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SHOT Show 2014: Shooting the 7.5-inch DoubleStar SBR

This lightweight, well-balanced firearm is a viable patrol rifle that earns its space in a crowded cockpit

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P1 Columnist Lindsey Bertomen with the 7.5-inch DoubleStar SBR.

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I always like to get to the DoubleStar lane on the range, just to crank out some rounds on well-made AR-15 platforms. DoubleStar firearms are American-made products that started out when J&T Distributing began manufacturing firearms, rather than just distributing firearms parts.

When they first started out, I tested one of their AR-15s. It was spot on and very high quality.

The DoubleStar line has expanded, and I was excited to run a few rounds down their 7.5-inch SBR (Short Barrel Rifle). This one had lighter furniture than the model that appears on the website — the model was scarcely over five pounds. It has a standard-sized receiver, lightweight forend and a full flat top.

This rifle is standard direct gas with a low-profile gas block. It has the right balance for single point and allows for great flexibility when wearing rifle plates.

My test gun was equipped with MagPul flip-up sights. These sights are lightweight, and I look forward to having my new MagPul sights shipped from Wyoming or Texas.

I thought the 7.5” barrel and light weight would make it hard to control. Not only was I wrong, but this was a solid open-sight shooter at 50-100 yards. It has no problems stabilizing duty cartridges. I would be reluctant to run with the heavier bullet weights, but most agencies will have a single cartridge and stick with it.

I thought that this kind of setup would be limited to special duties like protective details.

Wrong again. This is a viable patrol rifle with some potential in a cockpit crowded with laptops, radars, and video equipment.

Lindsey Bertomen is a retired police officer and retired military small arms trainer. He teaches criminal justice at Hartnell College in Salinas, California. He has a BS in Criminal Justice and an MS in Online Teaching and Learning. Lindsey has taught shooting techniques for over a decade. His articles on firearms tactics have appeared in print for over a decade. Lindsey enjoys competing in shooting sports, running, and cycling events.