Michael Crites
Licensed Concealed Carry Holder
Michael Crites is el jefe around here. He has spent more than 30 years shooting, learning about guns, and collecting firearms old and new. He holds his Oregon Concealed Handgun License, and beyond self-defense has tried his hand at 3-gun, trap, and distance-shooting, but ultimately enjoys ringing steel in the back 40 of his Oregon farm with one or more of his boys. His mission is to make guns and shooting accessible for everyone, and American Firearms is a passion project to help make that a reality. When not testing products, plinking, or eradicating some kind of pest from around his chicken coops, he’s mountain biking, getting outside, or finding some new trail to get lost in.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Expertise and interests include firearms of all kinds, from Glock clones to long guns, historical warfare, psychology, the Stoics, and making guns both safe and fun for new shooters
- Enjoys writing about new developments in the world of firearms and inventing fun ways to test products of all kinds
- Previous work experience: running a small trap club in SW Washington
EXPERIENCE
Crites never went to college nor majored in anything other than hustle and bruised ego. He was fortunate to be introduced to firearms at a young age, winning a few trap tournaments before he could drive and crawling silently through the Pacific Northwest hills every fall in search of a trophy elk. He spent every summer and fall of the first 25 years of his life outdoors, eventually slowing down his outside pursuits when he started a family. In the early 2000s, he was a freelance marketer for a number of outdoor publications and eventually decided to wade back into the world of firearms in 2019 by launching American Firearms, with the goal of trying, testing, and bringing his own expert-level reviews to readers.
FAVORITE QUOTE
“For nothing outside my reasoned choice can hinder or harm it — my reasoned choice above can do this to itself.” Epictetus, Discourses, 3.19.3-3


September 03, 2023
Admiral: A New Name Enters the 1911 Game
In 1911, Colt began production of their now-iconic Government Issue Model pistol, which was of course adopted by the U.S. Army that year as the Model of 1911. Other than licensed production by a few companies– North American Arms and Remington Arms – UMC– as well as production by the Army-owned Springfield Armory during the… Continue reading Admiral: A New Name Enters the 1911 Game

August 21, 2023
Hellion Bullpup: Now in Three Flavors
Springfield Armory has been importing its American take on the Croatian-made VHS2 5.56 NATO chambered bullpup carbine for a minute, and now they have expanded the line up to include both 18- and 20-inch variants, really growing the family. The HS Produkt VHS is a legit combat rifle, already seeing some real-life service around the… Continue reading Hellion Bullpup: Now in Three Flavors

August 14, 2023
The Yeet has Finally Hit the Streets
While the planned release date on the gun slipped from late 2019 to August 2023, the Hi-Point YC-9 Yeet Cannon has finally made it to the market.

August 07, 2023
A Look At The World of Micro Compact 9mm Pistols
A category of handguns that didn’t even exist before 2018, the micro compact 9mm is exploding in popularity, with almost 20 models currently in production. Let’s look at what these guns are, why they are important, and how they stack up against each other.

August 07, 2023
A Look at Trijicon’s Updated RMR & New RCR Closed Emitter MRD
So as you may have heard, Trijicon Has an Updated RMR and Enclosed Pistol Dot The Trijicon RMR is one of the most seen pistol (or auxiliary rifle) red dots in hard use service today and it is not surprising that the company has updated the dot in the form of the new RMR HD.… Continue reading A Look at Trijicon’s Updated RMR & New RCR Closed Emitter MRD

July 31, 2023
The P320 Shake Awake Trigger?
SIG Sauer has been getting a lot of flak over their P320 series pistols in recent years over perceived safety concerns and a new video just poured gas on the fire.

July 25, 2023
What’s up with the 5.7 Resurgence?
The FN 5.7x28mm cartridge first hit the market over 30 years ago and almost died out but, in the past few years, has seen a remarkable jump in popularity. Why?

July 17, 2023
The Echelon: Is Springfield Armory Getting It Right?
Today’s Springfield Armory, Inc dates to 1974 and, when it comes to handguns, primarily makes assorted 1911s and 2011s (the terribly received Prodigy) domestically then imports pistols from Croatia’s HS Produkt— the XD series (HSP G2, SF, and S series) and the Hellcat (the HSP S7). Now, the company appears to be putting the XD… Continue reading The Echelon: Is Springfield Armory Getting It Right?

July 13, 2023
Taurus Judge Review: From The Courtroom to The Range
The Taurus Judge, most people know about it and love it but many don’t know the importance of this revolver. Before the Taurus Judge nearly every firearm had one intended purpose. A shotgun was for hunting and shooting clays, a rifle was for hunting or defense, and pistols were mainly designed and used for self-defense… Continue reading Taurus Judge Review: From The Courtroom to The Range

July 10, 2023
News: A Look at the Q Boombox: the first gas-operated 8.6 BLK
Kevin Brittingham of Q was one of the big brains at the old-school AAC when that company developed the original Honey Badger and the .300 Blackout more than a decade ago. Well, AAC flip-flopped between Remington and is now at Palmetto State Armory, while Brittingham, along with AAC’s Ethan Lessard, long ago left to start… Continue reading News: A Look at the Q Boombox: the first gas-operated 8.6 BLK

