Concealed Carry Laws From State to State

Whether you have a concealed carry permit or you’re thinking of buying a gun for the first time, understanding the concealed carry laws from state to state will ensure that you have a smooth process of obtaining your firearm and staying legal with it. Everyone has a different opinion on the second amendment and in fact, more than 50% of people think gun laws should be more strict.

The goal of this article is to help you understand concealed carry laws so you know where you stand in your state.

What is Concealed Carry?

Concealed carry means you have the ability to legally carry a concealed firearm in public. A concealed firearm means that it is hidden and not visible to everyone around you. In order to be concealed, the firearm needs to be hidden under clothing or carried in a backpack or purse by the individual carrying it.

Concealed carry laws require that firearms can be transported in a vehicle by the individual and under their control. It needs to be available to the person carrying it and can be stored under the seat or in the glove compartment.

However, there are a few instances that consider a firearm or weapon not concealed. If you are carrying your firearm in a belt holster and it is even partially visible, it is not concealed. If you lock your firearm in a closed trunk of a vehicle, it is no longer concealed.

Difference Between Concealed Carry and Constitutional Carry

Constitutional carry is a bit different than concealed carry laws. A firearm or weapon is concealed if it is worn underneath your clothing or is transported in a vehicle under your control. Constitutional carry means that a state’s law does not restrict citizens to possess a firearm or weapon that is concealed. Instead, they carry the firearm or weapon freely, without a permit.

Constitutional carry means that an individual can carry without a permit, background check, or safety training. It can also be referred to as permitless carry. Concealed carry often requires all of these things for many different reasons.

While concealed carry laws (and gun laws in general) might be strict in some states, you can’t let that get in the way of your individual liberties. The same applies to your prepping plans whether it be survival fishing, homesteading, or stockpiling. As an American, you have the right to bear arms. However, it is important to remember your state’s concealed carry laws.

Open Carry States

Some states even have the option to openly carry. Open carry means that a person is legally allowed to carry their firearm in a holster or it can be attached to a sling. This makes it open which is visibly noticeable, and easily accessible. Within the past few years, more states are making it legal to openly carry.

The reason that many citizens are in favor of open carry is that criminals tend to hide their weapons, but those who abide by the law can openly carry them and should not be forced to hide them. There are a few different ways to openly carry depending on your state.

The first is permissive open carry. This means that you can legally carry a firearm either on foot or in your vehicle openly. There are five states that prohibit open carry – California, District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, New York, and South Carolina. Alabama, Missouri, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington restrict open carry. If your state restricts open carry, this means that you generally are allowed to open carry, but you need to follow your state’s restrictions.

There are other states that are licensed open carry states. This means that you are only allowed to openly carry a handgun if you have a permit. States with this law include Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, and Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, and Utah. In Massachusetts, Minnesota, and New Jersey, it is illegal to openly carry long guns.

The remaining states allow open carry in public without a license or permit. Even if you are able to openly carry, it is important to remember that firearms are still not allowed in certain locations, like schools, churches, state-owned buildings, public transportation, or any places where alcohol is sold.

Defining Concealed Carry Laws and Permits by State

All states in the U.S and DC allow you to carry firearms if they are concealed. 30 states and DC require you to have a permit and have different permit laws, like may-issue and shall-issue. 19 states have laws for constitutional carry, but also can issue a permit if requested. The only state that has constitutional carry but won’t issue a permit is Vermont.

May Issue to Residents Only

This means that your state may issue a concealed carry permit based on their judgment after you have met all requirements and finished your application. This is specifically for residents only. California and Delaware are the only two states that may issue to residents only.

May Issue to Residents and Non-Residents

After you complete your application and meet the requirements necessary, your state will decide if they want to issue you a concealed carry permit. This can apply to both residents and non-residents. Connecticut, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York are all states that may issue to residents and non-residents.

Shall Issue to Residents Only

If you complete your application and meet all requirements, then your state will issue you a concealed carry permit. Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Louisiana, Michigan, and Nebraska are all of the states that shall issue to residents only.

Shall Issue to Residents and Non-Residents

If you meet all requirements and complete your application, your state will issue you a concealed carry permit. The states that shall issue to residents and non-residents are Washington DC, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Constitutional Carry to Residents Only

You are allowed to carry concealed firearms with no permit if you are a resident. Nevertheless, if you are a resident of your state and meet all application requirements, your state will issue you a permit. States that allow residents constitutional carry are as follows: Alaska, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, West Virginia, and Wyoming.

Constitutional Carry to Residents and Non-Residents

Even if your state issues a permit if you meet all of the requirements, both residents and non-residents are able to carry concealed firearms without a permit. The states that allow constitutional carry and shall issue to residents and non-residents are Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, North Dakota, and Utah.

