Beretta 1301 Tactical: Still the Best After 10 Years?

This review compares the semi-automatic actions of the Mossberg 940 Pro SPX against the Beretta 1301 Tactical and Benelli M4. The Mossberg's action is noted for its intuitive, automatic chambering of rounds when the bolt is cycled, similar to rifles and pistols. In contrast, the Beretta and Benelli designs utilize a cartridge release lever, requiring an extra step to chamber a round but offering advantages like 'cruiser ready' storage and easier ammunition swaps. The video highlights that while the Mossberg action may be simpler for beginners, the Beretta/Benelli system provides specific tactical benefits for trained users, stressing the importance of familiarity with one's own firearm.

This review of the Benelli M4 EXT highlights its factory-equipped upgrades, addressing common owner modifications for increased capability and speed. The shotgun features a 7+1 capacity, a 5-position collapsible stock with a pistol grip, and oversized controls. It is chambered for 2.75" and 3" shells and utilizes the ARGO gas system, though it may be sensitive to very light loads. The review is presented by SGM (RET) Karl Erickson, offering expert insights into its performance and tactical applications.

This review by firearms instructor John G. Johnson highlights the Attack Arms Bull Pup 12Ga Semi Automatic shotgun, emphasizing its suitability for home defense due to its compact bullpup design. Key features include an 18-inch barrel, ambidextrous controls, included cheek riser, and flip-up sights. Notably, the shotgun does not require a break-in period and reliably cycles 7.5 birdshot, even with 2 3/4 inch shells, demonstrating its readiness for immediate use.

This review of the Benelli M4 EXT highlights its legendary reliability, particularly its ARGO gas system, and its full 7+1 capacity, expandable to 9 with ghost loading. While acknowledging a high price point, the host emphasizes its superior performance and build quality over cheaper alternatives, making it a top-tier choice for demanding users.

This review of the Derya DY9 Island 9mm pistol highlights its unique 'island barrel' design and factory RMR cut slide. The presenter, RGG, emphasizes independent testing, finding the pistol to be highly reliable across various ammunition types and compatible with Glock magazines. While the price point is noted as slightly high, the overall performance, features, and reliability earn it an 'above average' rating.

The Honest Outlaw reviews the Palmetto State Armory 11.5-inch 5.56 pistol, highlighting its exceptional value at around $500. Despite its budget price, the firearm demonstrated impressive reliability, handling 800 rounds without malfunctions, and achieved accurate hits at 250 yards. The reviewer suggests minor upgrades for enhanced comfort but deems it a highly capable option for home defense and general use.

Chris Baker of Lucky Gunner Ammo explains the 'Cruiser Ready' method for storing a home defense shotgun, balancing safety and accessibility. This technique involves a loaded magazine tube but an empty chamber, with the safety off and action unlocked. This allows for rapid deployment by simply racking the slide. Baker also advises loading the magazine one round shy of capacity to preserve magazine spring longevity and prevent potential failures.

The FBI's brief adoption of the 10mm Auto in 1989, primarily with the Smith & Wesson Model 1076, proved disastrous due to mechanical issues and complexity. This led to the development of the '10mm Lite' and ultimately the .40 S&W cartridge, which was quickly adopted by Glock and dominated law enforcement for decades. The 10mm Auto's potential was recognized, but its practical implementation by the FBI failed.

The Ruger Mini-14 has maintained popularity for nearly 50 years by filling a market gap for an affordable, practical semi-automatic rifle, drawing inspiration from the M14. Despite early accuracy criticisms and political controversies, design updates and competitive pricing have kept it relevant, though the rise of affordable AR-15s presents new challenges.

This review of the Chiappa 1892 Alaskan Takedown lever-action rifle highlights its unique takedown feature, making it highly packable. Chris Baker of Lucky Gunner Ammo details its design evolution, caliber options (.44 Mag, .357 Mag), and compares it to other takedown lever actions. While praising its smooth action and crisp trigger, Baker notes some cosmetic quality control issues and suggests ergonomic modifications for improved handling. The rifle demonstrated 100% reliability over 300 rounds with good accuracy from premium loads.