Looking for a new truck gun, home defense firearm, or range gun? The latest from Smith & Wesson checks all those boxes and more. It’s the Smith & Wesson M&P FPC, a pistol caliber carbine boasting a host of features, all designed to improve performance and versatility. The M&P FPC is chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum and well suited to a broad range of uses. Interested? Read on.
The Smith & Wesson M&P FPC is a pistol caliber carbine chambered in 9mm. (Photo credit: Smith & Wesson)
Smith & Wesson states the M&P FPC beautifully showcases the company’s new, compact, folding design. Thanks to the way the gun is designed to fold, it’s even easier to transport or tuck away in tighter spaces, such as for use as a truck gun.
The gun ships with one 17-round and two 23-round magazines, giving shooters options right out of the box. There’s no scrambling to find a magazine with this gun, either, thanks to storage space for mags within the stock that features a quick-release latch. With the M&P FPC, reloads are even faster, and you have the ability to always have a spare mag on hand when you need it most.
The stock is designed to be not only comfortable and functional but versatile, thanks to storage capabilities. (Photo credit: Smith & Wesson)
This is a gun that offers fantastic cross-compatibility, too. According to the gun maker, the M&P FPC is compatible with M&P full-size and compact pistol double-stack magazines, making it even more versatile. In addition, every gun ships with a carrying bag with a variety of storage options and Velcro straps for security and accessibility.
The gun folds to be more compact for easier transport and portability. (Photo credit: Smith & Wesson)
Features of the Smith & Wesson M&P FPC include:
9mm chambering.
Ships with both 17 and 23-round magazines.
Folding design for portability and storage.
Compatible with compact and full-size double-stack M&P pistol magazines.
16.25-inch barrel.
Blowback action.
Threaded barrel for easy addition of muzzle devices.
Picatinny rail runs length of the handguard for easy addition of optics and magnifiers.
M-LOK compatible handguard for aftermarket accessories such as lights and lasers.
A Picatinny rail and M-LOK compatible handguard make it easy to add aftermarket accessories. (Photo credit: Smith & Wesson)
This is a purpose-driven gun with fantastic applications for self-defense use. And, of course, it’s also a great option for range use and could even be used to hunt pests and varmints.
MSRP for the Smith & Wesson M&P FPC is set at $659.00.
Pistols in 10mm are quickly taking over the market allowing shooters to have a pistol that they can hunt with or have as a backup gun while out in the woods. While most 10mm shooters care about Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) due to the need for a cartridge that expands, there is still a need for 10mm target ammo for practicing with the firearm. This ammo needs to shoot with zero malfunctions and stay consistent in your gun. CCI Blazer is a great option, in brass cased 10mm 180gr Full Metal Jacket (FMJ).
CCI Blazer
CCI Blazer has always been a go-to when it comes to target ammo for pistols. It is trustworthy with a great price tag. It is also surprisingly well stocked throughout stores and online retailers, even in this day and age with the ammo struggle.
Price
A box of 50 rounds of CCI Blazer Brass 10mm Auto Ammo 180gr FMJ is $29.99 at GunMag Warehouse which puts it at less than $0.60 a round. Other retailers are showing $39.99 a box currently.
Specs
Brand: CCI
Caliber: 10mm Auto
Bullet Weight: 180 Grain
Muzzle Velocity: 1200 FPS
Applications: Target
Material: Brass
Round Count: 50
The CCI 10mm Auto has always shown consistent primer seating and bullet seating. The powder ratios have shown consistent with good groupings and no malfunctions.
CCI Blazer 10mm Auto Review
Mostly, I shoot CCI blazer ammo when it comes to 9mm things such as USPSA or 2-Gun matches. I haven’t had one malfunction due to ammo and I’ve been shooting their 9mm 115gr and 124gr 9mm since I started shooting pistol matches, which was about six years ago. I stick to brass-cased rounds, as I just don’t trust aluminum-cased 9mm from anyone.
I’ve been using the CCI Blazer 10mm Auto since I received my Sig Sauer P320-XTen pistol a couple of months ago and have not had one malfunction.
The Groups
Target ammunition is usually used for practicing with your firearm, shooting drills, and shooting close-range USPSA/IDPA matches. This doesn’t mean that you should skimp on ammo quality though. Target ammunition that can group and shoot without malfunction is still needed for these uses.
It was already verified that the CCI Blazer 10mm shoots without malfunction however the grouping wasn’t verified. To verify this I shot a couple of groups at seven yards with my iron-sighted Sig P320-XTen.
These two groups were performed at 7yds with CCI 10mm Auto 180gr ammo and a SIG P320-Xten. The ammo performed without malfunction and groups stayed in the black. This shows that this target-shooting ammo can stay consistent in load and performance.
10mm Drills for the Indoor Range
Other than grouping drills there are also other drills that can be completed in an indoor range inside 25 yds with a single target. As most indoor ranges don’t allow drawing from the holster, these won’t include holster draws. These drills will help you learn recoil management with a 10mm and just get some reps in with your firearm.
