Beretta Tactical Fleece Review

Beretta tactical fleece 1

For a long time I would wear a Northface fleece jacket on cool/cold days.  However over this past winter, my fleece suffered an unfortunate accident while I was shoveling snow and ripped apart on me.  I was going to go for the budget friendly approach and try sewing the thing back together but decided to forget that idea and buy myself something nice and useful.  I could have gotten another Northface, but I really wanted something that would be more durable and adaptable to my shooting activities.  For those of you who don't already know, I shoot a lot of sporting clays.  With clay shooting, your arms and body are in consistent motion as you follow the clay for the shot.  With that being said, the adjustable cuffs with the thumb holes worked out great at keeping the jacket put.  The reinforced panels around the shoulder area were great at helping to keep the butt of the gun set and not loose its position on your shoulder.  The jacket is warm and loose enough to allow you to layer up a bit.  Last but not least, I actually liked the drop down stadium seat because I could put my butt down on any wet surface around the course.  Why is it always that the little things make the most difference ?

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Comfortable and warm protection that is functional in every day wear.Beretta tactical fleece 2

Target Market: Shooters, gun enthusiasts and those of us with a tactical mindset. 

FNB's:  (Features and Benefits of this product)

  • Reinforced with abrasion panels in key areas like shoulders and elbo.
  • Drop down stadium seat
  • Adjustable cuffs with thumb holes
  • Removable hood
  • 2 shoulder Velcro shoulder patch panels
  • Variety of interior and exterior pockets

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black and green are the only color options that Beretta offers this jacket in.

What others are saying?:  The only reviews that I could find on this item were on the Beretta USA site.  Also, there were only 2 reviews posted.  I shared them both below.  If you average both review together, the fleece receives 4.5 out of 5 stars.

  • "Great jacket. Well made".  5 out of 5 stars
  • "Overall this is a great fleece, I however am very disappointed with the internal concealed carry pickets.  My 45 will tear right through the lightweight fabric and fall out through the cheap Velcro! Otherwise I love the fleece".  4 out of 5 stars

Price Point:

I need it now! Availability: I have only found this fleece available on-line at Beretta USA and Midway USA

Our Rating:

+-Durable and warm +-Allows for layering up without feeling bulky +-Drop down stadium seating allows you to sit on any wet surface around you +-Adjustable cuffs and thumb holes keep the jacket put around your arms/hands +-Velcro patch panels allow you to customize your fleece's look

Score: 9.0 Amazing90

 

 

Jared prefers Simon Peter Sport Company for all his FFL needs.

 Simon Peter Sport banner

Jared's Links:

 

LaserLyte Trainer 22 LT-LR Review

Laserlyte Trainer 22 LT-LR Training with a 22 caliber pistol or rifle used to be the cheapest way to shoot all day, but these days with ammo availability thats no longer the rule of thumb. While some turn to dry fire practice in the comfort of their own home, there's a limit to knowing precisely if your shots are breaking true at your intended target reference point.

Laser products help achieve precisely that, giving the shooter instantaneous feedback as to where that hypothetical bullet would have gone in relation to your sight picture and trigger press. LaserLyte has produced a number of different caliber laser product that interface directly with your own gun so that you can train with the same controls, weight, and familiarity of your own firearm. The Trainer 22 LT-LR was recently release and is uniquely universal to 22 caliber firearms. Be it 22 lr, 22 short, 22 long, 223 Rem, 22-250 or any other cartridge in the 22 caliber family, the LaserLyte Trainer 22 LT-LR simple installs through the muzzle and into barrels with a minimum length of 1.875" inches. There is a small black plastic arbor on the end of the Trainer that expands when an even smaller screw is tightened, which lets the use firmly install in a barrel with enough friction to prevent it from falling out due to gravity.

I found that for use in a pistol, double action is best to have. That way you don't have to rack the slide and reset the trigger each time, you can just keep pulling that bang switch while pumping up your finger strength in the process.  For my T&E I used a Ruger SR-22, but a revolver or other semi auto with a hammer should work well too. The width of the trainer at its fattest point is about 3/4 of an inch, so depending on your gun of choice it may or may not be wider than the muzzle, thusly interfering with the holstering of the firearm.

The T&E model I received worked during the first day of experimenting but a week or so later when conducting the official review the laser seemed to have some problems. The activation became inconsistent, and then non existent altogether. I did replace the 1x1632 coin battery and it functioned consistently once again, however the brightness of the laser was not enough to activate some LaserLyte Laser Plinking Cans I was testing for another review. I used a different manufacturer's laser boresight to verify the targets functioned properly and that the Trainer was the issue. This is reflected in my rating, which will be updated when the manufacturer gets back to us.

Being 22 caliber, the manufacturer claims it is compatible with multiple 22 caliber platforms, but not specifically any type of model. I found that while it will mount in the barrel of a Ruger MKIII 22lr pistol, a 223 Rem AR-15 Carbine, and a 22-250 bolt action rifle, it will not necessarily activate upon dry firing. The sound and concussion from the trigger/sear/hammer is what makes the laser activate, and the potency of that effect really varies in every firearm. I do believe that longer barrels are a contributor in dampening the sound from reaching the Trainer. Racking the bolt, charging handle, and slide would set off the laser but the dry fire of the trigger in most cases would not. Based on my experience using the firearms I had access to, I would say this product is ideally meant to work best in pistols, even more so in revolvers because the solidarity of the frame would allow the transfer of energy from the hammer to the Trainer most efficiently.

From a design and operation standpoint, the on/off of the Trainer is very minimalistic. You just unscrew slightly to cut the battery off from completing the circuit. This isn't ideal, especially when the exterior of the Trainer has no texture, so big fumbly fingers like mine had difficulty unscrewing the two halves especially if overtightened during use. I had to be extra conscious not to overtighten the Trainer.

Overall I would say that malfunctions aside, this training aid is very useful for dry fire practice indoors, especially when used in combination with a laser compatible electronic target system, like the LaserLyte Reaction Tyme Target (see FI review).

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Simply the easiest way to train without ammo for any of your 22 rimfire pistols.

Target Market: Gun Owners who want to add laser functionality to their dry fire practice, safely and indoors.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product)

  • Compatible with: 22LR, 22WMR, 22 Short, 22 Long, .223 REM with at least a 1.875" barrel
  • Length: 3.0 inches
  • Diameter: .20" Min./ .76 inch Max
  • Battery Life: 10,000 shots
  • Batteries: 1 x 1632 Lithium
  • Activation: Sound of striker or hammer
What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  none

What others are saying?:

Price Point:

I need it now! Availability: Readily available at Brownells.com or Amazon.com

Our Rating: UPDATE +-Easy to operate +-Short enough to fit most pocket pistols or snubnose revolvers +-Battery life is high, batteries are hard to find + Tested and confirmed functional in Ruger MKIII Pistol, Ruger SR22 Pistol, Ruger 10/22 rifle, AR15, and Savage 22-250 rifle + Customer Service was very responsive in replacing first malfunctioning laser Trainer with a correctly working model

  • No knurling to assist with unscrewing, which is the only way to preserve batter life.  Overtighten= Bad Time

Score: 8.5 Great* *Score increased after initial defective model was replaced and reevalutated

LaserLyte Laser Plinking Cans Review

LaserLyte Plinking Cans Plinking cans has been the quintessential method of target practice since the dawn of the first firearms. Cowboys would shoot empty bean cans out on the range to hone their skill. Heck, even today there's still something so iconic about setting up empty cans, taking 10 paces, and then trying to knock them down with the speed and accuracy like that of the legends of the Wild West.

With modern ammo prices and range fees, plinkin' ain't cheap! That's why this product from LaserLyte is so exciting. With the Laser Plinking Cans, you can literally plink all day long indoors til your heart's content, without blowing through costly ammo, picking up brass, or putting on pants for that matter!

The Laserlyte Laser Plinking Cans are small, like a classic can of V8. They have a solonoid wired to a receiver, so when the target area gets hit with a laser, a plunger is extended out the bottom about half and inch which will topple the device over. After you knock down all targets, simply push the plungers back in and set them back up. It's easy to see with just the first time knocking one over how fun it is, it rushes over you and puts a smirk on your face.

