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.38 Smith & Wesson: The Other .38 Revolver Round

By
Jim Maybrick
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38 s&w cartridge history and use

The most popular revolver cartridge has long been the .38 Special. That is with good reason. The .38 Special has enjoyed decades of popularity in law enforcement and military circles that have long translated over to the shooting public. It’s a good balance of power and accuracy, which still makes it a compelling choice for personal defense.

When someone calls out a .38 pistol or .38 revolver, chances are it is one in .38 Special, but not always. There are several different .38 caliber cartridges that have been used in revolvers. The most popular of these, outside the .38 Special, is the .38 Smith & Wesson cartridge. Here is the history and utility of the .38 S&W.

The .38 Smith & Wesson


Origins of the .38 S&W

Medium caliber revolvers in .36 or .38 caliber were considered large enough to fight with but lighter to carry than existing .44 and .45 caliber handguns. In the cartridge era, rounds like the .38 Short and Long Colt in revolvers like the Colt Model 1877 fit that bill. But even revolvers like these did not sell quite as well as pocket guns.

The problem with these smaller guns is correspondingly smaller rounds with diminished power. .22 Short, .32 rimfire, and even the stubby .41 rimfire cartridge were popular chamberings, but none packed much of a punch. Smith & Wesson sought to change that by pairing its new No. 2 Single Action pocket revolver with the new .38 S&W in 1878.

38 s&w cartridges and black powder grains
The .38 S&W cartridge was first marketed in the black powder era, but most modern loadings use smokeless powder.

The .38 S&W started life as a black powder cartridge. It held ten grains of powder and a 145-grain lead round-nosed bullet. Muzzle velocity averages just under 700 feet per second.

It did not have the power of rounds like the .45 Colt, but it was only a slight step down from .38 Colt and a far superior round compared to other pocket pistol cartridges of its time. It also used a modern inside-lubricated bullet instead of a debris-prone heeled bullet like those used on .22 LR and .38 Colt.

The Rise and Fall of the .38 S&W

Because of its fair ballistics, the .38 S&W enjoyed popular success for decades in the concealed carry handgun market. Smith & Wesson, the creator of the round, propped it up with popular offerings like the Smith & Wesson New Departure break-top revolver. Otherwise known as the S&W Lemon Squeezer, this model was offered from 1887 to 1940 and was offered in .38 S&W.

The New Departure inspired cheaper imitators. Hopkins & Allen, Harrington & Richardson, and Iver Johnson are three of the best-known companies that marketed small break-action clones—all of which came in .38 S&W.

smith and wesson new departure 38 s&w
The Smith & Wesson New Departure was one of the most popular concealed carry handguns. It was available in a small-frame model in .32 S&W and a larger model in .38 S&W.

At the dawn of the swing-out cylinder revolver in the 1890s, Colt offered revolvers chambered in the cartridge. Among the first was the Colt Police Positive, which debuted in 1905 and became the archetypical early 20th-century police sidearm. To avoid giving their rival any publicity, Colt called the cartridge the .38 Colt New Police.

The only material difference between .38 S&W and .38 Colt New Police is Colt’s use of a flat-point instead of a round-nosed bullet. On its introduction in 1927, batches of Colt Detective Special snub-nosed revolvers were produced in .38 Colt New Police. Smith & Wesson followed with the Terrier revolver in 1936, which was built on the tiny five-shot I-frame that later became the J-frame.

.38 Special Challenges the .38 S&W

But by the time of these first snub-nosed revolvers, the popularity of the .38 S&W had waned in favor of the more powerful .38 Special cartridge, which took advantage of the strength of solid-framed swing-out cylinder revolvers.

smith & wesson m&p
The Smith & Wesson M&P gave birth to the .38 Special. But hundreds of thousands of them were chambered in .38-200 for the Commonwealth forces during World War II.

The .38 S&W Special was introduced in 1898 for Smith & Wesson’s new medium frame M&P revolver. The cartridge was an immediate hit, particularly among law enforcement, where the .32 S&W Long and the .38 S&W dominated. Existing designs could be retrofitted with a longer cylinder to fire the more powerful round. The Colt Police Positive Special was just such a gun.

The Smith & Wesson Terrier got a similar treatment in 1950 when the I-frame was beefed up and given an elongated cylinder to become the Chief’s Special in .38 Special. The Terrier, now the Model 33, would continue on into the 1970s, but the .38 S&W’s popularity, which had ebbed through the 1920s, effectively came to an end when Smith & Wesson and Iver Johnson quit producing their top-break revolvers shortly before World War II.

.38-200: The Unnecessary Sequel

Just as Sean Connery was fading into memory as James Bond, he reprised the role in geriatric fashion in 1983’s Never Say Never Again. The remake was uninspiring and unnecessary, but some fans insist on it as canon.

Similarly, the .38 S&W was functionally obsolete when the British Army adopted the Enfield No. 2 revolver in 1932. With it came a new, dressed-up version of the .38 S&W cartridge, now with a heavier 200-grain bullet. Not only is the .38-200 canon, but it also enjoyed surprising longevity.

The British adopted the .38-200 as a cartridge that would mimic the ballistics of the famous .455 Webley revolver but in a lighter, less recoiling package. The 200-grain bullet, borrowed from a Colt police loading for the .38 S&W, left the muzzle slowly and was intended to tumble on impact for greater stopping power.

For its part, the existing .38 S&W cartridge, known as .380, was popular in England, and its short case length made it ideal for break-top revolvers, which the British preferred.

enfield revolver and ammunition
The .38-200 cartridge debuted with the Enfield No. 2 revolver in 1932.

.38-200 Ballistics

The decent, slow but heavy ballistics of the .38-200 were nipped shortly before World War II with the introduction of a 174-grain FMJ bullet over concerns of violating the Hague Accords. This less-than-optimal round was Britain’s standard pistol round during World War II, the Korean War, and the Malay Emergency.

Britain and her Commonwealth fielded the Enfield No. 2 and Webley Mk. IV revolvers, but there were never enough to meet demand. Colt and Smith & Wesson were contracted to produce their Official Police and M&P revolvers in .38-200. Close to 600,000 of these Smith & Wesson M&Ps, otherwise known as the Victory Model, were supplied to the British Empire. Less than 50,000 Colts were produced.

Britain phased out its revolvers in 1963, but the .38-200 cartridge remained a popular police cartridge in the far reaches of its former Empire. Webley continued to make the Mk. IV until 1994, with the post-war batches taken up by Israel, India, and even Hong Kong.

Until production ended in 1988, Ruger produced runs of its Speed Six revolvers in .38 S&W specifically for Indian sales. A humble little pocket pistol cartridge introduced well before the turn of the century continued on until the turn of this century.

.38 S&W FAQs

Black Powder or Smokeless Powder?

The .38 S&W may have started life as a black powder cartridge, but it made the jump to smokeless powder like the .38 Special did at the turn of the 20th century. But with the vast number of guns produced during the black powder era, as well as cheap copies of solid guns, ammunition manufacturers tend to load the .38 S&W lightly for the sake of liability.

Whether it is safe to use smokeless powder is dependent on the firearm and the time it was made. Solid frame revolvers like the Smith & Wesson Victory Model are perfectly safe and proofed with smokeless ammo. Some old top-break revolvers are suspect.

For example, the first two iterations of the Smith & Wesson New Departure made up through 1909 are black powder guns, but the last two model types are smokeless-rated. Iver Johnson went to smokeless in 1909. Interestingly, H&R beat them both in 1905. These old guns should also be checked for mechanical soundness before attempting to fire them.

You might also ask if it’s safe to fire downloaded .38 S&W in a black powder gun? The short answer is no. Some shooters, including myself, have gotten away with it. But that does not make it a good idea. Even when downloaded to below black powder pressures, smokeless powder pressures peak for longer than black powder. That will induce more wear over time and compel something catastrophic if the handgun is not sound.

What Ammunitions are Available?

Most manufacturers stock a loading for .38 S&W. As a rule, these feature a 145- or 146-grain lead or full metal jacket bullet. Due to being loaded lightly, muzzle velocity is a sedate 600 feet per second tops. Recoil is minimal, and the report is a pop rather than a bang.

Buffalo Arms offers runs of black powder 150-grain loads that are stouter and can reach 700 feet per second for a modest 163 foot pounds of energy—not unlike modern .380 ACP but with a heavier bullet. Steinel is the only company to produce the .38-200 with a 200-grain bullet. These are safe in the older top-break guns, but run hotter than normal .38 S&W out of the longer barrel of a service revolver.

Buffalo Bore also offers a 125-grain hard cast defensive load rated only for the Webley, Enfield, and other swing-out cylinder revolvers. This load is the stoutest of all three, with a velocity of just shy of 1,000 feet per second. But none of these rounds are prohibitive to shoot.

