U.S.A. –-(Ammoland.com)- A common question around here is “What custom gun does Bill Wilson carry”? There is no easy answer to that because Bill is always tweaking and developing new gun models.
At Wilson Combat the quest for defensive firearm perfection never ends, but we can say that this model is an exact clone of what Bill Wilson carries on most days in the office, around town, or at the ranch.
DESCRIPTION
Chambered in .45 ACP or 9mm, the Bill Wilson Carry II is a shooter’s carry gun. This pistol makes it easy to hit your target accurately in all conditions and because of its concealable size, easy to carry on a daily basis.
Worn in Bill’s preferred Lo-Profile II outside the waistband holster this gun practically disappears under a vest or light shirt. From the compact X-Tac grip frame to the lightweight integral light rail and gold bead sight, this gun is exactly how Bill currently options his daily carry pistols.
The only available options on this model are your choice of Armor Tuff finish color, front sight, single or ambidextrous safety and an optional magwell. No other custom options are available at the time of order/sale or will be performed after the sale by Wilson Combat.
Bill Wilson Carry II Pistol
Available Calibers: .45 ACP, 9mm
Magazine Capacity: 7 rounds (.45 ACP)
Barrel Length: 4”
Overall Length: 7.6”
Sight Radius: 5.6”
Height: 5.1”
Width: 1.3”
Weight Empty: 29.63 oz
Weight Loaded: 34.94 oz
Accuracy Guarantee: 1.5” at 25 yds
Bill Wilson Carry II PistolBill Wilson Carry II PistolBill Wilson Carry II PistolBill Wilson Carry II PistolBill Wilson Carry II PistolBill Wilson Carry II PistolBill Wilson Carry II PistolBill Wilson Carry II Pistol
About Wilson Combat:
Since 1977 Wilson Combat has been the leading innovator in high-performance, custom 1911 handguns, tactical long guns and accessories. A Wilson Combat product’s unmatched level of exceptional reliability and peerless craftsmanship is only equaled by our legendary customer service. Learn more about them on their website.
Honor Defense Approved For Use By Huntsville, Texas Police DepartmentHonor Defense LLC
U.S.A. –-(Ammoland.com)-Honor Defense is pleased to announce that the HONOR GUARD 9mm is now approved by the Huntsville, Texas Police Department as a backup or off-duty gun of choice.
“We are honored and privileged to be approved by this department. The approved weapons are the same models available to consumers as well. As a single-stack 9mm pistol with superior ergonomic features, the HONOR GUARD provides Officers with maximum concealment and reliability,” quoted Gary Ramey – President of Honor Defense.
Ramey added, “We are pleased that after extensive testing, law enforcement agencies are approving the Honor Defense pistols for use.”
At just .96-inches wide, the HONOR GUARD models are easy to carry and conceal. The firearms come equipped with seven-round flush model and eight-round extended magazines. Like the commercial HONOR GUARD they feature several models for the Officers to choose from.
Honor Defense is the only American striker-fired single stack 9mm pistol with a modular chassis. Grips are available in 3 different sizes and two barrel lengths of 3.2′ and 3.8′ are available.
For more information, contact Honor Defense at 678-943-8035 or visit their website at www.honordefense.com.
About Honor Defense
Honor Defense firearms represent the next generation of modular handguns. Honor Defense firearms have more features than any other sub-compact pistol. Every part is manufactured in the U.S.A. to our highest standards. You can't buy a better pistol right out of the box. To create their pistols, Honor Defense secured input from a panel of professionals that have defended our nation or have extensive credentials in self-defense training.
For more information, please visit HONORDEFENSE.COM
U.S.A. –-(Ammoland.com)- Honor Defense is pleased to launch the 2017 Pro Staff purchase program for Stocking Dealers.
Stocking Dealer employees can now purchase an Honor Guard Sub-Compact (HG9SC) or Sub-Compact Fist (HG9SCF) handguns for only $299.
This represents a savings of $200 off MSRP (40% discount).
“We want to support the retail stores that stock Honor Defense. It's important that store personnel experience why Honor Defense has been called “the best single stack 9mm pistol. We hope they take advantage of this program.” said Gary Ramey, President of Honor Defense.
Only 5 units purchased by 4/1/2017 are required to be a Stocking Dealer and qualify for this program. All store employees are eligible to purchase either an Honor Guard HG9SC or HG9SCF FIST pistol at this reduced price. To obtain the discount, employees must email or fax the 2017 Pro Staff form to Honor Defense. The form must have the Dealer Manager's signature, be accompanied by a copy of the FFL and the name of Distributor where they qualified for stocking dealer status.
The Honor Guard will be shipped to the FFL via USPS for a $10 shipping/handling fee. Payment can be made via check or with a credit card ($10 processing fee) over the phone.
The Honor Guard models are the only American company modular single stack 9mm. The Pro Staff models (HG9SC and HG9SCF FIST) feature a 3.2-inch barrel, two magazines and two sizes of back straps for a custom grip. They feature a stainless steel modular chassis, ambidextrous controls, snag-free sights, custom slide serrations and are easy to rack. The FIST is designed for LE/military usage with an integrated standoff.
To qualify as a Stocking Dealer, be sure to purchase from an authorized Honor Defense Distributor or contact Honor Defense.
For more information about the Pro Staff Program, contact Honor Defense at 678-943-8035.
Honor Defense firearms represent the next generation of modular handguns. Honor Defense firearms have more features than any other sub-compact pistol. Every part is manufactured in the U.S.A. to our highest standards. You can't buy a better pistol right out of the box. To create their pistols, Honor Defense secured input from a panel of professionals that have defended our nation or have extensive credentials in self-defense training.
For more information, please visit HONORDEFENSE.COM
STI Introduces the Optic and Suppressor Ready H.O.S.T. PistolSTI International
U.S.A. –-(Ammoland.com)- The H.O.S.T. (holographic optic slide top) Pistol from STI was designed to be a serious platform for shooters using optics and/or suppressors.
The H.O.S.T. Pistol has tall tritium fixed suppressor sights that are designed to co-witness with mounted optics, allowing shooters to see both the target and sights over the suppressor. The top of the slide is milled out to accept a micro red-dot optic. The pistol comes with a cover plate and adaptor plates for Leupold Delta Point, Vortex Viper and Trijicon RMR sights. (Sights not included)
The black DLC coating is built to withstand the toughest weather conditions and holster wear. Offered in both 1911 and 2011 models, the H.O.S.T. Pistol comes with either a 5.0” or 4.15” barrel. Both barrel offerings have a small classic cut to allow for use with all suppressors without the need for an extended adaptor. This gives the advantage of having a long dust cover with a shorter overall length. Available in 9 mm, .45 or 10mm (5.0 only in 10mm) the H.O.S.T. Pistol from STI will easily host a wide variety of accessories, optics and suppressors.
