It is nice to receive a reality check every so often. What am I talking about? It is often assumed that only the most current weapons offer any real utility albeit sporting, tactical, hunting. I am going to refute this line of thought by highlighting a rifle conceived in the late 1800’s. It is every bit as viable today as the latest polymer/alloy creation. A weapon should be judged by the following criteria: handling, lethality, and firepower; not just by when it was created or how much it costs.

The rifle/cartridge combination I am going to utilize to make my point is the classic Marlin 1894 lever action chambered in 44 Magnum. The lever action is revered on this side of the Atlantic. It symbolizes so much in the American psyche. The lever actions’ use in Hollywood Westerns in the hands of John Wayne, Chuck Connors, and Steve McQueen made it an icon in the minds of the American gun culture. The true levers that “Won the West” were the earlier Models 1866 and 1873; nonetheless, any lever action is an indelible icon of Western mythology through its use in hundreds of motion pictures and television shows. The superb feel generated with the Marlin 1894’s minimal width and light weight (6.4 pounds) combined with near perfect balance and 10+1 capacity in a mildly recoiling package cannot be denied.

Marlin’s corporate history stretches back to the 1870s. Marlin produced arms for the U.S. military during WWI and WWII. More recent history involved becoming part of Remington in 2007. The Remington break up found Marlin being quickly snapped up by Ruger. Marlin rifles are now being made by Ruger at their Mayodan, NC facility. Whereas Winchester is most associated with lever actions, Marlin has been at it since 1881. Significantly, Marlin moved away from top ejection, finding the side ejection method with a solid top frame offered significant advantages in terms of strength, reliability, and, eventually, the ability to effectively mount optics as market advances made this the preferred sighting method.

Still Kicking

The Marlin 1894 Classic combined with 44 Magnum chambering makes for a very appealing, distinctive combination. No need to think that only a high-capacity detachable magazine rifle is the only solution for personal defense, hunting, plinking or a survival situation. It’s hard to fathom that anyone using the 44 Magnum Marlin 1894 is under-gunned or at a marked disadvantage when hunting deer-size game, taking a defensive posture, smacking random targets of opportunity, or pressed into a subsistence situation.

The 1894 will appeal to rifle lovers for its efficiency. There is an obvious love affair between the American gun consumer and the lever action. The lever action is an American icon. Users already familiar with the lever action and will appreciate the performance offered with the 1894 chambered in 44 Magnum. The 1894 lever action is smooth in operation emerging out of the box. A credit to Marlin/Ruger manufacturing techniques; positive functioning was never an issue. Marlin has fitted the handy Model 1894 with a 20.25-inch cold hammer forged barrel and measures 37.75 inches in total length. The 1894 is equipped with sturdy adjustable iron sights—classic “buckhorn” rear ladder style combined with extended front bead—and soft rubber buttpad to soak up recoil. The overall appearance of the 1894 is pleasing thanks to a blending of blued steel with a satin finish and checkered American black walnut buttstock and forend.

The Marlin 1894’s drilled/tapped solid top receiver was quickly taken advantage of by mounting a picatinny scope rail. It was decided to forego a low powered variable optic for handling reasons. After all we live in the age of the red dot. A quality red dot is an immediate performance enhancement over iron sights, especially with a longarm. A compact Meopta MeoSight IV was mounted. A closed emitter tube-style red-dot was considered, but discarded in an effort to minimize the size of the optic as much as possible. Plus, it would be a great test for the Meopta MeoSight IV mounted on a rifle and bouncing around in a UTV, four-wheeler or hiking through rough terrain. The Marlin 1894 benefitted from this optic selection by maintaining its great feel and ergonomics.

The MeoSight IV offers a 3 MOA dot within a 1.2-ounce package with 30,000-hour battery life. The 3 MOA dot certainly simplifies placing rounds on target. MeoSight IV has 120 MOA range of elevation and 120 MOA of windage adjustment. The illumination feature has a manual or automatic mode, and the brightness of the red dot is easily adjustable to five different intensity levels. The sight is powered by a CR1632 3V battery. The sight’s auto-off function preserves battery life by automatically turning the illumination off after four hours of continuous operation if the function button has not been touched. To understand how compact the MeoSight IV is, it mounts on handguns using a Docter adapter plate and comes with a Picatinny rail mount in the box for mounting as shown in our review.

Now A Word from Our Cartridge—The 44 Magnum

Formally introduced in 1956, the 44 Magnum was the result of years of handloading pushing the 44 Special to the max. The 44 Special, as well as other large caliber handgun rounds such as the 45 Colt, were being loaded with heavier bullets and pushed at higher than normal velocities by handloaders for better hunting performance than anything offered by ammunition manufacturers. Elmer Keith, a prominent writer and outdoorsman of the early 20th Century, is integrally linked with the development and introduction of the 44 Magnum. Keith advocated for a “44 Special Magnum” with a 250-grain hard cast bullet at 1200 feet per second. Ammunition companies were afraid of “heavy loaded” 44 Specials blowing older model revolvers apart. The answer was similar to the 38 Special/357 Magnum solution to the same conundrum. Keith asked for a new cartridge 1/10 of an inch longer than the 44 Special to preclude its being used in any old revolvers or any new models chambered in 44 Special versus the higher powered 44 Magnum.

For me, it was a plus that Marlin chose to go with the 44 Magnum as the model 1894’s first chambering. Though it is no longer the king in terms of pure power, the 44 Magnum is the established benchmark for pistol caliber hunting cartridges. Sure the 454 Casull, 500S&W and others surpass it terms of delivered payload, but all pistol calibers pay homage to the 44 Magnum by comparing themselves to it. Manufactures know that hunters and shooters are totally familiar with what the 44 Magnum brings to the table in terms of power. What better way to get across their own cartridges capabilities than by making comparing statements like “xx percent” more power than the 44 Magnum. Over the years, my favorite 44 Magnum loads have evolved into the Black Hills 300-grain JHP and Hornady LEVERevolution 225-grain FTX offerings.

The Black Hills 300-grain JHP never fails to remind of 44 Magnum power on both ends—butt and muzzle. Steel targets are totally gobsmacked when compared to other pistol caliber round effects. The Hornady LEVERevolution applies technology advancements to the 44 Magnum in terms of bullets and propellant. Spitzer-like Hornady FTX bullets offer better ballistics without fear of igniting rounds in the under-barrel tube magazine. New propellant powder composition increases velocity without surpassing accepting pressure standards, thus taking full advantage of the FTX bullet in flight design improvement all the while providing deep, driving, consistent expansion for terminal performance. The Hornady 225-grain FTX rounds are shoved at over 1700 fps from the 20-inch Marlin 1894 barrel.

Hammer Time

The Marlin 1894 Classic was tested initially from the bench for accuracy then evaluation progressed to barricades, fallen trees, and other obstacles to get a better appreciation of its handling and performance. The Marlin’s trigger pull measured 6 pounds and exhibited minimal creep before releasing. I was pleased by the accuracy offered by the Marlin 1894 44 Magnum. The Black Hills Ammunition, Hornady, and Winchester 44 Magnum loads kept most groups under 1.5 inches at 50 yards. This included bullet weights spanning from 200 up to 300 grains. It is valid to state the 1894 44 Magnum augments personal defense or sporting armaments beyond what handguns chambered in 44 Magnum could provide. This comes from its ability to maximize accuracy and terminal performance out of 44 Magnum loads. If a properly constructed bullet from a 44 Magnum souped up thanks to longer rifle barrel placed in the correct location does not do the job, then no cartridge will likely be successful either.

PERFORMANCE

Range evaluation consisted of a regimen made up of engaging multiple steel and paper targets, firing while moving and engaging targets from behind cover. My testing was conducted at Echo Valley Training Center. The Marlin 1894 proved way too accommodating digesting 44 Magnum ammunition rapidly. The layout and availability of various steel target and simulated barricades at Echo Valley Training Center is convenient allowing for full spectrum firearm evaluations. The Marlin 1894/Meopta combo proved more than capable of running steel plate rack targets 50 yards away. In fact, steel targets out to 200 yards away were not safe. The Meopta MeoSight IV allows accurate shooting while maintaining quick and easy target acquisition at close distances. Anecdotally, clay pigeons were routinely shattered at 75 yards.

Chronograph tests showed sizable velocity increase (300-400 fps depending on bullet weight/load) from the Marlin’s longer 20-inch rifle barrel compared to a typical revolver. The Marlin 1894 generated over 1,700 fps across the Caldwell Precision chronograph with 200-grain bullets and 1,400+ with 300-grain loads. Based on this, the 44 Magnum 1894 can be zeroed at 100 yards, creating a trajectory arc of approximately 1.5-inches high at 50 yards and 7-inches low at 150 yards. The 44 Magnum chambering should not dissuade users from the Marlin 1894 because of concerns of subpar performance compared to a “rifle” chambered cartridge and will not if given a rational chance.

It was decided to use Echo Valley Training Center’s “jungle walk” range for further evaluation by placing targets at random locations along meandering river bottom location. Each shooter would move along the “jungle walk” and engage targets as discovered as various ranges using field expedient firing positions. Overall, this proved realistic us of the of the Marlin, and, frankly, rather fun. The distinct sound of chunky 44 Magnum bullets smacking steel is gratifying. While by no means rivaling a semi-automatic for firepower, the M1894’s 10-round tube magazine was handy to recharge as needed based on firing rate. No malfunctions were experienced with empty brass ejected away matching the vigor with which the lever was worked. The Marlin lever action features a crossbolt safety selector that’s located on the rear of the receiver for extra peace of mind. The safety makes no audible noise when operating it. Recoil was not a factor with over 350 rounds fired during multiple trips to Echo Valley Training Center.

Never Underestimate Nostalgia

It is often assumed that only the most current weapons offer any real use or sporting utility. This is unfortunate in that it encourages people to think that weaponry is a substitute for mindset, training, and proficiency. The original Marlin 1894 at the end of the 19^th Century was the AR/AK equivalent of its day with its pistol caliber chambering and relative high capacity; would it be the optimum choice today­–of course not. However, this does not totally discount it capabilities or lethality. Whatever roles it is considered for, whether it is for hunting, personal defense, or sport, the Marlin 1894 Classic fits the bill.

SPECIFICATIONS

Red, white, and polished blue steel. The 4th of July is a celebration of freedom, and America’s freedom was forged through courage and gunpowder. We’re looking back at the top 25 American guns of all time, and the competition is fierce. Most of the featured firearms are offered in Rock Island Auction Company’s upcoming August Premier Auction, along with a few examples from past events.

Iconic American arms from every era will be featured in Rock Island Auction Company’s August Premier.

The Kentucky Rifle

One of the first truly iconic arms of America was pioneered by German and Swiss gunsmiths who immigrated to the Colonies in the 18th century. Popularly known as the Kentucky Rifle or Pennsylvania Rifle, the American Long Rifle allowed accurate shooting up to 200 yards or more, a decisive advantage to backwoodsmen while hunting in the western wilderness or sniping Red Coats during the Revolutionary War and War of 1812.

A John Armstrong Maryland Golden Age flintlock American Long Rifle, an extraordinary example of one of America’s best guns of all time. Available this August.

Colt Model 1851 Navy

A personal favorite of Samuel Colt, the Model 1851 Navy was one of the most prevalent sidearms on both sides of the American Civil War, even serving as the basis for numerous Confederate produced brass-frame revolver styles like the Griswold & Gunnison Revolver and the Leech & Rigdon revolvers. The sturdy sixgun’s impressive production numbers, widespread use on the American frontier, and status as the favored revolver for Western legends like Wild Bill Hickok, Buffalo Bill Cody, and countless early gunslingers elevate the 1851 Navy to one of best American guns of all time.

An exemplary cased, early factory engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy revolver with extremely scarce gold plated grip straps. The Navy set the standard for countless black powder revolvers, earning a clear spot on any list of iconic arms of America. Available this August.

The Sharps Rifle and Carbine

The various models of Sharps rifles and carbines earned a reputation as iconic arms of America in the Civil War, the Old West, and in popular culture thanks to films like ‘Quigley Down Under’ and ‘True Grit.’  Produced from the Antebellum Era through the late-19th century and noted for their exceptional accuracy and reliability, the Sharps filled a key role during the Civil War when the Union purchased approximately 80,000 Sharps carbines and almost 10,000 rifles. Specially ordered Sharps rifles were famously fielded by the 1st and 2nd U.S. Sharpshooter Regiments (the Berdan’s Sharpshooters) to great effect.

A historic Sharps Model Model 1853 “John Brown Sharps/Beecher’s Bible” slant breech percussion carbine documented as shipped to abolitionist General Samuel C. Pomeroy in Kansas during the Bleeding Kansas period. For its role in revolutionizing sniping tactics, the Sharps rifle platform wins a nod as one of America’s best guns of all time. Available this August.

The Springfield Model 1861 Rifle-Musket

The Springfield Model 1861 rifle-musket became one of the most prolific Northern rifles issued during the Civil War, taking the field in quantity from 1862 onward, from Shiloh to Appomattox. With over 1 million being produced during the conflict by Springfield Armory and two dozen other firearm producers, the dependable .58 caliber rifle improved precision over infantry traditional musket. This percussion powerhouse finds a worthy spot on our list of America’s best guns of all time thanks to its role in winning the Civil War, protecting workers on the Transcontinental Railroad, and serving as the material platform for a line of Springfield breechloading rifles that would culminate with the 1873 Trapdoor.

An outstanding Civil War U.S. Springfield Model 1863 Type II/1864 percussion rifle-musket, the final iteration of one of the most iconic arms of America. Available this August.

Remington Rolling Block

Developed from the Remington “Split Breech” carbine, a Civil War gun designed to fire the same cartridges as the Spencer repeater, the Remington Rolling Block family became not just one of the most iconic arms of America but a popular longarm around the world. As the most widely used single shot military breechloader of the 19th century, the Remington Rolling Block’s service record is expansive. The gun was produced in a variety of calibers, both rimfire and centerfire, and its action was sturdy enough to easily accommodate the increased pressure of new smokeless powders hitting the market in the late 1890s.

An impressive example of one of the best frontier guns of all time, this Remington No. 1 Rolling Block long-range target rifle sold for $8,050 in RIAC’s May 2021 Premier Auction.

The Colt Single Action Army

The Colt Single Action Army revolver is a no-brainer inclusion for any best guns of all time list. Possibly the most famous firearm ever made, “Judge Colt and His Jury of Six” was first adopted by the U.S. Army in July 1873 and went on to serve as the choice sidearm for countless lawmen, cowboys, homesteaders, and desperados who came to define the American frontier. For 150 years, the Colt SAA has prominently appeared in dime novels, radio shows, film, and television, and today continues to represent the enduring spirit of the American West.

An Ainsworth inspected Lot Five U.S. Cavalry Colt Single Action Army revolver with a Kopec Gold Seal letter, a stunning early example of one of the most iconic arms of America. Available this August.

The Winchester 1873

A well-armed frontiersman carried a Colt on his hip and a Winchester over his shoulder. As the successor to the Henry rifle and the 1866 Yellowboy, the Model 1873 put the name Winchester on the map and went on to conquer the open range. Dubbed “the Gun that Won the West”, the Winchester ’73 became a symbol of freedom and self-determination on the American frontier. From movie sets to modern-day cowboy action shooting competitions, these iconic arms of America have stood the test of time.

An exceptional example of one of the best guns of all time, a special order deluxe Winchester Model 1873 rifle. Available this August.

Winchester Model 94

The Winchester Model 1894 hit the scene too late to see the height of the American Wild West, but the rifle certainly kept Winchester’s frontier legacy alive. The Winchester 94’s balance and slim profile made it a favorite walking gun for hunters, ranchers, and law enforcement who appreciated the power and reliability of Winchester’s .30-30 WCF smokeless cartridge. The classic lever gun’s accuracy, simplicity, and rugged resilience earned it a place in millions of gun racks across America. In terms of tried-and-tested hunting arms, the Winchester Model 94 is hands down one of the best guns of all time.

A pre-64 Winchester Model 94 carbine with its original box, an outstanding example of one of the most iconic arms of America. Available this August.

Smith & Wesson Military and Police and Model 10

What qualities should a model have to be considered one of the best guns of all time? Production numbers? Versatility? Fame? The Smith & Wesson .38 Military & Police series checks all those boxes and more, remaining in continuous production for over a century and becoming the overwhelming favorite sidearm of countless police forces and militaries around the world. Later renamed the Model 10, this iconic revolver became the most produced wheel gun platform of the 20th century and a mainstay of nearly every police department around the country well into the 1980s. Now that’s an American success story.

As iconic arms of America go, it doesn’t get much better than a classic Smith & Wesson. This factory engraved .38 Military & Police Model of 1905 Fourth Change revolver sold for $4,025 in December of 2020.

Marlin Model 39A

The first lever action chambered in .22 LR, this classic Marlin went through a number of name changes over the last 132 years. Releasing as the Marlin Model 1891, the gun was redubbed “Bicycle Rifle” in 1897, then again renamed to Model 39 in 1922 before finally embracing its most famous iteration in 1939 in the Marlin 1939A.  As the longest continuously produced rifle in the world and the lever action Annie Oakley made famous, the Marlin Model 39A and its predecessors are undeniably iconic arms of America.

A scarce Marlin 90th anniversary Model Golden 39A rifle sold for $4,313 in December of 2021. As .22 rifles go, one of the best guns of all time.

Winchester Model 1897 Shotgun

One of the best guns of all time in terms of military shotguns, the Winchester Model 1897 shotgun was popularized as a sporting arm before finding a role during the Philippine-American War. In WW1, the Model 1897 was officially adopted as the U.S. “Model of 1917 Trench Shotgun” and modified with a bayonet lug, a heat shield, and a shorter barrel for maneuverability in the trenches of Western Europe. The shotgun and its slam fire heroics proved effective enough to earn a diplomatic protest from the Germans, who claimed that America’s use of trench guns caused “unnecessary suffering.”

The Winchester Model 1897 slide action trench shotgun earned a larger-than-life reputation in WW1 and has become one of the most iconic arms of America. Available this August.

1903 Springfield Rifle

Not all iconic arms of America were born in the Land of Stars and Stripes. Based on the German Mauser bolt action, America took the design and made it their own with the Springfield Model 1903 rifle. Initially chambered in .30-03, the rifle suffered from poor trajectory and excessive barrel wear. However, by chambering a lighter, spitzer bullet and a cooler burning propellant, a legend was born in the .30-06 cartridge, and battlefield and deer stand would soon feel the wrath of the mighty Springfield Model 1903.

One of the best guns of all time by sheer production numbers, the U.S. Springfield Model 1903 rifle is still widely fielded by shooters and hunters today. This rare example is equipped with the innovative 1918 Mark I Pedersen Device.

The Colt 1911

As the longest-serving military sidearm in American history, the legendary Colt 1911 pistol is going to find itself in any best guns of all time discussion. The brainchild of John Moses Browning, this .45-caliber magazine-fed semi-automatic pistol set a new design standard that helped the United States become back to back World War champs and continues to be carried by numerous American officers to this day. The M1911 design has been widely emulated, with few major changes made to the pistol’s internals over the decades, a testament to the gun’s exemplary performance record.

A scarce 1937 production Colt U.S. Navy contract Model 1911/1911A1 transitional semi-pistol. The 1911 pistol is easily one of the most recognizable and iconic arms of America. Available this August.

Browning Auto-5

John Browning was said to consider the Auto-5 his greatest achievement, a bold statement from the prolific gun inventor and more than enough to earn the famous “Humpback” a solid ranking among the most iconic arms of America. Browning’s 1903 recoil-operated design was a versatile workhorse for all types of fowling and target shooting. This sturdy scattergun continues to be fielded by the modern sportsman today and holds the title of second-best autoloading shotty of all time.

As the first successful semi-automatic shotgun, the Auto-5 should be considered one of the best guns of all time. The fantastic example below is a double signed, engraved and gold inlaid Belgium Browning Gold Classic Auto-5 with its original box. Available this August.

The Thompson Submachine Gun

In terms of cultural impact and a notable service record in WW2, Hollywood’s favorite gangster weapon merits consideration as one of the best guns of all time. Designed by John Thompson, the fully automatic Tommy Gun was completed too late to fill its intended role as a WW1 trench sweeper. The inventor subsequently marketed the weapon to everyone from law enforcement to ranchers, but the deadly submachinegun found an unexpected niche with organized crime. On the eve of WW2, the Thompson submachine gun was adopted by the U.S. military and employed by the British as well, with over 1.5 million of the new military-issued M1928A1 and M1A1 produced. This earned the weapon international recognition through German and Japanese propaganda posters that portrayed the U.S. and her allies as Tommy-toting gangsters.

From mafia to military to Hollywood, the Thompson became one of the most iconic arms of America. This fantastic example is a police documented Colt Thompson Model 1921 that includes a case and extra magazines. Available this August.

The M2 Machine Gun

A good portion of John Browning’s inventions have become iconic arms of American history, including the famous M2 Heavy Machine Gun. Affectionately dubbed “Ma Deuce” and “The Mother of All Machine Guns” by the troops who continue to rely on its .50 caliber firepower, this air-cooled, belt-fed behemoth has stood the test of time like few other firearms. As a U.S. military mainstay since the 1930s, the M2 has touched the battlefield in every major American conflict from WW2 onward.

One of the best guns of all time, this M2 machine gun lived up to its iconic reputation and sold for a stunning $94,000 in RIAC’s May Premier.

Ithaca 37

Hailed by many hunters as one of the best guns of all time, the Ithaca 37 shotgun is a legendary platform inspired by the ideas of John Moses Browning and John Douglas Pedersen. This pump action icon quickly found a market after its 1937 release and never looked back, becoming the longest continuously-produced shotgun in American history and earning a reputation as a versatile autoloader that was well suited for field, police, and military duty alike.

One of the most iconic arms of America in terms of longevity and adaptability, this USSF marked Ithaca Model 37 Special Forces trench-style shotgun highlights the platforms role as a military weapon. Available this August.

The M1 Garand

In the list of iconic arms of America during WW2, the M1 Garand might be number one. Fielded by millions of American GIs, General George Patton once hailed the rifle as, “the greatest battle implement ever devised.” The .30-caliber M1 Garand served as the standard U.S. infantry rifle from 1936 to 1959 and it continued to see use as late as the Vietnam War. From Saving Private Ryan and Band of Brothers to the Call of Duty video game series, few weapons can symbolize America’s valor in WW2 better than John Garand’s iconic rifle.

An exceptional WW2 U.S. Winchester “WIN-13” M1 Garand. For its role as WW2s most successful semi-automatic infantry rifle, the M1 Garand can be hailed one of the best guns of all time. Available this August.

The M1 Carbine

Another red-blooded American gun that complimented the M1 Garand’s high-volume fire, the M1 Carbine offered an effective firearm sized somewhere between a rifle and a pistol that was ideal for units like paratroopers, drivers, weapon crews, intelligence officers, and communications personnel who required a lighter burden. One of the best guns of all time thanks to its spectacular service history, the M1 carbine helped lead the United States to victory in Europe and the Pacific theater then went on to become widely owned and fielded after the war thanks to an abundance of WW2 surplus.

Winchester Model 70

If you’re widely known as the superlative bolt action rifle, chances are you’re going to make America’s best guns of all time list. Enter the Winchester Model 70. Widely dubbed “the rifleman’s rifle,” the Model 70 has gone through numerous changes and iterations over its nearly nine decades of production and is chambered to take everything from white-tailed deer to African dangerous game. The gun served the United States Marines as their precision rifle during the Vietnam War, famously fielded by Gunnery Sergeant Carlos Hathcock, who used the mighty Model 70 during most of his 93 confirmed kills. Today, the Winchester Model 70 continues to find favor with shooters and collectors, the latter preferring the desirable “Pre-64” production model.

One of the most iconic arms of America, the Winchester Model 70 is instantly recognizable to nearly every sporting gun enthusiast. This rare documented U.S. property marked Winchester Model 70 “Van Orden Sniper” rifle includes an 8x Unertl U.S.M.C. sniper scope and case and a CMP Certificate of Authenticity. Available this August.

