by Robert M. Hausman

U.S. Indicts Inter Ordnance Owners German Brothers Charged in 83-Count Criminal Indictment

On February 3rd, Ulrich H. Wiegand, 34, and Oliver M. Wiegand, 37, the owners of Inter Ordnance Of America, L.P., and related companies, were indicted by a federal grand jury in Charlotte, North Carolina on 83 counts alleging conspiracy, illegal importation of machine guns, illegal possession and transfer of machine guns, structuring, and money laundering. The charges involve the Wiegand brothers’ federally licensed firearms business, Inter Ordnance of America, L.P., located in Monroe, North Carolina, as well as foreign companies located in Witten, Germany and Ferlach, Austria, at one time owned and controlled by the Wiegand brothers.

According to the indictment, Ulrich and Oliver Wiegand are German nationals who established Inter Ordnance of America in June 1995 as a firearms importation business and used the business to illegally import machine guns into the United States as machine gun component parts. According to the indictment, the Wiegands also owned and controlled two foreign companies, Wiegand Ordnance GmbH, located in Witten, Germany and Inter Ordnance Waffenhandel GmbH of Ferlach, Austria, which were used by the Wiegands to allegedly illegally import Russian-made PPSh41 machine gun component parts into the United States for subsequent sale by Inter Ordnance of America.

In addition, the indictment alleges that the Wiegands illegally imported FN FAL IMBEL and Steyr MPi69 machine guns. The indictment alleges the Wiegands imported the machine gun components parts knowing that the machine guns had not been destroyed according to ATF specifications. Further, the indictment alleges the Wiegands sold these machine guns as parts kits to customers throughout the United States knowing that the component parts could be assembled as functional machine guns. The government is alleging that the Wiegands sold over 2,000 PPSh41, over 1,000 FN FAL IMBEL and over 500 Steyr MPi69 machine guns as kits to customers throughout the U.S.A.

The indictment also alleges the Wiegands and Inter Ordnance of America structured cash deposits in less than $10,000 increments in order to avoid the filing of currency transaction reports as required by financial institutions. In addition, the government alleges the Wiegands and Inter Ordnance of America used monies from the sales of the illegally imported machine guns in financial transactions to pay importation expenses, income tax expenses, and payments to a German bank account in violation of money laundering laws. The indictment includes a Notice of Forfeiture that asks that the defendants be required to forfeit to the US all of the property involved in the offenses charged in the indictment and all property traceable to such offenses.

The indictment is the result of a two-year investigation by special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Criminal Investigation Division of the Internal Revenue Service.

An American sales employee of Inter Ordnance, contacted by SAR, said that the company had received prior U.S. government permission to import the parts kits and that the method used to destroy the machine guns had been approved by the government prior to their importation.

The approved methods for the destruction of machine gun receivers has long been a bone of contention between importers and the US government which has not issued clear directives on proper destruction methods for the great variety of machine guns available.

ATF Working on Destruction Diagrams

In late January, representatives of the organization representing American importers, the FAIR Trade Group, met with representatives of the ATF Imports Branch, the Firearms Technology Branch (FTB) and the General Counsel in a continuation of discussions regarding machine gun destruction policy and prospective importation of machine gun parts kits.

This most recent meeting followed an earlier one at which FAIR had discussed recent decisions from the FTB disallowing the use of band saw cuts for destruction of receivers and the evaluation, with a negative bias, of destruction methods that involved removing pieces of the receiver prior to importation. FAIR says these issues were resolved in a manner consistent with prior policy and the interests of the importation industry.

Magazine Makers in Flux

Makers of detachable handgun and rifle magazines who supply their products to the US market report they had a bad year in 2003 and don’t expect to get an upturn in sales before the fourth quarter of this year. The reason? The outcome of the decision by the US Congress on whether or not to renew the magazine capacity limit ban imposed during the Clinton Administration in 1994. Congress has the choice of either renewing the ban by vote, or doing nothing and allowing the law to sunset in November.

Handgun makers in particular have been reluctant to order new 10-round capacity magazines for the medium and large frame handguns in their lines as they are unsure if the law limiting magazine capacity to 10-rounds will be continued. If the law goes away, handgun makers are evidently planning to offer guns with larger ammo capacity.

The NRA is sending out mixed signals on the law’s fate. Wayne LaPierre, NRA’s executive VP says the law will not be renewed, while the NRA’s chief lobbyist, Chris Cox, says he is unsure of how Congress will react.

ATF Disclosure of US Firearms Data Ends

The US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives will no longer release gun-source data or statistical information on Federal Firearms Licensees under the Freedom of Information Act due to an amendment pushed by the National Rifle Association to the Congressional Appropriations Bill.

The NRA lobbied for the amendment as the gun trace data released by ATF was often used by the media and anti-gun groups for phony studies which attempted to draw public and legislative attention to so-called “bad apple gun dealers.”

Release of the information is now prohibited by the appropriations bill passed in January, which provides funding for multiple government agencies including ATF. The bill contained an amendment prohibiting ATF from expending funds to provide information to anyone except law enforcement on FFL-holder records.

The amendment also prohibits a planned ATF move to require FFL licensees to take and maintain annual inventories of their firearms. The Congressional Record, the official federal government newspaper, recently published a proposed ATF rulemaking to require FFL’s to maintain annual inventories as a probable consequence of the Bull’s Eye Shooters’ Supply fiasco from which the so-called “Beltway snipers” obtained their rifle and Bulls Eye’s owner did not know the rifle was missing. However, ATF is now prohibited from implementing the inventory requirement. The amendment also provides that information obtained during background checks of prospective firearms purchasers during the background check process can now be kept for only 24 hours. The former time limit was 90 days.

The Bush Administration and the NRA said the protection of firearms data is needed to ensure the integrity of police investigations and to shield firearms retailers from information that could be unfairly used against them.

Pro gun control groups were quick to condemn the legislation. “This is all part of a calculated strategy to basically shut off the flow of information,” said Dennis Henigan, legal director for the Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence. “It’s an effort to make sure that lawmakers, scholars, cities, and the general public not have access to information that could actually inform public policy.”

The anti-gun Americans for Gun Safety Foundation is among the research groups that used the data for studies on guns sold by dealers that have been traced by police, although not necessarily involved in crimes. In addition, the city of Chicago, Illinois, was planning to use the trace data as key evidence in its liability lawsuit against gun dealers. One source indicated the amendment prohibiting disclosure brings a two-pronged benefit as it heads off Chicago’s suit and ends the ability of anti-gun groups to “tar and feather” legitimate firearms retailers. The measure was introduced by Rep. Todd Tiahrt (Rep.-Kansas).

Opponents said the Freedom of Information Act already allows agencies to withhold information gathered for law enforcement purposes or that could compromise investigations. Some law enforcement groups supported the changes, while others did not.

Chris Cox, chief lobbyist for the Institute for Legislative Action (the NRA’s lobbying arm), said the changes were “commonsense reforms that simply clarify current law.”

Current firearms trace data first began to be released after the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) won a lawsuit against ATF in 1999. Before that, the information released typically was several years old.

For Chicago, the trace data is at the heart of that city’s liability lawsuit against what it calls “nuisance” firearms retailers, said Benna Ruth Solomon, the head of the city’s appeals division. The Supreme Court sent the city’s lawsuit seeking the trace data back to the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals.

Solomon said Chicago believes it can still get the gun trace data it was seeking since Congress only prevented ATF from spending money to disclose the information and Chicago said it would pay. IFT has already heard from an industry researcher who had made an unsuccessful offer to pay ATF (which had been turned down) after his initial data request made under the Freedom of Information Act was refused.

“Absolutely appalling,” was how Sen. John McCain (Rep. – Arizona) described the data ban during debate in the Senate. “We cannot have a government that operates in secret and refuses to release data showing where criminals have obtained a gun.” Included in the government ban are the invaluable annual U.S. Firearms Manufacturing & Export Reports formerly released by ATF.

Despite the ATF blackout, there is still an industry information source available. The International Firearms Trade, a monthly newsletter published by this author, still has available a wealth of documents in its research archives detailing U.S. firearm production as well as imports and exports. The IFT Library is now the sole source for firearms industry statistical information. For more information, e-mail: INTLFT@aol.com or FAX to 802-751-8268.

Robert M. Hausman is the publisher of the small arms industry’s two most widely read publications, The New Firearms Business, a bi-weekly on the domestic firearms industry and the aforementioned The International Firearms Trade. For subscription information, e-mail to: FirearmsB@aol.com or FAX: 802-751-8268.

by Chris Choat

SILENCIO INTRODUCES NEW LINE OF ERGONOMIC HEARING PROTECTORS

Silencio announces the launch of the Orion and the Phoenix, the premier earmuffs in a new Contour Series of ergonomically designed hearing protectors. The Contour Series features specially contoured ear cups that are designed to follow the shape and orientation of the ear for maximized comfort, fit and protection, even when wearing shooting glasses. The contoured ear cups, coupled with a sleek, low profile design, make the Orion and the Phoenix the first earmuffs specially designed to accommodate both long gun and pistol shooters. Both protectors also are lightweight and have Custom Comfort adjustable headbands designed to comfortably fit a wider range of head sizes. For more information please contact Silencio, Dept. SAR, 56 Coney Island Drive, Sparks, NV 89431; phone: 1-775-359-4451; fax: 1-775-359-1074; You can see their website at: www.silencio.com.

FOBUS MAGAZINE AND CUFF CASE

Fobus USA announces its new Magazine and Handcuff case it added to their extensive line of holsters, cases and other firearms related products. The new case will accommodate magazines used in Glock models 20/21 and 29/30. The combination magazine and handcuff pouch weighs less than 2 ounces and is a welcomed addition to their line of on-duty/concealment accessories. It is designed for all 10mm and .45 ACP caliber double-column magazines and will hold either chain or hinged handcuffs. It is available in paddle or belt attachment styles as well as the Roto style. This new pouch eliminates the need for two separate belt carriers. Instant access to either the magazine or handcuffs is achieved due to the “proven retention system” that allows removal without disengagement of any devices. This system allows even the most strenuous physical activity with no compromise of retention. This new item, like all other Fobus products, carries a Lifetime Warranty. Suggested retail for the new case is just $22.99. For more information please contact FOBUS USA, Dept. SAR, 1300 Industrial Hwy., Suite B-3, Southampton, PA 18966; phone: 1-215-322-9227; fax: 1-215-322-9223; website: www.fobusholster.com.

NEW HK/CETME SCOPE MOUNT FROM TAPCO

Finally a mount for your HK and CETME rifle! This innovative and stylish HK/CETME claw mount is now available to complete the look of your HK or CETME. Designed to match the quality of the original STANAG mount, TAPCO’s claw mount is made to exacting tolerances and is constructed from investment cast carbon steel with a matte black finish. These mounts give your HK or CETME a distinctive look, and they are see-thru to maintain the use of your iron sights. The new production STANAG-to-Picatinny adapters allow for STANAG type scopes and rings as well as Weaver type rings. Made of aluminum alloy with a hard coat anodized finish. The combination of the mount and STANAG to MIL-STD-1913 rail adapter retails for $99.99. Separately the claw mount retails for $89.99 and the adapter retails for $14.99. For more information contact: TAPCO, Inc., Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 2408, Kennesaw, GA 30156; phone: 1-800-554-7445; fax: 1-800-226-1662; website: www.tapco.com.

