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Articles by Dave Bahde
5.11 Marksman Shirt — Coverage Without Compromise
Working on my home range or teaching at Gunsite Academy spending eight hours or more on the range it becomes critical to protect yourself from sun exposure. Early on sunscreen seemed to do the trick, but the more time spent in the sun the more I cover up. Fabrics these days offer UPF 50+ protection with no need to “reapply” throughout the day. Mostly geared towards fisherman or boaters the colors tend to be on the bright side.
The P-10 Evolves for Duty Use
I have a very long history with CZ USA, starting in the early 2000s when they were initially introduced to the U.S. market in earnest. Working a part-time job at a local gun store, we became one of their early dealers. A fellow employee had significant experience with CZ and recommended some trigger time. One of our range guns turned into my daily practice platform. They were very impressive, especially for the price.
Review: Check-Mate UHC Prodigy Magazines
October 2nd, 2026 6 minute read Editor’s Note: For this Check-Mate UHC 9mm magazine review, the author received samples for testing from the company. The handgun used was a 1911 DS Prodigy that was loaned to the author by Springfield Armory. The 1911 is clearly a solid design — it would have to be to still be kicking here more than a century after its introduction. However, for those who want a more “modern” version of the classic — and with increased capacity — the “2011” is an interesting option.
Taurus GX2 TORO | On Target Magazine
By: Dave Bahde Photos By: Ben Battles & Dave Bahde Priced at only $299.99, the G2X TORO has proven to us to be one of the best values going today in a reliable and capable self-defense pistol. Do fuel prices and the general cost of goods have you hawkeyeing your bank account? This is a really good option. One lesson I learned while working and managing a retail gun store was that high-end sales represent a small fraction of total gun sales.
The New Springfield Prodigy 1911 DS 3.5 Inch
I had little interest in double stack 1911 designs. I always chalked up the concept to some desire to have your cake and eat it too by converting something meant for competition to lifesaving gear. As a fan of the traditional single stack 1911, I didn’t get the appeal of making it fatter and in a softer shooting caliber. There is also the issue of using single action pistols once again when the world has moved onto spongier designs more forgiving of small mistakes.
Which Rost Martin RM1X Is Right for You? Standard vs. Comp vs. Tactical
Rost Martin’s RM1X series comes as three separate pistols, not one, and picking the right one comes down to what you actually need the gun to do. All three share the same bones: a compact slide riding on a full-size grip module, nitrocarburized steel construction, an optics-ready cut with an included RMR plate, and Rost Martin’s signature grip texture with fully ambidextrous controls. What changes between them is the job each one is built for.
590 RM Chisel SBS – Entry Shotgun Perfection Original
One of the constraints/criticisms of shotguns is the use of a tubular magazine. They can be slow and cumbersome, with a limited capacity. Along with the process, the capacity is dictated by barrel length, especially on defense guns. You want your defense shotgun, pump or semi to be shorter, handier, and lighter, not a fence pole. The box-fed magazine keeps capacity up and length down. Mossberg has taken that to a completely different level.
EOTCH Vudu 4-12×36 FFP – Tested
Traditional optics get bigger with increased magnification. Advancements in glass construction and manufacturing have certainly helped. However, generally, more magnification means longer scopes, unless you are Eotech. Introduced in 2017, their Vudu short scopes changed that equation. Packed into a tight package, these FFP (First Focal Plane) scopes have become favorites amongst LE, military, and competitors alike for their rugged reliability and short size.
EOTech EXPS3 Vs EXPS3 HD
This post was originally published on this site. The EXPS3 has been around for a long time, it’s really EOTech’s legacy sight. While other versions using different batteries, with or without NV capability, and button placement are available, the most common duty version is the EXPS3. Most common amongst both the military and LE user it remains a first choice amongst professional and recreational user alike. The EXPS3 has been awarded the CCO for USSOCOM and sees wide use to this day.
EOTech EXPS3 Vs EXPS3 HD
The EXPS3 has been around for a long time, it’s really EOTech’s legacy sight. While other versions using different batteries, with or without NV capability, and button placement are available, the most common duty version is the EXPS3. Most common amongst both the military and LE user it remains a first choice amongst professional and recreational user alike. The EXPS3 has been awarded the CCO for USSOCOM and sees wide use to this day.
