The Legacy of Cimarron Firearms & The 1887 Shotgun

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A Glimpse into the Old West

Cimarron Firearms has established itself as a leading name in the world of replica firearms, bringing the spirit of the Old West to life with unparalleled authenticity. Founded in 1984 by Mike Harvey in Fredericksburg, Texas, Cimarron has focused on producing high-quality replicas of historical firearms, particularly those from the American frontier period. The company’s dedication to detail and historical accuracy has made it a favorite among collectors, reenactors, and cowboy action shooters.

The Birth of Cimarron Firearms

Cimarron Firearms was born out of Harvey’s passion for the guns of the Old West. His goal was to create replicas that were not just functional but also visually and historically accurate. Harvey began by importing firearms from Italian manufacturers like Uberti and Davide Pedersoli, known for their craftsmanship in reproducing historical weapons. However, what set Cimarron apart was their insistence on improving the quality and authenticity of these imports. Harvey worked closely with these manufacturers, providing them with original antique firearms to ensure that every detail, from the dimensions to the markings, matched the originals.

Cimarron quickly gained a reputation for producing some of the finest replicas of historical firearms. The company’s offerings range from iconic revolvers like the Colt Single Action Army, also known as the “Peacemaker,” to lever-action rifles and shotguns that were staples of the American West. Cimarron’s commitment to authenticity extends to their use of period-correct finishes, grips, and markings, making their firearms nearly indistinguishable from the originals.

Cimarron’s 1887 Winchester Shotgun Clone

One of the standout offerings from Cimarron is their replica of the Winchester Model 1887 shotgun, a firearm that holds a special place in the history of American firearms. The original Model 1887 was designed by the legendary John Moses Browning and was one of the first successful repeating shotguns. It was produced by Winchester Repeating Arms Company and was notable for its lever-action mechanism, which was more commonly associated with rifles at the time.

The Cimarron 1887 Winchester clone is a faithful reproduction of this iconic shotgun, capturing the look and feel of the original while incorporating modern manufacturing techniques to ensure reliability and performance. Here’s a closer look at its technical specifications:

  • Caliber: The Cimarron 1887 is available in 12-gauge, staying true to the most common chambering of the original Model 1887.
  • Capacity: It features a 5-round tubular magazine, allowing for quick follow-up shots.
  • Barrel Length: The shotgun is offered with a 20-inch barrel, which provides a balance between maneuverability and accuracy.
  • Overall Length: The total length of the Cimarron 1887 is approximately 39 inches, making it a compact and versatile option for various shooting activities.
  • Weight: The shotgun weighs around 8 pounds, which is close to the weight of the original, giving it a solid and authentic feel.
  • Finish: Cimarron offers this shotgun with a blued finish on the barrel and receiver, paired with a walnut stock and forend. The wood is finished to a period-correct standard, adding to the overall authenticity.
  • Action: The lever-action mechanism is smooth and reliable, with a design that closely mimics the original Model 1887. This shotgun also features a top-eject system, just like its historical predecessor.

A Piece of Living History

Cimarron Firearms has done an exceptional job of bringing the past to the present with their 1887 Winchester shotgun clone. This firearm is not only a tribute to John Browning’s genius but also a testament to Cimarron’s commitment to preserving the legacy of the Old West. Whether you’re a collector, a cowboy action shooter, or simply a fan of historical firearms, the Cimarron 1887 offers a unique opportunity to own and experience a piece of living history.

In conclusion, Cimarron Firearms has carved out a niche for itself by producing some of the most authentic and high-quality replicas of historical firearms on the market. Their 1887 Winchester shotgun clone is a perfect example of their dedication to craftsmanship and historical accuracy. As long as there are enthusiasts who appreciate the firearms of the Old West, Cimarron will continue to thrive as a premier name in the world of replica firearms.

The Bersa TPR9c

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The History of Bersa Firearms

Bersa, an Argentinian firearms manufacturer, has a rich history that dates back to 1958. Founded by three Italian immigrants—Bessano, Ravasio, and Savino—Bersa quickly gained recognition for producing reliable and affordable firearms. The company’s name is a blend of the founders’ surnames, which signifies their collaboration and shared vision of creating quality firearms for both civilian and military use.

