We thought the frame of the S-1 felt flatter and sharper and the machining appeared to be more austere than the German models, but to be sure of origin, the serial number of the pistol appeared plainly just behind the trigger guard, complete with PPK/S-1 designation. On the left side the words “Under License of” was added above the traditional Carl Walther marking. The PPK/S-1 test gun was easily distinguished from a European Walther by clear, workmanlike graphics that read “Smith & Wesson, Houlton, ME USA” underneath the Walther logo on the right-hand side of the slide. We suspect the S-1 designation meant Smith & Wesson’s first model. That variant was actually the stainless PPK/S-1 in 380 Auto, which at the time was made by Smith & Wesson under license from Walther. The last time we reviewed a Walther PPK/S was in the November 2002 issue. We matched the pistols against a classic Walther Arms PPK/S, $700, as a counterpoint. During prep handling, our shooters found the pistol is indeed easily concealed and offers good features. Unfortunately, many buyers purchase a handgun based on size alone and do not consider how uncomfortable the handgun may be to fire. The Springfield 911 380 Auto is designed to be more comfortable to fire and use than other small pistols. Our test gun, the PG9109S, has a brushed stainless-steel slide and lists for $599. Two models come with Viridian Green Grip Lasers, the PG9109VG with a black nitride, $789 and the PG9109SVG with a brushed stainless-steel slide, also $789. The PG9109 has a black nitride slide and lists for $599 (see page 16). So, carry the Springfield 911 and be ready at the ready. If you get in a tussle, the thinking goes, police are minutes away if you call 9-1-1, while danger is only seconds away. The 911 name was chosen for those who may have to be their own first responder. The Springfield 911 (nine-one-one) is a small 380 ACP that is adorned from the factory with night sights and a set of custom-grade grips. Next up is the Springfield Armory 911 Bi-Tone PG9109S, $516. For perspective, we also touched upon the Colt 1903, which, surprisingly, has much in common with the Smith & Wesson Military & Police 380 EZ. Likewise, double-action-only or striker-fired safe-action pistols may also present a problem with trigger strength with some shooters. In initial handling, we found the Shield is easier to use than a revolver and most double-action-first-shot pistols because the other types may stress the trigger finger of elderly or female shooters. If it works as advertised, Smith & Wesson will have provided a handgun that fills a real need. The “EZ” part of the name refers to an easy cocking system Smith & Wesson claims will make the pistol better for those with limited hand strength to fire and use. The new Shield isn’t a micro-compact pistol but is instead a nice-sized 380 that is all about easy shooting. The first of these handguns is the Smith & Wesson M&P 380 Shield EZ 180023, $384, an important step toward offering a handgun that is well suited to those with lowered hand strength and dexterity. Regarding the handguns themselves, here we test three, two that are new variants by respected makers and a third that is a veteran name in the 380 ACP field, despite its being marketed for slim guys who often wear tuxedos. While we have serious reservations concerning the stopping potential of the 380 ACP round, there are some loads that are better than others, and we included these in the test program that follows. Includes one 6-round flush and one 7-round extended magazine.As our ammunition-selling retail sources tell us, 380 ACP pistols are increasingly popular, and because of that interest, new handguns for the chambering are being introduced at a steady pace. The Springfield Armory 911 is also offered with integrated green Viridian grip laser, making target acquisition all but effortless. 380 defensive ammunition, the 911 comes with a flush 6-round and 7-round extended magazine. Approved for the most advanced and modern. Designed for life-saving defensive use at close range, the 911 features an ambidextrous safety and is perfectly matched with an AmeriGlo Pro-Glo green tritium front sight inside a yellow luminescent circle, and a tactical rack rear sight with green tritium inside of white luminescent circles. G10 Thin-line grips and a short reset, crisp 5-pound G10 trigger shoe by Hogue come together to give the feel of shooting a full-sized firearm. Springfield's Octo-Grip front strap texturing ensures a secure grip and is complimented by a G10 Octo-Grip textured mainspring housing. The lightweight 7075 T6 aluminum frame and black Nitride or stainless 416 steel slide measure 5.5 inches long and less than 4 inches high, with a snag-free profile that's undetectable under clothing. 380 is the perfect pistol for your EVERY day carry.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |