The latest expansion in Smith & Wesson’s Military & Police (M&P) line was announced on November 16th. It’s the MP10mm M2.0 pistol, and it has the various “enhanced features” S&W expects you to expect in one of their pistols.
John Myles, Smith & Wesson’s Senior New Project Manager (SWSNPM, to use the convenient acronym) explains:
“Having not made a 10mm semi-automatic hand gun since the 1990’s [sic], it’s a pleasure to re-enter that space with the M&P10mm M2.0 pistol. The 10mm caliber has its own following, and our customers have been asking us to bring one back. We are excited to launch this product using the M&P45 M2.0 as a building block to support existing aftermarket accessories that are readily available, as well as adding new enhanced features like the optics ready slide and the new M2.0 flat face trigger.”
S&W MP10mm M2.0
The new 10mm pistol will ship with an optics cut slide utilizing Smith and Wesson’s multiple-brand-friendly C.O.R.E. system, allowing for a variety of optic options. It will also feature their new flat face trigger design (designed to optimize trigger finger placement for more consistent and accurate shooting), and 15+1 capacity magazines.
As the rest of the release says,
These new handguns are purpose-built with the end consumer in mind. They include the M2.0 features and are available with or without an ambidextrous manual thumb safety. Smith & Wesson will offer a shorter 4” configuration of the handgun to allow for quicker clearance of a holster or a slightly longer 4.6” configuration to provide for a longer sight radius to optimize the accuracy of the barrel’s 1-in-10 twist rate. The M&P10mm M2.0 comes with the familiar 18-degree grip angle, four interchangeable palmswell grip inserts, and enhanced grip texture to help manage recoil.
The MSRP on the M&P10mm pistol is $654.00 to $665.00.
Designed to shoot bigger, faster, flatter, and farther. Whether for hunting, self-defense, or the range – M&P 10mm delivers when you need it most.
Some MP10mm 2.0 Features
Slide cut for optics
M2.0 flat face trigger for consistent flnger placement that allows for more accurate and repeatable shooting
Low barrel bore axis makes the M&P® pistol more comfortable to shoot reducing muzzle rise and allowing for faster aim recovery
Optimal 18-degree grip angle for natural point of aim
Four interchangeable palmswell grip inserts for optimal hand fit and trigger reach – S, M, ML, L
Enhanced grip texture allows the user to manage recoil, keep a firm grip, and delivers comfort when concealing
New M&P® M2.0™ crisp trigger with lighter trigger pull
Tactile and audible trigger reset
Accurate 1 in 10˝ twist M&P® M2.0™ barrel
Extended rigid embedded stainless steel chassis to reduce flex and torque when firing
M&P’s patented take-down lever and sear deactivation systems allow for disassembly without pulling the trigger
Springfield Armory announced today their newest addition to their 1911 pistols, the Garrison in .45 ACP.
Garrison 1911 in .45 ACP. [Photo courtesy of Springfield Armory]
Featuring forged materials and heirloom-quality construction, the 5”-barreled Garrison 1911 combines modern construction with a heritage spanning back more than a century.
Available with classic hot salt blued carbon steel or rust-resistant stainless-steel construction, the Garrison is a rock-solid 1911 that gives you a host of upgrades along with the strength to provide a lifetime of service. The pistols feature forged frames, slides and barrels for durability as well as modern enhancements such as low-profile yet high-visibility sights, extended thumb safety, thinline grips and much more.
Thinline Grips. [Photo courtesy of Springfield Armory]
“The Garrison is designed to appeal to those who respect tradition and demand the quality for which Springfield Armory 1911 pistols are known,” says Springfield Armory’s Vice President of Marketing, Steve Kramer. “With a forged steel foundation for strength and heirloom-quality construction, this is a pistol that offers a modern take on a proven classic.”Anyone familiar with the classic 1911 pistol will be right at home with the Garrison. With its traditional barrel bushing system and wood grips, this is a pistol that captures the charm of a design with more than a century of service behind it. At the same time, enhancements such as the match grade stainless steel barrel, skeletonized hammer, extended beavertail grip safety with memory bump, and more ensure maximum performance.
Low Profile 3-Dot Sights. [Photo courtesy of Springfield Armory]
The Garrison pistols feature attractive finishes made up of a smooth, matte finish on the rounds of the slide and frame complemented by polished flats that bring out the luster of the carbon or stainless steel. MSRP for the blued version is $800, and $849 for stainless. For those who respect tradition and demand Springfield Armory’s legendary commitment to quality, the Garrison stands ready.
7-Round Magazine Included. [Photo courtesy of Springfield Armory]
In 1794, the original Springfield Armory began manufacturing muskets for the defense of our young, free Republic. The Armory functioned as a firearms supplier for every major American conflict until 1968 when the government sadly closed its doors. In 1974, nearly two centuries after its inception, Springfield Armory Inc. in Geneseo, Ill. revived the iconic heritage of the Armory to carry on its legacy.
We strive to honor this responsibility as guardians of the original Springfield Armory legacy by manufacturing the highest quality firearms to enable responsible citizens to preserve their right to keep and bear arms in the defense of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
With an unmatched emphasis on craftsmanship, performance and exceptional customer service, our mission is to forge superior firearms and provide the tools necessary to defend individual freedoms and equality for those who embrace the rights and principles secured by our Founding Fathers.
