Snake Shot Cartridges Demystified — GMP #201

This episode demystifies snake shot, detailing its effectiveness across various calibers and firearms. The discussion highlights that while .22 LR snake shot is largely ineffective, larger calibers like .38 Special, .45 Colt, and .44 Magnum offer more utility for close-range vermin control. The Taurus Judge in .410 is presented as a highly effective option for snakes and larger pests at greater distances. The importance of testing snake shot at different ranges to understand its limitations is emphasized.

This guide details a comprehensive test methodology for evaluating snake shot ammunition, as demonstrated by Banana Ballistics. It covers spread pattern testing at close range, ballistic gel penetration analysis, and a simulated real-world test using a reinforced hose. The expert-level assessment highlights the importance of considering noise levels and penetration for effective pest control, recommending .22 LR for its balance of low noise and adequate performance at close distances.

This video from USCCA provides an expert comparison of two types of snake shot ammunition: CCI's 50-grain No. 4 lead shot and 80-grain No. 8 bismuth shot. The instructor demonstrates their effectiveness from both a 1911-style pistol and a revolver, highlighting the difference in shot pattern spread. The comparison aims to help viewers decide which load is preferable for snake defense scenarios.

This video provides a practical demonstration of the Trailblazer Firearms LifeCard .22LR's operation. It covers unfolding the pistol, loading a single CCI .22 LR Shotshell, cocking the striker, and firing. The demonstration highlights the unique 'SnakeshART' effect created by the shotshell's impact pattern on a clay block, showcasing the firearm's function and a specific ammunition type's ballistic properties.

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.