{"id":686,"date":"2023-11-03T22:14:42","date_gmt":"2023-11-03T22:14:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tactical-dailynews.com\/?p=686"},"modified":"2023-11-03T22:14:43","modified_gmt":"2023-11-03T22:14:43","slug":"gems-of-the-mediterranean-gun-digest","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tactical-dailynews.com\/?p=686","title":{"rendered":"Gems Of The Mediterranean &#8211; Gun Digest"},"content":{"rendered":"<div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-a-look-at-some-of-the-best-firearms-hardware-this-sun-soaked-corner-of-the-world-has-to-offer\"><strong>A look at some of the best firearms hardware this sun-soaked corner of the world has to offer.<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>I\u2019ll pitch this out at the start\u2014I\u2019ve got no bone with American guns. Quite the opposite, actually. Red-blooded irons are the lifeblood of my arsenal and, generally speaking, are the first options I\u2019ll grab for a task\u2014be it protecting hearth and home or bagging a freezer full of venison. That said, a man\u2019s eye can wander. When mine does, it usually lands flush on a particular corner of the map: the Mediterranean.<\/p>\n<p>Now, I\u2019m the first to admit the region\u2014for the unwary\u2014is a fertile lemon farm. Who hasn\u2019t heard of or has a personal story about a dreadful Turkish shotgun, so ill-conceived it wouldn\u2019t make an acceptable club?<\/p>\n<p>Fair enough.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><\/figure>\n<p>Yet, for every troubled smoothbore exported from the Bosporus or persnickety pistol emanating from the Italian Alps, boatloads of top-rate, out-and-out classics are emanating from the Levant. Hell, some of them easily qualify as best-in-class, not to mention as alluring as a bikini-clad, olive-skinned beauty. All you need to know is what to look for when searching out the gems of the Mediterranean.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pedersoli-tascosa-creedmoor-rolling-block\"><strong>Pedersoli Tascosa Creedmoor Rolling Block\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Pedersoli.jpg\" alt=\"Mediterranean-guns-Pedersoli\" class=\"wp-image-291286\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Pedersoli.jpg 800w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Pedersoli-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Pedersoli-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Pedersoli-696x348.jpg 696w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Pedersoli-200x100.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Pedersoli.jpg\" alt=\"Mediterranean-guns-Pedersoli\" class=\"lazyload wp-image-291286\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Pedersoli.jpg 800w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Pedersoli-300x150.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Pedersoli-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Pedersoli-696x348.jpg 696w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Pedersoli-200x100.jpg 200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Throwback appeal aside, the Rolling block is a lights-out iron at long range\u2014if your eyesight can handle the sights.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Honestly, much of the surface appeal of this rifle is its colorful history. There\u2019s a tingle to wielding among the most utilized single-shots in history, one that\u2019s proven its mettle as one of the all-time great precision arms. Yet, there\u2019s more happening with the Italian reproduction than purely a fa\u00e7ade of nostalgia for a golden age of riflesmithing. Plain and simple, the Pedersoli Rolling Block shoots.<\/p>\n<p>Once dialed in, I had the .45-70 Government Tascosa Creedmoor Rolling Block (MSRP: $2,500) averaging right around \u00bd MOA all day long at 100 yards. Puffing Black Hills Ammo\u2019s 405-grain Authentic Cowboy Action, that\u2019s not too shabby.<\/p>\n<p>As much as it humbles me, Pedersoli\u2019s second-to-none manufacturing process deserves the lion\u2019s share of the credit for these results. This is most evident in the rolling block\u2019s massive 30-inch target barrel. Pedersoli\u2019s boring and rifling process is second to none, involving polishing the bore to a mirror finish before cutting the rifling, giving the barrel a near-perfect bearing surface. Then, there\u2019s the set trigger, which quite possibly could break with a stiff breeze. I estimated it roughly at 2 ounces, but that\u2019s a shot in the dark given it barely registered on my Wheeler scale.<\/p>\n<p>Furthermore, I\u2019d be remiss if I didn\u2019t take a moment to talk about the rolling block\u2019s 3-inch tang Vernier rear peep sight and tunnel front sight. The frontier version of today\u2019s high-powered rifle scopes, the system offers 300 points of elevation adjustment, as well as fine windage adjustment. Granted, it\u2019s not the simplest system to pick up\u2014particularly for greenhorns. However, once mastered, it\u2019s perhaps the most accurate non-magnified aiming solution available.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-bergara-b-14r\"><strong>Bergara B-14R<\/strong><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Bergara.jpg\" alt=\"Mediterranean-guns-Bergara\" class=\"wp-image-291288\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Bergara.jpg 800w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Bergara-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Bergara-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Bergara-696x435.jpg 696w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Bergara-672x420.jpg 672w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Bergara.jpg\" alt=\"Mediterranean-guns-Bergara\" class=\"lazyload wp-image-291288\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Bergara.jpg 800w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Bergara-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Bergara-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Bergara-696x435.jpg 696w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Bergara-672x420.jpg 672w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">From its HMS stock to B-14 action, and the option of a carbon-fiber barrel, few rimfires short of a custom gun offer shooters more than a B-14R.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>If you\u2019ve yet to shoulder any of Bergara\u2019s rimfires, consider yourself robbed. Far surpassing the classification of \u201cplinkers,\u201d the rifles are among the finest you can find short of going custom. This especially holds for the Spanish company\u2019s B-14R line of precision irons.<\/p>\n<p>Essentially a full-sized trainer built off Bergara\u2019s wildly popular B-14 series action\u2014only chambered for .17 HMR, .22 LR and .22 WMR\u2014the rifle delivers next-level accuracy. Of course, that\u2019s what it\u2019s meant to do, given the rifle is designed to offer precision shooters a cheap way of keeping their eye and skills sharp.<\/p>\n<p>Yet, you needn\u2019t be a PRS or NRL22 ace to appreciate what Bergara has put together. Chief among its assets, the rifle\u2019s action has a Remington 700 footprint. The most utilized dimension of stock inlets\u2014the sky is nearly the limit in how you configure the barreled action.<\/p>\n<p>Want a chassis rig? That door is open.\u00a0Desire a classy hunting setup? Search out a stick of walnut and let the brushy tails beware. The same compatibility holds for 700 bases and triggers as well, making the B-14R\u2019s system eminently flexible and customizable. Heck, Bergara even patterned the rifle\u2019s magazines after AICS short action mags, making certain no retrofitting is required.<\/p>\n<p>However, don\u2019t feel as if you\u2019re compromising if you stay stock with the B-14R\u2014it\u2019s lights-out off the shelf. Available with an 18- or 20-inch carbon-fiber barrel ($1,329) or a slightly less expensive steel barrel ($1,229), Bergara mates the barreled action to its HMR stock. A hybrid of sorts, the HMR is light enough for field use but more than adept at precision work. Thank what Bergara calls its \u201cmini-chassis\u201d molded into the stock for this double duty, as well as a fully adjustable length of pull and cheek riser. Plus, Bergara\u2019s single-stage stock trigger is no slouch\u2014most find its crisp 2.5-pound trip more than adequate for their needs.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Honestly, there\u2019s more to chew over on the B-14R, but this is a survey of firearms, not a standalone review. Suffice to say, if you like splashing one round off another at ranges fitter for centerfires, the B-14R is for you.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-benelli-super-black-eagle-3\"><strong>Benelli Super Black Eagle 3<\/strong><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Benelli.jpg\" alt=\"Mediterranean-guns-Benelli\" class=\"wp-image-291289\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Benelli.jpg 800w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Benelli-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Benelli-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Benelli-696x435.jpg 696w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Benelli-672x420.jpg 672w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Benelli.jpg\" alt=\"Mediterranean-guns-Benelli\" class=\"lazyload wp-image-291289\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Benelli.jpg 800w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Benelli-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Benelli-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Benelli-696x435.jpg 696w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Mediterranean-guns-Benelli-672x420.jpg 672w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An absolute terror of the flyways, the Super Black Eagle\u2014now in its third generation\u2014has solidified itself as the premier waterfowl semi-auto.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Now in its third generation, the inertia-driven auto isn\u2019t long enough in the tooth to make an all-time claim on ducks and geese knocked from the sky. That said, hunters most certainly have slayed waterfowl at a blistering enough clip with the 12-gauge (there are 20- and 28-gauge options too) that it certainly has to be in the running. Of course, Benelli kind of planned it that way.