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Primary Arms SLx 1x Prism

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  I was looking around for a prism sight to replace one of my red dots on an AR rifle. I was tired of the flared out dot due to my astigmatism. So when the chance came along to get behind the Primary Arms SLx 1x prism, I was literally a kid in a candy store. The Primary arms SLx worked great as the red dot replacement.

  The SLx 1x prism had all the features I wanted in a true 1 power optic. For one, it was a prism sight. Therefore it has an etched reticle, like most magnified optics. I really like this as a feature, it takes away the burst that red dots have for me, and it gives an actual reticle, even when not illuminated by the battery. I’ll get to the actual reticle later. The SLx’s reticle illumination is red, but green is also an option. Another feature that I wanted was good eye relief. Since it’s not a red dot style optic, eye relief is important. The SLx has a stated 2-6” of eye relief. But it really feels like more. I can get right up on the optic or back off even more than the 6”s and still get a good sight picture, so much so that it feels very much like looking through a red dot optic.

  Primary Arms gave the SLx 1x prism their ACSS Cyclops gen II reticle. The ACSS (Advanced Combined Sighting System) Cyclops is a horseshoe style etched reticle with a chevron, think triangle, in the middle. The round horseshoe part gives extremely fast target acquisition, especially for close up targets. It is also about the size of a 00 buck pattern at 25 yds. The chevron then takes over for precise aiming. You can also use the chevron like you would a red dot, if up close. The top point of the chevron is where you would zero your rifle. This point is also where you get pretty precise aiming by just putting the point on the target. The zero depends on what barrel length and caliber you are using (see picture). With a 16” 5.56 barrel, it would be 100 yds. The inner point of the chevron is now a bullet drop compensator. So with the same 16” barrel, this would be for 300 yds. Then the bottom part of the chevron would be 400 yds. The BDC is just a close estimation, since it also depends on ammunition type and the height at which the SLx is mounted. There is also range estimation built into the SLx. It uses a 5’10” tall or 18” wide object for range estimation. When sighting in, the SLx has 1 MOA clicks for both the windage and elevation adjustments. The clicks are very positive. The adjusting dial is recessed into the SLx’s housing so that the adjustments won’t be hit and knocked out of zero. It also makes for a smoother look. Even though the 1 MOA adjustments worked fine, since the SLx has the precise chevron aiming point, I would have liked to see more accurate adjustments, maybe more like ¼ MOA, or even ½ MOA.  

  Illumination comes from a CR2032 battery that rides inside the brightness knob. The SLx has 13 brightness settings. The highest are “daylight bright”, and the lowest 3 are for night vision. Yes, the “daylight bright” does illuminate the reticle in bright sunlight. It’s not quite as bright as a quality red dot, but you can still see that it is a brighter red. My biggest complaint about the SLx is it’s mushy and hard to turn brightness knob. The click between levels just suck, plus it’s hard to get the dial to turn to them. If it had better “clicks” I wouldn’t complain as much about the stiffness. But, on the other side of that is the awesome “Autolive” function. This is a motion activated auto on function. After a certain time of no motion, the illumination will turn off. Then, when it gets moved, even just a little, the reticle turns back on to the last brightness setting it was on. The Autolive works fantastic, see this as to how well it works: YouTube Video. Because of the Autolive function, battery life is greatly extended. In fact, Primary Arms states the battery life to be 29,000 hours on the medium setting! Remember, if the battery dies, you still get the advantage of having an etched reticle, it’s just no longer illuminated. 

  The SLx gives a very clear window in which to look through. I found this prism sight to be way clearer than I expected from a $250 optic. It has a pretty good Field of View at 76.5 ft @ 100yds. It has a very forgiving eyebox and even has a diopter to focus in the reticle for your eyes. Even when looking through the SLx at odd angles, I was still able to get a good sight picture. 

  The Primary Arms SLx 1x prism comes with a variety of mounting options, all of which are included in the package. The SLx comes with 4 spacers and a picatinny rail mounting base. 3 of these spacers are cantilevered, the other 1 is straight. This lets the SLx mount right above the rail, with no spacers, or up super high off the rail with the straight spacer plus the high cantilever one, and anything in between (see picture). Of course all mounting screws and wrenches are included to swap the heights around. Oddly enough, the SLx can also be mounted to a carry handle of an AR. All these height options let you tune the height, so if you are using a magnifier or back up iron sights, you can get it just how you like it. Yes, the SLx prism will work with those too.

This is not on full brightness, more like around setting 7 of 13, in full sun

  Primary Arms did a fantastic job with the SLx 1x prism. It does almost everything I wanted it to do, okay, it does everything I need it to do. The clarity is great, it’s bright, has auto on/off, good battery life, and even works without the illumination. The 1x appears to be a true 1 power to me. Everything close up and far away is clear and size appropriate. Shooting with both eyes open is just like shooting with a non magnified red dot, plus no starburst. Having the ability to mount the SLx at various heights is also nice. I like this optic so much that I might even mount it on my “go to” rifle. Go check out the SLx 1x prism at Primary Arms.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Etched reticle micro prism sight

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a solid 1x optic 

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • ACSS Cyclops Gen II reticle

  • 13 Illumination settings including Daylight Bright

  • 3 Night Vision Settings:  Low, Med & Flood 

  • AutoLive motion-sensing on/off battery saving technology 

  • 29,000 Hour battery life at medium setting

  • Includes 8 Mounting Height Options (incl. Absolute Co-witness & Lower 1/3 heights)

  • Length: 2.48”  

  • Weight: 7.6 oz with height riser (only 5.5 oz without riser)

  • Etched Reticle

  • Diopter for precision reticle clarity

  • Eye Relief Range:  2” to 6” with 3.6” for optimum Field of View

  • Field of View: 76.5 ft @ 100 yds

  • 120 MOA total Adjustments

  • 1 click = 1 MOA

  • Fully Multi-Coated optics

  • IP67 Waterproof, nitrogen purged for fog resistance, and dust proof

  • Uses (1) CR2032 Battery (Included)

  • Lens Covers included

  • Backed by Primary Arms Lifetime Warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Green reticle or FDE housing

What others are saying?:

4 out 5 stars @PrimaryArms 

MAY BE MY NEW FAVORITE OPTIC!

Put this on an AR15 in 5.56 and the performance was fantastic. The included mounting system is excellent, the reticle is outstanding and the field of view for such a small optic is surprising. I like the etched reticle and the brightness settings are perfect for all lighting conditions. Up until now my favorite optic was the Trijicon MRO but at half the price red dot is hard to beat. Seems just as if not more so rugged that much more expensive options. The only drawback and it's a small one is the 1 MOA adjustment increments which could make it difficult to really dial it in at range but out to 50 yards on my rifle it was dead on.

Link to other reviews:

The Firearm Blog

Price point:

MSRP = $249.99

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • AutoLive

  • Super Clear

  • Etched ACSS Cyclops reticle

  • Daylight bright

  • A lot of mounting height options

  • Forgiving eye relief

Cons:

  • 1 MOA click adjustments

  • Mushy brightness clicks

  • Tight brightness knob

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link:  Walker Defense

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Civivi Hadros

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 If you have listened to the podcast, you understand that I am impressed with the Civivi knives. One of their newest knives, the Hadros, didn’t let me down. The Hadros is a very svelte knife with a wharncliffe blade, thumb stud opening, micarta scales, and a liner lock. The Hadros also has an elegant look to it.

  Civivi took the Hadros and added in some civility. This knife is pretty, if I can say that about a pocket knife. All of this starts with the nicely shaped micarta handles, these happen to be olive colored. The handles are smooth, which gives them a softer look. Of course the smooth handles are not my favorite for actual use, as they are slick. But the size and shape give the Hadros a good look. The handle shape is quite slender in both directions. At first I thought this might be a problem. Amazingly though, the knife feels good in the hand. Civivi’s logo on the pivot screw is a nice touch also. To round out the aesthetics is a smooth pocket clip. This clip is reversible for left or right, tip up carry. The clip is strong and slides smoothly over the pockets edge. 

  The wharncliffe blade on the Hadros is super sharp. It’s made from 10Cr15CoMoV steel, which is a good intermediate steel for this knife. What really makes this wharncliffe blade shine is the hollow grind and flat cutting edge. The hollow grind makes it slice through stuff effortlessly, or at least that’s how it felt for me. The edge has held up well, but I have touched it up on my little sharpener a few times. It wasn’t dull by any means, I just wanted it a little sharper. One advantage, or disadvantage to this blade, is the super pointy tip. If you like that, it’s a nice sharp point. I worry that I might bend or break it off, but luckily, I haven’t. The spine of the blade also has some useful jimping. The jimping is exactly where my thumb rests when holding the Hadros and works well. For opening the Hadros, Civivi uses thumb studs. There’s one on each side of the blade, so being right or left handed doesn’t matter. The thumb stud is located in a good spot. It is easy to open the knife without catching your finger on anything but the thumb stud. Once the Hadros is open, the blade is held in place with a stainless steel liner lock. When locked, the liner lock doesn’t extend too far over the blade. It’s enough to hold the blade good and tight, but leaves enough room for future wear. 

  As with all the Civivi knives I’ve felt, the opening and closing of them is so smooth. The Hadros seems a little smoother than the Brazen model I have. The smoothness is due to their caged ceramic ball bearings. These bearings also help the Hadros to have little, if any, side to side play in the blade. With this knife, I just flick the thumb stud and the blade flips out effortlessly. 

  Some of the Hadros’ specifications are also noteworthy. First off, it weighs nothing at 2.57 ounces. For me, it is on the edge of whether I notice I’m even carrying a knife or not. It really is light. The blade is a useful 3.35” long. I like my pocket knives to have between a 2.75” and 3.5” length, so the Hadros is right where I like the blade length. It also has a 4.2” handle, so it won’t take up a bunch of real estate in your pocket. The micarta handles put the knife at 0.47” wide, and in spots, the depth is about the same. 

  I’ve been running around with the Hadros for about 3 months now. I carry it everyday, and probably use it every day. I’ve cut boxes and food with it, as well as other various things . It is a really good knife, don’t let the handle size fool you. It stays sharp. I haven’t broken the tip yet. It looks good in work pants, as well as Khaki’s. It even comes in a little soft case with a cleaning cloth. All in all, the Hadros has treated me well. 

  The Hadros has a nice look and feel to it. It does everything a pocket knife should, and some things even better. The smoothness, of opening the knife, is top notch. It’s sharp, and even holds an edge well. If you’re looking for something with a Wharncliffe style blade, go check out the Civivi Hadros. 


Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Slim, thumb stud folder with a Wharncliffe blade 

Target Market:

Those wanting a lightweight, elegant style pocket knife

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Wharncliffe style blade

  • Overall Length: 7.55" / 191.7mm

  • Blade Length: 3.35" / 85mm

  • Closed Length: 4.2" / 106.7mm

  • Blade Thickness: 0.12" / 3mm

  • Handle Thickness: 0.47" / 12mm

  • Weight: 2.57oz / 72.8g

  • Blade Material: 10Cr15CoMoV

  • Blade Hardness: 59-61HRC

  • Blade Grind: Hollow

  • Blade Finish: Satin

  • Olive Micarta Handle

  • Stainless Steel Liner

  • Tip-Up, L/R stainless steel pocket clip

  • Thumb Stud opening

  • Pivot Assembly: Caged Ceramic Ball Bearing

  • Liner Lock

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Brown or Black scales

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars on Amazon

Great quality, smooth action, great lockup. Perfect gentleman’s carry.

The blade is perfect for opening packages or doing detail work. Long blade reach

Link to other reviews:

Wayne’s Sharp World 

Price point:

MSRP = $70.00

Retail = $59.50 on Amazon

I need it now! Availability:

Civivi or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Sharp

  • Super smooth action

  • Hollow ground Wharncliffe blade

  • Weight, or lack of it

  • Pocket clip

  • Thumb Jimping

Cons:

  • Super pointy blade, could break off easily if misused

  • Slick and small handle

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link:  Gun Guys Garage

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ESEE Xancudo

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Written by: Rusty Odom

  With the last year being so hard on us firearms enthusiasts finding ammo, I went back to my roots and started getting back into knives. I have a background of being a machinist, for about 10 years, prior to becoming a paramedic. I worked a lot with tool steels in various states of hardness, stainless steel, Starrett stock, hot rolled, cold rolled and so on. I have hardened all kinds of steels, ground them into cutting dies for the smallest of tasks up to 200 ton presses. I am not a metallurgist, but I do have a good base knowledge enough to be dangerous. Here is a term I like to use, “J.E.D, just enough to be dangerous.”  So when I go to buy a knife I look for several things or a combination of 3 things, blade size, blade steel and carry method. With that being said, as of writing this, I have found my favorite fixed blade.

  The ESEE Xancudo, a fixed blade, light weight, easy handling knife with a 3 inch blade. I have numerous ESEE blades, most of them are in the Randall Adventure Training or R.A.T line. Most of these blades are a 1095 carbon steel blade that are easy to sharpen, keep a good edge, can be used like a plow mule, but also needs care of the edge so it doesn't rust. Then while surfing the internet I came across the Xancudo, I was smitten with this blade from the start. First it has a new blade steel for the Esee line, S35VN, which has a Rockwell hardness to 59-60 rc. It is small enough to work with one hand and is very well balanced. The blade is the right width at .125” or ⅛ of an inch. It weighs in at a whopping 3.8 ounces in the hand or 6 ounces total with the sheath. The blade comes with a stone washed finish, 3D G10 scale handles, and for the best part, it is made in the USA.

  The blade is a simple straight belly design with a flat back, small thumb texturing on the back, the finger choil is ground into the handle and gives a great one hand grip on it. The G10 scales are 3D cut, which means it is grippy and textured in all the right spots. The handles just seem to mold to your hand and making using it very nice. The handles are secured with allen screws and can be changed out. My particular knife is what some would call a high angle use blade because of the oval hole cut into the rear of it. You can wrap a piece of rope through it or attach a carabiner with a lanyard, so you wont drop it. They also have the option to have it without the hole. Both blades are a full tang construction through the handle. 

  First off I have to say I am not a fan of the ESEE sheaths, they serve their purpose and do their job well. But for me I am a sheath snob, I will call around and get a sheath made or try and find a company that already has them in stock. It is the generic style that most of their brand come with. It is a vertical carry, injected molded sheath with a spring clip on it. It also has holes so you can use some cordage and secure it to your pack. I went to RK Custom Kydex and ordered a new sheath and used some button style soft loops to carry it horizontally on my belt. This makes it easier for me to be able to grab it with either hand. 

  Let's get to the nitty gritty of how this knife performs. Right out of the box the Xancudo was sharp, I mean the hairs on my arms were jumping off before the blade got to them. I got this knife right at the end of summer and couldn't wait until hunting season to see how it performed. I was not disappointed at all. On two different occasions, while hunting, my 14 year old daughter harvested a couple of wild hogs. So this was the best time to put the knife to work. It cleanly field dressed the swine on the creek bank with little effort of pressure on the blade. During the skinning process it was like using a scalpel, matter of fact that is kind of how she held it. With just a little bit of motion and pressure the blade gilded through the hide, muscles, tenderloin, around the rib cage of both pigs. I examined the blade after each use and it was still razor sharp. I even put the blade back in the sheath and forgot to clean it, when I pulled it back out there was no rust to be found. I was very pleased with this. If it would have been a 1095 steel blade it would have been rusted and corroded from the blood. 

  So would I recommend this knife to anyone? Yes, I would! Knives are something that can last a lifetime unless you are Tony or Zane (Marines), the blade steel is forgiving, it is great for EDC, Bushcraft, hobby work, wearing around your neck, vertical, horizontally or sticking in your pocket, or securing the sheath with a  piece of cord around your belt so it stays and doesn't hit the ground when you pull it out. I have several ammo cans full of knives that have been given to me or I bought on a whim, they live in those cans because my needs have changed, blade steel has gotten better. I no longer needed a 10 inch Bowie knife or a 7 inch Ontario RAT on my belt. So for what I do, this blade hits the sweet spot. Now, not to scare you off, but here is the thick of it. The price might be more than some are willing to pay. Not me, it is always Christmas because I buy my own gifts year round. I think I made up a holiday when I bought this one though. The price on the ESEE website is $186.00. I bought mine at Knifeworks for $106.95. Now that is a deal for a knife that you can pass down to your kids. On a side note, Knifeworks offers a payment plan with a 3rd party company called Sezzle, they are interest free and break up the payments into 4 instalments. So the knife just started looking better, read on for more.

So let us recap this blade:

Overall Length: 7.12”

Cutting edge: 3’

Blade thickness 0.125”

Weight: with sheath 6 ounces/without 3 ounces

Sheath: Molded or injected plastic if some sort

Finish: stone washed

Handle: 3D G10

MADE IN THE USA

WARRANTY: 

ESEE knives are made with absolute attention to detail using the finest raw materials and care during the manufacturing process. We stand behind our knives with a 100% unconditional lifetime guarantee. If your ESEE knife should ever break, we will repair or replace it. This warranty follows the knife throughout its life, anywhere in the world. No sales receipt or warranty registration required.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Perfect for EDC, Bushcraft

Target Market:

Outdoor enthusiast, hikers, hunters or anyone wanting a good fixed blade knife

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • The warranty says it all. LIFETIME, NO MATTER WHAT! 

  • Great corrosion resistant new age stainless blade.

  • Easy to sharpen

  • Perfect for detail knife usage

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Two versions

XAN2-006 (no hole in handle)

XAN1-006 (hole in the handle)

Replacement G10 grips for $22.95

What others are saying?:

I did not find a lot of other reviews for this knife. There are some but not well detailed. 

Link to other reviews:

Prepper Del on YouTube

Knife News

Price point:

MSRP = $186.00

Retail = $106.95 at Knifeworks.com

I need it now! Availability:

ESEE, Knifeworks, Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Razor sharp 

  • Easy to sharpen 

  • Corrosion resistant 

  • Scales are interchangeable 

  • Lightweight but built like a tank 

Cons:

  • The sheath is not comfortable for those with love handle 

  • Could use a dedicated lanyard hole at the rear. 

  • Possibly too small of a grip for those with larger hands 

Score: 9.00 Amazing

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Walker Defense NILE Rail Panels

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  Walker Defense Research has come out with some new rail panels. They call these “NILE”. Which stands for Non-Slip Inlaid Element, more on that later. Essentially these are Silicon Carbide grip panels for your M-Lok handguard. They are also 100% made in the USA, including the mounting hardware.

  The NILE’s are very well thought out. Walker Defense uses a thin heat resistant polymer that is somewhat flexible. Then they lay the Silicon Carbide into a pocket that is molded into the polymer. Silicone Carbide is basically the sand stuff they use on sandpaper. This produces a nice “grippy” surface that is easily attached to your M-Lok slotted handguard. The flexibility also makes it easier to install the rails into the M-Lok slots because they aren’t rigid. The heat resistance also helps insulate your hand from excessive barrel heat, if that’s an issue.

  When I say these are thin, they are. Of the 4 pack I received, they all measure right around ⅛” thick. Not even really enough to notice the thickness. They are 0.70” wide. So just enough to not hang over the flats of the M-Lok slots they mount into. Then they are 4.75” long, or they take up 3 M-Lok slots. The Silicon Carbide, or grippy part, takes up a little more than 3.5” of that length.  1 and 2 slot versions are also available, they are 1.5” and 2.125” long, respectively. Walker also offers custom combination packs. These let you choose what length rails you would like to get. That way you don’t have to order a 3 pack of 3 slot rails, and a 3 pack of another length if you only need one 3 slot, and 2 - 1 slots, for example.

The NILE rails also have an extra mounting feature. If you look at the back of the rail panels, you see a little clip or two. These are between the mounting screws. The clips push into, and lock the rail panels into the extra rail slots. It’s a nice little added feature that should help secure the rail panels under extreme circumstances. These little clip tabs make installation a little bit tricky. To install them, start at one end, then push them in along the rail. I had to tap on, some of them, with a little hammer to get them to pop through the M-Lok slot. The panels probably wouldn’t go anywhere, even if you lost the two end screws.

  Some people like grip panels, some people don’t. I’m usually in the category of “don’t” because of the thickness of them. The Walker Defense NILE’s definitely changed my mind. Even when I ran one each at 3,6, and 9 O’clock, I didn’t even notice the added thickness. The panels sit nice and tight up against the rail too, probably adding to me not noticing the thickness. Or should I say slimness? I’m pretty much sold on these minimalist grip panels.

  The Silicon Carbide inlays are really where the NILE’s shine. Now we can understand the name - Non-Slip (for the silicon carbide), Inlaid (it’s put in the) Element. They are super grippy but not so much that you’ll tear skin off. With gloves on, without gloves on, wet hands, dirty hands, either way the panels give a great surface to grip the forend. I really liked how well they feel over the normal “smooth” feel of a handguard. They definitely gave me better control of the rifle. 

  Another feature that comes to mind about the NILE’s, is their weight. They weigh about nothing. Each panel without mounting hardware is 7 grams! A 3 pack of 3 slot panels weighs 3/4 of an ounce. So you really don’t even notice them, at least weight wise. 

  Dirt can be a problem with these types of panels. The silicon carbide can pack up with dirt. Kind of like sandpaper does after use. Walker Defense has an option for a “Dirt Eraser”. Yes you heard that correctly. This eraser pulls the dirt out of the silicon carbide panel. No more scrubbing with a soapy toothbrush. Just rub the “Eraser” on, and it pulls the dirt out. Yes, just like that, and yes, it works. I’m pretty sure it’s some form of magic.

Dirt Eraser in lower righthand corner

  Walker Defense has done it again with a great product. The NERO brake was the first, now the NILE rail panels. The NILE’s were everything I wanted in a grip panel - slim, lightweight, and has a really good grip texture. The eraser is a nice touch too. Go check out the NILE’s, or anything else Walker Defense has to offer. They make top tier firearm accessories.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Super grippy M-Lok rail panels

Target Market:

Those wanting a good grip with their firearm support hand

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Made from heat resistant polymer

  • Thermal resistant

  • Silicon Carbide grip surface provides an aggressive gripping surface

  • Radiused edges for snag reduction

  • Super slim profile

  • Low weight - 7 grams per panel, or less

  • Screws feature anti-vibration patch to prevent loosening

  • “Dirt” Eraser option

  • Allen wrench included for installation

  • 100% US made

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

1, 2, and 3 M-Lok slot versions available

What others are saying?:

Brand new product - nothing yet

Link to other reviews:

Brand new product - no new reviews found

Price point:

MSRP = $49.99 for 3 pack

As tested = $59.99 in the 4 pack

Custom Combo’s

Use code “INSIDER15” for 15% off

I need it now! Availability:

Walker Defense

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Grip Texture

  • Dirt Eraser

  • Thin panels

  • Custom package quantity and lengths

  • 100% made in USA

Cons:

  • Can pick up dirt fairly easily

  • Hard to install

Score: 9.00 Amazing

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Favorite Link:  Atibal Optics

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Swampfox Liberty green dot

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  Swampfox has been making a name for themselves over the last few years. Over these years, they have been greatly improving their optics lineup. One of these is the Liberty green dot, an open reflex mini-sized dot sight. The Liberty is a welcomed improvement over their previous mini red dot. It is essentially a new streamlined, updated, and improved version.

  The Liberty covers all the normal bases when you think of a mini red dot, or green in this case. It’s small (size below under FNBs). It uses a RMR mounting footprint. The RMR footprint is what I think should be a standard. Because of this footprint, many aftermarket companies make pre-cut slides for most of the popular pistols out there. Making it an easy process to get the sight mounted up and in use. It also gives various mounting options for if you were to use it on a rifle. The Liberty is made from 7075-T6 aluminum, and then anodized. Pretty typical in today's market. Of course it has no magnification, or 1x, and is parallax free. The window size is 16x22mm, which works well for something like a carry pistol. 

  Besides all the “normal” mini dot stuff, the Liberty has some useful upgrades. First off, it is a green dot. Yes, you can also get red if you like, but this one is green. The dot is 3 moa, a really good size for a pistol. It has 10 brightness settings, all accessed by 2 recessed buttons, on the left side of the sight. Swampfox also put a CR1632 battery in a top mount, so no pulling the sight off to change the battery. 

  Auto on/off is one of the best improvements Swampfox made to the Liberty. They call this “Shake ‘N Wake”. What the Shake ‘n Wake does is automatically turn the sight on and off. After around 4 minutes of non use, the sight goes into a power save mode. To power up the green dot again, just move the sight. The movement it takes is very minimal. Just tapping on it with your finger will wake the sight up. It also wakes up on the last brightness setting that you had it set on. So if the Liberty is on the highest setting, it wakes up there, and so on. If you really want to turn the Liberty completely off, you can hold the brightness down button for 3 seconds to turn it off. Then you must touch the brightness up button, to turn it back on and into the Shake ‘N Wake mode. I personally really like this function. The sight is ready to go when I need it. It has always displayed the green dot when I pick up the pistol it is mounted on. Battery life is stated at 4000 hrs on the medium setting. Since it has the Shake ‘N Wake function, the battery actually lasts longer than you would think. Swampfox says to change the battery about once a year. I don’t know if I’d go that long. Maybe every 6 months. The batteries are super cheap anyhow. I have had the original battery in it for 3 months without any problems. I also leave it on the second to the highest brightness setting.

  Sometimes sights, like the Liberty, can be prone to accidental droppings. This doesn’t always seem to do anything to the sight, but sometimes it can. So Swampfox came up with their “Ironsides” protection shield. The shield is made from 304 stainless steel. 304 stainless is pretty darn strong from my experience. The Ironsides literally wraps itself around the Liberty. It leaves a tiny space around the optic to help keep the Liberty from the abuse of drops and other impacts. It does this without really adding much size to the total package. Thankfully I haven’t dropped it yet, but I do feel protected if I do. 

  Since Swampfox knew that I might mount the LIberty on a number of different pistols, they included their “ultimate red dot screw pack”. The screw pack contains a plethora of red dot mounting screws. Both different thread pitches, and lengths. They also include a few extra long screws for “custom mounting”. Of course I had to cut a couple of the extra long screws down to get the Liberty and Ironsides to mount up on the Strike Industries slide. But that’s what the longer screws were for. The screw pack is a nice thing to have around, especially if you mount up a lot of these size sights.

Dot reflection can be seen right on top of front sight. Dot in center is actual dot and very clear.

  Now, you probably are wondering what my thoughts are on the green dotted Liberty. It works well. The green seems a little nicer to the eye, not as harsh as red. I can still pick up the dot easily. There is a small reflection of the dot in the bottom of the viewing window. This is a little annoying. The reflection is not near as bright, so it's not like you can mistake it for the dot. I really like the Shake ‘N Wake feature. The green dot is bright enough to be seen in direct sunlight, a good thing. The window is super clear, without any real noticeable tint. The Ironsides shield is great, I’d definitely say it’s worth the extra money. The Liberty also uses a RMR mounting footprint, so there are plenty of mounting options available for it. I’d say the Liberty is a good little mini green dot sight.