Constitutional Carry and Does Not Issue Permits

Vermont is the only state that does not allow constitutional carry and will not issue a permit. However, Vermont does allow concealed carry.

States with the Strictest Concealed Carry Laws

The two states with the strictest concealed carry laws are California and Delaware. California has the seventh-lowest death by gun rate in the U.S. and Delaware has the eleventh lowest death by gun rate. While the death rate may be low due to the strict laws, it’s still not the lowest, and most second amendment backers would say this is a violation of constitutional rights.

Other states that also deal with strict gun laws are Illinois, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Hawaii, Maryland, and Massachusetts. Before you are allowed to purchase a gun, most of these states require background checks, training, and even have a waiting period.

Out of all of these states, Massachusetts and New Jersey have the lowest gun ownership rate (14.7 percent) in The United States.

States with the Loosest Concealed Carry Laws

There are quite a few states that are friendly with your second amendment right to gun ownership. States in the south and in the midwest seem to be the main states with gun-friendly laws.

Arizona, Idaho, Texas, Arkansas, New Hampshire, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Missouri, and South Carolina are the main states with the loosest concealed carry laws. The Firearms Industry and Trade Report is used to examine the economic output of guns in each state and determine which states have the loosest concealed carry laws. The more guns are owned in each state, the more gun-friendly that state is.

Final Thoughts

Concealed carry laws are a highly debatable topic but for the foreseeable future, we don’t expect much change. The states with high respect for the second amendment will likely retain loose restrictions and more blue states will continue to make you jump through hoops to own a concealed firearm. Nonetheless, the laws are the laws, and understanding them will help keep you out of trouble.

Remington Arms

Remington & Sons was founded in Ilion, New York 1816 by Eliphalet Remington II (1793–1861). Eliphalet Remington knew he had the skill to build a better gun than ones he could find on the market. Remington was 23 when he entered a shooting competition and took second place. Although he didn’t win, his flintlock rifle got a lot of attention. Remington was approached by many of the other shooters by the end of the day, asking to buy one of his guns. His company had become official with the help of his father, a blacksmith.

On March 7, 1888, the company was sold to Marcellus Hartley and Partners. The group included sporting goods chain Hartley and Graham of New York, New York. The company also owned Winchester Repeating Arms Company and the Union Metallic Cartridge Company. The company changed its name to the Remington Arms Company and moved to Bridgeport, Connecticut.

The Remington Arms Company

Remington is the oldest firearms manufacturer in the U.S. Remington is also the largest producer of rifles and shotguns in the U.S. They are the only company that makes firearms and ammunition. The original Ilion, New York plant is still standing and making high quality goods. The site also has a retail store and museum.

During WWI, Remington landed several military contract, including Enfield rifles for Britain M1907-15 Berthier rifles for France, and 1891 Mosin-Nagant rifles for Russia. Remington almost went bankrupt during the war when the Russian Imperial government ordered a large number of guns but had no way to pay for them. They insisted that the guns were faulty and refused to pay. Eventually, the U.S. stepped up and bought the guns, saving the company.

Remington Expands its Catalog

The 1920s saw a new period for Remington. They began making household utensils, cash registers and cutlery like hunting knives and pocketknives. They also began to sell clothing with the Remington logo, something that they discontinued in 1955.

DuPont bought Remington Arms in 1936, during the height of the Great Depression. It was also the year Remington went international, buying an ammunition manufacturer in Brazil.

In 1940, Remington built an ordinance plant in Independence, Missouri. They company opened five plants during WWII, one of which manufactured their legendary M1903 .30-06 Springfield bolt action rifle.

In the 1990s, Remington returned to making handguns.

Remington Ammo Today

Remington continued to build on its product line in the 21st Century. It began to make security and surveillance systems along with firearms and ammo. Remington created Spartan Gunworks, a subsidiary tasked with making an affordable high-quality shotgun.

In 2007, Cerberus Capital Management, a private equity company, bought Remington. The company’s name changed, ending with its current name – the Remington Outdoor Company.

The company had several good years until it saw a drop in sales and profitability. They filed for in March 2018.

Concealed Carry Tips and Safety

People carry concealed weapons (CCW) for various reasons, the most common of which is for personal protection. Gun owners must be trained and pass a test before they’re allowed to have a concealed firearm. States vary on their laws regarding CCW, so you shouldn’t assume that you can carry in any state. Some states, such as Virginia and California ban concealed weapons altogether, while others, such as Massachusetts and Illinois, ban them in specific areas of the state. Know your laws before you travel. If at any time you are pulled over by the police, you must tell the officer immediately if you have a loaded weapon in your vehicle. Otherwise, the consequences could be dire.

Choosing Your Gun

Gun owners must pick a gun that suits them regarding cost, weight, grip, caliber, and recoil. Common guns for concealed carry include .22, .357, .380, 9mm, and .45 ACP. You shouldn’t take advice from anyone other than a trained professional on which gun is best suited for you. It must feel comfortable; powerful enough to do the job but not so powerful that you won’t hit the target. Gun choices depend on what will work for you. There isn’t a certain type of gun for men and one for women.

Tips & Safety

Choose the Right Holster

Experts know that there is no one-size-fits-all holster. A holster should be made for the gun you use. The holster should fit snugly on the gun and be comfortable to wear, without blocking the safety or sights. Some people like to carry on the hip, while others prefer to use an inside the waistband or ankle holster. If people want their weapons to be hidden, chances are that the gun will be inside the waistband of their pants. Movies and TV shows often show people carrying a gun in the waistband of their pants, with or without a holster. A holster is the smarter way to go as it keeps the gun close to the body. Companies like Sneaky Pete and EAA make holsters for belts that look like phone or device cases. Since most people carry a phone, the holster blends into the background.

Carry-Friendly Clothes

Some clothes make it impossible to carry concealed, especially in the summertime. If you want your gun to remain hidden, consider wearing shorts with a firm waistband, a light overshirt, or lightweight pants. Whatever you choose, make sure your access to the gun isn’t hindered.

Carry Position

Most people carry a gun on their hip, so it’s the first place someone will look. You can move the gun to a slightly different position, such as two or four o’clock, which changes your silhouette and makes the gun less obvious.

Correct Posture

Standing up straight is good for your body, and for carrying a concealed weapon. It helps to hide the gun because your clothes will hang straight and not show off the outline of the holster or firearm. Good posture will also help with your shooting technique.

Conclusion

People often get shot due to the unsafe handling of their guns. Follow these safety tips and be careful. Also, remember that pulling a gun should be the last resort; if you pull it, be prepared to use it.

Best .223 Remington For Hunting

Imagine finding that some varmint has chewed a hole in your fence and eaten half of your backyard garden. You grab your .233 and decide you’ll show him who the boss is.

Why go for a .223 Remington when facing down rodents? Because it packs just enough fire power to take care of these little critters.

Important Differences in AR Ammo

One of the most important things to know right out of the gate is that there are two types of AR-15 ammo – the 5.56 NATO cartridge and .223 Remington ammo. Selecting the right ammo is dependent upon the type of chamber in your rifle. For example, if your rifle is manufactured to chamber the .223 Remington, that is the ammo you must use. If the rifle is chambered for the 5.56 NATO, then your rifle will accept both types of ammo. While the size is the same, the 5.56 NATO has higher pressure, something that a rifle chambered for the .223 Remington can’t safely handle.

Both rounds are excellent for varmint hunting and target shooting. Both are highly accurate at long ranges.

In 1964, the .223 Remington cartridge was introduced to the general public for hunting varmints and predators. One month later, the United States Air Force chose the ammunition in the form of the 5.56x45mm cartridge to be used in their new M-16 rifles.

Due to its mild recoil, the .223 Remington cartridge experienced popularity across many different shooting platforms with most of the buyers being varmint hunters and those seeking to rid their territory of predators. It was used effectively against small vermin such as rodents, skunks, feral cats, and groundhogs as well as medium-sized predators like coyotes, opossums, and racoons and foxes. It should be noted that the .223 Remington is illegal in some jurisdictions.

Current Specifications

The standard .223 cartridge uses a .224-inch diameter boat-tailed bullet in a rimless, bottle-necked case. The bullet measures 1.76 inches in length with the overall length of the round is 2.26 inches.

Standard factory loads range in weight from 35 to 85 grains. However, the most common is the 55-grain bullet. It uses a small rifle primer and has a max pressure of 55,000 PSI.

Bullet Types

Full Metal Jacket (FMJ)

The Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) is the most common type of ammo because it’s easier to manufacture and less expensive than other rounds. Standard bullet weights of FMJ ammo in .223/5.56 are 55 and 62 grain.

Ammo with lighter grain bullets work best with higher barrel twist rate like 1:8 and 1:9. The lowest common twist rate is 1:7, which is commonly used with a 62 grain bullet.

Note that the top choices of ammo on this page are FMJ bullets. It is recommended to use FMJ rounds because the power and expansion are enough. Soft points and hollow points can over penetrate and cause excessive wound channels and tissue damage.

Hollow Points (HP)

Hollow Point (HP) ammunition is most often related to personal and home defense. The cost of a hollow point is higher than an FMJ but is more effective for defense. The ballistics of an HP are similar to an FMJ, only lighter.

Soft Points (SP)

Soft Points (SP) are a popular hunting cartridge, but still popular for

AR-15 owners. The expansion of an SP is superior to an FMJ but has more control than the HP. The ballistics of SP ammo are excellent, particularly when paired with a boat-tail design.

Choosing the Target

Shooters consider bullet weight as the first indicator of the best choice of target. It’s true that .223 uses lighter bullets and is best used for plinking, varmints, and small game. However, modern technology has increased the penetration of the ammo, making it viable for taking down medium size game.

Varmints

Varmints most often include rodents, rabbits, gophers, groundhogs, and prairie dogs. Using a round with 35-55 grains will do the job nicely without breaking the bank.

Small Game

Small game includes larger critters like fox and coyotes, both of which can cause major destruction. The .223 cartridge will work in taking down small game, but it is recommended to use a heavier round from 50-69 grains.

Medium-Sized Game

There was a time with .223 wouldn’t take down a hog or a whitetail deer. While this ammo isn’t ideal for medium game, ammo containing 69 – 77 grain bullets will work just fine. Keep in mind that with big game, shot placement becomes more crucial.

Best .223 Varmint Hunting Ammo

“Varmints” or critters are simply small animals that make pests of themselves, often destroying property. These may include rabbits, gophers, rats and other rodents, weasels, groundhogs, etc. Because the animals are small, a great deal of power is not necessary. Medium-sized varmints and predators require more stopping power. These include coyotes, raccoons, skunks, opossums, feral dogs and cats.

Winchester Ammunition: Ballistic Silvertip 55 Grain Polymer-Tipped

The Ballistic Silvertip .223 ammo from Winchester has a polymer-tipped projectile. This is designed to prevent the bullet from deforming and allowing it to fragment for a quick expansion upon impact. This is especially important when taking down medium sized varmints and predators from a long distance.

Ballistics Info:

3,240 FPS Muzzle Velocity
1,282 ft-lbs Muzzle Energy
55 Grain
Polymer Tipped Bullet
Nickel-Plated Brass Casing
Boxer Primer

Remington Ammunition: JHP Cartridge 45 Grain JHP

Remington .223 ammo is a versatile round that serves well as part of your varmint hunting arsenal. The brass casing has non-corrosive characteristics which allows you to spend time stalking your pesky prey without fear of damaging the ammo or your weapon. The Jacketed Hollow Point offers reliable expansion, accuracy, and a flat trajectory.

Ballistics Info:

3,550 FPS Muzzle Velocity
45 Grain
JHP Bullet
Brass Casing
Boxer Primer
1259 ft-lbs Muzzle Energy

Federal Ammunition: Premium 165 Grain Nosler Ballistic Tip

Federal Premium tops our list for the best .223 Remington ammo for varmint hunting. This new production ammo is designed for maximum reliability and performance. Hunters have been using Nosler Ballistic Tip Hunting bullets for nearly 25 years. These bullets are precision-made to provide the utmost quality and accuracy with every shot. The heavy jacket and polycarbonate tip prevent bullets from deformation during firing and remain intact at extreme velocities. Simply put, this is one hard hitting round that will get the job done.

Ballistic Info:

3,240 FPS Muzzle Velocity
55 Grain
Nosler Ballistic Tip Bullet
Brass Casing
Boxer Primer
1282 ft-lbs Muzzle Energy

Hornady Ammunition: Varmint Express Ammo 55 Grain V-MAX

You can’t get more specific than Hornady’s Varmint Express when it comes to getting rid of the critters around your property. HornadyV-Max ammo works well at short or long range. Hornady eqips this cartridge with a solid polymer tip designed to deliver rapid expansion as well as a thick jacket that fragments upon impact.

Ballistics Info:

3,240 FPS Muzzle Velocity
1,282 ft-lbs Muzzle Energy
55 Grain
V-MAX Bullet
Brass Casing
Boxer Primer

Federal Ammunition: Fusion Bonded BT

Shooters rate Federal Fusion as one of the best for varmint/game hunting ammunition. The reloadable rounds have a bonded core and offer high terminal performance down range. The heavier bullet weight and boat-tail design give excellent aerodynamics and allows for radiated shock upon impact.

Ballistic Info:

3,000 FPS Muzzle Velocity
1,239 ft-lbs Muzzle Energy
62 Grain
FMJ Bullet
Brass Casing
Boxer Primer

Conclusion

Varmints don’t stand a chance against .223 Remington ammo. The cartridges are powerful enough to take down small pests and small to medium-sized game without breaking the bank. This ammo is versatile, accurate, inexpensive, and easy to find. Shooters choose .223 ammo as a good all-around choice that can be used with superior results.

Top Picks for .308 Semi-Automatic Rifles

Winchester introduced its Winchester Model 70 bolt-action rifle in 1952. The rifle was accompanied by .308 ammunition. The cartridge was upgraded from the 7.62x51mm NATO, commonly used by the military.

