As firearms continue to sell at record pace, manufacturers are struggling to keep up with demand for existing models. Nonetheless, innovation continues. We are seeing introductions of MRDS-ready, striker-fired, polymer-frame pistols, including higher-capacity micro-9s. Also hitting the market with some frequency are large-format pistols in both rifle and pistol calibers. And, of course, super-premium 1911s continue to be unveiled at the aspirational end of the market.
With alarmed citizens looking to protect themselves, first-time buyers now seem to comprise a larger part of the firearm consumer base. As all guns may be new to them, some old standbys are moving well. So, what’s the market for sophisticated new designs? Long-range rifle competition and the simple fact that one can never have too many guns.
American Tactical | Bull-Dog
Featuring a bullpup design that keeps the overall length trim, the Bull-Dog bristles with attractive options for home-defense. Fans of the AR-15-style rifle will appreciate the familiar charging handle, while sections of rail on top of the receiver allow for optics and lights toward the muzzle.
▶ AR-style charging handle
▶ 10-round magazines are available separately
▶ Three choke tubes included
▶ Adjustable cheek rest
Gauge: 12; 3-inch chamber
Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds
Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
Overall Length: 29.5 inches
Weight: 7 pounds, 8 ounces
MSRP: $499
(800) 290-0065 americantactical.us
Century Arms | BP-12 Bullpup Shotgun
This semi-automatic bullpup shotgun comes configured for home defense right of the box. Thanks to its detachable magazine, reloads are vastly simplified over standard-configuration shotguns. Its adjustable, flip-up iron sights are easy to use and can be paired with an optic of the user’s choosing thanks to the top rail.
▶ Optics rail
▶ Flip-up iron sights
▶ Detachable-box magazine
▶ Rubber recoil pad
Gauge: 12, 3-inch chamber
Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds
Barrel Length: 19.75 inches
Overall Length: 29.25 inches
Weight: 9 pounds, 5 ounces
MSRP: $499
(561) 908-7993 centuryarms.com
EAA | Churchill 220 Optics Tactical
Now offered in 20 gauge, the EAA Churchill 220 also includes an optics rail along with an MRDS, making it a welcome candidate for those who want a purpose-built semi-automatic for home defense.
▶ Mini red-dot sight
▶ Breeching choke
▶ Pistol grip
▶ Enhanced loading port
Gauge: 20; 3-inch chamber
Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds
Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
Overall Length: 37.5 inches
Weight: 5 pounds
MSRP: $561
(321) 639-4842 eaacorp.com
EAA | Churchill 620 Optics Tactical
The company’s popular pump-action has been reconfigured with the same accessories as the 220 for those with home defense in mind.
▶ Sure-grip fore-end
▶ Breeching choke
▶ One-piece buttstock
▶ Impact-absorbing butt pad
Gauge: 20; 3-inch chamber
Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds
Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
Overall Length: 37.5 inches
Weight: 5 pounds
MSRP: $427
(321) 639-4842 eaacorp.com
IWI US | TS12F
The popular Tavor TS12 semi-automatic bullpup shotgun is now available in flat dark earth and olive drab for those who desire something other than a bland, black home-defense firearm. With its three, five-round, rotating magazine tubes, it packs a fight-stopping 15 rounds of 12-gauge shells on board, making it ideal for home defense.
▶ Two-position gas regulator
▶ M-Lok attachment points
▶ Full-length optics rail
▶ Four sling-attachment points
Gauge: 12; 3-inch chamber
Magazine Capacity: 15 rounds
Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
Overall Length: 28.3 inches
Weight: 8 pounds
MSRP: $1,399
(717) 695-2081 iwi.us
Savage Arms | 320 Security Thumbhole Ghost-Ring Sights
For those looking for a budget-conscious smooth-bore, the latest addition to Savage’s popular line of Stevens 320 Security shotguns pairs a thumbhole stock with other select defensive-oriented features. It is also available in 20 gauge.
▶ Ambidextrous cheek riser
▶ Textured pistol grip
▶ Rotary bolt
▶ Sling swivel stud on stock and magazine cap
Gauge: 12; 3-inch chamber
Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds
Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
Overall Length: 39.1 inches
Weight: 7 pounds, 4.8 ounces
MSRP: $305
(800) 370-0708 savagearms.com