The Armory: Handguns
© 2006 RogueTurtle.com
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In the first issue of The Armory, I explained that my very first choice for a survival weapon (assuming you will buy only one weapon) is the pump action, 12 gauge shotgun.
While I am a personal fan of Remington firearms, almost any major manufacturer of quality firearms would be just fine for a survival weapon.
While there are hundreds of makes and models of shotguns out there to purchase, there are thousands of types, styles, and sizes of smaller handguns. Let's face it, you just cannot walk around your survival camp 24 hours a day carrying a loaded shotgun. It's not a practical thing to do. The shotgun gives you massive "stopping power" as well as a means to hunt game of all sizes. But sometimes, you are going to have to put it down and rest. You don't want to be unarmed during those time periods when the shotgun is out of reach.
WHAT'S OUT THERE?
Anything you want. Handguns, a.k.a. pistols, are primarily defensive weapons. No rational human being uses handguns for assaults, but there are a lot of irrational people out there who do just that. The law enforcement outlook on the use of handguns (deadly force) is to meet deadly force with equal or greater firepower. That brings us right back to threat assessment again. What can you reasonably expect to face in the future from a weapons threat? Good question.
The same handguns and other weapons that are available to you are available to the bad guys, and then some. That means there is virtually no limit. Bad guys don't use their own money to purchase weapons, they use money stolen from others, or as a result of drug sales or political affiliations. They have more money than you do. So their weaponry can be better than yours if you let it. Since the "bad guys" aren't hampered by laws, ethics or morals, their weaponry could include explosive devices and fully automatic weapons. It's scary out there. Fortunately, this type of person is NOT the norm, but the exception. Unfortunately, you have to plan on the worst case scenario.
LET'S TALK TRUTH
To carry a firearm in the United States today is a responsibility not to be taken lightly. Most Americans are law abiding citizens who work hard for a living. It is only a few anti-social crooks and thugs that make the news. The Constitution of the United States gives us the right to bear arms. Federal and State laws are becoming more and more rigid about carrying and owning weapons. In order to protect our rights it is our responsibility to follow these laws to the letter during normal peaceful conditions. The firearms listed here are LEGAL to own, and when used responsibly are a safeguard for our personal liberty and protection of our families. It is only during a predicted time of social anarchy that most of the rules go out the window. Until then, follow all the Federal and State laws.
Five Rules for Concealed Carry
1. YOUR CONCEALED HANDGUN IS FOR PROTECTION OF LIFE ONLY. Draw it solely in preparation to protect yourself or an innocent third party from the wrongful and life-threatening criminal actions of another.
2. KNOW EXACTLY WHEN YOU CAN USE YOUR GUN. A criminal adversary must have, or reasonably appear to have:
A) the ability to inflict serious bodily injury (he is armed or reasonably appears to be armed with a deadly weapon),
B) the opportunity to inflict serious bodily harm (he is physically positioned to harm you with his weapon), and
C) his intent (hostile actions or words) indicates that he means to place you in jeopardy -- to do you serious or fatal physical harm.
When all three of these attack potential elements are in place simultaneously, then you are facing a reasonably perceived deadly threat that justifies an emergency deadly force response.
3. IF YOU CAN RUN AWAY -- RUN! Just because you're armed doesn't necessarily mean you must confront a bad guy at gunpoint. Develop your "situation awareness" skills so you can be alert to detect and avoid trouble altogether. Keep in mind that if you successfully evade a potential confrontation, the single negative consequence involved might be your bruised ego, which should heal with mature rationalization. But if you force a confrontation you risk the possibility of you or a family member being killed or suffering lifelong crippling/disfiguring physical injury, criminal liability and/or financial ruin from civil lawsuit. Flee if you can, fight only as a last resort.
4. DISPLAY YOUR GUN, GO TO JAIL. Expect to be arrested by police at gunpoint, and be charged with a crime anytime your concealed handgun is seen by another citizen in public, regardless of how unintentional or innocent or justified the situation might seem. Choose a method of carry that reliably keeps your gun hidden from public view at all times.
You have no control over how a stranger will react to seeing (or learning about) your concealed handgun. He or she might become alarmed and report you to police as "a man or woman with a gun." Depending on his or her feelings about firearms, this person might be willing to maliciously embellish his or her story in attempt to have your gun seized by police or to get you arrested. An alarmed citizen who reports a "man with a gun" is going to be more credible to police than you when you're stopped because you match the suspect's description, and you are found to have a concealed handgun in your possession.
