Inside Firearms March 2023

MARCH 2023 www.insidefirearms.com

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 3 march 2023 | contents Inside the Industry First Round Always Packing By Patrick Meitin Retailing Savvy Closing more sales by asking leading questions Industry News The latest on news, events, and people in the firearms industry Industry 5Q Five Questions with Davidson's, Inc. People Power of Participation Firearms Industry Members Participating in the Sport Red Arrow Weapons The Complete Package By Michaelean Pike Market Trends Gear Report Comp-N-Choke Choke Tubes By Patrick Meitin Rifle Report Mossberg Patriot Predator By Patrick Meitin Gear Report BukTek Products TacBox By Patrick Meitin Bird Guns Upland & Waterfowl Shotgun Roundup By Larry Case Gear Report TargetTack™ LLC By Patrick Meitin 2023 Featured Products Gear Report Kick’s Gobblin’ Thunder .410 Choke Tube By Patrick Meitin 2023 Self-Defense Guns By Kat Ainsworth Stevens Gear Report Ocaso Knives Solstice By Patrick Meitin 4 6 10 58 14 16 28 30 32 34 43 44 46 48 57 16 32 34 30 28 57 48 6

inside the industry | first round Always Packing F or me, carrying a handgun has long been second nature. For years, right out of high school and during much of college, I trapped furbearers for survival money. A cheap 22 LR H&R revolver saved me a lot of time, quickly and humanly dispatching caught fur. From the time I left high school, during college fall semesters, and for a total of 23 years I was also a big-game outfitter/guide who spent months at a time afield. While guiding rifle hunters or chasing bear and cougar hounds, a Colt Anaconda 44 Remington Magnum was my constant companion. I also carried it during annual trips to Alaska for DIY bowhunting. That Anaconda saved several hounds’ lives and my own on one of those Last Frontier forays when a very large brown bear took exception to sharing the same trail. I’m quite comfortable around handguns. Using them is essentially second nature, whether I was finishing off some dude’s wounded animal, rescuing a hound from severe injury or death, or shooting an angry brown bear. I have friends, serious hunters among them, who find handguns spooky somehow— mostly urbane dwellers who have fallen victim to a nonstop barrage of propaganda and subtle mental manipulation by our legacy media. Like, any time murder is mentioned on the evening news, a picture of a handgun appears on the screen behind the talking head, no matter that a knife or hammer or baseball bat was used to commit the crime. But the attitude toward handguns is slowly turning among the masses, particularly with denizens of urban and suburban areas. Handgun sales have reached historical highs the past few years. This includes record sales to citizens purchasing their very first firearm. There is no mystery here. People are concerned, if not outright terrified. One cannot watch the news without seeing a non-stop menagerie of violence and mayhem. Rioters burn down cities while dragging people from cars and beating them severely for choosing the wrong road or wearing the wrong hat. Anyone who doesn’t agree with a prescribed narrative must be silenced—by force, if necessary. Crime has reached epic levels in some cities, most notably those long controlled by progressive politicians. These are the people who take no responsibility for their bail-reform or defund the police policies, instead blaming endemic racism or white supremacy or some such strawman. In some cities, there is little to no consequence for crime. People have had enough. People are scared. People are taking control of their own destiny. People are embracing the right to self-preservation underlying our 2nd Amendment guarantees as Americans. I have not guided hunters for quite some time, and trapping is no longer profitable. But I am still packing just about everywhere I go—just not on my hip in plain sight as I once did. Because the world, like the Alaska wilds, is a potentially dangerous place and sometimes a firearm is the only thing that will suffice. Patrick Meitin, Executive Editor

Inside Firearms is a publication of Apollo Creative Inc Printed in the USA. Publisher Apollo Creative Inc Owners • Stephen Mack | Patrick Meitin | Ed Rother Executive Editor Patrick Meitin • [email protected] Associate Editor Michaelean Pike • [email protected] Copy Editor Kat Ainsworth Stevens • [email protected] Online Editor Stephen Mack • [email protected] Contributors Kat Ainsworth Stevens | Larry Case | Michaelean Pike Sales & Marketing Stephen Mack • [email protected] • 814.341.9313 Aaron Buehler • [email protected] • 616.520.3244 Design & Production ER Graphics / Ed Rother • [email protected] Social Media Manager Jason Ashe Video Editor Marc Balistreri Account Manager Pam Ludlam • [email protected] Subscription Services & Change of Address: Inside Firearms Circulation Department Inside Firearms, PO Box 986, Levittown, PA 19055-9998 Phone: 844.862.9286 • Fax: 888.965.9961 [email protected] Publication Office Inside Firearms / Apollo Creative Inc P.O. Box 15827, Colorado Springs, CO 80935 Phone: 719.495.9999 • www.InsideFirearms.com Inside Firearms Copyright © 2023 Apollo Crreative Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. Inside Firearms is a registered U.S. trademark of Apollo Creative Inc. Opinions expressed in by-lined articles or columns are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, the magazine or its staff. Submission Guidelines: Apollo Creative Inc and Inside Firearms magazine assume no responsibility for unsolicited editorial, photography or art submissions. Contributors submitting articles, photos or art do so at their own risk. Material will not be returned without a selfaddressed envelope with sufficient postage. No contract, agreement, term or condition provided by any contributor shall be binding on Apollo Creative Inc unless it is signed and returned by the Editor. Firearms and hunting are inherently dangerous activities. Improper use of hunting or firearms equipment may cause serious injury or death. Always follow state and local hunting safety rules, and get required permits or licenses before hunting. Apollo Creative Inc uses reasonable efforts to include accurate and up-to-date information in our publications; however, we do not make any warranties or representations as to accuracy or completeness. All information in this magazine is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. Apollo Creative Inc is not responsible for researching and investigating the accuracy of the contents of stories or advertisements published in this magazine. Readers use the information in this magazine at their own risk. Apollo Creative Inc assumes no liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this magazine, or arising from use by any person of the information in this magazine.

inside the industry | retailing savvy 6 | inside firearms | march 2023 Closing More Sales By Asking Leading Questions A sking the right questions helps create more satisfied customers and keeps cash registers ringing. Encounter an employee in an average retailing atmosphere and you will receive a standard, “How can I help you?” Rest assured such a question is more likely to put customers on guard than set them at ease. A slightly better approach might be, “Is there something I can help you find today?” Slightly better, but still lacking the welcoming attitude that makes customers feel special. How you greet customers who walk through your doors or whom you encounter on the floor involves working around typical human nature. This is a delicate balance between being truly helpful and making customers feel they are being harassed or hustled. This is never your intention, obviously, but many people are hard wired to subconsciously put up a wall in retail settings. The result, after all, is that customer parting with painfully acquired cash, which is compounded in a sporting goods atmosphere because this is viewed as disposable income, a.k.a. my money--in contrast to monthly bills that become other people’s money. Putting customers at ease and softening the sales pitch requires a little more thought and patience than ambushing customers with a robotic “How can I help you?” This starts the moment a customer walks into your store or is encountered on the sales floor. Customers must, most of all, be made to feel special. Put on a happy face and greet them as you would a friend or relative you haven’t seen in awhile: “Hello, how is the day treating you?” or “Good morning/afternoon/evening—having a great day I hope.” These are basic icebreakers, and sincerity is vitally important. You are working to gain a customer’s trust, set them at ease, make them feel welcome—even making them feel special or appreciated. This should be followed by small

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 7 talk: “Jeesh, how about this weather? Wish I could be outside shooting today!” Or, “The traffic settled down out there yet? Took me an extra half hour to get into work this morning.” This signals to customers that you’re interested in getting to know them better. This also encourages dialogue that helps you better read your customer, while also gaining their trust. It makes you relatable. Sure, you’re no doubt thinking, like I have time to chat up every customer that walks in. Well, of course you do. These interactions don’t require a lot of your time, but the extra effort is imperative for helping customers relax, trust you, and open themselves to further conversation—before slowly transitioning into salesman mode. Mention of weather and wanting to be outside shooting, in our earlier example, might coax a customer to volunteer why they have come in. The dialogue hopefully turns to weekend plans, and exactly what they are after. Even if this does not occur, calming your customer’s native apprehensions allows you to eventually ask, “So, what brings you in today?” without creating suspicion. A sure clue you rushed the conversation is your customer offering, “Oh, I’m just looking around.” This can certainly be true—some customers are simply burning time or looking for cheap entertainment—though remember, no one likes to be rushed or pressured (real or imagined). Many salesmen give up here, saying something like, “Well, let me know if you have any questions or if I can help you find something.” Look to the standard brush-off as opportunity for more conversation. You might ask if this is their first visit to the store. If it’s an exploratory visit, it could present an opportunity to relate the virtues of your store, highlighting customer loyalty programs, pointing out free services such as mounting and bore sighting scopes, monthly concealed carry classes, or upcoming seminars, just as quick examples. This is a delicate operation. You don’t want to force yourself on customers or follow them around like a puppy. Chat them up, work to put them at ease, but don’t push them. Easy days are made of customers who come straight to the point, telling you exactly what they are after. Such customers need something, but just haven’t decided exactly which model or brand to invest in. Patient conversation can put even shy or antisocial shoppers in the “tire-kicking” stage at ease. “I’ve been thinking about upgrading the scope on my rifle,” they might offer. Motivated consumers, or those seeking replacement product pronto, are easier—but questions should not end there. It is still your job to determine which product best serves their individual needs. Tire kickers can often be delicately coaxed into impulse buys, with a savvy sales approach. Still others truly want the item under discussion, but are willing to burn a $60 tank of fuel to save $10, as some enjoy the process more than the purchase. Friendly, thorough sales approaches can convince deal seekers to forgo all the running around or bring them back when they are ready to buy. Let’s take the example of the customer looking for a scope upgrade. Two common mistakes quickly emerge: The overeager salesman who plunks an array of scopes on the counter with a takeyour-pick attitude or the salesman who offers, “This is what I put on my rifle.” The first approach wastes the time of all involved. More importantly, why would you assume that what works for you will automatically work for me? The better approach includes asking leading questions. This is especially true of customers buying a birthday, Christmas, anniversary, or other special gift, since the end user isn’t on hand to directly answer questions. First, what kind of rifle do you own— long-range bolt, AR, lever-gun, varmint or big-game rifle? How far do you expect to shoot? What kind of terrain do you hunt most, open or heavily wooded? How do you hunt, run-and-gun backcountry elk, treestand whitetail or a little of both? Do you prefer something lightweight, or are you willing to deal with a little more weight for extra precision at longer ranges? Do you prefer

8 | inside firearms | march 2023 inside the industry | retailing savvy simplicity or a capped-correction scope, or a more sophisticated exposed-turret system? Do you have a favorite brand? It’s not difficult to see where all of this is going. The one question best generally avoided—unless the customer volunteers a definitive number—is price. Avoid boxing yourself into a specific price point. When some customers relate a budget, they are dead serious. Others are only relating what they would like to spend, which may or may not prove realistic for the quality or features they seek. Your patient questioning is designed to better understand your customer’s needs and expectations. It can also work to help a customer clarify the matter in their own minds. Only after all involved have gained a firm grasp on what a customer expects and what will best serve their individual needs should you reach for merchandise. Again, this all comes across as tedious and time consuming on paper but, in reality, proceeds rather briskly. My usual approach at this juncture was to present three price points in an appropriate model—top-end, midpriced and budget models—while absolutely avoiding labeling one product “better” than another. “Better” implies another is inferior, subconsciously taking that item off the table. Instead, point out the selling points of the lower-priced product, working up in price and highlighting what features and benefits are added for the extra money. Thorough product knowledge is obviously vital in such presentations. Approached in this manner, discriminating customers often spend a bit more money for a perceived advantage in the field. After the sale is finalized, take the time to assure a customer they made a wise choice and are sure to enjoy their purchase. Great salesmanship is certainly about talking, but asking the right questions is pivotal to satisfied customers. Customers come away believing you truly value their input and unique needs, which creates loyal patrons who spread the word and spend money in your store again.