The 1911 model sells for $2,599 and the 2011 model for $3,199.
For more information, please visit www.stiguns.com or e-mail marketing@stiguns.com.
About STI International.
Performance Defined. STI is based out of Georgetown, Texas and is the premier manufacturer of 1911 & 2011 style firearms. The company is dedicated to providing the highest quality firearms for competition, duty, or self-defense use. From introducing the firearms industry into the precision world of “EDM” hammers, sears, and components to the invention of the legendary 2011 platform, STI has continually led the firearms market in product development and quality.
U.S.A. –-(Ammoland.com)- Honor Defense, maker of Honor Guard 9mm pistols, will be attending the National Rifle Association's Annual Meetings & Exhibits at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, April 27-30.
Consumers interested in learning more about these American-made, modular handguns should stop by Booth 3358 to meet and talk with the Honor Defense team (www.honordefense.com).
“NRA Annual Meetings are the largest gathering of the 2nd Amendment enthusiasts in America,” said Gary Ramey, President of Honor Defense. “There is no better place to showcase the features and uniqueness of the Honor Guard. We are also proud to support the NRA, which is the strongest proponent of the 2nd Amendment rights in the country. We look forward to meeting everyone at the show”
The Honor Guard was developed through corroboration with military, police and civilian firearm experts to build the best single-stack 9mm available in six variations with two barrel lengths and three grip sizes. It is also the only handgun available with Firearm with Integrated Standoff (FIST), which keeps the gun in battery even in extreme close-combat situations.
The Longslide versions come with an accessories rail for attaching lights and lasers, and all of the Honor Guard 9 mm handguns can be disassembled without a tool or pulling the trigger.
The NRA Annual Meetings (NRAAM.org) feature more than 800 exhibitors, and include seminars, meetings, celebrity appearances and more.
About Honor Defense
Honor Defense firearms represent the next generation of modular handguns. Honor Defense firearms have more features than any other sub-compact pistol. Every part is manufactured in the U.S.A. to our highest standards. You can't buy a better pistol right out of the box. To create their pistols, Honor Defense secured input from a panel of professionals that have defended our nation or have extensive credentials in self-defense training.
by Sam Hoober Alien Gear's Sam Hoober makes the case that good quality ammunition, or the bullet you carry, is actually more important than how big it is or how fast it flies.
Quality AmmunitionSam Hoober
U.S.A. –-(Ammoland.com)- The caliber wars are as redundant as they are hackneyed at this point, but that hasn't stopped people from going on and on about how 9mm is better than .45 ACP or vice versa, or how .40 is a great medium between the two and so on.
Some people even chime in that .380 is actually a viable defense round and everyone needs to stop trashing it.
Then the revolver guys start in on .357 Magnum and so on and so forth.
No Such Thing As Stopping Power
The truth is that stopping power is a myth, so unless you carry a .45-70 Mare's leg it's just not really an attribute that a handgun has. That said, all of the proven defensive calibers are great for a carry gun, but it isn't the number printed on the rim that matters.
What DOES matter? Shot placement, certainly, but what arguably matters almost more than anything is actually the ammunition you use. If there is anything that's held as true when it comes to the defensive use of the handgun over the decades is that quality ammunition makes far more difference than caliber.
Quality Ammunition
Fully-jacketed bullets are very good at punching through targets, be they paper or of the fleshy variety. The reason why .45 ACP was popular was that a bigger bullet poked a bigger hole and thus did more damage than a smaller one. However, what we know now is that a decent 9mm JHP round is going to be better than 230-grain ball.
Quality Ammunition Hollow Points
That is exactly the reason why it took law enforcement so long to adopt semi-auto pistols. In past eras, the only quality hollowpoints or semi-wadcutter hollowpoints made on any kind of scale were made for .38 Special and .357 Magnum pistols. Since good hollow points weren't available over-the-counter for 9mm or .45 ACP, departments and agencies relied on the ammunition that was known to be effective until semi-auto rounds began to catch up.
Ammunition Has Come A Long Way
Improvements in ammunition quality are why more and more police departments and federal agencies are switching to 9mm after dalliances with .40 S&W, .357 Sig and so on. With quality hollowpoints, a round that might otherwise seem underpowered becomes devastatingly effective.
With quality ammunition hollowpoints, a round that might otherwise seem underpowered becomes devastatingly effective.
Good carry ammunition doesn't punch through a target; it expands inside the target, creating a larger wound channel and coming to rest inside the assailant. The expansion causes more damage, hopefully enough to incapacitate the threat or at least convince them to quit the engagement. Penetration is also important, as a good defensive round should be able to penetrate through several layers of clothing as well as other materials before reaching the target.
While ballistic testing is far from perfect, it can at least start to approximate what a round may potentially do when shot into a human target. Testing by ammunition makers, governmental organizations, and private citizens has demonstrated that plenty of quality ammunition is available for all of the proven carry calibers, all of which are capable of sufficient penetration and expansion to be relied upon when it matters.
Granted, some calibers will require a bit more searching than others to find the best rounds, but there are .380 loads that are perfectly adequate for defensive purposes. A bevy of quality loads in 9mm, .40, .45 and so on are available on most gun store shelves or easily online, a number of which – such as Speer Gold Dot, Remington Golden Saber Bonded, Winchester Ranger and Federal HST – have an excellent track record in police service and are very well-suited to use in a concealed carry gun.
About Sam Hoober
Sam Hoober is a contributing editor at Alien Gear Holsters, as well as for Bigfoot Gun Belts. He also writes weekly columns for Daily Caller and USA Carry.
by Josh Wayner Josh takes time out from rifles to review the Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Pistol, this one in Flat Dark Earth.
Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 PistolJosh Wayner
U.S.A. –-(Ammoland.com)- Smith & Wesson has been on a roll in recent years when it comes to modernizing and advancing the designs of their polymer framed pistols.
The Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Pistol brings a great deal to the table for a competitive price. The M&P M 2.0 pistol series is, obviously, the successor of the very popular original M&P lineup.
These pistols are not budget focused excuses for progress, but instead, represent significant forward design momentum in the overall layout and modularity of S&W’s weapons.
Unlike the design departments of other major pistol manufacturers, Smith & Wesson's designers put forth significant effort when looking for new features to include in the 2.0 series pistols. It seems like a no-brainer, but most gun companies take years to catch on with what shooters want if they even do at all. Not so with S&W.