Bill Drill
This one is simple but can show a lot of issues, such as time management problems and trigger freeze. This drill can be done with or without a holster. The goal is to keep all six rounds within the A box of the target under time.
To start, place your target at seven yards and start with the pistol on tape/bench ready. You can move the target in close such as three yards if this is your first bill drill and you haven’t placed all six rounds inside of the A box.
On the beep, fire six rounds at the target under time. The trick is to go fast, with well-placed shots.
Obviously, the recoil with 10mm makes this a little spicier.
Dot Torture
This drill is often used to warm up before other drills. The specific target for this drill has multiple dots, each instructing you to shoot the dot a certain way. For example, shoot five shots weak hand, or fire one round on this dot and another round on the second dot in one iteration. Doing this with your 10mm gun will really show where your weak points are when dealing with a larger cartridge.
The Dot Torture Target can be downloaded on pistol-training.com or purchased on cardstock in a multitude of places. Just give it a quick google search.
Doubles Drill
The Doubles Drill by Ben Stoeger has you shooting two rapid-fire shots just as you would in a USPSA match. It can be done with one target at an indoor range with no holster draws.
Other CCI Ammo Options
CCI is known for its primers and its ammunition. In the reloading game, CCI primers are slowly coming back to the shelf in pistol, shotgun, and small/large rifle. .22LR is another popular CCI product that comes in many different options. Blazer ammunition specifically is offered in many different calibers and grain weights.
9MM
380 Auto
357 Magnum
38 Special
40 Smith and Wesson
32 Auto
10mm Auto
30 Super Carry
45 Colt
44 Special
Case Type and Reloaded Ammunition
When it comes to pistol ammo, even if you do not choose CCI Blazer Ammo, it is best to stick with brass case ammunition that is not reloaded. Many people are selling reloaded handgun ammunition online and it is just not worth the risk as many things can still go wrong. Bullets might not be properly seated, too much powder could be dropped into the case, there could be worn primer pockets or the primer might not be fully seated. As far as the case material, brass is just more durable and gives fewer issues across the board. Is a broken gun or injury worth it for $.05 savings per round?
Carrying a handgun on your body requires the correct holster. Without the right holster, your gun might not be properly retained, positioned, or protected. If you’re concealing it, even more factors come into play. Going a step further, if your carry gun has a weapon-mounted light on it, your holster needs are even more specific. The PHLster Floodlight 2 is a holster made for use with certain weapon-mounted lights, and it provides the perfect marriage of function and form. This is a holster that isn’t only effective, it’s comfortable.
The PHLster Floodlight 2 holster boasts a number of improved features. (Photo credit: PHLster)
PHLster states that the Floodlight2 is made using superior materials; the same rugged plastic as pistol frames and rifle stocks. This holster design is one described by the holster maker as “future-proof” meaning Floodlight users can get use out of their holster for years to come. This is largely thanks to the plastic used in its construction which extends its lifespan significantly.
The Floodlight 2 has numerous improved features such as the use of DCC Mod4 1.5 clips for standard belt attachment. The clips are extremely high-quality and included on the Floodlight 2 at a lower price than if they were to be added to the previous model, making the new design an even better option for gun owners.
The holster is available in four colors including the pictured Charcoal. (Photo credit: PHLster)
Other features include PHLster’s patent-pending ComfortScape technology, a system of external ribs made to feel like a single, smooth, organic shape against the user’s skin. This technology not only improves concealment, but it’s also a fantastic enhancement for all-day wear thanks to the passive moisture and heat management the ribbing provides.
The Floodlight2 is offered for TLR-1 and X300U lights. Four colors are available: Charcoal, Tundra, Sage, and Earth.
The PHLster Lightbearing Enigma provides gun owners with a gun belt…with no need for a gun belt. It’s truly innovative. (Photo credit: PHLster)
Another addition to the PHLster family of holsters is the Lightbearing Enigma, a concealed carry system designed for comfort and incredible versatility. The faceplate is made for compatibility with the Floodlight 2, making the holster and system combo ideal for dedicated gun owners. With the Lightbearing Enigma, you can conceal your handgun with a weapon-mounted light with no need to hunt for a gun belt or fuss over concealment layers. The Enigma system provides the ultimate in concealability, and all-in-one easy-to-use package.
MSRP for the PHLster Floodlight 2 is set at $138 while the Lightbearing Enigma varies by specific features selected.
“Yellowstone” is a wildly popular drama that has spurred two prequel stories that are becoming just as popular as the original. The first to arrive was “1883,” telling the story of James Dutton and his family making the trek across the country from Texas to the Montana Territory, where they ultimately settle. Obviously, firearms are a part of the story, considering the setting and plot, so we’re going to take a look at the guns used in “1883.”
