Semi-Auto

Join James Reeves as he pushes the iconic Bren 2 to its limits in the ultimate torture test! Last summer, we were granted exclusive access to CZ’s factory, where we got our hands on one of the military variants of the Bren 2 set for retirement. But instead of a farewell, we subjected it to trials that would shake even the toughest firearms. We pushed the Bren 2 beyond its limits with sand, mud, water submersion, and impact testing. But we weren’t done yet. We loaded up this 5.56mm gun with .300 Blackout. How did it fare? Watch the video to find out.

NEMO Arms has released a new line of AR-15 pattern rifles called the  FX Series. The NEMO Arms FX family of rifles currently consists of two members which are mostly identical except for the chambers: 5.56×45 NATO vs .223 Wylde. With an MSRP of $1,495, these are the most affordable .223/5.56 offerings in the NEMO Arms catalog (rifles with comparable specs from their Battle-Light line start at $2,450).

Announced at SHOT Show 2024, Primary Weapons Systems’s User Xchange Rifle or UXR is now shipping to dealers. The rifle will be available in .308, .300BLK and .223 Wylde chamberings. PWS explain that the UXR’s key feature is “The upper receiver of the UXR is the only serialized part of the setup, enabling the shooter to easily transition from configuration to configuration, caliber to caliber.”  MSRP for the new rifles will be $2,650.

Welcome everyone to the  TFB Armorer’s Bench! As mentioned in the little blurb below, this series will focus on a lot of home armorer and gunsmith activities. In this article, I figured with Memorial Day around the corner it may be a good opportunity to talk about M1 Garand maintenance or even a touch of general firearm maintenance and conservation. The last time we did something like this was with a Glock and a Glock Armorer’s Book. Perhaps you have Pappy’s M1 and want to clean it according to the military manuals or you just want to be on top of preservation. Let’s dive right in!

Hello and welcome back to another edition of The Rimfire Report! This ongoing series is all about the rimfire firearm world and its many different types of firearms, ammunition, and bits of history. Last week we talked about the fondly remembered Winchester 250 lever action 22LR rifle. A lot of you seemed to indeed have fond memories of the rifle and a few of you even commented that you still owned and shot yours which is something we always love to see (safe queens are boring). I was going over some recent show footage from SHOT 2024 and I came across the Rock River Arms 17HMR Gas Operated Blowback 17HMR Rifle. If you can’t watch the video, the rifle basically uses a hybrid of a bearing-locked breech, with a direct impingement system in order to give the 17HMR cartridge to properly build pressure before cycling. A lot of commenters on that video asked the question “Why can’t you do a gas-operated 22LR gun?” Today we’re going to try and at least partially answer this question. I’m not a firearms engineer, but I’ve learned a few things over the years about this tiny little cartridge that I think you’ll agree make it a poor choice to build a true gas-operated firearm around, which is why you don’t see them often.

Springfield Armory has been the military arms maker for decades for the United States. The Springfield Armory that we know and love today saw its rebirth back in 1974 making this year their 50th Anniversary. With that being said, Springfield Armory is extremely excited to announce the unveiling of their Limited-Edition M1A 50th Anniversary rifle.

Hydra Weaponry has spent years of R&D to develop their new Hydra 10, a DPMS-patterned rifle in .308 Winchester suited for those with long-range precision shooting to tactical applications in mind. The furniture is from BLK Systems and the gun has a Quick-Change Barrel Upper Receiver (QCB-D). The lower is compatible with standard SR-25 magazines. The Hydra 10 comes in barrel lengths of 16″ and 18″, offered in both black and coyote tan color options, with a suggested retail price (MSRP) of $2,349.

Dive into the world of elite firearm craftsmanship with our latest project: constructing the Ultimate Urban AK, where cost is no object. Join us on an unparalleled journey with the masters at Rifle Dynamics in Las Vegas, as we meticulously select and assemble the finest components to build not just a Kalashnikov, but a masterpiece. From choosing the perfect caliber for urban environments to the most ergonomic buttstock and furniture, precision-engineered triggers, and cutting-edge accessories, every detail is carefully considered to enhance performance, reliability, and aesthetics. This isn’t just any AK; it’s the epitome of what the iconic AK can become with no expense spared and no compromises made. Whether you’re a gun enthusiast, a collector, or someone who appreciates the art of fine craftsmanship, this video will take you behind the scenes of creating the ultimate AK, designed to be the best in its class. Witness the birth of the Ultimate Urban AK, where innovation meets tradition in the pursuit of perfection.

You’re watching and reading TFB’s Photo Of The Day where the LWRC IC-A5 is the main star today. IC stands for “Individual Carbine”. With an LWRC on order (not this model), I feel like a child before Christmas. I wonder where in the order process it might be?

Want a lever gun with practical hunting features, but you don’t want one of the new-fangled tactical-style rifles that comes plastered with M-LOK slots? The Uberti USA 1873 Hunter series might be the compromise you want.

One of the most popular tactical rifles in Canada is back with a new production run—and while it may see release in some other countries, this is one rifle that will not make it to the U.S. market anytime soon. In the Frozen North, Tactical Imports is now taking orders for the Type 81M, with several upgrades over previous versions of this semi-auto rifle.

In this episode of TFBTV, James Reeves is at CZ headquarters to talk about the CZ “Beautiful” PDW. The “Beautiful” is a secret CZ project that was never finished and never revealed to the public – until today. The “Beautiful” was given this nickname probably because it is aesthetically hideous, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and James and Karl both think the “Beautiful” is one gorgeous PDW. Will this ever be finished and released? Probably not, but at least we get to share it with you.

Hello and welcome back to another edition of The Rimfire Report! This ongoing series is all about the rimfire firearm world and its many types of guns, its various shooting sports, and of course special rimfire-focused reviews by myself and other TFB writers. This week we’re talking about another fun plinker that often gets squeezed into several other roles – the 10/22, or rather the Fletcher Rifle Works OpenTop 11/22 Takedown model. A while back I gave you guys my first impressions of the rifle and over the last couple of months I’ve been spending a lot of time with the rifle at the range, primarily accuracy testing it, but also getting a good read on its reliability, and how the experience changes over time. So today we’ll be going over my findings, and answer the hot question that everyone has when it comes to the takedown model of the 11/22, and its removable Picatinny rail section – does it stay accurate?

In the video interview at IWA 2024, James Reeves explores the Antreg ARS M4s rifle, a high-end firearm on the AR platform and similar to the HK 416. The rifle, chambered in .223 Rem, is notable for its versatility, offering 28 different variations that can be customized in terms of colors, engraving, and laser marking. The ARS M4s features a piston mechanism and fully ambidextrous controls, including the charging handle, magazine release, and safety selector, which can be tailored in length. It incorporates advanced surface protection for aluminum parts and a Salt Bath Nitriding treatment for the barrel’s bore and exterior. Key highlights also include an adjustable gas regulator, a free-float handguard, upper and lower parts made from hardened aviation-grade aluminum, and ease of maintenance with tool-free disassembly.

James Reeves is with Ziga of Polenar Tactical to talk about the Tinck Perun X-17. The Tinck Arms Perun X-17 is a versatile and innovative .308 caliber semi-automatic rifle that blends the reliability and ease of maintenance of a patented operating system with the robustness of the AR-10 platform. The Perun X-17 caters to a broad spectrum of shooting disciplines, from sports and hobby shooting to military and law enforcement applications.

In the world of modern rifles, there are countless options on the market. Whether it’s a bullpup, AR15, or other type of rifle, there’s a wide variety of options in the semi-auto rifle market. In the past, I’ve looked at the AKM platform and prefer the ergonomics of the AR15. There are plenty of options on the market that mix the two systems together. I recently saw some of the IWI Galils chambered in 7.62X39 and decided to try them since I have almost no experience with them. Over the last few months, I’ve had time to shoot and experience the Galil ACE. Let’s take a closer look at the IWI Galil ACE Gen II.

James Reeves is at IWA 2024 talking to Turkish manufacturer Akdas about their SAM carbine. The SAM is a Turkish short stroke piston operated carbine that is similar to the SIG MCX in that they use similar operating systems, AR-type magazines, similar stock options that interface to a 1913 receiver attachment point, hardened steel replaceable wear points in the receiver, and easy-to-change rail system that interfaces with the upper receiver. While it lacks the SIG MCX’s adjustable gas system, caliber support, and easy-to-swap barrels (not to mention the SIG prestige and the military contracts attached to the MCX at the highest levels of SOCOM), this is still an interesting take on a next-gen combat carbine from a country known to be capable of producing quality budget firearms.

Join James Reeves for an exclusive deep-dive into Heckler & Koch’s latest innovation, the MR308 A6, at EnforceTac 2024. In this special episode, James sits down with H&K’s rep and German military veteran, Hans, to uncover the cutting-edge features, design philosophy, and tactical prowess of the MR308 A6 rifle.

James Reeves is with his good friend, Kaya of Classic Firearms to get a brief overview of the MPT 76 and the MPT 76 SH (“Light” variant) .308 battle rifle from SAR aka Sarsilmaz.

James Reeves is at the Heckler & Koch booth to speak with his friend, Hans, about the new H&K G39 rifle. The H&K G39 is an ultra-high-tech version of the H&K 437. This is a compact .300 Blackout carbine designed for German special forces using an adjustable short stroke gas piston operating system, folding stock, fully ambi controls, and a whole host of other features requested by German Special Forces units. See the video for the full rundown and don’t forget to subscribe to TFBTV Show Time to see full coverage from IWA and Enforce Tac.

