Ryan Cross

SKD Tactical PIG Full Dexterity Tactical Alpha Gloves

In addition to eye and ear protection, hand protection is a good idea that many shooters overlook. Shooting gloves are considered more of an optional layer of protection, because their construction can be stifling to the user's dexterity and sensitivity... two things an effective marksman requires. Gun owners who train more aggressive with their firearms know the necessity of a good pair of gloves. Racking slides, ripping magazines from pouches, and gripping hot surfaces will make short work of bare skin.

Although gloves help prevent cuts, scrapes and other hand injuries, they suffer from an inherent paradox. The more robust and protective they are, the less dexterity the afford the user. Don't believe me? Try pulling a trigger with some welding gloves on! What good is protective equipment if it slows you down? When it comes to a 'tactical' shooting glove design, the challenge is balancing protection with flexibility. This is exactly what SKD tactical set out to accomplish with the Pig Full Dexterity Tactical Alpha Gloves.

The Pig FDT Alpha Glove uses several distinct features that give the user comfort and flexibility at the right anatomical places. They focus attention at the points most utilized by pistol/rifle/shotgun shooters: the index finger pad, the other fingers, and the palms. Starting at the trigger fingers, a thin material called Clarino™ is used to increase sensitivity greatly, which obviously aids in applying and releasing trigger pressure.

Not only that, but a synthetic suede is used to make the index finger and thumb conductive for the use touch screens. This is a huge benefit for those who take photos with their smart devices, or use apps for ballistic calculation, recording range data, or just texting your mom. Normally with other gloves, you'd have to shed the glove to do any of that. #instragram #pewpew

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As for the rest of the fingers, flexibility at the joints is crucial for a good grip, as well as manipulating fire controls, as well as working the action and reloading. Attention was given to every joint and knuckle so that flexibility and ventilation was noticeably present on each finger, at the points where you would need them most. This is where most gloves fall short because the construction is more rigid constrictive when you make a fist or try gripping anything.

The tips of the fingers also get a much needed upgrade! Most gloves have seams near the finger tips, which totally kills sensitivity and make minute tasks like picking up small objects or pressing buttons almost impossible. The FDT Alpha design has material wrapping-over the tips of fingers, which is more comfortable and spreads out impact pressure that would otherwise damage fingernails.

Enough about the fingers, because the palm is a critical area that doesn't get enough attention on the drawing board most the time. The FDT uses a single layer made up of multiple pieces. This allows for the freedom of natural creases and contours when gripping or making a fist, while the single layer ensures theres a tangible feel of what you are gripping. Thick gloves for shooting reminds me a lot like Ralphie's overwinterized brother in the Christmas Story...

The back of the gloves are thoughtful designed as well. The knuckles are covered in 1000D Stretch Ballistic Nylon, which help cut down on pressure at the seams when you make a fist and your knucks protrude outward. There is even an area of micro suede that is good for wiping boogers off your mustache. It happens to all of us, especially outdoors in the winter... no judgment, ladies. 

The cuff is shortened as well, which makes alot of sense for shooting a variety of guns with different grip angles. Your wrist maybe bent at a greater angle shooting one firearm, say a short barreled rifle, versus shooting a pistol like a 1911. The cuff is secured using a velcro-like hook and loop that is much more minimal and modern. SKD claims they used this stuff because is is less prone to catching onto fabrics and materials you don't want it to cling to.

The FDT Alpha Glove is certainly more custom tailored to the anatomy of the human hand, and thusly the sizing will seem a bit off then what you are used to. For instance, my hands typically fit best in a ___ size, whereas the FDT Alpha Gloves in ____ fit perfectly. Here is a sizing chart to help you choose the best size glove for your paws.

The gloves are supposed to feel tight at first. SKD says as long as they aren't uncomfortable when you make a fist and is snug when your hand is open, the sizing is correct. They do integrate a paracord loop on the cuff that is bar-tacked, to help with sliding into the glove like most shoes have also for your feet.

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The biggest issue many folks have is the longevity of the glove. Due to the design considerations to increase comfort, dexterity, and flexibility, these gloves can wear out sooner than you would expect.  I bought my first pair in 2012, and after about 16-18 months they finally met their bitter end. SKD is totally aware, and tries to make it blatantly clear on the website with a disclaimer:

“At the end of the day, the PIG FDT-Alpha Gloves are a consumable product that will provide the user with the best tactile dexterity available in a tactical glove, and should be worn to destruction, then discarded and replaced. The selection of super sensitive materials and extremely tight seams mean that these gloves will eventually wear out, and there are no warranties implied. Please try them on and inspect them thoroughly for fit and finish before removing from the hangtag, but be forewarned, you will not want to take them off.”
— SKD Website, product page

At a sub $50 price point, SKD urges customers to wear their alpha gloves until their demise, and simply buy a new pair. Welcome to Marketing 101... convince customer to buy the product, use until failure, then replace and repeat. Realistically though, gloves are just as susceptible to wear as gun magazines as well as other clothing. $50 underwear will last as long as the $15 5-pack will. But that $50 pair will feel so good on your cheeks that you wear them more, wash them more, and thusly wear out faster. The same applies to gloves essentially. I bet SKD would see a higher repurchase rate if they offered 5-10% off to reordering customers with blown out gloves, just a thought.

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So did I buy a second pair after my first ones got thrashed? Yes I did, because the compatibility with touch screens was a big enough selling point to me, as well as the increased dexterity that is needed for every task on the firing line. Plus I often get sweaty hands when wearing gloves, and the ventilation holes in both the palms and fingers help combat the moisture. Just don't expect these to keep you absolutely warm and dry in the winter months, because they are really designed to do one thing well... shoot!

Firearms Insider Reviews – 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: So much sensitivity that you can wear these on your next date with PALMela HANDerson.

Target Market: Shooters of all types

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Conductive Thumb and Trigger Finger material for touch screen use
  • Single Layer Multi-Piece Palm
  • Isolated Trigger Finger uses Clarino™ material
  • Forschette material is ventilated for maximum sweat wicking
  • Low Profile Hook & Loop Closure
  • Flex Joints for enhanced flexibility
  • Dual Flex Joints on Trigger Finger
  • Bar-Tacked Para Cord Pull Loop
  • Micro Suede Nose Wipe
  • Ventilation holes in Palms and Fingers for more wicking
  • Isolated Edge Padding
  • Wrap-Over Finger Tips for finger nails protection
  • Stretch Ballistic Nylon 1000D Padded Knuckles

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Black, Coyote, Ranger Green, Carbon Grey. Womens sizes also available!

What others are saying?:"I dig these gloves. They required a total of ZERO break-in time. Their fine, high-quality seams don't press into the tips of my fingers when I grasp my rifle, sidearm, or anything else (unlike my normal shooting gloves, which were originally intended for automotive work). They're supple enough to go unnoticed on my hands after just a few minutes, and their touchscreen sensitivity is flawless." -User Review

"I do a lot of work with pyrotechnics, av grip work, and of course training with firearms. These are by the best gloves I've owned. What sold me was the overlapping finger tips which aid in improved fine motor dexterity that eliminates having to remove the gloves while working. They were so comfortable that I would find any excuse to wear them. I truly put them to the test and they held up until I blew out the index finger on the right hand glove. I can't knock them for it. All sorts of fine motor skills with pyrotechnics and AV grip work that could not have been for seen by SKD. I'll definitely be ordering another pair." -User Review

Price point:

I need it now! Availability: SKD Tactical

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Finger and Thumb work with touch screens on smart devices
  • Ventholes reduce sweating after prolonged use
  • Improved dexterity for tasks that otherwise require removing glove to do the job
  • Feels great in all hand positions
  • Single layer palm increases sensitivity

Cons:

  • Interior palm/finger material can be slippery on non-textured guns
  • Design causes expedited wear compared to other gloves (if you dont go thru shooting gloves every couples years, you aren't shooting enough!)
  • Single layer and ventholes work against you when wet and or cold
  • Made overseas

 

Score: 7.5 Good

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Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

Benchmade Griptilian

Like many red blooded American boys, I was big into pocket knives before growing old enough for the firearms bug to take hold. It's a fascination you never really grow out of I think. Over the years I've owned, broke and lost quite a few folding knives. It's because of this quick turnover that I've always been hesitant to invest in a nicer quality knife. My budget was typically the cheaper blades you'd get at Christmas or from a big box store for under $50. Usually a Gerber, or a Buck knife. 

Well finally I convinced myself to step up my EDC knife game. I bumped my budget up to the $100-$200 dollar range and was looking for a folder that had high quality steel that wouldn't need sharpening so often, and an easy opening mechanism. Obviously being in the gun and knife community for awhile, you hear impressions and recommendations from other folks. I kept hearing about the Griptilian and it's little brother the Mini Grip and how they were a great all purpose folder well suited for everyday carry and capable of handling some abuse.

The Griptilian is one of Benchmade's best sellers, and I figured I needed to pick one up myself. If purchasing from Benchmade's website, you can pick from all the customization options to design the knife exactly how you want, a lot like picking out a new car. Grip material, grip color, blade steel and finish, blade style, even custom engraving options. Of course, you're paying full price going thru the manufacturer's... but you get exactly the type of knife you want.

I went the more frugal option and bought my Griptilian at a gun show. I highly recommend this option for those who aren't too specific on their color options, and want to save more than a few bucks. The Griptilian has been out for quite a few years now, so being older its very easy to haggle with vendors and talk them down to a lower price, especially if A: you are buying more than one knife, and B: if its the last day/hours of the gun show and they are a little more desperate to move inventory. If you can afford to pay full price on the principle of supporting local small businesses, thats fantastic also. Just be aware that buying from a gun show booth, you are obviously limited by the stock on hand, so be prepared to compromise on handle color and other aesthetic options.

So I picked a black coated Tanto blade style 'Grip' with an OD green handle. I chose the Tanto because its design makes for a stronger tip, and I usually end up snapping tips on drop point and sheepsfoot style knives in desperation while doing a task with the wrong tool. Plus this is a knife I've added to my EDC gear (Que obligatory pocket dump instagram photo!) and a Tanto is a very capable defensive blade design.

 
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I didn't pick the Tanto for the express purpose of stabbing or shanking bad guys, although really the only benefits are its advantage in perforating tough materials like sheet metal, and skulls of course. As well as working well as a make-shift chisel when needed. When it comes to slicing jobs, drop points are more versatile because they have a belly.The Tanto design has two flat edges and zero “belly” to the blade, making tasks like slicing more difficult depending on the medium. Plus, drop-point style blades are MUCH easier to sharpen. Tantos have two angles to sharpen, and it takes some practice to perfect.

If I had to repurchase my 'Grip,' I would go for a traditional drop point instead. That said, I like the Mel Pardue design and the 154 chrome moly steel Benchmade uses, and it holds an edge pretty well compared to lesser knives. Most knife owners complain about their knifes getting dull, and its because they LET the edge get dull. These aren't lightsabers folks, and until adamantium becomes a real thing, all knifes will require sharpening as simple maintenance. With better quality steels, the more you let the edge dull, the harder it will be to return to that razor sharp edge. So if you use it regularly, you should maintain that edge regularly also.

Its the AXIS lock mechanism thats the shining feature of the Griptilian. The release itself is ambidextrous, and is raised for easy manipulation. The edges of the AXIS release are a bit sharp. I've heard of some users using an emery board or other buffing tools to knock down that edge so its not as aggressive. While it can be slid down from one side, pulling down on both sides of the release is more efficient. This is ironically because of the physical axis the release tilts on when you only apply downward pressure from one side. The travel distance needed to release the lock is actually pretty short, so it doesn't take much effort if you are wanting to 'flip' the blade out one handed with a flick of the wrist.

The blade can also be deployed using the thumb stud. The studs are sizable enough to wedge the tip of your thumb under and flick outward, without being obnoxiously protruding. If the traditional slow and safe way is more your speed, its easy to pivot out with your thumb on the stud, and then by pulling down on the release and closing the blade manually.

If you want to be fast and dangerous, there is the 'AXIS flick' method of opening the Griptilian by only using the inertia of a quick flick of wrist while holding down the AXIS lock release stud. This way will make you more friends around the water cooler, but is also a great way to cut yourself if you don't know what you are doing. Too much momentum might cause the blade to bounce if the AXIS stud is still being held down in the unlocked position. This goes for either opening or closing the blade (see end of video). Releasing the stud at the right time ensures the blade is held in the correct position. Just be warned this isn't the manufacturer's recommended operation, and you could be prematurely wearing your knife's internals prematurely by doing this too often.

The grip texture on the sides of the nylon handle is a bunch of pyramids in an area roughly about the 60% of the whole handle. There is also nylon jimping on the spine side and blade sides. The overall swell of the handle I found pretty ergonomic in the hand, and I wouldn't wish it bigger or smaller personally. There is a big difference in handle width and feel if you go with a G10 handle, as they are panels rather than a nylon housing. I do like the nylon because its closed in the rear to keep out pocket lint and other debris, but it can snap with enough force applied (don't run over it or land on it in your pocket).

The metal inserts inside the handle have jimping as well, on the back side and the front near the pivot point. This is ideal for stabbing tasks, as well as cutting like you would with an Exacto knife or carpet knife. I found them textured enough for a firm purchase, without being too abrasive for bare skin.

The clip on the Grip is reversible for left or right hand pocket carry. Either way it leaves the folded blade's tip pointing up. You can't flip the clip to reorient the tip (thank you, thank you). But it would be very awkward to pull from your pocket in any other direction. For self defense, the knife can still be drawn and deployed easily. While its not setup to catch on the pocket and deploy all fancy-like an Emerson Wave design, its still a solid action for reacting to a threat.

In my time period with the Griptilian, I was pretty surprised by its robust construction. You could get away with a fair amount of stabbing, prying and reckless twisting with this knife in the Tanto configuration. It does have it's limits, but so far I've been surprised how much abuse the Grip can withstand... unmentionable things that I wouldn't dare subject a lesser knife to do. So far the Griptilian has been a fantastic EDC knife and I would happily repurchase it again (but in hindsight, probably get a drop-point blade instead).

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: When it comes to all around functionality, you can't beat the Griptillian!

Target Market: EDC, Outdoor and Utility knife carriers

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Multiple shapes, sizes, grips and colors available

  • AXIS lock mechanism

  • Manual-opening action

  • Blade Steel is 154CM (58-61 HRC)

  • 3.45" Blade Length

  • 8.07" Open Length

  • 4.62" Closed Length

  • 0.115" Blade Thickness

  • 0.64" Handle Thickness

  • Drop-point Blade Style

  • Weighs 3.88oz. (Sheepsfoot: 3.79oz., Tanto: 3.89oz.)

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Satin or Coated Blade; Grips come in Nylon or G10, in Black, Olive Drab, Sand, Orange, and Gray.

What others are saying?:"I've had my Griptilian for over 6 years now and I have to say its the best knife I've ever owned. Its lasted a long time and through a ton of abuse during my many camping trips and time as an infantryman in the army. They have gotten a bit more expensive over the years but I would still buy a new one if mine ever decided to run away. I will say they are hard to keep sharp with typical sharpening techniques because the steel is so strong but with LifeSharp I never have to worry about my knife getting dull." - User Review

Price point:

I need it now! Availability: Benchmade, Amazon, Gun Show Knife Dealers

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • AXIS lock easy to open knife with one hand two different ways
  • Blade quality is very decent
  • Nylon pyramid grip texture is great even when wet
  • Nylon handle option has a closed shell design, keeping out lint and debris
  • LifeSharp Warranty Service
  • Coating on blades is strong and resists wear pretty well
  • Jimping for thumb and index finger placement is top notch

Cons:

  • When closing one handed, blade can bounce back open if too much momentum
  • Clip can only be oriented with 'blade tip up' carry

Score: 8.5 Great

 

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

American Speedloaders Nest Style Loader for Glock 9mm/40sw

If you shoot a semi automatic handgun, you should own more than one magazine for it. The saying goes: "one is none, two is one, three is two, and 12 is getting close to enough." Okay I just made that up, but the point is you can never have enough magazines for your firearm. After you've spent the month's grocery budget on mags, you'll soon realize that loading more than one or two mags consecutively starts to become a pain.

For a Glock owner, having a Speedloader that is faster than traditional loading can save time and the nerve endings in your fingers.

For a Glock owner, having a Speedloader that is faster than traditional loading can save time and the nerve endings in your fingers.

If your firearm has an ammo capacity over 10 rounds and the ability for extended capacities, you begrudgingly know the discomfort and tediousness of loading magazines. Mags with 15+ round capacities can be a pain to load, and the faster you try to speed up the process, typically the more painful it is on your thumbs. For those who go thru a lot of ammo fast like competition shooters or instructors, topping off mags becomes a routine annoyance. Of course, humans do what we do best... invent a tool to get the job done better.

Tools that assist in magazine loading are commonly called "Speedloaders" and have been around for quite some time. Usually they are 'cap style' loaders that go over the mag's opening and help push down the loaded cartridge(s), compressing the spring and making it easier to insert the next round under the feed lips. This process still involves the same amount of force and the use of both hands.  It just saves your thumbs and fingers from fatigue and saves you a few seconds per mag.

The rounds slide down a sloped ramp into the nest itself. If the whole assembly isn't vertical enough, the round could fall into the internals and jam up the loader all together.

Recently I just came across a new style of speedloader that caught my interest immediately. A company by the name of American Speedloaders LLC has patented 'Nest Style' design that literally flips the script. Instead of pressing a tool downward on the mags, you turn the mag upside down and insert it into the speedloader itself. This gives the user more leverage, making it easier to compress the mag's internal spring.

Pushing down picks up the round in the magazine. It doesn't require much force, even with the compressed spring of high capacity mags.

The operation is really easy. When you insert the mag into the nest loader, it sits in an elevated resting position. In the side of the loader there is a small chute that slides down through a port. Dropping a cartridge into that chute and down into the hole aligns it directly under the magazine feed lips on top of a raise platform. Simply pressing the magazine downward into the Speedloader picks the round up. The loader's springs push the magazine back up into the resting  position after the use releasing pressure. Thats it! 

