Taurus PT709 “Slim” Pistol Review

By Justin Goodell

The Taurus PT709 is one of the first handguns I purchased because it fit my criteria: modestly priced, easily concealable 9mm for self-defense. This firearm has a 3.2" barrel, 6.24" length, 4.52" height, and 1.04" width. It weighs in at 19 oz. with an empty magazine. Capacity is 7+1. Sight system is 3-white-dot with a fixed front sight and adjustable rear sight for both windage and elevation. The magazine release is reversible for all of you wrong-handed people, but the slide stop and manual slide safety are not. It is a polymer/blued carbon steel hybrid, also available with a stainless steel slide. Trigger pull is officially listed as 5-7 lbs., and without the proper equipment, I am unable to quantify the trigger pull.

My wife and I have shot around 600 rounds through this gun so far, and I am pretty impressed with the product. However, she is not. She has fired around 200 of those and had 2 failures to feed and 1 failure to extract. I have fired twice the number of rounds and have had zero stoppages of any kind, but it's a habit of mine to strong-arm my handguns. It's possible that those failures have all been from not maintaining a solid grip.

On both sides of the grip frame, just forward and above the trigger guard on either side are little concave grooves. They are very convenient for a trigger finger rest for the dominant hand and the thumb rest for the off hand. They are perfectly placed for my average-sized man hands and assist in attaining the perfect grip consistently, draw after draw. Simple feature, but one of my favorites.

Another thing I would like to mention is that the white paint started to chip off the sights after about 3 months of daily carry with draw/reholster drills with a hybrid leather and kydex IWB holster a few days per week. I attempted to fill the recesses in with some florescent orange nail polish thanks to my wife, but the nail polish seemed to dry somewhat translucent. I removed the nail polish, applied the brightest white model enamel (like the stuff you paint model cars and airplanes with) I could find, and have not had another problem since.

I carry this daily inside the waistband in a leather/kydex holster by Shepperd Leather and have not had any issues with the gun, the holster, or any combination thereof. No accidentally dropping mags, no hang-ups, no sticking. Speaking of magazines dropping, the release is very low-profile but still easy to use. The shape and placement is perfect. The button only actuates when deliberately pressed, yet it's easy to do so.

Finally, the fun factor. I really enjoy taking this gun to the range! It's fun to shoot, makes easy follow-up shots, and is easy to clean, even at the range. It is my everyday carry pistol for now until I can afford to buy something that I can grow into, not out of.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: This gun is very small and thin, allowing a comfortable carry in the waistband or in a pocket holster.

Target Market: The PT709 is intended for concealed carry.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Competitive price
• Manual slide safety if desired
• Adjustable rear sight

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The Taurus PT709 “Slim” is available in black and 2-tone with a stainless steel slide.

What others are saying?: "The PT709 has a bit of a "Glocky" appearance, with a lever in the middle of the trigger and a very Glock-like takedown lever/latch. It is also striker-fired, as is the Glock, but unlike the Glock the PT709 offers a double-action mode which allows you to attempt to fire a round that didn't go bang the first time." - Russ Chastain

Price Point:

• MSRP = $503.73
• Retail = $306.94

I need it now! Availability: You can purchase this pistol from many retailers, including Bud's Gun Shop, Academy and Kentucky Gun Co.

Our Rating:

+ Price + Adjustable sights + Size + Weight + Feel

- 3 failures possibly from sloppy grip

Score: 7.5

VersaCarry Zero Bulk Holster for Ruger LC9 Review

By Larry Lovejoy

As a gun owner new to conceal carry I'm not exactly sure which holster is best for me. I did find however that the Versacarry ZeroBulk holster is not the one for me.  Very uncomfortable to wear. Imagine most gun owners will not like the idea that the retention rod leaves a residue.   I found this holster to be very uncomfortable although small and lightweight. There isn't any padding/leather between the firearm and body as found in other types of holsters. VersaCarry’s “safety warnings” page should give you a clue for what you’re in for. This is probably not a holster that meets your needs.

Holstering Demo

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BmfMOXfbYqs&w=560&h=315]

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Zero Bulk IWB carry

Target Market: Anybody who wants a CHEAP holster

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• There really isn't any unless you consider the trigger guard

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The VersaCarry Zero Bulk Holster only comes in black, but there are many sizes to fit various firearms.

