Now a semiautomatic only version is being produced here in the U.S. at IWI USA in their new facilities located in Harrisburg, PA. The new Tavor SAR is assembled in the U.S. with both Israeli and U.S. produced parts (to make it 922r compliant). In fact it must have just the right amount of U.S. made parts, as there is a card inserted into the operators manual that states if you use a non-U.S. made magazine, muzzle device, trigger, hammer piston or sear you may be in violation of 922r.

The Tavor features a long-stroke piston type operating system and is, as stated before, a bullpup design. The rifle has Mil-Spec 100% interchangeability of parts and uses any AR-15/M16 magazine. It has a Mil-Spec, chrome-lined, cold-hammer forged barrel with a 1 in 7 RH twist. It can be ordered with either a 16.5- or an 18-inch barrel. The 18-inch barrels are equipped with a bayonet lug. The Tavor is available in either a flat-top version or the IDF version that includes a Mepro-21 reflex sight already affixed. The gun can be ordered in either black or a very good looking FDE (flat dark earth) model. The Tavor is completely ambidextrous with cocking handle, ejection port and safety able to be changed from side to side without additional parts. A left hand bolt is available as an option to complete the transformation.

The barrel on the Tavor has a relatively quick change feature that enables the gun to be changed to different calibers very easily. Caliber conversions for both 9mm and 5.45x39mm should be available by the time you read this. The 9mm barrel will have a 1 in 10 twist and the 5.45×39 barrel will have a 1 in 7.5 twist. With the gun being shipped in .223/5.56x45mm one can only hope that a conversion for 300 Blackout would be the next logical choice.

The main body of the Tavor is made from a high-strength impact modified polymer. All the metal parts on the gun are treated for corrosion resistance and are finished matte black. Overall weight of the gun is 7.9 pounds and the overall length is just 26 1/8 inches.

The gun received for testing was the black, flat-top rifle with a 16.5 inch barrel. The gun is shipped with one 30-round IWI USA produced magazine, a very detailed full-color operator’s manual and a very nice cleaning/accessory kit tool pouch, which includes a 4-section cleaning rod, bore brush, chamber brush, dust brush, receiver brush, cleaning patch tip, oil bottle, 2 sling push button type sling swivels and a sight adjustment tool. The flat-top model comes with folding front and rear back-up sights that are built right into the Picatinny rail. When the sights are folded down they look like part of the rail itself. The front sight on this model also has a tritium insert for low light/night use. While the gun’s top and side rails are billed as Picatinny they are not machined to exact Mil-Spec M-1913 specifications as they have a slight depression that runs down their center. That said, Mil-Spec M-1913 accessories fit and lock on perfectly.

The Tavor, when held by its pistol grip, tends to feel muzzle light or buttstock heavy. But as with most bullpup rifles, it seems to feel well balanced when shouldered. The buttstock features a rubber buttpad that keeps it securely positioned when the rifle is shouldered. The trigger on the Tavor test gun broke at 10 pounds but did not have the mushy feel that most bullpup firearms are plagued with. Suffice it to say, this is a combat trigger; not one designed for target shooting. The safety on the gun is positioned in the normal position right above the pistol grip and travels 90 degrees from safe to fire positions. The charging handle is positioned right above the firearm’s forearm and is reversible and non-reciprocating. There are slots on both sides of the gun to receive it. The slot that the charging handle rides in will also accept a 6-inch Picatinny rail that comes with the gun. This rail can be installed on the opposite side from the charging handle to accept accessories such as lights, laser designators or whatever the shooter requires. To change the charging handle from the left to the right side the forearm has to be disassembled. The magazine release on the Tavor is decidedly different from any other firearm. It is a vertical lever positioned at the front of the magazine well. Pushing it rearward releases the magazine. Most magazines drop free of the receiver when the magazine release is pushed. The gun has 4 sockets, 2 on each side that will accept push-button sling swivels. These are limited rotation sockets that keep the sling from becoming twisted. The two sling swivels that are supplied with the gun are finished in a matte black that matches the gun’s overall finish.

As with most firearms of this type, the Tavor can be disassembled without the need for tools. The only thing needed is the tip of a bullet or even a small stick. A captive push pin at the upper rear of the stock is pushed out that releases the buttpad to swing down. Once this is done the piston, bolt group and recoil spring, which is all one assembly, is slid out of the back of the gun. By pushing out two more captive push pins just behind the magazine well, the entire firing mechanism, which includes the hammer, sear, disconnector and related spring and parts, can be removed out of the bottom of the rifle by swinging the bolt release paddle out of the way. All of the firing mechanism parts are contained in a polymer housing that comes out as one unit. One only needs to have taken apart other firearms that have separate springs, rods or pins that always seem to go to never-never land to appreciate the way this rifle comes apart in contained subassemblies. You can tell the designers had input from end users here.

The gun was tested with various type of .223/5.56 ammunition and consisted of whatever could be located at the time. The testing was done when .223 ammunition prices were through the roof and availability was very limited. It did consist of some Tula, in both FMJ and hollow point styles, Black Hills Ammunition 75 grain Match Hollow Points, Independence 55 grain FMJ, Wolf 55 grain FMJ, American Eagle 64 grain Tactical Tracer and some ASYM Precision Solid Defense X ammunition loaded with Barnes copper TSX bullets. The Tavor was also fed some of the author’s 55 grain FMJ reloads.

The Tavor digested any and all ammunition that was fed into it. It didn’t matter what brand, bullet style or type of ammunition was used in the rifle – it fed, fired and ejected it with relentless reliability. Over 300 rounds were fired on the first outing with the gun and not one single malfunction was seen, observed or encountered. At the time this article is being written, the gun has had over 600 rounds through it and still no problems. The gun was taken out of the box and put to work with no lubrication and still continues to run the same way. While the testers did not subject the test gun to the rigors that IWI has put its test rifles through we didn’t baby the gun either. If you want to see how IWI and the IDF test the Tavor go online to the IWI Weapons channel on You Tube.

The Tavor was fired with both open sights and with optics. One of the optics that was chosen was a Trijicon ACOG (Advanced Combat Optical Gunsight) 4×32 with a red chevron .223 ballistic reticle. This no-nonsense optic is built every bit as tough as the Tavor itself. For those out there that have never used an ACOG, this model is a fixed power compact scope that has a tritium/fiber optic illumination BDC (bullet drop compensating) reticle that can be used in bright sunlight or even no light conditions. It can be used either with one or both eyes open, are waterproof to 100 meters and have been combat proven for many years.

Accuracy of the test gun was very good once the shooter got used to the heavy trigger pull. The gun would easily shoot into 4 inches at 100 yards with open sights and under 2 inches with the ACOG. The 1 in 7 twist barrel favored the heavier 75 to 77 grain bullets with some groups inside 1 inch from a sandbag. Recoil of the Tavor is like most all .223 AR style guns, almost nonexistent. The gun is very pleasant to shoot with a straight back recoil and no muzzle rise. Empty brass was positively ejected into a small pile about 6 feet from the gun at the 4 o’clock position.

As the Tavor uses standard AR-15/M16 type magazines, we tried all brands that we had on hand. This is not to say that the IWI magazine that comes with the gun is inferior, it isn’t. In fact this author thinks it is a very good magazine. It is lightweight, has gripping ridges and windows on either side to show round count. It even has a small button on the baseplate that protrudes when the mag is fully loaded so the user can tell even in the dark. We just wanted to try others to see if any would cause unexpected problems. They did not. We tried MagPul MAGPUL PMAGS, Lancer L5 Warfighter mags, SureFire 60 and 100 round magazines, Cammenga Easymags, Thermold mags and plain GI aluminum mags. All of the magazines fed and functioned fine and locked the bolt open after the last shot.

There is one other feature of this gun that should be covered. It seems like today there is a new rage that is sweeping through the firearms world. The SBR or short barreled rifle. This author is the first one to admit that the little short barreled AR-15’s or for that matter the super short M16 rifles definitely have somewhat of a sexy look or have the so called Hollywood “cool factor.” While the pros and cons of the little guns can be the subject of heated debates by the online commandos, the short 7 to 10 inch guns will still reach out and touch someone or something at amazing distances. Also for vehicle or CQB work they are hard to beat. Back when the law was written that rifles with barrels shorter than 16 inches had to be classified as SBRs and taxed to the tune of $200 per gun that sum was a lot of money. It is still a considerable amount but shooters that spend over $2,000 for an AR style gun or between $500 and $700 per thousand rounds of ammunition to feed it don’t think twice about paying for this $200 tax stamp. Most AR manufacturers are now offering versions of their most popular rifles as factory SBRs. During one of our test outings we happened to have an SBR with us and it and the Tavor were laid side by side. I guess that it had never dawned on me but when I saw them there together the light bulb came on. I got a tape measure and lo and behold the Tavor has an overall length of 27 inches. The author’s 7-inch barreled SBR measures 28.5 inches with the stock extended. In this author’s opinion I would rather have the increased range and velocity of the gun with the 16.5-inch barrel and not have to pay the $200 tax. Maybe we should keep this to ourselves and not let the “powers that be” in Washington know about it.

In conclusion, I highly recommend the IWI USA Tavor. It is a well built rifle that exhibits the ultimate reliability and durability and is not the lease bit ammo sensitive. It works with any AR-15 style magazine and the accuracy exhibited is as good, if not better, than most AR;-style rifles out there. Plus you get a kind-of tax-free SBR. What more could you want?

Bushnell Tactical Introduces New Elite Tactical Scope

Bushnell Outdoor Products, an industry leader in high performance sports optics for more than 60 years, has introduced a new 1-8.5x 24mm short to mid-range riflescope (SMRS). The Elite Tactical 1-8.5x 24mm riflescope is available with the BTR-2 illuminated, mil-hash reticle in a first focal plane design. The new tactical SMRS 1-8.5x 24mm scope combines close quarters precision with outstanding mid-range capability. With true one power magnification, this scope delivers instant target acquisition at close range combined with the ability to acquire targets at extended ranges by taking advantage of the versatile magnification range. The scope is built with a 34 mm tube to allow room to dial at extended ranges, and features sturdy T-Lok locking target turrets with .1 mil click values and 10 mils per revolution. The riflescope features the versatile Ignition illuminated BTR-2 reticle with 11 brightness settings (an off position between each setting) for quick adjustments in any light condition. The Ignition reticle increases overall brightness at any setting, with improved concentration of light on the illuminated portion of the reticle. The mil-hash BTR-2 reticle is designed to allow marksmen to quickly make range, holdover and windage adjustments. The reticle has a chromium backing on the muzzle side to eliminate the possibility of light emitting from the front of the scope. Bushnell Elite Tactical series scopes are built to withstand the rigors of the field, whether in military and law enforcement situations, competitions or countless rounds at the range. With fully multi-coated optics and the new anti-reflective Ultra Wide Band (UWB) coating, the scope delivers light transmission across more of the visible light spectrum than before. This feature leads to enhanced clarity, exceptional brightness and true color from dawn to dusk. Built from high-quality forged aluminum alloy, the scope features a robust 34mm one-piece tube and Argon purging. Integrated to deliver long-lasting performance and reliability, Argon provides added resistance against corrosion, reduced chances of fogging and longer seal life. The scopes are 100 percent fog proof, shock proof and waterproof. Bushnell takes all-weather performance a step further with its patented RainGuard HD lens coating. The permanent, water-resistant finish gives shooters a clear view when weather conditions present a challenge. Contact Bushnell Outdoor Products, 9200 Cody Street, Overland Park, KS 66214. Phone: (913) 752-3400. Website: www.bushnell.com.