Releasing pressure resets the loader, and its ready for the next round.

Releasing pressure resets the loader, and its ready for the next round.

This process can be done both with one hand, or two handed for a faster rate per bullet. Extended magazines like the 33rd 'happy stick' can be loaded easily under a minute. This method is simply a better mouse trap. I can literally load every magazine I own in one sitting with no fatigue build up. If you've got the ammo, you can top off all your mags in one quick sitting.

This nest style design from American Speedloaders is only compatible with two magazine types so far. The Glock 9/40 mags, and the FN Five Seven (5.7x28mm) mags. According to their website, at the time of writing this review they are working on more speedloaders for other magazine types. I'm assuming Glock 45 acp mags are on the whiteboard, as well as other popular firearm models like the Smith & Wesson M&P, Springfield XD-M, FNX, Colt SMG, and other pistol caliber guns with high capacity magazines available on the market. Obviously these are merely my own predictions.

The internal ramp feeds both 9mm or 40sw rounds into the magazine when its pressed down.

I don't foresee this kind of speedloader being adapted for smaller capacity magazines types like the 1911, single stack Glock mags likes the 42 and 43, and other mags with capacities of 10 and under, because they aren't all that difficult or slow to load. If you do own something along those lines and have a hard time loading mags...rest assured American Speedloaders has cap style loaders to suit your needs.

Obviously the speedloader works with all doublestack Glock magazines, even the ETS clear ones.

Not only do I own Glock pistols in 9mm and 40sw, but a couple carbines that runs on the same mags as well. There are dozens of pistol caliber carbines that utilize Glock mags like the Lone Wolf G9, Keltec Sub2000, Kriss Vector, JR Carbine, TWN Aero Survival Carbines, Quarter Circle Ten, and even more AR-15 style receivers. Carbines obviously make it easy to go thru larger mags faster, and loading them back up with this speedloader is almost as fast as unloading them downrange. Thats why I wouldn't be surprised if Colt SMG mags were being considered, as a fair amount of carbines and pistol caliber conversion kits use that magazine, and it's capacity warrants the need for assistance.

Here you can see a video of my loading Glock mags as fast and controllable as I can after some practice. If only I could rig this up with an automated reloaded press like a Dillan 650 and an Ammobot, but this is still very quick and extremely useful for an average shooter like myself. It works best when placed on a flat solid surface, but as long as its close to perpendicular so gravity can align the bullets properly inside the speedloader, it should work. If you don't have it vertical, or you don't fully let the nest rest by letting the mag come up, you could bump a round off the internal ramp and gum up the whole mechanism. (simply invert to dislodge jammed round).

Overall, I found this little gadget to be easily worth its asking price. Its easy to operate no matter your age or physical ability, and it is small enough to fit in a range bag or pistol case for range trips. I am anxious to see the next model of magazine that American Speedloader takes on. Heck, a 223/5.56 speedloader for STANAG rifle magazines would be very well received! *hint hint*

Firearms Insider Reviews – 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: This changes everything. Load your entire magazine quicker and easier than ever before.

Target Market: Glock Pistol or Glock Mag Carbine owners

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Compatible with Glock 9mm and 40sw magazines
  • Simple to use
  • Compact and easy to bring to the range
  • Durable material
  • Patented design

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Black only. Other calibers coming soon.

What others are saying?: "Received one of these loader for a gift. It really works great" - User Review

Price point:

I need it now! Availability: Lone Wolf Distributors or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Loads quickly with little physical exertion
  • Makes topping off larger capacity magazines with stiffer spring resistance easier
  • Can be used one handed and two handed
  • Mouth is designed to only accept mag in proper orientation

Cons:

  • Must be perpendicular when loaded, or round can bind up mechanism
  • Compared to other cap style speed loaders, compatibility with only one magazine type is a downside

Score: 7.5 Good

 

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

Vortex Spitfire 3X Prism Scope

Lets be honest, the term "Poor Man's ACOG" gets thrown around WAY too much in the firearms industry. It still confounds me that an old military optic is still the golden measuring stick to which all fixed low power modern optics are measured against today. I blame video games like Call of Duty and others for introducing a whole generation to not only firearms, but optics as well. I don't mean that in a terribly bad way, as I can be lumped in with that bunch as well. The biggest hurdle preventing most rifle owners from purchasing one of America's most iconic battle rifle optics is its tremendous price tag. AR-15 owners often want a 3 or 4 power fixed optic with some sort of etched ballistic compensating reticle, without dropping a grand or more.

No one worth their salt in the industry will call the ACOG overpriced, but the stiff cost has given rise to many imitators and knock-offs over the years, that for lack of a better word... suck. If you just want to cosplay or throw together an airsoft rifle that looks like the real deal with a Chinese facsimile, go ahead. For those who are seeking a range/self defense worthy optic in the same category as the ACOG but at a much more affordable price, there are a few options available today that will definitely fit the bill.

Of course being a huge Vortex fan, I had to give the Spitfire a go. If you haven't already read my other reviews of Vortex optics (here and here) then let me reiterate that Vortex is kicking ass in "best bang for your buck" category. Their glass is on par with many of the top tier competitors, and their no B.S. VIP warranty means if you break it, you are not screwed. You basically get many of the features of more expensive scopes but at a more enticing price point. Thats more cash for ammo, training, or guns for that matter! 

Vortex's prism-based Spitfire line share a lot in common with ACOG scopes like the TA33, but at less than 50% the street price. Starting with the magnification and reticle, the Spitfire comes into two flavors: a 1x with a halo/dot reticle, and a 3x with a "EBR-556B" reticle with hold overs to cover 0-500 yards. The EBR-556B shares similarities with most ACOG reticles, giving a minimalist bullet drop compensation system while leaving a lot of uncluttered space in the remainder of the shooter's view. In my testing on an 16 in. AR-15 precision build as well as a TAR-21 Tavor Bullpup, the subtensions were consistent and very usable.

The feature of the Spitfire I found most favorable was the reticle that remains usable with or without illumination. Red dots are great, but ultimately depend on a battery to provide a point of aim. Hence the emphasis on cowitnessing back up iron sights as a failsafe against such an inevitable failure. With the Spitfire Prism optics however, you always have that black reticle on the glass. The red/green illumination is great in low light or no light scenarios, and the 5 brightness settings help with tuning that glowing reticle to your specific needs. But when that little 2032 battery expires, the ever present reticle will ensure you can keep shooting.

Speaking of illumination, that brings me to my next big point. Does the Spitfire have dual illumination like the ACOG? My short answer is no, it doesn't... and if thats something you want/need, shut up and fork out the $1,000 - $1,400 for an optic like the Trijicon ACOG or AccuPoint. Its as simple as that. If you want the same gear the big boys use in the military, buy the same gear. If you are a civilian owner of the AR-15, SCAR, a bullpup or other modular sporting rifle in 5.56x54mm who wants a fantastic 3x prism optic for the range as well as self defense and home/property defense, keep reading friend, we're in the same boat.

I'll admit, the dual illumination feature (using internal tritium vials or a light gathering fiber optic rod as a backup to battery power) is an attractive and distinctive feature of the ACOG that is great for our armed forces who perform many low light and night operations with their rifles. As a part of the average AR-15 owning civilian populous, I am satisfied with the trade-off that is spending under $500 and just carrying extra 2032 batteries as part of my essential gear.

The windage and elevation adjustment is pretty standard, with coin-slotted turrets with marked increments for tracking your rotations. What really shines, is the decent tension to the adjustment rotation and the actual "click" you can feel and hear. Tack on the tethered, knurled caps with integrated ledges incase you have no tools or lose change... and thats about everything you could ask for in the adjustment controls department. 

The Spitfire uses a base clamp with two cross bolts for mounting to picatinny rail. There is a mount riser between the base and the optic that contributes to the 40.4mm height off the rail. If you needed a shorter height, just unscrew the two mount screws, remove the mount riser, and install the shorter mount screws included in the box. This should give you  30mm height over the rail. I guess this would be handy if mounting to a non-AR-15 rifle with a different rail to comb height ratio... like a tavor with a taller aftermarket rail, an AK with a railed dust cover, etc. OR I had a bright idea: since the base clamp isn't quick detaching at all, you might use a scope riser like a Kinetic Development universal SIDELOK scope riser and convert your Spitfire to a QD mount, hoping the end result isn't too tall for your purpose. OR just buy a QD mount from American Defense MFG.

The factory height is about what is needed to cowitness with back up iron sights... but theres no way you can focus on the front sight through the prism lens. It just doesn't work that way. However, if you find you need a secondary way of aiming without magnification, the Spitfire has two offset rails on the top, one on each side. This way you could run a micro red dot like the Vortex Viper, Venom or other optics in that category. Then all you'd have to do is cant the rifle and lift your eye level to meet the auxiliary red dot optic.

Needless to say, the Spitfire is waterproof, fogproof, and shockproof (what Vortex product isn't?). The tube is sealed with an O-ring to prevent moisture, dust and debris from getting in, while keeping the nitrogen gas purging on the inside. These features make an optic suitable for actual use out in the elements, and I honestly don't buy any optics without them.

Did I mention the included scope caps? Well, I hate them. After awhile these style of caps get worn or stretched out, and the lens caps don't want to stay retained in the close position. I typically leave them in the box, and instead use a bikini style cover when in transport or storage.

Overall, the Spitfire 3x is an optic worthy of being mounted on your home defense / range AR-15. Its got all the features I would expect from a $300-400 prism scope, and the VIP warranty from Vortex really can't be beat. I mean, you could beat the optic to hell, but the manufacturer will just fix or replace it for you any how. My Spitfire pretty much rotates between my AR-15s and the IWI SAR-21 Tavor, and I've enjoyed the results on whatever it gets mounted on.

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame:  Designed specifically for the AR platform, the 3x Spitfire™ combines an impressive array of high-performance features into a rugged, ultra-compact package.

Target Market: AR-15 (and other modular sporting rifles) owners

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Includes 2 picatinny offset rails

  • Includes 2 Flip Caps

  • T-15 Torx Wrench and 2mm Hex wrench included

  • Red/Greem Illumination with 5 levels of brightness intensity for each color

  • CR2032 battery life is 250 hours at max brightness and 3,000 hours at min. brightness

  • Multi-Coated with anti-reflective coatings to increase light transmission

  • Single-Piece Chassis

  • Waterproof, Fogproof, Shockproof

  • Hard Anodized Finish

  • Operating Temperature -22 degrees to +122 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • Variable Mount Heights for lower 1/3 or absolute cowitness height (BUT WHY?)

  • Eye Relief is 2.8 inches

  • Field of View is 31.5 feet/100 yards

  • Adjustment Graduation of 1/2 MOA

  • 120 MOA Max Elevation Adjustment

  • 120 MOA Max Windage Adjustment

  • Parallax Setting preset to 100 yards

  • Length is 5.5 inches

  • Weight is 15.4*

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Black Only. 1X Prism available

What others are saying?: "This is a really good optic. In fact, it is pretty much perfect. I like Red Dots because they are fast and allow a gun to be used when its dark out. The vortex has all the benefits of a red dot and all the benefits of a small fixed power scope. Most red dots, aren't magnified which means that if your vision isn't perfect it can be hard to hit small targets or targets that are farther away. Since I am a civilian and spend most of my shooting time on the range (not clearing houses in Afghanistan), I'll trade the little extra speed that comes with having a zero magnification red dot in exchange for being able to shoot more accurately. Because this is a low power scope you can see objects clearly at across the room distances (less than 10 feet isn't the greatest) and very clearly from 10 feet out to a few hundred yards. Of course you could buy a flip up magnifier for an eotech or aimpoint, but they cost twice as much, take up your entire rail, unbalance your rifle and are generally just bulky. Besides 3x seems to work fine at close range and distance so there is no need to switch back and forth.

As a red dot and a magnified scope the vortex is a perfect compromise. However, this setup isn't perfect if you want your back up iron sights to co-witness. First, the magnification is sufficiently high to mostly obscure the front sight to the point where it is barely visible, and 2nd, the eye relief on this scope isn't infinite, your eye must be no more than 2 inches or so away for the site to work properly... Because I'm pretty big, I had to remove the flip ups so that the scope could sit further back and be used more naturally. However, because of the etched reticle, having no backup irons is not at all problematic they way it would be on most red dots because if your battery dies or the lights stop working you can continue using your optic just as you would a normal scope... it doesn't disappear into oblivion.

I considered buying an ACOG, but simply couldn't justify the price. Furthermore, in many ways the vortex is actually better. The light is brighter because it uses batteries and there is no tritium that slowly dims until it dies out entirely in ten years or so requiring a costly replacement. Besides, you can buy 10 years worth of batteries for no more than 10 bucks. After all, the batteries are available everywhere and I stock them for a whole host of other equipment.

I also love the fact that I didn't have to mount the scope on a base... which is much more of a pain than most people realize. Another extremely positive feature of this scope is the picatinny rails. My AR is a basic model (no fancy hand guards)... So this scope provides a place for me to put a flashlight (just by attaching scope rings to it) and a laser (if needed) without crazy Frankenstein mounts. Finally with the life time warranty you really just can't go wrong. 1/4th the price of an ACOG with equal functionality." Amazon User Review

Price point:

I need it now! Availability: Brownells or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Bright light transmission
  • Rock solid mount
  • Ambidextrous pic rail for offset micro red dot mounting
  • Lower Third and Absolute cowitness compatible (again, WHY?)
  • Decent
  • Lens caps

Cons:

  • No QD mount available
  • Reticle can be small/thin for older eyes
  • No custom reticle systems for non 5.56/223 calibers (Why not 300blk, 7.62x39, 6.5, 458 Socom)
  • Lens caps suck, will wear and loose retention over time with use

Score: 8.0 Great

 

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

Vortex VMX-3T Magnifier

For my testing, I paired the VMX-3T with a SparcAR and its predecessor, the Sparc II.

Now that I've reviewed one of my favorite red dot optics, I can discuss the value and merits of integrating a magnifier to your rifle's optic line up. I know what you're thinking, "This damn Vortex fanboy is trying to separate me from more of my hard earned money! Why not just get a 1-4x power scope?" Well, the answer is both yes and no.

Red dots are ideal for carbines and other rifles, but having a boost of magnification is super beneficial and worth the extra ounces. 

Yes, I think you should get yourself a magnifier to accompany your red dot optic. Red dots are great for multiple types of rifles, and are quick for fast and dirty work up close as well as adequate for slower fire at targets up to and beyond 100 yards. Its those times when you are taking longer shots that adding a 3x zoom is not only useful, but potentially essential. Is it faster to pivot a magnifier out of the way than it is to turn a magnification ring on a scope? Nope, they're about the same. The real difference is the 1x setting on most lower tier scopes aren't a true one power, meaning zero magnification. These scopes can cause optical distortion on their lowest setting, and can hinder efficient target acquisition at closer ranges. If you go out of your way to find a true 1x variable power scope, you'll being paying way more than $400.

The magnifier + red dot combo is especially at home on a rifle with a large flat top rail, like my SAR-21 Tavor Bullpup.

Its certainly acceptable to be satisfied with a red dot alone, and not feel the need to add a magnifier behind it. Just hear me out though. Target identification is a huge advantage to having a magnifier on board your rifle. If you are engaging a target (paper, steel, or flesh) you should be able to clearly see all aspects of the target. Giving yourself a little zoom can help in picking out holes in the target at the range, or more importantly in combat you can see greater details and attributes of your target, and what lies behind it. At 50 yards your eyes should have no problem gathering this critical information, but at 100 yards and beyond the naked human eye just isn't up to the task.  Adding 3x magnification isn't enough to cut field of view too drastically, but can be a well needed boost at those ranges. Plus, it can still be used in close quarters without wasting precious time trying to acquire the target.

Even at distances inside 50 yards, the magnified view (right) offers more detail than the naked red dot (left).  3x might not be as helpful at 100 yards, but its a hell of a difference than without magnification at all.

Vortex's magnifier is the VMX-3T, and just like their red dot optics, it boasts a super high quality and a lean price tag that is truly hard to beat. It costs the exact same as the Sparc II / AR, two optics it plays very nicely with.  It also works with the Strikefire, as well as other manufacturer's optics like EOtech holographic sights, AimPoint optics, etc. It will not work with any magnified optic that also requires eye relief, such as a Spitfire 4x Prism optic. (Oh trust me, I tried.)

The button release on the VMX-3T is easy to actuate even with gloved hands. Just grab the scope, press the button in with your thumb and pivot to the side.

The magnifier flips to the side to allow naked use of the red dot optic, as well as cowitnessed iron sights. Tavor owners just need to be sure to mount the magnifier forward enough the clear the picatinny rail integrated rear sight.

The integration of a mount is really paramount to a magnifier's usefulness on a rifle (pun intended). The ability to rotate or flip out of the way when the bare optic or iron sights are being used is the most iconic feature of a good magnifier. In fairness, I've used and compared a couple types of mounts on my rifles besides the VMX-3T. The EOtech G33 for instance, I got in a trade deal, and it came with an American Defense Swiveling mount. This swung the magnifier 180 degress on a horizontal axis. I found this to require more clearance and was slower to deploy, compared to the more common "flip" Y axis mounts. That, and any object that snagged the optic in the offset position with enough force could free the mount's detent lock. Usually the G33 comes with a standard "flip" style, but for comparison sake I wanted to illustrate which format of mount was better.

Ideally you should mount the magnifier as close to the red dot as possible, as long as is still freely actuates. For red dots with rear located controls like the SparcAR, this could be alittle tight for pressing the buttons with the magnifier in use. Still, I little to no issue even with gloved fingers.

The VMX-3T's mount has a push button release than ensures rock solid deployed and offset positions, and is easily pushable with the operator's thumb while grabbing the whole tube for flipping it out of the way quickly but also smoothly. If you are a left and desire to swap the mount so the magnifier flips to the right side of the receiver, it is doable... however the release button will be facing away from you and may become more cumbersome to operate. While I wish the mount attached to the host rail itself with a quick detach lever, the nature of the two position joint negates that desire. If I don't want to optic in my way, flip it to the side. If I need the "zoom zoom for the boom boom" then flip it inline with your optic. The only reason to ditch the optic completely from the rifle is weight savings, which is just shy of 12 ounces anyway. The extra weight added to your rifle is a small price to pay for a distinct advantage behind the trigger.

