Blackhawk recently announced their latest AR accessories, the new Knoxx AR Polymer Handguards. Blackhawk, a leader in law enforcement and military equipment for over two decades, says this new handguard delivers superior barrel control and heat protection all in a slim and ergonomic profile.
Blackhawk recently announced the release of their latest AR accessory, the new Knoxx AR Polymer Handguards, giving superior barrel control and heat protection in a lightweight ergonomic profile.
Knoxx AR Polymer Handguard Specs
Ambidextrous QD sling mount and MLOK mounting points at the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions for easy customization
Integrated aluminum shield deflects heat away from shooter’s hand
Lightweight polymer construction is textured to promote positive grip, withstands bumps and bruises
The Blackhawk Knoxx AR Polymer Handguard comes in two length options: a carbine and a mid-length model. Both use an integrated front hand stop with light texturing and an aluminum heat shield to give the user a safe but solid and comfortable grip on the rifle.
Available in both carbine and mid-length models, Knoxx AR Handguards use integrated front hand stops with light texturing and an aluminum heat shield to give the shooter a safe, solid, and comfortable grip on the rifle as well as to promote more precise shot placement. The lightweight polymer construction and heat shield also bolster the handguard’s overall durability so it can withstand bumps and bruises in the field or at the range.
A completely ambidextrous quick-detach sling mount gives the shooter more versatility, and MLOK mounting points at the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions make the sling/handguard setup more customizable to match the shooter’s needs.
Making its debut at SHOT Show 2022, the Knoxx AR Polymer Handguard has a completely ambidextrous quick-detach sling mount along with MLOK in the 3, 6 and 9 o’clock positions, shown here in the mid-length.
Blackhawk Knoxx AR Polymer Handguards are made in the USA and have an MSRP of $39.95. The new Knoxx handguards were showcased during the 2022 SHOT Show and will be available at retail in April.
Patti Miller is one of the most awesome females in the tactical/firearm (or any) industry. Imagine a tall, hawt, dangerous Laura Ingalls Wilder type with cool hair and a suppressed blaster and you’ll be getting the idea. What’s interesting is that in addition to being a willing brawler and intrepid adventuress, she’s also an Ent/Ogier level gardener and a truly badass baker.
Cold jacks up a lot of things, including your firearms. (Unless you’re Russian. Read on for clarification). With snow coming down, I think we should all make sure our gear can handle the worst of conditions. Even if you don’t live in an area that gets cold, it’s good to know the limitations of your gear, and Garand Thumb is here to help. GT shows us what could go wrong in the worst-case scenarios with his wide collection of rifles.
In this two-part test, GT will cover his rifles in water and let them freeze. The first part will be a light spray of water, and then in the second, he will douse them each thoroughly. Hopefully, the rifles can stay in fighting condition.
Frozen Rifle Test — Part One
Rifles Participating
HK 416/MR556 5.56
Steyr AUG 5.56
URGI 5.56
Meridian AKM 7.62×39
AK-105 built out by Jim Fuller 5.45×39
Military Block II that hasn’t been cleaned 5.56
Sig MCX 5.56
KAC SR-15 5.56
FN FNC (FAL) 5.56
Galil ACE 5.56
M14 7.62×51
SCAR H 7.62×51
DSA OSW (FAL) 7.62×51
LMT MWS 6.5 Creedmoor
Garand Thumb starts the first test with just a light spray of water over both sides of each firearm. After letting them sit and freeze, he tries to fire five shots out of each rifle.
Spraying the rifles down.
Here are the results for each firearm.
HK 416
The AR-style rifle gets all five shots off but has a little trouble with the safety and ejection port cover. The safety is a bit stiff, but Garand Thumb is able to get it set to fire. The ejection port cover is partially frozen and won’t go down all the way, and thankfully it doesn’t hinder the cycling of the rifle.
Being made in Austria, GT wasn’t expecting any trouble. The AUG has a stiff safety, but that is overcome and it fires all five shots.
The Steyr AUG shows off its cold mountain heritage, firing all five shots.
URGI
The URGI follows next with a surprising outcome. The AR-style rifle has very stiff safety and only fires one shot before a nasty malfunction. The ejection port fails to open, causing the spent casing to get lodged when the BCG tries to chamber a new round. Garand Thumb then discovers that the mag and mag release have frozen when trying to clear the malfunction. After getting the mag out and removing the malfunction, he attempts to put the mag back in, but the catch has not reset. He manually resets the catch and fires the remaining four shots.
The URGI finishes round one firing all five shots even after a rocky start.
Meridian AKM
Starting for the AK rifles is the AKM. The safety came off without any trouble, and it smoothly fires all five shots. I don’t think it’s a surprise at anyone that a Russian rifle does well in the cold.
Russians seem to know how to keep the cold at bay.
AK-105
Next for the AKs is the 105. Like the AKM, it smokes its AR competition and fires all five shots without any hiccups.
Again, the Russians passed the test with flying colors.
Military Block II
Trying to redeem the other AR-style rifles, we have the dirty Block II. Surprisingly, the Block II’s safety has no problems. The uncleaned rifle even fires all five shots without the issues that the other AR platforms experienced.
To GT’s surprise, the dirty Block II passes.
Sig MCX
Now for the Sig MCX. Definitely a surprise to me, the MCX only fires one shot before the action locks back. In his attempt to get the MCX back on track, Garand Thumb runs into the same problem as with the other ARs: the mag and mag release are frozen. He remarks that while the rocking in of the AK mags can be a pain, it doesn’t freeze up like the AR platform. After hitting the mag release with an AK mag, GT finally gets the mag out. Failing to get the bolt to release, he declares that the MCX is down and moves on.
