Dispatches from the bench, the range, and the industry floor. News, reviews, and field manuals from the Rifle Configurator team.

NRAAM 2026 Day 1 in Houston delivered seven major launches: SIG M400 Forge at $999, Springfield Heatseeker .308 pistol, Beretta 80X Cheetah Tactical, Stoeger STR-45 Combat, Springfield 1911 Garrison Target, Magpul EHG RG380, and Unity FAST FTC Holosun.

Stoeger uses NRAAM 2026 Booth #2813 as the hands-on debut for its 2026 lineup first shown at SHOT Show: the $649 STR-45 Combat .45 ACP (16+1, threaded barrel, suppressor-height sights), the STR-9 Thinline+ with a 19+1 full-size mag taking on the P365-XMACRO, the $949-$999 V7000 over/under, and the M3000 Sporting 30-inch ported semi-auto.

Magpul extends the Enhanced Handgun Grip line from the RXM 9mm down to Ruger's .380 ACP LCP MAX Micro. The EHG RG380 adds Magpul's TSP texture, an extended beavertail, and Vertec-style grip geometry to one of the best-selling pocket pistols on the market, all as a no-gunsmithing swap.

Beretta debuts the 80X Cheetah Tactical Launch Edition at NRAAM 2026: bronze anodized frame, blacked-out slide, factory-installed single-port compensator on a 4.4 inch threaded barrel, optic-ready slide with Holosun and Shield plate kits, Vertec grip profile, and three 15-round magazines. Starting at $1,049 MSRP.

Unity Tactical expands the FAST line at NRAAM 2026 with a Holosun-specific flip-to-center magnifier mount. 2.26 inch optical centerline, force-to-overcome detent, 7075-T6 aluminum, and a clean sight picture when paired with Holosun 403/503 red dots on a FAST Micro. $293 MSRP, Black or FDE.

SIG Sauer launches the M400 Forge at $999 MSRP with a factory TriggerTech two-stage trigger, Breek Arms Warhammer charging handle, Romeo MSR Gen II red dot, and a cold hammer forged barrel made on the same machinery as the MCX. Available in 16-inch rifle, 11.5-inch pistol, and 11.5-inch SBR configurations.

Springfield drops a 12-inch barreled, 22.5-inch overall .308 bolt-action into the Model 2020 line. Classified as a pistol because there's no stock, but mechanically a short-barreled precision rifle: Sharps Bros chassis, TriggerTech trigger, AICS magazines, 5/8x24 muzzle threads. $1,999 MSRP.

Springfield adds a target-grade 1911 Garrison with fully adjustable rear sights, a 5-inch match-grade forged stainless barrel, hot salt blued forged steel frame and slide, and checkered thinline wood grips. Available April 17, 2026 in .45 ACP (7+1) and 9mm (9+1) at $999 MSRP.

Glock officially confirmed a 15-round magazine for the G44 .22 LR training pistol, shipping to dealers in May 2026. The new magazine brings rimfire capacity to parity with the G19 for the first time since the G44 launched in 2020.

Hi-Point debuts a multi-caliber flow-through suppressor at NRAAM 2026. Additive-manufactured Titanium 64 (10.5 oz) or Inconel 718 (14.5 oz, full-auto rated), 7 inches long, 1.75 inch diameter, rated from .17 HMR through .30-06, 7mm Mag, and .308. Direct thread or HUB/QD mount with two stainless adapters included and a lifetime warranty.

Henry Repeating Arms modernizes the Mare's Leg with a 13.8-inch factory-threaded barrel (5/8x24), M-LOK polymer handguard, blued steel receiver, black synthetic pistol grip stock, fiber optic sights, and a large loop lever. Four calibers (H9 .30-30, H10 .45-70, H12 .357 Mag, H12 .44 Mag) at $1,129 MSRP, with a legal path to SBR conversion.

Vortex enters the handheld thermal market with the Veil 400, a 400x300 12-micron thermal monocular aimed at predator and hog hunters. Three viewing modes, four color palettes, 2.3x base magnification, 18650 rechargeable battery, photo/video capture, and VIP lifetime warranty at $1,499.99 MAP.

Taurus launches the GX2 T.O.R.O., an optics-ready version of its $300 compact 9mm. Direct-mount RMSc-footprint slide cut, 13+1 capacity, 3.38-inch barrel, Glock-pattern iron sight dovetails, and a stainless steel chassis at $299.99 MSRP. Four color combinations available.