CNC Firearms Dresses Up the HK Mark 23 for a Limited-Edition Bellum .45 ACP
In 1996, the first HK Mark 23 pistols were delivered to the U.S. Special Operations Command. It was the first .45 ACP pistol to be used by American military forces since the 1911. The model is one of the most thoroughly tested handguns in history and has exceeded the most stringent operational requirements for combat handguns. For this reason, Custom & Collectable Firearms is offering a limited-edition run of HK Mark 23 Bellum pistols in .45 ACP.
FALCO Doubles Down on Leather with Two New Multi-Fit Holsters Original
Let’s be honest, finding a quality leather holster usually means choosing between handcrafted craftsmanship and having enough cash left over to actually buy ammo. FALCO Holsters wants to make that decision a little easier. The company has expanded its popular Multi-Fit lineup with two new leather carry options: the AM03 Simple Leather IWB/OWB Holster and the DM04 Vertical Leather Shoulder Holster.
Simplicity Upgraded: Vortex Optics Releases the Crossfire II
It has been eight years, but Vortex Optics has upgraded its Crossfire red dot line with the Crossfire II. One of the company’s most popular red dots, the upgrades to the Crossfire bring features like motion activation, solar capabilities (select models), green dot options, and more. It does it all in the same small package as the original, with low and lower 1/3 co-witness mounting options.
Mossberg’s 990 SPX Magpul — Tactical Shotgun Nirvana
This post was originally published on this site. Mossberg’s latest, the 990 SPX is the combination of two of Mossberg’s latest successes, the 940 Pro and 990 Aftershock. Running the 940 Pro since they arrived, it remains one of my favorite full-sized (18.5-inch) tactical shotguns. The Aftershock, while useful, was begging for a stock. Using a 14.75-inch barrel keeps it long enough to function properly, yet short enough to make a difference where needed.
Rugged Suppressors Oculus22 — It’s Not Your Daddy’s Can
This post was originally published on this site. Rimfire suppressors have long been popular, maybe the most popular ever. Those designed for .22 LR can be made from aluminum keeping them light and cheap. Times have changed though, and “rimfire” suppressors are tackling some centerfires calibers like the 5.7mm in both pistols and rifles. You are also seeing them used on .22 Magnum, .17 HRM rifles making aluminum less than your best choice.
CNC Firearms Presents the Magnum Research Desert Eagle “Ember Reaper”
If you are reading this, you are likely a shooter and know that .50 AE is a big round for a handgun. So, it is helpful to have a big handgun, like a Desert Eagle, to handle the beast. I mean, only a crazy person would shoot .50 AE from something like a derringer. Fortunately, we live in the same timeline as Magnum Research. There are many variations of the Desert Eagle, and now Custom & Collectable Firearms offers a limited-edition “Ember Reaper” model.
KelTec SUB-SDP: “Nub Sub” Is Small, Weird and Exactly What We’d Expect
If you’ve spent any time around KelTec firearms, you already know the company’s design meetings probably begin with the question, “What if we made it even weirder?” More often than not, the answer ends up being surprisingly practical. Enter the new KelTec SUB-SDP, affectionately nicknamed the “Nub Sub.” Imagine someone took the popular SUB2000, shrunk it down, and turned it into a compact 9mm braced pistol. The result is one of the most interesting personal-defense firearms to arrive this year.
Hair Jigs: One of Fishing’s Oldest and Most Effective Lures
One of the oldest fishing lures ever created is the hair jig. Typically made with a lead jig head, nylon thread, and a natural or synthetic body material, hair jigs have been catching fish for generations. Despite their age, they remain one of the deadliest and most versatile lures an angler can fish. Fly anglers understand the importance of “matching the hatch,” and hair jig fishermen know just how easy it is to imitate the natural forage fish are feeding on.
Rugged Suppressors Oculus22 — It’s Not Your Daddy’s Can
Rimfire suppressors have long been popular, maybe the most popular ever. Those designed for .22 LR can be made from aluminum keeping them light and cheap. Times have changed though, and “rimfire” suppressors are tackling some centerfires calibers like the 5.7mm in both pistols and rifles. You are also seeing them used on .22 Magnum, .17 HRM rifles making aluminum less than your best choice.
From Luxury SUV to Overland Beast: 2023 Lexus GX460 Build
Who guts the interior of a relatively brand-new Lexus GX460, and then rips out the suspension? I’m sure my local Lexus dealer was asking that question when I pulled in for my last service appointment. Let me back up a minute here. Last year, my wife and I decided to upgrade to a nicer, more capable vehicle. I really love the 5th Gen. Toyota 4Runners, but the Lexus GX460 has two extra cylinders, is a lot more comfortable inside, and has rear HVAC vents.