One of the most sought-after features on modern handguns is custom grip stippling or other texturing. If one was to have this process done on a pistol like those available from Glock, it could potentially cost more than $100 and would be a custom proposition. The M&P 2.0 comes standard with a very aggressive grip texture that is nearly equivalent to a 100 grit sandpaper. It allows for a very solid purchase, which in turn allows the shooter to maintain their sight picture better under recoil while preventing slippage in the hand.
Speaking of how it fits in the hand, the 2.0 comes with four unique palm swell inserts to allow for a customized and ergonomic fit to the individual shooter. Changing out these inserts is as simple as rotating and pulling a pin in the butt of the pistol, replacing the insert with the size of your choice, and reinstalling the pin. This is not a flimsy bolt-on afterthought like other designs out there. It is solid and brings a level of customization to the M&P that others just can’t match.
The 2.0 comes with four unique palm swell inserts to allow for a customized and ergonomic fit to the individual shooter.
Among the other features of the pistol are an ambidextrous slide release, forward accessory rail, and excellent steel-bodied magazines, two of which come with a gun. I experienced no firing issues loading either magazine to full capacity along with one in the chamber.
Of particular note is the number of safety features on the gun. The pistol has a standard segmented M&P trigger safety and a manual safety towards the rear of the slide. I have heard from many people that this is an undesirable and unnecessary feature on a modern handgun. This is one of those things that you will have to decide on for yourself. Personally, I find the addition of this manual safety to be a welcome break from what has become the norm among polymer framed handguns. I found the safety, which is ambidextrous, to be easy to use and not at all in the way during firing or carry.
The pistol has a standard segmented M&P trigger safety and a manual safety towards the rear of the slide.
Another safety feature of this pistol is a loaded chamber indicator on the top of the slide. Again, those who use other pistols or even other generations of the M&P series may find this to be an extraneous addition to the gun. I found that it in no way hindered the performance of the weapon and, if anything, was just another feature of this great pistol.
The slide and barrel assembly is nothing short of a work of art and is loaded with features that comparable handguns lack. The recoil spring and guide rod are both made of steel. Contained within the slide is a 5 inch 1:10 twist barrel. The slide itself is beautifully machined and has contours that reduce weight while increasing the visual appeal of the gun. In testing the pistol over several hundred rounds and holstering it frequently, I found that the Flat Dark Earth finish on the slide showed no signs of wear and was very durable.
Contained within the slide is a 5 inch 1:10 twist barrel.
In addition to looking good, the Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Pistol shoots exceptionally well for an off-the-shelf 9mm striker-fired pistol. I tested 11 off-the-shelf loads in the 2.0 that are available at most major retailers at the time of this writing. I experienced no reliability issues whatsoever with any load tested. Thanks to the crisp trigger, long sight radius, and excellent balance, the pistol averaged 4 inches for 10 shots at 25 yards with most loads. The most accurate load in the gun was Hornady 135 grain Critical Duty. It averaged an inch and a half for 10 shots at 25 yards with the largest 10-shot group coming in at just a fraction over 3 inches and the smallest at just under an inch. I was very impressed by this.
Velocities are an average of ten shots five feet from an Oehler 35P chronograph at 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Some potential cons of the Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Pistol?
At this point, I'm not actually entirely sure. Some end-users of this model may find it to be a bit too feature-rich for their taste, but I really didn’t think any of the things not found on comparable pistols from other manufacturers are unwelcome when actually using or carrying it. As far as a modern polymer frame pistol goes, this gun shoots well, is very reliable, and has an attractive appearance to boot.
I carried the gun on and off as well as took it on some hikes and discovered that it was a somewhat neutral presence. It is a large handgun, but at roughly 30 ounces loaded, it is still fairly light and can carry comfortably in a belt holster or chest mounted Hill People Gear heavy Recon kit bag for miles. It might not be my first choice to take to a pistol match, trail adventure, or daily carry, but you could sure do a lot worse at all three using a different gun.
The Smith & Wesson M&P 9 2.0 in Flat Dark Earth is an exceptional value loaded with many custom features that would cost hundreds more on a comparable handgun. If you are looking for a durable, accurate, and dependable full-size 9mm pistol with a modern flair, you would hard-pressed to find a better pistol than this.
It’s ready to rock from the minute it springs out of the box.
Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 Pistol Aftermarket Upgrades:
Josh Wayner has been writing in the gun industry for five years. He is an active competition shooter with 14 medals from Camp Perry. In addition to firearms-related work, Josh enjoys working with animals and researching conservation projects in his home state of Michigan.
by David Tong David says the SIG Sauer P226 Pistol is a great shooting self defense gun but what is up with the MK25 Designation?
SIG Sauer P226 img: m4carbine.net
U.S.A. –-(Ammoland.com)- The large frame SIG-Sauer handgun debuted as the P220 in 1982, chambered in .45ACP. A double-column magazine version in 9X19 emerged in 1984 as the P-226.
Original P226 pistols have the folded and welded sheet carbon steel slides with cross-pinned breechblocks. These pistols were replaced with ones with slides machined from billets of steel, with nosecaps and breechblocks integrally machined
SIG Sauer P226 Pistol
The pistol caught the attention of the US Army who was seeking to replace the WWI and WWII vintage 1911 pistols still serving. The resulting military trials of 1985 had two main competitors, the SIG Sauer P226 and the Beretta M92.
The Beretta won the competition. Both were considered equally reliable under the most exhaustive testing regimen held up that time including dust, ice, mud, rust, sand, snow, and seawater immersion. Cost per pistol unit was less for the SIG, but the Beretta won out because they already had a manufacturing facility here in the U.S., and they offered lower prices for parts replacement so the overall cost was lower. Currently SIG P226 pistols are made in the USA at the SIG Sauer facility (formerly SIGARMS, Incorporated) in Exeter, New Hampshire, USA.
However, in the world of Special Operations, personnel in the Navy were looking for a pistol with greater durability and better foreign debris sealing than the Beretta offered, so they tested the SIG P226 Pistol extensively. This led to the change to the milled from stock stainless slides, and the pistol became the official issue of the SEAL teams.
Other things desired after deployment were better rustproofing of minor components such as trigger group internals, exterior levers, and magazines, as well as an M1913 Picatinny rail for the fitment of flashlights and lasers. The use of “phosphated” components and the RFID tag on the left side of the frame, plus an “anchor” symbol and engraved designation of “MK25” is found on the Navy SEAL SIG Sauer P226 version, on the slide’s left, and represented the ultimate version of the SEAL’s choice in handguns.
