Stop Guessing: Read What Experts Have to Say About Stock, Custom, and Even World Class Firearms
Posted: Saturday, July 31, 2010
by Thomas Howland
This article is directed at a new shooter, or even a more experienced shooter for that matter, who asks the question what gun should I buy? It's purpose is to prevent the money a new shooter usually wastes when buying a first gun. Six months or a year later perhaps, the shooter buys another gun based on personal preference or experience gained from the first gun. And, later the shooter upgrades again sometimes spending thousands of dollars in this process of trial and error. This article provides a starting place based on expert recommendations, and hopefully avoids some of this wasteful spending.
First, if you have the resources, you can purchase the model you're interested in along with hundreds of rounds of ammunition from various manufactures and perform your own testing. Second, you can depend on someone else who has the resources and gain access to the results of their testing. A third method--just ask around. Which is what I did. I asked the firearm manufacturers for the technical specifications, as well as, more than 30 of the country's top experts for their opinion.
I began my search with one thought in mind, Frank shoots one group, Joe shoots a different group than Frank, and Pete shoots yet another. In order to eliminate these inconsistencies I wanted to know what the manufacturer said each gun will shoot. I asked each manufacturer six questions:
1. What size group does the gun shoot?
2. What meters/yards/feet is the test conducted at?
3. What ammunition did you use in the test?
4. Was the test off hand, from a bench rest, or from a mechanical rest (Ransom Rest)?
5. I wanted to know about the service life of the firearm (how many rounds before the groups degin to deviate from factory specs.)?
6. I also wanted to know about the warranty?
When this information isn't listed it's because the manufacturer doesn't provide it. I didn't just ask whatever technician answered the phone either. These answers were originally intended to stand up in a nationally published firearm magazine. Therefore, the information had to come from someone with the authority to make that kind of a statement, such as, the president of the company; the head of the legal department; or head of the marketing department.
Stock Firearms
Beretta does not provide technical specifications to their customers. However, I did manage to get a little information from one of the technicians. The technician I talked to told me that first and foremost this is a combat pistol. That's why the army chose it and why all police departments offer Beretta as an option. This gun is not meant to be a one hole shooter. If you want to sacrifice reliability by adding bushings and what not then yes it can be made to shoot accurately, but that's not Beretta's intent. Beretta pistols are tested off hand for function. NOTE The Army contract for 500,000 9mm Beretta pistols was one of the most stringent ever. Each gun had to be individually test fired, and had to shoot inside the chest cavity at 50 yards. These firearms are termed M92. The M stands for military. It is not the same gun the public has access to. If you're thinking I should buy a Beretta because it's what the Army uses --forget it. The Beretta's you and I have access to will not shoot the same as the M92's the military uses. They won't even be close!
Browning The 9mm's and .40's are both expected to shoot 3" @ 50 feet using any major brand of over the counter SAMMI approved ammo. The Buckmarks shoot 2.5" @ 25 yards also with SAMMI approved ammo. All the tests are off hand. Browning doesn't offer a written warranty but does have an implied warranty that's based on their reputation. The representative said, "We'll stand behind our products."
CZ All the CZ pistols 9mm, .40 and .45 shoot about the same 3" or better @ 25 meters. The test is off hand using S & B ammunition. The service life is 60,000 to 70,000 rounds. CZ warranties the pistols for five years from the date of purchase.
Charter 2000 The snub-nose revolvers shoot 2" @ 25 feet using a variety of ammunition, and are test fired for function. Charter offers the original owner a lifetime warranty.
Colt The 1911's shoot 2 1\4" to 2 1\2" @ 15 yards using Black Hills 230gr ball ammo and Winchester 185gr hollow point ammunition. Colt firearms are tested off hand, endure a torture test of 10,000 rounds, and have a service life of 50,000 rounds. Colt offers the original owner a limited lifetime warranty.
Dan Wesson The 1911 New Patriot Series shoots 1.5" @ 50 feet. The 1911 Minor Series shoots 3" @ 25 yards. The 1911's are tested using Winchester, Federal, and Remington ammunition. The Patriots are tested from a mechanical rest. The others are tested off hand. Dan Wesson offers a lifetime warranty that covers parts and craftsmanship.
Glock All the Glock pistols shoot 3.5" to 4" @ 25 meters. The technician said, A The polymer frame tends to flex in a mechanical rest thus all testing is done off hand. Glock pistols have shot 300,000 rounds using over the counter factory ammunition. The test gun in Austria shot more than 500,000 rounds using Hirtenberger ammunition. Glock offers a limited one year warrantee.
Heckler & Koch H & K will not supply technical specifications for the stock guns. Off the record the technician said, "All Standard and Compact USP models typically shoot 3.5" @ 25 yards, and have a service life of 25,000 rounds using over the counter factory ammo." These pistols are tested off hand for function. H & K offers a limited lifetime warranty.
Kahr/Auto Ordinance All the Kahr 9mm's and .40's shoot about the same size groups 1" @ 10 yards free handed using a variety of ammo. Kahr offers a limited lifetime warranty
Para Ordnance All Para Ordinance guns shoot 3.5" or better @ 25 yards. The Para accuracy test is off hand with Winchester 230gr hardball and 230gr hollow point. If Para has a question about a particular handgun's performance, they will go to a mechanical rest. Based on the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act Para offers no express warranty but will service their firearms for the owner's lifetime.
Rossi The 2" revolvers shoot 1.5" to 2" @ 5 yards. The 4" revolvers shoot 1" to 1.5" @ 25 yards. The 6" revolvers shoot < 1" @ 25 yards. The accuracy tests are with a variety of ammunition. Rossi offers a lifetime warranty.
Ruger The .45's shoot 2.5" to 3" @ 25 yards. The .9mm's & .40's shoot 3" to 3.5" @ 25 yards. The Revolvers shoot 2" @ 25 yards. The Rimfires 1" to 1.5" @ 25 yards. The Ruger representative said, "As long as you don't purposely alter or abuse the gun they'll correct any manufacturer's defect. Ruger tested the P89 and P90 with CCI, Winchester, Black Hills, and Federal Hydra Shock. The SP 101 Series .357/.38 was tested with Federal and CCI. The Super Blackhawk was tested with 250gr Federal JHP. These tests are preformed off hand with one out of fifty being fired from a mechanical rest.
Sig Sauer The .380's & . 32's shoot 2.5" @ 10 yards. The Combat handguns shoot 2.5" @ 15 yards. The Sport pistols shoot 2.5" @ 25 yards. The .22 rimfires shoot 2.5" @ 25 yards. The accuracy test is from a bench rest with a variety of ammunition. The only caveat being all ammunition used in the test must meet SAAMI specifications. Sig Arms Inc. offers no express warranty on their product line, but they do recognize their obligations. Sig products will be serviced for one year from the date of retail purchase.
Smith & Wesson S & W does not provide technical specifications for their stock guns. Herb Belin at S & W said, "As soon as we do someone out there will not be able to shoot the same groups we do." Belin added, a firearm does not function the same way when it's test fired from a Ransom Rest as compared to being hand held. Consequently, S & W does their accuracy testing off hand. As such it's subject to the shooters skill and training. S & W offers the original owner a lifetime warranty that covers any manufacturers defect.
Springfield Armory All the Springfield Armory handguns except the Match Trophy and TRP average 3" to 3.5" or better @ 25 yards. The accuracy test is from a bench rest with a variety of over the counter factory ammo. Springfield Armory offers a limited lifetime warrantee.
STI The Executive, LS, Ranger, Trojan, and all the VIP's shoot 1.5" @ 15 yards. They're tested off hand for function. While accuracy testing is from a bench rest with PMC, American Eagle, and some reloads they make at the manufacturer. STI offers a limited lifetime warrantee. As long as the gun remains unaltered any manufacturer defect is covered with the exception of normal wear and tear, i.e. springs, slide wear, and hammer etc.
Taurus All fixed sights, revolvers and pistols alike, shoot a 3" group @ 15 yards. All adjustable sights shoot 2" to 3" @ 15 yards. They are tested from a bench rest as well as a mechanical rest using a variety of over the counter ammunition. Taurus offers a lifetime guarantee.
Semi Custom Firearms
Colt The Gold Cup and Special Combat both shoot 1" @ 20 yards using 230gr Black Hills and 185gr Winchester. Colt firearms are tested off hand, endure a torture test of 10,000 rounds, and have a service life of 50,000 rounds. Colt offers the original owner a limited lifetime warranty.