I can honestly say that I was surprised and let down by the MCX.
KAC SR-15
After the failure of the MCX, we have the KAC SR-15. Like the MCX, the SR-15’s bolt locks to the rear after only one shot. Attempting to get the SR-15 working again, Garand Thumb fights the mag release again. Unfortunately, the SR-15 follows in the steps of the MCX, and Thumb is forced to declare it is done.
While the Russians chalked up two wins, the ARs chalked up two losses.
FN FNC (FAL)
Now we get to the rifle GT has been looking forward to, the FN FNC. Garand Thumb is happy to see that the FNC shoots all five shots with no problems.
GT wanted the FNC to do well, and it pulls in a win for the FALs.
Galil ACE
Moving on to the Galil ACE. The safety clicks off easy, and Garand Thumb puts all five rounds down range with no trouble. He says it fires easier than the FNC.
The Galil passed the test in Alaska, so he isn’t surprised with all five shots going downrange.
M14
Now we have the first battle rifle, the M14. The safety comes off with no trouble, but unfortunately, the hammer doesn’t drop after pulling the trigger and is deemed unsafe. After pouring water over the rifle, Garand Thumb clears the firearm but declares it done.
I don’t know exactly what I was expecting from the M14, but that wasn’t it.
SCAR H
The SCAR is up next for the battle rifles. The safety clicks off, but GT runs into a dead trigger after the first shot. The SCAR fails to extract the first round, but the malfunction is cleared after mortaring. The next round has to be manually ejected, but it fires eight more shots after that.
Another rocky start for a non-AK, but the SCAR pulled through at the end.
DSA OSW (FAL)
The last 7.62 battle rifle is the DSA OSW. The safety goes off with relative ease, and the DSA is able to fire all five shots. GT says that is the most surprising test result.
GT is surprised the OSW ran so well. We can chalk up another win for the FALs.
LMT MWS
Last we have the LMT MWS. The LMT’s safety comes off, but it was a little stiff. The LMT fires all five shots with no problems.
Seemingly compensating for the other AR-style rifles, the LMT passes with all five shots fired.
To sum up these test results:
The Frozen Rifle Test winners are the AKs, the FALs, and the Galil. The failures: the SCAR, M14, KAC SR-15, and the MCX.
Frozen Rifle Test — Part Two
With the first test over, Garand Thumb prepares for the more brutal test.
Before starting the second part of the test, he explains why he thinks a few of the guns failed. He thinks the SR-15 might have failed because the ambidextrous bolt release froze. He also feels that he might have done the SCAR dirty by having a battery assist device, so he takes it off in the second test to give a fair shake. The M14 is taken out of the test entirely because it failed utterly in the first test. Another AK-105 is added to the test, but it is chambered in 5.56 instead of 5.45×39.
Garand Thumb goes for almost total immersion in the second part of the test. After letting them get nice and frozen, we see which rifle wins round two.
GT full-on douses the rifles for part two.
Rifles Participating
HK 416/MR556 5.56
Steyr AUG 5.56
URGI 5.56
Meridian AKM 7.62×39
AK-105 built out by Jim Fuller 5.45×39
AK-105 5.56
Military Block II that hasn’t been cleaned 5.56
Sig MCX 5.56
KAC SR-15 5.56
FN FNC (FAL) 5.56
Galil ACE 5.56
SCAR H 7.62×51
DSA OSW (FAL) 7.62×51
LMT MWS 6.5 Creedmoor
Unfortunately, almost all the rifles fail the second test, and the ones that don’t outright fail have their problems. The guns that technically pass the test were the AUG and the AKs. Garand Thumb even has to cut the video down because it takes so long to make sure the failed weapons are rendered safe before moving on.
With a frozen mag, the AUG fails to cycle fully.
The Steyr AUG fires one shot but doesn’t cycle all the way due to its frozen mag. The AKM doesn’t work at first, but it works fine after clearing the bolt’s ice. The 7.62 AK-105 has a frozen mag spring, but that is its only problem. The 5.56 AK-105 locks back after the first shot, but it continues to fire after Garand Thumb works the bolt manually.
It looks like even the Russians can be brought down by too much ice.
Out of the AR platforms, only the 416 and URGI fired. However, there was only one shot before they were locked up from the ice. The FNC also fired only one shot. No other rifles sent rounds downrange.
Having ice in the bolt seems to be the AK’s weakness.
Which rifles pass the second test?
Concluding the test, Garand Thumb grants victory to the AUG and AKs. The AUG did have a frozen mag, but GT admits that if you just gave it a new mag, it would keep running.
These tests have put the rifles through an extreme with worst-case freezing. Garand Thumb says that you probably won’t experience these conditions, but he did this because he wanted to see what would happen. Even though the AR platform rifles failed, he says you shouldn’t just get rid of your AR because your location is what’s important. What works in some places might not work in others and vice versa.
This kind of test makes me want to get out and test my gear. Not really in the same manner as this, but maybe a more practical challenge for my area. Having proper training on your gear will help if you find yourself in bad conditions, so like Garand Thumb says, get trained and know your equipment. “So get out there train become better. Because remember you are the weapon.” – Garand Thumb.
Strike Industries recently announced their new product, the Strike Bipod Grip, which the company says offers versatility and efficiency for the rifle while maintaining a firm grip on the move or a steady stationary platform in the prone position.
Strike Industries recently announced their new rifle accessory, the new Strike Bipod Grip. They say that it offers efficiency and versatility for the shooter while maintaining a solid grip on the move or a steady platform in a prone position.