<\/p>\n<p>The Super Black Eagle\u2019s introduction coincides with the 3\u00bd-inch shotgun shells, and the gun was among the first chambered for what became a favorite among waterfowlers. Although, pitching big dogs is only part of the story. Where the SBE (starting at $1,900) truly makes its bones in the duck blind is holding its own with the shotguns that go\u00a0cha-chunk\u00a0when running the action. Damn near impervious to water, sand, marsh muck and any other environmental hazard that brings lesser semis to a halt, the inertia system chews through shells as reliably as a pump-action, which is pretty much a necessity in a quality waterfowl gun.<\/p>\n<p>Ruggedness generally gets the kudos with the SBE\u2019s inertia system, but there\u2019s a subtle benefit felt once the gun is at the shoulder: It\u2019s nimble as all get-out. Simpler and smaller than a gas-operated gun, the SBE boasts a slimmer forend, which makes the gun much quicker on the point. And, it\u2019s lighter, even in its 28-inch barreled configuration, than most comparable semis\u2014in some cases by as much as 2 pounds.<\/p>\n<p>Admittedly, the svelteness and inertia system put a bit of a thump to the SBE\u2014particularly when shucking 3- and 3\u00bd-inch shells. But it\u2019s not enough to make it a monster or dissuade you from taking after snow geese or other high-density shooting affairs. Far from it. In fact, given all the gun\u2019s other assets, you likely won\u2019t even take note of its recoil.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-franchi-momentum-elite\"><strong>Franchi Momentum Elite<\/strong><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Franchi-Momentum-Elite.jpg\" alt=\"Med-Franchi-Momentum-Elite\" class=\"wp-image-291290\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Franchi-Momentum-Elite.jpg 800w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Franchi-Momentum-Elite-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Franchi-Momentum-Elite-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Franchi-Momentum-Elite-696x435.jpg 696w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Franchi-Momentum-Elite-672x420.jpg 672w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Franchi-Momentum-Elite.jpg\" alt=\"Med-Franchi-Momentum-Elite\" class=\"lazyload wp-image-291290\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Franchi-Momentum-Elite.jpg 800w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Franchi-Momentum-Elite-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Franchi-Momentum-Elite-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Franchi-Momentum-Elite-696x435.jpg 696w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Franchi-Momentum-Elite-672x420.jpg 672w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Not a flashy option out of the Med, the Momentum Elite squares itself away as one of the top affordable hunting rifles.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Bold statement incoming: The Momentum Elite might be among the finest budget hunters available on the market today. At least it\u2019s drawing on par with more established affordable European rifle makers, such as Tikka and the like. Given this market is as cutthroat as the Golden Age of Piracy, that\u2019s saying something. It\u2019s also surprising, given the bolt-action is essentially at the front end of the shotgun maker\u2019s run into the rifle niche.<\/p>\n<p>Where Franchi succeeds is striking a sane balance between affordability and quality, a difficult compromise to be sure. This is particularly notable in the Momentum Elite\u2019s stock, which is injection-molded polymer, but a more rigid variety than to what most have become accustomed. Alone, this creates a light, yet solid shooting platform that proves durable in the field, with some nice ergonomic touches. A large pistol grip, recessed sling studs and the fore stud moved back to better accommodate a bipod top this list. But there are worthwhile subtleties in the Momentum Elite\u2019s stock as well. In particular, its clever recoil lug system.<\/p>\n<p>Essentially, a pair of lugs are embedded in the stock and canted in a \u201cV\u201d configuration around the action screw. These match up to corresponding slots on the underside of the action. It doesn\u2019t seem like much, but the system perfectly centers the receiver while creating a rock-solid mate-up near impervious to recoil. Given mechanical consistency is a key to accuracy, the system goes a long way to upping the Momentum Elite\u2019s ability to repeatedly deliver hits.<\/p>\n<p>Saving dough, Franchi uses the easy-to-manufacture three-lug fat bolt, but this also imparts some desired qualities to the rifle \u2026 namely, the rifle\u2019s 60-degree bolt throw. Not only is this fast, a boon in case a follow-up shot is required, but it\u2019s much more forgiving if you run a large optic. The bolt is housed in the Momentum Elite\u2019s cylindrical action and mated with a sporter contoured 24-inch barrel with a threaded muzzle. Additionally, the rifle comes with a muzzle break\u2014nice, but a bit of a take-it-or-leave-it proposition.