Apex Tactical Duty/Carry Kit & AEK Trigger

Not unlike other popular polymer striker fire pistols, the S&W M&P has factory internals that are meant to be a common denominator for all gun owners. While it's perfectly satisfactory for most gunsumers, Apex Tactical manufactures Action Enhancement Kits, or AEKs, to suit your competitive, duty, or carry needs. The Apex Tactical Duty/Carry Kit & AEK Trigger are two products I was recommended to add to my S&W M&Pc pistol to give the already decent performance and accuracy a bit of a "polish."

The Duty/Carry AEK kit is compatible with S&W M&P Full Size, Compact, Long Slide and Pro Models, with or without thumb safeties and magazine disconnects. It is not compatible with the M&P Shield or .45ACP M&P pistols.

The kit includes an APEX fully machined sear, APEX M&P Ultimate Striker Block Kit (Ultimate Striker Block, USB Spring, Talon Tactical Tool) and Duty Carry Spring Set (Sear Spring,  Trigger Return Spring, aluminum slave pin). All those modiciation parts work in conjunction to shorten over-travel of the trigger and create a smoother pull, all while keeping the pistol at a safe 5-5.5 lb trigger pull weight for Duty/Carry applications. I know many of you have heard/read already the saying, "You don't want to have to explain to a prosecutor in court why you modified your defensive weapon with a lightened trigger" but there's a reason why all LEO and military keep their sidearm triggers in the 5lb range, and for a non-competition pistol you plan on using for personal defense its a good idea to follow step.

The AEK Trigger Kit is compatible with all S&W M&P Pistols including the 45 ACP models. It directly replaces the factory hinged trigger with a solid body machined aluminum trigger (a lower price polymer trigger is also available) that has a center mounted pivoting safety.  The flat target style trigger purposefully forces the shooter's finger on the center line of the trigger and encourages trigger manipulation directly to the rear, which leads to better accuracy.  The reduced pre-travel and over-travel is approximately a 20% difference from the S&W factory trigger.

I found that installing the Duty/Carry Kit was fairly straight forward when watching the Apex Tactical instructional Youtube video (Part 1 and Part 2). The only hangup I had was connecting the AEK trigger to the trigger bar. Despite being preset from Apex, it refused to budge for me. In fact, I broke a cheap punch on it after wailing repeatedly with far too much force than what should have been necessary. I had to use a bench vice to start the pin even more, which was then too far for the trigger bar to be attached. A quick visit to the gunsmith took care of it, and he was in agreement that the pin in question was unusually stubborn.

After installation of both the AEK Trigger Kit and the Duty/Carry kit, I found that the trigger pull was indeed very smooth and the distance for both pre-travel and over-travel were much shorter than before. The reset however disappeared almost completely, and will take some getting used to at the range as it feels like a competition trigger. I was able to bump the trigger and get unintended double taps, but installing the Reset Assist Mechanism (RAM Kit) next should reproduce a proper reset and an overall safer carry pistol.

I would recommend these kits to any M&P owner who is wanting a better trigger pull and tighter groups. It does take some getting used to, and if you have never disassembled a striker fired pistol beyond whats needed for cleaning I would recommend either taking it to a gunsmith or studying up on the Youtube videos repeatedly before taking it on yourself.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: The AEK Trigger is an enhanced trigger for the Smith & Wesson M&P Pistols, reducing  trigger pre-travel and over travel.

The Duty/Carry Action Enhancement Kit delivers a smooth, consistent 5½ lb. trigger pull with less over-travel and shorter reset for an improved performance of your pistol while maintaining its safety features for daily carry.

Target Market: Law Enforcement, competition shooters, and individuals who own a S&W M&P

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Center Mounted Pivoting Safety bar
• Reduced trigger pre-travel & over-travel by approximately 20%
• Flat, smooth face trigger encourages trigger manipulation directly in line with the bore axis
• Trigger Return Spring
• Limited pre-travel, limited over-travel, and improved safety features out of the AEK Trigger
• Retain the factory sear spring to get a slightly lighter 5 lb. pull.
• Installation Slave Pin
• Both kits engineered for a drop-in fit, though gunsmith installation is recommended.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: N/A

What others are saying?: "As a 1911 shooter, moving to any plastic gun is a challenge to shoot well. I am spoiled on 1911 triggers. This kit comes close to what I am used to on a 1911. A bit more take up, but otherwise smooth, light and crisp release and reset. My groups improved greatly and rival those of my 1911. A bit pricey to pay 150.00 for a trigger on a 400.00 gun. But if this is your carry gun, worth it." -Lawrence Plasek, Apex Tactical Website Review

Price point:

AEK Trigger: MSRP = $76.99 Retail = Same price on Brownells

Duty/Carry Action Enhancement Kit: MSRP = $92.95 Retail = Same price on Brownells

I need it now! Availability Available on Brownells or direct thru Apex Tactical

Our Rating:

Pros:

• Creates a very smooth, consistent trigger pull that feels lighter than standard 5-5.5lbs
• Online videos available to assist with each process
• Shorter over-travel and shortened trigger reset.
• The kit itself is engineered to be drop-in and should not require further gunsmithing (however, armorer or gunsmith installation is recommended).

Cons:

• The kit itself is engineered to be drop-in and should not require further gunsmithing, however AEK trigger pin was unusually stubborn and needed persuasion from my smith.
• Trigger reset is not tangible and barely audible, Reset Assist Mechanism is probably needed to finish off the kit for my carry purposes.

Score: 8.0

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast link

Graphic Design and Web Design services www.hunterofdesign.com

Kahr CM9 Review

The Kahr CM9 is Kahr Arms' budget priced, polymer framed, micro-compact 9mm with a stainless steel slide. When I say budget, what it means is this: Standard rifled barrel instead of a polygonal rifled one, a staked polymer front sight and not a dovetailed in metal front post, a MIM (metal injected molded) slide stop as opposed to a machined one, and a less machined slide. All of these steps reduce the cost of the CM9, but don't be mislead, this is still a quality firearm. As with all of the Kahr firearms, this one is a striker fired double action only. The trigger has a long, but super smooth pull. The CM9 comes from the factory with 1 six round flush fit magazine. Other magazines are available, and it will take the original K9 7 round magazines but they will stick out the bottom by about 1/2". When I measure the pistol the length is 5.7" and the height is 4.25" with the magazine inserted. The width is as advertised at .90". The weight fully loaded with 7 115gr Cor-Bon's comes in at 21oz's. The pistol uses a standard lock breech tilting barrel Browning style system. Included within the slide is a passive striker block to help prevent accidental firing if the gun were to be dropped or something to that affect. Disassembly is very easy also. Make sure the firearm is unloaded and there isn't a magazine in the gun.  Slide the slide back about 1/2" until the crescent shaped cut out is in line with the slide stop, then push the slide stop pin out from the other side.  Release the slide, and as slightly pulling the slide forward, pull the trigger and the slide will slide right off. Being that the Kahr CM9 is small and lightweight, it lends itself to being a dedicated concealed carry pistol. The pistol is easily concealed under a t-shirt with a good IWB holster. If you are of larger stature, it could even be considered a pocket pistol. How does it shoot, you ask?  It shoots as one would expect for a micro 9mm pistol.  I could keep all my shots under 3" at 10 yards with all the ammo I fed it. The gun's recoil is VERY snappy, as one would expect from such a small powerful pistol. If you are recoil sensitive, this might not be the pistol for you. Also if you are new to shooting, the CM9 might be too much gun to handle. Kahr says to give the pistol a 200 round break-in period. In the first 100 rounds I fired, I had about 10 rounds of Speer Gold Dot 124gr +p cause the slide to lock back with rounds still in the magazine. These were the only malfunctions I have had with the pistol. After breaking in the pistol, I fired 50 rounds of the same Speer Gold Dot's without a single problem. All the other types of ammo I tried shot flawlessly.