What others are saying?: “Great idea... but for me, my LC9's barrel seemed fused to the yellow plastic rod... at first, it was almost impossible to get it off. I left it on for a couple of weeks as it says in the directions, but it was still very very hard to pull. The packaging says I have the right "holster", but it sure feels like it should be…Read more on Amazon reviews

This products arrived fast and did exactly what it said. I bought this for a ruger lc9 and it sits a little high in the waistband. Small may be a better choice than extra small to get it to sit a little lower. All in all I would definately recommend this product… Read more on Amazon reviews

VersaCarry should be called Very Expensive piece of plastic. It's not scary expensive, but being priced over an actual "holster" puts it in that category. Sure, you can easily access your piece, but when you have to put it away or even just put it on, you have to completely take it off, shove that plastic stud back into the barrel and "shimmy" back inside your pants.

The second and most annoying and disappointing thing about versacarry is there is no shielding between your hammer (if your gun has one) and your body. All day long or even for shorter periods of time.” – Amazon Reviews

Price Point:

• MSRP = $24.99
• Retail = $20.01

I need it now! Availability:

Our Rating:

+ Inexpensive, + Small + Lifetime warranty

- Poor quality - Retention rod leaves residue on gun barrel - Cannot be used outside waistband - Manufacturer recommends that you DO NOT carry a firearm with a live round in chamber

Score: 2

Beretta M9 Pistol Review

By Justin Kepley

A good friend of mine gave me a call one day and asked if I would be interested in taking a CCW class with him. I said "sure, but I do not currently have my own gun, but I can get one for the day of the class".  A week or so before we were scheduled for the CCW class I borrowed a handgun from a family member, we set up some targets to shoot, partly for fun, but to also make sure we could hit what we intended to hit on the day of our class.  That day at our homemade range I was able to shoot a Glock 17, a Smith and Wesson Sigma .40, and a small .22lr revolver.  It had been years since I had shot a gun, but almost instantly I knew I had found my new hobby.

After taking the class and getting my CCW permit, it was time to start shopping for a gun that I would be happy with.  I went into the search with all options open. I started by researching which caliber I would fit my needs the best and when I decided to go with the 9mm I started my homework on the different makes and models of pistols.

I read everything I could get my hands on from varying gun magazines, to online blogs, to a firearm encyclopedia. At that point I had narrowed my search down to just a handful of possibilities. On the polymer side of the coin I was left with the Glock, M&P, and XD and on the non-polymer side I was down to CZ-75B or Beretta 92FS. (It was at this point when a Google search of "Glock, M&P, and XD" lead me to the Gun Guy Radio episodes 20 and 21. I started listening then and have now gone back to listen to all back episodes.)

I borrowed a Glock 17, a CZ-75B, and Beretta 92FS and went to shoot.  After several rounds, I realized that the heavier gun just felt better to me so I knew my choice would be between the Beretta and CZ.  Both felt great in my hands and both shot without any issues. I was still torn until I asked advise from a lifelong friend who has been a member of our military for nearly 20 years, he said "Beretta is a great gun, just heavy for a 9, if you don't mind the weight you will not be disappointed". He also mentioned the M9, stating it was the same as the 92FS except for the military markings and sights.

I think I drove my wife crazy with all of the YouTube videos comparing different guns, most notably Hickok45, or constantly listening to the Firearms Radio Network on my iPhone. I can honestly say that the gun was worth all of the time and research I put into it, I have taught wife and child how to safely handle and shoot the Beretta.  And to this point I have not had a single failure to feed, stovepipe, Hang fire, or any other malfunctions.  All in all if you are looking for a solid gun for home protection I would highly recommend the Beretta 92FS/M9 platform.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Home Defense,Target/Range shooting, Military/Law Enforcement, Collection (military history)

Target Market: Military, possibly Law Enforcement, Collector.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Reliability,
• Ease of Field Strip,
• Durability,
• Weight helps with staying on target.
• Dot-and-Post site system.
• Safety/De-cocker

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The Beretta M9 Pistol is only available in black but the 92(its “civilian” variant) is available in various configurations, even .40 cal.

