There is a fairly new magazine-fed, semi-automatic, gas-operated tactical shotgun available for scattergun enthusiasts. The weapon is the FosTecH Outdoors LLC Origin 12 shotgun. The Origin 12 is made in the USA and has been available for a year or so, yet it is relatively unknown.

The Origin 12 has a few unique features that set it apart from many other semi-automatic 12-gauge shotguns. One of those features is a long-stroke gas system, which will function with low-power shells that are normally reserved for pump or break-open shotguns. The weapon’s reliability is enhanced by a rotating bolt with two large extractors. Felt recoil is reduced by the stock, which is located above the centerline of the bore. Control is aided by a pistol grip. The magazine release and safety lever are ambidextrous, while the non-reciprocating charging handle is located on the left-hand side of the receiver. The telescoping AR-style stock folds to the side to decrease the overall length of the shotgun for storage or carry. A large ejection port cover keeps debris out of the action when the weapon is not in use. Front and rear polymer folding sights are standard. There is plenty of rail space to mount just about any accessory—from optics to flashlights. The shotgun is a two-part modular construction consisting of the receiver and stock, and the barrel, gas tube and handguard assembly. Origin 12 shotguns are all restricted to 2.75-inch shells.

The Origin 12 shotgun is available in 18.5- (non-NFA) or 10.67-inch barrel lengths. The 10.67-inch barrel model is a short-barreled shotgun, which is subject to NFA regulations and the $200 federal transfer tax. The barrel module is available in different lengths and can be swapped out in seconds by the removal of a single pin. The barrel’s muzzle is externally threaded with the same M22x75 threads as the Saiga and Vepr shotguns to accommodate flash hiders, muzzle brakes or sound suppressors. The barrels come fitted with thread protectors. The short-barreled model weighs 7 pounds, 3 ounces; the 18.5-inch barrel shotgun weighs 9 pounds, 3 ounces.

The patented gas system of the Origin 12 allows it to pick up the gas as soon as it leaves the chamber, making it very efficient. The system is designed so that a shotgun shell can be used as a tool to adjust the large gas plug located above the barrel. With lighter loads, such as target or small game loads, the port should be closed or slightly open. For heavy loads, such as high brass or slugs, the port should be open to allow excess gas to be vented from the weapon to prevent damage. When adjusting the system, ensure that the hole in the gas plug is facing upward, this allows the escaping gas to assist in controlling muzzle rise. This is a great advantage on the Origin 12 and helps to place more rounds on target. If the Origin 12 fails to cycle or eject a spent cartridge, it is likely that there is not enough gas pressure, and the gas system will need to be adjusted so that less gas escapes. Thread the gas plug inward two full revolutions and repeat the test. When properly adjusted, the shells should be ejecting 5 to 8 feet away from the weapon.

The Origin 12 is easily field stripped for cleaning or maintenance by the removal of a few pins. Upon disassembly, one can readily see the resemblance to the AK’s bolt carrier-recoil spring assembly, albeit substantially larger in size.

As well as offering different barrel lengths, the Origin 12 is available in various guises. The basic Origin 12 shotgun is designated as the Hard Black model, with a black receiver, barrel and internals. Another model imparts the Hard Black barrel and receiver with nickel internal parts. A third option is the Hard Nickel Shotgun, which features a nickel receiver, barrel and internal parts. Available accessories include a recoil pad, extended charging handle, choke tube adapter, cheek riser, barrels, extra magazines and a Trijicon MRO reflex sight. The Origin 12 is shipped in a plastic hard case with a manual and one five-round magazine.

The Origin 12 magazines are made of polymer with steel feed lips; they are available with capacities of five, eight and ten rounds. No fumbling or rocking of the magazine, insertion is straight up into the receiver. A little extra effort is required if the bolt is closed; the action locks open after the last round is fired. Drum magazines with 20- and 30-round capacities are also available.

The FosTecH Origin 12 SBV

For those that like the look and handiness of a short barrel—but want to avoid the ATF paperwork and $200 transfer tax—FosTecH offers the SBV model. The Origin 12 SBV shotgun has an overall length of 27.5 inches when fitted with a 10.67-inch barrel, but it is not classified as an NFA firearm. In place of a buttstock, the SBV has a side-folding arm stabilizing brace installed. Technically, the brace cannot be shouldered, as the ATF’s position is that: The pistol stabilizing brace was neither “designed” nor approved to be used as a shoulder stock. Except for its lack of a conventional buttstock, the SBV model has the same features as the Origin 12 short-barreled shotgun. The SBV has an M22x75 metric threaded muzzle and uses the same five-, eight- and 10-round magazines or 20- and 30-round drums as the other Origin 12 models. The SBV weighs 9 pounds, 9 ounces and is available in Hard Black, Hard Black with nickel internal parts or Hard Nickel, the receiver and internal parts of which are nickel. Ownership of the SBV shotgun is subject to local or state laws.

Field Stripping

1. Remove the magazine.
2. Verify the firearm is unloaded and the safety lever is in the safe position.
3. Remove the quick-change pin and separate the barrel module from the receiver.
4. Fold the stock.
5. Remove the two front dust cover pins and rear dust cover pin then remove the dust cover.
6. Remove the carrier spring and carrier spring locator.
7. Remove the buffer spring locator.
8. Slide the bolt carrier assembly rearward until it clears the receiver rails and remove the carrier assembly.
9. Remove the bolt from the carrier assembly.
10. Remove the adjustable gas plug.

The Origin 12 shotgun is now field stripped for cleaning or maintenance, and it can be reassembled by reversing the field stripping process.

The SilencerCo Salvo 12 Shotgun Suppressor

A popular accessory for the Origin 12 shotgun is the Salvo 12 suppressor.

Sound suppressors, aka “silencers”, have become increasingly popular in the last few years. Previously, suppressors were only available for pistols and rifles in the US. Now, shotgun enthusiasts can also enjoy the benefits of firearm sound suppression, preventing hearing loss and shooting without disturbing game or the neighbors.

Like SilencerCo’s popular pistol suppressor, the Osprey, the Salvo 12 is polygonal. The reason for its unconventional shape is that it provides a larger internal volume, and it keeps the suppressor out of the line of sight so that no special raised sights are needed. In most cases, the original factory sights can be used. This applies to the Origin 12, because the gas system is located approximately 1.5 inches above the barrel. Indeed, many owners attach their Salvo suppressors to the Origin 12 in an inverted position.

The Salvo 12’s design is essentially composed of two basic components: a nine-rod internal rail system to guide the wad column and a modular baffle stack that can be adjusted from 12 to 6 inches in length. The Salvo is constructed of a squared, multipart baffle and spacer system made from 17-4 stainless steel and 7075 aluminum.

Baffles can be removed or added in 2-inch increments, the Salvo can be adjusted by stacking baffles and replacing the rods to the owner’s personal choice of length, weight and decibel level. On shotguns with short barrels, like the Origin 12 or the Origin SBV, the full-length Salvo is ideal. On more conventional shotguns with longer barrels, reducing the Salvo to its 6-, 8- or 10-inch length may be desirable. Another advantage of a shorter suppressor is the reduction in weight, though this comes at the expense of a louder report.

The Salvo 12 is designed to operate with pump action, gas-operated semi-automatic and inertia-driven semi-automatic shotguns. The suppressor is compatible with 2.75- or 3-inch wadded shot shells and rifled slugs (the Origin 12 shotguns are limited to 2.75-inch shells.) At its full length of 12 inches, the Salvo 12 brings the sound down to a reported 136.8 dB at the muzzle with a weight of 34.5 ounces. Some shooters may benefit from a nose-heavy swing and reduction of muzzle rise in addition to the reduced recoil. The suppressor’s modular design allows the user to shorten the silencer to balance size, weight, and sound requirements for sporting clay, waterfowl, turkey hunting, home defense and many other applications. The suppressor can be shortened to 8 inches and remain hearing safe. In its 6-inch configuration, the Salvo weighs only 21 ounces, but it still delivers a reported suppressed volume of 140.5 dB to the ear. The Salvo 12 attaches to the barrel by an adapter that connects to the internal threads cut for choke tubes or, in the cases of the Origin 12, Saiga or Vepr shotguns, with external threads. SilencerCo produces mounting adapters for several popular shotgun brands. Adapters and rod kits are sold separately. For military and law enforcement customers, SilencerCo offers a muzzle extension for breaching.

A New Shotgun Suppressor?

Previously, SilencerCo’s Salvo 12 was the sole shotgun suppressor available on the U.S. market. Now, however, those in the market for a shotgun suppressor may have another option from Turkey-based shotgun maker UTAS. Claiming to be short in length and light in weight, the new UTAS-USA Octave is a carbon fiber-wrapped 12-gauge sound suppressor. The manufacturer claims that the Octave can reduce a 12-gauge shotgun’s report down to 135 decibels.

