Review: Bond Arms Stinger

Published on June 13, 2022
Duration: 6:38

This review of the Bond Arms Stinger highlights its role as a compact, double-barrel pistol chambered in .380 ACP, ideal for close-quarters defense and pocket carry. The presenter notes its 'gut gun' classification, emphasizing its suitability for very close engagements rather than long-range accuracy. Practical shooting tests reveal significant point-of-impact shifts at distance, with the top barrel firing high and the bottom barrel firing low relative to the point of aim. Reloading can be challenging, with spent casings sometimes requiring prying out. The Stinger's compact size makes it a viable option for situations where larger firearms are impractical, such as on a jet ski or for casual pocket carry.

Quick Summary

The Bond Arms Stinger is a .380 ACP double-barrel pistol designed for close-quarters defense, often called a 'gut gun.' It excels in limited-space scenarios like pocket carry. Testing revealed significant point-of-impact variance at 5 yards (top barrel 6" high, bottom 4" high), and reloading can be challenging with stuck casings.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Bond Arms Stinger
  2. 00:11Understanding the Bond Arms Stinger
  3. 00:20Chambered in .380 ACP
  4. 00:23Features: Trigger Guard, Safety
  5. 00:25Reloading Mechanism
  6. 00:41The 'Gut Gun' Category
  7. 00:51Reload Speed Expectations
  8. 01:13Accuracy Testing: Close Range
  9. 01:40Accuracy Testing: 5 Yards Spread
  10. 01:50Point of Impact Variance
  11. 01:59Hip Shooting Test
  12. 02:40Reloading Challenges
  13. 03:18Fun Shooting: 25 Yards Steel Plate
  14. 04:00Becoming Comfortable with the Gun
  15. 04:20Sight Alignment
  16. 04:34Barrel Retention Screw Issue
  17. 04:55Pocket Carry Suitability
  18. 05:30The 'Jet Ski Gun' Concept
  19. 05:39Defensive Purpose vs. Other Handguns
  20. 05:57Niche Role of the Stinger
  21. 06:11Conclusion and Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bond Arms Stinger and what is its primary purpose?

The Bond Arms Stinger is a single-action only, double-barrel pistol chambered in .380 ACP. It's designed as a 'gut gun' for very close-quarters personal defense, excelling in situations where space is limited, rather than for long-range accuracy.

How accurate is the Bond Arms Stinger at different distances?

The Stinger is not intended for pinpoint accuracy. At 5 yards, the top barrel shot 6 inches high and the bottom barrel shot 4 inches high relative to the point of aim, indicating a need for very close engagement distances.

What are the challenges associated with reloading the Bond Arms Stinger?

Reloading the Stinger can be difficult, as spent casings may not eject cleanly and can require prying out with a tool like a knife or fingernails. Speed reloads are not a practical expectation for this firearm.

Is the Bond Arms Stinger suitable for pocket carry?

Yes, the Stinger is highly suitable for pocket carry due to its compact size. It can easily fit into pockets without the need for additional gear, making it convenient for casual carry in situations like running errands.

What maintenance is recommended for the Bond Arms Stinger?

A key maintenance point is checking the barrel retention screw, which can loosen with firing. It's advised to ensure this screw is tight after approximately one box of ammunition.

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