Viewpoints

Reader PM resubscribed after many years to get our 2nd Amendment reporting and commentary. Reader Richard got his latest issue in the mail, and it was "trimmed" on the side. Here's how to resolve that.

One of the issues gun owners face is whom to believe when politicians stake out policy positions on gun controls they would implement if they are elected to higher office.

Reader Murrell likes the look of the Blackhawk ARC, but not the gun fit. Reader Brendan shows how to enjoy a good Gun Tests read in style and comfort. And Reader Paul mixed shooting and sparking well.

But I believe real-life owners of guns — purchasers — usually tell more truth about product performance in the comments sections of various retailers. I assiduously read such comments, looking for online complaints that are worth checking out when I buy our guns and shoot them head to head. If we can't duplicate an issue that has come up, we don't report it — it's just gossip if we can't document it ourselves. But, occasionally, a nugget will drop out of the online compost, making the experience worthwhile

Reader field-tests the Rescue Essentials kit on the job for years and has some thoughts on its usefulness and drawbacks. Reader GW points out that some states have outlawed self-defense coverage.

It seems gun companies are suffering from a lack of "fear-based buying" because consumers aren't worried about stricter gun control while Donald Trump is in office. Also, ammo sales have been hit by consumers buying fewer bullets because they stockpiled during past scares, according to Markets Insider, a stock-tracking firm (Markets@BusinessInsider.com).

Reader Walt wonders if laser trainers can be used for air rifle and smallbore programs. Great idea — perhaps one can. Reader Mark says that where he shops, tube-mag shotguns continue to rule.

CNN has reported that federal authorities are searching for thousands of conversion devices that render semi-automatic Glock pistols into fully automatic weapons that are considered to be machine guns.

Readers have had a lot of challenges finding good wheelgun reloading devices. We were happy to help. Also, Reader Gail wonders about the 6.5 PRC, but not so much that a change is in the cards.

OMG, the things that are going on in and around the gun world these days. Some of it is quite hilarious, and some of it is deadly serious. In both cases, the items below are so weird, I could not make this stuff up if I had to.

I have a Canadian Non-Restricted version of the 9mm Beretta CX4. Barrel Length ~19.5 inches. The Restricted version here is ~16.5 inches. I did not see any mention in the review about needing "No Tools" to field-strip the rifle. When field-stripped, the two main parts are about the same size as the Ruger when taken down. In Canada, the Restricted version comes with a plastic gun case and no front rails, and the Non-Restricted version comes with the front rails and no hard case. The Non-Restricted version is too long to fit into the plastic case. With my big hands, I don't have an issue with the mag release. I bought the CX4 because I already own a Beretta 92A1, and they use the same magazine.

What many concealed carry consumers do is use Gun Tests grades and write-ups to identify problems and things to look for when purchasing a firearm. But the final decision has to be made by the buyer, because a gun should fit the shooter like a pair of well-worn shoes. That requires very personal decision-making for the CCW licensee. With that said, here are five handguns I believe stand out above the others if you're looking for a handgun with modest recoil.