10 | inside firearms | march 2023 inside the industry | industry news 2nd Amendment 1791 Changes Name to 1791 Outdoor Lifestyle Group 2nd Amendment 1791, LLC, the parent company of 1791 Gunleather, 1791 Tactical, 1791 SnagMag, and Ultra Custom with Memory-Lok Technology, has updated its name to 1791 Outdoor Lifestyle Group. The company’s name is inspired by the Bill of Rights, which has formed the foundation of the American way of life as well as the basic values of Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. The first 10 Amendments to the Constitution were ratified on December 15, 1791. Synonymous with trust and craftsmanship, the new name reflects the company’s desire to expand its presence in the outdoor space and its full range of products and services, including OEM and private label manufacturing, as well as product design and development. “Listening to our customers has given us a unique ability to grow our brand and what we can offer. Our leadership team knew the timing of this change was ideal and would better define us while continuing to develop purpose driven lifestyle products,” said Alex Toussieh, COO. 1791 Outdoor Lifestyle Group owns a variety of brands that represent the spirit of what the company stands for, such as 1791 Gunleather, 1791 Tactical, SnagMag, and Ultra Custom with Memory-Lok Technology. It will also launch new product lines, expanding into segments such as camping, fishing, hunting, home improvement, and hardware. Headquartered in Miami, 1791 Outdoor Lifestyle Group strives to provide the highest quality products to its expanding James Miller, the latter of whom the case is named after. Representing SAF and its partners are attorneys Bradley A. Benbrook at the Benbrook Law Group, PC and David H. Thompson at Cooper & Kirk, PLLC. In his ruling, U.S. District Judge Roger T. Benitez said, “This Court concludes that the purpose and effect of § 1021.11 is to trench on a citizen’s right of access to the courts and to discourage the peaceful vindication of an enumerated constitutional right. Because the state fee-shifting statute undermines a citizen’s constitutional rights, it is this Court’s role to declare its invalidity and enjoin its threat.” The judge’s ruling also applies to a virtually identical challenge involving SAF’s sister organization, the Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms, known as South Bay Rod & Gun Club v. Bonta. CCRKBA and the gun club are joined by the California Rifle & Pistol Association and several other plaintiffs. “We’re grateful that Judge Benitez saw this provision for what it is, an effort to chill opposition to California’s increasingly restrictive gun control laws,” Gottlieb concluded. KelTec to Open New Plant in Wyoming KelTec CNC Industries has announced plans to expand its production capacity with the acquisition of a 33,000 square foot facility in Rock Springs, Wyoming. This will augment its existing 125,000 square foot industrial space in Cocoa, Florida. “I am thrilled to be part of this new adventure in our story,” said Adrian Kellgren, director of industrial production. “Wyoming has a rich history as part of the American frontier and it’s fitting for our brand, being that we constantly explore the limits of performance and design, to expand out here.” KelTec representatives say the new facility will customer base, all backed by a lifetime warranty and 100 percent satisfaction guarantee. | TO LEARN MORE AND BROWSE THE FULL LINEUP OF PREMIUM HOLSTERS AND LEATHER GOODS, VISIT 1791GUNLEATHER.COM. Federal Judge Declares California Fee-Shifting Unconstitutional A federal judge declared California’s controversial “fee-shifting” tenet of the state’s new gun control law to be unconstitutional and permanently enjoined the state from enforcing this provision, known as Section 1021.11. It is a victory for the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) and its partners in their lawsuit challenging the statute. SAF founder and Executive Vice President Alan M. Gottlieb said this is a major setback for the gun control extremism that has been running rampant in California. The case is known as Miller v. Bonta. “Christmas came early for Golden State gun owners and rights groups everywhere who find it necessary to challenge the state’s restrictive firearms regulations,” Gottlieb said. “Section 1021.11 would have penalized gun rights groups, and their attorneys, for having the courage to take the state to court.” SAF was joined by the San Diego County Gun Owners Political Action Committee, California Gun Rights Foundation, Firearms Policy Coalition, Inc., John W. Dillon, Dillon Law Group, P.C., George M. Lee, Gunfighter Tactical, LLC, John Phillips, PWGG, L.P., Ryan Peterson, and

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 11 focus on cutting-edge manufacturing technology, next-generation research and development, and production of the newest trend-setting firearms available. “This is a milestone for KelTec CNC Industries,” said Director of Sales & Marketing Derek Kellgren. “While steady expansion isn’t anything new to us, this is our first expansion into another state and we couldn’t be more exited about advancing our innovative designs and production processes in Wyoming.” While the company’s initial start-up will be small, the facility is designed to grow up to more than 250 employees across multiple industrial disciplines. | VISIT KELTECWEAPONS.COM TO LEARN MORE. NSSF Praises U.S. House Range Access Act Introduction NSSF, the firearm industry trade association, praised the introduction of the Range Access Act in the U.S. House of Representatives. This legislation, introduced by U.S. Rep. Blake Moore (R-Utah), increases and improves outdoor recreation opportunities across the nation while improving infrastructure and driving economic growth in rural communities. "NSSF commends Congressman Moore for introducing this vitally important legislation to increase access for the public to practice marksmanship at safe recreational shooting ranges," said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel. "This legislation, that would require the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management have at least one qualifying recreational shooting range in each National Forest and BLM district, is crucial to ensuring safe public recreational shooting. Congressman Moore’s bill would also benefit conservation by reducing pollution at non-dedicated ranges on federal public lands while also generating additional Pittman-Robertson revenue." The immediate benefit of this legislation is providing public access to safe recreational shooting ranges, especially in rural areas. Background checks for firearm sales saw a record of 21 million in 2020 and another 18.5 million in 2021. So far, background checks for firearm sales in 2022 are on pace for the third strongest year on record, with background checks topping 1 million for 38 consecutive months. Those gun owners, many of whom are first timers, need safe and modern ranges to practice marksmanship skills. This legislation has the added benefit of supporting wildlife conservation and improving recreational shooting access. Recreational shooting is tied to approximately 85 percent of the Pittman-Robertson excise taxes currently being paid by firearm and ammunition manufacturers, making it a major driving contributor to wildlife conservation. Since the Pittman-Robertson excise tax was enacted in 1937, firearm and ammunition makers have paid $15.3 billion for conservation, construction, and improvement of public recreational shooting ranges. Adjusted for inflation, that figure tops $23 billion. NSSF is the trade association for the firearm industry. Its mission is to promote, protect, and preserve hunting and the shooting sports. Formed in 1961, NSSF has a membership of thousands of manMossberg Wins Caliber Award for Best New Shotgun The Mossberg 940 Pro Turkey Optic Ready semi-automatic shotgun was awarded the 2022 Caliber Award for the “Best New Shotgun.” The Caliber Awards recognize the best new products in six categories and are presented annually by POMA (Professional Outdoor Media Association) in partnership with NASGW (National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers). 2022 award winners were honored at the NASGW Appreciation Dinner in Kansas City, Missouri, on October 25th. The Caliber Awards offer an unbiased approach to honoring new, innovative products. The voting panel is comprised of the people who buy and sell these products daily as well as media members who review and report on these products in the field. More than 170 submissions were narrowed down to three finalists in each category. Judges were asked to consider the uniqueness, market need, value of the product, ingenuity, and presentation. As one of the newest members of the 940 Pro high-performance semi-automatic shotgun family, the 940 Pro Turkey shotgun is an optic-ready package that features a choice of 24- or 18.5-inch barrel lengths, HIVIZ CompSight fiber optic sight for quick target acquisition, Mossberg X-Factor ported choke tube for improved pattern density, full camo coverage in Mossy Oak Greenleaf, and a host of premium features and finishes. In addition, the receiver ships already milled for a direct mount for a low-profile, micro dot sight for proper eye alignment and quick target acquisition. “Following in the footsteps of the 940 JM Pro, awarded the ‘Best New Shotgun’ honor in 2020, the 940 Pro Turkey continues to elevate this series of autoloading shotguns,” said John MacLellan, Mossberg’s Vice President of Sales & Marketing. “Our sales and marketing teams understood the need for an optic-ready platform for today’s turkey hunter and our engineering team delivered with the concept of a receiver cut to accept a low-profile optic combined with the reliability and feature-rich 940 platform. On behalf of Mossberg, thanks to POMA and NASGW for recognizing the uniqueness and value of the 940 Pro.” Founded in 1919, O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc. is the oldest family-owned firearms manufacturer in America and the largest pump-action shotgun manufacturer in the world. Celebrating 100 years of innovation, Mossberg leads the industry with more than 100 design and utility patents and stands as the first ISO 9001 certified long-gun manufacturer. | COMPLETE INFORMATION ON COMMERCIAL, SPECIAL PURPOSE, LAW ENFORCEMENT AND MILITARY SHOTGUNS, RIFLES, HANDGUNS, AND ACCESSORIES IS AVAILABLE AT MOSSBERG.COM OR BY CALLING 1-800-363-3555.

12 | inside firearms | march 2023 inside the industry | industry news ufacturers, distributors, firearms retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen’s organizations, and publishers nationwide. | FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT NSSF.ORG. Winchester Awarded $9 Million NGSW Tracer Manufacturing Study Contract by U.S. Army Winchester, the largest manufacturer of small caliber ammunition for the U.S. military, announced the U.S. Army has awarded the company a $9 million costplus contract to complete a manufacturing study in support of tracer projectile production for the 6.8mm Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) program. Work will be performed at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant (LCAAP) in Independence, Missouri, the United States’ only government-owned, contractor-operated small caliber ammunition production facility. “Winchester is very excited to begin executing this critical 6.8mm NGSW tracer ammunition study at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant,” said Brett Flaugher, President of Winchester. “With the goal of improving soldier capability, this groundbreaking work will utilize new tracer technology to create robust production processes and enable the transition of prototype tracer technology into fielded NGSW tracer ammunition. This NGSW tracer ammunition produced at Lake City will equip the future American Warfighter and help maintain the safety and defense of our nation.” The Lake City Plant, which began production in 1941, provides military ammunition for both training and combat purposes. The plant, encompassing nearly 4000 acres, also serves as a national test center for ammunition performance and weapons firing. | FOR INFORMATION REGARDING WINCHESTER'S LAKE CITY OPERATIONS VISIT WINCHESTERMILITARY.COM. Red Arrow Weapons Promotes Reed to Marketing Director Red Arrow Weapons is excited to announce the promotion of Danny Reed to Marketing Director & Brand Manager and the hiring of Dwayne Phillips as Sales & Marketing Manager. In his new role, Reed will manage marketing and social media campaigns, coordinate marketing and public relations strategies with agency partners, assist the manufacturing team with new product releases, and manage partnerships with social media influencers. “Danny has played an integral role in Red Arrow’s success, and we’re thrilled to promote him to this new position,” said Kip Campbell, Founder of Red Arrow Weapons. “We look forward to seeing him lead our marketing initiatives into the future.” Phillips will create and execute sales strategies, develop and grow retail partner relationships, and manage customer service communication between retailers, customers, and the manufacturing team. He will also help Red Arrow Weapons achieve its goal of selling as many guns as possible to put what the company states is the best AR platform firearm in the hands of patriotic Americans for a price that fits everyone. “We’re thrilled to bring Dwayne on board as an integral part of Red Arrow Weapons,” said Kip Campbell. “We’re confident his strong background and shared passion will help us better serve our partners and customers.” | TO LEARN MORE ABOUT RED ARROW WEAPONS AND BROWSE THE FULL LINE OF PRODUCTS, VISIT REDARROWWEAPONS.COM. ALSO SEE COVER STORY ON PAGE 16. Dwayne Phillips Danny Reed Make target retention better for target shooting! •Adheres paper-based targets to cardboard, haybales, foam blocks, poly-wrapped bags, and more! •Durable, reusable, holds on impact •Perfect for firearm, air-gun, and archery targets 833-822-5748 • targettackllc.com Patent Pending

14 | inside firearms | march 2023 people Jon LaCorte • Kansas Whitetail Co-Founder, TRACT Optics Firearm ■ Hart Custom Cartridge ■ .300 Remington Ultra Mag Ammo ■ Barnes TTSX Optics ■ TRACT TORIC 3-15x50mm BDC Rings / Base ■ Warne Manufacturing Other ■ Pnuma Sellkirk clothing Linda Powell • Kansas Whitetail Director of Media Relations, Mossberg Firearm ■ Mossberg Patriot Predator Cartridge ■ .308 Win Ammo ■ Nosler 165-grain AccuBond Optics ■ Swarovski Z6i 1.7-10x42mm Power Participation The of Firearms Industry Members Participating in the Sport SUBMIT YOUR PHOTO: Visit insidefirearms.com/pop or mail a color image with your name, address, where the animal was taken, and firearm gear used—both manufacturer and model— to Inside Firearms Power of Participation, P.O. Box 15827, Colorado Springs, CO 80935.

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 15 Matt Tandy • New Zealand White Stag Owner, AG Composites Firearm ■ Remington Model 700 Cartridge ■ 6.5 Creedmoor Ammo ■ Hornady Optic ■ Swarovski Rings / Base ■ Talley Other ■ AG Composites Carbon Fiber Stock Hunter Pilant • South Africa Red Hartebeest Process Manager, Starline Brass Firearm ■ Steyr Safebolt Cartridge ■ .30-06 Springfield Ammo ■ Reloaded Starline Brass/Nosler Partition Sight / Optic: ■ Nikon Monarch (discontinued) Patrick Meitin • Russia Far East Wild Boar Executive Editor, Inside Firearms Firearm ■ Customized Springfield 1903A1 Cartridge ■ .308 Norma Magnum Ammo ■ Reloaded 180 Hornady InterLock/IMR-4831 Optic ■ Leupold Rifleman 4-12x50mm Rings / Base ■ Warne Scope Mounts Chase Rohlfsen • Alaska Caribou President, RubLine Marketing Firearm ■ Remington Model 700 Ammo ■ Hornady Precision Hunter Cartridge ■ .308 Winchester Optic ■ Vortex Optics

16 | inside firearms | march 2023 BY MICHAELEAN PIKE Red Arrow Weapons The Complete Package What do you get when you combine a personable TV host with uncompromising quality? A brand that practically sells itself. If you have shown even a passing interest in outdoor television in the past 15 years, you already know Kip and Kat Campbell. Kip is the host of Red Arrow TV. His blend of humor and serious hunting and shooting skills has made him a fan favorite—and he has the awards to prove it. Kat, his wife of 17 years, puts her natural business savvy to good use helping to manage both the business and Kip himself. “She’s my handler,” Kip said when asked of their titles at the company. (For the record, Kat’s official title is vice president, though from the sound of things, she does have her hands full keeping Kip out of trouble.) Producing a successful TV show and raising four children would be enough to keep most couples busy, but not the Campbells. On July 4, 2019, the couple launched Red Arrow Weapons with the goal of introducing the show’s audience—comprised largely of bowhunters—to the versatility of the AR platform. Over the past two-and-a-half years, Red Arrow Weapons has won over both novice and experienced shooters. Certainly, the guns themselves are a big reason. Consumers are drawn to their accuracy, their distinctive looks, and shooter-friendly features, such as the 2.5-pound trigger. But Red Arrow isn’t successful solely because of the product. The company’s commitment to quality and service, marketing reach, and ability to educate consumers on the AR platform make this brand a complete package for retailers looking for a surefire sale. Red Arrow wouldn't be what it is today without the teamwork and complementary skills of founders Kip and Kat Campbell. “I was just good at shooting things and being funny. Kat was really good at wrangling all that somehow into something that could make money,” Kip said.

