POTD: North American Arms Mini Revolvers

Today’s Photo Of The Day is a picture shared by North American Arms (NAA) on their social media pages. It depicts the following models of the company’s rimfire mini revolvers (top to bottom):  The HoglegThe SheriffSidewinder and  22 Long Rifle. The chambering of the latter is of course .22LR and the rest of these wheelguns are chambered in .22 Magnum. All four revolvers have five-round cylinders. The barrel lengths are 6″, 2.5″, 1.5″ and 1.13″.

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Concealed Carry Corner: Best To Worst Carry Positions

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week, we discussed the biggest mistakes concealed carriers make when starting out. If you happened to miss that article, be sure to click the link here to check it out. For this week’s topic, I wanted to dive into some of the most common carry methods and rank them from best to worst in my experience. I often question why I carry a certain way, so I figured this would be the easiest way to break down how and why I carry the way I do. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best to worst carry positions.

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Wheelgun Wednesday: Some Intriguing Revolvers at the Springfield Museum

I recently had the chance to visit Springfield, Massachusetts while giving a talk at the Arsenals of History Symposium at the Springfield Armory. While in Springfield, I checked out their local museum (technically 5 museums in one!), tucked away in the  Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History was an interesting firearms gallery. The museum boasts “more than 1,600 firearms, with the largest collection of Smith & Wesson guns in the world”. While only a fraction of those firearms are on display, the museum definitely had some very interesting pieces.

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Wheelgun Wednesday: NEW Wrapid Loader From KazTac

Welcome to TFB’s Wheelgun Wednesday, where we take a look at as many aspects of revolvers as we can, one week at a time. Today, we’ll take a look at a newly available speedloader, called the Wrapid Loader. The aptly named Wrapid Loader uses links to hold revolver cartridges, between which are housed some springs to wrap the connected links into a cylinder shape. Because of the springs, the Wrapid loader can be carried flat in a belt pouch, but when deployed, it returns to the designated cylindrical shape to reload a revolver. The shooter then pulls the ring at the end of the loader, and the links release their cartridges one by one as the revolver’s cylinder turns from the force.

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Elvis Presley's S&W Model 53 Revolver Sold For Almost $200,000

Rock Island Auction Company’s premier auctions always contain firearms that belonged to prominent figures such as renowned political and military leaders, artists, celebrities, etc. The recently-ended August 2023 Rock Island Premier Firearms Auction was no exception and there was a Smith & Wesson Model 53 revolver consigned to this auction that once belonged to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll Elvis Presley. The estimated price range that this revolver was expected to be sold at was $60,000 – $90,000, however, the King’s wheelgun was sold for over twice the estimated high price – $199,750.

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Wheelgun Wednesday: Does Kimber's K6s 6 Shooter Need XS R3D Night Sights?

The Kimber K6s was dubbed the world’s lightest 6-shot .357 Magnum revolver at the time of its launch and has only been succeeded slightly by the ever-so-slightly smaller K6s revolver. However, what the K6xs lacks is a true rear iron sight. Last time we did an XS Sight review we took a look at the Taurus 605 Defender with the dedicated Taurus front Glow Dot. Like the K6XS, the Taurus also doesn’t have a true rear iron sight, instead, both pistols have trench-style rear sights which can be difficult to get a solid sight picture on if accuracy is your goal. In stark opposition to both of those revolvers, the K6s features a replaceable and drift adjustable rear iron sight and XS Sights just happens to make their XS R3D Night sights for that particular platform. So today we’ll be talking about those and see what advantages or disadvantages they might offer you should you choose to make the upgrade over the standard sights that the K6s ships with.

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Wheelgun Wednesday: Putting XS Sights on the Taurus 605 Defender

.357 Magnum revolvers are kind of like 1911 pistols – despite being obviously outdated and outclassed in many cases by modern concealed carry options, they’re still loved and carried by many. Taurus’ 605 Defender is one such .357 Magnum option that fits in this category and also comes in at a bargain street price of just $400 for the matte stainless version. Released in 2022, the Taurus 605 Defender has had a bit of time in the market to earn a reputation for being reliable, lightweight, and accurate, with a bit of an excessively heavy double-action trigger pull. The Taurus 605 Defender already comes standard with trench-style sights built into the frame with an orange faceted night front sight. XS Sights wanted me to give the revolver a go with their revolver front sight. Seeing as I haven’t shot any .357 Magnum in a while I figured this would be a fun dive back into defensive revolvers for me so here we go!

