GUNS 2023

by Eve Flanigan

“Lightweight” and “easy” are two hallmarks of the new crop of firearms.

For 2023, retailers will see the emergence of some interesting and promising trends. The word “lightweight” appears in a majority of manufacturers’ descriptions of their new guns, with “easy” following not far behind. Increasingly, knowledgeable consumers are looking for guns that empower them to be better, whether they’re busting clays, taking down game, or enhancing their personal safety. For most, a lighter firearm means easier manipulation and less fatigue at the end of the day or shift. When companies step up and address consumer feedback with improved products, everyone wins.

Other interesting developments include the rise of the 2011-style single-action pistol. Competitive shooters were the first to turn on to the benefits of greater capacity in the responsive, 1911-inspired format. Recently, the trend is growing within the non-competition market also. And while the current season has seen less excitement over new rifle calibers, the 5.7x28mm is enjoying a revival. It’s easy to understand why, as the little cartridge performs well in both handguns and short- and mid-range rifle applications. And it does so with while delivering very little in the way of recoil, providing a way for any new or seasoned shooter to enjoy multiple applications from the same load.

RIFLES

BERGARA

Bergara continues to push the envelope of accuracy via a pair of ground-breaking technologies with their carbon barrels and carbon stocks.

First is a development Bergara calls the B-14 Squared Concept. This involves adding a proprietary carbon-fiber monocoque stock to the line, the internal structure of which provides greater rigidity and strength.

The new Crest takes advantage of the B-14 Squared Concept by utilizing the carbon-fiber monocoque stock paired to a 410 stainless-steel 20- or 22-inch barrel. Other features include a 90-degree bolt-throw angle, cone-shaped bolt-nose ejector (which assures smooth feeding), a sliding plate extractor, and a hinged floor plate or detachable magazine, which accepts ACIS-sized magazines. The two-position safety is part of the trigger assembly. It allows the rifle to be unloaded while in the safe position. Finished in Sniper Gray Cerakote. Unloaded weight is 6.8 pounds. SRP: $1,699.

Second, Bergara adds carbon barrels to some of their Wilderness line. The HMR Carbon Wilderness features the Bergara B-14 action that includes a springloaded ejector, side-mounted bolt stop, and a fluted 4140 chromoly steel one-piece-bolt body. It also features the carbon barrel in (20, 22, or 24 inches, depending on the caliber) and accepts an ACIS-sized magazine. Other features include a side-mounted bolt stop and a 90-degree bolt-throw angle. The two-position safety is part of the trigger assembly. It allows the rifle to be unloaded while the safety is engaged.

Available calibers are 6.5 PRC, .308 Win., and .300 Win. Mag. Unloaded weight is 7.15 pounds. SRP: starts at $1,599. Like all other Bergara rifles, it delivers sub-MOA accuracy.

The Ridge Carbon Wilderness also utilizes a carbon-fiber barrel (20, 22, or 24, inches, depending on caliber). It is available in a gray Cerakote stock in 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, .308 Win., and .300 Win. Mag. Unloaded weight is 6.4 pounds. SRP: Starts at $1,399.

Booth #12219

(bpioutdoors.com)

CHIAPPA FIREARMS

The Little Badger Take Down Xtreme is the newest addition to the Little Badger series of survival rifles from Chiappa Firearms. A simple knob transforms this rifle into a packable two-piece gun that fits perfectly in its floating, water-resistant tube. Weighing only 2.9 pounds, the Little Badger Take Down Xtreme offers a next-level advantage for shooters and hunters looking to achieve complete versatility packed into a minimalist design. Booth #12853

(chiappafirearms.com)

CHRISTENSEN ARMS

Christensen Arms continues the effort to please backcountry hunters with the addition of two Optifade camo patterns on their Mesa FFT rifles. Choices are Optifade Subalpine on the stock, with black nitride barrel/action, or a stock with Optifade Elevated II camo and tungsten-finish barrel and action.

A wide range of rifles are made for each camo design. The Subalpine pattern is offered in four different chamberings and barrel lengths of 20 or 22 inches. Or choose the Mesa Elevated II with a 20-inch barrel and three different chamberings. This model is made to be light and ready for long days afield, with a base weight of 5.5 pounds. A removable radial muzzle brake is included on all Mesa FFTs. All are backed by Christensen Arms’ sub-MOA guarantee. SRP: begins at $1,699.99.