If you are looking for a small lightweight carry pistol, this might be one to consider.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Small, inexpensive, lightweight, sub-compact 9mm pistol

Target Market: Concealed Carry

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Caliber: 9mm
• Capacity: 6+1
• Operation: Trigger cocking DAO; lock breech; "Browning - type" recoil lug; passive striker block; no magazine disconnect
• Barrel: 3.0", conventional rifling; 1 - 10 right-hand twist
• Length O/A: 5.42"
• Height: 4.0"
• Slide Width: .90"
• Weight: Pistol 14 ounces, Magazine 1.9 ounces, total 15.9 ounces
• Grips: Textured polymer
• Sights: Drift adjustable, white bar-dot combat sights
• Finish: Black polymer frame, matte stainless steel slide
• Magazine: 1 - 6 rd flush floorplate

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: None

What others are saying?:

By Robert L  4/5 stars at Buds Gun Shop

Great gun. I have put about 100 rounds through it so far with no malfunctions. The sight and trigger wil take some getting use to. Great size to carry though.

By Joey K 4/5 stars at Gander Mountain

Love the compact and super lightweight design. Small and light enough to pocket carry all day and almost forget that its there.

Excellent review by Massad Ayoob on the CM9

Price point: 

MSRP = $460.00

Retail = $331.00 at Buds Gun Shop

I need it now! Availability: Check your local gun store

Our Rating:

Pros:

• Small size
• Lightweight
• Smooth trigger
• +p rated
• Price

Cons:

• Sharp Recoil
• Only comes with 1 magazine

Score: 8.5 Great

Chad’s Favorite Link:  Albany Rifle and Pistol Club

Negrini Dedicated 1911 Handgun Case Review

For those unfamiliar with Negrini you should definitely familiarize yourself with them. To me, they bridge the gap between wanting security/strong construction and lightweight/slim construction. If you want something more sturdy than your average thin plastic case with flimsy foam, but don’t want to sacrifice half your trunk to get your pistol to the range, this case by Negrini is a great choice. Although built and marketed as a dedicated 1911 case it can fit, and store securely, most medium to full size pistols. When you add built in locks it makes legally transporting in some states easier it is one of the most versatile single pistol cases I have seen.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Quality and secure construction without bulk

Target Market: High end gunners perhaps the people already familiar with their shotgun cases.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Slide length adjustability
• Storage for a few mags and more
• Proprietary double wall abs constructions
• Hand finished
• Double locks built in
• Customizable finishes

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: It would appear that anything is possible given the money is available

What others are saying?: Cannot find any third party reviews for this product.

Price point:

MSRP = $149

Retail = Have not located any places other than the manufacturer site.

I need it now! Availability In your hands today not very likely, however you can order direct from Negrini.

Our Rating:

Pros:

• Build Quality
• Built in Locks
• Finish Options
• Storage Versatility

Score: 8.5

Featured FFL:

For my gunsmithing and FFL services including custom Cerakoting, I choose Dynamic Combat Solutions. Gus is really great to work with and you can check him out at his website here.

Sam's Links:

Guns of Hollywood Podcast

NJ Gun Blog

Remora Clip-less Holster for Ruger LC9 Review

 

By: Larry

Upon first look of the Remora Clip-less holster, I thought there was absolutely no way this holster would work for me. However, after wearing this holster a number of times, I am amazed at the comfort. Often times I had to reach down to my hip to make sure my firearm was still intact. The non-slip material is everything as advertised. My firearm remained in place. Also, this holster is great as a deep pocket concealment holster. The price is very reasonable for just about everyone who wishes to conceal. Overall, I have very little complaint and I recommend this holster for anyone searching a low cost comfortable holster.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Conceals firearms with comfort

Target Market: Best servers conceal carrier with a low profile holster

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Light weight
• Low profile
• IWB or pocket carry
• Ambidextrous
• Closed design

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Available in black only.

What others are saying?: “This is a clip-less IWB from Remora. I wasn’t sure how well it would work, but the review I read on the LCP site was it very encouraging so I went for it. The holster is made from a slip resistant material and there is no need for a clip. I ordered the 2A with sweat guard for my LCP and a double magazine pouch also.” – eaglefrq, GlockTalk user

Price Point:

• MSRP = $24.95
• Retail = $29.95

I need it now! Availability: I need it now! Availability Ships in 5-7 days directly from Remora and 1-2 days from Amazon.

Our Rating:

Pros:

• Lightweight low profile design
• Comfortable
• Non-slip outer skin
• Low cost

Cons:

• Holster needs to be removed to re-holster after drawing
• No belt clip

Score: 8.0

Featured FFL

Larry prefers Cops Inc. in Sycamore, IL for his FFL needs.

Sig Sauer SB15 Pistol Stabilizing Brace

If you've been out of the tactical neighborhood for a bit, you maybe scratching your head at all these short barreled AR15s with arm braces that are scattered around magazine spreads and internet blogs. You may be wondering if shooting one handed is the new tactical hat trick. Not quite, but they have become very popular with AR-15 owners who are very proud of their "pistols."

Let me back up a bit. The original purpose of this arm brace is to aid those who are unable to shoulder a rifle effectively, because over either an injury or medical disability. In fact this product was designed by a US Veteran who was looking for a way for disabled vets to still be able to control and shoot rifles safely.  Mounting this on your AR-15 rifle (or AK47 as a different model) does not change its legal definition, and allows users to raise the firearm by anchoring the brace to your forearm. Needless to say, the weight of your rifle and your arm strength play a strong role in your success in using this product. However for those who are unable to fire a rifle for any number of physical obstacles, this stock is a game changer.

Now, I will get into why everyone else, myself included, are purchasing the Sig Sauer SB15 Pistol Stabilizing Brace.  In short, the ATF has ruled that installing this "brace" onto an AR Pistol does not alter the firearm's classification as a "pistol," and thus avoiding the classification of an SBR (short barreled rifle). So basically if you have an AR Pistol and you install this arm brace, it lets you legally own something that is similar to an SBR in handling/shouldering terms, without filing a Form 4, paying for a tax stamp, waiting between 8-12 months for your stamp and approved paperwork, AND not being able to transport the firearm in between states without notification of LEO.

Now I'm not a lawyer, and NFA laws are not something you want to misunderstand due to every gunshop employee you could talk to have a varying explanation.  Even as you are reading this, my understanding of whats correct and incorrect may no longer be the law of the land.  So I will not go deep into the Do's and Don'ts of AR15s and AR Pistols. Just consult the ATF website and make sure your SB15-equipped firearm is in NFA compliance if you are thinking about a barrel shorter than 16 inches.

I actually found the brace difficult to use. The elasto-polymer is uncomfortable if you just shove your arm through the brace. I also found it impossible to straighten my arm enough to use sights. I believe this is a downside to installing the SB15 on an elongated pistol buffer tube, like the KAK industries Super Sig tube. It positions the brace farther back on your forearm, and decreases the angle at which you can align the pistol straight ahead.  Also an optic like a red dot is required as you won't be able to use iron sights correctly with the appropriate eye relief.

However, this brace has an unintended benefit that probably makes up approx 90% of sales, being able to shoulder it like a stock, without it actually being a stock. With the official ruling and letter that comes with every SB15, the ATF has ruled that shouldering the arm brace does not magically make your pistol and rifle, and then back to a pistol when it is un-shouldered... that would be ridiculous and arbitrary! That is the reason why the brace is so popular.  I have tried firing an AR Pistol using only a naked buffer tube, and it was awkward and uncomfortable. The SB15 isn't as ergonomic as an actual stock, but the increase accuracy from a more traditional shooting technique and the legal benefit of this item make it worth the investment for those who desire a short barreled version of an AR-15 without the red tape. The cheek weld isn't bad, nothing to write home about but its better than nothing. Those who often wear armor (plate carriers, or other bulky tactical garb) will also appreciate the shorter LOP.