Looking for a way to upgrade your rifle without major changes to its setup? Would you like to potentially improve your own performance at the range? That’s where this easy rifle hack from TFB TV comes into play. In this video, the guys at TFB TV explain how a properly adjusted and utilized rifle sling can be a game-changer for you. Not only is it worth having a sling, they say, but it’s worth doing it right. Read on to discover just how easy it can be to up your gun game.
Could a rifle sling greatly improve your gun skills? TFB TV finds out. (Photo credit: TFB TV)
Why use a rifle sling?
There are quite a few reasons to put a sling on your rifle (and on other long guns, too). Here’s a list to get you going:
Hands-free carry
Stability
Bracing
Easier rifle-to-pistol transitions
Improved accuracy
Removing the strain from hands and arms
Blue Force Gear, a manufacturer of slings, took the TFB TV team through a three-hour class on sling use. During the class, they did everything from helping the team set up their rifles correctly to teaching them technique — and it’s all been reduced to a 20-minute video so you can watch and learn.
Getting ready for a rifle class on proper sling use. (Photo credit: TFB TV)
In the video, Chris from Blue Force Gear offers advice and answers questions. One question is, “What do we need a sling to do to be optimized?”
He says, ” …a sling needs to do three things for me. …if it doesn’t do these three things, you reduce it down to it [being nothing but a] parade sling, it doesn’t do anything but attach a gun to your body.
“[First] a sling has to give me the ability to have a repeatable and reliable front sling position. The reason I want [that] position is because most of the time…my hands are off the gun. [When] my hands are off the gun…I need it retained… …I don’t need it bouncing around…I don’t need it pointing at anything it’s not supposed to be pointed [toward]. …
“Two, a [good sling] will make what is inherently a [not] stable firing platform more stable through the use of a sling. We get that through a combination of…having an adjustable sling and…having it sized and fitted properly to the rifle and the shooter. …[the third thing] is I have to have a QD capability in the front [or] in the rear – preferably both – for [quick removal for trauma treatment].”
Blue Force Gear explains rifle sling use to the TFB TV team. (Photo credit: TFB TV)
To find out what else Blue Force Gear has to say about using rifle slings the right way, and what the TFB TV team got out of it, watch the video:
Do you really need a one?
As with any piece of gear, a sling is purpose driven. What are you using your gun for, and is it dedicated to that use? Is it a tactical or home defense rifle? Do you use it for hunting? Consider these things before choosing a sling. There are, after all, many types of slings and methods for using them.
Do you have a sling on your rifle? Which brand, and how does it work for you? Drop a comment below to share.
Ever take the time to listen to your gun? I don’t mean the loud “bang” that we protect our ears from. I mean paying attention to its operation. Similar to how your car will often tell you how it’s running, or what might be wrong with it, your gun will do the same.
I’d never really thought of it like that, but Daniel Shaw of Gun Mag Warehouse makes a good case for tweaking your thinking toward your firearm in this video.
When is it ready to fire?
Daniel gives us the example of how some shooters, especially when trying to fire quickly, fail to let the gun tell them when it’s ready to fire the next round. What he means by that is allowing the front sight or the dot to get back on target before pressing the trigger again.
It seems simple, but I can remember doing just what he talked about when I first started shooting. The first shot was carefully aimed but the follow-up shots were often sent in the general direction of the first. Only later, after taking some courses, did I learn that particular skill, and, trust me, it takes practice to acquire and maintain. But making a conscious effort to do small things like that can make you a better shooter even without an instructor looking over your shoulder. I think Daniel makes a good point about seeing it as the gun telling you it’s ready. Just a simple adjustment to your thinking.
Train yourself to not press the trigger until the front sight or dot is back on target. (Photo on the right courtesy of opticgearlab.com)
This frame of mind can help you identify techniques that need work, such as tracking your sights better or improving your grip to manage recoil. These things help your gun get ready faster. The faster your gun gets ready, the more effective you will be.
When is it not ready to fire?
Stoppages are another way your gun communicates with you. It will dang sure tell you when it’s not ready to fire, whether it be the dreaded “click,” which I reference in an article of the same name, or a stovepiped round sticking out of the ejection port.
Running stoppage drills teaches you how to respond when your gun tells you something’s wrong.
In both of those cases and others, your gun is giving you clues about what is wrong with it. Maybe you’re a slob and just haven’t cleaned it since the last time you did, which you can’t really remember. Happens to all of us. Or most of us. Or some of us. I can’t really be the only one here, can I? Learn to read those clues and you will know what to do to fix it and get back to shooting. And if you carry a gun, reading those clues and taking the correct action may save your life someday.
Daniel Shaw explains how your gun will tell you when its ready to fire or if it has a problem, as long as you’re properly tuned to its operation.
It’s a mindset thing and it will take a little time and practice.
Just like it takes time behind the wheel to learn what your car is supposed to feel like, the same applies to your gun. Everyone knows that if the gun fails to go “bang” when you press the trigger something is wrong, but can you quickly identify what that wrong thing is? Your gun will let you know if you’ve taken the time to get to know it.
Training yourself to listen to your gun will get you up and firing quicker and more efficiently.
So, as always, you gotta practice. I’m heading that way myself, since typing this has reminded me that it’s been a week or so. See ya on the range.
When someone says AK or Kalashnikov, we can all picture that rifle in our minds. It’s that universal. The AK12 from Kalashnikov, used by the Russian military, is not far off either. The gents over at Ultimate Weapons and Gun Breakers give some good background as well as abuse testing to see how it stacks up to its predecessor.
