Final Rule ATF 2021-05F: The BATFE on 80% Frames
FINAL RULE ATF: Last week, the BATFE issued new guidance on the legality of 80% frame lowers like those manufactured by Polymer 80, Lone Wolf Arms, Nomad Defense, and Matrix Arms. It’s rarely a Good Thing when we have to report ATF news, and this time is no different.
ATF Changes its Mind. Again.
Once again, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) has changed its mind. Remember how 80 percent frames and lowers were legal until Joe Biden’s ATF decided that they weren’t? You know, like the ATF always does.
That question was shaking out as part of the Vanderstok v. Garland case in federal court, with the ATF agreeing that the frames and receivers in question were indeed legal so long as they didn’t ship with “associated templates, jigs, molds, equipment, tools, instructions, guides, or marketing materials.”
So, basically, the frames and receivers are only firearms under the Gun Control Act (GCA) if they are packaged with those “non-firearm objects” (NFO). Strange, but okay. Companies had already incorporated that change and were continuing to ship their products. NFO sold separately.
Then, out of the blue, ATF dropped a new rule on FFLs by way of a December 27 open letter. The letter stated that “these partially complete pistol frames are ‘frames’ and ‘firearms’ as defined in the GCA and its implementing regulations.” Even if they don’t include the NFO items.
ATF bases this change on the definition of the word “readily,” as in whether these frames can be “readily converted” to fully functioning firearms.
Here’s an excerpt from that statement:
Applying the regulatory text of Final Rule 2021-05F, partially complete Polymer80, Lone Wolf, and similar striker-fired semiautomatic pistol frames, including, but not limited to, those sold within parts kits, have reached a stage of manufacture where they “may readily be completed, assembled, restored, or otherwise converted” to a functional frame. This definition of “readily” applies to each and every classification of a partially complete frame or receiver under this Rule, whether sold alone or as part of a kit. Therefore, even without any associated templates, jigs, molds, equipment, tools, instructions, guides, or marketing materials, these partially complete pistol frames are “frames” and also “firearms” as defined in the GCA and its implementing regulations, 18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(3)(B) and 27 CFR 478.12(a)(1), (c).
The following are some examples of companies that build 80% frames.
Now learn about the sizes of handguns!
Ruger 10/22 Bolt Upgrade from Faxon Firearms
There are many parts that make up a 10/22 rifle, and each one of them plays an important role. However, the most critical component of the Ruger is the bolt.
The trigger may be what initiates every shot, but it’s the bolt that’s responsible for the shot-to-shot operation.
A high-quality bolt affects more than just reliability. The bolt face, its consistency, and how the firing pin strikes the bullet significantly contribute to the rifle’s accuracy.
Right side view
Faxon Stainless Steel Bolt Assembly for 10/22
Whether you’re building up a new gun or keeping an old favorite running, the Faxon 10/22 Bolt Assembly is the best choice.
Compatible with the OEM receiver, trigger group, charging handle, and bolt stop pin, the Faxon 10/22 bolt is fully assembled and ready to drop into your Ruger 10/22.
Specs
- Material: 17-4 PH Stainless steel, H900
- Hardness: HRC 40 – 47
- Round Firing Pin
- Sharp Extractor
Why Upgrade a 10/22 Bolt?
Upgrading the bolt improves reliability and accuracy on any 10/22 rifle.
A high-quality bolt such as the one from Faxon Firearms is properly radiused and polished to enhance the reliability of the cyclic action.
Additionally, the Faxon 10/22 bolt has the proper head spacing in order to improve the reliability of the bullets feeding from the magazine into the chamber.
Lastly, proper firing pin protrusion ensures optimal striking of the rimfire case.
For these reasons, upgrading your 10/22 bolt does have its advantages.
All these small gains add up to overall reliability, consistent performance, and improved accuracy.
Does The Ruger 10/22 Have a Bolt Hold Open?
Out of the box in the stock configuration, the Ruger 10/22 does not have a last-round bolt hold open feature.
To add the bolt hold open feature, you need a third-party upgrade such as the CST Auto Bolt Stop.
What is a Bolt Buffer?
A bolt buffer replaces/upgrades the bolt stop pin in your 10/22 receiver. The OEM bolt stop pin is made from steel, whereas the bolt buffer is made from a polymer material.
Over time the steel bolt stop pin can cause micro-cracks in the receiver due to repeated impacts of the bolt during shooting. The bolt buffer mitigates that and several other issues by being manufactured out of a polymer material.