Booth #11816

(christensenarms.com)

CVA

The CVA Cascade XT (X-Treme) sports weight-reducing flutes and a radial muzzle break as standard equipment. The 4140 carbon-steel No. 5 taper barrel in Cerakote Graphite Black is the heaviest in the Cascade Series, designed to provide superior accuracy capability. The threaded muzzle will also accept a suppressor. The two-position safety is conveniently located for natural and instantaneous operation. And loading is a breeze with its four-round (shortaction), flush-fit, detachable magazine. Available in 22- or 24-inch barrel lengths in Realtree Hillside camo. Available calibers are 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win., .450 Bushmaster, 350 Legend, 6.5 PRC, 7mm Rem. Mag., and .300 Win. Mag. Unloaded weight is 7.5 pounds. SRP: $850. Booth #12219

(bpioutdoors.com.com)

CZ-USA

The 600 Alpha line of rifles has nine chamberings: 7.62x39, .223 Remington, .224 Valkyrie, 6mm Creedmoor, .300 Win. Mag., .308 Win., 6.5 Creedmoor, .30-06, and 6.5 Precision Rifle Cartridge.

Dubbed as “the rifle that can do it all,” CZ opted to reduce weight with a polymer stock and aluminum frame while preserving it in the semi-heavy barrel, a combination that should make for a mobile and accurate shooting experience. Its target market is the hunter with appreciation of the technical advantages of benchrest rifle design.

The detachable, locking magazine holds three or five rounds, depending on caliber. The black polymer stock has serrated grip zones and such features as a parallel comb and vertical grip, touches borrowed from the competitive precision-rifle arena. Barrel lengths range from 18 inches in the 7.62x39 to 24 inches in other calibers.

Although the weights and calibers of the Alpha vary widely, the SRP does not. It’s $749. Each comes with CZ’s sub-MOA guarantee. Booth #12654

(cz-usa.com)

MOSSBERG

Mossberg is now offering the latest Hornady Precision Rifle Cartridge, the 7mm PRC, in its series of Patriot Predator bolt-action rifles. Designed to outperform existing 7mm cartridges in a standard long-action rifle, the 7mm PRC is a match-grade cartridge that delivers consistent velocity and repeatable accuracy. As such, the 7mm PRC is the perfect “match” for Mossberg’s suppressor-ready Patriot Predator platform. Two synthetic-stocked models are available, both of which feature a barrel length of 24 inches and a 1:8 twist rate to maximize the performance of the 7mm PRC cartridge.

The Patriot Predator bolt-action is based on Mossberg’s proven twin-lug push-feed machined-steel action, which is fed from a flush-fit polymer magazine. The free-floating, carbon-steel fluted barrel is threaded for a suppressor or muzzle brake and includes a protective thread cap.

For the addition of optics, the Patriot Predator is equipped with a receiver-mounted Picatinny rail. Patriot rifles feature Mossberg’s patented LBA (Lightning Bolt Action) user-adjustable trigger with a 2- to 7-pound range of adjustment for consistent shot placement. Rounding out this full-featured rifle is an oversized bolt handle, a spiral-fluted bolt, and sling swivel studs.

Stock options include a Flat Dark Earth stock with matte blue metal finish and TrueTimber Strata camouflaged stock with complementing Patriot Brown Cerakote metal finish. SRP: $519-$616.

The Patriot LR Tactical Rifle line consists of three models: 6.5 Creedmoor (22-inch barrel), 6.5 PRC (24-inch barrel), and .308 Win. (22-inch barrel). The stock is user-adjustable for length of pull by the use of three spacers, and the comb/cheekrest height is user-adjustable up to two inches.

The MDT stock has aluminum V-Block bedding for improved accuracy and an M-LOK compatible forend. Other standard features include a patented LBA adjustable trigger, suppressor-ready threaded barrel with removable cap and an 11-degree match crown, oversized bolt handle, spiral fluted bolt, topmount Picatinny rail/scope base, and 7-round or 10-round MDT AICS-style magazine. The patented LBA Adjustable Trigger is user-adjustable from 2 to 7 pounds. The trigger guard is oversized for use with gloved hands, and there is an integrated magazine-release lever.

Booth #12832

(mossberg.com)

RUGER

Ruger’s breakout design, the LC Carbine, chambered in 5.7x28mm, may take some retailers by surprise. But, considering that Ruger reawakened the 5.7 market about a year ago with the Ruger-5.7 Pistol, maybe it’s not such a surprise after all.

