Author Anthony Vanderlinden has definitely set a high standard for firearms reference books with his latest release. One glance at the new expanded two-volume set of books titled FN Browning Pistols, Sidearms That Shaped World History is enough to see this has been a true labor of love for Vanderlinden.

Vanderlinden’s publishing company, Wet Dog Publications, has rightfully earned a solid reputation for high quality books on arms related to the FN firm. I have previously reviewed books covering FN Mauser rifles, the FN-49 rifle, the Polish VIS Radom pistol, and the earlier 2^nd edition of FN Browning pistols. (This second edition was reviewed in V21N3, April 2017.)  All these have been fine books, combining solid research with beautiful photography and layout. And yet, this new third edition goes above and beyond even Wet Dog’s high standards.

With the third edition having over double the material as compared to the second edition, it should come at no surprise that each book is oversize at 9.25 x 12.25 inches (235 x 310mm). The total page count is 840 pages. It also features 2790 color and period (B&W) photos.

Upon opening, the first thing you notice is that the pages are color-coded. The chapters are broken down by color, and the top of each page is colored accordingly.

Volume I begins with a long detailed section on history, then biographies of important people tied to FN, followed by production, sales network, and accessories.

Volume II covers the pistols themselves, with chapters on John M. Browning prototypes, the Models 1899, 1900, 1903, 1907, 1905, 1910, 1910 Grand Browning, 1922, Baby Browning, Le Grand Rendement (High Efficiency), High Power, the 100 Series, and an Engraving Gallery. The entire table of contents is repeated in both volumes. The page numbering runs continuously through both volumes, as does the color-coded pages.

Chapter 1 delves into the rich history of gun-making in Liege, Belgium, the Industrial Revolution as it applied to Liege, and the formation of FN to build the 1889 Mauser rifle under licence. During the early years, FN also built bicycles, motorcycles, and cars, as well. This is all documented in detail. The Sarajevo Affair covers the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife Duchess Sophie Chotek that caused WWI. The pistol that the killer used was an FN Browning Model 1910.

Following this, chapter 1B covers The Great War: 1914-1918. Chapter 1C looks at the interwar years in Interbellum: 1919-1940. More cars, motorcycles, and even buses and typewriters are mentioned. Of course, small arms are covered, as are licence-built Bofors 40mm anti-aircraft cannons. Additional sub-chapters cover WWII including the takeover of the factory by the German army, the liberation of the factory in late 1944, and the postwar era. The entire History chapter is approximately 140 pages and covers a lot of ground.

Starting with master firearms designer John M. Browning, chapter 2 introduces us to various members of the FN team. Besides Browning’s son Val Browning, and assistant Dieudonne Saive, others such as Felix Funken, head of the engraving shop, and Auguste Benard, the artist behind much of the advertising posters and catalogs are introduced.

Chapter 3, Proofs and Markings, is a short, just 16 pages, but detailed look at proof marks, acceptance marks, and German occupation marks. Before spending a lot on a pistol, a thorough study of markings would be a very good idea.

Next is FN Production Processes. This is broken down into finishes, slide legends, serial and contract numbers, production years by model and serial number, and grips. There are many varieties of grips shown in full color, and quite a few have a counterfeit alert notation along side. Forgeries exist! Be warned.

Chapter 5, FN’s Sales Network, starts with the participation of FN in various World’s Fairs in the late 1800s and early 1900s. These fairs were a great way for companies and countries to show off their products. The book features a wonderful assortment of old sepia tone (B&W with a brown tinge) photos of FN-built cars, bikes, motorcycles, and pistols. Also shown are various presentation gifts like keychains and gold-plated cufflinks with small pistols attached, ashtrays and matches with the FN logo… and even cigars!

Volume I ends with Chapter 6, Accessories. This is broken down to include prewar FN catalogs, manuals, factory boxes, factory presentation cases, magazines, tools and cleaning rods, shoulder-stocks, pocket holsters, and finally belt and shoulder holsters. This section has an astonishing number of items featured, enough to make serious FN collectors envious.

Volume II is entirely focused on the firearms. Chapter 7 examines the prototypes of JMB. Many of these hand-made guns can be seen at the John M. Browning Firearms Museum in Ogden, UT. (While this book deals with entirely pistols, the museum also displays long arms and several early full autos as well.)

I found it amazing that the earliest of these early prototypes (1894 dated) is fast approaching 130 years old. Over a dozen models are shown, most photographed from three views (left, right, and top). (A few models have an extra close-up view of a particular detail). All are arranged in chronological order. This is to allow you to see the progression of improvements through the years. Unfortunately, none are disassembled to show the innards.

The following chapters discuss the development process, serial number sequences, various slide markings, international orders, and many other points of interest relating to the many models of pistols produced over the years.

A nice idea that has been included is a “see also” notation that directs you to various accessories, etc. I think of this as a manual “hotlink.”

The High Power chapter, at just over 100 pages is divided into three sub-chapters. These are prewar, Wartime, and Postwar. Incidentally, there is a sidebar that clarifies the correct terminology of the High Power. Belgian FN made, and Canadian made John Inglis marked pistols are always spelled High. Only the post-war American made, by Browning Arms Company are marked Hi-Power.

At first, I was surprised to note that there is almost nothing on the Colt M1911. However, this does make sense as the main subject is FN Browning, not Colt products. There is a chapter on the FN Modéle 1910 Grand Browning, however, which is the immediate predecessor to the M1911.  

The final chapter is a gallery of finely engraved pistols. There are some fantastic examples of the engraver’s art shown. These are often factory presentation models or sales samples. Many have either ivory or mother-of-pearl grips, and several have gold inlay. This looks very impressive when contrasted against deep dark blueing.  

As I have noted in previous reviews, all of Wet Dog’s titles are proudly printed and bound in the United States. Vanderlinden feels very strongly about this, even if it does add to the cost. Speaking of cost, yes, this set is certainly is getting up in price. However, it must be noted that high quality, limited printing reference books hold their value and often gain value once they sell out. A look online for other respected gun books shows they often double or even triple in cost. As well, by consulting this book prior to buying an expensive firearm or accessory, you might well avoid the pain of getting burned by a forgery. This may well pay for this set right there.

If you are fan of FN guns, especially sidearms, this 2-volume set is HIGHLY recommended.

Final thoughts… With the closing down of Collector Grade Publications in early 2022, their 3-volume set on the FN-FAL rifle is not likely to be reprinted. It is my hope that Wet Dog will consider filling the void and publish a top quality, highly researched book about the FAL rifle.

Barrett

MK22

The MK22 defines a new class of long-range rifles by providing even greater capability within the MRAD rifle platform. With unfailing precision and sub-MOA performance, this bolt action sniper rifle adapts to a variety of user needs by converting between 7.62 x 51 NATO, .300NM and .338NM calibers. The aluminum chassis features a folding stock with adjustable length of pull and cheek piece, M-Lok attachment system, 10-mil rail, and suppressor capable muzzle brake. 

• Calibers: .338NM, .300NM, and 7.62×51 NATO
• Barrel Length: .338NM: 27in, .300NM: 26in, and 7.62×51 NATO: 20in
• Twist Rate: .338NM: 1:9.4in, .300NM: 1:8in, and 7.62×51 NATO: 1:8in
• Magazine: 10 Round
• Stock Notes:  Folding
• Finish: Coyote
• Weight (w/empty mag.): .338NM: 15.2lbs, .300NM: 15.2lbs, and 7.62×51 NATO: 13.9lbs
• Overall Length: .338NM: 49.4in, .300NM: 48.4in, and 7.62×51 NATO: 42.4in
• MSRP: $18,300
• barrett.net

Barrett

MRAD SMR

Built with a specific purpose in mind. The MRAD SMR (Single Mission Rifle) is a fixed caliber and stock rifle system that is focused on the task-at-hand with 5-shot sub-MOA performance. The simplified package retains 90 percent parts commonality with the standard MRAD and offers the user a choice between seven dedicated calibers and three Cerakote colors.

• Calibers: .338LM, .338NM, .300NM, .300PRC, .300WM, .308Win, and 6.5CM
• Barrel Length: .338LM: 26in, .338NM: 26in, .300NM: 26in, .300PRC: 26in, .300WM: 26in, .308Win: 17in / 24in, and 6.5CM: 24in
• Twist Rate: .338LM: 1:9.4in, .338NM: 1:9.4in, 300NM: 1:8in, .300PRC: 1:8in, .300WM: 1:8in, .308Win: 1:8in, and 6.5CM: 1:8in
• Magazine: 10 Round
• Stock Notes: Fixed
• Finish: Black, Tungsten Grey, and Flat Dark Earth
• Weight (w/empty mag.): .338LM: 12.3lbs, .338NM: 12.3lbs, .300NM: 12.3lbs, .300PRC: 12.3lbs, .300WM: 12.3lbs, .308Win: 10.6lbs / 12.0lbs, and 6.5CM: 12.0lbs
• Overall Length: .338LM: 48.5in, .338NM: 48.5in, .300NM: 48.5in, .300PRC: 48.5in, .300WM: 48.5in, .308Win: 39.5in / 46.5in, and 6.5CM: 46.5in
• MSRP: $4,995
• barrett.net

Black Rain Ordnance

SSP

The Black Rain Ordnance SSP is part of Black Rain’s Spec+ Series. This series has over 100 different build configurations and 24 different finish options to choose from. If you are looking to add something special to your arsenal without breaking the bank, the BRO-SSP and the Spec+ Series has proven to be a great choice.

