U.S. Special Operations Command has it almost as good as we do when it comes to getting their hands on new rifles. Their unique logistics and acquisitions process does not require the multiphase, multiyear trial and selection process mandated by the rest of the military. This allows them to fulfill niche needs and build specialized…
Photos by Carolyn Officer The concept of combining physical activity with marksmanship is nothing new. In fact, doing so dates back centuries, with the first recorded competition, often considered the first biathlon, taking place in 1767 between Norway and Sweden with skiers carrying rifles for the purpose of sport. Then, in 1861, Norway established the…
Photos by Dave Merrill and Steven Kuo If there’s a pistol that’s captured the imagination of the current moment, it’s the 2011 — at least what we colloquially and collectively call the 2011 (much to the chagrin of the actual trademark owners). These more-modern hi-cap tricked 1911 pistols, mostly chambered in 9mm, are seemingly everywhere.…
Building a basic AR-15 isn’t much more difficult than assembling IKEA furniture. You’ll need some hand tools, patience, and will have to refer to instructions the first few times, but it’s relatively tough to screw up if you’re mechanically proficient. Most parts fit together interchangeably, and if you run into a problem, it’s easy to…
For 49 years, the mission of Gunsite Academy has been crystal clear; the institution teaches folks how to defend themselves and their loved ones with firearms. LTC Cooper created the curriculum after watching the “Leatherslap Matches” of the 1960s where shooters from all walks of life (not just law enforcement and military) competed. He evaluated…
Springfield Armory has introduced four California-legal versions of its Echelon modular 9mm pistol family! The lineup includes two full-size and two compact variants: the 4.5F (4.5-inch barrel), the 4.5F Comp (4.5-inch with an integral compensator), the 4.0C (4.0-inch compact), and the 4.0C Comp (4.0-inch compact with an integral compensator). All four ships with California-required safety…
Subgun Named for a Snake-Eater The mongoose is a carnivorous mammal, a quick little bold badass impervious to most venoms that hails from Africa and south Asia. They’re known for adventurous attacks on dangerous creatures like king cobras and scorpions. This celebrated snake-eater once even graced the sides of quart cans of Mongoose Malt Liquor,…
BEARS IN THE BACKCOUNTRY. OH, MY. [Editor’s Note] The following article contains graphic images of the aftermath of a bear attack. Bret Bohn doesn’t remember how fast he was moving or if his feet were even touching the ground. As he rushed down the snow-covered bank toward what was surely a bloody horror, there was…