There are many things we learn from first-time experiences. I thought it would be appropriate to talk about a few of my firsts and how much we can learn from these experiences. This all makes sense, given this is also my first column and I would like to invite you to join in my shared experiences and hopefully learn something along the way. ...Read More >

As I write this column, I have been seeing more and a greater variety of ammunition on our local store shelves as of late. I wish I could say the same about reloading components. It is getting better, no doubt, but components are still the weak link in the chain. Bullet supply seems to be rebounding quicker than either primers or powders. If readers are small-gauge shotshell reloaders, well they might be of the opinion that the world has forgotten about them all together. Wads and small gauge suitable propellants are conspicuous by their absence from most dealers’ shelves. ...Read More >

I recently read an article that brought back some bad memories of my handloads and perhaps you can help put my mind at ease. In this particular instance, the author referenced .32-20 W.C.F. factory loads that had wild extreme velocity spreads depending on if the revolver was pointed up, level or downward. In short, when the gun was pointed upward or level, the loads performed normally, but when the muzzle was pointed downward, the 100-grain jacketed bullets would regularly stick in the bore. I was shocked to read this, as I expect factory loads to always work flawlessly. Your thoughts on why this occurred would be of interest? ...Read More >

The origin of the Russian 9mm Makarov pistol, and its cartridge of the same name, is more than a bit confusing. In socialist countries, everything military is considered to be a “state secret.” If some information gets out, it’s a good bet that it’s largely false. Gun writers tend to take what is available and fill in the blanks. Of course, there are now internet experts who create narratives out of thin air. The 9mm Makarov has seen its share of all this, though the published account that follows seems to be plausible – at least at first glance. ...Read More >