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Tag: Saturday Shootaround

  • Saturday Shootaround

    Saturday Shootaround

    It’s Saturday and time for your weekly 2A/shooting roundup, Saturday Shootaround. We’ll dispense with the verse/quotes portion of this week’s edition of the Shootaround due to the volume of news this week.

    First up is the SCOTUS decision in NRA v Vullo. This case centers on the fact that New York State Department of Financial Services Superintendent Maria T. Vullo used her official position to pressure financial and insurance firms into not doing business with the NRA. In a unanimous decision, the Supremes ruled that the 2nd Circuit erred in dismissing the case. The case has been remanded to the 2nd and will be allowed to go forward.

    While the decision is an important one, it is not as cut and dried as it may seem. Sonya Sotamayor – who wrote the opinion – seemed to indicate that Vullo might be able to claim qualified immunity in the case. We’ll find out more as the case goes forward.

    Mossberg has announced a new home defense shotgun, the Silver Reserve Eventide HS12. The HS12 is a shortened version of their Sliver Reserve over-unders. This 12 gauge shotty comes with 18.5″ cylinder bore barrels, a fiber optic front sight and a pair of picatinny rail attachment points. Black synthetic furniture is standard and the overall length is 36″. MSRP for the HS12 is $700.

    One of my favorite GunTubers, Brandon Herrera aka the AK Guy, nearly shocked the political world this week. He was running for the Republican nomination for US House in Texas 23. It looks like he came up 429 votes short. His opponent was a swamp creature named Tony Gonzales. Gonzales voted for more gun control several times during his time in congress.

    https://twitter.com/TheAKGuy/status/1795606927335981239

    While the count is close enough for a recount, it is unclear if one will happen. The State of Texas requires a significant deposit for recounts.

    The Smith & Wesson Performance center has released a new Jerry Miculek signature series revolver. The Model 327 WR is a 9x19mm revolver with a scandium N-Frame and includes an 8-shot titanium cylinder. It has a 5-inch barrel and weighs in at 35.52oz. It has a wood laminate grip and a brass bead front sight along with an optics cut frame with the C.O.R.E.Optic-plate system and a VORTEX COMPDOT 8MOA red dot included. Miculek’s signature model ships in a custom PELICAN hard case with a speedloader and five moon clips.

    Here’s what S&W had to say:

    Designed in partnership with Professional Shooter and S&W Brand Ambassador, Jerry Miculek, the Model 327 WR boasts features that embody speed and accuracy. This lightweight 9MM handgun is built on a scandium N-Frame and includes a titanium cylinder that allows the user to quickly and precisely transition between targets. Included with the brass bead front and adjustable rear sight package, is a Vortex® COMPDOT and C.O.R.E.™ optic-plate system for revolvers, that accommodate a wide range of optics to enhance the shooter’s experience. The revolver also features a JM Signature laminated wood grip that provides optimal ergonomics for any necessary adjustments needed between holster draw and target acquisition.

    At the Smith & Wesson Headquarters Grand Opening weekend in October of 2023, Jerry set two NRA World Records with his Model 327 WR prototype, making history once again and further positioning himself as one of the greatest shooters to ever do it. The records included the fastest time to hit six steel plates at 7 yards from the draw with a 9mm handgun in 2.01 seconds, and the same with a revolver in 1.88 seconds. “Crafted from the blueprint of shooting excellence, the new Model 327 WR is more than just a high-performance firearm – it’s a legacy. With modern upgrades to an already trusted platform, Jerry’s new signature revolver is a tribute to the mastery of precision and the art of sports shooting perfected by Jerry himself,” said Corey Beaudreau, Product Manager.

    The Performance Center® Model 327 WR includes an 8-round capacity, 5-inch ported stainless-steel barrel, smooth double-action trigger and is a limited-release of 1,880 units, to reflect Jerry’s recent record time of 1.88 seconds. The revolver ships in a custom PELICAN® hardcase with a foam insert to safely secure the handgun and all of its included accessories.

    MSRP for the Model 327 WR Jerry Miculek is $3499

    Gun Porn

    Today’s featured gun is truly a piece of American History. It’s a Parker, Snow & Co. .58 cal rifled musket. This particular rifled musket has provenance pointing to belonging to Corporal David C. Laird 4th Michigan Infantry Company A at Gettysburg.

     

    Here’s what the seller has to say:

    NSN, made in 1863, .58 caliber, 40″ armory bright rifled barrel. ID’d Gettysburg musket belonging to Corporal David C. Laird 4th Michigan Infantry Company A. Wounded on July 2nd in the Wheatfield and died from wounds 2 months later. The butt-plate is marked “D.C. LAIRD/CO.A. Scattered surface oxidation is visible on metals surface. Stock is in good plus condition with two cartouches visible. Minor combat wear is present. Bore is very good with minor frosting noted in the grooves, lock plate is dated 1863. Gregory A. Coco’s book “Killed In Action; Eyewitness accounts of the Last Moments of 100 Union Soldiers Who Died at Gettysburg” page 46 describes  Reverend Parvin’s account of meeting Corporal Laird on the field and until he succumbed to his wounds. 

    The buy-now price for this wonderful piece of history is $18500

  • Saturday Shootaround

    Saturday Shootaround

    This week’s verse is Fuzzy Wuzzy, one of the Barracks-room Ballads from Rudyard Kipling. Most of the poems in that collection were written in the vernacular of the time and Fuzzy Wuzzy is no exception. It (relatively) accurately describes the feeling of the English soldiers concerning the Beja warriors who were supporting the Mahdi of Sudan in the Mahdist War. The term relates to the elaborate tiffa hair style favoured by the Hadendoa tribe, a subdivision of the Beja people

    We’ve fought with many men acrost the seas,
    An’ some of ’em was brave an’ some was not:
    The Paythan an’ the Zulu an’ Burmese;
    But the Fuzzy was the finest o’ the lot.
    We never got a ha’porth’s change of ‘im:
    ‘E squatted in the scrub an’ ‘ocked our ‘orses,
    ‘E cut our sentries up at Suakim,
    An’ ‘e played the cat an’ banjo with our forces.
    So ‘ere’s to you, Fuzzy-Wuzzy, at your ‘ome in the Soudan;
    You’re a pore benighted ‘eathen but a first-class fightin’ man;
    We gives you your certificate, an’ if you want it signed
    We’ll come an’ ‘ave a romp with you whenever you’re inclined.

    We took our chanst among the Khyber ‘ills,
    The Boers knocked us silly at a mile,
    The Burman give us Irriwaddy chills,
    An’ a Zulu impi dished us up in style:
    But all we ever got from such as they
    Was pop to what the Fuzzy made us swaller;
    We ‘eld our bloomin’ own, the papers say,
    But man for man the Fuzzy knocked us ‘oller.
    Then ‘ere’s to you, Fuzzy-Wuzzy, an’ the missis and the kid;
    Our orders was to break you, an’ of course we went an’ did.
    We sloshed you with Martinis, an’ it wasn’t ‘ardly fair;
    But for all the odds agin’ you, Fuzzy-Wuz, you broke the square.

