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Rifles
For an explanation of kinds of rifles, go here. This page is a guide to different types of rifles, their care, and their usage. If you are looking for information about a specific model, check out the review page. Feel free to add to it if you find a gun that hasn't been added. The format for entries is below:
Model: This model number of this year. Tell the gun's story.
Where to find:
Who uses it and where would you find it? How are replacement parts?
Complexity:
How hard is it to maintain and use this weapon effectively?
Size and weight:
Weight in ounces and kilograms, overall length and barrel length.
Action:
Is it autoloading? Single shot?
Caliber(s):
Primary chambering as well as other variations.
Magazine:
Type of magazine and capacity.
Trigger:
Trigger type and weight if available.
Controls:
Where the safeties, action releases and other controls are on the weapon, with pictures if possible.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Unloading:
How to unload and make safe.
Field Stripping:
How to take down the weapon for cleaning, with pictures if possible.
Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun.
SU-16
Barrett M82
Uzi
TAC-50
M1 Carbine
IMI Galil
Model: AK-47
Mikhail Kalashnikov was a Soviet tank commander who fought against the Germans in World War Two. After his vehicle was destroyed, he witnessed an ambulance crew helplessly scythed down by German machine gun fire, a situation the Sergeant thought would have been averted by a mass produced, automatic rifle.
The designer himself borrowed from a number of designs, such as the M1 Garand and Remington Model 8, and the Sturmgewehr 44, used by the Germans in World War II. While the StG44 did not change the course of the war, it left it's impact on Kalashnikov as an effective concept.
The rifle he designed while recovering from his wounds would end up defeating all it's competitors. It was named the "Automatic, Kalashnikov, Model 1947," going into production in 1949 and quickly proving it's effectiveness in the Korean War. In Vietnam, it was used to great effect by the Vietnamese, fighting the Americans on every front. Late into the Cold War, the USSR adopted the AK74, roughly analogous to the competing M16, with a lighter, more accurate caliber.
The AK-47 and its many variants and copies is no doubt the most popular assault rifle in the world. Approximately 70 million AK-47s and 100 million AK variants and copies have been produced, more than all other assault rifles combined. Approximately 60 countries use it as their standard assault rifle.
Where to find:
Along with its massive use in worldwide militaries and irregular/terrorist forces, semi-automatic rifles can be purchased around the United States. Automatic firearms manufactured domestically prior to 1986 or imported prior to 1968 may be transferred between civilians in accordance with federal and state law. A number of Soviet and PRC rifles were brought into the U.S. during the mid-1960s, when returning Vietnam veterans brought them home after capture from enemy troops. Some of these were properly registered during the amnesty period under the 1968 NFA law, and as such they may be made as private purchases between the owner and buyer. Domestically-produced semi-auto rifles are completely legal.
Complexity:
The AK-47 is perhaps the simplest assault rifle in the world. All of the controls are easy to operate, and the gun itself is extremely rugged. AK rifles can be subject to many types of wear and tear and will continue to fire. However, the reputation for reliability is often over-exaggerated, and the gun should not be taken as a magical self-cleaning weapon as some take it for. Regular cleaning is still recommended and will keep the rifle in top condition.
Size and weight:
AK47/AKM: 152 ounces (4.3 kg) unloaded. Length 870mm. Barrel 415mm.
AK47S (underfolding stock): 152 ounces (4.3 kg) unloaded. Length 875mm stock extended, 645mm stock folded. Barrel 415mm.
Action:
Gas-operated, rotating bolt, select fire/semi-automatic.
Caliber(s):
7.62x39mm M43
5.45x39mm (AK74)
5.56x45mm (AK101, AK102)
7.62x51mm (AK108)
7.62x54r (Dragunov*, certain Yugo and Egyptian variants)
*The Dravugnov, while handled identically to the AK and being much the same format, actually utilizes a different operating system, distinguishing it from a true AK. Many clones, however, do utilize the AK action. In fact, it isn't uncommon for a semi-automatic RPK to be dressed up like a Dragunov as a scam.
Magazine:
Steel detachable box magazine, 20 or 30 rounds. Also compatible with the 40-round box and 75-round drum of the RPK light machine gun.
Trigger:
Single action.
Controls:
An interesting aspect of AK-type rifles, is that their controls are very suited to a left handed user, shell ejection aside. Everything is on the right side of the gun, making right handed manipulation somewhat a hassle.
Charging handle is on the right side of the receiver, it's mass being mostly on that side of the gun. This means the gun can sometimes jerk to the right during firing. Some like to operate it with their right hand, often it is manipulated by reaching over the top, or the bottom of the rifle. There is a kit called the "Lightning Bolt" which replaces the receiver and adds a left-side cocking lever for right handed users.
Fire selector on the right side of the receiver. Top for safe, middle for auto, bottom for semi automatic. In the Vietnam War, Vietcong tended to wrap the end of the selector in cloth, or lift if as they changed the position, as it could make quite a loud "clack."
Magazine release directly behind the magazine, in front of the triggerguard. Push forward to release the mag, then rock the mag out forward. Extended releases are also available that allow the release to be hit with the finger of the firing hand.
Several important components that are not controls: The button on the rear of the receiver is used to take down the rifle. It is actually the rear of the operating rod. The stock plate on full-stock models functions as a container for the cleaning kit, and a cleaning rod is stored under the barrel. Some variants additionally come with a folding bayonet.
The under-folder stock is operated by depressing a button on the left side of the receiver, where the stock arms meet the body of the rifle. The stock can be folded when a magazine is loaded. Side-folding full-stocked models have a button on the stock to fold.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Ensure the safety is not in the "safe" position, as it will block the bolt travel.
3) Place the front edge of the top of the magazine against the lip at the front of the magazine well and rotate it back into the well, making sure you can feel and hear the click. Tug it back and forth to ensure it is locked in.
4) Pull the charging handle on the right side of the gun all the way back and let it snap forward. Riding the handle forward may cause a malfunction!
5) Set the safety to safe, if necessary.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
This is impossible on an AK-type rifle.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Place the front edge of the top of the magazine against the lip at the front of the magazine well and rotate it back into the well, making sure you can feel and hear the click. Tug it back and forth to ensure it is locked in.
3) Push the safety down one position for automatic and two positions for semi-automatic.
4) To fire, pull the charging handle all the way back and let it snap forward on its own. Riding the handle forward may cause a malfunction!
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Press the magazine release in front of the trigger guard forward and pull the magazine free.
3) Pull the charging handle all the way back. Visually inspect the chamber for remaining rounds.
4) Let the charging handle snap forward.
5) Pull the trigger. The firing pin should hit an empty chamber.
6) Set the selector to "safe."
Field Stripping: (From TucsonGuns.net)
1) Remove the magazine and set it aside.
2) Move the safety lever to "fire."
3) Pull back the bolt carrier lever and eject any round from the chamber.
4) While holding the back bolt carrier lever, visually inspect the chamber to make sure it is empty.
5) Push the bolt carrier forward.
6) Press in the button on the rear of the receiver cover.
7) Lift the rear of the receiver cover, disengage the front of the receiver cover from the slot in the rear sight housing. Pull the receiver cover free and set it aside.
8) Notice that the button you pressed in step six is the rear of a rod with a long spring around it that goes into the rear of the bolt carrier. Push the rear of that rod forward until it disengages from the rear of the receiver.
9) Lift the rod up and backward to remove it and its spring from the bolt carrier. Set the rod aside.
10) Push the bolt carrier lever to the rear and lift the bolt carrier upward to remove it and the bolt from the receiver.
11) Remove the bolt from the bolt carrier by moving the bolt forward and rotating it until comes free from the bolt carrier. Set the bolt and bolt carrier aside.
12) With a punch or your hand, rotate the lever on the right side of the rear sight upward about 90 degrees.
13) Remove the gas tube and hand guard by lifting the the rear of the tube and disengaging the front of the tube from the barrel attachment it slides into. Set the gas tube aside.
Design Quirks:
The AK-47 is mostly known for reliability. The gun can face large amounts of fouling, dirt, mud, and sand without failing to fire. However, this comes at a price: the loose tolerances that make this reliability possible also decrease accuracy; though completely workable within most combat ranges, an AK isn't a rifle to accurize, and it'll never be found in long-range competition.The trigger mechanism of the rifle is prone to malfunction if enough fine, gritty material gets in it. The Israelis encountered this problem frequently when they employed the AK in combat. While unlikely, this can cause the rifle to malfunction.
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Model: ArmaLite AR-15
The AR-15 is the civilian version of the M16 series of assault rifles. It is a semi-automatic rifle firing primarily 5.56mm NATO or .223 Remington rounds (a rifle chambered for .223 should NOT be loaded with 5.56mm due to the increased pressure of the more powerful round). While AR-15 originally referred to the assault rifles marketed to the United States military (among other countries around the world), the trademark now refers to the semi-automatic sporting versions. It is used around the world for sport shooting and police work due to their accuracy and modularity. ArmaLite sold the rights to the AR-15 and AR-10 in 1959.
The AR-15 is instantly recognizable for the synthetic stock, pistol grip, and furniture. The sights are fully adjustable and it can take a wide range of modular accessories, including various scopes and reflex sights. AR-15s can be converted to full-auto, however this is difficult for someone with little knowledge of firearms and highly illegal.
Where to find:
The AR-15 is somewhat costly for a target rifle at close to $1000 for most basic models, but it is still extraordinarily common. Police forces across the United States are beginning to replace their shotguns with AR-15 rifles to more easily combat criminals with body armor.
Complexity:
AR-15s are not particularly hard to care for, though they have a risk of jamming if not properly cleaned. AR-15s are extremely easy to disassemble and the upper and lower receivers can be easily swapped for extra customization options, including a large number of different calibers.
Size and weight:
Weight 2.27-3.9 kg (5.5-8.5 lbs) Barrel length 368-508 mm (14.5-20 in.)
Action:
Semi-automatic, direct impingement/rotating bolt
Caliber(s):
.223 Remington
5.56x45mm
.45 ACP
5.7x28mm
6.5mm Grendel
6.5 Creedmoor
6.8mm Rem SPC
7.62x39 Russian.
9x19mm Parabellum
.204 Ruger
Magazine:
Detachable STANAG box magazines of 10, 20, or 30 rounds or 100 round drums.
Trigger:
Single action
Controls:
The safety/fire selector is a dial on the left with markings indicating SAFE and SEMI on standard guns; AR-15s converted to full auto may have AUTO listed if the proper lower receiver is attached. The charging handle is located on the rear of the receiver just in front of the stock, and is fully ambidextrous. The magazine release is on the right side of the gun above the front of the trigger guard and can be pressed with the right index finger. The forward assist is a button on the top right of the receiver, and is used to manually close the bolt in case of an extremely dirty gun failing to close the bolt all the way. The bolt release is on the left side of the gun above the front of the trigger guard and allows the bolt to snap shut without needing to pull the charging handle.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Rotate the fire selector until the gun is on SAFE.
3) Take a magazine and push it up into the magazine well until it locks into place. Pull down on it slightly to ensure that it is securely in.
4) Pull the charging handle all the way back and let it snap forward.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
This cannot be done, as there is no external hammer.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Take a magazine and push it up into the magazine well until it locks into place. Pull down on it slightly to ensure that it is securely in.
3) To fire, pull the charging handle all the way back and let it snap forward.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Press the magazine release above the trigger guard and pull the magazine free.
3) Pull the charging handle all the way back. Visually inspect the chamber for remaining rounds.
4) Let the charging handle snap forward.
5) Pull the trigger. The firing pin should hit an empty chamber.
6) Set the selector to "safe."
Field Stripping:
1) Set the fire selector to SAFE.
2) Remove the magazine and set it aside.
3) Pull the bolt back to clear the chamber and press the bolt release to close the bolt.
4) Using a small, pointed object (including a .223 bullet), push the rear take-down pin on the right through to the left side of the gun. The pin will not fall out.
5) Pivot the upper receiver up and pull on the charging handle to begin pulling the bolt carrier out. When the charging handle stops moving, continue pulling the bolt carrier out of the gun.
6) When the bolt carrier is out, the charging handle will drop out of its groove in the receiver and can be removed.
Reverse to reassemble.
Design Quirks:
The upper and lower receivers of an AR-15 are extremely easy to swap out, as they are only held together by two pins. While the lower receiver is classified and regulated as a firearm, the upper receiver is classified as a part and can be bought with just as much simplicity as a new barrel or gas tube. It is also very simple to swap upper receivers to change the caliber, barrel length or even the gas system of the rifle.
Model: FN FAL
The FAL is a battle rifle designed by FN of Belgium as the standard issue rifle of NATO, though the United States chose the M14 after a controversial trial. Unlike a true assault rifle, the FAL is a battle rifle, firing a full-power rifle round rather than an intermediate cartridge. This gives it a heavy recoil and makes automatic fire difficult to keep on target.
The first prototype, chambered in the 7.92x33mm Kurz round of the StG44, was produced in 1947. The US military convinced FN to switch to a new .30 Light Rifle cartridge, later standardized as 7.62x51mm NATO. The FAL was first mass produced in 1953 and was nicknamed the "right arm of the free world" for its use in NATO as the counterpart to the AK47 and AKM.
The StG 58, the former service rifle of Austria, features a folding bipod, plastic stock, and combination flash hider/grenade launcher. The L1A1 SLR is a semi-automatic inch-pattern copy used as the service rifle of the United Kingdom until the introduction of the SA80 weapon family.
Where to find:
The FAL has been used in over 90 countries and is legal as a commercial sporting rifle in the United States. All automatic rifles imported to the United States in the late 80s and 90s had the upper receiver destroyed to demilitarize them. While these rifles were later sold as parts kits for hobbyists to build semi-automatic FALs, fully automatic ones are very difficult to find. There are however, several companies in the United States that make modern versions of the FAL pattern rifle in almost any configuration.
Complexity:
As a service rifle meant to be used by all NATO countries, the rifle is very simple and easy to maintain and produce. The recoil is lighter than most other battle rifles of the same caliber, but still rather intense. The rifle is very reliable and has a smooth, well-balanced action.
Size and weight:
Weight 3.79 - 5.95 kg (8.6 - 13.1 lbs). Barrel length 436 - 533 mm (17.2 - 21 in.). Total length 998 - 1125 mm (39.3 - 44.3 in.)
Action:
Gas operated, tilting breechblock, select fire/semi-automatic
Caliber(s):
7.62x51mm NATO
.308 Winchester
Magazine:
Detachable box magazine, 20 or 30 rounds.
Trigger:
Single action
Controls:
The safety is on the left side of the trigger group. Push it down to E for fire and up to S for safe. The charging handle is on the left side of the receiver. The magazine release is in front of the trigger guard, just behind the magazine well. The gas regulator is a knurled knob just behind the front sight, and can increase the flow of gas to prevent jamming while fighting in a dirty or dusty environment.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point the gun in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Set the fire selector to S for safe.
3) Take a magazine and insert it into the magazine well until it snaps into place. Tug it slightly to check that it is seated properly.
4) Pull the charging handle all the way to the rear and let it snap forward.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
This cannot be done, as there is no external hammer.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point the gun in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Take a magazine and insert it into the magazine well until it snaps into place. Tug it slightly to check that it is seated properly.
3) To make ready to fire, pull the charging handle back and let it snap forward.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Turn the safety on.
3) Press the magazine release in front of the trigger guard forward and pull the magazine free.
4) Pull the charging handle all the way back. Visually inspect the chamber for remaining rounds.
5) Let the charging handle snap forward.
6) Pull the trigger. The firing pin should hit an empty chamber.
7) Set the selector to safe.
Field Stripping:
1) Clear the weapon of any ammunition.
2) Set the selector to safe.
3) Ensure that the bolt is forward and pull the frame-locking lever on the rear-left side of the receiver back.
4) Pivot the upper receiver down and pull the bolt carrier slide rod out of the gun.
5) Pull the bolt carrier and bolt out.
6) Slide the receiver cover off the gun.
7) Depress the rear of the firing pin and pivot the bolt out of the bolt carrier.
8) Keep pressure on the rear of the firing pin and, using a pointed object (such as a rifle round), push the non-flared side of the firing pin retaining pin through the bolt and remove it.
9) Remove the firing pin and allow the firing pin spring to fall out of the bolt body.
10). Press in the plunger on the gas plug and rotate the gas plug clockwise to remove it. The gas piston is spring loaded, so have a hand in place to catch it.
11) Remove the gas piston spring from the gas piston.
Reverse steps for assembly.
Design Quirks: The FAL fires a big bore round, as such it recoils more heavily then rifles that fire smaller rounds.
Model: M14
The M14 is a battle rifle derived from the M1 Garand. From 1957 to 1970, it was the standard issue service rifle of the United States infantry until its replacement by the M16. Despite its replacement, it is still in use in modern times as a marksman's rifle, specifically the M21 and M25 sniper rifles.
About 1.5 million M14s have been made since its production in 1959, even though production officially stopped in 1964. It still remains in limited front line service and several other countries continue to make use of it, including Haiti and Lithuania.
The M14A1 is an automatic version with a fire selector, hinged buttplate, and a bipod to act as a squad automatic weapon. The M14M is a semi-automatic version used for the Civilian Marksmanship Program, while the M14NM is an M14M made to National Match accuracy standards, and is used with a scope by the U.S. military as the M14 SMUD (Stand-off Munition Disruption) for destroying unexploded ordinance. The Mk 14 Mod 0 EBR is a heavily modified version with a telescoping stock, pistol grip, Harris bipod, new front sight, four Picatinny rails around the barrel, and a muzzle brake, and it is used by the Navy SEALS.
The M1A is a civilian version chambered in .308 Winchester with no accessories, with the Loaded package adding a bipod, railed handguard, and scope. The SOCOM series and Scout Squad are short-barreled M14s, and the M21 Tactical is a civilian version of the M21 Designated Marksman Rifle.
Where to find:
The M14 is not only still in use with the United States as both a sniper rifle and a battle rifle, it is a popular civilian weapon. The M1A is the most common civilian variant, costing about $1700. The rifle isn't cheap, but impressive enough to warrant consideration.
Complexity:
The M14 is a reliable, albeit somewhat heavy, battle rifle. It was designed to be simple and rugged and can operate effectively in dirty, humid jungles.
Size and weight:
Weight 5.2 kg (11.5 lbs). Barrel length 559 mm (22 in.). Total length 1181 mm (46.5 in.).
Action:
Gas-operated, rotating bolt
Caliber(s):
7.62x51mm NATO
.308 Winchester
Magazine:
Detachable box magazine. 5, 10, 15, 20, and 30 rounds.
Trigger:
Single-action
Controls:
The safety is on the front of the trigger guard; push out of the trigger guard for FIRE, push into the trigger guard for SAFE. The operating rod handle is on the right side of the receiver. The magazine release is a lever behind the magazine. The bolt lock is on the left side of the receiver.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Push the safety into the trigger guard to activate it.
3) Take a loaded magazine and insert the front into the magazine well, then rock it back into place.
4) Pull the operating rod handle back and let it snap forward.
To fire, push the safety outward.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Not possible.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Take a loaded magazine and insert the front into the magazine well, then rock it back into place.
To fire, pull the operating rod handle back and let it snap forward.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety.
3) Push the magazine release forward and rock the magazine down and forward to remove it.
4) Pull the operating rod handle back and press the bolt lock to lock it open.
5) Check the chamber for any ammunition.
6) Pull the operating rod handle back slightly and let it snap forward.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Clear the weapon as described in the unloading procedures.
3) Flip the gun upside-down and pull the trigger guard up until the trigger housing mechanism is released. Remove it.
4) Place the stock on a flat surface (still upside-down) and pull the rear sight/receiver down and off.
5) Pull the operating rod spring and spring guide toward the muzzle. Slide the connector lock toward the right side of the receiver.
6) Allow the operating rod spring to slowly expand, then remove it and the spring guide.
7) Pull the operating rod handle back until the guide lug is lined up with the disassembly notch and pull it up, back, and off the receiver.
8) Slide the bolt roller forward and lift it up and out to the right-front with a slight counterclockwise rotation.
Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun. Just like the FAL, the M14 fires a big bore round. As such it will have more muzzle climb and recoil then rifle firing a smaller round.
Model: Remington 700
The Remington 700 is a popular series of bolt-action rifles that have been produced since 1962. There's a very large number of variants, and the gun is popular with police forces worldwide. The Malaysian and Indonesian militaries use them, and the U.S. Marine Corps. uses them as the M40 and the U.S. Army as the M24 Sniper Weapon System. It is in major use with civilians for hunting and target shooting.
The Remington 700P is the standard police version, with a 26'' heavy barrel. The Remington 700P Light Tactical Rifle (LTR) has a 26'' fluted barrel. Both optionally come with a Tactical Weapons System (TWS) package, including a telescopic sight, bipod, and carrying case. With match-quality ammo and a good scope, both are capable of extremely high accuracy.
The M24 and M40 both have a custom-fitted heavy contour barrel. The M24 has a long action bolt-face, while the M40 has a short action bolt-face.
Where to find:
Along with being in very heavy use with police forces (Almost every police force in the United States has access to at least one) and in modified forms with the U.S. military, the 700 is very popular as a hunting and target rifle. One could say that among hunting rifles, it's about as popular as an M1911 variant is among handgun shooters. The gun is fairly affordable at around $600-700 for the base model, and scopes are in good supply. Replacement parts are easy to order from Remington.
Complexity:
The bolt-action mechanism is very simple and easy to use, and the internals are made of the highest quality steel. However, due to the bolt's multiple component brazed together construction, the bolt handle can snap off under extreme cold, from very rough use, or from impacts. Therefore, it'd recommended that the bolt be worked as smoothly and gently as possible.
Size and weight:
Weight 84 ounces (3.06 kg) unloaded. Length 1054mm. Barrel: 558-660mm, depending on model.
Action:
Single shot bolt-action, Mauser bolt.
Caliber(s):
.17 Rem
.17 Rem Fireball
.204 Ruger
.220 Swift
.223 Remington
.22-250 Rem
.243 Win
.25-06 Rem
.264 Win Mag
.270 Winchester
.270 WSM
.280 Remington
7mm-08 Rem
7mm Rem Mag
7mm RUM
.30-06 22"
.308 Win
.300 WSM
.300 Win Mag
.300 RUM
.338 RUM
.338 Win Mag
.338 Lapua Mag
.35 Whelen
.375 H&H
.375 RUM
.458 WM
Magazine:
Internal magazine or detachable steel box magazine. 3-6 rounds, depending on caliber.
Trigger:
Trigger pull can be adjusted by adjusting the screws in the trigger. Pull can be adjusted greatly (1.5 to 2.5 pounds is preferred). However, some Remington 700s, when the trigger creep is adjusted out of the trigger, can make the sear engagement too low to hold the firing pin back. As such, taking the gun off safe may have a chance of causing it to go off. Adjust the trigger yourself at your own risk!
Controls:
Bolt runs into the chamber and barrel, which make up the receiver of the rifle. The wood or polymer that the receiver is bedded in is called the furniture, or the stock.
Bolt handle hangs down on the right side for standard models. To work the bolt, rotate the handle upwards until it stops, then firmly draw to the rear. Reverse the action to close the bolt. Gun will not fire unless the bolt handle is completely down. The safety sits on the back of the bolt. Push forward to disengage, pull back to engage.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pull the safety back to engage it.
3) Pull the bolt handle back to expose the chamber.
4) Take a cartridge and push it nose-forward down into the magazine through the top of the gun.
5) Repeat until the magazine is full.
6) Push the bolt handle forward and turn it down to lock it.
6) To load a full magazine with one in the chamber, load a single cartridge into the chamber, and hold down the loaded rounds with your thumb as you push the bolt forward.
With a detachable box magazine
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pull the safety back to engage it.
3) Pull the bolt handle back to expose the chamber.
4) Take the magazine and press both latches on the bottom of the magazine inward.
5) Push the magazine into the magazine well in front of trigger guard until the latches snap into place.
6) Load one cartridge into the chamber from the top of the gun. Push all of the cartridges down with your thumb.
7) Push the bolt handle forward and turn it down to lock it.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
There is no way to do this with a bolt-action rifle.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Insert the magazine into the bottom of the weapon. This is not possible on an internal magazine model.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges! .
2) Pull back the bolt handle back to remove the cartridge from the chamber. Do not attempt to catch the cartridge; retrieve all ammo after the weapon is completely unloaded.
3) If the gun has a floor plate: Push the floor plate latch in front of the trigger guard to release the floor plate. Remove the cartridges and push the magazine follower in, then close the floor plate.
3) If the gun does not have a floor plate: Push the bolt slowly forward and slowly pull it back to remove the next cartridge from the magazine. Do not push too far forward, or it may load the chamber. Pull the bolt handle back to release the cartridge. Repeat until the magazine is empty.
3) If the gun has a magazine: Depress both latches on the magazine and pull it out of the gun.
Field Stripping:
1) Unload the gun and place it on safe.
2) Pull the bolt handle all the way back. Push the bolt stop release in the trigger guard and slide the bolt rearwards out of the rifle.
3) Turn the rifle upside-down and remove the screws in the stock. One is in the stock and two are in the bottom of the trigger guard.
4) Lift the stock away from the receiver and trigger assembly.
5) Remove the magazine spring and follower. (If a detachable baseplate or removable magazine design, do this as the first step.)
6) Put the notch on the firing pin in the bolt over a metal edge. Put a coin in the slot near the back edge of the firing pin head.
7) Hold the bolt assembly and turn the bolt plug counter-clockwise until the firing pin assembly can be removed from the bolt assembly.
Reverse to assemble.
Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun.
Model: Ruger Mini-14
The Ruger Mini-14 is a smaller civilian version of the M14 battle rifle. It was first introduced in 1974 and proved popular with small game hunters, ranchers and farmers, police, security guards, and target shooters. The rifle is primarily chambered in .223 Remington, and since 2005 has been marketed under the name "Ranch Rifle."
While the target versions of the Mini-14 can only fire .223 Remington rounds, non-target versions can fire both .223 and the military equivalent, 5.56x45mm NATO. The Mini Thirty fires the 7.62x39mm round of most AK pattern rifles and the Mini-6.8 fires 6.8mm Remington SPC. The AC-556 is a select fire version that can fire in semi-automatic, 3-round bursts, or full auto and is marketed to the police and military. The Mini-14GB is marketed to the police and military as a semi-automatic carbine with the options of a short barrel, bayonet lug, flash hider, and folding stock.
Where to find:
The Mini-14 is very popular as an inexpensive target, small game hunting, and ranch defense rifle in the United States. Prices range from $600-700, cheaper than a good-quality AR-15. A number of police agencies, including the NYPD Organize Crime Control Bureau, use Mini-14s, while the Bermuda Regiment of the British Army use AC-556 rifles with Choate stocks. The AC-556 is rather expensive, especially with the Class 3 license needed to purchase an automatic weapon.
Complexity:
The Mini-14 is designed as a rugged, accurate rifle that can be taken out into the woods and fields and still function well. While the initial rifles had a complex, exposed bolt hold open mechanism with no manual button, they have since been retooled for a new mechanism. The new Ranch Rifles are manufactured to tighter tolerances and have greater accuracy and a modified gas system for reduced barrel vibration. The rifle is easy to disassemble and maintain. As a closed-bolt rifle, however, it is at risk of overheating from extended fire.
Size and weight:
Weight 2.9 kg (6.4 lbs). Barrel length 330 - 470 mm (13 - 8.5 in.). Total length 946 mm (37.25 in.)
Action:
Semi-automatic/select fire, gas-operated, rotating bolt
Caliber(s):
.223 Remington
5.56x45mm NATO
7.62x39mm
6.8mm Remington SPC
.222 Remington
Magazine:
Detachable box magazine of 5, 10, 20, or 30 rounds. Numerous aftermarket magazines and drums.
Trigger:
Single action
Controls:
The safety is located on the front of the trigger guard and is pushed into the trigger guard to turn it on. It can be taken off by pushing it forward and out of the trigger guard with your trigger finger. The slide handle is on the right side of the receiver. The magazine latch is in front of the trigger guard. The bolt lock plunger is on the top-left of the receiver and, when the bolt is pulled all the way back, is pressed to lock the bolt back.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pull the slide handle back and press the bolt lock plunger to lock the bolt back, the push the slide handle forward.
3) Engage the safety by pushing it back into the trigger guard.
4) Take a loaded magazine and insert the top-front into the magazine well, then pivot it back into the magazine well until it lock in place.
5) Draw the slide handle back and let it snap forward.
To fire, push the safety forward out of the trigger guard.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done as there is no external hammer.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Take a loaded magazine and insert the top-front into the magazine well, then pivot it back into the magazine well until it lock in place.
To fire, pull the slide handle back and let it snap forward to load the gun.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Engage the safety.
3) Push the magazine latch forward to release the rear of the magazine. Pivot it down and pull it free from the magazine well. The magazine can drop free under gravity, but this risks damaging it.
4) Pull the slide handle all the way back and visually inspect the chamber. Insert a finger into the chamber and probe for brass and ammunition.
5) Let the slide handle snap forward and disengage the safety. Pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Engage the safety.
3) Remove the loaded magazine.
4) Pull the slide handle all the way back and inspect the chamber. Release the slide handle.
5) Insert a pointed tool into the hole in the rear of the trigger guard and lever it up. Invert the rifle and carefully pull out the trigger housing assembly.
6) Swing the rear of the barrel/receiver assembly slightly away from the action. Pull the stock out of engagement with the gas block.
7) Remove the guide rod and recoil springs.
8) Pull the slide handle to the rear and line it up with the disassembly notch to pull it off.
9) Pull the bolt forward and pivot it up and out of the receiver.
Reverse to assemble.
Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun.
Model: M1 Garand
The M1 Garand is an extraordinarily famous rifle as it was the first semi-automatic rifle to be issued as the general service rifle of a country's armed forces. The Garand, known to the military as United States Rifle, Caliber .30, M1, was designed by John Garand in 1932 and was selected as the general service rifle of the United States infantry in 1936. Even after being replaced by the M14, the Garand remained in use in large numbers until 1963 and in lesser use until 1966.
The Garand is a gas-operated, rotating bolt rifle, a similar action to the AK-47. The Garand was practically the one force effectively stopping Japanese banzai charges in World War II due to the large bullet and semi-automatic capability, and was known to pass through three Japanese soldiers with one shot. The rifle has since been modernized by some manufacturers to load .308 Winchester.
Where to find:
The Garand is very popular among military enthusiasts and firearms collectors, fetching close to $1000 for some pristine models. However, they can be found for lower prices, generally $500-700. The Civilian Marksmanship Program, in particular, sells surplus rifles, including Garands, to CMP members. It is a fairly popular hunting and target shooting rifle.
Complexity:
The Garand has a simple gas system which is easy to maintain. It was designed as a soldier's weapon, so it is quite resistant to jamming and can be disassembled without tools. However, the en bloc clip prevents the rifle from being topped up in between firefights without practice, and many inexperienced operators have gotten "M1 Thumb" or "Garand Thumb" from the bolt snapping shut on their thumb after pushing a clip into the rifle.
Size and weight:
Weight 4.31 - 5.3 kg (9.5 - 11.6 lbs). Barrel length 609.6 mm (24 in.). Total length 1104.9 mm (43.5 in.).
Action:
Semi-automatic, gas-operated, rotating bolt
Caliber(s):
.30-06
.308 Winchester
7.62x51mm NATO
Magazine:
8-round internal magazine, loaded with en bloc clip
Trigger:
Single action
Controls:
The safety is located on the front of the trigger guard; push outside of the trigger guard for fire, push into the trigger guard for fire. The operating rod handle is on the right side of the receiver. The clip latch is located on the left side of the receiver and can be used to eject a partially-empty clip.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Push the safety into the trigger guard to activate it.
3) Pull the operating rod handle all the way back to lock the bolt open.
4) While holding the operating rod handle back, take an en bloc clip (it has no top or bottom; if the rounds are pointing forward, it can be loaded) and push it all the way down into the magazine. Be careful, as the bolt with snap shut as soon as downward pressure is removed from the clip.
5) Remove your thumb from the receiver and let the operating rod handle spring forward under its own pressure. Push the handle with the heel of your palm to ensure that it is closed.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done, as there is no external hammer.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
This can only be done with a partially-empty clip.
1) Point the gun in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pull the operating rod handle to the rear to remove the cartridge from the chamber and hold the handle to the rear.
3) Depress the top cartridge and slowly allow the bolt to move forward over the top of the cartridge about an inch.
4) Remove your thumb from the cartridge.
5) Allow the bolt to move forward into the empty chamber.
To prepare for firing, pull the operating rod handle back enough to let the clip move up, then close the bolt and strike the operating rod handle with the heel of your palm to make sure it closes.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pull the operating rod handle all the way to the rear to lock the bolt back and eject the cartridge in the chamber.
3) Place your left hand over the receiver and use your thumb to press the clip latch, ejecting the clip into your hand.
4) Push the operating rod slightly to the rear and press the magazine follower down with your thumb.
5) Slowly allow the bolt to move forward, remove your thumb, and let it continue until it closes.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Invert the rifle and pull the rear of the trigger guard up until the trigger housing group is out of the rifle.
3) Pull the rear sights and receiver down to separate the barrel and receiver from the stock.
4) Grasp the follower rod of the receiver and pull it towards the muzzle. Lift it slightly (it is under spring pressure) and remove the operating rod spring and follower rod.
5) Remove the follower rod pin.
6) Lift the operating rod catch assembly, bullet guide, and follower arm away from the receiver.
7) Lift the follower assembly out of the receiver.
8) Pull the operating rod to the rear until it is aligned with the rear of the disassembly notch. Using an upward and
outward movement disengage the operating rod from the receiver. Remove the operating rod by pulling to the rear and then downward.
9) Grasp the right lug of the bolt and, while sliding it forward, lift the bolt upward and outward to the right front with a slight counterclockwise rotation.
Reverse to assemble.
rotating motion
Design Quirks:
The M1 Garand's most unpopular feature is arguably the clip ejection system; upon firing the last round, the empty clip is ejected with a loud ping that easily echoes off a hard surface, potentially alerting enemies that your rifle is empty. Because of the way the rifle is loaded and unloaded, scoping the rifle takes a special mount.
