Protect Liberty PAC announced a GunBroker auction featuring a premium Benelli 20-Gauge Super Black Eagle 3 A.I. BE.S.T. shotgun to raise funds for the 2026 midterm elections. The auction represents a partnership between Protect Liberty PAC and Benelli, with proceeds supporting candidates aligned with Second Amendment principles.
Murray Road Agency, a Charleston-based strategic marketing firm serving the outdoor industry, has been named a Marketing Firm Regional Winner in the 2026 Best of South Carolina awards presented by The Guide to South Carolina. CEO Tim Brandt highlighted the recognition reflects their client relationships and team's commitment to helping outdoor brands connect authentically with audiences.
Krieghoff International celebrated a successful 2026 Pennsylvania State Shoot with multiple Team Krieghoff championship wins. Clare Schaffer of Newtown, PA won the Krieghoff Challenge and a K-80 Trap Special, becoming only the second woman to win in the event's 22-year history. Don Neilson Jr. and Deborah Ohye Neilson were inducted into the Pennsylvania Trapshooting Hall of Fame.
The 2026 SK Lone Star Cup, held June 6–7 at Bayou Rifles Club in Sedalia, MO, featured smallbore silhouette competition with William Harris defending his champion title. The event introduced the North American Silhouette Shooting Association's new "Future Champions" Junior Development Program, with mentorship from Team SK's KG Bourgoyne and Elisabeth Steiger.
Kaleb Klein of Team Ruger won multiple titles at the 2026 Area 5 Steel Challenge Championship in Terre Haute, IN, claiming first place in Optical Sight Revolver, Iron Sight Revolver, Rimfire Revolver Optics, and Rimfire Revolver Iron divisions using Ruger's Super GP100 and GP100 revolvers. Abbey Clary, Ruger's Director of Media, Advertising and Public Relations, praised Klein's outstanding performance and highlighted the reliability of Ruger firearms.
The U.S. Supreme Court struck down Hawaii's "Vampire Rule" in Wolford v Lopez, a victory for gun owners supported by the Second Amendment Foundation, Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms, Connecticut Citizens Defense League, and Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus. The ruling overturned a law that banned firearm carry on public property unless owners posted signs allowing it.
Firearms Policy Coalition filed a reply brief in Roberts v. ATF, challenging the constitutionality of the National Firearms Act of 1934. The case, supported by plaintiffs including T.J. Roberts, Zachary Cockrell, Meridian Ordnance, Buckeye Firearms Association, Center for Human Liberty, Jews for the Preservation of Firearm Ownership, and American Suppressor Association Foundation, argues the NFA violates Second Amendment rights.
The U.S. Supreme Court issued a 6-to-3 decision in Wolford v. Lopez holding that Hawaii cannot presume peaceable carry is forbidden on private property open to the public without express permission. The Firearms Policy Coalition, California Gun Rights Foundation, and the United States filed supporting amicus briefs in the case, which invalidates "vampire rule" laws that burden Second Amendment rights.
Target Sports USA launched "250 Years of Firepower," a campaign celebrating America's 250th anniversary featuring a Ford F-250 giveaway for AMMO+ members. The initiative partners with ammunition manufacturers CCI, Federal, HEVI-Shot, Remington, and Speer, honoring firearms' role in American history through historical content, promotions, and commemorative offerings.
Silencer Central's 100 Days of Silence promotion offers Day 71 winners a $6,000+ package including a Savage 110 Carbon Hunter rifle, BANISH MeatEater Suppressor, Burris scope, and additional gear. The giveaway runs through July 6, 2026, with new prizes daily at PopularSuppressors.com.
Blue Force Gear announced the appointment of Eric Suarez as Vice President of Marketing. Suarez will lead strategic marketing initiatives, brand development, and customer engagement across military, law enforcement, and commercial markets, bringing extensive experience in the shooting sports and tactical industries.
KDG, founded in 2014 and headquartered in Seymour, Connecticut, announced proactive steps to eliminate marketplace confusion affecting dealers, distributors, and end users. The company, known for its patented Kinect quick-detach system and SideLok optic mounting solutions, is implementing a long-term strategy to strengthen dealer relationships and reinforce its brand identity in the firearms industry.
CAA USA announced new ownership under brothers Joe and Anthony Parisi, whose company Plastimold Products acquired the conversion kit brand. The consolidation unites CAA USA, Plastimold Products, and META Tactical under one facility in Delray Beach, Florida, featuring the new MCK EVO platform.
Vortex and Hunter Constantine announced a $10,000 donation to the Second Amendment Foundation through sales of a limited-edition Vortex x Hunter Constantine Carry Belt, restricted to 250 units and supported by Vortex Nation members.
The NSSF announces the Second Annual NSSF Legal Symposium scheduled for October 6-7 in Washington, D.C. The event features CLE programming for general counsels and legal staff of NSSF Patron Members and SAAMI Legislative & Legal Affairs Committee members covering firearm and ammunition industry legal topics.