Dan Wesson The 1911 Pointman Series shoots 2" @ 25 yards using a variety of factory ammo. The revolvers shoot 1.5" @ 25 yards. Both are tested off hand. Dan Wesson offers a lifetime warranty that covers parts and craftsmanship.
H & K The Mark 23, for sale to law enforcement only, is guaranteed to shoot 1.5" @ 25 yards from a mechanical rest, and has a service life of 30,000 rounds using over the counter hardball, and +P ammo. H & K offers a limited lifetime warranty.
Kimber Kimber does not supply specifications for their guns. However, the representative said, "They generally shoot 1.5" @ 15 yards; with the Match, LTP2, and Gold Match being considered a better grade of gun. Each gun is test fired for function using the dirtiest ammo we can find. The theory being bad ammo will cause the gun to fail before good ammo." The only gun Kimber does provide specifications for is the Super Match (listed in the Custom Section). Kimber test fires off hand for function. They also spot test for accuracy off hand using a variety of good ammo. The warranty covers parts and labor for one year.
Smith & Wesson S & W has a division called the Performance Center. The technician said, "These guns are designed for competition." However, like the stock guns S & W does not provide specifications for guns from the Performance Center with the exception of the PPCP Model 5906 and the 629DX (both listed under the Custom Section). S & W offers the original owner a lifetime warranty that covers any manufacturers defect.
Springfield Armory The Match Trophy & TRP are tested from a bench rest and shoot 2" or better @ 25 yards using a variety of factory ammo. Springfield Armory offers a limited lifetime warrantee.
STI The Competitor, Eagle, and Edge all shoot 1.5" @ 25 yards off hand. STI does their testing with PMC, American Eagle, and some reloads they make at the manufacturer. STI offers a limited lifetime warrantee. As long as the gun remains unaltered any manufacturer defect is covered with the exception of normal wear and tear, i.e. springs, slide wear, hammer etc.
Custom Firearms (25 yard guarantee)
Kimber The Kimber Super Match used to fit nicely into the Custom classification. It was guaranteed to have shot < 1" at 25 yards and < 3" at 50 yards. However, Kimber no longer offers the 50 yard guarantee. Currently, the Super Match is guaranteed to have shot < 1" @ 25 yards from a mechanical rest using a variety of good ammo. The target used in the test is supplied with each gun as well. All Kimber firearms carry a one year warranty on parts and labor.
Smith & Wesson The only guns Smith & Wesson will provide any specifications for are from the Performance Center. These guns are the PPCP Model 5906 9mm and the 629DX .44 Magnum. Both guns shoot 1" @ 25 yards off hand. Accuracy testing for the PPCP 5906 was with 115gr Winchester and 115gr Remington. The accuracy test for the 629DX was with 240gr Federal and 240gr American Eagle. S & W offers the original owner a lifetime warranty that covers any manufacturers defect.
STI STI is another manufacturer that used to fit nicely into the Custom classification, but no longer offers a 50 yard guarantee. The Grand Master is an upgraded version of the Competitor and shoots < 1" @ 25 yards from a bench rest. STI does their testing with PMC, American Eagle, and some reloads they make at the manufacturer, and offers a limited lifetime warrantee. As long as the gun remains unaltered any manufacturer defect is covered with the exception of normal wear and tear, i.e. springs, slide wear, hammer etc.
Custom Firearms (50 Yard guarantee)
Briley All Briley firearms shoot 1" @ 25 yards and less than 3" at 50 yards from a bench rest using Federal ammo, and have a one-year limited warranty. The service life depends on whether you're shooting lead or jacketed rounds. For jacketed rounds the service life is 50,000 to 80,000 rounds and for lead the service life is 200,000 rounds. The Briley .38 super has a service life of 100,000 rounds. Briley quit selling pistols in 2005.
Clark All the Clark .45's shoot 2.5" @ 50 yards from a mechanical rest using 185gr Federal ammo. These firearms are warranted for 90 days and have a service life of 50,000 + rounds.
Ed Brown Brown says, A We don't make any guarantees, but you can expect 1.5" @ 50 yards, and about half that at 25 yards using Federal Precision Match Ammo." The best there is for a .45 according to Mr. Brown." Other than Federal the guns will shoot 1% to 1.2% of whatever the ammo is capable of." Brown tests off hand for function. These firearms have a lifetime warranty as long as the guns are not abused or altered significantly. Brown said, "I build combat handguns. All the custom guns shoot about the same so you need to look at things other than just accuracy. I offer the best delivery and cosmetic service of any dealer."
Les Baer Baer guarantees 3" @ 50 yards. The National Match Hardball and Bulls Eye Wad Cutter both shoot 2.5" @ 50 Yards. Also, only in .45 with either 5" or 6" barrel, and steal construction (no aluminum or stainless) Baer will upgrade the gun and guarantee 1.5" @ 50 yards for an additional $295. Baer tests their .45's from a mechanical rest with 230gr Federal Hydra Shock, 230gr Remington Gold Saber, and 230gr American Eagle. Les Baer offers the original owner a lifetime warranty. However, working on the gun yourself, or allowing a gunsmith other than Baer to work on the gun voids the warranty.
Rock River The Rock River .45's shoot from 1.5" to 3" @ 50 yards depending on the model, and are tested from a machine rest with 185gr Federal Wad Cutter. The National Match Hardball is the only exception. The National Match Hardball is tested with 185gr Federal Hardball. Rock River offers a limited lifetime warranty.
Wilson Combat The Wilson .45's shoot 1" @ 25 yards--guaranteed--using premium over the counter factory ammo, and < 3" @ 50 yards. The guns are shot from a bench rest to make sure they group well. The technician said, A Wilson is more interested in the absolute reliability of the gun not accuracy. It's designed for a tactical combat situation--an IDPA gun." These guns have a service life of 50,000 rounds with proper maintenance and a limited lifetime warranty.
World Class Firearms (normally used in Olympics and Internatinal Shooting events)
FAS\Domino FAS OP 601 .22 short, FAS SP 607 .22 long rifle, and FAS AP 603 .32 wad cutter. The FAS\Domino manufacturer will not supply specifications for their guns. However, the Canadian dealer said, "With the SP607 .22lr pistol we're typically getting 20mm (+or-) at 25 meters using Eley, Fiocchi, or Lapua factory ammunition. With the CF603 .32 pistols we're typically getting 25mm-30mm groups at 25 meters using Fiocchi, or Lapua factory ammunition." FAS\Domino offers a three-year guarantee.
Feinwerkbau AW 93 .22 long rifle. T he representative said, "We test at 50 meters with ten shot patterns using Lapua ammunition. The test pattern should not be larger than 12mm--14mm." The pistol is first tested from a mechanical rest and once again from a bench rest. Feinwerkbau offers a six-month guarantee.
Hammerli FP10 Free Pistol, SP20 Target Pistol, National Match Hardball, and Bull's-eye Wad Cutter. The FP10 shoots 3\8" to 1\2" at 50 meters. The technician said, "The accuracy of these guns is determined by which lot of ammo you put through the gun. One gun may get different results with a different lot of ammo. You have to test fire with several different lots of ammo. Then buy the best lot for your gun" The SP 20 shoots 3\8" @ 25 meters. When Hammerli ships the guns to the USA, they take the best of three test patterns and ship the test target along with the gun. Americans like to shoot 50 yards, therefore when the gun gets to the States the technician does additional testing--15/16" to 1" @ 50 yards. The technician said, "I'm working on a new barrel that will shoot better." The 208 used to get 3/8" @ 25 meters and 3/4" @ 50 yards. The technician expects the new barrel to do at least as well. Given proper care Hammerli warranties all their products for two years. National Match Hardball Pistol shoots 3" @ 50 yards. Bull"s-eye Wadcutter shoots 2.5" @ 50 yards.
Morini CM 22M T he manufacturer will not supply specifications. However, the representative at Pilkington Guns said, A We don't test any further out than 25 meters. All the international events are 25m. Using Lapua ammo the group is .4" center to center (ctc) @ 25m."
Pardini The GP .22 short rapid fire, GPE Schumann .22 srf with an electronic trigger, and SP .22 long rifle. ISPC Target comes in 9mm .40 & .45 with 17, 15, & a 13-shot magazine respectively. The PC/GT comes in 9mm .40 & .45 with 17, 15, & a 13-shot magazine respectively. The manufacturer says with good ammo the PC\GT .45 will shoot about 30-40 mm @ 25 meters. Every single pistol is tested from the Italian proof house with the test for function being off hand while the test for accuracy is from a bench rest. Pardini offers a one year warranty covering any mechanical defect. The rest of the information I have on Pardini comes from the dealer. The SP .22lr shoots < 1" @ 50 yards using good ammo Eley, Fiochi, or RWS. The dealer says, "The PC9 & .40 are difficult to evaluate because of a lack of match grade ammo for these calibers. However, we recently were able to obtain a small lot of Federal Match 9mm (now discontinued) and shoot groups of about 2" @ 25 yards--hand held."