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Wheelgun Wednesday: Revolvers vs Bears – Survive an Apex Predator

When it comes to venturing into the outdoors to either go camping, hiking, hunting, or to snap some dope pics for the ‘Gram (Instagram), we as gun owners like to debate the merits of firearms against apex predators. Whether it is the local meth head from the trailer park “cooking” in the State Park or a more likely encounter of a bear in the woods. What is your best defense?… A sidearm like a big-bore revolver or is it “Bear-Grade” pepper spray. If you have resolved to carrying a revolver in bear country, let’s take a look back at some of the more entertaining options to come from the firearm industry in the Revolvers vs Bears debate.

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Concealed Carry Corner: What And What Not To Carry

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week, we talked about a concealed carry gun size guide. If you missed out on last week’s article, be sure to click the link here to check it out. This week, I’ve seen a ton of newer people carrying improper holsters and interesting ammo choices. There’s a plethora of fantastic holsters and ammo on the market but there’s a fair amount of poor options as well. Let’s take a closer look at what and what not to carry.

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Wheelgun Wednesday: Rock Island Auctions Valuable Civil War Revolvers

Rock Island Auction Company is known for curating some of the most expensive, gorgeous, and unique collections of firearms to ever see an auction floor. Everything from canons, small arms, and even such blades as cavalry swords. Soon, on August 25th – 27th, they have coming up an auction that is going to cover some Civil War revolvers that could draw half a million dollars for a single pair! Let’s take a look at what will be on the auction block so we can all get our bidding numbers ready.

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Concealed Carry Corner: Carry Gun Size Guide

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week, we looked at the various cost levels of carry guns. If you happened to miss that article, be sure to click the link here to check it out. This week, I wanted to talk about a similar topic that a commenter brought up to me last week. Determining the overall size of your carry gun can be a major factor in how comfortable you are carrying throughout the day. Finding that sweet spot where you have a firearm big enough for your hand yet be able to conceal it easily is the place everyone wants to eventually find to carry comfortably. Let’s take a closer look at my interpretation of a carry gun size guide.

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Wheelgun Wednesday: What's Your Go-To Barrel Length For Revolvers?

Thanks for joining us on another edition of TFB’s Wheelgun Wednesday, in which we cover every topic known to the world of revolvers. We always want to hear reader feedback, but as the title suggests, I demand humbly request your participation to hear what your go-to barrel length is when it comes to revolvers. With the exception of homemade revolvers, we’re limited to barrel length options presented by wheelgun manufacturers, but when your go-to barrel length is available, which do you choose?

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Concealed Carry Corner: Levels Of Carry Guns

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week, we took a look at whether it’s better to be self-taught or start off by taking training. Both had their perks and it was a great conversation in the comments so thank you to everyone who left their thoughts in the comment section. If you happened to miss last week’s article, be sure to click the link here. Recently I’ve heard a number of people say they don’t want to carry a concealed firearm because it’s too expensive to get set up. I think it’s a common misconception to think it costs a huge amount of money to get set up as a concealed carrier. Let’s take a closer look at some levels of carry guns.

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Concealed Carry Corner: Self-Taught vs Professional Training

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week, we talked about the risks of drinking when carrying a concealed handgun. If you happened to miss that article, be sure to click the link here to check it out. This week, I wanted to look at another topic I get more questions on than expected. With current events around the country, there has been an uptick not only in new concealed carriers but also in women who want to carry concealed firearms. There have been a fair number of people interested in getting their concealed carry license but get anxious about taking a class for the first time. Many have said it’s best to go out and shoot on your own first while others preach to get training first so you learn to shoot correctly. Let’s take a closer look at self-taught vs professional training.