Smith & Wesson Model 29

Elmer Keith and Clint Eastwood helped elevate the .44 Magnum Smith & Wesson Model 29 into one of the iconic arms of America. Elmer Keith had long been advocating for a more powerful version of the .44 Special cartridge. In 1955, Remington Arms introduced the .44 Remington Magnum cartridge, while Smith & Wesson delivered a revolver to chamber the beast. The S&W Model 29 found niche success with handgun hunters, law enforcement, and revolver lovers before launching into the stratosphere thanks to 1971’s ‘Dirty Harry.’ While this powerhouse pistol has been since surpassed by monsters like the .500 S&W Magnum, for a time Dirty Harry’s revolver truly was the most powerful handgun in the world.  

A Smith & Wesson Performance Center Model 29-5 revolver from the Hank Williams Jr. Collection sold for $10,350 at RIAC in September 2021. For it’s power, aesthetic, and cultural appeal, the Model 29 family earns a nod as one of America’s best guns of all time.

Remington Model 870

With over 12 million in circulation and counting, the Remington Model 870 should be considered a candidate for any top 25 best guns of all time list. A shotgun known for its rugged reliability, the Model 870 has lent itself perfectly to every need over the last seven decades. Game wardens, duck hunters, police officers, and Vietnam Navy Seals have all shouldered the Model 870, and the gun is featured in nearly every modern film and TV show involving law enforcement, zombies, or action of any sort. One would be pressed not to find an example of this robust shotty in every town across the United States, and it continues to sell as the recently introduced Remington 870 Fieldmaster.

This example of a Remington Wingmaster 870 realized an astounding $38,188 in RIAC’s December 2021 Premier Auction, an impressive example of one of the most iconic arms of America.

The M60 Machine Gun

First issued in 1959, the M60 machine gun was an attempt to combine the firepower of the M1919 Browning with the relative mobility of the BAR. What resulted was one of the most iconic arms of America, a 23-pound belt-fed beast that could eat a ton of  7.62mm ammo and chew through anything down range. The M60 often found itself in the mud and muck during combat, and its relatively slow cyclic rate made this heavy hitter sound akin to a grunting boar. The Pig humped, sailed, and soared through Vietnam, Operation Just Cause, and the Persian Gulf War and continues to see service in specialized roles today.

Inspired by the German FG42 and MG42, the M60 became one of America’s best guns of all time. Available this August.

Marlin Model 60

For years, Marlin billed the Model 60 as “the most popular 22 in the world.” Whether that’s enough to also call this prolific semi-auto one of the best guns of all time is up for debate, but it certainly ranks as an American essential. Introduced in 1960, Marlin’s semi-auto .22 LR tack driver remained in production for six decades and was carried by generations of Americans who fell in love with its resiliency and ease of use. For target shooting, plinking, and small game hunting, the Marlin Model 60 is a true American classic.

Caleb Savant from Brownells shows off the Marlin Model 60, one of the most iconic arms of America.

The M16

Adapted from the famous ArmaLite AR-15 platform, the M16 offered an all-in-one battle rifle that could excel at both distance combat and close-quarter fighting. Though the refinement of the M16 was not without its hurdles, the rifle’s updates and successors soon stepped up to the challenges of modern warfare and became the longest-serving infantry long arm in U.S. military history, a contemporary defender of Lady Liberty, and one of the indisputably iconic arms of America.

Who doesn’t need a Colt M16A1 selective fire rifle in the 9 million serial range? Available this August.

Iconic Arms of America

While our top 25 list includes some undeniable American icons, there are countless gun models that could be considered legends in their field. For their historic influence, market success, or cultural impact, a few honorable mentions include the Colt Walker, the Hawken rifle, the Derringer, the Gatling Gun, the Winchester Model 1895, the Colt Detective Special, and the Winchester Model 21 shotgun, and examples of all these gun collecting cornerstones can be found at Rock Island Auction Company.

Perhaps the most influential non-firearm weapon in American history, the Bowie Knife carries a fascinating story in its own right. This rare Tillotson Sheffield patriotic “Gold Hunters Knife” Bowie knife is available this available this August.

One of the signs of getting older is being more susceptible to sentimentality. Many years ago, I traded away an Interarms Whitworth Yugoslavian Mauser bolt action chambered in .375 Holland & Holland Magnum. Recently, this transgression began to surface in my conscience more and more. Indulge me in my explanation for wanting to acquire another bolt action .375 H&H—not the easiest thing to do, currently. Not many manufacturers are currently offering models chambered in .375 H&H.

Feed Preferences

Some of my fondest memories growing up involve discussions about hunting and firearms with my grandfather. Pap Minico was a fount of knowledge. I always looked forward to visiting. Multiple volumes of Gun Digest and Shooter’s Bible yearly annuals were on hand for reference. Without fail, we would disappear into his gunroom or basement where the reloading equipment was located. One of his favorite topics involved bolt action rifles and the difference between controlled round feeding (CRF) versus push feed (PF). For Pap, Mauser had shown the way with its large claw extractor which grabbed onto the round from the magazine and held onto to it until the empty brass was flicked away so another round could be ushered into the chamber. He repeated many times over, for him, there was no option other than CRF, especially if a rifle was destined for use with any sort of dangerous game.

Pap Minico practiced what he preached. He was fond of sporterized Mausers. His favorite U.S. bolt action rifle was the pre-64 Winchester Model 70 – more on this shortly. I did not have to merely take his word for his bolt action beliefs either. He created demonstrations with controlled round feed versus push feed bolt designs using dummy rounds. The proper way of vigorously working a bolt action was also instilled upon me here. “Don’t baby it!” he would exhort. He wanted the Model 70’s blade ejector to send the brass across the room. He advised the large claw extractor found on the CRF bolt action also a real plus for getting a sticky case out of a chamber albeit caused by fouling, dirt, or high pressure. The small extractors found on push feed bolt actions would either slip off or rip through a stuck case.

Push feed bolt actions are more susceptible to the dreaded short- or double-stroke causing multiple rounds being released from the magazine well jamming up the action. Imagine this happening during a grizzly or Cape Buffalo charge. A push feed bolt’s extractor slips over the case rim only when nearly totally closed into the breach with the extractor snapping over the rim. With CRF, the extractor controls the cartridge before it leaves the magazine’s rails. Thus, if even if a bolt is worked improperly the cartridge will still be sent free of the action.

.375 Holland & Holland Magnum

Discussions with Pap were not confined to rifles. Cartridges were also debated. One of Pap’s favorite rounds was the .375H&H. Pap had several .375H&H rifles over the years and would show up to deer camp with one every so often. His ability to handload proved beneficial here. 300-grain solid bullets meant for African dangerous game would be replaced by custom loads featuring Nosler 260-grain Partition projectiles being shoved at a velocity offering flatter than expected ballistic path from a big bore dangerous game cartridge.

Pap would preach how the Brits got the .375 H&H right using their hunting experience in Africa and India during the heyday of the British Empire. The .375 H&H, introduced in 1912, served as base cartridge for belted magnum cartridges that followed for the next hundred years. Here was a cartridge with a gentle sloping shoulder design tailor-made for bolt action rifle that were increasing in popularity as sporting arms. The .375 H&H geometry is ideal for such a lengthy cartridge being hustled into a chamber via a bolt action shove. This same design dealt well with transition to smokeless powder, not to mention pressure spikes of any rounds left out in the scorching tropical sun. The belt located near the base was used to headspace in a rifle chamber since the shoulder was at so shallow of an angle. Even though most of the subsequent cartridges spawned from the .375 H&H had suitable shoulders for headspacing (making the distinct .375 H&H belt superfluous), no self-respecting cartridge could be without a magnum belt for marketing reasons. Such was the .375 H&H mystique.

As stated earlier, Pap was fond of the Winchester Model 70. My father was unabashedly a Model 70 man, as well. Based on this, a Model 70 .375 H&H was the easy choice. Finding one became another matter. Winchester Repeating Arms does list .375 H&H as a chamber offering for the Model 70 Alaskan and Safari Express variants; however, production was several months away if at all. I resorted to one of the online website brokers and was thrilled when I found a new-in-box Winchester Model 70 Alaskan.

The Rifleman’s Rifle

Winchester Repeating Firearms Company went through multiple trying periods in its history. The closing of the New Haven, CT plant in 2006 was the latest. Thankfully, FN Herstal (owner of Winchester Repeating Arms and Browning Arms) decided to continue Model 70 production in its FNH USA Columbia, SC plant in 2008. Winchester Repeating Firearms has produced four different rifles under the Model 70 designation with all four still in circulation. In a nutshell, the first Model 70 is the legendary pre-64 Model 70 – the “rifleman’s rifle” that cemented Winchester’s reputation with hunters with controlled round feeding upon its introduction in 1936. The post-64 Model 70 version nearly destroyed Winchester’s credibility due to the abandonment of controlled round feeding and other modifications to lower manufacturing costs beginning in 1964.

Bringing Back A Classic

Fortunately, other limbs on the Model 70 family tree arrived in the early 1990’s with control round feeding reinstituted. The “Classic” label chosen to designate the return to controlled round feed version of the Model 70. Only the Model 70 Classic variant is currently in production. A hybrid control round push feed variant incorporating a large, yet short, extractor on a push feed style bolt face was also toyed with by Winchester for a limited time in the early 1990s.

The .375 H&H Model 70 Alaskan featured in this article falls under the Classic-era model designation. The Classic returned pre-‘64 features with minor differences in stock and action design. The commentaries I have read seem to agree that the Classic Model 70 encompasses features that make it superior to the original pre-‘64 Model 70 – except for nostalgic reasons, that is. The Classic Model 70 is more scope friendly, coming already drilled and tapped. Along this line of thought, the Model 70 Alaskan features a subdued a Monte Carlo style stock. I say subdued as not as prominent as some other Monte Carlo profiles on the market. The Alaskan is one of the few Model 70’s that uses a Monte Carlo style stock. The Monte Carlo raises the stock comb, thus catering more towards using a mounted optic. Monte Carlo advocates point out the design also aids in handling recoil by preventing a slap of the face that’s more typical of the jaw welds found on a lot of rifles when scopes are used with stocks not properly set up to do so.

Another Model 70 Classic improvement is found with the M.O.A. Trigger System. Winchester literature points out the trigger mechanism was completely redesigned to exhibit zero take up, zero creep, and zero overtravel. The trigger’s pull weight ranges from 3 to 5 pounds and is factory-set at 3 3/4 pounds. Because of the enhanced ergonomics, wide trigger shoe and 2:1 mechanical advantage created, it feels like half that weight. With all this said, the return of controlled round feeding is what brought the Model 70 Classic back into the fold for hunters, especially hunters who pursue game that can do damage to its pursuer.

The Model 70 Alaskan harkens back to another age with satin finished black walnut Monte Carlo stock with cut checking combined with polished blue metal. Do not confuse refined aesthetics with lack of purpose. The forged steel receiver with jeweled bolt features dual recoil lugs and two steel reinforcing crossbolts harnessing the .375 H&H thump. Winchester’s time-tested three-position safety gives tactile and visual representation of rifle’s status. The 25-inch sporter profile barrel is free floated. The 25-inch length came as a surprise. However, once the 8.5-pound Alaskan was shouldered, any concern dissipated. It is so balanced.

Optics

Talley Manufacturing optic rings and bases secures a Trijicon AccuPoint 1-4x optic to the Model 70 Alaskan. Trijicon’s combination of tritium and fiber optic lit reticle is hard to beat for a big bore rifle that does most of its work up close and personal. With the .375 H&H, which can stretch its legs for some distance work, the ability to access 4x magnification is handy. The Winchester Model 70 Alaskan .375 H&H can be a bear rifle one hunt and then an elk rifle the next. In Africa safari terms, Cape Buffalo in the morning with plains game in the afternoon. The .375 H&H is a true all-around game getting cartridge.

Ammunition Considerations

From its inception, Holland & Holland recognized .375 H&H versatility and supported it by offering three different bullet weights for various animal sizes/types – 235-grain at 2800 fps, 270-grain at 2650 fps, 300-grain at 2500 fps. Modern manufactures such as Federal, Hornady, as well as specialty ammunition producers like Buffalo Bore offer a dizzying array of bullet weights and types. Anecdotally, the 270-grain .375 H&H load shoots as flat as a 180-grain 30-06 arriving with nearly twice the muzzle energy. Sight in .375 H&H a few inches high at a hundred yards and you will be good to go out to 250-plus yards with round dipping only 2-3 inches low. That is mighty impressive for a medium bore dangerous game rifle. The .375 H&H reputation as a do it all cartridge stems from this.

