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Product Review |
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Week of October 08, 2007 |
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Smith & Wesson Guns, Lasergrips, Plano Cases |
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Click on Images to enlarge
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A Performance Center Pistol
A tradition of superior
craftsmanship and innovation is
The 945’s hybrid design incorporates the best of the venerable 1911 pistol configuration mixed with the top features of a Performance Center third-generation design. Extremely accurate and utterly reliable, the classic Model 945 provides shooters with a competition-ready platform.
Custom features include hand-lapped and fitted barrel, frame and slide along with unique double slide serrations. The hand-polished and fitted spherical barrel bushing and feed ramp contribute to accurate and dependable shooting. The single-action pistol has a 5-inch barrel with an overall length of 8.75 inches. Also standard on the Model 945 is a retarded lock time for increased accuracy, a competition-grade serrated hammer and match trigger with overtravel stop. Shooters will appreciate this pistol’s crisp 3.5 to 4-pound trigger pull, ambidextrous frame-mounted thumb safety and beveled magazine.
The Model 945 features a dovetail black blade front sight and an adjustable Wilson Combat® rear sight. This large-frame pistol has match-grade magazines with 8-round capacities. Hogue® black/silver checkered laminate grips have been added for enhanced appearance and no-slip handling. In addition to these features, the Model 945 is manufactured with a match barrel and a precision-crowned muzzle. The semi-automatic pistol is shipped with an aluminum carry case for convenient storage.
The Smith & Wesson lifetime service policy is standard with each pistol.
About $2,157.00
800-331-0852 qa@smith-wesson.com
Performance Center Rail Gun
The Smith & Wesson
Performance Center introduces a new
Answering the need of law enforcement for an entry team shield gun, the Smith & Wesson Performance Center has given greater flexibility to the revolver through the use of two Picatinny-style rails. The revolver is standard with a removable Picatinny-style rail located on top of the frame along with an integral rail located underneath the barrel. The traditional double-action revolver features a Scandium Alloy frame, black matte finish and a 5-inch, two-piece, shrouded steel barrel.
The M&P R8, chambered for .357 Magnum/.38 S&W Special, has an eight-round stainless steel cylinder and includes 3 full-moon clips for faster reloading. The revolver has a smooth Performance Center double action and a crisp single-action trigger pull. The lightweight Magnum revolver has an overall length of 10-1/2- inches and an unloaded weight of 36.3 ounces.
Other standard features include a precision barrel forcing cone, polished button polygonal rifling for less fouling, optimum barrel and cylinder gap, ball and detent cylinder lockup and chamfered charge holes. In addition to these features, the M&P R8 is manufactured with a precision-crowned muzzle for increased accuracy along with a forged hammer and trigger. The revolver is standard with an interchangeable patridge white-dot front sight, an adjustable v-notch rear sight and rubber grips.
The M&P R8 is shipped with a Performance Center aluminum box and the Smith & Wesson lifetime service policy is standard with each revolver.
About $1,311.00
800-331-0852 qa@smith-wesson.com
Smith & Wesson Extends M&P Pistol Series with Compact Models
Smith & Wesson has
expanded its Military & Police (M&P)
Designed primarily for law enforcement and military personnel as a backup or off-duty sidearm, the compact M&P pistol allows for easy concealment combined with minimal felt recoil. Engineered to the exacting standards of these professionals, the M&P 9c provides an exceptional level of performance and safety. The compact M&P pistol will also be available to consumers through authorized Smith & Wesson retailers as a concealable firearm for personal protection.
The M&P 9c features a 3.5-inch barrel with an overall length of 6.7 inches. The compact model is available with either a 10+1 or 12+1 magazine. The M&P Compact Series utilizes a steel dovetail-mount front sight and a steel Novak® Lo-Mount carry rear sight. Tritium sights are also available for low-light conditions. A universal Picatinny-style equipment rail has been incorporated for tactical lights and lasers. The polymer pistol has an empty weight of 21.7 ounces.
