Century International Arms has long been a contributing factor to the increasing popularity of AK rifles in the U.S. stemming from the multitude of AK products offered by Century over the years. Century’s latest AK in the form of the Centurion 39 Sporter Rifle is innovative in many ways compared to its other AK offerings. Century’s decision to maximize the use of U.S. manufactured parts in the Centurion 39’s assembly makes it a true “All American” AK. The most significant aspect of the Centurion 39’s construction is the U.S. made milled receiver that is unlike most AKs that feature stamped receivers. The Centurion 39’s receiver is created from an eleven pound block of 4140 ordnance quality steel. For years, users have sweated the details of complying with 18 USC 922R and the potential of even more legislated compliance on the horizon related to allowable imported parts: the Centurion 39 eliminates this concern. Century maximizes the “All American” theme by shipping two U.S. made Tapco 30-round magazines with the Centurion 39. The U.S. made milled receiver is not the only Centurion 39 feature that sets it apart from other AKs on the market.

The Centurion’s non-chromed lined U.S. made barrel is 16.5 inches long with a 1:10 twist rate. Overall length of the rifle is 37 inches with a weight of 8.2 pounds. The milled receiver adds about a pound of weight to the Centurion compared to a similarly configured stamped AK. Yes, the con is a heavier rifle, but the pro is reduced felt recoil allowing for more controllability during rapid strings of fire. Further, enhancing the Centurion’s controllability is the proprietary “V” shaped Chevron compensator Century has designed and installed on the Centurion 39 that directs gases upward mitigating muzzle climb during firing. The compensator is attached via typical AK 14x1mm LH thread pattern.

Century incorporates a different open sight configuration with the Centurion 39 compared to standard AK style sights. The rear sight is adjustable for windage unlike most AKs that have the user drift the front post for sight alignment. This allows for the Centurion’s front sight post to be of a high visibility design compared to an AK47s normal front sight post. The rear sight is also adjustable for range/elevation via sliding the rear sight along the rear sight plate.

The Centurion’s buttstock is one inch longer than normally associated with the AK in recognition of the larger stature of shooters found in the U.S. The stock can be switched out if it is not what a shooter desires since stock choice is an individual choice to begin with. The Centurion 39 follows the 1960 Polish pattern in terms stock furniture and angle the rear stock sits in relation to the receiver. Attention needs to be paid in stock choice related to the milled receiver. A milled receiver stock attaches differently than a stamped stock due to the milled receiver having upper and lower tangs that are integral to the rear of the receiver compared to a stamped receiver’s connection points.

The cross influence of the ever popular AR-15 is evident in the Centurion’s configuration utilizing handguards featuring multiple rails for the mounting of accessories such as optics, lights, lasers, and vertical forward grip. The railed forends are manufactured by Century specifically for the Centurion 39. Some may find accessorizing the AK an act of heresy, but many more will take advantage of the capability offered by the railed handguards. As of this writing, Century lists the Centurion 39 at only slightly over $800. This is reasonable compared to other AKs on the market, especially so considering the milled receiver and multiple enhancing features found on the Centurion.

What more can be written about Mikhail Kalashnikov’s ubiquitous AK47? Models/versions proliferate around the world and now are spreading across the land of its Cold War nemesis the M16/AR-15. Despite the nefarious 1989 Import Ban and expired 1994 Assault Weapon Ban, the AK series of weapons have never been as popular in the U.S. as now. This is due to their well earned reputation for ruggedness, reliability, and low price point for rifles and ammunition compared to ARs. Lessons rediscovered in Iraq and Afghanistan about terminal ballistics further enhances 7.62×39 AK credentials. 7.62×39 loads ranging from 122-154gr FMJ, HP, and SP perform very similar to the .30-30 in terms of ballistic performance. A recently introduced Hornady offering is further proof that the AK47 has come to stay in the U.S. The Kalashnikov long-stroke gas-piston operating system is a benchmark in terms of reliability for other actions. A key component in the AK design is the looser tolerances in its moving parts, giving it more latitude to function when dirty from field conditions or hot and grimy after firing numerous rounds over extended amounts of time. This translates into reduced sensitivity to debris in the action and ultimately lower maintenance requirements to keep it functioning.

After a quick verification of 25 yard sight zero, range evaluation commenced with a function test involving firing several magazines in rapid succession at various steel man targets and vehicles that dot the range where testing was done. While not unique, this is a good way to establish a baseline for reliability. Let’s face it; if an AK-type weapon does not have faultless reliability, its major attribute is nullified. Additionally, different types of AK47 magazines were used to further root out any manufacturing quirks that might exist in the Centurion. Metal and polymer 30-round magazines of various manufacturers performed fine with no issues inserting, removing, or feeding.

An interesting sidebar involved with testing the Centurion was the use of the U.S.-made U.S. Palm AK30 magazine. The U.S. Palm magazine follows the “All American” theme of the Centurion. The AK30 magazine is molded together so that disassembly is not possible or warranted. The AK30 magazine uses a low-friction semi-floating slotted follower for reliability and ease of maintenance. A heat treated stress relieved moly-coated chromium silicon spring has a life span of over 100,000 cycles. The magazines feed lips and locking surfaces are reinforced with stainless steel and molded into the top of the magazine. Finally, aggressive texturing front and rear offer positive tactile feel while the waffle pattern on the sides aid in extraction from magazine pouches.

A more comprehensive 100 yard sight zero confirmation took place after functionality was established. The recently introduced Leupold DeltaPoint reflex sight was mounted on the upper Picatinny rail for use during some of the testing. Red dot sights increase the user’s capability in engaging multiple targets in rapid sequence compared to open sights. The Leupold DeltaPoint’s single focus plane translates into more rapid and accurate shooting due eliminating the need to coordinating front and rear sights, especially as ranges increase; not to mention a shooter’s age. The Leupold DeltaPoint sight withstood the recoil and heat generated by repeated long strings of fire. At only .6 ounces and dimensions slightly over one inch in length, width, and height, the Leupold DeltaPoint adds minimal weight and size to a weapon’s forend, while providing for increased capability. The Leupold DeltaPoint is powered via a single CR2032 3V Lithium battery. Battery life varies depending on light conditions due to the Auto-Brightness feature. There is no “On/Off” switch with the DeltaPoint due to Leupold’s patented motion sensor technology activating the unit once the cover is removed. The DeltaPoint has two reticle options consisting of 3.5MOA dot and 7.5MOA delta. The motion sensor and auto-brightness control kept the unit operating at optimum levels during range evaluations. The DeltaPoint comes with a cross slot mount intended for Picatinny rails making mounting it on the Centurion’s forend simple. Other mounts are available for a variety of handguns as well.

Attention needs to be paid when installing a forward vertical grip on an AK47 to ensure magazine changes are not compromised. The vertical forward grip aided in weapon manipulation and did not cause any issues with magazine changes during range visits with the Centurion 39. There is another reason to prefer vertical forward grips. When a rifle’s handguard is smoking after taking abuse that an AK is famous for and staying operational, a vertical forward grip is perfect for keeping your hand away from the barrel. An Insight WX150 tactical light was mounted on the right side of the handguard within easy thumb reach of the vertical forward grip. Many find a vertical forward grip as an aid to off-shoulder transitions and other types of improvised shooting positions. The increased leverage offered by a vertical forward grip allows more control over the weapon across a variety uses.

Wolf Ammunition Polyformance 122gr and Military Classic124gr loads hovered in the 3-inch range at 100 yards with surplus Egyptian and Yugoslavian 7.62×39 producing slightly larger groups. One downside to most surplus ammunition is that it utilizes corrosive primers. Something the Russians and other ex-Soviet bloc states insisted on using due to concerns with cold weather ignition and long-term storage capabilities offered by corrosive primers. However, stocking up on it cannot be resisted considering that it can be still found at .25 cents a round or lower. Corrosive ammunition is not the destroyer of rifles many will lead you to believe as long as proper cleaning methods are followed to remove elements left over from the primer residue.

The Centurion 39 does not feature an integral side scope rail prohibiting mounting of a magnified optic for more precise accuracy tests. 3 inches at 100 yards with a 15.25 inch sight radius is more than acceptable for an AK or any other open sighted rifle. The forward mounted Leupold DeltaPoint reflex sight produced similar accuracy findings. Other range tests consisted of completing numerous runs on a carbine course previously set up for a law enforcement competition. Several clusters of IPSC-style man targets are engaged from various firing positions. Multiple shots were fired at each target with a magazine change mandated before leaving cover. The various stages consisted of three different styles of barricade with one including coming thru an operable door frame. Time was stopped by engaging two steel man-targets placed approximately 125 yards downrange. The Leupold DeltaPoint reflex sight assisted in engaging targets at close distances with the red chevron easy to pick up rapidly, while at the same time allowing for more than enough accuracy out to a couple hundred yards due to the red chevron superimposing an aim point on the target while not totally obscuring the target due to the chevron not being that large and focusing on the point of the chevron as the aiming point.

Team Tactic exercises involving moving to and from a designated target area using cover while either changing magazines or engaging targets while partner is reloading or moving is another good weapon evaluation drill. One gets a good sense of the way a weapon handles along with reliability due to the sum of ammunition expended in short time frames characteristic of these Team Tactic drills. Further training exercises such as magazine changes, shooting from the non-dominant shoulder and unconventional positions helped to put the Centurion 39 through its paces. Strings of fire ranged from 15 rounds to 130 rounds with target distances measured in feet out to a couple of hundred yards. The Centurion 39 handled as expected from an AK combined with perfect reliability. Other non-scientific tests consisted of blazing away at targets of opportunity located around the range such as car hulks, manhole covers, and steel MGM Precision Steel targets. Total rounds fired involving multiple range visits was over 1,100. The rifle was cleaned between range visits due to use of corrosive ammunition.

It is ironic in many ways that Century’s “All-American AK” Centurion 39 makes use of a milled receiver. This resembles the experience of the AKs original birth in the Soviet Union. The first mass produced Soviet-made AKs used milled receivers to take advantage of existing manufacturing capacity the Soviet Union had available in the aftermath of the devastation of World War II. The AK was intended to utilize a stamped receiver to maximize production and minimize cost, but stamping machinery technology and manufacturing methods were relatively new in the Soviet Union creating problems with quality control; thus necessitating the use of milled receivers until production issues were solved with the stamped receivers. While only a supposition, it is reasonable to assume the U.S. commercial manufacturers with their commitment to CNC machines have no incentive to convert to or make the investment in stamping machinery just to make AKs. Millions of AKs are not the order of business for the U.S. consumer, thus no benefit from the economy of scale represented by stamping manufacturing. The Century Centurion 39, typified by its U.S.-made milled receiver and other enhancing features, is a significant moment in the AK evolution.

Sites of Interest

Century International Arms
430 South Congress Ave. Suite 1
Delray Beach, FL 33445
(800) 527-1252
www.centuryarms.com

Leupold&Stevens, Inc.
14400 NW Greenbrier Pkwy.
Beaverton, OR 97006
(800)-LEUPOLD
www.leupold.com

US PALM/SGCUSA
14860 N. Northsight Blvd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(480) 222-4369
www.us-palm.com

Wolf Ammunition
PO Box 757
Placentia, CA 92871
(888) 757-9653
www.wolfammo.com

The Rock River Arms (RRA) 9mm LAR9 models are the latest twist on what Colt started in the early 1980’s with its Fourth Generation SMG Model 635 9mm. The Model 635 was patterned off of the M16/AR platform firing from a closed bolt and had the same physical characteristics as the M16/AR-15 including sights, operating controls, and trigger. The Colt 9mm utilized a blowback operation method, rather than the M16/AR-15 direct impingement gas system. The Rock River LAR9 carbine springs from this heritage operating with Colt or modified Uzi magazines. The other pattern 9mm AR encountered is the Olympic design. Pattern differences stem from design of the magazine block utilized and type of magazines that are used. While the original Colt was select-fire, the RRA LAR9 SBR carbine evaluated in this article is not. The semi-auto only SBR path is not that much of a compromise due to the weapon retaining handling characteristics of the original design.

The RRA LAR9 is commonly referred to as Colt pattern 9mm AR. However, recent RRA design modifications translate into RRA deserving to be considered a separate 9mm AR pattern in its own right. Design changes consist of foregoing the magazine block conversion of a normal AR lower; instead, an integral magazine well is molded into the LAR lower receiver. The LAR9 being equipped with 9mm specific hammer, trigger springs, recoil buffer and action springs further makes the case of the RRA design deserving to be considered a separate AR 9mm set up. The RRA modifications enhances reliability as there is no chance of a conversion block moving once installed as some are prone to do. In conjunction with this, the integral 9mm magblock provides a feed ramp for rounds being fed into the chamber.