What others are saying?: “Great performance on the range. This is a man's pistol. A true warrior that replaced the 45 ACP 1911 service pistol. The Beretta M9 (or 92FS) is the most tested pistol since the M1911-A1. Used by the U.S. Military and thousands of police officers. Beretta 92 pistols with over 75,000 rounds have been reported. This solid designed pistol is what replaced so many police revolvers. Nothing shoots better than a well used Beretta 92FS. Allow about 300 rounds for break-in. Good long range pistol. I can hit the 50 yard gong over and over again. Easy to find magazines and holsters for this popular gun. The Italian made ones are tight! See the new 92-A1 with 1913 Picatinny rail.” -  best9mm.com

Price Point:

• MSRP = $695.00
• Retail = $568.56

I need it now! Availability: This pistol is available from many retailers, including Bud's Gun Shop and Impact Guns.

Our Rating:

+ Ergonomics + Balanced

- Too large for concealed carry

Score: 8.5

Image via m700, The Firing Line

Suunto Core Watch Review

By Jeremy Linares

If that Timex isn’t cutting it anymore and you want to step your game up, the Suunto Core does everything but tie your shoes for you. The all black model that I purchased is the perfect blend of tactical and practical. Made in Finland, this is much more than your standard digital timepiece. The watch features an altimeter, barometer and digital compass which means it’ll tell you the elevation, air pressure and you should be able to figure that last one out for yourself. My favorite function of this watch is the storm alert, where it judges changes in air pressure over a period of time and alerts you that it’s about to get nasty out. I’ve found all of these functions have been extremely accurate to their analog counterparts. I like to think that if I was dropped in the middle of the backcountry, this watch would be the key to safely making my way to civilization.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Highly accurate ABC watch.

Target Market: The tactical community, preppers and the outdoorsmen

FNB's (features & benefits of this product):

• Altimeter
• Barometer
• Digital Compass
• Temperature
• Backlight
• Sunrise/Sunset Time
• Military/standard time
• Timer
• Stopwatch
• Storm Alert
• Waterproof to 100ft
• Accurate up to 29,150 ft. above sea level

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Available in all Black, regular black, Sahara yellow, aluminum black, dusk gray and pure white.

What others are saying? : People are overall pleased with the watch and its capabilities.  Suunto Reviews

Price Point:

• MSRP: $299
• Retail: $189

I need it now! Availability: Readily available online at stores such as OpticsPlanet and REI.

Our Rating:

+ Accuracy + Quality + Bombproof + Good Looks + Storm Alert

-Price

Score: 8.0 Great

SABRE Red Pepper Spray Keychain Review

By Bradley Johnson

There are times when carrying a firearm for protection is not an option. Born and raised in California, I have never had that right (Although I remain hopeful). I daily carry a variety of folding knives. Knives are a viable option for self-defense. I've trained in Kali Silat for years, but like all self-defense tactics, it is a perishable skill. It also requires hand to hand/close contact. Most people don't train with the knives they carry, and this is why I believe that pepper spray would be a better option for people to protect themselves.

Sabre Red pepper spray is used by both law enforcement officers, and civilians to ensure their safety. Although this version is pink, they offer it in black as well. I think that it's great that Security Equipment Corporation (Sabre Red) has partnered with the National Breast Cancer Foundation. To date, they have donated over $600,000 to the foundation. I think that the ethics of a company are as important as the product they sell. As if that weren't enough, it's also made in the U.S.A!

This model delivers 25 "blasts" of pepper spray at a range of 10 feet. It's small enough to toss in your pocket (or purse), and comes with a quick detach key ring should you choose to attach it to your key ring.

The Sabre Red formula is maximum strength, and the canister features ballistic stream delivery which reduces wind blow back. The tab on top must be slid counter clockwise to engage (a safety feature), and has a textured edge to help your thumb grab hold.  I like that it is pink because people don't immediately realize what it is. As with any type of self-defense, practice is essential. Sabre offers practice spray, and targets. They also offer videos, and training. If you purchase from their website then you can add practice spray for only $4.99. The practice spray comes with a how to video, practice tips, and a target! They also have a price break for quantities of 10 or more (10% off, and free shipping).

I was so happy with this product that I purchased more for all of my family members. There are several different models to choose from, so check out their website, and see what will work best for you.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: The world’s most popular pepper spray for both professional and personal safety!

Target Market: Law Enforcement, and Civilians

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Maximum Strength
• 5x more pepper spray than other brands
• Free safety tips
• 5x more pepper spray than competitors
• Maximum strength
• Pink model helps fight cancer with a donation to the National Breast Cancer Foundation for every unit sold.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Sabre Red Pepper Spray Keychain is available in pink and black.

