GunBroker.com announced live bidding on two exclusive auctions for Barrett Firearms Manufacturing's America's 250th Rifle Series, featuring matched pairs of .50 caliber rifles with historically significant serial numbers LIBERTY1776/FREEDOM1776 and LIBERTY2026/FREEDOM2026, each including RMJ Tactical tomahawks, commemorative coins, and certificates signed by Ronnie Barrett.
Faxon Firearms has won the Shooting Sports Retailer Choice Gold Award for Aftermarket Barrel for the fourth consecutive year, as voted by the magazine's readers of independent dealers and industry professionals. The Greater Cincinnati-based manufacturer's award reflects reader recognition of its in-house-manufactured rifle barrels and commitment to American manufacturing.
Hornady's 338 ARC ammunition has been named the 2026 American Rifleman Ammunition Product of the Year by the NRA Media Golden Bullseye Awards. The cartridge delivers 1.5 times more energy than the 300 Blackout Subsonic and is available in five product lines for AR-15 and micro-bolt action rifles.
Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. received the NRA's Golden Ring of Freedom honor at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, TX, with President and CEO Todd Seyfert accepting on behalf of the company. The recognition reflects Ruger's long-term commitment to supporting the National Rifle Association, the Second Amendment, firearm safety education, and youth programs.
Springfield Armory received the National Rifle Association's American Rifleman Tactical Product of the Year Golden Bullseye Award for the Kuna 9mm at the 2026 Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, Texas. Developed in partnership with HS Produkt, the roller-delayed Kuna features a monolithic aluminum upper and 30-round magazines, with pricing starting at $1,179.
Dead Air Silencers and Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. announced that the Ruger RXD30Ti suppressor has received the 2026 American Rifleman Golden Bullseye Award. The suppressor features advanced Triskelion and Nomad baffle technologies, an integrated E-Brake for recoil reduction, and broad HUB accessory compatibility for modern long-range and hunting applications.
Benelli's Nova 3 Tactical pump-action shotgun has been honored with the prestigious 2026 American Rifleman Golden Bullseye Award from NRA Media. The award recognizes the shotgun's excellence in innovation, reliability, and consumer value, with Product Manager Bret Maffett highlighting its modern defensive features and lightweight handling.
Shadow Systems CEO Trevor Roe recognized Check-Mate employees Brian Crow, Robert Potts, and Brayden Shorb for exceptional dedication and technical expertise supporting the company's manufacturing and product development. Each recipient received a complimentary Shadow Systems pistol in recognition of their contributions to the partnership.
Conservation Visions published a peer-reviewed article in People and Nature through the Wild Harvest Initiative® showing that big game hunting in the United States generates 235.76 kilotonnes of wild meat annually, equivalent to 1.39 billion meals with a $3.21 billion USD replacement value.
The NSSF commends Indiana Gov. Mike Braun for signing Senate Enrolled Act 176, which prohibits local governments from using zoning regulations to prevent firearm retailers and shooting ranges from operating in commercially-zoned areas. The law takes effect July 1, 2026.
ZEV Technologies, a maker of performance handguns and AR-style rifles, is relocating its headquarters and manufacturing operations from Washington state to Riverton, Utah by May 31. The move to the 2A-friendly Salt Lake City area will expand ZEV's 40,000-square-foot facility and create new jobs in advanced manufacturing and engineering roles.
Hornady Manufacturing Company launched a limited-edition "Nebraska Strong" t-shirt fundraiser, with 100% of profits benefiting the Nebraska Cattlemen's Disaster Relief Fund. The initiative supports ranchers affected by wildfires that burned nearly 1 million acres across Nebraska's Sandhills region.
Faxon Firearms is hiring a full-time CNC Mill Operator for second shift at their Fairfield, Ohio facility. The position requires 6 months of similar experience, mechanical aptitude, and blueprint reading skills. U.S. person status is required due to ITAR regulations.
Faxon Firearms is hiring a CNC Programmer to create CNC programs and machining instructions. The role requires 5 years of manufacturing/engineering and CAD/CAM experience, with expertise in GibbCAM software and precision machining. U.S. person status is required due to ITAR regulations.
Faxon Firearms is hiring a full-time CNC Lathe Operator for the second shift at their Fairfield, Ohio facility. The position requires 6 months of similar experience, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to read blueprints. U.S. person status is required due to ITAR regulations.
Walther Arms, Inc. announced the creation of a dedicated Sales Manager position for dealer and buying group channels. The role, reporting to Vice President of Sales Tyler Weigel, will focus on revenue growth, market expansion, and strengthening the Walther Premium Dealer Program across the U.S. shooting sports market.
The Double D Foundation announced a significant financial commitment from Patriot Mobile, America's only Christian conservative wireless provider, at the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston. As a Corporate Partner, Patriot Mobile's support strengthens the Foundation's capacity to protect the Second Amendment and expand youth shooting sports participation.
MidwayUSA announced a partnership with SCI TV Networks, becoming the official retail partner for Safari Club International's new global hunting television platform. MidwayUSA customers receive an exclusive subscription discount with code MIDW26 on the streaming service featuring live hunting channels, video-on-demand content, and an outfitters marketplace.