Steyr Air Pistol LP5, & LP10. The LP10 shoots 5.5mm to 7.5mm @ 10 meters. The LP 5 shoots 7.5mm to 9.5mm @ 10 meters. Both guns were tested using Haendler Naterman, Dynamit Nobel, and Oskar Shultz ammunition from a mechanical rest. Steyr offers a one year warranty covering any manufacturer's defect.
Walther GSP Expert, OSP 2000, KSP 200. The GSP has a .32 conversion kit available in semi wad cutter and S & W long. The GSP barrels are test fired from a mechanical rest with ten shot groups at 50 meters using Eley, Lapua, and CCI ammunition. Using Eley ammo the best test is 14mm outside diameter. However, the average Eley group was 17-30mm, Lapua test average was17-22mm, and CCI test average was 20-30mm. Walther offers a 12-month warranty. The .32 semi-wad cutter conversion kit shoots 15-23 mm outside diameter from a mechanical rest at 25 meters using Lapua Wadcutter Match.
Stop Guesing Part II
Expert Recommendations
Rather than rely on my own experience for information the technical specifications can't reveal, I decided to rely on expert recommendations. Robert Patton, Assistant Shooting Coach for The Citadel Pistol Team, pointed out that data alone doesn't reveal details like does the gun work (reliability)? Does it shoot reloads? Does it shoot average ammunition very well, or do you have to shoot good ammunition to get the good groups? Is it picky about being kept clean before it will shoot well without alibis? Furthermore, some of the world class handguns are not very forgiving when it comes to mistakes. For the price of an e-mail and in some cases a phone call I spoke with people that have some very impressive credentials. Here's what the real experts have to say.
Major Shooting Organizations in the United States
Handgun Hunter
P.O. Box 2134
Stafford, VA 22555
703-298-1974 handgunhunt.com
Gary Smith, President
Handgun Hunter's Mission Statement is to provide a repository of information for handgun hunters; present handguns in a positive setting; demonstrate the safe and reasonable use of handguns for sporting purposes; and provide a way for handgun hunters to communicate with each other around the world via a global network.
Mr. Smith said, "A beginner should give special consideration to economy and shy away from a gun that's expensive to shoot, because becoming a proficient hunter is going to require shooting thousands of rounds not a few hundred and certainly not a few dozen just before deer season opens. First choice for the beginner is a scoped single shot from Thompson/Center in .22lr followed by a scoped single action revolver from Ruger in 22lr/22WMR until the shooter becomes proficient." For a top of the line .22 try a Freedom Arms Model 83-22 or 97-22.
Single action: Ruger New Model Super Black Hawk Hunter or Freedom Arms both in .44 magnum.
Double action: Ruger, Smith & Wesson, and Taurus in .44 magnum.
Single shot: T/C in the new G2 configuration, the original T/C Contender and T/C Encore, and for long range shooting 7x30 Waters, 30-30 Winchester, or a similar bottleneck cartridge of relatively mild recoil.
Convertibles: Ruger and Freedom Arms 22 LR/22 WMR, .454 Casull/45 Colt, and .475 Linebaugh/.480 Ruger.
Personal Favorite: SSK 309 JDJ in a Contender. The 309 JDJ a custom barrel wildcat from SSK Industries made from a .444 Marlin brass necked down to fire .308 diameter bullets.
Hunter"s Shooting Association
N8881 Hwy. D
Bellville, WI 53508
(877) 381-3356 HunterShooter.com
John M. Buol Jr., Director HSA
The Hunter's Shooting Association is dedicated to promoting and enhancing field marksmanship among big game hunters through scenario-based marksmanship, handling skills, and knowledge of big game anatomy. Participants use the same equipment in competition they carry afield. Buol said, "Forget the magnum of the month." Thus, other than bolt action in basic calibers .308, 30-06, & .270 as well as lever action in 30-30, and a few lever action guide guns in .45-70 there are no strong trends in equipment choice.
Rifle: Roughly equal numbers of Remington, Winchester, and Savage in .308, 30-06 and .270. Popular lever actions include Marlin 336 and Winchester 94 both in 30-30, and a few guide guns in 45-70.
Handgun: T/C Encore and Contender in 7-30 Waters, and Smith & Wesson .44 magnum.
Shotgun: The dedicated, rifled barreled, sabot loaded, bolt action is the most popular with Marlin slightly edging out Savage. Remington 870 is the most popular smooth bore.
Muzzle loading: In lines with modern primers and propellants, such as the CVA Eclipse.
International Confederation of Revolver Enthusiasts
10267 Mast Blvd. # 115
Santee, CA 92071
619-258-1362 icore.org
Chris Saulpaugh, Chairman ICORE
Founded in 1991, ICORE is dedicated to the promotion of competitive shooting using a revolver. Competition involves a combination of shooting skills including accuracy, speed, rapid reloading, shooting from different positions, shooting while on the move, shooting around various obstacles and barricades, as well as the ability to think quickly and react decisively to a variety of shooting scenarios.
Open Class division: S & W 627-3 .357 Magnum, and S & W 627-4 .38 Super. Jerry Miculek and Vic Pickett the two predominant open masters in ICORE both use the S & W Model 627. Miculek used a Model 627-3 to set a world record by firing two rounds each at four separate targets in 1.00 seconds.
Limited division: S & W 686 or 686 Plus .357 Magnum/.38 Special, S & W 625 .45 ACP/.45 Autorim, and S & W 610 10mm/.40. Miculek used a S & W Model 625 to shoot six rounds reload and shoot six more with all rounds hitting the target in 2.99 seconds.
International Defensive Pistol Association
2232 CR 719
Berryville, AR 72616
(870) 545-3886 idpa.com
Bill Wilson, President & Co-Founder of IDPA
Defensive Pistol as a sport is the use of practical equipment including full charge service ammunition to solve simulated "real world" scenarios. Shooters competing in Defensive Pistol events are required to use practical handguns and holsters that are truly suitable for self defense use. No "competition only" equipment is permitted in Defensive Pistol matches since the main goal is to create a level playing field for all competitors, and to test the skill and ability of the individual not their equipment or gamesmanship.
Stock Service Pistol: Beretta M92 Elite II.
Stock Service Revolver: Smith & Wesson L-frame, Model 686 with a 4" barrel in .357.
Enhanced Service Pistol: 1911 in .38 Super, One of the Wilson Protectors.
Custom Defensive Pistol: 1911 in .45, Wilson Combat CQB Compact.
International Practical Shooting Confederation/United States Practical Shooting Association
P.O. Box 811
Sedro Wooley, WA 98284
(360) 855-2245 uspsa.org
Michael Voigt, President and Chief Executive Officer USPSA
The United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) is a nonprofit organization and is the organizing body for the sport of practical shooting in the United States. The USPSA is affiliated with the International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC) which is the governing body for the sport on a worldwide basis. Matches are based on the principals of accuracy, power, speed, and the defensive use of firearms.
Limited/Limited 10/IPSC Standard Handgun: STI Edge in .40 S & W.
Open USPSA /Bianchi Cup: STI Grandmaster .38 Super.
Production USPSA: Glock 23 in .40 S & W.
IDPA: STI Trojan in .40 S & W.
Long Range Rifle: Accuracy Int. 6.5-284
12 ga: Browning Gold, and Krieghoff K-80
Long Range Handgun Association
P.O. Box 77
Paddy Mountain Road
Laurelton, PA 17853
(570) 922-1028 lhra.250x.com
Paul C. Klauger, Founder LRHA
The goal of LHRA is to promote long range benchers shooting with a handgun as a safe, fun, and viable sport open to shooters of all abilities.
T/C Contender in .223, 7-30 Waters, and 30-30 Winchester.
T/C Encore will withstand higher pressures, and thus mostly wildcat cartridges are used.
Striker XP-100 covers the full the full range of calibers--anything and everything.
National Bench Rest Shooters Association, Inc.