Accessories

I have chased deer, elk, black bear, and hogs with the Model 70 Alaskan .375 H&H rifle using both handloads as well as factory ammunition. Two ancillary support items were used in the form of Eberlestock H2 Gunrunner with a BOG Great Divide tripod lashed to it. It’s impressive how stable you could make a sitting or standing position using a BOG tripod. Hunting styles varied between still hunt, spot & stalk, tree stand, ground blind, and safari style. The Model 70 Alaskan’s free floated barrel with recessed target crown generates 1-inch to 1.25-inch accuracy. This is not a misprint.

The Eberlestock Gunrunner is a minimalist pack meant to support day outings. It retains Eberlestock’s patented scabbard design to hold your rifle while keeping it handy for quick access. The H2’s top compartment segregates binoculars, range finder, spare ammunition and/or knife from 1000 cubic inch main compartment where food, clothes, and other goods are stored. Weight of the H2 is 3.5 pounds. Vertical and horizontal compression straps serve to tighten up your load and act as lashing points for extra clothes, tripod, tarp, and/or folding chair. The H2 Gunrunner’s rifle scabbard measures 34in x 7in x 3in (LxWxD), with a 20-inch circumference opening allowing for scoped rifles to fit without issue.

Evaluation

After establishing a baseline for accuracy, the Model 70 was fired from field position as intended by the shooting gods for the rest of the evaluation. Echo Valley Training Center’s Jungle Walk range was used for testing. The ability to move through its varied terrain and engage randomly placed targets hidden within cover suited the Model 70 Alaskan’s evaluation perfectly. Humble deer targets were used as Cape Buffalo and elephant targets were in short supply at my local gun store. Ranges involved were 25-240 yards with multiple shots fired at most of the targets. The emphasis was on accurate shot placement and working the Winchester bolt without removing the rifle from the shoulder. The three-round magazine was topped off during movement down the range. Remember, with controlled round feed bolts, just dropping in another round into the raceway will not work. The cartridge must be seated into the magazine with the extractor capturing the round from there. The 1x magnification setting on the Trijicon AccuPoint allowed for a wide field of view and illuminated center dot quick target assessment/engagement. 4x magnification was suitable for longer range shots. The BOG tripod used for the 150-yard-plus shots. The Alaskan’s stock combined with Pachmayer recoil pad tamed recoil to manageable levels even with the .375 H&H loads.

Conclusion

Some would argue that the .375H&H Model 70 Alaskan is excessive for anything in North America. All I offer in rebuttal is that you are never over-gunned if you can place the bullet where it belongs. Plus, you need to study deeper into what the .375 H&H offers. Years after my childhood tutoring session with Pap, extensive reading and personal experiences have only confirmed what he was telling me.

Specifications

Make: Winchester
Model: Model 70 Alaskan
Caliber: 375 H&H Magnum
Weight: 8.5 pounds
Magazine Capacity: 3
Overall Length: 45.75 inches
Barrel: 25 inches, 1:12 twist
MSRP: $1549
URL: winchesterguns.com   

By Todd Burgreen

Why did Kel-Tec introduce a 30-round capacity .22Magnum (.22WMR), 4.3-inch barreled, polymer semi-automatic handgun into the market? Is it for personal defense, a trail/kit gun, target shooting, or dare we say just for fun? The PMR-30 seems counter-intuitive, especially when compared against other semi-automatic pistol “understudy” types most often chambered in 22LR that are modeled after a centerfire “big brother.” The “understudy” 22LR handguns offer similar feel and balance while being chambered in 22LR versus 9mm, 40 S&W, 45ACP, etc. These types of 22LR handguns are ever increasing in popularity. This is based on facilitating more economical practice/training and making sure the fundamentals of trigger control, sight alignment, grip and all the other marksmanship tenants are followed without the interference of muzzle blast and recoil; all the while maintaining similar feel and operating controls of their full-power “big brothers.”

The Kel-Tec PMR-30 stands alone and defies easy categorization. It rejects being labeled as only an “understudy.” It is easy for the Kel-Tec PMR-30 to separate itself from the competition with its .22WMR chambering and ultra-high capacity alone. However, additional PMR-30 features further add credence to its uniqueness in terms of design and construction. The PMR-30 does not pose as an understudy since controls, grip angle and other intangibles of feel do not mimic any other handgun out there. Do not take this to mean it has no value as an introductory handgun. While the PMR-30’s muzzle blast will surprise with a signature more typical of a centerfire cartridge, recoil is minimal and thus manageable by all shooters. Though popular as a manually operated rifle and revolver round, few manufacturers have attempted to build a semi-auto rifle or handgun in .22WMR. This stems from various reasons such as .22WMR cartridge length standards, the case rim specifications and variations in pressure levels of different brands of .22WMR ammunition. However, Kel-Tec decided to tackle these issues in creating the PMR-30.

Some History

Initially founded in 1991 as a machine shop, Kel-Tec CNC Industries, Inc. started manufacturing firearms in 1995. Kel-Tec prides itself on specializing in innovative rifle and handgun designs for law enforcement personnel and security-conscience citizens. Along these same lines Kel-Tec has succeeded in creating an interesting twist with many firearm designs with its out-of-the-box thinking. A brief look at their website will show the bullpup KSG 12-gauge shotgun and RFB semi-auto 7.62x51mm NATO rifle, the compact foldable Sub-2000 pistol caliber carbine and SU-16 5.56 rifle. Kel-Tec’s fresh approach to firearm design always generates interest. The PMR-30 .22WMR handgun falls squarely into this mold.

Design

Kel-Tec engineers turned to magazine design and a hybrid action combining blowback and locked breech features in an effort to tame the .22WMR chambering. The magazine is oft described as pie-shaped with the tapered end toward the bullet end of the cartridge and rim toward the wider area. Kel-Tec describes proper procedures for loading the PMR-30 magazine to help in reliable operation of the PMR-30. The requirements are not onerous with the case inserted into a segment of the magazine lips before being pushed to the rear of the magazine. After every five or so rounds are loaded the magazine is to be tapped on something solid such as a palm, leg, table, etc., to help seat the rims into the magazine without getting out of orientation sequence. The magazine loading method is straightforward and does not take any more time to complete than random jamming of rounds into a magazine. Indeed, it makes one wonder how people load magazines in any different fashion. Loading directions were purposely ignored to test the effect on the PMR-30’s reliability. It was determined that a malfunction was likely if the simple magazine loading directions were not followed—thus, best to adhere to the Kel-Tec directions.

Kel-Tec engineers continued adapting the PMR-30 to the .22WMR past the magazine design. The PMR-30 operates via a hybrid blowback/locked-breech system. One of the potential issues with .22WMR semi-automatic pistols is the wide range of pressures generated by factory ammunition. Kel-Tec designed a new action that automatically and seamlessly adjusts between locked-breech and blowback operation, depending upon the pressure generated by the particular cartridge that is being fired. In simple terms, the barrel is allowed to float forward and backward a small amount in the frame. This is very similar to any design using a variation of Browning’s tilting barrel, short recoil design; however, the Kel-Tec PMR-30 has no mechanical locking system. The method of operation is determined when the cartridge case forms to the chamber during firing. If the pressure generated in the cartridge is high enough, friction will cause the case to “stick” to the chamber walls, and the barrel will recoil with the slide until pressure drops—just like a typical locked-breech firearm. If the pressure is lower, the barrel stays virtually still, and the slide recoils like a blowback firearm. This innovative system does not require chamber-friction reducing methods like fluting or porting as seen in other .22WMR autoloaders. It allows the PMR-30 to fire a wide variety of ammunition without sacrificing reliability.

The PMR-30 follows a similar pattern to other Kel-Tec designs using glass-reinforced nylon (Zytel) and an aluminum frame in its construction with only the barrel and portion of the slide being steel. The PMR-30’s action incorporates a recoil buffer and dual opposing extractors for reliability when combined with the hybrid operating action described above. The Zytel material facilitates lower manufacturing costs as well lighter weight for the full-size frame found on the PMR-30. As for specifics, the PMR-30 is a semi-automatic, single-action pistol with an internal hammer/striker. A 4.3-inch barrel is used. Overall length is 7.9 inches, and the height is 5.8 inches. The empty weight is only 13.6 ounces. A loaded magazine weighs a mere six ounces. This means that a fully loaded PMR-30 weighs less than 1.5 pounds. Kel-Tec has installed fixed fiber optic front and rear sights onto the pistol. The front sight is adjustable for windage only. The front color is yellow/green, and the rear is orange/red. PMR-30 controls are minimal—trigger, ambidextrous safety and slide lock lever. The dust cover features an integrated Picatinny style rail for attaching lights or other accessories an end user may desire. In front of the rear sight one will find four screws indicating that Kel-Tec has tapped and threaded the slide to accommodate one of the many miniature red dot sights hitting the market. Bases are available from Kel-Tec depending on what type of red dot a user may choose. The magazine release is a European-style heel release at the base of the grip. Each pistol ships with two magazines and padded plastic case. As expected the magazines, considering the use of Zytel in the handgun frame, are constructed of high-strength polymer.

Testing at the Range

The PMR-30 was tested with a myriad of ammunition from Hornady, Winchester and Federal such as Hornady 22WMR 30gr. V-MAX and 45gr. FTX Critical Defense; Federal JHP and FMJ; and Winchester FMJ and 45gr. PDX1 Defender JHP. Kel-Tec ships the PMR-30 with recommendations and more importantly a list of ammunition that they council against—mostly non-U.S.-made .22WMR. Range time exhibited all positives in terms of performance and reliability. The trigger pull was a pleasant surprise in terms of minimal creep and weight required to initiate cartridge ignition. RCBS gauge averaged just under 4 pounds after averaging 10 pull tests.

Unequivocally, it can be reported that no issues were encountered during evaluation of the Kel-Tec PMR-30. Why such a strong statement? This is based on various reports of problems encountered in the PMR-30 that were uncovered during research of this article. This is not meant as refutation of these reports only that this PMR-30 performed without issue. In all fairness, Kel-Tec themselves admit to product evolution in the PMR-30. For example, the barrel’s twist rate was altered from 1:16 to 1:11 based on feedback from customers related to key holing issues. Another complaint often heard is that the PMR-30 is not being produced and sent to retail shelves fast enough since its 2010 SHOT Show introduction. Frankly, this is outside the preview of this article.

With a 30-round magazine it did not take long to send large quantities of rounds downrange during this evaluation, with many willing volunteers stuffing magazines and running the PMR-30’s trigger. One interesting nuance discovered with the PMR-30 was that the slide could not be “sling-shot” forward during reloads once the slide locked rearward after the last round was fired. The slide release lever had to be used. This is not a big deal, just worth noting. Another anecdote is the surprisingly loud blast and muzzle flash that the PMR-30 emits. This is based on the .22WMR being primarily chambered in rifle-length barrels and thus the use of slower burning powders that do not get consumed in the PMR-30’s 4.3-inch barrel. Quite truthfully, this made firing the PMR-30 more like the experience of firing a centerfire defensive handgun without the associated recoil. Plate racks and other targets strewn around Echo Valley Training Center (EVTC) were engaged repeatedly as were more traditional paper targets in an effort to get the full sense of the PMR-30’s capabilities.

PMR-30’s Role

As with many new products the PMR-30 was initially touted as filling a role it was never intended to do. The PMR-30 was labeled as the “poor man’s” 5.7x28mm handgun in reference to the FN FNH introduction of its Five-seveN handgun. The PMR-30’s high capacity and chambering in the .22WMR versus 22LR was behind this misleading statement. The two weapons share similar aesthetic lines, dimensions and are light weight. This is where any similarity ends as the .22WMR does not compete with the 5.7×28 in terms of velocity achieved in either a handgun or rifle and was never intended to when it was designed. The PMR-30 chronoed loads across an RCBS Chronograph in the 1200-1400fps range depending on bullet weights being fired.

Accuracy with the rimfire PMR-30 was more than acceptable and probably superior to what most users are capable of when being fired from any non-bench position which is the reasond’etre of the PMR-30 to begin with. It is no problem keeping rounds in the “A” zone of the IPSC targets back to 25 yards and very possible further out as long as users pay heed to sight alignment and trigger control resisting the temptation to blast rounds downrange knowing 30 .22WMR rounds were sitting in the magazine awaiting release.