Before you expose your gun in public, ask yourself: "Is this worth going to jail for?" The only time this question should warrant a "yes" response is when an adversary has at least, both ability and intent, and is actively seeking the opportunity to do you great harm.
5. DON'T LET YOUR EMOTIONS GET THE BEST OF YOU. If, despite your best efforts to the contrary, you do get into some kind of heated dispute with another person while you're armed, never mention, imply or exhibit your gun for the purpose of intimidation or one-upmanship. You'll simply make a bad situation worse -- for yourself (see rule #4).
Firearms Tactical
SURVIVAL RESPONSE TO WEAPONS THREATS
"He who fights and runs away, lives to fight another day". Demosthenes, 338 B.C. This famous quote is still as valid today as it was thousands of years ago. No family group will be capable of a sustained firefight with determined attackers. Without foresight and planning, you won't be able to react. You will need sufficient weapons to 1). Stop or deter any attacker who threatens you or your family, and, 2). Give you sufficient time to escape from the threatening situation. That's right — RUN!
Survival means continuing to live no matter what. Running away is not cowardly — it is prudent. It may go against the grain of the macho types out there, but protection of your family IS YOUR ONLY DUTY.
To give you the tools to escape, you will need sufficient firepower of your own to get away to a safer location. The purchase, training and use of the pump action shotgun is a GOOD START. But, there will be times when you may need to augment your firepower.
AVOID THE SITUATION
Remember the PROPER PRIOR PLANNING PREVENTS POOR PERFORMANCE saying I have been preaching since day one of this web site? It holds doubly true when weapons are involved. Your first planning steps must include the selection of a sanctuary — and the route to and from the sanctuary — that avoids as many potential problem areas that is humanly possible.
Avoiding trouble is always the best plan. Don't let yourself get into a position where you will need to use deadly force. If you are driving around and come across a group of "bad guys" with weapons, either turn around and drive away or get out of the area as fast as you can. The three areas I foresee as the most dangerous during a disaster are:
A. Gasoline stations: The mad last minute rush to fill up gasoline tanks has, in the past, been the site of many armed confrontations. Proper prior planning says you should already have filled up your tanks well ahead of time, and possibly have extra fuel hidden away in a safe location known only to you and your family.
B. Food stores: Same thing. Long food lines, scared and impatient people and stores running out of food to sell. Shootings have occurred from panicked hoodlums trying to beat the system. If you've already laid in sufficient survival food, you do not have to be placed in the long food lines, thereby avoiding this potential trouble spot.
C. Looting areas: We all watched it on TV. Your route of travel must avoid (if at all possible) areas of potential rioting and looting. Don't get killed because someone else wants to steal a load of shoes. That's a silly reason to die.
Most of these problem areas I point out above are found in high density population centers (cities) regardless of where they are. Most of the TV coverage came from the east or west coast of the U.S., but the potential is there for any highly populated area of the country. It is NOT a racial problem, it is a PANIC problem combined with GREED. Avoid these areas by pre-planning your route to avoid all these areas. America is a dichotomy of reactions to emergency. On one hand, emergencies can bring out the best in people helping people. On the other hand, those with no social conscience see emergencies as an excuse to revert to barbarism, rape, robbery and murder. Fortunately, the vast majority of Americans are good people. They far outnumber the "bad guys".
By anticipating the behavior of a small number of thugs, you can react — in strength — to prevent injury to you or your family. The "bad guys" rely on the fact that typical Americans don't fight back when threatened. We have been taught all our lives to let the police and other agencies take care of us. But, that won't always happen. "You never have a cop around when you need one". Sound familiar? During crisis situations, law enforcement may be hours or days or weeks away from helping you. The survivalist outlook is to take care of yourself. Nobody knows how to do it better than your do.
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Anarchy:
Anarchism, the belief that all forms of rulership are undesirable and should be abolished. The original concept was for volunteer membership or citizenship.
While rather benign in its original concept, the term is used today in a contemptuous way to describe "any act that used violent means to destroy the organization of society."
Doomsayers believe that the overpopulation of the earth, the scarcity of natural resources, disease and tribalism must eventually result in global anarchy. They've been saying this same thing since early Roman times, however.
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THE "TOOLS" FOR SELF DEFENSE
DEADLY FORCE HANDGUNS
Let's take a look at many different types, sizes, caliber, and uses for a BUNCH of weapons:
REVOLVERS
Probably the most reliable of all the handguns on the market. They have the fewest moving parts, are easy to clean, and shoot accurately. Some are best used from a concealed location on your body; some require a heavy belt to hold a strong holster.