The Ultimate Hunting Rifle

The Winchester .308 may be the most well-known rifle for hunting medium to large game. In fact, .308 ammo was made for hunting. The effectiveness of the gun and its ammo is the ability to deliver hydrostatic shock to its target, rendering the animal useless.

Hunters and competition shooters are loyal to their guns. Fans of the .308 swear by its ability to hit long-distance targets. Although the accuracy of a round deteriorates when shot father than 500 yards, the .308 is capable of making the trip.

Modern Uses

Hunting isn’t as popular as it used to be, but the .308 has found a modern audience. Law enforcement agencies and military units prize the .308 for accuracy and precision. It is useful in urban situations, able to hit a target at 1,000 yards. Unlike larger calibers, the Winchester .308 rifle is easy to shoot with less recoil than larger models.

There are several .308 semi-auto rifles on the market that offer advantages over the traditional rifle. In addition to being able to take down a prize elk or bear, the .308 semi-auto works well as a tactical training weapon. It will also do a good job of protecting the outside of your home from critters and intruders. It is not the best choice for in-home protection however, as the round is powerful and could easily cause personal injury or damage to the home. In that case, stick with your trusty shotgun or a pistol.

Top Picks

There are a lot of .308 semi-autos on the market but my pick for the top three is based on price and performance.

Century Arms C308

Serious enthusiasts love semi-automatics, even though they’re expensive. The exception is the Century Arms C308. For about $800 you can buy a rifle that is basically a copy of the HK G3. The gun uses a 5-round or 20-round detachable box magazine that won’t break the bank. Some say the C308 is slightly awkward to handle but that can be overcome with practice.

Ruger SR-762

The AR market has skyrocketed in recent years. The upside to the AR’s popularity is that parts and ammo are plentiful. The downside is that the guns aren’t cheap. You can expect to pay up to $2,000 for a Ruger SR-762.

Springfield M1A

The Springfield M1A is a civilian version of the rifle used by the military since the 1950s. Today’s M1A is more versatile as it comes in different sizes with a variety of options. The gun is known for being reliable and hearty, but it’s also heavy and long. The current price is just under $2,000.

Conclusion

Experienced gun owners know that it takes practice to adapt to any new weapon. My advice is to test out several models before choosing the one that suits you best. The only sure thing is that a .308 can last a lifetime.

The Iconic .22 LR

In 1857, Smith & Wesson introduced the .22 LR, which became the most popular rimfire cartridge in history. Enthusiasts use it for target practice, training, plinking, sporting events, and varmint control. Shooters love the economical price and the fact that it is easy to buy in bulk. Shooters use the round in a variety of guns including handguns, shotguns, rifles, and submachine guns. Users appreciate the low recoil and small muzzle flash, which also makes it desirable for young and novice shooters.

.22LR ammo has four velocity ranges: subsonic, standard velocity, high velocity, and hyper velocity.

A Brief History

The .22 was designed for Smith & Wesson’s First Model. Designers modeled it after the 1845 Flobert BB cap. Weapons manufacturer J. Stevens Arms & Tool Co. had combined a .22 Long casing with a 40-grain bullet used for the .22 Extra Long. Manufacturers have modified the bullet to accommodate additional grains of powder; currently, there are three types: .22 Short, .22 Long, and.22 Extra Long. The .22 Short is not often seen on the market although it can be purchased through online sources.

The .22 LR is interchangeable between guns which is a benefit for those using a variety of weapons. The round is not recommended for self-defense or large game hunting due to its lack of power.

Currently, the .22 LR is the only .22 rimfire cartridge seen on the market. The .22 Short is rare and in most circles has become scarce.

Self-Defense

Despite the fact that the .22 LR doesn’t have a great deal of stopping power, it is still a common choice for self-defense and concealed carry. The round can be chambered in small and lightweight pocket guns, easily carried in a purse or jacket. Experts say that the cartridge will work well in most up-close situations, as long as the shooter has good aim. Shooters can fire the bullet fast and accurately so multiple shots are a possibility if they are needed. Since many people shoot to scare away their target, the .22 will work just fine.

Experts say that the brand of ammo is important when choosing a .22 LR. While many brands work well, you will find, on occasion, some that jam or misfire. Shooters should test different brands to find the one that works the best with their weapon of choice.

Popularity

Novice shooters use a .22 for target practice and training. The lack of power makes it safer for new users. The low recoil keeps the round from startling the shooter, thereby disrupting his posture and aim at the target. Countries restricting larger caliber bullets tend to permit the use of a .22 caliber.

It remains the bullet of choice for various organizations including the Boy Scouts of America and 4H Clubs. Military cadets use .22 LR cadet rifles for basic weapons and marksmanship training. The .22 LR is widely used in competition shooting, including the Olympic games, pistol and precision rifle competitions.

Powerhouse .50 AE

The .50 Action Express was introduced in 1988. The cartridge was designed by Evan Whildin, former vice-president of Action Arms. Whildin designed the cartridge as part of a program to boost the performance of the semi-auto pistol by creating a new cartridge design. Whildin developed the Action Express line to travel faster and fire hotter than standard forms of ammo. When testing was complete, Whildin released the line to the public. It included the .50 AE, a 9 mm and .41 caliber rounds. Although the smaller calibers never gained popularity, the .50 Action Express caught the attention of the firearms community. The ammunition is still available from several major manufacturers including CCI, Speer, Hornady, and IMI (imported by Magnum Research).

The .50 AE was destined to be used in the IMI Desert Eagle, a semi-automatic pistol imported by Magnum Research, Inc. The gun was already chambered for the .44 Magnum, and would only need a barrel change to use the .50 cal. The .50 AE features the same rim diameter and overall length as the .44 Magnum.

Ballistics

The .50 Action Express ammo is one of the most powerful pistol cartridges on the market. It has a .500-inch bullet diameter enclosed in a 1.285-inch straight-walled case with a rebated rim. SAAMI says the maximum pressure of .50 AE should not exceed 36,000 PSI.

Users report a significant recoil and muzzle blast. Many compare the recoil to the .44 Magnum.

The .50 AE uses a 325- grain bullet and offers a muzzle velocity of 1400 FPS. The 300-grain bullet has a muzzle velocity of 1400 FPS and offers 1414 ft-lbs of energy.

Types of .50 AE Ammo

The .50 AE cartridge is available in several bullet types, including jacketed hollow point (JHP), Bonded Jacketed Hollow Point (BJHP), soft point (SP) and Jacketed Soft Point (JSP).

JHP ammunition uses a lead bullet encased in a hard metal, typically copper. The bullet contains a hollow point, which allows the bullet to expand upon impact. Users choose JHP ammunition for personal protection, home defense, and game hunting.

Soft Points do the job although they offer less stopping power. It gives shooters a slower expansion and deeper penetration. Manufacturers use a soft lead projectile. As a result, hunters will use soft point bullets in areas where JHP cartridges are restricted.

Popularity

Whildin had a contract with the Israeli military. The Israeli Military Industries (IMI) Magnum Research Desert Eagle uses the ammunition, however, it was not the first gun to use the round. The first firearm chambered in the .50 AE caliber was the Arcadia Machine and Tool Automag V, a semi-auto, single action pistol. The weapons is described as the most “ergonomic and lightweight” of big caliber handguns.

Usage

Shooters choose the .50 AE when they want maximum power. Users prefer the round for silhouette shooting and medium to large game hunting, suitable against large predators such as bears. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATFE) categorizes the non-sporting round as a destructive device under its current regulations.

Law Enforcement Chooses .45 GAP Ammo

Glock introduced .45 Glock Automatic Pistol (GAP) ammunition in 2003. It was the first cartridge manufactured by the Austrian firearms manufacturer. The ammo is a rimless, straight-walled round that shares the same bullet diameter of the .45 Automatic Colt Pistol (ACP). The diameter is .451 inch. The .45 GAP is housed in a .755-inch casing, the same length as a 9mm shell). The cartridge’s overall length is 1.070 inches.

The ammo is made with a big bore bullet and uses a small pistol primer. Its maximum pressure is 23,000 pounds psi. It is ideal for self-defense and concealed carry. The round is suitable for use by civilians, military and law enforcement. It is efficient, accurate, and reliable. Glock has supplied United States law enforcement with more handguns in the last twenty years than any other weapons manufacturer.

Development of the .45 GAP

Glock aimed to design a .45 cartridge for a compact handgun that didn’t have an oversized grip. The design would allow the weapon to be used for concealed carry. In 2003, Glock introduced the Glock 37. They collaborated with ammunition designer Ernest Durham, an engineer with CCI/Speer.

Glock told Speer what it needed in new ammunition. They wanted a .45 caliber bullet housed in a case no longer than the one used for a 9mm Parabellum or .40 S&W. They also requested a cartridge that could easily fit inside a grip similar to their Model 17 or 22 pistols. The size would ensure that the gun could be used by most shooters, regardless of the size of the user’s hand.

Speer delivered the cartridges. The finished product was created using bullets ranging from 165-grain to 230-grain. The .45 GAP ammo’s muzzle energy averages 400 to 500 foot-pounds (ft-lbs).

