I have been very vocal about my thoughts that the Army failed this program thus failed the American soldier in providing him/her with the best pistol. My logic had nothing to do with either Glock or Sig, but with the failure of the process in selection. I have had comments sent to me that this is just a pistol and in the overall scheme of things it does not matter.

First, I will address the comment that "it is just a pistol and it does not matter". That is utterly false. If you have to use a pistol to defend yourself, you are really down to your last level of defense. If that pistol does not work then the soldier is dead. So, to him, there is nothing trivial about the need for the best quality pistol the US can provide their soldiers with. It is not uncommon for a pistol to be employed in an emergency situation. Whether that be a mortar crewman, machine gunner or anyone else who may require the ability to defend themselves.

In the late 1990’s, US SOCCOM had experienced significant issues with failures to extract as well as bolt structural failures on their M4A1 rifles. The problem was serious enough where Karl Lewis was approached to design an improved bolt carrier group that would correct the shortcomings of the standard GI bolt carrier group. The new design would improve the durability and reliability of the M4A1 carbine for SOCOM. LMT delivered their Enhanced Bolt Carrier Group because failure was not an option.

Throughout the market we are seeing Glock pistols manufactured in both the United States, as well as, Austria. Of course, that presents a question many ask themselves, is one better than the other? How do you determine whether your pistol is made in Austria or the US? We will take a look at both of these questions.

On the 6th of December of 2017, I had the opportunity to visit Glock in Smyrna, GA and go through the factory. I learned many interesting facts that relate to these questions.

Few weapons have be so shrouded in secrecy as the "Abakan" program in the former Soviet Union. Still in the midst of the Cold War, the Soviets began a search for a weapon to replace their revered Kalashnikov series rifles for a more modern rifle. The AK74 has served well up until this point.  However, very few would have expected it to still be with the Russians today. But even though type classified as the AN94 as a replacement for the AK74, it never happened.

Cyber Monday is here! It's that one day a year where you are encouraged to online shop with deep discounts. Brownells is offering 11% off everything sitewide, plus free shipping with code NBB. Here are some more of Chris's picks for deep savings.

FAXON FIREARMS - AR-15/M16 5.56 PENCIL BARRELS

Barrel Weight: 1 lbs
Cartridge: 5.56 mm NATO
Contour: Lightweight, Pencil
Finish: QPQ
Gas System Length: Mid-Length
Length: 14.5
Muzzle Threads: 1/2-28
Twist: 1-8

BROWNELLS - M16/M4 MAINTENANCE FIELD PACK

This compact, model-specific field maintenance pack is designed for servicing combat weapons and, provide the soldier or law enforcement personnel with all the tools required to field strip, repair, and maintain weapons while on the move. Not a run-of-the-mill cleaning kit, but carefully selected, high-quality field armorer tools dedicated to working on specific weapon types, so there is no confusion and no down time spent scrounging through a large field case of loose odds and ends. Individual pouches and compartments inside the water- and abrasion-resistant, denier Cordura case keep tools secure and separated to help minimize noise that could jeopardize your mission. Quiet, #9 YKK zippers with oversize pulls make it fast and easy to get tools in and out. Front panel features clear, I.D. card sleeve and loop strip for name tape. Includes two, nylon grab handles for easy carry. Made in the U.S.A. Field Pack Case also available separately. The M16/M4 Field Pack allows complete weapon breakdown for routine maintenance and repair, plus includes tools for sight adjustments and field cleaning of the Colt M16/M4. Includes special tools for removal of barrel nut, flash hider and lower receiver extension without damage to any rifle component.

TRIJICON - MRO™ (MINIATURE RIFLE OPTIC)

Battery Life: 5 yrs
Color: Black
Magnification: 1x
Objective Size: 25mm
Power Supply: (1) CR 2032 Lithium battery
Reticle: 2.0 MOA Red Dot
Weight: 4.1 oz
Made in the USA

BROWNELLS - AR-15 M16 A1 BLEMISHED LOWER RECEIVER

Designed in conjunction with Nodak Spud, the BRN-16A1 Lower Receiver matches the features of the original M16A1 Receiver.  Perfect for a “Retro” or reproduction build, these lowers precisely mirror the original profile.  
 
