Small Arms Pistols and Rifles. (Book Reviews).

Small Arms Pistols and Rifles (New Edition), both by Ian V Hogg, Greenhill Books, London and Stackpole Books, Pennsylvania, 2001, ISBN 1 85367 447 8, hardcover, landscape format 21x15cm, 160 pp, over 200 b/w illus, 14.95 [pounds sterling] plus p&p or see your local book retailer

The timely reappearance of this popular title in the Greenhill Military Manual series presents the reader with a judicious selection of older weapons that refuse to die off (such as the Walther P38, the Colt 1911A1, the SKS and the .30 Carbine) and the newer whose longevity is debatable (for example, the Steyr M pistols and the Beretta Model 93R pistol).

Altogether, over 160 models and variants are discussed to make this a valuable guide for curator, gun buff, or the end user in the services or police who would know more. Additions to my 1994 edition include the 5.7mm FN Five-seven N pistol, a delayed blow back action weapon that incorporates barrel torque in the locking and unlocking process. Also new in the line-up are the H&K USP, the special OPS Mark 23 Model O, as used by SOCOM, and the German G36 rifle.

The many clear photos, and Ray Hutchins' excellent black and white line drawings complement the text. The updated introduction and glossary are also helpful background reading. This is an excellent guide for expert or beginner, made available in a user-friendly format.