Springfield Armory launches the SAINT Victor 5.5" 9mm PDW at $1,399. Direct blowback 9mm AR pistol with a 5.5-inch Melonite barrel, SB Tactical HBPDW brace, 32-round Colt-pattern magazine, free-float M-LOK handguard, and Tungsten Gray Cerakote finish.

FN Herstal unveils the PUREVIEW, the world's first holographic micro red dot sight. Features ImageGuide waveguide technology, IP68 rating to 35 meters, 14 brightness settings with auto-adjust, and tested across 25,000+ rounds. Designed as an integrated FN system component.

Magpul announces three new M-LOK control accessories: the SVG Short Vertical Grip ($24.95), Thumb Shelf ($24.95), and Index Stop ($19.95). All feature ambidextrous designs, TSP texture, and compatibility with octagonal aluminum handguards only. Shipping May 2026.

Taurus enters the PDW market with the RPC 9mm, featuring a roller-delayed operating system for flatter recoil, 4.5-inch threaded barrel, 32-round capacity, fully ambidextrous controls, and M-LOK handguard. $939.99 base, $1,098.99 with Strike Industries FSA brace.

Smith & Wesson launches the Bodyguard 2.0 Revolver: a 5-shot .38 Special +P with ambidextrous top-mounted cylinder release, upgraded orange dot front sight, forged aluminum frame, and polymer grip module. Budget-friendly entry-level snub-nose at approximately 14 oz.

CMC Triggers enters the bolt-gun market with the Remington 700 Adjustable Ultra Precision Trigger Group. Drop-in install, external pull-weight adjustment from 8 oz to 3.5 lbs, factory preset at 2.5 lbs, flat (SKU 63501) and curved (SKU 63503) bow options, $209.99 MSRP. Shipping to dealers now.

Q LLC introduces The Lefty, a 5.56 NATO / 6mm ARC suppressor using Low Blow directional flow technology to reduce gas blowback. 3D-printed stainless core, 14.2 oz, Quickie mount, full-auto rated.

IWI US launches the ARAD 5, a short-stroke gas piston AR-15 with a patented CamLok quick-change barrel, semi-monolithic upper, 2-position suppressor gas regulator, and standard AR-15 lower compatibility. 16-inch 4150 CMV barrel, B5 SOPMOD stock, $1,499.99 MSRP.

Lipsey's introduces the Ruger RXM COA Edition, combining the modular RXM pistol with Aimpoint's COA red dot. Available in 15-round and 17-round configurations with three frame colors: Black, Gray, and OD Green. A-CUT direct mount, Glock 19 pattern mags, and closed-emitter durability.

Springfield Armory shortens the SA-35 Hi-Power to a 4-inch barrel for concealed carry. Forged carbon steel frame and slide, factory-tuned trigger with no magazine disconnect, recontoured hammer, 15-round capacity, and $799 MSRP.

HK Germany shrinks the VP9 into a 6.02-inch, 17.64 oz micro-compact with a serialized chassis, Vortex Defender-CCW factory optic, dual optic plate support (RMSc + RMR-CC), and the same paddle release and trigger feel as the full-size VP9. $1,049 OR, $1,399 OE. Four SKUs, full specs, and CC9/P365 comparison.

Springfield Armory launches the fourth-generation XD with a factory-milled optic-ready slide, flat-face trigger, aggressive frame texturing, passive grip safety, and 16+1 capacity. The XD Mod.4 OSP 9mm ships at $399.

Springfield Armory equips three Echelon pistols with the Aimpoint COA closed-emitter red dot via the A-CUT wedge-locking interface. The 4.0C compact, 4.0FC full-grip compact, and 4.5F full-size models all ship at $1,119.

Oil infrastructure attacks, AI-driven semiconductor demand, and geopolitical instability are creating supply chain pressure on ammunition, optics, and emergency gear. Prioritized buying checklist: ammunition, magazines, optics, spare parts, and general emergency preparedness.

Germany's BKA confirms the HK SP7 cannot be converted to full-auto and is not a war weapon. The Bundesanzeiger determination, published March 13, 2026, classifies the SP7 as a pistol and the PCC7 as a carbine. HK USA CEO gives 8/10 odds on US import.

Radian Weapons launches the Vertex CBX (curved bow) and FBX (flat bow) single-stage AR-15 triggers at $239.99. Both feature TriggerTech Zero Creep Technology with 440C stainless steel internals and Frictionless Release Technology roller sear.

Walker's ShotSync is a $59.99 wrist-worn shot timer combining microphone and accelerometer sensors at 1.6 kHz. Bluetooth 5.2 pairs with the Walker's Link app to track draw times, split times, and session history from .22 LR through competition calibers.

