STEYR ARMS C9-A1 9mm

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:26:00 -0500

STEYR ARMS C9-A1 9mm

Combat Handguns, May 2012

Posted by Jorge Amselle. Author Archive �
Images by Sean Utley

Austrian autopistol packed with performance!

The outstanding ergonomics of the Steyr Arms C9-A1 pistol make it one gun that can satisfy numerous roles for a variety of shooters.

The list of big-name firearms manufacturers that have been in continuous operation since the era of the American Civil War is not particularly long, but the few names that make the list are immediately recognizable to shooters worldwide. One of them is Austrian gunmaker Steyr Arms, also known as Steyr-Mannlicher.

Known best for its now-classic bullpup rifle, the AUG, the company was also an early developer of innovative autoloading semi-automatic pistols. So it is only fitting that Steyr continues to introduce new improvements in pistol design for American shooters. Based on the original M9 pistol, introduced in 1999, the newly improved Steyr Arms C9-A1 is a synthetic polymer-framed, striker-fired, recoil-operated, semiautomatic, in 9mm with 15+1 capacity.

The push button above the trigger of the C9-A1, which releases the takedown lever to disassemble the pistol, also functions as an internal lock for the action with the provided key.

I teach a lot of beginning shooters, and they all want the same thing�a gun that is good for personal protection in the home but could also fit their needs for concealed carry. Let�s face it, guns aren�t all that cheap to most folks and first time shooters don�t often buy multiple guns all at once. No one gun can be all things to all people but most of these first time buyers also want one gun that everyone in the family can comfortably use. In this regard the Steyr really stands out thanks to its ergonomics and other thoughtful touches.

The ultra-smooth, 5-pound double-action-only trigger of the C9-A1 helped the author obtain extremely good accuracy during testing.

... for more on this
pick up the May 2012 issue of Combat Handguns

Scout Rifle in Predator Xtreme

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 09:57:00 -0500

Steyr Mannlicher Scout, An Innovative Rifle Design That is Functional.

Steyr M9-A1 9mm

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 10:57:00 -0500

STEYR M9-A1 9mm

Posted by Dennis Adler. Author Archive �
Images by Steve Woods Radically advanced features make this duty gun fast and accurate!
The Steyr M9-A1 packs 17+1 rounds of 9mm in a compact package with innovative styling and safety features. Shown here with the SureFire X300 WeaponLight mounted. The Steyr M9-A1 is a gun that has, shall we say, been around the block, and has made a return to the forefront of the Steyr line of military and law enforcement models in just the last year. The M9-A1 design is distinctive, compared to a Glock, Sig Sauer or Smith & Wesson M&P semi-auto, in that the Steyr feels different in the hand than a more traditionally styled sidearm. The best word to describe that difference is �ergonomic,� a term more often associated with automobile interiors than handguns; but in the case of Steyr�s revised M9-A1, it�s a good word to use. At first glance the M9-A1 looks oddly shaped, appearing to increase in proportions from the breech to the muzzle. In other words, it looks wider at the front than the back. This is partially, but not entirely, an optical illusion due to the deep contours of the triggerguard and a sharply tapered frame that slants upward toward the grips. The backstrap is also deeply recessed to position the back of the frame higher over the hand, thereby creating a low barrel axis to help reduce muzzle flip. Once you pick this gun up, wrap your hand around it and take aim down the trapezoidal (triangular) sights, it all begins to make sense. This is a gun you absolutely have to handle before passing even the slightest judgment.
The Steyr uses a Glock-style trigger safety; a small, spring-loaded inner �paddle� housed inside the wide, outer trigger. Original Models
The Steyr Model M-A1 pistols, chambered in 9mm and .40 S&W, evolved from the original M-Series introduced in 1999. The M Series was Steyr�s first synthetic (polymer) frame semi-auto and the first model to use a Glock-style trigger safety system, which Steyr calls a �Reset Action Trigger.� In addition to the gun�s unusual shape, the M Series introduced Steyr�s patented triangular trapezoidal sighting system. It was an unconventional looking gun, but every feature proved to be exceptional, even the trapezoidal sights.
The grip of the M9-A1 is angled to position the firing hand high, keeping the bore axis low and helping tame perceived recoil. ... for more on this
pick up the January 2012 issue of Guns & Weapons

STEYR M9-A1, C9-A1, AND S9-A1 PISTOL SAFETY WARNING AND RECALL NOTICE

sobrien@steyrarms.com — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 14:33:00 -0500

STEYR M9-A1, C9-A1, AND S9-A1 PISTOL

SAFETY WARNING AND RECALL NOTICE

Steyr Arms, Inc. has determined a potential condition with the firing pins in a very limited number of 9mm Steyr M9-A1, C9-A1 and S9-A1 pistols that could possibly allow the pistol to fire without the trigger being pulled. Although Steyr Arms, Inc. has not received any reports of accidents or injuries, it is voluntarily initiating this recall to protect the safety of its customers because of the remote possibility of an unintentional discharge occurring.

The affected M9-A1 pistols bear serial numbers 3021926-3021928, 3021932-3021935, 3021946-3021955, 3021966-3021988, 3021990-3021993, 3021995-3022001, 3022003-3022005, 3024663-3024672, 3024683-3024688, 3024690-3024702, 3024704-4024712, 3024733-3024738, 3024741-3024742, 3024802-3024811, 3024852-3024871, 3024882-3024901, 3025299-3025308, 3025311, 3025313-3025333, 3025335-3025338, and 3025353-3025359.

The affected C9-A1 pistols bear serial numbers 3022128-3022145, 3022152, 3022169-3022171, 3022174, 3022176-3022178, 3022180-3022201, 3022203-3022218, and 3022845-3022854. The affected S9-A1 pistols bear serial numbers 3022929-3022931, 3022933, 3022935-3022937, 3022975-3022977, 3022988-3022991, 3022993, 3022995-3022996, 3024146-3024175 and 3024354. Only the M9-A1, C9-A1 and S9-A1 pistols with the serial numbers identified above are affected by this recall. If your pistol has a different serial number, it is not subject to the recall.

If you own a Steyr M9-A1, C9-A1 or S9-A1 pistol with a serial number identified as being affected by this recall, please do not load or fire your Steyr M9-A1, C9-A1 or S9-A1 pistol and contact us immediately to arrange to have the firing pin in your pistol replaced, free of charge, using the following steps:

Step 1 � Contact us at 205-655-8299 (Monday-Friday 8-5 Central Standard Time) or at www.steyrarms.com/contact and provide the model and serial number of your pistol. Step 2 � After confirming that your pistol is subject to this recall, we will send you a prepaid overnight shipping box with instructions so that you can return your pistol to us, free of charge. Step 3 � We will replace the firing pin in your pistol and return it to you overnight free of charge. We will make every effort to return your pistol to you within one week of receiving it. We apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause, and to thank you for your patience and cooperation, we will send you a free Steyr Arms soft pistol case or spare magazine when we return your pistol to you, whichever you prefer.

Steyr Arms C9-A1 Pistol

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 11:39:00 -0500

STEYR ARMS C9-A1 PISTOL

Posted by Jorge Amselle. New 9mm that straddles the line between a full-size duty pistol and concealed carry gun!
Steyr�s C9-A1 9mm pistol has an improved and smoother trigger with a very short reset for faster follow up shots. Performance Focused
The new C9-A1 seeks to straddle the line between a full-size duty pistol and a comfortable concealed carry or off-duty gun by combining elements of the two very successful designs�adding to the gun�s versatility. Steyr used the frame from its full-size duty pistol, with its larger magazine capacity and improved grip, and paired it with the slide and barrel from its
compact model. The most significant new feature is the dramatically improved trigger system. The redesigned Reset Action mechanism results in an incredibly smooth two-stage trigger with an extremely light first stage, which allows for prepping of the trigger, and an extremely crisp second stage with just the slightest amount of take-up. The trigger exhibited no overtravel and a very short reset with a 5-pound trigger pull that actually feels significantly lighter.
The limited access lock secures the pistol and retains the takedown lever. Steyr achieved this improvement over their already good trigger by using a small roller on a crosspin that can be seen on the frame below the rear sight. This roller intersects the striker firing pin and greatly smooths its travel, which results in the super clean break of the trigger. This change does, however, eliminate the loaded chamber indicator available in previous models since it relied on the same pin. This may be a feature that is missed by some, but no amount of indicators could ever replace proper safe gun handling and actual inspection of the chamber by the user. The sights themselves are drift-adjustable and come in the traditional three-dot pattern, which American shooters are used to�two white dots in the rear and one bright red dot on the front sight. This replaces Steyr�s standard triangle/trapezoid sights, but sticking with a more recognizable sight picture makes for easier training.

... for more on this
pick up the September 2011 issue of Guns & Weapons or visit www.tactical-life.com

Gun Test Magazine tests the Scout

Tue, 31 May 2011 10:45:00 -0500

Steyr Jeff Cooper Scout outperforms Ruger Gunsite Scout

STEYR SSG08 .338LM

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 11:10:00 -0500

STEYR SSG08 .338LM

Posted by Eduardo Abril De Fontcuberta. Author Archive �
Images by Steve Woods Our resident sniper trainer wrings out the newest bolt-action sureshot that�s packed with shooter-friendly features. With the US Optics SN-3 5-25X T-PAL scope and the standard 20MOA base, the only limitation is the .338LM ballistics. The 27.17-inch heavy forged barrel will keep the accuracy at sub-MOA and extract all the speed available on the big Lapua case�to a mile away and beyond! The SSG08 is, in many experts� opinion, one of the best .308 sniper rifles available. It has blown away its competitors in the Government trials where it has participated, against the best sniper rifles on the market. Considering it has been available a little over a year, that is a remarkable feat. If all goes well, politically, I have been told that there will be some very important contracts soon. Sadly, Steyr rifles have a hard time winning the hearts and minds of the U.S. operators and agencies, for some complex reasons�the most important a defamatory campaign by a British newspaper some years ago. The folding stock system has proven rugged on my .308 SSG08. After 1,500+ rounds, it shows absolutely no play. The new 338LM rifle has the same design. If you already are familiar with the SSG08, from shooting it or otherwise, take note: There are some new and important features in the new .338LM SSG08. New engineers are joining the team at Steyr, adding fresh blood to the already extensive experience of the design teams, and new ideas are coming on line. The SBS allows safe manipulation of the loaded gun and provides the action and barrel assembly with a bushing that will make it survive most overpressures, while keeping the shooter safe. Steyr is the only manufacturer offering sniper rifles with cold-hammer-forged barrels. Cold hammer forging is a process in which the barrel is forged over a mandrel that has the lands and grooves imprinted into it. This forms the barrel with incredible precision and increased hardness, compared to traditional rifling methods. SSG barrels are known for their superb accuracy, ease of cleaning and long life, due to this ultra fine interior barrel finish. As a side benefit, the process leaves a unique spiral mark all over the length of the barrel, a Steyr-Mannlicher trademark. Although these SSG08 barrels were incredibly accurate, they had a drawback: In my opinion they were too short.

... for more on this
pick up the March 2011 issue of Tactical Weapons

STEYR .40 A1 SERIES

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 12:30:00 -0600

STEYR .40 A1 SERIES

The full-size M40-A1 (right) is shown equipped with a SureFire X400 light/laser combo, while the compact S40-A1 (left) is fitted out with a Viridian C5 green laser/light combo. In 2001, I had an opportunity to evaluate the Steyr M9 9mm pistol. First released in 1999, it caused quite a stir with its racy lines and space-age sights. The M developed a small but loyal following over the next few years. The M40, in 40 S&W and the M357 in .357 SIG followed the 9mm model. In many ways, the M series was similar to the Steyr AUG. Shooters either loved it or hated it with very few having no opinion. The M9 shot well and held its own with the Glock 17 and S&W (Walther) 99. A compact series was later introduced with the �S� designation. Unfortunately, Steyr had some rough days ahead of them and the M and AUG became casualties. The company underwent a series of changes in ownership and leadership. The good news is that Steyr USA is back with the reintroduction of the AUG and now the A1 series. Gun Details

The M40-A1�s 4˝ barrel is cold-hammer forged with conventional rifling, and has a fully supported chamber in all calibers. In August 2010, Steyr announced the new M-A1 and compact S-A1 pistols. The new models feature several significant design upgrades from the original pistols. The A1 series continues to be a polymer framed, double-action-only, striker-fired pistol that is designed for military, law enforcement, and the civilian market and is available in 9mm or .40. I recently had an opportunity to try out a full-size M40-A1 and compact S40-A1 for myself. The new models have retained the distinctive profile of the original design. The angle of the grip to the frame is 111 degrees. When combined with the high grip backstrap,the design places the center axis of the bore lower than with other designs. The design also gives the M a very natural point of aim and reduced recoil and muzzle rise.
The S40-A1 is the compact variant of the design. Operationally, it is the same as its full-size M40-A1 sibling. The M-A1 pistols have a double trigger, or trigger within a trigger, that functions as an integrated safety. The trigger design has been upgraded to improve the feel over the older pistols�and the crunch and grit of the old trigger has been replaced with a smoother and lighter pull. This has been accomplished by redesigning the firing pin linkage and installing a roller in the firing pin channel.

