Athlon Outdoors

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Gun Reivew: The Polish P-64 Pistol

The Polish P-64, which shares many characteristics with the Walther PP pistol, is chambered in 9x18mm Makarov. Shown with case-style holster and spare magazine.
Mak-2

The sights of the Polish P-64 pistol are quite rudimentary and basic, being made up of a simple post front and a notch rear sight assembly.

Polish P-64
Mak-3

Switching it up reveals a red dot and indicated the pistol is ready to fire when the trigger is pulled.

Red Dot
Mak-5

The P-64 features a slide-mounted safety system on the left side of the slide.

Slide Mounted Safety System
Mak-6

The P-64 features a short 3.3-inch barrel and is quite compact by military pistol standards. Note the hinged triggerguard.

P-64
Mak-7

The top strap of the pistol features a grooved channel for an improved sight picture. Note the loaded chamber indicator above the hammer.

Grooved Channel

As part of the “spoils of war” at the end of World War II, the Soviets took virtually all of the tooling from the Walther factory at Zella-Mehlis back to the Soviet Union, though some appears to have been used in East Germany for a time. The capture of the tooling and large numbers of Walther pistols during the war influenced the design of the Makarov pistol (by Nikolay Makarov) during the competition to replace the Tokarev TT-33. The greatest influence seems to have been the Walther Ultra, which was designed to take an intermediate round between the 9x17mm and 9x19mm. Many features of the Walther PP series were incorporated into the Makarov, and it was chambered for the 9x18mm Makarov round, which is similar to the 9x18mm Ultra round but not the same—the Makarov bullet is .365 and the Ultra bullet is .355. Also, the 9x18m Makarov case is longer and larger in diameter. Once the 9x18mm Makarov round became the standard service pistol load for the Soviet Union, within a few years other members of the Warsaw Pact adopted weapons in this chambering as well.

Some Soviet states, such as East Germany and Bulgaria, produced their own versions of the Makarov pistol, while others developed their own pistols chambered for the 9x18mm round. I became interested in these pistols years ago when I was working in places where I could sometimes acquire a 9x18mm pistol to carry. I often carried the pistol in a pocket, and one that I especially liked was the Polish P-64.

Developed in the late 1950s in response to a competition for a new service pistol by a team at the Polish Institute for Artillery Research, two versions of what would become the P-64 were developed. One was in 9x17mm (.380) caliber and one in 9x18mm Makarov caliber. The Model W, which was chambered for the 9x18mm round, had a longer barrel than the Model M chambered for the 9x17mm round. During the 1961 evaluation phase, however, the smaller Model M was selected but chambered in 9x18mm caliber. Designated the P-64, the pistol was produced at the Lucznik Arms Factory in Radom and entered service in 1965 as the 9mm pistolet wz. 1964. It replaced the Polish TT version of the Tokarev.

In design and function, the P-64 is similar to the Walther PPK, though some internals are different and are covered by a Polish patent. It is a double-action (DA) blowback design with a hammer-drop safety. As with the PPK, it incorporates a loaded-chamber indicator, which may be seen or felt. It is larger in diameter than that of the PPK and, hence, easier to see or feel. When chambering a round, the safety lever may be placed in the down position, which will lock the firing pin and disconnect the trigger bar. I always liked this feature as it allowed a round to be safely chambered without having to lower the hammer manually on a loaded chamber. As with the PPK, the slide locks open after the last round is fired and may be released by pulling it backwards and releasing it after a reload is completed or after removing the empty magazine. A bottom magazine release, which catches a protrusion on the rear base of the magazine, is used. Since the magazine has a finger rest hook, by catching this hook and depressing the magazine release button, the mag may be removed readily.

As with a PPK, the P-64 disassembles by pulling down on the triggerguard and lifting the slide off the rear of the frame. I’ve learned from many years of using PPKs that the easiest method is to pull the front of the triggerguard down and then press it slightly to the left under the frame using the trigger finger while pulling the slide to the rear and off. There has been corrosive 9x18mm ammunition sold in the U.S. so with any ammunition about which you are unsure, a good cleaning with hot water and GI bore cleaner is advised. Fortunately, today most 9x18mm ammunition encountered is non-corrosive.

Drawbacks

Since the magazine only holds six rounds, the grip of the P-64 is rather short. I have about medium-size hands, and I can barely fit three fingers over the grip plus finger rest. In fact, my little finger protrudes slightly over the finger rest. This raises one of my criticisms of the P-64. I like the fact it fires the more powerful 9x18mm round but in this pistol, recoil is definitely noticeable, especially since the hook of the finger rest cuts into my little finger when firing it. Once, when I was using a P-64 for a couple of weeks, I ground part of the plastic baseplate off to eliminate the finger rest. This allowed me to carry the P-64 in my pocket more readily and made it easier to shoot.

Another feature I do not like about the P-64 is its sights. Consisting of a tiny front blade and narrow rear notch, they are even more rudimentary than many PPKs I’ve used. During the Communist Era, the Poles remained surprisingly optimistic, as I have read that the sights were zeroed for 50 meters!

The final real negative feature of the P-64 is the heavy DA trigger pull. As with some other Warsaw Pact DA pistols, I believe there was intent here to make this an additional safety feature to prevent accidental/negligent discharges. I believe this is the heaviest DA pull I have encountered on a pistol—I’ve read from those who have measured it that it’s over 20 pounds, and I don’t doubt that. I have quite strong hands from years of exercising, and I have to exert substantial effort to pull the trigger. Any hopes of setting the trigger to get an accurate first round off are futile. Single-action (SA) pull, on the other hand, is mushy but relatively light. I think this is the only DA pistol I ever carried where I planned to cock it for the first round rather than using the DA. I understand from some who use the P-64 that if replacement hammer and recoil springs are obtained from Wolf Gunsprings, the DA pull will be improved and the recoil dampened to some extent. I have my P-64 as a reference pistol so I have kept it stock.

Eventually, the P-64 was replaced by the 9x18mm P-83 Wanad, which has a larger grip and 8-round magazine capacity, among other features. As its designation indicates, it came into service in 1983, but was replaced around 2000, the Polish army having adopted the 9x19mm WIST-94 pistol in 1997 to conform to the standard NATO pistol round after Poland became a member.

Carrying Methods

As with most Warsaw Pact pistols—and most European police or military pistols in general—the P-64 holster is of the encasement type with one built-in pouch for a spare magazine. There were exceptions among police agencies that encountered a lot of crime or faced serious terrorist threats, which inspired them to go with open top-flap holsters that allowed a faster draw. Given that Polish troops or police carrying the P-64 most likely would already have it in their hand when anticipating a threat, this holster sufficed and kept the pistol protected from the elements. Maybe it’s because the holster with my P-64 is virtually new, but it takes some real effort to stretch the tongue that snaps the flap shut to close it or to pull it free to open it. Even with a DA most users probably carried the chamber empty, a total of 12 rounds (one mag in the gun and one in the holster mag pouch) on the streets of Warsaw would have seemed scant to me, but I’m from St. Louis; I carry a pistol and a spare magazine to take the garbage out! After consideration, carrying the P-64 chamber empty and racking the slide to chamber a round before engaging was probably advisable given the horrible DA trigger pull.

Despite the fact that I am aware of problems with storing pistols or revolvers in their holsters, I usually oil up my pistols with this type of holster well and store them in the holster so I can keep holster, gun and spare magazine together. Of course, the safe I keep them is a humidity-controlled environment.

I’m pretty sure there was a shoulder holster available for the SB (Sluzba Bezpieczenstwa)—the Czech secret police—or for police investigators. In fact, I remember once when I was using a P-64, I had a shoulder rig that was of the cheap Eastern European style, but I don’t know if it was Polish issue.

Range Time

Although I have used some of the CorBon loads designed for self-defense, I do most of my 9x18mm shooting with Sellier & Bellot (S&B), non-corrosive 95-grain jacketed loads. I bought a case of this a couple of years ago and find it functions reliably and is accurate. I’ve probably fired 500 rounds or more through the P-64.

For this article, I took along a couple of boxes of the S&B loads. I didn’t really shoot for groups on bullseye targets, but instead put up various combat-training targets with silhouettes of various “evil” people. At 10 yards, when I loaded from Condition Three for the first round and fired SA, I was keeping all six rounds center of mass in 3 inches or so. At 15 yards, firing in the same manner, the group opened up to 4 to 5 inches. All were still good center-of-mass hits. When I fired the first round DA, the heavy pull usually pulled it high since I was straining so much against the trigger. I also fired at hanging plates and pepper poppers at ranges of 15 and 25 yards. Recoil was heavy enough that it took a bit of time to recover between shots.

Final Notes

Because a lot of them were imported and sold as cheaply at $200 or less, the P-64 became a very popular concealed-carry pistol for those who wanted a compact pistol that was effective but not too expensive. Other than the issue of the heavy trigger pull and the recoil, which could be a real problem with shooters who are inexperienced, I think the P-64 makes a reasonable concealed-carry choice.

To evaluate the P-64 in the environment for which it was designed, it should be understood that it was to serve as an “authority” pistol to designate someone with military or police command authority. It was also intended as a military weapon for those not on the front lines or possibly those operating a crew-served weapon. It carried easily and fired a relatively serious cartridge. At the close ranges for which it was intended, it would have had reasonable stopping power. And it would have given its users some sense of security—more so than had they been unarmed. Probably its greatest advantage was propinquity—it could always be there.

The post Gun Review: The Polish P-64 Pistol appeared first on Tactical Life.

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ROC Military: Taiwan’s Top Tier

An ROC Marine, armed with a T65K2 rifle, defends a beachhead from an elevated position while a radioman stays in contact with command.
ROC Military: Taiwan’s Top Tier

One of Taiwan’s special operations units stands in formation during a parade—possibly the Airborne Special Services Company or the ROC Military Police Special Service Company, since the HK MP5 and ballistic shield indicate their counterterrorist duties.
ROC Military: Taiwan’s Top Tier

ROC Military: Taiwan’s Top Tier
ROC Military: Taiwan’s Top Tier

Taiwanese special operations personnel stand in formation in full scuba gear. Their weapons appear to be M4 Carbines and T75K1 pistols.
ROC Military: Taiwan’s Top Tier

The semi-auto Barrett M82A1 provides the .50 BMG power and precision for ROC forces to disable enemy vehicles.
ROC Military: Taiwan’s Top Tier

When ROC Marines and special operations units need more firepower, they turn to the 5.56mm FN Minimi.
ROC Military: Taiwan’s Top Tier

The Glock 17 provides a reliable 9mm option for Taiwan’s elite special operators.

When the Chinese Communists under Mao defeated the Nationalist Chinese and took the mainland in 1949, Chiang Kai-shek retreated with his Nationalist government to the island of Taiwan and established what became the Republic of China (ROC). Since that time, the ROC has developed a successful economy and a democratic government. However, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has continued to claim that Taiwan is part of China. As a result, the ROC has remained under threat of attack by the PRC until the present day.

To understand the magnitude of this threat, consider that the population of the PRC is approximately 1.4 billion, while that of the ROC is approximately 23 million—less than 2 percent of the PRC’s. Making the threat even greater, the island of Taiwan is only about 140 miles from the Chinese mainland, while some of the ROC’s offshore islands are only about 10 miles from the mainland.

Protecting The Island

As a result, the ROC has about 290,000 active military personnel and 1.7 million reserves. At $10.7 billion, its military budget is the 20th largest in the world, but it’s still only about one-sixteenth that of the PRC. Currently, ROC troops are trained to counter an invasion, with smaller, more mobile units replacing large, traditional Army divisions. Great importance is placed upon the ROC’s amphibious units, which can strike behind the lines of an invader or protect Taiwan’s offshore islands.

“Should the People’s Republic of China decide to try to take Taiwan, ROC elite units will likely be their most serious opposition …”

Reportedly, ROC special operations personnel are trained especially to rapidly respond to a PRC attempt to seize the country through rapidly disrupting command and control. Scenarios that have been considered include an airborne assault on Taipei, Taiwan’s capital, as well as other major cities. A major objective would be the seizure of Songshan Airport so additional troops could be flown in from the mainland. In the capital, initial resistance to an airborne assault would fall primarily to the ROC Military Police, who provide security at government installations. The elite unit within the ROC Military Police is the “Nighthawks” Special Service Company. However, though the ROC MPs are considered solid units, they would soon be overwhelmed if not reinforced quickly.

To quickly counter such a threat, the ROC Army has a combined Aviation and Special Forces Command, units of which are highly airmobile. Special Operations Command incorporates various special operations battalions, which comprise the 862nd Special Warfare Brigade, often compared to the U.S. Army’s Rangers. Considered by many to be the most elite unit in the ROC Army is the 101st Recon Battalion, also known as the “Sea Dragon Frogmen.” Trained much like our U.S. Navy SEALs, this unit has personnel stationed on various offshore islands. The Army also has the Airborne Special Services Company (ASSC) with a counterterrorist mission similar to that of the U.S. Combat Applications Group (CAG), aka Delta Force.

As with the USMC, the entire ROC Marine Corps (ROCMC) is considered elite. The principal maneuver groups are three brigades supported by an Amphibious Armor Group. Within this group are Amphibious Transport Squadrons and Amphibious Artillery Squadrons. There is also the Amphibious Reconnaissance Group, which is considered to be the elite unit within the ROC Marines. Often compared to the U.S. Navy SEALs or USMC Recons, more than half of the 600 members of this unit are aboriginal Taiwanese, the original residents of the island who comprise about 2 percent of the ROC population. This would equate to the large number of Maoris who serve in the New Zealand SAS.

There is also reportedly a special tactics unit within the ROC Air Force. Little information is available about the unit, but presumably it would have similar missions to a USAF Special Tactics Squadron, including TACP and CSAR.

An interesting aspect of the selection process for the highly elite units, such as the ROCMC Amphibious Recon Group or the Army’s 101st Recon Battalion, is that much of the selection is carried out in teams. Although the first weeks of selection may be based on individual determination and fitness, after that the candidate becomes a member of a team with which he will succeed or fail. Teamwork is, of course, important for the small units of a special operations force, but it does not play as large a part in selection for many units as it does with the Taiwanese.

Top-Tier Weapons

Many of the weapons used by the ROC special operations units are produced in Taiwan. These include the T65, based on the ArmaLite AR-180 with M16 influence; the T86, an improved version of the T65 with some similarities to the M4 in appearance; and the T91, the latest improved version of the T65/86 assault rifles. Some special operations units also use the U.S. M4A1. Reportedly, the XT-97, a Taiwan-produced weapon that resembles the FN SCAR, is seeing some service with special operations units now.

“For anti-materiel missions, the Barrett M82A1 is used. Special operations units use the Glock 17 pistol as well as …the locally produced T75K1 version of the M9 …”

The primary submachine guns used by ROC elite units are the HK MP5A5 and Uzi. Their shotguns include the Benelli M1014 and the Franchi SPAS-12. Various sniper rifles are used, including the U.S. M24 sniper weapon system (SWS), the German DSR-1 bullpup rifle, the HK PSG-1 and the Swiss SSG 2000. For anti-materiel missions, the Barrett M82A1 is used. Special operations units use the Glock 17 pistol as well as possibly the locally produced T75K1 version of the M9 and the T51, a locally produced version of the 1911.

Heavier weapons used by the ROC special operations units and Marines include the FN Minimi and the T74, a locally produced version of the FN MAG. The U.S. M2 .50-caliber heavy machine gun is also used. Grenade launchers include the U.S. Mk19 Mod 3 as well as the drum-fed Milkor MGL. Operators also use the T85 grenade launcher with the T86 rifle.

ROC special operations units also use another interesting piece of equipment that has attracted a lot of attention: black ballistic face masks that give the operators the look of a robot but also offer protection against a close-range .44 Magnum round. Reportedly, they severely inhibit peripheral vision and see limited use.

The Republic of China’s special operators and Marines are well trained and well motivated. Should the People’s Republic of China decide to try to take Taiwan, ROC elite units will likely be their most serious opposition, but they will undoubtedly be outnumbered in the fight!

The post ROC Military: Taiwan’s Top Tier appeared first on Tactical Life.