What Bullet Size Do I Use?

Accuracy comes down to the shooter, but also to bullet sizing. The .38 S&W is an unusually accurate round thanks to its sedate ballistics. But what you can get out of a short-barreled Iver Johnson will vary from what you can get out of a British Webley.

Bullet sizing is more consequential. The .38 S&W is shorter than .38 Special, and it uses a .361-inch diameter bullet, rather than the .357-.358 inch round used in .38 Special and .357 Magnum revolvers. This makes it challenging to reload for, as .357 inch bullet molds are plentiful, whereas .360-61 molds are rarely produced by Lyman and Saeco. Some shooters have taken to powder coating .357 rounds or using hollow-based bullets for best accuracy from the reloading bench.

.38 S&W in Your .38 Special?

On the face of it, the shorter, fatter .38 S&W should not be able to fit in a .38 Special revolver. But the difference in bullet diameter and case width is so minutely bigger, the .38 S&W can fit in some .38 Special revolvers, depending on the tolerances of the revolver’s chambers.

Benelli CB-M2 – A Caseless SMG

By
Travis Pike
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Benelli is mainly known for its shotguns. They make some of the best semi-auto shotguns on the planet. Benelli also makes a few rifles, but not much more. It is a company with a focus. That doesn’t mean it never tried other guns. In fact, it tends to be creative with its other handguns. One of those is the Benelli CB-M2, Benelli’s first and only submachine gun.

The Benelli CB-M2 And How to Make an SMG

It’s surprisingly easy to make a submachine gun. That’s why we have the Sten, Grease Gun, and why Luty taught us all the potential for an at-home machine shop. Make it straight blowback, chamber it for 9mm, and if you’re fancy, make it a closed bolt.

Boom, now you have a submachine gun. Benelli could have very easily done that, but if that was the case, the submachine gun might have succeeded, and if it didn’t, we wouldn’t be talking about it anyway.

The Benelli CB-M2 did things differently.

What Made the Benelli CB-M2 Different

The ammo makes the Benelli CB-M2 interesting and worth writing about. Benelli partnered with Fiocchi to produce a unique cartridge for the gun. While the cartridge makes it interesting, it’s likely why the weapon failed. The cartridge is known as the 9mm AUPO or 9x25mm AUPO.

The 9×25 AUPO is an experiment in caseless ammunition. The idea behind caseless ammo gathered steam in the late 70s and 80s, but faded away quickly. The 9x25mm AUPO had no case, but the entire projectile was 25 mm long. The base was hollow, allowed propellant to be packed into the case, and used a ring of primer component. A fulminate plug sealed the system.

When fired, the rear portion holding the powder and primer detached from the projectile. This would make the ammo better described as semi-caseless than actual caseless ammo. The round moved at 1,200 feet per second and was essentially the same as a 9mm Parabellum ballistically.

This ammo design had issues, namely the potential to cook off. Cases act as heat sinks. Caseless ammo could create a simpler gun that theoretically wouldn’t need an extractor or ejector, which makes it cheap and arguably a little more reliable since there is less stuff to break. However, you need an extractor to clear a gun and fix malfunctions, which the CB-M2 had.

A Benelli SMG – What Else?

The CB-M2 does have a fairly unique look. It looks like a gun from RoboCop to me. It used a simple blowback operation, which is standard for the era. I’m surprised they didn’t go with a roller-delayed system to refine the weapon a little more, especially since you were selling it with a new, futuristic type of ammo.

The CB-M2 utilizes a long 40-round magazine that looks absurd. Between the magazine well and the trigger sits a cutout that acts as an ejection port. This is only used for fixing malfunctions and clearing the gun. Typically, brass-cased ammo expands, forming a gas seal.

Since the ammo had no case, the chamber had to be bored to allow the bolt to partially enter the chamber and create a gas seal. The firing pin struck downward on the case rather than on the ass end, which ignited the primer compound and fired the cartridge.

The gun’s rate of fire was 800-1000 rounds per minute. The barrel was 7.8 inches long, and the overall length, with its folding stock extended, was just a hair under 26 inches. The gun weighed 7.5 pounds total.

The stock appears to overfold. It seems to be a minimalist stock. It also appears that the grip has a grip safety. Benelli always used a lot of polymer in the construction of the gun. This helped save weight and likely made the weapon easier to produce. Overall, it looks neat and seems to be ergonomic, but it failed to attract any purchasers.

Why Did it Fail?

Ultimately, the Benelli CB-M2 failed to do anything new. The ammo wasn’t lighter or more useful than 9×19. It also introduced a new ammo type, which I’d assume was more expensive than standard 9×19. The gun failed to be simpler or offer any advantage to other SMGs out there. It didn’t do much or offer agencies any significant advantages.

It’s a neat gun, but I could see why it’s a hard sell.

Surgical Precision – The Boker Plus Scalpel

By
Jim Cobb
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Boker Plus Scalpel

I picked this up on a lark, but it’s proven to be pretty handy. The Boker Plus Scalpel works well as a small and affordable EDC blade option, provided you have a good understanding of its capabilities and its limitations.

The Boker Plus Scalpel

The Scalpel runs a hair shy of five inches from end to end. The blade is 1.65 inches long and 0.10 inches thick. It’s all one piece of D2 steel. The Scalpel weighs barely half an ounce. All told, it’s a fraction of the size of most other EDC knives.

Boker Plus Scalpel and Swiss Army Knife
The Boker Plus Scalpel makes an average Swiss Army Knife look huge.

There are epoxy inserts along the handle that provide some additional traction for grip. There’s also a tiny bit of jimping along the spine.

It comes with a Kydex sheath that holds the Scalpel securely. There is a beaded chain included for neck carry. The chain is roughly 28 inches long. On me, this puts the sheath right at about my sternum, which is perfect to be able to reach the knife when it’s needed.

Boker Plus Scalpel Performance

This is a neat little knife. It’s so small and lightweight, it almost disappears when you’re carrying it. It’s patterned after a surgical scalpel, so think along the lines of an X-ACTO knife when it comes to using it, albeit one that doesn’t have a removable blade.

I’ve used it for breaking down boxes, opening mail, and cutting bits of cordage here and there. This isn’t a knife that you’d want to use for extended periods of time, due to the slim handle. I feel like after a while, your hand would start to cramp. And it’s certainly not a great option for a defense weapon, even a last-ditch one.

Boker Plus Scalpel as neck carry
The Boker Plus Scalpel works nicely as a neck knife for EDC.

It seems to hold a decent edge. That’s not surprising, given that it’s D2 steel. This is a knife steel that’s been around for a while and is known for edge retention as well as toughness. However, it also has a reputation for being difficult to sharpen. The best suggestion is to not let the edge get away from you. Hone it often on a strop if you’re using the Scalpel regularly. If you allow the blade to get truly dull, you may have some work cut out for you.

Boker Plus Scalpel Best Uses

The Scalpel is particularly well-suited for work environments that might frown upon a more traditional folding knife or fixed blade. It has a unique appearance that might catch the eye, but not in a negative sense.

I could also see adding one of these to a survival kit as a backup blade. It might not be ideal, but it’ll get the job done. It’s small enough and light enough to fit in any kit larger than an Altoids tin or thereabouts.

One of the best features of the Scalpel is the price. It currently retails for under $40 at DLT Trading. At that price, you might able to pick up a few of them over time and scatter them throughout different kits as well as keep one handy for EDC.

Astra Model 1916 Hope – An Excellent Example of Spanish Handgun Design

By
Travis Pike
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The Astra Model 1916 Hope Pistol is an excellent example of Spanish handguns and Spanish handgun design. I love Spanish handgun design. It’s not because it’s been historically innovative; it’s because it’s been historically consistent. Modern Spanish handgun design started around World War I and followed a theme until Astra and Star shut their doors.

The Impetus of the Astra Model 1916 Hope

World War I propelled the Spanish arms industry by producing the Ruby pistols, which were clones of the Colt M1903 Pocket Hammerless. The Ruby pistols set the tone for Spanish firearm manufacturing for decades to follow. Spanish handgun design goes like this: Take a popular pistol, change a few things, boom, you’re done.

The Ruby wasn’t a direct clone. The Spanish made some changes, but they kept the enclosed single-action hammer and blowback action of the original Colt pistols. They extended the grip, increased the magazine capacity, used a straighter grip angle, and moved the safety and slide lock in front of the grip. They eliminated the grip safety and added a lanyard loop.

The Astra Model 1916 is part of the later generation of Ruby pistols. Esperanza y Unceta made somewhere close to a million of these guns and sold them as Astras, Brunswicks, and Victorias. Esperanza y Unceta later became Astra and remained Astra until it shut down.