What others are saying?: “I've been carrying and using this pepper spray for several years and it works great, it has come in handy while dealing with several perps. I recommend this product to any officer. I'm taser certified and I still carry this pepper spray also.” - bpd4, Police Link Reviewer

“Several months ago, I bought a Saber Red Pepper Spray Keychain and I am so glad to have it. I feel confident in my ability to use it and love the size, shape and ease of use it provides. Mine is pink, too, because Saber Red donates a portion of proceeds from the pink Pepper Sprays to Breast Cancer Research! Win-win!” - Meghan, Running with Sole

Price Point:

• MSRP = $11.99
• Retail = $8.79

I need it now! Availability: You can purchase this pepper spray from many retailers, including  Amazon, Walmart, and directly from SABRE Red.

Our Rating:

+ Maximum Strength + More bursts

- Short effective distance

Score: 8.0

Brownells Oxpho-Blue Review

By Bradley Johnson

I had heard good things about Brownells, but this was my first experience with one of their products.

I recently purchased a Lee Enfield rifle. It came with a 5 round hunting magazine. 5 round magazines were never produced for this rifle. In order to make this rifle legal for deer hunting, Bubba took a hack saw, and a blow torch to a standard 10 round mag.

As you can see in the photo, brass was used to solder the bottom of the mag to the chopped upper portion. The mag was in terrible shape when I received it. I spent a lot of time stripping the spray paint, and smoothing out a lot of the rough sanding/scrape marks. I knew that the blue would not take to the brass, but I wanted to restore the magazine as well as possible.

I chose the creme formula because it allows for more control. The liquid variant does a great job as well, but I felt that the viscosity of the creme would be beneficial. I found it easy to use, and the results were terrific! I know that nothing can come close to a traditional hot blue, but Brownells Oxpho-Blue is definitely the next best thing.

The key to success is preparation. It is important to remove any previous finish, and polish the surface. Degreasing the metal is not required, but I would recommend it (I used Acetone). Heating the metal is also not required. However, I would highly recommend it. I've worked with metal for years, and I can tell you from experience that warm metal will accept a treatment far better than cold.

My process: 1. Polish 2. Degrease 3. Heat 4. Apply Oxpho-Blue 5. Remove Oxpho-Blue with a used clean T-shirt 6. Polish with 0000 Steel Wool 7. Repeat steps 3-6 until desired finish is achieved 8. Flush with hot water to stop the action of the acid 9. Apply oil or CLP to all blued surfaces and let cure over night 10. wipe down the following day

For only $10, I was able to refinish this magazine (with plenty of creme left for future projects). It would also be nice to use for small touch-ups on the high wear areas of hot blued parts. It is by no means a replacement for traditional hot blue. However, I am really satisfied with this product.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: The toughest cold blue. Application is reasonably simple.

Target Market: All shooting enthusiasts, and collectors.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

•  Creme formula offers more control
•  Brownells oxpho-blue offers a high level of protection without the cost of traditional hot blue

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Bluing is a color, in itself, so is only available in one color.

What others are saying?: “I started trying to remove the Oxpho-Blue from the barrel with 000 cleaned steel wool. The more I tried to remove the blue it started getting an even polished lustrous blue finish over the whole gun. I wanted it darker so I put a very small amount of blue on 000 cleaned steel wool and would rub it with some pressure on the gun until it dried. After letting it set for a few minutes I would burnish the dried blue and it got better and better. Repeated this 6 times. It only took about 2 hours to do this.

My friend cannot believe how good the blue job looks, far exceeded his and my expectations.” - Cabelas Customer Review

Price Point:

• MSRP = $9.99
• Retail = $14.99

I need it now! Availability: You can purchase Brownells Oxpho-Blue from Brownells  and Cabela's.

Our Rating:

+ Low cost + Ease of use

- Not as durable as hot blue

Score: 8.5

Sig Sauer 1911-22 Pistol Review

 

By Bradley Johnson

I know what you're thinking; "Why would I want a 1911 that shoots .22?" Well, the answer is simple, because it's a blast!

This Sig Sauer (formerly GSG) 1911-22 is a full size 1911. The operation, and ergonomics are identical to a Colt M1911A1 pistol. In fact, many parts are interchangeable with a standard 1911-45. However, unlike the M1911A1, ammo doesn't cost an arm and a leg. It's this very reason that many people opt to supplement their training with a .22LR.