In testing the Laser Plinking Cans, I found that the receptors are sensitive to more than just a laser. The wrong indoor lighting and even natural light from outdoors will set the can off, resulting in an auditory CLICK, CLICK, CLICK, CLICK of the solonoid tripping until you either switch the unit off, or cover the target from light and move it to a darker location. Reading other reviews online I see more users have had the same difficulty. It's an unfortunate flaw of oversensitivity that really detracts from the enjoyment of using them, as you try different corners of the room or switching off lamps and lights desperately trying to keep the cans from "prematurely plinking" themselves. Not to mention that the cans themselves are dark colored, so you may find using these as a low-light scenario training aid more difficult, but a roll of flourescent paper with a hole cut out would be an easy remedy to help put these cans in your sight picture when in a dark room.

Another issue I had is that the set does not come with a laser device. You must buy separately a laser training product (preferably LaserLyte) in order to use these cans effectively by dry firing. For the price tag of over $100 dollars and the seemingly simple design / manufacture of these cans, I would assume including one of their training guns would have been feasible for around the same price point. If you already own an actual gun that you'd like to practice with, you can buy a laser cartridge for it.  The only hangup being if its not a double action firearm, you will have to rack the slide each time, resetting the trigger in between engaging the cans.

Overall, these are a novelty BUT a very enjoyable niche target that will offer safe practice indoors. New or unexperienced shooters should really enjoy using these, especially with a plastic blue gun with a laser trainer installed as it takes some of the intimidation factor out of the equation while still being able to practice the laws of gun safety and the fundamentals of proper shooting technique. As easy as these plinking cans will become a party game to some, it can still be a vital training aid used to teach new shooters or help experienced shooters perform better.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: The LaserLyte® Laser Plinking Can Set provides hours of training and entertainment indoors or outdoors without the cost of ammunition or the time spent cleaning up.

Target Market: Both new and experienced shooters with existing Laserlyte products who wish to practice with reactive targets indoors.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product)

  • Weight: 4.25 ounces/.12 kg
  • Length: 3.82 inch/9.7 cm
  • Diameter: 2.00 inch/5.1 cm
  • Battery: 9V       
  • Battery Life: 8,000 Tip Overs
What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  none

What others are saying?: “The LaserLyte worked as they advertised. The laser light had to be in a room with ambient light no direct sunlight or any direct light that could hit the can sensor. The pop out plunger would activate continuously. If I try to use the laser light outside it had to be at dusk no sunlight even in the shadows the ambient sunlight with activate the sensor on the can. The laser light would work well in a room that had no light but the outside ambient light through a window with covering or In a garage with soft-light. It did work outside but with very low light, there was no problem using a laser out to 25 yards to activate the sensor on the laser light. I would recommend this product, but be advise to the buyer you will have limitations to the use of this product." Amazon Review

Price Point:

I need it now! Availability: Readily available at Brownells.com or Amazon.com

Our Rating: + Cans are easy to operate / install battery K +-Provides new shooters a safe atmosphere to practice + Gives experienced shooters a fun training aid - Very sensitive to ambient light, can be frustrating to find an adequate place they will work - Can itself is black with dark red graphics and target area is murky red color and hard to adequately see in low light were laser performs best - Would like to see training pistol (blue gun) included

Score: 7.0 Good

Norton's Universal Cleaning Sticks Review

20140811_200017Norton’s Universal Cleaning Sticks (UCS) are super simple, yet super useful cleaning tools. They are a much better option than using a toothpick to reach all of the gunk in your gun. I know that I’ve broken plenty of those, but no more. Norton’s UCSs are thin, chemical resistant plastic sticks about the size of a popsicle sticks. They are designed to help you reach the little nooks and crannies of your firearms. Each end is sloped to a point. You can fold a cleaning patch over the end, and pass it along rails, under extractors, against bolt faces, and such, to get the crud out of the hard-to-reach areas. You can also use them to gently pry under the disassembly bars of Beretta and 1911 style pistols. They are also small enough to throw in a cleaning kit, and forget about them, until they’re needed. 20140811_195711

A forum member on m1911.org, allstop, reported that his UCSs did not hold up to Hoppe’s No. 9 solvent. He said that it began to eat away at the sticks during his very first use. See his thread on the subject here. Seeing this, I decided to chop one up, and test it. I soaked one piece in Hoppe’s No. 9 solvent and another in Rand CLP. These were the only two things I had on hand, so it’s all I tested. I let them soak, completely covered, for about 6 hours, and there was no damage. I then took them from being completely covered and removed most of the fluid. I figured that maybe the air exposure mixed with the chemical may have a different reaction than the full submersion, but this was not the case. They sat partially covered for about a week and, still, there were no signs of deformation. Allstop did have the orange UCS, and I tested the green, so there may be a variance in material there, but I doubt it. I believe they may have changed their formula to make them more chemical resistant, since his original post dates back to October of 2007.

They are sturdy, useful and cheap. There’s not really a whole lot to say about them, except: Get some!

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: “Used to help provide complete cleaning and assist in the disassembly of modern weapon systems.” – CountyComm website

Target Market: Firearms owners

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Thin
  • Sturdy
  • Flexible
  • Inexpensive
  • Chemical Resistant
  • Gets all the gunk out

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Norton’s UCS are available in many colors, including Neon Green, Orange, Brown, Yellow, and Green.

What others are saying?: Some users have had corrosion problems with solvent, but I have not seen this to be the case. Others seem to really like them.

“Cheap in price, but not in quality.” – cutlerylover

Price Point:

I need it now! Availability: You can get Norton's Universal Cleaning Sticks from CountyComm.com

Our Rating:

+-Useful +-Sturdy +-Inexpensive

Score: 8.5 85

SOG Tactical Tomahawk Review

722014172456 722014172249The SOG Tactical Tomahawk is a useful tool for the outdoors.  It is a compact axe, pick, or hammer.  As one might expect, you can use this for anything that a normal hatchet would be used for.  I have use the Tomahawk for cutting kindling, hammering in tent stakes, and removing stuck in the ground rocks.  Even though it is called "tactical," I use it for more practical uses.  I now leave it in with my camping equipment.  No longer do I have to have a separate hammer and hatchet.  It has held up well to everything I have thrown at it. The head is still tightly affixed to the handle and the edge is still relatively sharp. It might possibly be well suited for backpacking also.

The Tomahawk comes with a nylon sheath (basically a cover for the head of the tomahawk).

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Specifications:

  • Overall Length: 15.75”
  • Head Length: 8.25”
  • Edge Length: 2.75”
  • Weight: 24.0 oz

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:  Versatile utility tool.

Target Market: Anyone who needs a hatchet, hammer, or combo utility tool.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 420 Stainless Steel
  • Hardcased black coating
  • Nylon carry sheath
  • Fiberglass reinforced nylon handle
  • Side hammer checkering
  • Heavy-duty bolts and a steel ferrule for stability

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Hopefully you like Black, because that is what you get.

What others are saying? "A good little tool. When i first picked up my tact. Hawk i was surprised by the weight. I had expected it to be much heavier".  Darlynn from SOG website

"Perfect for Backpacking.  I use it to cut firewood, dig holes, driving tent stakes, pulling tent stakes (see the holes in the blade? perfect!)".  Zaskoda on Amazon

Price Point:

I need it now! Availability:  Amazon, Brownells, or maybe your local gun store.

Our Rating:  

+-Utility +-Size +-Lightweight +-Strong +-Comes with a sheath +-Price

Score: 7.5 Good75

 

 

Chad’s Favorite Link:  U.S. Tactical Supply

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Lyman Case Prep Multi-tool Review

Lyman Case Prep Multi-tool There's about a gajillion different tools out there for reloading. Most tools come in either manual / hand powered versions or a more expensive electric counterpart. For case preparation, you could spend a few hundred dollars on an electric prep station that has spinning heads for each step, or you can buy each tool individually and perform the steps by hand, and save a few extra pennies for powder, primers, bullets, or heck even a new press. One tool I've been using heavily thats gotten the job done and was relatively inexpensive is the Lyman Case Prep Multi-tool.

Lyman Case Prep Multi-tool

Case prepping has 4 steps after you've deprimed, resized and trimmed your casings. If you've trimmed the mouth back down to SAAMI specs after the brass has stretched from firing (every rifle cartridge stretches to some degree over time and repeated firing of same brass piece) then you should chamfer and debur the mouth. This gets rid of any ragged brass filings still clinging to the mouth, and also helps with easier bullet seating and proper chambering in the firearm. The Lyman Multi-tool has both deburrer and chamfer tool which you can thread into each end, letting you simply flip the tool over and complete both tasks with minimal effort, especially if you have a manual or electric way of spinning the brass, like a Lee Zip Trimmer or a case chuck bit for a drill.

