February 2017

The Worlds Oldest And Largest Firearm Authority

CHARLES
SCHUMER, D-NY
REPLACES
HARRY REID, D-NV
AS SENATE
MINORITY LEADER
Page 46

THE SMEAR MERCHANTS WILL STOP AT NOTHING

TO END GUN RIGHTS. NOTHING WILL STOP THEM
BUT THIS CARD. GO TO WWW.NRA-2017.ORG

Official Journal of the National Rifle Association

AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG
 The NRA, the foremost guardian of
the traditional American right to
keep and bear arms, believes every
law-abiding citizen is entitled to the
OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE NATIONAL RIFLE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
ownership and legal use of firearms,

Contents
131st Year of Publication
and that every reputable gun owner
should be an NRA Member.

FEBRUARY 2017
VOLUME 165, NO. 2

The Gray Wall by Don Troiani (1985)

Private Collection/Bridgeman Images
NRA
EXPERTS
IN THE
FIELD

features Defiant Anti-Gunners Use The Same Old Playbook

In Wake Of Trump Victory.. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 18
Chris W. Cox Out-of-touch gun control advocates are doggedly clinging to their old playbook and
their old agenda, despite the electorates repudiation of their tactics and ideas.
1000 Man Shoot Hits Its Mark .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 44
NRA Staff Henry Repeating Arms and NRA paired up to have 1,000 people fire simultaneously in
a celebration of firearms freedom.
Fight The Smear Merchants With This Card .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 46
Wayne LaPierre You helped win the victory in this years presidential election, now show your pride by
carrying your NRA membership cardyour ticket to defeat the anti-gunners.
Aiming For The Future: Kel-Tecs RFB & RDB .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 50
Jeff Johnston With the RFB and RDB, Kel-Tec has developed two handy, affordable and completely
bilateral carbines all its own.
Chinese Tokarev Pistols: Military And Commercial Models.. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 60
Cameron S. White Although China did not design the Tokarev, it manufactured the gun during a long
span of time and created many military and commercial versions.
Burris Scopes: Getting The Job Done .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 64
John Barsness From affordable, traditional scopes to the ultra-modern Eliminator, Burris optics just
seem to get the job done.
Sharpshooter: Berry Benson & His Enfield .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 72
Joseph G. Bilby After Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered at Appomattox, sharpshooter Berry Benson
walked home to South Carolinaand took his rifle with him.
Exploded View: SKS Carbine .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 76
Ian McCollum The handy SKS carbine has been imported in the millions. Heres how to take it down.

26 50
Photo by Forrest MacCormack

Photo by Forrest MacCormack

Photo by Forrest MacCormack

Photo by Cameron S. White

60 64
MEMBER PROGRAMS: (800) 672-3888
 AM E RICA RE M E MB E RS P RE S E NT S

Honoring Legendary Warriors of the Old West

Today, there is an image that takes us back to the days of freedom on the frontier, and that image features Native American warriors on horseback.
We have painters and photographers from the 19th century to thank for this indelible image. As artists and storytellers, they were fascinated by the figure of
warriors in action, astride their horses at full speed or majestically scanning the horizon. To them, the warriors of the Western frontier
represented freedom, dignity, and the untamed frontier of the American West. They were the lords of the American frontier. QThe receiver
is polished and
In honor of the legendary Warriors of the Old West, America Remembers presents The Warriors of the Old West Tribute Rifle. The Tribute features decorated in 24-karat
artwork by Mort Knstler, an acclaimed Western artist. For many years, Mort studied and created artwork capturing daily life of Native American tribes. gold and nickel, and the
For this Tribute, America Remembers worked closely with Mort to select six of his favorite paintings featuring Native American warriors of the Old illustrations are featured in
West era. The Tribute pays homage to the bravery and sacrifice of the proud warriors who fought for their land and their way of life. gold with a blackened patinaed
For the Tribute, we selected a legendary Old West classic; the Model 1866 Rifle originally produced by Winchester Repeating Arms background to highlight the detail.
Company. It was a favorite on the Western frontier. This Tribute is a detailed recreation of the Model 1866 Rifle, each produced by the In addition, the hammer, lever,
incomparable artisans of Uberti, whose master craftsmen have painstakingly reproduced the greatest firearms of history for more than forearm cap, and buttplate are also
five decades. Each rifle is a working firearm in caliber .44-40 with a blued, 24 1/4 inch half-octagonal barrel with a tubular magazine. polished and decorated in stunning
24-karat gold. The official signature of Mort
Craftsmen commissioned specifically for this Tribute by America Remembers capture Mr. Knstlers original artwork in Knstler is laser-carved into the buttstock.
minute detail, with the 24-karat gold and nickel decorated background serving as the canvas for the artwork, which is
highlighted with a special blackened patina for maximum detail. You will find Knstlers own stylish signature laser- QThe Tribute features artwork from six of Mort
carved into the stock, adding additional authenticity to the Tribute. As you review the artwork, youll see the artwork is Knstlers favorite paintings of Warriors of the Old
surrounded with symbolic Native American beadwork and geometric designs. West. Each image is framed by decorative patterns that
recall some of the symbolic beadwork and geometric design
Only 500 Available used by tribes across North America.
Only 500 of the Warriors of the Old West Tribute Rifles will ever be produced. To be assured of acquiring QThe right side features a trio of scenes. The center image features
the Tribute before the edition is fully subscribed, please mail your reservation promptly. Reservations will a scene from Storm Clouds. Three warriors on horseback gaze across
be accepted in the order they are received. We will arrange delivery through the licensed firearms dealer the plains from a rocky outcrop. The title refers both to the menacing sky
of your choice. If you are not completely satisfied, you may return your Tribute within 30 days in overhead and the brewing conflict between the tribes and settlers. War Cry
original, unfired condition for a courteous refund. You can mail in your order, or to prioritize your features warriors charging into battle at full gallop with weapons raised. The
order and confirm availability, call us toll-free at 1-800-682-2291. You may also order online at illustration conveys the speed and fearlessness of these Plains warriors. Many
www.americaremembers.com. Your Tribute will be individually numbered, and a matching of the warriors carry stone-tipped lances, war clubs, and the long, curved coup
numbered Certificate of Authenticity will accompany your Tribute. Survivor, and shows a warrior
stick weapons used in battle. The third image features Survivor,
on horseback leading another horse across a shallow creek. One can imagine this lone
This Tribute will take you back to an era when proud warriors on horseback survivor returning to his tribe after battle with the mount of a fallen warrior.
were masters of the endless plains. Its a time and place that lives on today in
the paintings of Mort Knstler and in the hearts and minds of all Americans.
This stunning Tribute captures an era when proud warriors on horseback
were masters of the Western frontier, pursuing roaming herds of buffalo,
and protecting their families and territories from any danger that
might approach.
The Tribute captures Americas legendary Old West era,
and magnificently honors the strength and spirit of the proud
warriors who rode like lightning on the wild frontier.

QThe left side of the receiver also showcases three of Mort Knstler masterpieces. On the left is a war party from Painted Horse
Horse.
The horse at the center was known as a pinto or paint. At the center is a scene from The Chase, showing a hunter closing in
on a herd of buffalo, with his bow & arrow aimed at a prized target. Native Americans believed buffalo were a gift from the creator.
They depended on the animal for all necessities of life. For young braves, the hunt was a rite of passage, the ultimate test of skill
and courage. The final image on the left side is Brave Warrior. This scene depicts a warrior charging on horseback with his coup
stick raised high. In battle, among the bravest things a warrior could do in combat was touch or strike an enemy with his coup stick.

The Chase
Mort Knstler

The Tribute rifle is issued under license from Knstler Enterprises, Ltd. 2016 Mort Knstler, Inc.
MODEL: CALIBER .44-40 (.44 W.C.F) BARREL LENGTH: 24 INCHES
I wish to reserve ___ of the Warriors of the Old West Name ___________________________________________________
Tribute Rifle, at the introductory issue price of $2,495.*
My deposit of $195 per rifle is enclosed. I wish to pay the balance Address _________________________________________________
at the rate of $100 per month, no interest or carrying charges.
Certificate of Authenticity included. Thirty-day return privilege. City/State/Zip ____________________________________________
*All orders are subject to acceptance and credit verification prior to shipping.
Shipping and handling will be added to each order. Virginia residents please add sales tax.
Daytime Telephone No. ( ________ ) _________________________________
TCheck enclosed for $_____________ .
TCharge payment of $ _____________ to:
T VISA T MasterCard T AMEX T Discover
America Remembers
10226 Timber Ridge Drive Ashland, Virginia 23005
www.americaremembers.com
AHL, Inc. No. __________________________________________ Exp. ___________ To place your reservation toll-free call 1-800-682-2291

OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE NATIONAL RIFLE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
Wayne R. LaPierre, Executive Vice President
official journal
NRA PUBLICATIONS
Doug Hamlin
Executive Director
Chip Lohman
Deputy Executive Director
Marshall J. Flemion
Director, Integrated Marketing
Evelyn Q. Kessler
Fiscal Operations Manager
The Armed Citizen . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 10
Terri A. Wolfe
Executive Assistant
Rachel Carr
Special Reports Sales & Fiscal Assistant
Standing Guard .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 12 Karie Thomas
Firearms Inventory Manager
Presidents Column .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 14 EDITORIAL
Political Report .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 16 John R. Zent
Editorial Director
ILA Report .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 88 Mark A. Keefe, IV
Editor In Chief
Regional Report/Member Info & Benefits .. .. 90 Brian C. Sheetz
Senior Executive Editor
Programs & Services .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 92 Ann Y. Smith
Senior Executive Editor, Digital
Joseph L. Kurtenbach
Managing Editor

correspondence The Keefe Report .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. . 8

Kelly Young
Associate Editor
Christopher Olsen
Readers Write .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 24 Assistant Editor
Kristen Voss
Favorite Firearms. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 38 Assistant Editor, Digital
Maureen A. Denfeld
Editorial Assistant
Bruce N. Canfield, Aaron Carter,
reports News & Notes .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 26
Wiley Clapp, Rick Hacker,
B. Gil Horman, Jeff Johnston,
Jim Wilson
Products & Projects .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 32 Field Editors
ART
Harry Lloyd Jaecks
technical Questions & Answers . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 40
Creative Director
Susan K. Kilday
The Portsider Art Director
David J. Labrozzi
Loading Bench . .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 78 Associate Art Director
Loading The Versatile .308 Winchester Peter Fountain
Photography Director
Dope Bag .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 80 Forrest MacCormack
Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen 16-Ga. Shotgun Photographer
FIME Rex Zero 1S 9 mm Luger Pistol
Mech Tech CCU .45 ACP Rifle Conversion American Rifleman (ISSN 0003-083X) is
published monthly by the National Rifle
I Have This Old Gun .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 96 Association of America, 11250 Waples Mill
Road, Fairfax, VA 22030-9400, (703) 267-1000,
Walther PPK/S for the benefit of its members. Membership
dues (U.S. and possessions) $40 a year, $100
for 3 years, $140 for 5 years. $3.75 per year is
designated for a magazine subscription. For
foreign postage add $5 a year in Canada and
$10 elsewhere. For membership inquiries
only, call (877) 672-2000. Copyright 2017,
the National Rifle Association of America.
February 2017 All rights reserved except where expressly
THE COVER: More than anything else today, we need your waived. Periodicals Postage paid at Fairfax,
help to fight the smear merchants who want VA, and at additional mailing offices.
The Worlds Oldest And Largest Firearm Authority

to smear you; blame your Second Amendment- POSTMASTER: Please send address
changes to American Rifleman, c/o
protected rights for crime; and block every National Rifle Association, P.O. Box 420648,
pro-gun, pro-freedom reform of President CHARLES
SCHUMER, D-NY
REPLACES
Palm Coast, FL 32142-0648.
Donald Trump. Not content to play defense,
HARRY REID, D-NV
AS SENATE
MINORITY LEADER
Page 46 TO CHANGE YOUR ADDRESS or to
anti-gunners led by Senate Democrat leader report a damaged or undelivered magazine,
write: American Rifleman, c/o National Rifle
Charles Schumer want to shove more gun bans Association, P.O. Box 420648, Palm Coast,
down our throats! To learn what you can do, FL 32142-0648. Or to make changes to your
account online go to: NRAmemberservices.org.
THE SMEAR MERCHANTS WILL STOP AT NOTHING

turn to NRA Executive Vice President Wayne

TO END GUN RIGHTS. NOTHING WILL STOP THEM
Official Journal of the National Rifle Association BUT THIS CARD. GO TO WWW.NRA-2017.ORG

Do not return damaged copies. Change of

AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG

LaPierres story beginning on p. 46. Photo by address should include both new address and
Win McNamee/Getty Images a mailing label bearing the old one. In case of
0217_TAR_COVER.indd 1 12/16/16 10:48 AM
duplication send both labels.

Printed in the United States of America

 

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 NRA PUBLICATIONS
PUBLISHING OPERATIONS
Michael J. Sanford
Director
Michelle E. Kuntz
Its Howdah Duty Time ... Production Operations Manager
Ready for a break from M1911s and James C. Handlon
Marketing/Advertising Operations Manager
polymer-frame 9 mm semi-automatics? Debra Oliveri
Read about the new Howdah Senior Production Coordinator
Andrea C. Myers
.45 Colt/.410-bore double-barrel pistol Production Coordinator
at americanrifleman.org/howdah. Samantha Brown
Senior Advertising Coordinator
AR-15 Pistols For Home Defense? Eastern Sales Manager
The jury may still be out on whether Tony Morrison
(860) 767-9801
this platform is the top choice for a Southeast Sales Executive
home-defense tool, but you can check Stan Yates
(850) 619-8148
out some intriguing AR-15 pistol builds, Eastern Sales Executive
along with shooting results, at Rachelle Trout
(910) 262-0913
americanrifleman.org/ar15pistols. Northeast Sales Executive
Jake Pagragan
Savages A Game 860-767-9801
Savage Arms has been busily bringing its A game to the rimfire rifle market. Go to Detroit Advertising Sales
Ken Glowacki
americanrifleman.org/savage22 to read about the companys latest model in the (703) 267-1300
line, the A22 chambered in .22 Long Rifle. New York Advertising Sales
Mike Edison
(703) 267-1300
Western Sales Manager
Courtney Olson
(303) 955-2194
Western Sales Executive
James ONeill
(530) 401-8607
Tune in Wednesday nights to the Outdoor Channel for the Midwest Sales Executive
Tim Hamill
best firearm show on television. Now in its 15th year, (231) 360-6434
American Rifleman TV brings you a Feature, a Rifleman Western Direct Sales Executive
Debbie OConnell
Review and an I Have This Old Gun segment in each show. (805) 501-9138
To preview upcoming episodes, visit americanrifleman.org. DIGITAL OPERATIONS

An Inside Look At Les Baer

Michael Pedersen
Director, Digital Operations
Tom Rickwalder
Senior Digital Producer
Steve Dulco
February 1 Digital Producer
Crimson Trace LiNQ; Kimber Micro 9 9 mm Luger Pistol; Carolyn Lee
Digital Advertising Trafficker
Russian PPSh 43 Submachine Gun
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February 8
Marlin Firearms Today; Smith & Wesson M&P45 Shield .45 ACP Pistol; Star Firestar Pistol WARNING: All technical data in this publica-
tion, especially for handloading, reflect
February 15 the limited experience of individuals using
specific tools, products, equipment and
Accessorizing The Modern Carbine; Colt Wiley Clapp Stainless Commander components under specific conditions and
.45 ACP Pistol; Boer Mauser Rifle circumstances not necessarily reported in
the article and over which the National Rifle
February 22 Association (NRA) has no control. The data
Les Baer Custom; Ruger American Magnum Rifle .300 Win. Mag.; British Lee-Enfield have not otherwise been tested or verified
by the NRA. The NRA, its agents, officers and
No. 4(T) Sniper Rifle employees accept no responsibility for the
results obtained by persons using such data
and disclaim all liability for any consequential
injuries or damages. See asterisked (*).
* NO ADVERTISED ITEM IS INTENDED FOR
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 THE KEEFE REPORT
T
he reasons law-abiding
Americans exercise their Second
Amendment rights are as diverse,
personal and complicated as the
citizens themselves. On Nov. 25,
2016the Friday after Thanksgiving,
or Black Fridaymany of those rea-
sons resulted in 185,713 background
checks being run through the FBIs
National Instant Criminal Background
Check System (NICS). That total was
higher than any other single day since
the system went live in 1998 (and
sunset the mandatory federal waiting
period imposed by the Brady Bill).
Although there is no true measure
of exactly how many firearms were
purchased on that particular day,
NICS checks are indicative of strong
demandvery strong indeed.
Part of the reason for such a high
number of new guns sold by Federal
Firearm License (FFL) holders, no doubt,
was that dealers stocked up on inven-
tory in anticipation of a Hillary Clinton
presidency, which vowed it was going
to start the very first day to imple-
ment a strong anti-gun agenda. With
large inventories and the payments to
distributors and manufacturers com-
ing due, many shopslike most other
retailerschose to lower prices to draw
in customers. It was obviously a good
day to go gun shopping.
But that number flew in the face of
many an insider prediction. Some pro-
jected that a Donald Trump win in the
presidential racea win in which NRA
members like you played an invalu-
able rolewould tank the firearm
industry as a whole. And fast. Also,
it was thought in some circles that
demand for firearms would diminish
dramatically with the derailment of
the very real anti-gun agenda of a
Hillary Clinton administration. While
Clinton and her anti-gun minions
will not be assuming power in the
executive branch, the threat remains
very real on the state, national and
international levels.
STEEL FRAME In the hyperinflated surge in
Full size demand for firearms created by the
Barrel: 4.43 anti-gun agenda and hyperbole of
Calibers: 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP the Obama administration and Hillary
www.magnumresearch.com Clintons comments on the campaign
trailas well as the ever-present
8 FEBRUARY 2017
threat of world terrorisma host of
new guns were simply not introduced.
It is difficult for a manufacturer to
halt production to change tooling for
a new design when orders are continu-
ally coming in for the product already
rolling off the assembly line.
In particular, interest and demand
for pistols designed specifically for con-
cealed carry has never been stronger.
And makers are responding with new
or updated models that feature either
increased stopping power through
the use of cartridges such as 9 mm
Luger and .45 ACPthe Springfield
XD(S) and the Glock 43 being obvious
examplesor improving an already
pretty good platform. The .380 ACP
Ruger LCP II on December 2016s cover
was one such example. Next month we
will cover another gun that is evidence
of this demand, the Kimber Micro 9. The
Kimber Micro, the .380 ACP introduced
just two years ago, has been scaled up
to handle the increased pressures of the
9 mm Luger cartridge. Interestingly, the
recoil-operated, metal-frame, single-
stack, single-action semi-automatic pis-
tol in diminutive guise is more popular
than ever.
And as this is written, I have
already caught word of many new
products from major firearm makers.
This year promises to be one in which
such products, that may have been
sitting on the shelf, actually see the
light of day and will vie for the atten-
tions of a growing group of firearm
consumers. Those companies with
new products that have innovative
features and affordable prices will, no
doubt, have remarkable success.
Sincerely,
AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
The Feast Begins at
AguilaAmmo.com
High-performance centerfire,
rimfire, and shotshells.

2015 Texas Armament & Technology LLC

OFFICIAL JOURNAL
The Armed Citizen
W
hile its normal for a deputy to protect the public, its less normal for an everyday
citizen to get a chance to return the favor. But thats what happened in Estero, Fla.,
recently when an armed citizen shot and killed someone who was attacking a
law enforcement officer. The deputy and the assailant had been involved in a high-speed car
chase on the interstate. After the vehicles came to a stop, the suspect and Deputy Dean Bardes
got out of their respective cars. The suspect, who was armed, then started assaulting the
law officer. A passerby, who had a license to carry a concealed handgun, stopped and told the
attacker to stop beating up the deputy or hed shoot. The attacker didnt listen, so the armed
citizen fired three times, killing the assailant. Bardes was treated and released for his injuries; he
was not shot by the armed suspect. (WINK News, Fort Myers, Fla., 11/14/16)

T
he road can be a dangerous place
for anyoneeven a carjacker, if
he picks a victim who is armed.
A woman driving through a Cleveland
suburb was cut off in traffic by an SUV. A
man exited that vehiclegun drawn
and approached her car. Fortunately,
the womans 23-year-old son, who is a
concealed-carry permit holder, was with
her. The young man pulled his firearm
in defense and the bad guy fled to his
accosting the clerk as he made his way
to a car after locking up the store. When
the troublemaker pulled something out
of his waistband, the clerk ran toward an
alley, drawing his handgun as a precau-
tion. The suspect, now with a machete
in hand, pursued the store worker, who
fired in self-defense then went back into
the store to call the police. The wounded
perpetrator ran off, but he was caught a
few minutes later after a nearby resident
the house toward the room, with the
boy grabbing a shotgun from the gun
cabinet for protection. Seconds later,
the burglar opened fire on the pair, who
took cover. In a pause after the shots, the
boy stepped forward and fired once into
the intruders abdomen. The bad guy
was taken to a hospital; both father and
son were unharmed. (Idaho Statesman,
Boise, Idaho, 11/1/16)

SUV and drove off. Officers later arrested
the suspected carjacker. (Sun Messenger,
Cleveland, Ohio, 11/10/16)
B
called for an ambulance because a man eing home alone can leave one
had collapsed and needed medical aid. vulnerable, but a gun can turn the
(HeraldDemocrat.com, Sherman, Texas, tables. An Indiana woman, whose
11/17/16) spouse was away, was letting her dog

S
ome burglars just wont quit until out one evening. As she did, a man in a

they find a place they can break
into. But such determination came
back to haunt a bad guy in North Carolina.
In the town of Benson, police were
called before sunrise one November
morning and were told that a stranger
was beating on doors in the area and
possibly checking for one that was un-
locked. Before the police arrived, the bad
guy gained entry to one abode, where
the resident had a gun and shot him. The
suspect was taken to a medical facility
and charges were expected. (WNCN.com,
Raleigh, N.C., 11/27/16)
A
n Idaho teen woke up after
hearing a sharp banging noise
early one morning. He went to
investigate, and he saw his father com-
ing into the kitchen and asked about
the noise. The older man had pulled
into the driveway a minute earlier
and noticed that the garage door was
partially open, so he went outside to
check and saw a stranger crawling out
of a window to a spare bedroom. When
the intruder noticed he had been seen,
he withdrew back into the spare room.
The father and son walked through
ski mask approached. She told the man
to leave, but he didnt heed her warn-
ing. The woman ran inside the house,
with the attacker on her heels. He threw
the woman against a wall. The woman
pushed him away, got up and retreated
to a bedroom. The intruder pursued her
and climbed on top of her on the bed as
she fought against him. She struggled to
grab her husbands gun, kept near the
bed, and fired two shots at the assail-
ant. The aggressor fled and the woman
escaped serious injury. (Daily Journal,
Bargersville, Ind., 10/23/16)

G
etting physically removed from a
store after causing trouble there
apparently bruised a malcon-
tents ego enough that he sought re-
venge. After a clerk forcibly escorted an
unruly customer from a Sherman, Texas,
grocery store, the man threatened to
return later. He came back as promised,
If you have a firsthand Armed Citizen experience,
call NRA-ILA PR/Communications at (703) 267-3820.
Studies indicate that firearms are used more than 2 million times a year for personal protection,
and that the presence of a firearm, without a shot being fired, prevents crime in many instances.
Shooting usually can be justified only where crime constitutes an immediate, imminent threat
to life, limb, or, in some cases, property. Anyone is free to quote or reproduce these accounts.
Send clippings via e-mail to armedcitizen@nrahq.org, or by mail to The Armed Citizen, 11250
Waples Mill Road, Fairfax, VA 22030-9400. For bonus features, visit The Armed Citizen Blog at
americanrifleman.org. View this column online at nrapublications.org.

10 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

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VP pistols use HKs ergonomic handgun grip design that includes changeable backstraps and
side panels accommodating all hand sizes. Only HK handguns have such a personalized grip.

The VP trigger surpasses those found on competitors and has been widely hailed as a
groundbreaking component. It has a short, precise take-up with a solid, single action type break
followed by a short positive reset. Add in features like controls that are completely ambidextrous,
HKs patented charging supports for better gripping to rack the slide rearward, and a cold
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VP Standard Model VP Flat Dark Earth Model VP Grey Model VP Tactical Model
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OFFICIAL JOURNAL
standing guard
By Wayne LaPierre, Executive Vice President
The Battle to Restore Our Freedom
is Just Beginning
ot in recent memory has there
ever been an election with such
significant, life-changing conse-
quencesnot just for the future of the
Second Amendmentbut for the very
existence of the country we love and the
freedom that has created and nurtured
our great nation.
Especially with the make-up of the
U.S. Supreme Court at stake, the 2016
elections presented a clear choice
forever losing the precious liberty guar-
anteed in the Bill of Rights or seeing our
freedom recovered to flourish and grow
once and for all.
With Donald J. Trump as the U.S. pres-
ident, we have a true champion who has
already begun to undo the damage of
eight years of Barack Obamas executive
overreach and destruction of the rule
Just as the first 100 days in office are
critical for the new administration, they
are also critical for us. Now is the time
to lay out our vision.
of law. Thanks to you, with the Trump
presidency, America can rebound with a
renewed spirit of greatness, advancing
American freedom as never before.
More than any single political force in
America, NRA members and our families,
friends and colleagues made the differ-
ence in the 2016 elections that changed
the course of history.
NRAs early endorsement of Trump
was a clear warning and a bold dec-
laration that we would devote every
resource available to defeat the lawless
Obama/Clinton machine and its elite
media enablers. We did just that and you
put Trump over the top.
But the battle to restore our freedom
to the vision of the Founders is just be-
ginning. To return our nation to the path
Like us on Facebook at the National Rifle Association. View this column online at nrapublications.org.
12
of freedom, the NRA must absolutely
remain strong, which will require your
commitment and determined action as
we approach the fights ahead.
President Trump, Vice President Mike
Pence and our pro-freedom majorities
in the U.S. Senate and House of Repre-
sentatives need our grass-roots power as
never before to assure that our cause will
prevail. There is much work left to do!
For those who might walk away
believing the 2016 election was an end
in itself, tell them this is just the begin-
ning. In our grasp is nothing less than
the full restoration of firearm freedom
nationwide.
For starters, tell them two words:
Supreme Court!
Of all the battles we face in the com-
ing months, the most critical is filling
the U.S. Supreme Court vacancy created
by the passing of Associate Justice
Antonin Scalia, the brilliant, principled
champion of the Second Amendment.
President Trump has promised to nomi-
nate as his successor a justice equally
committed to the right to keep and bear
arms and to tenaciously defending all of
our guaranteed rights.
In the confirmation process, believe
this: In the Senate, no matter how
qualified a Trump high-court nominee
may be, this will be a fight unequalled
in modern history. Billionaireslike
gun-banners Michael Bloomberg and
George Soroswill reach into their
bottomless coffers and pour fortunes
into nasty, unrelenting opposition. Allied
with the medias furor, they will stoke the
FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
anger of defeated Hillary Clinton voters
into a firestorm of revengejust as
Soros has already bankrolled anti-Trump
protests nationwide.
With such massive astroturf power,
I have no doubt that New York U.S. Sen.
Charles Schumeras the new Senate
Minority Leaderwill use all the power
at his disposal to turn the confirmation
process into a circus to hold the presi-
dents choice for the court in limbo.
Schumer has sworn an all-out war
on a Trump nominee who fits the
Scalia mold, threatening, If he doesnt
nominate a mainstream candidate, were
going at him with everything weve got.
In Schumers world, the extreme views
of a gun-ban fanatic like Bloomberg rep-
resent the mainstream.
In this fight, NRA members must be
the vanguard of the special forces needed
to reshape the court to achieve genera-
tional victory for the Second Amendment.
Just as the first 100 days in office are
critical for the new administration and
new Congress, these first 100 days are
critical for us. Now is the time for us to lay
out our visionnot just for the Supreme
Courtbut for all federal courts, the
United Nations and the federal bureau-
cracy. And we have a full agenda for leg-
islation and for regulatory reforms sorely
needed to assure that this turning point
in our history is made permanent.
Likewise, strong and able men and
women will need all the support we
can muster to achieve confirmation in
cabinet and other posts in the federal
government to clean up the wreckage
of Obamas destructive transforma-
tion of America.
The Obama/Clinton regime did extraor-
dinary damage to our liberty over eight
years, and it wont be fixed in a day. But we
must assure that the nation is repaired.
Think of the IRSs vindictive pursuit
of conservatives.
 Think of the Justice Departments
top-to-bottom corruption, such as the
Fast and Furious government-sanctioned,
gun-running operation.
Think of the Department of Veter-
ans Affairs move to disarm American
heroes who require personal assistance
with their finances. Think of the same
scheme being used for Social Secu-
rity recipients. The list of government
agencies that need to be reformed or
brought to justice is staggering.
This is our historic moment to go on
the offenseto restore the full measure
of freedom throughout our nation: pass-
ing Right-To-Carry reciprocity; ending
gun-free zones on military bases; and
ensuring our right to self-defense once
and for all. These goals and more are
now possible and within our reach.
Our time is now.
Electing President Trump and a pro-
gun U.S. Senate and House alone cost
millions of your donated dollars. We
never held back, nor could we with all
our freedoms on the line.
Now with the battles for the courts,
reforming onerous gun laws, reclaiming
lost rights, and seizing this momentum
to change history, we urgently need your
financial support and determination to
keep the NRA strong and in the fight to
win battles that are headed our way.
This election proved that we are
ready to take our country back to reclaim
liberty that was all but lost. And your
leadership brought us to this moment
this one chance to secure freedom for
the next generation.
To stand our ground and fight
deep-pocketed billionaires like Soros
and Bloomberg, we are depending on
you, your families, your friends and
colleagues to rebuild the NRA for the
battles ahead.
With your generous contributions
and your continued membership in the
NRA, we can guarantee that those who
would bring the dark ages to our liberty
will not succeed. Im counting on your
renewed commitment to our cause to
protect our constitutional rights and
make America great and safe again!

