Osborn TacticalTuck IWB holster

  So a few months ago I was looking for an IWB holster for a SCCY pistol. I was specifically looking for a hybrid style and ran across Osborn Holsters out of Texas. They pretty much only offer hybrid style holsters. Some of them even have a mag carrier built in with the holster. I chose the standard style without the extra mag carrier. Osborn sent it to me for review and it arrived quite quickly. 

   I have been wearing the TacticalTuck since it arrived about 2 1/2 months ago. The holster is dyed a redish brown color. Osborn holsters informed me that dyed holsters resist sweat better, but I notice now they offer a moisture barrier for an extra few bucks. It can also be had in natural or black leather. 

  The TacticalTuck has been one of the most comfortable holsters I have worn. It uses a very flexible leather backing with a kydex outer shell.  This has its pros and cons. On the positive, it is super comfortable. On the negative, it is hard to reholster because it pushes in toward the kydex, somewhat collapsing the pocket that the firearm goes in. As long as you pay attention and reholster slowly, it works out fine. The outer shell is molded for your firearm. And they have lots of models to choose from. Osborn does a nice job on the shell. My firearm fits good, there are no sharp corners and the molding around the gun is done nicely. The shell is also adjustable for tension with 4 screws that press on rubber washers. All the hardware screws use a smooth, chicago style, backing nut. 

   Osborn supplies their holsters with metal belt clips. These clips are some of the sturdiest clips I have used. The TacticalTuck has 2 belt clips to give a sturdy attachment of the holster. The clips have bumps on them that help them stay on around the belt. I had zero problems with the loops coming off. In fact, they clip on so well that it actually takes some effort to get them off of the belt. I like these clips, but every metal clipped holster I have used, causes my shirts to wear out. Especially around the rearward clip, when sitting in chairs alot, the clip rubs through the shirt.  

  Being that this is a hybrid style holster, it offers plenty of adjustments. Each belt loop has 4 adjusting holes. So by moving them up or down individually one can adjust ride height and/or cant of the holster. Each one of the holes has been riveted, so adjustment is easy and the holes should not wear out. Osborn also cuts the backing leather for the individual firearm. This is a nice touch, as other companies sometimes just use 3 or 4 different backings. 

  Osborn makes a nice holster. It has some good features and a few so-so ones. But if your in the market for a very comfortable hybrid holster. Give Osborn Holsters a look. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Hybrid style IWB holster

Target Market:

Concealed carriers

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Hybrid style (leather back, kydex shell) 
  • Firearm Model availability
  • Adjustable retention
  • Steel belt clips
  • Tuckable 
  • Adjustable ride height
  • Adjustable cant
  • Made In U.S.A.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Natural or Black

With mag carrier combo

What others are saying?:

 Good Holster

Mike @ Osbornholsters.com 4/5 stars

Overall it is a good holster. I like the adjustability of ride hight and the quality is great. My only complaint so far is the retention. I have tightened the screws as far as they will possibly go and the leather seams to relax the more I wear it loosing the retention. I have bottomed out the screws and not sure where to go from here.

 

Great Options for Rail-Mounted Lights

Z @ Osbornholsters.com 4/5 stars

Pros: * Overall solid build quality and features.* If you have a weapon-mounted light (and you should), there are more options available on this holster than with most other vendors.Cons: * Had to cut off some leather to allow my middle finger to get under the trigger guard on the draw. * Then had to trim a bit of kydex to allow my middle finger to index under the trigger guard on the draw without scraping it on kydex every time.

Getting a consistent and proper grip is paramount. The strong hand should ride high and tight into the backstrap/beavertail, and the middle finger should ride high and tight into the trigger guard. Google "maximizing the combat handgun grip" for more info. Just trim the leather and kydex a bit to allow this the moment you grip the pistol and you have a product that can't really improve much further.

Link to other reviews:

Four Guys Guns

Concealed Nation

Price point:

MSRP = $49.99

I need it now! Availability:

Osborn Holsters

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Comfortable
  • Adjustable retention
  • Adjustable cant
  • Adjustable ride height
  • Quality molding
  • Tuckable

Cons:

  • Collapsible holster mouth 
  • Metal clips

Score: 7.5 Good

 

Chad's Favorite Link: The 22 Connection

 

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

ODIN Works ATLAS 5 Compensator

   Odin Works has been making quality AR parts for many years. The new ATLAS compensator is no different. Odin works was kind enough to send me the ATLAS 5 for review, they also sent me an O2 light handguard that I reviewed earlier. 

  I was curious about the ATLAS after we had talked about it on episode 136 of the Gun & Gear Review Podcast. After receiving the ATLAS 5, I immediately took it apart into it's 3 sections. Basically you have an inner compensator, that would probably work by itself, an outer shell, and a nut to hold it all together. The inner comp is made from 416 stainless steel and the outer comp shell is made from titanium. 

  Now onto installation of the ATLAS. Assuming that you have already taken off your old muzzle device. All you need to do is screw on the inner muzzle body on and tighten it with a 7/8" wrench. No crush washers or shims needed. Then slide the outer shell over the body with the index mark pointed up. Now tighten the nut on, also with a 7/8" wrench. Then there are 3 set screws, on the end of the nut, that you tighten down with the supplied wrench. These help keep everything locked in place. After you have adjusted the brake like you want, I would put some threadlocker on them. To time the brake, loosen the set screws and the nut, then turn the outer shell slightly toward the recoil impulse, and tighten it down again. So if the muzzle jumps slight up and right, turn the shell right. One can also drill the top hole in the Atlas shell out larger if timing it doesn't do enough for you. But go slow, you don't want to go too far.  I didn't like how I had to use a 7/8" wrench. The standard is a 3/4" and it would have been nice to be able to use a standard AR tool for the adjustments. 

