Concealed Carry Corner: Self-Taught vs Professional Training

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week, we talked about the risks of drinking when carrying a concealed handgun. If you happened to miss that article, be sure to click the link here to check it out. This week, I wanted to look at another topic I get more questions on than expected. With current events around the country, there has been an uptick not only in new concealed carriers but also in women who want to carry concealed firearms. There have been a fair number of people interested in getting their concealed carry license but get anxious about taking a class for the first time. Many have said it’s best to go out and shoot on your own first while others preach to get training first so you learn to shoot correctly. Let’s take a closer look at self-taught vs professional training.

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The New Ed Brown Roughout IWB Holster for Commander 1911 Pistols

Ed Brown Products specializes in anything and everything 1911. While they started out manufacturing some of the best high-end custom 1911 pistols in the nation, they’ve evolved to become a supplier of not just the guns, but pretty much every part and accessory you can mount to one. Today they’ve just announced the introduction of their new IWB Roughout holster which is able to accept Commander-sized 1911s equipped with red dot sights – a much more common possibility with modern everyday carriers.

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TFB Review: Glock 43X MOS – My First Glock

Glock is a brand that certainly needs little introduction in the year 2023 but here are the cliff notes for those who may not be familiar with the company. Glock is a brand of polymer-framed, short recoil-operated, locked-breech semi-automatic pistols designed and produced by Austrian manufacturer Glock Ges.m.b.H. The firearm entered the Austrian military and police service by 1982 after it was the top performer in reliability and safety tests. Glock pistols have become the company’s most profitable line of products, and have been supplied to national armed forces, security agencies, and police forces in at least 48 countries. The focus of this review will be on the Glock 43X MOS which is a concealed carry-minded pistol that was originally released in everyone’s favorite year of 2020. 

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Wheelgun Wednesday: Current Chinese Police Revolvers – NRP9 and ZLS05

Thanks for joining us for another TFB Wheelgun Wednesday, where we discover the vast world of revolvers. We have been taking an occasional look at revolvers still being issued by police agencies, and this week, we’ll explore the curious current issue Chinese police revolvers, the Norinco NRP9 and the ZLS05. It’s always interesting to see what  handguns police agencies decide to issue, especially when it comes to wheelguns in 2023. Let’s take a look at the Chinese police revolvers.

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Springfield Armory Echelon – 21st Century Handgun Inspired by Spartans

Being deep into the 21st century we thought we would be further along than we currently feel today in 2023. Marty McFly was riding a hoverboard in 2015 in “Back to the Future – Part II” (1989 film) and The Jetsons were promising us flying cars in space in the year 2062 (I don’t think we’re going to get there, ladies and gents). Within the firearm industry, there are a multitude of polymer handguns which are like 50 shades of the same thing. So, how does a gun company differentiate itself?… By adding in Custom Shop accouterments like being optics ready without the need for plates… being a chassis pistol so you can deploy multiple and varying frames… having the extendo magazines video games hype up and range goers authentically want… being textured well unlike some dolphin-mayo, slick guns on the market today… a superb trigger that is actually drop-safe… and the gun needs to be sexy as all get-out (no one wants an ugly sports car). The Springfield Armory Echelon is the epitome of what a 21st-century handgun should be with custom shop upgrades in an affordable, factory pistol offering. Let’s check it out.

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Springfield Echelon Pistol Review [VIDEO]

In this exciting episode of TFBTV, James Reeves dives into the brand-new Springfield Echelon Pistol. Unlike traditional pistols, the Echelon employs a serialized chassis system similar to the SIG P320. This groundbreaking design allows users to easily purchase and interchange frames, unlocking a new level of customization and adaptability.

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NEW M&P 22 Magnum Pistol From Smith & Wesson

Smith & Wesson has just announced a new pistol to the M&P series, the M&P 22 Magnum, that boasts a 30-round capacity. The new semi-auto S&W M&P 22 Magnum pistol utilizes a gas operated system, and features an internal hammer, fiber optic front sight, and is optics-ready. This model includes a frame-mounted manual safety which is ambidextrous, along with slide stop controls on both sides of the pistol. You can read Smith & Wesson’s press release and specifications below.