Upgraded SureFire M300 Mini Scout Light

The M300 Mini Scout is a powerful, lightweight weapon-mounted light that quickly and securely attaches to any Mil-Spec Picatinny rail via its integral thumbscrew clamp. Powered by a single 123A lithium battery, its virtually indestructible LED generates 200 lumens of tactical level light shaped by a proprietary TIR lens into a beam with plenty of reach yet enough surround light for close-quarter work. The ergonomic M300 is activated by clicking its pushbutton tailcap switch or, for fingertip control without altering your grip on the weapon, by pressing the included pressure-activated tape switch. Built from lightweight aerospace aluminum, hard anodized with a Mil-Spec finish, and O-ring sealed to keep out the elements, the ultra-compact M300 will endure the rigors of combat without weighing down your weapon. For more information contact SureFire, 17680 Newhope Street, Suite B1, Fountain Valley, CA 92708. Phone: (714) 545-9444. Fax: (714) 545-9537. On the web at www.surefire.com.

TacStar Announces New Adaptive Tactical M4 Stock For Ruger 10/22

TacStar – a Lyman Brand and a leader in the field of tactical accessories – has introduced a new synthetic stock for the popular Ruger 10/22: the first in a line of accessories created by Lyman’s partnership with Adaptive Tactical. Incorporating four innovative patents, the Adaptive Tactical 10/22 Stock’s groundbreaking design is loaded with more features than any other stock on the market and is offered in both black and camo finishes. The patented features include a removable barrel insert in the forend, which allows the stock to accommodate both standard tapered barrels and .920″ bull barrels, with no ugly gaps. In addition, a reversible Stowaway rail is concealed in the forend. Rail up; the outside surface blends with the contoured forend. Rail down; the accessory rail is exposed for mounting a bipod and/or other accessories. An adjustable M4 type butt stock provides a 4-inch adjustment in length of pull and is equipped with convenient storage compartments for two spare Ruger rotary magazines. (Magazines not included.) Finally, the stock’s comfortable pistol grip accepts an optional accessory TacTRED Monopod that can be extended from the grip. TacTRED provides a quick, stable, single point rest on any surface and ensures maximum tripod-like stability when used with a front rail-mounted bipod or front rest. TacStar’s new AdTac 10/22 Stock and TacTRED Monopod, as well as all TacStar and Lyman products and brands, are available nationally through firearms and sporting goods dealers and mail order companies. You can contact them at TacStar, Lyman Products Group, 475 Smith Street, Middletown, CT 06457. Phone: (860) 632-2020. Fax: (860) 632-1699. Website: www.tacstar.com.

SAM7K Pistol Variant Added To K-VAR Product Line

Continuing with plans to expand the SAM7K series, K-VAR added another AK pistol to its product line and is now available to customers. The SAM7K-02 enters the mix sporting a tactical hand guard with attached flashlight that allows shooting enthusiasts to easily locate the target. The hand guard (sku: KR-016B) is the original Bulgarian hand guard set that includes the latest generation design lower hand guard with flash light made from Mil-Spec black polymer. The integrated flashlight emits a very bright glow for fast target acquisition. The flashlight uses two 3-Volt lithium batteries (CR 123 ASL) and is designed for milled-receiver Krinkovs. The 7.62x39mm, semiautomatic pistol keeps the same outstanding integrity and specifications as the original SAM7K. You can reach them at K-VAR Corp., 4001 South Decatur Boulevard, #37383, Las Vegas, NV 89103. Phone: (702) 364-8880. On the web at www.k-var.com.

ATI Introduces New FX 45 Titan Lightweight

The new Super X Pump Marine Defender from Winchester Repeating Arms is ready for any weather while on the water, for home protection and competition shooting. The SXP Marine Defender features an inertia-assisted action for faster cycling of shells. Matte Hard Chrome Plating on the barrel and magazine tube offers excellent protection against the elements. A drop out trigger group allows for easy cleaning. The Super X Pump has an 18-inch barrel and uses the Invector-Plus choke system. A cylinder choke is installed, allowing the SXP to shoot anything from slugs to buck shot. The magazine holds a total of five shells and a removable TruGlo fiber-optic front sight is included. The Super X Pump is drilled and tapped for scope bases. For better handling in all weather conditions, a tactical ribbed forearm gives you more control. The Synthetic stock also features a textured gripping surface and has an Inflex Technology Recoil Pad. Suggested Retail Price is $399.99. For more information contact them at Winchester Repeating Arms, 275 Winchester Ave., Morgan, UT 84050. Phone: (801) 876-3440

Super X Pump Marine Defender From Winchester

The new Super X Pump Marine Defender from Winchester Repeating Arms is ready for any weather while on the water, for home protection and competition shooting. The SXP Marine Defender features an inertia-assisted action for faster cycling of shells. Matte Hard Chrome Plating on the barrel and magazine tube offers excellent protection against the elements. A drop out trigger group allows for easy cleaning. The Super X Pump has an 18-inch barrel and uses the Invector-Plus choke system. A cylinder choke is installed, allowing the SXP to shoot anything from slugs to buck shot. The magazine holds a total of five shells and a removable TruGlo fiber-optic front sight is included. The Super X Pump is drilled and tapped for scope bases. For better handling in all weather conditions, a tactical ribbed forearm gives you more control. The Synthetic stock also features a textured gripping surface and has an Inflex Technology Recoil Pad. Suggested Retail Price is $399.99. For more information contact them at Winchester Repeating Arms, 275 Winchester Ave., Morgan, UT 84050. Phone: (801) 876-3440.

Reed Exhibitions Out as SHOT Show Manager

The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the largest trade association for the firearms industry, has announced that it has reached an agreement with Reed Exhibitions to terminate the agreement the parties had for the management of the SHOT Show. Accordingly, effective immediately, Reed Exhibitions will no longer be manager and producer of the SHOT Show.

Reed Exhibitions provided service to NSSF and the customers of the SHOT Show for more than three decades, however, the company’s decision to restrict the sale of certain types of firearms (particularly AR-15 derivatives) this year at the large Pennsylvania consumer hunting and fishing show – an event unrelated to NSSF and the SHOT Show – was in conflict with NSSF’s mission to serve the shooting sports industry. This Reed decision resulted in many industry firms cancelling their participation at the Pennsylvania expo and ultimately caused the event to be cancelled. As a result, both organizations (NSSF & Reed) decided it was in the best interest of the SHOT Show to end their relationship.

Some SHOT Show exhibitors were considering their non-participation at the 2014 SHOT Show if Reed continued on as its manager.

Reed’s decision to ban AR-15 type rifles from the Pennsylvania show was made during the time when the firearms industry was under severe stress and in danger of faltering from the attacks by members of Congress, led by Obama/Biden, who were predicting that an anti-gun “tidal wave” would sweep the firearms industry away.

The SHOT Show – the Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show – is owned and sponsored by NSSF. It is the largest and most comprehensive trade show for all professionals involved with the shooting sports, hunting and law enforcement industries. The 2014 SHOT Show will be held Jan. 14-17 at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas.

New SHOT Show Management Company Chosen by NSSF

After what has been described as an extensive national search involving the trade show industry’s top management companies, the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) has selected ConvExx as its new SHOT Show management partner.

ConvExx replaces longtime NSSF partner Reed Exhibitions, which became uncomfortable with managing the SHOT Show due to its extensive displays of “black rifles.”

Based in Las Vegas, ConvExx is privately held and has produced more than 200 shows and events, working with more than a million exhibitors and attendees.

ConvExx produces the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show, which at nearly 1 million net-square-feet and 135,000-attendees is ranked as the fourth largest trade show in America by Trade Show Executive magazine (SHOT Show is ranked 16th).

“We’re excited to have ConvExx on board as our new management partner,” said Chris Dolnack, NSSF senior vice president and chief marketing officer. “ConvExx offers a unique combination of extensive large-show and Las Vegas experience, which will serve our exhibitors and attendees well.”

“We’re thrilled to be selected to help NSSF manage the SHOT Show,” said ConvExx Chairman Chuck Schwartz. “The SHOT Show is one of the premier trade show events, and we are proud to be associated with NSSF and the shooting sports industry.”

Sturm, Ruger to Open Third Factory

Sturm, Ruger & Co. has announced that it plans to open its third manufacturing plant, a 220,000-square-foot facility in Mayodan, North Carolina.

This will be the company’s first major expansion in over 25-years. It is expected to be finalized in late-summer. The company currently employs over 2,000 people in its two plants in Newport, New Hampshire and Prescott, Arizona.

NSSF Files Suit Against Connecticut’s New Gun Law

The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the trade association for the firearms and ammunition industry, has filed suit in federal court for the District of Connecticut alleging that Governor Dannel Malloy and the leadership of the Connecticut General Assembly misused the so-called “emergency certification” exception to circumvent the safeguards of the normal legislative process and in violation of Connecticut statutory law in order to pass Senate Bill 1160, a package of strict gun control regulations.

The suit further alleges that enactment of the new law violates fundamental due process rights guaranteed by both the Connecticut and United States Constitutions. NSSF is asking the court to declare the law invalid and issue an injunction prohibiting its enforcement. “A 139-page bill was assembled behind closed doors, bypassing both the public hearing and committee processes, and quickly sent to floor votes on the same day in both the House and Senate where legislators did not have adequate time to even read the bill.

“The governor then signed the package into law the next day. All of this is in violation of guarantees citizens are supposed to have under Connecticut State Statutes and protections in our State and U.S. Constitutions for which our forefathers fought,” said Lawrence G. Keane, senior vice president and general counsel, NSSF.

“Our suit focuses on this abuse of process that has resulted in enacted law that does nothing to improve public safety, while resulting in adverse effects on law-abiding citizens, manufacturers, retailers and sportsmen’s organizations,” said Keane.

Non-Licensed Exports to Canada Limit Now $500

The State Department Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) has revised sections 123.16 and 123.17 of the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) to increase the dollar limit of exports of certain firearms, and firearm parts, components, accessories and attachments to Canada without a license from $100 to $500 (wholesale). This has been a F.A.I.R. Trade Group effort that has been an undertaking of several years.