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Blast From the Past: The Bren Light Machine Gun

Blast From the Past: The Bren Light Machine Gun
Blast From the Past: The Bren Light Machine Gun

The L4A4 variant of the Bren featured a wooden grip and stock as well as a tall rear sight that could be folded down to keep it from being damaged in the field.
Blast From the Past: The Bren Light Machine Gun

The magazine release is located just behind the magazine. Also note the wooden carry handle, which helped with barrel changes when it overheated.
Blast From the Past: The Bren Light Machine Gun

The protected front sight is mounted in an offset position, and the muzzle brake helped reduce muzzle rise between shots.
Blast From the Past: The Bren Light Machine Gun

The L4A4’s three-position selector switch is located on the left side of the receiver, just above the trigger.
Blast From the Past: The Bren Light Machine Gun

Designed for use by a right-handed shooter, the front and rear sights are offset to clear the Bren’s unique top-mounted magazine.
Blast From the Past: The Bren Light Machine Gun

The Bren’s wooden buttstock is designed specifically to allow for comfortable firing from a prone position.
Blast From the Past: The Bren Light Machine Gun

The cocking handle, mounted on the right side, folds down against the receiver so it won’t snag during transportation.

The Bren light machine gun entered service with Britain prior to World War II and served until the Falklands conflict. During that period, it gave fire support in two major wars—WWII and Korea—as well as various counterinsurgency conflicts. Its mission was to serve as a section automatic weapon that could be carried during an advance and deployed for close support. The Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR) served the same purpose in U.S. units, and the M249 squad automatic weapon (SAW) has this mission today. And, like the BAR, the Bren had its strengths and weaknesses.

The Bren Is Born

During the early 1930s, the British Army conducted competitive trails for a new light machine gun. Among those tested was the Madsen, which had an established combat record, since it had been used as early as the Russo-Japanese War, then in World War I and the Gran Chaco War prior to WWII. The U.S. BAR was also tested alongside the Vickers-Berthier, among others. However, it was the Czech ZB vz. 26 light machine gun that was eventually modified to suit British needs and licensed for production. One of the major changes was to modify the magazine, since ZB vz. 26 light machine guns were generally chambered for rimless cartridges such as the 7.92mm Mauser round, while the .303 British service round was rimmed. Other modifications included a shorter barrel, a recoil buffer and a lower cyclic rate of fire.

“The Bren light machine gun…gave fire support in two major wars—WWII and Korea—as well as various counterinsurgency conflicts.”

The Bren took its name from a combination of the first two letters of Brno, the Czech city where the original version had been developed, and Enfield, the location of the Royal Small Arms Factory. It uses a long-stroke gas piston system located under the barrel. A return spring is located in the butt. Additionally, the Bren is air-cooled, select-fire and has a quick-detachable barrel; normally two barrels were supplied with each Bren to allow a change if one got hot from continuous firing. Magazines feed into the top of the Bren, which necessitates sights that are slightly offset.

The sights work fairly well for a right-handed shooter firing from a prone position. It is possible to fire the Bren off-hand, but I always found it rather heavy for such usage. A left-handed shooter will not be able to position his head correctly to use the sights. On the 7.62mm NATO L4 Bren I shot while working on this article, the sights are quickly adjustable from 200 to 1,600 meters using a screw system. They seem to be precise, though I did not try firing at longer ranges. To keep them from being damaged when transporting the Bren, they fold down onto the top of the receiver. The cocking handle also folds against the receiver.

In addition to the sights, other features of the Bren are very well designed for firing while prone. The top-feed magazine allows the shooter to get low to the ground, and the ringed, paddle-type magazine release is easy to operate with the support hand. Another useful feature is the quite sturdy bipod, which positions the Bren solidly. The recoil buffer also helps quite a bit for firing from prone.

Combat Tactics

Experienced Bren gunners learned to fire the weapon from the hip, braced against the side to give fire support during an advance—“marching fire,” as the Brits termed it. This took quite a bit of arm strength. Although I haven’t read that Bren gunners were selected for size or strength, that has often been the case with light machine gunners. BAR operators were often above average size. A sling would have been of great value as well. I remember an acquaintance who had been a WWII Commando and Bren gunner. I’m 5’10” and weighed about 185 pounds at that time. In 1970s London, that usually put me a bit above average size, but the ex-Commando was at least 3 or 4 inches taller than me and had me by 30 pounds or more, and he was still in good shape. I have no doubt that he handled his Bren gun readily.

During combat in WWII, each Bren had a two-man team assigned: the gunner, who actually fired the weapon, and the loader, who carried extra spare magazines, a spare barrel and a tool kit. Of course, the loader was a fully trained gunner as well and could take over the weapon if the gunner went down. Other infantrymen would carry two Bren magazines along with their other kit to provide more firepower when needed. While the standard Bren magazine held 30 rounds, experienced operators did not load it all the way to enhance reliability. Another trick they learned was to load rimmed .303 rounds with each ahead of the previous round so that the rims did not overlap in such a way as to cause malfunctions. Operators also learned to turn the four-position gas regulator to allow for more gas when fouling built up from continuous firing.

Speaking of continuous firing, with a loader constantly supplying magazines, the Bren could get hot enough that it was necessary to change barrels, but that was not necessary except in heavy fighting. The relatively low cyclic rate of around 500 rpm also helped counter overheating, as did chrome-lined barrels supplied on some later Brens.

7.62mm Brens

The Bren remained in British service at least until the Falklands War, though, when the 7.62x51mm NATO was adopted as the standard battle rifle round along with the L1A1 version of the FN FAL rifle, Bren guns were converted to that caliber and designated as L4s. This necessitated a new bolt, barrel and magazine. The first production L4A1 Brens were converted from .303-caliber Mk3 Brens between 1955 and 1956. As the L4A1 Brens entered service, the need for modifications was discovered in the field, resulting in the L4A2 Bren. There were also L4A3 Brens, which were converted from the Bren Mk2. Finally, in 1960, the L4A4 went into service. It was supplied with two barrels, one of which was chrome-lined. This barrel would be used as the primary barrel since it would be more resistant to overheating.

L4 Brens can be easily recognized by looking at the magazine, which is straighter than the curved .303 magazine on earlier Brens. In fact, the L4 will take standard 20-round L1A1 magazines, though Bren gunners are issued 30-round magazines. These magazines will also fit the L1A1 rifle.

Almost all of the shooting I’ve done with the Bren has been with L4 version, as my contacts with the British armed forces did not start until the later 1960s. Since I am right-handed, I found the sights quite usable when firing from a prone position. By firing on semi-auto, I found that the sights allowed me to shoot accurately to at least 300 meters. I’m sure more skilled operators can do much better. I also found the Bren’s pistol grip comfortable and the sturdy bipod a real boon since I could pull or push against it without worry about it collapsing. I have seen Brens mounted on tripods but have never fired one mounted in this manner. I have also seen them mounted on the light armored “Bren Carrier” and other vehicles.

I could use low cover well due to the top-mounted magazine, though I have read that experienced Bren gunners learned to try to camouflage the magazine when in concealment, as it was quite noticeable. Magazine changes are also relatively easy with the support hand since the magazine release is located just behind the magazine atop the receiver. I have primarily fired the L4A4 using 30-round magazines, but I’ve also used L1A1 20-rounders a few times. I have been told that since the magazines feed downward, gravity will normally allow them to operate reliably.

Lasting Legacy

The Bren was replaced by the L108A1 and the L110A1 light machine guns (based on the FN Minimi) in the 1980s, when the L85A1 rifle in 5.56mm NATO replaced the L1A1. The Bren remained in service with some military units until the early 1990s. The Royal Marine Commandos carried the Bren as late as the Falklands War, as neither the L110A1 Para nor the L108A1 had yet gone into service. There’s a certain symmetry to that, as the World War II Commandos were among the best-known users of the Bren light machine gun. Since the L110A1 and L108A1 are lighter than the Bren, still incorporate a chrome-lined, quick-change barrel and use belts that allow for more sustained fire, this British version of the Minimi arguably offers an improvement over the Bren gun, which is, after all, a 1930s design.

It was a very good 1930s design, though—one that saw a lot of combat in both big wars and small wars with British armed forces and served with three-dozen or more countries. During WWII and Korea, as well as Malayan Emergency and the Mau Mau Uprising, British troops were armed with bolt-action rifles. As a result, the presence of a Bren gunner in a section who could lay down quite a bit of fire was a comfort. Today, the Bren light machine gun is an interesting piece of history, but for more than 50 years it played its part in making British infantry among the most effective in the world.

The post Blast From the Past: The Bren Light Machine Gun appeared first on Tactical Life.

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Gun Review: ArmaLite AR-30A1 in .338 Lapua Magnum

The AR-30A1 has several accuracy-enhancing features, including a chassis designed to help shooters get into an optimum firing position for first-round hits. Shown with a Leupold 6.5-20x50mm Mark 4 LR/T scope.
Gun Review: ArmaLite AR-30A1 in .338 Lapua Magnum

The Target chassis has plenty of rails for adding accessories as well as an adjustable buttstock with a recoil-absorbing buttpad.
Gun Review: ArmaLite AR-30A1 in .338 Lapua Magnum

Capping the 26-inch barrel is an effective dual-baffle muzzle brake, installed on 3/4x28 threading.
Gun Review: ArmaLite AR-30A1 in .338 Lapua Magnum

The AR-30A1 has several accuracy-enhancing features, including a chassis designed to help shooters get into an optimum firing position for first-round hits. Shown with a Leupold 6.5-20x50mm Mark 4 LR/T scope.
Gun Review: ArmaLite AR-30A1 in .338 Lapua Magnum

The AR-30A1’s safety is a lever similar to that used on the U.S. M1903 Springfield. Also note the well-designed bolt handle, which provides leverage but stays close to the receiver.
Gun Review: ArmaLite AR-30A1 in .338 Lapua Magnum

The AR-30A1 has several accuracy-enhancing features, including a chassis designed to help shooters get into an optimum firing position for first-round hits. Shown with a Leupold 6.5-20x50mm Mark 4 LR/T scope.
Gun Review: ArmaLite AR-30A1 in .338 Lapua Magnum

The AR-30A1 has several accuracy-enhancing features, including a chassis designed to help shooters get into an optimum firing position for first-round hits. Shown with a Leupold 6.5-20x50mm Mark 4 LR/T scope.

I’ve been using an ArmaLite AR-10 for years and have found it to be one of my favorite AR-type rifles. It offers reliability, accuracy and the 7.62mm NATO/.308 Winchester chambering—all good things. I have shot other ArmaLite rifles, but the AR-10 is the only one I own and the one with which I am most familiar. It’s important to broaden your horizons, however, so when I was assigned to evaluate the AR-30A1 in .338 Lapua Magnum, I was excited. Unfortunately, the rifle came in just when we here in the Midwest were having lots of snow and ice, so I could not get to the 500-meter range for many weeks due to ice and then mud. I have gotten there three times now—but more about that later.

RELATED: Armalite Defenders: Evolved, Modern-Day Rifles

First, let me state that I am a big fan of the .338 Lapua Magnum chambering for sniping rifles. This caliber has given snipers, especially those in special operations, a rifle that can range out past a mile yet is relatively portable. Don’t get me wrong, the sniper still has to be incredibly fit to hike into shooting position with a .338 Lapua, especially in mountainous terrain where the caliber has proven so deadly. The .338 Lapua rifle is a very effective long-range weapon. In fact, the current longest-range sniper kill is at 2,474 meters with a .338 Lapua rifle. Another advantage of the .338 Lapua Magnum is that under certain politically correct stipulations within the U.S. military, the .338 Lapua Magnum is an anti-personnel rifle that may used against enemy combatants, while the .50 BMG rifle is an anti-materiel rifle that may not be used against combatants in many situations. That’s a silly rule, but the .338 Lapua Magnum does the job just dandy!

Next-Gen AR-30A1

Unlike the other ArmaLite rifles that I have shot, the AR-30A1 is a bolt action. The bolt is long and sturdy with dual opposing locking lugs. The separate bolt head employs a plunger-type ejector. It cocks on opening. The lockup is tight enough that it takes a good slap up with the palm to release it and a slap down after running it forward to chamber a round. Although compared to some rifles, the safety seems almost like a World War II design used on the Springfield ’03 or other rifles, but I actually like it: Flicking it to the right puts it on “safe,” and the left is “fire.” This safety locks the firing pin to the rear when applied.

Probably the first thing most shooters will notice about the AR-30A1’ is its large muzzle brake with dual baffles. I’ve shot most of the current .338 Lapua Magnum sniping rifles and have found that a muzzle brake is a necessity. This brake is screwed on using 3/4×24 threads, the standard for many suppressors.

A utilitarian aluminum chassis that is bedded using a V-block keeps weight down and enhances accuracy, as does the free-floating, 26-inch barrel. ArmaLite offers two versions of the AR-30A1, Standard and Target models, and I received the latter for testing. The Target version features an adjustable cheekrest and buttpad to help tailor the rifle to the shooter, allowing them to get the best cheekweld. The cheekpiece allows 1 inch of vertical adjustment, while the length of pull may be adjusted from 13.6 to 15.6 inches.

The stock’s pistol grip is similar to those used on AR-type rifles. An interesting aspect of the buttstock is that it may be quickly removed with a hex wrench to reduce the overall length of rifle for carrying or storage. Interestingly, ArmaLite states that for firing from constricted cover, the AR-30A1 may be fired without the stock using the pistol grip and bipod, as the muzzle brake dampens recoil sufficiently to allow this. I believe them but would assume that would be for fairly close shots. I do plan to setup some hostage/hostage-taker targets at 100 yards and try shots using the AR-30A1 without the stock. My own preference would be a folding stock, as used on many .338 Lapua Magnum rifles to allow them to be carried more easily but quickly brought into action.

Other features include a single-stage trigger with a smooth, crisp pull and a five-round detachable magazine locked into place with a magazine release paddle that may be operated with either hand. This magazine is made of steel to prevent damage, and it has a single-stack design for reliable feeding. My rifle came with a low Harris bipod, and the magazine could be removed without lifting the rifle off of the ground or rest if it was tilted on the bipod. In regards to the bipod, the AR-30A1 has multiple sling mounting points so that a sling may be mounted with the bipod attached. This is a real boon, as carrying the AR-30A1 very far will require a sling. I did find that operating the magazine release was possible with either the thumb or trigger finger of the shooting hand. For durability, the AR-30A1 has military-grade hardcoat anodizing and phosphating.

Among the features specific to the Target version I tested is the 18-inch-long, 20-MOA Picatinny top rail, which allows for the mounting of night-vision devices along with a scope. Additional rails on the forend allow for the mounting of laser pointers or illuminators.

The AR-30A1 is also available in .300 Winchester Magnum. In this caliber, the barrel is 24 inches long as opposed to 26 inches, but its unloaded weight is 14.5 pounds. That seems too heavy to gain the 200 to 300 extra yards over a 7.62mm NATO rifle. However, the range of the .338 Lapua Magnum justifies the extra weight and length.

Glassing It Up

Since I do a lot of .338 Lapua Magnum rifle tests and am working on a book on these rifles, I have various scopes designed for long-range shooting. I chose to test the AR-30A1 using Leupold’s 6.5-20x50mm Mark 4 LR/T scope. I had the Leupold Custom Shop make an elevation dial for this scope graduated for 250-grain .338 Lapua loads and find it normally works very well. This scope also has an illuminated mil-dot reticle with which I am very familiar.

.338 Performance

ArmaLite states that the AR-30A1 offers 0.25- to 0.75-MOA accuracy at 300 yards. I believe that, as I shot groups of just over 3 inches at 300 yards.

ArmaLite describes the bolt’s operation as “lightning fast, butter smooth.” I agree that the bolt operation is smooth, but when releasing the bolt it is necessary to slap the handle up smartly with the palm and when locking it, or to slap the handle down with the palm. Since I like a solid lockup, that is a positive feature.

So far I’ve fired 80 rounds of Black Hills’ 250-grain JHP and 20 rounds of Black Hills’ 300-grain JHP through the AR-30A1. One of the most noteworthy aspects of this rifle is the light recoil. Normally, when testing a .338 Lapua rifle, I fire the first 20 rounds with no shoulder padding to get an idea of its recoil. Then, since I am normally shooting off of a bench or prone, I fire any remaining rounds in that session wearing a low-profile ScotteVest ballistic vest to cushion recoil. Recoil was so light on my first session that I fired 40 rounds with no padding. I did use the vest on the second session when I fired 20 rounds, but not on the third session when I fired the next 20 rounds. The AR-30A1’s very effective muzzle brake definitely helps dampen recoil. It does, however, increase sound quite a bit.

