Читать книгу Guns Illustrated 2011 - Dan Shideler - Страница 9
ОглавлениеSEMI-AUTO PISTOLS BY JOHN MALLOY
The big news in the semiautomatic pistol world for 2011 is, of course, that the Colt/ Browning 1911 design has been in continuous — and growing — production for a full 100 years!
Few manufactured items of any kind are made continuously for a century. It is even rarer for a century-old item to be the leader in its fi eld. This position, however, has been achieved by the Colt/Browning 1911 pistol design.
As the 1911’s centennial approached, the venerable design gained, rather than lost, popularity. With the passing of the years, more and more companies added 1911s to their product lines. In the year 2010 alone, over half a dozen firms added their names to those offering a 1911. To celebrate the 100th anniversary, 1911 centennial commemoratives will be offered by a number of companies.
Not only has the original centerfire locked-breech 1911 design remained popular, but 22-caliber versions — blowback pistols styled after the 1911, and with many 1911 features — have been offered. Several new ones appear this year alone.
Even with the historical importance of the centennial, the news is not all 1911. The recent trend of very small 380-caliber pistols continues into this year. A number of new little .380s are added this year, offered by both major firms and smaller companies.
22-caliber pistols are always of interest, whether they look like 1911s or not. Several new .22 semiautomatic pistols appear this year. Also, more new conversion kits to allow larger-caliber pistols to handle .22 Long Rifle ammunition are being introduced. .22 pistols are regularly used for training, competition, hunting and recreational shooting.
Polymer-frame pistols remain strong sellers. Slowly gaining popularity over the years, polymers have become a mainstay in the world of autoloading pistols. A number of new polymer-frame guns, from a variety of companies, and in a variety of calibers, are being introduced.
Pistols varying greatly from traditional designs are being made, and the usefulness of carbines chambered for traditional autoloading pistol cartridges has been demonstrated. So, in this report, I’ll continue to cover unconventional pistols and pistol-caliber carbines. There are a lot of very interesting things going on in the world of semiautomatic pistols. Let’s take a look at what the companies are offering:
AKDAL
The Turkish-made Akdal pistols have found a home in America. They will be imported by American Tactical Imports. (See ATI.) Akdal pistols were introduced by ATI in January 2010. These pistols, first mentioned on these pages last year, are polymer-frame pistols in 9mm and .40 S&W, designed to compete in the Glock niche. These new pistols may be wearing new names when they reach the production stage.
AMERICAN CLASSIC
American Classic 1911 pistols are imported by Import Sports, a New Jersey company. The original 1911-A1 “Mil-Spec” version has been joined by enhanced American Classic II (full-size 5-inch) and Commander (4.25-inch) variants. Both of these pistols are available with either deep blue or new hard chrome finishes.
The new top-of-the-line Trophy Model is a full-size 5-inch gun available in hard chrome finish only. It has a number of enhancements, including adjustable Novak-type rear sight, dovetailed fi ber-optic front sight, front and rear slide serrations, full-length guide rod and eight-round magazine.
ARMSCOR
Armscor is a Philippine manufacturing company with U. S. headquarters in Nevada. The company produces pistols patterned after the 1911 and CZ-75 pistols. In the United States, 1911-type guns are sold under the Rock Island Armory (RIA) name. With the current interest in 22-caliber 1911 pistols, a new RIA 22-caliber pistol was displayed at the 2010 SHOT Show. Of “open-top” slide design, the new .22 pistol has a fixed barrel. Production models were scheduled for summer of 2010.
ATI
American Tactical Imports, a relatively new player in the semiautomatic pistol fi eld, seems to have a larger presence with the passing of time.
The line of ATI ported double-action pistols introduced last year, made by the Tisas firm in Turkey, is now in full production. These are striking-looking pistols, with true functional barrel porting, and also decorative porting on the sides of the slides.
There is also a new high-capacity 9mm with similar mechanism, but styled somewhat after the Browning Hi-Power 9mm pistol. It is designated the American Tactical HP9. The HP9 has a 5-inch barrel and carries an 18-round magazine. It is available in black, chrome and two-tone finishes.
And, if we have a pistol that favors the Hi-Power, why not one that looks a bit like the Beretta 92? ATI is also marketing a new 9mm AT92. The AT92 can be had in a full-size version with 4.9-inch barrel, and a compact with 4.3-inch barrel. Capacity is 15+1.
GSG (German Sporting Guns) firearms are also imported by ATI. So new it didn’t get into the catalog is the GSG 1911 22-caliber pistol. Made as a .22 rimfire pistol, the frame and all other parts below the slide are all big-bore 1911. The .22 magazine is the same thickness as that of the original 45. ATI describes it as having “the same weight and feel of a 1911 pistol with many interchangeable parts.”
And, now, as of January 21, 2010, ATI will also offer full-caliber 1911 pistols. A few prototypes on display at the 2010 SHOT Show were marked “American Tactical M1911 A1.” A “Mil-Spec” 5-inch pistol will be one of the first variants offered. Pistols with rails, enhanced models, and short cone-barrel variants are also in the works. The popularity of the 1911 is stronger now than ever before, and now ATI will have a full line of 1911 pistols.
Here is a look at a prototype Armscor Rock Island 22-caliber 1911 pistol. It has an open-top slide to reduce weight.
The largest of ATI’s line of Turkish-designed double-action ported pistols is the .45 ACP Model C45.
American Tactical’s HP9 pistol looks a bit like one might expect a double-action Hi-Power to look. The double-column magazine holds 18 rounds.
ATI also distributes the Guncrafter Industries 50-caliber conversion kit for Glock pistols. The kit consists of a complete top end and magazine, and fits Glock Models 20 and 21. When the kit is installed, the Glock can handle the powerful .50 GI cartridge, with 275- and 300-gr. bullets at 875 and 700 fps.
BERETTA
Beretta doesn’t make a 1911, but they do have an anniversary. The Beretta 9mm pistol was adopted by the US military in 1985, so it has achieved its 25th year of service. Actually, the design dates back to 1975, when the Beretta Model 92 came into being. A variant of the 92 was adopted as the US service pistol on April 10, 1985, and became the M9. The commercial 25th Anniversary M9 pistol available to civilians is a close copy of the military M9, with military-style markings that are close to those of the actual military pistols. They have a unique M9 prefix to the serial numbers.
The Model 92 series has some new variants now. The most distinctive feature of the new 92A1 (9mm) and 96A1 (40) is the rail on the forward part of the frame. They also have higher-capacity magazines (17 rounds in 9mm, 12 in 40), and removable front sights. There are some internal modifi cations also, and — note this — the trigger guards are now rounded.
The PX4 Storm has a new variant in the series. A compact Storm is now between the full-size and sub-compact versions. The new Compact Storm has a 3.2-inch barrel, which gives it a 6.8-inch overall length and 5.2-inch height. It weighs about 27 ounces. Magazine capacity is 15 rounds in 9mm, and 12 rounds in .40 S&W.
