Federal law takes away someone’s right to own a firearm if they are convicted of a felony, which can be restored if the conviction is expunged or set aside. There can also be gun ownership prohibitions for misdemeanors depending on the offense.

What does the Second Amendment say?

The Second Amendment, as it is written on the Bill of Rights passed by Congress, is as follows:

“A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.”

Don’t miss our Top 5 Biggest Myths about Guns

Why was the Second Amendment so important?

The original intent of the Second Amendment was a part of maintaining the balance of power between state and federal government. 

The ability of private citizens to form organized, armed militias was deemed necessary not just to discourage the development of a tyrannical federal government that superseded state power, but also to fight and overthrow such a government should it rise to power. 

Armed militias were seen as a vital defense against tyranny due to their role in overthrowing the colonial rule of the British Empire. Providing constitutional protections to such militias was important because British colonial rulers had selectively banned and disarmed militias with Patriot associations.

In this context, the word “Militia” does not apply solely to organizations, however, and can also describe the individual or a group of individuals. Accordingly, the Second Amendment is also understood to protect the right of the individual to keep and use weapons for lawful purposes such as self-defense.

Second Amendment Court Cases

District of Columbia v. Heller

District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) is an important case for establishing how the Second Amendment is interpreted in modern American law.

At the time of the case, the District of Columbia had made it illegal to carry an unregistered firearm, while also prohibiting the registration of handguns. To lawfully own a handgun, people would need to obtain a one-year handgun license from the Chief of Police. Additionally, District of Columbia Code also required that all registered handguns must be kept unloaded and disassembled, or bound by a trigger lock or similar mechanism. Only handguns kept at a place of business were exempt from this requirement, which meant that they must be kept unloaded and disassembled at all times while in the owner’s home.

As a result of these provisions, the District of Columbia was sued by special police officer Dick Anthony Heller. Heller sued the District of Columbia after being denied a one-year license to keep a handgun at home for self-defense, despite being authorized to carry a handgun while on duty. He argued that these provisions violated his Second Amendment right to keep a functional firearm in his home without a license, and sought an injunction against the enforcement of these rules. 

This complaint was dismissed initially by the district court. However, the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit reversed that decision and stated that the Second Amendment protects the right of citizens to keep firearms in the home for the purpose of self-defense. Firearms kept in a nonfunctional state were not fit for the purpose of self-defense, and so the District of Columbia Code’s provision that handguns must be kept unloaded and disassembled therefore violated that right.

The Court of Appeals based its ruling on several factors:

Firstly, it reminds us that the “well-regulated Militia” referred to in the Second Amendment should not be understood to mean an organization licensed or sponsored by the government. Such a requirement would be counter to the purpose of the Second Amendment as a safeguard against tyranny. 

Instead, it upheld interpreting each Amendment in the simple meaning it would have had for readers at the time it was written. In the case of the Second Amendment, the meaning that would have been obvious to contemporary readers is that the Second Amendment guarantees the right of an individual to own and carry weapons as a defense in the event of confrontation. 

As handguns are a class of weapon widely used for self-defense purposes, and because the home is an area that needs to be protected in a confrontation, banning such firearms and preventing them from being kept in a functional state were both found to be in violation of the Second Amendment.

Although this was the majority opinion, 4 of the 9 Justices dissented, arguing that the Second Amendment does not curtail the government’s ability to regulate nonmilitary use and ownership of weapons.

McDonald v. City of Chicago (2010)

After the Court of Appeals ruling in District of Columbia v. Heller, Otis McDonald and several others filed a suit in Chicago to challenge gun bans put in place in 1982 that required registration to possess a firearm, and banned the registration of handguns. The suit argued that the ban violated the right of individuals to own and carry weapons, which the Supreme Court had found to be protected by the Second Amendment in the District of Columbia v. Heller case. 

The suit raised the question of whether the Second Amendment is applicable at a state level or solely federal. Plaintiffs in the case argued that the Second Amendment applied to state law through the Fourteenth Amendment due process and privileges or immunities clauses. Respectively, these clauses prohibit states from denying life, liberty, or property without due legal process, and prohibit states from abridging the privileges and immunities of US citizens.

The suit was dismissed by the district court, and the US Court of Appeals affirmed the district court’s decision before the Supreme Court agreed to reexamine the case, and reversed the decision.

The majority in the Supreme Court argued that the Second Amendment is incorporated in state law through the due process clause of the Fourth Amendment. It stated that the individual right to own and use firearms for legal purposes, especially self-defense, is integral to the American system of liberty and justice, and so must be incorporated to the states. This decision was based on the standards required for incorporation that were established in Duncan v. Louisiana (1968), namely that the due process clause of the Fourteenth Amendment applies to all rights that are fundamental and central to the American conception of justice.

Learn more about CCW reciprocity and carry out of state here

Second Amendment Rights

• Firearm Use For Lawful Purposes

The Second Amendment protects the right of individuals to use firearms for lawful purposes. Lawful uses of a firearm include self-defense and militia participation, as well as for practice, sport, and recreation. The Second Amendment does allow for state regulation of the ownership and use of firearms that does not infringe on the right to own and use firearms for lawful purposes.

• Lawful Firearm Ownership

The Second Amendment protects individuals’ rights to own firearms for use in lawful purposes such as self-defense. This means that classes of weapon that are commonly used for lawful purposes cannot be banned, and individuals have the right to maintain their firearms in a functional and effective state for those purposes, as per the District of Columbia v. Heller case. As a result, individuals cannot be required by state law to keep their firearms in a manner that would be ineffective for common self-defense scenarios.

* This guest post is brought to you by our friend Douglas Parker *

Douglas Parker handles content management and communications for Manshoory Law Group, APC. He has always had a special interest in the sphere of Law and Human Rights. Dedicating a lot of his free time to understanding the small details and specifics of these fields, Douglas enjoys exploring and analyzing them in his articles. His main goal is to make this sometimes complicated information available and transparent for everyone.

The post What Is The Second Amendment And How Is It Defined appeared first on Gunivore.

As women, we have to face unique challenges when concealing a firearm on our body owing to our different body shapes. Your holster must not only fit your firearm properly but also your body while catering to your wardrobe choices. Additionally, it must make you comfortable and confident enough to habitually strap on your revolver so that you are never left defenseless when exposed to threats.

If you don’t want to end up with a pile of homeless holsters, choosing the right concealed carry holster without much trial and error is important! However, many holster brands are now manufacturing a variety of holsters that will allow women to carry their personal gun without sacrificing their comfort or style. Here is a list of our favorite on-body concealed carry holsters for women that are worth checking out.