Dead Air Silencers announced that Cris McRae, formerly of Magpul Industries Corp, joined as Senior Product Manager for Accessories. McRae brings over a decade of firearms industry experience in product development and commercialization to drive innovation and strategic growth.
Leapers, Inc. has released UTG M-LOK Panel Covers featuring heat-resistant polymer construction with tool-free patented design and discrete cable management. Available in 1.55" and 3.15" lengths, these covers are now in stock through online retailers and local gun shops nationally.
Legacy Sports International is now shipping the new 2026 Pointer FT912 Series over-under shotguns in black and silver receiver options. The 12-gauge shotguns feature walnut stocks, jeweled receivers, ejectors, crisp mechanical triggers, and five extended chokes at an MSRP of $739.00.
TAG Precision announced a collaboration with Kimber America, supplying advanced sight and optics solutions including patented FiberLok™ sights and optic adapter plates for Kimber's 2K11 and CDS9 models. Michael Neff, President at TAG Precision, and Everett Deger, Director of Marketing at Kimber America, emphasized their shared commitment to precision and quality.
Kinetic Development Group engineered the Kinect Series, a patented tool-free mounting system that uses spring-loaded wedge locking mechanisms to secure accessories to M-LOK interfaces without tools or hardware, maintaining the strength of traditional hard mounts while improving user experience.
Engaged Industries launched its 2026 suppressor lineup featuring the Delta 5.56 and Recon XL in multiple calibers, incorporating proprietary Vacuum Expansion Technology and the upgraded VLB26 baffle system. The 3D printed titanium suppressors deliver enhanced sound mitigation and reduced gas blowback while maintaining compact size and minimal weight.
DeSantis Gunhide introduced the Infiltrator® Air holster for Springfield Echelon firearms, featuring red dot sight compatibility, adjustable cant, and breathable synthetic backing. Designed for everyday carry with precision-molded Kydex® construction, the holster retails for $113.99.
MDT has introduced a new 3-round metal magazine for 300 PRC and .338 Lapua Magnum designed for hunters seeking a lower profile setup. The magazine features a polymer bottom cover to reduce noise and offers a compact, flush-fit option ideal for field use. Availability begins April 21 through MDT dealers and mdttac.com.
Breek Arms has launched the Trash Shield, a HUB-compatible blast-forwarding device designed to redirect concussion, noise, and muzzle blast downrange. Constructed from aerospace-grade aluminum, the accessory integrates with industry-standard suppressor mounting systems and is especially effective in confined environments like indoor ranges and team-based training scenarios.
Beretta announces the 80X Cheetah Tactical Bronze, a modernized .380 platform featuring a factory-installed compensator, optics-ready slide, and Xtreme-S trigger. The compact defensive pistol includes LOK G10 grip panels, fiber optic sights, and ships with three 15-round magazines at an MSRP of $1,049.
Beretta will exhibit at the 2026 GEAR Summit in Amarillo, Texas, featuring the M9A4 Overlanding Series in Lunar, Clay, and Nomad Bronze finishes, along with the PX4 G-SD, APX A1 Tactical, and 92XI Squalo pistols. The company will also participate in a nighttime glow clay shoot, showcasing its commitment to the Second Amendment community.
Target Sports USA's AMMO+ Day 2 savings event is live, offering exclusive deals on ammunition and primers for AMMO+ members. The event began April 23, 2026, at 9 AM EST, with membership available for immediate enrollment to access exclusive pricing and free shipping.
The Armory Life has released its 19th digital magazine edition featuring a 1911 Ronin-themed issue with cover story reviews of optics-ready 1911 Ronin AOS models, customized variants, holsters, and EDC tactics. Editor-in-chief Mike Humphries highlights the publication's commitment to delivering topical and engaging firearms content through its expanding digital magazine series.
Liberty Ammunition will exhibit at the Texas Tactical Police Officers event in Round Rock, Texas, showcasing their new Law Enforcement and Military ammunition. CEO Gary Ramey highlighted the "Pro Series" ammunition's superior stopping power and reduced over-penetration compared to traditional lead bullets. Free product samples and ballistic range days will be available to departments.
Langdon Tactical Technology (LTT) will attend the 2026 Texas Tactical Police Officers Association (TTPOA) Conference in Round Rock, Texas, marking the company's first expansion into the law enforcement market with its new Law Enforcement Program.
XTech Tactical has become title sponsor of the Firearms Action Shooting Trial (F.A.S.T.) 2026 series, featuring four marquee events combining time-based 2-Gun and rifle competitions with natural terrain and realistic physical challenges. Founded by Russell Phagan, F.A.S.T. matches test shooter skills with targets extending to 500 yards for rifles and 100 yards for pistols.
Pyramyd AIR announced that Hatsan Airguns has become the Platinum Sponsor for the 2026 Pyramyd Cup, taking place August 5th-8th at Cardinal Shooting Center in Marengo, Ohio. The partnership supports the premier airgun competition featuring 100-Yard Benchrest, Field Target, and Gunslynger disciplines. Registration opens April 23rd at noon eastern.