The NEOS pistol now has a new carbine kit available. The kit has a grip frame that is moulded with a shoulder stock, and a longer barrel. These parts allow the conversion of the pistol into a handy carbine for informal shooting. Each kit comes with a warning against using the shoulder stock frame with the original pistol barrel.
BERSA
Acknowledging the presence of women in the shooting world is a good thing. A rather abstract way of doing this is to put colors generally related to the female sex on special pistols. In 2010, Bersa joined other companies by promoting the color pink. The Bersa Thunder 380 will now be available with optional pink grips.
A new line of Bersa polymer-frame concealed-carry pistols with a slim grip profile is in the works. Planned in 9mm (BP9cc) and .40 S&W (BP40cc), the new polymer-frame Bersas will weigh about 21 ounces, with 3.2-inch barrels. The new compact pistols look good. However, as of January 2010, the new pistols had not yet been approved by BATFE, so all I can do here is give you this advance notice.
BREN TEN
The Bren Ten is back! Really, the exact name, this time. In the last edition of this publication, recall that Vltor had already put into production an improved version of the original Bren Ten as the Vltor Fortis pistol. Since then, the company has acquired the rights to the name “Bren Ten.” Pistols will now be marketed under the Bren Ten name. Bren Ten-marked pistols were planned for May 2010 availability. Standard, Vice and Special Forces variants are scheduled. They are made by Vltor and distributed by Sporting Products, LLC.
BROWNING
Browning doesn’t have a 1911 in its line, but the Hi-Power, introduced in 1935, reached its 75th anniversary in 2010. Special Hi-Power pistols made during 2010 will have commemorative engraving on the top of the slide. Three variants were planned: a Standard model with walnut grips and fixed sights, a Standard model with walnut grips and adjustable sights, and a Mark III variant with composite grips with matte finish and fixed sights. The Hi-Power is available in 9mm and .40 S&W, but all the 75th Anniversary engraved versions will be in the original 9mm chambering only.
New lighter Buck Mark 22-caliber pistols have been added to Browning’s rimfire pistol line. The pistols have fluted aluminum alloy barrels with steel sleeves. Available with 5.5-inch (28 ounces) or 7.5-inch (30 ounces) barrels, the guns are available with either matte grey or matte green finishes.
CANIK
A new line of Turkish-made pistols was introduced at the 2010 SHOT Show. Introduced as the Canik 55 series, the 9mm pistols are based on the CZ 75 double-action system. The basic “Standard” model is accompanied by the self-descriptive “Light” and “Compact” models. Variations from these offerings seem to be identifi ed with sea-life names such as the Shark, the Piranha, the Stingray and the Dolphin. No importer had been named at the time of this writing.
CENTURY INTERNATIONAL ARMS
Century International Arms continues to offer its Arcus 9mm pistols (double-action versions of the Browning HP) and its line of Shooters Arms 45-caliber 1911 pistols, as well as other traditional semiauto pistols. This year, something a bit more unconventional is offered in the form of the Colefire Magnum pistol. The Colefire has the appearance of the Sterling 9mm submachinegun design but is a semiautomatic pistol chambered for the 7.62x25mm Tokarev cartridge. The unusual pistol uses a modifi ed side-mounted Sten magazine that holds 25 rounds of ammunition. Why 7.62x25? Well, during the ammunition shortage that is still continuing at the time of this writing, surplus Tokarev ammo is one of the least expensive and most readily-available kinds of surplus pistol ammunition! The Colefire has a 4.5-inch barrel and is a bit over 13 inches long. It weighs well over four pounds, and should be easy to shoot for even long plinking sessions.
CHARLES DALY
A sad note. KBI, the parent company of Charles Daly and other firearms brands, went out of business on January 29, 2010. As of the time of this writing, arrangements were being made for another company to handle service for guns that had been offered by KBI. In its last year, KBI marketed handguns bearing the names Charles Daly and Jericho, as well as the new line of CD striker-fired pistols.
A company statement expressed hope that another firm will offer Charles Daly products in the future.
CHIAPPA
Introduced in prototype on these pages last year, the Chiappa 1911 22-caliber pistol is now a production item. Styled after the popular 45-caliber 1911 pistol, the concept behind the Chiappa 1911 22 was to provide a 22-caliber semiauto pistol at a cost less than that of a conversion kit for a 45.
The black-finish production pistols fall into three categories, separated basically by sighting systems. The Standard Model 1911-22 has traditional fixed sights. The Tactical model has an angled rear sight that extends slightly to the rear of the rear sight dovetail.
The Target model has a fully-adjustable rear sight. Other options are two-tone variants, which combine the black frame with a slide colored either tan or olive drab. All variants are supplied with double-diamond grips with the Chiappa logo in the middle. Barrels are 5 inches, weight is 32 ounces, and magazines hold 10 rounds of 22 Long Rifle ammunition. A sample target demonstrated by Chiappa showed impressive accuracy.
The Chiappa Model 1911-22 is distributed in America by MKS Supply. Essentially identical pistols, marked PUMA 1911-22, are also distributed by Legacy Sports International.
CIMARRON
For many years, Cimarron has been a leader in providing the superb replicas of historical rifles and revolvers favored by Cowboy Action shooters. Now, for the first time, the company will offer semiautomatic pistols.
Cimarron is working with Armscor to make a true 1911, representative of the period during which the “old west” was gradually becoming modernized. This transitional period is sometimes referred to as the “Wild Bunch” era, memorialized by motion pictures such as The Wild Bunch, The Professionals, and Big Jake.
A few prototypes were exhibited at the Cimarron display at the 2010 SHOT Show.
They had true 1911 frames, without the recesses behind the trigger area. The slides were marked with the original patent dates to 1913 and carried the Cimarron name. Production versions will have, of course, double-diamond wood grips. A company representative said they were looking ahead to a 100-year commemorative version.
C.O. ARMS
New 1911-style pistols have recently been introduced by C.O. Arms, a company based in Millington, Tennessee. The Scorpion model is a full-size model with forged stainless-steel slide and frame. The Stinger variant has a short 3.25-inch barrel and slide, but has a full-size aluminum grip frame length, giving it 9+1 capacity. Caliber? .45 ACP, of course.
Century International Arms markets the 9mm Arcus pistol, a Bulgarian-made double-action modification of the Hi-Power pistol.
Beretta’s series of PX4 Storm pistols now has a new compact version. The new rotating-barrel handgun has a 3.2-inch barrel.
The Chiappa 1911-22 duplicates the look and feel of a full-size 1911 pistol and is chambered for the .22 Long Rifle cartridge.
The appearance of Century International’s new Colefire semiautomatic pistol shows its origins in the Sterling submachinegun design. It is chambered for inexpensive 7.62x25mm ammunition.