Ammunition

In terms of ammunition, it was a surprise to find a number of .22WMR loads directed towards the personal defense realm. Both Hornady and Winchester offer prime examples of this in the form of Hornady’s 45gr FTX Critical Defense and Winchester’s 45gr PDX1 loads.

Conclusion

As questioned at the beginning of the article: is the PMR-30 a candidate for personal defense, a trail/kit gun, target shooting or dare we say just for fun? Users will have to decide what roles the PMR-30 will fill in their collection. It can be stated that the evaluated PMR-30 performed without issue, and its high capacity in a surprisingly light-weight package is extremely attractive in whatever role it is destined for.

During the latter days of World War II, Winchester produced a semiautomatic rifle in .50 cal. BMG based on David Marsh Williams’ short stroke tappet piston design. In a testament to John C. Garand’s strong design, they used his M1 action, beefed up for the potent round.

No one knows what prompted them to develop a .50 caliber semiautomatic rifle except possibly to prove the upper limits of this system as by this time no one except the British were using this caliber for single shot use.

The rifle weighed over 25 pounds, was 62 inches long with a barrel of 36.5 inches: a massive rifle. The worst of it was the short metal buttstock with a tang that hung over the top of the shoulder. It must have been horrendous to fire.

Only one was ever produced and it shows signs of extensive use. It had been sent to the Frankfort Arsenal where it was used for the testing of the .50 BMG caliber rounds produced there.

(The author would like to thank Donald G. Thomas for supplying the original information and the Winchester .50 comes from the publication ARMAX, The Journal of The Cody Firearms Museum, in an article published by the late Konrad F. Schreirer, Jr. titled Winchester Center Fire Automatic Rifles, of Volume III, Number 1, 1990.

US Night Vision Introduces the ATAC 360° Camera

US Night Vision Corporation has announced the launch of its new mobile/marine based pan/tilt Thermal Imaging Camera. Built for both law enforcement and commercial markets the ATAC 360° offers visual clarity in any lighting condition. US Night Vision has chosen FLIR Systems, Inc., and Golight, Inc. as its core component providers based on strengths in their respective industries. The ATAC 360° is a low cost, high resolution thermal imaging system that is controlled by the touch of a button. Utilizing a 320×240 resolution FLIR (Forward Looking Infra-Red) camera, the system can see man sized targets from over 1,500 feet. The thermal core uses long-wave infrared sensor technology and can easily see through smoke, fog, rain and many other atmospheric conditions that could not typically be penetrated with other technologies. The ATAC 360° offers full 360° rotation and 135° tilt for complete situational awareness. Models include either a hard wired toggle control or wireless hand-held or dash mounted remote controls. The ATAC 360° is offered as a turnkey package that includes all items necessary for installation and use. At only $6,995 the ATAC 360° is currently the lowest priced system on the market to date. For more information please contact US Night Vision, Dept. SAR, 3845 Atherton Road, Suite 9, Rocklin, CA 95786. Phone: (800) 500-4020. Fax: (916) 663-5986. Their website is www.usnightvision.com.

New Redfield Value Priced Revolution Riflescope

Redfield’s new line of Revolution riflescopes offers an unmatched array of optical, mechanical and functional features in the commonly affordable $130 retail price range. The Revolution comes in 2-7x33mm, 3-9x40mm, 3-9x50mm and 4-12x40mm models, each with a black matte finish and either a 4-Plex or Accu-Range reticle. Key features of the new scope include the Illuminator Lens System with premium lenses and vapor-deposition multi-coatings for a bright, crisp sight picture. The system is designed to provide superior light transmission in the critical low-light/blue wavelength conditions. Also, the Accu-Trac windage and elevation adjustment system with resettable precision stainless steel 1/4-MOA finger click adjustments for superior repeatability and reliability. The scopes Rapid Target Acquisition (RTA) lockable eyepiece helps the hunter quickly find the “sweet spot” behind the scope and shoot with greater accuracy. The Accu-Range reticle option provides hold points to 500 yards for simple, long-range shooting precision. The new scope also comes with a coupon for a free Scopecoat neoprene scope cover ($20 retail value) with the purchase of Leupold rings. Best of all is the fact that Revolution riflescopes are built in their Oregon facility by American workers. Revolution riflescopes have a one-inch maintube machined from lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum, and are nitrogen filled to make them waterproof, fog proof and shock proof. Exhaustive testing in the factory and field ensures the scopes’ durability. They are covered by the Redfield Full Lifetime Warranty. For more information on the value priced scopes please contact Redfield in care of Leupold & Stevens, Inc., Dept. SAR, 14400 Northwest Greenbriar Parkway 9700, P.O. Box 688, Beaverton, OR 97006. Phone: (877) 798-9686. Website: www.redfield.com.

KNS Precision Introduces AK-47, SKS and Variant Front Sights

KNS Precision, Inc. is proud to announce the release of its new AK-47, SKS and variants front sights. KNS Precision has produced six new sights for the AK-47 family in the following sizes: Standard Post .034, .052 and .072 diameter and the Ball Post in diameters .034, .052 and .072. The sights are precision machined from high quality steel and then finished with black oxide. The new sights are available as individual sights or as a six-sight package. The KNS Precision AK-47, SKS and Variants Sights use the standard AK-47/SKS front sight adjustment tool for installation and sight adjustment. As with all KNS Precision manufactured products, the sights come with a lifetime guarantee against defects, breakage and loss. For more information or to place an order please contact them at KNS Precision, Inc., Dept. SAR, 112 Marschall Creek Road, Fredericksburg, TX 78624. Phone: (830) 997-0000. Fax: (830) 997-1443. Visit their website at: www.knsprecisioninc.com.

BLACKHAWK! Ergonomic Duty Belt Harness for Law Enforcement

BLACKHAWK! Products Group, the world leader in manufacturing tactical gear for the military, law enforcement, industrial security and outdoor markets has responded to the growing concern in the law enforcement community related to discomfort and injuries from long-term use of duty belts and related gear. In the past several decades, officers have been required to carry more and more items on their duty belts. As a result there has been an increase in chronic neuro-muscular injuries to the hips and lower back. Several studies and articles have been published on methods to relieve the discomfort faced by officers wearing heavy duty belts. With a grant funded by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), BLACKHAWK! developed and tested an Ergonomic Duty Belt Harness that shifts the weight of the equipment-laden duty belt from the hip structure of the officer to the shoulders. This harness fits under the duty shirt and with a minor modification to the duty shirt, attaches to the duty belt. The Ergonomic Duty Belt Harness fits a broad range of body types and body armor packages. There is no need to purchase a specific type of body armor to accommodate the Ergonomic Duty Belt Harness. There are no moving parts to fail which means officers can wear the Ergonomic Duty Belt Harness in confidence and health every day on the job. They are available in two sizes that are adjustable to fit almost every officer for an MSRP of $79.99. For more information contact BLACKHAWK!, Dept. SAR, 6160 Commander Parkway, Norfolk, VA 23502. Phone: (800) 694-5263. Fax: (888) 830-2013. Their website is www.blackhawk.com.

Winchester Announces New Shotshell Personal Defense Ammo

Winchester Ammunition launches the most innovative line of personal defense shotshell ammunition in 2010 with two new products: the Supreme Elite PDX1 shotshells in 410 and 12 gauge. Both loads deliver threat-stopping power and offer customers more ammunition choices for personal defense. Highly effective in both shotguns and 410 compatible handguns, the PDX1 in 410 gauge features a distinctive black hull and black oxide high-base head and combines three plated Defense Disc projectiles and 12 pellets of plated BB shot. The result is the ideal personal protection load for short range engagement with the performance needed to stop threats. This load is also suitable for varmint hunting and pest control. Designed for use in the Taurus Judge, this new personal defense round provides maximum protection at close range. This ammo is available in 10-round boxes. The 12-gauge Supreme Elite PDX1 features a distinctive black hull, black oxide high-base head and 3 pellets of Grex buffered 00 plated buckshot nested on top of a 1 oz. rifled slug. The result is the ideal, tight patterning personal defense load. The slug/buckshot combination provides optimum performance at short and longer ranges while compensating for aim error. Both loads will be available in February of 2010. For more information you can contact them at Winchester Ammunition, Division Olin Corp., Dept. SAR, 427 North Shamrock Street, East Alton, IL 62024. Phone: (618) 258-2365. Fax: (618) 258-3609. Website: www.winchester.com.

New 10/22 Accessories from Shooters Ridge

Shooters Ridge, a leader in shooting supports and accessories, expands their line of 10/22 accessories with several items designed for the popular Ruger 10/22 Long Rifle. Each of these products is currently available to consumers looking to upgrade or customize their 10/22. Based on last year’s response to their 10/22 thumbhole stocks and .920 barrels, Shooters Ridge now combines them into one convenient offering with the new 10/22 Stock & Barrel Combo (MSRP: $242.49 – $377.49). Ergonomically designed to be natural pointers, the Shooters Ridge .920” thumbhole stocks feature: synthetic construction for weather proof performance, steel pillar for repeatable accuracy, high cheek piece and a soft recoil pad for shooting comfort.

Combo Pack stocks are available in either standard black or Wild Web patterns. The .920” barrels are offered in stainless steel fluted or blue and feature 1/16 inch right-hand twist, recessed target crowns with 45 degree break and the ability to achieve MOA 1/2 inch groups at 50 yards when using matchgrade ammunition. Shooters Ridge also expands their 10/22 stock lineup with four new camo patterns scheduled for release in 2009 (MSRP: $154.49 – $172.49). Shooters can choose between pink and blue Realtree Hardwoods HD, white Mothwing or Digital Woodland Camo. Each stock features the same qualities as the existing line but with distinctive new looks. Whether shooting the factory magazine or a Shooters Ridge high-capacity magazine, the new 10/22 Magazine Release (MSRP: $5.95) allows shooters to quickly and cleanly insert a fresh, loaded magazine for continuous action. Easy to install, this new release tab incorporates a pull action that is easy to operate even when wearing gloves. For more information contact Shooters Ridge, Dept. SAR, N5549 County Trunk Z, Onalaska, WI 54650. Their website is www.shootersridge.com.

New FN PS 90 and P90 Ultra Low Scope Mounts from TROS USA

Two new ultra low scope mounts are now available for the semi-auto FN PS90 carbine and the FN P90 SMG from TROS (The Riddle of Steel) USA. These are optic specific scope mounts. They offer the lowest possible mounting for the optic and are much lower than the same optic when mounted on a Picatinny rail. TROS USA currently offers two models. Both are made from black anodized aluminum and come with self locking mounting screws. They do not require any drilling or modification to the receiver and can be used with side rails. The Aimpoint mount will work with any M/ML 2 or 3 series Aimpoint. It comes with an A.R.M.S. 22M68 Aimpoint ring and all mounting hardware. The price is $99.95 and package deals with new Aimpoint M3/ML3 optics are available. The second is for use with the Trijicon Mini ACOG scopes with the M16 base. The price is $56.95 for the mount. They can also supply the mount with a Trijicon Mini ACOG 1.5×16 with red cross hair reticle for $799.95. For more information please contact TROS USA, Dept. SAR, P.O. Box 680, Clackamas, OR 97015. Phone: (503) 658-3708. Their website is www.trosusa.com.

Brownells Introduces New AR-15/M16 Magazines in SOCOM Tan

Brownells, long known for their beefy catalog of gunsmithing tools and gun accessories, have been building their own 20 and 30-round magazines for the AR-15/ M16 series of rifles. All components of the new magazines are made of mil-spec materials and are manufactured under strict, IOS quality control standards. The heat treated welded aluminum body are hard anodized for superior corrosion resistance then given a tough, dry lube coating to eliminate the need for additional lubricants. Until now they were available in the standard military gray. Now they are available in Socom Tan. The magazines also feature a military-type glass reinforced composite follower to further guarantee flawless feeding in the harshest tactical conditions. The magazines can be ordered with either a mil-spec stainless steel spring or the new high lubricity, dry lube coated chrome silicon spring that’s corrosion-resistant certified to 500 hour salt spray standards and less prone to take a spring “set”. For more information on these new magazines or any of Brownells tools and gun accessories, please contact them at Brownells, Dept. SAR, 200 South Front Street, Montezuma, IA 50171. Phone: (800) 741-0015. Fax: (800) 264- 3068. They can be found on the web at www.brownells.com.