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Firearms and Gun Handling of "Extraction 2" (2023). Part 2: Interview with the Movie's Tactical Coordinator

In part 1 of this article, we talked with Larry Zanoff one of the most prominent armorers in Hollywood who works for ISS, the company that provided weapons for “Extraction 2“.

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Taurus Adds Special Color Models To 856 Revolver Lineup

Taurus is adding new limited edition color variants of the 856 Ultralite revolver. TFB has looked at some 856 models recently, including the optics-ready 856 TORO and 856 Defender models. But all of those versions were in fairly standard color schemes.

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Taurus Releases TH45 Pistol in .45 ACP

Taurus is expanding its line of TH pistols to include a .45 ACP model, the TH45. The TH designation comes from “Taurus Hammer” and this family of guns features an exposed hammer, double action/single action trigger mechanism, and polymer frame. Let’s take a look at its features.

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Concealed Carry Corner: Risks of Carrying and Drinking

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week, we talked about some of the top personalities in the concealed carry space. You guys did a great job in the comments section, so be sure to watch for part two. If you happened to miss that article be sure to click the link here to check it out. This week, I wanted to talk about a common issue that I see both in person and on the web. There are a number of people I know who will have a drink or two while carrying concealed. They often times say it’s no big deal and dismiss anything I say to them. There are some real issues with drinking while carrying not only legally but ethically as well. Let’s take a closer look at the risks of carrying and drinking.

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Firearms and Gun Handling of "Extraction 2" (2023) – Part 1: Interview with Film Armorer Larry Zanoff

At the end of May, after some careful consideration, I canceled my Netflix subscription, only to find out a few days later that “Extraction 2” is coming out on Netflix on June 16.

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TFB Weekly Web Deals 55: Independence Day Roundup

Welcome to TFB Weekly Web Deals 55! Tomorrow is Independence Day, so on behalf of everyone at TFB and TFBTV, Happy Independence Day! While this day is about celebrating the birth of our great nation, it’s also an excellent opportunity to take stock of everything we have because of not just the founding of this country, but the great people who came before us who have helped forge it into the best nation on this planet. Our founding fathers would have been unable to help instigate such a founding were it not for the arms, ammunition, and skilled gunsmiths they had around then. While the principles and purpose of the 2nd Amendment have not changed, the arms, ammunition, and gunsmiths have and we’re fortunate today to have access to some of the most cutting-edge firearms technology available on the planet, partially due to the fact that our access to arms is baked right into our nations constitution. In honor of that, and as is our custom here at TFB, let’s help celebrate our nation’s birth by sharing some great deals we’ve found for arms, ammunition, and gear in TFB Weekly Web Deals 55.

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Contingencies: Upgrading With Meprolight Tru-Dot Irons to Co-Witness

In recent years, the use of red dot sights on handguns has gained significant popularity among most shooters regardless of their preferred platform, or shooting sport. Just 10 years ago finding an optic on a handgun was still fairly rare outside of the competition world and absolutely unheard of in the concealed carry market. Reflex sights provide several advantages, including increased accuracy, faster target acquisition, and improved shooting speed. However, combining red dot optics with co-witnessed iron sights can offer even greater benefits for shooters seeking versatility and reliability even beyond the simple concept of redundancy. Let’s face it, today’s red dot optics are extremely reliable, and in most cases, you won’t have to rely on your co-witnessed irons. So In this article, we will explore why utilizing co-witness sights in tandem with your red dot-equipped handgun is a good practice to adopt. To accomplish this we’ll be using a Glock 45 MOS handgun and Meprolight’s Tru-Dot series of replacement iron sights with a specific focus on their suppressor height sights which will serve as my co-witness sights.

