I got this book due to recommendations from many excellent websites and other authors whom I know to stand for Freedom and Liberty as established by our Founding Fathers and the many excellent riflemen who fought the Revolutionary War and all the men who have fought in subsequent wars to preserve our Constitution. What I got was a super bargain for the price. It is enlarged from the original by some 200 pages and reads so fast and easy that it is phenomenal. He gives the reader a good Index of terms/acronyms that you will use. It is located in the front of the book and is easy to refer back to when necessary. Aside from that, this guy gives you history, heritage, explanations on WHY we need to protect ourselves, especially from over zealous liberals who want to remove our 2nd Amendment Rights and who keep bogging us down with "Regulations" in effort to try and take our guns away. You get reviews of rifles, handguns, shotguns in as much depth as you could wish for from a man who knows what he is talking about. He brings in views from "experts" in many areas and topics to back up what he is trying to explain to you.

You cannot go wrong with BTP. He's right for every FREEDOM LOVING person in the U.S. If you are a Liberal and are against anyone except the police and military having guns, then you are going to find yourself very much abused in this book for being already enslaved and under control of other people who think they know what is best for you, regardless of what you think about it.

I must emphasize one very outstanding focus BTP makes in this book. He has a fully detailed section for Women and how they need to protect themselves. He helps with gun selections and other protective means.

Lastly, he gives you resource referral information on where to go to get what, things to watch (videos, movies), books to read, and important names/addresses/contact info, website addresses, etc.,on other resources including within the government. This is a super resource and learning book that is very timely in this day and time when it looks like we may be faced with some kind of issues in self protection/survival from terrorists, bad governmental agents, or people who want to bring you and your family harm. It will lift your "Freedom Loving" spirits in showing you how YOU can survive and how you MUST protect yourself and your family. I find myself picking it up and rereading here and there all the time. It is almost a daily thing to review something or some section in my Gun Bible and get Boston's views on it again. I found this as one of the best ever books I've ever owned and it is definitely very inspirational to this old Constitutionalist who feels that his freedoms are slipping out from under him very fast in this day and time.

This book gives the best information about the technical specifications and advantages of different guns than any other I have ever seen. It also gives a lot of information regarding the law, your rights, and which states are gun-friendly. There are also substantial portions of the author's philosophy written about in the book. Kenneth Royce is truly an expert on the subject of guns, and this book has changed my way of thinking forever. The most valuable part of the book, I believe, is the section dealing with the advantages and disadvantages of various guns. He thoroughly exhausted that subject. I recommend this book for everyone, not just gun owners. If you are a gun owner, I guarantee that this book will have some information you can use. If you're planning on becoming a gun owner, this book will help you decide which gun to buy first. If you're not sure, I believe this book will convince you you need a gun. If you are anti-gun, this book may very well change your mind-- if not with its philosophy, then with its statistics.

In the title of my review, I mentioned that there is some impractical advice in the book. Mr. Royce strongly encourages everyone to devote a major portion of their life and money to purchasing and training with guns. While it's fine to talk about different training ranches and expensive guns, Royce goes so far as to imply that if you don't do this, you're a fool. In reference to people who say that they can't afford a multi-thousand dollar sniper rifle, he responds, "how much protection can you afford not to have? Save money in other areas so you have enough to purchase guns." He says basically the same thing about expensive gun training courses offered by Thunder Ranch and others. It's the arrogance of his statements which really bother me. I don't know how Royce makes a living (I doubt that much of his income comes from books), but normal people have families to feed, and simply cannot afford to buy a $6,000 Barrett because the USA is an expensive country and people with normal jobs don't make that much money. He also says that there are two kinds of people in an army: riflemen and cooks, and refers to those firearms owners who aren't expert riflemen as "cooks" (his criteria for graduating from "cook" status is in the book). Not everyone can be Carlos Hathcock. His attitude throughout the book brings the term "gun snob" to mind, and really put me off after I thought about it for a while. From reading this book, I'm sure Mr. Royce thinks very highly of himself.

Although his superior attitude offends me, most of his statistics about crime are hard to argue with, most of his philosophy makes sense, and I certainly can't knock the technical information contained in Boston's Gun Bible. Again, this is a must read. Buy this book NOW.

This is one book I would honestly recommend for everyone. If you are a gun owner and have not read this book you must at once. If you plan on buying a gun at any point you need this book. Without a doubt the best single book on the subject of firearm ownership.

Boston T. Party is a pen-name for Kenneth W. Royce, a libertarian author of several non-fiction books. In his firearms reference manual, Boston's Gun Bible, the author pours out his knowledge of guns, but apparently does not bother to employ either a ghost writer or editor.

A basic knowledge of firearms is assumed by the author however, the first chapter does cover terminology. Later chapters include Women and Guns, Rating the Battle Rifles, Rating the Battle Carbines, How to Buy, Sell & Trade and You & the BATF. Also included are chapters or sections covering individual rifles and pistols. Based on the information provided, I would give the book five stars.