DPMS NOW OFFERS .308 STEEL FLATTOP RECEIVER

Adhering to the DPMS tradition of providing new and innovative products, DPMS Panther Arms offers the first upgrade to their hugely popular LR-308 series rifles, the .308 solid steel flattop upper receiver. Machined from 4140 steel and heat treated to a Melonite finish for increased hardness and wear resistance, this new .308 receiver offers shooters a balanced, smoother, sleeker and more angular alternative to the standard .308 upper receiver. Available for the 16-inch heavy-barreled LR-308T, the 18-inch bull-barreled LR-308B and the original 24-inch SST bull-barreled LR-308, the .308 solid steel flattop upper receiver weighs a robust 2.56 pounds and adds an additional 1.48 pounds to the rifles. Competition shooters and benchrest shooters alike will appreciate the increased weight and rigidity of the .308 solid steel flattop upper receiver as it adds stability and increases accuracy by bringing the rifle’s center of balance closer to the shooter’s body. For more information please contact DPMS Inc., Dept. SAR, 13983 Industry Ave., 3312 12th. Street S.E., St. Cloud, MN 56304; phone: 1-320-258-4448; fax: 1-320-258-4449; website: www.dpmsinc.com.

ECLIPSE ENGINEERING INTRODUCES THE AR-MASTER STOCK PIVOT ADAPTER

AR-Master™ is pleased to introduce the Stock Pivot Adapter™ (Patent Pending) model SPA1 for the AR-15. The SPA enables the user to INSTANTLY access-on-demand secondary or redundant optical mounted sights by simply rotating the action in cases of damage, loss of zero to the primary sight, or for near/far range sighting scenarios. Additionally, when the action is rotated 45º or 90º, the pistol grip and high-capacity magazines protrude to the side and not straight down, aiding in a lower/narrower profile for defensive operational positions such as beneath vehicles or other horizontal working envelopes. For more information contact Eclipse Engineering & Design, Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 913, Marysville, WA 98270; phone: 1-360-653-2706; You can visit their website at: www.armaster.com.

BLACK HILLS AMMUNITION INTRODUCES NEW .22-250 AMMUNITION

The .22-250 is the newest member of the Black Hills Gold family. It is offered in both 50-grain and 60-grain loadings. The 50-grain Nosler Ballistic-Tip™ is just the ticket for accurately reaching out and explosively terminating varmints at long range. Black Hills has tested this load with over 20,000 rounds on prairie dogs. It works. The 60-grain Nosler Partition™ is a bullet that has been needed in the .22-250 for decades. Until this Black Hills Gold load, the .22-250 was available only in bullets actually designed for small varmints. When used on deer or antelope the result was often ruined meat and wounded animals. For those skilled shooters who choose to use the ..22-250 for game larger than varmints, this new load with the 60-grain Nosler Partition™ bullet is the best choice. For more information please contact Black Hills Ammunition, Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 3090, Rapid City, SD 57709; phone 1-605-348-5150; fax: 1-605-348-9827; website: www.black-hills.com.

by Lee Arten

Standard Catalog Of Military Firearms Second Edition: The Collector’s Price And Reference Guide- 1870 To The Present
By Ned Schwing
ISBN 0-87349-525-X
Krause Publications Inc
An F&W Publications Company
700 East State Street,
Iola, WI 54990-0001
715-445-2214
800-258-0929
www.krause.com
$24.99 U.S. + $4 shipping.

The Standard Catalog Of Military Firearms: Second Edition is a large-format paperback with more than 400 pages of information on military firearms. Weapons from single-shot rifles and early military revolvers to modern selective-fire rifles and belt-fed machineguns are covered. The book can be a frustrating read – there are many guns pictured I won’t be able to handle or fire. That frustration is balanced by the amount of information about military firearms contained in the book.

Photos are well composed and well lighted. Firearm markings shown are readable too. I’ve looked over many photos of men carrying and shooting military firearms, but many I hadn’t seen appear in this book.

Author Ned Schwing also wrote the Standard Catalog of Firearms. The author’s bio on the back cover of this book calls Standard Catalog of Firearms, “…the world’s most complete illustrated price guide for antique and modern firearms.” The Standard Catalog Of Military Firearms gives military firearms the same treatment. Each country, from Argentina to Yugoslavia-Serbia has its own section. They begin by listing the military conflicts of each nation from 1870 to the present. Then handguns are cataloged, followed by submachine guns, rifles, shotguns and machineguns. Firearms are listed alphabetically by manufacturer.

After reading a bit, I looked up the Madsen M50 and the UD M42. The note on the Madsen submachine gun was short but contained the basic information on the gun. The listed price for transferable Madsens was higher than I expected, but those for Pre-1986 and dealer sample M50s seemed to be in the current range. (The author states that the prices in the book are intended only as a guide, and that the Class III market is volatile.)

The note on the UD M42, a scarce US submachine gun, was longer and included the name of the gun’s designer, Carl Swebilius. Information on who used the guns in World War II was also included. The line, “These guns saw a lot of action during the war” drew my eye. I’d like to see the UD M42’s record documented in a book or a series of articles.

The quoted prices for transferable UD M42s were almost identical to asking prices I’ve seen in print ads or on gun boards in the last two years.

Other features of Standard Catalog Of Military Firearms include the author’s introduction and notes on firearms grading and prices. A short overview of the Class III scene written by J.R. Moody takes up pages 12 and 13. Moody is an historian, a full-auto shooter and a collector, and works with Knight’s Armament Company as a consultant.

Schwing’s contributing editors include Moody, Bruce Canfield, Jim Supica, Robert E. Naess, Nick Tilotta, and others. Seven other writers penned commentaries on firearms covered in the book. Readers of Shotgun News, Small Arms Review, and other gun magazines will recognize the names: Charles Cutshaw, David Fortier, Dan Shea, Peter G. Kokalis, Chuck Karwan, Frank James and Paul Scarlata.

Dan Shea’s commentary on shooting the MG52-2A, a water-cooled .50 caliber Browning nicknamed “Fat Alice” is a neat, nostalgic bit of writing. His piece on the 1914 Hotchkiss is informative, and maybe as close as I will come to shooting one. Frank James’s piece on the M3A1 Grease Gun is a compact history of the M3A1, as is Chuck Karwan’s write up on The U.S. Rifle M14.

Besides the commentaries, Standard Catalog Of Military Firearms contains five and a half pages on variations of the Walther PP and PPK, 10 pages on the Luger, and seven pages on the P.38.

According to a staffer at Krause Publications, Schwing’s Standard Catalog Of Firearms is in its 14th edition and is a best seller for the company. The Standard Catalog Of Military Firearms seems likely to follow the path blazed by the earlier volume.

It would be a fine addition to a collection of books on military firearms, or a good start on a collection for a shooter developing an interest in the field.

Supreme Court Gun Cases
By David B. Kopel, Stephen P. Halbrook and Alan Korwan
Bloomfield Press, 4718 E, Cactus, Nr 440, Phoenix, AZ 85032
Phone: 602-996-4020,
Fax 602-494-0679, website: www.gunlaws.com
Copyright 2004
Trade paperback ISBN:
trade paperback -1-889632-05-8,
library/lawyer’s hardcover:
1-889632-12-0
668 pages, US$24.95
Reviewed by Charlie Cutshaw

It is a virtual article of faith that the Supreme Court has rarely ruled on cases involving firearms. The most famous Supreme Court case is that of the United States vs. Miller which was heard and ruled upon in 1939, although this case actually had little effect on firearms case law, as we shall presently see. In fact, the court has ruled on firearms involved cases in no less than 92 instances over nearly 200 years, three dozen of which quote or directly mention the Second Amendment. In the words of Alan Korwan, one of the book’s authors, “The ‘few’ cases…most were referring to was just …passed down from one lazy parrot to another, and I include myself in that class.” In the landmark study that forms the basis of this book, the authors show not only every single case in which the Supreme Court has ruled directly on the Second Amendment, but examine all cases in which guns were involved. In fact, the Supreme Court has ruled on many aspects of firearms, including numerous cases of self defense. In the words of the Mr. Korwan, “…the Court easily and calmly presumes that gun ownership is normative behavior. American people own guns for all the legitimate purposes that make guns so important in a peace-loving society.” In all cases of self defense, the Supreme Court has focused solely on when and how people used their guns and if the use was proper, taking it for granted that people had them.

The authors are all extremely well-qualified authorities on the subject matter of this book. David B. Kopel and Stephen P. Halbrook are both lawyers and highly regarded experts on firearms legal issues. Mr. Kopel is Research Director of the Independence Institute, a civil liberties organization in Colorado. Mr. Halbrook is an attorney in private practice in Fairfax, VA. He has successfully argued three cases before the Supreme Court, including that of the surviving Branch Davidians. Alan J. Korwan is a full time author and consultant specializing in firearms matters. All three gentlemen have written extensively on Second Amendment subjects and have numerous books and articles to their credit. Supreme Court Gun Cases is probably their most ambitious effort, however. The book achieves its stated goal of covering every Supreme Court decision affecting the Second Amendment admirably.

Of course, since the authors are from legal backgrounds, the book features a legal disclaimer as foreword before any substantive matter is discussed. The reader is sternly warned that this book is not the law and is no substitute for it. The foreword goes on to warn that the reader no representation is made that the book covers all case requirements, prohibitions and rules that may exist. The reader is further strongly urged to consult a qualified attorney and local authorities to determine the current status and applicability of the law to any specific situations that may be encountered. “Being able to cite the perfect test case may not matter to a police officer at the side of your car.” The authors go on to say “…what the law says and what the authorities and courts do aren’t always an exact match.” (emphasis in original) Although the disclaimer might be considered a legal way for the authors to duck any responsibility for actions taken by a reader after having read the case law cited within their book, their advice should be duly heeded. Laws are subject to interpretation and the leftist anti-gun, bigoted judge you are facing doesn’t like you because he (or she) doesn’t much like guns. The bottom line is that if you are ever in a case involving the use of guns or self-defense, get a lawyer specializing in those matters. Even with the disclaimer, Supreme Court Gun Cases is a treasure trove of information.

The entire text of the Supreme Court ruling is contained in every significant case. Since most gun owners are not lawyers, each case also features a plain English summary of the case and its meaning. If this weren’t enough, Supreme Court Gun Cases explains at length the legal meaning of the Second Amendment and its ramifications not only for federal, but in state law. Supreme Court Gun Cases not only cites every single case and explains its meaning in plain language, but also contains separate chapters on Gun Rights in State Constitutions, enumerating each state’s constitutional comments on the rights of citizens to keep and bear arms. A separate chapter by Stephen P. Halbrook titled “Firearms Law Deskbook,” is intended primarily for lawyers. This chapter not only includes methods for defense attorneys to use an array of defense tactics, but also shows prosecutors how to use the law to build the case for indictment. Included are what Mr. Halbrook calls “tactical tips” for attorneys. At the end of the chapter, Halbrook provides a “litigation checklist.” A chapter by David Kopel examines what the Supreme Court has said on 35 cases directly involving the Second Amendment, citing not only the case, but examining the rulings by each court, beginning with the current Rehnquist Court and working back to the obscure 1821 case of Houston vs. Moore, the first Supreme Court case which directly mentions the Second Amendment. This chapter discusses each case in some detail, and includes a chart showing the plaintiffs, the main issue in the case, which justice wrote the opinion, the type of opinion, whether or not the opinion supported the individual right clause of the Second Amendment, the part of the clause quoted and the page of Supreme Court Gun Cases on which the summary can be found. Interestingly, the Supreme Court has consistently ruled that the Second Amendment is an individual, not a collective state right. In 26 of the 35 Second Amendment cases, the right is stated to be an individual right. In six others, the court’s ruling is ambiguous in that the Court does not make clear its intent. In only two decisions was the Second Amendment not confirmed as an individual right. In only one, the 1972 case of Adams vs. Williams, was the individual right specifically rejected. In the other, Hamilton vs. Regents, the Second Amendment was not directly at issue, but was used to decide the case of two conscientious objectors who refused to participate in militia training. In sum, the conclusions of the Supreme Court of the Second Amendment as an individual right have been overwhelmingly positive. The summaries of the cases make fascinating reading.

There are many gems of information contained through this comprehensive examination of the Supreme Court and firearms. For example, the oft-cited Miller case decided nothing, which according to the authors is the reason why both pro gun and anti gun advocates refer to it for support. Because there was no evidence presented, the court remanded the Miller case back to a lower court for retrial. By the time of this ruling, however, Miller, a small time thug, had been murdered and his co-defendant had plea-bargained his way into a lesser offense. Thus, the mandated retrial and evidentiary hearing never was held. Another noteworthy fact is that the Supreme Court has consistently recognized the legality of armed self defense as a distinct right of American Citizens and that a “duty to retreat” is not obligatory.

Although every significant case is cited in its entirety, the reader does not have to wade through page after excruciatingly boring page of legalese. As previously mentioned, each case is summarized in a readable “gist” that explains the background of the case in question, how it came to the Supreme Court, what the court ruled, what dissent there was and why. These short “gists” make for fascinating reading as to the court’s opinion on firearms ownership and self defense. For those whose attention span is too short even for the “gists,” a one paragraph descriptive index of each case is also included. There are many significant cases that include issues that transcend the Second Amendment. Such cases include the infamous Dred Scott case, in which the Supreme Court decided that a black man was not a full citizen and should not be afforded the full rights of citizenship, including firearms ownership.

The authors are all eminently qualified and Supreme Court Gun Cases is a book that belongs in the library of every citizen concerned not only about the Second Amendment, but about the entire Bill of Rights. It is a book not only for gun owners, but is an invaluable reference for lawyers who may become involved with a case associated with the use of firearms. This isn’t a book that one picks up and reads through like a novel. It is one of those books that a person keeps handy to dip into at random and enlighten one’s knowledge of our rights as citizens. As such, Supreme Court Gun Cases is a scholarly tour de force and is highly recommended.

by Bill Ball

When poorer military rifles are made, you’ll find the Italians made them! So remarked a friend as he closed the bolt on a Carcano M1938 infantry rifle used by Mussolini’s infantry. This somewhat biased opinion would undergo significant revision when his hands wrapped around the Italian .30 M1 Garand rifles produced by Beretta or Breda, fully the equal of US .30 M1 rifles produced by Springfield Armory and Winchester. Had my skeptical friend taken the opportunity to hold and fire one of the rarest of the M1 variants, Beretta’s “Type E” Garand, frowns would turn to smiles.

By 1945, millions of Garands filled soldiers’ hands, rifle racks and armories across the world. Surviving World War II soldiers on both ends of the .30 M1 Garand documented some of the M1’s life-impacting lessons. Axis soldiers learned the tactical disadvantage of trying to outshoot a reliable 8-shot self-loading rifle with a 5-round bolt-action rifle of Mauser or Arisaka origin. Shouldering the 10-pound .30 M1 Garand in every theater of operation, allied soldiers learned it was quite heavy. In the South Pacific and facing mass Banzai charges, U.S. Marines quickly decided the ability to fire more than eight .30-06 rounds without reloading was a good lesson learned. While the rifle designed by John Garand fired eight rounds quickly and consecutively, recharging a partially expended clip proved nearly impossibly under battle conditions, and when finally expended, the eight round en-bloc clip ejected with a great deal of noise.

Following successful Allied landings in 1943, Italy left the German/Italian/Japanese Axis and joined the Allies as a co-belligerent. In a series of interesting political turns in the subsequent postwar years, Italy joined the NATO alliance, received large shipments of .30 M1 parts and machinery from the United States, and began to manufacture Garands at privately owned factories (Beretta) and state owned facilities (Breda). United States armories and technicians provided continuing technical assistance as the Italians gained expertise on .30 M1 rifle production and sales. Ultimately, thousands of Italian and Danish soldiers cleaned, shouldered and fired Beretta and Breda built .30-06 Garands.

The World War II lessons learned, and NATO’s adoption of the shorter 7.62x51mm cartridge, accelerated efforts to replace the .30 M1 with new battle rifle designs. The 1950s and 1960s saw the emergence of the FN FAL and Heckler & Koch G3, M14 (United States) and Beretta BM59 (Italy).

A new cartridge (and new rifles chambering it) changes a nation’s military capabilities. Advocates for change promise better reliability, performance and standardization – almost certainly leading to combat successes and reduced costs in the future years. The opposition reminds everyone change costs a lot of money, and the current inventory and infrastructure constitutes a significant investment. Every military establishment has staff officers whose primary job is to insistently raise questions about risk: “What happens if we go to war right in the middle of the transition?”

To field new ammunition calibers and rifles, the spare parts, technical documentation, repair and range facilities, individual proficiency, and tactical ability to effectively employ a rifle/cartridge combination most likely change as well. Modifying an existing weapons system could be a better decision than introducing a new one.

With millions of .30 M1 Garands as potential modification candidates, relative new M1 tooling and expertise available in Italy, a common new cartridge under adoption by NATO nations, and a recognized need for rifles to correct some of the lessons learned in World War II, the time seemed right to upgrade the Garand.

Against this backdrop, Beretta developed a proposal to modify the millions of existing M1s in different nations’ arsenals. Beretta’s strategy accommodated the adoption of the 7.62x51mm cartridge through simple and relatively inexpensive changes to existing M1 rifles.

Looking like a .30 M1 Garand with a big box magazine and new muzzle brake, the modified firearm was nomenclatured as the “Type E” or “E model” Garand in Beretta’s BM59 series of military rifles. BM59, by the way, stands for “Beretta Modification 1959,” a family of Beretta-produced rifles based on the .30 M1 Garand, with many similarities to the US M14 and M14E2 series of battle rifles.

Beretta’s modifications did not reduce the M1’s combat loaded weight. A 20-round box magazine made the “Type E” Garand heavier, but greatly increased firepower without reloading. To fire 40 rounds from a loaded, unmodified M1 rifle, four reloading operations are needed. On the other hand, the “Type E” Garand user can fire 20 rounds without changing anything, and 40 rounds with just one magazine change. A new cartridge clip guide was fitted to the receiver so a partially expended 20-round steel magazine could be reloaded easily using stripper clips. While the typical “Type E” model was self-loading, the greater ammunition capacity proved useful as Beretta also offered the “Type E” Garand in a fully automatic version. The selector switch is discretely located on the left front of the receiver.

This capability, combined with recoil of the 7.62x51mm cartridge raised controllability questions. To address these concerns, Beretta workmen fitted new four-groove, right-hand rifled barrels chambered for the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge, and added a unique muzzle brake, replacing the M1’s gas cylinder lock. Asymmetrical spacing and size of holes on the muzzle break brought the muzzle down and right, offsetting the normal muzzle rise in fully-auto fire. Compensating for a right-handed barrel twist, the muzzle brake directs gas flow with 24 ports on the right side; but only eight on the left side. From steel butt plate through the wooden front handguard to the muzzle, everything else on the “Type E” Garand retained the John C. Garand’s original design. The extra length of the muzzle brake increased the overall rifle length by over 1.5 inches to almost 45 inches.

Beretta did not produce a Garand magazine for .30-06 length cartridges – all of “Type E” Garands were chambered for the 7.62x51mm round. Incidentally, “Beretta “Type E” Garand and BM59 magazines are constructed from blued steel with an aluminum follower, and interchangeable between rifles. Magazines for US M14 rifles appear similar but will not interchange due to size and mounting differences.

Internet-based chat boards and .30 M1 Garand forums occasionally run messages from individuals seeking to wean the M1 away from the 8-round en bloc clip in favor of a large-capacity box magazine. Since the conversion to a box magazine involves machining the hardened M1 bolt and receiver, and subsequent re-heat treating, most qualified advisors do not recommend this conversion. However, when a major arms manufacturer like Beretta (with original production machinery, tons of spare parts, the Val Trompia production facilities, a heritage of nearly 500 years of gun making expertise, and the support of US armories and technicians) undertakes these modifications, then no questions about the quality, reliability and safety need be raised.

Questions raised by potential customers in various NATO and other nations turned instead to issues of cost, national pride, and desire for a different rifle than a modified M1. In Small Arms Today, author Edward Ezell reported that Argentina converted US-supplied M1s to use the 20-round box magazine. Argentina also purchased Beretta-produced BM59 rifles taking an identical magazine, so the possibility exists Beretta modified the Argentinean M1s into a “Type E” configuration. Additional research did not identify other national users of “Type E” Garands, suggesting Beretta’s “Type E” proposal, while technically sound, did not achieve wide scale acceptance. Ultimately, the FN FAL and the Heckler & Koch G3 rifles, along with the US M14 rifle, predominated among 7.62x51mm battle rifles, prior to the widespread acceptance of the 5.56x45mm cartridge in the late 1960s.

Overall, the “Type E” Garand conceived by Beretta retained many strengths of the underlying M1 design, but the modifications did not offer sufficient performance and cost advantages to edge out more modern, competitive offerings. Today, the only known source for “Type E” Garands is Reese Surplus in Geneseo, Illinois. Owner Bob Reese purchased the remaining “Type E” parts and much of the Beretta tooling in the 1980s. Today, Bob reports a few of the self-loading “Type E” rifles remain unsold.

by Julio A. Montes

The first Irish military mission to Central America took place on 3 December 1989, when 57 elements of the Irish Defense Forces participated as part of ONUCA (United Nations Mission in Central America). In January 1992, elements of this mission took over tasks with the UN in El Salvador (ONUSAL). The Irish military forces have been an active participant of several UN missions in peace keeping and humanitarian tasks, and we can mention Lebanon, the Balkans, Timor and Central America. These activities in hostile lands and the experiences with the emergency in Northern Ireland, however, have also brought the realization that the nation is not immune to terrorist activities.

At Dublin I was met by Adrian J. English and Richard Cullen1, both old friends who would be my guides. They had coordinated with Lt. Col. Patrick Herbert2 of the Armed Forces Public Affairs Office for visits to several military installations, and Captain Fred O’Donovan is assigned as our liaison.

THE TERRITORIAL FORCES

The Óglaigh na hÉireann (Irish Defence3 Forces) includes the Army, the Irish Air Corps and the Naval Service. Total authorized strength of the Defense Forces is now 10,780 of which there are 8,706 for the Army, 1,144 for the Navy and 930 for the Air Corps. The Army has a twofold mission: the defense of the national territory and support the Garda Siochana (police). There are three brigades’ headquarters and the National Training Centre.

The 1st Brigade has jurisdiction over the southern counties of Kerry, Cork, Limerick, Waterford, Tipperery, Laois, Carlow, Kilkenny and Wexford. The 2nd Brigade operates in the eastern counties of Kildare, Wicklow, Monaghan, Meath, and Dublin. The 4th Brigade is responsible for the western counties of Donegal, Cavan, Mayo, Sligo, Letrim, Roscommon, Calway, Longford, Westmeath and Offaly.

THE CURRAGH

The Curragh is extended and surrounded by large tracks of green pasture. So large are the fields that a local joke says that here at the Curragh there are only sheep, shit and soldiers. Commandant Eamon O’Siochru tells us that there could be up to 4,500 elements in various phases of training or deployment at the Curragh, making it the most important military installation in the Republic.

The premier anti-terrorist unit of the Irish Defence Forces is the Sciathán Fianóglach an Airm, or Army Ranger Wing, based here. The Irish indicate that there is no exact equivalent to Fianóglach but “Ranger” is widely accepted as its closest translation. The Rangers trace their lineage to the Legendary Irish Warriors (Na Fianna).

The Army Ranger Wing was established in March 1980 by the Defense Act, after a nucleus of operators was trained at Fort Benning, Georgia, by the US Army Rangers. It remains a very secretive unit, tasked with conventional, unconventional and police support missions. Some of the conventional tasks in conventional warfare include security of vital objectives, patrol and long range reconnaissance, ambushes, sabotage, capture of important enemy assets, delay operations, intelligence gathering, and VIP protection, counterinsurgency, planning and training of special operations.

Rangers attend an initial selection course of four weeks. Those chosen will then attend six months of additional training. The emphasis is in shooting, first aid, use of explosives, advanced navigation, parachuting, communications and many other topics. Some of the ARW are specialists in HALO and HAHO while others attend diving training with the Naval Service Diving Section. Snipers attend a seven-week course.

It is believed that the ARW has about 100 operators (the actual number is secret) divided in two assault platoons. Each of them comprises five assault teams of 3 or 4 commandos. There is also a support platoon, with aviation assets, and explosive disposal experts attached to it. The unit maintains close ties and exchange programs with the US Army 1st SFOD-D, and 75th Rangers, as well as with the French GIGN, and Dutch BBE.

The standard side arm for the Rangers is the reliable Sig-Sauer P-226. The P-226 has its origins in the P-220 and P-225 pistols. The P-226 is supplemented with the Browning HP, also in 9x19mm Parabellum.

Until a few years ago the Irish soldier fielded the Swedish Carl-Gustav KPist M45, but the MP5 is now the standard submachine gun. The M45 fires 9x19mm Parabellum ammunition, fed by a 36-round staggered-column, two-position-feed, detachable box-type magazine, and weights 9 pounds, loaded. Although the police use the Uzi as standard equipment, this weapon has never been used by the military. The UZI weights 7.7 pounds, and has a cyclic rate of 600 rpm. The Irish Rangers use the MP5 in several versions, including retractable stock, silenced (MP5SD), and short machine pistol (MP5K). The submachine gun weights 5.6 pounds without ammunition, and has a cyclic rate of 800 rpm. The weapon is fed by 15- or 30-round magazines, and has an effective range of 200 meters. Heckler & Koch also produces the HK53. This is a short rifle rather than a submachine gun, but the barrel is only 50mm longer than the MP5. The HK53 fires the more powerful 5.56x45mm cartridge and has a cyclic rate of 700 rpm. For precision shooting, the Rangers use the HK 33/SG1. The HK33 variant was developed in 1985, and is basically a scaled-down G3 rifle in 5.56x45mm caliber. The SG1 variant weights 8 pounds, and is a refined and precise variant of the standard rifle. Both the HK53 and the HK33 make use of 25- and 40-round box magazines. The MP5, HK-53 and HK33 are designed by Heckler & Koch GmbH of Germany and all use the roller locking system.

The 12 gauge Remington 870 is used for CQB and as an entry weapon, equipped with an 8-round extended tubular magazine.

The Cavalry is in charge of VIP security escort and rapid deployment not only in support of the ARW, but also of the other elements of the Army. The Army is in a transitional process at this time, and it is experiencing difficulties with troop allocations and budget cuts while the politicians increase missions and tasks. Nevertheless, this has resulted in some improvements. Commandant Bergin explained that with the new emphasis in international participation in UN-sponsored missions, each battalion is scheduled to receive about 15 MOWAG III armored vehicles. While explaining and praising the qualities of the Scorpion light tank here at the Curragh, Captain Cooke told us that the Cavalry will also retain a few modernized AML-90 and AML-20 vehicles.

OTHER ELITE UNITS

Commodore Frank Lynch and his second in command, Captain James Robinson, told us that the Naval Service includes the Diving Team. This unit at the moment comprises some twenty men. They remain quite busy detonating mines and ordnance left over from World War II. The Team also provides specialized training to the ARW in diving and underwater explosives and operations. In turn, ARW operators provide classes to those assigned to the boarding parties.

The naval flotilla includes 8 patrol ships, and there is hope that two new multipurpose vessels4 be accepted as replacement of the older patrol boats that are nearing the end of their useful lives. Each ship of the Naval Service has a Boarding Team of nine men. An officer and an NCO are used to board fishing boats, but the complete team of nine is utilized when boarding suspecting contraband and drug traffic vessels. The teams are equipped with Gecko or Israeli ballistic helmets, black nomex suits, and small arms when boarding suspected drug runners. They prefer the Browning High Power, but the AUG is also available.

The Irish Infantry Battalion comprises 473 elements5, divided in one HHC and two regular companies (A & B Coys), and one reservist company (C Coy). The spearhead of the battalion will be in the near future a mechanized MOWAG III company. For now, the eyes and spearheading force of the Battalion remains the elite Recon Platoon. Captain Fred O’Donovan took us to McKee Barracks in Dublin, where the commander of the 5th Infantry Battalion welcomed us and presented his Recce Platoon for the demonstrations.

The FN FAL has been declared obsolete, and it has been replaced with the Steyr AUG in 5.56x45mm. This rifle can easily accommodate the 40mm M203 PI grenade launcher, and it comes equipped with a Swarovski 1.5-power optical sight as part of the carry handle.

Another advantage of the AUG is that it basically consists of a weapon system, which simplifies maintenance, logistics and training. A simple change of accessories can convert the standard rifle to a 9x19mm submachine gun. A barrel change can transform the standard rifle (with a barrel length of 508mm) to a short rifle (with a 350mm barrel), or a Carbine (407mm barrel). The pullpup design makes the AUG very compact and ideal for mounted or heliborne operations.

For sustained fire support, the Irish use the FN MAG 58 GPMG (called here the MAG-80), and the Rangers have selected the FN Minimi SAW. Elements of the Recce Platoon, 5th Infantry Battalion at McKee Barracks indicated that the force had examined the AUG light machine gun (621mm barrel with bipod) but decided against it.

For indirect fire, the Infantry uses a total of 400 81mm Brandt mortars while the artillery uses 64 French 120mm mortars. The artillery will also commence to receive 81mm mortars as part of a political decision. The 60mm Brandt mortar is still deployed, but will soon be replaced by the South African Vektor model.

For antitank work, there are 21 Milan launchers, and 444 Carl Gustavs. The M2 and M3 models of the Carl Gustav are multipurpose portable weapons, with a maximum range of up to 700 meters. The 84mm projectile is launched at a speed of 300 m/s, penetrating a 400mm plate. The M3 lightweight variant has been selected by the US Rangers and it is also available to the Irish Rangers and other units of the Army. The variant that we inspected at McKee was an M2 model with an enhanced sight unit allowing accurate firing for a maximum engagement distance of 700 meters.

The Carl Gustav is supplemented with the AT-4. This weapon is basically an 84mm projectile as used in the Carl Gustav in a disposable launcher. The round is launched at a speed of 290 m/s to a maximum range of 300 meters.

Here at McKee we took a close look at the AI96 rifle. This is a 7.62x51mm NATO precision weapon used by the elite Ranger Wing and the Recce Platoon. The Model PM Sniper was developed by Accuracy International as the Model PM and adopted by the British, Swedish and Irish Armies. The Irish Rangers have designated the rifle as the AI96. The rifle weighs 13.11 pounds, and it is equipped with an 1163mm barrel that can easily hit a target out at 600 yards. The magazine holds ten rounds.

For encrypted and secure communications, the Rangers and infantry use SINCGAR and RACAL communication equipment.

It is unlikely that the Irish Defense Forces will be engaging a conventional enemy any time soon. However, the terrorist threat is all real. Cullen tells me that several years ago a terrorist bomb killed some 30 innocents at an open market. At the time, the blast was blamed to the IRA, but those responsible were never found. This was highlighted more recently with the discovery of a 4,200-pound bomb in Letterkenny. Regardless of its size, the Irish Defence Forces deploy a professional and well trained Army, which remains vigilant and ready to defend the motherland at any cost.

IRISH CAVALRY AND SUPPORT

At one point, the Irish Cavalry had 51 combat armored cars and 14 light tanks, and there were 47 Panhard VTT/M3 APCs. These assets were supplemented with some five locally-made Timoney Mk6 APCs.

Although 51 Panhards and most of the M-3 APCs were locally upgraded with new diesel engines, night vision equipment and laser sights, few remain now in service. The AML-H60 was converted to AML-20 by replacing the 60mm mortars with a G-12 20mm cannon. The Army retains the Scorpions, 15 AML-H90 and 18 AML-20 armored combat vehicles. Until recently, the 27th and 28th Infantry Battalions still operated the last 14 AML-VTT APCs pending their replacement with the new Piranhas. The first unit equipped with the new APC has been the 3rd Battalion, operating 16 of them. The total order covers 65 vehicles of which 40 have been delivered.

There are 24 L-118 105mm howitzers, acquired second hand from excess from the Falkland war. The 25-pounders have been finally retired. For air defense there were 24 elderly L/60 and 2 newer L/70 40 mm cannons, and seven RBS-70 launchers. They have been reinforced with 30 additional L/70 acquired in the Netherlands last year. The present status of the L/60s is unknown.

Footnotes:

1. The first one of Jane’s Information Group and the second with Killiney Travel
2. Who could not meet us due to being away in Croatia at the time.
3. Ireland uses the British spelling or Celt.
4. Similar in design and concept to the USN Whidbey Island class, but much smaller at around 4,000 tons.
5. On paper, since further troops reductions are on schedule.

by J.M. Ramos

In the early 1950s, the United States Air Force adopted the Armalite designed AR-5 as a survival gun for downed pilots. It was a bolt-action repeater weighing only 2 3/4 pounds with an overall length of 30 inches. It was chambered for the potent .22 Hornet cartridge. The AR-5 was eventually replaced by a caliber 22 semiautomatic version designated as the AR-7. Both the AR-5 and AR-7 had their action, barrel and magazines readily detachable and stowed inside the compartmentalized butt. Both weapons will float in water whether in assembled or packed condition. These survival guns are capable of 4-inch diameter groupings up to 100 yards. When Armalite ceased producing the AR-7, Charter Arms took over the production rights and became one of the most successful takedown self-loaders in its class, which inspired many new designs by other companies that followed most notably the new Marlin Papoose and several European models. When Charter Arms went out of business, AR-7 production stopped briefly until its production was again revived recently by Henry Repeating Arms Company based in Brooklyn, New York. The Henry production guns are identical to the original except for various finishes, which include the usual black, simulated satin nickel and new Camo.

Undoubtedly, the AR-7 is one of the simplest American-made self-loading rifle designs ever produced. The trigger mechanism is unrivalled in simplicity, having only three moving parts i.e., the bolt, the trigger and hammer. The bolt design incorporated a dual spring arrangement strong enough to handle the hottest rimfire round available. The compartmentalized buttstock is made of high-impact, glass-impregnated polymer material, while the basic frame and barrel are made from an aluminum casting. The barrel has a thin steel liner strong enough to take pressures generated by .22 LR ammunition. Its few moving parts contribute to much of the rifle’s outstanding reliability and ease of maintenance. The extreme lightness of the AR-7 is well suited for training younger shooters. While the AR-7 weapon system was considered radical when first introduced, it has few flaws. The plastic grip is a bit wide and bulky for small hands and the exposed barrel does get hot after firing a box of ammunition. The breechface is easily peened from hitting the chamber face of the barrel during closure thus deforming the counter-bore, which supports the rim of the cartridge. The peening of the breechface eventually will lead to feeding malfunctions since the rim can no longer glide upward freely due to the tightened pathway. The main culprit is the small diameter barrel liner, which is heat-treated and very hard. The chamber of the liner constantly impinges against the breechface of the bolt during battery and will soon cause the softer metal to peen. If the diameter of the steel barrel liner at the chamber portion is the same as that of the bolt, the peening around the breech face would have been minimized or avoided. This area definitely needs serious attention to correct the problem if the gun is to be fired extensively.