This is by no means a full list of all the firearms in the series. There are some that go by too quickly to get a good look at and some are just straight-up non-firing replicas. But it’s no secret Hollywood doesn’t always get things correct when it comes to historical accuracy and firearms. Let’s take a look at the major firearms of the “1883: A Yellowstone Origin Story” and see what the show creators got right and wrong along the way.
“1883” follows the story of James Dutton and his family as they make the journey across the country to become settlers in Montana. Firearms were used throughout the show, like the Winchester 1873 Short Rifle shown above so varying degrees of accuracy. (Photo credit: 1883/Paramount Global)
Rifles
The series includes some iconic rifles, if not entirely period-correct. Let’s take a look.
Winchester 1866
The first rifle to bear the Winchester brand, the 1866 lever-action repeating rifle was known as the “Yellowboy” thanks to the bright brass receiver. The 1866 YellowBoy was an improvement from the earlier Henry toggle-linkage action but included important improvements such as a closed magazine tube and a wooden forearm.
The rifle was used by several nations in the late 1800s, so it is no surprise that it made its appearance in “1883” employed by Pinkerton Agent Thomas, who was one of the two men that were hired to help German immigrants on their journey westward. The repeating rifle was originally chambered in .44 Henry rimfire, but based on the ammo in the character’s bandolier, it looks like a centerfire conversion of the rifle, which was not uncommon. The rifle was available in a variety of special order configurations so it makes sense in the show.
The Model 1866 Yellowboy rifle got its name from the bright brass receiver. This was a popular firearm chambered in .44 Henry, but looks to be a conversion in the show. Those did exist at the time so the show is in line with history on this one. (Photo credit: 1883/Paramount Global)
The rifle would be an easy choice for shooters of the era based on the variety of configurations alone, but with the addition of the King spring-loading gate on the right side of the rifle. This allowed for extra shots to be carried, and faster and easier reloads, and with the extra wooden forend stock the rifle was more stable to shoot and easier to handle. The rifle is still popular today with cowboy recreators and collectors alike.
Winchester 1873
With the nickname of “the gun that won the West,” the show would be seriously lacking if the Winchester 1873 rile did not appear at least somewhat regularly. Within the show, the Dutton family is shown with a few different versions of the Model 1873 rifle, which is right in line with history. The rifle was a popular choice across the West, used by indigenous peoples and settlers alike.
The Model 1873 from Winchester was an improved model of the 1866 repeating rifle. The Winchester Model 1873 rifle was chambered in pistol calibers: .38-40, .32-20, and .44-40. Much like the Model 1866, the Model 1873 was available in many special order configurations for customers to order.
Within “1883,” the Dutton family is shown to carry a few different models. One was the Winchester 1873 Short Rifle that looks to have a button magazine and a round barrel. The other Model 1873 rifle is an octagon-barreled rifle with a full-length magazine. Another version that stands out is the rifle carried by one of the indigenous people in the opening scene of the series that has been decorated in the tack of the carrier, which was popular for many people through the West during the time the series is set.
Winchester 1885
One of the biggest errors comes with the appearance of the Winchester 1885 High Wall rifle, especially since the rifle wasn’t in production until a few years after when the series is said to take place. The Winchester 1885 High Wall was a single-shot rifle that was well suited for long-range shooting or when harvesting large game.
The Winchester 1885 was available in both a High Wall and Low Wall variants, with the High Wall intended for higher-power rounds and the Low Wall designed for, you guessed it, lower-powered rounds. The rifle’s predecessor, the 1879 Browning, was being developed in Browning’s Utah shop a few years before the series is set, but it still makes for an impressive rifle.
The Model 1885 High Wall from Winchester is a major glare for accuracy. This rifle did not exist at the time the series is set, by a few years. Still, a cool rifle to see though. (Photo credit: 1883/Paramount Global)
In the series, Dutton’s Winchester 1885 rifle is topped with a long Malcolm scope. The Malcom company, one of the oldest names in American scopes, gained popularity during the Civil War with its 4X-8X telescopic sights. By the time the show is set, most of the Malcolm scopes were ¾” in diameter and ranged from 14” to 30” long, which looks like what shows up in “1883.” Some commenters on the series have stated that other models, such as the Remington Rolling Block or Sharps 1874, might have been more consistent with the time period instead, both of which do make other appearances in other episodes.
Handguns
Colt Single Action Variants
The Colt Single Action Army revolver is a Hollywood favorite, and “1883” is no exception. Shown heavily throughout the series, the Colt Single Action revolver is said to be the most American gun of all time and a true symbol of the Old West. With so many in circulation by the early 1880s, the prevalence of the revolver is very accurate. The Colt was the first reliable mass-produced revolver with a metallic cartridge cylinder.
