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Aero Precision SALE: M5E1 15″ FDE Cerakote Builder Sets

This Weekends Aero Precision Special features the M5E1 15″ KeyMod or M-LOK FDE Cerakote Builder Sets. This package deal features the pieces you need to start building your own M5E1 (.308) Rifle, including an M5 Stripped Lower Receiver, M5E1 Upper Receiver and Enhanced Gen 2 Handguard of choice.

To receive the discount:
1. Choose the FDE Cerakote Finish
2. Select the 15″ KeyMod or M-LOK Length
4. Discounted price will then display

MSRP: $571.50
THIS WEEKEND – $449.99

Buy Now
Springfield Armory XD-S .45 Packs a Punch! - TheArmsGuide.com

Springfield Armory XD-S .45 Packs a Punch!

Springfield Armory’s XD-S .45 is a bad ass carry gun in a sleek, small package. The XD-S packs 6 rounds of .45ACP into a 21.5 oz firearm. With dimensions smaller than the Kahr CW45, Glock 36, Kimber Ultra Carry 1911s, and Para Carry Safe 1911s, it is one of the most miniscule .45 on the conceal carry market. While this fine .45 is tiny, the kick pushes straight back, allowing for excellent recoil control with only a 3.3” barrel. Easy to hide, easy to shoot, with a lot of bang for your buck, the XD-S has made a smashing entrance into the CCW market.

Features

While the XD-S is an addition to Springfield’s already well-established XD line of pistols, the XD-S has several features that distinguish it from its polymer predecessors. This lightweight single stack .45 has several features that contribute to grip ergonomics, including: a narrow polymer frame (1” thick), generous checkering integrated into the grip, and interchangeable (checkered) backstraps. The pistol measures 4.4” in height and 6.3” in length. Between the slender grip and modest dimensions, it is smaller than the Austrian single stack .45, the Glock 36, which measures 4.7” tall, and 6.8” long at 1,1” wide. The two petite pistols are similar in heft, with the XD-S weighing in just .4oz heavier than the 21.1oz Glock.

Springfield Armory XD-S .45 Packs a Punch! - TheArmsGuide.com
Introducing the two-tone Springfield Armory XD-S .45

Looks aren’t everything… in fact, they’re nothing when the pistol in question is designed to be concealed. But a little pretty never hurt, and the XD-S has just that. The bi-tone’s stainless slide lends the pistol a classy vibe, while melonite-finished monotone gives the XD-S a more “tactical” appearance. The smooth contours and textured grip make the pistol look efficient and purpose built without feeling boxy or uncomfortable. The slide is smooth overall (all the edges are beveled), but features cocking serrations that continue onto the top surface of the slide. Also on the top surface of the slide is the XD-S’s loaded chamber indicator. The short slide (6.8”) houses an even shorter barrel (3.3”). On both models, the barrel is treated with the melonite finish.

Some of the design elements that contribute to the carry ergonomics of the XD-S are safety features. For example, the grip and inline trigger safeties help to prevent negligent discharges by ensuring that the shooter has a firm grip on the pistol and must depress the trigger in order to fire a round. The grip safety has a component that presses on the sear, so while the safety is engaged (meaning, the grip is not being depressed), the sear cannot drop and release the striker. The trigger has a bar extension that connects with the locking block. When the trigger is pressed, the trigger bar rises, allowing the striker to move as the trigger is pulled the rest of the way. Additionally, neither of these safety mechanisms are obtrusive or in any way detract from the ability to carry the XD-S concealed.

Springfield Armory XD-S .45 Packs a Punch! - TheArmsGuide.com
5+1 capacity

Other features that contribute to the design of the XD-S for use as a CCW pistol are the single-position Picatinny rail, snag-free controls (including slide release, slide stop, disassembly lever, and ambidextrous mag release). The Springfield XD-S also includes low profile fixed sights, with dovetailed two dot rear sight and fiber optic front sight.