Other differences between 9mm AR and .223 ARs are related to the 9mm AR working via blowback. The bolt carrier on the 9mm AR needs to be much heavier due to this operating method. It is one piece as compared to the .223 rotating bolt head. The bolt still recoils into the buffer tube located in the stock; thus side folding stocks are not an option with the 9mm ARs. The 9mm bolt face is integral to the bolt and the bolt itself is totally different in configuration due to making room for the ejector that protrudes up from the magblock sliding along its length. Lastly, there are no rotating/locking lugs on the 9mm bolt face.

Rock River offers a full line of 9mm AR pistols with 7 inch and 10 inch barrels along with 9mm AR rifles featuring 16 inch barrels of various configurations. The 7 inch barrel SBR tested can be had by special order. The RRA LAR9 SBR weighs just over 5 pounds with the 7 inch barrel surrounded by a free floated quad rail and measures 24-27 inches in length with 6-position adjustable CAR stock. An A1 flash hider is mounted with 1/2-36 thread pattern. The 7 inch Wilson chrome-moly barrel features 1:10 twist rate. This twist rate is better suited to take advantage of the full range of 9mm loads – 115gr through 147gr. Also, the 7 inch barrel gets the most out of the 9mm, which is typically loaded to maximize 4-5 inch barrel lengths common in pistols, while allowing for a suppressor to mount, yet still staying below a 16 inch barrel length and weight even with a suppressor mounted.

The RRA LAR9 SBR is often referred to as a pistol caliber carbine. A civilian concerned with home defense will find no compromise with the RRA LAR9 with its high capacity, great handling, and its 150yd range. Of course, target shooting and similar activities are other options.

Even though chambered in the 9mm pistol cartridge, the LAR 9 SBR is a much more potent package than any handgun due to its increased accuracy, therefore effective range, and ammunition capacity. One of the advantages derived is that it is far more accurate compared to any handgun. This is based on multiple points of contact when interfaced with the shooter. This consists of shoulder, cheek, and hands spread further apart for more stability compared to when handling a handgun. This accuracy advantage is further accentuated by the LAR9 with its crisp trigger, controllable light recoil, firing from a closed bolt, and minimal muzzle blast. The muzzle blast differential between a 9mm carbine versus an intolerable rifle muzzle signature is further accentuated in confined spaces – such as inside a home if serving in personal defense role. The old standard touting the advantage of having both a carbine and handgun chambered in the same caliber should not be casually dismissed, especially if one is not supported by an organized logistics chain. The RRA LAR9’s increased capacity, as represented in the 25- or 32-round magazines, is another advantage over a handgun chambered in a similar round. Many more 9mm rounds can be carried for the same weight and less space compared to rifle rounds. Two of the slim modified Uzi or C-Product magazines fit into the same space as one M16/AR-15 magazine. The semi-auto pistol caliber carbine, especially when SBR’d, is even lighter and better handling than its 16 inch brethren, without suffering any loss in potency as compared to when a centerfire rifle cartridge is fired from a short barrel. While not as prevalent of late, there is an economic advantage in terms of the amount of 9mm that can be purchased versus a rifle cartridge. This economics can be taken advantage of with more training; not to mention the ability to access indoor ranges with a pistol caliber carbine such as the RRA LAR9. Training regimen is further enhanced by the 9mm carbine’s ability to be used with steel plate targets without having to resort to specialty frangible rifle loads.

The RRA LAR9 benefits from proven M16/AR-15 ergonomics, operating controls, ease of accessorizing, sights, and other modifications that have evolved over the years since the original Colt 635 was introduced; not to mention broad familiarity with the M16/AR-15 platform in the shooting culture. The LAR9 SBR tested featured a free floated quad rail and A4 flat top receiver allowing for easy mounting of accessories. A conscious decision was made to minimize any weight added and any accessory was scrutinized for benefit added versus weight added. The effective range of the 9mm carbine makes magnified optics are, in this author’s opinion, pointless. Indeed, many would contend that open sights such as the Lewis Machine & Tool sights used for co-witnessing and back up are fine in their own right with nothing more required. However, a low profile Insight MRDS red dot weighing only 1 ounce was mounted. The battery operated Insight optic has variable intensity settings to optimize dot clarity based on conditions. The MRDS mounted on the RRA LAR9 SBR featured the 3.5 MOA dot with a 7 MOA version also available. The only other accessory deemed worthy of inclusion was the Crimson Trace (CTC) MVF 515 laser/light vertical foregrip. The CTC MVF is multitasking at its best combining sighting laser and high intensity tactical light with vertical forward grip in one 10.2 ounce package.

No carbine, no matter what theoretical advantage is offered, is worth anything if not reliable. As with most automatics, magazines are the crucial linchpin. Rock River supplies one modified 25-round Uzi magazine with the LAR9 and multiple types of these magazines were purchased along with C-Products 32-round magazines to augment T&E. A wide range of 9mm loads were tested consisting of multiple bullet profiles and weights. 115gr, 124gr, and 147gr JHP and FMJ loads from Black Hills, CCI, Federal, Hornady, Remington, Winchester, and Wolf were tested. The RRA LAR9 SBR was sighted in 1 inch high at 25yds which gives a 50 yard zero and 9 inches low at 100 yards trajectory. The ease of mounting various sights with the LAR9’s Picatinny rail is really appreciated, especially when compared to others on the market that are quite limited in this capability. The forward quad rail follows this theme in terms of lights/lasers/forward grip.

Many turn to the 9mm AR carbine for the reduced recoil and muzzle blast represented by the 9mm pistol cartridge. Others point to it for the ease of suppressing the 9mm. By simply removing the provided A1 Flash hider and screwing on a Yankee Hill Machine (YHM) Phantom Flash Hider, a Wraith 9mm QD Suppressor is easily mounted. The Wraith is designed for use on SMGs being constructed from aircraft grade aluminum and stainless steel. Its overall length is 7.5 inches with a diameter of 1.25 inches and weighs only 5.8 ounces while still offering a 30db noise reduction. The Wraith can be mounted on the RRA LAR9 7 inch barrel and yet still be shorter than a 16 inch barrel rifle in total length. Range time consisted of not only testing accuracy and reliability of the rifle with all types of ammunition, but also ensuring that the YHM Wraith in no way compromised the established baseline of accuracy and reliability. The RRA 1.5 inch at 50 yards guarantee was maintained with the YHM suppressor installed with no point of impact shift. Another pleasant surprise was the consistent point of aim enjoyed no matter weight or type of 9mm load used. The 147gr 9mm is subsonic and the obvious choice for use with a suppressor. However, the Wraith proved effective at taming the muzzle blast of even the 115gr and 124gr +P loads. It comes down to just not that much powder/blast in a 9mm to contain. All loads could be comfortably fired without the use of ear protection with the suppressor installed.

The first range session consisted of nearly 500 rounds to gain confidence in the RRA LAR9’s reliability. The RRA LAR9 SBR’s first test was a function test consisting of dumping multiple magazines in quick succession. 9mm ARs have a reputation for being finicky at best and cranky at worst. The RRA LAR9 exhibited none of this even when the suppressor was used. Bullet profiles ranged from Golden Saber, TAP, SXT, Ranger, JHP, TMJ, and FMJ with weights from 115gr, 124gr, 147gr and loads a mixture of standard, +P, and subsonic. The only loads that exhibited any issues involved cartridge cases not made from brass, especially the aluminum variety. Surprisingly, the steel cases operated well enough to be considered for training and range time, but not for personal defense. Brass cased ammunition proved utterly reliable during range visits.

A word must be said of the advantage derived from the LAR9’s similar feel to the ubiquitous AR-15. A conversation with Rock River’s LE/Government Sales Manager Steve Mayer put it best, “The accuracy, even at what would be considered “rifle” distances, is very good (with the LAR9). Too many SMGs are based on their being large, awkward pistol-type weapons rather than compact rifles. The LAR-9s, being based on the M16/AR-15-type platform, shoulder well and are an easy transition for a shooter used to the rifle-caliber versions to shoulder and fire on target. That’s part of the voodoo – if you think you can hit a target, the more likely you are to take the time to aim a little bit longer/better, to exercise better trigger discipline and control, and in general, score more hits. If you’re used to shooting an AR-type rifle in 5.56 at 200-300 yards, and you throw a 9mm version up to your shoulder to engage targets at 100 yards, your muscle memory takes over and you naturally engage the target just as you would with the rifle caliber. Your confidence just takes over.”

Once the Rock River LAR9 SBR proved reliable, it was then put through its paces on different rifle courses that were set up for a pending law enforcement competition that was to be held at the range. Magazine changes, shooting from behind cover, transitions between shoulders and firing from unconventional positions put the LAR9 through its paces. The time and paperwork necessary to SBR the carbine is well worth it considering how the short barrel length accentuates all of the good characteristics related to handling. Strings of fire ranged from 15 rounds to 80 rounds with multiple targets placed at distances measured in feet out to over 100 yards. The recoil impulse of the 9mm AR is often commented on as being stouter than expected. This may be derived from the blowback operation method sending the heavy bolt vigorously to the rear. Various sources offer opinions that this reputation comes from the full-automatic variants with cyclic rates approaching 900 rpm causing shooters to lose control when firing on full-automatic. The RRA LAR9 SBR was pleasant to shoot and capable of fast follow up shots with minimal sight displacement. Total rounds fired involving several range visits was over 1,400. The rifle was cleaned between range visits.

A pistol caliber carbine can never be compared across the board to a weapon firing a rifle round due to effective range and lethality of the pistol round versus a 5.56, 5.45×39, 7.62×39, 7.62×51, etc. However, a 9mm carbine typified by the Rock River LAR9 is not a weapon to be ignored for personal defense, especially with the added twist of a 7 inch barrel and a suppressor installed. Beyond a doubt, the Rock River LAR9 SBR is much more potent than any handgun and should not be underestimated for what it offers in terms of effectiveness in the civilian realm whether it is for protection, training, or sport. Sites of Interest

Rock River Arms
1042 Cleveland Rd
Colona, IL 61241
(866) 980-7625
www.rockriverarms.com

Crimson Trace Corp.
9780 SW Freeman Dr
Wilsonville, OR 97070
(800) 442-2406
www.crimsontrace.com

Insight Technology
9 Akira Way
Londonderry, NH 03053
(866) 509-2040
www.InsightTechnology.com

Lewis Machine & Tool, Inc
1305 11th W
Milan, IL 61264
(309) 732-9527
www.lewismachine.net

Yankee Hill Machine Company, Inc
20 Ladd Ave, Suite 1
Florence, MA 01062
(413) 586-1326
www.yankeehillmachine.com

The Somme Offensive took place between July 1 and November 18, 1916 in the Somme department of France on both banks of the river of the same name. The offensive occurred due to the severe losses the French were taking in the Verdun sector just east of Paris along the river Meuse since February 1916. To relieve the French, the Allied High Command decided to attack the Germans to the north of Verdun thus requiring the Germans to move some of their men away from the Verdun battlefield and move them to the north relieving the pressure on the French in Verdun. Accordingly, the first objective was to relieve the French at Verdun and the second objective was to inflict as heavy as losses possible upon the German Armies by the combined Anglo-French forces to create a rupture in the German line that could then be exploited with a decisive blow. On all counts, and in terms of human loss, it was a disaster.

The battle at the Somme started with a weeklong artillery bombardment of the German lines with over 1,738,000 shells fired at the Germans with the idea the artillery would destroy the German trenches and barbed wire placed in front of the trenches. The Germans had deep dugouts for their men and all they had to do when the bombardment started was to move these men into the relative safety of the deep dugouts. When the bombardment stopped, the Germans would then know that this would have been the signal for an infantry advance. They then moved out of their dugouts and manned their machine guns to face the British and French.

The Anglo-French soldiers advanced across a 25 mile front. George Coppard, a machine gunner at the Battle of the Somme wrote, “The next morning we gunners surveyed the dreadful scene in front of us… it became clear that the Germans always had a commanding view of No Man’s Land. (The British) attack had been brutally repulsed. Hundreds of dead were strung out like wreckage washed up to a high water-mark. Quite as many died on the enemy wire as on the ground, like fish caught in a net. They hung there in grotesque postures. Some looked as if they were praying; they died on their knees and the wire had prevented their fall. Machine gun fire had done its terrible work.”

The opening day of the battle saw the British Army suffer the worst one-day combat losses in its history, with nearly 60,000 casualties. The original relatively small British Army had been decimated in the early years of the war and in 1916 the British Army consisted of a volunteer force, “Kitchener’s Army,” and going over the top at the Somme was the first taste of battle for many of the men. As this was now a volunteer force, many battalions were comprised of men from specific local areas and these losses had a profound social impact giving the battle a lasting cultural legacy in Britain. It also had a huge social impact for the Dominion of Newfoundland, as a large percentage of the men that had volunteered to serve were lost that first day.

