News and announcements

A Firearms News review examines Century Arms’ MKE-built AP53, a compact 5.56x45mm pistol derived from the HK53 design. The review highlights its roller-delayed action, compact dimensions, classic controls and strong range performance, while noting its weight and lack of last-round bolt hold-open.

A suitable holster should protect the trigger, retain the firearm and remain comfortable during normal daily activities. Firearms.co.za’s Moira Kloppers examines the main choices for South African firearm owners, including IWB and OWB designs, materials and fit.

A 1526 Venetian payment record provides the earliest documented evidence of Beretta’s firearm business. Five centuries later, the family-owned group spans firearms, ammunition and related companies across 50 countries.

SA Shooter has listed a used CBC 12Ga shotgun for R5,000. The listing states that only one unit remains and that collection is in store, with shipping available by separate quotation.

Firearms News reports that Bravo Company Manufacturing’s MK2 RECCE13 RAIDER ran without malfunctions and produced sub-MOA groups with selected 77-grain ammunition. The rifle combines a 13.9-inch pinned-and-welded barrel with BCM’s MK2 upper receiver, recoil system and RAIDER handguard.

The majority of new M1918A2 Browning Automatic Rifles produced for the United States during the Second World War came from companies better known for silverware, sporting goods and office machinery than firearms. A consortium of six manufacturers, supported by IBM, produced nearly 190,000 BARs for the war effort.

Germany entered World War II with a reliable but increasingly outdated five-shot bolt-action rifle. David Fortier’s account explains why efforts to replace the Karabiner 98k with self-loading rifles and the StG 44 failed to deliver enough weapons before the war ended.

A new Firearms article by Moira Kloppers examines how the body’s survival response can affect perception, decision-making and memory during a life-threatening encounter. It also explains why defensive preparation must include more than firearm handling and marksmanship.

A written parliamentary reply attributed to Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia recorded 41,297 murders involving unlicensed firearms between 2022/23 and 2025/26, compared with 393 involving firearms legally owned by licensed individuals. The figures have renewed debate over whether restrictions on lawful firearm owners would address South Africa’s firearm-related violence.

A comparison of the Glock 19, CZ P-09C and Canik TP9 series highlights differences in operating systems, ergonomics, features, magazine capacity and local support. The most suitable choice depends on the owner’s preferences, budget and access to support in South Africa.

A valid firearm licence is only one part of carrying a firearm in public in South Africa. An article by Carla examines Section 84 of the Firearms Control Act, holster requirements, concealment, restricted locations and responsible conduct around the public.

Firearms Guardian says a self-defence incident can lead to a demanding legal process even after an immediate threat has ended. Its message to firearm owners is that legal support and liability protection should be arranged before an incident occurs.