Many versions of the Colt Single Action Army revolver appear in the series. The revolver shown above is the “calvary” model, which is in line with the character of Shea Brennan as a Civil War veteran. (Photo credit: 1883/Paramount Global)
The Colt Single Action revolver had many variants: the Civilian, Artillery, Cavalry, and Sheriff models just to name a few. With the abundance of revolver models, and at the price point, it makes sense it would be used by many veterans of the war and folks in the West as well. Especially given that the cavalry had issued the revolver in pairs, it is accurate that Dutton’s character would have two. An added advantage of having two is the faster reload, like Wild Bill Cody and John Westley Hardin would attest.
The Colt Single Action Army revolver was employed by many of the characters on the show from Dutton’s 17-year-old daughter to the aging Shea Brennan character played by Sam Elliott, with some characters carrying a pair of revolvers. The various carrying displays of the revolvers might be a bit creative, but the sheer number of handguns in the series seems to be spot on.
Model 1860 Army Richards-Mason
In arguably one of the most heart-wrenching scenes of the series, James Dutton’s sister is overcome with grief after her daughter is killed in an altercation with bandits outside of Fort Worth. In a scene filled with emotion, Claire ends her life at the grave of her daughter, with the help of what is said to be the Model 1860 Army Richards-Mason style conversion revolver. While the firearm of choice might not have been what some Western settlers would have used, it demonstrates the hard life that many of them faced, or chose to not face, as the case would be.
In a heartbreaking scene, James Dutton’s sister, Claire, decides to end her suffering after losing her daughter in a bandit raid outside of Fort Worth. The handgun shown in the series is most likely a replica based on key features missing or in different locations than on the original. (Photo credit: 1883/Paramount Global)
The Model 1860 Army Richard-Mason revolvers, sometimes called the Avenging Angel, originally had ejectors fitted on the right side of the barrel, whereas the revolver depicted in the series did not. The series showed the revolver with a loading lever under the barrel, something that the original did not have. The revolver was commonly referred to as conversion, as the platform used a combination of surplus percussion parts and new parts to make up the assembly by Colt. The revolver in the series is most likely a replica.
Old West Shotguns
When most folks think of the guns that won the west, they usually think of the Colt revolver or a Winchester repeating rifle. Not too many think of double-barreled shotguns, a firearm that some would argue actually won the west. The platform was a reliable and versatile weapon that was used heavily in self-defense and hunting. In the series, the Dutton family, and other characters, use shotguns in both roles quite often.
The shotgun was just as prevalent as the rifle or revolver in the west so it makes sense it would play a pivotal role in the series. While most shotguns had a 26″ or longer barrel, the Coach Gun has a shorter barrel and was used exactly as depicted in the series. (Photo credit: 1883/Paramount Global)
The shotgun was just as affordable as other firearms for the settlers and was used readily. One shotgun that is seen is the Colt Model 1878. In the series, there are a lot of side-by-side shotguns wielded, and most shotguns (or scatterguns) would have long barrels close to 26” long or more. There were shorter shotguns available, like the “coach gun” that is used early in the series by James Dutton, that were used to protect freight wagons, stagecoaches, and trains through dangerous territory.
Conclusion
There certainly are some glaring issues with some firearms in “1883: A Yellowstone Origin Story,” but for the most part, the firearms seem to be accurately portrayed. Hollywood has gotten better over the years with firearms representation, so it was nice to see it happening in this series. The next part of the origin story is “1923,” so it will be interesting to see how firearms are portrayed in that series.
Looking for a new truck gun, home defense firearm, or range gun? The latest from Smith & Wesson checks all those boxes and more. It’s the Smith & Wesson M&P FPC, a pistol caliber carbine boasting a host of features, all designed to improve performance and versatility. The M&P FPC is chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum and well suited to a broad range of uses. Interested? Read on.
The Smith & Wesson M&P FPC is a pistol caliber carbine chambered in 9mm. (Photo credit: Smith & Wesson)
Smith & Wesson states the M&P FPC beautifully showcases the company’s new, compact, folding design. Thanks to the way the gun is designed to fold, it’s even easier to transport or tuck away in tighter spaces, such as for use as a truck gun.
The gun ships with one 17-round and two 23-round magazines, giving shooters options right out of the box. There’s no scrambling to find a magazine with this gun, either, thanks to storage space for mags within the stock that features a quick-release latch. With the M&P FPC, reloads are even faster, and you have the ability to always have a spare mag on hand when you need it most.
The stock is designed to be not only comfortable and functional but versatile, thanks to storage capabilities. (Photo credit: Smith & Wesson)
This is a gun that offers fantastic cross-compatibility, too. According to the gun maker, the M&P FPC is compatible with M&P full-size and compact pistol double-stack magazines, making it even more versatile. In addition, every gun ships with a carrying bag with a variety of storage options and Velcro straps for security and accessibility.
The gun folds to be more compact for easier transport and portability. (Photo credit: Smith & Wesson)
Features of the Smith & Wesson M&P FPC include:
9mm chambering.
Ships with both 17 and 23-round magazines.