The Astra Model 1916 Hope

The Astra Model 1916 pistols were the last generation of Ruby pistols produced for the French Military. After World War I, Spanish Arms makers kept producing these guns, and the Spanish famously used odd, often unexplainable names. Some of the Astra Model 1916s are called Hope and are designated by the word Hope on the chamber.

The Astra Model 1916 I have is a .32 ACP pistol, smaller than most Ruby pistols. It’s smaller than both the Ruby pistols and Colt M1903 Pocket Hammerless models. The gun has a seven-round magazine, the traditional Ruby safety, and a lanyard loop. In a very unmilitary-like fashion, it’s also nickel-coated, or appears to be. Who knows what the coating actually consists of?

This Astra Model 1916 isn’t to be confused with the Astra Model 1916 Hope, which is a Baby Browning copy in .25 ACP. Yeah, it gets a little confusing. These little guns were imported in mass quantities with all sorts of odd names attached. It seems like Astra used the Family Guy idea of naming guns and let manatees do it.

The heel magazine release is normal for the era. What’s weird is that the magazine has a second cutout that allows it to stop about two-thirds after it has been inserted. This prevents the magazine from reaching a feeding position. I can only assume this cut was for military purposes, so the magazine sticks with the gun, but the user can ensure it’s unloaded.

Shooting Astra Model 1916 Hope

I love shooting the Astra Model 1916, Hope, and similar old-school .32 ACPs. They tend to be very pleasant to shoot, with soft recoil. These guns are small, easy to operate, and have a historical edge. The Model 1916 barely moves between shots; it’s downright cute and handles quite nicely.

It seems like Astra entered a contest to put the absolute smallest sights possible on the Astra Model 1916. They are barely present. The shiny finish makes them difficult to use, with the sun reflecting off them. It’s a bit of guesswork to figure out where you will hit. It’s one of the few guns I’ll accept the old “You won’t see your sights in a gunfight!” saying.

I can’t see the sights at the flat range. Using an FBI Q target at seven yards, I point-shot my way through a few magazines. Accuracy is fine. If the gun had real sights, it might prove to be quite accurate. At seven yards, I could point-shoot for headshots. The lack of recoil makes it easy to shoot quickly.

In fact, the most fun I had was shooting with a one-handed shooting style that was typical of WWI officers. Body bladed, arm straight, firing the gun with the determined attitude of a French officer. The Model 1916 would be a solid carry gun in the post-Great War world. It hides with ease, and it’s slick and smooth for easy carry.

The Modern Era

Tons of these Ruby pistols were produced. Knowing if one was a World War I-issued gun is close to impossible. By the shiny finish, I can assume this wasn’t a military pistol. As a Ruby collector, I can attest to their rock-bottom price point. The post-war Ruby pistols are even cheaper, and I bought this one for $120 at an auction.

The Spanish Ruby pistols are a great way to start if you want to collect old guns. I imagine that, like all things surplus, the price will rise, and even pistols like the Hope will be less obtainable. Plus, they tend to be fun shooters and are far from safe queens.

EDC Tool with a Unique Name – The MicroDickPick from Wingard Wearables

By
Jim Cobb
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MicroDickPick from Wingard Wearables

It might have a name that could raise eyebrows with some people (be careful when you search the internet for it), but the MicroDickPick is a handy addition to your EDC. With a deceptively simple design, it performs several functions without weighing you down.

The Unique MicroDickPick EDC Tool

The MicroDickPick is from Wingard Wearables. We’ve previously reviewed another of their EDC options, the Quill. The owner of the company is Zac Wingard. He has a creative and innovative eye for tool design. Wingard Wearables has been around for a little while, but they seem to fly under the radar a bit.

MicroDickPick Specs

The MicroDickPick is made from 0.1875-inch AEB-L stainless steel. It’s been heat-treated to 55-60 Rockwell. It’s left in a rectangular cross-section. The edges are hand-filed to provide a nice, comfortable grip. The MicroDickPick is sharp, but only where it’s supposed to be.

It runs 4.625 inches long. Across the hammer end, it’s 2.625 inches. All told, it weighs 1.2 ounces on my scale.

The Wingard Wearables MicroDickPick comes with a Kydex sheath. The sheath has shock cords and strong alligator clips. These are used to attach it just about anywhere on your clothing, such as inside a jacket. This keeps it easily accessible. The eyelets on the sheath are compatible with most aftermarket carry clips, should you wish to go that route.

There are two larger models. The Full-sized DickPick is 6.5 inches long and 3.0 inches across, and the DickPick Magnum is a full 12 inches long and 4.5 inches across.

MicroDickPick Uses

The long end terminates in a needle-sharp point. This makes it a nifty marlinspike option. Need to pick apart a stubborn knot? Pry up an O-ring? Punch a hole in a leather belt? The MicroDickPick is there to lend a hand.

At the opposite end is sort of a hammer and pry bar combination. The tool has a curved surface, providing leverage when you’re prying things apart. This, combined with a comparatively long handle, gives you more leverage and power than you may think.  

MicroDickPick pry bar end
The pry bar end of the MicroDickPick has a curve, which provides leverage.

The hammer face is small, and the tool is very light, so you’re not going to be assembling furniture with it. That said, it taps small parts into place just fine.

MicroDickPick for Defense

In most defense situations, a weapon that goes bang will be ideal. As a secondary option, the MicroDickPick can be used defensively in a few different ways.

MicroDickPick sheath
The included Kydex sheath for the MicroDickPick has a couple of shock cords with alligator clips to attach it to your clothing.

Holding it with the pry bar in your palm and the spike jutting out from your closed fingers turns it into a nifty punch dagger of sorts. You can also reverse it into an icepick grip, with the pry bar resting between your fingers. This allows you to hammer fist the spike down into a target or rake the pry bar across the face of an attacker.

MicroDickPick and Buck 110
Most of our readers are probably familiar with the Buck 110, so we’re using that as a size comparison to the MicroDickPick.

Like the Quill, the MicroDickPick (as well as its larger brothers) is a unique EDC concept that has several applications. Wingard Wearables takes an outside-the-box approach to their designs, and this one is definitely a winner.

Find it at Wingard Wearables. It currently retails for $105.

Field Sharpeners: For Adventurers Afoot

By
Reuben Bolieu
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The Smith’s Pocket Pal is a compact knife sharpener with carbide blades for quick edge setting and ceramic stones for a polished finish. It also includes a fold-out diamond-coated rod for sharpening serrations and hooks.

Lightweight field sharpeners are essential for hikers and backpackers. They allow quick maintenance of knife and gear edges, enhancing efficiency in tasks like food preparation and firewood cutting. A compact sharpener reduces pack weight, improving comfort and mobility on long treks. It provides easy access for quick sharpening, preventing the hassle of dull tools and enhancing safety. By choosing lightweight options, hikers stay prepared without adding unnecessary weight to their gear.

Field Sharpeners

For centuries, adventurers and craftsmen have depended on small, portable knife and tool sharpeners. These keep their edges sharp and ready for action. These handy field sharpeners are invaluable companions. They allow users to maintain their equipment whether hiking, camping, or working in a workshop. 

Picture this: you’re trekking through the woods, and your trusty knife loses its edge. You can quickly restore its cutting power with a lightweight sharpener in your pocket. These compact sharpeners blend convenience with performance, ensuring you never have to compromise, no matter where your adventures lead.

Portable sharpeners have remained essential from past blacksmiths to today’s outdoor enthusiasts. They empower you to confidently tackle any cutting task. This makes them a vital addition to your gear.

Viking Style Field Sharpeners

The Bear Forest Knives Whetstone and Leather Slip Strop is a premium sharpening system designed for precision honing. The whetstone is genuine Arkansas Novaculite, known for its exceptional hardness and fine grain. This makes it ideal for refining knife edges, heavy tools, and even surgical instruments. 

The Bear Forest Knives Whetstone and Leather Slip Strop is a premium sharpening system made from genuine Arkansas Novaculite, ideal for honing knife edges and tools.

The included JRE Industries Leather Slip protects the stone while doubling as a stropping surface with its smooth leather backing. Over time, the stone and leather develop a unique patina, showcasing their craftsmanship and durability. 

This duo honing system is perfect for maintaining razor-sharp edges with a combination of traditional stone sharpening and finishing stropping. It is a reliable tool for professionals and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With these field sharpeners, you ensure precision in your toolkit. Weight 2.4 ounces.

MSRP: $49.99

The JRE Industries Leather Slip serves a dual purpose: it safeguards the stone and provides a smooth leather surface for stropping.