Left side view
There are three main benefits of replacing the bolt stop pin with a bolt buffer.
- It reduces the sound when the bolt slams rearward during the cycling action during shooting. This is also a benefit when shooting suppressed as it greatly reduces the noise signature even more.
- The 10/22 blowback action is less shaky because of the dampening of the recoil and bolt cycling vibrations.
- It can prevent cracks in the 10/22 receiver resulting from prolonged usage, high round count shooting, or the added stress of high-velocity ammo.
The Ruger 10/22 bolt by Faxon includes a bolt buffer to replace the OEM bolt stop pin. If you’re interested in learning more, check out more on the Ruger 10/22 Bolt here.
Originally posted on Firearms Press.
FFL eZ Check: Now you can access the ATF FFL list yourself
An expired FFL license number, even an unknowing one, can be a significant legal problem (not to mention an unnecessary delays in your range time). FFL eZ Check will allow private users to access the ATF FFL list and determine a particular licensee’s current standing. This article originally ran November 8 2022.
FFL eZ Check explained
FFL eZ Check allows private parties and other FFLs to verify if a federal firearms license is valid. The user needs only enter the first three (3) digits and the last five (5) digits of the FFL being verified in the blocks provided and select the SUBMIT button. Selecting the RESET button will clear previously entered data.
You can now check the ATF FFL list online and confirm the legitimacy of an FFL/SOT before doing business with them.
FX19 | Faxon Firearms’ Complete Glock 19 Kit
The Polymer 80 kits have become so popular that they are usually out of stock everywhere. However, it’s a great way to custom-build your variant of a Glock 19.
Although you may learn a lot by building your gun, some may want the advantages of a Polymer 80 kit but don’t want to hassle with learning how to do it or taking the time to do it.
Faxon Firearms has remedied that issue by offering a complete PF940C kit known as the FX19. The Faxon FX19 comes in two different variants; The FX19 Patriot and its big brother, the FX19 Hellfire.
Faxon FX19 Patriot (Left) and Faxon FX19 Hellfire (Right) with the EXOS compensator.
The Faxon FX19 pistols are more or less a Polymer 80 PF940C complete kit, without being a Glock 19, but are compatible with all Glock 19 parts and accessories.
Stock PF940C build compared to the Complete Faxon FX19 Patriot build.
PF940C In Stock | Faxon FX19
Faxon took the PF940C gun frame and gave it a 1911 grip angle and improved texture. In addition to that, they polished the front & rear slide rails.
They may be minor differences, but they are noticeable when holding the gun in your hand.
They dropped in an Overwatch Precision Trigger to finish the custom frame.
The Faxon Patriot FX19
The Faxon Patriot was made for concealed carry. Everything from the grip to the trigger and sights make for a formidable CCW firearm.
What stands out the most is the custom-cut slide with serrations in all the right places for manipulating the gun and doing press checks.
The top of the slide has been cut for a Trijicon RMR or Holosun 507C. The front sight is a bright red fiber optic with a blacked-out rear site, making it extremely quick and easy to locate.
On top of all that, the Patriot comes with a match-grade barrel made in-house by Faxon, and lastly, the Patriot ships with a 15-round Glock OEM magazine.
The Faxon Hellfire FX19
The big brother to the Faxon Patriot is the Faxon Hellfire FX19.
After handling the Patriot, the Hellfire was quite a different experience. The Hellfire feels made for my hand.
The Hellfire utilizes the same frame as the Patriot, with the exception of a magwell. The magwell alone makes a noticeable difference in the grip. However, because of the magwell and the undercut trigger guard, you can get the highest grip possible on the gun.
The sights used on the Hellfire are suppressor-height sights from Night Fision. In addition, the front sight contains a Tritium insert that ALWAYS glows, and the rear sight is blacked-out. This combination makes for fast target acquisition.
The custom-cut slide, threaded barrel, Night Fision suppressor height sights, and extended 20-round magazine w/magwell may remind you of something from a John Wick movie.
PF940C vs PF940v2
The PF940C frame is considered a compact size, I.E., Glock 19, while the Polymer 80 PF940v2 build is regarded as a full-sized frame, I.E., Glock 17.
The best thing about the full-frame PF940V2 is the compatibility with 9mm, .40 S&W, and .357 Sig pistols.
What Gen Glock is the PF940C?
