Shooting

How Suppressors Work

Bass Pro Shops — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:08:46 +0000

How Suppressors Work

Bass Pro Shops Wed, 04/08/2026 - 12:08

Category

Shooting

Understanding How Suppressors Work

Have you ever wondered how suppressors actually work?

Let’s start with the basic parts.

Many shooters are curious about what happens inside a suppressor and how it reduces both noise and recoil. In this guide, we will break down the anatomy of a suppressor and explain the simple physics behind it.

Suppressors do not make firearms silent. What they do is manage pressure and gas in a controlled way. That control reduces muzzle blast and can also help with recoil.

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Anatomy of a Suppressor

To understand how suppressors work, you need to understand the main components. While designs vary, most suppressors include:

Outer tube
Baffles or core
End cap
Mounting system

Each part plays a role in sound reduction and performance.

Outer Tube

The outer tube is the body of the suppressor. It holds everything together and must handle extreme heat and pressure.

It is commonly made from:

Titanium
Stainless steel
Aluminum

The outer tube does more than provide structure. It also absorbs heat as hot gases move through the suppressor.

Baffles or Core

The baffles are the heart of the suppressor.

They divide the inside into small chambers. When hot gas enters the suppressor, it does not escape immediately. Instead, it moves through these chambers step by step.

Each chamber slows and cools the gas.

Some suppressors use stacked baffles. Others use a single machined core called a monocore. Both designs work by controlling gas expansion.

End Cap

The end cap seals the front of the suppressor. It has a precise opening that allows the bullet to exit safely.

The alignment must be exact to maintain accuracy and safety.

Mounting System

Suppressors attach to firearms using different systems.

Common types include:

Direct thread
Quick detach

Direct-thread suppressors screw directly onto the barrel. Quick-detach systems use a muzzle device that allows faster removal and installation.

Both systems must keep the suppressor aligned with the bore.

The Physics Behind Suppressors

When a firearm is fired, burning powder creates high pressure gas. That gas pushes the bullet down the barrel. When the bullet exits, the gas follows and escapes at high speed.

That fast release creates the loud muzzle blast.

A suppressor changes how that gas escapes.

Gas Expansion and Velocity Reduction

Inside the suppressor, gas enters the first chamber under high pressure. It expands into that chamber and loses energy.

It then moves into the next chamber.

At each stage:

Pressure drops
Temperature decreases
Gas slows down

By the time the gas exits, it is cooler and under lower pressure. Lower pressure means less intense sound.

Gas Movement Inside a Suppressor

Stage	Gas Condition	Result
Entry	Very hot and high pressure	Loud potential blast
First chamber	Expands	Pressure begins to drop
Middle chambers	Continues expanding	Gas slows and cools
Exit	Lower pressure gas	Reduced muzzle blast

This controlled expansion is what reduces sound.

Muzzle Blast vs Sonic Crack

Two sounds occur when a gun is fired.

The first is muzzle blast from expanding gas. The second is the sonic crack from a bullet traveling faster than sound.

Suppressors reduce muzzle blast but cannot eliminate the sonic crack.

Shooters who want even more noise reduction sometimes use subsonic ammunition.

More about subsonic ammunition:

Sound Comparison

Sound Type	Reduced by Suppressor	Reduced by Subsonic Ammo
Muzzle Blast	Yes	No
Sonic Crack	No	Yes

Rifle Suppressors vs. Pistol Suppressors

Rifle Suppressor

Many people ask whether rifle suppressors and pistol suppressors are made differently.

The answer is that the manufacturing process is very similar.

Both rifle and pistol suppressors are built using precision machining and threading. Both use strong metal alloys that can handle repeated firing. The same engineering principles, baffle designs, and construction methods apply to both types.

However, they are designed for different pressure levels.

Pistol Suppressor

Rifle cartridges produce much higher pressure and heat than most handgun cartridges. Because of this, rifle suppressors are often built to handle greater stress. They may use thicker materials or designs that manage higher temperatures.

Pistol suppressors are usually optimized for lower-pressure rounds. Many include a booster system that allows semi-automatic pistols to cycle properly with the added weight of the suppressor.

Rifle vs Pistol Suppressors

Feature	Rifle Suppressor	Pistol Suppressor
Manufacturing Process	Precision machined	Precision machined
Core Technology	Same design principles	Same design principles
Pressure Handling	Higher	Lower
Booster System	Not typically needed	Often required

Even though they are built for different roles, the core technology behind both types is the same. They all rely on slowing and cooling gas through controlled expansion.