There is a detailed table of contents, but no index. The pages are number in the military style, chapter/page, so if you are on the tenth page of chapter four it would read 4/10. One reviewer mentioned the book had 848 pages. I have not counted.

The writing style varies unevenly from technical to conversational, sprinkled with wit and occasional sarcasm. Fonts, font size, italics and bolding seem to change at the whim of the author. This does detract from a five star rating. However if you want basic information and opinion based upon experience about modern firearms and accessories as well as rankings and comparisons between different makes and models, this is a good buy.

Recommendation: If you have one or two guns and are interested in expanding both your knowledge and your collection I recommend Boston's Gun Bible as an easy to read reference manual.

Kyle Pratt

This book is jam-packed with useful information for gun enthusiasts of all levels. Boston touches briefly on many subjects, giving helpful (and often humorous) tips about various equipment, practices and philosophy. He has taken a life time worth of experience and condensed it down into a fun and easy read.

This book is a "must have" for any freedom loving individual with an interest in firearms. It is primary a rifleman's book, because the rifle is what will keep our freedom, not a handgun.

Complete technical information on all models along with a complete buyers guide on rifles with all the pros and cons. Legal advice and constitutional interpretations as well.

Excellent book!

Need a quick referance for a legal question? How about advice on what firearm to purchase next. What kind of reticle should you choose for a scope? Why have governments sought to disarm people? This book is an outstanding referance. It makes no claim to be the final say on any of these subjects, but instead, is a primer of sorts on all things firearm related.
Frankly, I'm amazed I have gone this long in life without the valuable resource.

This review has been a long time coming. I should've written this when I first got the book brand new from Paladin years and years ago but alas, I hesitated until now. When I first got the book, I read it front to back. I had decided to get it after reading "Boston on surviving Y2k & other lovely disasters". I was hooked from that moment on. The sheer amount of information contained in "Boston's Gun Bible", coupled with the massive amount of insight from someone who obviously pracitces what he preaches is a true help in times when most authors "fly by night" with little information and lots of "it's been reported". From the sections from what catridges are the best choice for "X" game/2-legged critter, to the CCW laws of various states the guide covers literally everything. If I had any complaints to make, it would be: 1.) I'd like to see a post-ban (I love the fact that I can say that cosmetic law sunseted...) version of the book, 2.) A little bit more of reloading information, 3.) Tactics (Reloading, calling for fire/communication. 3.) An expanded version of ergonomics for us south-paws. I would highly reccomend that anyone interested in the past, present and future of our beloved "hobby" pick this book up. Support a fellow Patriot and someone who cares about your rights, even if he does/doesn't agree with your beliefs.

No matter what you know or don't know about guns you will come away more enlightened than before you began. This book will help you decide on what armorments you should be looking at, it might even be a good book to give to educate a gun fearing liberal friend.



A minor complaint is the preponderance of acronyms that don't appear in the acronym index in the front of the book. Not much of a beef of a 900 page tome. It still gets 5 stars!

I have bought three of Boston's books within the past three years and consider them among the most important I own. I have read each through at least twice and refer back to them often. My wife chides me: "Do you read the "real" Bible this often?" I only wish I had encountered Boston earlier, since the education I've gained would have helped me make better choices.
BGB has much to offer anyone with interest in guns. Particularly, his books concern the use of guns the way the 2nd Amendment was intended. That said, there's more to do here with defense than hunting. Gun and equipment reviews, political and historical essays, how-to information regarding buying and selling, all with the object of helping restore our country into a nation of riflemen. It's also an excellent resource for other books and gun related sources.
If you buy one book about guns, this is it.

While a good pro-2nd Amendment read I don't know if I would recommend it. Boston tries to communicate and navigate one from point A to point B but often takes you to Z to make the point. This comes off as being over the top with paranoia.

In fairness, while at some points one may think that some of Boston's ideas are extreme take in consideration your immediate environment may be very different than someone else's. For instance, you may not live in an area or have the need to carry a gun around the house with you but others do. And they have the right to do such!

Boston is full of opinion but he usually backs up his comments. All the same, opinions are just that, opinions ... and everyone has one.

Wow... what a highly informative book on firearms available today!! It addresses current uses of each item addressed and future applications if the political realm changes for the worse. I know it should be veiwed as a "usesrs manual" accompanying the Second amendment of the Bill Of Rights. No knowledgeable and responsible gun owner should be with out one. I am prepareing to purchase a copy for each of my children. Thank you

Boston's Gun Bible may be the definitive reference work for those who understand the true meaning behind the Second Amendment, which is to guarantee, as a last resort, the ability of citizens to defend their lives and liberty through asymmetrical warfare against a tyrannical government. Those who want to take the necessary steps to prepare for the worst would be well-advised to purchase this book and consider its advice. Those who DON'T see any reason why it's necessary to be armed and ready to defend their rights should ALSO buy this book, as it will describe the dangers facing you and perhaps wake you from your slumber.

