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Water Safety – Prep for Potential Problems

Water Safety

Where I live, there are several lakes that are popular for recreation, including boating, swimming, and fishing. Thousands of people from out of town, even out of state, flock to the area each summer. Any time people are recreating on or near lakes, rivers, and such, water safety is important.

Over the 4th of July weekend this year, locally, we had at least two drownings and one severe spinal injury occur. These events are absolutely tragic, but they are often preventable.

Diving

Diving into shallow water can lead to head, neck, and spinal injuries. Most of the time, the diver believed the water was deeper than it truly was. The general rule of thumb is that water should be at least 8-9 feet deep to be considered safe for diving. Never dive into water if you’re unsure of the depth. If you’re not absolutely certain, go in feet first to check the depth before you try diving. Better to do that than to end up paralyzed for the rest of your life.

Water Safety - Diving
Never dive into water unless you’re absolutely certain it’s deep enough to do so safely.

Also, remember that while the water might indeed be deep enough, there may be obstructions hidden underwater that could mess up your day. I grew up near a lake that had an area locals referred to as Stumpy Bay. As the name might imply, there were hundreds of old tree stumps under the water’s surface. This area was fairly close to a sand bar that was popular for swimming. If you didn’t know approximately where that sand bar ended and the stumps began, you could be in for an ugly surprise.

Drowning

There are numerous things that can contribute to a drowning accident, such as getting caught in a powerful current or undertow, being intoxicated, and simply not knowing how to swim very well. It can happen quickly, especially if panic sets in. The water doesn’t even need to be that deep for drowning to occur.

Water Safety - Drowning
It can happen pretty quickly, especially if you panic.

Mitigation starts by learning how to swim. This isn’t a difficult skill to learn, but it does take a little practice. Doing so will also help you be more comfortable in the water. When I was very young, I used to be terrified of going into water that was more than waist-high, largely because my overprotective father had convinced me that drowning was going to be the likely result of going in over my head. But once I learned how to swim, I was able to lose most of that tension and have fun in the water.

A very important water safety rule is to never go swimming alone. Always have other people around and make sure everyone is watching out for one another. It is particularly important to keep an eye on young children.

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption if you’re going to be on or near the water. It dulls your reaction speed as well as your judgment. This is important from the swimmer’s perspective as well as for those who are keeping an eye out for safety.

Keep flotation devices nearby, just in case. There is no shame in wearing a life preserver when you’re in the water or on a boat, no matter how old you are.

Water Safety - flotation device
Always have flotation devices handy, just in case.

Swimsuit Colors

When buying a swimsuit for children, or even adults for that matter, stick with neon bright colors that will stand out in the water. Blue, gray, and black tend to disappear, making it hard for you or others to see the swimmer, especially when they’re in lakes and rivers as opposed to clear water swimming pools.

Have fun in the water, but do it in a safe manner.

New Ruger MAX-9 Drops

Ruger just dropped a new version of its subcompact MAX-9 9mm pistol at the beginning of July. The Max-9 has been out since early 2021 so it’s time for an update, and Ruger did just that.

The MAX-9 was Ruger’s answer to guns like the Springfield Armory Hellcat, SIG P365, and Glock 43. It’s a double-column, compact 9mm with a magazine capacity of 12+1 rounds. It has a 3.2-inch barrel and is just 6 inches in overall length. Height is 4.42 inches, and width is under an inch at 0.95 inches. Weight is 18.4 ounces unloaded.

The MAX-9 uses a glass-filled nylon frame with a one-piece steel fire control chassis. The slide and barrel are made from hardened steel with a black nitride finish. The pistol is striker-fired with a short, smooth trigger pull and a positive reset. It has both a manual thumb safety as well as an integrated trigger safety and an internal striker blocker. The MAX-9 has a fixed front sight and a drift-adjustable polymer rear sight. It even has a reversible magazine release for you lefties out there.

What’s New About the MAX-9

What’s new on the 3514 MAX-9 is that it comes with an optics-ready slide. It will accept a J Point sight or a Shield pattern micro red dot. The MAX-9 is designed to co-witness with those format sights. Additionally, it has updated slide serrations, as well as a slightly reduced height for better concealability.

Maybe the best thing is that even though it has updated features, it comes in at a new, lower price. MSRP is just $299.00. It ships with one E-Nickel Teflon-coated magazine. One mag is kind of lame these days, honestly, but I guess that helps bring the price just under that $300 barrier. Still, it’s got a lot of great features, and it is hard to argue with that price for an American-made handgun with Ruger’s commitment to customer service.

Ruger 3514 MAX-9 Specs

Capacity12+1
Slide MaterialThrough-Hardened Alloy Steel
Slide FinishBlack Nitride
Slide Width0.95 inch
Manual SafetyYes
Grip FrameHigh-Performance, Glass-Filled Nylon
FeatureOptic Ready
Barrel MaterialAlloy Steel
Barrel FinishBlack Nitride
Barrel Length3.20 inch
Front SightFixed
Rear SightDrift-Adjustable Polymer
Magazines IncludedOne, 12-Round
Overall Length6 inches
Weight18.4 ounces
Height4.42 inches
Grooves6
Twist1:10″ RH
MSRP$299.00

The Unusual Firearms of French Police Forces

The police forces of France use some weird guns. Don’t get me wrong, they use some fairly standard rifles, handguns, submachine guns, and shotguns. We see G36s, Glocks, Remington 870s, and similar guns. Yet, for some reason, various French police forces have adopted some odd and unexpected firearms for police work. They aren’t bad, but they are certainly not what we expect to see in the hands of modern, Western police forces.

Molot VEPR Shotgun

The elite police force known as RAID has been seen carrying the Molot VEPR 12. This is a short-barreled model with what appears to be an eight-round magazine. Semi-automatic, magazine-fed shotguns are not a common police weapon, but what takes it over the top is the fact that it’s an AK platform shotgun.

It’s rare you see non-Warsaw Pact countries use AK-pattern anything, but it’s even rarer to see police forces use AK platforms. If I had to use an AK-pattern shotgun, I would also pick the VEPR. It has some advantages: it’s easy to shoot, quick to reload, and offers the power of a 12-gauge, which is still tough to beat even in 2025.

KelTec KSG

Since we are already discussing RAID and weird shotguns, we might as well pivot to their use of the KSG. The KelTec KSG is a pump-action bullpup shotgun with two magazine tubes. It can hold up to 15 rounds of 12-gauge. It’s an oddball from a company famous for making oddballs. KelTec has never been a company that modern military or police forces typically purchase guns from. Their innovative designs can occasionally come at the cost of less-than-perfect quality control.

The KSG has shown significant improvement throughout its lifespan. It’s still an oddity to see in police service, especially with a unit as elite as RAID. The KSG does offer some benefits with its expanded capacity and overall short length. For door breaching or less-lethal use, it fills a niche well. Breachers could load one tube with breaching rounds and another with buckshot and have a potent entry weapon.