Overall, I’d rate the AR-30A1 quite well, and I expect to get the scope matched to the rifle more effectively with higher mounts before I shoot it again so I can try to hit 0.5 or 0.66 MOA. Another advantage of the AR-30A1 is that it is more reasonably priced than many other .338 Lapua precision rifles.

For more information, visit armalite.com or call 800-336-0184.

The post Gun Review: ArmaLite AR-30A1 in .338 Lapua Magnum appeared first on Tactical Life.

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Guns of the Elite: 160th SOAR Night Stalkers

The crew chief of a 160th SOAR MH-47 fires its M134 minigun.
Guns of the Elite: 160th SOAR Night Stalkers

Guns of the Elite: 160th SOAR Night Stalkers
Guns of the Elite: 160th SOAR Night Stalkers

A 160th SOAR MH-47 inserts USAF Special Tactics Squadron operators into the water.
Guns of the Elite: 160th SOAR Night Stalkers

U.S. Army Rangers ride the External Personnel Pods of an MH-6 Little Bird of the 160th SOAR.
Guns of the Elite: 160th SOAR Night Stalkers

U.S. Army Rangers prepare to fast-rope from a 160th SOAR MH-60.
Guns of the Elite: 160th SOAR Night Stalkers

160th SOAR crewmembers prior to a mission. Note that their Beretta M9s have lanyards affixed.

After the 1980 mission to rescue American hostages from Iran was aborted due to helicopter problems, the U.S. Army began developing a helicopter component structured and trained to support special operations. When officially activated in October 1981, it was designated the 160th Aviation Battalion. Many of the original personnel came from the 101st Airborne Division. Over the next decade, the unit would evolve and be designated the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), or SOAR, in May of 1990. From Operation Urgent Fury in 1983 through current operations around the world, the 160th SOAR has been involved wherever U.S. special operators have been committed. Long-range, low-level penetrations are a specialty of 160th SOAR crews.

The 160th SOAR has the mission of infiltrating behind enemy lines or into other denied territory to insert or extract U.S. or allied special operations personnel. SOAR helicopters may also be used for resupply, close air support or medical evacuation of special operations personnel.

Making The Cut

The 160th SOAR recruits among pilots who have completed at least one full tour after flight school. Its considered desirable for recruits to have flown 1,000 hours—100 of them using night-vision equipment—but it’s not required. Enlisted personnel are recruited from among those possessing the maintenance and other support skills needed in the 160th SOAR. Before being selected for the 160th SOAR, pilots attend a weeklong assessment at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, where physical, mental and emotional evaluations are given. Physical tests include swimming in full flight gear with a helmet.

“The 160th SOAR has the mission of infiltrating behind enemy lines or into other denied territory to insert or extract U.S. or allied special operations personnel.”

Officers and enlisted personnel assigned to the 160th SOAR must first be assigned to the training unit: Green Platoon. Enlisted personnel undergo five weeks of training and officers attend eight months’ worth. Among the skills covered are CQB with weapons, hand-to-hand combat, escape and evasion, survival on land and in the water, and other useful skills for personnel who will be flying dangerous missions. Many members of the 160th SOAR will attend airborne and air assault schools. Since the 160th SOAR specializes in flying low and at night, pilots spend much of their initial training time sharpening these types of skills. By the time they join their operational battalion they have earned the right to be called “Night Stalkers.”

The 1st and 2nd Battalions of the 160th SOAR are based at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, as is the Training Company, while the 3rd Battalion is based at Hunter Field, Georgia. In 2005, a fourth battalion was formed at Fort Lewis, Washington. There are also companies assigned to Southern Command and at times Pacific Command, and elements are assigned to work with the Combat Applications Group (Delta) on anti-terrorist missions. During the Global War on Terror, elements of the 160th SOAR were based in Iraq and Afghanistan.

This is a general look at 160th SOAR organization. In actuality, companies will be organized to fit the missions and operational area of those operators they support. Although U.S. Navy SEALs have their own helicopter support, 160th SOAR sometimes works with them as well. In fact, 160th SOAR pilots learn to carry out operations from aircraft carriers. Probably the best-known operation carried out by the 160th SOAR with the SEALs was the May 2011 raid on Osama bin Laden’s compound. Reportedly, special stealth versions of the Black Hawk helicopter were used on the raid.

Taking Flight

The 160th SOAR operates three types of helicopters. Perhaps the one most familiar to many readers is the MH-6 or AH-6 Little Bird. The MH-6s are the small gunships used so effectively in the Battle of Mogadishu and shown in the film Black Hawk Down. The MH-6 is a light utility helicopter modified to transport up to six troops on outboard “benches” along its sides. At least some MH-6s incorporate forward-looking infrared radar (FLIR) systems for night operations and intelligence gathering. The MH-6 may be configured for fast-roping and STABO (Stabilized Body) operations. The MH-6’s minimal size allows it to insert small teams of operators directly onto buildings or other targets. The small size also makes it easily deployable by transport aircraft; a C-141 can transport six Little Birds and a C-130 can transport three. Within 15 minutes of unloading them, the helicopters are mission ready.

The AH-6J is the light attack version of the Little Bird and can be armed with a selection of 7.62mm miniguns, 70mm rocket pods, .50-caliber machine guns, Hellfire missiles, 30mm cannons or Stinger air-to-air missiles. An enhanced MH-6M version is due to become the standard Little Bird attack helicopter by 2015. Many 160th SOAR AH-6 pilots were formerly Cobra pilots who find the AH-6’s ability to use diving fire to get up close and personal with their targets a real rush.

The 160th SOAR also uses three types of MH-60 Black Hawk helicopters. The MH-60K is a special operations utility helicopter that incorporates aerial refueling capability, advanced survivability equipment and improved navigation systems to allow for accurate flying in bad weather or other adverse conditions. The MH-60L is another utility version designed for special operations, while the MH-60L Direct Action Penetrator (DAP) version is designed to offer fire support to operators or carry out strike missions. Weapons with which the MH-60L DAP may be equipped include 30mm chain guns and M134D Gatling guns. The latter may be operated as fixed, forward-firing weapons or as door guns. The helicopter can also deploy precision-guided munitions. The MH60L DAP can carry out armed infiltration missions and can also act as an armed escort for other 160th SOAR helicopters. As with other 160th SOAR MH-60s, the MH-60L version can operate in all types of weather and over rough terrain due its sophisticated radar and other navigation aids.

The heaviest 160th SOAR helicopter is the MH-47G Chinook, an upgraded version of the MH-47E. The MH-47D is designated the “Adverse Weather Cockpit” version and is designed for use in all types of weather. The MH-47D or E variant may be used to insert a substantial number of operators at one time by landing or hovering, fast-roping or parachute insertions. The heavy lift capability also allows the MH-47 to carry out sling operations to deliver or remove equipment. The MH-47E incorporates many redundant avionics systems for survivability on missions. It may also be aerially refueled. Both MH-47s may be equipped with a fast-rope insertion/extraction system, an internal rescue hoist, an external rescue hoist and an external cargo hook. Both have FLIR and other sophisticated navigation systems. The MH-47G, which will replace many 160th SOAR birds over the next few years, includes enhanced avionics and navigation equipment as well as better hardening and M134 miniguns and M240D machine guns to give it more firepower.

To aid in survivability, larger SOAR helicopters may be equipped with an active-radar Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS) coupled with an air-launched countermeasures dispenser to dump chaff and flares. High on the wish list of items that will enhance survivability are an acoustic detection system to alert aircrews if they are being engaged by small arms; better, lightweight ballistic protection for personnel and critical components; and better cockpit protection.

Mission-Ready 24/7

Pilots and crewmembers of the 160th SOAR have sophisticated night-vision goggles and systems and high-tech navigation systems. Pilots can navigate precisely to their objective in total darkness flying nap-of-the-earth. Their aircraft have survivability packages and their own defensive firepower. Nevertheless, 160th SOAR crews operate in dangerous situations in areas controlled by the enemy. As a result, they must be trained to fight or escape and evade should their bird go down.

In the past, 160th SOAR crewmembers were armed with HK MP5K submachine guns that they carried in special Eagle Industries quick-release thigh holsters, often with a piece of paracord tied to the stock and also affixed to the webbed gear. Just drawing the submachine gun and thrusting it towards a target would deploy the stock. Normally one of the short 15-round magazines was carried in the MP5K. A spare magazine pouch carrying four magazines was carried on the opposite thigh. However, 160th SOAR pilots now carry the same weapons as many of the operators with whom they work—an M9 pistol and an M4 Carbine. Often, 160th SOAR crewmembers do their firearms training along with the Rangers or Special Forces with whom they work and achieve quite a high level of competency.

SOCOM operators are trained to carry out a wide range of missions behind enemy lines and in dangerous circumstances. However, a good portion of the time they have to be inserted and extracted to carry out those missions. Many times, the extraction can be particularly difficult. That’s why the motto of the 160th SOAR is “Night Stalkers Don’t Quit.”

The post Guns of the Elite: 160th SOAR Night Stalkers appeared first on Tactical Life.

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Sig Sauer's SIG556R Is Built on Reliability, Versatility

The SIG556R offers SIg Sauer quality, a cleaner-running piston system and the ability to shoot 7.62x39mm ammo. Shown with a Leupold 3-9x40mm Mark AR scope.
Sig Sauer's SIG556R Is Built on Reliability, Versatility

With the Swiss-style stock folded to the right side, the carbine is a compact 26 inches long yet is still capable of firing.
Sig Sauer's SIG556R Is Built on Reliability, Versatility

The 16-inch-long, nitrided barrel has a 1-in-9.5-inch twist rate and is capped with a standard birdcage-style flash suppressor.
Sig Sauer's SIG556R Is Built on Reliability, Versatility

The SIG556R features a gas regulator that may be turned to the standard position as shown or to a more open position for better functioning when the gun is very dirty or in cold, icy conditions.
Sig Sauer's SIG556R Is Built on Reliability, Versatility

The SIG556R features an ambidextrous safety that may be turned to the standard position as shown or to a more open position for better functioning when the gun is very dirty or in cold, icy conditions.
Sig Sauer's SIG556R Is Built on Reliability, Versatility

The SIG556R’s easy-to-reach charging handle and bolt release are positioned on the right side.
Sig Sauer's SIG556R Is Built on Reliability, Versatility

In testing, the 7.62x39mm SIG556R worked with both polymer and steelAK-style magazines, and it fed every round, Russian or American, reliably.

The SIG550 series of rifles has been among my favorites ever since I got a chance to shoot an early SIG540 in Switzerland some 30 years ago. The Swiss adopted the rifle as the Stgw 90 and marketed the civilian SIG550 and even scarcer SIG551 in semi-auto versions, which were imported into the U.S. in limited numbers. Currently, my original SIG550 spends most of its time in the safe while I shoot the current production SIG551-A1. In fact, after purchasing the SIG551-A1, I decided that I would stop acquiring SIG550 series rifles. Then, the SIG556R came along.

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The SIG556R has the same ergonomics and stock as my SIG551-A1, but it is chambered in the less expensive 7.62x39mm Russian caliber, hence the “R” in the designation. At first thought, the primary advantage of the SIG556R would be the ability to shoot less expensive ammunition. I just did a quick Internet check and found 1,000 rounds of steel-cased, non-corrosive 7.62x39mm ammo for $275. By comparison, I found 1,000 rounds of brass-cased, 55-grain 5.56x45mm for $370. However, steel-cased 5.56x45mm ammo is available for about $275 as well, so I could run that in my SIG551-A1 for about the same price as using the SIG556R using steel-cased ammo. On the other hand, the extractor in my SIG551-A1 is not designed for steel-cased ammunition, which might cause problems. I stick to brass-cased ammo for my 5.56x45mm weapons. In fact, the only weapons in which I shoot steel-cased ammo are those in 7.62x39mm, 5.45x39mm and 9x18mm Makarov, as they were designed for steel-cased ammo.

Versatile Sig

The shooter who wants one rifle to perform an array of tasks might find the SIG556R the perfect choice. Admittedly, he or she could probably find another cheaper rifle in 7.62x39mm, but it wouldn’t be a Sig. A SIG556R could be used for hunting most North American game and would also be a good self-defense or preparedness rifle. A case of 7.62x39mm ammo would allow the owner to fire a few hundred rounds to get to know the rifle and still have a good ammo supply on hand. Oh, and speaking of the supply of ammunition, purchasing a few spare magazines will be relatively inexpensive, as the SIG556R takes standard AK-47 magazines. One other point related to the SIG556R’s value for a one-rifle shooter is that it comes with a Sig Sauer Mini Red Dot sight.

SIG556 SERIES

I managed to talk myself into ordering a SIG556R. It is an American-made derivative of the Swiss Stgw90 military rifle and uses the same long-stroke gas piston system with an AK-type, two-lug rotating bolt. Instead of the solid round piston of the SIG550/Stgw90, the SIG556 uses a fluted or X-shaped piston, which many experts consider not just lighter but also stronger. It also easier to remove carbon buildup with this design. Another improvement with the SIG556 is the use of a two-strand braided return spring as opposed to a single spring on the SIG550. Both the SIG550 and SIG556 use a gas compression chamber that houses the piston and return spring. A two-stage gas regulator at the front of the gas cylinder can be used to adjust the gas pressure. Normally, this regulator may be turned with your fingers, but occasionally I have inserted the tip of a cartridge to move it. Generally, the lowest setting will work, but occasionally, if I have been really shooting a lot without cleaning the rifle, I have had to adjust it to the more open position for reliability. The more open position may also be used in cold, icy conditions. Normally, though, using the gas system’s “overpressure” setting should be avoided.

The SIG556 has a chamber surrounded by more steel than many rifles, which reduces stress from firing a substantial number of high-powered rounds. SIG556 barrels are button rifled. The rifle also comes with a beefier firing pin, meaning there’s less chance it’ll fracture with use and leave the SIG556 inoperable.

Although earlier SIG556s had an AR-type stock, most now have the SIG550 style of side-folding stocks. These are, in my experience, the most comfortable folding stocks I’ve used—they feel as comfortable and solid as a fixed stock. SIG556 rifles also use the ambidextrous safety switch of the SIG550 and its paddle magazine release, which is easily reached with either hand. The cocking handle is well designed for operation with either the shooting hand or support hand while reaching under the receiver (with the left hand). It is also large enough that a boot may be used to kick the action open to extract a stuck case. In regards to that, the SIG556R has a good-sized, sturdy extractor. The rail on top of the receiver allows for the mounting of a wide array of optical sights or the excellent Sig Sauer diopter drum rear sight.

AK Hybrid

Because of the 7.62x39mm chambering, the SIG556R has some different features. Its magazine well is designed to take rock-in AK magazines rather than M16 magazines. I tried an array of AK magazines—polymer and steel—and they all inserted and fed reliably. I also tried a 40-round RPK magazine, which worked as well. An RPK drum will not work, as the SIG556R’s magazine well is not deep enough. The Russian, Bulgarian, Hungarian and Chinese military AK-47 mags all worked well with the test rifle.

A couple of other comments on magazines and the SIG556R: As is typical with rifles using AK magazines, the bolt does not remain open after the last round is fired. Also, the current generation of SIG556R rifles is designed to handle steel AK magazines without excessive wear or problems with solid retention.

Another adaption for the 7.62x39mm round is a heavier hammer spring to reliably ignite heavier primers in non-U.S. loads. This feature does adversely affect the usually crisp SIG556 trigger pull, but it is still better than many rifles I’ve reviewed. To stabilize the 7.62x39mm bullet, the SIG556R’s barrel has a 1-in-9.5-inch twist rate. The 16-inch barrel is nitrided, a heat-treating process that diffuses nitrogen into the surface of the metal to harden it and make it very corrosion resistant. The SIG556R’s piston is nitrided as well, and that is another part that is susceptible to corrosion with corrosive ammunition.

This brings up the question of corrosive ammunition. I fired up the last of my corrosive 7.62x39mm ammo a few years ago in my Norinco AK-47 and have since purchased Russian ammo billed as non-corrosive for most shooting. Definitely, if corrosive ammo is used in the SIG556R or any other rifle, it should be thoroughly cleaned with boiling hot water. I then use World War II-surplus GI bore cleaner followed by oiling.

