While known for their muzzleloaders, CVA set out to make a feature-rich, affordable bolt action rifle. A threaded barrel, detachable box magazine, and generously textured stock ensure that you won’t be lacking out of the box. With an affordable price of around $500, the Cascade is a strong contender for people looking for a solid hunting-rifle on a budget.
The Rock Island Armory 1911 GI Standard MS (Mid-Size) is a commander-length 1911 that stays true to the original GI combat-issued 1911s of the past. Its shorter 4.25-inch barrel helps keep the gun more compact and concealable while still retaining the accuracy the 1911 is known for. The GI Standard MS holds 8+1 rounds of .45 ACP and comes with a crisp 4-6 pound trigger, wood grips, low profile GI sights, and a smooth parkerized finish.
FN has taken their famed SCAR 17S platform and adapted it for long range shooting – the result is the SCAR 20S. A longer 20-inch chrome-lined barrel was added, along with a 2-stage Geissele match trigger, a SureFire ProComp to reduce recoil, and a stock that is fully adjustable for length-of-pull and cheek height. Still present is the standard SCAR gas-operated design, making the 20S a reliable and accurate platform for semi-automatic designated marksman work.
The CZ P-07 was the first handgun to feature CZ’s convertible Omega trigger system that allows users to switch between a traditional manual safety or a decocker configuration. Much like the older CZ 75, the P-07 features the accuracy-boosting “slide-in-frame” setup that CZ is known for. Interchangeable backstraps and a durable polymer frame make this pistol a great choice for those looking for a reliable DA/SA duty gun. The P-07 comes in at 27.7 ounces with a 3.75-inch barrel and has a standard capacity of 15+1.
The HK USP (Universal Service Pistol) was created to be an ultra-reliable and durable handgun for military and law enforcement use. It has since been adopted by nations around the world and has earned a reputation as one of the toughest pistols on the planet. The .45 ACP version features a 4.41-inch polygonal rifled barrel, 12+1 capacity, a hostile environment corrosion-resistant blued finish, an ambi paddle mag release, and a reinforced polymer frame. A patented recoil reduction system not only helps cut down on felt recoil, but these guns are strong enough to safely fire .45 Super without any modifications. The end result is a DA/SA hammer fired pistol that is primed to take on the toughest of tasks, even 30 years after its initial development.
The Smith & Wesson M&P12 utilizes a bullpup design to deliver high capacity in a short, maneuverable package. Its dual magazine tubes are able to accept six 3-inch shells or seven 2 3/4-inch shells each and also have the ability to use mini-shells. This shotgun also features the ergonomic M&P grip, which includes interchangeable backstraps. Large, ambidextrous controls and downward ejection make this shotgun suitable for both left and right-handed users.
The Smith & Wesson M&P Bodyguard 380 features a 2.75-inch barrel, a 6+1 capacity of .380 ACP, and an unloaded weight of only 12.3 ounces. This double-action-only pistol also includes a manual safety. With an extremely light overall weight and small footprint, the Bodyguard makes for a solid choice when it comes to concealed carry.
The Henry Lever Action Axe .410 is an amazingly fun firearm to shoot. With a 15.14-inch barrel and a 26.4-inch overall length, the Axe is easy to store anywhere and is easy to handle and maneuver. Users get 5+1 rounds of the light-recoiling .410 gauge, and a side loading gate makes it easy to keep the ammo topped off. It comes standard with a full choke and is internally threaded to accept other Invector-style chokes. A walnut pistol grip and forend and a brass bead front sight complete the look and help deliver a package that is both enticing to shoot and to look at.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-shoot plinker that’s great for all skill levels, the Heritage Barkeep ticks all those boxes. This single-action army inspired revolver is designed to be light and portable in a fun-to-shoot package. The Barkeep features a 2-inch barrel, a 6-shot .22 LR cylinder (.22 Magnum cylinders are available), and classic-style western grips. The frame uses a simulated case-hardened finish that helps give this gun its distinctive look.
“With a flared mag well and a large mag release, reloads are quick and easy. The streamlined slide reduces muzzle flip and helps keep follow-on shots on target. CZ’s TS 2 is heavy but also a very appealing and purposefully designed competition pistol. While I know of others who have run their TS 2 without ever having an issue, the model we received did not like to shoot dirty — so a good cleaning is recommended when you take it out.”