2835 Guiford Lane
Oklahoma City, OK 73120-4404
(405) 842-9585 benchrest.com
Don Creach, President NBRSA
The stated goals are to standardize, on a national basis, the entire bench rest shooting program. The development and encouragement of extreme accuracy in rifles, ammunition, equipment, and shooting methods. To assist and encourage any individual or organization in the promotion of benchers shooting. Mr. Creach said, "Our competitors will not use any factory equipment in competition for the simple reason that factory equipment can't compete with a custom-made bench rest rifle."
Actions: HALL, Kelby, Lair, Remington 40X Single Shot, Sleeved 700 Remington, RFD, Neska, Farley, and Stiller.
Barrels: Shilen, Hart, Lilja, Krieger, Spencer, and Turbo.
Stocks: McMillan, Kelby, and Six.
Triggers: Mostly Arnold Jewel.
Scopes: Leupold BR series, Weaver, Bausch & Lomb.
Steel Challenge Shooting Association
6073 Valley Sage Rd.
Action, CA 93510
(818) 892-2188 steelchallenge.com
Mike Dalton, Executive Director SCSA
Steel Challenge is dedicated to the promotion of the shooting sports by providing an exciting visual and audible event that meets the needs of the competitors, sponsors, and the media.
Open Division: The most popular choices are compensated pistols from STI, Briley, Caspian, Para Ordinance, Springfield Armory, Colt and other 1911's derivatives in .38 super, 9x21, and 9mm.
USPSA Limited Division: These competitors use basically the same guns as the open competitors but without compensators or optical sights with .40 S & W being the preferred cartridge.
Revolver: Both Optic and Iron Sight Divisions prefer S & W in K, L, and N frame.
IDPA Categories:
Stock Service Division: Glock and Beretta in 9mm and .40 S & W.
Enhanced Service Pistol: H & K and 1911 clones are the most popular choices. Again, with 9mm and .40 being the preferred caliber.
Custom Defensive Pistol: Les Baer, Colt, Wilson, and Springfield Armory in .45.
Cowboy Single Action Division: Made up mostly of Colt and Ruger in .38.
Rimfire Division: Ruger, Smith & Wesson, Browning, and Marvel 1911 conversion kits.
World Fast Draw Association
P.O. Box 8315
Turlock, CA 95381-3815 fastdraw.org
Gil Guerra, Chairman WFDA
The World Fast Draw Association is the largest sanctioned body in the sport of Fast Draw. It is a nonprofit group dedicated to governing, preserving, and promoting the sport of fast draw.
Mr. Guerra said, "Basically there are only two guns used in fast draw."
1) .357 Ruger that's been bored out to a .45 Long Colt.
2) .45 Long Colt.
Mr. Guerra believes the Ruger is the more preferable of the two. He said, "The Ruger holds up better than the Colt."
Civilian Marksmanship Program & National Rifle Association
Civilian Marksmanship Program
PO Box 576
Port Clinton, OH 43452
419-635-2141 od.cmp.com
Gary Anderson, Director CMP
The mission of the Civilian Marksmanship Program is to promote firearm safety and marksmanship training for U.S. citizens with an emphasis on youth.
U.S. Service Rifle & Pistol Competition
M16\AR15 type rifles 5.56 x 45mm: Military shooters typically use M16's accurized by military marksmanship unit gunsmiths. Civilian shooters use AR15 "DMC"or "CMP" competition rifles by Bushmaster DMC Competition Rifle, Compass Lake Engineering Service Rifles, Armalite M15A2 National Match, Rock River Arms NMA2-CMP Legal Rifle, and Fulton Armory Mirage II CPM Service Rifle. Some rifles have additional custom gun smithing.
M1A Rifles 7.62 NATO: Prior to the advent of high performance M16\AR15's, military shooters used accurized M14's. Many shooters still use accurized National Match M14's or M1A's by Springfield Armory National Match M1A Rifle and Springfield Armory Super Match M1A Rifle
M9/M92 Pistols 9mm: Military shooters use M9 service pistols accurized by military marksmanship unit gunsmiths. Civilian shooters use Beretta M92 or M92 Brigadier pistols accurized by custom gunsmiths.
M1911 Pistol .45 ACP: Prior to the advent of high performance M9/M92 pistols, military shooters used accurized M1911 service pistols. Many civilian shooters still use M1911 "DCM" or "CMP" legal pistols by several manufacturers: Colt Gold Cup, Les Baer 1911 DCM-Legal NM Hardball, Caspian Arms Custom M1911, and Rock River National Match Hardball.
Recreational Target Events
Garand and Springfield Matches: Garand matches are restricted to "as-issued" U. S. service rifles (no accurizing permitted) including: M1 Garand, M1 Carbine (.30 Carbine), M1903 Springfield, M1903A3 Springfield, M1917 Enfield.
Rimfire Sporter Rifle: Any Sporter .22 rimfire that weighs 7.5 lbs. or less and has a trigger that lifts at least 3.0 lbs. The most popular rifles include: Ruger M10/22, Ruger M77, Mossberg M44 (CMP govt. surplus), Marlin M7000, Marlin M25, Remington M597, Savage Mark II.
Three Position Air:
Sporter Class Air Rifle (.177 cal. only, 7.5 lb. weight limit, no special accessories). Rifles specifically permitted by National Council rules are: Daisy M853 (pneumatic), Daisy M888 (CO2), Daisy MXSV40 Valiant (compressed air), and Crossman M2000.
Precision Class Air Rifle (.177 cal. only, 12.2 lb. weight limit, Olympic-class equipment permitted). The most popular rifles are (all compressed air): Anschtz M2002, Feinwerkbau P70, Hammerli AR50, Steyr M10/100, and Walther LG300.
National Rifle Association of America
11250 Waples Mill Road
Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 267-1000 nra.org
National Rifle Association of America defends the second amendment right of all law abiding Americans, and supports of a wide range of firearms related public interest activities. These activities are designed to promote firearms and hunting safety, and to educate the general public about firearms in their historic, technological, and artistic content.
I've spoken with the media department as well as the director of each division, however neither the media department nor the directors will make specific recommendations. The NRA does not want to run the risk of offending its sponsors by making specific recommendations. Therefore, I contacted the national champion for all seventeen NRA divisions. I felt like the division champion would be able to say I used a particular gun in a particular match and because they were not employed by, or directly tied to the NRA it would be acceptable, but the response has not been overwhelming. The following National Champions were the only ones to respond, and one person has asked to remain anonymous.
Small Bore Rifle
Basically, there are two predominant disciplines in Small Bore, Prone and Position.
Prone: About 80-90% of the Prone shooters use European-made rifles Anschtz, Feinwerkbau, and Walther. The rest of the competitors still use one of the European rifles but the rifle has been shot out so that when the shooter replaces the barrel, trigger, or stock with an American component it becomes a custom-made rifle.
Position: Position shooters still use the European-made rifles Anschtz, Feinwerkbau, and Walther. But, most of the time a Position shooter has been shooting a lot longer, twenty years or more. So a higher percentage, about fifty percent, will shoot a custom-made rifle. Again, one of the European rifles that has been shot out but has had one or more of the components replaced.
Police Pistol Combat Program
Clay Tippit, Current PPCP National Champion, and Officer of the Year
Revolver 1500: Smith & Wesson Model 64, custom built by Bob Jones.
Semi-auto 1500: Caspian Model 1911, custom built by Allen Tanka.
Distinguished Revolver: Smith & Wesson Model 14.
Distinguished Auto: Smith & Wesson Performance Center, Model PPCP 9mm.
Stock Auto: Smith & Wesson Model 5906.
Off Duty Revolver: Smith & Wesson Model 686.
Service Revolver: Smith & Wesson Model 686.
Bull's-eye Pistol
James Henderson, is the only person too ever won the "Triple Crown" in hardball at Camp Perry.
In .22: Marvel Conversion Kit, Smith & Wesson Model 41, and Hammerli 208.
In .45: Kimber, Les Baer, Springfield, or a high quality gunsmith.
Service Pistol: 9mm Beretta M9, or a 1911 style in .45 hard ball.
High Power Rifle
David G. Tubb, is the NRA National High Power Rifle Champion. Additionally, Tubb has won 34 National Titles, hundreds of individual matches, aggregates, and team titles.
High Power Rifle: Tubb 2000, and 2000C with Gary Schneider 26" stainless steel match barrel with a 1-8 twist.
Long Range Rifle: Tubb 2000
Palma Rifle: Tubb 2000C chambered in .308 Winchester with a 29" polygonal barrel and a 1-13 twist.
