SinistralRifleman

by Luke C.

APPLE: Behind the Gun

Discussing FAST, my new two-gun competition with Luke on The Firearm Blog’s Behind the Gun. In this episode we cover:

“Today, we sit down with Russell Phagan, a name well known to fans of the Brutality match series, to discuss his new independent firearms competition venture: Fast-Matches.org. This new two-gun competition format is designed to bring fast-paced, physically engaging challenges to shooters across the country and have a good time while doing it. Russell breaks down the structure of his unique divisions for both two-gun and rifle-only matches, explaining how they’re built to reward marksmanship, movement, and efficiency over simple brute force or expensive gear advantages. He’ll also cover what new shooters should bring and how to prepare for their first match. With upcoming events launching in the Pacific Northwest later this year and plans to expand nationwide in subsequent years, today, you will also get an inside look at how Fast-Matches is reshaping the landscape of two-gun shooting. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just a range enthusiast looking for a fun way to spend the weekend with your range buddies, today, Russell should provide you with sufficient motivation to get off the sidelines and join up to do your part in keeping this fun firearms sport alive.”

READ: Palmetto State Armory SABRE AK-47 GF5: Modernized American AK

Contribution for RECOIL.

“In 2026 there aren’t many good reasons to buy an AK, particularly not one in a combloc caliber. Import restrictions on both parts kits and ammunition have steadily driven up costs. Long gone are the days of a decent AK costing half as much as a decent AR-15. Now, an AR-15 can cost half what an AK does. 

My reason for wanting a new AK was for use at the growing number of “Red Oktober” and “Cold War” action rifle matches that have divisions for Kalashnikov-based designs and prioritize their use. Some of these matches differentiate between 7.62x39mm and 5.45x39mm/5.56mm guns in their division rules, others do not. 

Regardless of the match rules there are already a myriad of 5.56mm NATO rifles in my safe, and if another full-size semi auto rifle is going to be added, I’d prefer it to do something different than the rest. Accordingly, I wanted something in 7.62x39mm to deliver more energy to target. Managing more recoil can be a fun part of the challenge, and it will knock down steel targets with more authority than 5.45x39mm or 5.56mm NATO.” Read More……