The Octave’s unconventional construction consists of a core of specially designed fibrous insulation made from volcanic rock that is heat and flame resistant. The spun fiber is encased in a steel mesh, then wrapped around a 4140 steel outer tube that’s designed not to inhibit the flight of the shotgun shell wad. Expanding gas passes from the muffler tube through stainless steel baffling screens into two separate expansion chambers filled with the special noise dampening packing material. For further sound reduction, the Octave can run wet. The Octave weighs 19.8 ounces with an overall length of 11 inches.

The Octave was introduced in 2005, but it is not listed on the company’s website, and a search to find one for sale was in vain.

In just a few years, the world of military museums in the Netherlands has been jumbled up. Almost everything has changed. The highlight of this reorganization is the new National Military Museum (NMM) on the grounds of the former airbase Soesterberg.

Until 1994, Soesterberg was home of the American 32 Tactical Fighter Sqn (TFS). It was closed as an operational airbase in 2008 and has now been renamed Park Soesterberg Airbase. The NMM is an amalgamation of the old Army Museum in Delft and the Military Aviation Museum, which was housed in another part of the airbase. In mid-December 2014, the new museum was officially opened by the Dutch King.

Organization

Ever since World War II, the Netherlands has had a small patchwork of larger military museums and dozens of smaller unit collections. Very interesting to visit, but a disaster in terms of management and conservation. No one knew what had been preserved, where it was or even who paid for it.

To remedy these defects, a new organization was established in October 2014: the Defense Museum Foundation. The Foundation manages the collections of the major museums: the Naval Museum in Den Helder, the Royal Marines Museum in Rotterdam, the Military Police Museum in Buren and the new NMM. It has also absorbed many of the smaller collections.

The reorganization meant a landslide. Museum staff are now employed by this Foundation, instead of by the Ministry of Defense. Uniting these collections means that both personnel and objects can more easily be exchanged. The Naval Museum, the Marines Museum and the Military Police Museum stayed where they were, but the two major collections—Army and Air Force—had to merge and move to a shared new building.

Army and Air Force together? One can imagine the outcries of indignation. Adding insult to injury, the new museum building was planned at the cradle of Dutch military aviation, Soesterberg.

Despite the differences, the new museum has proven to be large enough for the two to have their own space. Furthermore, the historical legacy has been carefully preserved. The oldest wooden building of the Dutch Aviation Department, as it was called at its inception, has been restored to its full glory. A pre-war hangar is incorporated into the new structure. Yes, some postwar buildings have been demolished, but will they be missed?

The real miracle, of course, is that a new military museum could be built at all. Defense budgets in the Netherlands have been tight for years and started increasing only after flight MH17 was shot down over the Ukraine in July 2014, killing 298 passengers and flight crew. By then, the museum was almost finished. How did they manage that?

First, there were major cuts in staff. The two museums together had 76 full-time jobs. In the new museum, there are only 31—less than half. But even with such a staff reduction you cannot build a new museum. The secret lies in the term public-private partnership.

In 2010, a competition was organized for the design and development of the NMM including the surrounding terrain. Seven consortia came forward, of which three remained after an initial selection. A yearlong consultation with these parties followed. They had to submit a plan based on detailed specifications, which included shaping the 111-acre museum park, the building itself and all the facilities for a planned 200,000 visitors per year.

Road construction company Heijmans came out best from the selection process. The company was enthusiastic, had some bold ideas and won the tender. This meant not only that it could build the museum, but Heijmans also got operational control for the next 25 years. The company has control over the museum shop, restaurant and catering and has to organize events, for which the company receives an annual allowance from the Ministry of Defense.

Together with those rights comes an impressive set of obligations. To begin with, there was a building to erect, with the complete equipment, depots, climate control and security. The requirements for all these aspects were strictly defined. For instance, the museum has some interactive games. The contract specifies that these are not allowed to be out of order for more than five minutes; no “out of order” signs hanging for three months. Similar requirements exist for the lighting and toilets—in short, for the entire infrastructure.

The museum was built with the express intention of holding various large-scale events. On the museum grounds are three “arenas”. Unpaved, paved and uneven, so demonstrations can be held with both horses and vehicles. A tank weekend, for example. But re-enactors, a knife fair—everything is possible. One of the runways has even been preserved, for the possibility of a future aircraft show.

Enormous

But now onto a much more important topic: how does the new museum look? To begin with, it’s huge. The museum is 13 meters high, with a 4-meter-thick roof which protrudes on all sides. The main roof is rectangular: 100 meters wide and 200 meters long. It provides a huge space, inside which armored vehicles and aircraft almost vanish. A Dornier Do-24 flying boat stands almost casually in a corner. And that huge building itself looks small in the vast landscape.

From the outside, the museum appears like a large shoebox. The inside is different. The huge glass outer walls are lined with the heaviest equipment: artillery, tanks, military vehicles and aircraft. Further inside, the building is divided into floors, halls and galleries, with surprisingly intimate corners.

The exhibition focuses on a number of topics, both chronologically and thematically. The “ring” with heavy equipment is divided into the periods of 3000 B.C. to 1500, from 1500 to 1839, from 1839 to 1945 and from 1945 to the present. The inner circle covers a variety of themes. Who are the Dutch? Military life, military operations, society and the armed forces and the future of the armed forces; all of these are shown on different levels, with objects, images and sound. In between, there are sudden intimate moments. A treasure room, for example, with an abundance of paintings and trophies, edged weapons, Japanese armor and Dutch ivory pistols. The main exhibition area has separate rooms with themes like camouflage, explosives, pilot clothing and ejection seats.

Arms Lovers

The National Military Museum aims at a broad audience. It wants at least 200,000 visitors a year, which you get only if there really is something going on. Thus far, it has succeeded remarkably. In its first year, it attracted more than half a million people.

The hardcore fans don’t need to be disappointed either. The army museum in Delft had a phenomenal library and a wonderful study collection. Both are still there. A little behind the museum are black buildings, in the form of two hangars, harboring the study collection, storage and library. You can go there by appointment. The museum itself has a Knowledge & Information Center: a hall with computers giving access to the collection and a core library of several hundred of the most requested titles. It reflects the intention that—from beginner to expert, from tourist to military historian—the National Military Museum is trying to serve everyone.

In addition, the museum’s infrastructure has been substantially modernized. There are large deposits with air-conditioned rooms, maintenance workshops and special facilities for the safe storage of old prints and photographs.

Of course, there are some negative sides as well. The new museum has become a commercial institute, which means you have to pay for everything. There is little budget for acquisitions. And since neither the library nor the study collection is “core business,” their future might still be insecure. All details of the new museum can be found at www.nmm.nl.

Questioning the standard approach is not always the easiest path to follow. This applies to any firearms arena: tactical, military, sporting or hunting. What comes to mind if someone mentions getting a rifle for hunting mid-size or larger game? I bet most would not consider an AR pattern rifle, especially if assuming in 5.56mm/.223Rem chambering. A light-weight, fast-handling, hard-hitting rifle is a premium when afield. The search for the “perfect” rifle and cartridge combination is the impetus of many gun designers and manufacturers; this search motivated Stoner himself back in the early 1950s. The AR’s inherent qualities have caused many manufacturers to jump on the bandwagon in recent years by offering their versions. Of late, the most attention seems to be on “improving” the AR platform via increasing chambering options. While most of this is driven by the tactical arena, hunters have benefitted greatly by this as well. We will discuss several prime AR examples that are at-home hunting.

Alexander Arms decided to up the ante with the AR by going a different route—cartridge enhancement in the form of the .50 Beowulf cartridge. Alexander Arms’ 6.5 Grendel is another example of this. Reports from Afghanistan and Iraq have re-exposed that under certain conditions the 5.56mm performs poorly in putting an adversary down quickly with minimal rounds fired. This prompted a re-evaluation of how to enhance the AR platform with different chambering. The .50 Beowulf was introduced in 2001 by Alexander Arms. The last frontier with the AR is caliber expansion that fits within a standard 5.56mm lower receiver and uses a standard bolt group—with some modification. Though the 7.62x51mm/.308Win AR10 has been around for quite some time, the .308Win AR’s increase in size and weight in terms of necessary AR receiver sizes and other accessories to accommodate the larger cartridge is a drawback to many. This is where an AR chambered in the .50 Beowulf comes into the story. Alexander Arms decided to enter the AR fray only after thoroughly exploring the topic and by designing their ARs around new cartridges in an effort to expand the AR’s horizons.

The .50 Beowulf operates with bullet weights between 300 and 400 grains propelled between 1,800fps to 1,900fps depending on barrel length and bullet weight. The .50 Beowulf was specifically designed by Alexander Arms to generate unprecedented stopping power at short to moderate ranges out of the AR. For most .50 Beowulf loads, a 100-yard zero will give a relatively flat trajectory out to 150 yards; 100-yard zero will have the bullet offset less than a 1-inch low at 50 yards, zero at 100 yards, and dropping only 3.5 inches at 150 yards. Anecdotally, the .50 Beowulf can be thought of as a 45-70 Government in term of power. The .50 Beowulf’s heavy, large-diameter bullets and moderate velocities make it well-suited for hunting deer, hogs, black bear and similar-sized game that is found in woodlands or other thick cover situations. The .50 Beowulf’s terminal ballistics and large projectile can anchor most any animal found in North America.

