Review of the Tavor TAR 21- Has my Mind Changed on Bullpups?

Published on September 2, 2018
Duration: 23:38

This review of the IWI Tavor TAR-21, presented by a firearms instructor, delves into its origins, design philosophy, and practical features. The video highlights the bullpup design's advantages in close-quarters combat, its Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) development to replace the M16/M4, and its durability and reliability. It covers technical specifications like the cold hammer-forged, chrome-plated barrel, non-reciprocating cocking handle, ambidextrous safety, and magazine compatibility. The review also addresses the common issue of heavy triggers in bullpups and explores aftermarket solutions, as well as the Meprolight RDS Pro optic and the rifle's field stripping procedure.

Quick Summary

The IWI Tavor TAR-21 bullpup rifle offers superior maneuverability in close quarters due to its design, placing the action behind the pistol grip. It features a durable cold hammer-forged, chrome-plated barrel and a non-reciprocating cocking handle. While the original trigger is heavy, aftermarket solutions significantly improve its feel and accuracy.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Introduction: Tavor TAR-21 vs. X95
  2. 00:31Origins and IDF Development
  3. 01:52IDF Use of M16/M4 vs. Tavor
  4. 02:20Israeli Arms Development: Galil to Tavor
  5. 02:41TAR-21 Features: Barrel and Compensator
  6. 03:09American Production and Import History
  7. 04:01Cocking Handle and Bipod
  8. 04:44Rail System and Optics
  9. 05:09Ejection Port and Ambidextrous Design
  10. 05:33Bolt Catch and Magazine Release
  11. 05:38Magazine Compatibility
  12. 06:20Trigger System: The Weak Point
  13. 06:50Aftermarket Trigger Upgrades
  14. 08:08Trigger Pack Compatibility
  15. 08:23Iron Sights and Optics
  16. 09:07Tritium Night Sights
  17. 09:23Overall Design Philosophy
  18. 09:30Tavor Tool and Barrel Swaps
  19. 10:04Basic Field Stripping
  20. 11:10Trigger Pack Removal and Comparison
  21. 13:15Ammunition Philosophy: M193 vs. M855
  22. 13:56Accuracy and Ammunition Testing
  23. 14:29Case Deflection: 5.56 vs. .223
  24. 15:52Combat Utilization and Special Forces
  25. 16:11Tavor TAR-21 vs. X95 in IDF
  26. 16:40Bullpup Design: Psychological Aspect
  27. 17:10Bullpup Face and Suppressed Fire
  28. 18:28Comfort and Balance
  29. 18:54Overall Impressions and Market Availability
  30. 19:11Configurations and Pricing
  31. 19:51Accessory Market
  32. 20:16Range Test and Firing Impressions
  33. 22:49Conclusion and Future Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary advantage of the bullpup design in the Tavor TAR-21?

The primary advantage of the bullpup design in the Tavor TAR-21 is its compact size, achieved by placing the magazine and action behind the pistol grip. This makes it significantly easier to maneuver in close-quarters combat and confined spaces compared to traditional rifle layouts.

What are the key technical specifications of the Tavor TAR-21's barrel?

The Tavor TAR-21 features a cold hammer-forged, chrome-plated barrel with a 1:7 twist rate. This construction contributes to its durability and ensures effective stabilization for a wide range of 5.56 NATO ammunition, making it suitable for various tactical applications.

What is the main drawback of the Tavor TAR-21's trigger, and what are the solutions?

The original Tavor TAR-21 trigger is known for being heavy and gritty, with a pull weight around 8.75 pounds, which can impact accuracy. Aftermarket trigger packs from companies like Geissele, Timney, and Shooting Sight offer significant improvements, reducing pull weight to as low as 4.75 pounds and enhancing the shooting experience.

How does the Tavor TAR-21 handle different types of ammunition, such as 5.56 NATO versus .223 Remington?

The Tavor TAR-21 is designed to function optimally with 5.56 NATO ammunition, which has higher port pressures. Using .223 Remington ammunition with lower pressures can sometimes cause ejected casings to miss the case deflector and strike the shooter, whereas 5.56 NATO reliably deflects forward.

Related News

All News →

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from SmallArmsSolutions

View all →