Underrated Firearm Gems Every Shooter Should Know

Firearms enthusiasts often have a fondness for unconventional choices that standout from the crowd. These guns, known for their unique features and versatility, are often overlooked by mainstream shooters. This article explores some of these underrated firearms, highlighting their peculiar characteristics and why they are worth considering, whether you're a hobbyist or a seasoned professional.

The JammO-Matic: A Gun for Fun and Frugality

The JammO-Matic, or Jimenez JA-22, is one such firearm. It’s a budget-friendly option that brings more joy than one might expect from a $125 investment. However, its entertainment value significantly increases with a bit of DIY work. Start by field stripping it with a ballpoint pen and then refine it with a Dremel and Flitz. This process is more than just cleaning; it transforms the JammO-Matic into a visually appealing and personalized weapon.

Once spruced up, it’s time to return to the range with Ctermi Velocitors rounds. This firearm, with its blowback action, provides accurate bullet ignition and rapid fire capabilities—up to 61 rounds almost instantly. While it may be finicky with cartridges like the Remington Golden Bullets, its reliability diminishes after a few magazines due to its prone nature to dirt and jamming.

For close-quarters precision, the JammO-Matic is still a decent choice, especially for target practice. It excels in hitting 1-inch diameter blaze orange targets at 20 feet without breaking a sweat. Whether you're at the range or just pecking away at targets, the JammO-Matic is a delightful firearm to own, if for no other reason than it provides a good dose of fun and personal satisfaction.

However, when it comes to nightly carry, the JammO-Matic might not do the job. Its lack of an extractor and its blowback feature make carrying it more cumbersome. In these situations, a reliable backup, such as a Beretta 21-A, is a better choice. The 21-A, with its own set of features, offers a satisfying balance of functionality and reliability. Additionally, having a 4-inch poker for removal of jammed cartridges is a practical tool to keep handy.

Popular yet Underrated Guns: The AK-47 and M16A4

The AK-47 and M16A4 are two firearms that stand out for their enduring popularity and reliability, despite often being overshadowed by more hyped models. The AK-47, a Soviet assault rifle developed in the aftermath of World War II, is a testament to its enduring design. Manufactured by the Izhevsk Mechanical Factory in Izhevsk, Russia, it remains a favored choice for its reliability, ease of use, and robust design. The AK-47#39;s closed-bolt firing mechanism makes it particularly suited for close quarters combat, firing 7.62x39mm ammunition at a rate of 300-600 rounds per minute. The versatility and durability of the AK-47 have made it a fixture in numerous conflicts across the globe, including Vietnam, Chechnya, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria.

Another noteworthy firearm, the M16A4, is a more modern iteration of the M16 rifle, designed to meet the needs of contemporary military operations. Featuring an 5.56x45mm NATO cartridge, the M16A4 is lightweight, compact, and powerful enough to penetrate body armor. The M16A4 is a standard-issue rifle for U.S. military personnel and has several variants, including the M16A2 with a shorter barrel and the M16A5, which is chambered in 308 Winchester, an ideal choice for sniper engagements. The M16A4's adaptability and reliable performance make it a top contender in modern military arsenals.

FN P90: A Unique Tactical Option

The FN P90 is a semi-automatic firearm that has caught the eye of many tactical enthusiasts due to its unique design and performance. Developed by Fabrique Nationale Herstal (FN) in 1991, the FN P90 is based on the renowned Belgian FN FAL battle rifle. Equipped with a 30-round detachable box magazine, the FN P90 fires 9x19mm Parabellum ammunition at a cyclic rate of 850 rpm and a firing rate of 450 rounds per minute. Its magazine and firing rate make it stand out in a crowd of semi-automatic weapons. It is currently in use by various militaries around the world for its robust semi-automatic capabilities and its distinctive appearance.

The FN P90, while powerful, requires careful handling and maintenance. Its unique dual feed system, which feeds magazines from both the top and bottom, adds complexity and demands attention to detail. Despite this, its superior control and reliable performance make it a valuable addition to any tactical arsenal. The FN P90 has also gained a reputation in the ?exible use in special operations, due to its portability and high rate of fire.

In conclusion, these firearms, when considered in the right context, offer a wealth of advantages that can be both fun and functional. Whether it be the infidelity of the JammO-Matic, the no-nonsense reliability of the AK-47, the adaptability of the M16A4, or the unique capabilities of the FN P90, each has its place in the ever-evolving world of firearms. Exploring these underrated options can provide shooters with a new perspective on what truly makes a gun a gem.