<\/p>\n<p>Franchi tops off the system with its very respectable Relia trigger\u2014fully adjustable from 2 to 4 pounds. Holistically, the Momentum Elite ($1,000) comes together to create a system capable of knocking the snot out of a dime at 100 yards until sundown. (I averaged 0.59-inch groups with the 6.5 Creedmoor I tested, which, for most hunters, is much more accuracy than they\u2019ll ever require.)<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-beretta-687-silver-pigeon-iii\"><strong>Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III<\/strong><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Beretta.jpg\" alt=\"Med-Beretta\" class=\"wp-image-291291\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Beretta.jpg 800w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Beretta-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Beretta-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Beretta-696x435.jpg 696w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Beretta-672x420.jpg 672w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Beretta.jpg\" alt=\"Med-Beretta\" class=\"lazyload wp-image-291291\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Beretta.jpg 800w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Beretta-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Beretta-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Beretta-696x435.jpg 696w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Beretta-672x420.jpg 672w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">So, no, despite its looks, a little old Italian man isn\u2019t hand-cutting the game motif on the receiver. It\u2019s laser engraved.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>True enough, the \u201cMama Bear\u201d of the 680 series isn\u2019t the cheapest of the lot and is identical mechanically to the rest of the line. High points here include inertia-operated trigger-plate action powered by captive coil springs, conical locking lugs, fast-handling low-profile receiver and Beretta\u2019s legendary Steelium barrels. As an aside, as comic book as the high-molybdenum steel sounds, it almost guarantees the tubes will last a lifetime, perhaps a couple. Yet, the Silver Pigeon III ($3,300) gives ample reason to pony up a bit more cash. Here we\u2019re talking about aesthetics.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019d be daft to think a motif of any kind leads to more broken clays or extra quail in the bag. However, the laser-engraved game scenes on the coin receiver\u2014part of the III\u2019s package\u2014as well as the Class 2.5 walnut enhance the overall experience of the shotgun. It\u2019s the same as leather seats in a car; the little extras deepen the pride of ownership and make those autumn flushes a bit more memorable. Not to mention, the flourishes make the gun a bit more exceptional when it\u2019s handed down to the next generation.<\/p>\n<p>Furthermore, Beretta\u2019s over\/unders are as reliable as the day is long and truly come into their own when shot. The manufacturer has an uncanny ability to make its production guns almost seem custom fit, a factor enhancing the firearm\u2019s overall performance and reducing felt recoil. The 12-gauge Silver Pigeons I\u2019ve handled (they also come in 20 and 28, as well as .410) always feel light when mounted, yet don\u2019t tend to over-swing.<\/p>\n<p>Balancing right around the hinge plate gives the gun this neutral aspect, and that makes it relatively versatile in its application. Combined with the aforementioned low-profile receiver and ample non-reflective rib, the Silver Pigeon also mounts fast and is among the most instinctual break-actions out there. For those who desire the entire package\u2014looks, performance and grace\u2014the Silver Pigeon III has each in spades.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-springfield-armory-hellcat\"><strong>Springfield Armory Hellcat<\/strong><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Springfield-Hellcat.jpg\" alt=\"Med-Springfield-Hellcat\" class=\"wp-image-291292\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Springfield-Hellcat.jpg 800w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Springfield-Hellcat-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Springfield-Hellcat-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Springfield-Hellcat-696x435.jpg 696w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Springfield-Hellcat-672x420.jpg 672w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Springfield-Hellcat.jpg\" alt=\"Med-Springfield-Hellcat\" class=\"lazyload wp-image-291292\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Springfield-Hellcat.jpg 800w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Springfield-Hellcat-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Springfield-Hellcat-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Springfield-Hellcat-696x435.jpg 696w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-Springfield-Hellcat-672x420.jpg 672w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Springfield Hellcat has done its part to redefine the modern concealed carry pistol.