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Suppressors and Recoil Reduction

Suppressors also help reduce felt recoil.

When gas exits the barrel quickly, it creates rearward force. Inside a suppressor, gas is slowed and redirected. As it moves through chambers, it pushes in different directions.

This spread-out force can help reduce recoil and muzzle rise.

Benefits may include:

Softer shooting feel
Faster follow up shots
Improved control

Recoil reduction varies depending on firearm type and suppressor design.

Benefits of Using a Suppressor

Suppressors offer several advantages for hunters and target shooters.

Noise Reduction

Suppressors help reduce the firearm’s sound signature.

Hearing protection is still recommended, but suppression can make shooting more comfortable.

Improved Accuracy

Reduced recoil and muzzle rise can help shooters stay on target.

Reduced Disturbance

Lower noise can reduce disturbance to wildlife and other shooters.

Better Communication

Shooters can communicate more easily between shots.

Suppressors are precision-engineered tools built to manage expanding gas. They reduce muzzle blast by slowing and cooling gas through a series of chambers.

Rifle and pistol suppressors are made using the same machining methods and core design principles. They differ mainly in how much pressure and heat they are built to handle.

Suppressors do not make firearms silent. They do not remove the sonic crack of supersonic bullets. What they do is apply simple physics to reduce noise and help manage recoil.

By understanding both the anatomy and the science behind suppressors, it becomes clear how they work and why they are effective tools for modern shooting.

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Explore shooting gear and outdoor essentials at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's. Whether you are upgrading your setup or researching suppressor-ready accessories, both retailers offer a wide selection for range and field use.

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Even After 500 Years, Beretta Balances Tradition and Innovation

Bass Pro Shops — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 16:08:15 +0000

Even After 500 Years, Beretta Balances Tradition and Innovation

Bass Pro Shops Fri, 03/06/2026 - 10:08

Category

Shooting

Famiglia di Titani

By Eric R. Poole

Introduction

For nearly five centuries, Beretta has defined success not by momentary wins, but by generational achievement. Founded in 1526, the company has passed through 16 generations of family leadership. Today, Beretta Holding S.A. stands as the parent company of a global group that blends artisanal heritage with advanced technology to serve hunters, competitive shooters, military forces, and law enforcement agencies worldwide.

What began as a historical reflection quickly became something else. Conversations with Pietro Gussalli Beretta, President and CEO of Beretta Holding S.A., and his brother Franco Gussalli Beretta, President and CEO of Fabbrica d’Armi Pietro Beretta, shifted from the past to the present and future almost immediately. Their focus is clear: honor tradition, but build for tomorrow.

A Legacy Rooted in the Field

For Pietro Gussalli Beretta, the passion for firearms began early.

He started hunting at age eight with his grandfather, pursuing pheasants with pointer dogs. Over the decades, he hunted across Africa, Asia, and Australia. Today, he prefers Europe’s mountains and wetlands.

Like many in the Beretta family, his earliest lessons in shooting came from previous generations. His grandfather, uncle, and father all played a role. The transmission of knowledge was personal and direct. That generational mentorship continues to shape leadership decisions today.

Building the World’s Largest Firearms Group

Since its founding in 1995, Beretta Holding has grown into the largest firearms group in the world. Under Pietro’s leadership, the company expanded through strategic acquisitions, strengthening manufacturing, distribution, and brand presence.

Today, Beretta Holding:

Generates over $1.8 billion in annual revenue
Operates in more than 20 countries
Employs approximately 6,000 people
Includes over 50 companies and 20 manufacturing sites
Derives more than 40 percent of sales from the United States

Its portfolio includes brands such as Benelli, Holland & Holland, Chapuis Armes, Manurhin, Sako, Tikka, Burris, and Norma.

Recent strategic focus includes negotiations with Ruger. Pietro describes Ruger as a strong cultural fit aligned with Beretta’s philosophy. While acquisitions remain part of future growth, each move is evaluated based on its ability to strengthen the core mission.

That mission is clear: craft reliable, high performance firearms, optics, ammunition, and gear for those who value precision, whether in the field, on the range, or in service.

Civilian, Military, and Law Enforcement Markets

While commercial sales remain the largest contributor to revenue, military and law enforcement business is growing faster. This diversification provides long term stability and positions the company as a key player in global defense markets.