The Strike Bipod Grip offers a sleek and simple option that is also affordable, according to Strike. There are advantages for an attachment that is both a grip and a bipod in multiple shooting situations and scenarios.
Strike Industries states that navigating in CQB (close quarters battle) the bipod grip combo will benefit those individuals, as well as those outside that are laying prone allowing for steadiness for mid- to long-range shots. For the competition shooter, hunters, and day range users, the bipod grip size and weight will be beneficial for the overall handling and balance of the system.
With various shooting situations and scenarios, there are advantages from an attachment which is both a grip and a bipod. Whether used in CQB or out on the range, this new grip is a lightweight addition to the firearm.
Product Specifications
Length: 4.71 in (119.66 mm)
Width: 1.71 in (43.54 mm)
Height: 1.75 in (44.38 mm)
Weight: 4.60 ounce
The Strike Bipod Grip is easy to install and remove on the 1913 Picatinny rails thanks to the quick detach clamp and a 3-arm knob. The smooth pull mechanism to deploy the bipod legs only requires a light squeeze, while a push up is all that is needed to stow the legs. The angle of the grip on the handrail sits at just under 90 degrees at 89 degrees for optimum comfort for the user.
The new Strike grip is made of a durable lightweight polymer that does not take up a lot of space on the handrail and keeps the weight down for the user.
The Strike Bipod Grip was designed with textured palm and finger areas in addition to the flat sides for easy handling and movement of the firearm. It is made of a durable lightweight polymer, thus giving the user two useful tools in one piece to save rail space without adding any significant amount of weight.
The Strike Bipod Grip was designed so that it is easy to install, and remove, thanks to the Picatinny rail via a quick detach clamp and a three-arm knob. Strike says it is quick to deploy with a small squeeze and stows with a light push. Designed with a textured palm and finger area, it has flat sides for easy handling and maneuverability of the firearm by the user.
The Strike Bipod Grip does have a warning for users, saying that it is designed for casual or light duty shooting use and excessive abuse will damage or break the product so keep that in mind for applications. It comes in with a price tag of $34.95.
So if you didn’t know, earlier this month, right before SHOT, Henry Repeating Arms announced two new lever guns. Although we’ve already tackled the Long Ranger Express, it’s time to address the other new Lever-Action from Henry. Presenting the Lever Action Axe .410, “Not all firearms need to fit neatly into categories like hunting, home protection, or good ol’ backyard plinking.” It seems like Henry is trying their best to provide something that is primarily just a blast to shoot. I’ve always had a soft spot for lever guns, and I am excited to see where this .410 Axe goes.
Photo by @Holtworks
.410 Bore, Never Bored
While the focus of this release seems to be how enjoyable it is, there seems to be some practicality to it. The Axe has a 5-Round capacity of 2 1/2″ shells like larger .410 Shotguns. It also has a loading gate, so you’re constantly at max capacity if you want to be—no need to remove a tube magazine. Henry also uses size as a measure of its practicality. The Axe .410 has a barrel just under 16″ and the total length of the firearm at a hair over 26″. So the Axe can be stored in more places than your average shotgun; it seems like it might be a decent candidate for a trunk gun.
“Classic Henry aesthetic flair meets our hit non-NFA .410 platform in the newly released Brass Axe.” – @Henry_Rifles – Photo by @Holtworks
The muzzle of the Axe is internally threaded for invector chokes, and it comes with a full choke straight out of the box. Additional chokes are available for sale, as well. When it comes to sights, though, the barrel of the Axe is topped with a brass bead front sight. No rails for you tacti-cool operators. I am sure with enough duct tape and epoxy, anything is possible. Although the specifications page does mention that it is drilled and tapped, maybe you won’t need too much epoxy.
You might be wondering why I keep referring to it as the Axe? The “Axe handle” grip on the level gun is what seems to have solidified its name; the bottom of the handle even has the Henry “Cowboy” logo to top off the old west aesthetic.
Extras: Internally threaded for Invector style chokes (Full included), Swivel Studs, 2 1/2″ Shells Only
So this might be your lever-action if you’re in the market for what seems to be a fun plinker or a decent old-timey truck gun. “Simply being fun to pull out of the scabbard and shoot again and again should be a category all its own.” Hopefully, soon I will get hands-on one of these. Until then, if you’re interested in checking out more on the Lever Action Axe .410, feel free to check it on Henry’s website, www.Henryusa.com. The MSRP for the Lever Action Axe .410 Bore is $1,049 and $1,132 for the Brass.
Why is finding a suppressor-ready .45 ACP so complicated? While there are a select-few single actions on store shelves, finding a range-ready polymer-framed .45 is much less common. The Springfield XD-M is a top contender. It’s built for use with a suppressor and it comes in this configuration from the factory.
The Springfield XD-M is the ideal host for a suppressor.
Why .45 ACP?
1911 fans don’t need any convincing. Adding a threaded barrel to a 1911, though, can pose problems. You’ll likely need the assistance of a gunsmith as the 1911 platform, though modular, can still require that parts are hand-fitted to each gun.
.45 ACP ball, unless it is marked +P, is almost always subsonic.
The .45 ACP may not be the fastest round, but it hits hard. The terminal ballistics of the fat ball rounds have proven themselves in combat, tactical applications, and self-defense for more than a century. And the popularity means there are countless varieties of loads and bullet designs to choose from.
But for the XD-M built with a threaded barrel, the .45 ACP has another big benefit. Almost all these loads are subsonic. The threshold for a good loud crack is right around 900 feet per second, and most of the heavier rounds stay below that mark.
The stainless magazines hold 13 rounds of .45 ACP.