It comes in a decent hard shell, foam lined case. Included in the case are Allen keys (needed for takedown), 2 magazines, a pistol lock, a replacement guide rod buffer disc, a chamber brush, and 2 front sight posts(2 sizes).

One of the really cool additional features of this (well, not this one, because I reside in California) pistol is that the barrel is threaded by the factory. Unfortunately, the cap on my pistol is fixed due to my state of residence.

Take down is very similar to a standard 1911. However, there are additional pins that require the use of an Allen key. I was originally bothered by this, but it's not a deal breaker.

The pistol is made of some type of alloy, and as such cannot be finished with a traditional hot blue. I suppose this was done to keep the cost down. The finish is not great. It seems like some type of paint, and it scratched/wears easily if you're not careful. It is my biggest complaint about the pistol. Another area of concern are the sights. They're bright, and it's easy to get a good sight picture, but they're made of plastic! Perhaps this is why they supply a replacement front sight in the kit.

At the range, this pistol performed beautifully. I used the recommended CCI Mini Mag for the break-in period, and did not have a single misfeed, or failure to eject. Since the break-in period, I have fed several other brands of ammo thru it without any problems. Considering the price point, I feel that the accuracy of this pistol is excellent. The wood grips feel pretty good in my hands, and if they're not your cup of tea then just replace them with your favorite 1911 grips. Overall, I am very pleased with this purchase.

 Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Full size 1911. Same ergonomics and manual of arms as a Colt M1911A1 with a low Price point.

Target Market: I think this pistol will appeal to anyone looking to have some fun at the range. Additionally, it is a great trainer companion to people who already own a 1911-45.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• 2 Magazines included
•  Replacement sight, and taller sight post to adjust for elevation
•  Nearly identical to a M1911A1, but at a lower cost than the competitors (1911-22 competitors)
•  Skeletonized hammer and trigger

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The Sig Sauer 1911-22 Pistol is available in black, OD green, flat dark earth, and camo.

What others are saying?: "The last ten shots were fired as fast as I could pull the trigger just looking to see how the pistol cycled without worrying much about accuracy. To my surprise it was flawless and I can tell it will burn up ammo if you let it!" - Tallgrass, MarlinOwners.com

Price Point:

• MSRP = $460.00
• Retail = $399.99

I need it now! Availability: This pistol is available from many retailers, including Cabelas and Bud's Gun Shop

Our Rating:

+ Accurate + Reliable + 2 Magazines

- Finish - Plastic Sights

Score: 7.5 

SightMark UltraShot Pro Spec NV QD Reflex Sight Review

By Warner Peredes

The SightMark Pro Spec NV QD is a entry level reflex sight with the makings to be a viable option on your AR or other modern sporting rifle. This is a well-built reflex sight with the AR red coated lens surrounded by aluminum construction similar to much more expensive EOTechs. The glass itself is dual layered and durable with torture testing  videos posted on YouTube from the company itself! This model comes with a quick detach mount, NV compatible (3 settings), 4 pattern reticles, and 3 brightness settings. The reticles are extremely clear and visible during daytime operations and better at night. I have used this sight in Belgium and it held up with no problem. On a side note, during a trek through thorn bushes the QD mount lever snagged on some vines and ripped the optic off my rifle. This is not the optics fault, but a reason to keep in mind why some mounts are better fixed and not QD. Came with manual, cloth, wrench, and battery.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: If you are not deploying or using this as your only survival rifle optic, this is an affordable choice to have on multiple AR uppers or other rifles. The company states clearly that this is tested to withstand calibers up to .50 caliber! The Pro Spec runs around $120.00 with sales taking it down to almost $80.00 at certain times of the year.

Target Market: This is an awesome range time or even good enough to take to a rifle class. The best way to test its performance is taking it out and testing it. The company does not advocate using it in wet conditions! Its water-resistant, not water-proof.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Magnification: x1
• Objective: 30x24mm
• View: 36meters@100 yards
• Eye Relief: unlimited
• Coating: AR red
• Reticle: 4 patterns
• MOA:1"
• Battery:CR1632 (20hrs on high)
• Battery Settings: 1-3, NV1-NV2
• Temp:-10-50(c)
• Weight:7.7 oz

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The SightMark UltraShot Pro Spec NV QD Reflex Sight is only available in black.