Smith’s Pocket Pal

The Smith’s Pocket Pal offers a compact, versatile solution for quick and easy knife-edge maintenance. It features a two-stage sharpening system with preset carbide blades that quickly set the edge. Additionally, it has ceramic stones that deliver a smooth, polished finish. You can easily use the fold-out diamond-coated rod to sharpen serrations, gut hooks, and fish hooks.

Lightweight and portable, the Pocket Pal easily fits in your pocket or backpack and includes a lanyard hole for convenient attachment. Whether you’re in the kitchen, outdoors, or on the go, this field sharpener keeps your blades sharp and ready for action. Weight 0.8 ounces.

MSRP: $11.99

Field Sharpeners Abroad

On a six-week overseas trip in Asia, this little pocket Pal was my only sharpener for my Victorinox Waiter knife. I cut lots of night market food, packages, loose string, and several related mundane tasks! The diamond sharpener is like a spike. I counted on this as my self-defense option if needed. However, it was a non-threatening tool and companion, demonstrating the versatile nature of quality field sharpeners. 

Tuff Possum Gear/Sagewood Gear Pocket Strop

The Tuff Possum Gear/Sagewood Gear Pocket Strop is a portable sharpening tool designed to keep knives and tools in top condition while on the go.

The Tuff Possum Gear/Sagewood Gear Pocket Strop is a high-quality, portable sharpening tool. It’s designed for those who need to keep their knives and tools in top condition while on the go.

Crafted with durable materials, this pocket strop features a smooth leather surface. It hones and polishes blades to a razor-sharp edge. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in a pocket, bag, or toolkit, ensuring you have the means to maintain your cutting tools wherever you are.

The strop is designed for ease of use, often featuring a convenient handle or loop for a better grip during sharpening. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a tradesperson, or simply someone who values well-maintained tools, the Tuff Possum Gear/Sagewood Gear Pocket Strop is essential. It keeps your blades performing at their best.

With its functionality and portability, this strop is an ideal choice for anyone looking to ensure longevity and efficiency in their cutting instruments. It works particularly well with portable field sharpeners. Weight is 0.5 ounces.

MSRP: $22.00

Get one or all. Ensure you are never without a tool or incapable of sharpening your tools when on the go!

Five Weird Russian Guns

By
Travis Pike
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We’ve covered China and its weird guns, and I enjoyed writing the article, so I wanted to look at the other massive country in Eurasia, Russia. Russia has a long history of weird weapons. This includes dozens of bizarre prototype bullpup rifles that look like Cronenberg designed them. Picking a bunch of weird bullpups would be easy. So, instead of picking weird bullpup rifles, I went with weird Russian guns that have been fielded by military and police forces. I needed to challenge myself a bit.

Weird Russian Guns

The APS and SPP-1 – Weird Russian Guns Double Dose

I decided to do a two-for-one for the first entry of Weird Russian guns. When your weird task is to fire underwater, it’s not necessarily fun to take up two of five spots with underwater weapons. There seemed to be this idea in the 1970s that frogmen would be fighting all the time. They’d be having underwater firefights and duking it out.

This led to the creation of guns like the APS Underwater Assault Rifle and the SPP-1. Normal bullets just don’t work underwater. Instead, the rifle fired 5.66mm steel bolts from a 39mm case. The Russians will never abandon the 39mm case. The SPP fired 4.5mm steel bolts with a 40mmR case. This gun had four barrels, which allowed for four total shots to be fired.

These guns had a very limited range, but they were longer than rifles or spearguns. The APS offered 26 shots fired at a max range of 30 meters, but the range declined the deeper a frogman swam. The SPP-1 had a max range of 17 meters. The APS and SPP-1 were very niche weapons, and there isn’t any recorded use of the gun, or if there is, they aren’t telling us.

PSS Silent Pistol

How do we usually suppress a pistol? We strap a series of chambers held inside a tube to the front of the gun to trap and cool gas. Well, this is an article on weird Russian guns, so the Ruskies couldn’t do it normally. The PSS Silent Pistol was a micro-sized pistol that used a special 7.62x41mm cartridge known as the SP4.

The PSS Silent Pistol utilizes this odd cartridge that uses a self-contained charge that doesn’t launch the round, but rather launches a piston that propels the round. The round flies for an entire 25 meters, and the round’s moving at 660 feet per second. It’s super slow, and similar piston designs had been used in Vietnam’s silent revolvers.

How quiet could it be? I have no earthly idea. I wonder if a design like this would be NFA-free? How expensive would it be? Let’s get back on topic. The SPP was a semi-auto, magazine-fed gun that used a recoil-operated design. It’s neat and was fielded by special operations and secret police.

The NRS-2

Let’s bring a knife to a gunfight…again. Seriously, both China and Russia have knife guns fielded by their military forces? Well, if it’s good enough for China’s weird guns, it’s good enough for weird Russian guns. The NRS-2 is a combat knife that’s capable of firing a single shot of the SP-4 silenced round.

Oh, wait, it’s a 7.62x42mm SP4 cartridge instead of a 41mm round. That’s weird and inefficient. The NRS-2 can fire one round at 25 meters silently. Oh, at least it was a little more silent than normal, right? The NRS-2 has one barrel and seems to be a backup option to the blade, I guess?

The knife gun uses a simple mechanism with a removable bolt, a safety catch, and a weird trigger. It’s not a great system. It was apparently built for Spetsnaz forces and might still be used by them. Most sources say it’s still in service.

PP-90

I have a weird love of guns that fold into box-like shapes to avoid looking like guns. It’s another weird genre of firearms that transcends countries. When it comes to Weird Russian guns, the PP-90 might be the most normal, but it’s still bizarre. Any gun that folds and forms a weird, disguised rectangle is weird.

The PP-90 is a basic closed-bolt direct blowback gun. It fires from a magazine housed in the pistol grip and fires the 9mm Makarov round. Internally, it’s a standard submachine gun. It just happens to fold into a square that’s disguised and easy to hide. The PP-90 series uses a set of fold-up sights, which was neat for a 1990s gun.

Interestingly, the gun doesn’t seem to be designed to be disguised as much as it’s designed to be convenient to carry. It’s more akin to a PDW than a disguised SMG. It came with a belt holster for easy carry and a shoulder holster, which would absolutely rule.

ShAk-12

You hear the name ShAk, and you think Shaq, right? Well, they do have something in common. Shaq is a big guy, and the ShAk-12 fires a big round. The ShAk-12 is a bullpup rifle system designed for close-quarters fighting. The ShAk-12 fires a 12.7x55mm round, which is like .50 Beowulf. This series of weird Russian guns was designed for the FSB.

The idea is to have this big man-stopping round that would offer easy one-hit stops. The gun was designed to stop bad guys while attempting to stop collateral damage, which is the first time the Russians ever considered collateral damage. Predictably, the big, heavy rounds are subsonic, so they are easily suppressed, and that seems to be a standard accessory.

The ShAk-12 holds up to 20 rounds, and there is a duplex load option. The ShAk-12 also uses a short recoil system. That’s not odd for a handgun, but for a bullpup, it might be the first and only one I know of. I started this article by mentioning weird bullpups, and I got to finish on one.

Weird Russian Guns – What’s Left

These are five weird Russian guns that were issued or, at the very least, built for a Russian police or military force. If we just left this list open to weird Russian guns, we’d be here all damn day. What should we do next? I’m not sure if other countries do weird stuff, but trust me, I’ll be on the lookout for weird guns around the world.

Three Underutilized Natural Tinders

By
Reuben Bolieu
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Dry grass is an often-ignored, free, and reliable tinder option. It is one of nature's most effective secrets for starting fires.

These three free, underutilized natural tinders are easy to locate and identify. They span most of the United States, including the northern forests. I’ve seen them in Europe, Australia, and Russia. 

Natural Tinders

Optimal tinder sources include birch bark, poplar and cedar bark, cottonwood seedpods, and old man’s beard. These natural tinders will readily take a spark from a Ferro rod, and especially an open flame. They are at their best when bone dry and at their worst when wet, all but birch bark. Birch bark (river, yellow, and white) can take a spark when damp and burn amazingly well when wet. However, you’d need to use a lot of the ferro rod to heat the birch bark before it will combust. 

Reindeer Moss

Reindeer Moss is a type of lichen, not a true moss. This lichen flourishes in the cold environments of arctic and boreal forests. You can commonly find it in regions such as Scandinavia, Canada, Alaska, and the northern states of the U.S. Reindeer Moss grows in rocky, well-drained areas and often forms a carpet across the forest floor. This lichen may seem like the more obscure pick of the underutilized natural tinders. However, it’s an excellent option.

Harvest and Process this Natural Tinder

Reindeer Moss, classified as a lichen, is not a true moss. This lichen thrives in the cold climates of arctic and boreal forests.