• Calibers: 5.56×45 NATO and .300BLK
• Barrel Length: 16in
• Twist Rate: 1:7in
• Barrel Notes: SOCOM Profile 4150V Chromoly Barrel
• Trigger Weight: BRO 3.5lb Drop-in Trigger
• Stock Notes:  Magpul MOE SL stock
• Finish: FDE. Also available in seven other colors/finishes.
• Weight (w/empty mag.): 7lbs 8oz
• Overall Length: 34.5in
• MSRP: $1,399
• blackrainordnance.com

Black Rain Ordnance

SUBATOMIC

The Black Rain Ordnance Subatomic is Black Rain’s elite tactical pistol for the shooter who values the highest quality and craftsmanship. Built on a foundation of 7075 T-6 billet aluminum receivers with nothing but the best options available to build the firearm that you have always dreamed of. If you are looking for top tier quality and a variety of color options, the Black Rain Ordnance Subatomic is the choice for you.

• Calibers: 5.56×45 NATO and .300BLK
• Barrel Length: 10.5in
• Twist Rate: 1:7in
• Barrel Notes: Stainless Steel Barrel
• Trigger Weight: BRO 3.5lb Drop-in Trigger
• Stock Notes: Maxim Defense CQB Pistol Brace
• Finish: Battleworn Smith’s Grey. Also available in eight other colors/finishes.
• Weight (w/empty mag.): 6lbs 14oz
• Overall Length: 27in
• MSRP: $1,959
• blackrainordnance.com

Christensen Arms

Modern Precision Rifle

The Modern Precision Rifle is an ultra-lightweight chassis rifle designed to break tradition. Beyond the folding stock, the complete package is well equipped with a target contour Christensen Arms carbon fiber barrel, carbon fiber comb, free-floating carbon fiber handguard, and 20-MOA rail. The action and stainless-steel side-baffle muzzle brake are finished in black nitride for a sleek look. The Modern Precision Rifle weighs in starting at 6.9 pounds and is backed by the Christensen Arms Sub-MOA Guarantee.

• Calibers: 6CM, 6.5CM, .308WIN, .300WIN, .300PRC, .338LM
• Barrel Length: 16-27in
• Twist Rate: 1:8in, 1:10in
• Barrel Notes: 416R stainless-steel
• Magazine: AICS-compatible detachable magazine
• Trigger Notes: Trigger Tech “Flat” Trigger
• Stock Notes:  Folding stock with locking hinge and Magnelock Technology
• Finish: Action finish: Black nitride with chassis finish options of Black Anodize, Desert Brown Anodize, or Tungsten Anodize
• Weight (w/empty mag.): Starting at 6.9lbs
• Overall Length: 44.75in extended, 34in folded
• MSRP: $2,500
• christensenarms.com

CZ-USA

600 Range

The CZ 600 Range was designed to give the precision shooter every possible opportunity to take full advantage of the accuracy of the platform. The cold hammer forged heavy barrel delivers the best accuracy guarantee ever offered by CZ. Sub ¾-MOA guaranteed at 100 meters, 5-shot group with match-grade factory ammo, verified on every CZ 600 Range.

• Calibers: 6CM, .308WIN
• Barrel Length: 24in
• Twist Rate: 1:7in, 1:10in
• Barrel Notes: Heavy, cold hammer-forged, suppressor ready 5/8×24-threaded
• Magazine: Detachable, locking
• Trigger Weight: 1.3-3lbs end-user adjustable
• Stock Notes: Laminate, Precision
• Finish: Black Nitride
• Weight (w/empty mag.): 10lbs
• Overall Length: 44.9in
• MSRP: $1,199
• cz-usa.com

CZ-USA

457 VPT MTR

Always a favorite in our rimfire line, the Varmint Precision Trainer gets a boost in accuracy with the addition of a barrel borrowed from the Match Target Rifle. With a match chamber and a stiff 16.2-inch heavy barrel, it’s threaded 1/2×28 to allow easy installation of a suppressor or muzzle device. New for 2022, the Manners carbon fiber stock now features an adjustable cheekpiece. The forend is recessed, drilled, and threaded for use with an Arca rail.

• Caliber: .22LR
• Barrel Length: 16.2in
• Twist Rate: 1:16in
• Barrel Notes: Cold Hammer Forged
• Magazine: Detachable
• Trigger Weight: 2.5-5lbs, end-user adjustable
• Stock Notes:  Manners Carbon Fiber
• Finish: Black Nitride
• Weight (w/empty mag.): 7.1lbs
• Overall Length: 33.5in
• MSRP: $1,635
• cz-usa.com

FN

FN SCAR 20S NRCH

Perfectly calibrated for long-range fire, the FN SCAR 20S NRCH (Non-Reciprocating Charging Handle) delivers surgical precision, with an enhanced set of controls to enable any shooting position or optic choice. The rifle features a monolithic upper receiver with full-length MIL-STD-1913 rail for accessories and fully adjustable precision buttstock. The FN SCAR 20S is the benchmark for long-range precision from a gas-driven piston platform, delivering an accurate and proven design for target shooting.

• Calibers: 7.62×51 NATO, 6.5CM
• Barrel Length: 20in
• Twist Rate: 1:10in (7.62×51 NATO), 1:8in (6.5CM)
• Barrel Notes: Heavy-profile, cold hammer-forged and chrome-lined
• Magazine: 10-round SCAR 17S magazine; compatible with 20-round SCAR 17S magazine
• Trigger Weight: 3.5 – 4.5lbs two-stage trigger
• Stock Notes:  Precision rear stock, fully adjustable for LOP and cheek rest height
• Finish: Anodized aluminum, FDE or Black
• Weight (w/empty mag.): 11.6lbs
• Overall Length: 41-42.8in
• MSRP: $4,829
• fnamerica.com

Grey Ghost Precision

GGP MKII Grim 6.5 Creedmoor

After experiencing the accuracy potential of Grey Ghost Precision rifles, several competitive shooters in the precision rifle realm desired a gas gun in a 6.5 caliber with all the advantages of a modern semi-automatic sporting rifle – without compromising accuracy, consistency, and performance. GGP worked hard to produce the GRIM, an extremely accurate 6.5 Creedmoor rifle built on the AR-10 platform that fit specific requests from experienced snipers and precision rifle shooters.

• Caliber: 6.5CM
• Barrel Length: 22in
• Twist Rate: 1:8in
• Barrel Notes: Proof Research Stainless Steel 6.5CM barrel with extended rifle length gas length. Threaded 5/8×24.
• Magazine: Magpul PMAG 20 LR/SR Gen M3 Magazine (also accepts most LR/SR type magazines)
• Trigger Weight: 2lb first stage, 2lb second stage
• Stock Notes:  Magpul PRS Gen 3 Precision Adjustable Stock
• Finish: True Back Type III Mil Spec Hard Coat Anodize
• Weight (w/empty mag.): 10lbs
• Overall Length: 44in
• MSRP: $3,199
• greyghostprecision.com

Grey Ghost Precision

GGP MKII Heavy .308 Win

The first “Heavy” rifle was built at the request from U.S. soldiers operating in Afghanistan who wanted a designated marksman rifle (DMR) that could match the accuracy of bolt action .308 platforms used in combat, while still resembling a 5.56 service rifle. The resulting rifle bolstered troops’ effective range in multiple intermediate range engagements. The GGP Heavy has received glowing evaluations by Special Forces marksmanship instructors, competitive shooters, and hardcore hunters alike.

• Caliber: .308Win
• Barrel Length: 16in
• Twist Rate: 1:10in
• Barrel Notes: 16in Ballistic Advantage AR .308 barrel with mid length gas. Threaded 5/8×24.
• Magazine: Magpul PMAG 20 LR/SR Gen M3 Magazine (also accepts most LR/SR type magazines)
• Trigger Weight: 3-4lbs
• Stock Notes:  Magpul SL-S Adjustable Stock
• Finish: True Back Type III Mil Spec Hard Coat Anodize
• Weight (w/empty mag.): 8.3lbs
• Overall Length: 38in (collapsed stock 35in)
• MSRP: $2,500
• greyghostprecision.com

Heckler & Koch

MR762A1 LRP III

Taking an essentially standard MR762A1 (7.62×51 NATO) semi-automatic rifle, Heckler & Koch USA turns the MR762A1 LRPIII into a more effective precision rifle by an astute addition of the right optics and accessories. A Vortex Viper PSTII 3-15×44 FFP MRAD, HK G28 adjustable cheekpiece buttstock, and LaRue Tactical BRM-S bipod are the primary add-ons that make the MR762A1 Long Rifle Package (LRP) more than a sum of parts.

• Caliber: 7.62×51 NATO
• Barrel Length: 16.5in
• Twist Rate: Right twist, 1:11.02in
• Barrel Notes: 4 lands & grooves, right twist, 1 in 11.02in
• Magazine: 10/20 rounds
• Trigger Weight: 3.5 – 4.5lb two-stage trigger
• Finish: Nitride
• Weight (w/empty mag.): 10.42lb
• Overall Length: Stock extended: 40.50in; Stock retracted: 36.50in.
• MSRP: $7,249
• hk-usa.com

Maxim Defense Industries

MD11

New for 2022 Maxim Defense Industries is launching their Direct Impingement large frame MD-11 series made on the SR-25 cut pattern. This large frame rifle will be available in 6.5 Creedmoor or 308 Winchester utilizing 18-inch Proof Research carbon fiber or stainless-steel barrels allowing them to come in at just 9 pounds. They come with a carbine buffer system and a B5 SOP-MOD stock and utilize the Gisselle SSA-E trigger. They are available in Urban, Arid, and Black.

• Calibers: 6.5CM, .308Win
• Barrel Length: 18in
• Barrel Notes: Stainless Steel or Carbon Fiber
• Trigger Weight: 2.9 – 3.8lbs
• Finish: Urban Grey, ARID
• Weight (w/empty mag.): 9lbs
• Overall Length: 37in
• MSRP: $3,895-4,295
• maximdefense.com

Mossberg

MVP Precision bolt-action rifle

The Mossberg MVP Precision bolt-action rifle, chambered in 6.5CM and 7.62×51 NATO, was built with a purpose in mind – precision. Features include an aluminum chassis and slim-profile hand guard, LUTH-AR MBA-3 adjustable stock, and a Magpul MOE+ grip. And unlike the competition, this bolt-action, with its multi-patented design, will accept both M1A/M14 and AR10/SR25-style magazines. Combining sub-MOA accuracy, superior-handling and Mossberg’s proven bolt-action platform, the MVP Precision takes long-range shooting to a new level.