These amendments implement the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, which restricts DDTC from requiring an export license:

(1) for certain firearms and firearm components for end-use by the Canadian Government when the total transaction value does not exceed $500 wholesale; and (2) for certain firearms components for end-use in Canada when the total transaction value does not exceed $500 wholesale.

FAIR has been advocating this issue on behalf of industry for quite some time. They thought they had attained victory back in 2005 when the House of Representatives and the Senate passed the appropriations legislation, but it had to continue to work with DDTC to ensure they implemented the legislation.

Following are excerpted portions from the Federal Register Notice. Please review this revision carefully, as the firearms and parts and components that qualify for the license exemption depend on the final end-user. In addition, there are several conditions that must be satisfied to use the license exemption failure to meet these requirements could subject the exporter to fines, penalties, or other enforcement action.

It is important to note that the license exemption dollar limit for all countries other than Canada remains at $100.

DEPARTMENT OF STATE 22 CFR Part 123 RIN 1400¨CAD07 [Public Notice 8371]
International Traffic in Arms Regulations: Canadian Firearms Components Exemption

AGENCY: Department of State.
ACTION: Final rule.
SUMMARY: The Department of State is amending the International Traffic in Arms Regulations to implement a statutory provision regarding the exemption from licensing for export to Canada of firearms components not exceeding $500 in value.

DATES: This rule is effective July 8, 2013.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Sarah J. Heidema, Acting Director, Office of Defense Trade Controls Policy, Department of State, telephone (202) 663-2792, email DDTCResponseTeam@state.gov ATTN: Part 123, Canadian Firearms Components Exemption.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Department of State is amending the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) to implement section 520 of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act 2012 (Pub. L. 112¨C55), which applies to fiscal year 2012 appropriations, as carried forward for fiscal year 2013 by the Full Year Continuing Appropriations Act 2013 (Pub. L. 113-6). The Department has the authority to regulate the export control program pursuant to the Arms Export Control Act, 22 U.S.C. 2778. Pursuant to section 520, the Department cannot require a license for the export of certain firearms and firearms components for end-use by the Canadian government with a total transaction value not exceeding $500 wholesale, and cannot require a license for the export of certain firearms components for end-use in Canada with a total transaction value not exceeding $500 wholesale. ITAR 123.17 is revised accordingly. In addition, ITAR 123.16(b)(6) is amended to remove the words “for personal use,” as the firearms exemption at ITAR 123.17 includes use of the exemption for an end-use other than personal use. This rule implements a statutory mandate, and concerns a foreign affairs function of the United States. Therefore, the Department is publishing this as a final rule, and is not soliciting comments.

Text of New Rule on Exempt Canadian Exports

3. Section 123.17 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to read as follows:
123.17 Exports of firearms, ammunition, and personal protective gear.

(a) Port Directors of U.S. Customs and Border Protection shall permit the export without a license of:

•(1) Parts and components for USML Category I(a) firearms, except barrels, cylinders, receivers (frames), or complete breech mechanisms, when the total value does not exceed $100 wholesale in any transaction, except to any of the countries or entities as provided in 126.1 of this subchapter;

•(2) Parts, components, accessories, or attachments for USML Category I firearms, except barrels, cylinders, receivers (frames), complete breech mechanisms, or fully automatic firearms and parts and components for such firearms, when:

i. The total value does not exceed $500 wholesale in any transaction;

ii. The export is to Canada for endues in Canada or return to the United States, or temporary import into the United States of Canadian-origin items and return to Canada for a Canadian citizen; and

iii. The exporter makes a declaration via the Automated Export System, pursuant to 123.22(a) of this subchapter, and the exporter is eligible to export under this exemption or

•(3) Parts, components, accessories, or attachments for USML Category I firearms, including fully automatic firearms and parts and components for such firearms, when:

i. The total value does not exceed $500 wholesale in any transaction; pursuant to 120.1(c) of this subchapter; or

ii. The export is to Canada for endues by the Canadian Federal Government, a Canadian Provincial Government, or a Canadian Municipal Government; and

iii. The exporter makes a declaration via the Automated Export System, pursuant to 123.22(a) of this subchapter, and the exporter is eligible to export under this exemption, pursuant to 120.1(c) of this subchapter.

ATF Head Confirms Straw Buyers Rarely Prosecuted

President Obama’s choice to head the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives told a Senate panel last month that, the arrest of “straw buyers” was a top Justice Department priority but the department rarely prosecutes cases “due to limited resources.”

The testimony from U.S. Attorney B. Todd Jones came during a rancorous confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, where Republicans – led by Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa – questioned Jones’ credentials, his leadership of the U.S. attorney’s office in Minnesota, and his role and involvement in the Fast and Furious gunrunning probe that let more than 2,000 weapons be “walked” across the U.S.-Mexico border to drug smugglers.

Jones acknowledged in questioning by Sen. Ted Cruz, Texas Republican, that of 48,321 cases involving straw buyers, the Justice Dept. prosecuted only 44 of them – saying that “hard decisions” to prosecute were made based on “limited resources.” He also acknowledged that as the U.S. attorney in Minnesota, he never prosecuted anyone accused of being a straw buyer.

“The data demonstrates that it is not a priority for the Obama administration to prosecute those who illegally try to buy firearms,” Cruz said.

Jones took over as acting director after the Fast and Furious operation was made public, although Grassley noted that he served as chairman of the advisory committee to Attorney General Eric Holder from 2009 through 2011, when the operation was in effect.

Jones has now been confirmed as director of ATF. Grassley had asked that the hearing be postponed, saying Jones was the focus of an open investigation by the Office of Special Counsel on his conduct as U.S. attorney in Minnesota.

“When there is a pending investigation, the committee obviously doesn’t have the full information about the nominee,” he said. “In this case, there are allegations of gross mismanagement and abuses of authority in Mr. Jones’ office. And there is a complaint that Mr. Jones retaliated against a whistleblower. These are serious charges, and ones that are of particular concern to me.”

On April 12, Grassley said the OSC reported two pending matters involving the U.S. attorney’s office in Minnesota – a prohibited personnel practice complaint and a whistleblower disclosure alleging gross mismanagement and abuses of authority. A month later, he said the OSC gave the committee an update, saying the whistleblower disclosure case had been closed but the prohibited personnel practice complaint was moving to mediation.

Grassley said employees within the U.S. attorneys’ office had written anonymously to the OSC asking for “a review of the patterns, practices, treatment, and abuse that [they] have suffered.” He said they claimed Jones “had instituted a climate of fear, had pushed employees out of the office, dismissed employees wrongly, violated the hiring practices of the EEOC, and put in place an Orwellian style of management that continues to polarize the office.”

Separately, he said, Donald Oswald, former special agent-in-charge of the FBI’s Minnesota division, wrote to the committee to voice his concerns about Jones.

Magpul Joins Suit Against Colorado’s New Law

Magpul Industries has joined 54 Colorado county sheriffs in filing a federal lawsuit against the state’s recently signed gun-control bills.

But even if the lawsuit is successful, the Erie-based firearm magazine marketer is still planning to leave Colorado. “Just to clarify, we are still moving, regardless of the outcome of this legal action,” said a post on the company’s web page. “That train has left the station, and we are well into the selection and negotiation process as well as arranging many elements to be prepared to launch and already moving some production out of state.”

The lawsuit challenges two bills signed in March by Dem. Gov. John Hickenlooper: House Bill 1224, which restricts ammunition-magazine capacity to 15 rounds, and House Bill 1229, which requires background checks on all gun sales and transfers – including temporary transfers. “This isn’t good public policy. These are really awful bills,” said Weld County Sheriff John Cooke at a press conference. “They are unenforceable and encourage disrespect for the law, which puts both law enforcement and the public in greater danger.”

The Democratic state legislature approved the bills, along with a third bill requiring gun owners to pay for their own background checks, with no Republican votes.

Another manufacturer, HiViz Shooting Systems, has announced that it would move from Fort Collins to Laramie, Wyo.

NYC Taxpayers Help Sponsor Bloomberg’s Gun Control Group

The webpage of Mayors Against Illegal Guns (MAIG) appears to have been purchased and hosted by City of New York, the Weekly Standard reports.

The group was co-founded by New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg and Boston mayor Thomas Menino to “share best practices, develop innovative policies, and support legislation at the national, state, and local levels that will help law enforcement target illegal guns Mayor Bloomberg’s press secretary, Marc La Vorgna, confirmed the City of New York’s involvement with the domain’s purchase and hosting, to the Standard.

When asked whether the purchase and subsequent hosting of the domain by New York City’s Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications was accidental or intentional, La Vorgna replied that the purchase had “definitely been vetted.”

La Vorgna continued, saying that, “Mayor Bloomberg’s push for changes to federal firearms law was part of the New York City agenda” and compared it to other efforts Bloomberg, as mayor, has undertaken – like the effort he and other mayors are involved in to limit the use of food stamps in purchasing sugary drinks.

The Mayors Against Illegal Guns website, according to La Vorgna, like other Bloomberg efforts to lobby the federal government, was done as part of “his capacity as mayor.”

Maggie Haberman and Steve Friess of Politico add, “At minimum, the use of a city web server and city employees underscore what critics have long derided as a blurring of the lines between government resources and Bloomberg’s own multi-billion-dollar fortune, his company, and his pet interests in his three terms as mayor.”

It is unclear why Bloomberg, who has a net worth of $27 billion and has given millions of dollars in donations to Mayors Against Illegal Guns Action Fund, would involve the City of New York in purchasing and hosting the webpage for Mayors Against Illegal Guns.

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.

The SKS carbine or Samozariadnyia Karabina Simonova was the first Soviet series production weapon chambered for an intermediate-range cartridge. The SKS carbine was conceived during World War II to supplement the semiautomatic SVT 38 and SVT 40 (Samozaryadnaya Vintovka Tokareva) and 7.62x54mm bolt action Mosin Nagant battle rifles. The 7.62x39mm round would eventually replace the powerful long range 7.62x54R rifles and short range 7.62x25mm cartridge used in Soviet submachine guns.

The SKS is a gas operated, semiautomatic-only carbine that has a fixed 10-round magazine that is designed to be loaded through the top of the receiver using stripper clips. The Soviet SKS weighs approximately 8.8-pounds with an overall length of 40.16 inches, which is somewhat heavy and long for its midrange round. The rear sight is calibrated for a range of 100 to 1,000 meters, with a 300 meter battle sight position. The action’s locking mechanism is a tilting-bolt design.

Although well made and reliable, the SKS design was dated at the time of its post-war introduction, which was at the dawn of the select-fire, detachable magazine assault rifle. Work was already well underway on Kalashnikov’s AK-47 design around the same time period that the SKS was being placed in large scale production during 1949. Despite large numbers of SKS carbines being manufactured, its front line service in the Soviet Union was brief.