The magnifier should hover above most flip up iron sights available for the AR-15. This Griffin Armament M2 sight is the same height when collapsed as the Magpul BUIS rear sight, so both work in combination with the VMX-3T and whatever red dot you prefer.

As far as glass quality is concerned, I found the VMX-3T to be brighter by a noticeable margin. The eyebox on both VMX-3T and G33 magnifiers was almost identical in terms of eye relief distance. Both brands' adjustment turrets for azimuth centering were also on par. I did prefer that the VMX-3T could be adjusted with a coin or flatheaded tool on the fly, whereas the G33 required removal of caps before making an adjustment. I find that you don't typically need to tweak with the turrets more than once unless swapping optics entirely. Both also have an adjustable diopter for tuning the sharpness to your specific liking, but I did find the Vortex to be easier in finding that sweet spot of crisp lines and textures. The higher level of brightness and the drastically lower MSRP is really what struck the deal for me.

A flathead screwdriver, pocket knife, or a penny or dime can be used to zero the partnered red dot's reticle within the magnifier's view.

One more important feature of a magnifier is rail clearance. The VMX-3T's mount only takes up about 4 slots of picatinny rail, so you should have plenty of room to pair is with your favorite red dot optic on the top rail of an AR-15 receiver or other modern sporting rifle. Be aware though as it might not sit high enough to clear your favorite folding rear iron sight. Griffin Armament M2 clear, as does Midwest Industries and Magpul MBUS, so if you are running any one of those you'll be fine.

Yes thats right, you could still run vertical iron sights cowitnessed with your red dot optic should you need to, all while the magnifier is flipped to the offset position. Can you do that with your 1-4x scope without going out and buying a whole new set of offset iron sights? Hmm? On another note, it is possible to use the magnifier as a "field monocular" when in the offset position. Closing my dominant eye and using my left eye, I could look thru the VMX-3T without shifting my cheek weld much or adjusting my shooting position. So if you are at the range and want to use the magnifier in such a way to benefit your view of the target, feel free to do so!

I especially enjoy running a magnifier and red dot combo on SBRs, as the lighter weight of the short barrel balances out the added weight on the rail. Stretching out the range is a nice plus too.

If you already have a red dot, chances are I don't need to convince you how practical and useful it is. I would suggest you look into adding a magnifier to squeeze out more benefits and adaptability to your rifle's capabilities. Don't let steep price tags scare you either, because the VMX-3T is the quintessential "best bang for your buck" in the magnifier market right now. Plus, its hard to deny the potential for pure instagram gold.

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame:  Vortex VMX - 3T Magnifier with Flip Mount. Simple. Fast. Effective

Target Market: Red Dot owners

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Fully Multi-Coated Lenses

  • Hard Anodized low-glare matte finish

  • Nitrogen Gas Purged

  • Waterproof, fogproof and shockproof

  • 3x Magnification

  • 2.2 inch Eye Relief

  • Field of View 38.2 feet/100 yards

  • 30 mm Tube Size

  • 4.3 inches long
     
  • Weighs 11.9 oz
  • Includes side flipping mount
  • Reversable mount

  • Multi-Height Mount System Includes a spacer shim that can be utilized to provide two different mounting heights: lower 1/3 co-witness (40 mm) & absolute co-witness (37 mm)

  • Compatible with Sparc II, Sparc AR, Strikefire, as well as other manufacturer's optics

  • Azimuth adjustable to center a zeroed reticle / red dot in magnifier view

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Black Only

What others are saying?: "I recently purchased the Vortex VMX-3T 3X magnifier to go behind my Aimpoint PRO. The quality of the Vortex is great. It feels study and substantial. The glass gathers a lot of light, and is very clear. At 1/2 the price, or less, than that of the Aimpoint or Eotech 3X magnifier, the Vortex is a steal.The only thing that I changed with the Vortex was that I flipped the optic around so that it flipped over to the right side. Make sure you use blue Loctite on the mounting screws so that they won't loosen up, and you are good to go." Amazon User Review

Price point:

I need it now! Availability: Brownells or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Brighter light transmission
  • Rock solid mount
  • Huge compatibility range in Vortex and other brands' optics
  • Lower Third and Absolute cowitness compatible
  • Uncapped turrets
  • Lens caps

Cons:

  • No QD mount available (is it needed, really?)
  • Ambidextrous configuration puts release button in awkward position

Score: 8.5 Great

 

 

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

Vortex Sparc AR Red Dot

For a while, the Vortex Sparc was the reigning champ of sub $200 quality built red dot optics. For those who couldn't afford an Aimpoint at over twice the cost, the Sparc and the later Sparc II was either their first red dot purchase, or their first upgrade from a budget Chinese imitation model. Since then Vortex is still a leading brand in the optics world, and has updated the Sparc product line to specifically cater to the AR-15 and other modern sporting rifles with the Sparc AR.

The Sparc AR is specifically designed for the next generation of AR-15 rifles and other modern sporting rifles.

The Sparc AR is a simple but needed evolution of the Sparc II optic, which was a much needed enhancement of the Gen I Sparc. Improvements over the Sparc II are mostly superficial, as Vortex went for a much more streamlined profile. This included a transition from the CR2032 battery to a standard AAA battery. The 2032 battery being quarter sized required placement in a turret compartment as big as the tube itself. The new AAA battery is integrated into the base itself, which leaves the sides of the optic more compact and cleaner.  

The AAA battery compartment is built into the base, keeping the sight body as slim as possible.

The AAA battery has a life of 300 hours at the maximum brightness, and 5,000 hours at the minimum brightness... just like the Sparc II's CR2032. Also just like its predecessor, the Sparc AR has 10 variable illumination settings—the lowest two settings are night-vision compatible. Another feature Vortex kept the same was the automatic shut off after 12 hours to prevent accidental battery rundown.

Moving the controls from the left side to the base also helps keep the body sleek and compact.

The up and down brightness controls have been moved from the left side to the base as well, which leaves the body of the optic much slimmer overall. Vortex incorporated a rubber cover with tethered lens caps. The caps help keep dust and dirt from getting on the lenses, and they can interlock into each other to stay out of the way when the optic is in use.

The lens caps suck. I'd prefer something spring loaded or magnetic to keep the caps out of the way without a meticulous process of snapping them together.

Its almost impossible to snap the caps together one handed, let alone in your peripheral vision. If you don't like them (which I wouldn't blame you) you could either snip the tethers and remove the caps from the soft armor, or pull the whole thing off entirely. Honestly, I'm disappointed it this design from Vortex. Standard small scope caps can't be used either, as the Sparc AR doesn't have any tubular objective or eye piece like the Sparc II did. Maybe someone else will design a rubberized armor cover with flip up caps as a third party option.

The Sparc AR is more Aimpoint-like than the Sparc II. Both still hold up as my favorite red dot sights.

Now back to the Sparc AR... it utilizes a crisp 2 MOA dot (so did the Sparc II). For those who don't have MOA burned into their brain, that means the dot will cover up a 2 inch diameter circle at 100 yards. At 200 yards that coverage doubles to 4 inches, and so on. 2 MOA is a good sized dot for a precise point of aim, but should be easy enough to pick up when shouldering the rifle. The controls are easy to use while maintaining sight picture, and the electronics automatically return to last dot intensity used when powered back up.

The 2MOA dot is crisp and perfect for precise, slow shooting or fast rapid shooting.

The Sparc AR still uses a removable 3mm shim plate to offer absolute cowitness height (37mm) or lower third cowitness (40mm) like the Sparc II did, however the ability to remove base entirely and mount low onto the rail was lost in the upgrade. Obviously the AR in the optic's name stands for AR-15, and there's little need for super low mount on the receiver or on a free floated rail, as the comb on any stock would still be too high for a usable eye height. For AK rifles, shotguns, and certain pistols this ability was a must. Hopefully Vortex doesn't discontinue the Sparc II anything soon. Its shared footprint with the Aimpoint Micro T-1, Micro T-2, Micro H-1, and Micro H-2 was also a huge benefit, as there were plenty of QD bases available.

The Sparc AR is just as at home on a bullpup like the IWI Tavor as it is on the AR-15.

With all the comparisons to the Sparc II, you'd think I wouldn't like the Sparc AR at all. Thats not necessarily true. One big plus over the Sparc II is the shutoff sequence. You wouldn't think pressing and holding two buttons at the same time would be difficult, but with gloved fingers it was a royal pain, and often I would just leave it on to shutoff automatically after 12 hours. With the Sparc AR you only have to press and hold the down button, much easier to do with gloves on and either hand.

Don't worry, the Sparc AR still works great with the Vortex 3x magnifier, if not even better than the Sparc II did because of the lack of cylindrical objective and eye pieces.

I really enjoy the sleeker design of the Sparc AR... especially atop my IWI Tavor bullpup. It is still very much compatible with the Vortex VMX-3T magnifier, however the repositioned rear controls are harder to use with the magnifier deployed versus when they were located on the side of the Sparc II. The slick sided profile and battery-integrated base are still worthy evolutionary traits of the Sparc AR though, and it's a great choice for anyone with and AR-15 or other rifle variant. I would say just be aware of the differences between the two generations, and don't hesitate to get both either, because 2 smart decisions are still better than one!

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame:  Duty rifle - home defense—recreation, the SPARC AR is built to handle all your red dot needs.

Target Market: Modern Sporting Rifle / Modular Rifle owners (AR-15s, SCARs, etc)

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Single-Piece Chassis

  • Hard Anodized low-glare matte finish

  • Unlimited eye relief and parallax free

  • Nitrogen Gas Purged

  • Waterproof, fogproof and shockproof

  • Sutomatically shuts off after 12 hours

  • Uses common AAA battery

  • Typical battery life 300 hours at maximum brightness and 5,000 hours at minimum brightness

  • Fully Multi-Coated

  • 10 variable brightness settings — lowest two settings night-vision compatible..

  • Operating temperature rated -4 degrees to +158 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • Multi-Height Mount System Includes a spacer shim that can be utilized to provide two different mounting heights: lower 1/3 co-witness (40 mm) & absolute co-witness (37 mm)

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Black Only

What others are saying?: "" Amazon User Review

Price point:

I need it now! Availability: Brownells or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Sleeker, sexier design
  • Integrated lens caps
  • Soft rubber armor is removable
  • Easier to shut off than the Sparc II

Cons:

  • Windage and Elevation caps are no longer tethered
  • Lens window is still small / narrow
  • Lens caps will dangle and obstruct your field of view if not snapped together
  • Snapping together of lens caps is difficult if in a hurry / focusing downrange
  • Position of the internal laser emitter protrudes into view, often appears with a black goo sealant that bothers a lot of people

Score: 7.5 Good

 

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

Mesa Tactical SureShell Aluminum Shotshell Carrier

The "tactical shotgun" is a very popular build for those who use a shotgun as their primary home defense weapon. Inspired by the trench guns of the World Wars, the tactical shotgun is a great stand off weapon for holding up in a room while emergency services arrive, or clearing rooms in your house and the close yard (if you are properly trained to do so).

Reloading a shotgun is easier when shells are positioned close to the receiver's ports.

Reloading a shotgun is easier when shells are positioned close to the receiver's ports.

An iconic feature of a tactical shotgun is a side saddle to carry additional ammunition on board. One of the disadvantages of a shotgun versus a carbine is the magazine capacity. Even with a mag tube extension, shotguns typically top off at 6-8 shells total. Thats why carrying extra rounds is a popular practice. Bandoliers are a bit overboard in my opinion, as are slings with shell loops. However side saddles are quite popular as they position the shells close in proximity to the action for quick reloads.

The Mesa Tactical SureShell is a rugged and solid side saddle.

The Mesa Tactical SureShell is a rugged and solid side saddle.

Mesa Tactical has been synonymous with rugged and high quality shotgun accessories, often used by Law Enforcement and security forces. Their SureShell line of aluminum side saddle carriers are a popular aftermarket add on for several popular shotgun models, including the Remington 870 / 1100 / 11-87, Mossberg 500 / 590 and 930, and Benelli M1/M2/M4/M1014 and SuperNova. Some SureShells utilize the receiver pin holes, while others use the shotgun's drilled and tapped receiver when an optic rail is wanted.

The elastomer tube goes through each bore in the yoke to provide friction resistance.

The elastomer tube goes through each bore in the yoke to provide friction resistance.

For my home defense build, I opted for a Remington 870 Express that I could readily swap between a 26" choked barrel during hunting season, and an 18" barrel during the rest of the year. The SureShell comes in handy both in the field and at home, as it works with all types of shells: birdshot, buckshot, and slugs. Its even handy for carrying a alternate type of load then what's loaded up, like if your hunting for upland birds and deer at the same time, or rubber buckshot for non-lethal, and 00 buckshot for extra-lethal.

The SureShell carrier is milled from 6061-T6 aircraft aluminum, then bead blasted and anodized with a mil-spec, non-glare finish. It is secured to 870's receiver with a bracket that comes with an adhesive-backed rubber gasket to protect the shotgun’s finish from marring by the carrier's flush screws. Back in my cheapskate days, I had glued microfiber cloth to the back of a TacStar side saddle's bracket. Oh how relieved I was to upgrade to a more rugged and professional solution.

The SureShell shotshell carriers come in three configurations: four-shell, six-shell and eight-shell. The Eight-shell configuration spans the entire side receiver and seemed overkill for my application. The four-shell carrier was appealing as it could be installed on either side of the receiver, just behind the action port if installed on the right side.  I went with the six-shell carrier, since my current magazine capacity is six in home defense configuration, and three when its hunting season.

The SureShell uses a Chicago screw and a standoff pin. Comes with an extra Chicago pin set and washer in case custom filing of the female screw is needed, and you need two tries.

The SureShell uses a Chicago screw and a standoff pin. Comes with an extra Chicago pin set and washer in case custom filing of the female screw is needed, and you need two tries.

Mesa Tactical also makes SureShell carriers that work specifically with M4 SOPMOD buttstocks using special hardware, and an adapter mount so carriers can be attached to shotguns already equipped with the Mesa Tactical High-tube or Lowtube Telescoping Stock Adapter. The carriers are pretty specific, so the 870 one I picked up wouldn't work on stocks. But if you are the kind of guy who wants to carry an extra 12+ rounds onboard the shotgun, I guess its handy to know Mesa makes that possible.

Mesa supplies two different elastomer tubes with different stiffness ratings. I swapped to the white elastomer for increased resistance.

Mesa supplies two different elastomer tubes with different stiffness ratings. I swapped to the white elastomer for increased resistance.

Mesa Tactical also designed SureShells with integrated rails for certain shotguns with drilled and tapped receivers. So instead of a stamped backing plate, the shell carrier yoke is attached to the top of the receiver, and users can attach an optic to the picatinny MIL-STD 1913 sight rail. Personally, I didn't intend to do any modification to my 870's receiver, and instead use a barrel with rifle sights for use in the home. This keeps the receiver nice and clean for traditional sight picture when trap, skeet, or wing shooting.

For those afraid of marring their shotgun's finish, Mesa provides an adhesive backed rubber gasket to add a protective buffer between the bracket and receiver.

For those afraid of marring their shotgun's finish, Mesa provides an adhesive backed rubber gasket to add a protective buffer between the bracket and receiver.

One compatibility factor you have to consider is your shotgun's forend. If the forend overlaps the receiver when you rack the action open, then the forend itself may contact the SureShell carrier, and require modification for proper functioning of the shotgun. For instance, if you own a Remington 870 Super Magnum thats designed for 3.5" shells, the factory forend will not come back fully with a side saddle installed. Ask me how I know!

For 870 owners, its very, very important you remember to remove this clip that engages the trigger pin. If you don't, you'll be pounding away at the Chicago screw all day and possibly damage your internals.

For 870 owners, its very, very important you remember to remove this clip that engages the trigger pin. If you don't, you'll be pounding away at the Chicago screw all day and possibly damage your internals.

The SureShell receiver mounting system for Remington 870, 1100 and 11-87 shotguns uses a combination of steel fasteners threaded into a steel pin (at the rear) and paired Chicago screws (up front) for more secure attachment to the shotgun without the risk of pinching the receiver. The mounting plate even features a window over the shotgun serial number location, to make it easier for armorers to inventory their weapons.

Mesa-8.jpg
Mesa-9.jpg

The shotgun shells are retained inside the aluminum carrier via an elastomer tube that spans all 6 bores of the yolk. When the shells are inserted into the bores, the elastomer provides resistance against each shell. Mesa provides two different stiffnesses, the white tube being stiffer than the black tube. You may want to swap them out based on your preference, or if you find your climate effects the resistance property of the elastomer. 

Shells can be places brass up or brass down depending on your preference and how you train.

Shells can be places brass up or brass down depending on your preference and how you train.

The SureShell carrier is a huge upgrade over the TacStar I used to have on my Remington. Its got no edges to snag on stuff, and only protrudes 1.25" from the receiver. The anodized finish is a big improvement over the shiny plastic as well. The only downside is that if the weather is cold, the shrinking effect can cause shells to fit looser inside the bores. If they are positioned brass down, they could fall out. For that reason I usually insert them primers up when in a cold environment, like sitting in the duck blind in mid January.

Overall, the SureShell carrier from Mesa Tactical is a pricey but worth while for any home defense shotgun.  It's a buy once, cry once kind of upgrade that should take the same degree of beating as the host shotgun can withstand.

