Like a friend with a new haircut or outfit, it is always interesting to revisit a familiar handgun that has returned with meaningful upgrades. The CZ P-10 C qualifies as an old friend, one that I…

If you’re in the market for a lever-action .357 rifle, there’s no shortage of options these days. I could be wrong, but there may be more centerfire lever-action rifles available today than at any…

The .410 shotgun shell cartridge should be recognized as one of the most remarkable revivals in modern firearms history. Introduced in 1874 as a small-game hunting round, it served as a training…

Originally published in April 2018. Updated February 2026. Smith & Wesson is continually improving pistols. One example over the years is the Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm Shield 2.0 with Integral Green…

Originally published July 2019, Updated March 2026 Sturm, Ruger & Co. has earned a well-deserved reputation for workmanlike, reliable firearms. Ruger has armed Americans for decades, even when good…

Springfield Armory introduced the Prodigy pistol as an enhanced, modern 1911, sometimes referred to as a 2011. The full-sized Prodigy DS (double stack) was the first model, featuring a grip frame…

For gun enthusiasts of all disciplines and skill levels, a rimfire handgun, specifically one chambered in .22 Long Rifle, should undoubtedly be part of your collection. Not only is .22LR amongst the…

The Ruger RXM is a collaboration between Ruger and Magpul designed to improve on the proven compact 9mm platform. With modern ergonomics, optics-ready capability and everyday carry dimensions, it…

In 1982, I became an undercover narcotics investigator with the Licking County Sheriff’s Office in Ohio, assigned to was then called the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Group (MEG). When I started on…

In the latter half of the 20th century, classifying handgun frame sizes was simpler because there were so few models available. Especially when examining semi-automatic pistols, narrowing down the…

When I evaluate any life-saving tool, I consider its application and performance under real conditions. Only hands-on testing answers questions. My evaluations draw on personal experience as well as documented manufacturer testing. Short-term range sessions are only a starting point, while extended firing in adverse conditions tells the real story.

Less-lethal self-defense weapons are tools designed to stop or deter an attacker without the intent to cause death. While often called “non-lethal weapons,” these tools, including pepper spray,…