The Popularity of the .45 GAP

The public quickly embraced the .45 GAP. As a result, several firearms manufacturers made pistols to house the new ammo. The trend died down and eventually Glock and Bond Arms became the only companies to continue production.

Currently, Glock offers several pistols chambered in .45 GAP: Model 37 (full-size), 38 (compact), and 39 (sub-compact).

Some shooters falsely claim that the .45 ACP and .45 GAP are interchangeable. The extractor grooves are cut differently which makes the main difference. Additionally, the .45 GAP uses a small pistol primer whereas the .45 ACP uses a large pistol primer.

Law Enforcement

Glock’s biggest success with the .45 GAP has been with the law enforcement community. Several state law enforcement agencies use the Glock 37 with .45 GAP ammo as standard issue. The ammo has similar fire power and performance compared to the .45 ACP yet is more compact.

Many law enforcement agencies have switched from .45-caliber weapons in favor of guns chambered in 9x19mm and .40 S&W. Despite the trend, three state law enforcement agencies have chosen the .45 GAP as a replacement for their standard issue 9mm Parabellum (New York) or .40 S&W service weapons (Florida and South Carolina). Smaller law enforcement agencies have also chosen to use the Glock 37 and .45 GAP. They include the Burden, Kansas Police Department, Greenville, North Carolina Police Department, and the Berkeley, Missouri Police Department.

The Georgia State Patrol previously carried the Glock Model 37. It has replaced it with the fourth generation 9mm Glock 17. The South Carolina Highway Patrol also abandoned the Glock 37 in favor of the Glock 17 “M” also chambered in 9mm.

The Pennsylvania State Police used the Glock 37 from 2007-2013. Lack of ammunition caused the agency to adopt the fourth generation Glock 21 chambered in .45 ACP. The police experienced recall issues and switched to the SIG-Sauer P227 in .45 ACP.

Types of .45 GAP Ammo

Several ammunition manufacturers produce .45 GAP ammunition, but it’s not a popular round. Most shooters looking for bulk ammunition choose from full metal jacket (FMJ), total metal jacket (TMJ), or jacketed hollow point (JHP) rounds.

Full Metal Jacket (FMJ) ammo is a lead bullet enclosed in a metal, typically copper, casing. The casing helps the projectile maintain its shape from firing to impact at the target site. FMJ rounds are typically used for plinking and target shooting. They can also be used for self-defense purposes.
Total Metal Jacket (TMJ) ammo is like FMJ in that it uses a lead bullet sheathed in a harder metal. The lead bullet is exposed within the round’s casing, unlike the FMJ. TMJ bullets feature a projectile is encased in copper. The shooter’s exposure to lead is limited due to the cooper casing. Some indoor shooting ranges in the U.S. require this configuration.
Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) ammo also uses a lead bullet encased in copper, but this bullet has a hollow point in its center. The hollow point allows for greater expansion upon impact. The expansion creates a larger entrance wound while reducing the risk of over-penetration.

The Iconic Colt Detective Special

Manufactured by Colt’s Manufacturing Company in 1927, the Colt Detective Special is one of the most iconic snubnosed revolvers ever made. It’s a six-shot, double-action revolver with a 2” barrel historically used by plain clothes police detectives when carrying concealed. It also became a popular model to carry off-duty.

History

Colt employee John Henry Fitzgerald came up with the concept of the “Fitz Special” snubnosed revolver in the mid-1920s. Fitzgerald wanted to reduce the barrel size of the .38 Special Colt Police Positive Special revolver to make it easier for police to carry concealed. He shortened the barrel and ejector rod and removed the front of the trigger guard to enable faster trigger acquisition. Fitzgerald also modified the butt and bobbed the hammer spur to make it faster to draw without catching on the policeman’s clothing.

The Detective Special

The Fitz Special made such an impression on Colt that they made some modifications to the design and introduced the Detective Special. Upon its release in 1927, the Detective Special became an instant success. Several law enforcement agencies worldwide still use the gun.

Five Generations

There have been five generations of the Detective Special, starting with the first generation in 1927. Some purists only consider the gun to have had four issues, since the fifth issue was a last-ditch attempt at reviving the weapon by making a run using spare parts.

First Issue

The Detective Special was first manufactured from 1927-1946. This issue was the pared down version of the .38 Special Colt Police Positive Special revolver. Distinctive features of the “snubby” included a shortened ejector rod with an ungrooved, knurled tip; a checkered cylinder latch and hammer spur, wooden grip panels, and a “half-moon” shaped front sight. The earliest model, featuring a 2” barrel, retained the original square butt grip frame. In 1933, Colt rounded off the grip frame to make the weapon easier to conceal. Colt switched over to the rounded butt for the Detective Special. However, the original square butt was used into the 1940’s.

