About a decade ago, give or take, the baseline for what made a great polymer-framed, striker-fired handgun was changed overnight when Walther introduced us to the PPQ. Its ergonomics were all the rage, as was its performance and accuracy – but it was that trigger that knocked the industry on its butt. The light, crisp trigger of the PPQ with its very short and tactile reset had every IDPA shooter in the country taking those make-up shots without adding time to their scores. It is hard to overstate the revolution that was started by that pistol.
Handguns
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Revisiting the CZ P-09
Published: July 4, 2021 { 16 comments }Hammer-fired handguns look beautiful, they’re incredibly easy to shoot but something in me seems to believe they’re becoming dated platforms. I know many people are going to stop reading right now but hear me out.
Ruger LCR – Die-Hard Smith Fan Takes it for a “Spin”
Published: June 27, 2021 { 30 comments }Those who have followed my writing over the years will, no doubt, remember that I am a self-avowed Smith J-frame addict. That being said, more than one friend has encouraged me to take a serious look at Ruger’s little LCR. This assignment was just the nudge I needed.
The Everyman’s Revolver: The Taurus 856 Defender Is a Classic Design at a Great Price (Full Review)
Published: June 20, 2021 { 24 comments }The 856 Defender isn’t a perfect revolver, but like many Taurus products, it lives in a nice middle ground between bargain bin and custom Gucci. It’s light (but not too light), well-built, reliable, reasonably priced, and accurate enough to get the job done. It’s the everyman’s revolver, I wouldn’t hesitate for a second to carry it.
Light and Handy 1911: Springfield Armory’s New Ronin Operator 4.25”
Published: June 20, 2021 { 4 comments }I find the standard Government 1911 too heavy for concealed carry; I prefer to carry a 1911 that is lighter, while just as accurate and reliable as it’s bigger cousins. I found one in the Springfield Armory’s new Ronin Operator 4.25”.
Smith & Wesson Rolling Out Limited Edition M&P Spec Series
Published: June 17, 2021 { 1 comment }The Spec Series Kits include an optics-ready two-tone M&P pistol bundled with a Crimson Trace optic, M&P fixed blade knife and a challenge coin.
Armscor Gearing to Launch STK100 Alloy-Framed Striker-Fired 9mm
Published: June 14, 2021 { 0 comments }The Armscor and Rock Island Armory STK100 is a full-size, striker-fired 9mm with a 1911-inspired anodized alloy grip.
Ruger LCR – Goodness in 22
Published: June 12, 2021 { 22 comments }I recently evaluated the Ruger LCR in .38 Special. As a follow-up, I wanted to evaluate the LCR in .22 LR. eing a fan of the Smith & Wesson J-frame, I am fortunate to own a Model 43C which is also chambered in .22 LR. This review also gave me an opportunity to compare the LCR with the Smith.
New EDC. The Springfield XD-M Elite Compact OSP
Published: June 6, 2021 { 9 comments }The new Springfield XD-M Elite Compact OSP is a mouthful to say but a joy to shoot. I’ve got to be honest, before Springfield sent me this pistol to review, I had little to no experience with their handgun offerings aside from their 1911’s. After unboxing this handgun I was incredibly excited to see how it compares to the pistols I’m more accustomed to.
MAX Capacity + MAX Function = Ruger MAX-9
Published: May 30, 2021 { 16 comments }If you’re not first with a new innovation, then you’d better bring something extra to the table. And that is exactly what Ruger has done with the MAX-9. I am duly impressed by it – the MAX-9 is a very legit contender.