Don’t miss our brief on female gun ownership

1. Stinger Belt Holster From Galco

When it comes to gun leather, Galco is one of the most popular names. The Stinger Belt Holster is listed as one of the top picks for holsters for women who prefer outside the waistband holsters. It is specifically designed for double-action revolvers, compact semi-automatic pistols and subcompact semi-automatic guns that require to be carried on the side of your hips.

The holster is soft and made out of a high-quality steer hide that allows it to mould seamlessly with your gun. Additionally, the forward cant and open-top ensures a fast draw.

Other captivating features include a deep moulding and enclosed trigger guard. The belt loop is designed in a tunnel style that takes up limited belt space allowing you to conceal your firearm properly. Most women see this holster as a discreet on-body carry choice owing to its sleek and minimalist aesthetic that blends perfectly with any style.

2. The Reckoning Holster from CrossBreed

CrossBreed established its name in the holster industry with the launch of the SuperTuck IWB. Shortly after, MiniTuck IWB became a popular choice among women as it was perfectly sized for the firearms carried by most women.

Recently, CrossBreed expanded its lineup of concealed carry holsters with a new launch ‘The Reckoning‘. Soon after it became a best seller of the brand owing to its unique features. It can be worn by women IWB on the appendix, cross-draw position, or strong side. Additionally, you can convert it to an OWB with simple hardware.

Well, the features don’t end here. The Reckoning holster comes with multiple retention adjustment points and various leather options. This cutting-edge concealed carry holster also offers customizations and fine-tuned adjustment possibilities in the future. This has become one of the most popular holsters for women and for good reason.

3. The Thigh Hide from DeSantis

DeSantis Thigh Hide holsters are ideal for fashion-conscious women who don’t want to compromise on their style. It allows you to add skirts and dresses to your wardrobe while concealing a firearm in this intimate-wear on-body thigh holster.

Constructed out of soft breathable neoprene, this holster can be even worn on your date night without any discomfort. The slim design and custom-fit comfort allow women to carry their firearm without any hesitation. Additionally, the twin garter straps and packed Velcro seal will ensure that your auto guns or small frame revolvers stay in place.

Make your personal security the main priority with DeSantis Thigh Hide holsters.

Check out our top handguns popular with women

4. The Sticky Holster from The Well Armed Women

Most CCW holders swear by this sticky holster from The Well Armed Women owing to its versatility and comfort fit. It offers a wide range of carrying positions and can be worn inside your fitted slacks, athletic wear, or yoga pants. The sticky backing grips to your skin while the holster relies on the pocket friction or waistband compression to stay secured on your body.

If you are new to concealed carry holsters you can use this sticky holster to test out different carry positions and cants.

The close-end design not only feels comfortable on your body but also prevents gun oil from leaking. If you want a holster that redefines concealment while being lightweight, the sticky holder from The Well Armed Women is your best bet!

5. Tactica Defence Fashion

Tactica offers a dedicated line of concealed carry holsters for women. From concealed carry hoodies to concealed carry leggings, Tactica knows how to blend safety with comfortability.

Tactica also introduced a belly band that redefines concealment without sacrificing your safety. The belly band comes with a model-specific and secured Kydex holster to offer the most comfortable fit. It is available in multiple sizes ranging from XS to XXXL and also offers scope for customisation.

It also comes with a patented steel core spring reinforcement that prevents the belt from rolling over or slipping.

6. ComfortTac Belly Band Holster

Sometimes simpler is better and many women prefer a simpler, more comfortable option for concealed carrying. That’s why we’re fans of ComfortTac holsters, especially the Belly Band holster. These affordable and ergonomic holsters have no special bells and whistles, but they do offer versatility and flexibility. Keep in mind that they are not custom to fit a specific firearm and are ambidextrous, making them the epitome of generic, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. They have a limited selection of colors and sizes but they are comfortable for women of all sizes. These are particularly good for people carrying all day long and who need that flexibility and comfort.

7. Bra Holsters from Flashbang Store

With a rise in the number of female firearm owners, holster brands are trying their best to come out with innovations. Flashbang holsters for women offer comfortable and practical concealed carry options that seamlessly fit with the unique curves of women.

The bra holsters are the most popular product of Flashbang owing to their custom fit and versatility. These holsters can safely hold over 100+ different guns to meet your specifications. Additionally, you can customise your holster according to your draw hand and CCW.

What’s more? These high-quality bra holsters are available in a variety of Kydex colours and straps. You can now conceal your firearm without sacrificing your flexibility, comfort, or style.

Finishing Thoughts

Who said you can’t dress to impress while carrying a firearm in your body? Whether you are carrying it for your personal safety or you are on the force, holsters are your main firearm accessory. A properly concealed carry holder can make a huge difference in your comfort and safety. These top concealed carry holsters will maintain your looks while keeping you safe! 

* This guest post is brought to you by our friends at Bulletproof Zone *

Bulletproof Zone is a leading body armor marketplace offering an amazing collection of plate carriers, bulletproof vests, armor plates, bulletproof backpacks, even bulletproof clothing. Bulletproof Zone is a proud supplier of military, law enforcement, and civilians so go check them out and give them your support!

The post Best Concealed Carry Holsters For Women appeared first on Gunivore.

We’ll all remember 2020 for COVID-19, as well as the volatile presidential election. It was tough for all of us, and our collective resourcefulness and endurance were harshly tested.

Gun owners will also remember it as the year of one of the worst ammo shortages.

The additional paranoia that ensued immediately after the outburst of the pandemic triggered impulsive buying, and many still scramble to grab whichever ammo boxes they can get their hands on.

We talked to some gun enthusiasts, dealers, retailers, and we heard a lot of word-of-mouth rumors about this year’s ammunition situation, the reasons for the ammo shortage, and the foreseeable future. We didn’t like what we heard, and neither will you.

Why Is There an Ammo Shortage?

Let’s cut to the chase. We won’t see any restocking or standard ammo prices any time soon.

I remember the 2019 Gun Show in Monroeville, PA, where you could find mountains of ammo boxes at the stands. Last year, they only had ammo for two tables. I also remember the 2008-2016 ammo shortage too, when Democratic President Barack Obama took office.

Now, we have desperate gun owners who are more than willing to drive for hours just to grab two boxes of .223 Remmington ammo.

Since the pandemic, there has been a surge in panic buying. Gun owners scrambled as every box of ammo went flying off the shelves. Handgun rounds, rifle rounds, .308 Winchesters, rimfire rounds…

What’s more, there are still cases where customers and retailers don’t respect the ‘two boxes per family’ rule.

The 2020 Ammo Shortage

In January 2020, you could see piles and piles of ammunition and firearms inventory. And somewhere around March – poof.

By December 2020, you got empty shelves and racks, and a lot of angry customers lining up at various gun stores.