SINGLE ACTION REVOLVERS vs. DOUBLE ACTION REVOLVERS
These terms are used for both revolvers and semi-automatic operation. The terms means how many steps it takes to make the firearm actually fire.
SINGLE ACTION is a contradiction in terms. It takes two steps to fire a single action only weapon. One single action is to use your thumb and pull the hammer back to the firing position. The next "single action" is to pull the trigger, releasing the hammer to hit the bullet and make it fire.
DOUBLE ACTION is only one step. When you pull the trigger, the hammer moves to the firing position and continues through to fire the bullet. Whoever came up with these terms obviously didn't know how to count. Some weapons have the capability of BOTH single and double action.
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"Colt Western Fireams"
Introduced in 1873, no Colt revolver has earned greater fame than the Single Action Army. In design and performance, in line and form, no more sculptural and practical Colt has ever been created. Movies serve as constant reminders of the role this equalizer played in winning the West.
This is the revolver that started it all.
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Seen on the left, most revolvers have a swing-out cylinder with 5 or 6 holes that hold one bullet each. A simple latch opens the cylinder for both loading and unloading the weapon. The "ratchet" shown here is how the weapon's internal works rotate the cylinder each time the hammer comes up into the firing position.
Some manufacturers use a different system to load the cylinder, but they are the exception, not the rule. They "break open" to expose the cylinder.
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As the hammer swings forward to strike the bullet, a firing pin forcefully moves forward to strike the primer cap on the bullet. The firing pin may be attached to the hammer itself, or be a separate smaller piece that stays inside the frame of the weapon. Either way, when the firing pin hits the bullet, it goes off.
For a very good review on the revolver, see How Stuff Works.com They have an animated drawing of the internal works that is great.
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RT IS NOT GOING TO SHOW YOU ANY SINGLE ACTION (ONLY) REVOLVERS. They are too slow to use and fire for today's defensive environment. I am sure that western fans will disagree but for the average citizen who does not plan on using western "quick draw" style shooting, the single action revolver is much too slow to use effectively. I know I'll hear about this from single action fans.
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DOUBLE ACTION REVOLVERS
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Taurus USA.com
Model: 608SS6 Caliber: .357 MAG Capacity: 8 Barrel Length: 6-1/2" Porting: Yes Action: DA/SA Finish: Stainless Steel Grips: Rubber Weight: 51 oz Construction: Steel Frame: Large Front Sight: Fixed Rear Sight: Adjustable Trigger Type: Smooth Length: 11-5/8" Width: 1.760" Height: 5.99" Rate of Twist: 1:16" Grooves: 5 Safety: Transfer Bar UPC: 7-25327-32016-6 Order #: 2-608069 MSRP: $570.00
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Model: 608SS4 Caliber: .357 MAG Capacity: 8 Barrel Length: 4" Porting: Yes Action: DA/SA Finish: Stainless Steel Grips: Rubber Weight: 44 oz Construction: Steel Frame: Large Front Sight: Fixed Rear Sight: Adjustable Trigger Type: Smooth Length: 9-3/8'' Width: 1.760" Height: 5.99" Rate of Twist: 1:16" Grooves: 5 Safety: Transfer Bar UPC: 7-25327-32014-2 Order #: 2-608049 MSRP: $547.00
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LETS BE REAL!
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For most defensive weapons, the LIGHTEST rounds you should even consider is the .38 caliber (Special) bullet. The heaviest is a matter of choice, but MOST average shooters don't carry weapons larger than .45 caliber. I carry both the .38 special and 9 mm weapons. My wife carries a .45 semi-automatic. Go figure.
HINT: If you purchase more than one gun, try to keep the caliber the same. That way, you only have to worry about one type of ammunition to buy. The style of the weapon may be different, but the rounds they shoot should be the same. I obviously do not practice what I preach. But, as I said before, the purchase and use of a handgun is a very personal choice and if my wife wants to carry and use a .45 semi-automatic pistol, who am I to argue with her.
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Model: 500MSS2 Caliber: .500MAG Capacity: 5 Barrel Length: 2-1/4" Porting: Yes Action: DA/SA Finish: Stainless Steel Grips: Soft Rubber Weight: 68 oz Construction: Steel Frame: Large Front Sight: Rear Sight: Adjustable Trigger Type: Smooth Length: 9.000'' Width: 1.921" Height: 6.365" Rate of Twist: 1: Grooves: 0 Safety: Transfer Bar UPC: 7-25327-60158-6 Order #: 2-500029 MSRP: $880.00
These two weapons shown above and below are very powerful revolvers of .50 caliber and .41 Magnum respectively. The size of the shells limits their capacity to 5 rounds but their short barrel length makes them very easy to conceal.