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 17

18 | inside firearms | march 2023 Red Arrow TV Kip and Kat met at Lynchburg College— now the University of Lynchburg— where Kat majored in physiology and Kip originally planned to major in political science in preparation for a military or law enforcement career. But his political science advisor was, in what I suspect is a censored version of what Kip might prefer to say, a “knucklehead.” As a result, Kip switched majors to communications. “I always loved hunting videos and thought if I could have one dream job it would be to host a hunting show, to get paid to travel all over and hunt,” he said. “I convinced a buddy of mine—the only other guy at the school that I knew was a hunter—to switch majors so we could utilize the college’s editing equipment and the cameras. We would take the cameras out on the weekend to film hunting videos and turn them in for class projects.” “The school actually ran sample shows on the college channel,” Kat added. If you think many of Kip’s classmates Kip "resonates with people in all the important ways—family and God and hunting and country,” Kat explained. Like many of his viewers, Kip recognizes the importance of introducing the next generation to the outdoors.

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 19 would object to those hunting videos, you’d be correct. But even in those early days, Kip was able to showcase hunting in a way that helped nonhunters understand it. “There were a lot of people in my class that were repulsed by the videos initially, but I ended up winning them over in the end,” he explained. That innate ability to connect and educate even the most adversarial viewers would prove to be a major component of Kip’s success. Even so, launching a hunting TV show was not easy. After college, the couple enthusiastically sent out DVDs of the pilot to every potential sponsor they could think of, and several of the companies called them. Unfortunately, every company asked the same question: What channel is your show airing on? “I thought that’s where the sponsors came in,” Kip said. “I had a very backward understanding of how television in the hunting industry works. It’s not like Hollywood where you try out, prove yourself, and then people throw mil308 Win AR Pistol with 13.5-inch Barrel and 13-inch RAW M-LOK Rail –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Color ■ Black, Multicam, or Flat Dark Earth –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Caliber ■ .308 Win –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Action ■ Semi-automatic –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Capacity ■ 20 rounds –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Barrel ■ 13.5-inch, 4150 chrome moly vanadium, black nitride finish –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Gas System ■ Mid-length gas system –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Trigger ■ CMC 2.5-pound single stage trigger –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Barrel Twist Rate ■ 1:10 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Bolt Carrier ■ Melonite coated, AR-10 style carrier with multi-cal bolt, DPMS style barrel extension, and high pressure firing pin –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Handguard ■ 13-inch RAW M-LOK Battle Rail –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Safety ■ Ambidextrous –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Pistol Grip ■ Magpul K Grip –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Brace ■ Tailhook Mod 2 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Magazine ■ Ships with one 20-round Magpul PMAG –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Flash Hider ■ Dual chamber muzzle brake, threaded 5/8×24 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Weight ■ 8 lbs. 6 oz., empty –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Overall Length ■ 31.125 inches (Collapsed) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Overall Length ■ 33.75 inches (Extended) ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

20 | inside firearms | march 2023 lions of dollars at you. Instead, you try out and prove yourself, and then you spend a lot of money trying to break through. If you hang around long enough suffering and you’re in the one percent that’s actually good enough, then you end up making money. I had to secure my spot and prove I could provide advertising for these companies.” Undaunted, the couple set about contacting the three major outdoor television networks. Two channels responded, and they wound up with a TV show on the Sportsman Channel. But that was just the beginning. “We had been filming off and on through college to make this one pilot,” Kip said. “Now we had to deliver 13 episodes in just one season. We didn’t have any political ties to the industry, no money, no staff. We didn’t even live in a part of the country where the deer hunting was that good. But we made as much content as we possibly could.” “We were so determined and driven that nothing could hold us back, not even logic or common sense,” Kat said. To pay their bills, Kip worked in construction and Kat painted houses. And their bills weren’t inconsequential. To secure their airtime on the Sportsman Channel, they had to write a significant check. Although they were able to pick up a few sponsors for the show, they still wound up taking on a large amount of debt. For years, they sank money into their dream without seeing a profit, but the two never considered giving up. “We were so motivated to do it that nothing was going to stop us,” Kat reflected. Eventually that hard work paid off. “Somehow the show resonated with people enough that we were able to get better airtimes,” Kip said. “Then in year four we broke even, and in year five we signed Dodge Ram as our title sponsor, which meant quite a bit of money and a truck every year. That’s when we started turning a profit.” Kat credits Kip himself for the show’s success. “You could have any bowhunting show and not have the same fanbase as what Kip has,” she said. “It’s because of the realness that he brings to the show. It’s the entertainment value, the wit, the comedy, and the education. And he 5.56 AR Pistol with 10-inch Barrel and 13-inch RAW M-LOK Rail –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Color ■ Black with red accents, Multicam, or Flat Dark Earth –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Caliber ■ 5.56mm NATO –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Action ■ Semi-automatic –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Capacity ■ 30 rounds –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Barrel ■ 10-inch, 4150 chrome moly vanadium, black nitride finish –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Gas System ■ Carbine length gas system –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Trigger ■ CMC 2.5-pound single stage trigger –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Barrel Twist Rate ■ 1:8 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Bolt Carrier ■ Shot-peened, Magnetic Particle Inspected (MPI) MIL-SPEC 8620 Carrier –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Handguard ■ 13-inch RAW M-LOK Battle Rail –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Safety ■ Ambidextrous –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Pistol Grip ■ Magpul K2+ Grip –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Brace ■ Tailhook Mod 2 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Magazine ■ Ships with one 30-round Magpul PMAG Gen 2 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Flash Hider ■ KAK standard size flash can, threaded 1/2 x 28 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Weight ■ 8 lbs. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Overall Length ■ 29 inches (Collapsed) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Overall Length ■ 31.75 inches (Extended) ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 21 resonates with people in all the important ways—family and God and hunting and country.” Meanwhile, Kip attributes part of the show’s success to Kat’s influence. “I was just good at shooting things and being funny. Kat was really good at wrangling all that somehow into something that could make money,” he said. That winning combination ensured that Red Arrow quickly became a hit with viewers. Kip won back-to-back awards in the fan favorite host, fan favorite bowhunting and fan favorite TV series categories. Sponsors began reaching out to him instead of him calling them, and the couple moved the show to the Outdoor Channel.

22 | inside firearms | march 2023 But even with all the awards, honors, sponsorships, and fame, Kip is most proud of his reputation among viewers. “I look at Red Arrow as the people’s champ of bowhunting,” he said. “When I hear people describe our show as ‘real,’ that’s what makes me feel the best. People tell me they can relate to me. They feel like they could come hunt with me and be right at home. That’s what sets our show apart.” Opportunity Knocks Red Arrow’s fan appeal made the show a big hit with sponsors, and it was through a sponsor that Kip and Kat found themselves with the chance to offer their own line of firearms. “I had a sponsor who was advertising and providing guns for the show,” Kip explained. “He came to me one day and told me that my show was big enough and popular enough that I could make more money if we started our own gun company. He said I could design the guns and he would manufacture them for us. Instead of him writing me a check to sell his guns, we’d pay him to make our guns and wind up putting more money in our pocket. It was a win-win.” That began a two-year process to de - velop the guns Kip wanted to design. And what he wanted to design was an AR that delivered everything a hunter would want. His goal was to make an AR-15 or an AR-10 that would be easy to use and accurate right out of the box. “You’re not going to have to drop an extra thousand dollars into it,” he said. “It’s ready to go.” Although Kip loved the versatility of the AR platform, he didn’t love every - thing about the options on the market at the time. “I had a MIL-SPEC AR-15 with a su - per heavy trigger,” he said. “That takes some getting used to if you’ve been

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 23 shooting a bolt-action rifle with a twopound trigger your whole life. I wanted something that would be accurate and sweet-shooting without a big gap to bridge for the hunter.” To that end, Kip designed his guns to offer a trigger better suited to hunters. “One of the main components that sets us apart is the trigger that comes standard with all our guns,” he said. “You’re not going to have to drop in a $300 trigger after you buy it. Ours comes standard with a 2.5-pound trigger, which gets you ahead of the game right out of the box.” Best-selling products include Red Arrow’s AR-10 chambered in .308 Win and the .300 Blackout AR Pistol. The latter has become a popular youth model. “We hunt with the .300 Blackout Pistol quite a bit on the show,” Kip said. “Mostly my kids hunt with it. It’s suppressed, so it’s low recoil. That’s the model I billed as perfect for youth hunting and getting kids into shooting. It’s smooth, light—we have a 2.5-pound trigger— and has virtually no recoil. People have a lot of misconceptions about what an AR is. I think a lot of hunters watched my kids hunting with it and saw that it wasn’t scaring them or kicking them because of the suppressor.” Although the company targeted hunters who were less familiar with ARs, Red Arrow firearms had a broad appeal. “At first, our mission was to design guns for guys who were getting an AR for the first time,” Kip said. “But then we had a lot of guys who were experts already and really liked the rifles. And then I decided to make a great selfdefense tool. Once we started introducing them in that light, we got a lot of feedback from a wide range of shooters, everything from Green Berets to Navy Seals to law enforcement to just your average guy who was just an AR enthusiast, all the way down to guys buying 5.56 AR Pistol with 7-inch Barrel and 9-inch RAW M-LOK Rail –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Color ■ Black with red accents, Multicam, or Flat Dark Earth –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Caliber ■ 5.56mm NATO –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Action ■ Semi-automatic –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Capacity ■ 30 rounds –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Barrel ■ 7-inch, 4150 chrome moly vanadium, black nitride finish –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Gas System ■ Pistol length gas system –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Trigger ■ CMC 2.5-pound single stage trigger –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Barrel Twist Rate ■ 1:8 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Bolt Carrier ■ Shot-peened, Magnetic Particle Inspected (MPI) MIL-SPEC 8620 Carrier –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Handguard ■ 9-inch RAW M-LOK Battle Rail –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Safety ■ Ambidextrous –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Pistol Grip ■ Magpul K2+ Grip –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Brace ■ Tailhook Mod 2 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Magazine ■ Ships with one 30-round Magpul PMAG Gen 2 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Flash Hider ■ KAK standard size flash can, threaded 1/2 x 28 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Weight ■ 7lbs. 5oz. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Overall Length ■ 24.25 inches (Collapsed) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Overall Length ■ 27 inches (Extended) ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

24 | inside firearms | march 2023 their first AR just to see what it was all about.” “We have LEOs who use our guns for their service weapons and are buying them for their department,” Kat added. With growing demand for their product, Red Arrow continues to innovate, updating and adding to their line at the end of 2022 to fill other gaps in the market. “We totally redesigned the handrails,” Kip said. “We put an integrated thumb or finger stop at the end of the handrail. It’s pretty subtle, but I’ve never seen another one like it built into an AR. We went the self-defense route, so we offer a shorter 5.56 NATO pistol. It’s compact, so you can be in and out of a truck or vehicle pretty quickly. There’s also a 9mm in that same vein. It takes Glock magazines, so if you’re already running Glock pistols, now you have a little bit more substantial firepower and can still use all your same Glock mags.

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 25 But the one I’m most excited about is the .308 with a 13.5-inch barrel. We wanted a more compact high caliber deer- or hog-hunting rifle. Our 13.5- inch barrel AR-10 pistol is super light and easy to pack around. That was what we wanted compared to a fullsize AR-10. Those can obviously get pretty beefy, and any accessories that you put on are going to start making it heavy pretty quick. This rifle really impressed us on the range. We took them out and were ringing steel at 500 yards. Very accurate, very consistent even though the barrel is smaller and the gun is a little more skeletonized so it’s a little bit lighter. That product I’m pretty excited about.” A Built-in Following Despite being such a young company, Red Arrow Weapons has quickly become a player in the firearms industry. That doesn’t surprise Kat at all. “When you have Kip, you have a built-in following,” she said. “The company has done really well. We’ve grown 9mm AR Pistol with 4.5-inch Barrel and 6-inch RAW M-LOK Rail –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Color ■ Black with red accents, Multicam, or Flat Dark Earth –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Caliber ■ 9mm Parabellum –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Action ■ Semi-automatic –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Capacity ■ 32 rounds –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Barrel ■ 4.5-inch, 4150 chrome moly vanadium, black nitride finish –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Gas System ■ Blowback –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Trigger ■ CMC 2.5-pound single stage trigger –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Barrel Twist Rate ■ 1:9 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Bolt Carrier ■ Black nitride finished 9R bolt carrier –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Handguard ■ 6-inch RAW M-LOK Battle Rail –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Safety ■ Ambidextrous –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Pistol Grip ■ Magpul K2+ Grip –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Brace ■ Tailhook Mod 2 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Magazine ■ Ships with one 32-round ProMag –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Flash Hider ■ KAK Slimline Flash Can, threaded 5/8 x 24 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Weight ■ 7 lbs. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Overall Length ■ 21 inches (Collapsed) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Overall Length ■ 23.75 inches (Extended) ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

26 | inside firearms | march 2023 every year. And with this new line and with reaching new outlets—we’re go - ing to be marketing it in new ways— it’s exciting. Our dealer reach has ex - panded this year. We had so many people ask if they could go see the guns. They wanted to go look at them, hold them. That side of the business is growing at a good pace, especially for a brand-new company that doesn’t have a long-time name.” For retailers looking to stock an indemand product that practically sells itself, the Red Arrow brand has a lot to recommend it. “The appeal of the brand is going to be just as attractive as the look of the guns,” Kat said. “Whether you know our show or not, we’re looking to make sure our brand image is just as solid as the product. You’re getting a com - plete package. It’s not just a product. It’s a product with a lifestyle following that’s going to be just as strong. And it doesn’t hurt that the guns are sexy as hell. They look good on the shelf.” Of course, they don’t just look good. Kip has a reputation for only endors - ing products he believes in completely, and that goes for his own product line as well. “I use these guns in my job every day,” he said. “Then I film it in 4K HD and put it on TV for everybody to see. You can turn on the television and see our various guns and the way they operate. They have to work for me ev - ery time I go out. If there’s a problem, there’s nobody more frustrated or ded - icated to fixing it than me. And I put these guns through the wringer. I treat my rifles the way no one should ever treat them. Guys who are taking mod - erate care of them should never have a problem. Ever. If someone has saved up their hard-earned money to buy an AR, he can watch our show and see just how invested I am in our products.