    ‘E ‘asn’t got no papers of ‘is own,
    ‘E ‘asn’t got no medals nor rewards,
    So we must certify the skill ‘e’s shown
    In usin’ of ‘is long two-‘anded swords:
    When ‘e’s ‘oppin’ in an’ out among the bush
    With ‘is coffin-‘eaded shield an’ shovel-spear,
    An ‘appy day with Fuzzy on the rush
    Will last an ‘ealthy Tommy for a year.
    So ‘ere’s to you, Fuzzy-Wuzzy, an’ your friends which are no more,
    If we ‘adn’t lost some messmates we would ‘elp you to deplore;
    But give an’ take’s the gospel, an’ we’ll call the bargain fair,
    For if you ‘ave lost more than us, you crumpled up the square!

    ‘E rushes at the smoke when we let drive,
    An’, before we know, ‘e’s ‘ackin’ at our ‘ead;
    ‘E’s all ‘ot sand an’ ginger when alive,
    An’ ‘e’s generally shammin’ when ‘e’s dead.
    ‘E’s a daisy, ‘e’s a ducky, ‘e’s a lamb!
    ‘E’s a injia-rubber idiot on the spree,
    ‘E’s the on’y thing that doesn’t give a damn
    For a Regiment o’ British Infantree!
    So ‘ere’s to you, Fuzzy-Wuzzy, at your ‘ome in the Soudan;
    You’re a pore benighted ‘eathen but a first-class fightin’ man;
    An’ ‘ere’s to you, Fuzzy-Wuzzy, with your ‘ayrick ‘ead of ‘air –
    You big black boundin’ beggar – for you broke a British square!

    It looks like Thompson Center Arms is making a comeback. In an announcement on April 30, Gregg Ritz, former owner of Thompson/Center, said he had re-acquired the Massachusetts-based gunmaker. Ritz previously sold Thompson/Center to Smith & Wesson in 2007. S&W announced its plans to sell the brand in 2021, and subsequently ended production. The newly launched website has this to say:

    America’s Master Gunmaker™

    Thompson/Center Arms has been a cornerstone of the firearms industry since 1967. With a diverse range of products catering to hunters, shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts, Thompson/Center Arms has earned a reputation for excellence. Thompson/Center Arms looks to build upon its legacy while embracing the future with a renewed commitment to American made quality, innovation, and unmatched customer satisfaction.

    NEW PRODUCT LINE LAUNCHING 2025

    Several TC firearms have had homes in my collection. In fact there are a couple of TC Compass bolt rifles in my safe as I type.

    Some of you have/are dealing with the VA and their ‘fiduciary’ program and the loss of gun rights that go with that program. There was an amendment to strip the VA of that particular power proposed by Rep. Eli Crane’s (R-AZ) to restore veterans’ gun rights. Two putative Republicans voted against it, Reps. Michael Bost (R-IL) and Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen (R-American Samoa). Radewagen is a delegate, not a voting member of the House, so that really leaves Crane. If you’re in Crane’s district, call and let him know he was wrong. He can be reached at (202) 225-3361.

    This next piece hits close to home for me. Literally. Three Upstate NY men and another from South Carolina were busted on gun charges. The men charged are Charles Baker, 26, of Brewerton, Jeremy Baker, 23, of Syracuse, John Leone Jr., 52, of Elbridge and Brian Lawson, 23, of South Carolina. From CNY Central:

    An investigation led by the AG’s Organized Crime Task Force (OCTF) recovered 31 firearms and receivers, including 18 ghost guns or parts used to make ghost guns, dozens of high-capacity magazines and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. The following firearms and components seized include:

    • Nine Polymer80 and AR-15 style unfinished frames/receivers, used to assemble ghost guns
    • Nine unserialized and unregistered Polymer80 ghost gun pistols
    • Nine serialized unregistered firearms
    • Three AR-15-style rifles
    • One 7.62 assault rifle
    • Dozens of magazines, including several extended magazines classified as high-capacity ammunition feeding devices
    • Hundreds of rounds of ammunition

    A couple of points here. First, New York has arguably the most stringent firearms laws in the country. Second, Polymer80 hasn’t shipped to NY since 2018. Third, the unfinished frames and receivers are not illegal here, at least not yet.

    I have to admit I have little sympathy for these 4 men. They knowingly broke state and probably federal laws. Are the laws they broke unconstitutional and unjust? You bet your ass they are. But they are still the law. At least for now. . .

    Gun Porn

    This week’s gun porn is an interesting bit of history. It’s a Maynard Patent #7 Improved Hunting Rifle.

    Here’s what the seller has to say:

    This fine Maynard Patent Model 1873 single shot rifle appears to be an Improved Hunter’s Rifle No. 7 in one of the various thick base 40 caliber Maynard centerfire cartridges. The overall length is approx. 36″. The 20″ round 40 caliber centerfire barrel has a very good bore with good rifling and light firing erosion. The front sight is a Beach combination style and the rear sight has two flip up leaves (replacing an earlier sight). The barrel has approx. 85% blue turning brown. The case hardened receiver is a smooth mottled silver intermixed with brown. The receiver markings are present but light due to a light stamping on the case hardened action. The 1873 model stamp is distinct. The buttstock is very good with scattered light usage dents and dings and most of its original varnish finish. The lever has the most likely special order checkered pistol grip, usually associated with higher grade guns, installed. The action functions correctly. This very nice example of the scarce Model 1873 Maynard No. 7 Hunter’s rifle is ready for your single shot rifle collection.  

    Before you ask, the gap between the barrel and breech face is supposed to be there. This rifle is chambered in one of the Maynard patent thick base cartridges. The base fills the gap and seals the chamber.

    1873 Maynard .40-40 cartridges

    The Buy Now price for this rare and unique rifle is $2350

  • Saturday Shootaround

    Saturday Shootaround

    Welcome to Saturday Shootaround, the weekly 2A and shooting roundup here at MVAP. This week’s verse was written by Pavel Friedmann. ‘The Butterfly’ was written at Theresienstadt concentration camp on 4 June 1942. On 29 September 1944, Friedmann was shipped to  Auschwitz where he was murdered after selection.

    The last, the very last,
    So richly, brightly, dazzlingly yellow.
    Perhaps if the sun’s tears would sing
    against a white stone…

    Such, such a yellow
    Is carried lightly ‘way up high.
    It went away I’m sure because it wished
    to kiss the world goodbye.

    For seven weeks I’ve lived in here,
    Penned up inside this ghetto
    But I have found my people here.
    The dandelions call to me
    And the white chestnut candles in the court.
    Only I never saw another butterfly.

    That butterfly was the last one.
    Butterflies don’t live in here,
    In the ghetto.

    The NICS numbers for March 2024 are in. There were 2,626,068 checks run for the month. That’s an increase of about 200k over last month, but a decline of around 400k from last year. Keep in mind, those numbers are not a one-to-one indicator of the number of guns sold. The NICS system is also used for some other purposes.

    Ever wonder what would happen when a police department becomes the sole firearms dealer in a specific area? Well, that was the case in Washington DC from at least April 3, 2020, until January 4, 2021. The DC police were the only place a District resident could legally acquire a handgun for those 7 plus months.

    They processed background checks for and transferred 8,038 firearms. They also wound up in an BATFE program called ‘demand 2’. Under that program, FFL dealers that have more than 25 guns they’ve processed in a given year show up at a crime scene, get heightened scrutiny of their operations. That scrutiny involves quarterly records checks and more frequent IOI (industry operations inspectors) visits.

    Around 2% of all dealers are part of the demand 2 program in a given year. For 2023, there were 1323 FFLs in the program out of approximately 65,000 dealers.