A new Tennessee company, CO Arms, offers several variants of the basic 1911 pistol.
Five years ago, CZ-USA brought out a 30-year commemorative for the 1975 CZ 75 design, and possibly the company will also have a similar 35-year commemorative.
The new polymer-frame CZ 75 P-07 Duty pistol can be easily recognized by its unusual large trigger guard.
The Dan Wesson Valor, a 5-inch 1911 pistol, here with a brushed stainless-steel finish, is new for 2010.
FNH-USA’s FNP-45 Tactical pistol is a polymer-frame military-style handgun with an elongate threaded barrel.
Ed Brown Products has brought out a special commemorative 45-caliber 1911 to recognize Massad Ayoob.
COBRA
Cobra Enterprises, a Utah company, offers personal-protection semiautomatic pistols in calibers from .32 ACP to .45 ACP. Small variations slip into the catalog with little fanfare. A new finish is now offered for their Patriot 45, a 19-ounce polymer-frame double-action-only (DAO) pistol. Previously available with the stainless-steel slide covered in a matte black finish, it is now offered in polished finish for those who like a bright slide on a two-tone pistol. The Patriot has one of the best DAO autopistol triggers I have tried — much like a good revolver double-action trigger.
COLT
Needless to say, Colt is taking the 100th anniversary of its Colt/Browning 1911 design seriously. All guns made during the year of 2011 will have special markings. The company is not just going to put a new roll-stamp on existing products, however. Colt has a number of new variants of the basic 1911 offered, in order to cover as many niches as possible.
The Colt Rail Gun, introduced on these pages last year as a stainless-steel pistol, is now also available with a blackened finish. The 9mm chambering, popular with many women, and with men who want a lower-recoiling pistol, is now offered in its small Defender (3-inch, stainless-steel carry pistol with white-dot sights) and New Agent (3-inch, blued carry pistol with trench sight system).
The New Agent 45 is now also available in a new double-action-only version. Colt is coming back into the double-action world with relatively little fanfare, as its Double Eagle offering of the past did not take the firearms world by storm. The full-size 5-inch Government Model is also available in a double-action-only variant. This variant is of additional interest because it is also put together with a lightweight aluminum-alloy frame.
In addition, the standard single-action Government Model is also now available with the lightweight frame. A number of shooters have expressed interest in a lighter full-size 5-inch Government Model as a good carry pistol. In some modes of carry, the forward weight distribution of the longer barrel actually allows easier carry, as well as slightly improved ballistics The reduced weight can make carry easier.
Colt also is making a pitch for parts sales via the internet. A customer can go to www.coltsmfg.com and order original-equipment spare parts and accessories direct from the factory, at what the company describes as “unbeatable prices.”
COONAN
Coonan is back! Regular readers of this report will recall Coonan Arms as a manufacturer of modifi ed 1911 pistols that would handle the .357 Magnum revolver cartridge. Some years ago, they had expanded the product line to include the .41 Magnum, but then fi nancial problems caused the company to close. Now Coonan is back, with the guns in full production in .357 chambering. Standard 5-inch, and more compact 4-inch versions are offered. Will the .41 again be available? A company offi cial said it is a possibility.
CZECHPOINT
Czechpoint, Inc. (easy to remember the name), operating from Knoxville, Tennessee, distributes firearms manufactured in the Czech Republic. Along with a number of rifles, Czechpoint also offers the .32 ACP Scorpion pistol. Recall that the original “Skorpion” was a tiny .32 ACP submachinegun developed by the Czechs for clandestine use while the country was under Communist control.
The newly-made Scorpion pistol is the same size as the original (10.6 inches long, 4.5-inch barrel, weight 39 ounces) but is semiautomatic only and has no provision for the wire shoulder stock of the original. The mechanism is straight blowback, and the gun is fed from either 10- or 20-round detachable magazines.
With each Scorpion pistol comes a hard case, one 10-round and two 20-round magazines, a magazine pouch, a holster, and — a nice touch — a CD with the owner’s manual and the history of the gun. Grips can be one of four different styles of wood or plastic.
CZ-USA
The latest pistol to be imported by CZ-USA is the CZ 75 P-07 Duty, announced on these pages last year. It is a conventional double action, steel-slide, polymer-frame pistol. Barrel length is 3.7 inches. The overall dimensions are roughly 5x7 inches, placing the P-07 in the compact class. Weight is about 27 ounces. The capacity of this 9mm pistol is 16+1. Unlike the other CZ 75 variants, the P-07 is shipped as a decocker-only, but parts are available for an owner-installed conversion to permit cocked-and-locked operation. Perhaps the most noticeable feature of the P-07 is its unusual extra-large trigger guard, with a long vertical front portion. Because the front of the frame has a moulded accessory rail, it seems almost as if the trigger guard was designed as an index for an attached accessory. Originally introduced in 9mm, the P-07 will soon be available in .40 S&W, with 12+1 capacity.
A limited edition stainless-steel variant of the CZ 75 B (the B indicates the new firing-pin safety) was offered in early 2010. It is a full-size pistol with 4.7-inch barrel, in 9mm, with 16+1 capacity. The stainless pistol is fitted with an ambidextrous safety, which the standard CZ 75 B does not have.
The CZ Custom Shop offers several competition and target variants that do not appear in the general CZ lineup. Although the pistol dates back to 1975, I have not yet heard of a 35-year commemorative edition, but one may be in the works. The company brought out a special 30-year commemorative, and at this time, when commemoratives are in the air, we might yet see a 35th year pistol.
We are in a period of great interest in accessory rails on pistols. Relatively few shooters regularly use the rails for light or laser attachment, but the rails can be put to such use when desired. Now, CZ gives us another use. The company offers a bayonet suited to attachment on the rails! The bayonet also has a rail, so an additional accessory can be placed below the mounted bayonet. A real attention-catcher.
DAN WESSON
Dan Wesson (recall that the DW company is now under the ownership of CZ-USA) produces 1911-type pistols that extends CZ’s line of double-action autoloaders. Two new models were introduced in early 2010. The Valor is a stainless-steel full-size 5-inch 1911, available in brushed stainless finish, or a matte black “Duty” finish. The new 45-caliber Valor has a match barrel with 1:16 twist, and features Heinie “straight eight” night sights.
Another introduction, the Dan Wesson Guardian pistol, is designed as a lighter “Commander-size” carry pistol. It comes in 9mm chambering, the only 9mm pistol in the Dan Wesson lineup. It is built on an aluminum-alloy frame, which has a “bobtail” treatment at the lower rear portion of the grip frame. The 29-ounce pistol has ambidextrous thumb safeties.
DETONICS
Since the beginning of its history, Detonics has always had the knack of coming up with features outside the mainstream. An innovation for its traditional small 45-caliber CombatMaster is putting the front sight on the barrel itself. This arrangement allows an interesting new way to index the slide and barrel together on the forward travel of the slide.