Secondly if you are loading rifle rounds that have military primer crimps, you are very familiar with the bane of every reloaders existence. That is, until you have a tool that can ream those crimps out to a wider primer pocket. Lyman provides reamers for both large and small primer pockets (5.56 and 7.62x51 brass made for the military will most likely have the crimp)  After several rotations with the tools, you'll be able to seat a new primer with little resistance.  Also included are a pocket cleaner for both large and small pockets, which can help clean out carbon and dirt and ensure a full spark through the flashhole, and thusly a good powder burn.

Instead of fumbling with 6 different hand tools, or dropping a few hundo's on an electric case prep center, give this multi-tool a try. Its under 25 dollars and is easily stowed away, leaving more room for all the other tools, gauges, and components to clutter your bench.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Provides the reloader with all the essential case preparation accessories in one compact, double-ended storage tool.

Target Market: Reloaders who trim cases and or need to remove military primer crimps

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product)

  • Provides reloader with all the essential accessories
  • All accessories located in one compact, double-ended storage tool
  • Unique knurled handle unthreads in the middle to store all parts
  • Includes inside and outside deburring tools, large and small primer pocket cleaners, and large and small primer pocket reamers
  • Convenient and compact storage
What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Lyman Orange only

What others are saying?:

I used it to prep 100 cases recently. It's handy because all the bits can be stored inside the aluminum case/handle. The functionality is satisfactory because it works. The only drawback is that it is two major pieces (aluminum case) that thread together with bits that are also threaded in. As long as you work the tool in one direction, that's fine, but once you twist counterclockwise with the working end bound to the brass in any way (when chamferring and deburring)the parts start loosening (which is why I can see how the Lyman universal case prep kit with 8 dedicated tools might be preferred -- especially if you have the bench space for it and don't mind the extra cost). It made me wish for my solid, one-piece chamfering/deburring tool that was in the garage while I was leisurely (lazily) working the .308 brass in front of the TV. My solution was to de-thread the two halves apart and use them like two tools with the primer bits sitting on a paper towel. And with that being said, this tool was cheap to buy, does the job, does have a massive handle that prevents finger fatigue, and stores nice and tidy. It is more helpful than it is annoying, which is why, for the price, I would recommend it" -SteveH Amazon.com user

Price Point:

I need it now! Availability: Readily available at brownells.com or Amazon.com

Our Rating:

+-Knurled grip is plenty big enough for heavy use without hand cramps K +-Stores all parts inside to prevent lost bits +-Price is very affordable for 6 tools in one

--Threads loosen if primer pocket reamer or chamfer tool bind up and you rotate counterclockwise, requires acute but quick retightening.

Score: 8.5 Great85

Concealed Carrie Leather Compact Carrie Review

Concealed Carrie Leather Compact Carrie

Concealed Carry is such a beautiful concept. The market for vessels to carry a concealed handgun is exploding as more manufacturers expand their product line, offering an equal opportunity for both men and women to get quality products that fit their lifestyle.  Concealment products are usually unisex, with holsters typically designed for either men or women.  When it comes to outside the body / external carry, there is a rapidly growing market for purses, totes, and handbags designed for concealed carry.  In fact I would no longer considered them niché as how popular pocket sized pistols have become, and how many bag crafters have started incorporated 'concealed pockets' into their products. While some prefer the security of having a pistol holstered on their body, there are times when a female might be unable to conceal on her body as the dress for the occasion may make it impossible.

To clear the air right off the start, yes I have an X and Y chromosome and I am reviewing a product with a female target demographic. It shouldn't matter as being objective and having experience as a concealed carrier should be all the qualification I need. I did however get plenty of perspective and help from my partner, who also carries and knows a thing or two about purses!

Compact Carrie

Concealed Carrie (best brand name ever!) specializes in purses, totes, handbags, and clutches that allow for secure and conceal carry of a compact or subcompact firearms. Their "Compact Carrie" is a compact clutch that has two compartments, one for a firearms mounted with included velcro holster, and the other for your cash, phone, ID and other necessities. The quality of materials of the Compact Carrie are really high, the leather is bright red and the stitching is very well done. It comes with a tassel zipper pull and a keychain as well as a leather wrist strap, which you can choose to use or remove with simple clasps. My partner gave it a thorough look over and found it had plenty of organizing pockets for what she typically has in her standard pocketbook.

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As for the firearm carrying capability we found that with both our compact sized carry pistols (a Glock 26 and M&Pc) the Concealed Carrie Leather Compact Carrie had some extra added bulging. The Glock 26 in the included holster seems to cause printing, which was somewhat noticeable from a close distance that there was something large and heavy in the bag. While it's not enough to prevent the zippers from closing, it was something we both picked up on right away. However if your compact pistol of choice is a single stack with a slimmer profile, say a S&W Shield, Glock 42, Ruger LCP, etc. it will stow in the Compact much easier. Weight also becomes a bit of concern, as a fully loaded 10+1 gunplus another loaded magazine makes the Compact feel hefty to carry via the wrist strap or in the bare hand, and we both agreed stepping up to a purse or tote from Concealed Carrie would be to way to go if your carry gun is anything wider than a subcompact, .85" slide width model.

If you are looking for a stylish way to conceal your pistol on the go, I would say Concealed Carrie is the best way to go, both for the value and craftsmanship you really will be impressed (and more importantly, so will she)

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: The Compact Carrie is perfect for carrying in style to the range or using as a gun bag and wallet

Target Market: Concealed Carrying Women

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Double sided design acts as a wallet on one side while keeping your firearm separate on other side.
  • Zippered main compartment is full of dividers for cash, ID, credit cards and personal items.
  • Firearm compartment is double zippered and velcro-lined (universal holster included)
  • Carry by either the removable wrist strap or simply, grab it and go.
  • Fits any compact or sub-compact handgun will including Glock 19/23, Glock 23/27 or similar size handgun.
What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Red Leather or Cool Blue Leather

What others are saying?:

"Finding your site has brightened my day!  I've been looking for a concealed carry bags for YEARS, but most of them are so ugly and so poorly constructed that they must have been designed by men.  Even other high end lines are just now getting up to speed on quality and design although they still don't equal Concealed Carrie."  ~Susan D.

“Just received this bag as an early Christmas gift from my husband and am absolutely over the moon! It is more beautiful than Photographs can show and so very worth the money. I can conceal any one of my weapons with ease and also get to it with ease. Ever since I started carrying, I’ve been waiting for a fashionable handbag and this is it. I am a Bag Harlot so I own just about every purse made… Louis vuitton, coach, kate spade, even stunning bags from Italy. This bag is as good as or better than those bags I own. It is so well-made and fits right in with my fashion queen persona. just today, I had ten people compliment the bag and ask me where I got it. They don’t even know, which is the way it should be. Thanks!" ~Karla F.

Price Point:

I need it now! Availability: Readily available at concealedcarrie.com or Amazon.com

Our Rating:

+-Holster is double sided with 'loop' velcro of ambidextrous mounting.-per +-Stiching and zippers are good quality and seem to be durable to last. +-Tons of pockets for cards, checkbook, cash, change

--Bag begins to bulge when carrying a double stack pistol, design and profile better suited for a single stack like Ruger LCP or S&W Shield. --With weight of loaded pistol (glock 26 w 10+1 rounds) its really heavy to carry via wrist strap, needs a shoulder strap especially if carrying and extra mag.-

Score: 8.0 Great

 

Glocktech MIC Holster Review

20140727_174018 The Glocktech MIC holster is a zero bulk holster for deep concealment. The idea came about from a law enforcement officer in the mid 90s. Detectives and undercover officers were carrying their firearms by just sticking them in their waistband, sans holster. Mitch, the creator, says  there was a need for a safer alternative, without having to add the bulk of a full belt holster, and thus, the Minimal Inside Carry(MIC) holster was born. It is small, molded Kydex piece that is formed around the trigger guard and is available for 32 different firearms. It simply slips over the trigger guard and protects the trigger. On the front of the holster, just forward of the trigger guard, there is a hole with a cord through it. The cord wraps around your belt, then you stick the holstered pistol into your waistband. The cord that is wrapped around your belt does two things. The first concern of non-holstered carry is that your pistol could slip down your pants and out of your leg, possibly being kicked across the floor at the most inopportune moment. The cord keeps it from going too far down, and falling out. Its other purpose is to adjust carry depth. You can shorten or lengthen the cord by putting a knot in it. If you want it deeper, make the knot further from the holster and if you want it higher, put the knot closer to the holster.