An “anchor” symbol and engraved designation of “MK25” is found on the Navy SEAL SIG Sauer P226 version, on the slide’s left, and represented the ultimate version of the SEAL’s choice in handguns. img: gunsngear.tumblr.com
The SIG Sauer P226 handgun has served with distinction for about 15 years, but has been recently (2016) replaced with the smaller, lighter, and much less expensive Glock 19, also in 9X19 NATO caliber as official issue. Of course, Special Ops have the capability to deploy any system they wish, though such recognition of the G19 means that the MK25s days are probably numbered.
Such are the tenets of the military acquisition process. Cheaper, durable, lighter, and simpler wins nearly every time. For the rest of us, the SIG Sauer P226 is a large, soft-shooting 9mm that is accurate and is reliable beyond question.
Then again Hi-Points do have a color selection other than just black.
U.S.A. –-(Ammoland.com)- Hi-Point Firearms produces more than 150,000 firearms a year and there are several reasons for that. First, of course, is price. Other companies produce pretty, nifty-looking 9mm, .40 or .45ACP pistols; some are just flat-out beautiful. You pay for that beauty, though, to the tune of $500 to more than $1,200 MSRP.
Hi-Point pistols are not real pretty or fancy – but they are not expensive, either! Think of them as the original all-purpose, industrial-grade, working man's guns. While other brands produce Cadillacs, Ferraris and Lambos, Hi-Point is more like the all-round, heavy-duty, ranch-use pickup truck. For the price of a like caliber pistol from a “name” maker, you can buy three Hi-Points and 500 rounds of good ammo. Not a bad deal.
Hi-Points are low in cost because they are not fancy. The internals are stamped and machined from steel forgings. They are designed for manufacturing ease to keep the price down, with no fancy grips or shiny parts – just real robust, reliable construction that stands up to years and years of hard use.
A bullet fired from a $205 Hi-Point goes just as fast as it does from a $2,000 pistol. And, the same goes for practical accuracy; no difference. Actually we have found the Hi-Point to out shoot many of the much more expensive pistols.Yes, ya gotta step up to a couple of grand or more if you need one-inch groups at 50 yards, but then you won't be carrying that pretty little puppy with you in the pickup or anywhere else it might get a scratch. But if you can tolerate a handgun that gives you two inches at 50 feet – which covers most $1,000 guns, too – then a $205 Hi-Point will fit the bill (and how many of us can shoot that accurately without the bench anyway?).
Hi-Points are made for real use in any environment, which may mean shoving it into a tackle box when fishing in dangerous areas, banging around in a glove compartment, car trunk, tool box, farm tractor case, or back pack. Hi-Points are made to go where few people want to go with their $600.00+ handguns.
Okay, we have pitched you enough.
The bottom line is this: Hi-Point Firearms makes robust, reliable, accurate, affordable (but not cheap), industrial-grade, working man's handguns and carbines intended for serious hard use where a ding or scratch will not make the owner cry. They are daily users that almost anyone can afford, they are all American-made, from a 30-year old company, and they even come with a lifetime warranty!
About MKS Supply, LLC:
MKS Supply insists on high quality, reliable firearms. We insist on guns that are easy to own and service. Most of all, we insist on value.
Greeley, PA –-(Ammoland.com)- At the 146th NRA Annual Meeting in Atlanta last month, Kahr Arms presented the latest edition to their extensive product line-up. The first two pistols in the new “S” Series were unveiled with two 9mm pistols – the S9093 and the ST9093. The new “S” Series features a redesigned magazine base and grip, a limited lifetime warranty, and ships with two magazines.
The S9093 model features a 3.6” barrel with conventional rifling, an overall length of 5.9”, and a height of 4.5”. This pistol is similar to the CW9093, but this new “S” Series model has the added features of white 3-dot sights, front serrations on the slide, an accessory rail, and an ID tag on the grip. Capacity is 7+1 and the pistol is shipped with two 7-round magazines. MSRP is $477.
Also new in the “S” Series is the ST9093. This pistol features a 4” barrel, has an overall length of 6.5” and a height of 5.08”. Like the S9093, it too has white 3-dot sights, front serrations on the slide, an accessory rail, and an ID tag on the grip. Capacity is 8+1 and the pistol is shipped with two 8-round magazines. MSRP is $456.
Kahr ST9093
Both pistols operate with a trigger cocking DAO, “Safe-Cam” Action, lock breech with “Browning-type” recoil lug and a passive striker block with no magazine disconnect. The frame is black polymer with a matte stainless steel slide.
For more information about these two new models and all of Kahr’s 100% made in the USA products, please go to www.kahr.com or check with your local firearm dealer.
About Kahr Arms:
Kahr Arms, an innovative firearms manufacturer, was founded on fifteen years of manufacturing service in precision metalworking industries. Kahr incorporates the inherited professional, technical expertise into all of its operations. Kahr’s parent company, established in 1981, has been a leading supplier of computer numerical control (CNC) machine tools and applications engineering. Kahr’s corporate headquarters are located in Greeley, PA. Production and assembly operations are located in Worcester, Massachusetts, in the region commonly known as “Gun Valley.”
Glock G19 Gen4 Pistol (original image by Aaron Ragusa )
SMYRNA, GA. –-(Ammoland.com)- The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has denied GLOCK, Inc.’s protest of the Army’s award of the Modular Handgun System (MHS) contract to Sig Sauer.
The focus of GLOCK, Inc.’s protest was that the U.S. Army did not complete the testing outlined in its Request for Proposal (RFP) before awarding the MHS contract to Sig Sauer based only on limited initial testing. During this initial testing, there were no significant differences between the GLOCK and Sig pistols based upon the technical factors that were evaluated. In fact, Sig Sauer was awarded the MHS contract prematurely based upon price.
The remainder of the testing outlined in the RFP that was not conducted was intended to competitively evaluate the two proposals based upon more comprehensive and stringent testing. This testing would have measured the service life, safety, reliability, and accuracy of the pistols in use while being fired by the warfighters.
“By not completing the testing on both proposals on a competitive basis, the Army never determined which pistol would better meet the warfighter’s needs,” said GLOCK, Inc. Vice President Josh Dorsey. We are confident had the Army completed the testing, the GLOCK 19 would have outperformed the Sig P320, as it had in recent testing conducted by a leading federal law enforcement agency which resulted in GLOCK, Inc. being awarded that contract. GLOCK pistols have been battle proven by select units of the U.S. military forces for the past ten years. GLOCK, Inc. stands with the men and women serving in the Armed Forces and will continue to give them its full support.
We thank our technical team for submitting a pistol that met or exceeded all of the Army’s requirements. We also extend our appreciation to our MHS partner, Vista Outdoor’s Federal Cartridge, for creating the most effective and innovative pistol round we have ever tested, which performed flawlessly in the GLOCK 19 MHS model.
About GLOCK, Inc.
