Archive for February, 2008
Remington Introduces Core Lokt Ultra Bonded in .223
Posted by: | CommentsThe AR/.223 platform has become extremely popular in the past two decades. In the hunting realm, the .223 has been very popular with the varmint hunters. However, many people have felt the .223 cartridge is too small for hunting deer sized game. Remington is trying to change people’s minds.
Remington has introduced a .223 cartridge in their Core Lokt Ultra Bonded line of hunting ammunition. According to Remington, the Core Lokt Bonded bullet “…offers the unique combination of excellent accuracy, superb weight retention, and expansion with overall superior terminal results.”
Remington says the bullets retain up to 95% of their original bullet weight, and by using a progressively tapered jacket, the bullets expand reliably at “all practical” velocities. Expansion of up to twice the original bullet diameter is typical with this bullet design.
Whether deer hunters will embrace this round remains to be seen. However, Remington’s introduction of their Core Lokt Ultra Bonded bullet in a .223 loading expands the possibilities with this already versatile rifle cartridge.
TNT Green: New Varmint Ammo From Federal and CCI
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Federal Cartridge Company and CCI have introduced a new bullet design for varmint hunting: the TNT Green.
The TNT Green ammunition uses a totally lead free bullet that “couples explosive expansion with match-grade accuracy.” The ammunition uses non-toxic technology and appears to be a direct competitor for Barnes Bullets’ Varmint Grenade.
Federal and CCI state the ammunition should be on the shelves by spring 2008. Initially, the TNT Green ammo will be loaded for .222, .223, 22-250, and .22 WMR.
New AutoLock Matrix Holsters from Galco Gunleather
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Galco is bringing a new paddle holster to the market in the first quarter of 2008. Based on their popular Matrix line of paddle holsters, the new AutoLock holster securely locks the firearm into place without the use of straps or external snaps.
According to Scott Feck, the V.P. of Operations for Galco, a standard gripping motion releases the lock, allowing the wearer to present the weapon in a very smooth, fast process.
The AutoLock will be available for the Glock 26 and 27 models first, followed by the 3″ 1911, and various models of Sig Sauer pistols. Feck anticipates the AutoLock will be shipping for at least the 10 most popular handguns by the end of the year.
MSRP is expected to be in the low $30’s.
CZ USA’s VZ 58 Rifles
Posted by: | CommentsCZ-USA has begun importing the VZ 58 semi-auotmatic rifle into the USA. The rifle is chambered in the widely available 7.62×39 cartridge commonly associated with the SKS and AK-47 rifles. The VZ 58 looks like an AK-47 variant, but there are some significant differences.
“Everyone thinks it is an AK-variant,” said Agnus Hobdale of CZ-USA. “It is not an AK-variant.”
There are some significant differences between the AK-47 and the VZ 58. First, and perhaps most importantly, CZ-USA states that no AK parts are interchangable with the VZ rifles. Additional differences include:
- The VZ 58 has a milled receiver, not a stamped receiver typical to the AK-47.
- The VZ 58 bolt locks open after the last cartridge is fired.
- The VZ 58 is striker fired, not hammer fired.
- The VZ 58 has a larger ejection port.
CZ-USA also claims the VZ is easier to field strip, has a more natural point of aim, and a more ergonomic safety. While these are truly subjective, they do suggest several changes that may not be readily apparent until you handle one.
The VZ 58 comes in two styles. the Military Sporter is a semi-auto version of the current issue rifle to the troops of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. I features wood impregnated plastic stocks. The Tactical Sporter features a Zytel, thumbhole-type of stock.
Both VZ 58’s are available now and ship with a thirty round magazine and cleaning kit. The Military Sporter retails for $970, while the Tactical Sporter retails for $990. Additional 30 round CZ magazines are $39 each. CZ-USA says that the rifles are selling quickly.
The Dangers of Intervention: A Commentary by Evan Marshall
Posted by: | CommentsEvan Marshall is a retired Detroit PD police officer who spent 20 years going into harm’s way for total strangers. In his police service, Marshall worked on the street, as a homicide detective, and on the TAC unit. Outside of the law enforcement community, Marshall is known to most people as an author and firearms instructor.
Marshall wrote an editorial piece called “The Dangers of Intervention.” In this commentary he attempts to illustrate the very real dangers associated with intervening in situations you might observe. Marhsall’s observations about this deadly serious topic are blunt and accurate. Marshall’s article is well worth reading…twice.
2008 NRA Annual Meeting: May 15-18 in Louisville, KY
Posted by: | CommentsThe National Rifle Association Annual Meeting is being held in Louisville, Kentucky this May 15-18.
The annual meetings are a great way to get energized for the coming year’s legislative battles, enjoy the fellowship of fellow gun owners, and see all of the new guns, holsters, and gear that the manufacturers are bringing to market. This year’s Celebration of American Values banquet will feature talk show host Glenn Beck.
Make sure you stop by the NRA site and see everything that this year’s meeting has to offer.
