G&A's Holiday Gift Guide for Modern Sporting Rifles

November 20, 2013 By G&A Online Editors

Those of us who own AR-15s understand the sense of pride we take in accessorizing our modern sporting rifles. There's always a new piece of gear out there to make rifles more personalized and enjoyable.

Whether you're creating your own wish list or shopping for someone else, G&A has you covered. Come range time, our holiday gift guide for modern sporting rifles will have you singing yuletide carols to the tune of your favorite rifle.

DuraCoat Aerosol

Who says all Modern Sporting Rifles have to be black? DuraCoat Aerosol makes it quicker and easier than ever to apply a rugged new finish to your guns. The aerosol can eliminates the measuring and mixing of original DuraCoat, while still providing the same rugged protection against rust, corrosion, salt water and UV rays. The coating comes in a variety of colors, and can be applied to bare metal, Parkerizing, anodizing, wood and plastic. Each can provides enough coating for 2-4 firearms, with no baking or preheating required. Price: $34.95/can

Otis Ripcord

One-pass cleaning systems are quick, easy and effective, but the knock on them is that you can't punch out a stuck case or other obstruction. The new Otis Ripcord uses a Nomex fiber braid over a molded, rubberized core/cable that is rigid enough to remove obstructions. The Nomex fibers serve the dual role of brush and patch. The ends are also threaded if you feel the need to add components. Currently available for .22/.223 and .308. Price: $15

SureFire Magazines

When standard 30-round G.I. magazines won't cut it, SureFire 60- and 100- round magazines are just the ticket to keep you throwing rounds downrange. Compatible with all M4/M16/AR-15 variants, their simple design allows for field disassembly with no special tools required. The mags are constructed from anodized aluminum, with steel springs and a tough polymer follower to feed rounds reliably with no lubricants required. Price: $159 (60-round); $199 (100-round)

Trijicon VCOG 1-6x24mm

Though Trijicon's Accupoint scopes are both versatile and effective, the VCOG (Variable Combat Optical Gunsight) is the company's first low-range, variable-power optic designed specifically for military and tactical use. Available with a variety of LED-illuminated first focal plane reticle styles, this heavy-duty scope gives other high-end scopes a run for their money. Unlike most of its competitors, the VCOG features a rugged integral mount for attachment to Picatinny rails. Price: gallery=369,270.00

Blackhawk Diversion Bags

Blackhawk Diversion Bags are designed to disguise long guns in a few cleverly discrete ways. The bags come in several designs, resembling common luggage items which aren't usually associated with transporting firearms. Styles include courier, workout, skateboard and racquet bags. We've found the board style comfortably transports an AR-15, broken down at the take down pins. Price: $54 to $174

Daniel Defense Modular Float Rail 12.0

One of the slickest free floating handguards on the market is the Daniel Defense Modular Float Rail 12.0. This 12-inch handguard is made from 6061 T6 aluminum, with mil-spec type III hard coat anodizing. The rail comes with three 3-inch rail sections, that can be mounted at virtually any position on the rail — or not at all if you prefer a lightweight setup. Price: $255

DPMS Miculek Compensator

Named after and used by champion shooter Jerry Miculek, the DPMS Miculek Compensator is both simple and effective, making it an inexpensive muzzle device that is aggressive and very easy to clean. It has side ports only, so it does not specifically address muzzle jump. Shooters with handyman skills and a drill can add a port or two on top if they feel it's needed, but most are pretty happy without. Price: $49

Geissele SSA-E Trigger

There's a reason why some of the best competition, law enforcement and military shooters choose Geissele Triggers. The Geissele Super Semi-Automatic (SSA-E) Trigger is a drop-in unit that will bring any AR-15 from average Joe to rock star status in minutes. Price: $230

Pierce Munitions Ammo

Still having trouble finding ammo? Pierce Munitions has some of the most popular cartridges available, including .223 and .308. Depending on your specific application, Pierce also specializes in a variety of Ted Nugent hunting and personal defense ammunition. Price: Varies

Slide Fire SBS-308 Stock

For those with .308-caliber modern sporting rifles, you can now add more roar to your range time with the SBS-308 stock. Slide Fire Solutions has adapted their revolutionary firearm technology to be compatible with one of the most requested platforms to date. The SBS-308 was designed for installation on an Armalite AR-10 lower receiver equipped with a carbine-style receiver extension, or any firearm with similar dimensions. Price: $369.95

First Look: Savage Arms Introduces their KLYM Series

Rifles

First Look: Savage Arms Introduces their KLYM Series

The Savage's KLYM series guns feature carbon fiber stocks that take lightweight mountain rifles to a whole new level.