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Model: 415SS2C Caliber: .41 MAG Capacity: 5 Barrel Length: 2-1/2" Porting: No Action: DA/SA Finish: Stainless Steel Grips: Ribber Weight: 30 oz Construction: Steel Frame: Compact Front Sight: Fixed Rear Sight: Fixed Trigger Type: Smooth Length: 7-1/8'' Width: 1.531" Height: 5.10" Rate of Twist: 1:18.75" Grooves: 6 Safety: Transfer Bar UPC: 7-25327-33093-6 Order #: 2-415029C MSRP: $531.00
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Model: 650SS Caliber: .357 MAG Capacity: 5 Barrel Length: 2" Porting: No Action: DAO Finish: Stainless Steel Grips: Rubber Weight: 23.9 oz Construction: Steel Frame: Small Front Sight: Fixed Rear Sight: Fixed Trigger Type: Smooth Length: 6-1/2" Width: 1.378" Height: 4.28" Rate of Twist: 1:16.50" Grooves: 6 Safety: Transfer Bar UPC: 7-25327-34113-0 Order #: 2-650129CIA MSRP: $430.00
The two Taurus weapons seen here are both easily concealed weapons. The "hammerless" version (above) is great when you carry it in a pocket since there is no hammer to hang up on your clothing.
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Model: 817SSUL Caliber: .38 SPL +P RATED Capacity: 7 Barrel Length: 2" Porting: No Action: DA/SA Finish: Stainless Steel Grips: Rubber Weight: 21 oz Construction: Ultralite-Alloy Frame: Compact Front Sight: Fixed Rear Sight: Fixed Trigger Type: Smooth Length: 6-1/2'' Width: 1.531" Height: 5.10" Rate of Twist: 1:16" Grooves: 5 Safety: Transfer Bar UPC: 7-25327-32099-9 Order #: 2-817029UL MSRP: $453.00
Note that the .357 Magnum (top) has a capacity of 5 rounds and the .38 Special (bottom) carries 7 rounds. Lots of choices.
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ULTRA-LIGHTS
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Model: 444MULTI Caliber: .44 MAG Capacity: 6 Barrel Length: 4" Porting: No Action: DA/SA Finish: UltraLite Titanium Blue Grips: Cushioned Inset Rubber Grip Weight: 28.3 Oz. Construction: Titanium/Alloy Frame: Large Front Sight: Red Fiber Optic Fixed Rear Sight: Adj/Optical Trigger Type: Smooth Length: 9.8" Width: 1.760" Height: 6.280" Rate of Twist: 1:16" Grooves: 6 Safety: Transfer Bar UPC: 7-25327-35125-2 Order #: 2-444041ULT MSRP: $650.00
Ultra-Light weapons are a result of modern metallurgy. Newer metals that can withstand high pressure with ultra light weight.
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Model: 941SS2UL Caliber: .22 MAG Capacity: 8 Barrel Length: 2" Porting: No Action: DA/SA Finish: Stainless Steel Grips: Rubber Weight: 18.5 oz Construction: Ultralite-Alloy Frame: Small Front Sight: Fixed Rear Sight: Adjustable Trigger Type: Smooth Length: 6-1/2" Width: 1.346" Height: 4.98" Rate of Twist: 1:15" Grooves: 6 Safety: Transfer Bar UPC: 7-25327-33036-3 Order #: 2-941029UL MSRP: $438.00
The .22 Magnum is MUCH more powerful than the standard .22 Long Rifle shell. The projectile diameter is .22 caliber but the shell casing is much larger. The .22 LR cartridge will NOT fit this gun.
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Model: 85CHULT Caliber: .38 SPL +P RATED Capacity: 5 Barrel Length: 2" Porting: No Action: DAO Finish: Stainless Steel Grips: Rubber Weight: 13.5 oz Construction: Ultralite-Alloy/Titanium Frame: Small Front Sight: Fixed Rear Sight: Fixed Trigger Type: Smooth Length: 6-1/2'' Width: 1.346" Height: 4.28" Rate of Twist: 1:16.50" Grooves: 6 Safety: Transfer Bar UPC: 7-25327-35099-6 Order #: 2-850129ULT MSRP: $548.00
This weapon and the 650SS (top) is double action only (DAO). The reason is simply that without a hammer, you can't pull it back to the cocked (ready to fire) position. It must be double action to work.
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WHY AM I ONLY SHOWING TAURUS WEAPONS?
That's easy. When researching the web for pictures and descriptions of available weapons, Taurus had the best organized web site with the highest quality photos and descriptions available to me. The other manufacturers have weapons of equal quality with varying prices. But, the other web sites are harder to work through for research. Maybe they just want you to go to the store and see for yourself. That's not a bad idea when it comes to the actual purchase, but not for information like I need. Interestingly, Taurus separates their handguns into Revolvers and Pistols, with pistols being the semi-automatic type weapons. Thanks Taurus. Nice site.
SEMI-AUTOMATIC PISTOLS
I am again using Taurus examples, but any gun manufacturer will offer a comparable weapon at varying prices. Shop around. Taurus doesn't make a .50 caliber weapon, so I'll show it last. I'll start with Taurus' "big boys":
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Model: 100SS-11 Caliber: .40 S&W Capacity: 11 +1 Barrel Length: 5" Porting: No Action: DA/SA Finish: Stainless Steel Grips: Rubber Weight: 34 oz Construction: Steel/Alloy Frame: Large Front Sight: Rear Sight: 3-Dot F/S Trigger Type: Smooth Length: 8-1/2'' Width: 1.622" Height: 5.575" Rate of Twist: 1:16" Grooves: 6 Safety: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Block, Hammer Decocker UPC: 7-25327-60059-6 Order #: 1-100059-11 MSRP: $617.00
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Model: 101SS-11 Caliber: .40 S&W Capacity: 11 +1 Barrel Length: 5" Porting: No Action: DA/SA Finish: Stainless Steel Grips: Rubber Weight: 34 oz Construction: Steel/Alloy Frame: Large Front Sight: Rear Sight: 3-Dot F/S Trigger Type: Smooth Length: 8-1/2'' Width: 1.614" Height: 5.638" Rate of Twist: 1:16" Grooves: 6 Safety: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Block, Hammer Decocker UPC: 7-25327-60063-3 Order #: 1-101059-11 MSRP: $633.00
A TAURUS FAVORITE, THIS .40 CALIBER VERSION OF OUR 9MM PT92 OFFERS FULL 11+1 CAPACITY IN THE POPULAR POLICE CALIBER. FEATURING AN AMBIDEXTROUS THREE-POSITION SAFETY THAT ALLOWS COCKED AND LOCKED SINGLE ACTION CARRY OR THE CONVENIENCE OF A DECOCKED DOUBLE.
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Model: 24/7-9SSP-10 Caliber: 9 mm Capacity: 10 +1 Barrel Length: 4" Porting: No Action: SA/DA Finish: Stainless Steel Grips: Ribber Grip Overlay Weight: 27.2 Construction: Polymer/Steel Frame: Large Front Sight: Fixed- 1 Dot Rear Sight: 3-Dot F/S Trigger Type: Smooth Length: 7-1/8" Width: 1-1/4" Height: 5-1/2" Rate of Twist: 1:16" Grooves: 6 Safety: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Block, Trigger Block UPC: 7-25327-60194-4 Order #: 1-247099P-10 MSRP: $499.00
There are higher capacity (hi-cap) weapons on the market but with recent changes to gun laws, these hi-cap guns are usually limited to law enforcement only use. You may be able to pick up a used "pre-ban" weapon, however, at a gun show or dealer trade in.
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Model: 24/7LS-45B Caliber: .45 ACP Capacity: 10 +1 Barrel Length: 5" Porting: No Action: SA/DA Finish: Blue Grips: Molded Polymer Weight: 27.2 oz Construction: Polymer/Steel Frame: Large Front Sight: Rear Sight: 3-Dot F/S Trigger Type: Smooth Length: 8.3" Width: 1-1/4" Height: 5-1/2" Rate of Twist: 1:16" Grooves: 6 Safety: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Block, Trigger Block UPC: 7-25327-60141-8 Order #: 1-247451LS MSRP: $485.00
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Model: 92SSGR Caliber: 9 mm Capacity: 10 +1 Barrel Length: 5" Porting: No Action: DA/SA Finish: Stainless Steel/Gold Grips: Rosewood Weight: 34 oz Construction: Steel/Alloy Frame: Large Front Sight: Fixed- 1 Dot Rear Sight: 3-Dot F/S Trigger Type: Smooth Length: 8-1/2'' Width: 1.606" Height: 5.543" Rate of Twist: 1:9.84 Grooves: 6 Safety: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Block, Hammer Decocker UPC: 7-25327-31065-5 Order #: 1-920159GR MSRP: $664.00
My wife likes this one because its "pretty". Don't let the looks fool you. It's just as deadly as all the other weapons shown here.
