Ruger Announces New Rifle: Ruger American Rimfire

I have a place in my heart for the Ruger American Rifle, I own one chambered in 30.06 and it can punch quarters at 100 yards and for 300 bucks that’s hard to beat. I just saw this out on the website as I go out there time to time to create wish lists and it was out of the blue but Ruger is now going to make that same Ruger American Rifle capable of accepting existing Ruger magazines chambered n 22LR and 22WMR. I know when they come out I will be picking one up. Read the press release below:

“Introducing the Ruger American Rimfire Series
August 29, 2013
Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. (NYSE: RGR) announces the release of the Ruger American Rimfire™ bolt-action rifle. The 100% American-made Ruger American Rimfire™ builds on the enormous success of the centerfire Ruger American Rifle®. With many of the standard Ruger American Rifle® features, this new line also combines several design innovations from the popular 10/22® rimfire rifle. This combination, along with the rifle’s adaptability, will appeal to all bolt-action enthusiasts – young or old, novice or experienced. The new line consists of four models – full-sized (22" barrel/13.75" length of pull) and compact (18"/12.5" length of pull) models, both of which are available in either .22 LR or .22 Magnum.

"The new American Rimfire series really ups the ante for performance in rimfire rifles," remarked Mike Fifer, President and CEO. "With proven technologies and features from the centerfire Ruger American Rifle®, the bolt-action rimfire models are sure to deliver accuracy, durability and value to consumers," he concluded.

Each model in the line includes two interchangeable stock modules that provide comb height options for scope or iron sight use. Standard models come with long length of pull modules, while compact models come with short length of pull modules. By simply removing the rear sling swivel stud, stock modules can be changed in seconds. All four stock modules are completely interchangeable across all models and are available at ShopRuger.com.

Models chambered in .22 LR feature the detachable, flush-mounted 10/22® BX-1 10-round rotary magazine and accept all 10/22® magazines, including the BX-25® and BX-25®x2. Models chambered in .22 Magnum use the detachable, flush-mounted JMX-1 9-round rotary magazine. The easy-to-use 10/22®-style extended magazine release provides smooth, no-fuss magazine removal. The 60-degree bolt provides ample scope clearance, while an easy-to-use, receiver-mounted bolt release allows the bolt to be readily removed without requiring a pull of the trigger, a unique safety feature among rimfire, bolt-action rifles.

The Ruger American Rimfire™ shares many of the features that made the centerfire Ruger American Rifle® popular among hunters and shooters alike. It features a Ruger Marksman Adjustable™ trigger and patent-pending Power Bedding® integral bedding block system that positively locates the receiver and free-floats the barrel, making these rifles true performers at the range and in the field.

Additional features include a satin blued, target-crowned, hammer-forged barrel that results in ultra-precise rifling for exceptional accuracy, longevity and easy cleaning and Williams™ fiber optic front sight and 10/22®-style adjustable, "V" slot, folding-leaf rear sight. A 3/8" rimfire scope base is machined into the receiver, and is drilled and tapped for Weaver® #12 bases (not included).

Ruger American Rimfire™ rifles feature a durable composite stock with front and rear swivel studs. All models have a suggested retail price of $329.

Here is the Ruger Website Link To The Firearm: http://www.ruger.com/products/americanRimfire/models.html

Here is the Specs of the Rifle:

FEATURES: Modular Stock System Rotary Magazine Magazine Release Power Bedding® Ruger Marksman Adjustable™ Trigger Lightweight Stock Tang Safety Hammer-Forged Barrel Scope Base Bolt Sights

Quinn Strikes Again: Illinois Now Required to Have Background Checks On All Firearm Sales

I was minding my own business out on AR15.com when I stumbled on this and wasn’t even aware. I grew up in Illinois but man am I glad that I live in Missouri now. Quinn strikes again… Read more in the article below:

Link to Article: http://news.yahoo.com/illinois-expands-background-checks-gun-purchases-015848692.html

Yahoo New Snippet:

“Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed a gun-control measure into law on Sunday that expands background checks to cover all firearms purchases in the state, closing what he said was a loophole that exempted gun sales between private parties.