The 5.28” barrel on the XD-M is going to provide enough length for the powder to burn up, which increases muzzle velocity, but most of the .45 ACP ball ammo is going to hold right in below the 900 fps mark. And you still have the benefit of running +P ammo, or lighter (and faster) defensive loads, too.
The Springfield Armory XD-M has a loaded chamber indicator, which is a great addition to the platform. If this lever is flat, the chamber is empty.
With these speeds, an XD-M .45 with a silencer should be hearing safe.
Part of what makes the XD-M so stable is the full-length guide rod.
The XD-M has always been a gun that produces solid accuracy. I’ve run them in numerous calibers over almost a decade and I’ve come to expect good things.
When the XD-M is cocked, the stainless pin protrudes out the back of the slide. It is subtle but adds one more way to tell if the gun is ready to fire.
Grip texture on this XD-M hasn’t caught up to some of the other Springfields—like the Hellcat or the XD-S Mod 2—both of which have the more sandpaper-like feel to the grips. But the aggressive tire-tread on the XD-M is still tactile enough that my hand doesn’t shift.
The rear sight is tall, but still has the fast-access three-dot pattern common on defensive handguns. These are excellent sights for use with suppressors.
The suppressor height sights are an added bonus. Why anyone would thread a barrel on a factory gun and not include them seems ridiculous, yet it still happens. These on the XD-M are tall enough to be seen over the side of the Banish 45.
A tall front sight is a must for those running a silencer, but it means you may need to find a special holster to accommodate the height.
The XD-M in .45 ACP comes with three 13-round magazines. This is a respectable capacity for a .45. The 9mm versions hold more, yes—but finding subsonic 9mm isn’t always easy—and when you strip the 9mm of its velocity, the lighter bullets don’t perform as well.
And that, for me, is the appeal here. In terms of foot-pounds of force, a subsonic .45 ACP crushes it. Take two of Remington’s subsonic loads. A 147 grain 9mm round, with a muzzle velocity of 945 FPS (which is right at that threshold for a sonic crack), produces 291 foot-pounds of energy. A 230 grain .45 ACP round leaves the barrel at 830 FPS and has 351 foot-pounds of energy.
The B45 works for 9mm as well, with the right piston.
There’s nothing wrong with a suppressed 9mm. But everything about the .45 ACP seems like it was meant to be suppressed.
Shooting the XD-M
The XD-M has a highly manageable recoil impulse. I find there to be less rise than I experience with a 1911—something I attribute to the ergonomics of the grip. The XD-M in .45 ACP fits in my hand better than a 1911, and the shape of the grip is more rounded and less wide and flat—and that’s before any fine-tuning that can be done with the interchangeable backstraps.
A full magazine through the XD-M without a suppressor. This one-ragged-hole type of grouping is what I’ve come to expect from the XD line.
I’ve been carrying an XD-M Elite in 9mm for months, and I’m faster with that gun than I am with the XD-M in .45 ACP. The 9mm Elite shoots flat and fast. My split times on the .45 are marginally slower, but they’re still proficient. Speed isn’t always everything.
Shooting the Springfield XD-M suppressed
The recoil impulse on the XD-M suppressed with a Banish 45 is hard to describe. Because there’s more mass out on the end of the barrel, there’s not so much muzzle flip. But the muzzle-flip that is there is somewhat whip-like. The muzzle-end of the can goes up more slowly, but motion carries through in like a wave.
The feeling is far easier to control than that description would imply. For me, recoil management on an unsuppressed pistol requires that I keep the muzzle from climbing too high and control the movement back to the target for a follow-up shot.
Five rounds through the Banish 45 on the XD-M .45 ACP. Shot placement is just slightly higher at 25 yards.
I find that a suppressed .45 ACP tends to rise less and dip more so that I’m moving through shots in a more fluid motion. I’m not as fast on movement drills, but I can get by.
And hearing the .45 ACP slap a steel target without the bark of an unmuffled gun is something that never gets old.
The XD-M’s 1:16 barrel is 5.28″ and hammer forged. The thread pitch is .578 x 28, and the whole thing has a Melonite finish.
The Banish .45 can be set up in two lengths. The short version is 6.7”. The longer version is 8.6”. The weight comes in just over nine ounces, or right at 11. Titanium doesn’t weigh much. Neither, though, does the XD-M, which has a polymer frame. With the suppressor, the gun comes in under three pounds (but that’s before you add a full mag).
The trigger guard on the XD-M carries over the tire-tread pattern and has a concave shape for those who really want to get an extra bit of grip with the support hand.
Subsonic ammo is still painfully loud without hearing protection. The Banish .45 in its long configuration pulls 36 DB from the report, making it hearing safe. It isn’t Hollywood quiet. It isn’t as whisper-quiet as some suppressed bolt guns, but it is hearing safe.
Another of the XD-M’s safeties: the trigger shoe with a safety lever. Springfield Armory gets the need for safety and understands that most of us won’t carry a defensive handgun with slide-mounted thumb safeties. Like this, there are no obstacles to overcome in an emergency, yet the design remains safe.
Blowback with the Banish 45 is minimal. As you would with any firearms, you should still wear eye protection. The addition of hearing protection is up to you.
The XD-M’s grip pattern is the only aspect of the design that I’d change. This gun performs incredibly well as is, but could use the Mod 2 treatment.
Why would you want to shoot suppressed?
I’ve always been opposed to these kinds of questions. It’s fun. That’s enough?
But there are other benefits. We all like to hear things. Shooting with a can helps preserve that sense—and even opens up other sounds that you’d never hear when wearing hearing protection.