  Swampfox has done some good stuff with the Liberty. The Liberty is leaps and bounds better than Swampfox’s first mini red dot. Between the Ironsides protection and green dot availability, you have plenty of options to choose from. Go check out the complete line of Swampfox optics over at their website.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Mini green dot sight with protective shield (Ironsides)

Target Market:

Those looking for a mini green dot that has an RMR mounting platform

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

Liberty

  • 3 MOA Dot

  • 1x magnification

  • Shake 'N Wake auto on

  • Auto off after 4 minutes

  • 22 mm window

  • 10 illumination settings - up/down buttons

  • CR 1632 battery

  • IPX 7 water resistance

  • 1.78”(length) x 1.09” (width) x 1.0”(height)

  • Weight - 1 ounce

  • 7075 T6 aluminum construction 

  • Parallax free

  • Multi-coated lens

  • 90 MOA adjustment range

IronSides

  • SUS 304 blackened stainless steel construction

  • Includes 6-32 x .393"/ T10 screws

  • Other mounting screws are available in the Ultimate Screw Pack

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Red dot

What others are saying?:

4 out of 5 stars @Swampfoxoptics.com

So far, so good. Basically a budget DPP on the RMR footprint. Very solid idea. Lots of great features here. Bang for your buck this is hard to beat. Durability has been great so far, I have one riding 45° on a rifle and one on a Glock 21 (.45) that I had the slide cut for. They have been holding up fine. My faith in them grows the more I use them. My only complaint is that the windage and elevation adjustments do not have clicks. This may or may not bug you, but it bugs me. Also a shield for the justice would be cool, it would really hammer home the budget Delta Point pro angle.

Link to other reviews:

Guns & Tactics YouTube

Price point:

MSRP :    Liberty = $249.00

Ironsides = $45.00

Ultimate Screw Pack = $19.99

Retail = $225.00 at Brownells

I need it now! Availability:

SwampFox or Brownells

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Top load battery

  • RMR footprint

  • Shake n Wake

  • Clear

  • IronSides shield

Cons:

  • Dot reflection

  • No clicks on windage & elevation adjustment screws

  • Battery life

Score: 7.50 Good

Favorite Link: Gun Guys Garage

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Powertac E9R-G4

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  When Powertac contacted me about reviewing a flashlight, I honestly was a little hesitant. I shouldn’t have been! They sent out one of their E9R-G4 tactical lights. The E9 is the model, the G4 just means it’s the fourth generation of this light. This handheld light is way better than I expected. It’s also a very useful handheld light.

G43 for size reference

  I’ll start with saying that the E9R has plenty of features. Some of these features even rival more expensive lights. High on the priority list, at least for me, is the use of an 18650 rechargeable battery. The E9 comes with one 3200maH high discharge 18650. On the battery note, it will also work with 2 CR123 batteries, but the max output will be limited. The light also comes with extra O-rings, a lanyard, and a magnetic USB charging cord. The magnetic charger cord is useful, since it just snaps on and starts charging. But, if you don’t like the magnetic, or you lose the cord, you can pop out the magnetic button and charge the E9 with a standard micro USB connector. There is also a charge indicator light, opposite the charging port. It shines red when charging and blue when fully charged.

Target looking dot, at the front, is for the magnetic charger cord

  Operation of the E9R is pretty easy and self explanatory. Push the tailcap button lightly and the light turns on momentarily. Pushing the tailcap button, until it clicks, gives you constant on. The last setting, you previously used, is what setting the light turns on at. The E9R has 6 adjustment settings. These settings are done with a button, on the side of the tail cap, when the light is on. If you push the side button, with the light off, it goes into the strobe mode, which is 1 of the 6 modes. That leaves 5 other modes for brightness. To cycle through the modes, turn the light on and then push the side button. The modes just cycle up from the lowest to the highest brightness settings. These settings are: “Firefly” at 0.64 lumens, “Low” at 71 lumens, “Medium” at 270 lumens, “High” at 1135 lumens, and “Turbo” at 2550 lumens. These are rated using the ANSI FL1 standard, a good article on the standard can be found HERE. Run time at the highest setting is 2 hours and goes up a lot on the lower settings! I found the E9 easily adjustable. I usually throw it in my pocket on the medium setting so I don’t blind myself when using it to look for stuff. Then if I need more light, it’s just a couple of taps on the side button.  If using the light as a tactical light, I would leave it on the Turbo setting, but I use it as more of a task light. I also found the Firefly setting to be very useful as a super minimal task light.

Vehicle Hi-Beams only

E9R-G4 on Turbo, no vehicle lights

  Since the E9R is more of an EDC light, It has more of a flood pattern to it. That means that the beam is more spread out. At 9800 candela and 2550 lumens, I would expect that. The light doesn’t really have a “hotspot” either, which is also expected from this style of light. Inside, you can see a hotspot, but it’s nothing like a high candela rated light. This lets the E9 work well in enclosed spaces, like a house. It also has enough of a lumen rating to work well outside. Powertac rated the throw at 197 meters max, but we all know that at 197 meters, you will see light, but can’t make out what anything is. I would say the max usable distance for this light is around 100 yards. Even at 100yds, you wouldn’t be able to make out what someone is holding. It has a very “white” tint to the light, so getting through fog or smoke might be a bit difficult with the “Turbo” mode, but turn down the brightness to “low” and the light doesn’t reflect back near as much. For everyday use, I really liked the beam pattern of the E9R.

On “Turbo” mode

  The E9R uses an aluminum body. This means that it is quite durable. Powertac also type 3 hard anodizes it for better durability. I’ve dropped it a few times onto concrete without any damage. The Bezel has aggressive cuts to use as an impact weapon. The lens is recessed back from the bezel to help keep it from getting damaged. The light is knurled extensively for good grip. I appreciate the knurling, as I can get a really good grip on it. The rear tailcap switch is slightly protected. The button actually sits up past the end of the light slightly. I don’t like this for two reasons. One, the light can turn on easier in your pocket, and Two, the light can't stand up by itself. Being able to stand the light up can be useful when using the light and having your hands free to do other stuff. I do carry the E9 in my pocket, but it does have a removable pocket clip. The pocket clip worked well, at least the few times I used it, but these type of clips are prone to getting pulled off if you catch it on something. I do find the E9 a little bit long for pocket carry, if it were about an inch shorter, it would be perfect, but I’m not sure that’s possible in an 18650 light. If you don’t like either of those carry options, Powertac includes a belt holster for the E9. It holds the light way too tight for it to be useful for me. It also comes with a lanyard, which is pretty decent compared to others I’ve seen.

I E9R isn’t without flaws. If the threads get dirty or oily, the light doesn’t want to go into Turbo mode. Just keep them clean by wiping them off every now and then, and you shouldn’t have problems. I also noticed that when the battery is getting lower, the E9 also doesn’t want to go into Turbo mode. It will default back to the High setting, similar to like it does when using CR123 batteries.

  I was really surprised at how well I like the E9R-G4. The beam pattern works well for an EDC light, it is super bright, has good run time, and even has a super low “task light” function. The E9 is just a good all around EDC light. Powertac has a bunch of other lights also, after using the E9, I wouldn’t hesitate to go see what they have.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Rechargeable high output tactical handheld light

Target Market:

Every day carry

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Cree XHP50 White LED

  • 18650 3200mAh Rechargeable Battery included

  • Optional CR123 use

  • Magnetic USB Charging

  • Plastic Holster

  • Spare O-Rings

  • Lanyard

  • Length: 138 mm (5.43”)

  • Bezel Diameter: 25.4 mm (1”)

  • Body Diameter: 23 mm (0.905”)

  • Weight: 85g - 3 ounces (without battery)

  • IPX8 waterproof (submersible to 2 meters) 

  • 2550 lumen max output

  • 9800 candela

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Other flashlight models

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars on Amazon

 Bright and Compact.

Perfect light for my duty belt, powerful yet compact, and easy charging. This is my second PowerTac flashlight, and just like the first it does not disappoint. The holster could be better engineered though, found it to difficult to get in and out in a hurry if needed. Bought an aftermarket holster that works better.

Link to other reviews:

EveryDayTacticalVids

Price point:

MSRP = $129.95

Retail = $90.97 with code “GGR” 

I need it now! Availability:

Powertac or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Aggressive knurling

  • Bright

  • 5 brightness settings

  • CR123 compatible 

Cons:

  • Longer than other 18650 lights

  • Holster is too tight

Score:  7.50 Good

Favorite Link:  Walker Defense Research

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Adaptive Tactical EX Stock & Tactical Grip

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  Years ago I had the opportunity to use one of Adaptive Tactical’s shotgun stocks. I was impressed with the recoil pad it had. So when they offered to send their new M4 stock and pistol grip, I was all for it. This EX Performance stock has received some upgrades recently over their previous version. Coupled with the Lightweight Tactical grip, you have a nice combination for just about anything needing a new stock and grip.

  The EX M4 style stock still has a bunch of the normal stock stuff. It fits on your standard mil-spec extension tube. It is adjustable with controls similar to an M4 stock. The cheek piece gives a better feel than a lot of adjustable stocks. There is also a bunch more.

  Adaptive Tactical gave the new EX stock a few upgrades. Some of these might be noticeable, others, not so much. It has a larger stock adjusting lever for easier adjustments. They put in an oversized lock pin to hold the placement of the stock better. This pin also adds strength when using the stock on a shotgun or AR10 style rifle. The pins holding the adjustment lever are also covered. Adaptive Tactical says it’s for easier stock removal and installation, I think it just makes it look more refined. Also included is a reversible QD mounting socket. Lastly, it uses their fantastic recoil pad.

  As far as specs on the EX stock, here they are. It weighs in at 12 ounces. But lose the recoil pad, and it drops to 8 ounces. It’s 7 ¼ inches long with the recoil pad. You’ll lose a little over an inch if you remove the pad. The extra pad length also can make the stock work better for tall people, or those with long arms.

  Newly added to the Adaptive Tactical lineup is their Lightweight Tactical Grip (LTG). The grip pairs nicely with the EX stock. As one can guess, the LTG is highly skeletonized to reduce weight. It is made from reinforced polymer and includes mounting hardware. The LTG also has a 25 degree grip angle with a medium beavertail. Lastly, it weighs in at a tiny 2.6 ounces. 

  I’ve had the pleasure of using both the EX stock and LTG grip on different shooting outings. One of those was a shooting match that consisted of mainly rifle and pistol drills. This meant there were quite a few transitions from pistol to rifle, etc. I was worried that the super soft recoil pad would get caught on my gear. I was pleasantly surprised when it didn’t. An added bonus was that there is little to no recoil with that pad on there, yes it was only a 5.56 AR, so not much anyhow. Making adjustments with the oversize adjustment lever was super easy too. The EX stock has a little more play, on the buffer tube, than I would have liked. It didn’t seem to bother any, but I’d like it a little tighter as it rattled a bit. During the match, I also had a sling attached in the QD socket. It did what it was supposed to do, hold the sling. It is not a non swivel QD, so the sling could possibly twist on you. I didn’t have this happen, but it is possible. Overall, I liked how the stock worked for me.

  The Lightweight Tactical Grip wasn’t used during the match, but has been used a bit. It is light, but gives me a pretty good grip on the rifle. The way the LTG is shaped, works well for both small and large handed shooters. It is shaped so that the grip is smaller toward the top, and larger toward the bottom. I found that it felt like my hand was getting forced up toward the top. This gave me a really good grip and made it easy to use the controls. The grip may not be for everyone, as my son said it felt weird to him, but he didn’t have any problems using it. The grip angle seemed to work well for me too.

  The EX stock and Lightweight Pistol Grip are good performers. They work as intended and have some really nice features. If you're building a rifle, or have something with some major recoil, the stock could be perfect for you. The LTG really is personal, you may like it, you may not. It’s very light, so when weight is a concern, Adaptive Tactical has you covered. You can check the stock/grip combo out and more at Adaptive Tactical.  

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Adjustable stock with super soft pad and lightweight pistol grip

Target Market:

AR builders and users or anyone wanting a M4 style stock with a recoil pad

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

Stock:

  • Compatible with Mil-Spec sized extension tubes

  • Reversible QD socket

  • Oversized adjustment handle

  • Weight: 12 oz

  • Length: 7.25"

  • Made in the U.S.A.

Grip:

  • One-piece polymer construction

  • Ergonomic shape; comfortable with aggressive design

  • Beavertail

  • Includes mounting hardware

  • Weight: 2.6 oz.

  • Grip Angle: 25 degrees

  • Dimensions: 4.75” L x 2.25” W x 1.125” H

  • Made in the U.S.A.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

FDE

What others are saying?:

Stock:

Jim S - 5/5 stars @adaptive tactical 

Adaptive Tactical Stock is a superior product, strong design, fit and function is excellent, felt recoil is reduced to a minimum, adds value to any rifle. Thicker recoil pad is a plus, adds that extra length needed for better fit and comfort, especially for shooters with longer arms.

Grip:

Country Girl - 5/5 stars @adaptive tactical

Awesome grips, lightweight yet seem heavy duty, feel good in hand, perfect angle, and great customer service. 

Link to other reviews:

The Truth About Guns

Price point:

MSRP = $59.99 combo price

Retail = $49.99 for the stock

             $17.99 for the grip

I need it now! Availability:

Adaptive Tactical or Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Super soft recoil pad

  • Multiple sling mounting options

  • Skeletonized grip

  • Made in USA 

Cons:

  • Stock fit is loose

  • Rotational QD mount

Score: 7.00 Good

Favorite Link:  Walker Defense Research

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Tactical Kinetics Complete G19 slide

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  When I think of Tactical Kinetics, I typically think of barrels. After all, they refer to themselves as "the barrel guys." Well, they have branched out into making Glock style slides for gen 3 pistols. You can have these slides either stripped or complete. A complete Tactical Kinetics slide is what arrived in my mailbox. 

  Speaking of a complete slide. When Tactical Kinetics say complete, it means complete. It comes fully assembled with their slide completion kit, and one of their excellent Glock barrels. Complete slides can be had either with a threaded barrel, or without. This one came with a threaded one, which includes a knurled thread protector. As a finishing touch, the slide also comes with sights. The sights on this slide were standard 3-dot white ones. The sights are made from steel, unlike factory Glock sights. They are nothing special, but having them makes it a complete ready to use product. My only complaint is that the slide is not cut for any kind of pistol optic. 

  The Tactical Kinetics slide also has some features some shooters might want. The slide has some very nice front and rear cocking serrations. They are angled and straight at the same time. What I'm saying is that the top portion of them is angled forward and the lower portion is more vertical. These serrations are cut pretty deep toward the top, and then less deep near the bottom. I really appreciated how deep the cut was near the top. I was always able to get a good grip on them. Having the slide serrations cut deep like this, can help with getting a better grip on them, with muddy hands, or if mud and dirt get packed into them. The slide also has a slightly recessed cut on the sides. This cut probably reduces a little weight, but really it just makes it look better. However, there are some slight machine marks in this area. They won't hurt anything at all, just noticeable up close. 