The compact pistol features a Zytel polymer frame reinforced with a rigid stainless steel chassis and a through hardened black Melonite finished stainless steel barrel and slide for durability; a passive trigger safety to prevent the pistol from firing if dropped; and a sear lever release that eliminates the need to press the trigger in order to disassemble the firearm. A loaded chamber indicator is located on top of the slide and an internal lock system is optional for military and law enforcement users. The pistol’s innovative ergonomic design is enhanced with three interchangeable grip sizes allowing the user to customize grips. The firearm also features an ambidextrous slide stop and a reversible magazine release, as well as an enlarged trigger guard designed to accommodate gloves.
The Smith & Wesson lifetime service policy is standard with each pistol.
About $640.00
800-331-0852 qa@smith-wesson.com
Smith & Wesson M&P 45 Full Size Smith & Wesson Extends M&P Pistol Series with .45 ACP Model
The M&P 45 is
the newest addition to the company’s growing
The polymer-framed sidearm will initially be offered with a traditional black frame, or in a bi-tone, dark earth brown frame. The bi-tone model will be manufactured with additional features not found on the black frame M&P 45.
The frame-mounted thumb safety on the bi-tone model acts as a passive safety device allowing the slide to be pulled toward the rear, clearing the firearm without disengaging the safety. Another feature available on the brown frame model is the specially designed grip tool that allows the attachment of a lanyard. The black frame M&P 45 will be manufactured with the same standard features that are found in the other M&P models.
Both M&P 45 models feature a 4.5-inch barrel with an overall length of 8.05 inches. The full size pistol will ship with a 10+1 magazine, with an option for 14+1 magazine. Featuring one of the smallest grip sizes of any .45 ACP pistol, the M&P 45 benefits from the addition of three interchangeable grips. The M&P 45 utilizes a steel dovetail-mount front sight and a steel Novak Lo-Mount carry rear sight. Tritium sights are also available for low-light conditions.
A universal Picatinny-style equipment rail has been incorporated for tactical lights and lasers. The M&P 45 has an empty weight of 29.6 ounces. The full-size pistol features a Zytel polymer frame reinforced with a rigid stainless steel chassis and a through-hardened black Melonite finished stainless steel barrel and slide for durability; a passive trigger safety to prevent the pistol from firing if dropped; and a sear release lever that eliminates the need to press the trigger in order to disassemble the firearm. A loaded chamber indicator is located on top of the slide. The firearm also features an ambidextrous slide stop and a reversible magazine release, as well as an enlarged trigger guard designed to accommodate gloves.
The Smith & Wesson lifetime service policy is standard with each pistol.
About $680.00
800-331-0852 qa@smith-wesson.com
Smith & Wesson Classics: Model 442 “Women of the NRA” Revolver
Smith & Wesson, in
conjunction with the National Rifle
A portion of the proceeds from each ‘Women of the NRA’ revolver will support a Smith & Wesson sponsored – NRA endowment. The handgun selected is part of the new Smith & Wesson Classics line and is the same revolver model carried by NRA President Sandra Froman when at home in Arizona.
The ‘Women of the NRA’ gun features an aluminum alloy frame with a blue finish. On the sideplate of the revolver and on the cylinder flutes is a machined-engraved NRA logo. An inscription on the carbon steel cylinder reads “Original Defender of Freedom 2nd Amendment” and an inscription on the backstrap reads “Women of the NRA.”
The five-round .38 S&W Special revolver weighs 15 ounces with a 1-7/8-inch barrel. Measuring 6-5/16 inches in overall length, the hammerless revolver is equipped with synthetic ivory grips, a black-blade front sight and a fixed rear sight. Each revolver features decorative engraving along the barrel and will bear a special serial number starting with NRA0001.
The ‘Women of the NRA’ revolver will be shipped in a glass-top, wooden presentation case and is standard with the Smith & Wesson lifetime service policy.