The PF940C is explicitly made for the Glock 19/23 Gen 3 pistol frame, magazine, and barrel.
What is PF940C compatible with?
The PF940C offers compatibility with Glock 19 Gen 3 components. In addition, the PF940C frame comes with an aggressive texture that emulates a stippled pattern.
Features like the extended beaver tail, a double undercut trigger guard, and a thumb ledge enhance the ergonomics allowing for an adequate grip and improved recoil control.
Gen 3 Vertx Bags and EDC Packs: Contemporary Carry
The third generation of EDC packs and CCW bags from Vertx are now making their way into the wild. The first pack sortie includes the Vertx GAMUT, their READY PACK, and the NAVIGATOR.
The company tells us,
“Life comes at you fast, but you take pride in being prepared for anything and everything. Like you, our next generation of bags and packs are ready for whatever life throws. Each pack can be customized for your exact needs.”
Built for every adventure, every mission, and every day.
Take a look a the key features of the latest generation of Vertx bags.
- Modern exterior with reduced “Tactical” tells
- Moveable EDC Rapid Access Tab allows you to pick the zipper you want the tab to be on
- Tactigami™ Double Admin Panel included in every bag
- More loop lining throughout the bags for more customization
- Laser Cut MOLLE behind front panel (excluding Navigator)
- Water bottle retention system to better secure your hydration
- Plenty of room, modularity, and organizational capability for virtually any need.
Vertx Gen 3 Bags and Packs Explained
Read more at Rainier Arms.
Best Pistol Compensator for CCW?
There’s been a resurgence in pistol compensators this year as a few manufacturers have come out with options for various handgun models. Are comps worth the hype, especially for concealed carry?
Faxon Firearms says, “Anything improving pistol accuracy is worth checking out.”
That said, let’s take a look at the Faxon Firearms EXOS.
From the Faxon release.
Faxon EXOS | Is It The Best Pistol Compensator?
Constructed of black anodized 6061 Aluminum, the Faxon EXOS features an angled front port single chamber design, enabling the compensator to improve shot-to-shot accuracy by reducing muzzle climb and recoil.
Watch the video, see what you think.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guOEcvqJQAg
The EXOS’ specially designed port design allows gas to deflect upwards as opposed to only deflecting to the sides, reducing the up-and-down muzzle movement and allowing your sights to reset on target much faster.
The Faxon EXOS Pistol Compensator is designed to fit flush with the slide and has been optimized for Faxon match-grade pistol barrels. For all other threaded pistol barrels, the barrel should protrude .600″ or less for a flush fit.
Compatible Hosts For The Faxon EXOS Pistol Comp
- All Glock Gen 5 Pistols
- Glock 19/17/34 Gen 4Glock 19/17/34 Gen 3
- Glock 43/43x
- Glock 48
- SIG P365/P365XL
- SIG P320
- M&P Shield/Shield Plus
- M&P Full Size Pistols
- Faxon FX19 Pistols
Each EXOS pistol compensator comes complete with thread locker, two 6-32 set screws, and a 1/16 Allen wrench.
Faxon EXOS pistol compensator.
Best Pistol Compensator (Including For Concealed Carry)
If you want to add a compensator to your concealed carry pistol, the Faxon EXOS Comp is a great choice.
Concealed carry holsters are often not too forgiving when it comes to pistol compensators. The EXOS Comp addresses these issues with its low-profile design that mimics the profile of the pistol’s slide.
The EXOS will work with any open-ended holster designed for your pistol. Even IWB holsters can work comfortably with this compensator.
Conclusion
We’re confident you’ll agree the Faxon EXOS is one of the best pistol compensators to hit the market.
Granted it’s not the only player in town, but its unique port design, ease of installation, and performance have put the competition on its heels.
Learn more at www.faxonfirearms.com.
TRIGGRCON 2022: THREE DAYS LEFT
We’re down to just three days left before TRIGGRCON! Just a reminder, if you didn’t manage to pre-register, you can still get tickets at the event.
Today we’re going to talk about an Evening with Heroes. The VIP event will be an intimate gathering of tactical industry leaders, first responders, military VIPs, and VIP ticket holders.
The VIP event will include some of the best NW spirits & beverages, fantastic food, exciting tactical entertainment, giveaways, and a raffle that will benefit our charity, Resilient Warrior Foundation.
We think you should attend and support a good cause!
Get Tickets for the VIP Party!
