“Confront them with annihilation, and they will then survive; plunge them into a deadly situation, and they will then live. When people fall into danger, they are then able to strive for victory” – Master Sun Tzu The Art of War

I sometimes wonder if it is necessary for us to come completely to the edge of losing our freedom, before we will be willing as a people to wake up, and finally recognize the depth of what we stand to lose. Friends in the United Kingdom have been sending out distress signals to me about how they are turning in their firearms- because the government has a little list of who owns what- and is coming to take the nasty guns away from the people. It’s déjà vu all over again. Not so long ago, as some of our readers will have in their memories, American farmers, cityfolk and woodsmen alike loaded all of the excess firearms they could find into containers and sent them to our British brothers. Those brave souls who had weathered the storm at Dunkirk had come home to the realization that they badly needed arms of any type to stop the murderous advance of the Third Reich.

Many of those weapons, given through camaraderie and the spirit of freedom, which were then followed by the sacrifice of American blood as well, are today being tossed into the choppers at the request of a new breed of Neville Chamberlains, eager to compromise. Taking the politically correct way out. Several other quotes come to mind at the moment- “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it” – George Santayana. “They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety” – Benjamin Franklin.

It is not the intention of this writer to sit in judgment on those whose countries have fallen under the spell of modern Socialism and it’s double-speak. It is a lonely and difficult place to be- as many American citizens in states like New Jersey or California are finding out. Nor do I wish to preach to the choir.

We at the Small Arms Review are students of military firearms. It is simply a matter of time before one begins to realize the connection between a well-armed people, as in the private citizens, and the relative inability of tyrants to take over their countries. There also seems to be a strong fiery spirit that lives in the hearts of people who have their own weaponry- and feel self-reliant as a result.

Our stated objective as a magazine is to provide you, the reader, with the best information that we possibly can, ranging from the study of machine guns to sniper systems, to grenade launchers and shoulder fired rockets to pen guns. We intend to take you inside the weapons and their history, as well as the intimate mechanics of these arms. As the future unfolds, we hope to be able to show you what the newest designs are as well. In the process of so doing, we are going to have some fun as recreational shooters; we thoroughly enjoy shooting military weapons. Belt-feds full of tracer on a Saturday night beat the stuffing out of any T.V. sitcom that I personally have ever seen.

We will provide you with a hopefully coherent analysis of the various incoherent laws regarding firearms that we see being enacted, and commentary on these as well. The pattern of conspiracy to remove firearms from private ownership is a very real thing; it is all around the world. Many well-intentioned people work for this goal, thinking that “Guns” are the problems. These souls are unable to distinguish between the inanimate object, and the intentions of its user. In one person’s hands, a rifle may be the murderous tool of a Coward waiting to shoot someone in the back, in another, the tool of a Hero capturing a company of machine gunners who had been killing his comrades. In yet another person’s hands, it might be the link with a grandfather who fought to save freedom in the world, or perhaps a fascinating piece of machinery that needs to be studied or collected.

I am being too kind to the virulent anti-firearms ownership people, of course. The true purpose behind most of their activities is to disarm the people themselves, so that their political agendas can not be impeded by revolution from the masses. Whenever someone believes that strongly that they are right, and must be in control, I get nervous about them.

Simply put, the Small Arms Review is intended to study small arms. As a byproduct, we will always cover the political scene as well, and we hope that we can be a beacon of free thought shining into the places where the darkness has once again started to settle in. If you live somewhere that the ownership of arms is being heavily restricted for lawful people; take heart. There are many kindred souls out here, and as Master Sun said so very long ago; “When people fall into danger, they are then able to strive for victory”.

If the darkness is setting in, gather your friends and light some torches. Remember, the ballot box can change onerous legislation very quickly- organize and change the laws. Our best wishes are with you.

-Dan

The Grassroots Division of the NRA Institute for Legislative Action offers programs specially designed for legislative and political action. The following excerpts are from the NRA GRASSFIRE! Newsletter, May 1998. For more information call 1-800-392-8683.

127th NATIONAL RIFLE ASSOCIATION ANNUAL MEETINGS AND EXHIBITS.

June 5-7 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia

This years 127th NRA Annual Meeting & Exhibits will feature thousands of shooting and hunting accessories, hunting guides and outfitters, and special seminars for all interests. The Exhibit Hall opens at 10:00am, Friday, June 5. Special events include: the ILA Opening Session; Friends of NRA Auction; Members banquet with the Honorable Trent Lott, Majority Leader of the U.S. Senate, as keynote speaker; National Awards Luncheon; NRA Women’s Reception; First Annual Firearms Law Seminar; and more! The annual meeting of NRA members will commence on June 6 at 10:00am. For more information call 1-800-694-9300.

EDDIE EAGLE HONORED AGAIN

Virginia Governor James Gilmore (R) officially recognized the month of March as Eddie Eagle® Gun Safety Month in Virginia. This March marks the 10th anniversary of the Eddie Eagle program, which was created by NRA President Marion P. Hammer in 1998, and has reached more than 10 million children with its simple safety message of ‘STOP! Don’t Touch. Leave the Area. Tell an Adult,” when they come across a firearm in an unsupervised situation. In conjunction with this award, beginning March 2, 1998, the 15,600 elementary students in all 32 of Richmond’s schools started learning Eddie Eagle’s lifesaving message.

NRA NATIONAL FIREARMS MUSEUM

Construction on the National Firearms Museum is currently underway with a scheduled opening date of June 1, 1998. This museum will be the preeminent firearms museum in the nation —with more displays than the Smithsonian museums in Washington, D. C. Spanning some 15,000 square feet, the museum will be located at NRA Headquarters in Fairfax, Virginia and will trace the history of firearms from about 1450 to the present day with over 85 unique exhibits and 14 galleries. Visitors will see depictions of the significant role firearms play in the American Revolution, the American West, World Wars I and II and much more.

GERMAN AUTOMATIC WEAPONS OF WORLD WAR II:
Live Firing Classic Military Weapons in Colour Photographs.

By Robert Bruce
(Hardcover, 128 color pages)
Autograph copies are available from the author
Robert Bruce
PO Box 482 SAR
Sandston, VA 23150
Retail $35.00 postage included

Above all else, Robert Bruce is one of the top photographers working in the firearms field. He is also a student of small arms, and a historian. Add these three things together, and you end up with an outstanding piece of work. German Automatic Weapons of World War II is exactly what the class 3 community needed.

A good informational book will have historical perspective as well as in depth analysis of the firearm. Robert Bruce has provided both, with wonderful detail. He covers the select fire Mauser Schnellfeuer-Pistole as well as the MP-40, MG-34, MG-42, FG-42 both type I and type II, and the STG-44 (MP-44). The photography is clear and crisp as should be expected, but it is all color, and done in an interesting fashion. Intermingled with the excellent disassembly sequences are live fire photos by models in authentic period uniforms. There are some historical photos as well.

The text is well written, and follows an easily read format. You can read German Automatic Weapons of World War II as a book, not just use it as a tech manual. The author tells the story of the development of the firearms, intermingled with the technical information and the observations of the modern day shooters who participated in the making of this book.

Want to know how to disassemble the MG-34? Four full color pages with photos that are clear and large enough to see all of the details. Loading and firing the Schnellfeuer machine pistol? Eight full color pages that guide you through the process, and hints on achieving accuracy.

This is a much needed book, and I highly recommend it to all interested in World War II Germany, as well as to the Class 3 community.

The Paraclete

(video)
By Velko Milosevich

Velko Milosevich made “The Paraclete” as his master’s thesis film for the University of Southern California School of Cinema. The film was shot entirely in Michigan and took three years to complete. It’s about an undercover Detroit cop and former SEAL that’s losing his mind and it is super visual. There is a realistic ambush of Navy SEALs firing M-203’s in Bosnia complete with a guy getting hit by tracer bullets (a cinema first and a minute on screen which took 4 days to shoot) and an outstanding gunfight in a car. The tracer bullets were done by Digital Domain, the Hollywood movie effects house that did many of the effects on Titanic. It is exactly 35 minutes long and was shot in the professional 35mm format. The Paraclete is probably the biggest thing ever done at USC. It has very eclectic music and is non-linear so if you’re a big fan of “Tango & Cash” and don’t enjoy violence and cursing – it’s probably not for you!

The above description is a paraphrase of an email that Velko sent to me when I heard about his film on Bowers Board on the Internet (http://www.subguns.com). He is an SAR subscriber, and an enthusiastic student of modern weapons, so I was very interested in what his project would be like. Interestingly, Velko is also the Libertarian candidate for US Senate from California.

So, what was it like? A haunting combination of imagery and sound. Realistic- but surreal at the same time. I was thoroughly impressed. The attention to detail was unnerving. Velko is of Yugoslavian descent, and the story line follows a troubled son of immigrant parents and his mental deterioration after a horrible behind-the-lines Bosnian firefight and POW experience. He is a Detroit cop at the time of his mental breakdown, and his problems stem from a childhood nightmare experience that becomes clearer as the movie progresses, as well as from the ambush in Bosnia.

Although the firearms use was a small part of the on-screen time, it was some of the best contact that I have seen put on the silver screen. No hokey BS. When the firefight starts, it flows into that frozen series of microseconds that make up combat. Back in the city, as the cop goes undercover in an investigation that unravels in the back seat of a car, the sense of the inevitable violence grows until it just rolls off the screen at you, then explodes in a shotgun / pistol fight at close range. Dynamic stuff, not the kind of crap you see on television.