The AK12, in case you didn’t know, is one of the latest iterations from the Kalashnikov Group chambered in 5.45×39. It’s essentially the updated and modern version of the AK47. The AK12 came to be in 2011 by the Izhmash factory for the RATNIK trial by the Russian Army. After those trials, it was further developed by the Kalashnikov Group and received modifications and changes so that the rifle would meet military needs.
The AK12 went through extremely rigorous testing to be adopted by the Russian military. What came out of those tests is now a high standard for future rifles to meet.
The main things that needed to be addressed were the concern of the overall cost to manufacture as well as the issues with accuracy and reliability in the original version in full auto. Several revisions to the rifle helped pare down the list of defects and concerns in the original versions.
After rigorous testing, it completed operational field testing in June of 2017, and again in December 2017 and was adopted in January of 2018 by the Russian military.
With a cyclic rate of 700 rounds a minute, this 415mm barreled rifle has a maximum range of 800 meters. The rifle also comes with standard 30 round magazines that have windows to help see the number of rounds left in the mag. Not only do they work with AK12 mags, but they are also compatible with AK74 magazines. To round out the features of the AK12, it has an adjustable stock, a large firing selector, and a cleaning kit tucked into the grip.
But how does the AK12 hold up to abuse? Well, Georgiy Gubich, a Kalashnikov specialist at Gun Busters, took on the challenge. In full protection gear that includes a flack vest, they started out with 1,000 rounds of ammunition, stacks of 30 round magazines and proceeded to do mag dumps in full auto.
Hot takeaways
• After 60 rounds, smoke can be seen coming out of the barrel • After 180 rounds, smoke increases • After 390 rounds, the barrel is red hot and has a glowing muzzle brake • After 510 rounds, there are visible flames coming out of the handguards • After 680 rounds, sparks and flames burst from rifle and the test ends
The AK12 held up surprisingly well in the stress test. After nearly 500 rounds, the barrel and muzzle brake started glowing red.
Georgiy runs magazine after magazine, not letting the rifle cool down. He notes the presence of smoke that doesn’t dissipate at 180 rounds. After shooting a constant 480 rounds, he notes the strong smell of plastic with the smoke still emanating from the rifle. When he hits the 510 round mark, there are visible flames coming out of the handguard, but he notes that there is no change in the rate of fire. Larger flames and muzzle flames start showing up around the 570 round mark. Once the rifle reaches the 620 round mark, Georgiy quips that he’s gone blind and then subsequently deaf after the 650 round mark. The barrel burst and is on fire at the 680 round mark, thus ending the abuse test.
Georgiy then extinguishes the flames and cools down the rifle to get a better look at it. He says that having a burst barrel is common in 5.45 or 5.56 rifles because of the thermal expansion which causes the bore to get tighter and slows down the bullets. The pressure shock happens and the barrel breaks at the stress point. Even with all the fire present in the test, the bolt and carrier are unchanged along with the muzzle brake.
Withstanding 680 straight rounds with no cooldown, the AK12’s barrel bursts and send sparks and flames into the air. But it survived three times the number of rounds it needed to based on standards from the Russian Ministry of Defense.
Overall, the rifle withstood 680 rounds in rapid succession, which is three times the number required by the Ministry of Defense for the rifle. Not only that, but that number is 100 rounds higher than what the AK74 stood up to. Looks like the Russian military has a solid gun to work with.
Want to watch the overview video for yourself? Check out the Ultimate Weapon video here:
But if you want to see an AK12 catch on fire and ultimately burst, check out this one from the Kalashnikov Group:
So, guess what? CMMG has released three firsts with one gun. First, the FourSix is the first AR platform to chamber the 4.6x30mm round. The second first is the first civilian firearm to utilize the 4.6x30mm. The third first is the first use of the new micro length gas system that uses CMMG’s patent-pending Micro gas block. The 4.6x30mm is one of two PDW calibers. The OG of PDW calibers is the 5.7x28mm.
FN was smart and released 5.7 caliber guns like the Five-SeveN pistol and the PS90 to the civilian market, but HK has never even considered releasing a civilian MP7. The round has languished in the civilian market, even though Fiocchi makes plenty of it. The FourSix is a Banshee Mk4 AR pistol, and CMMG’s also made a 5.7 Banshee, so this isn’t an all or nothing.
The little Banshee sure as hell wails.
Why would I, as a civilian, choose the 4.6x30mm over the 5.7? Well, mainly because 4.6x30mm can be cheaper. Significantly cheaper than 5.7×28 because it doesn’t require the lacquer coating the 5.7x28mm has. The big difference currently is all about economy of scale, so if the 4.6 gets more popular, the ammunition could be cheaper than the 5.7×28.
Now, this is my first real experience with 4.6x30mm, and obviously, my first experience with the CMMG FourSix, and I honestly think this could be a fantastic home defense platform.
But Why Not Just 9mm?
Why use 4.6x30mm over a simple 9mm subgun? I have a 9mm Banshee, and I love it. Is 4.6x30mm ever going to be 9mm cheap? I can’t say, but it will take a long time for it to reach 9mm prices. However, there is a reason these PDW rounds were developed. NATO wanted a round that outperformed the 9mm from an SMG-style platform. The main concern was max range and armor-piercing capability.
