By Chris A. Choat

MAGNUM RESEARCH ANNOUNCES EXCITING ANIMAL PRINT DESERT EAGLES

In February of this year, Magnum Research introduced the first in a series of animal print Desert Eagles. Following in the success of the Cheetah print, which is now sold out, MRI is now introducing their latest two animal prints, the Kryptek Highlander and the Snakeskin, available in either .50 AE or .44 Mag. The two new designs, the Kryptek Highlander and the Snakeskin patterns, utilize a water transfer method. It has been extensively tested for durability and has proven to be very tough; even cleaning solvents and acetone will not soften or damage the finish.

The Desert Eagle .50 AE is a gas-operated, semi-automatic pistol with a 7-round capacity in .50 AE and 8-round capacity in .44 Magnum. Both guns measure 10.75” in length with a 6” barrel. Slide width is 1.25”, height 6.25” and the weight with an empty magazine is approximately 4 lbs. (Also 5.8 oz. in .50 AE and 4 lbs. 6.6 oz. in the .44 Mag.) It has a trigger reach of 2.75” and a sight radius of 8.5” with the 6” barrel. The construction of the Desert Eagle utilizes the latest CNC machine technology providing exacting specifications with tight tolerances creating a work of art in a precision firearm. The grip is anatomically formed and provides an ideal hand seating angle for two-handed shooting, allowing for comfortable, rapid and accurate firing. The Weaver style accessory rail easily allows for aftermarket optics and scope rings. The limited edition Kryptek Highlander and Snakeskin print Desert Eagles are only available while supplies last. Please visit your favorite dealer today to purchase it in either .50 AE or .44 Magnum. Watch for additional animal patterns which will be introduced later in the year. The MSRP on either of the new patterns for the Desert Eagle is $1,793 for the .50 AE or the .44 Magnum. For more information about Magnum Research products, visit www.magnumresearch.com.

SPORTEAR CHANGES THE HEARING PROTECTION GAME

SportEAR, an authority in Hearing Performance™, has taken hearing protection innovation to the next level with their new Custom Edge™ product line. The new line features all new, 100% Lynx Digital™ circuitry and the world’s first waterproof in-ear sport hearing devices for unrivaled performance and reliability. The new Custom Edge™ line by SportEAR is setting a new standard for Hearing Performance™ in the outdoor industry. With proprietary 100% Lynx™ Digital Signal Processing (DSP), the entire Custom Edge™ line of in-ear and behind ear devices offer 100% Digital sound re-creation to deliver the very best sound clarity available, processing over a million sounds per second. Using the most advanced technology, SportEAR allows shooters to enhance speech and desirable sounds while simultaneously suppressing the damaging effects of muzzle blast and other loud noises. The SportEAR AutoBlocker™ Digital Compression easily handles rapid shots, ensuring full protection regardless of your sport. The new 100% Lynx™ Digital circuitry also eliminates distracting background noise and eliminates the annoying “whistle” common in electronic hearing protection. SportEAR is the only hearing protection line to provide 360 Degree Hearing Performance™ through its entire product line, offering unparalleled hearing enhancement & protection simultaneously. To help further educate users about true 360 Hearing Performance™, SportEAR has launched a new, multi-media website at www.SportEAR.com.

CTK PRECISION INTRODUCES BUTTSTOCK FOR LUTH-AR STOCK

CTK Precision, manufacturer of innovative shooting equipment and gun accessories, is proud to introduce the AR Buttstock Rail for the LUTH-AR stock. The AR Buttstock Rail is a Picatinny rail designed to mount at the sling attachment point on the underside of LUTH-AR MBA-1 and MBA-2 stocks. This accessory rail meets MIL-STD-1913 specifications, so it may be used as a means of attachment for any product designed for use on a standard Picatinny rail, including the CTK Precision Ultimate Rail-Pod. The AR Buttstock Rail incorporates a sling swivel mount point so that you may attach a sling, in addition to a rear monopod. It is CNC machined from billet 6061 aluminum for high strength and low weight. It also has a durable black MIL-SPEC hard coat anodized finish. It is 2.5 inches long and weighs just .7 ounces. The new rail meets MIL-STD-1913 specifications and it is made in the U.S.A.! For more information on the AR Buttstock Rail, visit: www.ctkprecision.com/ar-buttstock-rail.aspx.