The mag release on the Springfield XD-M is big enough to find and out of the way enough to prevent accidental drops. It is also ambidextrous.
And shooting suppressed allows you to talk to others more easily. As a teaching tool, a good silencer makes range time much safer.
Silencers are really ideal for hunting. The XD-M isn’t as effective on hogs in the .45 ACP version as it is in the 10mm version, but the .45 ACP is still hell on a pig. This is a harder argument to make, as carrying an unholstered handgun isn’t ideal but it can be done safely and effectively.
Springfield Armory has given the XD-M .45 slide serrations front and rear. The cuts are deep without having aggressively sharp edges.
Home defense is another story altogether. Think about the scenarios we all should train for. The first is the incredibly nuanced skill set needed to clear a house. In an enclosed space, in the dark, you’ll want a light. The Springfield XD-M can do that, too. But if you do fire a shot, or multiple shots, without hearing protection on…. What will that do to your equilibrium? To your ability to communicate? How blinding will the muzzle flash be?
If only someone would build an effective holster for a handgun with a suppressor. Dare to dream.
Let’s go back to the real answer. Why shoot suppressed? Why not shoot suppressed?
My gut tells me that the biggest reason why people don’t is the cost. The threaded barrel and suppressor sights will add a bit to the price tag on the XD-M, but with an MSRP of $673, that cost is hardly prohibitive. And the availability of reliable ammo that is organically subsonic means you won’t have to pay extra for the privilege.
Normally, I’d wax poetic about the flat-top slide. The Melonite finish catches a subdued glare. This can help with basic time to target—almost as a pre-aiming step as you present to the target. But I don’t notice it as readily when shooting suppressed. The Springfield XD-M handles the recoil of the .45 ACP exceptionally well. There’s virtually no blowback from the Banish 45 and the piston attachment keeps the recoil impulse fluid.
The biggest expense will likely be the suppressor and the fun-fee you’ll have to pay to your Uncle Samuel for the stamp.
It’s always exciting to see what’s new in the gun world, but there’s definitely an added layer of excitement when the gun in question comes from a popular gun maker like Smith and Wesson. Among their 2022 offerings is the Smith and Wesson CSX, a 9mm handgun that’s generating a lot of buzz. If you’re interested in finding out what the CSX can do, check out this video from the team over at Shooter’s Resource Channel.
Shooter’s Resource Channel running the Smith and Wesson CSX. (Photo credit: Shooter’s Resource Channel)
What is the Smith and Wesson CSX?
The CSX is an aluminum-alloy pistol with polymer pistol grip inserts. Smith and Wesson designed the backstraps to be interchangeable so shooters can customize the gun’s grip to better fit their hands. It’s chambered in 9mm, has a 12 +1 capacity, and has a micro-sized frame for improved concealability. A 10 +1 capacity magazine is included to further minimize the gun’s profile for concealment. With ambidextrous slide releases and manual safeties, it’s a versatile gun that works well regardless of which hand is your strong side.
The Smith & Wesson CSX ships with a ten and twelve-round magazine. SRC isn’t sure why S&W didn’t just ship two twelve-round mags, though, because he thinks the size difference is so minimal it doesn’t offer any concealment advantage.
What Did Shooter’s Resource Channel Think of the CSX?
Some of Shooter’s Resource Channel’s initial impressions of the Smith and Wesson CSX include the fact that it’s a somewhat heavy gun with a rather stout trigger pull. They are a fan of the steel white dot fights that come standard from the factory and feel the ambidextrous controls are a fantastic feature (we agree).
To find out what else they had to say about the handgun, watch the video:
Overall, the Smith and Wesson CSX seems to be a solid pistol from a respected manufacturer. It should fulfill a niche for concealed carriers looking for a daily carry 9mm with a bit more heft to it, and the way it has interchangeable grips and ambidextrous controls is a huge plus.
The CSX ships with steel white dot sights. (Photo credit: Shooter’s Resource Channel)
More From the Comments Section
YouTubers viewing the video on Shooter’s Resource Channel made some good points about the gun:
RollinOnBBS said, “The trigger should break-in and get smoother, after about 30 days of dry firing with snap caps.” In response to that, Shooter’s Resource Channel said they hoped live-fire would make it an even faster process.
Also, according to RollinOnBBS, “Factory Ruger LCP II HOLSTER is perfect fit. The soft body holster works like a sticky holster for IWB or Pocket carry especially, if you are bigger dude whom wears loose fitting pants with large front pockets.”
MojoMan69 wrote, “A good companion gun if you carry a 2011 like the staccato. But I would wait to see if they will come out with the PC version with maybe a light rail, better trigger and optics ready.”
Are you interested in the Smith and Wesson CSX? Tell us in the comments below.
The Sig P365 soared to popularity basically the second it was launched, offering greater capacity in a smaller package — and that fulfilled a niche a lot of gun owners were interested in. After all, an easily concealed firearm chambered in a capable self-defense caliber is a win, right? Well, the original P365 was a little too small for some gun owners with bigger hands, so Sig responded with the P365XL. In this video review, 1911 Syndicate checks out the Sig P365XL and runs live-fire tests to give an idea of what the gun can do in their hands.
The 1911 Syndicate checks out the Sig P365XL. (Photo credit: 1911 Syndicate)
What are the Sig P365XL Features?
The easiest way to summarize the P365XL is to say it’s a slightly larger version of the original P365, meaning it depends on your hand size when it comes to whether you prefer one over the other. Of course, there’s more to it than that.
