As October rolled to an end this year, the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers (NASGW) held its 43rd annual meeting and expo in Kansas City, Mo. This show allows distributors (and a few gun writers) to get an early gander at the products gun companies are planning to launch soon. With the presidential election still days away, there were several manufacturers in attendance that chose to hold off announcing any new products until the 2017 SHOT Show. But other companies pulled back the curtains to show off what they have in mind for the New Year. We also had a chance to take a look at a few products before the SHOT Show, some of which are included here.
American Tactical Shotguns
After a two-year wait, American Tactical says its AR-pattern semi-automatic Omni MAXX .410 shotgun is finally ready to ship. The shotgun uses a gas-operated, short-stroke, balance piston system designed to fire a variety of 2.5" .410 shotgun shells including birdshot, buckshot and mixed payload options. The 18.5" smooth-bore barrel is threaded to accept Remington-style removable chokes. Built around a set of the company's Omni Hybrid aluminum reinforced polymer AR-15 receivers, the lower receiver assembly is fully compatible with AR uppers chambered in other calibers such as 5.56 NATO and .300 BLK. These shotguns ship with one removable 5-round magazine, while 15-round magazines will be sold separately. MSRP: $649.95
I also got a good look at the new Road Agent side-by-side 12-gauge coach gun. With its 18.5" fixed-choke barrel, Turkish walnut stock, exposed hammers and double triggers, this shotgun looks like other replicas intended for cowboy action shooting events. What sets it apart from the crowd are the unusual changes to the controls. When the break-action is closed, it automatically cocks the external hammers. A left-side, 3-position lever can be set to the Safe position when the hammers are cocked and used as a decocker to safely drop the hammers for reloading or emptying the shotgun. It’s a fast system that's easy to use. MSRP: $499
Avidity Arms PD10 9 mm Pistol
Avidity Arms, a new division of Eagle Imports, is preparing to launch a new 9 mm pistol called the PD10, which has been designed by Rob Pincus, founder of the I.C.E training system and the Personal Defense Network. Intended for use as a concealed-carry pistol, this slim, polymer-framed single-stack 9 mm offers a practical sight system, a smooth trigger pull, a short accessory rail and a comfortable grip. It accepts readily available Colt-style 1911 10-round magazines and will safely fire +P ammunition. MSRP: TBA
Bond Arms Pistols
Bond Arms of Granbury, Texas, is offering two new engraved models with finely carved and polished laminated grips. The new PT2A double-barrel pistol (top) has a polished stainless steel 4.25" .45 Colt/.410 barrel and frame with phrases from the 2nd Amendment engraved on the barrel. The extended rosewood grip is deeply textured with a rippling American flag motif. A portion of the proceeds from the sales of the PT2A will go to support 2nd Amendment organizations. The Dragon Slayer (bottom) is a new TALO exclusive model which will only be available from TALO distributors. The 3.5" .45 Colt/.410 barrel is engraved with dragon scales and the extended grip features an artistically carved dragon's head. Both models ship with the company's improved trigger and removable trigger guard. These models are slated to start shipping by the end of this year. MSRP: TBA
Century Arms TP9 SF Elite and Elite-S Pistols
Century Arms continues to grow its Canik defensive pistol offerings with the new TP9 SF Elite and Elite-S polymer frame striker fired 9 mm semi-automatics. In addition to the trigger safety lever of the Elite model, the Elite-S has a manual safety that swings up to block the trigger from cycling. Both models have slides with Tungsten Grey Cerakote applied over phosphate for a handsome two-tone finish. The Warren Tactical fiber optic sights are mounted using industry standard dovetail cuts that are compatible with a variety of aftermarket sights. Features include an improved single-action trigger, match-grade barrel, reversible magazine catch, loaded chamber indicator and striker status indicator. These pistols ship with a complete shooting kit that includes two 15-round magazines, a polymer holster with a paddle and belt mount, interchangeable grip backstraps and a cleaning brush. MSRP: TBA