DIAMONDBACK
Florida has become a major player in the firearms industry, with a number of companies providing a wide range of firearms. The latest addition is Diamondback Firearms, of Cocoa, Florida. Their product is a small new 380-caliber locked-breech pocket pistol, the DB 380. The compact polymer-frame pistol is only 3/4-inch wide and weighs 8.8 ounces. It has a 2.8-inch barrel. Capacity is 6+1. Two 6-round magazines are available, one with a flush base and one with a fi nger-rest base. Trigger mechanism is double-action-only, with a reported 5-pound pull. The trigger activates a striker firing system. The three-dot sights are adjustable for windage on the rear sight. I am not sure how the company name was established; however, having grown up in Florida, I can attest to the fact that the state is home to some spectacular diamondback rattlesnakes. At the time of this writing, RSR, of Grand Prairie, Texas, is the exclusive distributor of the Diamondback DB380.
DOUBLESTAR
The DoubleStar .45 pistol was introduced on these pages two years ago and went into production last year. Now, a new “Combat Pistol” is being offered. The new gun offers the basic pistol with new options. The Combat Pistol offers Novak three-dot sights, a Novak 8-round magazine, and 25-lpi checkering and other features. Although relatively new to the 1911 world, DoubleStar will offer a 100-year commemorative variant.
ED BROWN
People who have made great contributions to the honorable use of handguns for sport, personal defense and law-enforcement purposes deserve to be recognized for what they do. In January 2010, Ed Brown Products announced that they would honor Massad Ayoob with a special Massad Ayoob Signature Edition 1911. The limited edition pistol will be a 4.25-inch Commander-size pistol with bobtail frame and double-diamond grips. Made of stainless steel, the commemorative pistol weighs about 35 ounces. The sights are three-dot night sights. Ayoob specified that the trigger have a 4.5-pound pull and that the pistol be able to group jacketed-hollow-point ammunition into two inches or less at 25 yards. What makes the pistol special as a commemorative is a facsimile of Ayoob’s signature on the right side of the slide. A copy of Ayoob’s book, The Gun Digest Book of Concealed Carry, is included with each pistol.
Thinking ahead, Ed Brown announced that the company will put out a 100-year commemorative to acknowledge the unique record of the Colt/Browning1911 design during the past century.
EMF
Last year, EMF got back to its “Early and Modern Firearms” beginnings. They added, to their western-style guns, a line of 1911 pistols and a new polymer-frame 9mm pistol.
Now, the polymer-frame pistol, the FMK, is in full production. The 1911 line, made in Tennessee, has several variants, including the original 1911 A1, an enhanced Combat model, and a new Nightstalker 1911, in black with a rail. Slides are now marked “Hartford Model 1911.”
This year, EMF has also added a line of pistol-caliber carbines. The new JR Carbine is a straight blowback, offered in 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP. It looks a little bit like an AR-15, but is much simpler. However, it will accept many AR aftermarket items, and is loaded with rails that allow all sorts of additions. The construction is interesting, in that calibers can be changed with only a magazine well, bolt and barrel change. The carbine can be ordered with either right- or left-handed controls, and the bolt handle and ejection of empty cases can be on either side. The carbines are initially furnished with appropriate Glock magazines, but the magazine well is modular and can be adapted to other magazines. Looks as if a lot of thought has gone into this design.
FNH USA
A number of new pistols were introduced by FNH USA this year. Let’s start with the largest first.
The FNP-45 Tactical pistol is a .45 ACP polymer-frame conventional double action arm that pretty obviously had its origin in FN’s design program for military testing. The pistol is described as “completely ambidextrous,” with decocker/safety, slide stop and magazine release operable from either side. The 5.3-inch barrel extends forward of the slide and is threaded. The fl at dark earth frame has an accessory rail moulded into its forward portion. Interchangeable backstraps are furnished. The slide has high night sights front and rear. The top of the slide is cut and threaded for an electronic sight, and a plate is furnished to cover the mounting holes. The FNP-45 Tactical pistol comes with three 15-round magazines in a fitted Cordura nylon case.
The new FNX-40 and FNX-9 pistols are polymer-frame guns that have four interchangeable backstraps. Each FNX has a 4-inch barrel. The 40-caliber version weighs 24 ounces and uses a 15-round magazine. The 9mm weighs 22 ounces and uses a 17-round magazine. Each pistol comes with three magazines and a lockable hard case.
The Five-seveN pistol, chambered for the 5.7x28 cartridge, is now available with low-profile fixed combat sights, as well as the adjustable sights previously offered. The Five-seveN pistols are available in black, dark earth and olive drab. Magazines of 10- and 20-round capacity are available, and three magazines come with each pistol.
GIRSAN
Girsan, a Turkish manufacturer, has made 9mm pistols based on the open-slide Beretta 92 design. At the 2010 SHOT Show, Girsan displayed several new models of closed-slide 9mm pistols with front frame rails, including their MC 27 and MC 27E (a ported variant). The MC 21 is a .45 ACP pistol made with a similar confi guration.
Of great interest to us here is a new line, the Girsan MC 1911. As you might have guessed, it is a full-size .45 ACP based on the Colt/Browning 1911 design. Prototypes displayed at the SHOT Show were of the general WWII 1911A1 configuration. Interestingly, at least one early prototype had a true 1911 frame, with no frame recesses behind the trigger. The MC 1911 S is the standard “Government Model” style, but with a forward frame rail.
I was told that an American firm would import the Girsan 1911s but could not get any definite details.
GLOCK
Glock has introduced the Generation 4 (generally referenced as Gen4) series of Glock pistols. The new features include three interchangeable grip backstrap options, a non-slip texture on the grip frame, a reversible magazine release, and a new dual recoil-spring system.
Each larger backstrap adds 2 millimeters to the linear distance between the trigger and the rear of the backstrap. The more-aggressive grip frame texture is a series of polymer pyramids (Glock calls them “polymids”); Models 17, 19, 22 and 23 are now available with this surface. Glock calls this the RTF, or “Rough Textured Frame.” The reversible magazine catch is somewhat larger than former ones, and Glock apparently will provide information for shooters who want to make the change to left-hand operation. The new dual recoil springs are considered an “assembly.” The first Gen4 pistol is the 40-caliber Model 22. The model number on the slide reads, “22Gen4.” Other versions will obviously become available.
GSG
German Sporting Guns (GSG) has introduced a new 22-caliber 1911 pistol. The lower portion is completely 1911, with a fixed barrel and blowback operation of the slide up above. The GSG – 1911 will be handled by American Tactical Imports. (See ATI.)
GUNCRAFTER
Guncrafter Industries makes 1911-type pistols in their own proprietary .50 GI cartridge. This year, they offer a new Model 3, a Commander-style pistol with a 4.25-inch barrel and a “bobtail” frame treatment. Guncrafter offers a new load for the .50 GI with solid copper hollow-point bullets that open up into four “wings.”