    I ran into a rifle I hadn’t seen before at my local the other day. It’s the Stevens 334. They’re built in Turkey and imported by Savage. It is a nice looking little rifle and it comes in at a $450 price (MSRP $509).

    Here’s what Savage has to say:

    Where value and performance meet, is where the Model 334 bolt action rifle excels. The rifle features a crisp trigger and a 60-degree bolt lift to allow faster loading on follow-up shots. The barrel is free-floating and button rifled for consistent accuracy. Offered in three popular calibers, the Model 334 is available in a Turkish Walnut stock option with a silver bolt or a black synthetic stock with a matte black action to match.

    FEATURES
    • 3-Position Safety
    • Crisp Trigger
    • 60 Degree Bolt Lift with 3-Locking Lugs
    • Ergonomic Stock and Recoil Pad
    • Matte Black Synthetic Stock or Turkish Walnut Stock Options
    • 3 Round Detachable Box Magazine
    • Matte Black Carbon Steel Receiver with Integrated Recoil Lug
    • Drilled & Tapped Receiver (Savage M110 Spacing) with Steel MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny Rail
    • Free-floating, Button Rifled, Carbon Steel Barrel with 11°Target Crown
    • 2-Sling Swivel Studs

    The 334 is currently available in .308, .243 and 6.5 Creedmoor. I am currently working on getting my hands on one for a test, so stay tuned.

    This week’s gun porn is an interesting piece, even for gun porn. It’s an Ebert parlor rifle built in the schuetzen style and chambered in 4mm Flobert.

    I suppose some explanations are in order. Parlor rifles were a common thing in the late 1800s among a certain segment of the population. They were used for indoor shooting, hence the appellation “Parlor”. 4mm Flobert is a rimfire cartridge that uses solely priming compound to launch a 4.3mm lead ball. They have a muzzle velocity of up to 600 fps.

    Here’s what the seller has to say:

    Antique German Salon or Parlour rifle in 4mm Flobert, made by Ebert of
    Neuburg in Bavaria. 635mm octagonal false barrel with 150mm  micro
    groove insert – market St. George Munich. OAL=1035mm, LOP=335mm,
    weight = 3.25Kg. The hammer will move the transfer rod. Only the front 
    trigger is active, rear one is a finger rest! Nice walnut stock with carved
    decoration and curved schutzen style butt. Iron sights and tang mounted 
    peep sight. Original wood and metal patina, not restored, good bore. 
    Add this Germanic belle epoque rifle to your collection.

    4mm Flobert cartridge

    Current bid is $806 and the auction ends April 7 at 1730.

  • Saturday Shootaround

    Saturday Shootaround

    It’s Saturday and time for your weekly 2A and shooting post here at MVAP. Instead of a verse, we’re going to start this week’s Shootaround with a collection of quotes.

    A man can never have too much red wine, too many books, or too much ammunition”

    Rudyard Kipling

    Remember the first rule of gunfighting … have a gun.”

    “The purpose of the pistol is to stop a fight that somebody else has started, almost always at very short range.”

    Col. Jeff Cooper

    The way to reason with a predator is to make it aware that it can live in a cage, or it can die, but it can no longer prey upon us.”

     “Firearms, if you think about it, are power tools. They drill holes in things and chew things up. That’s their purpose. The purpose of the user is, quite simply, to puncture and destroy the right things and not the wrong things.”

    Massad Ayoob

    The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) is one of the pro-2A groups getting stuff done. They recently had a minor victory in Pennsylvania. Before we get to that, some background is in order. Back in 2020, SAF filed a suit in PA, Lara v Evanchick, that challenged some of that state’s restrictions on under-21s to transport handguns.

    Pennsylvania law generally allows for individuals over the age of 18 years-old to openly carry firearms without a License to Carry Firearms (LTCF). However, the law provides for extremely limited transportation of firearms absent a LTCF – allowing an individual to take an unloaded firearm from their home to only certain locations. As a result, people without LTCFs may not take an unloaded firearm from their home to most locations in order to then openly carry for self defense. To compound the issue further, the law does not allow for an individual under the age of 21 to apply for a LTCF. 

    As a result, Young Adults (ages 18-20-years-old) are unable to acquire licenses and are barred from exercising their right to bear arms outside the home. The Second Amendment’s plain text, as informed by this nation’s history and tradition, reveals that prohibiting the bearing of arms by Young Adults is constitutionally impermissible. There were no colonial or founding era laws that restricted the rights of Young Adults to keep and carry arms. 

    After having the case dismissed by US district Judge William Stickman, SAF and FPC filed an appeal to the 3rd Circuit court of appeals. In January a three judge panel of that court reversed and remanded it to the lower court. At this point the state of Pennsylvania is enjoined from enforcing the transport provisions on under 21s.

    Here’s the minor victory. PA requested an en-banc rehearing on the matter. The court refused. That means the state cannot enforce the transport ban.

    More winning. This time in Virginia where Governor Glenn Youngkin vetoed a raft of gun control bills. H/T Rogue Unicorn:

    HB2 and SB2 would have banned many commonly owned semi-automatic centerfire rifles, pistols, and shotguns manufactured after July 1, 2024. Additionally, the legislation would have imposed arbitrary magazine limits and discriminated against young adults by prohibiting them from purchasing certain firearms.
    HB183 and SB368 would have mandated firearm storage requirements in the home.
    HB318 and SB491 would have subjected firearm industry members to frivolous lawsuits. This legislation would have been detrimental and costly to the industry and would have made it more challenging and expensive for you to exercise your constitutional rights.
    HB466 would have diminished opportunities for those with out-of-state concealed carry permits to carry in the Commonwealth. Currently, Virginia recognizes all out-of-state valid concealed carry permits. This bill would have instituted a new standard, which could cause some states to lose recognition.
    HB585 would have banned home-based firearm dealers from opening or continuing to operate if they were located within 1.5 miles of any elementary or middle school. This extreme radius would have caused many firearm dealers to lose the ability to operate their small businesses.
    HB1174 and SB327 would have discriminated against young adults by disallowing them to own certain handguns, rifles, and shotguns.
    HB1195 and SB273 would have imposed a mandatory five-day waiting period for firearm purchases.

    Good news for denizens of the Old Dominion.

    This is a bit of older news, I probably should have covered it before. Anyway, GunTuber Brandon Herrera forced a primary runoff in his race to be the Representative from Texas congressional district 23. The incumbent, Tony Gonzales, nominally R, faced censure from the Texas GOP over his anti-2A votes in the aftermath of the Uvalde school shooting. Herrera, known as “the AK Guy” owns a gun building company in Texas as well as creating content for YouTube. He may soon add US Representative to his resume.

    Gun Porn

    This week’s gun porn features an antique rifle, The Whitney-Kennedy. Produced as both a rifle and a carbine, the Whitney-Kennedy was a slight redesign of the 3rd model Burgess rifle. It was initially chambered in .44 WCF. Total production of all variants of the Whitney-Kennedy are estimated at approximately 23,500. Later models introduced other chamberings like .40-60 and .45-75.

    Here’s what the seller has to say:

    For bid is a Whitney Kennedy 44-40 Cal. Lever Action Rifle.  Rifle is in great shape for its age.  As expected, there are signs of wear as well as some period gunsmithing at the screw points. Rifle is old enough to qualify as an antique so does not require an FFL. Please confirm with your state laws to confirm no FFL will be required. 