Sig designed the P365XL with a stainless steel frame which adds a little weight over polymer designs but also lends durability and good balance to the gun. Even with the steel frame and slide the gun only weighs 20.7 ounces, empty; with a fully loaded magazine this pistol is still small enough to comfortably conceal and carry all day, every day. Aside from the P365XL’s 12 +1 capacity — which does a lot to recommend it — the gun’s trigger is a solid selling point. Right out of the box the trigger is good with a clean break and short reset. And thanks to the solidly-built frame, the already-negligible recoil and muzzle rise of its 9mm chambering is offset so reacquiring targets is no problem at all. Yes, this gun runs well rapid-fire.
Check out the video to find out what the 1911 Syndicate guys think of the Sig P365XL.
Is the SIG P365XL a Good Carry Gun?
Short answer: yes. The slightly longer answer is that many features and performance points have proven the Sig P365XL is a great option for concealed carry:
Compact
Reasonably lightweight
Greater magazine capacity
Good factory trigger
Myriad holster options
Accurate
Easy to conceal
Durable
Reliable
The Sig P365 and P365XL side-by-side for size comparison. (Photo credit: 1911 Syndicate)
Is a Bigger Gun Better?
It really does depend on your own hand size and needs when it comes to deciding if a slightly larger gun is better. Even though it may look like the P365XL is barely any bigger than the P365 — and it’s true, it isn’t a lot larger — that tiny difference matters. For shooters with bigger hands, the under-an-inch size gap affects comfort and accuracy more than you might think. It gives you a little more of that steel real estate to grip. We suggest you go ahead and try out both models when choosing which one fits your needs.
Is the Sig P365XL the gun for you? Watch the video to find out. (Photo credit: 1911 Syndicate)
Do you own a Sig P365 or P365XL? Which model do you prefer? Drop a comment below.
Nosler, Inc. has recently announced the expansion of its product offerings to firearm suppressors. These rifle suppressors reportedly incorporate cutting-edge materials, features, and manufacturing methods and are specifically designed for hunters using modern rifles.
Nosler, Inc recently announced their new product line, the Nosler family of suppressors. These suppressors are designed for hunters using modern rifles.
The new Nosler suppressor lineup includes four suppressors from two different families, a hybrid aluminum/titanium and all-titanium family with 22 caliber and 30 caliber models. Both suppressor lines utilize an innovative modular design that attaches the baffle stack to the blast chamber with an exterior jam nut. The Nosler suppressors are easy to disassemble for maintenance, cleaning, or the replacement of certain parts.
All four models attach via the Nosler Muzzle Brake or direct thread on with the included adapter. The thread adapter is compatible with 5-8×24 (for 30 caliber models) and 1/2×28 (for 22 caliber models) threaded muzzles.
The suppressor line has two separate families in it, the hybrid aluminum/titanium family and then the all-titanium family. Both suppressors are designed in such a way that the baffle stack attaches to the blast baffle with an exterior jam nut.
“Hearing protection is a critical part of shooting firearms safely, but traditional methods such as plugs and muffs can be challenging to use in the field. I’ve used these models for several big game hunts in a variety of conditions, not to mention many range sessions and they have impressed me at every turn. I am confident they will impress you, too.” John Nosler, President.
Hybrid Aluminum/Titanium Suppressors
The hybrid aluminum/titanium family of Nosler suppressor models includes the 22-AlTi (22 caliber) and the 30-AlTi (30 caliber). They are said to be manufactured to offer the same balance of size, weight, and sound mitigation at an attractive price point.
Both models come in at 9 ounces with the 22-AlTi taking noise and weight reduction to another level for all .22 caliber firearms, including 5.56mm rifles. Both models come in black or gray for finishes. The aluminum/titanium body of the SR-30AlTi suppressor minimizes noise and weight, making it ideal any time weight is a factor with overall weight at 9 ounces and only 7.5 inches long.
The Nosler hybrid aluminum/titanium family of suppressors weigh around 9 ounces and are said to be manufactured to offer the same balance of size, weight, and sound mitigation at an attractive price point.
Product Specs
Calibers: 22 cal / 30 cal
Weight: 9.0 oz / 9.2 oz
Length: 7.533 in / 7.963 in
Diameter: 1.740 in / 1.740 in
Colors: Black or Gray for both calibers
All-Titanium Suppressors
The all-titanium Nosler suppressor family includes an SR-22Ti (22 caliber) and the SR-30Ti (up to 30 caliber). This family of suppressors is designed to strike an ideal balance between size, lightweight, exceptional durability, and sound mitigation. Both come in black or gray finishes.
Reportedly incredibly strong and lightweight thanks to all-titanium construction, the SR-30Ti modular suppressor fits all .30 caliber and smaller firearms. The lightweight suppressor comes in at just over 13 ounces and is under 8 inches long.
The Nosler all-titanium suppressor family are designed to strike an ideal balance between size, lightweight, exceptional durability, and sound mitigation. These suppressors come in both 22 caliber and 30 caliber options.
Product Specs
Calibers: 22 cal / 30 cal
Weight: 12.8 oz / 13.1 oz
Length: 7.533 in / 7.963 in
Diameter: 1.740 in
Colors: Black or Gray for both calibers
The new Nosler suppressors MSRP range from just under $650 for the 22-ALTI suppressors to $ $949.99 for the SR-30Ti suppressors.
The Bolt action rifle is a staple in the world of firearms; it served as a stepping stone of progress in creating more and more advanced weapons. But the humble bolt action still serves as a pillar. Most precision rifles are still running some sort of bolt, whether it be a rotating bolt, a straight bolt, or some other form of bolt-action system. The Bolt action is such a storied and well-explored system, so the envelope isn’t always getting pushed substantially. This lack of development might be changing, though. I’d like to help get you acquainted with the Black Collar Arms MBA – The Modern Bolt Action Rifle.