  How does it work? Well, it works pretty good. It is not the best that I have used, but it is far from the worst. It does reduce muzzle rise, and can be drilled out for your particular load. It reduces the felt recoil down alot. It seemed to work better on my 16" then my 11.5". But it still worked okay on the shorty. It resides on the shorty for now. The reason, because once it it timed for a particular rifle, it doesn't need anything else. So I can just unscrew it, screw the suppressor on, and vise-versa. 

  The ATLAS 5 comp is really a trade off. On one side, it is easily adjusted, but on the other side, it doesn't work quite as well as some other comps. But with all that said, it is really nice for someone that removes their comp alot and still wants something that actually works as a comp. Go check out Odin Works, even if your not in the market for a comp, they probably have something you want. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Adjustable rifle compensator that does not use crush washers or shims for timing

Target Market:

AR-15 users who want a compensator that can be adjusted (timed) easily

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 3-piece design

  • Stainless steel and Titanium sleeve

  • 1/2-28 Threads

  • 2.56" long

  • 1" Diameter

  • Weighs 4.1 ounces

  • Available in 7.62 also

  • Made in USA

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Atlas 7 (7.62/.30 Cal)

What others are saying?:

Chris @ OdinWorks: 5/5 stars

Easy install works awesome

Easy peasy install took about 2 minutes on my Del-Ton AR15. At the range was truly awesome. Was back on target so fast due to so much less recoil I was shocked. I was slightly high right, made an adjustment to the break not my scope and boom dead on sub MOA at 100 yards, I had not done that before with this rifle. 

 

Eric @ JoeBobOutfitters: 4/5 stars

Excellent Tunable Flash Hider

The Odin Atlas was incredibly easy to install and doesn't require a crush washer which is a big plus. As long as it is tight, it doesn't really matter what configuration the holes line up like.
Tightening down the cap with the three screws secures it perfectly and the outer sheath around the main body really does help tune your rifle from left and right movements. 
It does a great just of reducing flash as well. Overall, I find this flash hider/compensator to be outstanding.

Link to other reviews:

Sootch00 @ Full30

Price point:

(MSRP versus actual retail)

MSRP = $99 @ Odin Works

Retail = $94.05 @ Brownells

I need it now! Availability:

Odin Works or Brownells

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Easily Adjustable

  • No Crush Washer or Shims needed

  • Good at keeping muzzle on target

  • Reduces Recoil

Cons:

  • Doesn't use standard 3/4" wrench 

  • Loud (but it is a compensator) 

  • Didn't come with instructions. Must go to Odin works faq

Score: 7.5 Good

 

 

Chad's Favorite Link: Veterans Forward Operating Base (VFOB)

 

Amend2 AR-15 Magazine

   Amend2 is a new company that has entered into the AR-15 magazine market. Having another option in the AR magazine market is always a good thing. Amend2 offers mainly standard capacity magazines of 30 rounds in 5.56/.223, but also lists a 20 round option. I was sent the 30 round black ones for review. 

  I was pretty excited to try these mags out. And since I was going to a big shoot, the timing was perfect. When the mags first arrived, I immediately checked them to see if they would drop free. All of the ones they sent me, hit the floor when the mag release was pressed. This was even in a rifle that will hang up on some other magazines. Of course,  the Amend2 mags also locked back the slide, as expected. One thing I noticed is that the magazines seemed heavier than both my mil-spec and P-mags, but they actually weigh really close to the P-mags. Don't get discouraged by this, because they are made from a tough polymer. I did toss one across the road and it had only very minor scratches. Then I drove over it, both loaded with empty cases and unloaded completely. I really just wanted to see if it would crack, but it didn't. The baseplate on the mag is slightly larger than some and has a checkerboard texture on the bottom. This is a good thing if you drop your mags a lot on hard surfaces. It also helps when retrieving them from a pouch. As with essentially all good magazines, they have anti-tilt followers and stainless steel springs. 

  You probably really want to know how they function? Okay. Two of the magazines were run in full auto AR's, all day. I don't have an actual round count, but it was over 1000 rounds per magazine, probably more like 2000 each. One magazine ran flawless with no problems at all. The other one had 1 failure to feed. I would say these magazines are good to go for anything that you would want to use them in. I have also been using these magazines when I need to use an AR mag, with no problems. I have also ran them suppressed, in an SBR. 

 Currently,  Amend2 offers the magazines with some options. They come in black, OD green, and tan. The anti-tilt follower and base pad insert are red. According to their website, other magazine colors are also available: Zombie green, Ghost white, Dark earth, and Desert tan. But it is a little confusing, I don't know if they mean magazine body color, or magazine follower color. While surfing Amend2's Instagram, I noticed that they can also do custom nameplates for dealers, or maybe anyone if you purchase enough of them. It appears that "Amend2" on the mag body is replaced with "your company logo/name". 

  I have been quite impressed with these magazines. Amend2 has done a good job with the durability and function. The price is on par with other 30 round magazines. So, if you are looking for some more magazines, and aren't we all, give the Amend2 mags a try. 