The SKS was distributed and manufactured in a number of Communist satellite nations, and was in front line service for a longer period of time in many of those countries. U.S. Forces encountered the SKS during the Vietnam War were it was fielded by Viet Cong guerilla fighters and the North Vietnamese Army.

In addition to the Soviet Union, the SKS was manufactured in Albania, China, East Germany, North Korea, Romania, Vietnam and Yugoslavia. Although the non-Soviet SKS carbines were the same basic design, there were small detail differences on the weapons manufactured in the aforementioned nations. Once shunned by collectors, many of the SKS variants that were once cheap and plentiful have become difficult to find and have gone up in value as interest in collecting them has increased.

Soviet Production

The Soviet SKS carbines were manufactured at the Tula Arsenal from 1949 until 1956 and at the Izhevsk plant from 1953 to 1954. The Tula manufactured SKS carbines can be identified by an arrow inside of a star marking and date of manufacture on top of the receiver cover. The markings vary slightly in small details. Some of the early 1949 Tula markings were rather crudely done. The Tula markings were changed during 1955-1956 to a small star on the left side of the receiver. The Izhevsk plant’s SKS two year production run was short compared to the Tula Arsenal, making the Izhevsk carbines less common. The Izhevsk SKS carbines are identified by an arrow in a triangle inside of a circle symbol along with a date of manufacture, which like the Tula markings, can vary slightly in small details. Most original stocks were made of birch, except for very late Tula production which were laminated.

When first imported to the U.S. during the 1990s, the Soviet SKS carbines sold for as little as $99. Most had undergone an arsenal rebuild and appeared in like-new condition. A few features that may appear on refurbished rifles are Soviet rebuild markings that include a box symbol with a line inside or a diamond icon on the top cover or buttstock, blued bayonet and bolt, black painted parts, XXXed out or mismatched serial numbers, or a laminated replacement stock. There were a few Soviet SKS carbines imported that had not undergone the rebuild process; these rifles are highly desired by collectors. Some Soviet SKS carbines have additional “new” receiver serial numbers that were added by the importer. This came about as a result of an ATF directive claiming that original serial numbers having Cyrillic or non-Roman characters were not being properly recorded by FFL dealers transferring the carbines making them difficult to trace by the ATF.

Albanian Production

During the Cold War period the Soviets began to supply military aid to Albania. The Soviet military supply line ended when Albania cut its ties with Russia in 1961 and in 1968 Albania withdrew from the Warsaw Pact. Communist China also assisted Albania with military hardware, which included Chinese Type 56 SKS rifles, and Type 56 milled receiver AK rifles. After Albania broke ties with the Soviet Union, and left the Warsaw Pact, the country continued its relationship with China.

China provided technical assistance and parts to Albania in order to help them establish their own weapons production, which began with the SKS rifle, at the Uzina e Municioneve Gramsh state-owned factory in central Albania. Series production of the Albanian SKS known as the Pushkë Gjysmë Automatiku Shqiptar tipi 56 (Albanian Semi-Automatic Rifle, Model/Type 56) began in 1962, with the Type 56 designation originating with the original Chinese SKS. Also in 1962, the manufacture of M43, 7.62x39mm ammunition was established at the state owned M Poliçan factory.

The Albanian SKS differs slightly from its Soviet made counterpart by having a long three vent handguard that extends out to the gas block. The buttstock has two separate compartments for maintenance items and a sling swivel on the left side. The 10 round magazine has a slightly different shape than other SKS carbines. The underfolding bayonet is a spike style and black in color. The most obvious difference from other SKS carbines is its hook-type cocking handle. Albanian serial numbers are located on the left side of the receiver and on most major components. The serial numbers generally have three to six numbers followed by a dash and a two digit year of manufacture. The 300 meter battle sight position is marked with a letter D. Large numbers of the Albanian SKS carbines and stores of 7.62x39mm ammunition were destroyed by the United Nations disarming initiative after the Balkan wars. Several NATO countries, including the United States and Great Britain, supplied funding for the destruction project. Only a limited number of Albanian SKS rifles were imported during 2002, the average price was $229.

Chinese Production The Type 56

Chinese production of the Type 56 (SKS) carbine was undertaken during 1956 by a large number of arsenals, and remained in production longer than any other country. In addition to military carbines, China made a large number of their commercial Type 56 carbines for export, primarily for the U.S. civilian market. Chinese SKS carbines were first imported during the 1980s.

Military production of Type 56 carbines can be identified by an arsenal symbol on the left side of the receiver. One of the most common is a number 26 inside of a triangle, the logo of the Jianshe Arsenal. There were a number of different factory codes used by China. The Chinese characters located near the factory code represents “56 Type.” Most Type 56 carbine serial numbers are numeric except for very early production that was assisted by Soviet technicians; these serial numbers were preceded by a letter. Rear sight battle sight positions markings vary from a Cyrillic letter P (P) used on early manufacture, a letter D, Roman numeral III or a number 3.

Due to the large number of factories involved in production there are many small detail differences in Chinese production of their SKS carbines. During early manufacture at the arsenals many milled parts were used, as production continued into the mid 1960s, stamped parts began to replace labor intensive machined ones. One of the first components to be fabricated from sheet metal was the trigger group; eventually some receivers were made of sheet metal. Another cost saving initiative was to pin the barrels to the receivers instead of having to thread the barrel and receiver. Milled lightening cuts in the bolt carriers and other parts were eliminated to save machining. Two types of folding bayonets were used during production in China; the spike style and a blade type.

The Chinese Type 56 SKS carbines are the most common of the genre in the U.S. Some are surplus Chinese military, but most are commercial variants made for the U.S. market. At one time the Chinese SKS carbines were very inexpensive, advertised as low as $79.

East Germany Karabiner-S

The East German version of the SKS is the Karabiner-S. Some of the unique features include a slot in the buttstock for attaching a sling, lack of a trap door in the buttstock for a cleaning kit and there is no cleaning rod, which is normally stored under the barrel on other SKS carbines. The factory markings are located on the left side of the receiver, the first two numbers preceding the serial numbers indicate the year of manufacture. Rear sights are marked with the letters SV. Stocks were made of laminated wood. There are also East German issued Soviet manufactured SKS carbines; these can be identified by a triangle with a number 1 inside it, marked on the receiver near the serial number. East German SKS carbines are somewhat rare. There may be other variants and features, but because of the rarity of the weapons very few are available for study. Many of the East German SKS carbines were destroyed after the reunification of Germany. Most of the East German SKS carbines in the U.S. were war trophies brought back from Vietnam.

North Korea Type 63

The North Korean SKS, designated as the Type 63, is similar to the Soviet configuration. The North Korean star in a circle logo and 63 and a Hangul character representing “Type” are stamped on the receiver’s top cover. The battle sight position on the rear sight leaf is a Hangul character that translates to “height.” Stocks are made of laminated birch with two small reinforcing pins in the wrist area and two pins in the foregrip area. The underfolding bayonet is a blade type. The North Koreans fielded a grenade launching model with a launching sight attached to the left side of the receiver, a gas cut-off valve on the gas block and a detachable clamp-on launching tube. The grenade launcher appears to be a compilation of the U.S. designed M8 and M1 launchers. There may be other variants and features, but because of the rarity of the Type 63 carbines very few have been available for an in-depth study. North Korean carbines were never imported to the U.S. Those that are in the U.S. are most likely Vietnam War trophies.

Romania M56

The Romanian SKS designated as the Model 56 was manufactured in Romania from 1956 to 1962. The serial numbers begin with two letters followed by sequence numbers, followed by the year of manufacture. The M56 carbines were produced in the Uzina Mecanica Cugir plant in Transylvania. The Cugir factory’s arsenal mark is similar to the Izhevsk Arsenal of Russia, a triangle with a vertical pointing arrow inside but without fletching. The 300-meter battle sight position on Romanian SKS rifles is marked with a letter I. The bayonet is the blade type with dull chrome plating. The major parts are marked with the full serial number but the bolt, bolt carrier, receiver and barrel are marked with a similar one to three digit number. The stock is beech wood with a sling swivel located on the bottom. A number of M56 carbines have been imported into the U.S. In 2002, Romanian SKS carbines were offered for $150.

North Vietnam

The Vietnam SKS carbines are marked with a small star with a 1 inside of it, located on the left side of the receiver. The battle position on the rear sight leaf is marked with a Cyrillic letter P. Documented serial numbers are all in the 620,000 to 650,000 range. One of the rarest SKS variants, those in the U.S. are trophies that were brought back from the Vietnam War as none were ever imported.

Yugoslavia M59, M59/66

The Yugoslavian SKS is the Model 59. First manufactured in 1959, the M59 has a few minor differences from the Russian SKS. One is the radius on the front of the gas tube and the stock is made of beech wood. There are matching serial numbers on most of the parts. The battle sight position on the rear sight leaf is marked with a letter I.

The M59 was modified in 1966 to the Model 59/66 that has a permanently attached NATO spec 22mm diameter grenade launcher, gas cut off valve and flip up grenade sight. The attachment of the launcher tube to the barrel added 3.74 inches (95mm) to the weapon’s overall length. There are several variations of the grenade launcher tube configuration. Later tritium and/or phosphorus night sights were added and this variation is often referred to as the 59/66A1. The Yugoslavian SKS variants do not have chrome-lined barrels and chambers because the technology to apply it wasn’t available in that country during production. Manufacture of the 59/66 started in 1966 and lasted until 1970. A large number of the Yugo 59/66 rifles have been imported, many in new or like new condition. During 2003 the Yugo SKS carbines were advertised for as low as $89.

GUN TRUSTS, CORPORATIONS, CLEO SIGNATURE
WHAT REALLY HAPPENED?

As you are undoubtedly aware, the White House has launched yet another assault on firearms owners in general; and now the NFA community in particular. Many are livid over the fact that it appears as though NFATCA caused or asked for the changes discussed in the Executive Action presented by Vice President Joe Biden in a draft Notice of Proposed Rule Making (NPRM). The NFATCA shares the anger and venom of the firearms community in response to these proposed actions and rule-making efforts. Be clear: We did not ask for what the White House is trying to deliver, nor did we instigate these actions. Let’s take a look at how we got to this point.

The NFATCA began in the Bush administration and enjoyed the benefit of working with an ATF that was willing to engage in constructive dialogue. We understand and appreciate that many of you believe that ATF, the NFA and the rest of firearms regulation should be abolished and that “negotiating with the enemy” is abhorrent and traitorous. Advocating for the repeal of the NFA is a noble goal, but not something that most of this community have shown a willingness to fund. The NFATCA adopted the approach that we would seek to work with ATF on goals that we could achieve and engage ATF as willing and productive partners. That cooperative environment actually worked for many years, until our current President was elected and subsequently re-elected. Our cooperative resources within ATF still existed, but they became increasingly reluctant to engage in productive activity with us. We had action items in play with an ATF that was becoming more and more distant.