My only other gripe is the color of the FDE model. It's nowhere close to the other "Flat Dark Earth" furniture I have of my firearms. Not even close to coyote brown.  Why is it so difficult to nail down a consistent color for all manufacturers? OD Green wasn't the same across the board either, but there seems to be so many different shades and hues with the title of FDE that heavily contrast from each other. I would call this color "Flat Dark Baby Puke." Okay, graphic designer rant over!

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Designed to improve the single-handed shooting performance of buffer tube equipped pistols.

Target Market: Disabled hunters or recreational shooters wishing to shoot one-handed (or AR15 owners trying to keep their short barrels legal)

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product)

• Fits all pistols equipped with an AR-style buffer tube 1.0" - 1.2" in diameter.
• ATF compliant** ATF has reviewed this product and determined that attaching the SB15 to a firearm does not alter the classification of the firearm or subject the firearm to NFA control
• Veteran designed
• Made in USA
• Quick and easy to install
• Made from high-quality, elasto-polymer
• Uses the operator’s forearm to provide stable support, thereby minimizing accuracy-robbing spin and shift.
• A flexible cuff with two adjustable nylon straps allows the SB15 to be custom fit to any user.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black or Dark Earth

What others are saying?: "As far as the intended purpose of the brace: it's completely moronic. you can't really look down the sights, can't manipulate the weapon, and can't really use the controls. Forget about scoring good hits on target. I guess I understand the idea, but it just doesn't work. We all know what the real value of this brace is, and it functions far better in that regard.

Pros: You can skip the ATF wait, tax, and NFA paperwork and have what I would consider maybe 80% of the functionality of an SBR. It actually offers a pretty good cheek weld, if you don't mind how close in you have to tuck your carbine. Rubber is solid enough to function in the "traditional" sense. The stock is on the tube very tight, it took me and another meathead friend of mine to pull it off. I haven't tried to mortar the gun yet but I think the brace would probably do just fine. I consider myself to be stronger than most and it took an enormous amount of force to push the stock as far down as I did.

Cons: It can turn on the buffer tube because it isn't locked in at all. Sig should find some way to lock this in so it can't turn. It wouldn't be any different functionally if it went on a traditional buffer tube, but I'm sure the ATF in all their wisdom would never go for that. It is sold feeling piece of gear, but it's still rubber. You'd probably be **** out of luck if you were trying to squash somebodies head with it as opposed to a normal stock. A QD swivel also would have been nice, but I don't really expect that type of thing from Sig, especially on a product like this. Maybe they'll release a second gen of these at some point, but I kinda doubt it. Another con is that the stupid thing costs $140, more than almost every buttstock on the market, and most of your NFA tax stamp cost. You also have to pony up cash for the pistol buffer tube. The most obvious con is that the brace comes in black and not tan, which makes it infinitely less tactical." Tzook user, M4Carbine.net Review

Price Point:

MSRP: $139.00

I need it now! Availability:  Brownells

Our Rating:

Pros:

• Provides one armed shooting for disabled or special cases
• Includes ATF compliance letter
• Comes with extra velcro for additional support
• Invented by a veteran, partnered with SIG and $3 per stock proceeds go to HAVA foundation

Cons:

• Extremely uncomfortable on bare forearm for use as intended (arm brace)
• FDE color is way off from Magpul FDE and other "Coyote Brown" colored products
• Price is too high for what it is/how it affects sight alignment

Score: 6.0 Okay

Comfort Holsters Bentley Comfort Holster Review

I really love it when my initial impressions of a product are wrong. When I first received the Bentley Comfort Holster, I thought the unique materials were some sort of gimmick to justify the premium price tag. After carrying with the holster for a few days in a row, I'm happy to say "Boy, I was wrong!" There's an metaphoric expression used to compare the quality of a product to a highly reputable classic car maker... "the Rolls Royce of ___" is what people say. I can venture to say that this holster got its name, because it is "the Bentley of Holsters."

First let me preface by stating that I own several different inside the waistband holsters, and they each have gotten their fair use.  I do have a favorite out of the bunch, that has warped to my body after being worn repeatedly, and feels pretty good now that it's been 'Ryanitized' by my love handles. By the end of the evening, especially if it was a particularly active day, my body is relieved when its time to take that holster off. The air finally gets a chance to wick away sweat that accumulates with unbreathable skin-on-leather contact, even with a layer of fabric in between. Then there's the circular indent left behind. I do not expect the comforting concept of having a concealed defensive pistol to be in itself comfortable to bare, and that has been a mantra in the concealed training world for awhile now. With all the advancements in leather and kydex, we still have to endure some discomfort in order to be secure when using conventional IWB holsters. I'm pleased to have found an alternative that effectively throws that paradigm out the window.

Comfort Holsters claims this is the most comfortable holster in the world. A bold claim indeed, something that every holster manufacturer attempts to boast! The flagship model in Comfort Holsters' product line is called "The Bentley Comfort" holster. The Bentley uses a unique gel layer wrapped in suede material, which pads a full kydex chassis on the hip-facing side. The full chassis of kydex provides maximum retention of the firearm, while protecting the metal's finish from sweat. The gel pad reminds me of high end orthotic insoles in a prescription shoe, which is actually a really good way to compare the beneficial qualities of the material. Gel obviously molds to outside forces, your hip in this case. This eliminates abrasions, chaffing, and putting undue pressure on your body that some conventional IWB holsters can cause. Now wrapping that jelly material in soft suede not only feels pleasant to the touch but allows skin the breathe, which resolves something a leather backed holster design suffers from greatly. The result is an all day comfort that I personally had never really appreciated until it came time to remove the Bentley from my pants at the end of  day one... the relief of pressure and drastic "Aaaaahhh, much better" feeling was missing. Meaning the Bentley and my body were ready for another 9+ hour day of carrying, and that's a feeling I have never experienced with any other holster I've tried.

The Bentley holster has two leather tabs, more like wings, that provide the mounting for two belt clips. Unlike other holsters, the clips are not spread out. The Bentley is smaller more compact design with clips specifically placed asymmetrically for functional purposes. The rear clip is less than an inch from the kydex, with its clip positioned underneath the pistol grip. This, combined with a short, rigid double layer of leather which the manufacturer calls the "Cling Tab," causes a pulling / torque of the holster inward so that the grip follows the contour of your body, instead of remaining parallel to your frame like other holsters. The front/foward tab is a single layer of leather and is longer and mounted to follow the inward taper of the kydex, allowing it to flex and follow the contour of your waistband. This design has two primary intended results: reduce "printing" or broadcasting you are concealing a firearm through an imprint in clothing, and not needing a break-in period for the holster to warp and conform to your body.

From my testing, which included drawing my S&W M&Pc for dry fire practice for a couple weeks, I found that I am pleasantly pleased with the Comfort Holsters Bentley Comfort holster. The marketing hype on the Comfort Holsters website seems overreaching if you've never given it a try, but I can honestly assess that a lot of thought and engineering went into designing and building a better IWB holster. Some personal notes I found during my testing and evaluation are:

• If you prefer to carry exactly in the 3 o'clock position, the Bentley doesn't feel 'right'. It printed much more for me at this apex of my hip. I found that moving it back to the 4 - 4:30 position was the 'sweet spot' for me. I normally don't carry this far back because more traditional IWB holsters have a wider leather backing, and would cause pinching/discomfort in the kidney area when in the sitting position. The Bentley's smaller profile was almost unnoticeable when sitting at my office desk and driving around town.
• The rearward clip on the Cling Tab is directly located below the front strap of the grip, and if you adjust the seating depth so your gun sits deeper in your pants, the clearance for your fingers gets really tight. My digits began to wear on the knuckles of the index and middle fingers during drawing practice, and would often interfere with getting a good purchase on the grip frame. I wouldn't say that I have gorilla mits, but if you have fatter booger hooks than I do you will encounter this too. Best to leave the rear clip in its lowest position.
• The smell of the adhesive that binds the suede/gel panel to the kydex body is very pungent. If it weren't for the instructions addressing this, I would have been concerned for my safety in a tightly spaced environment. No worries, the off gassing dissipated after about 2 days.