• Calibers: 6.5CM, 7.62×51 NATO
• Barrel Length: 24in, 20in
• Twist Rate: 1:8in, 1:10in
• Barrel Notes: Medium Bull/Threaded/Protective Cap
• Magazine: 10-Round Magpul PMAG
• Trigger Weight: Adjustable, 3 to 7lbs
• Stock Notes:  LUTH-AR MBA-3 Adjustable Stock; Magpul MOE+ grip
• Finish: Anodized and matte blue metal finishes, black synthetic
• Weight (w/empty mag.): 10lbs; 9.2lbs
• Overall Length: 43.25in; 39.25in 
• MSRP: $1,509
• mossberg.com

It was hot and unusually humid in Springfield, Massachusetts during the summer of 1953. Yet, it was not nearly as sweltering as most of the summers he had endured back in his home state of Alabama. Weather aside, LTC Roy E. Rayle took an early liking to his new assignment. His wife and two young sons were in love with the beautiful on-post housing supplied by the Army, and his new job was challenging, exciting, and important. He was to direct 350 people in the Research and Development of small arms at the Springfield Arsenal. He had leadership training from the Army and a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech. He felt well prepared for any challenge.

In his first job briefing, the Colonel in charge updated him on the status of the programs now under his control. It was a glowing report, with no major challenges on the horizon. Two Springfield Armory-designed guns in trials at Ft Benning were reportedly doing very well. The T161 machine gun and the T44 rifle were both undergoing user tests there. These two would later be designated the M60 machine gun, and the M14 rifle, respectively. Assuming successful trials, these would become the first small arms in U.S. history chambered for the new 7.62mm NATO round. Rayle’s predecessor had decided not to send a representative to the test site for technical support and feedback. As a result, not much had been heard from Ft. Benning since the testing began. Everyone assumed that the tests were going well. Going so well, in fact, that his new boss spent most of their meeting time reviewing the other developmental weapons now under Rayle’s direction.

LTC Rayle enjoyed a blissful honeymoon that lasted a full two days. Suddenly, the Armory received an urgent and most disturbing phone call from U.S. Army Ordnance’s Chief of Small Arms Research and Development, Colonel René Studler. TheT44 was performing poorly in testing. A Pentagon representative was already on his way to the test site and Springfield Armory was to immediately dispatch a representative to Ft. Benning. Who would they send? The new guy, of course, LTC Roy Rayle.

Once at Ft. Benning, it didn’t take Rayle long to figure out the major problem. The T44 was having cartridge feeding issues that stemmed from too much friction in the magazine. Rayle asked them, “How much time do we have to fix the problem.” He didn’t like the answer. Only eleven days of testing remained. Results had to be tallied and submitted to Army Field Forces headquarters at Ft. Monroe, VA. Ft. Benning had been directed to follow a rigid timeline.

It wasn’t only the gun that was having a problem. Since his arrival there, Rayle sensed a certain animosity from the test crew. It wasn’t toward him necessarily, but rather it was directed toward Springfield Arsenal. After he examined the T44 test weapons more closely, he understood why. The rifle was far from production ready. T44 receivers had been made from an earlier prototype, the T20E2 that used the longer M1 round (.30-06). To reduce the bolt travel in the rifle for the shorter 7.62mm NATO round (.308 Winchester,) filler blocks had been placed inside the receiver. The fix worked well enough. That is, right up to the point where the blocks loosened and caused malfunctions. This was only the beginning. Designers at the Armory had taken other shortcuts that made it blatantly obvious the T44 was little more than a cobbled-up prototype. In stark contrast was the rifle submitted by the competitor. The entry from Fabrique Nationale (FN) of Belgium was a well-made and well-thought out design. FN’s rifle was designed for in line firing that directed the recoil load straight into the shoulder. This greatly aided the shooter in controlling the weapon’s hefty recoil. The rifle we know today as the FAL was then designated by the Army as the T48. It featured smooth feeding, and a simple operating mechanism that was easy to field strip and service. The general consensus at Ft. Benning was that the Belgian design was far more mature than the T44 and better prepared for user tests at Ft. Benning. The test crew welcomed the amiable on-site FN representative and viewed his presence as part of FN’s commitment to winning the competition.

The Belgians had spent their own money on the development of the T48, making numerous design changes in answer to every whim of the American military. They converted their original design from the .280 British round and developed a simple top loading magazine charging clip that the Americans demanded. FN spared no expense in producing test prototypes for the Army and arranged for their top designer, Mr. Ernst Vervier, to be on standby at the test site to oversee weapon repair and to answer questions.

American regulations made the testing unfair to FN. As the Belgian company was foreign owned, the company was not allowed to obtain any of the information from the classified test results. FN was allowed to know how their own T48 was doing, but no information was provided as to how the T44 was faring. In spite of this, FN’s Managing Director, Mr. René Laloux, somehow knew a great deal about how the testing was going, stating at the end of this sequence of testing, “….between the two rifles, T44 and T48 FN, the final conclusions were in favour of the F.N. rifle.”

Before Rayle left Ft. Benning, the Colonel in charge pulled him aside to receive one more embarrassing admonishment. This time it was for the shabby performance by Springfield Armory on the T161 machine gun prototypes. Like the T44’s, these were failing miserably, too. There were failures to feed, broken firing pins, and ruptured cartridges that spewed debris all over the test cell. The weapon was not only performing poorly, but engineering support was lacking. What about that tripod Springfield sent for the machine gun tests, the Colonel demanded? His test crew was expecting a new design but received a cobbled up tripod instead. What was the Armory doing with all of its time and money? Rayle had no answers and none of it was his fault, of course, but now he was in charge of R&D and he now owned all the blame. Rayle was not even three weeks on the job and his two major programs were already in big trouble. It was an embarrassment; for him, and for the Springfield Armory.

LTC Rayle returned to Springfield on 20 July, anxious to get his team working on solutions to the T44’s problems. He began with a briefing on the history of the weapon. It was not a happy tale. The original design intent was to develop a .30 caliber rifle weighing no more than 7 pounds that offered semi and full automatic fire. Design goals included: reduce coil, accommodation of a new short round, and firing from a detachable box magazine. The purpose of the new rifle was to replace the M1 Rifle, the BAR, the M2 Carbine, and the M3A1 .45 caliber submachine gun. Four weapons and three different calibers replaced by a single weapon. This would greatly improve logistic support in the field. Since the end of World War II, numerous rifle designs had been developed and trialed until only the T44 remained.

“Who is the engineer in charge of the T44?” Rayle demanded. There was no single answer. The project started and stopped so often and priorities shifted so much that there really wasn’t one individual who followed the program from the beginning to now. John Garand had been responsible for some of the early designs, and Earl Harvey for some of the others. Garand had retired only a couple of weeks before Rayle came to Springfield, and was no longer available to the team.

The rifle’s status was a confusing mess that was compounded by the military’s “big picture.” How was the war with Japan brought to an end? It was with the atomic bomb, of course. There was a new thinking and general consensus by the military’s top brass. Wars would now be fought and won with nuclear weapons. Small arms would only be needed for a short cleanup with rifle wielding soldiers. What rifle did they need? For a totally demoralized enemy, almost any firearm would do.

As Rayle planned the direction forward, more bad news arrived. Classified Ft. Benning test results had been leaked to Newsweek magazine. The 20 July 1953 issue featured an article claiming that the Belgian T48 was far ahead of the American T44, and predicted it would soon be announced that FN was the winner. Those at the Armory doubted the veracity of the report. Long afterwards, they learned that the Newsweek article was totally accurate. Ft. Monroe had secretly decided the FN T48 was the winner. They also decided to allow the T44 to continue with the next scheduled round of testing in Arctic conditions, only to serve as a yardstick to gage how much better the T48 would perform in cold weather conditions.

At the end of August, Rayle gathered his group together and offered them three options: The first one was to build up some repair parts to refurbish the guns after testing and submit the guns for trial in the same configuration. The second was to address the gun’s major problems so the rifle would not be a total embarrassment to Springfield Armory. The third option was to use the remaining three months to fix everything that was broken. This included testing in both ambient and Arctic conditions with the objective to beat out the FN candidate.

Much was at stake. First and foremost was the avoidance of a huge loss of face for the United States, should a foreign weapon win the competition. Chief of Ordnance, General Ford, was already taking hits from the recent episodes of poor performance of Springfield designs. The decision of Rayle’s team was unanimous. They would pull out all the stops in order to win the Arctic competition. From what he knew of the two designs, Rayle recognized this would not be an easy task. The T44 had to overcome major design problems while the major issues with the FN gun were mostly metallurgical problems. From his engineering background he knew these could easily be solved by material or process changes.

Rayle was no stranger to solving difficult technical problems on a tight schedule. He once undertook a wartime assignment where his job was to discover the cause of mid air bomb collisions. The subsequent detonations, which occurred soon after release, were responsible for downing the very aircraft that dropped them. Rayle worked around the clock, conducting analysis, as well as filming and retrieving dropped bombs. He expeditiously determined the cause and verified the solution. Many bomb crews owe their lives to his timely solution.

To solve T44’s problems he decided on a direct approach, so he listed all of the technical problems in accordance with their severity. Once identified, they would be addressed one by one. Right away it became evident that he would need personnel and manufacturing capacity. Even though he had 300 people working for him, redirecting some of them to the T44 improvement would be detrimental to the schedule for the project they were working on. It wasn’t just warm bodies he needed either. He required top notch design talent – someone with expertise at the level of John Garand. Garand had earlier been approached, but refused after he learned that returning to work at the Armory would require him to give up his retirement pay. Getting Garand back this way was out of the question.