  The slide is also a "closed style." By closed style, I mean there are no extra cuts for dirt to enter into the internal part of the slide. For a carry gun, I think this style works better. It won't prevent everything from getting into the slide, but it will help. 

  To protect the slide and barrel, Tactical Kinetics nitride finishes them. The black nitride finish is well done and smooth. The slide is also a hardened stainless steel, adding to the durable finish. Between the hardened stainless steel and the nitride coating, the slide should last a very long time. 

  I won’t go too much into the barrel, as there is already a review HERE for one of their G17 barrels. But I will mention that it is a very nice barrel that locks up nicely to the Tactical Kinetics slide. It is made from 416R stainless steel, has a 1 in 10 twist, and is button rifled with 6 grooves. This particular one is threaded ½-28. If you need a stand alone barrel, these are a great option.

  As usual, I used the TK slide on a few different pistol frames. As expected, the slide to frame fit was excellent. I would say almost match grade. It fit very snug at first. Probably taking about 50 rounds, or so, to get it to cycle 100%. It now lives on a Polymer 80 OD frame. The slide works well with the Polymer 80 frame. Plus, it’s lines look good with the Polymer 80 platform. Using an 80% frame and the Tactical Kinetics slide gives you a complete pistol for around $500. The whole combo is quite accurate. I didn’t put it on paper, but on steel it was really good, as one can see the splatter marks from the hits. 

  Tactical Kinetics has done a fine job with this complete slide. It has everything you would want in a basic slide. All you need to do is put it on your frame, and you’re ready to go. Not having an optic cut is a bummer, but that’s the only negative for the complete slide. Everything in and on the slide is top quality and all of it is made in the USA. Go check out Tactical Kinetics for a Glock slide, or any number of their great barrels. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Complete Gen3 G19 slide

Target Market:

Primarily builders of Glockish style pistols

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Front and rear cocking serrations

  • Made from 17-4 stainless steel 

  • Heat treated 

  • Threaded 416 SS black nitride coated barrel

  • Thread protector included

  • Standard 3 dot sights

  • Fully assembled

  • Black nitride finish

  • Made in USA

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Non-threaded barrel or stripped

What others are saying?:

Nothing found, they are pretty new as of writing

Link to other reviews:

Ditto

Price point:

MSRP = $395.00

I need it now! Availability:

Tactical Kinetics

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Complete with sights

  • Nice cocking serrations

  • Threaded barrel with thread protector

  • Glock Gen 3 compatible

  • Made in USA

Cons:

  • Machining marks

  • No option for a red dot optic

Score: 7.50 Good

Favorite Link:  Atibal Optics

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Occam Defense Hex 2.0 stock

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  Occam Defense is mostly known for their AK products. However, some of their products can be adapted to other firearm platforms. The Hex 2.0 fixed stock is one of those offerings. In fact, I installed it on an Enoch 10/22 chassis. It might be a little overkill, but that is kind of what I expected from the Hex stock.

  When I was looking for a stock, for the little 10/22, I remembered Occam Defense. Since the Hex 2.0 uses a picatinny attachment, it would mate up nicely to the Enoch’s picatinny rear rail. Guess what? It did. The stock slid onto the pic rail tightly. I had to push pretty hard to get it on. Occam had mentioned that this could be a problem. Something about most picatinny rails not being cut to the original specifications. Either way, the Hex 2.0 worked without much trouble. The clamping portion of the Hex 2.0 is made for a 4 slot vertical rail. The chassis I used only had a 3 slot rail but the hex 2.0 still clamped solidly to it.

  This little Hex 2.0 stock is stout. Being made from billet 6061 aluminum helps make it that way. It weighs under a pound. Occam then hard coat anodizes it black. I would bet that you could beat this thing on concrete, and not bend it a bit. But really, it’s a solid stock. 

  Occam put a few nice touches into the Hex 2.0 stock. It has 3 built-in, anti-rotation QD mounts. 2 are at the rear of the stock, 1 at the top, and 1 at the bottom. The third QD mount is in the center of the stock, more toward the front. Machined in around the third QD is also a slogan: “By the Free, for the Free.” Pretty fitting for a stock made in the USA and, ironically, mainly being used on AK platform rifles. This variety of QD mounts will give you plenty of options for different sling mounting. I found them to come in useful, especially since I was using the stock on a 10/22 and didn’t have any way to mount a sling at the rear of the rifle.

  I really appreciated the details that went into making the Hex 2.0 stock. Occam machined a nice ribbed pattern on the butt of the stock. It’s not sharp, but more smooth, and gives a nice feel on the shoulder. Well, at least better than a lot of other metal stocks do. Something I immediately noticed on the Hex 2.0 stock, were the steel inserts for the picatinny rail clamping screws. Definitely a top notch idea. Occam could have skimped here and just tapped the aluminum for these screws, but they didn’t! Thanks to these metal inserts and the Torx head screws, you can really clamp this stock down tight on the picatinny mounting rail. As an added bonus, the stock comes packed in straw, like an AK might have years ago.

  The dimensions of the Hex 2.0 could seem small to some. They look this way because the stock is primarily designed for AK’s. So it has a shorter length than an AR15 stock. Coming in at 9” long, or 8 ¾” from the back of the picatinny rail. This length gave me the shortness I was looking for on the 10/22 build, as I wanted to keep it shorter, but still utilize a fixed style stock. The Hex 2.0 worked perfectly for it. 

  I am very pleased with the Occam Defense Hex 2.0 stock. Even though it is an AK stock, in my opinion, it works very well for my purpose. The Hex 2.0 is super sturdy, looks super nice, and has some other nice features to it. I wouldn’t hesitate to go check out the offerings from Occam Defense, especially the Hex stocks.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Lightweight Fixed aluminum stock, mainly for AK’s

Target Market:

Those wanting a fixed stock on an AK or other platforms using a picatinny rail mounting interface

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Billet 6061 aluminum

  • Black type 3 anodizing

  • 3 anti-rotate QD mounting points

  • 1913 picatinny rail mounting

  • 9” length

  • 8 ¾” length from rear of 1913 rail

  • Steel thread inserts for clamping screws

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Folding version and original Hex

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found

Price point:

MSRP = $159.99

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Occam Defense

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Sturdy

  • 3 QD mounting points

  • Clamp system (steel inserts, torx screws)

  • 1913 mounting

Cons:

  • May be short for certain uses

Score: 8.50 Great

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,

Strike Industries LITESLIDE

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  Strike Industries has been introducing new products at a phenomenal rate. Some of these products are for Glock style handguns. One of them is called the “Liteslide.” The Liteslide is a slide for Gen 3 Glock 17 and 19 size pistols. This includes Strike Industries “Strike 80” 80% pistol frames. The Liteslide can be had in black or FDE, Strike Industries was kind enough to send me one of the black coated ones.

  Pistol builders, and those looking to modify a current pistol, are the primary market for the Liteslide. After all, it is a Glock Gen 3 style slide. The slide is a drop in replacement for those wishing to do so. However, it comes in the “stripped” form. Meaning it has none of the parts to make it function.. Strike Industries does make a “completion kit”, and a barrel, so that you can make it a fully functioning slide. The tighter tolerances, used during manufacturing, can possibly lead to better accuracy and a tighter slide to frame fit.

  One reason someone might want a replacement slide is to allow the mounting of pistol sized optics. The Liteslide has you covered here. It has a machined out flat, on the rear of the slide, to mount optics on. What Strike Industries did was make this a multi-optic mounting surface, or the “SI Universal Optics Mount cut.” This was done by adding a bunch of different screw holes. The optics that fit are mentioned below in the “FNB’s”. But essentially, it’s most of the ones currently available EXCEPT the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro and the Sig ROMEO 1 PRO/03. Strike Industries supplies a bunch of screws and pins for the various mounting of the aforementioned optics. Also included is a cover plate, in case you aren’t mounting an optic to the slide. The cover plate is just a machined piece of plastic that matches the lines of the slide.

  The Strike Industries Liteslide abounds with features. The slide is fully enclosed. It is not one of the ones with lightening slots or holes, but it is still lightweight. It is lighter than a factory slide, giving it reduced momentum during cycling. This can aid in faster follow up shots for the shooter. Since there are no cut-outs in the slide, there is less of a chance that dirt and grime can get inside the slide to cause problems. Front and rear, angled, cocking serrations are cut into the slide too. They are sharp on the front side, and angled on the back side. They give a fantastic grip when manually cycling the slide. The Liteslide also has angled cuts between the top and the sides of the slide. These give the slide a nice slim profile and look. There are a few other machined out cuts to help aid in the looks department too. Also, on the left side is a “SI’ and on the right side is a “19”. These are not obtrusive. In fact, I usually forget they are there. As expected, it uses Glock front and rear sights. However, some rear sights may be too deep/long to work with an optic, as they may interfere with the optic sight. Strike Industries sights, however, do not have this problem. Strike Industries also gave the Liteslide a black nitride coating, which should help it last a lifetime.

  Since the Liteslide comes in a stripped form, it must be assembled first. I just used a G19 upper parts kit that I purchased from an on-line retailer. All the parts went in just fine and worked as expected. The internal machining of the slide is fantastic. I didn’t notice any machining marks, which probably led to the ease of assembly. I already had a barrel to complete the build, and it dropped right in.

  I used the Liteslide with both Iron sights and an optic. When I first received the slide, I installed a set of Night Fision sights. The front screwed on and fit great. The rear also pressed in like normal. Then after using it for a while with iron sights, I installed a Swampfox Liberty. The Liberty uses a RMR pattern, which is one of the options on the Liteslide. This style of optic sits toward the front of the “Universal Optics Mount cut.” I installed some of the supplied pins, along with screws, to hold it down. It mounted up nicely. Because the Liteslide has a universal mounting cut, the Liberty sits toward the front, leaving about an ⅛” gap at the rear. This gap doesn’t hurt anything, it just looks a little odd. This is really the only downside to Strike Industries universal mounting cut. Otherwise it works great.

  I’ve shot the Liteslide on various pistol frames. It has been used on 3 different Polymer 80 frames and a Lone Wolf frame. It’s permanent home is the Lone Wolf frame, as I feel it looks the best on it. However, function wise, it worked flawlessly on all 4 frames. It fit the tightest on the most recently built P80 frame, but still functioned fine. I’ve used the current setup in a pistol match and really liked the way it handled. As previously mentioned, the slide serrations work very well for manipulations. The Liberty has stayed where it’s supposed to also, probably a testament to the mounting pins that help secure the sight from moving. The Liteslide is really nice, especially if you're looking to add an optic to your pistol.

  Strike Industries Liteslide would be a great addition for anyone looking at a Glock 19 slide. This could be a builder or just someone wanting to add an optic to their pistol. It performed well for me, the machining is great, it’s heat treated for years of use, and it just looks great. If you’re in the market for anything like the Liteslide, go check out Strike Industries. They don’t just make Glock parts.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Gen 3 Glock slide with optic mounting options

Target Market:

80% builders or those upgrading their Gen 3 Glocks

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Stripped slide for Gen 3 pistol frames

  • Black Nitride coated

  • Front and rear serrations

  • Multi-cut optics mount

  • Cover Plate included

  • Various screws and pins for optics mounting

  • Standard cuts for Glock sights

  • Made from heat treated 17-4 Stainless Steel 

  • Weighs 9.8 ounces

  • Made in USA

  • RED DOT COMPATIBILITY: Trijicon RMR, Burris FastFire, C-More RTS/STS, Doctor Red Dot Sight, EOTech MRDS, Holosun 407/507/508, Leupold DeltaPoint, SIG SAUER ROMEO 01, Swampfox Optics Kingslayer/Liberty/Justice, Sightmark Mini Shot M-Spec FMS, Vortex Viper/Venom

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Flat Dark Earth (FDE)

What others are saying?:

5 stars on Optics Planet

awesome slide 

The Strike Industries Series Slide was created with optimal accuracy and performance in mind. Machined in the USA from billet 17-4 Stainless Steel using clockwork precision to ensure increased consistency in barrel lockup that results in levels beyond than match-grade accuracy. The Strike Slide weighs significantly less than the factory production model, reducing the recoil momentum, and allows faster and more efficient follow-up placement. Strike Industries proudly designed the Strike Slide with Durability and Function in mind, giving the slide a premium Black Nitride Coating that is protective against scratching and scrapes. We’ve also improved the silhouette with unmatched aggressive styling from the Angled Forward Serrations Points on the front and large

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found with any substance 

Price point:

MSRP = $249.95

Retail = $191.96 at Primary Arms

I need it now! Availability:

Strike Industries, Primary Arms, or various other places

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Fairly slim profile

  • Front & Rear cocking serrations

  • Multi use optics cut

  • Pins and screws included for optic mounting

  • Slide cover plate

  • Fantastic frame fit

  • Enclosed style

  • Made in USA

Cons:

  • Some rear sights are too long to work with an optic

  • Hard to find “in stock”

  • Cover plate is plastic

Score: 8.50 Great

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Favorite Link:  Primary Arms

,

Enoch Deep Six Chassis

,

  Enoch Industries is enhancing the Ruger 10/22 market with their chassis systems. They manufacture 2 different ones, the Odin and the Deep Six. Thanks to Faxon, and their rimfire barrel, I was looking for something that would compliment it. Odin offered up a Deep Six in PEWter. Since the Deep Six is longer and better suited for what I was doing, I couldn’t say “no”.

  The Deep Six is made for 10/22 style rifles and pistols, but not the take down versions. I used a stock Ruger 10/22 rifle action, but pretty much all of the aftermarket ones will work too. Mounting the barrelled action into the Deep Six is just like mounting it into any other 10/22 stock. The only difference is that Enoch supplies a proprietary screw to hold the action in place. This screw is essentially just a short version of the stock 10/22 mounting screw. I put some threadlocker on it before I screwed it down tight. After tightening the screw, you can actually feel how much more rigid the chassis is over a stock. It’s just a real solid fit, and that screw comes up tight unlike the factory style. 

  Enoch Industries has made the Deep Six longer than their first chassis, the Odin. It is still short enough for pistol length builds, but I feel it really shines for the more standard rifle length builds. The total length is 15.5 inches. This doesn’t really say much, since that is without any support device attached to the rear rail. What does matter is the 2.5” added length to the forearm over their Odin chassis. This allows for a forearm length of just over 7 inches. Plenty enough to get a good grip on the rifle, as well as maybe install a bi-pod or grip panels. Along the forearm are 3 full length M-Lok slots to aid in adding those accessories. The slots are on both sides as well as the bottom. The Deep Six also allows for almost any barrel profile or barrel addition one might be after. They opened up the forearm to accept barrel diameters of up to 1.310 inches. This means that any bull barrel will fit. Or, if you have a really short barrel and want to run a suppressor, the suppressor will most likely fit in the handguard area!

  Besides being a lightweight aluminum chassis, Enoch added a few bonuses into the Deep Six. The first notable one, is the addition of 2 steel QD inserts. One on each side, on the rear of the chassis, behind where the receiver sits. These work really well for pistol configurations, as a sling can give you some extra support when shooting. For a rifle, they just give you another location for sling mounting. Second, is the addition of a built in filler, behind the trigger guard and extended to the pistol grip. It fills that gap so your hand doesn't get pinched. Not all 10/22 chassis’, that use pistol grips, have this. It really does help and it makes the chassis look complete.

  Yes, you will need to add your own pistol grip to the Deep Six. All non-beavertail grips will work. If you want to use a beavertail grip, it may have to be modified. I modified a beavertail grip for use on it, I just cut the beavertail back some and it works great. I even tried some 3D printed ones that worked too.

  As for mounting a stock or brace, the Deep Six has you covered. The Deep Six uses a 3 slot picatinny rail for mounting these. This type of mounting system is becoming more and more popular, especially on 22’s. With the picatinny rail, the user has many options, from fixed stocks to folding braces. Being that I was doing a “rifle”, I opted for a fixed stock from Occam Defense. This stock is a little shorter than some other options, which actually makes it ideal for me on this chassis. It makes the length of pull a little under 12 inches. The Occam stock uses a 4 slot mounting, so there was a little extra sitting above the 3 slot rail on the Deep Six. Besides looking odd to me, it fit and worked great. I did end up printing a spacer to fill the space and make it look seamless. 

  The Deep Six is a well thought out chassis. The PEWter color has a nice grayish hue to it, which enhances the other parts installed on the rifle. The edges are smoothed out, but still sharp. The fit of the action is much better than most other stocks out there. So as you can guess, the machining is top notch with no noticeable machining marks. There is also an Enoch Industries logo machined onto the left side of the chassis. No names, just the logo. Along with that, there are also machined recesses that give the chassis a distinct look. 

  Enoch Industries did a great job with the Deep Six. It’s short enough to be used on a pistol, yet long enough to look good on a full length rifle. The combination I am running turned out fantastic. When using the Deep Six, you can pretty much build any 10/22 your imagination can come up with. I really do like what Enoch has done with the Deep Six. Definitely check out Enoch Industries and the Deep Six chassis. I really can’t say enough good things about it.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Lightweight chassis system for Ruger 10/22 style actions

Target Market:

10/22 Builders or modifiers

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Weighs 13 ounces

  • Length: 15.25”

  • Width: 1.5"

  • Height: 1.5"

  • 6061-T6 Aluminum construction

  • 3 full M-Lok slots at 3, 6, and 9 O'clock

  • Barrel Channel is 1.310”

  • 3 slot Picatinny rail at rear for stock or brace installation

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Black

Link to other reviews:

Industry Outsider

Price point:

MSRP = $245.00

Retail = $210.00 - $245.00

I need it now! Availability:

Enoch Industries

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Lightweight

  • M-Lok slots

  • Steel QD cups

  • Large barrel channel

Cons:

  • I would like the rear picatinny rail to have another slot

  • Availability 

Score: 8.50 Great

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,

EDC Knife comparison

,

  If there’s one thing I’m not, it’s a knife expert. Steel type, brands, grip material, I don’t know what I’m looking at or what is quality. So the only metric I have is in my personal use. 

  Recently I embarked on a journey to find a new EDC knife and it was time to upgrade from whatever caught my eye at the local Walmart. So I took a look at my life and decided on some basic features I “need” in an everyday knife. Remember, these are what I want in a knife, your preferences or needs can vary wildly. 

  One, the knife has to be a worker. I’m not that guy who carries several knives for different things, I want one knife, that will accomplish the tasks I find myself needing to do throughout my day. Anything with a point can be forced into a defensive role, that’s not the purpose of my edc knife. 

  Two, the knife has to have a partially serrated blade. I don’t know much about knife steel and what holds an edge, or what gets sharper better, but I do know, when the knife gets dull, serrations still cut. I do not, however, want a fully serrated blade as that makes it a saw. 

  Three, it needs to be a folder with a secure locking blade and decent guard. Fixed blades are cool but my edc knife needs to fold. It also doesn’t need to fold unless I want it to, and I don’t want my hand or fingers contacting the blade in any way, inadvertently. 

  Four, the knife needs to double as a rescue tool, with at bare minimum, a window breaker and stand alone strap cutter. Both need to be usable with the blade closed. 

  Wanting to keep the price in the $50-$100 range, I found four that interested me, all with slightly different designs and features. So I got them, and carried/used them, all for at least two weeks each. The four I settled on were: CRKT M16-14ZLEK, Gerber Hinderer CLS, Kershaw Funxion EMT, and the SOG Escape. So I’ll go over each one in no particular order and explain what I like and dislike about them all. 

  CRKT: The biggest of the four, coming in at 9.25” overall and a beefy 6.2 oz, is the M16-14ZLEK. The CRKT boasts it uses an “InterFrame construction, with tough, textured glass filled nylon scales over a 420J2 stainless steel liner, InterFrame and solid glass filled nylon back spacers.” This thing is a beast. With a 3.75” AUS8 high carbon stainless steel, titanium nitride finished, tanto blade, and is very capable of handling all the abuse I threw at it. The strap cutter is on the very generous blade guard, and the tungsten carbide glass breaker is sufficient. The pocket clip can be configured in left or right side tip up or tip down (CRKT says it’s not designed for pocket tip up carry, it’s for gear webbing only). While it’s not my favorite clip, it works well enough. I prefer tip up, left side, so that’s how I have it. The knife cuts, pries, stabs, etc., anything I need to do just fine. They do make this knife in smaller sizes but you lose the tanto blade or the four position clip.

Pros: 

Tanto point, hefty blade guard, four position clip, liner lock with a secondary lock

Cons: 

too large for some pockets, clip could be sturdier, no additional cool features like some of the others. 

MSRP - $99

Street price - $60-$70

CRKT Score: 8.00 Great

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Gerber: the Hinderer CLS is the sequel to the rescue model. Scrapping the blunt full serrated blade for a clip point, partially serrated blade, this knife comes in at 8.5” overall and 5.6 oz. The 3.5” 440a steel blade sports a black finish. The glass filled nylon handle has good texture and it is pretty comfortable, with and without gloves. The window breaker also has a lanyard hole (that I should have utilized but more on that later) and the strap cutter swings out from the butt end of the knife. Hope you like right side tip down carry, because that’s the only configuration for the pocket clip. It also sports an O2 wrench in the handle that can be used with the blade closed and it comes in quite handy if you have that need. The knife felt sturdy, and while it is a liner lock, the release mechanism is a pull stud on the handle that makes closing this knife with gloves much easier. The blade guard is ok, definitely could be a bit more pronounced but it works. I really appreciate this strap cutter on this knife and found it to be great at everything from clothing to zip ties. Probably my favorite design of the 4, however it was a bit stiff at first and the detent had to be worked in a bit. My biggest problem with this knife, is that I no longer have it, because a random tree branch or vine took it one afternoon in the woods, in other words, the pocket clip is lacking. 

Pros: 

Great size and weight, strap cutter, locking release, grip texture 

Cons:

Blade guard, pocket clip, thumb stud only 

MSRP - $76

Street price - $60-70

Gerber Score: 7.50 Good

  SOG: The only lockback style knife of the bunch, this one comes in at 8.2” OAL and 4.8oz. A lockback is not my favorite style,. I was willing to overlook that, as the knife was overall quality. While SOG says this is a clip point, it’s more of a spear point. The stand alone strap cutter has spare blades stored in the knife handle, which is super cool if you ask me. I do not like the glass breaker, as it very small and sharp, like needle sharp. This knife also sports several holes in the grip that, when the blade is closed, work as wire strippers. I can’t comment on how well it works because I don’t strip wire on a regular bases, but if that’s your thing, it’s a nice added bonus.  The satin blades finish on the 9cr18mov blade looks nice, and is a nice departure from the black on black that the other three have. Being the only one of this bunch with a 6061t6 aluminum handle, the grip isn’t bad, and the texture is ok. Again, hope you’re like right side tip down carry because the clip is fixed in that position. It’s a good solid clip, when it isn’t loosening up. The blade opens by thumb stud only and the hand guard leaves quite a bit to be desired. 

Pros:

Replaceable strap cutter. 

Cons:

Lockback, lack of blade guard

MSRP - $49

Street price - $40-$45

SOG Score: 6.50 Okay

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Kershaw: The only knife in this article sporting assisted opening, and a built in carabiner. The EMT comes in at 7.25” and 4.8 oz. It’s the thickest knife of the bunch at almost 3/4” wide, this one falls into the “meh” category for me. On paper it looks great, but I can’t say I was extremely impressed overall, but it’s still a decent blade if you want a budget knife, and assisted opening is important to you. The strap cutter feels flimsy, but I had no issues with it, and it cut anything I needed it to. It swings out from the back and has a 1/4” wrench and bottle opener on it. While the bottle opener works, my job frowns upon me using it at work and, at home, I have dedicated bottle openers. I found no use for the 1/4” wrench and feel this would be better served by an O2 wrench. The glass breaker is fine, but it’s on the blade end instead of the butt end, which I found strange. The carabiner, when deployed, locks the blade closed and will not allow you to open the knife until you have closed the carabiner. While I understand why I wish it would lock the blade open for my use case. It is a flipper style, so that’s nice, and the flipper doubles as a beefy hand guard. The grip is glass filled nylon and it is a tad slippery, and the Kershaw “K” grip pattern isn’t the best. The 3” 8cr13mov blade is listed by Kershaw as a drop point, but it looks and feels more like a clip point to me. This knife is thick. like too thick to be carried comfortably in my back pocket. The pocket clip allows for pretty deep carry, and is right side tip down only once again. Final thoughts on this knife: it feels cheap, it’s hard to explain. 

Pros:

Carabiner, hand guard, flipper assisted opening. 

Cons:

Thick, glass breaker isn’t intuitive, lock on the strap cutter feels weak 

MSRP - $58

Street price - $32-$50

Kershaw Score: 5.50 Mediocre 

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So what does all this mean? Well hopefully this can help you pick out an EDC knife, if rescue type knives are your thing. I would have no problem carrying any of these blades in different contexts, except maybe the Kershaw, but in all reality, it will probably find its way into my gear for something. 

My order from favorite to least favorite 

CRKT m16-14zlek

Gerber hinderer CLS

SOG escape 

Kershaw funxion EMT


I will be replacing the Gerber most likely, but I wish they’d update the clip. What I would really like (in case there is a knife maker reading) is the blade and the clip placement options from the CRKT, the glass breaker, size, weight, and O2 wrench from the Gerber, the assisted opening from the kershaw, the clip from the SOG. All these knives have attributes I like. 

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS - 8 KEY POINTS

CLAIM TO FAME: 

Rescue style knives 

TARGET MARKET: 

First responders 

FNBS (FEATURES & BENEFITS OF THIS PRODUCT): 

See individual write ups above 

 

WHAT OTHER AESTHETIC OPTIONS OR FINISHES ARE AVAILABLE? 

See above 

What others are saying:

Not much 

Price point:

$ 35-100 listed above 

I need it now availability: 

Amazon, bladeHQ, or the manufacture websites 

Our Rating:

     Pros: see above 

     Cons: see above 

Score:

See above 



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Faxon 10/22 barrel

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  Faxon Firearms has been making quality barrels for some time now. They recently entered into the rimfire barrel market with their 10/22 barrels. Faxon has three different barrel contours to choose from as well as two types of fluting options. There are also three different coating options to choose from. I opted for the flame fluted standard profile in chameleon PVD.

  The Faxon 10/22 barrel has a bunch of features not provided on the factory Ruger model. Most notably is probably the addition of Flame fluting. Faxon does a unique style of fluting as one of the options. As one can guess, the fluting looks like “flames”. If you get the “Chameleon” PVD coated barrel, the flutes are actually a different color than the rest of the barrel, which actually makes the flames look a bit more realistic. Since the barrel is PVD coated, the look of the coating will vary from barrel to barrel. This particular one is more of a lavender to blue fade with the flutes being a yellowish orange color. Some are more a blue to green fade. Fluting, both standard and Flame, provides better cooling of the barrel by providing more surface area for the barrel to give off heat. More important to me, is that on a rimfire barrel, it reduces the overall weight. In this case, the Faxon barrel is 0.4 lbs lighter than a factory Ruger 10/22 barrel. Faxon’s pencil profile reduces the weight by another 0.4 lbs, so a 0.8 lb reduction total. The Chameleon barrel sent to me weighs 1.4 lbs total.