Tactical Style Events: Tubb 2000T chambered in 300 WSM with a 25" barrel.
Varmint Hunting Rifle: Tubb 2000T chambered in 6mmXC with a 25" barrel.
Sportsman Team Challenge Rifle: AMT 10-22 action with a Gary Schneider stainless steel match barrel.
International Shooting, i.e., ISSF, USA Shooting, and Colleges/Universities
International Shooting Sports Federation
Bavariaring 21
D-80336 Munchen, Germany
+49 89 5443550 issfshooting.org
David R. V. Parish, Chairman of the ISSF Technical Committee
Founded in 1907 this is the world governing body for the international shooting sports including the Olympic Games, World Cups, World Championships, and Continental Championships shot in four disciplines Rifle, Pistol, Shotgun, and Running Target. The firearms most frequently seen are listed below in alphabetical order.
10 Meter Air Rifle Men and Women: Anschtz 2002, Feinwerkbau 700 and P70, Hammerli AR50, Steyr LG100, and Walther LG300. Compressed air mostly pre charged.
10 Meter Air Pistol Men and Women: Anschtz LP, Feinwerkbau P34 and LP103 (charged with a lever), Hammerli AP40, Morini 162, Pardini K2, Steyr LP10, and Walther LP300. Compressed air mostly pre charged.
50 Meter Small Bore Rifle Men and Women: Anschtz 14, 16, 18, and 20 series, Feinwerkbau 2602, Walther KK200, and others in small numbers such as Bleiker, Mc, and Ural. Nearly all shooters use what used to be called a "Free Rifle" with a thumb hole stock and adjustable butt plate.
300 Meter Big Bore Rifle Men and Women: The most popular caliber (more than 80%) is 6mm Norma BR. Other calibers include 6 x 47, 6.5 x 55, 7.5 x 55, and 7.62 x 51 (.308 Winchester). Rifles include Blieker, Grunig Elmiger, Keepeler, Seehuber, Tanner and many others using different actions and barrels.
300 Meter Big Bore Standard Rifle Men: The same as above but these rifles have to be "Standard Rifle" type stock, i.e. no thumb hole, hook butt plate, or palm rest, etc.
50 Meter Pistol (Free Pistol) Men: Hammerli FP10, Morini CM84E, Pardini K22, Steyr, and TOZ 35M.
25 Meter Pistol (Sport Pistol) Women: Feinwerkbau AW93, Hammerli 208 and SP20RRS, Morini CM22M, Pardini SP22, and Walther GSP.
25 Meter Standard Pistol Men: Feinwerkbau AW93, Hammerli 208 and SP20RRS, Morini CM22M, Pardini SP22, and Walther GSP.
25 Meter Rapid Fire Pistol Men: Pardini GP, and GPE, as well as Walther OSP2000 almost universally in .22 short.
25 Meter Center Fire Pistol Men: The most popular caliber is .32 S & W long. Hammerli SP20RRS, Morini CM32M, Pardini HP, and Walther GSP. The most popular revolver is TOZ 49 in 7.62 Nagant.
Shotgun including Trap, Double Trap, and Skeet Men and Women: Beretta DT10 and SO5, Browning 425, Kreighoff K80, Miroku MK38, Mc 108 and 109, Perazzi MX8, MX10 and MX2000, and Renato Gamba Daytona. These manufactures make shotguns specially designed for each of these events, but invariably over and under shotguns are used. Mr. Parish added, "It is very important to seek expert advice and make sure the gun fits the shooter."
Running Target 50 Meter Men: There are no major manufacturers of rifles for this event although the most popular are built from Anschtz, Feinwerkbau, and Walther. The Russian manufacturers have made a number of specially designed models for this event.
Running Target 10 Meter Men and Women: The major manufacturers of air rifles Anschtz, Feinwerkbau, and Walther have models which are adapted for this event.
USA Shooting
1 Olympic Plaza
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
(719) 866-4670 usashooting.com
Organized in March 1994, by the United States Olympic Committee, USA Shooting is the national governing body for the Olympic shooting sports and is governed by the International Shooting Sports Federation (ISSF). USA Shooting is responsible for training and selecting the shooting teams to represent the United States at World Cups, World Shooting Championships, the Pan American Games, and the Olympic Games. In addition, USA Shooting manages development programs and sanctions events at the local, state, regional, and national levels including the National Shooting Championships.
Air Pistol: Steyr LP1, and LP 10, Morini 162M, and 162E, Feinwerkbau P34, and the Walther.
Standard\Sport Pistol: Walther GSP series, Morini 22, Hammerli's 208, 280, and SP20.
Rapid Fire: Walther OSP 2000, FAS 601, and Pardini GP series, including the electronic trigger Schumann model.
Center-fire Pistol: Modular Walther GSP, Hammerli 208, and SP 32, Pardini HP, and Morini .32. The .32 S & W Long is the most popular cartridge followed by the .38 Special WC. This is the only center fire event where revolvers are still competitive. Thus, an occasional wheel gun in .32 or .38 is observed. Something built on a S & W K-frame. Usually a S & W Model 15 or 19 in .357 or a Combat Masterpiece in .38.
Free Pistol: Russian TOZ 35, Hammerli 150, and 160 series, Morini 84 with mechanical or electronic trigger, Steyr FP, Pardini K50, and K22.
Air Rifle: Anschtz 2002, Feinwerkbau P70, Steyr LG100, and the Walther. Scuba designs dominate the field.
50 Meter events using a single shot .22 long rifle: Anschtz 1900, and 2000, FWB 2600 series, and the Walther KK series
300 Meter events using a single shot bolt action center-fire rifle up to 8mm: 6mm BR-class including the Swiss made Blieker, custom rigs built on a Stolle Panda action, and Remington 700.
Shotgun: Beretta DT 10, Browning Citori, and Pezazzi MX8, MX 12, and MX 2000. All shotguns are in 12ga. And, Americans seem to prefer 28 to 30 inch barrels.
Running Target: Most running target guns are specialized variations of the current crop of air and small bore models.
A & M University
College Station, Texas
979-845-3211 tamu.edu
Curtis M. Burns, Pistol Head Coach
Coach Burns said, "Buy the best you can afford." Burns, believes there's a psychological advantage when the shooter buys the very best.
Standard Pistol: Hammerli 208
Free Pistol: Hammerli 160SPL mechanical and electronic trigger
Air Pistol: Steyr LP1 and LP10
Steve Musser, Shotgun Coach
Coach Musser said, "A $350 pump shotgun that fits the shooter would be a better choice than a $10,000 Peratzi that doesn't fit."
1. First and foremost a shotgun has to fit the shooter.
2. Most shooters have a set amount (budget) they can spend on a shotgun. Also, consider the guns resale value.
3. Each brand/model will feel different to each shooter, therefore try as many different brands as you can get your hands on before deciding which make/model to buy.
4. Are you interested in Trap, Double Trap, or Skeet? Do you want a shotgun that will do it all or do you want a specific shotgun for each game (it's a personal choice)?
5. Learn to shoot the gun you have. Give time and commitment to the game, the gun, and your skill level before changing to another gun.
Ohio State University
Converse Hall
2121 Tuttle Park Place
Columbus, Ohio 43210
614-292-3783 osu.edu
James Sweeney, Pistol Coach and Dona Kinsley, Assistant Pistol Coach.
Standard Pistol: Walther GSP and GSP Expert. Both coaches agree, "We don't know of any pistol that shoots better."
Free Pistol: TOZ 35, and Morini electronic trigger.
Air Pistol: Morini 62E, Steyr LP10, and Walther.
Pat Cherry, Rifle Coach
Coach Cherry said, "Buy quality! It's cheaper in the long run and will hold resale value."
Small Bore Rifle: Anschtz, Feinwerkbau, and Walther.
Air Rifle: Steyr, Hammerli, Anschtz, Feinwerkbau, and Walther.
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN 47907
765-494-4600 purdue.edu
Charlie Short, Pistol Coach
Coach Short said, "I can buy three S & W 41's for the price of one Walther, thus more people get to shoot." Reliability, accuracy, maintainability, durability, flexibility, and shoot ability (shoots well and easily). Even though we shoot 250,000 rounds through the 41's, the slide life is good for about 30,000 rounds, and needs to be replaced every other year.
Standard Pistol: S & W Model 41 with a 5.5" barrel, Walther GSP, and Marvel Conversion Kit.
Free Pistol: TOZ 35.
Air Pistol: Steyr, Morini, and Walther.
