambered, only that the gun
is ready to fire; thus, the loaded-cham-
ber indicator is a very important feature.
Given the gun’s modest weight of 21.5
ounces empty, and its overall length of
6.3 inches with a 3.3 inch barrel, height of
4.4 inches from the base of the magazine
to the top of the rear sight and slide width
of 0.9 inches, the XD-S fits into multiple
concealed-carry categories—from sub-
compact to pocket pistol. With the latest
internal improvements, the new genera-
tion for 2014 is an even better handling
“The XD-S
gun with its improved trigger pull and
internal safety upgrades.
feels more
Standard features on all XD-S .45 ACP
and 9mm models include drift adjust-
substantial in
able front and rear sights (white-dot rear the hand than
and red fiber-optic front), ambidextrous
indexing thumb rests and interchange- expected be-
able backstrap panels to tailor the fit of
the gun to an individual’s hand.
cause it has
Another area where the XD-S excels
is the ease with which it can be disas-
a nicely sized
sembled. First, with the gun pointed in a
safe direction, remove the magazine and
grip frame and
unload the firearm. Then, draw back the
slide to the rear and lock it open, pushing
grip safety...”
up the slide stop lever. After checking to spring tension is released. While holding
see if the chamber is empty, rotate the the slide, pull the trigger with the firearm
disassembly lever clockwise to a vertical pointed in a safe direction to fully unlock
12 o’clock position. Then, pull the slide the slide from the frame. Remove the
slightly to the rear to release the slide- recoil system from the slide, and remove
stop lever. With a firm grip on the slide, the barrel from the slide. The firearm
allow the slide to move forward until the is now fully field-stripped and ready
for cleaning.
PERFORMANCE Normally, I will try a variety of holsters
SPRINGFIELD XD-S .45 ACP with test guns to find the one that works
best. Springfield, however, offers its guns
LOAD VELOCITY ACCURACY
with a complete set of accessories, which
Federal Premium 800 2.25 includes an XD Gear PH1 injection-mold-
230 Hydra-Shok JHP
ed, thermoplastic paddle holster form fit
Hornady 185 FTX 940 2.75 to the gun. The paddle rig is easy to posi-
Speer 185 HP 950 2.25 tion around the waist for a comfortable
fit and maximum concealment. It has a
BULLET WEIGHT MEASURED IN GRAINS, VELOCITY IN FEET
PER SECOND (FPS) BY CHRONOGRAPH, AND ACCURACY IN slight forward cant for ease of carry and
INCHES FOR FIVE-SHOT GROUPS AT 15 YARDS. draw, but since the injection-molded rig

>> SPRINGFIELD XD-S .45 ACP
is not adjustable for cant, it will not work feel muzzle heavy—not so the XD-S. Fully the ProChrono chronograph’s traps at
for crossdraw carry, and it is also only loaded, the XD-S’ carry weight averages an average of 800 feet per second (fps),
available in a right-handed version at 29 ounces. For most individuals, the Hornady at 940 fps and Speer at 950 fps.
present. The XD-S is also small enough little finger will tuck under the magazine Recoil was most substantial with Hydra-
to fit in any of several pocket holsters floorplate unless the optional extended- Shok, as would be expected, but even the
on the market specially designed for the capacity magazine is used. The extended heavyweight ammo delivered less recoil
gun, including the DeSantis Nemesis. magazine increases capacity from 5+1 to than anticipated for a subcompact pistol.
This alone gives the XD-S an advantage 7+1 while providing a substantial 1 inch of With very difficult weather conditions
over almost every other ultra-compact additional grip surface. It does, however, and temperatures ranging from 18 to 32
.45 ACP pistol available. make pocket holster carry more difficult. degrees Fahrenheit during the test, the
“With very difficult weather conditions and

temperatures ranging from 18 to 32 degrees
Fahrenheit during the test, the Springfield XD-S
performed admirably, placing all rounds within
the nine, 10 and X rings of a B-27 silhouette target.”
RANGE TEST For subcompact handguns with bar- Springfield XD-S performed admirably,
The XD-S feels more substantial in the rel lengths of 4 inches or less, standard placing all rounds within the nine, 10 and
hand than expected because it has a target distance is 15 yards (45 feet). For X rings of a B-27 silhouette target. All
nicely sized grip frame and grip safety, the XD-S in .45 ACP, I tested Federal hits scored five points on the B-27, with
and a center of balance in line with the Premium 230-grain Hydra-Shok, groups averaging 2.25 to 2.75 inches.
magazine release, which is spaced 3.5 Hornady Critical Defense 185-grain FTX While not a target-quality result, from
inches from the muzzle. There is also a and Speer Gold Dot Personal Protection a defensive position all rounds struck
recurve at the back of the triggerguard 185-grain hollow-point (HP) ammuni- in center body mass, and that is what
that allows the middle finger to rest tion. All tests were fired off-hand counts. Switching to the XD-S in 9mm,
higher up under the triggerguard. The using a Weaver stance and 124-grain Hydra-Shok, 115-grain FTX
weight distribution is unusual for a poly- a two-handed hold. and 115-grain Gold Dot, the Speer
mer-framed semi-auto, which generally Federal cleared averaged 1.95 inches, Federal
Premium averaged 3.75 (with
four measuring 2.1 inches) and
Hornady delivered a 3-inch av-
erage. The target was an IPSC
The dustcover section of the XD-S’ cardboard silhouette—all hits
polymer frame under the barrel landed in the “A” section.
features a short strip of accessory
rail for the mounting of FINAL THOUGHTS
ultra-compact lights As a defensive handgun
and/or laser units.
for concealed carry,
the Springfield XD-S
in .45 ACP delivers the
stopping power of .45
ACP in a size more com-
monly expected of a 9mm.
And for those who prefer
9mm over .45 ACP, the
XD-S in 9mm offers all of the
same features, 7+1 standard ca-
pacity and even more manageable recoil.
For pocket or holster carry, this is with-
out a doubt one of the best go-to guns on
the market for anyone desiring maximum
performance in a small, pocketable .45
ACP or 9mm package. For more informa-
tion, visit springfieldarmory.com or call
800-680-6866.
22 CO
22 COMBA
COMBAT
MBAT
MBAT HAND
H
HANDGUNS
AND
ANDGUN
ND GUNS
GUNS May
M ay 201
20144 combathandguns.com
RIMFIRES
STEALTHY
.22S
Sleek, silent systems

that deliver rapid,
accurate shooting!
BY JORGE AMSELLE
PHOTOS BY SEAN UTLEY
he suppressed .22 rimfire pistol certainly has Elements Of Silence
T
an aura of mystery and intrigue about it. It looks I own a Walther P22 and recently acquired the excellent AAC
and feels like it belongs in the pages of a spy Element 2 suppressor. Thanks to its titanium construction,
novel in the hands of a secret agent on assign- the suppressor adds only 4 ounces to the pistol, which keeps
ment behind the Iron Curtain and in need of it very light and easy to handle. The slight bit of extra weight
discretion. There is no question that suppressed soaks up some of the already light recoil, and since the extra
.22 pistols are cool, but it’s quite wrong to think weight is all at the front it also keeps the muzzle on target with
of them as some sort of assassin’s weapon. The virtually zero climb. This makes shooting fast and staying on
fact is that they are the ideal beginner’s pistol. target extremely easy.
The .22 Long Rifle (LR) rimfire cartridge is already well The extra length the Element 2 adds to the front of the pis-
established as ideal for first-time shooters because of its low tol—just over 5 inches—also helps emphasize muzzle aware-
recoil. The cartridge’s availability, low cost, and high fun coeffi- ness for beginners and the importance of keeping the pistol
cient also make it the most popular all-around cartridge. Adding pointed in a safe direction. The Element 2 is only an inch in
a suppressor makes it even better, and a growing number of diameter, so it stays very compact, and it has a tough Cerakote
manufacturers are for this very reason including threaded bar- black finish and stainless steel baffles for durability and ulti-
rels as a standard option on their .22 pistols. mate corrosion resistance. It can be disassembled for cleaning,
which is not something you need to do very often, but the .22LR
can shoot pretty dirty, so the occasional cleaning is a good idea.
Of course, the main advantage to adding a suppressor is the
subsequent reduction in the noise levels associated with shoot-
ing. Here the Element 2 is superb: It has a rated sound reduction
of 41 decibels (dB). This is quite a bit better than your average
hearing protection, which provides between 20 and 33 dBs of
noise reduction.
A good way to think about noise levels is with various com-
parisons. Normal conversation is 40 to 60 dBs; at 85 dBs it is
possible to sustain hearing damage with continuous noise. A
gas-powered chainsaw reaches about 110 dBs, and at 120 dBs
hearing damage can occur from a single occurrence. Your ears
will hurt at 130 dBs, and a high-powered rifle will produce 160 to
Walther P22’s threaded barrel accepts AAC’s Element suppressor. 170 dBs. Even the best suppressors will only reduce the sound

level to the comfortable range but not
necessarily the safe range.
The .22LR cartridge is not typi-
cally a major noise-maker, and decibel
levels unsuppressed can range from
90 to 120 dB depending on a variety of
factors such as ammunition and type
of firearms used. A 40-dB reduction
brings the sound level down to that of
normal conversation (not loud barroom
conversation). Indeed, when shooting
my suppressed P22, I have no need for
hearing protection at all. It sounds like
you are shooting a CO2-powered pellet
gun instead of a firearm.
The only other factor to consider
in the sound of the suppressed .22LR
is the velocity of the bullet. Rimfire
ammunition in this caliber can range
from standard cartridges that travel
at just over 1,100 feet per second (fps)
to hyper-velocity rounds that exceed
1,400 fps. The speed of sound is about
1,140 fps depending on elevation and
atmospheric conditions. When a bullet
breaks the sound barrier, you get a
sonic boom which defeats your sound-
suppression intent.
As a result, those who want the
ultimate in sound suppression will use
sub-sonic ammunition. However, in a
pistol this isn’t really necessary. The
shorter barrel length means that the
bullets do not reach their maximum
velocity (which is rated using longer
rifle barrels). Pretty much all .22LR will
shoot subsonic out of a pistol, or about
1,000 fps. I also tested this out using
high-velocity and sub-sonic ammunition
and could not notice any difference.
“I recently took
a first-time
shooter to the
range who was
extremely
nervous and
sensitive to the
sound firearms
make...The sup-
pressed .22 was a
game changer in
her instruction.”
RIMFIRES
Hands-On Time
I recently took a first-time shooter to the
range who was extremely nervous and
sensitive to the sound firearms make,
especially the concussive effect of the
muzzle blast going past you with center-
fire handguns and rifles. To a long-time
shooter, this muzzle blast is unnoticeable
unless you are shooting a cannon, but
some are more sensitive than others.
Despite her trepidation she was very
comfortable with the suppressed P22.
With very little instruction she was easily
able to keep shots on target and gained
confidence and skill. This was someone
who, when I had previously brought her
to the range, had decided she didn’t want
to try it. The suppressed .22 was a game
changer in her instruction.
In general, suppressors offer a lot of
benefits. In low light they preserve night
vision by eliminating muzzle flash. The
baffles are temporarily trapping the es-
caping gasses, and any unburned powder
that would otherwise exit the barrel and
create a muzzle flash is also trapped and
burned inside the baffles. These baffles
also act as a sort of muzzle brake helping
to reduce recoil, and the suppressor itself
can improve barrel harmonics, increas-
ing accuracy.
The basic suppressor is not exactly
new technology. It was originally invented
and marketed in 1902 by Hiram Percy
Maxim, whose father invented the Maxim
Machine Gun. It basically works like a
muffler on a car, and even President
Theodore Roosevelt used a suppressed
Model 1894 lever action .30-30 rifle to
keep pests out of his backyard without
bothering his neighbors.
To get one you will need to fill out a bit
of paperwork, as suppressors are regu-
lated under the National Firearms Act of
1934. Thirty-nine states currently allow
the private ownership of suppressors,
and many of them also allow their use
for hunting. Once you get Uncle Sam’s
OK, make sure to keep a copy of the tax
stamp with you whenever you take your
suppressor out to shoot so you can prove
it is legally registered.
There are a lot of quality .22LR sup-
pressors available. The commonality of Aside from
the threads on the barrels allow the same dampening the
suppressor to be used on a variety of rim- pistol’s sound
fire pistols and rifles, and most rimfire signature, a
suppressors will work with .22LR, .17 suppressor adds
HMR and .22 Magnum cartridges. AAC significantly
to the pistol’s
maintains a very informative website on
overall length,
suppressors that they call their Silencer absorbing recoil
University, which provides instruction and making it a
and a quiz that walks you through all the useful tool for
details. To learn more please visit www. teaching muzzle
aaccanu.com or call 770-925-9988. awareness.

COMBAT TEST
Harnessing
the long-range
power of the
10mm cartridge
KIM
and housing it
in the endur-
ingly popular
1911 platform,
updated with an
integral acces-
sory rail,
Kimber’s
8.7-inch-long-
overall TLE/
RL II delivers
top-notch,
dependable
performance.
The 1911 pistol has long been a steady favorite of tactical

operators. But, in recent years, it’s also surged in popular-
ity among civilians. Production pistols are better made now
than ever before, with features to meet most any need.
Improvements in machining and manufacture has made them
more reliable and accurate. While well-built 1911 pistols are
not cheap, they are more affordable today than in years past.
My first 1911 pistol, purchased over 20 years ago, cost close
to $1,500 after minimal upgrades. Today that gets you an
excellent factory 1911 with features not even available in
the 1990s.
As the use of weapon-mounted lights continues to grow, 1911
manufacturers have worked hard to meet demand. Mounting
a light to a home-defense pistol is an excellent idea, allowing
you to clearly identify the threat. For those carrying on duty or
in a tactical rig, they are almost a necessity. Tactical lights are
smaller, more powerful and more rugged, making them well
suited to use in any environment. Once a rarity, duty pistols with
lights are now almost the norm.
One of the most popular 1911 pistols designed to meet the
need for light and laser attachment is the Kimber TLE/RL II. The
Custom TLE (Tactical Law Enforcement) was designed with in-
put from the Los Angeles Police Department’s SWAT team, and

MBER TLE
RL II
SWAT-born 1911
brings tactical
touches to the
powerhouse
10mm platform.
BY DAVE BAHDE
PHOTOS BY STEVE WOODS
they carry it today in .45 ACP. It is simple, rugged and includes of which served me well for years. Other pistols were available,
a rail for the addition of a tactical light. Although designed by a but none so well equipped at a reasonable price. The only thing
SWAT team, it has gained traction among civilian 1911 shooters. missing for me was a rail, and the TLE/RL II has taken care of
With a retail price of $1,178 for the .45 and $1,252 for the 10mm, that.
it is one of the most affordable tactical 1911 pistols on the This RL II starts with a steel frame with a high cut front strap
market, putting it within reach of many potential users. Once and 30-lpi checkering. The trigger is an aluminum, match-
only available in .45 ACP, the 10mm option adds an entirely new grade, standard-length trigger set to 4.5 pounds. As a Custom II
dimension to this pistol. pistol, it uses a firing-pin safety. Activated using the grip safety,
Much like the 1911 pistol, the 10mm cartridge is experienc- it meets many requirements set forth by police agencies and
ing a resurgence. It has a number of advantages and continues even a few states. Among some 1911 users, this always lights a
to stick around, slowly winning over new shooters. It remains fire, but for me it’s never been an issue. I’ve owned at least half-
my favorite combat pistol cartridge—two of my most well-used a-dozen Kimbers with firing-pin safeties over the years, and
carry pistols are chambered in 10mm. Loaded properly, it pen- none has ever failed. It does allow for a crisp trigger though,
etrates deeply, yet it expands quickly and efficiently in soft tis- and most people never even notice that it’s there. Checkering is
sue. Recoil is manageable in most platforms while maintaining used on the mainspring housing, allowing for a solid grip. The
excellent reliability. Accuracy with the 10mm can be astounding. mag well is beveled for positive magazine changes. A short rail
It remains one of the flattest shooting pistol cartridges you can is included to allow for tactical lights or other devices. An ex-
carry, providing for usable accuracy in a pistol out to 100 yards. tended grip safety ensures a high grip, and black synthetic grips
round out the lower receiver.
GUN DETAILS A fully supported stainless steel, match-grade barrel is fitted
Kimber has been one of the industry’s most consistent sup- to the steel slide. Cocking serrations are situated at the front
porters of the 10mm cartridge. When interest waned with some and back. The full-length guide rod maintains solid accuracy,
gun makers, you could still get a Kimber Eclipse in 10mm, one while the stainless steel bushing ensures reliability. Sighting