GLOCK is a leading global manufacturer of firearms. The simple, safe design of GLOCK’s polymer-based pistols revolutionized the firearms industry and made GLOCK pistols a favorite of military and law enforcement agencies worldwide and among pistol owners. In 2017, GLOCK celebrates its 31st Anniversary in the United States. Renowned for featuring three safeties, GLOCK pistols offer users of every lifestyle confidence they can rely on. GLOCK, Inc. is based in Smyrna, Georgia. For more information, please visit us.glock.com.
Ruger American Compact Pistol in 9mm with Flat Dark Earth frame and Patriot Brown slide
Prescott, Arizona –-(Ammoland.com)- Davidson’s is pleased to announce it has added two new exclusive Ruger products to its offerings. The Ruger American Compact Pistol in 9mm with Flat Dark Earth frame and Patriot Brown slide as well as the GP100 in .22LR with a 4” barrel are now exclusively available from Davidson’s.
Davidson’s Vice President of Sales Matt Nicholson said, “These pistols are great new additions to the Davidson’s Exclusive product line. The ever so popular Patriot Brown and Flat Dark Earth colors paired with the concealable size of the American Compact, this should be a perfect carry option. The GP100 with a 10 shot capacity in .22LR and four inch barrel is an awesome plinker.”
The American Compact Pistol (Item# 8682) features a 3.55” barrel chambered in 9mm and shorter frame making it easier to conceal than the standard full size American Pistol. The Davidson’s Exclusive model features a Flat Dark Earth frame and a Patriot Brown finish on the slide. Included with the pistol is a 12 round magazine, a 17 round magazine with grip extension, and 3 different size grip modules (small, medium, large) to help tailor the grip to the shooter.
The Ruger GP100 (Item# 1766) is a rock solid revolver that provides a comfortable shooting experience for any shooter. The Davidson’s Exclusive model is chambered in .22LR and has a 10 shot capacity. This rugged double action revolver features a fiber optic front sight, adjustable rear sight, all stainless steel construction, cushioned rubber grip with hardwood insert and a 4 inch long barrel.
Ruger GP100 chambered in 22LR
Consumers can purchase these Ruger Exclusives from a local Davidson’s dealer or from GalleryofGuns.com by visiting the Ruger Store at GalleryofGuns.com or by clicking the “Davidson’s Exclusives” tab on the left of the GalleryofGuns.com homepage! Dealers, to place an order or find out more about these Ruger Exclusives please contact your account executive.
About Davidson’s and Gallery of Guns
Founded in 1932, Davidson’s (http://www.davidsonsinc.com) is one of the nation’s leading firearms wholesalers. In late 1998, it launched the Gallery of Guns website (www.galleryofguns.com) specifically to help Davidson’s retailers sell Davidson’s inventory, it is now one of the firearm industry’s most successful consumer websites. Each firearm sold by the company is backed by the Davidson’s GuaranteeD® Lifetime Replacement Program, which extends to both the dealer and final customer.
Newington, N.H. –-(Ammoland.com)- SIG SAUER, Inc., The Complete Systems Provider, is proud to announce the selection of the striker-fired P320 as the sidearm of choice for the North Dakota Highway Patrol (NDHP).
The NDHP was organized in 1935 with just five patrolmen. Their duty was to enforce state laws pertaining to the protection and use of highways in North Dakota, the 19th largest state with the highest number of roads per capita.
Today, the NDHP boasts over 150 sworn officers who are assigned a wide array of tasks, ranging from driver examinations to protecting the northern border. Before selecting the SIG P320 in 9mm, the NDHP utilized P226 pistols chambered in .357 SIG.
“The North Dakota Highway Patrol looks forward to the transition to the SIG SAUER P320,” said Captain Thomas Iverson. “After a thorough testing process, we are confident the new weapon will serve our agency well.”
Since its introduction in January 2014, the revolutionary P320 has gained tremendous momentum in the firearm world. Earlier this year, the U.S. Army selected a variant of the P320 as its next service pistol. With unprecedented modularity and a clean, crisp trigger pull, the P320 sets a new standard for striker-fired performance. The serialized trigger group is interchangeable, allowing the shooter to transform the size and caliber of the pistol. Full size, Carry, Compact and Subcompact frames are available. Grip frames are further divided into small, medium and large to accommodate any hand size.
“From scorching summers to brutal winters, the North Dakota Highway Patrol works in some of the country’s most extreme weather. We are honored that the agency continues to trust the reliability of the SIG SAUER firearms in this harsh environment,” said Tom Jankiewicz, Executive Vice President, Law Enforcement Sales. “We have a long history of providing only the best firearms for law enforcement use, and we are humbled that officers trust their lives to our products.”
For more information on the complete SIG SAUER line, please visit us at sigsauer.com
SIG SAUER, Inc. is The Complete Systems Provider, leading the industry in American innovation, ingenuity, and manufacturing. SIG SAUER brings a dedication to superior quality, ultimate reliability, and unmatched performance that has made it the brand of choice among many of the world’s elite military, government and law enforcement units as well as responsible citizens. SIG SAUER offers a full array of products to meet any mission parameter, including handguns, rifles, ammunition, electro-optics, suppressors, ASP (Advanced Sport Pellet) airguns and training. The largest member of a worldwide business group of firearms manufacturers that includes SIG SAUER GmbH & Co. KG in Germany and Swiss Arms AG in Switzerland, SIG SAUER is an ISO 9001: 2008 certified company with more than 1,600 employees. For more information on SIG SAUER, any of its products, or the SIG SAUER AcademySM, please visit on to sigsauer.com
Among the first dealers to sell Caracal products are HawkTech Arms of Meridian, Idaho and ABI Tactical of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Please contact these dealers directly to inquire about purchase opportunities and transfer details. Additional FFL dealers are being qualified each week.
The Enhanced F – Limited Edition pistol is a striker-fired, polymer-framed 9mm pistol comprised of a Caracal International frame with a Caracal USA slide, and is assembled in the United States. The pistol features a crisp, short double-action trigger, an 18-round magazine and is available with 3 dot sights, or the highly acclaimed “Quick Sight System,” which places both the front and rear sights on a single focal plane allowing the shooter to acquire a clear flash sight picture on target extremely fast.
The Enhanced F pistol is shipped in a Caracal branded hard case with 2 magazines, an Otis cleaning kit, cable lock, and a user manual. MSRP for the Enhanced F pistol is $599, and is backed by a limited lifetime warranty for the original owner.
FFL dealers interested in selling Caracal products are encouraged to contact sales@caracalusa.com to receive dealer-direct pricing and expedited shipping.