FEBRUARY 2017 13
OFFICIAL JOURNAL
presidents column
By Allan D. Cors, President
Trump Administration Signals
Intent to Enforce Existing Gun Laws
T
he Obama administrations refusal
to enforce federal laws covering
armed predators is over. President
Donald J. Trumps administration will
move swiftly to begin taking the most-
dangerous armed criminals off the streets
using tough, existing federal law.
As we have been saying for decades,
there is no act involving criminal posses-
sion and use of firearms that is not already
illegal under existing federal statutes that
apply in every corner of the nation.
Wayne LaPierre summed it up very suc-
cinctly: You cant make what criminals do
with guns any more illegal than it already
is. Gun control in any and every form is
designed solely to criminalize what good
people do with firearms.
Early in his campaign for the White
House, Trump embraced Project Exile, the
remarkably successful enforcement effort
by the U.S. attorney in Richmond, Va., in
the mid-1990s. That effort resulted in a
stunning, massive drop in armed violent
crime for a city that previously ranked as
the murder capital of the nation.
Coupled with an extensive local
advertising campaign promising swift and
sure federal prosecution for armed thugs,
Project Exile resulted in criminals actually
disarming themselves to avoid mandatory
prison sentences when caught with a gun.
To gun-banners everywhere, especially
in the media, that successful program
simply didnt exist. Instead, the notion of
punishing the innocent while refusing to
NRA OFFICERS
Allan D. Cors, PRESIDENT
Pete R. Brownell, FIRST VICE PRESIDENT
Richard Childress, SECOND VICE PRESIDENT
Wayne LaPierre, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
John Frazer, SECRETARY
Wilson H. Phillips Jr., TREASURER
Christopher W. Cox, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,
INSTITUTE FOR LEGISLATIVE ACTION
For news about your NRA, visit: nra.org and nranews.com View this column online at nrapublications.org
14
hold criminals accountable for violence
remains the core principle that drives the
gun-ban movement.
You will never hear the likes of Chicago
Mayor Rahm Emanuel demand enforce-
ment of federal law to rid his mean streets
of armed criminals. It simply doesnt serve
his gun-ban agenda, which is touted as a
cure-all for the soaring number of homi-
cides that could have been prevented.
Punishing the innocent while giving
a pass to the guilty is the hallmark of
gun-banners everywhere, but nowhere
is that practice more evident than in our
nations capital.
For decades, unchecked armed vio-
lence in Washington, D.C., has been fed by
an ill-conceived and judicially abused 1985
lawthe Youth Rehabilitation Act.
Remarkably, the whole terrifying
nightmare that has been wrought under
this Alice-in-Wonderland law has been
documented in a series of recent investiga-
tive reports in The Washington Post.
The opening paragraph tells the story:
Hundreds of criminals sentenced by
D.C. judges under an obscure local law
crafted to give second chances to young
adult offenders have gone on to rob, rape
or kill residents of the nations capital.
The Youth Rehabilitation Act was sold
by local politicians and media boosters
as a means to give first-time offenders
under the age of 22 a second chance at a
crime-free life. Combined with light or no
sentencing for serious crimes, the law also
expunged conviction records.
The reporter wrote that a Washington
Post investigation has found a pattern
of violent offenders returning rapidly to
the streets and committing more crimes.
Hundreds have been sentenced under
the act multiple times.
The Post reported that since 2010,
121 Youth Act defendants have gone on
to be charged with murder. Thirty of the
murders were committed by Youth Act
criminals on probation.
FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
Further, among the Posts findings:
At least 750 offenders have been
sentenced multiple times under the Youth
Act in the past decade. More than 200 of
those were sentenced for multiple violent
or weapons offenses.
Under the Youth Act, these violent
criminals skated.
Then there is this: In at least 30
homicide cases, defendants had received
Youth Act sentences more than once
beforeturning a second chance into
a third or even fourth opportunity to
return to the community.
All this in a city that for years denied
its peaceable citizens the right to armed
defense in the home, and even today
continues to balk at court orders to
carry out the U.S. Supreme Courts Heller
decision that declared the D.C. handgun
ban unconstitutional.
The good news is that under the D.C.
hybrid system, in which local laws are pros-
ecuted by the U.S. attorneys office, orders
from the top can trump (pun intended) the
corrupt lower court system. Offenders that
have been freed to graduate from armed
robbery and assault to murder can be pros-
ecuted straightaway in U.S. District Court
using federal mandatory penalties for gun
possession and gun use.
Accelerated federal enforcement
against armed criminals in cities like D.C.,
Chicago, Los Angeles and New York will
doubtless result in much safer neighbor-
hoods. Virtually every community plagued
with armed criminal violence will benefit.
When that happens, gun control lies
from the likes of billionaire gun-banner
Michael Bloomberg will have no traction
with the non-gun-owning public.
Working together to support the
Trump administration and Project Exile, we
can indeed make America safer.
 NRA WEEKEND
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OFFICIAL JOURNAL
political report
By Chris W. Cox, NRA-ILA Executive Director
Jeff Sessions for U.S. Attorney General:
A True Defender of Our Freedom
P
resident Donald Trump has nomi-
nated a true defender of our rights
in U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.)
for U.S. attorney general. Sessions has
previously served as Alabama attorney
general and as a U.S. attorney, and is a
long-standing member of the Senate
Judiciary Committee. Trumps appoint-
ment for attorney general is vital, as the
head of the Department of Justice (DOJ)
has an incredible amount of influence on
domestic policy and oversees an array of
agenciesincluding the FBI and ATF.
Your membership dues
are not enough.
If you want to defend your right to own and
carry a firearm
If your freedom to hunt and shoot is
important to you
Then you need to support the NRA
Institute for Legislative Action.
We are the only arm of NRA specifically charged
with defending your Second Amendment
freedoms on Capitol Hill, and in state
legislatures and courtrooms across America.
Visit nraila.org/donate
to support NRA-ILA today!
In Sessions, Trump has chosen a law-
maker who believes in a justice system that
is fair for all Americansincluding those
who believe in firearms freedom. More-
over, his relentless advocacy for the swift
and sure prosecution of those who commit
violent crime makes clear that under his
watch, the DOJ will once again focus on
punishing dangerous criminals instead of
law-abiding gun owners.
I dont have to remind NRA members of
how important the office of the attorney
general is to the protection of our Second
Amendment-protected freedoms. Our
NRA-ILA: (800) 392-8683 NRA-ILA website: nraila.org View this column online at nrapublications.org
16
experience with the Obama administra-
tion made clear the extensive influence
the attorney general has on our ability to
exercise our rights. Barack Obamas first at-
torney general, Eric Holder, was an avowed
opponent of gun rights and wasted no
time putting his anti-gun ideology into
practice. And where Congress refused to
do his bidding, he turned to the regulatory
process to push his anti-gun agenda.
Although I dont have the space here
to remind readers of the litany of abuses
Holder waged against our freedoms,
many will remember his notorious Fast
and Furious scandal; his DOJ-initiated
Operation Choke Point, which purported
to combat consumer fraud by restrict-
ing unscrupulous merchants access to
banking services; and his participation in
the use of Department of Veterans Affairs
beneficiary information to improperly
deny the Second Amendment-protected
rights of hundreds of thousands of dis-
abled veterans and their families.
Shortly before leaving office, Holder
reminded us of his anti-gun intentions
when he cited the Obama administrations
inability to enact new gun controls as his
single failure. Thanks to you, his stated
goal of brainwashing Americans against
gun ownership failed.
On the other hand, law-abiding gun
owners can rest assured that with Sessions
as attorney general, our nations chief law
enforcement officer will work tirelessly to
defend our rights while protecting us from
violent criminals. In his two decades in the
U.S. Senate, he has not only compiled an
exemplary pro-gun voting record, but he
has also been a leader in numerous legisla-
tive battles to protect your freedom.
For example, in 2005, Sessions took to
the Senate floor to argue for passage of the
Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms
Act (PLCAA), pointing out that the preda-
tory lawsuits the legislation would help
prevent were a cynical attempt to steer
public policy through litigation.
FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
As ranking member of the Senate
Judiciary Committee, Sessions led the
charge against the confirmations of
Obama U.S. Supreme Court nominees
Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, repeat-
edly drawing attention to their troubling
records on the Second Amendment.
In 2013, as Obama and his allies in
Congress sought to enact new restrictions
on commonly owned semi-automatic
firearms, Sessions spoke out against such
controls. He told the Decatur Daily, If you
start banning semi-automatic weapons,
youve really banned the essence of gun
ownership today. He similarly told the
Birmingham News, I just dont see how you
can constitutionally or rationally expect
semi-automatic weapons to go away, and
Im not going to be supportive.
Further, Sessions has called for the vig-
orous enforcement of existing federal gun
laws against dangerous criminals, and he
has lauded enforcement initiatives such as
Project Exile. Speaking with the knowledge
of a former federal prosecutor, he has gone
toe-to-toe with Clinton and Obama ad-
ministration officials, including Attorneys
General Janet Reno and Holder, over the
serious decline in the number of federal
gun prosecutions. In 1999, for example,
he said the NRAs longtime argument that
the federal government should enforce
existing gun laws before enacting new
restrictions is effective because its true.
With his many decades of loyal support
for our Second Amendment-protected
rights, Sessions is eminently qualified to
serve as U.S. attorney general. This fact
should be reflected in a respectful and
rapid Senate confirmation process. How-
ever, should anti-gun senators decide to
oppose his confirmation, gun owners must
be prepared to come to the defense of our
unwavering ally, just as he has come to our
defense time and again.
Writing the Words Took Only Minutes,
Now Ill Defend Freedom Forever
You and I have spent a lifetime together NRA Member
fighting for freedom. Weve answered Planned Giving
historys call, defeated our enemies and Guide
achieved victories that seemed out of
reach only a few short years ago.
Request Your
Complimentary
But if you and I allow the flame of
liberty to go cold in the hearts of our Guide Today!
young people, all we fought for could
be lost within a generation. CALL: 1-877-672-4483
EMAIL: PlannedGiving@NRAHQ.org
By creating a constitutionally-centered
WEB: www.NRAPlannedGiving.org
will, youll lay a rock-solid foundation
Wayne LaPierre for the next generation of freedoms
Executive Vice President
defenders. Ive included NRA in my will
National Rifle Association
and I hope youll do the same.
Please call or email NRA to learn how.

N A T I O N A L R I F L E A S S O C I A T I O N of A M E R I C A
ILA STORY

Defiant
Anti-
 By Chris W. Cox
NRA-ILA
Executive Director

-Gunners
Use the Same Old
Playbook in Wake of
Trump Victory
I
t is very encouraging to think about the opportunities that await Americas
gun owners under Donald Trumps administration. I am optimistic that
we will be able to repair the faults of two Obama terms and advance our
firearms freedom in the coming months and years. Your NRA is hard at work to
ensure we do just that.
The clear takeaway from Novembers historic election is that America is
eager to change business as usual in Washington, D.C.
But gun control advocates, most of whom avidly supported Hillary Clinton,
have once again proven themselves to be out of touch and behind the curve
by doggedly clinging to their old playbook and their old agenda, despite the
electorates clear repudiation of their tactics and ideas.
One of the biggest signs that the hard anti-gun left wont change course is
the re-election of Nancy Pelosi as House Democratic leader. As The Washington Post
put it, Pelosi easily toppled Rep. Tim Ryan (D-Ohio), a seven-term lawmaker who
launched an upstart bid to lead House Democrats in response to the partys
disappointing November election results and concerns that Democrats have
become out of touch with working-class voters in key swing states like Pennsyl-
vania, Michigan and Ohio.
House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi
Photo by AP Images/Carolyn Kaster

of California speaks during her Pelosi is steeped in the anti-gun dogma of her hometown of San Francisco.
weekly news conference on Capitol Less than a month before the presidential election, she insisted on Twitter that
Hill last June, after House Democrats House Republicans give their Democrat colleagues a #gunvote. Last summer,
ended their gun control protest sit-in she facilitated a partisan sit-in on the House floor demanding that they take up
on the House Chamber floor. legislation to ban firearm purchases by those on secret government lists and to
ban private firearm transfers. Pelosi even ludicrously declared at one point that
the sit-in would continue until hell freezes over. Instead, it lasted about 16 hours
and featured social media, pillows, donuts, pizza and a catered buffet. The politi-
cal stunt accomplished nothing of substance, other than causing disruption to
official government business and expense to U.S. taxpayers.

AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017 19

OFFICIAL JOURNAL | ILA STORY
While a waste of time, the sit-in
demonstrated that Pelosi and other
anti-gun Democrats consider themselves
above the rulesand not just the rules
that they would impose upon ordinary
Americans, but the rules Congress has
imposed on itself to ensure a minimum
level of decorum and order while it pur-
sues the peoples business.
We can expect similar behavior
from Pelosis anti-gun caucus whenever
they do not get their way. We can also
expect that Pelosi will push the coastal
Democrats same old gun control agenda
at every opportunity.
We saw evidence late last year that
the gun ban ploy of messaging to
exploit emotions before facts are known
remains standard operating procedure.
Ohio State University was the latest
example, as a Somali refugee reportedly
inspired by ISIS rammed his car into a
group of people and then charged after
bystanders with a knife.
Shannon Watts, Michael Bloombergs
chief mouthpiece for Moms Demand
Action, immediately took to social media
and tweeted, For school shooting
victims its not too soon to discuss our
nations lax gun lawsits too late. Ohio options open for 2020.
State University.
Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Clintons
running mate, was soon to join Watts in
pushing the anti-gun narrative, tweet-
ing, the senseless act of gun violence
at Ohio State. After fellow Twitter
users blasted Kaine for his out-of-touch
political opportunism and inaccurate
portrayal of events, he issued a follow-up
message in which he admitted that the
attacker used a vehicle and knife.
What Watts and Kaine didnt say was
that no firearm was involvedexcept the
one used by a good guy on the scene,
Ohio State police officer Alan Horujko.
Officer Horujkos quick intervention in
neutralizing the attacker undoubtedly
prevented further loss of innocent life, a
fact that was appropriately recognized
by then-Vice President-elect Mike Pence.
Fast action by law enforcement saved
many innocent lives today, Pence wrote
on his own Twitter account. Notably,
Pence didnt publicly discuss the tragedy
until the facts were known.
But innocent lives were not the con-
cern of the Brady Campaign to Prevent
Gun Violence, which used the attack to
encourage its followers to say NO to
20
guns in college campuses. University
officials had broadcast a message to Run
Hide Fight during the attack, but anyone
forced into that last option against the
armed attacker would clearly have been
at a disadvantage. And just as clearly, the
Brady Campaign and their fellow gun con-
trol supporters want to keep it that way.
Against the clearest possible example
of the lifesaving benefits of an armed
good guy on the scene of an attempted
massacre, Brady insisted that potential
victims should continue to face would-
be killers on unequal terms.
Shortly after the November elec-
tion, NRA Executive Vice President
Wayne LaPierre congratulated pro-gun
voters for giving Hillary Clinton a perma-
nent political vacation. The 69-year-old
Clinton was on the losing side of the
biggest political upset in modern his-
tory. She proved unpopular with voters
across the spectrum and was dogged
throughout her campaign with ques-
tions about her hypocrisy and duplicity.
But not even a month after the election,
veteran reporter and Clinton chronicler
Ron Fournier signaled that the former
secretary of state had plans to keep her
As disappointed as gun control sup-
porters were in 2016, they remain as
firmly entrenched in their old ideology
and agenda and as impervious to real-
ity and rejection as ever. It would be a
mistake, however, to assume that theyre
going away.
We cannot forget that our victories
in 2016 were the result of an unprec-
edented effort by tens of millions of
NRA members and supporters who
knocked on doors, contributed funds,
volunteered time and continued to press
for freedom at every opportunity. These
tireless efforts were truly historic. But it
wasnt easy, and those arrayed against
us mounted an unprecedented level
of spending in elections at all levels of
government. We can be certain that they
will continue to attack our freedoms
wherever and whenever they have the
opportunity. Its not in their nature to
learn from their continued mistakes.
When reality clashes with the hard-
lefts ideology, they choose ideology
every time. And nowhere is this more
evident than in the case of gun control.
Thats why anti-gun politicians will
disrupt official government business to
FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
protest their own colleagues, and its
why a gun control organization will
insist that college students must remain
unarmed even as the victims of an appar-
ent terrorist attack on campus are trying
to recover from their injuries.
So we must be ever vigilant in the
defense of our firearms freedom. Because
our opponents agenda remains what it has
always beento take that freedom away.
Because whatever else happens
in America, there are always going to
be those who believe their views are
superior to everyone else and that they
must therefore dictate the conditions of
everyone elses lives. Gunsor at least
private gun ownershiphave no place
in the society they envision.
We have no reason to believe that
Michael Bloomberg or George Soros are
going away anytime soon. But even if
they did, the next generation of anti-gun
financiers are ready to replace them.
Hollywood moguls, tech billionaires, glo-
balists and crass entertainers desperate
to broadcast their own superior virtue
will remain anti-gun fixtures, especially
in the wake of an election in which the
American people so thoroughly repudi-
ated their views.
The anti-gun bills have been written
and the media talking points to support
them are already scripted. The stud-
ies to prove guns are incompatible
with civil society and public health are
underway. A generation is being raised
in cities with virtually no exposure to the
sporting traditions that have imbued
hunters with a reverence for nature and
the thrill of the chase.
And pacified adults on college cam-
puses are told that when confronted with
lethal aggression, run and hide if you
can, and fight if you must, but youll have
to improvise your defense with books,
chairs, and fire extinguishers. Because
somehow the bad guys always know
how to use their guns for evil, yet you can
never be trusted to use yours for good.
We proved once again that NRA
remains the most powerful political force
in America with our historic Election Day
victory. With focus, drive, determination,
and working together, we can prove the
point once again in the U.S. Congress and
the state legislatures, but only if we are
resolute in understanding that our oppo-
nents will continue to press for advan-
tage. The fight for freedom continues.
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OFFICIAL MEMBER BENEFITS
it pays to be a member
By Todd Grable, Executive Director of Membership
I
n the months ahead, you and I and
our fellow members have some huge
opportunities to reclaim lost freedoms
and strengthen the Second Amendment
for decades and generations to come.
These opportunities are a direct result of
your hard work last year, your support for
our cause, and your personal decision to
be a member of our great Association.
Theres no way we can thank you
enough for your role in helping us
win Novembers tremendous election
victories. But I can tell you this: Were
going to do everything we can to provide
you with the best membership benefits
package possible to save you and your
family money, and put more of your hard-
earned dollars back in your pocket.
You already know about some of
these benefits. As a member, you get
a great monthly magazine that, on the
newsstand, would cost more than your
annual NRA dues. You get free ArmsCare
insurance coverage that, once activated,
could pay you as much as $2,500 if
something happens to your guns. You
receive free admission to NRAs Annual
Its my goal to ensure that your NRA support entitles
you to rewards and benefits you deserve benefits that
will more than pay for your membership each year.
Meetings & Exhibits including one of
the biggest and best gun shows in the
country as well as invitations to local
NRA events in your area.
But theres far more that NRA can
do for you if you take advantage of the
full benefits package that comes with
your membership. In fact, hundreds of
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you need to do to start tapping into these
savings is visit benefits.nra.org today.
Going on a trip? Your NRA
membership qualifies you for discounts
of up to 20% at more than 25,000 hotels
and vacation homes worldwide. You can
also save up to 25% on car rentals with
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company. These rewards are yours to
claim today at benefits.nra.org.
Thinking about your insurance
needs? Wondering if youre getting good
value from the insurance dollars youre
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while providing your family with better
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In addition to helping you meet your
traditional insurance needs home, auto,
life, health, and long-term care our NRA-
endorsed benefit programs can provide
specialized coverage designed especially
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holders, and hunters. We can cover your
firearms for full replacement value when
your homeowners policy falls short. We
can provide critical liability coverage
including civil and criminal defense in
the event youre involved in a situation
that requires the armed defense of your
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Looking for a better credit card deal?
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and your good name? Prescription drug
savings? Its all there for you and much
more at benefits.nra.org!
When you made the decision to join
the NRA, you joined the front lines of
the most important civil rights battle
in America today protecting our
Constitution and the rights it guarantees
to every law-abiding citizen.
But while you cant put a price on
freedom, its my goal to ensure that your
NRA support entitles you to rewards and
benefits you deserve benefits that will
more than pay for your membership
each year. Our members like you have
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 New For
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HLUY`9PLZJVTL^P[OHSPML[PTL
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Unleash READERS WRITE

XL650 Riding With Pershing

Opening my magazine, I was pleased
to see the picture of my grandfather

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National Archives
crossing the Rio Grande River on
horseback behind Brig. Gen. John J.
Blackjack Pershing in Field Editor
Bruce N. Canfields 1916: Guns On The
Border (October 2016, p. 60). Grandpa
was Capt. A.J. Tittinger, seen directly
over the generals left shoulder. I recognize the photo because I have it here in
my office. Grandpa recounted to me when I was 10 that the photo was a public-
ity shot. Grandpa also said that when they were actually going after Pancho Villa
they were in Model T Fords or on Indian and Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The
campaign hat my grandfather is wearing in that photo is on display in my office,
and it is in excellent condition. It still has a little dust on it, maybe from Mexico.
Thanks for bringing these memories back.
CHUCK BRADFORD, VIA EMAIL

The Garand On Guadalcanal

Having recently pur-
chased a CMP M1 Garand,
a Springfield Armory in
the 1.5 million serial
number range, it was
with great interest that
I read Tom Laemleins
Days of Infamy: The
M1s Baptism By Fire (November 2016, p. 86). My grandfather, Pvt. Edmund
Zbikowski, Co. D, 182 Infantry, Americal Division, took part in the M1s next
baptism by fire when it returned to combat during the Battle of Guadalcanal.
A few years before he passed away, we enjoyed a spectacular Twilight
NOTE:
Tattoo at the Iwo Jima Memorial. As he served alongside the brave Marines of
Pictured
Guadalcanal, my grandfather was moved to tears. Afterwards, it was the only
here with
time in his life that he spoke to me in earnest about his time on Guadalcanal.
available
I distinctly remember asking him whether he had an M1903 Springfield or an
options.
M1 Garand. He replied that he carried an 03 Springfield for his first patrol, but
after he returned to base he found an M1 Garand. No doubt a testament to its
firepower as compared to the bolt-action M1903. As to his other stories, I will
keep them private and close to my heart, and recall his service and bravery by
passing his stories and my M1 Garand down to my daughter.
As an aside, to the day he died, my grandfather detested lamb meat. He
told me all they had to eat on New Caledonia was mutton. One day he and the
cook went out to shoot a deer, and being a Chelsea, Mass., city boy, he knew
nothing about hunting deer. They came upon a herd, and he shot at a stag.
Unfortunately, there were two overlapping stags facing away from each other,
and what he thought was the shoulder of one was actually the rump of the
other. Returning to camp, the cook exclaimed that my grandfather had ruined
the best part of the game by shooting him in the rear. From that day forward he
was forever known as Ass Shot Eddie.
WILLIAM DAY, MARYLAND

www.ar.dillonprecision.com Readers Write affords members an opportunity to comment on material published in

American Rifleman. Single-topic letters are preferred and may be edited for brevity. Send letters to:
Readers Write, NRA Publications, 11250 Waples Mill Road, Fairfax, VA 22030-9400 or e-mail us at
FREE Catalog L31-14690, Call 800-762-3845 publications@nrahq.org.

24 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

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REPORTS | NEWS & NOTES

For the first time in its 25-year history, Friends

of NRA has selected an AR-15-pattern rifle as
its Gun Of The Year. These limited-edition Daniel
Defense DDM4 V7s (danieldefense.com) will only
be available at 2017 Friends of NRA events.

26 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

Friends Of NRA
Gun Of The Year:
Daniel Defense
DDM4 V7
T
his year marks the Friends
of NRAs 25th anniversary,
and it has so far hosted
more than 17,600 events nation-
ally during that time, generating
$700 million in revenue for The
NRA Foundation. It is at these
events where attendees have a
chance at winning prizes such
as the limited-edition Daniel
Defense DDM4 V7 pictured here.
Marty Daniels passion for
excellence is reflected in his
companys guns, and it all started
with making a few parts. Now the
company has been awarded the
Friends of NRA 2017 Gun Of The
Year for its DDM4 V7 rifle.
This specialized rendition,
chambered in in 5.56x45 mm
NATO, features custom engrav-
ing on the lower receiver along
with custom NRA serialization.
Additionally, the limited run
of 1,150 guns is finished in a
distinctive hybrid Cerakote pat-
tern called Rattlecan. Upgrades
include a Geissele two-stage trig-
ger and a Daniel Defense Superior
Suppression Device capping the
16", cold hammer-forged barrel.
The DDM4 V7 uses a mid-length
gas system, and the rifles MFR
XS 15.0 handguard has M-Lok
slots for accessory attachment. A
full-length Picatinny rail along
the top of the rifle accommodates
optics, sights and accessories. The
buttstock features adjustments
for six positions and has Soft
Touch overmolding like the guns
pistol grip.
For more information, visit
friendsofnra.org.

Photo by Forrest MacCormack

 REPORTS | NEWS & NOTES

Alien Gear has developed a
holster that not only boasts
best-in-class value, but also
offers first-tier performance.
American Rifleman
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In Memoriam:
Mike Dillon
M
ike Dillon, a former member
of the NRA Board of Directors
and a giant of the ammunition
reloading industry, passed away Nov. 7,
2016, in Arizona. He was 81 years old.
Dillon started reloading as a hobby,
initially seeking to produce only
enough ammunition to keep his own
firearms fed. But in 1979 he founded
Dillon Precision Products and began
manufacturing reloading equipment
and shooting accessories from the
family garage. By selling directly to
his customers instead of through dis-
tributors, and due to his willingness
to stand by his companys products
with a lifetime warranty, Dillon
quickly established a fiercely loyal
customer base. That allowed his firm
to grow rapidly into a major player
within its industry.
In October 1990, Dillon also started
publishing The Blue Press, a catalog/
magazine with an emphasis on reload-
ing and competitive shooting, which is
still in production today. Around that
same time another of Dillons business
ventures, Dillon Aero, started work
to redesign the U.S. militarys M134
Minigun, eventually successfully achiev-
ing adoption by the armed forces.
Dillon served as an NRA Director
from 1993 to 1996, and sat on the
Collegiate Programs, Membership, Public
Affairs and Finance committees. An NRA
Life member, during his tenure with the
association he was particularly active in,
and passionate about, efforts to increase
membership, educate new shooters and
combat political assaults against the
Second Amendment.
I feel that we are now at a do
or die point in the life of the NRA. I
telling effect on the publics attitude
towards gun ownership. Only a strong
and well-financed NRA is positioned
to oppose this juggernaut.
Affiliated with the National
Reloading Manufacturers Assn and the
National Shooting Sports Foundation,
Dillon was also a founding member of
the Cactus Combat League in his home
state of Arizona, a competitive shoot-
ing group dedicated to USPSA, 3-Gun
and Steel Challenge matches.
In addition to his work within the
firearm industry, Dillon was an avid
aviator. Prior to his transition into the
reloading business, he had worked as a
flight instructor, a crop duster, a com-
mercial pilot for Trans World Airlines
from 1966 to 1980, and a writer for
Air Progress magazine from 1967 until
1974. Dillon was also a member of
the Experimental Aircraft Assn, the
EAAs Warbirds of America, the Aircraft
Owners and Pilots Assn and the T-34
Assn, and had restored several dilapi-
dated aircraft back into working order.
Dillon is survived by his wife,
Carol; their three children, Stephen,
Christopher and Stephanie; and
nine grandchildren.
Photos courtesy of Dillon family

have enough historical hindsight to

AlienGearHolsters.com
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see that others have felt that way in
the past; however, I dont believe that
the forces arrayed against us have ever
been as powerful as they are now,
he once said. The one-two punch of
Hollywoods violent television shows
and movies, combined with the liberal
lefts anti-gun messages, are having a

28 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

Apex Tactical Smith & Wesson Purchases UST Brands
Supports
B
attenfeld Technologies, Inc., the outdoor products and accessories
subsidiary of Smith & Wesson Holding Corp., has purchased Ultimate

C.O.P.S. Survival Technologies, Inc. (UST Brands) for roughly $32.3 million.
UST Brands produces a range of survival gear from LED lights to signal

T
he Thin Blue
Line Series from
Apex Tactical offers
an enhanced, black
trigger with a blade-
in-trigger safety that
is blue. Each year,
between 140 and 160
officers perish in the
line of duty, and Apex vows to donate
25 percent of each Thin Blue Line
Series trigger sale to Concerns Of Police
Survivors (C.O.P.S.), an organization
dedicated to supporting law enforce-
ment. As of this writing, the triggers
are available for Glock and Smith &
Wesson M&P pistols. apextactical.com
whistles and camp kitchens. UST Brands President Andrew Kaufmann said,
As a family owned business for many years, we are very proud of the
strong growth, profitability and outstanding reputation we have built in
the market for survival and camping equipment. We are excited about the
many organic and inorganic opportunities that UST Brands will be able to
pursue in this segment of the outdoor market with the strong support and
financial backing of Smith & Wesson. ustbrands.com
Ted Nugent Fights Veteran Homelessness
M
aking Michigan the leading state in achieving zero military veteran
homelessness, nonprofit organization Exodus Place has joined forces
with rock legend, NRA Board member and Michigan native Ted Nugent.
Ted has a heart for our military and has agreed with our president, that it
is time to complete this mission and give military veterans all the help they
need. exodusplace.org

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REPORTS | NEWS & NOTES

The War On Guns: Arming Yourself Against Gun Control Lies

W
hile attacks on the Second
Amendment are all-too-
common in todays politically
charged climate, advocates fighting for
our right to self-defense and the right
to bear arms now have a powerful
new tool in The War On Guns: Arming
Yourself Against Gun Control Lies, the
latest book by John R. Lott, Jr.
Roughly two-thirds of the book is
centered on analytic proof and com-
mentary that gives backbone to Lotts
thesis that a concerted campaign
is being waged by politicians and
bureaucrats with gun-control agendas.
The author provides a detailed
chapter-by-chapter breakdown of the
many lies and obfuscations pushed
by influential anti-gun figures. Lott
corroborates contradictory data from
various sources, including analyses
and studies he has (in full disclosure)
conducted himself.
Whatever the specific issue, read- and where it clearly
ers will be able to find a relevant doesnt support the
chapter to enhance their under- lefts assertions. It
standing of whats really at stake. is a heroic effort
The most chilling of his conclusions to show that good
is that an obvious collaboration guys with guns do make a difference
between factions in government, while also condemning those who
media and academia is attempting to purposely mislead or misdirect those
control public discourse by distorting seeking the truth.
facts to meet expected outcomes. R.H. VARCHETTO, ASSISTANT EDITOR,
Lott has accomplished the dif- AMERICAS 1ST FREEDOM
ficult task of collecting, consum-
ing, analyzing and disseminating Price: $28. Contact: Regnery
hundreds, if not thousands, of pieces Publishing; (202) 216-0600;
of research to give readers and advo- regnery.com
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might find it challenging to pore
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How to Be Cut Off From Civilization
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REPORTS | PRODUCTS & PROJECTS
SKS Mods Are Nods To Practicality
A
lthough Sergei Simonovs SKS had
a relatively short service his-
torybeing rapidly eclipsed by
Mikhail Kalashnikovs more widespread
and famous AKthe tough, stripper-clip-
fed infantry arm, which was based on
an anti-tank rifle action, is nonetheless
deserving of consideration by anyone
seeking a reliable semi-automatic rifle
chambered in the 7.62x39 mm cartridge.
The gun is so devoid of extraneous
features that it seemingly discourages
modification; so, aside from synthetic
stocks and pseudo-detachable magazines
of dubious reliability, there are relatively
few accessories available that actually
enhance its capabilities. Of those, clever
engineering is required to allow them
to attach without permanent modifica-
tionparticularly if the gun is to retain
its ability to be fieldstripped. (See p. 76
for an exploded view.)
In this case, we chose to investi-
gate one safety-related upgrade and
two styles of forward optics mounts,
along with a stock accessoryall of
which conveyed distinct advantages
to our commercially imported Chinese
Norinco and Yugoslavian military Model
59 examples. Like most SKS rifles,
our Yugo lacked a return spring on
its firing pin, allowing the pin to free
float or, possibly, jam in the bolt body,
which could result in a slamfire. While
such a condition can be minimized by
Upgrading the firing pin
helps avoid the accidental
detonation of soft primers.
The Scout
Industries mount
lies relatively low
to the bore axis.
32
removing excess carbon, debris and
cosmoline, the SKSs corresponding
firing pin and bolt hole tapers are still
prone to binding. A spring-retracted
firing pin kit ($43) from Texas gun-
smith Ben Murray (murraysguns.com)
not only helps ensure proper service
but can mitigate the unintentional
detonation of soft primers. The kit
includes the CNC-machined and heat-
treated 17-4 stainless steel firing pin,
two springs, written instructions and
a photographic cutaway, and it proved
easy to install on the Yugo. It is also
available for all late-1951 and later
Russian SKSs along with all Chinese,
Albanian and Romanian models.
When it comes to shootability,
the SKSs sights, while robust and
serviceable, are not particularly easy
on aging eyes. Although receiver-
cover scope mounts abound, most
hinder fieldstripping and cleaning, so
we decided to try out two different
scout styles designed for mounting
long-eye-relief optics ahead of the
chamber area. Another advantage of
that style is that they preserve the
guns stripper-clip method of loading.
The SKS2 Scout scope mount
($79) from Scout Industries, Inc.
(scoutscopes.com) proved to be a rock-
solid solution on the Norinco. The U.S.-
made accessory is precision-machined
to firmly attach to all varieties of the
SKS without any drilling or tapping. In
fact, the layman can typically install
the mount, making his rifle range
ready, within 30 minutes. The only
original part of the rifle that must be
set aside is the rear sight elevator.
The second unit, installed on the
Yugo, was the SKS See Thru Scope
Mount ($110) from Brass Stacker
(brassstacker.com). Die-formed from
0.115"-thick sheet steel into an inverted
U-shape, it attaches by way of a replace-
ment cross bolt. An included pin span-
ner makes removal of the original cross
bolt nut easy. Of course, as its name
suggests, the U.S.-made mount allows
use of the original irons even with
an optic in place. It attaches securely
without permanent modifications to
the firearm, and allows for complete
fieldstripping while attached. Its steel
FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
The Brass Stacker mount,
shown with an Aimpoint
Micro H-2, allows access to
the factory iron sights.
Picatinny rail measures 3516" and has
eight cross slots.
Either mount is perfect for a compact
red-dot sight such as the Aimpoint Micro
H-2 (aimpoint.com), which, admittedly
is far pricier ($796) than many SKS users
might consider the gun deserves. Still,
the models reinforced housing, see-
through, flip-up lens covers, waterproof
construction and 50,000-hour battery
life from a single CR2032 make it appro-
priately rugged for the SKS. Whether it
or a less expensive optic is chosen, and
regardless of which mount is selected, a
quality leather cheek rest, such as the
one shown from Brass Stacker ($105),
will allow the SKS shooter to maintain
proper alignment of his eye to the
scopes optical axis. In this case, it adds
the utility of an on-board ammunition
carrier sized for the guns 10-round
stripper clip. Each one is individually
hand-crafted, stitched and stamped with
a makers mark by master knifemaker
Rick Lowe in Candler, N.C.
The SKS may not be as hip as
todays other semi-automatic military
longarms, but it is a sound and proven
design that exhibits reasonable accuracy,
commendable reliability andwith the
aforementioned accessoriessuitable
utility for hunting or home defense.
DAVID LABROZZI, ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR,
AND BRIAN C. SHEETZ, SENIOR EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Rick Lowes
leather ammunition
carrier affords a
proper cheekweld.
 1-866-768-6517 www.bradfordexchange.com/13465

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 PRODUCTS & PROJECTS

Zamberlan 980
Outfitter GTX RR
G
uiseppe Zamberlan began hand-
crafting boots to conquer his
native Italian Dolomites just after
World War I. Today, his grandson Marco
continues the family tradition with the
aid of high technology. The company
offers an extensive range of models for
hunting, military, hiking and mountain-
eering applications. One example is the
10"-tall 980 Outfitter GTX RR model,
which features the Vibram StarTrek sole
for traction, a Hydrobloc-treated Nubuck
leather upper and GORE-TEX inner bootie
to shed water, and superb lateral rigidity
and a rubber rand, making it a capable
side-hiller in steep country and resistant
to damage from sharp rocks, respectively.
The 980s weight of 2 lbs., 9 ozs. per boot
in size 13, while not feathery, is more
than reasonable. Price: $390. Contact:
Zamberlan USA, Inc.; (888) 745-4774;
zamberlanusa.com.