Model: Mosin-Nagant
The Mosin-Nagant is currently THE longest-serving military rifle. It was first produced in 1891 Artillery Colonel Sergei Ivanovich Mosin, who designed the bolt and receiver, and Emile Nagant of Belgium, who designed the magazine. It was the first rifle to use the 7.62x54mmR cartridge used in the modern Dragunov sniper rifle and PKM machine gun, and remained in front line use in Europe until the 1960s as a sniper rifle. Even today, the rifle is still used in conflicts around the world, especially in Africa and the Middle East, due to its tough build and cheap price.
The Mosin-Nagant is found mainly in several forms: the 91/30 is the most prolific rifle, and has the longest barrel and was commonly used as a sniper rifle. The M38 is a carbine with a shortened barrel and stock, and the M44 is essentially the same as the M38 but with a cruciform bayonet permanently attached to the side. The M38 is the only one of these three main models that doesn't come with a bayonet. In Finland, a modernized version of the rifle, the Tkiv 85, is used as a sniper rifle and these rifles often have receivers over a century old.
Where to find:
Not only is the Mosin still seeing use in wars around the world as a cheap, tough, and powerful rifle, it's also a very popular target and hunting rifle in North America; most American game up to small grizzlies can be downed by the large bullet. Millions of these rifles were produced after World War II and packed in cosmoline to prepare for a big war that never came, and when World War III never surfaced they were bought up and shipped off to the United States. As a military surplus rifle, they can be found for $150 for a very good-quality model and as low as $60-90 for a rougher build.
Complexity:
The Mosin-Nagant was built to last; rifles that saw use in Berlin in 1945 are still shooting just the same in 2010. They're extremely rugged and can stand up to a lot of grime and abuse and still shoot. Some rifles have receivers over 100 years old! Unfortunately, quite a few wartime rifles were built in a rush to supply new conscripts and some corners were cut, making these rifles rougher and less accurate at long range. Moreover, the rifles are heavy and long and have a lot of recoil, making them unsuitable for smaller or weaker shooters.
Size and weight:
91/30: Weight 4 kg (8.8 lbs). Barrel length 730 mm (28.7 in.). Total length 1287 mm (50.7 in.).
M38: Weight 3.4 kg (7.5 lbs). Barrel length 514mm (20.2 in.). Total length 1013 mm (39.9 in.).
M44: Weight 4.1 kg (9 lbs). Barrel length 514mm (20.2 in.). Total length 1013 mm (39.9 in.).
Action:
Bolt-action
Caliber(s):
7.62x54mmR
7.62x53mmR (Finnish variants only)
Magazine:
Non-detachable box magazine. 5 rounds.
Trigger:
Single action.
Controls:
The safety is a knob on the back of the bolt; to set the rifle to SAFE, pull the knob back, turn it to the left, and let it slide forward. To set it to FIRE, pull it back, turn it to the right, and slide it forward. The magazine open catch is on the bottom of the magazine. Other than that, there are no controls beyond the bolt and trigger.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Open the bolt by turning the bolt handle up and to the left and pulling back.
3) Take a cartridge and push it nose-forward down into the magazine through the top of the gun.
4) Repeat until the magazine is full.
4) With a stripper clip: Place the bottom of the clip into the clip guide at the back of the bolt and push the rounds down with your thumb into the magazine. Remove the clip.
5) Push the bolt handle forward and turn it down to lock it.
6) To load a full magazine with one in the chamber, load a single cartridge into the chamber, and hold down the loaded rounds with your thumb as you push the bolt forward.
7) Pull the safety knob back, turn it to the left, and slide it forward.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Open the bolt and pull it to the rear of the receiver.
3) Turn the gun upside-down and push the magazine open catch toward the trigger guard.
4) Open the bottom of the magazine by tilting it forward on its hinge toward the muzzle.
5) Turn the gun over and let the rounds spill out of the gun.
6) Close the bolt.
7) Pull the trigger.
8) Activate the safety by pulling it back, turning it to the left, and sliding it forward.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Clear the gun as described in the unloading procedures. Deactivate the safety.
3) Unscrew the cleaning rod under the barrel counterclockwise.
4) Press the barrel band retaining springs and slide the barrel bands forward, past the end of the stock. They cannot go past the front sight.
5) Remove the handguard.
6) Hold the trigger while pulling the bolt straight to the rear.
7) Dec*ck the bolt by turning the c*cking knob 90 degrees counterclockwise and pull the bolt head and connector bar forward.
8) Rotate the bolt head 90 degrees clockwise and pull it off the connector bar. Using the large notch on the bolt tool or the connector bar as a wrench, grasp the firing pin between your fingers and unscrew it counterclockwise. Be careful to grasp it firmly as the spring is under pressure.
9) Remove the magazine tang screw in front of the magazine.
10) Remove the receiver tang screw at the back of the receiver.
11) Remove the magazine assembly and receiver assembly from the stock.
12) Press the floorplate latch and pull the floorplate away from the magazine. Compress the follower assembly and pull it away from the magazine.
Reverse to reassemble.
Design Quirks:
A very large amount of rifles shipped to the United States after the Cold War ended never had the cosmoline cleaned out. This waxy substance used to preserve the rifles for decades is quite difficult to clear from the gun, and is almost impossible to 100% remove without very detailed cleaning.
Model: Winchester 1894
The quintessential "Cowboy gun", the Winchester 1894 is a modernized version of the 1873, the "Gun That Won The West". The 1894 is part of a series of recognizable lever-action rifles, chambered in a variety of rounds. Over 7.5 million have been produced, making it the best-selling high-powered hunting rifle in the United States.
As the name suggests, the Model 1894 was first produced in 1894 as the first hunting rifle chambered for smokeless powder cartridges. Since then, it has been the first sporting rifle to sell over 7 million units; Calvin Coolidge received the millionth, Harry Truman received the millionth and a half, and Dwight Eisenhower received the two millionth. With over a century of history, the rifle is still common as a hunting and sport shooting rifle across the U.S.
Where to find:
As stated above, the Winchester Model 1894 has sold well over 7 million units; it's available in a variety of calibers and prices, ranging from $120 to $2000 and higher at gun stores around the U.S.
Complexity:
As a hunting rifle, it's rugged and easy to maintain in the field, despite the rather complex action. They accept a variety of ammunition qualities. There are mixed reports on the reliability with pistol calibers, as the action was designed around the longer .30-30 Winchester cartridge, though the rifle in general has received favorable reviews.
Size and weight:
Weight 3.1 kg (6.8 lbs). Barrel length 508 mm (20 in.). Total length 960 mm (37.8 in.).
Action:
Lever-action
Caliber(s):
.30-30 Winchester
.38 Special
.38-55
.357 Magnum
.44 Magnum
.44 Special
.45 Long Colt
.44-40 Winchester
.450 Marlin
Magazine:
Tubular magazine, 6 or 7 rounds.
Trigger:
Single action.
Controls:
The safety is on top of the rifle; push forward for OFF, back for ON.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Push the safety back into the ON position.
3) Pull the lever down and load a cartridge directly into the chamber. Pull the lever back up to load the chamber.
4) Push the remaining cartridges into the loading port nose-first until the magazine is loaded.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Push the safety back into the ON position.
3) Pull the lever down and load a cartridge directly into the chamber. Pull the lever back up to load the chamber.
4) Push the remaining cartridges into the loading port nose-first until the magazine is loaded.
5) Pull the trigger, allowing the hammer to drop into the rebound position.
6) Take the safety off.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Push the cartridges into the loading port nose-first until the magazine is loaded.
To prepare to fire, rotate the lever down, then back up to load the chamber.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Push the safety back into the ON position.
3) Work the lever until all of the cartridges have been ejected.
4) When no more cartridges eject, open the chamber and visually check for any remaining rounds.
5) Raise the lever.
6) Pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
No disassembly is required for regular maintenence; should complex disassembly be required (such as after being submerged in water), a competent gunsmith should be given the job.
Design Quirks:
The top-ejecting design makes it difficult to mount a scope on older rifles, requiring either side mounts or barrel mounts. Starting in the 1980s, the shells were ejected at an angle, allowing for normal scope mounts.
Pointed or conical bullets with non-plastic tips (designed specifically for tubular magazines) should NOT be used in the rifle; there is a risk of the pointed nose of the bullet detonating the primer on the bullet ahead of it and taking your hand off.
Model: SKS
This self-loading rifle was the precursor to the AK-47 in the Russian military, firing the same round as the assault rifle. The Simonov SKS was introduced into service in 1949, supplementing the AK-47 as it was slowly introduced into the entire military. Despite its short run as a front line weapon, the SKS was still an excellent semi-automatic rifle for the time.
Much like the Mosin-Nagant, large amounts of the SKS can be found as surplus rifles in the United States. Many modifications can be had, including synthetic stocks, pistol grips, extended magazines, and rail systems for mounting optics and accessories.
Where to find:
The SKS was imported into the United States in large amounts, making it a fairly common cheap starter rifle at $200-300. However, the price is unlikely to drop as there is a fixed amount of weapons available to import; on the other hand, AR-15s and AKs are still being produced and put into the market, allowing the price to drop on them.
Complexity:
As with most Soviet weapons, the SKS is designed to be very reliable and rugged in any terrain. One should take care to clean any cosmoline off the bolt and firing pin, as a gunked-up firing pin can cause it to stick forward and cause "slamfire", an uncontrollable full-auto mag dump.
Size and weight:
Weight 3.85 kg (8.5 lbs). Barrel length 521 or 558.8 mm (20.5 or 22 in.). Total length 1021 or 1117 mm (40.2 or 44 in.)
Action:
Gas-operated tilting bolt
Caliber(s):
7.62x39mm
Magazine:
10 round internal box magazine. 30 round detachable magazines available.
Trigger:
Single-action.
Controls:
The safety is a lever on the right-rear of the trigger guard; pivot it up for SAFE and down for FIRE. The charging lever is on the right side of the gun. The magazine release is in front of the trigger guard and only used for unloading the rifle.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pivot the safety up into the ON position.
3) Pull the charging handle back until the action locks open.
4) Either load the magazine with single rounds or place a stripper clip in the clip guide in the rear of the receiver, push the rounds into the magazine, and remove the clip.
5) Pull the charging handle back slightly and let it snap forward.
To fire, pivot the safety down.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pull the charging handle back until the action locks open.
3) Either load the magazine with single rounds or place a stripper clip in the clip guide in the rear of the receiver, push the rounds into the magazine, and remove the clip.
To fire, pull the charging handle back and let it snap forward.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pivot the safety up into the ON position.
3) Push the magazine release forward and pivot the magazine down, letting the rounds fall out.
4) Pull the charging handle back to eject the round in the chamber. Examine the chamber for any ammunition.
5) Release the charging handle.
6) Deactivate the safety.
7) Pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Unload the gun as described above.
3) Press the rear of the receiver cover forward with your thumb. Rotate with the right hand the receiver cover retaining pin arm upward to its vertical position and pull the pin out to the right as far as possible.
4) Allow the receiver cover to move back by about 1/2 and inch and remove it by sliding it to the rear.
5) Remove the recoil spring from the rear of the bolt carrier.
6) Pull the bolt back as far as it will go, and remove entire assembly.
7) Use a pin punch to pry the lever located on the right of rear sight base into the position where the camming surface located at the front is completely vertical.
8) Raise the handguard assembly and rock it slowly from side to side until it can be pulled away from the gas block.
9) Pull the gas piston out of the handguard assembly.
Reverse to assemble.
Design Quirks:When buying an SKS you can actually check the accuracy of it SOLELY by looking at it, know how? Look at the front sight, see a number? (1, 2, or 3) When the Russkies test fired the SKS they stamped the rifles front sights with one of the numbers with 1 being the best and 3 being the worst.
Model: Heckler & Koch MP5
The MP5 (Machine-Pistole 5) is a submachine gun based on the Heckler & Koch G3 assault rifle. Work on the MP5 began in 1964. Within two years, it gained the acceptance of the German Police / Border Guard, the Bundswehr and a number of special forces units. It was unique in it's time for being one of the few closed-bolt submachine guns, the roller-delayed blowback giving exceptional accuracy and recoil control.
Though heavy and somewhat ergonomically difficult, the MP5 has been the dominant sub-gun amongst militaries for the second half of the twentieth century, now with a staggering number ol variants. With the advent of PDWs (Personal Defense Weapons) such as the P90 and MP7, or even ultra-compact assault rifles, the MP5 and other submachine guns have been seeing significantly less use, but they remain strong in law enforcement use.
Where to find:
The MP5 is one of the most famous weapons in the world. It can be found in the hands of 41 different countries' military and police forces, including the SWAT teams of the United States, Authorised Firearms Officers in the United Kingdom, and the majority of the German police and military. However, in general, H&K is not especially friendly toward civilian sales and the selection for the common person is quite limited. The HK94 is a legal civilian version that can only fire in semi-automatic and has a 16 inch carbine barrel, while the SP89 is an MP5K converted into a semi-automatic pistol. Both of these can be bought legally for civilian use and registered. However, there are very few full-auto MP5s in civilian hands. Also, both automatic MP5's (and the Class 3 license needed to purchase them) and semi-auto versions are quite expensive, at several thousand dollars minimum.
Complexity:
The weapon is quite reliable and has a thick recoil spring. It is a very high-quality weapon, hence the cost. Due to the closed-bolt operation, a magazine loaded with the full 30 rounds (rather than 29) may fail to seat properly if the bolt group is forward. Also, when converted to .22LR the gun has reliability issues; with every two or three magazines, an empty case will fail to extract and the bolt will travel rearward and then forward, stripping a another round from the magazine and attempting to chamber it. Sometimes this stoppage is easy to clear, but all too often the empty case or loaded cartridge will either wedge into some inconvenient location in the bolt group or drop down into the trigger group, requiring disassembly of the weapon.
Size and weight:
Weight 4.4 pounds (2 kg) to 7.9 pounds (3.6 kg) unloaded depending on the model. Barrel length 4.5 inches (115 mm) to 8.9 inches (225 mm). Overall length 12.8 inches (325 mm) to 31.7 inches (805 mm).
Action:
Select fire (semi or full auto, with optional 2 or 3 round burst) for military and police models, semi-auto for civilian models. Roller-delayed blowback, closed bolt.
Caliber(s):
9x19mm Parabellum
10mm Auto (MP5/10)
.40 S&W (MP5/40)
Magazine:
15, 30, or 32-round steel detachable box magazine or 100 round Beta-C drum magazine.
Trigger:
Single action.
Controls:
Interchangeable polymer trigger module with three-position fire selector. In the SEF trigger group, the positions are S (Sicher) for safe, E (Einzelfeuer) for semi-automatic, and F (Feuerstoß) fully automatic, all on the left side within reach of the right thumb. It can also take a three-position fire selector with pictograms for safe, semi, or 3-round burst, an ambidextrous four-position selector with pictograms for safe, semi, 2 or 3-round burst, and fully automatic, an ambidextrous two-position selector for safe and semi, and the ambidextrous Navy trigger group with three positions for safe, semi, and fully automatic.
The cocking handle is at a 45 degree angle above the handguard. Pulling it back and rotating it slightly clockwise (up) locks the lever. The magazine release is a paddle directly behind the magazine well, with an additional button on the right side.
The rear sight is a drum that can be rotated for various aperture sizes.
The telescoping stock versions are adjusted by a lever under the stock attachment point, while the folding stock model is released by pulling upwards on the stock itself.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Insert the magazine into the well, straight in, pulling to ensure it is locked in place.
3) To make ready to fire, draw the cocking lever fully to the rear and release it under it's own tension. Riding the handle forward may cause a malfunction!*
4) Place the fire selector on safe. Depending on the trigger group, this will either be a 0, S, or pictogram of a crossed-out bullet.
"HK Slap" - A unique technique done with MP5s because it is somewhat difficult to insert a fully loaded magazine.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Grasp the cocking handle and draw it to the rear. Rotate it upwards into it's notch.
3) Insert the magazine into the well, straight in, pulling to ensure it is locked in place.
4) Rotate the cocking lever downwards - most slap it into place, hence the name.
5) Place the fire selector on safe. Depending on the trigger group, this will either be a 0, S, or pictogram of a crossed-out bullet.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
This is not possible on the MP5.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Insert the magazine into the well, straight in, pulling to ensure it is locked in place.
3) To make ready to fire, draw the cocking lever fully to the rear and release it under it's own tension. Riding the handle forward may cause a malfunction!
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Squeeze the magazine release and tug the magazine free of the gun.
3) Pull the cocking lever fully to the rear and lock it upward.
4) Examine the chamber visually, then probe with your finger.
5) Release the cocking lever and pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
Instructional Video
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Clear the weapon as described in the unloading procedures
3) Remove the stock locking pin and slide the stock off to the rear.
4) Swing down the trigger group, then slide the bolt assembly and recoil spring clear of the receiver by pulling the cocking lever to the rear.
5) Remove the handguard pin and pull it from the gun.
6) Pull the recoil spring rearward and off the gun.
7) Rotate the bolt head 90 degrees clockwise and detach it from the locking piece, then remove the locking piece, firing pin and firing pin spring from the bolt head carrier.
8) To remove the trigger mechanism, decock the hammer, rotate the selective fire lever to its vertical position, and pull it out to free the housing.
Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun.