BREN 2 (In 7.62x39mm)

French police adopting the BREN 2 isn’t that odd. They utilize a variety of European weapons, including the G36 and 416 series. What is odd is the adoption of the BREN 2 in 7.62x39mm. Much like the Molot VEPR, this cartridge is not often seen outside of former Warsaw Pact countries. The French also heavily use the 5.56 cartridge.

The GIGN adopted the weapon after running into terrorists using plate carriers. Their justification is that the 7.62x39mm offered better armor-piercing capability, but I don’t think that’s true. It is better for intermediate barriers, but unless the French have a special armor-piercing 7.62x39mm cartridge, I don’t think it offers any armor-piercing advantages.

Mousqueton AMDA French Mini 14

The Mousqueton AMD is, to be honest, painfully normal and downright boring, but its story and origin are fascinating. In the late 1970s, the French interior police forces were looking to replace their aging MAT-49 submachine guns. They didn’t want shotguns and saw the writing on the wall: semi-automatic, intermediate caliber rifles were the future. However, the French didn’t want to “spook the French,” so they wanted something that didn’t look tactical.

They settled on one of the few options, the Ruger Mini-14. They created a contract with Ruger and adopted the Mini-14, calling it the Mousqueton AMD. The rifles were used by border police, prison officers, riot control, and the GIGN. While the French no longer mind tactical rifles, the Mousqueton AMD remains in service with the French police.

Manurhin MR 73

Revolvers are pretty damn cool, but it’s rare to see any modern police force wield revolvers. The French decided that the six-gun still rules, and the GIGN, RAID, and others field the Manurhin MR 73 revolver. Its use became so famous amongst the GIGN that it’s become a symbol of the unit. The Manurhin MR 73 is an exceptionally well-made revolver designed for exceptional accuracy.

The guns use an adjustable trigger that doesn’t affect the hammer and detract from reliable ignition. This is accomplished via a separate flat spring for the trigger, separate from the mainspring. The second spring uses a roller to ensure smoothness and creates a complicated and expensive revolver. Approximately 12 hours of hand fitting are needed to make a Manurhin MR 73.

The French Keep It Weird

I’m a little jealous of the French police forces. In America, it’s all ARs, 870s, and Glocks. It’s boring. The French keep things fresh with weird shotguns, weird calibers, and kick-ass revolvers. Maybe we can learn a thing or two from the French.

Mount Up!: Reptilia’s AUS Scope Mounts 

Reptilia AUS Mount

There are many great one-piece premium scope mounts on the market, and Reptilia’s AUS scope mounts are arguably a product line that might capture the attention of sophisticated tactical rifle shooters.

Reptilia AUS mounts are relatively lightweight, minimalist, and designed for maximum rigidity. AUS mounts reflect this both in their functional shape and the manner in which they employ different types of Torx mounting hardware. Reptilia even offers an ultra-short version of the AUS to accommodate specialty LPVOs (think Vortex AMG).  

Reptilia AUS Scope Mount Overview 

AUS Reptilia

AUS mounts are machined from 7075-T6 aluminum. They’re Type III, Class 2 hardcoat anodized, too. Like virtually all other tactical mounts, these clamp over M1913 Picatinny scope bases. Reptilia offers AUS scope mounts with three different ring diameters that accommodate the most common tactical riflescope and LPVO main tube diameters: 30 mm, 34 mm, and 35 mm–Leupold Mark 5HD shooters take note! 

Because AUS mounts are intended to be paired with flat-top AR-pattern carbine rifles (or similar weapons), Reptilia manufactures these mounts with industry-standard heights of 1.54 inches and 1.93 inches. Beyond the 1.54 and 1.93 mount heights, AUS mounts are available with a 1.70-inch height, which represents a happy medium between 1.54 and 1.93 inches. 

Part of the AUS’s minimalist design includes the omission of the typical ½ inch hex nut that clamps to the base, something that’s seen on many optics. ½ hex nuts work wonderfully and provide more than adequate clamping strength between the scope base and the bottom of the mount. Their only downside is that the exposed nuts tend to somewhat protrude and may be liable to snag or drag on gear.

Reptilia’s slick solution is to eschew the nut-and-clamp array and instead use Torx T-20 screws under spring tension with slick clamps made from nitrided steel. Torqued to the correct value of 45-inch pounds, the pair of these low-profile clamps does a fine job at securing the mount and optic to the weapon. Torx T-15 screws secure optics to the rings.  

Hands-On Experience So Far

Close-up of a working police officer’s duty AR-15 with a Nightforce ATACR LPVO mounted on a Reptilia AUS mount sporting a Reptilia AUS offset mount with an Aimpoint ACRO P-2.

 

To date, I’ve actually mounted two different LPVOs to two different Reptilia AUS mounts. The first was a Kahles K16i to an all-black 1.54-inch tall AUS 30mm mount; I did this for a friend. Most recently, I mated EOTech’s newest VUDU 1-10 daylight-bright LPVO to a flat dark earth anodized 34mm 1.54-inch AUS mount. 

While mounting either the Kahles or the EOTech to their respective Reptilia AUS mounts, I couldn’t help but notice the mounts’ fit and finish. The very high quality of Reptilia’s anodizing was apparent on both occasions. I also had zero issues in securing these LPVOs to their respective rings. Reptilia even includes a handy extended-length Torx T-15 bit, which is extremely handy to keep on hand. Most scope ring screws are T-15 after all. 

Originally, I was waiting on the new IWI Zion-25 Z25AST16308 16-inch .308 Winchester carbine to get here for review. I’m planning on sticking the Reptilia AUS and EOTech VUDU on top of that. Alas, that rifle isn’t here yet. In the meantime, I’ve found other relevant rifles that could benefit this mount-and-optic combo.

Mounting The AUS To A Scout Rifle

I recently reviewed the Savage 110 Magpul Scout-Rifle for a different publication and made the decision to add the EOTech LPVO cradled in the Reptilia AUS mount. Since I’m due to review this daylight-bright EOTech VUDU 1-10 itself, the diversity of experience by mounting it on different types of rifles is a good thing.

Scout rifles historically used long eye relief scopes. Their mission is to be handy and able to engage targets in front of the muzzle and out to 500 yards. So, mounting a cutting-edge 1-10 LPVO with a relevant reticle should also conform to the original spirit of the scout rifle.   

So far, I’ve shot a little over 100 rounds of 6.5mm Creedmoor through the Savage 110 Magpul Scout Rifle. Once mounted and installed, scope mounts are passive pieces of kit. This is why it’s important for the end-user to torque everything properly. And it’s also why attention to detail and QC standards matter during the manufacturing process. I don’t have any complaints about the Reptilia AUS mount doing its actual thing so far.