   

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

AR-15 30 round polymer magazine

Target Market:

AR-15 owners who can own 30 round magazines 

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product): 

  • Polymer construction

  • Anti-tilt follower

  • Stainless Steel spring

  • Textured body and floorplate

  • 30 round capacity

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

OD Green, Tan, and maybe more

What others are saying?:

Jay @ Brownells: 4/5 stars

GOOD MAGS, GREAT PRICE

I bought a 10 pack of these as the price is awesome. I was about to buy 10 aluminum mags from another site, and just so happened to check brownells for comparison. I stumbled across these and decided to give them a try after watching some youtube reviews. At first, these did not fit in my AR, but my rifle has a very large broached mag well. After debating whether to send them back for a refund and lose out on some money, I decided to trim some of the material on one mag that was contacting my AR and then they slid right in and out like they should have. It took about 5 seconds a side with a dremel and a sanding wheel per side and it solved the issue. These do not fit 100% of the AR's out there, so keep that in mind. That is the only reason i docked a star. Another issue arose that they would not stay seated in my AR, compared to PMAG's and Mission First Tactical mags. Frustrating to say the least, so what did I do? I bought another complete lower (HAHA!) to compare. As it turns out, the mag release/catch spring was completely shot, so after replacing that spring, they remained in the rifle. I test fitted in the new AR lower and they were tight fitting unlike in the other AR where there was some wiggle room and slid right out. Great construction, the grip and texture of these mags is unique and aids in handling.

Tim L. @ Brownells: 4/5 stars

DECENT NO FRILLS POLYMER AR-15 MAGAZINE

For the price, it's a good magazine. Feels solid right out of the package, however, I tried in both of my AR's and the magazines would not drop free from the gun. Other than that, they claim to feature no-tool disassembly, however, depressing the "2" on the bottom far enough to disassemble the magazine surely requires pressing down with something other than fingers (aka a tool). But a 5.56 bullet tip will do the trick. I'll keep them in the range bag for plinking, but I will stick with the tried and true PMags and HexMags for training, competition, and personal defense.

Link to other reviews:

Ghostginthree on YouTube

Price point:

MSRP = $14.95

Retail = $14.99 @ Pershingarmory.com

I need it now! Availability:

Pershing Armory, Amend2, and Brownells 

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Durable

  • Stainless Steel spring

  • Anti-tilt follower

  • Made in U.S.A.

  • Custom Name Plates

Cons:

  • Rough looking

Score: 8.0 Great

 

Chad's Favorite link: Axelson Tactical

 

 

 

 

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

Camelbak Mil Tac M.U.L.E.

Before summer comes to an end, I wanted to review the hydration pack I've been using on my excursions outdoors. CamelBak has been a heavyweight in the hydration gear sector, and is well known in the hiking, camping, hunting, and tactical industries. They've come along away in their history, with founder Michael Eidson using an IV bag filled with water slung in a tube sock to rehydrate in an extremely demanding bike race in Texas. 

I picked up the CamelBak Mil Tac M.U.L.E.  because it looked just the right size for biking, hiking, day hunting, and big events (NRA Show, SHOT SHOW, etc). CamelBak describes this hydration pack as ideal for shorter adventures, with enough liquid capacity and features to get the job done. Not only is it pretty tactical with its laser-cut MOLLE webbing and loop panels for morale patches (shameless plug for Patriot Patch Co. patches here) but it utilizes the awesome Antidote bladder system with a 3 liter/100oz capacity and QD connections. 

Starting with the pack itself, its made of 500D Ripstop Cordura fabric, which is a good balance between lightweight and durability. The shoulder harness features 7mm EVA foam and a 420D high-density nylon backside, and what Camelbak calls "the Air Director" back panel that uses a 3mm closed-cell PE foam that's designed to: you guessed it, increase air ventilation. The front of the pack has upper and lower zippered compartments, with the lower pouch outfitted with organizational pockets for your pleasure. The main large compartment houses the Antidote bladder, with three port positions for routing the drinking tube upward behind the wearer's neck, or under either left or right arm.

The Antidote reservoir has a 100oz / 3 liter capacity, and is embossed with increments to help monitor consumption, or just measure out supplemental tablets. The nicest feature I enjoyed was the wide-mouth opening with a plastic handle. Conventional bladders are really awkward to fill without spilling everywhere, but the collar and handle make it easy to fill up with only one hand. The Antidote's lid seals with a quarter turn of the tethered cap. The whole reservoir is suspended inside the M.U.L.E via a nylon loop you simply hook into with the plastic collar. Camelbak's "Big Bite Valve" makes it easy to take a sip on the go, and the insulated PureFlow tube keeps water from heating up or freezing depending on the environment. 

The Antidote's more notable feature is the Quick Link HydroLock and disconnect. This makes it easy to control the flow of the liquid or shut it off entirely. The quick disconnect function lets you swap out valves, as well as clean/maintain the reservoir easier, and even attach an inline filter that works while you sip, instead of filtering or boiling water first and then filling the reservoir.

The majority of the time I've used the M.U.L.E was mountain biking in the warm summer months of June-August. I found the shoulder straps aren't the most comfortable... even though they are wide, they are quite stiff and I had to purposely stress the padded foam to break it in alittle bit more for comfort. I ran the drinking tube up thru the top port and down the right shoulder strap, threading it through the straps and D ring and up thru the female M buckle strap so the valve is always pointing up towards my face. This makes it easy for one-handed use, and keeps the valve up and away from snagging on vegetation or getting caught in the bike.

Overall I love this hydration back, and the only things keeping it from a perfect score are the rigid, subpar shoulder straps and the steep price point compared to other offbrand hydration packs. It's safe to say though, that if I'm going out on a hike or logging miles on the bike, the M.U.L.E's got my back.