Note: If you want a holster made to fit your rail mounted light or laser, just ask Rob. I wish I had a TLR-3 on a S&W M&Pc molded up, but failed to ask.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: This is the most comfortable holster known to man

Target Market: Concealed Carriers looking for the ultimate comfortable hoster for IWB carry

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product)

• Gel Cushion
• Suede Protection
• Tuckable
• Adjustment clip position (3 levels for forward clip, 2 for the rear)
• Rigid & short Cling tab gives extra support to rear of holster, angles grip inward
• Full Kydex body retention
• Small Footprint
• Lifetime Guarantee
• 6 week buy back warranty
• Made in the USA

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Kydex color Black or Desert Tan

What others are saying?: " During a very extensive search for an IWB holster to fit my glock 19 AND mounted Streamlight TLR-1, I ran across Rob Durham. When I first contact Rob he was in the process of moving his shop into the back of one of his local gun shops. This move has enabled him to make holsters for pretty much anything that the shop might carry. After hammering out all the details of what I was looking for Rob was able to put together a mold for my combination and for future use... Instead of leaving a waxed backing on the holster Rob has mated a second layer of leather for added comfort. It does not affect the flexibility of the holster. It doesn't affect the thickness either. This holster is fairly thin. I think I would have liked to see him run a row of stitching In the sculpted track running the entire perimeter of the holster, but we'll see how it holds up in the long run as is. The Holster is set up for adjustable ride height and/or cant... The holster features a sweat guard. As of right now there is not a "combat cut" like cross breed offers. But I have a feeling it will be an added feature in future holsters. It does not effect the draw, but would be a tad more comfortable on first "grab". After playing with the cants I finally settled in on the front clip all the way to the top and the rear clip in the middle position. At the 3 o'clock position it provides a slight cant, and makes the weapon print ALOT less.... is directly on the hip. You'll notice in this position that it "squares off the side." Also noted a bulge around the pocket. This position is NOT okay while seated. The grip and sweat guard tends to push into my side in this position while seated." Firing Line User Review

Price Point:

• MSRP: $125.00

I need it now! Availability: Readily available at comfortholsters.com

Our Rating: +  No break-in period +-Cling Tab: Shorter, double layered tab pulls pistol grip in to follow body contour + Suede and Gel combo really does provide all day comfort, no sweating or chaffing especially if in sitting positions (at desk or driving) + 6 Week Buy Back guarantee, shows major faith in product / customer satisfaction -  Smaller footprint puts rear clip right under pistol grip and can hinder initial purchase of handle if preferred position adjusted a certain way - My experience with experimenting with different pants / tops was still signs of printing through light clothing due to full kydex body and gel pad. --Strong glue smell upon first 1-2 days of wear - Price is on the higher end of the market, but it is high quality with uniquely comfort not available elsewhere.

Score: 8.0 Great

N82 Tactical Original Holster Review

Although my current geographical situation precludes me from carrying concealed, being a good American consumer, and a lover of all things gun related, I still get holsters every once in a while. Perhaps, it's just in case hell freezes over and NJ becomes a shall issue state, or maybe as a pinch of preparedness. Either way, just like my firearms collection, the handguns that I have holsters for are varied. Outside the waistband holster for the like of my Sig 226 and kydex IWB holster for my Glock 19 and now the N82 Tactical Original for my little J-frame or Glock 19.

In carry philosophy, there are a few ideals which need to be lived up to in varying degrees. One is the concept of that the best carry handgun is the one you have with you, it is the one that you will have on your person every day no days off. This can be lived up to, depending on where you are located, where you travel, work, etc. Another one is more in the application of the holster. The weapons security is crucial in a defensive scenario. You could need to run, drive, or carry someone, basically anything that would require two hands in the middle of, or after, the shooting. For the very same reason you use a holster in the first place and carry it concealed, you want to carry that defensive tool in as safe and secure a manner as possible. What I am getting at is re-holstering ability. If you pocket carry with no holster, then it’s a moot point, but if you're carrying using a holster, the ability to re-holster that defensive tool could be a deal breaker in your philosophy of use.

To me, these are the two biggest considerations, aside from concealability, to consider when choosing a holster. A concealed carry permit does you no good if you can’t carry safely in all manner of dress or it is not comfortable and you leave it at home. So, to me, the consistency of your carry slightly edges out re-holster ability.

Something else that impresses me is the price. The most powerful impact of the concealed carry movement is that it re-took the right to self defense from the elite and rich and brought it back to the people. The affordable price point on the original design makes a very comfortable, secure carry system available to more people which, in my book, is a good thing. Put a used J-frame in this holster and for less than 300 bucks total you will have a reliable proven gun with great defensive loads in a comfortable, secure holster and, all-in-all, will be a system that can pretty much disappear on most people.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Concealment, Comfort.

Target Market: Entry level carry

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Suede leather backing
• Neoprene midlayer
• Steel Clip
• Comfortable against the skin
• Neoprene stops body oils and sweat from contacting firearm
• Thin and minimalist design improves concealability

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: They make this same holster but with a different clip that makes the unit tuckable. They also make the professional line which is a polymer molded unit attached to the same comfortable platform. N82 products page

What others are saying?:

Big Tex Outdoors Youtube

Price point:

MSRP = $39 +9.50 shipping Retail = $39 +8 shipping at Tacdaddy.com

I need it now! Availability: You can buy these at the above mentioned sites and a quick Amazon search yielded two left handed models on there but no right handed models.

Our Rating

+-Comfort +-Concealability +-Construction

--No re-holster ability

Score 7.5

Featured FFL:

I enjoy working with Dynamic Combat Solutions in Wayne, NJ for all my FFL services and custom gunsmithing needs.

My Links

NJ Gun Blog

Guns Of Hollywood Podcast

Lone Wolf Dist Glock Magazine Disassembly Tool Review

Last week, Zack, from Lone Wolf Distributors, and formerly of Gun Guy Radio, posted on Lone Wolf’s Facebook seeking two people to review a new tool from them. I jumped on it and got the tool.

The Lone Wolf Dist Glock Magazine Disassembly Tool is an insanely simple tool designed to disassemble any of Glock’s magazines, including the new .380. The way it works, you simply slide the tool onto the baseplate. There are three slots that correspond with each size magazine(9mm/.40/.357/45GAP, 45/10mm, and .380). There are also two holes that correspond to the different mags. They are engraved with “Small”, for the .380, and “Large”, for everything else. Once you insert the mag, you push your Glock Tool(or any stiff punch) through the correct hole, and it depresses the mag plate button. Once that’s done, place the tool with the magazine oriented “bullets-forward” onto a hard surface, and push the mag body down. The tool holds the plate, while you slide the body off of it. When you pull the tool off, you can place your thumb over the baseplate, to catch the spring, and slide it the rest of the way off. It’s really that simple, or maybe even simpler than I just made it sound.

Lone Wolf posted this video to show the operation. There’s no sound, but it’s incredibly simple.