The Alexander Arms .50 Beowulf story does not end with the new cartridge. Bill Alexander insists that the rifles that bear his name be of the utmost quality in all aspects—material, assembly and design. Research for a previous article indicates that each rifle starts with a receiver manufactured by a company that specializes in aircraft engine parts. This industry’s quality control exceeds most due to zero tolerance of failure for obvious reasons. Another Alexander Arms manufacturing tweak is the barrel attachment method to the receiver. Over the years I have become convinced that a quality barrel is the best insurance for providing an accurate weapon. Alexander Arms feels the same way as they contract Lothar Walther for barrels. The .50 Beowulf is fed from 7- or 10-round magazines that share the same dimensions of standard 30-round AR magazines. .50 Beowulf AR magazines need the feed lips opened to accommodate the much larger .50 Beowulf cartridge and single-stack configuration of the .50 Beowulf round.

Alexander Arms’ other AR hunting option is chambered in the 6.5 Grendel. The 6.5 Grendel cartridge can have an entire article written on it. The 6.5 Grendel can be considered an intermediate cartridge falling between the 5.56mm and 7.62 NATO rounds, while maintaining use of the standard AR receiver size. The 6.5 Grendel case fits the bolt head of another Alexander Arms AR creation—the .50 Beowulf. The 6.5 Grendel was developed from the PPC benchrest family of cartridges (which traces lineage to the .220 Russian and eventually the 7.62×39) with modification to the shoulder and neck dimensions. It allows use of standard AR magazine bodies by switching out the followers. 5.56mm 30-round capacity is reduced to 26-round with the Grendel cartridge. The 6.5 Grendel can handle 80 to 144gr projectiles, but it performs best with bullets in the 100-123gr range. The 6.5 Grendel is no hot rod with velocities in the high 2,400-2,800fps range depending on bullet weight. However, it produces excellent down performance due to its high ballistic coefficient enabling retained down range velocity better than almost any other bullet diameter.

The urge to merge AR modularity, ergonomics, optics mounting and accuracy with heavier than 5.56mm cartridge has constantly appealed to the shooting community. CMMG has experience with this in the form of their highly successful Mk 47 Mutant 7.62×39 offering. (More on the Mutant later.) CMMG has upped the ante with their MkW ANVIL .458 SOCOM. The .458 SOCOM emerged from what started as informal discussions within the US Special Operation’s community after involvement in Somali. A set of initial requirements were set forth that shaped the design of the .458 SOCOM. The cartridge needed to fit in standard AR15 5.56mm magazines. The .458 SOCOM was specifically designed to generate unprecedented stopping power at short to moderate ranges out of the AR.

Upon testing, it was found that the .458 SOCOM not only lived up to the initial functionality requirements set forth, but also demonstrated ballistics to making it a viable caliber for a multitude of roles. There is a surprising variety of .458 SOCOM ammunition available from companies such as Corbon, Lehigh, Southern Ballistic Research (SBR), Underwood, Black Butterfly, Polycase and Venture Munitions. Bullet weights span 140 grain to 600 grain. The SBR-loaded Polycase 140 grain ARX reaches nearly 3,000 feet per second (fps), 300 grain loads 1800+fps, 400 grain 1600+ and 500-600 grain 1200-950 fps. Research indicates that the 300-400 grain loads are the “sweet spot” for the caliber with the most bullet load options. The 500-600 grain rounds are for suppressor use.

For 300-350 grain .458 SOCOM loads a 150-yard zero will give a relatively flat trajectory out to 200 yards; 150-yard zero will have the bullet offset less than 1 inch low at 50 yards, +2.5 inches at 100 yards and dropping 7 inches at 200 yards. The .458 SOCOM’s heavy, large-diameter bullets and moderate velocities make it well-suited for use in multiple arenas, including hunting. Shorter range has shared characteristics of each of listed roles. The .458 SOCOM’s terminal ballistics and large projectile have equal effect on engine block or large hog.

The CMMG Mk 47 Mutant product line immediately caught this hunter’s attention as something very worthy of exploration. Hunters know that the 7.62×39 cartridge mimics the hunting icon 30-30 in terms of ballistics. The CMMG Mk 47 Mutant offers true AR modularity, ergonomics, accuracy, optic adaptability, wide spread AK47 magazine compatibility—including drums—and lightweight svelte handling with 7.62×39 firepower. The 7.62×39’s trajectory is conducive to making hits out to 300 yards without having to resort to excessive hold over; 3 inches high at 100 yards produces a 200-yard zero with 15 inches low at 300 yards. The CMMG Mk 47 Mutant combined with a quality optic mated to quality ammunition in the form of the Hornady 123 grain SST is what many hunters have been waiting on.

AR10 type rifles are the most obvious choice for hunting considering the .308Win chambering. The .308Win is an established hunting round in its own right. Sturm, Ruger & Company (Ruger) has taken its concept of the AR rifle another step forward with its SR-762 .308Win (SR25/AR10). The SR-762 is a short-stroke gas piston AR. Ruger decided to enter the fray only after thoroughly exploring the topic and by designing their version of a short-stroke, push rod, piston-driven system for the AR. Ruger describes its short-stroke piston as a two-stage affair eliminating the sharp pulse often associated with other piston ARs as the op-rod strikes the flat-faced carrier key located on the bolt carrier. This aids in faster follow up shots on game.

The Ruger’s decision to expand its AR model line up with the piston driven SR-762 is a valid one. While the SR-762 is not going to be issued to our military services, sportsmen will find the Ruger SR-762 appealing. The combining of the AR platform with the increased power represented in the .308Win cartridge is the key. This is speaking in terms of lethality and effective range, while still allowing for multiple rounds sent quickly downrange if needed.

FN has taken its vision of the AR rifle another step forward with its new ARs chambered in .300Blackout (.300BLK). It is not unusual to see military pattern weapons embraced by hunters. This pattern can be discerned ala Trapdoor, Springfield 1903, etc. Why not take advantage of the time and effort expended by various nations’ armed forces in doing the initial leg work of what works in terms of reliability and effectiveness. This is not to say military weapons are to be blindly followed; just that millions of dollars and countless hours of research and development should not be ignored as a starting place.

The .300 Blackout (.300BLK) is emerging as one of the most successful alternate AR chamberings. Literature describes the goal of the .300BLK as being the ability to launch .30 caliber projectiles from the AR platform using existing 5.56mm magazines without a reduction in magazine capacity or reliable functioning. Another notable characteristic of the .300BLK is its compatibility with the AR standard bolt; thus only a barrel change is necessary. Anecdotal information compares standard velocity .300BLK 115-125 grain ammunition as matching the ballistics of the 7.62x39mm AK and eclipses 5.56mm both in ballistics and terminal punch. At 300 yards, the .300BLK has approximately 17 percent more energy than the 7.62x39mm. There is a wide variety of ammunition available for the .300BLK. A favorite for hunting would be the SIG SAUER Elite HT 120 grain Solid Copper load.

The same FN quality and attention to detail in providing accurate, rugged and reliable weapons such as the M249 and M240 belt-fed machineguns, both examples of other FN designs, were turned toward their AR product line-up. Even though FN America has been making AR pattern rifles for decades here in the US, introduction of a civilian AR product line is new. The FN 15 Tactical’s tale of the tape indicates a 6.6 pound weight and measurements of 33.7 and 37 inches depending on stock adjustment. The FN 15 Tactical is one of the lighter AR versions on the market, especially considering that it features a full-length rail and 16-inch barrel, weighing less than 7 pounds. The FN 15 Tactical shows versatility in satisfying customer needs by not using full-length quad rails, but instead a lower profile handguard in the form of the Midwest LWM. The LWM handguard minimizes weight and contributes to the excellent balance of the FN 15 Tactical. Some full-length rails cause a front heavy feel. This is important for any rifle intended to be used for hunting.

Hunters should not automatically dismiss AR rifles as valid hunting options. Any sneers or jeers received at deer camp can be handled with an explanation of the different calibers available along with describing the accuracy and firepower of which ARs are capable.

SITES OF INTEREST

Alexander Arms www.alexanderarms.com
CMMG www.cmmginc.com
Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. www.ruger.com
FN www.fnamerica.com

CORE RIFLE SYSTEMS NEW FOR 2017 CORE 6.5 GRENDEL RIFLE PLATFORM

The 6.5 Grendel rifle is now available in two CORE platforms, the new TAC 6.5, and all the HARDCORE models. As part of this the 6.5 Grendel is also offered in both 18” and 20” CORE Rifle System barrel lengths.

The 6.5mm Grendel design goal was to create an effective 200-800 yard AR-15 magazine length loaded cartridge for the AR-15 platform that surpassed the performance of the native 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington cartridge. Constrained by the length of the 5.56mm NATO round, the Grendel designers decided to use a shorter, larger diameter case for higher powder volume while allowing space for long, streamlined, high ballistic coefficient (BC) bullets. Firing factory-loaded ammunition loaded with bullets ranging from 90 to 129 grains (5.8-8.4 g), its muzzle velocity ranges from 2,500 ft/s (760 m/s) with 129- and 130-grain (8.4 g) bullets to 2,900 ft/s (880 m/s) with 90 gr (5.8 g) bullets (similar in velocity to a 5.56mm 77-grain (5.0 g) round).

