Overview

In S.W.A.T.'s April 2010 issue, we take a critical look at an old workhorse, the M14. The weapon's substantial weight, difficulties in procuring the M14 in large numbers for troops, and its relatively poor ergonomics, all conspire against the rifle as a praiseworthy 7.62mm military firearm. Other features this month include reviews of the H-S Precision HTR101, Taurus PT 709, and The Noveske/VTAC rifle. Also covered are two training courses: Magpul Dynamics' Carbine 1, and Yavapai's Tactical Handgun Stage 1. Rounding out the issue are a review of Benchmade's new out-the-front automatic knife, the Infidel, reviews of essential combat gear for the tropics, and several columns on tactics and training strategy and awareness.



Columns
The Briefing Room
New Guns, New Leaders
by Denny Hansen

Street Smarts
Car Chase Fun!
by Brent T. Wheat

Against All Odds
Ultimate Proving Ground
by Jeff Randall

Frontline Debriefs
Why I Eat Left-Handed
by Scott Reitz

Enemy at the Gate
Proudly Redneck
by Claire Wolfe

Training & Tactics
Episode Of Enlightenment
by Louis Awerbuck


Departments
Mail Room:
Letters from our Readers
Staff

Lawful Carry:
Blackhawk! Homeland Security Discreet Case
Flint Hansen

Long Guns:
Valdada Pitbull Tactical Scope and Colt CGL
Leroy Thompson

Offbeat:
RAT Fire Kit
Reuben Bolieu

The Cutting Edge:
Benchmade Infidel
Leroy Thompson

Gear Locker:
New Products and Accessories
Staff

 
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Features

SLAYING THE SACRED COW
Myth of the M14 Rifle

by Mike Jones

WANTED BY THE BEST
Israel Adopts the H-S Precision HTR101

by Denny Hansen

WOUNDED WARRIOR!
Magpul Dynamics Carbine 1

by Paul Gardner

LEAN AND VERY MEAN
Taurus PT 709

by Bob Pilgrim

PURE SHOOTING PLEASURE
Noveske/VTAC Rifle

by Ethan Jones

BACK TO BASICS
Yavapai Firearms Academy Tactical Handgun

by Nathan Paskey

PASSING THE TORCH
Laser Devices OV-2 Weapon Light

by Patrick A. Rogers