After thorough testing, we can confirm that Geissele’s high-end (and high-priced) Super Duty is worth the price of entry. This AR-15 comes with up-spec components out of the box so there’s no need to modify it. It shoots accurately with a variety of ammunition and feels great doing it.
The Staccato C is a 9mm pistol that, while pricey, is worth every penny. Its upgraded features, like an optics-ready slide, 4-inch bull barrel, crisp trigger, and sleek ergonomics, make it a worthy contender for defensive, competition, and even concealed carry purposes. It is accurate and reliable, proving itself on the range during our testing. The only real drawbacks are the price tag and a mag release that might be tough to reach for smaller-handedd shooters.
Tracing its roots back to the respected and venerable Mossberg 500, the 590A1 keeps the core of what makes the 500-series of shotguns so great and makes it even better. The U.S. military put out a request for a more durable pump-action shotgun that could stand up to the rigors of hard field use, and the 590A1 was born. Mossberg responded by adding a tough parkerized finish, all metal trigger guard, thick-walled barrel, and stronger internals. It is an intuitive and easy to use pump-gun, but it is a bit on the heavy side due to the aforementioned features. The extra weight helps tame the harsh recoil of the 12 gauge round, making the shooting experience a little more pleasant. The ambidextrous tang safety makes the gun easy for all users to operate the gun. Its wide aftermarket also allows you to tailor the gun to your specific wants and needs. While the 590A1 isn’t the smoothest or lightest shotgun out there, it is an absolute tank, and you’d be hard pressed to find any firearm that will last as long and take as much punishment.
The Mossberg 500 has withstood the test of time and is the gold standard when it comes to pump-action shotguns for the everyman. They are reliable, easy to maintain, versatile, have a huge aftermarket, and are extremely affordable. It is likely the most popular shotgun in the United States, and for a good reason.
“Taurus provides reliable personal protection to a lot of folks who may be on a budget. Their G3C is a solid and cost-effective offering in a fairly saturated market. The Taurus G3C delivers a reliable, ergonomic, and economic CCW for the average person.” – Johnny B.
“Chiappa’s Little Badger is a single-shot rifle with a wire stock and hardly anything but a small barrel, receiver, and wire stock. It weighs 2.9 pounds and comes with four short rails to attach accessories to. It’s very easy to operate — all you have to do is load the gun, close it up, cock the hammer, and pull the trigger. The gun folds in half to be only roughly 17 inches long. It’s super thin and fits in a backpack with hardly any room taken up.” — Travis Pike