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: The CamelBak Mil Tac M.U.L.E. Hydration Pack is ideal for shorter adventures, with the capacity and features to keep you hydrated and comfortable as you get the job done.

Target Market:  Hikers, Campers, Hunters, Bicyclists

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 500D Rip-Stop Cordura Fabric front panel, gusset and shoulder harness (front side)
  • 420D High Density nylon on shoulder harness (back side)
  • 7mm EVA foam padding in shoulder harness
  • 3mm closed cell PE foam padding on back panel and inside hydration compartment
  • Hydration Capacity: 100 oz / 3L
  • Mil Spec Antidote 100oz / 3 liter Hydration Bladder
  • Total Capacity: 8L (488 cu in) + 3L Reservoir
  • Total Weight: 1.9 lbs / .88 kg (pack only)
  • Dimensions: 17.5 in x 8.5 in x 7.9 in (44 cm x 22 cm x 20 cm)
  • Low Profile composite laser cut MOLLE webbing
  • Backed by CamelBak Got your Bak Lifetime guarantee

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

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"This pack is amazing. Small enough on the outside to not get in the way yet surprisingly big on the inside. The laser cut molles are superb and extremely low profile. The reservoir works perfectly and is a breeze to operate. Three things would make it absolutely perfect. 1- Top D-ring attachment points are a must! It's small enough to work perfectly attached to a plate carrier. 2- The shoulder straps would benefit immensely from a little extra padding, especially with the reservoir and pack fully loaded. Don't let the small size fool you. 3- The bottom of the pack needs to be of thicker fabric or have some sort of extra protection. It looks like it might have a hard time being put on the ground on rough terrain. I have yet to see how it performs though. Highly recommended and the Multicam version looks great!" - Customer Review

"Great little pack for adventuring and day trips. Pros:

  • Detachable hip straps. I am so happy about this as I rarely used them on my old pack and just cut them off. These are velcro and you can take them off when not in use. Huge plus for me. 
  • Lots of different storage options in the lower, larger compartment. Zippered mesh pocket, smaller pockets for pens, etc. and event a spot for a 30rnd magazine. I thought that was cool. 
  • Bladder, tube and bite piece are top notch and its really nice to have a cover so the mouthpiece doesn't get dirty/you don't have to worry about it
  • Excess shoulder strap can be rolled up and velcroed just under the shoulder pads so it doesn't fly around.

Cons:

  • My older Camelbak had a little C clip of sorts that you could put the excess hose in to that held it to the shoulder strap. It was nice so the hose didn't flop around, but this pack does not have it.
  • No padding in the straps. They are sturdy and well made, but will need some heavy use before they are truly comfortable
  • The "molle" styled webbing on the outside is not the right width to accommodate the molle accessories that I have tried. A bit of a bummer.

Ultimately a well made pack that I look forward to using for years." Amazon Review

PRICE POINT:

  • MSRP: $166.50
  • Retail: $114.93 @ Amazon

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website or Amazon

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Thick width shoulder straps prevent neck chaffing
  • Insulated drinking tube
  • 3 options for running drinking tube out of bag
  • low-profile laser-cut MOLLE webbing for adding more pouches

Cons:

  • Padding in shoulder straps is rigid and uncomfortable
  • Velcro mangement of excess straps would have been a nice feature

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

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Stratus Support System

While I was making my way through the sea of vendors at the 2016 NRA Show in Louisville, I came across a unique product that made me stop and take notice. While not the sexiest or most tactical wear at the event, it was something I instantly knew I needed in my kit.

As a hunter, I've become all too aware how heavy a standard rifle or shotgun gets during an all-day hunt. The average scoped deer rifle weights between 5-7 pounds... or if you're like me, you built a heavy hitting accurate rifle with nice glass that ended up north of 13 pounds. Shotguns are just as guilty, especially magnum sized receivers that were built to survive the duckpocolypse. Hauling around a heavy long gun for more than a few hours will start to fatigue even the strongest of hunters, and that fatigue just may ruin an offhand shot and a ruined hunt.

This patch double stitched to the cuff is what interlocks with the belt unit. It seems sturdy enough for long outings.

The sling is a hunter's best friend in the field, because is not only puts the weight on your shoulder, but frees up for hands for glassing the hills with binoculars, reading the GPS, rehydrating, etc. The bad thing about slings, is that burden of weight on your shoulder will still cause fatigue at some point, prompting the hunter to swap shoulders or carry the gun by hand again, until the cycle of fatigue starts again. As someone who actively hunts several species a year (on foot, rarely in a stand or blind) I've often contemplated the issue, thinking to myself "Man, I need to buy a lighter gun!" 

The cuff isn't quite wide enough to work on a Bell & Carlson type fiberglass stock.

That's exactly why the Stratus Support System caught my eye. It is a pretty simple two piece rig with a soft neoprene cuff that wraps around your long gun's stock, and a hard plastic support that you slide your belt through. The cuff has a sewn on raised plastic disc that acts like a joint when inserted into the slot in the belt unit. The result is an anchor point on your hip that shares the payload when the firearm is slung over your shoulder.

When attached to the belt, the Stratus can pivot freely 360 degrees.