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Wheelgun Wednesday: Current Chinese Police Revolvers – NRP9 and ZLS05

Thanks for joining us for another TFB Wheelgun Wednesday, where we discover the vast world of revolvers. We have been taking an occasional look at revolvers still being issued by police agencies, and this week, we’ll explore the curious current issue Chinese police revolvers, the Norinco NRP9 and the ZLS05. It’s always interesting to see what  handguns police agencies decide to issue, especially when it comes to wheelguns in 2023. Let’s take a look at the Chinese police revolvers.

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Taurus Adds Special Color Models To 856 Revolver Lineup

Taurus is adding new limited edition color variants of the 856 Ultralite revolver. TFB has looked at some 856 models recently, including the optics-ready 856 TORO and 856 Defender models. But all of those versions were in fairly standard color schemes.

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Concealed Carry Corner: Risks of Carrying and Drinking

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week, we talked about some of the top personalities in the concealed carry space. You guys did a great job in the comments section, so be sure to watch for part two. If you happened to miss that article be sure to click the link here to check it out. This week, I wanted to talk about a common issue that I see both in person and on the web. There are a number of people I know who will have a drink or two while carrying concealed. They often times say it’s no big deal and dismiss anything I say to them. There are some real issues with drinking while carrying not only legally but ethically as well. Let’s take a closer look at the risks of carrying and drinking.

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Wheelgun Wednesday: Smith & Wesson Classic – What's Old is New Again

In this week’s Wheelgun Wednesday, we are going to turn back the clock a bit. In previous posts, we have talked about several double-action revolvers I own and am in love with. Specifically, some older model Smith & Wessons like the Model 27. The Smith & Wesson Model 27 is a favorite of mine because it has that iconic, classic revolver look. There is a mystique to it. It looks like it could be a “Dirty Harry” gun except that it is chambered in .357 Magnum. Guns like this are simply timeless because it makes us wax fondly back on a time when firearms had an air of elegance and beauty to them as well as functionality. While all of the original revolvers are very expensive and extremely difficult to hunt down nowadays, you can still get that old-school cool if you want via Smith & Wesson. They have the Smith & Wesson Classic series that has continued to grow and expand over the past several years – and while they don’t churn out a high volume on a yearly basis – they definitely have retained that gorgeous look and timeless beauty many of us search out. Let’s go back and revisit my old Model 27 while also seeing what the new Smith & Wesson Classic series has to offer.

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Wheelgun Wednesday: 'Dangerous' Saturday Night Special – Why Illegal?

You might have heard the term “Saturday Night Special” before if you’re old enough – and while that might be dating yourself (me included) – there is an entire generation of new shooters who are unfamiliar with that term. As old and outdated as that turn-of-phrase is, there are numerous states that still have Saturday Night Special gun laws. So, what are those laws? And, how does it pertain to our beloved revolvers that we appreciate so much?… Let’s dive into the widely unheard yet hampering laws surrounding Saturday Night Special handguns which blanket covers semi-autos and wheelguns.

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Concealed Carry Corner: How To Fly With Your Carry Gun

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week, we discussed training like we fight and the importance of consistency. If you missed that article, be sure to click the link here to check it out. This week, I want to talk about a subject that most people who carry concealed either avoid or are just too nervous to attempt. Flying with a firearm is one of those things that most aren’t willing to do because they feel like it’s either too difficult or just not worth it when traveling. Over the last few years, I have flown a number of times commercially with a firearm, along with just recently private as well which is certainly a completely different experience. Let’s take a closer look at how to fly with your carry gun.

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Wheelgun Wednesday: Ruger Wrangler 9mm!… It's on the Way… Totally…

Disclaimer: A Ruger Wrangler 9mm revolver does NOT currently exist. No one from TFB contacted Ruger for comment. All of the opinions expressed herein are of the author alone and are not associated with Ruger in any way.