When I first saw and tested the AR-7 in the mid 1970s, I had a mixed reaction. While I was quite impressed with its mechanical simplicity, I found that ergonomics and external format were not appealing to me. I said to myself, I can make this gun better. With that thought in mind, I was inspired and set out to redesign the takedown type AR-7 to a full-house exotic rifle.. The era of hi-tech submachine gun weaponry in the commercial market was just beginning to unfold in the 1970s and I was convinced at that time that this was an ideal opportunity to create something special for the AR-7. As a beginner in the art of gun designing at that time, the AR-7 served as a primary basis from which I was able to put my creativity to a test.

THE NEW CONFIGURATION

The improved gun must be user friendly and adaptable to both young and adult shooters. Most of all, it must be exotic in styling to compete with the upcoming trend in small arms innovations which clearly point towards hi-tech weaponry.

Changing the ultra plain configuration of the original takedown type rifle was no easy task. I started the idea from various conceptual drawings and finally settled on a configuration, which I believe is best suited for the AR-7’s exotic transformation. While it looks good on paper, I also came to realize it would cost a lot of money to fabricate the parts to have it done the way I wanted. So I decided to sit on it for a while with hopes that I could somehow came up with an easier way to accomplish the project without costing me a fortune. One day after work I passed by a local sporting goods store and saw replica models of the Uzi, Thompson SMG, 1911 pistols, S&W and Webley revolvers as well as PPK and Broomhandle with shoulder stocks. These beautiful metal replicas are made in Japan by RMI and well received by collectors who cannot own the real thing. As I carefully viewed the models mounted in the wall, my full attention was drawn to the Broomhandle. As I looked at the lower frame of the Broomhandle, I could envision how great the AR-7 would look if mated to it. If the part fit into the AR-7 frame as I had envisioned, the main obstacle in creating my custom AR-7 rifle is already solved. I bought the replica pistol and started the project. After removing the trigger mechanism from the Broomhandle, I inserted the rear bottom end of the AR-7 frame to the Broomhandle lower receiver. To my amazement, it fit right in, but the replica receiver’s front end needed to be cut and fitted to seat the AR-7 frame properly.

THE PISTOL GRIP ASSEMBLY

The rear portion of the Broomhandle’s lower frame became the AR-7’s pistol grip. To install the Broomhandle part to the AR-7 housing, a mounting plate was fastened behind the rifle’s receiver. The plate was secured to the AR-7 frame by two sturdy screws. One screw was assembled to the rear sight blade assembly hole at the top and the other large screw was assembled through the bottom via the buttstock screw hole. This is a solid set-up. The top portion of the plate was an inverted “V” pattern with a 1/4-inch diameter hole drilled that lined up for the original peephole. The plate hole created a shaded tunnel for the rear sight peephole (positioned between the mounting plate and rear of receiver) eliminating glare and provided better contrast with the front sight. Screws were used to install the grip to the mounting plate. An aluminum block fills up the hollowed upper section of the grip giving it a solid format. Due to the soft metal used in the construction of the replica pistol, it was necessary to use a large steel washer counter-bored to accommodate the head of the three assembly screws that was positioned to the right side upper section of the grip. This steel part prevented the screw heads from digging or deforming the soft surface of the grip when the screws were tightened during assembly.

THE FOREGRIP AND MATCHING HANDGUARD

One of my biggest problems with the AR-7 was not being able to aim the gun in a more natural manner due to the absence of a normal foregrip. After firing a box of ammo, the barrel tends to get very hot so holding on to the barrel for more natural shooting position is not a good idea. The AR-7 is normally fired with the non-shooting hand grasping around the magazine chute of the frame below the barrel. To eliminate this drawback, a wooden foregrip was tailored to fit the underside of the barrel. The top of the foregrip has a half round groove that perfectly matches the diameter of the barrel. The underside of the barrel was drilled and threaded to accept the assembly screw for the foregrip. A brass bushing for the assembly screw was utilized to protect the wood from deforming when the assembly screw was tightened. To complement the nicely configured foregrip, a ventilated metal handguard improvised from square tubing was mated. For assembly, a metal hook was mounted at the front of the foregrip. The hook locked underneath the front uncut lower portion of the handguard. A separate screw secured the rear of the handguard directly into the barrel. For carrying purposes, a detachable sling swivel attachment was mounted in the side hole of the handguard.

THE FOLDING STOCK ASSEMBLY

The AR-7 comes equipped with a thick compartmentalized plastic stock, which accommodates the sub-units. For smaller hands, it is uncomfortable and outright ugly. I wanted something better and more practical so I opted for the pistol grip pattern. I admire folding stock rifles, such as the FN FAL Paratrooper design. Rifles equipped with well-designed folding stocks like the FAL look good and are highly practical. I wanted to incorporate this feature to the AR-7 so I designed a folding stock improvised from dual mild steel rods to form the actual stock and a pre-formed aluminum tubing for the buttplate. The side of the plate had drilled holes in vertical order. A matching rear sling swivel attachment could be mounted in any of these holes. The twin steel rods were connected to the steel rear mount by six screws that were flared in the bottom for permanent assembly. On the rear, the end tips of the rod were riveted to the aluminum buttplate. This metal folder is more than solid enough for use in a .22 rifle. To mount the folding stock to the gun, a separate base was formed and attached to the left side of the upper section of the grip and to the back of the filler. A push button locking mechanism was vertically mounted on the pivot hole of the folding stock. The release button is spring loaded. It is easy to operate and locks positively in either position.

An alternate “fixed”-type wooden buttstock with hook in the end was later fabricated to give the rifle a Mini-Light Machinegun configuration. A side mount was installed to the left front end of the stock to connect it to the existing screw hole at the left of the upper section of grip where the original metal folder was assembled. A large vertical pin was assembled through the pivot hole of the folding stock. This pin tightens the front right side of the stock against the internal shoulder of the front mount that is connected to the rear of the grip. A separate rear sling swivel mount was connected to the upper left side at the rear of the buttstock. This is the perfect location for the sling attachment as it retains the balance of the rifle in vertical “assault” position at all times. A formed aluminum buttplate is mounted at the rear of the stock. The alternate stock option worked quite well in this project.

NEW THUMB SAFETY

The original manual safety of the gun was mounted to the right side of the frame. To operate it, the shooting hand had to shift its hold on the grip so the thumb can manipulate it, or the non-shooting hand can also move it to the desired position. For what it was originally designed for, this arrangement is acceptable. For more practical purposes however, it is best that the thumb safety be operated by the shooting hand without altering his grip in order to maintain steady target acquisition. For this advantage, a new safety was fabricated using 1/16-inch thick mild steel bent in the same position as the original at the bottom to block the trigger when the safety is on. The top portion was cut off to make it flush in the frame’s pivot groove so the upper section of the pistol grip will seat flush into position. A longer pivot pin is riveted to the new safety. The protruding end to the left mated the matching thumb-operated lever, which is positioned at the right side of the frame, where it can be manipulated easily by the thumb of the shooting hand. To provide smooth and positive movement of the lever during thumb manipulation, a spring-loaded steel ball was used. A small setscrew retains the connection of the lever to the pivot pin. The setscrew was positioned at the rear of the lever and locks firmly with the pivot pin.

THE AMBIDEXTROUS MAGAZINE CATCH ASSEMBLY

The magazine catch arrangement of the AR-7 is another area that needed improvement. The catch was mounted on the left side of the frame just behind the magazine. This part was only accessible to the non-shooting hand. For faster magazine changing, it is best to have the shooting hand operate the magazine catch. To accomplish this, a 3/8-inch diameter, steel rod was mounted horizontally to the original magazine catch using an Allen screw. The extended end to the right has deep serrations in circular format allowing a non-slip activation of the catch. The shooting finger can now operate the magazine catch faster without shifting the grip

THE MUZZLE BRAKE

No exotic rifle is complete without a muzzle brake or flash hider. The muzzle brake used in this rifle has three vent holes, one at the top to prevent muzzle climb and one on each sides to balance the side play. Normally, in a .22 rifle, a muzzle brake is not required. However, the AR-7 being very light in construction can use a muzzle device. This device proved highly efficient during the rapid-fire test.

THE FINISH

To complement the dull anodised finish of the AR-7, all the metal parts (except muzzle brake) added to complete the exotic mini rifle were spray-painted with baked-on “crinkle” paint. It is an attractive and scratch resistant finish, which is also used by the British and Spaniards to coat their 9mm submachine guns and older assault rifles.

“Increasing lethality will be possible by integrating technology into the individual soldier’s weapon. Through the use of laser range finders, ballistic computers, and miniature electronic fuzes, the soldier will be able to precisely place a fragmenting warhead at or near the target…in defilade or behind obstacles.” Vernon E. Shisler, Head of Plans, Programs, and Projects, Joint Service Small Arms program Office

OBJECTIVE FORCE WARRIOR is the second of three stages in developments underway in the US military to make sure the American fighting man will be able to dominate any potential enemy soldier for the next 20 years. OFW will be followed by FUTURE WARRIOR sometime around 2020. Each step will take advantage of existing, emerging, or theoretical technologies to continually upgrade his lethality, survivability and multi-mission effectiveness against any threat, day and night, on any terrain and in all weather conditions.

A System of Systems

Although it is tempting to make fun of all the technical jargon and science-speak routinely used in official releases and presentations, acronyms like “C4ISR” (command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, reconnaissance) are useful shorthand among serious participants. Upgrades to LAND WARRIOR’s hardware and software modules will more completely integrate OFW squads with parallel and higher command elements on the digital battlefield, making them full partners in C4ISR. In addition, they will enjoy unprecedented survivability, agility, sustainment, and most importantly – lethality.

Survivability is perhaps the tallest order on battlefields that are growing increasingly lethal, beyond traditional ballistic and blast threats to a seemingly endless inventory of killing and crippling mechanisms. Some of these weapons include chemical, biological, and directed energy (lasers, microwaves, etc.), as well as environmental extremes. In response, OFW will get better body armor, improved NBC protective suit and filtration, heating or cooling as needed.

Agility – the ability of each soldier to quickly move around the battlespace – is expected to come from lightening his load. OFW’s gear and weaponry are supposed to total no more than 40 pounds with all the squad’s extra necessities stowed in a robotic mule. Human performance is also on the get-better list from strict standards of age and physical fitness combined with high-energy nutrients and even “pharmacological advances” (jet fighter pilots already take small doses of amphetamines on extended missions).

Unaided sustainment for 72 hours is another program goal where the OFW squad will have on hand all the food, water, ammo, electrical power and everything else needed to accomplish its mission. The mule is a big part of this with on-board generator, water purification, and plenty of room for all sorts of supplies. Microclimate heating and cooling devices built into uniform undergarments will keep the soldier at least relatively comfortable as ambient temperatures and exertion levels change.