Smith & Wesson Performance Center drops two TALO-exclusive M&P9 M2.0 pistols with factory Strike Industries compensators, fluted barrels, tritium night sights, and four magazines. Copper PVD polymer at $899, Metal Gold PVD at $1,149.

Glock officially confirmed 15-round Slimline magazines for the G43X and G48, plus a new 15-round G44 magazine, all shipping May 2026. The OEM GL79269 comes in at $32.73 MSRP with no aftermarket mag release required, ending the Shield Arms S15's run as the default capacity upgrade.

Smith & Wesson launches the Performance Center Equalizer Carry Comp, combining the easy-rack EZ slide with Shield Plus capacity. Features Power Port compensation, Shield RMSc optic cut, Ameriglo night sights, grip and thumb safeties, and ships with 10/13/15-round magazines.

Walther debuts the P14 and P14K at Enforce Tac 2026, purpose-built for KSK and KSM with integrated compensator, Aimpoint ACRO P-2 direct mount, B&T Impuls-XM suppressor, and extreme environment certification. 3,200 P14 and 3,300 P14K units on order.

Czech manufacturer KMR Precision Arms debuts at IWA 2026 with a full lineup of CNC-machined, CZ-75 derived competition pistols. The Spectra, Orca, and S-02 feature a proprietary BRS barrel stabilization system, and KMR Trade LLC in Nevada signals US market entry.

The DD M4A1 RIS III delivers sub-MOA accuracy across multiple independent tests, a CHF barrel rated for 20,000+ rounds, and the same 6-bolt lockup that made the RIS II a SOCOM standard. Full specs, RIS III vs RIS II breakdown, 11.5" vs 14.5" buying guide, and head-to-head with Geissele Super Duty.

CZ pairs the P-10 C Ported with the Aimpoint COA red dot via the mechanically locked A-CUT interface. Factory ported barrel, duralumin magwell, three magazines (15/17/19 rounds), and Nocturne-style sights.

Everything we know about the Modlite OKW v2: 95,000 candela and 1,300 lumens in the same modular platform. Full specs, v1 vs v2 comparison, beam analysis, and head-to-head with Cloud Defensive REIN 3.0 and SureFire M640DFT Turbo.

The P226 beat the Beretta in the 1984 XM9 trials, became the Navy SEAL sidearm for 26 years, and evolved into the Legion and XFIVE competition platforms. The complete history for 226 Day.

Meprolight introduces the STING Lumina, a compact dual-wavelength laser pointer combining visible laser, IR laser, and adjustable IR illuminator in a MIL-STD-810-rated package under 250g. Powered by a single AA battery.

CZ unveils the TS 3 Orange at IWA 2026: a hand-fitted, optic-ready competition pistol with direct-mount slide cut for RMR, RMSc, DeltaPoint Pro, and Holosun-K. SAO trigger breaks at 1.3 lbs, cold hammer forged bull barrel, G10 grips, 20+1 capacity.

CZ wins an open international tender to supply the Bundeswehr's P13, based on the CZ P-10 C OR in Flat Dark Earth. CZ is showcasing the P13 at Enforce Tac 2026, marking one of the largest military pistol wins in CZ's 90-year history.

SIG Sauer introduces the P365-FUSE COMP with a slide-integrated expansion chamber, ROMEO-X SIG-LOC Compact enclosed optic, 3.7-inch barrel, and 21-round capacity in a 7.2-inch package.

KelTec unveils the KP50 with a redesigned bottom-insert, drop-free magazine system, 50-round standard capacity, and multiple launch variants ranging from $899 to $1,399 MSRP.

Hands-on review of the AS Designs ARC-Fire forced reset selector after 400 suppressed rounds on a SIG MCX Spear LT 11.5 with Geissele SSA-E. MCX install tips, safety selector complaints, and comparison to Partisan Disruptor.

Hands-on review of the Radian Ramjet + Afterburner compensated barrel for the Glock 43X MOS. Recoil reduction, accuracy, flash, concussion, holster fit, and whether it belongs on a carry gun.

Heckler & Koch introduces the VP9A1-X crossover and VP9A1-X Tactical with threaded barrel. Compact slide, full-size grip, optics-ready from $1,049.

Complete comparison of forced reset triggers and super safeties for AR-15: Partisan Disruptor FRT, Arc Fire, Atrius FRS, and Mars Super Safety. Performance, pricing, legality, and which system fits your build.

The Atrius FRS is a drop-in forced reset selector that delivers rapid semi-auto fire at $249. Unlike FRT triggers, it works with your existing mil-spec FCG and reduces rifle wear.

