 I'm not a fan of stealth contours as a design element but the concept seems solid. Should be threaded though (CORRECTION: comes threaded from the factory and uses an extending adapter similar to the Ruger SR22 - GOOD NEWS!). This from their website: THE MOST ADVANCED 22LR RIMFIRE PISTOL ON THE MARKET. Engineered to deliver best-in-class accuracy and reliability, this rimfire polymer sporting pistol shoots and feels every bit like a custom-tuned competition model-without any costly upgrades or modifications. From the short, smooth pull of its precision-designed Taurus Pittman Trigger System (PTS) to the built-in comfort of its ergonomic grip, the TX22 is one performance-driven full size that's ready to race. Right out of the box. Capacity 16 Height 5.44" Width 1.25" Weight 17.30 oz. Barrel Length 4.10" Overall Length 7.06" MSRP $349.00
 Springfield are really taking the XD-E into a full range of available sizes and calibers suggesting it's garnered a following and filling a required niche among professionals. It is one of the few centerfire decockers that sports a polymer frame and this 4.5" barreled model puts it in the realm of duty gun. I'm looking forward to this full size pistol in 45ACP. This from their site.
Springfield Armory® is pleased to announce that the hammer fired XD-E pistol, already available in 3.3”, is now available with longer 3.8” and 4.5” barrels. The XD-E takes the best elements of the Springfield Armory XD series and combines them into a double action-single action (DA/SA) pistol that’s perfect for concealed carry. Combining the XD’s 1911 style grip angle into a sleek frame measuring just an inch wide, the slim profile is a comfortable fit that is ideal for everyday carry. The design features a Low-Effort-Slide that requires 27% less effort to cycle the slide when compared to leading striker-fired pistols in its category. The exposed hammer is also an excellent feature that adds peace of mind by clearly showing the mode of carry the firearm is in. The XD-E can be carried “cocked and locked” with the safety on, or with the hammer down and the safety on or off. The fully ambidextrous, dual manual safety and de-cocking system allows the user to safely lower the hammer without pulling the trigger.  Wow! SIG SAUER factory PCB kit installs easily on your SIG MPX or SIG MCX via the receivers 1913 interface.
 If you want the ultimate backpacker PCP air rifle, you couldn’t do much better than the Ataman BP17. With its convenient size, .22 caliber power, and regulated cylinder, the BP17 is destined for greatness on the range or the trail.
The BP17 is one of Ataman’s most unique airgun creations. With the bullpup’s overall length just under two feet, the BP17 is built as the ultimate backpack gun crafted to the brand's exacting standards. Beginning with the stock, the Ataman BP17 features all-weather black Soft-Touch coating that covers the beech wood body underneath. This ergonomic stock is ambidextrous and fits snugly and comfortably in your grasp with a rubberized buttplate and pistol style grip. Its onboard 100cc regulated cylinder is built to deliver up to 25 .22 caliber rounds at speeds up to 840 fps. Each includes two 7rd magazines that can be advanced with a smooth forward positioned lever action. When not in use, each magazine can be stored in a groove right below the optics rail. To keep the rifle backyard friendly, the 14.5” Lothar Walther barrel is fully moderated. Last but not least, the BP17 features a two way adjustable that allows the user to customize the pull to their liking.  Since 1985 Swedish born George Kellgren has been innovating the weight out of the humble pistol, rifle and shotgun with the use of polymers. This is a lot harder to do than the average consumer might imagine: when you abandon the fortitude of steel for your frame, things get complicated especially in a tool which must endure the repeated exercise of igniting internal micro-explosions thousands upon thousands of time. Get it wrong and your tool will come apart in short order. Of course everyone is doing this polymer pistol thing now but there were innovators, namely George Kellgren (1985) and Gaston Glock (1982) who necessarily ironed out all the kinks for the latecomers. So to all those plastic pistols who've been born in the past couple of years, don't forget your grandparents. A little history out of the way, let's look at the CP33 (pictured above). Heads up, this might be the perfect modular pistol in infancy! With a purported 50 round mag available as aftermarket, this means you can load a full box of 22LR ammo INSIDE THE GRIP! Not many will understand the significance of this in terms of reliability versus an external magazine (utilized by every other manufacturer when building high capacity 22LR firearms) which is susceptible to knocks and resultant jams. The internal mag is the golden mean for semi-autos as it provides the necessary feed protection to ensure reliability. Next, the internal bolt and lack of traditional slide also contributes to reliability and is more synonymous with rifles and shotguns, but it also means it's undoubtedly being considered for an adapter to attach a pistol brace (or stock with the relevant ATF stamp). Add select fire and you have a useful tool for military applications - this may be the American answer to the B&T USW (at a 5th of the price). CP stands for competition pistol so accuracy is inevitable, and adding a threaded barrel means we get to leave earmuffs at home. A full top rail and M-Lok undercarriage gives endless possibility for added sights and accessories. 22LR means it'll be cheap and fun to spend all day at the range...the only unknown at this stage is reliability and that'll have to wait until the first round of buyers reports back in the Spring when these hit the shelves. Though if it's anything like the Sub 2000 it may be harder to find initially than hen's teeth so here's hoping George devotes his machinery to a good run of CP33's at the offset so we all get a chance at ownership. Ed.