9mm AR Pistol with 7.5-inch Barrel and 9-inch RAW M-LOK Rail –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Color ■ Black with red accents, Multicam, or Flat Dark Earth –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Caliber ■ 9mm Parabellum –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Action ■ Semi-automatic –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Capacity ■ 32 rounds –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Barrel ■ 7.5-inch, 4150 chrome moly vanadium, black nitride finish –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Gas System ■ Blowback –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Trigger ■ CMC 2.5-pound single stage trigger –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Barrel Twist Rate ■ 1:9 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Bolt Carrier ■ Black nitride 9R bolt carrier –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Handguard ■ 9-inch RAW M-LOK Battle Rail –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Safety ■ Ambidextrous –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Pistol Grip ■ Magpul K2+ Grip –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Brace ■ Tailhook Mod 2 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Magazine ■ Ships with one 32-round ProMag –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Flash Hider ■ KAK Slimline Flash Can, threaded 5/8 x 24 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Weight ■ 7 lbs. 5 oz. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Overall Length ■ 24 inches (Collapsed) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Overall Length ■ 26.75 inches (Extended) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 27 “Anything that we put out there, we stand behind 100 percent. Our manufacturer has the infrastructure to turn things around quickly if there’s an issue or something needs to be changed. On the customer-service side, between the people that we have in-house and the manufacturer, it’s top notch. You’ll always have somebody to be able to talk to if you need us.” Moving into the future Red Arrow Weapons has big plans for 2023 and beyond. The company now has four full-time employees, including Danny Reed, head of marketing, and Dwayne Phillips, head of sales, as well as a number of contractors. Meanwhile, several new products are in the works for 2023. “Our new line looks nothing like the original line, and the next one after that will be even more different,” Kip said, speaking of products the company hopes to launch in 2023. Those include a .350 Legend, a .450 Bushmaster, and a dedicated .22 pack gun. “That .22 pack gun is my baby,” Kip said. “It folds up smaller than a keyboard. We named it after my favorite Patrick Swayze movie—Roadhouse. We call it the Double Deuce. I can’t wait to get prototypes in my hand so I can get out there and hunt with them.” No matter what, the Campbells remain dedicated to producing quality ARs that meet consumers’ needs. “Our goal is to keep things as highend as possible while still delivering at a price point that’s reasonable for customers and profitable for retailers,” Kip said. “Our customers get an AR that’s ahead of the game in terms of the quality of the parts—the trigger alone is worth a ton in terms of accuracy and peace of mind and functionality of the weapon. It’s made in America. It looks amazing. And it’s out-of-the-box ready to hunt or go on the range or defend yourself.”

28 | inside firearms | march 2023 market trends | gear report Comp-N-Choke Choke Tubes L ike most bird hunters of a certain age, my first shotguns included fixed chokes integral to existing barrels. All too often these were full chokes—certainly welcomed on a duck marsh back when we were all allowed to shoot lead shot, but not exactly ideal while targeting passing doves or flushed quail inside 25 yards. My first repeater, an affordable Mossberg pump, wore a C-Lect-Choke, a bulky muzzle contraption allowing shooters to dial in the desired pattern constriction. Of course, screw-in choke tubes are now de rigueur, allowing shooters to choose an ideal choke for any task at hand and creating a booming cottage industry. One of those companies, CompN-Choke, was on the leading edge of this trend, boasting a history reaching back 30 years. The folks at Comp-N-Choke will tell you most choke tubes lack pattern consistency. Comp-N-Choke uses their decades-long experience to manufacture choke tubes providing the performance, range, and pattern consistency needed to hit targets when it truly counts. This has made Comp-N-Choke a favorite of countless competitive shooters, though the company’s chokes are certainly hunt ready. The company’s products improve range and accuracy while providing more consistent patterns that translate into more hits and kills. All Comp-NChokes are machined from solid stainless steel bar stock to be seamless, stout, and reliable. Comp-N-Choke also supplies tubes for a long list of shotgun models, including American Arms, ATA, ATI, Baikal, Benelli (24 models), Beretta (33 models), Blaser, Browning (41 models), Caesar Guerini, CZ-USA, Fabarm, Franchi (12 models), H&K, Hastings, Henry, Kolar, Krieghoff, Lanber, Ljutic, Mossberg (11 models), New England, Perazzi, Remington (24 models), Ruger, Savage, SKB, Stoeger, Tikka, Tristar, Verona, Weatherby, Winchester (23 models), Yildiz, and Zoli. These are available in all gauges, where applicable, including sub-gauges such as .410 bore, 28-, 20- and 16-gauge. One of the newest offerings from Comp-N-Choke is the ARC Series. These are non-ported stainless steel choke tubes that are ideal for settings such as sporting clay courses or duck blinds. Of course, the non-ported ARC tubes provide the same consistency and performance as the company’s slot-ported tubes, which have been providing great patterns for wing and clay shooters for the past 30 years. Comp-N-Choke’s slot ported designs are still very much in demand. The muzzle-brake effect introduced is wholly welcomed, even preferred, by shotgunners burning quantities of ammunition—such as trap and skeet shooters—or hunters wielding heavy magnum shotshells for turkeys or waterfowl. Slotted brakes help control muzzle jump for faster recovery and follow-up shots and reduce felt recoil to help minimize shooting ailments such as flinching or failure to follow through. No matter the brand, sport, quarry, or the pattern constriction desired, CompN-Choke is nearly guaranteed to have an option. Dealers can also rest assured that should a customer have a special order, Comp-N-Choke keeps most popular choke tubes in stock and ready to ship immediately. Check them out by visiting compnchoke.com. By Patrick Meitin

30 | inside firearms | march 2023 market trends | rifle report C ontemplating an invitation from Linda Powell, Mossberg’s Director of Press Relations, for an early-December Kansas whitetail hunt—and my pick of the company’s extensive line of rifles— nostalgia ruled the day. My first rifle was an affordable Remington Model 700 ADL chambered in .243 Winchester—a cartridge the expert behind the gun counter convinced my non-hunting parents was ideal for a pre-teen addressing Eastern New Mexico deer. I was thrilled with this decision, as the raw fur market had peaked. I harbored big plans for predator calling the abundant coyotes and grey foxes near home to earn quick cash. That blue-collar M700 served me well, tackling the local desert mulies and the furbearers that funded my youthful aspirations, plus my first pronghorn, black bear, and bull elk. The .243 Win, as Winchester envisioned in 1955, is a truly versatile cartridge. From Mossberg, the .243 Win is available in the highly affordable Patriot Predator Strata Camo, a trim, synthetic-stocked rifle well-suited to biggame hunting and predator calling. As an obsessive small-varmint shooter with extremely high accuracy standards, I’ll confess I didn’t expect much out of this thin-barreled, $600 rifle. Adjusted for inflation, this rifle is much more affordable than the base-model Remington of my youth. I was hoping handloading could wring some 1- to 1.5-inch groups out of it suitable for moderate-range deer hunting. Boy was I in for a surprise! The Patriot Predator’s most obvious features include a factory-mounted Picatinny rail for versatile optics mounting, a threaded, fluted barrel, and detachable box magazine. Other features include a spiral-fluted bolt with oversized handle, Mossberg’s superb LBA user-adjustable trigger, and handsome Patriot Brown Cerakote action and barrel finish. I’ve grown to prefer the Picatinny approach to optics mounting. From an accuracy standpoint, it bridge ties the action together, improving action rigidity and accuracy. Scopes can also be placed where needed for length of pull or physical dimensions—not where mounting taps or two-piece bases dictate. The Patriot Predator’s barrel is thin, measuring a trim .31-inches at its thinnest point and flaring up to around .57-inches just behind the 5/8x24 muzzle threads. This helps create the rifle’s 6.5-pound out-of-the-box mass for easy toting in the field, but does mean it heats quickly during sustained shooting. Six parallel flutes are part of the weight savings and will help the barrel cool faster given a light breeze. The rifle arrived with a knurled thread protector, but was shot using GemTech’s Tracker suppressor, making for conspicuously pleasant shooting without muzzle blast and recoil. The Patriot includes an opposing twolug bolt with the head pinned to the onepiece body and handle. The bolt spiraling, with Patriot Brown Cerakote in the flute valleys, is quite handsome. A checkered push tab left of the bolt allows removing it for cleaning. The safety is a simple twoposition system, pulled back for safe, forward to expose a red dot and to fire. The bolt operates for unloading while on safe. This gun has the Mossberg LBA trigger, one I’ve long admired on my Mossberg MVP Varmint in .204 Ruger (unfortunately discontinued in that chambering). It includes a center blade, which acts as a secondary safety, allowing light trigger pulls without causing corporate lawyers undue anxiety. The trigger broke around 3 pounds from the Eagle Pass, Texas factory, so I found no reason to fuss with it. On my MVP I adjusted this trigger to slightly less than 2 pounds. By Patrick Meitin top: During testing a Swarovski Z8i 2-16x50mm P scope was mounted to the Mossberg Patriot Predator rifle. The crisp optic allowed precision shooting and posed no problems through extensive shooting. bottom: Mossberg’s LBA trigger is user adjustable from 2 to 7 pounds. The center blade acts as a secondary safety, allowing it to be dialed down to light trigger pulls without becoming dangerous in rough and tumble big-game settings. top: The recoil lug of the Mossberg Patriot Predator is sandwiched between the barrel and action, and abuts a crossbeam molded into the synthetic stock. Side tabs prevent forward shifting. bottom: This blow-up image of the Mossberg Patriot Predator shows, top to bottom, the barreled action and bolt, synthetic stock, polymer magazine well insert, hex-head action bolts, and polymer five-round magazine. Mossberg Patriot Predator Strata Camo in .243 Winchester

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 31 Mossberg Patriot Predator Specifications –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Manufacturer: Mossberg –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Country of Origin: U.S.A. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Action: Bolt Action –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Caliber: .243 Winchester (also available in .22-250 Remington, 6.5 Creedmoor and PRC, .308 Winchester, 7mm PRC, and .450 Bushmaster) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Barrel: Carbon steel, fluted, threaded, 11-degree crown –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Barrel Length: 22 inches –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Barrel Twist Rate: 1:10 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Magazine Capacity: Detachable, 5-round –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Safety: Two-position, side thumb –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Trigger: Mossberg LBA, user adjustable (2-7 pounds) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Trigger Pull: 3 pounds as tested –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Stock: Synthetic, Strata Camo finish, 13.75-inch LOP (fixed) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Finish: Cerakote, Patriot Brown –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Weight: 6.5 pounds –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Overall Length: 42.25 inches –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Sights: Factory-installed Picatinny rail –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– MSRP: $616 –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For more information, call (203) 230-5300 or visit www.mossberg.com The synthetic stock is what I would call a classic American style, a straight-forward design made for hunting. The trigger guard is integral to the stock, the polymer box magazine popping into a polymer insert positively and dropping by a streamlined front lever. The magazine system makes it difficult to inadvertently drop the mag, while remaining easily accessible. The stock is equipped with sling studs front and rear. The recoil pad is an inch thick, made of soft rubber, and is quite effective (I’ve experienced this pad on a .300 Win Mag Mossberg rifle producing considerably more recoil). The forend allows the barrel to free float, and accuracy did not deteriorate as the barrel heated. Mossberg designed the gun so the polymer mag well extends front and rear inside the stock with anchoring bolts extending through each of the insert’s ends for stability. These bolts include hex heads to prevent buggering or marring. The rear of the recoil lug—sandwiched between barrel and action—rests against a cross-strut molded into the stock, minimally reinforced by the bolted-in magazine well insert. The front of the recoillug slots are no more than tabs molded to each outside edge of the stock channel. It is a simple but effective arrangement. In preparing for Kansas, I auditioned five big-game bullets weighing from 85 to 100 grains. Many of these bullets were chosen in diffidence to western Kansas’ open terrain and the possibility of longer shots in the wind. Of course, options were also limited by the traditional 1:10 rifling twist of this cartridge and rifle combination. With Nosler’s Partition things went as initially envisioned with groups hovering in the 1.25- to 1.5-inch range. Good enough for big-game work, no doubt, though the best load combination did break an inch. Moving to Berger’s 87-grain VLD Hunting, with its stellar .427 G1 ballistic coefficient, is when the real surprises began—including a couple sub-half-MOA groups. Hornady’s 95-grain SST did it again with at least one powder tested, Berger’s 95-grain Classic Hunter opening slightly. Ultimately, I chose Sierra’s reliable 100-grain SBT for the big hunt, 41 grains of Winchester StaBALL 6.5 pushing that bullet to a respectable 2,811 fps and assembling a 0.54-inch group. The rifle assembled sub-0.75-inch groups with the two factory loads on hand. Unfortunately, I didn’t see the buck I was after in Kansas, so didn’t get to put those loads to the ultimate test. I’ll have to try them on local coyotes in the coming weeks, knowing this Mossberg is up to the task in every way. This is a hugely-affordable, slick-running, and wholly-reliable rifle any hunter would be happy to wield— even accuracy snobs like myself. left: The best reload group shot with the Mossberg Patriot Predator resulted from 38 grains of Shooters World Long Rifle and Berger’s 87-grain VLD Hunting. That 0.41-inch group was sent at 2,979 fps. center: Remington Core-Lokt Tipped and Hornady Superformance SST factory ammos, both with 95-grain bullets, shot groups measuring less than 0.75-inches. The Hornady rounds were a couple hundred fps faster. right: Bullets tested from the Mossberg rifle with 1:10 rifling twist included, left to right: Nosler’s 85-grain Partition, Berger’s 87-grain VLD Hunting, Hornady’s 85-grain SST, Berger’s 95-grain Classic Hunter, and Sierra’s 100-Grain GameKing SBT. .234 Winchester Factory Loads ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Extreme 5-shot velocity 100-yard Load MSRP Velocity spread group* (grains) (fps) (fps) (inches) ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 95 Remington Core-Lokt Tipped $46.99 2,996 21 .72 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 95 Hornady Superformance SST $39.32 3,121 18 .74 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– *Accuracy average of three 5-shot groups .234 Winchester Handloads ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 5-shot Overall 100-yard Bullet Powder Charge length Velocity group (grains) (inches) (fps) (inches) ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 85 Nosler Partition Superformance 46.0 2.55 3,125 .97 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 87 Berger VLD Hunt. Long Rifle 38.0 2.69 2,979 .41 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 95 Hornady SST Hunter 41.5 2.70 2,767 .46 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 95 Berger Classic IMR-4451 38.5 2.70 2,718 .64 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 100 Sierra SBT StaBALL 6.5 41.0 2,65 2,811 .54 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Notes: A Swarovski Z8i 2-16x50mm P scope, new Hornady brass, Winchester WSR primers, a Redding National Match (NM-C) Die Set and an Area 419 ZERO Reloading Press were used during testing.