Lethality – the foot soldier’s bottom-line capability – is expected to get a big boost with some hardware already in the pipeline and then some more tools that haven’t yet made it off the drawing board. OFW will be able to find his adversaries with the aid of a variety of air and ground robotic scouts, then kill or neutralize them with his own weapons or by calling in pinpoint strikes from artillery and air power.

Objective Individual Combat Weapon

OICW, now known as the Integrated Air Burst Weapon and recently given official designation as the XM29, is a technological marvel that will give the infantry squad’s grenadiers unprecedented accuracy and lethality.

The XM29 is well on its way to overcoming limitations inherent in the M4 carbine/M203 grenade launcher combo in significant ways including computerized fire control for all light and weather conditions, more than double the range, and “smart” ammo for pinpoint airbursting to take out enemy troops behind cover. Let’s take a closer look at how the Army and ATK Integrated Defense – charged with making everything work together – are using a team of industry experts providing four separate components that work in harmony to do the job.

Brashear LP has the weapon’s fire control system, bringing a degree of fighter jet sophistication to the series of complex tasks necessary for target detection and neutralization round-the-clock. Somehow they have managed to stuff a laser range finder, direct view optics, thermal imager, ballistic computer, fuze setter, environmental sensors, and a compass into a housing not much bigger and heavier than a cop’s four-D-cell flashlight.

ATK itself makes the High Explosive Air Burst (HEAB) ammo, cleverly placing tiny electronic components for computation and initiation between two fragmenting warheads. Among many daunting challenges that have been overcome are miniaturization, launch shock, safety, reliability, and lethality. Objections to current per-round cost, which will no doubt drop during mass production, are also countered by projections of dramatically improved combat effectiveness so that less ammo has to be carried and fired.

The soldier finds his target in daylight using the optical scope and in darkness or behind smoke using the built-in thermal imager. The laser provides exact range simultaneously to the computer and the chambered 20mm grenade, and then puts a dot representing the correct aim point into the viewfinder display. Elevating the weapon until the dot is on the target assures correct ballistic geometry for launching a “smart” round that counts its rotations as it flies out and detonates right above the enemy fighting position.

Ongoing live-fire testing has convincingly demonstrated this capability and the Army expects fielded systems to be five times more lethal at twice the range of the current M203 40mm grenade launcher.

The HEAB round is launched from a remarkably up-engineered version of HK’s innovative Close Assault Weapon with “elastomerics” to absorb most of the kick on firing. A detachable box-type magazine feeds five rounds for fast semiautomatic function.

Traditional direct fire target perforation has not been neglected in the system and HK is also providing the “kinetic energy” (KE) weapon component. Fans of their G36 rifles and carbines will be pleased to know that a chopped G36 is tucked neatly under the 20mm, offering both semiautomatic and burst firing of NATO standard 5.56x45mm ammunition. And yes, the whiz-bang fire control module automatically provides its aiming reference when KE is selected.

Block 1 weapons (first version for production) have successfully met all testing standards and are expected to be issued to the first units – probably special operations – as an upgrade to LAND WARRIOR sometime in the next several years. But the program is not standing still and advances in science are being incorporated or planned for subsequent variants. Follow-on versions to arm OBJECTIVE FORCE WARRIOR are likely to take advantage of such things as composite materials, ceramic barrels, fuel cells, wireless connectors, nano technologies, and more. These will decrease weight, cost and bulk, while increasing ruggedness and lethality.

Objective Crew Served Weapon and Payload Rifle

OCSW is now known officially as the XM307, a 25mm big brother to the infantryman’s shoulder-fired XM29. Intended to replace both the venerable .50 caliber M2HB machine gun and the 40mm Mark 19 grenade machine gun, the XM307 uses multifunction computerized fire control and “smart” ammo.

Defense industry giant General Dynamics is in partnership with the Joint Services Small Arms Program to develop this lightweight, two-man portable system that is expected to be fielded as early as 2007 in a multitude of roles from infantry in the dirt to sophisticated land, sea and air fighting vehicles.

OCSW’s highly developed electronic fire control includes a laser range finder, ballistic computer, all weather day/night sight, and automatic range setting of each round of programmable ammo as it is chambered.

Since it doesn’t have to be fired from a human shoulder it can launch a bigger, heavier round to much greater distances so its 25mm projectile flies out to more than 2,000 meters with a larger payload. Its high explosive airbursting warhead produces casualties over a significantly wider area and the armor piercing load can punch through 2 inches (51mm) of steel plate.

Although the system and its ammo are much more expensive than the two weapons that will be replaced, the latest computer modeling and projections by respected logistics and combat experts show a net gain due to the need for far fewer rounds to do the job.

The OCSW’s formidable 25mm round has recently been drafted for service in Ronnie Barrett’s awesome “Payload Rifle,” the latest in his line of big-bore blasters. (See photo fo the payload rifle on page 74) Barrett’s .50 caliber sniper and antimaterial rifles have been standard in US and allied armies since way before Desert Storm and this seems to be a logical progression for situations where the relatively heavy and bulky XM307 is not feasible. According to Army and industry sources, special operations forces are particularly excited about the 25mm’s devastating effects on a variety of high-value targets.

Lightweight Weapons

A loaded and fully accessorized M4 carbine easily pushes 12 pounds and the Block 1 XM29 several pounds more. Similarly, the M249 SAW has a 24-pound weight penalty carrying 200 rounds of relatively puny 5.56x45mm belted ammo. There is much room for improvement.

Joint Services Small Arms program (JSSAP) gurus know we can do better and have begun brainstorming some ideas for cutting weight by 40% or more without reducing effectiveness. If funding comes through, real work will begin with the latest in composite receivers, ceramic materials, caseless ammo, and other promising technologies to field a 5-pound carbine and a 14-pound SAW. These are intended to compliment the highly sophisticated XM29 in situations such as quick reaction, close range direct fire.

OFW on the World WideWeb: www.Natick.army.mil/soldier/wsit/index.htm

Next Month

Improvements to OBJECTIVE FORCE WARRIOR and astonishing technological advances are showing the way to the Army’s next step; FUTURE WARRIOR. Read about how visionary scientists and engineers imagine the battlefield of 2020 and are working now to ensure that America’s fighting forces can continue to maintain significant advantages in warfighting capabilities. What are the implications for mankind in fielding microminiature combat robots, mind-altering energy fields, and more?

by Prokopios A. Ziros

The Hellenic (Greek) War Museum was created in July of 1975 and it is currently being managed by the Greek Military. The collections displayed in the museum contain over 20,000 items that will take the visitor on an incredible trip through the most important moments of Greek history. At the same time, the museum operates as a research area, study and training center.

In the exhibition halls of the Hellenic War Museum, the Greek participation in World War II is presented by various objects such as a number of important paintings by well-known Greek artists of the period. Also included are weapons of the period 1938-1944, personal objects belonging to eminent officers, battle plans, models of war ships, and airplanes as well as posters and sketches and photographs. A Greek victory was not an easy matter in World War II due to the well-prepared and strongly equipped war machine of the Axis powers. However, through the forceful resistance to the fascist attack, the heroism of the Greek Army and the support it received from the Greek population, made possible a victory against the Italian Army. The Italians outnumbered the Greek Army by a 3-to-1 ratio, and were better equipped on the Albanian front. As a result of Greek resistance, the time schedule of the war operations of the Axis powers was turned back. The heroic struggle of the Greek nation is a feat that can be held as an example for future generations. Many European nations bowed to the axis, but Greece’s Prime Minister John Metaxas said “No” to the telegram that the Italian ambassador to Greece presented him with, asking Greece to unconditionally surrender. Later on in the War, English Prime Minister Churchill paid a great compliment to the Greek fighters by saying, “Greeks don’t fight like heroes, but heroes fight like Greeks.”

Another great weapons display that you will see are the weapons used through the Balkan War campaigns of 1912-1913. These weapons safeguarded the human rights of the Christians who had labored under the Turkish yoke, and they put an end to the misery of the enslaved people, which, for centuries, had endured martyrdom and abasement. The weapons you will see related to the Balkan wars are the Army rifle Gras M 1874, Mannlicher-Schoenauer M1903, Revolver Modele D’ Ordonnance 1873 and 1874, Browning M1900, Bergman-Bayard M1908 & M1910, Mannlicher pistol M1905, and several types of officers swords.

Some of the weapons you can expect to see in the museum, used in WWII and Korean War, include the following: MG34, MP40, MP41, M1928 and M1 Thompson, Grease guns, M1 and M2 .30 Carbines, Sten submachine gun, Bren LMG, Vickers, Browning M1919 belt-fed machine guns, M2HB 50 cal., 20mm, Hotchkiss, Berettas, BAR Maxim gun, Schwarzlose, Chauchat, along with several types of mortars and cannons and airplanes on the outside of the museum.

A beautiful collection of uniforms and very old firearms, swords and armor including medieval armor, are also displayed. A Greek Military High ranking Officer collected the weapons and exhibits throughout his military career and donated his collection to the Museum and it is named after him, the “Saroglos Collection.”

One should also expect to see exhibits from the Stone Age and the early Bronze and Middle and Late Bronze Ages with emphasis on the Mycenaean period. The materials displayed in these rooms include a series of original weapons and tools from the collection of the War museum. Of special interest are hand axes of Paleolithic types, Neolithic Celts, and a Bronze dagger of early Bronze Age type, a great variety of blades and other tools made of melian obsidian and a number of Mycenaean bronze tools and spearheads.

The front yard of the Museum is covered with several different types of cannons, from the Greek revolution of 1821, to the newer war of Korea. You can also expect to find several planes, new and old. There is also a great library of old and newer war and gun books.

The museum is open daily except Monday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and the entrance is free. It is located at Vassilissis Sophias and Rizari 2, Athens. The location is very close to central Athens and all of the ancient ruins like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, which one must visit if in Greece, and should be visited by all gun and history enthusiasts. A must do for the family that loves history, which Greece is so famous for.

by Charlie Cutshaw

The 97-year-old .45 Automatic Colt Pistol (ACP) cartridge refuses to die, despite having been pronounced moribund on a number of occasions, most recently when the US Military adopted the caliber 9x19mm M9 pistol. After briefly experimenting with the M9 and other 9x19mm pistols, most American special operations organizations returned to the .45 ACP. Marine Corps special operations capable expeditionary units continue to use modified M1911A1 pistols, designating them MEU-SOC (Marine Corps Expeditionary Unit – Special Operations Capable) Pistols. Then there is Heckler & Koch’s .45 ACP Mk 23 SOCOM handgun, designed specifically for special operations use. Most recently, the 9x19mm has proven to be less than satisfactory in combat in Afghanistan, where there has reportedly been a clamor for resurrecting M1911A1s or at least a .45 ACP handgun that is an effective “people stopper.”

When one thinks of a .45 ACP pistol, the venerable M1911/M1911A1 usually comes to mind. It remains a viable handgun for military, law enforcement or personal defense use. In its “commander”-size, the pistol is more adaptable to concealed carry. One problem with most standard M1911 type pistols, whatever their size, is the fact that they are not fully reliable with all types of ammunition, especially some jacketed hollow point (JHP) cartridges. The price of entry for a quality M1911 is typically quite high – usually over $1,000 for a pistol with a crisp trigger, reliable feeding and enhanced accuracy. There is, however, a very reasonably priced alternative to an expensive custom “commander”-sized M1911 – the Taurus PT945.