The Paraclete (which means Holy Spirit or intercessor) was one of two Western Regional Finalists for the prestigious Student Academy Awards and has screened at the Texas Film Festival, the Hermosa Beach Film Festival, and won First Place Experimental at the Central Florida Film Festival.

The price is $15 and covers the cost of the VHS tape plus first class shipping but unfortunately doesn’t get Velko’s education fund totally out of debt. If you’d like a copy send a check or money order to:

Velko Milosevich
3460 Centinela #307
Los Angeles CA 90066
velko@earthlink.net
310-398-7171

EIGHTEEN DAYS TO FOREVER (Overcoming the Horrors of War)

By Kevin W. Woodard
(130 pg. Softcover $4.99 US / $6.99 Canada)

Kevin Woodard is a line staffer at the Knob Creek Shoot, and has been seen cheerfully executing those duties for quite some time. Kevin has also seen the Elephant, and lived to tell the tale. His wife asked him to tell his story, and tell it he did.

This is not just another ‘Nam book, it is a story that goes right to the heart of the Sixties and what went on both in the US and In-Country Republic of Vietnam. As a young Staff Sergeant he ships in, immediately hits combat, and stays in various fights until he is seriously wounded on 18 April 1969, some “Eighteen Days” In-Country. That is when Kevin’s story really begins. In his words, he has died and is reborn on the same day- his old way of looking at things is forever changed due to the wounds he received.

I found this to be wonderful book to read. The honesty of the combat scenes, the sacrifices people make because of egotistical inexperienced officers (100% casualties in his unit on 18 April), the humor of military men. What shines through in the end of it all, is the strength of the human spirit. It’s a short book, a paperback, but one that this author recommends to all.

Eighteen Days to Forever is available for $4.99 + $2.50 S&H from:
Commonwealth Publications Inc.
9764 – 45th Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T6E 5C5

HANDBOOK OF ORDNANCE MATERIEL OS 9-63 Vol 1

June 1944 Second Edition, reprint by DLO mfg. (128 pgs. softcover)
Available from: DLO Mfg, 10807 S. E. Foster Ave, Arcadia, FL 33821
$6.00 plus $2.50 postage

Prepared by the Ordnance School, Aberdeen Maryland during World War II, this small handbook is a must have. It is an illustrated guide to all of the weapons the US forces used in WWII. Starting with the pistols and submachine guns, through the rifles and machine guns, various tripods, mortars, cannon, tanks and finally through all of the basic trucks, this handbook gives the vital statistics of each. If you are a class 3 dealer, or an enthusiast, you need this book in your reference library. It will fit handily in your briefcase for those gun show forays we all seem to end up on in our search for parts and accessories.

THE SWEDISH K MACHINE GUN VIDEO

($29.95 + $4.50 S&H)
Alabama Arms Inc.
7605 Eastwood Mall
Birmingham, AL 35210
Tel (205) 980-9348
Fax (205) 980-9011

I have mentioned this video before, so I’ll keep it short and sweet. Gary Reisenwitz is a well-known writer in the machine gun field, and is definitely an RKI (Reasonably Knowledgeable Individual). He narrated the excellent Browning Machine Gun video that Alabama Arms sells, and this new video is top notch.

Quality of the video is an instructional type, not “Terminator II” or “Titanic”. Gary simply explains clearly and demonstrates the field stripping, function, detailed disassembly, assembly, and the accessories of the Swedish K / Port Said submachine gun.

If you have a Swedish K, are a Class 3 dealer, or just have some interest in the gun, perhaps considering purchasing one, you need this video. If you think you know all about the subject, think again. Gary is very thorough in his teaching of the Swedish K.

Gemtech’s Predator Suppressor

The realm of rifle suppressor design has matured considerably in recent years with the growing popularity of compact variants of the M16 rifle among both the law-enforcement community and military SpecOps units. The M4A1 carbine, in particular, has proved well suited to entry and CQB (Close Quarter Battle) applications, where a more compact and practical sound suppressor would pay substantial tactical dividends for many missions. The Navy stimulated the recent jump in technology by publishing an RFP (Request for Proposals) for a robust, high-performance suppressor for the M4A1 carbine that would include a quick-mount that would attach to the M4A1’s flash hider or a clone of the flash hider. This article will evaluate the design and performance of the Predator suppressor, which is a spin-off of Gemtech’s quest to enter the competition at the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Crane, Indiana.

The Gemtech design team of Dr. Phil Dater, Greg Latka, and Jim Ryan approached the Navy requirements as a three-pronged R&D effort. Dater led the work on a suppressor design. Ryan and Mark Weis ramrodded the cumbersome contractual and specifications requirements. Latka led a simultaneous effort in Michigan to develop a suitable quick mount based upon his patented Tri-Lock system. Separating the effort into three simultaneous projects enabled Gemtech to hit the ground running in their attempt to develop a quantum jump in technology to meet the very ambitious Navy wish list and time constraints.

Despite the nominal separation of the effort, everyone on the Gemtech team did contribute to all three projects whenever an individual’s particular expertise was needed. It was the depth and breadth of expertise brought to the table by every member of the design team, plus a willingness to play to each individual’s unique strengths on a daily basis, that gave the team a remarkable esprit de corps and enabled them to develop a lot of new technology in a very short time. They called their new navspec suppressor with spring-loaded quick mount the M4-96D. They simultaneously developed a more economical variant of the M4-96D for the civilian market. Originally called the M4-96C and now called the Predator, this civilianized suppressor is fabricated from the same materials and uses the same internal design as the M4-96D. The only difference is that the Predator features a 1/2×28 TPI threaded mount instead of Gemtech’s snap-on Bi-Lock mount. Thus, the Predator is also a bit shorter and lighter than the M4-96D, as well as $145 cheaper.

Suppressor Design

The Navy RFP stipulated a maximum acceptable suppressor weight of 26 ounces (737 grams) and an ideal weight of 16 ounces (454 g). The can should have a maximum diameter of 1.75 inches (4.4 cm), with a preferred diameter of 1.4 inches (3.6 cm). And, finally, the new suppressor should have a maximum length of 8.0 inches (20.3 cm) with a preferred length of 6.3 inches (16.0 cm).

The M4-96D is 7.75 inches (19.7 cm) long and 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter, and the suppressor weighs 24.7 ounces (700 g). All suppressor components are coated in a matte black oxide, and the interface piston receives an additional coating of Sandstrom Products 9A Dry Film Lubricant to enhance corrosion resistance.

The Predator developed by the Gemtech team is 6.2 inches (15.7 cm) long with a diameter of 1.5 inches (3.8 cm). It weighs 20 ounces (680 grams). Clearly, both Gemtech cans have an envelope and weight that fall well within the Navy specs. From a subjective point of view, the relatively modest length and weight of both the M4-96D and the Predator give the suppressors excellent handling characteristics on any member of the AR15/M16 family of weapons. Both suppressors are especially handy when mounted on an M4A1 or CAR-15.

The Predator and M4-96D are both fabricated from 300 and 400 series stainless steels, and feature an improbably small number of baffles: three. These complex baffles of three different designs feature asymmetric geometries that work the combustion gases very hard without adversely affecting accuracy. Since the Navy had a very ambitious requirement for sustaining full-auto fire, Gemtech developed a blast baffle at the rear of the baffle stack made from Inconel. Inconel is particularly resistant to both heat and the erosive effects of hot combustion gases, and this quality is essential if the suppressor will be subjected to full-auto fire. The use of Inconel provides durability that would have been unthinkable several years ago. While the Predator is slightly shorter and lighter than the M4-96D, as a practical matter both provide the same durability and handiness. But how quiet are they?

Sound Reduction

I conducted sound testing employing the specific equipment and testing protocol advocated at the end of Chapter 5 in the book Silencer History and Performance. The microphone was placed 1.00 meter to the left of the suppressor or muzzle according to U.S. Army testing procedures specified in MIL-STD-1474C. The ambient temperature during the testing was 50øF (10øC). Velocities were measured in feet per second using a P.A.C.T. MKIV timer/chronograph with MKV skyscreens set 24.0 inches apart and the start screen 8.0 feet from the muzzle. The speed of sound during the testing was 1,107 fps (337 mps).

Two kinds of ammunition were tested using an M4A1 carbine with 14.5 inch (36.8 cm) barrel with 1 in 9 rate of twist as the test weapon: M855 ball ammunition and an experimental lot of 5.56x45mm subsonic rounds being developed by Whit Engel of Engel Ballistics Research. These White Tip rounds were developed with 55 grain (3.56 gram) projectiles for 1 in 9 barrel twists and 62 grain (4.03 gram) projectiles for 1 in 7 barrels twists. I used the former for this testing.

The Engel ammunition is intended for maximum stealth, and therefore does not cycle the action. With the mechanical clatter and the ballistic crack eliminated, the silenced M4 carbine with subsonic ammunition subsequently proved deadly on a community of ground squirrels. An improved version of this subsonic 5.56x45mm ammunition will be available commercially by the time you read this. Featuring a moly-coated 53 grain (3.45 gram) flat-base match Sierra bullet, the new round from Engel Ballistics Research is reportedly more accurate and a bit quieter.

