Combat Revolver Modifications - GMP#277

This episode delves into the often-underestimated costs and complexities of professional gunsmithing. Hosts Brent Wheat and Rory Huntington discuss why 'just doing it yourself' or opting for cheap services can lead to more problems and expense. They highlight the specialized tools, skills, and time required for tasks like drilling and tapping, action jobs, and even basic cleaning, emphasizing that professional gunsmiths provide value through expertise, quality, and safety.

This guide details the installation of Slick Shot stainless steel nipples on a Pietta 1860 black powder revolver. The upgrade aims to improve reliability by preventing cap fragments from jamming the cylinder and potentially enhancing ignition consistency due to a larger internal passage. The process involves unscrewing old nipples and installing the new ones, with a specific note on using Remington #10 caps.

This guide details the installation of a Cyro backstrap on a Gen 6 Glock, specifically the Glock 19. The process involves removing the factory trigger housing pin and replacing it with an extended steel pin provided with the Cyro backstrap. This modification aims to increase the grip's circumference and improve shooting comfort by adding material to the rear of the frame, addressing the Gen 6's slimmer grip profile. Two versions of the Cyro backstrap are available: one with shock-absorbing rubber and a plain version.

This guide details modifications to the Springfield Hellcat to improve shooting experience and control. It covers installing an aftermarket trigger and spring kit to reduce trigger pull weight, applying tactical tape for enhanced grip in adverse conditions, and sanding the magazine and magwell for improved comfort. These upgrades aim to make the Hellcat a more enjoyable and controllable firearm for carry and shooting.

This guide details a tool-less field stripping method for the Italian Bodeo 1889 revolver, emphasizing the use of a 'secret tool' to manage the main spring. It covers cylinder removal for cleaning and the reassembly process, highlighting the ease of maintenance for this firearm.

This guide details the installation of the Kiral Defense Heavyweight Steel Backstrap for Glock pistols, specifically the Glock 17 Gen 5. The process involves removing the trigger housing pin, replacing the original backstrap with the steel version, and securing it with a provided steel pin. The upgrade adds approximately 2 ounces to the rear of the firearm, aiming to reduce felt recoil and muzzle flip, thereby improving shooting speed and accuracy. The backstrap also offers a subtle alteration to the grip's shape, which some users prefer for feel.

This guide, informed by Roy Huntington, Editor of American Handgunner Magazine, details the critical differences between buckshot and birdshot for home defense. It covers their physical characteristics, penetration capabilities through walls, and effectiveness at close range. The advice emphasizes choosing a load based on concerns about over-penetration while stressing the universal importance of training, target identification, and using a light for any home defense scenario.

This guide details the field stripping process for a 1911 pistol, presented by Roy Huntington, Publisher of American Handgunner. It covers essential safety checks, step-by-step disassembly, and reassembly, emphasizing techniques to prevent damage. An alternative 'cheat' method for faster disassembly is also demonstrated, along with advice on using specialized tools for tight components.

This video showcases an exceptionally rare find: a first-generation 1873 Colt Single Action Peacemaker, discovered via metal detecting in Arizona. The expert speaker details its museum-quality condition, dating it to 1875, and analyzes the authentic patina and wear, including specific gutta-percha grip details and muzzle wear from holster friction. The firearm's discovery context among homestead ruins adds to its historical narrative.

This guide, presented by Roy Huntington, Editor of American Handgunner Magazine, outlines an efficient '5-minute clean' for modern semi-automatic pistols like the Glock 26/27. It emphasizes that over-cleaning is unnecessary and can cause premature wear. The process focuses on targeted cleaning of critical areas like the barrel and slide rails, with minimal lubrication applied only to high-friction points. Proper function checks after reassembly are also highlighted.