Pass It On – Outdoor Mentors is hiring a full-time Pennsylvania Program Coordinator to launch its outdoor mentoring program across the state. The role involves organizing mentored hunting, fishing, trapping, and shooting sports opportunities while connecting youth with volunteer mentors. Applications are due July 6, 2026, with an anticipated start date of August 15, 2026.
Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) welcomed President Trump's support for national concealed carry reciprocity legislation while cautioning that Congress must pass strong, durable legislation that protects gun owners without legal loopholes or conflicting state laws.
SLG2, Inc., parent company of Shoot Like A Girl and Safe LivinG, has partnered with Walk The Talk America, a nonprofit dedicated to mental health and responsible firearm ownership. The collaboration will integrate educational messaging and community outreach initiatives across nationwide events to promote safe firearm handling, secure storage, and suicide prevention awareness.
The Second Amendment Foundation announced that One Horse, an American firearms manufacturer based in Brownstown, Indiana, has joined as a Silver-level corporate partner. CEO Jeremy Hammons emphasized the company's commitment to Second Amendment rights. One Horse recently collaborated with SAF corporate partner Atrius Development Group to build the One Horse Express Rifle.
The Guns & Ammo Buzz podcast episode features Editor-in-Chief Eric Poole, Benelli Marketing Director Nick Andrews, Product Manager Bret Maffett, and Exhibition Shooter Steve Gould discussing Benelli's Urbino, Italy headquarters, manufacturing technology including AI, virtual reality, 3D printing, and Advanced Impact barrel technology.
SOG Knives released a limited edition 250th Anniversary SEAL FX Fixed Blade knife featuring a 4.3-inch S35VN steel blade, forged and assembled entirely in the USA. Only 250 individually numbered knives were produced, each retailing for $250 and available at SOGKnives.com.
FALCO Holsters and Graham Baates of GBGuns unveiled the A914 IWB Holster, a hybrid Kydex and Italian leather concealed carry holster featuring a Griffin Wing for comfort and weight distribution. The tuckable holster is priced at $159.95 and available for various pistols and revolvers.
Legacy Sports International announces the 2026 Pointer ST912 Walnut over-under shotgun is now shipping. The 12-gauge features a black finish, walnut furniture, adjustable comb, jeweled receiver, ejectors, and five extended chokes at an MSRP of $979.
Zanders Sporting Goods, an all-women-owned distributor based in Sparta, Illinois, has partnered with Pro-Shot Products to stock firearm cleaning and maintenance solutions. Pro-Shot, a USA manufacturer since 1982, offers premium cleaning rods, kits, solvents, and accessories trusted by hunters, Olympic shooters, and law enforcement.
Flux Defense and Ferro Concepts announced the PLATE PACK Covert Backpack, a purpose-built backpack that converts to a front-facing plate carrier for concealed carry. Designed for PDW platforms like the Flux Raider and Sig Rattler, it accommodates Level IV armor and is priced at $349.99.
Dead Air Silencers introduces limited-edition Sandman X suppressors honoring the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment and 5th Special Forces Group, with proceeds benefiting the Night Stalker Association and Special Forces Association Chapter 38.
GTM Original announces expansion of The Avenue collection with new Avenue Large Satchel Concealed Carry Bag in Black and Caramel leather. The satchel features USA top-grain cowhide and distressed buffalo leather, offering enhanced organization, RFID protection, and ambidextrous concealed carry access for modern women.
Weatherby announces the Model 307 MZY, its first production muzzleloader, featuring the Arrowhead Rifles Gen2 ignition system and Peak 44 Bastion carbon fiber stock. Available in .45 and .50 caliber, the rifle is optimized for Blackhorn 209 powder and includes TriggerTech trigger and Williams Gunsight options.
WOOX, an Italian-American gunstock manufacturer, announced the Elegante Sporter bolt action rifle stock, crafted from hand-selected Claro American Walnut with an integrated aerospace-grade aluminum mini-chassis. Available for Remington 700, Ruger 10/22, and Ruger American Gen2 platforms, the stock starts at $569.00 for standard walnut and $899.00 for high-grade walnut.
Winchester Supreme Long Range ammunition will be featured on Richard Childress Racing's No. 3 Chevrolet at the 2026 Toyota Save Mart 350 at Sonoma Raceway on June 28. The new precision centerfire rifle ammunition features BC Max bullets designed for extreme-range hunting and target shooting with match-grade accuracy.
MyOutdoorTV launches new summer episodes from seven popular hunting, fishing, and outdoor adventure shows including Haymaker Hunting, Hunting Beast, That Hunting Girl With Amanda Lynn Mayhew, The Given Right, American Heroes Outdoors TV, Reel Animals, and American Birdhunter, available on multiple streaming platforms.
A few days ago, I had time to kill while my truck was being serviced, so I walked over to the big box sporting goods store, not intending to buy anything but to browse. In addition to confirming that the store’s single box prices for ammunition were much higher than I’d like to see, over in the gun section, there was an entire wall dedicated to 9mm handguns. The rifles were sorted, as you’d expect; by bolt-actions and autoloaders in what seemed to be an equal number of both varieties. What I did not see were any firearms chambering the .30 Carbine cartridge.
