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Bryant Ridge's Analysis: A "Trade Brand Name" shotgun is one that was made by a major maker (and before 1940) for and was sold by a wholesale sporting goods dealer, a retail chain store or an independent retailer who chose the name to go on the gun. The Western Field brand was associated with Western Auto Supply Company, which sold a wide variety of products, including firearms, under the Western Field name. The Model 19 itself was likely produced during the mid-20th century, with most prod …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Colt 1991 Series is a modern iteration of the classic M1911, maintaining many of the original features that made the M1911 so iconic. Its design keeps elements like the long trigger, flat mainspring housing, and recoil spring system, which offer both comfort and consistency in operation. The Series 80 models come equipped with a 5" barrel, solid aluminum trigger, and a lowered ejection port that enhances reliability, making it an ideal choice for shooters lookin …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The SKS is a semi-automatic rifle designed by Soviet arms designer Sergei Gavrilovich Simonov in 1945, notable for its distinctive features and historical significance. Though initially adopted by the Soviet Union and produced in large quantities from 1949 to 1958 at Tula and Izhevsk Arsenals, the SKS quickly became obsolete for frontline service with the Soviet military due to its lack of select-fire capability and a limited ten-round fixed magazine. These limitati …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Ruger 10/22 50th Anniversary Design Contest Rifle is a special edition of the iconic 10/22, produced exclusively in 2014 to celebrate half a century of this legendary .22 LR semi-automatic rifle. What sets this model apart is that it was designed through Ruger’s most extensive Voice of the Customer Program, where enthusiasts submitted their ideal anniversary edition concepts. After receiving nearly 40,000 votes, the winning design combined the best element …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: Since 1950, Smith & Wesson J-Frame revolvers have been a trusted companion. These compact firearms were purpose-built to handle full-power rounds while maintaining simplicity and reliability. Available in various calibers and featuring three distinct hammer designs, the Smith & Wesson J-Frame has earned its reputation as the most popular small-frame defense revolver on the market. One notable variant is the Smith & Wesson Model 63 .22/32 Kit Gun, crafted …