Taurus pistols are made in Brazil on computer numerical controlled (CNC) machinery and thus maintain a high degree of consistent tolerances and quality of manufacture. Lest the reader mistakenly believe that Brazilian manufacture is somehow of lesser quality than “Made-in-USA” firearms, the fact is that several “name” manufacturers of high quality firearms import their components from Brazil and assemble them here. The PT-945 combines the best from Taurus’ 9mm PT-92 series, along with some desirable features from the M1911. The combination is a Commander-sized “single stack” .45 ACP pistol that is worth a look by anyone desiring a reliable, high quality .45 ACP pistol. A comparison between the PT945 and Commander reveals that the two are virtually identical in every dimension. The silhouettes of the two pistols are likewise almost the same. The PT945 mimics the Commander in almost every tactile aspect. Controls are placed similarly to the M1911, but improved in size and shape.

The PT-945’s frame is alloy, with a double-action/single-action fire control mechanism. The frame-mounted safety lever has three positions. “Up” is safe and the pistol can be carried “cocked and locked” in Condition One. The middle position is “fire.” Pressing the lever fully down safely drops the hammer. I personally use a matte stainless PT945 for IDPA and concealed carry, and unlike many factory M1911A1 pistols, it reliably feeds every type of ammunition I have ever run through it, including semiwadcutter, which rarely will feed reliably through a stock M1911A1, except very expensive custom pistols that come from the factory “ramped and throated.” The Taurus’ trigger pull in the double-action mode is long, but smooth, and at an average of 9.5 to 10.5 pounds in the pistols tested, not overly heavy. Despite this, when one fires the first shot in double-action and then must switch to single action, the trigger’s position and pull weight are changed, and the firing grip must be altered somewhat, affecting accuracy and speed of the following shot. For this reason, I carry my PT945 just as I carry a M1911A1 – Condition One, “cocked and locked.” The manual of arms in this mode is identical to that of the M1911A1, so there are no changes. The PT945’s single-action trigger is two-stage with a crisp “break,” no discernable creep and a small amount of overtravel. Single-action trigger pull of the PT945s tested for this article averaged 4.5 to 5.5 pounds, which is pretty close to ideal for a combat handgun.

As to overall “feel,” the Taurus engineers mimicked that of the M1911A1 to the greatest extent possible. The PT945 grip-to-frame angle is identical to the M1911A1, but there is no grip safety. Both the front and back grip straps are serrated along their entire length for enhanced grip. The PT945’s butt is rounded, which makes it less likely to “print” when being carried concealed. The magazine-well is beveled to facilitate reloading. Controls such as safety, slide release and magazine release are positioned in essentially the same location as those of the M1911A1. The safety is ambidextrous, but doesn’t “bite” the knuckle of the trigger finger like some M1911 ambidextrous safeties. Again, if one is familiar with the M1911, there is nothing new to learn. The M1911 shooter can pick up a Taurus PT945 and head to the range knowing that the manual of arms for his new pistol is identical to his old favorite. The PT945 sits relatively low in the hand, and points in an almost identical manner as any M1911A1 variant. The PT945’s backstrap contour is slightly different than the M1911 or M1911A1, but this did not affect accuracy or the pistol’s natural pointing capabilities.

The PT945 slide is steel and has no barrel bushing. The extractor also serves as a loaded chamber indicator; when a round is chambered, it protrudes slightly revealing a small red notch and stands just above the slide’s surface to provide a tactile indication. This doesn’t eliminate the need to physically clear the pistol in accordance with good gun-handling practice, but it does provide an instant indication. Sights are combat-type with a square-notch rear sight with small white dots and a blade-type front sight with a larger single white dot. Trijicon(tm) tritium sights are available as an option.

The PT945 is unique in the variety of finishes available. Many pistol makers offer various finishes, but Taurus’ variety exceeds that of any other manufacturer. PT945s are available from “plain vanilla” blue with rubber grips to “fancy” in either blue or polished stainless with gold-plated controls and rosewood or mother of pearl grips. While some may denigrate fancy grips and gold plating, we should recall that no less an American hero than George S. Patton, Jr. carried fancy pistols, as have many other very serious and deadly handgunners. My personal carry/IDPA PT945 is stainless with hard rubber grips.

Besides the special finishes, which are esthetic enhancements, Taurus also offers functional options, one being barrel porting. This option reduces felt recoil and muzzle flip, but if one plans to use their PT945 in IDPA competition, it must be noted that ported barrels are forbidden. Also, I find cleaning the inside of the ported barrel PT945’s slide is a real chore.

The PT945’s method of operation is the Browning short recoil system with the barrel’s locking block engaging the ejection port. This system improves the basic Browning system by reducing the number of engagement surfaces. The very large ejection port extends halfway down the right side of the slide and wraps over the top left of the slide. There is no barrel link, but a cam lug similar to that of the Browning M1935 on the bottom of the barrel forces it into and out of battery. The slide locks to the rear after the final shot and the magazines drop free when the release if pressed.

I stated earlier that the PT945 is more reliable “out-of-the-box” than any standard grade M1911A1 I have experienced. As mentioned, I have been unable to find a .45 ACP cartridge that would not cycle through any of the PT945s tested for this article. This is attributable to the polished feed ramp that is actually machined into the barrel. When the barrel moves slightly to the rear and drops down after the spent case is ejected, the ramp is positioned into a notch in the frame. At the same time, the magazine positions the next cartridge high on the feed ramp, almost in a direct line with the chamber. This is a decided improvement over the M1911A1, in which the round first hits the feed ramp in the frame, and then bounces up into the chamber. The next M1911 critical point is the chamber throat, which also should be polished to ensure reliable feeding. After the cartridge bounces off the frame’s feed ramp, it caroms up into chamber throat, where the nose impacts it at an angle. If the throat is unpolished, the cartridge may again come to a full stop, causing a severe stoppage. Most high quality 1911-type handguns today have taken steps to eliminate this problem, but the potential is still there, and the author has experienced it in several current standard-grade production pistols

I found the PT945 to point naturally and to be easy to control, even with +P ammunition. At an overall average of 2.9 inches at 15 yards, accuracy for the eight pistols tested was about what one would expect from a stock .45 ACP pistol. Since the test results for all pistols would create a very busy chart, I have reduced the accuracy to averages for each type of ammunition fired. Accuracy results can be found at Table 1. Aside from the variety of pistols available, Taurus has two additional features that they pioneered. One is the Taurus Security System(tm). Taurus’ system is integral to the pistol and requires no external locks, cables or other equipment, except a key. The second unique Taurus feature is the company’s Unlimited Lifetime Repair Policy(tm). If a Taurus pistol ever breaks for any reason due to a manufacturing defect, the company will repair it at no cost. This warranty is transferable from one owner to another without registration, but does not include sights, accessories, cosmetic defects after one year, or damage caused by customer abuse, such as high-pressure reloads.

The sole complaint I have regarding the PT945, or for that matter, any Taurus pistol is that there is only a single magazine included in the purchase price. I believe that any pistol that might be used for self-defense should be provided with at least one spare magazine.

PT945 takedown is actually simpler than a M1911 type pistol. Clear the pistol and remove the magazine. Move the slide forward into battery. Press in on the locking button on the right side of the slide and rotate the takedown lever clockwise. (The takedown lever will not rotate with the slide to the rear.) It will automatically lock into the down (disengaged) position and the slide will move slightly forward on the frame. The slide can then be removed from the frame by pulling it forward. Lay the slide upside down on a table or bench. Press forward on the full-length recoil spring guide rod and separate it upwards and to the rear from the slide assembly. Lift the barrel out of the slide. This completes field stripping and no further disassembly is necessary or recommended. Reassembly is generally the reverse of disassembly, except when the slide is mated to the frame, the takedown lever will automatically snap back into the locked position. Move the slide back and forth a few times to confirm that the slide is locked to the frame.

To sum up, Taurus’ PT945 offers a lot for the price. Suggested retail runs from $560 to $655, depending on options. The PT945 offers a reliable, quality pistol for competition or self defense at a very competitive price.

If there is any downside to the PT945 or any other Taurus pistol, it is the lack of carry gear for it. Holsters intended for other pistols can be used with Taurus products, but they generally do not fit well, and few manufacturers offer custom-made holsters for Taurus pistols. This is about to change, however. A small specialist company, Ready Tactical Products of Decatur, Alabama has begun manufacture of holsters and magazine carriers for all Taurus pistols. The holsters are made of high grade Kydex and are of extremely high quality, but are priced very competitively. All Ready Tactical holsters are adjustable for tension. In addition, Ready Tactical offers its very innovative “Claw”® magazine carriers that positively retain magazines without the use of snaps or flaps.

Sources:

Taurus International Manufacturing, Inc.
16175 NW 49th Avenue
Miami, FL 33014
Tel: (305) 624-1115
Fax: (305) 623-7506
www.taurususa.com

Black Hills Ammunition
PO Box 3090
Rapid City, SD 57709-3090
Tel: (605) 348-5150
Fax: (605) 348-9827
E-mail: bhammo@rapidnet.net

International Cartridge Corporation
RR#2, Box 300
Reynoldsville, PA 15851
Tel: (814) 653 0390
Fax: (814) 938-6821
www.internationalcartridge.com

Remington Arms Company
870 Remington Dr.
Madison, NC 27025
Tel: (800) 243-9700
Fax: (336) 548-7801
www.remington.com

Ready Tactical Products
1604 Saginaw Lane, SW
Decatur, AL 35603
Tel: (256) 350-4247
Email: const@swbell.net

Trijicon, Inc
49385 Shafer Ave.
PO Box 930059
Wixom, MI 48393
Tel: (248) 960-7700
Fax: (248) 960-7725
www.trijicon-inc.com

by Warren Ferguson

Most shooters are familiar with the selective-fire Uzi submachine gun – battle winner and presidential defender. Now, the Polish firm of Lucznik-Radom has unveiled its latest Uzi-type carbine, the BRS-99. It’s Uzi meets AKM meets Autoloading Pistol and is an excellent product improvement over its originator, the Uzi. The BRS-99 modernizes the Israeli design to create a new weapon that fits the most stringent NATO specifications and police tactical unit requirements.

The BRS-99 comes down the line of several Uzi-type Polish submachine guns. That is interesting since the Warsaw Pact countries across the board had for decades been using AKMs and by the late 1980s would switch over to AK-74U (wz89) varieties of submachine guns.

Engineers from Z.M. Radom developed the Pm-84 “Glauberyt” in the early 1980s. It was blowback-operated and very similar to the Uzi. The forward part of the bolt wrapped around the chamber, the magazine fit into the pistol grip, and so forth. The Pm-84 was also constructed out of sheet metal stampings, making it easy and cheap to manufacture. Only the bolt, sear, hammer and the barrel required machining.

From the outset, the Pm-84 fired from the closed bolt and chambered the 9mm Makarov cartridge. The trigger mechanism sat in the rear part of the lower receiver and was controlled by a selector/safety lever located on the left side of the receiver.

There was also an inertia-operated retarding device in the lower receiver that reduced cyclic fire rate to about 600 rpm. A forward folding pistol grip (like the Pm-63) was fitted along with a retractable wire stock.

The sights had four setting: two for 75 meters (one open and one peep), 150 and 200 meters. Two handles located at both sides of the receiver loaded the weapon. Standard equipment consisted of a carrying belt, a canvas holster, magazine pouch and four magazines (one 15-round and three 25-round).

The Pm-84P is the 9mm Parabellum variant and therefore the bolt and construction is heavier. Submachine guns manufactured recently have additional layers of metal added to the sides of the receiver that partially cover the folding stock in retracted position. Both the Pm-84 and Pm-84P were offered in semiautomatic-only variants for police duty. The Pm-84P, as well as the newer and refined Pm-98, are used by the Polish military and will ultimately replace the Pm-63.

Who is Lucznik-Radom?