The case head diameter of the Grendel is the same as that of the parent case, the .220 Russian, the 7.62×39mm and PPC cases. This is larger than the 5.56×45mm NATO, thereby necessitating the use of a non-standard AR-15 bolt. The 6.5 Grendel has proven to be highly effective as both a competition shooting round and a hunting round. Because of its flat trajectory the round has been successful in hunting small to large game including Bear and Elk. For more information about Core Rifle Systems, visit www.coreriflesystems.com.

ELITE SURVIVAL SYSTEMS SHIFT 2-TO-1 POINT TACTICAL BUNGEE SLING

Single-point slings have increased in popularity over recent years due to ease of use and the fact that they often contain an internal bungee layer. Bungee provides a measure of neck relief as well as stretch and resistance when in a shouldered position to help you remain stable. The new SHIFT 2-to-1 Point Tactical Bungee Sling from Elite Survival Systems not only contains an internal bungee layer, but allows you to instantly convert from the more stable two points of attachment to a versatile single point attachment sling with the snap of a hook. This versatility not only allows you to choose your style of attachment on any particular weapon, but allows you to use the sling on a greater variety of weapons and helps reduce the number of slings you may need in your kit. The SHIFT sling comes standard with both HK-style snap-hooks and MASH attachment hooks for even greater versatility. It offers a quick-ditch option via the side-release buckle and has a large degree of adjustment to fit comfortably over armor and gear. The sling is made in the USA and carries the Elite Survival Systems lifetime guarantee.

ELITE SURVIVAL SYSTEMS VERSATILE SIDEWINDER BATTLE BELT

The new Sidewinder™ Battle Belt from Elite Survival Systems provides a comfortable and stable platform for attaching more combinations of equipment to your favorite belt. The battle belt increases your carrying capability with MOLLE attachment points, allowing you to haul a significant amount of various gear comfortably on the waist. The Sidewinder’s segmented PALS panels allow the user to wind a belt through the panel segments and select between MOLLE attachment points for modular pouches and gear or belt mount attachment for standard holsters and pouches. The belt is fully padded with a nylon mesh lining for increased ventilation, and a non-slip panel on the inside of the battle belt helps keep the system stable and secure during activity. Elite Survival Systems makes the Sidewinder™ in the USA and offers a lifetime guarantee. To see complete product lines, visit online at www.elitesurvival.com or request a catalog toll-free at 866-340-2778.

HOGUE INC. ANNOUNCES LASER-ENHANCED GRIPS FOR SMITH & WESSON K/L AND J FRAME REVOLVERS

(Editorial correction from SAR V21N5) Hogue, Inc. is proud to announce the newest additions to their growing line of Laser Enhanced (LE) Grips. Revolver grips for Smith & Wesson’s round butt K/L and J Frames are now in stock. “For years our customers have been asking for Hogue Grips with lasers,” said LE Grip designer and managing partner Jim Bruhns. “We have expanded our line of Hogue LE Grips to include models for Smith & Wesson K, L and J Frame owners in direct response to customer demand.”

Hogue’s LE Grips are the first handgun laser sighting system on the market based on a fully programmable, digitally controlled microprocessor circuit. Hogue’s designers capitalized on the advantage by programming three operating modes (steady, flashing or stealth target) and four laser brightness levels into the LE Grip’s circuit. They also tapped into sophisticated power management routines to ensure long life from two common CR-2032 batteries hidden under the grip on the non-laser side–an important design feature enabling battery changes that won’t take the laser out of zero. Each LE Grip is bore-sighted at the factory while fine windage and elevation adjustments are accessible via small set screws. All of the Hogue LE Grip’s programming features are accessible via pressure-sensitive programming buttons.

The Hogue LE Grips for S&W revolvers are truly unique; the company’s engineers embedded the system’s 630-670nm

Hogue LE Grips are manufactured in their family-owned and operated USA facilities under the direct supervision of the Hogue family.

HOGUE HANDALL BEAVERTAIL GRIP SLEEVES

The new grip sleeves are designed to fit specific polymer pistols now on the market. “Polymer pistols do not have removable grips that you can simply replace,” said grip designer Matt Hogue. “The solution for many of these pistols is our new HandALL Beavertail Grip Sleeves.”

The Beavertail Grip Sleeve line has been engineered with models for precision fits on specific firearms. The initial offerings in this series have sleeves designed for perfect fits on three sizes of polymer firearms. The first offering precisely fits Smith & Wesson’s M&P 9mm and 40 Shield and Ruger’s LC9. The second sleeve fits Glock’s 42 and 43. The final sleeve is designed for Smith & Wesson’s M&P 45 Shield and Kahr Arms’ P9, P40, CW9 and CW40.

While each sleeve has been created for a precise fit on specific polymer framed firearms, they also alternatively fit many other similarly sized firearms with a fully functional and aesthetic fit. “These sleeves also provide a very nice fit for many pistols that may not have any other alternative available on the market,” said Hogue.

The Beavertail Grip Sleeves are installed by slipping them over the frame of the firearm until seated into perfect position. Once installed, the HandALL sleeve provides a single finger groove for instinctive handling of the firearm. The finger groove leads into a gentle palm swell that has been carefully designed to fit naturally in the hand. The beavertail built into the grip sleeve rises high along the back strap of the frame giving full rubber contact with the hand allowing a higher hand-placement on the grip without the fear of the slide biting the skin between the thumb and the trigger finger. In addition to protection and comfort, the beavertail also cushions the hand during recoil.

The HandALL is built from a long-lasting durable thermoplastic elastomer compound. This rubber ages very gracefully and keeps a firm, tacky feel throughout the life of the grip. It will not harden, split or crack with age or usage. The grip sleeve is textured with Hogue’s familiar Cobblestone texture, a series of small circular bumps that provide an efficient non-slip, non-irritating grip on the rubber. Hogue’s HandALL Beavertail Grips Sleeves have an MSRP of $9.95 for black and $10.95 for OD green, flat dark Earth, pink and purple.

Hogue grip sleeves are manufactured in their family-owned and operated facilities under the direct supervision of the Hogue family.

Hogue, Inc. supports local dealers and encourages customers to purchase Hogue products locally. For more information on these products, please call Hogue directly at 1-800-438-4747 or visit www.hogueinc.com to find a Hogue dealer near you.

KESTREL CONNECTED ECOSYSTEM LiNK COMMUNICATIONS WIRELESS PROTOCOL

Getting an accurate firing solution requires detailed information about the bullet and gun, the target and the environment. For a shooter to gather all that data, compute a solution and then dial their hold to take a shot is time-consuming and introduces opportunities for mistakes. Kestrel’s engineering team has created the LiNK communications protocol for connecting the components of a ballistics system. With LiNK, laser range finders, scopes and smart devices can all be connected to the Kestrel, replacing button presses on multiple devices for seamless, accurate shooting solutions when and where you want them.

SPYDERCO MANIX 2 BACK LOCK

The all-new Manix 2 Back Lock combines the proven design and ergonomics of the best-selling Manix 2 with an ultra-smooth, high-strength back lock mechanism. Its other unique features include lightweight linerless handle construction, fine-textured G-10 scales, a stainless steel back spacer and a four-position pocket clip. Four sets of threaded stainless steel inserts in the thick, hand-filling handle provide solid anchors for the clip and allow it to support left- or right-side tip-up or tip-down carry.

LONE WOLF DISTRIBUTORS BROWNING 1919A4 MACHINEGUN

Original Browning 1919A4 Machinegun rebuilt to semi-automatic configuration. Built on original US GI parts that were modified by Israeli Military industries to operate in .308 caliber. All guns are hand disassembled, inspected, reworked and refinished. All have been test fired and proven reliable. Built by John McGuire master gunsmith for Lone Wolf R&D LLC. John is the best in the 1919 business and his reputation speaks for itself.

• Marked to resemble original US GI engraving.
• Assembled using KMP side plate, trigger & sear.
• Meets military specifications.
• Includes 100 ammo links.
• Average shipping is ~$100.00, UPS surcharges may apply.
• All 1919A4’s are 50-state legal.
• Must ship to FFL.

Patriot Ordnance Factory
ReVolt

Part AR-15, part bolt-action, the POF-USA ReVolt gives you the modularity of an AR platform with the simplicity of a bolt gun. Available in 5.56 and 7.62×51, it is a perfect choice for hunters; and with the change to a captive pin at the factory it is legal in all 50 states!