 Bersa make some of the most classically handsome and best utilitarian/service pistols in the world, and they're among the last manufacturers to still make a steel-slide aluminum-frame decocker, or, what's considered a professional's handgun. The founder was an engineer at Beretta and moved to Argentina to set up shop after WWII. The company is now run by his grandson, a great guy and authentic innovator (the CC, BP and TPR are his designs), and they continue to supply numerous military and police forces worldwide. I know it had nothing to do with me but I did email him a couple of years back and suggest he thread his pistols, especially the Thunder 22 (one of my favorites) as no threading service will take them on due to the difficulty of removing the barrel from the frame. And because the frame extends all the way to the end of the barrel it's not feasible to thread the barrel while it's in place. It's actually one of the only weapons you can't get threaded post production. So imagine my delight when upon checking their website I discovered they're taking care of that in-house at the factory. The Bersa Thunder 22 was my first semi-autos back in '89 and in the thousands of rounds (all Remington Gold as that was all my local hardware store sold) I experienced only one jam (an FTF) from a mag that had been sitting loaded for a couple of months. It was also incredibly accurate, and I could consistently topple bowling pins at 25 yards by targeting the little noggins on top. I'll be first in line when these finally hit the shelves in the Spring. GOM
 Meet Walther's latest contender for top dog in the match/fighting pistol arena! The Q5 Match SF has the lineage, brawn and aesthetics to pull it off. A pistol to watch. This from their site:
to The new Q5 Match from Walther is built for the competitive shooter. Built around our award winning PPQ platform, the Q5 Match SF features an optics ready slide that comes with a Trijicon RMR, Leupold Delta Point, and Docter Optics ready mounting plate in addition to the standard competition iron sights. The beautiful new addition to the Q5 Match family features an expertly manufactured precision Steel Frame offering added weight to an already proven platform. Along with a ported slide and the Carl Walther signature ergonomics, and a blue quick defense trigger, the Q5 SF is the flattest shooting model to date.  Ruggedly handsome little bugger, a new contender to the polymer 9mm market. This from the FN website:
Upgrade your EDC with the all-new FN 509® Midsize. This ideal combination of a four-inch slide and barrel with a midsize frame retains full-sized pistol performance in an easily-concealed package. The 9mm pistol ships standard with 15-round capacity and is compatible with all FN 509 magazines with use of a sleeve. The improved controls aid in manipulation, the new improved texturing on the two included backstraps provides better recoil management and a new, flatter faced trigger allows for more controllable trigger press and cleaner break. Caliber: 9mm Operation: Double-action Mag Capacity: 10 or 15 Rd. Weight: 26.5 oz. Barrel Length: 4.0" Overall Length: 7.4" Twist Rate: 1:10" RH Height: 5.2" Width: 1.35" Trigger Pull: 5.5 - 7.5 lb. Sight Radius: 5.79" Primary Features Full-sized performance in a concealed carry package Striker-fired autoloader Double-action operation Fully ambidextrous controls Offered as a non-manual safety model Fixed 3-dot luminescent sights (standard) Fixed 3-dot night sight available (LE ONLY) SLIDE Easily racked, combat-style sights External extractor; loaded chamber indicator Improved front and rear cocking serrations BARREL Cold hammer-forged stainless steel Recessed target crown Polished chamber and feed ramp FRAME Polymer construction with replaceable steel frame/slide rails Enhanced grip textures which enables faster follow-up shots in all conditions Interchangeable backstraps MIL-STD-1913 accessory mounting rail Improved flatter face trigger OPERATING CONTROLS Fully ambidextrous slide stop lever and magazine release MAGAZINE High visibility, low-friction follower; polymer base with black finish Compatible with FN 509 17-round and 24-round magazines with appropriate magazine sleeves SHIPS WITH Two interchangeable backstraps Two 15-round magazines or Two 10-round Owner’s manual Locking device FN logo soft pistol case  The full range of configurations are now available, and each MSRP's for around $1,000. This from the SA website:
NEVER A VICTIM. ALWAYS THE VICTOR. The SAINT™ Victor Rifle delivers a lightweight and agile rifle solution while maintaining effectiveness at extended engagement distances. This versatile, flat-shooting build is the workhorse of the SAINT Victor line up and comes packed with enhanced components selected for rugged reliability. THE PURPOSE BUILT PLATFORM. Our engineers studied real-world defensive scenarios and designed a SAINT Victor perfectly suited for each challenge. With solutions in rifle, pistol and SBR configurations, each SAINT Victor is built to professional standards for unrivaled performance. 15" M-LOK FREE FLOAT HANDGUARD. The SAINT Victor features a full-length "interrupted" rail to accommodate modern shooting styles, providing comfort for those who shoot with a thumb-over grip. NICKEL BORON COATED FLAT TRIGGER. An enhanced, nickel boron coated single-stage flat trigger ensures a grit-free pull for consistent accuracy. SPRING LOADED FLIP-UP SIGHTS. The SAINT Victor Rifle comes outfitted with SA spring-loaded flip-up iron sights that are adjustable for windage and elevation. HPT/MPI TESTED. Magnetic particle inspection and high pressure testing ensure ultimate reliability. QD MOUNTS. QD mounts built into the end plate and stock offer multiple options to suit your sling configuration preference. SA MUZZLE BRAKE. A newly designed muzzle brake that eliminates barrel rise and softens recoil.  The latest air rifle from a premium marque in .177, .22 or .25...
You wanted a regulated S510 and Air Arms delivered, adding a regulator to the XS and boosting the power of the increasingly popular .25 caliber. These upgrades result in a PCP that can achieve powerful 44 ft-lbs in .25, 32 ft-lbs in .22 and 20 ft-lbs in .177. Power isn't the only thing increasing in the XS. The regulator offers increased consistency and shot counts from its 186cc cylinder, delivering 40 (.177), 35 (.22) and 30 (.25) shots per fill with minimal velocity change. These long shot strings are further aided by a built-in power adjuster to balance power and shot count. Each XS features the prized Lothar Walther barrel, which gives this platform its renowned accuracy. This show-stopping system is further enhanced by an integrated Q-Tec Moderator that make this S510 XS one of the quietest airguns on the market. Air Arms is one of the most detail-oriented airgun manufacturers and it shows not only in the internal components but the carefully crafted stock. This version of the XS features the signature laminated stock complete with an adjustable cheekpiece and buttpad. On the underside of the stock are 2 integrated swivel sling mounts and an accessory rail towards the forend. Each rifle includes 2 of Air Arms perfected 10-shot indexing magazines, smooth sidelever cocking mechanism and built-in manometer. The Air Arms Ultimate Sporter has won fans worldwide and turned heads at the range with shots so accurate they require a double-take. If you want long consistent shot strings that land on target every time, make the S510 Ultimate Sporter XS yours.  The Nighthawk VIP Black. Hand built and engraved for those who appreciate a tasteful amount of hand engraving, coupled with a black diamond like coating and Nighthawk’s high-quality build and surface prep. A presentation grade work of art that has a durable finish that can be carried and used daily. As one of our most exclusive models, the VIP Black is built as a true heirloom piece. This pistol is crafted with all the finest customizations, including a DLC finish, and full hand engraving done by master engraver Bertram Edmonston. The VIP is also equipped with a 14k solid gold bead front sight and giraffe bone grips. To complete this truly elite package, the VIP comes in a custom walnut hardwood presentation case.