Command Arms Accessories Introduces New Front Sight Mount Rail

Command Arms Accessories (CAA), manufacturer of unique and innovative weapon accessories, is proud to introduce their new polymer front sight mounted rail system. TPR15P securely mounts to the front sight providing two rails for laser and light equipment attachment. This new product has 2.5 inch long Picatinny rails on each side. Constructed of high density polymer it is easy to install and remove. It is secured by three Allen bolts with no gunsmithing required. For more information please contact Command Arms Accessories, Dept. SAR, 76 Vincent Circle, Ivyland, PA 18974. Phone: (267) 803- 1518. Fax: (267) 803-1002. Website: www.commandarms.com.

Lone Wolf Introduces New Stainless Steel Glock Slide

Lone Wolf Distributors’ (LWD) new custom Glock slides provide the features serious shooters demand. The LWD slides are designed after the current production 3rd generation Glock original slide, the strongest ever offered. They include the most sought after custom features at no additional charge including front and rear c o c k i n g serrations, beveled rails and lowered ejection port. The LWD Stainless slide will be available for all Glock models. Custom laser engraving and Bullnose available on request. Manufactured from forged 416 stainless and hardened to 42/46 Rockwell standards, these rugged slides easily convert current production G17/17L/34 FGR frames to fire .40 S&W and/or .357 SIG. Competitive shooters will be able to compete in both Limited and Open class using the same gun with these slides. Glock owners will now have the ability to build custom guns like a G19L/G23L or G26L/G27L. They are also perfect for building the new CCF m e t a l frames. These new slides have a retail price of $ 1 7 4 . 9 5 each and are part of Lone Wolf’s line of custom Glock components. They offer the largest selection of Glock parts and accessories in the world. Contact them at Lone Wolf Distributors, Inc., Dept. SAR, 57 Shepard Road, P.O. Box 3549, Oldtown, ID 83822. Phone: (208) 437-0612. Fax: (888) 279-2077. Their website is www.lonewolfdist.com.

Winchester Model 70 is Back
The Winchester Model 70 is one of the most respected bolt-action rifle designs in the world. Winchester Repeating Arms is excited to announce the return of the Model 70 for 2008. The All-American Model 70s will be built by American craftsmen in Columbia, South Carolina, at the same stateo f – the-art factory (FN Manufacturing) as the rifles and machine guns used by A m e r i c a ’ s Armed Forces. For 2008 the new Model 70 has the all new M.O.A. Trigger System, improved fit and finish and enhanced accuracy to go along with its classic Pre-64 Controlled Round Feeding, Three-Position safety and solid, sure handling. The improved three-position safety on the new Model 70 has proven effective and highly popular with hunters and shooters for decades. Convenient to operate with the thumb of the firing hand, the Model 70 safety lifts the firing pin away from the sear. When the safety selector is in the middle position, the action can still be operated, allowing unfired cartridges to be cycled with the safety on. Model 70 barrels are cold hammer-forged from a solid billet of steel for accuracy and long life. The Model 70’s blade-type ejector allows full control when ejecting a fired case. It also helps to eliminate short-stroking malfunctions. The new Winchester Model 70 will be offered in a Super Grade, Featherweight Deluxe, Sporter Deluxe and Extreme Weather SS models. All will feature a thick black Pachmayr Decelerator pad that will help take the bite out of recoil. For more information please contact Winchester Firearms, Dept. SAR, 275 Winchester Avenue, Morgan, UT 84050. Phone: (801) 876-3440. Fax: (801) 876- 3737. Website: www.winchesterguns.com.

Ruger Introduces New Striker Fired SR9 Pistol

Ruger & Company, Inc. is proud to announce the Ruger SR9 pistol, the first striker-fired pistol from Ruger, and number one in a new line of high-performance pistols to meet the demands of today’s firearm owner. The Ruger SR9 pistol delivers legendary Ruger reliability with a 17 + 1 capacity 9mm pistol in a comfortable to- shoot package. The structurally rigid, recoil-reducing glass-filled nylon frame features a unique reversible backstrap that allows owners to quickly customize the size and feel of the grip, without having to carry separate inserts or use special tools. The SR9 will appeal to both left and righthanded shooters as it features an ambidextrous manual safety and magazine latch. The glass-filled nylon frame and stainless steel slide combine to create a low maintenance handgun that resists finish punishing elements. This is not a copy of any existing Ruger pistol, although it does have the new Ruger look, similar to the current P345 pistol. A slim, ergonomic grip features a 17-degree grip angle and three 22-lines per inch checkered panels that provide a sure grip without being abrasive. The rear sight, part of the low profile, high visibility, three-dot sight system, is click adjustable for elevation. Both front and rear sights are drift adjustable for windage to put shooters on target with any choice of ammunition. The Picatinny rail accepts firearm-mounted lights for target identification in all light conditions, and lasers to provide users with modern sighting options. The first striker-fired pistol from Ruger is loaded with modern safety features like a 1911-style ambidextrous manual safety, internal trigger bar interlock and striker blocker, trigger safety, magazine disconnect, plus a visual and tactile loaded chamber indicator. For more information on the Ruger SR9 pistol and the extensive line of Ruger’s other products, please contact them at Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc., Dept. SAR, 1 Lacey Place, Southport, CT 06890. Phone: (203) 259-7843. Fax: (203) 255-5201. Website: www.ruger.com.

By Christopher R. Bartocci

Last month we looked at Type’s A and B of Colt’s SCAR (Special operations forces Combat Assault Rifle) program. Both used the traditional gas impingement system as found in the M16/M4 family of weapons and fared very well in the trials. However, there was an unwritten requirement that SOCOM wanted a conventional piston operated weapon. They felt it would be more clean and reliable under the extreme circumstances that they operated under.

Colt set out to develop their own piston driven mechanism. Piston systems were nothing new to Colt as they had experimented with it many years ago. In the late 1960s to early 1970s, experimentation was going on at Colt, Rock Island and Winchester to develop a standard piston mechanism to deal with the problems the early rifles had with the switch-over to ball powder. This also was as a response to the publicity of the reliability of the AK47. In the end, a report in 1968 stated that the 10 prototype weapons performed about equal to the current M16A1 rifles. Colt developed the model 703 as a piston driven operating system. Although totally unlike the current SCAR design, it indicates that Colt had investigated this in the past. The 703 was a full-length rifle with a piston rod that was attached to the bolt carrier, much like the AK-type piston. By the time Colt had concluded the development of the 703, all the changes made to the M16A1 and ammunition made a piston-operated mechanism unnecessary.

The Colt 703 rifle when fired, the bullet would propel down the barrel, and gas was bled from the barrel into the gas cylinder created between the end of the piston rod and the front sight base. The piston rod, being attached to the bolt carrier group, would move rearward extracting and ejecting the fired cartridge case. When the bolt carrier group reaches it’s furthest rearward motion the buffer/buffer spring would drive the bolt carrier group forward stripping a round from the magazine, chambering it, and the bolt would lock into battery ready for the next shot.

Colt SCAR Type C

SOCOM’s unwritten requirement for a piston operated rifle was based upon their belief that this system kept the gun cleaner due to hot gasses not being blown into the bolt carrier causing fouling. This is especially true when being fired with a suppressor.

Colt began work to design their own piston system. With the requirement for a free-floated barrel, Colt opted to use their newly designed one-piece upper receiver. Keeping the legacy M4 platform was important as it was very user friendly. Once the shooter grasps the pistol grip, all manipulations of the selector and magazine catch can be made without manipulation of the shooters hand. The left hand will insert the loaded magazine a hit the bolt catch to reload. Due to the magazine dropping free and the bolt holding open on the last shot, reloading can be accomplished is seconds. An added benefit to keeping this platform was taking advantage of the existing familiarity of the operators’ use with the M4A1 carbine.

The SCAR Type C Upper Receiver

The upper receiver chosen was the Colt proprietary one-piece upper receiver. This allowed the barrel to be mounted to the receiver and permitted to free float; increasing accuracy as well as assist in cooling. The upper receiver utilizes a forward assist assembly, fired cartridge case deflector and an ejection port dust cover. There is a continuous Mil-Std 1913 rail that goes from the top of the charging handle area to the front sight base. This will allow the mounting of multiple optics including night vision, reflex sight as well as a laser. The side rails allow the operator to mount flashlights or other accessories. The bottom portion of the rail is removable allowing the mounting of a grenade launcher. When the standard cover with the rail is on, a vertical pistol grip may be installed. During testing, the newly designed Grip Pod Systems vertical pistol grip was used. This vertical pistol grip/bipod is made of 7075 T6 aircraft aluminum, the same as the Colt SCAR receivers. The bottom of the grip turns into a spring-loaded bipod with a push of a button. When the operator drops to the prone position and engages the bipod, the carbine has a stable base for aimed firing. When the bipod is engaged and the weapon shouldered, the magazine will not snag on the ground.

The carbine utilizes the same BUIS (Back Up Iron Sight) as the Colt Type A. The rear sight is a modified Colt carrying handle rear sight. Colt took a standard carrying handle and removed the handle just leaving a lightweight rear sight. There are no sharp edges to snag. It is adjustable for elevation out to 600 meters and has two sight apertures. A 0 to 200-meter close and a long-range aperture. However, any BUIS can be used whether it be an ARMS #40 L or a Knight Armament BUIS.

The front sight is a Colt designed foldable front sight assembly attached to the gas block. This same front sight assembly was used on all three of Colt’s entries and was activated and locked by a button on the left side. This utilized a square 4-notch front sight post and is adjustable for elevation only.

The Colt Piston Operating System

The piston system is very simple and very reliable. In firearms design there are two basic piston systems. The first is where the piston/operating rod is directly attached to the bolt carrier such as the AK47/AKM. The second is the short-stroke tappet where the operating rod strikes the face of the bolt carrier driving the carrier rearward while the piston rod reciprocates back to its rested position in front of the firearm such as the AR18, SKS and FN FAL.

The system chosen by Colt is the latter. By going with the two-piece operating rod the weight may be decreased. Colt has been working on their piston systems for a couple of years in their model shop. In 2003, a prototype was made showing an early attempt of their system. Over the next couple years their design would be modified and perfected to the final system they chose for their SCAR candidate

The final system begins with their proprietary one-piece upper receiver. The barrel is secured to the inside of the receiver and the barrel left free-floating. The system consists of the op rod and return spring. The front of the system consists of the gas cylinder and the mechanism is locked into the weapon by a large pin in the front sight/gas block. There is a gas relief vent in front of the gas cylinder that vents through the front of the front sight assembly. Colt has tested this operating mechanism with over 18,000 rounds without cleaning and without failure. This piston system does not require routine maintenance during cleaning.

As the bullet travels down the barrel upon firing, the bullet passes the gas port and gas is directed into the gas expansion chamber, driving the piston rearward. The rear of the piston impacts a modified carrier key on the bolt carrier group driving the carrier group rearward. While the carrier group continues rearward, the piston rod returns to its forward resting position. On the bolt carrier group’s rearward travel the bolt unlocks, extracting and ejecting the fired cartridge case from the carbine. Then the compressed heavy buffer and spring return the carrier group forward stripping an unfired cartridge from the magazine, feeding it into the chamber, and then the bolt locks into the barrel extension. The carbine is ready for the next shot to be fired. Another benefit of the piston-operated system is the ability to set the cyclic rate of the weapon. Colt chose to make the SCAR Type C fire at 800 rounds per minute comparable to that of the M4A1 with Mk 262 Mod 1 ammunition.

The Bolt Carrier

The bolt carrier group looks very similar to the standard M16/M4 family of firearms but with one major change: a new bolt carrier key. Also, there are no gas rings on the bolt due to the expansion chamber being in the front sight assembly instead of the back of the bolt carrier group. Another innovation that Colt has done is to change the finish of the bolt and carrier. It has a proprietary UCT Defense UltraChem (nickel boron) finish to eliminate the need for any lubricant whatsoever. This slippery finish needs merely a wipe with a rag to clean. This coating also improves corrosion resistance. The extractor utilizes the improved gold extractor spring with the stronger black extractor buffer.

The Barrel

As per specifications, the barrels come in two different lengths. The standard carbine barrel length is 14.5 inches and the CQC (Close Quarter Combat) barrel is 10.5 inches. Both barrels are heavy barrels to insure they can take the required heavy firing schedule demanded by SOCOM. The barrel utilizes the standard 1 turn in 7 inch rifling twist that is required to stabilize the Mk 262 Mod 1 ammunition currently in use by SOCOM. Additionally, as per requirements, a Knight’s Armament Quick Detach flash suppressor is installed for use with the silencer. The front sight base has a bayonet lug for mounting a bayonet on both barrels even though one cannot be mounted on the 10.5 inch barrel.