>> KIMBER TLE/RL II
The Kimber TLE/RL II 10mm

features double diamond-pattern
synthetic grips and sports finely
cut checkering on the front strap
for an enhanced grip.
is accom- II most closely resemble factory Colt

plished using Custom Delta Elite magazines.
Meprolight Holding eight rounds, they use a
three-dot night rounded follower. Over the years,
sights with a they’ve proven themselves to
no-snag rear. be very reliable, as they were
Two seven-round while testing the Kimber.
Kimber flush-fit Both the Kimber-supplied
magazines are magazines and several of
provided and are my Colt factory maga-
shipped in a nice zines worked flawlessly.
hard case. Another fantastic maga-
I tested the gun zine is Tripp Research’s
using my SureFire 10mm magazine. Built from the
X300 with a DG1 switch. ground up as a nine-round magazine, it
Having used the light is one of the best-made magazines avail-
for years, I think it’s one of the best pistol able. Like the Colt and Kimber mags,
lights on the market. I’m still getting they worked great in the TLE/RL II with
used to the DG1 switch, but it shows all of the ammunition tested. Still, a few
great promise. Allowing for the use of other magazines experienced glitches,
the light with a squeeze of the grip, it and with decades of time behind 10mm
makes it simple and usable with either 1911 pistols, I recommend testing your
hand. While testing, I also wore my VTAC pistol using your self-defense round with
Battle Belt. The whole point of the rail is any magazine you intend to carry. Brand
to attach a light or laser, and this setup name and cost are not always relevant:
nicely accommodates accessorized pis- Some pistols just won’t run every time
tols. Finally, I used my JM Custom Kydex with some magazines. In this case,
concealment holster, which is designed the Kimber TLE/RL II ran the supplied
for railed pistols without the light. magazines flawlessly with every type of
ammunition tested.
RANGE TIME Accuracy with with this cartridge can
If there is a weak point in the 10mm 1911 be amazing, even out of factory pistols.
pistol, it is the magazine. Each pistol This pistol was no exception, with its best
seems to favor different magazines. group measuring 1.26 inches at 25 yards
Those supplied with the Kimber TLE/RL using the Underwood 180-grain Speer
Bonded JHP. This was no Ransom Rest,
just my wrists resting on a sandbag. Not
sure a pistol gets any more accurate.
Everything shot within 2 inches at 25
yards, with most in the 1.5-inch range.
One of the 10mm’s advantages is its
DAVID BAHDE PH OTO
flat shooting characteristics. Shooting

at 50 yards, you need only hold a bit high
and it still hits in the center. Using some
HSM 180-grain Gold Dot, hits on a 6-inch
round target at 50 yards were regular.
Moving back to 100 yards using a small
silhouette target yielded similar results.
Just for kicks, two magazines were fired
The author tested the Kimber with

SureFire’s X300 light and was happy
with its performance and handling.

SPECIFICATIONS
KIMBER TLE/RL II
Caliber 10mm
Barrel 5 inches
Weight 39 ounces
Grips Synthetic
Sights Meprolight three-dot
Action Semi-auto
Finish Matte black
Capacity 8+1
MSRP $1,252
The TLE/RL II’s extended beavertail
from off-hand on a typical IPSC silhou- grip safety cups the Commander-style
ette steel target from 100 yards. With 12 hammer to help prevent “hammer bite”
on the web of the shooting hand.
out of 16 hits on the steel, it proved to
be about as accurate as you can make
a pistol at 100 yards while keeping it be pulled, the RL II just kept running. dots if it sticks around.
combat reliable. Over the course of a very hot day and a While most of the testing was done
Heating things up, this pistol never few hundred rounds, it never malfunc- using my older SureFire X300, I used
missed a beat. Most rapid fire was ac- tioned with the Tripp magazines. It was a Streamlight TLR-1 HL as well. Both
complished using Federal 180-grain FMJ soft shooting, accurate, reliable and well worked fine, but the HL requires a bit of
or Blazer 200-grain TMJ ammunition. balanced. The front sight was easy to work on the holster. The same is true
Pretty much as fast as the trigger could pick up, although the rear will lose its with the newer SureFire X300 U, as the
KIMBER TLE/RL II
The integral strip of Picatinny rail

on the dustcover allows users to
easily attach accessories. Note the
pistol’s full-length guide rod.
bezel is just a bit larger. Having seen

years of hard use, my Safariland holster
had already been altered to fit, but
just be aware that if you move to these
higher-intensity lights that the difference
can be extremely noticeable in regards to
performance.
PERFORMANCE
KIMBER TLE/RL II 10mm

CorBon 135 Pow’R Ball 1,472 1.75

Hornady 165 FTX 1,222 1.62
HSM 180 Gold Dot 1,225 1.57
Underwood 180 Sp. Bonded 1,247 1.26
Winchester 175 Silvertip 1,225 1.58
PER SECOND (FPS) BY CHRONOGRAPH, AND ACCURACY IN
INCHES FOR BEST FIVE-SHOT GROUPS AT 15 YARDS.
BOTTOM LINE
Given my affinity for the 10mm round,
this was a fun test. With no railed 10mm
1911 in my safe, the test took on a dif-
ferent tone. If it worked, my plan was to
keep it, and sure enough it worked great.
It was reliable, accurate and comfort-
able to shoot. It fit nicely in both my
concealed carry and duty holsters. While
not feature rich, it has what most users
will ever need. Aside from some small
alterations, it will remain as tested when
it finally lands in my safe. With an MSRP
of $1,252, it is affordable by quality 1911
standards, and it worked right out of the
box. Kimber has already had great suc-
cess with the TLE/RL II line in .45 ACP,
but adding the 10mm just opens it up to
a larger market. If you are looking for
a quality 1911 in 10mm with a rail, this
should be one of the first you look at For
more information, visit kimberamerica.
com or call 888-243-4522.

COMBAT TEST
PPQ M2 5-INCH
Self-defense
9mm goes long,
boasting Government-model
dimensions and top-gun level performance!
BY DENNIS ADLER PHOTOS BY STEVE WOODS

Walther has taken its well-regarded PPQ M2
semi-auto pistol and elongated it, extending the
barrel length to 5 inches to wring maximum per-
formance from the gun’s 15+1 9mm payload. The
PPQ M2 5-inch, also available in .40 S&W, features
ambidextrous, elongated slide releases and a new
frame-mounted magazine release button.
Almost everyone who has carried a Government model has Walther’s polymer-framed P99-based semi-autos, the PPQ M2
dealt with the weight of the gun (36 to 39 ounces on aver- 5-inch, by virtue of its 1-inch-longer barrel and slide, puts it
age), which, over more than a century, has changed very into a category of handguns generally served by Colt and other
little regardless of caliber (.45 ACP, .38 Super, 9mm, 10mm 1911-style pistols, as well a handful of 5-inch-barreled tacti-
and .22 LR). The advantages of a full-sized, 5-inch-barreled, cal semi-autos and sporting models, including the polymer-
semi-automatic pistol have also changed little in the last 100 framed Glock 34 and 35. It does not, however, fall into the
years—the longer sight radius, excellent balance in the hand, category normally associated with Walther’s polymer-framed
improved accuracy (with target sights) and reliability. These 9mm semi-autos. For example, the longer 8-inch slide on the
are qualities that have not only made the 1911 the world PPQ M2 5-inch is ported with six heat-dissipating vents. It
standard, but also perpetuated its design into the 21st century. has easy-to-operate, elongated, ambidextrous slide releases,
What, you might ask, has this to do with Walther’s latest 9mm? adjustable white-dot target sights and a large, round, button-
In the case of the PPQ M2 5-inch, the answer is everything. style magazine release. The magazine release is brand new.
(Previous polymer-framed Walthers, including the PPQ, have
GUN DETAILS utilized the ambidextrous, triggerguard-mounted magazine
For the legendary German arms-maker, this is not a typical release first introduced on the P99.) It is a noteworthy change
handgun, not even by the standards of the company’s PPQ to the gun’s fundamental design (thus the M2 designation).
design, introduced in 2011. The very latest development of Unfortunately, while the new button-style release is reversible

>> WALTHER PPQ M2 5-INCH
for left-handed
On the front end of the PPQ’s 8-inch
shooters, it
slide are serrations for easier slide
manipulation. Note the integrated rail.
is not truly
ambidextrous
like the original
triggerguard paddle
release. According to
Walther research, consumers
prefer a traditional grip-mounted
magazine release. For
many who have previ-
ously owned and carried
P99 models and P99
variations like the 2011
PPQ (M1), it seems like a
step backwards.
Differing opinions
aside, the new, large
button release is a
well-thought-out design, set
beside a deeply relieved surface that
makes accessing the release easy and
above a ledge that prevents inadvertent
activation. It is also easy to operate,
with only modest effort required by the
strong-hand thumb. Were it ambidex-
trous, instead of reversible, it would be
better. But for those more familiar with
Government-sized pistols, the tradi-
tional magazine release may actually be
an asset.

SPECIFICATIONS
WALTHER PPQ M2
Caliber 9mm
Barrel 5 inches
Weight 26 ounces (empty)
Grips Polymer
Sights Front blade, adjustable rear
Action SA
Finish Matte black
Capacity 15+1
MSRP $749
The striker-fired PPQ M2 utilizes a

traditional short-recoil, locked-breech
design, incorporating a modified
Browning locking system that has the
barrel engaging the slide with a single,
large lug. The principal difference be-
tween previous Walther single-action/
double-action (SA/DA) and double-
action-only (DAO) models and the PPQ
series is the latter’s use of a Glock-type
safety incorporated into the trigger
mechanism. Walther calls their varia-
tion the “Quick Defense” trigger system,
which was first seen on the P99 QA.
While most striker-fired semi-
automatics using this type of trigger
safety are designated as DAO (such as
Glocks), in practice they all function as
SAs. Once the trigger is pulled, it will
not reset unless the gun discharges and
the slide cycles through its operation
to reset the trigger and partially pre-
tension the striker. A true striker-fired
DAO or SA/DA (like the Walther P99) will
allow the trigger to repeatedly operate
without either prerequisite. Thus, the
PPQ M2 is technically an SA.
Walther’s implementation in the
PPQ M2 of the “Quick Defense” trigger
also does away with the P99’s decock-
ing system, which allowed striker-fired
Walther models to be decocked with
a chambered round and thus carried
in a “safe” condition. Walther literally
instituted this design in the 1930s with
the first hammer-fired 9mm pistol to
feature a decocking lever, the P.38.
However, unlike the P.38, the P99 and
all subsequent models based on its
design are striker-fired, and once de-
cocked the first shot must be fired DA.
(One can also pull the slide slightly to
the rear and reset the striker. This also
applies to the new PPQ series.)
A primary feature of the SA/DA
or DAO design, however, is second-

PERFORMANCE
WALTHER PPQ M2 9mm

Federal Premium 1,140 1.93
Hydra-Shok 124 JHP
Hornady Critical 1,210 1.93
Defense 115 FTX
Winchester 1,215 2.25
115 FMJ
BULLET WEIGHT MEASURED IN GRAINS, VELOCITY IN FEET-
PER-SECOND (FPS) BY CHRONOGRAPH AND ACCURACY IN
At 25 yards, the long-barreled

PPQ M2 delivered a five-shot group
of 1.93 inches with the Hornady
115-grain FTX—a result matched
by the Federal 124-grain JHP.
strike capability in the event of a failed

cartridge primer. So the trade-off with
Walther’s new “Quick Defense” trigger
comes down to a matter of weighing the
odds that a cartridge primer will fail
and, more to the point, that a second
strike will successfully fire it. The time
it takes to partially cycle the slide to
reset a striker (about 0.5 inches on the
PPQ M2) versus simply pulling the trig-
ger again (on the P99 and PPX) is the
fundamental difference. Ultimately, this
becomes a matter of personal prefer-
ence in gun handling and whether one is
comfortable with a trigger safety versus
a decocker, manual safety or DAO trig-
ger. Given the number of handguns now
using the Glock-type articulated blade
trigger safety, that question seems to
have answered itself.
Ideally suited for target and practical
shooting, the 5-inch PPQ M2 has adjust-
able, low-profile white-dot sights that
are very easy to acquire. The polymer
frame and grip angle are ideal to main-
tain a low bore axis and come with two

The PPQ M2’s longer 8-inch slide
provides an excellent sight
radius. The gun also features an
adjustable white-dot rear and
fixed white-dot front sight.
“The [pistol’s] trigger pull is short...there is

D E N N I S A D L E R P H O TO S
zero overtravel, and reset is very quick.

This is exactly what you want from a striker-fired semi-auto...”

LADIES ONLY
SELF-DEFENSE 101
At Ladies for Liberty, dozens of women
go back to school to train in the lifesaving
arts of handgun self-defense!
BY BETSY BRANTNER SMITH PHOTOS COURTESY HILLSDALE COLLEGE
he event began like a typical
T “girls weekend” of fun—a

welcome reception complete
with a nice glass of wine, ex-
cellent accommodations and
a “get to know you” reception before
dinner. Interspersed with the ladies of
all ages were young college students,
a few husbands, our instructors and
several campus luminaries. Another
Hillsdale College Ladies for Liberty
shooting camp was about to begin.
Hillsdale College is a four-year
liberal arts school located in rural
southern Michigan on 400 acres of
beautifully maintained land. Founded in
1884, Hillsdale is fiercely independent,
The Hillsdale College
accepting no federal or state funding, Ladies for Liberty
and was the second college in the United course saw women of all
States to admit women on par with men. ages and backgrounds
This seemed like a perfect setting to learning and practicing
bring several generations of women the essentials of using
together to learn about firearms and the and carrying a handgun.
empowerment of exercising our Second
Amendment rights.
The first morning of this five-day event “By that first afternoon, women who
began in the classroom with founding
instructor Bonita Fraim talking about had never touched a firearm were
the range bags we’d been issued and
how students could purchase the same proudly wearing one on their hip.
Smith & Wesson M&P handgun that we’d
be using all week. Smith & Wesson was Hillsdale College and Vicki Farnam’s
a major sponsor of the event, providing
range bags, hats, T-shirts and other free staff had set the tone for success.”
goodies for the students.
Bonita then turned the classroom over
to Defense Training International’s (DTI)
Vicki Farnam, our lead firearms instruc- a tough and challenging one, but that we they wanted to learn to protect them-
tor for the week. Vicki is a veteran police would “be rewarded in the end.” Some selves, obtain a concealed-carry permit
and military firearms instructor and of the ladies looked doubtful, others or improve their pistol skills. These
the author of several excellent books, nervous, and still others were eager to women were as diverse as their home-
including Teaching Women to Shoot: A get to it. towns; they were doctors, ranchers,
Law Enforcement Instructor’s Guide. She Most of the students had little or horsewomen, teachers, tennis players,
brought with her an eclectic and dynamic no experience with firearms. As we homemakers and more. They told amus-
group of three additional female instruc- went around the room and introduced ing stories and shared unusual life expe-
tors, including a cop, an engineer and ourselves, some stated they just wanted riences. They were unabashedly patriotic
her daughter, Wendi, a rancher from to learn more about guns, get over their and incredibly eager to learn, and Vicki
Wyoming. In her familiar no-nonsense fear of shooting and have fun on the Farnam was ready for the challenge of
tone, Vicki told us that the week would be range with their spouses. Others said training this unusual group.