Features specific to the BRN-16A1 Lower Receiver are the proper M16A1 front takedown lug profile, and profile surrounding the receiver extension.  Most forged lower receivers produced today feature “A2” profiles, which are incorrect for M16A1 reproduction builds.  The lower starts off as a 7075 T6 aluminum forging, then is machined to mil-spec dimensions.  Once machined, the lower is finished with a matte black hard anodized finish.  This finish matches modern uppers found on the market today, as well as the Brownells M16A1 Upper Receiver sold separately.  
 
Standard AR-15 components will work perfectly with this lower.

These receivers only have cosmetic blemishes.  Expected blemishes are safety engravings on both sides of the receiver.  Receivers are otherwise perfectly functional. 

GEISSELE AUTOMATICS LLC - AR-15 ENHANCED TRIGGERS

B-G2S-E
The Geissele 2 Stage Enhanced Trigger (B-G2S-E) provides superior control and helps accuracy while maintaining the robustness and reliability that Geissele triggers are known for. The B-G2S-E gives a smooth, light 1st stage take up of 2.3lbs and a crisp, candy-cane-like 2nd stage break of 1.2lbs. The B-G2S-E is ideal for use in precision Squad Designated Marksman type rifles where weapon accuracy and reliability are critical.

B-GRF (Geissele Rapid Fire)
The Geissele Rapid Fire Trigger (B-GRF) was developed to give semiautomatic-only rifles a glass-smooth trigger pull very similar to the Geissele Super Select Fire (SSF) trigger designed for the U.S. Special Operations Community .  The B-GRF is a fast-shooting, smooth trigger ideal for 3 Gun competition and recreational shooting alike. It pulls like a single-stage, but resets like a two-stage. Two trigger springs are included so the B-GRF can be set up with a pull of either 4 lbs or 3.2 lbs. Does NOT convert semiautomatic rifles to automatic.

BROWNELLS - ROLL PIN HOLDERS
Hollow-Ended "Starter" Punches For Roll PinsHolds roll pins perfectly aligned for starting correctly. Especially good on the tiny, tough-to-grab ones, or those in tight places. 1/16" is notched to clear M16/AR-15 rear sight. 3.5mm excellent for holding the pin that retains the breech block on Sig handguns. Finish driving with roll pin punch. O/A in chart means "Overall". Available individually or as a set of 5.

MAGPUL - AR-15 300 BLK PMAG 30 GEN M3 MAGAZINE

The PMAG 30 AR 300 B GEN M3 is a purpose-designed magazine for rifles chambered in .300 Blackout. Since its inception, .300 Blackout shooters have had to use a magazine designed for another cartridge, limiting its performance and compatibility.

One of the nice features of .300 Blackout is the compatibility with 5.56x45mm parts, but with the magazine it is a compromise to do so. Due to the wide variety of projectile weights and shapes potentially decreasing overall reliability, a dedicated .300 Blackout magazine was a logical step for the PMAG line.

In addition to the performance gained by a dedicated mag, the PMAG 30 AR 300 B also offers a safer way to feed your .300 BLK rifle. When using 5.56 mags, the potential to chamber and fire a .300 BLK round in a 5.56 rifle with catastrophic results requires diligent ammunition management by the shooter. The PMAG 30 AR 300 B’s distinct rib design provides the shooter a distinct visual and tactile difference from any other PMAG to mitigate dangerous cross-loading issues.

GLOCK - MODEL 17/34 MAGAZINES

Convenient, Money-Saving 3-Paks Of Factory Mags For Popular ModelsGenuine Glock® factory magazines ensure smooth, reliable feeding and help you stay confident your pistol will perform reliably. Manufactured to Glock® specifications in Austria by Glock®. Features a round count indicator on rear face of mag body and the standard factory base plate. Also available bundled with a rugged Uncle Mike’s molded-Kydex two-mag belt pouch. Tension screw system lets you adjust the amount of retention for competition or carry. Combo available for Glock® 17/34 (9mm).

Colt lower on sale for $249 plus use code MED to save an additional $15 and get Free Shipping. https://goo.gl/NPpqjP

We are pulling some of the most amazing deals for your Black Friday Shopping.

Chris's favorite one is this ammo deal on 223 FMJ American Eagle. Combined with a sale price, mail in rebate and the codes Brownells is offering for free shipping and percentages off, it's rock bottom!

https://goo.gl/xzMiqi

Wondering what to add to your holiday list? Chris is running through gun accessories, gear, cleaning equipment, and tools. Brownells will be having a huge Black Friday sale where they offer a percentage off based on how much you purchase.

