Understanding the Fundamentals: What is a Ported Barrel? Definition and Mechanics At its core, a ported barrel is a firearm barrel that features strategically placed holes or slits, often on the top or sides of the barrel near the muzzle. These openings, known as ports, are designed to vent expanding gases upward or sideways upon … Read more
Understanding Shotguns: The Fundamentals Different Types of Shotguns Pump-Action Shotguns: These shotguns are known for their reliability and ease of use. They require the user to manually cycle the action, moving the forearm back and forth to eject a spent shell and load a fresh one. The pump-action is a favorite for its simplicity and … Read more
Understanding the Legal Landscape is Paramount Federal and Local Laws Modifying a shotgun barrel often sparks discussions among firearm enthusiasts. The practice, sometimes referred to as “sawing a shotgun barrel,” involves shortening the barrel for purposes ranging from improved maneuverability to specific shooting disciplines or purely for aesthetic customization. However, such alterations are accompanied by … Read more
Understanding the Origins: What are Police Trade-Ins? The Cycle of Service The phrase “police trade-in” itself conjures images of well-worn firearms, steeped in tales of duty and service. But what does it really mean? Simply put, a police trade-in firearm is one that was previously used by a law enforcement agency. These firearms, once carried … Read more
A Look Back: Historical Roots and Modern Evolution The 6.5x55mm Swedish Mauser (6.5 Swede) The story of these two cartridges begins in different eras, reflecting the evolution of firearms technology and the changing demands of shooters. The 6.5 Swede, a testament to the ingenuity of the late nineteenth century, was born from a collaborative effort … Read more
A Closer Look at the Design and Features Understanding the Basics Before delving into the Stoeger Double Defense Over Under problems, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental design of the Stoeger Double Defense. The Over Under design, characterized by its two barrels stacked vertically, provides distinct advantages in certain scenarios. Chambered in twelve gauge, the … Read more
Unveiling the Vital Function: The Role of the Firing Pin Function and Role The primary job of the Marlin 60 firing pin is deceptively simple: to ignite the rimfire cartridge. When the trigger is pulled and the sear releases the hammer, the hammer strikes the firing pin, which then travels forward with significant force. The … Read more
Understanding the Foundation: What is a Hollow Point Bullet? What is a Hollow Point? Before we pit them against each other, let’s first establish a firm grasp on the fundamentals of each bullet type. Hollow point bullets, a mainstay in the world of self-defense, are distinguished by their characteristic concave tip. This hollowed-out design is … Read more
Introduction Are you drawn to the raw power and classic simplicity of a double barrel shotgun? Perhaps you’re a hunter, a home defender, or just someone who appreciates the historical appeal of a side-by-side or over-under firearm. The double barrel shotgun has a rich legacy, offering a unique blend of reliability and effectiveness. But, the … Read more
Unraveling the Significance of Serial Numbers Every Thompson Center Arms rifle carries a unique identity, a string of characters etched onto its metal that sets it apart from every other firearm ever produced by the company. This is the serial number, and it serves far more purpose than just a legal requirement. Think of it … Read more