UTG INTRODUCES NEW 3X MAGNIFIER

Applying a mid-range solution to a sight system designed for CQB is something Leapers UTG has extensive experience with. The venerable UTG brand magnifiers are undeniably some of the most popular and affordable mid range optic enhancement tools in the industry. The new SCP-MF3WEQS closely follows that tradition, but has an additional perk. This smooth operating 3x magnifier comes equipped with windage and elevation adjustability, allowing an easy centering of a dot or reticle. This feature has been requested by many users and although not necessary for functionality, Leapers has answered the call and seamlessly incorporated the functionality with easy to access windage and elevation screws within the main body. The magnifier is built on UTG’s patented Flip-to-Side system on a MIL-STD-1913 (Picatinny) base and is constructed of lightweight, durable aircraft grade aluminum with a black anodized hardcoat for wear resistance. Providing clear and accurate target magnification up to medium ranges can make all the difference in a tactical rifle, and the new Leapers magnifier shines in this role. Visit the company website at www.leapers.com.

CCI ANNOUNCES A17 VARMINT TIP AMMO NEW SAVAGE A17 RIFLE

Shooters can now get Magnum rimfire performance in a semiautomatic rifle, thanks to the new CCI® A17 Varmint Tip ammunition. Shipments of this ammunition are currently being delivered to distributors. CCI engineers literally built this 17 HMR load around the A17 rifle from Savage Arms™. The round is optimized for feeding and function in the all-new semiautomatic rifle, and produces muzzle velocities 100 fps faster than other 17 HMR loads with the same bullet weight. Its Varmint Tip bullet ensures explosive expansion and quick, clean kills. This ammunition has been optimized for feeding and function in the new Savage Arms A17 semiautomatic rifle and can also be fired through bolt action 17 HMR firearms. It is 100 fps faster than other 17 HMR loads of the same weight. The ammunition’s Varmint Tip bullet provides rapid expansion. The rounds have an exclusive headstamp and come in 200-round packs. You can find more information at www.cci-ammunition.com.

SAVAGE ARMS INTRODUCES A17 SEMI-AUTO RIFLE IN 17 HMR

Savage Arms™ continues its track record of innovation with the all-new A17, the first high-performance semiautomatic rimfire rifle specifically designed for the 17 HMR cartridge. Shipments of this rifle are currently being delivered to distributors. The A17’s unique delayed-blowback action performs to its peak with new A17 Varmint Tip ammunition, which CCI® developed specifically for the rifle. The A17 also provides safe, reliable operation with standard 17 HMR loads. The hard chrome bolt, case-hardened receiver, 10-round rotary magazine and button-rifled barrel boost performance even further, while the user-adjustable AccuTrigger™ provides a crisp, light pull for the best possible accuracy. The A17 is the first semi-automatic rimfire specifically designed from the ground up for the 17 HMR. It offers delayed-blowback action which ensures safe, reliable cycling. The gun has a hard chrome bolt, case-hardened receiver, oversized bolt handle and a 10-round rotary magazine. It also has a 22-inch button-rifled barrel and user-adjustable AccuTrigger™. For peak performance it should be paired with CCI A17 Varmint Tip ammunition. For more information go to www.savagearms.com.

The barrel bushing showed good, tight fitting but could be field stripped with the fingers.

By R.K. Campbell

The field of 1911 handguns is crowded. There are many offerings, some of which are purely recreational handguns. The least expensive pistols are made to sell and are seldom worth betting your life on. Among the pistols tested and proven in the “affordable” range is the Magnum Research Desert Eagle. Over the past two years, I have fired approx. 2,000 rounds through several of these handguns. The consensus between myself and other interested shooters is that the pistols are good examples of the breed. They have good features and pricing in the low end of reliable 1911 handguns beginning at about $800. There are many models, however, and you must put in some time and research in choosing the pistol best suited to your needs. The bottom line is these handguns seem to be service grade after extensive testing and the performance is consummate with the reputation of Israel’s firearms industry. It is always good to find a stocking dealer, but increasingly we order a pistol and hope the product that is delivered lives up to the promise. In this case, the Desert Eagle 1911 has lived up to the promise of a reliable 1911 handgun.