At the end of the battle, British and French forces had penetrated a total of six miles into German occupied territory. The appalling casualties of the British Army were 420,000 (including the nearly 60,000 on the first day alone), the French lost 200,000 men and the Germans nearly 500,000 for a total of 1.2 million men. Many found it difficult to justify the nearly 88,000 Allied men lost for every one mile gained in the advance. Truly a “Lost Generation.”

Lapugnoy Military Cemetery

Lapugnoy is a village approximately 3 miles west of Bethune and the Lapugnoy Military Cemetery is one of many such cemeteries that are common in the nearby countryside. The first burials at the Lapugnoy Military Cemetery were made in September 1915, but was most heavily used during the Battle of Arras, which began in April 1917. The dead were brought to the cemetery from casualty clearing stations, chiefly the 18th and the 23rd at Lapugnoy and Lozinghem, but between May and August 1918 the cemetery was used by fighting units. The Lapugnoy Military Cemetery contains 1,324 Commonwealth burials of the First World War with 3 being unidentified, and 11 from the Second World War, all dating from May 1940. There are 965 from the United Kingdom, 349 from Canada, 7 from Australia, 2 from South Africa and 2 from Germany.

Pozieres

The village of Pozieres is located approximately 6.5 miles northwest of Albert. The Australian 1st Division attacked Pozieres early on July 23, 1916 and captured the town after fierce fighting. The Germans launched several counter attacks but were repulsed. The Germans then launched one of the heaviest artillery barrages of the war and shelled the Australians unrelentingly At the height of the bombardment, shells rained down at the rate of 20 per minute (one every 3 seconds). After three days, the 1st Division had lost 5,285 men. The Division was withdrawn and replaced by the 2nd Division. The Germans continued their attack and after 10 days, the 2nd Division was withdrawn after losing 6,848 officers and men and replaced by the 4th Division. When the 4th Division was exhausted, they were replaced by the 1st Division, who were then replaced again by the 2nd Division who were then replaced again by the 4th Division until all three Divisions were almost destroyed. More than 50% of the Australians who fought at Pozieres were killed, wounded or captured during the relentless fighting.

At the center of the Pozieres fighting was the Pozieres windmill and was the highest point of the entire Somme battlefield. The Germans had converted the ruins of the windmill into a machine gun emplacement. Two major German trench lines crossed the field in front of the windmill site and thousands of Australians were killed and wounded in the surrounding fields while attempting to capture the formidable defensive positions. After the war the windmill site was acquired by the Australian government and now stands as a memorial to the 23,000 Australian who were killed or wounded in the Pozieres battle.

Australian casualties over the whole war were 215,000 men, which as a percentage of troops in the field, was the highest of any Allied force.

Pozieres is also the site of the Tank Monument. Ten days after the Australians left the Somme, the tank made its debut. The Battle of the Somme saw the first use of the new, mobile, armored tank. The monument to the Tank Corps has four bronze tanks at each corner.

Beaumont-Hamel

Approximately 7 miles north of Albert is the village of Beaumont-Hamel. The Newfoundland regiment as part of the British Army was assigned the section of line at Beaumont-Hamel. Although this was the Newfoundlanders first battle in France, they had seen action in Gallipoli.

The Newfoundland Memorial at Beaumont-Hamel is one of five memorials established in France and Belgium in memory of the major actions fought by the 1st Battalion of the Newfoundland Regiment and the largest is at Beaumont-Hamel. On a mound surrounded by rock and shrubs native to Newfoundland, stands a great bronze caribou, the emblem of the Newfoundland Regiment. At the base of the mound, three bronze tablets carry the names of 820 members of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, the Newfoundland Royal Naval Reserve and the Mercantile Marines who gave their lives in World War I and have no known grave. Of the 801 New-foundlanders that left their trenches on July 1, 1916, only 69 returned to answer the roll-call. The dead numbered 255 with 386 men wounded and 91 recorded as mission.

This site is one of the few in France or Belgium where a visitor can see the actual remains of trench lines of the Great War battlefield and the related terrain and a number of the trenches have been restored. However, reality is just yards away and unexploded ordnance is still in evidence with sections of the area posted as off limits and dangerous.

“When I was in Iraq with 3rd Light Armored Recon, there were a lot of issues in uncovering weapons and not knowing if they worked, if they were used recently or where they came from. We knew the basics, like what an AK47 looked like. We could take it apart but didn’t know very well how to operate it, we didn’t know the capabilities and limitations. For example, was it accurate to 200 or 300 meters? You really don’t know until you actually get down to brass tacks; zero the weapon, utilize it on a fixed course of fire using the weapon the way it’s intended.” Sergeant Alex C. Deykerhoff, student, FWIC

We talked with Sgt. “D” and other Marines at the beginning and end of an intensive three week course at MCB Quantico’s Weapons Training Battalion in practical aspects of infantry weapons commonly used by allied and insurgent forces. Through classroom instruction, hands-on drills, live fire, and teach-backs where they had to demonstrate the ability to train others, more than two dozen Marines from all over the Corps were becoming the foreign weapons “go-to-guys” for their home units.

Gunner David E. Rogers, Officer-in-Charge of Weapons Training Battalion’s Small Arms Weapons Instructor School, explained that the Corps was providing this unusual training, “to allow commanders to create cadres to further instruct their Marines on the most commonly found foreign weapons.”

In Deykerhoff’s case, he would be returning to his present assignment as a Rifle Squad Leader in 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment at Camp Pendleton, California. His unit was preparing for deployment to Afghanistan, he said, and they were counting on him to teach his fellow Marines what he had learned at FWIC.

This was echoed by other students we spoke with who would be taking their new-found skills back to Force Recon, MARSOC, and several infantry regiments.

While some might question the diversion of critical resources and training time to something not directly related to traditional combat skills with standard-issue weapons, justification is readily found in the realities of today’s operational environment.

Working Side by Side

It bears repeating that the Marine Corps is widely regarded as the most serious of America’s Armed Forces when it comes to the deadly business of war fighting. “Every Marine is a Rifleman” is an enduring truth, validated daily in training and combat operations.

But many of today’s Marines must master more than their standard-issue M16 series rifles and carbines, machine guns and mortars.

Since the Global War on Terrorism was launched in 2001, there has been a sharp increase in worldwide deployments to assist friendly nations in their struggle against insurgents and terrorists. More and more Marines are being called upon to work side by side with the military and police forces of Iraq, Afghanistan, Horn of Africa, Philippines, and elsewhere.

A big part of this mission is advising and training them in effective use of decidedly different small arms.

The need for preparing a rapidly growing number of Marines to teach foreign weapons employment was recognized early on in the Corps and was usually met by short term contracts with specialized civilian firms. This approach was found wanting in a number of ways, particularly with the urgent need to stand up the brand new Marine Corps Special Operations Command’s Foreign Military Training Units.

Not surprisingly, Quantico’s world-renowned Weapons Training Battalion got the mission to create and staff a dedicated course on foreign weapons.

WTBN’s Small Arms Weapons Instructor School put together the first Foreign Weapons Advisor Course, five days of instruction and range work that began in April 2007. Although necessarily brief and limited to a few relevant weapons that were scrounged from various sources, it included elements that would continue in follow-on versions.

History, nomenclature, characteristics, stripping, assembly, and handling formed the basics. Then, practical live fire exercises from zeroing to multiple target engagements at various ranges with the AK series. When an “urgent need” procurement yielded additional weapons and adequate quantities of serviceable ammunition, live fire with SVD rifles as well as RPD and PKM machine guns was added.

To a certain degree graduates of these early courses were considered “subject matter experts,” but not particularly well equipped as teachers.

Student evaluations and input from deployed units were used to regularly update the course content. While quality improved, the number of graduates lagged behind requirements.

Foreign Weapons Symposium

The many challenges of increasing the number of Marines properly trained in Soviet-bloc and other weapons were examined in detail in a high level Foreign Weapons Symposium hosted by Marine Corps Training and Education Command in early 2007.

Symposium proceedings cited a number of glaring deficiencies in contractor-supplied courses including “exorbitant cost” (noted at $3,000 or more per student), lack of a standardized program of instruction and failure to incorporate the latest lessons learned in-country. No less damning was the assertion that time-honored Marine Corps techniques of instruction, with standardized terminology and deeply-ingrained weapons handling rules, were not consistently followed.

Participants recommended a series of fixes to address immediate requirements and to build capabilities over a longer term.

First up was identifying a list of foreign weapons that would be part of a standardized kit for instructional use. This included AK series rifles, RPD, PKM and DShKM machine guns. RPG-7 rocket launchers and Soviet model 82mm mortars would be added in certain specialized cases. Other weapons in general use by friendly countries were named as desirable but secondary to immediate needs.

While priority was given to SAWIS and to the Advisor Training Group at Marine Corps Special Operations Command, the need for additional kits was recommended for each deploying infantry and artillery regiment, headquarters element for all divisions, and the Security Cooperation Education Training Center.

Realistic training goals were also addressed, with the recommendation that all deploying Marines have at least a basic familiarity with what they can expect to encounter in country. Three capability levels were defined, beginning with identifying and rendering safe common Soviet-type small arms. Level Two Marines would have a good level of proficiency in their use, and top level personnel would also be able to perform as certified instructors on these and other selected weapons.

Foreign Weapons Instructor Course

SAWIS implemented the symposium’s recommendations for Level Three capabilities by adding several days to what was already underway, recently renamed the Foreign Weapon Instructor Course. Now, FWIC students would have to go beyond demonstrating weapons proficiency to show they can effectively train both their fellow Marines and, with the aid of interpreters, foreign military forces.

The newest program of instruction had just been put into effect when we visited FWIC the first week in March, 2010. It was Day 4 of the course and students had already been hit hard with POSA (Principles of Small Arms) beginning the first day with hours of classroom work, reinforced by plenty of after-class study.

28 well seasoned Marine NCOs and at least one officer – all with one or more deployments – were pretty much up to speed by the time we arrived on how weapons of all types worked. We found them comfortably seated in a classroom, paying close attention as Sergeant Andrew Gladue explained the ins and outs of the Soviet designed PKM, a medium machine gun roughly equivalent to the U.S. M240.

Each student had his own weapon on the desktop in front of him so they could follow along with Gladue’s narrative and a series of detailed PowerPoint slides projected on a large screen. They also had thick binders full of well prepared reference materials printed in full color, detailing the gun of immediate interest and all the other major and minor weapons that were part of the course.

Gladue’s instructional style was a good balance of by-the-book facts plus interesting side notes, delivered in an almost conversational manner. He maintained attention by regularly asking questions and having his students handle their weapons as relevant points were made. Questions from the students were taken and responded to as they arose with no requirement to wait for a specified time.

This somewhat relaxed method was the norm in subsequent classes by other instructors we observed.

During a break we asked Gladue about this. “The students are experienced Marine leaders,” he said. “They’re here because they want to learn about the weapons. There’s no need for lectures.”

We learned that Gladue and other staff instructors were intentionally setting the example. When it came time for the students to “teach back” – to perform in the role of instructors – they were well advised to present the required information in the manner they had learned it themselves.

Hands-on

No matter how interesting the presentation, blocks of instruction in the classroom need to be reinforced by hands-on practical application time. In the particular instance we observed after Gladue had led the class through loading and unloading procedures, students grabbed their PKMs and filed outside.

They gathered into groups of four or five around their assigned instructor – always the same leader, always the same group. This is a well proven way, we’re told, to climb the learning curve by creating a relaxed setting where the instructor can recognize and work to overcome any weaknesses in his students.

With an icy wind inbound from WTBN’s nearby ranges, students got behind their guns with bellies down in the sparse winter grass and reddish clay, practicing what they had just learned inside. Then, under the watchful eye of their instructors, each student in turn went through the strictly specified sequence of steps to prepare the PKM for firing and render it safe and clear afterward.

Miss something? Do it again. And again as needed until it becomes second nature. Mastery of all the steps was a mandatory prerequisite before being granted the privilege of live fire.

Range Time

The crawl, walk, run method of instruction is readily observed in the day’s training schedule where a morning packed with classroom and dry runs on the SVD sniper rifle and PKM machine gun was followed by the rewarding opportunity to put the guns to work.

WTBN boasts a superb selection of ranges right on site that don’t usually need to be shared with other units. We joined the class in progress on nearby Range 305 as they gathered around a loading machine they called the “meat grinder.” Marines accustomed to getting their machine gun ammo ready to go right out of the can were in for another lesson.

Foreign-marked wooden crates with tin “spam cans” of ammo were unsealed, paper packages were torn open and loose cartridges dumped into the machine’s hopper. Students took turns on the crank handle to mechanically insert formidable 7.62x54R cartridges into the PKM’s 50 round non-disintegrating metallic link belts.