The 4.6x30mm isn’t quite a rifle round, but it flies faster and further than any 9mm. The 4.6x30mm flies at a speed of 1,900 feet per second with my cheap Fioochi loads. It flies much further than the 9mm. At 100 yards, the 9mm can have a foot of drop! With the 4.6X30mm, I’m seeing about 4 inches with the 4.6x30mm out of the CMMG FourSix.
The 4.6x30mm finally has a civillian platform to worm its way into.
The CMMG FourSix packs an eight-inch barrel, and honestly, I’m using a red dot, but I think a 1-4X LPVO or even a 3x or 4x prism would be a superior option to take advantage of the gun’s accuracy and max range. At 100 yards, in a good stable position, I’m scoring beautiful headshots on an IPSC target.
The 8-inch barrel is topped with a CMMG SV Brake for even more recoil reduction.
It’s not a proper rifle round, so you won’t get the same superb accuracy out of it as a 1 MOA 5.56 rifle. However, it’s easily accurate enough for practical applications. I can quickly kill coyotes at that range with decent headshots. That spitzer-style bullet and retained velocity ensure good penetration.
The CMMG FourSix
The CMMG FourSix uses the AR platform we all know and love. In terms of changes to the gun for the 4.6x30mm, there aren’t many. First, the magazines are proprietary, but they are built in the shape and design of a standard 5.56 magazine. This allows the magazines to function in a Mil-Spec lower receiver so you can purchase a CMMG build kit and build your own FourSix.
The magazine fits Mil-Spec AR 15 lowers and magazine pouches.
Additionally, these magazines fit AR 15 magazine pouches without issue. This opens up your ability to carry spares with ease. The CMMG 4.6x30mm magazines hold 40 rounds of 4.6x30mm and interact without issue with your last round bolt hold open.
The magazine design is smart and gives you 40 rounds of 4.6x30mm.
The gun utilizes an 8-inch barrel, which taps out the velocity of the 4.6x30mm round. At the end of that barrel sits a CMMG SV brake. The FourSix comes with an M-LOK handguard, a CMMG/SB Tactical RipBrace and tube, as well as a Magpul pistol grip. The ergonomics are standard AR-15 with an ambidextrous safety and massive charging handle.
CMMG makes the gun available in a variety of cerakote finishes.
Like any CMMG AR, the FourSix is exceptionally well made. The receiver fit is tight, the castle nut is staked, and the handguard isn’t moving. Also, it uses the standard direct impingement system like every other rifle caliber AR-15.
The controls include an ambidextrous safety and charging handle.
The use of CMMG’s new micro length gas system and micro gas block make the FourSix a fascinating design that doesn’t require a blowback action. The FourSix is super lightweight at only five pounds and six ounces.
Using 4.6 for Home Defense
Is the CMMG FourSix the best choice for home defense? Best is relative, and I’d say a 5.56 rifle is likely best for most people. However, if you are a petite person, someone with strength issues, or disabled, I’m more likely to recommend the 4.6x30mm to the 5.56 or even the 9mm. If you don’t plan to train, the 4.6x30mm is also quite handy.
Shooting with speed is easy and my sub-1.5-second failure to stop drill proves it.
At the range, the gun barely even moved between shots. I started firing combating drills like failure to stop, box drills, and the VTAC 1-5 drill. The gun barely moves between shots. It handles like a loud 22 LR, to be honest. I could shoot blazingly fast and accurately. With the light recoil, my double-taps were nearly on top of each other.
Anyone can shoot the 4.6x30mm due to its light recoil and non-existant muzzle rise.
For failure to stop drills, I was scoring below 1.5 seconds at 15 yards. I dropped rounds directly into the -0 of the head and chest of my targets. The super-light recoil and the non-existent muzzle rise make it very easy to control. The fact the gun is light and short also helps keep things sweet and easy to control. I can dump long strings of fire into the target with the gun barely moving.
Ballistic Capability
I might need that because, ultimately, the 4.6x30mm doesn’t have the energy of a 5.56, and expansion isn’t nearly as good as a 9mm. The main advantage is good penetration and the fact the round tumbles. The 4.6x30mm penetrates deep enough to kill but relies a lot on shot placement and lots of rounds. The 40 round magazines and easy-to-control design make it easy to put several rounds into an attacker with absolute ease.
At 50 yards the accuracy was impressive enough for repeated headshots.
I fired the 9mm Banshee side by side with the 4.6x30mm FourSix Banshee, and the difference in recoil is night and day. The 4.6x30mm delivers much lower recoil and gives me 40 angry little bees in the magazine. Handling the FourSix with a single hand shows a serious advantage to the 4.6x30mm in terms of control and accuracy.
The FourSix works fine with a red dot, but a magnified optic wouldn’t be out of line.
The Navy SEALs, specifically DevGru guys, use the MP7 with the 4.6x30mm round and have put lots of bad guys in the ground. They went on the bin Laden raid and have turned lots of terrorists into good terrorists. According to the limited information on DevGru post-ops, it seems like more is better with the MP7. They often dump a controlled burst into the bad guy.
With a well-supported position headshots at 50 yards are possible.
Does that mean it’s necessary? Well, maybe. But to be fair, if someone is worth shooting once, they are worth shooting over and over. You don’t shoot once, pause, and make sure the bad guy is still a bad guy. You can shoot a half dozen rounds in a second, which might be pretty tempting in a violent encounter.