Vortex SPARC AR
A
red-dot sight with
a 2-m.o.a. reticle
and a 22 mm
objective lens, the
Vortex SPARC ARs
Multi-Height Mount
system allows it to
provide either abso-
Introducing the lute or lower-one-third

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AR-15 iron sights. Rear-
facing controls and a front-
Prepaid Card mounted battery compartment mean
the unit doesnt need to be removed
from the gun in order to replace its
single AAA battery. The SPARC AR has
Learn more at 10 illumination settings; the lowest
www.nraprepaid.com two are compatible with night vision
*Card use subject to activation and identity verification. Terms and fees apply. equipment. Price: $259. Contact:
Vortex Optics; (800) 426-0048;
vortexoptics.com.

34 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

9MM 115 FMJ
STEEL SHELLCASE
Non-corrosive boxer primers and
clean-burning powder; perfect
for high volume range sessions
Brass jacketed lead-core bullet
for use on all ranges
Jacketed (non-plated) bullets;
can be used in ported, vented or
suppressed pistols
Shellcases include a proprietary
coating for improved reliability
and corrosion resistance
REPORTS | PRODUCTS & PROJECTS

Turnbull Ruger Mark IV

T
he Ruger Mark IV .22 Long Rifle pistol is an evolution of the handgun that
made the company what it is today. Turnbull Mfg. has taken the newest
Mark-series pistol and added a flare that the company is best known for
casehardening. The pistols easily removable top end features adjustable sights
and is drilled and tapped for an optic-mounting rail. Additionally, the receiver
and barrel have been treated by Doug Turnbull
to provide a combination of colors that is hard to
beat. Price: $595. Contact: Turnbull Mfg.;
(585) 657-6338; turnbullmfg.com.

Hexmag Series 2
A
lready known for durability and reliability, Hexmag designed its new
Series 2 AR-15 magazines to be even more ruggedly built than the original
design, while keeping the weight below 4 ozs. The magazines also feature
a redesigned feed lip profile for greater rifle compatibility, a revised catch pocket
for improved retention and new stripper-clip grooves to facilitate faster reloads
while retaining Hexmags patented exterior texturing and compatibility with the
companys HexID system. Available in black, olive drab, flat dark earth and gray.
Price: $15. Contact: Hexmag; (970) 460-2000; hexmag.com.

.375 RUGER
BULLET: HORNADY 250-GR. GMX
PROPELLANT/CHARGE: RAMSHOT
BIG GAME/78.5 GRS.

An Admirable Achievement
PRIMER: WINCHESTER LRM
CASE: HORNADY
CASE TRIM-TO LENGTH: 2.570"

O
f the myriad rifle cartridges introduced from the late- CARTRIDGE OVERALL LENGTH: 3.330"*
1990s through the 2000s, the .375 Ruger is among VELOCITY @ 10' (F.P.S.): 2732
ENERGY (FT.-LBS.): 4,143
the very best, and the load below illustrates why. ACCURACY: 1.72"**
When propelled by 78.5 grs. of Ramshot Big Game propel- USES: HUNTING (ALL SPECIES EXCEPT WHERE
lant, Hornadys leadless, 250-gr. Gilding Metal eXpanding A NON-EXPANDING BULLET IS NEEDED)

(GMX) bullet attained 2732 f.p.s. from the 22" barrel of the NOTES: 22"-BARRELED MOSSBERG PATRIOT
SYNTHETIC/MARINECOTE RIFLE TOPPED
lightweight, economicalsuggested retail price of WITH LEUPOLD VX-3 8.5-25X 50 MM
$448Mossberg Patriot Synthetic/Marinecote LONG RANGE TARGET SCOPE. *DUE TO
NA
OR D
test rifle. Thats similar to the velocity of HEAVY RECOIL CRIMPING IS RECOMMENDED.
a standard .30-06 Sprg. load featuring **AVERAGE OF FIVE CONSECUTIVE, FIVE-
SHOT GROUPS AT 100 YDS.
a 180-gr. bullet in a 24"-barreled rifle.
Y
H

Still not impressed? The 250-gr. GMX WARNING: Technical data and information
also has 4,143 ft.-lbs. of energy at the contained herein are intended to provide
information based upon the limited experience
muzzle and, given its 0.430 ballistic
37

of individuals under specific conditions and

5
R

RUGE
coefficient, still carries 2,127 ft.-lbs. circumstances. They do not detail the com-
at 400 yds., where it only drops 24.5" if prehensive training, procedures, techniques
and safety precautions that are absolutely
zeroed at 200 yds. The come-ups in m.o.a. necessary to properly carry on similar activity.
and mils are 5.8 and 1.7, respectively. From READ THE NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER ON
spitting-distance bruins to distant wapiti, its hard to beat THE CONTENTS PAGE OF THIS MAGAZINE.
ALWAYS CONSULT COMPREHENSIVE REFER-
this Ruger/Hornady brainchild. ENCE MANUALS AND BULLETINS OF PROPER
AARON CARTER, FIELD EDITOR TRAINING REQUIREMENTS, PROCEDURES,
TECHNIQUES AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS BE-
FORE ATTEMPTING ANY SIMILAR ACTIVITIES.

36 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

 FAVORITE FIREARMS

A Perfect Fit
I
never dreamed I would be adding
the name SIG Sauer to my list of
favoritesa list that currently
after noticing the laser-engraved
anchor on the slide.
Im not typically an impulse buyer,

NRA member photo

consists of Coach purses and Vera
Wang clothingbut its happened.
While target shooting at a local
firing range, I was given the opportu-
nity to try out a SIG P226 Navy pistol.
Anyone who has spent time shooting
with me knows that Im not one to
pass up the chance to shoot something
new, so I happily accepted. I smiled as
I placed my hand around the grip and
marveled at the comfortable fit; it felt
like the gun was made for my hand,
and it was lighter than I expected.
I was completely amazed after I
fired it. The action was silky-smooth,
and the trigger reset was unlike any
other pistol Id fired. I immediately
developed a strong affinity for the
firearm, and I knew I desperately
wanted one of my own, especially
but within two hours of leaving the
range that day I had purchased my
very first SIG Sauer product, the P226
MK25. I was astonished to learn that
the MK25, with its special corrosion
protection and tritium night sights, is
nearly identical to the P226 issued to have all adopted the P226, at one time
our Navy SEALs! or another, as their sidearm of choice.
I ran approximately 200 rounds I offer a special thank you to our
through it the first time I fired it, and SEALs for all you do to protect us. Im
have found it to be accurate and very proud to own the MK25, and I think
enjoyable to shoot. I understand why of you every time I fire it. The P226
the SEALs, as well as the Israel Defense MK25 is the real deal. Its a gem, and
Forces special forces, the Texas Rangers its by far my favorite firearm.
and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police TERRI PELGER, OHIO
Nearly every shooter has a favorite firearm. If you would like to share the experience of owning yours
with other American Rifleman readers, or on americanrifleman.org, send a sharp color photograph of the
gun, accompanied by its story in fewer than 400 words, with your name, address and daytime telephone
number to: Favorite Firearms, American Rifleman, National Rifle Association, 11250 Waples Mill Road, Fair-
fax, VA 22030-9400. Photos and submissions cannot be returned and may be edited for clarity and brevity.

Colt revolvers earned their place

as an icon in American history, and
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QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
The Portsider
Q
On p. 139 of the 1987 edi-
tion of Gun Digest, there is a
picture and mention of a Falcon
Portsider Left Hand 1911 made by
Falcon Firearms of Granada Hills, Calif.
What became of Falcon Firearms, and
did it ever produce such a gun? Are
there other lefty M1911s?
A
Falcon Firearms Mfg. Co. was
incorporated in Granada Hills,
Calif., on July 10, 1985. The last
statement it filed with the state was on
July 24, 1989, and it appears to have
gone out of business shortly thereafter.
According to some sources, in 1986 the
firm started producing a left-hand pistol
patterned after the Colt Model 1911
that ejected to the left rather than to
the right. As far as I can tell, there is
no source available that gives the total
production of these Portsider pistols.
They are not commonly seen, but the
2016 Standard Catalog of Firearms
gives prices for them as $225 for
poor-condition examples up to $700 for
those new in the box.
Several firms have made left-hand
pistols; perhaps the most well-known
was Randall Firearms Mfg. Co., which
was incorporated in California in
September 1982. That firm was also
short-lived, and it is sometimes said CABOT GUNS SOUTH PAW S100
that Falcon obtained the Randall tools
and leftover parts. Randall made several adequate to support large-scale produc-
versions of left-hand pistols. Reportedly tion, but there is at least one current
its quality was exceptionally good and manufacturer. Cabot Guns of Sarver,
production quantities were modest, Pa. (cabotgun.com) produces full- and
so collectors seem to value Randall Commander-size left-ejecting pistols, as
pistols highly. The overall market for well as mirror-image, two-gun sets.
left-hand pistols does not appear to be CHARLES W. PATE, CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
From the thousands of questions and letters on guns, ammunition and their use that American Rifle-
man receives every year, it publishes the most interesting here. Receiving answers to technical and
historical questions is a privilege reserved to NRA members.
Questions must be in the form of letters addressed to: Dope Bag, NRA Publications, 11250 Waples Mill Road,
Fairfax, VA 22030-9400; must contain the members code line from an American Rifleman or American Hunter
mailing label or membership card; must be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed, legal-size envelope;
and must be limited to one specific question per letter. Non-members may submit a question with a member-
ship application. We cannot answer technical or historical questions by telephone, e-mail or fax, and we can-
not place even an approximate value on guns or other equipment. Please allow eight to 10 weeks for replies.
Questions & Answers is compiled by staff and Contributing Editors: Bruce N. Canfield, Michael
Carrick, Garry James, Charles Pate, Charles E. Petty, John M. Taylor and John Treakle.
THIS IS MY NEW UPPER HAND.

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one-button takedown for quick and easy field-stripping. A recessed button in the back of the frame
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OFFICIAL JOURNAL

Photo by NRA Staff

Photo by NRA Staff

1000 Man Shoot Hits its Mark

Henry Repeating Arms, NRA pair to let 1,000 people fire
simultaneously in a celebration of firearms freedom By NRA Staff

T
he sound of freedom echoed
through the desert hills outside
of Phoenix on Nov. 14, 2016, as
1,000 shooters from across the coun-
try took positionson the firing line at
theBen Avery Shooting Facility, shoul-
dered theirHenryGolden Boy rifles and
let fly a thunderous volley.
They were participating in the
1000 Man Shoot, an event that will go
down in NRA annals as a record number
of participants to simultaneously fire
rifles. However, it was intended to be
much more than that, to show the world
that, despite what some politicians and
media elites wanted to sell the public,
Americans adamantly support the right
to keep and bear arms.
Anthony Imperato, president of
Henry Repeating Arms, hatched the idea
for the 1000 Man Shoot more than a year
before the shots rang out, during
a time when gun rights
were under siege.

44 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

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FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Range safety
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Were all gathering to make this
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Amendmentand to have a lot of fun as
well, Imperato said to the 1,000 partici-
pants, 400 instructors and safety officers
and many onlookers who attended.
Henry donated the rifles to theNRA,
the one organization Imperato knew
Boys before the shoot; participants * Always check local ordinances before burning.
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 C O V E R S T O R Y

I need your help and I need it now.

by Wayne L aPierre, Executive Vice President and ceo

FIGHT THE
SMEAR
MERCHANTS
WITH THIS
CARD
s CEO of the NRA, in honor of your victory in last years
historic presidential election, I urge you to sign and
carry your NRA membership card with pride. You won
that victory, and you ought to be proud of what you and NRA
accomplished against all odds.
More than anything else today, I need your help to fight judges, and anti-gun regulation by freedom-hating
the smear merchants who want to smear you; blame your bureaucratsand to reclaim our freedoms across this great land!
Second Amendment-protected rights for crime; and block every Im counting on you to stand with me and nra to face
pro-gun, pro-freedom reform of President Donald Trump. down the entrenched d.c. bureaucracy and political elites
From Senate Democrat leader Charles Schumer who even now seek to transform our victory into
and House Democrat leader Nancy Pelosi, to Sens. their advantage.
Richard Blumenthal, Chris Murphy and Dick Durbin, these Because let me tell you: Theyre coming out of the
anti-gun politicians not only refuse to accept that they lost woodwork. The lies, the distortions, the baseless accusations
on Election Daytheyre also coming back at us with a of racism and hatred, and the just plain mean-spirited political
vindictiveness you wouldnt believe. Not content to play vindictivenesstheyre like nothing Ive ever seen here
defense, they want to shove more gun bans down our throats! in the nations capital.
Your nra membership card is your chance to turn the tables Theyre going to do everything they can to stop, block,
on them. Its your ticket to defeat the anti-gunners embedded defeat, derail, overturn, reject, filibuster, sit-down strike and
throughout Washington, d.c.; to reverse eight long years of Barack circumvent every pro-gun, pro-Second Amendment nominee,
Obamas anti-gun executive orders, anti-Second Amendment bill or policy that President Trump proposes.

46 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

 And if you, I and the rest of the nra arent here to combat
them and retake the precious ground we lost to the extralegal
attacks of Obamathen it could all be lost.
Make no mistake: This is our moment.
This is our chance to go on offense, to
take the fight to their doors, and to defeat
And your nra membership is exactly what is needed
now as we fight to correct or counteract eight years worth of
Obamas encroachments on your right to keep and bear arms,
from the hundreds of federal judges he appointed, to his

Renew or upgrade your NRA

the forces that have aligned against our
freedoms once and for all.

membership today get a special

Its our chance to win our rights back.
And make no mistake: This fight isnt

discount and a great gift!

finishedthis fight is only beginning.
The forces arrayed against us are
gathering money, manpower and
momentum fast. Theyre using their
defeat in November as a fundraising The victories you helped us win last November
tool. Their donors are furious over have given us one last chance to take our
losing, and theyre opening their country back. Once last chance to reclaim
checkbooks like never before. the freedoms weve lost.
And lets face it: For billionaire elitists But we need your help to do it. Help
like Michael Bloomberg or rebuild NRA to full fighting strength
George Soros, the hundreds of millions by renewing or upgrading your
they spent on last years elections membership, and youll receive a
amount to nothing more than a generous discount plus a
rounding errora days worth of interest commemorative gift as our way
of saying thanks for your support!
on their bottomless bank accounts.
Their goal is the same as its always
been: To eliminate the right to keep
TO CLAIM YOUR DISCOUNT AND GIFT:
and bear arms for everyone except
themselves, their security details and Visit www.NRA-2017.org
their fellow billionaire elitists. Or call Toll-Free, 1-(855) NRA-2017
And if these anti-gun, anti-freedom
forces have their way, theyll make our Hurry These oers end February 6, 2017!
Election Day victory irrelevant long
before the next election rolls around.
Theyll attack every Supreme Court appointee Trump dares anti-Second Amendment executive orders, to the armies of
to nominate, lecturing him or her with all the sneering outrage federal bureaucrats and volumes of federal regulations they
and innuendo they can conjure. And if you think the Senate issued over the past two terms.
confirmation hearings for Clarence Thomas or Robert Bork So please, before you do anything else, take the time to
were ugly, you havent seen anything yet. rejoin nra, or renew or upgrade your nra membership right
Theyll try to spike every pro-Second Amendment now. Help me defend our freedom and stop the
regulation or reform that Trump proposes, with ominous smear merchants.
warnings of how its the cause of inner-city killings, or how its As nras executive vice president, I need you to stand
part of some larger evil agenda. with me and the nra to ensure that the victories you won on
And theyll slur you with every name in the bookracist, Election Day pay off in the form of a stronger, undiminished
sexist, homophobic, xenophobic, Islamaphobic, you name it, and thriving Second Amendment-protected right to keep and
to quote Hillary Clintonto try to discredit you, embarrass bear armsalong with the safety and freedom that it, alone,
you, silence you and demonize you in the eyes of the public. guaranteesfor our children, our grandchildren and
And with a lying, deceitful, shamelessly partisan national future generations.
media machine behind them, theyll exploit every crisis, Im counting on you.
politicize every tragedy and fan the flames of every controversy
to try to control the narrative in order to attack your freedoms. Sincerely,
Thats why I need you to sign, validate and carry your
nra membership card with pride today.
Your nra membership card is your ticket to stop
anti-gun extremists like Schumer, Pelosi, Blumenthal,
Murphy, Durbin and other anti-gun smear merchants across
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A
RIFLES

50 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN Photos by Forrest MacCormack

A
W
hats in a name? When it comes to
Kel-Tec, the Cocoa, Fla.-based firearm
manufacturer, its the Swedish heri-
tage of chief engineer and founder
George Kellgren combined with the
singular characteristic that has driven his designs for
the past 25 years: technology.
Sure, Kel-Tec could simply be referred to as a prolific
manufacturer of polymer guns, but that would ignore
much of its success. And one label that is certainly
not appropriate here is copycat. No, if Kel-Tec is
synonymous with anything, it is the continual release
of entirely novel and innovative designs. Such new
firearms frequently become fan followings but can be
elusive initially because of the companys limited pro-
duction capacity.
Given the release of its RDB 5.56x45 mm NATO car-
bine, which came on the heels of its wildly different KSG
bullpup shotgun and forward-ejecting 7.62x51 mm NATO
RFB, I think that Kel-Tec is not only onto something, but
that the better way to refer to it might be as the King of
the Bullpups.
A bullpup action configuration offers the advantage
of a standard-length barrel but in a more compact plat-
form. And while Kel-Tec didnt invent the concept
proven guns such as the British armys SA80, Steyrs
AUG and lately IWIs Tavor SAR come to mindKel-Tec
has done something these others havent: Its bullpup
rifles are fully bilateral down to their ejection, and
theyre also more affordable. Howd they do it? In a
word, engineering.
Fact is, the RFB (Rifle, Forward-ejecting Bullpup)
IMING FOR THE FUTURE
Kel-Tecs RFB & RDB
Ever the innovator, Kel-Tec has developed two handy,
affordable and completely bilateral carbines all its
own. Do they make it the King of the Bullpups?
AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG
is one of the most impressive feats of firearm design
since FNs downward ejecting P90, and that may par-
tially explain why it was announced in 2007 but didnt
begin to ship until 2009. And it really only became
available to the masses a few years later.
The development time on our guns depends on how
novel the design is, said Kel-Tec marketing director
Derek Kellgren, son of George Kellgren.For the RFB
in particular, getting the forward ejection to work took
trial and error; if there is too much bolt velocity, the
firearm will jam, if not enough, the carbine wont extract
properly. It took quite a bit of testing and re-testing to
get it to function reliably.
At first glance the delay seemed costly for Kel-
Tec, because consumer anticipation can quickly turn
to doubt, while also opening the door for competi-
tors. In the interim, however, IWIs release of its
Tavor to civilians may have actually renewed inter-
est in bullpup designs, as did Kel-Tecs own KSG. It
also allowed Kel-Tec to tweak the RFB before it hit
shelves. Then, in early 2015, it doubled down on its
bullpup bet by releasing the RDB (Rifle, Downward-
ejecting Bullpup).
The RDB builds on the RFB by simplifying its design,
improving it, marketing it to the tactical masses by
chambering it in .223 Rem. and pricing it competi-
tively with the ubiquitous AR. As such, its a fully
bilateral tactical carbine thats at least a foot shorter
than the average AR, all for around $1,000. But before
we delve into the differences of these two plastic pup-
pies, you should know something about how Kel-Tec
came to be.
BY JEFF JOHNSTON, Field Editor
FEBRUARY 2017 51
KEL-TEC
Nothing If Not Innovative
Kellgren was born in Sweden in 1943. An engineer by
trade, he designed guns for Husqvarna and other companies
before immigrating to the United States in 1979 where he
co-founded Intratec, the maker of the Tec-9. After part-
ing ways with Intratec, in 1991 Kellgren founded Kel-Tec,
Inc., and quickly found a niche making easily concealed,
inexpensive handguns such as the P-11 that, made with
injection-molded polymer, found huge success in America.
Flourishing sales allowedKel-Tec to invest heavily in R&D
for new longarm designs. As hes proven time and again
(think PMR-30, SUB-2000 and others), if George Kellgren is
going to make something, its not likely to be a copy.
Although only 10 percent of all shooters are left-
handed, zero percent like hot brass melting their skin. So
Kellgren set out to deal with ejection issues that plague
bullpup rifle designs, and in doing so had two viable
options: forward or down. So what did Kel-Tec do? Both.
Kellgren recognized the advantages of bullpup-style
firearmshed studied Interdynamics MKR bullpup in the
1970s that utilized a spine concept where the major com-
ponents are all attached to the barreland noticed a void in
the market that probably stemmed from the fact that most
bullpup designs were imperfect. It spawned his subsequent
SUB-16 bullpup design of the early 1990s and later his SRT-6
and SRT-8 bullpup sniper rifles and, ultimately, the RFB. Its
a gas-piston-operated, semi-automatic rifle chambered in
7.62x51 mm NATO thats only 27.25" overall, even with its
18" barrel. Its one of the most compact box-magazine rifles
ever chambered in the venerable round. Its also 100 percent
bilateral in control and ejection; it pushes rounds forward
out of an innovative ejection chute and onto the ground in
front of the shooters feet.
Rifle, Forward-Ejecting Bullpup
The secret of the RFBs forward ejection lies in its tilting
bolt and pivoting extractor. Firing from a closed bolt, gas
from the cartridge enters the barrels oversized port and
propels the short-stroke piston rearward an inch, lifting
the rear of the square-faced, hollow bolt out of contact
with the receivers locking shoulder. This enables the entire
52 FEBRUARY 2017
Kel-Tecs RFB, or Rifle, Forward-ejecting Bullpup, uses an adjustable
gas system (inset, r.) tuneable for various loads or accommodating
the increased pressures from suppressed fire. The polymer safety selec-
tor (inset, l.) requires a 90-degree throw and is 100 percent bilateral.
bolt assembly group, including the reciprocating charging
handle, to move rearward, extracting the case. The case is
held on both sides of its rim by dual extracting wings that
are pinned to the bolt. During the final portion of its 4.4"
rearward journey, raceways machined into the receiver cause
the bolts extractor unit to pivot, still holding the spent case
but now angling it 15 degrees upward.
With its twin recoil springs that recede into channels
above the receiver now fully compressed, and the ham-
mer cocked by the rearward-traveling bolt carrier, the bolt
reverses direction where it strips a fresh round off the maga-
zine by the now-exposed bolt head and pushes it into bat-
tery. It simultaneously shoves the still-captured case out the
ejection hole located above the chamber. As the bolt reaches
the last 1/4" of its travel into battery, raceways cause the
extractor to pivot down around the bolt head, capturing the
freshly chambered round. When the trigger is pressed again,
the entire 1/10th-second cycle starts anew. After the last
round from the magazine is extracted from the chamber, the
bolt will lock back while still holding it. Therefore the bolt
must be released to expel the last case (or live round).
As brass is pushed out the 12.25"-long aluminum ejec-
tion chute it either drops to the ground via gravity if the
rifle is held down, or it is pushed into single file up the
tube until full, at which time the first round fired is forced
out by subsequent rounds. The shooter and his comrades
must never worry about hot brass showers.
While the RFBs pivoting extractor and ejection chute
are novel and work great, Kel-Tec itself proved the system
may be overkill. While the brass is ejected forward from the
receiver, it ultimately lands on the ground at the shooters
feetthe same place downward-ejected brass lands, but
without as many mechanizations.
AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
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KEL-TEC

SPECS: RFB

MANUFACTURER: KEL-TEC CNC INDUSTRIES, INC. (DEPT. AR), 1505 COX ROAD, COCOA FL 32926; (321) 631-0068; KELTECWEAPONS.COM

27.25"

KEL-TEC CNC INC COCOA FL

T00000

MADE IN USA S
F
14.25"
CHAMBERING: 7.62X51 MM NATO
(.308 WIN.)
ACTION TYPE: GAS-PISTON-
OPERATED, SEMI-AUTOMATIC
CENTER-FIRE CARBINE
RECEIVER: MATTE-BLACK-FINISHED,
CNC-MACHINED 4140 STEEL
MAGAZINE: DETACHABLE BOX;
20-ROUND CAPACITY
18"
BARREL: 4140 CHROME-MOLY STEEL
RIFLING: SIX-GROOVE, 1:11.25"
RH TWIST
WEIGHT: 8 LBS., 5 OZS.
SIGHTS: NONE, PICATINNY RAIL
TRIGGER: SINGLE-STAGE;
5-LB., 8-OZ. PULL
STOCK: POLYMER AND METAL
ACCESSORIES: OWNERS MANUAL,
LOCK
MSRP: $1,929

SHOOTING RESULTS: KEL-TEC RFB (100 YDS.)

.308 WIN. VEL. @ 5' ENERGY GROUP SIZE (INCHES)
CARTRIDGE (F.P.S.) (FT.-LBS.) SMALLEST LARGEST AVERAGE
FEDERAL PREMIUM 2416 AVG. 2,178 1.74 2.53 2.18
168-GR. SIERRA MATCHKING 4 SD
BTHP
NOSLER ACCUBOND 2555 AVG. 2,392 2.30 3.35 2.72
165-GR. PT 20 SD
WINCHESTER 2632 AVG. 2,308 2.36 3.19 2.71
RAZORBACK XT 150-GR. HP 8 SD
AVERAGE EXTREME SPREAD 2.54
NOTES: MEASURED AVERAGE VELOCITY FOR 10 SHOTS, USING AN OEHLER MODEL 33 AT 5 FT.
ACCURACY FOR FIVE CONSECUTIVE, FIVE-SHOT GROUPS AT 100 YDS. FROM A SANDBAG REST.
TEMPERATURE: 92 F. HUMIDITY: 65%. ABBREVIATIONS: BTHP (BOATTAIL HOLLOW POINT);
HP (HOLLOW POINT), PT (POLYMER TIP), SD (STANDARD DEVIATION).

Rifle, Downward-Ejecting Bullpup
Internally, the 5.56x45 mm NATO RDBs bolt head looks
more like a common AR-15s bolt; its seven lugs rotate to
lock behind corresponding lugs in the chamber and unlock
when gas causes its short-stroke piston to shove the recoil
spring shroud/bolt actuator rod rearward, rotating the bolt
head, flinging it rearward and extracting the cartridge. The
secret to the RDBs downward ejection rests in the location
of its extractor and its dual plunger ejectors. The extrac-
tor is located on the bottom edge of the bolt head, so that
the tendency of the brass when held by its rims lowermost
edge is to cant downward. And since gravity wont do it
alone, twin plungers apply even pressure on the case head
at the 2 oclock and 10 oclock positions to ensure the brass
(or live round) tilts straight downward forcefully as it is
pulled from the chamber.
As the brass is extracted, tension between the case rim
and the extractor is maintained as the case scrapes over
the top round in the magazine, and the bolt pushes the
U-shaped hammer out of the way of the ejection chute
while cocking it. When the case reaches the cleared ejec-
tion chute, the downward pressure exerted by both grav-
ity and the plungers flips the case downward with enough
leverage to free it from the extractor and out the verti-
cal, aluminum-lined ejection port. From there a single,
overhead recoil spring, now fully compressed within the
bolt assembly, pushes the bolt back into battery, but not
before shucking a fresh round from the magazine. Its
ingeniously simple.
Truly Bilateral
Once the ejection issue was solved by two different
methods, engineers built the RDB and RFB around those
methods, incorporating design variations as necessary, while
keeping the guns as similar in look and feel as possible.
Both rifles feature fore-end-mounted charging handles
that can be easily moved to the left or right side, although
they are slightly different in design. The non-reciprocating

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KEL-TEC
The downward-ejecting RDB (above), shown with a 30-round
PMAG, employs a forward-mounted charging handle (inset, r.)
that is switchable for left- or right-hand use. The rifles gas system
is adjustable (inset, l.) without tools and comes factory set for
M193 55-gr. 5.56x45 mm NATO ammunition.
handle of the RDB is spring-loaded to fold forward and lock
against the fore-end when not in use.
A 90 degree, lever-type safety is found on both sides
of the RFBs receiver. It allows the thumb to roll it into
the forward firing position, while the trigger finger can
be used to more efficiently pull it back to safe. The
RDBs is located higher, and is best manipulated with the
thumb only. Likewise, dual bolt releases, albeit slightly
different on each model, can be quickly manipulated
with the thumb of whatever hand is used to change
the magazine.
On the RFB, a single magazine-release lever is cleverly
and centrally located behind the magazine well. As such,
it can be depressed as the hand naturally places downward
pressure on the magazine. After doing so, the thumb slides
off the release lever but remains on the magazine.
Conversely, the RDBs magazine release lever func-
tions in the same way, but is placed on the forward
edge of the magazine well so that the index finger
depresses it as the magazine is yanked. I found one
advantage of this designat least for small-handed
shooters. Rather than gripping the magazine and
releasing with the support hand, I can simply flex
my grip to release the magazine with the base of my
thumb. I suspect, however, that it would be possible
for ham-handed shooters to inadvertently release the
magazine while shooting, and, in fact, Kel-Tec has
updated current models by dipping the release in a
plastic coating so it doesnt scrape shooters thumbs.
In sum, the operators trigger hand never has to vacate
its firing position to work all controls on either of these
bullpups. In a few sessions, decent shooters of either domi-
nant hand can master their controls until theyre as fast
and intuitive as any rifle available.
56 FEBRUARY 2017
External Similarities And Differences
Both the RFB and RDB measure 27" from buttpad to
flash hider; the RFB is available in barrel lengths of 18" and
24" for an overall length of 27" and 33", respectively.
Thats about a foot shorter than AR-10-style rifles with same-
length barrels. The RDB comes with a 17.3" barrel.
Both guns heavily feature Kel-Tecs square-stippled Gator
Grip injection-molded polymer. Unlike the firms hand-
guns, however, its bullpups contain a healthy portion of
steel. Because the bullpup design places the shooters face
directly over the chamber, Kel-Tec engineers guarded against
catastrophic failure by mating the RFBs plastic fore-end,
lower receiver and lower buttstock with a 12" long, 1/16"
thickpiece of 4130sheet steel that forms the rifles cheek-
piece and the upper half of the buttstock. For additional
protection, its reinforced by a 1418"-long sheet of steel
underneath. Because of the steel on top and the open maga-
zine well underneath, any purge of excessive pressure or flak
will be forced down through the magazine well and away
from the shooters face. The RDB, on the other hand, utilizes
a piece of 1/16" polymer for its stock/cheekpeice with a
single layer of 1/16" steel for reinforcement underneath.
Both guns can be fieldstripped of their plastic exoskel-
etons in seconds with bare hands and a bullet, via four
assembly pins that are recessed nicely within the lower
receiverthe RFBs pins are captive while the RDBs are
not. This speedy fieldstripping ability is a good thing, but
even so, it does little to rectify a common complaint of
bullpups, and that is their inability to quickly clear jams
without fieldstripping. The tip of a bullet works perfectly
to start the pins. After tapping them out, simply hold the
rifle by its buttstockbarrel downthen firmly smack
the back of the pistol grip to separate the two-piece
polymer lower receiver/fore-end from the barrel and
action assembly. Pull the charging handle to remove it,
then slide the buttstock/cheekpiece off. Next remove the
action shroud that contains the bolt and recoil springs
from the barrel assembly.
If you wish to separate the RFBs bolt from its bolt car-
rier next, simply tap one pin holding itbut doing so is
AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