    Whitney Kennedy 44-40 Cal. Lever Action Rifle, #C256 on lever, 24” oct. bbl., mfg. from 1880 until 1886.

    Starting bid on this rifle is $2700. The auction ends at 2047 today. As of this writing there are no bids on this wonderful piece of history.

  • Saturday Shootaround

    Saturday Shootaround

    Welcome to Saturday Shootaround, your home for all things 2A and shooting related. This edition of Shootaround will be a little abbreviated, there isn’t a whole lot of legal news to cover this week.

    As usual, we start with a poem. This week’s selection is The War in the Air by Howard Nemerov. Nemerov was a pilot in the US Army Air Corps during WWII and eventual Poet Laureate of the Library of Congress.

    For a saving grace, we didn’t see our dead,
    Who rarely bothered coming home to die
    But simply stayed away out there
    In the clean war, the war in the air.

    Seldom the ghosts come back bearing their tales
    Of hitting the earth, the incompressible sea,
    But stayed up there in the relative wind,
    Shades fading in the mind,

    Who had no graves but only epitaphs
    Where never so many spoke for never so few:
    Per ardua, said the partisans of Mars,
    Per aspera, to the stars.

    That was the good war, the war we won
    As if there was no death, for goodness’s sake.
    With the help of the losers we left out there
    In the air, in the empty air.

    Sig Sauer has announced a new rifle – the MCX Regulator. It mates their MCX piston driven upper with a traditionally stocked lower.

    Here’s what Sig has to say about it:

    Introducing the MCX-REGULATOR, using the heart and soul of the legendary MCX platform combined with a proprietary lower design, all built around shooter ergonomics comes a whole new level of MCX modularity. Never before has a ranch rifle possessed the DNA of a rifle used by elite Special Forces operators around the world.

    The MCX-REGULATOR is an aluminum frame rifle with a gas-piston operating system, a Magpul™ SGA Mossberg 500/590 traditional stock combined with a redesigned lower receiver compatible with all MCX upper receivers. It has a fully ambidextrous magazine release, safety selector, and bolt catch. The MCX-REGULATOR ships with a two-stage match trigger, a cold hammer-forged carbon steel barrel, a SIG-designed muzzle brake, and is available in 7.62×39 and 5.56 calibers. The MCX-REGULATOR offers a built in Arca Rail for easy tripod mounting and ships with a 10-round magazine.

    MCX-REGULATOR FEATURES:

    • Reduced Weapons Visual-IR Signature GEN II NiR FDE
      Cerakote
    • Magpul™ SGA Stock – Mossberg 500/590/590A1 
    • Fully Ambidextrous Mag Release, Safety Selector, and Bolt
      Catch
    • SIG-Designed Compensating Muzzle Brake
    • Receiver Integrated ARCA Rail
    • Lower Receiver Compatible with All MCX Upper Receivers
    • 3 MOA ROMEO2 Red Dot Installed on RX2 model

    It’s an interesting rifle if you live in a state with restrictions like NY or CA. Sig can be cagey about MSRP, and this is no different. I’d expect this rifle to land in the $2500-$3000 range. That’s quite a bit more than other rifles in that particular segment like the FightLite SCR, but unlike that gun, you’ll probably see this one in the racks at your local.

    Uberti, the Italian repro gun maker, has a new gun out. The 1873 short rifle Hunter is a modern-ish take on the Winchester 73.

    It’s available in .45 Colt and .44 Remington magnum. Both models have a 20″ barrel and 10 round capacity. Uberti has this to say about it:

    With straight-wall cartridges becoming a popular choice in formerly shotgun-only states, Uberti is proud to introduce a line specifically  dedicated to this form of big-game hunting. Available in .45 Colt and  .44 Magnum, the 1873 Hunter Rifle and 1873 Hunter Revolver offer  the ability to shoot today’s most cutting edge hunting loads safely and effectively. Both rifle and revolver come with standard open sights,  but included in the box is an easily-mounted Picatinny rail for those desiring a scope or a red dot sight. 
     

    The 1873 Hunter Rifle comes with a rubber butt-pad, an ergonomic pistol-grip stock, and a 10+1 round capacity tubular magazine.  Moreover, the extra-tough all-black action is designed to withstand  .44 Magnum pressures (.44 Magnum only. Standard pressure loads  are recommended for .45 LC model). 

    While I’m not sure about the pistol grip, it was an option on the original 73. I should also point out that the Picatinny rail does not come pre-mounted. It does come in the box and requires removal of the rear buckhorn sight for installation.

    Gun Porn

    This week’s Gun Porn is a very nice Eddystone made Model of 1917 Enfield rifle.

    I suppose a little history is in order for this one. Prior to WWI, the Brits had designed a new infantry rifle to replace the venerable SMLE MKII. Called the P-13, it was chambered in a new round, the high pressure .276 Enfield cartridge. When WWI broke out, the Brits needed rifles, badly, and contracted with several US companies to produce the new rifle, but without the new chambering. This rifle, now chambered in .303, was called the P-14.

    Fast forward a few years, and the US is about to enter the war and required a lot of new rifles. Instead of retooling to manufacture the Springfield 1903, the War department decided it would be better if the factories building P-14 rifles, Eddystone Arsenal, Winchester and Remington, simply rechambered them to .30-06. By the end of the war, more than three quarters of the AEF was equipped with the Model of 1917 Enfield. One highly notable user of the 1917 was none other than Alvin C. York. He used one during the action that netted him the Medal of Honor. History lesson over.

    The seller’s description is short to the point of curtness. Here it is:

    US Eddystone Model Of 1917 chambered in .30-06 and dated 1918

    This rifle is in very good condition, the bore is bright and shiny with strong rifling. The metal has traces of the original bluing, the wood is in very nice shape, the name “A.Tate” is carved in it next to the ejection port. C&R OK

    High bid at the time of writing is $872. If I didn’t already have a couple of examples of this rifle in my collection already, I’d think about dropping a bid on it.

    Update: The auction for this gun closed and it sold for $1027 plus fees and taxes.

  • Saturday Shootaround

    Saturday Shootaround

    Err, Sunday Shootaround. . .

    Welcome to your weekly 2A roundup, Saturday Sunday Shootaround. This week’s verse was written by Randall Jarell. Jarell was a navigator in the USAAF during WWII. the poem is titled The Death of the Ball Turret Gunner, and was written about his experiences during the war.

    From my mother’s sleep I fell into the State,

    And I hunched in its belly till my wet fur froze.

    Six miles from earth, loosed from its dream of life,

    I woke to black flak and the nightmare fighters.

    When I died they washed me out of the turret with a hose.

    While looking for news and stuff for this column, I ran across an article by Tom Knighton over at Bearing Arms. In the piece, Tom talks about author Larry Correia. Some of you may know his work. I do, though I haven’t read any in quite a while. Anyway, Larry wrote a fantastic facebook post on Fudds and gatekeeping.

    Unfortunately, I can’t get the post in question to embed here, so here’s most of it:

    I’ve got to address a really idiotic take that I see from gun guys a lot, and that’s crying about video games. As in some angsty bullshit like “hurumph these kids with the tacticool dots and lights and shit think this is Call of Duty but they ain’t respecting the real life experience of us elders hurumph hurumph.” They’re almost always old, and they’re almost always stagnant in their shooting, but think they’re all that and a bag of chips.