Caracal USA is a wholly owned subsidiary of Caracal International and the exclusive importer and manufacturer of Caracal products in the United States.
Honor Defense Names Sportco as its Midwest Sales Group
U.S.A. –-(Ammoland.com)- Honor Defense is pleased to announce a partnership with Sportco Marketing for sales and marketing in the Midwest.
Honor Defense has quickly established itself as the 100% American single stack 9mm with more features than any other pistol. Noted as the best single stack 9mm available by several Reviewers, Honor Defense takes pride in building the best quality single stack 9mm.
“Unlike some large commodity brands, we build quality into our pistols. Honor Defense has more features than any other CCW pistol and we do it with 100% American parts. To compete with a quality lineup of firearms, when common brands are promoting heavily, you need passion for the category and product,” said Gary Ramey, Honor Defense President. “Sportco has that passion and they are a great fit to the Honor Defense brand.”
“We are excited to partner with Honor Defense,” said Heidi Cordle of Sportco. “They are committed to excellence and customer service, as well as using American parts and veterans assemble every firearm. It is an honor to work with them.”
Sportco was founded in 1991 by hunting and fishing enthusiasts. Employing sales reps with a deep passion for the industry, Sportco believes that one of the most important jobs of a sales agency, assisting the dealer in selling through to the consumer. They work very closely with top dealers and the brands they represent.
Based in Ohio, Sportco (sportcomarketinginc.com) will be representing the Honor Guard in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, South Dakota, North Dakota and Wisconsin. Stores in these areas that are interested is selling the best single-stack 9 mm pistol on the market should contact Sportco at 800-257-4927.
Honor Defense firearms represent the next generation of modular handguns. Honor Defense firearms have more features than any other sub-compact pistol. Every part is manufactured in the U.S.A. to our highest standards. You can't buy a better pistol right out of the box. To create their pistols, Honor Defense secured input from a panel of professionals that have defended our nation or have extensive credentials in self-defense training.
by Michael Cumming Michael gives us his review and range results of the SIG SAUER P320 X-Five Full Size Handgun.
SIG SAUER P320 X-Five Full Size Handgun
U.S.A. –-(Ammoland.com)- About a month ago, I got an opportunity to get a really good deal on a few pistols. I have all the major brand striker fire pistols and I really wanted to take an opportunity to see what the hype over the Sig Sauer P320 X-Five Full Size Handgun is about.
SIG SAUER P320 X-Five Full Size Handgun
SIG SAUER P320 X-Five Full Size Handgun
Is the SIG SAUER P320 X-Five Full Size pistol as different as they say it is? Being a 9 mm, is it really that much smoother shooting compared to any other stock striker fire pistol on the market? I had to find out.
I received my pistol through a Federal Firearms License transfer. When I opened the box I was definitely excited. There sat a brand new bull barreled, factory flat triggered, slide lightened, Sig Legion-esque gripped pistol with four 21 round magazines, fully adjustable LPA Dawson Precision sights, and a gun safety lock. It also has an extended beavertail and the groove for the slide lock is gone.
LPA Dawson Precision sights on the Sig Sauer P320 X-Five Full Size Handgun
Looking closely at the slide, I noticed the Dawson Sights are removable and RMR Adaptor Plate can be attached. The base is made for a Sig Sauer Romeo 1 Mini-Reflex Sight to slide in without modification. Neatly socked away were extra filaments in red and green for the Dawson Sights. It also comes with a removable mag well and a grip weight to balance out this striker fired beast.
Note: It does not come with an allen key to remove the magwell.
In preparation for sighting in the SIG P320 X5 and the test, I took some time to get to know her. That included a thorough cleaning to remove the preservation grease Sig Sauer puts in their pistols, lubing, and dry-fire exercises with some 9mm Snap Caps. This allowed me to get to know the P320 X5 trigger before it was game on. The take up is minimal, and the break was crisp. The reset was very clearly audible with a very distinct feel that said, “Ready to go!” The pull weight was 4.6 lbs from the factory, which is one pound less than the stock P320. The other major difference between the X5 and stock P320s is the reach to the trigger. The P320 X5 seems to have a slightly longer reset, which will take some time to get used to.
Ahh, my favorite part of the review – range time!
I took some time to adjust the rear sights and put about 200 rounds through the pistol to confirm functionality. Shooter beware- this gun was designed for competition and is not zeroed from the factory. The LPA Dawson Precision rear sight was set dead center on the lowest vertical setting. To sight it in, I used 50 rounds at a slow pace to get used to the feel of the gun. Then I used three 5 shot groups at 7 yards with support. The pistol was 3 inches high, and I adjusted elevation from there. Knowing the pistol was dead center before we ran the test, which consisted of 100 rounds being fired at a relatively high rate of speed, the slide was lubed to manufacturer’s specifications. The gun ran and without any issues. There was one failure to fire, but the ammunition appeared to be the culprit, as the primer was depressed. I was using Aguila 124 grain 9mm ammunition.
Sig Sauer P320 X-Five Full Size Nitron Stainless Slide with Lightening Cuts. The ideal slide weight for function and finished for ultimate corrosion resistance.
Is the Sig Sauer P320 X5 the softest shooting, lowest recoil production striker fired pistol on the market? The answer is a very solid yes.
It is also the flattest shooting production pistol I have ever shot. Sig Sauer must have a wizard in their design department. The balance is impeccable, resulting in a shooter experience that is very tame. With those qualities, I believe this would be a great pistol for someone to be taught to shoot with. That being said, this will be the first pistol my daughter will shoot when she is old enough.
So after running the SIG Sauer P320 X5 through some of its paces, what critiques did I have? My biggest critique is Sig Sauer should make sure to recheck that the pistol has all of its listed components. I was missing the grip weight on the P320 X5. I called the SIG Sauer and their customer service fixed the issue very quickly. I didn’t have the gun on hand to give them my serial number, but the agent sent me an e-mail and I was able to respond in a timely fashion. Within 3 hours of my response, the parts were shipped.
There are a few things that I do need to note. The compatibility throughout the 320 line is solid. The old 17 round mags will not work if you take off the magwell. The ears on the magwell are too thick to seat properly. SIG Sauer has made an adjustment to their new mag based plates to allow cross compatibility throughout the whole line. The grip will work with the generation one and generation two fire control units. The new FCU fits and all the previous grips and will also work with previous generations slides. This cross compatibility shows a lot of forward thinking on the part of SIG Sauer.