Due to the relationship between the extended Picatinny scope base that Savage includes on the 110 Magpul Scout and the Magpul Hunter stock it’s bedded to, the 1.54-inch AUS mount works perfectly. I did have to remove the rifle’s peep sight so it wouldn’t clash with the rear-end of the VUDU while also ensuring the eye-relief was correct. (Perhaps a taller mount would have cleared the top of the rear-sight assembly.)

Keep in mind that in the spirit of scout-rifle tradition, the Savage 110 Magpul Scout is “optics-ready” for a long-eye relief scope and includes the requisite front-and-rear iron sights.

To Be Continued In Part 2

Ruger Purchases Anderson Manufacturing

A rumor has been circulating for a while about the closure of Anderson Manufacturing, makers of the popular “poverty pony” AR-15s. It turns out that the rumors were right, and we now know that Ruger has purchased their assets. It may be the end of the road for Anderson and their economical AR’s, but it’s not the end for the facility or their employees.

Ruger Announces Anderson Manufacturing Purchase

On July 1, 2025, Ruger sent out a press release announcing the purchase of Anderson Manufacturing. While this is disappointing news to fans of the Anderson brand, the story has a happier ending than that of some other firearm companies that have gone out of business. While Ruger doesn’t intend to keep the Anderson brand alive, they do plan to utilize their manufacturing capabilities. They’re planning on keeping the Anderson employees onboard as well, which is great news for them and the community.

Ruger’s press release says that the acquisition of Anderson is a strategic purchase that includes their manufacturing facility and machinery. They also emphasize the importance of Anderson’s skilled and experienced workforce. The plan is to use Anderson’s capabilities to strengthen Ruger’s manufacturing and production capabilities and expand the existing Ruger line of products.

Anderson’s Hebron, Kentucky, location is already in a firearms-friendly region, which is a bonus in today’s political climate. It’s also an area that’s already tooled for the production of firearms and associated aftermarket parts. That means there’s a ready supply chain for parts already in place.

“This acquisition is an incredible opportunity to advance our long-term strategy and expand Ruger’s capacity,” said Todd Seyfert, President and CEO of Ruger. “We’re excited to welcome members from the talented team at Anderson Manufacturing and leverage their knowledge and infrastructure to better serve our customers. This move reinforces Ruger’s position as a leader in the industry, and reiterates my focus on continued growth, even as others scale back.”

Anderson Manufacturing Statement

Here’s what Anderson had to say about the sale on their website and social media feeds. While Ruger keeping the factory open and the employees onboard is a good thing, the Anderson release does note that Anderson warranty service will be discontinued.

Customers and Industry Partners,

For nearly 70 years, Anderson Manufacturing proudly operated as a family-owned, Kentucky-based company built on excellence, integrity, and a deep commitment to our values—especially the protection of Second Amendment rights.

Over time, we became a trusted manufacturer of 100% American-made firearms, parts, and accessories. We consistently upheld ISO 9001 standards and built a reputation for delivering quality products at a fair price.

After careful consideration, we made the difficult decision to sell the company and close this chapter of our story. With the sale now complete, the Anderson brand has been discontinued and Anderson products will no longer be offered. As a result, warranty services on Anderson firearms, parts, and accessories are no longer available.

Your support and loyalty meant everything to us; it was truly an honor to serve you.

Thank you,

The Anderson Manufacturing Team

For more information on the Ruger acquisition of Anderson Manufacturing, check out the full press release on Ruger.com.

The Non-Lethal Pepperball TRP Makes a Serious Impact!

There are people who feel comfortable using a gun as a self-defense option, and then there are those who do not. One choice that falls directly in the middle of these two extremes is the Pepperball TRP (Tactical Response Pistol). This non-lethal weapon offers the handling and precision of a pistol, but with a non-lethal irritant as its primary ammo.

With a TRP in hand from the good people at Pepperball, I explored and tested every aspect of this weapon inside and out. Did it hit its mark or fall flat as a viable self-defense option? Read on for the detailed dissection of this handgun that literally spits fire.

Overall look and feel

The Pepperball TRP is highly comparable to an average semi-automatic handgun in both design and feel. At just less than two pounds, it’s relatively lightweight for a comfortable carry. The pistol exhibited Pepperball’s signature yellow accents against the weapon’s black colored handle, trigger, and sights.

The TRP felt solid within my grip, with it being naturally top-heavy without a magazine inserted into its glass-filled nylon grip handle. An integrated cross-bolt safety was easily within finger reach and ideal for keeping the unit safe and secure until use.

The Ready-To-Defend kit that featured the TRP pistol also included two magazines, along with a full instruction manual. I also received one set of six Live-X projectiles and one set of six inert projectiles for practicing my shooting skills. A package of ten CO2 cartridges is included, which is the “power” behind the Pepperball pistol.

Getting it ready to fire

Each magazine holds six projectiles. I loaded both, one with Live-X ammo and the other with inert projectiles. The spheres were simple to load and were held securely in place under the tension of an interior spring.

The CO2 cartridges also needed to be added to the magazines in a compartment that was positioned just behind the lined-up ammo balls. The screw-like tension knob holds the cartridges in place as they fit into the allocated molded compartment. My model of the Pepperball TRP, prior to firing, needed the CO2 cartridge to be punctured, and this knob accomplished that task.

It should go without saying that a person should start practicing first with the inert projectiles to get the feel of the weapon. This prevents any mishaps or accidental clouds of irritant nearby caused by misjudging distance or impact diameter.

Ease of use

Now is where the fun part came into play with the actual firing of the Pepperball TRP. With the safety off and in a location far from others, I was able to test this weapon’s speed, distance, and overall effectiveness. I took aim at my plywood target, positioned about sixty feet away, and squeezed the trigger.

What immediately took me by surprise was the lack of any recoil. Though I knew this would occur, just having a pistol in hand, subconsciously I expected some sort of physical reaction when fired.

Explosive impact

My shot left the pistol with incredible speed and hit the target far faster than I would have guessed. Though my aim was off a bit, the sphere burst on impact, and a white cloud formed around the target. After a few adjustments with my aim, I fired again and again.

Each shot hit the board with a distinctive pop, indicating each ammo ball had some serious force behind it. I can only imagine that an attacker would certainly feel these shots when hit at close distance (though the effective range is an amazing 150 feet).  

Self-Defense thoughts

I turned my attention to the practicality of this weapon for self-defense. I found the long-range accuracy to be a huge asset. Being able to stop an assailant before they come close enough to strike you is a best-case scenario. Additionally, I concluded that even if a person’s aim is off even by a few feet, the high velocity impact of the Pepperball TRP nearby would still be highly effective to cause debilitating effects upon him or her.

Finally, this weapon is perfect for anyone not comfortable using a real firearm, whether they have physical, moral, or legal reservations. This is truly a non-lethal deterrent that’s easy to load and shoot effectively.

Final grade

The Pepperball TRP scored high marks from me in multiple categories. These included ease of use, practicality, and perceived effectiveness in a self-defense situation.

