Almost since handguns hit the scene there has been an effort to reduce their size for carrying and concealment purposes. Examples would include the small derringers and pepperbox handguns that settled many a dispute over who actually won a hand of poker. The Peacemaker had its barrel shortened and ejector rod removed and was sold…
That the .45 ACP is a popular self-defense cartridge in the US is an understatement. It is probably the “yardstick” by which other defensive cartridges are measured. Most popular is probably the full-size 1911 having a 5″ barrel, but smaller handguns are frequently used. Some people are just not comfortable with cocked and locked carry and a…
In 1973, IMBEL of Brazil quit producing their version of the .45 ACP 1911 pistol as the military had decided to go with the Nato standard 9mm and had adopted the Beretta Model 92 pistol. A Brazilian subsidiary of Beretta was producing the Model 92, but was bought by Taurus who has been selling the…
The CZ-75 and its “off-spring” have caught on with shooters not only in the US, but also wherever handgunners have any choice in their personal sidearm. This all steel recoil-operated, locked breech, semiautomatic handgun was originally brought out in 9x19mm and that’s the caliber we’ll be looking at in this article. Pre-Ban magazines are conventional double-stack and…
A gentleman Emailed, suggesting that these two makers be included in the “best buy” category. I’d been planning to do the CZ pistols, but realized that his suggestion on the other maker was a very valid one. I currently only own one Ruger firearm and it’s a rifle, but I will give you my impressions of the…
I prefer to believe that others who have been shooting longer than I have are reading this board now and again. It makes me feel younger. I know some that came down the trail a bit after I did are and there are some that have just gotten into handgunning while others have been in the shooting…
Though Star pistols are no longer made, there appears to be many out there and at reasonable prices. The pistols do generate some interest among shooters so I’ll pass along my experiences with them, good and bad. The first centerfire pistol I purchased as an adult was a Star Model B 9mm. It was bought…