Handguns

Walther PDP Professional Law Enforcement Exclusive Duty Pistol

Handguns

Walther PDP Professional Law Enforcement Exclusive Duty Pistol

Walther's new Performance Duty Pistol line is quickly becoming a choice option for LE and civilian defensive use. To further support the LE mission, Walther is offering the PDP Professional exclusively to law enforcement. Out of the box, the slide is special cut for the Aimpoint ACRO red dot, which comes pre-installed on the PDP Professional. The entire package will be offered at a special discount for approved LE professionals.

Shotguns

The Do-All Scattergun: Winchester SXP Pump-Action Shotgun

Shotguns

The Do-All Scattergun: Winchester SXP Pump-Action Shotgun

When considering American sporting long arms, the name Winchester looms large among both shotgun and bolt-action rifle offerings. The spiritual successor to the classic Winchester Model 12 pump-action shotgun, the SXP family is replete with features and offers exceptional value. Two configurations to note are the SXP High Grade Field and the SXP Waterfowl Hunter Camo. Both guns are available in 12 or 20 gauge with 26- or 28-inch barrels. The biggest difference is the stock material, Turkish walnut for the High Grade and camouflaged composite for the Waterfowl. Also, the Waterfowl Hunter can be had with a 3-1/2-inch chamber for heavier duck and goose loads. Fast to shoot and easy on the shoulder, the SXP continues Winchester's legacy of excellence afield.

Handguns

High-Velocity Handgun: Smith & Wesson M&P 5.7

Handguns

High-Velocity Handgun: Smith & Wesson M&P 5.7

Beginning with revolvers and growing to include pistols, rifles and even a bullpup-style pump-action shotgun, Smith & Wesson's Military & Police (M&P) line has garnered a reputation for reliability in the hands of professional users and armed citizens, alike. Given its expansive catalog and a history that dates back to the mid-1800s, Smith & Wesson has been churning out a remarkable number of “firsts” in recent years. Add to that list its first 5.7x28mm firearm in the form of the M&P 5.7 pistol. The potential of the high-velocity cartridge is harnessed by S&W's brilliant Tempo barrel system, and the pistol offers an astounding 22-round capacity on top of standard features like the flat-face trigger and optic-ready slide. In form and function—including the new FDE finish—the M&P 5.7 continues the tradition of Smith & Wesson's military and police offerings, and ably expands the line to include the 5.7x28mm chambering.

Handguns

Classic Designs, Modern Features: Girsan Pistols From EAA

Handguns

Classic Designs, Modern Features: Girsan Pistols From EAA

European American Armory Corp. (EAA) has done a great job of partnering with foreign manufacturers to build and bring in firearms of interest to the U.S. market, and offer them at highly competitive prices. Girsan of Turkey is no exception. Three examples of the manufacturer's handguns available through EAA are the MCP35 PI LW, the MC 14T Tip-Up and the Witness2311. All these guns are modern renditions of classic firearms, updated to suit the needs and tastes of today's shooters. Featuring optic-ready slides, accessory rails and double-stack magazines, these Browning- and Beretta-inspired handguns want for nothing, and are more accessible than you may expect.

Handguns

The Original 5.7: FN Five-seveN MRD

Handguns

The Original 5.7: FN Five-seveN MRD

Popularity of the 5.7x28mm cartridge has never been greater, and shooters today owe a tip of the cap to the ammunition's creator, FN. Despite being the only game in town for nearly two decades, FN was not content to rest on its laurels. Recently, the company set out to update its 5.7 handgun offering, and the result is the FN Five-seveN MRD semiautomatic pistol. Utilizing delayed-blowback operation and a single-action trigger, the MRD is both accurate and a joy to shoot. Too, compared to earlier offerings, the MRD comes with enhanced ergonomics and an optic-ready slide. For those wanting to experience the power and precision of the 5.7x28mm cartridge and desire a high-quality handgun from the ammunition's original maker, look no further than the FN Five-seveN MRD.

