Three essential fire-starting tools: matches, lighters, vs. ferro rods. Which would you choose?
Let’s compare three essential fire-starting tools: matches & lighters, vs. ferro rods. We’ll explore how each works and highlight its pros and cons. Let’s dive in! Each fire-starting technique has its unique flair and distinct pros and cons that can shape your experience based on the situation.
Matches & Lighters vs. Ferro Rod: Which Method Wins?
Several years ago, I read many wilderness skills, camping, and survival guides, mostly mentioning matches. Flint and steel were also the go-to method for firemaking. However, Carl Auer von Welsbach invented the ferrocerium (ferro) rod in 1903, but it didn’t replace matches for many old-timers.
The lighter dates back to 1823, yet it wasn’t as handy as the ones from 1932 made by Zippo. Currently, several companies are producing various lighters. However, the ferro rod has gained popularity and is a preferred firemaking item for survival kits and campers.
A matchstick can ignite tinder and kindling like this damp poplar bark that isn’t processed.
Matches
There is something very woodsy and nostalgic about lighting a campfire or lantern with a wooden match. Matches are reliable but weather-sensitive, and match cases are a simple remedy for the fickle matchstick. A match is an instant flame and can ignite tinder and kindling, unlike a ferro rod. Often, thin twigs, which are kindling, can be ignited easily with a single match. Each matchstick is a fire, and you can fit a lot of matches in a match case!
Pros:
Super easy to use—just strike and ignite.
Lightweight and portable, ideal for emergency kits.
Inexpensive and widely available.
Cons:
Can be affected by moisture; once wet, they’re useless unless waterproof.
Limited supply—once you run out, you’re done.
Wind can easily extinguish them.
Lighters
A lighter offers a flame now, which makes it’s convenient for firemaking, but it also carries risks. There’s no telling when the lighter will run out of fuel, and it has many moving parts. A lighter is ideal for lighting candles, lanterns, or stoves indoors.
Let’s not forget plasma lighters, which are entirely different. However, like lighters need fuel, plasma alternatives need a power source. Like matches, a lighter can ignite kindling. But you will want to back up a lighter with another ignition source for safety.
Small twigs (kindling) can ignite with a flame from a lighter.
Pros:
Reliable and reusable—hundreds or even thousands of lights per lighter.
Wind-resistant, especially butane torches.
Works in various conditions (except extreme cold for butane lighters).
Cons:
Requires fuel—when it’s out, it’s dead weight.
Can malfunction (flint issues, broken casing, etc.).
Not ideal for long-term survival situations without a fuel source.
Ferro Rod
A ferro rod needs thin tinder like fatwood, seen here, to ignite and produce a flame.
Ferro (ferrocerium) rods are durable and practical but require skill. In the matches/lighters vs. ferro rods scenario, two are instant flame. A ferro rod requires tinder as the first step in firemaking. To produce a flame, you must ignite thin, fluffy, dry materials such as cottonwood, poplar, cedar bark, or manufactured tinder. Then, you can ignite kindling and work up to small fuel.
While this method may not be as convenient, it wins in durability and the number of fires you can create.
Pros:
Extremely durable—thousands of strikes available.
Works in wet conditions; even underwater, it can still spark.
Excellent for survival and bushcraft since it doesn’t rely on fuel.
Cons:
Requires skill—need to know how to use it properly.
Produces sparks but not an instant flame, so you must prepare tinder well.
Not as fast or convenient as matches or lighters for casual use.
Matches, Lighters vs. Ferro Rod Conclusion
Matches are great for quick, everyday use, but have a short lifespan. Lighters offer convenience, but can run out of fuel. Ferro rods are the ultimate survival tool, but require preparation and technique.
If you’re heading out on an adventure, carrying a combination is smart. Which do you tend to rely on most?
I understand the challenge of finding holsters for firearms like the Beretta 81. Who, after all, is buying an old Cheetah and intending to carry it in 2025? As it turns out, I am. I struggled to find a suitable holster until I discovered Falco Holsters and their Hamilton A635 model. Falco offers a vast selection of holsters for both new and old firearms, combining a classic look and feel with modern features.
You might wonder why I’d choose to carry a Beretta 81 in 2025, especially with so many excellent modern firearms available. Contemporary options like the P365, Hellcat, and CC9, along with other optics-ready micro 9mms, are incredibly popular. The Beretta 81, by contrast, is a truly vintage firearm. It’s an all-metal, iron-sight-only, DA/SA, hammer-fired gun chambered in .32 ACP—a caliber most wouldn’t consider for self-defense today.
Despite its age, the Beretta 81 is one of my all-time favorite guns. It’s a double-stack, DA/SA, .32 ACP pistol in the classic Beretta design. It looks great, shoots well, and is genuinely fun to use. While it might not make a lot of sense to some, it’s a free country, and I have no doubt I can defend myself with the 81; I just needed a reliable carry rig.
The Falco Hamilton
I typically prefer polymer holsters, ideally Kydex or another cutting-edge polymer material. Since that wasn’t an option for the Beretta 81, I decided to try Falco Holsters. I was unfamiliar with Falco, but they seemed to specialize in holsters for older firearms. While they do offer nylon, their leather rigs appear to be their primary focus.
I ultimately chose the Falco Hamilton for concealed carry. It’s a traditional Inside-the-Waistband (IWB) rig designed for strongside carry. While appendix carry is popular, I still appreciate the reliability of traditional IWB. The Falco Hamilton is an all-leather rig featuring a pair of polymer belt clips that tuck securely under the belt for enhanced retention.
This holster utilizes a pancake-style design, which works best when worn in the 4 o’clock position. While it may not offer the quickest draw, this design has proven effective for a long time. The classic gun, paired with an old-school carry position and an old-school holster, creates a harmonious combination.
The Falco Hamilton is crafted from ⅛-inch thick full-grain Italian leather. It’s a substantial holster, weighing roughly seven ounces. The leather is treated for durability—hand-dyed, oiled, and lacquered to protect it. This results in a beautiful, rigid, and stiff design, which comes with both advantages and disadvantages worth noting.
Wearing the Falco Hamilton
As I write this, I’m wearing the Hamilton with my Beretta 81 holstered, locked, and cocked. The holster features a heavily reinforced mouth that prevents it from collapsing when you draw the gun. This allows for safe reholstering, and the stiff design ensures a smooth draw without any holster drag—simply grip, rip, and shoot.
The clips enable the Hamilton to be worn with a tucked-in shirt, offering excellent concealment. While neither the gun nor the holster is small, their positioning makes them disappear easily under a T-shirt. I’ve also been able to wear it with my work attire since it’s tuckable.
The rigid leather design means you’ll need to break in this holster before it becomes truly comfortable and conceals optimally. Initially, its stiffness prevents it from conforming much to the body. This can make your hip and pants look a bit stiff and uncomfortable. It requires many hours of wear and movement for it to mold to your body and become comfortable.
It’s never painful, but stiff leather is, well, stiff leather. Once the Hamilton breaks in, it transforms into a very efficient concealed carry holster. It becomes quite comfortable and securely houses my Beretta 81. The inherent stiffness also helps prevent the holster from wearing out prematurely, which could otherwise create an unsafe situation.
Ride or Die
The Hamilton makes it easy for me to strap up with a deliciously old-school gun and enjoy my day. The holster provides a comfortable, concealed, and safe option for a gun that’s not quite the norm. Check out Falco holsters if you need to outfit an old school gun.