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Concealed Carry Corner: Top 3 Carrying Stereotypes in 2023

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week, we talked about flying with a carry gun. If you happened to miss that article, be sure to click the link here to check it out. This week, I wanted to look at some of the personalities I’ve started to notice more and more over my time in various gun shops and events. Keep in mind this is to have fun and point out certain things in the community that may not be perfect. Let’s take a closer look at some carrying stereotypes.

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TFB Review: The Nighthawk Custom President in 30SC

My first handgun was on sale when I bought it. Starting your journey into firearms can be tough when you’re young. Shooting is an expensive activity. However, there comes a point in every shooter’s life when they have the resources to make a more substantial purchase. Handling a high-end, custom firearm is an eye-opening experience. Like moving from a Ford Edge to a GT, money can buy performance. Of course, it all comes down to the shooter’s abilities, but a smooth, well-crafted gun can deliver reliability and consistency. One company that’s well known for its top-tier quality is Nighthawk Custom, which boasts that each of its guns is crafted by one gunsmith. I recently got my hands on the Nighthawk Custom President, this one chambered in 30 Super Carry.

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Canadian Armed Forces Begin Transition to SIG Sauer P320

In October 2022, the Canadian government  announced that the SIG Sauer P320 will be replacing the iconic Browning HiPower which have been in service for nearly 80 years. The Canadian government will procure an initial batch of 7,000 pistols and holster systems for the Canadian Army.

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HOT GAT or FUDD CRAP? Hundred Dolla Bills or Hundred Dollar Skills?

Welcome everyone to the 196th edition of ‘Hot Gat or Fudd Crap?’, one of our many series here on TFB. If you’re new to the series, this is where we look at the most obscure firearms that are actually for sale and ask the question – is this Gat a sweet deal or only have Fudd appeal?  Each week the TFB staff weighs in with their thoughts, but readers get the final say in the poll at the bottom of each article.

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New California Compliant Ruger SR22 Available Through Sports South

The Ruger SR22 is an affordable and fun little 22-caliber plinker that’s been around for over a decade now. However, the residents of California have not typically been able to purchase these fun little handguns due to not being on the infamous California Roster – something that pretty much never changes. However, for all of my fellow firearms friends directly to my south, I’m happy to report that this has just changed – the Ruger SR22 has finally made its way onto the approved list of handguns that can be sold in California. This new California Compliant Ruger SR22 will be available exclusively through Sports South, a fairly large online firearms wholesale and distributor that serves the nation through its home base in Shreveport, Louisiana.

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Safariland Announces Multicam Arid Holsters

Safariland’s latest special edition camo is Multicam Arid. This pattern has been long-awaited by desert dwellers and fans of unique camo. Let’s take a look at the various models.

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Is This Face-Recognizing Smart Gun Legit? The Biofire Pistol [GunCon 2023]

TFBTV and James Reeves are at Brownells covering GunCon2023. In this episode, James speaks with Biofire, makers of the newest and very highly-hyped smart gun, which uses fingerprint and facial recognition technology to unlock for use. James is skeptical, but the gentlemen from Biofire do their best to allay James’ concerns with this controversial technology.

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SILENCER SATURDAY #284: YHM Phantom 22 Rimfire Maintenance

Good afternoon everyone and welcome back to TFB’s Silencer Saturday brought to you by Yankee Hill Machine, manufacturers of the new YHM Turbo T3 5.56 rifle suppressor. Last week we talked about some of the best suppressor-ready hosts on the market. This week we have a brief tutorial on cleaning the YHM Phantom 22 rimfire suppressor. How often should you clean your rimfire silencers? Let’s take a look.

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Coming July – Safariland and Haley Strategic Introduce the IncogX Holster

As part of Safariland’s increased interest in the CCW market, they’ve partnered up with Travis Haley of Haley Strategic Partners to produce the next evolution of the original HSP Incog IWB concealment holster – the IncogX. This newest evolution features red dot compatibility, adjustable attachments like a removable magazine caddy, a new toolless adjustable wedge, and a brand-new suede outer coating for increased comfort.