LADIES ONLY
Classroom Introductions going to be our first priority. It also be- College and Vicki Farnam’s staff had set
Vicki began by outlining some differ- came very clear that we were going to be the tone for success.
ences between the way men and women treated like shooters, not “ladies.” The On the final day of shooting Vicki
learn, and then enthusiastically equated DTI staff was strict and straightforward— gathered us around for a few lessons in
learning to shoot with the excitement and “Any bullet that leaves your gun is your self-defense, which she aptly calls “self-
feeling of independence of learning to responsibility,” we were told. We were preservation.” There were many ques-
drive a car as a teenager. She also spoke then taught the basics of handling our tions about carrying a handgun, keeping
of firearms as tools that, like a vehicle, pistols, loading magazines and making one safely at home, and, of course, the
“function only when someone is operat- sure our holsters fit securely on righteous use of deadly force.
ing them.” She passed out hard plastic our pants. By week’s end new shooters were
training guns to each student to help
explain the basics of firearm safety and “I originally agreed to attend Ladies for
function, saying, “words and definitions
are important” when it comes to under- Liberty primarily as an observer, but I
standing the mechanics of a firearm.
Vicki agreed with Bonita’s choice of quickly became a fully vested participant.”
a Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm handgun
for the class. As Bonita explained, “I The staff taught us a thumbs-up way plinking steel targets, delivering accu-
feel that the M&P is the easiest pistol to grip a pistol, they called it “flying rate headshots and engaging in move-
for women beginners to learn on and to thumbs,” which would become one of the and-shoot drills. We cheered each other
manipulate.” Vicki explained the founda- familiar reminders while on the range. on, high-fived and snapped smartphone
tion of the “master grip,” briefly outlined Vicki finds this to be a good grip for pictures. We had become a team, and it
the week’s activities and then told us it small-handed people, especially women. was hard to say goodbye.
was time to board our bus to Hillsdale’s She emphasized that our “grip is the
outdoor pistol range. foundation for your gun’s accuracy.” After Final Thoughts
mastering our grip, we went on to sight I originally agreed to attend the Ladies
At The Range picture, trigger control, reset and much for Liberty camp primarily as an
On our first trip to the range, the women more. Vicki appealed to the women by observer, but I quickly became a fully
chatted nervously. There was some being stern but supportive:“You are mak- vested participant. I learned so much
trepidation about shooting for the first ing the gun move! Make it happen for about myself as a shooter. I broke some
time. When we arrived at the range, each you!” she’d bark. “Stay in the moment, bad habits. I strengthened my stance
student was issued the pistol they would this is a process not an event. This is a and improved my trigger control. The
be using for the week, complete with a skill you will master.” DTI staff were excellent role models for
holster and two additional magazines. By that first afternoon women who had anyone who trains or teaches. For more
Vicki took control of the range, and it was never touched a firearm were proudly information, visit defense-training.com
immediately apparent that safety was wearing one on their hip. Hillsdale or call 970-482-2520.
SMITH & WESSON
M&P9
By Betsy Brantner Smith
here are plenty of reasons why the Smith & Wes- are easy to load
T son M&P9 9mm was the pistol of choice for the
September 2013 Hillsdale College Ladies for Liberty
and the Picatinny
rail under the muz-
PHOTO COURTESY SMITH & WESSON
firearms education and training event in Hillsdale, zle allows the M&P9
Michigan. The M&P9 weighs 24 ounces empty and to be customized with
has ambidextrous controls that make it a good choice lights or lasers. The
for left-handed shooters. It has an integrated trigger recoil is very manageable, which
safety, changeable backstraps to accommodate virtu- encourages students to put a larger number of
ally any hand size, and a loaded-chamber indicator. rounds through the gun as well as practice
But, in my opinion, what makes this pistol ideal for tactical maneuvers such as moving and shooting.
new shooters is the ergonomics. This gun looks great, I carried the compact version of the M&P9 for
with consistently rounded edges allowing for a natu- the last several years of my law enforcement
ral, easy grip. It has a large beavertail to protect the career, and I found it be the most enjoyable duty
shooter’s hand from those skin bites that often plague gun I’ve ever owned. The experts at Hillsdale Col-
inexperienced operators. The natural grip angle lege got it 100-percent right in selecting the M&P9
helps reduce muscle fatigue, and the rifling on the for their groundbreaking Ladies for Liberty event.
rear end of the slide is somewhat “tacky” providing For more information on the M&P9, visit smith-
extra traction when racking the slide. The magazines wesson.com or call 800-331-0852.

YOU CAN CARRY
PEACE OF MIND
NO M AT T E R
W H A T ’ S O N H I S.
The TAC-XPD™ Defense Bullet from Barnes, the optimized solution for carry
or home defense. Engineered to deliver top performance in life-threatening
situations. Techni-Crom™ plated cases and coated, all-copper bullets
SURGXFHVPRRWKUHOLDEOHðULQJZLWKYLUWXDOO\QRPX]]OHñDVK
Available in 380 Auto, 9mm Luger,

40 S&W and 45 Auto.
^^ÎHYULZI\SSL[ZJVT

COMBAT TEST
All-steel big bore bred for reliability and

delivering plenty of knockdown power!
BY WILLIAM BELL PHOTOS BY STEVE WOODS
I continue to be amazed by the popularity of the 1911 pistol. times past would only be found on a customized 1911. On top of
Even with 100-plus years of service, it just keeps on keeping the slide, a Novak-type rear sight is mounted in a dovetail. On
on, with new models being introduced on a continuous basis. my hard-chrome sample pistol, the rear sight is blue, and the
One of the latest is from Eagle Imports (the same folks that backside facing the shooter is finely serrated to reduce glare.
bring you the Bersa handgun line), the MAC 1911 Bobcut. It’s fully adjustable for windage and elevation. The red fiber-
Like a number of other reasonably priced 1911s on today’s optic front sight is also attached via a dovetail cut in the slide.
market, the Bobcut hails from Metro Arms Corporation The ejection port is lowered and flared to reduce brass
(MAC) in the Philippines. A former competitive shooter deformation, and there are 10 well-defined serrations on the
named Hector Rodriguez developed the MAC 1911 line, and rear of the slide. If you retract the slide and look inside, you’ll
these products are well known worldwide for their quality, note the barrel is throated, and the surrounding area is expertly
performance and accuracy. polished for reliable operation. Both sides of the slide have the
MAC emblem near the rear, while the left side of the slide is
GUN DETAILS laser-cut with the MAC 1911 and Bobcut logo. The extractor
The Bobcut is a Commander-sized 1911 with a 4.25-inch barrel. and firing-pin retention plate are blued and give a nice contrast
It gets its name from the diagonal cut on the backstrap at the to the chrome-matte finish. The hammer is a sketelonized,
bottom of the grip frame. This cut gives the pistol a round-butt Commander-style version, and the Bobcut is equipped with a
profile that aids in concealability. Both the frame and hammer- full-length guide rod for the recoil spring.
forged slide are made from 4140 steel, which contributes to its Moving down to the frame, at the rear is an extended, ambi-
empty weight of 34.58 ounces. Two finish options are available, dextrous manual safety, and the grip safety is enhanced type
deep blue or hard chrome, and both are polished on the “flats” with an extended beavertail. The slide release is strictly GI,
and have a sandblasted matte finish on the top of the slide and but it looks to me like the magazine release button is slightly
other areas of the bottom and sides. Custom hardwood grips elongated, as it has a higher profile than the one on my stock
features a fish-scale pattern, and the MAC emblem comes 1911A1. The combat trigger is long and has three holes for
standard. The Bobcut is chambered for the .45 ACP cartridge weight reduction; it is also adjustable for overtravel. The trigger
and has an 8+1 capacity with the factory-supplied magazine. on my test piece had a tiny amount of take-up before break-
This pistol is just chock full of standard features that in ing cleanly at 4 pounds. Thank goodness there was no squared

The Metro Arms Corporation Bobcut
1911 .45 ACP combines reasonable
pricing with practical, top-notch-quality
upgrades and enhancements.
“A CLOSE INSPECTION
OF THE EXTERIOR OF
THE MAC 1911 BOBCUT
REVEALED EXCELLENT
ATTENTION TO THE
FINISH AND THE
WOOD-TO-METAL FIT
ON THE GRIPS.”
>> MAC 1911 BOB
BOBCUT
BCU
BCU
UT
T
triggerguard or Picatinny rail to spoil
the looks of this classically simple,
handsome handgun. Another nice and
practical touch was the stippling on
the front and backstraps of the grip
frame—what I’d describe as an overlap-
ping dish pattern that allowed me to
effectively keep a good hold on the MAC
1911 Bobcut during rapid-fire shooting
exercises. The stippling stops just above
the “Bob cut” on the mainspring hous-
ing, so as not to abrade the palm.
“I WAS VERY
IMPRESSED WITH
THE BOBCUT’S
HANDLING
CHARACTERISTICS.
THE STIPPLING
ON THE GRIPS
HELPED ME MAIN-
TAIN CONTROL
WILLIAM BELL PHOTO

The authororr rran
an ttheeMMACACCBBobcut
o cu
ob c t th
through
hro
roug
ugh
some
som
some rapi
rapid-fire
id-f
id -fir
ire
e drills
dril
dr ills
ls for
or function
fun
functio
ion and
and
accuracy tes
ttesting
with its sol
esti
es
solid,
olid
lid
ting
ng a
i , no
no-f
and
n w
no-fault
-fau
ault
was
a iimpressed
as
lt p
m ress
mp ssed
performance.
erfo
er orm
rman
ance
d
ce. DURING RAPID-
FIRE SHOOTING.”
My test Bobcut came in a plastic gun
case that has inlets on the inside for the
pistol and spare magazines, as well as
a compartment for the owner’s manual.
One 8-round magazine with a blued fin-
ish comes standard. The magazine has
witness holes on both sides and a thick
polymer baseplate to assist in proper
seating during a fast combat reload. A
close inspection of the exterior of the
MAC 1911 Bobcut revealed excellent
attention to both the finish and the wood-
to-metal fit on the grips. My test gun had
about a pint of oil in and on it, so it had
to be thoroughly cleaned out; you might
have to do the same if you get something
other than the display model from your
dealer. It disassembles like any 1911 with
a guide rod, so see your owner’s manual
for further details on that.
As this was to be a practical test of the
MAC 1911 Bobcut, I needed some leath-
er, and at this point I recalled being sent
The MAC Bobcut 1911 features a 4.25- a 1911 holster by Thomas Tedder, presi-
inch barrel and a full-length guide rod. dent of Old Faithful Holsters. This is a
Note the fiber-optic front sight. small, family-owned business that caters
to those wanting a holster that combines

SPECIFICATIONS
MAC 1911 BOBCUT

Caliber .45 ACP
Barrel 4.25 inches
Grips Custom hardwood
Sights Fiber-optic front,
Novak-style rear
Action SA
Finish Hard chrome
Capacity 8+1
MSRP $978
The MAC Bobcut 1911 features

an extended beavertail grip safety
with a memory pad and ambidex-
trous manual safeties.
comfort and maximum concealment. To

this end, Tedder has amalgamated qual-
ity, American-made leather with Kydex
to make a rig that looks a little bulky,
but which keeps the sharp edges of the
pistol away from your body and provides
good handgun retention. The outsized
leather apron of the High Rider OWB
holster can be had with clips or slots for
belt attachment. This apron comes up all
the way to just above the top of the slide
and extends out to form to the hip of the
wearer. The more you wear it, the better
it gets. Attached to the apron using hex-
head screws is the Kydex body, which is

>> MAC 1911 BOBCUT
The rear sight assembly features

light-diffusing horizontal grooves on its
rear face for an enhanced sight picture.
molded for the particular pistol. My hol- and is lightweight and low profile. Made
ster came with several lengths of screws of injection-molded, high-density plastic,
to adjust the tension on the handgun. it not only holds the magazine securely,
The holster has a straight up and down but also will not come off the belt when
cant (or lack thereof) that is easily ad- quickly withdrawing said magazine.
justed on the clip version, and I suspect
if you wanted to make some holes in the RANGE TIME
apron you could change the cant on the Next came a visit to my ammo locker
belt-slot model, too. I found that the High for some .45 ACP test loads. As this is a
Rider held the handgun very close to the compact .45, I wanted to do most of my
body and did not allow the pistol to print shooting with some favorite 230-grain
under a light jacket or a loose-fitting, loads. Starting off would be Black Hills’
un-tucked Hawaiian shirt. To carry an new factory cartridges loaded with XTP
extra magazine—which one should al- jacketed-hollow-point (JHP) bullets.
ways do—I utilized an open pouch with a Next up was the CorBon +P load that had
paddle back for quick on/off applications gaping “flying ashtray”-type JHP bullets.
from Fobus Holsters. The model 3901-45 For something a bit lighter in weight, I
is made for 1911 single-stack magazines selected some Federal Personal Defense
cartridges that have a classic 185-grain
PERFORMANCE JHP. These would be chronographed for
velocity measurements and then fired
MAC 1911 BOBCUT .45 ACP
from the bench at a distance of 25 yards
LOAD VELOCITY ACCURACY to evaluate the practical accuracy poten-
Black Hills 230 JHP 843 3.14 tial of the MAC 1911 Bobcut.
One of my favorite Dirty Harry quotes
CorBon 230 JHP +P 921 3.57
is, “A man has to know his limitations,”
Federal 185 JHP 933 3.82 and as I approach my sixth decade on
BULLET WEIGHT MEASURED IN GRAINS, VELOCITY IN FEET this planet, I know I’m not the shot I
PER SECOND (FPS) BY CHRONOGRAPH, AND ACCURACY IN used to be. So, at 25 yards, I use a big-
INCHES FOR BEST FIVE-SHOT GROUPS AT 25 YARDS. CONTINUED ON PAGE 92

COMBAT TEST
SMITH & WESSON
M686
SSR
Enhanced .357
self-defender delivers
Performance
Center superiority
right out of
the box!
BY
DR. MARTIN D. TOPPER
PHOTOS BY
STEVE WOODS
Service revolvers were invented 177 revolvers. Pro Series guns blend high- That’s the average cost of about 150
years ago, but for many shooters they tech production line manufacturing with rounds of premium jacketed hollow-point
are still viable choices for self-defense. custom features that were only available (JHP) ammunition.
The secret to the wheelgun’s longevity previously through the S&W Performance
lies in its ease of use and in the fact that Center. Even though the SSR is made GUN DETAILS
manufacturers are continually updat- on the regular production line, it has When the SSR arrived at the Florida Gun
ing it. Smith & Wesson is well known for chamfered charge holes, a custom 4-inch Exchange, everyone who looked at it and
producing state-of-the-art revolvers, and barrel with a recessed precision crown, picked it up was impressed by its good
one of the latest from S&W is the M686 a bossed mainspring and an ergonomic looks. The custom 4-inch barrel is a real
Pro Series .357 Magnum Stock Service wood grip that is designed to give a high eye-catcher, and so are the wood grips.
Revolver (SSR). hand hold for better recoil control. All of They also liked the gun’s grip-heavy bal-
The SSR is more than just another this comes at a cost of only $160 more ance. This makes the SSR quick to bring
update. It sets a new standard for service than the standard 4-inch, six-shot M686. on target when drawn from a holster, and

The stainless steel M686 SSR, customized
by the Smith & Wesson Performance Center,
offers shooters six rounds of .357/.38
firepower. Highly accurate and built for
tough duty, the M686 SSR also sports a
smooth, handsome, satin finish.
it also makes it swing with little effort. on the extrac-

A smooth, effortless swing is important tor were properly
when engaging multiple targets. conformed and clean
There were no obvious defects in work- edged. In addition, the
manship on the exterior of the SSR, so I alignment of the cylinder crane
took it home and gave it a detailed bench was straight, with no gap between
examination. A close examination for tool the crane and frame, and the bore was
marks and conformity indicated that all bright with clean-cut rifling. The cylinder/
surfaces were thoroughly finished, mark- barrel gap measured 0.006-inches on all
ings were crisp and evenly impressed, chambers.
and there were no uneven lines or sharp Given the gun’s good fit and finish, it
edges. Chambers were evenly chamfered, was no surprise that it functioned well.
the bolt notches were square, and facets Timing was dead-on, and the bolt locked
>> SMITH & WESSON M686 SSR
on all chambers well before the hammer
was at full-cock. The double-action (DA)
and single-action (SA) trigger pulls were
very smooth. There was no increase in
effort (i.e., stacking) as the trigger was
pulled to the rear. The DA trigger pull
was consistently 10 pounds to 10.5
pounds, and SA pull was 3.5 pounds to
4 pounds. The sear broke cleanly with
about 0.125 inches of overtravel. The
action was very good for a stock revolver,
and at least some of this fine performance
can be attributed to the use of a bossed
mainspring.
The SSR came with an extra set of
Hogue black rubber Monogrips, which
were installed during the bench examina-
“The SSR proves tion. The wood grips were nicely made,
but too small for my extra-large hands.
that rumors of the Therefore, all shooting was done with the
Hogue grips.
service revolver’s
D R . M A RT I N D . TO P P E R P H O TO
RANGE TIME
demise are indeed The SSR was fired for accuracy and
velocity at the Volusia County Gun &
Hunt Club. Tactical drills were run at the
premature.” Volusia Club, and the SSR was also used

to fire the Army L Course at the Flagler
Gun & Archery Club during a weekly
“bullseye” match.