This year, Guncrafter offers — of all things — a standard .45 ACP 1911. The 1911 .45 went into the catalog before a name was chosen for it. It is known, for the time being, as the “no-name” pistol.
A conversion kit to convert the Glock Models 20 or 21 to .50 GI is offered. Such items are available through American Tactical Imports. (See ATI.)
HK
Heckler & Koch has offered their P30 pistol in 9mm chambering, and by January 2010, had also offered the basic pistol in .40 S&W. The 40-caliber version has a 13-round magazine and has a 3.85- inch barrel. The longer 4.45-inch barrel available as an option for the 9mm is not offered for the 40-caliber P30.
HK feels that the P30 pistol holds up pretty well. On display at the 2010 SHOT Show was a 9mm P30 that had shot 75,000 rounds. Yes, there were nine stoppages, but the HK people are working to correct that.
One of the new FNH polymer-frame guns with interchangeable backstraps, the 9mm FNX-9, here is shown with a black slide and a flat grip backstrap.
Guncrafters Industries offers a kit to convert a Glock Model 20 or 21 to use the big-bore 50 GI cartridge.
A new 22-caliber 1911. The new .22 has been introduced by German Sporting Guns.
The High Standard Olympic Trophy, often called the “Space Gun,” is back in production. Here, the reintroduced pistol is demonstrated by Bob Shea, who started working for High Standard in 1942. Shea knows these guns well.
HIGH STANDARD
The “Space Gun” is back! One of the most recognizable 22-caliber target pistols of all time, the long-barrel High Standard Olympic Trophy is back in production. Its long barrel, muzzle brake, and extra weight under the barrel gave it a distinctive appearance, and it was generally referred to as the “Space Gun.” The rear sight was mounted on the barrel, not on the slide, to prevent misalignment. The Olympic Trophy was a winner on the firing line in decades past.
Now, it is back again, in an updated version. The frame is now stainless steel, with a black Tefl on coating. Barrel lengths offered are 6.75, 8 and 10 inches. Optional weights are 2-ounce or 3-ounce. I was fortunate to have the new Olympic Trophy demonstrated to me by Bob Shea, who started working with High Standard way back in 1942, and who still serves as an advisor to the present organization.
Not enough nostalgia yet? High Standard plans were to reintroduce the affordable Dura-Matic 22-caliber plinking pistol of years past. The new Dura-Matic was scheduled for May 2010 introduction at the National Rifle Association (NRA) convention.
HI-POINT
Hi-Point continues to offer its line of affordable pistols and pistol-caliber carbines. Nothing new is being offered in the pistol line this year, but the carbines are wearing new stocks. Regular readers of this publication may recall that I sneaked a picture of prototype number 1 of the new stock design into this report last year. Now, they are standard. The new stocks have rails on the top of the receiver cover, rails under the forearm, and rails on the sides of the forearm. There is plenty of space to hang just about anything a shooter wants on the Hi-Point carbine now. A recoil-reducing butt pad is attached. Available in 9mm and .40 S&W, the carbines come with sling, swivels, scope base, adjustable aperture rear sight and trigger lock. Hi-Point firearms are backed by the company’s no-questions-asked lifetime warranty. They are distributed by MKS Supply.
A new small 380-caliber pistol, the I.O. Hellcat, has been introduced by I.O., Inc. Here is a peek at prototype X2.
Interstate Arms Corporation’s new Regent 45 is a “Series ‘70” pistol, made for IAC by Tisas in Turkey.
The new manual-safety version of the Kahr PM9 also has a loaded chamber indicator.
To commemorate the 100 years of the 1911 design, Kimber, a leading producer of 1911-type pistols, is offering a limited-edition commemorative pistol.
The new Kriss pistol. Well, all right, this is really the Kriss submachinegun with the stock removed. However, this is how the Kriss pistol will look, but it will be semiautomatic only.
Legacy Sports International has expanded its Citadel 1911 line. The new .38 Super version is offered now, with several finish options.
Les Baer’s new offering is the Boss 45, an enhanced two-tone pistol.
INTERSTATE ARMS
A new 1911! Interstate Arms Corp. (IAC) is offering the new Regent 1911 A1 “Series ‘70” pistol. The new pistol is manufactured for IAC by the Tisas firm in Turkey. The new pistol looks good, and production models are said to have a consistent 5.5-pound trigger pull. (See TISAS.)
ISSC
The 22-caliber Austrian ISSC pistol, first mentioned on these pages in the last edition of this publication, is now in production. Looking much like a hammer-fired Glock, the ISSC can be used as a training understudy for those using Glock pistols, as well as other uses. The new 22s now have an accessory rail. “ISSC – USA” will be the new markings on the pistols.
ITHACA
Ithaca Gun Company produced Model 1911A1 45-caliber pistols during World War II. Ithaca was the third-largest producer of 45s during that conflict, making close to 20% of the total pistols made. A total of about 369,000 were manufactured by Ithaca back then.
Now, Ithaca is back in the 1911 pistol business. For the 100th anniversary of the 1911 design, Ithaca is making a commemorative pistol, as close to WWII specifi cations as possible. The only changes in the slide markings are that Ithaca has changed its business location, and “Upper Sandusky, OH” appears in place of the original “Ithaca, NY.” Ray Rozic, who worked on the development of the new Ithaca .45, explained that CNC machining allowed much closer clearances now. Made of 4140 certified steel, a prototype with .002-inch slide/frame clearance fired 1000 rounds in about an hour without problems.
The only other WWII manufacturer still making 1911 pistols is, of course, Colt. It is good to have Ithaca back.
IVER JOHNSON
It seemed as if the Iver Johnson 1911 pistols would be stuck in limbo, but they are now a production reality, in time for the 100th anniversary of the 1911 design. Both .45 ACP and 22-caliber pistols were scheduled for full production by mid-2010. A number of different variants, from basic GI style to deluxe enhanced guns, full-size and commander-size, are offered.
Iver Johnson also offers conversion kits to make any 45-caliber 1911 into a .22.
IO, INC.
IO, Inc., of Monroe, North Carolina, provider of many surplus items and US-made AK-style rifles, has introduced a new small US-made .380 pistol. A company representative noted that IO had seen the popularity of small 380-caliber pistols and had combined the best features of existing offerings and made improvements to make a new pistol. The Hellcat .380 is a polymer-frame double-action-only pistol with a 2.7-inch barrel. Weight is only 6.6 ounces. Size is 5.5 inches long by 3.6 inches high — it will almost, but not quite, hide under a common 3x5 index card. I did not get a chance to shoot one, but tried the trigger, and it was decent in double-action. Capacity is 6+1. Each pistol will come with two six-round magazines and an inside-the-pants holster.