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Wheelgun Wednesday: Ruger Blackhawk .357 Mag EGW Red Dot Mount

In this week’s edition of Wheelgun Wednesday, we are going to venture down a path that some people might consider blasphemy and others might view it as the future. If you are here, you are already a lover of wheelguns, but what’s your grasp of technology? The latest, greatest tech that we can incorporate into and with our firearms to make them as high speed, low drag as possible is always something our newer generation of shooters is aiming for. This can be attention to detail in the aggressiveness of our grip texturing (stippling), getting faster reloads (Bianchi speed strips or traditional HKS speedloaders), or even mounting a micro red dot to something as old and western as a Ruger Blackhawk. We are going to crawl down that precise rabbit hole looking at an EGW Red Dot Mount that I recently mounted on a customer’s six-shooter. Let’s dive in!

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HOT GAT or FUDD CRAP? Ultimate Break-Top or Bubba Tactical Co-Op?

Welcome everyone to the 194th edition of ‘Hot Gat or Fudd Crap?’, one of our many series here on TFB. If you’re new to the series, this is where we look at the most obscure firearms that are actually for sale and ask the question – is this Gat a sweet deal or only have Fudd appeal?  Each week the TFB staff weighs in with their thoughts, but readers get the final say in the poll at the bottom of each article.

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Concealed Carry Corner: My Updated Personal Carry

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week, we talked about cleaning and maintenance on your carry gun over time. If you happened to miss that article, be sure to check the link here. This week, I thought it would be fun to revisit my most used carry loadouts and what I have changed or kept the same from the initial article I wrote a while back. Let’s take a closer look at my updated personal carry.

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More S&W, Ruger Wheelgun Enhancement Parts From DL Sports

Dave Lauck, of DL Sports has been cranking out some new modifications for revolvers lately, some of which we’ve covered here at TFB. His latest projects include a newly contoured Enhanced Cylinder Release for Smith & Wesson wheelguns, as well as new Hard Use Sights for Ruger Redhawk and GP100 revolvers. The new Enhanced Cylinder Release is for use on S&W K, L, N, and X frame revolvers.

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Wheelgun Wednesday: Current Custom Options

Welcome back to Wheelgun Wednesday, where we love to discuss all things revolver-related!  This week, we’ll be taking a look at the current state of the revolver customization industry.  There’s quite a few good reasons to get your revolver worked on, such as:

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Concealed Carry Corner: Carry Gun Cleaning and Maintenance

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week, we discussed what to do when encountering the police. Ironically, I was pulled over just two days after the article went live. We ended up talking about the article and had a relatively good talk about people who carry around police. If you happened to miss that article, be sure to click the link here to learn more. This week I want to talk about cleaning guns and equipment to ensure everything is in perfect working order. Simply cleaning and inspecting your gear can alert you to any potential problems. Let’s take a closer look at carry gun cleaning and maintenance.

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Wheelgun Wednesday: The Pros And Cons Of Loose Cartridge Reloads

Welcome back to TFB’s Wheelgun Wednesday, where we cover any and all revolver topics under the sun. We’ve been gradually covering different styles of revolver reloading techniques and devices in our Pros & Cons series, and this week rounds that series off with Loose Cartridge Reloads. If you’re reading this, the odds are pretty good that you’ve shot a revolver at least once or twice, and I’m guessing that involved loading the cylinder one chamber at a time on a static shooting range. But what if you needed to reload that way to defend yourself or your loved ones? Let’s find out the Pros and Cons of Loose Cartridge Reloads.

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The Top 7 Handguns for Your Mom

If there are two things he knows, James Reeves KNOWS guns and moms. Looking for the perfect self-defense handgun for your mom? In this video, we’ve curated a list of the top handguns specifically chosen with moms in mind. From easy handling to compact designs, these firearms prioritize comfort, reliability, and safety.

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Concealed Carry Corner: What To Do Around Police

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week we looked at some of the best options for summer carry. If you missed that article, don’t stress and check it out by clicking the link here. This week, it’s all about interacting with police in various situations depending on what part of the country you live in. Throughout my travels and training with various police officers in training courses, I’ve heard a number of perspectives I’d like to share in an effort to help you guys out if you happened to get pulled over or stopped by police with a concealed handgun on your body. These tips are straight from my personal experience as well as police officers with field experience. Let’s take a closer look at what to do around police.

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