The recessed crown at the muzzle
protects the rifling from damage.
Note the angled underlug.
Accuracy and velocity tests were con-

ducted with five loads that were gracious-
ly provided by their manufacturers. These
included Black Hills’ .38 Special 148-grain
wadcutter (WC), HPR’s .38 Special
158-grain XTP HP, Winchester’s 125-grain
PDX1 .357 Magnum, Remington’s
125-grain .357 Magnum SJHP and
CorBon’s 140-grain .357 Magnum JHP.
Accuracy tests were performed at 25
yards. An MTM front sight rifle rest was
used to support the gun, and a Leupold
Kenai spotting scope was used to check
groups. Averages for three 5-shot groups
ranged from 2.4 inches with the Black
Hills .38 Special 148-grain wadcut-
SPECIFICATIONS
SMITH & WESSON M686 SSR

Caliber .38 Special, .357 Magnum
Barrel 4 inches
Grips Wood
Sights Adjustable rear,
interchangeable front
Action SA/DA
Finish Satin stainless
Capacity 6
MSRP $969

“The custom
features of the
SSR provide
advanced han-
dling qualities
that maximize
the ‘Jack of All
Trades’ nature
of revolvers...”
ters to 4.07 inches with Winchester’s
125-grain PDX1 .357 Magnum load. The
best single group, fired with the Black
Hills wadcutters, measured 1.64 inches.
The 125-grain magnum loads printed
about 1.5 inches lower than the CorBon
140-grain magnum load, and about 2.5
inches lower than the 148-grain and
158-grain .38 Special loads. Since the
140-grain loads were dead-on, I chose not
to change the sights. The sights needed
no adjustment prior to testing. The SSR
printed dead-on from the factory.
Velocity tests were conducted using
a Pact 1XP chronograph. Five shots of
each load were measured at a distance
of 15 inches from the muzzle. The fastest
load was Remington’s 125-grain .357
PERFORMANCE

.38 Special
Black Hills 148 SW 700 1.64

High Precision Range 712 2.81
158 XTP HP
.357 Magnum
CorBon 140 JHP 1,237 4.07

Remington 125 SJHP 1,472 3.14
Winchester 125 1,297 3.52
PDX1 BJHP

The M686 SSR has a black, fully adjust-
able rear sight assembly for precision
shooting as well as an exposed hammer.
Magnum SJHP; it averaged 1,472 feet per

second (fps). The latest version of Sierra’s
Infinity Ballistic software indicates that
this velocity generates 601 foot-pounds of
muzzle energy. The Remington 125-grain
SJHP magnum load isn’t new, and it’s not
bonded, but it’s been a very consistent
performer over the past 30 years. The
slowest load was Black Hills’ 148-grain
wadcutter target load. All of the other
loads produced velocities that were close
to factory ballistics.
The Army L bullseye match was
fired with Winchester’s 125-grain PDX1
Magnums. Tactical drills were fired with
Remington’s .38 Special 130-grain FMJ
load and the CorBon and Remington .357
Magnum loads. There were no misfires
or mechanical problems during the drills
or any other live fire tests. The SSR easily
digested every load it was fed.
During the bullseye match, I shot the
SSR one-handed for the 25-yard slow fire,
and two-handed for the 25-yard timed fire
and 15-yard rapid-fire stages. Slow fire
was shot in the SA mode, and the other
two stages were fired DA. All shots were
on target during each stage, and the best
score was a 93-5X during the 15-yard,
rapid-fire stage. The SSR’s 38-ounce
weight handled recoil very well, and the
Hogue grips provided for a very solid
purchase on the gun.
Two tactical drills were conducted. I

HANDGUN HIDE
EVERYDAY
CONCEALMENT
OPTIONS
Keep your guns deep under cover
anytime, anywhere! BY ZACK CARLSON
he popularity of slim, single- a tradeoff for the advantages it offers. It people who need to slip the holster on
T stack, concealed-carry pistols

is unmistakable. They are
thin and comfortable to
carry. Many concealed-carry
proponents are jumping on the slim gun
bandwagon because it encourages daily
carry. With a slim gun, you can gener-
can be a bit hotter to wear compared to
a normal holster, too.
The carry method I felt most in need
of was a good active carry. It was by
some coincidence that, when I was real-
ly thinking about how to solve my carry
problems when trying to jog, I saw an
and off multiple times a day. The holster
is very thin and light compared to a
leather holster. It provides great reten-
tion, is sweat proof and stays open while
the pistol is drawn, allowing for easy
re-holstering.
Before discovering the PJ holster, I
ally just slip it into your daily attire with- email announcing the CrossBreed Belly had a standard leather IWB holster. It
out much effort. While there are many Band. It seemed like the perfect solu- served me well for a couple years after
different options available, each dress tion for me. My biggest issue was, when buying my first Kahr, but after a while
situation may require a different holster. trying to exercise, it is not ideal to wear the metal clip got bent up to the point
Let’s look at a few of them. pants just to wear a belt. Pocket car- of being an issue. The problem was the
rying in athletic shorts also left much clip flared out at the bottom, and many
Belly Band to be desired. The weight of the pistol times while sitting it would catch the
The beauty of a slim carry gun is you jostling around in large pockets, being arms of the chair and bend. The simple,
can be active! The CrossBreed Modular supported only by an elastic waist and sleek clip design that PJ Holsters em-
Belly Band is a relatively new holster string, was very frustrating. The belly ploy eliminated this problem. When I get
that fills a specific need. It features band solves those problems by keeping ready to put on the holster, I simply in-
an elastic band with a Kydex holster the gun up close to your core. The gun sert the muzzle end into the waistband
attached via Velcro. The elastic band doesn’t have the chance to flop around and use my fingertips to curl the clip
also features two sewn-in pockets for or get pulled down by an uncooperative outward while pushing the holster into
magazines and a larger one suitable for waistband. place. Once the holster is fully seated,
handcuffs. CrossBreed provides with I simply squeeze the clip to the belt to
additional purchase an adhesive-backed Standard IWB ensure the lip fully seats onto the belt.
Velcro square that you can attach For standard inside-the-waistband After doing this simple procedure the
anywhere you may want a holster. The (IWB) carry there are many popular holster stays in place all day.
tight-fitting holster is great because the options. PJ Holsters makes a fantastic
weight is supported, and it will not sag line of Kydex holsters for many pistols Hybrid IWB
like a belt holster might. It keeps the and in several different configurations. Another popular IWB holster type is
firearm close to the body and does not The holster shown has slip-over clips the Kydex/leather hybrid. CrossBreed
print as a belt holster could. The draw that do not require you to thread your Holsters manufactures the MiniTuck
stroke is not as fast or efficient, which is belt through to carry. This is a treat for holster specifically for smaller guns.
CrossBreed Modular Belly Band PJ Holsters IWB Holster CrossBreed MiniTuck IWB

SAME SMALL PACKAGE.
SAME BIG PUNCH.
BRAND NEWATTITUDE.
The NEW .380 Mustang.

Improved accuracy. Improved reliability.
More comfortable to shoot.
TheLegend Continues.
HANDGUN HIDE
Ankle Carry
An ankle holster provides a carry
method when no other carry method
is feasible. The main requirements
are that you have pants that are long
enough to conceal the holster and that
the grip of the gun isn’t long enough to
create pant-leg fit issues.
CrossBreed graciously supplied its
small auto ankle holster for this task,
and with it I carried a Kahr CM9 with no
issues. The holster has an adjustable
calf strap affixed with Velcro, which
suspends the main holster via an ad-
justable Velcro strap. The main holster
has another adjustable Velcro strap that
wraps around the ankle. The holster
itself is made of nylon and has Velcro
thumb-break retention.
The weight that a gun-encumbered
ankle holster places on one leg takes
some getting used to, but once your
body adjusts, ankle carry can be a fairly
comfortable mode of concealment.
An ankle is a useful place for concealing
a backup gun. When drawing, be sure to Personalized Carry
lift your pant leg well above the holster. Based on my experience with all of
these different options, I would recom-
It provides all the benefits of the PJ mend the following: For exercising or
holster but includes a leather backing, suit carry, a belly band such as the one
which can enhance comfort. The routine manufactured by CrossBreed may be
for putting on a hybrid holster is a little ideal. If you can’t realistically carry on
more involved compared to the Kydex the belt and think the belly band isn’t
PJ holster, but it is not too bad. I have for you, then ankle carry or pocket carry
found it easier to put on by loosening might be the answer. If you are carrying
the belt and top button of the pants, a very small gun, my preferred carry
then insert the holster where desired method is pocket carry. For just about
and clip both clips around the belt. Then all other situations I think IWB carry is
button the pants, snug the belt and the most versatile and allows for the
insert the pistol into the holster. fastest and most natural draw.
We have focused on slim, single-
Pocket Carry stack semi-automatic handguns, but
Are you stuck in a suit every day? Does most of what has been said can easily
belt carry not appeal to you? If so, a translate to double-stack or larger au-
pocket holster may be an ideal solution tos as well as revolvers. The only carry
for you. Pocket carry is incredibly com- method I would not recommend for a
fortable for most users, however the double-stack gun is pocket carry. The
draw can be slower than other options. thickness creates too many opportu-
The flat profile helps prevent the gun nities for it to print and also creates
from printing. Another advantage for a more difficult draw. Ankle carry is
pocket carry is the ability to inconspicu- debatable, but I think something along
ously grasp the gun in preparation for a the lines of a Glock subcompact would
draw. This is hard to do with just about be acceptable in an ankle rig.
every other method of carry. With all the different carry options
Pocket carry really shines in comfort. available, it is no wonder that single-
The biggest drawback to pocket carry stack carry guns are so popular. Rest
for me is that it sacrifices a pocket that assured, however, that no matter what
I would normally dedicate to my phone, you carry, there’s an everyday carry
as it is recommended that you do not option that’s right for you.
carry anything else in the same pocket
to avoid confusion while drawing. You FOR MORE INFORMATION:
also have to be more selective when CrossBreed Holsters
purchasing pants to ensure they have 888-732-5011; crossbreedholsters.com
an adequate opening to get the pistol in PJ Holsters
and out efficiently. pjholster.com

COMBAT TEST
The Steyr M40-A1

delivers the respected
company’s well-known
quality in a high-
performance .40-cal.
package. With its 12+1
rounds of firepower,
ultra-advanced
ergonomics, wear-
resistant Mannox
finish and integral
rail, the pistol stands
ready for duty.
“I remember when the Steyr

AUG was the bullpup to have due
to its design, and I can see the
M40-A1 pistol filling that same
bill in the handgun arena.”

Steyr
M40-A1 Futuristic .40-cal delivers
unbeatable ergonomics
and 12+1 rounds of
fight-stopping firepower!
BY CHAD THOMPSON
PHOTOS BY STEVE WOODS
R
Recently, I was fortunate enough to be able to receive and for making long guns, and after handling this pistol, I remain
write about a pistol that I had heard about for a while but completely satisfied with its polymer pistol line—as represented
hadn’t had a chance to handle until this opportunity present- by the M40-A1.
ed itself. My editor located a Steyr M-A1 pistol chambered in
.40 S&W (an M40-A1) and asked me if I was interested in doing GUN DETAILS
a piece on the gun. Needless to say, I jumped at the chance, and I got the pistol in and opened the all-black polymer case. Inside
quick as a wink I had one of Steyr’s fine pistols at my doorstep. was the pistol, two magazines and various other items that
One reason I wanted to get my hands on an M-A1 was that it come with the handgun, including the manual, paperwork, two
looks really cool. Another was just personal and professional locks and a couple of keys used to unlock the manual safety
curiosity about Steyr’s take on the polymer-framed pistol craze child lock on the right side of the pistol. I looked at the M40-A1
of the new millennium. Steyr has an exceptional reputation before picking it up and was again impressed with the pistol’s

SPECIFICATIONS
STEYR M40-A1
The trigger features a paddle-style Caliber .40 S&W
safety that helps prevent the pistol
from firing unless the trigger is pulled. Barrel 4 inches
Weight 27 ounces
aesthetics. The thing is just cool to look with a completely steel slide assembly. It Grips Polymer
at. I remember when the Steyr AUG was uses the Browning short-recoil method Sights White-dot trapezoidal
the bullpup to have due to its design, and of operation with what is called a linkless
I can see this pistol filling that same bill design, but it actually does have a partial Action DAO
in the handgun arena. I then picked the link attached to the bottom of the barrel. Finish Mannox
pistol up and began my inspection. It has an external extractor, and the
Capacity 12+1
The Steyr M40-A1 is a striker-fired, grip is one of the most comfortable I’ve
polymer-framed .40-caliber semi-auto handled in a while. The bore axis is nice MSRP $560

A very unique feature of the Steyr
M40-A1 is the trapezoid-style front
sight for fast sight acquisition
and target engagement.
and low, and the pistol points perfectly.

The pistol also has a paddle-type safety
on the front of the trigger, like so many
others of the genre today. The company
calls its finish on these pistols Mannox-
coated. The two included magazines are
constructed of steel, and each holds 12
rounds of .40-caliber ammunition. The
two biggest things that I noticed upon
initial inspection were the sights and the
rail under the slide. The sights are trian-
gular and trapezoidal, and the accessory
rail is a nice added feature.
The slide of the pistol is marked “Steyr
Mannlicher, Austria,” but the frame has
the markings of “SAI, Trussville, AL,”
which is the importer for this pistol. The
last two features I noted and liked were
the loaded-chamber indicator and the
really comfortable finger grooves in the
grip’s front strap. What makes the grip
so great is a combination of things. The
factors are reduced circumference, the
high tang at the top of the backstrap,
the angle of the grip, and the extended
portion at the bottom of the backstrap,
which serves two purposes—it is a small
magazine well, aiding in inserting a new
magazine rapidly, and it has a hole for a
lanyard attachment.
The rounded triggerguard is still large
enough to accommodate someone wear-
ing gloves, and, as I said earlier, the grip
angle is one of the most comfortable I
have felt in a while. Weight is 27 ounces
unloaded, which is mostly due to the
polymer frame and construction.
Taking the gun apart and inspecting it
before shooting revealed no surprises,
save for how simple disassembly was
on this excellent handgun. The pistol
comes apart in a manner similar to other
polymer-framed pistols, but with a few
exceptions. The user first makes sure the
pistol is clear, points it in a safe direction

>> STEYR M40-A1
PERFORMANCE
STEYR M40-A1 .40 S&W

Federal Premium 985 4.50
Eagle 180 FMJ
Speer Lawman 920 3.25
180 FMJ
Winchester 1,046 3.00
165 FMJ
BULLET WEIGHT MEASURED IN GRAINS, VELOCITY IN FEET-
PER-SECOND (FPS) BY CHRONOGRAPH AND ACCURACY IN
The striker-fired pistol does not

feature a hammer. Note the unique
rear sight that mates with the
gun’s trapezoidal front sight.
and dry fires the pistol. Built into the

safety-lock feature on the right side of
the pistol is a spring-loaded takedown
lever that gets pushed in while rotating
the takedown lever toward the floor—
and that’s it! The entire upper now slides
off the front of the gun, and you begin
taking those sub-assemblies apart from
there. The recoil spring and guide rod
are one unit and encapsulated. Then the
forged steel barrel (with partial fixed
lug) comes out of the slide. One feature
that I love is that the takedown lever ro-
tates back up on its own when the slide
is replaced properly and pulled to the
rear. Traditionally, when reassembling
pistols with a rotating takedown lever,
the user is required to put the lever back
in place manually, but that is not the
case here.
Now, the two main things that I was
intrigued about on the Steyr M40-A1 de-
serve a little more detailed description:
These are the trapezoidal sights and
the grip angle. First, these sights are
way different than standard notch and
post, but that is not to say that is a bad
thing—it just took some getting used to.
After a small amount of practice, I found