The performance of the Predator was compared side by side with one of the great 5.56mm suppressors of all time, a 1994 vintage HRT from AWC Systems Technology. Constructed entirely of 304 stainless steel, measuring 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) long with a diameter of 1.5 inches (3.8 cm), the HRT was finished in a matte black textured powder coating. The M4-96D with Bi-Lock mount was also tested as was a new Gemtech P90 suppressor for the FN P90 Personal Defense Weapon. Although the P90 PDW uses the diminutive Five-seveN (5.7x28mm) cartridge, I test fired Gemtech’s prototype P90 suppressor on the M4A1 using full-powered M855 ball… a real trial by ordeal. Together, these results promised to provide some interesting insights into several important new technologies.

The data of suppressed and unsuppressed sound signatures in Table 1 represent the mean (average) value of at least 10 shots. Table 2 provides the net sound reductions, which provide a more useful measure for comparing the performance of suppressors tested on different days or on different weapons. Figures 1-3 compare the external ballistics of the M855 and White Tip subsonic rounds. The Navy required that competitors achieve at least a 25 dB net sound reduction using M855 ball ammunition as measured 1 meter from the left of the muzzle, with a design goal of at least a 30 decibel reduction. The Gemtech Predator suppressor met the Navy’s minimum sound suppression goals using M855 ball and came within 3 dB of meeting the Navy’s wish list goal of a 30 dB reduction. Remarkably, addition of the Bi-Lock quick-mount to Predator (to make a new model called the M4-96D) improved the suppressor performance enough to meet the Navy’s design goal of a 30 dB reduction. The M4-96D was 3 dB quieter than Gemtech’s Predator and 2 dB quieter than AWC’s HRT.

Furthermore, the Predator was within 1 decibel as quiet as the outstanding HRT suppressor from AWC Systems Technology despite the fact that it is smaller and lighter and hundreds of dollars less expensive. The M4-96D is quieter than the HRT, has a superior mounting system, should be more durable when subjected to full-auto fire (thanks to Gemtech’s Inconel blast baffle), and retails for about the same as the wholesale price of the HRT. Gemtech’s Predator and M4-96D not only provide superior overall technology to the HRT, they do so at a better price. Getting more for less is downright compelling.

Then there is the performance of P90 suppressor, which was as quiet on an M4A1 as the Predator despite the fact that the P90 can was designed for a much smaller cartridge.

Finally, we should examine the phenomenon of first-round pop, which is produced when powder residue and secondary combustion gases combine with oxygen in the suppressor. Minimizing first-round pop can have tactical or social implications if only one round is required and that cold shot is too loud. Virtually eliminating first-round pop requires considerable design prowess. I was impressed that the Predator’s first-round pop averaged +3.1 dB over the course of the testing; some rifle suppressors generate a first-round signature as much as 6-10 decibels louder than the second shot. Adding the Bi-Lock mount to transform the Predator into the M4-96D reduces the FRP to just 0.8 dB. Gemtech’s P90 suppressor, which was designed for the much lower gas volume produced by the 5.7x28mm cartridge, produced a very low first-round pop of +1.1 dB. Clearly, Gemtech’s P90 suppressor merits its own in-depth evaluation. AWC’s HRT also performed well in this category, producing a respectable FRP of +1.7 dB.

These suppressors became very stealthy indeed when employed with subsonic ammunition, producing sound signatures that were dramatically below an MP5 SD and even well below commonly encountered integrally suppressed .22 rimfire rifles. Even jaded suppressor cognoscenti found it hard not to giggle the first time they fired these suppressors with Engel subsonic ammunition. As the accompanying figures show, the trajectory and bullet drop produced by the subsonic ammunition suggest that subsonic rounds will be difficult to place accurately at long range. When employed tactically, these rounds should probably be limited to an effective range of 80 yards (73 meters) to ensure reliable CNS (Central Nervous System) hits on a man-sized target.

Conclusions

Subjectively, the Gemtech Predator sounds almost indistinguishable from the AWC HRT, which is an outstanding suppressor. Yet the Predator, is smaller, lighter, and cheaper. The Gemtech M4-96D has a much better mounting system than either the Predator or HRT. The M4-96D snaps on and off and will return to the same zero every time the suppressor is mounted. Most important of all, the Bi-Lock mount will not loosen during firing. Thread-mount suppressors for the AR15/M16 are notorious for loosening during prolonged firing, which can adversely affect accuracy if not corrected. Since the M4-96D is only $145 more than the Predator—and since the M4-96D is cheaper and quieter and presumably more durable than the HRT—the conclusion seems to be a no-brainer for the tactical user: the Gemtech M4-96D is the only logical choice, in my opinion.

With such an outstanding and affordable product as the M4-96D suppressor with Bi-Lock mount in Gemtech’s stable, I have to ask a rather rude question. Why even bother making the Predator?

The only application where I would consider using the Predator would be on bolt-action varmint rifles where size and weight (or cost) might be factors. I have a tiny single shot .22 Hornet that would be well suited to the Predator. But for sporting or tactical use with a semiautomatic or full-auto rifle or carbine, I’d choose the M4-96D over the Predator every time.

The Predator and the M4-96D with Bi-Lock mount were developed in just four weeks, enabling Gemtech to submit the M4-96D suppressor to the Naval Surface Warfare Center within the time constraints stipulated in the RFP. This represents a significant improvement in the state of the art in an unbelievably short time. No wonder SAR Technical Editor Dan Shea has referred to the Gemtech design team of Phil Dater, Greg Latka, and Jim Ryan as the “Dream Team.”

Both the Predator (with its 1/2×28 TPI threaded mount) and the M4-96D (with its snap-on mount and proprietary replacement flash hider) are now available commercially. Government agencies and qualified U.S. residents can write Gemtech. Catalogs are $5 unless requested on agency letterhead. Gemtech also has a site on the World Wide Web (the URL is http://www.gem-tech.com).

Sources

Silencer History and Performance Book
Wideworld
Dept. SAR
PO Box 1827
Conway, AR 72033

P.A.C.T.
Dept. SAR
PO Box 531525
Grand Prairie, TX 75053
(214) 641-0049

Engel Ballistics Research
Rt. 2, Box 177C
Smithville, TX 78957
(512)360-5327

Gemtech
PO Box 3538
Dept. SAR
Boise, ID 83701
(208) 939-7222

The 20th Annual Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) show hosted by the National Shooting Sports Foundation was again held in Las Vegas January 27th – 30th, 1998. The largest show of its kind in the world celebrated its 20-year anniversary boasting an attendance of 32,756 visiting their 450,000 square foot exhibition at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

As usual, this event was host to a virtual “Who’s Who” in the shooting industry. In attendance this year were 1,650 visitors from almost 90 foreign countries, with 207 foreign exhibitors displaying their wares in addition to more than 1,100 domestic exhibitors.

For any of you who have been led to believe that this event is nothing more than a big room full of 30-30’s and would be of no interest to those of you with an interest in the fast and exotic, you could not be further from the truth. This show, whose obvious primary focus is on the “Sporting” edge of the firearms realm, still has something for everyone.

As you walk through the main entrance identified by a typical Las Vegas style neon sign, you are transported into a firearm enthusiast’s Mecca. You are immediately greeted by the enormous displays of such firearm icons as Browning, Remington, and H&K. These are not your typical gun show style displays consisting of a few tables covered with cloth, but rather intricate satellite branches of the manufacturers, distributors and dealers home locations. Some of these displays are two stories high, with separate offices for getting down to serious business. Most displays include entire inventory lines for prospective purchasers to handle and evaluate. Many use gimmicks and clever marketing strategies to catch your attention, such as beautiful models and free drawings. Many displays include an interactive area where attendees can participate in various competitions or just try out a new product.

Tasco hosted one particular interactive display. It was an opportunity to do a little timed shooting on falling targets. You were supplied with a pistol set up to fire a laser each time you squeezed the trigger and you were to engage a corresponding set of targets as they popped up. You were given a time limit and the total number of targets fallen decided the winner. The person who knocked down the most targets in the allotted time frame would win a Tasco scope. (After taking his turn, this writer hit a few under the leading score and was presented with the consolation prize of a Tasco T-shirt.)

One prominent feature of the last few SHOT Shows seems to be the proliferation of .50 caliber bolt action and semi-automatic rifles into the general sporting arena. There were numerous .50 caliber rifles being offered and displayed. Some with a proven track record such as the LAR Grizzly and the Barrett, were on display, and there were others that I have not seen in the past. A cartridge once thought of as having no application other than in a military role is now being embraced by the main stream market. Long range shooters, such as the 50 Caliber Shooters Association caught on to this round years ago, and it appears as though the rest of the market is finally getting on board.

Mike Dillon of Dillon Precision had an educational display of his Blue Press’s. There were many models set up to allow you a little “hands on”, and there were many of his associates there to answer any questions you may have had. With a group that shoots as much ammunition as our readership, combined with a product as time proven as Dillon’s Blue Press, it was easy to meet with many friends and familiar faces at his display.

I spoke with the crew of Knight’s Armament at their display numerous times. Among other products, they had their very popular M-16 Rail Interface System, their SR-25 .308 Rifle Series, and their new SR-50 .50 caliber semi-auto rifle. Also present at the Knight booth was 7 time NRA Open National High Power Rifle Champion, David Tubb. David won the 1997 event with a custom Knight SR-25 rifle chambered in 6.5mmx.308. David is the first person in history to achieve this prestigious title using a semi-automatic rifle. This is a true testament to the quality of the SR-25 as well as the tremendous proven ability of Mr. Tubb. In his own words, he chose the SR-25 rifle because of several desirable features it entails, as well as Knight’s meticulous quality control.