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Model: 945SS Caliber: .45 ACP Capacity: 8 +1 Barrel Length: 4-1/4" Porting: No Action: DA/SA Finish: Stainless Steel Grips: Rubber Weight: 29.5 oz Construction: Steel/Alloy Frame: Large Front Sight: Fixed- 1 Dot Rear Sight: Fixed- 2 Dots Trigger Type: Smooth Length: 7-1/2'' Width: 1.390" Height: 5.634" Rate of Twist: 1:16" Grooves: 6 Safety: Manual Safety, Firing Pin Block, Hammer Decocker UPC: 7-25327-10452-0 Order #: 1-945049 MSRP: $602.00
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MagnumResearch.com
Desert Eagle Pistol in Black Oxide
$1,299.00
This Desert Eagle 6" pistol can be purchased through your favorite local dealer in either a .50AE, .44 or .357 caliber.
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Sig
Caliber 45 ACP
MSRP: $1,069.00
Remember the Colt 45 Officer's Model used in WW II? This is the model cloned by Sig-Sauer and is a close copy of the original. Many people, particularly law enforcement officers, swear by the Sig-Sauer weapons and won't carry anything else. I'm personally less impressed by the name and won't pay the extra money for no real reason. Don't get me wrong, the Sig is a fine weapon.
Carry Weapon
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Caliber 9mm, .357 SIG, .40 S&W
MSRP: $935, $1,009 w/ Night Sights
Most law enforcement officers I know who carry the Sig use the .40 caliber model with the optional night sights. Compare these costs with the equivalent Taurus model. Shoot both of them and make up your own mind. Don't believe what others tell you.
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Sturm, Ruger & Co.
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Ruger
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Gauge/Caliber: .454 Casull/.45 Colt, Capacity: 6 Rounds, Stock/Grip: Rubber w/ Black Laminate Insert, Barrel Length: 7 1/2", Rear Sight: Adjustable
Suggested Retail Price: $ 860.00
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Gauge/Caliber: .454 Casull/.45 Colt, Capacity: 6 Rounds, Finish: Low-Glare Stainless, Stock/Grip: Hogue® TamerTM Monogrip® , Barrel Length: 2 1/2" Rear Sight: Adjustable
Suggested Retail Price: $ 860.00
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Gauge/Caliber: 9 mm Luger, Capacity: 10 Rounds, Finish: Stainless Stock/Grip: Black Synthetic, Barrel Length: 3.9", Rear Sight: Fixed, Other Features: Decock-Only Mechanism / Firing Pin Block
Suggested Retail Price: $ 480.00
Miscellaneous: Features satin/textured frame, Picatinny-style rail and rounded trigger guard.
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Colt
COLT Model O7000D Name Defender Frame material Aluminum Alloy Frame finish Stainless steel slide / Teflon coated receiver Barrel length 3" Overall length 6¾" Caliber .45 ACP Capacity 7 + 1 Hammer Combat Trigger Black anodized aluminum Action Single Front sight White Dot Carry Sight Rear sight White Dot Carry Sight Grips Wraparound Hogue Grip safety Beavertail Thumb safety Standard
The Colt website is a mess, and doesn't give MSRP. http://www.impactguns.com/store/colt_pistols.html shows MSRP at $782.99 (out of stock)
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Smith & Wesson
This is Smith & Wesson's clone of the Colt 1911 model.
Price: $1,204.00 but dealer prices may vary.
I have personal reasons for not liking Smith & Wesson and it has nothing to do with their weapons. It has to do with their management. I personally will not even use a S&W product as a weight for a fish net. But, that's just me. Their web site is even worse than Colt's web site. I guess S&W has just been sued too much. Too bad. Their legal department makes them look BAD.
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HOLSTERS
A holster is a form-fitting leather or fabric "pouch" that holds a handgun in place on your body. There are many manufacturers of holsters and some are pricey and elaborate. You've all seen the western "gun slinger" holsters strapped down on their leg for a "quick draw". That same style holster is still made today, mostly for the single-action fans I have snubbed in this article. (Sorry about that.)