“Don’t wake up on the 9th and realize you didn’t come; you’re going to have to wait a whole year thinking about how you missed the biggest event in the region.” – GW Ayers III, Chief Operating Officer of Rainier Arms.
Featured Influencers Attending
AR15 News
MSM | Mil-Spec Monkey
Ava Flanell
Pew Pew Tactical
Baby Yota
Who Can Attend?
The Enthusiast
If you support or are interested in the firearm industry. Whether on a competitive match, in your backyard, or hunting.
Media & Industry
Do you either work in the industry in some capacity or support the industry through your business? This is for you!
Just a reminder, this year’s expo will be held at the premier Flint Oak Hunting Lodge in Flint Oak, KS. The dates for the expo are October 7th-8th, 2022. Range day and exhibitor events will be running concurrently.
TRIGGRCON FAQ
- Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter TRIGGRCON?
TRIGGRCON is an all-ages show. There are no ID requirements though everyone must have a ticket to enter.
- What are my parking options at TRIGGRCON?
There is limited parking under the convention center. However, parking will be free for our patrons and we intend on having two party shuttle buses in circulation at all times throughout the day on both days.
- How are the shuttles working?
They’ll be transporting folks from the main parking lot to the main lodge where all the non-firing vendors will be located. As people offload at the registration tents in front of the main lodge, they can hop back on if they would like and head to the long-distance range.
- Can I bring my pet to the TRIGGRCON?
No animals are allowed. The only exception is for correctly identified on-duty ADA-recognized service animals.
- Are personal firearms or ammunition allowed?
Personal firearms must remain in a holster and cannot be discharged.
- How can I contact the organizer with any questions?
Please send all questions to [email protected]
- Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?
No, you may either print your ticket or have it on your phone.
- Will badges be required?
Only industry, media, and exhibitors will be required to wear a badge during the show. Standard public/enthusiast attendees do not need to wear a badge during the show.
Originally posted on Firearms Press.
TRIGGRCON 2022: One Week Left!
There is just one week left until TRIGGRCON 22!
The clock is ticking; don’t miss out. Here are a few more reasons to be there.
VIP CHARITY PARTY 2022
Who else is Exhibiting at TRIGGRCON 22?
TRIGGRCON features some of the most innovative companies in the tactical industry. Here are a few of the great companies attending! More coming soon!\
NIGHTHAWK CUSTOM
Nighthawk Custom was formed in 2004 by a group of four talented individuals with a true passion for the 1911 platform. Nighthawk Custom is proud to be the home of the World’s Finest 1911 Pistols as the company continues to grow from those original employees to approximately 95 full-time employees. In addition to 1911 pistols, Nighthawk Custom also manufactures top-of-the-line tactical shotguns based on the world’s most popular shotgun platform, the Remington 870.
MAXIM DEFENSE
Maxim Defense is a non-traditional U.S.-based firearms development company centered on producing better, lighter, and more reliable firearms and accessories that exceed in today’s most extreme environments. Headquartered in St. Cloud, Minnesota, Maxim Defense’s engineers are focused on R&D and manufacturing superiority for U.S. and NATO military forces, government agencies, and homeland first responders.
JK ARMAMENT
JK Armament is located in Idaho and was established in 2019. Jake Kunsky is a US Army Veteran and Special Force’s group head armorer. Kunsky was selected as group head armorer for the Special Forces because of his experience, knowledge, and problem-solving skills in weapons. Kunsky has over 20 years of machining and weapons experience in the automotive and farming industries and in the firearms and military complex. Kunksy gained exceptional hands-on experience throughout his four combat deployments to Iraq, giving him a passion and interest in designing and manufacturing the best suppressors in the world.
“Don’t wake up on the 9th and realize you didn’t come; you’re going to have to wait a whole year thinking about how you missed the biggest event in the region.” – GW Ayers III, Chief Operating Officer of Rainier Arms.
Who Can Attend?
The Enthusiast
If you support or are interested in the firearm industry. Whether on a competitive match, in your backyard, or hunting. Register here.
Media & Industry
Do you either work in the industry in some capacity or support the industry through your business? This is for you! Register here.
Just a reminder, this year’s expo will be held at the premier Flint Oak Hunting Lodge in Flint Oak, KS. The dates for the expo are October 7th-8th, 2022. Range day and exhibitor events will be running concurrently.
TRIGGRCON FAQ
- Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter TRIGGRCON?
TRIGGRCON is an all-ages show. There are no ID requirements though everyone must have a ticket to enter.
