New Week, New Guns

And like that, we are back with another week. Of course, new product introductions have ramped up in the weeks around the industry’s annual trade show (Shooting Hunting Outdoors Trade Show). So, expect these weekly updates. And because of the vast breadth and sheer number of products being released, we will inevitably miss some. Things always get lost this time of year. It happens (with that, manufacturers should spread their releases throughout the year to garner more of the spotlight and leave a more significant impression on audiences). Here’s to another week of new products.

Auto-Ordnance Thompson TA050

The company that’s brought you civilian clones of Thompson Submachine guns, 1911s, and M1 Carbines decided to release a 50 BMG bolt-action rifle. Yes, you read that correctly. Out of nowhere, a company did something totally unexpected and perhaps cool. It appears Auto-Ordnance is going after a space that a single company has dominated for many years—Barret Firearms. The rifle sports a 29” barrel, weighs 25 pounds, uses a Magpul PRS Gen 3 stock and MOE+ grip, Timney trigger, and a gargantuan muzzle brake, and will ship with a wheeled hard case of some sort. I’m excited for this. Why? Murica. Because why not. Pricing and more info will be released at SHOT Show.

KelTec Rotary Barrel Clip Fed PR57

I’ll give KelTec credit. They are willing to experiment and create unique items. The PR57 is a lightweight pistol chambered in 5.7 NATO. It features a rotary barrel design and a clip-fed top-loading system (think C96). Unloaded, it weighs 13.86 ounces. Making it one of, if not the lightest in its category. It comes in black, FDE, and olive drab. KelTec describes it as an ideal carry option for first-time concealed carry buyers. It includes two 10-round stripper clips and an optics plate. It has an MSRP of $399 and will ship in Q1. Part of the logic behind the PR57 is that most firearm engagements are over in a matter of seconds, with only a few rounds being fired. The PR57's lightweight and easy-shooting ammunition inspires confidence in the end user. I think it’s cool, albeit weird (like most KelTec designs).

Mossberg Professional Series

I’m guessing this one came out before Mossberg was ready. Still, several significant publications have reported on it, so it’s safe to discuss it. (I imagine the folks at Mossberg wanted to split their two major releases up to get better dwell time.)

Mossberg unveiled nine new models in its Professional Series shotgun lineup, featuring enhancements designed for military, law enforcement, and civilian users (and then decided not to unveil it). Key improvements include heavy-walled barrels, optimized sights, an optic-ready receiver, and customization options such as Cerakote finishes and adjustable stocks. The series offers various configurations, including 6-shot, 7-shot, and 9-shot models, catering to diverse needs. Like the previously released “R” series, the Professional series of shotguns is a welcomed update to the stalwart line. I’m cool with this update. Hopefully, the prices won’t be outrageous.

Springfield Prodigy Compact

The Prodigy Compact continues Springfield’s successful Prodigy DS lineup. This 1911-style pistol is available in two barrel lengths: 4.25" and 3.5". Springfield's engineers have reduced the grip size to create an optimized double-stack 1911 for concealed carry. Additionally, the compact features a 15+1 capacity while maintaining a slim profile. Key features of the models include a durable Cerakote slide, a tritium front sight for low-light conditions, and an AOS optics mount system. The 3.5" variant weighs 25.5 oz. when empty and 38.5 oz. when loaded, offering exceptional concealment and comfort for users while the 4.25” model is ideal for a duty rig or bedside. I appreciate that Springfield is further investing in the Prodigy line. Although there were several issues at its introduction, they were quickly resolved, resulting in a solid interpretation of the double-stack 1911 at a—dare I say it—affordable price (for this category, that is).

Smith & Wesson No Lock Classic Series

As the name suggests, these are classic Smith revolvers with the frame lock removed. The models include the 36, 10, and 19. These will appeal to the traditionalist or modern collector.

Smith & Wesson 1854 Stealth Hunter

This is the same rifle Smith released but with a full tactical drip. The improvements include a large lever loop, a T6 aluminum handguard with 15 M-Lok slots, an extended top Picatinny rail, and a shorter 16” barrel. Oh yeah, as the name suggests, it’s all black everything. Smith is cashing in on the popularity of the Henry X-series and the Marlin Dark series of tacticool lever guns. Calibers include 44 mag, 45 Colt, and finally, 357 Magnum.

Smith & Wesson 1854

Smith finally introduced the 1854, their take on a modern lever gun, in 357 Magnum. Given the proliferation of suppressors, I’m surprised it took this long. Most 9mm cans will accept 38 special ammunition, making the lever rifle one of the quietest suppressor hosts on the market. Smith is adding 357 Magnum to all available models of the 1854.

Staccato HD

Staccato has launched the HD line of 2011 pistols, developed with insights from law enforcement and government users. This came as a surprise. I have a variety of thoughts on Staccato (most of which I won’t discuss on this platform), but I will commend them for doing something innovative. The key feature, or innovation, is its Glock-pattern magazine grip module. Incredible. Two thousand-eleven magazines—to put it nicely—are expensive (over $100 a pop for the Staccato ones). Going to a commonly available and affordable magazine alternative is smart. Add on that Staccato markets their pistols for duty use—now we are on to something (think, what do most departments carry? Glock 17s). Moreover, the HD has ambidextrous controls, enhanced slide serrations, a buffered recoil system, an improved optic mounting system, and the removal of the typical 1911-style grip safety. In its place, Staccato engineers developed internal drop safety (active firing pin block) to protect all that carry it. The other major update is the development of the HOST optic mounting system.

The first models are the Staccato P4, which features a 4-inch barrel and 18-round magazines and will be available for purchase on January 28 for $2499, and the Staccato P4.5, which has a 4.5-inch barrel and will be released in spring 2025 for $2699. For more details, visit staccato2011.com.

Holosun AEMS CORE & PRO X2

The AEMS CORE X2 is a generational update over the previous iteration. Holosun has improved the optical system that reduces parallax by 50% and a forward face light sensor to create a smarter AUTO mode (for PRO only). Additionally, they’ve included an Anti-Reflective device and a lower 1/3 co-witness mount.

HOLOSUN ARO-EVO (Advanced Rifle Optics Evolved)

The ARO-EVO is an upgraded Advanced Rifle Optic featuring a new 26mm housing for a larger sight picture and improved shooting performance. It includes a lower 1/3 co-witness pedestal mount and is designed to work with Holosun’s magnifier series. A separate anti-reflection lens cap will also be available. The ARO-EVO has a Special Purpose Reticle that accurately compensates for bullet drop and ranges, available in red, green, and gold options. Holosun is an incredibly innovative optics company and is truly leading the way. It’s unfortunate that American companies can’t follow suit.

Final Thoughts

The penultimate week before SHOT concluded with quite an interesting drop in new products. Most firearms released were surprises, especially the Staccato HD and the KelTec PR57. And I will commend manufacturers for trying new things and attempting to innovate—something that has been lost in the industry for several years. I expect SHOT releases to be both expected and surprising, with many continuations released and a few unknowns mixed in. Until next time.