32 | inside firearms | march 2023 market trends | gear report BukTek Products TacBox T he world has become an increasingly dangerous place. Policies such as the misguided Defund the Police movement, bail reform, and violent political unrest have resulted in unprecedented crime spikes, and a newfound interest in self-preservation amongst average citizens. The sale of defensive handguns has skyrocketed, including record numbers of first-time gun purchases. The United State Supreme Court also recently ruled to remove roadblocks to securing concealed-carry permits in states and cities where it could be argued they are most needed. More people than ever are keeping handguns close at hand. This is what BukTek’s TacBox is all about, providing instant access to a handgun when it is needed most, but providing secure storage when it is not. Ben Staub created the TacBox while seeking a better way to stow his conceal-carry pistol while driving. Staub wanted an approach that kept his pistol out of sight and secure, but instantly accessible. Using his skills as an entrepreneur and manufacturing expert, he created the TacBox. The TacBox is molded from tough ABS plastic, lined with urethane foam, and designed to attach to just about any surface—vertical, horizontal or hanging. The TacBox is also affordable (MSRP $21.99), meaning customers can buy several and place them where they are needed and leave them in place and ready. The system does not include a lock. After receiving a selection of TacBoxes, I immediately thought of our vehicles, my wife and I both concealed-carry holders. The TacBox is the perfect solution, anchored inside a center console, beside the driver’s seat, or beneath the dash, leaving a handgun instantly accessible in the event of a car jacking or other emergency. Of course, the TacBox has many other uses, such as attached to a night stand, beneath a desk, or on the inside of a gun safe to save space and create neater storage. Only a customer’s individual needs and imaginations limit the possibilities, as the TacBox comes with multiple-approach mounting options. This also means a customer’s handgun is mounted in the same location and position every time, allowing intuitive reactions to threat while under stress. The TacBox comes in two sizes, one for full-size semi-auto handguns measuring more than an inch wide (FS10) and sub-compact semi-auto handguns measuring 3/4- to 1-inch wide (FS20). A new TacBox Mini, made for super-compact handguns, is promised soon. The TacBox measures 7-by-2.25-by-5.25 inches and includes foam-lined slots for a handgun and two loaded magazines. Out of the box, the TacBox is not designed to accommodate lasers or light systems, but can be custom cut as needed. They are offered in black and olive green. I anchored a FS20 TacBox between the seat and center counsel of my wife’s Lexis for her Springfield 911, a FS10 in my truck for a Walther P99, still another in our shared SUV for whatever we are carrying while running errands. BukTek Products’ TacBox offers peace of mind wherever you go. Learn more by visiting thetacbox.com. By Patrick Meitin

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 33

34 | inside firearms | march 2023

BY LARRY CASE march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 35 H ow we view hunting shotguns and their use has changed quite a bit through the years. There was a time when Dad and Grandad might have had one shotgun and used it for everything from ducks to deer to pheasants. These days, shotguns for a specific purpose are more the norm. Upland hunters will tell you they want a scattergun that is fast handling, lightweight for long days in the field, and points naturally. Waterfowl hunters may say they are not as worried about the weight of the shotgun and will often welcome it, as this helps with recoil from magnum duck and goose rounds. The waterfowl hunters also want a shotgun with a protective finish and the ability to stand up to the rigors of rain, snow, mud, and Labrador slobber. Here are some hot shotgun choices to feed your bird-hunting clientele.

36 | inside firearms | march 2023 Upland Shotguns CZ-USA ■ The CZ 712 semiauto shotgun has been around for several years and has already earned the reputation of a proven performer. I collected a 712 Target Model several years ago and was impressed with it as a soft shooter. Gun companies often conduct small changes on next generation offerings, but in truth CZ-USA rebuilt the 712 from the ground up for the G3 model. One major change for this shotgun is the gas system, which was extensively modified. The new 712 G3 draws a greater amount of gas when the shell is fired, resulting in the gun being capable of firing and cycling lighter loads. This gas system also incorporates two pistons, one for heavy loads like waterfowl and turkey shells, and another for light game and target loads. Oversize controls on the receiver, shims for adjusting stock fit, and a softer butt pad are also new to this shotgun. Another feature on this model is the barrel, which is over-bored—0.735—and furnished with a set of five extended Active-Choke system chokes. The CZ 712 G3’s receiver and barrel wear a durable matte black finish that minimizes glare and can be paired with either black synthetic, camo, or walnut stocks. The gun weighs 6.5 to 7.25 pounds, depending on stock material and barrel length. This is a lot of shotgun for the money. Visit cz-usa.com to learn more. Stoeger ■ Known for producing reliable and durable shotguns at affordable prices, Stoeger introduces two new additions to their M3020 lineup. The M3020 Upland Special shoulders and swings nicely, while the M3020 with Cerakote Burnt Bronze receiver and barrel and Realtree Max-5 stock and forend better withstands the tough environments faced by bird hunters. Both these 20-gauge shotguns feature the company’s Inertia Driven system. Of note is that the Inertia Driven action is contained primarily within the receiver, providing an improved, centered balance and swing. The receiver also stays cleaner longer. The M3020 Upland Special sports an anodized silver receiver and is complemented by a satin walnut buttstock and forearm. The 26-inch blued barrel is fitted with a ventilated, stepped rib and fiber-optic front sight. Three extended chokes come standard with the M3020 Upland Special. The included shim kit allows drop and cast adjustments to create a custom fit. Visit stoegerindustries.com to learn more. Weatherby ■ With matte-finished metalwork and a matching matte Turkish walnut stock, the Orion Matte Blue should tempt those who tramp the brush in search of birds. Equipped with automatic ejectors, the Orion is notable for its slim action that employs a set of sliding locking bars nestled above the ejectors. This results in less bulk than similar over/unders. Fitted with 26- or 28-inch 12-gauge barrels or 26-inch in 20-gauge tubes, the Orion Matte Blue has a vented top rib fit with a single brass bead. It is shipped with a set of interchangeable chokes. The Orion features an A- grade walnut stock and has a satin finish, an ambidextrous top tang safety, chrome lined barrels, 3-inch chamber, and a Prince of Wales grip. It weighs 7 pounds in 12 gauge and 6 pounds in 20. Visit weatherby.com to learn more. Franchi ■ The Franchi Instinct Sideplate is an elegant shotgun that will turn the head of any bird hunter. Franchi added this model to the Instinct over/under family in 2022. The Instinct Sideplate differs from the company’s other over/under models and includes an engraved, color case-hardened sideplate-style steel receiver as a nod to Franchi’s Italian heritage. American gamebirds are inlaid in gold on both sides of the traditionally floral engraved receiver. Those details accent the gold-plated trigger and complement the AA-grade satin-finish walnut stock with Prince of Wales grip and Schnabel forend. The new Instinct Sideplate shotguns are available in 12- and 20-gauge and are chambered for 2 ¾- and 3-inch shells. Each gun comes with C, IC, M, IM, and F extended black chokes, as well as a custom-fitted hard case. Length of pull is 14.25 inches and drop at heel is 2 inches with the muzzle holding a red fiber optic sight. Visit franchiusa.com to learn more. Benelli ■ Benelli took their upland double-barrel to a new level in 2022, introducing the 828U Limited Edition. The company fundamentally redefined the CZ-USA 712 G3 ■ STOEGER M3020 UPLAND SPECIAL ■ STOEGER M3020 BURNT BRONZE CERAKOTE ■

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 37 possibilities of the over/under shotgun category when they presented the allnew 828U to the upland and sporting clays set in 2015. While Benelli stayed with the classic over/under profile, the 828U delivered several innovations. The 828U Limited Edition immediately stands apart with its nickel-plated steel frame and elegant game scene engravings along the sides, top, and bottom of the receiver, along with the satinfinished AA-grade walnut furniture. The Limited Edition has the BE.S.T. (Benelli Surface Treatment) gloss barrel finish which utilizes a proprietary coating that calls on nanotechnology and diamond-like carbon particles to provide an armor-tough coating to steel. The BE.S.T. finish is so dependable Benelli includes a 25-year guarantee against rust and corrosion on all BE.S.T. coated parts. This is a limited-edition model. Benelli will produce only 200 units of the 828U Limited Edition in 12-gauge with a 28-inch barrel. As with the mainline 828U, the 828U Limited-Edition includes impulse-activated ejectors, a top lever striker reset, and the Benelli Progressive Comfort System recoil mitigation in the stock. The 828U also sports a removable trigger group for easy cleaning, adjustable drop and cast for a custom fit, and Benelli’s patented steel locking system that prevents shotshell pressure transfer to the receiver and hinge pins. Visit benelliusa.com to learn more. Mossberg ■ Mossberg got into the over/under business a few years ago with the Mossberg International Silver Reserve Field and Mossberg International Gold Reserve Sporting Series shotguns. These well-appointed yet affordable double guns are available in 12-, 20-, 28-gauge, and .410 bore in the Silver Reserve Field series, along with a 20-gauge Youth gun. Silver Reserve Field Series are reasonably priced over/under shotguns that sport black walnut stocks with a satin finish, handsome cut-checkering on the grip and forearm, 14-inch length-of-pull (LOP) and complementing matte blue-finished, vent rib barrels (10mm). Other standard features include shell extractors and 28-inch 12-gauge, 26-inch 20-gauge, 28-gauge, or .410 bore barrel lengths, topped with a front bead sight. Every gun has a Field Set of five flush choke tubes—Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, and Full— satin-finished silver receiver with engraved Mossberg logo, and tangmounted safety and barrel selector. An optional 12-gauge Field version features a durable black synthetic stock with matte blue receiver and 28-inch barrels and is equipped with a fiber optic front sight. Those details make this break-action ideal for small game or turkey hunting. For younger shooters, or to accommodate adults requiring a shorter length-of-pull, the 20-gauge Field Youth over/under has a 13.25-inch LOP. Visit mossberg.com to learn more. Retay USA ■ Retay produced this upland/target model in a limited edition to showcase the benefits of their advanced manufacturing capabilities in drilled barrel production to the competitive target shooting market. The Antalya is a firearm crafted around the company’s Straight-Shooting Shotguns deep bore drilled MaraBarrel. These barrels are made from solid round steel bar stock that is drilled out end to end, WEATHERBY ORION MATTE BLUE ■ FRANCHI INSTINCT SIDEPLATE ■ BENELLI 828U LIMITED EDITION ■ MOSSBERG SILVER RESERVE FIELD SERIES ■

38 | inside firearms | march 2023 then honed and polished to produce the straightest target barrels possible. The Antalya SS features Retay’s patented quick release trigger group with an ergonomic design specifically crafted to make loading easy. Additionally, the Antalya SS features a proprietary design that allows the magazine tube to be emptied without the need to rack the action to eject shells—a system Retay calls Easy Unload. The Antalya features a 4 + 1 capacity with 2 ¾-inch shells, five interchangeable MaraPro chokes, a red TruGlo fiber optic sight, and Grade-4 walnut furniture. It weighs just a hair less than 7 pounds. Visit retayusa.com to learn more. Savage Arms ■ Recent years have seen a resurgence of shotguns bored in 16 gauge. Nostalgia? More interest in the sub-gauges? Maybe both, but there is no doubt a lot of upland hunters love the 16 gauge. The Stevens 555 over/under has been around awhile and has something of a reputation as a workhorse field and clay gun that won’t break your piggy bank, and now does it in 16 gauge. The field-and-trap tested platform is light and handles fast, thanks to a lightweight aluminum receiver that is scaled to gauge and reinforced by a steel insert. This model has several appealing features, including a stylish Turkish walnut stock and chrome-lined, 28-inch carbon steel barrels, lightweight aluminum receiver with tang-mounted safety, single selective mechanical trigger, manual extractors, and five interchangeable choke tubes. Visit savagearms.com to learn more. Browning ■ The Browning A5 semiautomatic shotgun is an iconic part of scattergun history and yet another of the many creations of firearms genius John Moses Browning. The original A5 has been gone for years but when Browning brought back the A5 shotgun—at least in name—they changed most of the aspects of the gun but kept one important feature, the classic humpback design of the receiver. Many shotgunners believe, as do I, the distinctive blocky receiver brings the shooters eye quickly in line with the rib and helps get on target. Today’s modern A5 is powered by the Kinematic Drive System, Browning’s version of the inertia system for semiauto shotguns, and the latest addition to the A5 line is the Sweet Sixteen Upland model. This shotgun features an oil-finish Turkish walnut stock with a close-radius pistol grip and shim adjustment for length of pull and cast and drop. It has a compact 16-gauge receiver and overall dimensions, 18 lines-per-inch checkering, brushed nickel receiver finish, three Invector-DS choke tubes, and a fiber-optic front sight and ivory mid-bead. Visit browning.com to learn more. Waterfowl Shotguns CZ-USA ■ Duck and goose hunters tend to lean toward inertia powered shotguns because they stand up to more abuse and require less cleaning than most gas guns. The 1012 is CZ’s inertia shotgun and was put to the test in 2019 when Shotgun Product Manager David Miller and four young team members broke the Guinness Book of World Records mark for the most clay targets broken by a five-person team in 12 hours. Miller’s team shot the 1012 almost continuously for 12 hours. Each team member shot more than 4,000 rounds with no lubrication or cleaning. During extensive testing of this system by CZ engineers and designers, 5,000 shells were fired through several CZ 1012s. The latest RETAY ANTALYA ■ SAVAGE ARMS STEVENS 555 ■ BROWNING A5 SWEET SIXTEEN ■