KAHR
Kahr Arms has a new version of their PM9. Recall that the PM9 is a subcompact 9mm with black polymer frame and matte stainless slide. It has a 3-inch barrel, measures 5.3x4inches, and can use either six- or seven-round magazines. Weight is about 16 ounces.
The new variant has an external manual thumb safety, and also a loaded chamber indicator, one that rises above the top level of the slide. These new features allow sale of the PM9 in states (such as Massachusetts) where the standard model is prohibited. However, the standard model PM9 will remain in the company’s product line.
Another new addition to the PM9 lineup is a variant that comes with a Crimson Trace laser sight.
The little P380, introduced here last year, has a new variant. The original small .380 had a black polymer frame and stainless slide. The new “black” variant has the stainless slide coated in black to produce a less-noticeable pistol for discrete carry.
KBI
A noted above, KBI is no longer in business, as of early 2010. (See Charles Daly.)
KEL-TEC
Kel-Tec’s big news is their new PMR-30, a light 30-shot pistol chambered for the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) cartridge. It is a full-size pistol, measuring almost 6x8 inches, but is light, only 13.6 ounces unloaded (going only to 19.5 ounces fully loaded with 30 rounds). Barrel length is 4.3 inches, and Kel-Tec records a velocity of 1230 fps with a standard 40-grain .22 WMR load.
Kel-Tec harnesses the relatively high-pressure .22 WMR cartridge by what they call a “hybrid blowback/locked breech system.” Apparently, a problem using the .22 Magnum in a blowback system is that the case begins to move out of the chamber while still under substantial pressure. Kel-Tec uses a fluted rearward-moving barrel that stays in contact with the breechblock during the time of highest pressure. This appears to be similar to the system used by the FN Five-seveN pistol, and the origin of the mechanism dates back to the French MAB Model R pistol of the 1950s.
The PMR-30 has slide and barrel made of 4140 steel, and the basic frame is 7075 aluminum. Other parts, including the magazine, are glass-reinforced nylon (Zytel). The magazine has an internal rib that separates the rims of the cartridges, avoiding rim-over-rim problems and aiding smooth feeding. The magazine has view holes, so that the shooter can tell how many rounds are loaded. The pistol has fi ber-optic sights,\ and a surprisingly good trigger. Introduced at the January 2010 SHOT Show, the PMR-30 was expected to be available by mid-2010.
KIMBER
Kimber has built a good part of its reputation on its 1911 pistols, and you can bet that the firm is going to recognize the 100th anniversary of the 1911. The Centennial Edition comes from Kimber’s Custom Shop. In .45 ACP (of course), the Centennial has a special casehardened finish by Turnbull Restoration. Engraved slides, true elephant ivory grips and other features make the Centennial special. Only 250 of the cased guns will be offered.
Also from the Custom Shop, a new line of carry pistols has been introduced. The fi st thing that caught my eye about the Super Carry series was the rounded butt treatment – not really a “bobtail,” but reminiscent of the smooth curve of the old Colt pocket pistols of 1903. The Super Carry Custom is a full-size 5-incher, the Pro has a 4-inch bushing-less barrel, and the Ultra goes down to 3 inches, with a shorter grip frame. With aluminum frames, weights are 31, 28 and 25 ounces, respectively.
Kimber deserves praise for its support of the shooting sports. Setting aside a portion of sales of certain guns, the company has donated to the U.S. Shooting Team, to the time of this writing, a total of $675,000. Thank you, Kimber.
KRISS
Kriss fi rearms are offered by Tranformational Defense Industries (TDI). Introduced here in this publication two years ago, the Kriss semiautomatic .45 ACP 16-inch carbine (an outgrowth of the earlier Kriss .45-caliber submachinegun) was joined last year by a 45-caliber "short-barrel rifl e" and a 40-caliber carbine.
Now, in early 2010, the Kriss semiautomatic pistol has joined the family. The new pistol has a 5.5-inch barrel, and is, in essence, the short-barrel rifl e without any provision for a stock. It is BATF-approved, but cannot be made available in some states or municipalities, perhaps because it has an unusual appearance.
LEGACY
In 2009, Legacy Sports International introduced its Citadel line of 45-caliber 1911 pistols, in full-size 5-inch and Concealed Carry 3.5-inch variants. The line expanded in 2010. The Citadel line now offers both versions with one-piece wraparound Hogue grips of various colors. In addition, finishes may now be matte black, brushed nickel or polished nickel. Brand new is the Citadel .38 Super, a full-size 5-incher. It can be had with black, brushed nickel or polished nickel finishes, all with double-diamond wood grips.
Joining the centerfire 1911 pistols is the new Puma 1911-22. Roughly the same size, and with similar operating characteristics, the Puma 22 Long Rifle pistol has a 5-inch barrel, a 10-round magazine and weighs 32 ounces. Made by Chiappa Firearms, it is mechanically the same pistol as the Chiappa 1911-22 marketed by MKS Supply. (See Chiappa.)
The polymer-frame 9mm BUL pistols introduced last year by Legacy have quietly slipped out of the catalog for 2010.
LES BAER
A .45 autoloader named after a car? Les Baer Custom admits that owner Les Baer is an aficionado of powerful automobiles as well as powerful handguns. The new “Boss 45” introduced this year harks back to the Ford Mustang Boss 429 of yesteryear.
The pistol has a chromed frame and blued slide, with grasping serrations only at the rear. An adjustable rear sight and red fi ber-optic front sight allow accurate sighting. The Boss 45 is guaranteed to shoot 3-inch groups at 50 yards.
MAGNUM RESEARCH
Magnum Research now has a 1911! The Minnesota company will offer a full-size 5-inch and Commander-size 4.3-inch “Desert Eagle” 1911 pistols. A prototype Government-size pistol at the 2010 SHOT Show was marked “Desert Eagle 1911 G. / Magnum Research, Minn, MN.” The Commander-size pistols will carry 1911 C. markings. The pistols will be enhanced models, with beavertail tang, ventilated hammer and trigger, lowered ejection port, and special sights. The new 1911s are reported to be manufactured by BUL in Israel.
The “Baby Desert Eagle” name has been applied to new additions to the Magnum Research line, polymer-frame ”fast action” pistols. The new guns will be offered in 9mm and .40 S&W. Capacity of the 9mm is 15+1, the .40 is 12+1.
The little 380-caliber Micro Desert Eagle, introduced last year, now is offered in three finishes. The 14-ounce pistols will be available as blued, nickel or two-tone blue/nickel.
MASTERPIECE ARMS
Masterpiece Arms, of Braselton, Georgia, makes a line of “MAC-10” pistols and carbines in 9mm and .45 ACP. Both traditional top-cocking, and (new for 2010) side-cocking variants are offered. Pistols may have 3-, 6-, or 10-inch barrels, and the carbines carry 16-inch barrels. In addition to the new side-cocking option, two new calibers have now been introduced, going both lower and higher in power levels.