Crimson Trace Laser Sights
Earlier this year, I spent some quality time with the Crimson Trace team to learn more about the company's new wireless LinQ laser sight and light system. The LinQs we tested used replacement grips designed for AR-pattern rifles. The photo shows the next version, which has a grip designed for the AK-47. Other than the shape of the grip, all of the features of the AK LinQ will be the same. Crimson Trace will also be adding new green laser options to the Master Series 1911 grip line up. MSRP: TBA
European American Armory Corp. (EAA) Witness Pistols
American shooters have enjoyed the Tanfoglio Witness series of CZ-75 pattern pistols for some time, thanks to European American Armory (EAA) importing them from Italy. In 2017 the lineup will be extended to include new Limited Custom (left) and P Match (right) options. The Limited Custom is a steel-frame competition gun with a blue Tancoat finish. The slide is skeletonized, drilled and tapped for optics, fitted with fully adjustable sights and the polygonally rifled match grade barrel is ported. The frame features a full-length dust cover, removable grip panels, and will accept 18-round magazines (depending on the caliber). MSRP: TBA
The P Match competition model features a new polymer frame that comes with two interchangeable grips; one has a magazine well and the other does not. The slide is topped with adjustable Super Sights. The controls included a single-action trigger with an over-travel stop, an extended magazine release, an extended ambidextrous safety, an integral accessory rail and a Hart shaped hammer. MSRP: TBA
Inland Manufacturing Pistols
Inland Manufacturing is best known for its fully functional replicas of World War II era firearms including the M1A1 Paratrooper Carbine and M37 Trench Shotgun. For 2017, Inland will continue to travel back in time with its new pre-70 series of 1911 pistols. Shown here is the 1911 A1 Government Model with features found on the original G.I. pistols. Features include vertical slide serrations, fixed combat sights, a lanyard loop, GI-style wood grip panels and Ithaca markings. MSRP: TBA
Inland will also be offering the new Liberator 45. Produced for Inland by Bond Arms, this stainless steel .45 ACP over-under double-barrel pistol features a 3" barrel, removable trigger guard, a non-reflective matte finish and an Inland logo extended grip. Rumor has it that the Liberator will also be available chambered in .30 Carbine. MSRP: TBA
Italian Firearms Group (IFG) Howdah .45 Colt/.410 Pistol
The Italian Firearms Group (IFG) is preparing to ship the unique Davide Pedersoli Howdah .45 Colt/.410. Inspired by the Depression Era Ithaca Auto & Burglar double-barreled pistol, the Howdah is a side-by-side break action with 10" barrels, a case-colored receiver, bead front sight, a folding rear sight and beautiful hardwood stocks. Unlike the smoothbore Ithaca pistols, which are restricted under BAFTA regulations today, the Howda's barrels are rifled and chambered to fire .45 Colt revolver cartridges. This makes the pistol legal to sell over the counter just like semi-automatic pistols and revolvers. The chambers will also accept 2-1/2" and 3" .410 shotgun shells filled with bird or buckshot. MSRP: TBA
Legacy Sports International Bolt-Action Rifles
Legacy Sports International is ready to expand the options available to fans of extreme long-range shooting sports with the new series of HCR Howa Chassis Rifles. The chassis is precisely crafted from 6061-T6 aircraft grade aluminum to free float the customer’s choice of 20", 22" and 24" Standard or Heavy contour barrels. The open fore-end accepts MLOK accessories and attachments. Other features include a Howa HACT 2-stage trigger, Ergo MSR grip, 6-position buffer tube, Luth-AR MBA-3 shoulder stock and a 10-round ACCURATE-MAG AI-style magazine. Caliber options include .204 Ruger, .223 Rem., .243 Win., 6.5 Creedmoor, 7 mm-08 Rem. and .308 Win. MSRP: $1,239 - $1,479