Most hunters will immediately wonder if it slows down your reaction time when that big nasty buck walks out in front of you, and you only have a few precious seconds to shoulder your rifle and drill the vitals before it disappears into the wilderness again. Believe me, it was my first question too. The belt unit has a retention clip with a ridge to help secure the cuff's disc, but is easy to overcome with a short simple upward motion... which you would perform anyway to lift the sling off your shoulder stealthily as to not spook your quarry. To me the optimal technique for releasing the joint is if you unsling the rifle from your shoulder, let it pivot forward while still clipped to your hip, lower the muzzle some and then lift up. This is easy to do with one hand, so you could use your rangefinder or binos with your support hand.

The cuff fit perfectly on one of my other heavy rifles, the Mosin Nagant 91/30.

Wing shooters, I haven't forgotten about you! You remember that awkward walk to and from the truck, boat, and blind while you are trying to carry your decoys, ammo, chairs, and your shotgun, as quick as possible because that sun is rising fast and the ducks are coming in hot? Or the hours you spend marching through the wheat fields with your dog, anxiously waiting for that pheasant to take flight? No matter the terrain, I've found the Stratus Support comes in handy when you are juggling your gun and gear around, while trying to maintain stamina and stay alert.

The rubber interior prevents the cuff from slipping around on the stock

Depending on how tall you are and if your standing in water or tall vegetation, you could even lower your firearm muzzle down along your leg while you blow on your calls, or give instruction to your dog trying to retrieve that stubborn duck. If you are really ambitious, you could use the Stratus to carry a secondary gun on your other shoulder/hip, while your are using your primary weapon. If you've ever hunted with a muzzleloader, having two smoke-poles ready to go is worth more than having only one and a pocket full of bullets!

In a way the Stratus Support is like a holster for your rifle, shotgun or muzzleloader, but designed for practicality and quick access so you don't miss any golden opportunities. I really like how it can work on almost any gun in my collection, and gives some of my heavier rifles a chance to come out of the truck and accompany me on the stalk.

NOTE: Yes, I did ask SSS about more compatibility with other platforms. They are working an a tactical rig for AR-15s, and are experimenting with archery productss. Stay tuned! 

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: Stratus Support Systems solves the age old problem of field fatigue incurred through carry of bare or slinged rifles and shotguns.

Target Market:  Hunters (Shotgun, Rifle, or Muzzleloaders), Long Range Shooters

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Easy to use
  • Reduces fatigue by distributing an adjustable amount of weight off of the shoulders and back to the waist
  • Allows quick access / use of firearm
  • Does bot interfere with shooting
  • Non-damaging neoprene cuff fits most firearm stocks
  • Inside cuff is non-slip
  • Belt support unit goes on/off easy and fits wide belts
  • Ambidextrous
  • Designed by hunters

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Flat Black only

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"Everybody needs a little support now and then. Stratus support systems has put together a system for your favorite fixed stock rifles that make hunting and target practice less painful. Ounces equal pounds and pounds equal pain. This system redistributes most of the weight from your neck, shoulders, and back to your belt." ilikegunz.com review

PRICE POINT:

  • MSRP: $24.95

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Secondary anchor point makes a huge difference when hunting all day
  • Disabled hunters can benefit from the redistributed weight
  • Portion of sales will be contributed to Wounded Warriors
  • Inside of cuff has non-slip texture so it stays put on your stock
  • Belt unit was wide loops for any belt width

Cons:

  • Cuff's wings are almost not big enough for modern stocks with large cheek combs
  • Disc joint is plastic, and while sturdy so far in testing I would be more confident in a metallic solution.
  • Since the cuff takes up approximately 4" of your stock and may interfere with ammunition carrying products, it would have been a nice addition if this had some ammo loops, or a velcro system to swap between shotshells or rifle catridges

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

5.11 Tactical RUSH 72 Backpack

A real quality tactical backpack is more than just MOLLE loops and velcro panels

I finally broke down and bought a new tactical backpack this year, and I think I might have over done it - if thats possible. The 5.11 RUSH backpacks come in 3 different sizes, and are based on the hypothetical duration of your activity, be it recreational or uber tactical operational. So in hours, they start with the smaller RUSH12, then the slightly bigger RUSH24, and the largest RUSH72.  I was more interested in using the pack as luggage, to hold enough clothes, amenities and gear for any 3 day event. I hate checking bags or overpacking multiple bags, so the idea of fitting everything I need and nothing I don't into one backpack really appealed to me.

The shoulder straps spread the load well, and are padded with a breathable layer for all day comfort in the hot sun or freezing cold.

So far I've used the RUSH72 on 3 big trips this year, two of which were across the country and required both air travel and a long road trip in a cramped vehicle with none other than Mr. FRN president Jacob Challand himself.  I've also taken it camping a few times, mostly just southeast of Mt. Rainier, WA. It's a decent pack for sure, but its not without it's downsides. Really it depends on the user and what they are looking to do with it.

The padding and support structure designed in the back of the Rush 72 is well designed.

On the outside, the RUSH72 is beefy and seems strong enough to take a beating. The material is 1000D nylon, and is supposed to be water repellent. Take note, 'repellent' does not equal waterproof, and if your caught in a summer squall you will get soaked and need to air everything out. Most high end rucksacks incorporate a cover to lash over your bag so the rain just beads off onto the ground, so a small plastic sheet or tarp may come in hand if you live somewhere wet, like I do in the Pacific Northwest. 5.11 did incorporate 'rain-flies' that overlap the zippers of the main, admin, and side pockets which do keep rain from dripping in, as long as the back and yourself stay upright.

The MOLLE loops on the shoulder pads allow for customization of pouches that can be accessed on the go while strapped into the RUSH. I used this radio pouch to hold my cell phone.