Lucznik-Radom carries on the excellent histories of Fabryka Broni Radom and Zaklady Metalowe Lucznik. Radom is known for its famous wz 1935 pistol and initially Lucznik-manufactured items for Polish military requirements and also bicycles and machine tools such as sewing machines.

Examining firearms from Poland, one will most often find them marked with the number “11” in an oval. This is the factory marking of Zaklady Metalowe LUCZNIK S. A., which is located in the city of Radom. Zaklady Metalowe Lucznik has been making Kalashnikov clones for many years and is now marketing weapons re-chambered for 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition under the name wz90 Tantal.

The Tantal is like the AK74, but houses a new trigger mechanism. The Kalashnikov selector switch is now used as a safety and a selector switch has been moved to the left side of the rifle with full-auto, semiautomatic and 3-shot burst settings. The improved wz96 Beryl has an optics mount on top of the receiver cover and an 18-inch barrel.

On the BRS-99, the Fabryka Broni symbol of an FB within a triangle is found along with the name BRS-99, the caliber, but no country of origin or importer. Matching serial numbers are located on the upper and lower receivers, inside of the top cover, bolt and barrel.

Why exactly is Lucznik-Radom selling military arms abroad or even taking the time to develop the BRS-99 semiautomatic carbine? This is because Polish authorities want to develop an export orientation, replace old equipment to ensure interoperability with NATO forces, open the Polish economy to foreign capital, and lead the way for the ultimate financial stabilization of Poland’s defence industries.

The Poles are actively trying to boost sagging arms exports and so the BRS-99 is part of that strategy. The number of countries embargoed by the United Nations has increased recently, and, along with the dissolution of the Warsaw Pact, contracts for Polish arms have decreased and so there has been a shift in sales policy. To save one its largest sources of income, weapons have been modernized and made to NATO specifications. Meanwhile, Poland is in the process of legitimizing its arms industry and has worked to minimize black market weapons sales (said to be about 1/3 of all weapons shipments from Poland now) to meet Western ethics.

Poland is doing its best to move toward market liberalization and privatization, but many of its defence firms are large and employ thousands of workers. The estimated debt of the arms sector exceeds 1 billion zlotys or nearly one half of the value of the firms. Many of the largest companies have hovered on the brink of bankruptcy. Some analysts suggest that in order to survive, defence firms should generate approximately $80,000 in revenue per employee.

In the interim, Poland needs arms sales to pay its unionized and vocal workers. Lucznik workers in recent years have missed months of wages and have picketed the Treasury and Economy Ministries in Warsaw for more state orders for their products. Currently, Lucznik’s 4,000-strong work crew wants the government to order 15,000 rifles that can meet NATO military standards.

With all this at play, the end result is a willingness to make very good military weapons for the end user.

Why refine the Uzi?

One strategy Poland is following in lieu of large exports is to purchase licenses to manufacture Western equipment. This way, the national defense infrastructure and employment is maintained while gaining access to advanced technology. The Poles are also looking to improve existing equipment and so the Uzi is a natural starting point for the Pm-98 and the BRS-99.

You will recall that the Uzi came about during the 1950s in Israel’s primitive economy and arms industry. It takes a lot from the Czech vz23 and vz25 SMGs. Soldiers liked its compactness and the location of the magazine housing inside the pistol grip. By placing more weight over the chamber upward climb during recoil was reduced.

The weapon has natural pointing traits because the point of balance is directly above the grip. The Uzi magazine, an adaptation from Beretta submachine guns, is of the two-position-feed type. This makes it easy to load and minimum bolt energy is required to strip rounds from this type of magazine. With these excellent characteristics, why reinvent the wheel?

The BRS-99

The BRS-99 is related to the Uzi, but cannot be mistaken for one. The BRS-99 is grey phosphate finished and comes with a canvas hip/thigh holster and as such makes it useful for armoured vehicle crews where an assault rifle is too cumbersome. It also comes with a sling, cleaning kit, 15-round magazine and a magazine pouch with three additional 25-round magazines.

The magazines are Uzi type but lighter and support a last shot hold-open device designed into the carbine. This hold-open device itself makes the BRS-99 a superior improvement over the Uzi or even the MP5. Compared to an Uzi magazine, the BRS-99 magazine is cut and opened up on the left side, the follower has a detent for the hold-open device, and it locks into the pistol grip by a thumb-activated release, much like an autoloading pistol. The magazine release button can be applied in reverse for southpaws, and so the magazine has locking cuts in both sides of the magazine. The user can easily determine the number of rounds in the magazine by inspecting the view holes numbered 2,5,7,9,11,13,15,21 and 25.

The BRS-99 is a semiautomatic-only 9x19mm Parabellum carbine with a fire selector marked “Z” for safe and “P” for single shot. Unlike previous models, there is only one cocking handle and it is on the left side of the receiver. Upon firing, the empty casing is ejected to the right with considerable force due to its fixed ejector.

The BRS-99 has a plastic pistol grip with an Egyptian archer logo on it and a large plastic modular fore grip that can optionally fit within it a Lucznik laser sight, or an American Sure Fire L-60 tactical light.

The folding stock is made of wire but is actually more rigid than it looks. It is pulled out of the receiver and pivoted down until it locks. An AKMS-type button locks it. The stock is longer than the Uzi’s and therefore quite comfortable but not as robust. The butt is covered with non-slip rubber padding.

Southpaws using the trigger finger can reach the magazine release and hold-open device with ease, but not the safety. This oversight should be corrected if the Poles are serious in making a modern firearm. There is no provision for a bayonet on the BRS-99.

Unlike the Pm-84, there are only two sight settings on the BRS-99 – a notch for 75 meters and peep for 150 meters. The front sight is a post-type and it can be adjusted. The receiver is stamped sheet metal and the lower receiver separates much like that of the Uzi. The trigger/hammer/sear arrangement is clearly Kalashnikov inspired.

How does BRS-99 compare?

It is inevitable that the BRS-99 will be compared with other Uzi-type firearms. Even Uziel Gal, the Uzi’s designer, was not satisfied with the Uzi and looked to improve it. The main change would be to lighten the Uzi, offer closed-bolt operation as an option, and make it more compact. Add compensating slots in the top of the muzzle and you have the Mini Uzi. Even smaller, the Micro Uzi is too tiny to be useful by a military force, but two other Uzis are noteworthy.

A Mini Uzi variant is offered in 9mm and .40 S&W as the Uzi America/Mossberg First Responder Police Carbine/Individual Officer Carbine. The two are identical closed bolt carbines except for barrel length. What we have here is a Mini Uzi with a fixed stock for police duty.

The Ruger MP-9 was Uziel Gal’s latest vision for a lighter, more compact and enhanced Uzi. Gal (of URDA) contracted Canada’s Diemaco to work with him in the design of his new submachine gun designated the 201, or as it is unofficially called, the NEWZI. The complete design was finished at Diemaco under his supervision and a final set of toleranced production drawings, tooling, and prototype test samples of the weapon were produced.

This was a 9mm or 10mm submachine gun that had a low rate of fire, was holsterable and could be fired off hand with good accuracy. Diemaco worked for about a year and a half on this project. When military sales were not forthcoming for the UZI 201, the URDA sold the rights, tooling and technical data to Ruger, which now produce the weapon.

The MP-9 is fired from the closed bolt to increase accuracy. The lower receiver is made from Zytel polymer while the upper receiver is made from stainless steel. The buttstock is redesigned to fold and telescope.

With the BRS-99, you have the best Uzi variant. It is the lightest, has a hold-open device, is accurate due to its closed-bolt operation, is mostly ambidextrous, its magazines fall free when the magazine release button is depressed, and is designed from the beginning to be optically enhanced.

The BRS-99 grips are ergonomically designed, but a fixed butt stock option would be beneficial. That is because the stock is functional but nowhere as good as the Uzi’s. Perhaps the Poles can make a modular two-piece stock that goes over the wire stock?

The magazine-well of the BRS-99 is bevelled at the front, but the firearm would be improved if it were more flared. The magazines do not have side stoppers like Uzi magazines (but one rear) and so this could easily be achieved.

Considering the firearm in its Pm-99 form, its 640-rpm rate is useful and not wasteful. It seemed that the enhanced Uzis just kept getting faster and faster.

On the Range

The BRS-99 is definitely a curiosity at the local range and many onlookers wanted to see how it worked – somewhat unidentifiable short-barrelled military rifles can do that.

The double-column magazine loads easily and slides easily into the pistol grip. The safety is switched to “P” since the bolt cannot move otherwise. Grasping the cocking handle, pull the bolt to the rear and release. The bolt will move forward upon spring influence and load the chamber. This is a closed-bolt weapon with an internal hammer and so the chamber is now loaded and no dirt can enter through the ejection port.

For the test and evaluation, both Winchester 115-grain FMJ and Spanish Santa Bárbara 112-grain FMJ cartridges were used. During the test, there were no failures in this new-in-the-box test sample whatsoever. Each empty case ejected out the large ejection port and landed about 15 feet to the right.

When used as a rifle, accuracy was quite acceptable. For the test, four groups of five rapid shots were initially placed on target at 50 meters. These groups averaged 2.7 inches with both loads. The trigger was firm and consistent with every shot. The BRS-99 was then shot at 100 and 150 meters, where the 100-meter (109.36-yard) groups averaged 12.19 centimetres (4.8 inches). These results were, of course, using only the iron sights and so one wonders what is possible with the Lucznik laser and/or an Aimpoint.

The magazine follower operates a plunger that retains the bolt in the rear position when the ammunition supply is exhausted. Press the magazine release button and the empty magazine literally kicks out of the pistol grip. Inserting a fresh magazine and depressing the Hold Open Device brings the bolt forward.

Field stripping

The BRS-99 strips very easily. Anyone familiar with the Uzi or AKs can do it on first sight. First, the recoil buffer apparatus is exposed on both sides of the receiver where it locks inside two channels. To remove the top cover, move this “breech casing cover catch” forward and down. Pull upward at the rear portion of the top cover and the cover comes off where it locks in a slot at the front (like the AK). Press the breech casing cover catch forward to unhook it, and remove the spring assembly. Pull the bolt to the rear until it is free from its rails. Lift and remove the bolt. Press the barrel nut catch and unscrew the barrel nut. Draw out the barrel from the receiver. Next, only if needed, press out the connector/expander pin on the lower receiver that connects the upper and lower receivers. The fore stock is removed with a screwdriver.

One will notice the obvious features of a closed bolt weapon: it has a spring-retracted firing pin like a pistol and not a fixed firing pin like most submachine guns. The bolt handle is fixed to the bolt. The trigger group is responsive and reminiscent of the AKM.

Worthy successor?

The Uzi is without a doubt a great military firearm. Yet the Poles are hungry to put their Communist ways behind them and make great guns for the open market. For many years, unsavoury nations like Yemen, Sudan, Somalia and Eritrea have been the main recipients of Polish weapons. For fear of a negative reaction from its NATO allies, Poland is looking to new markets (the Poles don’t even make 5.45x39mm ammo anymore). It also has a highly trained work force eager to maintain profitability during restructuring and privatization in order to keep their own jobs.

As a result, Polish arms are very good. With the Pm-99 and BRS-99, Lucznik-Radom has created a reliable and accurate firearm with the best characteristics of the Uzi. The Uzi is hence taken to its pinnacle, perfected and modernized to be the next generation of pistol caliber close quarters combat weaponry.

Additional color photographs of the BRS-99 and an MPEG video can be found at www.blackpowdersports.com/writer.htm. The author can be contacted at wfpaddy@hotmail.com.