To process reindeer moss for tinder, harvest dry, pale green or grayish clumps to avoid damp or overly fresh moss. Once collected, dry the moss by laying it out in the sun or near a fire to remove moisture. Next, break it down by crushing it into finer strands to increase its surface area, which aids in ignition.

When ready to start a fire, use char cloth, flint and steel, or a ferro rod to catch a spark. Reindeer moss burns hot and fast, making it an excellent choice for starter tinder. 

Pampas Grass

Pampas grass is a striking ornamental grass native to South America, specifically Argentina, Chile, and Brazil. This resilient plant thrives in wetland areas and has successfully spread globally, including California, Texas, and the southeastern United States. It fits right in there with the other underutilized natural tinders. 

Find It and Use It

To identify pampas grass, look for its impressive height, reaching up to 13 feet. The long, sharp-edged blades display a bluish-green hue. During late summer, you will notice its feathery plumes blooming in silvery-white, pink, or purple shades. Pampas grass grows in dense clumps, populating open fields, coastal dunes, and roadsides. When searching for this striking plant, focus on sunny, well-drained locations where tall, feathery plumes stand out. 

Pampas Grass ignites quickly and easily catches a spark from a ferro rod, making it an excellent natural tinder. Use the dry stems for extra kindling.

It takes almost zero processing. In its natural state, it’s ready to go. Unlike the other underutilized natural tinders, it will quickly take a spark from a ferro rod. Use the dry stems as secondary kindling. 

Dry Grass

Dry grass is the most overlooked tinder that’s free and foolproof. It stands out as one of nature’s best-kept secrets for igniting fires, yet people frequently overlook it in favor of processed char cloth or commercially made fire starters. Instead of spending money on these products, why not take advantage of the free tinder available right under your feet?

Dry grass excels at catching sparks and turning them into flames fast, making it a go-to material for survivalists, campers, and bushcrafters. Unlike some tinders that require special treatment, dry grass takes almost no processing—just gather, fluff, and ignite. The finer the strands, the easier they’ll catch a spark from a ferro rod or direct flame.  

Lightweight, plentiful, and natural—it’s time to give dry grass the respect it deserves in your fire-making kit.  

Harvesting This Underutilized Natural Tinder

The easiest way to harvest this resource is to run your hand with fingers slightly spread out and lightly grasp dead, dry grass sections. The loose stuff will burn best and naturally be easier to remove. Trim off the green or damp sections found at the bottom. Make small nests that you can easily turn over once ignited and burned. 

Underutilized Natural Tinders Conclusion

The next time you’re out in the wilderness, take a ziplock bag and load up on these three free, underutilized natural tinders. Test them out and see how they work for you. Your life may depend on it!

Knife Maintenance Made Easy – Wicked Industries to the Rescue

By
Jim Cobb
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Wicked Industries logo

Sharpening your knives might be the most common maintenance chore, but it isn’t the only one. You have to be able to properly clean and protect the blades, and that’s where Wicked Industries comes into play.

Who is Wicked Industries?

Like so many entrepreneurs, the whole thing started by not being able to find the product he wanted. Fred DiPrete, owner of DiPrete Forge, offers classes to teach people how to make knives. One of the most common questions he has received from students was what he recommended for protecting the steel from corrosion, and such. DiPrete began hunting around for something that would be suitable, but kept coming up empty.

Finally, he began experimenting with different concoctions and tweaking the recipes until he settled on exactly what he was after. Thus, Wicked Wax was born. It’s 100% food safe, goes on smooth, and doesn’t become sticky or gummy over time. Plus, he is able to produce it at an affordable price.

Wicked Industries began in 2022. In the years since, they’ve added a few more products to the lineup. DiPrete is from New Jersey, where wicked is a term used to mean excellent or perfect.

Wicked Wax

Wicked Wax, like all of the Wicked Industries products, comes in handy screw top tins.

While it was originally intended for knife blades, Wicked Wax can be used on all parts of the knife, including the handle and sheath. It’s safe for wood, plastic, epoxy, leather, and steel. It contains all-natural ingredients and no chemicals. It’s food safe, which makes it a great product for knives, as you don’t need to worry about cleaning the blade before engaging in food prep.

The basic idea is to reduce the risk of corrosion to your blade. Let’s face it, many of us don’t clean or maintain our knives as well as we should, especially in challenging environments. We put it off, sometimes until it’s too late and the damage is done. Applying a coating like Wicked Wax will help keep your blade in good condition.

Wicked Clean

Clean your blades well before you apply protectant. Photo credit: DLT Trading.

When it comes time to clean and polish your knife blade, Wicked Clean is an excellent choice. It has a mild abrasive to remove debris and oxidation. It will even work on some mild etchings. Like Wicked Wax, Wicked Clean has all-natural ingredients. It won’t harm the existing finish of the knife, either. It’s safe for use on steel, silver, brass, or other metals.

Wicked Rescue

Keep your hands, lips, elbows, and more feeling great. Photo credit: DLT Trading.

This is used to help heal your skin, such as hands, elbows, feet, and lips. Wicked Rescue contains no parabens, petroleum, mineral oil, or preservatives. Just all natural ingredients like Manuka Honey and Shea Butter. It will soothe and protect your skin as it encourages healing. It moisturizes and helps reduce dry skin.

Wicked Wix

Wicked Industries has a few different scented candles. Photo credit: DLT Trading.

Wicked Industries also produces a small line of Wicked Wix candles with various scents like Bourbon Butterscotch and Coffee Shop. Each candle is made from beeswax, soy wax, and non-toxic fragrances. They burn slower than paraffin candles and are a great alternative for those who suffer from allergies or asthma, as the wax burns cleaner.

Father’s Day Gift Picks: Tactical & Outdoor Dads!

By
Reuben Bolieu
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Introducing the newest member of 5.11’s Allhaula™ Collection: the Allhaula™ 30-Can Cooler. This cooler is crafted for times when you want to truly relax and refresh, outperforming standard soft-sided coolers.

Here are four awesome Father’s Day gift picks specially chosen for dads who love tactics and the great outdoors! The special day to celebrate dads is approaching, so get in gear! 

Get Ready for Father’s Day with These Gift Picks

Tactical Father’s Day Pick: 5.11

Make a statement in the sand with the latest addition to 5.11’s Allhaula™ Collection of rugged gear bags. The Allhaula™ 30-Can Cooler is designed for moments focusing on true refreshment and relaxation, outpacing lesser soft-sided coolers. With a spacious 1,092-cubic-inch capacity, this cooler boasts waterproof, reinforced RF welded seams and a waterproof zipper.

Using the laser-cut MOLLE panels, you can easily attach accessories like the Allhaula™ Insulated Dry Pouch. Plus, the compression-molded bottom ensures maximum durability. This cooler stands out as a top choice for serious outdoor enthusiasts.

MSRP: $131.25

Quick Look:

  • Holds up to 30 cans
  • [+]Compression molded bottom with mirrored logo so imprints in sand
  • Waterproof, reinforced RF welded seams
  • Waterproof zipper
  • Loop panel for patches
  • Laser-cut MOLLE panels on three sides
  • Side grab handles, padded shoulder strap
  • 840D nylon shell with 420D nylon liner

Outdoors Father’s Day Gift

For outdoor dads, PNWBUSHCRAFT offers durable waxed canvas and leather gear for the Pacific Northwest, including bags and foraging pouches, all crafted with care in the USA. Their Cedar Bucket Bag is a handcrafted Waxed Canvas Bucket Bag with outside pockets.

PNWBUSHCRAFT designed it to keep your cooking pot separate from soot while shielding it from moisture. Initially crafted for storing cookware sets, this bag now features four external pockets perfect for holding utensils, spices, matches, and other essentials. 

The Waxed Canvas Cedar Bucket Bag features exterior pockets and keeps your cookware clean and dry. Four outer pockets make it easy to store your essentials.

The bag measures approximately 6.25 inches wide and 9.75 inches deep and is available in brown, green, or tan. It closes securely with paracord and a toggle, and each external pocket measures around 5 inches wide and 5 inches deep. We reinforced the seams with rivets to ensure that your items stay put. The bag is constructed from durable 10.1-oz waxed canvas and showcases a hand-branded leather tag.

This stylish bag goes beyond just holding a cookpot. It’s an excellent option for carrying food, clothing, miscellaneous items, or foraging supplies. It also makes a reliable all-weather bear bag you can hang out of reach.

MSRP: $59.00

Hunting & Outdoors Pick

Introducing the Knives By Nuge (KBN) Bruin, designed out of necessity while hunting. KBN initially created the Bruin with a saber grind, but trusted outdoor professionals suggested a scandi grind for enhanced versatility. As a result, KBN now offers both options. Choose the saber grind for dedicated hunting or the scandi version for an all-purpose field knife.