Guns were brought up to the firing line mounted on tripods of the original Soviet design – surprisingly light but correspondingly flimsy – with a rather crude traversing and elevation mechanism. Following the usual safety briefing, delivered with practiced ease by Sergeant Joshua Orihood, one of the instructors; it was time to start burning powder.

Zeroing and the first course of fire were conducted at close range, just 12.7 meters, on the same scaled down targets familiar to Marine M240 and SAW gunners. This close proximity makes it easy to observe the strike of each burst and dial in necessary corrections to the sights without wasting a lot of time going back and forth to distant targets.

After several short bursts all the guns were properly zeroed and the rest of the course of fire was run on the little printed silhouette boxes with varying burst lengths and times. Qualification depended in getting the required number of hits in the right boxes and don’t fool yourself into thinking that’s easy.

Snayperskaya

With PKM qualification checked off, it was time to move right into a course of fire with the fearsome Dragunov rifle, a Soviet-designed semi-auto, similar in form and function to the vintage U.S. M14 that has proudly returned to service in GWOT as the Marine Corps’ Enhanced Marksman Rifle. The EMR, by the way, is a product of the gunsmithing wizards at WTBN’s Precision Weapons Section.

While most any sniper rifle of AK pattern is all too often called an SVD (Snayperskaya Vintovka Dragunova), only the real Dragunov action rifles made in Russia or China qualify as “Dragunovs”. FWIC students damn sure know the difference and there were several variants noted as a dozen or so shooters dropped to prone on the firing line to zero rifles mounting various 4-power day scopes of PSO-1 type.

Zeroing was done at the 25 meter line using FWIC’s special multi-rifle targets that provide a small diamond-shaped aiming point surrounded by a numbered grid. Each time three rounds are fired, the center of the shot group is located and educated adjustments are made to the sights.

Done properly, subsequent three shot groups move to the correct location below the aim point that has been calculated for any particular weapon and its cartridge. This under-the-diamond shot pattern validates zero at close range in order to hit center of mass on man sized silhouettes at long range.

Confused? Sorry, there’s not enough space here for an explanation of line of sight and bullet drop. That’s your homework assignment.

After all shooters in both relays were satisfied with their zero, the whole group moved to the specified firing line on Range 305 for the rest of what had become a relatively warm and sunny afternoon of drilling life-sized plastic representations of hostile troops.

This can be a particularly satisfying exercise with any serviceable weapon because sensors on the target mechanism recognize vibration caused by passage of a bullet through the sturdy plastic target. Get a hit and the bad guy drops backward. Miss and everybody watching knows you’re a lousy shot.

While the SVD and its brothers aren’t tack drivers, the 4-power PSO-1 scope is no ACOG and the powerful 7.62x54mm rimmed ammo issued for this session was just ordinary ball, the task of hitting silhouettes with it at various distances out to just 300 meters is not considered daunting by the instructor staff and course standards. We’re told that everyone passed this evaluation.

Similar classroom, practice, zeroing, and field fire exercises are part of the course for the AK and RPD, counterparts to the M4 carbine and M249 SAW, as well as FN FAL and HK G3 rifles. These last two are contemporaries of the hard-hitting U.S. M14, all selective fire battle rifles that chamber the same powerful 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge used in the M240 machine gun.

Because each student will fire hundreds of rounds of three types of ammunition in the process of qualifying with all six weapons, ammo cost must be a significant factor.

With the fun stuff out of the way, the course moves into territory that many – instructors and students both say – find most challenging.

Role Reversal

Because FWIC graduates are expected to be called upon to plan, prepare and conduct live fire training at their home units, a good amount of time is spent teaching students all the unexciting but necessary administrative requirements. These include ordering ammunition, reserving ranges, preparing surface danger zone overlays, and a hundred other details contained in Marine Corps regulations and other sources.

All of this comes together in a student-conducted practical exercise in the second week with more live fire, this time on Range 15 in the boondocks of Quantico’s Camp Barrett area.

Well known to countless Marines going through TBS (The Basic School), this versatile range allows FWIC students to create innovative weapon qualification scenarios. Role-playing as instructors, the students take turns conducting classes in specified weapons and overseeing qualification firing.

Remember the four to five man groups? Instructors have been closely watching their students and, with the Range 15 ordeal behind them, the time has come to assign each one a specific weapon for a graded teach-back.

Sink or Swim

We returned to Quantico on the third and final week of the course to visit the section working with Staff Sergeant Ysac Perez. He and his Marines were off by themselves in one of WTBN’s many classrooms, individually reviewing their instructional notes and each with a different rifle sitting on the desk in front of him.

Perez explained that he and other section leaders usually assign specific weapons based on observations they’ve made during the course. This time around, Staff Sergeant Maximo Veliz, senior NCO in a scout-sniper platoon, was a natural for the straight-shooting SVD, Sergeant Justin Smallwood, a Force Recon team leader, drew the unusual G3, and Gunnery Sergeant Phillip McMellon, staff NCO in School of Infantry East, had the generic AK. Sergeant Alex Deykerhoff, the rifle squad leader whose quote leads this feature, was presented with the elegant FAL, not coincidentally his “new favorite battle rifle.”

We sat in on each of their instructional practice runs as Perez made notes on a standardized evaluation form. A constructive verbal critique followed, reinforcing good points and pointing out what needs improvement.

The process was to be repeated as many times as necessary to get it right before the evaluation-for-record that would take place the next day. Demonstrating the ability to instruct Marines and others in foreign weapons is the essence of this particular version of the course, and a final hurdle to be cleared for graduation.

As Perez explained to us later, style and delivery were important, but not so much as “hitting all the wickets,” to make sure all key points were addressed in an effective manner. Prominent among these, he said, are clearing the weapon before handling it, historical background and current users, characteristics, nomenclature, assembly and disassembly, loading, zeroing, and firing positions.

All of this and more is clearly and logically presented in each student’s reference binder. The trick, it seems, is to present the important stuff using a single page of notes and not going over the allotted time.

Informal Round Table

In the course of several hours spent with Perez, his students and others, we caught a number of things that bear mentioning. A few highlights:

• FWIC graduates don’t get formal promotion points or an ASI (Additional Skill Identifier) to their Military Occupational Specialty. All said their motivation to attend what they called this “unit enhancing course” was to teach other Marines about the foreign weapons they are likely to encounter on deployment.
• Even self-professed “gun nuts” find the intensive block of instruction in Principles of Small Arms to be challenging and rewarding. The range of very different operating systems is an eye-opener and it develops a deeper appreciation for weapons in general and current-issue U.S. small arms in particular.
• One student, a Recon Marine, said the weapons recognition part was highly relevant to men in his trade with its strong focus on surveillance and intelligence-gathering. “If you find an AKSU-74 (Russian special operations assault carbine), then you know you’re dealing with a top dog kind of unit.”
• These experienced Marine NCOs were uniform in their praise of the content of the course and professionalism of the instructional staff.
• Mindful of the requirement to provide a concluding written evaluation, there was brisk discussion of ways to make the course better. While there was general agreement that more time ought to be devoted to weapons handling and live fire, the “train-the-trainer” part got mixed reviews.
• Perez confirmed that this was the first and last three week version of FWIC. Word has come down through the chain-of command that much of the “how to teach” time was out and the course would revert to two weeks. In a follow-up conversation with Staff Sergeant James Snyder, Staff NCOIC of SAWIS, he explained that training in instructional techniques was well covered elsewhere; in mandatory schools for career progression and in the online course that’s a prerequisite for attending FWIC. Also, he said, there is an urgent need for more Marines trained in foreign weapons and the current output of 160 per year is ramping up to 300.
• Cutting back on student as teacher part has its own benefits. 80 hours of concentrated training are packed into two weeks, allowing more time for hands-on and several new weapons are being added. “The ‘other weapons’ part of the course,” Gladue told us, “will grow to include the HK MP7 and FN P90 personal defense weapons, Walther P38 and Mauser C96 pistols, Israeli Negev SAW, and Russian RPK auto rifle.”

Oh, we shouldn’t fail to mention there’ll be some up close and personal time with the iconic Thompson submachine gun.

Parting Shot

“You might think you’re going over there to chase the bad guys but when you get there the mission could change and you’re training the Afghan National Army or Iraqi soldiers. If you don’t have the knowledge to teach these weapon systems you’re already behind.” Gunnery Sergeant Phillip McMellon, student, FWIC

Get in the Pipeline

Slots are limited and a lot of Marines are already lined up to get in. FWIC is open to Marine NCOs in the rank of Corporal to Master Gunnery Sergeant, to officers up to Major, and Chief Warrant Officers. Priority is given to Marines in 03xx and 02xx Military Occupational Specialties but others may attend with special approval. Prerequisites include documented weapons qualification levels and completion of courses in weapons safety and instructor skills. Details are available on WTBN’s website at www.tecom.usmc.mil/wtbn/schools/fwic/prerequisites.asp

By Jeff W. Zimba

There are very few firearms in the world as recognizable as those in the AK47 family. There are also very few names in the firearms industry as well-known as “Mikhail Timofeyevich Kalashnikov.” When both are brought together for a brand new rifle as in the case of the German Sport Guns (GSG) GSG-AK47, it has to be big.

The .22 LR “Kalashnikov” manufactured by GSG represents much more than a small caliber “knock-off” of a famous rifle. The GSG-AK47 is not only a well-made rifle, common of the German engineering we have come to appreciate, but it actually bears the name “Kalashnikov.” GSG is currently the only company in the world licensed by General Kalashnikov to manufacture real, functioning firearms, and they have not taken this opportunity lightly.

For several years, .22 LR rimfire versions of military firearms have been available. The quality, aesthetics and function have been all over the spectrum, with many falling into the sub-par category. Anyone who reads the pages of Small Arms Review has seen an increase in these rifles – many of excellent quality and actually commissioned by the same companies who manufacture the originals.

In the September, 2009 issue of SAR (Vol. 12 No. 12) we examined the GSG-5 series, a family of .22 LR firearms modeled after the H&K MP5 family and we were pleased to accept the opportunity to test and evaluate the newest member of the GSG family, the GSG-AK47 Kalashnikov.

The GSG-AK47

From the moment the GSG-AK47 is removed from the factory packaging, the quality is immediately obvious. The first feature of our test rifle to excel far beyond our expectations was the furniture. The stocks are all solid wood, comfortable and functional, and not an inexpensive plastic part with its only purpose to resemble a familiar rifle.

Upon examining the rifle it was apparent that something else was special with the name “KALASHNIKOV” boldly displayed on the left side of receiver just below the front trunnion location. Furthermore, on the left side of the receiver, is a standard AK47 side rail mount for use with many popular optics.

The magazine is a full size magazine and looks correct in the firearm. Aside from the visual round indicator window in the center of the magazine where remaining ammo is visible, and the small rib to the rear of the magazine, it looks very much like a normal AK47 magazine. It holds 24 rounds and locks up in the typical fashion. The front is inserted and it is rocked to the rear. To remove the magazine it employs a paddle magazine release positioned in front of the trigger guard like an original.

The sights are very similar to the full size companion and the rear ladder-style blade is adjustable for elevation in the typical manor. The front sight is a standard style protected post and is also adjustable for elevation to fine-tune your specific ammunition to a known distance.

The safety lever is located on the right side like the original but with one additional feature. When the bolt is pulled to the rear position the safety lever can be lifted to the top position and double as a bolt lock. When the bolt is not pulled all the way to the rear the lever works like a standard safety with the SAFE position being up and the FIRE position being down. The GSG-AK47 also features a last shot bolt hold-open for a visual inspection upon firing the last round and to assist in quick reloading.

The muzzle end of the barrel has a device that resembles a standard thread protector (referred to as a nozzle), but the barrel itself is not threaded. The threads are inside the front sight post and the nozzle slides over the barrel and is threaded into the front sight post. It was not clear at the time of publication if anyone is making a thread adapter for use with a suppressor or other muzzle devices.

Range Time

As nice as the GSG-AK47 looked and felt we reserved our true opinion for after time spent doing some live fire exercises. Several targets were set up and the magazine was loaded to its full capacity of 24 rounds. For test ammo we chose Wolf .22 LR and Federal Gold .22 LR. We fired numerous 24-round strings to see how well it would function and group. At a distance of 25 yards the groups were much smaller than expected with the rifle favoring the Federal Gold ammo. We fired several hundred rounds of both types of ammo and we did not experience a single malfunction of any kind from any ammo at any time.

The groups were not expected to be “match quality” as the method of fire was far from slow firing with gentle controlled trigger squeeze and controlled breathing. The rear blade AK47-style sights are not typically conducive to bench-rest accuracy, especially with a few tired sets of eyes, but the groups highly exceeded our expectations. After firing several magazines we were simply amazed at the level of accuracy possible with this rifle. Most of the targets looked similar to the “shoot out the star” carnival targets after a good effort, with a big, tattered single hole. Knowing the capabilities of this rifle we will be obtaining an optical sight to see what it is actually capable of.