The design is a fresh interpretation in the semi-auto carbine category. Space is saved with bolt-over-barrel configuration, and the pistol grip doubles as the magazine well. But its compact utility doesn’t end there. A folding stock and adjustable length of pull make it portable and ready for youth or adult shooters. Blazing ballistics and low recoil of the 5.7 load qualify it as a candidate for long shots on vermin, when fitted with a magnifying optic, or target practice or pest control at closer ranges using the included fold-down iron sights installed on the LC’s full-length Picatinny rail. Those who want to avoid scaring coyotes or hogs can add a suppressor to the threaded 16.25-inch barrel.

Ruger packed a lot of handy features into this 5.9-pound package. There’s an M-LOK rail on the forend for accessories, and multiple QD sling sockets are included. The safety is ambidextrous; the charging handle is reversible. This should be a great gun for learning the basics and for real work in the outdoors. Low-capacity and fixed-stock models suited to restrictive states are available, too. SRP: $979. Booth #72327

(ruger.com)

SAVAGE

Early 2023 marks the release of a re-designed straight-pull Impulse big-game rifle, the Impulse Mountain Hunter. In response to customer requests for a lighter rifle that’s easier to tote over long distances in the western backcountry, Savage shaved off some bulk on the earlier Impulse, but retained beloved features like the AcuTrigger and AccuStock. The carbon fiber-wrapped 22- or 24-inch stainless-steel barrel by Proof Research will deliver accuracy for those across-canyon shots. Also on board is a muzzle break. The dark gray synthetic stock is fitted with a one-piece 20 MOA Picatinny rail, ready to carry a suitable scope. The aluminum receiver and overall emphasis on lightness should please any big-game hunter whose pursuit requires hiking. It’ll be available in nine popular chamberings for big game. SRP: $2,437.

Never loathe to embrace new cartridges, Savage also announced that the existing Apex, Impulse, Timberline, High Country, and UltraLite lines will now be chambered in 7mm PRC. This new cartridge, launched by Hornady, boasts a high ballistic coefficient and uses common, temperature-stable, magnum-speed propellants. Prices range from $709 to $2,437, depending on model and specs.

The 110 Carbon Predator joins the iconic Model 110 bolt-action family. Weighing in at trim 6.5 pounds, the rifle features the user-adjustable AccuTrigger, a crisp, matte-black carbon-steel receiver, and a carbon-fiber-wrapped PROOF Research stainless rifled barrel with threaded muzzle. Other key features include an AccuStock with AccuFit Technology and an AICS detachable-box magazine. Available calibers are 6mm ARC., .223 Rem., .22-250 Rem., .308 Win., 6.5 Creedmoor, and .300 BLK. SRP: $1,695. Booth #12821

(savagearms.com)

shotguns

AMERICAN TACTICAL

American Tactical is doing both stateside manufacturing and importing of guns these days. Reflecting that development, the company has dropped “Imports” from its name. That said, it remains in the import game, as evidenced by a new Turkish import—a Mossy Oak Turkey Camo edition of the Cavalry over-and-under. Its three-inch chambers are available in 12 and 20 gauge and .410 bore. A fiber-optic sight sits at the end of the 22-inch blued barrel. The aluminum receiver is drilled and tapped for a Weaver rail. Five chokes are included. SRP: $699.95. Booth #72405

(americantactical.us)

BENELLI

Benelli rose to meet consumer demand with new 28-gauge guns in the Super Black Eagle 3 (SBE 3) series. This semi-auto has a three-inch chamber and numerous synthetic stock patterns. It is available in two barrel lengths. Shooters in tight, close-range environments should be pleased with this maximum 5.6-pound shotgun that has glove-ready controls for tough, cold-weather hunts. SRP: starts at $1,799. Also new is a pump shotgun—the 20-gauge Nova Turkey. It has a 24-inch barrel and a Mossy Oak Bottomlands finish. Benelli says this gun is tough, reliable, yet light for the run-and-gun turkey hunter. Safety was also in mind, as the design allows the chamber to be cleared while not autoloading the next round in the tube. The Nova Turkey also is priced to allow the entry-level hunter to score his or her own Benelli for only $559. Booth #13638

(benelliusa.com)

CHARLES DALY

Previously only available in 12 gauge, 20 gauge, and .410 bore, the 202A is now offered in a 28-gauge and a .410 compact model. The break-open 202A aluminum frame not only delivers versatility and affordability, but makes for a lightweight yet exceptionally strong shotgun that will handle 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells reliably. The 202A is constructed with a checkered walnut stock and forend complete with a rubber recoil pad. Chrome-lined, vent-rib barrels with extractors feature Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke threads and include five extended choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F). The aluminum receiver is laser-engraved with a classic-style design featuring a hunting dog. The 202A also features a single-selective trigger with mechanical reset and a fixed fiber-optic front sight.