About $529.00
800-331-0852 qa@smith-wesson.com
Plano Protector Series Single Pistol Case #1403-00 Plano’s Model 1403 is the perfect size carrying case for a single hand gun and up to three clips. The Plano #1403 Protector Series is made of thick wall construction for maximum protection. With comfortable, secure user-friendly latches, the case has two layers of high-density foam.
Specs include: Large molded-in handle Two layers of high-density foam Thick wall construction for maximum protection Comfortable, secure user-friendly latches
Black
11.5"L x 7.5"W x 2.75"H
About $5.95
Available online and select retail or mail order shops
800-226-9868 www.planomolding.com |
for Smith & Wesson M&P Pistols
If you like the Smith &
Wesson M&P series, you’ll love the
Crimson Trace just began shipping these revolutionary new Lasergrips for several models of the Smith & Wesson M&P pistols in September. The LG-660 fits the full-size M&P .40, 9mm, .357 SIG and .45 ACP calibers of pistols. .
The LG-660 replaces the stock M&P back strap grip insert and snaps into place in just a few seconds using existing factory parts. It is instinctively activated by a pressure switch built into the backstrap of the polymer Lasergrip. They also feature a rear-activation switch that's part of your natural grip so there's no fumbling to activate the laser with your trigger finger. Simply grasping the firearm in a normal shooting grip activates the laser. All electrical components fit into the Lasergrip, which is the same size and shape of the original M&P back strap. This fully integrated laser sighting system is another Crimson Trace first in the marketplace.
Two #2032 batteries located in the palm swell on the sides of the Lasergrips provide over 4 hours of a constant-on beam time.
The master switch is also located on the backstrap and uses a new touch sensor switch versus a mechanical switch as found on other Lasergrips. This allows the user to turn the unit on or off even while using gloves. Users simply press on hold the recessed pressure switch to turn the power on or off. The texture of the unit is almost identical to the stock S&W grip. Rubber overmolding on the backstrap covers the master on/off switch and the activation button, providing improved grip while shooting.
The LG-660 uses a smaller 3.3mm diameter laser diode versus the standard 5.6 diameter diode that is found in most all other brands of laser sighting devices. This results in a lower profile diode housing that emits the same brightness as one almost twice its size. As with all other Lasergrips, the LG-660 has both windage and elevation adjustments for shooters to make adjustments on their own. All Lasergrips come with an accessory pack that contains batteries, hex wrenches for laser adjustments, a cleaning cloth and several cleaning swabs. A three-year warranty is standard.
Specifications •Beam Intensity - 5mw peak, 633 nm, class IIIa laser •Dot Size - About 0.5" diameter at 50' •Power - Two #2032 lithium batteries (included); •Four hours of illumination; 5-year shelf life •Activation - Instinctive Rear Grip pressure switch •Master on/off switch •Material - Hard textured polymer for smooth draws •User Adjustable Windage and Elevation •Three-year full warranty
About $329.00
800-442-2406 customer@crimsontrace.com
Smith & Wesson M&P 340 and M&P 360 Smith & Wesson Extends M&P Lineup with Small Frame Revolvers
Smith & Wesson’s small
J-frame revolvers are the newest
Chambered for five rounds of .357 Magnum/.38 S&W Special +P, the three M&P revolvers are standard with a scandium alloy frame and a Ion Bond Diamond Black stainless steel corrosion-resistant cylinder. The Model M&P 340 features a snag-free, Centennial hammerless design, while the Model M&P 360, with an exposed hammer, allows for convenient single-action and double-action firing.
Each revolver comes complete with a XS 24/7 front night sight and a custom U-notch rear sight for extremely fast target acquisition. The M&P revolvers are manufactured with a dedicated space on the side plate for law enforcement name and insignia. Also available is the Model M&P 340 CT. This lightweight revolver is packaged with a set of Crimson Trace laser boot grips that allow for even faster low-light target acquisition and alignment.
The Smith & Wesson lifetime service policy is standard with each revolver.
About $845.00
The M&P 340 CT is about $1,350.00
800-331-0852 qa@smith-wesson.com
Now Available with a 3-Inch barrel and HI-VIZ Front Sight
Combining durability and proven performance, the Model 60 is engineered for duty use or personal protection. The new Model 60 features a 3-inch barrel with an overall length of 7-1/2 inches. Featuring an ideal blend of concealment and shootability, the revolver offers shooters maximum power in an easy-to-carry package.
The popular Chiefs Special revolver frame features a stainless steel cylinder chambered for five rounds of .357 Magnum/.38 S&W Special +P. This single/double-action revolver weighs in at 24 ounces and is standard with a full-length extractor rod and rubber grips.
The new Model 60 is also available with a traditional black-blade front sight and comes standard with the Smith & Wesson lifetime service policy.
About $735.00
800-331-0852 qa@smith-wesson.com
Available in .357 Magnum/.38 S&W Special +P
Smith & Wesson’s new
Model 386 Sc/S combines the perfect
The compact revolver features a 2-1/8-inch barrel with an overall length of 7-5/8 inches. Weighing in at a light 21 ounces, the revolver is standard with a matte black scandium alloy frame and stainless steel cylinder. Featuring a set of Hogue black boot grips, the Model 386 Sc/S offers shooters pinpoint accuracy in a controllable package.
The medium frame (L) revolver is chambered for seven rounds of .357 Magnum /.38 S&W Special +P and features a new Ion Bond Diamond Black finish. With an adjustable rear sight and a red ramp front sight, the versatile revolver is designed for fast and easy sight alignment.
The Smith & Wesson lifetime service policy is standard with each revolver.
About $916.00
800-331-0852 qa@smith-wesson.com
Smith & Wesson Pro Series: Model 686 SSR Enhanced Stock Service Revolver
The new Smith & Wesson
Model 686 Pro Series offers
The stainless steel revolver is chambered for six rounds of 357 Magnum/.38 S&W Special + P. Manufactured with a forged hammer and trigger, the Model 686 Pro Series features a crisp single-action and a smooth double-action trigger pull. The revolver is available with a 4-inch custom barrel and measures 9.56 inches in overall length.
In addition to these features, the Pro Series revolver is standard with chamfered charge holes for quick loading and unloading during competition. For fast target acquisition, the revolver features an interchangeable front sight and a micro adjustable rear sight. The Pro Series revolver is also standard with bossed mainsprings that provide a 20 percent lighter trigger pull and a recessed muzzle. The Model 686 Stock Service Revolver (SSR) is complete with wood laminate grips with the inscription “SSR” on the butt of the revolver.
As an added bonus, each Model 686 will be shipped with a discount coupon for 3 full moon clips along with a special discount offer for a recessed cylinder. A Smith & Wesson lifetime service policy is standard with each revolver.
About $850.00
800-331-0852 qa@smith-wesson.com
Now Available with a 3-Inch Barrel
Designed for convenient
carry whether in the line of duty or in
Chambered for seven rounds of 357 Magnum/.38 S&W Special +P, the L-frame revolver delivers optimum power and accuracy. The Model 686 has a full-length extractor and is standard with a red ramp front sight and an adjustable rear sight. Measuring 8-5/8-inches in overall length, the revolver weighs in at 37 ounces. The Model 686 is standard with a satin stainless finish and a set of Uncle Mike’s rubber grips.
A Smith & Wesson lifetime service policy is standard with each revolver.
About $790.00
800-331-0852 qa@smith-wesson.com
Plano Protector Series Four Pistol Case #1404-00 Plano’s Model 1404 is the perfect size carrying case for four hand guns, clips and some miscellaneous tools. The Plano #1404 Protector Series is made of thick wall construction for maximum protection. With comfortable, secure user-friendly latches, the case has three layers of high-density foam.
Specs include: Large molded-in handle
Two layers of
high-density foam
Thick wall construction for maximum protection Comfortable, secure user-friendly latches Black 11.5"L x 7.5"W x 2.75"H
About $13.95
Available online and select retail or mail order shops
800-226-9868 www.planomolding.com
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