Penetration Concerns
The big advantage of the 5.56 round is the fact that it tends to tumble and lose energy quickly through drywall. Buckshot and 9mm tend to keep popping through, but 5.56 tumbles. 4.6x30mm, in theory, should do the same. The little 4.6x30mm should strike, tumble, lose energy and help prevent overpenetration. The best way to prevent over-penetration is not to miss, and the CMMG FourSix makes that easy, but crap happens.
CMMG brings the PDW home.
Call me a fan. I hope the CMMG FourSix becomes a success and more and more companies produce 4.6x30mm firearms. I want to see the price drop for ammunition, and I think the 4.6x30mm could be a great round, in short, PDW-type platforms. The CMMG FourSix will certainly help the 4.6’s case as a fantastic firearm.
Does the 4.6x30mm appeal to you? Yes? No? Let us know below what you think.
Bullpup shotguns used to be a rather weird, niche type of shotgun that would pop up and then fade away. Mossberg made a bullpup 500 series gun, High Standard had the Model 10, but then KelTec came along with the KSG. When the KSG came around, something clicked, and the concept became much more accepted. As a shotgun nerd, I’ve experimented with a variety of bullpup shotguns, and today we are doing a bullpup shotgun shootout with four of the best bullpup shotguns on the market.
Bullpup Shotguns — Why?
Bullpup shotguns make a lot of sense. Shotguns are close-quarters weapons that excel in bad breath ranges. In CQB, the smaller your weapon, the more maneuverable it is and the easier it is to use. With shotguns, you can see two routes to get a short shotgun. First, get a tax stamp, trim the barrel down a bit at the cost of ammo capacity, and call it a day.
Bullpup Shotguns keep things short and powerful.
That’s one way, but bullpup shotguns are the other. They shrink the platform to short barrel shotgun levels without the need for a tax stamp and without the need to trim ammo capacity. In fact, three of the four bullpup shotguns on this list have expanded capacity compared to most shotguns. These shotguns are shrunk to SBS levels but don’t require a tax stamp.
Into the Breach
So today, we have four of what I think are the best bullpup shotguns currently on the market. We are looking at the KelTec KS7, the Smith and Wesson M&P 12, the IWI TS 12, and the SRM 1216. We have two pump actions and two semi-autos with capacity varying from 7 to 16 rounds.
These 12 gauge blasters keep things short and sweet.
Unlike bullpup rifles, which tend to follow a similar layout, bullpup shotguns are all over the place in design and function. This makes them rather fascinating, and it feels like bullpup shotguns are at a phase where experimenting and the market will drive what becomes the best overall model that will drive the market in the future. So without further ado, let’s get down to our bullpup shotgun shootout.
1. KelTec KS7
The wee little KS7 is a descendant from the KSG and simplifies the design rather nicely. This single tube gun holds seven rounds and presents a very affordable bullpup blaster. This is about as close to a regular shotgun as you get on this list. The KS7 is super lightweight and shorter than a Mossberg Shockwave, yet you get a stock, seven rounds, and a weird but efficient mounting system for accessories.
The KS7 keeps things simple…and affordable
Bullpup shotguns are rarely this simple, but the KS7 is a nice break from more complicated guns. Simply load the tube, rack the pump, and you’re set. The controls are ambidextrous, and ejection is done through the bottom of the gun, ensuring both righties and lefties get their day in the sun.
Bottom feeding makes it tough to load quickly, but makes it ambidextrous.
Bullpup shotguns, much like bullpup rifles, are often slow and awkward to reload. That is an issue here with the loading port in front of your armpit. It’s slow to reload and awkward to reload while on target. However, the little 5.9-pound shotgun handles well and is so damn short it’s easy to use in a phone booth.
Pros Extremely Lightweight Extremely Short Holds 7 Rounds Downright Affordable
Cons Awkward to reload No stock optics options
2. S&W M&P 12
Of all the bullpup shotguns, the M&P 12 surprised me the most. First, Smith and Wesson isn’t a shotgun company. Second, this is an odd shotgun to make. This is a pump-action, dual tube design with a bullpup layout. The M&P 12 holds fourteen 2.75 inch shells, and that’s a ton of lead for a shotgun.
Shotgun go BOOM!
The barrel is 19 inches long, but the overall length is only 27.8 inches total. It’s a super short design that took the KSG’s initial idea and then refined it into a much more ergonomic shotgun. The M&P 12’s tube selector is mounted on the pump, and the controls are ambidextrous, an optics mount and M-LOK rail are also included. It’s a well-built shotgun that’s filled to gills with ammo.
I love the Cyberpunk appeal.
The weapon feeds and ejects from the bottom, making it quite handy for lefties. While it’s short, the M&P bullpup shotguns are quite hefty when fully loaded and weigh over ten pounds. S&W solved a problem if the weapon jams by making the ejection port expand at will to dump jammed shells.
Pros Optics/Accessory ready Short and CQB ready 14 rounds with mini shell compatibility Awesome ergonomics.
Cons Long Length of Pull Heavy
3. IWI TS12
The IWI TS 12 produced a concept I fell in love with at first sight. As far as bullpup shotguns go, this one shocked me with how cool the design is. IWI utilizes three rotating tube magazines that each hold five rounds. The total capacity of this weapon is 15 rounds of 2.75-inch shells. The shell release is located in the trigger guard and makes rotating tubes fast and easy.