For those who like low recoil and low cost, the MPA 22T is offered in .22 Long Rifle. The new .22 is built on the 9mm frame and comes with a long 27-round magazine. With its unconventional looks, it may be the dream plinking pistol for some people.
For those who want more power than the .45 ACP offers, MPA now can offer pistols and carbines in .460 Rowland caliber. Both pistols and carbines come with muzzle brakes and have 30-round magazines.
PARA
The Para GI Expert (Product Code GI45) introduced last year as a lower-price “basic” 1911 with some updated features many shooters want, now has two additional variants. The same gun is now offered in a stainless-steel version (GI45S) with the same features. The additional new variant has the same finish as the original GI Expert, but is enhanced with a beavertail tang with a bump on the grip safety portion, an adjustable trigger, and fi ber-optic front sight. This new gun gets the Product Code GI45ESP. Each GI Expert comes with two 8-round magazines.
RUGER
Ruger’s first striker-fired centerfire pistol, the 9mm SR9, now has a compact variant. The new SR9c has shortened the barrel from the SR9’s 4.14 inches to 3.5 inches. The grip frame has been shortened to accommodate a 10-round magazine, instead of the original 17-rounder. The SR9c has pared the weight of the original down from 26.5 ounces to 23.4 ounces.
Although the SR9c has a 10-shot magazine, there are options. The magazine comes with two interchangeable bases: one flush and one with a finger grip extension. Actually, the 17-round magazine can also be used with the compact pistol, and Ruger offers a grip extension adapter to fill in the extra space. The compact pistols ship with one 10-round and one 17-round magazine, the two bases and the extension for the longer magazine.
Many features of the larger SR9, such as three-dot sights and reversible backstrap, are also included with the compact version.
SIG-SAUER
A number of new things from SIG-Sauer this year. Let’s start with the updates from items introduced last year.
The new 380-caliber P238, a pretty little thing in its original form, now can be had in seven different versions. All are mechanically the same, and all have black anodized frames. The differences are in different materials and colors of grips, and different color finishes on the slides and small parts. They make an attractive group.
The long-range P556 pistol introduced last year now has a 22-caliber understudy. The new P522 is roughly the same general size as the 223-caliber P556, but is chambered for the .22 Long Rifle cartridge. With a 10-inch barrel, the overall length is a bit over 20 inches, and weight is about 5.5 pounds. The P522 pistol comes with a 25-round magazine. A 10-round magazine is also available.
The modular P250 is an interesting design. A single frame containing the entire trigger and firing mechanism can be used with polymer grip frames of various sizes, and barrels and magazines for different calibers can be used. So, the owner of a P250 can have several different guns by switching parts. How to do this? Well, SIG has made it easier with its P250 2SUM kit. The kit contains a full-size P250, and also everything needed to convert it to a P250 subcompact. A lot better than having a pistol and ordering a bunch of extra parts to convert it.
New E2 (Enhanced Ergonomics) variants of the P226 and P229 are available. The new one-piece grip frame reduces the area of the backstrap, and reduces overall circumference. The modular grip snaps into place, eliminating screws. The E2 models also have a reduced-reach trigger and feature SIG’s Short Reset Trigger (SRT) system. The company believes these characteristics will allow these 9mm pistols to better fit a wider range of shooters’ hands.
SMITH & WESSON
S&W has had good success recycling old revolver names onto their new items. Following the reuse of Chief’s Special and Military & Police, now we have totally new guns that bear the Bodyguard name. The company developed two small new handguns that would wear the Bodyguard designation — a laser-sighted .38 revolver and a laser-sighted .380 pistol. Both guns were designed from the start to have integral lasers. The revolver is interesting, but you’ll read about it elsewhere. Let’s take a look at the 380.
The little pistol is double-action-only, but has second-strike capability. It also has a manual safety. It is tilting-barrel recoil-operated and is not a blowback. The gun has a stainless-steel slide and barrel (coated with Melonite) and a polymer frame. The 6+1 pistol is hammer-fired, and weighs less than 12 ounces. The integral laser sighting system is part of the frame, and has ambidextrous controls. The laser has three positions—constant, pulse, and off. The new bodyguard pistols were introduced on January 19, 2010, and scheduled for May 1 production.
Incidentally, the original Bodyguard revolver will remain in production with a unique model number, a separate series from the new Bodyguard guns.
Smith & Wesson also has introduced a new “Pro-Series” line of pistols. According to a company representative, these guns will bridge the gap between standard production and Performance Center guns. Included are three M&P polymer-frame pistols and two SW1911 pistols. The M&P guns are in 9mm and .40, with enhancements in sights and trigger pulls. The 1911 guns include a 5-inch full-size variant in 9mm, and a 3-inch subcompact .45, with special sights and other features.
SPRINGFIELD
The Springfield XD(M) line, introduced on these pages in the last edition, now has two new additions. The XD(M)–3.8 is a new shorter-barrel variant in 9mm, with 19+1 capacity and .40 S&W, with 16+1 capacity. The 3.8 designation refers to the 3.8-inch length of the barrel. The XD(M)–4.5 features the new slip-resistant slide serrations. By the beginning of 2011, a new .45 ACP version of the XD(M) is planned to also be included in the Springfield line.
Every XD(M) comes with a case that contains the pistol, two magazines, a lock, paddle holster, magazine loader, double magazine pouch, and three interchangeable backstraps.
STI
STI International has an anniversary of its own. The Texas company is celebrating its 20th year and has produced an eyecatching 20th Anniversary pistol to commemorate the occasion. The special commemorative pistol is marked on the slide “20th Anniversary, 1990-2010.” The grasping grooves on the slide include a distinct XX, the Roman numerals for 20.
The company has introduced its patented 2011 frame, a metal/polymer composite. STI claims the new frame is appropriate for the 100th anniversary of the 1911 design, taking it into a new century. The metal frame/polymer grip system allows lighter weight and a grip thickness hardly larger than the original. A number of STI guns are now using this frame.
The lightest pistol in STI’s lineup is the Escort. At 22.8 ounces, the 3-inch .45 has a Commander-size frame.
STI pistols tend to be eyecatchers. One of the most striking pistols the firm offers is the Elektra. In several variants, the one most likely to attract attention is the Electra Pink version. With its pink grips and pink filling of the slide lettering, it seems appropriate for either a man or woman shooter.
Magnum Research has entered the 1911 world. Here is the Desert Eagle 1911 G., a full-size .45.
Masterpiece Arms has introduced a new 22-calber version of its “MAC-10” style pistols. The 22 pistol comes with a 27-round magazine.
A compact version of the company’s 9mm SR9 pistol, Ruger’s new SR9c has a 3.5- inch barrel and shortened grip.
SIG SAUER’s P522 is a 22-caliber unconventional pistol with a 10-inch barrel and a 25-round magazine.