  When manufacturing the rimfire line, Faxon uses all the same quality materials they use in their other barrel lines. The Rimfire barrels are made from 416-R stainless steel bar stock, in Cincinnati, OH at the Faxon plant. The barrel is given 6 groove rifling with a twist rate of 1:16. The 1:16 is pretty standard for 22 rimfire barrels. They then cut a recessed target crown into the muzzle. The muzzle is also threaded ½-28” to a depth of 0.625”. A thread protector and spacer is also included. The spacer is to be used on muzzle devices that use the 0.400” depth instead of the 0.625” depth. Faxon rimfire barrels are also magnetic particle inspected for flaws and then heat treated and coated. Currently all of the Faxon Rimfire line barrels come in a 16” length.

  When looking into 10/22 barrels, one typically finds “bull” style barrels. Faxon has those now too. But the standard profile is really nice if you're not into those “heavy” barrels. The Faxon Rimfire barrel has a tapered profile. It goes from 0.912” after the chamber down to 0.600” before where the muzzle threads start. This is pretty close to the Ruger’s standard barrel profile. The Faxon does fit in my standard 10/22 stock. It may not fit all of them, but it fits mine fine. Faxon also gives the Rimfire line a “Sporting” chamber. This gives the Faxon 10/22 barrels the ability to feed almost all the .22lr ammunition out there. I personally would have liked to see a slightly different chamber used, something like a “Bentz” for a little better accuracy. But I understand why Faxon went with the normal “sporting” chamber. 

  I ended up mounting the Faxon barrel to a stock Ruger 10/22 action. The barrel fit about the same as the stock barrel I removed. Meaning it slid into the receiver easily with little side to side movement. I then proceeded to mount it in an Enoch Deep-Six chassis. I opted for a chassis because I felt that a regular stock would not do the Faxon Chameleon barrel justice. The barrel looks really good mounted in the chassis. The chassis is also lighter than some wooden stocks, making this barrel/chassis combination very light. 

  After essentially making a complete different 10/22 than I had started with, I headed out to the range. Since ammunition availability is scarce, I rummaged through my stores of .22lr ammo. I found around 8 different types of plinking ammo, but no match ammo. I figured plinking ammo would be fine for this test. Especially since I don’t consider the Faxon barrel to be a true match barrel. Yes, the barrel is very high quality, it just doesn’t have a match chamber. I shot the various “cheap” 22lr ammo, through the barrel, at 50 yards. All but one of the major brands seemed to group around 1 - 1.5”’s at the 50 yard mark. I started with 5 shot groups and then moved to 10 shot groups. I was really pleased with how well the Faxon barrel shot. My factory barrel shot around 2 - 3” groups with these kinds of .22lr ammo. So as far as accuracy is concerned, I think the Faxon is good to go. If someone were to take the time and figure out which ammunition their barrel prefers, I would expect better results than what I had.

  If you’re looking for something different in the 10/22 game, look into the Faxon Rimfire barrels. They aren’t necessarily cheap, but they are excellent quality and made in the USA. With all the different options, you can get extra lightweight, fluted, flame fluted, coated, etc. I’m very pleased with the quality of the barrel along with how it stands out from everyone else's boring barrels. Go give the Faxon Rimfire line a look if you’re building a 10/22 or just looking for something different.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Lightweight 10/22 barrels

Target Market:

10/22 owners or builders wanting a lighter, more accurate barrel

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Chamber: .22 LR Sporting

  • Flame Fluted

  • 416-R Stainless

  • Weight: 1.4 lbs

  • Length: 16"

  • Twist rate: 1:16

  • Chameleon PVD coating

  • Rifling: 6 Groove

  • Target Crown: Recessed

  • 10/22, non-takedown

  • Taper - 0.912" after chamber, .600" before thread shoulder

  • Muzzle Thread: 1/2x28

  • Thread protector included

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Straight fluted, Pencil, Heavy, all in black, gold, or chameleon

What others are saying?:

 5 stars at Faxon Firearms

Great barrel

Barrel came in fast and well packed. Looks better in person. Fits like a glove no issues setting it. Shoots great but I only have 150 rounds through it so far.

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found

Price point:

MSRP = $175.00 - $355.00

Retail = $355.00 as tested

I need it now! Availability:

Faxon Firearms or your local Faxon dealer

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Lightweight

  • Looks great

  • Accurate

  • Threaded to 0.625 length 

  • Thread protector and spacer included

  • Fits standard 10/22 stocks

  • Lifetime guarantee

Cons:

  • Price

  • Sport chamber

Score: 7.50 Good

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, , , ,

ISOtunes Sport - Defy & Advance

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  ISOtunes has come on the market with hearing protection designed for the shooter under the ISOtunes Sport brand. ISOtunes has made industrial hearing protection for some time, but just recently introduced the Sport brand. There are currently two models to choose from, the Defy, and the Advance. They are both very similar in use. The Defy is your standard Over Ear (muff) style, while the Advance is an In-Ear style. 

  Both the Defy and Advance are packed with features. One of those is that they both have the “Tactical sound” control. The Tactical sound control is a separate volume control for outside sound. ISOtunes Sport claims an increase in exterior sound up to 8x their normal volume. If you turn it up, it amplifies everything, including background noise. This can be a plus when listening to range commands, your friends, or while hunting. You can also turn it all the way down, which essentially cuts all exterior volume. Don’t worry, the Tactical sound control still reduces loud noises to a safe level, so as to not damage your hearing. When you power on the ISOtunes Sport’s the Tactical sound turns on to about half volume. One of my only complaints is that I wish they would remember the last volume setting when turned off. The high impact noise response time is listed at less than 2 milliseconds, so hearing damage is greatly, if not completely, reduced by the initial gun shot sound.

  Since we are talking about sound, both the Defy and Advance have bluetooth connectivity. As with most bluetooth, just pair it to your device and away you go. They do both have noise cancelling mic’s, so if you are on a phone call at the range, whoever you are talking with can hear you clearly. My daughter called me at the range one day while I had the Advance on. She said that she could hear me fine even with the occasional gun shots. So that part seems to work okay. With the bluetooth, you can also use the Advance or Defy to listen to your favorite podcast or music. However, the ISOtunes Sport line will cap the output volume to 85 db’s using their “SafeMax” technology. This is because 85 db’s is the safe volume limit for all day long exposure. If you are in an extremely loud environment, it can sometimes still be hard to hear whatever is playing through the bluetooth. The bluetooth controls are separate from the Tactical Sound controls, making it easier to know which volume you are adjusting. 

  Even though the Defy and Advance have similar features, there are some differences besides the obvious. The Advance in-ear is listed as a 26db NRR (noise reduction rating), but the Defy only comes in with a 25db NRR rating. Definitely not enough for me to tell the difference. Connection to a device, via bluetooth, varies by an hour with the lead going to the Defy at 11 hours and the Advance at 10 hours. When not connected to bluetooth, the times can jump up a couple of hours. The Defy has the option of using 3 AAA batteries instead of the supplied rechargeable. This increases the use time to 22 hours. It also gives the Defy an option if the rechargeable battery dies when using them in the field. The Advance, being an in-ear, does not have this luxury. Both have auto off functions also. The Advance’s is 2 hrs of non use, while the Defy is 4 hrs. Both are resistant to dust and water. Since the Defy and Advance are different styles, there is definitely going to be a weight difference. The Defy (over ear) comes in at 15.5 ounces, while the Advance (in-ear) comes in at 23.25 grams, or just under an ounce. The Defy and Advance come with a usb charging cord. While the Advance also comes with 4 sizes of eartips and one set of triple flange style to use when you’re not worried about sound suppression. The Advance also comes with a zippered carrying case. 

   After using the ISOtunes Sport’s for a while, I’ve concluded that both are really good at what they do. The Tactical Sound works great and lets me hear range commands and friends clearly. It also does a decent job of not amplifying wind. Not perfect, but better than some hearing protection I’ve used, at least as far as wind noise is concerned.  I simply love the Advance, as they give me lightweight in-ear protection. The Advance allows me to use rifles and shotguns without causing any problems with a cheek weld. Plus they are not hot like over the ear ones can be. I also use the bluetooth, on the Advance, daily while at work. They are fantastic for this. If you work in a loud industrial environment, they are even better. The Advance is my newest favorite hearing protection. The Defy, however, is not far behind the Advance. It has its own advantages. They are very comfortable for over the ear hearing protection. They have the option of running AAA batteries. The top strap has a slot for heat management, or more importantly, so the button on your hat doesn’t push against your head. The cushions are also very soft and comfortable. The Defy will also open up extremely wide, so if you have an extremely large brain capsule, these might work well for you. I like the Defy if I’m just shooting pistols, or when it’s cooler outside. 

  If you’re looking into some new hearing protection, I wouldn’t hesitate to check out the ISOtunes Sport line. Both have great useful features. My favorite would be the Advance, but the Defy are really good also. Anytime you can get decent hearing protection, with decent rechargeable battery life, I’m all for it. Go check out the Defy and Advance at ISOtune Sport, you’ll probably like what you see. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Hearing protection with bluetooth

Target Market:

Shooters, Hunters, or anyone needing hearing protection

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Tactical sound control

  • 25 to 26 db noise reduction

  • 23.25 grams for the Advance

  • 15.5 ounces for the Defy

  • Rechargeable for 10-11 hrs of Bluetooth connection

  • Noise Isolation Mic

  • Bluetooth audio output limited to 85db

  • 2 hour auto off (Advance) 

  • 4 hour auto off (Defy) 

  • Dust, water, and sweat resistant

  • Micro USB charging port

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

In Ear (Advance) and Over ear style (Defy)

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars on Amazon

Does the job

These rock! I am a firearms instructor for my local LE Agency. These guys seem a little awkward at first as fas as getting them to fit correctly. But once I found the earplugs that fit the best... they do exactly what they were intended to do.

I completely charged them as the directions stated and the next day I set out to the range and spent 5 hours wearing them. I had no issues with short battery life as some would expect. It connects with my iphone and plays music at a safe level while still being able to hear voices.

As soon as we started shooting, they did their job. I did have some issues with the ear foam not fitting well.

My only complaint is that I wish there was a size between the smallest ear foam and the medium ear foam. The medium was just a bit big, but it would be impossible the have a foam to fit EVERY SINGLE EAR.

That being said, I would still purchase 100% and have already recommended it to my LEO buddies.

Link to other reviews:

Wide Open Spaces

Price point:

MSRP = $129.99 for either option

Retail = $129.99 on Amazon

I need it now! Availability:

ISOtunes or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Lightweight

  • Bluetooth

  • Tactical Sound Control with separate controls

  • Rechargeable

  • Long battery life

  • Both are comfortable

  • AAA option with the Defy

  • 4 different earpieces for the Advance

Cons:

  • Doesn’t remember volume level of the “Tactical Sound”

  • 85db sound limit (sometimes I like to hear it loud)

Score: 8.50 Great

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Favorite Link:  Walker Defense Research

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Civivi Brazen

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  I had heard good things about Civivi knives, which brings us here. Civivi is We Knife’s “budget” friendly knife manufacturer. We Knife makes some beautiful knives, but we aren’t talking about those. We are talking about the Civivi Brazen. The Brazen is a flipper style EDC (everyday carry) knife.

  The Brazen has many of the features one might want in an everyday carry knife. The flipper stands out in this category. It makes the knife open with ease. Just slightly push down, or flip the little tab rearward, and the blade opens super smoothly. If a flipper isn’t your thing, the Brazen also has dual thumb studs for opening the blade. The thumb studs work just as well, but I prefer the flipper. Civivi uses a stainless steel liner lock in the Brazen. The liner lock holds the blade from closing. It’s a little thinner than I personally like, but it locks up well, so not a concern. Side to side blade movement is also virtually nothing. either with the blade open or closed.

  For an EDC knife, the Brazen’s specifications are pretty standard. The blade is a “drop point” style. Which is 3.46” long. Closed, the knife is 4.52” long. It’s pretty slim at 0.47” without measuring the pocket clip. It weighs in at 3.76 ounces which seems perfect, since it is not too light to forget you are carrying it. The Brazen uses finely textured G10 handles, which I found to give a good grip when dry and a little slick when soaking wet. There is also a lanyard slot at the rear of the handle, if a lanyard is your thing. The Brazen also has a deep pocket clip. The clip is reversible for left or right, but only for tip up carry. I liked the clip, it’s nothing fancy, but it clips well. I tend to catch cheap clips on stuff and bend them, the Brazen’s clip has not bent on me!

  Civivi has brought a lot of great extra features to the table with the Brazen as well. My favorite is the caged ceramic ball bearing on the blade pivot. These bearings make opening and closing the knife super smooth. They also aid in how well the flipper functions. The stonewashed blade is made from 14C28N steel. From the steel manufacturers website - “Sandvik 14C28N is the latest development in Sandvik's range of knife steels. Optimized chemistry provides a top grade knife steel with a unique combination of excellent edge performance, high hardness and good corrosion resistance.” I found the 14C28N to be a really good choice for this knife. The edge stayed sharp for a long time. Most of that was cutting up boxes. In fact I just sharpened it before this review. It wasn’t dull by any means, it just needed to be touched up a little. Civivi hardens the steel to 58-60 HRC, which seems to work out for me. I haven’t broken the tip off the blade, which says a lot. Speaking of the blade, Civivi also put some useful jimping in places. The first noticeable jimping is on the top and front of the flipper tab. Next is on the spine of the knife, just in front of the handle. All the jimping is very well thought out and actually gives the user a better grip and feel to the knife.

  Usually when you buy a “budget” knife, it comes in a box, and only a box. Civivi stepped it up once again, and supplied a soft case with the Brazen. I think most, if not all of the Civivi knives, come with this. In the case are the instruction, a sticker, and a fairly decent “Civivi” branded cleaning cloth. Not that the soft case and cleaning cloth are needed, but I did think it was a good bonus. 

