Rock Island RIA 5.0 - first impressions

This review of the Desert Eagle chambered in .44 Magnum highlights its significant firepower and unique semi-automatic revolver-like capacity. The presenter notes the substantial recoil, comparing it favorably to the .50 AE but still finding it a handful, especially with smaller hands. Accuracy observations suggest a combat hold and potential need for sight adjustments, particularly with handloaded ammunition.

Hickok45 reviews the Heckler & Koch VP9L OR, highlighting its 'L' for long slide and 'OR' for optics-ready features. He emphasizes the benefits of the extended sight radius for improved accuracy, the quality of HK firearms with cold hammer-forged barrels, and the modular grip system for customization. While acknowledging the paddle magazine release can be a point of contention, he suggests it's manageable with practice, especially for competition or defensive use.

This review of the Tisas 1911 Duty B9R, often referred to as the B9er, focuses on its value proposition as a sub-$700 2011-style pistol. The reviewer, David, highlights its features, compares it to more expensive models like the Kimber 2K11 and MAC DS9 Duty, and discusses its performance, including potential issues with ejection and slide lock. The B9er is presented as a capable range toy and a potential base for budget builds, though not recommended for duty use out-of-the-box.

This video presents a top 5 list of full-size pistols recommended for their value and versatility in 2026, covering home defense, duty, and range use. The hosts emphasize that these firearms were purchased with their own money and highlight key features like ergonomics, reliability, and price points for each model. The list includes the Springfield Echelon, HK VP9 Tactical, Glock 47, Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0, and Walther PDP, with detailed discussions on their pros and cons.

This video provides a first look at the new Shadow Systems Axio pistol, unveiled at SHOT Show 2026. The review highlights its innovative chassis system, featuring a heavy steel upper receiver and a polymer lower. A key focus is the pistol's unique modular grip system, which allows users to customize grip width and material (steel, aluminum, plastic) via interchangeable side panels, offering a significant advantage over traditional backstraps for weight and feel. The nitrided steel panels are specifically noted for their role in recoil management.

This entry details the Staccato HD C4X prototype showcased at SHOT Show 2026 by Roger Barrera of QVO Tactical. Key features include an integrated one-piece barrel and compensator, a modular grip system compatible with Glock 19 and Glock 17 magazines, and an optics-ready slide. The prototype emphasizes Staccato's R&D efforts in firearm performance enhancement.

This guide details a practical experiment to debunk the myth that an AR-15 round would 'blow off' an ear. The Humble Marksman demonstrates through testing with pig ears that common rifle rounds, and even heavier calibers, create clean holes rather than explosive damage on thin tissue. The expert's analysis highlights the difference between tissue interaction and ballistics gel cavitation.

This guide showcases the specialized 'Space Guns' used in Open Division competition at the Double Tap Championship. It highlights custom 2011 pistols, advanced optics like C-More RTS2 and Sig Sauer Romeo3 Max, and high-end holsters from Safariland and Double Alpha Academy. The content, presented by a seasoned competition shooter, offers insights into the gear and techniques employed in high-level shooting events.

This guide details an efficient iron sight technique, drawing on insights from 3-division USPSA Grand Master Tim Herron. It emphasizes a shift from rigid front sight focus to a more effective target-oriented approach, using the rear sight for gross aiming and the front sight for fine-tuning. This method is particularly beneficial for shooters transitioning from red dot sights.

This guide details the disassembly process for three popular 2011-style pistols: the Staccato P, Springfield Armory Prodigy, and Bul Armory SAS II Tac 4.25. It highlights differences in guide rod systems, with the Staccato P featuring a toolless system, the Bul Armory requiring a paperclip or staple, and the Springfield Armory Prodigy needing a hex wrench. Proper maintenance of the guide rod system is crucial for reliable firearm function.