Detective Specials were manufactured for the U.S. Government during World War II. Due to the high demand and quick turn-around required, many of the weapons had the original square butt. Historians believe that the guns were pre-war Police Positive Specials retrofitted with 2” barrels.

Second Issue

The second issue of the Detective Special was sold from 1947 to 1965. After World War II, Colt began to make changes to its line, including the Detective Special. The company changed a variety of things including the cylinder retention system. They also replaced the front sight, altered the hammer spur, and lengthened the ejector rod.

The gun’s grips were known as “Coltwood,” made from a reddish-brown plastic. This was common throughout the 1940’s and 1950’s. In later years, Colt returned to using checkered American Walnut embellished with silver Colt medallions.

The second issue offered a 3” variant with a lengthened ejector rod. Colt changed to a serrated trigger spur, and the cylinder latch was smoother than the original.

Third Issue

Produced from 1966 to 1972, the Detective Special’s third issue only offered a minor change. Colt changed the grip frame to match the short, “stubby” frame used on the Colt Agent. Colt changed the grips to simplify and reduce the cost of production. Other changes included adding a new shroud to enclose and protect the ejector rod. Designers changed the front sight to a full ramp, and oversized wooden gripstocks covered the front frame strap.

Variations on the third issue included a limited run of nickel-plated guns as well as a 3” barrel variant.

Fourth Issue

Produced from 1973-1986, the fourth issue was the last of the series and featured the last major design change made by Colt. In 1973, Colt changed the barrel to a heavier version, adding a shroud designed to cover ramped front sight and the ejector rod. They also changed the narrow, old-style grips to a sleeker combat-style that wrapped around the frame. Additionally, the formerly grooved trigger was now smooth.

In 1986, faced with dwindling sales and rising costs, Colt discontinued the Detective Special.

Fifth Issue

Manufactured from 1993-1995, the fifth issue was a last hurrah for the Detective Special. Colt had just recovered from bankruptcy. The company decided to take leftover parts and made a short production run of Detective Specials. The reissue was an instant success. There was enough demand from the reintroduction that Colt continued to produce the gun until 1995. The guns were identical to the 1973 model except for the introduction of Pachmayr’s “Compac” rubber grips.

The Detective Special’s revival only lasted until 1995, when Colt introduced the stainless-steel SF-VI.

Many experts tout Colt’s Detective Special as one of the finest snubnose revolvers ever made.

5 Commonly Misused Gun and Ammo Terms

It doesn’t matter if it’s a gun novice or an anti-gun lobbyist group, many people out there have a bad habit of saying misused gun and ammo terms. From political agendas to regional lexicon mistakes, it’s a wonder anyone knows what the other person’s talking about.

Here are some of the most common misused gun and ammo terms today

Clip

A clip is NOT what holds your cartridges and feeds them into your firearm. That’s a magazine. A clip is designed to help you quickly load your magazine. If you get confused, just remember that a clip has no moving parts (like a paper clip), while a magazine does (like the pages of a magazine).

Accidental Discharge

Almost every single time someone “accidently” shoots another person, the media and (some) politicians start talking about guns and how they accidentally discharge. And while there are such things as accidental discharges, that’s not what happened in these circumstances. See, an accidental discharge occurs when a gun misfires and they’re rare. But negligent discharges, which occur when a person pulls the trigger when they shouldn’t have, happen all too often.

Assault Weapon

This vague term is not a firearm term, but rather a political one. It made its way into the modern vocabulary in 1989 and, it seems, is here to stay. But what is an assault weapon? No one really knows. Unknowing people often think its an automatic rifle, but then when the anti-gun establishment uses it, that’s not what they’re referring to, after all, civilians aren’t allowed to own automatic weapons. Others assume it means assault rifles, which isn’t the case. And still more assume that the AR in AR-15 refers to assault rifle, and it, therefore, must be an assault weapon, but that’s not true either. Instead, it represents ArmaLite rifle, the first company to make and market the AR-15.

Pistol

In many people’s mind, even those who use firearms, a pistol solely refers to a semi-automatic handgun, but the term has a much boarder definition. In face, a pistol is any gun that is designed to be held with one hand. That means both semi-automatics, such as the iconic Colt 1911, and revolvers, like the Ruger SP101, are pistols

Bullet

Although bullet is a common term, many people get it wrong. If you don’t believe that, linger around the ammunition department at Walmart for just a few minutes. See how many people walk up to the counter and ask to purchase bullets. When you purchase a box of ammo, you’re buying cartridges, which include the bullet, gun powder, and the shell that holds them all together. In reality, the bullet is simply the projectile in the cartridge, in most cases, the lead ball that propels towards your target.

Although there’s plenty more misused gun and ammo terms, these are some of the most common. What ones do you notice the most? Let us know!