7th May : Beretta CX4 Storm

Name     :     Beretta CX4 Storm


AKA       :     The Storm, The sci-fi blaster

Caliber     :     9x19mm Parabellum, 9x21mm IMI, .40 S&W, .45 ACP


Capacity   :     8 to 32 Rounds


Weight     :     5.75lbs or 2.6kg


Length     :     29.7in or 754mm


Action      :     Closed bolt, Blowback operated, semi automatic carbine


Origin       :     Italy


Introduced in 2003 as part of the "X4 Storm" family this small pistol caliber carbine looks somewhat futuristic and employs a great deal versatility in its design.  Within the "X4 Storm" family of firearms there is the PX4 pistol (the magazines of which are usable in CX4), the CX4 carbine and the RX4 5.56mm Assault Rifle.  All of the firearms in this family make large use of polymer in their construction, with a focus on ergonomics, modularity and reliability.  The CX4 as of 2012 is largely a sports shooter / plinking firearm, with the exception of one U.S. Law Enforcement Agency in Alabama County, New York, currently using it.  Venezuela and India have employed it for special duties within their respective armed forces, with the later having the full automatic version.  


The modularity aspect of this firearm is one of its best features, capable of having four picatinny rails for the mounting of optics and accessories.  Beretta also market a suppressor for the CX4 carbine with the model number EU00029.  Spacers are supplied with the carbine to aid the length of stock to suit the different needs of users, though only one .5in spacer is included.  The CX4 9mm will accept any Beretta PX4 or 92 series magazine, a great feature as the price and availability of these magazines is good.  The .40 Smith and Wesson magazines that can be used are of PX4 .40 type and the .45 ACP compatible magazines are from the .45 caliber single stack Beretta Cougar pistols.  


Reversible controls are by no means new, but it never ceases to a great selling point on any firearm, and the CX4 is no exception.  Safety button, magazine release and cocking handle are all reversible on the CX4 for a left handed shooter and interestingly Beretta have also included the option of switching the ejector to extract and release empty shell cases on either side too.  Disassembly on the CX4 is also a breeze, after a safety check is done and the magazine has been removed, one simply pushes the disassembly pin all the way through the carbine, and the upper and lower receiver separate, the bolt handle is pulled out and the whole bolt carrier group out.  Access to the barrel is now available and to inspect the bolt a U clam is slid off and the guide rod is removed, exposing the ejector and extractor.


INTERESTING FACT :  The CX4 may become a lot more common, several major Law Enforcement Agencies are currently evaluating the CX4 for a spot in the armory. 


PRO's   :   Great Accuracy, Lightweight, Handy size, ambidextrous controls


CON's   :   Common complaints : Magazine seating, squishy button like triggers


COOL FACTOR :  6/10

2nd of April : Marlin 9mm Camp Carbine

Name     :   Marlin 9mm Camp Carbine


AKA       :   The Camper, Camp 9

Magazine

Caliber    :  9x19mm Parabellum


Capacity  :  12 Rounds 


Weight    :   6.75lbs or 3.1kg


Length    :   35.5in or 90.6cm


Action     :  Blowback


Origin     :   U.S.A.


The Marlin 9mm Camp Carbine was introduced in 1985 for the hunter / outdoors man market.  The carbine had a short production period as it was discontinued in 1999.  Its principal attraction was the fact it fired a standard, economical and widely used cartridge that many people would already be purchasing for their pistols.  A light recoiling round in carbine form, allowing the user to be able to achieve the most that the 9mm round had to offer.  Higher muzzle energies and accuracy were inherent through the carbines long barrel added with the light almost  negligible recoil allowed fast follow up shots, something that the average varmit hunter would appreciate over the .22 long rifle, so often used for disposing of pests.  The carbine it was said generally proffered heavier rounds such as the 124 and 147 grain rounds over the inexpensive 115 grain full metal jacket. 


At the time of development it was decided to introduce the carbine with a magazine in common with a popular 9mm pistol.  The magazine type chosen was from the Smith and Wesson 59 series of pistols, a then market leading pistol. During that time Glock was still trying to gain a foothold in the American shooting market, come hence there was no intent to make the magazine common with the model 17, as so often happens with carbines of this type today.  


The carbines appearance has more than a passing resemblance to the Ruger 10/22 or even the M1 Carbine, something I believe was intentional to appeal to the outdoorsman to whom the 10/22 is something of legend, and continues to be.  Furnished in a smooth maine birch stock with the quality metal workmanship of Marlin firearms, the Camp Carbine is well made.  The top of the receiver is drilled and tapped all ready for scope rings to be attached.  Sling mounts can be found on the bottom rear of the stock and the end of the front forearm.  


Accessories are numerous for this carbine.  Magazines of many sizes are available including drums.  A wide array of aftermarket stocks flooded the market after it's introduction, giving the carbine a tactical look.  As expected many became interested in suppressing the carbine as well, and today there are suppressors for the end of the muzzle as well as full length attaching models as well.


Interesting Fact :  The 9mm version was not alone, they also made a Camp Carbine in .45 ACP that accepted standard 1911 magazines.


PRO's :   Well made, Many aftermarket options, handy size, 


CON's :   Out of production the carbines have become expensive.


COOL FACTOR : 5/10