    First, off there’s a 100% chance this dude also whines about us losing the culture war while he bitches about video games like we’re still living in 1995 where video games aren’t a mega huge industry, big games crush hit movies by orders of magnitude, and it’s a totally mainstream activity for kids AND adults.

    I hate to break it to you old grumpy bastards, stuff like Call of Duty has turned more normies into gun people over the last 20 years than anything the NRA has done. (which side note, is another reason Wayne LaPierre pissed me off, with his blaming crime on violent video games like we’re fucking Tipper Gore crying about rock music or something, and I’m happy to see his corrupt and totally out of touch quisling ass get the boot). . .

    And those 20 year old kids you’re crying about, who’ve reliably had anti-gun propaganda crap rammed down their throats their entire lives by TV and movies and school and everything around them… Can also identify every single evil black rifle on a well stocked gun store wall by its in game name and they are super fucking pumped when they get the opporutnity to shoot one in real life… If you elitist assholes would get off your elitist fud ass and actually show them.

    I sold hundreds of guns to hundreds of newbs this way, and it friggin’ rocked. And most of those guys end up being pro-gun for the rest of their lives. And more importantly, pro-gun where it counts, on the stuff the antis are actually trying to ban, unlike the old snob bastards who’ve been fine with banning ARs as long as the gov leaves their classic wooden deer rifle alone. And thank God that generation of assholes are finally dying off, because putting up with their snooty shit for the last 30 years has driven me mad.

    but but but games aren’t real life! Well no shit, sherlock. Only the strawmen in your imagination actually think that. They’re not training. They’re an entertainment medium which makes our thing look AWESOME. John Wick isn’t real life either, but it’s sold a lot of fucking guns. And not that these old bastards will admit it, but most of them at some point got influenced by culture too, which is why they bought their first musket because it was the same one Davey Crockett used. Hell if I know, the point is they are usually really fucking old. . .

    Larry Correia Facebook

    Why am I covering this? It’s pretty simple actually; if we want to continue enjoying our 2A rights we need to bring more youths into the fold. I shoot, a lot, at a wide variety of ranges and I run into this kind of gatekeeping crap almost everywhere. I, and several of my regular shooting partners, go out of our way to show newbs how to shoot, how to set up their gear and be generally encouraging and helpful to them. I would also point out one of our authors here at the site, WhiteKnightLeo, came into the 2A community via video games.

    So, next time you’re at the range and you run into a young person, take a minute and give them a bit of encouragement not criticism.

    A New York jury has ruled that former NRA executive VP Wayne LaPierre owes the organization more than a million bucks. LaPierre and former treasurer Woody Phillips were accused of violating their fiduciary duties to the organization. Judge Joel Cohen will also decide if an outside monitor will be appointed in a bench trial starting in May. LaPierre’s fate with the NRA will also be decided at that time, as the jury recommended that he be barred from working for or serving on the board of the group.

    While the suit was pretty blatantly politically motivated, I’m of the opinion it was a Good Thing for the NRA in total. LaPierre and his closest advisors had been treating the org as their private fiefdom for far too long.

    Full disclosure, this editor is a lifetime voting member of the NRA. That said, I have not given them a penny in a long time. I prefer donating to groups that actually do work in the 2A space like GOA and FPC.

    Louisiana took an important step in becoming the 28th Constitutional carry state. The LA Senate passed SB 1, a bill that would allow lawful gun owners to carry without the need for a government-issued permission slip. The Thursday 28-10 vote fell mostly along party lines. The bill now heads to the House, where the Republicans have a 73-32 advantage.

    Gun Porn

    This week’s gun porn is a very nice Winchester 71 chambered in .348 WCF. As usual this piece is up for auction at GunBroker. Here’s what the seller has to say about it:

    Up for sale is a VERY NICE Winchester Model 71 chambered in .348 WCF!  This BEAUTY features all original wood and bluing.  I would grade this rifle overall at a 95%!  The down grade coming from small dings in the wood.  This beast is ready for its next hunt or Winchester Collector!  DO NOT miss out on your chance to get this VERY RARE rifle at a LOW price!  I have done my best to get every angle of this rare piece pictured but if you would like more or have any questions, don’t hesitate to shoot me a message!  Thanks and Happy Bidding!

    Based on the photos in the listing, I’d give it a 85-90% rather than 95%. The wood is a little rough for a higher rating. Current high bid is $1358 and the auction closes at 2100 today.

  • Saturday Shootaround

    Saturday Shootaround

    Welcome to Saturday Shootaround, your spot for all 2A and firearms related news. Instead of a verse this week, here’s a selection of 2A quotes:

    “The great body of our citizens shoot less as times goes on. We should encourage rifle practice among schoolboys, and indeed among all classes, as well as in the military services by every means in our power. Thus, and not otherwise, may we be able to assist in preserving peace in the world… The first step – in the direction of preparation to avert war if possible, and to be fit for war if it should come – is to teach men to shoot!”

    Theodore Roosevelt

    “The rifle itself has no moral stature, since it has no will of its own. Naturally, it may be used by evil men for evil purposes, but there are more good men than evil, and while the latter cannot be persuaded to the path of righteousness by propaganda, they can certainly be corrected by good men with rifles.”

    Colonel Jeff Cooper

    We’re starting this weeks news with a bit on the shooting that happened at the KC Chiefs victory Parade in Kansas City this week. Despite all that you may have heard, there was only one death, 43 year old  Lisa Lopez-Galvan, and 22 others were injured.

    We know that two ‘juveniles’ have been arrested for the shootings. The entire incident looks to be gang related, but you won’t hear that from the MSM.

    Speer just announced that USSOCOM just issued a contract for 8.5 million rounds of their Gold Dot G2 9mm ammo. The G2 version of the venerable Gold Dot (full disclosure, this editor runs Gold Dot ammo in his carry guns) is consistently at the top of the FBI ammo testing.

    The Hawaii state supreme court ruled last week that there is no Second Amendment in that state.

    In Wilson v the State of Hawaii, a case I was not all that familiar with until recently, the appellee, Christopher Wilson was initially charged with posession of a firearm without a licence and a couple of other charges including criminal trespass.

    He was convicted and appealed. The appeals court vacated that conviction in light of both Bruen and Heller. The State appealed the ruling to the state Supreme court and won and this is where it gets weird. The ruling starts this way:

    Article I, section 17 of the Hawaiʻi Constitution mirrors the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution. We read those words differently than the current United States Supreme Court. We hold that in Hawaiʻi there is no state constitutional right to carry a firearm in public.

    In other, plainer words, the Hawaii supreme court just said FU to SCOTUS. It only gets worse from there. Opinion author, Justice Todd Eddins takes several pages to parse both the 2nd Amendment and the Hawaiian version of the same. He also takes several shots at SCOTUS. At one point he invokes the spirit of Aloha to justify the ruling.

    In Hawaiʻi, the Aloha Spirit inspires constitutional interpretation. When this court exercises “power on behalf of the people and in fulfillment of [our] responsibilities, obligations, and service to the people” we
    “may contemplate and reside with the life force and give consideration to the ‘Aloha Spirit.’”
    The spirit of Aloha clashes with a federally-mandated lifestyle that lets citizens walk around with deadly weapons during day-to-day activities. (citations omitted)

    I highly doubt that SCOTUS will take this lying down. I fully expect this particular case to wind up there before too long.

