Semi-Autos

The mysterious ASP was the result of some 212 modifications on the stock Model 39. The most dramatic modification was the reduction in the size of both the slide and frame.

I have long been a fan of the Springfield Armory when it comes to 1911s. Much like the Dos Equis beer guy: I don’t always shoot single stacks, but when I do, the odds are high that it’s a Springfield. This week, GunsAmerica got a first look at the new Range Officer (RO) Elite models.

The evolution and revolution of the 1911 are both alive and doing well. Modern machining and the lessons learned from 30 years of competition means even these classics can get the best triggers, sights, finishes and magazine wells available. These may be the Classic Division guns but they are leaps and bounds better than most of the 1911s of old.

Sig Sauer seems poised to take over the world these days. It seems like they have a winner in every market segment except kitchen sinks, and they are probably working on kitchen sinks right now. A huge win for Sig has been the MPX family of pistol caliber carbines, and this week we got our hands on one to test.

Anyone familiar with NightHawk Custom knows that they produce superlative guns. The workmanship, function, and accuracy are second to none. I just wish you could hold this 1911 in your hands. You can feel the difference between this pistol and a mass-produced pistol immediately.

One company that emerged during this past volatile decade that I think will thrive and grow is FMK Firearms. Until the FMK 9C1 G2 arrived for testing and review, I had never handled or seen one of their products. What happened next was possibly the best surprise I’ll have all year!

Caracal is back, and they are better than ever. After a very limited release and subsequent full recall a few years ago, new Enhanced F pistols are finally available again.

“If only SIG Sauer would offer the P226 in more configurations,” said no one. Ever. Okay, I couldn’t help opening with a bit of snark, but if you pay attention to the firearms market you know that there are about as many SKUs for the P226 as there have been for G.I. Joe. Enter the P226 ASE. And it’s a beauty.

I have been writing for over 35 years and until this project I’ve never owned or shot an Ed Brown 1911. When I contacted Ed Brown Products, I requested the Ed Brown Special Forces model, which has been the anchor of their pistols lineup for many years. If their base duty/personal-defense handgun was up to par, the other models would be also. I was not disappointed.