Drawing from the MIC is a little different from a normal holster. You have to draw it with far enough to get the holster to detach from the pistol. It does take a little force, also, so you would need to pull the holster out more vigorously than you would a Kydex, leather, or hybrid holster. You can also draw it to where it is just out of your waist band, then push forward. This will free the holster from the pistol. Watch the video below for visuals of the drawing techniques.

Where this holster shines, is that you can quickly adjust its cant and position without removing a holster. If you carry on your strong hip, driving with a traditional holster can be uncomfortable, because the butt of the grip pushes against the seat and squishes the pistol into your side. With the MIC, there is enough flexibility, with the lack of clips, that it just simply gets pushed forward and makes driving armed incredibly comfortable. The downside to this is that when you exit your vehicle, you’ll have to adjust it back to your normal cant. If getting in and out of a vehicle all day, it may get a little annoying, but if you’re driving all day, it really makes it comfortable.

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Another feature of the MIC is that the cord is heavy enough and the retention is tight enough that if your pistol is somehow knocked/worked loose from your waistband, it holds the pistol, instead of it just hitting the floor. It would be an awkward, and possibly illegal, situation, but at least your gun wouldn't be lying on the floor of the grocery store check-out line for someone else to pick up.

One last feature is that you can wrap the cord around the base of your seat in a vehicle and use the holster in the vehicle by jamming it in between your seat and console. The holster covers the trigger guard and also keeps the pistol from bouncing around in the event of a collision or a sudden stop. See Mr Colion Noir’s video for a better description.

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Glocktech also offers an upgrade for the cord. They call it the Versa Cord. It is a heavier cord than the included one, and it is about twice the length. They advertise it for giving even more range of adjustment, and to also keep something covering your trigger when pocket carrying.

I personally think the MIC is a great holster, but I may be a bit hesitant to refer it to a new concealed carrier. The reason why, is that the handling pretty unorthodox.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Zero bulk, concealed carry holster

Target Market: Concealed carriers and discreet law enforcement officers

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Zero bulk
  • Adjustable carry depth
  • Very versatile
  • Great for driving

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The MIC is only available in black, but, despite the Glocktech name, the MIC is available for many more firearms.

What others are saying?: “When you use a product like this, you have removed all the risk of this type of carry” –The Yankee Marshall

Price Point:

  • MSRP = $18.95 + Shipping
  • MSRP = $20.95 for MIC with Versa Cord
  • Retail = $22.99 with Free shipping

I need it now! Availability: You can purchase the Glocktech MIC holster from Amazon and directly from Glocktech.

Our Rating:

+-No bulk +-Simple +-Versatile +-Great for driving +-Inexpensive

--A little bit of a nuisance when going from sitting to standing

Score: 9.0 90

HexMag HX30-AR Magazine Review

dsc_7423Being the host of the AR-15 Podcast, I was asked by the Powers That Be over at the Firearms Insider to take a look at a new MSR magazine offering manufactured by Hexmag. I examined the magazines that arrived and was struck by the feel of these new magazines.  They feel substantial and more durable than some of the lesser quality magazines on the market today.  I think we all know who the 800 pound gorilla in the room is when it comes to polymer magazines, and these seemed quite comparable.  Sure, they don’t have the years of experience working with polymer that the top dog has, but for a first offering, these magazines are real nice. hexid-hero_clipped2One of the chief features that seems to distinguish these magazines from the pack is the inclusion of a purpose designed interchangeable follower/latchplate system called the HexID Color Identification System.  The intent of HexID seems geared to give end users the ability to color code their magazines for quick visual differentiation when they are loaded with different ammunition types or even different calibers.  I like to see manufacturers who are willing to push the envelope and defy convention.

My time at the range with the Hexmags proved to my satisfaction that their design and manufacture was on par with my expectations for any magazine.  They were reliable and I had no difficulties that were in any way attributable to the magazines.  I don’t want you to think that I torture tested these magazines, because I didn't.  I looked through some of the promotional material and a few YouTube sources.  There doesn't appear to be anything earth shattering to indicate poor design or poor materials performance, so I didn't think I could add anything productive by undertaking my own torture tests.

One last thing that I think is important to note is that Hexmag offers a lifetime warranty on these magazines.  I think you must applaud any company that is willing to stand by the products they manufacture.

The only criticism I have about the magazines is one that has absolutely nothing to do with their quality or capabilities.  While I applaud Hexmag’s innovation and creativity, I don’t know why I need the HexID system.  It seems like a solution that was searching for a problem.  In the past I've never felt such a compelling need to differentiate my magazines that I had to seek out a DIY solution for my magazines.  Now don’t get me wrong, I would spend my hard earned money on these magazines.  I just wouldn't spend money on the different colors of follower/latchplate sets.

I still like where Hexmag was going with the design and implementation of the HexID system and to me that says a great deal about Hexmag’s potential and capabilities.  With novel innovations and a willingness to stretch envelopes, I have no doubt Hexmag has the potential to innovate in ways that will attract even more fans.  So in conclusion, I don’t think you can go wrong buying Hexmag HX30-AR magazines.

Firearms Insider Reviews ‑ 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Interchangeable follower/latchplate system: HexID Color Identification System

Target Market: Owners of AR-15 rifles that can use STANAG magazines.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Impact Resistant Fiber-reinforced Nylon Polymer Construction
  • Raised Hexagon Pattern for Improved Manipulation
  • Tool-free Latchplate Design for Quick Disassembly
  • HexID Color Identification System
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Made in the USA!

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Color coded magazines using HexID

What others are saying?: "In sum, my impression of the HX30-AR magazine was a very positive one. While I wouldn’t suggest PMag owners selling off their stock and buying a pile of new HX30-ARs, I think I might choose the HX30-AR over the Gen M2 Pmag if I were looking to buy new magazines." ‑ Nathaniel F, The Firearms Blog

Price point:

I need it now! Availability:  The HexMag Magazine is available right now at Apex Gun Parts

Our Rating:

+-Reliable +-Reasonably Priced +-Sturdy Construction +-Good Materials +-Lifetime Warranty 

- HexID just doesn’t seem like a compelling feature

Score: 7.575

 

 

Reed's Links:

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Esstac Shotgun Cards Review

Esstac Shotgun Card Running and gunning with a shotgun is both simple and complicated. Guns are typically lighter and less cluttered with accessories than carbines, however the ammo is large and clunky. Digging for shells in a pocket or pouch is "slow speed and high drag" while adding a side saddle to the receiver is the optimum way as the shells are already a couple inches from being reloaded into the action / magazine tube.

The higher end systems like Mesa Tactical units are aluminum and parkerized, and they carry a heavy price tag.  They are also more permanent and add bulk to the side of your gun, taking up room in the gun case or the safe. Plastic versions like the TacStar are also an option, and a lower cost than the aluminum option but still requires a semi permanent modification to your shotgun, and in some guns actually will interfere with the forearm of pump action shotguns.

The simplest solution is often the best one. Velcro backed, nylon constructed Esstac Shotgun Cards are a great alternative with a few great advantages.  There are some negative points I've experienced that come as a trade off.

The positives: ability to add a side saddle to your shotgun without any permanent modification or even tools for that matter. That, and you can literally stick it anywhere... a stock, a vest, a jacket, etc. Modularity is my favorite word. They also fit in carbine magazine pouches.

The negatives: fully loaded with 7 12 gauge shells the card with bend, or warp. When left adhered to a flat solid surface (your gun's receiver) it will either start to separate from the velcro, or worse separate the velcro from it's adhesive backing.  The latter happened to me and luckily the adhesive layer left came of with some persistent rubbing and the glue came off in one ball of gunk. The cards do not come with the other half of the velcro equation so fault is with the "loop" velcro I purchased elsewhere at a craft store. More industrial strength stuff is out there but I fear it would not have been so kind to the parkerization of my Mossberg 930.

If you are looking for a cheap system that will reduce the time of your shotgun reloads, these cards are worth a try. Just don't leave one loaded and attached to your favorite gun.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Shell carrier or side saddle, fits in an M4 Mag Pouch for quick changes too.