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame:  The Mesa Tactical SureShell Side Saddle is a rugged, reliable on-gun shotshell carrier

Target Market: Shotgun owners (home defense, security/LEO, hunting)

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 12 or 20 gauge

  • Elastomer friction retention holds shells in place

  • Machined from 6061-T6 Aluminum

  • Hard coat anodized black

  • Comes with or without a picatinny rail

  • Mounts via shotgun receiver pin holes or tapped receivers

  • Compatible with Mesa buttstocks are forends

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: available is 8, 6, 4 and 4 shell capacity for 12 or 20 gauge shells

What others are saying?: "Bought this for my Remington 870 Express Tactical. Mounting was very simple and involved removing the two action pins which hold the 870 trigger group in place. The pins are replaced by double ended screws (Chicago screws) that tighten from both directions. These, in combination with a thin rubber adhesive strip allow the mount to fit snugly to the weapon without damaging the finish. They hold on to shells very tightly from either a primer-up or primer-down position. Only difficulty is with the rubber retainer piece. When loading the side saddle, the rubber tends to squish around and twist, making remaining shells a bit tricky to load. If this happens, DO NOT FORCE THE SHELLS IN! This may damage the rubber and deform it considerably. I figured out that if you twist shells while sliding them in, they go in smoothly without binding up the rubber retainer. Knowing that, this thing is good to go! Durable, made of aluminum, and fits well. Definitely would use it on my other shotguns." Amazon User Review

Price point:

I need it now! Availability: Mesa Tactical or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Comes with two Santoprene® Elastomer tubes for variable stiffness/retention
  • Aluminum rings don't wear out like all plastic carriers
  • Doesn't cover up the serial number
  • Mesa has more replacement Santoprene tubes for free upon request

Cons:

  • Elastomer tube insert can warp if shells are inserted too hard

Score: 7.5 Good

 

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

Griffin Armament M² Sight Deployment Kit

There are two kinds of companies: those that make a product just to sell, and those that make products they want to use themselves, because they recognize the hole in the marketplace and the need that's there. Griffin Armament is one of the latter type, and they design some of the most forward-thinking products in the industry.

There are a lot of back up iron sights out there, with their own differences and improvements over their predecessors. Some are fixed, some are collapsable. Some are in-line with the top rail, others are offset to be used in conjunction with a long, magnified optic. If you own an AR-15 or other modern sporting rifle, you probably like to try different optics and different configurations every now and then, which means accruing a junk drawers worth of different iron sight sets.

The hole in the marketplace is that there wasn't one pair of iron sights that were flexible enough to do-it-all. That, and nearly every offset sight on the market is designed to hang off the right side of the gun, leaving lefties out completely. Well, the guys over at Griffin Armament were pondering the same problems, and as a solution came out with their Micro Modular Back Up Sights.

Also known simply at M² Sights, they are flip up front and rear iron sights that mate with a dovetail-like base, secured together and tightened with a set screw. The use of the dovetailed joint allows for easy swapping between inline and offset, and also the reversal of the offset bases for either left or right handed shooters. The vertical set screw method is best way to secure the sight in place, while doing away with any unnecessary bulk that comes from a clamping design.

The M² Sights don't have a spring-loaded rapid deployment feature, but its not needed in my opinion.

Should the need arise for iron sights, it only takes a few seconds to manual pull the front and rear sights up in the ready position.

Not having an mechanical flip up feature also does away with extra moving parts, and thus removes variables that could fail. A simpler design can be a stronger and more reliable solution, and that's exactly what you want if your life depends on your rifle, and your iron sights are all you got.

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The inline configuration of the M² Sights has the traditional M16 sight picture, except for the partially exposed threads of A2 front sight post.

Cowitnessing is just like it should be through a red dot optic, however the fixed aperture of the rear sight is a bit small for my preference in short range work, but it still works fine. Not having a dual aperture removes some utility, but its an acceptable compromise for a strong, solid construction. What really matters is the total height above the rail when the rear is folded, for optimal clearance of magnified optics. Folded, the rear sight is only 0.525" at its tallest point. This is plenty low enough to clear most magnified optics mounted at the appropriate height for AR-15s / AR-10s. For comparison, Magpul BUIS polymer rear sights also measure 0.525" tall when folded.

The real beauty of the whole M² Sight Deployment Kit is the angled plates that come in the bundle. The bases are ambidextrous, so you can position the dovetailed base offset on the left or right side of the rail. They are affixed to the rail via two set screws instead of just one, and only take up the smallest amount of rail space possible.

Both rear and front M² sights are windage adjustable. The front sight utilizes the A2 front sight post, so obviously its elevation adjustable as well. Using the existing pool of aftermarket A2 posts is a no brainer, and easy to replace with your favorite blade, even tritium equipped ones for low light use.

The M² Sight Deployment Kit is a well thought out backup iron sight system that fixes several issues that experiences guys have been wanted resolved. It combines the aesthetics of the more minimal backup sights like that of the FN SCAR, while using a modular attachment system previously unseen on a sight itself. Plus, they look to be one of the tankiest low profile iron sets I've come across. That, coupled with the angled ambidextrous bases that come included, make it a 'buy once, never buy again' upgrade.

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame:  Griffin M2 sights offer an industry first, patent pending, modular base plate system and were designed to be the correct product for every backup sight application. 

Target Market: Modern Sporting Rifle / Modular Rifle owners (AR-15s, SCARs, etc)

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Constructed from 17-4 stainless and ordnance grade steel materials
  • Melonite QPQ and Manganese Phosphate finish
  • Front sight compatible with mil-spec posts
  • Included angle plates are ambidextrous

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Black Only

What others are saying?: "Great sights. Very well made and designed. They are small enough not catch on everything, especially in a crowded gun safe. They mounted easily and securely and the rear sight fits nicely around the forward assist. Deployment is quick and sure with a solid lock. Sight adjustment is fast and easy. Because of the design you can adjust elevation at the front sight without the use of a bullet tip. All you need to do is depress the pin with a thumbnail. I am very happy with this purchase and will buy other Griffin Armament products because the quality is excellent." Amazon User Review

Price point:

I need it now! Availability: Griffin Armament or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Easily convertible to inline or offset configurations
  • Ambidextrous offset sights! Finally!
  • A2 front sight post compatible
  • Rear sights are windage adjustable

Cons:

  • Detents are really stiff at first
  • Fixed small aperture in rear sight

Score: 8.5 Great

 

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

 

Kinect QD MLOK Mounts by Kinetic Development Group

AR-15s were popular before, but after the proliferation of modular accessory attachment systems like M-LOK, the interest in the platform keeps on skyrocketing.

If you are a listener of the Gun & Gear Review Podcast, then you are aware of my affinity with the M-LOK system over Keymod. Gone are the days of skin grating, bulky quad railed handguards being the status quo. The ability to attach rail segments and other accessories to your firearm so quickly is a perfect match for the reigning king of modularity, the AR-15 modern sporting rifle. I just happen to believe M-LOK is more secure and reliable, and the industry seems to be leaning that way as well.

M-LOK did away with full picatinny quad-rail handguards. Now the Kinect QD rail does away with the allen wrench.

Of course for a society thats accustomed to instant gratification, the appeal of speeding up efficiency is too tempting. Lets face it, we all lust for convenience. Sure M-LOK accessories are quick to attach, but you must have the right Allen wrench or hex key on your person, and a few other variables just right in order to attach anything under 60 seconds. When a new technology comes along that removes the need for the tool, and cuts the time down on any manual labor, its going to be a potential home-run.

What seems like an invention straight out of James Bond's Q Labs, the spring loaded wedges that activate upon contact with the host M-LOK rail is pretty clever.

The Kinect QD Mount by Kinetic Development Group is an almost perfect evolution for M-LOK furniture. You no longer need to keep the proper tool inside your pistol grip or in your range bag to remove and swap accessories on your rifles. Not only that, but it also removes the possibility of over tightening screws and T-nuts entirely, as well as the need to remove accessories from rail segments in order to access the screws of the rail sections themselves.

The beauty of Kinect is it converts ordinary picatinny-compatible accessories into M-LOK.

Operation of the Kinect rails are so simple, they're almost idiot-proof. There are two spring-loaded wedges in the base of the mount, and when you press the Kinect down in the M-LOK slot, two very tiny triggers get pressed against the surface and deploy the wedges into place. Thats it! You know the wedges are deployed correctly when the tabs on the opposing sides fully extend. When you want to remove the Kinect, just pinch the tabs back inward to release the tabs.

Using the Kinect, adding and swapping accessories really is a "snap." You can have one bipod to swap around to each one of your rifles... or your favorite foregrip, flashlight, etc. Customization and personalization is so huge in the firearms industry, and the ability to truly snap on and off whatever you want on all your M-LOK compatible guns is a real improvement to manually loosening and tightening each screw one by one. That means you don't need to buy duplicates of your favorite accessories for multiple rifles. Also, it saves a lot of space inside your gun safe if you can easily pull off accessories when you're storing your rifle.

Accessories like lights and bipod can be easily attached, moved around or swapped within seconds.

The reason I said "almost perfect" early is because the compatibility with some of Magpul's most popular M-LOK furniture is severely hit and miss. The problem is the polymer products with M-LOK slots are not built to the same tolerances as their metal counterparts, by necessity. Many of the polymer M-LOK products on the market have to be thicker to support glass filled polymer rail systems.  KDG's Kinect system was designed around the original specs set by Magpul Industries for a rail thickness of .080″ and .125″ thick. Current specifications for M-LOK are a thickness of .080 to .150.″ What's all this mean? It means theres a strong change the Kinect won't work if you are using Magpul's Hunter 700 or X-22 Stock, MOE handguards, and other furniture constructed of that glass filled polymer.

For example, lets try the Magpul SGA Forend for Remington 870 and Mossberg 500/590 shotguns. The Kinect can attach to the side M-LOK slots (3 and 9 o'clock), but not the bottom slots (6 o'clock) because the walls are just a bit thicker on the underside - probably to withstand recoil forces as well as the forces from working the action back and forth if using a polymer M-LOK rail section with a vertical or angle foregrip.

Step One: Make sure both end's tabs pushed in, and align with preferred M-LOK slot.

Step Two: Push firmly down in the center of the rail, to be sure even pressure is applied on both sides. You'll know the Kinect is locked in place properly if both tabs fully deploy outward.

When you want to reposition or remove the Kinect, just squeeze both tabs in and pull the whole accessory off. Its really easy and effortless.

Accepting of all that, KDG doesn't guarantee the KINECT will work every polymer M-LOK product.  Keep in mind that polymer can be modded to work with some files or a Dremel tool, but good luck retaining precise dimensions within the specs.  Your best bet is to measure the thickness of the polymer thickness before ordering, or bring a Kinect with you to the store and try it if the staff doesn't mind. Luckily, KDG does offer a 30 day return policy (for store credit) if you have purchased a Kinect mount and it doesn't work with your desired M-LOK furniture.

In my opinion, KDG should really just manufacture a second Kinect line with redesigned wedges that specifically work for polymer furniture. With the popularity of Magpul's polymer products, the market for a QD rail that works with polymer forends should be substantial enough to justify it. I imagine KDG has had this conversation already at the drawing table, so perhaps I'm wrong.

With the Kinect it's easy to go overboard. But the real strength is not having to buy duplicate accessories for multiple rifles, just snap on and snap off whenever you want to change things up.

Personally, I feel upgrading your polymer M-LOK handguard to an aluminum one with the M-LOK system has plenty of merits on its own, and then you could fully enjoy the use of the Kinect QD Rail without issue.  Its my opinion than KDG has changed the whole dynamic of the M-LOK system with the Kinect QD mount, and it is my hope that with more Kinect product variations, other manufacturers in the industry will chose M-LOK for their handguards and rifle chassis over lesser, phallus-shaped mounting solutions. The saying "AR-15s are like LEGOs for adults" definitely becomes more true as you add some Kinect mounts to your collection.

Firearms Insider Reviews – 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  The Kinect™ by KDG for M-LOK™ is a revolutionary QD mounting system that will change the way we attach accessories to our modular weapons platforms

Target Market: Modern Sporting Rifle / Modular Rifle owners (AR-15s, SCARs, etc)

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Length: 3 Slot= 1.68″ (uses one M-LOK hole) 7 Slot= 3.73″ (uses two M-LOK holes)
  • Width: 0.82″
  • Height (Over M-LOK surface): .41″
  • Compatibility: Compatible with any M-LOK rail system.
  • Weight: 0.8oz

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Black Anodized Only. Bipod swivel stud and offset mounts are also available.

What others are saying?: "This is by far and above the best and most convenient way to attach anything to your rifle. No more Allen wrenches and more importantly, no more searching for those wrenches when you want to reconfigure your rifle. If you're like me, I share accessories between my many rifles and the ability to pull attachments off and simply stick them on another rail in less that 30 seconds with no tools is just the best. Because of kinetic development group's Kinect system, all of my rifles are M-LOK." Brownells User Review

Price point:

I need it now! Availability: Brownells or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Easy to attach, turns any picatinny accessory into M-LOK
  • Works on all sides of the handguard with M-LOK slots
  • Secure and solid attachment
  • Removes risk of over tightening / damaging the handguard

Cons:

  • Unlocking tabs on opposing ends of mount need clearance to use, takes up additional rail space 
  • Not compatible with all polymer MLOK furniture (check all sides, manufactures beef up thicknesses of some walls)

Score: 7.5 Good

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Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

Safeguard Clothing CoolMax IIIA Body Armor

The CoolMax IIIA vest is a soft armor vest, very similar to what undercover agents and security guards wear on the job.

The CoolMax IIIA vest is a soft armor vest, very similar to what undercover agents and security guards wear on the job.

Shortly after the development of the sword, came the birth of the shield. By nature offense and defense make up the balance of conflict. However in today's world for the average concealed carrier, half the equation is missing. Its purely a "shoot first, don't get shot" paradigm that relies on the element of surprise or who is the quicker draw to win a confrontation with an armed aggressor. For those who actually go through training to receive their concealed weapon licenses, the only real defense taught is using cover to block bullets while firing your weapon at the attacker. The problem is, the availability of an object suitable as cover is entirely based on your environment, and unless you have sufficient training to react 100% correctly in a shooting scenario, you could end up taking a hit.

The vest easily adjusts for different torso sizes via elastic waistbands with hook and loop fasteners.

The vest easily adjusts for different torso sizes via elastic waistbands with hook and loop fasteners.

This problem has often interested me, as someone who carries concealed on a daily basis and takes an active stance on personal protection. Body armor is the obvious solution, but systems like heavy steel plates and military grade carriers are bulky and entirely overkill unless you are in the armed services in an active theater, or as a first responder to law enforcement. For the Average Joe body armor isn't practical to wear everyday, and you would be hard-pressed to find many people who keep a form of body armor in their vehicle or in the home for easy access incase of an emergency involving a violent attacker.

The Safeguard Clothing vest can easily be work over clothes and under light to heavy jackets.

The Safeguard Clothing vest can easily be work over clothes and under light to heavy jackets.

Another factor to consider, is body armor often carries a stigma similar to the firearm its designed to protect against. What would happen if you wore body armor while you ran out to the grocery store? It's not a common thing to see a civilian wearing armor casually in public, so it will surely draw attention. The majority of people will assume you are prepared for initiating violence or committing robbery, and then resisting an armed response. Others will ask if you are a cop or with law enforcement, and a "no" answer will prompt the previous assumption. Pretty much the same assumptions uninformed bystanders make about seeing someone open-carrying a sidearm in public. It's ironic, as a ballistic vest itself is not a weapon... however the act of wearing one in public will only raise eyebrows and suspicions faster than you can say "Tactical Timmy."

Thats why I was particularly interested in the body armor made by Safeguard Clothing. Similar to what hostage negotiators or undercover officers wear in real life (or when portrayed on TV), their vests can be worn under clothing comfortably for long periods of time. Wearing armor that is ballistically rated is the best way to ensure you don't die from a gunshot wound if you are involved in a shooting (assuming you weren't shot in the face or other unprotected area without receiving medical treatment).

The kevlar panel is removable from the carrier for inspection and replacement.

The kevlar panel is removable from the carrier for inspection and replacement.

The CoolMax IIIA Bullet and Stab Proof Vest is designed to be affordable and attainable by the average civilian. The internal Kevlar armor panels are refurbished, which is how SafeGuard is able to sell them at a reduced price. This factor isn't entirely apparent to the average consumer, and is only hinted at in the product description via the bullet point: "Armor worth over $470 when new." Imagine shopping for a truck at a dealership glancing over the fineprint to see "Vehicle worth over $20,000 when new" but there wasn't a USED sticker on the windshield.

My vest is rated NIJ Level IIIA against ballistic projectiles, and Level 1 against edge blades.

My vest is rated NIJ Level IIIA against ballistic projectiles, and Level 1 against edge blades.

Admittedly this troubled me at first, but after speaking with Communications Manager at SafeGuard, I learned the whole story. SafeGuard Clothing refurbishes vests by inspecting, extracting and testing armor panels from ex-contract vests sold to larger organizations from the Safeguard Armor brand. Those organizations tend to purchase new vests once the warranty has expired, so the armor is essentially recycled and resold under the SafeGuard Clothing brand at a lower price point to reach a different market. I was assured the Kevlar panels used in the refurbished vests are inspected and tested to ensure they have not been damaged in any way which compromise meeting the stated level of protection.

The carrier is washable and has care instructions sewn to the inside. DO NOT WASH WITH PANELS!

The carrier is washable and has care instructions sewn to the inside. DO NOT WASH WITH PANELS!

With that out of the way, I'd like to point out the real benefits that the CoolMax IIIA vest has to offer. Starting with protection, the panels of this vest are ballistically rated by the NIJ (National Institute of Justice) to protect against most pistol calibers up to 44 magnum. This includes 380ACP, 9MM, 45ACP, 40SW, 38SPL, and 22LR/SHORT. The panels also have an edged weapon rating of Level 1, which is a baseline level for knife resistance and spike protection. Basically it is rated for a object with a mass of 1.9 kg traveling a maximum of 5 m/s, and totaling 24 joules of energy. This is the E1 figure, which like I said is the baseline for edge weapons, and there are higher levels of protection in better armor, especially if its designed for stab protection and not ballistic protection as well.

The carrier is crafted with comfort in mind, including the soft trim around the neck.

The carrier is crafted with comfort in mind, including the soft trim around the neck.