The author ran the M40-A1 through its paces and was very
impressed with its performance. Recoil was manageable,
and accuracy was quite good.
R I C H A R D M O R R I S P H O TO
RANGE TIME
them to be quite fast and easy to pick
up. Second, this grip design is one of
“When the trigger I reassembled the Steyr and got this
the best I have felt in a polymer-framed reset, this gun really pistol to the range to try it out. For the
(or any other) pistol, period. The grip is accuracy and reliability testing I used
smaller in diameter than those on a lot began to shine! Folks, Winchester 165-grain full metal jacket
of competitors’ pistols, and it has a nice (FMJ), Speer Lawman 180-grain FMJ
high-grip recess in the tang of the pistol there is hardly any and Federal American Eagle 180-grain
that reduces felt recoil much better than
I expected. In short, it made this .40
take-up on the reset, FMJ ammunition. The total round count
was only about 150 rounds of ammo,
caliber pistol shoot like a 9mm. and it is nice and fast!” CONTINUED ON PAGE 97

SIG
COMBAT TEST
Ultra-accurate 5.56mm
megapistol delivers
devastating firepower at
ranges short and long!
BY DOUG LARSON PHOTOS BY STEVE WOODS
There’s just something about AR-style GUN DETAILS

pistols that interests a number of AR-15 Although a 7-inch barrel is offered, the pistol
enthusiasts, and that interest creates received for testing had a 10-inch bar-
enough demand to spur some AR-15 manu- rel. That length is the same as one of Sig’s
facturers to produce them. The enthusiasm short-barreled rifles, but the pistol does not
for the pistols could have something to require ATF approval for civilian ownership.
do with the fact that although they are not The barrel is chrome-lined and makes one
easily carried, aimed or readily concealed, twist in 7 inches, which is good for stabiliz-
they can have a self-defense role in certain ing longer, heavier bullets. It is finished with
special situations. Whatever the reason, manganese phosphate for durability and
the demand has caused Sig Sauer to offer corrosion resistance. Attached at the front is
a pistol version of its highly successful and an A2-style birdcage flash suppressor that
rugged AR-15 rifle. makes a pretty good attempt at reducing the
In 2010, Sig Sauer introduced the SIG516 flash signature, which is difficult with such a
piston-driven AR-15. It was the company’s short barrel.
first AR-style gun and was thoroughly tested A removable flip-up front sight is attached
for dependability. I witnessed an endurance to the short Picatinny rail on top of the gas
demonstration where the gun was buried in block. Inside the gas block is the gas valve
sand, submerged in water and buried at the (or plug) that connects to the piston, which
bottom of a pond in mud before being fired, sends the bolt carrier group to the rear,
all without a single malfunction; no cleaning cycling the action. The plug can be rotated
or lubrication was required to keep it run- to one of four positions and features a round
ning. The pistol is of the same basic design hole into which a cartridge can be inserted to
and pedigree, so it should be a tough gun. help turn it.

G SAUER
The Sig Sauer P516 delivers 30+1 rounds

of 5.56mm power in a compact and
controllable package. Shown equipped
with an Aimpoint Micro H-1 red-dot sight
and Sig Sauer’s optional SB15 Pistol
Stabilizing Brace, which slips over the
buffer tube and offers support for the
pistol by bracing the shooter’s forearm.

>> SIG SAUER P516
When the valve is in the vertical
position, the system is set for normal
operation. Turning it one notch clockwise
(when viewed from the rear) aligns a
slightly larger hole in the gas valve with
the gas port in the barrel to deliver a
bit more power to cycle the gun. This is
helpful if the gun is dirty and isn’t cycling
optimally, since the shooter can’t really
stop to clean it. Sig recommends not
running the gun with the valve in this po-
sition for long because it puts extra wear
and stress on parts.
Turning the plug from the normal
position counter-clockwise one notch
The P516’s forend
aligns a smaller hole in the valve with
features four sections
the gas port, reducing the amount of of Picatinny rail for
power delivered to the piston and bolt attaching accessories.
carrier group. This position is used when
a sound suppressor is attached. With
a suppressor, there is more rearward rier group from cycling and brass from that fouling and hot gas are not routed
pressure, and not as much gas is needed flying when a round is fired. This position into the receiver, as is the case with a
to run the gun. To move the plug to this is used to obtain the highest degree of direct-gas-impingement gun. This re-
position, a small plunger on the front of sound suppression when using a sup- duces stress and heat on the bolt carrier
the gas block must be depressed. pressor. Some believe that this cut-off group, allowing the gun to run without
If the gas plug is turned two clicks position also enhances accuracy, but the as much lubrication, and makes cleanup
clockwise from the normal position (this gun must be cycled by hand. easier. The hot gas instead impacts the
also requires that the plunger be de- The piston itself has three gas rings piston, so carbon builds up there instead
pressed), gas is prevented from entering and fits snugly into the gas valve. One of of in the bolt carrier group. Wherever
the gas system, which keeps the bolt car- the advantages of a gas piston system is the carbon accumulates, though, it still

The sturdy flip-up front sight
features a post bracketed by two
heavy-duty protective wings.
“Surrounding
the SIG P516’s
free-floating
barrel and
piston is a
7.25-inch-long
handguard
with Picatin-
ny rails on
all sides.”
SPECIFICATIONS
SIG SAUER P516

Caliber 5.56x45mm
Barrel 10 inches
Weight 6 pounds (empty)
Grips Synthetic
Sights Flip-up front and rear
Action Semi-auto
Finish Hardcoat anodized
Capacity 30+1
MSRP $1,666

>> SIG SAUER P516
(Clockwise from top left). The rear sight is a folding

unit, the gas block sports an adjustable regulator,
the top rail accept optics such as the Aimpoint Micro
H-1, and the pistol features an ambi mag release.
needs to be removed periodically in order gun is also equipped with the standard
for the gun to keep running. Piston clean-
ing cannot be neglected.
“In 2010, Sig charging handle, bolt forward assist
and brass deflector; however, inside the
Surrounding the free-floating barrel
and piston is a 7.25-inch-long handguard Sauer intro- upper receiver the bolt carrier group is
decidedly not standard when compared
with Picatinny rails on all sides. Sig to a direct-gas gun.
supplies ERGO ladder-type protective
covers for the T-marked slots, of which
duced the SIG516 The carrier does not have a gas key.
Instead, it has a boss that is machined
there are plenty for mounting acces-
sories. But do not put a vertical foregrip
on this pistol—that’s a ticket to jail! The
piston-driven directly into the carrier where the gas key
would otherwise be. The carrier is facet-
ed, not round, and has lightening cuts. It
two side rails have quick-detach sling
swivel sockets at the front and back for AR-15...The pistol is treated with what appears to be a black
nitride finish instead of phosphate, and
is of the same
the attachment of a sling, and there are it is not chrome-lined because it doesn’t
also sockets on each side of the lower have to be. Also referred to as Melonite,
receiver, just in front of the buffer tube. A the black nitride finish is extremely hard,
sling is a very good idea on this pistol be-
cause a holster is pretty much out of the basic design durable and corrosion resistant. The
rear of the carrier is also slightly larger
question and some convenient method of than a direct-gas bolt carrier in order to
carrying it is needed.
The upper receiver has a standard AR-
and pedigree, fit inside the buffer tube more snug-
gly. This reduces carrier tilt, which is an
15 appearance with a T-marked Picatinny
rail running the length of it. At the rear,
Sig supplies a removable flip-up iron
so it should be unfortunate consequence of the change
from a direct-gas to a gas-piston system.
However, the modified carrier solves
sight with large and small apertures. The
a tough gun.” the tilt problem even if it does require

SOME CALL IT SWISS MADE PRECISION
WE CALL IT
SDP Compact DA/SA 9mm
./01 0 / / / 0
0/0 0/0 /00// 0 / 0 /00 0
to deliver outstanding performance through accuracy and reliability, exceeding the expectations of the most demanding
// 0
The SPHINX SDP Compact embodies over 130 years of precision manufacturing, integrating SPHINX tactical and
/ / 1 //1 /0/ 0 /
Visit your SPHINX dealer today to discover why the SDP Compact is quickly becoming the top choice for shooters
/0
/ /0 0 0 0 /! 0/0 /0/ 0 0"#$%&&'( ) *&+,++%+-
MADE IN SWITZERLAND DRIVEN BY PRECISION

>> SIG SAUER P516
that the rear of it (and the interior of the
tube) be lubricated. The bolt looks like
a direct-gas bolt, and the extractor is
equipped with a black spring insert and
a rubber ring to increase gripping power
on the rim of spent cartridges.
The lower receiver looks similar to
that of a typical AR. However, Sig has
made some interesting changes. The
fence surrounding the magazine release
is larger and square instead of round.
The magazine release is also ambidex-
trous. And, in order to make it easier for
the operator to engage the bolt catch,
D O U G L A R S O N P H O TO
Sig added an extension to it. The safety
PERFORMANCE
The author tested the P516
with it braced by a sling.
SIG SAUER He was impressed with its
P516 5.56MM performance and capabilities.
American Eagle 2,765 0.94
62 FMJ
Black Hills
50 Barnes TSX
3,044 0.79 “the SIG proved to be very
Hornady
55 TAP FPD
3,070 0.50
accurate, with groups aver-
aging about an inch or less.”
74 COMBAT HANDGUNS March 2014 combathandguns.com

The SB15 does not function as a
stock, but rather as an adjustable
brace for the shooter’s forearm.
selector and trigger are typical for an

AR, and the trigger on the test gun broke
at a little more than 8 pounds after some
take-up and a bit of overtravel. It’s not
a match-grade trigger, but it’s not meant
to be.
The magazine well is beveled to
enhance fast reloads, and the gun is sup-
plied with one 10-round magazine. The
pistol grip is a Sig design that increases
the size of the backstrap as compared to
an A2 grip. This makes the trigger reach
longer, which some people like. The grip
is also textured on the sides and has
ridges front and back to reduce slippage.
It also has a trap door in the bottom
so that spare parts or batteries can be
stored inside.
The buffer tube, or receiver extension,
is heavily knurled for a short distance
behind the receiver; beyond that it is
smooth. At the rear is a raised portion
with two flat sides that are apparently
there to accept the jaws of a wrench for
assembly and disassembly. This is not
the standard buffer tube found on an AR
rifle, so it will not accept a buttstock.
Don’t attempt to put one on, or you will
be violating the law.
RANGE TIME
Testing was conducted at the Scottsdale
Gun Club’s indoor range, where the P516
attracted a lot of attention. During testing
not a single malfunction was encoun-
tered. From a benchrest, the gun proved
to be very accurate, with groups averag-
ing about an inch or less using an EOTech
XPS3 red-dot sight. That is much better

>> SIG SAUER P516
accuracy than the average person can
expect to get out of a typical handgun.
In off-hand shooting, the gun is a
handful. But any AR-style pistol is going
to be. All are front heavy and weigh more
than most handguns, so they are hard
to hold steady. There are several ways
to grip them, and the owner will have to
experiment to find his preferred method.
One way is to hold the pistol grip in the
normal manner with the support hand
wrapped around the firing hand in a
Weaver or isosceles stance. Another is
to grasp the handguard with the support
hand, which I found to be much more
usable. Others will hold the magazine
well with the support hand, which is an
acceptable alternative.
“the SIG P516

is fun to shoot
and a bit of
a novelty.”
A major aid to aiming and handling
one of the P516 is Sig’s SB15 Pistol
Stabilizing Brace, which is designed to
slip over the buffer tube and help steady
the aim. Once installed, the shooter slips
his forearm through the brace, grasps
the pistol grip and cinches the retaining
strap tight.
The Stabilizing Brace may look
something like a buttstock, but it is not
adjustable for length, it is made of flex-
ible polymer so it is not solid like a butt-
stock, and it is pretty short. Sig sells it
specifically for attaching to the shooter’s
forearm to stabilize the gun when using a
one-handed stance. And it works!
Users could also opt for an adjustable
sling, which, when wrapped around the
back or shoulder can be stretched tightly.
The rearward tension against forward
pressure helps to steady the gun. And,
with a sling, a person can carry the Sig
P516 discreetly underneath a long coat,
making the gun a sort of personal de-
fense weapon along the lines of a short-
barreled rifle. However, a lot of practice
would be needed to develop the skills
necessary to effectively use this weapon.
On the other hand, the gun is fun to
shoot and a bit of a novelty. If you want
to attract attention at the range, or just
want to try something different, the Sig
P516 pistol is a gun to consider. For more
information, visit sigsauer.com or call
603-772-2302.

NO A
W U
45
AVT O
A +
IL P
AB
LE
!
A M M U N I T I O N
AN ACHIEVEMENT IN
B arr i er B l i nd
Per f ormance
1 THE MOST CONSISTENT TACTICAL HANDGUN
AMMO IS NOW AVAILABLE IN 45 AUTO+P!
Urban barriers (heavy clothing, plywood, sheet metal and even auto glass*) are no match for the innovative FlexLock ® bullet loaded
in Critical Duty ® handgun ammunition. Law enforcement and tactical professionals, as well as law-abiding citizens, now have a truly
advanced, 21st century ammunition solution that delivers the most consistent and reliable terminal performance on the market.
*As defined by the “FBI Protocol” handgun ammunition tests.
2
3 NEW FLEXLOCK ® BULLET

4
1 FLEX TIP ® TECHNOLOGY Initiates consistent expansion every time while preventing clogging.
2 INTERLOCK® BAND Works to keep the bullet and core from separating for maximum weight retention and
proven terminal performance through all FBI test barriers.
3 TOUGH BULLET CORE High-antimony lead core delivers controlled expansion for unparalleled terminal
performance consistency through all FBI test barriers.
4 CANNELURED BULLET Provides a consistent crimp location to ensure no bullet setback during feeding.
45 AUTO +P 220 GR FLEXLOCK® CRITICAL DUTY®
BARE GELATIN HEAVY CLOTHING PLYWOOD WALLBOARD SHEET METAL GLASS
AVAILABLE IN: 9MM LUGER 135 GR | 9MM LUGER +P 135 GR | 40 S&W 175 GR | 45 AUTO +P 220 GR 800.338.3220 | HORNADY.COM
DON’T BE A VICTIM!
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6
nearly fell off of it as he approached the
gas pump where I was parked. I looked
at the disheveled and apparently drunk
man, and said, “Are you ok?” He just sort
of looked at me and said, “Yeah, do you
have any money you could give me?” I
usually only carry a debit card, but, being
a charitable person, I answered, “I have
a ton of change in my cup holder.” “That
will work,” the man said.
Thinking nothing was up, I sat down
in my car and started digging change out
of the cup holder. Most of it was pen-
nies, but there was a fair amount of silver
change. All of the sudden he was right
there in my car door. I held out the hand
full of change and said, “Sorry, man,
this is all I have.” He eyed the handful
of change and asked, “What, that’s it? I
can’t buy anything with that.” Once again
I stated that what was in my hand was all
I had. He looked at the change again and
said in a menacing voice, “There’s an ATM
in that store, why don’t you go in there
and get me some money?” That’s when I
thought to myself, “OK, the dynamic has
changed.” I looked at him and said, “This
is all I have and I’m not going inside to get
you any money. Take it or leave it.”
My free hand was on my 1911, which
was tucked between the driver’s seat and
the center console of the car, and I knew
he couldn’t see it because of the way I
was sitting in the car. He narrowed his
eyes and scowled at me and reached in-
side his jacket. As this happened, he said,
“Look, boy, you’re gonna...” but before he
could finish his sentence I had my pistol
out and visible. I said to him “Back up
real slow and get away from me.”
Startled, he quickly backed off, got
on his bike and peddled away as fast as
he could manage. I kept my hand on my
pistol and my eyes on him closely until
he was a few hundred yards away. I then
put my holster on my belt, holstered
the pistol, and went inside to alert the
cashier. My hands were shaking from
the adrenaline high. “You know, that guy
has been bothering the customers here
all week,” the cashier told me. I replied,
“Maybe he’ll think twice before he does
that again.” I thanked the cashier, got in
my car and drove home, thankful that I
had my pistol to protect myself.—RT, TN
Tell Us Your Story!

