A.J. Holst

Ok, it may be a little biased since I own one. I was looking for a plinker, the Ruger 10/22 #1 on the list. Then my buddy bought a HiPoint 995 Carbine. After I did as much internet research I could on the brand and model, this too was a viable option as a plinker with the potential as a HD carbine if proved safe and reliable. On the HiPoint website, there is a pic posted of a deer slain by the hunter with a 995 carbine, so it MAY also be acceptable as a short range hunting rifle with the right optics and ammo. I paid $175 for the carbine from above mentioned buddy, unfired condition. It is a older "B" model with the planet-of-the-apes stock. Never shot with that stock, upgraded to the $40 ATI Beretta-clone stock. I like the look MUCH better. Sighted in at 50 yards, 1" - 4" groups depending on who is shooting it. Found out from additional internet research that ATI stock can void the lifetime warranty, but damage only seems to occur from heavy use and I am in the light use category. Bought a $40 bi-pod, really getting the mall ninja tacti-cool look and way fun to shoot! Then 3 weeks ago, another buddy gave me a Crimson Trace MVF-515 foregrip. So now I've got a foregrip that probably costs more than the weapon... 2 Options: by a rail system from ATI for $40+ OR Spend another $40 to purchase the TS style stock from HP. Went with this option: needed rails to mount the cool new grip plus with a factory-designed stock so no warranty issues if I have a problem. The TS stock is a well made piece of molded polymer-stuff. Good design for easy field-stripping. It has good ergos for me. I find it more comfortable than the ATI stock, The TS stock is advertised with pictinnany rails but the foregrip has wider locking lugs. The rails are made from another type of hard polymer material and since I had nothing to loose, I widened the rails with a file and the grip fits properly. Upsides of my first EBR "build": low investment, free parts, simple mechanicals, versatile and affordable caliber. Fit and finish are pretty good. Acceptable machine chatter marks. Been pretty fun to work on with basic tools. With the TS stock, if I have a malfunction in the field, I can dis-assemble in a pinch if all I have is a pair of pliers. Downsides of the product: 10 round magazines, apparently pro-mag put out a 15 but everything I have read indicated it was not reliable. The mags are only $10 and you get what you pay for. Meaning you have to break-in the mags may have to adjust the mag lips to ensure reliable feeding. The trigger action is OK, but you'll have to judge for yourself. I haven't shot it enough to review the comleted package with the TS stock but will post an update for those interested.

What could you buy a similar rifle for at an LGS? 3 options: Save a few bucks from Bud's or other reputable internet broker; get questionable service after the sale at WM; or spend a few more bucks local. I would simply eliminate WM from the decision making process. Imagine this: your WM EBR breaks, you stroll into the hunting dept, slap it down on the counter and request it be repaired under warranty. The clerk points out the owners manual comes with an insert that says 'do not return to retailer, call 800-328-7448 for warranty inquires and repairs' Good luck, sir.

Big K, my buddy just put some Heinie's on his Berettas, really like them. MemphisJim, great point and a laser is a great dry-fire practice aid. I remember the first few times for me that little red dot was shaking all over the target.

DaG, My carbine only has a 10 round mag, so if I understand correctly for a typical rifle stage, I would need to carry 3 mags for a 30 round count. Thanks, AJ

BigK, Have you tried out the XS on any of your CZs? I have a 75B with Tru Dots which work well, but if there is something better...

I am considering attending the ORSA 3-Gun on 10/16 and it will be my first event of this type, only my second "competition" My question is in regards to the rifle portion. 1. What kind of rifles are used? 2. What distances are you typically shooting? 3. What is the ammo load per magazine? Thanks, AJ

I checked out their website, with membership the competition fees are $10 instead of $15. Not sure the other benefits of memberships, being so far from Seymour, I can't justify joining. I am seriously considering the Oct 16 3-gun shoot, since it falls on a Sunday. ORSA Home Page