As mentioned, the SIG556R comes with a very nice little Sig Mini Red Dot sight. I did not test the rifle with it, as I wanted to try it at distances farther than I normally use a red dot (i.e., 50 yards). Instead, I mounted Leupold’s 3-9x40mm Mark AR MOD 1 scope with a FireDot-G (Green) Tactical Milling Reticle (TMR). Since I value the SIG556R’s versatility, I wanted a sight that would let me shoot out to 500 yards or more as well as up close for CQB set on 3X magnification. I can do this by turning on the green dot of the illuminated reticle.

Range Report

I have found the most accurate 7.62x39mm ammunition I’ve tried to be CorBon’s 123-grain DPX, but I am out of it right now. In fact, the only 7.62x39mm I have is Brown Bear 123-grain and Golden Tiger 124-grain ammunition, both of which I ordered in case lots before ammo got so expensive. Although this made maximizing the SIG556R rifle’s accuracy more difficult, I felt it made sense to test the rifle with ammunition that I would use to shoot it most of the time, as will most others. I think most of us will keep a few boxes of U.S. ammunition, such as CorBon’s, around but will do most of our practice with steel-cased Russian loads or perhaps some of the surplus ammo that is still around.

Since it was easier to get at the Golden Tiger, I loaded the magazines I took along with me, including four 30-rounders and one 40-rounder, plus an extra box or two for loading into a five-round magazine for zeroing the scope. The SIG556R fed and extracted all of the rounds reliably. The only groups I shot were at 100 yards, and the better ones ran in the 2.5- to 3.5-inch range. Based on my experience with this ammo in other rifles, I was satisfied with that. Since I shoot Sig Sauer rifles a lot, I found the ergonomics of the safety and mag release familiar. I also found the stock comfortable, though I did find that I had to move the scope forward slightly to get the best cheekweld/eye relief combo. A cheekpiece is available for Sig Sauer stocks that often helps improve your cheekweld.

I most definitely like the SIG556R. Right now, I have a better supply of steel-cased Russian 7.62x39mm ammo than I do of 5.56x45mm ammo. As a result, the SIG556R will become the Sig I take to the range most often.

There is a good argument to be made for the SIG556R for the shooter who wants a do-anything centerfire rifle.

For more information, visit sigsauer.com or call 866-345-6744.

The post Sig Sauer’s SIG556R Is Built on Reliability, Versatility appeared first on Tactical Life.

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Gun Review: UTAS UTS-15 Marine 12 Gauge

With its blue camouflage finish, breaching choke, laser/light, 15-round capacity and more, the bullpup-style UTS-15 Marine is an impressive-looking shotgun with the reliability and performance operators need on the high seas.
Gun Review: UTAS UTS-15 Marine 12 Gauge

The UTS-15’s high capacity and fast-operating slide action allow operators to quickly engage multiple targets at one time with a variety of tactical loads.
Gun Review: UTAS UTS-15 Marine 12 Gauge

The shotgun comes with fixed front and rear sights, a straight-line stock, large sling swivels and a thick buttpad to help absorb recoil.
Gun Review: UTAS UTS-15 Marine 12 Gauge

Each magazine tube has a follower that, when pressed, locks it and prepares it for feeding seven 2¾-inch shells or six 3-inch shells.
Gun Review: UTAS UTS-15 Marine 12 Gauge

The AR-type safety is located just above the pistol grip on the left side of the UTS-15 shotgun for ease of operation.
Gun Review: UTAS UTS-15 Marine 12 Gauge

The breaching choke offers a useful standoff device, and the light/laser below it operates via a switch on the right side of the gun.

Warships have a wide array of weapons that can be used against attackers, but merchant ships and private yachts are far more limited. Let me add the caveat that when I was doing private protective work I saw yachts equipped with heavy machine guns that could chop most attacking craft to pieces, but that was the exception.

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Normally, the merchant vessel or yacht will rely on three types of weapons to counter attackers. Instead of the machine gun, an anti-materiel rifle such as a Barrett .50 can be used to keep attackers at a distance by targeting their engine, hull or other vulnerable areas. Wind can affect the point of impact substantially at sea, so a heavier bullet is better as well. Personnel can also be picked off at a distance. In this scenario, shooters usually find a good shooting position that is least sensitive to the ship’s movement and allows them to fire from a rest or bipod for such longer-range shooting.

For engaging pirates as they approach a vessel, a select-fire battle rifle becomes more useful for providing continuous fire. Although the M4 seems to be widely used, I normally recommend one of the AR-type rifles in .308 Winchester/7.62mm NATO for greater striking power and to do more damage to the pirate craft. Normally, to allow for movement of the two vessels, body shots on the pirates are preferable.

Finally, to actually engage pirates who are boarding or have boarded the ship or yacht, the shotgun is very useful. Not only does it unleash a lot of lethal buckshot fast, but the shotgun will be less likely to damage critical gear aboard the vessel being defended. The primary problem with shotguns used in maritime security, however, is magazine capacity. After the order to “Repel boarders!” there isn’t a lot of time for reloads. That’s where the UTS-15 Marine from UTAS becomes relevant.

Ocean Thunder

The UTS-15 takes its designation from its joint design/production origins—“U” for U.S.A., where it was designed by Ted Hatfield, and “T” for Turkey, where some of the parts are manufactured. The “S” is for shotgun, and the “15” represents the cartridge capacity. And cartridge capacity is one of the big selling points for the UTS-15. Let me digress on that point for a minute. Traditionally, higher cartridge capacity for shotguns has meant longer tubes and longer barrels. Hence, higher cartridge capacity has meant less handiness. Box-magazine-fed shotguns can have shorter barrels, but to get even a seven- or eight-round capacity, the magazine becomes so long that it will catch on doorways or other projections. Drums for shotguns can increase cartridge capacity without becom-ing too unwieldy. Currently, though, the solution that combines cartridge capacity with handiness best is the use of multiple tubes.

“I fired two rounds of Federal’s 3-inch #4 buckshot, which chopped up an OPSGEAR Osombie target really well with a pattern measuring 12.25 by 13.5 inches.”

That’s what the UTS-15 does. It has twin feed tubes combined with what appears to be a bullpup design. I say “appears to be” because, by definition, a bullpup rifle has the action and magazine behind the trigger group. That is not the case with the UTS-15, as the magazine tubes are forward. But it looks and handles much as a bullpup.

With the UTS-15 feed system, each of the dual feed tubes, which are located above and on each side of the bore, holds seven 2¾-inch shells or six 3-inch shells. There is a selector lever atop the shotgun that can be set in the middle to allow alternate feeding from each tube or on the right or left sides to feed only from that tube. Using the selector to feed from only one tube at a time allows you to load one tube with buckshot and the other with slugs or some other combination. Loading is accomplished via two ports, one on each side. You open the loading port cover and push the follower forward against a spring to lock it in place while shells are loaded. When the port is closed, a shell pops back into the loading chamber ready to feed. If the full 15-round capacity is desired, after the first shell is loaded, that tube may be topped off.

Unlike some of the other high-capacity, multiple-tube shotguns, the UTS-15 is a pump action. As with any pump shotgun, it is important to operate the action fully by pulling it to the rear smartly and thrusting it forward smartly to feed the shell and lock the action. When using 3-inch shells I found it especially important to pull the forearm back smartly to ensure ejection of the spent shell.

Because of the relatively complicated loading drill, checking that the UTS-15 is unloaded requires a couple of extra operations. First, the action should be opened and the chamber checked to be empty. Then, each of the loading port doors should be opened to check that the loading chambers are empty. Finally, the top of the stock may be opened to look once again to ensure that a round is not present anywhere in the action. It’s easier and faster than it sounds. Opening the top of the stock also allows easy access to clear a malfunction should one occur.

Range Ready

The barrel is threaded to accept chokes designed for Beretta shotguns, allowing some choice in what choke to use with the UTS-15. It comes standard with a cylinder-bore choke that fits flush inside the barrel. However, I chose the optional ported cylinder-bore breaching choke, to be honest, because I like the way it looks. UTAS recommends against firing the UTS-15 without a choke in place.

The UTS-15’s controls are quite ergonomic. The safety is on the left side of the receiver like an AR-15’s, and it operates similarly. On the right side of the receiver is another switch that operates the green laser/white light located under the barrel. Down turns on just the laser and up activates both the white light and laser. This laser can be adjusted for both windage and elevation with an Allen wrench, but the white light itself cannot be adjusted. On the bottom of the synthetic stock is a button that releases the slide manually. A flip-up dust cover similar to an AR-15’s is on the right side of the receiver. I would recommend keeping it closed to keep debris, dust, etc., from getting into the action. The triggerguard has also been squared and is large enough for operators to use the shotgun while wearing gloves.

A Picatinny top rail allows users to mount optics and sights. I usually use a red dot, often one of the miniature models, on shotguns, but the optional iron sights for the UTS-15 are sufficient, so I used them for all of my testing. The rear has a flip-up ghost ring/V-notch that is adjustable for windage. Since I use ghost-ring sights on a lot of my shotguns, I chose that option. The front post sight is adjustable for elevation. After firing only three patterns, I had them adjusted for 25 yards.

The UTS-15 has a well-designed pistol grip with finger grooves. Generally, bullpup-type weapons do not lend themselves well to extensive carry, though the pistol grip helps. The UTS-15 has sturdy sling swivels mounted on the side.

Rounds Downrange

So far I’ve fired over 90 rounds through the UTS-15 in three sessions. I used Winchester GI overrun 00 buckshot, Federal Tactical low-recoil 00 and #4 buckshot, Winchester low-recoil 00 and #4 buckshot—all in 2¾-inch shells. I also used 3-inch Federal #4 buckshot.

I used an assortment of targets—some zombies, since we know fast-firing shotguns are good zombie killers—and some bad guys with guns. I started off firing 2¾-inch Winchester low-recoil 00 buckshot at 15 yards. For my testing I wanted to see how fast loading from alternate tubes was, so I fired two rounds with the selector set in the center for dual feeding. The two rounds on a zombie target were low, but the pattern was good and would have chopped the zombie into two half-zombies.

Also at 15 yards, I fired two rounds of Federal’s 3-inch #4 buckshot, which chopped up an OPSGEAR Osombie target really well with a pattern measuring 12.25 by 13.5 inches. I had adjusted for windage and elevation prior to firing these rounds, so the pattern was well centered in the chest.

At 25 yards, I tried two rounds of Federal’s 2¾-inch Tactical #4 buckshot on an OPSGEAR bad guy with a gun target. The pattern was a little to the left but only stretched 14 inches. I adjusted the windage an additional two clicks, and the second pattern at 25 yards was well centered.

In addition to firing half a dozen patterns on paper, I fired another 80 to 90 rounds at plates at distances from 15 to 35 yards to evaluate the UTS-15’s handling. I mostly fired with the selector set to alternate barrels, but I did do a couple of runs with it set to feed from the right tube, then shifted to the left tube when it was empty. It was a bright sunny day, so I did not get a chance to figure out the laser’s point of impact. The trigger pull was pretty good, which means that I did not notice it being especially heavy. Of course, as expected, the recoil was light given the low-recoil loads. There was more recoil with the 3-inch loads, but shooting wasn’t uncomfortable. I like the sights. They are easy to acquire and can be readily adjusted. Windage is click adjustable and elevation can be adjusted by inserting a screwdriver in the slot atop the front post. As I mentioned earlier, it is important with the UTS-15 shotgun to work the slide with some force when pulling the forearm back and pushing it forward to ensure optimum reliability. This is especially true if you’re working with 3-inch shells.

More Firepower

The UTS-15 Marine is definitely distinctive. For those who want a less “distinctive” look than the model I tested, the UTS-15 is available in black, olive drab, Flat Dark Earth/desert and some other finishes. With an MSRP of $1,650, the UTS-15 is not a cheap shotgun, but it is a lot of shotgun for the price.

For more information, visit utas-usa.com or call 847-768-1011.

The post Gun Review: UTAS UTS-15 Marine 12 Gauge appeared first on Tactical Life.

The VP70 was the first polymer-framed pistol ever made.

When the Heckler & Koch VP70 was introduced in 1970, it was very innovative—probably too innovative for the market. Incorporating a polymer frame, a double-action-only (DAO) trigger system and an impressive magazine capacity of 18 rounds, the VP70’s features are now common on many contemporary pistols. However, the revolutionary design was considered a curiosity in its time because it was the first polymer-framed pistol ever made, 12 years before the Glock.

RADICAL FIREPOWER

Lesser known was Heckler & Koch’s burst-fire VP70M, or “military,” version, which functions as a standard semi-automatic pistol unless its holster/stock is attached at the rear, allowing it to function in three-shot burst mode using a selector switch on the stock.

Because I’ve worked with close-protection teams that use machine pistols, such as the VP70, I’ve tried to become familiar with this type of weapon. With the stock attached, the VP70 is controllable in burst-fire mode; however, the holster does not work well for concealed carry. HK also offered a special sling that allowed the VP70 to be carried across the chest.

Today, the VP70M is rarely encountered in use, though some VP70Zs are still used or reside in autopistol collections. Mostly, though, it is an interesting link in the chain of modern pistol development.

To learn more about the VP70 and other Heckler and Koch pistils, visit hk-usa.com.

Specifications: HK VP70
Caliber: 9mm Barrel: 4.6 inches OA Length: 8 inches
Weight: 28.9 ounces (empty)   Grips: Polymer
Sights: Fixed   Action: Semi-auto (VP70Z); select-fire (VP70M)
Finish: Matte black   Capacity: 18+1

The post Heckler & Koch’s Historic VP70 appeared first on Tactical Life.

U.S. Army Rangers ride the External Personnel Pods of an MH-6 Little Bird of the 160th SOAR.

Special operators who were involved in the Battle of Mogadishu agree that, without 160th SOAR Little Birds’ ability to hunt at night, many of them would not have made it out of the bloody city. The battle in October of 1993 started as a snatch of warlord Mohamed Farrah Aidid but ended as a battle for survival against thousands of his armed militia supporters.

RELATED: Guns of the Elite: 160th SOAR Night Stalkers

The 160th SOAR had both Black Hawks and Little Birds available for the operation—a total of 16 helicopters. During the initial assault on one of Aidid’s headquarters, four AH-6J Little Birds, each carrying four snipers, two per side, and armed with 7.62mm miniguns and 70mm rockets, hovered in front and back of the building for overwatch and fire support. Two other AH-6Js brought in the Delta assaulters who fast-roped onto the building. Rangers fast-roped from Black Hawk helicopters to secure the city block around the building. Two dozen of Aidid’s lieutenants were captured and extracted in trucks by the Rangers.

However, 37 minutes into the mission, a Black Hawk helicopter was shot down. Ranger and Delta operators on foot immediately headed for the downed chopper to extract any survivors. Once the Rangers had secured the crash site, though tenuously, a Little Bird came in to extract two survivors. The Rangers and Delta operators, however, became pinned down by enemy fire near the crash site. Making things even more difficult, a second Black Hawk was shot down at another location.

FIGHTING BY NIGHT

Cut off near the crash site, the Rangers and Deltas were constantly attacked that night. However, the Little Birds flew mission after mission, making gun runs and killing hundreds of Somali militiamen. The 160th SOAR pilots and crew were about the only personnel at Mogadishu that had night-vision goggles (NVGs), and they used them to good effect. Little Bird passes were so close that Rangers remember the spent brass hitting their helmets like rain. When the Little Birds were out of ammo, they would often keep making passes so that enemy combatants would stay behind cover. In addition to gun runs, the Little Birds would drop ammo, medical supplies and even a few NVGs.

When the relief force arrived, Little Birds continued to fly overwatch as the Americans were extracted from the chaos. Many current 160th SOAR tactics evolved form lessons learned in Somalia, and U.S. special operators learned not to go into combat in the future without NVGs and a plentiful supply of water. The 160th SOAR has two mottos: “Night Stalkers Don’t Quit” and “Death Waits in the Dark.” They proved both during the Battle of Mogadishu.

The post Black Hawk Down: 160th SOAR Rescue appeared first on Tactical Life.