    CCI has a new .22LR load out now. The Uppercut is optimized for 2.5-4″ barrels. It launches a 32 grain jacketed bullet at 950fps from pistol length barrels. Jacketed bullets are a bit unusual in .22LR, as that caliber uses a heeled bullet. The jacket helps keep fouling to a minimum and provides uniform expansion. MSRP for a box of 50 is $12.99

  • Saturday Shootaround

    Saturday Shootaround

    After taking a week off, Saturday Shootaround, your place for 2A and firearms related news, returns. Today’s verse comes to us from another British WWI trooper, Isaac Rosenberg. Rosenberg was a member of the Kings Own Royal Lancasters and was killed in combat near Arras France in 1918.

    Break of Day in the Trenches

    The darkness crumbles away.
    It is the same old druid Time as ever,
    Only a live thing leaps my hand,
    A queer sardonic rat,
    As I pull the parapet’s poppy
    To stick behind my ear.
    Droll rat, they would shoot you if they knew
    Your cosmopolitan sympathies.
    Now you have touched this English hand
    You will do the same to a German
    Soon, no doubt, if it be your pleasure
    To cross the sleeping green between.
    It seems you inwardly grin as you pass
    Strong eyes, fine limbs, haughty athletes,
    Less chanced than you for life,
    Bonds to the whims of murder,
    Sprawled in the bowels of the earth,
    The torn fields of France.
    What do you see in our eyes
    At the shrieking iron and flame
    Hurled through still heavens?
    What quaver—what heart aghast?
    Poppies whose roots are in man’s veins
    Drop, and are ever dropping;
    But mine in my ear is safe—
    Just a little white with the dust.

    There was an interesting incident at the Indiana state Capitol building this week. Several high school gun control advocates affiliated with Students Demand Action confronted Indiana state Rep Jim Lucas over the right to carry. One of the kids asked Lucas if he carried a firearm. What makes this incident interesting is the fact Lucas was carrying at the time and brushed back his coattails to show the students.

    “I’m carrying one right now,” Lucas said.

    “Nothing about that makes me feel safe,” replied the student. . .

    A student next told Lucas that people carrying firearms do not make them feel safe but rather threatened, prompting the following exchange:

    “OK, those are feelings,” Lucas responded. “I’m talking facts.”

    “That’s what this is about; this is about feelings,” replied the student.

    “People who want to kill you don’t care about your feelings,” Lucas said.

    Video of the incident wound up online, because of course it did. The reaction was mixed to say the least.

    The students said they were caught off guard when Lucas showed his weapon. Alana Trissel, 17, said her heart dropped to her stomach. 

    “It was though all of my previous arguments were just invalid because I knew that at any given circumstance, he could end the entire conversation by choosing to end any of our lives,” Trissel said. “I just knew that that conversation wasn’t really a conversation because there was nothing I could say. I just felt unprotected and unsafe.”

    What Alana failed to realize is that her arguments were invalid even without a gun. Facts always trump feelings. A lot of somebodies failed that girl, and her fellow gun control activists.

    SHOT show has come and gone. Unlike past years, there wasn’t anything new that really interested me. It was the usual assortment of boutique ARs, rehashed pistol designs and tarted up optics. That said there were a couple of announcements/releases of note.

    Ruger announced the gen 2 American rifle. It features a new stock, spiral barrel flutes and a new 3 position safety. MSRP is $729 for either the standard or the Ranch versions.

    L, Standard R, Ranch

    Christensen Arms, known for their high-end hunting and precision rifles, has announced the Evoke, a sub-$1000 rifle. The base model has an MSRP of $899. It comes with a proprietary Christensen Arms action 
with a 3-lug bolt and 60-degree bolt throw, detachable magazine, hybrid grip angle, premium adjustable trigger, 416R stainless steel suppressor-ready barrel with an RFR-style brake and swivel sling studs. The upgraded models add a picatinny rail and adjustable cheek risers.

    On the legal front, there was a big win in Commiefornia this week courtesy of St Benitez. U.S. District Judge Roger T. Benitez ruled the California ammo background check law unconstitutional. This law also prevented Californians from bringing back ammo purchased out of state. From the ruling:

    It is Senate Bill 1235’s requirement of a background check for every purchase that is challenged here. Why the egislature eliminated the voter-approved 4-year permit system in favor of an everypurchase background check scheme is not apparent. Without prejudging the discarded 4-year permit system envisioned by the voters of California, such a system would clearly be a more reasonable constitutional approach than the current scheme.

    Today, a person may choose to submit to a full credit check to buy an automobile. But he is not required to pass the same credit check every time he needs to refill his car with gas or recharge his battery at a charging station. And the Constitution does not mention a right to own automobiles (or carriages or horses). Similarly, when a person chooses to buy a firearm, he is required to undergo a full background check. However, until now, he was not required to also go through a background check every time he needs to refill his gun with ammunition. And the Bill of Rights commands that the right to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. With the recently enacted ammunition background check laws, gun owners in California undergo background checks more than one million times each year simply to buy ammunition. They are not allowed to buy ammunition from out-of-state vendors and have it delivered to their homes. They are not allowed to buy ammunition in Arizona or Nevada and bring it with them back into California. Though they are citizens entitled to enjoy all of the constitutional rights, Californians are denied the Second Amendment right to buy ammunition for self-defense at least 11% of the time because of problems with the background check system.

    As of this writing, the ruling is in effect but the state has appealed to the 9th circus.

    The South Carolina State Senate just approved constitutional carry in that state. The bill was passed in the state House last year but will have to return to that chamber for a reconciliation vote as the language of the Senate version is slightly different than that of the House version. After that it goes to Governor Henry McMaster’s desk for his signature.

    Gun Porn

    This week’s gun porn is a one-off revolver made as a fundraiser for the Cody Firearms Museum at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, located in Cody Wyoming. It started life as a Ruger Vaquero chambered in .45 Long Colt. This one-of-a-kind wheel gun has been dubbed the “Jade Vaquero” because of the Jade grips. Here’s what the Cody Firearms Museum has to say about it:

    Product Description:
    Embark on a journey through craftsmanship and artistry with “The Jade Vaquero,” a Ruger Vaquero that transcends the boundaries of firearm design. Meticulously handcrafted by the esteemed artist Paul Lantuch, this masterpiece is a testament to precision, luxury, and history. Engraved in the Ruger Custom Shop, The Jade Vaquero is the featured revolver in the 2024 SHOT Show Auction. Key Features: “The Jade Vaquero” boasts a commanding 7 1/2″ barrel, chambered in the iconic .45 Long Colt. Every inch of this firearm is adorned with extensive hand engraving by Paul Lantuch, transforming it into a true work of art. The pièce de résistance is the majestic 24kt gold eagle, masterfully overlayed on the blast shield, symbolizing strength and freedom with every detail.

    Auction for a Cause:
    This event is brought to you by the generous support of Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc., The Ruger Custom Shop, and Baron Engraving. These industry leaders share a commitment to preserving and educating on the rich heritage of firearms. The beneficiary of this auction is the Cody Firearms Museum, ensuring that your bid not only secures an exceptional firearm but also contributes to the preservation and education of future generations about the important role firearms have had and continue to play in American history.