The first handgun tested was the 1911 G (“G” stands for Government Model). It is is a full size 1911 pistol with a 5-inch barrel. The Desert Eagle 1911 features controls that are designed to be ergonomic. The original beavertail grip safety, slide lock safety and well-designed grip are all 1911. The pistol features a low bore axis with a good balance that limits muzzle flip. There is little leverage for the handgun to rise in recoil. Trigger compression is straight to the rear and controllable. The slide lock safety is secure, indents firmly, and allows a trained shooter to deliver a brilliantly fast first shot. Upgrades include a speed safety and a wide beavertail type grip safety. The grip safety is more comfortable than the GI type, but more importantly helps lead the hand to the grip and ensures the grip safety is properly depressed.

Like many modern 1911 handguns, the Desert Eagle 1911 features a cast frame and machined slide. While the pistols I have tested were blue steel versions, stainless steel pistols are also included in the lineup. The full size Government Model pistols feature forward cocking serrations. The Commander versions feature a standard slide. The mainspring housing is nicely checkered for a non-slip surface. The grips are credible designs that offer sufficient abrasion for good adhesion when firing the .45 ACP cartridge. The quality of the parts and the fit and finish is good. The Allen screw grip panels require a tool for removal, while the original 1911 grips could be removed with a cartridge case rim. The sights are among the pistol’s best features. The front post is a dovetail unit solidly anchored in place. The rear sight is, by definition, a high profile type that offers rapid acquisition during combat shooting. If you have a sight tool, the rear sight is adjustable for windage. The ejection port is enlarged and scalloped in the modern fashion and a full-length guide rod complicates field strip. On the other hand, some feel that the rigid guide rod is an improvement over the original 1911 design. With the FLGR, the slide assembly may be removed in one piece.

The pistol was field stripped and inspected and there were a minimum number of tool marks. Quality of manufacture seems good. The pistol was lubricated on its long bearing surfaces and a supply of magazines loaded with the Black Hills Ammunition 230 grain FMJ load was prepared. The pistol needs to be proofed with round nose loads of standard weight and velocity before moving to hollow point loads. For a trained shooter, the Government Model 1911 isn’t a hard pistol to control, and we expected good results. Drawing from a D.M. Bullard holster, the pistol proved fast on target and fast to a first shot hit. Firing fifty rounds of 230 grain from Ed Brown magazines proved the pistol comes out of the box running without a break or malfunction. The forward cocking serrations were used to rack the slide and worked well enough.

Moving to the 25 yard line, the Ed Brown magazines were loaded with a different load. In the past, the Black Hills Ammunition 185 grain JHP has given good results in several 1911 handguns and was chosen as an accuracy load. Using a standing solid barricade firing position, the pistol was fired in three runs of five shots each. The Black Hills Ammunition 185 grain JHP averaged four inches for the three groups. 8 rounds from a single magazine of the Black Hills Ammunition 185 grain Barnes Tac-XP +P was fired into a single three and one half inch group. This all-copper bullet is accurate! Both 185 grain loads are good defense loads. They fired about two inches low at 25 yards. Filing the front sight blade would bring sight regulation to standard. After examining the targets, I fired a single magazine loaded with five rounds of the Black Hills 230 grain FMJ load. I did not concentrate on accuracy this time, but still registered a four and one half inch group. Sight regulation was spot on with the
230 grain load.

I have also tested a Commander type Desert Eagle 1911, the DE1911C. Magnum Research advertises a bushingless lockup 1911 with a four-inch barrel…I have not yet encountered this handgun, although I was able to obtain images from the manufacturer. The Desert Eagle 1911 tested most extensively is the DE1911C. C is for Commander. This pistol features the standard design barrel bushing. The barrel bushing is shorter than the Government Model, but works in the same manner. This handgun is set up in the same manner as the Government Model but is slightly lighter and ¾ inch shorter. There are no forward cocking serrations. This handgun is similar in handling and feel to the Government Model. The pistol is faster from the holster, however, due to its short slide and it’s also faster to align on target. It is not as fast to an accurate hit at ranges past 25 yards, but for personal defense the Commander length barrel is an excellent compromise. This handgun has been fired with more diverse loadings than the Government Model. The pistol came out of the box running and gave good results in rapid fire combat shooting and tactical drills. The handgun has been properly cleaned and lubricated and exhibited no malfunctions for a full 500 rounds of mixed ammunition.