It was an election year with threatened gun rights, along with a global pandemic event. Top that with rioting and civil unrest, and you get increasing demands for self-defense.

2020 was an absolute downward spiral. Supplies were scarce, regular hunting equipment was limited, and prices were soaring high, with many gun owners stockpiling ammo for guns they didn’t even have.

Still, that’s nothing compared to the shortage we’re dealing with today.

Looking at the Firearms Statistics

In November 2020, merely two months before President Biden took office, the FBI conducted 3 million background checks, the biggest number of background checks since 1998.

This unveiled that there was a drastic increase of 1 million gun purchases compared to 2019, in which a staggering 2 million guns were purchased by regular and new gun owners.

The report made it obvious that firearms demand has been rising at an unprecedented rate.

But What Is Causing This Massive Demand?

There are a lot of factors at play, but the final nail in the coffin could have easily been anxiety over government change, simply put.

The current state of affairs seems to be an unfortunate combination of the election of a Democratic president while the pandemic that stopped the world in its tracks is still raging. 

Most industry experts and stock market observers are not surprised.

Gun owners began stockpiling when the first COVID-19 cases appeared in the US. The frenzy continued twofold when President Joe Biden, a Democrat, was elected.

Jason Hornady, vice president of Hornady, says “I’ve seen this cycle six times during my career. First, it was the ’94 ban. Then it was Y2K. Then Hurricane Katrina, September 11th, the election of [Barack] Obama, and then Sandy Hook.”

Understanding the Ammo Hoarding Paranoia

Georgia State University law school professor Timothy Lytton, an expert on the US gun industry, also believes that the new gun and ammo sales are spurred by the volatile political climate and the coronavirus crisis.

“Some people are worried about the fact that government’s falling apart and won’t protect them, and other people are worried that the government is getting too strong and is going to limit their freedom.”

He adds, “Or in this case, it’s anxiety about the deterioration of government – or the growth of government.”

It’s not just the fears of social disorder, but the political climate over gun control, as well.

This creates the perfect storm, which results in dwindling supplies, jacked prices, and an overall supply/demand imbalance.

So, we have the combined, panic-driven hoarding caused by both the pandemic and the election, along with the manufacturers’ inability to keep up with demand.

Truly, a vicious cycle in which all gun owners are affected.

Newcomers Are Another Reason

With the lockdowns and safety regulations, more and more people have been turning to the great outdoors.

The NSSF reports a new massive influx of gun owners in 2020 who purchased their first guns, hunting/fishing supplies, and ammo.

This, unfortunately, coincided with the great ammo shortage of 2020. Keep in mind that over 20 million firearms were sold in 2020, and the previous annual record was around 15 million in 2016, and over 8 million of those purchases were first-time buyers.

On one hand, manufacturers and retailers are delighted to hear about the massive demand for firearms, and on the other, they are forced to double down on production.

The industry desperately braced for every scenario possible and was bled dry with significant drops in material supply.

Manufacturing During the Ammo Shortage

When the crisis started out, overseas manufacturing operations had to follow strict lockdown measures, which halved primer and raw material production. After COVID-19 hit American shores, it got even worse.

A Gun Shack manager in Helotes, Wolf Laughlin, believes that the ammo shortage began right after the pandemic announcement last year, as guns and ammunition factories and mines were ordered to shut-down and reduce ammo production and manufacturing.

“All of the mines being closed means that you have less raw materials, less raw materials mean less components. Less components means less ammunition. And, again, as your supply goes down, your demand goes up,” states Laughlin.

Small ammo companies are unable to secure materials and components, suppliers scavenge brass and primers, Hornady scrambling to find boxes and packing tape… Primers and cartridges for 9mm and 5.56 NATO are the most sought after, and the manufacturers have a hard time utilizing all their manpower and machines to keep up with the demand.

However, it seems that firearms manufacturers haven’t exactly reached a consensus regarding this issue.

According to firearms manufacturer Hornady, despite the disruptions, American firearms and ammo manufacturing hasn’t slowed down. It’s actually on the rise.

The Marketing Director for Hornady stated, “There’s more ammo being made for the consumer market right now than, presumably, has ever been made in history. We are putting out more than we ever had. And I am positive that all of our colleagues in this industry are doing the same thing.”

The company president of Federal Premium agrees, “We are running our CCI/Speer and Federal factories 24/7 and shipping products for commercial distribution every day.”

How Can People Purchase Ammo?

No use going to the store just to be disappointed, right? We strongly suggest you keep an eye on the online stores and look for deals that are in stock.

We advise that you purchase only as much as you need instead of hoarding. If you aren’t sure where to start looking, check out these two guides for the best places to buy guns and ammo online.

There are many retailers and online stores that offer great deals for 9mm, .45 ACP, Federal, .223 Rem., 12-gauge buckshot, and AR-15 magazines.

When Will the Ammo Shortage End? What Can We Do?

Experts have held off making any exact predictions, but most agree that there are no indicators the ammo shortage will be stopping any time soon.

In the meantime, is there anything gun lovers can do?

We can practice buying with moderation, refrain from spreading misinformation and panic, and maybe even try taking matters into our hands by reloading, as some resourceful folks are already doing.

Additionally, branching out to new ammo types and calibers could do a lot for certain gun owners, and if you were thinking about buying firearms in .450 Bushmaster and 7mm Remmington, you’d do well to take that lucky shot right now.

* This guest post is brought to you by our friend Brady Kirkpatrick *

Brady is the owner of GunMade.com. He is from Omaha, Nebraska and has been an avid gun enthusiast ever since he moved to the Midwest over 15 years ago. It’s his passion to share his knowledge and expertise whether he is writing about purchasing your first firearm, shooting at the range, hunting, or any other related sports.

The post Current Ammo Situation appeared first on Gunivore.

There are two variables to becoming a good long-range hunter – owning the right kind of gears and possessing the right kind of techniques. Despite what gear manufacturers say, merely a good long-range device will not do. You need to be equally equipped with the skill sets to take it forward. This is what we are going to look at today. Hop on with me and by the end of it, I promise to leave you a tad bit enlightened with information and tips to take your shot farther and farther.

How Long is Long Range

Before diving into the topic, let me ask you the real question. How exactly do we measure the range? Or is there a particular stringent category called the long-range? How do I know if I have crossed it? Well, you would know for sure – that’s a whole other thing. Still, let me address this little mess of categorization. 

The truth to be told, there is very little solid account of what it means to take a shot to a long-range. For the longest time in history ‘long-range’ was seen as a descriptive comparative term that indicated one’s distance in comparison to others. You were praised in attaining a long-range if you went way beyond the record range of peers of that period. 

