Handguns

Show First

The Used Gun Market--Smith & Wesson Model 30

The Used Gun Market–Smith & Wesson Model 30

{ 32 comments }

This old Smith Model 30 is made on the J frame and is marked 30-1 on the crane. It dates from about 1970 and shows a bit of wear here and there from its 45 year or so life. This Smith belongs to Jon Hodoway and was his grandmothers revolver. He said she kept it in the towel drawer in her kitchen for defense against 2, 4 and no legged varmints.

Shooting from the bench, making use of the bipod.

A Long Range Revolver? Smith & Wesson 647 Varminter

{ 33 comments }

This isn’t your average revolver. The Smith & Wesson 647 Varminter is a complete long-range package. What kind of accuracy can you expect from a rimfire handgun? You just might be surprised. Read our review of this unique wheel-gun.

SIG SAUER P320 Grows up – to .45 ACP (Review)

SIG SAUER P320 Grows up – to .45 ACP (Review)

{ 52 comments }

SIG’s P320 platform is a frontrunner in the upcoming modular handgun trials. The new .45 ACP version is a full-sized pistol that performs like the rest of the P320 line, which is winning people over. But this P320 has a couple of surprises. How will the .45 ACP version stand up to the modularity standards that define the upcoming tests? Read our review.

Coating a Stainless Revolver? WMD's 686

Coating a Stainless Revolver? WMD’s 686

{ 22 comments }

So why would we or you want to do something like this? Well, contrary to what a lot of people think stainless does not mean rustless. Stainless steel will, can, and does rust. Now it is not as prone to corrosion as regular steel, but it will happen. Coating a stainless gun might be the equivalent of putting on two condoms, but sometimes its better to be have a little extra protection. See what WMD can do.

Dan Wesson's Heritage 1911--Review

Dan Wesson’s Heritage 1911–Review

{ 17 comments }

So what do you get out of a mid priced 1911 that you don’t from a budget pistol? Mostly fit and finish. I also expect some upgraded features, like checkering on the mainspring housing, nice grips and good sights. That is what this Dan Wesson Heritage delivers. And it looks good, too. Read our review

Your gun, plus a new slide, barrel and magazine, makes a great .22LR pistol.

Review: Beretta 92 .22LR Practice Kit Conversion

{ 15 comments }

Let’s assume you have some rimfire rounds on hand–and I know some of you do–what should you do with them? For those of you with an M9, I’d suggest this conversion kit. If you have the ammo, it makes training with the Beretta practical and economical.

This Galco Miami Classic II makes a great shoulder carry rig.

Gun Review: Springfield Armory 1911 TRP

{ 22 comments }

Since the centennial of the 1911, the market has been flooded with new twists on the classic Browning design. But not all 1911s are created equal. But there are some that depart from the old traditions and still manage to feel completely purposeful in their design. The Springfield Armory TRP is one of those guns, and it can hold its own against a lot of custom single actions. Looking for a 1911 to carry everyday? Here it is.

Silence anyone? The new Springfield Armory XD(M) Threaded 45 (top) and 9mm (bottom)

First Look: Springfield Armory XD(M) 9mm and 45 Threaded Barrel Models

{ 22 comments }

Shhh! At the request of Springfield Armory, we’re going to keep quiet for a little while. I picked up a package yesterday from the folks in Geneseo, and in the box were too shiny new pistols. I mean really new, like not even on the shelves yet. And they’ve made some really big changes.

The Single Stack 9mm Perfected--Nighthawk T4

The Single Stack 9mm Perfected–Nighthawk T4

{ 27 comments }

Those discerning single action aficionados amongst us already know the Nighthawk name. Their 1911s aren’t dressed up in elaborate finishes. They don’t have exotic grips. These are hard working guns meant to be carried, and shot. I recently had the chance to put the 9mm T4 through its paces, and the compact carry gun has changed the way I think about single actions. I’m a skeptic, but I’d carry this gun–no question about it.

A True Masterpiece? The Masterpiece Arms 30DMG

A True Masterpiece? The Masterpiece Arms 30DMG

{ 32 comments }

I grew up with the MAC 10, but the gun was rarely portrayed in a favorable light. It was the emblem of the war-on-drugs. Now, though, the old open bolt automatic seems like an antique. Or it did until Masterpiece Arms updated their defender line. This take on the old classic is completely updated, and my new favorite large-framed 9mm.