What would you recommend for a light weight .44. Mag for backpacking, hiking etc?
Russell
September 21, 2009
The S&W 329 is a very good, very light .44 Magnum, but is best for a very experienced shooter. Recoil with heavy loads is pretty stiff. A better compromise would be a S&W Mountain Gun or a Ruger Super Blackhawk with the 4-5/8 inch barrel.
Jeff
Hi Jeff. New to your web site, but really like what I see. I have a reloading question, but will comment as well. First, the reloading question. I'm trying to work up a load for a 7MM Remington Magnum using Nosler's 160 Grain Accubond bullet. As you well know, the powder and bullet manufacturers are so litigation conscious, all of their loading data, at least to me, seems very cautious. Wondering if you have gotten any info from other shooters loading this bullet with Reloader 22 powder.
Now for the comment. In reading the comments of others on your web page about our citizenry being armed, I'd just like to say how much I appreciate those like you, standing up for our freedom to Keep and Bear Arms. I'm a hunter, a shooter, a retired U. S. Army Officer and a police officer. I've owned and used firearms since I was 12 years of age and have never once used one unlawfully. But then, I'm not a criminal. The firearms I own have been obtained perfectly legally. I carry one every day as a police officer, also perfectly legally. It is the criminal element of society in this Nation and in other nations that have driven uninformed politicians and the masses to believe that violent crime can be curbed if guns are eliminated. There are mountains of evidence to the contrary. Wherever private gun ownership has been banned, violent crime has increased. Simple as that. As a police officer, I have no issues whatsoever with legal gun ownership or concealed carry. I have contacted many concealed carry permit holders in possession of firearms at the time of the contact without the slightest threat to me - or anyone else for that matter.
I sent a letter to my elected representative the other day. In it, I asked her if she know why the Right to Keep and Bear Arms was the SECOND amendment, directly following the amendment guaranteeing Freedom of Speech. Here's what I told her. I firmly believe our Forefathers were extremely wise in providing for the exercise of free speech. Because, in exercising that freedom, we have the ability to debate. We may debate with our elected officials and tell them when they are wrong and express exactly what the will of the PEOPLE really is. As long as we are a People free to express ourselves freely through the exercise of peaceful dissent through verbal debate, we will remain a free people. Once we lose the freedom to speak and interact verbally freely with each other and with our government, we will no longer be a free People. Our Forefathers knew that. That is why the Freedom to Keep and Bear Arms comes directly after the guarantee of free speech. Because, our Forefathers, having not had freedom, knew what it was to be enslaved by a government. And, they knew that once OUR government moved to deny us our freedom to speak freely, the only way to regain our freedom would be through the threat of, or the actual use of the force of arms. That's why the Second Amendment is the Second Amendment. It's to remind our government what comes next when it moves to deny us our Freedom of Speech. And, THAT is why SOME in our government - and other governmental bodies (like the United Nations) so want to disarm the American public. Once disarmed, the enslavement of the people of the United States to a government that is NOT Of the People, By the People and, For the People is inevitable. Once the American public is disarmed, denying us any other freedom our government wants to deny us, will be just too easy. We therefore, must stand firm in unwavering support and defense of the Constitution of the United States - and its Amendments - against all enemies, foreign and domestic.
Thanks for allowing me the exercise of my First Amendment Right to Freedom of Speech.
Dave
September 19, 2009
Thanks for that well-written and informative email. Many of the emails that I receive daily exhibit very poor grammar and punctuation, not due to ignorance, but laziness. It is refreshing to read a letter that shows care and intelligence in its form and content. Many of the miscreants in our government, and our society, think that the Second Amendment was placed in our Constitution to guarantee our right to go deer hunting. That is absurd, and intentionally misleading by those who promote such ignorant conclusions. On the handloading question, load data is provided as a guide, but an experienced handloader can exceed those limits by carefully and progressively increasing powder charges. However, this must be done on a gun by gun basis. What works in mine might be excessive in yours, so go slowly, and keep in mind that the game animal hunted will not be able to tell the difference in a few feet-per-second. I like to work near the top of the velocity potential of a given cartridge, but settle on the most accurate load, even if it is not the fastest.
Jeff
Jeff,
For a trail gun in the South, do you recommend the Taurus
Judge, and if so which model?
Russell
September 18, 2009
Yes I do. I like the UltraLite best as a trail gun, but the smaller
Public Defender as a concealed carry piece.
Jeff
Jeff , I recently purchased a .44 mag Ruger super
Blackhawk. I am planning on using it for hunting white tail in upstate
New York. I have a scope for it but wanted to use a red dot. The gun is already drilled for it but I was told not to put one on it as the recoil is too much. what do you think?
ED
September 18, 2009
Depends upon the dot chosen. Many on the market are junk. I really like the Trijicon Reflex above all others. It is rugged, accurate, and always "ON". It never needs batteries.
Jeff
I've noticed in some of your videos that you are a left handed rifle shooter. I am too. What are your favorite AR type rifles for lefties, are some more ambidextrous than others? What are some of your other favorite rifles that work well for you even if they are not designed to be left handed? One of my favorites is my
Browning BPS shotgun.
Ryan
August 12, 2009
The BPS is probably the best pump shotgun ever built, and the safety is right on top, just as God intended. I like standard ARs. Adding an ambidextrous safety helps, but is not necessary. The Ruger and Winchester single shot rifles work well for lefties.
Jeff
Jeff,
First time question, have you in the past ever done a review on S&W 442 or a 642 and some of the best +P ammo to use in
it?
Also as I am a Lefty like you, do you think the Stag Arms left handed Model 2L is worth the extra money over the Model
2? I shoot and carried a M-16 in the Air Force in Germany back in 1985 and did very well will the right handed M-16.
Thanks for your time,
Tim
August 12, 2009
The STAG is a very good weapon, but I can use the RH version just fine, and that I what I prefer. I have reported on the
342PD and the 340. The 642 is an excellent weapon, and a very good buy in today's market.
Jeff
Pourriez-vous nous dire quelles sont les
poudres adéquates pour le rechargement des cartouches d'un revolver SMITH
& WESSON 500 Magnum,ogive de 350 grains?
Merci d'avance,
Jeannine
15 juillet 2009
Essayer 42 grains de Hodgdon, H4227, ou H110. 42
grains de Winchester 296 sont aussi un bon choix. Utiliser un apprêt
de magnum avec tous ces chargements.
Jeff
Jeff, I just read your 2005 review on Trail Boss powder and have a few questions. Did you notice a decrease in overall noise from using this powder to propel some bullets well below subsonic levels? If not, do you think that is due to the pistol length
barrels? I need to load some ammo for dispatching raccoons in semi-populated areas and want to keep the noise down really low if possible. Most shots are less than 25yds, but the .22lr just hasn't been cutting it. We've had a few too many run off to crawl up somewhere, die and stink the place up. I was considering loading up some 32 H&Rs, 38 specials, .45LC or maybe a few rifle rounds listed on the IMR website. What do you think, have any experience with quieter loads? I would be firing these out of rifles with barrels longer than 16 inches.
Thanks,
Adam
July 6, 2009
The long barrel is the right way to go. Carefully experiment, and use as heavy of a bullet as will stabilize,
preferably a cast lead bullet. Load down as far as you can go without sticking a bullet in the bore. Trail Boss should do the trick for you, but if it does not, try
Titegroup.
Jeff
Jeff, first of all I would like to tell you how much I enjoy your website and the reviews and articals you write. They are to the point and no B. S., thanks.
I was reading your review of the Kel-Tec SU 16C rifle which you said you liked and it had enough accuracy to even varmint hunt with. I
believe you said it was shooting close to MOA or less with some ammo at 100 yards. I was also reading a review by "nutnfancy" at the YouTube website, he was using two SU 16C rifles with and without scopes. His average groups were around 3 inches at fifty yards.
I like the rifle and was thinking about buying one if I can find it in my area. My question, is the rifle accurate like the one you were shooting or will I be getting the 3 inch groups at fifty yards like "nutnfancy" ?
Keep up the good work, thanks.
Bill
July 6, 2009
It depends upon several factors. Some people spend good money for a rifle, and then cheap out on the scope and ammo. Every component has an effect on the performance of the weapon. If you use a good scope, properly mounted, and quality ammo, your rifle should perform every bit as well as mine. Never put a whole lot of faith into someone named
"nutnfancy".
Jeff
Jeff, It is 3:50AM here, & as usual, on a sleepless
night, I find myself enjoying your no bullshit website. I picked up a
Ruger Blackhawk Flattop .44 Special yesterday. 5.5 inch. Have read your article on these 2-3 times & am looking forward to playing with this long-awaited revolver.
Now to the point of this e-mail: B & C reticles. I just ran across your work-up on this. And of course I am using a caliber that does not fit the list. My load is a 210gr Nosler PART. at 2800fps.(By Chronograph) B. C I have a very nice custom 338-06 AI on a SAKO action + Macmillan stock. 24" Lilja barrel. This gun has long been a favorite of mine & I have taken 6 Bull elk & 2 nice muledeer. But my older eyes & slower brain function makes it harder to calculate the hold anymore. Sooo, I broke the bank & got a
Leupold 4.5x14x40mm scope with a B&C reticle, hoping this will help. I do not like to make a practice of shooting critters at long range, but sometimes it just works out that way in Montana. Actually, I would much prefer to sneak up on them & use a handgun. The last Bull elk I shot was 40yds. Took close to 2 hours crawling on my belly to get there. I have a certain Whitetail buck I have been after for 2 years now. Last chance was at 317yds but I could not take the shot as there was a hunter on the ridge just above the buck. How do I calculate?
T.W.
July 2, 2009
I would start by using the standard setting, as with a .30-06 or similar. However, try it out in the field or at the range. You might need the magnum setting, but I doubt it.
Jeff
Jeff, how would you compare the Ruger LCP with the
Kel Tec P3AT? Which do you prefer and why?
Jim
July 1, 2009
They are so close in design, that I have no preference. I gladly carry either in my left front pocket with confidence.
Jeff
Great website!
Are you going to do a comparison of all the
pocket .380 autos anytime soon? Do you have any preference?
Thanks,
Dan
February 19, 2009
I will not be doing a comparison. I have done a separate
review on each that is available. I report my findings, and let
the reader decide for himself/herself which best fits their
particular needs. For me to make a comparison and declare one the
"best" would be both arrogant and presumptive of me.
Much like me trying to pick a man's wife for him. What I find to
be "best" might not be for someone else. Therefore, I
report the facts, such as the weight and size, reliability, and
accuracy. Me choosing the "best" pocket .380 would be
fair to neither the reader nor the manufacturers. I could not even
make this decision for myself. That is why I own several
pocket .380 auto pistols. Of the ones that I have tested, they are
all good. You will never see another "comparison" type
article on Gunblast, as long as I am the editor.
Jeff
Hi Jeff,
I have a concern about mass gun confiscations in the United States. Do the NRA, Peterson Publishing,
GOAL, FFL dealers and others of the gun related trade, have any plans to destroy their membership lists, subscription lists and sales lists, in the event of a forecasted nationwide effort by the government to raid citizens homes to disarm them? I know there would probably be government
punishments for doing so but if they really want to be patriots they should do so anyway. If the government trashes the constitution and assaults American citizens they should all do their duty. Do you agree? If you do, could you mention it or post a poll on your site to get readers
opinions? The Revolutionary War's first battle was over the confiscation of guns. The legal authority of the time was the one who was trying to grab the guns. I guess the only real mystery is whether Americans have as much guts as the minutemen of the 1770's colonies.
Jim from Tennessee
February 15, 2009
Jim,
In Tennessee, the state keeps no records. After
the background check, the records are destroyed everyday. The gun
dealers keep the yellow 4473 forms. However, if BATFE walks into a
gun store and demands the forms, every gun dealer would likely
turn them over.
Jeff
Jeff, I'm glad and relieved that Boge is back home. I've been talking to him about changing his health habits so we can enjoy him in the future.
Have you guys considered changing the black background of Gunblast to white or some color easier on the eyes? When I read a column for very long, my eyes have to struggle to see the letters on the black. Just a thought. Thanks,
Tom
February 3, 2009
Tom, you're not the first to make this request. I
have begun changing the text on our articles to a bold-face type,
hopefully this will get the job done without my having to totally
redesign the site. All the articles linked on the main page
reflect this change, as will all articles going forward. Let me
know how it works for you, and thanks for the prayers and advice!
Boge
I purchased a Browning Gold that was taken apart. It is not feeding correctly now. I need to know if you could help me find a diagram, that shows the correct way to reassemble the gun. Your help would be greatly appreciated.
Chris
February 1st, 2009
Brownell's has a great deal of info on their web
site. Click on this
link.
Jeff
Hi Jeff, I wanted to mention that when I read your comments page I was a bit ashamed at the other Australian who raised the pro gun control issue - so I thought I should contribute to your outstanding website.
As a Australian who lived in the USA for 2 great years I came from a background filled with media rubbish about the USA. Hard line stuff - with the only information
available to me being shootings and mass murderings and right to carry issues - which if you believed the hype - meant that every
American citizen was a gun carrying nutbag who would shoot you for any
reason. (hence your other writers views)
Nothing could have prepared me for what I found in the America - a nation of freedom loving people who were amazingly generous and intelligent - who
didn't understand the word "No". The USA is the last place in the world with true freedom who people
appreciate personal responsibility for their actions.
I never felt safer in any other country than I did in America, I have experienced far more crime and antagonist behaviour in Australia then at any time in the USA. And its because you have more respect for each other as a result of being one of the only places in the world where freedoms are a part of your rock solid law.
The other "Australian" who mentioned school shootings and violence forgets the fact that so much world wide attention was given and that a school is one of the last places in
America where a mentally sick person can be assured of meeting no armed resistance - which is why they do not attack peoples homes or police stations - because their run for glory will be cut very short.
Best Regards,
Matt
January 29, 2009
You, Sir, are much wiser than most. The only
shootings that make the news are the ones in which the criminal
comes out the winner. Many crimes are stopped by armed citizens,
but it does not further the liberal's agenda to report those, so
they are seldom mentioned.
Jeff
Hi Jeff,
Love your site, I'm concerned that Hallie says that Bobbies don't carry guns, this is false, we have armed response units in the
UK and armed police in our airports etc, wherever they are needed. Increasingly they are forced to carry anti stab vests as knife crime has soared there, 5 needless deaths a week average. Since hand guns have been banned, gun crime has risen in the
UK, they have even had to set up OPERATION TRIDENT to deal with the unusual level of violence from a certain section of our male youth, the only people using hand guns are the criminals, sometimes even better armed than the police. The good news is the majority of the time it is to wipe each other out, but still proof that handgun bans don't work. Our
Olympic team has to travel abroad to train, PC gone mad and yet no reduction in crime, just the punishment of law abiding citizens that the government doesn't trust even if they do win medals. Women may not even have mace, a pen knife or a sharpened comb in their handbag as should they kill their attacker and that would mean they (the woman) had premeditated killing someone. I had enough and moved to a
European country that allows me to keep firearms at home and in the car if not on my person, but only after a years worth of paperwork, medical approval (yearly) and gun club attendance, my neighbours
questioned by the police as to if they have any objections, paperwork controls every 3 months, a limit of 7 central fire handguns/semi autos/ex military calibre bolt actions inclusive submitted for authorisation again every 3 years with the police (a 6 month process). This country has less gun deaths than the
UK for an equal population, Criminals here don't buy guns legally, they don't do paperwork, intruders KNOW that there is at least a shotgun under the bed of the vast majority of homes, we have the legal right to shoot them within our house if they are carrying a gun and refuse to leave, we may not shoot someone in the back, fair enough, we may not shoot someone with a knife, but then would he hang around faced with a 12 gauge or a 300 win mag? Shooting someone means sitting in jail until proven innocent and probably banned from having guns thereafter, but importantly still alive. Even if my new government was to go English on us, hunting rifles will never be banned, and we will at least sleep at night knowing that we have the right to protect our own lives, something that has been stolen from the English because the human rights of the aggressor must be guarded and that keeping that first world war
bayonet or a kitchen knife next to the bed means that you are just waiting to murder the first innocent burglar/rapist in the course of his work.
Jesus loves life, the martyrs and He gave their lives for our sins but I would rather ask Him forgiveness for defending mine and my neighbours and winning.
Keep fighting for your rights, they are quashed only too easily.
B
December 30, 2008
Thank you for those comments. You have a perspective that neither I nor most of my readers have, and I appreciate you filling us in.
Jeff
Hello Jeff,
Thank you for all the great information on your site and for the comprehensive review of the
S&W M&P 9mm. I recently acquired this fine pistol and am interested to know your opinion on the best personal defense ammo available in 9mm. I apologize if this information is already posted on your site; if so, please feel free to direct to me to it. I know that you recommend Cor-Bon, is there a specific load? Also, the Barranti Leather link at the end of the review is dead, so I am curious to know if they are still in business? Can you recommend any other concealed carry holsters? I am thin and find that inside the pants options create less of a noticeable bulge than any belt mounted or paddle holsters I have tried.
I appreciate any information you can offer.
Thank you,
Josh Latta
December 30, 2008
The M&P is a very good choice. Barranti has changed his web address. It is now
www.barrantileather.com.
There are lots of good ammo choices today. From Cor-Bon, I really like their DPX in 9mm. Also
Buffalo Bore has some good loads using the Speer Gold Dot bullet. For an inside rig, the Cross Breed Supertuck is very comfortable.
Jeff
Sir,
I just purchased a Ruger old model Blackhawk in .357 Mag which is in excellent condition. The gun has a very low serial number. It works great but the barrel seems to have some copper fouling. I probably should just leave it alone but the gun is in such excellent shape I hate for the barrel to look anything but pristine. What is the best method to clear the fouling without harming the gun. I am not looking for a quick fix just something that cleans out the fouling. You can contact me at huainantzu@aol.com.
Also, can I order a Ruger Super Blackhawk with a four and a half inch barrel from the factory with some accuracy work done.
Thanks,
Don
December 29, 2008
Ruger does not do accuracy jobs at the factory. Try Barnes CR-10 to get that copper fouling out. I have found nothing better.
Jeff
Why do we need handguns? Why do you feel the need to collect them? There are so many handguns in the world. There is no number high enough to count all of them. They are the easiest way to kill a person. So, why do we need them? I don't know if police need them. Bobbies in England don't carry guns at all. I love this country and all we have, GOD has truly blessed us! And I know the Army needs gun. & I'm not sure about the picture on your home page. Pointing a gun at the viewer. Would you shoot a person? And take their life? Let us ask ourselves, is this something that Jesus would do in modern times. Would he own a gun? I am not prefect by any way. Nor, do I think I am better then any one else. As Paul said "We are all sinners of witch, I am chief" I would like to know your answer to this question?
Hallie
December 21, 2008
If we had no guns; no one, not even the bad guys
had guns, would we be better off. There are some communities, in
the US, where even the cops do not carry guns. Those communities
are what we call prisons. In prison, the people who are allowed to
enter and to exit are carefully screened. No one can bring in a
weapon of any kind. In prison, there are more law enforcement
officers per capita than anywhere in the world. Even with all this
security, crime is rampant. The gangs rule the community. You
either join up with a gang, or you are the victim of a gang. Guns
may not be the perfect answer, but it is the best that we have.
Guns prevent more crimes than any other deterrent. Without the
individual right to carry a gun, gangs would rule our streets. In
the US, the communities that do not allow citizens to carry guns
have the highest crime rates. A small woman with a gun can defend
herself against the largest man. Without the gun, she is pretty
much his victim. Same thing with an elderly couple against a gang
of thugs. Criminals in prison have, when interviewed, stated that
an armed citizen is their biggest fear, and the greatest deterrent
to their committing their crimes. I do not know what Jesus would
do, but He has powers that I do not possess. He has thousands of
angels at his command. Me, the best that I have to fend off
attackers and to protect my family is a gun. I would not shoot to
take a human life, but I absolutely will shoot to protect one. If
some predator tries to make me or someone whom I am obligated to
protect a victim of his evil, I will shoot. If he dies, I would
not celebrate his death, but I could live with that a lot better
than I could live with watching him harm a loved one and be
helpless against his attack. The gun is the best tool that I have.
The police have guns, and they are civil servants doing a job that
we pay them to do. They are hired to carry the gun for us, and to
use it if necessary. However, a policeman is not sitting next to
me, so until I need one, call him, and he arrives several minutes
later, I have to be my own policeman, and protect myself and those
whom depend upon me for protection. I keep a gun within reach at
all times. That might not be the perfect answer, but in this
imperfect world, it is my answer.
Jeff
My name is Zac and I'm a 21 year old elementary teacher down here in San Antonio, Texas. Many twenty-year-olds are excited about turning twenty-one for legal drinking, but not me! I was actually excited about purchasing my first handgun. I ended up with a Taurus pt-145 pro. It's a really fantastic handgun and it feels great. Now, I've been wandering around the net trying to read up about the changes that are tacked on with our new president that effect our right to own our handguns. I'm confused, Jeff. One blog says "They're gonna collect our guns!" , and other blogs say that we're gonna remain unaffected. I find this hard to believe. I even watched the stuff on the NRA website. I just got my gun. I love it. Will I end up
losing it?
Zac
December 21, 2008
I do not know. Obama's record is very anti-gun.
However, I do not think that he could get Congress to pass a total
ban. I do believe, however, that any gun restrictions that
Congress passes, he will sign into law, because he has stated that
he favors a ban on ALL semi-automatic firearms. I heard him make
that statement. We have something like 80 million gun owners in
the US, and maybe 5 million NRA members. That tells you that most
gun owners do not care enough to support the best defense that we
have. The NRA is far from perfect, but they are the most powerful
gun-lobby in DC. Make no mistake about it, Obama is an enemy to
the freedom of gun ownership in the US. We must be vigilant, and
keep a close eye on him and his cronies in the Congress.
Jeff
I got a S&W460 with a 12in barrel
were can I find load data for it?
Name Withheld
December 21, 2008
There is good load data available online at www.hodgdon.com.
Jeff
Jeff, Help.
I am getting a Savage 93r17Classic and would appreciate some advice on a brand of scopes for it.
I have been researching them and there are so many to choose from. I am looking at the following
brands: Bushnell, BSA, Nikon, Simmons, Barsa.
I am looking in the 100 to 170 dollar range. I am looking at the Leupolds but they are pretty well out of my price range.
I would like at least a 4 x 10 x40. Would bigger be better? Are there any brands to stay away from or are they all good now days?
Sincerely,
Pete
December 21, 2008
All those that you listed are imported, and some
within each brand is better than others of the same brand. If you
can get along fine with a 3 to 9 power, that would be my choice,
and the Leupold that Wal Mart or the Leupold Rifleman that www.swfa.com
sells is pretty close to your price range. However, Bushnell and
Nikon both have some pretty good scopes, but the lower end stuff
that Bushnell sells is not as good as their Elite line.
Jeff
Would the Taurus 45/410 pistol "The Judge" be a good defense weapon for a woman? Could a moderately fit, 135 lb woman fire the 410 version and expect to discourage a man sized target at 15 feet?
J. Foster
December 21, 2008
Yes it would. For concealed carry, the Judge is a
bit large, but for home defense or in a vehicle, it is an
excellent choice. If dropping a man dead is considered
discouraging, then yes, it would.
Jeff
OK, now I have another question. My Rock River plan fell through, and I am presented with another choice. I have already put down $100 on a new Olympic Plinker Plus with an upgrade to a
collapsible stock. The gun should be here by the first few weeks in the new year. The total price will be $761.00 with the new stock. Or... I have found a new DPMS flat-top .308 for just under $1200.00. It is optics ready, but includes no iron sights. I believe it has the dust cover, a
collapsible stock, and 2 mags. I know these are 2 separate brands/calibers, but which do you think is the better deal/rifle? I can have my hands on the DPMS, but have no exact date for the Olympic. I'm pretty sure I could get my deposit back for the Olympic, but don't know if that is the best thing to do. Please help! Any thoughts or opinions will be greatly appreciated, especially about the benefits of one brand over the other. Thanks.
Chad
December 21, 2008
They are two very different rifles, but if it was
my choice, I would grab that DPMS. They are now backordered close
to two years on those, and finding one for sale is becoming very
hard to do.
Jeff
I'm looking for my first concealed carry weapon. I
recently test shot at a friend’s house and he recommended a Bersa
380. I prefer revolvers though, and was looking for some
suggestions on any alternatives that may suit this application and
not be too bulky or uncomfortable to carry around.
Thanks,
Terry
December 21, 2008
For a revolver to carry concealed, I like a
concealed-hammer lightweight .38 Special, like the S&W 642.
Jeff
I am wanting to purchase a .22 semi-auto
pistol. I am considering the 22A S&W, the 45/22 by Ruger
or the Browning Buck Mark Camper. As far as accuracy,
trigger and overall quality, which would you prefer? I enjoy
your website.
Thanks,
Dave
July 29, 2008
They are all good pistols, but the Ruger would
be my first choice.
Jeff
Jeff,
I'm contemplating my first Colt SAA in .45 LC. I've been comparing the
P1840, and the P2840. I've noted the P2840 has a black powder frame. Not
being familiar with black powder as yet, is it possible to use the P1840
with black powder if necessary? This might be a stupid question, but I'm
wondering if the P1840 would be more versatile. Thanks for your help.
Brett
June 10, 2008
The reference "black powder frame"
has only to do with the type of retention device for the base pin.
It is just a styling thing. You can use any type of suitable
powder in either gun.
Jeff
Le escribo desde San Jose, Costa Rica, me gustao mucho su sitio, me ayuda
con dudas, cuando observe su articulo sobre la M&P45 me ayududo a
decidirme por comprarla, con la cual estoy mu agusto. Gracias.
Paulo
May 8, 2008
Estoy contento que usted disfruta de
Gunblast.com, y que el artículo M&P fue útil a usted. Es una
excelente pistola.
Jeff
Hi Jeff I'm a gun owner and live in Australia. We hear all to often about these shootings in schools in the US, innocents killed many injured both physically and emotionally, good folk scared for life. You know more people are killed with firearms in the US each year than are killed on our roads in Aus plus firearms incidents! What is being done about this appalling loss of life Jeff? I'll tell you...... nothing because the average American ego is so large the average American cant pull their head out of their ass to see the light of day. Kids can buy firearms and ammo!
What sort of appalling lack of CIVIL RESPONSIBILITY is this. Is the average
American proud of this ability to arm themselves? And for what ?
To people outside the US looking in, it seems that Americans are paranoid !
Seriously this is how it appears, so much for "living in the land of the free" I love your web site, but heads need to put together, laws changed and the
penalties need to fit the crime, here's a thought Jeff. If the ruling was that if a felon commits a crime and has in their possession a firearm, weather it has been produced or not during the
robbery/assault a mandatory 20 years jail sentence with NO CHANCE of
parole is imposed PLUS time for the offence, I would think twice! Something
has to be done Jeff, its all fun and games playing with "big boys toys" but passing the responsibility of owning firearms off to your
Constitution is not any kind of responsibility at all!
Regards,
Mike Hodgson
March 7, 2008
Firearms have been available here for over 200 years, yet it wasn't until our government created "gun free zones" that these tragedies started taking place. These low-life shooters are going to schools to do their shootings, where they know that no armed citizens will be present. When I was in school, many of us has guns in our pickup truck gun racks on school property, yet we never even thought about opening fire on our classmates. The
availability of guns is not the problem, it is the evil that is in the hearts of some people. What you do not hear on the news is how many times lives are saved because someone was armed, and stopped a shooter from doing violence. We arm our police, as you do yours, yet in doing so we are just hiring others to do that which we should be willing to do ourselves. It is every citizen's responsibility to protect our own families, friends, and neighbors from those deranged, evil people who choose to do us harm. Adding a
mandatory twenty years to the sentence of someone who has just murdered six people is not a
deterrent, and most of these scum take their own lives anyway, after their deeds are done. The police cannot be everywhere at once, and usually they can only show up in time to write a report. If someone tries to do me harm, it is my responsibility, not that of the government, to protect myself. Our society today devalues human life, with the gruesome violence in movies, television, and video games. As a nation, we no longer teach our children the ways and teachings of Jesus, but allow them to do everything that they like, get everything that they want, and suffer no consequences for their actions. That some grow up to be selfish, disrespectful, hate-filled brats should not come as a surprise to any of us.
Jeff
Jeff,
I guess I may have overstepped the mark with a couple of comments I made,
I'm sorry. What you have written does make sense to me. I guess we are from two very different worlds when it comes to survival and thinking about it, if lived in the States I would probably carry one myself.
I guess I went off half cocked so to speak!
Keep up that great web site.
Regards,
Mike H :}
No problem at all. I welcome differing views on any subject. I would prefer than people were nice to each other. It is shameful what some do to their fellow man. I do not think that gun control can ever stop violence. A case in point is our prison system. Access in and out is strictly controlled, and there are more police per capita in a prison than anywhere in the world. Guns are strictly forbidden. There are no guns inside the prison buildings, yet murders, rapes, beatings, and robberies still take place in that controlled environment, everyday. Without an armed populace, gangs rule. Evil people will always do evil things. Your comments are always welcome. It is good to hear other opinions on the topic.
Jeff
Would you please compare several of the modern striker fired, polymer frame sa's and rate them from 1 to 10 for quality, dependability, design, features, etc., and of course, your personal preference. I have in mind the new Ruger, Glock, Smith and Wesson, Taurus, Springfield, FN, plus anything new you saw at the shot show.
Thanks,
Rufus Ward - Westminster SC
March 6, 2008
I do not like to do comparisons. Most of the new guns all work perfectly, and comparing them only shows what I prefer. What fits my hand might be different from what works well for others, so I prefer to report on different guns one at a time. Coordinating getting all the guns here at once is also a logistical nightmare, as gunmakers seldom deliver when expected, for reasons involving importation and their production schedules. Also, if I leave out a certain guns, readers will complain that I have slighted their favorite gun. The way that we have done it for years seems to work best.
Jeff
How about a preview of the new SW Nightguard
Series -- in particular, Model 396 .44 spl -- saw it at the SHOT
Show. Maybe compare it to Charter
Arms Bulldog (Pug) which you have already reviewed.
Since SW is a sponsor, I should think the
Model could be easily previewed, and know you are a fan (like me)
of .44 spl.
Have complete trust and confidence that your
review will be honest and candid. Besides, you will scoop Guntests
Mag (unless its in their March issue) ... but even still, I would
look forward to it.
Also have checked out your sponsors' links
often.
Don't care for the mixing of the religious
and political content though. But as long as the articles and ads
are clearly marked, I don't have to find myself subject to them.
Please stick to guns and ammo as I believe your audience is much
more diverse than you may think.
However, I do appreciate your site and your
willingness to present contrary reader comments and opinions.
Jeff D.
Second Amendment Democrat
February 24, 2008
I have an order in for one. We always wait
for a production gun to review. Hopefully, it will be here soon.
Jeff
Great site. However, I would like to
see you a little more critical of products. Sometimes I feel
like I'm reading the company's brochure. Maybe have a counter
point paragraph describing some of the problems which were
observed. Nothing is perfect. Nevertheless, I look
forward to your Shot Show report!
Thanks again,
Todd
January 17, 2008
I always report any problems encountered with
a gun. I evaluate the trigger, accuracy, reliability, handling,
and overall performance. Perhaps I am biased, as I really do love
guns. I report my findings, and I do not waste my time nor that of
my readers testing junk. I seek out good products, and report on
things that I think are beneficial to shooters. I can't decide
upon that which will be the perfect gun for every reader, but try
to report the facts, and let the reader decide. Same with scopes
and other products. I want to review good stuff. I could go to Wal
Mart and buy a junk riflescope, and trash it in a review, but that
would serve no purpose. I like shooting, and hate typing on a
keyboard, so I would rather do so reviewing a quality product.
Jeff
Your website states: "Vote for
Clinton and say goodbye to your guns" (or something like that). Please
elaborate. Do you have one single quote from Clinton in which
total disarmament of the American people is a proposed agenda? I
said "disarm" and not "control" mind you. Will
you please provide any verified quotes from ANY current members of
our government in which total disarmament is the objective.
Senators, congressmen, House members etc...ANY politician who has
made ANY statement encouraging complete disarmament.
I am NOT attempting to start a conflict.
If you can provide me with any verifiable
proof of a conspiracy to hijack the 2nd amendment I wish to be
enlightened.
Regards,
Craig
December 13, 2007
The top politicians would never come out
and flatly call for total disarmament. It would be devastating to
their careers. They want to nibble them away a little at a time.
Let's look at the Clinton gun ban from 1994 as an example. They
wanted to ban the so-called "assault rifles", so they
made a ban against any rifle that fed from a magazine and had a
bayonet lug and flash suppressor. When that happened, the AR-15
makers just eliminated the flash supperssors and bayonet lugs. The
Clinton whitehouse cried "foul", stating that the gun
makers were "going around the law", when all they were
doing was complying with the law. Then they got the magazine
capacity ban into law, once again attempting to eliminate the
guns. What is the difference between disarm and control? How can
they control a gun which I possess? They cannot control it at all
when it is in my possession.
Hillary Clinton on Gun Control:
Hillary Rodham Clinton offered her support
for a legislative proposal to license hand guns. The legislation,
sponsored by Sen. Charles Schumer, would require anyone who wants
to purchase a gun to obtain a state-issued photo gun license. “I
stand in support of this common sense legislation to license
everyone who wishes to purchase a gun,” Clinton said. “I also
believe that every new handgun sale or transfer should be
registered in a national registry, such as Chuck is proposing.” Source:
CNN.com Jun 2, 2000
If you own a gun... make sure it’s locked
up and stored without the ammunition. In fact, make it stored
where the ammunition is stored separately. We’ve made some
progress in the last several years with the Brady Bill and some of
the bans on assault weapons, but we have a lot of work to do. Source:
ABC’s “Good Morning America” Jun 4, 1999
The 1994 Violent Crime Control and
Law Enforcement Act banned 19 types of military-style assault
weapons whose only purpose is to kill people. Source:
It Takes A Village, by Hillary Clinton, p.126 Sep 25, 1996
Barack Obama has called for a total ban on
the ownership of semi-automatic weapons of all types.
John Edwards has called for reinstating the
1994 "assault weapons" ban.
Jeff
Thanks.
You don't need to refresh my memory to the asinine 1994
"assault/crime" bill. It was as pointless as
ineffective. The quotes you sent me were as I suspected--not at
all what I asked for. I wanted evidence of disarmament. Something
to back up the "elect Hillary, lose your guns" statement
you made.
Wow. The only thing you could come up with is a license proposal.
Yikes!! Run for the hills!!!! I already have one of those
actually. I have a Texas CHL (CCW) that I am very proud of.
The only thing bad you presented was the Obama quote. I don't
expect much from him anyway.
So where are we? No evidence whatsoever of an attempt to bypass
the 2nd amendment. Just some variable layers of gun control. Do
you consider the requirement of a driver's license and auto
insurance as "vehicle control" ?
Craig
December 14, 2007
How about looking at the examples of every
nation that has collected the guns of its citizens. First, every
one of them, including Adolph Hitler, called only for
registration. After they were registered, then they collected the
guns.
Same thing happened just a few years ago
in California. They wanted to only "register" the
semi-auto rifles. Then, they later collected them, giving the
owners a voucher for payment to be made sometime later.
This stuff just ain't right. Infringing upon
our gun rights is no different than infringing upon our other
God-given rights. Hillary proposed a "one gun per month"
limit. How about limits on freedom of speech, or limiting freedom
of assembly to one meeting per month. No Sir, I ain't falling for
it!
If you want to, vote for Hillary. Go be her
personal lap dog if you like. I do not like her. I do not trust
her. Your "layers of gun control" IS stepping on the
Second Amendment of our Constitution. Driver's license is not at
all a good correllation. There is no inalienable right enumerated
in our Constitution to drive a car. There is an enumerated right
to keep and bear arms, and that means to own and carry guns. It
also means that we do not need the permission nor the control of a
conniving, corrupt, disrespectful, and hateful woman to freely
excercise that right. She is not a nice person, and she wants to
control your income, your health care, your retirement, and your
guns. She wants to control you, and you Sir, do not seem to mind
it at all.
Jeff
My boyfriend has a Ruger
22 single six with a 9 1/2 inch barrel. I have looked everywhere
and cannot find a holster for it. He would like a leather shoulder
holster to carry it in. Do you know where I would be able to find
a holster for it?
Christy
November 10, 2007
With a barrel that long, look closely at one
of the Grizzly Tuff holsters. They are comfortable, and are
perfect for carrying such a revolver afield: http://www.gunblast.com/GrizzlyTuff.htm.
Jeff
I have decided on a Savage 204, but not
whether new or used. I was reading about breaking in new barrel
and wanted to know if that makes a big difference in how accurate
it may shoot. Buying used to save money a person has no way of
knowing how it was broke in. Thanks for your help and your insight.
John
October 4, 2007
Look the rifle over for signs of abuse, and
look at the crown to see if it has been damaged by a cleaning rod.
Don't worry about the "break in". It is like seasoning
an iron skillet. Just give it a good cleaning with Barnes CR-10,
and start over.
Jeff
Thanks for your good sense about the .30-30.
You and Chuck Hawks can't both be wrong, and here on the
reservation we eat many elk every year, all shot with .30s, that
call into question the modern obsession with flat-shooting
magnums. A 6-lb Model 94 is the funnest hunting rifle, and
perfectly capable in the hands of a decent hunter.
Van
September 17, 2007
After all these years, the old .30 WCF still
does a fine job.
Jeff
Jeff, I purchased the XD-45
4 inch. It seems that every time a it ejects a shell after
firing it leaves a shall ding about 3/4 of the way up from the
base of the shell. Any ideas what's causing this?
Ray
September 17, 2007
It is hitting the edge of the ejection port,
but it will do no harm.
Jeff
Do you think someone can learn shooting a
pistol from a .22 caliber versus a 9mm.? My thoughts include
cost and can not think of another (cheaper) way to get as much
time on the range for the cost of a .22 Ruger. I understand I
should still practice with my 9mm CCW but do not want to waste my
time with a purchase of a handgun for cheaper ammo and handgun for
practice if it is not worth it.
David
August 7, 2007
Perfect choice. I shoot more .22 than
anything else.
Jeff
I just read the article on your website about
Ruger Bearcats and it stated:
Thus Ruger introduced its “prefix” numbering system in January 1969. The Ruger Bearcat had the prefix of “90” added to its serial numbers. Known are serial numbers 90-00022 to 90-25622.
I have a Ruger Bearcat with serial number 91-002XX. Is it maybe not authentic? It looks GOOD to me!!
Melinda
August 2, 2007
The 91- prefix guns are known as Super
Bearcats. The major difference is, the Supers have steel
frames instead of aluminum alloy.
Boge Quinn
Hello Jeff,
I hope you don't mind a statement. I read
some of the questions and thought I might enter a nut to crack of
my own. I was in Nam. I used an M14 with selector switch. I pulled Night duty in the
Long Bin ammo depot. I used the selector switch most of the time.
You can't hurt the M14 (.308). I and others put the M14 through
quite a bit of rough handling, dirt, moisture, etc. You can give
me the M14 anytime. Thanks.
John in Oregon
July 10, 2007
Thanks for your comments, and mostly for your
service. You are correct about the old 14. It was (and still is) a
dandy fighting tool.
Jeff
Hi Jeff, I read so much about stopping power.
My Question is, does a 380 have enough stopping power? Will a 380
go clean through a body? If so doesn't it depend on where you hit?
Rich
April 10, 2007
With most handguns, there is really no such
thing as stopping power. Too many factors involved. The .380 does
not have enough power. Neither does a 9mm, .45, or .44 magnum. A
12 gauge shotgun up close is much better. However, a handgun is a
compromise between size and power. I would be perfectly happy
carrying a Bersa .380, hoping
to avoid a fight. Same with a .45. If I am ever in a
gunfight, I hope that I have a rifle or shotgun, but a handgun
will do in a pinch. A .380 usually does not completely penetrate a
human torso. You nailed it with your last sentence. Practice as
much as you can, and pray that you never need it.
Jeff
A Smith and Wesson Mod 66-1, what does the
(1) stand for?
Ed
March 3, 2007
In 1977 the gas ring was changed from the
yoke to the cylinder, and the -1 was added to the model number to
designate this difference. The -1 was made from 1977 to 1982, when
the -2 was introduced, eliminating the counterbore for the
caseheads.
Jeff
I think killing squirrels is wrong
Mill
February 25, 2007
Okay, but it is no worse than killing
chickens or pigs or cattle to eat. Unless you are a vegetarian,
you have no grounds to believe that it is wrong. If someone else
kills your meat for you, it is no different.
Jeff
What is the scoop on 3'' barrel 45 autos? I
have talked to many people who believe .45 ACP was never meant to
perform in such a short barrel. What are your thoughts?
Stanford
December 26, 2006
If set up properly, they work well. However,
the hard part to conceal on a 1911 is the grip section. The barrel
and slide are easy to hide, and I see no reason to go any shorter
than a 4.25 inch barrel. Any shorter, and you are giving up sight
radius and velocity and gaining nothing.
Jeff
Explain something to me please. I just read
some stuff in the "Politics"
section of this site and am curious. Why are all you conservatives
so damned obsessed with the Vietnam war and specifically "who
served or not" or whatever? Wasn't Clinton bashed by you guys
for being a "dodger" not long ago? I suppose Cheney-Bush
were REAL war heroes back then huh? Shouldn't you be BLAMING the
Dems (Macnamara-LBJ) for Vietnam? Double standard, eh? Strange
things occur when you apply logic while thinking.
Craig
December 22, 2006
I don't care who served or who did not. I was
too young, as were my brothers. Clinton dodged the draft by going
overseas, but even that doesn't bother me. I dislike Clinton for
his morals. He is a man who cheats on his wife. Anyone who will do
that should not be trusted to run our country. It shows a lack of
integrity. Many Republicans also lack moral fiber. I vote for
people in both parties, and try to vote for whom I believe to be
good people, with good leadership skills, and beliefs that are
similar to my own. That is the best that any of us can do. Mr.
Bush served in the National Guard, which is an honorable branch of
our military. I do not know what Mr. Cheney did. It is really none
of my business.
Jeff
Well Hello Jeff,
I must admit that after
your review of the Bushmaster .308
it makes me rather sick to think they has decided to totally stop
production of that rifle.
I must admit that it also makes me quite suspicious about what is
not said.... hints of problems in the mass market quality control
department perhaps.
Jeff, since I am a fan of testing the poop out of " battle
rifles" doing things such as ripping as many rounds through a
rifle as fast as I can to see how it holds up, I would like to
know if you ever really "torture test" the hell out of a
combat rifle and if so what problems (if any) have you
encountered.
I feel strongly that if one is going to purchase a military combat
civilian semi auto rifle that it should hold up under extreme
rapid fire conditions... just as if you were in a major fire
fight. Many "authors" are given a far superior rifle so
as to achieve the end result of promoting a particular company and
its product. To date the only "perfect rifle" that has
not malfunctioned under extreme torture tests is the famous AK 47
. Many of our troops just as back in the days during
Nam are losing there life to the far less potent and still far
less reliable and high maintenance M16 .223. and snapping up
the enemy's AK 47.
Never do you hear much , if anything from someone willing to
publish an article about reliability under extreme battle
conditions.
What can you lend to your many readers about the above information
and .... What if any brand or maker of a .308 do you feel could
stand up to such durability. I personally have seen many fail
under what should reflect real all out battle conditions.
I hope you don't mind publishing this, as I hear much that no one
is really going to come clean and tell or test a weapon like it
should be.... EXCEPT for the makers who often brag of putting
thousands of rounds through there rifles and with little to no
problems. "Hype" I say, as I have duplicated some of
there claims with countless malfunctions and internal parts coming
apart.
I truly hope you don't mind editing some of my grammar and
spelling along the way. I am lacking to an extent in that
department. I think public is craving your in depth answers
in a non political fashion to all the questions above.
All the best,
Louis
September 9, 2006
The Bushmaster was a good
weapon, and it used readily available FAL mags. When the magazine
ban expired, that was an advantage that no longer mattered, and
the Bushmaster was more expensive than its competition. DPMS,
ArmaLite, Rock River, and others all make good .308 AR-10s. If
I wanted to, I can make any weapon jam. That is not my goal when
testing a weapon. Put enough crud into a rifle and it will
malfunction, even the AK-47. The latest generation of the M-16 is
a very good battle rifle, but it must be kept free of oil in
conditions of blowing sand, as the sand will stick to the oil.
Even the Israelis like the M-16, and it has replaced the Galil
in the hands of many of their units. They are now transitioning to
a new bullpup design to replace both the M-16 and the Galil. I
test weapons under normal conditions. It would not be realistic or
fair for me to abuse a weapon until it failed, as all will
eventually. Also, testing weapons for military use is not the
purpose of Gunblast. I will leave that to the gentlemen at Fort
Benning. I review weapons for target shooters, hunters,
plinkers, and for home defense. Therefore, testing under normal
conditions that a shooter might encounter seems reasonable to me.
I do not think that Donald Rumsfeld has the time to read
Gunblast on a regular basis. There is a need to test all military
weapons under extreme conditions. I just ain't the guy to it.
Pouring a weapon full of sand until it fails is no help to our
readers. However, that stuff does interest me, and I do read
military type small arms reviews, with a special interest in the
findings of the US military proving grounds.
Jeff
Hey Jeff,
I really enjoy reading your articles, and I
have to say, I will be soon purchasing a Savage rifle on your
recommendations. I do have a question though. Each
time I read your articles, your groupings are usually extremely
tight (1/4" or less). However, I often read that the
norm for out of the box savages are about .75". I was
just wondering if there were any adjustments that you make to the
rifle to get such good results? If so, what are they so that
I could do that when my new rifle comes. Or are you just a
really good shooter, or both?
David
September 6, 2006
David,
When shooting groups, I try to determine just
how well the gun will shoot, with little input from me. I use the
best ammo that I can get, a quality scope, and use an absolutely
stable benchrest, usually the Target
Shooting Inc. Model 1000. I try to eliminate all
human error, as much as possible. This gives the reader an idea of
how well the rifle will shoot. Of course, under field conditions,
I can't shoot nearly that well, but knowing that the gun will do
its part if I do mine, gives me confidence in my equipment.
Jeff
Jeff, I read your column often, and read the
one on the Ruger Mini 14.
Partly on the strength of your review, plus my own list of defined
purposes for the rifle, plus a lot of other Internet research, I'm
about to buy the "ranch" edition of the Mini 14.
The question I have is about the whole "accuracy" frenzy
surrounding the Mini 14, and usually stirred up by AR15 advocates.
Many folks seem to feel like 1.5 to 3.0 MOA @ 100 yds (which is
typical for a new Mini 14) isn't adequate, but as you said, the
Mini isn't really intended to be a match target rifle.
1. So my first question is: If you were to buy a Mini 14
today, do you think it's worth the money to get it "accurized",
spending anywhere from $300 to $600 on up, just to squeeze it down
to 1 to 1.5 MOA? Or do you think Ruger are doing an adequate job
of manufacturing it as-is, and you'd just leave it alone and use
it for what it's designed for? I hear that when you get a
rifle accurized, sometimes it makes it less reliable and
robust....I'm not a target competition person, so I don't know if
accurizing is worth. But I DO want to be able to hunt
varmints, etc., and I want it to be accurate enough to hit
them at say 150 to 200 yards using a scope.
2. And a second question is, for a person who's not really
interested in a combat rifle, but can only afford ONE super-tough,
super-reliable, all around weapon that you could hunt with in a
pinch, plink with, and defend yourself with, is the Ruger is a
better starting point? I've looked at the AR15's, and I'm
worried about the complexity of cleaning one in the field, how
finicky they can get with certain ammo, etc. I really like
the Ruger's looks, reliability, etc., but don't want to get it if
it's truly a "piece of junk" as some of its critics
claim.
Thanks in advance for your feedback, and for your online columns.
I love reading them.
Tom
July 18, 2006
I really like the Mini-14. It is a dandy
rifle. I also like ARs. I find the AR system to be a bit more
accurate from the bench. However, in the field, I cannot tell the
difference between a 1 minute rifle and a 3 minute rifle. There
are too many other factors involved. Out to 200 yards, if I miss
an animal with the Mini-14, it is my fault. I would get the Mini,
and try a few different brands of ammo to see which it likes the
best. The only downside to the Ruger is the availability of good,
cheap, high capacity magazines. If you want some 20-round mags,
pay extra and get some factory Ruger mags. They can still be found
brand new at gun shows. If they aren't stamped with the Ruger bird
logo, they are not Ruger mags. After firing the Mini, leave the
bolt slightly open. I do this by placing an empty cartridge case
in front of the bolt sideways, holding the bolt back about 1/4
inch. If you don't do this, be sure to clean and lube the weapon
after each firing session, particularly the gas system. Or, just
buy the stainless gun and don't worry about it. It is a very good
weapon.
Jeff
I have a Ruger No1 that was purchased in 1976
that has the inscription "Made in the 200th year of American
Liberty". Is there a collectible value for this gun? I
see the current suggested retail for this rifle is $ 1000.00.
Stan
July 12, 2006
The 1976 so-called "Liberty Rugers"
are beginning to have collector value, especially if you have the
original box.
Jeff
Dear Sir, I mailed a
$600.00 deposit to Robinson Armament for one of their new XCR
rifles - over one year ago. I have talked to them on the
phone several times and I feel that they have been stalling me.
As a 1967-68, US Marine, with combat experience, I cannot accept
any M-16 type rifle design-due to the large number of deaths I
personally witnessed after the M16 was hopelessly jammed in the
hands of Marines being assaulted. I saw my fellow troops
throw their black rifle at the NVA as a last desperate act. Is it
time to cancel my order? Your opinion will be appreciated!
Roy
July 3, 2006
I would certainly ask for
a refund. That is too long of a wait. I understand your disgust
with the M16. It was sent into battle before it was ready.
However, the current AR-15 weapons are superb, and very reliable,
but that is your call, not mine. You might want to take a look at
the ArmaLite AR-180. It is a
different gas system, and Eugene Stoner designed it as an
improvement over the M16. One advantage is that the new ones can
use the cheap and plentiful M16 magazines. Also, thank so much for
your service in the Corps.
Jeff
I grew up in a family with guns, mostly
rifles for hunting and I've done a little myself but apart from
that I haven't had much reason to have a gun. I have friends who
hunt and I visit their hunting lodge a lot and my girlfriend
has a house in the woods. Recently I was in the woods by myself
and it struck me that maybe I should have some protection as there
are a lot of bears in these woods. What hand gun would you
recommend as protection, safety and easy to handle? I thought
about a .357 magnum but I'm not sure. Can you advise me?
Thanks,
Bill
June 26, 2006
A good .357 magnum loaded with heavy 180
grain loads would serve you well.
Jeff
Hi Jeff, I need to
buy a couple of boxes of 38-40 rounds. And what would you say
would be a good
cowboy six gun to start shooting as a beginner?
Thanks,
Bob
June 21, 2006
I like the USFA Rodeo. It is an excellent
firearm.
Jeff
I have been to your site and had a look. I
read the articles and still have one question. Has it been tried
to produce a longer cylinder on the Taurus Tracker, in order to
utilize longer cartridges? Thanks.
Best Regards,
John
May 31, 2006
Not to my knowledge.
Jeff
Hello Jeff, I was wondering why you do not
have any reviews on Marlin lever rifles. Is it because of the
cross-bolt safety that you don't like?
Dave
May 21, 2006
I like Marlin rifles, and own a few of them.
While just about every manufacturer in the gun industry likes to
have us review their products, I can't get anyone at Marlin to
even return a telephone call. About twice per year, I call the
marketing people at Marlin, explain about Gunblast to an answering
machine, and leave my telephone number. The gentleman has never
returned a call in five years. I have also spoken with their
people at the SHOT Show every year, but get not much more than a
blank stare from them. Most manufacturers are aware of the value
of an Internet magazine, but the folks at Marlin and H&K just
do not want us to review their products. At least the marketing
lady at H&K came right out and said so. I have yet to hear
from Marlin. That is too bad, as they do make good rifles.
Jeff
I'm a big fan of your online magazine (and a
big fan of Savage's rifles too) ! My question is about the 6.5mm
Grendel and Savage rifles... Since you know many people at the
Savage factory I was wondering if they are planning to offer the Savage
Model 12 Long Range Precision Varminter in 6.5mm Grendel
(since it's just a wonderful caliber) ?
Have a nice day and thanks for the great job
you do !
Guillaume
April 26, 2006
At this time, there are no
plans to do so. However, I was up there visiting the factory about
11 months ago, and one of the engineers had a box of 6.5mm Grendel
cartridges in his desk drawer, so they are considering it.
Jeff
I appreciate your article on the best loads
for S&W's Model 19 ("Smith and
Wesson Model 19, 357 Magnum - Best Practice Round").
Do you have similar favorites for the S&W 586/686 and Ruger
P345?
Thanks in advance,
John
March 27, 2006
I like the 125 grain JHP in .357 for social
work, and the 180 for deer hunting. In the .45, I like Cor-Bon
PowRBall.
Jeff
Have you seen or heard of doing a trigger job
on the new Ruger .17 lever action? I know of one that needs a
trigger job. It has a lot of creep.
Wendell
March 24, 2006
Any good gunsmith can do this for you.
Jeff
Can I shoot 22lr in
my 22mag pistol or single shot 22mag contender barrel?
Thanks,
Dr. Walt
March 21, 2006
It will work, but is
not a good idea, as the cases usually split, and can send hot
powder gases back towards the shooter.
Jeff
|
At the request of readers who have noted
that the Ask Jeff page has become very slow to load due to the
number of questions on it, we have archived our older Q&A. We thought this a better alternative to deleting them
entirely; this way, all the Q&A we have posted will remain
on the site and available for reading.
You may access the older comments on the Ask
Jeff Archive page.
Boge Quinn - Webmaster |
NOTE: All answers posted on this
web site are for educational purposes only. Neither the author nor
GunBlast.com assume any responsibility for its use or misuse.
Any loading data indicated were arrived at using specialized equipment under
conditions not necessarily comparable to those encountered by the
potential user of this data. Always use data from respected loading
manuals and begin working up loads at least 10% below the loads indicated
in the source manual.