One of my favorite concealment pistols has always been the Walther PPK, and, yes, at least a little of that fondness stems from reading James Bond novels as a youth. Mostly, though, it has always proven to be a reliable pocket pistol. Unfortunately, I have mixed emotions about my favorite PPK. It is a PPK-L (“L” for lightweight), which I carried in a pocket or an ankle holster on close protection jobs where I was limited to a .32 caliber pistol or forced to use it as a backup. That “.32” part was the problem as the PPK-L has an alloy frame and Walther chose not to chamber it for the .380 cartridge.

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In addition, I have to admit that I thought a 9x18mm PPK would be quite nice, and I even thought it would be better if it had an alloy frame. It would be light and powerful, and chambered in an easily available round (depending on which side of the Iron Curtain you found yourself). You can imagine my enthusiasm when I discovered that such a pistol existed in the Hungarian RK-59. Before discussing that pistol, however, I need to digress to give some history. To promote standardization of calibers in the old Warsaw Pact, member countries were ordered to use 7.62x39mm rifles and 9x18mm pistols. Some countries adopted their own locally produced Makarov PM pistols in 9x18mm, while others developed domestic designs that chambered the 9x18mm round.

In Hungary, this service pistol was developed by FEGARMY (usually abbreviated FEG). Based on the Walther PP, the PA-63 was designed to meet the needs of both military and police forces. Similar in design and function to the Walther PP, the PA-63 employs a polished alloy frame and a blued steel slide. Magazine capacity is 7 rounds. The combination of the alloy frame and 9x18mm chambering made recoil fairly noticeable.

I’m assuming most reading this are familiar with the 9x18mm round, but I’ll offer a simple comparison: It falls between the .380 ACP (9x17mm) and 9x19mm rounds in stopping power, pressure and recoil. It is designed for blowback pistols and considered to be about the most powerful round that should be practically fired in a blowback design. Ballistic figures normally show a 95-grain bullet at 1,050 fps (feet per second) for 231 foot-pounds of energy. Some hotter rounds were developed for the PMM Makarov. There are also some special 9x18mm rounds developed for penetrating body armor and for air marshals, among others.

OK, with that background, let’s move on to the RK-59. This is a little known pistol, which I understand was developed for the AVH (Államvédelmi Hatóság), the Hungarian secret police. Based on the PA-63, but scaled down to Walther PPK size, it functions and disassembles like a PPK, but it has an alloy frame and a magazine capacity of 6 rounds like a 9x18mm Makarov. To give an idea of the perception of the AVH by Hungarian citizens, the museum located in the former headquarters is known as the “house of terror.” They were bad guys, but they came up with a good idea for a pistol.

When I got a chance to acquire an RK-59 25 years or so ago, I jumped at it. It came with a typical Warsaw Pact-style holster that completely encased the pistol and two magazines. It appeared unfired. Shortly after I got it, I fired about 100 rounds through it to check function and how well regulated the sights were, and I started carrying it as a pocket pistol in a PPK side pocket holster. Only later did I learn that one reason the RK-59 is so rarely seen is that the aluminum frame was prone to rapid wear when pounded by the 9x18mm round. Based on the amount of recoil when I shot it, the frame took a pounding. I’ve probably put a total of 250 rounds or so through mine, but I’ve now retired it to the safe as a collectible. Reportedly, FEG improved the metallurgy by adding 0.1-percent titanium to the aluminum alloy in the R61, which succeeded the RK-59 but is basically the same pistol. I have read, too, that some internal surfaces most subject to wear were also redesigned on the R61. One is on my want list, though I gather most of those imported into the U.S. are in .380, rather than 9x18mm Makarov, which I would greatly prefer.

Compared to the .32 ACP Model 48 (48M) autos used by the Hungarian police prior to the introdution of the PA-63, the PA-63 gave uniformed officers a pistol with substantially more stopping power. Likewise, the RK-59 gave plainclothes investigators and intelligence personnel a pistol that could be concealed readily, yet was powerful (by European police standards of the time). Once the Warsaw Pact dissolved and Hungary joined NATO, the FEG P9RC 9mm double-action (DA), high-capacity pistol became the standard Hungarian military arm. By the way, I should note that the 48M police pistol mentioned above should not be confused with the Model 48 used by the Hungarian Army; this was the Hungarian version of the TT-33 Tokarev.

Pocket Power

I’m sitting here with my RK-59 while I write and there are a few features which are worth noting. The two-tone effect of the brushed aluminum frame and black slide makes for an interesting “Panda-like” appearance. The finish of the aluminum portion is flat enough that it is actually non-reflective. The slide bears the Hungarian coat of arms along with “RK-59/Cal.9mm M” and “FEG/Budapest.” Both magazines, which are serial numbered to the pistol, have a finger-rest extension, which is actually too small for resting the fingers. It is still necessary to rest the little finger under the magazine (as you would on the PPK), and it hurts my hand when fired due to the 9×18 Makarov round’s recoil. I would prefer that, as is normal with a PPK pistol, one of the RK-59 magazines had been supplied with just the flat baseplate. This allows the finger to slide under the magazine more comfortably, and it also does not snag when carried in the pocket. I found the RK-59 magazine was especially prone to this when carried in the pocket. On the other hand, the finger rest does offer a good gripping point for removing the spare magazine from its pocket on the holster.

Some years ago, I discussed the RK-59 in an article and mentioned that I thought it could serve a niche for use by certain military personnel. When the handgun is the primary weapon for an officer or a soldier whose duties make carry of a rifle or carbine inconvenient, then a larger pistol firing a military round such as the 9x19mm or .45 ACP round is desirable. However, the standard military handgun cartridge in Hungary at the time was the 9×18 Makarov, so choosing the RK-59, which could fit in a pocket and only held one fewer round than the PA-63, seemed to offer an option for troops not wanting to be so obviously armed.

I’ll admit that I was disappointed when I had to stop using the RK-59 as a pocket pistol due to fears of excessive wear if I shot it; and if I were going to carry it, I would shoot it. The RK-59 today stays in the safe and reminds me of the days when I thought an alloy-framed PPK in 9x18mm Makarov would be the perfect pocket pistol. I still think it’s a good idea, but maybe instead as one that would hold up a little better!

The post The Hungarian Secret Police’s RK-59 Pistol appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

The King Abdullah II Special Operations Training Center, or KASOTC, is one of the most sophisticated training facilities in the world.

Situated in a former rock quarry, which provides a backstop for firing in much of the facility, the 25-square-kilometer facility offers an array of training areas. These include a 1,300-meter, unknown-distance sniper training area and a 300-meter moving target range that can be configured for different scenarios, including vehicle ambushes and counter-ambushes.

RELATED: Guns of the Elite: Jordanian Special Forces

A four-story, live-fire, CQB facility allows a range of hostage rescue or building takedowns to be practiced. There is also a mock village with 67 buildings from an “embassy” to an Afghan village. At the facility’s “airport” there are aircraft that allow for training on tubular assaults.

Linking the various facilities are sophisticated video and sound systems. On ranges, various simulators offer ever-changing scenarios covered by CCTV that allow operations to be later critiqued. Battlefield special effects can act as “stressers” in various facilities.

Instructors and students are drawn from all over the world, allowing a great chance to learn from other special operators. In addition to the training areas, the King Abdullah II Special Operations Training Center provides lodging and dining on site, as well as weapons storage, a gym and a pro shop.

Some friends of mine who have been call it one of the best special operations training facilities in the world—many say the best!

For more information on the King Abdullah II Special Operations Training Center, visit kasotc.com.

The post Inside Jordan’s King Abdullah II Special Operations Training Center appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

In the case of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, funding for special operations units is not a problem. That’s because the king is the former commander of the unit and a strong believer in the value of highly trained special operations troopers. In fact, Jordan sponsors one of the world’s foremost special operations gatherings, the Special Operations Forces Exhibition & Conference (SOFEX), which is held every other year at the King Abdullah I Air Base in Marka, Jordan. The most recent SOFEX took place in May of 2014. Reportedly, when Abdullah II became king, one of his great disappointments was that he would no longer be allowed to carry out parachute jumps!

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Jordan’s special operations forces trace their beginning to April 15, 1963, when King Hussein ordered their creation with the missions of reconnaissance, counterterrorism, combat search and rescue (CSAR), raids and protection of important facilities. In the tradition of special operations units that operate in a desert environment, Jordanian operators are also trained to operate behind enemy lines and attack supply lines.

Jordan’s Elite

Initially formed as a parachute company, as the unit received more advanced training and its mission widened it became a brigade by the 1980s. Within the brigade were airborne, special forces and counterterrorist units. One of the most pro-Western Arab countries, Jordan has faced extensive external threats and some internal ones, though the population is generally loyal to King Abdullah. As a result, the current Jordanian Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) is organized into three brigades: the Special Forces Brigade, which handles an array of special operations missions and includes the Counterterrorist Battalion (SOU-71), which handles hostage rescue and other counterterror missions, and the Combat Search and Rescue Battalion; the Ranger Brigade, which carries out missions similar to U.S. Army Rangers, though with more focus on internal counterinsurgency operations; and the Special Operations Aviation Brigade, which gives the Jordanian special operators specifically trained pilots for insertions.

There is also the 61st Special Reconnaissance Regiment, which is part of the Royal Guard Brigade. In fact, the entire Royal Guard Brigade comes under operational control of the JSOC. Descended from the famous Arab Legion, the Royal Guard Brigade has a long and storied history. Some members of the Royal Guard and special forces are descendants of the raiders who fought the Turks alongside Lawrence of Arabia. Along with various support units, JSOC also includes a Civil and Military Affairs Company with a psychological warfare capability.

Among specific missions carried out by the Jordanian JSOC are raids on key enemy installations, strategic recon, rescue of POWs or evacuation of civilians, organizing and training guerrillas, search and rescue, assistance to friendly Arab nations, counterterrorist operations, interdiction of infiltration and smuggling (especially along the Iraq border), internal security, dignitary protection, training of other Jordanian armed forces units, training for Jordanian law enforcement, training for officers and NCOs from other friendly countries, participation in joint training with other countries and participation in United Nations missions. Note that the various training and assistance missions carried out by the JSOC are very important, as the Jordanian operators are among the best-trained in the Middle East and as Arabs can work closely with many other Middle Eastern countries that might not welcome Western special forces operators. Among the countries that have received training from Jordanian special operators are Algeria, Bahrain, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Yemen.

Making The Grade

Those candidates for the Jordanian JSOC must first pass a series of physical and mental tests. They then move onto a one-month basic course designed to weed out those without the physical or mental stamina to succeed in the unit. Those who complete this basic selection then undergo a 10-week Ranger course and a four-week basic parachute course.

Individual operators then take various other courses to prepare them for their missions. These can include jump master, free-fall parachuting, pathfinder, land navigation, urban warfare and internal security, tactical air control, combat medicine, amphibious operations, special forces methods and operations, small-unit tactics, demolitions, sniping, combat shooting and various others. JSOC also places great stress on individual close-combat skills. As a result, trainees take a 24-week course in Tae-Kwon Do or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Sijal is another martial art operators learn. It is basically the Jordanian version of Krav Maga and is taught in an eight-week course. Use of the blade is strongly stressed as well. Traditionally, the Jordanian Special Forces have had good relations with the ROK Special Forces so it is likely that Tae-Kwon Do instructors have received a high level of training. Once Jordanian operators are full-fledged members of the unit, they wear maroon berets.

Guns & Gear

One advantage of SOFEX being held in Jordan is that members of JSOC get a chance to see and try the latest weaponry. For their rifles the Jordanians use the HK416 and G36 as well as the U.S. M4. For submachine guns, they use the HK MP5 (including MP5SDs), UMP and MP7. The desert environment in Jordan lends itself to long-range shooting, which is reflected by the number of sniping rifles available to operators. These include the Sako TRG-22 in 7.62mm, Sako TRG-42 in .338 Lapua, the Accuracy International L115A1 in .338 Lapua and a 7.62mm DPMS Panther rifle. At least some Russian VSS suppressed sniper rifles are available as well. For anti-materiel rifles they use the Barrett M82A1 and M95, the Accuracy International AS50 and the McMillan TAC-50, all in .50 BMG. To the best of my knowledge the only shotgun used is the Benelli M4.

Handguns available include the HK USP, Sig P226 and Glock 17 and G19. Heavier support weapons include the FN Minimi, the FN M240 and the M60E3 medium machine guns; the Browning M2HB heavy machine gun; the M203, Mk 19, HK GMG and Milkor MGL 40mm grenade launchers; the M41 ITAS, FGM-148 Javelin and AT-14 Kornet anti-tank missile launchers; SA-24 surface-to-air missiles; and Brandt 120mm and M224 60mm mortars. Among the light vehicles available to JSOC are Humvees, Desert Iris light utility vehicles, Al-Thalab long-range patrol vehicles, Dodge RAM 2500s and LTATVs. The counterterrorist unit has Land Rovers equipped with ladders for rapid access to windows or aircraft.

Aircraft used by the Jordanian Special Operations Aviation Brigade include the CASA CN-235 configured as a fixed-wing gunship to perform tactical support missions, as does the USAF AC-130 gunship; the UH-60L Black Hawk; the MD 530F light helicopter, with missions similar to the United States’ “Little Birds;” and the Eurocopter EC635.

Top Training

Naval Special Warfare capability rests with the 77th Marine Reconnaissance Battalion of the Jordanian Navy and members of JSOC who are scuba qualified (including King Abdullah, who is a qualified combat swimmer). The 77th Marine Reconnaissance Battalion is organized into two surveillance companies. The Jordanian Navy does maintain eight rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs) for special operations usage as well as some other small boats. The 77th Recon trains frequently with the U.S. Marines and in one exercise during Eager Lion 2012, U.S. Marine Recons, Jordanian 77th Recons and Saudi Special Naval Forces practiced landings on Jordanian beaches and seizures of positions in mountainous terrain. It was not lost on observers that the terrain resembled that of Iranian-controlled islands in the Gulf of Hormuz.

At least partly due to the influence of King Abdullah, Jordanian operators have had a chance to train with virtually every top-flight special operations unit in the world, either in Jordan or abroad. The unit has especially good relations with the U.S. Navy SEALs, U.S. Army Special Forces and U.S. Marine Corps Recons and MARSOC, as well as the British SBS and SAS. Reportedly, Jordan also maintains contacts with Israeli special operations units.

Jordanian special operations personnel are highly regarded in the world’s special operations community. They may well get a chance to prove this in combat, for as I write this, with ISIS threatening Iraq and the surrounding countries, it has been said that many operators of the Jordanian Special Operations Command have been deployed along the border. They will likely prove a far more formidable enemy than ISIS has faced so far.

The post Guns of the Elite: Jordanian Special Forces appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

TacStar’s Shotgun Rail Mount:

When a shotgun is sent to one of the custom shops that enhances combat shotguns, among the operations usually carried out are installing a ghost ring sight and adding a sidesaddle shell carrier. TacStar offers an inexpensive way to add both of these features with the Shotgun Rail Mount with Sidesaddle.

Lightweight—only 13 ounces—and fabricated of aluminum, the Rail Mount straddles both sides of the shotgun’s receiver for added rigidity. A ghost ring sight can be added to the rail or even a mini red dot, but the rail is low enough that a front bead sight may still be used on the shotgun. No gunsmithing is needed for installation, and everything you will need is included in the package.

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Currently, the Shotgun Rail Mount with Sidesaddle is available for the Remington 870, 1100 and 11-87, as well as Mossberg’s 12-gauge 500, 590 and Maverick 88 shotguns. That’s a lot of shotguns that can be quickly upgraded with this kit.

For more information, please call 800-225-9626 or visit TacStar.com.

Mesa Tactical SureShell Carrier:

Beretta 1301 fans have something to cheer about this year with Mesa Tactical’s new shell carrier system offered in four-, six- and eight-shell configurations. The easy-to-mount unit is machined from aircraft-grade aluminum and features an integrated, receiver-length aluminum Picatinny rail for mounting optics, lasers or other accessories.

SureShell carriers are proven to withstand the daily use and abuse operators and shooting enthusiasts dish out, and they work well in all climates and environments.

RELATED: Mesa Tactical Releases ‘Merica Collection of Shotshell Carriers

Like all Mesa Tactical SureShell shotshell carriers, the new 1301 model is made from 6061-T6 aluminum that has been hardcoat anodized matte black and uses the company’s innovative rubber friction retention system. This integrated shell carrier/optics mount system is securely attached to the receiver using the Beretta factory predrilled and tapped rail mount holes.