The Bruin by Knives By Nuge offers tough steel options like AEB-L, Nitro-V, and CPM-3V, perfect for outdoor use. Each knife comes with a comfortable ambidextrous kydex pocket sheath and is proudly made in the USA.

The Bruin is available in tough steel options like AEB-L, Nitro-V, and CPM-3V, making it ideal for outdoor use. Each model comes with an ambidextrous Kydex pocket sheath that fits comfortably. The Bruin proudly originates from the USA.

MSRP: $335.00

Author’s Father’s Day Pick

Knowledge is essential. Jim Cobb’s “Prepper’s Long-Term Survival Guide” is a thorough manual for individuals preparing for prolonged disasters rather than short-term emergencies.

The Prepper’s Long-Term Survival Guide distinguishes itself from typical prepping books by focusing on long-term survival strategies. It explores crucial areas such as food storage, shelter, security, off-grid power, and self-sufficient living. It covers essential topics like:

Jim Cobb’s “Prepper’s Long-Term Survival Guide” is a comprehensive manual for individuals gearing up for extended disasters rather than just short-term emergencies.

Beyond Short-Term Survival – The book emphasizes surviving weeks, months, or even years after a catastrophe, addressing challenges like grid failures, pandemics, and economic collapse.

Water & Food Storage – Cobb provides practical methods for purifying water and building emergency food supplies without electricity.

Security & Defense – Strategies for protecting your home and family in a post-collapse world, including fortifications and self-defense techniques.

Off-the-Grid Power – Tips on solar panels, alternative energy sources, and DIY power solutions to maintain essential functions without modern infrastructure.

Real-World Lessons—Each chapter begins with a fictional journal entry, immersing readers in survival scenarios before offering practical advice.

Overall, “The Prepper’s Long-Term Survival Guide” serves as a vital handbook for anyone looking to enhance their preparedness for unforeseen events. It blends practical advice with an encouraging strategy for long-term survival. Don’t let Dad be unprepared this Father’s Day!

MSRP: $19.95

The Polish P-64: A Cold War Classic

By
Jim Maybrick
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polish p64 pistol

Surplus handguns represent a cost-effective option, whether you are looking for a concealed carry handgun, a new shooting iron, or something a little different. For a few decades after the Cold War, Warsaw Pact handguns were a going option. The most common options are the Soviet TT-33 and the various flavors of Makarov pistol. The more discerning shooter might even pick a Czech P-82. But the pistol best set up for concealed carry is, far and away, the Polish P-64. Here is what you need to know about the P-64.

polish people's army cold war with light machine guns and ak rifles
The Polish People’s Army stuck with Soviet-designed long guns for much of the Cold War. The P-64 and P-83 pistols, however, are an interesting homegrown divergence.

The Polish P-64

The Origins of the P-64

Poland is unfortunately positioned geographically between East and West. That is reflected in their culture, policy prescriptions, and even their small arms. The Polish VIS pistol is arguably one of the best handguns of World War II despite its odd mix of Western and Soviet features. That trend continued when Poland fell behind the Iron Curtain after the war. The Soviets installed a regime in their image and armed this new state of Poland with Soviet weapons.

Communist Poland initially fielded the Soviet TT-33 semi-automatic pistol, but when the time came to standardize on the new Soviet 9×18 Makarov cartridge, the Russian-built Makarov pistol simply would not do. Poland sought a homegrown solution. In a land of internationalism, the Poles stayed true to their nation with the P-64 pistol.

polish p64 pistol right side
The Polish Radom P-64.

Features

The Polish P-64 was made between 1964 and 1977 by Radom for both the police and the Polish People’s Army. The version made for police is chambered in the .380 ACP, with the military model chambered in the Soviet 9x18mm Makarov cartridge. Aside from having to use the Soviet round, the P-64 is a peculiar knock-off of a famous Western design—the Walther PPK.

The Radom P-64 is a hammer-fired handgun that falls in the class of double-action/single-action handguns. Like the PPK, the P-64 can be carried fully loaded with the hammer down and fired with a long press of the trigger. Subsequent shots are fired with a lighter trigger pull, as the hammer is automatically re-cocked by the slide.

To render the pistol safe, the de-cocker on the left side of the slide is depressed. This drops the hammer and deactivates the trigger. Pushing the de-cocker forward resets the trigger, allowing you to fire again from double-action mode.

polish p-64 controls
The P-64 has similar controls to the PPK. The decocker is in a familiar place, as is the loaded chamber indicator above the hammer. The hammer itself is recessed, making the pistol easy to draw without snagging.

Another borrowed feature includes the P-64’s straight blowback design. It features a fixed barrel that retains a stout recoil spring and slide. The weight of the slide and spring is enough to keep the pistol closed until the bullet leaves the barrel. This factors into the use of the 9x18mm round, which was developed to be the most powerful cartridge one could use in an inexpensive blowback design.

p 64 magazine change
The heel magazine release in action.

Ergonomics

Ergonomically, the P-64 is a grab bag of East and West. It features a small dovetailed rear sight and an equally dainty front sight separated by a milled plane to keep sun glare down. Like the PPK, there is no slide release. Instead, the pistol locks open on an empty magazine, and the pistol is reloaded by inserting a loaded magazine and racking the slide to release it. The familiar magazine release button is not seen on the P-64. Instead, a European-style heel release as seen on the Mak is used.

polish p-64 disassembly
The P-64 even takes down like a PPK. Pull down on the trigger guard and turn it to the left or right. This allows you to draw the slide back and up over the barrel.

The P-64 is a dense all-steel handgun with a subdued blued finish and checkered plastic grips. Despite its weight, it is surprisingly compact. It sports a 3.3-inch barrel and an abbreviated grip that only accommodates a six-round single-stack magazine. That made it excellent for staff officers who seldom needed to shoot their guns seriously. But it was a hindrance to troops in the field who wanted a larger handgun with more rounds.

Service Life

The Radom P-64 served the Polish Army from 1964 until 1983. In that time, Radom prototyped two higher capacity replacements in the P-70 and P-78 pistols, but neither got off the ground. Production of the P-64 ceased in 1977, and the pistol was finally replaced by the P-83. The P-83 is a larger handgun with an eight-round magazine capacity and an enlarged hammer that makes it easy to pick out from the P-64.

Both the P-64 and P-83 have slowly been phased out of service in the 2000s, with many showing up in the Middle East. But the lion’s share was ultimately surplus to the consumer market in the United States. Exact numbers of the P-64’s production run are not known, but are estimated to be about 200,000 units.

Availability and Ammunition

For a time, the P-64 had a reputation as an excellent carry pistol for the money. As with all things surplus, P-64s flooded into the country at cheap prices, but once imports dried up, prices steadily increased as those who had them did not want to part with them.

9mm makarov ammo
The 9mm Makarov cartridge [left] is shorter and uses a wider .361 inch diameter bullet. It packs less punch than 9mm Luger [right], but is superior to .380 ACP.

The same compact size that doomed it as a service pistol turned out to be its greatest asset relative to other inexpensive handguns on the carry market in the 2000s. Demand for pistols like the P-64 and Makarov PM was such that 9mm Makarov ammunition is manufactured in an ever-expanding variety. The ammunition ranges from traditional steel-cased FMJ to brass-cased FMJ and even defensive loads from manufacturers like Hornady, Underwood, and Buffalo Bore.

The Polish P-64 as a Shooter

Although prices have risen, relative to the market, the P-64, as an older handgun in an oddball cartridge, can still be had. My particular P-64 was made in 1970 and worn hard on the right side, but it is mechanically perfect.

Recoil and handling can be subjective. What is unwieldy for one is workable for another. In the case of the P-64, the size is just large enough to master the 9mm Makarov cartridge in a blowback option. Recoil is sharp as all recoil energy is projected onto the metal backstrap and not soaked up like a locked breech pistol. But the 9mm Mak round is not too powerful. It is easy to get through a few magazines, but the web of the hand gets a bit sore after a box of fifty.

Recoil is somewhat exaggerated thanks to the short grip. The magazine comes with a pinky extension, but it is difficult to get a full firing grip, and the slide takes up more real estate over the frame, so there is less room for the support hand like a modern handgun.

To make matters more interesting, the double-action trigger pull is perhaps the toughest I have felt. It has a pull weight of about twenty pounds. The single-action pull has a little play but is deceptively light, as there is no tactile feedback from the trigger to know where you are in the trigger press.

That single-action press combined with the small sights makes for a surprisingly accurate combination when shooting at targets. At ten yards, it is not difficult to get hand-sized groups. At thirty-five yards, I could hit eight-inch steel plates and 1/2 D28 torsos without fail.

