Today, Smith & Wesson is quietly releasing news about a pair of M&P 15-series pistols. They’re similar, but one’s a .22 caliber (15/22) while the other is a 5.56/223 model.

According to S&W, the guns are already entering distribution channels. And as is the case with virtually every product right now, if you’re interested, now’s not the time to hesitate- I’d let my dealer know I was looking to purchase one-or both ASAP.

One, the S&W M&P 15/22 model pistol, is an 8-inch barrel, 25-round magazine, optics-ready (meaning: no sights) model that will get any recreational shooter’s attention.

The M&P 15-22 pistol (top) has M-LOK slots, and an SB Tactical SBA3 Adjustable Arm Brace with Closure Strap. The barrel’s threaded with a flash suppressor that could easily be swapped for a sound suppressor. The big brother M&P 15 pistol (below) includes four palm swell grip inserts, has a flat face trigger and Hodge Rail Free Float hand guard, also with M-LOK slots. Being a pistol, 5 and 10-round magazines are available, although it ships with one 30-round PMAG. S&W Images

The ability to remove the flash suppressor (15/22) or Blast Diverter (M&P 15) means either is easily adapted for sound suppressors. It’s interesting to note that like the M&P pistol line, the M&P-15 pistol has adopted the interchangeable Palmswell grip inserts, making it possible for your AR-style pistol to have the same grip “feel” as your M&P pistol.

Both units feature single-point sling attachment points in their arm braces. The 5.56/223 model has both a forward-assist button and dust cover. The 15/22 does not.

Not too-long ago, AR-pistols weren’t taken very seriously. That, however, has certainly changed.

As we’ve all figured out, today’s technical equipment -if you’re looking for reliability- isn’t inexpensive. But we’ve come across a couple of deals you might find attractive-and there’s still time to get them in time for Christmas gift giving.

Wellbots reached out to us earlier this week with a pair of offers exclusively for our readers. There are deals aplenty online, so we did a little investigating. They’re one of the online retailers that enjoys very positive reviews, along with a 4.8/5 TrustPilot Rating and Google “Trusted Store” status. You’re also guaranteed the best “normal” pricing, plus an additional $150 off.

Their entire catalog of Garmin Fenix 6 performance sport watches are $150 off with the coupon OUTDOOR150 at checkout. Prices vary, but the $150 savings is across their entire Fenix 6 line.

And if you’re concerned about power, the Ecoflo DELTA 1300 Power Station has the same $150 savings -and coupon (OUTDOOR150) at checkout. The DELTA 1300 is normally $1399, but it’s already on sale -our coupon brings the price down to $1049, an all-time low.

If you’re looking for a multi-sport GPS watch, the Garmin Fenix 6 line (above) might interest you. If you’re looking to stay connected when there’s no power, the Ecoflo DELTA 1300 (below) is an option. Especially since we’ve scored $150 off - on either - for you.

If you’re in New York State, you’ll have to pay sales tax. If you’re outside New York, you won’t. And there’s free two-day shipping on any order over $100. But there’s a catch…you need to order by Friday, December 18.

They’re short term deals, but the savings are exclusive to our readers. And just so you know, we’re not getting any sort of commission, incentive, or other payment on this. We’ve never played that game..and we’re not starting now.

We’ll keep you posted.

—Jim Shepherd