Jonathan Arthur Ciener was present with his .22 sub-caliber units. His newest addition is for the Glock. He is anticipating a large influx of orders for these units and I believe he is correct. All of Jon’s sub-caliber units have a good reputation for quality and workmanship, and every one I have had the opportunity to handle has functioned fine.

For any of you who are still skeptical that this show is too low key for you to attend, a few other exhibitors whose names you may recognize are Armalite, Gun Parts Corp., and J&T Surplus. In talking with J&T, things were successful enough for them to already book their display area for the 1999 SHOT Show in Atlanta, GA.

Ted Nugent was again in attendance representing his organization, United Sportsmen of America, and the folks from Browning. An avid outdoorsman and legendary rock and roller, Mr. Nugent is a tireless fighter of our rights and is invaluable to the preservation of our shooting heritage and our outdoor tradition. Ted was also on hand to autograph the official ’98 SHOT SHOW Auction Bow, a one of a kind Browning Bloodbrother, donated by Browning, for the lucky high bidder.

There were many in attendance, as usual, who were not displaying any wares, but simply attending to keep up on the latest industry information, and to meet with old friends. I ran into Larry Pratt, Executive Director of Gun Owners of America, John Ross, author of Unintended Consequences, Kent and Kathy Lomont of Lomont Precision Bullets, as well as countless other prominent industry people.

There were many new and exciting products being introduced and displayed this year, and you will have to keep your eye on Chris Choats’ New Review column in this Magazine, for details. He will be testing them and writing about them for many months. For any of you interested in attending this show in the future, the 1999 SHOT SHOW will be held in Atlanta Georgia, and the 2000 SHOT SHOW in New Orleans, Louisiana. I hope to see you there!

National Shooting Sports Foundation Flintlock Ridge Office Center
11 Mile Hill Road
Newtown CT 06470
(203) 426-1320
(203) 426-1087 – Fax

Dillon Precision Products, Inc.
8009 E. Dillon’s Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(602) 948-8009

Knight Armament Company
7750 9th Street S.W.
Vero Beach, FL 32968
(561) 562-5697

Jonathan Arthur Ciener, Inc.
8700 Commerce Street
Cape Canaveral, FL 32920
(407) 868-2200

Ted Nugent
United Sportsmen of America
4133 W. Michigan Avenue
Jackson, MI 49202
(517) 750-3640

J & T Surplus
PO Box 430
Winchester, KY 40391
(606) 745-1757

ArmaLite,Inc.
PO Box 299
Geneseo, IL 61254
(309) 944-6939

Gun Parts Corp.
226 Williams Lane
W. Hurley, NY 12491
(914) 679-2417

Some time ago I had the opportunity to examine a submachine gun held in a private collection. Having owned or operated most of the common mass produced versions of these wonderful firearms for over thirty-five years, this one was not familiar at all. The ‘D’, ‘E’ and ‘S’ markings on the left side of the receiver obviously indicated German or Austrian origins. The wood furniture and quality of workmanship strongly suggested a time period between World War I and World War II. In other words, a second generation firearm. Unfortunately, the magazine and the recoil/return spring were missing which negated test firing, however, the following could be deduced from the available physical evidence the firearm itself:

It was 9mm Parabellum caliber, no surprise there. It fired from an open bolt. The magazine appeared to have been the type used in an MP-34 or 53 submachine gun, judging by the shape of the magazine well.
The receiver was slotted for re-filling the magazine with a stripper clip. Its barrel moved back slightly upon firing to unlock the bolt, extracting and ejecting the fired cartridge case. Barrel length 12 1/2”, overall length 30 1/2”. The rear sight was very similar to an MP-28 sight

This system of recoil operation will certainly help keep the weight of the moving parts down, but one can only wonder how long fragile parts such as an extractor will last. The rate of fire must have been fairly high, but without knowing the strength of the barrel spring, and the recoil/return spring not the weight of the bolt I wouldn’t even hazard a guess. This firearm may well have been designed as a ‘project’ by an employee of a German /Austrian arms factory. It exhibits a great deal of handwork especially in the many individual welds used to construct the pistol grip assembly. It must also have been difficult to cock with the bolt locking into the barrel. In fact, a rather crudely welded crossbar has been added to the original serrated ‘cocking piece’. It does not appear to have original, but added later somewhat hurriedly.

How it reached North America has been lost to us, probably the customary soldier souvenir route. If it rings a bell with anyone I would like to know. Perhaps one of our advanced North American collectors might know, or a European reader!

The Italian Beretta 38/42 submachine gun is probably one of the most anonymous submachine guns that was issued in World War II. The Berettas have often been transcended by the better known German MP40 machinenpistole and the U.S. Thompson submachine gun. Hollywood and television are partially responsible for the Beretta’s lack of prominence. It has probably been ignored by film makers because of its unassertive carbine like appearance.

The fact is, the Beretta subguns were arguably the best weapons of their type issued during WWII, and had a more successful post war commercial career than any other submachine gun used in the war. The WWII Beretta subguns were manufactured with slight modifications up until the 1960s. During WWII the Beretta earned respect from troops on both ends of its sights. Since Italy was an Axis power allied with the Nazis, some Beretta subguns were obtained by the German Wehrmacht. The aggressive German Army issued submachine guns to their troops in far greater numbers than the Italians.

The Moschetto Automatico Beretta 38 series of weapons were designed by Tullio Marengoni, a talented Italian designer. One of Marengoni’s earlier efforts was the Beretta Model 1918. The model 1918 was based on the Villar Perosa design. He is better known for his 38 series weapons, the first of which was the prewar 1938A model. The early 1938A Berettas rival the famous Colt produced 1921 Thompsons in quality of construction. The fine 1938A model would continue to be manufactured, in several variations, until 1950.

As World War II continued, the Beretta 1938A was redesigned by Marengoni to be produced faster and cheaper, to keep up with the increasing demand for weapons. This trend to expedite war time production was being practiced by every country in the war that was producing weapons. The result of his efforts was the Moschetto Automatico Beretta 38/42 submachine gun, or the MAB 38/42.

Although the Beretta 38/42 design lacked the refinements of the previous 1938A model, it was actually handier and faster on target than the larger, heavier 38A. Gone were all the milled steel machined parts, replaced by sheet metal stampings. The polished blue finish of the 38A was also deemed unnecessary and the 38/42 models were finished in a dull blue/black. Most of the functionally important attributes of the 38A were retained. All Beretta subguns used the common open bolt/ blow back design. Beretta manufactured subguns also feature a non-reciprocating cocking knob/dust cover. While the gun is firing, the cocking handle remains stationary and the dust cover encloses the actuator slot to keep out debris that might lead to untimely stoppages.

The 38/42 features a simple folding leaf sight, calibrated for 100 and 200 meters. The front sight is an unprotected blade type. Early models had a fluted barrel to aid in heat dissipation from extended firing. An easier to manufacture smooth barrel was fitted to later production guns. Beretta barrels were made from nickel steel and rifled on a broaching machine. Both style barrels had two compensator slots cut into the top at the muzzle.

The 38A dual trigger configuration was retained in the 38/42 and subsequent models. This feature would become a trade mark of Beretta submachine guns. The front trigger controlled semi-automatic fire, while the rearmost trigger was for the full auto function. The rear full auto trigger is serrated to aid the operator in knowing what trigger his finger was on in low visibility situations. The bolt is machined from nickel steel. The sear is made from heat treated steel, as are the trigger group components.

The Beretta wooden stocks are made from dried beech. The 38/49 and later models could be ordered with a walnut stock. There were a few prototype 38/42 models with a folding stock similar to the German MP40. This was called the Model 1. A similar folding stock gun was patterned after the 38/44, it was the Model 2. Neither gun was mass produced.

After the Italian Army finally capitulated in September 1943, the Germans continued to occupy Northern Italy where the Beretta plant was located. Manufacture of the Beretta 38/42 continued under German supervision. 38/42s produced under German occupation of the factory are often marked with Nazi Waffenamts. The stocks on these Berettas are stamped VT inside a circle. The Nazi designated the 38/42 subguns as the MP740(i). The Nazi troops highly regarded the Beretta, mainly for the accuracy in both full auto and semiauto modes. The Berettas saw much action in the Italian and North African desert campaigns. The Berettas were also utilized by the Italian partisans that caused a lot of grief for the Germans troops occupying their country. Romania also purchased 38/42s during the war.

The Beretta factory produced weapons throughout the course of the war, and continued to manufacture weapons even after the war ended. The 38/42 design was simplified by designers near the war’s end. This was done with an eye towards post war export sales. The new model was designated as the 38/44, introduced in 1945.

The modifications this time were very minor and consisted of a change to the bolt and recoil spring design. Instead of using the smaller spring and guide rod configuration of the 38A and 38/42, the 38/44 used a shorter, lighter bolt and a large recoil spring that slid over the rear of the bolt. The bolt in the 38/42 is 9.1” long, while the 38/44 bolt measures 5.9”. Both bolts have a fixed, integral firing pin protrusion. A new receiver end cap was fitted, without the hole that the previous models had for the recoil spring guide rod to protrude through. Despite the lighter bolt the cyclic rate remained the same, due to the heavier recoil spring. All 38/44 models had the same smooth barrel of the late production 38/42 model.