POF-USA.com
877.561.9572

Windham Weaponry, Inc.
.450 Thumper

Windham Weaponry’s .450 Thumper is chambered for the powerful .450 Bushmaster cartridge. This 16-inch barreled powerhouse is designed for feral hog hunters who want to accurately place a hefty 250-grain bullet. Features include a Luth-AR Buttstock (adjustable for length of pull and cheek-rest height), Windham Weaponry free-float forend with multiple M-Lok mounting points and Hogue Overmolded Pistol Grip.

www.windhamweaponry.com
855.808.1888

Yankee Hill Machine
Hunt Ready Rifle

• Free Floating 20” 4140 steel diamond fluted barrel (improves rigidity, reduces weight and aids in barrel cooling)
• Chambered in 5.56, or 6.8 SPC
• Kryptek Highlander camouflage
• Forged 7075-T6 aluminum YHM lower receiver
• Forged 7075-T6 aluminum YHM flat top upper receiver
• YHM rifle length MR7 M-Lok handguard
• Forward assist
• YHM low profile gas block
• A2 trapdoor stock

YHM.net
877.892.6533

Yankee Hill Machine
Hunt Ready Carbine

• Free floating 16” 4140 steel barrel, diamond flute (improves rigidity, reduces weight and aids in barrel cooling)
• Chambered in 5.56, 300BLK or 6.8 SPC
• Kryptek Highlander camouflage
• Forged 7075-T6 aluminum YHM lower receiver
• Forged 7075-T6 aluminum YHM flat top upper receiver
• YHM Phantom 5C2 flash hider / compensator
• YHM rifle length MR7 M-Lok handguard
• YHM low profile gas block
• M4 telescoping commercial buttstock

YHM.net
877.892.6533

O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc.
MMR Tactical Optics Ready and MMR Tactical Vortex Red/Green Dot Combo Rifles

Mossberg assembled an AR15 with the perfect balance of features for hunting, home defense and competition with their line of MMR rifles. Chambered in 5.56mm, the MMR Tactical features 16-inch barrel, JM Pro Drop-In trigger, slim-profile forend with M-LOK system and 6-position adjustable stock. Combo comes with Vortex StrikeFire II Red/Green dot optic.

www.mossberg.com
800.363.3555

LWRC International LLC
LWRCI SIX8 RAZORBACK II

• Burnt bronze Cerakote
• Razorback magwell engraving
• New for 2017 SIX8 A5 design
• Two-position gas block
• 12-inch scallop cut rail
• LWRCI cold-hammer-forged, NiCorr-treated, heavy profile barrel
• A2 Flash Hider
• Type III hard-coat anodize on receivers and rails (clear hard-coat beneath Cerakoted rifles)
• Magpul MOE+ Grip and Magpul PMAG
• LWRCI advanced trigger guard
• Fully ambidextrous lower controls: mag release, bolt catch & release and selector
• LWRCI compact stock w/ QD sling mount
• LWRCI ambidextrous charging handle

LWRCI.com
410.901.1348

Osprey Publishing, Weapon Series

PUBLISHER: OSPREY PUBLISHING

www.ospreypublishing.com
SOFT COVER
7.25″ x 9.75″
80 PAGES, B&W AND COLOR PHOTOS THROUGHOUT

The Weapon series of booklets from Osprey Publishing covers a wide range of battle equipment, from longbows (WPN 30) and katana (WPN 5) to current issue weapons, such as the RPG-7 (WPN 2) and the FN Minimi light machine gun (WPN 53). There are currently 54 titles, with additional books regularly added.

While small in size, the various titles in this series contain a lot of information. At 80 pages per title, these books will certainly not rival the massive, encyclopedic reference books available for some guns. However, they do provide a very good start for getting familiar with a new gun. As each title is written by a different subject matter expert, the writing style will vary somewhat. Generally though, the booklet begins with a good bit of history and background to each weapon, and the path of development required to create the specific weapon. From there, a more detailed look at the different variants is given. The five titles reviewed here are typical of the overall series. All are available in multiple formats, namely paperback, ePub and PDF.

The Martini-Henry Rifle

by Stephen Manning
Copyright 2013
ISBN: 9781780965062 (WPN 26)

I recently wrote an article for another magazine about the legendary British Martini-Henry service rifle. I found myself referencing my copy of the Osprey booklet quite frequently. And I learned details about my own rifle that were previously unknown to me.

Written by Stephen Manning and illustrated by Peter Dennis, this one was released in May 2013. Dr. Manning is an expert in Victorian colonial warfare. He has published several other books on the history of warfare, although this is his first as part of the Osprey Weapon series. Mr. Dennis is a prolific illustrator, having created artwork for much of the Weapon series as well as other Osprey books.

The iconic Martini-Henry served the British Empire well, including in such famous battles as the Anglo-Zulu war of 1879 and skirmishes in Afghanistan, Egypt and the Sudan in the mid-1880s.

Covered in detail are the variants from Mk I to Mk VI and Cavalry Carbines. Also covered are later variants, including the Martini-Metford and Martini-Enfield series. Many of these were re-barreled conversions of old M-H rifles.

Numerous types of bayonets and scabbards are displayed in detail. Also covered are manufacturers’ markings (from the five factories that produced the M-H) and variations of proof marks. This information makes the book a valuable resource for collectors. Many period photos are featured. These are in B&W, as expected for the age. In addition, there are several crisp, clear color photos, as well as two paintings from the aforementioned Mr. Dennis. Both illustrations cover two full pages.

The Mosin-Nagant Rifle

by Bill Harriman
Copyright 2016
ISBN: 9781472814159 (WPN 50)

The Mosin-Nagant rifle is among the world’s longest-serving military rifles. Adopted by the Russian Empire in 1891, it saw frontline service in the Russian-Japanese war of 1905 and both World Wars, and continued to serve for some time afterwards. Sniper versions were issued as late as 1968.

Written by Bill Harriman, Director of Firearms at the British Association for Shooting and Conservation, and illustrated by Johnny Shumate and Alan Gilliland, this book covers the subject well. The Introduction begins with Harriman’s own awakening to the vast collector potential of a rifle that has played a central role in shaping recent history.

Beyond the various makes and marks of the rifle itself, this book also gives a brief look at various accessories, like bayonets, cleaning kits and the intriguing-looking combination (oil and cleaning solvent) tins. Twelve different tins are shown in a group photo. Also, six variations of the cartridge pouch are presented.

Many early B&W photos are featured, along with newer color photos. A color section view shows the inner workings of the gun, and several color sketches depict it in action. Two of these, by Johnny Shumate, span two full pages.

Colt Single-Action Revolvers

by Martin Pegler
Copyright 2017
ISBN: 9781472810984 (WPN 52)

Many fascinating photographs, line engravings and patent office drawings from the mid- to late-1800s add to the interest of this title. Included are actual period photos that show notable “Old West” figures Jesse and Frank James, Apache chief Geronimo, “Wild Bill” Hickok and Gen. George Custer posing with their sidearms.

The Introduction presents Col. Samuel Colt as a brilliant manufacturing and marketing guru, rather than as a great inventor. For while he did not single-handedly invent the revolver or mass production techniques, he did manage to build a name that is still synonymous with revolvers today.

It ends with similar observations. Col. Colt was an early and enthusiastic supporter of the “American system” or armory practice of mass production. By using a production line, machine tools, jigs and gauges, the Colt factory could produce truly interchangeable parts for their firearms. This allowed semi-skilled labor to create far better quality parts in less time.

The chapter titled “Development” profiles many of the early attempts to create a workable revolver. Several different flintlock revolvers that predate Colt’s first design are shown.

From there, the first wooden prototype carved by Colt is shown. It was this model that the still-teenage Sam Colt showed to a local gunsmith, Anson Chase. It was a five-shot cap and ball percussion gun. Later collaborations with makers such as Pearson, Paterson and Walker are then covered. Following these are the various cap and ball Army and Navy models, then the early cartridge designs and the so-called conversion guns. It closes with modern day production of the Single Action Army model.

The FN Minimi Light Machine Gun

by Chris McNab
Copyright 2017
ISBN: 9781472816214 (WPN 53)

This booklet has a slightly different writing style. Others in this series start with a long, leisurely historical look at preceding guns and how the evolution of arms led to the featured weapon. With this title, author Chris McNab jumps straight into the role the FN Minimi plays in modern warfare, along with some discussion of the limitations of the associated 5.56 NATO round, with only a brief look back at U.S. military trials. He also makes use of selected quotes from various battle reports, technical and Field manuals, and so on. This approach certainly works; this title just stands apart from other booklets in this series. In fact, as the role of the Minimi evolves in various armies, having these viewpoints to compare is worthwhile.

With the Minimi being adopted by many nations, there is also opportunity to discuss other variations. The book’s subtitle hints at this. Besides the U.S. M249, there are photographs and text depicting these variants. Amongst those of other nations, British (L108A1 Standard and L110A2 Para), Canadian (C9A1, C9A2) and Australian (F89) variants are mentioned.

I would have liked to see more emphasis placed on the versions made under license elsewhere. The majority of FN products are made in either Belgium or the FN-America plant in Columbia, SC. However, there are several other nations that produce licensed versions, some that make unlicensed copies, and some that make their own design that look suspiciously similar in various parts. The Israeli IMI Negev and Korean Daewoo K3 come to mind. These are mentioned ever so briefly.

The book features many photographs, almost all in full color. Again, two two-page paintings by illustrator Johnny Shumate are included.

