Jacob Epstein

AK platform shotguns have a solid reputation. They are what you make of them. But how hard are they to find now that sanctions have shut down the import of some of the guns? Here’s five options that are still available, despite the efforts of the Obama administration.

Before the fear-buying starts under a Bill-ary regime, it may be time to purchase these firearms while (a) they’re still around and (b) they’re reasonably priced.

As prices are falling, and the heat of the proposed sanctions seems to be fading, it is time to look at buying an AK. Despite the rumors to the contrary, a moron can take the faithful Kalashnikov design and make it into a real lemon. If you take the time to inspect for the following problems, you can almost guarantee yourself a rifle that will outperform and outlive you.

I’ve had lots of conversations with gun-geeks about barrels and lowers. We can talk triggers until we’re blue in the face. But I’ve yet to anyone truly debate the AR upper. Uppers are just not that sexy. But this is a crucial aluminum shell that holds some of the AR’s most active components. It can’t be overlooked!

Jacob Epstein, our Tactical Editor, volunteered for a classic pocket dump. He didn’t have much choice–concealed carry is in his job description. So what’s in his pockets? More than guns. Check out what he’s carrying.

When deciding how you want to build an AR-15, the lower often takes center-stage. The lower receiver ties the whole rifle together. And it is a popular stating point for most builds, which means there are numerous options for material construction, style, and how much effort is required to finish them.

In our continuing coverage of the ins-and-outs of AR-15 construction, we’re going to break it down. The rifle, that is–and the tool box. Ever seen a list of all of the parts of an AR-15? It is long. So put together a checklist, and make sure you have all the tools. If you are going to build an AR-15, you will need to be at least somewhat organized.

Black Aces Tactical’s take on the pump scattergun is pushing the limits. The DT has an 8.5″ barrel, and a folding stock. There are very few functional guns in this class that are more ergonomic and effective. Yet this 12 gauge beast is not a shotgun, and it is not an AOW, and it is not a short barreled shotgun. It is a firearm, and perfectly legal–and functionally perfect. Read our review.

G-Code and Travis Haley have partnered to design a new holster that adds a slight twist to the typical in-waist-band Kydex rig. This Kydex/suede combo can be worn in multiple positions, and has the option of a modular mag carrier that adds very little to the overall bulk.