Top 10 Glock 19 Accessories

• Grip/Plug Insert
• Slide Stop Lever
• Extended Magazine Release Lever
• Magazine Well Insert
• Light
• Sights
• Trigger
• Grip
• Magazine Extension
• Slide Cover
• Bonus: Holster

The Glock 19 is one heck of a handgun, and accessories are part of what makes an ordinary Glock 19 Gen 4 pistol even more personal. They can improve functionality and make a gun more reliable. That, after all, is ultimately the goal: to have a weapon you can count on at a time when you will need it. Whether for an everyday carrying civilian or military/police use, there are many accessories which can help make the Glock 19 even better than it already is. Here is our list of top 10 Glock 19 Accessories.

Top Glock 19 Accessories

1. Grip/Plug Insert

The first accessory is a fairly inexpensive item by the name of a grip plug/insert. In the back strap of your Glock, right next to the magazine well, is a cavity which some choose to plug. While there is some debate over whether or not you should plug up that cavity to begin with, the grip plug is a very popular accessory which can help your grip, give you more control, and as I understand it, there are shooters out there who have put that plug to very good use.

2. Slide Stop Lever

Next on our list is an accessory that is all about convenience and speed: the slide stop lever. This is another item which is not at all expensive, and it can really make a difference, especially for newer, less-seasoned shooters, and also for times when the gun isn’t quite broken in. Many shooters don’t like the feel of the flat slide release, and putting in something which is just slightly more accessible can be a huge advantage when operating the firearm. The lever doesn’t do much “damage” as far as the aesthetics of the weapon. It is still the same old Glock, but when your finger goes for that slide stop after a magazine change, you certainly feel the difference. A tiny bump that your finger can find quickly, making the exchange time as minimal as can be.

3. Extended Magazine Release Lever

Another “oldie but goodie” is the extended magazine release lever, very much in tune with the previous accessory. It is a time-saver, and when it comes to self-defense, it can literally be a life-saver. In a stressful situation, unless you are highly trained and skilled – sometimes, even then – your fingers can start to fumble and your mind can go blank. You need to be able to do what needs to be done, as quickly as possible. In a gunfight, you want to spend as little amount of time as possible with an empty magazine. This was actually added as a standard in the Gen4 series.

4. Magazine Well Insert

A very popular item, especially in competitions but also for everyday carry, is the magazine well insert. This is a very handy accessory that helps you heighten and control your magazine insertion technique as well as strengthen your grip. It is an extension that fits under the magazine well, and it provides a larger entrance for the magazine to slide into. This makes magazine changes fast, easy, and super smooth. The insert also makes sure that your grip is never too low since it forces your hand to arrive at a very precise location. It is an accessory that is easy to install, and while it may take some getting used to, it is one which is a must for those who wish to get a firmer grip and a quicker change of magazine. This insert includes a grip plug in it.

5. Light

The Glock 19 Gen3 and Gen4 have accessory rails below the barrel. One of the best possible purchases you can get for your Glock is a light. While it may make the gun a little bulkier (this actually depends on the kind of light you get), it is a must-have if you are carrying at night. Not all places have adequate lighting, and a good beam of light will turn that all around. Some may say that a laser is a better choice, but what good is a laser beam, when you are faced with the possibility of a pitch black night? A Glock tactical light with a laser option is having the best of both worlds, but if you have to choose, go with a light. It is always a very popular accessory.

6. Sights

Many owners choose to modify the original, factory-made Glock 19 sights. The reasoning behind this is that sight design which Glock provides is okay, but it is certainly not the best. The U-Dot sights may be good for the range, but they are not the best for a real-life situation. There is no tritium in the original sights, which makes them almost non-existent in low lighting or nighttime conditions. Your sights should be something you can practice with and rely on, and that is why many Glock owners choose to modify their gun’s sights. Popular sights are ones with tritium and fiber-optics.

7. Trigger

Glock’s triggers are great as they are, but still, there are many who choose to change the trigger so that there is a lighter pull needed for the striker to hit. This is not limited only to those in competitions but is also popular with everyday carriers. A lighter trigger means a quicker release, and that can make a big difference. Learning and knowing the subtleties of accurate trigger pulls will make you a more cautious and more aware shooter in the long run, which is something that many shooters want to achieve.

8. Grip

We’ve spoken a lot about grip in this list. Glock themselves have made somewhat dramatic changes to the Glock 19 grip over the years. Detailing, checkering, finger grooves, thumbs rests.  A good grip is essential, no matter who or what you are. Civilian, army, police – everyone needs to get a grip, so to speak. Grips are a very personal and subjective thing. Some may be perfectly content with whatever grip came with their weapon upon purchasing, but those who fire their weapon a lot find that the factory-made grips are okay, but not amazing. There are grip accessories out there which aim to make every draw a perfect one. The gun should fit into your hand like a well-molded piece of weaponry, and there are products – like grip sleeves and other add-ons – which can help you get to that level of comfort and confidence.

9. Magazine Extension

The ideal, of course, is to not find yourself in a situation in which you need to fire your handgun. But, when push comes to the proverbial shove, you have to exercise your right to self-defense and protect yourself. In a situation such as that, you need to make sure you have any advantage you can, and like I said earlier – in a gunfight, the last thing you want to be is empty. Adding an extra 2 rounds to the standard 15 round magazine, by way of a magazine extension, has always been popular. Sometimes, it is those last two rounds that will make the difference. You never know.

View this post on Instagram

Follow @nataliafadeev 🔫🇺🇸 #prettygirls#prettygirlswithguns#pewpew#2a#223#freedom#donttreadonme#556#9mm#sexy#ak47#righttobeararms#usa#ar15#america#igmilitia#outdoors#girlswithguns#girlsandguns#merica#molonlabe#guns#gunporn#beretta#sigsauer#glock#glockgirl#girlswhoshoot

A post shared by @ pretty_girls_with_guns on Jul 7, 2018 at 3:10pm PDT

10. Slide Cover

Okay, this last one may not count as a must have, but it certainly gives your gun a lot of personality. The slide cover is customizable, and while it may not be necessary, it helps you feel more comfortable with your gun. So, yes, feeling true comfort with any weapon comes from hours of practice and proper training, but it never hurts to have the Thundercats emblem, mark of the Jedi Order, or Batman symbol on your Glock!

Best Glock 19 Holster

It has been a big year for Glock with the release of a few new and updated firearms, but this year was really special for me because of the huge improvement in the holster industry. Besides for the rise of BLACKHAWK! and CrossBreed, I was thrilled to see AlienGear unveil the Cloak Tuck 3.5 IWB Holster. In addition to upgrading their premier holster’s materials, durability, and aesthetics, the new Cloak Tuck is now available for over 500 different firearms. If you or someone you know carries a Glock 19, you would be mistaken if you don’t at least consider the new AlienGear.

Thanks for reading our Glock Accessories feature here at Gunivore!

The post Top 10 Glock 19 Accessories appeared first on Gunivore.

With SHOT Show just around the corner (January 17 – 20, Las Vegas, NV), and the annual NRA Show coming up in the spring (April 27-30, Atlanta, GA), there have been many people wondering what 2017 has in store for us, firearm wise.

2017 is promising to be an interesting year, to say the least, what with Trump succeeding the throne of the U.S. Presidency. Some say Mr. Trump is the most Second Amendment-friendly president elect we have had in a long while. Remember, he did receive the endorsement of the NRA during his campaign, but time will tell exactly how gun friendly his administration turns out to be. At the least, we’re looking at a big improvement from our former President in the gun department. But enough of that. I am not about to talk about laws and politics, because honestly – I just don’t know enough about it. But when it comes to guns and firearms? Bring it on! Time to make guns great again!

Some of the finest manufacturers out there are about to launch new models and variants of existing models. Business is business, and many of them are keeping things hidden until unveiling day arrives. Here is a short list of guns to look out for in the coming year. Mind you, this is based mainly on rumors and conjecture. Nothing is definite until the press releases start coming in, but we’ll give you the scoop regardless here in our gun preview 2017.

Glock 2017 Preview

In June of 2016, Glock won an $85 million FBI contract. Later that summer, there were rumors – and even a leaked photo – flying around, regarding a new Glock 9mm model. Named 17M, this is a Glock modified for the FBI’s purposes and meant to succeed the .40 S&W as their new service pistol. There was also talk of Glock 17 and Glock 19 being introduced in their Gen 5 versions in this coming year.

RELATED: Glock 17, 19, 26, 30, and 36 Reviews

Remington 2017 Preview

For the first time in its 200 years of history, Remington Firearms started producing striker-fired, polymer-framed, semi-automatic handguns. This transition into the polymer semi-auto handgun market is one which has been years in the making. The company has already begun the process with its introduction of the RP9 and RP45 (in 9mm and .45 ACP, respectively) last last year. 2017 promises to be a big year for Remington, and I believe we can expect more models to be introduced. Will this shotgun/rifle-oriented firearms manufacturer be able to successfully penetrate a new side of the guns market?

RELATED: Remington 770, 870, 1100, 1187 Reviews

Smith & Wesson 2017 Preview

This company has been hard at work, preparing its new M&P 2.0 handgun for release. Back in the spring of 2016, there were rumors going around about this new pistol, and it was made semi-official after a hint was dropped, in the shape of the sudden addition of the 2.0 to the website inventory. This was done without any official announcement by the company or its affiliates, and shortly afterwards the listing vanished. Was it a mistake? A tease? Who knows. Things may change, but it seems that the new 2.0 will be a 9mm, striker-fired, 17-round capacity semi-automatic handgun, with a new trigger system, tougher grip texture, and durable finish.

This is just one of several guns which S&W are undoubtedly preparing to unveil at the upcoming trade show. If there was ever a time to be a fly on the wall…

Bushmaster 2017 Preview

Bushmaster sells semi-automatic pistols, but it specializes in M4 / AR-15 rifle variants. It is amazing what you can do with such a high-quality platform to build off of. For over 40 years, Bushmaster have been providing the shooting public with some of the best guns around, and in December of 2016 it announced the upcoming release of the Bushmaster Minimalist, a badass-looking rifle chambered in 5.56mm NATO and 300 BLK.

Chiappa 2017 Preview

This Italian manufacturer is no newcomer to the firearms industry, and in this coming SHOT Show, it plans on introducing several neat-looking guns. First of all, there is the highly-anticipated White Rhino, in .357 Magnum. This addition to the Rhino line of revolvers is one which will surely get people talking. In a second announcement made by Chiappa, it was revealed that they will be releasing their single shot .22LR Little Badger rifle in new calibers.

NEXT Pavilion is back for the 2017 #SHOTShow, introducing even more new manufacturers and suppliers https://t.co/cL5rNfA8G1 pic.twitter.com/adO17C1oOv

— SHOT Show (@nssfshotshow) December 16, 2016

There are manufacturers – typically the smaller ones – which introduced some of their new products at the 2016 National Sporting Good Wholesalers (NASGW) expo (October 25 – 28, Kansas City, MO). On the other hand, there are manufacturers which choose to hold out on revealing anything new, until SHOT Show rolls around. The element of surprise certainly lends itself to the drama which surrounds SHOT every year. Among the new makes, models, optics, holsters, and other goodies which were unveiled at the NASGW 2016 were:

• Ruger’s Mark IV and 22/45 pistols.
• Barrett’s O/U shotguns.
• SIG Sauer’s P226-RX.
• SIG Sauer’s Tango 6 Level Plex.
• Mossberg’s short-barreled AOW (based on the 500).
• Adler Arms’s A 110 Lever-Action Shotgun.
• Crimson Trace’s LiNQ laser system (also shown at SHOT Show 2016).
• Bond Arms’s new PT2A (Protect the Second Amendment) pistols.

Truth is, there isn’t too much to say at this point. Gun companies and their PR people like to keep a tight lid on any new information, but on the other hand, some reps and associates love to drop hints and drive the gun enthusiast community a little nuts in the process, with those “keep ‘em guessing” attitudes being displayed across the board – that is, until SHOT comes around and puts the cards on the table. This year is no different. It’s all part of the business, I guess, but there is also an element of fun to it, if you happen to be an outside spectator.

“To every job that must be done, there is an element of fun!”

-Mary Poppins

And speaking of Mary Poppins… I love the holiday season, but I am also looking forward to the end of January, so we can find out just how hard firearms (and firearm accessories) companies have been working this past year. I am hoping, like many others, for a lot of interesting developments in 2017. We will have to wait and see.

Thanks for reading our 2017 gun preview here at Gunivore! If you’re interested, check out our new ammo features covering the .45 ACP, .40 S&W, and 9mm!

The post Gunivore Gun Preview 2017: Ready, Set, Fire! appeared first on Gunivore.

Is there anything quite as satisfying as pumping a high-quality pump-action shotgun, ejecting a spent round, and chambering a new one? Probably, but bear with me here. One of my favorite shotguns of any kind, and particularly of the pump-variety, is undoubtedly the Remington Model 887.  A successor of sorts to the highly successful Remington 870, the Remington Model 887 did a lot right. I say “did” because the gun has been sadly discontinued, but we’ll get to that later.

There is a widely-referenced project management concept known as the iron triangle, which states that of three key factors – fast, good, and cheap – you can only really feature two. For example, a restaurant can be fast and cheap, but not good. Or conversely, it could be good and cheap, but not fast. I would like to apply this same concept to gun development, but with different factors in play. In my experience, generally, a firearm can be durable and handle well, but not be lightweight. Or, it could be lightweight and durable, but not handle well. And so on and so forth.

Now, on a few rare occasions, I have had the pleasure of firing a gun that bucked this trend and hit all three check marks – and the Remington Model 887 is one of those guns. It features a remarkably durable synthetic build, it fires like a dream, and its light weight will take you by surprise the first time that you hold it. So, what could have gone wrong for a gun that achieved this “trifecta?” Why on earth didn’t it sell like hot cakes, and why was it discontinued? Buckle up my friends, I’ll be giving you the full story here in our Remington Model 887 Nitro Mag Tactical Shotgun Review!

Remington Model 887 Nitro Mag Tactical Specifications

• Weight: 7.38 lb, 3.3 kg.
• Length: 48.5 Inches, 1,230 mm.
• Barrel Length: 28 Inches, 710 mm.
• Chamber: 2.75 Inches.
• Length of Pull: 14 Inches.
• Cartridge: 12 Gauge.
• Action: Pump-Action.
• Feed System: 7+1 Tactical (4+1 Standard).
• Sights: Hi-Viz LitePipe Front Bead, Polymer Mid-Bead.
• Finish: ArmorLokt, Synthetic.

Remington Model 887 Nitro Mag Tactical Shotgun Build

The 887 isn’t all synthetic – it does utilize a steel receiver and hammer-forged barrel featuring the same steel implemented on the Remington 1100 and 870 models. However, the primary build of the gun is encased in a highly protective, everything-resistant nylon synthetic material known as ArmorLokt. The build is billed as being resistant to water, weather, drops, scratches – you name it, and the patented Remington ArmorLokt finish protects from it. In my experience, Remington’s boasts hold true – this is probably my second-to-favorite synthetic build or finish, a close second to that famous Glock polymer stuff. Surprisingly, as protective and rugged as the build appears, the gun is pretty light weight. At 7.38 pounds, you’ll be legitimately surprised the first time you pick this thing up as it is just about the same weight as the aforementioned 870 despite giving off a much heavier vibe by sight.

As far as the rest of the build: the hand guards are a bit larger than average, which if nothing else affords the user the option of utilizing either a bigger or a smaller grip – whatever works best. Unlike the 870 which uses a single lifting lug in order to lock the action, the 887 uses a dual-rotating lug which I personally find to be more effective. What’s more is that the slide release is located in front of the trigger guard as opposed to the 870 – another welcome change. Lastly, as far as the rails – or lack thereof – are concerned, your situation is going to come down to the model you’re using. If you’re the owner of a Tactical variant, you’ll be blessed with a nice picatinny rail for accessories. If you’ve got the standard model, well… maybe someone will trade with you.

Remington Model 887 Nitro Mag Tactical Shotgun Shooting

Often times, lightweight guns will have trouble with kick, but the 887 took me by surprise once again by handling remarkably well. Even an extreme novice would be able to work with this kind of recoil, which rates well not only as a light gun, but for any shotgun really. It defintiely tops the 870, the 88, and the 1100 in my estimation, though not the 1187, which I still deem the champion of Remington shotguns. Some shotguns can give your upper body a beating, but the 887 is downright comfy. Not only was I not wincing in anticipation of follow up shots or shooting in rapid succession, I embraced firing with the swiftness like I was one of Sosa’s men unloading a clip into Tony Montana.

Long-term use? Well, “long-term” is a somewhat relative term. After around 1,000 shots fired and a few months of use, the 887 held up just fine for me (full disclosure – I sold it once Remington announced the recall). My only, *only* issue with performance would be that I don’t think I perform as well with a plastic gun than with a metallic gun. Something about the grip just doesn’t feel quite right for me when it comes to synthetics. That’s obviously a personal, subjective issue though, one that will come down to your own preference.

Remington Model 887 Nitro Mag Tactical Shotgun Magazines and Sights

Once again, owners of the 887 standard are going to feel somewhat shortchanged. The regular version of the shotgun features a 4+1 capacity, while the Tactical model gets a 60% increase to 7+1, Truth be told, 4+1 isn’t some embarrassing trait, but compared to an obviously superior variant it does look kind of weak. As far as functionality, I haven’t encountered any problem with mags, the feed system, chambering, or anything like that.

I am a big, big fan of the Hi-Viz LitePipe Front Bead and Polymer Mid-Bead sights on this shotgun. They work great for sight acquisition and are made of high quality materials that ensure that the sights of this shotgun are as sturdy as the gun itself. This is a consideration that far too many companies neglect to factor when building their own guns, unfortunately. Now, the Remington 887 happens to be a popular home-defense shotgun (unsurprisingly – this is a pump-action shotgun we’re talking about). Given this, it’s clear that night sights or sights that illuminate and make for fast target acquisition are where it’s at. By extension, clearly, the Remington 887 is where it’s at.

Check out our Glock 17, 26, 30, SIG P228, and M16 Features!

Remington Model 887 Nitro Mag Tactical Shotgun Safety, Assembly, and Recall

Disassembling and cleaning the 887 is a breeze, although that should come as no surprise given that this is a Remington firearm. I would be remiss in discussing the safety and assembly of this gun without mentioning the very significant recall of 887 models manufactured from December 1, 2013 to November 24, 2014. As Remington describes:

“Remington has determined that in some Remington Model 887™ shotguns manufactured between December 1, 2013 and November 24, 2014 the firing pin may bind in the forward position within the bolt, which can result in an unintentional discharge when chambering a live round. This may occur when the safety mechanism is on. Any unintended discharge has the potential to cause injury or death. Therefore, Remington is voluntarily recalling ALL potentially affected products to inspect and repair. Due to the risk of unintended discharge, the instruction to owners of affected shotguns is to stop using it immediately” (via Remington.com).

Well, it doesn’t get much more troubling than that. Where you’re dealing with guns, you rarely want to hear about “potential to cause injury or death,” so I have a hard time making an excuse for Remington on this one. But look, the truth is that manufacturing errors happen all the time, Remington caught it before irreparable damage had occurred, and this doesn’t take away from the quality seen in functioning 887 models. One strike I will call against the gun is that the bolt release is kind of like a second trigger on the gun. It’s unlikely that confusion over which trigger is which would result in an unwanted firing, but this seems like a design element that should have been avoided for the sake of staying on the safe side.

Remington Model 887 Nitro Mag Tactical Shotgun Discontinued

As of 2015, the Remington 887 was unsurprisingly discontinued. Remington has stated that spare parts and basic support is still available for the gun, but that this support could not be guaranteed in the long term. Now, after the recall took place, a full discontinuation and support-pull became something of an inevitability. That is why I chose to sell my 887 after only a number of months of use. However, I don’t consider my sale a disavowal of the 887 – on the contrary, I am a big fan of the shotgun. Unfortunately, however, the reality is that owning a non-supported shotgun with a diminishing support base for parts, mods or accessories is just not worth the headache. There are a full slate of shotguns available with complete first- and third-party support (like the Kel-Tec KSG, my replacement shotgun). 887 owners like myself were disappointed, but there’s no shortage of worthy alternate shotguns available – including in Remington’s own catalogue.

View this post on Instagram

I love my Remington so much! All thanks to my Joshua 💞😘😍#remington #remington887 #bangbang #shooting #practice #claypigeons #gotit

A post shared by Kathryn Gardner (@1kgbailey) on Dec 30, 2016 at 3:40pm PST

Remington Model 887 Nitro Mag Tactical Shotgun Price

An online search to find a Remington Model 887 revealed the following prices:

• $329.88.
• $399.99.
• $340.00.
• $449.00.
• $509.99.
• $360.00.

That averages out to a price of $398.14. And I asked in my local gun shop how much they charged for the Remington Model 887 and it costs – you guessed it – $400. Your mileage may vary, particularly if you’re dealing with used models that come in different conditions and states, but expect to be in the four hundred dollar range when shopping for an 887.

Remington Model 887 Nitro Mag Tactical Shotgun Accessories

Accessories are even more convenient for gun owners than Access-A-Ride is for my elderly grandmother. This is particularly true when it comes to the Remington 887 – and I’m doubling down here if you’re one of the fortunate ones who owns a tactical model and a picatinny rail to play around with. In terms of top accessories, we’re dealing with a lot of the same usual suspects that you’d expect with a pump-action shotgun. That means shell holders, recoil pads, stocks, and slings.

Conclusion

The Remington 887, when functioning properly, is an excellent shotgun. Unfortunately, Remington encountered some difficulty in consistently manufacturing functioning 887 models, and thus the 887 is no longer being manufactured today. Thankfully, many of the elements that made the 887 a great shotgun can be seen in Remington’s extended shotgun line, so whether it’s the 887 or some other Remington model, you should be good to go.

Thanks for reading our Remington 887 feature. For more on Remington, check out our 770 and 702 reviews here at Gunivore!

The post Remington Model 887 Nitro Mag Tactical Shotgun Review appeared first on Gunivore.

Table of Contents

• Specs
• Build
• Shooting and Performance
• Magazines and Sights
• Safety and Assembly
• Problems
• R1 Enhanced
• R1 Stainless
• Variants
• Conclusion

The 1911 (Army designation M1911) is an American icon. It is one of the most enduring handguns ever to be manufactured. The Remington 1911 R1 – Remington’s twist on the old classic – is a relatively recent addition to this manufacturer’s long line of firearms, and it comes in several versions which we will cover here in our Remington 1911 R1 Semi-Automatic Pistol Review. Here are some of the R1’s technical specifications:

Remington 1911 R1 Specs

• Caliber – .45 ACP.
• Action – Semi-Automatic, Short Recoil.
• Length – 8½ Inches.
• Barrel length – 5 Inches.
• Weight (empty) –  38½ oz.
• Sights – 3-Dot, Dovetailed, Rear and Front.
• Capacity – 7 Rounds.
• Introduced – 2010.
• MSRP – $774.

Remington 1911 R1 Build

The frame and machined slide are made of carbon steel, with a satin black oxide metal finish. The magazine well is beveled (watch out for those edges!), the trigger is solid aluminum, and the barrel and bushing are stainless steel. Overall, the build of this thing says that it means business. As a result of its construction, it has this solid, stiff, “workhorse” kind of feel to it.

When you are holding this pistol (or maybe any other 1911), you get the feeling that this – not polymer frames – is where it’s at. I don’t know. It isn’t as if Glock has a 1911 to compete with all the others. The point I am trying to make about the R1’s build is that it is a steel-based military-inspired no-nonsense handgun, and it handles like one.

Remington 1911 R1 Shooting and Performance

The best thing about this gun? It really shoots like a 1911. Remington originally manufactured a version of the 1911 during World War I for the military, and it was modeled after Colt’s M1911 pistol. Production of that 1911 handgun was discontinued one year later when the Great War ended. It wasn’t until 90 years later, in the spring of 2010, that Remington announced its return to the 1911 (this time calling it the R1).

So, as I was saying, it feels really good in my hand. Like a genuine 1911, though inside and out it is all Remington’s doing. The trigger is nice and smooth. It isn’t the best trigger out there, I’ve had better, but it holds its own. The trigger changes from one version to the other, so take this with the proverbial salt grain. The walnut grip is solid and diamond-checkered, and while I am on that, I will just say that the gun itself is a real pleaser, both aesthetically and functionally. It looks good, it feels good, and it gets the job done in the best possible way. Well done, Remington! It’s a hell of a pistol.

Remington 1911 R1 Magazines and Sights

The standard magazine for the R1 holds seven rounds. Aftermarket magazines offer higher capacities, and some prefer those to the factory magazines, citing less failures than with the stock mags. I don’t really have an opinion since I never had those issues. I avoid magazine trouble by not loading magazines to their fullest capacity.

I learned that early on. It is better to load one or two rounds less, rather than have to deal with jams and failures. If you load things to capacity all of the time, you may find that it takes you more time than it would have to simply switch empty magazines.

I do this with guns and rifles, and I know for a fact that it has saved me a lot of accumulated downtime over the years. So, the R1’s magazine: Two standard magazines are included with the gun itself, and we are looking at 7 + 1 in the chamber.

Let’s move on to the sights. They are of a standard 3-dot formation, and they are day sights. Night sights are always a popular option for modification, and they are an accessory many choose to purchase. Fiber-optic and tritium will probably give you the best results.

Remington 1911 R1 Safety and Assembly

The safety is a standard 1911-style safety, and you can really feel when it is engaged. It is designed to prevent accidental discharges by locking the hammer, trigger, and slide in place. The safety can only be engaged when the hammer is fully cocked.  There is also a grip safety, which protects against unintentional firing. Furthermore, there are what Remington call “passive mechanisms”, like the disconnector, the firing pin system, the pin block, the trigger guard, and the ability to quarter cock.

Assembling and disassembling the R1 can be a bit tricky at first because the bushing is usually on tight, but once you get the hang of it, it is not a problem. The R1 comes with a bushing wrench. Loosen up the bushing, pop out the spring, and you’re in business. Move the slide down, remove the safety, and then simply take off the slide. The barrel and recoil spring can then be taken out for inspection and cleaning.

Related: Check out our Remington R51, 1187, 770, 870, and 1100 Reviews.

Remington 1911 R1 Problems and Complaints

You gotta take the good with the bad. Many times, 1911-style guns require a break-in period. Others disagree, but keep that in mind when you first take your R1 out to shooting sessions. After a couple of hundred rounds through the chamber, initial problems go away.

Pistola Remington 1911 R1 calibre .45 ACP ( Automatc Colt Pistol pic.twitter.com/4NGp2RW9e1

— Loucos Por Armas (@Armaspics) December 13, 2016

Other than issues which can be traced back to the breaking-in process, there have been problems with the standard magazines. Again, loading the magazine to one round less of its maximum capacity can be helpful. Instead of 7 + 1, it will be a 6 + 1. If you need the firepower, and if your mags seem to be causing jams, get other magazines.

1911 guns are notoriously picky when it comes to ammo. If you run into trouble, go for a shooting session with full metal jacket factory ammo only, while using the factory-supplied magazines. Keep track of any failures or jams. Getting in touch with Remington’s rep can’t hurt, and they have been known to be highly accommodating.

Remington 1911 R1 Enhanced Review

This is a version of the R1 introduced in 2011. It has an extended capacity of eight rounds per magazine. Furthermore, it features a larger hammer and wider safety. The grips are different as well, and there are thumb grooves in them. The sights are front fiber-optic, rear adjustable. [MSRP $903].

Remington 1911 R1 Stainless Review

This is a version of the R1 Introduced in 2012. Pretty much identical to the original R1, only this version uses matte stainless steel for the frame, slide, and several smaller parts of the gun. [MSRP $837].

Other Remington 1911 R1 Variants

Many other versions of the 1911 R1 are currently available, including:

• The 200th Anniversary Limited Edition (MSRP $1,649).
• The 200th Anniversary Commemorative Edition (MSRP $835).
• The Carry (MSRP $1,067).
• The Commander (MSRP $744).
• The Carry Commander (MSRP $1,067).
• The Carry Commander CT (MSRP $1,350).
• The 10mm Hunter (MSRP $1,310).
• The Enhanced Commander (MSRP $903).
• The Stainless Enhanced Commander (MSRP $990).
• The Enhanced Stainless (MSRP $990).
• The Enhanced Threaded Barrel (MSRP $959).
• The Enhanced CT (MSRP $1,129).

Each of these has a slightly different take on what is undoubtedly a classic piece of American weaponry. The 200th Anniversary guns have some special visual features and are in limited numbers; the CT versions come with a built-in laser; the Commander versions are ideal for concealment; the Hunter has a long slide and a 10mm Auto chambering, designed for hunting. All of these versions are accurate and deadly. Depending on the task at hand, there is a 1911 R1 that will fit the bill.

Conclusion

This review was of the standard version. I’d love to get my hands on other ones and see how they measure up. There are cheaper 1911 models out there, yes, but there is something about the Remington models which stands out. For the price that you pay (which is low to mid-level in terms of 1911 prices), you get a lot of value for your money. Some are more expensive than others, of course.

The Remington 1911 R1 lives up to the 1911’s legacy, and it is certainly a gun which has captured the feel of the original Colt, and has been a wonderful addition to the growing line of 1911-style pistols. This gun is here to stay.

While you’re here at Gunivore, check out our New Glock 17 & 19 Gen 5, and 26 features, and maybe read up on the M16, too!

The post Remington 1911 R1 Semi-Automatic Pistol Review appeared first on Gunivore.

The Remington Model 597, chambered in .22 Long Rifle is one of the most accessible semi-automatic rifles out there. The ammo is relatively cheap easy to get hold of. Even during the recent “ammo scare” years, .22LR was always around. This is an inexpensive option which appeals to many shooters. Let’s take a closer look at some of the 597’s technical specs.

Remington Model 597 Specifications

• Caliber – .22 Long Rifle.
• Action – Semi-Automatic Rimfire.
• Length – 40 Inches.
• Barrel length – 20 Inches.
• Weight – 5½  lbs.
• Stock – Synthetic.
• Sights – Iron Sights.
• Capacity – 10 Rounds.
• Finish – Matte.
• Introduced – 1997.
• MSRP – $213.

Remington Model 597 Build

The thing which you notice first of all about the build of this firearm, is that it utilizes two guide rails as opposed to one. This already puts it a bit above the rest, and provides extra stability and reliability. The bolt, hammer, and trigger sear are all plated with nickel-Teflon.

The receivers are already tapped and drilled for mounts, and there is the option to “hold open” after the last shot has been fired, for quicker reloads. Everything about this gun is ergonomically pleasing. Or it was to me, anyway. It is relatively light, it doesn’t snag or catch on anything, and it has a nice full length to it. My shoulder had no trouble welcoming the 597, but if you do have some kind of issue, remember that pads are your friend, whether in the field or at the range.

The barrel is half of the rifle’s length, which pretty much guarantees you will be able to become a great shot with time and practice. The 597 is designed primarily for plinking and for hunting smaller game, but it just as well work for self-defense. I know there are some people who feel that a .22LR is not a proper self-defense cartridge, but I feel it is adequate. It has a quality safety, a fun trigger, and is generally very user-friendly.

Remington Model 597 Shooting

Everything about this rifle has a Remington smoothness to it. This was true even straight out of the box. Is that something major? No, but it is always a nice bonus to see that those at the factory are doing their best. The trigger is easy to pull and work with, and there is a great amount of tension going on there. The bolt catch is large, but not too large. You can see just fine, and find the bolt when you need to without it getting in the way of your firing. Shooting this thing is a breeze, and the recoil is barely even there with the .22 LR’s low-grain ammo. It is the kind of rifle I could spend all day shooting. I just hate setting up the targets…

Remington Model 597 Magazines and Sights

The 597’s small, 10-round magazine uses a staggered stack formation, which makes it easy to load and easy to handle overall. The standard is 10, but 30-round magazines are also available. Note: it is best to avoid loading either magazine to capacity. They can cause jams, so make sure you go for 9 rounds / 25 rounds when you load them. That seems to be a fairly good spot, and it still offers the shooter a lot of firepower. The standard 10-round mag sits nicely, though not exactly flush, and the mag release works great. Again, very smooth. The 30-round banana style magazine is also pretty compact, and it doesn’t get in the way of anything.

At this time, there are three models of 597 in the Remington catalog: Synthetic, HB (heavy barrel), and Pink Camo. In the 20 years since it was introduced, there were a few 597 versions were released and then discontinued. There are many of them out there, and a lot of them come with a scope already installed. Others come with iron sights. Some don’t have either.

Related: Check out our Remington R51, 700, 1187, 770, 870, and 1100 Reviews!

Remington Model 597 Safety and Assembly

The Model 597 has a cross-bolt safety which is easy enough to maneuver. It is located at the back of the trigger guard, and can even fit some lefties because of its location. After taking our two small screws, the rifle breaks down into two: receivers, action, and barrel (along with any scope you have mounted) come off in one piece, leaving the synthetic stock as the second main piece of the rifle. Cleaning it can be a bit of a pain, but as far as assembly goes, it is pretty easy.

Remington 597 vs. Ruger 10/22

The Remington 597 gets compared a lot to two rifles: the Ruger 10/22 and the Marlin 60. Three of those are chambered in .22LR, but let’s focus on the 10/22 for now. Here is a general specs breakdown:

Both of these rifles are dedicated and accurate. Both of them are magazine-fed. Both are drilled and tapped. The safety mechanism and magazine release are located in different areas, but both of them work just fine, and are easily accessible. The Remington 597 is easier to load than the Ruger 10/22, but those are things which also become easier through experience. Muscle memory is a great thing, and you find your body acting of its own accord. I guess that is when you know you are making some progress.

Another difference it that the 597 has a “last shot hold open” function, which the 10/22 does not. In conclusion – I feel that right out of the box, the Ruger has a slight advantage. There are less things that can go wrong with it. However, after some breaking-in and perhaps some light modifying, the Remington 597 has a advantage over the Ruger. Also, lest we forget that the 597 is significantly less expensive, and that some models supply you with a pre-mounted scope and two magazines. That’s a lot of value for $200, even if the scope is not the best (spoiler alert: it isn’t the best).

Remington Model 597 Accessories

Speaking of the Ruger 10/22: add-ons, mods, and accessories for the Remington 597 are not as abundent as with other .22LR rifles (like the Ruger). First off, the 597 is younger in years, so it may not be as widely-known as other rifles. In other words, there is less chance of shops keeping stock specifically for the Remington 597. Regardless of this, some of the first few mods and accessories people get are:

• Sling: Before anything. Sure, the 597 is only 5.5 lbs, but even that can become a nuisance after a while. Get yourself a proper sling, and see how much easier carrying the 597 gets. A good sling will also help you get into position quicker, and achieve a more secure stance.
• Stock, Trigger, Extractor, and/or Hammer: These replacements are also a move which many make upon purchasing this rifle. The factory parts of the 597 are okay, but there are some great aftermarket products which are available.

If you plan on shooting your rifle a lot a lot, you need to be as ready and comfortable as you can be. You need to be able to rely on your firearm. You may choose to not replace a thing. It all depends on you and your intended use for this rifle.

• Archangel Kit: This is a popular conversion kit which helps the 597 achieve the look and feel of an M4. I know, I know – “if you want an M4, get an M4”. Yeah yeah. Nevertheless, it is one of the most attractive looks for the Remington 597. It comes with a 6-position buttstock, finger-grooved pistol grip with storage space, and the ability to freefloat the barrel. It provides quad picatinny rails, and is designed for comfort and superior control of your 597.

Conclusion

The 597 is a great rifle for beginners and veterans alike. The rifle itself is inexpensive, it is accurate and reliable, and its ammo is highly accessible. It feels great in your hands, and it is a real pleasure to fire. It is not the rifle of choice for everyone, and from the research I did it seems there is almost a “love it or leave it” kind of relationship going on with this firearm. Either way, I really enjoy this rifle, and I hope that newer, more advanced models of the 597 will be making their way to us.

Other than targets, plinking, and small game, the Remington 597 may not have a lot of other uses. Most people won’t use it as a self-defense or home-defense option, but rather just a small/backup hunting rifle, or all around plinker. It is a bit too long for effective close quarter engagement, but obviously if that is what you have, just roll with it. The .22 LR is a well-known cartridge, with its share of benefits, and Remington’s 597 is one of the most widely-used .22LR auto-loading rifles in the United States. Remington knew exactly what they were doing when they released this affordable, on-point, and altogether awesome rifle into the world.

Thanks for reading our Remington 597 feature – check out some of our other reviews on guns like the New Glock 17 & 19 Gen 5, 26, 30, SIG P228, and Kel-Tec KSG. It’s all here at Gunivore!

The post Remington Model 597 (22LR) Long Rifle Review appeared first on Gunivore.

Table of Contents

• Nomenclature
• History
• Cartridge Explained
• Ballistics
• Pros and Cons
• Which Gun Companies Utilize the .40 S&W?
• Matchups
• Comparable Cartridges
• Vs. 10mm Auto
• Vs. .45 GAP
• Vs. .357 SIG
• Pricing
• Conclusion

For a more modern round, there is a fair amount of talk regarding the .40 S&W. Some say it is a dying cartridge, while others say it will be around for many more years. Well, I’m not here to give my opinion on that issue. This is the internet, after all, where anything and everything can (and does) invariably happen, so I don’t want to say anything too absolute. Let more experienced folk give their idea on where it is headed – I’ll stick to talking about what I know. Now, from the rather limited amount of shooting I have done with .40 caliber guns, I must say that I was fairly impressed with the quality of the round. Perhaps I need to do some more shooting before I have a settled opinion, but that is my impression, anyway.

Designed in 1990, the .40 S&W is a bullet which is constantly being compared to the .45 and 9mm Parabellum rounds. More on that later. First off, let’s get the lowdown on this cartridge’s history and origins. Oh by the way, welcome to The Definitive .40 S&W Ammo Guide.

.40 S&W Explained

What Does S&W Stand for? What Does .40 S&W Mean?

.40 refers to the diameter of the bullet, and it is named so after the Smith & Wesson firearms company, which contributed to its design. The metric size of this cartridge is 10X22mm, only a fraction of an inch smaller than that of the FBI’s short-lived 10mm Auto cartridges, which are 10X25mm. “The FBI,” you ask? What have they got to do with it? Well, here’s how it all went down.

A History of the .40 S&W: Invention, Original Use, Adaption

After the famous Miami shootout of 1986, the Federal Bureau of Investigations was looking for a new service cartridge. In the aftermath of the shooting, it was deemed that 9mm rounds were not powerful enough to serve as a sidearm cartridge. The FBI adopted the 10mm Auto cartridge in 1989, but its recoil proved to be too powerful. Shortly after the 10mm Auto was selected, the Bureau’s higher-ups contacted arms manufacturers Smith & Wesson and Winchester, and requested they design a new bullet, tailored to FBI specifications.

The proposed cartridge was to be modeled after the reduced-velocity FBI brand of 10mm Auto cartridges, they said, but be with a more manageable recoil factor. Furthermore, it should be able to be retrofitted to medium-sized, 9mm handguns. That was a tall order to fill, but Smith & Wesson and Winchester – two of America’s finest and largest firearms manufacturers – were up to the task. What they brought in for testing and evaluation is the cartridge known as .40 S&W. Brought into service in 1990, this round is one of the more modern additions to the growing family of American-made cartridges. It was designed, first and foremost, as a service and law-enforcement cartridge, meant to replace the 10mm Auto.

.40 S&W Cartridge Explained

The .40 S&W is a rimless cartridge, and essentially a shortened version of the 10mm Auto. The FBI wanted the 10mm Auto’s ballistic capabilities in a smaller package, and the .40 S&W is exactly that. Except for the length of the case and of the cartridge itself – which were shortened for retrofitting – the .40 S&W retains many of the 10mm Auto’s characteristics. However, note that the two rounds are not interchangeable, certainly not in a semi-automatic weapon. Those minuscule fractions of an inch make a very big difference when the pressure builds up around the cartridge.

.40 S&W Ballistic Performance Overview

So, the FBI was satisfied with the performance of the 10mm Auto, but wanted something with less recoil. How does the .40 S&W do, ballistically? Here is a quick rundown of the ballistic properties of the .40 S&W round, in various grain sizes and casings (source: Wikipedia).

Ballistics for the .40 S&W are similar to that of the 10mm Auto, precisely as the FBI wanted. The 10mm Auto usually comes in heavier grains, but as an example let’s compare the two at 180 grain: The .40 S&W reaches 1,050 fps, and hits with 598 Joules of energy. The 10mm Auto will reach 1,030 feet per second, and hit the target with 575 Joules.

Pretty close, right? And that is what the FBI wanted. If you are looking to stay away from another 1986 Miami shootout situation – as the FBI was – you need something with more stopping power than the 9mm bullets which were around at the time. By the way, 9mm rounds these days are more sophisticated, and the FBI – along with other agencies – is actually in the process of shifting back to 9mm Parabellum. In the spring of 2016, the FBI awarded Glock with a multi-million dollar contract for 9mm guns.

View this post on Instagram

Sunday Gunday #40sw #40cal #pewpew

A post shared by Marcus James (@juztryit) on Dec 18, 2016 at 9:23am PST

.40 S&W Pros and Cons

The .40 round is fun to shoot overall, but there have been stories and some evidence of malfunctions happening with over-pressurization. The ammo can come pretty cheap, it is accessible, and it produces a more mild recoil than other 10mm diameter rounds. However, remember that it was designed as a service cartridge. It doesn’t have too many uses besides that. It is no good as a hunting round, and it can prove to be too expensive for target practice.

Since it is a heavier round, it won’t fly as fast as, say, a 9mm. But again, for self-defense purposes it works just fine. It has enough stopping power and is fast enough to reach any target within considerable distance. The effective range of a .40 S&W is more than enough for most armed confrontations. It comes down to the shooter’s skill.

Which Gun Companies Utilize the .40 S&W?

Glock

• Glock 22: semi-automatic, full size, striker fired, recoil operated.
• Glock 23: semi-automatic, compact, striker fired, recoil operated.
• Glock 27: semi-automatic, subcompact, striker fired, blowback operated.

Kahr

• K40: semi-automatic, compact, double-action-only, recoil operated.
• P40: semi-automatic, compact, double-action-only, short-recoil operated.
• CW40: a budget-friendly version of the P40.

Walther

• PPX: semi-automatic, full size, hammer fired, double-action-only.
• PPS: semi-automatic, subcompact, striker fired, double-action-only.
• P99: semi-automatic, full size, striker fired, double-action/single-action.

SIG Sauer

• P229: semi-automatic, compact, double-action/single-action.
• P226: semi-automatic, full size, double-action-only OR double-action/single-action.
• P320: semi-automatic, size varies, striker fired, short recoil operated.

Springfield

• XD4: semi-automatic, full size, striker fired, double-action-only.
• XDM: semi-automatic, compact, striker fired, double-action-only.
• XD-S: semi-automatic, subcompact, striker fired, double-action-only.

Smith and Wesson

• M&P .40: semi-automatic, compact, striker fired, double-action-only.

Matchups

Here is how the .40 compares to other rounds:

The Age Old Debate: .40 S&W vs. 9mm vs. .45 ACP

This is one of the older debates around, which was sparked as soon as old .40 S&W made an appearance. The argument over speed and stopping power of these three is alive and kicking, and in a way the .40 is a middle ground between the other two. This is an advantage and a disadvantage in one, being a compromise kind of round. It all depends on how you look at it, and – more importantly – on your intended use.

.40 S&W vs. 10mm Auto

Well, this was covered a bit earlier, seeing as how the .40’s parent case is a 10mm Auto. The .40 can really do everything a 10mm Auto can do, and at a cheaper cost. And, as mentioned, the recoil of the 10mm Auto is more substantial.

.40 S&W vs. .45 GAP

These two are also quite similar as far as energy, penetration, and wounding is concerned. .45 GAP are wider and usually heavier than .40 S&W. Ammo for the .40 S&W is less expensive, and works just as good.

.40 S&W vs. .357 SIG

The things that jumps out before anything is the price. .357 SIG is more expensive. .357 is more of a flat trajectory bullet, and it is generally lighter than .40 S&W. It came out in 1994, several years after the .40, but it packs a punch. Most .40 S&W guns can be converted to .357 SIG by replacing the barrel. They have a lot in common.

.40 S&W Pricing

Prices of ammunition rise and fall with the times. Politics, policies, and business trends shift, and with them so does the firearm industry. The price per round is approximately 24 – 28 cents, and in some cases (quite literally), it can be found for 18 cents a round. Always make sure to take advantage of any deals, shows, or sales that are happening, and you should be able to get the best bang for your buck.

Conclusion

The .40 S&W is a round with a short, yet loaded, history. Being “stuck” in the middle, between the 9mm Parabellum and the .45 ACP, it is a cartridge which has been the focus of some debate. Not as fast as the 9mm, and not as powerful as the .45, the .40 round has seen its share of law-enforcement action, and is now being phased out. But that does not mean it is dead or dying. It is here to stay. The .40 has been the center of some controversy, too, with extra pressure being a prime suspect of various failures and explosions. Nevertheless, there are people – civilian and servicemen alike – who still entrust their lives to their .40 S&W weapons on a daily basis. It all comes down to you and your abilities. It is a great self-defense round, but is rather limited for other uses.

The post The Definitive .40 S&W Ammo Guide appeared first on Gunivore.

The .45 ACP (Automatic Colt Pistol) was forged in battle. In the late 19th century, the U.S. Army was looking for a round to replace their .38 caliber cartridges. The American forces needed something with more stopping power than their standard issue, and Colt answered the call. The .45 ACP was designed by smithing legend John Browning in 1904, and it was adopted in 1910 by the U.S. forces, who also adopted the Colt Model 1911 firearm at the time as an official addition to the military arsenal, designated M1911. Below we’ll cover all of the important points of this hugely important bullet in our Definitive .45 ACP Ammo Guide.

.45 ACP Explained

What Does ACP Stand for? What Does .45 ACP Mean?

Automatic Colt Pistol was the name given to the series of cartridges designed by John Browning at the beginning of the 19th century. There are five ACP cartridges, the largest of which is the .45 caliber.

A History of the .45 ACP: Invention, Original Use, Adaption

The Philippine-American War (1899-1902) proved that there simply was not enough power behind the bullets which were fired at the time. After the war was over, the U.S. Army’s Generals went shopping for a new kind of cartridge, one which would be powerful enough to neutralize human targets on impact, but small enough to be carried by the common infantry and cavalry troops.

Browning and Colt were experimenting with various pistol calibers at the time, so when the U.S. Army and Cavalry asked Colt to submit a design for a bullet in a .45 caliber, Colt modified its .41 pistol – which was still in its prototype phase – and moved on to bigger and better things with the .45 caliber. The result of this was the .45 ACP cartridge, which Colt submitted for inspection to the military in 1906.

The new round blew the competition away, and after a series of tests and trials it was announced as the winner. After several more modifications were made, at the behest of the U.S. Army, the new and advanced “Cal. .45 Automatic Pistol Ball Cartridge, Model of 1911” was adopted by the military. The M1911 was produced until 1970, and only in 1986 was the Beretta M9 (9mm) brought in to replace it as the standard U.S. sidearm. That is one hell of a long run, and it goes to show how effective the .45 ACP bullet is in combat.

.45 ACP Cartridge Explained

The .45 bullet (11X23mm) is a round which is accurate and deadly. It comes in relatively heavy loads, due to its size. This is an advantage to some, and a disadvantages to others. It depends on the intended use, really. The .45 ACP comes in a wide range of weight and performance levels, so there is a lot to work around. It’s not a cur and dry kind of situation. The .45 caliber was used for decades by the military, and for good reason. While it may not be as fast as a 9mm bullet, it hits with a much greater punch.

.45 ACP Ballistics Performance Overview

Here is a quick rundown of the ballistic properties of the .45 ACP round, in various grain sizes and casings (source: Wikipedia).

Ballistics have a much greater effect when you are talking about military uses. In civilian uses, most armed confrontations occur within a distance of 5-10 yards. Within those short ranges, the ballistics don’t make that big of a difference. Ballistics are all about a projectile’s speed, mass, and force. When you are talking about the .45 ACP, you can see that the larger loads are inherently slower, but the bullet is nevertheless effective because of its sheer size.

View this post on Instagram

αlmσnd вrєєzє σr 2%?? вrєαkfαѕt σf wαrríσrѕ. α truє wαrríσr fєєlѕ fєαr ѕσmєtímєѕ вut ѕαчѕ єfff ít !! @concealed_carry_nation #momentoftruth #momentofclarity #gunporn #hollowpoint #glock30 #45acp

A post shared by Painkiller™️ (@iamchuurch) on Dec 18, 2016 at 8:26am PST

.45 ACP Pros and Cons: Speed vs. Stopping Power

The energy and penetration capabilities of the .45 ACP round have made it a law-enforcement favorite, but along with the good comes the bad. The main drawback of the .45 ACP, especially when considering police and military use, is that its larger size and weight means that there is less speed and less firepower. I mean that literally – there is less room in a .45 caliber magazine. Many .45 ACP guns use single stack magazines, and even those who utilize a double-stack offer less rounds per mag, especially when compared to smaller calibers like the 9mm.

The .45 is also slower, as I mentioned, which could be detrimental in certain situations. However, consider that it was good enough for the U.S. Armed Forces for many decades – that says a lot.

Which Gun Companies Utilize the .45 ACP?

Many arms manufacturers still produce guns chambered in .45 ACP. Here is a partial list of some of them, and a few popular models.

Glock

• Glock 21: semi-automatic, full size, striker fired.
• Glock 30: semi-automatic, compact, short recoil, striker fired.
• Glock 36: semi-automatic, subcompact, short recoil, striker fired.

Ruger

• SR1911: semi-automatic, full size, short-recoil, single-action-only.
• American Pistol 8615: semi-automatic, full size, striker fired.
• SR45: semi-automatic, full size, striker fired.

Taurus

• PT1911: semi-automatic, full size, short recoil, single-action only.
• 24/7 G2: semi-automatic, compact, short recoil, double-action/single-action.
• PT845: semi-automatic, full size, short-recoil, double-action/single-action.

SIG Sauer

• P220: semi-automatic, full size, short recoil, double-action/single-action.
• 1911 C3: semi-automatic, compact, short recoil, single-action-only.
• P227: semi-automatic, full size, short recoil, double-action/single-action.

Springfield

• XD-45: semi-automatic, full size, short recoil, striker fired.
• GI45: semi-automatic, subcompact, short recoil, single-action-only.
• Loaded 1911: semi-automatic, subcompact, short recoil, single-action-only.

Smith and Wesson

• M&P 45 Shield: semi-automatic, full size, short recoil, striker fired.
• SW1911 Compact: semi-automatic, compact, short recoil, single-action-only.
• Governor: revolver, compact, single-action/double-action.

.45 ACP Matchups

Many times, a difference of several millimeters can have a huge impact on the power, speed, and penetration capabilities of a projectile. Engineers are continuously working to perfect handgun cartridges and make them more effective. How does the .45 ACP perform, compared to other popular calibers?

The Age Old Debate: .45 ACP vs .9mm vs .40 S&W

These three cartridges are always being argued over. It is a constant, classic battle of power vs. speed. What are the differences between the three? Above all else, there is the actual difference in diameter. The .45 ACP measures 11mm, the .40 10mm, and the 9mm is – wait for it! – 9mm.

The .45 ACP is the biggest cartridge of the three. As such, you won’t get the same kind of magazine capacity as you would with the other two cartridges. The .45’s are larger, and they weigh more. It is a somewhat slower, yet highly effective projectile, which is why it was selected as the Army’s go-to combat bullet. The 9mm (referring here to the 9X19mm Parabellum) is one of the first cartridges for semi-automatic handguns. Light, effective, and accurate, it is the champion of 9mm-diameter bullets. It is significantly lighter than the .45 ACP, and it offers greater velocity than either the .40 or the .45 bullets. The .40 bullet is the most modern one of the three, having made its first appearance in the mid-1990’s. It is considered a middle point between the 9mm and .45 bullets. It is known to be heavier and slower than the 9mm, but lighter and faster than the .45 ACP.

With these three, it is always a question of intended use and/or personal preference. Some will not be fans of the .40’s recoil or loud report. Some won’t be fans of the .45’s lower magazine capacity. Some won’t be satisfied with the 9mm’s stopping power. It is a matter of speed and power, so every shooter has his or her personal idea on which is best. All three are great cartridges, and remember that the 9mm and .45 have been around for over a century – for good reason.

.45 ACP vs 10mm

The 10mm (10X25mm) is considered more of an outdoor cartridge, for hunting and longer-range shooting, due to its flatter trajectory. It has a notable extra-loud report, which is a consideration when looking for a home-defense cartridge. Designed in the early 1980’s, it is still being produced today. Like the .45, it uses relatively heavier loads, starting at about 180 grain. 10mm ammo is generally more expensive, so that may also be a consideration for some.

.45 ACP vs .45 G.A.P

The .45 GAP (Glock Automatic Pistol) is a shortened version of the .45 ACP. It has the same diameter as the .45 ACP, but has a shorter primer and a smaller build. It was introduced in 2003, along with the Glock 37 pistol. For a while, it made an attempt to compete with the .45 ACP. The maximum weight of the .45 GAP is 200 grain, which is significantly lower than that of the .45 ACP. Nowadays, only Glock manufactures pistols chambered in .45 GAP.

.45 ACP vs .380 ACP

Browning’s ACP series consisted of five calibers, and of those five, the .45 and .380 are considered rimless cartridges. The .380 is a 9X17mm bullet, and as a 9mm round it retains some of the advantages of the aforementioned 9X19mm Parabellum round – lightness, speed, accuracy. Smaller loads of even less than 100 grain can reach high velocities and cause significant amounts of damage, especially at shorter ranges.

The .380 ACP round is famous for being used in the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand before WWI, and it was a cartridge which was adopted by several nations as a standard, before the eruption of WWII. Compared with the .45 ACP, it has greater speed, less energy, and the capacity for greater firepower per mag.

.45 ACP vs .45 Colt

The .45 Colt (also known as Long Colt) was designed in 1872, way before the .45 ACP ever hit the stage. It was adopted by the U.S. Army in 1873, and was the standard revolver cartridge for 14 years. It is a 11X33mm cartridge, and it is still being produced today, primarily for hunting purposes. The bullet diameter is the same as the ACP, but other than that it is a very different cartridge. The case, the guns which can fire it, and the round’s ballistics are all different.

.45 ACP vs .40 S&W

The .40 S&W was developed as a law enforcement cartridge back in 1990. It is a 10X22mm cartridge, and when compared to the .45 ACP, the .40 S&W holds greater speed capabilities, but usually has greater recoil. The .45 ACP, on the other hand, has better penetration, and a much longer track record of over 100 years. .40 S&W cartridges are less expensive than .45 ACP.

.45 ACP Pricing

.45 ACP rounds will run approximately 30 – 35 cents per round (brass), and for reloads it will be about 17 – 20 cents per round. As always, ammo prices are manipulated and affected by politics, policies, and various ‘scares.’ .45 ACP cartridges are highly accessible, and they can be found online and offline in many locations. Like every other commodity, the price of ammunition rises and falls with the times. Keep your eyes wide, and you will be able to find a good deal somewhere.

Conclusion

As one of the oldest cartridges around, the .45 ACP is certainly holding its own. There is no doubt about it – John Browning was a genius. Many contemporary gunsmiths, weapons enthusiasts, and every day carriers owe a lot to the man who invented the .45 ACP round, among others. Even after all these years, it is considered a great round for self-defense and tactical situations alike. It might be heavier and larger than some of the other popular calibers, but it makes up for that with its sheer stopping power and quick follow up capabilities. At short ranges (which comprise the vast majority of all armed encounters), it is nothing short of deadly. Highly recommended, especially for those who find that 9mm simply isn’t cutting it.

Thanks for checking out our .45 guide. Be sure to check out some of our other features – like our Glock 30 and M16 reviews – here at Gunivore!

The post The Definitive .45 ACP Ammo Guide appeared first on Gunivore.

When it comes to handguns, the 9mm is probably the world’s most popular caliber. Seriously, there aren’t many which can rival its place in the world of firearms. Among 9mm cartridges, the undisputed champion of them all has got to be the 9X19mm Parabellum. It is considered a powerful round, capable of being used in many scenarios and situations, from tactical military or police action, to civilian self- and home-defense.

In this article we will be taking an in-depth look at the 9mm cartridge, and specifically at the 9X19mm Parabellum – its history, its evolution, and its modern uses. I really enjoyed writing this article, since it gave me a chance to learn a lot of new things about the 9mm bullet, which is so very often taken for granted. This bullet diameter first made an appearance towards the end of the 19th century, and subsequently took over the world. How? Well, keep on reading our 9mm Bullet: 9x19mm Parabellum Definitive Guide.

Evolution of the 9mm Bullet

Firearms manufacturers Colt and Smith & Wesson were probably the first to introduce the 9mm diameter cartridge to the industry. But wait, let’s explain a thing or two.

What Does 9mm Even Mean?

First off, 9mm equals 0.35 inches. When someone refers to a 9mm, it could be one of two things: either the diameter of a bullet, or that of a gun barrel. These are not the same thing. You could have a barrel chambered for a wider caliber, which is able to fire narrower rounds

In other words, if taking the 9X19mm Parabellum as an example – that is only one type of 9mm round. It has a 9mm diameter bullet (aka projectile), held in place by a 19mm long bullet case (which holds the powder and ignites) – hence, the round was titled 9X19mm. Mostly, when someone uses the term “9mm”, they are referring to the 9X19 Parabellum cartridge. It is that popular. Think of it kind of like you would Kleenex and tissues – it transcends its category.

What is a Parabellum Bullet, Anyway?

The word Parabellum comes from Latin, and it means “prepare for war.” It was part of the slogan for German arms manufacturer Deutsche Waffen- und Munitionsfabriken Aktien-Gesellschaft (DWM), which is where the 9X19mm Parabellum was created. The full slogan is Si vis pacem, para bellum (“If you seek peace, prepare for war”).

The inventor of the Parabellum bullet is Georg Luger, and the bullet itself was first introduced in 1902, made especially for DWM’s new Luger Semi-Automatic pistol. The 9X19 was not the first Parabellum bullet to come out from under Luger’s hands. Before the 9mm diameter, there was a 7.65X21mm Parabellum, which was not as successful. The 7mm round later became the 9X19 Parabellum which we all know and love.

Origins of the 9mm

Rounds with a 9mm diameter had been around for some time before 1902, being used primarily as revolver cartridges for firearms produced by Colt and Smith & Wesson. The first 9mm diameter bullets were produced for the U.S. Army in 1875, by Colt’s Manufacturing Company, and they were 9X26mm. In 1877, Smith & Wesson introduced a 9X20mm revolver bullet. Later on, European manufacturers caught on, and 9mm diameter bullets became all the rage in personal weapons. Over time, there have probably been close to 100 – if not more – bullets with a 9mm diameter.

The 7.65X21mm Parabellum round didn’t meet the expectations of shooters, and Mr. Lugar went back to the drawing board and attempted to work out the kinks and perfect it. He succeeded. Out of the ashes of the 7mm Parabellum came the 9mm Parabellum, which has remained popular for over a century, and it not showing any signs of slowing down.

9X19mm Parabellum Ballistics Performance Review

Ballistics all have to do with a bullet’s energy transfer and trajectory. Part of what makes the 9X19mm Parabellum so prevalent is its ballistic performance. Some grain loads work better than others, but overall it retains some decent ballistics. It is for this reason that it is used in civilian, military, and law-enforcement encounters.

Here is a quick rundown of the ballistic properties of the 9X19mm round, in various grain sizes and casings (source: Wikipedia).

The 9mm is great for personal defense and police work, since it is extremely accurate at short distances. The ballistics show us that at 50 yards out – with zero wind conditions – a 9mm round will experience a 1.8-inch drop. In other words, if you are aiming at a target that is 50 yards away, you will hit it dead on at the center mass region.

At 100 yards, thing are already looking very different. By the time the bullet reaches the 100 yard mark (at about 1,200 feet per second, that’s something like 290 milliseconds) it will have already dropped about 12 inches – a whole foot. Once it starts to go down, it goes down pretty fast. If you are aiming at a target 100 yards away, you will have to aim a foot higher in order to reach the center mass. That is a difficult shot to pull off.

So, not too effective for longer ranges. On the other hand, it is not meant to be a long range bullet. It has been established long ago that most armed encounters will occur within 5 yards, approximately. At those distances, it is an accurate and deadly messenger. Okay, so the 9mm Parabellum is awesome. This brings us to the question…

Which Gun Companies Utilize the 9mm?

Here is a short list of well-known manufacturers who produce guns in 9mm caliber. Just a small taste of the models they offer in 9mm Parabellum.

Glock

• Glock 17: Glock’s very first handgun. Full size, semi-automatic, striker fired.
• Glock 19: compact size, semi-automatic, striker fired.
• Glock 26: subcompact size semi-automatic, striker fired.

Smith and Wesson

• SD9: semi-automatic, striker fired, has several variants.
• SW1911: semi-automatic, single action, with many variants.
• M&P9: semi-automatic, short recoil, has several variants and sizes.
• M&P9C Compact: compact version of the M&P9.

Springfield Armory

• XD M series: competition guns, semi-automatic, short recoil, striker fired.
• XD S series: concealment guns, semi-automatic, double action, striker fired.
• 1911 series: semi-automatic, varying actions, varying sizes.

Ruger

• LCR: 5-round, double-action revolver.
• LC9: short recoil operated, semi-automatic pistol.
• SR9: short recoil, locked breech action, semi-automatic pistol.

Beretta

• 92FS: semi-automatic, double-action/single-action pistol.
• M9: the military version of the civilian 92FS.
• PX4: semi-automatic, comes in several actions and sizes.

Taurus

• PT111 G2: semi-automatic, double-action only, short recoil, locked breech.
• 1911B-9: semi-automatic, single-action.
• PT709: semi-automatic, double-action then single-action.

SIG Sauer

• P226: semi-automatic, double-action only OR double-action/single-action, recoil-operated.
• P228: semi-automatic, double-action only OR double-action/single-action, recoil-operated.
• P210: semi-automatic, single action, short recoil operated.

9mm Matchups

It is truly amazing, the kind of difference that a few tenths (or sometimes hundredths!) of an inch can make. We went a bit into the origin of the 9mm round, but how does the 9mm Parabellum measure up against other popular 9mm diameter bullets? Let’s find out!

The Age Old Debate: 9mm vs .40 S&W vs .45 ACP

The debate over which of these cartridges is more powerful/useful has been around for years, and it will probably continue on being debated until the cows come home with semi-automatic weapons and make short work of us all. So, what are the main differences between them?

Well, first off, there is the actual caliber difference. The 9mm is, well, 9mm. The .40 is 10mm, and the .45 is 11.43mm. The 9mm was one of the first cartridges for a semi-automatic. It is an effective bullet, and it generally comes in lighter loads of weight: 95 – 147 grain, usually. It is lighter, yes, but on the other hand it offers greater velocity than the other two bullets in question.

With the .40 bullet, many times people will either love it or hate it. It’s a kind of “sandwich” round, stuck between the 9mm and .45 ACP.  However, it isn’t just a middle cartridge. It has merits of its own, and in a way it offers the best of both worlds – it is a good speed/mass combination of the 9mm and .45. A .40 bullet is usually heavier than a 9mm, starting at 120 grains, and working up to 180 for your everyday loads. The .40 is faster than the .45 and slower than the 9mm. Bullets in the .40 variety are normally under more pressure, since – being heavier – they need more power to eject them properly from the barrel. The .40 bullet is the more modern of the three.

The .45 ACP (stands for Automatic Colt Pistol) was designed in 1904. It is a bigger cartridge, meaning that you will not be getting as much firepower as you would with the other two cartridges. In fact, many .45 magazines are single-stack, and even those which are double-stacked offer less capacity due to the weight and size of the bullet. The .45’s maximum grain usage tops out at 230 grains, and there is a pretty big jump between the masses of the .40 and .45. More weight means less speed, so the .45 is a slow, yet highly effective, round. A real combat bullet. It is essentially a question of speed versus force, and every shooter has his or her favorite, depending on the intended use.

View this post on Instagram

Very cool gift!! Bourbon bottle full of 9mm rounds. #woodfordreserve #9mm #America

A post shared by Michael (@m.gerard89) on Dec 17, 2016 at 9:25pm PST

9mm vs .38 Special

The .38 Special is mainly used in revolvers, and it has less speed and power than a 9mm. Again, these two cartridges have the same bullet diameter, but different cartridge size. It is a 9X29mm bullet, so it has a lot more height than the 9X19mm Parabellum. As a revolver round, it is extremely popular, and it has been around for over 100 years.

9mm vs .380 ACP

A .380 has a diameter of 9mm, but the cartridge itself is shorter and the bullet is more rounded out. For this reason, there are a lot of slim and subcompact guns chambered in .380. It naturally lends itself to smaller guns, being a smaller cartridge. The diameter of a .380 is 9X17mm, and the Parabellum is 9X19mm – you can see how close these are, size wise, but the two mm difference goes a long way.

The .380 offers less penetration abilities and less stopping power, because it is a smaller. On the other hand, the .380 can fit into much smaller frames, so it is definitely a go-to bullet for concealed carry. As a “when-things-hit-the-fan” kind of bullet, it is highly effective. You don’t need the velocity, force, or mass of a 9mm if what you are going for is a quick shot in a tight spot. The .380 will be just as effective as a 9mm.

9mm vs .357 SIG

At 9X22mm, the .357 SIG is a relatively new addition to the 9mm lineup. It was first introduced in the mid-1990’s, and its case is designed in a way which generates greater speed. The .357 SIG is faster than a 9mm because its case is a .40 case. In other words, it is bigger, and can hold more powder, which helps to send its 9mm bullet off faster than the Parabellum. Those who are not fans of the .40 caliber round will probably not get into this bullet. It is louder, and it produces more recoil, making follow-up shots slightly more difficult for the inexperienced shooter.

9mm Ammo Pricing

Whether in bulk or not, whether its a 50-round box or 1000 – 9mm Parabellum will not cost too much. It is one of the more moderately priced cartridges, because it is so popular and accessible. Regardless of the grain weight of the cartridge, you will be able to find it easily. Ammo manufacturers everywhere produce tons of 9mm ammo, and even during the “ammo scare” of 2008 – 2014, you could find 9mm rounds pretty much wherever you went.

The actual pricing changes from place to place, online and offline, so you need to research and figure out which deal is best for you. There is always a sale somewhere, just keep your eyes open. 9mm rounds will cost approximately 20 – 25 cents per round (brass), and for reloads it will be about 14 – 16 cents per round.

Conclusion

There is a reason why the 9mm Parabellum has been used for over a century. It is accurate, it is lethal, and it proved to be a standard behind which countries and organizations can rally. Self-defense short-range weapons chambered in 9mm are guaranteed to always have a market, becuase it is a cartridge which has proven itself in countless confrontations around the world. It is common, readily available, and fairly-priced. There are variants of the 9mm, and of course they have their place. Nevertheless, the 9X19mm Parabellum is the quintessential 9mm cartridge.

Thanks for reading our 9mm feature! Check out our Kel-Tec KSG and M16 features while you’re here at Gunivore – home of all things guns!

The post The 9mm Bullet: 9x19mm Parabellum Definitive Guide appeared first on Gunivore.

Table of Contents

• Specs
• Action and Shooting
• Stock
• Magazines and Sights
• Safety and Assembly
• 12 Gauge vs 20 Gauge
• Price
• Model 1100 Competition Synthetic Review
• Conclusion

The Model 1100, by Remington Arms, is a shotgun I am completely head over heels for. Remington has a number of guns I admire – namely the 1187, 770, and 870, but the 1100 might just be my favorite. It’s a semi-auto which makes no excuses, delivers results, and manages to stay popular after more than 50 years of production. It is a solid, low-priced, skeet and trap shooting favorite. Recently, to mark the company’s bicentennial, a 200th Anniversary Limited Edition version was released. If any of you were thinking of getting me a birthday present, this would be a good time to pay attention. Hint hint.

This shotgun was designed and introduced in the early 1960’s, and part of the reason why it received such critical acclaim was due to the fact that it was lighter, more manageable, and more reliable than other semi-autos which were around at the time. This made quite a difference, and during the 60’s many new gauges and versions were introduced. Newer models are still being made today. Here is a glance at some of the 1100’s tech specs. This review will be pertaining to one of the cheaper options, the 20 gauge 1100 Sporting Series shotgun. I will explain a little bit about the other models later on. I did some research on them, but I didn’t get a chance to try any of them out. Yet. Hint hint. Oh yeah – welcome to our Remington Model 1100 Tactical Shotgun Review.

Remington Model 1100 Specs

• Caliber – 20 gauge (also comes in 12 gauge, 28 gauge, and .410 bore)
• Action – Gas-operated semi-automatic
• Length – 49 inches
• Barrel length – Varies by model: 28 inches
• Weight – 7 lbs
• Stock – Black Polymer
• Sights – Twin beads
• Capacity – 4 +1 rounds
• Finish – Polished blue on the receiver, and glossy stock
• Introduced – 1998
• MSRP – $1254

On the surface, this seems pretty standard. But when you actually grab hold of this shotgun, you see just how much engineering and ingenuity had gone into designing and producing this firearm. I love the way it feels, I love the way you can get into position and quickly unload that magazine while shooting clays, and I absolutely love the price. Like I said – gaga.

Remington Model 1100 Action and Shooting

A semi-auto, gas-operated action on a shotgun? That was pretty revolutionary back in the day. During the 1960’s, many different shotguns were coming out, but this one managed to stand out anyway. It is an easy gun to load and shoot, it cycles beautifully, and the action provides you with quick follow-ups.

It is the kind of shotgun which you can shoot all day and not get tired. It is just light enough, there isn’t too much kick, and it is on target. The 1100 comes with several interchangeable choke tubes: Skeet, Improved Cylinder, Light Modified, and Modified. Some will simply install the skeet choke and be done with it, but others want the keep their option of a wider or narrower spread.

Remington Model 1100 Stock

What can be said about this stock? It’s simple but it works.  I like the American walnut version on the regular model but the black polymer tactical stock is fine too. However, I know some guys who outfitted their 1100 with the Urbino pistol grip stock and they love it.

Remington Model 1100 Magazines and Sights

The 1100 Sporting comes with a standard four-round internal magazine. I actually don’t have anything to say about the magazine. It isn’t anything out of the ordinary. The twin bead sights are also fairly standard, and they serve their purpose well. In a skeet and trap gun, it is essential that the sights help the shooter out without getting in the way, and the twin bead target sights pull that off in a big way. They allow the shooter to focus and get their aim on.

Remington Model 1100 Safety and Assembly

The 1100’s safety is the widely-used cross-bolt safety, which is located at the rear of the trigger guard. If you are a righty, it should be no problem. For lefties, it could go either way. Some left-handed shooters may feel it gets in the way of proper firing, but for others it will not matter whatsoever. It depends on you and your intended use. Since this is a sporting gun, not a field gun, you have to worry less about game noticing the movements of your hand. I mean, you may need to start worrying about such things when they invent clay pigeons with artificial intelligence. Until then, you are probably in the clear.

The 1100 Sporting shotgun is very easy to take apart and reassemble. Field stripping is pretty straightforward. Lock the bolt to the rear, unlocking the barrel. Unscrew the magazine tube cap off, remove the fore-end, and then remove the barrel. Move the bolt forward, and the action should come to the front of the gun. The bolt and its carrier then come out, and you have the option of stripping it down even further by removing a couple of pins and taking the trigger group out. That’s all there is to it.

Some clean their shotguns after every day’s use, but remember that you don’t want to overdo it. It depends on how many rounds went through it, and it depends on if you are looking to clean only, or to lube the gun up as well. Gun grease is a great thing, but there is such a thing as overkill. Pay attention, treat your Remington’s properly, and they will last you for many years. A Remington 1100 is the kind of shotgun that can be handed down, and many choose to do just that. Sure there are newer models, but there is something exciting and nostalgic (for me, anyway) about the idea of handing down a shotgun to the next generation.

Remington Model 1100: 12 Gauge vs 20 Gauge

The old “12 or 20” debate is no debate at all. It all comes down to personal preference and intended use. If you’re a beginner or are extremely sensitive to recoil, then perhaps the 20 gauge will be a better fit. On the other hand, if you need some weight in your hands, and feel that the 20 gauge is too light and quick – look no further than the 12 gauge. Since this is a sporting gun, it isn’t as if you will be marching with it in the woods on a 3-day hunting trip. Well, technically you could, but the point I am trying to make is that you should decide for yourself. Also, ammunition is another consideration. 20 gauge works better with certain kinds of ammo.

For sporting purposes, either gauge is a good way to go. It all depends on you. A lot of skeet and trap shooters out there use 20 gauge guns in situations which are meant for 12 gauge, due to the density of the shot pellets. Hey – when it fits, it fits.

Remington Model 1100 Price

The Model 1100 has a relatively high MSRP, so be sure not to be fooled. It is a great shotgun, of course, but it sells for a lot cheaper then the price suggested by the manufacturer. These guns are still being produced, and there is no problem locating older versions, too. Gun shops, pawn shops, conventions, shows, online bidding sites – you can find a 1100 shotgun in so many places. There have been so many different models since its initial introduction in the early 1960s, you can have your pick of the litter. Some of these models have been discontinued, and those will obviously run you a little more, if they are in mint condition.

Either way, you can pick up a Model 1100 – new or used – for anything from several hundred dollars to over a thousand. It depends on the seller, the condition of the firearm, and the model.

Remington Model 1100 Competition Synthetic Review

The Model 1100 Competition Synthetic was first introduced in 2011. At this time, it is only available in 12 gauge, and it is one of the longer 1100s out there, with a 50½ inch overall length. The barrel itself is 30 inches long, which is why it is perfect for precise and accurate competition shooting. The receiver has a nickel finish, the sights are standard twin beads, and the stock is synthetic and finished in carbon graphite. With a 4-round capacity magazine, and a $1,305 suggested price tag, it is a highly popular 1100 model.

I can’t help but wonder when Remington will get around to releasing different gauges for this gun. I feel it will definitely help them out with sales (not that they need the assistance). Not everyone is into 12 gauge, not even in competitions. I have faith in Remington’s market research department, and I have no doubt they will deliver.

Conclusion

The Model 1100 has so many variations, and if your plan is to shoot skeet, trap, hunt, or participate in competitions, it is a great option. There are many gauges available, and all you have to do is choose. Beginners and advanced shooters alike enjoy the look and feel of the 1100, because even though it is a wallet-friendly shotgun, it does not compromise on quality. The new Model 1100 200th Anniversary Limited Edition 12 gauge has a suggested price tag of $1,999. Just saying.

Thanks for checking out our Remington Model 1100 Shotgun review – for more on Remington, including our Model 700 Rifle and and 702 Plinkster reviews, check out our other blogs here at Gunivore!

The post Remington Model 1100 Shotgun Review appeared first on Gunivore.

Table of Contents

• Specs
• Build
• Shooting
• Magazines and Sights
• Safety and Assembly
• Accessories
• Conclusion

I don’t think there’s any doubt about it – we are in the midst of a ‘Golden Age’ of gun manufacturing and ownership here in the United States. Despite the best efforts of hysterical second amendment-detractors, gun manufacturing is now carried out on an enormous scale, these guns are readily available to us, and production quality is hitting all-time highs all the time. This has caused something of a trickle-down effect in terms of quality assurance in gun purchasing. See, it doesn’t take $1,000 to procure a quality rifle anymore. Thanks to technological developments and manufacturing innovation, quality can be found at every price level – including the cheapest. This is perhaps never more evident than when examining the superb Mossberg 702 Plinkster Rifle.

The Mossberg 702 Plinkster is inexpensive enough to not represent an even moderately significant purchase. The thing is downright cheap. At just over $100 in most states, it’s going to fit in everyone’s budget. I first picked up the 702 when browsing the gun section at Walmart and basically threw the thing in my cart like I would any other item off the shelf. I was in the market for a .22 LR after my Ruger 10/22 failed on me. My beloved Ruger gave me many faithful years of service, but there are only so many thousands of rounds you can put through a rifle before it starts acting up. I digress; I like having a .22 LR around for some casual, less intensive sport shooting and the Plinkster is as perfect as it gets for these purposes. Reasonably accurate, resilient, and consistent, time and time again Mossberg’s little wonder has served me faithfully with no let up in sight. What makes this rifle so special? How has Mossberg managed to produce such a wonderful gun at an eye-popping low price? Well, I’ll let you in on those secrets and more here in our Mossberg 702 Plinkster Rifle Review at Gunivore – the greatest gun website in the history of the internet.

Mossberg 702 Plinkster Rifle Specs

• Model: 702 Plinkster.
• Caliber: .22 Long Rifle.
• Barrel Length: 18 Inches.
• Capacity: 10.
• Finish: Varied.
• Stocks: Synthetic.
• Twist Rate: 1:16.
• Length: 37 Inches.
• Weight: 4.1 Pounds.
• Action: Semi-Automatic.
• Maximum Firing Range: 1.5 Miles.
• Sights: Flip Rear Hooded Front.

Mossberg 702 Plinkster Rifle Build

Originally manufactured by a Brazilian company called CBC, Mossberg got its hands on the 702 and improved on its design for North American markets. Featuring a “last-shot” bolt hold open design, as well as a receiver setup modeled on a variant of the Marlin Model 60 (note the rounded stock and receiver), the 702 is reasonably straight forward in its build. The most enjoyable aspect of the build would have to be its extreme light weight feel (4.1 lbs), which is thanks in large part to its utilization of synthetic materials and a cheaper stock set. Now because of this, you’re not going to be getting the most rugged gun in the world, but the Plinkster will still hold up reasonably well through some haphazard handling and use. The 702 is so light that you’re going to just want to sling it over your shoulder and go, and that’s exactly what it’s capable of doing – this is your perfect, ‘treat it however you’d like, don’t worry about it’ kind of gun. I actually liken this to smartphone purchasing – sure, you can get yourself an iPhone 7, but the thing is so vulnerable outside of a case that you’re going to be terrified of dropping your ~$1000 investment. Sometimes you’re better off going with a reliable, value-buy instead.

Amazingly, the Mossberg 702 has never given me any issues. Truth be told, I don’t even bother to clean it or care for it like I probably should – I don’t get too fussed over a little add-on gun like this. It’s not going to be the star of any gun collection, but if you need an extra rifle for plinking, small hunting, pest-control, or are simply looking to buy a starter rifle for a friend or a loved one, Mossberg has you covered. Pink and wooden stocks are even available if you’re willing to spend just a little more. Despite its cheaper price and build, the 702 still does its job remarkably well. For a nice, affordable, rifle, you’re not going to find much better. It doesn’t come with any bells or whistles, but you have to know what you’re getting into when you buy a cheaper rifle like this. It’s about going back to basics when you handle a 702 – just fire away.

Mossberg 702 Plinkster Rifle Shooting

Picking up a 702 for the first time, you might feel some concern that its light weight is going to make for a difficult shooting experience. This could not be further from the case. All 4 pounds of this baby handle well, and the rifle barely jumps when firing – as opposed to some rifles that will run you several times the price of the 702 and buck like a bronco when shooting. Although the rifle is a little on the small side for me personally in terms of mounting, I still have no trouble hitting my soda cans and paper targets from various distances. With a slight rifle like this, your mileage is going to vary a bit as far as handling – that’s true. Those of you on the larger side might prefer something a bit more substantial. But the same could be said for any rifle, really – different people come in different sizes, and are inevitably going to have different preferences in terms of rifle size. Is the Plinkster the ideal rifle for marksmen? Are you going to start hitting 360-degree no-scopes with regularity like you’re in a modded Call of Duty lobby? Not exactly. But come on! For $100, the Mossberg 702 is a revelation. Appreciate it for what it is and don’t expect too much.

Mossberg 702 Plinkster Rifle Magazines and Sights

Nothing too fancy working with these sights. You’ve got your standard hooded front ramp sight and an adjustable rear sight (have your flat head screwdriver ready). I personally love hooded front sights and always have, although sights are another one of those areas that comes down to subjective taste. Just know that the stock sights are solid and serviceable, and  you’ll always have the option to swap them out thanks to a number of available accessories and the modular-friendly design of the 702. 10-round magazines are factory standard, although third party mags that come equipped with up to 25-rounds are readily available. That’s the beauty of a $100 rifle – you can experiment to your hearts content with little worry about compromising the gun (always take safety precautions, of course). Lastly, in terms of rounds and ammo, worry not – I’ve run just about every kind of round I could find through the 702 and have never had a problem. This gun has some guts, and it has some heart.

Stock and Slug Barrel

At 18-inches, the barrel of the 702 is pretty standard and to be honest, there isn’t a whole lot to say about it. I have, however, noticed some online demand for a slug barrel mod for the Plinkster, and I have to say, that is something I can get behind. So, anonymous Mossberg employee reading this feature: please help make it happen. Thanks.

3 with Mossberg 702 🙂 pic.twitter.com/uufhqXXucl

— Ste454ss (@Ste454ss) December 29, 2013

Mossberg 702 Plinkster Rifle Safety and Assembly

This is a reasonably safe rifle, which is part of why I recommend it as a starter rifle, or even a youth rifle (in addition to its light weight, of course). The cross bolt safety is about as vanilla as it gets, but it works, and that’s pretty much all that matters when it comes to your safety. There’s really no greater validation of the safety-level of this gun, however, than my experience in putting different rounds through it and firing it successfully and safely despite relatively careless maintanence. I really don’t recommend being an irresponsible gun owner, for the record – don’t be as stupid as I am. As for the assembly of the gun… well, I’ve never actually disassembled it, nor have I had any need to. I hear it’s a breeze, though!

Mossberg 702 Plinkster Rifle Accessories

In terms of accessories, have fun with this gun. At $100, you should feel free to modify and accessorize to your hearts content – accessory experimentation is one of the best parts of owning a cheap rifle, period. Some accessories, like unique sights and slings, are more on the practical side. We’ll give you a mix of both fun and functional with our list of the top-5 Mossberg 702 Plinkster Accessories:

• Extended Magazine: With a rifle like this, you’re going to want to run through rounds at a fast rate, not take your time lining up shots with optimal precision and focus. Extended mags should be your first purchase after procuring a Plinkster – check out the 25-round 2-pack from Mossberg for an excellent extended mag option.
• Sights: As previously mentioned, there’s no universally beloved sight out there, and as such, rifle owners swap out their sights quite often. Find a set of sights that works well for you – I prefer this red dot sight from CVLife, although I’m generally just working with the factory sights from Mossberg.
• Sling: Carrying the 702 is as easy as can be thanks to its light weight, but a sling can make it that much easier. Pick up a reliable sling and you’ll forget you have the Plinkster slung over your shoulder – that’s how easy it is to carry this little wonder.
• Cheek Pad: I don’t mind the plastic feel of the stock, but some might. A cheek pad is a great option for those who are looking for a more comfortable, textured shooting experience. It even has a magazine pouch on the side for quick and convenient mag storage.
• Mossberg Decal Sticker: Does this qualify as a 702 Plinkster accessory? Not even close! But I’m struggling to come up with a fifth accessory, and quite frankly, this gun is so great that you owe it to Mossberg to slap some logo decals on your car. Don’t think – just buy.

Conclusion

In the words of the immortal T-Pain, if you ain’t got it by now then you just ain’t gettin’ it. As long as your expectations are in check and you understand that you are purchasing a $100 rifle, there is no doubt in my mind that you’ll appreciate the Plinkster 702. This is a fun little gun, and it should be treated as such. Don’t count on it to act as a reliable first line of defense, but do count on it for some enjoyable plinking. As always, stay safe!

Not a Remington guy or gal? Looking for some Remington reviews? How about the 870, 770, or 1187? It’s all right here at Gunivore!

The post Mossberg 702 Plinkster Rifle Review appeared first on Gunivore.