Early Years and Expansion

Bersa began its journey by manufacturing a .22 caliber handgun modeled after the German Walther PP. This initial success allowed the company to expand its product line, leading to the development of various semi-automatic pistols, which became popular due to their affordability and dependability.

During the 1980s, Bersa gained prominence in the international market with the introduction of the Bersa Thunder series, a line of pistols that offered excellent performance at a reasonable price. The Thunder series, particularly the Thunder 380, became a favorite among concealed carry permit holders due to its compact size, reliability, and manageable recoil.

Bersa’s Place in the Global Market

Bersa’s commitment to quality and affordability allowed the company to compete with more established brands in the global firearms market. The company’s firearms are widely used by law enforcement agencies in Argentina and have a growing presence in the U.S. market, thanks to their reputation for reliability and value.

The evolution of Bersa firearms is marked by continuous innovation. The company has expanded its offerings to include more modern designs, catering to the needs of both civilian and professional users. This includes the TPR (Thunder Pro) series, which has become known for its robust build and performance-oriented features.

Technical Specifications of the Bersa TPR9c

The Bersa TPR9c, part of the Thunder Pro series, is a compact, high-capacity 9mm pistol designed for concealed carry and personal defense. It combines the compact size and ease of concealment of the Thunder series with the durability and reliability that Bersa is known for.

Key Specifications:

  • Caliber: 9mm
  • Capacity: 13+1 rounds
  • Barrel Length: 3.25 inches
  • Overall Length: 6.5 inches
  • Height: 5.1 inches
  • Width: 1.45 inches
  • Weight: 23 ounces (unloaded)
  • Frame Material: Aluminum alloy
  • Slide Material: Steel
  • Finish: Matte black or nickel
  • Sights: Interchangeable Sig Sauer type
  • Trigger: DA/SA (Double Action/Single Action)
  • Safety: Manual safety, decocker, and firing pin block

Performance and Features

The TPR9c is praised for its smooth trigger pull, which is a hallmark of Bersa’s design. The DA/SA trigger system provides flexibility, with a heavier first pull in double-action mode and a lighter, more precise pull in single-action mode. This feature is particularly useful for those who prefer the added safety of a longer first pull.

The pistol’s aluminum alloy frame makes it both lightweight and durable, while the steel slide ensures strength and longevity. The TPR9c also comes equipped with an interchangeable sight system, allowing users to customize their sight picture to their preference. The pistol’s ergonomics are well thought out, with a comfortable grip that accommodates a variety of hand sizes.

The TPR9c’s compact size and manageable weight make it an ideal choice for concealed carry, while its 13-round capacity provides ample firepower. The safety features, including a manual safety, decocker, and firing pin block, offer an added layer of security, making the TPR9c a reliable choice for personal defense.

Conclusion

Bersa’s legacy in the firearms industry is built on a foundation of quality, affordability, and reliability. The TPR9c exemplifies these traits, offering a compact, high-capacity option for those in search of a dependable 9mm pistol for concealed carry. With its robust construction, thoughtful design, and user-friendly features, the TPR9c is a testament to Bersa’s ongoing commitment to producing firearms that meet the needs of today’s shooters.

A Budget Friendly Competition Gun

The Taurus TX22 Competition is a specialized variant of the popular TX22 model, tailored for competitive shooting. Let’s explore its features in detail and compare it to other competitive handguns on the market.

Specifications:

  • Weight: The TX22 Competition maintains a lightweight design, similar to the standard TX22, weighing around 17.3 ounces.
  • Height: Its height remains around 5.44 inches, providing a comfortable grip and control during competitions.
  • Length: The overall length of the TX22 Competition is approximately 7.06 inches, offering a balanced feel and easy handling on the range.
  • Trigger Pull: One of the key improvements in the TX22 Competition is its enhanced trigger pull. It features a lighter and crisper trigger with a weight of around 3.5-4 pounds, contributing to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots.

Optics Compatibility: The TX22 Competition comes with an optics-ready slide, allowing shooters to easily mount red dot sights or other optical accessories. This feature enhances target acquisition speed and precision, making it ideal for competitive shooters who rely on quick and accurate aiming.

