In early October 1918, men from the 77th Division, a draftee division mostly from New York City, advanced into the Argonne Forest as part of a massive American attack. Although the men were from three different battalions and two machine gun companies, the fewer than 600 men, cut off and surrounded, were soon known as the “Lost Battalion.” In an epic fight, trapped behind enemy lines, the Doughboys used the .30-’06 Sprg. U.S. 1917 Enfield rifle, the .45 ACP U.S. M1911 pistol, the 1915 Chauchat light machine gun and 1914 Mitrailleuse, heavy machine gun, both in 8 mm Lebel to fight off the Germans. Instead of surrendering, they said, “Come and get us.” Seven Medals of Honor were awarded for this action, as well as 30 Distinguished Service Crosses.
Also this week, we test the latest duty gun from Beretta, the striker-fired APX in 9 mm Luger. 
For “I Have This Old Gun” we take a look back at the iconic Colt Detective Special.
Watch a preview of tonight's episode here, and be sure to tune in on Wednesdays to the Outdoor Channel for the full episode.
Tonight on American Rifleman TV: Americans in World War I—Part 4; Beretta APX
More like this from around the NRA
Latest
Gun of the Week: Mossberg 590R Chisel
For those who are seeking a shotgun that's a bit more heavy-duty, Mossberg's 590 line offers plenty of options, and one of the latest is the striking 590R Chisel.
The Armed Citizen® June 12, 2026
Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.
A Cathartic Journey Back to Midway Arms & the MidwayUSA Foundation
NRA CEO & EVP Doug Hamlin returned to MidwayUSA, a place he first visited decades ago in the early 1990s as publisher of Guns & Ammo magazine alongside the late, great Robert E. Petersen.
Review: Steiner MPS-C
The new Steiner MPS-C is the compact but rugged, closed-emitter optic we’ve all been waiting for.
The Truth About Bans on Glocks
Gun-control groups are again trying to ban one of the best-selling and most iconic semi-automatic pistols ever—yes, most Glocks.
WOOX Expands Operations in America’s Woodworking Heartland
WOOX, manufacturer of Italian-American made gunstocks, axes and knives, is breaking ground to expand its operations in Hickory, N.C.—where woodworking expertise has been passed on for generations.
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