KEL-TEC
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SPECS: RDB .
MANUFACTURER: KEL-TEC CNC INDUSTRIES, INC. (DEPT. AR), 1505 COX ROAD, COCOA FL 32926; (321)
. . 631-0068; . . . . ..COM.
. . . .KELTECWEAPONS . . . .
37.25" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F
S
17.3"
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14.375" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CHAMBERING: 5.56X45 MM NATO RIFLING: SIX-GROOVE,
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(.223 REM.) . . . 1:7"
. . RH. TWIST
. . . . . . . . . .
ACTION TYPE: GAS-PISTON- . :. 7 .LBS.. . . . . . . . .
W. EIGHT
OPERATED, SEMI-AUTOMATIC SIGHTS: NONE, PICATINNY RAIL
. . .
CENTER-FIRE CARBINE . . T.RIGGER
. . PULL. :.SINGLE . .; . . . .
. . STAGE .
RECEIVER: MATTE-BLACK-FINISHED. , 4- LB., 9- OZ. PULL
CNC-MACHINED 4140 STEEL STOCK: MOLDED PLASTIC
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
MAGAZINE: DETACHABLE BOX; . . A.CCESSORIES . . .S MANUAL
. . . : OWNER . . ., . . .
30-ROUND CAPACITY . LOCK
BARREL: 4140 STEEL
. .
MSRP: $1,273
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SHOOTING RESULTS: KEL-TEC RDB (100 YDS.)
.223 REM. VEL. @ 5' ENERGY GROUP SIZE (INCHES)
CARTRIDGE (F.P.S.) (FT.-LBS.) SMALLEST LARGEST AVERAGE
FEDERAL AMERICAN EAGLE 3101 AVG. 1,068 2.80 3.54 3.09
50-GR. JHP 26 SD
FEDERAL PREMIUM 2665 AVG. 1,088 2.70 3.30 2.93
69-GR. SIERRA MATCHKING 28 SD
BTHP
WINCHESTER 2839 AVG. 1,146 2.40 2.97 2.62
RAZORBACK XT 64-GR. HP 14 SD
AVERAGE EXTREME SPREAD 2.88
NOTES: MEASURED AVERAGE VELOCITY FOR 10 SHOTS, USING AN OEHLER MODEL 33 AT 5 FT.
ACCURACY FOR FIVE CONSECUTIVE, FIVE SHOT GROUPS AT 100 YDS. FROM A SANDBAG REST.
TEMPERATURE: 92 F. HUMIDITY: 65%. ABBREVIATIONS: BTHP (BOATTAIL HOLLOW POINT);
HP (HOLLOW POINT), JHP (JACKETED HOLLOW POINT), SD (STANDARD DEVIATION).

unnecessary for all but the most thorough cleaning because
the bolt can be rotated up from its carrier, allowing adequate
access. The gas piston can be removed, and even the expan-
sion chamber with the removal of one pin. In less than a
minute, each gun can be broken down to easily access its
barrel, chamber, bolt, gas piston and trigger mechanism.
The Components
The RFBs barrel is a medium-contour,4140 chrome-
moly, chrome-lined tubethats milled to include two
1"-diameter lugs that provide attachment points, as well
as two sets of threads for silencers of various design. It
features six-groove, 1:11.25" right-hand twist rifling.
At the barrels chamber end, the steel receiver is
attached to the barrel via a receiver collar and barrel nut
that threads onto the barrel. The barrel is again threaded
just forward of this collar, where another nut secures one
of two machined steel bridge mounts onto an integral bar-
rel lug. This mount, along with the gas block mount, form
the attachment points for the fore-end as well as the two
arches on which the 9" Picatinny rail is mounted. The
integral gas block also serves as the chutes exit hole and
tube support.
Just ahead of the gas block is a curious 1/8" diameter
threaded section that is apparently intended for a suppressor
that would slip all the way over the muzzle and flash hider.
Finally, the muzzle terminates in a5/8-24 threaded barrel
portion that accepts the provided lock nut and flash hider
or, if you so choose, most .308 Win.-applicable silencers cur-
rently available. No doubt, much time and tooling costs are
spent on the RFBs barrel, which is the backbone of the gun.
The RDBs 1:7" twist barrel design is similar, except of
course that its smaller at 0.738" in diameter at the barrel
collar before tapering to 0.562" near the flash hider.
Both guns captive gas systems are adjustable to regulate
the amount of gas needed for various loads, suppressor use
and environmental conditions. Its gas-restrictor cap is click-
adjustable and is prevented from turning inadvertently by
use of a detent spring and pin. Kel-Tec recommends optimiz-
ing the amount of gas that powers the piston so that its
just enough to cycle the bolt reliably but not an excessive
amount that would subject the gun to undue stress.
continued on p. 86

58 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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HANDGUNS

Chinese Tokarev

60 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN Photos by author

Pistols
This factory-original box
depicts a commercial
Norinco Model 213 variant
of the Chinese Tokarev.
The gun, imported by
Sportarms, was chambered
in 9 mm Luger and was
retrofitted with a frame-
mounted safety.
AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG
Military And
Commercial Models
Although China did not design the Tokarev, it
manufactured the gun during a longer span of
time and created more military and commercial
versions than any other country.
BY CAMERON S. WHITE
hinese Tokarev pistols are as interesting as they
are ubiquitous. The Tokarev pistol was the brain-
child of Fedor Tokarev, a famous Russian small arms
designer. Tokarev began the process of designing
a semi-automatic handgun in the 1920s, and the
Soviets adopted one of his early designs in 1930,
naming it the TT-30 (Tula Tokarev 30). The TT-30
was simplified and adopted in 1933 as the TT-33 (Tula
Tokarev 33). A simple, reliable and easy-to-maintain
pistol, it was in service until the early 1950s when it
was replaced by the Makarov (also known as the Pistol
Makarova or PM). Several Soviet satellite countries
including Poland, Romania, Yugoslavia and Hungary
adopted pistols styled after the Tokarev.
During the 1950s, China began producing many small
arms of Soviet design. Examples of similar arms include
the Chinese Type 53 rifle, which is a copy of the Russian
Model 44 bolt-action, and the Type 56 rifle, which is nearly
identical to the Soviet SKS. China did not have the firearm
design infrastructure of the Soviet Union, so it was expedi-
ent to adopt existing designs that were both proven and
simple to manufacture. Likewise, it was natural for China
to adopt a version of the TT-33. The production of small
arms in China was also facilitated by a mutual aid treaty
between the Soviet Union and China signed in 1950. As
part of the treaty, the Soviet Union sent technical advisors
and machinery to China, which made the process of arms
manufacture easier.
All Chinese Tokarev pistols are the same in terms of
form and function as their European counterparts. They
are locked-breech, recoil-operated semi-automatics capable
of holding eight rounds. They are essentially a simplified
version of the John Browning locked-breech design. The
pistols are very slender and have good balance. Their profile
is different from many Browning designs, because of the
sharper grip angle, which gives them a unique appearance.
FEBRUARY 2017 61
The earliest of the Chinese Tokarevs
is the Type 51. They are dated
1951,1952,1953 or 1954 (r.).
In addition, the hammer is slightly shrouded by the slide.
While not a revolutionary design, the guns do have some
interesting features; the hammer assembly is particularly
well-thought-out. Not only does the subassembly make it
easy to inspect the component parts, but the cartridge feed
guides are incorporated into its housing, which makes feed-
ing more reliable and less reliant on the magazine feed lips.
The pistol has a sturdy magazine that can be disassembled
without using tools. The stock panels are held to the frame
in an ingenious manner, using sliding bars that fit into
recesses in the frame. Tokarevs are often seen with chipped
stocks and scratched frames due to improper attempts at
stock removal. Interestingly, there is no external safety on
the military Tokarevs. The only safety on military pistols is
the half-cock notch on the hammer. The firing pin is not of
the inertia type, so it is not safe to carry it hammer-down
with a round in the chamber. The quality of these pistols in
terms of fit and finish is generally excellent.
All military Tokarev pistols are chambered for the
7.62x25 mm cartridge, also known as the 7.62 mm Tokarev.
It is based on the older 7.63 mm Mauser cartridge devel-
oped by Hugo Borchardt in 1893. The two cartridges
have very similar dimensions, but they are not identical.
Apparently, the Soviets originally intended to adopt pistols
in the 7.63 mm Mauser cartridge in 1929 or 1930, but they
intentionally dimensioned the cartridge slightly differ-
ently to be able to utilize the 7.62 mm machinery and
gauges that were already in use at the time. This simplified
Russian arms production since it enabled the same barrel
tooling to be used for the Model 1891 Mosin-Nagant rifle,
the 1895 Nagant revolver and the Tokarev pistol.
The 7.62 mm Tokarev is a bottleneck cartridge, which
aids feeding into the chamber. The bullet weight is typi-
cally 85 or 86 grs. It is a hard-hitting cartridge that is gen-
erally loaded at high velocities, often 1300 f.p.s. or higher.
The cartridge is noted for being very flat-shooting.
Chinese Production: Type 51 And Type 54
The earliest Chinese Tokarev is known as the Type 51.
The designation comes from the three characters found on
the right side of the frame translated to mean Type 51.
There is usually a symbol stamped after these characters,
which is thought to be an arsenal marking. Other pistols
have the number 456 after the characters. Most also
have a star stamping after the serial number on the frame,
which may also be an arsenal marking. Sometimes, a small
triangle precedes the serial number on the slide.
The Type 51 is basically a copy of the TT-33, and it
differs only in its markings. It is not clear whether they
were made in Russia and sent to China or whether they
were made on Russian machinery in China. Type 51s are
dated either 1951, 1952, 1953 or 1954 on the left side of
62 FEBRUARY 2017
the frame after the serial number. The slide, slide stop,
hammer assembly and magazine are also serial-numbered.
Production numbers are not known, but they are seldom
encountered in the United States and most observed speci-
mens are well-worn. Some were captured during the Korean
War and brought back as war trophies.
Interestingly, close examination reveals some slight
differences within Type 51s. For example, some Type 51
frames have slightly thicker dimensions in the trigger
guard area. This is clearly visible when the two different
types are placed side by side. The low-relief star emblem
on Type 51 stocks can vary in size, shape and profile from
pistol to pistol.
The Type 54 superseded the Type 51 at some point
in 1954. Even though the Type 51 and the Type 54 are
mechanically identical, they differ in their markings, and
Type 54s were made completely in China. The three Chinese
characters found on the top of the slide are translated to
mean Type 54. The full serial number is also on the top
of the slide. The last three digits of the serial number are
found on the barrel, the hammer assembly and the barrel
bushing. The last four digits of the serial number are also
found on the magazine floorplate.
All Type 54s observed are marked with the number 66
after the serial number, which is believed to be a factory
designation. One source states Factory 66 is in Beian,
China, but another gives a different location. Details about
Factory 66 remain a mystery.
Type 54s often come with a sturdy leather holster that
has a compartment for a spare magazine and external
loops for a cleaning rod. The holsters are lined with colored
corduroy, often blue. The holsters do not have markings
to indicate production dates or other information, so it is
difficult to determine when a holster was produced and
whether it was issued with a given pistol.
The Type 54 was manufactured from about 1954 until
1967, although it is not clear whether it was produced
each year. Only pistols dated 1955, 1956, 1959, 1962,
1964, 1965, 1966 and 1967 have been observed. Pistols
dated 1966 and 1967 are encountered most often in the
United States. None with a date later than 1967 has been
reported, although they may exist. Unfortunately, the
AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
 THE CHINESE TOKAREV

Type 54s (r.) are mechanically identi-

cal to Type 51s, but their markings
differ from those of earlier guns.

above conclusions are based only on pistols in the

United States, so this sample cannot be considered
representative of the total Type 54 production.
Serial numbers occur in blocks of seven or eight dig-
its, with the first digit or the first two digits represent-
ing the year the pistol was made relative to the year of
adoption. The third digit is almost always a zero, and the
actual serial number starts after that. Therefore, a pistol
with an eight-digit serial number, such as 13019320, would
be pistol number 19320 made in 1966. A pistol with a
seven-digit serial number, such as 6013298, would be pistol slide is marked M20 along with the serial number. It
number 13298 made in 1959. It is worth noting that there does not have the year of manufacture or 66 marked on
appear to be some exceptions to these rules for pistols the frame as do the Type 51 and 54, so it is not possible
dated in the early 1960s (e.g., 1962). to determine when and where these pistols were made.
Pistols made each year typically started in numerical The stocks on many do not have the characteristic star
sequence (i.e. beginning with number 001 after the one- or on them. Rather, they have a plain circle where the star
two-digit date code and the zero). Interestingly, the serial typically is found. It may be that the mold for the stocks
numbers for pistols dated 1967 do not follow this pattern. was modified to remove the star or perhaps standard
Based on observed pistols, it appears that pistols made in stocks were individually ground to remove the identifying
1967 have serial numbers that were a continuation of serial star marking. Some have also been observed with stan-
numbers from 1966. For example, no 1967-dated pistols have a dard military stocks or, more rarely, wooden stocks, but
serial number lower than about 14036000 and no 1966-dated these are probably replacements. It is generally believed
pistols have a serial number higher than about 13032000. that the M20 was a sanitized version of the Type 54 and
Thus, it appears that the serial numbers for the 1967 pistols was intended for clandestine use or for export. It is not
picked up somewhere in the 32000 to 36000 range where the known how many were produced. Nonetheless, they do
1966 numbers ended. The reason for the continuation of serial show up for sale from time to time so there are a number
numbers for these two years is not known. of them in the United States.
Below are serial number ranges by year for guns It appears that at least two distinct blocks of serial
reported/observed (note that only years with multiple numbers were used for the M20 with some having seven
examples reported are notated below): digits and others six digits. The serial number on all M20
YEAR LOW HIGH ESTIMATED PRODUCTION pistols starts with an N followed by the serial number,
1964 11097XXX 11112XXX 12,000 most commonly starting with 11 or 12. A few pistols,
1965 12003XXX 12087XXX 9,000 though, have six-digit serial numbers that start with
1966 130008XX 130316XX 32,000 an N followed by 0 followed by the rest of the serial
1967 140364XX 140922XX 57,000 continued on p. 87
TOTAL ESTIMATED PRODUCTION, 1964-1967 110,000
It is very difficult to determine how many pistols were
actually produced in total, although one would assume
the number to be large since they were also used by the
Chinese army. The current status and location of Chinese
military pistols is not known. It is possible that stockpiles
of pistols remain in storage in China or perhaps some
were destroyed.

The M20
The M20 is another interesting variation. This pistol
differs from the Type 54 in that it does not have the
Chinese characters on the top of the slide. Rather, the

Based on John Brownings barrel-locking system, the robust,

recoil-operated Tokarev pistol is different in that its cartridge feed
guides are integrated into a removable hammer assembly housing.

AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017

OPTICS

64 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN Photo by Forrest MacCormack

 Getting The Job Done
With a line that includes everything from traditional riflescopes to red dots, and the high-tech
Eliminator series, Burris optics just seem to get the job done. Here is an examination of two
current offerings: the affordable C4 Plus and the top-of-the-line XTR II.
BY JOHN BARSNESS, FIELD EDITOR
any Burris scopes are like workers who show up every have the exposed elevation turrets considered so essential
day and do their jobs very competently. Theyre not by some of todays shooters, and only the 6.5-20X model
oohed and aahed over like NBA basketball players, the has a horizontal crosshair with mil hashmarks for holding
latest hot Hollywood actor or Internet bazillionaires. Theyre precisely into the wind. Instead, Fullfield IIs are scopes
not German scopes that supposedly allow us to aim in the for basic hunters, who sight-in their rifles and then dont
dark without electronics or the latest in scope for shoot- touch the elevation turret because they almost never shoot
ers who refuse to aim at anything less than half a mile away. beyond 300 yds. Mostly they want a reliable scope that
Instead, working-class Burris scopes just get the job done. wont eat up their kids college funds.
This doesnt mean there arent Burris scopes that stand Here it should be confessed that while some of my
out noticeably from the crowd, but among the companys rifles have pretty fancy scopes, with super-lenses and
best sellers is the affordable Fullfield II line. These dont precise long-range mechanics, Ive also used plain vanilla

AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017 65

BURRIS SCOPES
The author mounted the C4 Plus 3-9X 40 mm on
a Ruger American Rifle in .243 Win. using the
company's XTR Signature rings.
3-9X 40 mm Fullfield IIs extensively for hunting various
animals from prairie dogs to elk. Since 2002 one has been
mounted on one of my favorite varmint rifles, a Ruger
No. 1B in .22 Hornet, significantly reducing the number
of burrowing rodents eating the pastures of my rancher
friends. The Ballistic Plex reticle makes this pretty easy
out to 300 yds.and like big-game animals, most prairie
dogs are taken at less than 300. Just as pertinent, however,
is the fact that the scope has never exhibited a point-of-
impact shift since the day I first sighted-in the rifle.
This might not seem amazing on a 9-lb. .22 Hornet,
but Fullfield IIs have also retained zero on several rifles
I've used chambered for hard-kicking magnums. In fact, I
trusted a 3-9X Fullfield II enough to use one to take my
biggest bull elk, both in body and antler size.
Several years ago, Burris even briefly offered a 30 mm-
tubed Fullfield II with an elevation turret designed to be
dialed up and downthough with a screw-on cap, today con-
sidered a major faux pas by some shooters. One has served on
SPECS: C4 PLUS 3-9X 40 MM
MANUFACTURER: BURRIS COMPANY (DEPT. AR), 331 E. 8TH ST., GREELEY, CO 80631; (888) 440-0244; BURRISOPTICS.COM
12.2"
1.8" 30 MM
6.2"
MAGNIFICATION AND OBJECTIVE: CLICK VALUE: 1/4 M.O.A.
3-9X 40 MM RETICLE: C4 WIND MOA
FINISH: MATTE BLACK WEIGHT: 13.0 OZS.
EYE RELIEF: 3.20" TO 3.90"
66 FEBRUARY 2017
several of my rifles, and, despite plenty of use,
the clicks still work precisely and repeatedly.
The 30 mm Fullfield II wasnt produced for very
long, perhaps because Burris, like some other
scope companies, discovered that affordable
scopes with nifty features sell better under a
different name, and perhaps even price.
At the opposite end of the technological spectrum is
the Burris Eliminator III, with an internal laser rangefinder
and computer. Even for shooters over 50 its relatively
easy to enter the pertinent numbers into the computers
database, and, after sighting-in the old-fashioned way, the
laser lights up one of a series of LED aiming points, while a
corner of the field of view displays the drift of a 10-m.p.h.
wind. Oh, and the scope automatically compensates for
uphill and downhill angles, and works exactly the same
way when set on any magnification.
Does the Eliminator work? Yes. Ive used a 4-16X 50 mm
model for varmint hunting out beyond 600 yds., and to
ring steel targets slightly beyond the listed 1,200-yd. limit
of the laser. Exactly how far the dots display the
point of aim depends on the cartridge: Using
the .308 Win., the limit is somewhere around
750-800 yds., but a 6.5-06 with 140-gr.
Berger VLDs was able to use the dots effec-
tively out to 1,300 yds.
C4 WIND MOA
RETICLE
1.5"
ACCESSORIES: CUSTOM ELEVATION KNOB
CALIBRATED TO SPECIFIC LOADS AVAILABLE
ON REQUEST
MSRP: $449
AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
ADVERTISEMENT
BURRIS SCOPES

one of his aluminum STAR (Sisk Tactical

For range testing, the XTR II 3-15X 50 mm was
mounted on a Sisk STAR rifle in .308 Win.
However, most longer-range shooters prefer their smart
phone for computing range and windage adjustments, so I
recently requested a couple of manual models for testing,
a 30 mm-tubed 3-9X 40 mm C4 Plus with Wind MOA reticle
as representative of hunting scopes, and a 34 mm-tubed
3-15X 50 mm XTR II with the SCR Mil illuminated reticle as
a tactical model. Burris also sent along a pair of its XTR
Signature rings for each scope. Like the more conventional
hunting-style Signature rings, these have polymer Pos-
Align inserts allowing close alignment of the scope with
the bore, and also protecting the tube from ring marks.
The test platforms were two rifles at opposite ends
of the economic spectrum: The C4 Plus was mounted on
my Ruger American All-Weather in .243 Win., and the
XTR II on a custom rifle by gunsmith Charlie Sisk, built
on a highly modified Remington 700-footprint action in
SPECS: XTR II 3-15X 50 MM
Adaptable Rifle) stocks. The Sisk rifle has
several barrels, but for the test I screwed
on the .308 Win., a mid-weight stainless
Lilja. The .243 used handloads with 105-gr.
Berger Hunting VLDs, and the .308 Win.
Black Hills ammunition loaded with 175-gr.
Sierra MatchKings.
The traditional test for scope adjustments is shooting
the square: After getting on paper at 100 yds., the adjust-
ment turrets are clicked, up-left-down-right, and shots
taken after each adjustment to produce the corners of a
square. After several repetitions, the test should result in
groups at each corner of the square, the size of the groups
indicating the reliability of the adjustments.
It is worth noting the XTR Signature rings defi-
nitely helped when mounting the scopes in align-
ment with the rifles bores. Some shooters have
expressed their doubts about that (especially
those on that modern source of knowledge
about everything, the Internet) because the
XTR inserts are flat, rather than rounded
like standard Signature inserts. But theres
a raised ridge inside each XTR ring, allowing

MANUFACTURER: BURRIS COMPANY (DEPT. AR), 331 E. 8TH ST., GREELEY, CO 80631; (888) 440-0244; BURRISOPTICS.COM SCR MIL
RETICLE
14.13"

2.3" 1.7"
34 MM

6.4"

MAGNIFICATION AND OBJECTIVE: 3-15X 50 MM CLICK VALUE: 1/4 M.O.A. OR 1/10 MIL WEIGHT: 30.9 OZS.
FINISH: MATTE BLACK RETICLE: SCR MIL; SCR MOA; G2B MIL- ACCESSORIES: LENS COVER, FRONT SUN SHADE
EYE RELIEF: 3.5" TO 4.25" DOT (ALL ILLUMINATED) MSRP: $1,199

68 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

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BURRIS SCOPES
the inserts and scope to tilt considerably. In fact, the XTR
rings can be used to put enough slant on a scope to aid
longer-range aiming, like a slanted mounting rail.
Shooting the square works fine when testing for a scope
meant to be sighted-in and left alone, because even if the
clicks dont measure precisely as advertised (and in typi-
cal hunting scopes they often dont), as long as the point
of impact moves with each click, the scope can be zeroed
relatively easily. But with scopes featuring an elevation turret
designed to be run up and down, plus a horizontal crosshair
with windage hashmarks, shooting the square is irrelevant.
Instead, the shooter wants to know whether each click moves
the point of impact precisely the correct amount, every time.
Target shooters may be dialing up to more than 1,000 yds.,
while hunters may be interested in ranges up to 700 yds.
but even at only 700 yds., some loads require close to two
feet of elevation adjustment from their 100-yd. zero.
The most appropriate adjustment trial for modern scopes
is a tall target test, with the scope set up squarely above
the bore, and the rifle held precisely square to a plumb
target. While many of us can eyeball a scope close to
square by holding a bolt-action rifle at arms length to see
whether the vertical crosshair bisects the rear of the bolt,
I double-checked each scope with a Reticle-Tru Alignment
Device (parabola-llc.com). Its a deceptively simple tool,
but because the Reticle-Tru directly checks the relationship
between the reticle and the center of the action its nor-
mally more effective than devices using one or more tiny
spirit levels. The targets were tacked up using the two-foot
carpenters level kept in my overloaded range bag.
Before the test, I ran the elevation knobs on both Burris
scopes several times, to the limits of their adjustment, to
smooth any minor manufacturing burrs and distribute the
lubrication. A two-foot-tall target was used, partly because
that was the height of the 100-yd. target stands at the local
rangewhere you must use the provided stands. (Some
shooters would obviously want to go even taller.)
The test involved zeroing at 100 yds. as precisely as
possible, then running the elevation turret to the height of
the target, shooting one round, then adjusting the scopes
elevation dial and shooting other rounds at various points
along the two-foot center-line. The goal is a perfectly
straight vertical string of shots. The XTR II was apparently
slightly more precise than the C4 Plus, but that may have
been because the 13 lbs. of the Sisk rifle was easier to hold
absolutely steady than the 7 lbs., 8 ozs. of the Ruger.
Despite the rules about target stands, I used that particu-
lar range because it also has a bunch of steel gongs set up
at various distances out to a little more than 1,000 yds. The
scopes and rifles also proved adept at ringing steel, thanks
in part to ballistic coefficients for the bullets from Bryan
Litzs range-tested data, published in his book Ballistic
Performance of Rifle Bullets (appliedballisticsllc.com).
Once back home, I adjusted the zero stop on the XTR II,
another feature many 21st-century shooters feel absolutely
necessary for long-range scopes. On the XTR this is easy:
Loosen two set screws on the turret cap, push the cap
70 FEBRUARY 2017
The Burris Eliminator III features an integrated
laser rangefinder that determines the distance
to the target and then indicates where on the
reticle the shooter should hold.
down until it contacts the
turret base, then turn
it clockwise until it
contacts the Zero Click
Stop. Tighten the two
set screws, and the jobs
done. Ive adjusted the zero
stops on a bunch of different scopes, and the Burris system
is the quickest and slickest I've encountered so far.
Like most mid-priced scopes, the C4 Plus doesnt have
a built-in zero stop, but a washer or O-ring of the right
thickness can be placed under the turret cap to prevent
turning the elevation a full revolution below zero. Such
homemade solutions arent quite as handy as a firm, built-
in stop, especially for shooters who may want to return to
the shortest-range zero in the dark. But they work fine for
most hunters, or for those who usually dont reset their
elevation dials to several hundred yards at night.
The C4 Plus is considerably less expensive than the XTR
II, and only available in a very limited number of models,
all with the non-illuminated Wind MOA reticle. The XTR
II is available in eight models from 1-5X to 8-40X and a
wide variety of illuminated reticles, all with a three-hour
automatic shut-off to save battery life.
I also tested the optics of both scopes at night on a
self-designed optical chart, with 10 black lines on a white
background, starting with a line one inch wide at the top
and ending with a 1/16" (.0625") line at the bottom, lit by
a 100-watt bulb 25 yds. from the chart. Scopes are rated
by the smallest black line that can be distinguished with
the scope set on 6X. (Magnification also plays a definite
role in perceived brightness, as does apparent color rendi-
tionwhich can vary with individual eyesight.) The test is
designed to determine only definition, known as sharpness
to many shooters, and if the smallest line visible is particu-
larly crisp a plus symbol is added to the number.
Ive been using this system since 2009, and so far the dim-
mest scope was an old steel-tube Weaver with uncoated lenses,
rating a 5. The brightest rating has been an 8, achieved by
several scopes costing more than $1,000though a number
of $1,000-plus scopes havent tested that high. Most modern
multi-coated scopes priced under $500 rate a 6, and a 7 is
definitely brighter than average. Several Burris Fullfield IIs, as
an example, have all rated 6 plus, as did my 4-16X Eliminator
III. (One obscure fact of scope brightness, however, is that more
components added to the insides of the scope dims the view. A
laser rangefinder and a bunch of LED displays definitely count.)
In this test the C4 Plus tested 6 plus, and the XTR II rated a 7,
both very good for scopes of their type and price bracket.
Like many other Burris scopes, the C4 Plus and XTR II
definitely do more than just get the job donethey earn
their users trust.
AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
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 The Gray Wall by Don Troiani (1985)
72 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN Private Collection/Bridgeman Images

Civil War sharpshooter Berry Benson fought in sev-
eral major battles with Gen. Lee's Army of Northern
Virginia. Benson was captured and escaped from
two notorious Union prisons before returning to his
unit. At the war's end in 1865, he walked home
with his two-band, London-made Enfield.
AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG
HISTORICAL
The Enfield rifle-musket was preferred by Confederate
sharpshooters, including South Carolina Sgt. Berry Benson.
In fact, after Gen. Lee surrendered at Appomattox, Benson
walked homeand took his rifle with him.
BY JOSEPH G. BILBY
first saw the monument in downtown Augusta, Ga., in 1966,
as a young second lieutenant at nearby Fort Gordon. It was an
impressive sight, and even though I was a Yankee from New
Jersey, I was drawn to it. Statues of four Confederate generals,
including the expected icons Robert E. Lee and Thomas Stonewall
Jackson, along with lesser-known Georgians Thomas R. Cobb and
William H.T. Walker, supported the base of a tall column topped by a
figure of a lone infantryman at rest, a rifle in his hands. At the time I
didnt know that soldier was Berry Benson or, indeed, even who Berry
Benson was. And then I left for Vietnam and my own war. Years later,
while researching the Civil War and its small arms, I came across the
story of Berry Benson and his Enfield rifle. And quite a story it was.
Born across the river from Augusta at Hamburg, S.C., in 1843,
young Berry Benson proved exceptionally competent in spelling and
mathematics at school and was an avid hunter and fisherman. At
the age of 17, he was caught up in the political and emotional fire-
storm that led to the Civil War, and enlisted along with his younger
brother, Blackwood, in a South Carolina militia unit besieging Fort
Sumter. After witnessing the conflicts first shots in April 1861, the
Benson brothers marched off to Virginia with the 1st South Carolina
Infantry. The 1st fought in the 1862 Virginia Peninsula Campaign
and then marched north with Gen. Lees Army of Northern Virginia
to Second Manassas, Antietam and Fredericksburg.
Through the winter of 1862-1863, Berry and Blackwood
were selected for their brigades elite sharpshooter battalion.
Sharpshooters were trained in marksmanship and skirmishing
tactics and were issued imported .577-cal. British Enfield rifles,
which were more accurate than the more commonly issued, longer-
barreled rifle-muskets. Wounded at Chancellorsville, Benson missed
the battle of Gettysburg but was back in the ranks by winter. In the
early phases of the bloody Overland Campaign of 1864, his native
intelligence and experience as an outdoorsman led to assignment
as a scout, but on May 16 he was captured inside the Union lines
at Spotsylvania, Va., and sent to the prisoner of war camp at Point
Lookout, Md., located at the confluence of the Potomac River and
Chesapeake Bay.
FEBRUARY 2017 73
 BERRY BENSON

BERRY BENSONS PATTERN 1860

ENFIELD RIFLE-MUSKET

Berry Benson, who had no intention of remaining a pris-

oner, evaded the camp guards and swam to freedom shortly
after arriving at Point Lookout, but was recaptured and
transferred to the prison camp at Elmira, N.Y. Then, after
arriving at Elmira, Benson joined eight other prisoners in
digging an escape tunnel, using his mathematical skills to
guide the teams work. The result, a Civil War version of
the Great Escape, was the only successful breakout from
Elmira. While his comrades headed for Canada and out of
the war altogether, Benson walked south, determined to
rejoin his unit. Incredibly, he reached Confederate lines in
the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia in late 1864, and after a
period at home on leave, rejoined his sharpshooter unit in
the defenses of Petersburg.
Upon his return, Benson was promoted to sergeant. His
brother gave him a captured Spencer repeating rifle, which
he used in the final fighting around Petersburg when the
Union army broke through the Confederate defenses. Benson
quickly used up his captured ammunition, discarded the
Spencer and picked up an Enfield rifle. He carried that rifle
as the Army of Northern Virginia retreated to Appomattox,
where Lee surrendered to Gen. Ulysses Grant on April 9, 1865.
Although Berry and Blackwood Benson are listed on the
roster of those who surrendered at Appomattox, Berry, reluc-
tant to become a prisoner of war once more, slipped out of
camp with his brother and headed south. When the Bensons
discovered that the last significant Confederate force in the
field had surrendered in North Carolina, they kept on walk-
ing, all the way home, where Berry stowed his Enfield and
set about making a new life for himself in a new world.
Although it would seem unlikely, Berry Bensons postwar
career was, if anything, as compelling as his military experi-
ence. He married in 1868, had six children and, while work-
ing as an accountant, developed a complex book-keeping
method he called the Zero System and sold it to companies
all over the country. He also published well-received poetry;
literature ran in the familyBlackwood wrote several popu-
lar novels, as well. Berry Benson became an advocate for
striking mill workers and worked on developing high-protein
food crops for poor African-American sharecroppers. Benson
also became a nationally known puzzle solver, breaking a
SHARPSHOOTER SGT. BERRY BENSON

secret French code and offering his services to the United

States during the Spanish-American War, which ended before
1ST SOUTH CAROLINA INFANTRY

he could be of use. He was perhaps best known, however,

for his private investigation into the case of Leo Frank, an
Atlanta factory manager accused of raping and murdering
13-year-old Mary Phagan in 1913. Perceiving discrepancies
in prosecution testimony, Benson concluded Frank was inno-
cent. His logical arguments persuaded the Georgia governor
that there was enough uncertainty in the case to commute
Franks sentence from death to life imprisonment, but that
did not prevent the accuseds subsequent lynching.

74 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN Rifle courtesy of the Augusta Museum of History
 Benson, who became a pacifist and vegetarian in his later
years, remained active in numerous causes up to his death in
1923. He headed a campaign to support French war orphans
in World War I, advised the U.S. attorney general of the
possibility of fraud involving European and American fiscal
exchange rates and, when he became aware of the activi-
ties of Carlo Ponzi, specifically warned the Massachusetts
attorney general of the original Ponzi Scheme. In the
midst of this productive life, Benson became an officer in
the Confederate Survivors Assn and was chosen to model,
holding his Enfield, for the statue of the infantryman atop
the Augusta monument, which was dedicated in 1878.
There have been some questions raised over whether or not
the Enfield rifle attributed to Benson and currently on display
in the Augusta museumdonated by his daughter-in-law,
who published Bensons memoirs after his deathwas actually
the gun Berry Benson brought home from the war. Provenance
of a wartime firearm used by an individual is often difficult
with Civil War arms, even with Union soldiers recorded as buy-
ing a gun when mustered out of service in 1865. Claims that a
particular firearm was brought home by a Union soldier prior
to 1865 are possible, but unlikely, as permission to purchase
was not given until 1865. Even with a record of purchase it
is possible that a veteran may have bought a gun and then
left it in the barn where it rusted away and, prompted by
nostalgia, purchased a replacement from Bannermans surplus
catalog in 1900. We will never know.
In Berry Bensons, or any Confederates case, proof is
even more difficult. What we can say is that Bensons story
holds up in all other matters, and there are images of him
with an Enfield in the postwar era, including film of him
Berry Benson grew up across the river from Augusta, Ga. (above),
andlike the Clinch Rifles shown herewent to war in April
1861. His Pattern 1860 Enfield (top), which he brought home in
1865, resides today at the Augusta Museum of History.
Frank Leslie's Illustrated History of the Civil War AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG
marching with other Confederate veterans in a review
before President Woodrow Wilson in 1917, and the rifle in
question was donated by a member of his immediate family
after his death. Considering all that, it is probable that this
is indeed the gun he marched away with from Appomattox.
Some critics, who have never seen the Benson Enfield
in person, bury themselves in minutiae and depend on the
artists rendition of the gun in his hands on the monu-
ment. To settle the matter, I consulted with my Enfield
expert, Bill Adams of the North-South Skirmish Assn, who
is as knowledgeable in these matters as anyone I have ever
known. Bill, a descendent of a Confederate veteran himself,
verified that the Benson Enfield in Augusta was a London-
made Pattern 1860. He went on to note that My great-
aunts were members of the Augusta Historical Society and
also both knew Berry and Blackwood Benson. I got to see
Bensons rifle before it underwent one of those cleanings
that were so popular with museum holdings in the 1960s
and 1970s.The stock on Bensons rifle was much darker
when I first saw the rifle. The rifle has Confederate control
numbers in the stock and a John Southgate JS Anchor
inspection marking. Southgate was a British viewer (wed
call him an inspector) who was retained by Caleb Huse as a
viewer for the Confederates. Adams analysis, coupled with
the unique story of Berry Benson, convinces me that the
rifle on display in Augusta is indeed the one he carried on
that long march home in 1865.
And so, as I became familiar with the full story of Berry
Benson and his life, I realized I was truly in the presence
of greatness that summer day in Augustaand it wasnt
that of the generals.
FEBRUARY 2017 75
EXPLODED VIEW
T
he SKS is somewhat unusual
in that, despite being widely
encountered in the United States
today, it had a relatively short and
uneventful service life in Russia where
it originated. Named Samozaryadnyj
Karabin Simonova, or Simonov self-
loading carbine, the SKS was designed
by Sergei Simonov. It was adapted
from his previous work with the
AVS-36 semi-automatic rifle and the
PTRS-41 anti-tank rifle. While the first
trials were conducted late in World
War II, it continued to undergo design
changes until 1949, when it was ulti-
mately adopted with the retroactive
designation of Model 1945.
Production ran only until 1958, as the
iconic Kalashnikov AK-47 was developed
during the same period. The AK quickly
proved that, despite being adopted in
the guise of a submachine gun, it could
do everything the SKS could do, so
Simonovs design was rendered redun-
dant and obsolete. Russian production
stopped, and the SKS saw minimal
combat use with Russian troops.
Disassembly
First, confirm the gun is unloaded.
To remove the rear receiver cover (17),
rotate the takedown latch (14) upward
90 degrees, and pull it out the right
side of the receiver cover (FIG. 1).
Next, remove the recoil springs (24)
and bolt (19) and carrier (18) assembly.
The dual recoil-spring assembly is cap-
tive on its guide rod (26), and may be
pulled out of the bolt carrier (18). Then
pull the bolt handle back until the bolt
carrier can be lifted up and out of the
receiver (13). The bolt may lift up with
the bolt carrier or it may fall out.
To remove the gas piston (1), first
rotate the gas piston locking lever
(7) upward 45 degrees (to its upper
detent). The gas cylinder (2) may now
be lifted out, rear end first (FIG. 2).
76
It did, however, find welcome
homes across the Warsaw Pact and in
China. In the 1950s, the SKS would
be adopted and put into produc-
tion by Yugoslavia, Romania, China,
Albania, North Korea, East Germany
and, to a small extent, North
Vietnam. Chinese production dwarfed
the rest, with millions made for both
the Peoples Liberation Army and
for export or foreign military aid.
A great many Chinese SKS carbines
have come into the United States,
along with many from the other
nations that adopted them.
The SKS is a semi-automatic-only
design chambered for the 7.62x39 mm
cartridge. Its fixed box magazine is
reloaded via a 10-round stripper clip.
The locking system uses a tilting-bolt
operated by a short-stroke gas piston.
Folding bayonets of both the blade
and spike types were used depend-
ing on the specific model, although
in many cases they were removed for
importation into the United States.
Variations are relatively few in the
The gas piston will slide out the front of
the gas tube once it is free of the gun.
Removing the trigger assembly
begins with the safety (42) engaged
(horizontal). Use the tip of a cartridge
or a pointed tool to depress the catch
(15) at the rear base of the trigger
guard (39) (FIG. 3). The trigger group
will pop out under spring pressure. The
magazine assembly may now also be
lifted out of the stock (28). To strip
the trigger guard, hold it in a padded
vise. Push down on the disconnector
(49) and pull the trigger (44) to release
the hammer. (Caution: Be careful as the
hammer is under heavy spring pressure.)
Use a metal bar as shown (FIG. 4) to
force the hammer out. Remaining parts
can be disassembled by driving out pins.
FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
SKS Carbine BY IAN MCCOLLUM
SKS, with some short-barreled and
AK-magazine-fitted versions made
commercially in China (as well as
a stamped-receiver version), and a
grenade-launching version made by
Yugoslavia. Other variations differ in
markings and aesthetic details only.
While many may turn their noses
up at the SKS because of its low cost
and perceived status as cheap foreign
junk, it is actually a well-designed
and well-made Cold War workhorse
with more in common with the
American M14 than many would like
to admit.
The SKS
loads from
the top with
a 10-round
stripper clip.
Reassembly
Note that reinstallation of the
trigger assembly can be difficult. To
replace the trigger assembly, first set
the magazine back into the stock, if
you removed it. Ensure that the front
of the magazine is secured under the
lip on the bottom of the receiver.
Then fit the two pins at the front of
FIG. 1
NRA Museum photo
 1

5
2 6

Parts Legend 3 8

1. PISTON 29. TRIGGER GUARD SPRING 4

2. HANDGUARD AND GAS 30. MAGAZINE 55
CYLINDER 31. MAGAZINE FOLLOWER 7
3. PISTON EXTENSION 32. FOLLOWER 18
4. PISTON RETURN SPRING SPRING 23
5. FRONT SIGHT 33. HINGE PIN 19
22
6. FRONT SIGHT SEAT 34. MAGAZINE 20
7. PISTON LOCKING LEVER COVER 24 25 9
8. BAYONET SCREW 35. COVER LATCH
9. BAYONET ASSEMBLY 36. LATCH SPRING 21
10. HOLD OPEN LATCH PIN AND SEAR SPRING
26 10
16 11
11. HOLD OPEN LATCH 37. SEAR
13
SPRING 38. LATCH STOP PIN 12
12. HOLD OPEN LATCH 39. TRIGGER GUARD 27 14
13. RECEIVER AND BARREL 40. DISCONNECTOR
ASSEMBLY HINGE PIN 17
15 30
14. TAKEDOWN LATCH 41. TRIGGER PIN
15. TRIGGER GUARD LATCH 42. SAFETY CATCH 31
16. LATCH PIN 43. SAFETY CATCH 32
17. RECEIVER COVER SPRING 33
18. BOLT CARRIER 44. TRIGGER
19. BOLT 45. SAFETY CATCH PIN 29
51
34
20. FIRING PIN 46. TRIGGER BAR 52
RETAINER 47. TRIGGER BAR PIN 28
21. FIRING PIN 48. TRIGGER SPRING 53 35
49 36
22. EXTRACTOR 49. DISCONNECTOR 48 50
SPRING 50. REBOUND 54 37
46
23. EXTRACTOR DISCONNECTOR 47 39 38
24. RECOIL SPRING 51. HAMMER 44
25. SPRING RETAINER 52. HAMMER STRUT PIN 40
43
26. LARGE SPRING GUIDE 53. HAMMER STRUT 41
45
27. SMALL SPRING GUIDE 54. HAMMER SPRING
28. STOCK ASSEMBLY 55. CLEANING ROD 42 From a drawing by E.J. Hoffschmidt

the trigger frame into their matching
notches at the rear of the magazine.
That will lock the trigger and magazine
into the receiver. Then press the trigger
guard firmly into the stock, which may
require substantial force if the spring
and catch are new and stiff.
With the gas piston in the tube,
ensure that the gas piston locking lever
is in its upward position before replacing
the gas piston assembly. Then place the
front end of the gas tube over the boss
on the rifles gas block. Drop the rear end
of the gas tube into its slot in the rear
sight block and rotate the gas tube lock-
ing lever to its downward position.
Hook the bolt and bolt carrier
together, and carefully set the assem-
bly into the rear of the receiver.
Pushing downward lightly to overcome
pressure from the hammer, slide the
bolt carrier forward in the receiver
rails. Remember to open the magazine
cover or depress the follower to allow
the bolt to move forward.
Replace the receiver cover. First
insert the recoil spring back into the
bolt carrier from the rear, with the
curly section (the end with the small-
diameter guide rod) in the bolt carrier.
Slide the receiver cover into place,
and, while holding it fully forward,
push the locking pin through the
receiver and rotate it downward until
it is horizontal.
Safety note: Many SKS rifles
were packed with cosmoline or other
preservative grease when imported. It
is important to ensure that the firing
pin moves freely in the bolt when the
gun is disassembled. The guns design
does not include a firing pin spring, and
excessive grease in the firing pin channel
can cause the pin to stick in the forward
position and fire unexpectedly when a
cartridge is chambered (See p. 32.) If
necessary, consult a gunsmith before fir-
ing your SKS.

FIG. 2 FIG. 3 FIG. 4

Illustration by David Labrozzi AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017 77

 LOADING BENCH
Loading The Versatile
.308 Winchester
T
he .308 Winchester provides
middle-of-the-road ballistic per-
formance, yet produces first-rate
utility. The cartridges enormous pop-
ularity (second only to the .223 Rem.
among center-fire rifle cartridges)
has created a wealth of bullets and
propellants aimed at everything from
reloading for practice, target shooting
and hunting.
SPECS: .308 WINCHESTER
0.473"
1.560"
1.712"
2.015"
2.810"
78
BY JOHN HAVILAND
Young hands appreciate the ease
of handling a lightweight rifle, and
someone starting down the hunting
trail needs plenty of practice. But the
recoil of regular .308 Win. loads shot
from a 6-lb. Ruger American Compact
may cause a sensitive shoulder to wince.
Reducing recoil by way of decreasing
bullet weights and propellant charges is
likely to encourage meaningful practice.
0.454" 0.343"
FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
Black bears are no match for the .308 Win.
shooting quality bullets. The author har-
vested this one with a 165-gr. Hornady GMX.
The recoil created by 125-gr.
projectiles loaded with 38.5 grs. of
H322 (listed in the load table), is
nearly half that of full-measure loads
with 150-gr. bullets. A nice feature of
this reduced load is that the bullets
hit only 1" below full-power 150-gr.
bullets and 1" above 168- and 180-gr.
bullets at 100 yds., so sight adjust-
ment can remain the same, whether
punching paper or hunting.
But these light amounts of propel-
lant slosh around in a .308 Win. case,
leading to wide swings in velocity. The
38.5 grs. of H322 loaded with Sierra
125-gr. bullets, listed in the table, is
4.9 grs. below the maximum listed in
the Sierra Bullet Infinity 7.0 program.
That combination produced a 101 f.p.s.
spread over 10 shots. The load still
shot fine, although with some vertical
stringing. In contrast, Berger 125-gr.
bullets turned in a much narrower
spread of 42 f.p.s. with a near-
maximum charge of TAC that fairly well
filled a .308 Win. case. Heavier bullets
produced similarly low velocity spans.
Not much speed is required for a
bullet to punch through the ribs of a
deer standing broadside out to 150 yds.
Hornady 150-gr. SST bullets paired
with 41.0 grs. of IMR 4895 produced
a mild speed of 2473 f.p.s. from the
18.5" barrel of a Mossberg MVP Flex
rifle in .308 Win. Hornady states SST
bullets readily expand at impact speeds
down to 2000 f.p.s, which that load
slows to at 225 yds. If there is any con-
cern about adequate bullet expansion
at these slower speeds, simply load
bullets intended for the .30-30 Win.
The .308 Win. easily picks up the
pace shooting larger game and longer
distances, but cannot spare any
bullet speed for such pursuits. The
16" barrels of various scout rifles
lose upwards of 100 f.p.s of velocity
compared with the same loads fired
through 18.5" barrels, and they give
up 125 f.p.s when compared to 22"
barrels. And, in my opinion, these
abbreviated barrels are no handier
than a 20" barrel.
Illustration by David Labrozzi
Repurposing Surplus Brass
T
he supply of new cases for handloading remains erratic,
and when .308 Win. cases are available they cost at least
50 cents apiece. To keep my .308 rifles shooting, I bought
a box of 500 once-fired military surplus 7.62x51 mm NATO cases
from Everglades Ammo and Reloading (evergladesammo.com)
for $85 delivered to my door.
The cases were clean, bright and shiny as new. The bulk
of the cases were Lake City, but headstamps also included
FC (Federal Cartridge) and RA (Remington) with the
NATO insignia headstamp of a cross in a circle from vari-
ous years. They were 0.011" longer measured to the datum
point of the shoulder than Hornady commercial cases fired
in my .308 Mossberg bolt-action and Colt autoloader. A
size die set the shoulders back to the proper headspace
dimension. Trimming the cases to the correct length and
removing the crimp around the primer pocket finalized
them for loading.
Military cases are usually thicker and have less internal
capacity than commercial cases. That was true of the Lake
City cases that weighed 12.8 grs. more and had 4 percent
less total capacity than Hornady cases. To compensate for
that smaller volume, I reduced maximum powder charges
listed in handloading manuals by about 4 percent and mostly
use them for low-pressure cast bullet and practice loads.

A 20" barrel provides quite acceptable woods. That maintained weight allows The following spring, in Northern
bullet speed for the 40-some grains of shooting 150- to 165-gr. bulletsthe Alberta, my guide and I were filling
propellant the .308 burns. The 20" barrel perfect weights for the .308which the bait barrel with popcorn. A black
of the Mossberg MVP Predator rifle, used produce a trajectory a few inches flatter bear came out of the bush at a deter-
to shoot the loads in the accompanying at long distance than 180s. mined pace for the bait.
table, fired 150-gr. bullets at nearly Two seasons ago, I shot a six-point Big bear, the guide said, step-
2800 f.p.s. and 180s close to 2700 f.p.s. bull elk as it stood quartering away at ping back.
A .30-'06 Sprg. with the same length 237 yds. The 165-gr. GMX fired from I stepped forward and fired my
barrel wont exceed those speeds. my Mossberg .308 hit the bull in the .308 to my immediate benefit. The
For deer hunting, 150-gr. bul- rear rib, punched up through the lungs GMX bullet dropped the bear
lets and the .308 Win. match like and lodged under the hide in front of dead right there.
wool socks and winter. Traditional the far shoulder. The bull pitched off
bullets, such as Hornady InterLock the mountain, but made it only 60
and Sierra Pro-Hunter, are tough to yds. before it fell dead.
beat for price and for performance at
.308 speeds. Some hunters, though, The .308 Win. works well, for
want the assurance bullets will hang practice to big game, with a variety
together on iffy angles and tough of bullet weights. Good examples
animals. Barnes Tipped Triple Shock, include (l. to r.): Sierras 125-gr.
Nosler AccuBond and Hornady GMX Pro-Hunter, Bergers 125-gr. FB
bullets provide that surety. Top speeds Target, Noslers 150-gr. AccuBond,
for those bullets come from propel- Hornadys 168-gr. A-MAX and
lants such as TAC, IMR 4064, CFE 223, Sierras 180-gr. Pro-Hunter.
IMR 4895, Reloder 15 and A2460.
The Mossbergs skinny barrel felt
SELECTED .308 WINCHESTER LOAD DATA
hot enough to light a cigar after fir-
ing 10 shots. Still, the hunting rifle BULLET BULLET PROPELLANT CHARGE VELOCITY AVERAGE GROUP
shot Hornady 168-gr. A-MAX bullets BRAND/TYPE WEIGHT WEIGHT (F.P.S.) SIZE (INCHES)
(GRS.) (GRS.) @ 100 YDS.
reasonably precisely when paired with
Reloder 15. Other propellants, such as BERGER FB TARGET 125 TAC 49.0 3094 1.82
IMR 3031 and 4895, TAC, and W748, SIERRA PRO-HUNTER 125 H332 38.5 2571 1.45
have provided good accuracy with NOSLER ACCUBOND 150 VARGET 46.5 2773 2.06
target bullets in other .308 rifles.
The consensus is to shoot heavy HORNADY A-MAX 168 RELODER 15 44.0 2640 1.73
bullets when hunting large game like SIERRA PRO-HUNTER 180 BIG GAME 49.5 2668 1.65
elk and giant black bears. Thats good NOTES: VELOCITIES ARE THE AVERAGE OF 10 SHOTS OVER A CHRONY MASTER CHRONOGRAPH
advice with regular bullets, say Sierra AT 10 FT. FROM THE 20" BARREL OF A MOSSBERG MVP PREDATOR. ACCURACY RESULTS
180-gr. Pro-Hunters. However, 200-gr. ARE MEASURED FROM FIVE, FIVE-SHOT GROUPS USING A REDFIELD REVOLUTION 3-9X 40 MM
RIFLESCOPE SET ON 9X. ALL LOADS WERE ASSEMBLED WITH FEDERAL CASES AND WINCHESTER
bullets are too much for the .308s
LARGE RIFLE PRIMERS. TEMPERATURES: 70 TO 90 F. CARTRIDGE OVERALL LENGTH, 2.80",
moderate-size case, causing a steep EXCEPT 2.70" FOR SIERRA 125-GR. PRO-HUNTER.
decline in velocity and trajectory.
Bullets that ration expansion are a WARNING: Technical data and information contained herein are intended to provide information
based upon the limited experience of individuals under specific conditions and circumstances. They
better bet for these big animals. Bullets do not detail the comprehensive training, procedures, techniques and safety precautions that are
such as the Nosler AccuBond or Hornady absolutely necessary to properly carry on similar activity. READ THE NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER ON THE
GMX hold onto most of their weight CONTENTS PAGE OF THIS MAGAZINE. ALWAYS CONSULT COMPREHENSIVE REFERENCE MANUALS
AND BULLETINS OF PROPER TRAINING REQUIREMENTS, PROCEDURES, TECHNIQUES AND SAFETY
no matter what they encounter in the PRECAUTIONS BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY SIMILAR ACTIVITIES.

Photos by author AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017 79

DOPE BAG
I
n 1903, two semi-automatic shot-
guns revolutionized hunting. John
M. Brownings long-recoil-operated
Automatic-5Five shots under your
finger, read the advertisingand
Swedish gunsmith Carl Axel Theodor
Sjgrens inertia-operated Normal Sjgren, in the form of Brownings
shotgun. Pump guns had yet to
exist for a full two decades, and yet
here were shotguns that did all the
work, save aiming the shot. Sjgrens
scattergun sold in modest numbers
and was soon forgotten in favor of
Brownings Auto-5, but they would
meet again in the future.
The darling of the Browning
Auto-5 line was the Sweet Sixteen.
Built on a sleek 20-ga. action, the
Brownings Sweet Sixteen
combines the original Auto-5s
aesthetic cues with the companys
more modern, inertia-operated
Kinematic Drive system.
80
Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen
Sweet Sixteen was made by Fabrique
Nationale in Belgium from 1937 to
1975, although there was an under-
standable break from 1940 until 1947
due to World War II.
In 2012, Browning again met
sist of a red fiber-optic rod found near
new inertia-operated A5. Produced
first in 12-ga. models, when the 16
gauge came along in 2016 it was built
on its own scaled frame.
The A5 Sweet Sixteens Kinematic
Drive uses a rotating bolt head ubiqui-
tous to all inertia-operated shotguns.
A takeaway from semi-automatic mili-
tary rifles, the rotating bolt engages
matching recesses in the barrel exten-
sion when the action is in battery.
When the gun is discharged, the bolt
remains stationary while a carefully
calibrated spring tightens the grip
of the locking lugs. When the guns
recoil slows, the spring decompresses,
allowing the lugs to be rotated into the
open position and the stored inertia in
the mass of the bolt to move it rear-
ward. If there is not a fresh round in
the magazine, the bolt is locked to the
FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
rear. If a fresh round is present, it is
released from the under-barrel tubular
magazine, tripping the bolt release
and causing the bolt to travel forward
into battery.
Sights on the new Browning con-
the muzzle and a white brass bead
mounted mid-barrel. The test Sweet
Sixteen weighed 5 lbs., 7 ozs., and,
being of such a light weight, might be
expected to portend excessive recoil.
In shooting patterns and hunting
pheasants in the field, however, recoil
was perceived to be mild. Part of the
softened recoil is due to Brownings
Inflex II recoil pad that combines
ultra-soft materials with its internal
design that causes the pad to move
the gun downward away from the
cheek when absorbing recoil.
Being of 21st century design, the
Sweet Sixteen comes with three choke
tubesImproved Cylinder (0.008"
constriction), Modified (0.012") and
Extra Full (0.045"). Pattern testing
at 40 yds. made use of the Modified
tube, as this would seem to be the
SPECS

IMPORTER: BROWNING USA (DEPT. AR), ONE BROWNING PLACE, MORGAN, UT 84050; (801) 876-2711; BROWNING.COM
49.25"
2.25" 1.75"

14.25" 28"

MANUFACTURER: B.C. MIROKU (JAPAN)
ACTION TYPE: INERTIA-OPERATED,
SEMI-AUTOMATIC SHOTGUN
GAUGE: 16, 2" CHAMBER
TRIGGER: SINGLE-STAGE; 5-LB., 12-OZ. PULL
MAGAZINE: TUBULAR; FOUR-SHELL CAPACITY
SIGHTS: FIBER-OPTIC ROD AT MUZZLE, WHITE
BEAD MID-BARREL
STOCK: WALNUT, PISTOL GRIP-STYLE;
0.375" CAST
WEIGHT: 5 LBS., 8 OZS.
METAL FINISH: BLACK ANODIZED RECEIVER,
DEEP-BLUED BARREL
ACCESSORIES: OWNERS MANUAL,
CHOKE TUBES (IMP. CYL., MOD.,
EXTRA FULL), CHOKE WRENCH,
LOCK, PLASTIC CASE
MSRP: $1,700

The Sweet Sixteens sights consist of a

white bead (r.), located mid-barrel, and
a red fiber-optic pipe (opposite, below)
found at the muzzle. SHOOTING RESULTS (40 YDS.)

most versatile. The results of the pat-
terns are shown graphically nearby.
We found that this choke provided
tight modified percentages, 66 per-
cent, with No. 6 Kent Ultimate Fast
Lead loaded with its Diamond Shot
that combines extra-hard lead shot
with a proprietary coating. This load
gave an average velocity of five shots
over our chronograph of 1214 f.p.s.
very near the box-marked 1220 f.p.s.
While at the patterning board, we
also shot some of Kents new 1-oz.
No. 5 Bismuth shotshells that the
firm is loading for the 16-ga. market,
and it turned in a close-to-identical
percentage, 64, compared with lead.
This expansion of the 16 gauges
ammunition into non-lead shot waxes
well for those hunting on state and
federal lands that require non-toxic
shot, as the lethality of bismuth
plus its softer-than-steel composi-
tionmake it a good choice for
upland and waterfowl alike.
One of the selling points of the
original Auto-5 was its square or
hump back that advertising said led
the eye to the targetit was primar-
ily to accommodate the recoiling
barrel and boltand this distinctive
feature has been retained, although it
is not quite as square and prominent
as on the original. Handling in the
field was excellent. The balance is
between the hands with the slightly
longer 28" barrel, and due to its
KENT ULTIMATE FAST LEAD
16-GA., 234", 1 OZ., NO. 6 LEAD
AVERAGE PELLET COUNT: 226
MEASURED VELOCITY @ 3 FT.: 1214 F.P.S.
AVERAGE OF 10 PATTERNS
light weight, would make carrying = POINT OF HOLD
it through the grouse woods, behind
pointers in quail cover or through an
endless Midwest corn field for pheas- 14 20
ants easy and comfortable for the
entire day. 25 22
One of the reasons for the Sweet 23 19
Sixteens light weight is the alumi- 13 15
num receiver that is only a parts
carrier, as all the forces of recoil are
taken up with the steel bolt, bolt
head and the barrel extension. So MODIFIED (0.012")
confident is Browning of the dura-
bility of the Sweet Sixteen, that it 21" INNER CIRCLE: 89 (39%)
provides a 100,000-round guarantee 30" OUTER RING: 62 (27%)
against premature wear. The pistol TOTAL HITS: 151 (66%)
grip-style stock and fore-end are of
dark-stained, glossy-finished check- All-in-all, the Browning A5 Sweet
ered walnut. The checkering appears Sixteen is a sweetheart for the 16-ga.
to be laser-cut, but in keeping with aficionado, and for those unfamiliar with
the companys quality standards, is this old, traditional gauge, its a treat in
probably hand-pointed. the field and worth checking out.
The American Rifleman has used the phrase Dope Bag since at least 1921, when Col. Townsend
Whelen first titled his column with it. Even then, it had been in use for years, referring to a sack used
by target shooters to hold ammunition and accessories on the firing line. Sight dope also was a
traditional marksmans term for sight-adjustment information, while judging wind speed and direction
was called doping the wind.
WARNING: Technical data and information contained herein are intended to provide information based
on the limited experience of individuals under specific conditions and circumstances. They do not detail
the comprehensive training procedures, techniques and safety precautions absolutely necessary to
properly carry on similar activity. Read the notice and disclaimer on the contents page. Always consult
comprehensive reference manuals and bulletins for details of proper training requirements, procedures,
techniques and safety precautions before attempting any similar activity.

AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017 81

DOPE BAG

FIME Rex
Zero 1S

A
rex is a name most American Arex machines the pistols major full-length slide rails. MIL-STD 1913
shooters dont yet recognize. components from bar stock. The slide Picatinny rail is machined into the
Established more than 20 years is made from chrome-moly steel and bottom of the frames dustcover for
ago, the Slovenian company has been the frame from 7075 aluminum. The the attachment of lights and/or
making products for the defense frame is hard-anodized and has a lasers. Examining the fit of the slide
industry as well as parts for various hardened steel barrel-unlocking block to the frame revealed virtually no
firearm manufacturers. Just recently inserted. Arex machines the barrel from vertical or horizontal play.
the company introduced its first hand- bar stock and uses the cold-hammer- The Rex Zero 1Ss full-profile slide
gun, the Rex Zero 1S, which is being forged method of rifling. Both the helps attenuate the already mild
imported by FIME Group. slide and barrel are treated with the recoil of this full-size service gun.
Designed and manufactured com- companys proprietary nitrocarburizing It is bushingless in design, and has
pletely in-house, the new pistol bears surface process to increase hardness and a loaded-chamber indicator and an
more than a passing resemblance to provide corrosion resistance. internal extractor. Cocking serrations
the SIG Sauer P226 pistol, however, it Immediately noticeable is the Rex fore and aft help the shooter charge
has some important differences. FIME Zero 1Ss long dustcover, which adds the chambereven with wet hands.
Group is offering three different Rex rigidity to the frame and incorporates The pistol uses a single recoil spring
Zero variants: the full-size Standard
model tested here, a Tactical model Both the front (l.) and rear (r.) sights, presented in the popular three-dot pattern, are
with a threaded muzzle, elevated sights dovetailed into the slide and are drift-adjustable for windage.
and three optics-mounting plates,
and a Compact model with shortened
dimensions and decreased capacity.
The Rex Zero 1S is a 9 mm Luger-
chambered semi-automatic pistol with
a capacity of 17 rounds. It locks up by
way of the barrels breech block engag-
ing the slides ejection port. Its trigger
mechanism is double-action on the
first shot with each subsequent shot
firing single-action, until the hammer
is decocked. Or shooters can carry the
pistol cocked and locked, with the
chamber loaded, the hammer back and
the manual thumb safety applied.

Externally the Rex Zero 1S appears to be

very similar to SIG Sauers P226 pistol,
however, internally there are several differ-
ences, and the two pistols share no parts.

82 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

 SPECS
IMPORTER: FIME GROUP, LLC (DEPT. AR), 7582 S. LAS VEGAS BLVD., SUITE 477,
LAS VEGAS, NV 89123; (702) 215-3600; FIMEGROUP.COM
7.6"

A00000 A00000
and a full-length, steel recoil-spring 9x19 arex SLOVENIA

guide. Both the front and rear fixed

sights are dovetailed into the slide
A00000 FIMEgroup Las Vegas NV USA
and are drift-adjustable for windage.
The pistols fire-control system
holds a number of innovations. Its 4.25"
slide stop also pulls double duty as a BARREL: HAMMER FORGED,
decocking lever. Pushing down allows 1:9.8" RH TWIST
the slide to go forward into battery. MAGAZINE: DETACHABLE
Depressing the lever farther down BOX; 17-ROUND CAPACITY
5.5" SIGHTS: WHITE, THREE-DOT,
decocks the hammer. At the rear of
MANUFACTURER: AREX DRIFT-ADJUSTABLE
the frame is a bilateral manual safety. (SLOVENIA) TRIGGER: DOUBLE-ACTION,
Pushing up on the lever disengages CHAMBERING: 9 MM LUGER 13-LB. PULL;
the trigger bar from the sear. The ACTION TYPE: RECOIL- SINGLE-ACTION, 5-LB.,
safety can be applied with the ham- OPERATED, SEMI- 4-OZ. PULL
AUTOMATIC CENTER-FIRE WIDTH: 1.2"
mer down or with it cocked. Even PISTOL WEIGHT: 32 OZS.
with the safety engaged, the user can SLIDE: CHROME-MOLY STEEL ACCESSORIES: OWNERS
manipulate the slide to load or unload FRAME: HARD-ANODIZED MANUAL, PLASTIC CASE,
the pistol. The hammer can also be ALUMINUM EXTRA MAGAZINE, LOCK

decocked while the manual safety is MSRP: $649

engaged. To disengage the safety, the
user simply pushes the lever down in SHOOTING RESULTS (25 YDS.)
the same manner as the M1911 thumb
9 MM LUGER VEL. @ 10' ENERGY GROUP SIZE (INCHES)
safety. There is a passive firing pin CARTRIDGE (F.P.S.) (FT.-LBS.) SMALLEST LARGEST AVERAGE
safety that protects against accidents
AMERICAN EAGLE 1214 376 1.08 1.84 1.63
caused by dropping the gun on its 115-GR. FMJ 8 SD
muzzle, and it is disengaged only
when the trigger is fully depressed. AGUILA 1109 338 1.13 1.59 1.42
124-GR. FMJ 10 SD
The Rex Zero 1S uses a bilateral
magazine release located at the junc- HORNADY 994 322 0.87 1.29 1.20
ture of the trigger guard and frame. The 147-GR. XTP 13 SD
release can easily be activated by either AVERAGE EXTREME SPREAD 1.42
the thumb or trigger finger. Vertical NOTES: MEASURED AVERAGE VELOCITY FOR 10 SHOTS FIRED OVER A PACT PROFESSIONAL
grooves are machined into the front and XP CHRONOGRAPH AT 10 FT. ACCURACY RESULTS FOR FIVE CONSECUTIVE, FIVE-SHOT GROUPS
rear frame straps, and black synthetic AT 25 YDS. FROM A MILLETT BENCHMASTER REST. TEMPERATURE: 83 F. HUMIDITY: 7%.

stocks are attached with two button-
head screws each. The trigger guard is
elongated to provide plenty of room for
a gloved trigger finger and is serrated on
its face. Arex machines the frame and fits
a pin at its heel for use with a lanyard.
To evaluate the Rex Zero 1S for accu-
racy we placed our targets at 25 yds. and
fired all groups from a seated rest utiliz-
ing a Millett Benchmaster for support.
All groups were fired in single-action
mode. The Rex Zero 1Ss double-action
trigger is relatively long and heavy
registering just over 13 lbs. But the
single-action trigger is very manage-
able, breaking at 5 lbs., 4 ozs. after
about 3/8" of take-up. The sights are
low-profile, three-dot, combat-style
and were well-regulated for the dis-
tance. Hornadys 147-gr. XTP bullets
produced the best group, measuring
just 0.87" for five shots.
ABBREVIATIONS: FMJ (FULL METAL JACKET), SD (STANDARD DEVIATION) XTP (EXTREME
TERMINAL PERFORMANCE).
Disassembly of the Rex Zero 1S is
quick and easy and requires no tools.
First apply the manual thumb safety
and remove the magazine. Ensure that
the gun is clear and lock the slide to
the rear. Rotate the take-down lever,
located on the left side of the frame,
downward 90 degrees. Depress the
slide lock and allow the slide to run
off the frame rails. The recoil spring
and guide can now be removed, free-
ing up the barrel. Reassembly is in the
reverse order.
While we had the Rex Zero 1S
disassembled we couldnt resist the
temptation to see if any parts would
interchange with those of a SIG P226
we had on hand. The answer is no. The
slide, barrel and frame are of different
dimensions, and nothing was compat-
ible from one gun to the other. Even
magazines would not interchange.
During our evaluation we fired
more than 400 rounds of various
ammunition through the pistol with
no stoppages or failures of any sort.
Quoting from the companys web-
site, Arex does not claim to have a
revolutionary design but rather have
improved manufacturing processes
and quality control. The entire design
was performance driven and oriented
towards long-term durability with a
service life of 30,000 [rounds]. We
found the Rex Zero 1S to be well-
made, and it possessed the accuracy
and reliability needed for serious
defense and sport use.

AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017 83

DOPE BAG
I
nstalling without tools onto
a full-size M1911 frame (not
included), the Mech Tech Carbine
Conversion Unit (CCU) legally coverts
John Brownings venerated pistol into
a 16"-barreled carbine. Essentially
functioning as an AR-style upper
receiver once mounted in place, the
non-serialized CCU (which is deemed
by the ATF to be an accessory until
installed atop an autoloading pistol)
replaces the host guns slide and
barrel assembly. The new configura-
tion allows the carbine to retain the
pistols superb single-action trigger
and comfortable grip angle, as well
as to utilize some of the host hand-
guns operating controlswhich
will be seen as real boons to fans of
Once the host guns
barrel assembly
and slide have
been removed,
installation of the
CCU requires only
aligning the rails
inside the unit
with those on the
frame (1.) and
then sliding the
frame forward as
far as it will go
(2.). Re-installing
the M1911s
slide release (3.)
secures the com-
ponents together.
84
old Slabsideswhile increasing the
firearms ballistic performance and
accuracy potential.
Made of rolled steel with a powder-
coated finish and a corrosion-resistant
interior coating, the CCUs cylindrical
housing encases a simple blowback
operating system that uses the energy
exerted by expanding propellant
gases on the cartridge case to cycle
the action. An extractor located on
the bolt draws the spent case from
the chamber where it can be expelled
from the upper by the lowers ejec-
tor. The bolts rearward motion is then
stopped upon contact with a thick rub-
ber block, and the guns recoil springs
(located along the top of the bolt
assembly) drive the action closed again,
(2.)
(1.)
(3.)
FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
Mech Tech CCU
stripping a fresh cartridge from the
detachable box magazine and chamber-
ing it along the way. The CCU does not
lock back on an empty magazine.
A reciprocating charging handle is
found on the left side of the unit, and
the bolt can be locked in the open
position by retracting the handle and
then pushing in on it until it engages
a notch in the wall of the housing.
Even after conversion to a rifle, the
CCU still utilizes the host M1911s grip
and frame-mounted thumb safeties,
as well as its magazine release button,
which should make the carbines man-
ual of arms familiar to handgunners.
Mech Tech offers the CCU with four
different buttstock options. The unit
reviewed here includes an adjustable,
M4-style stock that can be replaced in
typical AR fashion; however, fixed and
telescoping versions are also available.
Base models all come with a 6" seg-
ment of Picatinny rail along the top
of the receiver and a molded foregrip.
Many optional accessoriessuch as
additional rails, sights, lights and ver-
tical foregripscan either be factory-
installed at the time of purchase or
bought separately. While federally
permissible, state and local laws in
certain areas may prohibit some con-
figurations of the CCU, so care should
be exercised to ensure legality.
No permanent modification needs
to be made to the host M1911 in order
to install the CCU, and the process
is easily reversible. First, separate
the slide and barrel from the pistols
SPECS
MANUFACTURER: MECH TECH SYSTEMS (DEPT. AR), 3243 HWY. 93 SOUTH, KALISPELL, MT 59901; (866) 433-2122; MECHTECHSYS.COM
0.5" 0.5"
14.25" TO 18.25"
The CCU is compatible with most single-
and double-stack frames, however, the bolt
does not lock back on an empty magazine.
frame, leaving the hammer cocked.
Next, retract the units bolt and lock
it in the open position. Now, mate the
rails inside the CCU with those located
on the frame, pushing the frame
forward as far as it will go. Finally,
reinstall the M1911s slide release to
lock the components together.
Our evaluation CCU was cham-
bered in .45 ACP, with a 16" stain-
less steel barrel and 1:16" right-hand
twist rifling. Mech Tech also offers
1911-compatible uppers in 10 mm Auto
and .460 Rowlandwith 9 mm Luger
models likely coming in the future.
According to Mech Tech, the CCU
should be compatible with nearly all
single- and double-stack 1911 frames,
however, it would be prudent to check
with the company regarding suitability
with a specific model.
In addition to the M1911 unit
tested here, Mech Tech produces CCUs
that are compatible with both com-
pact and full-size Glock models and
most Springfield XD/XD(M) platforms.
The Glock conversion kit is offered
chambered in 9 mm Luger, .40 S&W,
10 mm Auto and .45 ACP, while the
Springfield uppers are being produced
in 9 mm Luger, .40 S&W and .45 ACP.
30.5" to 34.5"
16.25"
CHAMBERING: .45 ACP
6" ACTION TYPE: BLOWBACK-OPERATED, SEMI-AUTOMATIC CENTER-
(WITH FRAME) FIRE RIFLE
RECEIVER: ROLLED STEEL, POWDER-COAT FINISH
BARREL: STAINLESS STEEL; 1:16" RH TWIST
STOCK: AR-STYLE COLLAPSING BUTTSTOCK
WEIGHT: 6 LBS. (WITHOUT FRAME); 7 LBS., 2 OZS. (WITH FRAME)
MSRP: $499 (AS SHOWN)
SHOOTING RESULTS (100 YDS.): MECH TECH CCU (16.25" BARREL)
.45 ACP VEL. @ 15' ENERGY GROUP SIZE (INCHES)
CARTRIDGE (F.P.S.) (FT.-LBS.) SMALLEST LARGEST AVERAGE
SIG SAUER V-CROWN 968 AVG. 479 1.74 2.82 2.35
230-GR. JHP 12 SD
NOTES: MEASURED AVERAGE VELOCITY FOR 10 ROUNDS OVER AN OEHLER MODEL 36
CHRONOGRAPH AT 15 FT. ACCURACY FOR FIVE CONSECUTIVE, FIVE-SHOT GROUPS AT 100 YDS.
FROM A CHAMPION RIFLE REST. TEMPERATURE: 64 F. HUMIDITY: 65%. ABBREVIATIONS: JHP
(JACKETED HOLLOW POINT), SD (STANDARD DEVIATION).
SHOOTING RESULTS (25 YDS.): COLT COMPETITION (5" BARREL)
.45 ACP VEL. @ 12' ENERGY GROUP SIZE (INCHES)
CARTRIDGE (F.P.S.) (FT.-LBS.) SMALLEST LARGEST AVERAGE
SIG SAUER V-CROWN 839 AVG. 360 1.43 2.30 1.91
230-GR. JHP 14 SD
NOTES: MEASURED AVERAGE VELOCITY FOR 10 ROUNDS OVER AN OEHLER MODEL 35P
CHRONOGRAPH AT 12 FT. ACCURACY FOR FIVE CONSECUTIVE, FIVE-SHOT GROUPS AT 25 YDS.
FROM A RANSOM REST. TEMPERATURE: 65 F. HUMIDITY: 26%. ABBREVIATIONS: JHP
(JACKETED HOLLOW POINT), SD (STANDARD DEVIATION).
In order to function and accuracy through the CCU and found that the
test the Mech Tech CCU, we installed longer barrel of the rifle did manage
it atop a Colt Competitionthe to squeeze a little extra velocity out
same serial number used in American of the .45 ACP cartridge. Through the
Riflemans review of that model 16" barrel, the 230-gr. V-Crowns
in August 2016 (p. 48). Through produced 968 f.p.s. and 479 ft.-lbs.
approximately 400 rounds, the CCU of energy, up from the 839 f.p.s. and
did not exhibit any failures to func- 360 ft.-lbs. exhibited by the same load
tion. We elected to conduct accuracy from a 5" pistol barrel. The ballistic
testing using an ammunition load that gains achieved through the CCU could
had previously been shot through the be expected to be even more pro-
gun during its prior evaluationSIGs nounced when chambered in higher-
V-Crown 230-gr. jacketed hollow point. pressure cartridges.
With help from a Bushnell AR For fans of the M1911, Mech
Optics 1-4X 24 mm scope, we followed Techs CCU represents a paperwork-
our protocol of firing five consecu- free accessory that grants improved
tive, five-shot groups through the terminal ballistics in a platform that
unit. Taking advantage of the host is familiar to, yet easier to shoot well,
guns 4-lb., 4-oz. trigger pull, the CCU than their favorite pistol. Given the
managed a solid average group size level of accuracy and reliability that
of 2.35" at 100 yds.not much worse we encountered during our test-
than the Colt Competition had man- ing of the CCU, it is easy to see why
aged with that load at 25 yds. (1.91") someone already in possession of a
while still configured as a handgun. compatible host handgun would find
We also chronographed SIGs load such a product appealing.
AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017 85
KEL-TEC
continued from p. 58
To find the optimal position, start by turning the cap
10 clicks from the bottommost, fully tightened position.
Then load one round and fire with a now-empty maga-
zine installed. If that fails to lock the action back, apply
a clockwise click to the cap and repeat until the action
locks back on its own power, then add two more clicks.
To test the rifle with a suppressor, I found that the cap
needed to be backed all the way off, then tightened down
(clockwise) five turns. In that position, the RFB functioned
reliably with a Dead Air Sandman-S suppressor installed.
Another huge plus of both bullpups is their respective
use of universally standard magazines. The RFB relies on
FAL-type magazines of the metric pattern. As such, one
can readily find suitable 5-, 10- and 20-round magazines
if the provided polymer 20-rounder (made by Thermold
Magazines USA) isnt sufficient. Seating the magazine in
the RFB doesnt require rocking; rather a straight push does
it; likewise, an easy tug straight down while depressing the
magazine release lever allows its removal from the well.
The RDB uses AR-style magazines that are as common as tat-
toos at Sturgis. It ships with one 30-round Gen M3 PMAG, but I
tried various metal and plastic mags, and all of them worked.
Notable of both the RFB and RDBs trigger systems, as any
bullpup design mandates, the trigger/hammer linkage spans
a long gap created by the magazine well without blocking
it. Kellgren accomplished this on the RFB by fabricating a
metal trigger-linkage box that outlines the magazine well
rather than running down its middle. A bar on its rear runs
through the skeletonized hammer that is pinned underneath
it to provide a pivot point so it can cock and strike the firing
pin. Of course, the hammer is located in the extreme rear of
the entire rifle and, as such, requires a special cutout within
the buttstock to accommodate its movement. Its powered
by twin springs located ahead of the magazine well that
are stretched by the bolts rearward travel and locked back
as the sear bar is captured by the trigger sear. A roll-type
safety rests on the sear bar. The RDB accomplishes the same
thing by way of trigger linkage bars that serpentine along
each side of the receiver walls before connecting to the
mousetrap-esque, U-shaped hammer.
Both the RFB and RDBs triggers are polymer. Although
theyre surprisingly light in pull weight (5 lbs., 7 ozs. and
4 lbs., 9 ozs., respectively), they both contained some
creep. While the RFBs trigger is great for a bullpup that
has such long linkages, and certainly much better than
typical AKs or FALsits not as light and clean as many
ARs. At the time of this writing, Kellgren informed me
that the trigger springs have been replaced and the sear
surfaces have been smoothed in its latest shipments. He
assures me that the triggers now feel better than those of
the early units I tested.
To test performance, I mounted a 2-7X 36 mm Zeiss
Terra riflescope on the RFB and an EOTech red-dot sight
and 4X coupler on the RDB. I fired 300 rounds through
each gun, during which time I noted many failures to feed
when switching between brands of ammunition; but each
time, after adjusting the gas regulator, all cartridges fired
86 FEBRUARY 2017
and cycled properly. Only twice each did the rifles jam due
to a non-gas-related error, such as a double feed.
Neither gun was a tack-drivernor were they expected
to beand both guns groups spread as their barrels heated
during rapid fire. I averaged 2.54" groups at 100 yds. with
the 7.62 mm, and 2.88" groups with the 5.56 mm using
three types of ammunition for each rifle. Recoil, even in the
7.62 mm RFB, was mild thanks to a long bolt travel and the
rifles 8-lb., 8-oz.-loaded heft, but muzzle flip due to the
weight-back design was significant while shooting from a
benchrest where the support hand does not work to anchor
the barrel. When shooting from the bench, I drew two solid
conclusions: 1.) The RDBs downward ejection is not ideal for
benchrest and prone work because it makes the use of a rear
bag difficult, and hot brass can pile around the rear elbow.
2.) The .308 Win. RFB needs a softer cheekpiece.
I quickly familiarized myself with both guns controls,
and grew fond of the RDBs magazine release location. The
guns polymer exoskeleton stocks incorporate many features
molded directly into them such as attachment points for
bilateral slings. The RDB features a full-length rail molded
to the underside of the fore-gripseemingly a no-brainer
thats perfect for a flashlight or a vertical fore-end. The
RFBs fore-end is flared, Schnabel-like and discourages fin-
gers from contacting a hot barrel. This is a very compact gun
and so reaching far out on the fore-end is natural.
While there are many opinions levied on balance, I
offer that on rifles of this sort, balance matters very little.
The RDB and RDF bullpups are balanced in the literal sense.
Their balance points reside on the pistol grip, or the center
of the gun. This results in a rifle that feels different than
most whose balance point is somewhere along the fore-end.
After getting accustomed to this weight-back feel, there
are some advantages. Namely, because less weight is on
the front end, these bullpups are easy to hold, aim and fire
with one handsomething I cant easily do with a typical
AR-10, especially during extended range use. Certainly the
overall shorter length is a huge benefit both in compact-
ness and in carrying while slung on the chest because the
barrel does not extend past the knees.
While I was somewhat skeptical of these radical designs
from Kel-Tec, I now adore both guns, and I appreciate this
innovative maker of affordable firearms more than I previ-
ously did. After all, Im a giant fan of any 20-round, .308
rifle that can be kept fully assembled in a tennis racket case.
Before shooting extensively, I thought Id like the simpler
RDB betterthat only uses one rearward motion of the bolt
to eject the round downwardbut frankly theres no down-
side to the RFBs forward ejection. Its nifty. Both guns are
extremely solid in design and function.
Kel-Tecs bullpups are practical and compact rifles that
shoot equally great from either side. Whether the company
makes enough of them to satisfy demand remains to be seen.
Regardless, I give Kellgren and Kel-Tec props for doing some-
thing different, and doing it well. But I want to know, does
the company intend to release more, er, hounds in the future?
Oh yes, Derek said, emphatically.
AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
THE CHINESE TOKAREV
continued from p. 63
number. If the same serial number system applies to these
pistols as with other Chinese small arms, then the pistols
with serial numbers beginning with 11 were made in 1964
and those starting with 12 were made in 1965.
A few examples of unmarked early production Type
54 pistols have been observed. One has the thicker frame
that is seen on some Type 51s. The serial number on
observed specimens starts with either a 2 or a 3, indicat-
ing they were probably produced in 1955 and 1956. What
makes these pistols unique is that they lack the Chinese
characters and date stamping that is found on other
Chinese military pistols. The serial number on the frame
and slide are the only external marking. The history and
use of these pistols is not known. This variation has not
been described previously.
Wartime And Commercial Use
Surprisingly, very little is actually known about the
distribution and use of the Type 51 and Type 54 in the
Chinese military. Period photographs are virtually unknown
and sources in English are quite limited, thus reliable infor-
mation is hard to come by.
China apparently supplied the North Vietnamese with
a significant number of Type 54s that were used in the
Vietnam War. Most Chinese military Type 54s in the United
States were captured during the war and were brought back
by returning servicemen. The Type 54 was a coveted war
trophy. Some pistols have the capture paperwork with
them, which firmly establishes their provenance. Many
pistols show blue wear and pitting due to the effects of the
humid climate. However, bores are typically in excellent
condition since most are chrome-lined.
Many Chinese Tokarevs were imported into the United
States from the late 1980s until about 1994 when the
importation of some arms from China was banned due
to sanctions. Pistols were imported by several different
companies including China Sport Industries (CSI, Ontario,
Calif.), Navy Arms Co. (NAC, Ridgefield, N.J.), B-West
(Tucson, Ariz.), K Sports Imports (KSI, Pomona, Calif.),
Sportarms (Miami, Fla.), ACC Int./Intrac (Knoxville,
Tenn.) and Interstate Arms Corporation (IAC, Billerica,
Mass.). The CSI and NAC pistols are most commonly
encountered. These pistols were priced very reasonably,
and many were sold.
A few of the first pistols imported appear to have been
military pistols that were converted for commercial sale by
changing markings and adding an external safety to the
slide or the frame. The safety was required for the pistols
to be imported under the Gun Control Act of 1968. A few
early pistols even have the Chinese characters on the top of
the slide, which clearly indicates the part came from mili-
tary production lines or inventory. Some have the Factory
66 marking by the serial number, but others do not.
Later pistols, especially those chambered in 9 mm Luger,
appear to have been newly manufactured for the U.S. market.
These do not always look the same as the military pistols.
For example, the slide serrations are often angled as opposed
AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG
For importation, some Tokarevs were fitted
with target-style stocks with thumbshelves,
manual safeties and compensated barrels.
to being perpendicular. Some slides and
frames have slightly different contours.
A large number of variations of commercial Chinese
Tokarevs exist. Navy Arms offered several distinct
models. For example, some were sold as dual-caliber
(7.62x25 mm and 9 mm Luger) guns that came with
a spare barrel and magazine. Others had wraparound
grips. A few had a chrome or satin finish that was hoped
to appeal to U.S. firearm buyers. Some magazines had
magazine floorplates with finger extensions.
The commercial Tokarevs were only made in 7.62x25 mm
and 9 mm Luger, although a few aftermarket barrels were
made in .38 Super. The magazines for some 9 mm Tokarevs
were made differently to accept the shorter cartridge, and
some pistols had an insert added to the frame to accommodate
the smaller magazine.
The most common commercial model is the Norinco Model
213 in 9 mm Luger. The Type 54-1 pistols, which were in
7.62x25 mm, were not as popular with U.S. buyers. One
especially interesting variation is the Model 213A chambered
in 9 mm, which has a wider frame to accommodate a wide-
body, higher-capacity magazine that resembles the Browning
High Power magazine. Most pistols came in a foam box with
a light cardboard outer box, but some had a plastic carrying
case, and may have a cleaning rod and a spare magazine.
Despite the many configurations, there seems to be
limited collector interest in commercial Tokarevs. Many
do not like the added safety and the import markings,
which change the appearance of the pistol. Collectors often
erroneously view Chinese-produced guns as poor quality so
they overlook them, however, there are some real bargains
to be had given the wide number of variations produced.
Enduring Popularity
Unlike the lukewarm interest in commercial Chinese
Tokarevs, military versions of the guns enjoy great popular-
ity within a select group of American collectors and shoot-
ers. Collectors like the multiple variations of the pistols and
their connection to the Vietnam War. Shooters like the pistol
because of its sleek, unencumbered design and the fact that
they are reliable and easy to maintain. The 7.62x25 mm
cartridge is appealing because it shoots well. The large num-
ber of military and commercial Chinese Tokarevs speaks to
the soundness of its basic design. Even though the Tokarev
design is more than 85 years old, it remains iconic due to its
classic lines, simplicity and reliability.
FEBRUARY 2017 87
OFFICIAL JOURNAL
ILA report: Latest legislative news from inside the NRA Institute for Legislative Action
More JAMA Flimflam:
Flawed Study Takes Aim At Stand-Your-Ground Law
T
he Journal of the American Medical
Associations (JAMA) online Internal
Medicine Network recently pub-
lished a study by a team of academics
in England that purports to analyze the
Impact of Floridas Stand-Your-Ground
Self-defense Law on Homicide and Suicide
by Firearm. The authors conclude that
implementation of Floridas stand-your-
ground self-defense law was associated
with a significant increase in homicides
and homicides by firearm but no change in
rates of suicide or suicide by firearm.
Youd think with a conclusion like
that, the study found that the Florida
law actually had a negative impact on
public safety. But youd be wrong. Rather,
this article stands as but another example
of how anti-gun scholars continue to
perpetuate bad science in order to push
their agenda with improper methodol-
ogy, misleading claims and a purposeful
failure to follow base statistical protocols
in conducting an analysis.
This caveat is necessary because the
study completely ignores the essential
Gun Control Group:
Interest in Guns, Music Signals Intention to Murder
S
andy Hook Promise (SHP), an activist
group out of Connecticut, has cre-
ated a heart-tugging public service
announcement (PSA) that it hopes will
capture the publics imagination.
Spoiler alert: SHP is simply another
anti-gun group that wants to marginalize
firearm ownership. The main takeaway
from its PSA is that any young person
who shows an interest in guns should be
treated as a would-be mass killer.
The 2-minute PSA focuses on Evan,
a lonely high school student who finds
himself in an unlikely courtship after he
starts writing on a desk in the school
library. Someone begins answering his
messages, and Evan reawakens to the
world around him, pondering who his
correspondent might be. Finally, he
scrawls, Who are you?? But on the day
88
question of whether the firearm-related
deaths it focuses on arose from unlawful
aggression or lawful self-defense.
The whole point of a stand-your-
ground law, of course, is to give innocent
people who are threatened by unlaw-
ful violence another possible option in
determining how to safely respond. It
negates the mandatory duty to retreat
before resorting to lethal defensive force,
allowing the individual who is actu-
ally subject to the threat to determine
whether retreat or a countermeasure is
the safer option.
While the authors of the JAMA study
likely disagree, if fault and justice have
anything to do with the lawand they
shouldself-defense is not an outcome
to be deplored. Putting the law on the
side of innocent victims is not a flaw of
stand-your-ground laws. Its the point
of them.
In short, because the authors dont
account for the differences between
those homicides that are justifiable
self-defense and those that are not, their
he would presumably read the answer, he
discovers the library has been closed for
the summer. The despondent Evan con-
soles himself with the ritual of signing the
yearbooks being passed out in the school
gym. A pretty young classmate recognizes
his handwriting from the desk, however,
and reveals herself to be the secret mes-
senger on the other side of the conversa-
tion. But their moment is cut short by the
sudden appearance of a classmate in the
doorway, menacingly racking a rifle and
causing the students to flee in terror.
In a final plot twist, the PSA then
lectures its viewers that, while they were
watching Evan, another student was
showing signs of planning a mass shoot-
ing. But no one noticed. It then goes on
to replay the scenes, spotlighting the
signs depicted in the background. They as the guns themselves.
FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN
study fails to provide any real insight on
the effects of the law. This, of course, is by
design. Pushing the biased narrative that
stand-your-ground is problematic is their
point, not whether the law had a positive
or negative impact on public safety.
The authors also incorrectly misla-
beled one of the four states they use as a
comparison group as lacking a stand-
your-ground law, when in fact that state
incorporates the principle in its common
law. In other words, the authors couldnt be
bothered with researching even the most
basic question of which states have stand-
your-ground laws and which do not.
This is often the case where public
health researchers move beyond their
normal field of expertise. The fact that
the authors also fail to control for a host
of other social and economic variables
that likely impact the number of homi-
cides in any given year is further proof of
their general incompetence to answer
a complex research question related to
stand-your-ground laws in Florida or
anywhere else.
consist of another student reading a gun
magazine; putting on his headphones
when approached by another student;
having his headphones ripped off in
the school hallway; looking at a firearm-
related website in the library; and posting
a picture of himself on social medial
pointing a handgun, with a message to
another user, see you at school.
Mixing guns and school on social
media posts could, depending on the
context, justifiably provoke alarm. But
the other supposed signs could just
as easily apply to an introvert with a
completely harmless interest in music
and firearms. To suggest they would
require intervention only shows that SHP
is wholly detached from gun culture and
would just as soon ban interest in guns
Carry Permit Figures Surge in 2016
T
he number of persons in the U.S.
with concealed-carry permits con-
tinues to surge and has reached
an all-time high of 15 million. More than
6 percent of adults in the U.S. have a
permit to carry a concealed weapon; in
10 states, more than 10 percent of adults
hold concealed-carry permits.
This escalation is particularly compel-
ling given the rising number of states
that have adopted permitless con-
cealed-carry laws. With such laws passed
recently in Missouri, West Virginia, Mis-
sissippi and Idaho, 12 states now have
some form of law that allows carrying a
concealed firearm without a state-issued
permit or license.
Yet, contrary to the apprehension and
alarm expressed by gun-control groups,

Photo by NRA Staff

this expansion in permit holders and
permitless carry laws doesnt correlate
with an increase in violent crime. Permit
holders, as a class, tend to be substantially
more law-abiding than the general popu-
lation. The Crime Prevention Research
Center notes that the crime rate for the
general population is 37 times higher
than the rate for police officers, yet con-
cealed-carry permit holders are convicted
of felonies and misdemeanors at less than
a sixth the rate for police officers. Overall,
gun crime victimization is substantially
lower than it was 20 years ago, while the
number of individuals legally carrying
firearms has skyrocketed.
The next milestone? Legislation that
would respect the rights of individuals
who possess concealed-carry permits in
their home state, or who are not prohib-
ited from carrying concealed in their home
state, to exercise those rights in any other
state. The concept of national reciprocity of
carry permits has been formally endorsed
by President Donald Trump, and U.S.
Rep. Richard Hudson, R-N.C., has already
announced plans to push forward a Con-
cealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017 when
the new Congress meets next year.

IN MEMORY NRA-ILA CONTRIBUTIONS

November 1, 2016 November 30, 2016
Edward King Jr., Bloomington, IL (from: Jon W. Goembel); Wesley Gunter, Sanford, NC (from: Earnest & Lauren Sitton); Dr. David G. Goodchild, Madison, GA
(from: Dr. William S. Bolton); John L. Oldham, Pacific Junction, IA (from: Jeanette E. Schlichtemeier, and Gilbert & Deborah Stewart); Richard L. Coppock, Omak,
WA (from: Bonnie Coppock, LaRhonda McCauley, and Dan & Eileen French); Jim Stiles (from: Washington Arms Collectors); Leslie A. Desterhouse, Omaha, NE
(from: Ray Braniff & Family, Charlie & Diane Hackmann, Robert Walter, Wally & Anita Murphy and Family, Tim & Ruth Ryberg, Jimmy & Sue Lee and Family, Jim & Sally
James, and Larry & Sue Wittich); Frank E. Barnyak and Mary Barnyak, Sun Valley, CA (from: The Biniszkiewicz Family and Robert Huff); Bill L. Schurkens, Tulsa, OK
(from: Dana Smith and Ron Gill); Manning P. Miller, Bolivar, MO (from: The Tilley Family); Jerome (Jerry) Roach, Salmon, ID (from: Patrick Rafferty); John Wooden,
Rochester, NY (from: Ronald Carafice); Billy Truett, Defuniak Springs, FL (from: Bryan Truett); Gary Rausser, Galt, CA (from: Antonio & Mary Cabral); Eugene Kaplan,
Atlanta, GA (from: Linda C. Kaplan)

ILA CONTRIBUTIONS
(The following have contributed $1,000.00 or more to the NRA Institute for Legislative Action: November 1, 2016 November 30, 2016)
Richard E. Cooks, Cincinnati, OH; Laurie J. Landeau, Northport, NY; Friends of Seamus McCaffery, Philadelphia, PA; Edward J. Reske, Huntsville, AL;
John B. Webber, Fort Lauderdale, FL; Arden R. Batchelder, Bend, OR; Rock Island Auction Co., Rock Island, IL; Davidsons, Prescott, AZ; Turners Operations Inc.,
Cucamonga, CA; Calvin H. Sugg, San Angelo, TX; Merwin J. Ray, Naples, FL; James Mahan, Wilmington, NC; Universal Coin & Bullion Ltd., Beaumont, TX;
Brady for Congress, The Woodlands, TX; Mariano Macias, Coral Gables, FL; Harry Shaw, Clinton, NC; Wilderness Road Shooting and Conservation Club,
Gate City, VA; O.F. Mossberg & Sons Inc., North Haven, CT; Justin S. Menzia, Watertown, MI; Duane Benson, Bishop, CA; Lynn G. Nolte, Colorado Springs,
CO; William Biniszkiewicz, Buffalo, NY; Blue Acorn Inc., Charleston, SC; Dennis Dunham, Wellsville, NY; Beverly Forte, Morristown, NJ; Donald S. Goering,
Houston, KS; Richard A. Skelton, Graysville, AL; Edward J. Reske, Huntsville, AL; H.S. Rosenbush, Salt Lake City, UT; Ryan D. Zakopyko, Spokane, WA;
Ellis S. East, Benson, AZ; Martin V. Fitzgerald, McCall, ID; Frank Gavitt, Flower Mound, TX; Walter Obermeier, Cranberry Township, PA; Robert J. Hauboldt,
Brookfield, WI; James Klinghoffer, Longport, NJ; Beverly Weidendorf, Farmington, MI; Diane H. Davis, Penngrove, CA; Brad Kruger, Sandpoint, ID;
Kenneth D. Raymond, Laingsburg, MI; Fred Hovenier, Corona, CA; William Harvie, Santee, CA; William Polk, Harlingen, TX; Palmer McArthur, Charlotte, NC;
Sheila Ingram, Paradise Valley, AZ; Sallie P. Kramer, St. Louis, MO; NW Montana Arms Collectors, Kalispell, MT; Josef J. Priller, Melbourne, FL; Cape
Radiology Group, Cape Girardeau, MO.

IL A G ra ssro o t s: ( 8 0 0 ) 3 9 2 - 8 6 8 3 NR A- I L A : ( 703) 267-1170 NR A- I L A web s i te: nr aila. org

AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017 89

OFFICIAL JOURNAL

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Shooting Illustrated and Americas 1st Freedom. The Regional Report is an up-to-date listing of NRA conducted and/or at (703) 267-1459 or mkramer@nrahq.org. For a complete
sponsored events scheduled in your region for the current month. Call to verify event dates and locations before traveling. listing, see shootingsportsusa.com.