Rayle found a solution that solved both problems at once. A nearby machine shop, Mathewson Tool Company, was well known to the firearms industry for its excellent manufacturing capability. Their reputation was due, to a large extent, to the manufacturing prowess of its owner, Dave Mathewson. Rayle’s solution was simple. Mathewson would get a contract to produce any new T44 components that were needed and John Garand would work for him as a consultant. Garand could still collect his Army retirement along with a paycheck from Mathewson.

The T44’s number one problem was feeding cartridges from the magazine. They all knew that proper feeding is the primary key to the development of a reliable semi or full automatic weapon. Examining the test records, the Springfield team realized that rounds fed poorly from new magazines and much better from ones that were worn in. Their magazine improvement program included some spring and configuration design changes, but the major improvement was the application of what was then a relatively new development; a dry film lubricant called molybdenum disulphide. The new coating provided lubrication while the magazine was new and wore off at the same rate as the magazine wore in. Problem solved!

The buttstock was reinforced to improve it for grenade launching. For the Arctic testing, an enlarged trigger guard was developed to accept a gloved trigger finger. New designs were verified by testing in ambient, dusty, and cold conditions, until acceptable function was achieved. More than once, they found that parts that worked in ambient conditions were totally unreliable at low temperature. Rayle was impressed by the technical expertise of his team. Engineering technicians carefully conducted each test, taking careful notes and changing one thing at a time, so they knew if each individual fix was effective or not. By mid December the much-improved T44’s were sent to Alaska, meeting up with the T48’s that had been sent from the FN plant in Liege, Belgium. This time, Rayle decided, the Springfield team would send technical representatives to support the testing, replacing them every two weeks so that a new pair of eyes were available for a fresh look to address every problem that occurred. Rayle had recalled previous mistakes, and was determined not to repeat them.

As testing got underway, the T44’s were not problem free, but worked much better in the cold conditions than the T48’s, which suffered from a loss of power. These problems were reported to FN who once again dispatched their design expert, Ernst Vervier to witness the problem and hopefully provide a solution. Unfortunately, Mr. Vervier could only come up with one on-site solution to cure the sluggish operation. His only option was to enlarge the gas port to give the weapon more power. Determining the proper gas port diameter on any weapon is a very tricky undertaking, usually requiring extensive testing. Mr. Vervier was well aware of the risk associated with changing it, and knew it was a sword that cut both ways. It solved the immediate power problem but the higher bolt velocity worked all of the components harder causing an increased number of broken parts. Vervier tried to explain them away as normal parts life issues, but the malfunctions stood, counting against the T48 on the competition scorecard.

In spite of the redesigns, there were still plenty of problems with the T44. Those miserable filler blocks that shortened the T20 receiver were continually working loose and grenade launching was still problematic. At the end of February, it was clear that the T44 had come out ahead and was announced the winner of the cold weather testing. Cautious military commanders at the Pentagon recoiled a bit from this latest development. Had they been too hasty in discounting their own American entry? To the joy of Rayle’s team, Ft. Monroe announced that the next round of testing would again include the T44. Possibly this time it might be considered as a serious contender.

Rayle’s visit to command headquarters at Ft. Monroe was a disappointment. Rather than showing any enthusiasm for the success of the American weapon, most of the discussion centered on the Americanization of the T48. It was if the recent T44 success had never happened. The entire U.S. defense industry was based on English inch-system dimensions. With no easy way to introduce a metric-designed weapon into U.S. production, it would be necessary to convert the entire T48 drawing package to the inch-system. At the same time, it was also important to convert the European format drawing into one more recognizable in the U.S. The good news was that the Canadians were interested in helping with these tasks, since they had already decided to adopt the FN design as their service rifle.

To his dismay, he learned that Springfield Armory was to assist in the metric conversion. Now his R&D department faced a huge challenge. It would be necessary for them to do a near perfect job with the conversion. Should even one component be manufactured incorrectly as a result of the conversion, the failure would likely be viewed as an effort to sabotage the competitor. And how would anyone know? Easy. Competing right alongside the U.S. made T48 would be the same metric guns made at the FN factory in Belgium to assure the American conversion was flawless.

Rayle could not let anything jeopardize the non-metric T48 design and subsequent testing. The Armory was already in trouble with Congress and some branches of the military, accused of being wasteful, inefficient, and some even said incompetent. Springfield Armory had no friends in the U.S. firearms industry either. Concerned firearms manufacturers had insisted on a meeting with him, displeased that Springfield Armory was taking work they believed could be more efficiently performed by private industry. A mediocre conversion job could sound the Armory’s death knell.

Rayle went back to Springfield prepared for the direction forward. He would farm out the metric conversion to U.S. industry. The industry would be totally unbiased and if anything, supportive. This would be an opportunity for them to tool up for U.S. production of what might become the next U.S. service rifle. Harrington and Richardson won the contract for the conversion and the production of 500 inch-system T48 rifles.

Undaunted by these new developments, the luxury of additional time and the recent miracle they pulled off with the Arctic testing gave Rayle the time he needed to beat the T48 in the next round of testing. In June of 1954, Dave Mathewson delivered the first T44E4, a rifle with a proper length receiver that had been designed with the aid of John Garand. The T44E4 looked good and was a full pound lighter than the T48.

Excited about the work done by Mathewson and Garand, Rayle took the rifle home that same night to examine it more closely. Sitting in the kitchen with the rifle in his lap, Rayle thought back on the ease at which the FN rifle could be field stripped. “The T44E4 was easy to strip too,” he thought. Or was it? He disassembled the T44E4 a couple more times to convince himself. Then a better idea came to him. Relying on her unfamiliarity with firearms, he asked his wife to leave the dishes for a moment in order to try her hand at it. She succeeded for the most part, but floundered, when trying to remove the bolt.

The next day Rayle called Dave Mathewson and recounted the previous night’s field stripping exercise. Dave agreed to look into it, and sure enough the next models delivered had extra cuts to facilitate disassembly. After thirteen each of the T48’s and T44E4’s were delivered, the guns were sent in opposite directions. Arctic testing would continue in Alaska while Ft. Benning would be supplied five of each type for user testing. By the spring of 1955, it was concluded that the weapons had an equal number of deficiencies, but the Board had a clear preference for the T44. At the conclusion of testing in November 1955 the malfunction rates were: T44–1.4%, inch-system T48–2.4%, and FN made T48-2.4 %.

Design refinements of both weapons and testing continued through most of 1956 with the final report indicating that either rifle was suitable for Army use. The lighter weight, ease of manufacture, non-adjustable gas system, fewer components, and slight edge on reliability gave the Board reasons to make their choice the T44E4. Official notification was not made until June 1957, but by then Rayle had been reassigned as the Ordnance Adviser to the First Field Army of the Republic of China, in Taiwan.

The teams led by LTC Roy E. Rayle had overcome great odds, beating out one of the finest service rifles ever developed. Without his engineering and leadership skills, the history of U.S. small arms would look quite different than it does today.

Small Arms Review is proud to announce several new product releases planned for the 2009 SHOT show, scheduled to take place in Orlando, Florida from January 15-18, 2009. As the largest domestic firearm industry trade show, admission to the Shooting, Hunting, and Outdoor Trade show is limited to those that work within the firearms industry.

Interordnance

Interordnance announced several new rifles for the U.S. civilian market. The STG-22 is a full sized .22 LR caliber AK-style rifle. Manufactured entirely in the U.S., (including the receiver and barrel) the fire control parts are identical to full sized AK rifles. With the increasing cost of 7.62×39 ammunition, the ability to fire cheap and available .22 LR from an AK platform should be welcome to many hard core shooters. The STG-22 uses a proprietary magazine that appears to be related to the East German .22 caliber magazines that are commonly available within the U.S. civilian market. A retail price has not been announced as of press time.

Small Arms Review previously reported the manufacture of semiautomatic MP40 carbines by Sport System Dittrich of Germany. Manufactured to the same original manufacturing dimensions and specifications as the originals, parts and magazines reportedly fit the Sport System Dittrich replicas. Interordnance announced that they have agreed to act as the exclusive U.S. importer for the semiautomatic MP40 carbine. Retail price is expected to be about $6,000.

Century Arms

Century Arms has several newly modified firearms available for the civilian market. The Goryunov SGM (SG43) belt-fed machine gun has been converted to semiautomatic function only using newly manufactured U.S. made receivers, barrels and Polish parts. A Russian designed machine gun chambered in 7.62x54R, the firearm is sold complete with caisson mount, and unique non-disintegrating belt. Century also has three semiautomatic light machine guns – the DP28, DPM, and DTM. Fed from a pan magazine similar to a Lewis gun, these three firearms are also manufactured with new U.S. made receivers, barrels and Polish parts and are chambered in 7.62×39.

The Sterling submachine gun was used with great success by the British Army. Until recently, there were no semiautomatic versions available for sale in the U.S. Century Arms designed and produced a semiautomatic Sterling that qualifies as a non-NFA firearm. Complete with a U.S. made 16-inch barrel and folding stock, the firearm is not an exact replica, but is very close in appearance. The Century Arms Sterling is compatible with existing Sterling magazines, and other accessories.

Adams Arms

Adams Arms revealed an AR-15/M16 piston system at the 2008 SHOT show. For 2009, Adams Arms has a new 7.5-inch AR-15/M16 upper receiver utilizing the gas piston system. Fans of short barreled M16 rifles know that 7.5-inch upper receivers are finicky, and difficult to make run properly. The Adams Arms team reports that their 7.5-inch upper receiver works flawlessly. Retail price for the complete upper was not available as of press time.