The review sample I received was aluminum “in the white”, but the final product will be black anodized. They also told me that you can have them custom engraved, if you’d like. They are also offering it as a package with the Glock Tool, for those people that got a Gen 4, lost their tool, or just want an extra.

Bottom line, if you own a single Glock magazine, you’ll want this tool!

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: This tool makes Glock magazines effortless to disassemble.

Target Market: ALL Glock owners

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Solid aluminum
• Fits all Glock magazines
• Simple disassembly of mags

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The tool is only available in black, at this time.

What others are saying?: “Does save some time and aggravation especially if you're taking apart a lot of mags all at once.” - Hank Strange

Price Point:

• MSRP = $14.95 (tool only)
• MSRP = $24.90 (with Glock tool)

I need it now! Availability: At this time, the Magazine Disassembly tool is only available directly from Lone Wolf Dist.

Our Rating:

+-Effortless magazine disassembly +-Compatible with all Glock mags +-Solid aluminum

Score: 9.5

LaserLyte Reaction Tyme Kit Review

The Laserlyte Reaction Tyme Kit is a laser training system that consists of a Universal Pistol Laser Trainer, a Trigger Tyme Compact Training Pistol, and a Reaction Tyme Target. Universal Pistol Laser Trainer:

The Universal Pistol Laser Trainer is a laser unit that fits slips into the bore of any pistol, from 9mm to .45 cal. This is accomplished by an arbor that screws into the rear of the unit, which expands as you tighten the screw. The front end of the unit is tapered, to keep the laser centered in each caliber. Once installed, the laser will activate whenever the striker or hammer of the pistol falls. It runs on three tiny 377 tablet batteries. The unit comes with three pre-installed and three more for replacement. There is a small plastic disk to keep the batteries separated from the circuit during storage and shipping. Make sure it’s removed before use, or it will not work. The way the laser is activated is that the unit is “listening” for the striker/hammer fall. This means that, if the circuit is complete, during storage, the batteries will run down very quickly. The laser is easily seen indoors, but I believe Laserlyte should offer a green option, for outdoor use. That would allow you to get out to longer ranges, while still having the benefit of not having to spend money on ammo. The manual says that the unit requires at least a two inch barrel, and I confirmed that it would not fit in the standard 1.875" J-frame barrel, without impeding the cylinder rotation. Laserlyte has incorporated a plug that goes on the end of the battery cap that you can flip over and stick it into the battery compartment. This disconnects the circuit, while also keeping everything together. This system could be done a little better, because it is just a rubber plug that can be knocked out, if it’s bouncing around in a bag, or something. I would prefer a threaded cap, to keep it all together.

In my traditionally rifled barrel, the arbor slipped right in when tightened properly. In my Glock, with polygonal rifling, the arbor would grab the rifling, and tighten itself, causing it to flare out even more and get stuck, before it is fully seated. This is easily overcome by making the arbor loose enough to where it just barely engages the rifling, but will tighten up as it is inserted. The laser unit will fit into the bore of a .380, but it was very tight in my Kahr CW 380, so it had to be loosened.

When I first got my kit, the laser unit was faulty. It would activate properly, but it was very dim. I contacted Laserlyte’s customer service, and got a response within an hour. The representative sent me out a new laser, along with a return sticker for the faulty one. She was even kind enough to throw in a 12 pack of replacement batteries. This was about as good of a customer service experience you could get.

Trigger Tyme Compact Training Pistol:

The Trigger Tyme Compact Training Pistol is a completely inert training pistol with a resetting trigger, which means that you don’t have to do any additional actions between each trigger pull. It has a bore that will accept the Universal Laser Trainer. The resetting trigger makes an audible “Click” that is picked up by the laser and activates it. I do not have a trigger pull gauge, so I was not able to actually test it, but it feels a few pounds heavier than my Glock stock trigger. The pistol has basic, black sights on it. They are very similar to the basic Glock sights, just without the white dot and box. The Laserlyte website states that the dimensions are very similar to the Springfield XD-S. The grip is very slim and short. The rear beavertail of the grip has relatively sharp corners, so it can be rather uncomfortable to train with. I decided to file and round the corners to make it a little easier on the web of my hand.

When I ordered this kit, I did not realize that it came with the compact version of their pistol, so once I tried the compact one out, I ordered their full-size, which is very similar in dimensions to the Glock 19/23. It has the same sight and trigger. It will fit in my Concealment Solutions hybrid holster, but not in the Serpa holster, because the “slide” is a little thicker. The beavertail is not sharp, like the compact version, which is very good, as it’s actually comfortable to use. I would also like some type of false magazine that stores the laser with the pistol, when not in use.

Reaction Tyme Target:

The Reaction Tyme Target is an electronic, reactive target that is designed to be used with Laserlyte’s laser trainers. The target area is about three inches square. It has two different modes: Reaction and Normal. The Reaction mode will light the entire target red. You then have a couple of seconds to react, and shoot it, before it turns off. If you successfully hit the target, in the allotted time, it will blink and beep twice, letting you know you hit. The target will continue to light up red at random intervals of three to five seconds, until you switch the target off. In the Normal mode, the target stays unlit, until you hit it with the laser. Each time you hit it, it will light and blink, letting you know you’ve hit the target.

The target runs off of a three AAA batteries. It seems to be very sturdy. It also has a hole in the back, so you can hang it on a screw or nail.

The Reaction Tyme Kit, as a whole, is a very good training aid. I would prefer the option to order it with the Compact or Full-Size pistol. It would also be nice to have a second target included, so you could practice transitioning between each target, but they are offered for sale separately.

If you are in need of a laser training system, this is a very good option. You may even be able to call or email Laserlyte to get them to sell it to you with the full-size pistol. You could buy each component separately, but you save about $60 by buying the kit. I would recommend this kit to any shooter wishing to get some inexpensive trigger time in.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: “One-stop system of entry level laser training” - Laserlyte

Target Market: Pistol shooters looking for a safe, laser training option

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Universal laser unit
• 9mm - .45 cal
• Pistol is “Training” blue
• Red laser
• Reactive target

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: All of the items are only available in one color: blue pistol and red laser unit.

What others are saying?: “By practicing with a device that replicates DAO triggers in-general you are gaining/polishing trigger skills that are universal to all pistols with DAO triggers.” – Eric, AmmoLand

Price Point:

• MSRP = $219.95
• Retail = $149.99

I need it now! Availability: You can get the Laserlyte Reaction Tyme Kit at Brownells and Amazon.

Our Rating:

+-Resetting trigger +-Universal Laser +-Reactive target +-Great customer service +-Full-size pistol fits well in my hand

--Compact pistol is a little uncomfortable --No storage compartment for the laser --Laser battery plug is prone coming out, when not in use --Laser should be offered in green, for outdoors use

Score: 8.0

Alien Gear IWB Holster Review

Written by Chad Wallace

I ordered the Alien Gear IWB holster because I liked the price.  The holster is everything I expected it to be and more.  The Alien Gear holster is an Inside The Waistband (IWB) holster of the hybrid variety.  It has a large leather back panel and a kydex shell.  This holster is tuckable and comes with metal belt hooks, an option is available for leather hoops also.  The holster arrives with a bag full of extra hardware, which can be used to vary the amount of tension on the gun.  It varies the tension by adjusting the screws that hold the shell on.  Between the shell and the leather backing are some rubber grommets to do this tension adjustment.  Ride height and cant can also be adjusted by moving the belt loops around.  I ordered the tan leather but black is also available as an option.  The holster is available for a vast selection of pistols and comes in a combat cut only, this means that the grip of the pistol is not backed by leather and therefore it rests against you skin or undershirt.   An option is also available to just purchase the outer shell, or trade your original shell, for a new one if you change firearms.  I experienced the shell swapping, because on my original order they sent my holster system for the wrong firearm.  I contacted them and they sent a new shell out the next day.  This was great, until the new shell came for the same wrong firearm.  It then took 3 weeks to finally get a hold of them to tell them about the new mix up. So 5 weeks after the initial holster arrived I received the correct shell and was able to try the holster out.  I have found the holster to be really comfortable and hides the firearm nicely.  