Range Performance

This small Springfield is a lightweight at 21.5oz. And with only 3.3” of barrel for the large .45 caliber bullet to traverse before it exits the muzzle, it is not surprising that the XD-S has some fairly stout recoil. What was somewhat unexpected, however, was how little it detracted from being able to keep the rounds on target. The force of recoil back into the shooter is more pronounced than the muzzle flip that pops the front sight momentarily off target. So, while the XD-S has some kick, it is easily managed with a firm grip. In keeping with the grip options of the XD(M) pistols, the XD-S’s interchangeable backstraps allow for the pistol to accommodate a wider range of hand sizes; however, the grip only allows for two fingers. Fortunately, Springfield also sells extended magazines for the XD-S with two sizes of baseplates. These extended mags have the added benefit of increasing the capacity from 5+1 up to 7+1. The grip texture helps the shooter hang on to the XD-S during fire. Springfield has taken the enhanced texture from the XD(M) series pistols, and made it more pronounced for the small XD-S. While the raised square nubs help keep a firm grip, even with moist palms, they have the unfortunate side effect of creating distinct impressions on the shooters palms after a box or two of ammo.

The trigger pull of the XD-S is heavier than the famously light Glock trigger, but lighter than the long heavy pull of the Beretta Nano. It has a relatively short takeup with a distinct break. Due to the striker firing mechanism, it doesn’t compete with the clean crisp snap for which 1911 triggers are known, but neither is it mushy or unpredictable. The short resetting trigger aids in keeping groupings tight. The high visibility sights (bright red-orange fiber optic front sight, and white dots steel dovetail rear sights) are easy to track in most lighting conditions. But, in low light/dark environments, they are more difficult to pick up. At the time of this review, Springfield custom shop offers a few sets of night sights that fit the XD-S including, original Trijicon night sights ($129) and Heine ledge sights (also $129). The Trijicon HD sights for SIG pistols ($150) also fit the XD-S. In addition to sights options, the XD-S’s single position Picatinny rail allows for the attachment of laser or light aim assistance pistol accessories.

With the ammo tested for this review (see chart below), the XD-S fired without error. This reviewer had only one issue with the handgun: after a couple boxes of ammo, the XD-S left a distinct red imprint of the grip checkering on her palm. Shooting with gloves, or simply having rougher hands than this 23-year-old college student, would likely prevent this issue, however. As a short-barreled handgun, this firearm does not have the same accuracy that many of its full-size counterparts boast. However, within self-defense range (between 5-10yds), it is not a difficult task to keep groupings within the 9 or 10 ring.

Ammo

[Brand (bullet type) – bullet weight, muzzle velocity, #of rounds fired]

PMC Bronze (FMJ) – 240gr, 830fps, 400rds

Federal (FMJ) – 230gr, 830fps, 400rds

Carry Considerations

What is the best conceal carry pistol? Between balancing ease of concealment (size and weight), capacity, and caliber, there is no one solution that satisfies all individuals looking to carry in all situations. For example, a pistol that offers a high round count sacrifices ease of concealment because it must be larger to accommodate more ammunition. Whereas, smaller pistols, namely single stacks like the Beretta Nano and Kahr CM9 (9mm “pocket” guns) concede more ammo in exchange for less real estate. The Nano, CM9 and XD-S are each only an inch, or less (the Beretta and Kahr are each only .9” thick), with comparably small dimensions. (The XD-S is a bit larger than the mentioned 9mms with a height of 4.4” and length of 6.3”. The Nano measures 4.2” tall by 5.6” long, and the CM9 4.0”x5.4”.) Unfortunately for those who value higher cap over narrower frame, they also feature similar limitations in capacity (XD-S: 5+1 rds of .45ACP, Nano: 6+1 rds of 9mm Luger, CM9: 6+1 rds of 9mm Luger). Another point of contention inherent in Springfield’s compact pistol is the lack of grip surface. The meager frame does not allow for a full size (3 finger) grip, which would allow for increased stability. And while SA sells extended magazines at $40, they must be purchased separately. Should you decide to fork over the extra cash, you’ll also increase the XD-S’s capacity from 5+1 up to 7+1. That boost brings it into the realm of capacity of some full-size 1911s, but still falls short of its full sized XD brethren round count (13+1). The 4” compact XD45 surpasses the XD-S’s cap at 10+1, and the earlier mentioned Glock 36 carries 6+1 standard. On the other hand, none of those other .45 auto handgun options are as easy to conceal as the notably lighter, smaller, XD-S.