Target Market: Tactical or competitive shotgun users as well as hunters

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Velcro interface sticks to gear or mounts to shotguns
  • Elastic shell sleeves
  • Paracord loop for easy removal
  • Fits in an M4 pouch
  • Rubber interior strip to add in friction retention of shells
What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black, Coyote Brown, Ranger Green,  Multicam

What others are saying?: “Saw these on YouTube and had to try them. Bought two and they are exactly what I needed! Have seven rounds on the side and can have seven more of a differnt type of round ready to change out. The hassle of unloading the side saddle and then reloading is gone. Just tear off the card and put the new one on. The cards fit perfectly inside an AR style mag pouch so you can carry as many as you have room for. Can't wait to get more."  review from Brian, Altamont IL (skdtac.com user)

Price Point:

I need it now! Availability: Readily available at skdtac.com

Our Rating:

+-Price point makes it possible to get multiple cards for the price of a solid aluminum or plastic side saddle, but better suited for rapid replacement. +-Esstac Shotgun Cards remain flat when not in use, and allow for slimmer profile in storage. +  Customer Service from Otter Box (parent company) was prompt and satisfactory. - -Does not include "loop" side of velcro, you must find your own (industrial strength backing maybe overkill and damage firearm finish, so its all on you to find whats best). --Entire card warps in an arc when loaded with shells, and maybe cause separation of mount from surface, or adhesive from velcro.

Score: 6.5 Okay

 

N82 Tactical Original Holster Review

IMG_0949.jpg

N8 Squared Original with Glock 19 Although my current geographical situation precludes me from carrying concealed, being a good American consumer, and a lover of all things gun related, I still get holsters every once in a while. Perhaps, it's just in case hell freezes over and NJ becomes a shall issue state, or maybe as a pinch of preparedness. Either way, just like my firearms collection, the handguns that I have holsters for are varied. Outside the waistband holster for the like of my Sig 226 and kydex IWB holster for my Glock 19 and now the N82 Tactical Original for my little J-frame or Glock 19.

N82 Original with SW Airweight

In carry philosophy, there are a few ideals which need to be lived up to in varying degrees. One is the concept of that the best carry handgun is the one you have with you, it is the one that you will have on your person every day no days off. This can be lived up to, depending on where you are located, where you travel, work, etc. Another one is more in the application of the holster. The weapons security is crucial in a defensive scenario. You could need to run, drive, or carry someone, basically anything that would require two hands in the middle of, or after, the shooting. For the very same reason you use a holster in the first place and carry it concealed, you want to carry that defensive tool in as safe and secure a manner as possible. What I am getting at is re-holstering ability. If you pocket carry with no holster, then it’s a moot point, but if you're carrying using a holster, the ability to re-holster that defensive tool could be a deal breaker in your philosophy of use.

To me, these are the two biggest considerations, aside from concealability, to consider when choosing a holster. A concealed carry permit does you no good if you can’t carry safely in all manner of dress or it is not comfortable and you leave it at home. So, to me, the consistency of your carry slightly edges out re-holster ability.

Something else that impresses me is the price. The most powerful impact of the concealed carry movement is that it re-took the right to self defense from the elite and rich and brought it back to the people. The affordable price point on the original design makes a very comfortable, secure carry system available to more people which, in my book, is a good thing. Put a used J-frame in this holster and for less than 300 bucks total you will have a reliable proven gun with great defensive loads in a comfortable, secure holster and, all-in-all, will be a system that can pretty much disappear on most people.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Concealment, Comfort.

Target Market: Entry level carry

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Suede leather backing
  • Neoprene midlayer
  • Steel Clip
  • Comfortable against the skin
  • Neoprene stops body oils and sweat from contacting firearm
  • Thin and minimalist design improves concealability

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: They make this same holster but with a different clip that makes the unit tuckable. They also make the professional line which is a polymer molded unit attached to the same comfortable platform. N82 products page

What others are saying?:

Big Tex Outdoors Youtube

Price point:

MSRP = $39 +9.50 shipping Retail = $39 +8 shipping at Tacdaddy.com

I need it now! Availability: You can buy these at the above mentioned sites and a quick Amazon search yielded two left handed models on there but no right handed models.

Our Rating

+-Comfort +-Concealability +-Construction

--No re-holster ability

Score 7.575

 

Featured FFL:

I enjoy working with Dynamic Combat Solutions in Wayne, NJ for all my FFL services and custom gunsmithing needs.

My Links

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Lifeproof iPhone Case Review

Lifeproof iPhone Case colors Picking a case for your smartphone is kinda like picking shoes these days. There is a function to the form, and yet there is a plethora of aesthetic options out there that sometimes leads to the primary purpose of the object being diminished. Shoes protect the feet, period. Same goes for a phone case.  It's purpose is to protect (or encase) your phone, protecting it from accidental and negligent damage.  Then home come the majority of the phone cases on the store shelves are purely plastic carbon copies, merely cheaply made shells with pretty colors? They cover the back of the phone and the sides, but what if you drop it on it's screen? Toast. Or if it drops in the toilet, or you spill your coffee on it in the morning on the way to work?

If you're like me, I waited awhile to get a smartphone. Not until it was free under my carrier, but mostly as my professional life needed it as a tool. I chose not to pay a monthly insurance on my new phone, as I felt I'd be pretty careful with it. We all get complacent with things we use on a daily basis, and I've dropped and had near catastrophic splash downs too many times to count. After literally wearing a Magpul Field Case out, I decided to research a better replacement that would actually do what a phone cover should do, protect your phone from yourself, and the elements. What I found was the Lifeproof iPhone Case.

Lifeproof iPhone Cases

It didn't take me long to find the Lifeproof series of cases in my research.  Not only were they waterproof, shockproof, dustproof, and snowproof, but they didn't make it look like I was smuggling a brick in my pants. The price was high, but with the claims of protection and color options available, I thought I would bite. Turns out I bit twice, as I could not make up my mind between orange and camo. Not to contradict myself about the whole color / accesorizing / superficial rant, but as a sportsman those two colors really appeased me. I ended up sticking with the orange, because I could honestly see myself losing the phone in the woods, in a pile of camo gear, or at the bottom of a creek or pond. Orange would be something I could spot and dive after, or not accidentally sit on. However the Realtree camo pattern really has the cool factor, and if I spent more time in the office and no time outdoors with my phone I would have totally gone with it. For now Firearms Insider Orange is how I roll.

colors

The case comes in two parts, front and back. Installation is easy enough, you clean your phone and the inside of both cases really, really well. Like a father cleaning his gun on his daughter's prom night. Any dirt, specs, hair, etc. will prevent the O-ring from achieving a proper seal and you will be susceptible to water leaking in. But the two halves snap together with some force and feel really solid together, the seams should close tightly if you cleaned correctly. There's a threaded plug to keep water and crud out of your audio port, and the case comes with an adapter for headphones since the regular jacks wont fit without it, my advice is order two extra. Also, the case may not let your phone fit in a stereo dock, but that's a minor inconvenience that's pales to the security you get.

Lifeproof also makes cases for Samsung Galaxy, iPads, and the new iPhones. Yes the pricetag is a bit steep but the first time you drop or spill on your phone, it certainly paid for itself. Hard to beat that logic.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: The hazards of everyday life are no match for LifeProof

Target Market: Smartphone users who recreate outdoors or drop their phones alot

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Polycarbonate Frame with shock absorbing elastomer
  • Scratch resistant screen protector with anti-reflective lens over device's camera
  • Only 10.8 mm thick
  • Waterproof: Submersible up to 2 meters underwater
  • Dirtproof: Sealed against dirt and debris, protects glass screen from abrasions
  • Snowproof: Sealed against snow
  • Shockproof: Designed to Military Specs and tested to 2 meter drop
  • Includes gold plated headphone adaptor that also seals
What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black, Blue, Orange, Pink, Green, White, Red, Realtree Camo, etc. Lots of Colors and patterns to choose from, and vinyl stickers also widely available for customization

What others are saying?: “Previously my daughter had an Otterbox (and it cracked). So I really had to question my daughter when she bought her case because of the cost. Less then a week after purchasing it she lost it in a snow bank. It was outside in the snow & rain for 5 days. Both my husband and I had our doubts but when it was found the phone worked just fine like nothing ever happened to it. I will now be purchasing a case for my phone soon! Thank you Lifeproof it is worth every penny!!!"  review from Lifeproof Product Page

Price Point:

I need it now! Availability: Readily available at lifeproof.com

Our Rating:

+-Waterproof seal was good out of the box, and instructions on care are thoroughi +-Includes extended earphone adapter that doesn't hinder waterproof seal +  Customer Service from Otter Box (parent company) was prompt and satisfactory - -Price is high for materials / what you get --Audio quality suffers slightly due to seal (to be expected) - Most docks unable to interface with phone while case is installed

Score: 8.5 Great

 

CCOP USA 1-6X30 Tactical Rifle Scope with Illuminated Reticle Review

1624i_1Allow me to let you into a little industry insider secret. Everyone walking the SHOT show has a shopping list.  It doesn't matter if you are from the media, a retailer, manufacturer, owner or representative, we all walk around the grounds of SHOT with an item in mind we want to checkout/try/asses for the purposes of buying it later.  I’m no different, one of my top items in mind while I was wondering the endless halls of the 2014 SHOT show was a variance 1-4X or 1-6X tactical scope for my favorite AR15.  Don’t get me wrong. ACOGs are great and so are EOTechs but they are very specialized and wonderfully engineered tools that will execute the task they were built for flawlessly while burning a very big hole in your pocket… I was on a task to find a good quality glass that will give me both the CQB red-dot reflex sight capabilities but will also give me some magnification capabilities for the 75-200 yard range where a red dot sight starts to be more of a guess and less of a precision tool.  I could, I suppose, go for an EOTech with a magnifier, but there are 2 things I didn’t like about this combo: first, the logistics of mounting/un-mounting and the need to carry the magnifier somewhere while it’s not mounted was a little too annoying for me. Second was the painful $1000 price tag (on the low end!)  All of the above made the variance scopes very popular recently with the tactical shooting community, particularly the AR15 and AK47 owners.

So, I’ve set a goal to find something good for a sub $300 budget.  Now don’t get me wrong, I checked, felt and drooled over ALL the optics in the 1-4X/1-6X categories. I’ve been to every optics vendor from Sun Optics to NightForce. I checked the offering from Vortex, US Optics, Leupold, and many other vendors I can’t remember their names (so, so many…)  After 3 loooooonnnnnggg days of wondering the grounds, in a dark corner of the basement level, I ran into a small booth of a company called CCOP-USA. A new(ish) Chinese manufacturer that I haven’t seen before that offers all kinds of optics and optics accessories. Tired and disappointed that I couldn't find what I was looking for, I had no big expectations for their product and figured they’d be low quality as most of the other no-name eastern manufacturers I saw so far.

1624i_6Boy was I wrong. First, they had both 1-4x AND 1-6X options. The first thing you notice when you look through the glass is how clear it is and how much light goes through it. This is probably due to the 30mm tube (most other 1-4X optics have a 24mm tube which let less light through.The Illuminated reticle and the big diameter make it feel like a red-dot reflex sight. Having the reticle backed by the black reticle and lines guarantee that even if the battery runs out you can still use the optics (point down for EOTech on this one).  One huge compliment for these guys is that their 1X is the closest 1X I’ve seen in any of these 1-4X/1-6X optics. Including some of the expensive brands!

1624i_3A twist of the ring and you get up to 6X magnification. Considering most “budget” scopes are 3-9X this covers a very good distance.  So, getting one is a little slow (about 7-10 days to get it) but when I got it, I couldn't wait to mount it and head to the range.

I had it mounted on my PS90 with a one piece scope mount that also positioned the optics high enough at my eyes level.

1624i_2

Zeroing was real easy thanks to the “clicks” adjustment mechanism on the scope (which usually only exist on the more expensive scopes).1624i_4

I had it zero at 25 yards and then switched to 50 yards, 75 yards and 100 yards. I had no problem staying on target and hitting every time.  SO, to the question you’re probably asking yourself by now, what’s the cost?  Well, this is one of the coolest thing about this scope. MSRP is only $310 and you can find retail in the $190-$250 range.  I gave this product a score of 8.0.  The only reason I didn’t score it higher is because I don’t have it long enough to testify to its long term usage durability but I promise I’ll have a follow up review in a few months.

I guess SHOT was successful after all…

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Best Bang for your buck in the variance range tactical scopes

Target Market: Tactical shooters / AR15 and AK47 owners that look for a budget aware alternative

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Model: SCP-1624i
  • Magnification: 1X-6X
  • Tube Diameter: 30mm
  • Objective Diameter: 24mm
  • Field of view @100yards: 115-19.2ft
  • Eye Relief: 4.5"-4"  
  • Exit Pupil: 10-4mm  
  • Click Value: 1/2"  
  • Length: 265mm  
  • Weight: 508g
  • Reticle: CQB
  • Illumination: Red / Green
  • W/E: ≥40'  

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: Comes with a soft elastic scope cover

What others are saying?: Their eBay store has over 3700 reviews with a positive percentage of 99.7%

Price Point:

MSRP = $310 Retail = $225

I need it now! Availability: CCOP USA 1-6X30 Tactical Rifle Scope is available here.

Our Rating:

+ Easy on the budget + A twofer: you get a CQB sight and a 6X scope in one package + Zero adjustment is easy with no tools required + Shock proof + Water proof + Fog proof + Illuminated reticle + Black reticle marking to backup in case of dead battery

- New/unfamiliar manufacturer with no history or long term reviews. - Shipping could take up to 10-15 business days

Score: 8.0 Great80

 

 

Joseph's Featured Link:

Big D Armory

BigDArmory

MTech USA Fixed Blade Survival Knife

MTech Fixed Blade Survival Knife "Even when the world is at peace, a gentleman still keeps a blade by his side" - Wu Tsu

A good survival blade is a staple to any kit, not just a "survival" kit, hunting pack, or any S-H-T-F bug out/bug in bag. Some may choose a folding knife for ease of portability and concealment. For others, a fixed blade is more utilitarian and I couldn't agree more. More than just cutting, stabbing, or prying can be done with a good, solid, one piece construction knife. It can be affixed to a straight branch for a classic Lord of the Flies style pig sticker! Most fixed blade knives are also serrated on the spine for the ability to saw as well, and thats exactly what I have in this Mtech USA Outdoor Fixed Blade Knife.

Although the packaging only indicates this knife as model HK-106280, this blade is known online as the MTech USA Fixed Blade Survival Knife. MTech USA is a brand under Master Cutlery. This 11" Tanto style full tang knife is made from 440 stainless steel with a 90 degree crossguard (also known as a quillion) and has a cord-wrapped handle. First, my evaluation of the blade: It comes fairly dull out of the box as most blades do. It took a sharpening well after a few minutes on a diamond sharpener, but not too easily like other "cheap" knives. 440 Stainless steel will lose it's edge sharpness with use more than Carbon Steel, so a diamond sharpener or wet stone would be a must to pack with this knife. The price point did worry me, as most steel knifes around the $20 mark would be rubbish. This isn't Kabar or Gerber quality, but its not poor either. I personally like knives with crossguards to this degree, as it assists with lashing it to a stick, or otherwise protecting your gripping hand when sharpening and cutting.

The cordage is not 550 paracord and seems to be a weaker variant. I wouldn't rely on it as shoe string, let along as a snare or any type of binding material that I depended on. I plan on replacing with the 550 which is an easy and cheap remedy.

The knife comes in a nylon sheath and it is actually well constructed. The edges of the sheath are reinforced with the stitches seem pretty solid. There is a little pocket sewn onto the front for the fire starter, a Ferrocerium Rod. It also comes with the same cordage as a lanyard but in black. It doesn't produce a big spark, so remember Spanish Moss is your best friend. I still plan on packing a lighter.

This is a decent knife for the low price, which I believe comes from it being made in China. But for a coming of age teen or a cheapskate looking for a beater of a knife, this would fit the bill.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Solid construction and functionality at an affordable price.

Target Market: Hunters, Campers, Survivalists, Outdoor Recreationalists, GI Joe types

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 11" Overal Length
  • 6" Matte Finish
  • 440 Stainless Steel
  • Full Tang handle
  • Tanto with saw serrations on spine
  • 5" Green Cord Wrapped Handle
  • Magnesium Alloy Fire Starter
  • Nylon Sheath
What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Matte stainless with OD green sheath and cordage only, other models with different finished available here.