The only sticking point for some may be the initial price point of the weapon. Currently, the aforementioned kit retails for $329.95. Now, on the surface, this may be a bit hefty in price for some people. However, if you think about it as a long-term investment, to me, the price is justifiable.

After the initial cost, your only expenses would be more ammo and CO2 cartridges. Not too bad at all for an effective means of defense. I highly recommend this non-lethal weapon as it incapacitates effectively from a safe and secure distance.

Rex Applegate and His Mexico Rig: A Deeper Look

As a teenager, I hunted down gun magazines and consumed as much of them as I could: Guns and Ammo, Soldier of Fortune, Handguns, and more. I’ve forgotten most of them, and most are out of business now. As a kid who consumed this media, I was familiar with names like Sykes, Fairbairn, and Rex Applegate. I read Kill or Get Killed and thought I knew a fair bit about the man—that is, until recently, when I saw Applegate’s Mexico Rig.

This odd holster design threw me for a loop. I had never seen such a thing. The best and shortest way I could describe it is that it’s a shoulder holster without a shoulder strap. It connects to the belt but pushes your gun high enough to conceal it under your shoulder. Applegate’s Mexico Rig sent me on a Google odyssey to find anything and everything I could about the holster.

Applegate’s Mexico Rig – The Truth

As the name suggests, Applegate used the Mexico Rig while in Mexico. He lived and worked there for 15 years after World War II. He owned a small sporting goods business and consulted with the Mexican Government. Applegate was even made an Honorary General. He wore this rig with an untucked, open shirt, which was the style of the time and area.

(Mob Guns)

The Mexico Rig was a S.D. Myres Detective Wonder. As the name implies, the rig was produced for plainclothes police as a concealment option. The idea was to simulate a shoulder holster but to eliminate the uncomfortable nature of shoulder holsters. Shoulder holsters have improved drastically, but I imagine in the ’40s and ’50s, they were a real pain.

According to the S.D. Myres catalog, it cost five dollars and was made only for two-inch revolvers. A pair of loops secured it to the belt, and the heavy-duty paddle held it up and under the arm. The barrel pointed up, which was not uncommon for shoulder rigs of that era. These days, we are a little more safety-minded and don’t want to draw and handle a gun pointed at our body.

Purdy Holsters

This setup does allow for either hand to easily draw the gun, and you can reach under a closed shirt and draw. It still wouldn’t be my preference. From what we know, the Applegate Mexico Rig was worn daily by Applegate. He was a concealed carry enthusiast before that was a popular thing to be.

His rig carried a S&W Lemon Squeezer, also known as the Safety Hammerless, in .38 S&W. A double-action revolver with a grip safety would make me feel a little better about pointing the gun at my arm.

Applegate and The Mexico Rig in Action

Applegate was carrying his Safety Hammerless in the S.D. Myres Detective Wonder one fateful night in Mexico. He was at dinner with a Mexican soldier, likely a friend and someone he advised. As they ate, a man burst into the restaurant carrying a machete. He charged Rex Applegate and the Mexican soldier.

Of all the people to seemingly randomly attack, Rex Applegate has to be the worst. Rex quickly drew his Safety Hammerless and fired all five rounds, landing five hits. The Mexican soldier also drew his .45 ACP and lent some 230-grain FMJs to the fray. The machete-wielding attacker was killed on the spot.

The reason behind the attack is unknown. The Mexico Rig certainly served Applegate well in this scenario. Most accounts said he was the first to fire, meaning he drew from concealment faster than the soldier drew from the waist. A trained man with a good holster can be quite fast.

The Mexico Rig Today

Leather expert Karla Van Horne produced The Detective Wonder rig at Purdy Gear for a number of years, but it’s no longer listed on her website. Original S.D. Myres variants are exceedingly rare and difficult to find. I would love to have one purely for the vibes. I’m also considering either having one made or maybe creating a more modern variant. I guess I’ll finally learn how Kydex works!

Easy Preps – Simple Things Anyone Can Do

Easy Preps

Prepping can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re just starting the journey. It seems like there are so many skills to learn, so many supplies to purchase, and so little time to do it all. Instead of throwing in the towel, consider adding some of these easy preps to your plans.

Water Storage

This is an easy prep anyone can do. Save 2L soda bottles, juice bottles, and the like. Wash and rinse them well, then fill them with clean water. Leave about two inches of headspace at the top, then close them up. Use them to fill empty space in your freezer. The headspace in the bottles will prevent them from bursting as the water freezes.

Storing bottles this way accomplishes several things. It helps your freezer run more efficiently, as it won’t need to cool empty space. If the power goes out, the ice in those bottles will help keep the contents cold longer. In an extended situation, as the ice melts, you’ll have clean water to drink and use for food prep, without requiring you to find extra space somewhere to store it.

Stop Doomscrolling and Start Learning

Easy Preps - stop doomscrolling
Most of us spend far more time than is healthy surfing social media, comparing our lives to someone else’s greatest hits.

Most of us spend far too much time mindlessly surfing through social media. Instead, commit to being more intentional with at least some of that time. Check out informative videos or articles, or, *gasp*, read a book.

What works for some people is to devote 15-30 minutes each morning to personal education. My wife likes to listen to podcasts or YouTube videos while she does her morning stretches. I’ll often have a book, magazine, or blog in front of me while I’m eating breakfast. We both read before bed, too.

Here are a few YouTube channels you should check out:

Outdoor Boys 

Nature Reliance 

The Prepared Wanderer 

The Urban Prepper 

Go for a Walk

Physical fitness is important. The healthier you are, the better able you are to handle stressful situations. Listen, we all have limitations, impairments, and other things that we feel hold us back. The important thing is to learn ways to adapt.

You might not be able to walk five miles. Hell, maybe a mile isn’t doable. Maybe the best you can do is to the mailbox and back. You’re still lapping the guy who hasn’t gotten off the couch. Remember this – last place is still a place.

Cook More Often

Easy Preps - scratch cooking
Cooking nourishes the body, mind, and soul. It’s a privilege to prepare food for your loved ones.

This is an easy prep that has multiple benefits. When was the last time you cooked a full meal? I don’t mean dumping a box of something into the air fryer while you’re heating up frozen veggies on the stove. I mean actually cooking from scratch. For some of you, this is probably routine. For many others, though, it’s almost a foreign concept.

The more skill and experience you have with scratch cooking, the better you’ll be able to make use of foods you have socked away for emergencies. Pick out a few favorite foods and look up recipes on how to make them, then get to it. The best part is you’ll likely end up saving money in the long run, as cooking from scratch tends to be cheaper than eating out.

3 Ways to Save When Buying Guns, Ammo, and More

Guns are expensive, ammo is expensive, optics are expensive—everything is expensive! Hell, a Subway sub cost me like 15 bucks today! It’s ridiculous, but I have a dopamine addiction to feed and a lot of shooting to do. How do I do it affordably? I might not be the best shooter, but I know how to stretch a dollar when it comes to shooting. I’d be broke if I didn’t.