Folding design for portability and storage.
Compatible with compact and full-size double-stack M&P pistol magazines.
16.25-inch barrel.
Blowback action.
Threaded barrel for easy addition of muzzle devices.
Picatinny rail runs length of the handguard for easy addition of optics and magnifiers.
M-LOK compatible handguard for aftermarket accessories such as lights and lasers.
A Picatinny rail and M-LOK compatible handguard make it easy to add aftermarket accessories. (Photo credit: Smith & Wesson)
This is a purpose-driven gun with fantastic applications for self-defense use. And, of course, it’s also a great option for range use and could even be used to hunt pests and varmints.
MSRP for the Smith & Wesson M&P FPC is set at $659.00.
Glock has added a few models to its Gen 5 line-up, including the 9mm G47 and variants of the G20 in 10mm and the G21 in .45. Shown initially at SHOT Show 2023, the Gen 5 models are readily welcomed by consumers, some of which have been waiting for these updated models for over 10 years.
The Glock 21 was initially released in 1990 and had its last update in 2011, essentially frozen in time since then. Glock seemed to be following market trends since then and focused more on the smaller framed 9mm, but what some have seen as a resurgence of large framed pistols, has breathed a fresh breath into the larger full-sized framed 10mm G20 and the .45 G21 pistols.
Glock has updated some full-sized larger framed pistols into the Gen5 family. Debuting at SHOT Show 2023, Glock unveiled G47 (9mm), G20 (10mm), and G21 (.45 ACP) pistols. (Photo credit: Glock)
So, what got updated on the Gen 5 Glock 21?
According to Glock, all the Gen5 qualities are present in this compact-sized pistol. The G21 Gen5 MOS has improved accuracy, lighter recoil, and is ready to accept an optic on the slide. The G21 has dropped the finger grooves on the grip but added a flared magwell and a standard ambidextrous slide-stop lever.
It has a barrel a little over 4.5” and an overall weight of just under 26 ounces unloaded. Although the G21 Gen5 MOS does not have the freshly announced flat-faced Glock Performance Trigger, its trigger does have a smoother pull and an improved reset when compared to previous models.
The G21 Gen5 MOS pistol is only of only a few .45 ACP pistols available with the MOS feature, meaning it’s optics-ready out of the box. (Photo credit: Glock)
The G21 Gen5 MOS pistol has the nDLC surface finish on the major metal components that give the pistol unmatched hardness and rust resistance. The frame has a high traction texture for a better feel and grip on the hand. The pistol also features a reversible magazine catch that can be quickly changed, and the Glock Modular Backstrap System (MBS) so the shooter can adjust the fit of the pistol to their hand easier.
To help round out the features on the Gen5 Glock 21 is the MOS portion standard from the factory, which stands for Modular Optics System, meaning it’s optics-ready out of the box. So far, the G21 Gen5 MOS is one of only a few .45 ACP pistols in the Glock catalog that have the MOS standard. Initial reports state that the Gen5 MOS pistol will come with the No. 2 optics plate that is compatible with Trijicon, Ameriglo, and Holosun patterned red dots, with other plates available from Glock.
The Gen5 Glock 21 MOS has a 13-round capacity with Glock’s Safe Action System and the high visibility orange magazine followers. The G21 Gen5 MOS pistol is available with an MSRP of around $650.
“Yellowstone” is a wildly popular drama that has spurred two prequel stories that are becoming just as popular as the original. The first to arrive was “1883,” telling the story of James Dutton and his family making the trek across the country from Texas to the Montana Territory, where they ultimately settle. Obviously, firearms are a part of the story, considering the setting and plot, so we’re going to take a look at the guns used in “1883.”
This is by no means a full list of all the firearms in the series. There are some that go by too quickly to get a good look at and some are just straight-up non-firing replicas. But it’s no secret Hollywood doesn’t always get things correct when it comes to historical accuracy and firearms. Let’s take a look at the major firearms of the “1883: A Yellowstone Origin Story” and see what the show creators got right and wrong along the way.
“1883” follows the story of James Dutton and his family as they make the journey across the country to become settlers in Montana. Firearms were used throughout the show, like the Winchester 1873 Short Rifle shown above so varying degrees of accuracy. (Photo credit: 1883/Paramount Global)
Rifles
The series includes some iconic rifles, if not entirely period-correct. Let’s take a look.
Winchester 1866
The first rifle to bear the Winchester brand, the 1866 lever-action repeating rifle was known as the “Yellowboy” thanks to the bright brass receiver. The 1866 YellowBoy was an improvement from the earlier Henry toggle-linkage action but included important improvements such as a closed magazine tube and a wooden forearm.
The rifle was used by several nations in the late 1800s, so it is no surprise that it made its appearance in “1883” employed by Pinkerton Agent Thomas, who was one of the two men that were hired to help German immigrants on their journey westward. The repeating rifle was originally chambered in .44 Henry rimfire, but based on the ammo in the character’s bandolier, it looks like a centerfire conversion of the rifle, which was not uncommon. The rifle was available in a variety of special order configurations so it makes sense in the show.