    Exclusive Presentation Case:
    “The Jade Vaquero” package is completed with a custom handmade presentation case crafted from wood and wrapped in Nubian goat skin leather. This unique case not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the firearm but also serves as a testament to the unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines every aspect of this auction item.

    Own a Legacy:
    “The Jade Vaquero” is not merely a firearm; it is a legacy, a fusion of art and function. As you participate in this auction, envision this masterpiece becoming the crown jewel of your collection, symbolizing an appreciation for craftsmanship and a commitment to preserving firearms history. Don’t miss the opportunity to make “The Jade Vaquero” yours while contributing to a noble cause. Bid generously and be part of the narrative that shapes the legacy of this exceptional Ruger Vaquero and ensures future generations continue to understand and cherish America’s firearm traditions and freedoms.

    About Us:
    The Buffalo Bill Center of the West, located in the Cody and Yellowstone areas of Wyoming, is truly a must-see American destination. It houses five different museums, a research center as well as other special rotating exhibitions. A highlight of the center is The Cody Firearms Museum. This mecca for firearms enthusiasts houses over 10,000 artifacts including more than 4,000 firearms and is undoubtedly the most comprehensive firearms museum in the United States if not the world.

    Founded in 1991 and completely redesigned in 2019, the Cody Firearms Museum has attracted the support of the firearms industry as whole since its inception. For the last three years Baron Engraving has shown its support by creating highly collectible one-of-a-kind hand-engraved rifles that are auctioned off to generate financial support that directly benefits the museum.

    Please note that one hundred percent of the proceeds this auction will benefit the Cody Firearms Museum and help ensure that future generations are provided an immersive opportunity to learn about the important role firearms have played in shaping human history and existence.

    The auction for this gorgeous gat has ended with $20026 being raised for the Museum. If you want to see some really high-res images of this masterpiece, go to this link.

  • Saturday Shootaround

    Saturday Shootaround

    Welcome to Saturday Shootaround, your weekly foray into the 2A news and notes. As usual, we start with a verse. This week it is the final stanza of ‘Dulce et Decorum Est’, by Wilfred Owen (1893-1918). Owen was an English soldier who was gazetted the Military Cross – the second highest military honor in the British army at the time – for his actions near Joncourt France in 1918. He was killed in action exactly one week and one hour before the Armistice was signed.

    If in some smothering dreams, you too could pace
    Behind the wagon that we flung him in,
    And watch the white eyes writhing in his face,
    His hanging face, like a devil’s sick of sin;
    If you could hear, at every jolt, the blood
    Come gargling from the froth-corrupted lungs,
    Obscene as cancer, bitter as the cud
    Of vile, incurable sores on innocent tongues,—
    My friend, you would not tell with such high zest
    To children ardent for some desperate glory,
    The old Lie: Dulce et decorum est
    Pro patria mori.

    Let’s start with the news that Wayne LaPierre is stepping down as CEO and executive vice president of the NRA. Before I get into this, I probably should disclose that I am a lifetime NRA member. I won the membership in a competition in the Army. Ok, that’s out of the way, now on to my thoughts. At some point in the past 10-15 years the NRA lost its way. A big part of the problem was Mr. LaPierre. It seemed to me that LaPierre was more interested in the perquisites of the job than the actual job itself.

    While I consider the suit politically motivated, the legal actions by Letitia James, the New York AG, laid bare a lot of financial shenanigans at the organization. LaPierre and those around him used NRA donations as their private slush fund, spending hundreds of thousands on tailor bills and catering. Frankly, I haven’t sent the NRA a dime in a very long time because of rumors about just that. Maybe now the NRA can get back to doing what It was founded to do; protect and defend gun rights.

    On a side note if you feel called to donate to a 2A group, consider the Firearms Policy Coalition or Gun Owners of America, both do yeoman’s work on the gun rights front. Your state and local gun rights groups are also a good choice.

    There were some new options in optics announced this week.

    First up from Vortex, two new Venom scopes have been released, a 3-15×44 and a 1-6×24 LVPO. The 3-15 is built on a 34mm tube and features a first focal plane reticle and an MSRP of $649.99. The 1-6 is built on a 30mm tube and features an illuminated second focal plane reticle and is listed at $449.99

    L, Vortex Venom 1-6×22, R, Trijicon Tenmile 5-25×50

    Meanwhile, Trijicon has announced 3 (2 and a half really) new scopes. The new Tenmile HX 5-25×50 FFP scope has a red/green illuminated reticle, a 30mm tube and an MSRP of $2195. the other scopes are versions of the 34mm 1-10×28 Credo LPVO, one with a tactical style m-rad reticle and the other has a hunting friendly MOA reticle. Both have the same red/green illumination as the Tenmile. MSRP for the two Credo scopes is $2150.

    The Illinois ‘assault weapons’ registration law went live on New Years day, but it seems there is mass non-compliance with the new regulations. According to the numbers I’ve seen, less than 1% of Illinoisans have actually registered their guns and magazines. It also seems that the Illinois State Police will not be actively looking to charge anyone under this new statute. That said, if someone gets nailed for something else and happens to have an unregistered gun or mag, expect them to get hammered. . .

    Mossberg has just announced a new OU option, the 20 gauge Gold Reserve. This new chambering has an MSRP of $1135, so it’s not going to break the bank. It has 3″ chambers, 30″ barrels and comes with a set of 5 choke tubes. It is made in Turkey, but don’t let that scare you off, some Turkish guns are well made. I’ve handled the 12 gauge version of the Gold Reserve and it has a quality feel, I expect the 20 to be the same.

    This week’s gun porn is a matched set of early 19th century French percussion duelling pistols. The starting bid is $2250. Here’s what the seller has to say:

    Pair of French Percussion Dueling Pistols, Likely 1830’s – 1840’s
    Set triggers
    Nicely engraved and detailed.
    .54 caliber
    8 1/2″ finely rifled barrel

    This is an intriguing pair of pistols. I have to wonder if they have any bodies. . .

    The seller happens to be local to me, so I may take a trip to go check these pistols out in person. If I do, I’ll report back.

  • Saturday Shootaround

    Saturday Shootaround

    Welcome to the weekly 2A fever dream.

    This weeks verse is Wartime Christmas by Joyce Kilmer. Born in New Jersey in 1886, Kilmer enlisted in the US Army in 1917 and served in the Fighting 69th in Europe during WWI. He was on a reconnaissance mission with ‘wild’ Bill Donovan when he was killed by a German sniper near Seringes et Nesles France on 30 July 1918.

    Led by a star, a golden star, The youngest star, an olden star, Here the kings and the shepherds are, Akneeling on the ground. What did they come to the inn to see? God in the Highest, and this is He, A baby asleep on His mother’s knee And with her kisses crowned. Now is the earth a dreary place, A troubled place, a weary place. Peace has hidden her lovely face And turned in tears away. Yet the sun, through the war-cloud, sees Babies asleep on their mother’s knees. While there are love and home—and these— There shall be Christmas Day.

    Now on to the 2A news. . .