In addition to the Beretta 1301, SureShell shotshell carriers are available for a variety of shotguns, including Remington’s 870, Versa Max, 1100 and 11-87; Mossberg’s 500, 590 and 930; the FN SLP; the Kel-Tec KSG; and Benelli’s M1, M2, M3, M4 and SuperNova.

For more information, please call 714-545-3332 or visit MesaTactical.com.

The post TacStar, Mesa Tactical Combat Shotgun Upgrades appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

Portugal is a relatively small country of 35,603 square miles and a population of about 10.4 million. However, in the past, Portugal had a large colonial empire that required well-trained troops to maintain. Portugal is also a member of NATO. Though the colonial empire is gone, some of the elite units formed for service in the colonies remain as important parts of the Portuguese armed forces.

RELATED STORY: Guns of the Elite: Jordanian Special Forces

The best known of these units is probably the Portuguese Army Commandos, which was originally formed in 1962 to perform special operations in Portuguese colonies. Army Commandos were best known for counterinsurgency operations in Africa. Portuguese Commandos proved very effective during the fighting in Mozambique and Angola, but after the end of the colonial conflicts, the Commandos were merged with the Portuguese airborne force.

However, the Commandos were reactivated in 2002 as an independent Commando Battalion with two Commando Companies and a Training Company. In 2005, Commandos were deployed to Afghanistan. An additional Commando Company was also authorized.

As with many elite units, Commando training emphasizes psychological as well as physical toughness, namely the ability to keep going despite hardships. Only about 20 percent of trainees pass the selection course. Once again, as with many elite training courses, the Commandos are kept unsure of what they will be required to do next. This is intended to develop their ability to quickly adjust to unforeseen circumstances in combat. Among the primary missions of the Commandos today are long-range surveillance and intelligence gathering, though they are also trained for direct-action missions and counterinsurgency. Commandos wear red berets.

Rapid Reaction Brigade

The Commandos are part of the Portuguese Brigada de Reaccao Rapida (Rapid Reaction Brigade). Also part of this brigade are the Portuguese Airborne battalions, though they retain the designations of former regiments—the 3rd Cavalry Regiment (Recon), and 10th and 15th Parachute Infantry Regiments. The 15th Infantry Regiment is one of the oldest units in the Portuguese Army, having been established in 1641. The 15th Airborne Infantry acts as the cadre at the Portuguese Parachute Troops School. Prior to 1993, Portuguese paratroopers had been part of the Air Force and had seen a lot of action in colonial wars in Africa as Paratrooper Hunter Battalions. Since the current airborne forces are structured more as a heavier airborne force than when with the Air Force, the unit has added some specialist battalions incorporating an anti-tank company, a heavy mortar company, a services and support group, a field artillery group, an engineering company, an anti-aircraft artillery battery and a helicopter support group. There is also a War Dogs Center and a Pathfinder Company. Paratroopers wear green berets.

“Though the colonial empire is gone, some of the elite units formed for service in the colonies remain as important parts of the Portuguese armed forces.”

The Pathfinder Company is considered an elite within the parachute forces. In addition to carrying out reconnaissance of landing zones, the Pathfinders can also set up combat air control in forward locations. Though not their primary mission, the Pathfinders are also trained to carry out limited direct-action or recon missions.

Also part of the Rapid Reaction Brigade are members of the Portuguese CTOE (Special Operations Troop Center). The CTOE has the mission of training Portuguese troops in counterterrorism and unconventional warfare. Part of the CTOE is a special operations unit designated the DOE, which has the missions of long-range recon, raids against enemy command and control, destruction of enemy air defenses and radar stations, and prisoner-recovery missions. The DOE is trained for airborne, heliborne, small boat and other types of insertions. The unit is often equated with the U.S. Army Rangers. Elements of the CTOE have been deployed to Bosnia, East Timor, Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq. Among specialized training offered by the CTOE are sniping, psychological warfare, mountaineering and various others. Members of the CTOE can also attend other courses, including combat diving, forward air controller, combat medic, combat communications, demolitions, NBC (nuclear, biological and chemical), intelligence gathering, static line and free-fall parachuting, and small boat handling. Members of the CTOE also attend foreign courses in the U.S., UK, Germany, Spain, Norway and Brazil. These include the German LRRP School, Norwegian cold weather training and Brazilian jungle warfare training.

Navy & Airborne

Within the Portuguese Navy is a small special warfare unit—the DAE (Destacamento de Acoes Especials). Its missions include beach recon, combat search and rescue (CSAR), maritime anti-terrorism (MAT), demolitions against enemy ships and installations, raids across the beach, and other special operations. Those undergoing selection for the DAE first complete combat diving and underwater demolition training. After successful completion of that phase, they receive training in escape and evasion, high-speed driving, mountaineering, small-unit tactics and parachuting. They also learn English if they do not already speak it. The unit has a strength of approximately 60 and comprises a command unit along with four 10-man combat teams. Among units with which the DAE trains are the U.S. Navy DEVGRU, British SBS, French Commandos Marine, Spanish UOE and Brazilian GRUMEC. The DAE unit has been deployed to Angola, Zaire, Guinea-Bissau, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Somalia.

Though airborne forces are no longer part of the Portuguese Air Force, the Air Force does retain a small special operations unit—the UPF (Unidade de Protecao da Forca). Its missions include protection of Portuguese air bases, VIP protection and CSAR. For the latter mission, members of the UPF have trained with U.S. Air Force Pararescuemen.

More Elite Units

The Portuguese Marines, the Corpo de Fuzileiros, have a long and distinguished history as an elite unit; the unit can trace its history to 1618. The Fuzileiros
have the missions of amphibious warfare, coastal reconnaissance and raiding, guerrilla and unconventional warfare, maritime interdiction and combat boarding. In most countries the training of Marines is rigorous, but that of the Fuzileiros is among the world’s toughest, lasting 42 weeks with an average of only 25 percent completing the training and earning the dark blue beret. They march long distances, complete tough obstacle courses, learn to rappel and free climb, train with small boats and learn demolitions. They also spend a lot of time training for close-combat situations with weapons, blades and hand-to-hand. The
Fuzileiros consist of two Marine Battalions as well as a Fire Support Company, a Transport Support Company and a Naval Police Unit. The DAE special operations unit is considered part of the Marine Corps. Among units with which the Fuzileiros train are the U.S. Marine Corps and the British Royal Marines.

One other unit that should be mentioned is Portugal’s national counterterrorist unit—the GOE (Grupo de Operacoes Especials). Part of the Public Security Police, the GOE has principal responsibility for counterterrorist operations within Portugal and is also deployed for VIP protection, including motorcades and VIP countersniper missions, as well as raids on dangerous criminal organizations. The GOE is organized into a command element, a support unit, three Intervention Operational Groups, each with a strength of 20 to 25 operators, and one Technical Operational Group responsible for training, explosive ordnance disposal, working dogs and use of technical surveillance devices.

Guns & Gear

As can be expected with so many units, a diverse group of weapons are used. The mostly widely used rifle is the HK G36, in “K,” “KE” and “C”configurations. Other rifles that have seen some use are the HK G3 and HK416 (5.56mm)/HK417 (7.62mm), and the Sig SG543. Portuguese Marines have used M4 Carbines with M203 grenade launchers. Among the sniper rifles used by the various units are the 5.56mm Sig SG550 Sniper, the 7.62mm HK PSG1/MSG90A1, Accuracy International AW rifles in .338 Lapua, 7.62mm and .50 BMG, and the .50-caliber Barrett M82 and M95.

Principal submachine guns include the HK MP5 and MP5SD, the FN P90, the HK UMP and the Uzi. Shotguns include the Franchi SPAS-12 and SPAS-15, the Benelli M3 and M4, the Remington 870 and the Mossberg 590. Primary handguns used include the Sig Sauer P226, P228 and P2022, the Glock 17 and Glock 19, and the HK USP. Heavier weapons include the 5.56mm FN Minimi, the 7.62mm HK21E, the 7.62mm Rheinmetall M3 and the 5.56mm HK MG4.

RELATED STORY: Guns of the Elite: 160th SOAR Night Stalkers

As a long-standing member of NATO and a country with a proud military tradition, Portugal has retained an array of units that can carry out special missions at home or abroad. Portugal has also developed close military ties with other nations that allow its special operations units to get world-class training. Portugal’s spec-ops warriors stand ready to serve and defend.

The post Guns of the Elite: Portugal’s Spec-Ops Warrios appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

When the Beretta M9 was adopted in 1985, it was intended to replace a wide range of pistols and revolvers used by the U.S. armed forces. It did a good job of it, too, except that there remained a need for a more compact pistol to be carried by investigators from the Army CID, Navy NCIS and Air Force OSI, as well as some pilots and intelligence officers. Previously, most investigators had been armed with snub-nosed Colt or Smith & Wesson revolvers. A replacement would need to be in the now-standard 9x19mm NATO chambering and be more readily concealed than the M9. At least some consideration was given to adopting a more compact version of the Beretta 92 upon which the M9 is based, but instead the Sig Sauer P228 was adopted as the M11.

RELATED STORY: 12 Sig Sauer 1911 Pistols For EDC, Competition

Although the M9 and M11 are considered the two standard U.S. military pistols, they are not the only ones that have been in service over the last two decades. U.S. Navy SEALs have used the P226 Navy model and more recently the MK25 version of the P226. The SEALs and other special operations units have also used the HK MK23 Mod 0 “Offensive” handgun. The MK23 retains the .45 ACP chambering of the Colt 1911, as do some 1911-type pistols adopted for the U.S. Marine Corps Special Operations Command (MARSOC) and Marine Expeditionary Unit Special Operations Capable (MEUSOC) personnel. Currently, Colt is producing the M45 CQBP (Close Quarter Battle Pistol) for Marine special operators. Special Forces operators have used an array of weapons, including Glock pistols.

Military M11s

That’s some history, but let’s get back to the M11. Investigators, military intelligence personnel and pilots all have a sound reason for needing a more compact pistol than the M9; hence, some aircrew are issued the M11. Aircrew are especially weight conscious, since they are limited to what they can carry on a survival vest. Since an M11 with one loaded magazines weighs 28.8 ounces while an M9 with one loaded magazine weighs 41.6 ounces, there is a real advantage for aircrew. Still, some aircrew are issued the M9 rather than the M11.

There also seems to be a certain status in being issued an M11. My military contacts tell me that some higher-ranking officers want an M11. Some female MPs with small hands and some female officers also seem to be authorized the M11 instead of the M9. SEALs and other special operators also use the M11 sometimes when they want a more concealable pistol. As of March 2003, various military investigative agencies had 5,317 in their armories, with at least some possibly being Sig Sauer P228s acquired before the deliveries of the M11 began.

Since the NCIS is a civilian investigative agency unlike the CID and OSI, they are not as wedded to military-issue weapons. As a result, in 2008 Sig Sauer announced that the NCIS would be acquiring .40-caliber P229s and P239s to replace their M11s. The U.S. Coast Guard also uses .40 P229s.

“As with every Sig Sauer pistol I can remember testing, its reliability has been excellent—100 percent so far without any cleaning.”

Contacts tell me that at least some units have ordered holsters for the M11 from various makers. However, the standard holster appears to be the GI M14 holster (NSN: 1095-01-338-4770). This is a forward-canted concealment holster with a retention snap. Flight crew survival vests have a built-in holster that will take an M9 or an M11. Generally, though, U.S. pilots are only issued a sidearm when flying in or near a combat zone.

The M11 is loaded with the same M882 ball ammo with 124-grain bullets as the M9. Although you will find differing sources on specifications for the M882 round, normally it is considered to be loaded at +P pressures and provides muzzle velocities between 1,150 and 1,200 fps.

The Everyman’s M11

Now Sig Sauer offers the M11-A1, a civilian version of the military’s M11. In simple terms the M11-A1 is an improved version of the original GI M11 that theoretically meets the basic “Technical Data Package” for the M11; however, I understand that as this is written M11-A1s are not being delivered to the armed forces. For the civilian shooter, though, the M11-A1 offers a chance to own a pistol that shares many features with the military-issued M11.

There are a lot of features to like on the M11-A1. For example, it has corrosion-resistant internal parts, as do the pistols Sig makes for the U.S. Navy SEALs. The slide also has Sig’s Nitron finish, which I have found holds up quite well on the P226 I have carried quite a bit. As I understand it, Nitron is similar to what is known as a diamond-like carbon (DLC) finish. This is applied through PVD (Physical Vapor Disposition) and/or PA-CVD (Plasma Assisted Chemcial Vapor Dispostion), a process that increases wear resistance. The frame is hardcoat anodized. Another feature is the Short Reset Trigger, which makes it easier to engage multiple targets quickly.

I use the Double Action Kellerman (DAK) trigger system on a lot of my Sig Sauer pistols, but I have also used the conventional double-action/single-action (DA/SA) trigger system for years, so I don’t mind that the M11-A1 uses this system, though it does make for a significant difference in the first-round DA pull and SA pull for subsequent rounds. I also like the SIGLITE night sights, as I use night sights on most of my pistols and am used to acquiring my targets in low light. The one problem with night sights in general, including the SIGLITEs, is that if they are off in elevation, it is necessary to track down the proper front sight post, which can be mastered with practice. I usually try to adjust by trying different loads until I find one that shoots to the point of impact.

An interesting feature present on the military M11s and retained on the M11-A1 is the military-standard unique identification (UID) label on the pistol’s frame. It carries the manufacturer’s code, weapon identification and serial number. Since I don’t scan my weapons in and out of my armory, I find it an interesting cosmetic feature that gives the pistol more of a GI aura rather than a practical feature.

The M11-A1 has a lanyard ring. This is always a useful feature on a military pistol and would be especially so on a pistol used by aircrew or naval personnel, where retention could be an issue. More recently, the U.S. armed forces have been acquiring the M9A1, which has an accessory rail. The M11 does not have an accessory rail, nor does the M11-A1. This makes sense, as the M11 is intended as a concealment pistol rather than a “tactical” pistol.

One thing that should be borne in mind when evaluating the M11 pistol is that members of the OSI and CID have the dignitary protection mission with generals and Department of Defense officials. The M11 offers a good compromise between compactness, magazine capacity and performance. Just as a side note, other federal agents with protective missions, such as the Department of State Security (DSS) and Secret Service, carry similar Sig Sauer pistols, though Secret Service P229s are chambered in .357 SIG.

Test Fire

I’ve taken the M11-A1 to the range a couple of times now. I used mostly GI overrun 124-grain Winchester and Federal ammo, but also fired some CorBon rounds for groups because I normally find it especially accurate. At 25 yards, using CorBon 90-grain JHP loads, the M11-A1 shot a 49 out of 50 on a bullseye target with a group around 2 inches. I’ve now taken the M11-A1 to the range twice and put 200 rounds of 124-grain NATO-spec ammo and 50 rounds of CorBon 90-grain JHP ammo through it. Next session I want to try the M11-A1 with CorBon 115- and 125-grain JHPs and Black Hills 115-grain JHPs.

Overall, it has performed well. As with every Sig Sauer pistol I can remember testing, its reliability has been excellent—100 percent so far without any cleaning. The DA trigger pull is a bit heavy—10 pounds by factory specs—but it is smooth. According to the factory, the SA pull weight on the M11-A1 is 4.4 pounds, which allows for good accuracy downrange.

RELATED STORY: Gun Review: Sig Sauer’s P220 Match Elite 10mm Handgun

I’m a big fan of the entire Sig Sauer line of P220-based pistols, and the M11-A1 is no exception. And it allows civilian shooters to own a pistol close to the military’s M11. It’s a good, interesting, combat-ready pistol.

For more information on the M11-A1, visit sigsauer.com or call 603-610-3000.

The post Gun Review: Sig Sauer’s M11-A1 9mm Handgun appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

In the history of European submachine guns, it is easy to overlook the Walther MP series—but that would be a mistake. While the Heckler & Koch MP5 has become such an iconic submachine gun (SMG), it is easy to forget that initially in Germany it was outpaced by another SMG that had been developed by Walther a few years earlier. Offered in two primary versions, made up of the MPL (Maschinenpistole Lang) and the MPK (Maschinenpistole Kurz)—“Lang” for long or “Kurz” for short—the weapon began production in 1963 and remained in production until 1985. However, actual development of what would become the MPL and MPK began much earlier, during the 1950s.

