Personal Defense World December/January 2022 (Gun Buyer's Guide)

ONE of the best parts of being a gun writer is the opportunity to see and shoot guns before they’re released to the general public. This was the case last June when I was invited to Gunsite to preview a brand-new pistol from Mossberg. Called the MC2sc, it is a polymer-frame, striker-fired 9mm micro-compact that offers the concealed carrier an economical choice for an optics compatible, higher capacity pistol. Mossberg executives gave us the rundown on the new pistol during a classroom session at Gunsite. According to one official, sales of their MC1sc, single-stack subcompact carry gun were good until Sig screwed up their game plan with the P365. When Sig introduced the P365, back in 2019, it came with a really good trigger, night sights and a 12+1 capacity with…

Smith & Wesson has reentered the pump shotgun market with a big splash. The new M&P12 is a gun they designed from the ground up for home protection, and at first glance, it looks similar to the Kel-Tec KSG. Well, I am here to tell you it is nothing like the KSG, and I mean that in a good way. This bullpup scattergun is the one to beat. ▶ M&P12 DETAILS This S&W 12 gauge is a dual-tube-fed bullpup that can accept a combination of standard 2¾-inch, 3-inch Magnum and mini-shotshells (no adapter needed). That means you can load a total of 15 shells (2¾-inch), 13 (3-inch) and 23 (mini-shells). I know S&W listed 20+1 for the mini-shells, but photographer Andy Grossman was able to stuff each tube with 11. There is…

Looking through the history of firearms, I cannot find another point in time when there was as much defensive firepower available in such compact forms as there is today. Micro-compact pistols are widely available, and most gun manufacturers offer them. It’s just a matter of finding the one with the features you want at a price you’re willing to pay. To help you find the right pistol for your needs, I’ve pulled together a collection of recent introductions to this market. KIMBER R7 MAKO One of the latest entries to the high-capacity micro-pistol market, the R7 Mako offers a lot of features that are likely to attract your attention. Chambered in 9mm, this striker-fired pistol tucks 11 rounds into its flush-fitting magazine. An included 13-round magazine extends out of the bottom…

It is estimated that more than 17 million Americans hold a concealed carry weapon (CCW) permit and carry guns on them. I personally trust the passage from Robert A. Heinlein’s book, Beyond This Horizon: “An armed society is a polite society. Manners are good when one may have to back up his acts with his life.” This means that more people with guns makes a more polite society with less crime and less stupidity. When people are held accountable for their actions, they think twice about doing them. Obviously, the hope is that all gun-carrying Americans have the common sense to do things properly when carrying a gun, but the reality is that people sometimes just make bad choices. That is why I decided to make a guide for the do’s…

THE quality of firearms manufacturing over the last five to 10 years has improved by leaps and bounds. Metal finishes, design, accuracy, dependability and manufacturing processes continue to amaze me. Recently I had a chance to check out 3rd Gen Tactical’s entry-level AR rifle, the Liberty Carbine. I’ve been running ARs non-stop for about 25 years now, and I am familiar with what most companies call their “entry-level” guns. When I opened the box, I thought they accidentally sent me the wrong gun. The updated lower receiver, the fit and finish, the anodizing, the upgraded furniture and ambidextrous charging handle told me this was far superior to what most companies call their “basic” rifles. A ho-hum assignment suddenly changed from mundane to impressive. 3rd Gen Tactical is based in Logan, Utah,…

Aknife is a tool that can serve many purposes. Picking a knife designed for the wrong purpose can result in reduced capability. The best everyday carry (EDC) knife for personal defense will depend on your local laws, your training, skill level and environment, among other factors. Let’s take a look at three top new knives designed for personal defense—Am-tac Blades Northman; SOG Pentagon XR; and Spyderco Canis. We’re certain that one will meet your needs. ▶ NORTHMAN The Amtac Blades North-man is a fixed-blade knife designed for everyday carry (EDC). The Northman had its genesis in the personal requirements of former U.S. Navy SEAL Bill Rapier, founder and lead instructor of Amtac Shooting. Bill retired from the U.S. Navy after 20 years of service. His duty assignments included several years at SEAL Team 3…