July 05, 2023
News: Luth Saves The Slick Sided A1 Day, Sub Guns Holding Fast, and a New Marlin 1894
Luth Sails to the Rescue with Slick Side A1 Uppers Whereas no one wanted a fixed A1 style upper just 15 years ago, as they were obsolete and so https://youtu.be/qV4Q-RSQCq0 “Fortunate Son” in an age when everyone wanted a flattop, they have since become almost impossible to find. Now, as everyone suddenly wants to make… Continue reading News: Luth Saves The Slick Sided A1 Day, Sub Guns Holding Fast, and a New Marlin 1894

July 04, 2023
The Best Glock Barrels in 2023
No matter if you are doing a new build from the ground up or are out to upgrade your Glock’s current barrel, you’ll need some guidance. Your Glock’s barrel is one of the most important components of the pistol, and there are lots of things to keep in mind before you add one to a… Continue reading The Best Glock Barrels in 2023

July 02, 2023
SIG M400 Review: A Duty-Grade AR That Won’t Break the Bank
The SIG M400 is a popular AR-15 rifle (and one of our favorites) that is known for its accuracy, reliability, and value. It is a great choice for both beginners and experienced shooters. The SIG Sauer M400-SDI XSeries is one of the latest iterations of Sig’s line of AR-style rifles. Utilizing some advancements and upgrades… Continue reading SIG M400 Review: A Duty-Grade AR That Won’t Break the Bank

June 30, 2023
News: SIG Optics, Viridian, POF-USA, and KAK Industry Announce New Summer 2023 Products
SIG Ups Whiskey to 4th Gen SIG’s Electro-Optics wing is fairly new, just eight years old. Their naming convention is easy to figure out, borrowing from the NATO phonetic alphabet. For instance, Romeo is set aside for non-magnified red dots, Juliet for magnifiers, Zulu for binos, Kilo for rangefinders, Foxtrot for lights, etc. Their Whiskey… Continue reading News: SIG Optics, Viridian, POF-USA, and KAK Industry Announce New Summer 2023 Products

June 29, 2023
The Best Suppressor Covers in 2023
Heat mirage is the visual distortion that appears on asphalt and other dark surfaces on a hot day. This can impact your weaponry as well – especially the suppressor on your rifle. A hot suppressor can throw off this same heat distortion, obscuring your view of the target. This is even more pronounced if you… Continue reading The Best Suppressor Covers in 2023

June 27, 2023
Beretta Bobcat Review: A Palm Full of 22 Caliber Prevention
The Beretta Model 21A, commonly just called the Bobcat, is an ultra-compact semi-auto pistol offered in .22LR and .25 ACP. With a single-stack magazine that gives the user 7-8 rounds, it is fun to shoot, can be dependable in operation with the right ammo, and is easy to load and operate with its “tip-up” barrel… Continue reading Beretta Bobcat Review: A Palm Full of 22 Caliber Prevention

June 24, 2023
HK416 Review: A New Take on the Iconic HK416
The 5.56×45mm NATO HK416 A5 occupies a kind of iconic status in the world of guns. Its lineage, historical significance, and performance capabilities have made it the go-to rifle in various spheres of the shooting world, from military and law enforcement agencies as well as gun safes of private owners. Its standing is hard to… Continue reading HK416 Review: A New Take on the Iconic HK416

June 20, 2023
News: Nighthawk’s Double stack Boardroom, a competition-ready Holosun 507, & Anderson’s Legit Budget Dissipator
Nighthawk Goes Boardroom Double stack Nighthawk Custom makes some of the nicest 1911s around and their Boardroom series is among their top-shelf offerings. Now, with everyone making a double-stack 2011 these days, Nighthawk has pulled a “hold my small batch IPA” and introduced the new Boardroom Double Stack 9mm, or BDS9. With such Gucci features… Continue reading News: Nighthawk’s Double stack Boardroom, a competition-ready Holosun 507, & Anderson’s Legit Budget Dissipator

June 18, 2023
Vortex Sonora Reviewed: Affordable Mid-Power Precision
Many a rifle whisper will spew forth the advice that one should “spend as much on the glass as the rifle” — but what if that’s not in the cards? I’m more of a “spend what you can realistically afford” kind of guy, which means certain brands aren’t really on the radar a lot of… Continue reading Vortex Sonora Reviewed: Affordable Mid-Power Precision

June 12, 2023
News: AAC E3: Coming soon, new CMMG Dissent Rifles, & Ghost Gunner has SIG P320’d the Glock
AAC E3: Coming soon Advanced Armament Corp, better just known by its AAC acronym, is a brand that was one of the first big suppressor makers. They were responsible for the Honey Badger and the .300 Blackout before Remington Outdoors gobbled them up and basically destroyed the company. The brains trust there included John Hollister,… Continue reading News: AAC E3: Coming soon, new CMMG Dissent Rifles, & Ghost Gunner has SIG P320’d the Glock

June 07, 2023
AR-15 Laser Sight Reviews: Top Picks for 2023
Ah, the laser sight. Conjuring up images of Stallone’s iconic “Cobra” or the jungle hunts of “Predator,” laser sights have made a lasting impression on our imaginations. Chasing the fantasy alongside our childhood heroes, we dove deep into the realm of AR lasers, leaving behind the Hollywood nonsense and highlighting their unique practicality.