Beretta Defense Technologies was established to serve military and law enforcement clients. Within this alliance:

Steiner eOptics leads in electro optical systems for defense applications
A new Steiner facility in Ohio supports U.S. growth and job creation
Ammotec expanded the group’s ammunition capabilities
Norma strengthens the U.S. civilian ammunition market

Defense innovation often drives advancements that later transfer into commercial and sporting products.

Beretta is also willing to compete again for future U.S. military pistol contracts. While success is never guaranteed, the company intends to remain a serious contender.

Collaboration and Technology Across the Group

Technology development is coordinated across the organization. General managers meet four times a year to share innovation updates. When one company develops a new product or process, sister companies are informed before public release.

Heritage influences these decisions daily. The family has historically reinvested profits into research, equipment, and product development rather than maximizing dividends. That long term view remains central to strategy.

Growth over the next decade will likely come from smaller acquisitions and new product development within core categories: defense, military, hunting, and sport shooting. Leadership recognizes that the industry evolves rapidly, often shifting every five years. Adaptation is constant.

Franco Gussalli Beretta: Manufacturing, Markets, and Modernization

While Pietro focuses on group strategy and financial direction, Franco plays a more hands on role in manufacturing and operations at the historic Gardone Val Trompia factory.

Previous generations divided responsibilities between manufacturing and international expansion. Today, Franco oversees production projects and maintains close dialogue with technical teams. He travels frequently to trade shows and markets to stay connected with customers and industry trends.

He is also preparing the next generation. His son Carlo has entered the company and is being trained in a similar operational role.

Investment in digital manufacturing is a priority. Franco believes growth depends on improving digital capabilities, upgrading equipment, and developing specialized skills across the workforce.

Heritage Meets Innovation

Balancing tradition and innovation is not a marketing phrase at Beretta. It is operational philosophy.

Franco describes it as part of the company’s DNA. The Gardone factory remains the only place where tradition and modern process fully merge. Craftsmanship is preserved, but change is constant.

In earlier generations, major technological shifts occurred every 20 years. Today, change happens every two or three years. Digital transformation and artificial intelligence are becoming part of manufacturing strategy. While skilled workers remain essential, AI tools are being integrated to improve efficiency and precision.

Innovation in Shotguns and Ammunition

Beretta has a long history of segment defining shotgun innovation. The company introduced its first over under shotgun in 1933 and its first semiautomatic in 1955.

Today, innovation increasingly combines firearm and ammunition development. Ammunition technology has evolved gradually, but Beretta sees opportunity in deeper integration between the two categories.

Competitive shooting plays a key role. Professional champions provide direct feedback to engineers, helping refine materials, barrel construction, and shot performance. Details matter at the highest levels of competition. The firearm must feel like an extension of the shooter’s body.

Recent innovations include Benelli’s Advanced Impact barrel system, designed to extend effective range. Tests have demonstrated clay breaks at distances once considered unrealistic.

From Firearms to Ecosystem

Beretta no longer defines itself as only a firearm manufacturer.

Three decades ago, the company expanded into clothing and accessories. Today, leadership views this as essential to delivering a complete field experience. From boots to outerwear, the goal is to enhance the performance and comfort of shooters and hunters.

The future lies in creating an integrated ecosystem of products that serve customers across every aspect of their experience.

The M9 and Global Reputation

Few milestones shaped Beretta’s modern reputation more than winning the U.S. military pistol contract in 1985 with the 92 series, adopted as the M9.

However, Franco emphasizes that winning the contract was only part of the achievement. Fulfilling it at scale transformed the company. Meeting the demands of the U.S. Armed Forces required operational discipline and manufacturing excellence. It elevated Beretta from a respected family company to a global defense leader.

A Long Term Mindset

When asked what advice he would give his younger self, Pietro describes himself as a translator. Each generation receives the company temporarily, not for personal gain, but to pass it forward stronger than before.

That mindset defines Beretta’s approach. Investments are made for future generations. Dividends are sacrificed for innovation. Change is embraced without abandoning craftsmanship.

As Beretta approaches its 500th anniversary, the formula remains consistent: protect heritage, invest in technology, support customers, and prepare the next generation.

After five centuries, the family legacy is not a relic of the past. It is a framework for the future.

Featured Products

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Eric R. Poole

Editor

Eric.Poole@outdoorsg.com

Currently the Editor of Guns & Ammo magazine, Eric R. Poole brings years of service from the U.S. Marine Corps to the world's most widely read firearms magazine. His experience as an armorer and his background with print publications at the NRA lead him into his dream career of working at G&A. Throughout his tenure at InterMedia Outdoors, Eric served as Editor-in-Chief of Special Interest Publications, where he continues to oversee editorial content at-large. An avid hunter, Eric has enjoyed the pursuit of wild game from North America to Africa. Since taking the ropes at G&A, Eric has transformed the look and feel of the magazine while developing a personal connection to his readers.

Read Eric R. Poole's Bio

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Winchester® AA® 60 Years Strong as the Choice of Champions

Winchester — Thu, 01 May 2025 21:03:57 +0000

Winchester® AA® 60 Years Strong as the Choice of Champions

Winchester Thu, 05/01/2025 - 16:03

Category

Shooting

Celebrating 60 Years: Winchester AA Anniversary Edition Shotshells

The roots of competitive shotgun shooting extend back to 18th-century England. Since that time, the shotgun shooting sports have become popular all over the world and evolved from shooting at live pigeons, to glass balls, and finally clay targets. For centuries, competitive shooters have sought the most effective tool to break targets, and that tool is ammunition.

Before the development of AA® target shotshells, Winchester observed a need that would be a major performance enhancement for shotshell loads, particularly target loads – maximum effective pattern. Winchester went to work and, in 1962, introduced the Mark 5 shotshell.

The design of the Mark 5 shotshell created a more effective pattern through the reduction of shot deformation. By utilizing a unique liner and extra hard shot with antimony, shot was protected during passage through the bore and released without disturbance. Competitive shooters were now experiencing more pellets within a 30-inch circle and, more importantly, a uniform distribution of pellets within that circle.

The Mark 5 was immediately accepted by competitive shooters and set a chain of events in motion that would culminate in Winchester introducing the compression-formed shotshell case, with integral tube and base, in 1964. The compression-formed shotshell case was the most substantial advancement in shotshell construction in 50 years and was the strongest, most durable, and most reloadable shotshell case on the market. It also was the final puzzle piece to create the greatest target shotshell in existence.

The learnings and advancements over three years led to Winchester Ammunition, launching the revolutionary AA® target load in 1965. The AA target load was comprised of the best-in-class AA® Wad, extra hard shot, and the groundbreaking compression-formed shotshell case. With the AA, Winchester had created a target load unsurpassed by any other target shotshell in the world.

In the 60 years since the introduction of the AA target shotshell, both recreational and competitive shotgun shooting have significantly gained in popularity and show no sign of slowing down. Winchester continues to improve its lineup of AA target shotshells. Significant advancements over the last six decades include:

Early 1970s: 28 gauge and .410 bore are added to the AA lineup.
1982: 1 oz loads are introduced for the international game of FITASC and as a lower recoil alternative for high-volume trap shooters.
1990: The 25th anniversary of the AA shotshell and the introduction of the Super-Handicap load, arguably the most famous AA load in the lineup.
2001: The Super Sport sporting clays load is developed, offering a 1,300 FPS and a 1oz 1,350 FPS load for the most demanding sporting presentations.
2020: The AA line is extended to include AA Diamond Grade. AA Diamond Grade shot has the highest level of antimony of any shotshell and is copper-plated, allowing for consistently round shot and incredibly tight patterns.

The legendary Winchester AA shotshell has been the most superior target load for six decades. Made in the United States by American workers, the AA shotshell is built to be the best. With high antimony shot, the still-famous one-piece AA wad, and best-in-class powder and primer, AA shotshells provide the most consistent and hard-hitting patterns, shot after shot. From local shooting leagues to elite competitions worldwide, AA shotshells are The Choice of Champions.

Winchester AA Target Loads Shotshells

Feature 1: Offered in a wide range of versatile loads
Feature 2: Designed for trap, skeet, and sporting clays
Feature 3: Concentric lead shot and premium wads
Feature 4: Great for hunting upland birds

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Winchester AA Super-Handicap Heavy Target Load Shotshells

Feature 1: Designed for longer handicap trap ranges
Feature 2: Extra heavy loads of shot and powder
Feature 3: Concentric lead shot and premium wads
Feature 4: Great for hunting upland birds

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Winchester AA Supersport Light Target Loads Shotshells

Feature 1: Outstanding clay-busting performance
Feature 2: Lower dram equivalents for lower recoil
Feature 3: Designed for superior performance in sporting clays, trap, and skeet
Feature 4: Consistent patterns and reliable ignition with every shot

Shop Now

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Winchester continues to improve its lineup of AA target shotshells, with innovations that have kept it at the forefront of the sport. Brand site: Winchester.com

Exploring the Challenges and Rewards of Hunting with a Glock Handgun

Bass Pro Shops — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 17:30:18 +0000

Exploring the Challenges and Rewards of Hunting with a Glock Handgun

Bass Pro Shops Thu, 06/27/2024 - 12:30

Category

Shooting

The wilderness is a canvas for hunters, a place where skill, patience, and the right equipment come together to create moments of exhilarating success. For those who seek to elevate the hunting experience, setting aside the rifle for a Glock handgun might just be the next great adventure. Handgun hunting is not just a test of one's abilities but a journey into a more intimate and challenging form of the sport.

Hunting with a handgun, especially a Glock, is a nod to the purists who appreciate the raw challenge it presents. Unlike the long-range precision afforded by rifles, a Glock demands that hunters step up their game—literally. The need for close-range accuracy means that each stalk is a puzzle, each movement is a calculated risk, and every shot is a moment of truth.

Glock

GLOCK G43x MOS Subcompact Semi-Auto Pistol

The Glock G43X MOS Optics-Ready Semi-Auto Pistol utilizes a single-stacked magazine in 9mm to make it slim and compact, specifically for concealed carry use. Coming in with a slide matching the dimensions of the G43, the G43X features a slightly-larger frame that accommodates a larger round capacity and can fit larger hands more comfortably.

Glock

GLOCK G43X Semi-Auto Pistol

The GLOCK G43X Semi-Auto Pistol has been designed with both a comfortable shooting and conceal-carry experience in mind. While carrying this subcompact design, the compact, Slimline frame feels great in any holster. Its compact grip length, built-in beaver tail, and subcompact-slim slide deliver a balanced, versatile feel while shooting, one that's great for a variety of users.

Why Embrace the Challenge of a Glock in the Wild?

The appeal lies in the complexity. A Glock's effective range is noticeably shorter than that of a rifle, and stability is not as easily achieved. The hunter must therefore become a master of stealth and precision, honing their marksmanship to ensure the shot counts when the distance is closed. It's a humbling and exhilarating way to hunt, bringing you closer to nature and the primal dance of predator and prey.

The Intricacies of Handgun Hunting

Marksmanship: The art of marksmanship becomes even more critical when engaging in handgun hunting with a Glock. Achieving the pinpoint precision required to ethically down game demands rigorous practice and an acute understanding of the firearm's ballistics, as well as an innate ability to compensate for the reduced stability and shorter sighting radius of a handgun.
Stalking: The essence of stalking with a handgun lies in the hunter's ability to merge with the environment and draw near to the prey without alerting it to their presence. Mastery of stealthy movement and terrain navigation, coupled with the ability to read animal signs and predict behavior, elevates the likelihood of positioning oneself within the Glock's limited range for a successful shot.
Caliber Choices: Choosing the right caliber for hunting with a Glock is paramount. While revolvers in heavy calibers have their place, a Glock chambered in 10mm Auto or .45 ACP can be equally formidable for medium-sized game, blending firepower with the reliability of a semi-automatic.
Game Range: Whether pursuing the stealthy deer, the robust hog, or even the formidable bear, the caliber and your skill with a Glock will dictate the success of the hunt.

Navigating the Rules of the Game

Before embarking on a handgun hunting journey, ensure you're well-versed in local regulations. Specific seasons and calibers are often prescribed by law, and respecting these boundaries is part of ethical hunting. Likewise, always prioritize the swift and humane dispatch of the game. This means choosing the right caliber and being confident in your shot placement.

The Hunter's Toolkit

The hunter's toolkit is an essential aspect of preparing for a successful and responsible outing. Adding a scope or red dot sight to your Glock can significantly enhance your precision at a distance, transforming a challenging shot into a more confident pull of the trigger. Meanwhile, a robust holster or a strategically designed chest harness ensures that your weapon is both protected and at the ready, allowing for swift and safe access when the moment of opportunity arises. These critical accessories serve to fine-tune your firearm to the unique challenges presented by the hunting environment, ensuring that you're not just equipped, but fully prepared to meet the demands of the wild with efficiency and effectiveness.

The Undeniable Advantages

The Glock's compact nature is a boon for the mobile hunter, offering an ease of transport that is simply unparalleled by bulkier firearms. This lightweight companion mitigates the hunter's exhaustion, preserving energy during extensive excursions across diverse terrains. Furthermore, in the close quarters of thick foliage, the slim silhouette of a Glock allows for a subtler presence, enabling the hunter to navigate and position themselves with a stealth that is cumbersome with a larger rifle.