Surplus M1 Garand supplies aren’t running out yet, but the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) isn’t waiting for that to happen. They’ve teamed up with an American manufacturer to make new receivers and entirely new guns.
CMP took two test M1 rifles out to Phoenix during the Arizona Game & Fish March Outdoor Expo and then to the CMP Eastern Games in NC to introduce folks to the new CMP M1 project. This is a project that’s been in the works for a while now, and is just getting its reveal. CMP has partnered with Heritage Arms USA for these all-new build M1s.
CMP describes the new M1 Garand as a “commercial reproduction of the classic and historic rifle.”
It uses a commercial forged receiver built to the original military specs. CMP and Heritage Arms used the original drawings and specifications of a Springfield receiver. They also used original receivers as a baseline to recreate identical, forged replicas of the original.
The new M1 Garand receivers will have a CMP serial number in the classic, historical font and format. They’ll be built with commercial barrels and a mix of other commercial and GI parts. They’re saying that most will feature new stocks and barrels, but that many other parts will be original GI.
Why Make new M1s?
Although CMP says that they still have sufficient stock of M1 Garands on hand for now, and continue to try and bring back more from overseas, the supply won’t last forever. Rather than wait until the stock of M1s is exhausted, they teamed up with Heritage Manufacturing to develop a replacement now.
The rifles will be built by CMP armorers who have decades of experience building and repairing M1 Garands. Sales of these new rifles directly fund the CMP’s federally chartered national mission to promote marksmanship. Basically, by ensuring a steady supply of rifles, even after the surplus runs out, CMP ensures that it can continue its mission.
Being that M14s and M16s have the capability for full auto fire, they aren’t likely to be surplused out to civilians like the M1s have. They fall into the ATF’s “once a machinegun, always a machinegun” ruling, so converting them to semi-auto for civilian sales isn’t probable at this point.
Heritage Arms USA
Heritage Arms USA is located in Alabama, just down the road from the CMP armories and the Talladega Marksmanship Park. They’re relatively new to the firearms business, according to CMP, but have vast experience in the machining industry. CMP has worked with them on other projects in recent years, though. The video above gives some background on Heritage and the manufacturing process.
The initial run of rifles will be available in .30-06 and .308. CMP says that other variants will be available down the road. I’d imagine sniper variants would be the obvious next step. Maybe we’ll eventually see Tanker versions again as well?
How Do I Get One?
The CMP M1 Garand is a new commercial gun, so it has to be sold through the normal FFL sales process. CMP has updated its website recently and streamlined online ordering. You can purchase them through CMP, but they’ll still need to be shipped to your local FFL dealer. Alternately, you’ll be able to buy them directly at the CMP’s Talladega Marksmanship Park and Camp Perry stores in person.
The price of the .30-06 and .308 M1 Garands is $1,900 MSRP, plus $40 shipping and handling. You’ll get a CMP custom-fitted hard rifle case with each rifle purchase.
The New M1 Garands will be allowed for use in CMP competitions, and they’re hoping to ship by late Summer 2025. To preorder, check the CMP online order form.
When it comes to shotguns, I generally prefer traditional stocks—I believe “Monte Carlo stock” is the term. There are several reasons for this. Primarily, most shotguns are designed for a standard stock and pistol grip, and stock adaptations can be problematic, especially with Mossberg shotguns due to their tang safety. However, that’s now changing with the 590R series.
The Mossberg 590R series is derived from a breaching shotgun developed for the British Special Operations Community. The significant change with the 590R is the safety placement. Bid farewell to the tang safety and say hello to an AR-style safety mounted on the side of the receiver. Mossberg maintained the ambidextrous ideal and specifically designed the 590R series to work seamlessly with pistol grips.
The new safety placement positions the rotating safety precisely where your thumb naturally rests when gripping the pistol grip of the Mossberg 590R. It’s a metal safety that will feel familiar to anyone who has used an AR-15. A safety located on the side of a Mossberg shotgun might seem prone to accidental manipulation by the user’s gear.
Mossberg anticipated this potential issue and integrated a shielding device into the stock and pistol grip setup. This shield creates a protective “cliff” that runs over the top of the gun, safeguarding the safety from any unintended forces that could inadvertently switch it from safe to fire.
The stock design is distinctly Mossberg. It’s clearly inspired by the AR receiver extension and stock, but it’s a one-piece system, which is a superior design for shotguns. I’ve broken several adapters and bent a few receiver extensions near the threads enough to know that a hollow aluminum tube isn’t robust enough to withstand 12-gauge recoil for long.
Their included stock is pure, beefy polymer and solidly connected to the gun. It’s a six-position adjustable design, allowing for on-the-fly length of pull adjustments. The stock itself can be replaced with any MIL-SPEC AR-15 stock if desired. Mossberg’s proprietary design features a rather nice built-in recoil pad. The gun also accepts AR grips, and while the included grip is perfectly adequate for me, it can be replaced.
Beyond the Safety
While the safety is a major highlight, it’s not the only noteworthy feature. Mossberg produces both a standard model and an “M” model, with “M” denoting the magazine-fed versions. The pistol grip design significantly benefits the magazine-fed variants, making magazine changes much easier compared to a traditional grip.
The gun comes with a heat shield that sits a fair distance off the barrel and works extremely well. It’s also more securely fastened than any other heat shield I’ve encountered. It does an excellent job of protecting your hand. Like other Mossberg shotguns, it’s optics-ready and comes with the rail pre-installed, practically begging for a red dot sight.
My model includes flip-up Magpul sights, which are rifle sights on a shotgun. Mossberg’s new pump design is trim and slim yet perfectly usable. This tube-fed model holds six rounds and comes with an M-LOK tube-to-barrel clamp that isn’t strictly necessary but provides a convenient slot for a light or sling point.
The trigger group is entirely metal, which is an interesting touch, typically seen on the 590A1 series. The Mossberg 590R series is well-built and clearly oriented towards tactical use, though I wouldn’t be surprised if they produce a turkey hunting model in the near future.
At the Range
The Mossberg 590R may be a 12-gauge, but its recoil is manageable. The rear pistol grip offers several benefits, particularly concerning the “push/pull” method of recoil reduction. The grip allows you to pull the shotgun tightly into your shoulder and maintain solid pressure while firing.
Additionally, much like an AR, the gun now utilizes an inline stock. This design helps reduce muzzle rise and directs recoil straight back, rather than back and up as with a traditional shotgun stock. The difference is noticeable.
The stock and its adjustable length of pull make it easy to get behind the gun without it feeling cumbersome. I typically use position two, which is perfect for me. Another benefit I’ve found is easier reloading. It’s simpler to hold the gun up and on target, as the rear pistol grip makes it easier to manage the weight while feeding shells into the tube.
With that in mind, it’s also easier to perform any task with one hand while holding the gun. Opening doors, using a cell phone to call the police, etc., are all more manageable when you have a vertical grip on the firearm.
The Mossberg 590R’s sights can be a bit of a pain. Using the small peep of a rifle sight isn’t ideal for speed, and shotguns are often about speed. I ended up folding the rear sight down and using only the front sight, which yielded excellent results. Ultimately, a red dot is the way to go with these guns.
Running the Gun
The safety works quite well. It’s audibly “clicky” and responsive, moving in and out of position easily—just like an AR safety. My only complaint is that in the “fire” position, the tail of the safety rests against my trigger finger. When firing full-power loads, it can rub and become irritating. Reduced recoil loads, birdshot, etc., don’t pose this problem.
As expected, the gun is reliable. It feeds, fires, and ejects everything I’ve put through it. I fired mostly birdshot, but also a good amount of buckshot and several boxes of slugs. Everything cycled without a problem. It could even be a mini-shell gun with an adapter if you choose.
One downside is that with an inline stock, you’re now using taller sights. This creates height-over-bore issues at close range, where a shotgun truly excels. I’d advise using a large ring reticle on a red dot that can help compensate for this issue. With regular buckshot, it’s not overly noticeable, but with certain loads like FliteControl, it can create several inches of point-of-impact difference.
The 590R and You
The 590R finally provides a shotgun specifically designed and intended for use with a pistol grip and AR-style stock. It has been developed from the ground up to work with a rifle-type stock. The primary benefit I see to this design is making the transition to a shotgun much easier for individuals who are already proficient with the AR-15 platform.
While I won’t be swapping all my shotgun stocks to pistol grip designs, it’s refreshing to see Mossberg try something different and execute it successfully, with only a few minor quirks.
I have a bad habit of just buying weird guns for the sake of their weirdness. I try to keep this on the cheap side, but occasionally you run across something like the Cimarron 1862 Pocket Navy conversion. Then, you simply have to bust out a few hundred dollars for something that just makes you smile. This Cimarron 1862 Pocket Navy conversion isn’t your usual conversion; it chambers the .380 ACP cartridge.
The .380 ACP is known for its use in mouse guns, so its journey into a revolver is a bit of a long story. Original Pocket Navy revolvers were .36 caliber percussion cap revolvers. If you’re going to make a cartridge conversion of these .36 caliber guns, what’s your approach? If you want to maintain the open-top design, you risk too much pressure, especially when trying to keep things small.
The .380 ACP fits this need perfectly. Its low pressure is safe for an open-top revolver, and it keeps the gun’s size consistent with the original Pocket Navy revolvers.
What’s the Point?
You could opt for an obscure and hard-to-find .38 S&W or even a .32 S&W Long. While that would be cool, it limits you to revolver calibers that are often scarce. The .380 ACP, however, is the right size and pressure, plus it’s common and affordable. This lets you plink with the Cimarron 1862 Pocket Navy without breaking the bank.
As far as I can tell, this gun could work for certain cowboy shoots, like those organized by the Single Action Shooting Society. It’s fun to shoot, cheap to shoot, and fits that niche competition role well. For me, it’s just weird and cool. I enjoy single-action revolvers, but often hate the price of most revolver calibers. The .380 ACP makes shooting this one both fun and affordable.
Since we’re discussing the point, you might wonder why this little gun has a six-inch barrel. It seems that Cimarron originally intended to use shorter barrels, somewhere in the 3.75 to 4-inch variety. Unfortunately, the BATFE didn’t approve it. I’d assume this was due to the points system for the Gun Control Act.
Shooting the 1862 Pocket Navy
Speaking of shooting the 1862 Pocket Navy, let’s get into it. The gun doesn’t use moon clips because it doesn’t eject like a double-action revolver. Instead, the rounds headspace on the raised rims in the chamber. It’s a very simple design that works well for a single-action revolver. There’s no loading gate, but the rounds don’t sit directly aligned with the loading area unless the hammer is at half cock, which prevents them from sliding out of the cylinder.
There’s also no ejector rod, so you’ll need to bring a cleaning rod. You’ll have to press out the spent casings. The brass swells a little, so sometimes the rounds get stuck. If you shoot any steel-case .380, this problem will be even worse.
The sights are very rudimentary, seemingly original to the old Colt designs. The 1862 Pocket Navy has a gold bead front sight, and the rear sight is part of the hammer. When you cock the hammer, it aligns with the gold bead. Sadly, the gun isn’t all that accurate, even with its long sight radius.
It can put all five rounds into a four to five-inch group at 15 yards. I would expect much better accuracy from such a long sight radius, but that’s simply not the case. It has everything going for it—a light and crisp single-action trigger, the aforementioned sight radius, and a fixed barrel design. Yet, I can produce much better groups with other firearms.
It’s still a ton of fun to shoot, and you have to assume a one-handed shooting position with a bladed shooting style, like you were some sort of Wild Bill.
Worth the Squeeze
The gun has mild recoil, but it’s more than you’d expect from a .380 ACP. The little grip doesn’t give you much to hold onto, and when the gun recoils, the trigger guard will hit your hand. It’s not terrible or painful, but it’s mildly annoying. Going through a few cylinders quickly demonstrates just how annoying it can be.
The 1862 Pocket Navy is as reliable as you’d expect it to be. It’s a revolver firing a centerfire round with a single-action trigger. It’s going to work unless something serious breaks. It does get a little annoying having to pop out every case with a punch rod, so I never shoot this thing for high round counts.
I don’t compete in SASS or any cowboy-style competition, and I don’t have any real purpose for this gun. It’s not really good at anything specific. It’s fun, and it’s weird, but if fun and weird don’t appeal to you, the 1862 Pocket Navy might not be for you.
An array of waterproof or light and breathable footwear for every occasion.
Choosing the proper outdoor footwear is crucial, especially when weighing the difference between waterproof and light and breathable options. Waterproof shoes keep feet dry in wet conditions, but can be heavier and cause overheating. In contrast, light and breathable footwear offers comfort and ventilation but may not protect against moisture. This article will highlight the facts of each choice to help you make an informed decision for your outdoor adventures.
What’s Better for Footwear? Waterproof or Light and Breathable?
Most people associate outdoor footwear with hiking boots—I know I did! Hiking boots offer ankle support, traction, and durability for rugged terrains. Their design helps prevent injuries, making them ideal for challenging trails. Additionally, hiking boots are heavily marketed as essential outdoor gear, reinforcing their reputation as the go-to choice for outdoor adventures, especially the waterproof type.
Hikers and campers often prefer trail runners over traditional hiking boots. Trail runners are lighter, which reduces fatigue during long outings, and they offer greater flexibility and comfort on less technical terrain. Their breathability helps keep feet cooler and minimizes blisters in warm weather.
Many trail runners have outsoles (the part of the sole that touches the ground) that provide excellent traction while remaining less bulky than boots. They also dry quickly, making them suitable for wet conditions. This versatility allows users to engage in various outdoor activities. Many find that the benefits of trail runners suit their needs better than hiking boots. This preference goes for waterproof or light and breathable footwear.
Injuries
Leg, foot, and ankle injuries happen. No matter what you wear. More people wear boots than any other form of hiking footwear. However, boots won’t make you immune to injuries. In the same way they offer ankle support, they also make you slow to react and correct a bad step. If you depend on boots for ankle support, your ankles will never get stronger.
However, lighter trail runners are easier to maneuver and can help correct a bad step due to their quicker lightness. As for ankle support, it’s pretty simple. If you wear trail runners daily or on more hikes, your ankles will learn their job. You will strengthen your ankles and not depend on heavier footwear to compensate for weak ankles.
Why Waterproof?
Waterproof boots for snow and heavy rain, but not for deep rivers and creeks.
Waterproof footwear has its place. Hiking in the rain and working on a project outdoors when it’s raining come to mind. However, stepping into deep creeks, swamps, or rivers won’t do you any good. Your boots will hold water inside as well as they keep it out.
GORE-TEX material in footwear delivers waterproofing, windproof protection, and limited breathability. This technology keeps feet dry and comfortable in various conditions while allowing moisture to escape. Many companies have their proprietary version of GORE-TEX that is similar. Eventually, it will wet through and become heavy. The worst part is how long it takes for waterproof footwear to dry. This is detrimental on multiday trips!
Light and Breathable?
Trail runners are for outdoor trail running and hiking. They’re light and take nearly zero time to break in. Although not all trail runners are waterproof, they will dry extremely fast on a run or hike. Every step will push water out if you step in a deep puddle or creek. Suppose it’s a sunny day, even better!
Trail runners come in waterproof or light and breathable versions. You’ll be fine if you avoid puddles or creek crossings deeper than your ankle. Hiking in deep snow is the time to use waterproof trail runners with gaiters to keep snow out. I prefer Adidas for my trail runners, whether waterproof or light and breathable, for most occasions.
These are the author’s most-used footwear, comprised of trail runners. Breathable and waterproof.
Trail runner shoes easily slip off, and you can elevate your feet on trail breaks. Try that with boots. Also, when nature calls while camping, it’s easy to slip into trail runners and do your business. Trail runners may not last as long as boots, but they are less expensive when replacing your favorite footwear.
Conclusion: Waterproof or Light and Breathable?
Ultimately, use what makes you comfortable. The common backpacking phrase is “A pound on your feet equals five pounds on your back.” This saying highlights the importance of lightweight footwear, as extra weight on your feet requires significantly more energy to carry than the same weight in your pack.
This is the author’s usual hiking combo: light and breathable trail runners with trail gaiters to keep debris out.
Lever guns have been the big thing in the past couple of years. Pedersoli is modernizing another older repeating rifle mechanism, though with their pump action Jackal 44.
Pedersoli’s Jackal 44 is based on the 1884 Colt Lightning platform. It’s built from modern materials and is strong enough to handle the .44 Magnum cartridge. It’s a pump-action rifle with a side-loading gate and top ejection. The Jackal has an exposed hammer and a tang-mounted safety. They’ve basically taken a 140-year-old design and updated it for the 21st Century.
The Pedersoli Jackal 44 has a 19-inch barrel with 5/8” x 24 threading. It’s equipped with an adjustable fiber optic rear sight and a fiber optic front sight. The barrel is tapped to accept a Picatinny rail for optics mounting. It uses an under-barrel magazine tube that holds six rounds.
Materials and Finish
The rifle has a stock and forend made of walnut, with a matte oil finish. There’s checkering at the grip and on the pump for a positive feel. The stock has a high-profile comb suitable for use with a red dot sight. The stock is equipped with a Microcell butt pad. The receiver is Cerakoted, and other parts appear to be blued.
A New Wave of Modern Pumps?
I’m a fan of pump-action rifles. They’re generally fast and easy to handle. I always wanted one of the old Israeli Timberwolf pump rifles, but never managed to snag one. I like the Remington 760 pumps, too. In fact, I had one as a loaner on a recent camping trip in Montana.
The new Pedersoli Jackal 44 is a welcome entry into the field. I like that it has that old 1884 Lightning character, but with a modern caliber and sighting options. Details are a little slim right now, and it looks like the English page on the Pedersoli website is a direct translation from Italian. So, it reads a little odd to a native English speaker.
It’s a good-looking rifle, though, and I’m anxious to hear more about it. No MSRP is listed yet, or shipping dates, but I’ll be keeping an eye out for updates.
This isn’t a review per se; rather, it’s a post about appreciation for the Garmin Xero C1 Chronograph. This handy pocket-sized chronograph is one of my most indispensable tools that I rely on as a shooter.
At the risk of using cliched and tired adjectives, the Garmin Xero C1 really is a revolutionary game-changer.
There, I said it! I never use adjectives like those in my work.
It’s kinda too late now, since you’ll likely be reading this in June 2025. But after purchasing my own Garmin Xero C1 last summer and using it on a regular basis, I wanted to proclaim it as the unofficial “P.E. Fitch shooting accessory/product of the year for 2024.”
This little chronograph makes my life easier. As a writer and reviewer, having access to firearm and cartridge muzzle velocity is crucial. Without a doubt, most gun publications require writers to share muzzle velocity figures. They always have, and it’s hard not to love a time-saving tool that makes the most tedious part of reviewing any firearm that much easier.
Sure, this prima facie level of convenience that the Garmin Xero C1 provides is laudable, but I don’t think that’s its most remarkable aspect either. No, what blows me away is that when bundled as a system with its mobile phone app, the Garmin Xero C1 turns into an extremely powerful information-gathering system. Never has it been so easy to collect, store, and access gun-and-cartridge telemetry in one fell swoop.
How can you not love a device that makes capturing expensive information so easy?
Game Recognize Game: Farewell To The Labradar
I almost don’t feel qualified enough to be writing this. I’ve only owned and used two different chronographs in my life. The first was a Labradar, and the second is my Garmin, which has since replaced it. Because I started writing about firearms only roughly three years ago, I was able to cut in line away from dealing with whimsical traditional chronographs that were sensitive to light, had to be set up a certain way, and/or had the two triangular-shaped antennae that one had to carefully shoot through. I never had to deal with those types of inconveniences.
I plunked down $675 in February 2023 for my Labradar. It wasn’t cheap. At the time, I was starting to get more serious about writing firearms articles, so I wanted the most serious chronograph I could get my hands on.
And prior to Garmin disrupting the consumer-grade chronograph market, the Labradar was pretty much the top dog in its category. Since its launch in 2014, the Labradar wasn’t as clunky or cumbersome as the traditional bunny-eared chronographs, and it was objectively the best choice. Mind you, it still had its quirks, but it was hard to beat—until Garmin dropped that bombshell.
Using The Labradar Before The Garmin
The old and the new
For context, when the Labradar was arguably the top-of-the-line model, the unit was still relatively expensive. By all means, it captured accurate data.
But as a user, you still needed to purchase its power source and a stand separately. This added to its overall cost and complexity. I used a laser-level tripod–the same as a basic camera tripod. It was tall enough to shoot next to in a free-standing tactical bay.
The Labradar accepted six AA batteries, but it was also a power-hungry device, which basically made it mandatory to use some type of external power bank.
While the setup isn’t as complicated as a traditional chronograph, the unit was more sensitive to muzzle placement. Likewise, it was more sensitive to both rimfire and hot magnum rifle rounds (or rifle barrels with muzzle brakes). It was possible to adjust the settings, but that wasn’t super smooth either.
For rimfire or suppressed use, they sold a separate “microphone” that would pick up shots for the main device. I found that there was a learning curve to understanding how to capture muzzle velocities with the Labradar. Prior to capturing velocities, you had to ensure the device was pointed precisely at your target. Its exterior housing had a rough sighting notch meant to serve as a rudimentary sight.
Unfortunately, there were many times when it failed to capture and record many a rifle shot. And that feels quite aggravating when a cartridge costs over $2.00 each! But at the time, I’d argue it was top of the line. (I never messed with rifle-mounted chronographs because I work with so many handguns.)
The Garmin Xero C1 In A Nutshell
Charging the Xero C1 on an airplane!
With the full understanding that the Garmin team had years of hindsight to take into account after the launch of the Labradar, it wasn’t hard to topple the previous king by the time Xero C1s started rolling out.
The Garmin Xero C1 is far easier to set up and shoot with. It doesn’t need a separate stand. It also has a USB-C rechargeable self-contained battery that charges like a cell phone. The best part? It’s very small. It’s not hard to fit the Xero in a pocket. It weighs nothing and stows easily. It’s almost easy to take for granted that its 6-hour internal battery can be charged in the car on the way to the range.
Captured every shot from this braked Savage 110 Magpul Scout
When shooting, it’s far more forgiving and way more convenient when it comes to placement around the firearm, be it a handgun or rifle. It has no problem recording suppressed shots or shots fired from anything rimfire.
Capturing subsonic/suppressed .22 LR pistol data
The Garmin companion app (Shotview) for mobile phones easily talks to the Xero C1. It sends all the data, sorts it categorically by rifle or pistol, and makes information easy to find. The app also provides the end-user with extra opportunities to label and display each “session.” No need to take notes or write stuff down externally. It’s all there. Finally, each session can be easily exported as a CSV (spreadsheet) automatically.
Capturing Expensive Information Easily
Screeenshot of a CSV file that was automatically generated as a spreadsheet on my phone. (Data from Savage 110 Magpul Scout, 6.5mm Creedmoor)
Capturing ballistic information isn’t cheap. It’s not just the obvious costs associated with the ammunition or handloads that get fired into the berm. It’s also the effort involved in taking time to go to the range and setting everything up needed to capture this information. Time is a precious commodity.
Using the Garmin as a system saves time both on the front and back ends. Unlike the Labradar, which might have missed a shot, my Xero C1 seldom misses any shots, especially when shooting deliberately. Its easy setup is also a giant time-saver, and the device can sit right on the bench or to the side of the shooting mat, behind the muzzle. By compiling the data into the Shotview app, it saves time on that front, too.
Data from three different loads at a glance.
I think the implications of a convenient chronograph go beyond easy setup and ease of use. That it’s able to collect muzzle velocity data so effortlessly also means that it has never been easier to compile ballistic information. For the handloaders and really big-brain types, they can build metaphorical rifle-shooting goldmines with this information.
So yes, I think the Garmin Xero C1 chronograph warrants the term “gamechanger” for once.
Post Script
Now that it’s mid-2025, the Garmin Xero C1 has some direct competition. It wasn’t long after Garmin introduced the Xero C1 that Labradar also came up with a similar direct competitor. By now, Athlon Optics sells a Xero C1 competitor for approximately $150 less. I have no serious opinions on either of these Garmin competitors, but it’s worth mentioning that they are out there. I’ve never shot with either of them.
As for me, well, I spent a nice chunk of change buying both the Labradar and the Xero C1 within the span of a year. I’m tapped out on chronograph funds. As expensive as it was, the Garmin has been indispensable.
For more information, read Sean Utley’s full review of the Garmin Xero C1 chronograph.
Many, if not most, dads appreciate a good knife. Fortunately, there are several great options at varying budget levels for you to consider when you’re shopping for Father’s Day. You don’t need to spend a ton of money to get something awesome. That said, if you and your siblings want to go in together on one, there are a few pricier options that are worth the extra expense.
Knives: They’re What Dad Really Wants this Father’s Day
The Hiker is one of my favorite Swiss Army Knife models, and it makes for a great Father’s Day gift. And at under $30, it’s a budget-friendly option. It features the usual knife blade, screwdrivers, bottle opener, and such. But the addition of the wood saw is what seals the deal for me. The saw works great for making small notches when you’re bushcrafting, or even if you’re just messing around in the backyard. Every dad should have at least one Swiss Army Knife.
Buck Alpha Guide Select
Photo courtesy DLT Trading.
It’s hard to beat a Buck when it comes to value. An excellent fixed blade knife, the Alpha Guide Select is well-designed and well-made. Dads will love that it’s comfortable in hand, even with extended use. The blade is a hair over four inches, giving him plenty of knife to get the job done without being clumsy or awkward. The Alpha Guide comes with a nice nylon sheath. At just under $70, it’s a great value.
Spartan Blades George Raider Dagger
Photo courtesy DLT Trading.
Les George designed this dagger with its obvious WWII inspiration. Admittedly, it’s not as useful on a daily basis as the other knives on our list. But if Dad is a WWII buff, he’ll definitely appreciate getting one of these for Father’s Day. It isn’t just a showpiece, either. The 7-inch SK5 steel blade is razor sharp and ready for action. The injection-molded sheath is suitable for left- or right-side carry. At about $120, Dad will be impressed with the quality while you avoid going broke.
Smith & Sons Mudbug
Photo courtesy DLT Trading.
The Mudbug from Smith & Sons Knives is a robust folding knife. It’s the perfect Father’s Day present for a dad who does a lot of work, whether that’s on the clock or around the house. It’s a locking folding knife, somewhat similar in size to the Buck 110. It has a classic design that’s been upgraded with modern materials. It’s made to be used and abused.
DLT Trading has it in a couple of different colors. Personally, I like the teal. It’s a bit less than $200, so it isn’t a cheap date. But it’s also not a one-night stand, as the Mudbug will be around for a long time to come.
Bark River Knives Adventurer 3V
Photo courtesy KnivesShipFree.
Pocket-sized fixed blades are popular, and for good reason. A fixed blade doesn’t need to be opened prior to use, just pulled from its sheath. And in some situations, speed could be important. The Adventurer in CPM 3V steel is an excellent choice for this application. Dad will love that it’s small enough to easily carry while large enough to do real work. It’s available in numerous handle materials. The base model in black canvas micarta runs about $225 at KnivesShipFree.
The author with an easy DIY Hand Grill. He found the perfect branch, and it made everything easier.
Ready for more outdoor cooking fun with two DIY hand and swamp grills? The hand grill is perfect for toasting bread and warming ham steaks. On the bright side, the swamp grill boasts impressive size and shines when cooking over coals and a gentle flame. You can whip up both of these DIY grills using a knife, a baton, or a chopping tool. Get ready to spice up your outdoor cooking escapades with these fun projects!
I absolutely love using my hand grill to warm up or toast bread and tortillas, and it’s also fantastic for cooking sausages to perfection. I craft this simple yet effective grill from flexible, non-toxic green branches.
To start, I select a branch roughly the same width as my outstretched arms, allowing for ample cooking area. Select a branch with a wide V section. I then carefully bend this branch into a circular hoop and secure it through the natural friction of the wood. However, a twisting method works well, or you can utilize some sturdy binders for added stability.
A Beechwood hand grill is ideal for roasting and toasting. Just remember to use coals or a mild flame to avoid any unexpected culinary surprises!
Next, I add a centerpiece, anchoring smaller branches perpendicularly to it, which helps to define the grill’s structure. This process requires some finesse, strategic tweaking, and possibly a few additional branches to ensure everything holds together. While it might not be a beauty queen in the world of grills, it serves its purpose remarkably well. Let’s be honest, it is a disposable grill after all! That’s the beauty of these hand and swamp grills.
I use it for only one or two cookouts, mainly because green wood tends to dry out quickly after exposure to heat. Nonetheless, the satisfaction of using something crafted from nature adds to the enjoyment of grilling.