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Inexpensive quality IWB holster with the option for gun interchangeability.

Target Market: Those wanting a hybrid IWB holster for a decent price.

FNBs  (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Hybrid Design
• Price
• Changeable Shells and/or free shell trades
• Forever Warranty
• Adjustable angle
• Adjustable ride height
• Adjustable tension
• Tuckable
• Extra hardware

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:

• Comes in tan or black leather
• Available for a vast selection of pistols

What others are saying?:  From the AlienGear website:

• Great product, great value!
• Very nice product, my only negative thing its the time that I have to wait since order date until it's ready to ship
• Great Value

Elsewhere on the web:

• Just got my Alien Gear holster in today and it is a great holster
• A decent piece for the price, but it is not a replacement for a higher end hybrid
• Very nice! Super comfortable!

Link to other reviews:  TexasCHLforum,  YouTube

Price Point:

• MSRP = $29.88 + $6.95 shipping
• Retail = Sometimes available on Ebay

I need it now! Availability:  Aliengearholster.com but shipping times are about 4wks

Our Rating:

• Price
• Comfort
• Adjustments
• Extra hardware

• Customer Service

• Shipping times (about 4 weeks from order date)

Score: 7.0 Good 

Chad’s Favorite Link: Northwest Firearms

Laser Ammo - LaserPET Electronic Target

Laser Ammo - LaserPET Electronic Target This is a great way to practice at home without shooting up your house. It’s pretty simple to use and comes with instructions(who uses them?) Shooting it with the Laser Ammo Sure Strike provides instant feedback if you hit it. It has three modes, all which can be used to improve your overall shooting. Using the hit counter mode you can work on your trigger control and it keeps track of your hits. The shot timer mode is for working on your quick draw/first shot from the holster. Lastly is the magazine change mode in which, you guessed it, you practice fast mag changes. One thing I found this extremely useful for is teaching new shooters proper technique in a safe environment. I’m sure you’re as at home on the range as I am but a new shooter may be more comfortable learning to “shoot” in the safety and comfort of their own house, away from other shooters. Most of all you don’t have to worry about be shot by an overly excited person waving the gun around because “They hit the target!!!” even though I still yell if I get swept by the muzzle. The only issue I had with the timer is that I tossed it on my bed with the tripod attached and folded underneath and it broke it open like a clam shell. It was a nightmare and a half to get it back together with how the buttons fit in it. After I got it back together I threw some super glue on it and it’s been good ever since. Granted, if I had removed the tripod I probably never would have taken it apart. Hopefully you guys will learn from my mistake. Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points Claim to Fame: Improves drawing, target acquisition, and trigger squeeze.

Target Market: Home defenders, police, military

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• 1.8x1.8" laser sensor
• Bright numeric LED display
• Buzzer
• Changeable target cards to modify target area size and shape.
• Tripod and wall mounts
• AAA Battery operated
• Operational Mode: Hit counter - this setting will count the shooter's consecutive hits
• Operational Mode: Shot timer / Fast draw - this timer will show the accurate time from buzzer to hit
• Operational Mode: Magazine change - this mode will time the shooter as if they were changing a magazine and subsequently count how many times the shooter can hit the target within 5 seconds
• Built in timer
• Input for external sensor

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: It’s only available in one form, regular.

What others are saying?: “...improved my trigger control and accuracy 150%”- amazon.com “Works with LASERLYTE Trainer Pistol Universal.” - midwayusa.com

Price point:  MSRP = $119.95 laser-ammo.com Retail = $112.75 amazon.com

I need it now! Availability: Check your local gun shop or anywhere that has gun stuff. Or if you live by me, I’ll let you borrow it.

Our Rating: + 3 operational modes. + Multiple target inserts. + Standard tripod mount and wall mount. + Collapsible tripod. - Broke when I tossed it on my bed. - Hard to put back together if opened.

Score: 8.5

Springfield Armory XD 40

By Lance Chaar

As an instructor I always find myself trying many different guns and many different grips on pistols.  However as soon as I got a stock XD in my hand, I felt like this is the proper fit for me. The 4” barrel makes it easy to handle and manipulate the gun in any situation that combined with the force and power of a .40 Caliber round,  makes it a great gun for me.  As of today I have about 100+ rounds through the gun and it still functions like its new.  I have shot every thing through this gun from hallow points to range ammo and it just works no matter what the situation is.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Ergonomic comfort, ease of operation, features and performance.

Target Market: From target range goers to tactical users.   

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

•  The double safety on the gun
•  Ease of disassembly for maintenance
•  Shorter shot to shot recovery time
•  High capacity magazines 12+1
•  Loaded chamber indicator

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The Springfield Armory XD 40 is available in Black, bi-tone, FDE, and OD Green.

What others are saying?:  

• “Shooting the XD 40 was really a ton of fun. I really liked the way it pointed, so I had no trouble greeting targets. This gun is very accurate for a duty pistol and the excellent trigger really helps.”  
• “The Ultra Safety Assurance Trigger System guards against accidental discharge from dropping or bumping by locking the XD's trigger in place until direct, rearward pressure is applied. The Service model combines the standard XD grip frame with a shorter 4" barrel for comfortable carrying.” Gander Mountain 
• “The gun will shoot as well as you can hold it. I shot about 100 rounds of various named rounds, to include mixing rounds into the magazine. She never thought about having a problem. Ate everything and kept asking for more.” Gun and Game

Price Point:

• MSRP = $549
• Retail = $519 - $569

I need it now! Availability:  Not always so readily available. But you can find them at gun stores like Cabela's.  

Our Rating:

+_Safety +_Accuracy

-_Weight -_Availability

Score: 8.0 Great

Springfield Armory XD Subcompact 9mm Pistol Review

By Matthew McMullen

This is one of the best shooting handguns that I have ever owned or shot. Right out of the box, it shot perfectly. It is easy to clean and fires every time flawlessly. It is also perfect for concealed carry. Comes with short magazine 13+1, long Magazine 16+1, holster, speedloader, and magazine holster.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Fires every time!!!

Target Market: Everyone wanting to conceal carry.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Shortest concealed-carry polymer pistol
• The only pistol with a light rail in its class
• Comes with two magazines
• 3" steel Melonite barrel
• Shown with grip-extension magazine

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The Springfield Armory XD Subcompact 9mm Pistol is available in black and Bi-Tone(black with stainless slide).

What others are saying?: "With simple lubrication and occasional cleaning, the XD will faultlessly fire tens of thousands of rounds, even in the harshest conditions." - Robert Farago, The Truth About Guns

Price Point:

• MSRP = $549
• Retail = $426 - $460

I need it now! Availability: You can get this pistol from a few retailers, including Bud's Gun Shop.

Our Rating:

+_Very Consistent +_Accurate

Score: 9.0 Amazing

Hogue Handall for Ruger LCP Review

 

The Hogue Handall grip is a slip on style grip that enhances grip on the Ruger LCP.  Installation is pretty straight forward and it comes with some instructions, so I will not get into installation.  I found this grip to be very ergonomic.  It fills my hand far better than the tiny stock grip.  Recoil also seems to be tamed a bit.  The LCP is still pretty snappy, but seems to come back on target quicker.  The grip does seem to make the little pistol a bit wider by about  3/8".  This could be a problem for someone that like the slimness of the LCP.  I carry mine in a pocket holster.  When in my front pocket the width does not seem to matter.  When I put it in a smaller rear pocket, it "feels" wider, but no one seems to notice any difference.  Since the grip is tacky like most Hogue products, it could stick in the pocket making for a more difficult draw.  Overall I am glad that I have this on my little LCP.

 Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  Non-slip grip that enhances the feel of the LCP.

Target Market:  Those who find the grip on the Ruger LCP too small or too slick.

FNBs  (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Hugs the contours of your gun
• Non-slip surface
• Reduced Recoil

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:

• Available in Black or Pink
• Available for Ruger LCP with the Crimson Trace laser

What others are saying?: 

• "All I can say that if you own an LCP, this should be the first upgrade on your list,"  "Great grip! Easy to install, fits snug and looks good,"  "This is a nice grip for the gun if you dont plan on carrying in your pocket." on  with 4.8/5 stars on Amazon
• "Works well, very well,"  "Significantly improves handling and reduces felt recoil,"  "So much easier to shoot." on Midway with 4.8/5 stars

Price Point:

• MSRP = $9.95-10.95
• Retail = $6.99

I need it now! Availability:  The Hogue Handall for Ruger LCP is readily available at Amazon and Midway

Our Rating:

+  Ergonomics +  Non-slip texture +  Reduces Recoil

-  Makes the grip much wider -  Sticks more inside pocket

Score:  6.5 OKAY

Chad’s Favorite Link:

We Like Shooting

Glock 30S Review

 

By Troy Clopton

The Glock 30S is one of the latest offering in Glock’s Compact 45 ACP Pistols. Introduced in Shot 2013 it was wildly popular within the Police and Conceal Carry Glock community.  The genesis for the Glock 30S is people found by taking the slide off the G36 and mating to the G30 SF (Short Frame) lower they could reduce the slide width and the weight yet still having the (10) + (1) capacity of the G30 SF lower. In addition the G30S will accept the G21 (13) round magazines and those could be carried for back-up.

It was known on several popular Glock blog sites that this could be done with a little bit of gun-smithing but when special unit of the LAPD requested a thinner Glock .45 for their detectives, without losing capacity. After Glock tweaked the recoil spring system and cleaned up the design they decided to release this little monster on the public.

My experience is as follows.  Right up to the arrival of the Glock 30S, I have been carrying the G30 Gen 2.5 as my daily carry gun. I carried it with (2) G21 Magazines most of the time in a hybrid IWB holster.  So it was a very comfortable transition to the G30S. I noticed the weight reduction immediately when you carry a gun daily it is very noticeable. At the range it was a shooter right out of the box, and felt comfortable enough with it that it replaced the G30 after 2 weeks of practice. The first thing I did as I do with all polymer lower guns was to order a set of rubberized Talon Grips to keep a good secure grip.

The great part about switching from the G30 to 30S is since the lower frame is the same all of the holsters fit and so did my spare magazines. I also moved the reliable and compact TLR4 over from my G30. I moved over my extended Slide release and slide lock release and then promptly sold my beloved G30. The newer Glock models already come with the loaded chamber indicator; I had bought a new extractor/indicator for the previous G30.

In the end, this gun has performed flawlessly for me over the last 3 months and I have well over 1,200 rounds through it. It is accurate, controllable, reliable and light for a 45 ACP. If you like the power of a 45ACP and the ability to carry 11 rounds of reliability this may be the guns for you.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: “Built on the G30 SF frame, the G30S combines the full capacity .45 AUTO round count with a slimmer slide. This pistol offers a lighter, more easily concealable option for Law Enforcement and legal concealed-carry enthusiasts. Built in conjunction with elite law enforcement, the newest edition to the GLOCK product line brings a venerable history of consistency, dependability and safe performance in the powerful .45 Auto round.”

Target Market: Law Enforcement, military, concealed carry holders and gun nuts alike.

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

• Capacity: 10 + 1, Glock 21 magazine 13 + 1
• Weight (empty): 20.28 oz, weight (loaded) 30.36 oz
• Width: 1.28 inches
• Height: 4.8 inches
• Overall length: 6.97 inches
• Barrel Length: 3.78 inches
• Finish: Polymer with Tenifer coated slide
• Trigger: Safe-action with  5.5 pound pull

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Only offered from Glock in black, but there numerous companies on-line that offer a vast variety of options to dress up your Glock.

What others are saying:  “For me, the gun was accurate and fast out of the box. If I were to use the 30S for conceal carry, I would personally opt to change out the sights for night sights (such as Trijicon 3 dot tritium) or other low light sighting system, swap in a lighter recoil spring, and put in a crisper trigger (such as The Glock Store’s Fulcrum trigger) to bring the trigger pull down from its stock 5.5lbs down to around 4lbs, a common conceal carry weight.  All in all, I really like the Glock 30S and it’ll be interesting to see if it’s successful.”

By Chris Cheng Top Shot Season 4 champion

Price Point:

• MSRP = $598
• Retail = $545.99 (Bud's Gun Shop)

Our Rating:

+ Slim and lightweight for a double stack + Reliable and durable + Reasonable pricing for pistol and accessories + Able to use full size Glock 21 magazines for spares

Score: 9.0 Amazing

Ruger Super Redhawk Review

BOOM! It was time for me to step up to a classic big bore revolver cartridge, and a Ruger Super Redhawk in 44 Magnum has been on my most wanted list for a couple years. Available with multiple barrel lengths, the Super Redhawk carries all the advantages of the standard Redhawk line but with a few key improved features. The frame is the most obvious change, being extended to improve durability and stoutness, as well as reliefs machined in the frame for scope rings (included with all but Alaskan short-barreled models)

The Super Redhawk comes in two duel chamberings. The 44 magnum models can be loaded with 44 special cartridges, and the 454 Casull model can accept 45 Colt cartridges. This makes plinking a bit less expensive and gives a chance for novice or recoil sensitive shooters to experience the revolver without breaking the bank or a wrist.

The Super Redhawk also now boasts a hammer-forged barrel which provides enhanced accuracy and rigidity. To help manage the recoil associated with 454 Casull and even hot 44 Magnum loads, a Hogue Tamer Monogrip with an internal recoil cushion comes standard. If you find yourself not accustomed to the monogrip you have access to a vast selection of aftermarket wooden grips compatible with the Super Redhawk's peg-style grip frame. All the other features that made the Redhawk so popular are still present including Ruger's patented transfer bar mechanism (prevents accidental discharge), a corrosion-resistant stainless steel finish, and the classic plastic Ruger hard plastic case.

I picked my KSRH-7 model, 7 inch 44 magnum SRH up at a local gunshop for under $790 sticker price.  It's been a blast to shoot especially as a reloader. Even as a handloading novice, the straight-walled 44 magnum case and it's little brother the 44 special lend themselves well to beginners. The price for factory loads in both magnum and special is expensive, and the cost savings from rolling your own will be tremendous. I've tested some warm magnum loads using 300 grain Uni-Cor projectiles from Speer and Hodgdon H110 powder with very good results, as well as some lighter 44 Special loads using Hornady 200 grain XTP projectiles and Unique powder. Its a very fun caliber to work up loads with different charge/bullet combinations, from hard cast Grizzly-stoppers, to Big Game Hunting loads, and even light/cheaper plinking rounds.

My biggest negative to the SRH is the front sight. Some SRH's come with a ramped base with a dovetail for the blade, however mine and the other's I've seen on shelves as of late have a one piece base/ramp/orange plastic blade that is not conducive to accuracy at all. How it mounts to the barrel also poses the issue of no aftermarket alternatives that I could find.  It used three screws and the barrel / sight base are mated by a machined relief. I am having a gunsmith fabricate a new front sight that matches the footprint but with a dovetail interface that will allow using a different front sight, specifically a brass bead. I plan to then replace the square-notch rear sight with a V-notch, giving me a better sight picture for 100 yard groups and hopefully an unsuspecting buck one of these days.

