"Game Changer" .22lr Compensator from TandemKross

  Compensator's for small caliber handguns can seem pointless to some. After all, .22lr doesn't have much recoil. But, I tend to believe that all calibers benefit from reduced recoil and muzzle rise. I tend to think TandemKross feels the same way I do. After all, they did send me the Game Changer comp to review.

View fullsize

  I installed the Game Changer on my Ruger 22/45 MKII. The barrel had been previously threaded to the 1/2-28 that the compensator is designed for. So I installed the supplied O-ring that they use as a type of crush washer and seal. Then screwed the Game Changer on and aligned the top holes up.  There is some resistance once the O-ring starts getting pressure on it, but it isn't a lot. This compensator does not have bottom holes/vents. I prefer this to other styles that have vent holes all the way around the compensator. 

View fullsize

  So it is time to tell my experience with the Game Changer. I originally thought the name was a little boisterous, but then I shot it. This little compensator does a great job of reducing the recoil. Since it didn't have much to start with, it took it down to almost nothing! But that's not all, it also reduced the muzzle rise. On a side note. While at a steel challenge match, I was talking with a guy who had been using the Game Changer for a couple of years in rimfire open class. He told me it was his favorite comp. So I am not the only one that likes it. Also when shooting the comp, you can actually see the gases coming out the sides and top. I did not notice it being any louder than without it, but it is only a .22, so it is not like a large caliber with a compensator.

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

  The Game Changer is constructed out of anodized aluminum. It has 4 holes in the top and 4 slots on each side. TandemKross says it has large ports for easy cleaning, and yes, you can get in there to clean out the lead and powder junk. As usual, it has 1/2-28 threads, the standard for rimfires. But there is one thing I don't like about the comp. It has a 1" diameter, so it is larger than the 22/45's barrel, and would also be larger than a 10/22 bull barrel. It is just cosmetic, but it would be nice if it was the same diameter to give firearm a smooth look. At 1.75" long, it is not really long either. It will also fit just about any .22lr that has 1/2-28 threads.

  After shooting the Game Changer a bunch. I've concluded that it lives up to the name. So if you are looking for an "actual" compensator, not just a diffuser, go look at TandemKross. They pretty much are a one stop shop for anything .22lr, not just products for Ruger's. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

.22lr compensator to reduce felt recoil and muzzle rise

Target Market:

Shooters wanting less muzzle rise to get back on target faster

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Reduces Muzzle Rise

• Large openings for ease of cleaning

• Standard 1/2"x28 Threads

• 1" Outside Diameter

• 1.75" Long

• Black Hardcoat Anodizing

• Made in U.S.A.

• Lifetime Guarantee

• Fits: 
• Ruger Mark III
• Ruger Mark III 22/45
• Ruger Mark III 22/45 LITE
• Ruger Mark IV 22/45 Tactical
• Ruger Mark IV 22/45 LITE
• Ruger SR22
• Ruger 10/22
• Ruger 22 Charger pistol
• Browning Buck Mark
• GSG 1911-22
• Savage Arms Mark II TRR-SR
• Walther P22
• SW22 Victory (2016)
• Smith & Wesson M&P®22 Compact
• Smith & Wesson M&P®15-22P pistol

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Black, Branded (has TK Logo), Tandemized (#tandemized on side)

What others are saying?:

Keith @tandemkross.com: 3/5 stars

It's O.K.

Does help with speed of follow up shots. However leading causes accuracy to drop off rapidly.

Jason @E. Arthur Brown: 5/5 stars

Works great on my 22/45

Threaded on great, came down to the right amount of force to snug it on and sits flush with the ports lined up exactly straight up on the top. Definitely can hear the shots, almost louder than before. It seems to tame the already small recoil down even more.

Link to other reviews:

Spotter Up Review

Price point:

MSRP = $34.99

Retail = $34.99 at Brownells

I need it now! Availability:

TandemKross or Brownells

Our Rating:

Pros:

• Reduces recoil

• Reduces muzzle rise

• O-ring seal

• Price

• Made in USA

Cons:

• Diameter Size

• Only Available in Black

 

Score: 8.0 Great

Chad’s Favorite Link:   Axelson Tactical

LaserLyte Trainer 22 LT-LR Review

Training with a 22 caliber pistol or rifle used to be the cheapest way to shoot all day, but these days with ammo availability thats no longer the rule of thumb. While some turn to dry fire practice in the comfort of their own home, there's a limit to knowing precisely if your shots are breaking true at your intended target reference point.