Combat Handguns pays $100 for each “It Happened
To Me!” letter that we print. Send yours to Combat
Handguns, 1115 Broadway, New York, NY 10010
or e-mail to tactical-life@harris-pub.com. Please
include your full name, address, email and phone
number (including area code). A signed release is
required prior to publication.

ASK THE PROS
ROBERT VOGEL
The former police officer and professional competitive
shooter talks training, favorite guns, dry-fire realities
and the makings of a championship career!
BY COMBAT HANDGUNS
Robert Vogel was raised on a farm in

rural Ohio, where guns and shooting
were a part of life, and where at an early
“Competitive
ageRobert learned to shoot and hunt with
rifles, shotguns and handguns. At 15, he
shooting, law
decided to become a police officer, join- enforcement or
ing the police academy after high school.
While at the academy, he discovered self-defense
competitive shooting, launching a career
that as of this writing has resulted in two have this in
world and 16 national championships
across three Practical/Combat shooting
common—
disciplines.
“For eight and a half years,” Robert
you’re taking
told us, “I served as a full-time street a handgun
cop. During most of that tenure I was
a part of the agency’s SWAT team and and trying
P H O TO C O U RT E S Y PA N T E A O P R O D U C T I O N S
was also one of their firearms instruc-
tors. In May of 2012, I left full time as to shoot and
the demands of my shooting/instructing
career were taking over. So far, I couldn’t hit a human-sized
be happier with that decision.” target as fast
What was the first handgun you as you can
ever fired? What age were you?
I believe it was my grandfather’s old in different
Walther P.38 9mm, and I think I was five
or six. I remember my dad helping me get circumstances.”
a grip on it, and then shooting at some
cans back in our cow pasture.
What is your favorite pistol? What is your favorite type
How did you get into I’ve shot Glocks exclusively for about of holster?
competitive shooting? eight years now and probably have close Well, I’m sponsored by Safariland, and
I discovered IDPA competition when I was to 20. I don’t have a favorite, as they all they really do make some great holsters.
19 and in the police academy. I read about have their purposes, but I do really enjoy I’ve been using their Model 5189 holster
it in a magazine and decided to try it out. shooting Limited [class] with my long- for several years now with great success.
I found the closest club, which was still slide Glock 24. It holds the pistol at the right angle and
an hour away, and just showed up at their doesn’t interfere with getting a consistent
monthly match. What’s your favorite grip on the pistol while it’s still in the hol-
chambering? ster. I also think the ALS system for duty
What’s your favorite style Depending on the competition, I compete holsters is the best out there.
of shooting? with a 9mm, a .40 and sometimes a .45
I call it “practical” shooting, which en- ACP. For real-life carry purposes I often What’s your fondest
compasses USPSA, IPSC and IDPA. These carry a Glock 35 in .40. Personally, I don’t match memory?
sports I believe do the best job of balanc- think it matters much with the right The very first match I ever went to. I was
ing accuracy, power and speed, which are ammunition. I’m also a hunter, and have 19. I had never competed against anyone
crucial if you’re trying to keep things real. shot and killed many animals, big and else, other than friends and family. I had
The shooting in these disciplines is very small, with Glocks. I don’t think it makes no idea where I would stack up. There
much the same as the shooting required a lot of difference when you’re talking were about 20 people there, but I was put
in most law enforcement training. about these three calibers. on the beginner squad and didn’t get to

see some of the better shooters. They
emailed the results a few days later and
I saw I had won High Overall by about 10
to 12 seconds, beating several “Experts.”
I was floored! From that moment on I
never let up.
What kinds of off-the-range

training do you do throughout
the year?
I’m really not huge on working out, but
I do try to stay active. I’m big on grip
strength and train hard on that. I try to
be outside a lot, moving around, doing
things—hunting, hiking, kayaking or
sometimes helping my dad on the farm.
Do you think that competitive

shooting has applications for
those who want to train for
self-defense?
Of course it does. Whether you’re talk-
ing about competitive shooting (USPSA,
IDPA), law enforcement applications or
even concealed carry/self-defense shoot-
ing, they all have this in common—you
are taking a real handgun and trying to
shoot at, and actually hit, a human-sized
target as fast as you can hit it under a
variety of different circumstances. I don’t
care which of those three you’re most
interested in, when it comes down to the
shooting that is the goal!
There are those, of course, who put
down competitive shooting, but it is
usually because they either have very
limited experience in it or are not very
good…or both.
How often do you dry fire?

In one form or another, just about every
day. For sheer skill building I feel it has
no equal. For every live round that I
actually fire, I probably mimic that round
eight to 10 times in dry fire. It is human
nature to fear loud explosions going off in
front of our faces, and therefore flinching
or jerking the trigger, especially during
rapid fire, is all too common. We need
to train our bodies not to do this in an
environment where we are very aware of
what is going on. This is where dry fire
comes into play.
Do you have any advice

for aspiring shooters?
The best advice I can give them is to face
their fears. Nothing great will ever hap-
pen inside your comfort zone. If you have
the fortitude to continually make yourself
do things that you are nervous doing,
you will expand your comfort zone and
achieve things most people will not. Don’t
be a spectator—be a doer!

>> G30S/G41 GEN4/G42
PERFORMANCE
GLOCK 41 GEN4 .45 ACP

Blazer 230 FMJ 807 2.06
Winchester Ranger 929 1.03
SXT 230 JHP
GLOCK 30S .45 ACP

Federal Personal 981 1.11
Defense 65 HSHP
Winchester PDX1 230 900 1.32
Bonded JHP
GLOCK 42 .380 ACP

Blazer 95 FMJ 847 2.03
Winchester 825 2.00
88 JHP
There is an important difference, how-

ever—the top of the G42’s slide is solid.
This means the barrel and internals are
sealed and can stand up to harsher envi-
ronments (e.g., sand, dirt, mud, etc.).
Test firing the new Glock 41 resulted
in gratifyingly small groups at 25 yards
(well under 4 inches). Glock’s dual recoil
spring system and the gun’s longer
slide aided in handling and control—the
G41 just seems to “hang” better in the
hand(s). The gun’s 13-round standard-
capacity magazine is of the Gen4 variety:
mag catch cutouts are located on both
sides of the magazine, so the gun’s am-
bidextrous magazine catch will lock the
magazine in, no matter the mag catch’s
position. With its self-illuminating night
sights and cold-hammer-forged barrel
with octagonal rifling, there is little doubt
that the Glock 41 is capable of success-
fully engaging targets out to 100 yards!
I think Clint Smith would say this is a
“comforting” Glock.
DEEP CONCEALMENT
Moving down to the other end of the
size scale, we come to Glock’s other
new autopistol, the Glock 42 in .380 ACP.
Externally, it mimics the iconic silhou-
ette of a Glock pistol. Close examination,
however, reveals some interesting and
subtle differences. This is a super-slim-
line Glock—it’s not even an inch thick
(rather, 0.94 inches)! The frame texture
is of the Gen4 type, but its roughness has
been subdued—as befits a gun that will
spend much of its life hidden in or under
clothing and perhaps next to bare skin.

The magazine catch is reversible, and the
six-round magazine will lock in no matter
how the catch is oriented (an extended
magazine is under consideration). There
is also a minor but welcome extension at
the top rear of the frame to protect the
web of the user’s shooting hand. Glock
made history with its injected polymer
frames, and its mastery of the process
has helped give Glock a leadership posi-
tion in the market for polymer semi-auto
handguns of all sizes.
The G42 features the usual Glock
components: a super-hard and corro-
sion-resistant finish, the Safe Action
trigger system with its three automatic,
independent safeties, a dual recoil
spring unique to the model and a cold-
hammer-forged barrel. But while this is
a pocket-sized pistol, the engineers at
Glock provided it with one outstanding
and paradigm-shaping design feature:
It fires with the barrel and slide locked,
instead of as an unlocked blowback like
its pocket-pistol compeers.
The G42’s locked-breech design yields
a number of positive attributes. First, it
is noticeably more comfortable to shoot.
The greater the shooter comfort, the
more often you’ll practice shooting, and
that leads to greater preparedness and
practical accuracy. The G42’s competi-
tors sometimes are painful to shoot, and
uncomfortable handling characteristics
are of no benefit to the operator.
Second, the design by itself yields
notable and consistent accuracy, as the
barrel is “locked” at the moment of firing.
The .380 ACP, though not as powerful as
the .45 ACP, will neutralize threats when
shot with decent accuracy. So long as the
shooter does his or her part—and with the
locked-breech design, the shooter’s job is
easier—the G42 will deliver with finality.
Third, the locked breech leads to
greater barrel and pistol longevity. I have
not had a G42 long enough to conduct
endurance testing, but the gun should
be able to process 10,000 rounds with
no damaging effects (with preventative
maintenance).
Some may disparage the littlest Glock,
but any one who does will not have
thought the issue through. Many citizens
and law enforcement officers desire
nothing more than a very small and slim
Glock for daily concealed carry. The Glock
42 is, simply put, the best for that.
Indeed, this correspondent could well
imagine a Glock 41 Gen4 as a primary
weapon, the Glock 30S in a backup role
and the potent, pocket-sized Glock 42 as
the third gun! For more information, visit
us.glock.com or call 770-432-1202.

did both wearing a Blackhawk thumb-
break holster that I had converted from a “Revolvers may not have the firepower
6-inch closed bottom holster to a 4-inch
one with an open bottom. The first drill
involved moving laterally off the X while
of semi-autos, but they can still
drawing and then firing double or triple
taps at two simulated assailants at 7
yards. One target presented body shots
deliver telling blows, especially when
and the other headshots. The SSR’s
slightly grip-heavy balance made for
fast presentations and helped it point
loaded with magnum ammunition.”
very well.
The second drill involved a simulated
house clearing. The shooter opened a
door into a hallway that had two simu- excellent. All shots during both drills still deliver telling blows, especially
lated assailants standing behind a barrel. landed in vital areas. There was no when loaded with magnum ammunition.
One assailant partially covered the other. decrease in tactical accuracy when mag- Combine this with the revolver’s ease
The more exposed target offered upper num loads were used. In addition, the of use and ability to be loaded with light
body and headshots, while the second chamfered charge holes made reloads or heavy loads, and you have a handgun
had only the head and gun arm/hand vis- with the Safariland speedloader fast and that can be shot by individuals of differ-
ible. Each target was double tapped from easy. Combine this performance with ent skill levels, and used for everything
the cover of the doorway. I then moved the results of the accuracy and velocity from target shooting to personal defense
quickly down the hall and engaged a third tests, and it’s clear that the SSR is a well- and hunting. The custom features of the
simulated assailant who was standing 15 rounded and very practical revolver. SSR provide advanced handling qualities
yards past the end of the hallway, in an that maximize the “Jack of All Trades”
open area. The third target was double FINAL THOUGHTS nature of revolvers, making this new gun
tapped. I then performed an emergency The SSR clearly proves that rumors of from Smith & Wesson a very good choice
reload from cover, reacquired the target the service revolver’s demise are indeed for many of today’s shooters. For more
and shot twice again. premature. Revolvers may not have the information, visit smith-wesson.com or
The SSR’s tactical performance was firepower of semi-autos, but they can call 800-331-0852.

HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS
Quality Tools at Ridiculously Low Prices
LIFETIME WARRANTY
ON ALL HAND TOOLS!
FACTORY DIRECT SAVINGS SUPER COUPON! SUPER COUPON!

How does Harbor Freight sell great quality
FREE
tools at the lowest prices? We buy direct
25%
from the same factories who supply the
expensive brands and pass the savings
on to you. It’s just that simple! Come in
and see for yourself why over 25 million 3-1/2" SUPER BRIGHT
satisfied customers and leading automotive NINE LED
and consumer magazines keep talking ALUMINUM
OFF
about our great quality and unbeatable Item 65020
shown
FLASHLIGHT
prices. Visit one of our 475 Stores ITEM 65020/
69052/69111
Nationwide and use this 25% Off Coupon
on one of over 7,000 products*, plus pick
up a Free 9 LED Aluminum Flashlight,
a $6.99 value.
ANY SINGLE ITEM!
$ 99 6VALUE
WITH ANY
• We Will Beat Any Competitor’s Price LIMIT 1 - Save 25% on any one item purchased at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by
calling 800-423-2567. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon, gift cards, Inside
PURCHASE
Within 1 Year Of Purchase Track Club membership, extended service plans or on any of the following: compressors,
generators, tool storage or carts, welders, floor jacks, Towable Ride-On Trencher (Item LIMIT 1 - Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or prior purchase. Coupon good at
• No Hassle Return Policy 65162), open box items, in-store event or parking lot sale items. Not valid on prior purchases
after 30 days from original purchase date with original receipt. Non-transferable. Original
our stores, HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Offer good while supplies last.
Shipping & Handling charges may apply if not picked up in-store. Non-transferable. Original
• 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/28/14. Limit one coupon per customer per day. coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/28/14. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
NOBODY BEATS OUR QUALITY, SERVICE AND PRICE!
R !
PE ON R ! 580 LB. CAPACITY R !
PE ON
• 70 dB
Noise 4000 PEAK/
SU UP 3 GALLON, 100 PSI PE ON Item 95659 FOUR DRAWER SU UP Level 3200 RUNNING WATTS
SU UP SUPER
CO OILLESS PANCAKE shown
TOOL CART CO QUIET! 6.5 HP (212 CC)
CO LOT NO. 95659/
AIR COMPRESSOR 61634/61952 GAS GENERATORS
$99 99 Item LOT NO. 68528/69676/69729

Item 95275 LOT NO. 95275/ 68527
shown 60637/69486/61615 WINNER shown LOT NO. 68527/69675/69728
Silver Medal CALIFORNIA ONLY
SAVE Truckin’ Magazine REG.
SAVE
50%
$ 39 REG.
99 PRICE
$79.99
$160 $ 154 99
SAVE
$ 29999 PRICE
$499.99
calling 800-423-2567. Cannot

REG. PRICE $259.99
be used with other discoun
t
s last.
$200
or HarborFreight.com or bypurchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplie
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores
es after 30 days from original Limit one coupon per custom
er per day. LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount
or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. or coupon or prior purchascoupon must be presented. Valid through 5/28/14. or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last.
Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/28/14. Limit one coupon per customer per day. Non-transferable. Original Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/28/14. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
R ! 3/8" x 75 FT. R ! R ! 18 PIECE T-HANDLE

PE ON PE ON PE ON
SU UP CAMOUFLAGE SU UP RAPID PUMP® SU UP BALL POINT AND HEX
CO SAVE POLY ROPE CO 3 TON LOW PROFILE CO KEY WRENCH SET
66% LOT NO.
47835/61674 SAVE HEAVY DUTY 20"
Item 47835 $100 STEEL FLOOR JACK LOT NO.

96645
shown Item 61253 shown LOT NO. 68049/
LOW PROFILE 60688/61253/61282
REG.
2
2-3/4'' High
$ 99 PRICE REG. REG.