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The New Easy-to-Conceal OWB Solis Holster from Safariland

Safariland is probably most well known for catering almost exclusively to the Law Enforcement and Military market. However, it’s become clear in recent times that Safariland is taking an increased interest in providing everyday customers with products more suited to their lifestyle with firearms. That’s why Safariland is excited to announce their newest OWB holster – the easy-to-conceal Solis. I’ve had one of these little rigs for the last month or so and what’s great about the Solis is that it provides a lot of versatility for a customer who may only have the money for one holster, but wants to use it for everything ranging from ECD to possibly even competition shooting. The holster comes with a paddle-style attachment for your waist and belt, but in these photos, you’ll see I’ve adapted it for use on a battle belt for some recent range trips.

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Concealed Carry Corner: How To Fly With Your Carry Gun

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week, we discussed training like we fight and the importance of consistency. If you missed that article, be sure to click the link here to check it out. This week, I want to talk about a subject that most people who carry concealed either avoid or are just too nervous to attempt. Flying with a firearm is one of those things that most aren’t willing to do because they feel like it’s either too difficult or just not worth it when traveling. Over the last few years, I have flown a number of times commercially with a firearm, along with just recently private as well which is certainly a completely different experience. Let’s take a closer look at how to fly with your carry gun.

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Matrix Arms MXI Steel Frame Glockoid Pistol

Matrix Arms entered the handgun market about a year ago with the release of their MX19 line of Glock 19 parts-compatible pistols. The main feature that sets the MX19 pistols apart from other handguns on the market that use G19 parts is the machined aluminum frame. The company has just announced a new competition version of their MX series of handguns called Matrix Arms MXI which is a Glock 34 size pistol that also has a metal frame, except made of steel.

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TFB Review: The Mighty 10mm Glock 40 MOS

The 10mm Glock has a cult following among outdoorsmen. Glock 40 combines the reliability that Glock pistols are famous for with the revolver-like punch of the 10mm Auto cartridge. Glock already made full-size and compact models but added a long-slide model in 2015. So how does it shoot, and what is it capable of?

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Florida Man Comps a Glock – Backup Tactical Glock Perfect Fit PROComp

Infamous Florida Man, aftermarket parts producer and firearms enthusiast Jason from Backup Tactical, has just given us a first look at his new Glock Perfect Fit PRO Comp. The new addition to the PROComp line follows the same design language as the previously released SIG 320 Perfect Fit PROComp – it’s meant to not just work as an effective compensator but also contour to and match the already existing lines on your handgun, making it look cool too.

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The Kel-Tec P17's new Optic-Ready Slide

In this episode of TFBTV, Hop checks out the new optic-ready slide for the Kel-Tec P17. For just $199 you can get a replacement slide for the P17 that includes a pre-installed Crimson Trace red dot. The P17 is one of the cheapest among the recent crop of high-capacity rimfire pistols, and this slide brings it into competition with the SIG Sauer P322, FN 502, and the optics-ready models of the Taurus TX22. But can it survive even a modest round count?

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PSA Rock 5.7 Pistol 1,000 Round Torture Test and Review

In this episode of TFBTV, James Reeves gets his hands on the cheapest 5.7x28mm pistol you can buy: The $350 dollar Palmetto State Armory Rock 5.7. The PSA Rock is inexpensive but, ergonomically speaking, pretty comfy. It has a 23+1 round capacity of 5.7mm, and the basic model can be found for less than $400. In this video, we subject the PSA Rock to a 1,000-round burndown, pushing it to the limits over 6 months without cleaning or lubricating the Rock. How does the budget-priced PSA Rock 57 do? And how does it compare to other popular 5.7 pistols like the Ruger-5.7, the FN Five-seveN, and the Smith & Wesson M&P 5.7? Watch today’s vid and find out.

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