The Citadel
171 Moultrie St. Deas Hall
Charleston, SC 29409
843-953-5000 citadel.edu
Dr. Joel Sexton, Pistol Coach
Coach Sexton said, "I pay attention to what the winning Olympic competitors are using and shoot the same pistols they do."
Standard Pistol: Walther GSP.
Free Pistol: TOZ 35, Hammerli, Pardini, and Morini.
Air Pistol: Steyr LP1 and LP10.
William Smith, Rifle Coach
Small Bore Rifle: Anschtz 1900 or 2000 series, Feinwerkbau, and Walther.
Air Rifle: Feinwerkbau, Anschtz, and Walther.
University of Utah
201 South 1460 East
Salt Lake City, UT 84112
801-581-7200 utah.edu
Matt Delong, Pistol Coach
Standard Pistol: Walther, Hammerli, and Pardini
Free Pistol: TOZ, Hammerli, Pardini, Morini, and Steyr.
Air Pistol: Morini, Steyr, Walther, Hammerli, and Pardini. Coach Delong also considers Feinwerkbau acceptable, but overpriced.
U.S. Coast Guard Academy
31 Mohegan Ave.
New London, CT 06320-8103
860-444-8536 cga.edu
Lieutenant Greg Czerwonka, Head Coach U.S. Coast Guard Academy Pistol Team
After reading the information provided by Gary Anderson, Lieutenant Czerwonka said, "I wouldn't change a thing. Mr. Anderson has done an excellent job, and I agree 100%. I would however, add Springfield Custom DCM Legal .45 to the Service Pistols." Most of our service pistols are government issue 1911's or M92's tweaked by the armorer at Fort Benning.
U.S. Military Academy
P.O. Box 126
West Point, NY 10996
845-446-1656 usma.edu
Lieutenant Colonel Dustin Saunders Retired, Pistol Coach
Lt. Colonel Saunders said, "For a Collegiate Pistol Team you want standardized parts. As I do most of the basic gun smithing, it helps to have fewer different models/manufacturers on which I have to maintain proficiency." The following is a list of what we use.
Standard Pistol: Hammerli 280 and SP 20.
Free Pistol: Pardini K-50 and Hammerli 160 Special.
Air Pistol: Morini 162E, Hammerli 480K, 480K2, and AP 40.
Conventional: All the conventional Bull's-eye pistols are Colt National Match 1911A1 .45's, hand me downs from the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit.
Major Chris Engen, Shotgun Coach
"Fit" is a key factor to consider when purchasing a shotgun. Whereas a rifle shooter can adjust the scope or sights to ensure where he or she sees is where the bullet hits, a shotgun shooter's success depends upon how well their eyes are aligned with the barrel and target. If the shotgun doesn't fit properly, the shooter's eyes may be too low or too high in relation to the barrel. Yale shotgun coach and shooting author, Tom Migdalski, describes the basics of shotgun fit in his book, The Complete Book of Shotgun Games.
Once a shooter becomes more confident in his/her abilities, more knowledgeable in the sport, and more experienced with shotguns in general, they can explore the many shotgun options available to competitive shotgun shooters. Only after they have dedicated themselves to the sport and determined their level of competitiveness, should they consider purchasing the expensive competition grade shotguns available from manufacturers such as Browning, Beretta, or Kreighoff, to name just a few. Until that time, a quality semi-auto from Remington, Beretta, or Browning will serve a new shooter well, and in fact may prove the best gun suited for them for years to come.
Police Department Recommendations
Most of the time if the shooter is not buying a gun for a particular shooting discipline they like to mirror the local police departments. After all we like to think these people know what they're doing. I spoke to Chief of Police G. Michael Pickett, with Meadows Place, Texas Police Department. Chief Pickett said, "For duty weapons the decision should be based on reliability, accuracy, concealability (for CCW), cost, maintenance factors, and appearance."
Jim Moody, Armorer for Los Angeles Police Department Swat Team tested handguns from five manufacturers Colt, Glock, Kimber, Smith & Wesson's Performance Center, and Springfield Armory. Each firearm had to meet the following criteria. It had to be a single action .45 with a four-pound trigger pull (vs. a double action with a twelve-pound trigger pull). Moody said, "That was a must." He also wanted the gun to shoot 3" groups at 25 yards. And, in an effort to eliminate the human element Moody used a Ransom Rest
During the field testing by Moody, Kimber and Springfield rose to the top based on ergonomics, fit, and feel in the hand. The bottom line though was that Kimber's bid came in cheaper than Springfield's. Moody said, A that's why we went with Kimber Custom II."
In addition to their Kimber Pistols LAPD SWAT is armed with Benelli shotguns, Colt AR-15 rifles, Robar modified Remington 700 counter sniper rifles, H & K submachine guns, and AR type M4 carbines. Additionally, they have all the ancillary gear they may need in an emergency: flash bang grenades, smoke canisters, bullet proof vests, tactical knives, repelling gear-- you name it (American Rifleman Magazine).
Police Chief Jim Wetzel, South Russell, Ohio Police Department said, "We obtained several 1911's from various manufacturers. After extensive testing Les Baer Premier II Super- Tac in .45 proved to be the pistol of choice based on reliability, fit, feel, and finish."
Mike Peck, Range Officer with San Mateo County Sheriff's Office began assessing the SWAT Team by asking what is their mission, and what would best fulfill that mission? Peck said, "The first barrier was caliber." Overwhelmingly, the choice turned out to be .45 ACP. With the decision made to go to the 1911 platform the only task left was to select which one.
The Wilson KZ-45 fulfilled all the requirements. Officer Peck said, "As with any 1911, however some fine tuning was required, but these pistols have had very few problems. All of which were simple to correct so long as the person making the adjustments knows what he's doing. The overall performance of the pistol has been pretty much flawless."
Concealed Carry
Wyoming State Shooting Association
625 Sweetwater St.
Lander, WY 82520
Mark Spungin, President
Spungin said, "There is no such thing as one perfect concealed carry pistol for all occasions." In my opinion you should carry the most powerful handgun you can discretely and comfortably carry. In the cooler times of the year I personally prefer a full size 1911 with 230 gr. .45 ACP and a strong side inside the waist band holster. The full size 1911 can also be worn in warmer weather if you adjust your attire accordingly. There is also a lot to be said for the light weight officers sized 1911 also in .45 ACP. For shooters with a smaller build a .38 special revolver either small or medium frame is acceptable. And, except for the most expert shooters the small .357's are really too unpleasant to shoot.
Idaho Rifle & Pistol Association
1036 SW 4th Avenue
Ontario, OR 97914
Neil Goodfellow, President
Mr. Goodfellow reminds shooters that combat or self-defense shooting is up close and personal, usually less than 21 feet, and in conditions that are not conducive to a high level of accuracy. If the shooter can keep the gun/ammo combination in a 3 or 4-inch group at 7 to10 yards, he has a more than adequate combination. Ammo is considered an important issue, not for accuracy per se, but for function and reliability in the weapon and performance against the bad guy.
Goodfellow said, "Reliability is a huge issue. I recommend the shooter puts at least 500 rounds through a new gun in order to get acquainted with the weapon and to ensure that the weapon/ammo choice is going to be reliable."
Cartridges should be limited to 9MM, 40 S & W, .45ACP, 45 GAP, .357 Magnum or .38 Special +p, 357Sig or other such calibers that offer similar performance. I do not care for the sub-calibers although any gun is better than no gun.
I personally prefer single action weapons such as the 1911 platforms or the Browning High power platform. My next choice are the safe actions such as the Glock, which has a consistent trigger pull. Thirdly, are the double/single actions. A double action only would be my last choice.
Colorado State Shooting Association
609 W. Littleton Blvd., Suite 206
Littleton, CO 80120
720-283-1376 cssa.org
Anthony J. Fabian, President
For every day concealed carry Mr. Fabian prefers the HK P7M8, and Milt Sparks Versa-Max 2 IWB holster. Fabian notes that virtually every other semi-auto pistol sports a tipping or moving barrel. With the P7's fixed barrel design it's common to place three shots in a one inch group at 25 yards. Due to the cost of the P7, more than $1300, Mr. Fabian also recommends a Glock 19 or 23. Fabian believes a factory refurbished Glock is one of the best value semi-auto pistols on the market.
Texas Concealed Handgun Instructor Association
4319 Medical Drive
San Antonio, TX 78229
210-694-0033 txchia.org
Dan West, President
Mr. West suggests:
1. Any gun that works reliably and can be used confidently by the operator.
2. Ask yourself these questions: Am I going to need to use this gun? Is this the gun I want my life, or the life of another person, to depend on?
