Tag Archives: magnum research

Want a compact Israeli handgun? Buy soon.

While reviewing the product catalogs from Magnum Research and IWI-US, I noticed that neither of them are going to be importing the “compact” versions of either the BDE III or the Jericho. Perhaps they don’t feel these guns can compete in the concealed-carry marketplace? Assuming that Magnum Research drops the BDE II line, there will no longer be an option for a compact-size Jericho on the market.

Battle Ready International, however, did mention to me that they were trying to import the BUL M-5 Ultra-X, so there may be some hope in the future. The BUL M-5 Ultra-X will no doubt be expensive, but it is arguably the best choice out there for an “officer”-size double stack 9mm 1911.

Please note, though, that MR and IWI-US will both be releasing “semi-compact” guns that feature a shorter barrel/slide with the same-sized grip. These are perfectly fine guns, but many find them less usable for concealed carry due to the long(er) grip.

Magnum Research announces the Baby Desert Eagle III

bde3

Magnum Research has announced the new Baby Desert Eagle III line of pistols. It took me a few seconds to realize it, but this appears to be the BUL Cherokee with a full length dust cover and a slide safety. It’s not so obvious with the steel version pictured above, but take a look at these two guns:

polymer baby eagle III cherokee

There are clearly some changes to the frame and slide (probably to more closely mimic the old BDE II), but I’m unaware of any other existing Tanfoglio clone that has a similar frame. The steel version is also using a frame that looks suspiciously like that of the old BUL Storm.

UPDATE 4/3/2015: all4shooters confirmed a couple months ago at SHOT that the BDE III is being made by BUL Transmark. Given the changes over the Cherokee, which appear substantial, I think this qualifies as a completely new model of Israeli-manufactured handgun.