M1 Garand vs. M1941 Johnson Rifle Debate

Even positive changes can be hard to accept. Long before the M1 Garand rifle was in widespread service in the US military, it had its share of detractors. A number of these objectors simply disagreed with the Army’s decision to adopt a semi-automatic rifle at all. They argued that the...

By Tom Laemlein •

Truck Guns Part 3: Defense Fueled by Vodka

The truck gun can be virtually any firearm, but to truly assess the multitude of modern applicable firearms as an effective defensive platform, a required evaluation necessitates the most offensive, the AK. The AK has earned two reputations in the 21st Century; the first is a reputation for simpl...

By Toby M •

First Round Hit: Best First Pistol

The subject of whether to use a pistol is not the focus of this article; let us assume we have decided to start with the handgun instead of a shotgun or rifle for the sake of debate. The best approach is to establish some basic standards for the modern pistol as a defensive weapon. The first ques...

By Toby M •

A Summary History of Firearm Ammunition

Firearm ammunition has been a fundamental component of both the evolution of firearms and the progression of military, law enforcement, and civilian practices throughout history.

By Alan Chwick •

Three Low-Key EDC Bags by Vertx

When it comes to concealed carry, most of us immediately think about on-body setups—appendix, strong-side, etc. But off-body carry — if executed and managed properly, ensuring you retain control of your firearm at all times — has a legitimate place in the conversation, especially for those ...

By Dylan Casey •

Concealed Carry Corner: Top Problems When Carrying Concealed

Welcome back to another edition of Concealed Carry Corner. Last week, we talked about when avoiding is the best possible thing you can do. If you happened to miss that article and want to check it out, be sure to click the link here  to check it out. This week, I want to really look at some ...

By Matt E •

REVIEW: Griffin Armament MK2 11.5” CQB

I’ve been a fan of Griffin Armament for a while, having used their M2 iron sights for years, enjoying the quality of their silencers, and, more recently, appreciating significant value in their optics line after reviewing the 1-10x Mil-R SFP LPVO. Perhaps I’ve been working backwards, but it m...

By Darwin Nercesian •

[SHOT 2026] Ghoststar Tactical AR15 Stocks Take Glock Mags

For your product to be successful in this industry, it has to take Glock mags, even if it’s not a firearm. Ghoststar Tactical  apparently acknowledges this axiom, as their AR15 stocks do take Glock mags. Yes, these stocks are designed with storage compartments for housing Glock magazin...

By Hrachya H •

A Day At S5 Tactical: How a US G36/UMP is Made

A few months back, I had the privilege of having Bo from S5 Tactical on my podcast to talk about his, at the time, new company producing U.S.-made G36 and UMP-style rifles and pistols. Coming away from that conversation, I knew I needed to learn more. Bo was gracious enough to grant my cohost Kev...

By Bryce Bishop •

Springfield’s 10-8 Performance Master Class 1911

To readers of The Armory Life and many 1911 afficionados, Hilton Yam is going to be a familiar name. In the company of the many great gunsmiths and competitors who have built their professions around the construction or use of 1911 pistols, Yam offers a very unique perspective...

By Joe Kurtenbach •
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