100-016-825 Vltor IMOD Stock https://goo.gl/nKroXP
100-003-750 Vltor Receiver Extension https://goo.gl/3DHWgt
100-003-185 SAS End Plate https://goo.gl/MvwNq1
452-000-209 JP Enterprises Silent Recoil Spring https://goo.gl/4AWgNC
100-024-307 Radian Arms Raptor Charging Handle https://goo.gl/VdSox9
100-019-321 Aimpoint 3x Magnifier https://goo.gl/EpkPga
100-003-002 Aimpoint Comp 4 https://goo.gl/sRLhso
100-009-823 Centurion Rail System https://goo.gl/C5r1ue
071-000-034 Tango Down Pistol Grip https://goo.gl/SE9Y7U
100-003-742 Arms Folding Front Sight https://goo.gl/iR7P28
100-022-768 FN 16” Barrel https://goo.gl/sHZNMZ
100-003-114 Vltor Flash Suppressor https://goo.gl/Pt8Lre
100-004-042 Vltor Upper Receiver Assembly https://goo.gl/oCACxk
100-024-753 Radian Arms Ambi Lower Receiver https://goo.gl/qNQo3z
100-014-095 Magpul MIAD Grip https://goo.gl/1pzizk
100-013-592 Hiperfire Elite Trigger https://goo.gl/X2BYjy
851-110-016 Smith Enterprise Bolt Carrier Assembly https://goo.gl/xT7sSx
901-000-002 Tank Rifle Shop Extractor Donut https://goo.gl/3oqqkk
100-011-219 Magpul Gen 3 PMag https://goo.gl/oWyBei
851-000-068 Smith Enterprise Armorer Wrench https://goo.gl/heUGuQ
100-003-986 CA Torque, Torque Wrench https://goo.gl/NRs6XZ
133-100-015 Mark Brown Gas Tube Wrench https://goo.gl/pEYcQX
100-000-308 Maglula AR Lula https://goo.gl/MDkuK2
851-000-091 Smith Enterprise Vortex Flash Suppressor https://goo.gl/kryJ2G
635-001-015 Norgon Ambi Magazine Release https://goo.gl/2tYJ8L
939-000-003 Young Manufacturing AR15 Bolt Ejection Tool https://goo.gl/aD4FPk
100-004-875 Gerber Effect Tool https://goo.gl/W2WcMA
100-010-603 Troy Battle Rail https://goo.gl/8y9RuH
471-100-008 Kroil 13oz Can https://goo.gl/wAhkTf

Headphones http://smallarmssolutions.com/1/post/...

Troy Rifles, 5% off at MyServiceRifle.com - Code: SASMSR2017 and 10% off Troy Accessories at Troyind.com - Code: SASTroy2017

Manta Code SAS20 to Save 20% http://www.manta.us/products.php G96 Code SAS10 to Save 10% http://www.mcssl.com/store/c0e84d9548...

Armorer's Manual https://www.amazon.com/Armorers-Manua...

When will the M16/M4 be replaced? It's been a popular question looming over the last 50 years or so. It has been attempted numerous times throughout the years through the ACR trials, Individual Carbine, as well as many others. For some reason, in the end, we stay with what we know works. Looking back to World War II, we saw a transformation from semi-automatic combat rifles, and in the post war era we saw the introduction of the intermediate caliber. Towards the end of World War II, we saw iron and wood turn into stamped sheet metal (StG44).

The Desert Eagle has become iconic because of its star status created in popular movies of our time, with one of most iconic film stars, Arnold Schwarzenegger. It has become one of the most recognized pistols in the world. It was in production for a few years without notice. In Arnold Schwarzenegger’s film, Commando the Desert Eagles is when its fame began. Other Schwarzenegger’s movies such as: Red Heat, Eraser and my favorite, Last Action Hero, would create the demand for this family of pistols.

The Desert Eagle is a large gas operated pistol firing the 357 Magnum, 44 Magnum and the most powerful cartridge in the world to be chambered in a semi-automatic pistol, the .50 Action Express. Although the designers wanted an even larger projectile but the ATF would have classified anything over .50 cal to be considered a destructive device.