90 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

 gunshows
FEB. 3-4 EAU CLAIRE, WI FEB. 10-12 CHILLICOTHE, MO FEB. 18-19 KANSAS CITY, MO
Best Western Trail Lodge Convention Center, Bearing BPOE Lodge 656, Chillicothe Elks Lodge KCI Expo Center, R.K. Shows Inc. (563) 927-8176
Arms Gun Shows (715) 308-8772 (816) 686-3667
FEB. 18-19 MADISON, IN
FEB. 3-5 MASON, MI FEB. 10-12 RED OAK, IA National Guard Armory, Tri-State Gun and Knife
Ingham County Fairgrounds, Sport Shows Montgomery County Fairgrounds, Southwest Iowa Collectors (812) 521-9367
Promotions (517) 676-4160 Gun Shows (712) 621-8026
FEB. 18-19 NOVI, MI
FEB. 3-5 CEDAR RAPIDS, IA FEB. 11 ALPENA, MI The Suburban Collection Showplace, Sport Shows
Hawkeye Downs Speedway & Expo Center, Knights of Columbus Hall, PJs Promotions LLC Promotions (517) 676-4160
Tradeshow Productions (888) 552-1486 (989) 789-8709
FEB. 18-19 VALPARAISO, IN
FEB. 11-12 COLUMBUS, IN
FEB. 3-5 WEST BEND, WI Porter County Expo Center, Dunes Rifle & Pistol Club
Bartholomew County 4-H Fairgrounds, Tri-State Gun
Washington County Fairgrounds, Bob and Roccos (219) 942-4514 *
and Knife Collectors LLC (812) 521-9367
Gun Shows (608) 752-6677
FEB. 11-12 ST. JOSEPH, MO FEB. 18-19 HUNTINGBURG, IN
FEB. 4 JOLIET, IL St. Joseph Civic Arena, RJ Promotions (816) 676-1200 Huntingburg Event Center, Holland Kiwanis Club
Joliet Moose Lodge, The Cloe Group LLC (812) 536-5252
(815) 263-2810 FEB. 11-12 SEDALIA, MO
Missouri State Fairgrounds, R.K. Shows Inc. FEB. 18-19 ST. IGNACE, MI
FEB. 4-5 ST. CHARLES, MO (563) 927-8176 Kewadin Casino, J&J Sport Shows (800) 968-5016
St. Charles Convention Center, Midwest Arms
FEB. 11-12 MONROE, MI FEB. 18-19 CAVE CITY, KY
Collectors LLC (660) 341-7908
Monroe County Fairgrounds, Sport Shows Cave City Convention Center, S/T Promotions
FEB. 4-5 JOPLIN, MO Promotions (517) 676-4160 (270) 622-2185
Joplin Convention & Trade Center, R.K. Shows Inc. FEB. 11-12 ANN ARBOR, MI FEB. 24-25 MARSHFIELD, WI
(563) 927-8176 Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, Huron Gun Oak Avenue Community Center, B2 Shooters
Collectors (517) 546-4710 (715) 687-4741
FEB. 4-5 EFFINGHAM, IL
Knights of Columbus, ECA Hunting & Trade Shows. FEB. 11-12 ALLIANCE, NE FEB. 24-26 BARRON, WI
(618) 495-2572 American Legion & The Eagles Club, Alliance Rifle Barron Area Community Center, Bob and Roccos
Club (308) 762-7922 Gun Shows (608) 752-6677
FEB. 4-5 BEATRICE, NE
Gage County Fairgrounds, Beatrice Optimist Club FEB. 11-12 COLUMBUS, NE
FEB. 24-26 ARCHIE, MO
eric_book@yahoo.com Platte County Agricultural Park, Columbus Rifle Club
Archie Community Center, Adrian Elks Lodge 2864
(402) 730-0140
(660) 679-1360
FEB. 4-5 TIPTON, IN
Tipton County Fairgrounds, Tipton Gun Shows LLC FEB. 11-12 KOKOMO, IN
FEB. 25-26 LEBANON, MO
(765) 675-6886 Ivy Tech Conference Center, Central Indiana Gun
Cowan Civic Center, R.K. Shows Inc. (563) 927-8176
Shows (765) 855-3836
FEB. 4-5 LAFAYETTE, IN FEB. 25-26 FORT DODGE, IA
FEB. 12 ST. CHARLES, IL
Tippecanoe County Fairgrounds, Central Indiana Webster County Fairgrounds-4H Building, Rifle &
Kane County Fairgrounds, Kane County Sportsmans
Gun Shows (765) 855-3836 Pistol Club of Fort Dodge (515) 570-0827
Show (815) 758-2773
FEB. 4-5 NOVI, MI FEB. 17-18 IRON RIVER, WI FEB. 25-26 GRAND RAPIDS, MI
Suburban Collection Showplace, Michigan Antique Iron River Community Center, Ray Kangas 28th Street Showplace, Sport Shows Promotions
Arms Collectors (248) 348-5600 Productions (715) 372-4654 (517) 676-4160
FEB. 5 WHEATON, IL FEB. 17-18 CURTISS, WI FEB. 25-26 SHIPSHEWANA, IN
DuPage County Fairgrounds, Pioneer Valley Sports- El Norteno Banquet Center, Bearing Arms Gun Shipshewana Town Center, CPI Shows
mans Assn. (630) 365-2808 Shows (715) 308-8772 (260) 483-6144

FEB. 10-11 SOLON SPRINGS, WI FEB. 17-19 OSHKOSH, WI FEB. 25-26 BLOOMINGTON, IL
Solon Springs Community Center, Ray Kangas Sunnyview Exposition Center, Bob and Roccos Gun Interstate Center, ECA Hunting & Trade Shows
Productions (715) 372-4654 Shows (608) 752-6677 (618) 495-2572

FEB. 10-12 FRANKLIN, WI FEB. 18-19 NEW BERLIN, IL FEB. 26 ALTA VISTA, IA
Milwaukee County Sports Complex, Bob and Sangamon County Fairgrounds, Central Illinois Gun Alta Vista Hall, Elma Sportsmens Club
Roccos Gun Shows (608) 752-6677 Collectors (217) 416-0618 (641) 220-1290

Dates and locations subject to changecontact the show before traveling. Discounted NRA membership sold through NRA recruiters.
*Some shows may offer free admission for new membership and renewals. To become an NRA Recruiter call (703) 267-3776.

at refuse@nrahq.org or by phone at association listed here, or log on to Michigan Rifle and Pistol Assn.
(800) 861-1166. clubs.nra.org. michrpa.org
FEB. 4ELMHURST, IL Missouri Sport Shooting Assn.
(Seminar) Patrick Jones (773) 983-1526 Illinois State Rifle Assn. Inc. missourisportshooting.org
isra.org
FEB. 19OAK FOREST, IL
Nebraska Marksmanship Assn.
(Seminar) David Lyon (708) 745-0734 Indiana State Rifle and Pistol Assn. Inc. nemarksmanship.org
isrpa.org
Wisconsin Firearm Owners, Ranges, Clubs &
STATE ASSOCIATIONS Iowa State Rifle and Pistol Assn.
iasrpa.org
Educators
wi-force.org

F or more information about your

state association, contact your state
League of Kentucky Sportsmen Inc.
kentuckysportsmen.com

AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017 91

OFFICIAL JOURNAL

regional report east

2017 NRA ANNUAL MEETINGS APRIL 2830 ATLANTA, GA
For hotel accommodations at the NRA Annual Meetings, visit nraam.org

Eastern PA, DEKory Enck Gun Owners Of New Hampshire Inc.

kenck@nrahq.org gonh.org

Western PATom Baldrige Assn. Of New Jersey Rifle & Pistol Clubs Inc.
anjrpc.org

F riends of NRA events celebrate tbaldrige@nrahq.org

American values with fun, fellowship New York State Rifle & Pistol Assn. Inc.
Eastern VA, Eastern MD, Washington, DC nysrpa.org
and fundraising for The NRA Foundation. David Wells
Youll have the opportunity to participate in dwells@nrahq.org Ohio Rifle & Pistol Assn.
games, raffles, live and silent auctions and orpa.net
more. Your attendance contributes to grants Western VA, Western MD, WVJim Kilgore
jkilgore@nrahq.org Pennsylvania Rifle & Pistol Assn.
that promote firearm education, safety and
pennarifleandpistol.org
marksmanship. To learn more about events
in your area, visit friendsofnra.org, contact Rhode Island 2nd Amendment Coalition
your local field representative or email
friends@nrahq.org.
STATE ASSOCIATIONS ri2nd.org
Vermont Federation Of Sportsmens Clubs Inc.

Eastern Region DirectorBryan Hoover

bhoover@nrahq.org
F or more information about your
state association, contact your state
association listed here, or log on to
vtfsc.org
Virginia Shooting Sports Assn.
myvssa.org
clubs.nra.org.
Northern OHMarc Peugeot West Virginia State Rifle & Pistol Assn.
mpeugeot@nrahq.org Connecticut State Rifle & Revolver Assn. wvasrpa.org
csrra.com
Southern OHBryan Hoover
bhoover@nrahq.org Delaware State Sportsmens Assn.
dssa.us
LAW ENFORCEMENT
ME, VT, NHBrian Smith
bsmith@nrahq.org

NJ, MA, RI, CT & Southern NY

(Maine) Pine Tree State Rifle
& Pistol Assn. Inc.
mainerpa.org
P ublic and private officers interested in
becoming firearm instructors should
attend one of NRAs Law Enforcement
Andrew J. Peden
Maryland State Rifle & Pistol Assn.
apeden@nrahq.org
msrpa.org areashoots
New YorkJay Rusnock Goal (Massachusetts) PISTOL
jrusnock@nrahq.org goal.org ROCHESTER, NY FEB. 4
CANTON, OH FEB. 5
MANCHESTER, CT FEB. 11-12
Member information & benefits NRA Headquarters: (703) 267-1000 ANNVILLE, PA
WARREN, OH
FEB. 18
FEB. 19
MEMBERSHIP ACCOUNT INFORMATION: (877) 672-2000 INTERNET ADDRESS: nra.org
CHESTER, NY FEB. 25
MEMBER SERVICE (800) 672-3888 OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT/ CHESAPEAKE, VA FEB. 25-26
GIFT PLANNING 877-NRA-GIVE SHARON, MA FEB. 26
NRAstore.com (888) 607-6007 THE NRA FOUNDATION 800-423-6894 SMALLBORE RIFLE
NRA INSTRUCTOR/ ROTTERDAM, NY FEB. 4
MEMBER PROGRAMS COACH FIREARM TRAINING 703-267-1500
Hertz Car Rental CDP# 166609 (800) 654-2200 RIDGEWOOD, NJ FEB. 25-26
EDDIE EAGLE GUNSAFE PROGRAM 800-231-0752
AVIS Car Rental AWD# A832100 (800) 225-7094 REFUSE TO BE A VICTIM 800-861-1166 AUBURN, ME FEB. 26
NRA Endorsed Insurance Programs (877) 672-3006 RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS 703-267-1511
NRA Endorsed Prescription Plan (888) 436-3700 HIGH POWER RIFLE
NRA AFFILIATED CLUBS 800-NRA-CLUB GRAFTON, VA FEB. 18
NRA Endorsed Check Program (888) 331-6767
NRA VISA Card (866) NRA-VISA RANGE SERVICES 877-672-7264 GREENVILLE, PA FEB. 25
NRA Real Estate/Relocation Services (800) 593-2526 COMPETITIVE SHOOTING 877-672-6282
NRA Endorsed Moving Program LAW ENFORCEMENT 703-267-1640 SILHOUETTE
North American Van Lines (800) 524-5533 FRIENDS OF NRA 703-267-1342 SUFFOLK, VA FEB. 5
Allied Van Lines (800) 871-8864 NRA MUSEUMS/ MANSFIELD, PA FEB. 12
GUN COLLECTOR PROGRAMS 703-267-1600 SUDLERSVILLE, MD FEB. 18
INSTITUTE FOR LEGISLATIVE ACTION SHOWS & EXHIBITS 866-343-1805
MONTOURSVILLE, PA FEB. 25
Grassroots/Legislative Hotline (800) 392-8683 MEDIA RELATIONS 703-267-1595
The NRA Regional Report, a service for NRA members, appears in every issue of American Rifleman, American Hunter, For more information, contact Shelly Kramer
Shooting Illustrated and Americas 1st Freedom. The Regional Report is an up-to-date listing of NRA conducted and/or at (703) 267-1459 or mkramer@nrahq.org. For a complete
sponsored events scheduled in your region for the current month. Call to verify event dates and locations before traveling. listing, see shootingsportsusa.com.

90 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

 gunshows
FEB. 3-4 MINERAL WELLS, WV FEB. 11-12 MANASSAS, VA FEB. 18-19 HARRISONBURG, VA
Mineral Wells Community Building, On Target Shows Prince William County Fairgrounds, Southeastern Rockingham County Fairgrounds, C&E Gun Shows
LLC (304) 488-5851 Guns & Knives (757) 483-5385 (540) 953-0016
FEB. 3-5 ST. ALBANS, WV FEB. 11-12 PARKERSBURG, WV FEB. 18-19 MONACA, PA
Former Value City, Firepower Gun Show National Guard Armory, R&R Gun & Knife Shows Turner Center, Tri-State Gun & Sportsman Show
(304) 989-2898 (304) 575-6895 (740) 944-1404
FEB. 4 MILAN, OH
FEB. 11-12 MEDINA, OH FEB. 18-19 FREMONT, OH
Erie County Conservation League, Erie County
Medina County Fairgrounds, Conrad & Dowell Sandusky County Fairgrounds, Sandusky County
Conservation League (419) 271-5047
Productions (330) 948-4400 Hawkeyes (419) 680-5442
FEB. 4-5 WEST FRIENDSHIP, MD
Howard County Fairgrounds, Silverado Gun Shows FEB. 11-12 NASHUA, NH FEB. 24-25 BARBOURSVILLE, WV
(301) 874-5012 Radisson Hotel, Northeast Expositions Cabell County 4-H Camp, Cabin Fever Gun, Knife
(603) 621-0700 and Coins Shows (304) 942-7609
FEB. 4-5 VIRGINIA BEACH, VA
Virginia Beach Convention Center, Southeastern FEB. 11-12 JEFFERSONVILLE, OH FEB. 24-26 FISHERSVILLE, VA
Guns & Knives (757) 483-5385 Jeffersonville Crossing, JS Shows Limited Augusta Expo, Western Virginia Sport Show Inc.
(614) 523-7767 (540) 337-7018
FEB. 4-5 MAXWELTON, WV
National Guard Armory, R&R Gun & Knife Shows FEB. 11-12 CLARENCE, NY FEB. 25-26 WESTONS MILLS, NY
(304) 575-6895 Clarence Event Building, Niagara Frontier Gun Westons Mills Community Center, Kinney Hose
FEB. 4-5 LANCASTER, PA Shows (716) 542-9929 Company (716) 258-8145
Lancaster Farm and Home Center, Lancaster FEB. 11-12 ALLENTOWN, PA FEB. 25-26 DOSWELL, VA
Muzzleloading Rifle Assn. (717) 368-4653 Allentown Fairgrounds Agri-Plex, Forks of the The Meadow Event Park, Southeastern Guns &
FEB. 4-5 LIMA, OH Delaware Historical Arms Society Inc. Knives (757) 483-5385
Allen County Fairgrounds, Tri-State Gun Collectors (610) 438-9006
(419) 647-0067 FEB. 25-26 MOUNDSVILLE, WV
FEB. 11-12 COLUMBUS, OH West Virginia Penitentiary, Tri-State Gun &
FEB. 4-5 SHARONVILLE, OH Ohio Buckeye Center & State Fairgrounds, Sportsman Show (740) 944-1404
Sharonville Convention Center, Bill Goodmans Gun Showmasters Gun Shows (540) 951-1344
& Knife Shows (502) 538-3900 FEB. 25-26 EAST CANTON, OH
FEB. 18-19 CAMBRIDGE, OH Foltz Community Center, Heritage Gun Shows
FEB. 4-5 MONROEVILLE, PA Pritchard Laughlin Civic Center, Heritage Gun Shows (330) 806-1110 *
Monroeville Convention Center, Showmasters Gun (330) 806-1110 *
Shows (540) 951-1344 FEB. 25-26 RIDGWAY, PA
FEB. 18-19 WEST LEBANON, NH Ridgway Rifle Club, Ridgway Rifle Club
FEB. 4-5 FOXBORO, MA Fireside Inn, DiPrete Promotions (603) 225-3846 (814) 773-3237
Demetris Function Facility, New Mart Productions
(914) 248-1000 FEB. 18-19 WHITE RIVER JUNCTION, VT FEB. 25-26 SELLERSVILLE, PA
Connecticut Valley Auto Auction Building, Green Forest Lodge VFW, Commonwealth Target Co.
FEB. 4-5 WIND GAP, PA Mountain Gun & Knife Show (802) 875-4540 (570) 640-0144
Plainfield Fire Company, Eagle Arms Productions
(610) 393-3047 FEB. 18-19 MIDDLETOWN, NY FEB. 25-26 DAYTON, OH
Orange County Fairgrounds, Newmart Promotions Montgomery County Fairgrounds, Bill Goodmans
FEB. 4-5 MARIETTA, OH
(914) 248-1000 Gun & Knife Shows (502) 538-3900
Washington County Fairgrounds, Front Sight
Promotions (740) 667-0412 FEB. 18-19 BLOOMSBURG, PA FEB. 25-26 MEDINA, NY
FEB. 5 ALEXANDER, NY Bloomsburg Fairgrounds, Eagle Arms Productions Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Department, Niagara
Alexander Firemans Recreation Hall, Niagara Frontier (610) 393-3047 Frontier Gun Shows (716) 542-9929
Gun Shows (716) 542-9929
FEB. 18-19 MONTPELIER, OH FEB. 25-26 LANCASTER, OH
FEB. 10-12 CHANTILLY, VA Williams County Fairgrounds, Stateline Gun Show Fairfield County Fairgrounds, JS Shows Unlimited
Dulles Expo Center, C&E Gun Shows (540) 953-0016* (419) 737-2801 (614) 523-7767

FEB. 10-12 OAKS, PA FEB. 18-19 DILLSBURG, PA FEB. 25-26 STURBRIDGE, MA

Greater Philadelphia Oaks Expo Center, Eagle Arms Monaghan Township Fire Hall, Central Pennsylvania Sturbridge Host Hotel Conference Center, New Mart
Productions (610) 393-3047 Antique Arms Collectors russs350@aol.com Productions (914) 248-1000
Dates and locations subject to changecontact the show before traveling. Discounted NRA membership sold through NRA recruiters.
*Some shows may offer free admission for new membership and renewals. To become an NRA Recruiter call (703) 267-3776.

Firearms Instructor Development Schools,

designed to enhance the instructors
firearm knowledge and handling skills,
as well as prepare them to develop
effective training programs, instruct
in a professional manner, and conduct
practical training exercises.Restricted to
law enforcement officers only.
FEB. 27MAR. 3ALLISON PARK, PA
(Handgun/Shotgun)
Contact rwarter@nrahq.org
or (703) 267-1638
TRAINING
Crime Prevention
T he NRAs Refuse To Be A Victim
program provides men and women
with crime prevention and personal
safety strategies. To learn more about the
program, visit refuse.nra.org. The most
up-to-date schedule is available on the FEB. 11KILMARNOCK, VA
Internet at nrainstructors.org, by email (Seminar) Robert Heller (804) 410-5905
at refuse@nrahq.org or by phone at FEB. 12ASHAWAY, RI
(800) 861-1166. (Seminar) Lyd Neugent (401) 377-8184

AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017 91

OFFICIAL JOURNAL

regional report midwest

2017 NRA ANNUAL MEETINGS APRIL 2830 ATLANTA, GA
For hotel accommodations at the NRA Annual Meetings, visit nraam.org

F riends of NRA events celebrate
American values with fun, fellowship
and fundraising for The NRA Foundation.
Youll have the opportunity to participate in
games, raffles, live and silent auctions and
more. Your attendance contributes to grants
that promote firearm education, safety and
marksmanship. To learn more about events
in your area, visit friendsofnra.org, contact
your local field representative or email
friends@nrahq.org.
Midwest Region DirectorTom Ulik This Silver Stag knife
tulik@nrahq.org commemorates the heroism
displayed after the attacks on
ARErica Willard Sept. 11, 2001. A World Trade Center
ewillard@nrahq.org steel medallion is set into the deer or
COBrad Dreier elk antler handle, which also sports
bdreier@nrahq.org engravings of a memorial quote and the
Friends of NRA logo. This limited-edition
KSChristine Sharp
csharp@nrahq.org knife comes with a sheath and a box.

NMKevin Post
kpost@nrahq.org Western TXJack Cannon attend one of NRAs Law Enforcement
OKDarren DeLong jcannon@nrahq.org Firearms Instructor Development Schools,
ddelong@nrahq.org designed to enhance the instructors
Northern TXTerry Free
tfree@nrahq.org
LAW ENFORCEMENT firearm knowledge and handling skills,
as well as prepare them to develop
Southern TXLiz Foley
efoley@nrahq.org P ublic and private officers interested in
becoming firearm instructors should
effective training programs, instruct
in a professional manner, and conduct

Member information & benefits NRA Headquarters: (703) 267-1000

MEMBERSHIP ACCOUNT INFORMATION: (877) 672-2000 INTERNET ADDRESS: nra.org areashoots
MEMBER SERVICE (800) 672-3888 OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT/ PISTOL
GIFT PLANNING 877-NRA-GIVE
NRAstore.com (888) 607-6007 THE NRA FOUNDATION 800-423-6894 DENVER, CO FEB. 25
NRA INSTRUCTOR/ DAVIS, OK FEB. 25
MEMBER PROGRAMS COACH FIREARM TRAINING 703-267-1500
Hertz Car Rental CDP# 166609 (800) 654-2200 SMALLBORE RIFLE
EDDIE EAGLE GUNSAFE PROGRAM 800-231-0752
AVIS Car Rental AWD# A832100 (800) 225-7094 REFUSE TO BE A VICTIM 800-861-1166 SALINA, KS FEB. 5
NRA Endorsed Insurance Programs (877) 672-3006 RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS 703-267-1511 ROSENBURG, TX FEB. 12
NRA Endorsed Prescription Plan (888) 436-3700 NRA AFFILIATED CLUBS 800-NRA-CLUB DAVIS, OK FEB. 18
NRA Endorsed Check Program (888) 331-6767
NRA VISA Card (866) NRA-VISA RANGE SERVICES 877-672-7264 HIGH POWER RIFLE
NRA Real Estate/Relocation Services (800) 593-2526 COMPETITIVE SHOOTING 877-672-6282
CARTHAGE, TX FEB. 4
NRA Endorsed Moving Program LAW ENFORCEMENT 703-267-1640
FRIENDS OF NRA 703-267-1342 FRIENDSWOOD, TX FEB. 11
North American Van Lines (800) 524-5533
Allied Van Lines (800) 871-8864 NRA MUSEUMS/ SILHOUETTE
GUN COLLECTOR PROGRAMS 703-267-1600 NEW BRAUNFELS, TX FEB. 12
INSTITUTE FOR LEGISLATIVE ACTION SHOWS & EXHIBITS 866-343-1805
CARROLLTON, TX FEB. 25
Grassroots/Legislative Hotline (800) 392-8683 MEDIA RELATIONS 703-267-1595
The NRA Regional Report, a service for NRA members, appears in every issue of American Rifleman, American Hunter, For more information, contact Shelly Kramer
Shooting Illustrated and Americas 1st Freedom. The Regional Report is an up-to-date listing of NRA conducted and/or at (703) 267-1459 or mkramer@nrahq.org. For a complete
sponsored events scheduled in your region for the current month. Call to verify event dates and locations before traveling. listing, see shootingsportsusa.com.

90 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

 gunshows
FEB. 3-6 FARMINGTON, NM FEB. 11-12 HOUSTON, TX FEB. 18-19 DENVER, CO
San Juan County Fairgrounds, San Juan Wildlife NRG Arena, Houston Gun Collectors Assn. Denver Merchandise Mart, Tanner Gun Shows
Federation (505) 860-4903 (713) 981-6463 (303) 756-3467
FEB. 4-5 LAWTON, OK FEB. 11-12 MCALLEN, TX FEB. 24-25 CAVE CITY, AR
Great Plains Coliseum, Oklahoma Gun Shows McAllen Convention Center, Saxet Trade Shows Cave City First Assembly of God Church, Cave City
(918) 955-1092 (361) 289-2256 * First Assembly of God Church (870) 283-2999
FEB. 4-5 HILLSBORO, TX FEB. 11-12 ALBUQUERQUE, NM FEB. 25-26 ABILENE, TX
Hill County Fairgrounds, Whipp Farm Productions New Mexico Fairground, Rocky Mountain Gun Taylor County Expo, Silver Spur Trade Shows
(817) 929-1816 Shows (801) 589-0975 (806) 253-1322
FEB. 4-5 LEWISVILLE, TX FEB. 18-19 PASADENA, TX FEB. 25-26 CLEBURNE, TX
Premier Events CenterLakeland Plaza, Premier Pasadena Convention Center, Premier Gun Shows Liberty Events Center, Whipp Farm Productions
Gun Shows (817) 732-1194 (817) 732-1194 (817) 929-1816
FEB. 4-5 SAN ANTONIO, TX FEB. 18-19 MESQUITE, TX FEB. 25-26 CORPUS CHRISTI, TX
San Antonio Events Center, Saxet Trade Shows Big Town Event Center, Premier Gun Shows Richard M. Borchard Regional Fairgrounds, Saxet
(361) 289-2256 * (817) 732-1194 Trade Shows (361) 289-2256 *
FEB. 4-5 PASADENA, TX FEB. 25-26 TEMPLE, TX
FEB. 18-19 SAN ANTONIO, TX
Pasadena Convention Center, High Caliber Gun & Mayborn Convention Center, Lone Star Gun Shows
Austin Highway Event Center, Austin Highway
Knife Shows (281) 489-1741 (214) 635-2009
Events (210) 242-3683
FEB. 4-5 MIDLAND, TX FEB. 25-26 KINGSLAND, TX
FEB. 18-19 ENNIS, TX
Midland Horseshoe, Silver Spur Trade Shows Kingsland Community Center, Wild Weasel
Sokol Lodge, Whipp Farm Productions
(806) 253-1322 Productions (210) 827-6302
(817) 929-1816
FEB. 11-12 MCALESTER, OK FEB. 25-26 HOUSTON, TX
Southeast Expo Center, Oklahoma Gun Shows FEB. 18-19 DRIPPING SPRINGS, TX George R. Brown Convention Center- Exhibit Hall B3,
(918) 955-1092 Ranch Park, Saxet Trade Shows (361) 289-2256 * Premier Gun Shows (817) 732-1194
FEB. 11-12 ALTUS, OK FEB. 18-19 AMARILLO, TX FEB. 25-26 ABILENE, TX
Altus Community Center, Badshot Gun Show LLC Amarillo Civic Center, Pioneer Gun Collectors Taylor County Expo, Silver Spur Trade Shows
(405) 503-3665 (806) 378- 4297 (806) 253-1322
FEB. 11-12 FORT SMITH, AR FEB. 18-19 BRENHAM, TX FEB. 25-26 HOT SPRINGS, AR
Kay Rodgers Park, Hanging Judge Productions Brenham Fireman Center, Real Texas Gun Show Garland County Fairgrounds, G&S Promotions
(479) 858-9079 (713) 724-8881 (918) 659-2201
FEB. 11-12 LOVELAND, CO FEB. 18-19 NACOGDOCHES, TX FEB. 25-26 LAS CRUCES, NM
The Ranch Events Complex, Tanner Gun Shows Nacogdoches County Exposition Center, G&S Las Cruces Convention Center, Sunrise Lions Club
(303) 756-3467 Promotions (918) 659-2201 (575) 571-3045
FEB. 11-12 FORT WORTH, TX FEB. 18-19 ARANSAS PASS, TX FEB. 25-26 GARDEN CITY, KS
Amon Carter Exhibit HallWill Rogers Center, Aransas Pass Civic Center, Gulf Coast Gun Shows Finney County Fairgrounds, Sand & Sage Rifle &
Premier Gun Shows (817) 732-1194 (254) 485-3698 Pistol Club (620) 276-7520

Dates and locations subject to changecontact the show before traveling. Discounted NRA membership sold through NRA recruiters.
*Some shows may offer free admission for new membership and renewals. To become an NRA Recruiter call (703) 267-3776.

practical training exercises.Restricted to FEB. 11GRAND JUNCTION, CO

law enforcement officers only. (Seminar)
Guy Masterson (970) 270-3203
STATE ASSOCIATIONS
FEB. 6-10GARDEN PLAIN, KS
(Patrol Rifle)
FEB. 6-10ABILENE, TX
FEB. 11GRAND JUNCTION, CO
(Instructor Development Workshop)
Guy Masterson (970) 270-3203
F or more information about your
state association, contact your state
association listed here, or log on to
(Handgun/Shotgun)
FEB. 16SAN ANTONIO, TX clubs.nra.org.
Contact Mary Shine at (703) 267-1628 or (Seminar)
mshine@nrahq.org. Ken Lewis (210) 737-7233 Arkansas Rifle & Pistol Assn.
FEB. 17SAN ANTONIO, TX arpa-online.org
TRAINING (Instructor Development Workshop)
Ken Lewis (210) 256-9627
Colorado State Shooting Assn.
cssa.org
Crime Prevention FEB. 18OVERLAND PARK, KS

T he NRAs Refuse To Be A Victim (Seminar) Kansas State Rifle Assn.

Michael Catsimanes ksraweb.org
program provides men and women
with crime prevention and personal overlandtg@gmail.com
New Mexico Shooting Sports Assn. Inc.
safety strategies. To learn more about the FEB. 25HOUSTON, TX nmssa.org
program, visit refuse.nra.org. The most (Seminar)
Joe Woolley (281) 467-4792 Oklahoma Rifle Assn. Inc.
up-to-date schedule is available on the
oklarifle.com
Internet at nrainstructors.org, by email FEB. 25HOUSTON, TX
at refuse@nrahq.org or by phone at (Instructor Development Workshop) Texas State Rifle Assn.
(800) 861-1166. Joe Woolley (281) 467-9792 tsra.com

AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017 91

OFFICIAL JOURNAL

regional report south

2017 NRA ANNUAL MEETINGS APRIL 2830 ATLANTA, GA
For hotel accommodations at the NRA Annual Meetings, visit nraam.org

F riends of NRA events celebrate

American values with fun, fellowship
and fundraising for The NRA Foundation.
Youll have the opportunity to participate in
games, raffles, live and silent auctions and
more. Your attendance contributes to grants
that promote firearm education, safety and
marksmanship. To learn more about events
in your area, visit friendsofnra.org, contact
your local field representative or email
friends@nrahq.org.
This Silver Stag knife commemorates
the heroism displayed after the attacks
on Sept. 11, 2001. A World Trade Center
steel medallion is set into the deer or elk antler
handle, which also sports engravings of a memorial
quote and the Friends of NRA logo. This limited-
edition knife comes with a sheath and a box.

Southern Region DirectorAl Hammond Western NCDoug Merrill as well as prepare them to develop
ahammond@nrahq.org rmerrill@nrahq.org effective training programs, instruct
LAChad Bowen TNMike Webb in a professional manner, and conduct
cbowen@nrahq.org mwebb@nrahq.org practical training exercises.Restricted to
AL, MSGene Newman SCFreeman Coleman law enforcement officers only.
gnewman@nrahq.org fcoleman@nrahq.org
FEB. 6-10OZARK, AL
Northern FLBret Eldridge (Handgun/Shotgun)
peldridge@nrahq.org
LAW ENFORCEMENT FEB. 13-17SOPCHOPPY, FL
Southern FLTom Knight (Handgun/Shotgun)
tknight@nrahq.org
GANeely Raper
P ublic and private officers interested in
becoming firearm instructors should
attend one of NRAs Law Enforcement
FEB. 27-MAR. 3FLORENCE, AL
(Handgun/Shotgun)
nraper@nrahq.org FEB. 27-MAR. 3SOPCHOPPY, FL
Firearms Instructor Development Schools,
designed to enhance the instructors (Precision Rifle)
Eastern NCGarland Tra Storey
gstorey@nrahq.org firearm knowledge and handling skills, Contact Rudis Amaya at (703) 267-1636
or ramaya@nrahq.org.
Member information & benefits NRA Headquarters: (703) 267-1000
MEMBERSHIP ACCOUNT INFORMATION: (877) 672-2000 INTERNET ADDRESS: nra.org areashoots
MEMBER SERVICE (800) 672-3888 OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT/ PISTOL
GIFT PLANNING 877-NRA-GIVE
NRAstore.com (888) 607-6007 THE NRA FOUNDATION 800-423-6894 JACKSONVILLE, FL FEB. 19
NRA INSTRUCTOR/ SMALLBORE RIFLE
MEMBER PROGRAMS COACH FIREARM TRAINING 703-267-1500
Hertz Car Rental CDP# 166609 (800) 654-2200 HOLLYWOOD, FL FEB. 11
EDDIE EAGLE GUNSAFE PROGRAM 800-231-0752
AVIS Car Rental AWD# A832100 (800) 225-7094 REFUSE TO BE A VICTIM 800-861-1166 TITUSVILLE, FL FEB. 11-12
NRA Endorsed Insurance Programs (877) 672-3006 RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS 703-267-1511
NRA Endorsed Prescription Plan (888) 436-3700 HIGH POWER RIFLE
NRA AFFILIATED CLUBS 800-NRA-CLUB LAKELAND, FL FEB. 5
NRA Endorsed Check Program (888) 331-6767
NRA VISA Card (866) NRA-VISA RANGE SERVICES 877-672-7264 LAKELAND, TN FEB. 11
NRA Real Estate/Relocation Services (800) 593-2526 COMPETITIVE SHOOTING 877-672-6282
GASTON, SC FEB. 12
NRA Endorsed Moving Program LAW ENFORCEMENT 703-267-1640
FRIENDS OF NRA 703-267-1342 WOODVILLE, FL FEB. 19
North American Van Lines (800) 524-5533
Allied Van Lines (800) 871-8864 NRA MUSEUMS/ GONZALES, LA FEB. 26
GUN COLLECTOR PROGRAMS 703-267-1600 SILHOUETTE
INSTITUTE FOR LEGISLATIVE ACTION SHOWS & EXHIBITS 866-343-1805
HOOVER, AL FEB. 4
Grassroots/Legislative Hotline (800) 392-8683 MEDIA RELATIONS 703-267-1595
The NRA Regional Report, a service for NRA members, appears in every issue of American Rifleman, American Hunter, For more information, contact Shelly Kramer
Shooting Illustrated and Americas 1st Freedom. The Regional Report is an up-to-date listing of NRA conducted and/or at (703) 267-1459 or mkramer@nrahq.org. For a complete
sponsored events scheduled in your region for the current month. Call to verify event dates and locations before traveling. listing, see shootingsportsusa.com.