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The Walther fires from an open bolt and is of an interesting design. It is the shape of a “Lazy L,” as they would say if it were a cattle brand, as the “L” appears to be on its side. Much of the bolt’s weight is located above the bolt face. The operating spring guide rod extends through the bolt from the rear of the receiver and helps guide the bolt within the receiver. This guide rod is critical to the operation of the MP as it also guides the main spring. Cuts on the bolt keep dust or debris from clogging the action. The bolt is not captive to the cocking handle, so it remains in the forward position while the bolt is cycling.

Full-Auto Force

The MPL/MPK safety lever is ambidextrous and, when in the “S” position, locks the bolt either forward or to the rear. Thomas B. Nelson’s The World’s Submachine Guns explains that the MP SMG is full-auto-only so there are only two selector positions, “S” and “F.” However, the MPLs and MPKs I have handled and fired have had a “semi-auto” setting as well. Nelson was writing about early prototypes of the MP SMGs, which may have initially only featured the two settings.

According to Nelson, the MPL/MPK’s stock could be folded to either the right or left side of the weapon. However, all of the production guns that I have encountered have a stock that folds only to the right. The ability to fold to either side would have been quite useful for security details, as the team leader, normally seated in the right front seat, could have the stock folded to the left, allowing him to quickly deploy it with his support hand (assuming he were right-handed) while exiting the vehicle. Other operators would also find the ability to deploy the stock from the left a bit faster. However, since the MPL/MPK, as produced, folded to the right, users adapted. I found it fastest for me to slap the stock with my shooting hand.

During World War II, the Germans had substantial experience in producing SMGs and assault rifles from stampings. This experience is carried over to the MP, which uses a stamping with an integral magazine housing for the receiver. The magazine is based on the proven Carl Gustaf design (Swedish K), which has a reputation for durability and reliability.

The Right Tools

The MPL/MPK did not achieve wide success, though there were some military and law enforcement sales. There were even a few sales of the MPL to the U.S. Armed Forces. The SEALs used some suppressed MPs in Vietnam. I have also read that some MPs were used on the Son Tay Raid. Originally, the Delta Force used the M3 Grease Gun, but after encountering the HK MP5 with Germany’s GSG9 antiterrorist unit it adopted that weapon instead. The GSG9 had adopted the MP5 because it was the standard SMG in use with the West German Border Patrol—not the MPL/MPK. Reportedly, though, the Delta Force acquired some MPLs and MPKs during a transitional period between the M3 and the MP5.

Other government sales included those to German law enforcement agencies. Within Germany, the Navy adopted the MPL while various police forces adopted the MPL or MPK. The most well-known use of the Walther MP by German police was probably during the Munich Olympic hostage crisis. Members of the Munich police, armed with the MPL, attempted to infiltrate the scene of the hostage taking at the Olympic Village. Unfortunately, the area had not been cleared of news cameramen so the assault was televised and watched by the terrorists! It failed, but the MPL was prominently featured.

I served as the tactical adviser for National Geographic Channel’s Seconds From Disaster on the Munich incident a few years ago. As part of the process I had a chance to talk with one of the German Polizei who had been part of the assault. In passing, we discussed the MPL. He informed me that they had felt outgunned since the terrorists had AK-47s. I mentioned that my experience has been that very few of the terrorists/insurgents/freedom fighters I’ve encountered actually had zeroed their AK-47s or practiced with them extensively; hence, at the ranges involved, I feel the assault team should have been able to engage effectively.

His reply was that they had qualified with the MPLs but rarely practiced with them. Basically, they were trained as patrol cops, not as a SWAT team. Because of the overall poor response to the terrorist attack, Germany formed its elite antiterrorist unit, the GSG9, the next year. The GSG9 adopted the HK MP5 and introduced it to many other antiterrorist units, thus helping it surpass the MPL/MPK within a few years.

Most of the other countries that adopted the MP chose the MPK version for its compactness. Among these were Brazil, Colombia and Venezuela. The Mexican and Portuguese navies adopted the MPL and used the SMG for many years. In fact, as of about 10 to 15 years ago, the Portuguese Marine Corps was still using the MPL. The South African Police used the MPL/MPK, but it is no longer a first-line weapon. Zimbabwe also had MPLs at one point, likely acquired from South Africa. However, Zimbabwe uses mostly AKs and other ComBloc weapons these days.

Other official and semi-official units around the world have used the MPK. I had contact with various Middle Eastern close-protection teams during the 1970s and 1980s that had MPKs. In that part of the world, Germans SMGs have always been popular.

Hands On

It’s unclear how many MPLs and MPKs were produced. Based on my own experience, there seem to have been more MPKs, but that may just be those that I’ve encountered have been with agencies that want their SMGs as concealable as possible. I would estimate that I’ve fired the MPK at least three or four more times than the MPL. My estimate is that I’ve put about 600 to 750 rounds through the MPK and a couple of hundred through the MPL.

I have shot these Walthers enough to make some comments about their use. One positive comes after shooting the MPK, as the barrel and other parts may be quickly removed for easy cleaning. I have found the pistol grip comfortable, but the selector switch is hard to operate with fingers that aren’t long. The selector operates with “safe” in the top position, “full auto” in the middle and “semi-auto” almost 180 degrees from safe. The latter requires a long push from full auto to semi, usually requiring the shooter to shift their grip on the shooting hand or using the support hand. Actually, though, the relatively low cyclic rate of the MPK allows firing of single shots or double-taps through trigger control after becoming familiar with the weapon.

I especially like the MPK’s sights. I find the peep quite useful at 100 yards. An interesting aspect of the MPK’s sights is that the open sight is atop the peep sight and allows the head to be up for scanning an area while allowing quick engagement. The front post is narrow enough to allow good acquisition with either the open sight or the peep. The triggerguard is open enough to allow shooters to wear tactical or other light gloves.

I like the durability of the MPK’s steel construction and shrouded sights; whether it’s in the hands while exiting a vehicle or slung while moving through a building, the Walther submachine gun is likely to take some knocks. On the other hand, the steel stampings get very cold or very hot depending on the weather. The latter is also the case when the gun is fired on full auto. As a result, the MPK can be uncomfortable to use outdoors in some cases.

The MPK’s wire skeleton stock has the usual problems with such stocks. It is not comfortable against the shoulder or the cheek, though the fact that the MPK fires the 9mm round makes it less uncomfortable than it would be if firing a more powerful round. When firing on full auto, the MPK is definitely uncomfortable and hard to control. Firing bursts helps a lot. Holding the MPK steady during full-auto fire is made more difficult by the necessity to grip the front of the magazine well with the support hand. Folding the stock takes some effort and the shooter must beware that he or she doesn’t catch a finger. On the positive side, the MPK has two latches to keep the stock solidly folded.

The magazine housing is not beveled to speed up loading in combat; this would be a desirable feature, especially at night. The magazine well is forward of the triggerguard as on other German SMGs. Given that the MPK began production after the Uzi was already on the market, this was a marketing disadvantage and a tactical disadvantage, as the ability to find the magazine well in the grip on the Uzi—using the hand-finds-hand system—makes the Uzi quick for combat reloads.

In fact, Germany produced the Uzi as the MP2 on license, one other reason why there were no major German military contracts for the MP. I don’t consider the forward mag well a major disadvantage, as most of the SMGs I used during the 1970s and 1980s have them in the same position. The magazine release was usable but not especially ergonomic.

Evaluating the MPK has been a trip down memory lane for me. It’s been a reminder of the days when my hair was still brown, my waist was 32 inches, I carried a Browning Hi-Power and I could work 12-hour shifts and still spend an hour or two working out in the gym. There is a tendency to compare the Walther MPK to the HK MP5, but I think that a more apt comparison is with other SMGs of the time, including the Uzi, the Beretta M12 and the Sterling, for example.

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Despite the relative disadvantages of the MPK I’ve mentioned, when I was using it or training teams that used it, I was satisfied with it. I felt that if I had to bring it into action it would respond. It always proved reliable, which was a confidence builder.

I have to admit, too, that I always liked the MPK because it was a Walther. In fact, I carried a PPK as my backup gun during the years when I would have used the MPK. The MPK is rarely encountered today, but I would recommend that if the chance should arise to shoot one, take it. This design offers an interesting look at a very rare and intriguing German SMG.

For more information, please visit Waltherarms.com.

The post MPL & MPK: Walther’s Cold War MP Subguns appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

The Vietnam War was the first jungle conflict fought by the U.S. armed forces since World War II in the Pacific. As a result, there had been little acquisition of new shotguns during the intervening 20 years.

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The U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps entered the Vietnam conflict with the same shotguns that had seen service in World War II—the Winchester Model 12, the Winchester Model 97, the Stevens 520-30 and the Stevens 620A trench and riot guns. Many had been arsenal refurbished after World War II. Most popular was the Model 12 Winchester, especially with the Marines. Some other riot guns were acquired for issuance to the Vietnamese, including the Ithaca Model 37. Additionally, some Ithaca Model 37 riot guns and a few trench models were acquired by the U.S. Navy for use by riverine forces and SEALs.

Battlefield 12 Gauge

Early in the Vietnam War, the Stevens Arms Company received orders for military Model 77E riot guns. They saw wide usage in Vietnam, especially among MPs, though with infantry and other units as well. Some also went to the Vietnamese. Reportedly, 60,920 Model 77E riot guns were delivered to the U.S. Armed Forces or allies beginning in 1963. According to U.S. military shotgun collector Jeff Moeller, factory records indicate 77E production ended in early 1964, rather than later as is sometimes cited. The first delivery of the initial contract took place on May 24, 1963 and the last on December 31, 1963 for a total of 58,940. A supplemental contact resulted in the delivery of 1,980 on February 14, 1964.

Four companies bid for the contract, with Savage Stevens being the lowest at $31.50 per shotgun, followed by High Standard at $33.25, Ithaca at $38.11 and Remington at $55.43. Stevens was actually overbid on the shotguns, as their actual charge to the government was $33.51 each. The contract also included a cleaning rod to be supplied with each shotgun. To illustrate how closely Stevens watched their costs, the rubber recoil pads were produced by Ohio Rubber Company and have distinctive “T” cutouts, as this saved one cent per recoil pad over a solid rubber pad.

One advantage of the 77E was that it was inexpensive. Because the original intent was to provide the 77E for Vietnamese forces, the stocks were reduced by about 0.62 inches, making length of pull 13 inches. Fortuitously, this allowed U.S. troops to use them readily while wearing flak jackets, but, in general, U.S. troops did not like the shorter stock. Unlike most U.S. GI shotguns, the 77E was fitted with a thick recoil pad. This was in deference to the smaller Vietnamese as well. In combat, the stock proved the weakest part of the 77E, especially if used to butt-stroke an enemy. As a result, armorers often had to replace stocks. This problem also resulted in a large number of spare stocks being produced with recoil pads.

Some of these replacement stocks were longer than the originals, probably because repairs were being made for U.S. units with U.S.-sized troops. For years after the Vietnam War ended, these stocks were common on the surplus market, but they have gotten much scarcer now, as I learned when I was searching recently for one for my 77E. Another problem mentioned by armorers occurred with the triggerguard, which was made of alloy and often broke. Apparently, however, there were no replacement triggerguards available in the supply system. Overall, compared to the Model 12 Winchester or the Ithaca Model 37, the 77E was not considered as sturdy for combat, though it saw quite a bit.

Into The Action

Martial 77E shotguns are readily identifiable by the Parkerized receiver and barrel; the “U.S.” stamped on the right side of the receiver just behind the barrel; the “P” proof marks on top of the receiver and barrel; a 20-inch, cylinder-bored barrel with a bead sight; a black, stained stock and forearm; a rubber recoil pad; and sling swivels. Often, Vietnam 77Es will be encountered with most of the black stain worn off of the stock and forearm. Note also that there were two types of front sling swivels—either attached to a barrel band (earlier type) or attached to the magazine plug platform. Reportedly, a few 77Es were fitted experimentally with bayonet adaptors, though it does not appear any were actually issued to troops. There may have been some 77Es that had bayonet lugs added by the Vietnamese.

The 77E riot guns had a trigger disconnect, which meant that unlike the Ithaca 37s in use by the SEALs, the trigger could not be held back while the slide action was cycled to fire rounds quickly. Still, the 77E could be fired very quickly, and users learned to feed additional shells whenever there was a lull in the fighting. In fact, one study showed that the shotgun had a higher kill ratio than the M16. Arguably, the fact that the shotgun was normally used at closer range may have contributed to this. The 77E had a cross-bolt safety at the rear of the triggerguard and a slide/bolt release on the left side in front of the triggerguard. This location was actually more ergonomic than the location of the slide/bolt release on many other combat shotguns.

Though originally intended primarily for the Vietnamese, the need for shotguns by U.S. troops resulted in thousands being issued. As mentioned earlier, the 77E saw a lot of service with U.S. Army MPs. Those assigned to convoy duty often carried the Stevens, as did those assigned to guard communist prisoners, HQs or other installations. Some patrol MPs in Saigon and elsewhere also carried the 77E.

During the Tet Offensive, the 77E and other shotguns would have been invaluable in clearing VC from buildings. At least some Army and USMC infantrymen assigned to point duty carried the 77E, and the 77E and other shotguns were used for clearing VC bunkers or tunnels, though most tunnels were so constricted that only handguns could be used. Both MPs and other dog handlers used the 77E as an alternative to the M16 or, later, the XM177. The 77E or other shotguns would have been most useful on convoy duty when moving through villages or other areas where an attack might be launched at close range.

Combat Loads

Early in the Vietnam conflict, M19 brass 00 buckshot loads left over from World War II were still in use, but as these ran out, two types were acquired: XM162 00 buckshot and XM257 #4 buckshot. The XM162 load was the most widely used. Both types were packed in cardboard boxes holding 10 rounds then wrapped in foil wrappers to inhibit moisture. Both the cardboard boxes and the wrappers were marked with the designation of the shells—“10 CTGS, 12 Gage SHOTGUN PLASTIC CASE NO. 00 BUCSHOT XM162”—and a lot number. XM257 boxes and wrappers were similarly marked but with the XM257 designation and #4 buckshot. Model 77Es would have likely been used at some point to fire the flechette rounds that were tested in Vietnam during 1967 and 1968. These aerodynamic projectiles offered longer range but less lethality than buckshot.

Rare Collectible

Though the 77E undoubtedly saw combat, I cannot remember reading any narratives of its use. In his excellent Complete Guide To United States Military Shotguns, Bruce Canfield mentions that U.S. Marine 2nd Lt. John Bobo used a 77E in winning his Congressional Medal of Honor on March 30, 1967, in Quang Tri Province. Although the Stevens shotgun is not mentioned in Bobo’s CMH citation, it is worth quoting anyway:

“Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Company 1 was establishing night ambush sites when the command group was attacked by a reinforced North Vietnamese company supported by heavy automatic weapons and mortar fire. Second Lt. Bobo immediately organized a hasty defense and moved from position to position encouraging the outnumbered Marines despite the murderous enemy fire. Recovering a rocket launcher from among the friendly casualties, he organized a new launcher team and directed its fire into the enemy machine gun positions. When an exploding enemy mortar round severed 2nd Lt. Bobo’s right leg below the knee, he refused to be evacuated and insisted upon being placed in a firing position to cover the movement of the command group to a better location. With a web belt around his leg serving as a tourniquet and with his leg jammed into the dirt to curtain (sic) the bleeding, he remained in this position and delivered devastating fire into the ranks of the enemy attempting to overrun the Marines. Second Lt. Bobo was mortally wounded while firing his weapon into the main point of the enemy attack but his valiant spirit inspired his men to heroic efforts, and his tenacious stand enabled the command group to gain a protective position where it repulsed the enemy onslaught. Second Lt. Bobo’s superb leadership, dauntless courage, and bold initiative reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the U.S. Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.”

It can be deduced that Bobo used the shotgun effectively in firing into the enemy attempting to overrun the position, as the shotgun would have been very effective at close range against a mass attack.

Despite the fact that the Stevens 77E was one of the more widely used shotguns of the Vietnam War, it is little known outside the ranks of U.S. shotgun collectors or weapons historians. It isn’t as “sexy” as the trench guns that still saw action, nor as well known as the Ithaca Model 37s used by the SEALs or the Winchester Model 12s used by the Marines. The Stevens Model 77E is also one of the toughest U.S. military shotguns to find.