The beauty to this vest design is it's comfort. If you aren't wearing the vest because its hot, heavy, and overall uncomfortable... then it does not do you any good whatsoever! The Safeguard vest is lower profile than other ballistic vests, and is perfectly suited to be worn underneath clothing or on top. I have worn this vest in particular for a several days, only removing it for bathing and sleeping. Unless you are wearing it under thin fabrics like thin polyester athletic shirts or light jackets, the added bulk is very unnoticeable. Often I would just wear a zippered hoodie over it, and no one was the wiser. While wearing it, I was able to drive, walk around, and do some light jogging without any severe hinderances. It does take awhile to get used to the sensation of wearing the vest, but after about the 3rd or 4th day I found myself forgetting it was on underneath my jacket.

The CoolMax material is a soft mesh, designed to ventilate and keep the body from overheating.

The CoolMax material is a soft mesh, designed to ventilate and keep the body from overheating.

The real reason why this vest in particular is well suited for concealed wearing under another garment is the CoolMAX lining. The poly-cotton mesh netting helps with breathability and thus the evaporation of sweat, keeping the wearer cool when in a warm environment. The layers also help retain body heat, thus helping you keep warm when in colder climates. I'm normally very prone to getting overheated even with light layers of clothing, but I found wearing the CoolMax vest I did not sweat that much.

When sized correctly, the back panel should overlap the front panel to provide protection over the sides of the torso.

When sized correctly, the back panel should overlap the front panel to provide protection over the sides of the torso.

The outer shell of the vest is made of Cordura fabric, which is highly used in the firearms industry for its scratch resistance and incredibly durable. It does not have any "tactical" features such as MOLLE Webbing or straps for adding accessories. I actually like this simplicity, as it only makes it easier to conceal, but if I had thrown the vest on over my street clothes, it looks far more non-threatening than a fully kitted out vest.   

The low thickness and unhindered movement the vest provides allows for easy shouldering of a rifle as well as pistol stances, unlike hard body armor with steel plates.

The low thickness and unhindered movement the vest provides allows for easy shouldering of a rifle as well as pistol stances, unlike hard body armor with steel plates.

Overall, I would highly recommend the CoolMax Ballistic Vest to anyone looking for an affordable, no frills level of protection to add to their everyday carry system, or as a first response vest to keep in your vehicle or place of work. Although the term refurbished doesn't inspire confidence when applied to ballistic protection, don't let it fool you. These vests are extremely affordable and functional, and I would rather be wearing one when encountered with an armed attacker then not have one at all. If your opponent brings a sword to a swordfight, bring a sword AND a shield. You're chances of surviving drastically go up.

Firearms Insider Reviews – 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  The Covert/Overt Bullet Proof Vest is suitable to wear underneath or on top of clothing in all climates, and offers advanced poly-cotton netting to help excessive heat escape for ease and comfort amongst all conditions.

Target Market: Civilians seeking affordable and comfortable body armor

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Ballistic Level: NIJ Level IIIa, 6mm thickness
  • Stab (Edged Blade) Level: Level 1
  • Made from DuPont Kevlar®
  • Ultra Lightweight
  • Delivered in 1-2 working days
  • Weight: Approx. 5.5lbs
  • Armor worth over $470 when new
  • Brand New Covert/Overt Cover worth $100
  • Available in sizes S, M, L, XL, XXL
  • Available in lengths short, normal, and long
  • Lightweight Bullet & Stab Proof Vest
  • Armor comes with a 1 year warranty
  • Outer vest carriers are covered with a 1 year warranty against any manufacturer faults.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Black in color, various protection levels available

What others are saying?: "I believe the quality of the product gives this vest an edge versus other “cookie cutter” budget armor that is available on the market today. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend SafeGuard Clothing, or to use their products. In fact, I use the Covert/Overt vest at my full-time job. I would never endorse an armor product unless I would use and trust my life with it, and this vest is no exception. From versatility to conceal-ability and quality to price, this “budget” vest is a great value and has you covered. Literally." We Like Shooting Review

Price point:

  • Retail: $390

I need it now! Availability: Direct from SafeGuard Clothing

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Able to wear underneath a jacket, sweatshirt, etc OR over clothing
  • Easy to throw on under duress, elastic side straps with velcro easy to secure and tighten quickly
  • CoolMax lining keeps body cool via airflow when in warm climate, and helps retain body heat when working in colder climate
  • Does not impede range of motion
  • Coverage includes sternum to above belly button, as well as sides of torso when worn correctly
  • When using correct length, user is still able to conceal carry IWB or AIWB
  • Carrier is machine washable
  • Kevlar panels can be removed for replacement

Cons:

  • The refurbished condition of the inner Kevlar armor is downplayed in product description
  • No expiration date is given for armor. Typically after 10 years Kevlar should be replaced, but if this armor is reused from preexisting vests, how old are they really?

Score: 7.5 Good

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Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

LA Police Gear MOLLE Elite Tactical Christmas Stocking

This is the coolest item to get a firearm enthusiast for Christmas!

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: Ultra Super Deluxe version! Bring some tactical cheer to your fireplace, foxhole, police department, or forward operating base!

Target Market:  Christmas Stocking users of all ages

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Vertical zipper opening
  • Rubber Carry Handle
  • MOLLE webbing
  • 2 Swivel hanger clip
  • Small marsupial pouch
  • 3" x 4" Velcro for morale patches

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black, Coyote, OD Green

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"I expected something cheaply made, but this is better than I expected. The only complaint I have is the spacing on the MOLLE straps isn't correct, but it's not like I'm taking it into combat, so that's small potatoes. Otherwise, I'm happy with this at the price point." - Customer Review

PRICE POINT:

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Accepts addition pouches via MOLLE webbing
  • Carry handle for heavy hauls
  • Linkable for multiple stockings
  • Smaller marsupial pouch does work with morale patches with hook backing

Cons:

  • Marsupial pouch is tiny and almost useless
  • Carry handle overlaps and covers up patches
  • Non-reversable

SCORE: 8.5 GREAT

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

Athlon Argos BTR 8-34x56 Riflescope

34x in a rifle scope? The Athlon Argos BTR brings alot of power to the table.

When it comes to scopes for long range shooting, I tend to not stray away from the brands and models I'm used to, and I can imagine there are more than a few of you that would feel the same. Admittedly, I usually turn my nose up at anything thats not a higher tier Leupold, Vortex or Nightforce. However, my snobbery may have just been put in check, because I've given a completely different brand a test drive, and so far I really like what I see. Pun intended.

I've never really heard of Athlon before, but a good friend (and Athlon dealer) convinced me to give their Argos BTR scope a try. I happened to be in the market for a new scope to sit atop a .300 Win Mag, a Remington 700 LR that I built for my father. Initially I had mounted a Vortex Viper with a BDC reticle on this rifle, but my old man had trouble seeing the fine crosshairs when looking at anything that wasn't a white wall. So I was looking for a thicker reticle that would be easier for his aging eyes to pick up, but also fully capable of taking pokes out to 1,000 yards and further.

The Argos BTR has features usually reserved for higher end scope lines at 3 times the price.

Having exclusively used Vortex optics on my rifles for the last 5 years, I had thought they were the reigning champions of "best bang-for-your-buck" in the optics market. Their scopes had introduced me to higher quality glass and high end features, and as long as I was shelling out less than a grand, I was happy. I was, until I found out this Argos BTR had some of the same features and damn near comparable glass, for under four hundred dollars. I wish I had known about them sooner, then I could have budgeted my build for other higher quality parts like a slicker bipod setup, trigger, etc.

The rotation of the magnification ring and the illumination dial are smooth and tight.

I'll start off with the glass itself. The Argos BTR has two coatings on the lenses, a multi-coat to increase image brightness and clarity at dusk and dawn when the light is dimmest, and a XPL coating to protect the lens surfaces from dirt, grease and other gunk. The multi-coating treatment is supposed to reduce reflected light and increases the transmission of light, resulting in a brighter image compared to a normal single coated lens.

The turrets of the MIL Argos BTR are 1/10 MIL per click, and the turrets have detents for audible and tangible increments.

With a magnification range of 8-34, I was pretty skeptical at the performance at the higher range. Trust me, it was the first thing I had to check for myself. It's not as good as an actual spotting scope, but with 34x you could just about leave the spotting scope in the truck. I found that at 34x colors and edges did degrade to a slight degree, but backed down between 20-24x images returned to what I expect. The Argos BTR also has side parallax adjustment, a feature I insist on having on all my riflescopes, that lets you dial the focus to the distance you are scanning, so details are as crisp as can be.

The reticle itself is called the APMR FFP IR MIL reticle, and besides being a mouthful its actually one of the easiest to digest MIL reticles I've seen. Most manufacturers use some sort of MILRAD reticle thats so complicated and busy, you feel like you need to take a special forces sniper class just to understand it and really "know it like the back of your hand." I believe thats what deters a lot of new rifle shooters from learning the MIL system and instead go with MOA since it can be easier to wrap your mind around for a civilian who is used to shooting at fixed distances at the range. The Argos BTR 8-34x56 is available in MOA configuration, but for the sake of the review I will only discuss my scope in hand which is MIL.

Parallax on long range scopes should be mandatory, and the Argos BTR delivers.

The IR of the aforementioned mouthful stands for illuminated reticle, and it's become a standard feature on many higher end scopes over the past several years. While it may seem like a gimmick to the traditionalist, I have taken two blacktail deer, two years in a row, and both times I had switched the illumination on to get better contrast off the dark, wet fur of October bucks. The contrast is a big benefit to instantly turn on, especially if the distance of the shot requires use of drop marks and legibility is critical. The IR turret was a little stiff for my liking right out of the box, but it did get smoother over time with use. Obviously this would be a crucial area for moisture to penetrate the optic, so tight tolerances are fully appreciated.

The APMR FFP IR MIL reticle is etched on the glass, a common practice that allows for a complex reticle design as well as much higher shock resistance to recoil. The numbers 2, 4, 6, and 8 are marked thick enough to read easily.  There are half mil hash mark increments between the center and 7 mil marks, and finer 0.2 mil hash marks between the 7 mil to 9 mil marks on the left, right and bottom lines. That make using hold-overs a snap, as well as using more accurate hold over adjustments at longer ranges where small errors lead to larger misses. The whole reticle spans 18 mils... well, until you zoom in past 20x magnification. Being a first focal plane scope (FFP) means the reticle gets larger as you zoom in. After 20x the reticle begins to crop, and at the highest power setting of 34x a span of 9 mils is left within view, leaving 4.5 mils usable for left, right, up or down holds.

Excuse the camera focus on the following images, photographing through a scope is harder than it looks.

The lowest magnification setting, 8x power on a 200 yard stump (left) and illuminated (right)

24x power on a 200 yard stump (left) and illuminated (right). Notice the reticle grows to fill the circle.

34x power on a 200 yard stump (left) and illuminated (right). The First Focal Plane causes the reticle to crop in to 9 MILS across.

The benefit to first focal plane is the subtensions remain true at every magnification range. After getting into FFP scopes a few years ago, I definitely prefer them over SFP (second focal plane) where the reticle's drop measurements are only true when you're zoomed in on the maximum magnification. If you are hunting, and need to take a long shot on an animal that requires using the reticles ballistic compensation system, the subtensions should be accurate no matter what power the magnification is on, for an ethical attempt to be made. Even if your at the range or in a competition where time and score matters, the same remains true. If you need to engage a target quickly. the lower magnification power offers a shrunken reticle with finer detail that still retains precise holdover marks.

The Argos BTR is constructed of a 6061T6 aircraft grade one-piece aluminum tube. I'm told the tube is heat treated to give the body extra strength. The one piece design is used to keep the scope mechanically strong, as well as "proofed" against the conditions that will ruin a scope and your day just as easily. Athlon argon purges their scopes to push any moisture out of the tube during manufacturing, which helps with waterproofing in case the scope is exposed to rain or even accidentally submerged. The purging also helps give the scope stability in different temperatures, preventing a buildup of fog when you emerge from a toasty truck or wall tent into the brisk morning air.

Something to note: the built-in stubby magnification level can impede the bolt knob if using medium rings and your knob is enlarged (insert medical joke here)

On the bench, sighting in the Argos BTR on the .300wm test rifle was a breeze. I did have to go out and get taller rings, I usually run mediums with 50mm scopes to get the bell really close to the barrel, but for the 56mm of the Argos BTR, high rings were needed. The turrets have tangible detents you can feel as your turning them, and the "click" of each turn is audible. The turrets are engraved with hashes, however they didn't quite line up with the engraved reference lines on the scope if your eye is lined up perfectly down the tube. Have no fear, its an easy fix. Once your rifle is zeroed at the range, loosen the screws atop both turrets and pop the caps off, realigning the "0" on the engraved reference line, and reinstall the screws. The lines should be lining up correctly if you did your job right. I love this feature on rifle scopes, because if you use your turrets to make adjustments for wind and elevation conditions, you can return to zero afterwards. There is no zero stop however, so you will have to mentally keep track of how many rotations of the turret you made in order to return to zero.

The Argos BTR 8-34x56mm is a hellova scope for its pricetag. The value speaks for itself.

Overall I would say this is a fantastic scope for a precision rifle budget build, or even on a hunting rifle thats capable of longer ranges. It does have some weight at over 32 ounces, so I wouldn't recommend it on a featherweight mountain rifle or a range toy like a sporter AR-15 or other carbine. If you are wanting to learn the milliradian system and get the right scope to learn on, this scope is a great candidate. If you are wanting an iron clad warranty like the other big optic brands, rest easy because Athlon products are lifetime warranted against defects and workmanship. They guarantee to repair or replace your optic for no charge if it is damaged through normal use, with no receipt or no registration needed. So while that doesn't mean you can deliberately run it over in the parking lot, you can be confident they'll back their products should you have an issue. 

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: For those of you that are just getting started in the PRS or are looking to start, take a close look at the Argos BTR family of scopes.

Target Market:  Precision / Long range shooters

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 8-34 Magnification
  • 56 mm Objective Lens Diameter
  • 30 mm Tube Diameter
  • Reticle APMR FFP IR MIL, Glass Etched
  • First Focal Plane Reticle
  • Illuminated Reticle
  • Matte Surface Finish
  • Wide Band Fully Multicoated Lens Coating
  • Xtra Protective Coating Extra Coating
  • 6061 Aluminium Tube Material, Heat Treated One Piece Tube Construction
  • 7-1.7 mm Exit Pupil
  • 3.3 inches Eye Relief
  • 12.5-3 feet Field of View @100 yards
  • 0.1MIL Click Value
  • 5MIL Adjustment range per rotation
  • 13 MIL Total Elevation Adjustment
  • 13 MIL Total Windage Adjustment
  • Exposed Turret Style
  • Side Focus Parallax Adjustment – 15 yards to infinity
  • 15.5 inches Length
  • 32.2 ounces Weight
  • Waterproof
  • Fog proof
  • Shockproof
  • Argon Purged
  • Athlon Gold Medal Lifetime Warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  MIL or MOA reticle / turrets

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"I have it mounted on a 6.5 Creedmoor and have shot out to 1018 yards. Overall I am pretty happy with my purchase, I did not expect anything special as a high quality scope with this kind of magnification would be almost 10X the cost.
Pros:
Descent glass with etched reticle and FFP (Means you can use the MOA or MRAD hash marks at any magnification level). You get a clear picture out to about 24X.
Illuminated reticle that works well. Have not tested much in low light.
Adjustable turrets that seem to hold zero.
Lifetime warranty.
Low cost for that much optic.
Cons:
Image starts to get a little fuzzy and color distorted past about 24X magnification, but still visible. I like to shoot with it at about 2X and zoom in to see my shots with the 34X.
The turrets have very soft clicks and are sometimes difficult to feel. At least on mine the lines on the turret and on the scope do not match up. It stops about half way between the two.
For all you who are looking to do some serious long range shooting here is the biggest problem. It is a 30mm tube, which is fine for most shooting but when you get out at 800+ yards the recoil of the gun throws the scope off target and because the FOV is so small with that 30mm tube it is difficult to get back on to see your hit. I have done it at 1018 yards but it is a fight. If you want something for really long range you'll want to look at a 40 or 50mm tube. But those scopes are very very expensive.
Overall:
Good purchase, just understand that it is a cheap scope. I feel like you get more than what you pay for but you really are not getting even an $800 Vortex, let alone a Swarovski." - Amazon Review

PRICE POINT:

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website or Pershing Armory, Amazon, or Optics Planet

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Finish is tough and wear resistant
  • Magnification ring turns smooth with not too much resistance
  • Magnification ring has a raised nub for leverage, not too big to snag like a throw lever
  • Turrets can be re-zeroed

Cons:

  • Clarity gets slightly hazy past 24x
  • No zero stop for returning to zero
  • Built in magnification lever can impede aftermarket bolt knobs (zoomed to 8-9x)

SCORE: 8.0 GREAT

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

Magpul Hunter X-22 Stock

The Hunter X-22 is my new go-to aftermarket stock for the 10/22 rifle

The Hunter X-22 is my new go-to aftermarket stock for the 10/22 rifle

By now everyone should know how much I enjoy Magpul products. Trouble is, after you find out which buttstock, grips and accessories are your favorite, you may run out AR-15s and AK-47s to install them on. But in 2015 Magpul branched out into two other rifle markets - the Remington 700 and the Ruger 10/22. Of course I had to give both Hunter stocks a try, and after using them heavily for over a year, I'm finally ready to weigh in.

The X-22 is a rock solid upgrade from the factory plastic stock that feels like a BB gun.

The X-22 is a rock solid upgrade from the factory plastic stock that feels like a BB gun.

Not to anyone's surprise, the Hunter X-22 for the Ruger 10/22 is my new favorite stock for the rifle. It's not an overtly "tacticool" stock with the intention of looking aggressive or militarized with extra frills and chintzy features. It is a hybrid sporting/hunting design, and more importantly, fairly ergonomic. A stock that looks cool but does not facilitate a natural comfort when shouldered in a standing, prone or supported position is completely pointless. The Ruger 10/22 is capable of repeatable tack-driving accuracy, even in its factory configuration. It deserves a rock solid stock that doesn't detract from its accuracy or consistency.

The buttstock of the X-22 mirrors the SGA stock available for shotguns.

