OK, so that was a trick question because there’s really not much to “knockdown power” at least in the literal sense. Sure, a cannon would certainly knock you over, but a handgun? Not so much. Let’s explain. Handguns are certainly lethal and can cause all sorts of reactions in the recipient of a handgun shot. […]
Holster Butchery
Taking a Dremel tool to a firearm is almost always frowned upon. And I agree. However, butchering a holster might be entirely appropriate, depending on the reason. The other day I shared a story about how the extremely challenging Air Marshal Pistol Qualification test exposed some opportunities for gear improvement. The need for top speed […]
Smith & Wesson M&P 40 Ported: A One-Caliber Recoil Reduction
Here’s a neat fact about the F-16 fighter jet. The pilot’s seat is far more reclined than those in other planes. That’s a bit of physics and biology trickery to help the pilot deal with high G forces. What does that have to do with pistols? If you create gas ports in a pistol barrel, […]
Big Capacity for the new CMMG Banshee – Kriss MagEx 12+
CMMG just put the extra short in “short barrel rifle.” With the launch of the Banshee lineup, the company is bringing compact and handy to a whole new level. The CMMG Banshee is a family affair, with members currently identifying as .45 ACP, .22 LR, 300 Blackout, and 9mm. Perhaps we’ll see more caliber offerings […]
I Hope I Never Have to Draw…
In the comments section of a concealed carry article I wrote a while back for another publication, I read the following: “I HOPE I NEVER HAVE TO DRAW BECAUSE I CAN’T…” Needless to say, the opening words of that particular response got my attention, and I had to read on. This particular individual had chosen […]
Slide Release vs. Racking: Pros and Cons
Semi-automatic pistols have a neat little lever on the side that both locks the slide open and allows it to close. This feature has both administrative and “tactical” (for lack of a better word) purposes. Administratively, it’s handy for showing an empty gun and field stripping for cleaning and maintenance. Tactically, the lever is one […]
Does the Smith & Wesson Governor Really Shoot Shotgun Shells and Bullets?
Hand-held shotguns are odd ducks. Can I say that? Actually, I can’t because, at least according to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and firearms they’re not shotguns at all but rather handguns. Here’s the distinction. Shotguns by legal definition have a smooth bore. They are also required by law to have barrels of at least […]
How to Connect: Front Sight Wobble Is Your Friend
I was training with a friend last week. I hadn’t shot with him before, so I didn’t have any idea of his level of skill with a pistol. After placing some targets at about 10 yards and starting to plink, he proceeded to drill the center box out of one of those miniature silhouette targets […]
Putting Three Great 9mm Self-Defense Rounds to the Test
When choosing self-defense ammo, you can’t make blanket judgments like “Bad Dood Blaster Xtryllium” is the best!” Whether a particular round is effective or not depends on all sorts of factors. You have to consider the gun from which it’s fired – primarily its barrel length. Barrel length determines velocity and velocity impacts penetration and […]
A Ported Pocket .45 From Smith & Wesson’s Performance Center
The 9mm Smith & Wesson Shield is a great carry gun. It’s perfectly sized to balance concealment and control when shooting. As a single-stack magazine pistol, it’s flat, so it’s not only feasible but comfortable to carry inside the waistband. Depending on your clothing style preferences, it might even work as a pocket gun. However, if […]