... for more on this
pick up the March 2011 issue of Combat Handguns or visit Tactical-Life.com

Gun Test - Steyr S40-A1

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 21:10:00 -0600

courtesy of Pocket Pistols 2011 Magazine Ergonomics is most often associated
with describing automobile interiors,
but in the case of Steyr�s revised
M-A1 and S-A1 pistols, it�s a good word to
use because it applies to the way this gun fits
the hand. At first sight the S40-A1 (compact
.40 S&W model) looks ungainly, increasing
in proportions from the breech to the muzzle�
in other words wider at the front than
the back. This is partially an optical illusion
because of the triggerguard�s deep contour
and a tapered frame that is slanting upward
toward the grips. The backstrap is also deeply
contoured to place the back of the frame
higher over the hand, thereby creating a low
barrel axis to help reduce muzzle flip. Once
you pick this gun up, wrap your hand around
it and take aim down the trapezoidal sights,
ergonomic seems to be an appropriate word.
Gone and Back Again
The advanced Steyr Model S auto pistols,
chambered in 9x19 and .40 S&W were
first introduced in 2000 as a compact variant
of the M-A1 series. Both were evolved from
the original M series introduced in 1999 and
produced through 2002. The M series was
Steyr�s first synthetic (polymer) frame semiauto
and the first model to use a Glock-type
safety system which Steyr calls a �Reset Action
Trigger.� In addition to the gun�s unusual
shape, the M Series introduced Steyr�s patented
triangular trapezoidal sighting system,
something that takes a little getting used to.
It was an unconventional looking gun, but
every feature proved to be exceptional, even
the trapezoidal sights. The original M models
were updated in 2002 and 2004 (compact
S-A1 9x19 or .40 S&W, and M-A1 .357 SIG,
9x19, or .40 S&W), with the addition of a
Picatinny rail on the lower frame, a redesigned
magazine well, and a more rakish grip angle
of 111 degrees. Seeming to fly in the face
of market trends, the compact SA-1, with a
shorter grip and 3.6 inch barrel (vs. a 4-inch
barrel on the M-A1), was withdrawn from the
U.S. in 2002 after very limited importation.
The absence of the SA-1 and then MA-1,
also discontinued in the U.S. market, did
not go unnoticed, and calls began coming
in asking when Steyr would begin importing
them again. The better part of a decade
passed before calls to the company�s North
American division convinced Steyr management
in Austria that there was solid demand
for the M-A1 and S-A1 in the U.S. �Almost
every day for nearly two years, we received
calls and e-mails from customers asking
when we were going to bring back the Steyr
M- and S-Series pistols,� said Steyr Arms
CEO Scott O�Brian. The time is now.
Gun Details
While �compact� isn�t exactly the right word
to define the S-A1, it is smaller than the M-A1
in grip and barrel length. It is still a fairly large
gun, just a bit smaller than a Glock 23, which
is also regarded as a compact semi-auto. Ah
but the Steyr feels smaller in your hand, maybe
not so much in the holster, but a 10-round
.40 S&W can only be so compact. Where the
Steyr shines (which is hard with a black matte
finish) is in how it handles. Unless you have
very large hands, the grip angle and high rise frame allow plenty of room to account for all
three fingers around the grips; there is also
a perfectly contoured thumb rest (ambidextrous),
and a very smooth, curved approach
angle to the trigger. The one small issue is
the magazine release, for right-handers only,
and pretty hard to reach to drop an empty
magazine without using the off hand thumb,
or turning the gun sideways to hit the release
with the trigger hand thumb. A slightly larger,
angled ambidextrous release would be about
the only thing this guns needs.
The Steyr has one additional feature that
ranks as unique, an integrated limited access
lock that completely disables the firing
mechanism and prevents disassembly of the
gun. The locking mechanism is located directly
behind the large takedown lever on the
right side of the frame. The civilian version
uses a two prong key (law enforcement models
use a handcuff key) inserted into the lock,
which is then depressed and rotated 90 degrees
to the left. Once the key is removed the
gun is in Safe Condition 3. It takes about two
seconds to reverse the process with the key
and put the gun back into Safety Condition 1,
because the action must be cycled in order
to lock the gun. The same lock, minus the
key, is also depressed to lower the takedown
lever and field strip the gun for cleaning.
In terms of balance, the S40-A1 is nose
heavy and that is a good thing as it contributes
to the .40 S&W�s slightly more manageable
recoil. Trigger pull on the test gun averaged
5 lbs. 4 oz., with 1/2 inch of take up,
including the safety toggle. Weighing 1.5 lbs.
empty, 2 lbs. 1 oz. with a full 10-round magazine,
the Steyr is not much of a burden to carry
concealed. I used a Galco CM610 Combat
Master Belt Holster made for the Steyr M9
that works perfectly with the S40-A1. The
high rise of the holster keeps the gun close
to the side with a slight butt forward cant that
places the web of your hand right over the
grip frame contour. The gun clears leather
smoothly for a swift draw and presentation.
The Galco rig also fits the 4-inch barrel M-A1.
Test ammo was Federal 155-gr. JHP,
which cleared our ProChrono traps at 1,177
fps. Rapid fire from 15 yards placed 10
rounds in the center body mass of a B-27
silhouette at 4.25 inches; all within the 9, 10
and X. The best 5-round group measured
3.25 inches. Timed fire from 15 yards placed
10 rounds within 3.25 inches, and best 5 at
1.25 inches all within the 10 and X.
The Steyr�s triangular trapezoidal sighting
system is a marvel in bright light and
even with the heavy-hitting Federal .40 S&W
rounds, which produced more muzzle flip
than was anticipated, getting back on target
was easy.
Final Thoughts
Considering the 3.6-inch barrel length
and weight of the gun, the Steyr S40-A1
packing 10+1 rounds of .40 S&W acquitted
itself quite well. Fired off-hand at a distance
of 15 yards (45 ft.) and combined with a good
belt holster, like the Galco Combat Master,
the Steyr would make a first-rate concealed
carry sidearm.

STEYR HS-50M1

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 11:06:00 -0500

STEYR HS-50M1

Posted by Eduardo Abril De Fontcuberta. Author Archive � Superb heavy-hitting Austrian .50 BMG is now available as a repeater.
Fifty shooting dictates the need for some spec�ialized equipment such as PELTOR XS electronic ear protection, KESTREL 4500NV weather station a modular sniper data book. Without them you will not hit the target reliably and soon be deaf. As a Tactical Weapons European correspondent who specializes in long-range target interdiction and who was familiar with the HS-50 rifles, I was asked to give TW an exclusive test fire of this weapons system. As a professional long-range shooter, engaging targets that I can barely see is what interests me. How good a precision rifle is depends on how accurately it can shoot at 1,000 yards and beyond. Several years ago we had the chance to test the single-shot Steyr HS-50 and it was impressive. It was very accurate and possessed a pleasing quality feel, but it was only a single-shot weapon. Not having a detachable magazine is a serious drawback for many tactical applications. For most applications, including competition shooting, having a magazine well will not degrade accuracy measurably, and a repeater design offers the advantage of faster follow-up shots. Thus the single-shot Steyr HS-50 was not at the top of my .50-caliber wish list, and I was not alone. The Austrian Jagdkommando SOG, who fields the HS-50 single-shot to their African EUFOR Chad/CAR UN mission operators, although pleased with the superior accuracy of the rifle, asked to have a repeater capability. When I heard that Steyr was seriously considering adding a detachable magazine to its HS-50 I kept in contact with the factory for updates, and was pumped for an early opportunity to test fire the new repeater HS-50M1. Designed to shoot as far as the .50BMG 12.7�99mm cartridge will allow, with one of the longest barrels of any production .50-caliber rifle, the HS-50 can now be fed from a unique side-loading five-round magazine.
The 59-inch long HS-50M1 can report for long-range anti-materiel and counter-sniping duties on today�s battlefields. The laser-engraved Steyr
logo on the mags bottom plate reflects highlights the new side-loading magazine. The action latch is a vertical polished steel bar that adds to the swift reloading process. Examining the rifle from the muzzle rearward, you will find a 35-inch long, heavy, fluted, forged steel barrel. It contributes most of the rifle�s weight, and that is a good sign. It has been my experience, and this is corroborated by Austrian SF snipers, that with it you can shoot the 661-grain Multipurpose �Raufoss� bullet at more than 3,000 fps. That is much more than the 2,850 fps you obtain from the standard 29-inch .50-caliber military barrels and gives you an edge, whether shooting a Taliban at over a mile away, or targets at a 1,000-yard FCSA (Fifty Caliber Shooting Association) competition. Running these numbers on a LoadBase 3.0 ballistic software was even more impressive. Those extra 100 yards of supersonic flight may not seem like a lot, but going from 1,600 to 1,700 yards is not only a matter of getting some extra range, it means that at 1,000 yards you need 3.5 MOA less elevation and get a half MOA less deflection from a 10 mph wind. And that is a lot less, as any long-range shooter worth his salt knows. Best of all, these higly impressive numbers reflect just the standard MK211 military ammunition, which is not loaded very hot. I can�t even begin to anticipate the bullet speed that competition reloaders will get from this barrel, but this could surely mean the difference between merely a good and a record 1,000-yard shot grouping. The numbers are even more impressive with RUAG AP 664-grain ammunition which is supersonic up to 2,150 yards.

... for more on this
pick up the September 2010 issue of Tactical Weapons

Mission-Specific: Steyr's SSG 08

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:20:00 -0500

Courtesy of Shootingtimes.com. In 2009, Steyr introduced the SSG 08 bolt-action rifle as the answer to those requiring top accuracy from an out-of-the-box rifle. Clearly police and military agencies equipping specialized units benefit from rifles that are simply issued, sighted in, and deployed without needing any tweaks that might vary from one gun to the next. And while many of us civilians enjoy the process of tuning a rifle or finding just the right load, there are those who want a high performance rifle that works at its best, all the time, every time, right from the start--a rifle such as the SSG 08.

Design features of the SSG 08 were engineered to meet the specifications of Austria's EKO COBRA anti-terrorism unit. At the time of this writing, EKO COBRA reportedly has 449 men and one woman. Their specialized training includes tactics, shooting, rappelling and close quarters combat. Fail to qualify, and the candidate must leave the unit. COBRA's response time to an incident anywhere in Austria is less than 70 minutes, so their specialized firearms must be easily portable and may have to fit into the cramped confines of a helicopter or armored vehicle. And once on the scene, COBRA members may need a rifle capable of surgical precision to stop a terrorist or hostage taker without endangering innocent bystanders from misses.

One of the biggest design features of the SSG 08 is its aluminum stock that folds down along itself at the wrist to instantly reduce the rifle's overall length from 46 � inches to a more portable 38 � inches. It also features a cheekpiece adjustable for height over a range of 1 � inches with numbered indicator marks so different shooters can instantly and with repeatability adjust the stock height to center their eye in the scope while using a solid cheekweld. You can even adjust the side-to-side position and angle of the cheekpiece as much as � inch by way of two setscrews at its top, and slide its base forward or back along the length of the buttstock to suit individual length of pull and eye relief.

More stock adjustment is provided by a sliding buttplate to customize drop, and spacers to adjust length of pull. Moving forward on the stock is a pistol grip with interchangeable front- and backstrap inserts. Three backstrap inserts range from almost flat to positively hand filling, while the three frontstraps include smooth, one finger groove and three finger grooves options. All that may seem like a lot of moving parts on a rifle component most shooters want to be "rigid," but Steyr didn't skimp and use flimsy components on the SSG 08's stock. I used the sample SSG 08 over several months shooting from sitting at a bench and prone positions wearing everything from heavy winter clothing to shorts and tee shirt adjusting the stock accordingly for each condition and never experienced any parts slippage, and found the large hand knobs made adjusting between positions quick and easy. The fore end is fully free floated and ventilated with several attachment points for accessory rails on either side to provide convenient attachment points for the gluttony of tactical and "tacti-cool" accessories currently on the market. The sample came fitted with a three-inch rail on the right side and a six-inch rail on the left. There is also a full-length UIT rail in the bottom of the fore end. To read the rest of the article click here to go to the Shooting Times website.

