Welcome to

Stephen A. Camp’s

Hi Powers and Handguns

  • The Effective Defense Gun

    Forests have been felled to provide paper for this debate; numerous handguns have been created to provide it; new calibers have been spawned and bullet design refined in its name: Effectiveness! But have we really gained anything? I think that the answer is a qualified “yes”. Unlike the ammunition of years gone by, bullets now…

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  • Look, Listen, but Make Up Your Own Mind!

    If you’re reading this, it’s probably because you enjoy shooting and are obviously on the Internet.  Much discussion goes on concerning the “best” handguns for specific purposes, the “best” modifications, the “best” ammunition, and so forth. (This discounts the occasional smart-aleck remark some inevitably drop in the various threads.)  Answers to a specific question will…

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  • Which is best: CZ-75 or Browning Hi Power?

    This is a widely discussed topic on gun boards in recent years and one I’m frequently asked.  There is not a simple answer, but I will submit my observations. If you are not comfortable with cocked-and-locked carry for defensive purposes, I’d go with the CZ.  Though long, the double-action first shot is usually pretty smooth and exceptionally so in…

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  • I’m not a shooter and have no interest in shooting, but want a gun for home protection.  What should I get? 

    The use of any firearm for self-protection requires at least a minimal amount of training.  You must be at least able to safely handle the weapon.  You must be able to operate it without thinking.  In other words, it’s essential that you be able to get it into action without consciously having to think about it. You need to understand how to maintain the firearm,…

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  • What’s the deal with Winchester 9mm Silvertip JHP’s? 

    I’ve heard they’re good, but then I’m told they’re worthless? No longer the flagship bullet for Winchester’s pistol ammunition, the STHP has been eclipsed by Winchester designs like the SXT and Ranger SXT. We now have bonded bullets as well as those in which the jacket plays more of a role in wounding. An example of…

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