How Long Does It Last? Food Safety After a Power Outage
In the wake of disaster or crisis, food safety is crucial. It’s bad enough to lose power, but contracting a foodborne illness is just adding insult to injury. This is especially true if you don’t have running water, either. The moment power is cut to your fridge and freezer, the inside of those appliances will begin to slowly warm. Once the interior temperature of the refrigerator hits 40F, the food in your refrigerator will start to deteriorate in just a couple of hours.
Mossberg’s 990 SPX Magpul — Tactical Shotgun Nirvana
Mossberg’s latest, the 990 SPX is the combination of two of Mossberg’s latest successes, the 940 Pro and 990 Aftershock. Running the 940 Pro since they arrived, it remains one of my favorite full-sized (18.5-inch) tactical shotguns. The Aftershock, while useful, was begging for a stock. Using a 14.75-inch barrel keeps it long enough to function properly, yet short enough to make a difference where needed.
Rezvani Dune: This 800-HP Off-Road Supercar Doesn’t Care Where the Road Ends
For decades, supercars have lived pampered lives. They spend weekends posing outside expensive restaurants, cautiously approaching speed bumps at impossible angles and panicking at the sight of a gravel driveway. The all-new Rezvani Dune would like absolutely nothing to do with that lifestyle. Instead, Rezvani Motors took the idea of an exotic supercar, threw a shovel full of sand at it, and asked a simple question: What happens when the pavement disappears?
Smith & Wesson Doubles Down With New M&P15 AXE .300 Blackout Pistol & SBR Original
Suppressors have gone from niche range toys to mainstream must-haves, and manufacturers are designing firearms around them instead of simply threading a barrel and calling it a day. Smith & Wesson’s latest additions to the M&P15 AXE family do exactly that, introducing a pair of compact .300 Blackout guns purpose-built for life with a can attached. Meet the new M&P15 AXE Pistol and M&P15 AXE SBR.
Zero Hesitation: Leupold’s New LCO Pro F2
Leupold has built its reputation on rugged, no-nonsense optics, and the new LCO Pro F2 looks to continue that tradition. Designed for shooters who demand speed, durability, and absolute confidence in their gear, the latest red dot sight combines an all-new optical system with an updated housing engineered for hard use. Whether it’s destined for a competition rifle, patrol carbine, or defensive shotgun, the Leupold LCO Pro F2 is built to perform when every second counts.
Axil CRX Ear Pro Lets You Customize the Fit and Expand the Features
No stranger to top-notch ear pro, Axil has released the CRX, an expandable system ideal for a variety of disciplines. The latest earbuds are customizable for the best fit, delivering maximum protection while providing 6x amplification of safe sounds. Likewise, they are expandable to fit your operational requirements. Axil boasts that this is the most “acoustically refined electronic earbud” the company has ever made.
Auto-Ordnance’s ‘Land of the Free’ 1911 Celebrates 250 Years of American Independence Original
Some commemorative guns spend their lives behind glass, admired from a distance and only occasionally dusted off. The new Auto-Ordnance “Land of the Free” 1911 wasn’t built for that fate. Sure, it’s packed with enough patriotic engraving to make Uncle Sam nod in approval, but underneath all that custom artwork is still a full-featured .45 ACP 1911 ready to hit the range.
Leupold Unveils the New LCO Pro F2 Red Dot Sight Original
Leupold & Stevens, Inc., maker of some of the world’s most rugged, lightweight, and crystal-clear sport optics, has announced the launch of its all-new LCO Pro F2 red dot sight. Built for shooters, competitors, law enforcement professionals, and anyone who refuses to compromise, the sight combines exceptional optical clarity, rugged durability, and purpose-built features in a full-sized red dot optic.
SK Customs Conqueror Series Highlights the Legendary Julius Caesar
Few historical figures maintain the notoriety of Julius Caesar. A skilled commander and politician, his military strategies are still studied today. For this reason, SK Customs adds Julius Caesar to its Conqueror Series of custom 1911 pistols. Built on another legend—the Colt 1911—the Julius Caesar will only have a run of 200 pieces. So, you want to get while the getting is good. Chambered in .38 Super, the Conqueror Series is built on the legendary Colt 1911 Government model.