$8.99 29'' Long
$ 6999 PRICE
$169.99
SAVE
40%
$ 1199 PRICE
$19.99
• Weighs 77 lbs.
LIMIT 8 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount
or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last.
Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/28/14. Limit one coupon per customer per day. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/28/14. Limit one coupon per customer per day. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/28/14. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
R ! R !
PE ON SAVE 60" WORKBENCH WITH PE ON 12 VOLT, 10/2/50 AMP R ! 3500 LB. ELECTRIC WINCH
SU UP FOUR DRAWERS SU UP BATTERY CHARGER/ PE ON ! WITH REMOTE CONTROLE
CO $110 CO SU UP NEW
ENGINE STARTER
LOT NO. 66783/ CO AND AUTOMATIC BRAK
60581/60653 SAVE
Item 93454
shown
LOT NO.
93454/69054 SAVE LOT NO. 68145/ $80
62% 61257/61383/61604
Item 60653
$2999 $79
99 $
shown Item 61257 shown
$ 139
REG. PRICE $249.99
99
13999
REG.
PRICE
$159.99
REG. PRICE $79.99 be used with other discoun

t
calling 800-423-2567. Cannot last.
LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount or HarborFreight.com or bypurchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies
or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores
es after 30 days from original Limit one coupon per custom
er per day.
Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/28/14. Limit one coupon per customer per day. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/28/14. Limit one coupon per customer per day. or coupon or prior purchascoupon must be presented. Valid through 5/28/14.
Non-transferable. Original
R ! WIRELESS DRIVEWAY R ! RETRACTABLE AIR/WATER R ! GUN SAFE/VAULT
PE ON PE ON PE ON
SU UP ALERT SYSTEM SU UP Item HOSE REEL WITH SU UP LOT NO.
CO CO CO
93897 93473/61581
shown 3/8" x 50 FT. HOSE Item 93473
shown
LOT NO. 93897/69265
LOT NO.
93068/69590/61910
"Impressed with the Quality,
Covers your Entire Garage at an SAVE
Unbelievable Low Price"
$50
1399
– Street Trucks Magazine
$ SAVE REG.
SAVE
53%
Item 93068
shown
REG. PRICE $29.99 $70 $ 5999 PRICE
$129.99
$ 99
99
REG. PRICE $149.99
LIMIT 3 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount LIMIT 5 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount LIMIT 4 - Good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount
or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last. or coupon or prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase with original receipt. Offer good while supplies last.
Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/28/14. Limit one coupon per customer per day. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/28/14. Limit one coupon per customer per day. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 5/28/14. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
475 Stores Nationwide

interchangeable backstrap panels to ac- Gold Dot to standard Winchester 9mm
commodate different-sized hands. The FMJ—without a hiccup. Test ammo for
width and height of the 5-inch model the PPQ M2 consisted of heavy-hitting
are otherwise identical to the standard 124-grain Federal Premium Hydra-
4-inch PPQ M2. However, the inte- Shok JHP, 115-grain Hornady Critical
gral Picatinny rail, combined with the Defense FTX and the more afford-
added slide and barrel length, allows able but equally reliable Winchester
a little more room for tactical lights or 115-grain FMJ, which comes in a
combination light/laser systems behind 100-round value pack.
the extended muzzle. And the oversized With a ProChrono chronograph set
“The PPQ M2 is as bold for 2013 as the P99 was in 1996, and
the addition of the 5-inch M2 version adds yet another layer
to this exceptional new series of Walther semi-auto designs.”
triggerguard leaves plenty of room for up 10 feet from the muzzle, Federal
a gloved hand to safely operate the Premium 124-grain JHPs cleared the
trigger. traps at 1,140 feet per second (fps),
The biggest advantage of the Hornady 115-grains clocked 1,210
5-inch model, however, is its weight. fps, and Winchester 115-grain FMJs
Remember that most Government- flew downrange just a hair quicker at
sized semi-autos have steel frames 1,215 fps. Using a Weaver stance and
and tip the scales at around 39 ounces. a two-handed hold (no benchrest), the
The PPQ M2 5-inch weighs in at just 27 long-barreled Walther delivered a best
ounces empty with a 15-round capac- five-shot group of 1.93 inches with the
ity magazine (or 11 rounds in .40 S&W). Hornady 115-grain. The widest group
That’s an average of 17 ounces less than measured just 2.73 inches with two
a comparably sized 5-inch-barreled, pairs of overlapping shots. Switching to
steel-frame, semi-automatic pistol. hard-hitting Federal Premium Hydra-
Shok, the 124-grain JHP rounds also
RANGE TIME averaged a best of 1.93 inches. With
One of the first things you become Winchester 115-grain FMJs, groups av-
aware of when loading the PPQ is the eraged 2.25 inches. In view of my having
ease with which the ambidextrous slide fired the gun off-hand from a distance
release operates, requiring only modest of 75 feet, those are all respectable
effort with either hand. The trigger pull groups. Shooting this gun from a ben-
is short, with only 0.5 inches of total chrest would easily return 1.25-inch
travel (including the trigger safety); groups for the effort.
there is zero overtravel, and reset is
very quick. Overall, this is exactly what FINAL NOTES
you want from a striker-fired semi-auto I have owned Walthers since the 1970s,
with this type of trigger safety. Trigger and every one has been an exceptional
pull on our test gun averaged only 5.15 firearm. For a 127-year-old company
pounds. that, for all intents and purposes, in-
The adjustable white-dot rear sight vented the SA/DA 9mm pistol and de-
and fixed white-dot front sight on the cocker, to change from that platform to
8-inch slide present an excellent sight the PPQ design speaks volumes about
picture under most lighting conditions. Walther’s openness to new ideas, even
Walther also offers low-light sights when those ideas abandon two of the
as an option, but I found the standard fundamental tenets of designs dating
sights very easy to acquire. back to the 1930s. However, what the
One of the great features of a 9mm PPQ gives up is equally offset by what it
semi-auto is its ability to handle a wide gains. The PPQ M2 is as bold for 2013 as
variety of ammunition—from good, old- the P99 was in 1996, and the addition of
fashioned full metal jacket (FMJ) to the the 5-inch M2 version adds yet another
latest in defensive and law enforcement layer to this exceptional new series of
loads like Hornady Critical Defense Walther semi-auto designs. For more
FTX, Federal Premium Hydra-Shok information, visit waltherarms.com or
jacketed hollow-point (JHP) and Speer call 479-242-8500.

*
In this FREE introductory gunsmithing lesson featuring

Master Gunsmith Robert "Bob" Dunlap you WILL learn:
¥ How to ensure reliable auto-pistol feeding and prevent jams
¥ Understanding and timing of Remington 870 cartridge stops
¥ Checking and adjusting "range" on Smith & Wesson revolvers
¥ Troubleshooting ejection problems on Browning A-5 shotguns
¥ How a gas system works on a Colt AR-15
EA!
¥
¥
AR-7 trigger repairs
Secrets of fast and easy gun repair! GREAT GIFT ID
*
¥ Exclusive teaching method demonstrated in proven
video format that makes learning a snap and much more . . .
Thisonly!
issue
Your FREE DVD will come with a complete information package on how to get
started in gunsmithing FAST. *We just ask that you pay $3.97 for priority AN
GU
NSMITHING
IN
mail shipping. President's Guarantee: I am so confident you will learn how
ST
IC
ER
ITU
AM
TE
Why wait? Get your FREE * to become a gunsmith by watching this FREE DVD, that I will give you a $10 gift
introductory gunsmithing certificate good towards an AGI course of your choice when you order this package.
THE
OL
HO
Sincerely, Gene Kelly, President, American Gunsmithing Institute
NA
SC
lesson and complete
TI
N
G
O
’S IN
PR
EMI ITH
ER GUNSM
information package today!

The American Gunsmithing Institute is the nation's PREMIER gunsmithing school!
Currently there is a HUGE Demand for gunsmiths. Here's how AGI’s Professional Gunsmithing Course
Millions of guns need fixing. Most of the old-time gunsmiths have retired and changed Robert Briskey’s life:
haven’t been replaced, because previously there wasn’t a cost effective way to "Within one short year I opened up my own firearms repair and
quickly train individuals to become gunsmiths and help them make money fast. custom refinishing shop. My business is exceeding my dreams.
This has created a chronic shortage and a huge opportunity for you. The freedom I enjoy being self-employed is priceless. Without the
opportunity that AGI's course offered, my dream would be just
Gunsmithing is a recession-proof business. It only takes a relatively small investment that, a dream." Robert T. Briskey, Battle Hen Armory
to get started and your one time investment in the course could provide you with a Make your money back in no time:
lifetime of income and opportunity. As soon as you begin watching the videos you will "I had no previous gunsmithing experience, just basic
be able to start making repairs. You don’t have to wait to start gunsmithing! knowledge of firearms. The course in my opinion is well worth
Anytime you run into a problem, you just pop in the DVD on the subject or model gun every penny . . . I have made back what I spent on the course
and then some just working at it part-time. I have even fixed a
you need information on and do a quick review. Certification not required for few guns that other gunsmiths who went to college swore were
gunsmithing in CA. Not available to residents of OK. never able to be repaired." Justin Jones,
Justin's Firearms and Gunsmithing, Blountville, TN
Need assistance in getting started or just want more information?
We're here to help - call a student advisor today at 1-800-797-0867 I'm an AGI student and a Silver GCA member. I was asked
by a friend if I could fix the stock of his 870 Remington.
DISABLED VETERANS Have the Government pay for your training! If you are a disabled Veteran I read about the AGI course on stock refinishing with
with a 30% or more disability rating you may qualify for this program through Veterans Affairs. Gene Shuey. I sent for the course, followed the detailed
step-by-step instructions and the stock looked like new.
www.agiCombat.com
No, it looked like a custom job of woodworking. I am so
happy with this finished stock. The professional instruction
and the materials are top notch in this kit. So, from
1-800-797-0867 today!
or call
Medford, Oregon this is R.G. Waterbury thanking all
of you at AGI for this amazing gift of knowledge.
Offer Code:
COMBAT2014
AMERICAN GUNSMITHING INSTITUTE AGI
At AGI we are working to preserve the gunsmithing arts and all of our personal freedoms through every course we produce.
LETTERS
Our Readers Sound Off

9mm vs. .40 S&W, Sig Sauer’s perfect pairing, top-gun
Todd Jarrett and the S&W M&P45c!
9mm Man you should be more than happy with one As soon as I picked up the M&P45c, I fell
I’m exclusive to Sigs! I have had both built by them. for it. It fit my hand perfectly, it pointed
the 9mm and .40 S&W. After personal As to other competition 1911s, we’ll great and it just seemed “right” to me. I
experience in the field and on the range, certainly keep our eye on the lat- wanted a .45 ACP, but not one that was
I traded my .40 S&W Sig P229 SCT for est models. Recently, in our August too large. This one seemed to be just
a 9mm Sig P226 TacOps due to the 2013 issue, Chad Thompson reviewed right. I have put more than a thousand
muzzle rise and flip in actual shooting Freedom GunWorks’ Freedom Package rounds through it without a hiccup. This
situations. The .40 S&W caused more- 9mm/.40 competition gun, a slide/barrel was a combination of FMJ 230-grainers
than-average rise and flip of the weapon interchangeable pistol that Chad called and my preferred carry round, Hornady
than I would consider safe for myself in the “total package for the competitor Critical Defense 185 grain. It just runs
an actual self-defense situation. Losing who wants to use the high-capacity, and runs and runs. I carry it comfortably
your target in daylight due to muzzle rise 2011-style frame and trigger to which in an inside-the-waistband rig all day. It
and flip and then having to reacquire they are accustomed while being able is like it is not even there. If anybody else
your target immediately is bad enough to shoot in more than one category.” To is looking for a handy .45 carry gun, this
and deadly, now imagine this same check out Chad’s review, visit our web- one is a good choice if you ask me!
scenario occurring at nighttime! Power site, personaldefenseworld.com. —TJ, IN
is great and fine, but being able to hold
target with little to no recovery time is Big-Bore Fanatic EDITOR’S RESPONSE
what keeps you alive out there! Thanks for the great review of the We’re glad that you enjoyed the review of
—TD, VIA THE INTERNET Guncrafter .50GI Model No. 1 pistol the M&P45c and that it helped you select
(March ‘14). I am a big-bore fanatic: I your perfect carry gun. The fact that the
Top-Gun Todd Jarrett own several .44 Mags and even a .50 M&P45c combines good capacity with a
Todd is the boss! I have seen him Desert Eagle, and I have been seriously manageable size makes it a great option
compete a few times and am amazed considering getting one of these 1911s for shooters like you. In fact, Smith &
at his shooting know-how. He is just as well. Although my other big bores are Wesson makes a full line of compact and
about unstoppable when it comes to cool, they are not that easy to carry. This powerful handguns, from its popular
fast shooting. And accurate, too. If this one seems like it would be a breeze to J-frame revolver series to the popular
Abernathy is the gun that he uses, then carry as it is the same size as a standard Shield pistol to the capable Bodyguard
it is good enough for me. I am going to 1911. Now, I just have to find the ammo. series. There is something there for just
have to look into getting one built myself. —JJ, VIA THE INTERNET about everybody. Keep shooting, and
Although I know it won’t make me as a thanks for reading!
good a shot as Todd is! Holy Grail, Cont.
By the way, is there any chance of I love my CZs and especially the 75D New Millennium
your doing a Q&A with Todd on how he PCR Compact. I’ve had both the full-size I researched and researched for a
got into shooting, who influenced him, and compact steel-frame models, and good concealed-carry handgun and
and maybe some tips on how we can be now my everyday-carry pistol is an alloy- considered a few different options like
better shooters? I think it would be a frame compact. And yes, HD (Letters, the S&W M&P. Then I came across the
great read, and I for one would defi- March ‘14), for many CZ lovers the PCR Taurus Millennium G2 (November ‘13),
nitely want to hear what he has to say. is still the Holy Grail, though CZ-USA for the price of $380. I was cautious
Also, any chance of your running some has made huge strides in getting its pis- while pursuing this gun, but I found that
reviews of other competition-ready tols to U.S. shooters. I’m hoping Combat I ultimately got a gun that is worth far
1911s? I am a fan and carry one myself, Handguns will soon do a write up on the more than its retail price. What a quality
but I would like to learn more about ones P-09 or the updated version of the P-07. handgun—stable, accurate, and I love
designed for competitive shooting. —BA, VIA THE INTERNET the fit of it in my hand!
Thanks, and keep up the good work! —MT, VIA THE INTERNET
—JD, NC S&W M&P45C
I own a Smith & Wesson M&P45c like Editor’s Note: Please send your “Letter To The
EDITOR’S RESPONSE the one you covered in the February ‘13 Editors” to Combat Handguns, 1115 Broadway, New
JD, thanks for your note. Todd Jarrett is issue and could not agree more about York, NY 10010, attention: “Letter To The Editors,”
indeed a remarkably talented shooter, as how great a gun it is. I was in a local or email to tactical-life@harris-pub.com. Please
include your full name, postal and email address and
evidenced by his long list of professional gun shop in southern Indiana about six phone number (including area code). On submission,
action-shooting accomplishments. And, months ago looking for a gun for carry. I your comments are our property: We may publish
the Abernathy Custom 1911 is an excel- went in without any plan for what I would or republish them in any medium, including print
lent gun according to our reviewer, so get. I just wanted to see what they had. and online.