June 06, 2023
News: Pistol Brace Era Ends, Weatherby’s new 307 rifles, & new TriStar Matrix Shotguns
Well, the Pistol Brace Era has Ended (at least for now) With the 120-day amnesty period allowed by the ATF to register, modify, turn in, or destroy the estimated 3 million to 40 million large format pistols equipped with stabilizing braces now expired, starting June 1st those who have one could face up to 10… Continue reading News: Pistol Brace Era Ends, Weatherby’s new 307 rifles, & new TriStar Matrix Shotguns

June 04, 2023
Best Shooting Tripods: Hunting & Precision Game Changers
As a hunter and provider, there is no worse feeling than knowing you just made a poor shot on an animal due to a lack of stability. As hunters, we want to make the most ethical shot possible so the animal doesn’t suffer, and that begins with a stable shooting position. That’s why many hunters… Continue reading Best Shooting Tripods: Hunting & Precision Game Changers

May 29, 2023
News: GX4 Safety Notice, New Colt 1908, Ruger LC Charger 5.7, SA Saint Law Folder
Taurus GX4 Safety Notice Taurus says that some (not all) “GX4 pistols assembled and sold only in the United States may, under certain circumstances, discharge when dropped.” If you have one, they advise you to “safely unload and stop using your GX4 IMMEDIATELY. Failure to observe this warning may result in injury or death to… Continue reading News: GX4 Safety Notice, New Colt 1908, Ruger LC Charger 5.7, SA Saint Law Folder

May 26, 2023
Best Shooting Sticks: Elevate Your Hunting Game
While U.S. hunting participation has declined by almost half since the 50s, more than 11 million Americans participate in hunting activities today — taking more than 147 million trips annually — so hunting remains a very popular sport. While often not the first piece of kit that comes to mind when building out your bag,… Continue reading Best Shooting Sticks: Elevate Your Hunting Game

May 23, 2023
Best First Focal Plane (FFP) Scopes
Are you a fan of long-range shooting? Are you constantly putting your targets out further and further? If so, then you need to start thinking about first focal plane (FFP) rife scopes. These scopes are fantastic optics for long-range rifle enthusiasts, and they’ve become far more popular in recent years. There are a lot of… Continue reading Best First Focal Plane (FFP) Scopes

May 23, 2023
News: SW PC M&P 10mm M2.0, a ‘Star Spangled Banger’ Desert Eagle, & Compensated CR920P
Smith & Wesson Performance Center M&P 10mm M2.0 Smith & Wesson introduced their M&P model pistol in 10mm Auto earlier this year and now has a tuned Performance Center model. The new PC M&P 10mm has all the same things the standard model has but uses enhanced features such as a ported 5.6-inch barrel, optic-height… Continue reading News: SW PC M&P 10mm M2.0, a ‘Star Spangled Banger’ Desert Eagle, & Compensated CR920P

May 15, 2023
News: Hellcat Pro Threaded Barrel, SA Operator in 9mm, More Turkish 1911s, & a Ruger Suppressor Host
Hellcat Pro Threaded Barrel Version There are lots of micro-compact 9mm pistols on the market today, with SIG alone having like 30 different variants and subvariants of the P365 and everyone from Stoeger to Smith & Wesson and Kimber to Canik making more. However, none that I can think of have a factory threaded barrel… Continue reading News: Hellcat Pro Threaded Barrel, SA Operator in 9mm, More Turkish 1911s, & a Ruger Suppressor Host

May 08, 2023
News: P210 Carry Custom Works, DBX 57 Stormtrooper, SA Threaded Barrels, & Girsan Negotiator
P210 Carry Custom Works SIG has added a new Custom Works P210 model to its catalog this month. With the Germans and Swiss no longer making the vaunted classic, it has been left to the American branch to keep the flame going on these single-action single-stack 9mm handguns. The newest model takes the rather plain… Continue reading News: P210 Carry Custom Works, DBX 57 Stormtrooper, SA Threaded Barrels, & Girsan Negotiator

May 07, 2023
A Long Term Review of the PSA PA-15
In today’s review, we’ll be diving deep into the world of affordable, American-made firearms as we explore the Palmetto State PA-15 rifle. Known for its balance of value and performance, the PA-15 has become a popular choice for those looking to enter the AR-15 market without breaking the bank — but does it really stand… Continue reading A Long Term Review of the PSA PA-15

May 04, 2023
The Best Gun Trigger Locks in 2023
Proper gun safety is a cornerstone of responsible gun ownership. But sometimes, a gun safe or cabinet won’t fit the bill. Some can take too long to open – preventing you from accessing your weapon in a hurry -and they tend to be both very large and expensive – meaning you need to be ready… Continue reading The Best Gun Trigger Locks in 2023

May 01, 2023
News: Lone Wolf DUSK19 Pistols, Grayguns’ P320 Verdict, & Movie Mausers Hit the Market
Lone Wolf DUSK19 Series Pistols One of the biggest (and original) players in the Glock clone game is looking to carve some more market away from Gaston. At the CANCON event at the Ben Avery Range in Phoenix, Arizona over the weekend, Lone Wolf announced the DUSK19 series of complete 9mm pistols. The new handgun… Continue reading News: Lone Wolf DUSK19 Pistols, Grayguns’ P320 Verdict, & Movie Mausers Hit the Market

April 27, 2023
The Best Side Charging Upper Receivers in 2023
The AR-15, when in well-trained hands, is one of the most capable weapons systems ever designed. That longstanding performance and adoption of the firearm across the globe is a testament to Eugene Stoner‘s engineering brilliance. Of course, no gun is perfect, and with time innovations give every platform an opportunity for an update. One… Continue reading The Best Side Charging Upper Receivers in 2023

April 25, 2023
The Best Hidden Gun Shelves
What are the best hidden gun shelves? As gun owners, we have to strike a balance between making sure our firearms are both inaccessible to unwanted visitors and maintaining quick access to those firearms in the event we need to defend ourselves or our loved ones. A hidden gun shelf can help you achieve both.