Laser products help achieve precisely that, giving the shooter instantaneous feedback as to where that hypothetical bullet would have gone in relation to your sight picture and trigger press. LaserLyte has produced a number of different caliber laser product that interface directly with your own gun so that you can train with the same controls, weight, and familiarity of your own firearm. The Trainer 22 LT-LR was recently release and is uniquely universal to 22 caliber firearms. Be it 22 lr, 22 short, 22 long, 223 Rem, 22-250 or any other cartridge in the 22 caliber family, the LaserLyte Trainer 22 LT-LR simple installs through the muzzle and into barrels with a minimum length of 1.875" inches. There is a small black plastic arbor on the end of the Trainer that expands when an even smaller screw is tightened, which lets the use firmly install in a barrel with enough friction to prevent it from falling out due to gravity.

I found that for use in a pistol, double action is best to have. That way you don't have to rack the slide and reset the trigger each time, you can just keep pulling that bang switch while pumping up your finger strength in the process.  For my T&E I used a Ruger SR-22, but a revolver or other semi auto with a hammer should work well too. The width of the trainer at its fattest point is about 3/4 of an inch, so depending on your gun of choice it may or may not be wider than the muzzle, thusly interfering with the holstering of the firearm.

The T&E model I received worked during the first day of experimenting but a week or so later when conducting the official review the laser seemed to have some problems. The activation became inconsistent, and then non existent altogether. I did replace the 1x1632 coin battery and it functioned consistently once again, however the brightness of the laser was not enough to activate some LaserLyte Laser Plinking Cans I was testing for another review. I used a different manufacturer's laser boresight to verify the targets functioned properly and that the Trainer was the issue. This is reflected in my rating, which will be updated when the manufacturer gets back to us.

Being 22 caliber, the manufacturer claims it is compatible with multiple 22 caliber platforms, but not specifically any type of model. I found that while it will mount in the barrel of a Ruger MKIII 22lr pistol, a 223 Rem AR-15 Carbine, and a 22-250 bolt action rifle, it will not necessarily activate upon dry firing. The sound and concussion from the trigger/sear/hammer is what makes the laser activate, and the potency of that effect really varies in every firearm. I do believe that longer barrels are a contributor in dampening the sound from reaching the Trainer. Racking the bolt, charging handle, and slide would set off the laser but the dry fire of the trigger in most cases would not. Based on my experience using the firearms I had access to, I would say this product is ideally meant to work best in pistols, even more so in revolvers because the solidarity of the frame would allow the transfer of energy from the hammer to the Trainer most efficiently.

From a design and operation standpoint, the on/off of the Trainer is very minimalistic. You just unscrew slightly to cut the battery off from completing the circuit. This isn't ideal, especially when the exterior of the Trainer has no texture, so big fumbly fingers like mine had difficulty unscrewing the two halves especially if overtightened during use. I had to be extra conscious not to overtighten the Trainer.

Overall I would say that malfunctions aside, this training aid is very useful for dry fire practice indoors, especially when used in combination with a laser compatible electronic target system, like the LaserLyte Reaction Tyme Target (see FI review).

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Simply the easiest way to train without ammo for any of your 22 rimfire pistols.

Target Market: Gun Owners who want to add laser functionality to their dry fire practice, safely and indoors.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product)

• Compatible with: 22LR, 22WMR, 22 Short, 22 Long, .223 REM with at least a 1.875" barrel
• Length: 3.0 inches
• Diameter: .20" Min./ .76 inch Max
• Battery Life: 10,000 shots
• Batteries: 1 x 1632 Lithium
• Activation: Sound of striker or hammer

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  none

What others are saying?:

Price Point:

• MSRP: $120.95
• Retail: $109.99

I need it now! Availability: Readily available at Brownells.com or Amazon.com

Our Rating: UPDATE +-Easy to operate +-Short enough to fit most pocket pistols or snubnose revolvers +-Battery life is high, batteries are hard to find + Tested and confirmed functional in Ruger MKIII Pistol, Ruger SR22 Pistol, Ruger 10/22 rifle, AR15, and Savage 22-250 rifle + Customer Service was very responsive in replacing first malfunctioning laser Trainer with a correctly working model

• No knurling to assist with unscrewing, which is the only way to preserve batter life.  Overtighten= Bad Time

Score: 8.5 Great* *Score increased after initial defective model was replaced and reevalutated