Model: MAC-10/MAC-11
The MAC-10 (Military Armament Corporation Model 10, officially the M10) is a machine pistol designed by Gordon Ingram in 1964. It is a blowback-operated automatic weapon, made primarily of steel stampings, that was in use with the United States Special Forces during the Vietnam War. However, it was only in service from 1970-1975. The MAC-10 is an ultra-compact weapon firing .45 ACP or 9x19mm Parabellum rounds for good stopping power, though the rate of fire (over 1000 rounds per minute) greatly decreases accuracy. An inexperienced user can easily empty the magazine in under a second with few bullets hitting the intended target, and even short bursts are ineffective past 20 meters. Many guns have a front strap that can be held to steady the weapon.
The MAC-11 is a smaller variant chambered for .380 ACP, though this is the least common of the firearm series due to the low stopping power of the round. The M11/9 is chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum, and was later produced by Cobray (the Cobray guns can be recognized by the elongated receivers).
One of the most famous aspects of the MAC-10 and MAC-11 is the large suppressor produced for the gun; the revolutionary suppressor by Sionics was a two-stage design that was extraordinarily effective in quieting the sound of the discharge and also made the weapon easier to hold and control.
Where to find:
The MAC-10 is one of the cheapest fully automatic firearms in the United States. Of course, this is hardly something to be proud of; the gun still costs around $3000. Both the automatic gun and the suppressor are classified as Title II weapons, forcing a lot of legal red tape to be cut through to get the most effective package. The semi-automatic versions are much cheaper and easier to acquire.
Complexity:
The MAC-10 is an extraordinarily simple and cheap gun; it has relatively few moving parts and is easy to field strip for maintenance. When new, the gun is quite reliable and the parts are inexpensive, with Cobray still selling replacement parts for the 9mm copies. The biggest problem is the ridiculously high rate of fire, which makes it difficult to keep the gun on target past short range.
Size and weight:
Weight 2.84 kg (6.26 lbs) empty and w/o suppressor. Barrel length 146 mm (5.74 in.). Total length 269 mm (10.7 in.) with stock removed to 798 mm (2 ft, 7.4 in.) with stock extended and suppressor attached.
Action:
Blowback
Caliber(s):
.45 ACP
9x19mm Parabellum
.380 ACP (MAC-11)
Magazine:
Detachable box magazine, 30 rounds (.45 ACP), 32 rounds (9x19mm), or 16 or 32 rounds (.380 ACP).
Trigger:
Single action
Controls:
The safety is on the right side of the frame above the trigger guard; forward for fire, back for safe. The cocking knob is on top of the gun, and on the M11/9 it also acts as a safety; turning it 90 degrees locks the knob forward. The fire selector is on the left front of the frame and has labels for SEMI and FULL. The magazine release is on the bottom of the back of the handgrip and can be pressed with your thumb as you tug the magazine free.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Ensure that the safety is off.
3) Take a magazine and insert it into the bottom of the handguard until it clicks into place. Tug on it slightly to ensure that it is in.
4) Grasp the cocking knob and pull it all the way back, then let it move forward under spring pressure.
5) Turn the safety on.
To fire, move the safety forward and pull the trigger.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Ensure that the safety is off.
3) Take a magazine and insert it into the bottom of the handguard until it clicks into place. Tug on it slightly to ensure that it is in.
To fire, **** the gun and pull the trigger.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Turn the safety on.
3) Press the magazine release and tug the magazine free.
4) Pull the cocking knob back to clear the chamber and visually inspect the chamber for ammunition.
5) Release the cocking knob.
6) Pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Clear the weapon as described in the unloading procedures.
3) Push the receiver pin catch on the front of the receiver back and remove the receiver pin from the gun. If there is no catch, simply press sharply on the receiver pin.
4) Pull the upper receiver up and off the gun.
5) Slide the cocking knob to the rear, turn it a few degrees, and pull it up. Slide the bolt and cocking knob out the back of the receiver.
6) If you have a stock, press the stock latch button and pull the stock off, keeping pressure on the button.
Reverse to reassemble.
Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun.
Model: FN P90
One of the oddest-looking modern firearms, the P90 is an extremely unique personal defense weapon (PDW) by the famed Belgian manufacturer FN Herstal. FN's Project 9.0 is a select-fire submachine gun designed as a replacement for the 9x19mm Parabellum submachine guns used by NATO. The P90 is a very compact bullpup weapon with the magazine placed horizontally on top of the receiver. It fires the unique 5.7x28mm pistol round, a pointed bullet designed for piercing armor; other than the AR-57, a special upper receiver for the AR-15 that uses P90 magazines, the FN Five-seven handgun is the only other weapon that fires this special round. It is fully ambidextrous, with empty casings falling from a chute in the bottom of the frame.
The P90 was first produced in 1990 and has become quite popular, especially in pop culture. The P90 TR is a variant that replaces the built-in reflex sight with a MIL-STD-1913 rail, and the weapon is available to civilians as the PS90, a semi-automatic carbine with a 16 inch barrel.
Where to find: The P90 is nowhere near as common as the MP5 or Uzi, but it is still used by over 200 law enforcement agencies as of 2009. The PS90 is popular among civilian shooters. It's quite expensive, though, at $1700 from good dealers. The select-fire P90 is only available to Class 3 dealers and is far more expensive.
Complexity: The P90 is quite unusual, with the trigger very far forward. Shooters need to be careful with their grip to keep away from the short barrel, and it's not immediately intuitive how to load and fire the weapon. The biggest problem is finding ammunition; due to the very small variety of guns that fire 5.7x28mm rounds, online dealers are the best bet for any stocks of ammo; gun stores are even refusing to buy more boxes if demand isn't big enough.
Size and weight: Weight 2.54 kg (5.60 lbs) empty. Barrel length 263 mm (10.4 in.), 406.4 mm (16 in.) for PS90. Total length 500 mm (19.7 in.).
Action: Straight blowback, closed bolt
Caliber(s): 5.7x28mm
Magazine: Detachable box magazine. 10, 30, or 50 rounds
Trigger: Single action
Controls: The safety/fire selector is a wheel below the trigger; it has spaces for safe (S), semi-auto (1), and full auto (2). The PS90 does not have a full auto selector. The cocking handle is just behind the barrel on both sides of the gun. The magazine catch is just behind the magazine on both sides of the gun.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety by twisting it so the S is in front of the trigger.
3) Take a loaded magazine and insert it into the top of the gun by sliding the forward end under the sight, then pushing the rear of the magazine down until it clicks. Pull the magazine up slightly to ensure that it is in place.
4) Pull the cocking handle back and let it snap forward.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Take a loaded magazine and insert it into the top of the gun by sliding the forward end under the sight, then pushing the rear of the magazine down until it clicks. Pull the magazine up slightly to ensure that it is in place.
To prepare for firing, pull the cocking handle back and let it snap forward.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety by twisting it so the S is in front of the trigger.
3) Pull the magazine catch behind the magazine back on both sides of the gun, then lift the back of the magazine up and pull it out of the gun.
4) Pull the cocking handle back to eject the round in the chamber and visually examine the chamber for spare ammo.
5) Release the cocking handle.
6) Set the safety to 1, or semi-automatic.
7) Pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Clear the gun as described in the unloading procedures.
3) Pull the cocking handle to the rear and release it; the gun can only be properly stripped when cocked.
4) Hold down the barrel support lock just behind the sight (where the magazine would go) and slide the barrel and sight group off the barrel.
5) Push the moving parts group forwards via the magazine opening and carefully slide it off the frame.
6) Slide the butt plate up and off the frame.
7) Raise the hammer group release lever on the butt and slide the hammer group out of the frame.
Reverse to assemble.
Design Quirks: The P90 is completely ambidextrous; the safety, magazine catch, and cocking handle are all on both sides of the gun, and the magazine catch must be pressed on both sides to release the magazine. Empty cases also eject from a chute in the bottom of the frame, avoiding the problem of a left-handed shooter being struck in the face by cases.
Model: Beretta Cx4 Storm
A companion gun to the Px4 handgun, the Beretta Cx4 is a pistol caliber carbine first sold in 2003. It's meant to be an affordable civilian carbine firing cheap, low-recoil ammunition. One of the interesting capabilities of the rifle is accepting magazines from other 9x19mm Parabellum Beretta handguns, allowing for a smaller and less varied ammunition loadout. Every caliber can also be purchased with proprietary Cx4 magazines, and the .45 ACP version only accepts proprietary magazines.
Each Cx4 includes a contoured bottom Picatinny rail for adding accessories and a side rail, and can also attach an extra side rail and a top-mounted rail. It is also one of the few weapons where the safety, ejection port, and magazine release can be switched to the right side of the weapon to accommodate left-handed shooters.
Where to find:
The Cx4 is a popular carbine for plinking, target shooting, and law enforcement markets. The price can be mid-range, around $450, or rather expensive at $700.
Complexity:
The Storm is meant to be a very simple and comfortable weapon for any civilian shooter, and has some similarities to the Px4 handgun, making it even easier for Px4 users to learn it.
Size and weight:
Weight 2.58 kg (5.68 lbs). Barrel length 422.5 mm (16.6 in.). Total length 755mm (29.7 in.).
Action:
Blowback semi-automatic
Caliber(s):
9x19mm Parabellum
9x21mm IMI
.45 ACP
.40 S&W
Magazine:
8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 20, or 30-round detachable plastic box magazine
Trigger:
Single-action
Controls:
The safety is on the left side of the gun, just below the upper receiver; when the red band is visible, the safety is OFF. The magazine release, much like on a handgun, is on the left side of the gun behind the trigger guard. The cocking handle is on the left side of the gun.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety.
3) Take a loaded magazine and push it into the magazine well in the bottom of the grip until it clicks into place. Tug on it to ensure that it is fully seated.
4) Pull the cocking handle back and let it snap forward under spring tension.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Not possible, as there is no external hammer.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Take a loaded magazine and push it into the magazine well in the bottom of the grip until it clicks into place. Tug on it to ensure that it is fully seated.
To prepare to fire, pull the cocking handle back and release.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety.
3) Push the magazine release and remove the magazine.
4) Pull the cocking handle back to eject any round in the chamber and visually inspect the chamber for stray ammunition.
5) Release the cocking handle.
6) Deactivate the safety.
7) Pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Clear the gun as described in the unloading procedure.
3) Pull the cocking handle back to **** the hammer, then gently close the bolt.
4) Push the disassembly latch on the left side of the gun (in front of the trigger guard) out of the carbine from either side.
5) Slide the receiver and barrel assembly out the front of the stock.
6) Fully retract the cocking handle until it's lined up with the open part of the ejection port, then forcefully tug it out.
7) Pull the bolt out of the barrel.
Reverse to assemble.
Design Quirks:
The most unique aspect is the ability to share magazines with Beretta handguns, saving money on purchasing if you already have some Beretta mags and allowing you to use your pistol ammo in an emergency.
Model: Ruger 10/22
One of the definitive .22 caliber rifles and one seen at ranges all over the world. The Ruger 10/22 is a cheap semi-automatic rifle firing .22LR ammunition, essentially the cheapest ammo available. The low recoil and report and high accuracy of the cartridge makes it an excellent starter rifle, especially for people with no firearms experience, and it remains accurate enough for target shooting. It was one of the first .22LR rifles to be designed as an "adult" gun rather than a child's learner gun, but it is still a good rifle for teaching younger shooters.
The 10/22 has been in constant production since 1964 and over 5 million have been produced. There are several variations on the basic rifle: the 10/22 Target model has a 20 inch bull barrel and no iron sights, the AWC Ultra II has an integral silencer and shortened barrel (making it a Title II weapon), and the SR-22 has a similar frame to AR-15 rifles but with the controls in similar locations to a 10/22.
Where to find:
With 5 million made and still in production, it's hard not to find a 10/22. The gun is extremely popular for plinking, small-game hunting, target shooting, and teaching new shooters. They can be bought for as low as $150 and as high as $250, depending on the age, modifications, and stock (synthetic is more expensive than wood).
Complexity:
Along with easy-to-use controls and a very quiet report with essentially zero recoil, the rifle itself is about as simple as possible. The barrel is screwed in, allowing for users to replace it themselves, and only a few tools (including a simple screwdriver) are needed for replacing parts. Despite the magazine having a unique rotary method of stacking and feeding cartridges rather than a spring, it is not particularly complex and is just as easy to use as a normal box.
Size and weight:
Weight 2.4 kg (5.25 lbs). Barrel length 470 mm (18.5 i.).Total length 940 mm (37 in.).
Action:
Blowback
Caliber(s):
.22LR
.17 HMR (10/17)
.22 WMR (10/22 Magnum)
Magazine:
Detachable box magazine. 5, 10, 20 (shown on the right), 25, 30, or 50 round drums.
Trigger:
Single action.
Controls:
The safety is a cross-bolt in front of the trigger; push to the right for SAFE and to the left for FIRE. The bolt handle is on the right side of the receiver. The magazine release is in front of the trigger. The bolt lock is in the front of the trigger guard; push the bottom portion while the bolt is back to lock it and press the top part to unlock it.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety.
3) Take a loaded magazine and push it into the magazine well in front of the trigger guard until it clicks. 5 and 10 round magazines should fit flush with the stock.
4) Pull the bolt handle back and release it to chamber a round.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Take a loaded magazine and push it into the magazine well until it clicks into place.
To prepare to fire, pull the cocking handle back and release.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety.
3) Push the magazine release forward and remove the magazine.
4) Pull the bolt handle back to eject any round in the chamber and check for any extra ammunition.
5) Release the bolt handle.
6) Deactivate the safety.
7) Pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety.
3) Unload the rifle as described in the unloading procedures.
4) Pull the bolt handle back and let it snap forward to **** the hammer.
5) If there is a barrel band, loosen and remove it.
6) Loosen (don't remove) the takedown screw.
7) Push the safety so it is in the middle, with an equal amount of the button showing on either side.
8) Swing the barrel/receiver assembly up and out of the stock.
9) Drift out the two receiver pins and remove the trigger assembly.
Reverse to assemble.
Design Quirks:
The unique rotary magazine of the 5 and 10 round mags allow it to fit flush in the stock. The 25 and 30 round magazines are larger and curved, however.
The Rules - What you should know before reading these pages and handling weapons.
Firearms - A basic guide to different types of firearms.
Accessories - The add-ons that may just give you an edge in that gunfight.
Ammunition - An overview of types of ammo and reloading.
Weapons reviews - A user-created database of reviews for various zombie-slaying implements.
Handguns, Rifles, Shotguns, Heavy Weaponry - A user-created guide to using and maintaining firearms you are likely to come across.
Model: This model number of this year. Tell the gun's story.
Where to find:
Who uses it and where would you find it? How are replacement parts?
Complexity:
How hard is it to maintain and use this weapon effectively?
Size and weight:
Weight in ounces and kilograms, overall length and barrel length.
Action:
Is it autoloading? Single shot?
Caliber(s):
Primary chambering as well as other variations.
Magazine:
Type of magazine and capacity.
Trigger:
Trigger type and weight if available.
Controls:
Where the safeties, action releases and other controls are on the weapon, with pictures if possible.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Unloading:
How to unload and make safe.
Field Stripping:
How to take down the weapon for cleaning, with pictures if possible.
Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun.
SU-16
Barrett M82
Uzi
TAC-50
M1 Carbine
IMI Galil
Assault Rifles and Battle Rifles
Model: AK-47 Mikhail Kalashnikov was a Soviet tank commander who fought against the Germans in World War Two. After his vehicle was destroyed, he witnessed an ambulance crew helplessly scythed down by German machine gun fire, a situation the Sergeant thought would have been averted by a mass produced, automatic rifle.
The designer himself borrowed from a number of designs, such as the M1 Garand and Remington Model 8, and the Sturmgewehr 44, used by the Germans in World War II. While the StG44 did not change the course of the war, it left it's impact on Kalashnikov as an effective concept.
The rifle he designed while recovering from his wounds would end up defeating all it's competitors. It was named the "Automatic, Kalashnikov, Model 1947," going into production in 1949 and quickly proving it's effectiveness in the Korean War. In Vietnam, it was used to great effect by the Vietnamese, fighting the Americans on every front. Late into the Cold War, the USSR adopted the AK74, roughly analogous to the competing M16, with a lighter, more accurate caliber.
The AK-47 and its many variants and copies is no doubt the most popular assault rifle in the world. Approximately 70 million AK-47s and 100 million AK variants and copies have been produced, more than all other assault rifles combined. Approximately 60 countries use it as their standard assault rifle.
Where to find:
Along with its massive use in worldwide militaries and irregular/terrorist forces, semi-automatic rifles can be purchased around the United States. Automatic firearms manufactured domestically prior to 1986 or imported prior to 1968 may be transferred between civilians in accordance with federal and state law. A number of Soviet and PRC rifles were brought into the U.S. during the mid-1960s, when returning Vietnam veterans brought them home after capture from enemy troops. Some of these were properly registered during the amnesty period under the 1968 NFA law, and as such they may be made as private purchases between the owner and buyer. Domestically-produced semi-auto rifles are completely legal.
Complexity:
The AK-47 is perhaps the simplest assault rifle in the world. All of the controls are easy to operate, and the gun itself is extremely rugged. AK rifles can be subject to many types of wear and tear and will continue to fire. However, the reputation for reliability is often over-exaggerated, and the gun should not be taken as a magical self-cleaning weapon as some take it for. Regular cleaning is still recommended and will keep the rifle in top condition.
Size and weight:
AK47/AKM: 152 ounces (4.3 kg) unloaded. Length 870mm. Barrel 415mm.