The chamber has been modified to comply with the “Over the Beach” requirement specified for the SEALS.

The Lower Receiver

The lower receiver is identical to the ones used on Type A and B. It is a standard M4A1 lower receiver with the modified selector lever. As per requirement, this ambidextrous selector operates over 90 degrees of travel (as opposed to the Colt standard of 180 degrees). After testing was completed, this change was not well received. The reasoning in unclear as to whether they were just too used to the standard or if it did not manipulate as fast as the original.

The magazine release is the patented Norgon ambidextrous version. The stock is the VLTOR stock with dual battery compartments for the optics. This is a standard four-position Colt buffer extension with a H2 buffer. Due to the carbine utilizing a heavy barrel, the buffer with 2 tungsten weights and 1 steel weight was necessary to prevent light strikes from bolt carrier bounce. Improved hammer/trigger pins are used that are manufactured of stainless steel. This increases service life especially with heavy volume of fire required of the SCAR weapon. The finish is done in the required flat earth finish (coyote brown) done by Kal-Guard.

Conclusions

The opportunity arose to test fire Colt’s Type C SCAR in their engineering range in the basement of the factory. There was little difference in the feel between the direct gas and the piston driven carbines and their cyclic rate was about the same. The carbine fired was quite worn and neglected from the SCAR trials. However, the carbine functioned flawlessly; firing nearly 500 rounds in 15 minutes. The bolt carrier group was completely dry without lubricant.

There seems to be little doubt that the next generations of M16/M4 carbines will be piston driven mechanisms. Colt plans to introduce a piston driven law enforcement carbine in early 2006.

With the SCAR program moving forward with procurement from FN Mfg. Inc., only time will tell how the new weapons will stack up compared to the M4A1 carbines currently in use. The SCAR trials were without a doubt the most grueling small arms testing in the world since the original Armalite AR-15 was pitted against the government designed M14. Lessons learned in this weapons development program will influence further research and development of further upgrades or new weapons designs of the future.

It has been my privilege over the last three decades to represent the United States in international meetings when efforts have been made by some to regulate or prohibit, among other things, certain types of military small arms ammunition. Each attempt has been unsuccessful in large measure owing to the expertise and determination the U.S. government can bring to the table to challenge arguments often unsupported by facts, law, common sense or reality. This article summarizes one such effort.

Some historical perspective is necessary. Two events germane to the story occurred roughly a century and a half ago.

In 1863, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) was founded in Geneva, Switzerland. It is an organization dedicated to protection of war victims, such as military wounded and sick, prisoners of war, and civilians in enemy hands. It has neither the expertise nor a mandate from governments (who finance its operations) to delve into the legality of weapons of war. Generally, the ICRC has declined to enter this area, as it has felt an endorsement of a weapon as “lawful” would be inconsistent with its humanitarian mission.

In a meeting hosted by the Russian Minister of War in St. Petersburg in 1868, representatives of seventeen governments prepared a declaration in which they agreed in wars between them to refrain from “employment by their military or naval troops of any projectile of a weight below 400 grams (6,172 grains), which is either explosive or charged with fulminating or inflammable substances.” The United States was not a participant.

A variety of explosive rifle projectiles weighing less than 400 grams saw service during the 1861-1865 US Civil War, the most numerous of which was developed by Samuel Gardiner. The Union Army purchased 75,000 .58 caliber Gardiner projectiles for its infantry forces, and 25,000 in .54 caliber for its cavalry. Confederate forces captured 10,000 Union cartridges. They soon developed a crude but effective copy, prompting protests by Union General Ulysses S. Grant following the 1863 battle at Vicksburg. In his personal memoirs, Grant wrote, “The enemy used… explosive musket balls, no doubt thinking that, bursting in the trenches, they would do some execution; but I do not remember a single case where a man was injured by a piece of one of these shells (exploding in this manner). When they were hit and the ball exploded, the wound was terrible. In these cases a solid ball would have hit as well. Their use was barbarous, because they produce increased suffering without corresponding advantage to those using them.”

The argument offered in the last part of Grant’s statement was the issue delegates attempted to address in the St. Petersburg Declaration. While there was military value to explosive anti-materiel munitions, was there value in projectiles designed to explode upon striking a soldier? Unable to distinguish between projectiles designed to explode on impact with soft tissue and those that would explode on striking a hard surface, the delegates banned all such munitions.

Although the representatives in St. Petersburg signed the declaration on behalf of their respective governments, its practical life was short. Only two governments (Baden and Brazil) ratified or acceded to it. Then-President Ulysses Grant declined to endorse it. Technological developments and military requirements quickly outpaced St. Petersburg expressions of humanitarianism as various governments over the next half century developed and acquired projectiles at odds with the declaration’s prohibition. With World War I experience in mind, an international conference meeting in The Hague in 1923 declared, “The use of tracer, incendiary or explosive projectiles by or against aircraft is not prohibited. This provision applies equally to states which are parties to the Declaration of St. Petersburg, 1868, and to those which are not.” The 1923 Hague provision recognized that enemy troops being strafed by aircraft were likely to be struck by tracer, incendiary or explosive projectiles weighing less than 400 grams. World War II and later conflicts found tracer, incendiary and explosive small arms projectiles (or a combination thereof) in common use by all armed forces.

The history of the modern .50 caliber (12.7mm) began in the closing days of World War I. General John Pershing established a requirement for a heavy machine gun in April 1918. The Browning caliber .50 M1921 was type classified in 1921. Modified, it became the venerable Browning M2HB in the mid-1930s. Variants or other models were developed, including modern sniper models such as the Barrett M82A1 employed in Operations Desert Storm (1991) and Iraqi Freedom (2003). Between World War II and the 1980s U.S. ammunition included M2 Ball (to 1950), M33 Ball (1951), M17 tracer, M8 API (1944), and M20 APIT, with foreign counterparts.

There were ammunition performance limitations. Some U.S. and foreign 20mm and other caliber HEI would detonate on impact, without penetration, while API often penetrated through and through with little to no damage within the target. Safety concerns frustrated the desire for better high explosive-incendiary projectiles.

In the 1970s Nordic Ammunition Company in Raufoss, Norway (hereinafter Raufoss), pursued development of high explosive projectiles with fragmentation effect for use in 20mm and, subsequently, in .50 cal. for the Browning M2. The .50 cal. Raufoss Multipurpose projectile offered improved penetration and incendiary effect against attack helicopters and light armor vehicles. Accuracy of the .50 cal. Raufoss Multipurpose (1.0 MOA at 600 yards) proved better than the standard M33 ball (2.4 MOA at 600 yards).

The .50 cal. Raufoss Multipurpose ammunition functions at long range after striking a duralplate of 2mm (5/64”) thickness. With a sharp angle of impact it functions against thinner plates at short range. The Raufoss projectile’s five millisecond delay action virtually eliminated the likelihood the projectile would explode when striking soft tissue as compared with its predecessors. Thus the projectile challenged by the ICRC was more “humane” (to use an ICRC term) than high-explosive, incendiary (or a combination thereof) ammunition in use by militaries for the preceding seventy years.

Weighing 671 grains with a muzzle velocity of 2,650 fps, the .50 cal. Raufoss Multi-purpose round contains explosive, an incendiary composition, a fragmenting body and tungsten hard core. When striking a hard surface such as an aircraft skin, the projectile punches its way through. The projectile’s delay element is a combination of the incendiary in the nose cap, the incendiary in the projectile body and the high explosive. When ignited, the hot incendiary gases are transferred by convective burning of the shell body, igniting the secondary incendiary mixture. This process traces its origins to the World War II U.S. .50 cal. M8 API bullet. The high explosive then is ignited by those very incendiary gases burning under high pressure to a state of deflagration, rupturing the shell body into fifteen effective incendiary fragments to attack the target’s engine and fuel system. Fragmentation is optimized to damage components inside material targets.

The Norwegian Model (NM) 140-A1 .50 cal. Raufoss Multipurpose ammunition received Navy Weapons System Explosive Safety Review Board approval on March 29, 1985. The U.S. Navy designation is Mk. 211, MOD O (Grade A) or MOD 1 (Grade B). Grade A ammunition is bulk packed without links for Navy and Marine Corps sniper use. Grade B, less accurate than Grade A, is linked for machinegun use.

The U.S. military employs the .50 cal. Raufoss round primarily for anti-materiel purposes. Given its accuracy or the inevitability of an enemy soldier walking into a bullet’s path, intentional anti-personnel use or incidental anti-personnel results are not prohibited by law or doctrine.

In December 1998, an ICRC representative met with a Department of State colleague and me to express ICRC concern regarding the “exploding” .50 cal. Raufoss Multipurpose Projectile, arguing that ICRC tests showed it contravened the 1868 St. Petersburg Declaration. My hasty review of ICRC test photographs raised questions as to his conclusions. As the glycerin soap blocks used as targets were cavitated but otherwise intact, the projectiles had not “exploded” as alleged. Further, the ICRC had mistaken the temporary cavity in the glycerin soap blocks for projectile “explosions.”

“Soft tissue” effect has become the accepted standard for evaluation of military small arms ammunition. Two media have been used, ten percent ordnance ballistic gelatin and glycerin soap. The former when shot at a block temperature of 4º C is the more accurate test medium. Most human tissue is elastic and has a memory. Wound ballistics tests of small caliber projectiles shot into ten per cent ballistic gelatin reveal the two areas of projectile-tissue interaction, permanent cavity and temporary cavity. The permanent cavity is proportional to the projectile size as it passes through soft tissue. The temporary cavity is transient lateral displacement of tissue, which occurs after passage of the projectile. In skeletal muscle, blood vessels and skin, this soft tissue is pushed aside, but quickly rebounds – something akin to throwing a small stone into a pond.

Glycerin soap is inelastic, and of greater density than soft tissue. Firing into glycerin soap is deceptive, as the temporary cavity deforms the soap to its largest stretched size. ICRC emphasis on the temporary cavity was misleading. Had the ICRC fired a M33 Ball projectile into glycerin soap as its control group, the wound profile would have been similar to that of the .50 cal. Raufoss Multipurpose projectile.

ICRC procedures were not consistent with standard wound ballistic testing. Shots were fired at full velocity at 100 meters into oversize glycerin soap blocks (fifty centimeters in length), a fact not disclosed by the ICRC representative in our meeting. The average adult male of military age has a thickness of thirty centimeters, while soap blocks for ballistic testing normally are thirty-five centimeters thick. Firing into three soap blocks measuring fifty centimeters thick each is equivalent to firing at five adult males standing in very close formation. Firing rounds designed primarily for engaging anti-materiel targets at 500 to 1,500 meters into glycerin soap blocks of heavier density than human soft tissue at full velocity at 100 meters is not a valid test.

Subsequently, I headed a U.S. delegation for the ICRC-hosted Meeting of Experts on “Exploding” Projectiles (an ICRC term) in Geneva, March 29-30, 1999. Participants were representatives from the four manufacturing nations (Norway, Belgium, Switzerland and U.S.). I know a fair amount about weapons and ammunition, but the most important thing I know is to have people who really are smart in this business accompany me. I had two of the best: Colonel Martin L. Fackler, MD, USA (Ret.), was a career military surgeon with Viet Nam experience. As founder and director of the U.S. Army’s Wound Ballistics Laboratory, Letterman Army Institute of Research, Presidio (1981 to 1991), he developed and established the wound ballistic methodology adopted by the United States, its NATO partners, and many other governments. He is the most knowledgeable person I know in the field of wound ballistics. Joining us was Charles F. (Chuck) Buxton (Master Gunnery Sergeant, USMC, Ret.), Supervisory Engineering Technician/NAVSEA Acquisition Design Agent, Navy Small Caliber Ammunition, Naval Weapons Center Crane.