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 

Sig Sauer 1911 .22 Review

Now I am a 1911 guy. I love all 1911’s. Unfortunately this is only my second one I currently own. I purchased the Sig Sauer 1911 .22 so I could train with “cheaper ammo”. I know, what 22LR? Well I have been able to keep a steady supply and its definitely cheaper than .45. Also my son is kinda fond of my Colt 1911 in .45 but is a little to small to shoot it yet. This on the other hand he shoots like a pro. It is a bit picky about ammo and needs the good stuff (hi velocity) tho cycle the slide reliably. Now as it turns out, this pistol is manufactured for Sig Sauer by GSG and GSG seems to sale for about $100 less. Why did I buy the Sig? Because I found it in the store. Also I feel the finish might be a little better compared to the GSG’s I have seem. Or maybe that is my justification for paying more. It came with only one magazine so I went online to purchase extra’s and found that they are about $30 dollars. I also discovered there are few nifty accessories and upgrades for the Sig Sauer/GSG. They make +4 followers for the magazines as well as +1 and +3 base plates. I also discovered an accurizing kit that replaces the guide rod and bushing with stainless parts. Although I have only had this for a short time, I have put 5-600 rounds through it with only a couple of misfeeds. I really like the fit and finish as well as the extended ambi-safety and extended slide release.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Quality, reliable firearms

Target Market:  Plinkers and Practice weapon

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

• 1911-22 Specifications
• Caliber - .22LR Hi-velocity
• Overall Length - 8.5 in
• Overall Height - 5.5 in
• Overall Width - 1.4 in
• Barrel Length - 5.0 in
• Sight Radius - 5.4 in
• Sights - Contrast Sights
• Weight w/Magazine - 2.2 lbs
• Frame Material - Alloy
• Frame Finish - PTFE
• Slide Material - Alloy
• Slide Finish - PTFE
• Magazine Capacity - 10 rounds
• Trigger - SAO
• Trigger Pull† - SAO 4.2 lbs - 5.6 lbs
• Features Skeletonized hammer and trigger

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Comes in Black and Camo.

What others are saying?:    Cabelas

Price Point:

• MSRP = $460.00
• Retail = I paid $365.00

I need it now! Availability:  Readily available at   GunsAmerica and Buds Gunshop

Our Rating:

+ Nice fit and finish + Feels like a standard 1911 + Weight almost the same as a standard 1911 + Most aftermarket 1911 parts are interchangeable + Magazines are comparable in size/weight

- Magazine lockout - Plastic guide rod - Odd looking beavertail grip safety - Requires Hi velocity ammo

Score: 8.5 Great

CMMG .22LR: AR Conversion

Earlier this month I received an email ad from MidwayUSA with this product on sale.  I found the carbon steel version with 3 magazines for $156.87 and  the stainless steel model with 3 magazines for $229.00.  I wanted the stainless steel version but decided to save the additional cost and get a few other items I needed in the same order.  Being that I live not too far away from Midway USA, my package arrived in just two days and I eagerly (with my son’s head in front of mine) opened the box to check it out.  I also decided to try out some FrogLube as well, so we proceeded to follow the Froglube guidelines to clean and lubricate the bolt carrier before initial use.  Saturday morning my son and I went out to our range with the AR, the carbine length barrel and gas system and dropped in the conversion bolt. The target was set at 50 yards and the scope was sighted for 100yds in 223.  We were shooting Federal white box and I was able to shoot the entire magazine without any issues.  I was also able to shoot a group approx 2.5 - 3 inches off hand at a fairly rapid pace.  My son has to use a bench (as he can’t hold it up) and was able to shoot similar groups.  I have not done any real accuracy testing, but initial opinion is that it will suit my needs and I will let my son shoot it more without burning the more expensive 223.  Other reviewers state that continued use of 22LR can block up your gas system and that you should fire some 223 through it regularly to blow out the gas tube.  In all, we shot about 200 rounds without any misfires and I am pleased with my purchase.

Firearms Insider 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  Converts your standard .223/5.56 AR-15 upper to shoot 22LR.

Target Market:  Plinkers and trainers that want to shoot cheaper ammo.

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

• Installs fast and easy
• Relatively accurate

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Carbon steel bolt group, matte black phosphate finish (appears discontinued) and a Stainless steel bolt group.  CMMG Inc.

What others are saying?:  "Conversion works exactly as described, drops in without modification to your AR-15. The slide doesn’t lock open as with the regular bolt carrier group, however the bolt does hang up on the magazine"..  Midway USA

Price point:

• MSRP = $229.95 - $349.95
• Retail = $131.80 (Clearance) - $362.99

I need it now! Availability:  Currently available at Midway USA on clearance.  The link is listed above.

Our Rating:

+ East to install + Reliable

- May not be as accurate as a dedicated upper

Score: 8.5 Great