April 25, 2023
2023 Roundup: Top M&P 15-22 Suppressors for Every Budget
Smith & Wesson’s M&P 15-22 is a quality firearm that will quickly become anyone’s rimfire favorite. The M&P 15-22 is Smith & Wesson’s .22 variant of the tactical M&P 15 semi-automatic rifle. This firearm is designed for recreational shooting (plinking) as well as small-game hunting. It was modeled after the traditional AR-15 but – thanks… Continue reading 2023 Roundup: Top M&P 15-22 Suppressors for Every Budget

April 24, 2023
The Best .300 Blackout Uppers in 2023
Despite all of the lasers, tech accessories, and modern features, the AR platform is more than half a century old. Originally chambered in .308 as the AR10, Eugene Stoner made a rifle that was chambered for a round that was full of compromises, the 5.56 NATO. To be fair, we certainly like the 5.56mm: it’s… Continue reading The Best .300 Blackout Uppers in 2023

April 21, 2023
The Best Magpul Furniture Kits in 2023
Magpul Industries is, by any objective measure, one of the best and most well-known firearm accessory manufacturers on the planet. They’ve earned that reputation by making ruggedly dependable gear since 1999 – starting with their original product, the Mag Puller, from which they derived their name. Their principal-driven product approach was defined by their founder,… Continue reading The Best Magpul Furniture Kits in 2023

April 18, 2023
The Best AR-15 Lower Parts Kits in 2023
The Russians have a saying – “a man is not a man until he has broken a horse, fathered a child, and built a house.” I’d add “and built an AR-15” to that list. It’s a bit of a right of passage for every firearm enthusiast — one day you’ll decide it’s time to build… Continue reading The Best AR-15 Lower Parts Kits in 2023

April 17, 2023
The 16 Coolest Things We Saw at NRA Show
We hit the aisles at the 152nd NRA Annual Meetings in Indy over the weekend and scoped out all the interesting stuff to talk about. Buckle up and dive in!

April 13, 2023
The Best 6.5 Grendel BCGs in 2023
The 6.5 Grendel is a flat shooting round with little recoil, so many shooters are switching to this caliber in their ARs. However, to change to this caliber, you need to change the upper, including the bolt carrier group (BCG). What are the best 6.5 BCGs? I’m glad you asked because we compiled this list… Continue reading The Best 6.5 Grendel BCGs in 2023

April 12, 2023
The Best Scout Rifles in 2023
The scout rifle, as a concept, came largely from the thinking of Col. Jeff Cooper, a Marine who spent much of his life planning, practicing, and teaching practical shooting. As part of his work, Cooper wanted to create a generalist rifle that would be useful for the real conditions found in hunting big game, especially… Continue reading The Best Scout Rifles in 2023

April 09, 2023
Meet the Viking L5 Deagle!
Magnum Research, which is owned by Kahr, has a new Desert Eagle just in time for the NRA Show. Dubbed the Viking L5, it is a Mark XIX L5 in .50 AE that features a 5-inch barrel with an integral muzzle brake– but is still likely to pack a wallop when it comes to recoil.… Continue reading Meet the Viking L5 Deagle!

April 09, 2023
Two Very Different Auto Ordnance 1911s
On the eve of the NRA Show, where gun makers are easily able to interface with the masses, you see lots of cosmetic changes to existing platforms which are largely made to have something “new” on hand for the event. It usually helps if they are of the red meat variety as well as befitting… Continue reading Two Very Different Auto Ordnance 1911s

April 09, 2023
Glock Finally Makes an American G28
Introduced back in the 1990s along with the G26 in 9mm and the G27 in .40 S&W, the similarly sized Glock 28 was a double stack .380 that runs a modified blowback action. As it was made in Austria and too small for import under the ATF’s requirements for pistols, about the only way folks… Continue reading Glock Finally Makes an American G28

April 09, 2023
LA Gets Tough on Deputy with ‘Assault Rifles’
In a move sure to make zero friends among the boys in blue and tan, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon last week brought charges against an LA County Sheriff’s deputy for “unlawfully possessing an assault rifle and tracer ammunition at his home.” While law enforcement for years enjoyed an exemption to the state’s… Continue reading LA Gets Tough on Deputy with ‘Assault Rifles’

April 09, 2023
The Best Gun Cases in 2023
Gun safes are must-have items for all responsible gun owners, but what defines safes also limits them: they’re large, heavy, and cumbersome. So how are you going to transport your gear when you’re headed to the range? You’re going to need a portable solution to secure your weapons, keep in compliance with local and state… Continue reading The Best Gun Cases in 2023

April 04, 2023
New Ruger Super Wrangler 22 Magnum Convertible
When Ruger Wrangler popped out in 2019, it was a basic no-frills .22 LR single-action revolver styled on their well-liked Single-Six but cheaper. We laid hands on early Wrangler models at NRAAM four years ago and thought it was okay, but wished it had better sights, a longer barrel, and was sold with an option… Continue reading New Ruger Super Wrangler 22 Magnum Convertible