The 380-caliber SIG SAUER P238 is now available in seven different finishes. This striking specimen has the “rainbow” metal finish.
STI has passed its 20-year anniversary, and has put out a special pistol to commemorate the event. Notice the Roman numeral XX, used to represent 20, in the slide grasping grooves.
STOEGER
The Stoeger Cougar pistol is now available in .45 ACP chambering. The new Cougar 45 is only slightly larger than the 9mm and 40-caliber versions previously offered. Designated Model 8045, the .45 has a 3.6-inch barrel.
Recall that the Cougar design was originally introduced by Beretta, a mid-sized pistol with a rotating-barrel locking system. A few years ago, Stoeger took the design over. Now, it is made in Turkey and imported by Stoeger.
The Bodyguard .380 from Smith &Wesson has its controls on the left, but its double-action-only mechanism is suitable for use with either hand.
The .45 that I examined had an all-black finish. However, the 9mm and .40 pistols in the Cougar line are now offered in several other finishes. They can be had as all silver with black grips, or with a silver frame and black slide and grips.
TACTICAL INNOVATIONS
Shown for the first time at the 2010 SHOT Show, the COHORT pistol is offered by Tactical Innovations. The new 22-caliber pistols are based on a modi-fi ed Ruger 10/22 platform. Made in Idaho, the new pistols have aluminum receivers and a Ruger-style bolt. However, one can see a big difference right away—the action is rear-charging, with a bolt retraction system patterned after that of the AR-15. A rail allows any sighting system desired by the shooter.
Barrels are stainless steel, with various lengths and confi gurations. Threaded muzzles (with caps) are standard. A 25-round Tactical magazine is furnished with the Cohort pistol, and an AK-style magazine release is used. The laminated stocks come in a variety of colors. Matched with different colors of triggers and trigger housings, the Cohort can become a very colorful, and very individualized, gun.
TAURUS
Taurus’ new offerings were dominated by an amazing lineup of “Judge” .45/.410 revolvers, but you’ll have to read about them elsewhere. Although overshadowed by the big revolvers, interesting semiauto pistols have been introduced by Taurus.
Carrying through on the renewed interest in small 380-caliber pistols that began last year, the Taurus 738 TCP is now a production item. The small 6+1 pistol weighs about 10 ounces (9 ounces in the Titanium version).
The 24/7 G2 series of polymer-frame pistols is the culmination of Taurus experience with the 24/7 series and the 800 series lines. The new 24/7 G2 offers a choice of single-action, conventional double-action, or double-action-only triggers. The double-actions offer “strike two” capability. Slide stops, decockers and manual safeties are ambidextrous. Calibers are now 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. Along with the traditional 4.2-inch barrel, there are now a compact version with a 3.5-inch barrel and a long slide variant with a 5-inch barrel.
The 800 series now has a compact of its own. The larger 4-inch 800 pistols have been scaled down to a compact size appropriate for a 3.5-inch barrel. The 809 compact is available in 9mm, .357 SIG, and .40 S&W.
The 700 “Slim” pistol series, introduced in the 9mm chambering, has gone both up and down. The slim single-column pistols are now available in both .380 and .40 S&W versions. Taurus has had a hard time coming up with a satisfactory 22-caliber pistol for target, plinking and recreational shooting. Several worthy prototypes have been introduced over the years, but none made it to full production status. Now, the company thinks a new .22 on the 800 frame will do the trick. The Model 822 will be available with either 4.5- or 6-inch barrels. The hammer-fired guns will be conventional double action, and will have “strike two” capability. 822 pistols will have adjustable sights. A conversion kit, allowing any 800-series pistol to shoot .22 Long Rifle ammunition, will also be offered.
TISAS
The Turkish firm Tisas introduced a 45-caliber 1911-style pistol on these pages a few years ago. Now, the new 1911 is offered in the United States by Interstate Arms as the Regent pistol. (See Interstate Arms.)
USELTON
Uselton Arms, a maker of 1911-style pistols since 1999, planned for a special gun to commemorate the 100th year anniversary of the 1911 design. The result is a striking-looking handgun. The frame is case colored, and the slide is polished mirror bright. Engraved on the right side of the slide (and effectively using roman numerals) is this legend in a three-line display: MODEL 1911 / MCMXI-MMXI / COMMEMORATING 100 YEARS. The Uselton 100 Year Commemorative will be available in full-size Government Model, and also in compact Offi cers Model versions.
Tactical Innovations has just introduced the Cohort pistol, based on the Ruger 10/22 design, but with rear-charging operation.
Volquartsen’s new machined aluminum V-10X pistol is in production, in several different colors, including black.
VLTOR
The pistol based on the Bren Ten design, and offered for the first time last year as the Vltor Fortis, is now available under the original Bren Ten name. (See Bren Ten.)
VOLQUARTSEN
Volquartsen Custom makes an amazing number of interesting 22-caliber pistols, most based on the original Ruger design. Last year, Volquartsen introduced a prototype of a new design of .22 target pistol, which they named the V-10X. The frame was CNC-machined from aluminum billet material, and the barrel was a taper fit into the aluminum frame. Finger grooves were machined into the frame, and followed the contour of the grips. The laminated wood grips themselves were available with either right or left thumb rest.
Now, a year later, the company also offers new variations with built-in muzzle brakes, and with rails mounted top and bottom for attaching various types of sights and accessories. Traditional open sights are, however, furnished with each pistol. Trigger is set at about 2 pounds and has pretravel and overtravel adjustments. Want a special color? The V-10X is available hard-anodized in black, silver, red, green, blue and purple.
WALTHER
The Walther PK380, introduced on these pages last year, is now a production item, and already has several new variants. The PK380, at 5.2x6.5 inches, is larger than the current offerings of small 380s, but is roughly the same size as Walther’s P22, the firm’s small 22-caliber pistol. The PK380 has a 3.7-inch barrel and weighs about 21 ounces.
Along with basic black, other variants now available are: a First Edition (serial numbers 1 through 2000 are reserved) which comes with an extra magazine and a nylon holster, a nickel slide version, and a black gun with an attached laser. All variants of the Walther PK380 use an eight-round single-column magazine.
WILSON
The Wilson Sentinel, a small steel-frame 9mm with a 3.6-inch barrel, was introduced last year in this publication. It quickly achieved a certain popularity, and its suitability as a lady’s carry pistol was examined. The result was a new variant named appropriately, if somewhat tongue-in-cheek, Ms. Sentinel.
The Ms. Sentinel pistol was specifi cal-ly designed to be carried equally well in a purse or in a holster. The confi guration of some of the controls is subdued to avoid snagging. A round butt frame was used. A shortened trigger, better suited to smaller hands, was installed. To reduce weight, an aluminum frame and a fluted 3.5-inch barrel were used. The result, Wilson feels, is a 9mm pistol that will be a very good choice for a woman’s protection pistol.