With that in mind, I want to share with you the three tips I rely on most to save some cold, hard cash when shopping for guns, ammo, and the like.

Memberships Save Money

I’m using the term “membership” a little loosely here, as it encompasses a wide variety of things you could consider a membership. First, I have a dedicated email for promotional offers from websites I like and trust. I get Daily Deals from Palmetto State Armory, updates from Bucking Horse Outpost, and more. These deals get a quick look and sometimes a quick purchase.

Another “membership” I believe in is store credit cards when they are worth it. I’m also a responsible credit card user and never use credit cards as a temporary loan. For example, I use the Academy Credit Card to get 5% off my purchases, and that’s where I get most of my 9mm ammo.

Combine that with a website membership, and I get random coupons and alerts for discounts. Recently, I got 15% off a thousand rounds of 9mm because of the credit card bonus and a temporary vets discount.

Other memberships include signing up for stuff like GovX if you qualify, or Expert Voice, or similar websites. It’s not always a great discount, but there are hidden treats and great sales. Military members and veterans should also sign up for the Exchange; sometimes, they do random ammo sales.

Police Trade-Ins

When you hear the term “police trade-in,” you likely picture old Gen 3 S&Ws, beat-up 870s, and carry-handle AR-15s. That’s not the case right now. Currently, there is a huge shift to optics-ready guns amongst police forces and a slight sales slump. What we are seeing are Glock Gen 5 17s for $349.99, and Gen 3 and Gen 4 models for even less.

Police trade-in guns can be fantastic, especially right now. I’m seeing a ton of 870 Police Magnums, which are in fantastic shape because, for the last two decades, the AR has taken over as the dominant police long gun. These are barely used, and kept-in-the-armory type guns.

Additionally, police trade-in ammo is a thing. I got 500 rounds of .38 Special for 99 bucks because it was a mixed police trade-in. I got a ton of Federal Tactical slugs for an excellent price I can’t recall, also police trade-ins. Bucking Horse Outpost is great for police trade-in ammo.

Estate Sales

My hidden secret to getting cheap guns and cheap ammo is estate sales and auctions. When I go to these sales, I’m often the only one interested in guns and ammo. I don’t meet much resistance, and I can score insane deals. I got a beautiful M1 Garand made in the 1950s for $700; I got 500 rounds of .45 ACP for 60 bucks once.

One time, a gentleman who was a reloader passed away, and he had a ton of ammo for sale. Reloads can be iffy, but I was able to look through the notes and details of the man’s work, and he was detail-oriented. Every load had a card with load data and even performance details. I was able to get piles of .44 Special, .45 ACP, .38 Special, .32 ACP, and more for pennies on the dollar.

Auctions can be trickier, but also fantastic due to federal law. A lot of resellers attend auctions, but resellers don’t have FFLs, so those who are legally smart stay away from guns. That eliminates most firearm competition. Not always, and rural areas tend to be a little harder to bid in, but discounts and bargains can be found!

My Tricks to Save

Saving money isn’t always easy in the gun world, especially with ammo. However, with a little planning and preparation, you can save a lot. It takes effort, and you have to judge what your time is worth. As a gun writer and all-around gun nerd, I’m willing to put in the work, but it might not be for everyone. At the very least, I can share my tricks with you.

What’s Cooking?: Titanium Camp Grills That Rock!

The grill has enough room for a kettle and kabobs. There is enough room for a frying pan and a kettle on the Granite Grill.

Summer grilling on a portable grill is where simplicity meets flavor—and it doesn’t get much better than that. Whether you’re camping, cooking over a bonfire, or day hiking, here are two titanium camp grills that rock!

We had four hungry guys on the Adirondacks trip, and the Streamside Travelers Grill delivered.

Purcell Trench Titanium Camp Grills

Handmade in the USA, these ultralight grills are TIG-welded from stainless steel or titanium. Models like the Packers Grill or Travelers Grill are compact, stable, and built for direct fire cooking. They’re legless for better fire control and pack down fast.

The Streamside Travelers Grill is a minimalist’s dream with just enough grit to handle real campfire cooking. It utilizes the same 17-inch x 5.5-inch tapered frame as the standard Travelers Grill. However, it replaces the tubular stays with a full sheet of expanded stainless steel. That mesh surface makes it ideal for grilling smaller items, such as fish, vegetables, or even polenta cakes, without losing them to the flames.

Purcell Trench considers this the weakest of their titanium camp grills. Yet, it supports a 10-inch Lodge cast iron Dutch oven full of liquid.

The Streamside Travelers Grill cooked ham steak on a multi-day trip in the woods.

At just 5 oz (142 g), it’s light enough to disappear in your pack. However, it is strong enough to support all but the largest pots and pans. It’s TIG-welded from American-made stainless steel tubing. The frame has smooth edges and rapid cooling for quick pack-up. The expanded metal may warp slightly when subjected to high heat. Nonetheless, it generally returns to its original shape as it cools.

If you appreciate fire control and the versatility of direct heat, this grill is calling your name. It’s like Purcell Trench crafted the grill for someone who knows their way around a coal bed!

MSRP: $84

Titanium Grilling in the Adirondacks

I spent the last week of June in a remote part of the Adirondacks with three good friends. They were all seasoned outdoorsmen, one of whom was recently featured here on GAT Daily, Lt. Mike Lychock. It was his grill that we used on this camp trip. It was that hidden gem you didn’t know you needed, but it stood out. 

We were in the presence of great, persistent fishermen on this trip who kept us well fed. The Streamside Travelers Grill was perfect for grilling trout.

We used the grill to cook directly over a low flame and coals. It seemed natural to prop it between two logs that were about bicep-thick. We used it with frying pans, pots, ham steak, SPAM-ish meat, and fresh trout. However, titanium camp grills pull double duty. They also handle the role of hot coal raking and scooting hot logs in the fire. 

Gear for the Wild

At first glance, Rewild Gear had me scratching my head about what exactly they were all about. They offer a lineup that includes a 4-inch fixed blade knife, a grill, telescopic pocket bellows, a ferrocerium rod, and a food utensil. Additionally, they feature a stylish trucker’s cap and pyro balls!

It didn’t take long to realize that this outdoor gear company is all about adventure. I quickly contacted David to get the scoop, and he painted a vibrant picture of the brand and its mission. They provide gear that not only works together but also covers all the essential camp must-haves. Then came the moment of truth—the packages arrived, and I was ready for action!

The titanium Granite Grill is compact and ultralight, offering a durable cooking surface for meals over a fire in the wilderness, with warp-free grilling and a lifetime warranty.

Granite Titanium Camp Grill 

Introducing the Granite Grill: your new go-to campfire companion that’s as light as a feather—just under 12 oz and only 0.2 inches thick! This titanium marvel measures 18 inches in length and 7 inches in width. It boasts a clever, patent-pending flat design that features two cooking sections tailored to your culinary needs. 