April 04, 2023
Marlin Announces New Ruger-made 336 .30-30
The saga behind Ruger’s reboot of the old Marlin brand like a Phoenix from the ash heap of the old Remington Outdoors has been well-documented in these pages in the past. The TL, DR version is that Ruger bought a lot of parts and all the rights and technical packages in Remington’s bankruptcy sale, then… Continue reading Marlin Announces New Ruger-made 336 .30-30

April 03, 2023
Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro, Now in Platinum
As we reported two weeks ago, Springfield Armory is bringing a lot of new colors to its catalog in time for the upcoming NRA Show later this month. The newest addition to this is a two-toned Hellcat Pro with a matte black frame, sights, surface controls, barrel, and trigger fitted to a slide in Platinum… Continue reading Springfield Armory Hellcat Pro, Now in Platinum

April 01, 2023
The Best AR-15 Upper Receivers in 2023
Arguably one of the most vital elements of the AR-15 is picking the right upper receiver group. After all, your upper provides the lock-up between the bolt and barrel, leaving you with either an accurate and dependable firearm or something that offers little more than consistent frustration. If you want to build an AR for… Continue reading The Best AR-15 Upper Receivers in 2023

March 28, 2023
New: Extar EP45 PCC
Arizona’s Extar USA has been around since 1995 and specializes in making very lightweight guns through the “miracle of polymer injection molding.” A few years back, they introduced the EP9, a simple blowback operation pistol in 9mm that used Glock double stack mags, an M-LOK handguard, and AR-15 style controls, with the gun sold complete… Continue reading New: Extar EP45 PCC

March 28, 2023
For those who want an 1875 Remington in…9mm?
Taylor’s & Company, a Virginia-based outfit that collaborates with a host of Italian replica makers to reproduce historical firearms, has teamed up with Uberti to take a stab at the Remington 1875 single-action but in a much more modern caliber. While the classic wheelguns, which was introduced by Remmy two years after Colt debuted the… Continue reading For those who want an 1875 Remington in…9mm?

March 28, 2023
EAA Goes Tips Up for 380 Fans
EAA, the guys who have been importing all sorts of guns from Europe over the past 35 years or so, are looking to outdo Beretta on one of its staple concepts– the small tip-up barreled pistol. The new MC 14 T is made in Turkey by Girsan and imported by EAA. A 13+1 capacity .380… Continue reading EAA Goes Tips Up for 380 Fans

March 28, 2023
The Best .224 Valkyrie Uppers in 2023
The AR-15 platform in its standard caliber, the 5.56mm NATO, is an excellent rifle, but at 500 yards or so, the round’s limitations become pretty apparent. It was, after all, intended as a multi-role combat rifle and not a long-range tack driver. That’s why, in recent years, people have been going with bigger pills and,… Continue reading The Best .224 Valkyrie Uppers in 2023

March 26, 2023
The Best Long Range AR-15 Uppers in 2023
Long the domain of bolt-action tack drivers, the AR-15 can be a solid long-range performer, so long as you’re using an upper made for hitting targets at range. Granted, you can shoot any gun at long range, but some are certainly better suited for it than others! There are many AR-15 variants, chamberings, and barrel… Continue reading The Best Long Range AR-15 Uppers in 2023

March 25, 2023
Best Rangefinder Binoculars: Budget, Hunting, & More
To find the best rangefinder binoculars, we had a professional hunting guide spend over 20 hours field-testing 12 pairs against his own $2,600 Leica Geovids. After using our collection of test pairs in the mountains and forests of Eastern Oregon, then on a hunting trip in the heat of southern Mexico, he found that the… Continue reading Best Rangefinder Binoculars: Budget, Hunting, & More

March 24, 2023
The Best Hidden Gun Storage in 2023
We’re big on gun safety around here, and for some folks storing a firearm safely also means concealing it. Many people don’t want just firearm storage – they want to hide their guns – often in everyday-looking products or in plain sight. And using a gun safe that looks like furniture can give you the… Continue reading The Best Hidden Gun Storage in 2023

March 23, 2023
The Best Beginner Hunting Rifles in 2023
A hunter is, ultimately, only as good as his or her rifle. Yet finding the best hunting rifle for your next expedition can be a trickier business than you might think. With so many rifles on the market these days, you’re almost inundated with too many choices – and way too many price points –… Continue reading The Best Beginner Hunting Rifles in 2023

March 20, 2023
New from Vortex: Meet the Defender-CCW Micro Dot
Vortex Optics has a new micro red dot in the catalog: Defender CCW. It uses an RMS footprint, offers choices in either a 3 or 6 MOA red dot reticle variants, and has what the company says “delivers the biggest sight window in its class for both-eyes shooting and enhanced peripheral vision.” Auto-Shutoff is at… Continue reading New from Vortex: Meet the Defender-CCW Micro Dot

March 20, 2023
Springfield Armory has lots of new Color Choices
One of the common tropes headed into the annual NRA Show is a bevy of new-ish product announcements which are typically nothing more than gun makers releasing updated colorways to existing product lines. With the NRAAM set for April in Indianapolis, cue the color announcements! Springfield Armory is jumping into the Crayola box with a… Continue reading Springfield Armory has lots of new Color Choices

March 20, 2023
Bear Creek Debuts 10mm, .45 PCCs
North Carolina-based Bear Creek Arsenal has just announced they are branching out from their traditional 5.56 AR fare to blowback-actioned pistol caliber carbines. Using AR styling and Glock-compatible mag wells, the AR-10MM and companion AR-45 platforms are suppressor ready with threaded muzzles. Both use side-charging handles and an 8-ounce buffer. Each will be available in… Continue reading Bear Creek Debuts 10mm, .45 PCCs