Rugged Axial Suppressor: Gas Forward, Not in Your — Now with a Limited-Time $250 Promotion
Suppressors are getting quieter, tougher and smarter, but one challenge has stubbornly remained—gas blowback. The Rugged Suppressors Axial tackles that problem head-on while maintaining the rugged durability the company has become known for. Better yet, for a limited time, buyers can score a $250 Rugged eStore gift code with a qualifying purchase.
Rugged Suppressors Axial Review: Low Back Pressure Without Sacrificing Sound Original
Suppressors trap excess gas, or at least did, then re-direct it through some sort of baffle system suppressing the sound. This idea is at the heart of rifle suppression and has been since their invention. The degree at which gas is trapped or diverted, and where has always determined three things, excess gas at the shooter, increased back pressure, and sound levels. The quieter the can the more back pressure and greater excess gas. Finding a happy medium has always been the key.
5.11 Launches Performance-Driven Medical Scrubs for Healthcare Professionals
5.11 Tactical has expanded its Professional Services lineup with the introduction of a new collection of premium medical scrubs designed specifically for nurses and frontline healthcare professionals. The new apparel line builds on the company’s long history of developing purpose-built clothing and gear for professionals working in demanding environments.
Happy 250th, America, from Wilson Combat with a Limited-Edition 1911 Series
Independence Day is typically celebrated on a single day each year, with some anticipatory celebrations leading up to the 4th. However, the 250th anniversary of America is much bigger than one day, and Wilson Combat gets it. So, for this year’s momentous occasion, the company has released two pistols in a limited-edition commemorative 1911 series. The 1911 is America’s pistol, and Wilson Combat has a well-known history with the platform.
Leupold Lights Up the Mark 4HD With New Illuminated Reticles Original
Some gear launches reinvent the wheel. Others simply listen to the people behind the trigger. The latest update to the Leupold Mark 4HD family falls squarely into the second category and that’s usually where the magic happens. Leupold has officially expanded its popular Mark 4HD riflescope lineup by adding illuminated versions of its highly regarded PR2-MOA, PR2-MIL, and PR3-MIL reticles.
IWI IWS Suppressor Line: Built for Hard Use, Designed for the Mission
Silencer. Suppressor. Can. What’s in a can? What does a company consider when building a suppressor line? Most importantly, does that fit with what you need from the silencer? Yes, we did just use all three common names for silencers in the opening paragraph. The year 2026 has been an interesting one in the firearms space, especially in National Firearms Act controlled items. None more so than silencers, the most popular item by far.
EXPS3 HD — EOTech’s Legacy Holographic Sight Reborn Original
EOTech’s holographic sights have been around for many years, it was one of the first duty “Red Dots” I deployed. Founded in 1995, my introduction came at SHOT show in 1996. Quite the hit, the world was introduced to the Holographic Weapon Sight and seemed to like it. Many mistakenly called it an RDS (Red Dot Sight) resulting in improper use. While we know better now it was common to see the dot as nothing more than a replacement for the front sight.
Shooting 101: Picking the Best Gun for Your Next Training Course
This post was originally published on this site. As a Gunsite instructor, I see all kinds of different guns. We get occasional LE professionals with duty guns. However, the vast majority are lawfully armed citizens bringing every conceivable firearm, many of which are unsuitable for that class or their skill level. Some can run anything; most cannot, turning a fun class into a painful ordeal.
Shooting 101: Picking the Best Gun for Your Next Training Course
As a Gunsite instructor, I see all kinds of different guns. We get occasional LE professionals with duty guns. However, the vast majority are lawfully armed citizens bringing every conceivable firearm, many of which are unsuitable for that class or their skill level. Some can run anything; most cannot, turning a fun class into a painful ordeal. Almost every class has one or two people suffering through two days before they listen to the instructor and change guns. Don’t be that person.
8 Step-By-Step Tips to Clean Your AR
This post was originally published on Athlon Outdoors. It seems obvious, but many shooters miss the primary reason to break down and clean their rifle after any reasonable use. Rifles are mechanical devices; they can and do break. Tearing your rifle down is as much about inspection as it is cleaning. This is true for anyone, but more so for professionals or when dealing with a rifle specifically tasked with self-defense.
8 Step-By-Step Tips to Clean Your AR
It seems obvious, but many shooters miss the primary reason to break down and clean their rifle after any reasonable use. Rifles are mechanical devices; they can and do break. Tearing your rifle down is as much about inspection as it is cleaning. This is true for anyone, but more so for professionals or when dealing with a rifle specifically tasked with self-defense. Your rifle is a life-saving tool; it must work to perform that function, and regular maintenance ensures that.