The new Hebrew Hammer
The IWI TS 12 is also semi-automatic and uses a gas operating system for the utmost reliability. The gas operating system also helps reduce recoil significantly and makes controlling the weapon very easy. The IWI TS 12 is only 28.34 inches long with an 18.5-inch barrel, making it extremely efficient.
Three five-round tubes give you 15 rounds total.
The IWI TS 12 can be loaded like a normal shotgun with loading ports on the left and right side. You can very easily continually load the gun like a normal shotgun and keep the gun running. The downside of the gun is that it tends to be ammo picky, with a requirement for ammunition loaded to 1 1/8th of an ounce at least 1,200 FPS. My first TS 12 was unreliable, but IWI seems to have figured it out in the later generations.
Pros Soft recoiling Semi-auto 15 rounds Easy to load
Cons Ammo Picky Must be sold/set up for left-handed use at the factory.
4. SRM 1216
This is a quasi bullpup shotgun, but I’m including it on my list of bullpup shotguns. The SRM 1216 utilizes a unique feeding system that predates the IWI TS 12 but also uses rotating tubes. This shotgun utilizes four rotating tubes that hold a total of sixteen 2.75 inch 12 gauge shells. These tubes also rotate in both directions, and when a loaded tube meets the empty chamber, the weapon automatically loads the round and closes the bolt.
See that big tab beneath the barrel? That releases the magazine.
Those four tubes combined are also a removable magazine that makes quick reloads a reality. The SRM 1216 reloads faster than any other shotgun on this list and gives you an immediate 16 rounds on tap. The SRM 1216 utilizes a roller delayed blowback system that makes it easy to fly through those 16 rounds.
Reliability was outstanding.
The controls are ambidextrous, and users can swap the ejection port and charging handle to accommodate righties or lefties. This isn’t super simple, but it can be done by users at home with some simple tools. The SRM 1216 is a blast to shoot, and I mean that literally and figuratively, and is my personal favorite of all these bullpup shotguns.
Who doesn’t love a good shotgun? Who doesn’t love bullpups? Combine the two, and you get a shotgun concept that makes a lot of sense. It’s short and easy to maneuver inside a building, which makes them well suited for defensive use. Of course, you need to load them up with Federal Flitecontrol as well.
Which one is for you? Well, hell, I don’t know. Why don’t you tell me below which you prefer? Let us know why as well.
Nosler recently announced the expansion of their rifle line with the Model 21. It weighs in at roughly 7 pounds depending on the cartridge.
Model 21 Rifle. (Photo courtesy of Nosler)
About the Model 21
A rifle for the next decade, the new Model 21 is a feature-rich production firearm that has the feel and performance of a custom build. Featuring premium components throughout…the Model 21 rifle brings exceptional precision and packable reliability to any hunt.
McMillan Hunters Edge Sporter stock. (Photo courtesy of Nosler)
The heart of the rifle is Nosler’s new Model 21 action, designed in collaboration with Mack Brothers, the reputable South Dakota sibling duo with a growing reputation for building some of the finest rifle actions in the industry. Most notably, their popular EVO action has built an impressive following among serious precision shooters since its introduction in 2018. The newly designed Model 21 blends the best features of the EVO with unique Nosler-engineered customizations, delivering a solid foundation for peak performance right out of the box.
Precision recessed crown with a threaded muzzle. (Photo courtesy of Nosler)
Blueprinted from birth on advanced wire EDM equipment, the Model 21 action was thoughtfully designed to deliver exceptional performance in a user-friendly platform with several built-in custom features throughout. Among these features is a spiral fluted, one-piece, Nitride coated bolt made of 4340 Chrome Moly steel. In addition to a sleek aesthetic, and nearly effortless functioning, the fluted design provides a reduction in weight and helps to channel debris, preventing the bolt from jamming in environments where dirt and sand is an issue. In line with the M21 action’s practical design philosophy, the bolt’s upgraded M16-style extractor and fire control group feature tool-less takedown.
One-piece bolt body machined from a hardened 4340 Chrome Molybdenum billet. [Photo courtesy of Nosler]
“It’s been nearly two decades since we introduced the very first Nosler rifle on our popular Model 48 platform” said John Nosler, President of Nosler Inc. “From day one, we set out to produce some of the most reliable firearms in the industry and our new Model 21 is no exception. This new firearm marks an exciting expansion of the Nosler rifle brand, offering an economical option that bridges the gap between standard production assembly rifles and feature-rich customized builds.”
Top-of-the-line components round out the Model 21 rifle including a crisp, single stage TriggerTech Field model trigger, featuring a user adjustable pull weight of 2.5-5lbs and top safety. A Shilen match grade barrel with a threaded muzzle is hand lapped for the ultimate in bore smoothness, while the lightweight synthetic carbon fiber stock shaves weight off the complete build and provides extreme durability.
TriggerTech Model Trigger. (Photo courtesy of Nosler)
The all-new Nosler Model 21 rifle retails for $2,495 and will be released in popular chamberings including 22 Nosler, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, 26 Nosler, 27 Nosler, 280 Ackley Improved, 28 Nosler, 308 Win, 300 Win Mag, 30 Nosler, 33 Nosler and 375 H&H.
Model 21 Rifle. (Photo courtesy of Nosler)
About Nosler
Founded in 1948, Nosler, Incorporated is a family owned company located in Bend, Ore. Nosler is most known for revolutionizing the hunting bullet industry with bullets such as the Partition, Ballistic Tip, AccuBond, E-Tip and most recently the AccuBond LR and RDF. With the company motto of “Quality First,” Nosler manufactures premium component bullets, reloading brass, ammunition and semi-custom rifles for domestic and international customers making Nosler a comprehensive shooting products company. Nosler products are used worldwide by discriminating hunters, shooters, military and law enforcement professionals and sportsmen.
Gorilla Ammunition recently announced situs judi slot online gampang menang the release of their 16″ 6.5 Creedmoor GF-10 lightweight hunting rifle. It is available now on a limited release. There are several finishes available as well as optic choices.
GF-10 Dark Multicam w/Pulsar Thermion Optic. (Photo courtesy of Gorilla Ammunition)
About the GF-10
Engineered for the elite warfighter, refined for the discriminating sportsman. A decade of delivering cutting edge weapon and ammunition systems to the U.S. Military culminates in the next generation hunting rifle system. Lightweight, extremely accurate, and guaranteed right out of the case.
Available on this initial, limited release are 16″ 6.5 Creedmoor GF-10 Lightweight Hunting rifles. Cerakote patterns available include: Multicam, Dark Multicam, Tiger Stripe, Gorilla Mist, or OD Green.
Weight of empty rifle with no optic is 7.2 lbs. There are slight variations in weights depending on custom options and part deviations.
Please allow 4 to 6 weeks lead time for GF-10 orders. 25% deposit is due at checkout with remaining balance due before shipment.
Gorilla Firearms GF-10 Lightweight Hunting Rifles are manufactured to strict tolerances using only the highest quality components.
Each GF-10 rifle contains
Available optics variations include
Leupold Mark 5HD 3.6-18×44 M5C3 FFP TMR
“Pick up a Mark 5HD 3.6-18x44mm and you’ll feel the difference. It’s up to 20 ounces lighter than other riflescopes in its class, giving you an advantage in the field or at the range. The versatile 3.6-18x magnification range helps you engage close targets, while also giving you the flexibility to reach out to long distances. With three revolutions of elevation adjustment and multiple reticle options, this scope will max out the performance of the latest long-range rifles and ammunition, guaranteed.
“Built around Leupold’s Professional-Grade Optical System, the Mark 5HD offers unmatched light transmission that’s designed to outperform in the most challenging lighting conditions. Its industry leading glare reduction provides a clear image in harsh, direct light, while the resolution and clarity will meet the demands of any professional guide or shooter. Ergonomically designed with more tactile and audible click adjustments, larger numbers, and a high-speed throw lever, the Mark 5HD is built to put accurate fire downrange faster. The unique combination of features, durability, and professional-grade optical performance guarantees that the Mark 5HD can handle any challenge you throw at it. It’s 100% waterproof and fogproof, and like all Leupold riflescopes, it’s designed, machined, and assembled in the USA and guaranteed to perform for life”
“Thermal imaging sensor with NETD <25mK* ensures perfect detail recognition even in the harshest weather conditions with low thermal contrast. The smallest temperature differences will be clearly visible during rainfall, in fog or cold mornings in the most difficult conditions for thermal imaging. Quality fast-aperture germanium optics ensure optimal heat energy transmissivity minimizing noise and improving the details of the scene observed. High quality germanium optics coupled with an advanced thermal imaging sensor ensure an unprecedented detection range of up to 1800 meters – even in complete darkness.”
Vortex Razor HD LHT 3-15×50 G4i BDC (MRAD) Reticle
“One scope to rule them all. From dark-timber whitetails, to executing precision long-range shots on an open-country mule deer, and everything in between – there’s the lightweight, second focal plane Razor HD LHT. Stunning, High Definition optical system delivers a crystal-clear sight picture with tack-sharp resolution. Turn every second of legal shooting light into opportunity. Take to the field with confidence knowing you’ve sacrificed nothing with the Razor HD LHT.”
“Disguised within the form factor of a traditional riflescope lies the power of the Sig Sauer BDX Ballistic Data Xchange. The SIERRA3BDX riflescope provides the hunter an illuminated auto-holdover dot on targets when coupled with a BDX capable KILO rangefinder. Featuring exceptional SpectraCoat lenses, LevelPlex digital anti-cant, and KinETHIC kinetic energy transfer indicator, the SIERRA3BDX is incredibly simple to use. Range a target, put the holdover dot on target, pull the trigger, impact. Sig Sauer’s BDX, just CONNECT THE DOT”
B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. recently introduced the KIJI, a modular, VCSEL-based infrared laser illuminator.
The KIJI Infrared Laser Illumination tool. (Photo courtesy of B.E. Meyers & Co.)
About the KIJI
A Class 3R laser device, similar to the illuminator performance of the MAWL-DA, the KIJI K1-3˚ emits up to 150mw, and the KIJI K1-10˚ emits up to 350mw of flawless infrared laser illumination. Both models feature four programmable power levels and include beam diffuser options to quickly adjust beam power and divergence, ensuring the best irradiance on target for any situation.
As a modular infrared illuminator, KIJI supports a wide variety of use scenarios – from umbrella lighting interior structures, to punching out hundreds of meters on a SPR. KIJI is compatible and interchangeable with most common CR123 300 series white light bodies and mounts, offering near endless versatility in handheld, helmet, weapon, vehicle, or aircraft mounted applications. This laser illuminator is designed to be used with user-preferred and existing aftermarket mounting hardware or remote switching options – making mounting and adoption as simple as using the parts and switching you already know and train with.