Webley & Scott will be offering a new lightweight German-made bolt-action .22 LR rimfire rifle. Available with either a 19” Carbon/Kevlar composite bull barrel or a standard profile carbon steel barrel, the muzzle is threaded and shipped with a knurled thread protector. This rifle’s features include a black synthetic stock, 10-round removable box magazine, an interchangeable Picatinny Rail or 3/8” dovetail scope mount and sling swivel studs. MSRP: $362- $463
LWRC International AR Rifles
After winning a coveted NRA Golden Bullseye award for its IC-A5 rifle this year, LWRC International is ready to trot out several new models for 2017 including the 16" barrel IC-DI in 300 BLK and the 8.5" barrel SIX8-PSD chambered in 6.8 SPC II . Shown here is the 7.62 NATO REPR MKII 20. The NiCorr cold hammer forged 20" heavy barrel features full length spiraling flutes and a 20-postion adjustable gas block for sub MOA accuracy. The LWRCI advanced trigger guard protects a Geissele SSA 2-stage precision trigger. This platform also sports a Surefire SFMB sound suppressor adapter, Skirmish back-up iron sights, an UBR Gen2 Adjustable stock and a Magpul MOE+ grip. MSRP: TBA
Magnum Research Handguns
Magnum Research, Inc. is shaking things up with its Biggest Finest Revolver (BFR) line up by offering several models with the new option of a Bisley-style grip frame (left). This style of grip frame helps to manage felt recoil which makes it a great fit for the BFR big bore. The model on display was fitted with faux ivory grip panels. Magnum Research recently updated the BFR hammer and trigger as well making the 2017 BFRs something to get excited about. MSRP: TBA
2016 heralded the arrival of the 6L Desert Eagle pistol (right) in .50 AE. For 2017 the 6L will be available in .44 Mag. and .357 Mag. Like the .50-cal. version, the new 6Ls will have 6" barrels and ported stainless steel slides. The lightweight aluminum frame has a matte black finish for a two-tone look and the top of the slide sports an integral Picatinny rail. MSRP: TBA
Remington Semi-Automatic Pistols
For the first time in the company's long and illustrious history, Remington will be offering polymer-framed striker-fired semi-automatic pistols. The product line will be launched with the release of the RP9, a duty-size 9 mm that accepts an 18-round flush fit double-stack magazine and a 4.5" barrel rated for +P ammunition. This new Remington has a host of features designed to satisfy the needs of law enforcement personnel and home defenders. A set of small, medium and large interchangeable back straps paired with one of the smallest full-size grip circumferences makes for a grip frame that will fit a variety of hand shapes. Other features include 3-dot sights, a PVD finished slide, front and rear slide serrations and an accessory rail. The RP45 chambered in .45 ACP with 15-round magazines will be available later in the year. MSRP: TBA
Handgun hunters can look forward to the new R1 Hunter 1911 10 mm pistol. These long-slide 1911s feature a match grade 6" barrel with an extended slide and recoil assembly to match. The sight system consists of a fiber optic in front with a fully adjustable target sight at the rear. Enjoy the added features of an extended beavertail grip safety, skeletonized trigger, accessory rail and VZ premium G10 grip panels. MSRP: Starting at $1,310
Savage Arms A22LR Rifle
Savage Arms is preparing several new offerings for 2017, one of which I was able to test fire a few weeks before NASGW. The new A22LR chambered in .22 Long Rifle is the third caliber to be offered in the “A” series of semi-automatic rimfire rifles. The first was the A17, which was also the first semi-automatic to successfully fire the 17 HMR rimfire cartridge, earning a Golden Bullseye award. The second was the A22 chambered in .22 Mag. which landed on the market earlier in 2016. Now customers will be able to enjoy the A series features while saving money on ammunition. The A22LRs features include an excellent AccuTrigger, steel receiver, adjustable sights, polymer stock and a removable 10-round magazine. MSRP: $281
Traditions Performance Firearms PA Pellet Ultralight Flintlock