Handguns

Best Ever Carry Gun? SIG Sauer P365 XMACRO

Handguns

Best Ever Carry Gun? SIG Sauer P365 XMACRO

SIG Sauer turned the polymer-frame pistol market on its ear when it launched the slim, high-capacity P365 micro-compact pistol. What ensued was a race to develop the best carry pistol, period. And, while the micro-compact design was ideal for many users, some shooters desired a little larger grip and additional onboard capacity. Here, the modular P365 design excelled, and the XMacro configuration utilizes the same firing system, but wears a larger frame, slide and barrel. Boasting 17-round capacity, an optic-ready slide and a dustcover accessory rail, the compact XMacro offers full-size utility in a portable package.

Suppressors

Buy One, Get One: Silencer Central Banish 22K-V2

Suppressors

Buy One, Get One: Silencer Central Banish 22K-V2

Silencer Central is giving away suppressors! Many new suppressor shoppers struggle between purchasing a versatile .30-caliber can or a lifetime of enjoyment in the form of a .22-caliber muzzle muffler. Struggle no more. With the qualifying purchase of a center-fire suppressor, Silencer Central is including a free Banish 22K-V2 rimfire suppressor. Customers simply pay the extra tax stamp fee, then sit back as Silencer Central simplifies suppressor shopping. The Banish 22K-V2 features all-titanium construction, four user-serviceable baffles for noise reduction, and a pint-size 3.25-inch profile, ideal for use on rimfire pistols.

Handguns

Chromatic Classic: Auto-Ordnance Stainless 1911

Handguns

Chromatic Classic: Auto-Ordnance Stainless 1911

All metal, just the way John Moses Browning intended. Followers of the .45 may rejoice as Auto-Ordnance has introduced a 1911 built primarily from forged and machined stainless steel, and chambered in the only caliber that matters. Features include a 5-inch barrel for a proper Government-size profile, as well as a full-length guide rod, extended beavertail, 20 lines-per-inch front- and backstrap checkering, and skeletonized triggers and hammers. The Stainless 1911s are available in four flavors: Savage Stainless, Northern Lights, Black Cherry, and Burnt Bronze. All the guns come with aluminum stocks and three-dot day sights, except the Savage Stainless which includes G-10 grips and is optionally available with night sights. The Auto-Ordnance Stainless 1911s are sure to stand out in a crowd.

Handguns

Free Ammo! Walther PDP Special

Handguns

Free Ammo! Walther PDP Special

Ultimately replacing the acclaimed PPQ family of semiautomatic pistols, Walther's PDP platform has become the brand's flagship handgun. Available in configurations for duty and defense, concealed carry and even competition, the PDP has been nothing short of a homerun for Walther and an exemplar of ergonomics and excellent triggers among its polymer-frame, striker-fire peers. Standing out in the lineup are the F-Series pistols. Available in 3.5- and 4-inch configurations, the F-Series PDPs were designed for shooters with smaller hands or reduced grip strength. In particular, Walther consulted with women in firearms industry, honing the F-Series to fit their needs. Changes included a reduced grip circumference, shorter trigger reach, and an easier-to-rack slide assembly made possible by an innovative two-piece striker system. The end result has been a hit with male and female shooters, alike. Now, qualified purchases of any PDP pistol will also include 100 rounds of ammunition to help buyers save money and shoot more.

Optics

Training Tips and Tools

Optics

Training Tips and Tools

Eric Poole, Editor of Guns and Ammo Magazine meets with Buck Buckner, Aimpoint Director of Training to discuss training tips when using a red dot sight. Using the tools built into our biology, red dots offer a faster and easier sight lineup from draw to trigger pull.

Optics

Simplicity vs Complexity

Optics

Simplicity vs Complexity

Eric Poole, Editor of Guns and Ammo Magazine meets with Buck Buckner, Aimpoint Director of Training to discuss the simplicities of using a red dot. From faster target acquisition to a simpler movement to get on target.