Swamp Grills: Jungle Style Cooking
The allure of the jungle brings to mind epic tales of adventure. Lush greenery, slithering snakes, buzzing bugs, towering bamboo, and a vibrant array of wildlife all spark our imaginations. But cooking in the jungle? That’s a whole different ballgame!
With an abundance of natural materials at your fingertips, whipping up a meal becomes surprisingly simple. Swamp grills make it all that much more fun. As long as you have a sturdy blade in hand and can spark a fire, you’re all set for culinary fun in the wild!
The swamp grill and tongs are a perfect pair! That charred piece of meat on the right owes its rescue to those trusty tongs.
I picked up the art of swamp grilling in the Peruvian Rainforest, but this technique has been around for ages. It just takes a little creativity and some green sticks. Building a cooking rack or grill resembles setting up a raised bed (like a swamp bed) for sleeping in the jungle.
Start by sinking four forked “Y” sticks into the ground to create the corners of a rectangle. Lay down cross sticks between the forked ends first—those will act as the head and foot of your grill. Next, grab some green sticks that are roughly the thickness of your thumb and place as many as you need along the cross sticks to form the grate.
Does Size Matter?
The grill’s size matters—just think about the campfire’s size and how much food you plan to cook. When you set up the grill this way, you can practically bet that at least one piece of meat, a pepper, or a slice of bread will find its way into the flames. This is especially true if you didn’t use enough sticks during construction.
To deal with this culinary chaos, whip up a pair of tongs! They’ll help you maneuver food around and rescue anything that bravely ventures too close to the fire gods!
A bamboo jungle kitchen with a swamp grill, and hanging pot system. All built using a Golok.
Summary
When I think of rustic outdoor cooking, two grills come to mind: the swamp grill, made from sturdy green wood for larger groups, and the handy grill for broiling or roasting over coals. Each brings its own charm to the campfire cooking scene!
In a move designed to help the national Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act gain traction in the U.S. Congress, 24 state attorneys general recently sent a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries urging them to move the bill forward.
National Constitutional Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act
The AGs, led by Oklahoma AG Gentner Drummond and West Virginia AG John. B. McCuskey told House leaders that Congress should pass the bill for the safety of lawful Americans.
“The perspective we offer comes from our experience as the chief law officers of our states, all of which either recognize the right of law-abiding citizens to carry concealed handguns without a permit or grant full recognition to concealed carry credentials issued by other states,” the letter stated.
“Simply put, we know firsthand that recognizing a broad right of concealed carry among law-abiding Americans promotes public safety and respects the fundamental liberties of our constituents. It is with these constituents in mind that we urge Congress to pass H.R. 38.”
Getting The Truth Out
As the AGs pointed out, so-called “mainstream” media often lie about concealed carry and concealed carry legislation. So, they want to set the record straight.
“News reports and commentary sometimes misconstrue what H.R. 38 does and whom it would benefit,” the letter stated. “We therefore believe it is helpful to reiterate certain facts about the legislation.
“First, H.R. 38 is aimed at the law-abiding gun owner. It categorically excludes anyone who is ‘prohibited by Federal law from possessing, transporting, shipping, or receiving a firearm.’ Additionally, anyone who has been convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, is subject to an active domestic violence restraining order, is facing a pending felony indictment, is a fugitive from justice, is present in the country illegally, or is an unlawful user of a controlled substance is excluded. Finally, persons with serious mental health issues, as established by court commitments or adjudications, are also excluded.”
Also in the letter, the AGs explained that most violent criminals don’t just take a trip to the local gun shop, undergo a background check, and buy a firearm they intend to use in a crime.
“Criminals, in our experience, do not wait for permission to carry guns,” they wrote. “H.R. 38 is not for them. It is for honest and law-abiding citizens who deserve to have the means to protect themselves, should they have the misfortune of needing to use a firearm in self-defense or the defense of their loved ones.”
A Constitutional Right
Ultimately, the AGs told Reps. Johnson and Jeffries that Americans have a constitutional right to keep and bear arms. That includes freely traveling from state to state with their lawfully owned firearms.
“Concealed carry is a constitutional right, and it can have substantial public safety benefits by allowing people the means to respond to emergent threats to themselves or others when police are not immediately available to intervene,” the letter concluded.
“Yet our constituents are threatened with arrest, prosecution, and mandatory prison time for technical violations of licensing or possession laws involving conduct that is perfectly legal in all but a handful of states, most of which have well-established history and practice of suppressing the right to keep and bear arms. This is unacceptable, and Congress has the authority and the duty to protect these rights.”
The CRKT CEO Flipper is a sleek, compact folding knife with a stylish design by Richard Rogers. Its AUS 8 stainless steel blade offers great edge retention, making it perfect for everyday carry.
Modern Gentleman’s Folding Knives are the perfect blend of style and functionality, making them essential tools for work, play, or any occasion. Whether you’re tackling everyday tasks or enjoying outdoor adventures, these knives offer a reliable solution with a touch of sophistication.
Not all CEO’s wear suits! The CRKT CEO Flipper is a sleek, ultra-low-profile folding knife that’s as functional as it is stylish. Designed by Richard Rogers, this pocket knife combines effortless deployment with a refined, professional aesthetic. At first glance, its slim, pen-like shape allows it to blend seamlessly into a pocket, making it an ideal everyday carry tool.
The AUS 8 high-carbon stainless steel blade ensures excellent edge retention and is easy to sharpen, while the glass-reinforced nylon handle keeps the knife lightweight without sacrificing durability. Thanks to its IKBS™ ball bearing pivot, the CRKT CEO Flipper opens smoothly and swiftly with the flick of a finger. A liner lock mechanism provides one-handed closing convenience while keeping the blade secure during use.
For added versatility, an adjustable pocket clip allows for both left- and right-handed carry. Whether used for precise cutting tasks or as a sleek companion for daily use, the CEO Flipper is a practical and elegant tool for professionals and knife enthusiasts alike.
Modern Gentleman’s Carry
The lightweight glass-reinforced nylon handle enhances durability, while the IKBS™ pivot enables smooth, one-handed opening and closing with a secure liner lock.
After approximately six weeks of carrying this featherweight slicer, I hate to move on to another knife. Its weight and slim carry footprint have forever spoiled me. I used the CEO for various tasks, even beyond CEO’s work. I efficiently handled countless boxes, packages, letters, and hors d’oeuvres with this sleek executive-style tool!
The CEO Flipper is a practical and stylish tool for professional or knife enthusiasts.
MSRP: $60.00
Modified Gentleman’s Folding Wharncliffe
The Highbanks model shares some appealing features with its Bridgeline sibling, the Case Longhouse. This knife draws inspiration from classic designs. It showcases lightweight aluminum frames and pinched, fluted bolsters.
Case sticks to its reliable stonewashed satin CPM-20CV blade. However, it takes a different approach for the opening and locking mechanism. This model uses a traditional slip joint with a half stop. The long nail nick allows for effortless blade access.
The Case Longhouse is a knife that proudly takes cues from timeless designs. It boasts lightweight aluminum frames and stylish, pinched, fluted bolsters that add a touch of elegance.
They chose dependable Micarta for the grip, which offers durability, scratch resistance, and a secure feel in the hand. It’s no wonder it has become popular in the knife community. This makes the knife one of the good modern gentleman’s folding knives.