Rekkr Custom Kydex holster for the SIG SAUER P320 X-Five Full Size
The SIG SAUER P320 X-Five Full Size is definitely designed for the IPSC and IDPA shooters. The P320 X5 can be carried but not very practical. It will not fit in a standard P320 full-size holster unless it has an open bottom, or the holster is made for the gun. There are few companies that offer holsters for the P320-X5. For IDPA and concealed carry, the guys over at Rekkr Custom Kydex have it taken care of. For the ISPC/ USPSA side, Red Hill Tactical is your company to make your holster.
Red Hill Tactical holster for the SIG SAUER P320 X-Five
SIG SAUER P320 X-Five Full Size Pistol Review Parts List:
The author, Michael Cummings, is a middle school educator residing in Virginia. He has a passion for all things that are loud, need cleaned on a regular basis, and/ or use belts, bolts, or magazines to be fed.
YouTube personality, Graham Baates, gives us a video review of the Canik TP9 DA Handgun from Century Arms.
Canik TP9 DA
USA – -(Ammoland.com)- Adding to the ever-expanding lineup of TP9 pistol options from Canik and Century Arms is the new DA model.
So far we've seen TP9s for the budget conscious, for the basic shooter, competitive shooter, and now one filling the unique niche of those wanting a DA/SA option in a striker-fired gun.
This is not a new technology and is best known from the Walther P99 and it's licensed cousin the Magnum Research MR9 we reviewed earlier this year.
Canik TP9 DA Handgun
Like the rest of the TP9 design cues borrow heavily from Walther. As a Walther fan I believe imitation is flattery and am happy to see more of Dr. Dallhammer's ideas in the US market.
The Canik TP9 DA Handgun however is not a complete clone and offers it's own twists. Major differences are the button magazine release and increased capacity of 18+1 instead of the Walther's 15+1 or 16+1.
Before going any further the three trigger modes warrant discussion. They each have a role and the operator has their choice of how to use the handgun. See the video below with the link set to skip directly to that demonstration.
I have been carrying a Walther P99 for years specifically because of that trigger system. Personally, I prefer a double-action first pull, especially with a reset so short and light. Some of you may disagree, and that's ok. I've spent hundreds of hours in training and fought in two wars. I know how I want to run my gun. To see this gun running watch the shooting impressions video below.
If you're considering the Canik TP9 DA Handgun as an option I commend you for your interest in something different from the norm. Here are the product specifications taken directly from the Century Arms product website:
Comes with industry standard dovetail sight cuts that are compatible with a large variety of aftermarket sights
Warren Tactical sights with dot front sight
Match grade barrel
Top-slide-mounted disassembly button
Loaded chamber indicator
Striker status indicator
Improved single action trigger
Reversible magazine catch
MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rail
Comes with two 18 rd. mags., poly holster, paddle and belt attachment, interchangeable backstraps, cleaning rod, brush and a limited lifetime manufacturer's warranty
As you can see there is little not to like about the Canik TP9 DA Handgun. If you don't like the color we tested, don't worry, there are other options.
About Graham Baates
“Graham Baates” is a pen name used by a 15-year active Army veteran who spent most of his time in the tactical side of the Intelligence community including tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. Post-Army Graham spent some time in the 3-Gun circuit before becoming a full-time NRA Certified defensive handgun instructor and now works as an industry writer while curating a YouTube channel on the side. Visit Graham on Youtube .
Viridian Announces New E Series Laser for Ruger Security-9
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn.-(Ammoland.com)- Viridian Weapon Technologies has released a new E Series red laser sight designed exclusively for the Ruger Security-9 semi-automatic 9mm pistol.
Viridian’s universal C Series and X Series laser/light combos are also compatible with the brand new Security-9 handgun. All laser models, including the new E Series red laser, can be purchased online or at select retailers.
Viridian’s E Series laser sight is made for the everyday conceal and carry owner who demands the most powerful red laser allowed in the United States. Delivering rapid target acquisition when it’s needed most, the E Series is an invaluable component to any concealed carry setup. Like all Viridian laser products, the E Series laser includes an industry-best seven-year limited warranty.
The Ruger Security-9 semi-auto pistol is an affordable, dependable option for everyday carry. With a suggested retail price of $379 USD, the Security-9 features rugged construction with blued, through-hardened alloy steel slide and barrel and high-performance, glass-filled nylon grip frame.
Chambered in 9mm Luger and utilizing a 15-round, double-stack magazine, the new mid-sized pistol delivers comfortable concealment with twice the capacity of slimmer 9mm Luger pistols. Safety features include bladed trigger safety, manual safety, neutrally balanced sear and hammer catch.
“We’re excited to give Ruger customers yet another powerful sighting solution immediately after the launch of a new product,” said Viridian President and CEO Brian Hedeen. “We worked in tandem with Ruger’s new product development team ahead of time to ensure our laser was available right away. When paired with the Security-9, our E Series option makes it the ultimate concealment set-up—delivering powerful target acquisition at an affordable price.”
For Ruger customers seeking even more sighting features, the universal C Series and X Series models offer an easy upgrade. Featuring the brightest green and red lasers, brilliant taclights, INSTANT-ON, CREE LED and multiple modes of operation, the C Series and X Series deliver all the features needed to dominate the day or night.
To see a full list of E Series laser sights designed to fit popular gun models, please visit ViridianWeaponTech.com/lasers-lights/e-series.
About Viridian Weapon Technologies:
Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Viridian Weapon Technologies is devoted to applying cutting-edge technology to design compact, powerful self-defense products for the civilian, military and law enforcement markets. Viridian is the leader in weapon-mounted technology and responsible for a number of firearm innovations including green and red laser sights, LED weapon-mounted illuminators and several shooting accessories including the Tacloc Holsters. Viridian products are designed and built in the USA.
Striker-Fired Innovation Comes to America: Introducing the Grand Power Q1S Sub-Compact 9MM Pistol
Wanamassa, NJ –-(Ammoland.com)- Grand Power USA is pleased to announce that the striker-fired Q1S sub-compact 9MM has begun shipping in the United States via Eagle Imports, Inc.
“We’re excited to bring the best of both worlds to American gun owners,” said Michael Sodini, President of Eagle Imports, Inc. “The Grand Power Q1S combines the size and tried-and-true locking principle of the P11 model with a reliable striker-fire trigger mechanism. It’s truly a pleasure to own and shoot.”
Grand Power’s advanced technologies and ergonomic superiority for sport, civilian and professional pistols is well known – and the Q1S continues the tradition beautifully.
Handling is simplified. Controls are minimal. Plus, the Q1S boast the signature rotating barrel locking system that Grand Power owners worldwide have come to expect.