  I’ve carried the Brazen since the day it arrived here. I am going to keep carrying the Brazen. Hopefully that tells you what kind of knife I think it is. For a $50 pocket knife, I feel you get more than what you pay for. From the super smooth opening to the sharp blade, I don’t think you can go wrong with the Brazen as an EDC knife. Definitely go check out the Brazen, or any of the other Civivi’s. I was not disappointed.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quality EDC folding knife

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a quality folding knife under $50

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Overall Length: 7.98" / 202.7mm

  • Blade Length: 3.46" / 88mm

  • Closed Length: 4.52" / 114.7mm

  • Blade Thickness: 0.12" / 3mm

  • Handle Thickness: 0.47" / 12mm

  • Weight: 3.76oz / 106.7g

  • Blade Material: 14C28N

  • Blade Hardness: 58-60HRC

  • G10 Handles

  • Stainless Steel Liner

  • Tip up, Left or Right, deep pocket clip

  • Pivot: Caged Ceramic Ball Bearing

  • Made in China

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Different blade steels, shapes, and handle colors

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars on Amazon

 Smooooth!

No blade play. Stupid sharp. Very fast. Love the tip up. A bit bigger IRL found it to be a bit overkill size but legal in MN. It's just as fast as assisted opening knives without a safety. I didn't buy it in black to seem less tactical and scary to women but honestly I got an odd look for using it on the packaging I carry it for. Only downside is I'm not a fan of CCP China. All things considered it's no Chinese knockoff and is in the realm of Benchmade or higher end SOG's I've carried. Overall really happy, no lie it's build quality rivals Benchmade Barrage, Griptilian, and Sog Trident all day long.

Link to other reviews:

Neeves Knives on YoutTube

Price point:

MSRP = $58.60

Retail = $49.80 on Amazon

I need it now! Availability:

Civivi or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Super smooth operation

  • Flipper works great

  • Sharp

  • Thumb studs

  • Deep carry clip

Cons:

  • Liner lock is a little thin

  • No semi-serrated option

Score: 8.50 Great

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Favorite Link:  LA Police Gear

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Primary Arms GLX 2x prism w/ACSS Gemini 9mm reticle

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  When Primary Arms offered to send their new GLx 2x prism sight out for review, I jumped at the chance. I had been looking for something to put on my 16” pistol caliber carbine, and this sounded perfect, especially since it was specifically designed for a 9mm PCC. This prism scope uses Primary Arms’ popular ACSS reticle with daylight bright illumination. The GLx prism is something different, that works quite well.

 The GLx 2x prism has numerous features. All of which make it a great optic. The first is the ACSS Gemini reticle. This reticle was designed for the 9mm Luger cartridge in a pistol caliber carbine. The simple explanation of the ACSS reticle is that it’s an upside down horseshoe shaped circle with a center triangle aiming point. It also has ballistic drop compensation (BDC) built into the reticle. Below the reticle is a target ranging ladder. The horseshoe also acts as an 8.6 mph lead when shooting moving targets. I do wish the reticle had some sort of hash marks, on the horseshoe, to keep it lined up with the aiming point, when leading a target. The bullet drops and ranging are best described by Primary Arms’ diagrams. Sighting adjustments are done with capped turrets. Once unscrewed, the caps can be turned over to adjust the windage and elevation in 0.25” MOA increments.

  Primary Arms uses multi coated low dispersion glass in the GLx. This glass gives the optic great clarity. I found that the view through the GLx is super bright and clear. The etched reticle is also very clear and defined. This is probably due to an adjustable diopter for getting the reticle perfectly clear and adjusted to your eyes. Because the GLx is a prism sight, there is eye relief. Primary Arms states the optimal eye relief is 3.7” from the optic. I found that the GLx is very forgiving in the eye relief department. I get a good sight picture with my eye only an inch away and all the way out at around 6 inches of eye relief. The reticle is still very clear and usable at both extremes.

  The GLx’s illuminated reticle has 11 brightness settings. The first 3 can be used with night vision devices. The highest 2 are what is called “daylight bright”, and are bright enough to be used in bright sunlight. Yes, the reticle shines a bright red, even in direct sunlight. However only the horseshoe and aiming triangle are illuminated. The BDC and ranging portions are not. Because of the nature of prism sights, if you have an astigmatism, the illumination will not “starburst” out like a normal red dot will. My only complaint about the illumination is the adjustment dial, the detent clicks are mushy feeling and not crisp at all.

  Battery life can be a concern for some people. Primary Arms gave the GLx what they call “AUTOLIVE” motion sensing technology. This greatly improves battery life from the single CR2032 battery. How you might ask? Well, it automatically shuts off the illumination after 3 minutes of inactivity and turns it back on when motion is detected. They say this gives a battery life of approximately 20,000 hours on the medium settings. The Autolive works extremely well. Everytime I pick up the rifle, the reticle is on. I tested the off function also, and it does turn the reticle off after around 3 minutes of sitting idle on a bench. I have left the reticle turned on for most of its life here, without any problems. Plus, if the battery does go dead, the GLx still has an etched reticle for you to use.

  Some people might wonder why the GLx prism comes in a fixed 2 power. The fixed 2x gives a little better target identification. But it also still gives the shooter an option to shoot with both eyes open. It barely took me any time to get used to it. I found the GLx to be just as quick, transitioning from target to target, as my previously mounted red dot. Having twice the magnification, plus the ACSS reticle, made the longer shots easier also. I was consistently hitting a 12” steel plate at 200 yards using the BDC portion of the reticle. For close targets, I just put the triangle on the target and pressed the trigger. If you want more precision, on close targets, one can use the top point of the triangle. 

  The GLx sight comes with all the mounting hardware needed. For one, it comes with three spacers to get the correct optic height for your carbine. It also uses standard mini ACOG bases, so if you don’t like the supplied mounting options, you can choose someone else's mount. Primary Arms also supplies various screws for the mounting of the spacers and for other styles of mounts. A little tube of Vibra-Tite (thread locker), wrenches, and a cleaning cloth are also included.

  I wouldn’t consider the GLx 2x prism to be on the large size for this type of optic. It leans toward the smaller side, but still larger than most of the red dots of today. The GLx is not a red dot, but I am using them as a comparison for size. Total length comes in at 5.3 inches. The total width is 2.3” inches because of the battery and brightness adjustment. Otherwise the tube is about 1.5 inches in diameter. Total height without any spacers is roughly 2 inches. It does weigh 11 ounces, so about twice what their 1x micro prism weighs, but the same as some other 1x prism sights. I thought the size and weight were about right for all the features the GLx has to offer.

  The Primary Arms GLx 2x prism works very well for its intended purpose on a 9mm PCC. I really like the AUTOLIVE feature. The 2x is a good all around magnification for a 9mm rifle. The ACSS reticle is clear, easy to use, and packed with features. I would definitely check out Primary Arms’ optic line. They did a very good job on the GLx with the Gemini reticle.


Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

2x prism optic with horseshoe style ACSS Gemini reticle

Target Market:

PCC shooters that want something more than a red dot

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • ACSS etched reticle

  • 2x fixed power

  • 11 brightness settings

  • Night Vision setting

  • Daylight bright red illumination 

  • AutoLive motion activation

  • 20,000 hr battery life

  • Uses 1 CR 2032 battery

  • 5.3” long

  • Weight - 11.0 ounces

  • 3.7” optimal eye relief

  • 0.25 MOA adjustments

  • FOV - 42ft @ 100yds

  • Low, Med., & High spacers included

  • Mini ACOG mounting interface

  • IP67 waterproof - 1 meter for 30 minutes

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

5.56/.308/5.45 BDC, 7.62x39/300 BO BDC, 

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars @ primaryarms.com

SHOCKINGLY AMAZING OPTIC

For a CZ Scorpion, this optic is perfect. As a member of the old eyes club, if its not a Prism sight, I can't see as clear as I need to, so red dots are off the table. I have tried many red dots, and they have a snowflake image when I look through them and they are 1X, so a 2X is much better for my needs. This optic is extremely clear. This is not quite a Trijicon, but at 1/3rd the price and with the ACSS Gemini 9mm Reticle, this is a fantastic optic, especially for PCC's. When they come out with a 3X GLX, I will buy it too.

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found on the 9mm version

Price point:

MSRP = $369.99

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • AutoLive activation

  • Battery life

  • Clear optics

  • Etched reticle

  • ACSS reticle

Cons:

  • Brightness knob detents are mushy

  • Has Eye Relief, unlike a red dot

  • Weight

Score: 8.00 Great

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Primary Arms is a sponsor of the Gun and Gear review podcast. This has no bearing on the review. It was rated on its merits and not the sponsorship.

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The Classic Ruger Security 6

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By Rusty Odom

The Ruger Security 6

The Ruger Security Six has a long lasting place in my mind, it was the first magnum revolver I ever fired and probably what sent me on the path of firearms in general. My father carried a Security 6 for as long as I can remember. His was a 6” barrel version, he loved it. After his day of shooting I always got to clean it, this is where I learned how to take it down all the way to the frame. The coolest part was I didn't need any tools to do it and I got to tactically fondle the revolver. 

So now to present time, I was at a local gun store/pawn shop looking around to see what was laying around when I went to the end of the counter, and there it was, a four inch version of my Dad’s gun. It was glowing from under the scratched finger print covered glass counter. I stood there patiently waiting until it was my time to be served. When I got it out the first thing I noticed was that it was sporting a pair of Pachmayr grips, the lock up was tight, the cylinder came right out with just the right amount of pressure after releasing the latch. It rotated smoothly and was concentric. The old gun had just a bit of holster wear on the barrel and the frame. No rust was noticed anywhere on it. The cylinder still had a lot of bluing on the business end and appeared to not have been fired a whole lot. 

Now it is history time for this line of Ruger revolvers. These are all double action revolvers, introduced in 1972 and ran until 1988. They were designed to be issued to law enforcement, military and personal defense. The Security 6 came in a variety of calibers, barrel lengths and two different finishes, blue and stainless. Barrel lengths ran 2,75”, 3”, 4” and 6”  Ruger made these in 38 S&W, 38 Special, 357 Magnum and 9mm Luger. They all had a 6 round cylinder and adjustable sights. These revolvers were medium sized and were designed to be a competitor to the Smith Model 19 and the Colt Trooper. Ruger essentially built a heavy duty large frame revolver in a medium size that weighed 33.6 ounces in the 4” model. The top strap of the Security 6 was thicker than that of the Smith, a larger cylinder and a barrel shank. They were able to design the lockup to be beefier and leave more metal to support the weaker parts of other guns. The best part of these guns were they didn't have side plates, Which made it stronger and to take it apart for service, no tools were needed. The hammer spring is a coil spring instead of the old leaf spring design. All of the barrels on the “6” were all bull barrels with a vent rib with Baughman front sight pinned in. The rear sights were adjustable. The Security 6 was the first revolver to incorporate the hammer transfer bar safety system. There were several spin offs of this revolver including the Speed Six and Service Six. If you didn't know by now this is the grandpappy of the modern GP 100 series of guns. 

The Security 6 was issued to a number of government agencies including the US Postal service, INS, and the Border Patrol. It rode in the classic basket weave holsters of hundreds of police departments across the nation, one reason was it was cheaper than its competitors and it was a tank. It could handle a steady diet of the heaviest 357 magnums without having to have parts replaced. 

With my “6” I went online and ordered an original pair of wood grips, bought a Triple K holster, and two speed loader pouches. I primarily carry mine when I am out in the woods and during deer and bear hunting season. I reload for it and I push a lot of heavy match grade hard cast bullets out of it as well as Buffalo Bore 180 grain out to 1400 fps. I wouldn't do this with a Smith, at all. It is an accurate handgun, it fits well in the hands. The wood grips do hurt a bit with the heavier loads but it is still controllable with a good grip. With practice 50 yard shots free hand on 6 inch steel plates is easy, and with a proper rest and practice 100 yard shots can be done. The latter should only be done with a lot of practice and the right conditions. 

For personal defense this gem will not let you down. A good holster, a thick belt and you should be good to go. There are so many different load choices for the 357 magnum and of course you can shoot 38 special for those that are recoil sensitive. If you are lucky enough to find one in 9mm or a 3” barrel model you will have found a rare jewel. So I guess what I am getting at is to not look over the used gun section of the gun stores. You might find your gem in the rough just sitting there.  Do not ever hesitate to use a revolver as a primary weapon, if you train with it. They will sling lead all day and will in my opinion might make you a better shooter because of the amount of ammo you have loaded and mastering the double action trigger pull.   

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Robust medium size revolver

Cheaper than competitors

Good history with law enforcement

Target Market:

First time gun buyers after the Covid panic buying

Range gun

Home defense gun

Handgun hunters

Wheel gun lovers

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Can handle a steady diet of high pressure magnum loads

  • Tool less takedown

  • Adjustable sights

  • Beefier cylinder

  • Full underlug barrel

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

38 SW, 3.8 Special, 9mm luger, 357 magnum

Stainless steel and blue

Various barrel sizes

Link to other reviews:

https://www.americanrifleman.org/content/a-look-back-at-the-ruger-security-six-revolver/

Price point:

No longer manufactures, but can be had from $275 and up

I need it now! Availability:

Check local gun stores, pawn shops and online retailers

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Pointability

  • Solid frame with no side plates

  • Stronger lock up

  • Tool less takedown

  • Adjustable sights

Cons:

  • A bit on the heavy side

  • Lack of holster options

  • Not made anymore

Score: 8.50 Great

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Freedom Wolf 80% frame

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  The 80% frame market is super hot right now. When Lone Wolf came out with their 80% Freedom Wolf frame, I definitely wanted to try building one up. Especially since I am a fan of their Timberwolf frames. The Freedom Wolf frame is noticeably different from other 80% kits on the market. 

  As with most 80% kits, the Freedom Wolf comes with the tools needed to make a complete stripped frame. These include: the “Stencil” or Jig as most call it, Drill bits, front and rear rails, rail caps, 2 backstraps, a magazine well, and adhesive. Yes, that last one is glue, don’t worry, it works way better than I imagined it would. Having a flat and curved backstrap is a pretty nice option in an 80% frame kit, as is the removable magwell.