 Superb basement or backyard training tool for G17 owners or a gateway gun for those considering venturing into the Glock-owners club: wet your whistle on this first and see if it makes you a convert. $99 makes it a darn sight cheaper (and possibly even more fun) than owning the actual cartridge pistol? This from their website:
Umarex Glock 17 CO2 BB Blow Back .177 BB gun
 The TP9 Elite Combat is the result of a partnership between Century Arms and Salient Arms, and is essentially a fully customized version of the TP9SF Elite. Sporting all the bells and whistles of the latest and greatest custom Austrian polymers, it'll set you back about $1600 less. Give it fair consideration if you're looking for a good competition weapon at a fraction of the cost. This from their site:
 Talk about a blast, Umarex have done it again with a very authentic levergun for those with cowboy and grit in their hearts! This from their website:
The Wild West comes alive with the Legends Cowboy Lever Action CO2 Air Rifle from Umarex! The Umarex Legends Series brings to life the classic arms of a bygone era backed by the quality standards and imagination only Umarex can deliver. Taking its style from the Winchester Model 1894, load up and roll out this backyard-friendly version of a rifle regarded by firearm historians as the “ultimate lever-action design”.
 A resurrection of the 1986-1998 moniker, she gets a full 5 stars for looks but we don't have the skinny on the guts and whether or not it's classic Colt with gorgeous steel lockwork (or MIM), or a simplified setup, or 100% Made in America (or what). Meantime, this from their website:
The King is back! Following the successful introduction of the Colt Cobra revolver in 2017, and marking Colt’s re-entry into the category they once dominated, snake number two has arrived. Colt’s King Cobra is reincarnated for 2019 as the 6-Shot .357 Magnum big brother of Colt Cobra Double Action revolver. Sporting a heavy duty frame, 3 inch barrel, and Brushed Stainless Steel construction, the King Cobra secures a new place in the legendary heritage that makes Colt Double Action Revolvers some of the hottest collectible firearms today.  The Black Mamba combines features from our Scorpion 22 LR Target Pistol along with the push button takedown functionality of the Ruger MK IV platform.
It all starts with our LLV Competition Upper. Available in a 4.5” or 6” barrel length, it features a stainless steel barrel (with stainless steel breech) housed in an aluminum shroud. This design provides match grade accuracy in a lightweight package. Integral Picatinny rail on top and bottom is standard. Three colors to choose from…black, FDE and OD green. Our Competition Bolt with DLC Coating is ensures smooth operation and functioning whether its a day of plinking at the range or competing at the highest level. The Black Mamba build utilizes a Ruger MK IV 22/45 frame that has been retrofitted with our Accurizing Kit providing a crisp, clean 2.2 lb trigger pull. The frame has also been fitted with our magazine release that when used in conjunction with our magazine base pads (included standard) eliminates feeding issues. This is accomplished by raising the magazine's position in the frame allowing the bolt to more positively engage each round as it feeds. Competition ready in an easy takedown configuration - the Black Mamba is everything you are looking for an more whether you are a backyard plinker, looking to win your local matches or hitting the national competition scene.  The MPX Copperhead features a monolithic Elite Series Cerakote® finish upper receiver, with an integrated stock knuckle lower, and a 3.5” barrel with integrated muzzle brake. The MPX Copperhead comes equipped with the new SIG SAUER Pivoting Contour Brace (PCB) giving pistol users a brace that easily adapts to the movement of the shooter's arm with a patented swivel operation for perfect placement, and can be rapidly deployed.
Unconventional design, unmatched performance, and familiar AR handling. The SIG MPX redefines the submachine gun category with a new level of operator safety, in-field adaptability and proven reliability in the harshest environments. Completely ambidextrous, the SIG MPX is great for left- or right-handed shooters with its dual-sided selector switch, magazine release, charging handle and bolt release. The SIG MPX operates from a fully-closed and locked rotating bolt, offering enhanced reliability and safety in use. A short-stroke gas piston allows the SIG MPX to run all weights and brands of 9mm ammunition with no adjustments to the gas valve. BARREL 3.5" MAGS 1 (20rnd) OPERATING SYSTEM Gas Piston CALIBER 9mm Luger OVERALL LENGTH 14.5 in (368 mm) OVERALL WIDTH 2.4 in (61 mm) HEIGHT 8 in (203 mm) BARREL LENGTH 3.5 in (89 mm) WEIGHT 4.5 lb (2 kg) TWIST RATE 1:10 MAG TYPE MPX  Glock introduces two new slimline models in duotone. This from their website: With an extensive history of reliability and durability, GLOCK has expanded the product line by introducing two compact slimline pistols; ideal for everyday carry. Chambered in 9X19, both pistols feature a compact, slimline frame with silver nPVD finish and a 10-round magazine capacity. While the two pistols share the same size frame, they each have different slide lengths. The slide for the G43X is the same sub-compact length as the G43 (6.06 in) while the G48 has a compact length (6.85 in). Carrying on with the design of the slimline series, the G43X and G48 create a perfect slim fit for a wide variety of hand sizes. The compact slimline frame combines a fuller size grip length with a minimal profile of approximately 1” for a comfortably balanced, versatile grip that’s perfect for a variety of users. While the width is similar to the G43, it is slightly wider to allow for increased round capacity therefore, the G43X and G48 magazines are not interchangeable with the G43. The G43X and G48 feature the silver nPVD finish on the slide. This durable finish is a variation of what is found on the G19X, which has withstood rigorous military testing. The pistols feature a similar height as the G19 with a slimline width for increased concealability. Additionally, they feature front serrations, a comfortable built-in beavertail, reversible magazine catch and a match-grade GLOCK Marksman Barrel. Both models also come with 10-round capacity magazines featuring high-visibility orange followers.