Of course the recoil was almost non-existent and the sound level was negligible after firing several large caliber rifles the same day.

Although the look and feel of the GSG-AK47 is extremely similar to its famous namesake, the internals have almost nothing in common with it. Under the familiar top cover is a completely different animal: it operates with a simple short action blowback mechanism, very similar to that used in the GSG-5 weapon system. Complete stripping for periodic maintenance requires the removal of several screws. Cleaning and maintenance is quite simple and easy but it will not be familiar to the seasoned AK47 enthusiast.

Conclusions

We enjoyed the GSG-AK47 for many reasons. The low cost of shooting .22 ammo is attractive, but not at the expense of an unfamiliar rifle with awkward controls and an uncertain reliability aspect. Fortunately, for those who like military rifles, all these issues were not a factor with the GSG-AK47. The look, feel and controls are almost identical to the most heavily proliferated rifle system in the world. From the first time it is handled and shouldered, the heavy wood and comfortable stock length give the shooter the real feel of a familiar rifle. The magazine works and looks great and the accuracy potential was a surprising plus. Whether it is for low-cost training on the real system, a departure from the usual noise to give your neighbors a break, to help a youngster learn to handle this style rifle without the recoil and intimidation of the muzzle blast or just plain for fun, we think the GSG-AK47 will make a nice addition to any military firearms collection. With the manufacturers suggested retail price of $499.95 it should not break the bank and the low ammo expense will cost average the purchase price out in no time. All that combined with a high level of performance and the fact that General Kalashnikov believes it is a rifle worthy of bearing his name speaks volumes too.

Sources

GSG-AK47 Rifle
American Tactical Imports
100 Airpark Drive
Rochester, NY 14624
Ph: (800) 290-0065
Fax: (585) 328-4168
www.americantactical.us

By Jason Wong

Until recently, the 40mm grenade launcher was almost exclusively dominated by the M203. With the recent adoption of the Heckler and Koch M320 by the U.S. Army, a look back at Heckler and Koch’s legacy 40mm systems is in order. First designed in the late 1950’s, the 40mm grenade system was a stop gap system to bridge the distance between grenades thrown by hand, and the employment of light mortars. Hand grenades are limited by the distance the infantryman can throw the grenade, typically about 25 meters. A mortar is capable of dropping rounds as close as 60 meters from the firing position, but the weight of the system and ammunition present logistical and load bearing issues for light infantry. Clearly, a smaller and lighter weapon system was needed to bridge the gap. Enter the 40mm grenade.

The HK69: The Original Heckler and Koch Grenade Launcher

The HK69 grenade launcher is a stand alone, single-shot, shoulder-fired, breech-loaded weapon. The receiver incorporates the barrel assembly, firing system, and trigger mechanism. Configured with a rifled barrel, the barrel is hinged at the front of the receiver and rotates upward and away from the receiver, much like an over/under shotgun. Like a shotgun, the oversized latch to the rear of the receiver (and what appears to be the weapon’s hammer) is actually the barrel release mechanism. By pushing the barrel release latch to the rear, the barrel is unlocked from the receiver, and springs open under spring tension. The system lacks an ejector because one is not needed; the additional engineering and weight was deemed unnecessary for a single shot weapon. Instead, the barrel breech is cut to allow the user to pull the spent cartridge from the breech of the barrel. This design element has continued throughout the HK 40mm system design, and can still be seen within the current M320 design.

Weighing in at 5.75 pounds, the HK69 distinguished itself from the XM148 and the M203 in that it utilized a break action, similar to a shotgun. This design proved fruitful, and has lived on as one of the most useful designs in 40mm systems. The M203 was limited to a round approximately 5.25 inches in length – if the round was any longer in length, the M203 receiver interferes with the loading of the 40mm round in the M203 barrel. Unlike the M203, the HK69 has no issue accepting oversized 40mm rounds. Because the barrel swings upwards and away from the receiver, the barrel is not obstructed by the receiver. This design element has also continued to the present, and can be seen with slight variation within the Heckler and Koch M320 weapon platform.

The safety mechanism on the HK69 is a lever system, on the left side of the receiver, with large markings to show whether the weapon is rendered safe, or ready to fire. The safety blocks the trigger bar from releasing the hammer; in this manner, the weapon may be safely carried loaded, hammer cocked, with the safety on. Not one to trust mechanical safeties, potential users may consider carrying the weapon in Condition 2 (hammer down on a loaded chamber) as a better alternative.

The hammer on the HK69 is external to the receiver and is exposed for manual manipulation. When needed, the hammer can be quickly cocked, rendering the weapon ready to fire. In the event of a misfire, the weapon can be quickly re-cocked by engaging the hammer. The trigger on the HK69 is surprisingly light. Given the design as a single action trigger, perhaps the responsive trigger should not be surprising. When shooting the family of Heckler and Koch 40mm weapons, the HK69 had the best trigger system, far exceeding the double action only triggers found on later Heckler and Koch systems.

The HK69 utilizes a polymer pistol grip, and a lightweight tubular telescoping metal stock. Sling swivels are available for use with a sling. The system is strictly a stand-alone unit, and cannot be mounted to a host weapon in the same manner as the HK79 weapon system, or other future HK 40mm systems.

Operation of the HK69

Loading and unloading the HK69 is intuitive and easy. To open the barrel, grasp and rotate the oversized barrel release mechanism to the rear. The barrel opens under spring tension. Loading the weapon is as easy as dropping the desired 40mm round into the breech of the barrel. Unloading the weapon is equally easy by utilizing the semi-circle relief cuts within the breech to grasp the cartridge base.

The weapon is cocked by retracting the hammer at the rear of the weapon. The manual safety on the left side of the receiver should be pushed to the “fire” position. The weapon is now ready to fire.

Two sight systems are employed on the HK69. The first system utilizes a small, fold down blade sight capable to engaging targets at 50 to 100 meters. For longer range accuracy, a folding ladder sight allows the user to engage targets out to 350 meters. With a little practice and experience, it is possible to engage targets beyond the listed maximum range.

Final analysis

Potential downsides of the HK69 included the all metal interface – the weapon seemed significantly heavier than any other 40mm grenade system, save for perhaps the HK79, when mounted to a G3 rifle. The steel receiver has a tendency to get extraordinarily hot when exposed to desert firing conditions. Presumably, the steel receiver would be equally cold if exposed to sub-freezing temperatures. The same issues were not observed when test firing other systems. Other downsides included the single-action only trigger. Although the single action trigger was extraordinarily crisp when compared to other 40mm systems, the weapon has no provision to fire as a double action. In the event the shooter forgets to cock the weapon, the weapon will not fire – the trigger simply releases the hammer – the trigger will not cock the hammer if the hammer is down. Adopted by the German army in 1974, the HK69 was popular within the European community, but saw limited commercial success in the United States. As a first generation 40mm weapon system, the HK69 is highly effective, easy to use, with the fire control mechanisms intuitive to most shooters. The HK69 was the primary model, and is generally offered and referred to as the HK69A1 in its modernized version. The HK MZP-1 is a police version of the HK69 with 50-100-150 meter sights.

The Heckler and Koch HK79 – Competitor to the American M203

Partially based upon the HK69 design, the HK79, together with the XM148 and M203, brought significant firepower to the individual infantryman. No longer limited to the engagement distance of hand thrown grenades, the individual infantryman could use his rifle as a mobile platform for indirect fire. Similar to rifle grenades of World War II, the 40x46mm grenade system offered a larger payload and more advanced safety systems. More importantly, rifle grenades of World War II relied upon blanked ammunition to launch grenades down range. With the advent of the 40x46mm grenade systems, the individual infantry soldier could engage the enemy with a 40mm grenade with follow on fire from his rifle. There was no longer a need for the soldier to carry ball and grenade launching rifle ammunition.

The HK79 was the German response to the M203. Designed to be attached to German battle rifles, the HK79 was most commonly seen mounted to the G3 and HK33 model rifles, but could be adapted for mounting to most European designed rifles. Because the system was based upon the design attributes of the HK69, there are design commonalities between the two systems. Most notably, the HK79 is made primarily of steel, resulting in a heavy addition to any battle rifle.

The HK79 grenade launcher is a single-shot, shoulder-fired, breech-loaded weapon. Like that HK69, the receiver incorporates the barrel assembly, firing system, and an unusual trigger mechanism. Configured with a rifled barrel, the barrel is hinged at the front of the receiver. Unlike the HK69, the HK79 barrel rotates downward and away from the receiver. The practical effect however is the same – the barrel extends away from the any obstruction created by the receiver, allowing extra length 40mm rounds to be easily chambered. Similar to the HK69, the barrel is released via an oversized latch on the left side of the receiver. By pulling the barrel release latch to the rear, the barrel is unlocked from the receiver, and allows the barrel to open under spring tension. Like the HK69 (and all HK 40mm systems) the system lacks an ejector – the barrel breech is cut to allow the user to pull the spent cartridge from the breech of the barrel.

Operation of the safety is achieved via a cross-bolt manual safety catch, a traditional round push through switch installed on the receiver, forward of the cocking mechanism. The “safe” and “fire” positions are marked with red and white rings respectively; the weapon can be loaded and cocked with the safety set at either position. Unlike the HK69, the fire control mechanisms on the HK79 are entirely different from any previous or subsequent 40mm grenade launcher.

Replacing the external hammer of the HK69 is the Hk79’s horizontal T-grip, at the rear of the receiver. Similar in size and shape to the charging handle on an M16 rifle, the HK79 hammer is set by retracting the charging handle to the rear. The charging handle also has the effect of resetting the trigger. Like the HK69, the system can be re-cocked without unlocking the breech, in the unlikely event of a misfire. In this respect, the HK79 is similar to the failed American XM148, which also used an external handle to charge the weapon. However, the HK79 system is much more refined than the XM148 system as would be expected from German engineering.

The trigger for the HK79 system is located in an unusual, but convenient location. Given the position of the shooter when firing the HK79, the trigger has been thoughtfully located on the left side of the receiver, just below the location of the G3 cocking handle. When considering that a shooter’s natural hand position will be on the forward grip while aiming the 40mm system, the trigger’s location is convenient and practical. Similar to the HK69, the HK79 trigger was crisp, light and responsive, if not unusual. Due in part to the unusual location, and unlike most firearms which utilize the pointer or middle finger to engage the trigger, the HK79 is fired by the shooter depressing the trigger with the weak handed thumb. As a single action only system, the trigger was as crisp as the HK69, but sufficiently different to prevent a direct comparison between the two systems.

Similar to the M203 system, the HK79 uses a quadrant leaf sight mounted to the right side of the weapon system. The sight is fairly typical for 40mm systems of the period, with graduated aiming points in 50-meter increments, out to 350 meters.

Operation of the HK79 Grenade Launcher

The fire control parts on the HK79 are not as intuitive as the HK69 fire controls. To open the breech, the release mechanism is located at the bottom rear section of the weapon. By pushing the latch forward, the barrel opens downward under spring tension. Loading and unloading of the weapon is intuitive; similar to the HK69, semi-circle relief cuts within the breech are present to assist with loading and unloading of the weapon.

Cocking the weapon is achieved by pulling the T-handle at the top rear of the weapon to the rear. Upon cocking the weapon, a red ring around the base of the cocking handle will be exposed as a visual display of the weapon’s readiness.

By supporting the foregrip of the weapon with the left hand, the shooter’s thump should be near the push button trigger. The HK79 utilizes a standard ladder type weapon sight. Accurate range estimation, combined with choosing the correct cutout within the sight will result in accurate round placement. As the test rifle and launcher did not have an assembled ladder sight, it was impossible to test the accuracy of the system.

Final Analysis

Practically, there is little room to manipulate the HK79 charging handle. Detailed photos demonstrate the close proximity between the charging handle and the G3 magazine. Loading and charging the HK79 under stressful conditions would be challenging, but not impossible. More importantly, the combined weight of the HK79 and G3 combination is a hefty 13.4 pounds (6.1 kg) unloaded. Nevertheless, the system was adopted worldwide by a number of countries, including Panama, New Zealand, and Norway. From available Heckler and Koch advertising, it appears that the HK79 can be adapted to a wide variety of battle rifles, including the Steyr AUG, Colt M16, and British SA80. The Heckler and Koch AG-C: A New Generation of 40mm Systems

Faced with improved engineering in the firearms industry, new manufacturing techniques and materials, and the need to replace an aging 40mm system resulted in the development of the Heckler and Koch AG-C. Initially developed for the G36 battle rifle, the AG-C represents the third generation of Heckler and Koch 40mm grenade systems, and features the use of plastics and aluminum – a far cry from the original steel construction of the HK69 and HK79 models.