The parts between the 38/42 and the 38/44 are totally interchangeable. Simply by switching the bolt and recoil spring, a 38/42 can be changed to the simpler 38/44 configuration and vice versa. Other parts, stock, barrel and trigger group are also the same. Many references state that the two piece recoil spring guide assembly of the 38A and 38/42 models made the guns operate smoother. Although this may or may not be true, I found no evidence of such. To me both guns seem to shoot identically. 38/44s and later models were sold to Syria, Pakistan, Iran and Costa Rica.

Soon the Beretta 38/44 submachine gun evolved into yet another model, the 38/49. Again the changes were minimal, and consisted mainly of a new cross bolt safety. The 38/49 was aimed towards commercial sales, and many were sold to post war Germany, mainly for police use. The Germans designated their Beretta 38/49s the German MP1 model.

Beretta eventually stopped using year designations in their model numbers. The factory management felt that by designating models by the year they were designed, it gave potential customers a perception that the guns they were buying were of an old design (in fact they were). The 38/49 designation was changed to the Model 4.

In 1957 another variation was introduced, the Model 5. The Model 5 remained virtually the same as the previous model except for a grip safety feature. The odd grip safety is located in the finger groove of the stock, just behind the magazine well. The grip safety is designed to be activated with the shooter’s weak hand. The bolt cannot be retracted unless the grip safety is depressed. It will also lock the bolt in the open position if not depressed. The Model 5 was produced until 1959. Some of Beretta’s customers, most notably the German police, preferred the Model 4 without the grip safety feature.

One of the components that helped make the Beretta submachine guns such a success was its excellent double feed magazine. The double feed design was much less prone to jamming, required less spring pressure to operate, and was easy to load. The Beretta box type magazines were made in 20, 30 and 40 round models. Even though the double feed magazine design was the most reliable, the single feed, double stack magazine was the most common design used on most WWII submachine guns. The German MP40, U.S. M3, and the Russian PPSh41 all used the double stack, single feed design.

The UZI magazine is a direct copy of the successful Beretta design. The U.S. Thompson submachine guns also used a double feed magazine during WWII, but it wasn’t as durable as the Beretta magazine that was made of heavier gauge metal. Another positive feature of the Beretta magazine is that they will interchange and function in virtually all the Italian subguns produced! Of interest to today’s shooters, the aftermarket Uniclip reloading system made for fast loading of the UZI magazines works perfectly on the Beretta magazines.

The Beretta subguns today are occasionally offered by dealers or individuals. The highly desirable 38A models are usually the most difficult to locate. Both the 38A and 38/42 Berettas are listed on the BATF’s Curio and Relics list. The 38/44 and later models surprisingly are not listed, although some may be transferable as C&R guns.

A few years ago the somewhat obscure Beretta subguns were real sleepers, and could be purchased at very reasonable prices. Those days unfortunately have long since passed.

If you ever have the chance to own or fire any of the Beretta subguns, you will discover what the TV and movie producers obviously didn’t… what a fine accurate weapon the Berettas really is, despite its docile looks.

The latest in police tactical gear and a valuable program of practical classroom strategic presentations were offered during the premier edition of the Tactical Technologies Conference and Exhibition held December 4-5 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The conference opened with keynote presentations by Sgt. Mike Albanese of the Los Angeles Police Department’s SWAT unit and Lt. Col. Gary Schenkel, of the United States Marine Corps’ Warfighting Lab.

Albanese delivered a comprehensive tactical debriefing of the “North Hollywood Incident,” on the Bank of America, North Hollywood, California shootout involving two heavily armed subjects with fully-automatic weapons. His talk addressed first responder tactical considerations, command and control concerns, officer-down rescue tactics, weapon/tactical equipment issues, and protocol matters impacting Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) units.

Addressing the topic of “Urban Warfare,” Schenkel gave an up-brief on the Urban Warrior experiment the USMC is currently conducting. The movement of world populations tends to be centered in urban areas, and thus the USMC believes future wars will be fought-not on the battlefield, but rather in the streets. Schenkel described the concept of the “three block war” in which action ranging from humanitarian mission through violent combat, occurs all within a three block operating area. Schenkel noted that the military is leveraging the tactics, techniques, procedures, and technologies used in local law enforcement.

Many visitors registered for the conference program which was divided into two tracks. Tactical Operations and High Risk Patrol. Each track was divided into four sessions.

The tactical operations classes focused on: Domestic Terrorism, during which agents from the FBI’s Counter Terrorism Unit provided information on domestic terrorist groups, their methods of operation and activities; the Mechanical Breaching class familiarized tactical officers with the variety of commercially manufactured tools available for rapid forced entry; the Surveillance Measures seminar provided attendees with a basic working knowledge of the various types of electronic visual and audio equipment available for resolving a tactical situation; and, the Explosives Detection & Booby Traps class provided an update on the latest technology for the bomb technician.

The High Risk Patrol classes included: Initial Response to High Risk Situations giving attendees a game plan for response to critical incidents; the First Responder Communication with Suspects in High Risk Situations class taught the verbal management of a crisis situation; and Less Lethal Weapons & Munitions Technology and Their Application to Patrol Operations showed the latest in less lethal weapons and munitions technology.

The most popular aspect of the event was the manufacturer’s exhibition of the latest in law enforcement tools. Here is a rundown on some of the more noteworthy products and exhibits.

O.F. Mossberg & Sons showed a couple of new shotguns of interest to police agencies. A pump action shotgun with a box magazine is now available, as is the new Model 590, a double action trigger scattergun with a 13-14 pound pull. The company is also hopeful of receiving approval to import new semi-auto sporterized versions of the Galil and UZI carbines. See related story in this issue.

Mossberg also displayed the UZI Eagle handgun line with polygonal rifling, night sights and availability in three sizes and three calibers. All three models are available in traditional decocking double action and are chambered for either 9mm or .40 S&W. A .45 ACP ‘Short Slide’ version is also available. In addition, special compact double-action-only models can be specified in 9mm and .40 S&W.

Military and police buyers on the show floor continued to show a great deal of interest in the original UZI machine pistol as well the Micro Galil, both imported by Mossberg’s UZI America division. The UZI has stood up to the harshest environments and conditions and has proven itself over the past 40 or so years. Both the original open bolt design and the newer closed bolt models are available. The Micro Galil carries a full 35-round magazine of .223 ammo, yet is no larger than the standard UZI.

An interesting new firearm accessory product is the Sally Speedloaders, Inc. (Dept. SAR, 2344 N. Old Bethlehem Pike, Quakertown, PA 18951) rapid loading tool. For use with AR-15/M-16 rifle magazines using .223 ammunition, they enable the user to reload empty magazines using only one hand. The product attaches to any belt up to 2-inches wide making it hard to lose. Production of a 7.62x39mm version for the AK-47 series and derivatives is planned.

In use, an empty magazine is slid into the bottom of the speedloader while a stripper clip is inserted into the speedloader’s top. Push the ammunition strip into the magazine and press the thumb lever to release the magazine and allow it to free fall into the hand.

The Nightstalker “So Smart” laser module (from DeMilt Associates LLC, PO Box 731, Olney, MD 20832) rapidly mounts from one weapon platform to another without losing bore sight. It incorporates a visible 635nm laser for targeting in dusk to dark conditions, an adjustable focus infrared flashlight assembly for covert illumination of targets up to 300 meters, and an infrared 830nm laser for target designation by operators using night vision goggles.

Bullet Coat is a solid film lubricant that can be dipped, sprayed or spray/baked on bullets, to allow all shooters the advantages of lubricating with Molybdenum Disulfide. Bullet Coat is known for providing outstanding lubrication and improvements in long range accuracy, while reducing lead dissipation and bore fouling. It is available from KG Products, Dept. SAR, 537 Louis Drive, Newbury Park, CA 91320.

Colt’s Manufacturing Co. has added the .45 ACP Defender to its stable of down-sized pistols. Constructed with an aluminum alloy receiver, stainless steel slide and a three-inch barrel, it is a shortened and souped up version of the time honored 1911-A1 pistol. Sights are fixed white dot Colt Competition style set on a dehorned slide with an extended thumb safety, an upswept grip safety, light weight trigger and Hogue wraparound grips with finger grooves. Empty weight is 24 ozs. while overall length is 6 3/4-inches with a 5-inch sight radius. Cartridge capacity is a full 7-rounds.

During some initial range work with a Defender this author has received from the manufacturer for test and evaluation, the pistol performed flawlessly with a variety of ammunition and delivered surprisingly good accuracy in contrast to its short sight radius. The rubber wraparound grips help to cushion recoil which was not excessive despite the light alloy frame.

This author also met up with Sandy Chisholm, president of North American Arms who reports his new Guardian .32 ACP, 6+1 shot double action only stainless steel pistol is now being shipped to dealers. Representing an effective balance between ballistic capability and package size, overall dimensions are 4.4-inches long by 3.3-inches high by .085-inches wide. Unloaded weight is 13.5 ozs.