AK47S (underfolding stock): 152 ounces (4.3 kg) unloaded. Length 875mm stock extended, 645mm stock folded. Barrel 415mm.
Action:
Gas-operated, rotating bolt, select fire/semi-automatic.
Caliber(s):
7.62x39mm M43
5.45x39mm (AK74)
5.56x45mm (AK101, AK102)
7.62x51mm (AK108)
7.62x54r (Dragunov*, certain Yugo and Egyptian variants)
*The Dravugnov, while handled identically to the AK and being much the same format, actually utilizes a different operating system, distinguishing it from a true AK. Many clones, however, do utilize the AK action. In fact, it isn't uncommon for a semi-automatic RPK to be dressed up like a Dragunov as a scam.
Magazine:
Steel detachable box magazine, 20 or 30 rounds. Also compatible with the 40-round box and 75-round drum of the RPK light machine gun.
Trigger:
Single action.
Controls:
An interesting aspect of AK-type rifles, is that their controls are very suited to a left handed user, shell ejection aside. Everything is on the right side of the gun, making right handed manipulation somewhat a hassle.
Charging handle is on the right side of the receiver, it's mass being mostly on that side of the gun. This means the gun can sometimes jerk to the right during firing. Some like to operate it with their right hand, often it is manipulated by reaching over the top, or the bottom of the rifle. There is a kit called the "Lightning Bolt" which replaces the receiver and adds a left-side cocking lever for right handed users.
Fire selector on the right side of the receiver. Top for safe, middle for auto, bottom for semi automatic. In the Vietnam War, Vietcong tended to wrap the end of the selector in cloth, or lift if as they changed the position, as it could make quite a loud "clack."
Magazine release directly behind the magazine, in front of the triggerguard. Push forward to release the mag, then rock the mag out forward. Extended releases are also available that allow the release to be hit with the finger of the firing hand.
Several important components that are not controls: The button on the rear of the receiver is used to take down the rifle. It is actually the rear of the operating rod. The stock plate on full-stock models functions as a container for the cleaning kit, and a cleaning rod is stored under the barrel. Some variants additionally come with a folding bayonet.
The under-folder stock is operated by depressing a button on the left side of the receiver, where the stock arms meet the body of the rifle. The stock can be folded when a magazine is loaded. Side-folding full-stocked models have a button on the stock to fold.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Ensure the safety is not in the "safe" position, as it will block the bolt travel.
3) Place the front edge of the top of the magazine against the lip at the front of the magazine well and rotate it back into the well, making sure you can feel and hear the click. Tug it back and forth to ensure it is locked in.
4) Pull the charging handle on the right side of the gun all the way back and let it snap forward. Riding the handle forward may cause a malfunction!
5) Set the safety to safe, if necessary.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
This is impossible on an AK-type rifle.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Place the front edge of the top of the magazine against the lip at the front of the magazine well and rotate it back into the well, making sure you can feel and hear the click. Tug it back and forth to ensure it is locked in.
3) Push the safety down one position for automatic and two positions for semi-automatic.
4) To fire, pull the charging handle all the way back and let it snap forward on its own. Riding the handle forward may cause a malfunction!
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Press the magazine release in front of the trigger guard forward and pull the magazine free.
3) Pull the charging handle all the way back. Visually inspect the chamber for remaining rounds.
4) Let the charging handle snap forward.
5) Pull the trigger. The firing pin should hit an empty chamber.
6) Set the selector to "safe."
Field Stripping: (From TucsonGuns.net)
1) Remove the magazine and set it aside.
2) Move the safety lever to "fire."
3) Pull back the bolt carrier lever and eject any round from the chamber.
4) While holding the back bolt carrier lever, visually inspect the chamber to make sure it is empty.
5) Push the bolt carrier forward.
6) Press in the button on the rear of the receiver cover.
7) Lift the rear of the receiver cover, disengage the front of the receiver cover from the slot in the rear sight housing. Pull the receiver cover free and set it aside.
8) Notice that the button you pressed in step six is the rear of a rod with a long spring around it that goes into the rear of the bolt carrier. Push the rear of that rod forward until it disengages from the rear of the receiver.
9) Lift the rod up and backward to remove it and its spring from the bolt carrier. Set the rod aside.
10) Push the bolt carrier lever to the rear and lift the bolt carrier upward to remove it and the bolt from the receiver.
11) Remove the bolt from the bolt carrier by moving the bolt forward and rotating it until comes free from the bolt carrier. Set the bolt and bolt carrier aside.
12) With a punch or your hand, rotate the lever on the right side of the rear sight upward about 90 degrees.
13) Remove the gas tube and hand guard by lifting the the rear of the tube and disengaging the front of the tube from the barrel attachment it slides into. Set the gas tube aside.
Design Quirks:
The AK-47 is mostly known for reliability. The gun can face large amounts of fouling, dirt, mud, and sand without failing to fire. However, this comes at a price: the loose tolerances that make this reliability possible also decrease accuracy; though completely workable within most combat ranges, an AK isn't a rifle to accurize, and it'll never be found in long-range competition.The trigger mechanism of the rifle is prone to malfunction if enough fine, gritty material gets in it. The Israelis encountered this problem frequently when they employed the AK in combat. While unlikely, this can cause the rifle to malfunction.
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Model: ArmaLite AR-15The AR-15 is the civilian version of the M16 series of assault rifles. It is a semi-automatic rifle firing primarily 5.56mm NATO or .223 Remington rounds (a rifle chambered for .223 should NOT be loaded with 5.56mm due to the increased pressure of the more powerful round). While AR-15 originally referred to the assault rifles marketed to the United States military (among other countries around the world), the trademark now refers to the semi-automatic sporting versions. It is used around the world for sport shooting and police work due to their accuracy and modularity. ArmaLite sold the rights to the AR-15 and AR-10 in 1959.
The AR-15 is instantly recognizable for the synthetic stock, pistol grip, and furniture. The sights are fully adjustable and it can take a wide range of modular accessories, including various scopes and reflex sights. AR-15s can be converted to full-auto, however this is difficult for someone with little knowledge of firearms and highly illegal.
Where to find:
The AR-15 is somewhat costly for a target rifle at close to $1000 for most basic models, but it is still extraordinarily common. Police forces across the United States are beginning to replace their shotguns with AR-15 rifles to more easily combat criminals with body armor.
Complexity:
AR-15s are not particularly hard to care for, though they have a risk of jamming if not properly cleaned. AR-15s are extremely easy to disassemble and the upper and lower receivers can be easily swapped for extra customization options, including a large number of different calibers.
Size and weight:
Weight 2.27-3.9 kg (5.5-8.5 lbs) Barrel length 368-508 mm (14.5-20 in.)
Action:
Semi-automatic, direct impingement/rotating bolt
Caliber(s):
.223 Remington
5.56x45mm
.45 ACP
5.7x28mm
6.5mm Grendel
6.5 Creedmoor
6.8mm Rem SPC
7.62x39 Russian.
9x19mm Parabellum
.204 Ruger
.308 Win
.50 Beowulf
.450 Bushmaster
.338 Federal
7.65x51
.243 Win
.260 Rem
5.45x39
Magazine:
Detachable STANAG box magazines of 10, 20, or 30 rounds or 100 round drums.
Trigger:
Single action
Controls:
The safety/fire selector is a dial on the left with markings indicating SAFE and SEMI on standard guns; AR-15s converted to full auto may have AUTO listed if the proper lower receiver is attached. The charging handle is located on the rear of the receiver just in front of the stock, and is fully ambidextrous. The magazine release is on the right side of the gun above the front of the trigger guard and can be pressed with the right index finger. The forward assist is a button on the top right of the receiver, and is used to manually close the bolt in case of an extremely dirty gun failing to close the bolt all the way. The bolt release is on the left side of the gun above the front of the trigger guard and allows the bolt to snap shut without needing to pull the charging handle.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Rotate the fire selector until the gun is on SAFE.
3) Take a magazine and push it up into the magazine well until it locks into place. Pull down on it slightly to ensure that it is securely in.
4) Pull the charging handle all the way back and let it snap forward.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
This cannot be done, as there is no external hammer.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Take a magazine and push it up into the magazine well until it locks into place. Pull down on it slightly to ensure that it is securely in.
3) To fire, pull the charging handle all the way back and let it snap forward.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Press the magazine release above the trigger guard and pull the magazine free.
3) Pull the charging handle all the way back. Visually inspect the chamber for remaining rounds.
4) Let the charging handle snap forward.
5) Pull the trigger. The firing pin should hit an empty chamber.
6) Set the selector to "safe."
Field Stripping:
1) Set the fire selector to SAFE.
2) Remove the magazine and set it aside.
3) Pull the bolt back to clear the chamber and press the bolt release to close the bolt.
4) Using a small, pointed object (including a .223 bullet), push the rear take-down pin on the right through to the left side of the gun. The pin will not fall out.
5) Pivot the upper receiver up and pull on the charging handle to begin pulling the bolt carrier out. When the charging handle stops moving, continue pulling the bolt carrier out of the gun.
6) When the bolt carrier is out, the charging handle will drop out of its groove in the receiver and can be removed.
Reverse to reassemble.
Design Quirks:
The upper and lower receivers of an AR-15 are extremely easy to swap out, as they are only held together by two pins. While the lower receiver is classified and regulated as a firearm, the upper receiver is classified as a part and can be bought with just as much simplicity as a new barrel or gas tube. It is also very simple to swap upper receivers to change the caliber, barrel length or even the gas system of the rifle.
Model: FN FAL The FAL is a battle rifle designed by FN of Belgium as the standard issue rifle of NATO, though the United States chose the M14 after a controversial trial. Unlike a true assault rifle, the FAL is a battle rifle, firing a full-power rifle round rather than an intermediate cartridge. This gives it a heavy recoil and makes automatic fire difficult to keep on target.
The first prototype, chambered in the 7.92x33mm Kurz round of the StG44, was produced in 1947. The US military convinced FN to switch to a new .30 Light Rifle cartridge, later standardized as 7.62x51mm NATO. The FAL was first mass produced in 1953 and was nicknamed the "right arm of the free world" for its use in NATO as the counterpart to the AK47 and AKM.
The StG 58, the former service rifle of Austria, features a folding bipod, plastic stock, and combination flash hider/grenade launcher. The L1A1 SLR is a semi-automatic inch-pattern copy used as the service rifle of the United Kingdom until the introduction of the SA80 weapon family.
Where to find:
The FAL has been used in over 90 countries and is legal as a commercial sporting rifle in the United States. All automatic rifles imported to the United States in the late 80s and 90s had the upper receiver destroyed to demilitarize them. While these rifles were later sold as parts kits for hobbyists to build semi-automatic FALs, fully automatic ones are very difficult to find. There are however, several companies in the United States that make modern versions of the FAL pattern rifle in almost any configuration.
Complexity:
As a service rifle meant to be used by all NATO countries, the rifle is very simple and easy to maintain and produce. The recoil is lighter than most other battle rifles of the same caliber, but still rather intense. The rifle is very reliable and has a smooth, well-balanced action.
Size and weight:
Weight 3.79 - 5.95 kg (8.6 - 13.1 lbs). Barrel length 436 - 533 mm (17.2 - 21 in.). Total length 998 - 1125 mm (39.3 - 44.3 in.)
Action:
Gas operated, tilting breechblock, select fire/semi-automatic
Caliber(s):
7.62x51mm NATO
.308 Winchester
Magazine:
Detachable box magazine, 20 or 30 rounds.
Trigger:
Single action
Controls:
The safety is on the left side of the trigger group. Push it down to E for fire and up to S for safe. The charging handle is on the left side of the receiver. The magazine release is in front of the trigger guard, just behind the magazine well. The gas regulator is a knurled knob just behind the front sight, and can increase the flow of gas to prevent jamming while fighting in a dirty or dusty environment.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point the gun in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Set the fire selector to S for safe.
3) Take a magazine and insert it into the magazine well until it snaps into place. Tug it slightly to check that it is seated properly.
4) Pull the charging handle all the way to the rear and let it snap forward.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
This cannot be done, as there is no external hammer.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point the gun in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Take a magazine and insert it into the magazine well until it snaps into place. Tug it slightly to check that it is seated properly.
3) To make ready to fire, pull the charging handle back and let it snap forward.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Turn the safety on.
3) Press the magazine release in front of the trigger guard forward and pull the magazine free.
4) Pull the charging handle all the way back. Visually inspect the chamber for remaining rounds.
5) Let the charging handle snap forward.
6) Pull the trigger. The firing pin should hit an empty chamber.
7) Set the selector to safe.
Field Stripping:
1) Clear the weapon of any ammunition.
2) Set the selector to safe.
3) Ensure that the bolt is forward and pull the frame-locking lever on the rear-left side of the receiver back.
4) Pivot the upper receiver down and pull the bolt carrier slide rod out of the gun.
5) Pull the bolt carrier and bolt out.
6) Slide the receiver cover off the gun.
7) Depress the rear of the firing pin and pivot the bolt out of the bolt carrier.
8) Keep pressure on the rear of the firing pin and, using a pointed object (such as a rifle round), push the non-flared side of the firing pin retaining pin through the bolt and remove it.
9) Remove the firing pin and allow the firing pin spring to fall out of the bolt body.
10). Press in the plunger on the gas plug and rotate the gas plug clockwise to remove it. The gas piston is spring loaded, so have a hand in place to catch it.
11) Remove the gas piston spring from the gas piston.
Reverse steps for assembly.
Design Quirks: The FAL fires a big bore round, as such it recoils more heavily then rifles that fire smaller rounds.
Model: M14 The M14 is a battle rifle derived from the M1 Garand. From 1957 to 1970, it was the standard issue service rifle of the United States infantry until its replacement by the M16. Despite its replacement, it is still in use in modern times as a marksman's rifle, specifically the M21 and M25 sniper rifles.
About 1.5 million M14s have been made since its production in 1959, even though production officially stopped in 1964. It still remains in limited front line service and several other countries continue to make use of it, including Haiti and Lithuania.
The M14A1 is an automatic version with a fire selector, hinged buttplate, and a bipod to act as a squad automatic weapon. The M14M is a semi-automatic version used for the Civilian Marksmanship Program, while the M14NM is an M14M made to National Match accuracy standards, and is used with a scope by the U.S. military as the M14 SMUD (Stand-off Munition Disruption) for destroying unexploded ordinance. The Mk 14 Mod 0 EBR is a heavily modified version with a telescoping stock, pistol grip, Harris bipod, new front sight, four Picatinny rails around the barrel, and a muzzle brake, and it is used by the Navy SEALS.
The M1A is a civilian version chambered in .308 Winchester with no accessories, with the Loaded package adding a bipod, railed handguard, and scope. The SOCOM series and Scout Squad are short-barreled M14s, and the M21 Tactical is a civilian version of the M21 Designated Marksman Rifle.
Where to find:
The M14 is not only still in use with the United States as both a sniper rifle and a battle rifle, it is a popular civilian weapon. The M1A is the most common civilian variant, costing about $1700. The rifle isn't cheap, but impressive enough to warrant consideration.
Complexity:
The M14 is a reliable, albeit somewhat heavy, battle rifle. It was designed to be simple and rugged and can operate effectively in dirty, humid jungles.
Size and weight:
Weight 5.2 kg (11.5 lbs). Barrel length 559 mm (22 in.). Total length 1181 mm (46.5 in.).
Action:
Gas-operated, rotating bolt
Caliber(s):
7.62x51mm NATO
.308 Winchester
Magazine:
Detachable box magazine. 5, 10, 15, 20, and 30 rounds.
Trigger:
Single-action
Controls:
The safety is on the front of the trigger guard; push out of the trigger guard for FIRE, push into the trigger guard for SAFE. The operating rod handle is on the right side of the receiver. The magazine release is a lever behind the magazine. The bolt lock is on the left side of the receiver.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Push the safety into the trigger guard to activate it.
3) Take a loaded magazine and insert the front into the magazine well, then rock it back into place.
4) Pull the operating rod handle back and let it snap forward.
To fire, push the safety outward.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Not possible.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Take a loaded magazine and insert the front into the magazine well, then rock it back into place.
To fire, pull the operating rod handle back and let it snap forward.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety.
3) Push the magazine release forward and rock the magazine down and forward to remove it.
4) Pull the operating rod handle back and press the bolt lock to lock it open.
5) Check the chamber for any ammunition.
6) Pull the operating rod handle back slightly and let it snap forward.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Clear the weapon as described in the unloading procedures.
3) Flip the gun upside-down and pull the trigger guard up until the trigger housing mechanism is released. Remove it.
4) Place the stock on a flat surface (still upside-down) and pull the rear sight/receiver down and off.
5) Pull the operating rod spring and spring guide toward the muzzle. Slide the connector lock toward the right side of the receiver.
6) Allow the operating rod spring to slowly expand, then remove it and the spring guide.
7) Pull the operating rod handle back until the guide lug is lined up with the disassembly notch and pull it up, back, and off the receiver.
8) Slide the bolt roller forward and lift it up and out to the right-front with a slight counterclockwise rotation.
Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun. Just like the FAL, the M14 fires a big bore round. As such it will have more muzzle climb and recoil then rifle firing a smaller round.
Rifles
Model: Remington 700The Remington 700 is a popular series of bolt-action rifles that have been produced since 1962. There's a very large number of variants, and the gun is popular with police forces worldwide. The Malaysian and Indonesian militaries use them, and the U.S. Marine Corps. uses them as the M40 and the U.S. Army as the M24 Sniper Weapon System. It is in major use with civilians for hunting and target shooting.