While carrying the pistol for personal defense, I adopted two capable holsters. One, the D.M. Bullard Combat design in Rust Elephant, is an excellent strong side holster that offers a good balance of speed and security. The second is a D.M. Bullard IWB design. IWB holsters are easily the most efficient for concealed carry under even a light sport shirt. However, considerable practice is required to execute a rapid presentation from concealed carry. A cocked and locked Commander size .45 in an IWB holster offers good concealment and a high level of protection. I recommend the D.M. Bullard company for first class concealed carry gear.

While the differences in handling between the two pistols were noticeable, they were also similar. The Government Model size is a good service pistol while the Commander is a good concealed carry piece. However, when firing off of the barricade rest, the DE1911C was practically as accurate as the Government Model despite the shorter sight radius. In fact the pistol demonstrated a five shot group of 3.4 inches with the Black Hills 185 grain Barnes Tac-XP +P. Both pistols demonstrated good reliability, however, the Commander pistol failed to extract several times after several weeks of testing at around the 650 round mark. The extractor was removed and the hook appeared to be less than ideal in sharpness. The hook was filed and the pistol reassembled and function resumed. The best course would have been to replace the extractor, but I took this expedient to resume testing. This isn’t uncommon with the 1911, but neither was it welcome.

In the end, the Desert Eagle pistols seem to combine good function and performance. I would pay close attention to the extractor and small parts and give them a close examination. The pistol seems to be well made from good material.

by Chris A. Choat

IWI Now Debuting UZI Pro Pistol and UZI Pro Pistol SB

The Uzi Pro Pistol and Uzi Pro Pistol SB are the latest evolution of that storied design, now featuring the most advanced firearms technologies. Based on the famous Uzi SMG, the Uzi Pro is purpose-built with only one goal: uncompromising performance and reliability on a robust design. This 9mm Luger Parabellum version for the American public sports an advanced polymer pistol grip that reduces weight and incorporates an integrated magazine release button for fast and easy magazine changes. The cocking handle is located on the receiver side allowing for a full-length Picatinny rail on the top receiver cover. A short Picatinny rail is also incorporated into the polymer body, mounted below the barrel, perfect for additional accessory placement. Two versions of the Uzi Pro Pistol will be available in the U.S. The first is the basic pistol but perhaps the most exciting news is that the Uzi Pro Pistol will also be offered with a side-folding stabilizing brace, the Uzi Pro SB. The stabilizing brace will be produced exclusively for IWI US by SB Tactical, LLC, designers and manufacturers of the original SB15 and SB47 Pistol Stabilizing Braces that have reinvigorated the market for large frame pistols in the U.S. Originally designed as a means for persons with limited mobility to operate and fire the AR-15 pistol, it soon became clear to shooters across the USA that by adding a stabilizing brace to their large frame pistols, they could achieve greater accuracy while enjoying an enhanced shooting experience through improved firearm stabilization and control.

The custom adaptation of the stabilizing brace to the Uzi Pro SB takes the application of large frame pistol control and stabilization to a new level. With the IWI brace’s unique side-folding feature, the Uzi Pro SB can be fired with or without the brace extended depending on the shooter’s need. With the brace in the folded position, storage space required in your safe or range bag is minimized. The new Uzi Pro and Uzi Pro SB feature three safety mechanisms: a conventional manual thumb safety, a firing pin block and a proven grip safety that must be fully depressed before the gun can be cocked and fired. Simple maintenance on the Uzi Pro requires no special tools for quick and easy field stripping. Each Uzi Pro Pistol comes with one 20-round and one 25-round magazine. Find out more at www.iwi.us.

Bushnell Announces Lynx Night VIsion Binocular

Bushnell, an industry leader in high performance sports optics for 65 years, has just introduced the new Lynx 2.5x 40mm night vision binocular. The Gen I night vision unit features 2.5 times magnification, a viewing range of 750 feet combined with a wide field of view and an extended battery life. With its compact ergonomic design, the night vision binocular measures just seven inches in length and weighs only 17 ounces. Depending on ambient light conditions, the built-in infrared (IR) spotlight can be turned on or off to improve the viewing experience. Powered with two AAA batteries, the night vision binocular can run up to 20 hours with the IR illuminated, or up to 70 hours with the IR off. The ability to manage the IR setting allows users to control the viewing experience while improving battery life. Built with a durable rubber-armored housing, the night vision binocular is easy to carry and field-ready. The Bushnell Lynx night vision binocular is available for a retail price of $599.99. You can contact them at www.bushnell.com.