The front accessory pocket, admin panel, side pockets and hip panels have MOLLE webbing for the addition of as many magazine, admin, or medic pouches you desire, as well as two velcro spots for adding your favorite Patriot Patch Co. morale patches. The zippers are high quality throughout, I understand they're made by YKK which are high end end Japanese zipper companies. There are stall narrow pockets on each side, as well as a fleece-lined sunglass pocket right at the top, near a grab handle incase you need to drag the bag around or carry it one handed. There is also a hydration pocket thats well concealed under the yoke of the straps.

At the top there is a fleece lined pouch designated for sunglasses... I don't have Oakleys but it's a perfect spot for my reading glasses.

The shoulder straps and back support can be the saving grace or damning sin of a backpack, especially one that can yield so much gear. Fortunately 5.11 is well aware of this, since they incorporate a decent lumbar support on the back panel, and an improved yoke with wider and thicker shoulder straps. The hip panels are padded as well, and the sternum strap and waist belt are easy to adjust and buckle.  Lastly, the dual compression straps to help tame the added bulk when the interior is full... and trust me, there's alot of room to fill!

The RUSH has a well-stitched robust carry handle that helps with throwing the bag in a trunk or in overhead compartments when flying.

On the inside, the RUSH72 definitely has ample space for a lot of gear, which almost leaves the MOLLE webbing on the outside unnecessary (but its as tactical, so MOLLE is absolutely mandatory.) The main compartment has three zippered mesh pouches of varying sizes, one zippered nylon pouch, and one open pouch in the very bottom with a drawstring closure. I mostly roll up my shirts and pants and stack them vertically in the bottom pouch, putting sundries like socks and boxers in the mesh pouches, and valuables like chargers, watches, etc in the nylon pouch since it zips shut and almost disappears in the bottom. After packing 3 days worth of clothes, there's still enough room for a medium jacket inside.

The backing is supported by a rigid plate. Its a great place to stow flat documents or maps.

The admin organizer compartment is a non-removal panel that forms a large open pouch between the main bag, which is well-suited for stuffing a rain jacket or sweatcoat into when the weather changes. The bottom corners of this void are closed with mesh netting, which in my experience is the first thing to fail after hard use. I wouldn't stow anything sharp there, stick to fabric and other soft items. The compression straps on either side help the synch it tight and keep the main compartment's contents from bulging the bag too much. 

Inside the admin compartment's rear panel are several pockets, starting with a zippered mesh pouch, then a zippered nylon pouch, open pouch, then some pencil loops and expanding pockets. The forward panel has two deep pouches that would fit a 30rd mag each, with another mesh pencil pouch just above. I usually keep electronic devices, cords, and writing utensils in here, as well as a map or a magazine for down time. The left and right side compartments of the RUSH72 are identical, both have two smaller pockets and ample room for a narrow plastic water bottle or other similarly sized item.

The RUSH 72 is a heavy pack when empty, but solidly built to withstand serious payloads. You can't expect to carry 80+ lbs of gear in a cheap lightweight pack... quality construction and materials = added weight.

5.11 really likes to hype this bag up as "the best bug out backpack in the world, perfect for recreational excursions or tactical deployments." While I haven't taken it up to the hills for a run-and-gun, stuffed to the gills with ammo and mags, I don't see myself ever using it that way. If its really time to bug out, running around with this bag loaded first aid, munitions and food will really slow you down. Plus it just screams "HEY, IV'E GOT LOADS OF GOODIES, COME SHOOT ME AND STEAL IT." It is supposedly designed by special operations combat veteran, Kyle Lamb and aggressively field tested by his company Viking Tactics (VTAC) but for me, I'm going to continue using it to ferry traveling and camping gear and keep the high speed low drag stuff for more inconspicuous bags.

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: The RUSH72™ is engineered to be a full featured 72 hour bag that provides ample space for gear and accessories while remaining rugged and reliable enough for extended excursions or tactical deployments. 

Target Market:  Hikers, Campers, Travelers, Hunters, OPERATORS OPERATING IN OPERATIONS

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Built from high strength, water-repellant 1000D nylon

  • Dual-zippered front and main compartments with molded grip pulls

  • Multiple integrated organization pockets

  • Admin organization pocket to store maps, pens, and documents

  • Fleece-lined sunglass pocket

  • Internal hydration compartment with hangers and toggles

  • Cinching waist strap and dual compression straps

  • Adjustable dual density closed-cell foam shoulder straps

  • Padded Back and hip pads

  • 23” H x 13.5” L x 8.5” D main compartment

  • 15.5” x 11.5” x 2” front pocket

  • 16.5” x 6” x 1.75” left and right side pockets

  • 21” x 13.5” hydration pocket

  • 3342 cubic inch / 55 liter total capacity

  • Contour yoke system with grab and go handle

  • Rugged, self-healing YKK® zipper hardware

  • Integrated drainage grommet

  • Nametag and square patch holders

  • MOLLE webbing all over

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black, "Double Tap," Flat Dark Earth, Multicam, Sandstone, Storm (Gray), TAC OD (Green)