The buttstock of the X-22 mirrors the SGA stock available for shotguns.

The recoil pads feel rugged enough for magnum calibers, overkill for rimfire but still welcome.

The recoil pads feel rugged enough for magnum calibers, overkill for rimfire but still welcome.

The Hunter X-22 is made from the same high quality reinforced polymer as other Magpul products such as the PMAG and MOE furniture.  The buttstock itself is almost identical to the SGA shotgun stock, and is compatible with SGA cheek risers (sold separately) if you need extra comb height. The length of pull is also adjustable using the supplied half inch spacers. Without any spacers installed, the X-22's length of pull is 12.5" at its shortest, and 14.5" at it's longest. The recoil pad is a dense rubber which is just fine for a rimfire.

The grip angle of the X-22 is well designed and feels right pronated or on the bench.

The grip angle of the X-22 is well designed and feels right pronated or on the bench.

The grip has a very ergonomic angle with a nice surface texture on both sides, and horizontal trench lines in the front. It has a sloping toe at the base of the grip that prevents your hand from slipping down or off, which may limit those with larger fingers from getting all four on the grip... but at least all three fingers will fit for sure.

The reversible barrel tray accommodates both tapered and bull barrels.

The reversible barrel tray accommodates both tapered and bull barrels.

Remove the tray by gently prying from the action area, or pushing up from the MLOK slots.

Remove the tray by gently prying from the action area, or pushing up from the MLOK slots.

The best features of the stock are the customizable configurations. The popularity of the Ruger 10/22 comes from the availability of aftermarket parts and the ease of installing them at home without a gunsmithing degree. The barrel is one of the first things often modified, and the taper and diameter of the barrel is a big variable that often affects installing any new stock. Luckily, Magpul has a clever work around to be 99% compatible with aftermarket barrels, and that is their reversible barrel tray. One side of the tray has a tapered channel to accommodate factory pencil profile barrels, while the opposite side's channel is much wider to fit most heavy bull barrels. The tray itself sits snuggly in the forearm and is easy to remove with the right leverage. In fact, removing the tray is a good way to access any MLOK accessories mounted at the 6 oclock position, ensuring the T-nuts are oriented and tightened correctly.

After removing the barrel tray for taking photos, I saw just how much damage I had done by incorrectly tightening the MLOK hardware.

After removing the barrel tray for taking photos, I saw just how much damage I had done by incorrectly tightening the MLOK hardware.

This pictures shows what can go wrong if you leave the barrel tray in the stock, and attempt to tighten MLOK accessories blindly and haphazardly. The polymer is soft enough to become marred and worn around the slot openings if the MLOK T-nuts are overtightened when not oriented properly. Unfortunately, you cannot add accessories to the left or right side MLOK slots with the barrel tray removed, because the protruding screws with prevent the tray from being reinserted. So be sure to preset the gap between the MLOK T-nuts and the accessory to the thickness of the forearm walls, so that upon tightening the screw the T-nut rotates 90 degrees and stops when the screw is torqued correctly.

Two detents are pre-made on the underside for screwing in traditional swivel studs.

Two detents are pre-made on the underside for screwing in traditional swivel studs.

The MLOK system is great for attaching slings and other accessories. For slings, you can either attach a QD swivel mount, paraclip or other attachment point via MLOK or MLOK rail segments on the 3 oclock or 9 oclock positions of the forearm. Then you can either use the sling loop built into the buttstock or get yourself a QD Sling swivel kit to create a QD point in the buttstock itself. OR you could use the dimples molded in to the underside of the stock to screw in sling swivels manually. I've yet to find another stock with as many options for attaching slings.

For me, I kept it simple with an MLOK bipod mount, and a QD swivel mount.

For me, I kept it simple with an MLOK bipod mount, and a QD swivel mount.

Obviously the potential accessories that you can attach to the X-22 are limited only by your imagination, but I myself chose to attach a MLOK sling swivel mount on the underside of the forearm so I could readily attach a bipod. Then I added an MLOK QD sling swivel port on the left side (9 oclock).  I had no need to attach picatinny rail sections, but anyone could do so for the mounting of flashlights, lasers, or other accessories more commonly found on an AR-15. If I want to add a light, I can easily just attach a torch using the Kinect Development Kinect QD MLOK that snaps on and off all my MLOK rifles quickly as needed.

Best stock for under $150? Absolutely. Unless it's not "Call Of Duty" enough for you.

Best stock for under $150? Absolutely. Unless it's not "Call Of Duty" enough for you.

The Hunter X-22 is a fantastic stock, and coupled with a lightweight barrel like an aluminum fluted bull barrel from Tactical Solutions, it makes for a featherweight plinker thats rugged enough for the most extreme squirrel hunts on the planet. My reccomendation: ditch the barrel band and give the X-22 a try. While the price point may turn off many customers being that its about $60 from the cost of the rifle itself, I strongly believe its a very decent stock and will last as long as the 10/22 will. 

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: The Magpul Hunter X-22 chassis is an ergonomic, full-featured stock for the ubiquitous Ruger 10/22 rifle.

Target Market:  Ruger 10/22 owners, hunting / target practice

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Drop-in design compatible with all factory Ruger 10/22 .22 LR receivers
  • Reinforced polymer construction for strength and durability
  • 60 degree grip angle from bore axis
  • Adjustable LOP from 12.5”-14.5” with 0.50” Spacers
  • Non-slip rubber butt-pad
  • Optional Cheek Riser Kits to raise cheek height 0.25”, 0.50”, or 0.75” sold seperately
  • Reversible barrel tray accepts all factory barrels and aftermarket up to 0.920” diameter (12.5" minimum length)
  • Compatible with all capacities of factory Ruger 10/22 magazines
  • M-LOK slots on forend sides and bottom for a wide variety of accessory and sling mounting options
  • Two dimpled drill points to install optional standard swivel studs (#10-32 x 3/8” long dome stud)
  • Push-button QD swivel compatibility in rear with optional Sling Mount Kits sold seperately
  • Left and Right rear 1-1/4” Footman’s LoopsWeight: 2.45 lbs (w/two Spacers installed)
  • LOP Adjustment Range: ~12.5-14.5 in.
  • Width of Forend, max: 1.9 in.
  • Width of Butt, max: 1.5 in.
  • Butt-Pad Dimensions: 1.5x5.0 in.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black, Flat Dark Earth, OD Green, Stealth Gray, Pink

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"Overall, the stock is a pretty good upgrade for an accuracy-driven 10/22 build. Cheek weld is comfortable, regardless of which spacer is used. The ability to adjust the length of pull will be welcomed by those intending to use the stock with growing youths, as well as people of different sized frames. With this stock the rifle balances well, and feels more like a rifle than a BB gun (as is the case with the light factory stock). The distinct angled grip is comfortable, placing the hand in a way which promotes proper trigger finger placement. Manufactured in the best country on earth, ever, this U.S.A.-made stock will likely please everyone but the old timey, wood stock lovers out there" - Breach Bang Clear Review

PRICE POINT:

  • MSRP: $139.95
  • Retail: $117.92 Amazon

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website or Amazon

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Reversible barrel tray easy to pop out for tapered and bull barrels
  • Ergonomics of grip angle, cheek riser and buttstock are great
  • MLOK slots in forend and sling loop / QD swivel port allow for sling customization
  • Lightweight, not bulky

Cons:

  • Barrel is not freefloated, if desired some sanding of the barrel channel is needed
  • Side rails cannot be installed without barrel tray installed (it wont fit in channel)
  • Polymer is soft enough to become stripped around MLOK slots if accessory rails are tightened incorrectly

SCORE: 8.5 GREAT

 

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

Pachmayr G10 Tactical Pistol Grips

Aftermarket grips is usually the first modification a gun owner looks at to customize their pistol. Its a great way to improve the actual grip texture from the factory, and it also sets their piece apart from others straight off the factory line. 

The Ruger Mark III benefits from a plethora of aftermarket components, but there aren't a lot of actually functional grip panels that aren't covered in zombie green or punisher skulls.

I wanted to find a grip texture similar to that of a pineapple grenade, with wide valleys and plateaus with the aesthetics of G10 and that sexy laminated look. I've seen Pachmayr's 1911 grips in Cabelas, so I was pleased to find they had offerings for the Ruger Mark III on their website.

The Grappler Grip from Pachmayr was a perfect fit for the Mark III, and the thickness added was less than the factory wooden panel. Available is a couple colors, I ordered gray and then used RIT dye to add a tint of color to the material. I used Black powdered dye, hoping to just darken the gray color to closer to a dark gray / black combo. I dunked both panels in the near boiling dye bath for about 1-2 minutes. Be careful if not to shrink the panels with too heat, and screw holes could become misaligned from the frame's posts. The grip turned a bluish hue, which was a happy accident in the end.

The G-10 material didn't take as much of the dye as I thought, compared to popular polymers in the industry. G-10 is a fiberglass based epoxy resin laminate that is extremely tough and durable material, so it makes sense that it resisted the dye solutions because it is impervious to moisture, weather and most chemicals. Thats why its so popular for handgun grips. 

Between the two textures that Pachmayr offers in their G-10 Tactical pistol grips - coarse "Grappler" or fine checkered, I greatly preferred the grappler. No extra frills, and greatly improves the grip of the frame for both gloved and ungloved hands... I like them so much I may be upgrading my other pistols soon!

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: Pachmayr G-10 Tactical grips are the toughest, most durable, and best looking grips on the market.

Target Market:  Semiauto Handgun owners looking for aftermarket grips

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Super tough, durable G-10 material
  • Impervious to moisture, weather or chemicals
  • Attractive color patterns
  • Coarse or checkered textures to suit your shooting or concealment needs
  • Available to fit 1911’s, Sig 238’s and 938’s, Ruger Mk III and 22/45’s, Beretta 92’s, and CZ 75’s.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Coarse (Grappler) or fine texture; Green/Black or Gray/Black.

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"These grips are very thin and very textured for a good grip on the gun. I would recommend them and buy again." - Amazon Customer Review

 

PRICE POINT:

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Perfect fit
  • Course texture not too sharp on edges
  • Edges are tapered and rounded for comfort when gripping
  • Takes Rit Dye (but boiling/dye seems to soften outer layers of laminate, can cause shrinkage if too long)

Cons:

  • Would have been wonderful if new screws were included

SCORE: 7.0 GOOD

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

StealthGear USA AIWB Holster

I'm not a huge fan of appendix carry, but I love the comfort of StealthGearUSA holsters... so I wanted to give the AIWB a try.

It's time for another inside the waistband holster review, and fortunately for me the quality of the holsters I get to try just keep getting better and better.  This time around I get to take a look at some premium holsters made by StealthGearUSA. SG makes holsters using unique materials that elevate the comfort and longevity of the product far above the conventional holsters of the past. Let's be honest, buying a IWB holster is absolutely brutal.

The AIWB holster came with two belt clips for the option of securing the gun angle.

With every Tom, Dick and Harry cranking out holsters,  all claiming to be "the best," it can be really hard to shop for the right one. You have to decide for yourself, if you are looking for a quick solution that will get you by in a pinch, or a quality rig that's more advanced and comfortable than the rest... which will help you WANT to carry that sidearm everyday.

The AIWB holster boasts the same Ventcore backing as the IWB holsters from StealthGearUSA and it is still one of the most comfortable hoslter backings I have used.

What makes StealthGearUSA holsters stand above the crowd is the use of a breathable, laser-cut ventilation mesh in combination with an integrated moisture shield and padding cells. They call this patented tech VentCore, and it adds up to a more comfortable carry with reduced sweating and irritation after a full day packing heat. The platform's ventilation allows my skin to breathe, keeping it dry and pretty comfortable. This design, and really the whole company, was born out of frustrations from inferior quality IWB holsters. After field testing a bunch of competitor's holsters that each claimed to be the king of comfort, the owner of SG wanted to create a holster more comfortable than a Kydex shell riveted to a piece of leather.

The AIWB is very flat and minimal, theres not unnecessary areas to complicate appendix carry 

All our AIWB holsters now ship with the second clip kit installed on the holster. All VentCore items are handmade to each specific order, we will not sacrifice quality for quantity. Due to high demand, all VentCore items are shipping within 25 days of the order being placed. In the StealthGearUSA™ Appendix Carry IWB Holster we’ve focused on a new level of comfort for smaller handguns and when absolute minimal weight, minimal bulk and minimal printing is required.

The way the posts are located, there's not al ot of support keeping the backing against the trigger guard on the AIWB.

The only thing that troubled me was how easy is it to pry the backing away from the trigger guard and frame, exposing the trigger and posing a risk to the carrier. While its not likely to happen in the real world, especially if you conceal well and draw your firearm before an assailant is in tickling distance, it still bothered me that it was easy to uncover the trigger while the guns still fully seated in its kydex shell.

The Appendix IWB polymer belt clip is mounted above the sight channel, at the edge of the holster. This allows the holster to be rotated slightly up and away from the leg when sitting for long periods of time, or when squatting. With the clip mounted to the side of the main Kydex® body, there is no extra bulk and the print of the holster is significantly minimized. The VentCore® breathable platform in the AIWB holster is custom designed for each individual handgun.

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: When seconds count, your holster will perform.

Target Market:  Concealed Carriers specifically interested in appendix carry

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Ventcore breathable mesh backing
  • Rhinomesh front layer
  • Black Oxide hardware
  • Polymer 2 position clips (Comes with two clips, even though the website shows only one)
  • Width: 4 inches
  • Height: 7.25 Inches
  • Weight: 3.60 oz
  • Custom designed fit for each handgun model
  • 30+ components

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black, Flat Dark Earth, OD Green

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"Got my AIWB holster from SGUSA yesterday afternoon so I haven't really put it through the ringer, but I wanted to post my initial thoughts after spending a day and a half with it. I carry pretty much right at 1:00, Im 6'0" and about 190. I wear a tucked polo or fishing shirt with an undershirt and jeans or shorts. Got the holster 21 days after ordering. Initial thoughts Immediately after putting it on I could tell the mesh backing would be awesome and super comfy. Once I put it in my belt and put my gun in I noticed the second clip over the trigger had to go, it blocked me from being able to grab the grip a lot, so much so that I didn't think I would be able to draw at all. Maybe using an Ulticlip or something would fix that but with the poly clips they provide it was really in the way.

Once that was off I got it back on my belt and decided I needed to adjust the ride height. Their clips have two holes so I set it to the absolute highest ride height possible and it was perfect for me. It prints a little more like this but it is still practically invisible on me. I can easily get a full grip and it is out of the way when sitting. Once I got that adjusted I went on with my day. I ran a few errands in my truck and pretty much forgot it was there. No problems getting in and out of the truck, very comfortable while sitting. I can tell this thing really lets some air move. My old holster would be warm after 45 minutes or so and it would cause me to sweat and get sweat on my gun, didn't happen with this one. At the end of the day when I unholstered there wasn't any sweat at all on my gun, a first for me.

Today I put it on first thing and wore it most of the day. It just kept getting better. I laid on the hardwood floor on my stomach to play with my kids and it wasn't uncomfortable at all. I really like it having a single clip up front that will shift as I sit and stand and walk. There is a spot on my groin that needs to get used to having something right there but that is to be expected and isn't painful at all. Again no sweat after wearing it all day.

I'll put it through the ringer over the next few weeks and post a month in review. Right now I say if you are on the fence and carry AIWB (can't we just call it AC?) then I say 100% get it. It is worth the money. TLDR summary: have worn for 36 hours and it's amazing. You know that feeling when you dig something out of your eye or something and everything is suddenly right with the world and its sweet sweet relief? That is this holster from the second you put it on. 10/10" - Reddit User Review

PRICE POINT:

  • MSRP: $94 standard, $119-$134 for the AIWB+ holster w/ integrated mag pouch

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Combines lightweight breathability with strength and retention
  • Cant adjustable
  • Website makes selecting gun make, model, light/laser accessory and left/right hand super fast and easily.

Cons:

  • Because design omits an anchor point under the trigger guard, the backing and shell can flex apart revealing an uncovered trigger and an accidental discharge possibility (foreign object gets wedged, or if a struggle results in opponent reaching for gun in holster)
  • Mesh fabric on backing can fray from aggressive use during training. This is a carry holster, not necessarily a training holster.
  • Current lead times are 25 days due to demand, materials / production time

SCORE: 6.0 OKAY

 

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

Bushnell TrophyCam HD Aggressor

Try to charge an art major extra for a camo dipped product? Think again!

Try to charge an art major extra for a camo dipped product? Think again!

Hunting season is upon us, and I'd like to review a piece of gear I used heavily last year that directly led to a successful harvest. I'm talking about trailcams, short for Trail Cameras but also known as Game Cams. First off, I'd like to say I am amazed at the technological leap these cameras have made in the last ten years.  Not only the resolution, but the features they manage to cram into these cameras is incredible. Most of them are better quality than my actual camera, let alone a high end camera phone. The Bushnell TrophyCam HD Aggressor is no exception, and I've got the pictures to prove it!

The trail camera market is really competitive, with dozens of brands popping up in the last 5 years. I ended up picked up the Bushnell TrophyCam HD Aggressor, only after trying a Stealth Cam G series and breaking the plastic latch on the door the first day. I wasn't completely satisfied with the image quality either, so I promptly returned it and opted to give the Bushnell a try. The Aggressor caught some good shots of my buck, as well as plenty of does and fawns, and even a few coyotes

Why use a trail camera?

An old hunter once told me "If you want a big buck, you've got to put time in the field. You won't make that payday if you don't punch the time clock." While there are those guys who are in the right place at the right time, and end up bagging a monster within a hundred yards of where they parked their truck, that just isn't me. Not because of pride or self-righteousness... but because I'm just not that lucky. To me, hunting is a lot like fishing: you really have to be in the right place at the right time to catch something with quality and maturity. However there are quite a few tools and techniques to improve your odds and help you position yourself in the right moment with the right equipment to seal the deal. There's nothing dirty about it, the cameras can't shoot and dress the game themselves... the user still has to put the effort in.

