You are looking for a new iron, or a piece of equipment to improve the one you have? You are looking for a new iron or piece of kit to enhance your existing firearms?
Rock Island Armory is best known for its 1911 pistols that are affordable and well-built. The Filipino company is still a leader in the striker-fired pistol market despite being a pioneer. The STK100 is not your average striker-fired pistol. The 17-round 9mm is built around an aluminum frame and offers all the benefits of metal, such as more weight for better recoil mitigation. The pistol’s beavertail provides a positive grip texture, a Picatinny accessory rail, and front and back cocking serrations. The STK100 is also available optic-ready with a slide that can be used to add a red-dot.
MSRP: $599Federal Shorty Force X2
Federal’s latest shotshell is a great choice when shotgun firepower is limited. Although the Shorty Force X2 is only 1.75 inches long, it packs a deadly payload of Federal’s segmented buckshot. Six of them are exact. The shot is designed to split upon impact and can cause 12 severe wound channels. This is more than enough to neutralize any threat. The unique projectiles reduce the risk of collateral damage and pass through, making them suitable for CQB or home defense. It almost doubles the capacity of most guns.
MSRP: $29/Box Of 10Standard Manufacturing Toros Coppola T4
The M1014 shotgun by Benelli is used by the Marine Corps, but it’s expensive. Standard Manufacturing offers the same combat-proven technology for a fraction of what it costs in its Toros T4 12-gauge. The scattergun’s greatest draw is its ability to digest whatever it’s given. The gas-driven gun, which is based on the Italian system can eat through both high-wall and low-wall brass. This makes it very versatile for home defense. The Toros is also as reliable as tomorrow morning, able to take its licks while still delivering punishment trigger pull after trigger pull.
MSRP: $899Crimson Trace Micro Pro RAD Electronic Sight
Crimson Trace was once known for its laser sights on target, but has since expanded its scope to optics to the benefit shooters. Micro Pro RAD reflex optic is a good example. The aluminum-housed red dot is one of the most compact options available today. It can be used for EDC pistols and the heater that you keep in your bedroom, just in case. The aim solution provides fast and intuitive target acquisition thanks to its highly visible 3-MOA dot with multi-coated lens. The optic’s CT Radiant Ambient Lighting Sensor and CT Motion Sensor allow you to get into the fight right away.
MSRP: $275Trijicon RMRcc
It is difficult to look at a Trijicon optic without being amazed. The company’s RMRcc is a 1 ounce weight, 1 inch width and 1 inch height red-dot. The red-dot is superior to almost all other products on the market. The reflex optic has been rigorously tested to military standards. The unit boasts a stunningly clear coated glass that provides an unbeatable aiming window. Its 3-MOA and 6.5-MOA aiming dots will quickly get you on target.
MSRP: $699Hornady Security RaphiD Safe Shotgun Walllock
The dilemma of a homeowner: How can you keep a firearm safe, but still within your reach? Hornady spent a lot of time thinking about the problem and came up with a very elegant solution: the RAPiD Safe Shotgun Wall Lock. The 14-gauge steel box can be mounted directly to a wall and keeps a protective smoothbore under lock & key when not in use. The RFID system allows you to grab the gun at a moment’s notice. You don’t need to worry if the fob/bracelet key is lost or stolen. The RFID system will provide a backup six-digit code as well as a physical key that unlocks the unit.
MSRP: $275Mossberg 590S Series
Mossberg is one of the most trusted names for defensive shotguns. The 12 gauge pump-actions of the 590S series are faithful to the 500 line, but they have some welcome additions. The most important feature is the ability to interchange 1.75-, 2.75 and 3-inch shotshells without the need of an adapter. The Shockwave model firearm, with its manageable birdshead grip, is the perfect home-defense option. The 30-inch gun is both agile and powerful at the same time. It can also hold up to 9+1 rounds, making it more than just satisfying in firepower.
MSRP $623Editor’s note: This article first appeared in Gun Digest the Magazine, April 2022. Next Step: Download your Storm Tactical Printable Target pack62 Printable MOA targets with DOT drills – Rifle Ranges in YARDSThis amazing target pack comes from Storm Tactical and contains62 printable targets for rifle and handgun range usage. Target grids and bullseye sizes can be downloaded in MOA. Get Free Targets