Now is the time when you say, “Duh, those are old grandpa guns. Of course they didn’t have any.” First off, I am a grandpa and I own a .30 Carbine gun. Secondly, it really does not seem to me to be all that long ago when I was browsing gun stores in my youth and M1 Carbines could be found in every shop.
Back during the days when I was writing for dead tree magazines, I reviewed several firearms in .30 Carbine. You might be surprised to know that lots of them were handguns.
Wait, handguns?!
Yes, I wrote articles about the Ruger Blackhawk, the Taurus Raging Thirty, and the AMT Automag III all chambered in .30 Carbine. Of the three, only the Ruger is still being produced. The Automag III is my great white buffalo and I have regretted letting it go for the last twenty-five years or so.
What has led me down this trip on memory lane you might ask? During a recent conversation with a young man in his thirties we were discussing the evolution of firearms and how we got to where we are today. I mentioned the M1 in .30 Carbine and my young friend had to admit that he knew nothing about it. I can’t truly fault him for that.
For all of his adulthood, the go to self-loading rifle has been some type of AR variant. I suggested to him that he pick up a copy of the book, A Pipe Hitters Guide to Small Arms & Weapons in which our pal, Nicholas Orr, details the history of many modern firearms and some of the most significant models in modern history. I contacted Mr. Orr and asked for permission to reprint the section of that book that discusses the M1 Carbine and he generously consented.
M1 Carbine
The M1 Carbine is interesting in that it has a similar beginning to the AR-15. Desiring a gun for support and auxiliary troops, the US Army wanted something more than a pistol, but something lighter and more convenient to carry than a full sized fighting rifle, such as the M1903 Springfield or the M1 Garand. So, the .30 caliber M1 Carbine seemed like the “Goldilocks” or “just right” solution.
Using a bolt mechanism that was essentially a scaled down version of the M1 Garand, the M1 Carbine was unique in that it used a detachable magazine and the new .30 Carbine cartridge. This cartridge used a 110 grain full metal jacket bullet that traveled just shy of 2000 feet per second. The .30 Carbine round was flatter shooting than the slow, heavy 230 grain .45 ACP cartridge and the felt recoil was minimal.
As history has shown, the idea of arming only support or auxiliary troops with M1 Carbines soon went out the door and demand for arms skyrocketed at the height of WWII. It didn’t take long before frontline troops were being deployed with these guns. The original magazines held 15 rounds of ammunition. When the M2 select-fire versions came along, ammo capacity was doubled with the advent of a 30 round magazine. These were given the nickname “jungle clips” by the GI’s who used them in the South Pacific campaign.
When WWII ended, the United States sold/gave literally hundreds of thousands of M1 Carbine to friendly nations. A good percentage also went into the US military surplus market and were sold in gun shops nationwide. During WWII alone, over 6 million M1 Carbines were manufactured in the semi-automatic M1 variety as well as the full-auto capable M2.
M1 Carbines are still being manufactured today by Auto-Ordnance and Inland Manufacturing. The Universal Firearms Company made a US civilian version of the M1 Carbine that mimicked the original but has some slight variations to the design. The Universal Carbines used the same magazines, ammunition, and a Garand-style action. Although out of business, Universal produced over 420,000 of their carbines. The M1 Carbine and the variants of that gun saw combat use in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America.
.30 Carbine Today
I suppose it was a year or two back when one of our Student of the Gun listeners posed the question, “Do you think the M1 Carbine is still a viable home defense gun?” To which I replied that it most certainly was viable when employed by trained hands.
While the round doesn’t produce the hydrostatic shock of the .223 Remington, a 110 grain bullet moving at 1990 feet per second is not exactly a love-tap either. Tens of thousands of Japanese and German ghosts would attest to the lethal efficiency of the cartridge. If you’re looking for defensive loads, there are many good ones still available including a 110 grain FTX load from Hornady.
In my personal armory, I have an Inland Manufacturing M1 Jungle Carbine. In addition to American made factory ammunition, I have been working my way through a 1080 round can of Korean surplus ammo. If you find such a thing at a gun show, I would grab it up. The Korean ammo was designed for military issue and comes in bandoliers with the ammo loaded on 10-round stripper clips. What is really interesting, at least to me, is that every clip of ammo had its own speedloader attached.
Of all the United States allies, the South Koreans are likely the biggest user/holder of WWII era M1 Carbines with over 600,000 thousand in inventory. Also, if you find M1 Carbine magazines in brown paper wrappers at a gun show, there is a 99 percent chance that they are Korean-made.
My thirty-year experience with the M1 Carbine has been that the magazines are often the Achilles’ heel. You need to test them in your gun for reliability. My practice is to number all the mags with a silver paint pen and sort the wheat from the chaff. Also, M1s like to be clean and well-lubricated. Don’t be stingy with the gun oil. Disassembly for cleaning is not a straight-forward as a GLOCK or an AR, but Youtube videos abound.
In a world where plastic and aluminum guns are the norm, it’s nice to get out to the range with some hardwood and steel. If you find yourself wanting to channel the experiences of your grandfathers and great-grandfathers, a trip to the range with an M1 Carbine is a worthwhile endeavor.