Springfield Armory XD-S .45 Packs a Punch! - TheArmsGuide.com
The XD-S .45 comes with a spare 5 round magazine in the box.

Conclusion

Springfield has produced another handgun that adds to the XD line’s established solid reputation. The XD-S lies on the end of the CCW spectrum that favors ease of concealment and light weight over increased capacity, and larger bulk. Its streamlined design is well suited for carry, namely the snag-free sights, inline safety components, and small footprint. Despite the diminutive dimensions, the XD-S is still controllable. The effect of recoil, large hi-vis sights, and short resetting trigger contribute to quick target acquisition between shots. The grip only allows for two fingers, but the lack of purchase for the pinky doesn’t directly equate to an inability to aim steadily. For a polymer frame .45 comparable in size to some 9mm pocket pistols, it offers a larger cartridge without sacrificing the ability to easily conceal. In the continually expanding market for sub-compact polymer pistols, Springfield Armory continues to distinguish itself with the XD-S, delivering CCW pistol-seekers a powerful handgun in a discreet size.

Specifications

Caliber: .45 ACP

Capacity: 5+1

Weight: 21.5oz (unloaded)

Frame material: Polymer

Slide material: Forged steel

Barrel length: 3.3in

Overall length: 6.3in

Overall height: 4.4in

MSRP: $599 – all black, $669 – two-tone

by Destinee

In addition to writing her personal blog, Destinee is also a vlogger. She publishes videos on weapons, gear, and fitness on her YouTube channel every Tuesday and Thursday.

TOR TORCH: High-Powered, Miniature Rail-Mounted Light

Steiner Optics announces the new TOR Torch™, a high-powered, rail-mounted light designed specifically for pistols and small enough to fit inside the majority of all commercially produced holsters on the market.

The TOR Torch features a Type III hard-anodized, machined-aluminum housing, rail mount and illuminator bezel. The Torch is dustproof and splashproof to IP54 and features left and right fire buttons for ambidextrous use. The cool white LED and total internal reflector produce a uniform circular illumination spot plus wide-angle flood lighting for situational awareness. The TOR Torch also has a low battery indicator and adjustable illuminator power.

The universal rail mount on the TOR Torch will fit all pistols that have a Picatinny or Weaver style rail forward of the trigger guard. This design of the TOR Torch Micro allows optimum positioning of the laser so that the fire buttons are easily accessible for a wide range of users.

The TOR Torch also features an Auto-On and a Boost Mode. The internal accelerator in the Torch senses the position of the pistol and when the optional Auto On feature is activated, the light will turn on if the pistol is drawn from a holster and brought up level. This feature will also work when the pistol is picked up from lying on its side. The light will automatically turn itself off when the pistol is holstered or set down. When set to Boost Mode, the Torch will automatically come on to maximum power, no matter what level the Torch had been set on, including off. After one minute of run time, the Torch will automatically return to the previous power level.

TOR Torch Specifications
Maximum Continuous Illuminator Power: 350 Lumen
Boost Mode Illuminator Power: 470 Lumen
Battery: (1) CR123
Height: 1.39 in.
Width: 1.34 in.
Length: 2.70 in.
MSRP: $299

About Steiner
For 70 years, Steiner has made trusted optics for life’s defining moments. The successful pursuit and capture of these moments demands the fast and precise detection, location and identification of a distant objective. Whether the objective is wildlife, a marine bearing, law enforcement suspect or military combatant, Steiner products enhance an individual’s most important sense, vision, so that on land or sea –– Nothing Escapes You. For more information, visit the company website at www.steiner-optics.com or www.facebook.com/SteinerOptics.

Aero February Builder Sets M4E1 & M5E1: Defected Tungsten

Aero Precision’s February’s builder set features a Defected Tungsten Hydrodip pattern done by Commercial Hydrographics (CHG). Choose between M4E1 or M5E1 with your preference of Enhanced Handguards.

The M4E1 sets feature the new M4E1 lower receiver.