The Suomi Submachine Gun

by Leroy Thompson
Copyright 2017
ISBN: 9781472819642 (WPN 54)

Designed in Finland, the Suomi submachine gun played a huge role in defending the country from Russian invasion during the Winter War (1939–40) and the Continuation War (1941–44). Even famed sniper Simo Hayha used a Suomi for over 200 of his astonishing 705 (reported) kills.

This book does a fine job of describing the gun in detail, as well as its participation in that nasty part of history. The Finnish soldiers used very effective guerrilla warfare hit-and-run type attacks on the Soviet invaders. Although they were badly outnumbered, they caused great damage to the Soviet morale.

By quoting many short battle reports and brief passages from other sources, author Leroy Thompson is able to describe the savageness of the fighting. These quotes are noted in the endnotes/bibliography section. Many are from websites.

Many B&W photos show the Finnish soldiers ready for combat, with their Suomi SMGs. Many of these photos feature ski patrol soldiers, all dressed in white. There are some current color photos of gun details and accessories, etc. Artist Adam Hook created two two-page paintings of battle scenes. The book also features a color cutaway drawing of the gun internals by artist Alan Gilliland.

Author Thompson also contrasts and compares the Suomi with other SMGs of the era, namely the U.S. Thompson, the French MAS-38, the Italian Beretta Modello 1938A and the Soviet PPSh-41. While it is interesting to compare the strengths and weaknesses of the various guns, the text jumps around a bit, making it difficult to follow. Also, I would have liked to see a group photo of all five guns together. This would allow a visual comparison of the sizes.

As noted above, this series covers many types of weapons from all periods of war. It is well researched and written, informative and nicely illustrated. While not the final word on a given firearm, they are certainly a great starting point. The Weapon series is one series of a much larger catalogue of military books from Osprey Publishing.

AK-47 The Grim Reaper (Second Edition)

By Frank Iannamico
Chipotle Publishing
www.smallarmsreview.com
1,085 pages
ISBN 978-0-9823918-5-3
$69.95 USD

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

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

The book begins with Chapter 1 on the development of the modern day assault rifle with discussion of the U.S. Army Weapons Command Research & Engineering Directorate Small Arms System Laboratory testing on the AK-47 rifle from experience in Vietnam. It also parallels the development of the AK-47 with parallel to U.S. small arms development and ammunition development. Included are detailed historical descriptions of the German Sturmgewehr and its 7.92x33mm intermediate round and its influence on Kalashnikov’s design as well as the introduction to Kalashnikov’s story of his development of the rifle and its trail to the hands of the Soviet soldier.

Chapter 2 gives an introduction to the numerous Russian weapons factories spread out over the vast lands of the former Soviet Union. The arsenal marks are shown and how to identify the weapon with the factory that produced it. The second edition adds photographs of current manufacturing of the rifle.

Chapter 3 begins the analysis of the developmental history of the AK47. There are thorough descriptions and photographs of the first, second and third generation rifles. The second edition offers more detailed photographs of the first and second generation rifles to help the reader understand how they were built and what the exact differences are. Attention is given to every detail and every change. This includes both fixed and underfolding stock variations of all three generations of the rifle.

Chapter 4 introduces the AKM and its derivatives. All changes are documented on the 3rd generation machined receivers’ transformation into the lower weight (2.5 pounds less) stamped AKM rifle. Many detailed photographs and drawings clearly define the changes that make up the AKM.

Chapter 5 documents the development and history of the small caliber 5.45x39mm cartridge and the new AK-74 which would eventually replace the AK-47/AKM family of weapons in the Soviet Army. The AK-74 has gone through many incremental changes and continues to this very day. Through this chapter the reader will see the advancements in Soviet/Russian manufacturing capabilities.

Chapter 6 takes the reader through the latest developments in the AK-series of rifles, the AK-100 Series. Designed for export use, the rifle goes through an update in furniture as well as the introduction of rifles that will fire the NATO 5.56x45mm cartridge. Additional gas systems, stocks and barrels are introduced. The end of this chapter also introduces and describes in detail the AN-94 rifle, the rifle that was supposed to replace the AK-74.

Chapter 7 shows other Kalashnikov developed weapons including the Bizon submachine gun, RPK, RPKS, RPK-74, RPKS-74, PK, PKM and SVD.

Chapter 8 documents the Warsaw Pact countries that the Soviet Union set up manufacturing facilities in their country to produce the array of Kalashnikov weapons. Russia states now that many of the rifles produced are illegal clones that were not licensed by Russia for the use of their technical data. The proliferation of sales throughout all these former Warsaw Pact countries have hurt Russian companies from selling the rifle that originated with them. This chapter details description of all of the countries the Soviet Union licensed manufacturing rights to the AK-47 family of weapons and their variations. There are significant numbers of new photographs added to this chapter from the first edition.

Chapter 9 discusses production of AK-type rifles outside of the former Warsaw Pact countries – one of the largest being China. China has many different variations of the AK-type rifle and sold them abroad in large numbers. Egypt is another large producer. Greatly expanded information about AK-production in Iraq including many new photographs not found in the first edition. Also included are North Korea, Pakistan-Khyber Pass-Afghanistan, Yugoslavia/Serbia and Croatia.

Chapter 10 goes into Kalashnikov design derivatives which are rifles that closely copy or borrow a significant number of features from the design. These countries include Czechoslovakia, Finland Valmet rifles, Israeli Galil and South African R-4 series.

Chapter 11 takes the reader through the AK introduction to the American market with the history of the imported sporting rifles into the U.S. starting with the Finish Valmet and Egyptian Maadi versions. Additionally, for all the “Wolverines!” fans out there, the second edition gives the historical details of the rifles that were used in the movie Red Dawn. The introduction of Chinese rifles to the U.S. market was vast and in different variations, which are all documented and photographed in the book. Descriptions and photographs follow with Hungarian and Yugoslavian sporting versions of the AK rifle.

Chapter 12 marks the dark days of the Assault Weapon Ban. This marked the 1989 importation ban and all the legalities of assembling post ban rifles with pre-ban configuration parts. Also included is the discussion of all the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act, The 1994 Assault Weapon Ban and its sunset in 2004. Descriptions and photographs of the numerous imported AK-type rifles are contained in this chapter.

Chapter 13 chronicles AK’s that are made in the USA. Many are American made receivers built up with foreign parts kits. Many American companies are listed who either manufacture or modify different variations of the rifles mixing in American made parts.

Chapter 14 delves into the magazine variations of all generations and all caliber AK-type rifles with detailed photos and descriptions of the magazines made in numerous countries.

Chapter 15 gives detailed descriptions of ammunition. This will include identification of ammunition types as well as the arsenals in which they were manufactured. This covers both 7.62x39mm and 5.45x39mm.

Chapter 16 gives a collectors description of accouterments including bayonets, grenade launchers, rifle grenades, sound suppressors, night vision, scopes, carrying cases, cleaning kits, blank firing adapters, magazine pouches and slings.

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

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

Eraser: Congratulations, You’ve Just Been Erased

The Calico Rifle is one of the most futuristic-looking weapons on the market. Manufactured by Calico Light Weapons Inc. (CLWS), it looks like a prop gun from Star Wars. In fact, in the parody of that film, Space Balls, the enemy soldiers are equipped with Calico 100s. They have been used in other films as well, including the Robocop series, Star Trek: First Contact, The Running Man, Tango & Cash and Total Recall. In 1991, some M951 Calico 9x19mm rifles were used in the opening battle scene of Terminator 2: Judgment Day. They were covered with a movie prop clamshell to make them look more futuristic. Calico 9mm pistols and some SMGs were also used.

Five years later, the same Calico rifles were used in another movie starring Arnold Schwarzenegger. The film is called Eraser. It also stars James Caan, Vanessa L. Williams and the late Robert Pastorelli. In the film, Schwarzenegger plays John Kruger, a U.S. Marshal who works on faking the deaths of important witnesses, then giving them new identities to keep them safe. In short, he erases them. His job in the film is to protect Vanessa Williams’ character from a corrupt weapons company that plans on making black market sales of futuristic railguns that can be used by individual gunmen.

The Calico M951 guns were used by security guards that were sent after John Kruger when he snuck into the manufacturer’s office to learn the company’s plan. The guns are equipped with Aimpoint 3000 optics, as well as lasers, though we don’t see them used in the movie. The scene becomes very entertaining when an elevator full of guards starts shooting at John Kruger. John quickly grabs another guard and uses him as a shield. He then straps a grenade to the guard, pulls the pin and pushes him into the elevator, causing an explosion that takes out the other guards.

CLWS first opened its doors in 1982 and produced its first firearms in 1985. The company is currently located in Oregon and produces both carbines and pistols, most of which are available for private ownership. The most interesting thing about the Calico rifles is the magazine. It is a large, long drum that is located on the top of the gun at the back on the receiver. Unlike the Thompson and PPSh 41 drums, the Calico drums are a helical. The Calico drums hold from 50 to 100 rounds of 9x19mm ammunition. The Calico itself is a very good, lightweight gun with light recoil and very little muzzle climb.