 Mossberg releases a polymer striker fired sub-compact pistol of their own, AND it takes Glock mags! A. Safe Takedown System ensures no trigger pull required during disassembly. B. Mossberg signature multi-angle slide serrations for positive slide manipulation. C. Standard snag-free dovetail white three-dot sights for easier target acquisition, windage adjustment, and after-market customization. D. Stainless steel slide with upgraded Diamond-Like Carbon Coating. E. 3.4″ barrel with upgraded Diamond-Like Carbon Coating. F. Extended trigger guard for easy access. G. Mossberg flat-profile trigger with integrated blade safety. H. Reversible magazine release. I. Aggressive signature Mossberg grip texturing. J. Palm swell and grip angle provide superior ergonomics. K. Glass-reinforced polymer frame for enhanced durability. L. Mossberg Clear-Count™ polymer 6-round flush-fit and 7-round extended magazines offer low friction and high wear-resistance. Introducing the Mossberg MC1sc Subcompact 9mm PistolTrouble is unpredictable. It shows up without warning. It rears its ugly head when and where you least expect it. Trouble has no conscience. No regrets. No remorse. So be prepared. And be protected. Introducing the MC1sc Subcompact 9mm Pistol by Mossberg. Combining optimal shootability with superior ergonomics, the MC1sc features an optimized grip angle for easier targeting, a flat-profile trigger for an improved pull, and our exclusive Safe Takedown System™: a design that does not require the user to pull the trigger during the disassembly process. The MC1sc Subcompact 9mm Pistol. Be ready to strike back. Built to Carry. Made to Protect.The MC1sc was built for concealment with its slim, dehorned profile that allows for a snag-free draw. Weighing only 22 ounces fully loaded, its lightweight and durable polymer construction is perfect for everyday carry. And with its grip palm swell, the MC1sc will feel natural and comfortable in your hand. Grip panels are integrated with aggressive texturing for added control. It all adds up to the ultimate concealed carry firearm. Also comes in crossbolt safety model - in keeping with their shotguns seemingly - though we've never seen this on a pistol before. Ed.   DA/SA has long been the choice of pro's and though striker fired pistols have reigned the marketplace for the last decade, the safer (and arguably more accurate via it's SA mode) setup utilized in the new XD-E, is making a comeback. And this is a great caliber! Springfield has harnessed some of the advantages born from the striker-fired era (namely polymer frames) and married those with the overall superior setup of double action, single action and a decocker to allow for safe transition from a cocked pistol. Being of the older generation I have to recommend this configuration for anyone who hasn't tried it: I believe you'll be pleasantly surprised by the shooting experience, the accuracy of your shots and how safe the gun feels when carried with one in the chamber. GOM. This from their site:
If you prefer .45 ACP, this is the pistol you’ll never go without. The sleek 1-inch wide polymer frame eliminates printing, paired with a 3.3-inch hammer forged barrel for ideal concealability. The low effort slide system allows for 27% easier manipulation for quicker operation when it counts, while the active grip texturing provides uniquely comfortable yet secure grip contact. A DA/SA trigger, exposed hammer and ambidextrous manual safety/decocker offers peace of mind and various options for mode of carry. Complemented by an easy-to-spot fiber optic front sight. Everything you want in your reliable daily sidearm, now in your first-choice caliber. |
the afd blog
Previews and reviews on newly available items are written-up by our team as quickly as we can find them. Please let us know if we've missed something debuting on the market. As a firearm enthusiast or an AFD listed company you are welcome to submit a blog entry about a new product. You may also submit a firearm related commentary, idea or nostalgic musing: we like things celebratory of American ingenuity and manufacturing. All entries are subject to editing and/or fact-checking. Archives
April 2023
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