Of course the included scope rings would be ideal for most shooters hoping to sling lead at that range, but I would like to be able to holster the Super Redhawk and be able to shoot in the low-light hours of the day, two factors that a handgun scope somewhat limits for my intent.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  Ruger® Super Redhawk® revolvers have all of the advantages of the Ruger Redhawk® plus additional features that give it potent strength and power!

Target Market:  Hunters & Outdoorsman, Revolver enthusiasts and people who plink with extreme prejudice!

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• FRAME INTEGRAL SCOPE SYSTEM with scope mounts machined directly into the frame and FREE Ruger scope rings for accurate and reliable sighting.
•  STRONG EXTENDED FRAME with extra metal in top strap, sidewalls and barrel mounting areas to handle powerful big game loads.
• TRIPLE-LOCKING CYLINDER is locked into the frame at the front, rear, and bottom for more positive alignment and dependable operation shot after shot.
• RECOIL CUSHIONING HOGUE® TAMER™ MONOGRIP® with an internal recoil cushion positioned under the web of the hand helps reduce the impact of powerful loads, while peg-style grip frame easily accommodates custom grips.
• DUAL CHAMBERING for 44 Magnum models, which also accept all factory 44 Special cartridges and 454 Casull models, which also accept all factory 45 Colt cartridges.
• PATENTED RUGER TRANSFER BAR MECHANISM provides an unparalleled measure of security against accidental discharge.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: All Stainless, but barrel lengths vary from 9.5", 7.5", 5" (TALO edition) and 2.5" (Alaskan Model)

What others are saying?: “Ruger's Super Redhawk is an impressively strong framed revolver; that the same frame and action has been used for the .480 Ruger and the .454 Casull is testimony to that. To be sure, this is no wimpy wheel gun. The build quality clearly exceeds that of many of the other .44 Mags that I've owned, including a few M44 Taurus examples. Having hunted hogs and similar successfully with .357's, there is little question that whatever a .357 can do, a .44 Mag. just makes them "deader better."

The Ruger Super Redhawk is the most accurate hunting pistol I've ever owned, with its heft and weight helping to make it controllable to shoot. Hotter rounds such as the .454 Casull have been too much in the hand-slapper department for me to enjoy shooting them, much less do so accurately. Some folks do, of course, but for me the .44 Rem. Mag. is the upper limit of what I enjoy shooting out of a handgun.

I've never had a Ruger revolver that was less than well made, including their GP100 .357, and their single action Blackhawk models. As far as I'm concerned, the Ruger Super Redhawk is the class of the field, and one of the best hunting revolvers you can buy. It's a testimony to the quality of Ruger's investment casting prowess.

You might want a trigger job, though in my case just a spring kit did the trick. In .44 Rem. Mag. configuration it is a reliable combination of power, accuracy, and manageability that is hard to beat. It remains my favorite hunting handgun. I can't recommend the Ruger Super Redhawk highly enough."  - Randy Wakeman via Chuckhawks.com

Price Point:

• MSRP = $1049.00
• Retail = $779.00

I need it now! Availability: BudsgunShop, Slickguns, or check local dealers

Our Rating: + Included scope rings are quality, lockup is nice and tight and haven't come loose under recoil (yet) + Rubber Grip helps tame recoil and is all-weather + Added weight from beefed up frame adds to recoil control + Different barrel lengths for intended use (accuracy, hunting, or self defense)

- Front sight post is my biggest beef. Its wide, ugly and will hinder accuracy at 100 yards compared to a bead or fiber optic rod - No aftermarket support for front sight (my SRH has one-piece 3 screw orange blade sight) - Trigger isn't as good as equivalent S&W revolvers but not terrible either

Score: 8.5 Great

Springfield Armory Mil-Spec .45 ACP Pistol Review

By Mark Smith

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Looks great (Cocobollo grips), feels good in your hand and shoots well.

Target Market: Collector that likes to shoot.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Comes with 2 mags, mag holster and holster.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The Springfield Armory Mil-Spec .45 ACP Pistol is available in black parkerized and stainless steel.

What others are saying?: “Forged frame, slide and barrel, combat 3-dot sights, high-hand™ grip, beveled magazine well, polished feed ramp & throated barrel, arched mainspring housing, stainless steel barrel, lowered and flared ejection port, angled slide serrations, black and cocobolo hardwood grips, loaded chamber indicator and titanium firing pin.” - AmmoLand.com

Price Point:

• MSRP = $785.00
• Retail = $663.32

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

Our Rating: + Great performance + Classic design + Functions well

Score: 9.5 Amazing

SCCY CPX-2 Pistol Review

By Joseph Hulsey

After hearing and seeing some reviews, my interest was piqued. I had a client who also had been reviewing the SCCY and came to me to see if I could get one. I could, and actually got two, a CPX2 and CPX1. The customer preferred the CPX1 with the safety, so I kept the non-safety version. The takedown to clean and lube was pretty simple, typical of most modern polymer guns. It did require a bit of prying (not to be done with a fingernail) on the retaining pin to get it out. It wasn't stuck, just recessed in the frame. After a cleaning of the factory lube, I lubed with Froglube and off to shoot.

I started the shooting with some dry firing to familiarize myself with the double action trigger. This trigger is factory set around 9 lbs, as advertised. The trigger felt about in that ballpark, but was smooth throughout the pull. You could easily pull to a break point with little practice and follow through on the trigger well. This gun does have a covered but visible hammer, which won't snag on apparel if carried in a pocket.

The shooting time was enjoyable. I was surprised at how little the recoil was for a small 9mm. I think a little less than a comparable Glock 26. I feed the little nine: ball, hollow-point and lead in semi wadcutter and round nose. Ammo was sized from 115 gr to 147 gr. It ate all I could give it. I will admit a few times maybe 3 out of 150 it didn't go completely into battery. This has seemed to be a common thing until broke in, even mentioned by the customer.

Accuracy? I shot mostly at a distance of 30 feet at B-27 targets and I was again surprised how easy it was to shoot tight groups with such an inexpensive gun. Granted I am no professional but this gun would have no problem putting defensive shots where needed. Even moving and firing was not as bad as expected with a DAO gun.

The feel of the gun is very similar to the aforementioned G26. It is actually slightly smaller and lighter by an ounce or two. It did take me a few minutes to warm up to the grip, but after shooting several hundred rounds I had no problems with it.

All-in-all, I like this gun. As a reasonable entry level gun priced under $300 this thing is something I would not have a problem defending my life with. With 10 rounds of good 9mm hollow points you could walk with confidence and concealed ability.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Fills a market for an inexpensive compact 9mm semi auto.

Target Market: Best serving concealed carry. With easy concealablility in climates where compact is a benefit.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• 2- 10 round magazines incl.
• Nice visible sights

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The SCCY CPX-2 Pistol is available in black, black/stainless, pink/black, and pink/stainless. You can get each of these colors with an optional manual safety, as well.

What others are saying?: “Thankfully I had brought a couple brand new shooters with me the day I was testing it, and out of all the handguns we fired, this was the one they seemed most interested in buying. They had been thinking about getting a handgun for home defense, and even with the FNS-9 and Glock 17 sitting on the table, they kept asking about the SCCY CPX-2 and wanting to fire it.

There is something to be said about a good looking, cheap gun.” – Nick Leghorn, The Truth About Guns

Hickock45 Review

Price Point:

• MSRP = $299
• Retail = $261.62

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

Our Rating:

+ Consistent trigger ever time + Easy sighting with slightly raised sights

- Magazine reloads can give you a bite, pinched between the mag and mag well on fast reloads

Score: 7.5 Good

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

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