Fabrique Nationale

FN has two new rifles that will excite SAR readers. The first new rifle is the FN-AR. Based upon the Browning BAR system, the FN-AR is a .308 caliber, semiautomatic rifle available in a light or heavy barreled configuration. Representatives from FN indicate that law enforcement officers requested a semiautomatic .308 rifle that would fit within a patrol vehicle. With a 20-inch barrel, the FN-AR delivers as requested. FN makes two guarantees of the FN-AR: a 10,000 round barrel life (compared to the 3,500 round barrel life of the Browning BAR) and guaranteed MOA accuracy. The FN-AR utilizes a proprietary 20-round magazine. According to FN representatives, original BAR magazines will not function with the new FN-AR rifle. The FN-AR rifle also uses the ambidextrous magazine release designed for the SCAR rifle system. Retail price for the FN-AR rifle is expected to be $1,399.

Scheduled for public release in mid-December 2008, look for the civilian legal SCAR light rifles from FN. Frequent readers of SAR know that the SCAR rifle system has been under development by FN for several years for the U.S. military. According to FN representatives, the civilian version of the SCAR rifle will be virtually identical to the military version. Two obvious changes to the civilian SCAR rifle include semiautomatic only function and an 18-inch barrel with standard A2-type birdcage flash hider. Suggested retail price as of press time is $2,499.

Serbu Firearms Semiautomatic .50 BMG Rifle

The long anticipated Serbu semiautomatic rifle is reportedly in production. Featuring steel and aluminum construction, the rifle reportedly weighs 25 pounds making the Serbu rifle considerably lighter than many competing semiautomatic .50 caliber rifles. Overall length is reportedly 52.5 inches, with a 26-inch barrel. Utilizing a gas operated, three lug bolt with dual ejectors, the rifle uses standard M82 10-round magazines. Suggested retail is currently $6,700.

American Tactical Imports

Known for importing the GSG-5 carbine, look for the GSG-5 pistol to be on display at SHOT. Manufactured by German Sport Guns of Germany, the GSG-5 variants are near perfect replicas of the full scale 9mm Heckler and Koch versions. Look for a full review of the GSG-5 pistol in a future issue of Small Arms Review.

ATI is offering a dedicated .22 caliber M4 type AR-15/M16 upper receiver with a 16-inch barrel that utilizes Mad Dog .22 caliber magazines. Utilizing a modified bolt and recoil system based upon the Atchisson .22 LR system, the ATI upper receiver will reportedly retail for $300. Unlike other .22 caliber conversions, the ATI conversion utilizes a .22 caliber barrel and eliminates the .223 chamber spacer employed by caliber conversion kits. The kit is reportedly made and manufactured in Italy, and imported exclusively by ATI.

The firearms industry has recently seen many new modifications and caliber offerings in the AR-15 system. ATI has a new .410 caliber shotgun based upon the AR-15 design. Unlike the USAS-12 12-gauge shotgun, the T-14 shotgun is the same size as an AR-15, and makes use of the same fire control parts found on the AR-15. Equipped with a 10-round magazine, the T-14 has an MSRP of $799.

For Glock owners, ATI has secured newly manufactured after-market 15-round and 17-round 9mm Glock magazines. Identical in fit and finish to the original Glock 9mm magazines, a pair of magazines is sold with a magazine pouch for $39.99.

PTR-91, Inc.

PTR, long known for its Heckler and Koch type .308 rifles, has a new rifle available for the U.S. civilian market. The new G3 based rifle is chambered in 7.62×39. Designated the PTR-32, the rifle is available with a 16-inch barrel, Navy-type polymer trigger group, HK-type birdcage flash suppressor, and either a standard or collapsible stock. Most importantly, the rifle reportedly accepts AK-type 7.62mm magazines which are easy and inexpensive to obtain. Suggested retail is $1,240 for the standard stock model, and $1,355 for the collapsible stock model.

The SHOT show is the largest domestic firearm trade show of the year, and visitors can expect to find many new product releases during the show. Please bear in mind that while the information within this article was accurate as of press time, changes within the industry and political climate may result in changes to the final retail price, product offerings, and configurations.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives now recognizes that certain firearm barrels can be used to assemble both importable and non-importable firearms.

Form 6 applications to import firearm barrels that can be used to assemble either an importable or a non-importable firearm will now be approved by the ATF. However, ATF will continue to deny applications to import barrels, frames and receivers of non-importable firearms.

The change in position, which was announced by way of a November 22, 2005 open letter to industry signed by Audrey Stucko, Deputy Assistant Director (Enforcement Programs and Services) at ATF’s Imports Branch, brings an end to a point of contention which was loudly voiced by importers at last July’s annual Importers Conference in Washington, D.C. hosted by ATF. Attendance at this meeting was limited to licensed importers.

ATF has now publicly stated that it believes that such “dual use” barrels would be eligible for importation into the United States under section 925(d)(3) for commercial purposes, provided prospective importers of such barrels make representations indicating that neither the importer, nor subsequent purchasers of the barrels, will use the barrels to assemble non-importable firearms.

Importers of such barrels will have to provide “sufficient information,” e.g., specific model designation(s) of the firearm(s) that the barrels will be used to assemble, in the “Specific Purpose of Importation” section of the ATF Form 6 that would enable ATF personnel to establish that the barrels sought for importation are being imported for assembly into importable firearms.

If the dual use barrels are being imported for resale to third parties, the importer must state in the “Specific Purpose of Importation” section of the ATF Form 6 that purchasers have been or will be advised that the barrels may only be used for assembly into certain importable models and must list the specific models for which the barrels will be sold. Inclusion of a model not known to be sporting may require the submission of a sample for evaluation to determine if importation of the barrels will be approved.

Background

The issue of the non-importability of certain barrels first arose by way of a July 13, 2005 open letter to industry from ATF which advised that the provisions of 18 U.S.C. section 925(d)(3) established the standards for the importation of firearms and ammunition into the United States. In particular, ATF advised section 925(d)(3) provides that the Attorney General shall authorize a firearm to be imported if it meets several conditions: (1) it is not defined as a firearm under the National Firearms Act; (2) it is generally recognized to be particularly suitable for or readily adaptable to sporting purposes; and (3) it is not a surplus military firearm. However, the subsection further provides that “in any case where the Attorney General has not authorized the importation of the firearm pursuant to this paragraph, it shall be unlawful to import any frame, receiver, or barrel of such firearm which would be prohibited if assembled.”

Importers were further advised that ATF had determined that the language of section 925(d)(3) permits no exceptions that would allow the frames, receivers, or barrels for otherwise non-importable firearms to be imported into the United States. As a result, ATF would no longer approve ATF Form 6 import permit applications for importation of any frames, receivers, or barrels for firearms that would be prohibited from importation if assembled. No exceptions to the statutory language, for example for the repair or replacement of existing firearms, were permitted.

A Mixed Blessing

The industry has requested ATF to adopt its former position on the issue of the importation of parts for non-importable firearms since at least the time of the annual Importers Conference last summer. The dual use barrel issue was raised at that time and Ms. Stucko and other ATF personnel present at that meeting promised the industry that they would look into the matter.

Importers expressed disappointment at ATF’s apparent now final decision on the question of whether it would allow the importation of barrels, frames and receivers for otherwise un-importable firearms for the purposes of “repair or replacement” of existing firearms already in the U.S. This former stance (prior to July 2005) was widely known as the “Buckles Doctrine”, as it was the position of the Bureau under its former director, Bradley Buckles.

ATF relented on the matter (somewhat) by way of an August 12, 2005 dated Open Letter to importers in which ATF announced it had decided to extend the time period for importers to act upon previously approved import permits. ATF said the extended period would allow time for importers who had entered into binding contracts in reliance upon approved permits to bring their shipments into the U.S. for entry into commerce.

However, the F.A.I.R. Trade Group, the professional importers’ organization, has continually held that the Buckles Doctrine was a restriction on the trade of goods that could be legally used to assemble lawful firearms and thus contrary to the intent of Congress in regard to the import regulations.

Many believe that ATF’s stance in the matter is an attempt to end the marketing of machine gun kits, as the barrel ban severely affects the importation of barrels for these kits. Without the barrels, the kits become virtually unmarketable, unless the manufacture of barrels is taken up by a U.S. based firm. Such a move, however, would greatly increase the cost of the kits.

There have been allegations that ATF engaged in a “secret” decision making process before making its parts ban decision. Approved permits for the affected parts were allegedly being delayed since January 2005. This caused a situation where businesses were continuing to make purchases of the soon to be affected goods overseas with no idea that ATF planned to deny their import permits.

In a letter to ATF written last July objecting to the move, F.A.I.R.’s president Charles Steen wrote that direct questions to both examiners and to ATF management regarding the perception that permits related to the § 925(d)(3) policy were not being processed were met with either a complete denial of any policy to delay processing of these permits or assertions of ignorance-leaving the industry unaware of pending action.

ATF’s latest stance is not the end of the matter, however, as the industry continues to work for a legislative solution through the F.A.I.R. Trade Group.

Dealer Enters Guilty Plea in Parts Kit Case

During the second week of trial in federal court, the defendant entered a plea of guilty to committing mail fraud involving the illegal transfer of machine guns and giving a false statement to an ATF agent.

United States Attorney Jonathan S. Gasser, stated that Ernest Wrenn, age 56, of North Augusta, South Carolina, has pled guilty in federal court in Columbia, SC to one count of mail fraud involving the illegal transfer of machineguns, a violation of Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 1341; and one count of knowingly making a materially false statement to a federal law enforcement agent regarding a matter within the jurisdiction of the Bureau of ATF. U.S. District Judge Margaret B. Seymour accepted the plea.

Evidence presented during the trial, which started on November 7, 2005, established that on June 20, 2002 ATF Special Agent Baldwin visited Wrenn, owner of Poor Man’s Gun and Pawn Shop, at 614 Atomic Road, North Augusta, S.C., in order to pick up Maxim machine gun kits which had previously been deemed illegal by the ATF Firearms Technology Branch. At that time, the defendant provided Special Agent Baldwin with a written statement in which he falsely represented the number of items from the Maxim machine gun kits that were still in his possession.