The NFATCA began its efforts to eliminate the Chief Law Enforcement Officer (CLEO) signature requirement on several NFA forms almost nine years ago. In 2009, ATF was reluctant to engage in a dialogue to address this issue and others that were considered to be important to the NFA and firearms communities. Although we had previously engaged in a productive and collaborative work environment, ATF’s hesitance forced us to retain counsel to file a formal petition to attempt to achieve meaningful discourse.

Once the petition was formally delivered, ATF began working with us on advancing the CLEO signature removal issue. We went through several rounds of clarification and patiently observed the effort moving back and forth between ATF and DOJ over a period of years. In early 2011, and again in 2012, ATF clearly demonstrated their intention to remove the CLEO signature requirement in RIN 1140-AA43, though they still had not consulted with us regarding the trust/corporate items. We awaited the formal rule-making process to begin. On August 28, 2013, the RIN was changed without notice. In addition, a lengthy draft of a proposed NPRM was released.

Our petition acknowledged the understanding that ATF was concerned about prohibited persons skirting background checks by utilizing trusts and corporate entities to purchase firearms. We had been warning people for years that ATF was going to shut down what was being called the “trust loophole” regarding unqualified people obtaining weapons, and that NFATCA was trying to mitigate the damage and get rid of the antiquated CLEO signature requirement as part of this negotiation. We sounded this clarion because ATF had clearly indicated that they wanted to discontinue it. NFATCA didn’t make this a problem or bring it to ATF’s attention; the people abusing the system did. ATF was already aware of it because they had such a massive increase in trust transfers, and they read the Internet boards, following the way people bragged about getting NFA weapons anonymously and advising each other how to do so. ATF is engaged with cases of prohibited persons who have acquired weapons through trusts and corporations without background checks. Some may point to the fact there have not been any violent crimes as a result of the background check “loophole,” but prohibited persons in possession of firearms is a crime in itself. ATF was in the untenable position of approving those transfers to prohibited persons. Something was absolutely going to change.

Class 3 dealers formed the method of using trusts back in 1993-1994, after consulting with lawyers and ATF counsel to circumvent local law enforcement who refused to sign off on purchases, in order to help the collectors in Dade County and Houston in particular. The dealers who engaged in discussions with ATF at the time made all of this possible, and for fifteen years this method worked very well. It was the Internet braggarts who created a problem for the general public, and now they’ve burned the bridge. Collectors are going to be inconvenienced, and Dealers’ sales are going to hurt due to the actions of a few individuals who have unlawfully cheated the system. Once again, the few abusers have caused a problem for all of us. The abusers of the trust situation set off ATF’s radar. If there is anger that should be displayed, it should be towards the people who abused the system and brought all of this to the attention of ATF and the Executive Branch. Is it right that we have restrictions on our constitutionally guaranteed RTKBA? No. Is there some magic wand that gets rid of all firearms laws tomorrow morning? No. Is there a regulatory agency we have to deal with if we want to own NFA firearms, with a stack of rules and regulations? Yes.

While the NFATCA has acknowledged in our petition that there is concern regarding prohibited persons receiving firearms without background checks via trusts and corporations, the draft NPRM does not reflect any discussions or negotiations we have had with the Federal Government. We did not support nor advocate for the efforts of the Executive Branch that were recently published as the proposed NPRM. The proposed NPRM is being used as a political expedient to address areas of negligible concern. The Executive Branch proposals unduly burden the law-abiding public, will restrain lawful commerce and bury an already overwhelmed agency with an administrative infrastructure that will not serve the public safety interest.

The NFATCA supports the elimination of the CLEO signature requirement. The NFATCA is willing to engage with DOJ/ATF and the Executive Branch to investigate reasonable, effective and manageable approaches to preventing prohibited persons from acquiring firearms. We cannot and will not support the NPRM in its current form. Unfortunately, it does not appear as though ATF, the DOJ or this administration wishes to enter into a constructive dialogue. As a result, the NFATCA will adopt a much more aggressive stance. We are currently soliciting resources to mount an offensive on multiple fronts:

• A legal review and dissection of the draft NPRM.
• Soliciting information regarding the costs of such an effort that would prohibit that level of spending.
• A legal counter-offensive to the draft NPRM via petition or other suitable means.
• Solicitation of Congressional inquiry.
• Creation of a massive grassroots effort to combat the NPRM, should it actually be published in the Federal Register.

Many of the existing and proposed gun laws are already unconstitutional in our eyes. However, they are the law of the land right now, and we have to fight them. We have to fight hard to win, and we’re not better off if we simply sit back and complain and impotently shake our fists in the air because we feel we are holy and right. We are better off engaging with the regulatory agency through whatever effective means can be mounted and try to pre-empt the negative application of regulations, while working towards turning the tide that is against us on the larger scale. We don’t have many public friends in Congress. There is some support behind the scenes, but no one who’ll currently vote to rescind 922(o) or repeal the NFA. As for the courts, Heller should have been 9-0 in our favor but it was 5-4 as a win, and two of the five said, “Wait, this doesn’t have anything to do with machine guns, does it?” There’s no guarantee that the U.S. Supreme Court will rule in favor of constitutionality, so the current field of battle in which we can compete is regulatory.

If you look at the record, you’ll see that we’ve accomplished a lot. For two years running, we had gained traction and had the CLEO signature almost gone. ATF started the action on the trusts in 2008 or 2009; we found out and engaged them on it. Because it took so long, the White House finally became aware of it and is now using it as yet another public gun control initiative that Obama and Biden think they can just mandate. Remember, it’s not done yet. It has to go through Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) review, which could be completed by November. Then, it must withstand mandatory public comment after it is published in the Federal Register, if it is actually published. If we muster a lot of rational comment on why this is harmful and getting rid of CLEO is good, and we use some strong allies in the background, we have a chance to turn that around – perhaps enough to get rid of CLEO along the way.

Now it is time to do something. We’d get farther faster if we had stronger support in the community to fight these issues. We’ve been asking for help on this, for the public to join the NFATCA and become active. We didn’t receive much help, yet managed to persevere and keep fighting. I would suggest that you not just hand this administration a win by allowing them to continue to keep us divided. We will not sit on our hands. We will not sit back and let the White House win without a fight. That being said, the choices are obvious: You can sit back and criticize, or you can join in the fight. Today we are mustering support from sister organizations that believe in the cause and want to help. As many of you have heard me say over and over again, united we stand, divided we fall. Come stand with the NFATCA and write to your elected representatives and your state delegates. Join the crowd of people, like the NFATCA, that absolutely will not stand for this administration’s efforts.

The finish has come a long way since then. One of the companies that has led the development of nickel boron finish is WMD Guns of Stuart, Florida. The company opened its doors in 2011 and was formed by a cadre of technologists and gunsmiths with the goal of being an advanced coating company for firearms with the goal of providing consumers with access to high performance coatings. WMD provides high reliability coated products, coats all types of consumer firearms, and coats components for OEMs. This triad of business sectors indeed allows multiple avenues of access to consumers, agencies and manufacturers.

WMD Guns has several proprietary finishes. The first they call NiB-X coating. This is an extreme use nickel boron coating. It has a hardness of 70 Rockwell and a CoF of .08. This coating can be applied to all ferrous and non ferrous alloys except magnesium, providing a hard, lubricious surface to complex geometries. NiB-X conforms to material standards ASTM B607 and AMS2433C and is applied in a NADCAP accredited facility (highest process control standard achievable in the aerospace sector). The advantage to this finish is it is harder than Tennifer, Melonite, nickel Teflon and hard chrome. It is environmentally corrosion resistant and very lubricious. The finish is easy to clean, requires less maintenance and offers higher reliability and enhanced performance. The second is Nitromet, which is a high performance salt bath nitro carburizing surface treatment that conforms to AMS 2753 (e.g. Melonite, Tennifer). It provides a surface hardness of 55 Rockwell, added corrosion protection and uniform black color. It adds no dimension to the surface since it is a diffusion process. WMD also offers nickel, nickel Teflon and zinc nickel coatings. WMD Guns provides coating services using these technologies to several OEM in the industry.

In 2013, WMG Guns released their flagship product highlighting the optimized use of these technologies, the BEAST AR-15 rifle. This rifle is completely coated in NiB-X nickel boron finish, resulting in a flat dark earth color finish. The rifle uses a combination of the NiB-X as well as the Nitromet coatings. The BEAST that was provided as a test and evaluation rifle was provided with a flat dark earth Molding Solutions stock and a flat dark earth standard A2-style pistol grip. The upper and lower receivers as well as the Nordic Comp free float rail are coated in NiB-X. The charging handle and extended latch are coated as well. All of the fire control controls (magazine catch assembly, bolt catch assembly and selector lever) have also been NiB-X coated. The pivot, takedown and hammer and trigger pins are still black.

The 5.56 NATO 16-inch barrel is manufactured by Ballistic Advantage and it has a Mil-Spec 1/7 inch right hand twist capable of stabilizing projectiles from 55 grains to 80 grains in weight. The barrel extension and external surface of the barrel are NiB-X coated while the inside of the bore and chamber are processed with Nitromet. The Nitromet is claimed to be much harder than chrome improving barrel life. The gas tube is also coated in Nitromet. The muzzle is equipped with Tac-Grip Muscle Compensator, which has also been NiB-X coated. Even the magazine was NiB-X coated.

Another very interesting feature is the ACOG scope that was provided with the rifle. The ACOG scope is manufactured from the same 7075 T6 aircraft aluminum as the receivers of the rifle. The optic body was NiB-X coated as well. This does not come with the rifle, but it can be purchased from Trijicon or their dealers, as they are now in production with the NiB ACOG. The rifle also comes with a very high quality black carrying case.

The only additional thing tested with the rifle was the new 3rd generation M3 Magpul PMags. This is the newest generation in the evolution of what this author feels is the best magazine available anywhere for this platform. The new magazines have a flat floor plate allowing easier stacking in a magazine pouch. The new M3 features a stainless steel magazine spring, four-way anti tilt follower, pop-off Impact/Dust Cover and tool-less disassembly for cleaning. The low profile ribs and aggressive front and rear texture provide positive control of the magazine helping with compatibility of double and triple magazine pouches. The easy to disassemble standard flared floor plate provides drop protection and aids extraction from the magazine pouch. A paint pen dot matrix has been added to the bottom panel of the magazine body for easy marking by the end user for magazine identification. The geometry of the M3 makes it compatible with not standard M16/M4-type magazine wells including the HK416, M27 IAR, British SA80 and FN SCAR. The M3 incorporates a new material technology and manufacturing process which increases strength and durability in critical areas.