With a refreshing sense of humor and a tone that ranges from easygoing to earnest, Boston provides a solid overview of just about every gun-related subject imaginable while going into extensive detail on certain topics (especially the advantages and disadvantages of various rifles). A historical overview of military weapons is provided, along with a detailed analysis of the major battle rifles and carbines currently available in the United States. Rifles such as the M14/M1A, FAL, HK91, AR-15, and AK-74 are given ratings (with justification) in numerous categories and subcategories. While this ratings system is necessarily somewhat subjective, Boston does a fine job of translating his experience and that of many others into a formal analysis that is perhaps as close to objectivity as one can expect.

One recurring theme is the superiority of the general-purpose, semi-auto .308 battle rifle over assault rifles (which Boston calls "battle carbines") firing 5.56 NATO, 5.45x39, and especially 7.62x39. I generally agree with Boston on this, although his observation that the .308 is better at penetrating cover must be qualified in the case of some kinds of body armor: readily-available steel-core 5.56 NATO is classified as a higher armor penetration threat than the lead-core 7.62 NATO (roughly equivalent to .308 Winchester) commonly available on the civilian market. I understand that there is also some debate among shooters and ballistics experts as to whether FMJ 5.56 bullets actually cause MORE damage than FMJ .308 at close ranges. (For hunting deer, of course, the .308 is better, but then you probably wouldn't be using a FMJ bullet for hunting.) Nevertheless, I agree that the .308 is the better overall round, as it does penetrate most battlefield cover better and can be used to fight beyond the range of assault rifles. When you're outnumbered, the last thing you want is to be up close!

You'll also find plenty of material on subjects such as bolt-action rifles, the .50 BMG, how to properly set up a scope (and which optics are the best), night vision devices...really, just about everything you can think of is here. Perhaps most important of all, however, is the "Don't Tread On Me" attitude Boston attempts to inculcate in the reader. We Americans have gotten so accustomed to having our rights trampled upon that one can hardly imagine an armed resistance taking place for ANY reason short of having all of our firstborn children slaughtered by jackbooted police-state agents. Boston reminds us that we have no rights apart from those we're willing to fight for -- to paraphrase him, they'll let us quote the Bill of Rights all the way to the camps. Hopefully we'll never need the information this book provides, but the time to prepare is NOW. For those who aren't sure where to begin, this book is probably the best place to start.

This work is not just a gun reference guide, it is, by far, the most complete volume of information on the subject of the 2nd Amendment and how to be prepared and the proper tools to have at your disposal.

You will NOT be disappointed with the book and, in fact, will probably carry it with you and flag the pages as I have done.

Well done, Mr. Party. Well done.

One of my top ten favorite books period. I wore it out and had to buy another copy.

It gives a wealth of information on firearms, mags, parts, accessories, optics, camping gear, firearms training and the state of our country in general in regards to the freedom enjoyed by its citizens. If you've ever looked at a Shotgun News or at a gun magazine and wondered how well some of that stuff actually worked, here's your chance to find out by someone that actually has a sense of humor and knows how to write.

If you don't like guns, are a liberal or if you don't believe in self defense, then you should really buy this book as it might actually change your mind with its reasonable and well stated arguments.

Well worth it even if its cost was double.

This is an excellent book that covers firearms that are biased towards self defense shooting. If you are looking for a book on hunting firearms, this is not it. It is, however, a well written and reasoned book not only about firearms, but the 2nd amendment, self defense, and liberty.

I bought this book thinking it would merely be a handy reference on firearms, so I was utterly floored by its unexpected intensity and passion. Rather than just giving you the "how", it serves up a healthy dose of the "why" as well. This deeply American book should be required reading for everyone. The writing is lucid and honest, at times funny, and the lessons are indisputable. The citizen disarmament advocates use hype and emotion to further their cause. BTP's Gun Bible meticulously dismantles their rhetoric with facts and reason. I challenge "gun control" advocates to read this book and walk away with your convictions intact.

When I first ordered this book, I honestly didn't know what to expect from it. I was expecting a rather boring collection of firearms data from every gun ever manufactured, a tedious and technical manual that would end up as a dust collector on my shelf. After reading the book, I'm glad that I didn't base my decision on my ill-concieved notions of what the book would be! A fantastic collection of information on government tyranny, technical-but-easily-understood shooting information and skills, the need for certain types of weapons along with easy to read reviews of numerous weapons that fit each category, advice on how to train, the importance of proper, perfect training, a "to buy" list of firearms, predictions for the next round of government action against our RKBA, the connection between women and firearms (and crime prevention), the book just has it all! A wonderful mix of pro-gun, pro-Constitution, Libertarian thoughts combined with a great deal of useful information about the guns that will really matter in the future.