A good holster is made of good quality material, and holds the weapon in the pouch firmly. It can be worn under the arm (shoulder holster), on the ankle, or on a belt around the waist.
http://www.usgalco.com/
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This is the opening page for Galco Gunleather, a premier make of fine holsters.
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The high-grade elastic band is padded and suede-lined behind the holster area with a Velcro closure. The holster offers an adjustable Velcro safety strap, with thumb break release for autos and conventional release for revolvers. The Cop Ankle Band fits ankle/boot circumferences up to 13". $49.95.
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The open top design offers a swift draw and presentation, while detailed molding provides secure retention. The butt-forward cant allows effective concealment of even a large defensive pistol. The Combat Master has an open muzzle and fits belts up to 1 3/4". $70.50 Made for semiautomatic pistols, the Combat Master is available in right or left hand designs in tan or black finish.
RT owns one of these but feels uncomfortable without having a strap over the top of the holster. I constantly worry about falling or getting knocked down and having the gun slip out of the holster. It is faster to draw without a security strap, but I don't want to accidentally lose my weapon for the sake of a quick draw.
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The Dual Position PhoenixTM features stitched sight rails to protect both leather and sights, reinforced thumb break with covered snap for security in the brush and a swift draw, and two tension screw adjustments for a custom fit to your handgun.
price: $104.95
RT now uses a holster very similar to this one. I could roll around in the grass for a long time and still retain my weapon in the holster.
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The SAOTM can be worn strong side or crossdraw at the user's discretion. The holster employs a retention strap for simplicity and security in the brush. Tension screw adjustments allow for a custom fit to your revolver.
Not the easiest holster to conceal but is GREAT for carrying that huge hand-cannon you purchased.
price: $76.95
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Worn in the middle of the back or kidney position, the MOBTM is designed for a palm-out "cavalry-style" draw.
Designed for excellent concealability as well as comfort, the MOB offers superior firearm security by means of detailed hand molding and a reinforced thumb break retention strap specifically designed for a palm-out draw motion.
price: $82.00
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Original Jackass RigTM
It features a horizontal holster that can be adjusted to a more diagonal carry position than our Miami Classic or MCII, attaching to the harness with our patented swivel connectors.
The ammo carrier has a streamlined yet secure design, while the premium center cut steerhide harness provides unparalleled concealment opportunities, greater adjustment and comfort. All four points of the center cut steerhide harness can pivot independently and are connected by our unique clover-shaped FlexalonTM swivel back plate, which is a Galco trademark.
price: $136.95
RT owns one of these but uses it only infrequently, it's hard on the shoulders when carrying large weapons. Great for concealment, though.
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Designed to keep a large hunting handgun both comfortable and accessible, Galco's new Kodiak Shoulder Holster carries a magnum revolver diagonally across the torso. Using the same principles as modern backpacks, a padded shoulder strap is used in conjunction with a torso strap that allows for instant adjustments throughout a day spent afield.
Whether used to carry a primary hunting revolver, as backup for rifle or archery hunters, or for peace of mind in bear country, the Kodiak keeps a heavy revolver secure, accessible, and comfortable.
price: $135.00
This holster solves the problem of easy access in bulky clothing. RT
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OK, If you just HAVE to look like a cowboy:
The Trail BossTM is a reproduction of an original money belt design, created in the late 1800s. It is made of and fully-lined with premium saddle leather in a rich walnut finish. The holster is a Mexican drop loop design, made of and lined with the same leather as the belt. Fits belts up to 3" wide. Belt not included.
price: $220.00
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These samples from Galco are typical of holsters offered by other manufacturers also. I advise you to shop around for the perfect holster that fits you and your weapon. Many holsters are make and model specific so make sure to bring your weapon with you (unloaded) when you buy a holster. Check for the proper placement of the holster since you may be wearing it a long time in one spot. Chafing a large hunk of skin off while walking is not my idea of a fun afternoon.
Again, Galco has a great web site and you can pick and choose what options you want to look at. Their photography is great for use in my web site. Thanks, Galco. RT
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Keep five extra cartridges available for quick reloading with the Kodiak Holster Bandolier. Designed to work in conjunction with the Kodiak Shoulder Holster only, the Bandolier slides easily on and off the Kodiak holster to create an integrated gun/ammo system. The Bandolier is caliber-specific and available in havana brown.
price: $49.95
When the Alaska oil pipeline was being built, this holster and bandolier were very popular. It seems that Polar Bears are very inquisitive and very territorial. Combine that with a 1000 pound attitude and you have a very dangerous situation. They run faster than people run.