The ammunition tested in the BEAST was standard U.S. issue M855 ball ammunition. The weather conditions were a scorching 110º day in the desert outside of Las Vegas. There were 140 rounds put through the rifle. No lubricant was added. There were no malfunctions of any sort with the PMags or the aluminum one provided with the rifle. The performance of the Tac-Grip Muzzle Compensator was excellent. Shooting the rifle it was easy to see that it made a big difference on being able to get off quick and accurate follow up shots. Factory claims of up to 40% reduction in recoil sounds about right. The range was 100 yards and the average group was approximately 2 to 3 inches. The range was not ideal conditions with the heat and high winds. The M855 ball is not the most accurate of ammunition but it was all that was available at the time we had the rifle to test. Under proper weather conditions and proper match ammunition I would expect the rifle would perform as advertised. The BEAST has a MSRP of $2,199, which is not much more than the average top tier AR rifle MSRP.

Other products in the WMD suite of products includes a drop in NiB-X 5.56 Bolt Carrier Group, an NiB-X .308 Bolt Carrier Group, an NiB-X .22 Long Rifle conversion kit for AR-15 platforms (dubbed the “Little Beast”) and numerous AR-15 platform parts that are NiB-X and/or Nitromet finished.

The WMD Guns NiB-X 5.56 Bolt carrier Group features a Mil-Spec bolt manufactured from Carpenter 158 case hardened steel, shot peened and then magnetic particle inspected. Standard Mil-Spec gas rings are used. They claim the NiB-X coating is 40% more wear resistant than chrome plating. The extractor is coated with NiB-X and uses a heavy duty extractor spring with a black buffer. The bolt carrier is made from 8620 material, heat treated and case hardened. Their manufacturing tolerances on the inside are tightly controlled. The NiB-X coating gives the carrier additional durability and ease of cleaning. The gas key, which is a very critical component, is hardened to U.S. GI specifications and attached using grade 8 hardened fasteners. Permatex No.3D Aviation Form a gasket Type III Sealing Compound per Mil-S-45180 used on assembly. The key is NiB-X coated and is also staked as per military specification. Both the cam pin and hammer (available in both semi and auto configuration) are coated in NiB-X. They sell drop in bolt carrier groups for an MSRP of $220 or include a NiB-X coated hammer for an MSRP of $235.

The WMD Guns 7.62x51mm/.308 NiB-X Bolt Carrier Group was recently released with an MSRP of $350 and has the potential to lead to a fully coated “Big BEAST” in the future. The NiB-X coated .22 Long Rifle conversion kit for the AR-15 is called the Little BEAST. It can be used in any quality AR-platform rifle and drops in within 20 seconds. The Little BEAST comes with a Black Dog 25-round magazine with stainless steel lips for durability and has an MSRP of $250.

Another unique service that WMD offers is to refinish consumer, dealer and Agency firearms with NiB-X and/or Nitromet. They have a staff of gunsmiths that will disassemble, coat and reassemble your weapons. The quality of work and added performance of the surface treatments led the FBI to convert their bolt carrier groups to NiB-X. Other law enforcement agencies are following suit to upgrade their operators’ weapons.

The BEAST is a high quality rifle offering a unique blend of technology. WMD Guns has taken the high quality components and mated them with their experience in advanced coatings. You can expect more offering from this company in the future but you can always send your parts in to them to coat with NiB-X. They offer a lifetime warranty on their proprietary finishes.

This well-run event is put on by the members of ARPC, many of whom volunteer to serve as range officers during the two days. At any given time, there are approximately 25 range officers wearing orange vests all down the line ensuring complete safety. This is vital, as many of the shooters are trying full auto for the first time. Including set-up and clean-up, there are perhaps 70 or more volunteers helping out. Depending on the weather, the attendance ranges from 1,200 to 1,800 visitors each year. The entrance fee is $10 per day and this allows access to the event as a spectator and shooter. Each vendor has signs posted stating the cost per magazine or belt of ammo for each gun they rent. Naturally prices vary greatly depending on ammunition, but most rifle calibers average about one dollar per round. The mighty .50 BMG round was a fair bit more, at $6 or $8 per shot. In light of the recent panic buying and hoarding of ammo in the past months driving up the cost of ammo to record highs, these prices are not unreasonable.

Besides the usual water jugs and balloons, they brought in several old cars from a local auto wrecker. These seemed to attract a lot of attention. Tannerite explosive targets are occasionally set out at the 100 yard line, or beyond. At least once during the event, a 20 pound package of Tannerite was detonated at the 200 yard line.

ARPC used to run a Fall shoot as well, but it had to be cancelled several times due to the extreme fire danger after a long hot summer. Since 2006, there has only been a Spring shoot, always on the third weekend of May.

This event attracts enthusiasts from across the western states, and beyond. One notable full auto collector from Idaho is Dominic Spediacci, who had an astounding array of belt feds on the line on Sunday. Among the treasures he brought were an M1919A6, an M1918 BAR, a Westinghouse-made water-cooled M1917 (rechambered to 8×57), an M1917 Marlin, a Colt-Browning M1895 “Potato digger, and a Frigidaire-made water-cooled M2 .50 BMG. The .50 was mounted on a very rare M3 anti-aircraft pedestal mount, (Mount, M3AA, .50 cal., Water Cooled) commonly referred to as the “Tora Tora” mount, and was fed by the correct 200 round “tombstone” drum magazine. It also had the matching hand-cranked water pump (Chest, Water, Caliber .50, M3). His guns on display would put quite a few military museums to shame. He happened to mention that he had to leave a few others at home, including a 1914 Hotchkiss French heavy machine gun, a 1915 Colt Vickers and a 1917 Marlin piston operated potato digger. He also brought along a 1928 Thompson for friend’s kids to shoot.

Dominic also brought an equally impressive quantity of ammo to feed his toys. This included 2,200 linked rounds of .50 BMG, approx. 6,000 rounds of 8×57 on cloth Browning belts, and 3,000 rounds of .30-06 on belts and in BAR mags, and 1,000 rounds of .45 ACP for the Thompson. By the end of Sunday afternoon, he had turned it into a rather big pile of brass, links, and empty belts. It is truly something to see 200 rounds of .50 BMG go in one continuous burst. He did so several times during the day. Dominic managed to actually saw one car in half with an intense barrage of fire.

Another vendor, Todd Alden, had an intriguing looking item. It was a hand cranked multi barrel gun named Gunzilla, made by Red Jacket Firearms (Yes, the Sons of Guns guys) with another manufacturer, from two Masterpiece Arms 971 guns somehow tied together. Although it appears to have six barrels, only two actually fire. It feeds from two Suomi 71 round drum mags. It is surprising how fast a drum of ammo can be cranked through it. Customers put about 3,000 rounds through it during the event. Todd plans on fitting a laser pointer to one of the false barrels soon, to light up the smoke created by the two real barrels.

On Sunday afternoon, David Statham brought his Viet Nam era OH-6A helicopter. Not just as transportation, but to strafe the targets. Again, the wrecked cars seemed to receive most of the attention. The ‘copter was built in 1967, and used in VN from 1968-72. It was actually shot down twice, and rebuilt twice. It has lots of ground fire damage evidence still, in the form of small patches on the fuselage. David claims that no one died in it though. For the flying demonstration, the rear gunner was Mike Gardner, co-owner of Halo Manufacturing, Eugene, OR, firing an M60. In the front passenger seat was Matt Stoner, owner of Stoner Arms, Keizer, OR. Matt was firing an RPD-44. This demonstration was a real treat for the spectators, and received quite a cheer afterwards. Stoner Arms also had two tables of various guns for rent, and a full staff overseeing it all.

Every so often a cease-fire was called, in order to reset targets. Usually, upon the range going hot again, there would be a “Rolling thunder,” much like a Mad Minute mass burst of fire. However, on several occasions, the range director would call for suppressed guns only. This allowed spectators to see and hear just how effective a good suppressor can be. Certainly there is some noise created, but a normal conversation could be had just behind the firing line without ear protection on; very civil, indeed.

At the other end of the sonic spectrum was Chuck Riggs, a class 3 dealer from Wasco OR, with his “Obnoxinator.” This is an HK-51K with a 5 inch barrel and a copy of the JP Enterprises muzzle brake. Thunderously loud only begins to describe this thing. Chuck mentioned that all he has to do is fire a mag himself and right away there is a crowd of people wanting to rent his gun and make their own thunder. He estimates about 2,500 rounds of .308 went through his gun over the two days.

Albany has a very friendly, West Coast feel to it. This author/photographer really appreciated being able to stand alongside a friend as he shot, rather than being confined well back. As long as all safety issues are complied with, the range offers are quite willing to accommodate such requests. Dominic Spediacci is a veteran of several large MG shoots and speaks highly of Albany. “Albany is one of the bigger shoots out on the west coast, but not as big as Knob Creek or Big Sandy (Wikieup, AZ). However it is well thought out, hosted and staffed. The people are always nice and courteous at these shoots. The nice thing about Albany is you don’t have a waiting list to shoot that is booked out for years on end like some other shoots.” Also, it is well attended by women, children, and families. This author noted several well supervised youngsters on the firing line.

Next year’s shoot will be the 25th anniversary, and plans are underway to have some special treats. As always, it will be held on the third weekend of May (May 17 and 18, 2014), one week after Mother’s Day, and one week prior to Memorial Day.

Albany Rifle and Pistol Club
29999 Saddle Butte Rd.
Shedd, OR 97377
(541) 491-3755

AK-47 The Grim Reaper
(Second edition)
By Frank Iannamico
Chipotle Publishing
631 N. Stephanie St. #372
Henderson, NV 89014

Reviewed by Christopher R. Bartocci

This is a very large and thorough book on the history of the AK-47 and all its facets. There are 1,086 pages of information and a large number of high quality detailed photographs of various weapons and military photographs. This is the second edition of the AK-47 The Grim Reaper.

The first edition was published in 2008 and takes the reader through the development of the assault rifle, manufacturers in Russia, detailed looks at the 1st-3rd generation AK-47 rifles, AKM update, AK-74 family of weapons, AK-100 series, other Kalashnikov designs, Warsaw Pact countries manufacturing AK-type rifles, AK-derivatives, AK comes to America, made in USA AK-47 rifles, magazine and ammunition variations. The second edition greatly enhances the reader’s knowledge by the addition of many detailed photographs of various models, additional information and updated information of the current status of this family of weapons.