Q unveils the Boombox after 700+ days of development: a lightweight AR-10 pattern rifle in 8.6 Blackout featuring 1:3 twist rate, two-piece bolt carrier, pinch barrel system, and bufferless operation.

Primary Weapons Systems unveils the MK216 MOD 2 at SHOT Show 2026: a .308 piston rifle with proprietary bore evacuator technology, user-tunable gas block, and 3,000+ round suppressed maintenance intervals.

Palmetto State Armory confirms the X9 delayed-blowback handgun platform is returning to development after overwhelming customer demand. Design changes are coming following operating system modifications.

Everything that matters from SHOT Show 2026: computational optics from Maztech and Revic, the suppressor boom, rifles from Geissele and Noveske, PSA's modular AXR ecosystem, and 30+ product announcements.

SIG Sauer teams up with world champion shooter Daniel Horner for the P365-DH3 series: competition-inspired carry pistols featuring slide-integrated expansion chamber, 3.7" barrel, and polymer or AXG alloy grip options.

Primary Arms unveils the PLx Compact 1.5-12x36 RDB with Japanese ED glass, diffractive Red Dot Bright reticle, AutoLive motion-sensing illumination, and updated Top Cap Reflex Mount V2.

Hands-on review of the Partisan Disruptor FRT at $299: easy drop-in install and reliable forced reset mode, but a gritty semi-auto break and oversized non-ambi safety selector.

SHOT Show 2026 delivered quality firearms and gear under $800: Ruger American Gen II, Lyman Sonicore suppressors starting at $199, Kimber CDS9 Classic, Diamondback SDR-A, and digital night vision at $500.

SHOT Show 2026 marks the transition away from the AR-9 era. Caracal unveils MP5-compatible CMP9/CMP9K pistols, B&T displays APC9SD suppressed variants, PSA introduces the modular AXR PDW, and specialized concealment gear emerges for PCC platforms.

SHOT Show 2026 marks a watershed for concealed carry: compensated pistols go mainstream, optic cuts become universal, and the iron-sights-only naked pistol is officially dead. From Staccato HD C4X to Taurus TX9.

The $0 NFA tax stamp splits the AR-15 market in two directions. Premium manufacturers like Noveske, Geissele, and Daniel Defense double down on bespoke integrated systems, while the rest of the industry expands modularity with lever-action hybrids, tool-free triggers, and ecosystem-compatible suppressors.

The elimination of the $200 NFA tax stamp on January 1, 2026 sparked an unprecedented suppressor boom at SHOT Show 2026, with innovations spanning 3D-printed flow-through designs, radically cooler-running technology, and sub-$300 price points.

Fire control systems take center stage at SHOT Show 2026. Maztech, Revic, and Burris deliver scopes with onboard ballistics, environmental sensors, and heads-up displays. Thermal resolution jumps to 1280×1024. Traditional optics from Nightforce and Leupold still impress with mechanical innovation.

Seekins Precision unveils the SIC at SHOT Show 2026: an $8,900 modular bolt-action precision rifle supporting 7 calibers from 6.5 Creedmoor to .338 Lapua, with tool-less caliber swaps designed for U.S. Special Operations.

Faxon Firearms debuts Ion and CoreSync suppressors with 3D-printed titanium construction, modular multi-caliber kits, integrated carbon scrapers, and the MuzLok mounting system that eliminates timing headaches.

Colt unveils the Enhanced Patrol Rifle II series and new M4/M5 braced pistols at SHOT Show 2026. The EPR II modernizes the 6920 with M-LOK and ambidextrous controls, while the M5 introduces a fully ambidextrous lower receiver.

B&T unveils the GHM9 Retro with top-mounted charging handle and KH9-inspired design at SHOT Show 2026. Plus expanded Print-X titanium suppressors and continued APC platform refinement.

LMT Defense showcases hybrid MRP uppers with M-LOK, updated DMR upper with integrated Arca Swiss rail for precision shooting, and the compact 13.5-inch Shovelnose .308 piston rifle at SHOT Show 2026.

Daniel Defense debuts the DD4 X1 military rifle from Project Hunter, two 3D-printed titanium suppressors (MUTE 30Ti and NULL 9Ti), and the GL/SSC grenade launcher at SHOT Show 2026.

Ambient Arms debuts the EXO suppressor with patent-pending Ambient Intake technology at SHOT Show 2026. Jet-engine-inspired cooling keeps the can 75% cooler and 15dB quieter than competitors. Titanium at $1,349, Inconel at $1,399.