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>At the vanguard of the \u201cmicro nine\u201d revolution, the Hellcat didn\u2019t spark the sea change, but it sure as hell helped define it. Minute, enhanced capacity and relatively easy to shoot\u2014these pretty much define the Croatian creation and the standard bearers of modern concealed-carry pistols. Pretty heady stuff.<\/p>\n<p>While the Hellcat ($633 base model) hasn\u2019t and likely won\u2019t unseat the king\u2014the Sig P365\u2014it has proven to be perhaps the most adroit alternative of the micro 9mm options. Part of this is thanks to the 3-inch barreled pistol\u2019s diminutive dimensions. Measuring 1 inch in width at its thickest point, 4 inches in height and weighing in at a tick under 18 ounces, the Hellcat is concealable in all but the tightest hot pants. Great, but anybody can make a tiny gun.<\/p>\n<p>Where the HS Produkt design excels is in providing best-in-class firepower\u2014engineering-wise, far from a walk in the park when it comes to miniaturized \u201cnines.\u201d Pop in a flush-fit magazine and you have 11+1 on tap; rock the extend-capacity mag and you\u2019ve got 13+1. That\u2019s not quite duty pistol specs, but it\u2019s considerable peace of mind in a small gun.<\/p>\n<p>The Hellcat is not a bull\u2019s-eye pistol, but what 3-inch barreled gun is? It\u2019s bucky enough that those unanointed in micro guns should plan on range time to acclimate to its temperament. Yet, for its size and weight, the pistol isn\u2019t punishing. It\u2019s got enough grip and Springfield\u2019s aggressive advanced texturing do their parts in making the Hellcat a kitten. The pistol\u2019s ball-and-basket sights are intuitive and as quick as a three-dot can be\u2014despite being a bit quirky. Furthermore, Springfield offers the Hellcat in its optic-ready OSP variation for the cost of a box of defense ammo. That\u2019s a no-brainer upgrade.<\/p>\n<p>Even if the Hellcat won\u2019t ever be the world\u2019s most popular micro compact, it has more than proven itself among the best.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-sar-2000\"><strong>SAR 2000\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-SAR-2000.jpg\" alt=\"Med-SAR-2000\" class=\"wp-image-291293\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-SAR-2000.jpg 800w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-SAR-2000-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-SAR-2000-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-SAR-2000-696x435.jpg 696w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-SAR-2000-672x420.jpg 672w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-SAR-2000.jpg\" alt=\"Med-SAR-2000\" class=\"lazyload wp-image-291293\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-SAR-2000.jpg 800w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-SAR-2000-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-SAR-2000-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-SAR-2000-696x435.jpg 696w, https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/Med-SAR-2000-672x420.jpg 672w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">For its price point, the Turkish take on the CZ-75 is among the top clones and one heck of a value.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Generally speaking, Turkey is better known for its blue-light-special shotguns than its pistols. Truly a shame. The Anatolia peninsula is home to some of the world\u2019s most underrated handguns; case in point, the SAR 2000. While the Turkish take on the Czech classic isn\u2019t going to win the Bianchi Cup anytime soon, it is a lights-out entry-level race gun for those just cutting their teeth in competition.<\/p>\n<p>Once imported by Armalite as the AR-24, the 9mm DA\/SA pistol is essentially a CZ-75 clone fairly well mimicking the original \u201cwonder nine.\u201d However, a burgeoning competitor can expect to pay around $250 less than a CZ original. A steel frame with plenty of heft (32 ounces) and a dang respectable single-action trigger for a pistol at this price point, the SAR 2000 ($480) can run.<\/p>\n<p>Especially nice, the 4.5-inch barreled pistol boasts a thumb safety, as opposed to a de-cocker. This allows for cocked-and-locked carry, giving instant access to the 2000\u2019s crisp 5-pound break right out of the holster. Its double-action pull is \u2026 well, a double-action pull\u2014roughly 12 pounds. Furthermore, the Sarsilmaz gets the grips\u2019 ergonomics right, enhanced with a decent undercut trigger guard and high beavertail.<\/p>\n<p>Admittedly, the 2000 has some chinks in its armor. The company doesn\u2019t offer target sights, just a drift-adjustable rear, or an optics cut. Middling cocking serrations at the rear, combined with a slick pyramidal fore slide, proves unforgiving, especially under the clock. And the lack of a flared magwell complicates expedient reloads. All these likely mean those who become dedicated match shooters will eventually outgrow the 2000. Until they do, competitors should have a blast and their share of success behind the Turkish treasure.