M4E1 Defected Tungsten Builder Set - IMAGE

M4E1 Defected Tungsten Builder Set

$499.99
Buy M4E1 Now

M5E1 Defected Tungsten Builder Set - IMAGE

M5E1 Defected Tungsten Builder Set

$599.99
Buy M5E1 Now

Choice Ammunition Manufacturer Ammo Incorporated Chooses Chevalier Advertising

Premium ammunition manufacturer Ammo Incorporated has announced Chevalier Advertising & Public Relations as its official agency of record.  This partnership combines Ammo Incorporated’s high-impact spirit with Chevalier’s 60-plus years of experience in public relations, advertising and marketing within the shooting, hunting, and outdoors industries.

In its new role as Ammo Incorporated’s agency of record, Chevalier Advertising will assist with brand strategy, media buying, and public relations directed towards the shooting, tactical, and law enforcement markets. This includes event planning, coordinating media samples, as well as writing and distributing press releases.

Ammo Incorporated’s current lines include Jesse James Ammunition, OPS One Precise Shot defensive loads, STREAK Visual Ammunition, and /stelTH/ Subsonic ammunition.

“Ammo Incorporated is elevating ammunition to a new level with real innovation and precision manufacturing practices,” said Aaron Lisech, Chevalier Advertising Account Executive. “It’s going to be an exciting year.”
“Chevalier Advertising has the skills and tools to meet the demand our company is creating,” said Jay Grdina, CMO of Ammo, Inc. “We know they will perform as well as our ammunition does.”

www.Ammo-Inc.com

About Chevalier Advertising, Marketing & Public Relations:

Located in Lake Oswego, Oregon, Chevalier is a premier full service advertising, marketing and public relations agency specializing in the marketing of hunting, outdoors, shooting, and law enforcement products.
For more information, contact: Chevalier Advertising, Marketing & Public Relations, One Centerpointe Dr., Suite 550, Lake Oswego, OR 97035, 503.639.9190,
 
www.chevalier-adv.com
Weird Gun Wednesday: The HK P11

Weird Gun Wednesday: The H&K P11

In this week’s episode of WGW, we’ll be diving deep into the world of strange guns meant for undersea usage, exploring the wonder of the five-barreled, dart-projecting H&K P11. One part pepperbox revolver, one part submarine, this waterborne weapon is one of H&K’s most furtive, covert designs.

Where you’ve seen it:

Weird Gun Wednesday: The HK P11
Photo courtesy of IMFDB.org.

Angelina Jolie sports one of these H2O handguns in the movie Lara Croft: The Cradle of Life.

History:

Like all the coolest guns in history, the H&K was one only a few very privileged people were supposed to know existed. First produced in 1976, H&K designed the P11 specifically for the German army’s “Kampfschwimmer,” or combat divers, and kept it highly classified. For a while. Exact numbers produced aren’t known, but everyone, it seems—from the Israelis to the French—seems to have them now.

Design:

The P11 is battery powered/electric actuated using a battery pack located in the grip. The entire pistol is of polymer construction and weighs 42 ounces loaded—a little less than a loaded 1911. The inside of the barrels and the projectiles are protected from salt water by thin diaphragms, which are punctured by the rounds as they exit the barrels. Since the barrels aren’t rifled, they don’t stabilize the projectiles—relying on the cartridges’ fins for stability. Once all five cartridges have been discharged, the unit’s barrel “pack” must either be discarded (if in a hurry) or returned to the manufacturer to be reloaded (if used in training).

Cartridge:

The P11 fires 7.62mm x 36 “caliber” mini solid-fueled finned rockets approximately four inches in length. A prerequisite of this projectile: it needed the power and accuracy to penetrate a diving mask at up to 15 meters. Ouch. It delivers that and more: above the water, though inaccurate, the rocket can travel 98 feet. Below the water, it can reach distances of up to fifty feet and still be lethal.

Verdict:

The one thing that comes to mind with the P11 is that, if James Bond and his buddies had been armed with these during the epic underwater brawl scene in Thunderball, the fight would have been over much more quickly. It’d definitely be a big hit at a pool party.

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