Colt's Iconic 1903: A .32 ACP Pocket Rocket

Chris Baker of Lucky Gunner Ammo details the Kel-Tec P32, a groundbreaking pocket pistol that influenced the modern concealed carry market. Despite its small size and .32 ACP chambering, it utilizes an innovative locked-breech design for improved shootability and reliability compared to contemporary blowback pistols. While newer, larger caliber options exist, the P32 remains uniquely suited for deep concealment and ultra-light carry.

This review of the Kel-Tec PR-380 highlights its status as the smallest and lightest 11-round .380 ACP pistol available, even surpassing the Ruger LCP Max. The unique internal, double-stack, double-feed magazine, loaded via stripper clips or by hand, allows for its compact size. While the loading method is unconventional, the reviewer notes its potential benefits for deep concealment and backup roles, despite a learning curve and potential for user-induced malfunctions.

This review tests the lethality of various pocket pistol calibers by simulating different scenarios. Initial tests show even small rimfire and .25 ACP rounds penetrate plywood, but a ceramic tile barrier stops them. Ballistic gel tests reveal significant differences in penetration and wound channels, with modern JHP and +P loads outperforming standard FMJ, especially in .25 ACP and .380 ACP.

This review focuses on the North American Arms Guardian, a used all-metal, hammer-fired, double-action-only .380 ACP pocket pistol acquired for $300. The speaker highlights its robust construction, smooth but heavy trigger, and suitability as a 'get off me' gun or for deep concealment. While acknowledging its weight and lower capacity compared to some competitors, the Guardian is praised for its quality feel and potential reliability.

This video reviews eleven micro-compact pistols, highlighting their suitability for concealed carry and everyday use. It details features like tip-up barrels, magazine capacities, and materials, offering insights into their performance and handling for various shooters, from new users to experienced enthusiasts. The presenter emphasizes the importance of choosing a reliable and discreet firearm for personal preparedness.

This expert review from NRA Publications details the Ruger LCP MAX with a manual safety. It highlights the pistol's capacity increase to 10+1 or 12+1 rounds of .380 ACP, its durable stainless steel slide, and the functional low-profile manual safety. The review also touches on its shootability, enhanced sights compatible with Smith & Wesson Bodyguard models, and the patented barrel cam system that aids in recoil management.

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.