Features include:
Picatinny rail
Rotating barrel for extremely low felt recoil
Ergonomically designed shape
Fully ambidextrous controls
Lifetime service contract for original owners
Grand Power Q1S Specifications:
Caliber: 9MM
Action: Striker
Capacity: 12+1
Barrel Length: 3.7”
Front Sight: Plastic
Rear Sight: Micrometer Adjustable Steel
Finish: Black
Grip: Polymer
Frame: Steel
Slide: Steel
Safety: Firing Pin Safety, Trigger Safety
Weight: 28.10 oz.
Length: 8.70”
Height: 4.60”
Width: 1.40”
MSRP: $574.00
For more information on the Grand Power Q1S, visit www.grandpower.eagleimportsinc.com or contact your local firearms retailer today to see one in person.
About Grand Power:
Grand Power was founded on the passion and expertise of CEO and owner Jaroslav Kuracina. After many attempts to have his innovative pistol produced in his home country of Slovakia, he finally succeeded through the generosity of private investors in 2002. Today, Grand Power is one of the up-and-coming firearms brands worldwide, winning awards at IPSC and on the battlefield.
About Eagle Imports:
Founded in 1988, Eagle Imports is proud of its history and tradition of being an exclusive firearms distributor in the United States. Eagle is committed to fulfilling Bersa, SPS, Metro Arms, Comanche and Grand Power’s mission in the USA and for providing the ultimate after-sale experience for all of their products.
ReX Zero 1T, Tactical Suppressor & Optic Ready 9mm Pistol – Review
U.S.A. –-(Ammoland.com)- A few years ago, I received an email about a new line of pistols coming from Slovenia known as the Rex pistols by Arex. As I looked over the pictures in my inbox, I thought they looked a lot like clones of the SIG P226. I noticed the price was several hundred dollars cheaper and that usually signifies that there has been a compromise made somewhere, either in the form of cheap parts or cheap labor.
I made a mental note to request one for review and was prepared to be unimpressed.
This is not to say that clones are a bad thing. Over the years we have come to prefer some of them over the originals like the FEG Hi-Power clones or the Tanfoglio CZ pattern handguns. Then again those are direct copies whereas the Rex pistols could be more accurately described as “inspired by” rather than an actual clone.
These pistols are distributed by the FIME Group and they reached out to us asking if we would like to test their latest model: the Rex Zero 1T.
We received a two-tone version in black and flat dark earth with a 5″ threaded barrel. While we were expecting a clone of the venerable SIG P226, the end result was much more.
ReX Zero 1T
The Good
Prior to the Rex pistol, we could not recall any other firearm made in Slovenia, some may have been mildly concerned, yet soon we realized these concerns were baseless.
The Rex Zero 1T has an impeccable fit and finish. We had to struggle to find any machining marks and saw virtually no flaws, sharp edges or anything of that nature after we disassembled it.
This is a very well-built pistol. According to Arex, the pistol is designed to exceed a 30,000-round service life and is rated for +P ammunition.
Rex Zero 1T has an impeccable fit and finish.
Materials are key here, and the slide is milled from solid bar stock steel that has been nitro-carburized. The frame is CNC machined from solid T7075 aluminum bar stock and uses a steel locking block insert.
Take-down and reassembly is identical to the SIG classic line of pistols. There are front and rear cocking serrations which allow easy racking of the pistol, full length frame rails and a full length railed dust cover compatible with M1913 Picatinny. You can add your favorite light, laser or combination of the two with no problem.
The barrel is cold hammer forged from bar stock, threaded 1/2 x 28″ and comes with a thread protector.
This is the more common pattern for most sound suppressors, although we were surprised that a European company did not go with the metric left-hand threads with which we have become used to on our Glocks, SIGs, HKs and Steyrs.
Speaking of sound suppressors, the sights are tall “suppressor type sights” to allow the shooter to see over the silencer or co-witness with an RMR type sight.
The Rex Zero 1T is ready for a red dot sight out of the box and comes with four interchangeable mounting plates in what is known as their ROR (Rex Optics Ready) system.
Plate 1 is intended for use with the Trijicon RMR, plate 2 goes with the C-More sights, plate 3 is for both Shield and J-Point sights, and the fourth plate can fit Eotech, Vortex, Burris, Docter Optik, Insight and Meopta.
Arex Rex Zero 1 9mm Pistol in Tactical. ROR – Rex Optics Ready adapter plates.
The safety and magazine release are ambidextrous, and the pistol can be carried either cocked and locked or de-cocked.
Perhaps the biggest departure from the SIG method of operation is that the slide release and de-cocker are the same unit, which would be the de-cocking lever on a SIG. Where the SIG slide release is found is where Arex located the manual safety.
This gives the shooter options: you can de-cock the pistol and shoot it as a DA/SA or engage the safety and carry cocked and locked like a 1911.
The safety and magazine release are ambidextrous, and the pistol can be carried either cocked and locked or de-cocked.
The Bad
If you are a die-hard SIG junkie, the slightly different manual of arms may frustrate you. We got used to it rather quickly, but if you want to stay with it and are transitioning from the traditional designs, make sure you practice with it before running it in a match, as a duty/self-defense piece or even taking a course.
Our only other issue seemed to be the magazine release spring. Sometimes it did not want to let go of an empty magazine.
Despite the similarities, most parts, including the magazines, are not compatible between the Rex Zero 1T and the SIG Sauer P226. The recoil springs were the only things to us that looked similar. The good news is that spare magazines are reasonably priced.
The Reality
We found ourselves shooting slightly to the left of point of aim at 15 yards. With groups ranging from 1.25” to 2.55” In single action mode we measured the trigger weight to be at 5 to 5.5 pounds and double action mode was closer to 11 pounds.
The Rex Zero 1T digested every round we fed it without a single hiccup. That included 115 grain Winchester White Box and Wilson Combat 147 grain JHP and every miscellaneous round in between.
FIME Group claims the Rex Zero 1T to be “the most sought-after pistol in the world”. That may sound like marketing hype to most people, but in this case, I believe it.
I was prepared to be underwhelmed with the Rex Zero 1T, but on the contrary, I was completely impressed on every level. Even though I have at least 10 SIG pistols in my safe, I will be adding a Rex Zero 1T to my stable somewhere down the line.
The best part of these pistols is their relatively low MSRP, the Rex Zero 1T retails for $869.
Mike Searson's career as a shooter began as a Marine Rifleman at age 17. He has worked in the firearms industry his entire adult life as a Gunsmith, Ballistician, Consultant, Salesman, Author and was first certified to teach firearms safety in 1989.
Mike has written over 2000 articles for a number of magazines, websites and newsletters including Blade, RECOIL, OFF-GRID, Tactical Officer, SWAT, Tactical World, Gun Digest, Examiner.com and the US Concealed Carry Association as well as AmmoLand Shooting Sports News.
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About Viridian Weapon Technologies:
