Get firearm and ammunition test reports with our range reports section. More than just reviews, we take products out for a spin so you can see how they perform.
The Thompson submachine gun works as a home defense tool or for police agencies who need a pistol caliber carbine. With a long history of being carried by the military, both American and European, in many wars, the Thompson SMG has definitely earned it’s place as a part of Americana and a powerful weapon. Read the post to learn more about it’s history and the current model.
The original 1911s, first manufactured over 100 years ago, were handmade by skilled worksmen: that puts it out of reach for today’s market. The Taurus PT 1911 performs beautifully at a mid-range price with stellar performance and many options.
The Kahr K9 carries easily and is accurate for long-ish personal defense range (even though it was originally an off duty gun for peace officers). It is substantial with good heft and is comfortable to fire. With proper concealment gunleather, the K 9 conceals and carries as well as lighter handguns
Fans of Rock Island Armory’s 1911 handguns affectionately refer to their pistol of choice as ‘The Rock.’ This nickname is appropriate and valid. These are reliable handguns and if they do not win a beauty contest, well, we don’t call the 1911 ‘Old Ugly’ for nothing.
Looking almost identical to its bigger brothers and sisters, the S&W M&P .22 pistol is the perfect trainer if you own or plan to own one of S&W’s 9mm or .40 caliber M&Ps. Introduced in 2011, the .22 LR M&P is made by Walther in Germany. Though the rimfire M&P looks similar to the centerfire models, the two are functionally different. While the centerfire M&P is striker-fired, the rimfire models have an internal hammer. The slide is as smooth as butter and those who have issues with pulling back a slide on a semi-automatic pistol will be pleasantly surprised at the ease of cocking it. As a trainer, teaching a new shooter, a fun plinker or rimfire competition gun, the S&W M&P 22 rimfire pistol is excellent for its ergonomics, reliability and functionality.
Ok, a bit of a disclaimer. Glock unveiled its 30S today, and I was at the front of the line with every intention of putting it through its paces.