Without going into why – “what is tactical about a snub revolver in 22 Magnum?” – let it suffice to note that people who have physical limitations due to age and various medical infirmities might find their needs best served by a light recoiling, easily concealed gun.
Even tactical types get old and infirm. I’m not sure they lack a need for adequate self-protection. As to the “power” of the 22 Mag from a short barrel, let’s look back in time:
“The one light loading that I would like to see would be the airweight (sic) model Cobras and Chief Specials chambered for the new .22 RF Magnum load. This is a wicked little cartridge and would add little to the weight of the light models (five .38 Special cartridges weigh about as much as the Chief airweight (sic)), and would make a wonderful addition to the "hide-out" field, particularly for officers working in hot countries where usually a coat is not worn during the hot summer months.” (p.77) – and –
If you don’t know who Bill Jordan was, he was Assistant Chief Patrol Inspector of the U.S. Border Patrol, an experienced lawman and game hunter. He was a WWII Marine, veteran of the Pacific Campaign. To say he’d participated in and seen a lot of action, including shootings of people and game would be an understatement. If he thought a snub .22 Magnum was a good idea, I’m not going to call it stupid.
So why is this relevant now? I recall this because a reader, interested in the 22 Magnum snub - his is a S&W Model 351C – asked about accuracy I’d experienced in my own sample … from a 2016 feature.
These small blasters have accuracy, if you have patience. It doesn't hurt to check various brands and types of 22 Mag ammo for accuracy and point of impact.
I no longer have the ammo in question and ca. 10-year-old notes seem to have escaped me, but his question brought up an interesting point: is this revolver format still available for those who’ve more recently come into infirmity or senior-citizen status?
Let’s look.
I’ll start with a gun I’ve not been able to source for examination: the Taurus 942, an 8-shot 22WMR revolver. It weighs in at the portly side of the 22 Magnum lineup at over 17 ounces. With the two-inch barrel, it’s the capacity champ with eight rounds of cylinder space, likewise a maximum for this class of micro-cannon.
Unlike others of the field, the Taurus 942 has a drift adjustable rear sight that matches with the ramped front blade. The stocks are standard-Taurus rubber, meaning they are surprisingly comfortable for shooting, though may complicate pocket carry.
I have the steel frame 22LR version of this gun and it works fine. It’s a bit much to carry, but my 22 is heavier, not the Ultra-lite. This Magnum, linked above, has an aluminum frame with the barrel and cylinder fabricated from steel.
They don’t show a stainless version of the 942 Ultra-lite in 22 Magnum.
Staying with the heavy weights, Ruger still shows the 22 Magnum LCRx with “limited availability.” I’m guessing they don’t make many. Weighing 15.4 ounces, this comes in second for heavy weight. It comes in at the bottom for capacity; the LCRx in 22 Magnum holds only six rounds. I asked about this some years ago and it was said that extraction issues with the long, straight 22 Magnum case were lessened by having fewer cases to drive out after firing.
This is another one I don’t have to try. I’ve made rather extensive use of the LCR/LCRx line in the past and expect no problems from this one – if you can find it.
The S&W Model 351C – a Centennial configuration – was the subject of the reader’s question. The Centennial, a brainchild of Rex Applegate, is a double action revolver with a concealed hammer. Fitting a wide range of holsters, the 351C has a large white dot for a front sight. I’ve had this sample for over ten years.
A seven-shot capacity and a ca. 11-ounce weight makes quite a package. The factory stocks were rubber and the trigger was smooth, featuring no grooves on its face. The action is stiff, appropriate to lighting rimfire ammunition.
From the same maker, there is an exposed-hammer option, the M351PD. I’d turned my nose up at it as the Centennial line has concealed hammers, the better to draw from a pocket holster without snagging a hammer spur.
Trying the PD version was interesting. It’s a handy gun in its own right.
Aside from the conventional exposed hammer J-frame format, it features a U-notch cut into the top strap as a rear sight with a fiber optic front sight. It’s a very good sight picture for coarse accuracy.
How well do these things shoot?
Using the 351C, I used the Mika Pocket Holster to shoot Hackathorn’s Wizard Drill. It’s five rounds, spread over distances from three yards, to five, to seven and back to ten yards. You have 2.5 seconds per stage and, if shooting a pocket gun from a pocket holster, you can start with your hand on the gun in the holster.
I was down one, went over the head box on the first shot at three yards. After that, I settled in and shot the rest of the course clean and in time.
Using the S&W 351PD, I shot a retiree qualification course, for score, in front of the agency rangemaster. I shot CCI Maxi-Mag ammo and used a Galco Concealable belt holster (before the 2.0 version). Using this previous Concealable, the gun was virtually invisible under a shirt. I shot 100% -- barely – with a hit that wandered out to the scoring line and cut it.
The size of the group wasn’t small, but I was surprised at the central cluster in the target. I’ve shot larger guns with more dispersion.
Is such a small gun good for your use? I don’t know. As an extremely discreet deep concealment gun, it certainly has a place -- just as it does for very fast close-range engagement.
But it’ll still do the job at distance, if you’re up to it.