The invited experts were unanimous in challenging the ICRC test methodology and its conclusions, noting ICRC use of the term “exploding” was technically incorrect and intentionally pejorative. The projectile does not explode, as was evident in photographs from the ICRC’s ballistic tests. Had the projectile “exploded,” the glycerin soap block into which each projectile was shot would have disintegrated. The government experts agreed a munition would be illegal were it designed to detonate on impact with soft tissue, that is, the human body. The ICRC’s argument was that were there any chance, under any circumstance, of a single projectile exploding within the human body, the ammunition was prohibited by the St. Petersburg Declaration. There was consensus that its 400-gram limitation is obsolete. The experts demanded a re-test.

The re-test was conducted at the Swiss Low Noise Ballistics Testing Facility, Thun, September 9-10, 1999, attended by the same experts from manufacturing nations. ICRC representatives attended in an observer capacity. Another error came to light in the original ICRC tests and the tests at hand. Both tests utilized 1989 and 1994 production Raufoss Multipurpose ammunition. Early projectiles loaded with PETN were overly sensitive. The main body explosive was changed to the less-sensitive RDX (also known as H-764) in 1997.

Tests were shot at 100 meters at reduced velocities to simulate shots at 500 meters. No projectile “exploded” in shots fired into glycerin soap or ten percent ballistic gel. Nor did full velocity shots fired into ten per cent ballistic gel. Re-test of the ammunition did not support the ICRC methodology, findings or assertions. The report prepared by the Swiss Ministry of Defense concluded in part: “The tests at the simulated distance of 500 [meters] which generated no deflagration or unexceptionally late deflagrations (after passing through soap blocks of greater density than human tissue and equivalent to the thickness of three average adult males) were not seen as a matter of major concern by governmental experts” (emphasis in original).

“The United States experts have indicated they do not regard tests of the projectile at full velocity at 100 meters range to have any validity, given its primary, intended ranges. Furthermore, they stated these retests supported the point of view that the 12.7mm Raufoss Multi-purpose ammunition will not deflagrate in soft tissue at intended ranges of 500 to 1,500 [meters]. This viewpoint was shared by the representatives of Belgium, Switzerland and Norway.”

One would expect this to be the end of the story. It was not. Two years later, as governments met in Geneva in a periodic meeting of States Parties to the 1980 Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons, the ICRC distributed a new document calling for new regulation of so-called “exploding bullets” based upon the 1868 St. Petersburg Declaration and its discredited original test. The document contained mischaracterizations of the original ICRC test and the 1999 re-test. It lacked critical information, such as the distinction between the temporary and permanent cavity. It failed to mention the many technical shortcomings of the original ICRC test identified by the experts. Astonishingly, the ICRC paper incorrectly claimed that fifty per cent of the shots in the two tests “exploded;” a claim wholly at odds with the tests and experts’ unanimous conclusions. The United States delegation strongly resisted the renewed ICRC effort. The meeting concluded on December 21, 2001, with the following statement by Martin Sorby, Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “We believe that the (ICRC proposal introduced during this conference) fails to take into account some basic considerations, both on the legal and technical level regarding the 12.7mm Multipurpose ammunition. In light of the fact that we seem to have consensus among … (governments) …in our view the ammunition in question fully complies with the requirements of international law.”

No government disagreed with Mr. Sorby’s statement.

One factual issue remained outstanding from the 1999 tests. The second and third blocks in some shots contained internal smudging. The official Swiss report suggested the possibility of late deflagration of six of the eighteen shots, and early deflagration of two shots fired at full velocity. In response to an inquiry from members of the Norwegian Parliament, the Norwegian Ministry of Defense prepared its own analysis. In 2004, Bjarne Haugstad, Director of Research, Norwegian Defence Research Institute, concluded that what the Swiss report identified as “deflagration” was instead the result of ignition of the small incendiary charge in the nose cap, releasing gases as the pyrotechnic train was initiated. This would have lead (outside the three glycerin soap blocks) to eventual deflagration of the high explosive. The gases from the small incendiary charge in the nose cap flowed back into the soap blocks. It did not in and of itself constitute deflagration of the projectile in the blocks. The report found the 1999 Swiss conclusion “to be both qualitatively and quantitatively erroneous.”

Conclusion

Governments devote considerable time, labor and effort to the development of weapons and munitions for their defense. In doing so, they also ensure their weapons and munitions are consistent with their treaty obligations. U.S. legal reviews of the Raufoss .50 cal. Multipurpose munition, conducted by the author in 1998 and 2000, confirmed its legality. Legal reviews by other governments (e.g., Australia, Belgium) agree with the U.S. interpretation. Today Raufoss .50 cal. Multipurpose ammunition is in the inventory of more than two dozen nations. The failed challenge by the International Committee of the Red Cross to the Raufoss .50 cal. Multipurpose cartridge was based upon flawed test methodology, assumptions and arguments of history, fact and law. It was defeated through a determined effort by the U.S. and other governments to identify and refute the errors contained in the challenge.

(The author is a retired US Marine Corps Colonel with four decades military and federal service. He is writing in his personal capacity. Additionally, the author is indebted to Martin L. Fackler, J. Buford Boone III, Charles F. (Chuck) Buxton, Charles T. (Chuck) Marsh, and Keith R. Pagel for their assistance in preparation of this article.)

There have been many accolades bestowed upon the World War II performance of the semiautomatic Caliber .30, U.S. M1 rifle, better known as the Garand. The U.S. had prudently adopted the M1 rifle back in 1936. During the ensuing years the weapon was continually being developed and improved, resulting in an exceptionally reliable weapon by December 1941 when the U.S. was suddenly plunged into war. The United States’ M1 rifle was by far the most successful semiautomatic service rifle fielded in World War II. Russia and Germany also fielded limited numbers of semi-auto rifles, but none of them could compare to John C. Garand’s M1.

Despite its stellar reputation, the M1 rifle did have a few shortcomings, such as its enbloc 8-round clip that made a distinct sound when ejected, and the rifle’s propensity to jam during a heavy rainfall. Work had begun during World War II to fix the weapon’s various problems as well as provide the rifle with a select-fire capability. During 1945 a select-fire, magazine fed Garand designated as the T20E2 rifle was briefly adopted as a limited procurement item. However, the end of the war curtailed all interest in the weapon resulting in the cancellation of a contract for 100,000 of the modified Garand Rifles.

There were only two concerns that manufactured the M1 rifle during World War II; the U.S. Government Springfield Armory and the Winchester Repeating Arms Company. By the end of World War II the total production of M1 rifles was 4,040,802 weapons, a wartime production figure second only to the M1 carbine. All during the war there numerous upgrades and modifications being implemented into the rifle. When hostilities ended in 1945, M1 production was suddenly terminated, and the Springfield Armory began to receive shipments of well-used M1 rifles to upgrade, rebuild and place into long-term storage.

On 25 June 1950, the North Korean Army stormed across the 38th Parallel on the Korean peninsula into South Korea marking the start of the Korean War. The U.S. took quick action under the United Nations flag to assist their South Korean allies and basically fought the war with same small arms issued in World War II. The same U.S. weapons were also supplied to the South Korean army. As the war dragged on a need for additional service rifles became apparent. Despite the continued work on a select-fire, magazine fed service rifle, none were manufactured for issue. Instead, the government decided to resume production of the stalwart M1 Garand rifle. The Springfield Armory, who had produced a large number of M1 rifles during World War II, began to remove its vast array of M1 tooling and machinery from storage. During 1951, preparations for resuming manufacture began, however the monthly rifle and spare parts production rate was nowhere near that achieved during the Second World War.

International Harvester Company was awarded a government contract for the manufacture of M1 rifles at their Evansville, Indiana plant on June 15, 1951. The company’s primary business was the manufacture of commercial trucks and farm machinery. Although the company was seemingly an odd choice to manufacture a service rifle, experiences during World War II had proven that American companies, especially those who had mass production assembly line experience, could easily adapt and produce excellent small arms, and in large quantities. The location of the International Harvester plant was also considered to be geographically advantageous, due to the growing post World War II fear of a nuclear attack on North America. Small arms manufacturers like the Armory, Colt, H&R and High Standard were all located in the New England area and could theoretically be wiped out in a single strike.

The Line Material Company of Birmingham, Alabama was granted its first government contract for the manufacture of M1 rifle barrels on April 30, 1951. The barrels were marked LMR for contractor identification and were used on International Harvester rifles and were, on occasion, supplied to the Harrington & Richardson factory.

The Harrington & Richardson Arms Company of Worcester, Massachusetts received a government contract for 100,000 complete M1 rifles and spare parts on April 3, 1952. There were several contract amendments issued for additional M1 rifles from H&R. Harrington & Richardson was a well established manufacturer of sporting arms, and had produced the Reising submachine gun during World War II, and on into the 1950s for police sales. They would also become a primary contractor for the U.S. 7.62mm M14 rifles.

The adoption of the M14 rifle and 7.62mm NATO cartridge on May 1, 1957 would signal the end of the M1 Garand’s long reign as the standard U.S. service rifle. M1 Rifle production continued until May 17, 1957 when the last service grade M1 emerged from the Springfield Armory plant.

Original World War II configuration M1 rifles are quite uncommon, due to the Ordnance Corps rebuild and upgrade programs. The exclusive use of corrosive caliber .30 ammunition during World War II also resulted in the replacement of many of the rifle’s original 1940s dated barrels. An original configuration 1940s era M1 is able to bring quite a premium price in today’s M1 collectors market. This situation has resulted in a growing collector interest in the M1 rifles manufactured during the Korean War. Many original Korean era M1 rifles can be found in good to excellent condition, because most were actually manufactured after the Korean War had ended. Despite a production run during the 1950 to 1953 war era, most of the M1 rifles used during the war were refurbished weapons of World War II vintage.

Springfield Armory rifles manufactured during the 1950s era will have serial numbers beginning in approximately the 4,200,000 range. Like the World War II era Springfield rifles, the receivers were marked with the Springfield Armory name. The barrels and parts were marked SA and the barrels were also marked with a 1950’s date of manufacture. The stock cartouches on early manufacture rifles would be SA/JLG to designate the Army Inspector of Ordnance Colonel James L. Guion. After 1953, rifles of Springfield manufacture would have been fitted with a stock stamped with the Defense Eagle stamp enclosed inside 1/2-inch square box also known as the DOD stamp. Total production at the Springfield Armory from 1952 through 1956 was 661,747 rifles.

International Harvester M1 rifles had at least four separate varieties of receiver marking configurations, due to the subcontracting of some of the company’s receiver manufacture. Barrels found on International Harvester M1s are usually those of the Line Material Company marked with the letters LMR. Parts manufactured by or for International Harvester were stamped IHC. All stock cartouches were the Defense Eagle stamp enclosed inside 3/8-inch square box. International Harvester produced 337,623 rifles from 1953 until 1956.

Harrington and Richardson M1 rifle receivers were marked H&R Arms Co. Barrels and other parts were marked with the letters HRA, although there is evidence that during production some H&R M1 rifles were fitted with barrels supplied by the Lines Material Company (LMR). All H&R stocks were stamped with the Defense Eagle cartouche enclosed inside 1/2-inch square box. The company manufactured 428,600 M1 rifles from 1953 to 1956.

There are certainly enough variations of post-World War II M1 Garand receivers, parts and barrels to interest the purist collector, as well as today’s average shooter/collector.

M1 Garand rifles were at one time difficult for collectors to obtain resulting in the salvaging of many demilled receivers by welding remnant pieces back together. During the 1980 period many M1 rifles and other U.S. small arms were allowed to be re-imported back to the U.S. as many of these rifles had been given to friendly countries as military aid. Many of the re-imported rifles came back from Korea, their condition being anywhere from good to poor. One government import requirement that turned many collectors off was that the barrels had to be marked with the importer’s name and address. Sometimes this was tastefully done with small letters; others used much larger fonts that greatly distracted from the gun’s appearance. Another source for M1 Garand rifles has been the Civilian Marksmanship Program; more commonly known as the CMP. The CMP offers M1 rifles in various grades direct from U.S. Government stores. Both of the rifles available from these sources are commonly referred to as “mix-masters,” meaning that the rifles were assembled from parts from different manufacturers and eras. This is a common virtue among U.S. weapons that have been repaired or have undergone Ordnance rebuild programs. The CMP does however occasionally offer “collector grade” M1 rifles, although these generally sell out very quickly. Another source for collector grade M1 rifles is from M1 expert and author Scott Duff. Scott has written many articles and books on the M1 rifle and is highly regarded among the M1 collector community. He posts his rifle offerings monthly at http://www.scott-duff.com and they usually sell out very quickly.