Photo Of The Day and we take a look at the new SIG Sauer SG 750 in 6.5 Creedmoor. According to SIG Sauer, in October 2017, the U.S. Special Operations Command determined that the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge has the best probability of hitting at distances of 1,000 m (1,094 yd). The recoil was also less than the traditional 7.62x51mm NATO cartridges. I don’t have any scientific data to prove that, but I can vouch that’s all true and beyond. If you’ve tried both, you’d know.

Join us in an exclusive hands-on video exploring the Beretta NARP (New Assault Rifle Platform), featuring insights from Andrea Candian of Beretta Defense Technologies, Carlo Ferlito, General Manager of Beretta, and Martin, a retired SAS Veteran involved in the rifle’s development. The NARP (which will not be called the NARP, by the way – that’s just the program name) boasts a modular design, AR-style controls, and is adaptable to various stocks. With three barrel lengths and compatibility with MIL-STD-1913, STANAG 4640, and M-LOK interfaces, it’s designed for versatility, including use with Beretta’s new B-Silent suppressor. Discover the innovation behind this tactical rifle, its performance in the field, and the expertise that shaped its creation.

Welcome everyone to the 227th edition of ‘Hot Gat or Fudd Crap?’, one of our many series here on TFB. If you’re new to the series, this is where we look at the most obscure firearms that are actually for sale and ask the question – is this Gat a sweet deal or only have Fudd appeal?  Each week the TFB staff weighs in with their thoughts, but readers get the final say in the poll at the bottom of each article.

Hello and welcome back to another edition of The Rimfire Report! This ongoing series is all about the rimfire firearm world and its many different types of guns, ammo, history, and shooting sports. Last week we talked about a complex gun from the past – the BSA Ralock 22LR takedown rifle. This week we’re setting our sights on something that Uncle Fudd is working on in his garage right now. Uncle Fudd isn’t a derogatory term in this case but rather the name of a man who has a normal day job and kids just like the rest of you, but who just loves tinkering around with his firearms in ways that often turn heads, but probably also turn stomachs for some of you out there. This time Uncle Fudd is working on a new Forward Charging 10/22 rifle. Why? Just because! The 10/22 in all but a rare handful of cases has always ejected and charged from the right-hand side. Uncle Fudd is going to fix that by adding a feature to the 10/22 you never knew you needed – a forward-mounted charging handle stuffed inside of a Grey Birch MFG La Chassis.

Today on TFBTV, James Reeves discusses a landmark evolution in personal defense weapons: the SIG MCX Rattler LT. This episode isn’t just another gun review; it’s a deep dive into a weapon that has redefined the standards of compact power and versatility. James has owned and reviewed the Sig Rattler since it was released and has extensive experience with this platform. The newest iteration, the SIG MCX Rattler LT, has been highly anticipated for its groundbreaking features and performance, making it a standout in the PDW category.

Barrett is a single name that’s synonymous with large caliber rifles and being the self-proclaimed leader in long-range. Since the company was born, they’ve resided in a small factory roughly an hour south of Nashville, TN. The name might be known the world over, but the story comes from humble beginnings. Recently I had a chance to attend Barrett’s M82/M017A1 armorers course and was allowed to see behind the scenes.  Here’s what I found inside the headquarters of Barrett Firearms MFG.

Hello and welcome back to another edition of The Rimfire Report!  This ongoing series is all about the rimfire firearm world and its many different types of guns, ammo, and shooting sports. Last week we talked about the direction that the rimfire industry might be going and while we were talking about odd designs in the modern age, that got me thinking about quite an odd design that came out of the post-World War II era – the BSA Ralock. BSA or Birmingham Small Arms brought the Ralock rifle to the scene in 1947—an entirely consumer-focused rifle that was a blend of top-notch quality, unique design, and a dash of machine gun inspiration. Let’s dive into what makes this vintage firearm tick, from its funky features and limited production history to where you might find one in the wild today.

Photo Of The Day – the best place to view the coolest images of firearms. Today the time has come to admire the MRGG-S, Geissele Automatics‘ Mid Range Gas Gun – Sniper.

Agency Arms is entering the AR market in 2024 and alongside their sister companies Riflespeed and Cloud Defensive, they’ve designed a custom rifle for Tu Lam of Ronin Tactics. This AR has a newly designed version of the Cloud Defensive COR rail that has step down section at the front to lower a laser aiming module out of the view of the optic. It also has a cutout window to allow access to a special version of the Riflespeed adjustable gas block. Some of these features will also be on the standard Agency Arms rifle, but not all of them! As you can imagine, Hop is devastated.

Montana-based Olympus Arms returns to SHOT Show’s Industry Day at the Range with their Vulcan rifle. James saw it last year and made a very popular video about it, but there are some changes that have been made and also, James wanted to know about the accuracy of this platform.