<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>Editor&#8217;s Note:<\/strong>\u00a0This article originally appeared in the October 2023 issue of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/gundigestservice.com\/customer\/subscribe.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gun Digest the Magazine<\/a><\/em>.<\/p>\n<hr\/>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-more-on-mediterranean-guns-from-this-article\"><strong>More On Mediterranean Guns From This Article:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>The <strong><a style=\"color: green;\" href=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/gun-reviews\/rifles-reviews\/cadillac-creedmoor-tascosa-rolling-block-rifle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pedersoli<\/a><\/strong> Tascosa Creedmoor Rolling Block<\/li>\n<li>The <strong><a style=\"color: green;\" href=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/rifles\/hunting-rifles\/first-look-bergara-b-14-squared-crest-rifle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bergara<\/a><\/strong> B-14 Squared Crest Rifle<\/li>\n<li>The <strong><a style=\"color: green;\" href=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/article\/new-product-benelli-super-black-eagle-3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Benelli<\/a><\/strong> Super Black Eagle 3<\/li>\n<li>Reviewing The <strong><a style=\"color: green;\" href=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/rifles\/hunting-rifles\/gaining-impetus-franchi-momentum-elite-review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Franchi<\/a><\/strong> Momentum Elite<\/li>\n<li><strong><a style=\"color: green;\" href=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/gun-reviews\/sar-2000-review-a-turkish-take-on-the-czech-classic\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SAR 2000<\/a><\/strong> Review: A Turkish Take On The Czech Classic<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"code-block code-block-22\" style=\"margin: 8px 0; clear: both;\">\n<div style=\"border: 2px solid #e5e5e5; padding: 20px; border-radius: 10px; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-271572\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/44-Targetposters-pack-GD-reduced-300-300x235.jpg\" alt=\"44-Targetposters-pack-GD-reduced-300\" width=\"300\" height=\"235\"\/><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload alignright size-medium wp-image-271572\" src=\"https:\/\/gundigest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/44-Targetposters-pack-GD-reduced-300-300x235.jpg\" alt=\"44-Targetposters-pack-GD-reduced-300\" width=\"300\" height=\"235\"\/><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"color: #333; text-align: center;\">Next Step: Get your FREE Printable Target Pack<\/h2>\n<p>Enhance your shooting precision with our 62 MOA Targets, perfect for rifles and handguns. Crafted in collaboration with Storm Tactical for accuracy and versatility.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Subscribe to the Gun Digest email newsletter<\/strong> and get your downloadable target pack sent straight to your inbox. Stay updated with the latest firearms info in the industry.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p> <!-- AI CONTENT END 1 --><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A look at some of the best firearms hardware this sun-soaked corner of the world has to offer. I\u2019ll pitch this out at the start\u2014I\u2019ve got no bone with American guns. Quite the opposite, actually. Red-blooded irons are the lifeblood of my arsenal and, generally speaking, are the first options I\u2019ll grab for a task\u2014be [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":687,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-686","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-gun-reviews"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/tactical-dailynews.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/686","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/tactical-dailynews.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/tactical-dailynews.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tactical-dailynews.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tactical-dailynews.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=686"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/tactical-dailynews.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/686\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":688,"href":"https:\/\/tactical-dailynews.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/686\/revisions\/688"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tactical-dailynews.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/687"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/tactical-dailynews.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=686"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tactical-dailynews.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=686"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/tactical-dailynews.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=686"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}