Stop Guessing Part III
Summary
Based on the expert's recommendations I have identified four predominant views: First, are the Professionals; Second, are the International Shooting Organizations; third, are the American Shooting Associations; and lastly, you're on your own.
I. A professional includes the military, various law enforcement agencies, an armed security guard etc., anyone that's paid to carry a gun. The requirements for law enforcement are reliability, accuracy, concealability (for CCW), cost, maintenance factors, and appearance. Reliability is considered paramount for this person. The idea is simple. I'd rather have an old 1911 hardballer that shoots 8" groups at 15 yards yet works every time I need it than a brand new custom-made firearm that shoots 1"groups at 25 yards, but doesn't work when my life depends on it.
Stock guns are usually considered 15 yard guns. Most shooters think in terms of a fifteen yard gun--I hate this damn gun. Most law enforcement officers think in terms of a fifteen yard gun as well. However, I believe a change is in order. A semi-custom gun should be considered the minimum acceptable firearm for a professional.
II. International shooting organizations, i.e. ISSF, USA Shooting, and Colleges/Universities.
A. The prevailing opinion in the United States is from the Olympic Training Center (OTC); reliability, accuracy, maintainability, durability, flexibility, and shoot ability (shoots well and easily). For international shooting think:
1. Rifles--Answertz, Feinwerkbau, and Walther.
2. Pistols--Walther and Hammerli.
B. A college shooting team is comparable to the differences between a college football team and a pro-football team. College shooting coaches, even though they have legitimate reasons, tend to think differently than the prevailing view. The following coaches illustrate this point very well.
1. Charlie Short, Pistol Coach at Purdue University said, "I can buy three S & W 41's for the price of one Hammerli, thus more people get to shoot."
2. Lieutenant Colonel Dustin Saunders Retired, Pistol Coach West Point Pistol Team said, "For a Collegiate Pistol Team you want standardized parts. As I do most of the basic gun smithing myself, it helps to have fewer different models/manufacturers on which I have to maintain proficiency."
III. NRA, CMP, and the various shooting associations:
A. NRA: A good place to start is the NRA's equipment survey of contestants competing in the Nationals. Contestants compete in seventeen different divisions including small bore; small bore hunting rifle; high power; high power hunting rifle; hunter's pistol; small bore hunter's pistol; long range conventional pistol; long range conventional revolver; and black powder to name a few. Call the NRA and ask for the results bulletin for the category you're interested in. They used to mail it free of charge.
B. Various shooting associations: Most of the shooting associations are extremely firearm specific. Ultimately, you're going to need a gun appropriate for the specific game. For that reason I'd stick with the CEO's recommendation. For example, if you want to shoot IPSC then you're going to need a high capacity ported .45 or .38 super. If you want to shoot IDPA then you need a single stack .45. If you like Benchrest shooting then don't show up with a .22 caliber Remington and expect to be able to compete.
IV. On your own: Building your own gun means you're using a high quality gunsmith. On the web look up Top 100 Guns and Gear Sites, and American Handgunner 100 Club (top 100 gunsmiths in America).
Stop Guessing Part IV
Personal Recommendations
The experts have already covered everything--now for the rest of it. Now that you have the correct answers, does that mean you should run out and spend $3,000.00 for a world class pistol or rifle? That depends! The first and most obvious obstacle is money. Not everyone can afford this type of an investment. Second, you need to ask yourself if your skill level warrants this type of equipment?
Before you decide consider this. I have always regarded myself as an average shooter. It took me 10,000 rounds before I could shoot well enough to warrant a change in equipment. What that means is if I'm average and it took me 10,000 rounds then it will probably take the next person about the same--10,000 rounds. My personal recommendation is to out shoot the stock class of guns first. If you stick with the sport long enough to be able to shoot better than the stock guns then you have proven, at least to yourself, your level of commitment and determination is such that you warrant a better class of equipment. I'll offer additional options for beginning and mid level shooters that are a little easier on the pocketbook. I leave the advanced recommendations for the real experts.
I've found the cost of ammunition, more than anything else, determines how often one practices. For that reason, a pistol/rifle chambered in .22lr should be considered a necessity. I can buy 500 rounds of .22 long rifle in the bulk packs for $7.98 that's10,000 rounds of .22lr ammunition for less than $200. Try that with a .45. Also, instead of thinking S & W, Browning, or Ruger, when you think .22--think World Class. A used Walther GSP is an excellent 1st gun and sells for $800 to $1,000. New it's about $1700. Note about the Walther: I bought a new one. I had to buy two different barrels before I got one that would shoot the way I expected a world class firearm to shoot, but I'm very happy with the second barrel.
I understand everyone isn't going to be able to spend $1000.00 just to get started shooting. If that's the case a .22 caliber Browning Camper with a 5 1/2" bull barrel is an excellent choice. Remember to skip the bells and whistles offered by the other models. It's the barrel that makes the gun, and all the .22 caliber Browning pistols have the same barrel. Even the Buckmarks. For 250 dollars you can't go wrong.
Recently, Browning has begun to offer a competition grade two stage trigger on one of the Buckmarks. That's about like putting a Porsche air breather on your good old reliable Chevrolet. It isn't going to make the car run any faster. Your money will be better spent by sticking with the basic Browning to start with, and when you are ready to upgrade switch to a Walther.
Some experts prefer a .22 Ruger Target/Government Model as a first gun. I don't like it. The 7 1/2 " barrel tends to be a little heavy ended, consequently the shooter has to forcibly hold the gun on target. Yes, it's easy to argue I have enough hand strength so that I can control the longer heavier barrel. But, why make it an issue at all? The Browning 5 1/2" bull barrel seems perfectly balanced to me. Thus, it's one less issue to have to worry about.
Revolvers: A revolver used to be considered more reliable than a semi-auto handgun, but that's just not the case anymore. Yes, a revolver is more reliable than the junk semi-autos more commonly referred to as a Saturday night special, but by sticking with the stock guns, you shouldn't have any problems with reliability from a semi-auto handgun.
For anyone still interested in a revolver I prefer the guns offered by the Smith & Wesson Custom Shop. They're more expensive then a stock Smith & Wesson, but they're backed up with a written guarantee of accuracy. They're worth the extra money even if you have to wait a while. If you're on a budget, I like stock Smith & Wesson and Ruger.
Most of the hype surrounding a .44 magnum comes from the movie Dirty Harry. It's also pretty much a symbol associated with motorcycle gangs--the rest of use a .45.
Pistol: The army used to use a .45, but in 1984 they switched to a 9mm Beretta. The army decided capacity was more important than caliber. The nation's police departments quickly followed suit. However, after 20 years of keeping statistics the police departments have discovered the 9mm has a tendency to over penetrate, or ricochet off bone. Now the police departments have switched back to a .45 (weapon of choice) followed by a .357 Sig.(no ricochet), and the .40 S & W.
Rifle: Refer back to USA shooting and you'll find Remington 700 is number three in the world. The world's best rifle is the 6mm BR-class Swiss made Blieker, and second are the custom rigs built on a Stolle Panda action. Faced with the cost and difficulty to obtain either of these rifles I'd stick with a Remington. It's easy to obtain and reasonably priced.
A new hunter bases his decision on reliability, price, widest selection in bullet weight, and availability of ammo. He doesn't want to spend a fortune for a gun. More than likely he's thinking a used rifle for about $350.00 would be good. Personally, I like the classics e.g., Remington 700; Winchester Model 70; and all the Weatherby Magnums. Two calibers will suffice for most hunting scenarios in the U.S. e.g., 6mm & 7mm Shooting Times Western. But, I could only afford one rifle it would be a semi-auto in .257 Roberts. Also, as a general rule of thumb I prefer Black Hills ammunition over most others.
The experienced hunter will prefer a custom rifle built on a Remington 700 or a Stole Panda action. The next decision is based on bullet performance, that is, he works backward by deciding on the target e.g., small, medium, or large/dangerous game. Then the hunter determines correct caliber and bullet weight for the game. Follow up with a Krieger or Shillen barrel; a muzzle break; Arnold Jewel Trigger; McMillin stock; and a Leupold, Nikon or Pentax scope.
Most police sniper shots are less than 100 yards. Thus, law enforcement uses .308 Winchester 168 gr. Sierra Match with a 1 in 12 twist, and an 18" to 20" barrel intended for a range of 50 to 150 yards.