I placed 12 out of 13 overall, 11 out of 13 on accuracy. The shooting from my behind covered killed me; penalties for dropping my mag during mandatory reload and I think for stepping out (to my weak/ right side) from behind cover. The total cost was $10.00 for match, my buddy supplied the ammo and a dual mag carrier. I also spent $30.00 for a new OWB holster. Not real clear on the rules, but I normally carry AIWB and was told this carry method is not allowed. I wish I could have competed with my normal carry style. Sorry about the "real world" comment, I like kittens. I checked out MCTS via the web - really cool scenarios! In East TN the Oak Ridge Sportsman's Assn hosts different matches, the only one I could try would be the 3 gun (pistol / rifle / shotgun) since it falls on a Sunday - now that looks pretty cool. Anyone interested in trying it out, GO FOR IT!!! S different from static paper target shooting

Got to participate in my first IDPA last weekend in north GA. IT WAS AN AWESOME EXPERIENCE!!! First and foremost, the folks are great. I imagine this friendly and welcoming atttitude is very prevelant throughout the IPDA community. When I was meeting the other shooters and telling them it was my first time, the resounding response was, "you will have fun." The reason I posted this in Carry / SD Forum is it was a real eye opener for what can happen in the real world. My first time up, 13 people watching, heart pumping, hands jittery, sites a little shaky! Made me really reflect on how much more adrenline will be pumping in the event of a real scenario. Where I really had a problem was shooting from behind cover to my weak side. Leaning to the left, no issues; leaning to the right, YIKES!!! The other thing was shooting at multiple opponents. Had I ued my SP101, my times may have doubled with the re-loads. Made me much more certain of carrying my CZ75B with at least one extra mag. Handguns represented at the match: Glocks, M&Ps, Beretta, CZ, and one 1911

I have a 9mm carbine and need to get a bore snake for easier cleaning. What standard rifle caliber will work? Thanks, AJ

I've got a HP 995 Planet of the Apes Model Carbine. It's the original "classic" stock, the TS models look a little better. Contrary to popular belief, I have not be maimed or killed from an explosion of my pot-metal p-o-s HP After tweaking the mag lips and running 100 rounds of FMJ through it during break-in, it has become a great plinker. Shooting 25 - 50 yards, it makes me look like a pretty good shot. Sitting around 1500 rounds now and no failures or malfunctions of any kind. I don't like the trigger on the carbine or pistol. I wil probably completely disassemble the trigger assembly and polish the parts to see if it makes it any better. You also have limited mag capacity. 10 rounds for both the carbine and pistol. For the pistol, for the size and weight, there are many options for higher capacity pistol I have seen postive reports on their warranty and customer service. If you're looking for a in-expensive, solid full-size 9mm for range or truck use, I think it's worth $100. If you hate it, you can probably post on Armslist and get your $100 back out of it. I proabably would not buy the pistol, but have been intriqued by their new 4595, a .45acp carbine.

I took the advice of calling the ATF Knoxville Field Office; this is how it was explained to me by the agent I spoke to: The GA-resident owner CAN travel to TN and in the presence of a TN FFL, sell / gift the handgun to the TN resident OR The handgun must be legally shipped to a TN FFL

Thanks for all the feedback and yes, we were trying to figure out how to avoid the shipping charge as my buddy won't be able to travel to TN before heading back to Afghanistan. I am heading down this weekend to visit before he heads out and have an opportunity to participate in my first IDPA event on Sunday so I am pretty excited about the trip. His gunshop will ship back to TN for $40.00 so it's a pretty good deal, but if I could save the $40... (I will call Bill's Outpost tomorrow to see if they would be OK with a BoS faxed)

I currently have a handgun on loan from a GA. resident for sporting purposes. I am now redy to take possession of said handgun. Is it as simple as taking the bll of sale and handgun to a TN FFL? If so, any recommendations for an FFL in the Knox area? Thanks.

My son just went out of state for his second year of college. A young lady invited him to and he attended a Young Democrats meeting. If a young lady invited me, I would probably would have gone too. He DID NOT join!!! Politics aside, after the meeting it was announced there was a party and everyone over 21 to bring beer FOR THOSE OF YOU UNDER 21 BRING MONEY AND WE WILL GET YOU BEER. I certainly don't think the Y.D.'s are unique in partying, but if you are sending off your kids to college, please talk to them about the availability of sex, drugs and alcohol and resist the temptations.