RELATED STORY: Stevens Unveils Four New 20-Gauge Shotgun Models

When the United Stated pulled out of Vietnam, most Model 77Es were left behind. Some did remain in the U.S. or return with troops redeploying, but unlike earlier martial shotguns they weren’t sold off as surplus.

Most of those that do turn up were supplied by the Department of Defense to police departments, which later sold or traded them. These weapons make great Vietnam collectibles or additions to U.S. shotgun collections, but count on paying up to 60 times what they originally cost the U.S. government if one happens to turn up.

For more information, visit SavageArms.com.

The post Forgotten Warrior: Stevens’ Model 77E Shotgun appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

During the Winter War of 1939/1940, Finland heroically fought the forces of the Soviet Union in a David-versus-Goliath struggle that lasted about 100 days. Though the Finns eventually lost about 11 percent of their territory to the Soviet Union, they inflicted 323,000 casualties on the Soviets while suffering only 70,000 casualties themselves. Of course, for a small country that was a lot of casualties. As a result of Finland’s tenacity and courage during the Winter War, the reputation of the Finns around the world was enhanced, while the Soviet’s poor performance in combat may have contributed to Hitler’s decision to invade the Soviet Union less than a year and a half later.

RELATED STORY: Maximizing the Mosin-Nagant Battle Rifle

Finland’s greatest asset during the Winter War was a large cadre of citizen soldiers who combined their skills as skiers, woodsmen and riflemen to ambush and carry out hit-and-run attacks on the Soviets. The principal weapons for the Finnish raiders were the Suomi submachine gun and the Finnish versions of the Mosin-Nagant rifle, chambered for the Finnish 7.62x53R round, which is virtually identical to the Russian 7.62x54R round used in their version of the Mosin-Nagant.

Originally, Finland had a large number of Soviet Mosin-Nagant M/91 rifles, which were in military arms depots when they achieved their independence from Russia in December 1917. Within a few years, however, the Finns would begin producing Mosin-Nagant rifles at SAKO, Tikka and Valmet, three arms producers that remain famous today for high-quality rifles.

The first large-scale upgrade of Finnish Mosin-Nagant rifles was the M/24 rifle for the Finnish Civil Guard. The Finnish Civil Guard (the Suojeluskunta) fulfilled a function similar to the U.S. National Guard. It was composed of volunteers, many of whom were outdoorsmen, hunters and shooters. They were separate from the Finnish Army, which was composed primarily of conscripts. Civil Guard members trained frequently and realistically. So much stress was put on marksmanship that the Civil Guard actually owned the Sako gun works. Most who have studied the Winter War believe that the Civil Guard was the most important element early in the conflict to slow the Russian advance. Their M/24 rifles used German barrels from Venus Arms, or barrels purchased from SIG in Switzerland. These rifles are often referred to as the “Lotta Rifle” after Lotta Svard, the women’s auxiliary of the Civil Guard, which helped raise the money for the rifle upgrades.

Next, the Finns reworked the M1891 Mosin-Nagant by retaining the receiver and magazine, but using a shorter, heavier barrel, improved sights, an improved bolt and new barrel bands, among other changes. After problems arose with the stock breaking when using the bayonet, the stocks were also modified. An interesting point is that many Finn soldiers didn’t like the bayonet, but preferred to use their traditional puukko knives for close combat. The current bayonet for the Valmet M/76 rifle is actually a knife bayonet of traditional style. A shortened cavalry version, the M/27rv, was also produced in limited numbers. Very similar to the M/27 was the M/28, which had a different barrel band and improved trigger. Initially, M/28 barrels were purchased from SIG, but later they were produced by Tikka and SAKO. All of the rifles, however, were assembled at SAKO. The major criticism of the M/28 was that it retained the Russian “Konovalov” rear sight, which Finnish troops did not like. This is one of the primary reasons for the development of the M/28-30.

Rifle Details

The M/28-30 is generally considered the best of the Finnish Mosin-Nagants and the rifle focused on in this article. Known for its accuracy, the M/28-30 had an improved rear sight, a front sight adjustable for windage, a coiled trigger spring to minimize pre-travel, and magazines designed to prevent jamming due to the rimmed cartridges interlocking. The new front sight retained the protective ears used on the M/28, which resulted in Finnish troops referring to them as “Pystykorva” rifles; this translates as “Spitz dog ears” as they thought the ears resembled those of the Spitz dogs, which were popular in Finland. This front sight did not require a special tool for adjustment as it used standard screws. Another aid to accuracy was the addition of an aluminum sleeve in the forend of the handguard to act as a heat shield. This sleeve also made contact between barrel and stock more consistent and eliminated some of the adverse affects on the rifle’s harmonics. Basically, it enhanced the performance for greater accuracy.By the time production of the M/28-30 rifles began, Finland was producing its own quality steel for barrels from the Lokomo steel works. Stocks were of Arctic birch, which was not susceptible to warping in the extreme cold encountered during the Finnish winter. The first M/28-30 rifles incorporating new materials and improvements came off the SAKO assembly line in April 1934.

Competition Use

Prior to the Winter War, the M/28-30 was a popular competition rifle with the Civil Guard, and it was also used by famed Finnish sniper Simo Hayha, without a scope, for many of his 505 confirmed kills during the Winter War. However, the M/28-30 was used as the basis for a Civil Guard sniping rifle, the M/33, which mounted the German Bush Visar 4.5x Dr. Zf104 scope. The Civil Guard developed a special curved stripper clip that bent around the scope to allow rapid magazine loading. The M/28-30 was deemed accurate enough that 440 of them were manufactured by SAKO for use in the 1937 World Shooting Championships in Helsinki, in which the Finns won the most medals. The last pre-World War II competition was held in Lucerne (with a couple of events held in Germany) and was won by Germany. After World War II, however, the Finns once again proved their marksmanship, winning the 1948 competition in Buenos Aires. Note that traditionally the service rifle of the host country was used for these competitions. Some of the specially selected M/28-30 rifles, which were not used in the actual World Shooting Championships, were later awarded to members of the Civil Guard as shooting prizes and saw action in the Winter War. Unlike many military rifles at that time, the rear sight of the M/28-30 was known to be accurate throughout its range of adjustments.

Design Variations

There were other Finnish versions of the Mosin-Nagant produced prior to World War II, most notably the M/39, which was similar to the M/28-30, though with a pistol grip stock. The Finnish Army had chosen not to adopt the M/28-30 used by the Civil Guard as they felt it was too heavy and that its sights were too complicated. Although it may seem a minor point, some Finnish soldiers found the change in the M/39’s rear sight, which incorporated the battle sight setting of 150 meters as opposed to 200 meters originally used on the M/28-30, an aid to precision shooting at closer ranges. Very few M/39s were produced before the end of the Winter War, but 96,800 were produced and used during the Continuation War, in which the Finns continued to fight the Soviet Union as allies of the Germans between June 1941 and September 1944. M/39 rifles had a reputation for accuracy, reportedly being required to place three out of five shots into 33mm (about 1.3 inches) at 100 meters to be accepted. Adapting to the soldier’s likes, the bayonet for the M/39 was shorter and of puukko style.

During 1943 and 1944, a model designated the M/30 was produced using barrels and parts from weapons captured during the Winter War or from rifles captured by the Germans on the Eastern Front. The Finns continued to re-manufacture Mosin-Nagant rifles into the 1980s; some actions were even used as the basis for the 7.62 Tkiv 85 sniping rifle used by Finnish Defense Forces from the mid-1980s on.

It was the M/28-30 rifle, however, that was the most popular front-line weapon during the Winter War and the Continuation War, though estimates put production between 1934 and 1941 at only about 40,000, far less than the later M/39. This figure is misleading, however, as it denotes the number of rifles produced as M/28-30s. Actually, a large number of earlier M/28 rifles had also been upgraded to M/28-30 specs. Other earlier versions of M1891 Mosin-Nagant served as well, as Finland attempted to equip as many troops as possible. Although the M/28-30 rifle was highly prized for its accuracy among the members of the Civil Guard, for whom it had been designed, many examples ended up in use by the Finnish Army, a separate fighting force during the Winter War. Although the rifle’s accuracy was appreciated, the Army found that it had a tighter chamber, which made it more difficult to fire captured Soviet 7.62x54R ammunition in it. Also, the standard round used by the Finnish Army was the D166 service cartridge, while the M/28-30 had been designed for best accuracy with the lighter D46 and D47 rounds. Still, the M/28-30 served well during the Winter War and Continuation War, though almost half were declared unserviceable by 1951, when only about 22,100 of them remained serviceable.

Additional Features

The sling mounting points are not swivels but channels in the stock through which the sling strap may be passed. Although this method limits the manner in which the rifle may be carried slung, it makes a lot of sense for the Civil Guard’s mission in launching stealthy attacks amid the Finnish forests, as this method is much quieter than the use of sling swivels. The safety was also hard to apply. It requires pulling the knob at the rear of the bolt back while rotating it to move the safety into position at the left of the receiver. But I would speculate that most Finnish Civil Guards carried the rifles empty and chambered a round when needed, though with practice they probably achieved some facility with the safety.

RELATED STORY: The Russian Mosin-Nagant 7.62x54R Military Rifle

As time has passed, appreciation for the M/28-30 has grown in Finland and elsewhere, and the rifle is now a sought-after collectible.

The post Winter War Fighter: The Mosin-Nagant M/28-30 appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

The Ithaca Model 37 riot gun was never as popular for police use as the Remington 870, but it did have some notable users. It was the standard shotgun of the LAPD for many years in what is usually referred to as the “LAPD Configuration.” These Ithacas had 18- or 20-inch barrels, though I’ve been told at least some for detectives had 14- or 16-inch barrels. Generally, LAPD 37s did not have the full-length, eight-round magazine tube but the shorter four-round magazine. LAPD Model 37s also had rifle sights.

RELATED STORY: 12 Mission-Ready 12-Gauge Scatterguns

Based on the few conversations I’ve had with LAPD officers who used the Model 37, they always liked the shotgun, though they emphasized that it could not be carried in the patrol car with a round chambered. Of course, this really applies to any shotgun carried in a patrol car. I’ve also been told that as recently as 10 years ago LAPD and/or LA County sheriffs were still using some Model 37s. Both the Chicago PD and NYPD also used Ithaca Model 37s at one time.

The Model 37 shotgun, in both riot and trench gun formats, also saw substantial U.S. military usage, especially with the U.S. Navy SEALs in Vietnam. Note that the term “trench gun” normally indicates the weapon was fitted with a ventilated handguard and bayonet lug. The first military orders for the Ithaca Model 37 were during World War II, when longer-barreled guns for training in aerial gunnery (to teach lead on targets) as well as riot and trench models were ordered. Only 1,422 Ithaca trench guns were actually delivered during World War II, plus about 5,000 riot guns (most of which had 22-inch rather than 20-inch barrels) and longer-barreled training shotguns. This was because the government had asked Ithaca to concentrate on producing Model 1911A1 pistols for the military instead.

Vietnam Scatterguns

Use of the Ithaca Model 37 in combat was much more prevalent during the Vietnam War. One 1962 contract for 22,000 Model 37 riot guns with 20-inch barrels was for South Vietnamese troops. U.S. military advisors to South Vietnamese forces used at least a few of these shotguns. Additional Model 37 riot guns were manufactured for U.S. forces and marked with the “U.S.” designation. A substantial number of these Model 37s went to the U.S. Navy SEALs. In 1963, a very small number of Model 37 trench guns with bayonets—a little over 200—were supplied to the USAF. Another contract for Model 37 trench guns went to the U.S. Navy.

One of the features that made the Model 37 especially appealing to the SEALs and U.S. Army Special Forces in Vietnam was a feature it shared with the long-serving Winchester Model 97 and Model 12 riot and trench guns. The Model 37 did not have a trigger disconnect and, hence, it could be fired very quickly by just holding back the trigger and operating the slide action. Riot or trench guns were often carried by the point man of a patrol and used to quickly clear a trail if an enemy was suddenly encountered. Experienced users would push the Model 37 towards the target with their support hand while holding the trigger back and just cycling the slide. It was faster than most automatic shotguns. I say “most” because I never put a stopwatch on a Model 37 against a Benelli. Although this feature would not be as applicable for law enforcement usage, at least some LE users were well aware of the feature should they have to deal with multiple criminals quickly! I used to have an older Model 37 riot gun with a full-length, seven-round magazine and what some call the “slam fire” feature, which I carried in my vehicle for some years. As I remember, it was an ex-Illinois State Prison gun, which I stupidly sold.

Hands-On Defense

Recently, though, I had a chance to test Ithaca’s Model 37 Defense Gun, the current version of the classic M37 riot gun. The Defense Gun is available with either an 18.5- or 20-inch barrel and a four- or seven-shot magazine. It is also available with a wooden stock and forearm or synthetic furniture. I chose the wooden version with a black Parkerized finish, as it reminds me of the Model 37s I used back in the day. My test gun had the 20-inch barrel and seven-shot magazine.

Like the original, the Ithaca Model 37 Defense Gun ejects downward, which allows for easy use from either shoulder, and when you’re shooting close to walls you don’t have to worry about spent shells coming back at your face. A question that may arise for some is whether the downward ejection makes it difficult to shoot the Model 37 while prone or using low cover. Based on my experience, the answer is that it does not as long as there are a couple of inches of clearance. In simple terms, don’t press the ejection port against the ground or directly against a surface.

Studs for sling swivels at the front of the magazine and towards the rear of the stock make it easy to use a sling on the Defense Gun. Speaking of the stock, it is fitted with a nice, thick recoil pad—a feature I appreciated when shooting 3-inch magnum loads while testing the gun. The forearm is grooved and offers a good gripping surface for fast operation.

Performance

I tested the Ithaca Model 37 Defense Gun with Winchester 3-inch magnum #1 buckshot, 2¾-inch Federal Tactical 00 and #4 buckshot, and Winchester 2¾-inch light-recoil 00 buckshot loads. Patterns were good at 10 and 15 yards. At 10 yards, all 24 of the #1 pellets impacted into the chest area on an IPSC-type target. At 15 yards, patterns opened up some more, with all the Federal 00 buckshot staying on the target, and almost all buckshot from the other loads on it as well.

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The Ithaca was comfortable to shoot and handled well, though it wasn’t as fast as the old classic Model 37, since the ability to hold the trigger back and just “slam fire” was eliminated sometime in the 1970s. It is still a good fighting shotgun—light and handy yet easy to shoot and quite reliable. It offers a definite option for anyone desiring a home-defense shotgun with a bit of history.

For more information on the Ithaca Model 37, visit ithacagun.com or call 877-648-4222.

The post Classic Blaster: The Ithaca Model 37 Shotgun appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.

While Ithaca Gun Company is primarily known for its shotguns, the company is no stranger to pistols and rifles. In fact, between 1942 and 1945, Ithaca made 382,000 Model 1911A1 pistols for the U.S. military.

RELATED STORY: Classic Blaster: The Ithaca Model 37 Shotgun

In 2010, on the eve of the 100th anniversary of the John Browning design, Ithaca introduced its modern version of the venerable 1911.

CARRY 1911

Based on the success of its full-sized 1911s, Ithaca is now offering a Carry version. This pistol comes standard with a full-sized grip frame and a 4.25-inch barrel.

These pistols feature Series 70 trigger systems; billet steel slides with lowered and flared ejection ports; billet steel frames; match-grade barrels and bushings; tool-steel hammers, sears and disconnectors; lightened aluminum triggers; checkered steel mainspring housings; wooden grips and seven-round magazines. And Ithaca’s custom shop offers various finish, grip and sight options.

PRECISION RIFLES

Ithaca’s also developing precision rifles in conjunction with a world-record-holding marksman.

RELATED STORY: 26 New Mid- To Full-Sized Handguns On the Market

Each rifle features a chrome-moly steel billet receiver, a 4140 bolt, and match-grade barrels and triggers. Every action is CNC-machined in-house, and the rifles are assembled by hand for 0.5-MOA.

For more information on the firearms mentioned above and other products from Ithaca Gun Company, please visit IthacaGun.com.

The post Ithaca Gun Company’s Elite Pistol, Rifle Combo appeared first on Tactical Life Gun Magazine: Gun News and Gun Reviews.