The Highbanks feature handles made of rosewood, which comes from various hardwoods found in the rainforest. Case has a long history of using rosewood in outdoor knives.
The blade measures 2.75 inches, and the knife is 4 inches when closed. It weighs 2.8 ounces, making it lighter than the Longhouse. The deep-carry steel pocket clip makes it easy to carry. Plus, the Highbanks comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Case Gentleman’s Folding Knives Field Use
I frequently opted for the Case Highbanks because of it’s light weight and compact size. This modified Wharncliffe stands out from the traditional version; instead of a straight edge, it features a delightful curve—more flair. This knife excels at precision cutting and slicing tasks.
When I first used it, I was impressed by how incredibly sharp and expertly ground the edge was. I wasted no time putting it to work, slicing through rope, tackling clamshell packaging, and even helping with fire prep in the great outdoors. That curvy blade shone when I needed to create fine curls of wood for tinder while kindling the flames.
he Highbanks helped the author create thin curls of wood for tinder while starting the fire, and made quick stakes for camp.
The long nail nick makes handling the knife a breeze; using my thumbnail or pinching it between my forefinger and thumb is simple. I found it comfy gripping it from the side (chest lever grip), and the pinched bolster provided a perfect resting spot for my thumb.
After a good amount of use, the knife still felt solid. Eventually, I had to sharpen it on a Work Sharp Pro Elite. Then, it was back to punching out horses again, proving it fits into the modern gentleman’s folding knives class!
Here’s Lt. Mike doing some local training with a local officer and Navy reservist briefing on the operation of the M60.
Here’s a preferred carry spotlight on a former Law Enforcement Officer to uncover the sidearms carried on and off duty. Also, preferred cutting tools. Check out behind the scenes of the gear the pros swear by!
Lt. Mike Lychock is a retired police officer and trainer. He has over 37 years of law enforcement and government service. Lt. Mike is a practitioner of bushcraft and survival skills, and most things outdoors. Mike has been a Patrol Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Detective.
Instructor Training/Career Highlights:
Defensive Driving Instructor
Firearms Instructor
Iron Site Rifle Instructor
Certified New Jersey State Police Training Commission Instructor
Sub-machine gun Instructor
High Risk Warrant Specialist
Tactical Shield Instructor
New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness, N.J.O.H.S.P. Counter Terrorism Watch Unit 2011 to Present
Lt. Mike, What Got You into Law Enforcement?
My Dad said I wanted to be a police officer as a kid, but I don’t remember that. After high school, I attended community college until I found my path. Influenced by older friends in law enforcement, I got a security job at an amusement park, which helped me gain experience in public service and enforcement. This led to a dispatcher role at my town’s police department, and in 1985, I became an officer there. A year later, I joined a larger neighboring department where I worked for 25 years until retirement.
What Type of Wilderness Skills Training Have You Been Part Of?
Lt. Mike in Pennsylvania at a Bushcraft gathering with like-minded people in the industry.
My formal training began with Tom Brown at the Tracker School in 1999. A few years later, I met Marty Simon and Kevin Estela through Dan Shechtman, a writer in the outdoor industry. I had been following Dan’s outings, so I emailed him at Tactical Knives magazine, and he invited me to a weekend trip in Pennsylvania.
This scenario-based trip, with limited equipment, helped me connect with a great group of people and opened doors to many experiences. I attended various classes and events with Marty at the Wilderness Learning Center in New York, including land navigation and winter survival training.
When Kevin started his school, I assisted him with several courses. Additionally, I trained at Byron Kerns’ survival school in Virginia, Madison Parker’s survival course in Florida, and most recently, with Tim Smith at Jack Mountain Bushcraft in Maine.
What Was Your Issued Firearm While Working as an Officer?
I started my career with a Smith & Wesson Model 469 9mm, then a Beretta Model 92F 9mm, GLOCK Model 22 .40 cal, and ended my career with the GLOCK Model 21 .45 ACP. Most of the time was with the GLOCK 22, my favorite and the most trigger time.
Preferred Carry: Long Gun or Handgun?
I’m a handgun guy. As a firearms instructor, that’s where I spent most of my training time. We didn’t have patrol rifles when I started in the 80s, and it was several years before we got rifles for our tactical team. We ran sub-guns and shotguns for a while, but I was issued a Colt M4 later in my career, which I hated to turn in upon retirement.
Is The “21-Foot Rule” Distance Sufficient?
Yes, it was a big deal in the 80s. We knew it as the Tueller Drill, named for the officer who developed the concept. I was fortunate to have worked when this stuff was new, and law enforcement was adjusting to the importance of firearms training and combatives beyond the twice-a-year static qualifications.
We used to drill with a running man target system that would advance toward the shooter and close the 21-foot distance on a motorized cable. Some earlier drills were rudimentary and reckless, but we drilled them.
On the Hudson River shortly after 9/11 with ground zero in the background. All roads shut down, so a NJ State Police boat provided the easiest way to reach the WTC wreckage.
What Is Your Preferred Firearm Off-Duty in Town or the Woods, And Why?
I carried a GLOCK Sub-Compact Mod. 27 .40 Cal. for years as a backup gun and as an off-duty gun. For woods, I carried the same as it was my authorized off-duty gun. As a retired guy, I carry mostly the GLOCK Model 43 9mm and occasionally the GLOCK Model 45 9mm for both town and woods carry. Again, this is what I am qualified to carry.
What Are Your Preferred Cutting Tools on the Job?
When I started, I mostly carried some type of lockback or a Swiss Army knife since the tactical folder wasn’t born yet. I later carried a Terzuola ATCF combat folder and/or a Chris Reeve Sebenza through the 1990s-2000s, ending with a Benchmade Ritter RSK MK1 Griptilian. On my TAC vest, I had a smooth back GLOCK knife.
What Cutting Tools Do You Carry, Such As EDC Or Woods Tools, And Why?
My preferred carry was a 4-inch range bushcraft knife, usually Scandi ground, for years. My first knife was by Mora or Marttini, followed by Dan Koster’s Bushcrafter. I also used a Skookum Bushtool, which I’ve used for many years and is still in the rotation. I’ve added the Wenger Blades Bush Pilot, Knives By Nuge Bruin, and Cub. I also use the Reiff Knives F4—all outstanding Scandi ground knives.
For EDC, I have been really liking the pocket fixed blades lately. They offer a lot of versatility. Again, I mostly use Knives by Nuge and Wenger Blades. The newer Hogue Ritter is still an EDC option.
Mike has trained with some of the best in the survival industry like Tom Brown at the Tracker School in 1999, Marty Simon, and Kevin Estela.
Preferred Carry Go-To Firestarter?
The old standby, Vaseline-soaked cotton ball. Cheap, readily made, and very effective. Marty Simon professed that any good emergency tinder should be able to be ignited by a spark or flame.
Best Thing About Being on the Job?
The camaraderie and the wide range of daily experiences and opportunities.
Much appreciated, Mike. I am honored to call you my friend!
You brought a knife to a gunfight, which has ended many bad guys’ days in many action movies. I couldn’t tell you who did it first, but it’s common enough to be a trope. What if you brought a knife to a gunfight that actually fired bullets? That’s right, we are talking about knife guns.
