They may not sport all the bells and whistles of other “fancy” guns, but after running three Stoeger STR-9 models through the rigorous course demands of Gunsite Academy, GUNS Editor Brent T. Wheat attests: “I can swear and affirm the STR-9 has checked the dependability box and for me, reliability is by far the single most important factor for a CCW gun.” Wheat details his experience with the low-budget but high-performing STR-9 family in Feb. GUNS.

His personal favorite, the STR-9S, is packed with unexpected features for a gun with a reasonable price tag such as a threaded barrel, suppressor-height sights, flared magwell, 21-round capacity, low bore axis, 1911 grip angle and refined ergonomics. He concludes, “If you’re a practical, down-to-earth kinda guy or gal who appreciates the value of a dollar and just wants a good solid handgun, consider joining the STR-9 family.”

In “Second Chance Shotgun,” Jeremy D. Clough details the process of rebuilding his beloved Mossberg 500 Cruiser after admittedly neglecting to clean it regularly. When red rust appeared after testing it with shotshells loaded with black powder substitute, he set to work on cleaning, repairing and improving it for many more years of reliable service.

The Feb. Firearms Package Giveaway is topped by a Rock Island Armory Rock Ultra HC 10mm. It sports a 5" button rifled barrel supported by a full-length guide rod, double-stack magwell and 16-round capacity. The lucky winner will also receive a G125 Concealed Carry Bike Bag from FALCO Holsters and a Manix 2 Lightweight knife from Spyderco. Valued at $1,110.95 readers are encouraged to enter the free drawing by visiting GunsMagazine.com/giveaways.

Feb. GUNS also includes Tom Keer’s “Guide Advice” for hunting with dogs in the Shotguns column, and despite their designation as “junk,” Mike “Duke” Venturino argues Japanese WWII weapons were actually of good quality, but poorly designed in Montana Musings. Wayne van Zwoll ponders “Open Sights: Good For Nothing?” in the Optics installment, and how the once standard aid is now an afterthought. And Massad Ayoob reveals the “truth behind the clichés” when it comes to keeping ammo handy in the Handguns installment.

Discover more content at GunsMagazine.com and download GUNS Magazine Podcasts, including, “The Big Guide To Gun Finishes.” Follow the GUNS team on YouTube: youtube.com/guncranks and youtube.com/fmgpubs. Purchase the February issue of GUNS or order a subscription at fmgpubs.com. Digital versions are also available.