Rising to Meet the Challenges

Mastering the art of handgun hunting demands a steadfast commitment to regular practice, as achieving accuracy with a Glock is a skill honed over time through consistent and deliberate training. The inherent challenge of a handgun's limited range necessitates a deep understanding of one's personal shooting capabilities, ensuring that each shot taken falls within an ethical distance to guarantee a humane harvest. Hunters must acknowledge this constraint, typically engaging targets within 50 yards or less, to maintain the integrity of the sport and the welfare of the game.

Final Thoughts

Handgun hunting with a Glock is an invitation to a different kind of hunt. It's a pursuit for those who want more from the experience, who seek to refine their skills, and who revel in the simplicity and nimbleness that a Glock offers. Whether it's the joy of a successful stalk or the satisfaction of a well-placed shot, hunting with a Glock is a testament to the hunter's passion and prowess.

Understanding Glock Pistol Frame Types

Bass Pro Shops — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 17:11:54 +0000

Understanding Glock Pistol Frame Types

Bass Pro Shops Thu, 06/27/2024 - 12:11

Category

Shooting

Glock pistols are renowned for their reliability, durability, and versatility, with a range of frame sizes designed to cater to different shooting applications and user preferences. Choosing the right frame type is crucial for ensuring comfort, ease of handling, and effectiveness, whether for personal defense, law enforcement duty, competitive shooting, or concealed carry. Each frame size, from the full-size models favored by military personnel to the slimline and subcompact options preferred for discreet carry, is engineered with specific use cases in mind. By understanding the nuances of Glock's various frame sizes, shooters can select a pistol that not only fits their hand but also aligns with their operational needs and shooting style.

Glock

GLOCK 17 Gen5 9mm Semi-Auto Pistol

The GLOCK 17 Gen5 9mm Semi-Auto Pistol is the size and caliber that started it all for GLOCK. This is the 5th generation of the legendary polymer pistol. It's the choice firearm of many law enforcement agencies worldwide.

Glock

Glock 41 Gen 4 Competition Pistol

Glock's 41 Generation 4 Competition Pistol combines classic Glock reliability and revolutionary design changes to create handguns that dominate competitive shooting. Polymer grips feature the modular backstrap design which allows for easily interchanging backstraps, creating a custom grip to fit any hand size.

Frame Sizes

Long Slide: Glock's long slide models offer the longest slide on the market, which provides the greatest distance between sights for fast target acquisition and delivers Glock-grade performance. These are ideal for shooters who need improved accuracy and performance at longer distances. Long slide models include the Glock 17L (9mm) and Glock 24 (.40 S&W) catering to the needs of competitive shooters.
Competition: Featuring a slightly shorter slide and barrel than the long slide models, Glock competition pistols are equipped with adjustable rear sights. They are tailored for sports shooters who prioritize accuracy and reliability in their competitive shooting endeavors. Glock competition pistols like the Glock 34 (9mm) and Glock 41 (.45 ACP) cater to the needs of competitive shooters seeking top-tier accuracy.
Standard (Full-Size): The Glock standard models are the classic choice that has been widely adopted by thousands of soldiers and law enforcement officers. These pistols offer optimal magazine capacity combined with Glock's renowned dependability, making them suitable for duty use in various situations. Standard frame Glocks include Glock 17 (9mm) and Glock 22 (.40 S&W) embody the classic Glock design.
Compact: With dimensions that are slightly reduced in both length and height compared to the standard models, compact Glocks pack a strong punch in a more manageable package. They are an excellent choice for those who need a balance between concealability and firepower. Models like the Glock 19 (9mm) and Glock 23 (.40 S&W) offer a compact frame size that makes them popular choices for both duty and concealed carry.
Subcompact: Designed as a pocket-size, double-stack pistol, subcompact Glocks serve as a versatile backup weapon. Despite their small size, they can accept all standard Glock double-stack magazines, making them the most versatile subcompact pistols on the market. Subcompact models include the Glock 26 (9mm) and Glock 27 (.40 S&W).
Slimline: For those who prioritize concealability, Glock's single-stack slimline pistols are the smallest models offered, providing the same trusted accuracy and reliability in a significantly slimmer frame. The Glock 43X (9mm) and Glock 48 (9mm) ultra-slim profile makes these the go-to choice for thousands of concealed-carry users.
Crossover: The Glock 19X is a prime example of a crossover pistol, blending the full-size frame of the Glock 17 with the compact slide of the Glock 19 to create a versatile firearm that excels in a variety of operational environments.