Boston describes the main variants of battle rifles, their weaknesses, their strengths, the aftermarket accessories that are worth it and the accessories that aren't worth it. He really pushes his idea of "Ammo turns money into skill" and drives that idea home. The basic concept, turning every gun owner, Patriot or libertarian into a highly effective Rifleman, is looked at from every angle. His desire to pump out quality knowledge is visible through his frequent book updates to reflect new "laws" and new parts.

I've read books by libertarians and I've read books by gun-guys, it's very refreshing to read a book by someone who realizes that a libertarian "utopia" won't arise simply by reading the Fountainhead twice a year. Firearms truely are "libertys teeth", but for those teeth to work effectivly, you've got to know what you are dealing with, what works and what doesn't.

I recommend this book to anyone concerned with the current state of affairs in America. I've given the book to friends who's only interest in firearms was shooting their .30-.30 at a deer a few times a year, and it's convinced them to get a MBR, a few cases of ammo and head out west for some real training. If you want to understand how a group of gun-loving patriots can turn America around, purchse this book and Molon Labe, get a good MBR, go learn to shoot and stand ready.

When I first ordered this book, I honestly didn't know what to expect from it. I was expecting a rather boring collection of firearms data from every gun ever manufactured, a tedious and technical manual that would end up as a dust collector on my shelf. After reading the book, I'm glad that I didn't base my decision on my ill-concieved notions of what the book would be! A fantastic collection of information on government tyranny, technical-but-easily-understood shooting information and skills, the need for certain types of weapons along with easy to read reviews of numerous weapons that fit each category, advice on how to train, the importance of proper, perfect training, a "to buy" list of firearms, predictions for the next round of government action against our RKBA, the connection between women and firearms (and crime prevention), the book just has it all! A wonderful mix of pro-gun, pro-Constitution, Libertarian thoughts combined with a great deal of useful information about the guns that will really matter in the future.

Boston describes the main variants of battle rifles, their weaknesses, their strengths, the aftermarket accessories that are worth it and the accessories that aren't worth it. He really pushes his idea of "Ammo turns money into skill" and drives that idea home. The basic concept, turning every gun owner, Patriot or libertarian into a highly effective Rifleman, is looked at from every angle. His desire to pump out quality knowledge is visible through his frequent book updates to reflect new "laws" and new parts.

I've read books by libertarians and I've read books by gun-guys, it's very refreshing to read a book by someone who realizes that a libertarian "utopia" won't arise simply by reading the Fountainhead twice a year. Firearms truely are "libertys teeth", but for those teeth to work effectivly, you've got to know what you are dealing with, what works and what doesn't.

I recommend this book to anyone concerned with the current state of affairs in America. I've given the book to friends who's only interest in firearms was shooting their .30-.30 at a deer a few times a year, and it's convinced them to get a MBR, a few cases of ammo and head out west for some real training. If you want to understand how a group of gun-loving patriots can turn America around, purchse this book and Molon Labe, get a good MBR, go learn to shoot and stand ready.

I accidentily discovered this writer when I won an auction lot of books. I was overwhelmed by his frank hard-hitting style of writing and no holds barred truth. This book is by far the best I've ever seen on guns. From the technical knowledge, little known facts/tricks, tactical information it's like a complete course in one book. Just one tip like how to use the width of your front sight as a range finder is worth the price of the book (-ie- the 8 moa width of a M14 front sight lines up perfectly with the army targets at a certain range). I received an expert marksman award in the military and believe me I never received any training about this. There is so much information presented that each chapter in itself could I think be expanded into its own book. Especially the chapters on battle rifles and becoming a rifleman. Other valuable information such as home defense, what to do in event of a self defense shooting, etc. Invaluable stuff that someday could save you or your families lives or at least keep you out of prison. I hope he continues to keep writing and expanding on this material cause I'll be buying them all.

This is one of the magnificent books I have ever read on the 2nd Amendment and the failure of America's recognition of it's purpose. This book brought the loss of freedom into the proper light, and demonstrates how very selfish we are to want a little security over liberty. Shame on us for pushing the problems of today, the problems of yesterday, onto tomorrow, where our children and grandchildren will have to deal with our dependencies. Quit ye like men, and fight.

"It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace-- but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!"
~ Patrick Henry - March 23, 1775

"If you love wealth greater than liberty, the tranquility of servitude greater than the animating contest of freedom, go home from us in peace. We seek not your counsel, nor your arms. Crouch down and lick the hand that feeds you. May your chains set lightly upon you; and may posterity forget that you were our countrymen."
~ Samuel Adams, American Revolutionary

"We have counted the cost of this contest, and find nothing so dreadful as voluntary slavery. -Honor, justice, and humanity, forbid us tamely to surrender that freedom which we received from our gallant ancestors, and which our innocent posterity have a right to receive from us. We cannot endure the infamy and guilt of resigning succeeding generations to that wretchedness which inevitably awaits them, if we basely entail hereditary bondage upon them."
~ John Dickenson and Thomas Jefferson, Continental Congress, July 6, 1775, Declaration of Causes and Necessity for Taking Up Arms

If these quotes mean nothing to you, don't read this book!

Molon Labe!

This is the most insightful and comprehensive book for self reliant gun owners ever compiled. If you don't think the Government will always be there to protect you this book will truly be your bible!!! GOCOM in CA

Yes, I disagree with Boston on a couple minor technical points (and was proud to see my "contribution" on Aimpoint optics in the latest edition), but being active-duty Army, this is the only civilian weapons book I make room in the bags for when deploying overseas. When our battalion was issued M14 rifles from storage, the class I gave on iron-sight zero procedures came right out of BGB. I'm on my third copy as it keeps growing legs, and bought copies for some of my soldiers as welcome-home gifts.

BTW, the M855/SS109 is better and punching holes in things, but you're correct in that its inferior on soft tissue. When possible here, I followed SOCOM's lead ans scrounged some Black Hills match grade 5.56 loaded with the 77 grain Sierra. Works great if you don't have an M14 handy.

BGB is a well written and very well done successor to the classic survivalist firearms book, Survival Guns by the late Mel Tappan.

This may, indeed, seem trite, but if you only buy one book about "guns," this is the one that you should buy. Many, no doubt, say that "Boston" is very pro-rights, and this is true. However, if you were trying to learn about Fords, would you buy a book written about them by a dedicated Chevy man? Boston brings to the keyboard a fascinating mix of information, stories, first hand experience, quotes, and references that are almost staggering in their volume. This is, however, the main reason that you should buy this tome. It will stand on your bookshelf as a reference manual for quite a period of time to come. You will constantly refer to it for the little questions that keep cropping up constantly over the years. It is undoubtably the only book on the subject that you will ever need.

This book...rather a benchmark manual, is extensive to say the least. I can not imagine how boston even compiled this mountain of details, real world performance and "consumer reports" on what seems like every known rifle man has devised, but some how he did! This is truely a complete reference guide to long arms. but don't forget shotguns & pistols too. Truely what works and what does not. Every prudent responsible firearm owner needs this manual, tactics,Law,maintanance,citizen disarmament,history,jeez he put eveything in here.
way to go , Boston.

I started my Police career in the late 1970's even then I was become aware of the patriot mindset and the loss of freedoms that today we ask our selfs what happened? Boston puts in many words and concepts what I see in the Gun culture that needed saying, even if you don't shoot weapons, here is a man that articulates many peoples thoughts in such a enjoyable way. READ THIS BOOK NOW. you won't put it down.

I purchased this book soon after reading the author's first work of fiction, Molon Labe, and I couldn't be more happy with the purchase. Given all the gun media out there that competes for your reading dollar, this is about the best $20 i've spent in some time. Gun Magazines all make their livelihoods selling advertising to gun manufacturers and thus, their reviews tend to sugar-coat flaws. Not so with Boston! His evaluations are unbiased and cut like a razor. Had I bought this book before I purchased my $1400 Armalite AR-10A4 that jams at least a round or two per mag regardless of the ammo/mag, I would have saved a good deal of money and bought a FAL or M1A to start with. The book lives up to its title in that it is a compendium of hands-on researched and empirically analyzed information about firearms for all purposes, with an emphasis on home defense and defense of Liberty in general. I have read and reread the book so many times in the last 4 months that I expect I'll need to replace it soon. The poor thing is starting to fall apart; it's that solid of a reference.

Other reviewers have gone in depth to explain the contents of the books so I will not duplicate their work. However, I find it helpful to mention the three sections that have been the most useful to my interests. I was interested in purchasing a full power battle rifle (308) to replace my jamming AR-10 but given the costs involved, Boston's complete evalations of all the major battle rifles (AR-10, FAL, HK91, M1, M1A, AR-15, Steyr AUG, AK-47, AK-74) were invaluable in helping me to select a DSA Para FAL that fills my needs and goes bang every time I pull the trigger. The second area that was very useful for me was the surplus ammunition evaluation. Nowhere else have I found a solid accuracy evaluation of various types of available surplus ammuntion for 308, 223, and 50 BMG surplus projectiles. Given a battle rifle's appetite for ammunition and Boston's maxim "Ammunition turns money into skill", information ranking the accuracy of surplus ammo in various rifles alone justifies the cost of this volume. Lastly, a section of the book has a solid evaluation of the items needed and costs of getting into 50 BMG target rifle shooting. Boston provides a full evaluation of what is required (rangefinders, ammo, reloading, optics) as well as ranking rifle models previously unheard of by me and most "gun-guys". While the book definitely doesn't discourage one from purchasing a 50 BMG rifle, the text is definitely an eye-opener that these behemoths aren't for everyone, especially those without a well-rooted money tree.

Overall, Boston's Gun Bible is a very solid book (and an exceptional value) for both the novice interested in purchasing their first defensive handgun or hunting rifle to the experienced enthusiast looking to thoughtfully fill up their gun safe. Should you buy it outside Amazon, be sure to get the current edition which has been updated since the 1994 "Krime Bill" expired. The version offered here on Amazon.com as a New Book is the updated edition.

A wonderful book that really helped me out greatly in the selection of the firearms I have recently bought. I went with many of Boston's recommendations, and have been more than pleased with my selections. As a bonus, the articles on gun control and other topics related to the right to keep and bear arms were both informative and interesting.

Overall great read, that I suggest to all my friends.

Boston's Gun Bible is by far the best reference book I have read, Gun related or otherwise. This book is a must have for anyone with any interest in guns, be it a weekend shooter or serious collector. Out of all the gun publications I have read, this one is by far the most practical, helpful and easy to understand that I have read. Even the most technical of topics are easily understood. Reviews and comparisons of equipment are based on practical topics and are given without bias. Includes everything that every gun owner should know and understand, from shooting to buying/selling/trading, legal issues, et al. Having read various technical publications across various fields, I have yet to find anything that equals Boston's Gun Bible when it comes to the vast amount of information that is contained in one book. Excellent.

If you take self defense seriously - buy this book. If you take citizenship seriously - buy this book. This is the definitive text on American gun ownership. As you read this book, you'll grow more comfortable with weapons and less comfortable with government-generated anti-self defense dogma. This book will help you select the right tool(s) to defend you & your family & your country! Thank you Boston! Also, I highly recommend Molon Labe!

I applaud this book and Boston's informed insights into the issues of gun laws, patriotism, government, and firearms.

I found his analysis to be complete and fair (his bias for specific products is evident, but at least he admits them.)

I think he is dead on accurate when talking about personal liberty, being responsible for your own protection, and items that almost no one owns yet everyone *should* own.
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Why 4 out of 5 stars? I would have liked to have seen a chapter on "gun privacy." And privacy issues in general when dealing with weapon and ammunition purchases.

This is even more important in this day and age where the Patriot Act has unknown numbers of three-letter agencies just looking for people to buy guns, ammo, special literature, etc.

If Boston is our "Paul Revere" shouting us, "To Arms! To Arms!" then he must also give us some idea of how to make those preparations as inconspicuous as possible.

Especially, expand the section on buying/selling guns 'face-to-face' with more on gun privacy.

Section 26/9 6th paragraph "...get your unpapered handguns/rifles..." obviously shows his preference for buying private sale guns.

But then,

Section 28/4, 5th paragraph, he writes [when "selling" guns privately] "[write down].. buyers name, address, [Driver's License] DL#, and [Date of Birth] DOB."

Um, Boston? How is that not the same as traceable? If I buy a gun from "Tom" and sign his receipt and give my DL#. When the government comes to "Tom" asking for his gun he will whip that receipt out and say "Sold it to xxxx."

Just doesn't sound much different then buying from an FFL.

I know Boston has a book on Privacy and I intend to buy it once he updates it for all the new changes. I just think this book is incomplete without a gun privacy chapter.
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I appreciate the book as a one-of-a-kind reference, and I applaud Boston for taking the time to write it.

I have had BGB for years- both editions, and it is the single best book I have read for information on selecting defensive arms for perilous times. If one American in a hundred read ans understood this book we would have a free nation today. Great information on battle rifles- buy this book FIRST- you will avoid mistakes! There is not enough room in this review for the praise this book deserves. Just buy it- you will not be disapointed.In fact, get all Boston's books- they do repeat some info, but his Y2k book is useful even today-Katrina victims will wish they had read it long ago.
Buy the book.Read it. Buy a rifle and handgun of your choice.Vote, write, and think pro-gun and pro freedom, and maybe we will never need to worry about some of the scenarios Boston tells us about in BGB

Boston's Gun Bible covers multiple topics from rifles to constitutional rights. This books is a must for those who desire to be informed politically as well as those who wish to obtain brief overviews of rifles from historical to current times. An excellent read staight through; or pick it up at any point for great information! I borrowed Boston's Gun Bible from a friend, returned it and bought two new books...an extra to pass along to another friend. This is a book one would want to share with those who like to "know" what's happening!

This is not only my favorite gun book ive read. its one of my favorite books period. not my absolute favorite the bibles my favorite but this book is at least second. through this book i learned that you can legaly carry a consealed gun without a license as long as it was made before 1889. im currently looking for one. this book is a great way to learn how to make pro victim disarmament advocates [gun control nuts] and their arguments look as dumb as they are. how insane is it that are government is inforceing unconstitutional and ILLEGAL laws. the second ammendment says clearly. THE RIGHT TO KEEP [own] AND BEAR [carry] ARMS SHALL NOT BE INFRINGED [can not be leagaly canged no ecceptions no responsable gun control [no gun control is responsable] even an ammendment to the constitution banning guns or a certain gun would infringe and would be ILLEGAL] when the house of repusentitives or senate or the president or juges infringe upon are second ammendment rights in my opinion its HIGH TREASON and the penalty for that is death. im not saying to kill them our selves im saying thay should be given a fair trial and if found guilty hannged or leathel injection. ANY LAW BANNING ANY KIND OF GUN IS UNCONSTITUTIONAL AND ILLEGAL [the constitution is the HIGHEST LAW IN THE LAND] and no one NOT EVEN IF 100% of THE HOUSE OF REPS AND SENATE could pass a law legaly and with out commiting HIGH TREASON that would ban even one type of gun. and if the supreme court upholds a law that infringes upon the second ammendment or any other for that matter [INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO LIFE] its illeagal and i would like to say that the members of the supreme court who held that abortion [murder of the unborn] should be leagal should be charged with high treason and 40 million counts of murder [im not kiding] [more then 40 million babies have been butcherd since roe v. wade thats 3000 to 4000 a day 1.5 million a year]
well anyway sorry i rambled on like that.

I would strongly recommend this book to anyone even vaguely interested in firearms, but also to those who want to realize the truth about where America is heading today. With no-nonsense reviews, facts, and suggestions, I believe this book will not only be a Gun Bible, but also a Liberty Bible. In the coming years it will be a blueprint for gaining freedom from a socialist government. For all the Americans who believe that real patriotism goes beyond just putting an American flag sticker on your car, this and all other books by Boston T. Party are required reading.

This was the first "Boston T. Party" book I bought. I am not flush with money so I don't buy many books these days. In less than a year my copy is tattered, dog eared and has MANY pages marked. It is THE book of battle rifles and the chapters about creeping gun control and what you should do about it are worth the price alone. If you are thinking of buying a battle rifle BUY THIS BOOK FIRST so you don't make a mistake!! If you love freedom and understand how guns are what preserve freedom buy this book for the chapters on that subject. My favorite chapter is "Boston is NUTS!"

You will NOT be disappointed!!!

Ill be honest, not everyone can read this book until the spine breaks (ive had to buy a second copy after a friend of mine gave my dad a copy because of that very reason) but its important to read it for all its information. He mentions legal advise (which is important even for the kindest souls in the wrong place at the wrong time), technical facts, and opinions based off of technical facts in regards to equipment and training. His politics are hard to think about for most of us as he bluntly opposes some things that even i agree with. He covers a lot of bases very quickly, and because of that youll probably wind up buying other books in the fields that you find most vital to you which is good because conflicting opinions and multiple forms of the same concept deepen understanding. His writing is wonderful in my opinion. This is because he uses a casual tone and it feels often like youre speaking to a buddy more than a professional consultant.

Whether you are an experienced shooter or a neophyte to the world of arms, this book has something important to say to you.
A substantial portion of the book is meticulously prepared testing and evaluation of handguns,longguns, and ammunition, EXPLAINED in concise, real world context. Boston has done all your basic homework for you. All that is left for you to do is to decide what features apply to your needs, make some intelligent purchases, and start DOING. There is more relevent "how to" information contained in this book than any book in my library. Want to become a rifleman? Have trouble deciding on the right caliber of pistol for self defense? Don't know how to talk to the gun control crowd in a meaningful, factual manner? Can't decide on the kind of optic to put in front of your aging eyes? Boston has the answers that only an experienced shooter and firearms instructor can offer. I have given this book to several friends and will continue to do so. Most of them have gone on to purchase and enjoy other titles by Boston, particularly "You and the Police"

This is the last book you may ever need to buy. Part gun book,part political,100% American. If you have ever wondered which guns and gear you need and why then get this book. Mr. Royce is the modern day Thomas Paine. Get this book and see why.

I am a woman who is interested in becoming a first time gun owner, and I bought this book because of all the glowing reviews here.

This book is such a mess, and I'm only a few chapters in. I can't even tell you how many pages, because the author has his own system of numbering chapters and section. The book starts off with a glossary of made-up words and explanations of why he doesn't believe in things like US currency. He invents all sorts of new-speak, from USSA ("United Socialist States of Amerika"), to two kinds of "Patriot", which are differentiated according to italic font or quotes.

The horrific writing style is like being accosted by a homeless nutcase who wants to yell at you about the dangers of homosexuals and rock music. (Which have both been addressed early on by "Boston T Party" early in the book.) Things are capitalized, bolded, underlined, italicized, or all four, and there are just way too many exclamation marks all over the place to understand what is supposed to be emphasized and why. Someone should run this book through a grammar check, or at least put it all in one font, one size, and plain text.

There might be a wealth of knowledge to be had in this book, but the ranty stream-of-consciousness writing style, new speak, and tangents make it a difficult to read for this potential gun owner.

Just finished reading Boston's Gun Bible and found it to be as good and well researched as his other books I've read. He really goes into great detail on many different types of firearms and his expertise is apparent. What I particularly liked was his comparisons and opinions on firearm choices based on one's own personal situation. He also offers some good insight into many of the other issues related to the owning and using of firearms. Whether or not you agree with his opinions and views, he has the ability to make you think about the things he writes about. I would recommend this book to anyone with an interest in firearms.

This book is absolutly the finest, most comprehensive book about all aspects of shooting and gun ownership ever written. It has priceless information for people of all skill levels from beginner to expert rifleman. I have read this book from cover to cover 4 times and I still carry it as a reference book. I could never be as consise and well spoken as Boston is, so I end up just handing the book over and saying

Boston's Gun Bible is great, regardless of your comfort level with guns. It is informative for those who have no clue, and deals with the attitude as well as the equipment. It is invaluable for those who have been around guns for years, even decades.

I'll not say I agree with everything in the text, but a large part of it for certain. There are some bits of opinionated difference, as to be expected. He won't just say "Do this because I said so", Boston will say "Do this because of these reasons:", and that's the greatest benefit of this book. A thinking individual can read the book, decide he doesn't like the recommended equipment, but will be able to find something else that will do the job just as well, because Boston will explain why he recommends what he does.

Get the book.

It's about being a Patriot and returning America back to the land of the free.

Off course there is a vast wealth of knowledge in here covering many, many weapons and all the correlating ammunition. Use it to wisely choose a weapon or three. There are defensive tactics, gun safety issues, politics, philosophy, some necessary ranting and a few attitude adjustments to boot. This is a must read for all Americans, not just us members of the gun culture.

The overiding theme of the book for me was preparedness. BUY THIS BOOK, use the information to learn as much as you can about guns and related issues. Take heed, and stand tall.

I have read Boston before and had come back to revisit this book after the new edition.

Boston writes in the most readable style available and the pages fly by. He methodically goes through tests on different guns, ammo, ballistics, optics, and a whole lot more.

If you liked Boston's other books, this one's also going to have a very dog-eared place by your nitestand.

Boston solved the debate between .223 vs .308 as well as 9mm vs .45 by showing you the reasons to choose the most you can handle. I was offended at first read because I've always been partial to .223 but his explanations on being a "rifleman" convinced me to go the .308 route. He has a hell of an argument there.

The final 3rd of the book is the finest reading for any freedom lovers anywhere... I won't spoil it.

melbo

This book is nothing short of awesome! It's great stuff from beginning to end and you'll hardly notice it's somewhere around a thousand pages thick! Boston manages to cover all aspects of the battle rifle, basic defensive pistol use, battle carbines, and more.

Boston's huge amount of experience and field use of these weapons really shows through and the data and rankings of those rifles is spot on. He goes into a lot of things that many of those who are considered "gun nuts" miss and makes fun of one of my favorite kinds of person: the over-accessorizer; the guy who has a fine rifle and then fills it up with extra grips, a too-large scope, an integral bipod, laser pointer, interchangeable buttstock, etc., etc... Yet can't hit a fifty-cent grouping at 50 yards...

Boston also includes a lot of great political commentary and information. He gives (no doubt accurate) predictions of what the lobbyists and gun-grabbers will go for next and how they'll succeed first in the near future. He explains definitively why we need to be armed and TRAINED in those arms to effectively defend our nation, way of life, and especially our liberty.

By far one of the most informed patriots and easily one of our nation's most learned gun nuts, Boston is worth reading.

This is the book to open the door into the world of firearms, and take with you on the whole trip. I have two well worn copies as look up references and enjoyable general reading. While a first read will keep you entertained and get you a general sense of "this bad, that good," the details and support are all there for you as you grow in your understanding -- you just didn't know what you were reading the first time. That process is the most enjoyable kind of book learning there is. Just don't spend so much time reading you forget to go to the range.

Boston takes a lot of guessing out of many question's related to gun's. In today's uncertain time, Boston keeps things in perspective. This is not a buy another "TACTICAL" multi-thousand dollar 1911 and AR 'cause that's what so-in-so "SWAT OPERATORS" use. It is, however, an honest thought provoking book that every serious gun owning American should read and reference to.

P.S.
no disrespect to the 1911 or the AR15, They are fine battle implements.

I have never read a more complete book on guns in my life . This book can and will change your mind on all weapons A wonderfull book that you will use for the rest of your life