- What are my parking options at TRIGGRCON?
There is limited parking under the convention center. However, parking will be free for our patrons and we intend on having two party shuttle buses in circulation at all times throughout the day on both days.
- How are the shuttles working?
They’ll be transporting folks from the main parking lot to the main lodge where all the non-firing vendors will be located. As people offload at the registration tents in front of the main lodge, they can hop back on if they would like and head to the long-distance range.
- Can I bring my pet to the TRIGGRCON?
No animals are allowed. The only exception is for correctly identified on-duty ADA-recognized service animals.
- Are personal firearms or ammunition allowed?
Personal firearms must remain in a holster and cannot be discharged.
- How can I contact the organizer with any questions?
Please send all questions to [email protected]
- Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?
No, you may either print your ticket or have it on your phone.
- Will badges be required?
Only industry, media, and exhibitors will be required to wear a badge during the show. Standard public/enthusiast attendees do not need to wear a badge during the show.
Read the original post at Firearm News.
TRIGGRCON 2022: Two Weeks Remain!
It is getting down the wire, folks; we’ve got just two weeks left before TRIGGRCON. So if you haven’t, you’ve still got time to get pre-registration done; if not, we’ll give you a few reasons why you should consider getting that done as soon as possible!
Just a reminder, this year’s expo will be held at the premier Flint Oak Hunting Lodge in Flint Oak, KS. The dates for the expo are October 7th-8th, 2022. Range day and exhibitor events will be running concurrently.
Who’s Exhibiting at TRIGGRCON?
TRIGGRCON features some of the most innovative companies in the tactical industry. Here are a few of the great companies attending! More coming soon!\
BARRETT FIREARMS
Premium Blasters
Headquartered in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Barrett is the world leader in large-caliber rifle design and manufacturing. Their products are used by civilian sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the United States military, and more than 70 State Department approved countries worldwide.
DANIEL DEFENSE
Daniel Defense is a family-owned and privately held firearms manufacturer located in Black Creek, Georgia. Founded in 2000 by President/CEO Marty Daniel, the company was born from Marty’s vision to create custom rifle accessories for his personal rifles. Eighteen years later, Daniel’s concepts have evolved into one of the most recognizable brands in the firearms world.
GLOBAL ORDNANCE
Headquartered in Sarasota, Florida, Global Ordnance is a force multiplier within the commercial and defense military industries supporting a wide array of equipment, ammunition, and firearms. As a Veteran Owned Small Business, Global Ordnance LLC strives to provide excellence to its customers.
“Don’t wake up on the 9th and realize you didn’t come; you’re going to have to wait a whole year thinking about how you missed the biggest event in the region.” – GW Ayers III, Chief Operating Officer of Rainier Arms.
Who Can Attend?
The Enthusiast
If you support or are interested in the firearm industry. Whether on a competitive match, in your backyard, or hunting. Register here.
Media & Industry
Do you either work in the industry in some capacity or support the industry through your business? This is for you! Register here.
TRIGGRCON FAQ
- Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter TRIGGRCON?
TRIGGRCON is an all-ages show. There are no ID requirements though everyone must have a ticket to enter.
- What are my parking options at TRIGGRCON?
There is limited parking under the convention center. However, parking will be free for our patrons and we intend on having two party shuttle buses in circulation at all times throughout the day on both days.
- How are the shuttles working?
They’ll be transporting folks from the main parking lot to the main lodge where all the non-firing vendors will be located. As people offload at the registration tents in front of the main lodge, they can hop back on if they would like and head to the long-distance range.
- Can I bring my pet to the TRIGGRCON?
No animals are allowed. The only exception is for correctly identified on-duty ADA-recognized service animals.
- Are personal firearms or ammunition allowed?
Personal firearms must remain in a holster and cannot be discharged.
- How can I contact the organizer with any questions?
Please send all questions to [email protected]
- Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?
No, you may either print your ticket or have it on your phone.
- Will badges be required?
Only industry, media, and exhibitors will be required to wear a badge during the show. Standard public/enthusiast attendees do not need to wear a badge during the show.
Faxon Overwatch Tactical | New 8.6 BLK Bolt Action Rifles
Not content with merely making barrels for the new 8.6 Blackout, Faxon Firearms has recently released the Overwatch rifle series, looking to combine top-quality bolt-action rifle building with the 8.6 Blackout caliber. Today we’re breaking down the two versions of the Overwatch Tactical.
