SHOT Show 2018: Auto Mag .44 AMP Pistol

by
posted on January 31, 2018
automag_lede_44amp_01s.jpg

The last of the original Auto Mag semi-automatic pistols, chambered in .44 AMP, was built in 1982. In 1983, the pistol was featured in the fourth "Dirty Harry" movie, Sudden Impact, after character Harry Callahan (Clint Eastwood) loses his iconic Smith & Wesson Model 29 revolver. The Auto Mag's short-recoil operated action employs a rotary bolt with locking lugs much like those found in AR-15 rifles and the much heavier Desert Eagle pistol. The .44 AMP cartridge launches .429 caliber, 240-gr. bullets for performance levels comparable to a .44 Mag. revolver.

In 2015, Auto Mag LTD. Corp. was formed to bring this big-bore semi-automatic back to the market. Thanks to modern technology and materials, the new Auto Mag will have the look and feel of the original while resolving the mechanical issues that plagued some of the earlier models. Features will include a choice of 6.5" or 8.5" barrels, adjustable target sights, an adjustable travel trigger, and seven-round single-stack magazines.

The initial plan was to manufacture the Auto Mag in Florence, S.C., with Excel Arms providing frames and magazines. However, Excel will be building complete pistols with Larry Grossman, the former head of production, overseeing the process. The first run will be a limited number (fewer than 100 units) of 8.5" barrel Founders Edition models that will hopefully ship near the spring of 2018. Retail prices for the Auto Mag will start at around $3,499.

Latest

Rem700 Partsview
Rem700 Partsview

Exploded View: Remington Model 700

Since 1962, more Remington Model 700s have been sold than any other bolt-action rifle before or since, and this detailed disassembly guide, exploded view and brief history of the platform, is one worth filing near the toolbox.

Preview: Wildgame Innovations ZeroTrace Portable

The PureION technology employed by Wildgame Innovations’ ZeroTrace line of odor-elimination products chemically neutralizes offending smells—without resorting to an ozone generator—and the company’s Portable unit is the line’s most versatile product yet.

Review: Christensen Arms Modern Precision Rimfire Rifle

The Modern Precision Rimfire from Christensen Arms builds upon time-honored blueprints and is crafted from its maker's flash-forged carbon-fiber technology to create an accurate and fun-to-shoot repeating rifle.

New For 2025: H&K MR A4 Series

Building on its existing commercial line of MR556 and MR762 rifles, HK USA now offers A4 versions of both rifles, as well as large-format pistol variants.

Gun Of The Week: Smith & Wesson Model 1854

Welcome to another American Rifleman Gun Of The Week video, and this time we have a modernized American lever-action to take to the range. Meet the Smith & Wesson Model 1854.

New For 2025: Kimber 2K11

With its new 2K11, Kimber now has a dedicated design based on the 2011 concept that comes loaded with a number of added features.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.