EDC

We unbox the Springfield Armory XD-E. The hammer-fired SA/DA polymer pistol purpose-built for concealed carry and home defense.

By Doug Larson Some readers will remember seeing first-run episodes of such westerns on television as The Rifleman and Gunsmoke. A common firearm seen in most of them is the lever action gun. And back in the days depicted in these television shows and in western movies, the lever action was used for hunting, shooting [...]

Over time, we have seen numerous materials used for 1911 grip panels, each with pros and cons and each able to tell a story or improve a shooter’s ability to use the gun. Here are my top five materials used in 1911 grips.

Glock has been updating the line up to Generation 5, as seen here on the 17/19 and here on the 19X. We aren’t going to rehash all the changes for the Gen 5 here, but a highlight reel is helpful if you haven’t been paying attention. The accuracy is improved by a factor of half, the new triggers are better, gone are the finger grooves, and there is a right side slide release for the

Meet the Berlin Strike Folder from Attleboro Knives. A gentleman’s folder aptly suited for a black tie affair, one in which you may need to free a damsel from restraints. (I’m thinking 007, not “50 Shades of Grey.” Sicko.)

The .40S&W arose as the indirect result of the FBI’s 1986 Miami shootout. If you aren’t familiar with the details surf on over when you’re done here. Any student of small arms is well served to read up on it. Google is your buddy. During the Miami shootout, two FBI special agents were killed and five wounded by a pair of bank robbers wielding a variety of weapons.

When I saw the Zero Tolerance 0460 at SHOT Show last year I knew I had to get my paws on it. It checked all the boxes. It was nothing like I currently owned. It was incredibly cool looking. Well built. And priced just right.

So, what’s the right height for an autoloading pocket pistol? Based on my top five picks, anywhere from 3.7 to 4.25 inches.

With the right organizational system and the right bag, all of these fit and travel easily with room left over for a laptop, A/C adaptor, some papers and a book. Sure, it’s a lot of stuff, but that’s how I roll. With that, here are my top five important pieces of gear.