Folks frequently ask if the single-action automatic is “better” than the conventional double/single-action pistols which fire the first shot DA with all subsequent shots being single-action. This work will not cover the DAO automatic pistols. The reason is simple. I have no long-term, hands on experience with the DAO. In my observation and experiences as both…
Since I wrote “A Critical Look at the Springfield Armory Mil-Spec” in January 2005, many more rounds have flown downrange and I thought that it might be of interest on how the pistol has held up and any problems. (That article is in this section of the site for those interested.) The pistol worked fine…
STI is a manufacturer of 1911 pattern pistols based in Georgetown, Texas. Their pistols include both single and double stack guns and they’re seen frequently on competition circuits and are sold all over the world. This article will focus on two of their 45-caliber single stacks. One is their workhorse version called the Trojan while…
While reading comparisons of the pros and cons of the pocket 380 versus the snub 38 I noted a reader suggesting a comparison of the pocket nines to the popular 38 compact revolvers. Other projects and responsibilities prevented my starting work on such an article immediately, but during the interim I decided that it might…
Text & Photos by Aaron L. Brudenell I remember the first time I actually saw a Smith and Wesson J-frame .38 Special in person. The pictures in gun books were without perspective, and all those movie and television appearances never seemed to do the revolver justice. I was amazed (and continue to be impressed) with…
The .380 ACP continues to fill pockets or holsters among private citizens lawfully carrying during the turbulent crime-filled times in which we live. Though “ballistically challenged” when compared to the delivery of full-power 9x19mm or even .40 S&W in similar size handguns, the 9mm Short still has a fairly significant cadre within the shooting community. …
It has been said, “With age comes treachery” and some have asked the question, “Why is youth wasted on the young”? I believe that the first is true for some of us and don’t have the answer to the last. I will say that I envy the young their youth. I envy their sharp eyesight, quicker reflexes, but most…