On June 28, 2002 a federal search warrant was executed at Poor Man’s Gun & Pawn and the defendant admitted that he was in fact still in possession of the illegal Maxim machine gun parts Special Agent Baldwin had requested. ATF agents said they found two fully assembled Maxim machine guns in the defendant’s possession.

On January 29, 2004, based on new information, ATF agents executed a second search warrant at Poor Man’s Gun & Pawn. The evidence obtained during the second search confirmed that the defendant had engaged in a scheme to defraud customers of their money by falsely representing that the machine gun kits sold by the defendant were approved by ATF. During the first week of trial, the Government called about 15 witnesses from 14 states to testify about their business transactions with the defendant. The witnesses testified that they spent anywhere from $2,500 to $25,000 on the defendant’s products on the basis of the defendant’s representations that his products were legal to possess.

Gasser stated the maximum penalty Wrenn can receive as to the mail fraud count is a fine of $250,000 and imprisonment for twenty years. The maximum penalty for the false statement count is a fine of $250,000 and imprisonment for five years.

Brazilians Vote ‘No’ to Gun Ban

Two thirds of Brazil’s voters have rejected a national referendum held October 23, 2005, which would have banned the sales of most firearms and ammunition in the country.

Campaigners for gun control in Brazil and around the world expressed surprise and disappointment at the result of the referendum in which 64% of the 122 million voters said ‘No’ to banning the sale of firearms and ammunition.

“The financial and marketing power of the gun lobby and the gun industry in Brazil won in the end,” said Rebecca Peters, Director of the International Action Network on Small Arms, a major international organization working for gun control world-wide. “We are disappointed at this lost opportunity to take a dramatic stand against gun violence, but we know the country’s strict new guns laws (implemented in 2003) will continue to help save lives.”

In the 3 weeks leading up to the referendum vote, Brazil’s election law required that each side be allocated equal air-time to promote their arguments. The pro-gun lobby used that period to run a professional television educational campaign.

The referendum was one of the measures contained in a national gun law introduced in December 2003, aimed at the poor that generally made it illegal to carry guns, imposed tighter restrictions for obtaining a gun, and stiffened penalties for using or owning guns illegally. In 2004, 3,200 fewer people died from gunshot wounds, a drop of 8% and the first decrease in 13 years.

The Brazilian referendum is believed to be the first time any country has put its national gun laws to a popular vote. Brazil has the highest number of gun deaths in the world, around 38,000 a year – or more than 100 every day. This is a higher rate than in many conflict zones. It is also the second largest producer of guns in the hemisphere.

Surveys done a month before the vote had shown most people favored the ban but more recent polls swung the other way. Groups favoring the ban accused local arms manufacturers of funding a big gun rights campaign and manipulating fears. The international pro-ban proponents had hoped a successful ‘Yes’ vote would influence gun laws in other developing countries.

If the ban had passed, most sales of guns and ammunition would have been halted, although public safety officers, private security firms, judges and sport clubs would still have been able to buy them.

The number of firearms shops fell over 80 percent to about 250 in Latin America’s largest country from some 1,500 after the new law was enacted in late 2003. It calls for psychological exams, shooting and gun-handling tests, and high registration fees that must be paid periodically. Gun owners are limited to buying only 50 cartridges annually. Gun prices and fees are already prohibitive for most people in Brazil, where the average monthly wage is about $400. In addition to the cost of the gun, buyers have to pay $300 more for registration, exams and a shooting course. These requirements remain in effect, though the near total ban proposed in the referendum was defeated.

In the state of Rio Grande do Sul – home to Taurus and Rossi, Brazil’s two largest firearms manufacturers – the ban was rejected by a ratio of more than four to one.

Violence is rampant throughout Brazil, from the cities to the Amazon jungle. Drug gangs control Rio’s slums – one area is named the “Gaza Strip” because of the frequent clashes. Juvenile delinquents are often dealt with by hired hitmen called “justiceiros” and in the vast interior, land disputes and other scores are settled by hired gunmen known as “pistoleiros.”

It’s estimated there are over 17 million firearms in Brazil, nearly 60% of them illegal. Civilians hold about 4 million registered firearms.

Fiocchi/FN Partner for 5.7x28mm Ammo

Herstal, Belgium-based FN Herstal and Lecco, Italy-based Fiocchi Munizioni S.P.A. have officially signed a cooperative agreement for the manufacturing of 5.7x28mm ammunition by Fiocchi in the United States. The 5.7x28mm ammunition developed and designed by FN Herstal will be marketed under the FN brand name.

The agreement has been expanded to include the U.S. market. Fiocchi of America has begun loading SS196 SR and SS197 SR cartridges in its Ozark, Mo. manufacturing facility. The FN-designed cartridges will be sold in the U.S. by FNH USA, LLC through its distribution network.

“This agreement allows us to keep pace with consumer demand for the popular 5.7×28 mm cartridge as well as the Five seveN USG handguns and the new and upcoming PS 90 semi-automatic carbine,” said Rick DeMilt, Director of Commercial and Law Enforcement Sales and Marketing for FNH USA. “Having a U.S. supplier is a significant advantage.” Founded in 1876 by Giulio Fiocchi, Fiocchi Munizioni S.P.A. is a worldwide leader in the manufacture of small caliber ammunition.

Crimson Trace Partners with SIGARMS

Crimson Trace Corporation has entered into a co-branding bundle with SIGARMS, makers of SIG SAUER pistols. Lasergrip-equipped SIG pistols will be available on models P220 Classic Full Size, P229R Classic Compact Size, and P226R Classic Full Size, and will bear the SIG SAUER logo.

The all-black Lasergrips complement the tactical appearance of SIG SAUER pistols, and the Lasergrips will be pre-sighted at the factory, making the package ready to shoot right out of the box. According to Sig Sauer, the packages are available now through its network of “SIGnificant” dealers.

The author publishes two of the small arms industry’s most widely read trade newsletters, The International Firearms Trade which covers the world firearms scene, and The New Firearms Business which covers the domestic market. He also offers FFL-mailing lists to firms interested in direct marketing efforts to the industry. He may be reached at: FirearmsB@aol.com.

As readers of SAR may know, I recently completed a military tour in Bosnia and was able to observe and handle many foreign weapons. One which caught my eye was that carried by the Belgium contingent – the Fabrique Nationale Carabine. Upon returning to America I kept on thinking about that FNC. I discovered they were available and decided (actually, my wife Linda gave me permission) to get one. A phone call to Gene Guilaroff, who has supplied me “black rifles” in the past, had an FNC Paratrooper with 18” barrel on the way to me.

After becoming quite familiar with my FNC, I wanted to learn more about it but quickly discovered there was little information available. Well, that situation has now ended with the publication of this two-part series on the FNC. This first article will provide a detailed overview of the rifle, including its background, technical details and operating characteristics. The second article, to be published shortly, will cover in detail its conversion to a factory-correct select fire weapon. Hint for all Class III enthusiasts: registered sears are plentiful and relatively inexpensive!

Installment 1 of the FN FNC in America.

Background

The birth of the FNC begins with its grandfather, the world famous FN FAL 7.62mm battle rifle. In the period 1963-66 as the arms market showed interest in smaller calibers, particularly the 5.56mm round, FN responded by designing the 5.56mm CAL rifle. Essentially the CAL was a smaller version of the FAL and continued to use the unique adjustable gas system. Unfortunately, the CAL was costly to manufacture/unreliable and therefore discontinued in 1975. It should be noted that 15-20 semiauto CAL’s were imported into America and sell (if available) for around $7500.

During 1974-76 FN redesigned the CAL into what we now know as the FNC. This was done for two reasons: 1) to compete in the 1976 Swedish arms tests and 1977-80 NATO cartridge evaluation trials; and, 2) to market a reliable 5.56mm rifle which could oppose the M16. Ultimately, in addition to Belgium, Sweden and Indonesia became licensed manufacturers of the FNC. At last count the FNC remains used by these three countries’ military forces and also is exported to parts of Asia and Africa.

Three importers are known to have brought semiauto FNC’s into the United States. Steyr of Secaucus, NJ and Howco of Laurel, MD brought in a total of about 1000 into the US during 1982-early ’83 timeframe. Gun South Inc. of Birmingham (later Trussville), AL imported approximately 5000 from mid 1983-88. When first imported in 1982 the price for an FNC was between $1000-1100. In 1985 this dropped to around $750 for either version to stimulate sales. In 1989 the importation of FNC’s, along with SIG, etc. was halted upon order of President Bush.

There were three imported versions of the FNC:

*Standard Model – Fixed stock with 18” barrel

*Paratroop Version 1 – Folding stock with 18” barrel

*Paratroop Version 2 – Folding stock with 16” barrel

Interestingly enough, while the folding/collapsing stock versions of military style weapons tend to be more rare, this is not the case with the FNC. Almost 90% of all imported FNC’s were the folding stock variation while the fixed stock comprised just 10% of the total. Also, the short 16” barrel is relatively uncommon and quite desirable.

Technical Details

Layout

The FNC is constructed of steel and aluminum alloys that are designed for reliability of operation and straightforward construction. Most of the parts are finished with a rugged satin black enamel which is baked on. The aluminum parts are black anodized while several steel items are dark gray parkerized.

With an overall length of 39.25” and unloaded weight of 8.3 lbs. (Para Version 1) it is of similar dimensions when compared to other 5.56mm rifles. The relationship of stock, trigger and handguard is excellent and readily lends itself to ease of handling and shooting. The handfilling front handguard is particularly well designed and remains cool to the touch even after periods of extended firing.

The trigger is designed by FN as a single-stage model and is fairly stiff. Trigger slack takeup requires 2.5 lbs. of pressure while sear disengagement needs an additional 8 lbs. to achieve release. Creep is typically .04-.05” which is well within specifications for a rifle designed for hard battlefield use.

