Blog

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Stevens Model 87D, produced by Savage Arms Corporation, is a notable example of mid-20th-century American rimfire rifle design. Introduced as part of the broader Model 87 series, the 87D stood out for its innovative "gill gun" semi-automatic action, named for the distinctive slotted ejection port on the right side of the receiver, which resembled the gills of a fish. This action allowed the rifle to operate in both semi-automatic and manual modes—semi-auto for …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: Introducing the Girsan Witness2311SC Brat, a compact and highly capable handgun that brings innovation to the concealed carry market. Manufactured by EAA and Girsan, the Brat is a double-stack 1911 designed to offer impressive capacity and performance in a small, concealable package. With its 3.4-inch barrel, it’s purpose-built for everyday carry without sacrificing shootability or control. Available in both 9mm and .45 ACP, the Brat provides users with substantial …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Smith & Wesson Model 559 is a 9mm, traditional double-action (DA/SA) semi-automatic pistol featuring a full steel frame and steel slide. It was developed as the all-steel counterpart to the alloy-framed Model 459 and is equipped with a 14-round double-stack magazine. The pistol features a 4-inch barrel and was offered in either a matte blued or nickel finish. Sights consist of a 1/8" serrated ramp front sight paired with a drift-adjustable rear sight for windage, …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Smith & Wesson Model 460V is a powerhouse revolver engineered for serious hunters, adventurers, and those needing uncompromising stopping power in the most demanding environments. Built on S&W's massive X-Frame—the strongest revolver frame in their lineup—the 460V is chambered for the high-velocity .460 S&W Magnum cartridge, with the versatility to also chamber .454 Casull and .45 Colt rounds. This adaptability makes the Model 460V one of the …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: By the early 1980s, the buying public had made it clear that they preferred stainless steel revolvers, so in 1986, Colt upgraded the Trooper Mark V to stainless steel and changed the barrel to a full under-lug-shrouded type. Other than the barrel profile and use of stainless, the gun is the same as the Mark V. Colt named the new model the King Cobra, continuing its use of snake-named revolvers. As a first for Colt, a Cobra head was part of the barrel stamp, breaking with …