July Newsletter-Steyr Arms to Import Pistol Again!

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 15:52:00 -0500

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Steyr Arms, Inc., July 2010

Steyr Arms Importing Additional Pistols!

We are pleased to announce that Steyr Arms will again import the Steyr MA-1 and SA-1 line of pistols starting in August. SAI will import additional quantities of both models in both a 9mm version as well as a .40 S&W. The MA-1 and the SA-1 were two of Steyr's best selling models, but the fall of the dollar versus the euro over the last several years caused the price point to escalate far too high to import. Internationally, the pistols sell for 610 Euro or over $800 at a 1.4 exchange rate. However, SAI felt the price point needed to be much lower to truly compete in the US market. Due to a bulk buying agreement with Austria and the recent rise of the dollar against the Euro, it became much more economical to import some additional pistols into the USA. Starting in August, SAI will be re-releasing both the MA-1 and SA-1 versions at a suggested retail price of $649. We are very excited to be able to offer these items again to the Steyr fanatics out there. Thank you for all of the emails and feedback over the last two years encouraging us to bring back the pistol! For more information about the pistol series, see your local Steyr retailer or call us at 205-655-8299. To see specs on the SA-1pistol click here. To see specs on the MA-1 pistol click here.

In this issue

Steyr Arms Importing Additional Pistols!

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Press Release- Commemorative Edition Jeff Cooper Package Unveiled!

mike@hunteroc.com — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 10:28:00 -0500

NEWS RELEASE

Colonel Jeff Cooper�s Signature Steyr Scout Returns In A Limited Edition Commemorative Package

TRUSSVILLE, Alabama (June 7, 2010) � Steyr Arms has announced an extremely limited production run of the Jeff Cooper Scout Rifle in a commemorative package. This package is in the Scout�s originally designed configuration as specified by legendary small-arms expert, author and founder of what would later become the Gunsite Training Center, United States Marine Corps Lt. Col. John Dean �Jeff� Cooper (1920-2006). Adorned with Col. Cooper�s �JC� crest-of-arms, the first rifle of this special run, serial number JC001, made its public debut at the 2010 NRA Annual Meetings in Charlotte, NC. Throughout much of the 1990s, Col. Cooper worked very closely with Steyr to produce what he would eventually consider to be the benchmark of his Scout rifle concept. As the ideal general-purpose rifle in the ideal general-purpose chambering, Col. Cooper�s requirements were exceptionally specific, and the resulting .308 Win. rifle was nothing short of brilliant when finally introduced in 1999. Still today, it stands as the ultimate testament to Col. Cooper�s meticulous understanding of firearms, tactics, ballistics and ultimate survival. Based on the Steyr SBS action fed by a 5-round detachable box magazine, the Scout carries on Col. Cooper�s legacy with a rifle weight of under 7.0 pounds. The rifle also includes a long-eye-relief, forward mounted 2.5X Leupold scope and a multipurpose Ching Sling. Overall length is kept to Col. Cooper�s maximum requirement of exactly one meter (39.4 inches). The polymer stock boasts a chameleon flip-forward bipod that solidly supports the rifle yet, when closed, transforms into an almost seamless traditional foreend. A UIT rail is nestled between the two bipod legs in their closed position, and a second box magazine is held in ready reserve along the bottom profile of the buttstock. The light-contour cold-hammer-forged barrel is fluted to further reduce weight, and it has a recessed match crown to maintain superb, sub-MOA accuracy. Flip-up auxiliary �Ghost-ring� iron sights provide a when-all-else-fails back-up to the Leupold optic. For the 2010 offering, Steyr�s Jeff Cooper Scout Rifle Commemorative Package is chambered in .308 Win., exactly as Col. Cooper conceived, and it sets in the original �Scout Gray� stock highlighted by the �JC� crest-of arms. A 2.5X 28mm Leopold Scout scope is attached to the integral top rail via Steyr mounts. An attached Galco Ching Sling is also inscribed with the �JC� crest, as is the Boyt TAC541 soft case and the Boyt H44 hard case. The latter also boasts the Steyr Arms logo. To finish off the package, a hardbound copy of Cooper�s Art Of The Rifle is also included. The package has an MSRP of $2,975. Serial numbers begin at JC0001, and sequential numbers are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Only 300 will be available. Established in 1864 in Steyr, Austria, Steyr Arms is one of the world�s oldest and most prestigious firearms manufacturers. Steyr�s comprehensive lines of premium hunting rifles and precision sporting and tactical firearms are technically mature, and their subtle elegance also communicates the harmony between appearance and substance. Steyr�s legendary SBS actions and cold-hammer-forged barrels are distinctive and unparalleled. For more information, contact Steyr Arms at 7661 Commerce Lane, Trussville, AL 35173; call (205) 655-8299; or visit www.steyrarms.com. # # # Steyr Arms Rifle Specifications Model: Jeff Cooper Commemorative Scout Purpose: General-purpose rifle Manufacturer: Steyr Mannlicher GmbH Kleinraming, Austria Importer: Steyr Arms, Inc. 7661 Commerce Lane Trussville, AL 35173 (205) 655-8299 www.steyrarms.com Operation: Bolt-action repeating rifle Caliber: .308 Winchester Action material: 25CrMo4 steel Magazine type/capacity: Polymer double-stack detachable box/10 rounds Barrel: 20-inch Rifling: Four-groove, 1:12 RH twist Sights: Flip-up iron sights; integral top rail Finish: Mannox� Safety: 3+1 position safety Trigger type: Single-stage Pull weight: 4 pounds, 8 ounces (user adjustable) Stock material/type: Scout Gray polymer with integrated bipod & UIT rail Recoil pad: Elastomer Sling swivels: Five removable push-and-turn-style positions available (two included) Checkering: None Weight, empty: Rifle 6.6 pounds, total package 7.9 pounds Overall length: 39.4 inches Included accessories: Leupold 2.5X 28mm Scout Scope, Galco Ching Sling, Boyt soft case, Boyt hard case, Steyr scope mounts, Art Of The Rifle by Col. Jeff Cooper, one extra magazine, owners manual MSRP: $2,975 *Digital images available upon request. Contact Kimi Herndon at kimi@hunteroc.com or Karen Lutto at Karen@hunteroc.com.

Long-Shooter Showdown

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 13:25:00 -0500

The Steyr Arms SSG69, Kimber 84M LPT, and Ruger Hawkeye Tactical rifle all hit their marks. Picking between them is a matter of choosing which features you must have to shoot only one shot.

Tactical bolt-action rifles are pretty easy to spot. Typically, they utilize a composite stock with pronounced pistol grip, oversize bolt handle and fire from a heavy barrel. The military models are camouflage or earth tone in color, and the law-enforcement models are usually black. Accuracy, strength, and simplicity are key attributes. Can a tactical rifle serve as a hunting rifle? We�re not saying one can�t. It�s just that a tactical rifle typically weighs more than a hunting model. The heavy barrel enhances the ability to maintain accuracy throughout repeat fire and excessive heat. In addition, tactical rifles tend to be more suitable for longer distance shots and offer ergonomics that favor the prone position or other means of support. Compared to hunting rifles that feature adornments such as engravings or fancy wood, the tactical rifle is stark and businesslike. In this test we evaluate three rifles chambered for 308 Winchester aimed at the law-enforcement market. Our three test rifles are the $1315 Kimber 84M LPT, the $1899 Steyr Arms SSG69 PII, and Ruger�s $1172 Hawkeye Tactical No. HM77VLEH. All three rifles featured full-float barrels and black synthetic stocks. Our test procedure was straightforward. Shooting from bench support we fired groups at paper targets placed 100 yards downrange. Beyond accuracy data, we judged each rifle as a total package after taking careful note of characteristics displayed by the trigger and the bolt. We also wanted to know how willingly each rifle took to the shoulder and related to a variety of support. Each rifle was fired from sandbags, a mechanical rest, from prone position and seated with bipod support. When it came to choosing optics for our test, we weighed the advice of one staffer who had taken the p o s ition that he would rather own one good expensive scope than have several lesser optics, so we shot all the guns with a $1783 Nightforce 5.5-22X50mm NXS scope (www.nightforceoptics.com). Fitted with an illuminated mildot reticle, this scope has been in use by one of our long-range specialists for more than two years. The open-face mildots, which appear as small loops, have proven helpful when determining elevation for targets at an undetermined distance. We mounted the 31-ounce scope using 30mm Nightforce rings fit with half-inch bolts. The use of a 65-inch-pound torque wrench made fast work of swapping the scope from one rifle to another.
Test ammunition included three selections of factory ammunition. We recorded five-shot groups firing Remington 180-grain Nosler Partition No. PRP308WB, Remington 168-grain Boat Tail Hollow Point Match No. R308W7, and 175-grain Boat Tail Hollow Point rounds from Black Hills Ammunition. Making use of the powerful Nightforce scope, we were able to use small target dots from Birchwood Casey measuring little more than 1 inch across. We also fired three-shot groups of some of our favorite handloads developed for lower recoil and accuracy at moderate distance. Our handloaded ammunition consisted of filling each cartridge case with an identical charge of IMR 4064 powder atop Winchester Large Rifle primers. We then seated three different bullets from Sierra (www.sierrabullets.com). They were the 165-grain Spitzer Boat Tail bullets No. 2145, 165-grain boat tail hollow points No. 2140, and the 150-grain Spitzer bullets No. 2130. Each rifle was fired to produce a single three-shot group with each handload. Weather conditions varied during our 9 a.m. to noon sessions, with calm winds in the morning and gusts exceeding 10 mph toward midday. Each rifle was treated to a break-in regimen of one shot and clean; two shots and clean; three shots, clean; four shots, clean; and finally five shots and clean. With little interference from the weather, we think we were able to accurately assess each of our test rifles. We think each of our test rifles was exceptional divided primarily by shooter preference. Let�s shoot each rifle and see which one might be your favorite.

Steyr Arms SSG69 PII 308 Winchester, $1899

Its flat-black Parkerized 25.6-inch barrel was the longest of the trio, and its muzzle was double-crowned, recessed and polished. The outer edge of the muzzle was beveled about 45 degrees. This contour was designed to reduce the chance of foliage grabbing on and perhaps fouling the bore. The top of the Parkerized steel action was milled to accommodate a quick detachable scope mount (supplied). The bolt handle was oversized, and the throw was short and positive. The action was housed in a one-piece synthetic stock that was understated if not somewhat ominous in appearance. It gave off a hollow sound when we tapped on it. But before we could be turned off by this characteristic, we began to appreciate what this stock had to offer. The sides of the stock from the inlet for the bolt handle forward were nearly vertical. Checkering was molded in along the first 10 inches of fore end. The barrel was distinctively floated, leaving a gap of about 0.10 inches between the fore end and the barrel. The tip of the fore end was fit with a sling loop that swiveled a full 360 degrees beneath the barrel. The bottom side of the fore end was fit with an internal rail suitable for mounting another sling stud or attachment for a bipod. The rail was long enough to mount multiple accessories. Given the long barrel, we think the SSG69 PII was the best bet for some really long shots, and this rail could also be used to mount a thumb stop for competitive shooting. The Steyr rifle fed from a detachable box magazine that held five rounds. Its rotary design made it compact and allowed it to fit flush with the bottom of the stock. The sides of the magazine were clear so we could count the amount of rounds inside. The magazine could be snapped into place or the release tabs could be pressed as the magazine was inserted for silent loading. The magazine-release tabs were located on the magazine itself and not on the receiver. One magazine was supplied, but extras can be purchased from www.steyrarms. com for $69 each.
The pistol grip was liberally checkered, flaring outward at the cap on the lower end. The comb of the buttstock was flat rather than raised and neutral in profile from the comb downward. But the left side of the stock was relieved with a channel and connecting point for a sling. A sling the width of one inch or less should fit flush, but this could still interfere with the cheek of a right-handed shooter. The buttpad consisted of a plastic mount covered by a thin convex layer of rubber. Nevertheless, we rated shock absorption as being adequate. Beneath the buttpad were three shims that meshed to produce a maximum length of pull (LOP) measuring about 13.8 inches. Each shim added about 0.33 inches to LOP. We tried removing all three shims and replacing the buttpad, but the two slot head screws that held the butt pad in place were too long and protruded from the rear. Shorter screws were not supplied, so a trip to the hardware store would be called for to solve this. The safety was located directly behind the arm of the bolt on the righthand side of the receiver. It had a rather long, hard throw to it, at least before any break-in that might ease its movement. The motion was back for Safe, exposing a white dot, and forward to Fire, leaving a red dot visible on the receiver. The rear half of the lever-face was lined and raised to accept being pushed. The forward half was scalloped to create a hook-like surface so it could be pulled more easily to the rear. Safety-on not only seized the trigger but also locked down the bolt. Once in action, movement of the bolt was piston like, short and smooth. There was really no way to be sloppy with this bolt or bind its motion by jerking it up, down, or side to side. Removing the bolt required dropping the magazine and clearing the chamber. With the safety in the fire position, the bolt Kimber 84M LPT 308 Winchester, $1315 was pulled to the rear. Pressing the trigger released the bolt. Installing the bolt was as simple as re-inserting it into its channel. The Steyr featured a two-stage trigger which, as de-livered, presented about 3.75 pounds of resistance. The weight of the trigger pull could be adjusted by turning a screw located directly behind the trigger. The owner�s manual warns that too light a trigger pull may cause unintentional discharge. The amount of slack in the take-up of the trigger can also be adjusted by turning the screw located on the front of the trigger. Too little slack could also produce an unintentional discharge. We liked the trigger as delivered. There was plenty of feel and feedback from the moment of taking up slack to the point of let-off. It is common to point to characteristics such as rate of barrel twist when explaining that one rifle or another is better with say, lighter bullets rather than heavy ones. Certainly the Steyr hammer-forged barrel did its job, but we think the consistent trigger rich with feedback was the reason why all three of our factory-loaded rounds with bullets ranging in weight from 165 grains to 180 grains produced five-shot groups measuring between 0.8 inches and 0.9 inches across. Our handloaded ammunition did underline the Steyr�s preference for medium to heavier-weight bullets. The 150-grain bullets printed about a 1.2-inch wide group on average. But our 165-grain handloads delivered groups measuring 0.5 inches and 0.6 inches across. Our Team Said: The SSG69 PII offered sophistication and simplicity all in the same rifle. A bottom rail suitable for a light or sling or even a thumb stop provides versatility. A flushfit removable magazine, short-throw piston-like bolt and little things like a usable contour applied to the safety are the types of features that professionals appreciate. The long barrel helps produce additional velocity, favoring longer distance applications.