Note: The FBI used to use a .243, but they discovered the round was to light to penetrate a barrier effectively. Depending on the barrier most law enforcement agencies use either a.270, 30-06, or a .308, with the .308 being pretty much the standard round.
AR15: I have 2 Wilson Combat UT-15's. I use Wolf 55 gr FMJ or HP ammunition for economy, and Black Hills for the regular stuff. Using Black Hills 52gr Match HP my Wilson shoots 1/2" groups @100 yards, and 1 1/8" groups @ 200 yards. Although the 52gr is the most accurate it's too light for 300 yards. If there's any wind the groups will move all over the target. Switch to Black Hills 69gr Match for 300 yds. The best group I've shot @ 300 yards is 2 3/16". Switching to Black Hills 77gr Heavy Match @ 400 yards yields consistent 5" and 6"groups while the best group I've shot at 400 yards is a 3 3/8" five-shot group. And, believe it or not, the re-manufactured (blue box) shoots better, in my gun, than the new ammo (red box).
Military ammunition for my Wilsons e.g., armor piercing/with a steel penetrator will penetrate a 12 millimeter titanium chest plate at 100 meters, that is, defeat class 4 body armor. Accuracy for all brands of armor piercing ammunition are acceptable at 300 yds. However, the best is Olympic 62 gr. AP made in Greece with a 2 7/8" 300 yd group, and 6 ½" group @ 400 yards. Second, is Lake City MX855 62 gr AP with a 3 5/8" 300 yd group.
MK262 77gr hollow point by Black Hills will penetrate one side of a steel helmet at 500 meters. It takes the 77gr bullet 500 yds. before it will stabilize properly, thus accuracy is better at 500 yards than at 400. This amunition will shoot consistant 5" to 8" groups @ 500 yards while the best I've ever shot is a 1 ¾" three-shot group.
In Iraq, the military uses the M40A1 and the M40A3 sniper rifle in 7.62 x 51, and 175gr standard NATO round. The longest kill shot with 7.62 x 51 is 1230 yards, or .7 mile. The military also uses the Barret M107 light 50 caliber, and Barret M82A3 50 caliber in semi-auto. The amunition for the 50's is Rafus MK2 671gr. incendary round with a tungston penitrator. And, because of the cost associated with the Rafus round most of the practice is with ball M33. The 50 caliber rifles are considered 2000 yard rifles. The longest kill shot in history,1.5. miles, was made with a 50 caliber McMillan TAC 50 long range sniper rifle.
What does the future hold for long-range sniper rifles-who can say for sure! However, Accuracy International and Barrett both offer a semi-auto 50 caliber. A bolt action is usually considered the most accurate, while a semi auto offers quick follow-up shots. Barrett offers a .416, and claims a cold bore shot at 2500 yards with this rifle. The CheyTac M200 uses a 419 gr .408 round, which is intended for soft targets, that offers the best of three worlds e.g., accuracy, range, and power. The .408 stays supersonic out to 2000 yards and has more kinetic energy than a 50 cal. at that range.
Shotguns: The professionals will tell you to buy a 12 ga. Mossberg 590, 3000, or Remington 870 pump. All three should have a 18" or 20" barrel, and have 26" overall length with a push button safety at the back of the trigger for the 870 and 3000, and a tang type safety for the 590. They'll tell you using a pump means there's less that could go wrong. They also say you have a psychological advantage when the bad guy hears the unmistakable sound of someone racking a shell into a 12-gauge pump shotgun. Very few bad guys are still willing to argue with you at this point.
Personally, I like the Wilson Combat 12 ga. semi-auto. Forget the psychological advantage and take the tactical advantage instead, e.g. you get to shoot as fast as you can pull the trigger. The semi-auto has another advantage also. It helps to soften the recoil. Using 2 3/4" shells instead of 3" magnums will help too. I use the 2 3/4" managed recoil "00" buckshot from Winchester.
Home defense and concealed carry:
The .45 aficionados are of the opinion there's only one choice for concealed carry--a .45. The idea being you want the shock from the gunshot wound to be so traumatic the assailant can't even twitch a finger. If he can twitch a finger, he can pull a trigger.
The small and medium frame proponents will tell you the primary concern for a concealed carry weapon is concealability followed by light weight. One usually has to give up a large caliber firearm in order to have a gun that's small enough to conceal easily. However, both sides agree. Reliability of the gun and ammunition is the single most important issue.
Among the small and medium frame proponents there are two schools of thought. Americans like a .357/.38 Special. The rest of the world likes a .380. The idea behind the .38 is simple. Even without firearms training virtually anybody can operate a .38. There are no safeties, slides, magazines, or springs to worry about. Just point the gun and pull the trigger. It's almost instinctive.
I have a different point of view than most people. There's no substitute for practice, i.e. marksmanship does the work. Caliber and capacity become important issues as marksmanship wanes. I read an article once where the writer said, "If you can put two rounds on an index card at seven yards in one second then you can carry anything you want." I couldn't agree more.
Yes, you can have one stop shot capability with a .45, but how many assailants are going to be able to continue their assault after taking five rounds in the chest--even if it is just a .380? Not many! Besides, if your assailant is still standing now would be a good time to run.
There are always exceptions to every rule. Like the crack head that's so high he\she doesn't feel pain. I've seen films where a determined assailant will take thirteen rounds of .45ACP, or six rounds of .44 magnum, and still come up fighting. But, is a bazooka going to stop this guy? Probably not! And, you can't conceal a bazooka.
In closing, getting an accurate, reliable firearm from a major manufacturer with a good reputation, warranty, and a specific guarantee of accuracy, or from a smaller custom shop offering the same, is probably a better option than risking a purchase from an "unknown maker" or buying something off the shelf based on price alone. My first choice is Wilson Combat. Yes, custom guns are more expensive than stock guns, but they're worth it in the long run!
One final word BEWARE THE SALESMAN! This person has to make a living just like everyone else. His primary concern is to get his hands on your money before you walk out of his store. Don't just take my word for it. Give it a try for yourself and find out. Walk into any gun store and ask the salesman what's the best gun on the market? More than likely he'll tell you one of the guns offered for sale right here in front of you is the best; or any gun under this glass case is the best; or something else to that effect.
The point is the salesman doesn't make money by sending you someplace else. Thus, if he doesn't have the gun in stock he won't explain that even though Kimber is the best .45 for the money I don't stock them. He'll try and sell you a Smith & Wesson, Colt, Ruger, or whatever else he has in stock. Nor, is he likely to tell you that you'll be better off driving to the other side of town, or any other location for that matter, and buying from someone that does stock Kimber. Remember, the salesman isn't looking out for your best interest--you have to do that yourself! As a customer you must be knowledgeable about your subject matter, or rely on the integrity of every salesman you interact with.
This article may be reprinted for personal use only.
Copyright Chris Howland 2004
Why you'll never seen this article, or others like published in a magazine?
Ever wonder who has the last word when it comes to firearm recommendations? What if instead of Joe down at the end of the street you could ask the people that actually know what they'e talking about--like the firearm manufacturer. What if you could ask the President of one of our nation's Shooting Associations what firearm he recommends for his particular shooting discipline? More than likely you'd finally get the answer you've been looking for.
Even worse than asking Joe at the end of the street is the new shooter who relies on shooting magazines for useable information. As an amateur writer I know from personal experience the magazine's editor will not print anything other than a glowing report. For example, if my article says Kimber is #1, then I automatically offended all the other manufacturers. I had things explained to me this way: Manufacturer X may spend $100,000, while Y spends $50,000, and Z spends $20,000 a year advertising in my magazine. Thus, the editor will not risk offending his advertisers. It's easy to see where this is going. If the magazine has twenty, or perhaps even thirty advertisers, it stands to lose a lot of money.
What the editor wants from his writing staff is a well written advertisement that proclaims how wonderful the firearm is. The writer might talk about the firearm's fantastic balance or it's finish of brushed aluminum with walnut, teal, or other exotic grips. And, to make matters worse you have to be able to drag it out for three pages. If the article contains useful information that's OK, but it's not a requirement. Professional writers have to write what the advertisers want to hear. After reading my article see if you can tell the difference between the articles/advertisements found in most of the gun magazines and useful information. You'll never look at a magazine article the same way again.
This Article has been viewed 4,730 times. (Not updated in real-time.)
Top-level comments on this article: (1 total)Thomas, can I make a suggestion? That you break down an article of this length into lots of smaller ones.
We want your comments! If you can read this, you don't have javascript enabled, so you can't use this comment system. Please enable javascript.