The AG-C is a single shot, break-action launcher and utilizes many of the proven features found within the HK69 system. Similar to the HK69, the now ubiquitous breech cuts originally seen on the HK69 system are utilized within the AG-C system. The barrel of the AG-C unlocks and opens to the left – rather than upward for the HK69, or downward for the HK79.

By allowing the barrel to open to the side, the AG-C system replaces the HK69 as a stand-alone weapon, yet also permits mounting the AG-C system on a rifle, thereby replacing the legacy HK79 weapon system.

As a stand-alone weapon, the AG-C is fully self contained. The system utilizes an undersized pistol grip, a retractable stock and side mounted ladder sights graduated to 350 meters. An electronic range finding sight is currently under development for future precision applications. When used in the stand-alone configuration, the system appears to be a direct (and updated) replacement to the HK69.

Replacing the HK69 alone is not the most practical benefit of the AG-C. By removing the retractable stock, the unit mounts directly to a battle rifle fitted with Mil-Std 1913 Picatinny rails. As the sights are mounted off center, the ladder sights remain on the unit, eliminating the need to re-zero the system or mount new sights on the rifle. In addition, because the barrel unlocks and opens to the left (rather than rotating vertically with prior legacy models) the system allows flexibility in selecting ammunition. Like its predecessors, the ability to swing outward (rather than opening forward, as the M203) allows the weapon to chamber a greater range of long length 40mm rounds. With the advent of newly designed medium range 40mm rounds, which are typically longer than the standard M433 High Explosive round, the ability to accept longer length rounds is beneficial to the end user.

Issued with the double action trigger, the trigger pull on the AG-C is long and heavy. Compared to the HK69, the trigger on the AG-C is horrendous. In fairness to Heckler and Koch engineers, the length and weight of the trigger pull are not likely to be noticed by users in stressful situations, and one may want to be absolutely certain the trigger is being engaged when firing high explosive rounds. Nevertheless, there is no comparison between the trigger systems of the HK69 and the AG-C as the HK69 has a single stage trigger that is crisp and responsive, and is the better trigger experience by far.

Fitted with a rotating ambidextrous safety reminiscent of Heckler and Koch battle rifles, the AG-C looks and feels at home when mounted on an HK36 battle rifle. Given the ability to mount directly to any rifle outfitted with Picatinny rails, the AG-C was a natural choice and has been adopted for use with the British L85A2, and the Canadian Diemaco C7A1 rifle. When U.S. military trials were announced seeking a replacement for the M203 system, the AG-C was an automatic contender.

Operation of the AG-C and M320

Mechanically, the two weapons systems are virtually identical in the manual of arms. The barrel release mechanism is located at the upper forward corner of the trigger guard. By pushing upward on the release button, the barrel opens to the side under spring tension. By reversing the internal components, the barrel can be made to open to either the left or right.

Loading and unloading of the weapon is intuitive; the legacy semi-circle relief cuts within the breech are present to assist with loading and unloading of the weapon. By rotating the safety to fire, the weapon is ready to fire. There is no cocking mechanism within the AG-C/M320 system, due to the use of a double action trigger.

The Heckler and Koch M320 – Replacement to the M203

In 2004, the U.S. Army announced a requirement for a new 40mm grenade system. Part of the requirements called for the new system to be a commercial off-the-shelf solution, ready for use, or ready for use with minimal modification. The requirements within the solicitation called for the new systems to be: “…more reliable, more ergonomic, more accurate and safer than the M203 Grenade Launcher. The GLM shall be capable of firing all current U.S. standard 40mm x 46mm low-velocity ammunition. It must have a breach mechanism that is able to accept improved lethality munitions with longer payloads/projectiles than current 40X46mm munitions to accommodate system growth. The GLM must initially mount on the M4 Modular Weapon System with a mounting architecture flexible enough for adaptation to the M16A2 and M16A4 rifle as well as future rifles/carbines. The mounting hardware can differ for each host weapon; however, the basic launcher and sighting system must be able to mount to all host weapon variations with only minor modifications. When removed and replaced, the module will return to its normal bore alignment regardless of the host weapon interface.”

In May 2005, an announcement was made regarding the selection of the Heckler and Koch system as the winner of an open competition to provide a new 40mm grenade launching system. Designated the XM320, the system has been modified from the prior AG-C system to fit the needs of the U.S. Army.

Of immediate note is the shorter barrel and integrated folding front grip. During a discussion with Mr. Wayne Webber, President of Heckler and Koch USA, it was noted that the Army wanted a more compact package, resulting in the shorter barrel. Of course, the shorter barrel meant that the ballistics of a 40mm round fired from the short barrel of the M320 differed from the ballistics of a 40mm round fired from the longer AG-C barrel. As a result, the sights had to be reconfigured to allow accurate fire from the system.

Similar to the AG-C, the M320 weapon system can be used as a stand-alone system, or may be mounted to a battle rifle. The M320 is a lighter system than the M203 it replaces, and does not require special mounting interfaces or hardware that the M203 requires. Of course, the M203 was introduced in 1969, and is a nearly 40-year old system; the M320 is a modernized system that uses modern materials and manufacturing techniques to address the latest developments within the small arms industry.

According to Barbara Muldowney, U.S. Army deputy product manager for Individual Weapons (PEO-Soldier), the M320 provides a number of advantages over the currently fielded M203. “Currently, with the 203, in order for the soldier to put the munitions in, they actually have to turn over the whole system,” she said. “If it’s under an M4, for example, they have to make sure that it is upside down so that the breech is exposed. Then they put the munition in and pull the pump in so that it closes. With the XM320 they can always have their sight on the target while they put the munitions in, so they don’t have to take the two extra steps of inverting the weapon system and then turning it back over.” Approximately 71,000 M203s are currently in military inventories, although only about half are currently in service.

Given the progression from the HK69 to the M320 over a period of nearly 40 years, it’s no wonder that the M320 is a thoroughly modern 40mm grenade system. Nevertheless, when viewed through a historical lens, the features and attributes of the HK69 can clearly be seen throughout the lineage of Heckler and Koch grenade systems. Absent an electronic solution, the decidedly low-tech ladder sight is still the most effective means of aiming at multiple distances. The breech cuts originally found on the HK69 are still a proven feature of the M320 that has persevered through multiple design changes and modifications.

The engineers at Heckler and Koch have repeatedly proven to be insightful to the needs of military operators by producing highly capable weapon platforms. If prior acts are an indication of future performance, expect the M320 to excel and provide many years of service to the U.S. Military.

With an ever-increasing interest in the civilian ownership of military-style firearms, several companies have emerged in order to fill this demand. There are many new designs and ideas, some big and some small, and there are a number of upgrades to existing platforms to satisfy the desires of this huge influx of new buyers, all while keeping up with those who have been ahead of the curve in this area for years.. PTR91, Inc. is one company that has embraced the extremely popular HK platform, purchased the original, licensed tooling and has been making quality, near-original versions in the United States for a number of years. They have added their own custom angle to many of the models and with the recent introduction of their own version of the HK32, a very rare, seldom-seen firearm that was originally made for export but never seen in the United States, it seems that PTR91, Inc. has gone from a participant in a large field to a ground-breaker.

In the Beginning

In 1997, Jose Luis Diaz founded JLD, a company that made clones of the popular HK rifles that were becoming extremely expensive, increasingly rare and gaining popularity in the wake of the numerous “Assault Weapon” bills affecting both importation and domestic manufacture. In 2006 he was joined by P. Everett Weed to found the new company, PTR91, Inc.

Located in Farmington, CT they developed the PTR91, their flagship rifle, using original, H&K licensed tooling from the G3 plant in Portugal. Since the vast majority of the parts used are now manufactured in the United States, their rifles are all 922r compliant.

The Lineup

PTR91, Inc has several offerings in the proven and popular .308 rifle category. The quality, fit and finish of all the latest models is reminiscent of the German originals that have been praised for so many years. Along with this superior quality are numerous custom upgrades and PRT91, Inc. exclusive designs. On most models the original style synthetic forend has been replaced with a rugged and attractive hard anodized aluminum forend, bringing the operator more durability while being slotted to allow for much greater cooling. These metal forends are all drilled and tapped in several places to allow the addition of accessory rails used with so many popular accessories on the market today.

Some PTR91 models employ the original receiver pattern allowing the use of older, factory and aftermarket mounting devices while others have a section of Picatinny rail on top (like a flat-top AR-15/M16/M4) for more traditional mounting of newer optics and devices. All models employ the well-liked “barrel-type” rear sight, field adjustable for several distances and the popular and effective hooded front sight that H&K fans have come to love for decades.

Regardless of the specific model and configuration, all other receiver dimensions are accurate to the originals allowing the use of standard HK91 type stocks, trigger packs, magazines, etc. For areas where it is permitted, the flash hiders are threaded on in their normal fashion permitting the use of such accessories as muzzle brakes, flash suppressors, muzzle devices and sound suppressors. For more restrictive states there are even compliant versions available with a welded-on muzzle compensator and shipped with a 10-round magazine.

PTR, Inc. Rifle Mechanics

The PTR .308 rifle barrels are .70-inch OD and have a 1 in 12-inch rate of twist. They are manufactured by TC Contender. The SC and MSG models are fluted from the front sight to the muzzle and the Super Sniper barrels are fluted full-length. The barrels are not chrome lined. The muzzle thread (on those threaded) is 15x1mm.

All receivers are made on original H&K machinery to the German specifications, and are all .059 steel. Accessories such as German claw scope mounts and original stocks are compatible with the PTR rifles although some accessories and parts need fitting prior to installation. Standard 20-round alloy and steel magazines typically fit and feed fine.

The sights are just like the original German sights. The rear sight is adjustable for windage and elevation and the front sight is a fixed hooded post.

The handguard on the PTR rifles is machined, hard-anodized aluminum. They are drilled and tapped in several places for the addition of rails and accessories at the 3, 6 and 9-o’clock positions. Unlike original handguards, PTR handguards are secured by screws rather than push pins.

The U.S. part count is seven, in order to comply with the 922r restrictions. They typically include the receiver, barrel, pistol grip, stock, bolt, bolt carrier and handguard. Some utilize a U.S. trigger, hammer, sear and cocking handle.

Meet the “New Guy”

Many years ago in Germany there was a little-known (but heavily desired) rifle called the HK32. It was based on the G3 (original, fully automatic HK91) and it was chambered in the Soviet 7.62x39mm cartridge. It has been rumored that this gun never left the conceptual stage though a few photos have surfaced of complete guns in the recent past. Very little is available about this gun except for the unified certainty of its rarity.

Several years ago Fleming Firearms had a custom version they marketed as the Model 52. It was a modified HK91, chambered in 7.62x39mm. They were even tested in the A3 configuration in the April 1992 issue of Machine Gun News and received high marks. It was said to be remarkably controllable compared to the original 91/G3 in 7.62x51mm (.308 NATO). This writer has no idea how many were produced and has yet to see one on the firing line, even to this day.

The people at PRT91, Inc. have decided to pull the shroud of secrecy off this caliber configuration and now offer several models of their PTR32 chambered in 7.62x39mm, which is currently available. From a short distance they look almost identical to the standard PTR91 with the most noticeable difference being the magazine release portion of the magazine well. They were designed to look like the standard .308 guns and use standard AK-47 magazines. Like the rest of the PTR91, Inc. rifles the PTR32 is available in several configurations and can be ordered as compliant for those living in the more restrictive states. We received one to test, along with a standard PTR91 and a PTR-MSG91.

Range Time

When we spent time at the range, we visited the Small Arms Research Test Facility with three different models of the PTR lineup. We tested the PTR91F, the PTR-MSG91 (both chambered in .308) and the new PTR32 chambered in 7.62x39mm. All testing was done with Wolf Performance Ammunition. The PTR32 was chosen to be the first gun to test.

The PTR32 we tested had a 16-inch heavy barrel and fixed compensator. With an overall weight of 9.8 pounds it was heavier than the majority of guns we fire regularly in the same caliber and the lower recoil we anticipated was proven to be correct.

The PTR32 does indeed use standard AK-47 magazines but due to tighter tolerances than the guns the magazines were designed for we found it to be a little finicky on magazines it would feed from reliably. The magazine it came with and a few other surplus variants we tested worked fine while several other inexpensive magazines that accompanied us to the range did not work reliably in this rifle. While all seemed to lockup fine, the problems we encountered were feeding problems, mostly associated with improper round presentation. When we finally sorted out the magazines that would run correctly, (Bulgarian mags worked best) and after an initial cleaning, lubrication application, and a brief break-in of about 100 rounds, it ran excellent and without problems of any kind.

