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
Semi-Automatic Bans Are Unconstitutional
If the logical application of the rule of law means anything in this constitutional republic, bans on massively popular semi-automatic firearms will be found unconstitutional.
New Handloading Helpers: The Latest Reloading Gear From RCBS
When Hodgdon Powder Company took over RCBS in 2024, company leaders said positive change was coming. By looking at the new products RCBS introduced in 2026, it’s clear they were right.
North-South Skirmish Association to Hold 153rd National Competition in May
At the North-South Skirmish Association's 153rd National Competition, members will compete in live-fire matches with original and reproduction muskets, carbines, revolvers, mortars and cannons.
Review: Heckler & Koch G36 .22 LR
What was once a service rifle for a brave new world all those wasted years ago is now running free as a rimfire option for armed citizens.
Steyr's At Series Handguns: All-Metal & Modular
Designed as a collaboration between Steyr Arms and Arex Defense, the At series of handguns are built on metal frames and have several user-customizable features not seen in other offerings.
The Armed Citizen® March 16, 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.
Interests
250 Years of the U.S. Army: Bolt-Actions & Semi-Automatics on the Battlefield | An Official Journal Of The NRA
- WATCH: The Enduring Precision of NRA’s Long-Range Nationals | An NRA Shooting Sports Journal
- 250 Years of the U.S. Army: Bolt-Actions & Semi-Automatics on the Battlefield | An Official Journal Of The NRA
- 250 Years of the U.S. Army: Rifle Muskets, Trapdoors & Early Bolt-Actions | An Official Journal Of The NRA
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