The Guardian is intended to capitalize on the popularity of the Seecamp .32 (which is handmade in limited quantities and nearly impossible to find on dealer’s shelves) as well as the Beretta Tomcat .32 (which is also scarce). North American Arm’s product is designed to reliably shoot any commercially available .32 ACP ammo. Distinguishing features include a low profile sighting system, frame mounted magazine release and an integrally designed trigger over-travel stop. The author has had an opportunity to do some test firing of this pistol and found that it performed admirably.

A less-than-lethal subject incapacitation system was shown by Sage Control Ordnance, Inc. (Dept. SAR, 630 Oakland Ave., Pontiac, MI 48342). The L3AOS (Less Lethal Launched Ammunition and Ordnance System) fires a variety of available 37mm munitions encompassing: baton type polyurethane projectile impact ammo producing 153 f/lbs. of kinetic energy at the muzzle for use in controlling an individual or a rioting crowd; CS Irritant Agent Baton Type Impact ammo which delivers a double punch of a chemical agent along with the blunt trauma impact of a baton to control particularly unruly suspects; and, a Barricade Penetrator round which utilizes a hard plastic penetrator ring that “cookie cutters” its way through doors and windows and then delivers a high concentration of micronized CS dust.

Sage also showed several shotguns worthy of note. The Model SW-PC ‘Sidewinder’TM is a fully concealable shotgun readily capable of being put into service quickly without concern for bulky butt stocks or long barrels. Comprised of a Remington 1100 or 11-87 auto-loading shotgun with Sage’s unique action spring system,. it is equipped with a quick detachable stud and a rigid loop which allows it to be carried by a sling , or suspended from a shoulder harness. Barrel length is 14 1/2-inches making it an NFA weapon.

Two uniquely-designed folding utility tools permitting convenient one-hand use were shown by Remington Arms Co. (Dept. SAR, 870 Remington Drive, Madison, NC 27025). The blade tops have a patented oval thumbhole opener allowing them to be opened to a locked position with one hand. The combination of easy handling and advanced blade design is particularly applicable to law enforcement and emergency personnel.

The Single Blade One-Hander contains a 4 1/8-inch drop point blade with 50-50 serrated and plain cutting edge. The serrated section has a progressive, repeated pattern of one large and two small serrations providing superior cutting performance on tough but resilient materials such as rope, leather, heavy cardboard, or rubber hoses.

The Two-Blade One-Hander utilizes the same master blade as the single-blade version, plus a second 3 3/4-inch blade containing small, even serrations and a sturdy, sharpened hook on the end. The small serrations on this blade work effectively for sawing through hard materials. The freedom hook on the end is ideal for rapid cutting of seat belts, cords, wire, etc. by law enforcement and emergency personnel to free trapped accident victims.

Both knives have a lockback release (double lockback on the two-blade version) that can also be operated with one hand. The lock mechanism includes Teflon bearing discs for smooth operation and wear-resisting lubrication. For added convenience, a removable black stainless steel clip is attached to the handle of each knife.

“The master key for every door,” is how Fenrir Industries, Inc. describes its In-Forcer power operated door breaching system. Successful drug raids rely on surprise, but if the suspect’s door has to be hit more than once before entry is gained, the element of surprise is lost. Available with an optional power head design, the In-Forcer boosts power up to twelve times that of even the most forceful entry systems. The unit can deliver as much as 67,800 f/lbs. of kinetic force.

The Andros series of hazardous-duty mobile robots allow a range of responses to a threat situation-without risking human lives. Features of the remote-controlled mobile servants include an on-board real time video system, a mechanical arm, two-way audio, radiation detector and a mounted shotgun that can be fired by remote control.

Sponsoring organizations of the show included the National Tactical Officers Association, and the Philadelphia Police Department. While there was a great rush of activity during the show’s opening hours, attendance drifted off somewhat and hit high and low periods during the rest of the exhibition. The show’s promoters (the Varro Group of Shawnee Mission, Kansas) were thus uncertain if the exhibition will be offered again.

The small New England town of Dover-Foxcroft, Maine would appear to be a most unlikely place to hold a military firearms shoot and expo to most people. But what most people don’t know is that the hills surrounding the Dover-Foxcroft area are no stranger to machine gunfire. In fact, even before any battlefield had heard the reverberating echo of gunfire back in the 1880’s, the Dexter, Dover-Foxcroft area of Maine was host to this country’s, and the world’s, first ever true machine gun fire. It was on a small hill overlooking Lake Wassookeag in the early 1880’s that an inventor from Maine called Hiram Stevens Maxim shot one of the world’s first machine guns.

Hiram Stevens Maxim was born on February 5, 1840, in the small town of Orneville, Maine, just outside of Dover-Foxcroft. At the very early age of 15, he made his first prototype of a makeshift machine gun out of wood and submitted it to a gun maker. Although he expressed interest in the concept, he felt it would be much too costly to manufacture at that time.

Throughout the years that followed, Hiram Maxim continued to dream and work on his idea of a fully automatic firearm. It was not until July 16,1883 that his dream was finally realized with the world’s first truly fully automatic firearm called appropriately, the “Forerunner.”

The Forerunner was comprised of a blowback system that featured a hydraulically dampened, and spring returned breech block. The ammunition was fed by a continuous belt of rimless cartridges that was unheard of at that time, also specially designed by Maxim. The Forerunner was a large and very cumbersome machine-gun that wasn’t much to look at and never had the opportunity to be proven battle worthy. But the fact remained, the world had now got a glimpse of it’s first true “machine-gun” from a little known man called Hiram Stevens Maxim, from the obscure New-England state of Maine.

Now more than one hundred and ten years later the hills around Dover-Foxcroft, Maine, are once again filled with the distinctive sound of machine-gun fire when the Hiram Maxim Historical Society holds it’s annual Northeast Military Shoot & Expo on the third weekend of July of each year.

Each year, on the third weekend of July, fellow machine-gunners from all over the country and some enthusiasts from as far away as England start converging on the little New-England town of Dover-Foxcroft , for what most people who attend call one of the most exciting and fastest growing machine-gun events in the country. Some of the people who make this yearly pilgrimage start arriving as early as the Wednesday before the event in hopes of securing a coveted site at the limited camping area within the gate. Other people arrive early in hopes of have some time to visit the area were Hiram Maxim was born and see the famous lake were Hiram shot one of the world’s first machine-guns. But whatever the reason, the people that come to this event share one thing in common: their passion and love of machine guns.

The three-day event officially kicks off on Friday when the gates open at 9:00AM to the public. All shooters have to be registered and are given the safety rules of the range and their appropriate badges. The spectators, on the other hand, just have a chance to browse around the more than 100 dealer tables and military displays at the event, or maybe take a minute to sign up for a flame-thrower demo while the shooters prepare their guns for the day’s awesome firepower display.

By 10:00AM, the firing line is almost ready to rock & roll. The firing line is set up with more than 50 line positions filled with beltfeds ready to roar. The air is filled with an overwhelming feeling of anticipation as the shooters and spectators eagerly wait for the signal to open fire. The range officer calls a brief shooters meeting to go over all the safety rules one more time. This year, the official start-off comes with a few rounds from a beautifully refurbished 1943 US-M1 57mm artillery piece that was brought up to the event from Vermont. A brief pause is given while the guys with the 57mm do a quick safety check on the gun after firing and move it from the line. Then the range officer gives the call to commence fire. With an unmistakable crescendo, the line lights up with an awesome display, flames from the beltfed machine guns and sub-guns, while the cars and other targets down range blow up and catch fire as the many thousands of rounds make impact with the various pyrotechnics placed down range. The firing line stays “hot” until noontime when the shooters take a break for lunch and to do any reloading or needed repairs on their guns. During the lunch break dealers are given the opportunity to give demonstrations of their products on the line and spectators are given the opportunity to do various things, such as try their hand at a flame-thrower or make arrangements to rent a machine gun for later. The line starts up again around 1:00- 1:30 PM and goes until 5:00 PM with breaks off and on to give the shooters a chance to rest and reload.

Saturday the gates opened at the same time as the previous day – 9:00 AM sharp. This year the weather brought as perfect a day as any one could wish for. It was slightly overcast with a cool breeze, so there was no danger of the shooters and spectators over-heating.

The whole time that you are attending the Hiram Maxim Shoot, you can’t help but notice the very strict safety and security regulations that are enforced. If you talk to any of the staff, they will tell you that they have a little saying that they live by which goes, “ asking us to overlook a simple safety rule would be like asking us to compromise our entire attitude toward the value of your life”. And believe me, there is no compromising when it comes to safety. There is a doctor, fire-crew and ambulance on site at all times – just in case.

Saturday tends to be the day that the shooters look forward to the most because they will be allowed to shoot tracers in the evening until around 9:30 PM. The tracer-fire show on Saturday is truly a spellbinding thing to witness. If the shooter is proficient with his machine gun he can give the spectators a spectacular laser-like show that is truly amazing. This year on the line there seemed to be an unofficial competition among several shooters to out-do each other. A couple of times you were left wondering if there was any end to the belts that were being shot.

The whole event winds down on Sunday. In the dealer tents, most of the dealers are trying to make that last minute bargain basement deal so they don’t have to truck it all back home. Even some of the shooters are starting to wear thin as their ammunition runs out. The line shuts down around noon-time so that the various competitions can be held. The competitions include marksmanship rifle where the competitor is timed as he engages several targets at 200 yards, a belt-fed competition that is much the same, and a sub-gun competition where teams are timed as they shoot a series of bowling pins off of a table. The competitions are just recreational and are no way as competitive as NFA championship matches, but they just give the shooter a chance to win a trophy and maybe boost their ego a little while have a load of fun.