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"So I have waited to put a review up so I could test it throughly. Overall it's a good bag tons of storage and organization pockets, you can easily load this bag down. The shoulder and hip straps work well, the hip straps ride a little to high on my frame I'm 6'2, but the bag distributed the weight nicely. I have used this bag for a year and a half carrying roughly 30-50 pounds of gear at any given time witch is heavy for this type of bag. But it hasn't shown any sort of problems doing so. I only have a few complaints some are nit picky but I'm trying to leave the most honest review. The weight of this bag is too heavy for this type of bag it's held up great but at the cost of how heavy this bag is. The pockets on the side of the bag work great but intrude on the man cargo area of the bag this mean you have to organize this bag carefully if you want to utilize all of the storage areas of the bag. The smaller outer pockets on the front of the bag where you can store your mags is great but the straps that create the pocket between the two work but create such a big gap when weight is added I had stopped trying to use that space all together (I consistently had stuff fall out of the bag), I think it's due to the height of the mesh on the sides is too small if they had increased mesh by an inch or two i think it would make this area a lot more useful. It's not bad for putting a single flat folding item into it but that's about it. Next the glasses pocket up top is great if you don't run a hydration system in the bag as the hose runs into that pocket and pushes into anything inside the pocket deal breaker no but it can be an issue. The one thing I wished this bag has would be tent straps on the bottomed of the bag and maybe a integrated pack cover. Overall 7.5 out of ten i can over look the weight if everything worked perfectly but you have to be very careful how you pack this up if you don't you will loose valuable space and if that's not a problem you could buy a smaller bag." - Customer Review, Kyle

PRICE POINT:

  • Retail: $169.99
  • $249.99 multicam

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Website or Amazon

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Thick shoulder straps and wide yolk make long durations of carry comfortable
  • Every pocket has organization / pouches
  • MOLLE webbing on straps, hip panels, side pouches, accessory and admin pouches
  • Fits in overhead compartment on commercial aircraft

Cons:

  • Even empty the Rush72 is HEAVY!
  • No full length rain cover, rain flys only repel water

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

ODIN Works O2 Lite KeyMod Handrail

  Back in Episode 136 of the Podcast, we discussed the Odin Works O2 Lite handrail. I was intrigued by it, so I contacted Odin Works to get one in for review. They responded quickly and sent me a 12.5" KeyMod O2 Lite rail. Odin Works makes a vast assortment of AR related products for you to choose from.

  The first thing I noticed about the O2 Lite handrail is how lightweight it really is. When I took it out of the box, it was really noticeable. It weighs in at 8.1 ounces complete with the barrel nut system. Odin did a really nice job of reducing the weight by putting in tons of scallop cuts on the forend. These cuts are kind of hex shaped, with some of them being elongated. I would guess the name "O2" comes from the cut outs looking like an Oxygen molecular drawing. And, of course, it free floats the barrel. If one were to hit the edge of one of these cutouts, you might be able to bend it down. It wouldn't bend far enough to cause any functionality problems, just cosmetic ones.

  Now I'll get on to some of the technical specs. The O2 rail is made from 6005-T6 aluminum that is then anodized black. Since they sent me the 12.5" rail, that is how long it is. It has an outside diameter of 1.8" wide and 2.16" high. The reason for it being taller is because it has a small rail section built into the top of the handrail, but only at the front and back. So I would call it a hybrid rail. The top, between the 2 rail sections, does not have any way to mount a rail section between the front and back rails. The inside diameter comes in at 1.6", so plenty of room. Along with the O2 having KeyMod slots along the 3,6, and 9 O'clock positions (MLok is an option also), there are QD attachment points, at the front and rear, at 3 and 9 O'clock. A 5 slot KeyMod picatinny rail also comes with the forend. It is not mounted, so one can use it as necessary. Of course, any Keymod accessory should work also.

  Mounting the handguard is really pretty easy. If you know anything about removing AR barrels, you shouldn't have any problems. Basically, remove the old barrel nut, gas tube, and gas block. Then, screw on Odin's forend adapter. align gas tube hole, insert gas tube alignment pin (supplied), put Vibra-Tite (reusable threadlocker) on barrel nut threads, screw on barrel nut, and tighten to 40-50 ft-lbs with a 1-1/4" crowfoot wrench. Odin Works sells a crowfoot wrench, I would recommend getting one with your order. Reinstall the gas tube and gas block. Slide on O2 Lite handrail, tighten on with 6 screws and supplied allen wrench. You now can go put some rounds down range.

  Immediately after installing the O2 Lite forend, I could tell a weight difference. I think this is probably my new favorite handguard. It is comfortable to hold on to. The looks are fantastic. It is really light. And it comes in various lengths. Odin Works did a fine job creating this piece of engineering! If you are looking for anything AR related, go visit Odin Works, I doubt you will be disappointed.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Lightweight KeyMod FreeFloat handguard for AR 15 rifles

Target Market:

Those wanting a very light handguard

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Free Floats barrel

  • 12.5" long

  • Anodized aluminum

  • 8.1 ounces complete

  • 1.6" Inside Diameter

  • 1.8" Wide

  • 2.16" High

  • Built in QD attachment points

  • KeyMod attachment points at 3,6, & 9 O'Clock positions

  • Short built in rails at front and rear

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

9.5", 15.5", and available in MLok also.

What others are saying?:

Ken on Odinworks.com: 5/5 stars

These are a GREAT product. I use to use the Carbon Fiber ones I could get but after getting this one I am going to use them on all by rifles from now on. They feel great and the COOL fact is good also. All that aside they function well and are very lite which make them perfect for a carry rifle especially for hog hunting or any hunting for that matter. Great product you all have.  Thanks and thanks for your fast shipping too.

Anonymous on Odinworks.com: 5/5 stars

This rail is incredible. The rail itself is simply too light to believe. The thin cardboard packaging weighs more than the rail itself. Installation was a snap and everything went together perfectly.

