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.
Heritage | Barkeep Custom Gray Pearl Grips
A wood-gripped version of the Barkeep was covered in our April issue, but this pearl-handled variant is also new for 2021 and perhaps even more striking. While by no means ideal for defense, the Barkeep is still a viable option for those on a budget and, more importantly, it is crazy fun to shoot, particularly for those who are fans of the Old West.
▶ Manual safety
▶ Gray pearl grips
▶ Interchangeable cylinder
▶ Ships with custom ejector rod
Caliber: .22 LR
Cylinder Capacity: 6 rounds
Barrel Length: 2.68 inches
Overall Length: 7.95 inches
Weight: 27 ounces
MSRP: $189.39
(229) 515-8099 heritagemfg.com
Korth | NXS
The successor to the innovative Korth Ranger, the NXS is Korth’s first eight-shot .357 Mag. wheelgun. An eight-shot 9 mm cylinder is also available as an upgrade that will allow you to switch effortlessly between the two popular calibers.
▶ Eight-shot cylinder
▶ Turkish walnut grips
▶ Fully machined parts
▶ DLC finish
Caliber: .357 Mag.
Cylinder Capacity: 8 rounds
Barrel length: 6 inches
Overall Length: 11.65 inches
Weight: 50.7 ounces
MSRP: $5,299
(877) 268-4867 nighthawkcustom.com
Manurhin | R73 Gendarmerie
Manurhin’s line of high-end wheelguns is now available in the U.S., thanks to Beretta. If you’ve been looking to take your revolver game to the next level, 2021 may just be the year.
▶ Full underlug
▶ Fully-adjustable target sights
▶ Ergonomic rubber grip
▶ Overtravel stop
Caliber: .357 Mag.
Cylinder Capacity: 6 rounds
Barrel Length: 4 inches
Overall Length: 9.17 inches
Weight: 33.5 ounces
MSRP: $3,299
(800) 237-3882 beretta.com