The FNC is designed to use the NATO STANAG 4179 (Colt AR15-type) magazine. While a blued all-steel 30-round mag was originally available, it is generally hard to find and expensive. This is not a problem as the Colt 20 and 30-round versions work perfectly well and are found everywhere. For you serious collectors, the Beta-C mag should work properly in the FNC.

Receiver

The upper receiver is composed of stamped sheet steel with all welding performed robotically. The barrel extension, which includes the cartridge feed ramp, is spot welded into the front of the receiver. The rear of the receiver is given structural integrity by having the rear take down support also spot welded in. The rear sight assembly, too, is welded onto the receiver. To carry the bolt assembly, two U-shaped guide rails are spot welded inside the receiver. Next to the right guide rail is the ejector, which is riveted in place. Finally, to keep debris from getting inside the receiver there is a cocking slot cover which is spring loaded to ride over the cocking handle when the bolt assembly reciprocates.

The lower receiver is milled from aluminum alloy stock which is black anodized to reduce visibility. The magazine release is very similar to the Colt AR15 and is well positioned for one finger use. The trigger mechanism replicates the FALs’ and is easily accessible for maintenance. By rotating the safety switch vertically upwards it can be slid out to permit greater internal access for mechanism adjusting and/or replacement.

Barrel

The FNC’s imported into the US had two different length barrels. One was 18” and the other was 16”. Paratroop FNC’s came with both lengths while the standard fixed stock model came with the 18” version. Unlike the AR15, there has never been a heavyweight or “target” FNC barrel.

The barrel is hammer forged with a 6-groove RH twist which, is then hard chrome plated. Twist is 1/12” and designed to stabilize the US M193 55gr. bullet. It may not fully stabilize the newer US M855 62gr green tip slug. Interestingly enough, the Swedish Bofors-manufactured FNC (entered service in 1987 as the AK5) initially used a slow twist barrel due to humanitarian concerns about excessive wound trauma. They have since adopted the 1/7” twist as used on the M16A2 rifle.

The FNC barrel has a parkerized NATO-standard 22mm flash suppressor (LH thread!) which is very similar to the FAL “shorty” factory model. Flash suppression is adequate, but the main purpose of this device is to allow the mounting/launching of rifle grenades. Finally, the barrel is ribbed to support a clip-on bipod and front sling swivel.

Operating System

The gas-operated recoil system is a combination of the AK and FAL systems. A takeoff port in the barrel directs expanding gases through the gas block and into the gas tube. This tube carries the gas piston, which is part of the bolt carrier assembly. The gas slams into the head of the gas piston and forces the entire bolt carrier assembly to move backwards. As it begins moving to the rear, a camming action causes the bolt to unlock from the barrel extension and extract the spent cartridge case. Further bolt assembly movement causes the case to hit the ejector, recock the hammer and compress the recoil spring. The spring then drives back into battery the bolt carrier assembly, which strips off a fresh cartridge from the magazine and cams the bolt back into engagement with the barrel extension locking lugs. It is now ready for another round to be fired.

The FNC bolt is similar in size to an AR15 bolt and has two large dual-opposed locking lugs. The firing pin rides within the bolt, but is unusual in that it is retained by the bolt carrier and floats for 7mm. A firing pin spring is used so that an accidental inertia impact with the cartridge primer (which AR15’s are known to do) is eliminated. This firing pin is very thin and perhaps the weakest point in the FNC system.

Finally, the FNC gas system is adjustable in two separate ways. Should crud build up and more gas pressure is needed to cycle the action, an extension on the gas piston tube is rotated 90 degrees clockwise. This will cause the gas piston tube to close over an exhaust port located on the gas block and result in increased pressure being diverted against the gas piston head. The second adjustment is in regard to the firing of rifle grenades. By flipping up the grenade sight the gas is then cut off from flowing through the gas block and the FNC will not cycle. This permits the full force of the gas to be directed against the base of the grenade. Of course, a special ballistite (blank) cartridge is required to generate the high pressures required for launching.

Sights

Sights on the FNC are clearly in line with those of the FAL. The rear is an aperture type that flips into two positions: one for 250m and the other for 400m. It is protected from accidental knocks by two ears, which extend up from the base. Each adjusting click of the detent will traverse the bullet point-of-impact 1cm at 100m. The front sight is a spring-loaded post, which is also protected by two ears. Although there is no detent, each 1/4 turn of the post will elevate the bullet 1cm at 100m. While the sight adjusting function is performed with the combination tool, the Uzi SMG tool is also perfect for the job. Sight radius for the FNC is 20”.

Furniture

All the furniture on the FNC is rugged black plastic. The handguards are compression molded and riveted with brass nibs to steel liners. These liners give excellent structural integrity while being vented to dissipate the heat both forward and through the top. The pistolgrip is a direct takeoff from the FAL and is wedge shaped with a fairly steep rake to increase control while in rapid fire. The pistolgrip also contains the oiler/cleaning kit.

The sturdy folding stock is also a copy of the FAL paratroop unit. The two legs and buttpiece comprising the stock are made of aluminum, which has been finished in a baked-on satin black enamel. Also, the top leg of the buttstock is encased in plastic to reduce the effect of temperature extremes on the shooter’s face. The stock is fixed to the lower receiver via an aluminum mounting block which has been black anodized. To fold the stock, simply thumb aside the lock button, disengage the stock from the mounting block and fold against the right side of the rifle.

The fixed stock is also made of hard black plastic with a steel buttplate. It is mounted directly to the lower receiver via one screw. Swapping folding and fixed buttstocks is quite simple and requires no modifications to the bolt carrier, recoil mechanism, etc. Simply remove the screw, replace the stock, and reinstall the screw.

Spare Parts

Just recently the import of Indonesian-manufactured spare parts has taken place. Spare barrels, firing pins, magazines, tools, etc. are all available from Tampa Bay Military & Police Supply Inc. These items are officially licensed from FN and built to military specifications by the quasi-governmental firm of Bandung. Since Indonesia has been fighting terrorists and internal unrest for many years it is safe to say these parts have stood the test of time and will work quite well in the FNC. Two particularly interesting items are the 16” and 18” barrel assemblies with the 1/7” twist which will permit stabilization of the heavier M855 62gr. bullet.

Accessories

The FNC factory manual dated March, 1982, shows the following accessories to be available:

M16 Bayonet Adapter – This is attached to the barrel and permits the US M7 bayonet to be used. Otherwise, the FN “tubular” bayonet is used by sliding it over the NATO-standard 22mm flash suppressor.

Telescopic Sight – This is a superb 4×28 milspec scope manufactured by Hensoldt. It has the typical picket-post crosshair and sports an olive green finish. It is attached to the scope mount via two STANAG screws and is adjustable for windage and elevation.

Telescopic Sight Mount – This is a quick disconnect mount very similar to the SIG AMT design. The forward end of the mount is inserted into a cutout that is machined into a protrusion coming up from the barrel extension. The rear is then lowered until it lays against a dovetail which is part of the rear sight base. A lever on the mount is then pushed which cams into the dovetail. Neat, simple and very quick.

Bipod – This is a sturdy cast aluminum “claw clamp” design similar to the model used on the AR15. It functions by squeezing the spring-loaded legs together and placing the open mouth against the barrel. Releasing it will cause the mouth to close around the barrel and remain in place. With a working height of 11” it gives excellent support to the FNC.

Combination Tool – This tool is very handy for cleaning the gas piston, gas block port and adjusting the sights. Normally quite difficult to find, it is now being imported by Tampa Bay Military & Police Supply Inc. and an excellent addition to the tool box.

Operating Characteristics

The FNC is a fun firearm to shoot. Its simple, yet solid, construction gives it a balance and heft which yields confidence. Whether in the paratroop or fixed stock versions, it remains an excellent firearm to employ.

To load the FNC simply insert the magazine into the feed well and push until it locks into place. Grasping the cocking handle on the right side of the receiver, pull it to the rear and release smartly. A round will be chambered. Take it off safe, aim through the sights and press the trigger. Recoil is well dampened and presses directly back into the shoulder. Recovery onto the target is rapid for followup shots.

Accuracy testing with 210 rounds of first quality (not surplus) IMI M193 ball ammo provided by Cole Distributing revealed my particular FNC fired a consistent 10-round group of 2 1/2 MOA. This was with iron sights and stiff trigger, while the average velocity clocked at 3281 fps. The accuracy with this particular FNC/cartridge combination was outstanding and exceeds any military requirement I am aware of. One comment: many shooters avoid “surplus fodder” due to concerns about overpressure, corrosion, etc. This is clearly not true with Cole’s .223 IMI cartridge. It is very accurate/clean burning and is highly recommended!

For reloading purposes the FNC is not as friendly as the AR15. Most cases being ejected from the FNC are dented due to impacting the cocking slot cover. Unlike the H&K series of rifles, there is no optional ejection port buffer to snap on and reduce case damage.

Breaking down and cleaning the FNC is similar to the AR15. First, take out the magazine and make sure the chamber is empty. Cock the weapon and place it on safe. Push out the two captive takedown pins that connect the upper and lower receivers together. Grasp the cocking handle and retract the entire bolt carrier assembly towards the rear. As the handle reaches the cutout at the rear of the cocking slot pull it (the handle) out from the bolt carrier assembly. Use your finger to slide out the bolt carrier assembly from the upper receiver rails.

Next, press on the recoil spring retainer plate and rotate it 1/4 turn in either direction. This will disconnect the recoil spring/guide from its attachment point inside the gas piston. Slowly withdraw it towards the rear as spring tension is released. Finally, separate the bolt from the bolt carrier by rotating it 1/4 turn counterclockwise and remove it from the bolt carrier. Be careful the firing pin spring does not accidentally fall off the pin and get lost! Remove the handguards by snapping off their spring retainer clip located in front of the gas block.