The Remington 700P is the standard police version, with a 26'' heavy barrel. The Remington 700P Light Tactical Rifle (LTR) has a 26'' fluted barrel. Both optionally come with a Tactical Weapons System (TWS) package, including a telescopic sight, bipod, and carrying case. With match-quality ammo and a good scope, both are capable of extremely high accuracy.
The M24 and M40 both have a custom-fitted heavy contour barrel. The M24 has a long action bolt-face, while the M40 has a short action bolt-face.
Where to find:
Along with being in very heavy use with police forces (Almost every police force in the United States has access to at least one) and in modified forms with the U.S. military, the 700 is very popular as a hunting and target rifle. One could say that among hunting rifles, it's about as popular as an M1911 variant is among handgun shooters. The gun is fairly affordable at around $600-700 for the base model, and scopes are in good supply. Replacement parts are easy to order from Remington.
Complexity:
The bolt-action mechanism is very simple and easy to use, and the internals are made of the highest quality steel. However, due to the bolt's multiple component brazed together construction, the bolt handle can snap off under extreme cold, from very rough use, or from impacts. Therefore, it'd recommended that the bolt be worked as smoothly and gently as possible.
Size and weight:
Weight 84 ounces (3.06 kg) unloaded. Length 1054mm. Barrel: 558-660mm, depending on model.
Action:
Single shot bolt-action, Mauser bolt.
Caliber(s):
.17 Rem
.17 Rem Fireball
.204 Ruger
.220 Swift
.223 Remington
.22-250 Rem
.243 Win
.25-06 Rem
.264 Win Mag
.270 Winchester
.270 WSM
.280 Remington
7mm-08 Rem
7mm Rem Mag
7mm RUM
.30-06 22"
.308 Win
.300 WSM
.300 Win Mag
.300 RUM
.338 RUM
.338 Win Mag
.338 Lapua Mag
.35 Whelen
.375 H&H
.375 RUM
.458 WM
Magazine:
Internal magazine or detachable steel box magazine. 3-6 rounds, depending on caliber.
Trigger:
Trigger pull can be adjusted by adjusting the screws in the trigger. Pull can be adjusted greatly (1.5 to 2.5 pounds is preferred). However, some Remington 700s, when the trigger creep is adjusted out of the trigger, can make the sear engagement too low to hold the firing pin back. As such, taking the gun off safe may have a chance of causing it to go off. Adjust the trigger yourself at your own risk!
Controls:
Bolt runs into the chamber and barrel, which make up the receiver of the rifle. The wood or polymer that the receiver is bedded in is called the furniture, or the stock.
Bolt handle hangs down on the right side for standard models. To work the bolt, rotate the handle upwards until it stops, then firmly draw to the rear. Reverse the action to close the bolt. Gun will not fire unless the bolt handle is completely down. The safety sits on the back of the bolt. Push forward to disengage, pull back to engage.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pull the safety back to engage it.
3) Pull the bolt handle back to expose the chamber.
4) Take a cartridge and push it nose-forward down into the magazine through the top of the gun.
5) Repeat until the magazine is full.
6) Push the bolt handle forward and turn it down to lock it.
6) To load a full magazine with one in the chamber, load a single cartridge into the chamber, and hold down the loaded rounds with your thumb as you push the bolt forward.
With a detachable box magazine
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pull the safety back to engage it.
3) Pull the bolt handle back to expose the chamber.
4) Take the magazine and press both latches on the bottom of the magazine inward.
5) Push the magazine into the magazine well in front of trigger guard until the latches snap into place.
6) Load one cartridge into the chamber from the top of the gun. Push all of the cartridges down with your thumb.
7) Push the bolt handle forward and turn it down to lock it.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
There is no way to do this with a bolt-action rifle.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Insert the magazine into the bottom of the weapon. This is not possible on an internal magazine model.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges! .
2) Pull back the bolt handle back to remove the cartridge from the chamber. Do not attempt to catch the cartridge; retrieve all ammo after the weapon is completely unloaded.
3) If the gun has a floor plate: Push the floor plate latch in front of the trigger guard to release the floor plate. Remove the cartridges and push the magazine follower in, then close the floor plate.
3) If the gun does not have a floor plate: Push the bolt slowly forward and slowly pull it back to remove the next cartridge from the magazine. Do not push too far forward, or it may load the chamber. Pull the bolt handle back to release the cartridge. Repeat until the magazine is empty.
3) If the gun has a magazine: Depress both latches on the magazine and pull it out of the gun.
Field Stripping:
1) Unload the gun and place it on safe.
2) Pull the bolt handle all the way back. Push the bolt stop release in the trigger guard and slide the bolt rearwards out of the rifle.
3) Turn the rifle upside-down and remove the screws in the stock. One is in the stock and two are in the bottom of the trigger guard.
4) Lift the stock away from the receiver and trigger assembly.
5) Remove the magazine spring and follower. (If a detachable baseplate or removable magazine design, do this as the first step.)
6) Put the notch on the firing pin in the bolt over a metal edge. Put a coin in the slot near the back edge of the firing pin head.
7) Hold the bolt assembly and turn the bolt plug counter-clockwise until the firing pin assembly can be removed from the bolt assembly.
Reverse to assemble.
Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun.
Model: Ruger Mini-14 The Ruger Mini-14 is a smaller civilian version of the M14 battle rifle. It was first introduced in 1974 and proved popular with small game hunters, ranchers and farmers, police, security guards, and target shooters. The rifle is primarily chambered in .223 Remington, and since 2005 has been marketed under the name "Ranch Rifle."
While the target versions of the Mini-14 can only fire .223 Remington rounds, non-target versions can fire both .223 and the military equivalent, 5.56x45mm NATO. The Mini Thirty fires the 7.62x39mm round of most AK pattern rifles and the Mini-6.8 fires 6.8mm Remington SPC. The AC-556 is a select fire version that can fire in semi-automatic, 3-round bursts, or full auto and is marketed to the police and military. The Mini-14GB is marketed to the police and military as a semi-automatic carbine with the options of a short barrel, bayonet lug, flash hider, and folding stock.
Where to find:
The Mini-14 is very popular as an inexpensive target, small game hunting, and ranch defense rifle in the United States. Prices range from $600-700, cheaper than a good-quality AR-15. A number of police agencies, including the NYPD Organize Crime Control Bureau, use Mini-14s, while the Bermuda Regiment of the British Army use AC-556 rifles with Choate stocks. The AC-556 is rather expensive, especially with the Class 3 license needed to purchase an automatic weapon.
Complexity:
The Mini-14 is designed as a rugged, accurate rifle that can be taken out into the woods and fields and still function well. While the initial rifles had a complex, exposed bolt hold open mechanism with no manual button, they have since been retooled for a new mechanism. The new Ranch Rifles are manufactured to tighter tolerances and have greater accuracy and a modified gas system for reduced barrel vibration. The rifle is easy to disassemble and maintain. As a closed-bolt rifle, however, it is at risk of overheating from extended fire.
Size and weight:
Weight 2.9 kg (6.4 lbs). Barrel length 330 - 470 mm (13 - 8.5 in.). Total length 946 mm (37.25 in.)
Action:
Semi-automatic/select fire, gas-operated, rotating bolt
Caliber(s):
.223 Remington
5.56x45mm NATO
7.62x39mm
6.8mm Remington SPC
.222 Remington
Magazine:
Detachable box magazine of 5, 10, 20, or 30 rounds. Numerous aftermarket magazines and drums.
Trigger:
Single action
Controls:
The safety is located on the front of the trigger guard and is pushed into the trigger guard to turn it on. It can be taken off by pushing it forward and out of the trigger guard with your trigger finger. The slide handle is on the right side of the receiver. The magazine latch is in front of the trigger guard. The bolt lock plunger is on the top-left of the receiver and, when the bolt is pulled all the way back, is pressed to lock the bolt back.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pull the slide handle back and press the bolt lock plunger to lock the bolt back, the push the slide handle forward.
3) Engage the safety by pushing it back into the trigger guard.
4) Take a loaded magazine and insert the top-front into the magazine well, then pivot it back into the magazine well until it lock in place.
5) Draw the slide handle back and let it snap forward.
To fire, push the safety forward out of the trigger guard.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done as there is no external hammer.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Take a loaded magazine and insert the top-front into the magazine well, then pivot it back into the magazine well until it lock in place.
To fire, pull the slide handle back and let it snap forward to load the gun.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Engage the safety.
3) Push the magazine latch forward to release the rear of the magazine. Pivot it down and pull it free from the magazine well. The magazine can drop free under gravity, but this risks damaging it.
4) Pull the slide handle all the way back and visually inspect the chamber. Insert a finger into the chamber and probe for brass and ammunition.
5) Let the slide handle snap forward and disengage the safety. Pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Engage the safety.
3) Remove the loaded magazine.
4) Pull the slide handle all the way back and inspect the chamber. Release the slide handle.
5) Insert a pointed tool into the hole in the rear of the trigger guard and lever it up. Invert the rifle and carefully pull out the trigger housing assembly.
6) Swing the rear of the barrel/receiver assembly slightly away from the action. Pull the stock out of engagement with the gas block.
7) Remove the guide rod and recoil springs.
8) Pull the slide handle to the rear and line it up with the disassembly notch to pull it off.
9) Pull the bolt forward and pivot it up and out of the receiver.
Reverse to assemble.
Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun.
Model: M1 Garand The M1 Garand is an extraordinarily famous rifle as it was the first semi-automatic rifle to be issued as the general service rifle of a country's armed forces. The Garand, known to the military as United States Rifle, Caliber .30, M1, was designed by John Garand in 1932 and was selected as the general service rifle of the United States infantry in 1936. Even after being replaced by the M14, the Garand remained in use in large numbers until 1963 and in lesser use until 1966.
The Garand is a gas-operated, rotating bolt rifle, a similar action to the AK-47. The Garand was practically the one force effectively stopping Japanese banzai charges in World War II due to the large bullet and semi-automatic capability, and was known to pass through three Japanese soldiers with one shot. The rifle has since been modernized by some manufacturers to load .308 Winchester.
Where to find:
The Garand is very popular among military enthusiasts and firearms collectors, fetching close to $1000 for some pristine models. However, they can be found for lower prices, generally $500-700. The Civilian Marksmanship Program, in particular, sells surplus rifles, including Garands, to CMP members. It is a fairly popular hunting and target shooting rifle.
Complexity:
The Garand has a simple gas system which is easy to maintain. It was designed as a soldier's weapon, so it is quite resistant to jamming and can be disassembled without tools. However, the en bloc clip prevents the rifle from being topped up in between firefights without practice, and many inexperienced operators have gotten "M1 Thumb" or "Garand Thumb" from the bolt snapping shut on their thumb after pushing a clip into the rifle.
Size and weight:
Weight 4.31 - 5.3 kg (9.5 - 11.6 lbs). Barrel length 609.6 mm (24 in.). Total length 1104.9 mm (43.5 in.).
Action:
Semi-automatic, gas-operated, rotating bolt
Caliber(s):
.30-06
.308 Winchester
7.62x51mm NATO
Magazine:
8-round internal magazine, loaded with en bloc clip
Trigger:
Single action
Controls:
The safety is located on the front of the trigger guard; push outside of the trigger guard for fire, push into the trigger guard for fire. The operating rod handle is on the right side of the receiver. The clip latch is located on the left side of the receiver and can be used to eject a partially-empty clip.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Push the safety into the trigger guard to activate it.
3) Pull the operating rod handle all the way back to lock the bolt open.
4) While holding the operating rod handle back, take an en bloc clip (it has no top or bottom; if the rounds are pointing forward, it can be loaded) and push it all the way down into the magazine. Be careful, as the bolt with snap shut as soon as downward pressure is removed from the clip.
5) Remove your thumb from the receiver and let the operating rod handle spring forward under its own pressure. Push the handle with the heel of your palm to ensure that it is closed.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done, as there is no external hammer.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
This can only be done with a partially-empty clip.
1) Point the gun in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pull the operating rod handle to the rear to remove the cartridge from the chamber and hold the handle to the rear.
3) Depress the top cartridge and slowly allow the bolt to move forward over the top of the cartridge about an inch.
4) Remove your thumb from the cartridge.
5) Allow the bolt to move forward into the empty chamber.
To prepare for firing, pull the operating rod handle back enough to let the clip move up, then close the bolt and strike the operating rod handle with the heel of your palm to make sure it closes.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pull the operating rod handle all the way to the rear to lock the bolt back and eject the cartridge in the chamber.
3) Place your left hand over the receiver and use your thumb to press the clip latch, ejecting the clip into your hand.
4) Push the operating rod slightly to the rear and press the magazine follower down with your thumb.
5) Slowly allow the bolt to move forward, remove your thumb, and let it continue until it closes.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Invert the rifle and pull the rear of the trigger guard up until the trigger housing group is out of the rifle.
3) Pull the rear sights and receiver down to separate the barrel and receiver from the stock.
4) Grasp the follower rod of the receiver and pull it towards the muzzle. Lift it slightly (it is under spring pressure) and remove the operating rod spring and follower rod.
5) Remove the follower rod pin.
6) Lift the operating rod catch assembly, bullet guide, and follower arm away from the receiver.
7) Lift the follower assembly out of the receiver.
8) Pull the operating rod to the rear until it is aligned with the rear of the disassembly notch. Using an upward and
outward movement disengage the operating rod from the receiver. Remove the operating rod by pulling to the rear and then downward.
9) Grasp the right lug of the bolt and, while sliding it forward, lift the bolt upward and outward to the right front with a slight counterclockwise rotation.
Reverse to assemble.
rotating motion
Design Quirks:
The M1 Garand's most unpopular feature is arguably the clip ejection system; upon firing the last round, the empty clip is ejected with a loud ping that easily echoes off a hard surface, potentially alerting enemies that your rifle is empty. Because of the way the rifle is loaded and unloaded, scoping the rifle takes a special mount.
Model: Mosin-Nagant The Mosin-Nagant is currently THE longest-serving military rifle. It was first produced in 1891 Artillery Colonel Sergei Ivanovich Mosin, who designed the bolt and receiver, and Emile Nagant of Belgium, who designed the magazine. It was the first rifle to use the 7.62x54mmR cartridge used in the modern Dragunov sniper rifle and PKM machine gun, and remained in front line use in Europe until the 1960s as a sniper rifle. Even today, the rifle is still used in conflicts around the world, especially in Africa and the Middle East, due to its tough build and cheap price.
The Mosin-Nagant is found mainly in several forms: the 91/30 is the most prolific rifle, and has the longest barrel and was commonly used as a sniper rifle. The M38 is a carbine with a shortened barrel and stock, and the M44 is essentially the same as the M38 but with a cruciform bayonet permanently attached to the side. The M38 is the only one of these three main models that doesn't come with a bayonet. In Finland, a modernized version of the rifle, the Tkiv 85, is used as a sniper rifle and these rifles often have receivers over a century old.
Where to find:
Not only is the Mosin still seeing use in wars around the world as a cheap, tough, and powerful rifle, it's also a very popular target and hunting rifle in North America; most American game up to small grizzlies can be downed by the large bullet. Millions of these rifles were produced after World War II and packed in cosmoline to prepare for a big war that never came, and when World War III never surfaced they were bought up and shipped off to the United States. As a military surplus rifle, they can be found for $150 for a very good-quality model and as low as $60-90 for a rougher build.
Complexity:
The Mosin-Nagant was built to last; rifles that saw use in Berlin in 1945 are still shooting just the same in 2010. They're extremely rugged and can stand up to a lot of grime and abuse and still shoot. Some rifles have receivers over 100 years old! Unfortunately, quite a few wartime rifles were built in a rush to supply new conscripts and some corners were cut, making these rifles rougher and less accurate at long range. Moreover, the rifles are heavy and long and have a lot of recoil, making them unsuitable for smaller or weaker shooters.
Size and weight:
91/30: Weight 4 kg (8.8 lbs). Barrel length 730 mm (28.7 in.). Total length 1287 mm (50.7 in.).
M38: Weight 3.4 kg (7.5 lbs). Barrel length 514mm (20.2 in.). Total length 1013 mm (39.9 in.).
M44: Weight 4.1 kg (9 lbs). Barrel length 514mm (20.2 in.). Total length 1013 mm (39.9 in.).
Action:
Bolt-action
Caliber(s):
7.62x54mmR
7.62x53mmR (Finnish variants only)
Magazine:
Non-detachable box magazine. 5 rounds.
Trigger:
Single action.
Controls:
The safety is a knob on the back of the bolt; to set the rifle to SAFE, pull the knob back, turn it to the left, and let it slide forward. To set it to FIRE, pull it back, turn it to the right, and slide it forward. The magazine open catch is on the bottom of the magazine. Other than that, there are no controls beyond the bolt and trigger.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Open the bolt by turning the bolt handle up and to the left and pulling back.
3) Take a cartridge and push it nose-forward down into the magazine through the top of the gun.
4) Repeat until the magazine is full.
4) With a stripper clip: Place the bottom of the clip into the clip guide at the back of the bolt and push the rounds down with your thumb into the magazine. Remove the clip.
5) Push the bolt handle forward and turn it down to lock it.