90 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

 gunshows
FEB. 4-5 FORT MYERS, FL FEB. 11-12 NORTH FORT MYERS, FL FEB. 18-19 GROVETOWN, GA
Lee Civic Center, Florida Gun Shows Lee Civic Center, Florida Sportsman Magazine Columbia County Exhibition Center, Eastman Gun
(407) 410-6870 (772) 219-7400 Shows (229) 423-4867

FEB. 4-5 FORT PIERCE, FL FEB. 11-12 PANAMA CITY, FL FEB. 18-19 LAFAYETTE, LA
St. Lucie County Fairgrounds, Great American Bay County Fairgrounds, North Florida Gun & Knife Lafayette Event Center, Classic Arms Productions
Promotions (865) 453-0074 Shows (407) 275-7233 (985) 624-8577

FEB. 4-5 MELBOURNE, FL FEB. 11-12 WEST PALM BEACH, FL FEB. 18-19 BILOXI, MS
Melbourne Auditorium, Sport Show Specialists South Florida Fairgrounds, Sport Show Specialists Mississippi Coast Coliseum & Convention Center,
(321) 777-7455 (321) 777-7455 Classic Arms Productions (985) 624-8577

FEB. 4-5 PENSACOLA, FL FEB. 11-12 SLIDELL, LA FEB. 18-19 GREENVILLE, MS

Pensacola Interstate Fair, North Florida Gun & Knife Northshore Harbor Center, Slidell Gun & Knife Show Washington Convention Center, Big Pop Gun Shows
Shows (407) 275-7233 slidellgunandknifeshow@yahoo.com (601) 498-4235

FEB. 4-5 LAKE WALES, FL FEB. 11-12 CHARLOTTE, NC FEB. 18-19 GOLDSBORO, NC
Lake Wales National Guard Armory, Great American Park Expo, Dixie Fun & Knife Show Classic Goldsboro National Guard Armory, S&D Show
Promotions (865) 453-0074 (919) 781-1287 Promotions (252) 745-5647

FEB. 4-5 DALTON, GA FEB. 11-12 GREENVILLE, NC FEB. 18-19 LUMBERTON, NC

Northwest Georgia Trade Center, Mike Kent and Greenville Convention Center, S&D Show Southeastern Ag Center, Dixie Gun & Knife Show
Associates (770) 630-7296 Promotions (252) 463-5647 Classic (919) 781-1287
FEB. 11-12 GREENVILLE, SC FEB. 18-19 KNOXVILLE, TN
FEB. 4-5 MARIETTA, GA
TD Convention Center, South Carolina Arms Kerbela Shriners Temple, Smoky Mountain Gun
Cobb Civic Center, Eastman Gun Shows
Collectors Assn. (803) 462-9377 Collectors Assn. (865) 740-7622
(229) 423-4867
FEB. 11-12 LADSON, SC FEB. 25-26 EUSTIS, FL
FEB. 4-5 HATTIESBURG, MS
Exchange Park Fairgrounds, Mike Kent and Lake County Fairgrounds- Eustis, FL, Sport Show
Forrest County Multi-Purpose Center, Great
Associates (770) 630-7296 Specialists (321) 777-7455
Southern Gun & Knife Shows (865) 671-4757
FEB. 11-12 GRAY, TN FEB. 25-26 TAMPA, FL
FEB. 4-5 FAYETTEVILLE, NC Appalachian Fairgrounds, R.K. Shows Inc. Florida State Fairgrounds, Florida Gun Shows
Crown Center, C&E Gun Shows (540) 953-0016 (563) 927-8176 (407) 410-6870
FEB. 4-5 SALISBURY, NC FEB. 11-12 NASHVILLE, TN FEB. 25-26 BOSSIER CITY, LA
West End Plaza, Salisbury Gun & Knife Show Tennessee State Fairgrounds, Bill Goodmans Gun & Bossier City Civic Center, Classic Arms Productions
(704) 798-6162 Knife Shows (502) 538-3900 (985) 624-8577
FEB. 4-5 WILMINGTON, NC FEB. 18-19 AVON PARK, FL FEB. 25-26 JACKON, MS
Wilmington National Guard Armory, S&D Show Avon Park National Guard Armory, Great American Mississippi State Fair Commission, Great Southern
Promotions (252) 745-5647 Promotions (865) 453-0074 Gun & Knife Shows (865) 671-4757
FEB. 4-5 GERMANTOWN, TN FEB. 18-19 FORT WALTON BEACH, FL FEB. 25-26 CONCORD, NC
Agricenter International Park, R.K. Shows Inc. Northwest Florida Fairgrounds, North Florida Gun & Cabarrus Arena & Events Center, C&E Gun Shows
(563) 927-8176 Knife Shows (407) 275-7233 (540) 953-0016
FEB. 10-12 POMPANO BEACH, FL FEB. 18-19 LAKELAND, FL FEB. 25-26 CRYSTAL RIVER, FL
Pompano Beach Elks Lodge, Old Timey Productions Lake Mirror Complex, Florida Arms & Sportsman National Guard Armory, Dons Fabulous Crystal River
(786) 543-5115 Show (813) 541-3478 Gun Show (352) 422-3461

FEB. 11-12 MUSCLE SHOALS, AL FEB. 18-19 MIAMI, FL FEB. 25-26 LEBANON, TN
North Alabama State Fairgrounds, VPI Gun Shows Miami-Dade Fairgrounds, Florida Gun Shows Wilson County Expo Center, Bill Goodmans Gun &
(256) 381-0506 (407) 410-6870 Knife Shows (502) 538-3900

Dates and locations subject to changecontact the show before traveling. Discounted NRA membership sold through NRA recruiters.
*Some shows may offer free admission for new membership and renewals. To become an NRA Recruiter call (703) 267-3776.

FEB. 18FORT MYERS, FL Georgia Sport Shooting Assn.

TRAINING (Seminar) James Price
yogawithsylvia@comcast.net
gssainc.org

Crime Prevention Louisiana Shooting Assn.

FEB. 25FORT MYERS, FL
louisianashooting.com
T he NRAs Refuse To Be A Victim
program provides men and women
with crime prevention and personal
(Seminar) James Price
sandyroyal@wcicommunities.com
Mississippi State Firearm Owners Assn.
601-341-8797msgo.com
safety strategies. To learn more about the
program, visit refuse.nra.org. The most STATE ASSOCIATIONS North Carolina Rifle & Pistol Assn.
up-to-date schedule is available on the ncrpa.org
Internet at nrainstructors.org, by email
at refuse@nrahq.org or by phone at F or more information about your
state association, contact your state
association listed here, or log on to
Gun Owners of South Carolina
gosc.org
(800) 861-1166.
clubs.nra.org.
FEB. 4FREEPORT, FL
Tennessee Shooting Sports Assn. Inc.
(Seminar) Kenneth Geis (312) 230-6171 Alabama Rifle and Pistol Assn.
tennesseeshootingsportsassociation.org
jmoses1936@gmail.com
FEB. 12ACWORTH, GA
(Seminar) Timothy Shannon Florida Sport Shooting Assn.
(770) 421-0071 fssaf.wildapricot.org

AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017 91

OFFICIAL JOURNAL

regional report southwest

2017 NRA ANNUAL MEETINGS APRIL 2830 ATLANTA, GA
For hotel accommodations at the NRA Annual Meetings, visit nraam.org

F riends of NRA events celebrate

American values with fun, fellowship
and fundraising for The NRA Foundation.
Youll have the opportunity to participate in
games, raffles, live and silent auctions and
more. Your attendance contributes to grants
that promote firearm education, safety and
marksmanship. To learn more about events
in your area, visit friendsofnra.org, contact
your local field representative or email
friends@nrahq.org.

Southwest Region DirectorJason Quick

jquick@nrahq.org
This Silver Stag knife
commemorates the heroism
AZWinston Pendleton displayed after the attacks on
wpendleton@nrahq.org Sept. 11, 2001. A World Trade Center
steel medallion is set into the deer or
Mid CABob Anderson elk antler handle, which also sports
randerson@nrahq.org engravings of a memorial quote and the
Friends of NRA logo. This limited-edition
Central CAPaul Rodarmel knife comes with a sheath and a box.
prodarmel@nrahq.org

Northern CADan Wilhelm

dwilhelm@nrahq.org Eastern CACole Beverly UTJim Reardon
cbeverly@nrahq.org jreardon@nrahq.org
Southern CAMike Davis NVSteve Wilson
mdavis@nrahq.org swilson@nrahq.org

Member information & benefits

MEMBERSHIP ACCOUNT INFORMATION: (877) 672-2000
NRA Headquarters: (703) 267-1000
INTERNET ADDRESS: nra.org
areashoots
MEMBER SERVICE (800) 672-3888 OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT/ SMALLBORE RIFLE
GIFT PLANNING 877-NRA-GIVE
NRAstore.com (888) 607-6007 THE NRA FOUNDATION 800-423-6894 S. EL MONTE, CA FEB. 4-5
NRA INSTRUCTOR/
MEMBER PROGRAMS COACH FIREARM TRAINING 703-267-1500 HIGH POWER RIFLE
Hertz Car Rental CDP# 166609 (800) 654-2200 EDDIE EAGLE GUNSAFE PROGRAM 800-231-0752
AVIS Car Rental AWD# A832100 (800) 225-7094 SEELEY, CA FEB. 4
REFUSE TO BE A VICTIM 800-861-1166
NRA Endorsed Insurance Programs (877) 672-3006 RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS 703-267-1511 IMPERIAL VALLEY, CA FEB. 5
NRA Endorsed Prescription Plan (888) 436-3700 NRA AFFILIATED CLUBS 800-NRA-CLUB PHOENIX, AZ FEB. 11-12
NRA Endorsed Check Program (888) 331-6767
NRA VISA Card (866) NRA-VISA RANGE SERVICES 877-672-7264
NRA Real Estate/Relocation Services (800) 593-2526 COMPETITIVE SHOOTING 877-672-6282 SILHOUETTE
NRA Endorsed Moving Program LAW ENFORCEMENT 703-267-1640
FRIENDS OF NRA 703-267-1342 SLOUGHHOUSE, CA FEB. 4
North American Van Lines (800) 524-5533
Allied Van Lines (800) 871-8864 NRA MUSEUMS/ BURNEY, CA FEB. 5
GUN COLLECTOR PROGRAMS 703-267-1600 MESA, AZ FEB. 19
INSTITUTE FOR LEGISLATIVE ACTION SHOWS & EXHIBITS 866-343-1805
PHOENIX, AZ FEB. 26
Grassroots/Legislative Hotline (800) 392-8683 MEDIA RELATIONS 703-267-1595
The NRA Regional Report, a service for NRA members, appears in every issue of American Rifleman, American Hunter, For more information, contact Shelly Kramer
Shooting Illustrated and Americas 1st Freedom. The Regional Report is an up-to-date listing of NRA conducted and/or at (703) 267-1459 or mkramer@nrahq.org. For a complete
sponsored events scheduled in your region for the current month. Call to verify event dates and locations before traveling. listing, see shootingsportsusa.com.

90 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

 STATE ASSOCIATIONS gunshows
FEB. 3-4 PLACERVILLE, CA FEB. 18-19 SONORA, CA

F or more information about your

state association, contact your state
association listed here, or log on to
El Dorado Fairgrounds, Buck Stop Gun Shows,
(530) 622-9486
Mother Lode Fairgrounds, Buck Stop Gun Shows
(530) 622-9486
FEB. 18-19 TURLOCK, CA
FEB. 3-4 SIERRA VISTA, AZ
clubs.nra.org. Windemere Hotel, Arizona Collectibles & Firearms Stanislaus County Fairgrounds, Code of the West
(928) 310-8544 Gun Shows (530) 676-8762

Arizona State Rifle & Pistol Assn. FEB. 18-19 VICTORVILLE, CA

FEB. 4-5 LAS VEGAS, NV
San Bernardino Fairgrounds, Glendale Gun Show
asrpa.com Cashman Field Center, Midwest Arms Collectors
(619) 997-4154
LLC (660) 341-7908
California Rifle & Pistol Assn. FEB. 18-19 TUCSON, AZ
crpa.org FEB. 4-5 SANDY, UT Tucson Expo, AZ Gun Radio (650) 520-6002
South Towne Expo Center, Crossroads of the West
Nevada Firearms Coalition Gun Shows (801) 544-9125 FEB. 18-19 DIXON, CA
nvfac.org Dixon Fairgrounds, Dixon Gun Show (916) 542-8010
FEB. 11-12 SAN JOSE, CA
Utah State Rifle & Pistol Assn. Santa Clara County Fairgrounds, Code of the West FEB. 18-19 ST. GEORGE, UT
Gun Shows (530) 676-8762 Dixie Center, Crossroads of the West Gun Shows
larryscanlan@msn.com (801) 544-9125
FEB. 11-12 SANTA BARBARA, CA
Earl Warren Showgrounds, Santa Barbara Historical FEB. 18-19 FRESNO, CA
Arms Assn. (805) 646-6290 Fresno County Fairgrounds, Central Coast Gun
Shows (805) 481-6726
FEB. 11-12 VENTURA, CA FEB. 25-26 PHOENIX, AZ
Ventura County Fairgrounds, Crossroads of the West Arizona State Fairgrounds, Crossroads of the West
Gun Shows (801) 544-9125 Gun Shows (801) 544-9125
FEB. 11-12 CASA GRANDE, AZ FEB. 25-26 RENO, NV
Holiday Inn, Western Collectibles & Firearms Reno-Sparks Convention Center, Crossroads of the
(928) 848-0070 West Gun Shows (801) 544-9125

FEB. 18-19 CHICO, CA FEB. 25-26 LAS VEGAS, NV

Silver Dollar Fairgrounds, SECO Gun Shows The Sport Center, OKC Gun Show Inc.
(530) 591-3379 (800) 333-4867

Dates and locations subject to changecontact the show before traveling. Discounted NRA membership sold through NRA
recruiters. *Some shows may offer free admission for new membership and renewals. To become an NRA Recruiter call (703) 267-3776.

AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017 91

OFFICIAL JOURNAL

regional report west

2017 NRA ANNUAL MEETINGS APRIL 2830 ATLANTA, GA
For hotel accommodations at the NRA Annual Meetings, visit nraam.org

F riends of NRA events celebrate

American values with fun, fellowship
and fundraising for The NRA Foundation.
Youll have the opportunity to participate in
games, raffles, live and silent auctions and
more. Your attendance contributes to grants
that promote firearm education, safety and
marksmanship. To learn more about events
in your area, visit friendsofnra.org, contact
your local field representative or email
friends@nrahq.org.

Western Region DirectorBrad Kruger

bkruger@nrahq.org This Silver Stag knife
commemorates the heroism
MNEric Linder displayed after the attacks on
elinder@nrahq.org Sept. 11, 2001. A World Trade Center
steel medallion is set into the deer or
ND, SDDoug DeLaRoi elk antler handle, which also sports
ddelaroi@nrahq.org engravings of a memorial quote and the
Friends of NRA logo. This limited-edition
Northern AKJosh Toennessen knife comes with a sheath and a box.
jtoennessen@nrahq.org

Southern AKGreg Stephens MTJoe Crismore WAMichael Herrera

gstephens@nrahq.org jcrismore@nrahq.org mherrera@nrahq.org

IDSteve Vreeland OR, HIMike Carey WYDave Manzer

svreeland@nrahq.org mcarey@nrahq.org dmanzer@nrahq.org

Member information & benefits NRA Headquarters: (703) 267-1000

MEMBERSHIP ACCOUNT INFORMATION: (877) 672-2000 INTERNET ADDRESS: nra.org

areashoots
MEMBER SERVICE (800) 672-3888 OFFICE OF ADVANCEMENT/
GIFT PLANNING 877-NRA-GIVE
NRAstore.com (888) 607-6007 THE NRA FOUNDATION 800-423-6894
NRA INSTRUCTOR/ PISTOL
MEMBER PROGRAMS COACH FIREARM TRAINING 703-267-1500
Hertz Car Rental CDP# 166609 (800) 654-2200 HONOLULU, HI FEB. 11
EDDIE EAGLE GUNSAFE PROGRAM 800-231-0752
AVIS Car Rental AWD# A832100 (800) 225-7094 REFUSE TO BE A VICTIM 800-861-1166 WADENA, MN FEB. 12-13
NRA Endorsed Insurance Programs (877) 672-3006 RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS 703-267-1511 PORTLAND, OR FEB. 19
NRA Endorsed Prescription Plan (888) 436-3700 NRA AFFILIATED CLUBS 800-NRA-CLUB BOISE, ID FEB. 26
NRA Endorsed Check Program (888) 331-6767 SMALLBORE RIFLE
NRA VISA Card (866) NRA-VISA RANGE SERVICES 877-672-7264
NRA Real Estate/Relocation Services (800) 593-2526 COMPETITIVE SHOOTING 877-672-6282 LANDER, WY FEB. 4
NRA Endorsed Moving Program LAW ENFORCEMENT 703-267-1640 SANDPOINT, ID FEB. 18
North American Van Lines (800) 524-5533 FRIENDS OF NRA 703-267-1342 GRAND FORKS, ND FEB. 19
Allied Van Lines (800) 871-8864 NRA MUSEUMS/ SILHOUETTE
GUN COLLECTOR PROGRAMS 703-267-1600 SHERWOOD, OR FEB. 4
INSTITUTE FOR LEGISLATIVE ACTION SHOWS & EXHIBITS 866-343-1805
Grassroots/Legislative Hotline (800) 392-8683 MEDIA RELATIONS 703-267-1595 EATONVILLE, WA FEB. 12

The NRA Regional Report, a service for NRA members, appears in every issue of American Rifleman, American Hunter, For more information, contact Shelly Kramer
Shooting Illustrated and Americas 1st Freedom. The Regional Report is an up-to-date listing of NRA conducted and/or at (703) 267-1459 or mkramer@nrahq.org. For a complete
sponsored events scheduled in your region for the current month. Call to verify event dates and locations before traveling. listing, see shootingsportsusa.com.

90 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN

 STATE ASSOCIATIONS
F or more information about your
state association, contact your state
association listed here, or log on to
clubs.nra.org.
Alaska Outdoor Council Inc.
alaskaoutdoorcouncil.org
Hawaii Rifle Assn.
hawaiirifleassociation.org
Idaho State Rifle & Pistol Assn.
idahosrpa.org
Minnesota Rifle & Revolver Assn. Inc.
mrra.org
Montana Rifle & Pistol Assn.
mtrpa.org
North Dakota Shooting Sports Assn.
ndssa.org
Oregon State Shooting Assn.
ossa.org
South Dakota Shooting Sports Assn.
sdshootingsports.org
Washington State Rifle & Pistol Assn. Inc.
wsrpa.org
Wyoming State Shooting Assn. Inc.
wyossa.com

gunshows
FEB. 4 CARSON, WA FEB. 11-12 ST. HELENS, OR FEB. 18-19 PIERRE, SD
American Legion Post 137, Cascade Sportsmans Columbia County Event Complex, Collectors West Ramkota River Centre, Dakota Territory Gun
Club (509) 951-6733 (800) 659-3440 Collectors Assn. (605) 280 2438
FEB. 4-5 MORTON, MN FEB. 11-12 TACOMA, WA
FEB. 18-19 REDMOND, OR
Jackpot Junction Casino, Minnesota Weapons Marymount Event Center, Big Top Promotions
Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center, Wes Knodel
Collectors Assn. (612) 721-8976 (425) 422-5114
Gun Shows (503) 363-9564
FEB. 4-5 GRANTS PASS, OR FEB. 11-12 CENTRAILIA, WA
Josephine County Fairgrounds, Collectors West Southwest Washington Fairgrounds, Wes Knodel FEB. 25-26 HILLSBORO, OR
(800) 659-3440 Gun Shows (503) 363-9564 Washington County Fair Complex, Collectors West
(800) 659-3440
FEB. 4-5 LACEY, WA FEB. 11-12 PORT ANGELES, WA
Thurston County Fairgrounds, Big Top Promotions Port Angeles Masonic Temple, Falcon Productions
(425) 422-5114 (360) 770-1575 FEB. 25-26 MEDFORD, OR
Medford Armory, Wes Knodel Gun Shows
FEB. 4-5 PUYALLUP, WA FEB. 11-12 SIOUX FALLS, SD (503) 363-9564
Western Washington Fairgrounds, Washington Arms Sioux Falls Conventions Center, Dakota Territory Gun
Collectors (425) 255-8410 Collectors Assn. (605) 268-0254 FEB. 25-26 POST FALLS, ID
Greyhound Park & Event Center, Lewis Clark Trader
FEB. 4-5 ABERDEEN, SD FEB. 18-19 HASTINGS, MN (208) 746-5555
Ramkota Hotel, Dakota Territory Gun Collectors Hastings Armory, Crocodile Productions
Assn. (701) 336-7533 (763) 754-7140
FEB. 25-26 DEERWOOD, MN
FEB. 11 MOSCOW, ID FEB. 18-19 PORTLAND, OR Deerwood Auditorium, Deerwood Civic &
Latah County Fairgrounds, Lewis Clark Trader Portland Metropolitan Exposition Center, Collectors Commerce (218) 330-7804
(208) 746-5555 West (800) 659-3440
FEB. 25-26 ANOKA, MN
FEB. 11 VANCOUVER, WA FEB. 18-19 MONROE, WA
Anoka Armory, Crocodile Productions
Clark County Square Dance Center, Arms Collectors Evergreen State Fairgrounds, Washington Arms
(763) 754-7140
of Southwest Washington (360) 263-7511 Collectors (425) 255-8410
FEB. 11-12 TWIN FALLS, ID FEB. 18-19 ENUMCLAW, WA FEB. 26 PORTLAND, OR
Twin Falls County Fairgrounds, Lewis Clark Trader Enumclaw Expo Center, Big Top Promotions Jackson Amory, Oregon Arms Collectors
(208) 746-5555 (253) 228-5114 (503) 254-5986

Dates and locations subject to changecontact the show before traveling. Discounted NRA membership sold through NRA recruiters.
*Some shows may offer free admission for new membership and renewals. To become an NRA Recruiter call (703) 267-3776.

AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017 91

OFFICIAL JOURNAL

programs & services

2017 DIRECTOR NOMINATIONS
T
he nominees for election to the NRA Board in 2017
have been selected by the Nominating Committee
and by petition of the membership.
The Board consists of 76 Directors. The Bylaws require
that one-third of the terms of office of 75 Directors shall
expire at each Annual Meeting of Members. One Director
is elected for a one-year term at each Annual Meeting of
Members. This Director is selected from the candidates
who were not elected by the mail ballot.
The 2017 election will fill the 25 three-year terms that
expire in 2020 and (because of a death in office) one two-
year term that expires in 2019. Voting members will vote
for a total of 26 candidates. The 25 candidates receiving
the highest number of votes will be elected to three-year
terms and the one candidate receiving the next highest
number of votes will be elected to a two-year term.
Nominations by the Nominating Committee. The
Committee, elected by the Board of Directors, includes
six Directors and three Lifetime members who are not
Directors. The Committee met and gave consideration to
63 names recommended by the membership. Each person
was given serious, deliberate and careful consideration.
Thirty-two candidates were selected.
Nominations by Petition of the Membership. Ten
people were nominated by petition. (Five of the 10 had
already been nominated by the Nominating Committee.)
Each petition sponsored by an NRA member or member
organization required the signatures of not less than 250
voting members.
A total of 37 candidates, the combined total from the
Nominating Committee and petition of the membership,
will appear on the ballot.

1. William H. Allen 14. Kim Rhode Harryman 27. Carl Rowan, Jr.
Memphis, Tennessee Big Bear Lake, California Washington, D.C.

2. Thomas P. Arvas 15. Graham Hill 28. Steven C. Schreiner

Albuquerque, New Mexico Arlington, Virginia Englewood, Colorado

3. Clel Baudler 16. Roy Innis 29. Tom Selleck

Greenfield, Iowa New York, New York Thousand Oaks, California

4. J. Kenneth Blackwell 17. Curtis S. Jenkins 30. Leroy Sisco

Cincinnati, Ohio Forsyth, Georgia Boerne, Texas

5. Dan Boren 18. Adam Kraut 31. N. Stephanie Spika

Edmond, Oklahoma West Chester, Pennsylvania Alexandria, Virginia

6. David Carruth 19. Richard L. Kussman 32. Stephen D. Stamboulieh

Dallas, Texas Stewartstown, Pennsylvania Canton, Mississippi

7. Ted W. Carter 20. Willes K. Lee 33. Robert A. Unkovic

Jacksonville, Florida Honolulu, Hawaii Greensburg, Pennsylvania

8. Patricia A. Clark 21. Sean Maloney 34. Linda Walker

Newtown, Connecticut Liberty Township, Ohio Newark, Ohio

9. Allan D. Cors 22. Robert E. Mansell 35. Howard J. Walter

McLean, Virginia Winslow, Arizona Flat Rock, North Carolina

10. Charles L. Cotton 23. Lance Olson 36. Heidi E. Washington

Friendswood, Texas Marengo, Iowa East Lansing, Michigan

11. John L. Cushman 24. Melanie Pepper 37. Eric Wright

Patchogue, New York Houston, Texas Richmond, California

12. R. Lee Ermey 25. Peter J. Printz

Palmdale, California Hamilton, Montana

13. James S. Gilmore III 26. Todd J. Rathner

Alexandria, Virginia Tucson, Arizona

92 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN


Dustin Lynch
is
Photo by Ford Fairchild
W
ith three consecutive No. 1s,
two Top Five albums, platinum-
level sales and back-to-back
summers on one of the biggest tours in
country music,Dustin Lynch has been
on a steady path toward superstardom.
Now, with the release of Seein Red
from his upcoming third album, he is
shifting into high gear.Lynch will be
In Memoriam
Don Bernard Kates Jr.
D
on Bernard Kates Jr., a key advo-
cate of a persons right to own
firearms, passed away recently
at the age of 75.
Kates was involved in the proceed-
ings at the Court of Appeals level
leading to the 2008 Supreme Court
case District of Columbia v. Heller, which
confirmed an individuals right to keep
and bear arms.
Don Kates played a leading role
in formulating this argument in the
highest circles of legal academia and
stimulated other highly regarded legal
experts to further build this body of
law all of which lead to the majority
opinion in the Heller case, said James
W. Porter, past president of the NRA.
joining NRA Country as the headline
performer at this years Great American
Outdoor Show on Feb. 11 in Harrisburg,
Pa. Visit nracountry.com for ticket
information.
NRA Countrys Vanessa Shahidi recently
caught up with Lynch to talk about his
love of hunting and the outdoors.
It was Kates three decades of work
preceding that case that made the Heller
decision possible, added Dave Kopel,
research director at the Independence
Institute and an adjunct law profes-
sor at the University of Denver, calling
Kates essential to the revival of the
Second Amendment in modern
American law.
Kates wrote or contributed to mul-
tiple legal articles and books, including
published works with Florida State
University criminology professor Gary
Kleck that made arguments against gun
control. But Kopel, Kleck and Porter all
cited Kates 1983 Michigan Law Review
article as the linchpin for todays fire-
arms freedom.
AMERICANRIFLEMAN.ORG FEBRUARY 2017
VS: What is your favorite hunt or outdoor
memory of the past year?
DL: I got to take my dad down to Texas
for his birthday to do a little deer hunt-
ing. He got his first Texas buck and his
largest of his life so far!
VS: If you have a favorite personal
firearm, what is it?
DL: Ive not had the chance to shoot it
yet, but my good buddy gifted me an
over/under Beretta recently. Its beautiful.
VS: Was there anyone particular who
taught you about or shared their love of
the outdoors with you growing up?
DL: My dad and granddad introduced
me to the great outdoors at a very young
age. Im blessed to get to hunt and fish
with them still to this day.
NRA Country is a lifestyle and a bond
between the country music community
and hard-working Americans every-
where. Its powered by pride, freedom,
love of country, respect for the military,
and the responsibilities of protecting
the great American life. For more infor-
mation visit nracountry.com, follow on
twitter @NRACountry, and NRA_Country
on Instagram.
Along with Stephen Halbrook, Robert
Dowlut, David Caplan and others, Don
transformed thinking about the meaning
of the Second Amendment, changing legal
scholars view of the amendment from that
of a curious 18th-century anachronism
into a constitutional provision that had
to be taken seriously in the 20th and 21st
centuries, Kleck said.
Besides his Second Amendment work,
Kates provided legal aid to the poor,
mostly involving issues of civil rights and
police misconduct.
Although we did not agree on every
issue, I always found him to be intellectually
honest in a field where that simple attribute
was sadly scarce. I will miss him as a
friend and as a colleague, Kleck said.
93
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I HAVE THIS OLD GUN

WALTHER PPK/S
GUN: WALTHER PPK/S
MANUFACTURER: MANURHIN (NOTE: PARTS MADE BY MANURHIN IN FRANCE
AND ASSEMBLED IN ULM, WEST GERMANY, ARE MORE PLENTIFUL)
CHAMBERING: .380 ACP (9 MM KURZ)
SERIAL NO: 252XXXS
MANUFACTURED: 1981
CONDITION: NRA VERY GOOD-PLUS (MODERN GUN STANDARDS)
VALUE: $750 TO $950 (INCLUDING ORIGINAL BOX, PAPERWORK AND MAGAZINES)

I
ronically, if it werent for the Gun
Control Act (GCA) of 1968 we
would not have the Walther PPK/S,
a moderately elongated version of the
PPK (Polizei Pistole Kriminalmodell,
Police Pistol Detective Model),
introduced in 1931. With its compact
design, the PPK was a trendsetter for
todays influx of double-action/single-
action pocket pistols.
The PPK was a slightly smaller ver-
sion of the Walther PP (Polizei Pistole,
Police Pistol), which had a barrel
length just under 4" and a magazine
capacity of seven rounds. The PPK, by
comparison, had a 313" barrel and a
six-round magazine with a separate
bottom finger rest to augment the
shorter length. Both guns were cham-
bered in .32 ACP and .380 ACP, and
later .22 Long Rifle, and they shared
innovations such as a safety/decocking
lever, hammer block safety and loaded-
chamber indicator. The .32 ACP and
.380 ACP pistols were adopted by the
German military and police.
The PPK in .32 ACP was also the
gun author Ian Fleming chose to
arm his fictional super-spy, James
Bond; it first appeared in the fifth
Bond novel, Dr. No (previously, Bond
carried a slightly less-lethal .25 ACP
Beretta 418). The PPK stayed with
Bond throughout the novels and mov-
ies, even making an appearance as a
PPK/S in the latest Daniel Craig flick,
Spectre (although the actor has a
professed hate of handguns).
With firearm manufacturing pro-
hibited in Germany after World War II,
from 1952 to 1986 Walther licensed PP
and PPK production to Manufacture de
Machines du Haut-Rhin (Manurhin) in
France, with Interarms of Alexandria,
Va., as the U.S. importer. Nonetheless,
the 1968 GCA found the PPK a tad
too small to qualify for importation.
Walthers solution was ingenious in
its simplicity; the company put the
shorter PPK barrel and slide on the
slightly larger PP receiver. This com-
binationdubbed the PPK/Swas
almost as compact as the PPK, but had
the extra-round capacity of the PP. It
was the best of both worlds.
The blued, 90 percent PPK/S
shown here (brushed nickel finishes
also exist) is an example of the all-
French version, proofed at St. Etienne
(most Manurhin guns were assembled,
proofed and marked as such in West
Germany), and is complete with plas-
tic case, instructions, test target and
three magazines with finger exten-
sions removed. Although the slide
bears blemishes of minor surface rust
cleaning, this PPK/S would easily
fetch $750-$950 by anyone seeking
a solid example of this self-defense
gun, a design that has withstood the
test of time.
RICK HACKER, FIELD EDITOR

96 FEBRUARY 2017 AMERICAN RIFLEMAN Photos by author

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