Aftermarket Options

For all its faults, the fixed-barreled P-64 is a real shooter, and for those looking to improve the shooting experience, there are options. Wolff offers spring sets that can lessen the trigger pull weight and mitigate recoil. Holster options vary from old surplus flap holsters to modern IWB Kydex options from Vedder and traditional leather options from Azula. Magazines and extra parts are purely surplus, so it is best to grab a few parts while you can if you are looking to press your P-64 into long-term service.

The Bottom Line

We are spoiled for concealed carry options, but the lower the price threshold, the more questionable the quality. Although age and parts availability count against the Polish P-64, it remains a solid option for those who are looking for a compact pistol but need something more substantial than the latest polymer .380. It also holds the distinction of being among the smallest handguns ever to pass military muster. With good ammunition and, perhaps, a change of springs, the P-64 remains ready to serve.

Memorial Day: Military Blades Still In Service

By
Reuben Bolieu
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The Navy Seal 2000 is a tough tactical knife, while the SOG Seal Pup is a smaller, versatile option for outdoor and military tasks.

This article highlights three classic military blades that are still popular today. Outdoor enthusiasts, survival buffs, and active military personnel honor yesterday’s war heroes using these iconic tools!

Military Blades That Stood the Test of Time

Featuring blades specifically for military use, these tools play a crucial role in the armed forces. They serve as key tools for both combat and survival. These blades withstand the challenging demands of military operations. This makes them ideal for close-quarters fighting and practical uses in the field.

Different types of blades, like combat knives, bayonets, and tactical tools, are designed for durability and effectiveness. They cater to the varied needs of soldiers in different environments. Let’s examine some notable military blades. We will discuss what makes each one unique. We will also probe how they’ve evolved to support the men and women in uniform.

The M9 bayonet, produced by companies like Buck Knives, features a 7-inch stainless steel blade that’s highly resistant to corrosion and built to last.

Seal Military Blades

The SOG Navy Seal 2000 Knife was crafted specifically for the elite U.S. Navy SEAL forces. This knife can handle harsh conditions and performs excellently in combat and survival. It measures 12 inches overall and has a 7-inch blade that’s a solid 0.25 inches thick. Made from AUS-8 stainless steel and finished with a hard-cased black TiNi coating, it resists corrosion and stays sharp longer.

The Navy Seal 2000 delivers strength and reliability with a fixed blade design. This type of military blade, equipped with a Zytel handle, ensures a secure grip no matter the conditions. Its toughness and effectiveness make it a top pick for tactical challenges and survival use.

Seal Pup

The SOG Seal Pup knife is a compact and versatile choice designed for military personnel. It’s perfect for combat and everyday outdoor tasks. It measures 9.5 inches overall, with a 4.75-inch blade and a 0.19-inch thickness. Made from AUS-8 stainless steel it features a durable black TiNi finish.

The glass-reinforced nylon handle ensures a secure grip, even in wet conditions. Lightweight and easy to carry, the Seal Pup appeals to soldiers, outdoor enthusiasts, and survivalists alike. Among the military tools, Seal Pup and Navy Seal 2000 are known for their ruggedness and reliability. This makes them ideal for military and survival operations.

KA-BAR Military Blades

The KA-BAR 7-inch blade USMC Combat Knife has earned its reputation as a legendary military tool. Trusted by the United States Marine Corps since World War II, this knife symbolizes the courage and tenacity of Marines. It’s built to tackle both combat and survival scenarios effectively.

Crafted from 1095 high-carbon steel, the blade delivers impressive durability. It keeps its edge sharp, making it ideal for the demands of military life. A 7-inch blade length strikes an outstanding balance between durability and combat readiness. It’s useful whether you’re engaged in hand-to-hand combat or handling everyday tasks out in the field.

The United States Marine Corps has relied on the KA-BAR 7-inch blade Combat Knife since World War II. It’s become a go-to tool for Marines over the years.

One of the KA-BAR’s best features is its leather-stacked handle, which ensures a comfortable and reliable grip even when wet. The knife also includes a guard that prevents your hand from slipping during use, boosting safety in high-pressure situations. Plus, the sturdy leather sheath not only protects the blade but also adds a classic touch to its rugged look.

Even today, Marines and outdoor enthusiasts love the KA-BAR USMC Combat Knife. Its rich history, solid performance, and practical design make it a dependable military blade. It is ideal for those ready to face challenges head-on. Whether you find yourself on the battlefield or enjoying outdoor adventures, the KA-BAR captures the spirit of resilience and adaptability.

Ontario Pilot Survival Knife

The Ontario Knife Company’s Pilot Survival Knife packs a punch in a compact size. Known for its quality and durability, Ontario Knife Company crafted this iconic knife with aircrews in mind. This makes it a hit among pilots and outdoor fans.

Check out the Ontario Knife Company’s Pilot Survival Knife—this compact beast is all set to tackle your next adventure!

The knife features 1095 high-carbon steel, which gives it impressive edge retention and strength. Its leather-stacked handle feels comfortable and secure, even when wet. With a guard to prevent slips, this design enhances safety during use. Thanks to its compact and lightweight design, you can easily carry it clipped to a flight suit or tucked away in your backpack. Whether you’re camping, fishing, or tackling everyday tasks, this knife’s versatility shines through.

Although the Pilot Survival Knife might not carry the same legendary name as the KA-BAR, it certainly stands its ground. It remains a reliable and capable tool time after time.

Spring Grilling: Cooking Up the Campfire Fare

By
Reuben Bolieu
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Spring Grilling at its finest down south in Georgia! A variety of colors and tastes make for the best grilling.

The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and backyard and Spring grilling is officially back on the menu. Whether you’re firing up the grill at home, packing a picnic for the park, or enjoying a campfire under the stars, there’s something magical about cooking outdoors. 

It’s That Time of the Year for Spring Grilling

Let’s Cook!

Get out those tongs because it’s that glorious time of year again! The sun’s finally got some pep in its step, the days are stretching out like a cat in a sunbeam, and that primal urge to cook something delicious over an open flame is bubbling up.

Spring grilling isn’t just about food. It’s about shaking off the winter blues and returning outdoors. That smoky aroma drifting through the air? That’s the smell of freedom, my friends, seasoned with anticipation.

Backyard, Picnic, and Camp Grilling

Portobello Buns on these burgers for less carbs and more umami flavor!

The trusty backyard setup is a classic for a reason – easy access to the fridge and maybe even a comfy chair. You’ve got your weapon of choice there, be it a trusty charcoal kettle, a fancy gas grill with more knobs than a spaceship, or even one of those high-tech pellet smokers that practically cook dinner for you.

But don’t limit yourself! Spring begs for picnics in the park, where a portable grill becomes your trusty sidekick. Just remember the charcoal and maybe a friendly squirrel won’t try to steal your hot dogs. And for the truly adventurous, camping takes grilling back to its roots—the crackling campfire, a sturdy grill grate, and the satisfaction of cooking surrounded by nature.

Bonus points if you channel your inner pioneer and try cooking on a flat rock (just make sure it’s clean, folks!).

Fire and Coals

Let’s talk fire, the soul of any good Spring grilling session. You’ve got your fuel options, each with its own personality. Charcoal briquettes are the reliable workhorses, while lump charcoal brings that wild, unpredictable heat. Wood chunks or chips add a smoky kiss to your food, turning a simple burger into a flavor explosion.

Gas grills? They’re the instant gratification gurus. They offer precise temperature control for the impatient Spring griller. And pellet grills? They’re the sophisticated cousins, delivering consistent heat and that coveted wood-fired taste with minimal fuss.

Getting that fire right is key. Whether coaxing coals to that perfect ashy glow or dialing in the degrees on your gas beast, mastering the heat is your path to Spring grilling glory. 

It’s hard to beat corn on the cob while charred in the husks.

Pro tip: create different heat zones—one hot for searing, one cooler for gentle cooking—like a culinary chess master.

What tools Do You Need for Spring Grilling?

Alright, gearheads, let’s talk toys! First, safety—nobody wants a trip to the emergency room instead of a delicious dinner. Grab some sturdy grill gloves or mitts; those grates get hotter than a summer sidewalk in July. Long-handled tongs and spatulas are your trusty extensions, keeping you at a safe distance while you flip like a pro. And a good grill brush? Essential for scrubbing away the sins of grilling past.

Beyond the basics, a basting brush lets you slather on those flavor-packed sauces, and a meat thermometer is your best friend in the fight against dry chicken. Spring grilling can be rough! Skewers turn anything into a fun, handheld feast, and a grill basket keeps those delicate veggies from falling into the fiery abyss.

Don’t forget the prep squad: a solid cutting board, a sharp knife, and something to marinate your masterpieces in.