“One day we’ll be able to afford a real model so Jeremy’s face doesn’t keep scaring the customers away. MBA redefines the Modern Bolt Action” – Posted on @BlackCollarArms, photo credit to @FixedSightMedia
Earning your “MBA” – The Modern Bolt Action
The Black Collar Arms MBA is attempting to reformulate and revamp the modern bolt action system. The focus is on a straight pull design that Black Collar Arms describes as revolutionary because of how accurate, lightweight, quick it performs. There also seems to be a substantial focus on the rifle’s modularity and ease of use. It appears that they are confident that this will be a colossal leap in designing modern Bolt Actions.
“@Harleywood2a cycles a prototype MBA! Please note: this prototype MBA has all of the mechanisms for primary extraction and locking of the carrier into the upper removed. We weren’t ready to show that off, in part because this proto is 3 generations behind current (it’s the good-looking one). The bolt handle rocks about 25 degrees. When you go to pull it out of battery and the handle rocks rearward, that levers the carrier rearward and provides huge mechanical advantage for primary extraction (popping the case free from the chamber). When you return the gun to battery and the handle rocks forward again, it locks the carrier into the upper receiver. This prototype has a rocking handle but it isn’t connected to anything — no primary extraction or in-battery locking components are installed here.” – Video credit to @BlackCollarArms
Black Collar Arms is late in the development and prototyping stage in the creation of the Modern Bolt Action rifle. Fortunately, they’ve been pretty upfront with the development, being fairly public on both the MBA’s homepage and their various social media accounts. You can actually reserve one right now ahead of time if you’re interested in pre-ordering. But we will tackle that again here in a little bit.
“Straight Pull: significantly faster and smoother than a traditional, turn-bolt firearm, the linear motion of a straight pull also keeps you dead on target. Eliminating the sideways rotational force required to unlock and lock a turn bolt means no fighting your gun to keep it level. No unnecessary hand movement, no unnecessary gun movement. Just fast, smooth precision.” – Posted on @BlackCollarArms, photo credit to @FixedSightMedia
Functional Featherweight Firearm
One of the more impressive features that have been shown off so far in the MBA’s development is how much the thing weighs. The MBA is currently a 6lb rifle that’s 2.72 kilograms for those across the pond. I specify currently because Black Collar Arms seems confident that’s not going to be the lightest the MBA will weigh in. Their motto straight from their homepage is “MBA trims the fat, so you’re ready when it counts.”
“We understand how MBA might appear like a manual action AR at first glance, or that it’s easy enough to try and dismiss MBA as such, but that simply isn’t the case…” – Photo credit to @BlackCollarArms
Modular & Modern Bolt Action Rifle
Like I mentioned earlier in the article, one of the focuses in the evolution of the bolt action rifle that Black Collar Arms was trying to achieve was modularity. Based on everything I’ve seen from them, they can’t help but illustrate how modular this gun is supposed to be. It’s even one of the first things to mention on the landing page for the MBA “AR configurability in a bolt gun.” The MBA’s upper & lower receivers are both a proprietary design, as well as the custom straight pull action and bolt carrier. Every other part or peripherals are all traditional AR parts that are much more readily available. “Right out of the gate, literally, thousands of MBA configuration options are waiting.” – Black Collar Arms.
“I KNOW! Blew our minds, too, to see that @el_blanco_jorge can Cerakote plain black. After a year or so of doing all of our camo and amazing theme and meme guns, we asked him to spray this MBA prototype black. And he did it! Looks great, George. MBA lower, BTW, is 7.0 ounces and if we tweak it from here it’ll only get lighter.” – Photo credit to @BlackCollarArms
According to their website, the MBA runs AR-15 triggers, AR-10 magazines, AR-15 grips, Picatinny rail attachments on the rear rail, AR-15 magazine releases, and AR-15 safety assembly. It also has a fungible optic rail that allows you to switch between DPMS High and DPMS Low AR-10 Handguards. Supposedly they have more optic mount accessories in the works for the future.
“Purpose-Built Action and Receivers: MBA is not a manually-operated AR-10. We have engineered an entirely new operating system that provides powerful primary extraction and in-battery locking mechanisms with an ideally-placed bolt handle for the fastest possible cycling.” – Photo credit to @BlackCollarArms
The rifle also runs AR-10 Barrels, specifically a DPMS AR-10 barrel. So you have plenty of options to choose from if you decide to build one of these bolt guns out. Keep in mind that if you’re buying barrels, it doesn’t need a gas port since it’s a straight bolt. So if you’re going custom, make sure you ask nicely, or you’re buying built that you block the port! Finally, the rifle also uses AR-10 Bolt Heads and cam pins.
Build-a-bolt-action!
According to Black Collar Arms, the process to build an MBA is going to be easier than making a more traditional AR. This is because the MBA kit comes with all the necessary parts, and the rest is a choose your own adventure with the information they’ve given you. Indeed, a ballistic nerds fantasy. So, hopefully, you’ve been keeping all those extra triggers, stocks, and assorted knobs; it’s time to build your precision lego gun.
“MBA’s upper and lower receivers are completely unique as is the bolt carrier and the mechanisms that provide primary extraction and lock the carrier into the upper when in battery. When you pull the bolt handle rearward, it rocks about 25 degrees and it levers itself out of the upper providing you a huge mechanical advantage for primary extraction” – Photo credit to @BlackCollarArms
Premade Precision & Constancy
Black Collar Arms will also be doing complete MBAs. They’re coming out of the shop with barrel extension paired with a match-grade barrel and a bolt head to compliment. This is all using their own straight-pull mechanism like we previously discussed. Based on what I’ve read, the point is being driven home that this isn’t just a match gun; It’s specifically mentioned that “MBA is at home on the hunt, the range, and the mission. Whether that means you’re in a blind, on a mountain, or overseas, your rifle’s reliability is paramount.” They want to ensure precision, reliability, and repeatability are a cinch.