Kimber 84M LPT 308 Winchester, $1315

The Kimber 84M LPT (Light Police Tactical) rifle is a weapon that makes an immediate visual impression. The black synthetic stock was solid with a matte pebbled finish. The fore end and pistol grip were knurled to improve grip. This pattern camouflaged the block letters LPT along the fore end. Our Kimber rifle was built for right-handed shooters. The oversize pistol grip was further enhanced by a palm swell on the right side. The left side of the comb was built up, offering a broad expansive wall on which to rest the cheek. But the right side of the comb was abbreviated, producing a sharp edge for the left-handed shooter. As we went to press we learned that the 2010 84M LPT models would feature a neutral profile to its comb and butt stock. It just so happened that our test shooter, an accomplished NRA High Power competitor, was left handed. He did not find this bias difficult to overcome but remarked that the change to a neutral profile stock was welcome news. The bottom of the stock was fit with one sling stud to the rear and two sling studs up front. These can be used to attach a bipod on one and the top of the sling to the other. The right side of the stock was relieved for the bolt handle, but the knob was oversize, tapering to one full inch at the end cap. A five-round internal magazine with floor plate release located inside the trigger guard at the lower end of the forward arc capped the bottom of the action. Above the action was a sturdy, clean-looking one-piece scope mount. At first our staff reported that it took some extra care to load the rifle on a single round basis because of the way the scope mount crossed the breech. But another member of our staff who does a lot of Practical Pistol competition remarked that it reminded her of a magazine well. Indeed, the center of the mount did not simply lie horizontally across the opening. Instead it offered a smooth 90-degree arch that could be used to guide the round into place. To illustrate, we found it possible to tilt the rifle with the bolt closed, chamber empty, place a fresh round on top of the bolt and load the breech by pulling back the bolt. The round would roll off the underside of the mount and fall into place ahead of the bolt. We doubt this procedure will find its way into the owner�s manual but it might show up in a movie someday. The bolt had a moderately long throw, but the huge bolt handle gave us plenty of leverage, enough to make it fun. A three-position safety was mounted on the right. Swept fully to the rear, it locked both the trigger and the bolt. The intermediate position prevented the trigger from moving but allowed the bolt to be manipulated. With the safety pushed fully forward, the rifle was ready to fire. Despite weighing just 5 ounces less than the Steyr rifle, the barrel of the Kimber was only about 1.6 inches shorter. This is because the Kimber LPT varied from the standard Tactical profile by working through a Sporter style barrel. This means that the barrel was tapered from the receiver to its smallest diameter at the muzzle. In addition, the surface of the barrel was fluted. By milling indentations into the surface of the barrel that run lengthwise over the bore the barrel not only becomes lighter but introduces more surface area from which to disperse heat. The crown of the barrel was recessed only by the subtle convex profile at the front of the barrel. The most remarkable aspect of this 9.2-pound rifle was its balance. It felt like the lightest weight rifle in the test. The trigger on our Kimber was the only single-stage action among our three rifles. The face of the trigger was highly polished, and its tight arc seemed to grab our trigger finger. There was no take-up in this trigger, just a crisp snap. Although it weighed in at 3.0 pounds, we think this is the kind of trigger we hope to obtain when we send a rifle to a top custom gunsmith. According to the owner�s manual the trigger is adjustable for over travel, depth of sear engagement and weight of pull. But the manual does not instruct how to make adjustments and warns against changing the factory setting. We don�t think the trigger could be improved anyway. We wondered if the trigger would pay off at the shooting bench and if there would be any adverse effect such as vibration from the narrow profile barrel. Our handloading team remarked that barrel vibration is a characteristic that can be taken into account when preparing ammunition. But we needn�t have worried. Our handloads delivered groups of 0.4 inches, 0.5 inches and 0.6 inches respectively for the 165-grain Boat Tail, 165-grain Boat Tail Spitzer, and 150-grain Spitzer bullets from Sierra. The Kimber showed a distinct preference for the 168-grain Boat Tail hollow points from Remington, averaging just over 0.7 inches across for five shots. Given the 1:12 inch twist to the barrel we might have predicted these results in comparison to our test ammunition topped with heavier bullets. Our 175-grain and 180-grain factory loads produced groups that averaged about 1.1 inches across. Modern law enforcement rounds typically featuring light to moderate weight bullets should excel in the Kimber LPT rifle. Our Team Said: The superb balance of the 84M LPT made this 9-pound rifle much easier to handle. The stock featured the best pistol grip, and we loved the texture of the synthetic material. Five-round internal magazine capacity should satisfy those who would prefer a removable magazine. The latest version of this rifle will forego the bias of a one-sided raised comb. Hopefully the super match-quality single-stage trigger will remain.

Ruger Hawkeye Tactical No. HM77VLEH 308 Winchester, $1172

Of our three rifles the Ruger Hawkeye Tactical cut the most familiar profile. But that doesn�t mean it was plain. The Ruger was fit with a true bull barrel measuring 20 inches in length. The muzzle was double crowned and recessed about 0.035 inches. The outer edge of the barrel was beveled. The barrel and receiver are listed on the www.ruger.com website as being finished in Hawkeye Matte Blue, but these parts were a match for the black color of the stock. The receiver was machined with a proprietary scope base for fitting a set of Ruger scope rings, which were supplied. The bottom of the receiver was capped by a hinged floor to provide secondary access to the four-round magazine. The Ruger logo was imprinted in a shiny hologram-type etching on the floor plate. The floorplate release was located outside the trigger guard. We found it somewhat difficult to press, but once the release was pushed, your finger was in position to hold the spring-loaded floorplate in check. This gave us the ability to control the floorplate and catch the rounds as they dropped. In this way, unloading the magazine could be performed with one hand. The bolt, bolt handle, and trigger were each satin stainless in color. The bolt release was a lever to be pulled outward from the left side of the receiver. The hinge was rearward so you reached to the front of the lever to operate it. The safety was located on the right to the rear of the bolt handle. This entire area was also colored Hawkeye matte blue. As a result the vertical line of the satin stainless bolt handle created a distinctive accent. The safety operated in three positions, including forward to fire and fully rearward to lock down the bolt and seize the trigger. The middle position held the trigger in check but allowed the operator to work the bolt. The bolt handle itself was flattened and much of it, save the ball on the end, was seated well below flush with the side of the stock. Perhaps the most notable feature of the Ruger Hawkeye Tactical rifle was its stock. This was the Hogue Overmolded stock (www.getgrip.com). The Overmolded stock consists of three main components. A rigid fiberglass reinforced skeleton to suit the action, aluminum pillar bedding, and a synthetic elastomer (rubber) that is ejection molded to form the outer shape. Hogue offers this technology for several types of rifles including the Ruger Minis and the AR-15 as well as bolt-action models. The stock on our Hawkeye Tactical featured Hogue�s exclusive cobblestone texture applied to the pistol grip and along the fore end area. But we found the Overmolded material provided enhanced grip without being tacky throughout its entire surface. Dual sling studs were mounted up front and a single stud to the rear. The buttpad was the thickest and far and away the most effective among our three rifles. The most comfortable rifle to shoot, we think the entire body of the Overmolded stock helped absorb recoil. The overall feel of the gun was short and maneuverable.
At the range we learned that the Hawkeye Tactical had a very nice two-stage trigger, breaking at about 3.5 pounds. This was the Ruger LC-6 trigger. No mention of adjustability was made in the owner�s manual and no point of adjustment was visible. The bolt action was quite long and not as smooth or as steady as we would have liked. Once the bolt was fully to the rear it could be moved up and down or side to side. The key to a smooth stroke was not to forcibly tug it fully to its stop. Once the bolt face passed the bolt opening, we learned to let momentum carry it the final inch of throw. This technique helped us avoid moving the bolt off its true horizontal path. Relying upon wrist motion instead of arm strength helped us cycle the Ruger much faster. But it�s what happens when the bolt is closed that really counts. Remington�s 168-grain Boat Tail hollow point match was the top factory round overall with a 0.4 inch group. Average group size for this round was computed to little more than 0.6 inches. The Hawkeye�s barrel was rated at a 1:10 inch twist. This generally favors heavier bullets, but the Black Hills 175-grain bullets produced a 1.1 inch average and the 180-grain Remington rounds averaged 0.7 inches. Our handloads gave us the best results. The 150-grain Sierra Spitzer rounds produced a 0.6 inch group and the 165-grain Sierra BTHP rounds landed in a 0.5 inch pattern. The best overall group of the test was nearly one hole. Hits from the 165-grain Sierra Spitzer Boat Tail slugs formed an elliptical pattern measuring about 0.2 inches across. The Spitzer is a popular hunting bullet so that underscores our assertion that a good tactical rifle can serve as a good hunter as well.
Our Team Said: We had to pay more attention to cycling the bolt to move quickly, but the accuracy provided by the Hawkeye Tactical was superb. Credit the smooth LC-6 two-stage trigger and the short, heavy barrel featuring 1:10 rate of twist. The Hogue Overmolded stock reduced recoil substantially and made it look easy, too. Adding a removable magazine system was our only wish. The short overall length of the Hawkeye Tactical likely makes it the best choice for keeping in the back of the patrol car. Article courtesy of www.gun-tests.com

Steyr Scout Re-Examined

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 13:53:00 -0600

Here is what American Hunter had to say about the Scout Rifle. http://www.americanhunter.org/ArticlePage.aspx?id=2214&cid=58

The Steyr Elite 08

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 13:43:00 -0600

Here is what the American Rifleman had to say about the Elite 08. http://www.americanrifleman.org/ArticlePage.aspx?id=2062&cid=3

Return of the Steyr Aug

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 13:32:00 -0600

Guns Magazine: Surplus Locker, Feburary 2010 Short, compact, odd-looking but distinctive, Steyr�s 5.56mm AUG (Armee Universal Gewehr) has been the most successfully received of all the military bullpup designs. Adopted in 1978 by Austria, the AUG is the official arm of a number of countries, most notably Australia and New Zealand. The original semi-automatic model of the AUG was never imported in great quantity and was relatively pricey at the time when compared to Colt AR-15s selling for less than $800. Frankly, the AUG has been sorely missed in the milsurp stream for many years, and collector prices for existing examples have been approaching the stratosphere. Well, Steyr�s fixing that problem with the introduction of their new, semi-auto AUG/A3 SA USA, manufactured and assembled under contract by Sabre Defense Industries of Nashville, Tenn. Picking up the new AUG reminds you just how ergonomic the overall design is. With an overall length of just 28" and weighing 7.8 pounds, the AUG has a handling dynamic all of its own. Your hands naturally cradle the stock. All the essential controls are at your finger tips, except for the magazine and magazine release. Once you�ve handled and shot an AUG, you realize just how much sense the bullpup design makes.

Simplicity And Common Sense

By virtually eliminating the buttstock and replacing it with the receiver itself, the design immediately shrinks the overall length of a rifle or carbine by at least 7" to 10". When you�re loaded down with body armor, a backpack and munitions and probably cramped up inside a Humvee or chopper, a compact weapon is a distinct advantage. It�s no accident the telescoping-stocked M4 has emerged as the hands down favorite of American troops. Designed in the 1970s at Steyr Mannlicher GmbH & Co., the AUG was conceived as a modular and ambidextrous 5.56mm rifle, carbine or light machinegun. Composed of six main components�the barrel, receiver group, bolt group, stock group, trigger group and magazine�the AUG can be disassembled into those modular components without tools in a minute. The key component in switching from let�s say, a rifle into a carbine, is the AUG quick-change barrel assembly. In seconds, you can pull a 20" rifle barrel and install a 16" carbine barrel. Similarly, to configure the AUG for a right- or left-handed shooter, you can change from right- or left-hand ejection by simply swapping out the bolt and the ejection port lids. The AUG is powered by a short-stroke, gas piston system which is adjustable to compensate for cold weather or severely fouled conditions. The 7-lug rotary bolt is carried and cammed into battery by a bolt carrier that reciprocates within the receiver on two hollow steel rods containing the return springs.

Synthetics

In the construction of the AUG, Steyr has made maximum use of synthetics and composites. The stock is molded from a fiberglass-reinforced polymer. The receiver is made from a steel-reinforced aluminum extrusion, and the modular fire control system, housed under the buttplate, consisting of the hammer and sear, is composed entirely of plastics with the exception the mainsprings and pivot pins. I have a hunch Gaston Glock learned a few things from Steyr Mannlicher! The new semi-automatic AUG/ A3 SA USA model with its 16" barrel can be classified as a carbine within the AUG family. Gone is the earlier model�s distinctive, integral carrying handle incorporating a 1.5X scope sight made by Swarovski. Instead the �A3� model incorporates two universal (MIL-STD-1913) Picatinny ribs. One rib forms a conventional �flattop� on the top of the receiver for sighting devices. The other is a short rib on the right side of the receiver for auxiliary accessories.

Sighting

For testing purposes, I mounted Burris latest FF30 TACT scope in their tactical high rings. The Burris FF30 TACT scope features a 30mm tube, 3-9x40mm optics and repeatable target adjustment knobs. With the straight, high comb of the AUG, high rings are almost a necessity. The new AUG proved to be very tight. Tolerances are obviously being held to a minimum. As I used the AUG, the non-reciprocating charging handle, called a �cocking slide�, became easier to work because the bolt carrier was obviously wearing in a bit. So, too, the polymer trigger seemed to smooth out over time.

Trigger

Speaking of triggers, the challenge in any bullpup design is the trigger. How do you mechanically link a forward mounted trigger to a rear mounted sear and achieve an acceptable trigger pull? In the AUG, the designers used a double- ended, U-shaped rod running from the trigger along both sides of the frame and around the magazine well to connect to the front arms of the sear at two points. The distance from the trigger to the sear is approximately 9-1/2". The result, a long, mushy, trigger pull, breaks very cleanly but at a weight-of-pull of 10-3/4 pounds. The consistency of the break point makes the heavy trigger of the AUG manageable, but it takes some getting used to. There is no forearm to the AUG bullpup design. In its place is a foldable, vertical, barrel grip. With the short 16" barrel, actually 18" with the flash hider, it�s important to keep your hand on the grip and not forward of it. With your hand on the vertical grip, your flesh is only 1" away from the gas regulator exhaust port and 4" away from the rear vent of the flash hider/muzzlebrake. At the range, I used a rear bag under the butt and a folded towel between the heel of my forward gripping hand and the bench. It proved to be a very stable position. The chrome-lined barrel is hammer forged with a 1:9" twist and so marked. A sensible compromise of a twist, it can handle either 55-grain M193 ammunition or 62-grain SS109 rounds, however, the AUG seemed to favor sporting over military ammunition.

Ammo Shortage

Unfortunately, at the time of the test, no SS109 ammunition was available, but there was plenty of M193 around. Shooting 3-shot groups at 100 yards, the AUG grouped both IMI M193 and CorBon 55-grain FMJ into 3-1/2". I thought it could do better than that, and it did. Hornady 55-grain Varmint Express and Winchester 55-grain Ballistic Silvertip averaged 2", and then it got even better. Federal 55-grain Hi-Shok averaged 1-1/2" while the absolute best groups were turned in by Hornady 40-grain Varmint Express averaged 3/4" to 1". That gave me an idea. A pair of local coyotes had been living off Coues white-tail fawns all summer and needed to be sorted out. Disassembling and blocking the 30-round, translucent AUG magazine to a 5-round capacity, I loaded it up with Federal 55-grain Hi- Shok and took the AUG hunting. As I discovered, the neat quality of the AUG as a varmint calling rifle is its compact size. You can hunker down and hide in very heavy brush and still be able to quickly manipulate and fire the carbine in any direction. Taking a stand, I turned up the volume on my Hunter Specialties� Johnny Stewart varmint caller and lowered the boom on the male of the pair as he came charging in. Sweet success! It may be the first coyote taken with the new AUG, but it won�t be the last. If you�re getting a bit jaded with the endless variations of the AR-15 platform being offered, you will find the AUG bullpup a breath of fresh air. Retaining all the elements of its military antecedents, it has also proved to be a handy hunting rifle and a lot of fun to shoot.

STEYR AUG A3 SA .223

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:04:00 -0600

Guns & Weapons for Law Enforcement, Feb. 2010

Images by Steve Woods

Austria�s universal army rifle on U.S. soil � a first rate ENTRY WEAPON! The Steyr AUG A3 SA USA is a bullpup design based on the original Steyr AUG dating back to the early 70s. Various versions of the AUG are in use by military, police and special operations units all over the world. AUG stands for Armee Universal Gewehr or in Yankee language, �universal army rifle.� The �SA� version of the A3 rendition of this weapon system designates it as semi-automatic only and unless you�re living on some other planet, you should be able to glean that USA means the rifle is intended for sale in the United States. In case you�re unfamiliar with the term bullpup and how it relates to firearms, it is used to describe a firearm where the action and magazine are located behind the trigger. The primary advantage of this configuration is conservation of space. By incorporating the action in the buttstock the overall length of the rifle is reduced considerably. For example, the total length of a Steyr AUG with an 18.38-inch barrel (including flash hider) is only 28 inches, compared to about 36 inches for an AR with the same barrel length. Another advantage of the AUG is that its operating handle is on the left side of the weapon, similar to a Heckler & Koch MP 5. This may not seem like a big deal but this permits the operator to manipulate the action with his non-firing hand while the rifle is still on his shoulder and shooting hand on the grip with finger poised over the trigger. Gun Details
To black rifle aficionados familiar with the AR platform this rifle will seem radical to the point of extreme, and not just because of the bullpup design. A couple features bear mentioning. There is a vertical foregrip that can be folded up by pulling down on the grip and pushing it forward. The safety is large and positioned behind the trigger and directly opposite the opposing thumb. The magazine release is located under the buttstock, behind the magazine and is perfectly positioned so that you depress the release with the thumb of your left hand as you remove the magazine. The bolt release is on the left side of the buttstock, just above the magazine release. And as mentioned, the operating handle is also on the left side of the rifle and when fully retracted, the operating lever can be folded up, locking the bolt to the rear. On top of the barrel there is a raised, 10-inch section of Picatinny rail and on the right side of the lower receiver there is another 2-inch section of rail for accessory mounting. Sling swivels are included on the right rear of the buttstock and just forward of the above-barrel Picatinny rail. The rear sling-swivel stud is integral to the disassembly process and when just partially depressed, allows for the removal of the buttpad for access to a cleaning kit, which is stored in the buttstock. The rifle can be completely field stripped in a matter of seconds, but comes apart in a manner so bizarre you will question the process even as you�re doing it for the tenth time. With the exception of the barrel, none of the parts look like what you think they should. What really amazed me when I field stripped the rifle after firing 200 rounds was how incredibly clean all the internal parts were. There�s no question this is a radical design conceived by someone thinking outside the box. The Steyr AUG A3 SA USA I was provided for testing came equipped with an Austrian made optic which is a genuine Steyr accessory that retails for $799. It was a 1.5�14mm, tactical-style scope with a crosshair/circle reticle. Externally, the scope has a Picatinny rail on top for the mounting of additional accessories. Since this was the way the rifle was supplied, most of the shooting was conducted in this configuration. Shooting Impressions
Five different loads were tested from the bench at 50 yards and the average group size for all 15 groups fired was 1.37 inches. This may not seem all that impressive but keep two things in mind. For one, this is a combat weapon designed to shoot bad guys not prairie dogs and two; the coarse reticle and low magnification scope made precision shooting, even at 50 yards, tedious. Like most tactical optics, the Steyr scope mounted directly to the Picatinny rail. The difference was in the screws used. These required a special wrench that is supplied with the rifle. I removed the Steyr scope and installed a Tactical Leupold Mark 4 MR/T 1.5-5�20mm with their SPR reticle. I then fired several more groups at 50 yards with a couple different loads. For those that are all wrapped up in accuracy, the thinner reticle and 5x magnification reduced group sizes, on average, by about a quarter of an inch. Where the AUG really excelled was in fast action drills on targets between five and 50 yards, especially when multiple shots were fired at each target. The weapon was very controllable and I was able to double-tap targets with blinding speed and still get good hits. A SWAT officer who assisted in the testing was impressed with the speed at which multiple hits could be obtained too, especially when multiple targets were engaged. We both found the Steyr AUG to point naturally and be very controllable during sustained, rapid fire. The assisting SWAT officer also liked the extreme compactness of the AUG commenting, �It would make a first rate entry weapon.� I agree, and think this the true forte of this weapon system. It�s compact and easy to control with the shooting hand and one of the few tactical type rifles with a barrel longer than 16 inches that will still permit the operator to use his off-hand to manipulate doors or deal with combatants or suspects while still keeping the rifle on shoulder and orientated at the threat. During the testing, which involved firing 400 rounds of a variety of ammunitions; there were no malfunctions, period.