6) To load a full magazine with one in the chamber, load a single cartridge into the chamber, and hold down the loaded rounds with your thumb as you push the bolt forward.
7) Pull the safety knob back, turn it to the left, and slide it forward.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Open the bolt and pull it to the rear of the receiver.
3) Turn the gun upside-down and push the magazine open catch toward the trigger guard.
4) Open the bottom of the magazine by tilting it forward on its hinge toward the muzzle.
5) Turn the gun over and let the rounds spill out of the gun.
6) Close the bolt.
7) Pull the trigger.
8) Activate the safety by pulling it back, turning it to the left, and sliding it forward.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Clear the gun as described in the unloading procedures. Deactivate the safety.
3) Unscrew the cleaning rod under the barrel counterclockwise.
4) Press the barrel band retaining springs and slide the barrel bands forward, past the end of the stock. They cannot go past the front sight.
5) Remove the handguard.
6) Hold the trigger while pulling the bolt straight to the rear.
7) Dec*ck the bolt by turning the c*cking knob 90 degrees counterclockwise and pull the bolt head and connector bar forward.
8) Rotate the bolt head 90 degrees clockwise and pull it off the connector bar. Using the large notch on the bolt tool or the connector bar as a wrench, grasp the firing pin between your fingers and unscrew it counterclockwise. Be careful to grasp it firmly as the spring is under pressure.
9) Remove the magazine tang screw in front of the magazine.
10) Remove the receiver tang screw at the back of the receiver.
11) Remove the magazine assembly and receiver assembly from the stock.
12) Press the floorplate latch and pull the floorplate away from the magazine. Compress the follower assembly and pull it away from the magazine.
Reverse to reassemble.
Design Quirks:
A very large amount of rifles shipped to the United States after the Cold War ended never had the cosmoline cleaned out. This waxy substance used to preserve the rifles for decades is quite difficult to clear from the gun, and is almost impossible to 100% remove without very detailed cleaning.
Model: Winchester 1894 The quintessential "Cowboy gun", the Winchester 1894 is a modernized version of the 1873, the "Gun That Won The West". The 1894 is part of a series of recognizable lever-action rifles, chambered in a variety of rounds. Over 7.5 million have been produced, making it the best-selling high-powered hunting rifle in the United States.
As the name suggests, the Model 1894 was first produced in 1894 as the first hunting rifle chambered for smokeless powder cartridges. Since then, it has been the first sporting rifle to sell over 7 million units; Calvin Coolidge received the millionth, Harry Truman received the millionth and a half, and Dwight Eisenhower received the two millionth. With over a century of history, the rifle is still common as a hunting and sport shooting rifle across the U.S.
Where to find:
As stated above, the Winchester Model 1894 has sold well over 7 million units; it's available in a variety of calibers and prices, ranging from $120 to $2000 and higher at gun stores around the U.S.
Complexity:
As a hunting rifle, it's rugged and easy to maintain in the field, despite the rather complex action. They accept a variety of ammunition qualities. There are mixed reports on the reliability with pistol calibers, as the action was designed around the longer .30-30 Winchester cartridge, though the rifle in general has received favorable reviews.
Size and weight:
Weight 3.1 kg (6.8 lbs). Barrel length 508 mm (20 in.). Total length 960 mm (37.8 in.).
Action:
Lever-action
Caliber(s):
.30-30 Winchester
.38 Special
.38-55
.357 Magnum
.44 Magnum
.44 Special
.45 Long Colt
.44-40 Winchester
.450 Marlin
Magazine:
Tubular magazine, 6 or 7 rounds.
Trigger:
Single action.
Controls:
The safety is on top of the rifle; push forward for OFF, back for ON.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Push the safety back into the ON position.
3) Pull the lever down and load a cartridge directly into the chamber. Pull the lever back up to load the chamber.
4) Push the remaining cartridges into the loading port nose-first until the magazine is loaded.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Push the safety back into the ON position.
3) Pull the lever down and load a cartridge directly into the chamber. Pull the lever back up to load the chamber.
4) Push the remaining cartridges into the loading port nose-first until the magazine is loaded.
5) Pull the trigger, allowing the hammer to drop into the rebound position.
6) Take the safety off.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Push the cartridges into the loading port nose-first until the magazine is loaded.
To prepare to fire, rotate the lever down, then back up to load the chamber.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Push the safety back into the ON position.
3) Work the lever until all of the cartridges have been ejected.
4) When no more cartridges eject, open the chamber and visually check for any remaining rounds.
5) Raise the lever.
6) Pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
No disassembly is required for regular maintenence; should complex disassembly be required (such as after being submerged in water), a competent gunsmith should be given the job.
Design Quirks:
The top-ejecting design makes it difficult to mount a scope on older rifles, requiring either side mounts or barrel mounts. Starting in the 1980s, the shells were ejected at an angle, allowing for normal scope mounts.
Pointed or conical bullets with non-plastic tips (designed specifically for tubular magazines) should NOT be used in the rifle; there is a risk of the pointed nose of the bullet detonating the primer on the bullet ahead of it and taking your hand off.
Model: SKS This self-loading rifle was the precursor to the AK-47 in the Russian military, firing the same round as the assault rifle. The Simonov SKS was introduced into service in 1949, supplementing the AK-47 as it was slowly introduced into the entire military. Despite its short run as a front line weapon, the SKS was still an excellent semi-automatic rifle for the time.
Much like the Mosin-Nagant, large amounts of the SKS can be found as surplus rifles in the United States. Many modifications can be had, including synthetic stocks, pistol grips, extended magazines, and rail systems for mounting optics and accessories.
Where to find:
The SKS was imported into the United States in large amounts, making it a fairly common cheap starter rifle at $200-300. However, the price is unlikely to drop as there is a fixed amount of weapons available to import; on the other hand, AR-15s and AKs are still being produced and put into the market, allowing the price to drop on them.
Complexity:
As with most Soviet weapons, the SKS is designed to be very reliable and rugged in any terrain. One should take care to clean any cosmoline off the bolt and firing pin, as a gunked-up firing pin can cause it to stick forward and cause "slamfire", an uncontrollable full-auto mag dump.
Size and weight:
Weight 3.85 kg (8.5 lbs). Barrel length 521 or 558.8 mm (20.5 or 22 in.). Total length 1021 or 1117 mm (40.2 or 44 in.)
Action:
Gas-operated tilting bolt
Caliber(s):
7.62x39mm
Magazine:
10 round internal box magazine. 30 round detachable magazines available.
Trigger:
Single-action.
Controls:
The safety is a lever on the right-rear of the trigger guard; pivot it up for SAFE and down for FIRE. The charging lever is on the right side of the gun. The magazine release is in front of the trigger guard and only used for unloading the rifle.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pivot the safety up into the ON position.
3) Pull the charging handle back until the action locks open.
4) Either load the magazine with single rounds or place a stripper clip in the clip guide in the rear of the receiver, push the rounds into the magazine, and remove the clip.
5) Pull the charging handle back slightly and let it snap forward.
To fire, pivot the safety down.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pull the charging handle back until the action locks open.
3) Either load the magazine with single rounds or place a stripper clip in the clip guide in the rear of the receiver, push the rounds into the magazine, and remove the clip.
To fire, pull the charging handle back and let it snap forward.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pivot the safety up into the ON position.
3) Push the magazine release forward and pivot the magazine down, letting the rounds fall out.
4) Pull the charging handle back to eject the round in the chamber. Examine the chamber for any ammunition.
5) Release the charging handle.
6) Deactivate the safety.
7) Pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Unload the gun as described above.
3) Press the rear of the receiver cover forward with your thumb. Rotate with the right hand the receiver cover retaining pin arm upward to its vertical position and pull the pin out to the right as far as possible.
4) Allow the receiver cover to move back by about 1/2 and inch and remove it by sliding it to the rear.
5) Remove the recoil spring from the rear of the bolt carrier.
6) Pull the bolt back as far as it will go, and remove entire assembly.
7) Use a pin punch to pry the lever located on the right of rear sight base into the position where the camming surface located at the front is completely vertical.
8) Raise the handguard assembly and rock it slowly from side to side until it can be pulled away from the gas block.
9) Pull the gas piston out of the handguard assembly.
Reverse to assemble.
Design Quirks:When buying an SKS you can actually check the accuracy of it SOLELY by looking at it, know how? Look at the front sight, see a number? (1, 2, or 3) When the Russkies test fired the SKS they stamped the rifles front sights with one of the numbers with 1 being the best and 3 being the worst.
Carbines
Model: Heckler & Koch MP5 The MP5 (Machine-Pistole 5) is a submachine gun based on the Heckler & Koch G3 assault rifle. Work on the MP5 began in 1964. Within two years, it gained the acceptance of the German Police / Border Guard, the Bundswehr and a number of special forces units. It was unique in it's time for being one of the few closed-bolt submachine guns, the roller-delayed blowback giving exceptional accuracy and recoil control.
Though heavy and somewhat ergonomically difficult, the MP5 has been the dominant sub-gun amongst militaries for the second half of the twentieth century, now with a staggering number ol variants. With the advent of PDWs (Personal Defense Weapons) such as the P90 and MP7, or even ultra-compact assault rifles, the MP5 and other submachine guns have been seeing significantly less use, but they remain strong in law enforcement use.
- HK54: The original model that was produced in the mid 1960s. It later became known as the MP5A1, a very slightly modified version. No buttstock (endplate/receiver cap in place of buttstock), "Navy"/"SEF" trigger group.
- MP5A2: Fixed buttstock, "SEF" trigger group.
- MP5SFA2: Fixed buttstock, single-fire (SF) trigger group.
- MP5A3: Retractable buttstock,"SEF" trigger group.
- MP5SFA3: Retractable buttstock, single-fire (SF) trigger group.
- MP5A4: Fixed buttstock, 3-round burst trigger group.
- MP5A5: Retractable buttstock, 3-round burst trigger group.
- MP5-N: Model developed specifically for the U.S. Navy. Ambidextrous "Navy" trigger group, 3-lug/threaded barrel for attaching a sound suppressor; retractable stock.
- MP5F: Model developed specifically for the French military. Rubber-padded retractable stock, ambidextrous sling loops/bolts and internal modifications to handle high-pressure ammunition.
- MP5K: Short (Kurz) version, "SEF" trigger group.
- MP5KA1: MP5K with smooth upper surface and small iron sights to prevennt snagging; "SEF" trigger group.
- MP5KA4: MP5K with 3-round burst trigger group.
- MP5KA5: MP5KA1 with 3-round burst trigger group.
- MP5K-N: MP5K with "Navy" trigger group and 3-lug/threaded barrel for mounting suppressors or other muzzle attachments.
- MP5K-PDW: Personal Defense Weapon; MP5K-N with added folding stock and 3-lug/threaded barrel for mounting of suppressors; "Navy" or 3-round burst trigger group. Introduced in 1991.
- MP5SD1: No buttstock (endplate/receiver cap in place of buttstock), "SEF" trigger group, integrated suppressor (Schalldämpfer)
- MP5SD2: Fixed buttstock, "SEF" trigger group, integrated suppressor.
- MP5SD3: Retractable buttstock, "SEF" trigger group, integrated suppressor.
- MP5SD4: No buttstock (endplate/receiver cap in place of buttstock), 3-round burst trigger group, integrated suppressor.
- MP5SD5: Fixed buttstock, 3-round burst trigger group, integrated suppressor.
- MP5SD6: Retractable buttstock, 3-round burst trigger group, integrated suppressor.
- MP5SD-N1: Retractable buttstock, "Navy" trigger group, KAC stainless steel suppressor.
- MP5SD-N2: Fixed buttstock, "Navy" trigger group, KAC stainless steel suppressor.
- MP5/10: Chambered in 10mm Auto, available in various stock/trigger group configurations. It was unique in using a straight-type magazine and was the only model to use a bolt catch It was produced from 1992 to 2000 for the US Federal Bureau of Investigations, bebfore they switched over to the .40 S&W catridge.
- MP5/40: Chambered in .40 S&W, available in various stock/trigger group configurations. It was produced from 1992 to 2000.
- HK94: American import model of the MP5 with a 16 in barrel and special safe/semi-automatic trigger group, designed for civilian use. It was made from 1983 to 1989, in three different configurations. Some of these were converted to fire in fully automatic by movie armorers and used to stand in for the MP5 in various movies during the 1980s and 1990s, due to most of the real MP5s being imported into the United States at the time being earmarked for military and law enforcement sales. These 'fake' MP5s can often be identified by the lack of the paddle-style magazine release between the magazine well and trigger guard as well as having smooth barrels with no lugs or threading.
- SP89: Sport Pistole M1989. Semi-automatic only version of the MP5K designed for civilian use. It had a modified foregrip redesigned into a traditional handguard to make it compliant with the Semi-Auto Weapons Ban of 1989. It was made from 1989 to 1994. As with the HK94 mentioned above, some of these weapons were also used to stand in for their select-fire counterparts in films and television.
Where to find:
The MP5 is one of the most famous weapons in the world. It can be found in the hands of 41 different countries' military and police forces, including the SWAT teams of the United States, Authorised Firearms Officers in the United Kingdom, and the majority of the German police and military. However, in general, H&K is not especially friendly toward civilian sales and the selection for the common person is quite limited. The HK94 is a legal civilian version that can only fire in semi-automatic and has a 16 inch carbine barrel, while the SP89 is an MP5K converted into a semi-automatic pistol. Both of these can be bought legally for civilian use and registered. However, there are very few full-auto MP5s in civilian hands. Also, both automatic MP5's (and the Class 3 license needed to purchase them) and semi-auto versions are quite expensive, at several thousand dollars minimum.
Complexity:
The weapon is quite reliable and has a thick recoil spring. It is a very high-quality weapon, hence the cost. Due to the closed-bolt operation, a magazine loaded with the full 30 rounds (rather than 29) may fail to seat properly if the bolt group is forward. Also, when converted to .22LR the gun has reliability issues; with every two or three magazines, an empty case will fail to extract and the bolt will travel rearward and then forward, stripping a another round from the magazine and attempting to chamber it. Sometimes this stoppage is easy to clear, but all too often the empty case or loaded cartridge will either wedge into some inconvenient location in the bolt group or drop down into the trigger group, requiring disassembly of the weapon.
Size and weight:
Weight 4.4 pounds (2 kg) to 7.9 pounds (3.6 kg) unloaded depending on the model. Barrel length 4.5 inches (115 mm) to 8.9 inches (225 mm). Overall length 12.8 inches (325 mm) to 31.7 inches (805 mm).
Action:
Select fire (semi or full auto, with optional 2 or 3 round burst) for military and police models, semi-auto for civilian models. Roller-delayed blowback, closed bolt.
Caliber(s):
9x19mm Parabellum
10mm Auto (MP5/10)
.40 S&W (MP5/40)
Magazine:
15, 30, or 32-round steel detachable box magazine or 100 round Beta-C drum magazine.
Trigger:
Single action.
Controls:
Interchangeable polymer trigger module with three-position fire selector. In the SEF trigger group, the positions are S (Sicher) for safe, E (Einzelfeuer) for semi-automatic, and F (Feuerstoß) fully automatic, all on the left side within reach of the right thumb. It can also take a three-position fire selector with pictograms for safe, semi, or 3-round burst, an ambidextrous four-position selector with pictograms for safe, semi, 2 or 3-round burst, and fully automatic, an ambidextrous two-position selector for safe and semi, and the ambidextrous Navy trigger group with three positions for safe, semi, and fully automatic.
The cocking handle is at a 45 degree angle above the handguard. Pulling it back and rotating it slightly clockwise (up) locks the lever. The magazine release is a paddle directly behind the magazine well, with an additional button on the right side.The rear sight is a drum that can be rotated for various aperture sizes.
The telescoping stock versions are adjusted by a lever under the stock attachment point, while the folding stock model is released by pulling upwards on the stock itself.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Insert the magazine into the well, straight in, pulling to ensure it is locked in place.
3) To make ready to fire, draw the cocking lever fully to the rear and release it under it's own tension. Riding the handle forward may cause a malfunction!*
4) Place the fire selector on safe. Depending on the trigger group, this will either be a 0, S, or pictogram of a crossed-out bullet.
"HK Slap" - A unique technique done with MP5s because it is somewhat difficult to insert a fully loaded magazine.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Grasp the cocking handle and draw it to the rear. Rotate it upwards into it's notch.
3) Insert the magazine into the well, straight in, pulling to ensure it is locked in place.
4) Rotate the cocking lever downwards - most slap it into place, hence the name.
5) Place the fire selector on safe. Depending on the trigger group, this will either be a 0, S, or pictogram of a crossed-out bullet.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
This is not possible on the MP5.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Insert the magazine into the well, straight in, pulling to ensure it is locked in place.
3) To make ready to fire, draw the cocking lever fully to the rear and release it under it's own tension. Riding the handle forward may cause a malfunction!
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Squeeze the magazine release and tug the magazine free of the gun.
3) Pull the cocking lever fully to the rear and lock it upward.
4) Examine the chamber visually, then probe with your finger.
5) Release the cocking lever and pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
Instructional Video
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Clear the weapon as described in the unloading procedures
3) Remove the stock locking pin and slide the stock off to the rear.
4) Swing down the trigger group, then slide the bolt assembly and recoil spring clear of the receiver by pulling the cocking lever to the rear.
5) Remove the handguard pin and pull it from the gun.
6) Pull the recoil spring rearward and off the gun.