Since we were shooting with open-sights on an overcast day with “blasting ammo” rather than running it scoped with match-grade ammo we did the majority of our shooting at 50 yards. All groups were very acceptable given the circumstances. There was absolutely no point of impact shift and all shooters had the same experience. The recoil was indeed light as expected and the rifle grouped as well as anyone behind it had the ability to control.

The next to the line was the PTR91F. This is the baseline 7.62x51mm (.308) rifle with a 16-inch barrel and threaded muzzle with original style flash hider. With 20-round factory H&K magazines it ran perfect out of the box and never encountered any problem of any kind. While the recoil was more noticeable than the PTR32, it was still extremely manageable and comfortable to shoot, even during long volleys. The ejection path of the empty casings was quite far though, all landing over 20 feet away from the shooter at a 2 o’clock angle.

The last candidate for testing was the PTR-MSG91. This rifle is the top performer in the PTR line and has several factory upgrades to enhance accuracy. Starting with the base PTR91 it has a 5.25 inch Picatinny rail on the receiver directly above the trigger. Another 3 inch section of Picatinny rail is mounted on the bottom of the forend and sports a Harris bipod. The stock barrel has been replaced with an 18 inch, fluted and threaded barrel (15x1mm), topped with a factory style flash hider. The stock is adjustable for length of pull and cheek rest height.

Although we did not question the enhanced quality of the PTR-MSG91, once we fired the first 20-round group, it was almost sinful it was not scoped during this range session to test its true ability. This rifle has some serious performance capabilities. With the same ammo, at the same distance, using the same sights, the consistent group size was a mere fraction of those fired with the standard PTR91. This was the case for every shooter, with every 20-round string. It was VERY obvious that there were many differences between the PTR-MSG91 and the basic PTR91 that went well beyond the visible characteristics.

Conclusions

Those who are fans of the original HK full-size rifle line may have a new reason to smile these days. While many of the “HK clones” we have tested in the past have been of excellent quality and extremely reliable, they have all been based on the more “exotic” flavors, such as the SBR versions and modeled after the HK51, HK53, and ever-popular MP5. The PTR91, Inc. guns we tested here are all modeled on the true and tried “work-horse” original size rifles. Although we usually lean toward the exotics in Small Arms Review, we realize that there is an important role for the full-size guns too. All test rifles exceeded our expectations in fit, finish and function. They are solid and look great. The welds are clean and the dark finish is uniform and attractive. The aluminum handguard is a great upgrade from the original rifles, allowing several mounting options not available on the German guns. Each rifle had points we thought were individually important but the overall impression was extremely favorable for all of them.

The 7.62×39 PTR32 is a fun gun to shoot and with ammo cost far less than the NATO rounds, not to mention the availability of high-capacity magazines, we are certain these will go over very well in the recreational shooting community.

The PTR91 we tested has the look and feel of the original HK91 rifle with the exception of the aluminum forend. Once you get past the different look it seems more like an upgrade than something different. The function was solid right out of the box and the recoil was not excessive.

The PTR-MSG91 was an absolute delight to shoot. Not only is it extremely comfortable to shoot with the upgraded, adjustable stock, but the accuracy, even with open sights and bulk quality ammunition was exceptional. It will not be long before a good piece of glass is added to this configuration and some match quality ammo is brought back to the range for more testing. From the first shot to the last it was extremely obvious that this rifle delivers much more than an enhanced look.

With all these configurations, and several more available to meet the specific needs or legal requirements of the owner, it is the opinion of this writer than these rifles will be viewed as a good addition to any gun collection – even the most ardent H&K collector.

PTR Rifles
Maine Military Supply
735 Wilson Street
Brewer, ME 04412
Ph: (207) 989-6783
E-mail: camo@mainemilitary.com
Website: www.mainemilitary.com

Wolf Ammo
Wolf Performance Ammunition
PO Box 757
Placentia, CA 92871
Ph: (888) 757-9653
Website: www.wolfammo.com

By John Brown

The NFATCA has been working with the National Firearms Act Branch (NFA) each year to look at what is actually happening with forms processing. Many of you have had the opportunity to even be a guest at one of a half dozen events each year where either the NFATCA or someone from the NFA Branch presents the facts about what is happening in terms of forms being processed and why it always seems to take so long for forms to be approved. Many of you have looked at the numbers and wondered, “How in the world does the NFA get so much accomplished with so few resources available.” In this article we will give you an update on the numbers and what is happening to all of the forms that we submit each year. Most importantly, we will look at the average time that it takes to get a form through the NFA Branch, from start to finish over the last five years.

Before we look at the numbers I would like to return to some of the earlier articles that we published to remind you of the things not to do when it comes to the forms process. 35% of the forms that are being submitted have some sort of problem with the submission. It is a major miracle that anything gets done with so much work having to be resubmitted or errors or omissions having to be corrected. It is a simple matter of “garbage in, garbage out.” Take into consideration that in addition to the forms processing issues, bad checks, no checks, or missing complimentary information like finger print cards or citizenship forms cause many submissions to be sent right back to the originator with a correction letter requiring a resubmission. I recently had the opportunity to chase down a couple of cases where forms looked like they were taking nearly a year to get approved only to find out that the originator had been a major source of the problem. Incorrect forms took four months. A resubmission took another two months, and the consequent return because of yet more omissions caused the same cycle to start all over again. What could have taken four months had bumped up against nearly a year simply because the originator failed to follow instructions. One particular transfer, although touted as a major problem caused by the NFA Branch, was in reality a time warp caused by the originator.

It is always a good idea to let your dealer walk you through the entire process and double check everything. Capitalizing on the experience of the dealer can’t hurt the effort and will certainly serve as that extra person checking your work. After all, that is their business and they are the ones that have the closest relationship with their assigned examiner. When there is a problem many of the examiners know your dealer well enough to make that call and discuss the issue with your dealer to help get things straightened out. We tell dealers every day that dealing with your examiner doesn’t have to feel like a call or a trip to your local DMV office. I have personally met and spoken with every single examiner at the NFA Branch. Under the leadership of Ken Houchens, Gary Schaible, Steve Albro, and most recently Ernie Lintner, these guys have developed a terrific team. If you are the dealer, make it your business to get to know your examiner. They collectively are one heck of a group doing their best to service the industry.

If you don’t believe this then take into consideration that in the last year some of the top talent at the NFA Branch processed over 7,000 forms several months in row. In simple terms these examiners were processing over 300 forms a day or nearly 38 forms an hour. With nearly a 35% error rate you simply must ponder how this all works.

If we look at the forms processing and what is really happening at the Branch, it is truly amazing that so much work can be completed when in fact we as an industry submit so many errors. This brings me to my last point: calling the NFA Branch. Examiners are flooded with phone calls every day and it seems that no matter how many times we ask for the industry not to call, people still can’t help themselves and call anyway. In a recent visit to the NFA Branch we determined that examiners literally lose nearly 25% of their processing time to phone calls. Unfortunately, many of the calls are made without proper information to make the request. Worse than anything are those in the industry that call every single week just to check the status of the same transfer. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that the Branch had to implement a customer service group in an attempt to fend off the onslaught of calls. Even with this step in place callers still ask for examiners by name and circumvent a process that was intended to help us all and to expedite requests on the status of transfers. To put it simply, stop an examiner from performing their work and your transfer is going to take longer. If you absolutely positively can’t help yourself, have your dealer do the checking for you. They have the closest relationship with the NFA Branch and should know how to find out the information that you need. Ask for the right help at the right time.

Transfer times for forms are getting better. Prior to, and following the Presidential election, transfer times jumped through the roof and it seemed to take forever to get a form approved. It was obvious from the numbers then that NFA paperwork under this particular political environment had nearly doubled from a year ago. Things are getting better as slow as it may feel. Between changes in process at the NFA Branch and the addition of new examiners, the numbers are decreasing slowly but surely. In the following chart you can examine and see the comparison for the last five years for each category of form that the industry has submitted. This is our first look at transfer times for nearly eighteen months and the numbers tell some interesting tales. In addition to what we are suggesting in this article, the NFATCA always suggests that if you need help in any of these areas, serving the industry is our mission. Call an NFATCA board member and ask for help. No issue is too large or too small to ask for the right assistance. We suggest joining the NFATCA forum and sharing issues concerns and getting the right answers to your questions the first time. We want to help you.

At this point if you are still one of those people that are saying, “What have you done for me lately?” don’t miss the boat any longer; come join the only organization in the country that is watching over every single NFA issue possible: and all of this energy, just for you, the NFA owner. Come join the NFATCA today by visiting us at www.nfatca.org.

ATN Releases Night Arrow Night Vision

The ATN Night Arrow 4-2 night vision weapon sight features the latest ATN advanced technologies in a compact, lightweight, rugged weapon scope perfect for target acquisition, sport shooting or varmint hunting. Available in a variety of Image Intensifier Tube configurations to fit any budget, the Night Arrow 4-2 features one-knob operation and mounts to a standard weaver rail. Housed in a non-reflective matte-black composite body, the 4X magnification glass lens features a “Red on Green” reticle system with a 1/4 MOA adjustment. The illuminated center red reticle provides for optimal contrast against a dark or light target. Using just one AA battery, the Night Arrow will run 30 hours providing exceptional optics. For more information contact ATN (American Technologies Network) Corp., Dept. SAR, 1341 San Mateo Ave, S. San Francisco, CA 94080. Phone: (650) 989-5100. Fax: (650) 875-0129. Their website is www.atncorp.com.

Practice like the Pros with EZE-Scorer Targets

New EZE-Scorer Targets from Birchwood Casey let shooters practice with the same style targets used by military and law enforcement professionals. The new EZE-Scorer paper targets come in the three most popular silhouette styles available with scoring areas clearly marked. Three styles are available; the TQ-19 police training and qualification target, which measures 24×42 inches, the B-27 NRA police silhouette, which measures 24×45 inches and the B-21 police silhouette at 35×45 inches. All three versions feature high contrast black print on bright white paper and are great for both indoor and outdoor ranges. EZE-Scorer targets are highly affordable at a suggested retail price of $1.20. For more information, consumers can log onto the Birchwood Casey website at www.birchwoodcasey.com, or contact them at Birchwood Casey, Dept. SAR, 7900 Fuller Road, Eden Prairie, MN 55344-2195. Phone: (952) 937-7933. Fax: (952) 937-7979.

Stoney Point Introduces Rapid Pivot Bipods and Tripods for Shotguns

With the flexibility of the inverted rubber yoke, the Rapid Pivot system from Stoney Point has been a favorite for rifle hunters around the world. Now, this same system is available for the shotgun user in both bipod and tripod versions. The new Rapid Pivot system for shotguns works great for turkey hunters and slug gun shooters. The unit easily attaches to the magazine cap of the shotgun and can be quickly detached when not in use. In addition to the versatile system for changing your aim point prior to your shot in a quick situation, the rapid pivot yoke also quickly adjusts for height. That target out a little further than you expected? Just lightly lift your shotgun and the rapid pivot will easily lift and hold your barrel at the proper height. Retail prices are: Bipod – $49.99 and Tripod-$69.99. For more information you can contact them at Stoney Point Products, Inc., Bushnell Outdoor Accessories, Dept. SAR, 9200 Cody, Overland Park, KS 66214. Phone: (913) 752-3400. Fax: (913) 752-3550. Website available at: www.stoneypoint.com.

Browning Introduces New Holographic Sight

Browning is proud to announce the introduction of their new Buck Mark Holographic Sight to the company’s expanding line of shooting accessories for 2010. The new Buck Mark Holographic sight matches up great to Browning’s Buck Mark pistols with the one-piece Buck Mark Scope Base that will be also be offered as an accessory for 2010. The new Buck Mark Holographic Sight features a rugged aluminum housing with a black matte finish. Four reticle patterns include: Circle-Dot-Cross Reticle, 3 MOA Dot Reticle, Cross-Dot Reticle and Circle-Dot Reticle. A seven-position brightness rheostat is featured to allow easy brightness adjustments. The field-of-view is 15.7m/100m for unlimited eye relief. The new Buck Mark Holographic sight is powered by one #2032 lithium battery and mounts to a standard Weaver-style base. The new Buck Mark Holographic Sight has a suggested retail price of just $49.99. The Buck Mark Scope Base (one-piece) is $34.99. For more information please contact Browning, Dept. SAR, 1 Browning Place, Morgan, UT 84050. Phone: (801) 876-2711. Fax: (801) 876-3331. Website: www.browning.com.