But there is this unending need to define ranges based on solid measurement units. Which would be why we normally refer to the NRA’s description of ranges for competitive shooting. This defines short-range as below 200 yards, medium-range somewhere around 600 yards, and long-range as between 800 and 1000 yards. I guess, most people have unanimously accepted 1000 yards as the distance for long-range shooting. 

But this definition is not complete on its own. While a practical definition in yards or meters is necessary, this is not the final word. Most professional hunters and shooters would look at a completely different definition – Long Range and Extended Long Range Shooting.

Also, a long-range structure is to them the distance for shooting which inherently requires ballistic calculations. If you zero at 500 yards but plan to take your shit to 800, then you have a lot of calculations in terms of windage and elevation corrections, bullet drop compensation, etc, to do, This is what experiences hunters treat as long-range. An extended long-range is when you will have to calculate the supersonic range of the bullet as well. 

Hence, the long-range becomes more about the technique and the gears rather than crossing a distance marker. This is what we will brush through today. 

Long Range Hunting Gear 

Getting hold of the perfect gear will be step one to attaining a long-range shot. There are many incidents of skilled shooters losing a shot due to a poor rifle or even of inexperienced hunters shooting down a target perfectly with the help of good gears. This is where the significance of perfect gear lies. As much as we say that skill is a must, so is allied pieces of equipment. So let us take a sneak peek at how to make your long-range shot easier and smoother with certain gears. 

Long Range Hunting Ammo 

Before discussing scopes or rifles, you need to figure out the power of your shot. Or in simpler words, pick an equipment that is best suited for the shot you intend to make. Choosing the perfect bullet includes looking at many features but when it comes to long-range the extra factor you must consider is the extended distance. 

You need to find ammo that can travel the extended distance and maintain velocity throughout. Bullet designs do help in these quarters. A sharp, aerodynamically shaped bullet will travel further distance with the same velocity. This type of bullet will be more favorable than a blunt one. Similarly, a heavier bullet will travel more consistently as it will be less influenced by wind and other environmental factors. Not just the weight, even the size of a bullet will influence and decide the caliber. All these factors will determine the strength and efficiency of hitting the target. Well, merely traveling a long-range is not our goal, is it? It’s to beat the target out. That is why good ammo is essential. 

Long Range Hunting Rifle 

We said that a bullet that weighs more is more efficient. But to put such a bullet into motion, a considerable amount of force is required. This is where rifles come into the picture. The rifle is what puts your shot into motion and is hence as significant as any other part. 

If you have been searching about long-range rifles, the concept of precision rifles would not have missed your eye. Precision rifles are not necessarily the only rifle for long-range shooting. But they are efficient and quite popular in the same arena. Their popularity is largely owing to the compilation of desirable features like sharpness in action, high precision, durability, stability, and efficiency in adverse conditions. 

While these characteristics make a precision rifle more desirable than others, I would also suggest you not get into this rat race of gear possession. Instead, look for a rifle that will ascertain these features to a degree you will prefer. For example, a heavier device can withstand more pressure and is also versatile in terms of mounting and environmental adversities. Hence the emphasis on the stability of a precision rifle.  Similarly, look for features that will guide you through a long-range hunt. 

You may also like our Best Hunting Rifles Review

Long Range Scope 

I will say that scope comes before ammo and a rifle. I would even suggest you spend more on a scope than on a rifle – cause a good scope will make your shooting day extremely fruitful. 

Certain basic components you need to look for in a decent long-range scope is good quality optics, precision powered reticles, efficient magnification and range, and a well-structured body. Nevertheless, extra components that boost up the aiming and measuring process become equally essential. 

A preliminary need will be the reticle which is usually placed in the First Focal Plane for long-range scopes. Most hunters tend to prefer this for shooting and targeting a far off object. Further, features like bullet drop compensators, parallax adjustment systems, windage and elevation turrets, side focus knobs, a fast-focus eyepiece, and so on. 

Many structural elements are also necessary for a long-range scope, and most of these are concerning the rifle and the bullet. If you are opting for heavy rifles and bullets, then a strongly built scope also becomes necessary. Not just strength, the scope should also be shockproof to handle high-velocity shots. Further, it should have really good eye relief. Otherwise, the recoil might just hit you badly and leave you hurt. So strength, comfort, and reliability are essential. 

Long Range Hunting Techniques 

Back in the days when Indian hunters were much more prolific than other hunters of the world, there was an axiom that said ‘Its the Indian, not the arrow’ It was not some God-blessed arrow that made hard targets reachable but it was merely their in-depth knowledge and training in the activity. The same goes for anyone. Even if you possess the best gears in town, you may still come last in a competition. This is because you are not trained as a huntsman or a shooter. Well, don’t worry. Let me give you a few tips to take your shot further and further. This is subdivided into two categories based on the relevance of long-range shots. Read on. 

Aiming

• The reticle is your ruler. Focus only on it. Make sure to align yourself on par with the reticle and then make required adjustments 
  
• Know your reticle well before magnifying. Reticles, based on the plane they are situated in and based on the kind of markings, have different sets of functions. This will essentially affect your target upon magnification. Like, a First Focal Plane reticle will be magnified along with the target. In the case of the Second Focal Plane, the reticle remains intact even upon magnification 
  
• If you are unsure about scopes that require you to squint for a long time then go for sight or devices which have an objective window and not a lens
  
• Find a position that well suits your hunting needs and also the terrains of your surrounding. Most long-range hunters have the habit of laying down on the ground and supporting the gun on their shoulders. This will certainly help in the long run by erasing any chances of shadow scope or parallax errors
  
• Adjust all the necessary values. Make your measurements correctly
  
• Cleckner in his book ‘Long Range Shootin Handbook’ gives a rather interesting means of aiming, ie, “Aim Small/Miss Small”. The idea behind this is to aim at a small area of the bigger target so that even if you miss that small area by a few inches you will end up killing the target nevertheless. Now, that is what I would like to call clever aiming techniques

Measurement

Measurements are rather tricky if you do not know the basic concept involved in each aspect of the equipment. Let me reemphasize here that measurements are not limited to the scope. You need to be well aware of other factors like the velocity of the bullet, power of the rifle, etc. so that you can correctly calculate things like bullet drop compensation and other distance estimations. Anyhow, two questions have been frequently asked in terms of measurement for a long-range shot. Let us take a quick breeze through these two. Read on. 

• MOA or Mil – which is better or easier for long ranges?

To start with, both these are units of angular measurements. The question of easiness in the application comes only with familiarity. To people who are used to doing distance calculations in meters and centimeters, distance estimation is easier in MIL units. For people who think in yards, MOA is the best choice. Now, if you ask about precision and efficiency for long-range shooting, all I would have to say is that MOA is a tad bit more precise. 

• What is a Ballistic Coefficient?

Ballistic Coefficient is the unit used to measure a bullet’s capability to travel through the air. A normal or popular Ballistic Coefficient would be less than 1 but then again this depends on the power of your bullet. In practical terms, the Ballistic Coefficient is a number that you will find on the box of your bullet. This is very important for calculating the trajectory of your bullet. The higher the Ballistic Coefficient, the less is the influence of wind on it, and hence the faster its movements. While this doesn’t necessarily involve a process of measuring, the Ballistic Coefficient further becomes useful in the process of measuring the bullet’s trajectory. The windage, elevation, and bullet drop estimations are all done based on this.

Check out our in-depth look at the best hunting dogs for all types of hunting

Conclusion

This is a mere sneak peek into the world of long-range hunting. To become knowledgeable about this you should step into the field yourself and tackle the shot. Just keep in mind the small tips and factors mentioned. You are ready for it. Hope you kill that speck of a target at just one go! Happy Hunting!

* This guest post is brought to you by our friend Eric at Shrewd Hunter*

I’m Eric from Nebraska, the founder of Shrewd Hunter. I have been hunting since I was a child. And now in my mid-30s, I wish to turn my hobby into something I can share with everyone. Hunting is a skill that is very difficult to master. But those who manage to do it love it. It teaches you about the world. And that is what I want to bring to you. I am here to use my experience to make things easier for you.

The post The Last Long Range Hunting Guide You’ll Ever Need appeared first on Gunivore.

Awareness and Control

One basic principle of gun safety is to never point a gun at anything you aren’t willing to destroy. This is practically a mantra in gun safety, and it is a good one to remember. Whenever you are on the range, the muzzle should always be pointing down range. If at anytime someone needs to walk out onto the range, everyone should be aware of this. All guns should be unloaded, and “neutralized”.

It is incredibly important that you never point a gun to your sides or behind you. It can be easy for new shooters to turn to speak or look at something, and without thinking turn the muzzle with them. This is how accidents happen. Always be aware of where a gun is pointing.

Trigger control falls right in with muzzle control. You never want to place your finger on the trigger until you are ready to shoot. If you are holding a gun, but not ready to shoot, you can simply place your trigger finger along the outside of the gun, or anywhere outside of the trigger well. You should not rely on gun safeties. Some firearms have safeties, and others do not. When a firearm has a safety, you should just treat it like a backup. It never hurts to engage it, but all the other safety rules should still be followed.

Gun Safety Mechanisms

There are various mechanisms used as safeties, and an understanding of them is necessary when handling your firearms.

The most common you will find are simple switches that lock the trigger. Some have a button, or a cross bolt safety. These are common on rifles and shotguns. Many handguns have a tang safety, which is a little lever near the rear of the slide that can be switched to engage or disengage the safety. Many bolt-action rifles have a lever, or pivot safety, that can be pushed to activate the safety. With all of these, the use is simple: just switch the safety on and off depending on when you are firing. 

Some handguns, most notably the 1911, have a beavertail safety. This is a little lever that is part of the grip. When the handgun is gripped, the safety is naturally disengaged when the grip is compressed. When let go, the safety naturally engages. Another safety mechanism found on the 1911 and many more firearms it the half cock. Essentially, you can cock a hammer to a halfway point. The hammer is not in contact with the firing pin, so if some force is applied the firearm will not go off. It is generally a safe way to carry a loaded firearm when not currently firing. It should also serve to make the gun “drop safe”. 

Many revolvers use what is called a transfer bar. A transfer bar is a piece of metal that bridges the gap between the hammer and the firing pin. When the hammer is cocked, the transfer bar raises. When the hammer is released it lowers. The way this works is that the transfer bar releases somewhat slowly compared to the hammer. When the gun is fired, the hammer strikes the transfer bar and transfers energy to the firing pin because the transfer bar does not get out of the way in the time.

However, say you are cocking or decocking the hammer, and accidentally release the hammer or set it into place too quickly. The transfer bar has time to move out of the way. Since the hammer only goes forward far enough to touch the transfer bar, and not the firing pin itself, an accidental discharge will be prevented. More modern semi-automatic firearms will often use what are essentially updated versions of this, referred to as drop safeties. Essentially, if the trigger is not being pulled, no amount of force should be able to move the firing pin into the cartridge with enough force to discharge a round.

Never Assume a Gun is Unloaded

Whenever you pick up a gun, you should never assume that it is unloaded. If someone hands you a gun, it is not rude to quickly check the chamber. On a pistol, take out the magazine (if it is present) and rack the slide to ensure that the chamber is empty. With a revolver, simply open the cylinder to check it. On a pump-action shotgun, pull the pump to see into the chamber. On a semi-automatic rifle or shotgun, check the magazine and pull the charging handle.

This quick check will serve as an extra layer of protection. Many guns also have loaded chamber indicators. There will be a bar that raises, and may be painted a visible color like red, when a round is in the chamber. This is useful, but not all firearms have them. Whether a gun has one or not, don’t rely on it solely. Treating firearms like they are unloaded when they in fact are loaded is a recipe for a serious mistake. 

Store Your Firearms Safely

One of the most important things to consider is to be mindful of who else will be around the firearm. If you have children in the house, the gun should be stored in a place where it will not be easily accessible to them. Of course, children shouldn’t fear guns, and should be taught how to use them and be safe with them, but you still never know what a child might get up to.

One of the best ways to keep your guns safe is to buy a gun safe. A gun safe can also offer defense and protection against the elements, all the way to extremes like home fires. Gun safes can also protect your firearms from thieves. When it comes to transporting firearms, proper cases will be useful. When you have a gun in a car, or when you are taking it into a range, A case is usually the best way to carry it. You should still practice gun safety by ensuring beyond a shadow of a doubt that the firearm is unloaded while transporting it. This of course does not quite apply when you are carrying a weapon for self-defense. Different rules apply, and you’ll learn more about that during the certification process.

Additional Gun Safety Tips

When you are cleaning your firearms, you are going to need to make sure you have an understanding of what you are doing. Ensure that the gun is unloaded before you start. Different guns field strip differently. You can find online instructions on how to disassemble your firearm in text, diagram, and video form. Don’t be afraid to seek help with this if you have never taken apart a gun before. When you’re cleaning it, you generally want to wipe it down to remove residue, use some type of lubricant or oil, and clean the barrel with a bore brush. You can read more when the time comes on the best way to do it. In general, keeping a gun well-maintained is important safety wise because it can help prevent malfunctions. Clean your guns people.

Another place where you not only may want help, but probably need it, is with altering your firearms. If you are making a small change, like switching out grips, you will probably be ok. If they are more major changes, things can get dicey. If you want to make changes to your firearm, feel free to find a gun shop to help you out. You also may want to make sure that any changes you think about making are legal, especially if you live in a more restrictive state like California.