The center section features cross tubing spaced ½ inch apart. This area is ideal for delicate vegetables and smaller cuts of meat that require a little extra care. Meanwhile, Rewild Gear made the outer tubing sections spaced 1 inch apart. These sections provide ample room for larger items, such as brats or fish fillets, to sizzle to perfection.

And don’t worry about carrying it around—the Granite Grill comes with a handy canvas sheath that not only keeps your gear clean from grill debris but also adds a mere 4.5 ounces to your load. This brings the total weight to a mere 16.5 ounces. Now that’s what we call a grilling game-changer. This gem is truly one of the better titanium camp grills that rocks!

MSRP: $99

Granite Grill Cookout

I tested this bad boy in the cooler autumn months. I used two large rocks to hold up the Granite Grill for boiling water and frying in a carbon steel skillet. Naturally, Filipino chicken BBQ was one of the first meals I made on the grill. There was ample room to cook four kabobs. I was also able to heat the Uberleben kettle for a warm drink in the brisk autumn air. 

The Granite Grill is a superb 3-in-1 marvel! It’s sturdy and resists warping, cools down quickly, and even helps you move coals. Those tight squares are tailor-made for dedicating food to the fire gods. Meanwhile, the outer spaces perfectly accommodate your pots, pans, and anything else that needs a little breathing room. 

The grill has enough room for a kettle and kabobs. There is enough room for a frying pan and a kettle on the Granite Grill.

Check out these two stellar titanium camp grills—you can’t go wrong with either! 

What’s the Difference Between a Good Gun and a Bad Gun?

I’ve been reviewing firearms for a few years, and for a long time, I’ve tried to come up with what makes a “bad” gun versus a “good” gun. That’s a tough question to answer, with an absolute ton of variables. A gun designed for competition might not be good for concealed carry. Bird hunters aren’t using long-range rifles for quail. If we isolate guns based on the task they are designed to achieve, it gets easier to say what’s good and what’s bad.

We could say a good gun is ergonomic, accurate, controllable, and appropriate for the task it’s trying to accomplish. A bad gun would be the opposite: unreliable, not ergonomic, hard to control, etc. That’s the way I looked at it for years, but I’ve walked back on that. A bad gun is easy to define, but I think I was too lenient on what constituted a good gun. That’s the question I’ve been asking, and I’m trying to answer today.

Is There a Difference Between a Good Gun and a Bad Gun?

A gun meeting baseline expectations shouldn’t be considered good or exceptional. It doesn’t need to be, and some just aren’t. Some guns are just fine. I will say there are other factors than a gun’s performance that can make it a good gun. Let’s look at the Taurus G3 series.

The G3 is fine. It’s accurate, reliable, ergonomic, and easy to shoot. Compared to a lot of guns, it would be considered fine. Fine isn’t bad, but it’s not exceptional. The G3 becomes a good gun when we look at its price point. It’s a $250-ish gun that’s optics-ready. We can be more specific and say it’s a good budget gun, but the point stands: it’s a good gun.

On the flip side, a good gun can lose its status due to an absurd price point. Christensen Arms makes great guns. I’d argue most of their catalog is expensive but still good. Then you get to the CA9mm, a direct blowback PCC that takes Glock mags. I’m sure it’s reliable, accurate, and ergonomic, but holy hell, it’s $1,700.

Sometimes, a gun can be a good gun because it excels in a specific category. Let’s look at something like Glock. The Glock 17, 19, or any Glock hits the good gun market because it’s accurate, ergonomic, controllable, but also exceptionally reliable and simple. Glocks work—that’s what they do, and that’s why they are good guns.

What Makes a Fine Gun?

The perfect definition of a fine gun to me is the S&W 3rd Gen guns. People like them, but I don’t think they are good guns, nor are they bad guns. They have some problems: they are heavy, those heavy slides create snappy recoil, the magazine safety is stupid, and the slide-mounted safety is not very ergonomic.

In addition, they were also expensive guns in their era and are only getting pricier now. They are fine, but even when produced, they lagged behind other guns. S&W’s 3rd Gen guns never did anything exceptionally well and fall into that “fine” paradigm.

I can say the same about the Beretta 9000. It’s fine; it’s odd ergonomically, but it has the Beretta reliability, low recoil, and accuracy you expect. However, it’s not a good gun. It’s just fine.

What’s a Bad Gun?

That’s easy: anything that seriously sucks in all the categories a gun performs in. The Remington R51 is a bad gun. The Zip 22LR is a bad gun. Anything that can’t at least get “Cs” in class is a bad gun. Typically, bad guns seem few and far between, but that’s because they aren’t produced for very long. Plenty of bad guns exist, but they tend to fade out of our collective memory.

Why Is This Important?

I’ve editorialized a variety of guns I think are good, fine, and bad. Why does this matter? From a consumer perspective, I feel like the gun community can be all or nothing. It’s either the next coming of John Moses Browning, or it fires out of battery and should be thrown in the ocean to make reefs. (Side note: let’s not arm the sharks.)

Our culture of “it can only be good or bad” is not serving people well, and is a part of the culture we should get rid of. Some guns can be fine; some can be exceptional. As gun writers, we shouldn’t call guns that are fine “good.” With that in mind, the greater gun culture should be more comfortable with calling something fine, be it a gun, an optic, a weapon light, or beyond.

As a gun writer, I like a bad gun. It’s a cheap and short review. I like a good gun because I enjoy shooting it, but a fine gun is just boring. Most good guns are good guns, but some are just fine, and we should embrace that.

Gen 2 Bravo-6 – The Latest from Bark River Knives

Gen 2 Bravo-6
Photo credit: Bark River Knives.

The Bravo 1 is the most popular knife in the Bark River Knives lineup. And for good reason. It’s hard-working, dependable, comfortable, and tough as hell. It spawned an entire series of knives, including the Bravo 1.25, Bravo 1.5, Bravo 2, Bravo III, and Bravo EDC, along with others. All share the same DNA, as well as the same dedication to the craft of knife making. The Gen 2 Bravo-6 is the newest iteration. It’s a brand-new model, and definitely worthy of the Bravo name.

The Bark River Knives Gen 2 Bravo-6

Bravo-6 Development

Mike Stewart, head honcho at Bark River Knives, had this to say about the creation of the Gen 2 Bravo-6:

“The Bravo Series of knives has been a backbone of our line for decades. It is also one of the most copied patterns in the Specialty Knife industry. Lots of custom makers and now even the Russians and the Chinese have made and are actively selling these patterns. It is time for a second generation of the Bravos.”

He and his team worked for over a year on the design. The goal was to create something that was even more secure and comfortable in the hand. At the same time, they wanted a more rugged feel, look, and function.

It’s important to note that while they are introducing a new look and feel to the Bravo line, there are no plans to discontinue anything in the existing lineup. This is strictly an addition, not a replacement.