The French Apache is a meme at this point. The Apache combined a knife, a pin fire 7mm pepperbox, and a set of knuckle dusters. Legend has it that the gun gained its name from a French gang, or loose collaboration of criminals called Les Apaches, who roamed the streets of France, robbing, beating, and killing.
The little knife gun has a short, folding blade that doubled as either a bayonet for the revolver or a knife that combined with the knuckle dusters for a proto trench knife design. Overall, the folding blade looks quite weak, and I have a hard time believing it would be all that useful. Quite a bit about the Les Apaches has been made up or, at best, exaggerated. So, I doubt these were a widespread option for the Les Apaches.
The Russian NRS-2
Leave it up to the tomahawk-chucking Ruskies to come up with a knife gun designed for military use. The NRS-2 is a single-shot survival knife using a bizarre cartridge. The 7.62x41mm SP-4 cartridge was originally designed for the PSS silent pistol and uses a charge to propel a piston and launch the round.
The NRS-2 has an effective range of 25 meters, which seems awfully optimistic. The gun uses a fairly complicated firing design. For what it’s worth, this is a survival knife, and having a small-caliber gun could be useful for bagging small game. I wouldn’t hope anyone would be trying to win a fight with an awkward-to-shoot knife gun.
The Chinese QSB-11
Not to be outdone by their Communist friends, the Chinese came up with their own knife gun. The QSB-11 takes things to a different level. Why have a single shot when you could have a four-shot knife gun that fires this weird 5.8x21mm cartridge? The gun has four barrels arranged around the blade to offer a repeating action.
A double-action trigger mechanism makes the QSB-11 fast to fire, at least for the four rounds you have. It’s a COP Derringer with a bayonet! This gun is issued to paratroopers and special operations, but hopefully, not as a sidearm, but a survival tool.
Arsenal RS-1
The Arsenal RS-1 is a knife gun intended for weirdos like me who spend too much money on weird things. It has a concealed revolver that shoots six rounds of .22 short and uses a double-action trigger.
The barrel sits above the blade, and the trigger is a simple mechanism that descends from the handle and is squeezed to fire. The Arsenal RS-1’s handle opens to reveal the cylinder and allows you to reload. As far as I can tell, this was intended for American sales, but just know it is an AOW and subject to the NFA.
PKP Knife Pistol
The PKP Knife Pistol is an American design, built and sold by Americans. It combines the function of what is essentially a Bowie knife with a single-barrel break-open gun. Calibers can vary, with .38 Special being the most common. The stated purpose was to create a trapper knife that could kill a wounded animal. Other calibers include .22LR and .45 ACP.
The gun portion appears to use a single-action trigger mechanism with a hammer above the barrel and a trigger as part of the grip. Due to the visible hammer and trigger, this knife gun appears not to be an AOW. That’s neat, but sadly, these are expensive and rare, with low production numbers. There is a website that makes it seem like they are still being made and sold, but I can’t tell for certain if it’s legit.
Knife Guns: Why?
I’d love to tell you why people make these. Obviously, the weirdo market exists, and I’m part of it. Beyond that, it amazes me that two standing armies, which are supposed to be near peers, field knife pistols. Knife guns are certainly rare, but the idea to combine the two has certainly transcended the world and common sense.
If you read anything I write, you know I love weird guns. If I love weird guns, then I must love weird gun genres. Sometimes, weird guns become an entire genre, and you just have to deal with it. Let’s dig into five weird gun genres that tip the scales of normality and oddity.
Kit guns, called tackle box guns, are often small-caliber working guns designed for the great outdoors. The overall idea is to have a very cheap, small-caliber revolver that could be used to shoot snakes and similar pests. These revolvers were often .22LRs or .32 S&W. They were perfect for camping, hiking, and fishing, and offered a small frame, low recoil, and a little shooter.
Guns from Iver Johnson, H&R, and similar budget companies were favorites. Cheap guns meant that if they were lost when fishing in the murky lakes and streams, you weren’t out a ton of money. It was cheap to toss and replace when it eventually rusted into pieces. Small calibers were great for pests, didn’t make too much noise, and could be pleasant to shoot.
This is probably the least odd of these weird gun genres. It’s a handy little thing, but these days, the idea of a semi-disposable small caliber revolver has fallen to the wayside.
Boys Rifles
The idea of Boys’ rifles would absolutely terrify folks these days. A child shooting a rifle designed and built for them safely and responsibly! It would leave mouths aghast. Boys’ rifles were from an era when guns were more normalized and gun safety was common. Boys’ rifles were small-caliber, mostly rimfire .22LR guns that were cheaply made and often simple bolt-action single shots.
These rifles were made to be lightweight, with short stocks and simple actions. Some were even given away to boys for selling a particular amount of balm. Imagine getting a free gun for selling balm as a child! That would rule! These days, these rifles don’t have a lot of collector’s value but appear to be fairly cheap. I have a couple and plan to collect them as they cross my path.
As far as weird gun genres go, this one would seem bizarre to the average person today, but was once a very normal thing.
Camp Rifles
Camp rifles or camp carbines are lightweight, pistol-caliber, semi-auto rifles. Only one rifle ever called itself a camp rifle, and that’s the Marlin Camp Carbine. The Marlin Camp Carbines were 9mm or .45 ACP rifles that used either S&W 59 magazines or M1911 magazines. They were reliable rifles with simple wood stocks and iron sights.
These days, plenty of PCCs could fall into the camp rifle genre. The SUB 2000 and S&W FPC come to mind for their lightweight, compact design. The idea is to have a gun you could use defensively, to eliminate pests, and just plink while camping at a great price point.
Can weird gun genres include a genre that only has one named entry? I think so.
Arm Pistols
Arm pistols might be my favorite of the weird gun genres. There are only two of note, and both were intended to be extremely compact weapons. Arm pistols promised a rifle-caliber platform that wasn’t a whole lot bigger than a pistol. These pistols would be against your arm with your firing hand extended, and the gun used a bullpup format.
Colt designed the IMP, or Individual Multi-Purpose Weapon, as a semi-auto bullpup pistol firing the .221-17 IMP or the .221 Remington Fireball. The original Bushmaster also produced an Arm Pistol, but this one was a 5.56 caliber gun that used AR mags and a handful of AR parts. Both guns had a rear portion that rotated to allow the gun to rest on your arm.
These fireball-spitting bolsters are very rare. The IMP never left the prototype stage, but the Arm Pistol was available for a few years, and Hydra recently brought it back in a limited edition run.
Disposable Guns
The idea of Disposable Guns has never taken off, but that hasn’t stopped the United States from trying over and over to make it a thing. Disposable guns are the rarest of these weird gun genres. Very few ever made it into the collector’s hands. Disposable guns include the Liberator from World War II, the Deer Gun from Vietnam, and the never-produced Winchester Liberator.
The Deer Gun and OG Liberator were pistols designed to be as cheaply produced as possible and dropped on resistance fighters. The fighters could shoot an enemy and take their gun. The Winchester Liberator was a multi-barrel shotgun designed to do the same thing, but it would be a little more effective.
Disposable guns never took off. It was often cheaper to drop the guns you’ve made or made for the last war. It’s also much more effective to drop hundreds of pounds of bombs than hundreds of pounds of disposable guns.
The Weird Gun Genres
I love weird guns, so it makes sense that I love weird gun genres. These are the five most common, and all five tend to be quite rare. After writing about so many weird guns, I figured it was time to tackle entire genres of weird guns.
