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About Armscor

Armscor Global Defense, Inc., formerly known as Arms Corporation of the Philippines, stands as the oldest and largest firearms manufacturer in the Philippines, with roots tracing back to 1905. Originally founded as Squires Bingham & Co., the company evolved from a Manila print shop into a major player in the global arms industry. Under the stewardship of the Tuason family since 1941, Armscor has expanded its reach to over 60 countries, offering a wide range of firearms and ammunition for civilian, law enforcement, and military use. The company is renowned for its affordable and reliable 1911-style pistols, rimfire rifles, and ammunition, as well as its Rock Island Armory brand. Armscor’s mission centers on providing quality, accessible firearms and ammunition, backed by a commitment to innovation, safety, and customer satisfaction. With ISO 9001 certification and a legacy of over a century, Armscor continues to shape the industry through continuous improvement and global partnerships.

The story of Armscor begins in 1905, when British expatriates William Bingham and Roy Squires established Squires Bingham & Co. in Manila as a print shop. Over the decades, the company diversified into sporting goods and firearms, eventually becoming a central hub for outdoor and shooting enthusiasts in the Philippines. In 1941, Don Celso Tuason acquired the business, steering it through the challenges of World War II and post-war recovery. By 1952, Tuason secured the first firearms manufacturing license in the Philippines, marking the company’s transformation into Squires Bingham Manufacturing Inc. The Tuason family’s leadership, particularly Demetrio 'Bolo' Tuason, drove further expansion and innovation, culminating in the 1980 reorganization as Arms Corporation of the Philippines—Armscor. The 1985 acquisition of Rock Island Armory and the establishment of U.S. operations in Nevada marked Armscor’s entry into the global market. Despite economic and political challenges, Armscor thrived by focusing on quality, affordability, and customer service. Today, under the third generation of Tuason leadership, Armscor is recognized worldwide for its reliable firearms and ammunition, serving millions of customers and maintaining a strong commitment to innovation and excellence.

Armscor Innovations That Changed the Industry

Armscor has pioneered several key innovations in the firearms industry, including the mass production of affordable 1911-style pistols and the development of proprietary ammunition calibers such as the .22 TCM. The company was among the first in Asia to achieve ISO 9001 certification for quality management in firearms manufacturing. Armscor’s integration of vertical manufacturing—producing both firearms and ammunition—has enabled consistent quality control and cost efficiency. The acquisition and revitalization of the Rock Island Armory brand allowed Armscor to introduce enhanced 1911 models and expand its product line for the U.S. market. Their focus on accessible, reliable firearms and continuous improvement in manufacturing processes has set industry benchmarks for value and dependability.

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Quick Facts

Founded1905
CountryPhilippines
CompanyArmscor
Company Sizelarge
Employees1000
Specializes InHandguns, Shotguns, Rifles
Price Rangebudget/mid-range
Models Produced100
Marketscivilian, military, law enforcement

Sources

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Brand Insights

Reputation & Stereotypes

Armscor is widely regarded as a producer of affordable, reliable firearms, especially 1911 pistols and rimfire rifles. The brand is often associated with value for money, making it popular among budget-conscious shooters and beginners. Some users stereotype Armscor products as 'entry-level' but acknowledge their surprising durability and customer support.

Vs Competition

Compared to competitors like Taurus, Ruger, and Smith & Wesson, Armscor stands out for its combination of affordability, reliability, and extensive warranty support. While Taurus and Ruger offer similar budget-friendly options, Armscor’s 1911 pistols are often considered the best value in their class. Unlike premium brands, Armscor focuses on accessible pricing and broad export reach, making it a top choice for new shooters and international markets.

Warranty & Service

Armscor offers a limited lifetime warranty on most firearms, with a reputation for responsive customer service and straightforward warranty claims. Customers frequently praise the company’s support team for quick turnaround times and helpful assistance, especially in the U.S. through Rock Island Armory.

Manufacturing & Quality

Armscor maintains consistent build quality through ISO 9001-certified processes, with a focus on reliability and durability. While not considered luxury-grade, their firearms are known for robust construction, dependable function, and good quality control, especially given their price point.

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