EF
reviews
The Colt Model 1911: The Pistol That Defined a Century
The Springfield Armory 1915: A Modern Classic Reimagined In my fifteen years behind the bench, I have seen a lot of firearms come through my shop d...
Chris Tanner
Chris Tanner
Chris Tanner is a licensed gunsmith who has been building, modifying, and repairing firearms for over 15 years. He runs a small shop in Arizona and has built everything from precision long-range rigs to SBR suppressor hosts to competition race guns. His writing is fueled by an infectious enthusiasm for the craft and a deep belief that understanding how your firearm works makes you a better shooter and a better owner.
gunsmithing AR-15 builds parts and upgrades suppressors triggers barrels handguards cerakote and finishing firearm customization compatibility and fitment
55 articles published
Articles by Chris Tanner
EF
comparisons
Appendix Carry: Is AIWB the Right Choice for You?
Introduction: The Great 6mm ARC Showdown Welcome back to the bench, everyone. If you've been following my shop for any length of time, you know I l...
Chris Tanner
EF
reviews
Rugged Suppressors Axial Review: Low Back Pressure Without Sacrificing Sound
The Legend of the Ultra Magnum In my fifteen years behind a workbench, I have built rifles for hunters chasing elk on steep slopes and competitors ...
Chris Tanner
EF
news
Vortex Gives the Crossfire II Red Dot a Solar-Powered Overhaul
Vortex Optics Unveils Solar-Powered Crossfire II Red Dot Tucson, Arizona (July 2026) — Vortex Optics has officially announced a significant update ...
Chris Tanner
EF
comparisons
The Greatest (and Oddest) Wildcat Cartridges, According to a Legendary Gun Writer
Browning vs. Remington: A Smith's Deep Dive into Two Legends Welcome to the workbench, friends. I'm Chris Tanner, and if you've been following my s...
Chris Tanner
EF
news
Jack O’Connor Explains Why Bird Hunters Got Shotgun Selection and Barrel Length All Wrong
The Myth of the 30-Inch Full-Choke: Revisiting Jack O'Connor's Upland Shotgun Philosophy In a recent analysis published by Outdoor Life, legendary ...
Chris Tanner
EF
guides
Fall 2026 Ammo Buying Guide: What to Stock Up On Now
Heading into fall 2026, it's a smart time to stock up on ammo for hunting season and range practice. A working gunsmith breaks down what to buy acr...
Chris Tanner
deals
Best Shotgun Deals: Current Picks
Defensive shotgun deals worth acting on: Mossberg 590 Persuader and Retrograde, the mil-spec M590A1 SPX, a Stoeger P3000 Defense, and compact pisto...
Chris Tanner
deals
Best Ammunition Deals: Current Picks
Stock up: the best range-ammo deals right now on 22LR, 5.56 NATO, 9mm, and 45 ACP FMJ, plus a bulk 200-round 5.56 pack — every price pulled from li...
Chris Tanner
EF
reviews
Marlin 1894 Trapper 44Rem Mag 16.1" Black Review: Complete Analysis
Introduction When you’re looking for a classic lever-action rifle with modern reliability and the raw power of a magnum cartridge, the Marlin 1894 ...
Chris Tanner
EF
reviews
Remington 870 Express 12ga Review: Complete Analysis
Introduction When it comes to 12-gauge shotguns, few names carry the weight of Remington. The company’s legacy in firearms is unmatched, and their ...
Chris Tanner
EF
deals
Budget-Friendly Optics: Best Deals Available
Budget-Friendly Optics: Best Deals Available This Week Right now, you can grab some of the most affordable yet reliable optics on the market — and ...
Chris Tanner
EF
reviews
CZ-USA CZ P-10 C 9mm Review: Complete Analysis
Introduction When it comes to the 9mm platform, there’s no shortage of options, but few have captured the attention of both concealed carry enthusi...
Chris Tanner
EF
comparisons
FN M249S Para FDE vs Sig Sauer MCX-Spear LT: Which is Better?
1. FN M249S Para FDE 5.56NATO 16.1" Barrel 30+1/200+1 (FN) 2. Sig Sauer MCX-Spear LT IR 5.56NATO 16" Barrel 30+1 (Sig Sauer) When comparing the FN...
Chris Tanner
EF
reviews
Smith & Wesson M&P 5.7 Handgun - Optic Ready/Thumb Review: Complete Analysis
Introduction The Smith & Wesson M&P 5.7 is a modern take on the classic 1911 platform, reimagined for today’s shooter with a focus on reliability, ...
Chris Tanner
EF
comparisons
Chiappa M1-9 Carbine 9mm vs CHRISTENSEN ARMS 308 RIDGELINE: Which is Better?
1. Chiappa M1-9 Carbine 9mm 19" Barrel 10+1 500-136 vs CHRISTENSEN ARMS 308 RIDGELINE — Which is Better? When comparing the Chiappa M1-9 Carbine 9...
Chris Tanner
EF
reviews
Holosun 507C X2 Review: Complete Analysis
Introduction When it comes to red dot sights, the Holosun 507C X2 has become a favorite among competitive shooters, law enforcement, and concealed ...
Chris Tanner
EF
comparisons
Springfield Hellion Gear up vs Browning BL-22 Nickel Engraved: Which is Better?
1. Springfield Hellion Gear up 5.56NATO 16" Barrel 30+1 When you're looking for a modern, fully-featured AR-15 platform rifle in a compact, bullpup...
Chris Tanner
EF
reviews
Savage Rascal 22LR 16.125" Single Shot Orange Review: Complete Analysis
Introduction When it comes to single-shot .22LR rifles, the Savage Rascal 22LR 16.125" Single Shot Orange stands out as a solid entry-level option ...
Chris Tanner
EF
reviews
Mossberg 590 Shockwave 20 Gauge 14" 5+1 Review: Complete Analysis
Introduction The Mossberg 590 Shockwave 20 Gauge 14" 5+1 is one of the most talked-about shotguns in the modern sporting market. It's not just anot...
Chris Tanner