As 2025 comes to a close, we’re looking back at the stories that resonated most with our readers over the past year. From new firearm releases and SHOT Show standouts to competitive shooting milestones and expert technical guidance, here are some of the most popular articles featured on SSUSA.org in 2025.
5 Best Rimfire Rifles Less Than $500
Field Editor Art Merrill’s roundup of top-performing rimfire rifles under $500, including bolt action, semi automatic and lever action picks. Models from Savage, Winchester, Smith & Wesson, Ruger and more offer solid accuracy and impressive value for plinking, training and field use. Published May 28, 2025.
SIG Sauer Unveils P211‑GTO Double‑Stack 1911
SIG Sauer’s new P211‑GTO modernizes the double‑stack 1911 with a 3D‑printed compensator, straight‑pull trigger and P320 magazine compatibility. Offered in three variants, it delivers reduced recoil and enhanced ergonomics for shooters seeking a refined, high‑capacity, hammer‑fired 9 mm platform. Published June 26, 2025.
Best Of SHOT Show 2025: Five Products To Watch
SHOT Show 2025 highlighted standout innovations, including Savage’s smooth new Revel lever‑action .22, premium ammunition from Berger, Hornady and Remington, and WOOX’s modular, lightweight rifle stocks. Together, these products showcase fresh engineering and improved performance for competitors and hunters alike. Published January 27, 2025.
Max Michel and Lena Miculek Announce Departures from Team SIG Sauer
Two of competitive shooting’s biggest names—Max Michel and Lena Miculek—left Team SIG Sauer in October after nearly 30 combined years. Their departures mark a major shift for SIG’s pro team, ending long, decorated tenures that shaped products, programs and world‑class competitive shooting success. Published October 6, 2025.
Springfield Armory Crams More Into Less With 1911 DS Prodigy Compact
Springfield Armory’s new 1911 DS Prodigy Compact offers a double‑stack, 15‑round take on the 1911, available in 3.5‑ and 4.25‑inch versions. Optics‑ready with upgraded sights, forged components and lightweight aluminum frames, the pistols are designed for concealed carry and modern defensive use. Published January 16, 2025.
Smith & Wesson Announces New CSX E-Series Micro-Compact Pistol Lineup
Smith & Wesson’s new CSX E‑Series refines the original CSX with upgraded ergonomics, an improved trigger, modular grip adapters and optics‑ready construction. Offered in four 9 mm configurations with multiple magazine capacities, the aluminum‑framed micro‑compacts aim to boost handling and everyday‑carry performance. Published February 11, 2025.
Best Of SHOT Show 2025: Top Pistols
SHOT Show 2025 unveiled standout pistols, including Beretta’s competition ready 92XI SAO Sabbia, Colt’s optics ready 1911 Competition models, Ruger’s RXM collaboration with Magpul, Smith & Wesson’s performance focused M&P9 Metal HD Spec Series (pictured) and Staccato’s new HD double stack lineup—each offering modern features and improved capability. Published March 12, 2025.
Our Guide to Correcting 9 mm Revolver Issues
Field Editor Chris Christian shares tips for new 9 mm revolver owners, who often face accuracy, bullet crimp and moon clip problems due to bore dimensions, recoil effects and clip tolerances. Using .358 bullets, applying firm crimping, adjusting overall length and selecting proper moon clip thickness resolves most issues, allowing 9 mm revolvers to match .38/.357 performance. Published April 24, 2025.
Team USA Claims 10 Gold Medals at 2025 IPSC PCC/Mini Rifle World Shoot
In May at the inaugural IPSC PCC/Mini Rifle World Shoot in Znojmo, Czech Republic, Team USA delivered a commanding performance—earning 10 gold medals across team and individual divisions. With standout wins from Lena Miculek, Justine Williams, Jerry Miculek and rising juniors, the U.S. squad showcased exceptional depth and discipline at the match. Published June 3, 2025.
Smith & Wesson M&P FPC 22LR Folding Carbine
Smith & Wesson’s M&P FPC 22LR is a folding rimfire carbine with integrated onboard magazine storage, a threaded barrel, full-length rail and M‑LOK handguard. Sharing ergonomics and mags with the M&P 22X pistol, it offers a compact, feature-rich option for training, plinking and portable use. Published July 23, 2025.