The advantages game cameras offer are huge. Obviously getting to see what animals are in the area is the main benefit, but the data you get from the camera really helps you get quickly dialed into that location. Not only can you see the number of bucks in the area and the points/size of the animal, but you get a timestamp every time they trip the camera. You should start to see a pattern of when that particular animal is moving down that trail, what direction they're coming from, and what direction are they going.  If you strap the camera to one tree and only checking the footage weekly, your results will be extremely limited unless you found the honeyhole on the first try. I moved the camera around every 4-5 days until I started to catch antlers on screen, often times using it to be in two places at once, while I sat on a trail in a treestand while the camera kept an eye on another possible route.

What I've found is that deer can be just as unpredictable as they can be predictable. Meaning there are times when a buck's routine shifts, and unless you are out every minute of the day to witness and document that behavior, stumbling across a bruiser on opening day is really a stroke of pure luck. All bucks go into the rut during certain known times of the year, but sometimes blacktails can also switch to a nocturnal mode in which their movement patterns shift until after legal shooting hours ended, and you'll never see them again til after the seasons over.

My 2015 Hunt

The little wooded oasis I hunt isn't huge, but most years it becomes a highway for lots of blacktail bucks in the area to cross around. Most aren't legal, some just barely legal and very few are 3-4 years old and stand out from the rest. After being clearcut and allowed to regrow just a few years ago, it has become ideal habitat for browsing, with no pressure from predators or other hunters. The issue is that the bucks don't show up until about mid-month, leaving a short window until the season ends a couple weeks later. With the wrong combination of weather and lunar cycle, the bucks often come out later and later until they're only active at night. I know this, because I would stake out a few well used game trails until after dusk with no activity, only to return and see prints, scrapes, and droppings the next morning.

This is the buck I ended up harvesting. He was pretty predictable in his activity, and tasted delicious.

This is the buck I ended up harvesting. He was pretty predictable in his activity, and tasted delicious.

Using the Aggressor, I was able figure out which trail was more frequently used by a deer, and I knew when the bucks had started to arrive in the area and about what hour of the day. I was currently working at a Cabela's about 40 minutes away from the hunting spot at the time, and the buck on my radar was consistently making his rounds around 6:00PM. I would get off at 5:30PM, and by the time I'd get to the spot he was already there and gone. The day before the season ended, I got off at 5, raced home and was able to get setup where he walked right to me. Game over!

The Aggressor

The Bushnell TrophyCam Aggressor performed best at night, when the contrast of the dark background and the IR flash reflecting off the animals makes for crisp shapes. It does come in Low-Glow and No-Glow models. The difference is pretty nominal, some animals may see the low glow and shy away from the camera, and bugs like moths will see the glow and tend to be drawn toward it, triggering the camera. I didn't want to skimp on brightness of flash so I went with the Low-Glow model. 

During the day I found the brightness and contrast to be okay, but not as great as I would have liked. I did have to tweak the settings to get a good balance of night time flash without blowing out the animals in white, as well as adjusting the sensitivity so a branch moving in the wind didn't set off a bunch of shots and waste battery and memory. Being in Washington State, it got rained on consistently, and was exposed to freezing temperatures every night and warm sun during the day. They say in my state: "If you don't like the weather, just wait an hour." Fortunately this Trailcam is robust enough to survive those conditions.

Several reviews on the Aggressor complain about the picture quality during pre-dawn and pre-dusk where images appear dark during day to night transition under certain lighting conditions (cloud cover). Bushnell has a firmware update to fix the issue and improve performance at all levels during this critical time for trail cams to perform. Please encourage users to follow the link below to find out if they require this update. Click here to download firmware update.

Here is what the high NV flash setting looks like. I had to experiment a couple nights to find the optimum setting that didn't blow out the contrast.

The conditions the camera sucked at was fog or mist. Even in the hours before dawn, the flash just bounces off the moisture in the air and makes everything blown out. I had set the NV flash level down to medium/normal, and left it there the rest of the season. The menu is easy enough to use on the Aggressor's backlit LED screen. You can also choose between photos only, video only, or "Hybrid Capture" mode where a it snaps a full res photo quickly followed by a video.

I didn't use the Field Scan 2X mode much, because the trails I set the camera on were pretty close quarters. Field Scan mode is a mode where you preset 2 time slots during the day for the camera to capture time lapse images as well as trigger-activated images, presumably at dawn and dusk when deer are most active. 

The advertised fast trigger speed is as promised. The camera can freeze birds in mid flight. The sensitivity and interval between shots can be adjusted to avoid repeated shots of grass and branches swaying in the wind, which I did end up doing after the first night of footage filling up a 2GB card. The delay settings are pretty useful, letting you stall the camera between 1-60 seconds between each shot, and then 1 min intervals above that. At its fastest setting it can snap 2-3 pictures in under 5 seconds. Most cameras under $200 don't have that customizability in shutter delay.

Overall, I have been pleased with the Aggressor having only forked over $150 after using some discount codes at Bass Pro Shops. While it lacks the convenience of a picture viewer and wireless capabilities, it was an excellent choice for a first camera and I look forward to putting in out in the field again this year.

 

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS - 8 KEY POINTS

CLAIM TO FAME:

The Trophy Cam HD Aggressor's are exactly what hunters have been waiting for.

TARGET MARKET:

All Hunters

FNBS (FEATURES & BENEFITS OF THIS PRODUCT):

  • 14 Megapixel Resolution

  • Video Resolution:1920x1080p

  • Video Length:Up to 60s w/ audio

  • Anti-Reflection shield

  • SD Card Capacity: 32 GB

  • Field Scan 2X

  • Freeze Frame anti-blur setting for the NV shutter

  • Hybrid Capture Mode

  • IR Sensor: Low/Med/High/Auto

  • Low Glow LEDs for invisible infrared flash

  • B&W Text LCD Display

  • Date/Time/Temp/Moon Stamp

  • GPS Geotagging

  • Powered by AA batteries (4-8)

  • Battery Life:Up to 1 Year

  • Solar Compatible

  • Includes adjustable web belt

  •  1/4-20 threaded socket for installation on mounts or tripods.

WHAT OTHER AESTHETIC OPTIONS OR FINISHES ARE AVAILABLE?

Solid Dark Green, or Camo Dipped for extra $$$

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?:

"I am sorry that another reviewer had a bad camera/experience. My 14MP Aggressor has worked very well. I have had mine running for about a week. I have it in my back yard, centered on a set of bird feeders. I want to check out the night visitors. So far during the day it has taken excellent color pictures and videos (with sound) and excellent black and white pictures and videos at night (with sound- you can hear the tree frogs chirping). At night it picked up a small rabbit that came into the field of view (FOV) at 25 feet, and two different raccoons at the same range. It also picked up my wife at night at about 40 feet as she entered the FOV. I have uploaded 4 pics, 2 day (note how small the targets were that triggered it) and 2 night. Since it is hot out, I have it on High sensitivity and Medium shutter speed. I like the embedded moon phase, temp, date and time. It also embeds lat/long, but that is not printed on the picture. Once I understood the set-up instructions, it was easy to get going and is now very easy to change the “parameters.” I like it so much that I have ordered a second one to monitor the entrance to the back of house that has its motion-sensor light go off occasionally. I appreciate that the camera can be set to take pictures in the day or night or both. I have it installed in a camlockbox mounted to a tree using a camlockbox heavy duty universal swivel bracket secured with a Master Lock Python. The combination works well for me. Some of my pictures were a little blurry after a hard rainstorm. They were OK after another rain. I have since installed a camlockbox rain hat which has good reviews." B. Hart, Amazon User

LINK TO OTHER REVIEWS:

chasingame.com review

PRICE POINT:

(MSRP versus actual retail)

MSRP = $179.99 solid color, $199.99 for RealTree Xtra camo

Retail = $149.01 Amazon

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Amazon, Cabelas, Bass Pro Shops

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Latch is rigid and large
  • External power compatible
  • Gasket seals out moisture
  • Crispness and brightness of Night photos are fantastic
  • Shutter speed is as fast as Bushnell claims
  • Sensitivity and Delay settings to maximize efficiency

Cons:

  • Batteries are exposed when retrieving the SD card / changing settings
  • The wide angle screen mode cuts off about 40% of the vertical picture of a full screen, and the full screen picture mode has all of the horizontal info of the "wide screen picture." So what's the point?
  • 80ft sensor range is more like 30 ft at night.
  • Pre-dawn and pre-dusk times suffer from confused flash (get the firmware update)
  • Lock and cable loops are plastic and thin
  • Would be great to select variable flash brightness for daytime vs night

SCORE: 6.5 OKAY

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

AAC Blastout

A lot of shooters have trouble understanding what the point of a blast diffuser is... in an industry where anything that can be bolted to a gun is brought to market, its common to be skeptical of something new.  Most will say "if you want to reduce the muzzle blast, why wouldn't I just remove my muzzle brake, or just use a suppressor?" Don't have a suppressor? Then why have a 51t mount muzzle device at all?

Well my scenario is that while I'm waiting for a suppressor approval from the BATFE, I already installed a 51 tooth muzzle brake from AAC on my bullpup rifle in preparation for the compatible can. AAC offers a few different muzzle devices that are 51t compliant, but I chose the BlackOut Muzzle Brake for the reduction in muzzle rise.

I installed the 51t BlackOut Brake on my IWI Tavor in anticipation for a M4-2000 5.56 suppressor.

The effectiveness of the BlackOut Brake has the side effect of concussive forces jetting out from the sides, both causing increased decibels to bystanders, ands spraying carbon, copper and other particulates on my support arm and the nearby area. Those factors multiply when shooting in a confined space like a hallway or a vehicle.

The BlastOut is angled like a stealth aircraft, which looks good aesthetically but also helps with leverage during installing and removing.

Thats why I was excited when AAC announced their BlastOut device. While the suppressor sits in "NFA jail" it allowed my to try the 51t ratchet system for myself, and get to benefit from the forward projection of muzzle blast and saving the ears of those who shoot next to me at the range. Installation is a breeze, just insert over the 51t device and start tightening until the ratcheting sound stops and the BlastOut bottoms out.

The 51t (or 90t) ratchet system is easy to use.

Just insert and twist a few rotations til it stops.

For those prohibited from owning a suppressor, the BlastOut gives some of the same advantages. First off, the BlastOut throws alot of the report downrange and away from the shooter's ears. It won't make the rifle hearing safe without ear pro, but it takes a little of the bark out. To the friendlies standing on either side of you, it's definitely a measurable improvement. And for those with AR/AK pistols or SBRs, the BlastOut helps tame the increased blast from the shorter barrel and unburned powder.

The BlastOut also gives you an idea of how much clearance is going to be needed before you get to take possession of your suppressor, incase you want a flashlight or other accessory near the muzzle.

Secondly, it doesn't affect the performance of the muzzle device it's installed on. If you're running a flash suppressor, the signature from the muzzle flash will still be minimal. If you're running a muzzle brake, the upward recoil will still be reduced. A lot of folks speculate that since it redirects forces forward, that the rearward recoil will be increased. It's not necessarily false, but in my testing the rearward forces felt and appeared to be identical with and without the BlastOut installed on an AAC BrakeOut muzzle device.

Third and final, it looks pretty damn tactical.

For the price point, I can see why some gun owners would rather spend $150 on something else worth while for their rifle (ammo, training, optics, etc.). But for those who are waiting on their AAC suppressor to be approved, or just enjoy using AAC's muzzle devices, the BlastOut is a great addition to the range bag.

Firearms Insider Reviews – 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  The BlastOut encloses the gas exhaust ports of the muzzle device and shields the shooter and nearby personnel from the concussive effects of lateral and rearward escaping muzzle gasses.

Target Market: AR-15, AK-47 and other rifle owners

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 51T Ratchet or 90T Taper Mount
  • Weighs only 6 oz.
  • 2.5" length
  • 1.50" body outside diameter, 1.57" at the latch
  • Nitride Finish

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Black Only

What others are saying?: Couldn't find any 3rd party reviews yet

Heres a Brownells Spotlight video

Price point:

I need it now! Availability: AAC website, MidwayUSA, Brownells, Roughneck Firearms (cheapest)

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Works on all existing AAC 51-tooth mounts regardless of caliber and device type (flash hider, compensator, or brake) or 90-tooth mounts if you get the 90T Blastout
  • Ratchet attachment can be heard and felt
  • Design incorporates flats and finger grooves to assist in grip for securing/removing
  • Directs gasses, lead and other debris forward
  • Something to attach to your gun while you are waiting for your NFA stamp, or while you swapped the can onto another firearm.

Cons:

  • Expensive (although still cheaper than a Surefire Warden)
  • Lead exposure increases greatly as debris starts to build up inside the tube

Score: 8.5 Great

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

Leatherman Skeletool

I'm a big fan of pocket knives as EDC or Every Day Carry gear, especially when they have additional features that expand the utility of the tool. Multitools are great, but often they are chunky because of all the different tools incorporated within the handle. Try carrying something like that in your pants pocket all day and you'll quickly get tired of the uncomfortable bulge and extra weight. I usually keep them on the desk drawer or toss them in the toolbox and neglect them until I can't find the right screwdriver or other tool I need, and I've become desperate.

The Leatherman Skeletool is a unique multitool that really fits into the EDC role well. Folded, the Skeletool has a carabiner style clip that makes it easy to hitch a ride on your belt loop or keychain / lanyard. Its a very skeletized design, which makes the overall weight fairly light. It has a hinged plier design like other popular Leatherman multitools, but minimalist approach to the onboard tools keeps the profile slimmer and more pants or jacket pocket friendly.

Before opening the Skeletool up, its worth mentioning the exterior tools that are available while its in the closed mode. First, the carabiner clip doubles as a very handy bottle opener. The stainless finish will also make rinsing off beer easier if you have a party-foul that could lead to sticky hands later.

The second feature is the blade that is very easy to deploy one handed via a thumbhole. The blade is 2.5" long with a unique sway design and a drop-point that is suitable for puncturing jobs, and a nice edge that arrived pretty sharp out of the box. With a hardness of 420HC I've found the blade to hold it's edge well over time, although I sharpen all my blades every few months anyway. I've been careful with the tip as to not torque it horizontally during odd jobs, and after 7 years of moderate use it's still nice and pointy.

When you spread the Skeletool's handles apart, the plier jaws are exposed as well as the bit driver on the non-carabiner clip arm. The opposite arm has integral storage of a second double-headed bit for the driver.

The plier jaws are approximately 2" long and have about half an inch of a flat nose with serrated surfaces, a squared off nose and deep teeth along with a wire cutter. The plier head itself feels a bit thicker than other multitools I've owned, and the hinges are well designed and feel reinforced. Usually the breaking point of a multitool is the hinge point when the operator squeezes with too much force, resulting in the tool separating itself in two halves. This has not happened to me and my Skeletool, because I know when the job at hand requires a more appropriate set of pliers. These are not meant to loosen the lugs on your flat tire! Use the tool between your ears before using a pocket tool on a heavy duty job.

While the Skeletool looks awkward to grip in the plier mode, its actually pretty usable. Leaving a bit in the driver may cause you to stab the heel of your hand if you've got large mits, so keep that in mind. The knife blade stays stowed and protected in this mode, but its handy to be able to use the bit driver in this mode if whatever task your are doing requires gripping or prying/screwing.

The bit driver mode isn't the most ergonomic screwdriver in the world, but it does get the job done. When inserted, the bit is locked into the drive via a detent so it won't fall out from gravity or get stuck in valley of the screw head. When you want to swap bits, there is a serrated thumb lever that releases the detent. For how small the parts are I'm actually surprised how well thought out Leatherman put into this design. The included bits are proprietary to Leatherman and won't fit in your other drivers. However they are double sided, being the same type just one larger and one smaller. I find the integrated storage slot for the unused bit to be very cool and convenient, and more importantly secure. In all the years I've beat this thing around, I've never had the stored bit come loose or fall out unintentionally from its friction fit little compartment.

Overall the Skeletool is extremely portable, but it lacks additional tools beyond the basics. Some may find the features underwhelming if you find yourself needing hex/star wrenches, scissors, files, or other tools. While there are other compatible bit heads available from Leatherman, I've never personally seen the need for them. I do own other multitools, for jobs like maintenance on a compound bow or a modern sporting firearm. You could of course just order the extra bits and swap out the secondary for a bit you find more useful in your day to day life. The purpose of the Skeletool is to cover the essentials and be more convenient to keep with you on a regular basis, and I think it really succeeds at that role.

Firearms Insider Reviews – 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  The Leatherman Skeletool is an ultra lightweight, bare-bones multitool equipped with all the tools you need.

Target Market: Everybody

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Weighs only 5 oz.
  • 2" Pliers and wire cutters
  • Bit driver with four bits
  • Drop-point knife
  • Carabiner/bottle opener
  • Removable pocket clip for easy carry
  • Stainless steel 420HC drop-point blade
  • Length 4"

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Stainless, Tan, Green, Blue anodizing as well as serrated or non-seratted blade. Other models are now available with glass breakers, seatbelt cutters, and carbon fiber handles.

What others are saying?: "One really slick bit of engineering is that as you close the tool, the bit fits neatly inside the frame around the carabiner. Speaking of the carabiner, I rarely find myself using it. Clipping it to a belt loop makes for an awkward carry since the tool is too short to ‘tuck’ into a pocket that way and it sort of pokes out a bit for me. I prefer using the spring clip in a back pocket… until I noticed that the protruding head was catching on things like my car seat. This is not really a design flaw, but it bothers me enough that I stopped carrying it for now (I will re-evaluate when I get the case, which I still have not ordered.)

My ‘wish list’ for the Skeletool is pretty short. I wish it had a detent that held the tool so you could use the bit at right angles for more power, and I wish it could carry bits and the extender more easily without the case, perhaps some sort of ‘snap-on bandoleer’-like device. I also wish there was a version with scissors – I use the scissors on my Juice S2 quite a bit – although I would not want to give up the light weight and small size of the Skeletool for them.