What others are saying?: “My wife bought this knife for me a week ago after I told her my buddy had invited us to his cabin for a weekend. When I tell you I used this knife for EVERYTHING, I kid you not. The blade on this is solid and the parallel “saw” like blade made this knife so much better. The fire starter works better than matches and is much more accessible. (At least for me, I tied mine to the knife when I got it) The nylon sheath for storing is a nice touch, especially when you want to keep this knife on your pocket, which you definitely will.  I would definitely recommend this item." - avila user, Amazon.com Review

Price Point: MSRP: $24.00 Retail: $10.93

I need it now! Availability: Readily available at Amazon.com

Our Rating:

+-Price is good!ri +-Sheath is adequate and stores firestarter rod - -Cordage is not 550 paracord quality-Cord --440 Stainless Steel will lose it edge quicker than other higher grades, so bring a sharpener!

Score: 7.0 Good

 

Radetec Ammocontrol Digital Counter for an AR 15

Radetec Digital Counter for the AR-15 The Radetec Ammocontrol Digital Counter is an interesting piece of gun gear.  At first I was like, "are you telling me that people can't count and figure out how many shots they have fired or have left available?"  But then I realized that I was coming from the mindset of taking practice shots at the range.  So I thought about it some more and realized that this piece of gear does have some niche uses.  The one that stands out most in my mind is magazine changes.  If you are training for tactical situations, the timing of changing out your magazines could be critical.  The Radetec Ammocontrol Digital Counter will assist you in figuring out the best times and or situations to change out those magazines.  On top of all that, the counter is light weight and super easy to install.  Overall, this a real nice piece of training equipment.

By Glenn Girone

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Digitally track how man shots were fired or are remaining.

Target Market: From tactical trainers to every day shooters.

FNB's: (features and benefits of this product)

  • Displays exact # of rounds left inside the magazine either by digital screen or by manual activation button
  • Displays exact # of shot fired on the digital screen
  • Polymer construction - highly shock and temperature resistant
  • Auto dim feature for low light situations
  • Light weight
  • Uses 1 CR2016/CR2032 battery

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Currently, Radetec only offers this product in black.

What others are saying:  From great to horrible, the reviews are mixed.  Check out the link and review below.

Price Point:

I need it now!  Availability:  You can readily find this available at Radetec or Amazon.

Our Rating:

+-Not obtrusive +-Easy attachment +-Great for teaching fundamentals and timing of reloading

--Expensive

Score: 7.0 Good70

 

 

 

California Competition Works 12 Gauge Speed Stripper Review

California Competition Works 12 Gauge Speed Stripper With all the pistol and carbine mag pouches out there on the market, a lot of people forget about a carrying system for the largest and clunkiest of the munitions, the 12 gauge shotgun shell. Instead of fishing around a dump pouch or pocket blindly for shells chaotically, there are belt caddies available to hold shells in the same direction, and in an easily accessible way. The lest expensive option I've found is the California Competition Works 12 Gauge Speed Stripper. I bought a couple of 4 round strippers while there are strippers with 6 packs available. You know what I mean. The caddy can hold 2 3/4" and 3" shells and its quite robust, the metal clip on the back is extremely rigid. Luckily the supplier demooner.com offers the same caddies with different backing systems. The only downsides are the shells rattle quite, and when you are running/active with only 2 or 1 shell left in caddy it is likely to come out. As a beginning 3 Gunner looking to accommodate shotgun shells onto their belt, look no further than these from California Competition Works.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Provides controlled carry of 12 gauge shells for fast, fumble-free reloads.

Target Market: Bird hunters, Skeet/Trap Shooters, 3 Gun Competitors

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Available in either 4 or 6 round configurations
  • Belt Clip ride height is adjustable (only 2 positions)
  • Multiple mount options available through www.demooner.com
What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black, Coyote Brown, & Orange

What others are saying?: “Works well in Practical shooting. Capacity of four definitely the correct size for me, as four rounds is the maximum I can hold in my hand while feeding my gun. Comes with two spacers to adjust the stripper for different length of cartridges. You have to use both spacers with extra short rounds like S&B Practical Sport. With one spacer extra short rounds can fall off. This also means that the stripper doesn't cope well with mixed length rounds. Few downsides though: - Rattles which prevents hunting usage - If the stripper is not packed full, remaining round(s) may fall off while moving. This limits tactical usage, if there's a need to feed only one, two or three rounds into the gun. All in all a simple, rugged and very good product." - puppe user, Brownells.com review

Price Point: Retail: $25.99

I need it now! Availability: Readily available at Brownells

Our Rating:

+-Retains 4 shells securely and easy to load up +-Price is under other competitors, easy to afford multiples +-Includes spacers to accommodate 2 3/4" shells --Metal Clip on back is overly rigid and extremely hard to clip on belt. --When caddy is not 100% full (-1 or 2 shells) remaining shells are able to fall out during rapid movement --Shells rattle loudly in caddy (using spacers and 2 3/4" shells) which may spook some game during hunting

Score: 8.0 Great

Beretta Hearing Protection Review

Beretta ear muffs Your hearing, once you loose it .... you can never get it back.  With that being said, proper hearing protection can not be stressed enough.  It doesn't matter whether you are shooting .22LR or a cannon, all of us should be stressing the importance of hearing protection.  OK, enough of the safety talk and now onto the main event.  Recently I purchased the above pictured Beretta Hearing Protection ear muffs.  I am normally a push in ear plug man, but I thought I would get myself something  different.  The Beretta ear muffs are low profile and fully adjustable.  However, they seem to require some breaking in or just loosening up.  Using them right out of the box, they just felt very stiff to adjust and get comfy.  As far as function, I had n0 problems what-so-ever.  I could hold a conversation with my friends and shoot well over 100 clays with a 12 gauge.  Overall I am very pleased with the product, but time will tell as I break them in.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: Low profile and compact design for protection and value.

Target Market: All shooters who wish to keep their hearing in place.

FNB's:  (Features and Benefits of this product)

  • Fully adjustable
  • Compact
  • Protection of db-25
  • Lanyard attachment

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Beretta offers these in green, blue and black.  Beretta USA

What others are saying?: 

  • Beretta USA reviewers are giving them 4.5 out of 5 stars.
  • Optics Planet - only 1 review posted and the user gave them 2 out of 5 stars.
  • Amazon reviewers are giving them 4 out of 5 stars.

Price Point:

I need it now! Availability: Readily available on-line at Beretta USA, Optics Plant and Amazon.

Our Rating:

+-Compact +-Adjustable +-Lanyard

--Need to be broken in/loosened up

Score: 8.5 Great85

 

Jared prefers Simon Peter Sport Company for all his FFL needs.

 Simon Peter Sport banner

Lone Wolf Dist Glock Magazine Disassembly Tool Review

20140623_193736 Last week, Zack, from Lone Wolf Distributors, and formerly of Gun Guy Radio, posted on Lone Wolf’s Facebook seeking two people to review a new tool from them. I jumped on it and got the tool.

20140623_193951The Lone Wolf Dist Glock Magazine Disassembly Tool is an insanely simple tool designed to disassemble any of Glock’s magazines, including the new .380. The way it works, you simply slide the tool onto the baseplate. There are three slots that correspond with each size magazine(9mm/.40/.357/45GAP, 45/10mm, and .380). There are also two holes that correspond to the different mags. They are engraved with “Small”, for the .380, and “Large”, for everything else. Once you insert the mag, you push your Glock Tool(or any stiff punch) through the correct hole, and it depresses the mag plate button. Once that’s done, place the tool with the magazine oriented “bullets-forward” onto a hard surface, and push the mag body down. The tool holds the plate, while you slide the body off of it. When you pull the tool off, you can place your thumb over the baseplate, to catch the spring, and slide it the rest of the way off. It’s really that simple, or maybe even simpler than I just made it sound.

Lone Wolf posted this video to show the operation. There’s no sound, but it’s incredibly simple.

The review sample I received was aluminum “in the white”, but the final product will be black anodized. They also told me that you can have them custom engraved, if you’d like. They are also offering it as a package with the Glock Tool, for those people that got a Gen 4, lost their tool, or just want an extra.

Bottom line, if you own a single Glock magazine, you’ll want this tool!

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: This tool makes Glock magazines effortless to disassemble.

Target Market: ALL Glock owners

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Solid aluminum
  • Fits all Glock magazines
  • Simple disassembly of mags

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The tool is only available in black, at this time.

What others are saying?: “Does save some time and aggravation especially if you're taking apart a lot of mags all at once.” - Hank Strange

Price Point:

  • MSRP = $14.95 (tool only)
  • MSRP = $24.90 (with Glock tool)

I need it now! Availability: At this time, the Magazine Disassembly tool is only available directly from Lone Wolf Dist.