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 39 version of the 1012 is adorned with Mossy Oak Bottomland camo and has a length of pull of 14.5 inches. The chamber is 3 inches, and the shotgun will cycle heavy duck loads as well as light target loads. Magazine capacity is 4 +1 with 2 ¾-inch loads. A 26- or 28-inch barrel is available, the 1012 ships with a set of five black extended choke tubes and weighs 6.5 pounds. Visit cz-usa.com to learn more. Stoeger ■ The M3500 Stoeger shotgun has been around a few years and has a solid reputation as a workhorse. It’s an inertia-powered semiautomatic shotgun, which means it can go a long time without cleaning—unlike many gas-powered shotguns—and will stand up to the abuse duck and goose hunters dish out. The Stoeger M3500 Waterfowl model has a 28-inch barrel, the receiver and barrel are finished in Cerakote Flat Earth, the stock and forearm are finished in Realtree Max5 camo, and it ships with a paracord sling. Loading, unloading, and operating the Model 3500 in cold weather is made easier by the oversized bolt handle and boltrelease button. A specially machined and beveled loading port makes feeding shells into the magazine tube with gloved hands quick and efficient. This shotgun shoots 2 ¾-, 3-, and 3 ½-inch shells. Maybe best of all, the M3500 won’t break your bank. Visit stoegerindustries.com to learn more. Weatherby ■ While usually known for centerfire rifles and magnum ammunition, Weatherby has been producing fine shotguns for years. The Weatherby 18i series of semiautomatic shotguns are built on a field proven inertia recoil system which provides reliable cycling and a well-balanced gun. Its single-piece receiver is precision machined from billet aluminum, which gives it strength while remaining simple. The polymer stock is designed to be ergonomic and is shim adjustable for a seamless fit to most shooters. This series also features a soft touch area on the cheek rest and aggressive texture on the palm and foregrip. As for visibility, a fully ventilated rib and high luminous LPA fiber front sight help with aiming in poor lighting conditions. The 18i is set up for the Crio Plus choke system and comes standard with five choke tubes. It also features chrome lined barrels, a 3 ½-inch chamber, a 4 +1 magazine capacity with 2 ¾-inch shells, and compatibility with magazine tube extensions. Visit weatherby.com to learn more. J. P. Sauer & Shon ■ J.P. Sauer & Son, Germany’s oldest manufacturer of hunting firearms, is introducing the new line of SL5 Waterfowl shotguns. The new SL5 is available in three models: Fred Bear Old School Camo, Fred Bear Old School Camo stock and forearm with brown Cerakote barrel and action, and Black Synthetic. All are available with 3.5-inch chambers, which also accommodate 2 ¾- and 3-inch shotshells. Magazine capacity is 3 +1. The Black Synthetic model is also available in a 3-inch chambering. Inertia-driven like the SL5 Turkey gun, all SL5 3.5-inch models have an oversized extended bolt handle and release button, making them easy to operate while wearing gloves in frigid temperatures. They are available in three barrel lengths—26-, 28-, or 30-inch. The barrels are chrome lined with a stepped rib for precise alignment. As for the receiver, it is made with a steel upper for strength and durability, and the lower is aluminum for improved balance and reduced weight. All SL5 Waterfowl shotguns feature sling attachments, a Cervellati recoil pad, rubber comb, and a red single-bead LPA front fiber-optic sight for fast and accurate target acquisition. Made in Italy and backed by a 10-year factory warranty, the SL5 Waterfowl shotgun weighs 7.5 pounds and comes standard with five Benelli Crio Plus-style extended choke tubes in Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, and Full. Visit jpsauer-usa.com to learn more. Franchi ■ First presented in the Affinity 3.5 waterfowl shotguns, the combination Cerakote and camo pattern now extends to the 3-inch-chambered Affinity platform. Two color options for these shotguns are available in one of two barrel lengths—26- CZ-USA 1012 ■ STOEGER M3500 WATERFOWL ■ WEATHERBY 18i ■ J.P. SAUER & SHON SL5 WATERFOWL ■

40 | inside firearms | march 2023 and 28-inch—and gauge offerings. Possibilities include Realtree Max-5 with Midnight Bronze Cerakote and Mossy Oak Bottomland with Patriot Brown Cerakote. The Affinity 3 models start with the Inertia Driven system, and for shooting comfort and an ergonomic fit have Franchi’s Evolved Ergonom-X technology and TSA Recoil Pad. In addition, the guns have an Omni Stock Adjustable Fit system for a custom fit and feel. Each gun includes IC, M, and F choke tubes, a red fiber optic front sight, and a mag capacity of 4 +1. Visit franchiusa.com to learn more. Benelli ■ No other shotgun has captured the hearts and minds of waterfowl hunters like the Benelli Super Black Eagle. From the days when it was championed by Phil Robertson of Duck Dynasty fame when he declared “A shotgun only has to do three things, go boom, boom, boom,” the SBE 3 has certainly done that in all sorts of horrendous conditions only a duck hunter could love. Benelli USA’s Super Black Eagle series has been a favorite in the semiauto hunting shotgun ranks from its inception more than 30 years ago. There are cadres of duck and goose hunters who simply will not hunt with anything else. In 2022, Benelli raised the bar in the growing subgauge movement with the release of eight new 3-inch chambered 28-gauge SBE 3 models. The all-new Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 with a 3-inch chamber in 28-gauge answers the growing call of waterfowlers who hunt flooded timber in the southern regions, as well as the beaver dams and cattails in the north, where tight quarters favor the sub-gauge. Offered in Crio-treated 26- and 28-inch barrel lengths, the 28-gauge SBE 3 series weigh 5.5 and 5.6 pounds, with 47.5- and 49.5-inch overall lengths. Eight models are offered in the 28-gauge SBE 3’s introduction, differentiated by barrel length and stock finish. Available stocks include synthetic, Realtree Max-5, Realtree Timber, GORE OPTIFADE, and Mossy Oak Bottomland. These 28-gauge SBE 3 models work with standard 2 ¾-inch shotshells and hunters can also tap into the new class of 3-inch loads rolling off the premier ammunition lines. The SBE 3’s 3-inch 28-gauge comes in a custom-fitted hard case with a brace of Crio flush choke tubes—IC and M extended tubes and C, IM, and F—plus a choke wrench and shim kit for drop and cast adjustment. Additional features include an oversized bolt handle, enlarged bolt release, and oversized safety for easy operation while wearing gloves. A carbon-fiber rib, which contributes to the shotgun’s light weight, ends in a fiberoptic red-bar front sight for enhanced visibility in low light hunting conditions. Visit benelliusa.com to learn more. Mossberg ■ The Mossberg 940 shotgun evolved from the 930 series. In truth, I never saw much wrong with the 930, but Mossberg completely reconfigured this gun and made many improvements. Performance-enhancing features of the 940 Pro include a new gas system that will run up to 1,500 rounds without cleaning and reliably cycle any type of quality commercial factory manufactured 2 ¾- or 3-inch ammunition. One useful feature is an oversized, beveled loading port with redesigned elevator and shell catch that allows for efficient and pinch-free loading into the magazine tube. There is also a new barrel-making process to maintain point-of-aim and impact, a slim-profile forearm, and user-configurable lengthof-pull from 13 to 14.25 inches and drop and cast. An oversized charging handle and bolt release button provide ease of operation. The internal components of the 940 Pro, which includes the gas piston/rings, magazine tube, hammer sear, return spring plunger, and return spring tube, are nickel boron coated. The return spring plunger is hard-anodized aluminum. Combined with the chrome-lined barrels and self-draining stocks, the 940 autoloaders are designed for corrosion-resistant, reliable functioning. The 940 Waterfowl Pro has a 28-inch, vent rib barrel equipped with a HIVIZ TriComp fiber optic front sight with interchangeable triangular and round LitePipes. It also ships with AccuChoke compatible XFactor ported choke tubes. Metal surfaces of the receiver and barrel wear a durable Cerakote finish in Patriot Brown and the stock and forearm are camouflaged with a TrueTimber Prairie finish. Completing this package is an aggressive Mossberg signature texturing on the forearm and stock, sling FRANCHI AFFINITY 3 ■ BENELLI SUPER BLACK EAGLE 3 ■ MOSSBERG 940 WATERFOWL PRO ■

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 41 swivel studs, 5-round capacity, drilled and tapped receiver, and ambidextrous safety. Visit mossberg.com to learn more. Retay USA ■ Then there’s Retay’s Masai Mara shotgun, now available in 20 gauge. It’s a technological achievement in that it offers a two-part receiver with an alloy lower and steel upper receiver that integrates a precision drilled and honed barrel as a single piece. This configuration, coupled with Retay’s push-button removable trigger group, offers the user ease of breakdown for cleaning and service. The 20-gauge Masai Mara will be available in both walnut and synthetic models, including models specialized for waterfowl hunting and upland game hunting. The small frame shotgun is lightweight at just 6 pounds, 5 ounces (0.75 pounds less than its 12-gauge 3.5-inch sibling). Synthetic stocked models will be offered in matte black and popular camouflage patterns including Max-7 and Timber patterns from Realtree, as well as New Bottomland, Shadow Grass Habitat, and Obsession patterns from Mossy Oak. The 20-gauge is available with 26- and 28-inch barrels, however, limited special editions including a 20-gauge version of the popular Turkey XT will be available this spring. These Masai Mara models will be priced the same as their 12-gauge 3-inch counterparts. Visit retayusa.com to learn more. Savage Arms ■ Savage raised a few eyebrows a couple years ago at the SHOT Show when they introduced the Renegauge shotgun with its fluted barrel. The new, patented D.R.I.V. (Dual Regulating Inline Valve) system is a revamping of other gas operated shotgun systems and seems to eat several types of ammo with consistency while easing felt recoil. The Renegauge has several stock adjustment features to fit the gun to most shooters, length of pull and drop at comb and heel included. The Renegauge Prairie model has a Cerakoted action, which is great for a duck gun, and a Truetimber Prairie camo stock and forearm. A carbon steel barrel, aluminum receiver, 3 +1 magazine capacity, red fiber optic front sight, and Cerakoted barrel and receiver round out its features. Visit savagearms.com to learn more. Browning ■ Browning introduced the Maxus Wicked Wing in 2009 and in 2013 brought us the Maxus II, with several improvements to the original. Goose hunters wanted the option to attach an extended magazine for Snow goose expeditions and the Maxus II delivers with a sleeker design than the original. Browning also added rubber overmolds to the pistol grip and the forearm areas to help with handling the gun in wet and cold conditions. An oversize bolt release and bolt handle are a requirement on duck guns these days and the Maxus II features the Browning’s Speed Load Plus, which goes all the way back to the original A5 days. Nickel Teflon Coating on the bolt, bolt slide, shell carrier, bolt release, and bolt handle protect and add lubricity. A chrome chamber and bore increase durability and corrosion resistance. The shotgun also includes a fiber-optic front sight and ivory mid-bead, Back-Bored Technology, three extended Invector-Plus Goose Band choke tubes (F, M, IC), and an ABS hard case. The 3 ½-inch gun weighs 7 pounds. Visit browning.com to learn more. All-Purpose Shotguns RemArms ■ The Remington 870 shotgun really should need no introduction, as it has been a do-it-all shotgun for American RETAY MASAI MARA ■ SAVAGE ARMS RENEGAUGE PRAIRIE ■ BROWNING MAXUS II ■