* This guest post is brought to you by our friend Jay Chambers *

Jay is a pro free speech business owner based in Austin, Texas. Having lived through several natural disasters and more than a few man-made ones (hello 2008), he believes that resilience and self-sufficiency are essential in this increasingly unpredictable world. That’s why he started a business! Jay writes over at Minuteman Review.

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What is an Anti-Material Rifle?

As an anti-material rifle, the GM6 was designed to shoot and destroy unarmored or lightly armored targets. After joining the Warsaw Pact and finding themselves stuck behind the Iron Curtain, Hungary understood the need for strong urban warfare capabilities. In fact, some models like the M3 were powerful enough to take down helicopters and APCs. According to most definitions, anti-material weapons are strictly designed to take down enemy equipment and not combatants.

However, the M6, or the GM6 Lynx bridged the gap between standard anti-material rifles and powerful sniper rifles. This is a lot like the American Barret M82 which was originally designed for anti-material use but was used heavily for anti-personnel situations. The Hungarian Gepárd anti-materiel rifles are among the more impressive anti-material rifles but few can compare to the American McMillan Tac-50 and Barrett M82A1.

GM6 Lynx Rifle

The GM6 is significant in a lot of ways but I admire how the Hungarians developed the rifle from the M1 all the way up to the M6 Lynx. They changed many features which enabled the rifle to transform into an entirely new combat tool. For example, the M6 features a much better scope, shorter overall length, stronger internal components, a bullpup design, and fires 12.7×108mm and .50 BMG rounds.

While the GM6 does sport a non-traditional design (gotta love the bullpup), it’s actually quite intuitive and can be fired standing up and on the move in the right hands. I’ve seen soldiers mount a foregrip and go on the move for recon. Not to mention, most rifles in this family don’t hold 5-round mags in a 25 lb. frame.

Taking a closer look will reveal that the Hungarian-made firearm is spectacularly-built with high-quality components inside and out. It’s an impressive machine with controls that are intuitive and easy-to-manage. The bullpup design adds a lot to this gun especially when it comes to balancing the weight and reducing felt-recoil. Likewise, they included highly-specialized barrels for increased accuracy and even more recoil management.

I can’t say for sure why more countries don’t use this weapon, but it has so much to offer on paper and has a decent reputation in Europe. The standout features are definitely the bullpup design, lightweight portable build, and diverse operational capabiities.

Specs

• Model: GM6 Lynx
• Caliber: .50 BMG
• Capacity: 5
• Method of Operation: Long Recoil Action
• Barrel Length: 730mm/28.7″
• Overall Length: 1126mm/44.3″
• Weight (Empty): 25.3 lbs
• Effective Range: 1500m/1640 Yards
• MSRP: Approximately $15,000

All images courtesy of tacticalimports.ca

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HK G36 Rifle Design

To understand the G36, we must first look at its predecessor, the 7.62mm G3 Battle Rifle. The G3 was Germany’s first major rifle manufactured post-war and was a select-fire rifle made in collaboration with the Spanish. While the new gun was heavily influenced by German engineering, the design was primarily based on the Spanish CETME rifle. The G3 was a good weapon and managed to stick around for nearly 4 decades. While the Germans liked the G3 design, they made many significant upgrades when they developed the G36. For instance, the new and improved rifle would be made with a gas-operated, rotating bolt system as opposed to the roller-delayed blowback operating system of the G3.

Heckler and Koch debuted the G36 back in 1997 and it was a huge hit. In fact, it didn’t take long for it to be adopted by countries around the world, including NATO and U.N. forces. However, it really gained international attention for its significant use in the Yugoslavian and Middle Eastern conflicts.

It’s worth noting that the G36 wasn’t the first choice to replace the G3, as the Germans attempted to push their G11 and G41 rifles forward. Once the G36 beat the Steyr Aug in private trials, HK decided it was time to make the G36 their flagship rifle.

Heckler & Kock initialed called their new rifle the HK50 but would go on to adopt the Gewehr G36 designation for international use. The hype for the rifle was so big that a few countries had already obtained licenses for local manufacturing within a year of its release.

In terms of its design, the G36 doesn’t seem that innovative but it was supposed to stand up to the stress of warfare and extreme environments better than other rifles on the market.

Adopting the 5.56mm cartridge helped solidify Germany’s place in NATO but wartime experience would be the real test for the HK G36. The G36 was made to be durable but lightweight and many argue that this extra effort to cut weight was a fatal error. Likewise, the rifle wasn’t the most user-friendly of battle rifles in spite of the fact it had a modular design. At the end of the day, a massive independent report detailed how the unsupported free-floating barrel caused accuracy to drastically drop with increased fire rates.

H&K G36 Performance

We can’t discuss the HK36 performance without addressing one of the biggest controversies in recent rifle history. The German rifle was becoming the rifle of choice for international conflicts at the onset of the 21st century but then the real test happened. H&K’s tests had all proved to be successful but it’s hard to replicate real-life battle situations in the Middle East, obviously.

After a messy run-in with the Taliban, Germany forces found themselves missing their targets at an alarming rate. A German-led investigation found that two mags of sustained fire practically rendered the barrels useless. The G36 free-floating barrels were highly-susceptible to overheating and warping that accuracy would drop to less than 10% at 100 meters.

According to the local reports, the plastic barrel channels would simply overheat, in spite of the accuracy-boosting free-floating barrel, and cause shots to veer off up to 18″ off-target at 200 meters. Keep in mind that the rifle doesn’t have a true free-floating barrel system. All things considered, the overheating issue is a multi-faceted issue associated with the plastic trunnion, hot 5.56mm rounds, and scorching Middle-Eastern climate among other things.

Oddly enough, this whole fiasco went to court because the German military believed Heckler and Koch were culpable and understandably so. Nevertheless, the court ruled that H&K wasn’t liable for the G36’s issues because the military’s specifications weren’t set at a standard that the G36 failed to meet. The Bundeswehr designed the G36 during peacetime and hadn’t sufficiently tested the rifle for sustained fire and extreme climate, so they were let off the hook.

The funny thing is that even with the lawsuit and HK refusing to accept responsibility for the G36’s failures, the Germany military looked to HK for their next rifle.

G36 Variants

Heckler and Koch are known for making variants of their firearms and the G36 has some pretty notable variants of their own. Although many folks know about the G36K and the G36C, the German arms company also designed a G36V, MG36, G36A2, SL8, R8, HK243, HK293, & G36KV. It’s worth noting that these aren’t just small tweaks, these variants include carbines, LMGs, SAWs, and sporting models.

HK XM8 Rifle Review

Although many people think of the XM8 as the civilian G36, HK also developed the HK243 and 293 for civilian use. The 243 and 293 civilian-legal versions of the G36 are similar to the original 36 models, but don’t have selective-fire, accepts STANAG mags, and have quad-Picatinny rails.

I don’t particularly love these guns for their appearance, design, and functionality. But then you’ve got the odd XM8 which barely left the prototype stage. The G36-civilian-variant has shaky performance and unusual weight distribution which is probably why it’s so scarce.

Conclusion

Heckler and Koch are still among the top gunmakers in the world but even the best make mistakes. The G36 was built to replace an outdated rifle but wasn’t made out of necessity. This point makes it almost unacceptable and uncharacteristic of German engineering. The G36 certainly made an impact worldwide but it’s already outdated for any serious conflicts and that’s something that should stain their reputation.

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Best Low Price Guns

While there aren’t so many handguns under 200 dollars, there are some that definitely stick out. The term budget gun is loosely defined and is generally used to refer to firearms under $400 or so, but we’re here to scrutinize the top guns under 200 dollars give or take. Some may be sold for more and some may be sold for less, but I think $200 is a safe measure of calling a handgun cheap. I will try to keep most of the firearms here under that benchmark but exceptions will definitely be made. This is especially true given that prices change and different vendors offer sales all the time for discount guns.

One of the most interesting discoveries I made in my search for the best cheap handguns was that they came from all over the world. From Italy and the United States to Brazil and Germany, discount guns are made across the globe. However, one of the things I learned is that some good manufacturers make crappy budget guns (that’s you, Chiappa, and the freaking Beretta Pico).

There are cheap guns and then there are cheap gun manufacturers. Kel-Tec has built a reputation for crafting affordable firearms and the P32 pistol is an interesting budget gun. Besides being the lightest .32 Auto ever created, the DAO gun can be yours for just over $200. Likewise, Taurus Firearms has a decent selection of budget pistols that can found for under $250, I recommend finding a used PT-92 or G2.

One of my favorite underrated budget pistols has got to be the SCCY CPX2. I truly don’t get why more people haven’t picked these guys up. They’re probably one of the best CCWs under $250 packed with high-quality engineering and excellent customizability.

Best Budget Revolvers

There are a few reasons why it’s easier to make a better budget revolver than a pistol but I think cheap revolvers are generally better than cheap pistols.

Anyone looking for a cheap revolver should definitely consider the German EAA Windicator. German engineering is renowned around the world and that reputation holds true to their firearms. The Windicator may not be pretty or even have such great handling, but it’s damn reliable and has an overall great bang for your buck score.

Another great revolver is the single-action Ruger Wrangler series. These nifty six-shooters can be yours for under $200 and they offer the quality you expect from other Rugers. While it’s no CCW, it’s certainly one of the best cheap revolvers on the market without a doubt.

My favorite budget revolver has got to be the Heritage Manufacturing Rough Rider revolver. These “cowboy guns” are shockingly cheap for how nice they are. Yes, they are old-fashioned revolvers based on the Colt Single-Action Army revolver but they shoot very well and can shoot both .22LR and .22 magnum. These wheel guns are a great addition to your collection and will only take you back a bit over $150.

Cheap Handguns Under 150 Breakdown

If you want to know how much does a gun cost when you strip down most of the features and aesthetics, it doesn’t usually get below $150. This is a safe benchmark for handguns because it’s hard to find any legitimate pistol or revolver for less. That’s not to say that there aren’t cheap real guns under 100 dollars but it is a rarity. In fact, I’d say $200 is still considered a cheap handgun. Guns for less than this should be approached with caution since there’s probably a good reason they’re so cheap. Nevertheless, it’s important to do your research because sometimes the price can drop drastically simply because it’s made in a 2nd or 3rd world country.

When it comes to budget firearms it’s hard to have a conversation without mentioning Hi-Point and the Hi-Point C9 pistol. Hi-Points are probably the most hotly debated guns on the planet but, truth be told, they offer an excellent bang for your buck score. This ugly shooter can be yours for around $150 and it does the job but not much more.

If you’re looking for the ultimate cheap handgun then you gotta check out the ALTOR Corp Pistol. While it looks exactly like a glue gun, it’s actually a single-shot firearm available in .380 ACP and 9mm. It’s cumbersome to handle and shoot but it does shoot. I don’t know why anyone would actually want to own this gun but it’s one of the most unique firearms I’ve seen. Just remove the barrel and jam a single round in and hope for the best. The barrel is rifled so it’s surprisingly accurate given the fact that it looks like it was designed by a 4th grader.

Best Cheap 9mm Pistol

There are several solid 9mm pistols you can find under $250 including the Taurus Millenium G2, SCCY CPX2, and Hi-Point C9. Obviously, none of these guns are perfect and they are all bound to have haters. I personally really like my Taurus and I even used it for daily carry for a while. I also like the SCCY but it’s an acquired taste and isn’t as reliable as the others. Then we have the Hi-Point C9 which is arguably the most hated gun on the internet but, honestly, it works and it is ridiculously durable. I know there are plenty of people who’ve had nightmare experiences with Taurus, but assuming all works as it’s supposed to, the G2 or G2C is probably my pick for the best cheap 9mm pistol.

Best 22 Handgun Under $200

I’ve been shooting .22 for as long as I can remember and it’s hard not to love this cartridge. Because .22 ammo is so cheap, .22 has sort of become the Everyman’s firearm for practice and target shooting. As a result, it’s only logical that the best cheap 22 pistol will be something sought out by shooters of all ages. Whether you’re looking to boost your collection or give your kid their first firearm, a quality .22 handgun is versatile and good to own.

Although I really love my .22 Rough Rider revolver, I think the overall best 22 handgun under $200 has got to be the American Tactical Imports GSG Firefly. This nifty little rimfire was designed as a training pistol but works great for all kinds of .22 shooting. The German-made pistol was crafted to replicate the popular Sig Sauer P226 but a tad smaller. The controls and feel of the gun are excellent and really do a great job of mirroring the Sig. This gun offers a fantastic bang for your buck and can be yours for around $190.

Best Cheap Handgun Overall

Some people will ask me, how much does a handgun cost and there’s no objective answer for that. I’ve used $300 guns that I liked better than some $1000 models. It all boils down to preference and the level of premium features and aesthetics available. However, I do think that there is a way to compare the best budget guns and get a clear picture of which offer the best bang for your buck. It’s hard just to pick one so I think my favorite budget revolver would be the classic Rough Rider revolver while my favorite pistol is the ATI GSG Firefly.