Comparison with Other Models:

  1. Ruger Mark IV: The Ruger Mark IV is a strong competitor in the competitive shooting scene. It weighs slightly more than the TX22 Competition, around 25 ounces, and has a longer overall length of approximately 9.75 inches. Its trigger pull can vary but is generally in the range of 4.5-5.5 pounds. This gun sells online starting at around $400.00.
  2. Smith & Wesson Victory: The S&W Victory is comparable to the TX22 Competition in weight and length, with a similar trigger pull weight of around 4 pounds. However, it may require aftermarket modifications for optics mounting. This gun sells online starting at around $380.00.
  3. Browning Buck Mark: The Browning Buck Mark is another contender with a weight of around 34 ounces and a longer overall length of about 9.5 inches. Its trigger pull is typically in the range of 4-5 pounds, similar to the TX22 Competition. This gun sells online starting at around $410.00.

Price: As of my last update, the Taurus TX22 Competition is competitively priced in the market for competition-grade handguns. You can find it online for around $335 to $450, depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions.

In conclusion, the Taurus TX22 Competition offers competitive shooters a lightweight, optics-ready platform with an improved trigger for enhanced performance on the range. Its features make it a strong contender against other popular models like the Ruger Mark IV, Smith & Wesson Victory, and Browning Buck Mark, providing a cost-effective option for those seeking a reliable and accurate competition handgun.

John Wick’s First Handgun!

The HK P30L V3 is a hammer fired handgun that has gained significant attention and popularity, partly due to its appearance in the first John Wick movie. This pistol has become a favorite among enthusiasts and professionals alike, thanks to its exceptional performance and innovative design features.

See our full video review of this gun @ Youtube https://youtu.be/k1d5YitdgoY?si=q3mZbFPJv-bMsxhD

Let’s delve into some statistical information about the HK P30L V3:

  1. Caliber: The HK P30L V3 is available in multiple calibers, including 9mm and .40 S&W, offering versatility to shooters based on their preferences and needs.
  2. Capacity: This pistol typically comes with a magazine capacity of 15 rounds for 9mm and 13 rounds for .40 S&W, providing ample firepower for various shooting scenarios.
  3. Barrel Length: The P30L variant features a longer barrel compared to the standard P30 model, measuring approximately 4.45 inches. This extended barrel enhances accuracy and ensures better control during shooting.
  4. Trigger System: The V3 variant of the HK P30L utilizes a unique trigger system that combines a light single-action trigger pull with a short reset, enabling quick and precise follow-up shots. This feature is highly valued by competitive shooters and those who prioritize speed and accuracy.
  5. Safety Features: HK is known for its stringent safety standards, and the P30L V3 is no exception. It includes multiple safety mechanisms such as a firing pin block, manual safety lever, and a decocking button, ensuring safe handling and operation.

For those who prefer a striker fire gun, HK has come out with the HK VP9.

Let’s dive into the comparison between the HK P30L V3 and the HK VP9, highlighting their key differences and similarities, as well as explaining the distinction between striker-fired and hammer-fired handguns.

HK P30L V3 vs. HK VP9:

  1. Action Type:
    • HK P30L V3: The P30L V3 is a hammer-fired handgun, meaning it utilizes a hammer mechanism to strike the firing pin and ignite the cartridge.
    • HK VP9: The VP9, on the other hand, is a striker-fired handgun. This means it uses a striker mechanism directly linked to the trigger to ignite the cartridge.
      • Striker-Fired:
        • Striker-fired handguns have a simpler internal mechanism where the trigger directly activates a striker (a firing pin) to ignite the cartridge.
        • They often feature consistent trigger pulls and are known for their reliability and ease of use.
        • Examples include the HK VP9, Glock pistols, and many modern semi-automatic handguns.
      • Hammer-Fired:
        • Hammer-fired handguns have a more complex mechanism where the trigger interacts with a hammer, which in turn strikes the firing pin to fire the round.
        • They may offer both double-action and single-action trigger modes, providing versatility in shooting styles.
        • Examples include the HK P30 series, CZ 75, and Beretta 92 series.

In summary, the HK P30L V3 and HK VP9 represent two excellent options from Heckler & Koch, each with its unique action type and features. Understanding the differences between striker-fired and hammer-fired handguns can help shooters choose the firearm that best suits their preferences, shooting style, and intended use.