A little side note on the optics: they are the product of Aimpoint AB, which specializes in red dot sights for both government and civilian use. The Aimpoint 3000 was actually their best product at the time and was used in the first Gulf War. It was so well received that it won the optical product of the year award in both France and the USA. It has been discontinued in production for some time but is still in use by some U.S. forces.

The movie Eraser is another enjoyable movie. Schwarzenegger and most of the other actors do a good job, especially Robert Pastorelli, who is great as a former gangster. It has some good lines, and the action and humor are wonderful. The story does have some problems, though—mostly small stuff. The idea of mini railguns being used by common soldiers is an interesting idea. And the scene in which Schwarzenegger carries and shoots two of them is a great one.

Far from being consigned to action and science fiction movies, railguns are actually being built by the United States Armed Forces. Simply put, railguns can shoot a round up to 100 miles using electronic energy without gunpowder or a case. They are quite powerful but are still in testing. There is talk of having one on a warship, but it will still be a while before we see warships or even tanks equipped with these futuristic weapons.

Russia maintained the largest force of armored cars of any of the allies in World War I. A typical armored car platoon consisted of two or three twin-turreted cars, such as Austins, Fiats and other makes armed with Maxim or Colt automatic guns, and one or two armored trucks mounting short-barreled 75mm guns. American-made Indian motorcycles provided communications, and some had machine guns mounted to give anti-aircraft cover. By November 1917, over 200 armored cars were in service. The insignia for the Motor Transport Service features two winged wheels and a steering wheel. The addition of a Maxim gun to the top of the steering wheel specifically identifies the Armored Car Service. The armored cars were totally encased in armor plate, as were the machine gun turrets.

I. Russian headquarters banner for the 20th Automobile Machine Gun Platoon. 

The use of the red background, made of thick velvet material, indicates that this banner was created after the February 1917 Revolution. Onto this background is stitched white cotton linen in the shapes of the number, Cyrillic letter abbreviations and aforementioned insignia for the Armored Car Service. The banner measures approximately 35 x 21 inches.

II. Imperial Russian Army uniform shoulder boards. 

This pair is for a 7th Siberian Automobile Machine Gun Platoon armored car driver. The branch insignia “7Sb Shifrovka” indicates the 7th Siberian Rifle Regiment. The red stripe and single star indicate the rank of junior officer in the reserves. Silver-plated buttons depict the Russian twin-headed Imperial Eagles.

III. German soldiers in World War I check out a captured or disabled Russian armored car. 

Note the insignia of the wheeled and winged Maxim machine gun, denoting the Automobile Machine Gun units, painted on the side and rear of the vehicle.

IV. Profile photograph of a Russian armored car. 

Note the Automobile Machine Gun Armored Car Service insignia with the horizontal Maxim gun on the winged wheels painted on the side.

The Russians had another very similar insignia for armored mobile anti-aircraft units that consisted of a single wheel with wings and a Maxim machine gun pointed upwards. By order N105 Military Department from 1916, the single wheel, winged insignia with the upraised Maxim machine gun became the insignia for mobile armored air defense machine gun units of the Motor Transport Division. These armored cars generally had open tops to allow the machine gun 360-degree vertical access for anti-aircraft work.

A. Russian soldier’s shoulder boards for the 1st Special Armored Automobile Air Defense. 

The shoulder boards are red with brass buttons depicting the Tsarist double-headed Imperial Eagle, and they also show the insignia of the upraised Maxim gun atop a steering wheel joined to a single, winged wheel. Below this insignia is the number “1.”

B. Breast badge worn on the coat or tunic of a Russian commander in an anti-aircraft armored car unit. Post-revolution due to the red star at the top of the wreath. 

Screw back.

C. Russian (Red) Army machine gun qualification sleeve badge for the mobile armored anti-aircraft Motor Transport Division. 

Heavy bullion embroidery on a black wool background.

D. Two armored cars of the Motor Transport Division attached to the mobile armored anti-aircraft infantry company. 

Note the white guidon flag with the insignia of the single wheel, wings and upraised Maxim machine gun. Close inspection reveals that the armored car in the background also has the insignia painted on the door.

DEWAT Firearms and How They Are Regulated Under Federal Law

We regularly receive inquiries from firearms collectors who have acquired a “DEWAT” and ask us for advice on how to register the firearm under the National Firearms Act (NFA). “DEWAT” is an acronym for “deactivated war trophy” and generally refers to firearms that WWII-era servicemen bring back to the United States as war trophies or souvenirs. There appears to be confusion in the firearms community on the significance of a DEWAT classification and whether registration documents with this label mean a particular firearm is lawfully registered and transferable under the NFA.

This article addresses the original DEWAT Program established by the United States in 1945, implementation of the program by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and how amendments to the statute in 1968 affect the registration status of firearms registered under the program.

I. Background

A. Statutory Background and History

Congress enacted the NFA, 26 U.S.C. Chapter 53, in 1934 to address firearms violence involving machineguns, short barrel shotguns, short barrel rifles, silencers and other concealable weapons. The NFA requires registration of all such firearms, approval of firearm transfers in advance and payment of a $200 transfer tax for each firearm transferred. As enacted in 1934, the statute allowed possessors of NFA firearms to register their firearms by completing a form and submitting it without tax as long as the submission was within 60 days of the date of enactment of the statute.¹

The NFA also included exemptions from the $200 transfer tax for any firearm which was “unserviceable” and which was transferred as a “curiosity or ornament.” The term “unserviceable” was not defined in the statute until 1968, as discussed below.

Significantly, the statute as enacted in 1934 defined the term “machinegun” as follows:

Machinegun—The term “machine gun” means any weapon which shoots, or is designed to shoot, automatically or semi-automatically, more than one shot, without manual reloading, by a single function of the trigger.

Thus, as enacted, the NFA did not regulate receivers for machineguns as “machineguns.”

In 1968, the Gun Control Act amended the NFA in a number of significant ways. First, the definition of “machinegun” was amended to specifically include the frame or receiver of such a weapon. A new section, 5841(d), was added providing that a person shown by the government’s NFA records as possessing a firearm on the effective date of enactment (October 22, 1968) is considered to have registered the firearm under the statute. This provision ensured that any person who, prior to October 22, 1968, submitted a DEWAT registration document (more on this below) would be considered as lawfully registering the firearm under the NFA. It is important to point out that starting in 1968, only manufacturers, importers and makers of NFA firearms are permitted to register the NFA firearms they manufacture, import or make. Mere possessors of firearms are not allowed to register.

Another amendment made in 1968 was the addition of the term “unserviceable firearm,” defined as a firearm incapable of discharging a shot by means of an explosive and incapable of being readily restored to a firing condition. The NFA was amended to provide that an unserviceable firearm may be transferred without payment of transfer tax. Provisions relating to “unserviceable firearms” remain in the NFA in 26 U.S.C. §§5845 and 5852(e).

Section 207(b) of the Gun Control Act of 1968 required the Secretary of the Treasury to establish an amnesty period allowing any person possessing a firearm subject to the NFA to register it during the 30-day amnesty program. This amnesty period was enacted as a response to a 1968 Supreme Court decision, United States v. Haynes, which declared portions of the statute unconstitutional. The Haynes decision held that the provisions of the NFA requiring mere possessors to register firearms violated the constitutional right against self-incrimination. The Court reasoned that by requiring such individuals to submit a form to the IRS admitting possession of an unregistered firearm provided the government with information that could be used to prosecute them. Congress responded to the Haynes decision by adding a provision to the NFA prohibiting the government’s use of information from registration or transfer applications as evidence in a criminal proceeding and by requiring the 30-day amnesty period to allow mere possessors to register firearms without penalty.

The IRS implemented the amnesty provisions of Section 207(b) and allowed registration of firearms by possessors for an initial 30-day period from November 1, 1968 to December 1, 1968. Firearms were registered during the amnesty period on IRS Form 4467. The agency allowed persons to register firearms beyond the December 1, 1968, cutoff date if they provided evidence they were out of the country during the 30-day period and unaware of the registration period or unable to register during the period. The IRS registered over 60,000 firearms during the 1968 amnesty period.

Finally, no discussion of machineguns is complete without a reference to 18 U.S.C. §922(o). This provision of the Gun Control Act was added by the Firearms Owners Protection Act of 1986 and generally prohibits the transfer or possession of a machinegun. Exceptions are provided for machineguns lawfully possessed prior to May 19, 1986 (the date of enactment), and for transfers to or by, or possession by or under, the authority of a federal, state or local government agency.

B. Establishment of the DEWAT Program

The Deactivated War Trophy Program (hereinafter “DEWAT Program”) was established in 1945 as a means of allowing returning servicemen to retain war trophies and affording the opportunity to effect NFA registration and control over subsequent transfers of properly deactivated firearms. The earliest evidence of the DEWAT Program the authors were able to locate is in War Department Circular 217, dated June 1, 1944. Section VIII of the circular indicates the purpose of the DEWAT Program was to improve the morale of military personnel by allowing them to retain war trophies. The circular allows importation of “small items of enemy equipment” except name plates removed from captured equipment, items which contain explosives and other items useful to the military. The circular requires that servicemen returning to the U.S. with war trophies in their possession have a certificate signed by a superior officer stating the bearer is authorized by the theater commander to retain as personal property articles listed on the certificate. The circular also indicates Customs officials were directed to accept a copy of the certificate to allow lawful importation of the war trophies.