Booth #12853

(charlesdaly.com)

CZ-USA

The just updated 712 semi-auto, known for soft recoil, is an economical, do-everything scattergun that will move from clays to game with ease. The 712 G3 has a matte-black receiver and barrel, backed by two choices of camo patterns on a synthetic stock or a checkered walnut stock. Barrel length is 20 to 28 inches, depending on package. Two interchangeable pistons allow the user to customize recoil from soft, for clay sports, to stronger for game loads. It’ll accommodate 2.75- and 3-inch shells. Five choke tubes are included for further refinement of shot patterns.

Ergonomic updates include a thicker recoil pad and taller comb for quick, comfortable handling. The 712 G3 includes a stock/receiver shim system to accommodate left-handed shooters. An oversize, front-of-trigger safety and charging handle keep it easy to use while wearing gloves. SRP: $579-649 Booth #12654

(cz-usa.com)

ESCORT

The DF-12, a 12-gauge gas autoloader, is the latest addition to the VTS line. This modern sporting shotgun is attractive for its toughness, ambidextrous controls, and easy field stripping. Three chokes are included, allowing it to run loads from bird shot to heavy slugs through the 18-inch barrel. It’s magazine-fed, chambered in three-inch magnum, and will accommodate 3- and 2.5-inch shells. Two five-round mags are included; two-round magazines are available. Among other features is a removable A2-style carry handle and flipup rear and front sights for tactical use.

Escort describes the DF-12 as “overbuilt.” Its tough alloy upper and lower combine to make an 8.9pound shotgun. The chromed barrel is corrosion-resistant. A reversing charging handle makes it southpawfriendly. This should be one tough contender for a shotgun that can move between home defense and game. Booth #72449

(escortshotgunsusa.com)

FRANCHI

Franchi has launched new variants of its autoloader Affinity waterfowl line. The new Affinity 3 is offered in 12 or 20 gauge, with a Mossy Oak Bottomland or RealTree Max-5 pattern synthetic stock. The 12 gauge is available with a 26- or 28-inch barrel; the 20 gauge has a 26-inch barrel. Steel surfaces are Cerakoted in brown or bronze. Capacity is 4+1. Also in the mix is a left-handed option in 20 gauge, a complement to the existing left-handed 12-gauge model. Affinity 3 is made for the hunter who wants a light-swinging gun that runs both 2.75- and 3-inch shells. SRP: $1,099.

Traditionalists have not been forgotten. Waterfowl hunters who prefer a walnut stock coupled to an Italian scattergun, but don’t have a small fortune on hand, have a new, lightweight choice in the form of the 20-gauge Instinct L. This over/under has a 26-inch ventilated barrel and vented ribs. It joins its 12-gauge stablemate of the same name. SRP: $1,449. Booth #13638

(franchiusa.com)

handguns

BOND ARMS

Last year Bond Arms released a centerfire variant of its super-slim derringer Stinger line. Now comes the Stinger in .22 LR. That’s not the only news, though. These little guns were originally crafted from aluminum, but a sudden supply stoppage forced a change to steel construction, something already deeply familiar in the Bond Arms shop. In rimfire configuration, the steel Stinger remains so light that pocket carry with it remains very discreet. And with virtually no recoil, anyone in the family can enjoy the 22 LR Stinger. SRP: $269. Booth #72617

(bondarms.com)

FN has added a subcompact pistol to its compensator-equipped Edge series within the Model 509 lineup. The 509 CC Edge with a 4.25-inch barrel is available with 10-, 12-, and 15-round magazines. It’s offered in gray and black/gray. What sets the 509 CC Edge apart from other compensated guns is its field strip procedure, which FN claims is the fastest in the industry among compensated pistols. It stays on trend with a flat-face trigger and pre-installed optic or slide cut for a low-profile setting for an optic. SRP: $1,569. Booth #11860

(fnamerica.com)

SMITH & WESSON

The Equalizer is a carry gun that borrows numerous elements of their popular and easy-racking EZ series while answering the call for better capacity in a small package. It has a 3.7-inch barrel and magazines that hold 10, 13, or 15 rounds. Its singleaction trigger has a palpable, audible reset. A straighter, 18-degree grip angle will please many shooters who find more common angles uncomfortable. Thumb safety is optional. The slide is optics-ready. The Equalizer will surely be the answer for S&W customers who love the ergonomics of the EZ model, but found it a tad too big for concealment use. SRP: $599.99.