The Model 1866 Yellowboy rifle got its name from the bright brass receiver. This was a popular firearm chambered in .44 Henry, but looks to be a conversion in the show. Those did exist at the time so the show is in line with history on this one. (Photo credit: 1883/Paramount Global)
The rifle would be an easy choice for shooters of the era based on the variety of configurations alone, but with the addition of the King spring-loading gate on the right side of the rifle. This allowed for extra shots to be carried, and faster and easier reloads, and with the extra wooden forend stock the rifle was more stable to shoot and easier to handle. The rifle is still popular today with cowboy recreators and collectors alike.
Winchester 1873
With the nickname of “the gun that won the West,” the show would be seriously lacking if the Winchester 1873 rile did not appear at least somewhat regularly. Within the show, the Dutton family is shown with a few different versions of the Model 1873 rifle, which is right in line with history. The rifle was a popular choice across the West, used by indigenous peoples and settlers alike.
The Model 1873 from Winchester was an improved model of the 1866 repeating rifle. The Winchester Model 1873 rifle was chambered in pistol calibers: .38-40, .32-20, and .44-40. Much like the Model 1866, the Model 1873 was available in many special order configurations for customers to order.
Within “1883,” the Dutton family is shown to carry a few different models. One was the Winchester 1873 Short Rifle that looks to have a button magazine and a round barrel. The other Model 1873 rifle is an octagon-barreled rifle with a full-length magazine. Another version that stands out is the rifle carried by one of the indigenous people in the opening scene of the series that has been decorated in the tack of the carrier, which was popular for many people through the West during the time the series is set.
Winchester 1885
One of the biggest errors comes with the appearance of the Winchester 1885 High Wall rifle, especially since the rifle wasn’t in production until a few years after when the series is said to take place. The Winchester 1885 High Wall was a single-shot rifle that was well suited for long-range shooting or when harvesting large game.
The Winchester 1885 was available in both a High Wall and Low Wall variants, with the High Wall intended for higher-power rounds and the Low Wall designed for, you guessed it, lower-powered rounds. The rifle’s predecessor, the 1879 Browning, was being developed in Browning’s Utah shop a few years before the series is set, but it still makes for an impressive rifle.
The Model 1885 High Wall from Winchester is a major glare for accuracy. This rifle did not exist at the time the series is set, by a few years. Still, a cool rifle to see though. (Photo credit: 1883/Paramount Global)
In the series, Dutton’s Winchester 1885 rifle is topped with a long Malcolm scope. The Malcom company, one of the oldest names in American scopes, gained popularity during the Civil War with its 4X-8X telescopic sights. By the time the show is set, most of the Malcolm scopes were ¾” in diameter and ranged from 14” to 30” long, which looks like what shows up in “1883.” Some commenters on the series have stated that other models, such as the Remington Rolling Block or Sharps 1874, might have been more consistent with the time period instead, both of which do make other appearances in other episodes.
Handguns
Colt Single Action Variants
The Colt Single Action Army revolver is a Hollywood favorite, and “1883” is no exception. Shown heavily throughout the series, the Colt Single Action revolver is said to be the most American gun of all time and a true symbol of the Old West. With so many in circulation by the early 1880s, the prevalence of the revolver is very accurate. The Colt was the first reliable mass-produced revolver with a metallic cartridge cylinder.
Many versions of the Colt Single Action Army revolver appear in the series. The revolver shown above is the “calvary” model, which is in line with the character of Shea Brennan as a Civil War veteran. (Photo credit: 1883/Paramount Global)
The Colt Single Action revolver had many variants: the Civilian, Artillery, Cavalry, and Sheriff models just to name a few. With the abundance of revolver models, and at the price point, it makes sense it would be used by many veterans of the war and folks in the West as well. Especially given that the cavalry had issued the revolver in pairs, it is accurate that Dutton’s character would have two. An added advantage of having two is the faster reload, like Wild Bill Cody and John Westley Hardin would attest.
The Colt Single Action Army revolver was employed by many of the characters on the show from Dutton’s 17-year-old daughter to the aging Shea Brennan character played by Sam Elliott, with some characters carrying a pair of revolvers. The various carrying displays of the revolvers might be a bit creative, but the sheer number of handguns in the series seems to be spot on.
Model 1860 Army Richards-Mason
In arguably one of the most heart-wrenching scenes of the series, James Dutton’s sister is overcome with grief after her daughter is killed in an altercation with bandits outside of Fort Worth. In a scene filled with emotion, Claire ends her life at the grave of her daughter, with the help of what is said to be the Model 1860 Army Richards-Mason style conversion revolver. While the firearm of choice might not have been what some Western settlers would have used, it demonstrates the hard life that many of them faced, or chose to not face, as the case would be.
In a heartbreaking scene, James Dutton’s sister, Claire, decides to end her suffering after losing her daughter in a bandit raid outside of Fort Worth. The handgun shown in the series is most likely a replica based on key features missing or in different locations than on the original. (Photo credit: 1883/Paramount Global)
The Model 1860 Army Richard-Mason revolvers, sometimes called the Avenging Angel, originally had ejectors fitted on the right side of the barrel, whereas the revolver depicted in the series did not. The series showed the revolver with a loading lever under the barrel, something that the original did not have. The revolver was commonly referred to as conversion, as the platform used a combination of surplus percussion parts and new parts to make up the assembly by Colt. The revolver in the series is most likely a replica.
Old West Shotguns
When most folks think of the guns that won the west, they usually think of the Colt revolver or a Winchester repeating rifle. Not too many think of double-barreled shotguns, a firearm that some would argue actually won the west. The platform was a reliable and versatile weapon that was used heavily in self-defense and hunting. In the series, the Dutton family, and other characters, use shotguns in both roles quite often.
The shotgun was just as prevalent as the rifle or revolver in the west so it makes sense it would play a pivotal role in the series. While most shotguns had a 26″ or longer barrel, the Coach Gun has a shorter barrel and was used exactly as depicted in the series. (Photo credit: 1883/Paramount Global)
The shotgun was just as affordable as other firearms for the settlers and was used readily. One shotgun that is seen is the Colt Model 1878. In the series, there are a lot of side-by-side shotguns wielded, and most shotguns (or scatterguns) would have long barrels close to 26” long or more. There were shorter shotguns available, like the “coach gun” that is used early in the series by James Dutton, that were used to protect freight wagons, stagecoaches, and trains through dangerous territory.
Conclusion
There certainly are some glaring issues with some firearms in “1883: A Yellowstone Origin Story,” but for the most part, the firearms seem to be accurately portrayed. Hollywood has gotten better over the years with firearms representation, so it was nice to see it happening in this series. The next part of the origin story is “1923,” so it will be interesting to see how firearms are portrayed in that series.
When it comes to rifle selection, portability matters. Whether you’re hunting squirrels in the woods, headed to the range for target practice, or traveling, it helps to have an easily transported firearm. The Volquartsen VT2 line of takedown rifles is designed for just that thanks to its easily operated levers and buttons that separate the gun into two compact pieces. This popular platform is now available in 22 LR, bringing a new level of versatility to the line.
The Volquartsen VT2 Takedown is a rifle designed for easy operation and accurate results. (Photo credit: Volquartsen)
Volquartsen states the VT2 Takedown rifle in 22 LR is ideal for everything from storing the gun with your gear during your next outdoor trek or placing it in your backpack for easy access during a hunt or hike. This rifle is designed for versatility and is useful for everyone, from the small game or varmint hunter to the overlander or survivalist. As the manufacturer says, the VT2 Takedown is ready when you are.
The rifle is chambered in 22 LR and can be quickly and easily disconnected for storage or transport. (Photo credit: Volquartsen)
Disconnecting the two halves of the rifle is as simple as depressing the takedown button and releasing the locking lever with a downward pull. Doing those two things makes it possible for the barrel to slide out of the receiver. That’s all it takes for the gun to be reduced to a more compact size for storage or transport. To put the gun back together for use, slide the barrel into the receiver and return the locking lever to its original position.
A Picatinny rail atop the receiver makes adding a scope to the gun simple. (Photo credit: Volquartsen)
The VT2 Takedown in 22 LR is made so accuracy and repeatability are a given. This rifle offers a truly unique design and is made according to exacting specifications. This ensures the point of impact remains reliable even after the gun has been taken down into two parts and put back together again. Regardless of how you choose to store it, the VT2 is built to perform.
Features of the gun include:
22 LR chambering
Picatinny rail for easy addition of a scope
Adjustable stock so the length of pull can be changed to fit the shooter
2.25-pound trigger pull weight set at the factory
6 pound, 13 ounce overall empty weight
10 round capacity
MSRP for the Volquartsen VT2 in 22 LR is set at $2261.00.
Kat Ainsworth Stevens is a long-time outdoor writer, official OGC (Original Gun Cognoscenti), and author of Handgun Hunting: a Comprehensive Guide to Choosing and Using the Right Firearms for Big and Small Game. Der Teufel Katze has written for a number of industry publications (print and online) and edited some of the others, so chances are you’ve seen or read her work before, somewhere. A woman of eclectic background and habits, Kat has been carrying concealed for over two decades, used to be a farrier, and worked for a long time in emergency veterinary medicine. She prefers big bores, enjoys K9 Search & Rescue, and has a Master’s Degree in Pitiless Snarkastic Delivery.
FN America, LLC has given lovers of its pistols another option to choose from with the release of four promotional pistol bundles for the FN 509 and FNX-45 Tactical. These bundles include upgrades like the FN 509 flat-faced trigger and fiber optic front sight, in addition to the five magazines per package.