What others are saying?: “Have owned 2 of these for over a year. Both have held up wonderfully. I found out the hard way that they are waterproof and VERY shock resistant. I've dropped mine and it held zero like a champ.

This is not meant to compete with the EOtech or Aimpoint units; however, it does. The only downside is the low battery life (only 2-2.5 hours of actual operation time on high power). I usually take a couple of extra batteries with me anytime I go on a trip.

If you plan on using a zoom behind this unit, you'll want to get one that mounts low or get a riser for the sight (they don't line up very well).

Best $100 I ever spent!” - Amazon Customer Review

Price Point:

• MSRP = $155.99
• Retail = $114.00

I need it now! Availability: This reflex sight is available from multiple retailers, including Amazon, Optics Planet, and directly from SightMark.

Our Rating:

+ Cheap + Well-built + NV compatible + Bright

- QD mount needed tweaking to stay super tight on 1913 rails (electrical tape)

 Score: 8.5

CRKT M16-14SF Folding Knife Review

By Dustin Bornman

The CRKT M16-14SF, has become a staple in my collection of knifes. I rarely leave home without this in my pocket. I love the balance, the blade and the tactical capacity of this knife. The pocket clip can be moved to one of 4 locations depending on the users desired carry position. In the position that I prefer the clip to be in, the blade is up and facing rearward in the right front pocket. If you pull the knife straight up and slightly forward, the blade stays closed. But if pulled upward and slightly rearward, the blade automatically opens and is ready for use. This is by far, the best option from a tactical standpoint for me.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: This is just an overall well built knife that carries well and holds an edge at an above average level.

Target Market: I think this is a great knife for anyone wishing to carry daily.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Tanto point
• Serrated blade
• It also has a double blade lock that basically makes the knife a fixed blade.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The CRKT M16-14SF folding knife is available in black and tan.

What others are saying?: “I purchased this knife as an EDC to add to my collection. It's extremely well made, easy to hold and open. Closing the blade is somewhat difficult which maybe a concern to some. The blade is very sharp with a thick back bone very strong. The LAWKS locking system makes this folder almost a fixed blade. The flipper is quite fast almost as fast as my assisted folders! I love this knife.” - Knife Center Customer Reviewer John D.

“This knife is amazing. It fits snuggly in my pocket, but is burly enough to chop tree branches for kindling. The dual flips act as a hilt, giving it the feel and balance of a full-tang blade. The handle is light aluminum with a durable coating, but the steel maintains its edge better than any knife I’ve owned, so the tip is always ready for fine cutting. The serrated base of the blade comes in handy for skinning game or cutting rope, and is easy to sharpen with the right tool.” - T.S. Wallace, The Adventures of Man

Price Point:

• MSRP = $135.00
• Retail = $71.44

I need it now! Availability: This knife is available from many retailers, including Knife Center, Amazon, and directly from CRKT.

Our Rating:

+ Tactical opening + Size + Balance

- Handle is slightly slick

Score: 9.0 Amazing

Simply Rugged - Silver Dollar Pancake

By Alex P.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  High quality and allows for several different carry options.

Target Market: EDC (every day carry) people that want maximum concealment in IWB (in waste band) mode or relaxed OWD (outer waste band) carry.

FNB's:  (Features and Benefits of this product)

• Scaled down for smaller revolvers
• Retain gun with no strap
• Designed to be work strong hand or cross draw
• Bottom of holster is open to allow grit, etc. to pass through

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Tan, black and oxblood.  Also, these holsters are highly customizable.  Check out their website for examples of how you can tailor yours.  Simply Rugged

What others are saying?: "The Silver Dollar makes for extraordinarily comfy carrying. It rides at just the right height (for me, anyway) and doesn’t dig in while sitting either at the computer or behind the wheel.”  The Truth About Guns

Price point:

• MSRP = $ 50.00
• Retail = Only available through the manufacturer

I need it now! Availability: I am yet to locate this holster on any other sites, but it is readily available on Simply Rugged.