“Two-Piece Receiver System: bedding blocks and recoil lugs integral to upper and lower ensures rock-solid, flawless repeatability. Easily swappable upper assembly allows for rapid caliber changes with sighted-in optic.” – Photo Credit to @BlackCollarArms
The Gist From The Gunsmiths on the MBA
Here’s an excerpt of what Black Collar Arm’s had to say about the MBA and why they think its features set it apart.
“Straight Pull: significantly faster and smoother than a traditional, turn-bolt firearm, the linear motion of a straight pull also keeps you dead on target. Eliminating the sideways rotational force required to unlock and lock a turn bolt means no fighting your gun to keep it level. No unnecessary hand movement, no unnecessary gun movement. Just fast, smooth precision.
Two-Piece Receiver System: bedding blocks and recoil lugs integral to upper and lower ensures rock-solid, flawless repeatability. Easily swappable upper assembly allows for rapid caliber changes with a sighted-in optic.
Purpose-Built Action: MBA is not a manually-operated AR-10. We have engineered an entirely new operating system that provides powerful primary extraction and in-battery locking mechanisms with an ideally-placed bolt handle for the fastest possible cycling.”
Photo credit to @BlackCollarArms
It seems that Black Collar Arms is just getting started; hopefully, they genuinely do push the envelope; a little competition never hurt anyone. They’re already discussing making more versions of the MBA, licensed variants to different manufacturers, new calibers and conversions, and accessory mounting systems. Hopefully, they don’t bite off more than they can chew; the only way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time.
Reserving MBA Rifles
So if this project has piqued your interest at all, they’re doing pre-orders now. In fact, they’re doing MBAs with limited serial numbers and special bags. Apparently, founders also get behind-the-scenes access in the creation process, including: “update emails, behind-the-scenes photos, insider information, and access to a reservation concierge.”
“MBA redefines the Modern Bolt Action.” – Photo Credit to @BlackCollarArms
The MBA – Modern Bolt Action is supposed to ship later this year, the reservation price is $250, and the final price will vary depending on what options you pick. According to Black Collar Arms, the complete rifles will run you an estimated $2,500. If you’re interested, check out more at www.blackcollararms.com/mba-development/
SOUSA Optics recently announced the latest optic for discrete carry, the DARC Micro Pistol Dot. The new DARC Micro pistol dot reportedly offers superb magnification without the obvious bulk.
SOUSA Optics recently announced their newest red dot optic, the DARC Micro Pistol Dot. DARC, short for Discrete Advanced Reflex Concealment, is said to combine precision and durability without the bulk of the traditional red dot.
SOUSA Optics, known as American designers and manufacturers of precision aiming devices and firearm accessories, brings the new DARC to market. DARC, short for Discrete Advanced Reflex Concealment combines precision and durability without the bulk of traditional red dots.
SOUSA says that the DARC Micro Pistol Dot’s compact design can handle the abuse of being mounted to any pistol while maintaining a consistent point of impact. They say that the DARC is ideal for a single stack and concealed carry pistols, and should do well in competition shooting, self-defense, and all other aiming needs.
The DARC Micro Pistol Dot is made of lightweight aluminum and has a matte black finish. Even with the battery installed, the DARC only weighs 19 ounces.
The 1x magnification, scratch-resistant, hydrophobic coated glass lens on the DARC features an Advanced LED Technol lighting system with a 3 MOA dot for precise aiming. The micro pistol dot automatically adjusts to the surrounding light levels and has a manual override for individual preferences, with ten brightness settings to choose from. The DARC is night vision compatible with two night vision settings.
The DARC has an always-on battery life of between two and three years with average use and four years in dark storage. The DARC runs on a CR2032 battery and has a 12-hour auto-shutoff built-in for the night vision settings.
With ten different brightness settings, including a manual override, the always-on optic has a two to three-year lifespan for the battery or four years in a dark setting.
DARC Micro Pistol Dot Specs
Glass Lens w/ NV compatible hard coating, anti-reflection, and hydrophobic properties
Strong aluminum housing w/ matte black finish
12-hour auto shut off
10 brightness settings
2 night vision settings
Automatic brightness w/ manual override
Fits factory micro pistol cut mounts and a wide range of 3rd party mounts
Includes 2 sets of screws to fit Sig® P365 and Glock®
ASW (Absolute Satisfaction Warranty) Guarantee
The body of the DARC Micro Pistol Dot is matte black made from lightweight aluminum. Thanks to the aluminum housing, it weighs just a hair over 19 ounces with the battery installed. The small footprint means that the DARC is 1.6 inches long and just under an inch tall and wide.
The small size of the DARC Micro Pistol Dot means that installation is a breeze, and it fits directly in the factory slide cuts for the Springfield Hellcat, Sig P365, and Glock 43/48 MOS with no adapter plate needed, thus adding to the low profile of the optic. Additionally, the low mounting helps with co-witnessing with the stock iron sights. Not only that, but the DARC is compatible with a variety of third-party mounts for other applications.
The micro sizing of the DARC allows for a direct mounting into existing cuts on the Springfield Hellcat, Sig P365, and Glock 43/48 pistols. The DARC can also be mounted on a variety of third-party mounts for other uses.