For comparison, here is the Bravo 1 on top and the Bravo-6 on bottom.

Bravo 1
Photo credit: Bark River Knives.
Gen 2 Bravo-6 in crimson burlap micarta.
Photo credit: Bark River Knives.

Bravo-6 Specs

The Gen 2 Bravo-6 is 11.25 inches from end to end, with a 6.25-inch blade. The CPM 3V steel is 0.187-inch thick and hardened to 60 Rockwell. The knife has the Bark River standard convex edge and arrives keen as a razor.

As with all knives that come from the Bark River shop, there is a huge range in handle materials available, including numerous colors of micarta and G-10. This model marks the first time Bark River has used stainless steel flared tubes in their handles.

On this, Stewart said, “The flared tubes in the handles are 304 stainless steel. I wanted the look of those tubes to be a bit different than other companies that we see on the market. There is a countersink in the handle that they flair into.”

Photo credit: Jim Cobb.

The base weight of the Gen 2 Bravo-6 is 10.54 ounces, but this can change slightly with different handle materials.

Each Gen 2 Bravo-6 comes with a leather belt sheath equipped with a snap and strap retention. The strap fits perfectly the first time, no stretching or breaking in required.

Photo credit: Jim Cobb.

Bravo-6 Performance

I’ve only played around a bit with it thus far, but I’m suitably impressed. It has a great balance and feels outstanding in hand. At nearly a foot overall, this isn’t a small knife, and most people probably won’t consider it for EDC. However, if you’re on the hunt for a good field knife, one that will help you clear a shooting lane as well as process what you harvest, the Gen 2 Bravo-6 just might be your huckleberry.

Gen 2 Bravo-6 in blue canvas micarta
Photo credit: Bark River Knives.

Find the Gen 2 Bravo-6 at DLT Trading and KnivesShipFree. The MSRP varies based on the handle material, but expect to see prices around $320 for base models in black canvas micarta, then going up from there for the higher-end materials.

The Pop Of Suppressor Use

Pop goes the weasel…and the suppressed gun. When you suppress a gun, you are likely to run into one or two distinct types of pops. We have port pop and first-round pop. Both can be noticeable to the suppressed user and be downright annoying as a suppressed shooter. As someone who has recently gotten into suppressed shooting, I can’t help but be annoyed by the various pops.

“Pop” Goes the Suppressor

I wanted to know what they were, what causes them, and whether they could be prevented. Since I went on this “pop journey,” I figured I could share my journey with you. Let’s look at first-round pop and port pop and see if we can get it popping.

Port Pop

The easiest way to prevent port pop is to just shoot a manually activated gun. Single shots, bolt-actions, and lever-actions are examples of guns that won’t have port pop. The port that pops is the ejection port. It’s most noticeable on firearms with enclosed ejection ports. Rifles, in particular, are loud and annoying, and can even ring your ears.

I’ve run into this with my ARs in 5.56, which I expect, but also in the diminutive .22LR CP33. Port pop is the sound of gas exiting the ejection port as you shoot. Suppressors can increase this noise due to additional backpressure, and they make it more noticeable since they’ve cut the noise from your muzzle.

Port pop is tough to fix in most guns. The AR can be tuned to reduce it, but that’s solely due to the AR’s popularity and its modularity. According to silencer expert Jay from Pew Science, there are a few ways to manage port pop. He suggests an adjustable gas block, a heavier buffer, or even lengthened cam paths like the LMT-E.

With other guns, like the CP33, it’s a bit tougher since the gun isn’t as modular. Anything you can do to delay the bolt from opening can help, but the ability to do so might be rare.

First Round Pop

The other pop you have to deal with is first-round pop. This noise originates at the end of your barrel, and hearing it will depend a lot on your caliber and cartridge. If you’re shooting some massive magnum round, you aren’t likely to notice first-round pop. You’re more likely to hear it if you’re shooting a .22LR or other subsonic, quiet cartridge.

This pop annoys me a lot less than port pop because it only happens once. What’s happening is that your suppressor is full of air. When you shoot your gun, that air, which is cold, meets hot unburnt powder and gas. These gases meet and move, creating a noise. After the first round, it’s not really a problem.

Discreet Ballistics has released something called the PopStop. This connects between your gun and suppressor and allows you to flush your can with carbon dioxide via mini containers. I don’t care too much about first-shot pop, but it’s great to have a solution for any problem.

The Pop

Pops are a normal part of suppressor use. It’s annoying, but it’s understandable. Some pops are easier to solve than others, depending on the platform. With a little effort, you can reduce the pop, but like the music, you’ll probably just learn to live with it.

Gear that Tags Along For the Ride!

We pack emergency kits and bugout bags and load our homes with survival gear. However, the odds are good that you may not have access to any of them if an unexpected crisis comes. In fact, you may have only what you’re physically carrying if you’re forced to flee. This could be a significant problem for you…unless you’re well-prepared ahead of time. On the market are numerous tools, mini pieces of gear, and survival items that can be carried on your body. The wearable gear varieties are both diverse and extensive, so now’s the time to create your own, on-the-go, emergency ensemble.

Wazoo Gear Viking Spark Necklace

This Viking Spark necklace is both aesthetically pleasing and highly practical, making it a must-wear for nearly every occasion. Utilizing antiqued mahogany leather, a uniquely patterned Novaculite stone, and a ceramic striker ten times harder than steel, you’ll have both a fire-starter and knife sharpener always within arm’s reach.

No two stones are exactly alike, offering you a one-of-a-kind piece of wearable gear that goes everywhere you do. Additionally, the integrated ferro rod can create flammable shaving or, when scraped quickly, throw sparks for optimal flame production. Best of all, Made-in-the-USA quality backs up this practical piece of neckwear.

MSRP: $65.00

Grim Workshop Dog Tag Necklace

No matter your field, interest, or emergency need, most likely, Grim Workshop will have a wearable gear dog tag for you. These tags offer heavy-duty reusable and re-attachable mini tools and gear that easily stack and travel on any style of necklace cordage or chain. Additionally, you can choose from fishing lures to lockpicks, from first aid to sewing, files, and signalers. The variety is great, and the quality is top tier.

Also, other incredible tools include a glow-in-the-dark tag for a nighttime light source, a fire-starter tag, and an arrowhead for in-the-field arrow construction. Finally, ball bearing chains and stackable silencers are available to complement the tags to create an instant go-anywhere tool cache.

MSRP: Starting at $9.50

Titan Survival Paracord Keychains (3-Pack)

You bring your keys just about everywhere, so why not include some needed survival gear? This keychain assortment offers a combination of multi-use paracord, an integrated ferro-rod, and a large belt hook for easy attachment to your belt loop or gear bag.