NEWPRODUCTS
ROUNDUP
NDU
EAA CORP
WITNESS PAVONA
NA LIBERTY SAFE SAFELERT
As is well known, women are the gun indus-
try’s fastest-growing demographic. Not content SAFE MONITOR
to paint a gun pink and call it “ladies only,” The SafElert firearm safe monitor, made by well-regarded
European American Armory (EAA) set about safe-maker Liberty Safe, allows users to monitor the
designing a handgun specifically tuned to meet status of their safe, regardless of the brand, from nearly
the needs of the growing female firearms market. anywhere in the world. Measuring a compact 3 inches by 2
The result is the Witness Pavona, a compact, inches by 1 inch, the SafElert can be easily (and discreetly)
easy-to-load, easy-to-control semi-auto hand- fit into nearly any sized storage compartment. Should
gun. Ergonomically advanced, the Pavona your safe be tampered with, jostled, moved or overheated,
features a distinct, smooth polymer frame with in- the SafElert will alert you immediately via email or text
tegral checkering and sculptured, contoured lines. The message. All the user needs is a wireless router, a safe or
Pavona is tastefully packaged, and comes in a variety of similar storage compartment, and something worth keep-
calibers and sparkling, colored frames (eaacorp.com). ing one’s eye on 24/7 (libertysafe.com).
THE GUN BOX

GUN SAFE
In a home-invasion scenario
every second is precious, and
speedy access to your firearm
is essential. The Gun Box,
designed and developed by master
engineer Ryan Hyde, opens automatically with
the touch of a fingerprint (programmed by the user) or a swipe
of the included microchip-bearing ring or wristband. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, the
Gun Box can withstand up to 24,000 pounds-per-square-inch of pressure and temperatures over
1,000-degrees Fahrenheit. And with its thin, artful, clamshell dimensions, it can be discreetly and
easily hidden from view. The Gun Box also includes an integrated alert system that emits via text
message immediate notification should it be moved or tampered with. A neoprene interior lining
keeps your firearm held securely in place and prevents scratching (thegunbox.com).
HEIZER PS1 POCKET SHOTGUN

The ultimate backup thundergun, the Heizer PS1 stainless
steel pocket shotgun offers users .45 Colt and .410-gauge
power in an easily concealable yet heavy-duty package.
A break-top-action single shot, the PS1 shoots both
cartridges effortlessly. Heizer’s first pistol fired over 5,000
.410 shells in just two-and-a-half days of straight firing.
RADETEC
A quick-release lever opens the action, and an internal AMMOCONTROL
extractor raises the spent shell for a quick reload. The DIGITAL COUNTER
trigger has roller bearings in it for a silky smooth trigger Say goodbye to the days of wonder-
pull. Space is provided inside the grip for storing two
additional rounds. The PS1 also has a grip designed to
MIDWEST
DWE ing how many rounds you have left
lower recoil and will be available initially in Isonited Black. GUN WORKS in your magazine. With the Radetec
AmmoControl Digital Counter, a
Future colors include Desert Tan, Bronze, Prison Pink and
Polished Stainless Steel (heizerdefense.com).
VZ GRIPS digital shot tabulator integrated
Midwest Gun Works (MGW), a into a specialized Radetec grip
gunsmith and firearms parts and (configured not unlike a laser
accessories provider located proudly grip), users can closely track their
in Pevely, Missouri, is now providing shot count, receiving a shot-to-
top-of-the-line VZ Grips. Machined shot tally of the number of rounds
from G10 and Micarta, MGW’s impec- remaining in the magazine as well
cably finished VZ Grips both look and as the total number of rounds
feel great, offering users a solid and fired. Just place the provided
secure gripping surface for handling Radetec follower in the magazine,
and shooting their handguns. MGW’s install the grips, and you’re good
VZ Grips, offered in an array of colors to go. Two followers, a battery and
and textures, are made to fit a wide grips are included with purchase
variety of semi-auto pistols, both (radetec.com).
full size and compact, including the
Beretta 92 Gunner, the Colt Mustang,
the Para P14 and the CZ-75
(midwestgunworks.com).
>> MAC 1911 BOBCUT
ger target. Fortunately, I just got some
large Shoot-N-C targets from Birchwood
Casey that would fit the bill. These were
placed out at the 25-yard line, and I took
a position on the bench, using a sandbag
rest to evaluate the practical accuracy
potential of the MAC 1911 Bobcut. My
point of aim (POA) was the small blaze-
orange oval in the target center. After a
few rounds, I remembered what I hadn’t
done and that was to clean all the excess
lubricant out of the firing-pin channel,
as I was getting some light primer hits.
As the shooting continued, this problem
worked itself out. Shooting three 5-shot
groups with my three .45 ACP test loads,
my best group measured 3.14 inches
using the Black Hills 230-grain JHP
load. Group averages ran from about 3.5
inches to almost 3.9 inches.
“THE BOBCUT
1911 FELT
BETTER IN MY
MEDIUM-SIZED
MITT THAN...
ANY OTHER
1911 PISTOL
I’VE FIRED.”
To test reliability and practical per-
formance during rapid-fire shooting and
loading, I set up a B-27-type target at 15
yards, loaded my magazines with a mix
of the test cartridges and moved to the
3-yard line to run the MAC 1911 Bobcut
through a combat qualification course.
Drawing from the Old Faithfull holster
and using a point-shoulder stance at a
couple of arm’s lengths away, I fired six
shots with the strong-side hand only,
then six with the support-side hand,
sans sights, with a combat reload in be-
tween the two strings. Moving to 7 yards,
I drew and fired a series of three double-
taps, reloaded, then fired a body armor
drill with two shots center-mass and
one to the head. After doing that twice,
I reloaded and moved to the 15-yard
barricade. I fired two shots from cover
on the left side while standing, two from
the right side while standing and then
two kneeling from the right side. Out of
a possible 300 points, I managed a 297.
Most of the shots were well-centered in
the 10-ring scoring area, and I lost two

The grips and front strap of the
pistol have a fish-scale pattern for
enhanced ergonomics and control.
points on one of my headshots that went

a bit high. Not bad considering I don’t do
a lot of shooting with single-action (SA)
autoloaders, and I even remembered to
flip off the safety just before firing.
FINAL NOTES
I was very impressed with the han-
dling characteristics of the MAC 1911
Bobcut. The hand-grabbing stippling and
fish-scale pattern on the grips helped
me maintain control during rapid-fire
shooting. The red fiber-optic front sight
was easy to see for a close-range “flash”
sight picture, and the rear sight was
well defined for more deliberate shoot-
ing as distances increased. Other than
the light primer hits early on caused by
over-lubrication, I had no malfunctions
attributable to the pistol or ammuni-
tion. I liked the heft of the pistol, and the
Bobcut felt better in my medium-sized
mitt than the grip configuration of any
other 1911 pistol I’ve fired. Both the Old
Faithful holster and the Fobus magazine
pouch worked famously, and this pistol
and holster/mag-pouch combo have my
full recommendation for your consid-
eration. For more on the Metro Arms
Corporation, visit metroarms.com or call
732-493-0302. For more on Old Faithful
Holsters, visit oldfaithfulholsters.com or
call 479-226-3082.

COMBAT HANDGUNS CLASSIFIEDS

COMBAT HANDGUNS CLASSIFIEDS

>> STEYR M40-A1
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 67 that you realize you are holding a differ- fact that the most accurate group had
which isn’t a huge amount, but I still ex- ent polymer pistol in your hand. I began two distinct two-shot groups whose holes
perienced no malfunctions. That should to slowly allow the trigger to reset, and were actually touching each other, aside
indicate that the gun is going to work when immediately heard and felt a posi- from the first round fired. Again, I’m not
when (or if) needed. tive click, I knew the gun was ready for sure what that means, if anything, but it
Now, .40 S&W usually has a little the next shot. As soon as I began to press did give me pause when I saw it.
sharper recoil than 9mm, but, on the again, the next shot broke cleanly. I am
M40-A1, the recoil was mild and easily impressed with the job Steyr has done on FINAL THOUGHTS
managed no matter what ammo was be- their trigger for the M40-A1. As it happened, I had this pistol in my
ing used. Handling and ergonomics were All of the shooting I did for the ac- possession considerably longer than is
great, and all the controls were easy to curacy testing on the M40-A1 was from usual with a test gun. I admit to hav-
manipulate. The Steyr pistol’s magazine- the 25-yard line in a benchrest posi- ing a bit of pre-conceived notions about
release button is located in the traditional tion. All groups consisted of five con- the pistol due to its being a relatively
spot, just behind the triggerguard on the secutive shots at individual targets. The inexpensive handgun. Mark it down if
left side of the pistol, and it is a small, Winchester 165-grain had the most ac- you want, but I was wrong to think that
horizontal-shaped button. It is steel, just curate grouping, with a printing of exactly this pistol might be any less than stellar
like the magazines, and is recessed just 3 inches for a five-shot group. The Speer simply because it doesn’t cost as much
the right amount to avoid accidental acti- was next with its 180-grain FMJ print- as some others. For an affordable price,
vation yet remain accessible. The trigger ing at 3.25 inches for its five-shot group, the customer can have an accurate, reli-
broke at a clean 5.1 pounds according and Federal American Eagle 180-grain able pistol not only for concealed carry,
to my Lyman digital trigger-pull gauge. FMJ was third in line, printing a 4.5-inch but also for home defense or competitive
The trigger pull was short, smooth and group. I noticed an interesting phenom- shooting. The factory trigger is more than
lacked any sticking at any point. When enon that I either haven’t seen before acceptable to the buyer right out of the
the trigger reset, this gun really began to or have utterly forgotten about. The very box and can easily be mastered with a
shine! Folks, there is hardly any take- first shot I fired, regardless of ammo, was minimum amount of practice. If you are
up on the reset, and it is nice and fast! every time separate from the rest of the looking for an affordable, new-millen-
Following the fundamentals of taking out group. I don’t know if that is a result of nium handgun based on a time-proven
the trigger slack, a slow steady press and the first round being hand-cycled and the design, I think you will be pleased with
follow through made for a nice, accurate others not, or if it was just me, but it still the Steyr M40-A1! For more information,
shot. However, it is after that first shot interested me. I also was intrigued by the visit steyrarms.com.
GUNSITE GOSSIP
A JEFF COOPER
We have noted an increasing number
of so-called express sights on pistols
here at school. These are the large,
round dot front site and a broad, shallow
RETROSPECTIVE v-rear. This sighting system works quite

well for coarse shooting, and it does
help those of us whose eyesight is not
Excerpts from Gunsite Gargantuan Gossip! what it once was. But, we notice on the
range that students using it tend to print
high groups. This is not a serious objec-
“War is God’s way of teaching siasts keep trying to make up a new tion. Group placement is not a decisive
Americans geography.” set, or to add or subtract, which does factor across the room.
The news people seem to think that nothing but serve to confuse matters. A The issue of unsighted fire in de-
the object of a military enterprise is to major point of issue is Rule 1, “All guns fensive combat keeps cropping up. Its
get home. They keep talking as if the are always loaded.” There are people advocates suggest that since people
only thing a soldier wants to do is to get who insist that we cannot use this are going to use it anyway, we might as
back to base. If that is indeed true, he because it is not precisely true. Some well encourage it. I think this is wrong.
had best stay there in the first place. guns are sometimes unloaded. These What people are “going to do anyway” is
The objective of any hardlyy a proper reason for
military enterprise must teachi
teaching it. It may be that
be victory, at no matter most p people will fire with-
what cost. When you put out sig
sights when confront-
on that uniform you lay ing lethal
let hostility, but that
your life on the line—for is a rea
reason for the atro-
reasons that must seem cious m missing that we read
good to you. To maintain about in the newspapers.
the ideals for which this Here at a school we do not
country was founded, we care a about how things are
must fare forth at least done wrong.
w We do care
once a generation to about how to teach people
wreak our will upon the to do things
t right. The
enemies of liberty. This moder
modern technique gets the
is the worthiest politi- hits. If only a few people
cal effort, and it must be unders
understand the modern
extolled rather than techni
technique that is regret-
deplored. Men get killed table, but that should not
PHOTO COURTESY GUNSITE/GUNSITE.COM

in war, and often enough lead us astray. In the large
they die unworthy deaths view, it is always only a few
lying in a hospital bed people who do anything
stuck full of needles. right. W We can increase that
“Death comes at a crawl numbe
number, and that is why we
or comes with a pounce, teach m marksmanship.
but whether he’s slow Poli
Political correctness
or spry, it’s not the fact foolish
foolishness is so silly that
that you’re dead that it is ha
hard to take seriously,
counts, but only how did but the
there it is. It is even
you die.” That may be an miscal
miscalled, for it is neither
old-fashioned attitude, “It is more blessed to give than to receive. I politica
political nor correct. It
but that does not make it is soci
social censorship. Mr.
wrong. know...about naval gunfire, and I am certainly Jefferson is quoted around
Bear in mind that it impressed with the truth of that proposition.” the inside of his monument
is more blessed to give at Washington as standing
than to receive. I know a certain amount folks maintain that the rule should read foursquare and forever against every
about naval gunfire, and I am certainly that one should always treat all guns form of tyranny over the mind of man.
impressed with the truth of that as if they were loaded. The trouble here As he declaimed, and as I hope we all
proposition. is the “as if,” which leads to the notion agree, the State may justifiably control
It is a continuing annoyance to see that the instrument at hand may actually our actions—but never our thoughts.
people messing around with the safety not be loaded. This leads to disaster,
rules. The four that have been devel- yet we hear it all the time. Sometimes
Note: The intellectual property of Jeff Cooper is
oped over the years suffice entirely as it appears we become so obsessed with owned by Gunsite Academy and reprinted from
now stated. There is no need for more, the goal of safety that we lose sight of Gunsite Gossip 3 with their permission. Jeff Cooper’s
and we really cannot get by with fewer. the purpose of the exercise. Safety is not books are available from the ProShop (928-636-
However, some half-educated enthu- first. Safety is second. Victory is first. 4565; gunsite.com) and jeffcooperbooks.com.

P227 ™ MORE POWER
PER SQUARE INCH.
Some say it’s a double-stack P220. Others say it feels
` .45ACP
` 10+1 Flush, 14+1 Extended
` Slim, Ergonomic Grip

more like a P226. Take hold of the .45ACP, high capacity
` Fits Most P220R and P226R Holsters
P227 and decide for yourself.
Find us: Learn more at

SIGSAUER.COM/P227
Kimber Master Carry Pistols.
Unequaled Quality. Unmatched Performance.
The new Master Carry™ Pro .45 ACP weighs just 28 ounces. A Round Heel
Frame ensures comfortable carry. Important features include night sights
and a stainless steel match grade barrel.
Crimson Trace Master Series Lasergrips The Master Carry™ Ultra .45 ACP has a The Master Carry™ Custom .45 ACP is a
project a bright red dot that speeds aiming short grip, 3-inch bull barrel and weighs full-size 1911 with a stainless steel slide
in any light. Cut from tough G-10, their just 25 ounces. It is ideal for all-day- and frame. Weighing 38 ounces, it is a
aggressive surface ensures a positive grip. every-day concealed carry. great choice for carry or home defense.
The Master Carry series of .45 ACP pistols combine Kimber® performance and
important concealed-carry features into an extraordinary package. Tactical Wedge
night sights, Round Heel Frame with serrated mainspring housing and Crimson
Trace® Master Series™ Lasergrips™ are standard. Master Carry slides are machined
from stainless steel and wear a KimPro® II finish for additional resistance to
moisture and salt. Barrels are also machined from stainless steel to critical match
T H E C H O I C E O F A M E R I C A’ S B E S T
grade dimensions for unequaled Kimber accuracy. One of the Master Carry models
is certain to meet any need. Visit a Kimber Master Dealer and see for yourself.
kimberamerica.com
(888) 243-4522
Kimber ofers nearly 200 purpose-built pistols and rifes to meet any need.
©2013, Kimber Mfg., Inc. All rights reserved. Information and specifcations are for reference only and subject to change without notice.

Combat Handguns 201405

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Combat Handguns 201405

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

738 FS

/TaurusUSA @taurususa CarryOnMovement.com

16 SPRINGFIELD XD-S By Dennis Adler

28 KIMBER TLE/RL II By Dave Bahde

44 METRO ARMS BOBCUT 1911 .45 ACP By William Bell

52 SMITH & WESSON M686 SSR By Martin D. Topper

62 STEYR M40-A1 By Chad Thompson

68 SIG SAUER P516 By Doug Larson

ROGER BETHK E ILLUSTRATION

STAND YOUR GROUND

ontrary to claims by gun

C prohibitionists and the anti-

08 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

combathandguns.com May 2014 COMBAT HANDGUNS 09

10 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

thereafter. The first single-stack maga-

12 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

comes equipped with the usual comple-

combathandguns.com May 2014 COMBAT HANDGUNS 13

Though differently sized, the G41

ment is not a primary concern. A power-

14 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

Upgraded pocket .45 shoots smooth,

In 2012 Springfield Armory re- round with the magazine removed.

16 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

fiber-optic front dard with a synthetic

18 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

stacking and overtravel. Technically, the

combathandguns.com May 2014 COMBAT HANDGUNS 19

is cycled the trigger extends forward

20 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

“With very difficult weather conditions and

Sleek, silent systems

he suppressed .22 rimfire pistol certainly has Elements Of Silence

24 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

26 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

The 1911 pistol has long been a steady favorite of tactical

28 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

combathandguns.com May 2014 COMBAT HANDGUNS 29

The Kimber TLE/RL II 10mm

is accom- II most closely resemble factory Colt

flat shooting characteristics. Shooting

The author tested the Kimber with

30 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

The integral strip of Picatinny rail

bezel is just a bit larger. Having seen

KIMBER TLE/RL II 10mm

CorBon 135 Pow’R Ball 1,472 1.75

32 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

34 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

combathandguns.com May 2014 COMBAT HANDGUNS 35

36 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

The striker-fired PPQ M2 utilizes a

combathandguns.com May 2014 COMBAT HANDGUNS 37

WALTHER PPQ M2 9mm

At 25 yards, the long-barreled

strike capability in the event of a failed

38 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

“The [pistol’s] trigger pull is short...there is

zero overtravel, and reset is very quick.

combathandguns.com May 2014 COMBAT HANDGUNS 39

he event began like a typical

T “girls weekend” of fun—a

40 COMBAT HANDGUNS May 2014 combathandguns.com

^^^IHYULZI\SSL[ZJVT