• The book begins with Chapter 1 on the development of the modern day assault rifle with discussion of the U.S. Army Weapons Command Research & Engineering Directorate Small Arms System Laboratory testing on the AK-47 rifle from experience in Vietnam. It also parallels the development of the AK-47 with parallel to U.S. small arms development and ammunition development. Included are detailed historical descriptions of the German Sturmgewehr and its 7.92x33mm intermediate round and its influence on Kalashnikov’s design as well as the introduction to Kalashnikov’s story of his development of the rifle and its trail to the hands of the Soviet soldier.
• Chapter 2 gives an introduction to the numerous Russian weapons factories spread out over the vast lands of the former Soviet Union. The arsenal marks are shown and how to identify the weapon with the factory that produced it. The second edition adds photographs of current manufacturing of the rifle.
• Chapter 3 begins the analysis of the developmental history of the AK47. There are thorough descriptions and photographs of the first, second and third generation rifles. The second edition offers more detailed photographs of the first and second generation rifles to help the reader understand how they were built and what the exact differences are. Attention is given to every detail and every change. This includes both fixed and underfold stock variations of all three generations of the rifle.
• Chapter 4 introduces the AKM and its derivatives. All changes are documented on the 3rd generation machined receivers’ transformation into the 2.5 pound less stamped AKM rifle. Many detailed photographs and drawings clearly define the changes that make up the AKM.
• Chapter 5 documents the development and history of the small caliber 5.45x39mm cartridge and the new AK-74 which would eventually replace the AK-47/AKM family of weapons in the Soviet Army. The AK-74 has gone through many incremental changes and continues to this very day. Through this chapter the reader will see the advancements in Soviet/Russian manufacturing capabilities.
• Chapter 6 takes the reader through the latest developments in the AK-series of rifles, the AK-100 Series. Designed for export use, the rifle goes through an update in furniture as well as the introduction of rifles that will fire the NATO 5.56x45mm cartridge. Additional gas systems, stocks and barrels are introduced. The end of this chapter also introduces and describes in detail the AN-94 rifle, the rifle that was suppose to replace the AK-74.
• Chapter 7 shows other Kalashnikov developed weapons including the Bizon submachine gun, RPK, RPKS, RPK-74, RPKS-74, PK, PKM and SVD.
• Chapter 8 documents the Warsaw Pact countries that the Soviet Union set up manufacturing facilities in their country to produce the array of Kalashnikov weapons. Russia states now that many of the rifles produced are illegal clones that were not licensed by Russia for the use of their technical data. The proliferation of sales throughout all these former Warsaw Pact countries have hurt Russian companies from selling the rifle that originated with them. This chapter details description of all of the countries the Soviet Union licensed manufacturing rights to the AK-47 family of weapons and their variations. There are significant numbers of new photographs added to this chapter from the first edition.
• Chapter 9 discusses production of AK-type rifles outside of the former Warsaw Pact countries – one of the largest being China. China has many different variations of the AK-type rifle and sold them abroad in large numbers. Egypt is another large producer. Greatly expanded information about AK-production in Iraq including many new photographs not found in the first edition. Also included are North Korea, Pakistan-Khyber Pass-Afghanistan, Yugoslavia/Serbia and Croatia.
• Chapter 10 goes into Kalashnikov design derivatives which are rifles that closely copy or borrow a significant number of features from the design. These countries include Czechoslovakia, Finland Valmet rifles, Israeli Galil and South African R-4 series.
• Chapter 11 takes the reader through the AK introduction to the American market with the history of the imported sporting rifles into the U.S. starting with the Finish Valmet and Egyptian Maadi versions. Additionally, for all the “Wolverines!” fans out there, the second edition gives the historical details of the rifles that were used in the movie Red Dawn. The introduction of Chinese rifles to the U.S. market was vast and in different variations, which are all documented and photographed in the book. Descriptions and photographs follow with Hungarian and Yugoslavian sporting versions of the AK rifle.
• Chapter 12 marks the dark days of the Assault Weapon Ban. This marked the 1989 importation ban and all the legalities of assembling post ban rifles with pre-ban configuration parts. Also included is the discussion of all the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act, The 1994 Assault Weapon Ban and its sunset in 2004. Descriptions and photographs of the numerous imported AK-type rifles are contained in this chapter.
• Chapter 13 chronicles AK’s that are made in the USA. Many are American made receivers built up with foreign parts kits. Many American companies are listed who either manufacture or modify different variations of the rifles mixing in American made parts.
• Chapter 14 delves into the magazine variations of all generations and all caliber AK-type rifles with detailed photos and descriptions of the magazines made in numerous countries.
• Chapter 15 gives detailed descriptions of ammunition. This will include identification of ammunition types as well as the arsenals in which they were manufactured. This covers both 7.62x39mm and 5.45x39mm.
• Chapter 16 gives a collectors description of accouterments including bayonets, grenade launchers, rifle grenades, sound suppressors, night vision, scopes, carrying cases, cleaning kits, blank firing adapters, magazine pouches and slings

This book is a must have for any student of the AK-family of weapons. This book also would be well put to use by law enforcement and crime laboratory reference libraries where identification of these rifles and accessories are needed. There has never been a more thorough study of the AK-series ever put in print. For those who already have the first edition, it is well worth upgrading to the second. There is significantly enough material added to make it worthwhile. The photographs are of the highest quality and no stone is left unturned.

This book may be purchased directly from Chipotle Publishing for $69.95 plus shipping at www.smallarmsoftheworld.com, on Amazon.com, or at your local bookseller.

A Dark History

Stinger is a term that has been associated with pen guns for decades. The British Special Operations Executive (SOE) was established in July of 1940 under the ultimate command of Dr. Hugh Dalton, the English Minister of Economic Warfare. The mission of the SOE was to take the fight to the Nazis in the occupied territories whether that be repatriation of downed fliers, sabotage, or, on occasion, assassination. The SOE operated a weapons research facility out of Welywn Garden near London where engineers developed weapons for the SOE’s 5,000 clandestine operatives that were effective, transportable, and concealable. These weapons included some of the earliest effective suppressed firearms, collapsible crossbows, and guns designed to operate as parts of belts, gloves, pipes, or cigarettes. Designers at this facility also produced a variety of pen guns.

The typical pen gun of the era fired a 6.35mm cartridge and could still pass for a writing instrument in dim light. One particular version was common enough to be type-classified as the T-2 and fired a .22 short cartridge. This weapon was disposable and could be concealed in the palm of your hand.

The Military Armament Corporation, the same folks who brought us the MAC series of submachine guns designed by Gordon Ingram, produced pen guns that sported the name Stinger in the early 70s. Interestingly, their Stingers could be had with matching sound suppressors. These weapons were well-made and lethal though records of any operational use are understandably sketchy. The few Stingers that were sold commercially during that time went for $36 each new.

What Does ATF Think of All This?

Original Stinger pen guns fall under the purview of the National Firearms Act in the category of “Any Other Weapon,” a sort of catch-all heading that categorizes weapons such as cane guns, umbrella guns, and purpose-built handgun-sized shotguns. While the paperwork involved in purchasing one of these weapons is identical to that required to own a suppressor, machine gun, or short-barreled rifle or shotgun, the transfer tax is a paltry $5.

The more contemporary Stinger circumvents the NFA categorizations brilliantly. Originally marketed by the Stinger Manufacturing Company of Sault St. Marie, Michigan, today’s Stinger rides in your pocket just as would a linear writing instrument but deploys into a more familiar angular handgun shape prior to firing. The accompanying literature claims that the weapon can be deployed in about two seconds and actual hands-on experience has born that out.

It should be noted that I have a degree in Mechanical Engineering and have spent my entire adult life immersed in guns and similar mechanical contrivances. Despite this, and with the factory manual at my fingertips, it took me nearly an hour of fiddling to get to the point where I could consistently deploy, fire, recock, and stow my Stinger pen gun without frustrating myself. In their defense, however, the Stinger is the archetypal last-ditch weapon. The Stinger is the tool you use when the alternative is bare hands and foul language.

Deploying and firing the gun is not challenging and this process is fairly intuitive. However, if someone is trying to reload the piece tactically for a follow-up shot then something has obviously gone desperately wrong.

How Does It Shoot?

The rifled barrel of the Stinger is two inches long and the gun has no sights. No one will be shooting the Camp Perry matches with this rascal. However, the workmanship, fit, and finish on the piece are superb and one really would not want to be downrange from it in an up close and personal confrontation. Trigger pull is adequately crisp and positive though recoil is, believe it or not, a bit attention-getting even in .22 Long Rifle. I can consistently keep my rounds on a pie plate on a pleasant day at the range out to about ten feet. Considering the piece really is designed to be used at contact ranges this is adequate.

Just How Do You Make It Work?

The Stinger is legitimately elegant mechanically. As a safety mechanism it incorporates a floating breech that cams into position with manipulation of the safety ring. This mechanism only allows the firing pin to contact the cartridge when the pistol is deployed into its angular configuration and the safety ring is rotated. In practice this makes for an unusual manual of arms.

Loading is straightforward with a gun that is cocked and in its pen configuration. The operator simply unscrews the barrel, drops in a cartridge, and screws the barrel back in place. Deploying the weapon for firing is simple. Grasping the opposite ends of the gun the operator extends the two halves and pivots the toggle joint in its center before allowing the two halves to settle back into each other at a mechanically-determined angle due to spring tension within the body of the piece. This movement deploys the trigger, a simple flat steel appendage, from the body of the gun. This also engages a tab on the barrel that prevents its removal until the gun is retracted back into its linear pen configuration. The shooter then rotates the safety ring slightly clockwise as viewed by the firer (the only direction it will turn) until the ring finds its natural detent position. Pressure on the trigger then fires the gun.

At this point the barrel is locked in place and cannot be removed for reloading. This requires cycling the action twice to reset the safety, release the barrel for removal, stow the trigger, and recock the firing mechanism. While this is counter-intuitive, it does indeed require two complete iterations of this exercise to release the mechanism completely. As mentioned, it is complicated.

The Bottom Line

Anyone interested in acquiring one of these little marvels should do so with reasonable expectations. It is mechanically brilliant. Its designers built this device in such a way as to allow it to be sold in the U.S. as a conventional title I firearm while still facilitating open carry as though it was a writing instrument. It also incorporates sufficient mechanical safety features as to make it safe to carry loaded and retracted in one’s shirt pocket. Herein lies the problem. To design a weapon that will meet these requirements yet still have any hope of succeeding in today’s hyper-litigious environment makes it mechanically cumbersome. As such, it really is only an appropriate piece for the advanced shooter or collector who will take his time and study the mechanism.

Stingers can be tough to find these days. Originally produced in both .22 LR and .25 ACP versions, both have been out of production for some time. There have even been a couple of “sniper” versions produced with long barrels and telescopic sights. This sounds to me like the fruits of a gifted designer with some proper machine tools and too much free time.

Additionally, there was a fairly high profile incident wherein a rap artist who was said to be intoxicated at the time was playing with a Stinger at a party and accidentally killed himself. In a political environment wherein it is a definitive uphill struggle to convince anyone but the most ardent gun enthusiast that a pen gun of any sort may be legally owned and carried, this makes for some unique marketing challenges. For the right person with the right inclinations and a little patience, however, finding a Stinger at a gun show or local gun shop can add a useful and fascinating tool to the right collection.