The Walther PPK: A Modern CCW Weapon for Concealed Carry

Introduction: When it comes to choosing a reliable and effective concealed carry weapon (CCW), the Walther PPK has earned its place in the spotlight. With its compact design, renowned reliability, and iconic status, the Walther PPK is a popular choice among those seeking a discreet and powerful self-defense option. In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons behind its reputation as a modern CCW weapon.

  1. Compact Size and Comfort: One of the primary considerations for a concealed carry weapon is its size, and the Walther PPK excels in this aspect. With its slim profile and shorter barrel length, it offers a comfortable and discreet fit when concealed on your person. This compactness allows for easy concealment, be it in an inside-the-waistband holster or an ankle carry setup.
  2. Reliability and Performance: The Walther PPK is known for its outstanding reliability and performance. Originally designed for law enforcement and civilian use, this semi-automatic pistol has a proven track record of dependability. Its robust construction and quality materials ensure smooth functioning, providing peace of mind knowing that it will operate reliably in critical situations.
  3. Ergonomics and Handling: The PPK’s ergonomic design and intuitive controls make it an excellent choice for concealed carry. With its comfortable grip and well-placed controls, including a manual safety and decocker, it offers a user-friendly experience. This means easier operation, quick target acquisition, and a reduced learning curve for both experienced shooters and those new to concealed carry.
  4. Chambering and Caliber Options: The Walther PPK is available in various chamberings to suit personal preferences and local regulations. Originally chambered in .32 ACP, it is also available in .380 ACP (9mm Kurz in Europe) for those desiring added stopping power. The availability of different chamberings allows individuals to select the appropriate caliber based on their comfort, proficiency, and specific self-defense needs.
  5. A Legacy of Excellence: The Walther PPK’s legacy dates back to its introduction in the 1930s, and its reputation has only grown stronger over time. Its association with James Bond has heightened its allure, capturing the imagination of gun enthusiasts and casual fans alike. This legacy of excellence ensures the Walther PPK remains a sought-after CCW weapon.

Conclusion: When it comes to concealed carry weapons, the Walther PPK, while not as updated as many new carry guns, stands as a reliable, compact, and effective choice. Its compact size, reliable performance, ergonomics, and caliber options make it a popular selection for those who prioritize discreet self-defense. As always, responsible ownership, regular training, and adherence to the law are crucial factors to consider when carrying any firearm.

My 1st CCW: Ruger’s SR22

So many years ago, I wanted to get my conceal carry license. I hadn’t shot a gun in a long long time. I had several large caliber guns but was worried about the qualifying portion of the CCW test. My understanding was we’d have to have a 90% accuracy with a time limit. The thought of acquiring my target 9 out of 10 times with a stopwatch clicking after my gun kicked every shot seemed nerve wrecking.

The answer: why not qualify with a .22? I shot those as a kid and if the 8 year old me could handle it, the “38” year old me should have no problem. So, I started looking at semi-automatic 22s. Hands down, the Ruger SR-22 jumped out.

There were several reasons (and these reasons usually always apply when I’m looking at a new gun for my collection):

Price: I believe I paid somewhere in the neighborhood of $350.00 for the gun – fair enough.

Capacity: 10 + 1. More than enough so I wasn’t reloading under pressure to qualify (We had to center mass 27 out of 30) – so 3 mags and I’m good. HUGE PLUS – the gun came with two 10 round magazines.

Sights: Very visible adjustable 3-dot sights.

Action: Super smooth. Light double action with a nice crisp SA trigger pull.

Hammer: External hammer (I really like an external hammer as opposed to not having one or striker fire – more on this in future posts!)

Safety: I like having a safety on my guns. This gun has an ambidextrous thumb safety AND a de-cocking lever (also one of my favorite add-ons).

Recoil: Practically non-existent!

Lastly, the gun is pretty small and lightweight. It weighs 17.5 oz (unloaded) and had and overall length of 6.4″; height of 4.9″; and, width of .97″. A wee bit too big for a pocket carry but easy enough for other ways to carry. (Yes, I realize 22LR is not really anybody’s choice caliber to carry – but hey, if you had to …)

Needless to say, I bought this gun, used it to qualify and LOVE to take it out and plink at the range every once and awhile. It’s a great overall gun. This is the gun I let friends who have never shot use. It llets them get used to the mechanics of firing a weapon without the jolt of a .357 or .45. It’s the gun I use to teach my daughter with and HIGHLY recommend getting one if you’re looking at 22s.