Kebabs serve as a delightful canvas for your culinary creativity. Pile them high with vibrant vegetables and tender pieces of meat for a tasty treat.

What to Cook While Spring Grilling

Finally, the main event: what gloriousness are we throwing on those hot grates?

You can’t go wrong with burgers and hot dogs, which are always crowd-pleasers, the reliable MVPs of any grill session. But spring begs for more! Think juicy steaks sizzling to perfection, chicken infused with zesty marinades, and flaky fish that practically melts in your mouth. Skewers (kabobs) are your canvas. Load ’em up with colorful veggies and succulent chunks of meat.

The flames slightly char your Asparagus, and sweet corn and bell peppers burst with smoky sweetness. Even fruit gets a place on the grill. Try peaches or pineapple for a surprisingly delicious dessert. Get creative! Try grilled pizza. And for those lazy evenings? Foil packet meals are your cleanup superheroes—just toss ’em on the coals and let the magic happen.

Spring grilling is your culinary playground, so fire up that grill and get playing!

Battle For Young Adults’ 2A Rights Active On Two Fronts

By
Mark Chesnut
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The Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms is the only portion of the Bill of Rights that some politicians want to limit to only those 21 years of age and older. And two pro-rights organizations are currently battling for young adults court.

The Battle for Young Adults 2A Rights

At the same time, the Second Amendment Foundation is suing Connecticut over its law banning handgun ownership by adults under 21, the National Rifle Association is asking the U.S. Supreme Court to hear its case challenging Florida’s law that doesn’t allow 18-, 19-, and 20-year-olds to purchase rifles and shotguns.

Connecticut In The Crosshairs

On May 18, Succow v. Bondi argued that age-based gun bans violate the Second Amendment rights of lawful adults who are under 21 years of age. The Connecticut Citizens Defense League (CCDL) and two individuals, Samuel Towne and Zachary Succow, are also plaintiffs in the action.

The complaint argues that states can’t simply deprive 18-, 19-, and 20-year-old citizens of one constitutionally protected right while recognizing them as adults as far as other rights are concerned.

“The Heller Court has explicitly recognized the handgun as ‘the quintessential self-defense weapon’ in the United States, and that a complete prohibition on their carry and use is necessarily invalid,” the complaint explains.

“But Defendants’ laws … and the related regulations, policies, practices, customs designed to implement the same, and Defendants’ continuing enforcement of them, prevent law-abiding, responsible adult citizens under age twenty-one— including Plaintiffs Succow and Towne, and the similarly situated members of Connecticut Citizens Defense League and the Second Amendment Foundation—from doing so, in violation of the Second and Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution.”

Ultimately, Defendants are asking the court to make a declaratory judgment that the provisions of the law are unconstitutional on their face and, as applied to the plaintiffs, to issue a permanent injunction enjoining all law enforcement in the state from enforcing provisions of the law.

NRA & SCOTUS

Concerning the NRA lawsuit, the organization has asked the U.S. Supreme Court to take up a challenge to Florida’s restrictive law banning the sale of rifles and shotguns to adults under 21.

As the NRA pointed out in a recent news alert, Florida has completely banned 18- to 20-year-olds from purchasing a firearm of any kind for any purpose for seven years—a direct violation of Second Amendment rights.

As the petition explains, because of a split on the matter at the circuit court level, SCOTUS needs to hear this case to resolve that split.

“The federal courts of appeals are intractably divided over the constitutionality of laws that restrict the ability of 18-to-20-year-olds to acquire or carry firearms,” the petition says.

“Most immediately, while the Eleventh Circuit … upheld Florida’s ban on adults in this age group purchasing any firearm from any source, and a panel of the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals recently upheld a similar Colorado age ban, a panel of the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals recently found unconstitutional the federal ban on 18-to-20-year-olds purchasing handguns from licensed dealers, in a decision that is directly and unequivocally in conflict with this one—and that the court below recognized and deliberately departed from.”

Neck Knives For Self-Defense or Camp

By
Reuben Bolieu
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The Becker Necker is 6.75 inches long and has a 3.25-inch drop-point blade, ideal for precise cutting. It’s lightweight thanks to its skeletonized handle, and you can easily customize it with paracord or aftermarket scales.

Neck knives are small, lightweight blades that can be easily worn around the neck, making them super accessible. Outdoor lovers, hikers, and campers like these knives because they’re easy to carry and use for various tasks!

Neck Knives: They’re Better Than a Neck Tie

Why Neck Knives?

These small, lightweight knives can easily be worn around the neck for quick access. You can use them for various tasks, including cutting rope, opening packages, preparing food, and even emergency self-defense. Military personnel and law enforcement officers highly favor these knives because they require a dependable and easily accessible blade.

Neck knives provide versatility and practicality for anyone who spends time outdoors or needs a reliable blade for work and play.

Necker Pros:

  • Ease of access: Neck knives, hanging ready around your neck, offer quick accessibility in emergencies, allowing for rapid deployment for self-defense or other uses.  
  • Concealed carry: Like firearms, they hide easily under clothing for discreet carry, giving you an advantage in dangerous situations.  
  • Small size: Their compact and lightweight design makes them comfortable to wear without adding much bulk or weight.  
  • Strength: Fixed blades are more durable than folding knives, with no moving parts that can break, providing better resilience under pressure.  
  • Extra knife: Neck knives serve as a versatile backup during outdoor activities if your primary knife is lost or damaged.  
  • Practicality: They are convenient when a waist-borne knife is unsuitable, such as when wearing a backpack or in tight spaces.  
Neck knives are quickly accessible in emergencies, allowing for rapid deployment for self-defense or other uses.

Becker Necker

The KA-BAR Becker Necker (BK11), designed by Ethan Becker, offers reliability as a neck knife and showcases durability and versatility. This compact fixed-blade knife features tough 1095 Cro-Van steel, making it perfect for survivalists, hunters, and everyday carry fans who need a blade that withstands pressure.

Measuring 6.75 inches overall with a 3.25-inch drop-point blade, the Becker Necker is all about precision cutting and rugged performance. Its skeletonized handle keeps it lightweight, plus you can easily customize it with paracord or aftermarket scales. The flat grind gives you a sharp, dependable edge for slicing, carving, and everyday tasks.

The KA-BAR Becker Necker (BK11) features a lightweight skeletonized handle that can be customized, and includes a bottle opener on the butt for easy access to beverages.

The Becker Necker has a MOLLE-compatible polymer sheath and features an adjustable locking tab for easy carry. The TDI Metal Belt Clip lets you attach it to your belt, boot, or tactical vest for quick access. Wear it around your neck or mount it for easy reach. KA-BAR made this knife for convenience and top-notch performance.

Ethan Becker’s design philosophy emphasizes creating industrial-strength knives that “work for a living,” which the Becker Necker fully reflects. Compact, rugged, and ready for action, it’s the perfect neck knife tool for those who demand reliability in the wild.

The KA-BAR Becker Necker (BK11) is a trusty neck knife created by Ethan Becker. It’s famous for being tough and versatile.

Knives By Nuge

KBN is an exciting player in the knife-making scene. Their blades feature top-notch stainless steel and high-carbon steel. This combination provides a sharp edge that withstands everyday use and performs like a champ when needed. Plus, their designs come with ergonomic handles that ensure a comfortable, non-slip grip for safe handling.

If you’re looking for a practical, durable, dapper neck knife option, check out Knives By Nuge. The maker is passionate about his craft—he’s been using the same coffee mug for eight years! And he’s damn proud of it. Nuge personally designs the blades and handles. Each knife undergoes testing in real-world conditions to ensure top performance and striking good looks.

Remember Wicket?

The Wicket from Knives by Nuge cutting through rope using a chest-lever grip.

Only the coolest Ewok in the Star Wars universe—Wicket! The Wicket knife stands out for its compact size and impressive performance. A lot of fans rave about how reliable and convenient it is. With a thickness of .096 inches and a blade that measures 2.25 inches, it’s sturdy, practical, and super sharp. At 5 inches long overall, it fits comfortably in your hand.

You can choose between 80CRV2 High Carbon or Nitro-V steel for the blade, depending on what you get. Plus, it comes with a kydex sheath that protects you and the blade and makes it easy to access. If you’re slicing rope, preparing camp snacks, carving wood, or even fending off stormtroopers, the Wicket neck knife is the ideal tool for the job!

Neck Knives Summary

Neck knives are like your stylish sidekick—compact, lightweight blades that hang around your neck, ready for action in emergencies. Need to cut rope, open a package, or fend off an unexpected villain? These little heroes have your back. A neck knife is a practical backup and a fun conversation starter, perfect for outdoor adventures or everyday tasks!

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