Overall, this is a solidly-built smaller multitool that feels great in your hand or pocket. It has not quite replaced my Juice S2- but it well might if/when I order the extension bit, bit kit, and case." -The Gadgeteer Review

Price point:

  • Retail: $69.85

I need it now! Availability: Leatherman Dealers, Direct from Leatherman

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Knife can be deployed without opening entire tool
  • Self storage of the extra bit
  • Bit driver locks in bit head with detent, easy thumb lever to release
  • Curved handle fits palm of hand contour
  • Slim enough to fit in pockets, rangebags, glove boxes or clipped elsewhere
  • Handles never contact each other when pliers jaws are full closed/squeezed, preventing excess force and leverage that could cause damage

Cons:

  • Tools are minimal, more bits sold seperately
  • One of the main screws of hinge came loose over time, had to use locktite and retighten with another tool (star head)
  • Leaving a bit in the driver while using the pliers could injure your hand via stabbing or puncture, if the user's hands are large.

Score: 8.5 Great

 

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast

Hunter of Design

Crimson Trace Laserguard

Lasers! Many shop-keeps, keyboard commandos and opinionated range goers will tell you that lasers are lazy and stupid. The common argument is that folks with lasers on their sidearms don't bother learning how to aim using iron sights, and the skills of how to shoot and reacquire those sights with enough proficiency for a real-life, adrenaline-pumping self defense scenario. Batteries do die, and electronics can go bad, so I'm not disagreeing with those talking heads. However, after giving a laser device a try for a few months, I've picked up on some strengths and benefits to carrying a protective firearm equipped with a laser.

Obviously a laser acts like a pointer, and can greatly increase the speed of "point shooting" which is firing a handgun without using its sights. Though certainly not pinpoint accurate or consistent when speed is the focus, point shooting uses the shooter's arm and body geometry to aim the muzzle in the desired direction. It doesn't take much practice to put rounds on a torso sized target at extremely short distances... its almost as easy as pointing the remote at the television. For shooters with less than perfect eyes that can't focus on iron sights, or difficulty during low light / night, as laser on your piece can be your ace in the hole.

Having a laser can add unique feedback when dryfiring indoors, as it telegraphs every millimeter of movement in the muzzle.

Not only that, but it literally encompasses the gun safety commandment: Never point the muzzle at anything you are not willing to destroy. For new shooters, a laser can be a useful training aid that teaches muzzle control. A laser can also show a shooter's stability, as it telegraphs every twitch, shake, or fault in the user's arms and body as it dances around on the target. This movement is more exaggerated at further distances, as a jiggle of around a quarter inch circle at 10 feet will expand when aiming at 20, 30, 40 feet and so on. It's great for giving the shooter instant feedback as to their stance's stability, but a sniper it does not make.

I've also heard people (mostly salesman) say lasers can be a threat deterrent. I can't speak to that personally, but I have asked acquaintances in law enforcement and private security who run lasers on their sidearms and they claim it reinforces the immediate danger the suspect is in, when guns are drawn and verbal commands are given. Lucky for me, my review doesn't have to prove or disprove any of those theories. Let's take a look at product geared for smaller pocket pistols, the Laserguard from Crimson Trace.

CT sources their pocket holsters from Tuff Products. If you carry in the pocket, this really saves you time hunting down the right size holster for your gun + laser combo.

There's very few laser companies with as many product variations as Crimson Trace. Whatever handgun or long gun you own, chances are theres a CT product that can work for it. The Laserguard is a unique design that adapts to smaller, pocket sized and sub-compact pistols that lack any provision for attaching lights or lasers via an accessory rail built into the frame. With the rise in popularity with smaller handguns like the Glock 42/43, S&W Shield/Bodyguard, Ruger LCP/LC9, Taurus Curve, Kel-Tec PF9 and others, there was lack in support for accessories. Crimson Trace designed a housing that snaps around the trigger guard and snugs up against the underside of the muzzle. I picked one up for my Sig P938, as it doesn't have a rail and the ambidextrous 1911-esque thumb safeties would inhibit a laser equipped grip panel anyway. I did get the Laserguard with the holster bundled since my preferred method of carry is inside the pocket, so its nice CT provides the right size pocket holster to fit my gun with the LG-492 installed.

I still like the DeSantis Nemesis Pocket Holster over the Tuff products one CT chose to use, but it still gets the job done.

CT did a good job making the Laserguard easy to install yourself. It comes with the two allen wrenches needed for the housing screws and the windage/elevation screws, as well as your first battery. After installing the battery in the right half of the Laserguard, you simply snap it onto the handgun's triggerguard, then align the left half, press together, and tighten the tiny screws to complete the housing. The Laserguard puts the laser diode directly under the muzzle, with an activation pad right where your middle finger contacts the frame during a proper grip.

The button location makes it pretty idiot-proof and doesn't add any awkwardness to the drawing of the firearm. Just grip normally and the squeezing pressure of your finger will press the activation pad. There is no toggle or programmable modes, so to keep the laser on you will need to maintain the grip pressure. The downside to the LG-492 model designated for my SIG P938 is that there is no master on/off switch, so if I want to shoot without the laser activated, I need to slightly bend my middle finger as to not press the button (or remove the Laserguard entirely). My biggest complaint is I really wish CT made the master switch a consistent feature across all the Laserguard models.

The two main housing screws are tiny, so be sure not to lose them. The laser seems to return to zero when you take the Laserguard off and back on, as long as you tighten them the same as you had when you zeroed in the first place.

Zeroing the laser is pretty easy to do in just a couple minutes. Often I would do this in store when I worked behind a gun counter as it really is simple. Just hold the gun with one hand and aim at a particular point on the wall (in a safe direction, with an empty and safe firearm please). With the other hand, insert the small allen key and turn the windage or elevation screws until the dot moves to where your sights are aiming. Turning the screws counter clockwise will move the dot left or up, and turning clockwise will move the dot right or down. Keep in mind if your handgun's sights require a 6 o'clock hold for accurate point of impact, as you'll want to knowingly move the laser dot higher to where that bullet will hit.

The button area is overmolded with rubber for comfort and wear resistance.

The distance at which you zero your laser is entirely up to you. Supposedly CT zeroes all their products from the factory at 50 feet. The common misconception is that most self defense shootings occur at 21 feet, or 7 yards. That figure has been debunked, and the real average for self defense shootings is a distance closer to 7-10 FEET. Whatever you choose to believe, you should zero the laser for that realistic distance. I zeroed my Laserguard at 20 feet, because at that zeroed distance if I were to aim at a closer object at 10 feet my laser dot is only one inch low. When I back up to 90 feet or 30 yards, the laser dot is about 5-6 inches above where I set my sights. When aiming for tighter groups at different ranges, its good to know how the geometry of the upward angled laser diode when zeroed affects the dot compared to your point of aim.

The Laserguard will shorten your grip area, so hopefully you have a finger rest on an extended magazine, or you're comfortable shooting with a two fingered grip.

My only other major complaint about the Laserguard, is it decreases the real estate for my fingers to grip the frame. On a small pistol like the P938 or others in it's class, you may find there's just enough room for all three of your fingers on the grip as is without any accessories, or you require an extension on the magazine basepad to accomodate your pinky finger.  The addition of the Laserguard and the way it snaps around the trigger guard will add thickness and thus decrease the room for your fingers on the frame. This of course differs for all pistols as the space on the frame is different across the board, but its something to consider if the platform you shoot doesn't have an option for extended magazine bases or finger rests.

After shooting with the laser installed, its almost a certainty that the lens surface will get fouled by the carbon and other crud that comes out of a barrel after firing enough rounds, causing the beam to spread and degrade in sharpness and shape. CT includes cleaning swabs with their lasers, and if you simply use window cleaner or isopropyl alcohol to lightly clean the lens with one swab and dry it with the other, you should be good to go. If you carry inside the waistband or inside the pocket, I would say you should still add this to your maintenance of the firearm as a whole because dust, lint, and other tiny particles will still get on that lens with use.

Don't forget to take advantage of the free batteries for life promo. With a 4 hour battery life for red lasers, CT figures you will need a replacement every year with normal use.

Overall, I'm still on the fence on whether I'll keep the Laserguard on my little Sig. I don't have a disability or other physical reason to depend on the laser for aiming assistance, and I find I am much more accurate without it, just using the iron sights. But I do recognize in a situation where I cannot use a proper shooting stance, or even both hands, I can see the laser being a detriment to a fast and reasonably accurate response to a threat. Just like the gun it's mounted to, its better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it at all.

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: Laserguard® is the best-in-class laser sighting system for compact and subcompact polymer-framed pistols. Laserguard mounts securely to the trigger guard, enhancing your ability to engage threats quickly and accurately with a small-framed concealed carry handgun.

Target Market:  Handgun owners, Concealed Carriers

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Polymer housing with Rubber Overmold activation pad
  • Instinctive pressure activation location with middle finger
  • Battery Type: One 1/3N Lithium or Two 357 Silver Oxide Batteries
  • No gunsmith needed, easy to install
  • Battery Life: Red- Four Hours, Green- 2 hours
  • Factory Sighted at 50'
  • User Adjustable for Windage and Elevation
  • Warranty    Three Year Full Warranty
  • Wrench Size    0.05
  • Dot Size    Approx. 0.50" at 50'
  • Master ON/OFF switch on select models

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Red or Green laser diode

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"It's a good laser sight, nice and bright. I mounted this on a Glock 26 firing 124 Gr. 9mm +P Winchester PDX1. I find that the light weight of the subcompact pistol combined with the nasty recoil of those 9mm +P rounds start my laser dot creeping off zero after about 50 shots (but very slow drift). This is acceptable in a self-defense situation IMO, but be aware that you may have to re-zero this little guy from time to time (which is very simple to do.) It will increase the size of the pistol beyond what will fit in most holsters." - Amazon Customer Review

PRICE POINT:

  • MSRP: $229-329 (red or green laser, with or without holster)

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website

Brownells

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Easy to install and zero in minutes
  • Activation pad in natural position
  • Some models have bundles available with pocket holsters
  • Returns to zero when removed and reinstalled IF you tighten screws exactly the same amount (still verify zero each time to be sure)

Cons:

  • Won't fit guns with Hogue grips that wrap around the front strap

  • Holster requires custom kydex shells

  • Reduces grip area for fingers

  • Zero shifts slightly after multiple shots (about the 250 round mark for me)

  • Master on/off switch not available on the LG-492 model

SCORE: 6.5 Okay

 

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

SteathGearUSA IWB Mini Holster

The holster industry is uber saturated with hybrid holsters. New materials are needed to make a new hybrid-hybrid platform.

It's time for another inside the waistband holster review, and fortunately for me the quality of the holsters I get to try just keep getting better and better.  This time around I get to take a look at some premium holsters made by StealthGearUSA. SG makes holsters using unique materials that elevate the comfort and longevity of the product far above the conventional holsters of the past. Let's be honest, buying a IWB holster is absolutely brutal. With every Tom, Dick and Harry cranking out holsters,  all claiming to be "the best," it can be really hard to shop for the right one. You have to decide for yourself, if you are looking for a quick solution that will get you by in a pinch, or a quality rig that's more advanced and comfortable than the rest... which will help you WANT to carry that sidearm everyday.

What makes StealthGearUSA holsters stand above the crowd is the use of a breathable, laser-cut ventilation mesh in combination with an integrated moisture shield and padding cells. They call this patented tech VentCore, and it adds up to a more comfortable carry with reduced sweating and irritation after a full day packing heat. The platform's ventilation allows my skin to breathe, keeping it dry and pretty comfortable. This design, and really the whole company, was born out of frustrations from inferior quality IWB holsters. After field testing a bunch of competitor's holsters that each claimed to be the king of comfort, the owner of SG wanted to create a holster more comfortable than a Kydex shell riveted to a piece of leather.

The Ventcore backing reminds me of the mesh basketball shorts of my youth. It certainly is breathable and soft against bare skin.

The IWB Mini holster is one of SG's popular models. It's basically a narrower width variation of their standard IWB model formerly known as the ONYX. The shorter profile will be welcome among users who find full width IWB designs too bulky and awkward when worn in the 3-6 o'clock position. Using completely synthetic materials instead of moisture-trapping leather, the Mini is ventilated and padded for comfort. It's also noticeably lighter and durable than other holsters on the market that I've tried. 

On the inward facing side, the backing is padded with a custom cut layer of foam thats designed to optimize comfort with each individual gun model. On the inside, the foam padding is specifically selected as to not be moisture-absorbing. On the outward facing side, SG used a hard nylon mesh called Rhinomesh that provides structure and rigidity to the otherwise soft and flexible padding and Ventcore layers. The combination adds up to a backing consistent with other materials in thickness and pliability.

Trigger Guard Coverage: check!
Finger clearance: check!

Muzzle Coverage: check!

The kydex shell of the Mini is custom designed for each individual handgun. The grip clearance is excellent and both the trigger guard and muzzle are covered completely, which I consider must-have features. Obviously full coverage of the trigger guard is a common sense feature for safety, but I also prefer a covered muzzle to prevent the front sight from getting worn / wearing a hole into my clothes, as well as keep lint and debris from accumulating in the barrel, and guarding the muzzle itself from contacting a hard object and sliding up in the holster.

The belt clips have a nice edge that's easy to feel and pry on when attaching to your belt one handed and without looking.

The clips on the IWB Mini are injection molded polymer, and have two screw holes for cant / depth adjustment. Available in either a straight or angled design (to help push the holster tighter into the body) they work with belts between 1.5" - 1.75" wide, and as thick as triple-layer nylon webbing. The upward hook of the clip engages bottom of the belt for maximum retention. Between the shell and the backing, rubber spacers help with adjustment of retention. The clips and shell both use rust resistant black oxide stainless steel fasteners with phillips heads. SG specifically chose not to use rivets, out of concern for premature wear and failure, as well as lack of adjustability.

StealthGearUSA seals their holsters in a pouch that feels like its food grade. They do this to keep the holster fresh from the factory all the way to your door!

The Rhinomesh layer on the outward facing layer is textured and porous. In fact, I can see daylight looking through the backing, and can feel air pass through the materials from either side. The flip side to the material's structural benefit is its texture. The texture of the Rhinomesh adds friction when you slip your gun into the shell, which is why they recommend something I've never heard of before until now.

No thank you, I'll stick to lubing my firearms where it matters, and not treat them like sports cars.

Included with the holster is a promotional card for a product called Quick Draw, which is a dedicated holster lubricant. Yes, you read that right. StealthGear claims the lube will extend to life of the holster by decreasing drag for a faster draw, protect the finish of the firearm from micro-abrasions, and "helps the FEEL of the gun in the holster." Come on guys, that last one puts the BS meter in the red zone. The fun doesn't stop there, because it's recommended that you reapply Quick Draw every 50-100 draws, or every 30 days. Personally, I don't care for the idea of adding another level of maintenance to my holster platform, just because the material the manufacturer chose is a little rough. But if you are the kind of gun owner that worries about keeping a prestine finish and avoids holster wear at all cost, you might want to give the lube a try.

In doing some digging around on the interwebs, I found a review of the Mini's predecessor the Onyx on The Truth About Guns. In a quote from SG at the time: "The hard nylon RhinoMesh facing used where the weapon contacts the platform... has a twist in the warp yarn for extreme strength and abrasion resistance, but still allows maximum breath-ability. We have tested the durability of this facing mesh by holstering and un-holstering a gun in a test holster the equivalent of once per day for 30 years with NO visible wear." I did the math, thats approximately 10,957 times. I doubt I will draw my carry weapon more than 1,000 times in my training time at home, so I choose to not worry about the micro-abrasion issue and forgo the lubrication.

The IWB Mini passed the concealment test with me. At 4:30 - 5 o'clock, which is my preferred position, the Mini kept the grip close to my hip and I did not notice any extra bulk imprinting my pants or shirt. A cover garment ontop of a proper fitting shirt isn't mandatory with this holster. After a few weeks of carrying, I could definitely feel the benefits of the breathable materials as I did not develop a sweaty spot on the skin like I do with other leather or neoprene holster backings.

Sometimes belt loops on your favorite pair of pants often interfere with IWB holster clips when trying to position in the optimum carry position. The Mini's shorter clip to clip length helps resolve that.

At $114, is this holster the reigning champion of "most comfortable holster in the world?" I can't say. Honestly, I think thats a foolish question to ask, and companies who let their marketing department squabble over such claims instead of actually innovating in the R&D department are just as fool hearted. So I say to kudos to SG for trying new materials in the pursuit of a better holster. What I can conclude, is if you as the consumer have tried other holsters in the past and was not pleased with the backing being making your skin hot, sweaty, sticky and uncomfortable... or the weight and bulk of leathers products, than the StealthGearUSA's solution maybe exactly what you are looking for in a IWB holster. 

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: When seconds count, your holster will perform.

Target Market:  Concealed Carriers

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Ventcore breathable mesh backing
  • Rhinomesh front layer
  • Black Oxide hardware
  • Polymer 2 position clips
  • Width: 8 inches
  • Height: 8 Inches
  • Weight: 5.35 oz.
  • Custom designed fit for each handgun model
  • 30+ components

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black, Flat Dark Earth, OD Green

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"I'm a corporate manager in the Southeast. I had purchased the IWB Standard for my Walther PPS M2 after hearing great things from fellow pistol owners. It was just as comfortable as they said, but my pants' belt loops didn't sit right with the holster clips. The helpful folks @ SG recommended a swap-out for an IWB Mini. They sent me the Mini along with a prepaid mailer to send back the Standard. I've been wearing the IWB Mini for nearly a week now & am absolutely satisfied with its comfort/quality and the top-tier customer service of the company behind it. StealthGear, you'll be where I look first for my next holster!" - Customer Review

 

PRICE POINT:

  • MSRP: $114

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Combines lightweight breathability with strength and retention
  • Cant adjustable
  • Mini helps fit smaller folks, or those with pants where belt loops interfere with holster position
  • Website makes selecting gun make, model, light/laser accessory and left/right hand super fast and easily.

Cons:

  • Mesh fabric on backing can fray from aggressive use during training. This is a carry holster, not necessarily a training holster.
  • Current lead times are 25 days due to demand

SCORE: 8.0 GREAT

Featured FFL:

For FFL services I choose Promised Land Firearms in Toulon, IL.

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design