Each pistol bundle will be packaged with three additional extended capacity magazines, if available, to reach that 5-magazine total. The bundle will come inside a premium FN zippered range bag and will be available for a limited time only.
FN America has released limited editions of the FN 509 Tactical, FN 509 Compact, FN 509 MRD FOS, and FNX-45 Tactical pistols with five magazines. The pistol bundles, a few shown above, come with three additional higher-capacity magazines when available. (Photo credit: FN America)
FN 509 Tactical
The first package is for the FN 509 Tactical pistol. This pistol is a duty-proven pistol with upgrades that are perfect for a high-round count shooter, like FN’s custom flat-faced precision trigger. The FN 509 Tactical is optics-ready with suppressor height night sights and includes three 24-round magazines and two 17-round magazines. The pistol bundle is available in black or FDE with two different magazine configuration options for an MSRP of $1,104.
FN 509 MRD FOS
The next package from FN is for the FN 509 MRD FOS, the fiber optic front sight option. This pistol is patterned after the handgun chosen by the LAPD. This pistol also features FN’s custom flat-faced precision trigger, and the shooter can co-witness with a fiber optic front sight. The FN 509 MRD FOS has a flat dark earth or black finish and a factory-milled slide. The pistol has magazine choices of three 10-round magazines or three 24-round magazines. The FN 509 MRD FOS bundle has an MSRP of $899.
FN 509 Compact
The third pistol bundle from FN is the FN 509 Compact pistol bundle. The FN 509 Compact is the next generation for personal protection and is specifically designed for concealed carry with a full-sized performance. This pistol bundle has three extra 24-round magazines, ambidextrous controls, and a flat-faced precision trigger that is perfect for high-round count practice shooters. The pistol bundle is available in black or FDE and has an MSRP of $754.
FNX-45 Tactical
The last five-magazine FN pistol bundle is the FNX 45 Tactical. The FNX-45 Tactical pistol offers performance with the latest technological advancements that no other handgun can match, according to FN. This .45ACP pistol has ambidextrous controls and is available in either black or FDE finishes. The FNX-45 Tactical pistol bundle has an MSRP of $1,379.
The ability to hunt at night broadens your options exponentially. Although not all animals can be hunted at night, many predators and non-game animals can be, such as feral hogs and bobcats. If you don’t have thermal, hunting them is a lot harder. If you have thermal on hand, your success will be far greater. Of course, not all animals come close. For example, coyotes are notorious for getting hung up at a distance. X-Vision Optics is here to help with the long-range friendly Impact TS300, a thermal scope specifically made for those longer shots.
The X-Vision Optics long-range Impact thermal scope, the TS300, is designed to perform at longer distances. (Photo credit: X-Vision Optics)
According to X-Vision optics, the TS300 has a 640 x 480 thermal sensor capable of detecting large animals at distances past 3,000 yards, which is truly impressive. The TS300 offers a total of ten reticle styles with six color options and six different palettes, meaning you can select the features you prefer for the place and time.
This thermal has an IP67 weatherproof rating, meaning it’s more capable of withstanding the elements, and it’s made with a durable chassis. Even better, this scope can be used for day or night hunting, meaning you can have one scope that does it all on your favorite rifle.
Between the Impact TS300’s 3100-yard detection range and 1400-yard recognition range, you can be confident you’ll find your target. This scope has a high frame rate of 50 Hz and 12 µm pixel size, meaning it can capture sharp images and provide smooth tracking of even quickly moving animals at a distance. The scope’s objective lens is 35mm in diameter and, according to the manufacturer, it has a field of view of 70 feet at 100 yards. Magnification for the TS300 is listed as 2 to 16x.
The thermal is designed for day or night use, making it significantly more versatile. (Photo credit: X-Vision Optics)
One great feature of this thermal scope is the fact that it emits a WiFi signal, making it capable of connecting to numerous devices at the same time without relying on data. This facilitates a true long-range connection, allowing devices to connect to the thermal up to 150 yards out. The TS300 ships with free applications for IOS and Android devices so pictures and videos can be saved either on a connected device or utilizing the scope’s internal memory of 16 GB.
According to the manufacturer, the scope is capable of finding targets out to 3000 yards. (Photo credit: X-Vision Optics)
Other features of this scope include optional hotspot tracking, a capability that utilizes a crosshair to pinpoint and then follow whatever the hottest object is in its field of view. which uses a small crosshair to pinpoint and follow the hottest object in its field of view. This makes it much simpler to track a far-off, moving object. In addition, the scope has a stadiametric rangefinder so you can figure out just how far away a target really is in real-time. A picture-in-picture feature also allows the user to see the scope’s max magnification in a subset of the main screen.
MSRP for the X-Vision Optics Impact TS300 thermal scope is set at $5999.99.