March 20, 2023
SIG Buys Israeli Combat Robot Company
Sig Sauer just acquired an Israeli defense company, General Robotics, whose name points you to the fact that the latter is into a lot of stuff like remote weapons stations and unmanned drones. Sig recently used one of GR’s remote stations, paired with their LM338 machine gun, at an event in Nevada just before SHOT… Continue reading SIG Buys Israeli Combat Robot Company

March 20, 2023
The Best 6.5 Grendel Uppers in 2023
The 6.5 Grendel has become one of the more popular choices for long-range shooters in the last several years. When compared to the 5.56mm, the larger round of the 6.5 adds long-range oomph where the 5.56 NATO can fail to impress. In this piece, we’re going to cover some of the best 6.5 Grendel upper… Continue reading The Best 6.5 Grendel Uppers in 2023

March 20, 2023
The Best Bergara Rifles in 2023
Bergara first appeared on the scene in the U.S. in 2013 with small batches of outrageously accurate precision rifles and has gone on to be widely adopted by competitive shooters, law enforcement, and hunters. But who’s behind these fine rifles and which of these quality rifles are for you? We dive deep into the best… Continue reading The Best Bergara Rifles in 2023

March 20, 2023
Mastering the 10mm: Top Pistols and Essential Buying Tips
The 10mm pistol is rapidly becoming more popular, even though the 9mm counterpart is the traditional choice for a self-defense sidearm. 10mm pistols can be just as effective and versatile as 9mm handguns. They can produce fantastic accuracy and stopping power with a relatively compact and comfortable frame. Perhaps because 9mm pistols are more common,… Continue reading Mastering the 10mm: Top Pistols and Essential Buying Tips

March 16, 2023
Episode 96: Situational Awareness with Tim Carroll, Founder of LFX Firearms Training
Tim is the owner of LFX Firearms Training and is the first guest to return to the podcast! Tim joins me to talk about situational awareness. He shares his insights on learning to read people, what to look for when you’re in public, and how force-on-force training can help prepare you for a defensive scenario.

March 13, 2023
Looking for a new 38 Super Comp? MPA has one
Georgia’s MasterPiece Arms has a new DS series race gun in the showroom– one chambered in .38 Super Comp Major. Now, this is not a regular .38 Super but rather intended specifically for IPSC and USPSA competing athletes in Open Division classes. Pistols ready to run such Major Power Factor ammunition are tough to come… Continue reading Looking for a new 38 Super Comp? MPA has one

March 13, 2023
Rock River Armory Goes DMR
Illinois-based Rock River Arms has introduced six new rifles for 2023, all in what they are calling their Operator DMR (Designated Marksman Rifle) series. Four are .308/7.62 NATO AR-10 style rifles while two are .223/5.56 NATO AR-15 pattern guns. Most will run 20-inch chrome-lined barrels (with a 16-inch variant available in both calibers) paired with… Continue reading Rock River Armory Goes DMR

March 13, 2023
Beretta Releases Three New Bobcats
Beretta has been making the Bobcat (Model 21) pistol for the past 40 years and only recently started making them in colors other than black or Inox (aluminum) and in what they call a Covert model that comes with a factory-threaded barrel, the latter something that many Bobcat owners often pay $125-$200 to have done… Continue reading Beretta Releases Three New Bobcats

March 13, 2023
SIG Announces Four New 9mm Pistols
Making sure they have all the niches covered, SIG this month has already announced at least four new 9mm handguns, including three P320 variants. The new P320s on the menu include Navy SEAL Foundation and Marine Raider Foundation commemoratives– a portion of the proceeds from the sale of these models earmarked to support those not-for-profits.… Continue reading SIG Announces Four New 9mm Pistols

March 09, 2023
Episode 95: Nic Kytlica, Shooting Sports Marketing Manager at Leupold & PRS Shooter
Nic is Leupold’s Shooting Sports Marketing Manager and a PRS competitive shooter. He shares how he began working at Leupold and the different hats he’s worn in the company over the years. We discuss the value of having a pro shooting team, working with shooters who travel to compete across the country, and venturing into… Continue reading Episode 95: Nic Kytlica, Shooting Sports Marketing Manager at Leupold & PRS Shooter

March 08, 2023
The Best Truck Gun Racks in 2023
If you regularly travel with a firearm, you know the importance of keeping it secured. Not only to protect the gun, scope, and people inside the vehicle but also to obey local laws. Thankfully, many products can help to meet these requirements. However, some products are significantly better than others — and some designs simply… Continue reading The Best Truck Gun Racks in 2023

March 08, 2023
Savage Adds Driven Hunter to Impulse Straight Pull Line
Savage announced their straight-pull bolt action Impulse series guns a couple of years back and they have, thus far, proved popular enough for the company to introduce additional models. The newest is the Driven Hunter, which runs shorter (18-20 inches depending on the caliber) barrels on a gray synthetic stock. Offered in 6.5 Creedmoor, .308,… Continue reading Savage Adds Driven Hunter to Impulse Straight Pull Line

March 08, 2023
Volquartsen downsizes the VT2 to .22 LR
Rimfire masters Volquartsen introduced their semi-auto VT2 Takedown rifle a little while back in .22 Magnum and .17 HMR, and now have it in .22 LR. While that doesn’t seem like a big deal, keep in mind the rimfire market is something like 80 percent .22 LR, so odds are this variant will by far… Continue reading Volquartsen downsizes the VT2 to .22 LR