Built for competition right out of the box, the Competitor comes with a 5-inch barrel, has an enhanced sear for lighter, crisper trigger let-off, and includes a flared magazine well for fast and efficient reloads. Boasting a new look, the aggressive lightening cuts on both the top and sides of the slide ultimately reduce the amount of weight in front of the chamber and, in return, help improve the recoil balance point. The slide is cut for optics, but includes a fiber-optic front sight and a blackedout serrated rear sight. The Competitor comes with an oversized mag release that is reversible for both right- and left-handed users and ships with a total of four magazines. Choose from models available in 10+1 or 17+1 round capacities with a Tungsten Gray Cerakote. SRP: $999. Booth #14743

(smith-wesson.com)

SPRINGFIELD ARMORY

Springfield Armory broke perhaps the biggest pistol news of 2022 when they announced their first 2011—the DS Prodigy. As the name implies, it has a double-stack magazine with 17- or 20-round capacity. There is also a 26-round optional mag. The DS Prodigy is currently available only in 9mm.

Rather than making consumers wait for one small line extension at a time, Springfield took the bold step of releasing four editions at once. There’s a 4.25-inch barrel size and a governmentsize Prodigy, each of which is offered with or without the company’s HEX Dragonfly red-dot optic. An ambidextrous safety is standard. Each version ships with a HEX-compatible mounting plate. Other plate footprints are available for purchase through SA’s Agency Optic System store.

Like the single-stack Emissary, the DS Prodigy has a hammer-forged slide and forged stainless match-grade bull barrel with 1:16 twist. The railed Prodigy design is less angular than the Emissary, but the heft remains. SRP: $1,499, without optic; $1,699, optics preinstalled. Booth #11217

(springfield-armory.com)

TAURUS

Keeping with the trend of companies releasing micro-compact models and then moving up to larger editions, the new 9mm GX4XL takes the GX4 to “XL” status from an additional inch on the slide, which is gas nitride-coated carbon steel. It encases a 3.71-inch, DLC-coated stainless-steel barrel.

The T.O.R.O. (Taurus Optic-Ready Option) slide is available for the GX4XL. This no-plate mount fits several current carry optics including, but not limited to, Shield, Trijicon, Holosun, Riton, and Sightmark models.

Capacity remains 11 or 13 rounds, with a 10-round option available. Among other standard features are a flat-face trigger, serrated blackout adjustable rear sight, and two backstrap choices. SRP: $429 standard slide; $459, T.O.R.O. slide without optic; $549, with a factory-installed Riton optic and BUIS. Booth #13038

(taurususa.com)

TAYLORS & COMPANY

This importer/reseller is now offering a set of revolvers that bridge the gap between old and modern. The single-action TC9 line is chambered in 9mm, with the profile of the 1873 Cattleman. Two sizes/styles of TC9 are available. The armysize model has a 5.5-inch barrel, is 11 inches long overall, and weighs 2.4 pounds. If a consumer prefers a smaller wheelgun, it’s also offered in a 4.74-inch barrel, 10.25-inch length, with a 2.3-pound frame. Both carry six rounds, and both have the option of large, checkered walnut grips and blued finish ($588.14), or two-piece black plastic grips with color case hardening ($546.39). Booth #72226

(taylorsfirearms.com)

TISAS USA

In the 1911 category, the Tank Commander is a quite faithful interpretation of the traditional Colt 1911 Commander. It’s tough, with a forged frame and slide and hammer-forged barrel. Its Mec-Gar mags are Cerakoted to match the gun’s Cerakote finish, which is infused with lubricity. The checkered grip is Turkish walnut. It’s available in 9mm and .45 ACP. SRP: $429.95.

Last year, the company released its first 9mm striker gun, the Px9. Its most recent line extension is the Night Stalker SF. Finished in olive Cerakote (also with lubricity built in), it has distinctive lightening cuts in the slide, and accommodates Glock-pattern iron sights. It sports a threaded barrel. It is red-dot ready with a low cut that allows for a lower-third co-witness. Capacity is 18+1. SRP: $500. Booth #14232

(tisasusa.com)