7) Rotate the bolt head 90 degrees clockwise and detach it from the locking piece, then remove the locking piece, firing pin and firing pin spring from the bolt head carrier.
8) To remove the trigger mechanism, decock the hammer, rotate the selective fire lever to its vertical position, and pull it out to free the housing.
Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun.
Model: MAC-10/MAC-11The MAC-10 (Military Armament Corporation Model 10, officially the M10) is a machine pistol designed by Gordon Ingram in 1964. It is a blowback-operated automatic weapon, made primarily of steel stampings, that was in use with the United States Special Forces during the Vietnam War. However, it was only in service from 1970-1975. The MAC-10 is an ultra-compact weapon firing .45 ACP or 9x19mm Parabellum rounds for good stopping power, though the rate of fire (over 1000 rounds per minute) greatly decreases accuracy. An inexperienced user can easily empty the magazine in under a second with few bullets hitting the intended target, and even short bursts are ineffective past 20 meters. Many guns have a front strap that can be held to steady the weapon.
The MAC-11 is a smaller variant chambered for .380 ACP, though this is the least common of the firearm series due to the low stopping power of the round. The M11/9 is chambered in 9x19mm Parabellum, and was later produced by Cobray (the Cobray guns can be recognized by the elongated receivers).
One of the most famous aspects of the MAC-10 and MAC-11 is the large suppressor produced for the gun; the revolutionary suppressor by Sionics was a two-stage design that was extraordinarily effective in quieting the sound of the discharge and also made the weapon easier to hold and control.
Where to find:
The MAC-10 is one of the cheapest fully automatic firearms in the United States. Of course, this is hardly something to be proud of; the gun still costs around $3000. Both the automatic gun and the suppressor are classified as Title II weapons, forcing a lot of legal red tape to be cut through to get the most effective package. The semi-automatic versions are much cheaper and easier to acquire.
Complexity:
The MAC-10 is an extraordinarily simple and cheap gun; it has relatively few moving parts and is easy to field strip for maintenance. When new, the gun is quite reliable and the parts are inexpensive, with Cobray still selling replacement parts for the 9mm copies. The biggest problem is the ridiculously high rate of fire, which makes it difficult to keep the gun on target past short range.
Size and weight:
Weight 2.84 kg (6.26 lbs) empty and w/o suppressor. Barrel length 146 mm (5.74 in.). Total length 269 mm (10.7 in.) with stock removed to 798 mm (2 ft, 7.4 in.) with stock extended and suppressor attached.
Action:
Blowback
Caliber(s):
.45 ACP
9x19mm Parabellum
.380 ACP (MAC-11)
Magazine:
Detachable box magazine, 30 rounds (.45 ACP), 32 rounds (9x19mm), or 16 or 32 rounds (.380 ACP).
Trigger:
Single action
Controls:
The safety is on the right side of the frame above the trigger guard; forward for fire, back for safe. The cocking knob is on top of the gun, and on the M11/9 it also acts as a safety; turning it 90 degrees locks the knob forward. The fire selector is on the left front of the frame and has labels for SEMI and FULL. The magazine release is on the bottom of the back of the handgrip and can be pressed with your thumb as you tug the magazine free.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Ensure that the safety is off.
3) Take a magazine and insert it into the bottom of the handguard until it clicks into place. Tug on it slightly to ensure that it is in.
4) Grasp the cocking knob and pull it all the way back, then let it move forward under spring pressure.
5) Turn the safety on.
To fire, move the safety forward and pull the trigger.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done.Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Ensure that the safety is off.
3) Take a magazine and insert it into the bottom of the handguard until it clicks into place. Tug on it slightly to ensure that it is in.
To fire, **** the gun and pull the trigger.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Turn the safety on.
3) Press the magazine release and tug the magazine free.
4) Pull the cocking knob back to clear the chamber and visually inspect the chamber for ammunition.
5) Release the cocking knob.
6) Pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Clear the weapon as described in the unloading procedures.
3) Push the receiver pin catch on the front of the receiver back and remove the receiver pin from the gun. If there is no catch, simply press sharply on the receiver pin.
4) Pull the upper receiver up and off the gun.
5) Slide the cocking knob to the rear, turn it a few degrees, and pull it up. Slide the bolt and cocking knob out the back of the receiver.
6) If you have a stock, press the stock latch button and pull the stock off, keeping pressure on the button.
Reverse to reassemble.
Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun.
Model: FN P90One of the oddest-looking modern firearms, the P90 is an extremely unique personal defense weapon (PDW) by the famed Belgian manufacturer FN Herstal. FN's Project 9.0 is a select-fire submachine gun designed as a replacement for the 9x19mm Parabellum submachine guns used by NATO. The P90 is a very compact bullpup weapon with the magazine placed horizontally on top of the receiver. It fires the unique 5.7x28mm pistol round, a pointed bullet designed for piercing armor; other than the AR-57, a special upper receiver for the AR-15 that uses P90 magazines, the FN Five-seven handgun is the only other weapon that fires this special round. It is fully ambidextrous, with empty casings falling from a chute in the bottom of the frame.
The P90 was first produced in 1990 and has become quite popular, especially in pop culture. The P90 TR is a variant that replaces the built-in reflex sight with a MIL-STD-1913 rail, and the weapon is available to civilians as the PS90, a semi-automatic carbine with a 16 inch barrel.
Where to find: The P90 is nowhere near as common as the MP5 or Uzi, but it is still used by over 200 law enforcement agencies as of 2009. The PS90 is popular among civilian shooters. It's quite expensive, though, at $1700 from good dealers. The select-fire P90 is only available to Class 3 dealers and is far more expensive.
Complexity: The P90 is quite unusual, with the trigger very far forward. Shooters need to be careful with their grip to keep away from the short barrel, and it's not immediately intuitive how to load and fire the weapon. The biggest problem is finding ammunition; due to the very small variety of guns that fire 5.7x28mm rounds, online dealers are the best bet for any stocks of ammo; gun stores are even refusing to buy more boxes if demand isn't big enough.
Size and weight: Weight 2.54 kg (5.60 lbs) empty. Barrel length 263 mm (10.4 in.), 406.4 mm (16 in.) for PS90. Total length 500 mm (19.7 in.).
Action: Straight blowback, closed boltCaliber(s): 5.7x28mm
Magazine: Detachable box magazine. 10, 30, or 50 rounds
Trigger: Single action
Controls: The safety/fire selector is a wheel below the trigger; it has spaces for safe (S), semi-auto (1), and full auto (2). The PS90 does not have a full auto selector. The cocking handle is just behind the barrel on both sides of the gun. The magazine catch is just behind the magazine on both sides of the gun.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety by twisting it so the S is in front of the trigger.
3) Take a loaded magazine and insert it into the top of the gun by sliding the forward end under the sight, then pushing the rear of the magazine down until it clicks. Pull the magazine up slightly to ensure that it is in place.
4) Pull the cocking handle back and let it snap forward.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Take a loaded magazine and insert it into the top of the gun by sliding the forward end under the sight, then pushing the rear of the magazine down until it clicks. Pull the magazine up slightly to ensure that it is in place.
To prepare for firing, pull the cocking handle back and let it snap forward.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety by twisting it so the S is in front of the trigger.
3) Pull the magazine catch behind the magazine back on both sides of the gun, then lift the back of the magazine up and pull it out of the gun.
4) Pull the cocking handle back to eject the round in the chamber and visually examine the chamber for spare ammo.
5) Release the cocking handle.
6) Set the safety to 1, or semi-automatic.
7) Pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Clear the gun as described in the unloading procedures.
3) Pull the cocking handle to the rear and release it; the gun can only be properly stripped when cocked.
4) Hold down the barrel support lock just behind the sight (where the magazine would go) and slide the barrel and sight group off the barrel.
5) Push the moving parts group forwards via the magazine opening and carefully slide it off the frame.
6) Slide the butt plate up and off the frame.
7) Raise the hammer group release lever on the butt and slide the hammer group out of the frame.
Reverse to assemble.
Design Quirks: The P90 is completely ambidextrous; the safety, magazine catch, and cocking handle are all on both sides of the gun, and the magazine catch must be pressed on both sides to release the magazine. Empty cases also eject from a chute in the bottom of the frame, avoiding the problem of a left-handed shooter being struck in the face by cases.
Model: Beretta Cx4 Storm A companion gun to the Px4 handgun, the Beretta Cx4 is a pistol caliber carbine first sold in 2003. It's meant to be an affordable civilian carbine firing cheap, low-recoil ammunition. One of the interesting capabilities of the rifle is accepting magazines from other 9x19mm Parabellum Beretta handguns, allowing for a smaller and less varied ammunition loadout. Every caliber can also be purchased with proprietary Cx4 magazines, and the .45 ACP version only accepts proprietary magazines.
Each Cx4 includes a contoured bottom Picatinny rail for adding accessories and a side rail, and can also attach an extra side rail and a top-mounted rail. It is also one of the few weapons where the safety, ejection port, and magazine release can be switched to the right side of the weapon to accommodate left-handed shooters.
Where to find:
The Cx4 is a popular carbine for plinking, target shooting, and law enforcement markets. The price can be mid-range, around $450, or rather expensive at $700.
Complexity:
The Storm is meant to be a very simple and comfortable weapon for any civilian shooter, and has some similarities to the Px4 handgun, making it even easier for Px4 users to learn it.
Size and weight:
Weight 2.58 kg (5.68 lbs). Barrel length 422.5 mm (16.6 in.). Total length 755mm (29.7 in.).
Action:
Blowback semi-automatic
Caliber(s):
9x19mm Parabellum
9x21mm IMI
.45 ACP
.40 S&W
Magazine:
8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 20, or 30-round detachable plastic box magazine
Trigger:
Single-action
Controls:
The safety is on the left side of the gun, just below the upper receiver; when the red band is visible, the safety is OFF. The magazine release, much like on a handgun, is on the left side of the gun behind the trigger guard. The cocking handle is on the left side of the gun.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety.
3) Take a loaded magazine and push it into the magazine well in the bottom of the grip until it clicks into place. Tug on it to ensure that it is fully seated.
4) Pull the cocking handle back and let it snap forward under spring tension.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Not possible, as there is no external hammer.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Take a loaded magazine and push it into the magazine well in the bottom of the grip until it clicks into place. Tug on it to ensure that it is fully seated.
To prepare to fire, pull the cocking handle back and release.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety.
3) Push the magazine release and remove the magazine.
4) Pull the cocking handle back to eject any round in the chamber and visually inspect the chamber for stray ammunition.
5) Release the cocking handle.
6) Deactivate the safety.
7) Pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Clear the gun as described in the unloading procedure.
3) Pull the cocking handle back to **** the hammer, then gently close the bolt.
4) Push the disassembly latch on the left side of the gun (in front of the trigger guard) out of the carbine from either side.
5) Slide the receiver and barrel assembly out the front of the stock.
6) Fully retract the cocking handle until it's lined up with the open part of the ejection port, then forcefully tug it out.
7) Pull the bolt out of the barrel.
Reverse to assemble.
Design Quirks:
The most unique aspect is the ability to share magazines with Beretta handguns, saving money on purchasing if you already have some Beretta mags and allowing you to use your pistol ammo in an emergency.
One of the definitive .22 caliber rifles and one seen at ranges all over the world. The Ruger 10/22 is a cheap semi-automatic rifle firing .22LR ammunition, essentially the cheapest ammo available. The low recoil and report and high accuracy of the cartridge makes it an excellent starter rifle, especially for people with no firearms experience, and it remains accurate enough for target shooting. It was one of the first .22LR rifles to be designed as an "adult" gun rather than a child's learner gun, but it is still a good rifle for teaching younger shooters.The 10/22 has been in constant production since 1964 and over 5 million have been produced. There are several variations on the basic rifle: the 10/22 Target model has a 20 inch bull barrel and no iron sights, the AWC Ultra II has an integral silencer and shortened barrel (making it a Title II weapon), and the SR-22 has a similar frame to AR-15 rifles but with the controls in similar locations to a 10/22.
Where to find:
With 5 million made and still in production, it's hard not to find a 10/22. The gun is extremely popular for plinking, small-game hunting, target shooting, and teaching new shooters. They can be bought for as low as $150 and as high as $250, depending on the age, modifications, and stock (synthetic is more expensive than wood).
Complexity:
Along with easy-to-use controls and a very quiet report with essentially zero recoil, the rifle itself is about as simple as possible. The barrel is screwed in, allowing for users to replace it themselves, and only a few tools (including a simple screwdriver) are needed for replacing parts. Despite the magazine having a unique rotary method of stacking and feeding cartridges rather than a spring, it is not particularly complex and is just as easy to use as a normal box.
Size and weight:
Weight 2.4 kg (5.25 lbs). Barrel length 470 mm (18.5 i.).Total length 940 mm (37 in.).
Action:
Blowback
Caliber(s):
.22LR
.17 HMR (10/17)
.22 WMR (10/22 Magnum)
Magazine:
Detachable box magazine. 5, 10, 20 (shown on the right), 25, 30, or 50 round drums.
Trigger:
Single action.
Controls:
The safety is a cross-bolt in front of the trigger; push to the right for SAFE and to the left for FIRE. The bolt handle is on the right side of the receiver. The magazine release is in front of the trigger. The bolt lock is in the front of the trigger guard; push the bottom portion while the bolt is back to lock it and press the top part to unlock it.
Loading: How to load the firearm and make ready to fire.
Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety.
3) Take a loaded magazine and push it into the magazine well in front of the trigger guard until it clicks. 5 and 10 round magazines should fit flush with the stock.
4) Pull the bolt handle back and release it to chamber a round.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
Cannot be done.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Take a loaded magazine and push it into the magazine well until it clicks into place.
To prepare to fire, pull the cocking handle back and release.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety.
3) Push the magazine release forward and remove the magazine.
4) Pull the bolt handle back to eject any round in the chamber and check for any extra ammunition.
5) Release the bolt handle.
6) Deactivate the safety.
7) Pull the trigger.
Field Stripping:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Activate the safety.
3) Unload the rifle as described in the unloading procedures.
4) Pull the bolt handle back and let it snap forward to **** the hammer.
5) If there is a barrel band, loosen and remove it.
6) Loosen (don't remove) the takedown screw.
7) Push the safety so it is in the middle, with an equal amount of the button showing on either side.
8) Swing the barrel/receiver assembly up and out of the stock.
9) Drift out the two receiver pins and remove the trigger assembly.
Reverse to assemble.
Design Quirks:
The unique rotary magazine of the 5 and 10 round mags allow it to fit flush in the stock. The 25 and 30 round magazines are larger and curved, however.
The Rules - What you should know before reading these pages and handling weapons.
Firearms - A basic guide to different types of firearms.
Accessories - The add-ons that may just give you an edge in that gunfight.
Ammunition - An overview of types of ammo and reloading.
Weapons reviews - A user-created database of reviews for various zombie-slaying implements.
Handguns, Rifles, Shotguns, Heavy Weaponry - A user-created guide to using and maintaining firearms you are likely to come across.
theman838 |
Latest page update: made by theman838
, Apr 1 2012, 12:44 AM EDT
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| Started By | Thread Subject | Replies | Last Post | ||
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| MercenaryCanary | Anyone Heard of the CZ-527 Carbine? Check it out! | 4 | Aug 3 2012, 1:03 AM EDT by IrishHitman | ||
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Thread started: Aug 1 2012, 7:25 AM EDT
Watch
The CZ-527 is a bolt-action rifle chambered in 7.62x39, has a five-round detachable magazine, and possibly is the most accurate thing I've ever laid hands upon.
It was reliable for me despite having used as cheap as possible ammunition I could get my hands on. Accuracy was top-notch as well, with me getting 1-inch groups at 100 yards. The target trigger is awesome too. What you do is you push slightly forward on the trigger, and it requires a simple press to make it shoot. You have to manually set it each time for that too, so don't worry about it just going off. Why do I think its a good rifle for a zombie apocalypse? Namely because you can carry more ammunition for it (.308 isn't exactly known for being light), it will always work for you, and the sights almost make it so you don't even need a scope. All of these lend themselves well to the zombie apocalypse. Well, I just wanted to let the community know about it. Almost no one I've talked to has heard of it, which is a shame because it is just so great.
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Keyword tags:
Bolt-action
Carbine
CZ-527
Rifles
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| vampirejediknight | The SKS (page: 1 2) | 26 | Jul 21 2012, 10:41 PM EDT by 11ACRBlackhorse | ||
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Thread started: Jul 8 2011, 12:55 PM EDT
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Well, the round has some good stopping power, and if you have 30 round mags, then you'd be using the same round with the same capacity as and AK-47, but I hear SKS is more accurate. Of course, it lacks the fabled reliability of the AK-47, and is an older design, but I hear good things about it. The AK-47, however, takes 75 round drums. Really you could carry both and have one type of ammo, using one or the other depending on whether you needed reliability or accuracy. SKS is cheaper, too, and there are a lot of surplus in the US, but they aren't really in production, are they? Well...just tell me your thoughts on this rifle and its use (particularly against rager zombies).
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| petranko | rifle page improvments | 9 | Jun 27 2012, 6:32 PM EDT by chitoryu12 | ||
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Thread started: Mar 23 2012, 5:54 PM EDT
Watch
te mp5's mac's and other smg's should go on their own page. you should also add more civilain rifles and discribe their affectiveness against zombies
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