March 08, 2023
Sig Sauer Debuts Civilian Variant of New Army Rifle
Last year, Sig Sauer pulled down what stands to be the largest rifle contract in 60 years by winning the Army’s Next Generation Squad Weapon system award. The rifle for the NGSW, the XM7, is now available to consumers in an NFA-compliant semi-auto variant complete with a 16-inch barrel. While the Army’s rifle is chambered… Continue reading Sig Sauer Debuts Civilian Variant of New Army Rifle

March 08, 2023
Cosaint Arms New 2011 CP Series
North Carolina’s Cosaint Arms has been cranking out double stack 2011 style pistols for a minute and their new model, dubbed the CP series, uses a “uniquely designed” ported slide, and barrel that sort of resembles the integrated comps seen on the Sig Sauer P365 XMacro Comp and P320 AXG Comp. The CP series includes… Continue reading Cosaint Arms New 2011 CP Series

March 08, 2023
S&W Introduces Folding 9mm Carbine, the FPC
Smith & Wesson is continuing to claw at the air with new products for 2023 by producing a 9mm pistol caliber carbine. As sort of a no-brainer, it is based on their M&P9 pistol but with a longer 16-inch barrel. Of interest, the carbine, dubbed the FPC, has a left-folding barrel assembly that roughly drops… Continue reading S&W Introduces Folding 9mm Carbine, the FPC

February 28, 2023
SilencerCo Will Paint Your Old Can (or New One)
Utah-based SilencerCo announced something that would seem to be a no-brainer when it comes to suppressor makers: a Custom Paint Project. The concept is simple, with the company’s Cerakote-certified team able to refinish suppressors in one of five different colors for the cost of $89. Ideally, if you have a can that is going back… Continue reading SilencerCo Will Paint Your Old Can (or New One)

February 28, 2023
Beretta Channels King Tut for One-of-a-Kind Shotgun
One thing that Beretta does really well is make unique exhibition-grade shotguns and their latest was presented at the Safari Club International Convention in Nashville, Tennessee last week. No word on the price, which is surely in the mid-six figure range, but it was created to mark the 100th Anniversary of the discovery of King… Continue reading Beretta Channels King Tut for One-of-a-Kind Shotgun

February 28, 2023
Wilson Combat Debuts 16 Models of Customized P365s
Bill Wilson loves to take good platforms and make them better. He’s done it with the 1911, Glock, the P320, and the Beretta 92. His latest effort is a team-up with Sig Sauer to take their basic fire control units and some small parts for the P365 and make them into something superb– the WCP365.… Continue reading Wilson Combat Debuts 16 Models of Customized P365s

February 28, 2023
NYPD Taps Sako for Precision Rifle Needs
Beretta-owned Finnish rifle maker Sako announced last week they are delivering an unspecified quantity of their top-shelf TRG M10 multi-caliber sniper systems to the New York Police Department’s elite response them, the Emergency Service Unit. A bolt-action rifle with a fully adjustable right-folding stock, the TRG M10 is produced in .308 Winchester, .300 Win Mag,… Continue reading NYPD Taps Sako for Precision Rifle Needs

February 28, 2023
New from Daniel Defense: RIII URGs
Daniel Defense debuted their RIII rail system last year. If you know anything about Daniel, you know that they kind of invented the quad rail game, then matured that concept to the RISII series, the latter developed for SOCOM. The RIII s modeled after the now extensively proven RIS II but runs M-LOK slots which… Continue reading New from Daniel Defense: RIII URGs

February 25, 2023
The Best Pistol Safes in 2023
Storing handguns in a pistol safe is a best practice for any gun owner who owns a handgun, and gun owners have a universal responsibility to prevent our firearms from causing injury or harm. A critical piece of this puzzle is ensuring our guns are safely stored when not in use. The meaning of “safely… Continue reading The Best Pistol Safes in 2023

February 24, 2023
The Best 9mm Ammo in 2023
Gun Basics Possibly the most popular centerfire ammunition made today, and almost certainly one of the most prolific, landing on the right 9mm ammo load for home defense, plinking, or carry ammo can sometimes get a little overwhelming. We dive deep into the world of Herr Luger to point you in the right direction for… Continue reading The Best 9mm Ammo in 2023

February 24, 2023
Best Ankle Holsters: Add CCW Versatility
An ankle carry holster lets you carry a gun or backup weapon on your lower leg while keeping your upper torso unencumbered from larger, bulkier holsters. These holsters are designed to make it nearly impossible for people to detect (or print) your firearm, are small, stable, and do their job without jostling or discomfort. We… Continue reading Best Ankle Holsters: Add CCW Versatility

February 20, 2023
More on the Henry Homesteader 9mm PCC
With styling similar to the Prohibition-classic Winchester Model 1907, Henry’s Homesteader 9mm carbine was a sleeper hit at SHOT Show, where it soft-launched last month. Officially shipping now, we got to admit this new blowback-action PCC is interesting and Henry uses an innovative magazine well that has adapters to make it work with Glock, SIG… Continue reading More on the Henry Homesteader 9mm PCC

February 20, 2023
Simonov SKS 9mm PCC?
We’ve seen the image floating around social media last weekend. The one about the Romanian-made Simonov 9mm pistol caliber carbines. They look to have SKS-45 style upper halves and a sort of B&T lower and accept B&T mags. While it almost seems like it could be a real thing– the Cugir Factory in Romania did… Continue reading Simonov SKS 9mm PCC?

