Mo' Is Better, Right?

I note that U.S. Firearms is cranking up their 2010 product line, including the 12-22, a 12 shot .22 rimfire Single Action Army clone...and yes, it is on the expensive side of the fence, $936 MSRP. It is a beautiful gun — USFA has become the gold standard for U.S. handgun manufacturing. My friend Doug Donnelly, founder of USFA, has made a commitment to build heirloom quality guns...Doug's guns make me think of being a kid again, when each new gun was a work of art worthy of at least a museum. They're "WOW!" guns.

I mentioned the USFA Double Eagle I got recently, a 3 1/2-inch .44 Special single action...you all know I have a jones for short-barreled big bores, especially .44 Specials. I started shooting the Double Eagle last week, and it's every bit as good a shooter as it looks. In fact, it has quickly become a go-to pcking pistol in a Bob Mernickle high-ride holster. We'll have DRTV video in January on the Double Eagle. BTW, I also note that USFA is adding a custom shop Sheriff's Model in .45 Colt in 2010...the Sheriff's Model differs from the Double Eagle with a half-inch shorter barrel, no front sight and no ejector rod. The ejectorless models will also be available with front sights and 2-, 3- or 4-inch barrels.

I also have to admit being drawn to the new .357 Shooting Master single action, with its big honking adjustable rear sight. All things considered, this looks like one heck of a choice for long-distance pistol shooting. The original Colt Shooting Masters were, I believe, built on the wonderful large-frame New Service DAs. I've always lusted after one of the USFA Super .38 1911s, preferably nickel-plated...