The US Made Steyr AUG A3 SA

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:37:00 -0600

Black Guns, Feb. 2010 Images by Steve Woods Based upon the famous Austrian design and made here in the United States, the new 5.56x45mm AUG offers U.S. shooters an irresistible bullpup. Many readers may already be familiar with the Austrian AUG rifle (Armee Universal Gewehr, or universal army rifle). However, many may not yet know about the new and improved Steyr AUG-A3, a weapon manufactured in the U.S., thereby avoiding the import restrictions placed on foreign weapons. The Steyr AUG is an Austrian bullpup 5.56mm assault rifle, designed by Steyr Mannlicher GmbH & Co, formerly of the Steyr-Daimler-Puch conglomerate. The AUG was adopted by the Austrian Army as the StG 77 (Sturmgewehr 77) in 1977, replacing the much older and heavier StG 58. The rifle has been a tremendous commercial success, adopted by the armed forces of more than 35 countries. Germany acquired the AUG for their Spezialeinsatzkommando, while the Australian Defense Force chose it for their primary rifle. Additionally, New Zealand, Bolivia, Ecuador, Ireland, Luxembourg, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Oman�even the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency�among others, use the weapon in some capacity. In the 1980s, the AUG was gaining market share within the new Tactical Match niche and 3-Gun competitions. King at the time was the AR-15 HBAR with an ACOG or COLT 4X scope. Yet, the Steyr is a more compact, reliable and accurate rifle. Its integrated sight went a step beyond anything on the market back then and the quick-change barrel was also advanced. Most notable, however, was how stable and controllable it felt with its bullpup configuration. I was one of the shooters that fell in love with it, buying the AUG and leaving my AR-15. I shot 3-Gun matches and the 3-Gun World Championships of those days, and in every competition I noticed more and more AUGs would show up. It was just a better shooting machine, though not without flaws. The trigger has a rather hard and spongy feel, but overall it�s a better-shooting rifle.
In 1989, the AUG�s hegemony faded as the Steyr AUG was banned from further importation into the United States. This obstacle gave back the throne to the AR-15 and its clones, while AUGs that had been already imported became collector items and most of them never shot competitively again. High prices on the few AUGs out there made the shooters go back to their AR-15s, which seemed �nice enough after all.� Selling in the $3,000 to $5,000 range, most AUGs were collector�s items�including mine. Making It
Nearly a decade later, the Steyr AUG was to return to the U.S. with some changes. In 1997 Steyr joined forces with GSI to import a legal variant of the AUG in accordance with the 1989 Assault Weapons Ban as well as the 1994 Crime Bill. Steyr�s solution was very simple: Remove the military features so that it was in compliance. But as Steyr began the BATF importation application process, little did they know of an ongoing battle in the White House and the US Congress. After years of political wrangling, Steyr decided to take a bold step and establish manufacturing in the U.S. While a logical solution to the import ban, it was not to be an easy task. The first try was a rather unsuccessful effort that ended up with new management in Steyr U.S. and a U.S. company manufacturing AUG clones. Steyr Mannlicher USA tried again in 2007 with collaborative effort from Sabre-Defence, and from this second effort U.S. shooters have been given the AUG�A3. Made in the U.S. by Sabre-Defence in its state-of-the-art facility, with the quality everybody expects from Austrian tradition. The AUG-A3 comes standard with two 30 round magazines, soft carry case, factory AUG sling and cleaning kit that fits conveniently in the butt stock. The AUG-A3 is Steyr�s answer to the �Picatinny craze� that is taking the tactical market by storm. Austrian designers are very minimalistic, adding the option of attaching rails at various positions�even some at 45 degress. If you don�t need them you can take them out and the rifle will still have a smooth, round and �light� feel, instead of the �thick� feeling you get with many M4-style clones. The 45-degree Picatinny positions are an important feature, as I like to place my Aimpoint Micro sight there and leave the top rail for a scope with higher magnification. I learned this trick from today�s top 3-gun competitors: Angle your gun and use the side of the gun and the barrel, plus the red dot Aimpoint Micro, as though it were a shotgun. Target acquisition will be incredibly quick and your point of impact won�t be affected much at close range by the repositioning. You will have the best of both worlds�a long range semi-sniping capability and a swift close-quarters target acquisition. The top rail is long enough to fit a high magnification sniper scope with an inline night vision device up front or any new thermal imaging device shooters might want to use. Having the target ID capability of a high magnification scope may be required in many operations, and the AUG-A3 allows for swapping out the 1.5X sight and attaching a high power scope in no time. Meanwhile, there are the side and 45-degree rails should there be a need to attach a light source as well. The AUG-A3 comes with the 1.5X-14mm high-quality Steyr �Austrian scope,� similar in design to the Leupold CQ/T. It has superb optical performance, and it sports a Picatinny rail on its top for additional accessories. The AUG was the first gun I�ve used that offered a front grab handle as part of the barrel. Whether it�s the precision machining or that famous central European watch making tradition, the rifle is machine gun quick and will accurately hold zero with different barrels after a barrel change. The standard AUG-A3 SA is the 16� �carbine� version, while four other barrel lengths are available in the market: The longer semi-sniper is 20�, the 18�, the �carbine� barrel at 16� long and the smallest of them all being the �compact� barrel at 14.5� long (for military and law enforcement only). Each barrel has eight lugs that lock into a steel insert in the alloy receiver. Steyr has always been synonymous with accuracy and this one is no different. Years ago I shot incredible groups with my old AUG and the new Sabre-Defence barrels are certainly on par. With the small 16� barrel you can expect average ten shot groups of 1.5 minute of arc (MOA) at 100 yards with most ammunition, (tested after 10,000 rounds). And if you are into precision shooting, try the Federal Gold Medal 69-grain match ammo, bound to bring a smile with the 1 MOA ten-shot groups. From a chrome-lined military spec 16� barrel, you won�t get much more anywhere else. American Cousin
The U.S. AUG has its differences with the Austrian units, but its fundamentally superb specs remain untouched. The Steyr AUG is a gas-operated, magazine-fed rifle of bullpup layout and ambidextrous capability. It�s built around a cast aluminum receiver with steel reinforcement inserts. The gas system is regulated and adjustable and the very distinctive stock is built from fiberglass reinforced polyamide. Somewhat unique to the weapon is the fact that there�s no separate fire mode selector on the AUG rifles. Instead, the trigger itself is used to control the rate of fire. Pulling it half the way back will produce single shots, while pulling it fully will produce fully automatic bursts on full-auto versions. The enlarged polymer trigger guard encloses the trigger hand and allows the gun to be fired with gloves or mitts on. The trigger has improved over the years, but even though it is still hard and less responsive, it is no worse than other assault rifle designs. While there is no major fault with the AUG trigger, considering Austrian quest for perfection I would prefer a more conventional one with lighter pull. The magazines are clear polymer available in 30- and 42-round capacity. I�ve had many and never did one fail on me, even back in 1989 when STANAG magazines where aluminum and prone to failure. The Steyr AUG-A3 is one of the best tactical rifles/carbines available. It will be a best-seller in a tactical market so full of M4-style clones, all too similar. This is a superb rifle; accurate, configurable and incredibly cool. Yes, coolness is a factor nowadays, more important that most would ever admit.

The Steyr AUG A3 SF

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:17:00 -0600

Black Guns, Feb. 2010 Images by Steve Woods The Aug for Special Operations The Steyr AUG has proven popular with special operations units for myriad reasons. A bullpup design, it is as compact as a pistol-caliber SMG (sub-machine gun), yet packs the punch of the 5.56 NATO round. For personnel who parachute, rappel, employ small boats, or swim or climb to their AO (Area of Operations), compact is always better. Another advantage of the AUG when it was initially adopted by many Special Ops units was the fact it had an optical sight when most other battle rifles still had iron sights. Admittedly, it was only 1.5X, but the circular reticle allowed very fast engagement at closer ranges. Later A2 versions of the AUG allow the carry handle/optical sight to be removed and a MIL STD 1913 rail to be used to mount a wide array of optics, and most Special Ops unit now use this version or the A3 which has just the 1913 rail. The AUG�s versatility allows it to be tailored to the mission, which works for Special Ops units. The AUG A3 SF (a.k.a. A2 Commando Model) was especially designed for Austria�s Special Forces, the Jagdkommando, but has been adopted by other units as well. This model allows rails to be configured to take an array of optics, illuminators or pointers. For Special Operations use, the AUG with 13.8 inch barrel is popular, often with a suppressor mounted. Made to Order
The ability to configure the AUG with various barrel lengths�13.8, 16, 20 or 24.4 inches�is very appealing. Generally, special ops units choose the 13.8- or 16-inch barrel versions, but for units operating where longer-range engagement is likely, the 20-inch barrel offers a good choice. Some units use the 16- or 20-inch version specifically for operators giving fire support from helicopters. The Austrian Jagdkommandos have very diverse missions, but since Alpine combat is one of them, longer range may be desirable. The 24.4-inch barreled version is actually the AUG LMG (Light Machine Gun), but at only 35.4 inches overall and 8.6 lbs, it makes a very portable Spec Ops support weapon�one which will take the same magazines as the rest of the unit�s AUGs. Well, actually, the 42-round magazine is standard for the LMG, while the 30-round magazine is standard for the carbine/rifle; however, some operators like 42-round magazines to have more firepower. I would note, however, that the 42 rounder makes going prone more difficult, always a consideration for Operators. The AUG two-stage trigger selector system�in which a half pull is semi and a full pull is full auto�offers pros and cons for Special Operators. The advantage of this system is while patrolling if an ambush is encountered there is no need to work a selector switch. If the safety is off, all that is necessary is a full pull on the trigger to start sending 700 rounds-per-minute downrange. On the other hand, this system makes precise shooting in hostage situations more difficult as the trigger pull is not as smooth as on some other carbines. For Special Ops units, the AUG trigger system is normally less problematic than for conventional troops since operators tend to shoot a lot and get to know their weapons very well. Some Special Ops units that employ the AUG either have 9mm conversion units or dedicated AUG 9MM or AUG A3 9MM XS. The XS version has a 12.8-inch barrel and Picatinny rail system. I have seen this version suppressed. The 9mm versions work well for MAT (Maritime Anti-Terrorism) and hostage rescue. An interesting aspect of the AUG that has appealed to some units is the possibility of ordering the weapon with different colored stocks. Although either green or black is most commonly encountered, Middle Eastern Special Ops units have ordered AUGs in sand and some have been made in white for mountain and Arctic ops. In addition, many Special Ops units equip their AUGs with the Steyr 40mm UBGL (Under Barrel Grenade Launcher). Utterly Adaptable
An advantage of the AUG is that it may be readily switched from right- to left-hand ejection and operation. However, because it is a bullpup design with the ejection port so far to the rear, the AUG does not lend itself well to firing off of the support shoulder around cover, a tactic that will throw hot brass into the operator�s face. This is one of the few criticisms I have heard consistently from operators who use the AUG. An interesting comment on AUG applicability to Special Ops is that Special Ops units of most countries that issue the AUG as their standard weapon also use the AUG. This is often not the case as Special Operations units will choose a different weapon. There are exceptions; although Australian airborne personnel use the F88, the Australian-issue AUG, the Australian SASR (Special Air Service Regiment), 4th RAR (Royal Australian Regiment), Commando and Clearance Divers issue the C8 Carbine, the Canadian-produced version of the M4. Since these units work closely with U.S. Special Forces and SEALs and British Special Air Service and Special Boat Service, this keeps their weapons compatible. Note that the A3 AUG has the capability of being configured to take standard M16 magazines when units are working with NATO troops or others using the M16/M4. Among Special Operations units that use the Steyr AUG, Austria�s Jagdkommando has already been mentioned. Another unit which uses the AUG is the Irish ARW (Army Ranger Wing), which is charged with all Special Ops tasks for the Irish Republic. Among other special units which have used the AUG are Philippine Scout Rangers, Argentinean Commandos, Indonesian Kopassus, Serbian 72nd Recon-Commando Battalion, and Croatian Special Forces. Many others special police or military units have some AUGs available. A Unique Offering
The AUG�s bullpup design offers a lot of rifle in a SMG-sized package. For Operators who must carry enough equipment for recon or other extended missions, this is a boon. Once the operator is trained with the AUG, it is also a handy weapon which can be used quickly for CQC (Close Quarters Combat). Of the major bullpup designs, the AUG is the only one that has seen wide adoption by conventional troops and special operators. In service for over 30 years, it has been well proven.