February 20, 2023
Pythons in the News
Besides the new 3-inch Colt Python quietly released late last year by the now-CZ-owned gunmaker ($1499 MSRP, available in stainless only) but finally shipping this month, Lipsey’s also has a very upscale version that features premier-grade engravings by Tyler Gun Works and elkhorn stag grips. The ask on the TGW model is $2,400. In other… Continue reading Pythons in the News

February 20, 2023
Dirty Harry, by Way of Germany
Arkansas-based Nighthawk Customs, the importer of fine Korth wheel guns from Germany, has a new and very classic take on the large-framed .44 Magnum six-shooter. As an ode to that gruff fictional San Francisco police inspector, the all-new Korth Callahan model rocks a full 7.5-inch 416R barrel with a vented top rib and carries over-sized… Continue reading Dirty Harry, by Way of Germany

February 16, 2023
The Best .224 Valkyrie Rifles in 2023
The .224 Valkyrie rifle is fairly new to the market, only introduced commercially a few years ago, but it has nonetheless proved appealing to many modern sporting rifle users and competitive shooters – and for good reason. Taking advantage of better ballistics with a flatter trajectory and less drift, the “Valk” is capable of delivering… Continue reading The Best .224 Valkyrie Rifles in 2023

February 14, 2023
Fiocchi Stepping up U.S.-loaded 5.7 Ammo, including Subsonics
Making effective use of its new Ozark, Missouri facility, Fiocchi USA has been diving into the growing niche that is the 5.7x28mm ammo market and is giving consumers what they want. Besides two personal defense loads debuted at SHOT Show in the caliber (35-grain Hyperformance jacketed frangible and the Hyperformance 40-grain hollow point cartridges) the… Continue reading Fiocchi Stepping up U.S.-loaded 5.7 Ammo, including Subsonics

February 14, 2023
Mauser Celebrates 125th Anniversary of the Model 98
No matter whether you call it the Gewehr 98, G98, M98, or just the Model 98, Mauser’s iconic bolt-action rifle design was introduced a century and a quarter ago. With something like 10 million copies of the full-sized rifle and its smaller Karabiner 98 carbine cranked out around the world over the years, this firearms… Continue reading Mauser Celebrates 125th Anniversary of the Model 98

February 14, 2023
CMP Scores Tons of Surplus Military Ammo
Back in 2005, the Civilian Marksmanship Program brought smiles to M1 Garand and M1903 Springfield owners nationwide when they scored a deal to bring in 25 million rounds of military surplus .30-06 ball ammo from Greece, where it had been stockpiled since the 1970s. It took CMP over a decade to sell it all, which… Continue reading CMP Scores Tons of Surplus Military Ammo

February 13, 2023
Six-Figure Beretta ‘Italian Cities’ Paired Shotguns
Hailing from the Pietro Beretta Selection Custom Atelier in Gardone Val Trompia, Italy, are the exquisite “Italian cities” pair of shotguns. Based on the Beretta SO10 EELL over-and-under series— which start at $130,000 in more pedestrian varieties– the one-of-a-kind Cities masterpieces have to be seen to be believed. The pair are filled with ornate scenes… Continue reading Six-Figure Beretta ‘Italian Cities’ Paired Shotguns

February 12, 2023
The Best Pocket Pistols in 2023
According to research by the Crime Prevention Research Center, over 19 million Americans in 2020 have concealed handgun permits – allowing them to carry a gun for personal defense. Of course, this factor doesn’t include adults who carry without a permit in the 15 states that do not require one. One of the more popular… Continue reading The Best Pocket Pistols in 2023

February 11, 2023
The Best Survival Rifles in 2023
The term “survival rifle” can mean different things to different people. For some, it’s a rifle of last resort, others might see it as more of a backpacking or camping firearm designed to be easily carried into, and out of, the great outdoors. Almost everyone agrees that a rifle geared toward excelling in the elements… Continue reading The Best Survival Rifles in 2023

February 06, 2023
Judge rules Marijuana User Gun Ban Unconstitutional
While most states recognize some form of legal recreational or medical marijuana use, it remains unlawful at the federal level and a specific bar to legal gun possession. The ATF’s current Form 4473, used on every over-the-counter gun transfer, even pointedly states that “The use or possession of marijuana remains unlawful under Federal law regardless… Continue reading Judge rules Marijuana User Gun Ban Unconstitutional

February 06, 2023
Aero Precision moves into bolt rifle waters with Solus
While everyone knows Washington-based Aero as a go-to for their AR15/AR10 needs, the company is branching out into a whole new series of bolt-action rifles. Dubbed the Solus, they will use a Remington 700 footprint, carry a sub-MOA guarantee, and be sold as a short action complete rifle system (MSRP $1,600-$1,900), receiver bolt face ($899)… Continue reading Aero Precision moves into bolt rifle waters with Solus

February 06, 2023
SAAMI Approves 360 Buckhammer, 400 Legend, & 7mm PRC
The Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute, better known as SAAMI, just announced they have accepted three new rifle cartridges for industry standardization. The new trio as detailed by the group: 7mm Precision Rifle Cartridge – The 7mm PRC was introduced by Hornady Manufacturing Co. with a 180-grain bullet traveling at a velocity of 2,950… Continue reading SAAMI Approves 360 Buckhammer, 400 Legend, & 7mm PRC