The new law also requires all gun owners to report any lost or stolen firearms to local police within 72 hours.“

Read More in the Link Above

Gun Grabber Alert: Federal Court Upholds Obama/Holder Gun Registration Scheme

Just got an article from a fellow blog follower about a case that was recently upheld by a federal court about notifying the ATF if firearms are sold online from different states and are above 22 caliber they must let the ATF know. You might want to take a few seconds to read this article:

“On May 31, a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit upheld the Obama administration policy that requires federally licensed firearms retailers in states bordering Mexico to report multiple sales of certain semi-automatic rifles. The case, National Shooting Sports Foundation v. Jones, was brought by two NRA-backed firearms retailers and the National Shooting Sports Foundation acting on behalf of its members in the Southwest.

The requirement imposed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives forces all licensed firearm dealers in California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas to report all sales of two or more semi-automatic rifles within five consecutive business days, if the rifles are larger than .22 caliber and use detachable magazines.

In its decision, the panel argued that ATF’s use of “demand letters” to seek this information is legitimate, even though the law only allows ATF to issue letters demanding “information required to be kept” under the Gun Control Act—not information such as action type that is not “required to be kept.” The panel also held that the reporting requirement is “limited,” even though it applies to every licensed firearm retailer in four large states.

Two other NRA-supported cases challenging the registration scheme are still on appeal in the Fifth and Tenth Circuits. “

Ruger To Create 450 Jobs

Ruger is opening up a new plant in Mayodan, South Carolina creating approximately 450 jobs. They are buying an old plant and turning it into a new gun manufacturing facility. They will be investing an approximate 27 million in the purchase. Read more in the newspaper article from fox below.

Article Link: http://myfox8.com/2013/08/13/mccrory-to-make-economic-announcement-in-rockingham-county/

The Nano’s Smaller Brother: Beretta Pico

Man, I saw the latest Guns & Ammo magazine and had to read more about this gun. It’s scheduled to be available in Q4 and I think it’ll be good to haul around when it’s hot or make a good nightstand gun. I really have a thing for stainless slides just so they hold up better being in an out of holsters and just being packed around. This little guy is no thicker than a deck of cards. The polymer bottom comes in several colors and it actually has real sights which I think is a plus for a gun this size. See the link below to Beretta’s website they have a pretty cool video up.

Product Image:

Product Link: http://www.berettausa.com/pico/

Product Description:

Pico 
Super thin, ultra concealable, and easy to configure, the Beretta Pico sets a new standard for the micro compact carry pistol. The thinnest .380 auto made…by a full millimeter…the snag-free Pico’s slide and frame is a true 18 mm at their widest point. The grip frame, sights, and caliber (go from a .380 to a .32 by changing the barrel) are all simple to modify. Extremely soft shooting with a double action trigger, the Pico is easy to control with its smooth, tip-to-parallel, straight line action. The removable, serialized sub-chassis and modular frame feature simple disassembly for easy cleaning and customizing. The modular chassis can accommodate a Lasermax Laser frame and be customized with a selection of colored frames. Even the dovetail quick-change sights can be adjusted or replaced by the user. Light, durable, and easy to draw from concealment, the Pico brings all the reliability and quality of a Beretta to bear on its standing as the leader of a new generation of concealed carry firearms.

Specifications:

Overall Length: 5.1 in/ 130 mm

Barrel Length : 2.7 in/ 70 mm

Overall Width : .725 in / 18 mm

Grip Width : .725 in/ 18 mm

Overall Height : 4.0 in/ 100 mm

Sight Radius : 3.3 in/ 84 mm

Weight unloaded : 11.5 oz/ 325 grams with empty magazine, approximate

Magpul Releases 40 Round PMAGS

I finally got to snatch some of these from Cabela’s online, other than that I haven’t seen them online but a handful of times. They were selling them at MSRP price but hey at least I didn’t have to pay a premium. Better snatch em up fast before the gun grabbers want to take these too. Product description from Magpul’s site:

Product Link: http://store.magpul.com/product/MAG233/PMAG

Product Description:

“The next-generation PMAG 40 GEN M3 is a 40-round 5.56×45 NATO (.223 Remington) polymer magazine for AR15/M4 compatible weapons. Along with expanded feature set and compatibility, the GEN M3 incorporates new material technology and manufacturing processes for enhanced strength, durability, and reliability to exceed rigorous military performance specifications.

Modified internal and external geometry also permits operation with a wide range of non Colt-spec platforms such as the HK® 416 and MR556A1, M27 IAR, British SA-80, FN® SCAR™ MK 16/16S, and others. A redesigned bolt catch notch in the rear of the magazine provides increased bolt catch clearance, while an over-travel stop on the spine helps ensure the magazine will not over-insert on compatible weapons.