Documents from the IRS issued in 1946 also indicate recognition of the DEWATS program. The IRS documents indicate that War Department Circular 217 was subsequently revoked when domestic law enforcement officials expressed concern about the policy and the threat allegedly deactivated machineguns presented to police. The 1946 documents indicate that even after the War Department Circular was revoked, numbers of firearms were
¹ In SAR Volume 21, Number 4, we published an article titled, “Short Barrel Rifles and Short Barrel Shotguns: Understanding Federal Regulations.” The article misstated that persons in possession of NFA firearms on the date the statute was enacted were required to pay a $200 registration tax. Indeed, only transfers of NFA firearms were subject to the $200 tax, as possessors who registered firearms with the IRS were not required to pay a tax. We apologize to readers for this erroneous statement.

brought into the U.S. notwithstanding revocation of the policy. The IRS document indicates the agency continued to work to secure registration of the “illegally imported captured enemy equipment” and to have such firearms rendered permanently inoperable to keep them out of the hands of “gangsters.”

C. Evolution of the DEWAT Program–IRS Rulings

Three documents issued by the IRS in the 1950s demonstrate the evolution of the DEWAT Program.

(1) Rev. Rul. 55-590

Rev. Rul. 55-590 held that firearms “in the war trophy class” that are deactivated under the supervision of an IRS investigator are “harmless ordnance curios” not regulated as “firearms” under the NFA. The ruling noted that of the many thousands of war trophy firearms registered under the program, many were rendered unserviceable by steel welding the breech end of the barrel closed and steel welding the barrel to the frame. Recall that the term “unserviceable” would not be defined in the NFA until 1968, leaving the IRS free to interpret the term as the agency saw fit. The ruling notes that these actions rendered the weapons harmless, did not destroy their trophy value and permitted subsequent tax-free transfer. The ruling also notes that such weapons, although not regulated as “firearms,” were required to be “notified” on Form 5 for each transfer. This makes no sense to the authors, because if the items are not “firearms,” then why was there a transfer application? In any event, Rev. Rul. 55-590 clarified the requirements for DEWAT firearms and held that if the items were registered and deactivated under the supervision of an IRS investigator, they are not “firearms” under the purview of the NFA.

Rev. Rul. 55-590 also states that any person possessing a “contraband firearm” who wishes to have the firearm transformed into a DEWAT should contact the nearest IRS office for the purpose of executing an application for registration on Form 1. The ruling states that after deactivation is complete, the word “DEWAT” will be added to the Form 1 description for the firearm, and the notation “removed from classification of a firearm by steel welding in the prescribed manner on (date)” will also be added.

(2) Rev. Rul. 57-227

This IRS ruling emphasized that only those firearms deactivated in the manner specified in Rev. Rul. 55-590 (under the supervision of an IRS investigator) are classified as a DEWAT not regulated under the NFA. The ruling states that all other firearms are regulated under the NFA notwithstanding their operating condition. The ruling notes that such firearms may be classified as “unserviceable firearms,” which exempts them only from transfer tax and not from the registration and transfer requirements of the statute.

(3) Rev. Proc. 58-8

This Revenue Procedure announced the termination of the DEWAT Program. On and after July 1, 1958, only a natural person who lawfully possesses a firearm would be allowed to transform the firearm into a DEWAT. The procedure further specified that the transformation of the firearm into a DEWAT would be allowed only by meeting the following conditions: (1) the firearm was registered under the NFA; (2) the firearm was made in accordance with the NFA; (3) the firearm was transferred in accordance with the NFA; or (4) the firearm was imported in accordance with the NFA. The procedure further states that after deactivation the IRS investigator who supervises the deactivation must endorse the Form 1, Form 4, Form 5 or Form 6, as the case may be, held by the owner. The procedure holds that such a DEWAT is not a “firearm” under the NFA, and subsequent transfers of the firearm need not be approved by the IRS. Finally, the procedure held that any unregistered firearm subject to the NFA will be considered contraband subject to forfeiture to the United States.

II. How are DEWAT Firearms Regulated?

The history outlined above indicates the twists and turns taken by the DEWAT program and raises a number of questions about firearms that were ostensibly registered as “DEWAT” from 1945-1958. We list those questions and our answers below. Please note that our answers are neither intended to be, and should not be, construed as legal advice nor do they form an attorney-client relationship.

1. Are machineguns registered as DEWAT on a Form 1, Form 4, Form 5 or Form 6 lawfully registered under the NFA?

Machineguns lawfully registered under the DEWAT program from 1945-1958 that are accompanied by Forms 1, 4, 5 or 6 indicating inspection by an IRS investigator are considered properly registered to the person whose name is listed as the registrant on such form under the NFA. This is because of the language of 26 U.S.C. §5841(d) providing that any person shown as possessing a firearm under NFA records in existence on October 22, 1968, is considered to have registered the firearm.

If the DEWAT was transferred after registration (without a transfer application, because the IRS did not consider DEWAT firearms to be “firearms”) to any other person, then ATF considers it to be lawfully registered only if the machinegun was again registered under the 1968 amnesty program. This is because the amendment of the definition of “machinegun” in 1968 to include the frame or receiver of such a firearm made it clear that even deactivated DEWAT firearms are included within the NFA and must be registered. The transferee would not be protected by the language of §5841(d) because NFA records did not show that person as possessing the firearm on October 22, 1968. Unfortunately, ATF will recognize the validity of a DEWAT registration only if the firearm remains in the hands of the original registrant.

Assuming the DEWAT was registered during the 1968 amnesty, then all transfers must have been approved in advance by ATF, and the current possessor must have registration documents indicating the machinegun is registered to him or her.

2. What about firearms other than machineguns, such as short-barrel rifles? If lawfully registered under the DEWAT program, are DEWAT rifles registered under the NFA?

All NFA firearms, including short-barrel rifles, properly deactivated and registered under the DEWAT program are considered properly registered to the person whose name is listed as the registrant on the registration form. However, if the short barrel rifle was transferred to another person, it is not considered registered unless the DEWAT was again registered during the 1968 amnesty program. Even though there was no change in the definition of “short barrel rifle” in the NFA, ATF will not recognize the registration unless the rifle remains in the hands of the original DEWAT registrant.

3. Assuming a DEWAT machinegun is lawfully registered to the possessor, is it considered a “grandfathered” machinegun so it is not subject to 18 U.S.C. §922(o)?

Yes.

4. May lawfully registered DEWAT firearms be transferred to another person?

Yes. The firearms may be transferred free of tax as “unserviceable firearms” through submission of ATF Form 5. All transfers must be approved by ATF in advance.

5. If an individual has a DEWAT firearm lawfully registered to him, may the firearm be reactivated?

Yes. ATF requires that a Form 1 application be submitted prior to reactivation of a DEWAT firearm. ATF will also permit a qualified manufacturer to reactivate a DEWAT and report its manufacture on Form 2. This would require a Form 4 tax-paid transfer from the manufacturer to the owner of the reactivated firearm. If the firearm is a machinegun, ATF considers it to be grandfathered so it is not subject to the restrictions of 18 U.S.C. §922(o).

III. Conclusion

Firearms collectors given the opportunity to purchase an alleged DEWAT firearm should proceed with caution. Even if registration documents appear to match the firearm, ATF may or may not recognize the registration documents as valid. If the alleged DEWAT is no longer in the hands of the original registrant and was not again registered during the 1968 amnesty period, the firearm could be contraband. If so, possessing the firearm could place the possessor in violation of the law. Individuals considering purchase of DEWAT firearms would be well advised to contact ATF’s National Firearms Act Branch for guidance or discuss the transaction with qualified counsel.

The information contained in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be construed or used as legal advice or as legal opinion. You should not rely or act on any information contained in this article without first seeking the advice of an attorney. Receipt of this article does not establish an attorney-client relationship.?

About the Authors

Johanna Reeves is the founding partner of the law firm Reeves & Dola, LLP in Washington, DC (www.reevesdola.com). For more than 10 years she has dedicated her practice to advising and representing U.S. companies on compliance matters arising under the federal firearms laws and U.S. export controls. Since 2011, Johanna also has served as Executive Director for the FireArms Import/Export Roundtable (F.A.I.R.) Trade Group (http://fairtradegroup.org). In 2016, Johanna was appointed by the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs to serve on the 2016-18 Defense Trade Advisory Group (DTAG).

Teresa Ficaretta is an expert on ATF regulations under the Gun Control Act, the National Firearms Act, the Arms Export Control Act and Federal explosives laws. Before joining Reeves & Dola in 2013, Teresa served as legal counsel to ATF for 26 years, followed by two years as Deputy Assistant Director in Enforcement Programs and Services. Teresa was elected partner to Reeves & Dola in January 2016.

Both Johanna and Teresa can be reached at 202-683-4200, or at info@reevesdola.com.