Daniel Defense’s thought process was to create a lightweight, simple to operate AR rifle similar to Eugene Stoner’s original concept. This counter-intuitive approach involved simplifying it away from current trends. AR designs consisting of heavy barrels and bloated full-length four-sided Picatinny rails adorned with lights, lasers, vertical forward grips and other accessories were abandoned in favor of simple contemporary components of the highest quality put together by qualified personnel one at a time ensuring maximum quality control.

It is no secret that the AR is not only the best selling civilian and law enforcement rifle in the U.S., but also gaining popularity around the world with the U.S. equipping/training so many armed entities. This has caused many manufacturers to jump on the AR bandwagon in recent years by offering their versions. The Daniel Defense’s operating philosophy is captured in its motto of “Lighter, Stronger, Better…” This is also how Daniel Defense strives to separate themselves from the rest of the AR field. The DD M4 V1 LW typifies this by weighing in at 6.8 pounds while still featuring a full length Daniel Defense DDM4 quad rail. This is outstanding considering a rail is present as well as other features that are typically avoided in other builder’s efforts when attempting a lightweight AR. A slim 16 inch 1:7 twist hammer forged barrel is affixed with a Daniel Defense flash hider. Length of the rifle is 36 inches with stock extended and 32.5 inches collapsed. The Daniel Defense upper and lower receivers are forged from 7075 aluminum upper and then hardcoat anodized. A single-stage trigger is standard with M4 feed ramps machined into the receiver and the barrel extension. A Magpul MOE adjustable buttstock is fitted to the V1 LW. The mil-spec upper and lower receivers are combined with a 5.56mm chamber and direct gas impingement operating system. The gas system of the DD M4 V1 LW is carbine length.

If you want it done right, do it yourself. This might be the unofficial motto for all Daniel Defense endeavors since arriving on the AR scene. The Daniel Defense DD M4 V1 LW model evaluated herein is an embodiment of this statement. Since Daniel Defense’s start in 2000, the size of the company has doubled and sometimes tripled every year. As the company stands currently, it has over 100 employees and is located in a 38,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Black Creek, GA with another recently opened site across the river in South Carolina. Marty Daniel decided in 2000 that the AR market was ripe for someone to introduce quality aftermarket accessories such as sling adaptor, railed forends, etc. This is probably hard to fathom for the current 2013 situation where there are a plethora of AR products available. It was only a small concept leap before Daniel Defense was making complete AR rifles starting in early 2009.

Marty Daniel has given clear perspective on how he wants to run his business. During a tour of the Black Creek facility, Marty explained the importance of customer service in the Daniel Defense mindset. This customer service philosophy is reinforced by their pride in their product reflected by producing much of their ARs in-house. They are not an AR parts assembler who then stamps their name on a weapon made from someone else’s components. In fact, Daniel Defense is a major supplier of OEM parts and accessories for many of the AR brands on the market. (It was interesting to see what items were shipping out from Daniel Defense to other brands – though a gentleman’s agreement prohibits detailing.) This in-house production allows Daniel Defense a high degree of quality control and frees them up from over reliance of suppliers. They make their own barrels, upper receivers, lower receivers, receiver extensions, bolt carriers, bolts, carrier keys, gas tubes, etc. Every bolt is proofed and magnetic-particle inspected to guarantee reliable performance. Daniel Defense even goes so far as to produce their own lower parts kits composed of the trigger assembly and a bunch of tiny parts and pins. When a company is willing to produce their own pins for their rifles, it’s a safe bet that they’re obsessed with turning out a quality rifle. Daniel Defense has invested heavily into production capability such as CNC machinery, robotics, and hammer forging barrel production. A walk around the Black Creek facility makes this obvious while keeping in mind what the 90,000+sf South Carolina plant must represent in terms of capital investment from Daniel’s corporate leadership.

A key component to the Daniel Defense AR reputation for accuracy is the Chrome Moly Vanadium steel cold-hammer forged barrel produced in house. The barrel is mil-spec phosphate coated. It is worth exploring Daniel Defense barrel production as a vehicle to explore what sets their rifles apart from others in the market. The majority of ARs sold feature button-rifled barrels. Button rifled barrels can be some of the most accurate barrels made or some of the most economical barrels made depending on specific methods utilized in production. The AR market is very competitive currently with multiple brands competing for consumer dollars; thus price point is extremely important with accuracy and durability taking a secondary position with some makes/models. Compared to button rifled barrels, the cold hammer forged method used by Daniel Defense is difficult and expensive to manufacture with the resultant benefit of durability and longevity. As witnessed on the Black Creek factory floor, a hammer-forged barrel starts its life as a short steel blank with a hole drilled down its center. The blank is threaded over a piece of hardened steel mandrel that is the exact dimensions of the rifle’s bore. Big hammers then pound the blank onto and around the mandrel until the barrel is 16 inches long (or whatever is specified) and has the appropriate contour. The process makes for a very dense barrel that is ideally suited to a high round count carbine. The machinery doing this work has been installed on vibration dampening flooring and isolation springs so as not to impact other delicate machinery surrounding it. Daniel Defense technicians follow detailed proprietary quality control methods with each barrel produced.

To wring the most out of the M4 V1 LW, multiple optics were used in testing. A Leupold Mk4 3.5-10x was employed to ascertain the true accuracy potential. The optics most typically intended to be left on the V1 LW after accuracy testing would be a non-magnified type. The V1 LW was tested with Trijicon’s red dot optic the SRS (Sealed Reflex Sight). The 3.75 inch long Trijicon SRS features 1.75 MOA adjustable intensity red dot. The 28 mm aperture combined with 38 mm objective lens with only minimal housing between the two translates into the SRS providing a relatively large field of view as well as serving to eliminate the tube effect sometimes encountered with red dot optics. The SRS uses a solar panel to supplement the AA battery when in sunlight providing 3 years of run time. The Trijicon SRS weighs 15 ounces including battery and mount. The ability to control the SRS dot intensity is an important asset related to the SRS allowing the user to tailor brightness to user preference. The Trijicon SRS offers the capability to engage multiple targets in rapid sequence compared to iron sights, while at the same time providing adequate accuracy out to a couple hundred yards. As many “maturing” shooters can attest to the single focus plane is easier to shoot accurately than coordinating front and rear sights. The 5.56/.223’s flat trajectory aids in making center mass hits out to 300 yards without having to compensate excessively for bullet drop.

Ammunition tested with the DD M4 V1 LW was a combination of Black Hills Ammunition loads, multiple Hornady TAP loads and Winchester 55gr FMJ. The V1 LW kept all loads tested under 2 inches at 100 yards with Black Hills 69gr Match producing MOA groups out to 200 yards. This accuracy level justifies considering mounting a magnified optic such as the Trijicon ACOG or Leupold’s adjustable power Mk 4 CQ/T depending on intended mission. Overall, the accuracy level was more than acceptable considering the barrel’s profile. Accuracy test protocol consisted of three five-shot groups with each ammunition type. Group sizes were averaged. Velocity figures ranged from 2,700 feet per second to 2,950 feet per second over Shooting Chrony chronograph. Most bulk range firing utilized the Black Hills Ammunition 55gr FMJ load.

The V1 LW was tested with a variety of magazines including the 3rd Generation Magpul PMAG AR-15 magazine. The next generation PMAG 30 GEN M3 Window is a 30-round 5.56mm polymer magazine for AR-15/M4 compatible weapons that feature transparent windows to allow rapid visual identification of approximate number of rounds remaining. The Magpul GEN M3 PMAG incorporates new material technology and manufacturing processes for enhanced strength, durability, and reliability to exceed rigorous military performance specifications. Magpul introduced the 3rd Gen AR-15 magazine with modified internal and external geometry permitting operation with a wide range of non Colt spec platforms such as the HK 416, M27 IAR, British SA 80, and FN SCAR MK 16/16S. A redesigned bolt catch notch in the rear of the magazine provides increased bolt catch clearance, while an over-travel stop on the spine helps ensure the magazine will not over-insert on compatible weapons.

The Daniel Defense M4 V1 LW was evaluated at Echo Valley Training Center (EVTC). The V1 LW rifle showed its true promise by performing not only within the multiple 100 yard bays at EVTC firing from barricades and engaging targets, but also back at the prepared firing position line with targets placed out to 300 yards. Numerous drills were run involving magazine changes and moving between barricades simulating cover. A Mayflower Research & Consulting LLC LE/Active shooter chest rig carried four magazines during range evaluations. Steel silhouettes were situated randomly from 20 yards to 110 yards on EVTC Range #2. The Daniel Defense V1 LW and Trijicon SRS red dot made short work of striking various targets in quick fashion.

The V1 LW was purposely neglected in terms of cleaning over the course of the range evaluation. Cleaning methods for the Daniel Defense rifle will be familiar to anyone with a modicum of experience with the AR-15. Timing worked out to allow me to utilize the V1 LW in a 3-day Graham Combat course further pushing the V1 LW in terms of performance. The svelte V1 LW was much appreciated for its handling around vehicles and barricades during training scenarios. Several of the more dynamic drills experienced during the T&E showed the Daniel Defense M4 V1 LW at its best; unrelenting reliability even when scorching hot after multiple magazines fired consecutively. Combining range T&E and the Graham Combat course, the Daniel Defense V1 LW had 1,600 rounds fired through it for this evaluation. A High Speed Gear patrol belt equipped with their TACO magazine pouches was used to support the M4 V1 LW for both range T&E and Graham Combat course. Nothing is as personal as gear for holding magazines and other items at locations that become instinctual after countless training evolutions. Several common themes became apparent during the Graham Combat course. The importance of having an ergonomic rifle in terms of mounting to the shoulder quickly while maintaining sight picture became apparent when running and gunning quickly. Another point was a quick handling rifle able to react to dynamic unexpected situations and put rounds downrange accurately and rapidly. The Daniel Defense V1 LW delivered very well in these two aspects while at the same time providing solid reliability and a high degree of accuracy.

There are a plethora of AR style rifles vying for consumer attention albeit individuals, departments, or other entities. The Daniel Defense M4 V1 LW is worthy of consideration considering the attention to detail and quality of materials used in its manufacture. The cliché of “buy right the first time” comes to mind with the DD M4 V1 LW being a good example.

Sites of Interest

Daniel Defense
101 Warfighter Way
Black Creek, GA 31308
www.danieldefense.com
(866) 554-4867

Echo Valley Training Center
www.echovalleytrainingcenter.com

Trijicon Inc.
49385 Shafer Ave
Wixom, MI 48393
www.trijicon.com
(248) 960-7700

Black Hills Ammunition
PO Box 3090
Rapid City, SD 57709
(605) 348-5150
www.black-hills.com

Winchester Ammunition
427 N. Shamrock St
East Alton, IL 62024
www.winchester.com

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

Hornady Mfg., Inc.
3625 Old Potash Hwy
Grand Island, NE 68802
800-338-3220
www.hornady.com