42 | inside firearms | march 2023 hunters since your Granddaddy’s time. If you have been wondering if Remington firearms are still being produced, the answer is yes. Most of us know of Remington’s plight in recent years, and in fall 2020 they went through yet another bankruptcy and the company was broken up and the pieces sold at auction. Marlin went to Ruger, Remington Ammunition was bought by Vista Outdoor, which also owns Federal ammunition, and the Remington ammo plant in Lonoke, Arkansas has been producing ammunition under the same Big Green brand for some time. So, Remington Ammunition is now separate from the firearms company RemArms that is manufacturing Remington Firearms. After a slow start, RemArms started to produce firearms and the first thing to hit the shelves is the tried-and-true Model 870 shotgun. Introduced in 1950, the 870 has been a workhorse shotgun for hunters and used for everything from ducks and pheasants to squirrels and rabbits. The new 870 from RemArms is named the Field Master, and for those 870 fans curious as to how it stacks up to older models, I would say the Field Master sits between the old Express Model and the iconic 870 Wingmaster. The Express model was introduced in 1987 and was very popular. There are millions of them still out there in duck blinds and behind the seats of pickups. The less expensive Express model featured cheaper wood and a matte finish that at least in later years was notorious for rusting at the first hint of moisture. Think of the new Field Master as being between the Express model and the 870 Wingmaster with lovely deep bluing on the metal and glossy finish on the wood. This shotgun certainly looks good. The stock and forearm are dark walnut and the fit and finish of the wood to the metal receiver are excellent. The old-style fleur-de-lis checkering is also a nice touch. When have you seen nice walnut on a shotgun priced at 600 bucks or less? RemArms definitely improved the finish on this shotgun from that of the old Express model. The metal workings are also improved, with a smoothing process on the two action bars and the internal parts in the action. The Field Master has an improved recoil pad that helps, but the 870 is a pump shotgun, and you are going to have some felt recoil with heavy loads. The receiver is drilled and tapped for a turkey-hunting optic, there are swivel studs for a sling, and the Field Master ships with a full, modified, and improved cylinder choke. RemArms also put a clever turnkey mechanism on the magazine cap for easy access to the magazine spring. If you have been wanting a new 870, I would not be afraid of buying the new, affordable Field Master. Visit remarms.com to learn more. Henry Repeating Arms ■ Some might believe a simple single-shot shotgun has no place alongside semiauto and over/under shotguns. I disagree; every young shooter starts somewhere and picking that first shotgun is always tricky. Choosing a first shotgun is an important decision that has the potential to make or break a youth’s future enjoyment of the shooting sports. Start them with a shotgun that doesn’t fit them well or is too heavy, and there is a chance they will be put off shotgun hunting for good. Every kid is going to remember their first time out. The Henry Single Shot Youth 20-gauge version ships with a Modified choke using Rem-Choke style threads, which delivers a versatile shooting pattern for shooting from 25 to 45 yards. The .410 is threaded for Invector-style chokes with a Full choke included out of the box. Visit henryusa.com to learn more. REMARMS 870 FIELD MASTER ■ HENRY SINGLE SHOT YOUTH ■

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 43 gear report | market trends TargetTack™ llc W hether sighting in, honing shooting skills, or developing accurate reloads, paper targets are a big part of life. This, of course, involves a backing surface and some way of securing targets for shooting. Typical anchoring includes staple guns or thumbtacks in wood-backed target stands, or tape. On any given month I fire 450 to 500 rounds while testing firearms and conducting load development, so I have tried them all. I’ve also been frustrated by them all, from forgetting staples to the need to pry thumbtacks from targets with a pocketknife, to the frustration of finding the end of the tape on a roll and damage to targets I need for photography. Recently, zeroing a brace of newlyarrived rifles and scopes, I discovered an easier way. New TargetTacks offer an affordable, simple, super-secure, and infinitely reusable option for securing paper or vinyl targets to target stands. I tossed a cardboard box destined for the burn pile in the pickup bed and used 1.0-inch TargetTacks to quickly and securely pin the four corners of my five-spot targets onto the cardboard face. Even with a treerustling breeze, TargetTacks held the paper securely in place. After wallowing the anchoring holes after changing targets several times, giving the three-edged/serrated TargetTack a quarter-turn twist retightened their hold on targets. I now envision a more practical target system: cobbling together a self-standing frame of furring strips and stapling a face of cardboard or corrugated vinyl (old political or real estate signs work great) onto the frame. This could be easily moved, with TargetTacks offering an efficient option for changing targets quickly. I could also see pre-drilling my usual plywood backer to accept TargetTacks and provide consistent target placement important while using a chronograph. TargetTacks are also offered in longer 3.0-inch models for use while utilizing standard foam, bag, or hay bale bow/ crossbow targets, and in a Variety 8 Pack containing four each of the 1.0- and 3.0- inch TargetTacks. Wholesale partners can purchase TargetTacks in individual packs, bundle packs, or in bulk for use on commercial gun or archery ranges. TargetTacks are sold in orange but other colors can be custom ordered by clubs or pro shops. Recyclable polymer-material TargetTacks eliminate target-range trash and potential ricochets off metal pins while proving fast and easy to use, and then store after use. The TargetTack system does not require great strength to deploy, the ergonomic design making them simple to use with no need for intense prying. Quick left-right turns allow them to slip through even woven polymer faces. The eyelet head can be used to hang reactive targets or balloons to make shooting fun, or hold surveying tape to read the wind. Bullet or arrow impact will not dislodge targets while assembling groups. TargetTack is a veteran- and familyowned and run business, and off to a running start. In fact, TargetTacks were among the top-three most scanned products during Day 3 in the New Products Display Center during the recent SHOT Show. Check them out by visiting TargetTackLLC.com. By Patrick Meitin

2023 FEATURED PRODUCTS 44 | inside firearms | march 2023 Best of the West The Best of the West (BOTW) introduces the most complete long-range hunting system ever with the introduction of the ALTOPO Shooting System. The complete package provides out-of-the-box confidence at any range, chambered in 6.5 or 300 PRC. It is based on a Defiance anTi stainless steel action with precision 24-inch spiral fluted/threaded barrel with muzzle brake. The works is held in a McMillan carbon fiber stock with topographical map graphics, a TriggerTech trigger and a Huskemaw 5-20x50mm Blue Diamond scope set in Talley rings, also included. The optic includes the company’s Dual Stack Turret and wind-correction reticle. The package is factory-zeroed and guaranteed to assemble sub-MOA groups at 1,000 yards. It is shipped in a Boyt lockable hard case with two boxes of premium Hornady ammo. The 44.5-inch rifle folds to 34.5 inches and weighs 9.5 pounds. To learn more visit bestofthewestarms.com. Kick’s Industries Kick’s Gobblin’ Thunder choke tubes are the original extended/ported design and are now available for .410 shotguns, which have become all the rage in the sport with more companies adding turkey-targeted .410s to their lineup every year. Kick’s answers the demand for improved performance that turns gobbler heads to jelly. Gobblin’ Thunder .410 chokes are specifically designed for use with TSS shot, including a .385 constriction, and are available for virtually any .410 shotgun model on the market today. Kick’s chokes are manufactured from the highest quality 17-4PH stainless steel bar stock to be seamless, stout and reliable, and are then treated to a matte-black finish. Gobblin’ Thunder .410 chokes extend from the barrel’s muzzle approximately 1 3/8 inches and are angle ported to reduce recoil and deliver extremely tight and consistent pattern performance. To learn more visit kicks-ind.com. Reap Weaponries Reap’s Scy allows shooters to convert AR-15 rifles to a bullpup firearm offering complete modularity. The Scy works with most Mil-Spec lowers with removable trigger guard and standard M-LOK, KeyMod, or similar handguards. It can be set up for ambidextrous use and weighs 12 ounces. The kit moves the trigger interface 9 ¾ inches forward and adds less than 1.5 pounds of trigger-pull weight. It is recoil rated up to the 50 Beowulf. All components are made in the USA and it is adjustable to fit aftermarket triggers. The design improves maneuverability and weight distribution and includes no snag points. All internal components are CNC machined to strict quality tolerances, and assembled and tested by hand. Reap offers a lifetime warranty on components. The firearm is not included and the system is not recommended for use with barrels shorter than 11 inches. To learn more visit reapweaponries.com Starline Brass Starline Brass added the hugely versatile .30-06 Springfield to their growing lineup of high-quality pistol and rifle reloading cases—now including .300 HAM’R, 7.65mm French Long, .350 Legend, .348 Winchester, .375 Winchester, 5.56x45mm NATO, .222 Remington, .30-30 Winchester, .243 Winchester, and .223 Remington, among many others. The venerable .30-06 Springfield is chambered in every conceivable rifle type and has been used to down just about every game animal on earth. All Starline brass is produced using demanding quality control standards. Multiple hand and machine inspections ensure cosmetic and dimensional characteristics meet precise and exacting standards. Starline is family owned and prides itself on producing the highest quality brass available at the best possible price. Starline has been making quality brass for 40 years. To learn more visit starlinebrass.com. LOWDOWN Viewer The Lowdown Viewer has emerged as the most efficient way to digest thousands of SD card/trail camera images or hundreds of videos in the field. The 2023 ATA Show revealed yet more features and upgrades, making it faster and easier. The newest Viewer includes two full-sized SD card ports (one for captured images/videos, a second for storage) compatible with cards up to 128GB each. The 9-inch screen and new Scroll Bar feature allows moving through a loaded SD card quickly with the swipe of a finger. The new Snap Shot feature also allows users to pause videos or zoom in on a still image and move the single-frame snapshot or enlarged image to the save card. The Lowdown Viewer can also be used to format SD cards and a new Navigator Help System instructional video is built right into the Viewer, making it easier to operate. The unit is rechargeable at home or in a vehicle. To learn more visit lowdownviewer.com. Zeta Industries Zeta Industries’ K-Clip is a low cost, hexagonshaped speed loader that holds six rounds in a circular pattern for fast reloading. It’s designed specifically for K-framestyle revolvers. The K-CLIP is super compact, with no knobs or buttons to manipulate, making it great for concealed pocket carry. The thin, flexible polyethylene material allows the cartridges to flex and conform when in a pocket yet align rounds perfectly when reloading a revolver. The K-CLIP is modeled after the company’s J-CLIP, but redesigned for 6-shot D- and K-frame sized revolvers. Like the popular J-CLIP, Zeta set out to design the smallest and most comfortable pocket-carry speed loader available, while allowing fast reloading. With the recent reintroduction of medium-frame, 6-shot revolvers like Kimber’s K6s, Colt’s Cobra/King Cobra, and Taurus’ 856, Zeta set out to provide a better reloading solution. To learn more visit zetasix.com. Davidson’s Davidson’s collaborated with GLOCK, Holosun Technologies, and Gunsite Academy to produce the exclusive Gunsite GLOCK Service Pistol (GGSP) based on the Glock 45. This is a 9mm pistol combining a compact slide with full size frame and including the benefits of Gen5 upgrades. The Davidson’s Exclusive includes custom features such as a slide-mounted Holosun HE509T-RD X2 red dot sight set in a milled slot, not a plate. The sight includes a titanium housing, Holosun’s 50-K-hour battery life Super LED, multireticle system, solar failsafe, and shake-awake technology. The GGSP also holds Ameriglo suppressor-height sights, FBI rounded mag release, and lanyard loop. The GLOCK factory “minus connector” reduces trigger pull to about 4.5 pounds and the slide is engraved with the Gunsite raven. It comes with three 17-round magazines. To learn more visit davidsonsinc.com. TargetTack, LLC New TargetTacks provide an affordable, safe (reduced ricochet risk and no sharp edges), easy, and fool-proof way to attach paper targets to cardboard, vinyl, or other target-stand faces. The reusable, recyclable polymer construction is tough and will not allow targets to shift between shots. The three-edged, serrated spike holds securely and can be twisted a quarter turn when mounting holes loosen to tighten their hold. TargetTacks are offered in 1-inch models for cardboard/vinyl surfaces, 3-inch for most archery-style foam, bag or strawbased targets, and a Variety 8 Pack containing four 1- and four 3-inch TargetTacks. Wholesale partners can purchase TargetTacks in individual packs, bundle packs, or in bulk for use on commercial gun or archery ranges. TargetTacks prevent trash on the range, are easy for any shooter to use, and can also be used to hold wind flags. To learn more visit TargetTackLLC.com. Ocaso Knives Ocaso Knives’ Solstice is an example of the company’s elegant styling combined with rugged performance. The Solstice has a modern look, discreet lines, and weighs just 2.5 ounces with titanium handle and 1.7 ounces with carbon handle. The Solstice was crafted to exacting standards from American-made Crucible s35vn stainless steel, which provides exceptional edge retention and wear resistance. Damascus models are also offered. The Solstice also includes Ocaso’s proprietary fold-over/ambidextrous stainless steel deep carry pocket clip and stainless steel caged bearings. It includes fast, smooth singlefinger flip-out deployment. The sleek knife is 7.8 inches long closed, the blade 3.5-inch long with a straight-back, flat-grind design, finished in satin or black PVD. The blade lock is a linear design and the clip can be reversed for left- or right-hand carry. To learn more visit ocasoknives.com.