Our Rating:

+ Low entry price + Several different carry options + Highly customizable

- Slightly bulky - Customer service is somewhat lacking - A bit awkward going between IWB straps and OWB belt loops - OWB belt loops are not compatible with many of the thicker gun belts

 Score: 7.0 Good

Aimpoint Micro T-1 (2 moa)

 By Agent95

For all the readers that own an AR-15, I am sure you will agree that “we all need a run and gun AR”.  As for me, I made sure I had one for myself and one for my wife.  I've spent money on cheap optics in the past and realized that I needed something reliable.  As I searched for a new optic, the Aimpoint Micro T-1 started to get my attention.  This optic had many reviews which raved about its reliability, so I thought I’d give it a try.  The box arrived at my doorstep and I couldn't wait to have this little guy installed to go shooting with.  I wanted a lower 1/3 cowitness but the T-1 did not come with the mount I needed for my AR.  As such, I ended up purchasing a Larue mount which was perfect.  Once everything was set up, I paid the local outdoor range a visit.  The Aimpoint is very, very, and I mean VERY LIGHT weight! Only weighing in at 3 oz  (red-dot only), I knew my go to AR would be a lightweight rifle.  The T-1 has 4 night vision settings along with 8 daylight settings, which go from dim to very bright.  Each brightness setting was perfect for any type scenario.  The one thing that I absolutely love about this red-dot is the battery life.  The red-dot may stay on a constant “on” for a minimum of 50,000 hours.  That is over 5 years on a single watch battery setting “9”, which is bright enough for most situations.  This gives me the opportunity to leave the red-dot on and not worry about fumbling to turn it on during a high stress situation.  The T-1 is also fully waterproof up to 80 feet.  I heard that you can put a bullet through it and it will still be 100% fully functional for duty. Maybe I’ll do a torture test like it in the future.  One thing I didn't like too much are the rubber bikini covers.  They seemed a bit weak and I will most likely lose them in the near future.  The windage and elevation adjustments are located under 2 small caps, which can be hard to adjust but it didn't bother me too much.  Once I had it dialed for 50 yards, it was perfect.  Overall, this is an amazing red-dot and I can confidently say that it will stay in the family for a long long time.  Is it worth the money?  I would say yes.  It is expensive, but you can never put a price on something you can depend your life on.  Its lightweight, its reliable and it will never break on you.  Who wouldn't want that?

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  Reliability, battery life, lightweight design.

Target Market:  Military, law enforcement and civilian.

FNBs:  (Features & Benefits of this product)

• Windage and elevation
• A lot of support in mounts and covers
• Hard anodized, non-reflective finish
• Available in 2 and 4 moa
• 12 brightness settings
• Lightweight
• Very durable

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black

What others are saying?:  Ammo Land

Price point:

MSRP = $678.99  Aim Point Retail  = $649.99  Primary Arms

I need it now! Availability:  You can easily find this product readily available at Brownells or Primary Arms.

Our Rating:

+ Small and lightweight + Durable + 12 light settings. Bright for indoors and outdoors + Long lasting battery

Score: 9.5

Sig Sauer M11-A1

By Kirby Yau

I’ve had a love affair with Sig Sauer P228 since I first saw it in the Clint Eastwood Secret Service action thriller In the Line of Fire. The compact P226 has been used in Hollywood hits like, the X-Files, The Sentinel, NCIS, and NCIS – LA. It’s mostly portrayed as the quintessential good guy Fed gun that only fed my desire.

When Sig Sauer announced in 2012 it was producing a new set of P228s, naming it the M11 A-1 and intentionally hyping it’s military pedigree; it garnered interest from me and other Sig admirers old and new. When technical specifications of the M11 A-1 were made public, the numbers indicated that the 2012 reissue of the M11-A-1 were merely P229s with P228 pressed into the handgrips.

Despite sharing the M11, military designation, the M11 A-1 shares more with the P229 than the Military/LEO issued M11/P228. Instead of a stamped steel slide, the M11 A-1 shares the milled stainless steel slide of the P229. The M11A-1/P229 weighs in at 32 oz., a whole ounce more than the P228.

Both weapons are the same height but the M11 A-1 is slightly thicker being built off of the P229 frame. P228 magazines are interchangeable with M11-A1 despite the M11-A1 shipping with P229-1 Magazines. P229-1 magazines will not work in the P228.

All the Sig controls are where you expect them to be. The M11-A1 has a UID sticker which is more of a marketing gimmick than utilitarian.