Our Rating:

+-Effortless magazine disassembly +-Compatible with all Glock mags +-Solid aluminum

Score: 9.5Amazing

 

 

Timney Model 510 Trigger Review

Timney Triggers 510 for Remington 700 rifles There's a lot of options when it comes to aftermarket Remington 700 triggers. Just one of the benefits of owning the Honda Civic of the bolt action rifle world. One manufacturer stands out to me from the rest with the most experience and most variety of models, and that's Timney Triggers.

The 510 trigger is curved, and comes with a trigger blocking safety. That means there's no way to move the trigger when it's on safe, so when you take it off safe the trigger stays in the same position it started from.

Timney Triggers 510 for Remington 700 rifles

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: The Model 510 will bring a whole new realm of accuracy to your rifle and is the World's finest trigger, proudly made in the USA since 1946

Target Market: Hunters, Long Range target shooters

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • The 510 comes with a safety that blocks the trigger, not the sear
  • No screws, drilling, or tapping required
  • Each trigger is geometrically identical with tolerances less than .0005”. adjustable from 1.5 to 4 lbs.
  • Made from a solid block of heat treated steel; there's no 'connector bar' to come loose.
What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Straight Trigger Shoe style and "tactical" style available

What others are saying?: “I have installed these triggers in several guns, I have put six in Remington 700 alone. They are easy to instal & work perfectly. MADE IN USA. Christian Company. They are the most value for the least amount of dollars in the third party trigger market. One person had me put one in his 700. He like it so well, he brought three more 700s from his brother & son & I put Timney Triggers in them. Smiles as wide as TEXAS." - lcjones user, Brownells.com review

"I've never bought an aftermarket trigger nor installed one before. Bought a Timney and it dropped in. No problem. It worked out so well, I bought 2 more. Both were drop-ins. The last one took me 10 minutes max to install. Couldn't ask for a better trigger pull." Taildragger user, Brownells.com review

Price Point:

MSRP: $134.95 Retail: $130.99

I need it now! Availability: Readily available at  Timney Triggers and Brownells

Our Rating:

+-Crisp trigger pull, can be set at the factory as low as 1.5 lbs. +-Easy to install (YouTube videos) +-Enhanced safety, completely resolves the factory recall issue while giving you an awesome trigger pull

--Installation instructions were cheaply printed with less than easy to follow black and white diagrams.

Score: 8.5 Great

 

LaserLyte Reaction Tyme Kit Review

Reaction Tyme KitThe Laserlyte Reaction Tyme Kit is a laser training system that consists of a Universal Pistol Laser Trainer, a Trigger Tyme Compact Training Pistol, and a Reaction Tyme Target. Universal Pistol Laser Trainer:

Reaction Tyme Real

Reaction Tyme GunThe Universal Pistol Laser Trainer is a laser unit that fits slips into the bore of any pistol, from 9mm to .45 cal. This is accomplished by an arbor that screws into the rear of the unit, which expands as you tighten the screw. The front end of the unit is tapered, to keep the laser centered in each caliber. Once installed, the laser will activate whenever the striker or hammer of the pistol falls. It runs on three tiny 377 tablet batteries. The unit comes with three pre-installed and three more for replacement. There is a small plastic disk to keep the batteries separated from the circuit during storage and shipping. Make sure it’s removed before use, or it will not work. The way the laser is activated is that the unit is “listening” for the striker/hammer fall. This means that, if the circuit is complete, during storage, the batteries will run down very quickly. The laser is easily seen indoors, but I believe Laserlyte should offer a green option, for outdoor use. That would allow you to get out to longer ranges, while still having the benefit of not having to spend money on ammo. The manual says that the unit requires at least a two inch barrel, and I confirmed that it would not fit in the standard 1.875" J-frame barrel, without impeding the cylinder rotation. Laserlyte has incorporated a plug that goes on the end of the battery cap that you can flip over and stick it into the battery compartment. This disconnects the circuit, while also keeping everything together. This system could be done a little better, because it is just a rubber plug that can be knocked out, if it’s bouncing around in a bag, or something. I would prefer a threaded cap, to keep it all together.

Reaction Tyme Laser

In my traditionally rifled barrel, the arbor slipped right in when tightened properly. In my Glock, with polygonal rifling, the arbor would grab the rifling, and tighten itself, causing it to flare out even more and get stuck, before it is fully seated. This is easily overcome by making the arbor loose enough to where it just barely engages the rifling, but will tighten up as it is inserted. The laser unit will fit into the bore of a .380, but it was very tight in my Kahr CW 380, so it had to be loosened.

When I first got my kit, the laser unit was faulty. It would activate properly, but it was very dim. I contacted Laserlyte’s customer service, and got a response within an hour. The representative sent me out a new laser, along with a return sticker for the faulty one. She was even kind enough to throw in a 12 pack of replacement batteries. This was about as good of a customer service experience you could get.

Trigger Tyme Compact Training Pistol:

Reaction Tyme Compare

The Trigger Tyme Compact Training Pistol is a completely inert training pistol with a resetting trigger, which means that you don’t have to do any additional actions between each trigger pull. It has a bore that will accept the Universal Laser Trainer. The resetting trigger makes an audible “Click” that is picked up by the laser and activates it. I do not have a trigger pull gauge, so I was not able to actually test it, but it feels a few pounds heavier than my Glock stock trigger. The pistol has basic, black sights on it. They are very similar to the basic Glock sights, just without the white dot and box. The Laserlyte website states that the dimensions are very similar to the Springfield XD-S. The grip is very slim and short. The rear beavertail of the grip has relatively sharp corners, so it can be rather uncomfortable to train with. I decided to file and round the corners to make it a little easier on the web of my hand.

Reaction Tyme Compare 1When I ordered this kit, I did not realize that it came with the compact version of their pistol, so once I tried the compact one out, I ordered their full-size, which is very similar in dimensions to the Glock 19/23. It has the same sight and trigger. It will fit in my Concealment Solutions hybrid holster, but not in the Serpa holster, because the “slide” is a little thicker. The beavertail is not sharp, like the compact version, which is very good, as it’s actually comfortable to use. I would also like some type of false magazine that stores the laser with the pistol, when not in use.

Reaction Tyme Target:

Reaction Tyme Target

The Reaction Tyme Target is an electronic, reactive target that is designed to be used with Laserlyte’s laser trainers. The target area is about three inches square. It has two different modes: Reaction and Normal. The Reaction mode will light the entire target red. You then have a couple of seconds to react, and shoot it, before it turns off. If you successfully hit the target, in the allotted time, it will blink and beep twice, letting you know you hit. The target will continue to light up red at random intervals of three to five seconds, until you switch the target off. In the Normal mode, the target stays unlit, until you hit it with the laser. Each time you hit it, it will light and blink, letting you know you’ve hit the target.

The target runs off of a three AAA batteries. It seems to be very sturdy. It also has a hole in the back, so you can hang it on a screw or nail.

The Reaction Tyme Kit, as a whole, is a very good training aid. I would prefer the option to order it with the Compact or Full-Size pistol. It would also be nice to have a second target included, so you could practice transitioning between each target, but they are offered for sale separately.

If you are in need of a laser training system, this is a very good option. You may even be able to call or email Laserlyte to get them to sell it to you with the full-size pistol. You could buy each component separately, but you save about $60 by buying the kit. I would recommend this kit to any shooter wishing to get some inexpensive trigger time in.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: “One-stop system of entry level laser training” - Laserlyte

Target Market: Pistol shooters looking for a safe, laser training option

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Universal laser unit
  • 9mm - .45 cal
  • Pistol is “Training” blue
  • Red laser
  • Reactive target

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: All of the items are only available in one color: blue pistol and red laser unit.

What others are saying?: “By practicing with a device that replicates DAO triggers in-general you are gaining/polishing trigger skills that are universal to all pistols with DAO triggers.” – Eric, AmmoLand

Price Point:

I need it now! Availability: You can get the Laserlyte Reaction Tyme Kit at Brownells and Amazon.

Our Rating:

+-Resetting trigger +-Universal Laser +-Reactive target +-Great customer service +-Full-size pistol fits well in my hand

--Compact pistol is a little uncomfortable --No storage compartment for the laser --Laser battery plug is prone coming out, when not in use --Laser should be offered in green, for outdoors use

Score: 8.080