What separates the Hiram Maxim Northeast Military Shoot and Expo from most events of its kind is the people that make it work. The Hiram Maxim Historical Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the safe and responsible use of firearms and to educating people about machine guns. All of the people that work the event do it for nothing more then the special comraderie. The members of HMHS share more than a common passion for firearms; they believe that without the freedoms that allow them to hold such an event, this country would not be free.

For more information on the Hiram Maxim Historical Society contact them at: P.O. Box 1491 Waterville, Maine 04903 or check out the web-site at http://www.hirammaxim.com.

The Use of Sound Suppressors on High-Powered Rifles

This article will deal with choosing, loading and using accurate subsonic rifles. Unlike the more powerful supersonic rifles, whose bullets generate their own supersonic crack, subsonic rifles are capable of delivering very quiet, almost undetectable, accurate fire. The sound of a subsonic bullet whizzing through the air at 1,000 fps is very quiet indeed, certainly less than an arrow from a bow at 200 fps. We won’t get heavily into the science of it, but a velocity of 1,000 fps (or roughly 300 meters per second) has long been considered optimal, since well before World War II. Any slower, and we’re leaving precious velocity on the table. Any faster, and one runs the risk of breaking into the sound barrier (1,100 fps) in a hot environment, where gunpowder burns more effectively. A warm barrel or a hot cartridge can easily push velocity up another 150 fps, even though the cartridge contains a bullet of the same weight and powder charge.

With a properly designed system, the loudest sound will be that of the bullet strike. With effective suppressor technology we can all but eliminate the sound of a muzzle blast. By hovering around 1,000 fps we can virtually eliminate bullet flight noise. The only thing left is the plop of bullet impact, which can be quite loud on occasion.

Power Level

Subsonic bullets travel much slower than high-powered rifle bullets. Since the formula for energy squares velocity, it can be seen that the subsonic bullet must try to make up for the loss of power with mass, clever bullet design and accurate shot placement.

One standard formula divides velocity squared by a factor of 450,400. That, times the bullet weight in grains, will equal energy in foot pounds. Let’s take a 200 grain, .308 bullet and crunch some numbers. At 2,400 fps that bullet will deliver 2,558 foot pounds of energy. At 1,000 fps the same slug will only deliver 444 foot pounds of energy.

A 300 grain, .44 Magnum bullet driven at 1,000 fps will delivery 666 foot pounds of energy. A 55 grain, .223 bullet will develop 1,250 foot pounds of energy at 3,200 fps. While the energy of a .223 on paper may be twice that of the .44 Magnum, the 44’s greater mass and deeper penetration will prove far more deadly on large animals. In the 1960s the friends and family of the Ruger empire spent quite a bit of time in Africa with their .44 Magnum, semi-auto carbines. Most who used those .44 carbines were very impressed with their lethality. The .44 is a lot more effective than the paper ballistics would lead one to believe.

For those who enjoy playing with calculators, a factor of 2.22, times the proposed bullet weight in grains, will equal foot pounds of energy at a velocity of 1,000 fps.

Barrel Length and Porting

One doesn’t need much barrel length to develop a minimal 1,000 fps of velocity with a heavy, large caliber bullet. An 8 to 10 inch tube will provide plenty of acceleration. For the record, a good 10 inch barrel is fully as accurate as a much longer one. One more time, with feeling, a 10 inch barrel is fully as accurate as a 30 inch barrel. We often note a significant increase in accuracy when we cut a 24 inch barrel back to 10 inches. A proper chamber, adequate rifling twist rate and a perfect muzzle crown are all more important than barrel length.

If porting (holes drilled in the barrel to bleed propellant gas) is used as one of the devices to reduce the noise of a suppressed firearm, it is recommended that the barrel be from 10 to 12 inches in length. Porting, when properly executed, can reduce a suppressor’s overall report by as much as 40%. All ports should carry a substantial 45 degree bevel at the bore interface, or they will shave off copper or lead from the bullets, which will pack up the primary expansion chamber and the ports themselves. If a suppressor eventually weighs 8 pounds more than it used to, there is a good chance that sharp or burred ports are at fault. Many manufacturers bevel the outside of each port, but this does little or nothing to cure the problem. Beveling the inside of each port is not easy, but it must be done.

For private ownership in the U.S., a pistol barrel may be of any length. A rifle barrel must be over 16 inches long. Any shorter, and a $200 Federal tax stamp (and a Form 4) will be due on private ownership. Municipality, county or state ownership of a short barreled rifle or suppressor will of course require federal registration, but no tax stamp will be due.

Caliber Selection and Bullet Shape

Since velocity is rigidly fixed, the most important area of the selection process will be based on the assigned role of the firearm. Plinkers and target shooters are well served with the common .22 LR round. It’s cheap, quiet, available and accurate. The high-speed .22 LR round is transonic, which means that it starts out faster than 1,100 fps (supersonic) but then its velocity decays into the area where parts of the bullet are supersonic, and parts are not. When a bullet travels through the transonic range the frictional pull trying to slow it down is from four to five times greater than the pull that exists at subsonic velocity. Simply put, this differential pull causes instability. A stable, round-nosed, flat-based bullet (like the .22 LR) will be less accurate in the transonic range. Inherently unstable, hollow-point, boat-tailed bullets (with the preponderance of mass to the rear) will lose all stability in the transonic range, tumbling end-over-end and losing any semblance of accuracy at that speed. Thirty years ago, those who drove Chrysler vehicles on slippery roads in the northern states found that, in a situation where control was lost, the vehicle would spin and settle into a rear end-first attitude, because the rear end was heavier than the front end. Those who drove Ford products (which typically had less rear-wheel traction on ice) soon learned that the heavier front end caused the vehicle to be more stable in a spin. Its natural movement in a minimal traction situation was front-end first. Sharply pointed bullets have the heaviest end at the rear, and they take a much greater spin rate to keep them pointed in the right direction. Bullets with blunt points and hollow bases (Like hollow-based, wadcutters) are inherently stable in flight. They fly straight, even without spin.

In terms of effectiveness on live targets, it is very hard to beat a blunt-nosed or flat-tipped bullet. Put another way, a subsonic bullet that is a true cylinder will deliver more shock, hemorrhage and trauma than any other shape. Sharply pointed and round-nosed projectiles will slip right through, while causing minimal damage. It has been said that some .30 caliber projectiles are designed to expand at 1,000 fps, but this remains to be proven to my satisfaction. Sharply pointed bullets will penetrate deeply at subsonic velocities – pushing nerve tissue and blood vessels aside, rather than cutting them. Unless the bullet hits the base of the brain or a major nerve center, the animal will run away, usually to die a slow and agonizing death. Most pointed and round-nosed .30 caliber rifle bullets are totally lacking in knockdown power at subsonic velocities. We hear the same stories of subsonic .30 caliber bullet inadequacies over and over again, and are frankly quite tired of them. Subsonic .30 caliber bullets will not expand in large animals. The only effective .30 caliber subsonic bullet will have a totally flat front end.

For those entities involved with animal control, the subsonic .22 LR round is relatively humane (meaning it kills quickly) and effective on animals weighing up to roughly 20 pounds. On snakes and small vermin the Remington Subsonic, hollow-point round is fairly effective. It usually stays subsonic, even in long, unported barrels, and is fairly accurate. On very small rodents a round called the .22 CB Long offers reduced bullet weight and less penetration. It is not a very accurate round, but works OK for squirrels in attics and pigeons inside barns at close range. It will sometimes penetrate a sheet metal roof, so one must be careful regarding a backstop. On larger, tougher animals CCI’s SGB (small game bullet) offers extreme accuracy and deep, effective penetration. Unlike high-velocity hollowpoints, which often fragment and perform poorly, the SGB is one of the first modern attempts at scientific design in a rimfire cartridge. Its bullet is of hardened lead, with a solid, but slightly flattened tip. If I were going to pack a small .22 rifle into a wilderness survival kit, it would be accompanied by a large supply of SGBs. They work well on small animals, and work better than any other .22 LR round on larger animals. Until someone comes up with a .22 LR wadcutter (I hope CCI is listening) the SGB will remain the most effective .22 rimfire round available.

The next stop up the ladder of higher subsonic energy is the move to a .30 caliber weapon. The .308 is a logical place to start, and (with a light charge of fast powder) it can be effective in a weapon that is designed to be both subsonic and supersonic. A 1 in 10 inch twist will stabilize up to a 200 grain, round-nosed, flat-based bullet. However, the extra room in the .308 case provides a substantial cushion, which can cause problems with efficiency and consistency. The most ideal situation results when a cartridge case is just big enough to hold its charge of powder and a bullet, with no room to spare. In the 60s a fellow named Joe Apache necked a .223 case up to .30 caliber. The result was an interesting cartridge called the .30 Apache, which sat ignored for quite a number of years.

Eventually the use of suppressors burgeoned in the U.S. and Grendel Arms (now known as Keltec) began experimenting with a similar case in a suppressed M16. The concept eventually developed into what is now known as the .300 Whisper. That small .30 caliber cartridge will easily launch a bullet as heavy as 250 grains at a subsonic velocity. Not surprisingly, the longer, heavier bullets have to be spun at a full turn in 6 to 8 inches in order to stabilize at low velocity. Again, it has been said that some of these heavy bullets will expand at subsonic velocity, but I’ve seen absolutely no evidence of it. Indeed, they usually perform like a knitting needle, poking a small, straight hole, in one side and out the other, wasting 90 percent of their limited energy beyond the primary target. I’ve heard the word tumble used in conjunction with the .300 Whisper, but I’ve not seen that happen either. The heavy bullets are capable of extreme penetration, but I have seen absolutely no inclination towards tumbling. Many have had great expectations for the subsonic Whisper cartridge, but until they develop a flat point for a hard, .30 caliber bullet, I feel that they will continue to be disappointed.

Dr. Martin Fackler, founder of International Wound Ballistics Association, devoted a considerable amount of research, study and experimentation to the subject of subsonic bullets. Based on his own and other research going back 200 years, Dr. Fackler (in a nutshell) concluded that hollowpoints and expanding bullets are a waste of effort. One can do no better than to use a simple, hard-cast lead bullet with a totally flat nose, and with sharp edges at the transition between the flat face and the cylinder walls. Such a bullet does not move through the air with the extreme ease of a VLD (very low drag) bullet, but its terminal effect is considerable.

The next logical step up in caliber is to .338. In the early 70s, Max Atchisson of Georgia cut off the shoulder of a .223 case and trimmed it to an overall length of 1.412 inches. The result was a case mouth of the perfect size for a .338 bullet. Called the .338-223 Straight, the cartridge is of great interest. Like the .300 Whisper, it will launch a heavy bullet very quietly. I am told that either of these efficient bullets will arrive at a target 300 yards distant with a loss of less than 100 fps. Those who are used to supersonic bullets will find this astounding, but one must remember that it takes a lot of energy to break the sound barrier on a continuous basis. A subsonic bullet that isn’t wobbling in flight is the Honda Civic of the firearms world. It moves through the air with a velocity decay rate roughly one-fourth the rate of a supersonic bullet. Until we get a flat-nosed .338 bullet, this cartridge will also suffer from the same knitting needle-like effect.

We could stop to visit with the .38, but I’m going to bypass that and settle on the .44, which is really .43 (actually .429) caliber. Ruger now makes a lever-action and a bolt-action rifle, both of which are chambered in the powerful .44 Magnum cartridge. We’ve been waiting for twenty years for these rifles, and are immensely pleased that they are finally on the market. Wadcutters and flat-nosed, cast bullets are available in weights from 185 to 300 grains. For those who hand cast, the weights range from 80 to 362 grains. Since factory ammunition is usually too fast, the subsonic .44 Magnum rifle is a handloading proposition. Fortunately, Mike Dillon’s Square Deal press is affordable, and cranks satisfactory rounds out at a prodigious rate. The twist in Ruger’s .44 barrel is 1 turn in 20 inches, which seems to stabilize 300 grain bullets effectively. It should be mentioned that, while barrel leading can be a problem with lead bullets driven beyond 1,400 fps, it will not be a problem with lubricated, hard-cast bullets driven to 1,000 fps. We should also mention that we’ve been buying plain-based, hard-cast, lubricated lead bullets from Brownells, and that we shoot them backwards in order to get the maximum effect. Midway, Dillon and quite a number of other suppliers sell swaged or cast lead, lubricated bullets for both the .44 and the .45. We don’t care about ballistic coefficient nearly as much as we care about terminal performance, which has been rated as nothing short of excellent by contractors, animal control officers and park rangers. The flat-nosed .44 delivers a mighty whack. It has excellent knockdown power. It isn’t a good 300 yard weapon, but remember, we’re talking subsonic here. Any bullet that moves at a sedate 1,000 fps will have a rainbow-like trajectory much beyond 100 yards. Little velocity is lost, and the weapon is still very accurate at extreme range, but finding the proper elevation adjustment can be tricky.

The powders of choice have been the time-honored Unique and a powder made in Finland by Vihta Vuori Oy called N 310. The Germans developed a very fast powder for their suppressed rifles during World War II, and this may be a very close duplicate of that powder. It should be mentioned that the Finns turned some of their subsonic rifle bullets backwards for better accuracy and improved terminal performance. They also developed a system using a few drops of solvent to dissolve the upper layer of their fast powder. After this solvent evaporated, the powder was thus sealed into the rear of large-volume cartridge cases. A bullet was then seated and heavily crimped in place. This helped to achieve better combustion and improved uniformity. Prior to this a filler, such as nitrated cotton fiber or kapok, had been used on large-volume shells. The solvent was a stroke of genius because it rapidly evaporated, did the job very effectively, and left nothing extra inside their suppressors.

Interestingly, we were using N 310 powder in a Thompson Contender, which developed the disconcerting habit of opening up by itself each time it was fired. Curiously, no damage occurred, and the bullets hit the target as though nothing was amiss. The standard pistol primers did not indicate any sign of high pressure. The velocity was 1,000 fps, out of a 21 inch, unported barrel. After this happened several times in a row we switched to Unique (a slower powder) and the problem went away.

H & R and NEF also make a single-shot, break-open carbine, chambered in either .44 Magnum or .45-70. These rifles are more robust than the Thompson Contender, and remain closed when fired, regardless of the load. At a mere $150, these are the cheapest games in town. Don’t think that inexpensive means unreliable or inaccurate. These are very reliable, accurate weapons. More so than the expensive and finicky Contender.

Dating back to 1873, the .45 Colt is a close cousin to the .44. This rimmed cartridge offers 10% greater frontal area. The caliber and the cartridge were the end product of a lot of cut-and-try research. The .45 Colt may be old, but it certainly isn’t obsolete. Many who hunt deer with a revolver feel that the .45 Colt is as close to perfection as one can get. We really like the cartridge, but are having a hard time finding rifles we like with the .45 Colt chambering. Winchester and Marlin both make lever-action rifles, but the feed tube is tied to the barrel and gets in the way of the suppressor. We’ve been buying .45 Colt barrels with a 1 in 14 inch twist from Bullberry in Utah for the single shot, Thompson Contender. We look forward to the day when H & R, RUGER and NEF make their rifles in .45 Colt.

The .45-70 cartridge seems like an obvious step beyond the .45 Colt. We’ve suppressed this round but are not as happy with it as we are with the .45 Colt. The Colt has a slug with a .451 inch diameter and is available with bullet weights up to 425 grains. As a cartridge, the Colt is compact and easily loaded. Its case walls are heavy and durable. The current popularity of cowboy action shooting make the .45 Colt cartridges readily available, and inexpensive. The .45-70 has a bit more capacity than we really like, and its case walls are quite thin near the mouth. The mouth is easily bent or deformed. We’ve crumpled and ruined quite a number of .45-70 cases while attempting to resize or seat bullets. The diameter of the .45-70 is .458 inches. Cast bullets are available in weights up to 645 grains, which ought to be plenty for almost any situation we can envision in North America.

Some have attempted to suppress the mighty .458 Winchester Magnum. That is truly a waste of effort, as there is absolutely no difference between the subsonic .458 and the subsonic .45-70, other than that the .45-70 is more efficient because its case capacity is smaller. We’re not saying no to either the .45-70 or the .458, it’s just that we like the .45 Colt a lot more. The .44 Magnum and the .45 Colt suppressed rifles are perfectly suited to the task of quietly harvesting or removing animals weighing between 100 and 600 pounds. Both cartridges are supremely accurate and very efficient at subsonic velocities. The ideal weight of bullet will drive completely through the animal in questions, remaining just under the skin on the far side. This is a close to perfection as it gets. The .44 Magnum and the .45 Colt have excellent knockdown power when loaded with bullets having absolutely flat front ends.

The only possible improvement over the .44 and the .45 Colt would be a move to the legal maximum diameter in the U.S., which would be .50 caliber. Interestingly, the French were among the first to do this in the 1870s, when they fitted one of the first metallic silencers to a .50 caliber Remington Rolling Block pistol. The.50 Remington (M71 Army) used blackpowder to drive a 300 grain lead bullet along at a sedate 600 fps. The powder was corrosive, and the suppressor would have to be boiled out with soap and water, and then oiled after use, or it would eventually be destroyed by corrosion. Rimmed .50 caliber cartridges can be made from 50-70 brass, an expensive and laborious tasks. A wadcutter bullet would have to be designed in .50 as this is not an item which is readily available. The .50 caliber offers almost 20% greater frontal area over the .45. A bullet weighing between 400 and 1,000 grains would seem appropriate for this caliber. Again, we have been very happy with the .44 and the .45 Colt, and find a need for anything beyond these two cartridges unlikely.

Suppliers

Brownells, Inc., 200 S. Front St., Montezuma, Iowa 50171. Phone: 515-623-5401, Fax 515-623-3896

Bullberry, 2430 W. 230 N. 67-5 Hurrican, Utah 84737. Phone: 801-635-9866

Dillon Precision Products, 8009 E. Dillon’s Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85260-9865 Phone: 800-223-4570, Fax 602-998-2786

Midway, Box 718, Columbia, MO 65205. Phone: 800-243-3220, Fax 573-446-1018

NEI Handtools, a supplier of custom bullet molds, 51583 Columbia River Highway, Scappoose, OR 97056. Phone: 503-543-6776, Fax 7865