The KIJI comes in two models. Combining the included 10° diffuser on KIJI K1-3˚ and the included 40° diffuser on KIJI K1-10˚, KIJI provides users with flexibility in output, beam pattern, and mounting hardware. This makes KIJI is an extremely high-performing and low-cost laser illuminator capable of meeting any IR illumination scenario or platform requirements.
Overcoming photonic barriers in real world situations has never been as easy or as affordable. Both KIJI K1 models contain four Power Levels (PLs) which may be accessed in a variety of activation configurations based on operational need. The activation configuration of a unit can be altered by entering Programming Mode and selecting the corresponding mode from the table in the User Guide.
Indicator Light
The Indicator Light is located just above the B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. product marking. The orientation of the Indicator Light to any given Body the head is attached to will be random. The laser safety warning labels can be found on the reverse side of the device from the Indicator Light.
4 single power modes. (Photo courtesy of B.E. Meyers & Co.)
Aperture Cover, Diffusers & Cowling
The KIJI K1 laser device(s) come equipped with an Aperture Cover that has a built-in external diffuser. The Aperture Cover and diffuser combination serve to protect the laser aperture window, render all output PLs Class 1 (with the diffuser shipped with the particular model as listed below), and provide the user with the ability to quickly change the beam size of the KIJI K1.
The KIJI K1-3° is provided with an aperture cover with a 10° diffuser installed, marked with “10”
The KIJI K1-10° is provided with an aperture cover with a 40° diffuser installed, marked with “40”
Aperture Covers are held in place with a retaining band that can be removed by the user and replaced if necessary. An additional retaining band is included with KIJI K1 kits. Additional Aperture Covers and retaining bands can be purchased separately.
The polymer Cowling around the Head of the device can be independently rotated to orient the flip-open Aperture Cover and to properly expose the Indicator Light. The Cowling serves to retain the aperture cover and is not necessary for function.
6 toggled modes. [Photo courtesy of B.E. Meyers & Co.
Arming, Activation, & Safety
KIJI uses a single (1) 3V CR123 battery. Do NOT use with 6V light bodies.
The device is ARMED once a battery is installed. There is no “ARMED” indicator. To render the device inert the batteries must be removed or the endcap of the device unscrewed a 1/4 turn from the body. Unscrewing the endcap of the device is the preferred method to render a device with a battery installed safe when activation is not necessary.
The activation button on the supplied endcap can function either as a momentary button or clicked-down for constant on. See “Operation Styles” for more information.
Aftermarket remote switches or buttons compatible with CR123 300 series light bodies will operate KIJI. Do not use endcaps that can alter the output power of a normal white light, such as EDC-style “gas pedal” endcaps.
Operation Styles
Programmability is a core component of KIJI with multiple intensity settings and mode combinations, all selectable by the user to ensure optimal performance at the touch of a button. Each model features four power levels and 32-modes of use in three Operation Styles:
Simple (4 Modes)
The KIJI K1 device emits a single output Power Level (PL). The activation switch can be used for either momentary activation or clicked-down for constant on with a push-button endcap.
Cycled (22 Modes)
The KIJI K1 device emits two to four different PLs depending on the mode. Tapping or clicking the activation button quickly will cycle through the available PLs.
The activation button can be clicked-down to or held to stay in that PL until released.
The cycle goes only in a single direction, and does not loop through – consecutive taps on the last PL will stay on that PL until the activation button is released for 1 second.
The direction of the PLs, low to high or high to low, will be determined by the mode.
The Infrared Laser Illumination tool boasts 22 cycle modes. [Photo courtesy of B.E. Meyers & Co.
Toggled (6 Modes)
The KIJI K1 device emits two different PLs. The activation button functions as in the Simple style, however by using the button combination of TAP, TAP, TAP & HOLD, called Triple-Tap, the PL will swap to the other available PL for the Mode. It is not necessary to click-down the activation button during HOLD.
The ‘taps’ for the Toggled Triple-Tap must be within 200ms of each other. Slow taps will not toggle the PL.
This Operation Style is best paired with a remote cable or switch without a click-through function.
Battery Life
KIJI-K1-03
Short Answer: 4hr 15min at full power at full power constant on.
Long Answer: At Power Level 4 (PL4 of 150mw) the KIJI 3 degree will run for approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes (constant on/firing) before output power starts to ramp, and then another 30 min until the output power has fallen to 10% of the original set point (so down to 15mw). So, technically stays on even longer.
KIJI-K1-10:
Short Answer: 1hr 12min at full power constant on.
Long Answer: At Power Level 4 (PL4 of 350mw) will run for approximately 1 hour and 12 minutes (constant on/firing) before power begins to ramp, and then another 46 min until the output power has fallen to 10% of the original set point (so down to 35mw).
Maintenance
The KIJI laser devices requires very little user maintenance outside routine cleaning, lubrication, and O-ring replacement. Remove batteries before maintenance. When well maintained, the KIJI K1 is submersible to 1m for 30 minutes (with B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. supplied Body and Endcap) with an operating temp. range of -20° to 50° C.
KIJI is an EAR controlled product.
B.E. Meyers & Co. will be releasing Infrared Laser Illumination tool orders to resellers the week of 15 November 2021.