For hunters who are looking for a muzzleloader that combines the best of modern firearm manufacturing techniques with a traditional flintlock action, the new Traditions Performance Firearms PA Pellet Ultralight is just the ticket. Based on the company's popular PA Pellet flintlock, this new model is fitted with a premium-grade chrome-moly steel fluted barrel that is light, strong and accurate. With its 1:28" rifling hunters can use saboted bullets and modern muzzleloader projectiles. Other features include an Accelerator breech plug, an improved hardened frizzen, metallic fiber optic sights, a solid aluminum ram rod and three different stock finishes (black shown). MSRP: TBA
Troy Defense AR Rifles
Troy Defense will be adding two new budget-friendly gas-impingement operated models to its extensive selection of AR-pattern rifles. The A3-LW (top) has a flat-top upper receiver paired with an 11" Troy M-Lok BattleRail handguard. The muzzle of the 16" long 1:7" RH rifled barrel is fitted with the company's Medieval flash suppressor. Other features include an enhanced trigger guard, mil-spec safety selector and an M4 style 6-position shoulder stock. MSRP: $849
The GUU-5P (bottom) features a forged upper receiver with a carry handle rear sight, M4 feed ramps and no forward assist. The furniture is typical of M4 carbines, including the A2 flash hider, A2 grip, ribbed handguard and an A1 Drum front sight with sling mount and bayonet lug. MSRP: $999
UM Tactical R.A.G.E. TCS Barrels
AR-15 enthusiasts and home builders will be glad to hear that UM Tactical will be offering barrels that have the company's R.A.G.E. TCS incorporated into them. The Rapid Adjustable Gas Expulsion Total Compensation System is the first re-configurable recoil management device. Placement of the port washers allows the operator to tune the gas flow for a just-right level of recoil reduction for the load being fired. Instead of lengthening the barrel of a rifle by attaching the R.A.G.E. TCS, customers will have the option of using a 16" barrel that is already compensated. MSRP: TBA
Walther Arms Creed 9 mm Pistol
With a long-standing reputation for high-quality firearms, Walther Arms will be adding a new option to the budget priced 9 mm polymer-frame pistol market this year with the release of the Creed semi-automatic. With a suggested retail under $400, the pistol is well-balanced, has a comfortable non-slip grip and tips the scales at 26.6 oz. The duty size 4" barrel and other metallic components are treated with a proven matte black Tenifer coating to protect against corrosion and wear. Other features include a Picatinny accessory rail, metallic low-profile 3-dot sights, front and back slide serrations and a listed pre-cocked double-action trigger pull of 6.5 lbs. MSRP: $399
Winchester Repeating Arms
Winchester Repeating Arms always has interesting products to talk about at NASGW. For 2017, the legendary brass receiver "Yellow Boy" tubular magazine 1866 Short Rifle (top) will be available chambered in .44-40 Win. and .38 Spl. The brightly polished brass receiver, crescent buttplate and fore-end cap enjoy the company of Grade 1 American walnut furniture with a straight grip for the shoulder stock. The sight system includes a Marble Arms folding-ladder rear sight and a gold-bead front sight. MSRP: $1,299.99
The SX4 semi-automatic 12-gauge shotguns (center) will be available in several configurations, including the Waterfowl Hunter shown here. The Waterfowl is available with either a 3" or 3-½" chamber and synthetic stocks with textured griping surfaces and enhanced ergonomics for a smoother swing. The full coverage Mossy Oak Shadow Grass camo blends into any marsh or grassland. The self-adjusting Active Valve gas system is reliable with a variety of loads. Additional features include a shock absorbing recoil pad, a hard-chromed bore and chamber, an enlarged bolt handle and bolt release button for easier operation. MSRP: Starting at $939.99
For small-framed shooters, the XPR Compact (bottom) provides an advanced lightweight synthetic stock with a 13" length-of-pull (LOP) and textured grip panels. The 20" free-float button rifled barrel has a recessed target crown and is thermally stress relieved for greater accuracy. The bolt has a Nickel Teflon coating for smooth cycling. Caliber options include .243 Win., 7 mm-08 Rem., .308 Win. and .270 WSM. MSRP: $549.99