7mm Rem. Magnum Bolt Guns: Steyr, Browning Get 'A' Grades

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:57:00 -0600

One of the biggest problems facing gun owners today is lack of available ammunition. Recently, a member of our staff was shopping the hunting department of a big-box store and overheard a customer say he was going to buy a gun based on whatever ammunition was still on the shelf. Always pragmatic, our interest in one such round, 7mm Remington Magnum, actually began last March. This was when a SWAT recruit for a major metropolitan police force sought training for USPSA 3-Gun competition from a member of our staff. The officer mentioned that his family has been hunting with bolt-action rifles chambered for 7mm Remington Magnum since the cartridge was introduced in 1962. Often described as being housed in a 338 Winchester case necked down to 7mm, characteristics such as an abundance of power and a flat trajectory were at the center of the family�s appreciation for the round. But we learned of another application that really piqued our interest. According to acclaimed law-enforcement trainer Brian Hoffner (hoffners.com), we learned that the 7mm Remington Magnum bolt-action rifle was also a key weapon in tandem with dart gun and shotgun for ZDART, acronym for Zoological Dangerous Animal Response Teams. This means providing lethal force in an emergency to stop �medium�-size animals such as lions, tigers, and bears in an urban setting. Enthusiasm for the test prompted our roster of boltaction rifles chambered for 7mm Remington Magnum to include no fewer than four rifles. They were the $862 Ruger Hawkeye Sporter No. HKM77RBZ, the $1127 Remington 700 CDL SF No. 84016, the $1150 Steyr Mannlicher Pro Hunter No. 26.753.3G, and Browning�s $1019 X-Bolt Medallion No. 035200227. None of our rifles arrived with sights, but all four receivers were drilled and tapped for scope mounts. The Browning and Ruger rifles arrived with proprietary mounts and rings. The Steyr rifle was constructed with a synthetic stock. The Ruger rifle was stocked with laminate wood, and both the Remington and Browning rifles were built with stained walnut. The Remington and Ruger rifles utilized an internal magazine with hinged floorplate. Our other rifles featured removable box magazines. Barrels lengths and barrel profiles were comparable, but the execution of the triggers and the bolts represented different ways to get the job done. Our test ammunitions were Winchester�s 150-grain Super X Power Point and two rounds from Federal. They were Federal Premium Vital Shoks featuring Nosler�s 160-grain Accubond bullet, and Federal Classic ammunition topped with Sierra�s 160-grain Pro Hunter soft point. Our test procedure called for five-shot groups fired from a distance of 100 yards with the rifles supported upon a bench rest. We consider this plan to be standard procedure. But in speaking with even the most avid hunters, they expressed that firing more than two consecutive shots at prey was unlikely. One extra shot at an elk scurrying away may even prove to be the full extent of the day�s shooting. But we weren�t about to report on two-shot groups. Another comment we heard was that considering the recoil of magnum ammunition and the expense (about $1.75 to $2.50 per round on average), the average hunter wouldn�t be spending a lot of time on the practice range, either. Each rifle was treated to a brief but careful break-in regimen. Dedicating 20 rounds of ammunition for each rifle, we cleaned and lubricated the barrels after the second, fifth, ninth, fourteenth and twentieth round. We then proceeded with our shooting of groups, cleaning the barrel after every two groups. However, we were forced to work under extreme conditions. Houston, Texas was in the middle of a drought with record temperatures that simply would not go away. Using a Kestral 4000 weather station from Sinclair International (sinclairintl. com), we measured temperatures at our shaded bench that ranged from 90 degrees to in excess of 102 degrees. Occasional winds gusting to about 8 mph were easy to wait out. All four guns were shot in the same weather, during the same time of day, at the same shooting range and by the same shooter from the same shooting bench. The fact that conditions were harsh is what prolonged our tests for no less than eight days. First shots each day at American Shooting Centers (amshootcenters.com), began at approximately 9:30 a.m. Each firing session lasted 20 minutes. Working under these constraints we fired a shot about every 3 minutes. Overpowered by the heat, we ended each day�s session by about 1:30 p.m. We used Caldwell�s Tip Top Targets for their ability to cut a sharply defined bullet hole and fit neatly into a ring binder for later reference. Here is what we learned.

Ruger Hawkey Sporter No. HKM77RBZ 7mm Rem. Mag., $862

The appearance and construction of the Ruger Hawkeye Sporter was both distinctive and familiar. The mattestainless finish of the metal parts was blended gracefully into the brown-laminate wood stock. The lines of the laminate grain and the taper of the fore end matched the sweeping lines of the 24-inch barrel (1:9.5-inch right-hand twist). The stock was seated tightly against the barrel to the fore end. When the action was closed, the flat-stemmed bolt lever was buried deep inside a relief in the laminate wood. The stock offered wraparound checkering at the fore end with checkering on each side of the slender pistol grip. Sling studs were in place front and rear. The rubber butt pad was soft but very slim, measuring only about four-tenths of an inch thick at its center. The Ruger manual describes such action features as a one-piece bolt with a non-rotating Mauser-type controlled-feed extractor. During our tests we lubricated each bolt with Pro-Gold grease ($6, from sinclairintl. com). Feeding from the internal magazine was flawless, but we did notice some polishing of the bolt in places we would not expect. The polishing appeared in rings midway along the bolt. We couldn�t point to any flaws in performance connected to this, but we couldn�t explain it, either. The trigger in our rifle was Ruger�s LC6 design. The LC6 felt like a single-stage trigger in that no takeup was necessary. Grit-free, we could sense only the very slightest bit of compression before breaking. We measured trigger pull weight to be about 5 pounds on average. The Ruger rifle had a three-round internal magazine with hinged floor plate. The release button was located on the outer face of the trigger guard. Some hunters like the safety of being able to completely remove the magazine, but Ruger�s three-position safety system may be just as preferable. The safety can be used to lock the bolt and also load and unload with the safety engaged. Fully forward was the firing position. The fully rearward position of the safety lever locked the trigger and prevented the bolt from being moved or rotated. The middle position, about 90 degrees to the bore, also locked the trigger but allowed for the bolt to be opened or removed by pulling the release, mounted on the left side of the action. We noted that when replacing the bolt, it could be pushed into place without pulling open the release. The M77 Hawkeye Sporter arrived with a set of Ruger�s proprietary rings for use with a 1-inch tube scope. These rings were easy to apply and perfectly matched to the slots machined into the top strap. For those wanting more variety, we found rings suitable for the Ruger integral mounts made by Warne and Leupold in Brownells latest catalog, number 62, (800-741-0015). We also tried a set of two-piece mounts by Burris that provide a Weaver-style base just to see if they afforded more versatility than the factory setup. Depending on the length of available tube fore and aft of the adjustment dials, we found that the extra slots provided by the Burris mount could place the scope closer to the shooter�s eye. But for our tests we chose to utilize the supplied rings and mount a Nikon Titanium 5.5-16.5 power 44mm AO HT scope. Recoil from the Ruger was, in our view, the highest among our test rifles. We would blame this on the thin recoil pad. It seemed odd to us that the pad installed on this magnum rifle was actually much thinner than the pad found on a Ruger rifle we tested last year (September 2008, �Varmint Bolt Actions in 204 Ruger�). But our M77 was the lowest-priced rifle in the test, and perhaps this was a cue for the shooter to spend the money saved on a bigger recoil pad. Or a shock-absorbing system incorporated into the butt like Ken Rucker�s Bump-Buster Hydraulic Recoil Reduction System (starting at $360, from speedbumpstockworks.com). At the range we learned that our fouling shot, that is the first shot after cleaning and lubricating the barrel, tended to be lower than those shots fired afterwards. Measuring our shots on target we found that the Ruger would deliver five shots of each choice of test ammunition into a group measuring about 1.4 inches across. But such figures do not tell the entire story. Having left the barrel to cool to ambient temperature, we found we could group the first two shots of each test round right next to each other. Then, as temperature raised so did our point of impact. One extraordinary group best illustrates this point. Firing six shots of the Ruger�s favorite load, Winchester 150-grain Super X Power-Point rounds, we landed the first two hits almost as one, little more than one-half inch below our point of aim. Our next two hits were also touching, but at proper elevation, slightly left of center. With the barrel now well heated, our final shots printed in a tight pair about 1.2 inches above our point of aim. If one�s point of view is that two consecutive shots is likely the maximum output when game is in sight, then perhaps the Ruger M77 Hawkeye Sporter higher should be rated higher than our accuracy data would project. Our Team Said: The Ruger M77 Hawkeye Sporter was a solid, good-looking rifle, but we think the lack of an adequate recoil pad wore us out and prevented us from recording better accuracy.

Remington 700 CDL SF No. 84016 7mm Rem. Mag., $1127

The CDL SF is perhaps the most striking of all the Remington Model 700 rifles. Its 26-inch stainless-steel barrel (with 1:9.25-inch twist) was deeply fluted beginning about 1 inch from the muzzle and continuing to the point at which the barrel widened to meet the action. Remington touts the matte-stainless-steel action as being machined from solid bar stock. The bolt showed a handsome jewel surface with an integral extractor set into a groove inside the rim of the bolt face. The internal magazine held three rounds, and the release for the hinged floorplate was located inside the trigger guard. The stock featured wraparound checkering on the fore end, where we found minimal separation between the stock and the barrel. We were able to slide three dollar bills in between the stock and the fore end. But the gap only extended about 2 inches back from the tip of the fore end. There were checkered panels on each side of the pistol grip. The fore end was capped with darker wood, and the butt stock was fit with a thick recoil pad (about 1.2 inches thick at its center). This pad was made from Remington�s trademarked SuperCell material and carried distinctive lettering and logo. The left side of the stock was built up, favoring the right handed shooter. Remington does offer a left-hand model CDL, but we could find no mention of a left-handed CDL SF or the CDL SF Limited Edition rifles. The Remington�s receiver was drilled and tapped for scope mounts. The single-piece mounts we shopped for showed prices as high as $180. But parts for Remington rifles are plentiful, so finding a two-piece Weaver mount for about $20 was our final choice. Mounting our Nikon scope, we headed to the range. Before loading the rifle we practiced by dryfiring from the bench to become accustomed to the new X-Mark Pro adjustable trigger. To cock the action with an empty chamber, we lifted the bolt and then locked it down. This was sufficient to set the trigger of our other rifles, but the Remington demanded that we let the bolt shift rearward about 0.25 inch to set the trigger. The X-Mark Pro trigger was set at a remarkably consistent 4.7 pounds. The movement was crisp, with the trigger resetting tightly against a solid break point each time. The manual safety consisted of a simple lever, to be thrown forward for fire and rearward for on-safe. The bolt could be removed from the action by pressing upward on the release located inside the trigger guard directly forward of the trigger. The release was a sheet-metal part that jiggled around in a manner that seemed out of place on this otherwise solid rifle. Installing the bolt did not require manipulation of the bolt release. In terms of recoil, the Remington SuperCell pad did a good job of dampening kick. But we still needed to wear a recoil shield. Of our three choices of ammunition we felt that the Federal Classic 160-grain Sierra Pro Hunter SP was the only round that really suited the Remington CDL SF. Our best group measured about 1.2 inches across. But the Remington�s consistency never let our groups stray to larger than about a 1.4-inch diameter. Firing our remaining two rounds, the Remington was not as accurate, but it was just as consistent, with groups measuring from about 1.4 to 1.7 inches across for both the Federal Vital Shok and Winchester ammunition. We began our evaluation stating that we found a variety of 7mm Remington Magnum ammunition on store shelves. We would bet that several choices beyond our test roster would have provided more impressive data for our accuracy chart. Our Team Said: The Remington CDL SF�s handling, mount, trigger, feeding, and operation felt superior. But we were unable translate its features and good looks into a better performance on target.

Browning X-Bolt Medallion No. 035200227 7mm Rem. Mag., $1019

In viewing our Browning rifle we were immediately reminded that each of our four rifles was markedly different in terms of look and feel. The X-Bolt Hunter Medallion cut a slender profile with tapered barrel and a glass-like finish upon its stock. We learned throughout our tests that the sleek finish was as durable as it was refined. The fore end offered wraparound checkering that was decorated on the bottom but only covered about halfway up the sides of the stock. Above the fore end the 26-inch barrel (with 1:9.5-inch twist) was separated by a gap about four dollar bills thick that ran all the way back to the receiver. Checkering also graced the sides of the pistol grip. The safety consisted of a sliding lever located atop the pistol grip. Currently there are no left-handed X-Bolt rifles, but the safety was easily accessible to both right- and left-handed shooters. Furthermore, the forward edge of the comb was relieved on each side and a matching contour was carved into the bottom of the butt stock. Quick-release sling swivels were in place front and rear. A cushy rubber buttstock measuring about 0.8 inch thick at its center was in place. This was Browning�s Inflex Technology butt pad. The Inflex recoil pad did a good job of moderating recoil, but we still preferred to wear a shoulder pad for added protection. The action was accented by a gold-colored trigger. This was Browning�s adjustable Feather Trigger. We left it at its factory setting of about 4.75 pounds. Removing the bolt required pressing inward on the release lever located on the left side of the receiver. The bolt was mirror-finished chrome and showed virtually no wear points at the conclusion of our tests. The bolt could also be removed with the safety on by pressing the Bolt Unlock Button located on the bolt lever itself. The button was inconspicuous and did not interfere with the Medallion�s styling. It blended nicely with the flat contour that ran along the right side of the receiver. Lockup was accomplished by three visible lugs forming an A-pattern, which had us wondering why this rifle was referred to as an X-Bolt. According to Browning the term X-bolt does not refer to a physical attribute such as the shape of the bolt or a pattern formed by its lugs. It was more a matter of marketing a rifle with a collection of extra features, including the new X-Lock Scope Mounting System. The X-Lock was a two-piece mounting system consisting of CNC-machined scope rings with an integral base that bolted directly to the drilled and tapped receiver of the X-Bolt rifle. Made for Browning by Talley, a widely respected name, each mount connected to the receivers with four Torx screws. The X-Lock mounts proved to be an excellent fit. It felt like we didn�t even have to tighten the bolts completely for a secure fit. The X-Lock mounts are available in a variety of heights and colors fit for both 1-inch and 30mm scopes. Cost of the X-Lock system was $60 from browning.com. The Medallion fed from a three-round removable box magazine of polymer construction. The magazine release was found at the forward edge of the magazine. Actually, the latch was a part of the magazine and not the rifle. The technique for loading rounds was similar to filling a pistol magazine. Rather than press each round downward directly through the feed lips you first depressed the follower, (or the last round loaded), and slid the next round into the magazine from front to back. Bolt action and feeding was flawless. At the range we learned that the X-Bolt Medallion was consistent when firing the Winchester 150-grain rounds, but much more accurate firing the heavier 160-grain bullets found atop the Federal ammunition. The Federal Vital Shok ammunition fired a 0.8-inch group on the way to a computed 1.1-inch average. The Federal Classic ammunition kept all groups within the 1.1-inch to 1.3-inch range. We think the free-floated barrel on the X-Bolt helped it maintain accuracy throughout the extreme heat. Our Team Said: Given the Browning�s penchant for heavier bullets, we couldn�t help but wonder what kind of accuracy would have been delivered by the 175-grain rounds preferred by the ZDART teams mentioned earlier. Nevertheless, the Medallion was a beautiful rifle that inspired confidence with each shot. From the standpoint of looks and performance, we can�t imagine anyone being unhappy with an X-Bolt Medallion.

Steyr Mannlicher Pro Hunter No. 26.753.3G 7mm Rem. Mag., $1150

The Steyr Mannlicher Pro Hunter stood out in more ways than being built on a synthetic stock. The trigger had a short but well-defined takeup leading to a second stage that offered a brief sense of compression. Steryr refers to this as the Direct trigger. An adjustable Set trigger may also be retrofit to this rifle. The exterior of the 25.6-inch-long barrel (with 1:9.0-inch twist) showed twirling ridges. Steyr prefers to leave this pattern visible for two reasons. Not only has the appearance become firmly associated with the brand, but the ridges serve as high points from which heat can more easily escape. The barrel was coated with Steyr�s MANNOTM finish, which is guaranteed 100% weatherproof anywhere in the world. Featuring a full-float barrel, the fore end was completely separated from the barrel fully to the receiver by as much as 0.10 inches at the tip. The buttstock was fit with two spacers that could be removed to alter length of pull. Extra spacers are available from steyrarms.com in Trussville, Alabama, for $23 each. The recoil pad was far different from the rubber and composite found on our other rifles. We could compress it using only the edges of our fingernails. The consistency was somewhere between plastic and hard rubber. The receiver was drilled and tapped for a scope mount, but we rarely see mounts for the Steyr Mannlicher listed in catalogs. A call to the company assured us that the bolt pattern was the same as the Browning A-bolt. Two-piece mounts for the A-bolt are easy to find and cost as little as $12 per pair. Our Steyr rifle fed from a removable box magazine that held three rounds. Rounds were inserted straight downward over the follower. The magazine was constructed of polymer, and like the Browning, the release latch or in this case, latches, were mounted on the magazine itself. Referred to as Snap Latches, pressing the magazine into place produced a snapping sound, alerting the operator to proper seating. If silence was preferred, the magazine could be loaded without a sound merely by compressing the latches while pushing upward. Removing the magazine for safe handling of the rifle was not absolutely necessary. By pinching the latches on the magazine, the box could then be lowered to a second locked position about one-quarter inch below the receiver. In this position the chamber could be emptied and the bolt closed without extracting a round from the magazine. One magazine was supplied and additional three-round magazines cost $42 each. Eight-round magazines ($75 each) were also available, but installation of a $59 conversion kit was necessary. In addition, once the high-capacity conversion kit is in place, operation was limited to using only the higher capacity magazines. The stem on the high-polish chrome bolt continued with the visual theme of the Steyr rifle, which we were tempted to refer to as high-tech/low-profile cosmetics. It appeared to have been hammered into shape, although we doubt that was the case. The safety was located atop the pistol grip immediately behind the bolt. Referred to as a rotary safety in the owner�s manual, the switch consisted of a wheel with knurled edges that was rolled forward to fire. Rolling the safety toward the butt offered two safe-on positions. The first position was indicated by a stop that revealed a white dot. In this position the trigger was seized, but the bolt could be moved for safe-on loading. Rolling the safety further toward the rear allowed a gray-colored spring-loaded tab to pop up. The trigger remained frozen, but the bolt was now locked down as well. To remove the bolt from the receiver required rotating the safety to the first safe-on position indicated by the white dot and lifting the bolt. This part of the process can also be performed with the safety off. The next step was to rotate the safety to the second safe-on position and pressing down on the spring-loaded tab. Now the bolt could be removed. We liked this system, but it probably takes longer to explain than it did to remove the bolt. Installation of the bolt required that the safety be in the second on-safe position. At the range we were able to dispel our misconceptions of the Steyr Mannlicher Pro Hunter. We thought that due to its synthetic stock and minimal recoil pad that it would weigh the least and prove the most punishing to shoot. But the Steyr actually turned out to be the friendliest shooter of the four. The Steyr was actually the heaviest of our test rifles, weighing more than 8 pounds unloaded. But more than just gross weight dampening kick, the ABS and fiberglass composition of the stock served to absorb shock. In addition, the wide round face of the recoil pad did a good job of distributing impact. This was not to say we shot the Steyr without a recoil shield in place, but overall we experienced less distraction from felt recoil. Firing the Federal Vital Shok ammunition topped with a 160-grain Nosler AccuBond bullet, we landed our best single group of our tests, measuring about 0.7 inches across. The Steyr also landed a 0.8-inch group firing the Winchester ammunition. But we also printed a 1.5-inch group with this same ammunition. In our view, the Steyr was the overall winner on our accuracy charts. Our Team Said: We think the Steyr Pro Hunter was the rifle most likely to be found in the hands of the guide on your next hunting trip. We think the generous gap provided by the full-float barrel helped minimize degradation of accuracy due to heat. We also found the Pro Hunter to be easily managed. Once it was shouldered, we seldom needed to adjust our mount. It slid into position willingly and filled the shoulder pocket. The bolt felt eager to cycle, and even our least experienced staffer said that the trigger was most forgiving. No matter how we engaged the trigger initially, we found it easy to find the control for a good press.

Article courtesy of www.Gun-Tests.com

Different TTPs For a Different Carbine: Employing the AUG

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:07:00 -0600

With two new domestic manufacturers and the announcement that Steyr will resume production of the AUG in the U.S., the time is right for a review of techniques to employ the AUG.

I have been running various AUGs for almost 30 years. The layout of the rifle calls for some different operations to maximize its usefulness.

When U.S. Customs adopted the AUG, I was the lead firearms instructor at the Tucson Customs Academy and introduced several thousand officers to the gun. Its compact size (about four inches shorter than an M4) made it particularly attractive, as the vast majority of our work was in or around cars. After supervising the firing of many thousands of rounds at the Academy, I returned to the field, where I carried an AUG on operations.

As Ed Lawrence noted in the April 2009 issue of S.W.A.T. (�AMERICAN AUGs: Domestic Manufacturers, Iconic Austrian
Design�), the fire selector is built into the trigger. An easy pull produces a single shot, while a hard pull produces full auto or a three-shot burst. Customs adopted the three-shot burst model AUG. The concept is that if you have time for an aimed
shot, you will fire one aimed round. If it�s an �oh shucks� moment, you will involuntarily pull hard, obtaining multiple rounds. This was probably the hardest thing to teach students who were used to delivering accurate fire with semi-auto
pistols.

The hammer-forged barrel on the AUG is unique for its strength. My standard demonstration was to fire 42 rounds in three-shot bursts as fast as I could, then lock the charging handle back, pop the barrel out and drop the breech end into a bucket of cold water. Steam would spurt from the muzzle and gas release port. I would then slam it back into the gun and resume firing. If you try that with a M16, you can bend the barrel! The factory demo included driving a bullet partway up the barrel and then shooting it out with a live round�I never tried that one! We fired over 14,000 (yes, 14,000) rounds through one particular AUG, and it never failed. In fact, after this torture test, while showing some wear, it still was within factory specifications. This rifle is tough!

The sight on the AUG is exceptional, as the ring sight is also a bullet drop compensator. Set for a 5�7� person, out to 300 yards, you just set the center of the ring onto the center of mass, squeeze the trigger and look for another target. Beyond 300 yards, place the feet of a standing target on the bottom of the ring and squeeze the trigger. When I learned this, I did not believe it, so off I went to a range with an AUG and some State Department �Izzy� targets. These have the top half of an armed man on one side, and the bottom half on the other. Put one above the other, and you have the 5�7� male, armed with an AK-47. The AUG sight worked exactly as advertised out to 600 yards�the farthest range available that I could fire it.

There is an optional circle with dot reticle, but the dot is so fine it can only be seen on light-colored targets or at extreme range. There was also a circle with crosshairs, which I have never personally seen on a rifle. The Steyr �Special Receiver� came without sights, so a high powered sight (or a red dot) could be mounted. We found the plain circle to be satisfactory for general issue. The new generation AUGs will accept all kinds of sights, as rails were just being developed in the mid 1980s.

While the AUG can be issued with a left-handed bolt for left eye dominant shooters, generally you do not want to shoot the rifle from the opposite (weak/support) shoulder. Due to the bullpup configuration, it will eject empties directly into your mouth. For a limited number of rounds in training, or for real need on the street, you can fire from that side�if you keep your mouth shut. One thing you must always remember with the AUG is to fire the rifle with your support hand on the forward grip, with the grip folded down. If you fire a shot with your hand wrapped around the grip when it is folded up, your priorities will instantly change to seeking medical aid for yourself. You see, the gas escape holes lie right next to the folded grip and the gas exits with enough velocity to rip the fingers off a welder�s glove. Take my word for it, as soon as you start to deploy an AUG, fold the grip down!
The other caution with the forward grip is not to �choke up� on the grip. If your hand gets too high, it will contact the bottom of the gas block, which quickly gets exceedingly hot. In fact, everyone will know which rifle you fired, as that is also the location of the serial number, which will be burned into your hand�an experience you definitely want to skip. Loading the AUG is different than the methods used with the M16 series. For starters, you can fully load the translucent magazines�no downloading to make sure they will seat. For your initial mag, insert it into the well and push up, then pull down. If it does not come out, the mag is locked in.

If you were trained to slap the bottom of the mag on an M16 (not a good idea with the M16 either), and you do that with an AUG with the bolt locked open, you will produce an OIDFM, or Operator Induced Dual Feed Malfunction. The top round in the mag will hop out and try to enter the chamber with the first round from the mag. As you can guess, two rounds trying to go into one chamber does not work. Don�t use force, just push and pull.
Speed/tactical reloading (as opposed to administrative reloading) is very different than with the M16 family. With the AUG, retrieve a loaded magazine with the support hand first. Use the spine of the magazine to press the magazine release bar. If you are using the 30-round magazines, the empty will drop free (for some reason the 42-round mags do not). Insert the fresh magazine, pull and release the charging handle, and get on with business. With practice, you can put the next round downrange before the empty magazine has hit the deck.

Two more points about loading:

On top of the charging handle there is a small button that can be used as a forward assist. DON�T USE IT! Forcing a round that does not fit into the chamber is a bad idea. Eject it and try another. If the second round does not go, change magazines. If the second magazine does the same thing, transition to the handgun.

The other point is, do not �ride� the charging handle. Just pull it to the rear and let it fly home. If you have locked it open, just flip the handle down out of the notch and let it go. If you ride it, you can induce an OIDFM by reflexively pulling the bolt back so it picks up another round.

Even the sling has some special points. If you adjust the sling so it holds the rifle level at your belt line, you will find you can easily snap it up into shooting position. Rotate it in front if you need to do something with both hands, like drive a car. Or rotate it to the rear, where it is slung out of the way if you need to climb a ladder or handle a prisoner.

This same technique, of course, works with the M4 or any rifle where the sling swivels are on the top or side. By the way, the AUG can successfully be fired in all modes one-handed, even when held like a pistol. Long bursts will tend to climb significantly, but short bursts and single shots are no problem. Your hit probability goes way up when you can shoulder it and use the sight, so this is more of an emergency drill. If circumstances have one hand occupied, just use your AUG like a large 5.56mm pistol.

Over the years that Customs used the AUG, it saved a number of lives�including those of the bad guys. Most of the time the mere appearance of the rifle in the hands of an obviously trained and determined officer caused the violators to throw up their hands in surrender. The first known shooting resulted in the rescue of two officers pinned down under fire and the elimination of three outlaws who made the mistake of trying to shoot it out with officers.

Although the M16/M4 system dominates the market due to its long history with the military, I find the AUG to be a superior weapons system for the law enforcement professional. If you get a chance, try one�you will be pleasantly surprised.

[Seth R. Nadel retired after serving 27 years as a Senior Special Agent with U.S. Customs. He was a firearms instructor for 25 years, including nine years as the lead firearms instructor at the Tucson Customs Academy.]

Copyrighted Material: Reprinted by Permission of SWAT Magazine