Flux Defense debuts the Raider 365 Ultralight polymer chassis at $499 MSRP. SIG now sells complete P365-FLUX packages directly: base at $1,569.99 and TACKIT at $1,719.99 with light, magazines, and holster.

SIG Sauer expands the P211 lineup with the GT4 carry model and GT5 competition pistol. Both feature P320 magazine compatibility, direct-mount optics, and a $2,100 street price that undercuts traditional 2011 platforms.

Magpul unveils ODG/MCT/MCB PMAG colors, AMAG P365 magazines, RXM Sub-Compact grip frames, Hunter Lite bolt-action stocks, DAKA GRID organizer, and the ZEV x Magpul FDP folding defensive platform.

AS Designs unveils the Arc V2 forced reset trigger (FRT/super safety) at SHOT Show 2026: improved smoothness, reduced system drag, selector throw options, and expanded platform compatibility for HK and B&T systems.

Kel-Tec showcases the KS7 Gen 2 shotgun, integrally suppressed SUB CQB carbine, and the innovative PR-3AT top-loading rotary barrel pistol at SHOT Show 2026. Plus: KelTec Direct enables factory-to-consumer sales.

Strike Industries debuts under the Strike Defense Group umbrella with 30+ new products including the redesigned P90 chassis featuring improved ergonomics, adjustable cheek riser, and internal cable management.

Advanced Armament Co returns to firearms manufacturing with the MPW Series: suppressor-optimized rifles in 5.56, .300 BLK, 6mm ARC, and .338 ARC featuring ambidextrous controls and enhanced gas management.

Noveske unveils the 5th Generation AR platform with cleaner cable management, optional SD Handguard with heat shield, ARCA rail integration, and new .338 ARC and .300 BLK optimized systems.

Smith & Wesson debuts the M&P FPC in 5.7x28mm with magazine compatibility to the M&P 5.7 pistol, plus Gemtech's first 3D-printed titanium suppressor optimized for the cartridge.

SureFire announces three new products at SHOT Show 2026: the XC3 Sub subcompact handgun light with 1,000 lumens, M640T Turbo Scout Light Pro with 70,000 candela, and SOCOM6-MINI4 suppressor for 6mm ARC.

Modlite Systems announces three products at SHOT Show 2026: OKW v2 weapon light (95,000cd/1,300lm), Noxon ANARK EDC flashlight with dual-button interface, and FUZE integrated switch system.

FightLite Industries debuts the DFX belt-fed upper at SHOT Show 2026: a streamlined, affordable belt-fed AR-15 upper with dual-feed capability at $3,999, saving $2,500 vs the MCR.

Law Tactical introduces the GEN-S folding stock adapter at SHOT Show 2026: stainless steel construction, 12.5% lighter housing, and improved durability with locking lug, locking latch, and threaded flange design.

Shield Arms debuts the DS20 and DS18 at SHOT Show 2026: flush-fit magazines delivering 20 rounds for Glock 17 and 18 rounds for Glock 19, with extended 24-round versions staying USPSA compliant.

Shadow Systems unveils the U526 rifle and E526 pistol at SHOT Show 2026: AR-pattern platforms built in-house with custom triggers, furniture, bolt carriers, and mil-spec gas blocks.

Palmetto State Armory unveils the AXR Series: a modular ecosystem spanning handguns, rifles, shotguns, and PDWs built around a single serialized Modular Fire Control unit.

Staccato unveils the HD C4X at SHOT Show 2026 starting at $3,499. That's nearly double a ZEV OZ9 and $1,100 more than Sig's P211 GTO—excessive even for tactical pistols.

Hands-on review of the SIG Spear LT 11.5 inch conversion kit after 1,000+ rounds. Excellent suppressed performance and reliability, but QC issues require attention out of the box.

FN America relaunches the iconic SCAR platform with hydraulic buffered bolt carrier, improved triggers, full ambidextrous controls, and purpose-built QD suppressors at legacy pricing.

Geissele unveils their most ambitious lineup yet: GFW ultra-compact platform, 6mm ARC-optimized GFR Mod 1, expanded bolt-action rifles, and the USSOCOM-adopted MRGG Mark 1 precision gas gun.

EOTech unveils the EXPS3 HD holographic and EFLX CE enclosed pistol optic. The EXPS3 HD finally adds shake-awake; the EFLX CE delivers 25,000 hour battery and enclosed emitter.

Holosun debuts compact innovations at SHOT Show 2026: HM3X-MICRO magnifier, IRIS-ARC IR laser, EPS-CORE budget enclosed optic, 407COMP for compensated slides, and refreshed X3 series with enhanced glass.
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