  There are instructions online on how to machine/assemble the Freedom Wolf. So I’ll give the quicker run down. First, remove the piece of plastic where the locking block goes, just pull it out with pliers. Next remove the 2 tabs, where the locking block goes, with pliers. Then, VERY CAREFULLY, dremel the tabs down flush with the inside of the frame. This was probably the most tedious part for me to do. Now install the “Stencil” and put the whole thing in a vice. Drill the holes as stated. Now dremel out the dust cover pieces and the tabs in the recoil spring area. 

  Now that that part is done, we move onto the gluing of the rails. This is what seemed odd to me, but it worked out fine. There are 2 front rails and 2 rear rails, both with rail caps. The rear rail caps are left and right specific. Now get a small paint brush or 2, steal them from your kids, or go buy some. They will be unusable when finished. Paint some of the supplied adhesive on the rail pockets. Slide the rails into these pockets with the rail facing out. Then apply more adhesive to the outside of the rails, along with some on the rail caps. Push together firmly until the glue sets. Now wait 48 hours minimum before doing anything else with the frame. After that you can assemble the frame. You’ll need a parts kit with a locking block and a gen 4 magazine catch. The gluing is different, but it works well.

  I ordered one of the Lone Wolf parts kits for the Freedom Wolf. It’s just easier since it comes with all the correct parts for this frame. I installed the parts kit and put a gen 3 slide on the frame. Almost every time I would release the slide, the pistol would fire the striker. Or, if I slowly released the trigger, when it hit the reset, it would fire. Not good. I installed a different slide, which made it worse. The Lite Slide from Strike Industries seemed to work the best on this frame. I then tried a different disconnector, that helped a little. Next a different trigger bar. You get the idea. Finally I had figured out which parts worked and which didn’t. After hours, the pistol now functions correctly about 90% of the time. It appears that the rear rails on the Freedom Wolf frame sit up higher than they should. This causes the striker to not be held with as much surface area of the trigger bar. Causing it to fall off when the slide is released. If the trigger housing pin hole had been drilled off, by me, then the housing would set up higher, actually making this less of a problem. I did try to bend the rear rails down slightly, with no luck. But it did reinforce the fact that the adhesive is top notch stuff.

  Even with all of the problems I had, the pistol does shoot well. At least now that I got it to somewhat work properly. The frame is super comfortable. It is much smaller than the Polymer 80 or factory Glock frames. So people with smaller hands might like this better. Of the 4 slides I tried on the Freedom Wolf, all fit snug with very little play. 

  If you really want to challenge yourself building an 80% frame, the Freedom Wolf might be just the thing. I didn’t have good luck with the one they sent out for review. At least we know they didn’t hand pick it. I understand it’s an 80% frame, I was just hoping for something that worked better. Lone Wolf makes some awesome stuff. I love my Timber Wolf complete frame. The Freedom Wolf, not so much. So go check out some of the other great stuff Lone Wolf makes.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

80% compact Lone Wolf frame - “Glock 19” size

Target Market:

Anyone wanting to build their own pistol

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Accepts Gen3 or Gen4 G19/23/32/38 slides (via dust cover adapter)

  • Fits in standard Glock® 19 holsters

  • Extended beavertail designed to disperse recoil impulse

  • Ambidextrous reversible Gen4 style magazine catch

  • Undercut trigger guard for higher grip placement

  • No finger grooves

  • 2 back strap sizes

  • Removable magwell

  • Fixture, drills, glue, and slide rails are all included

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Nothing

What others are saying?:

3 Stars on MidwayUSA

needs a better jig

I bought this because of the slimmer grip and I wanted to see how the build process differed from that of the polymer80. the stencil as they call it, instead of jig, does in my opinion not hold the frame securely enough. as i drilled my holes I could see the frame rocking in the stencil. I can see now that the locking block pin hole is now more of an oval and when inserting a rod through the trigger pin hole I can see it is not at a 90 degree angle to the frame. the build quick. the whole process only took about 10 min. that is mostly due to that fact the you don't need to cut a channel for the guide rod and no cutting off the extra polymer from the rail area. all in all it turned out ok, but should have a better jig.

4 Stars on MidwayUSA

Nice frame, parts support is lacking

The good: I really like the ergonomics and feel of this frame. I really like how it goes together - it is more like an OEM Glock and less like a Polymer 80. I have 2 Polymer 80 pistols and I like this one better. I like the jig. I followed the instructions including use of a drill press and drill press clamp. It went great! I think it will be awesome once I finish it. The bad: I've finished my frame, but I have yet to complete it because I cannot get lower parts. First, the locking block is a special part from Lone Wolf, part number LWD-4361. They are backordered from Lone Wolf and I can't find them anywhere else. A Glock 19 OEM locking block won't fit without modifying the frame in addition to what the instructions say. I emailed Lone Wolf and recommended that I wait for their parts to be available, which might be a couple months. The mag release and trigger housing are Gen 4 parts, while the remaining parts are Gen 3. So, you can't buy a gen 3 parts kit and expect it to work. I am waiting for the backordered Lone Wolf parts kit that I ordered. Once parts are available, I think these will be the best 80 percent Glock lowers on the market.

Link to other reviews:

Nothing Found

Price point:

MSRP = $174.95

Retail = $149.95 at Brownells

I need it now! Availability:

Lone Wolf or Brownells

Our Rating: 

Pros:

  • Same size as their TimberWolf frame

  • Fits most Glock 19 holsters

  • Drill bits and Jig included

  • Comes with 2 size backstraps

  • Comes with oversized magwell

  • Gen 3 or 4 slide compatibility

Cons:

  • Not 100% Safe

  • Jig doesn’t fit well

  • Needs a drill press instead of a hand drill

  • Glue dries quickly during assembly

  • Waiting 48 hours for glue to fully cure

Score: 5.00 Mediocre

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Midwest Firearm Solutions X-wing Themed Cerakote

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  Usually when I think of Cerakote, I think camouflage, or something like that. Well, cerakote can be anything you can think of. Midwest Firearm Solutions is just one of those places that can make your cerakote dreams come true. I gave them the task of figuring out how to make an AR pistol look like an X-Wing from the Star Wars franchise. They managed to do it!

  If you are new to firearms coatings, I’ll try to give you a quick rundown. Cerakote is a thin film coating. Because of this, it lends itself well to firearms. It does this because it doesn’t build up like typical paints. This helps to keep all of the firearms parts working as they should. Another advantage of Cerakote is its chemical resistance. So gun cleaning solvents and such won’t cause it to melt off. It is abrasion and wear resistant. A good thing for moving firearm parts. Lastly, it adds a level of corrosion resistance that is better than most factory firearm finishes. Plus it looks cool.

  Midwest Firearm Solutions coated the entire AR pistol to look like a X-Wing fighter from Star Wars movies. They started with a Snow White base coat. Added on some Graphite Black to give the pistol a “blasted” look, typical of the X-Wings you might see. The top rail portion is Cerakoted NRA Blue and it matches the striping of the fighter well. There are some yellow accent colors on the “nose” of the forearm, as well as the buffer tube and magazine. These are in Corvette Yellow. The small parts of the AR, including the barrel, are coated in Gunmetal Gray. They also did some small “rebel” markings in Firehouse Red. When seen, side by side next to a X-Wing picture or model, you can definitely tell that Midwest Firearm Solutions did some stellar work!

 Being that the AR is cerakoted, I am sure the finish will hold up well. Even though I try to be gentle with this firearm, it has been used. So far, not even a minor scratch in the coating. If I do scratch it up, this design lends itself to not show imperfections because of the “blasted up” look.

  When doing patterns with spray on coatings, there can be some problems that arise. The most notable, to me, is seam lines. These happen where the pattern changes. Midwest Firearm Solutions does not have this problem. Their attention to detail provides beautiful, seamless, transitions between colors and patterns. The quality of the coated small parts is excellent also. The Gunmetal Gray, of the small parts and barrel, really stands out. This color gives it almost a sparkled industrial look. You really have to see it to understand.

   The X-Wing gun, as I call it, is really only for fun. Having firearms coated can be that way. Or you can go for something that is actually useful, like certain types of camouflage. Another option is just to restore an old firearm to like new standards. The days of only having one color are gone, unless that is what you are looking for. Midwest Firearm solutions can supply you with a fantastic coating. Either simple, or out of this world.

  Midwest Firearm Solutions is a top notch Cerakote applicator. This X-Wing gun turned out awesome. So good that I might need a themed pistol to go with it! MFS also does laser engraving along with tons of other stuff. Check out their website at https://www.midwestfirearmsolutions.com/ to see all the great stuff they have to offer.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Custom Cerakote coatings

Target Market:

Anyone wanting to change the look of their firearm

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Customer designs ideas are unlimited

  • Durable

  • Chemical resistant

  • Protects firearm from the elements

  • Various color options

  • Thin film - doesn’t build up and stop firearm from working

  • Cerakote trained and certified

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Pretty much anything you can imagine

What others are saying?:

From FaceBook

Tristan did a fantastic job with the cerakote for my slide. Wouldn’t go anywhere else for the quality, price, and friendliness!

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found, but lots of mini reviews at Cerakote.com

Price point:

MSRP = $600.00

Retail = Base rifle color - $225, Each additional color - $65 each, small parts are extra

I need it now! Availability:

Midwest Firearm Solutions

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Certified Cerakote applicator

  • Can do almost any idea you have

  • Looks amazing

  • Cerakote seams are almost not noticeable

Cons:

  • Cerakote jobs like this aren’t cheap

Score: 9.00 Amazing

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Favorite Link:  Axeon Optics

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Timney Alpha Competition Glock Trigger

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  Timney is well known for their rifle triggers, so when they first came out with the Alpha Competition Glock trigger, I was definitely intrigued. All the hype said it was similar to a single action, but with a Glock twist. Once I had it in hand, that description was pretty spot on. 

  Installation of the Alpha trigger is pretty straight forward. Everything needed comes in the box, as one would expect. If you are not comfortable with the trigger install, take it to a reputable gunsmith. A nice set of paper instructions is included. I like paper instructions. I can set them on the workbench to look at them, unlike on-line instructions. There are two differences in the trigger install over a standard style trigger. The first is the trigger receiver. This goes inside the pistol's trigger housing and locks in place with a screw. A different trigger return spring is also used. This is an “L” shaped spring that installs on the left side of the trigger. This style of spring also allows the trigger to fully reset forward, even if the striker has not been reset.

  Enough about the install, let’s get into the trigger itself. Say goodbye to the factory plastic trigger, the Timney Alpha is made from anodized aluminum. The trigger shoe is a flat face design and anodized black. It is also chamfered on each side of the face. This leads to a very comfortable feel of the trigger shoe. The slightly wider trigger safety, anodized in red, also has a unique feature. Besides sticking out a little more than some trigger safeties, it is slightly curved outward. Why? I am not sure, but it seems to not pinch my finger like a factory trigger does. Once depressed, it still sits flush with the trigger shoe. To also smooth everything out, it comes with a nickel teflon coated trigger bar and sear.

   The Timney Apha Competition trigger is the best feeling, Glock style, trigger I currently have. The trigger pull breaks at 3 lbs, consistently. And that’s with a “drop in” trigger. The initial take up is around 0.200”. This is adjustable through a set screw at the top of the trigger. I have it adjusted as far in as possible while still allowing the trigger safety to function properly. Then you come up against that wonderful wall. Which then takes around 0.100” to pull through. Then about 0.075” over travel, which is not adjustable. The reset is very tactile. No mushy resets with the Alpha Competition trigger. So the feel is - take up, wall, crisp clean trigger break, slight overtravel, reset. Since the striker is fully cocked back with the Timney trigger, that is why it has such a short trigger break. Essentially taking the “Safe Action” to a safe “single action”. 

  I have the Timney in a full size Polymer 80 with a compensator and red dot. Which is perfect for this competition trigger, I would not recommend this trigger for a duty or carry gun. But Timney specifically calls it a “Competition” trigger, and that is probably why. 

  This Alpha Competition trigger shoots and feels fantastic. When shooting the pistol, I don’t even notice the initial take up, it is that smooth. The 3lb pull and crisp break allow for fast accurate shot placement. The great reset allows me to get faster follow up shots and split times. The trigger is almost everything I want in a competition trigger. My only complaint would be that the initial take up is too long. Other than that, this thing is a great trigger upgrade for your “Glock” style pistol.

  Timney did a bang up job with the Alpha Competition Glock Trigger. They essentially made a drop in single action style trigger for competition use. The price is great at $150 for a drop in trigger system. It has great features and will probably make your pistol shoot great. I’m definitely going to recommend the Timney trigger to anyone who asks about a Glock competition trigger upgrade.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Complete 3 lb trigger system for Glock pistols

Target Market:

Competition shooters

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Teflon nickel (NP3) - trigger bar and sear (this process virtually eliminates friction, allowing for an extremely smooth feel) 

  • Crisp trigger break

  • Straight aluminum trigger with safety blade (anodized)

  • Uses all stock Glock parts and springs

  • COMPATIBLE WITH STOCK GLOCK PISTOLS.

  • FITS GEN 3: G17, G17L, G19, G22, G24, G23, G34, G35

  • GEN 4: G17, G19, G22, G23, G34, G35

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

For Gen 5 Glocks

What others are saying?:

5 Stars at Brownells

GREAT TRIGGER!

I just got this trigger in and put it in my G19, and it was good enough that I felt like I needed to get on here and write my first review. It breaks exactly at 3 pounds, and it feels way better than any of my other upgraded triggers. Very smooth and clean break. Install is a little different than the others, but it took me less than 5 minutes (they included tools). This trigger is definitely the way I'll be going for all my builds from now on. 100% recommend

Link to other reviews:

Tactical Considerations on Youtube

Price point:

MSRP = $149.99

Retail = $149.95 at Brownell’s or Primary Arms

I need it now! Availability:

Timney, Brownells, or Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Drop-in

  • Trigger pull weight of 3 lbs

  • Crisp trigger break

  • Great trigger reset

  • Price

  • Flat face trigger shoe

Cons:

  • Too much take up

  • No option for carry/duty gun

Score: 9.00 Amazing

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Favorite Link:  Matador Arms

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