I bought the Nicotek $19.99 starter kit at Pilot 3 weeks ago. The starter kit comes with a battery, USB charger and 2 cartridges The only thing I had to get use to was it doesn't draw like a real cig. For me, 3 cartridges ($9.95 / 3 pack) will last about a week and the battery will go 1 - 2 days between charge. Pretty good flavor too. I use the 1.2% nicotine concentration cartridges and it does a great job of taking off the "lack-of-nicotine edge" Like Lester, I find the vapor is more irritating than the Marlboro Ultra Lights I was smoking (about 3 packs / week) While not a healthy alternative, it's got to be slighter safer than good old tobacco smokes.

CZ75B or SP101, IWB, 11:00 position, wallet & Swiss Army knife LF, phone & loose change RF.

Have you looked at the GP100? May be a better choice in the horseback riding scenario. I love my SP, second most favorite handgun in my small arsenal. You might also want to look at the Ruger "Sixes" (Security / Service / Speed) which were the predecessors to the SP / GP. I have heard they have better factory triggers than the SP / GP. I had an LCR in .38 and it wasn't particularly fun to shoot and wouldn't consider it or most snubbies, including the SP, as a "trail gun"

I would have to say not just the ladies, but all of us! You don't necessarily need to have a gun to avoid becoming a victim.

A little off topic, but a few reasons I stopped carrying .357 Mag in my SP101: As Jonnin states, in a a shorter barrelled pistol you don't get the best performance from the round; in a SD scenario I am not worried about penetrating glass or door panels; more money than .38; popping off a few rounds in a dark room at 2am will be as disorienting to me as to the BG; less wear and tear on my revolver. I do however, enjoy the attention of shooting .357 at an indoor range...

Pot in the car, along with a loaded, easily accessible handgun...When I'm packing, I always leave my weed at home.

I am also new to the 1911 world, one year anniversary next month with my Metro Arms AC Commander. I really like my 1911 but LOVE my CZ75B Omega (and SP101). Like HiPower, my 1911 is a range toy and house gun. My diehard 1911 buddy just "upgraded" to a pair a of M&Ps in .45...

I have the 995 Classic carbine and have been very pleased with my purchase, $175 OTD for nib. After break in of 200 rounds, no FTFeed / FTFire / FTE I did a lot of research on the brand and aside from the "my buddy had one that exploded" stories, I never did find a verifiable HP kaboom. I have shot a C9 and didn't like the trigger either. For a handgun of it's weight, the only draw back I see is ammo capacity. Jeff Quinn / GunBlast did a nice write up on the 995 TS carbine and recommended it as a viable home defense carbine. Congrats on your purchase and don't forget about the lifetime no-questions-asked warranty. If you are into light gunsmithing, HP will send you the parts to replace in the event of breakage so you don't have to ship it back to HP.

The SP (with hammer) was my first carry gun, so I have a rather extensive collection of holsters... Step 1 was to get GOOD BELT. Helps to offset the weight for pocket carry. Started with the Don Hume pocket holster. Beautiful piece of leather, but I didn't take the time to fully break it in, holds the pistol VERY securely; so not a quick draw rig. Got a generic Simply Rugged, easier to draw, but it will move around in your pocket. Then tried OWB with a Bianchi, I don't like OWB, so it quickly ended up in the box. Switched to IWB with a $12.00 Uncle Mikes. Didn't hold the pistol securely, ended up in the box Then I got a Kholster. Takes 50+ draws to break it in and is very comfortable. It too is in the box, though I use still use it on ocassion. Currently using the High Noon Hidden Ally. Easy on and off, easy draw and holds the pistol securely. Only draw back is a softer leather, so when you do draw, the holster collapses so re-holstering is not fast nor easy. If I went back to dedicated pocket carry, I would look at a Nemesis or similar type of rig. Personally I don't like pocket carry in jeans, but have been most comfortable with fuller cut pants, either dress or khaki-style with pleats as opposed to flat front. Lately I have been looking at ankle holsters for the SP. A lot of feedback has been "too heavy for comfort"

Kohl's has a great selection of "Camp Shirts" made popular by Charlie Sheen on 2 1/2 Men. I just picked up eight, all under $12.00 (clearance rack). Shirts are square cut for untucked wear. They are also pretty full cut, so the mediums I got easily conceal a CZ75 with little to no printing.