Cleaning the FNC is very simple. Standard solvents and oils are used, but make sure all ammonia-based products do not come into contact with the aluminum lower receiver. It will attack non-ferrous metal! Cleaning the barrel from the breech end is simple and the only proper way to do so. Make especially sure you address the receiver extension where the bolt locks up as it will harbor a good amount of crud. Other places to make sure are clean include the hard chromed gas piston area, the gas tube it travels in and the gas block with its porting hole. For really stubborn carbon deposits in these areas I use a wooden popsicle stick or the combination tool to scrap them away.

Reassembly is the reverse of disassembly. Items to watch for include making sure the cocking handle is placed back into the bolt carrier assembly (it’s easy to forget) and the gas selector lever is placed into the “normal” and not full power position.

Conclusion

The FN FNC is one of the “best kept secrets” in military-style rifles to be imported into America. It is clearly one of the best. When comparing its cost to similar imports the true value of the FNC will become even more apparent. In fact, I consider it one of the few remaining “bargains” to be found. Where else can you get a firearm of this type from an internationally respected manufacturer for the price of a green label AR15?

Firing the low recoil and commonly available 5.56mm cartridge makes it a pleasure to shoot and even easier on the pocketbook. Further, its supply of high capacity magazines is assured for years to come. As an additional incentive, the import of licensed spare parts has begun and will keep the FNC running long into the future.

Fabrique Nationale’s FNC until now has been little known in America and deserves much greater respect than has been accorded. Belgium, Indonesia, Sweden and a host of other armed forces cannot be wrong. Now, with your knowledge of the FNC, you will not be either.

Stay tuned for a future article on how to convert the FNC to select fire – with registered transferable factory parts!

Arclight
Attn: Gene Guilaroff
PO Box 173
Alvaton, KY 42122
(502) 622-7309

Tampa Bay Military &
Police Supply, Inc.
Attn: Dana Reed
501 S. Falkenburg Rd.
Tampa, FL 33619
(813) 662-9433
fullauto@gte.net

Cole Distributing, Inc.
Attn: Gary Cole
PO Box 50271
Bowling Green, KY 42102-2871
(502) 843-6844
www.cole-distributing.com

In this column, Small Arms Review will track breaking news, emerging trends, and new products as they effect the small arms industry. Its journalist/photographer author specializes in covering the business and marketing aspects of the firearms industry.

Colt’s Manufacturing To Acquire Fabrique National

A major business story has emerged during the compilation of this initial column offering. Colt’s Manufacturing Co., the old-line New England “gun valley” based police, military and sporting firearms manufacturer, has signed a letter of intent to acquire the financially strapped Herstal, Belgium-based military and sporting armsmaker, Fabrique National (FN). Colt is reportedly offering three billion francs (or $82.4 million) in its bid to purchase the 92% stake in FN held by GIAT Industries, a French government owned mega defense contractor.

The consummation of the deal could result in Colt’s becoming the small arms powerhouse of the world. Within FN’s holdings, are American gunmakers Browning and Winchester licensee U.S. Repeating Arms Co. as well as an FN owned, South Carolina plant which manufactures M16 rifles for the U.S. military. Culmination of the transaction would help to restore Colt’s pride in the military arena after losing the M16 contract to FN several years ago.

While the deal would give Colt’s products in every major small arms category, the firm is not too keen on acquiring Browning. In a recent interview with the Hartford (CT) Courant, chief executive Ronald Stewart said during negotiations to acquire FN, Colt officials tried to leave Browning out of arrangement, expressing feelings that FN’s Winchester firearms and military businesses would better expand and complement Colt’s line. But GIAT insisted that the businesses not be broken up.

Blount wants Federal

Meanwhile, highly placed trade sources indicate Blount, Inc., the shooting sports company conglomerate, which has just announced its intention of acquiring Federal Cartridge Co. and has said its future expansion plans are dependant upon acquisitions, has been looking at buying Browning. It may even acquire Browning from Colt, after the acquisition of FN is completed.

Colt’s is not planning to cut jobs in its West Hartford, Connecticut plant as a result of its pending FN purchase, Stewart added. He said the company would remain at its present site for six or seven years. Colt’s workforce has remained at about 730 employees during the past year. The gunmaker’s negotiators in the FN acquisition reportedly attempted to make cuts in FN’s European workforce but were unable to gain concessions from labor unions, according to trade sources.

In commenting on the lackluster state at present of most firearms firms, Stewart concluded, “The industry is ripe for consolidation. You’ve really got two choices. You’re either a consolidator or you get consolidated.”

Business Notes

An invaluable reference aid to all sorts of firearms (including full-autos) has just been published by Gun Parts Corporation (226 Williams Lane, West Hurley, NY 12491). The “World Guide To Gun Parts Catalog” Edition #21 is the firm’s largest catalog ever, at over 850 pages. Offering over one-half billion gun parts (many of which are available exclusively from Gun Parts Corp.) it is well worth its purchase price of $7.95 including postage. An especially valuable feature to professional armorers, gunsmiths and hobbyists is the over 450 schematic drawings detailing firearm components.

Theft!

Thieves intent on stealing a machine gun broke into the Potomac Trading Post, a retailer in Kensington, Maryland one night recently and stole a fully automatic AK-47 rifle, according to the Maryland Licensed Firearms Dealers Association. Montgomery County, Maryland police were reported as saying the criminal(s) broke into a safe and removed the gun, which had no magazine attached. No other firearms were taken during the incident.

Bennelli and HK to go separate ways

Benelli and Heckler & Koch (HK), two firms which maintain a significant presence in the police and military market segments, as well as the consumer side, will go their separate ways as of January 1. The two firms had been operating out of HK’s Virginia facility. Beretta USA, which owns part of Benelli, Inc., will set up a sales and distribution office inside the Beretta plant in Accokeek, Maryland but will operate Benelli separately.

FATS

Firearms Training Systems, Inc. (FATS) of Suwanee, Georgia, a leading producer of interactive small arms simulation systems, has been awarded contracts with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the New York City Police Department (NYPD). Both agencies currently use FATS interactive training simulation systems. The award by the FBI is for an additional ten systems and the NYPD placed an order for four new systems as well as an upgrade of one of their existing FATS systems.

And in the international arena, FATS has received a contract from the Israeli Army to provide an interactive training simulation system together with 36 weapon simulators and spares. The contracts includes options for the purchase of up to an additional eight simulation systems.

Over its 13-year history, FATS has developed over 180 types of simulated weapons including submachine guns, pistols and revolvers, anti-armor rocket launchers, cannons and mortars. It also has produced approximately 100 laser discs containing more than 1,000 training scenarios. The company believes it is critical to accurate training that its simulated weapons have the same physical functions and operational characteristics as an actual firearm such as weight, timing of fire, recoil, potential for malfunction and loading procedures.

A typical simulated firearm will include an infra-red laser, gas piston actuators, valves, electronic sensors, a localized computer controller, specialized recoil buffers, gas lines, ports and wiring. The majority of the simulated firearms are modified from actual guns or assembled from arms kits purchased from third party suppliers. To date, the company has sold more than 2,000 training systems in the U.S. and in over 30 other countries.

New Products

A new high quality carbine of particular interest to police agencies is available from North American Integrated Technologies ( [NAIT], 590 Menlo Drive, Suite 8, Rocklin, CA 95765). The M16K .45 ACP semi-auto carbine is based on the time-proven M16 but designed to utilize Thompson submachine gun magazines. Hand-built and hand-assembled to assure accuracy and absolute reliability, it has a unique bolt and buffer system to reduce felt recoil and internal stresses on the mechanism. The combination of built-in muzzle brake, heavy tubular steel handguard, and balanced center of operation is said to permit fire with no muzzle climb. Accuracy is guaranteed at 1 MOA at 100 yards.

A couple of other new NAIT items are worthy of note. The XLR rangefinder is specifically designed for long distance shooting up to 2,200 meters with an accuracy of +/- one meter. The waterproof, lightweight and relatively low cost XLR features simple point-and-measure operation and has applications for police, military and professional shooting
competition.

NAIT’s Black Cat Gen III 18mm night vision weapon sight is a cutting edge image intensifier tube suitable for combat use. Its compact size and “keep it simple” design gives users complete flexibility and maneuverability while yielding night vision target detection and acquisition. It is currently in use in special operations throughout the world.

Mace Security International, Inc., the Bennington, Vermont-based chemical munitions firm is reshuffling its top management. Directors have elected two new members to their board, and the president, who was on the job only two months, has given up his post to co-founder Jon E. Goodrich, the company said. Meanwhile, Robert P. Gould, another of the firm’s founders, has resigned as a director.

Frangible ammo

Longbow, Inc. (P.O. Box 624, Burns Flat, OK 73624) has added new products to its line of non-toxic frangible ammunition. Its 12 gauge 2 3/4-inch breaching slug, which functions in standard law enforcement shotguns without requiring a “stand-off” attachment, now has improved accuracy for use at normal training and confrontation distances. The new 12 gauge frangible buckshot round is available for training and service use in “hardened” areas such as jails and court houses.

Longbow intends to offer a service round in every caliber commonly utilized by law enforcement. For example, the popularity of the .380 ACP cartridge as an off duty, back-up and undercover caliber has prompted the company to come out with a frangible loading in this cartridge. For marksmen, match grade frangible ammo is now available in .223 Remington and .308 Winchester loadings.

The .357 SIG, relatively new but gaining acceptance within the police community (it is being issued by the Delaware State Police and the Texas Department of Public Safety, among others, according to Longbow) has induced Longbow to bring out of a cartridge in this caliber. The 95 grain frangible bullet has a velocity of 1,550 fps and delivers a muzzle energy of 453 foot-pounds. And for those agencies issuing carbines instead of shotguns to their officers (such as the Ruger Mini-30), a 7.62×39 frangible cartridge is sold with a 120 grain bullet traveling at 2,200 fps at the muzzle and yielding a muzzle energy of 1,288 foot-pounds.