    US district court Judge Cormac Carney issued a preliminary injunction on parts of California SB 2, the Bruen response bill. The sections enjoined were the so-called sensitive places sections of the law and prevents enforcement of the new gun free zones. Carney described SB 2 as “repugnant to the Second Amendment, and openly defiant of the Supreme Court.” The law “turns nearly every public place in California into a ‘sensitive place,’” according to Carney, “effectively abolishing the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding and exceptionally qualified citizens to be armed and to defend themselves in public.” The injunction covers the following “gun-free zones” established under SB 2:

    • Hospitals, mental health facilities, nursing homes, medical offices, urgent care facilities, and other places where medical services are customarily provided,
    • Public transportation
    • Establishments where “intoxicating liquor” is sold for consumption on the premises
    • Public gatherings and special events
    • Playgrounds and private youth centers
    • Parks and athletic facilities
    • Department of Parks and Recreation and Department of Fish and Wildlife property, except hunting areas,
    • Casinos and gambling establishments
    • Public libraries, zoos, and museums
    • Places of worship
    • Financial institutions
    • Privately-owned businesses open to the public
    • Parking areas (including those adjacent to “sensitive places” not challenged by the plaintiffs)

    The remainder of SB 2s provisions are being challenged in separate suits.

    Smith & Wesson have released a new take on the old Sigma line of pistols, the SD9 2.0. If you know anything about the Sigma/SD9, that was the pistol Smith got sued by Glock over and lost. They had to pay Gaston a royalty for every one sold. The reboot has a redesigned slide and frame. Here’s what S&W has to say about it.

    The perfect package for those looking for a “do-everything” handgun from the most trusted brand in firearms, without breaking the bank. Featuring an updated trigger and more aggressive slide serrations, the next generation of SD is built to do it all.

    Offered in 9MM, the new generation of SD from Smith & Wesson offers brand new performance benefits at a budget friendly price. The trigger in the SD 2.0 is an enhanced flat-face design, giving better feedback during the pull, break, and reset when shooting.

    The addition of new serrations on the slide gives you better surface area to manipulate the pistol. The SD 2.0 offers an impressive 16+1 capacity in a utilitarian side, making it perfect for duty, home defense, concealed carry, or just a day on the range. SD 2.0 offers white-dot sights and is compatible with standard SD accessories like holsters, lights, and lasers.

    MSRP for either the full capacity 16rd version or the compliant 10rd is the same at $349.99. Once they start hitting the shops, I’d expect them to retail for around $325. Unfortunately, Commiefornia isn’t going to be getting these, as they aren’t on the registry. Massholes won’t get them either but not due to any registry issues, but because they don’t come with a Mass compliant 10lb trigger.

    In firearms industry news, Colt CZ group just acquired ammunition manufacturer Sellier & Bellot. S&B is known as more of a value brand here in the US, but they manufacture quality ammo and supply several militaries throughout the world. They are also the lone(ish) source for a variety of obsolete military cartridges.

    https://twitter.com/Sheeps62/status/1736236758562431379?s=20

    Imagine being this person. What kind of life do you have to lead to get that worked up over a toy? Also it’s fucking Sheels. They sell real guns and all sorts of outdoors gear. I’ll admit it’s a regional chain, but they operate 32 stores in 15 states.

    Here’s another newly released gun for you from Heritage manufacturing. You may know Heritage from their Rough Rider rimfire pistols and revolving carbines. They have just announced the Heritage Badlander, a 12ga side by side. The all steel receiver features a tang safety and double triggers. All the metal is finished in a black oxide while the wood stock and forend have a dark walnut finish. MSRP is $849.

    This week’s gun porn takes us back to late 1936/early 1937 and a bit of American Gun history. We have here today for your approval a pair of Winchester Model 70 rifles, serial numbers 1 and 2.

    Here’s what the seller has to say:


    Absent anything short of absolute certainty these rifles stand among the world’s most important and valuable sporting arms. That they are paired presents an unequaled acquisition opportunity. 

    Both have a captivating history. According to Roger Rule’s The Rifleman’s Rifle, serial number 1 was marked on January 20, 1936. As Winchester records are unavailable so far as supporting a proper factory letter is concerned, the actual shipping date and destination are unknown. As detailed in Winchester Model 70 No. 1, a feature article appearing in the June, 1990 issue of American Rifleman (copy included), the current owner’s uncle purchased the rifle from a hardware store in Durango, Colorado during the 1937 hunting season. Whether new or used when the sale was wrung, the rifle was already fitted with a Lyman receiver sight. Upon returning from the hunting trip, the owner had the rifle drilled and tapped in order to install a 10x Fecker scope, then hunted with it for the next forty years. In 1977, after using it over the course of several deer seasons, the current owner formally acquired the rifle – it still wearing the Fecker and with the Lyman sight in tow. Staggeringly, another ten years passed before a chance showing resulted in a dealer getting the vapors and blurting out a surprisingly high offer. This sparked a curiosity which lead to the realization that his plain old Model 70 was the first of its kind. With significant reservation, the rifle was retired from hunting after 50 years of faithful and flawless service.

    Published in 1982 by Alliance Books, The Rifleman’s Rifle did much to expand and solidify collector interest in Winchester pre-64 Model 70 rifles. Quite naturally, the owner of the number 1 rifle acquired a copy as part of his research. Page 193 carried a photo of serial number 2 from Rule’s collection, and page 52 showed a photo of a letter from Richard Pelton, Winchester’s Director of Marketing dated March 6, 1980. Written to Mrs. Ethel M. Lied, the letter mentions the January 20, 1936 marking date for the number 1 rifle and also states that assembly of Model 70 rifles did not begin until 1937. Pointedly, the letter references Mrs. Lied’s inquiries as to the value of her rifle – serial number 2. No doubt, ownership of the number 2 rifle passed to Roger Rule at approximately this time. At some point thereafter, the number 2 rifle was presented for sale at a major gun show attended by the owner of rifle number 1. As things tend to do, one lead to another and ownership transferred. 

    To no surprise, both rifles are of “standard” configuration and chambered in .30-06 Springfield.

    Serial number 1 condition: The bore remains smooth, strong and viable. Drilling/tapping for scope mounting includes 2x on the barrel just forward of the rear sight boss and 2x on the front ring. The rear sight is absent and the dovetail is protected with a “plug”. Overall metal finish is approximately 65 percent, as expected after 50 years of use in the hunting fields. Wood integrity is strong (absent cracks or chips). Wood finish condition is approximately 60 percent overall. Checkering is smoothing. Finish is thinning or absent in places and a general distribution of field impressions and scratches are in evidence. The bolt body is faintly marked “1” in electric pencil (or similar).  The Fecker scope is viable and remains optically clear, with surface finish of approximately 70 percent.

    Serial number 2 condition: The bore remains smooth, strong and viable. Drilling and tapping for scope mounting includes 2x on the front ring. Overall metal finish is approximately 75 percent. Wood integrity is strong (absent cracks or chips). Wood finish condition is approximately 70 percent overall. Checkering is strong. A general distribution of field impressions and scratches are in evidence. The bolt body is faintly marked “2” in electric pencil (or similar).

    Inclusions: In addition to a complete bound set of American Rifleman magazines from 1990 with the referenced article, a personalized letter detailing the known history and transfer details of the rifles will be provided by the owner. 

    Price is firm and an installment sale may be arranged following a suitable, non-refundable deposit. The pair will not be separated. All transportation arrangements and associated costs are the responsibility of the purchaser.

    That price? $1.7 million. That’s a bargain if you’re still looking for a Christmas gift for this Editor. . .

    Yah, I know. But to be honest, if I were anywhere close to having that kind of money, I’d buy this pair in a heartbeat. Just to say I owned an important piece of American history.