Magnum Research had a surprise tucked away in a quite corner of its booth at SHOT Show this year. It was the new lightweight version of the Desert Eagle, the L5. Chambered for .357 Magnum, .44 Mag. and .50 AE, this pistol's barrel is shortened from 6" to 5" with weight-reducing cut outs and an integral muzzle brake. The pistol is fitted with fixed iron sights and an integral optics rail. Although the full specifications and pricing for this "compact" Desert Eagle are still forthcoming, the balance and heft of the floor model were much closer to what most shooters would expect from a large pistol for carry in the field. The company is also introducing its first all-stainless steel Desert Eagle. For more, visit MagnumResearch.com.
For interesting facts on the Desert Eagle, go to 10 Things You Didn't Know About the Desert Eagle.