The Overwatch is available in a more traditional style with the Overwatch Hunter, as well as two flavors of chassis builds in the Overwatch Tactical, in a 16″ barreled rifle and a 12″ barreled/braced pistol.
Faxon Firearms Overwatch Tactical 16″
The 16″ Faxon Overwatch Tactical Bolt Action in 8.6 BLK provides modern modularity and attachment capabilities while retaining the classic bolt action experience.
Features and Specs
- Faxon 16″ 1:3 Twist 8.6 BLK Barrel w/ Thread Protector, Taper Adapter, and Remage-Style Nut
- Muzzle threaded M18x1.5mm for use with any AI standard muzzle device or suppressor mount
- MDT LSS XL Gen 2 Chassis
- Faxon TAC 30 Action & Bolt by Stiller
- AICS Mag Compatible
- Timney Elite Hunter 510-V2 Trigger
- B5 Precision Collapsible Stock
- B5 Pistol Grip
Weights & Dimensions
- Weight: 7.61 lbs
- Length: 35.375″
- Depth: 8″
- Width: 1.5″
Faxon Firearms Overwatch Tactical 12″
The 12″ Faxon Overwatch Tactical Bolt Action in 8.6 BLK provides modern modularity and attachment capabilities while retaining the classic bolt action experience but in a smaller package, of course.
Features and Specs
- Faxon 12″ 1:3 Twist 8.6 BLK Barrel w/ Thread Protector, Taper Adapter, and Remage-Style Nut
- Muzzle threaded M18x1.5mm for use with any AI standard muzzle device or suppressor mount
- MDT LSS Gen 2 Chassis
- Faxon TAC 30 Action & Bolt by Stiller
- AICS Mag Compatible
- Timney Elite Hunter 510-V2 Trigger
- SBA3 Pistol Brace
- B5 Pistol Grip
Weights & Dimensions
- Weight: 7.87 lbs
- Length: 29″
- Depth: 8″
- Width: 1.5″
Shared Features of the Overwatch Tactical Bolt Action Rifles
Let’s go over the commonalities then the differences; here are the Overwatch 16″ Rifle and 12″ Pistol share these commonalities.
Faxon TAC30 Action by Stiller
Stiller Actions has been making premium quality rifle action based on the Remington 700 for years. With customers hunting in the woods, competing at the range, and chasing down enemies of America, Stiller Actions is well known to those who demand quality.
Tac30 Action
- Designed for Tactical and Long Range Hunting applications
- Bead Blasted 416 Stainless
- 90-degree bolt throw
- Modified M16 extractor, Remington 700 pin-style ejector
- It fits any Remington 700 short-action inlet stock
- Accepts AICS pattern mags
The first thing you’ll notice with the Tac 30 action is how amazingly smooth the bolt rides when you run it back and forth. But, of course, you can thank Stiller’s proprietary, double-layer coating for that.
Timney 510 Elite Hunter 510-V2
The Timney Elite Hunter 510-V2 is one of the best triggers on this earth. Zero creep, sharp break; it’s perfection in tangible form.
The Differences Between The Overwatch Tactical Rifles
There are two primary differences between the Overwatch Tactical 12″ and 16″. First, besides the barrel length, the rifle has a buttstock, while the pistol has a stabilizing brace.
First, let’s talk barrel length. Next, here’s a look at the preliminary load data for 8.6 Blackout, as provided by Faxon and Q.
The difference between 12″ and 16″ with Barnes supersonic 160gr is only 150 fps. With Sierra’s 300gr subsonic round, the difference is about 40 fps. With 8.6 Blackout optimized for performance in short barrels, there’s little difference.
Instead, the barrel length (and corresponding brace/stock) is more about personal preference and legality. For example, in some states hunting with pistols is outlawed, regardless of caliber.
There’s also the matter of comfort and terrain. If you’re on the shorter end, you’ll probably opt for the 12″ barrel. This is also true if you spend more time hunting in densely wooded areas.
But if you’re more of an ent who likes hunting in wide open spaces, that modest performance gain in the 16″ barrel combined with the more adjustable B5 stock makes a better platform for most.
Regardless of which barrel length you prefer, it’s clear that Faxon Firearms is swinging for the 8.6 Blackout fences with the Overwatch Tactical and Overwatch Hunter.
Like 8.6 Blackout, but prefer a semi-auto to bolt-action rifles? Read more on Faxon’s Sentinel AR-10 platform rifle.