Offset Light and Laser Mounts from EMA Tactical

EMA Tactical is proud to introduce their newest polymer offset light and laser mounts for Picatinny Rails. Offset mounts offer many advantages over traditional models. The low profile of the offset mounts decreases the chance of the light or laser snagging on surrounding objects. Another benefit of the offset mounting system is the light/laser is now positioned closer to the operator’s thumb or finger for easier quicker more ergonomic access to the switch. These mounts utilize their proven “C” ring clamping mechanism to securely hold the light or laser in place. The finned design reduces weight, dissipates heat and provides a gripping surface. The polymer offset mounts are available in two styles using either a screw mounting system or a large quick release push button to mount to the rail. Both styles are available in two sizes for lights and lasers with either 1-inch or 3/4 inch diameters. These affordable polymer mounts complement their three models of aluminum offset mounts which are designed for the operator also requiring repeatable zero in addition to all of the advantages of an offset light/laser mount. The Aluminum Offset Light and Laser mounts are CNC manufactured from aviation grade aluminum and skeletonized to reduce weight while maintaining strength. They mount on the rail using a captive nut that can be tightened with a wrench or flat head screwdriver. The aluminum mounts feature a lug to prevent movement along the rail. The lights or lasers are clamped in place with two cap screws to insure a very solid repeatable zero. For more information they can be reached at EMA Tactical, Dept. SAR, 1208 Branagan Drive, Tullytown, PA 19007. Phone: (215) 949-9944. Fax: (215) 949-9191. They can be found on the web at www.ematactical.com.

New LaserLyte Rear Sight for Ruger SR9

LaserLyte announces its new Rear Sight Laser (RSL) model for Ruger SR9 standard and compact pistols. The RSL’s ground-breaking new laser design incorporated into the rear sight, compact size and revolutionary performance make it the most extraordinary system LaserLyte has produced. Easy-to-install and easy-to-operate, the new RSL offers a high-power laser with the benefit of not having to replace existing grips or internal stock parts. The RSL is the only laser system currently available that allows the user to holster a lasered SR9 pistol. The RSL’s activation switch is a strategically placed button at the back of the slide that is easily activated by the thumb in a normal shooting position for left- or right-handed shooters. First press of the activation switch produces the constant on mode, second press produces pulse mode, and third press deactivates the laser. A small LED on the back of the laser indicates if the laser is on and what mode it is in. The RSL is also available for Glock, Springfield Armory XD/XD(M) and Smith & Wesson M&P pistols. The unit is constructed from MIM 4650, nickel enriched high carbon steel, the same material used for most heavy-duty gun parts such as iron sights, hammers and levers. It is also black chrome, bead blasted for a non-reflective finish. When mounted onto the pistol the RSL will fit all Level I and II holsters. The RSL is powered by four 377 batteries that provide six hours of normal usage. Normal usage is defined as one minute on and one minute off. This test mimics actual usage where the unit is turned on and off and the battery is given time to automatically regenerate. For more information please contact them at LaserLyte, Dept. SAR, 101 Airpark Road, Suite C, Cottonwood, AZ 86326. Phone: (928) 649-3201. Fax: (928) 649-3970. Website: www.laserlyte.com.

By Robert M. Hausman

A review of selected commodity categories from the past year

Military rifles

A total quantity of 100,467 rifles of heading 9307 (military) except those imported with telescopic sights were imported into the U.S. during the year 2009. These had a U.S. Customs value of $5,252,388 and a value of $5,323,897 after insurance and freight costs were added.

The largest quantity, 63,300, came from Russia and landed in St. Albans, Vermont. These had a total Customs value of $1,521,610 and a value when insurance and freight costs were added in of $1,550, 826. These shipments (totaling 24 in total) made up well over half of the imports in this product category alone.

The United Kingdom was the source of origin for some 15,714 rifles in this category with a U.S. Customs value of $557,797 and a value with insurance and freight of $567,612. Most of the imports went to St. Albans, Vermont (2,507 rifles) and to Buffalo, NY (13,200 units).

Germany was another major source for this category during the year with 12,864 rifles valued at $2,675,807 for Customs purposes and at $2,678,519 with insurance and freight costs considered. A total of 277 of these rifles went to St. Albans, VT, 1,678 to Savannah, Georgia, 10,900 to Los Angeles and 9 to Minneapolis.

The Ukraine was another major supplier with 6,300 rifles valued at $87,300 for Customs purposes and at $108,817 with delivery costs. These arrived in just two U.S. ports during the year, Charleston and Savannah.

Finally, Switzerland supplied 1,744 rifles in this category with a Customs value of $274,670 and a value of $279,991 with delivery. These arrived in the ports of New York City (1,343 units), 3 in New Orleans, 29 in Chicago, and 2 in Cleveland.

Revolvers

A total of 410,156 revolvers were imported during 2009. These had a total Customs value of $75,449,040 and a value with insurance and freight costs added of $76,470,757.

Brazil was far and away the largest source. A total of 368,128 revolvers were imported into the U.S. from Brazil during 2009 with all of them going to Miami. These had a Customs value of $68,114,485 and a value after insurance and freight costs were added of $68,986,502.

Italy was next with 16,929 revolvers. These were valued at $4,366,707 before insurance and freight costs and $4,434,352 after. The largest quantity, 7,486, arrived in Baltimore valued at $1,998,371 before delivery costs and $2,006,858 after. Some 5,271 revolvers were sent to Dallas that were Customs valued at $1,247,699 and $1,276,426 after delivery expenses were calculated. A total of 3,034 were received in Washington, D.C. Customs valued at $815,745 and $837,103 with delivery costs. Another 909 were received in Los Angeles U.S. Customs valued at $248,371 and at $257,135 after delivery expense was considered.

Germany was the source country for 9,367 revolvers during 2009 Customs valued at $1,028,973 and $1,077,120 with delivery costs. All of these landed in Tampa in fifteen separate shipments.

The Czech Republic was the source for 6,287 revolvers which were all received in St. Albans. These carried a Customs value of $498,481 and $500,804 with delivery expense added in.

The Philippines was the exporting country for 6,127 revolvers during 2009 with a U.S. Customs value of $795,138 and $813,722. These comprised a total of 1,000 units going to Tampa (Customs valued at $242,295 and $251,602 with delivery costs) and 5,127 units going to Los Angeles (valued at $552,843 and $562,120 with delivery costs).

Pistols

A different picture emerges regarding semiautomatic pistol importation with 1,777,813 imported into the U.S. during 2009.

The largest exporter was Austria with 602,146 units for the year. The great majority of these (598,226) landed in Savannah, Georgia. These had a U.S. Customs value of $165,227,516 and a value after insurance and freight costs were added in of $167,318,672. There were also 3,920 Austrian-origin pistols exported to New York City with a Customs value of $704,447 and a final landed cost of $774,743.

Brazil was in second place with exportation of 285,116 pistols. These had a U.S. Customs value of $57,009,223 and a final cost to import of $57,832,173. The majority of these Brazilian imports went to Miami (254,416 units) and carried a Customs value of $50,469,134 and value of $51,214,784 after delivery expense. Another 30,600 went to Chicago with a Customs value of $6,529,973 and $6,607,047.

Belgium was another major pistol supplier with 33,195 total units valued at $16,483,307 before considering delivery expense and $16,906,662 thereafter. The majority (32,744) went to St. Louis carrying a Customs value of $16,411,431 and $16,832,837 after insurance and freight costs.

The information above was derived from IFT’s U.S. Firearms & Ammunition Import Report ‘A’.

S&W Reports 3rd Qtr. Gain but Gun Sales Down

A modest third fiscal quarter sales gain is reported by Smith & Wesson. Net sales of $89.4 million for the quarter ended January 31st were $5.7 million, or 6.8% higher than net sales of $83.7 million for the comparable quarter last year.

Commenting on the results, Michael F. Golden, President and CEO said, “Our third quarter revenue results reflect ongoing growth at Universal Safety Response (USR), partially offset by anticipated year-over-year declines in our firearms division. USR revenues grew by 70% over the comparable period last year, which was prior to our acquisition of USR.

“Firearms division sales of $74.7 million were within our expected range, declining on a year-over-year basis caused in large part by overall market conditions. Within our firearms sales channels, sporting goods sales declined by 18%, law enforcement sales increased by 32%, and international sales grew by 28%,” Golden concluded.

Further commentary on the financial results was offered by William F. Spengler, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. “Firearms division sales decreased by 11% versus the year ago quarter,” he began. “Revolver sales decreased 19% due to limited inventory at the beginning of the quarter, combined with a return to more normal levels of demand in the industry.

“Overall pistol sales decreased 33%, partially as a result of declining industry demand,” Spengler continued. “While sales of our Sigma line of polymer pistols declined 63% year-over-year, sales of our premium M&P polymer pistols declined only 12%.

“Walther product sales grew by about 8%, aided by the introduction of the PK380 combined with increased production and availability of Walther’s products manufactured in Germany. We achieved 18% growth in tactical rifles in the quarter, driven by the introduction of our new M&P15-22. New product offerings of our Performance Center Pro Series handguns helped drive premium product sales growth of 40%. Hunting products grew in the third quarter, aided by sales of accessories. Sales of black powder rifles achieved a slight increase over the prior year comparable quarter. Thompson/Center Arms branded products continued to perform well, more than offsetting other hunting products sold or closed out in the prior year.

“Firearms order backlog was $74 million at the end of the third quarter, approximately $22 million less than backlog at the end of the second quarter. This reduction in backlog largely reflects cancellations as the market moved toward more normal levels of demand and production,” Spengler concluded.

Gross profit for the quarter was $25 million, or 28% of sales, which includes approximately $2 million in Walther-related warranty expense. The company said the current quarter also benefitted from reduced promotional spending and improved efficiencies at the Rochester, New Hampshire manufacturing facility.

Selling a Handgun & Long Gun to a Non-Licensee

ATF reminds licensees that when a handgun and a long gun are purchased at the same time by a single transferee who is subject to a waiting period for the handgun, but wants to take the long gun at the time of sale with both firearms being on the same 4473, the dealer should wait until the end of the waiting period and transfer both firearms at once.

The licensee in this type of situation should not effect a partial transfer (transferring the long gun, but retaining the handgun until the waiting period is met). Since the licensee must sign and date at the time the transfer takes place, there would be no place to sign and date the second transfer. As an alternative, the transaction could be completed utilizing separate 4473s.

What Constitutes a Gun Show?

A gun show or other qualifying event is actually defined in 27 CFR 478.100(b) as “a gun show or an event is a function sponsored by any national, state, or local organization, devoted to the collection, competitive use, or other sporting use of firearms, or an organization or association that sponsors functions devoted to the collection, competitive use, or other sporting use of firearms in the community.”

Thus, the two main qualifiers of what makes an event a gun show, according to federal regulations, are:

The event must be sponsored by a national, state or local organization. (and)That the sponsoring organization be devoted to the collection, competitive use, or other sporting use of firearms or that the sponsoring organization is one that sponsors functions devoted to the collection, competitive use, or other sporting use of firearms.

ATF Permission Not Needed to Transport Silencers Interstate

While 18 U.S.C. 922 (a)(4) of the 1968 Gun Control Act requires that permission be obtained from ATF for the transport across state lines of a machine gun, short-barreled rifle, short-barreled shotgun, or destructive device, no such permission is needed to move a silencer or firearm classified as an “any other weapon” across state lines, ATF advises in its latest (issue dated November 2009) FFL Newsletter.

Also, 27 CFR 478.28 exempts FFLs who can deal, import, or manufacture firearms and who have paid the applicable special occupational tax from obtaining ATF permission before transport and also exempts those licensed as collectors of curios and relics if the firearm being transported is a curio or relic.

NICS Surpasses 100 Million Transactions

On Saturday, April 4, 2009, the 100 millionth NICS transaction was initiated by a Type 01 FFL. This landmark transaction was initiated one day short of the 2-year anniversary of the 75 millionth transaction, initiated on April 5, 2007.

February NICS Checks Are Second Highest Feb. Ever

Data released by the FBI’s NICS shows 1,243,211 checks in February 2010, ranking the month the second highest February (eighth highest month overall) for NICS checks. This figure, while being a 1.3% decrease from the 1,259,078 checks conducted in February 2009 – the early stage of an ongoing surge in firearms and ammunition sales – is an increase of 21.7% over checks in February 2008. The total number of background checks reported since the beginning of NICs is 112,380, 272.

Browning Holiday Close to Approval in Utah

The governor’s signature is the only hurdle remaining for a holiday memorializing the late Utah firearms genius John M. Browning. The Utah House recently voted 64-0 to commemorate the inventor with a holiday beginning on January 24th, 2011.

ATK Realigns Business Structure

Alliant Techsystems will realign its business structure, effective April 1st, into four operating groups: Aerospace Systems, Armament Systems, Missile Products and Security and Sporting.

The author publishes two of the small arms industry’s most widely read trade newsletters. The International Firearms Trade covers the world firearms scene, and The New Firearms Business covers the domestic market. Visit www.FirearmsGroup.com. He may be reached at: FirearmsB@aol.com.