Each Glock model within these frame size categories is designed to meet specific needs, whether it's for competition shooting, everyday carry, or tactical applications, ensuring that there's a Glock to suit virtually any shooter's requirements.

Final Thoughts

Glock's diverse selection of frame sizes offers a tailored solution for every shooter, whether they are seeking maximum firepower and stability from a full-size model or the ultimate in concealability from a slimline design. The right Glock frame enhances a shooter's confidence and performance by providing a comfortable grip, appropriate magazine capacity, and optimal control in any scenario. With the knowledge of the distinctive features and advantages of each Glock frame size, individuals can make an informed decision that best suits their intended use, ensuring a harmonious blend of form, function, and firepower.

Glock

GLOCK G43X Semi-Auto Pistol

Glock

GLOCK G48 Semi-Auto Pistol

The GLOCK G48 Semi-Auto Pistol utilizes a single-stacked magazine in 9mm, specifically to make it slim and compact for concealed carry use. The G48 is similar in length and height of the G19, though the width is reduced for enhanced concealability.

Lever Actions: Versatility to Protect & Provide

Oleg Volk — Tue, 07 May 2024 16:49:12 +0000

Lever Actions: Versatility to Protect & Provide

Oleg Volk Tue, 05/07/2024 - 11:49

Category

Shooting

Introduction to the Lever Action Rifle

In 1860, Benjamin T. Henry of New Haven Arms Company patented the first truly successful repeating rifle, named after the inventor. This revolutionary rifle was a sixteen-shot .44 caliber rimfire lever action. We think of rimfire as practice and small game ammunition, but the original Henry Repeating Rifle delivered ballistics on par with a modern 10mm Auto cartridge – a 200-grain bullet speeding at 1200fps. A reliable tubular magazine and a hammer that was cocked by cycling of the action put it ahead of the competing Spencer which had half the capacity, a manually cocked hammer, and a generally less reliable mechanism. The Henry repeater has inspired American arms designers ever since for hunting, recreation, and defense roles.

The reasons for such popularity were not just because Henry was the first practical high-capacity cartridge rifle. It also had positive extraction with some force behind it, something that neither falling block nor rising block nor trapdoor actions did well. The quote, “Give me a place to stand, and I will move the Earth,” attributed to Archimedes applied to rifle actions, with the lever reliably moving spent brass even from chambers badly fouled with black powder. Lever actions became the means for shoving enemy formations aside.

Why Choose a Lever Action?

Lever action rifles deliver versatility in spades, making them an ideal choice for someone looking for one type of firearm and a consistent manual of arms to fill multiple roles. Lever actions offer a massive selection of rimmed and rimless calibers to fit any task. Once limited to cartridges with flat point bullet profiles, some modern lever action rifles like the Henry Long Ranger utilize a removable box magazine to accommodate the pointed Spitzer-style bullets not usable in traditional tube magazines. Hornady Leverevolution loads use pointed rubber tips to make spitzers safe in tube magazines. Like a bolt action, lever action rifles can accommodate just about anything from the small-but-mighty .17 HMR to iconic revolver cartridges like .357 Magnum and .45 Colt to the heaviest hitting rifle cartridges like .45-70 Gov’t and .308 Winchester, but with an action that makes follow-up shots far quicker. A full-power .45-70 load can drop almost any North American game it where it stands, but lever action rifles provide speedy follow-up shots, just in case.

They’re also more accommodating for left-handed shooters since the action is ambidextrous. Lever action rifles are generally trimmer and more compact than bolt actions of the same caliber and capacity. They handle well indoors, in dense brush, or on the deck of a boat.

Finally, this action suffers less regulatory encumbrance than semi-autos, an important consideration for some jurisdictions in the US and abroad. In the eyes of the public, a gleaming brass 30-30 is a less scary implement than something more martial-looking, though the actual capability of the classic may be greater.

Lever action rifles make quieter hosts for sound suppressors, as no gas escapes from the ejection port. Sound suppressors reduce felt recoil and muzzle flash and reduce the report to the benefit of the marksman and his neighbors alike. To learn more about the practical application of suppressors with lever action rifles for hunting, home defense, or recreational plinking, check out Tactical Meets Practical: Suppressed Henry Lever Action Rifles.