2023 FEATURED PRODUCTS march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 45 PrOlix PrOlix penetrating solvent/dry lube was lab-developed and thoroughly tested over multiple years. The citrus-based, biodegradable cleaner was pioneered in 1995 and is the first successful “all in one” gun care product, now deemed “Bio-Technology.” The recyclable (strain and reuse) products are made of 89-plus percent renewable resources; the USDA listed PrOlix as a BioPreferred Product since 2012. The solvent goes on wet, cleans, bonds, and the lube turns dry to the touch. It removes carbon, copper, lead, shotgun plastic residues, and black powder. PrOlix will not damage wood, freeze, or flash off, and it can be used for commercial and industrial applications. To complement the PrOlix Cleaner/Lubricant (Dry Tech) line is gun-oil and grease replacer PrOlix Xtra-T Lube. PrOlix TGCP is offered in 16-ounce PRO with an adjustable nozzle and trigger-sprayer cap. To learn more visit prolixlubricant.com. Sports South, LLC Sports South has been in business 180 years, a family-owned business operated by five generations of the Dickson family in Shreveport, Louisiana. Sports South has become one of the largest and most respected outdoor distributors around. Started by supplying firearms and ammunition to pioneering farmers, soldiers, and lawmen, Sports South has become one of the oldest and largest distributors of firearms, ammunition, and outdoor accessories in the country. Sports South maintains its leadership position through the relentless pursuit of new ideas to drive long-term success and growth. With the nation’s largest concentration of shooting sports inventory from leading manufacturers under one roof, Sports South can deliver unmatched distribution services to its customers. Family values permeate the company’s culture and the company is dedicated to its hundreds of employees. To learn more visit theshootingwarehouse.com. Firearms Legal Protection We live in a dangerous and politicallycharged world. You have taken steps to protect yourself and those around you physically, but what if the very act of doing so could jeopardize you or your family legally and financially? Even in a justified self-defense shooting, there is a good chance you will be arrested and required to post bail and appear in court. If the situation is ruled to be a true case of self-defense, it will likely result in a non-conviction. Yet during the entire process you will require legal counsel to present your case and defend you from prosecution. That is where Firearms Legal Protection comes in. They will pay 100 percent of the attorney fees for their members (they pay the attorney directly, so you don’t have to wait for reimbursement like other insurance companies), while also providing many other benefits such as bail bond protection, expert witnesses, and more. To learn more visit firearmslegal.com. BukTek BukTek’s TacBox securely holds any handgun while also keeping it within easy reach. The TacBox is molded from durable ABS plastic and lined with urethane foam. TacBoxes can be attached to any surface—vertically, horizontally, or hanging. The $21.99 TacBox can be utilized in a vehicle by anchoring it inside a center console, beside the driver’s seat, or beneath the dash. It can also be placed on a night stand, beneath a desk, or inside gun safes for neater storage. The TacBox leaves handguns mounted in a consistent place and position, allowing instant reaction to threats while under duress. The TacBox is offered for full-size semi-auto handguns measuring more than an inch wide (FS10) and sub-compact semi-auto handguns measuring 3/4- to 1-inch wide (FS20)—with a new TacBox Mini coming soon. Each TacBox holds a handgun and two spare magazines. It’s offered in black and olive green. To learn more visit thetacbox.com. Black Hills Ammunition Black Hills Ammunition is offering three new loads for 2023, including 10mm Auto 115-grain HoneyBadger, 6mm ARC 103-grain Hornady ELD-X, and 6.5 PRC 143-grain ELD-X loads. The 10mm HoneyBadger load is designed for defense against large four-legged predators, providing 44 Magnum energy delivery from the 10mm Auto via an all-copper bullet traveling at 1600 fps and capable of penetrating 23 inches of ballistic gelatin while producing a 4.5-inch wound channel. The 6mm ARC load was designed to increase performance from the M4/AR-15 platform by pushing a 103-grain ELD-X to 2600 fps from an 18-inch barrel. Finally, the 6.5 PRC round pushes a ballistically talented 143-grain ELD-X 250 fps faster than the popular 6.5 Creedmoor. All loads deliver the accuracy and performance Black Hills is known for. To learn more visit www.black-hills.com. Timber Creek Outdoors Timber Creek’s new-for-2023 Precision Rifle Chassis includes the design and color schemes the company has long been known for—from the MSR/AR-15 to the bolt-action firearms market. These precision-milled chassis are created from aircraft-grade aluminum for ultimate stability in any weather or temperature. They are compatible with any right-hand, short action Remington Model 700 or clones with the same footprint. The milled-aluminum design is heavily skeletonized and weighs just 22 ounces (about 1.4 pounds). The Timber Creek Precision Rifle Stock is designed to accept standard MSR/AR-15 buffer tubes and pistol grips, offering more customization possibilities. The chassis includes an integral barrier stop, trigger guard, and vented forearm. It makes a snazzy but practical addition to any custom rifle build. To learn more visit timbercreekoutdoorsinc.com. Red Arrow Weapons Red Arrow Weapons’ 5.56 NATO lineup now includes a rifle and pistols with 9- or 7-inch handguards. The 5.56 NATO models feature premium options such as an ambidextrous selector, 2.5-pound CMC drop-in trigger, sub-MOA barrel, and Magpul accessories. Red Arrow Weapons (RAW) partnered with a select group of U.S. Special Forces operators to develop firearms that are both functional and dependable when it counts, and all include a lot of bang for the buck. RAW firearms are designed to be out-of-the-box ready, delivering accuracy and reliability in the field, on the range, and in personal defense situations. RAW pistols and rifles are the perfect option for those looking for the versatility of the AR platform with each firearm designed to meet the personal specifications of RAW founder, outdoorsman, and host of the award-winning hunting show Red Arrow, Kip Campbell. To learn more visit redarrowweapons.com. 1791 EDC 1791 EDC (Every Day Carry) offers 15 new options for organizing and toting essential tools such as a folding knife, mini flashlight, multi-tool, and keys on the belt where they remain instantly accessible. All are made of top-quality leather and include dual slots to slide onto belts up to 1.5 inches wide. They are offered in standard and heavy-duty. Options vary from a simple Solo Snap to hold a single multi-tool inside a protective pouch with a fold-over/snap top, to the Easy-Slide Solo with an open, friction-fit pouch and Easy-Slide Solo Canted for faster access, to Easy-Slide Small, Medium and Large Flex models that hold a folding knife, mini flashlight, and multi-tool in one sturdy sheath. One or two key-ring loops are provided on several models as well. They are offered in Black, Burgundy, and Chestnut leather to fit any taste or attire. They make a fine addition to the company’s holster lineup. To learn more visit 1791edc.com. Comp-N-Choke Comp-N-Choke has introduced the new ARC Series of nonported choke tubes to complement the company’s field- and competition-proven ported choke tubes. The ARC Series includes high performance choke tubes milled from the highest-grade bar-stock steels and designed to provide maximized pattern performance from any shotgun model, whether hunting waterfowl, spring gobblers, or upland favorites such as pheasants and grouse. They include no seams for unsurpassed strength and reliability. Comp-N-Choke has invested 30 years in the research and development of shotgun chokes. They keep chokes in stock for all gauges in multiple constrictions and for a huge variety of brands and models to ensure customers are getting the best performance possible from their favorite shotgun and the ability to choose the ideal pattern density for any shooting game. To learn more visit compnchoke.com.

46 | inside firearms | march 2023 market trends | gear report Kick’s Gobblin’Thunder .410 Choke Tube I grew up hunting with a .410 shotgun and have long understood the shotshell’s long, stringing shot column made it best suited to stationary targets—like the cottontail rabbits of my youth. So, it wasn’t much of a surprise when hunters started using the .410 for calledin turkeys around a decade ago. What started as a parlor trick has turned into a craze, with more spring gobbler hunters than ever turning to our smallest shotgun gauge (technically a caliber) to knock the strut out of the biggest bearded birds. Turkey-targeted .410 shotgun models like the Tri-Star Viper G2 Camo Turkey semi-auto, Mossberg 500 Turkey pump, or Savage 301 Turkey Obsession breakaction/single shot—just as quick examples— have become all the rage. Of course, it is the specialized shotshells, particularly TSS tungsten 9-shot (equivalent to 5-shot lead) and refined choke tubes that make all this possible. World-renowned Gobblin’ Thunder chokes by Kick’s Industries are the original extended/ported tube designs and are now available from the company in .410. These carefully engineered chokes were designed to markedly extend shotshell range and put more pellets in the vital head/neck area of turkeys. The ported design also reduces recoil from magnum shotgun shells. Gobblin’ Thunder .410 chokes are specifically designed for use with TSS turkey loads, using a 0.385 constriction that has been found to produce the very best results. These chokes are available for virtually any .410 shotgun model on the market today. They are milled from a single billet of high-quality 17-4PH stainless steel and include no seams, for superior durability. Each receives an ultradurable, chemically-applied matte-black finish, with camouflage versions also offered. The .410 chokes extend from the muzzle approximately 1.375 inches. The round/angled porting reduces recoil, and when combined with the unique conical/interior design delivers extremely tight and consistent patterns. This translates directly into denser patterns and more shot pellets in a turkey’s noggin for dead-rightthere performance. The chokes are easily installed without a wrench. A .410 shotgun, TSS, and Gobblin’ Thunder .410 choke tube combination makes the ideal youth turkey medicine, offering hugely reduced recoil compared to traditional 10- and 12-gauge turkey guns, while including less muzzle rise for quicker follow-up shots should nerves get the best of a shooter. Combine the right mix of shotshell, pellet size, choke restriction, and shotgun, and Gobblin’ Thunder .410 chokes can be expected to create a 14- to 16-inch pattern out to 40 yards—or about as far as I care to shoot turkeys with any shotgun gauge. In addition to the .410 models, Gobblin’ Thunder choke tubes are produced for 28-, 20-, 16-, 12-, and 10-gauge shotguns in various choke constrictions compatible with #4, #5 and #6 shots and 3 1/2-, 3- and 2 ¾-inch shotshells. They are made for just about any popular shotgun brand and model currently available (I count 40-plus models on their website). Check them out by visiting kicks-ind.com. By Patrick Meitin

48 | inside firearms | march 2023 BY KAT AINSWORTH STEVENS F or those focused on selfdefense, handgun selection is about far more than choosing an aesthetically pleasing or flat-shooting firearm. After all, guns are purpose-driven tools, and the handgun used for your customer’s daily carry must check certain boxes on a list only they can compile. Whether your customers are looking for a sub-compact for deep concealment in non-permissive environments or a full-sized pistol for home defense, we have you covered. Check out our list of handguns to consider for your 2023 EDC or home defense weapon.

march 2023 | insidefirearms.com | 49 Full-Sized Handguns CANIK • When it comes to purpose-driven firearms, reliability and durability are key. The Canik SFx Rival-S is a good example of a gun that’s built to take a beating. It’s a full-size pistol chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum and it’s all metal. The SFx Rival-S is offered with either a shiny Chrome or Dark Side (black) finish. It has a 5.0 inch barrel and weighs 2.61 pounds empty, so it has the barrel length and bulk necessary to mitigate felt recoil. The gun has deep, wide slide serrations at the forward and rearward portions of the slide. In addition, the slide is ported to help reduce muzzle rise and keep the gun flatter during live fire. An accessory rail in front of the trigger guard is fantastic for the addition of weapon mounted lights or lasers and the gun is optics ready, so shooters can use a red dot sight if they so choose. The SFx Rival-S has an 18 +1 capacity and an extended magwell for faster magazine changes. Visit canikarms.com to learn more. COSAINT ARMS • The 1911 platform has been around a long time and seems to generate strong feelings. If its typically reduced capacity is what dissuades a customer from carrying one, they might reconsider after checking out the Cosaint Arms C0S21 Double Stack Government. This is a full-sized 1911 with a doublestack magazine, meaning it has more than twice the capacity of a traditional single-stack 1911; capacity dependent on caliber. Cosaint Arms— which is pronounced “co-sent” and is an Irish word that translates to “protection”—is a high-end, custom-built Canik SFx Rival-S Cosaint Arms COS21 Double Stack Government FN Five-seveN MRD Hi-Point JXP10

50 | inside firearms | march 2023 pistol manufacturer. Their doublestack guns in Government have the requisite 5-inch barrel and fullsized steel frame. Features include competition adjustable Bomar rear and fiber optic front sights, MBX magazines, and ambidextrous safeties. The trigger is skeletonized and has a glass-rod crisp break and a measured pull weight of 3.5 pounds. There are a wide range of Cerakote finish options available. Cosaint offers the COS21 DS Government in 9mm, .45 ACP, and 10mm. Visit cosaintarms.com to learn more. FN • There is no denying recent years’ pandemic-related ammunition shortages continue to affect the gun industry. One result is that more people are gravitating toward guns chambered in the calibers that remained on the shelf when all others vanished. The 5.7x28mm is such a chambering, and the FN Five-seveN MRD might be the most popular handgun for it. The Five-seveN MRD is a full-sized defensive handgun chambered in 5.7x28mm, a cartridge originally created by FN Herstal. It’s made to compete with—if not outdo—the 9mm. This is a defensive option that produces impressive ballistics and is relied on by many foreign militaries. The MRD version of the Five-seveN family of pistols is optics-ready, making it easy to mount a red dot. This gun has a 20 +1 capacity, although a 10 +1 capacity magazine is offered for restricted states. Visit fnamerica.com to learn more. HI-POINT • With the launch of the JXP10, Hi-Point officially enters the larger-caliber handgun market. This gun is chambered in 10mm Auto and offers a few features that set it apart from the company’s previous handgun line. It has a 5.2 inch barrel, the length of which can help offset felt recoil, and an overall length of 8.5 inches. With a 49 ounce empty weight, this is a gun that’s also hefty enough to reduce felt recoil and muzzle rise, which can mean a more accurate pistol. The JXP10 has a threaded barrel, so it’s compensator or suppressor ready, and Hi-Point gave it an accessory rail in front of the trigger guard. It’s also red dot ready. That makes this a highly customizable pistol, and at budget-friendly prices. The JXP10 has a 10 +1 capacity. Additional features include a textured grip, sharply angled slide serrations at the front and back of the slide, and a squared-off trigger guard. Visit hi-pointfirearms.com to learn more. ROCK ISLAND ARMORY • The Rock Island Armory RIA 5.0 is a fullsized handgun the company states is a game changer. That’s a hefty claim to make, but the gun does offer a bevy of features to recommend it for defensive use. The RIA 5.0 is a 9x19mm Parabellum pistol with a 17 +1 capacity, two-piece modular frame, and the company’s patented RVS recoil system. Other features include angled serrations at the front and rear of the slide for easier slide manipulations and an aggressively textured grip. An accessory rail ahead of the trigger guard makes it possible to add weapon mounted lights and lasers if the shooter so desires. This pistol is available with iron sights or a C More RTS II red dot sight, so if the user is a fan of dots, they can get one ready to go. The RIA 5.0 is designed to be a flat-shooting pistol with reduced Rock Island Armory RIA 5.0 Savage Arms Government 1911 SIG Sauer P320 XFIVE DH3 SIG Sauer P320 XTEN