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SafariLand
Model 77
Double Handgun Magazine Pouch
Fits belts 2.25" wide
Available in Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss or STX TACTICALTM finish
Part of the 6004/6005 Tactical System
This type of magazine pouch is recommended because the top flap insures the magazines stay in your belt rather than falling out during a scuffle. The flap also protects the magazine from inclement weather and scratching against hard surfaces.
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Model COMP I
Speedloader
Injection-molded . Designed for maximum concealment
Features a small knob providing maximum concealment for small-frame revolvers
Available in Black only
Speedloaders hold 5 or 6 rounds of revolver ammunition pre-assembled to reload a revolver. All you do is dump out the spent shells, put the loaded speedloader in the cylinder, and twist the knob. The speedloader comes away to be reloaded at a later time. I always have at least 2 on me at all times when I carry a revolver of any type. No prices given on web by Safariland.
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Bianchi
Model UM84II — Universal Military Holster
The UM84 series represents the commercial offering of the M12 holster. Fits both revolvers and most semiauto pistols. Its unique, ambidextrous design, when worn with other Bianchi accessories, provides several of different carry modes. All sizes available in black, O.D., woodland camo, and 3-color day desert camo. (Except UM84R-not available in desert camo.)
This type holster gives more environmental protection to your weapon than most leather types. Field tested to withstand sand, rain, etc…
No prices available on web from Bianchi.
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Model UM84R — Universal Military Holster
The UM84 series represents the commercial offering of the M12 holster. Fits both revolvers and most semiauto pistols. Its unique, ambidextrous design, when worn with other Bianchi accessories, provides several of different carry modes. All sizes available in black, O.D., woodland camo, and 3-color day desert camo. (Except UM84R-not available in desert camo.)
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Sears
"You'll sashay in these sassy Lee(R) denim capri pants, detailed with a laidback island vibe. The folded cuffs and cabana-striped sash belt (included) add whimsy to the sleek dark jean. Mid-rise. Zip-fly with button-through closure. Falls shin-length. Cotton blend. Machine washable. Made in the U.S.A."
This item is quite popular in Florida with the younger crowd. I put it in to point out the belt. This belt will NOT hold up the pants, let alone a 3 pound gun. You'll have to buy a good quality, heavy duty GUN QUALITY BELT. They are not very fashionable but will keep the weapon from pulling your pants off.
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US Galco
Our 1 1/2" wide Sporting Collection belt features 7 instead of the standard 5 sizing holes, for an expanded range of fit that allows it to be worn both as an over-belt for carrying shooting accessories such as our Sporting Clays Shell Pouch, or in belt loops on your trousers. Made of the highest quality chestnut Latigo leather, unlined, solid brass buckle.
price: $39.95 Remember to order it larger than your normal belt size if you plan to use it as an over-belt, especially if it is to be worn over cold weather clothing.
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DeSantis Holster
Our handcrafted belts are built from extra heavy premium saddle leather. They are available in tan or black leather, fully lined with suede. Our belts feature removable buckles. Nickel buckles are standard on black belts, and brass buckles are standard on tan. To insure proper size, our belts are measured from the inside the end of the buckle to the center hole. We slightly oversize our belts to accommodate accessories
$49.99
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MiltSparks.com
Our belts, like our holsters are constructed from Grade A, vegetable tanned cowhide, cut from the bend. They are rigid enough to support even the largest of handguns, yet comfortable.
All of our belts are made according to your specifications. Please follow the directions below and measure your belt size accurately. This is important as we cannot accept exchanges on belts made to the size indicated on your order. NO EXCEPTIONS! Prices from $80.00 to $120.00 Custom Made Belts
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Bianchi
Model B4 - RangerTM Belt
Features the popular Western billet design. Plain or basket finish; tan, unlined. 1" buckle. 32"- 46
Features:
Full grain leather, unlined
Popular western billet design
Fits 1" buckle
Solid brass buckle
Specify exact waist size when ordering
No Prices listed on Web.
Good quality gun leather is NOT CHEAP. In the long run, you will be better off forking out the big bucks for a good quality belt that won't need to be replaced after 6 months of use. A strong belt can hold other accessories such as speedloader or magazine pouches, without distorting, rolling over or breaking under the strain of the weapons and gear. Don't skimp on the belt. You lose credibility if your weapon falls off your body onto the ground...especially in a crowd. Again, shop around.
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