Big Stones Armory | Gunsmithing & Fine Firearms Forum - Recent Topics

How Old Firearm Designs Still Influence Modern Guns

Chris GunCraft Pro Anderson — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 13:22:58 +0000

It's astounding how much old-school gun designs still influence our weapons today. The 1911 is over a century old and remains a popular choice, while Stoner's 1950s AR-15 is the gold standard among rifles today. Even modern striker-fired pistols owe much to Hi-Power pistols from yesteryear.

Classic designs such as the Mauser action remain at the core of most bolt-action rifles today, while its robust yet straightforward design keeps inspiring new platforms.

Bottom line? Great designs last and stand the test of time. What old-school firearm do you believe still holds up today?

Hunting Ethics: Where Do You Draw the Line?

Chris GunCraft Pro Anderson — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 13:17:44 +0000

Hunt responsibly, hunt respectfully. That means no waste, no unnecessary suffering and always following fair chase principles. If someone uses high-tech gear to shoot down deer at 800 yards with no skill involved, then that doesn't qualify as hunting!

Trophy hunting without actually using or donating the meat seems pointless to me; I won't even discuss those who shoot more than their tags allow.

At its core, hunting is about respecting animals, land, and tradition. Where should one draw the line?

Unpopular Opinions: Firearm Trends That Need to Stop

Chris GunCraft Pro Anderson — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 13:09:32 +0000

Well, let me be blunt--overcustomized guns that barely run are no better than overpriced custom motorcycles or cars. Attaching every conceivable attachment to an AR or Glock doesn't improve it - typically, ending up with something heavier than a brick that jams every two mags is not the way forward! Keep things simple for best results.

Unnecessary calibers for no good reason is another of these issues; do you really require a 10mm for EDC or even a.50 BMG for "home defense?" Shot placement should take precedence over caliber; after all, we aren't stopping tanks here.

And let's not forget the gold-plated and flashy guns - although not uncommon, firearms should never be seen as fashion statements; function always comes before looks.

What firearm trends would you like to see change? Tell us your ideas here!

Zombie Apocalypse Loadout – What Would You Choose

Chris GunCraft Pro Anderson — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 12:59:41 +0000

Now hear me out: an AR-15 for versatility, a Glock 19 as backup, and a machete as close combat weapons would all make for great zombie survival kits. Ammo may become scarce, so practicality and ease of maintenance should be prioritized over the quantity of ammo available for firing.

What would your zombie survival kit include?

Debunking Myths About Firearms: What’s the Worst Advice You’ve Heard?

Chris GunCraft Pro Anderson — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 12:44:34 +0000

Man, there's a lot of poor gun advice out there. One example: "Racking a shotgun will scare off an intruder." While that may work in movies, in real life, relying solely on noise alone is already too late a strategy.

"No need to aim a shotgun." Not quite! Even up close, its spread isn't that wide - aiming will still help prevent missing shots!

Ouch! And don't believe any assertions that "just buying one gun will cover everything". Perhaps if your focus remains exclusively on hunting or home defense - these activities require different equipment!

What's the worst gun myth you've encountered? Share it!

Weapon Lights vs. Lasers: Which Do You Prefer and Why?

Chris GunCraft Pro Anderson — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 12:34:54 +0000

Weapon lights offer several distinct advantages over laser sights for quick aiming in awkward positions. Although I generally opt for weapon lights over laser sights, both do have their own distinct advantages; if forced to choose, however, weapon lights would always win out.

What's your choice and why?

What’s Your Favorite WW2-Era Firearm and Why?

david wilson — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 07:39:05 +0000

My choice would have to be the M1 Garand; its iconic sound when its clip is released and game-changer status during World War I make it irresistibly appealing. Are you more of a rifle person or do you prefer classic sidearms such as the 1911?

Tips for Keeping Your Firearms in Top Shape Year-Round

david wilson — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 07:20:23 +0000

Maintaining your firearms doesn't have to be difficult - with regular care, your firearms should run smooth all year. Here's what I do to maintain mine:

Regular Cleaning - Even when not firing it regularly, dust and moisture can accumulate over time, which needs to be removed by using CLP and a bore snake to maintain optimal performance.
Proper Storage - Humidity can be dangerous! I use silica gel packs in my safe to absorb excess humidity, as well as a dehumidifier, to prevent rust.
Lube Sparingly - Lubricate but Don't Overdo It - Even just a tiny amount of oil goes a long way toward protecting against grime buildup, while excessive amounts may attract even more of it, creating more issues than it solves.
Check Your Springs & Screws - Spring-loaded devices such as mag springs, recoil springs and scope mounts can wear down over time and need regular inspection. Give these components the attention they deserve by performing a visual check now and again.
Shoot It! - Nothing is worse than having a gun that won't operate when needed, so take it out to the range and cycle a few magazines through it to ensure everything functions as expected.

What's your go-to tip for firearm maintenance? Tell us all about it!

How Changing Gun Laws Have Impacted Your State

david wilson — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 06:54:56 +0000

Gun laws have recently undergone many shifts and modifications that have had an effectful ripple-through. My state, for instance, has witnessed tighter regulations around magazine capacity and background checks - making buying firearms more of a task - while others have expanded constitutional carry making carrying easier for law-abiding folks.

Have the recent changes impacted gun owners in your state positively or negatively? Share how it has impacted you! Would love to know!

The Most Underrated Firearms Nobody Talks About

david wilson — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 06:48:17 +0000

One can never have enough great guns! For me, the CZ 75 stands out; smooth, accurate, and built like a tank yet often overlooked. Another is the Ruger PC Carbine--9mm takedown capable of using Glock magazines - why don't more people talk about it? Also don't forget the FN FAL; an AR-10 overshadowed battle-proven.308 monster.

What firearm would be on your shortlist as an underrated piece? Let's hear some hidden gems!