Auto Ordnance Introduces Budget-Priced 1911BKO

USA based Kahr Firearms Group is proud to announce the introduction of the Auto Ordnance 1911BKO. The 1911BKO is only the second 1911 pistol to be introduced over the past year, following in the footsteps of the successful 1911TC model in stainless steel just last year. The Auto Ordnance 1911BKO frame incorporates GI specs and features a matte black finish frame, barrel and slide. The carbon steel slide, sear and disconnector are machined from solid bar stock and heat treated properly to assure durability and long life over many thousands of rounds. The low-profile sights feature a blade front sight and a rear drift adjustable for windage. The grip is brown checkered plastic. This .45 ACP has a 5 inch barrel, length is 8.5 inches overall and weighs just 39 oz. The 1911BKO is 100% made in the USA and ships with one 7-round magazine. The BKO has a thumb safety, grip safety and firing pin block and carries a retail price of just $517. For more information on the complete line of Auto Ordnance products, please visit www.auto-ordnance.com.

Lancer Introduces Adaptive Magwell and SIG 716 Handguard

Lancer Systems LP, a leading advanced weapons and components manufacturer, has just announced the availability of two new products: the Adaptive Magwell and SIG Sauer 716 Replacement Handguard. Both are engineered using advanced, high-performance technologies to reduce weight and maximize reliability, exceeding military standards. The Lancer Adaptive Magwell is machined from 6061 T6 aluminum and is designed to fit mil-spec 5.56 AR style rifles. The component increases the diameter of the magwell and the speed with which the rifle can be reloaded. It is installed by opening the winter trigger guard and attaching the lower half to the trigger, then engaging the lower component to the trigger guard attachment on the rifle. The upper component is then slid on from the front and attached with two Allen screws. Retail price is $99.99. The Lancer replacement handguard for the SIG 716 features a free float design with aluminum Picatinny sight rail at 12 o’clock. It also has an octagon carbon fiber tube with cut-outs to expose the gas block adjusting knob. Cooling slots in the tube accept rails and slots at 6 o’clock and accept a rail for mounting a bi-pod. Available with top rails in carbine length, 7.4 inches, and extended length, 13.1 inches. Prices start at $274.99. Contact them at
www.lancer-systems.com.

TargetVision Introduces Portable Remote Target Changer

The new Portable Remote Target Changer has just been introduced by TargetVision. The Portable Remote Target Changer is an aluminum, battery powered, wireless target changing system with AR500 armor plating. With the push of a button, a user can roll down a fresh, new target from up to 600 yards away. The unit can easily be set up by one person. The system minimizes a shooters number of trips down range and is the perfect complement to a wireless spotting scope to improve their overall shooting experience. The unit operates on 900MHz radio frequency and weighs 97 pounds. It is powered by rechargeable lithium ion batteries and has an assembled height of 3 feet 6 inches. The target size is 24 by 24 inches. It comes with a 74 count roll of targets, a 12 volt DC charger and a remote controller. The target changer can also be ordered with its own fitted Pelican case. For more information go to www.targetvisioncam.com.

Magnum Research Announces First All Stainless Desert Eagle

Magnum Research has taken their most iconic handgun, the Desert Eagle, and given it an exciting new look. For the first time ever, the Desert Eagle .50 AE can now be purchased with an all stainless steel construction in the frame, slide, barrel, rail on the frame and an integral muzzle brake. The stainless steel models are 100% made in the USA and currently in production ready to ship to wholesalers and dealers. The Desert Eagle has always been considered a bit of a beast, but now, with the rugged stainless steel frame, slide and barrel, black appointments, and the new Picatinny bottom rail for accessories, it has a very distinctive new look. This high quality stainless steel model has an overpowering appearance at the gun counter and at the range, and it will be much easier to repair minor scratches than some of their other custom finish models. Also new from Magnum Research for 2015, the Desert Eagle all stainless steel model is offered in either a standard 6 inch barrel or with an integral muzzle brake. The integral muzzle brake is also offered on the DE50, DE44, and the DE357 6-inch barrel models in black. The integral muzzle brake will replace the add-on brake that Magnum Research has offered for several years. The integral muzzle brake offers significant recoil reduction, less muzzle flip and a new streamlined look. In addition, since the overall length remains the same as the standard 6 inch barrel model, the same holsters will fit the integral brake model. The integral muzzle brake model also means it can be offered at a lower price than the add-on muzzle brake. For more information and ordering instructions contact them at www.magnumresearch.com.