Up Next: Most Affordable Shotguns Guide

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Standard has a wide range of firearms including some pretty wild semi-auto shotguns, single-action revolvers, 1911s, and a modern sporting rifle. Nevertheless, many people only know Standard for their most famous double-barrel firearm, the DP-12 shotgun. In today’s review, we’re going to take a look at their next entry into the double-barrel firearms market, the S333 Thunderstruck.

Keep in mind that the S333 Thunderstruck ATF status is not that of a machine gun despite the fact that it fires more than one round per trigger pull. It’s hard to confidently say one way or the other why the government decided to leave this gun alone, but I imagine it helped to be a revolver and not being in the media spotlight (re: bump stocks)

S333 Thunderstruck Reviews

The Thunderstruck S333 has all the ingredients for a market failure given the fact that it’s an inexpensive gimmicky firearm. It’s hard to imagine many people were thinking “Gee, I wish I had a budget mini double-barrel revolver”. Nevertheless, the 333 in the name comes from the idea of the firearms rule of three: that most self-defense situations take place within three yards, with three shots fired in under three seconds.”

While the S333 does seem to be made with high-quality components, the construction of the firearm is not ideal by any means. Because they really wanted to attract CCW shooters, they made sure to include several safety options but these can make the gun difficult to handle. For instance, the 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum with anodized finished frame makes the gun sturdy but the entire trigger system is a disaster.

Standard gave the S333 an elongated trigger designed for a two-finger pull. One of the issues with this is that it completely interferes with the grip and even depresses into one of the finger grooves. This is frankly a serious bit of oversight that was probably overlooked due to the other complexities of the revolver.

There is a partial trigger guard that doesn’t get in the way and a decent blade safety on the trigger, but it’s the trigger pull that really got me. Besides the awkward two-finger trigger pull, it takes about 20 lbs. of force to fire the S333. That’s pretty crazy when you consider the 6-7 lbs pull of the Glock 19 and the 12 lb pull of the Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 38.

One of the things I did like about the Thunderstruck was the usage of the .22WMR cartridge. I love 22 magnum guns and I also happen to think it’s one of the best calibers for self-defense. All things considered, the S333 does shoot well once you get a hang for the trigger. Its accuracy is fair and the double-barrel gives it a shotgun-like quality ideal for taking down threats.

In terms of its overall capability for CCW, it has enough integral safety mechanisms to allay any concerns while still not really inhibiting quick firing. Likewise, it’s a pretty small revolver so it can be concealed easily, though I would never use this as the first resort. This is the kind of gun that would go in my glove compartment or in the nightstand or even on my ankle, but I don’t think it’s an adequate primary carry gun.

The bottom line is that it is a bit awkward of a firearm but it does fit in a niche so I’m sure it will still interest some folks. Even though the sights aren’t bad, I wouldn’t expect very good accuracy until you’ve practiced the double trigger pull for a while. Part of this is the serious reset on the trigger that is so far from intuitive that you’re bound to struggle with it.

S333 Thunderstruck Specs

• Model: S333 Thunderstruck
• Caliber: .22 Win Mag
• Capacity: 8 Rounds
• Barrel Lengths: 1.25″
• Overall Length: 5″
• Weight: 18oz
• Finish: Steel & Aluminum
• Sights: Fixed 3-dot
• MSRP: $429

Conclusion

Although I’m not the biggest fan of the S333 Thunderstruck I can definitely appreciate Standard Manufacturing looking to innovate the industry. Being an innovator means you’re going to have ideas that don’t always pan out, and that’s okay. Standard Manufacturing is a respected gunmaker and has some of the top firearms on the market, especially in the shotgun department. Overall, I think the S333 has its place and many people can and will enjoy it, but it’s just not your everyday revolver any means.

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Savage 99

Like many other popular rifles at the time, the Savage Model 99 was a lever-action rifle but with a few small but significant alterations. Besides for the fact that the 99 was a hammerless rifle unlike the classic Winchester 1894, the Savage rifle also fed from a rotary magazine. This unique setup helped garner attention across America but the cost of the rifle would eventually be its demise. While Savage clearly knew how to build a top-notch firearm, they struggled to make it suitable for the average American and that’s where Winchester was able to thrive.

Besides for nixing the external hammer and adding a rotary mag, the Savage 99 added a few other small features which made it appeal to a variety of shooters. For instance, the Model 99 had a cocking indicator built-in as well as a spool which acted as a counter for the magazine to show how many shots were left. Additionally, Savage employed a different style of safety mechanism that locks the lever and trigger.

While the Savage Model 99 was a popular hunting rifle, Savage was keen on arming the military with their firearms but failed on several occasions. In addition to losing a major Army contract to Krag-Jorgensen, Savage beat out the Winchester 1895 for a New York National Guard contract but politics caused the contract to be canceled.

Once World War I came around the Model 99 was already a well-respected rifle and Savage had hopes of supplying troops on the front lines. Although nearly all outfits said no to the 99, Savage did supply a small number of modified Model 99s to the Montreal Home Guard.

These guns aren’t so difficult to find these days and are actually very pleasant to shoot. Keep in mind that just because a firearm was discontinued doesn’t mean it was a total dud.

In terms of the feel of the rifle, it’s got intuitive controls, a smooth action, a comfortable grip, and a nice sight system. It’s a pleasure to shoot in a variety of calibers and would probably make a solid hunting rifle.

Savage 99 Models

The Savage 99 was produced nearly 100 years so it’s only natural that there would be variations made throughout the years. For instance, the 99 was built with open iron sights but later models would be developed with the necessary provisions for mounting a long rifle scope. Likewise, some of the later models also used a detachable box mag instead of the original rotary magazine.

One of the most significant variations of the Model 99 was the introduction of more and more different cartridge options. They started by using .303 Savage but would eventually move on to an even more powerful .300 Savage. Nevertheless, the Model 99 would go on to be outfitted for many more cartridges including .30-30 Winchester, .22 Savage Hi-Power, .308 Winchester, and even .410 bore!

One of the most interesting variants of the original Savage 99 was the Model 99D Musket. The Montreal Home Guard agreed to buy Savage rifles during WWI but requested several modifications. In addition to giving it a more musket feel by adding a military-style stock and bayonet lug, the Model 99D was typically personalized for each solider with special engravings.

Conclusion

Overall, the Savage Model 99 was one of the most revolutionary rifles in its time and should be viewed as a significant piece of firearm history. It’s still remarkably quick-pointing and could still be relevant for today’s hunters. Lever-action rifles are making a big comeback, thanks in part to Henry Arms, and I believe the Savage Model 99 will become a hot item at auction houses. It’s a good looking gun that shoots well and doesn’t disappoint and I think it gets overlooked by Winchesters and Remingtons but it can hold its own against the best in its class.

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