Similar to the MOE PMAG, the GEN M3 features a long-life stainless steel spring, four-way anti-tilt follower and constant-curve internal geometry for reliable feeding, and simple tool-less disassembly to ease cleaning. In addition, an included pop-off Impact/Dust Cover can optionally be used to minimize debris intrusion and protect against potential damage during storage and transit. Low profile ribs and new aggressive front and rear texture gives positive control of the GEN M3 in all environments, and a paint pen dot matrix has been added to the bottom panel of the body to allow easy marking by the end user for identification. The new, easy to disassemble flared floorplate aids extraction and handling of the magazine while providing improved drop protection, but is slightly slimmer than before for better compatibility with tight double and triple magazine pouches.

Made in U.S.A.”

 

Magpul Files Patent Infringement

I had heard about this over the wire so decided to do some digging and found a news update on Magpul’s site. This text is taking directly from their site

“25-Jul-13 13:29

MAGPUL SUES FOUR MAGAZINE MANUFACTURERS FOR PATENT INFRINGEMENT

BOULDER, Colorado — July 25, 2013

Magpul Industries Corp announced today that it has filed patent infringement lawsuits against four companies for offering for sale, selling, and distributing magazines for AR15/M16 compatible weapons in violation of Magpul’s patents. The company’s lawsuits allege infringement of Utility Pat. No. 8,069,601 for a novel ammunition magazine, in addition to numerous Magpul design patents.

The lawsuits, filed in United States District Court, Colorado, provide another example of Magpul’s dedication to protecting its valuable brand while sending a warning to others attempting to infringe on our innovations. “These patents exemplify the industrial design-focused spirit at Magpul, which drives us to create novel solutions that enhance user experience with our products,” said Duane Liptak, Director of Product Management and Marketing for Magpul Industries. “People who use Magpul products have high expectations and a great deal of trust regarding the value, quality, and amount of thought put into every design we release. As such, we cannot allow others to misappropriate the patented technology that helps us generate that consumer confidence and trust.”

The lawsuits are the largest and most significant to date brought by Magpul, and are part of the company’s ongoing proactive efforts to combat the unlawful production, distribution, and sale of products that infringe on its valuable intellectual property rights.”

Starbucks: Bring Your Gun To Starbucks Day!

Today is Bring your gun to Starbucks Day as put together by a firearm advocacy group which has more than 234,000 likes and setup as a public event on July 29. More than 3,000 plan to attend. Thought it was interesting as both of my sisters texted me earlier this morning to let me know so it peaked my interest enough to go out there and see what it was all about. Here is the full article in case you are interested.

Link: http://mashable.com/2013/08/09/bring-your-gun-starbucks/

Overview of Illinois Concealed Carry

NRA Legislative branch released an overview of the new Illinois CCW law that has taken effect recently. It highlights some of the FAQ’s that everyone will have. If you have any additional questions, you can go to the Illinois State Police website. They have a FAQ section setup. See below for more info:

Link to Article: http://dailycaller.com/2013/07/13/nra-ila-on-illinois-overview-of-the-new-concealed-carry-law/

Link to ISP Website FAQ Section: http://www.isp.state.il.us/firearms/ccw/ccw-faq.cfm

Article Highlights:

“Concealed Carry Licensing:

• Five-year concealed carry permits will be issued to Illinois residents at least 21 years of age with a valid FOID card 90 days after a qualified application is submitted.
• Illinois will not recognize carry licenses or permits from other states at this time; however, non-resident Illinois Concealed Carry Licenses will be available with an increased fee of $300 if the interested applicant’s state’s concealed carry license laws are “substantially similar” to Illinois’. Illinois State Police must first establish which elements of other state’s permits meet the “substantially similar” requirement.

To qualify for a license to conceal carry, an Illinois resident must:

• Pay a $150 fee;
• Be subjected to fingerprinting for an additional fee in order to avoid delayed processing of one’s application;
• Undergo 16 hours of training (which includes a “live fire” component). Eight hours of prior training may be credited if it is “approved by the Department [of State Police] and recognized under the laws of another state or if the applicant is an active, retired, or honorably discharged member of the Armed Forces.”