The Key difference on the right side of the firearm includes the long extractor on the M11 A-1. Although the long extractor garners lots of bad Internet press, I experienced zero issues after putting 300 rounds through the barrel with all rounds feeding and extract properly.

The short reach trigger/thin trigger is a deviation from the P228’s standard trigger, which is a welcome addition to my Medium-large hands. It felt very comfortable with every trigger pull, but I do miss the trigger ridges from the P228.

SIGLITE® Night Sights are standard on the M11 A-1 (left) and a bright and sharp compared to the same SIGLITE® Night Sights on the older P228. Understandable since the tritium inserts which dim after time.

A unique feature of the M11-A1 is the laser etched SIG insignia on the top of the slide. Personally I don’t think it adds or detracts to the design.

I really wanted to dislike the M11-A1 and treat it like the bastard child of the much beloved P228, but I really LOVE it.  I hate to say it but I feel it balances better than the P228 in my hand. I shoot it more accurately than the P228. I’m afraid to say it, but the M11-A1 is better than my P228.

The M11-A1 is a great value that includes features such as a Short Reset Trigger, night sights, chrome lined barrel, phosphate coated internals, and three magazines for a price similar to others in the P229.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: It’s a solid platform for a “compact” pistol.

Target Market:  People who want a Sig with a military pedigree.

FNB's (Features and Benefits of this product)

• Phosphate coated internals
• Chrome lined barrel
• Nitron finish
• Three magazines
• Short Reach Trigger
• Short Reset Trigger
• SIGLITE® Night Sights

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available? (Sig Nitron, Sig FDE M11- A1 D )

What others are saying?  NRApubs,  American Rifleman

Price point:

• MSRP = $1,125
• Retail = $959.99

I need it now! Availability: Impact Guns

Our Rating:

+ 3 magazines + Phosphate internals + Short Reach Trigger + Short Reset Trigger + Bright Side Night sights

- Magazine voucher for third magazine - Have not received magazine for three months - The MIL-STD UID Label wears easily and quickly - Serves no purpose other than being a marketing tool

Score 9.5

Midwest Industries Gen 2 SS FF Handguard

By Agent 95

As I began to think about building my next precision rifle, I realized I wanted something lightweight and reliable.  A rifle that I can run around with (If ever needed to) without carrying too much weight. With this in mind, I knew it would be nearly impossible to have a lightweight 20” rifle, but I would try to make it as light as possible while keeping the sexy look of the AR-15.  This is when I came across the Midwest Industries Gen 2 SS FF Handguard.

I’m sure most of you readers know or have heard about Midwest Industries and their customer service. With their reputation, I decided to pull the trigger on their handguard. One thing that really attracted me to this product was the price, the design and its weight. At the time of purchase, I knew this rail would fit the bill.

MI offers this rail in various lengths to fit the look you want for your AR-15. The lengths and weight of the rails they offer are 7” (7.1oz), 9” (8.3oz), 10” (8.6oz), 12” (9.3oz) and 15” (10.9oz).

The rail will come in a sealed hard plastic cover that includes the rail itself, three (3) modular rail sections including a bipod stud, MI barrel nut wrench and a MI proprietary barrel nut. The rail has 2 studs, which fits perfectly with the barrel nut to prevent any rotation. The barrel nut also has a checkered cut design that is designed to prevent rotation of the handguard.

Overall, the Midwest industries really hit the spot on this handguard. It’s lightweight, durable and easy to handle. Who wouldn’t want to get their hands on a piece like this?

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 key points

Claim to Fame:  Lightweight and tough build.

Target Market:  3 gun shooters, run and gun shooters, recreational shooting.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product)

Key Features:

• 6061 Aluminum.
• Hard Coat Anodizing.
• 1.5” outside diameter.
• Free floating.
• Lightweight.
• Great length selection for all builds.

What aesthetic options or finishes are available? It comes in Black, Flat Dark Earth and Olive Drab Green. Weights and Lengths are listed in my description above.

What others are saying?

• Tactical Gun Review
• Colddeadhands.us

Price point

• MSRP = $139.95-$189.95 (Special Pricing from MI at the moment)
• Retail  = $139.95-$189.95

I need it now! Availability

Brownells, and many other locations.

Our Rating +Very comfortable to hold. +Extremely lightweight. +One piece free float design. +Great value for what you get.

-Since the rail’s diameter is so small, it is more prone to heat after rapid fire.

Score = 9.0