The features that make the lever-action rifle unique make it a smart choice for a do-it-all rifle that can protect the family and put fresh game in the kitchen. With modern ammunition optimized for various tasks, a loaded lever-action rifle in capable hands is a remarkably effective tool. The basic technology may date back to the 1860s, but the design, materials, and manufacturing precision all kept evolving in the meantime.

Choosing the Right Lever Action Rifle

The wide variety of calibers available, multiplied by the diverse barrel lengths, finishes, and brands, presents a bewildering array of choices.

A caliber that’s right in the middle of the power spectrum gives maximum versatility. With .357 Magnum, you can use Federal Hammerdown .357 Magnum 170-grain ammo to drop deer in its tracks, 158-grain hollow-points would do the same to a goblin invading your home, while light and almost recoilless .38 Specials excel for training, plinking, and introducing new shooters to the wonderful world of lever actions. Once you pick the caliber, rifle selection is a matter of checking off the desired features.

Is the rifle threaded from the factory for a sound suppressor or a flash hider?
Is the receiver drilled and tapped for an optics base for mounting a red dot or scope?
Does the rifle have a forend stud for a bipod or a sling swivel?
How long of a barrel would you like for comfortable handling?
Can a light or a laser be easily mounted?

One rifle model with all those features and then some is the Big Boy X from Henry Repeating Arms. It’s a feature-packed, thoroughly modern rifle that’s managed to elevate the entire category of lever action rifles to incredible levels of popularity across America. It checks all the boxes for the features helpful to harvesting a whitetail deer out to 200 yards, popping coyotes to protect livestock, securing the family home from intruders, and – as importantly – having much fun at the range. Crisp trigger, light recoil, and natural handling all add up to make the Big Boy X Model a pleasure to shoot beyond just the practical benefits.

Guns

Henry Long Ranger Lever-Action Rifle - .223 Remington

The Henry Long Ranger Lever-Action Rifle greatly extends the effective range of traditional lever guns by using a 6-lug rotating bolt head, a box magazine, and side ejection port that readily accommodates modern, high-pressure cartridges. The Long Ranger offers the look and feel of a traditional American lever-action, though its design is modern throughout.

Guns

Henry Big Boy X Lever Action Centerfire Rifle

Whether you're looking for your next deer rifle, truck gun, or home defense rifle, the Henry Big Boy X Lever Action Centerfire Rifle is packed with high-performance features, ready for dependable service. A durable synthetic furniture set is equipped with integrated mounting points for a sling and other stud-mounted accessories.

Shooting

How Suppressors Work

Understanding How Suppressors Work

Let’s start with the basic parts.

Anatomy of a Suppressor

Outer Tube

Baffles or Core

End Cap

Mounting System

The Physics Behind Suppressors

Gas Expansion and Velocity Reduction

Gas Movement Inside a Suppressor

Muzzle Blast vs Sonic Crack

Sound Comparison

Rifle Suppressors vs. Pistol Suppressors

Rifle vs Pistol Suppressors

Suppressors and Recoil Reduction

Benefits of Using a Suppressor

Noise Reduction

Improved Accuracy

Reduced Disturbance

Better Communication

Final Thoughts

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Even After 500 Years, Beretta Balances Tradition and Innovation

Famiglia di Titani

Introduction

A Legacy Rooted in the Field

Building the World’s Largest Firearms Group

Civilian, Military, and Law Enforcement Markets

Collaboration and Technology Across the Group

Franco Gussalli Beretta: Manufacturing, Markets, and Modernization

Heritage Meets Innovation

Innovation in Shotguns and Ammunition

From Firearms to Ecosystem

The M9 and Global Reputation

A Long Term Mindset

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Exploring the Challenges and Rewards of Hunting with a Glock Handgun

GLOCK G43x MOS Subcompact Semi-Auto Pistol

GLOCK G43X Semi-Auto Pistol

Why Embrace the Challenge of a Glock in the Wild?

The Intricacies of Handgun Hunting

Navigating the Rules of the Game

The Hunter's Toolkit

The Undeniable Advantages

Rising to Meet the Challenges

Final Thoughts

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Frame Sizes

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Lever Actions: Versatility to Protect & Provide

Introduction to the Lever Action Rifle

Why Choose a Lever Action?

Choosing the Right Lever Action Rifle

Henry Long Ranger Lever-Action Rifle - .223 Remington

Henry Big Boy X Lever Action Centerfire Rifle