An applicant will be disqualified if

Convicted or found guilty in Illinois or any other state of:

• 2 or more violations related to driving while under the influence of alcohol, other drug or drugs, intoxicating compound or compounds, or any combination thereof, within the last 5 years.
• A misdemeanor involving the use or threat of physical force or violence to any person within the last 5 years.
• Applicant is the subject of a pending arrest warrant, prosecution, or proceeding for an offense or action that could lead to disqualification.
• Applicant has been in a residential or court-ordered treatment for alcoholism, alcohol detoxification, or drug treatment within the last 5 years.
• Any law enforcement agency may object to the issuance of a license to an otherwise qualified applicant on the basis of reasonable suspicion that the applicant presents a danger to self or others or is a threat to public safety. Such an objection sends the application for review by the Concealed Carry Licensing Board, which consists of a total of 7 judicial, law enforcement, and mental health professionals appointed by the Governor. The Board generally will issue a decision in 30 days as to whether it has determined, by a preponderance of the evidence, if the applicant is eligible or ineligible for a license.

Training:

• HB 183 mandates that the Illinois State Police begin approval of certified firearms instructors and firearm training courses within 60 days of enactment. At that time, ISP will provide a registry of instructors and approved classes.

Preemption:

• The language of HB 183 contains comprehensive preemption of handgun and handgun ammunition-related local ordinances for anyone with a valid FOID card, and preemption of “assault weapon” bans enacted by July 19th (see here for more information). Regulation of laws relating to the concealed carrying of handguns is now reserved to the state.
• Illinois law now contains increased protection for those who are traveling with firearms, since the preemption of local firearms ordinances applies to all individuals with a valid FOID card who are transporting firearms in compliance with all state regulations. A personal vehicle is also a safe haven for transport of firearms by non-Illinois residents not otherwise prohibited from possession.

Storage:

• In addition to the safe harbor found in one’s vehicle, licensees who wish to store their firearm in the trunk of their vehicle while visiting an otherwise prohibited location may exit their vehicle while in the parking lot in possession of the firearm for the purposes of storing it in the trunk. They may also store the firearm in the passenger compartment of their vehicle in some sort of container as long as either the vehicle or container is locked and the firearm remains out of plain view.

Prohibited Places:

Under HB 183 there is an extensive list of places where carrying firearms is prohibited, even with a concealed handgun license. Three or more violations will result in a permanent revocation of license. The list of prohibited places includes, but is not limited to:

• Schools and child care facilities
• Colleges and Universities
• Courthouses
• Libraries
• Government buildings
• Public playgrounds
• Public parks (trails excluded)
• Bars (and any restaurant deriving more than half of its profits from alcohol)
• Public transportation
• Permitted public gatherings, such as festivals or parades
• Museums
• Stadiums
• Zoos

”

ATF Shooting Weekend

Recently I had a few friends out on my farm to do some shooting. I had talked about some projects that I had going on mainly the shooting scenarios and you will see that I have some of them complete. I setup a little pistol range where we could practice drawing, firing from half height cover, firing at different angles, firing from a window, and firing from a corner. I think the guys had fun. I use steel plate targets that I welded myself from old scrap metal around the farm and welded them onto old sign posts. I use standard marking paint to repaint them after every session so that you can confirm via a black mark where you hit on the target and how consistent and accurate you are when shooting.

I also setup a long range for plinking with some of the 22 rifles / pistols we had, a 100 yard target, and a small gopher for super accurate shots. There’s a couple cool videos and one that we placed a Natty Light next to the muzzle break of the 50 cal and it blew it to shreds. I think I will have to link them via youtube so stay tuned on that front. Afterwards we grilled some BBQ’d some pork chops and pork steak along with some baked beans and potato salad. One of my buddies is a cigar connoisseur so I had to partake in the festivities to round out the ATF weekend.

Here is a list of the firearms we shot:

Pistols:

• Beretta 92 FS 9MM
• Beretta Neos 22LR
• CZ 75 SP01 Black Shadow 9MM
• CZ 52 7.62×25 Tokarev
• Ruger SR9C 9MM

Rifles:

• Aresenal AK-74 5.45×39
• DSG FAL .308
• H&K MP5 SD 22LR
• Mosin Nagant 91/30 7.62x54R
• Savage Model 93 .17HMR
• Serbu .50 Cal
• Stag Model 3 5.56
• Steyr M95 8MMx56R

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