Why One-Handed Shooting Is a Critical Skill Most Gun Owners Never Practice
This post was originally published on this site. Over the years, my opinion on one-handed shooting has changed. As a cop, I figured the need was minimal. As a SWAT officer, I thought it was a waste of time. Age, coupled with training and teaching experience, along with a recognition of reality, has shifted my perspective. Unfortunately, for most people, it remains one of the most critical skills they will never practice.
Why One-Handed Shooting Is a Critical Skill Most Gun Owners Never Practice
Over the years, my opinion on one-handed shooting has changed. As a cop, I figured the need was minimal. As a SWAT officer, I thought it was a waste of time. Age, coupled with training and teaching experience, along with a recognition of reality, has shifted my perspective. Unfortunately, for most people, it remains one of the most critical skills they will never practice.
Bringing the Right Training Gear to Your Next Gun Camp
This post was originally published on this site. I have attended hundreds of hours of formal training with various weapons systems. So, I have learned a thing or two about preparation for your next gun camp adventure. Whether you are using a proven or new system, there are some important things to work out before you get there. You want to maximize training, which means taking a gun that works, but maybe more importantly, gear that supports it.
When It Comes To Self Defense, Pick The Best Tool for The Job
This post was originally published on this site. With all the information being thrown at gun buyers today, it’s easy to get buried in the noise. There are endless choices, constant marketing, and a steady stream of opinions online, much of it not particularly useful. The good news is the firearms industry is producing a lot of genuinely solid products right now. Most modern firearms will work. The bigger question is whether they will work for you.
Bringing the Right Training Gear to Your Next Gun Camp
I have attended hundreds of hours of formal training with various weapons systems. So, I have learned a thing or two about preparation for your next gun camp adventure. Whether you are using a proven or new system, there are some important things to work out before you get there. You want to maximize training, which means taking a gun that works, but maybe more importantly, gear that supports it.
Running A Pistol Slide: Clam Shell, Sling Shot, or Slide Release? Or Who Cares?
I have heard experts argue about the best method of running the slide on a semi-automatic pistol since my department took my revolver away some three decades ago. Not surprisingly, nothing has changed today. Same arguments, same experts, largely the same guns, and just as meaningless. Whether to get students through a class, old school dogma, or just plain ignorance/laziness, it’s really the same old stuff. You would think that in 30 years, there would be some progression.
The Sig Sauer P226-XCARRY Legion Is Designed to Conceal
This post was originally published on this site. Sig Sauer’s P226 SAO has been a workhorse for me over the years. Carrying single-action 1911s for years, they remain the most familiar. My pistol is still used regularly after thousands of rounds of hard use. A Sig Sauer Pro slide has been added, as well as a Romeo Pro X RDS and Grey Guns flat trigger, making it pretty close to a Legion X. It remains a favorite, but a shorter barrel would be nice for concealed carry.
The Sig Sauer P226-XCARRY Legion Is Designed to Conceal
Sig Sauer’s P226 SAO has been a workhorse for me over the years. Carrying single-action 1911s for years, they remain the most familiar. My pistol is still used regularly after thousands of rounds of hard use. A Sig Sauer Pro slide has been added, as well as a Romeo Pro X RDS and Grey Guns flat trigger, making it pretty close to a Legion X. It remains a favorite, but a shorter barrel would be nice for concealed carry. Sig Sauer took care of that with the new P226-XCARRY Legion SAO.
Assessing the Threat: How to Choose the Right Defensive Firearm for Your Real-World Needs
This post was originally published on this site. With all the information being thrown at gun buyers today, it’s easy to get buried in the noise. There are endless choices, constant marketing, and a steady stream of opinions online, much of it not particularly useful. The good news is the firearms industry is producing a lot of genuinely solid products right now. Most modern firearms will work. The bigger question is whether they will work for you.
Assessing the Threat: How to Choose the Right Defensive Firearm for Your Real-World Needs
With all the information being thrown at gun buyers today, it’s easy to get buried in the noise. There are endless choices, constant marketing, and a steady stream of opinions online, much of it not particularly useful. The good news is the firearms industry is producing a lot of genuinely solid products right now. Most modern firearms will work. The bigger question is whether they will work for you.
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