The interior strands of cordage include a twenty-five-pound test fishing line, waterproof waxed Jute fire-tinder, and 30 AWG utility wire. When in need of a fire, just scrape and strike the ferro-rod for a shower of 3,000-degree sparks that ignite awaiting tinder. Lastly, Titan shows how a simple keychain can be a whole lot more!

MSRP: $25.98

Wazoo Gear Cache Cap

Comfort, sun protection, and outdoor durability are only the tip of the iceberg when naming this cap’s ingenious features. Unseen by prying eyes, this Cache Cap offers six integrated “secret” pockets that can hold your small valuables, gear, and cards of all types. It offers four hook-and-loop closure pockets along with two narrow slot pockets that are virtually invisible to anyone around you.

Additionally, this wearable gear cap is designed to be both aesthetically pleasing and highly practical, with a cooling mesh interior, an anti-glare underbill, and an ultra-comfortable buttonless top. From hiding personal items to all-day wear comfort, the Cache cap has you covered!

MSRP: $36.00

Wazoo Gear Firecard Fire-Starter (3-Pack)  

If you carry your wallet, then you can carry these indispensable fire-starting cards. Designed to mimic the size and shape of a typical credit card, you can store multiple cards easily for on-the-spot fire creation, no matter where you are in the world. The cards are constructed of a highly flammable modified polymer and can be scraped into a pile as tinder or burned as a whole for a large flame on demand. Best of all, you can use the Firecards when wet in harsh outdoor conditions.

MSRP: $10.00

CRKT Pryma Tool

You won’t remember you’re carrying the Pryma until you need it! This keychain addition is ultra-lightweight and unobtrusive, yet provides for a plethora of necessary, everyday tasks. Use it for prying nails or scraping, breaking glass windows in emergencies, unscrewing or tightening fasteners, and finally cracking open that bottle of suds at the end of a hard day. This mini wonder offers so much in such a small footprint. Lightweight, highly durable, and versatile…what more do you need?

MSRP: $12.00

Wazoo Cache Belt

Need to carry an extra item or two, or ten? Now you can with the Wazoo Cache Belt. This incredible discreet pants-holder-upper offers a large storage area inside its durable folded webbing. A no-fail hook and loop closure secures your items, while the 300 Series stainless steel buckle keeps the belt securely in place around your waist.

Use this belt to hide money and valuables, needed survival gear, small photos, flash drives, or any small personal items. This useful piece of wearable gear is available in various sizes and colors. Best of all, the belt is hand-cut and sewn proudly in the USA.

MSRP: $70.00

CRKT Eat’ N Tool

Don’t underestimate your needs when it comes to eating on the go, as you may need some basic utensils to enjoy a quick meal. This amalgamation, named the Eat’ N Tool, offers a unique fork and spoon utensil, along with some traditional tools for projects along the way.

The “spork” design on one end is balanced by metric hex wrenches, twin flathead screwdrivers, and a convenient bottle opener for a fast drink when time is not on your side. The ultra-lightweight unit includes a carabiner for quick attachment to your belt loop or accompanying gear bag or pack.

MSRP: $9.99

The Lever-Action In World War I

Most martial use of lever-action rifles occurred around the American Civil War. The rifles were controversial in that era, but were beloved by troops, but seemingly disliked by Generals. Admittedly, lever-action rifles had a lot less range than your standard infantry rifle, but offered a much faster rate of fire.

Beyond the American Civil War, the lever-action served with the French in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870 and the Ottomans in the Russo-Turkish War of 1877.

You’d be right to assume that most martial use of lever actions stopped at the turn of the century when cartridge firearms and bolt actions became the norm. You’re mostly right, but judging by the title of this article, it’s clear they served well into the 20th century.

When the entire world goes to war, it’s not tough to assume there would be a shortage in arms, and lever actions were readily available as a stop-gap to fill roles and free up battle rifles. Let’s take a trip to the trenches to see how and which lever-actions served in WWI.

Winchester 1886

By 1914, the Winchester 1886 seemed ancient. We discovered and weaponized flight between 1886 and 1914! With that in mind, the 1886 was picked for a very specific role. The British purchased 50 of these rifles chambered in .45-90 Sharps and were fielded with incendiary ammunition.

The Brits fielded these rifles to shoot down German airships. The incendiary ammo would ignite the hydrogen gas and send the German airships to the ground in a fiery fashion. It was a fairly cheap and effective idea that wasn’t resource-intensive. These rifles were a stopgap until better anti-airship weapons could be developed.

Winchester 1892

Alongside those limited numbers of Winchester Model 1886s, the British government purchased 20,000 Winchester 1892 rifles in .44-40. These rifles were purchased for the Royal Navy to free up Lee-Enfield rifles for infantry forces. Predictably, the rifles were used to guard ships and to clear mines. The .44-40 should certainly be enough to detonate a mine, right?

Winchester 1894

Of all the lever-action rifles on this list, the Winchester 1894 was the most widely used during warfare. The British purchased 5,000 of these rifles in .30-30 to serve alongside the Win 1892s for Royal Navy use. They guarded ships and detonated mines alongside the 1892s.

The French purchased 15,100 Winchester 1894 rifles for military use. The lever-action rifles required the No.44A rear sight and sling swivels on the left side of the buttstock and barrel band so troops could carry them across their backs. These rifles were issued to motorcycle couriers, artillery troops, truck drivers, and balloon units.

The United States purchased 5,000 Winchester 1894s and 50,000 .30-30 rounds. These never left the United States and were issued to the United States Army Signal Corps to help protect the timber used to produce aircraft of the era.

Winchester 1895

The Russians were responsible for the largest military sale of lever-action rifles in the modern era. The Russians purchased 300,000 models of the 1895 for their military forces. The 1895 rifles were a bit different than your standard lever gun. They were designed to use standard Spitzer-style cartridges and used internal magazines instead of tubular magazines.

The Russian variants chambered the 7.62x54R cartridge, and the contract rifles were designed to accept Mosin-Nagant stripper clips and used Russian arshins for the rear sight. These rifles had long handguards and bayonet lugs to be modern military rifles. The rifle was extensively used during World War I, more so than any other lever-action rifle.

Savage Model 99

This article would have been called “The Winchesters of World War I” if it weren’t for the Savage Model 99. Like the Winchester Model 1895, the Model 99 was designed to use spitzer-style rounds. The Savage Model 99 used a rotary-type magazine, and they varied between internal and detachable depending on when the gun was produced.

To free up rifles for the war effort, the Montreal Home Guard adopted the Savage Model 99. This particular model was referred to as a musket. It was rifled, but “musket” was just the terminology used to describe the weapon due to its full military-style stock and handguard, along with a bayonet lug. They ordered 2,500, but seemingly only took delivery of 803. These were chambered in .303 Savage.

The Lever Actions Of World War I

World War I introduced the widespread use of tanks, machine guns, chemical weapons, bombers, and more. It’s an interesting contrast to see so many lever guns serving in industrialized warfare. While most were never on the front lines, it’s fascinating to know they were fielded.