Link to other reviews:

None found on the Googles

Price point:

MSRP = $200

Retail = $199.99 @ BMC-Tactical

I need it now! Availability:

Odin Works

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Super Light

  • Easy Installation

  • QD points

  • Good Looking

  • Top Rail Sections

  • Free Float

  • Includes Allen Wrench

  • Includes gas tube alignment pin

  • Made in U.S.A.

Cons:

  • Only Available in Black

  • Easily damaged cut outs (If hit just right)

  • No mention of needing a semi special wrench for the barrel nut (My AR armorers tool didn't work)

Score: 8.50 Great

 

Chad's Favorite Link: Veterans FOB

Lucid L7 1-6x24 Rifle Scope

   Now that the review of the Lucid L5 4-16x44 is done. It is time to move on to the L7 1-6x24. The L7 is Lucid's quick adjustable, True 1x to 6x power optic. Lucid was kind enough to send me the L7 when they sent me the L5. 

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  Lucid's new L7 optic comes with some pretty nice features. First up, it has a one piece 30mm tube that allows plenty of light through the 24mm objective lens. Second up, the variable power adjusts from a true 1x to a usable 6x. The L7 also comes supplied with an optional throw lever to adjust zoom. If you opt for the throw lever, just install it with the supplied allen wrench. The L7 uses Lucid's P7 reticle set on the second focal plane. At 1x, one can use the scope as a pseudo red dot. Except the L7 has an illuminated blue inner reticle, yes Blue. I found the blue to be an excellent choice. I was able to pick the reticle up on all different color backgrounds. When it's not illuminated, you will see the full MOA etched reticle, so even if you happen to have a blue target, it will still be noticeable. The marks on the reticle are spaced at 8 moa apart. If using on a 5.56/.223, they really don't allow for bullet drop. But if using something big and slow, like the 300blk subsonic, they work quite well.  The throw between 1x and 6x is about 180 degrees. The MOA reticle is calibrated to the 6x magnification setting. 

Reticle Illumination

208gr .300Blk. 50 yd zero at 6x

Standard 5.56 55gr. 50yd zero at 6x

  Now, my favorite thing about Lucid scopes is the adjustment knobs. To adjust the reticle up/down or left/right, one must first pull up on the adjustment knob. Then turn it, and push it back down. This locks the turret from moving. The turrets have a very nice tactile click to them. On the L7, each click is 0.5 or 1/2 MOA. To set the turrets to zero, just loosen the screw with the supplied allen wrench, pull up even farther, turn to zero, push back down, and tighten the screw. Next to the turrets, on the left side, is the brightness knob. It also holds the CR2032 battery. There are 11 brightness adjustments. I would have liked the reticle to be brighter,  because in daylight it is hard to see the illumination.  

  I mounted the Lucid L7 1-6x on a 16" AR. Which is really what the L7 was primarily designed for. The first thing I noticed was how clear the optic was. I have seen 1-4x optics in the same price range that aren't this clear! The scope also comes with flip covers. A nice touch, but the covers are pretty flimsy. 

  Lucid has done a reasonably good job with the L7 1-6x24. It is very clear, has Lucid's excellent knobs, has blue illumination, and is a true 1x. They only thing I would change, is the MOA hash marks. Maybe make them 2 or 4 MOA apart to better work with the 5.56/.223 cartridge. Give Lucid Optics a look, they may have something worth sighting through. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quick adjust 1-6 power optic with blue center illumination 

Target Market:

3-gunners, hunters, Law enforcement, or anyone wanting a quick adjustable low power optic. 

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • True 1-6 power
  • 30mm tube
  • 10.75" long
  • 20.4 ounces
  • Waterproof  
  • Fogproof
  • Shockproof up to .458 SOCOM 
  • Multi coated optics
  • Illuminated P7 etched reticle
  • 1/2 moa adjustments
  • Lockable turrets  
  • 60 moa adjustment range (Each side of center)
  • Comes with Flip caps
  • Lifetime Warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

None available 

What others are saying?:

Kurt at Optics Planet. 5/5 stars

Outstanding Optic

I wanted a 1-6x optic that wouldn't break the bank but also wouldn't be something that I knew was "cheap". A friend suggested the L7 and even after reviewing the website I still had some questions. A quick call to Lucid...and a chat with the president of the company, answered them. When the optic arrived, I was glad to see that it felt solid and rugged and wasn't something that would fall apart if it got a few dings and scratches. The glass is clear and the reticle is crisp. A word about the reticle...I like how the various steps on the "ladder" are a fixed distance so not only does it operate as a BDC, it also will function as an ersatz range finder.

Link to other reviews:

Major Pandemic

Price point:

MSRP = $449 at Lucid

Retail = $389 at Amazon

I need it now! Availability:

Lucid, Amazon, or Optics planet

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Blue Illuminated Reticle
  • Clear Glass
  • Good Light Transmission
  • Turret Locks
  • Reset to Zero Turrets
  • Target Turrets
  • Tactile adjustment clicks
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Included Throw Lever

Cons:

  • 8 MOA elevation marks

  • Illumination could be brighter

  • Flimsy Flip Caps

Score: 8.0 Great

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

 

Alien Gear Cloak Dock

Finally, an easy and smart way to mount a holster under the dashboard of your vehicle!

The product development folks at Alien Gear Holsters have another interesting product that interacts with the Cloak Mod OWB Holster (previous reviewed here). The Cloak Dock is a holster mount that allows you to attach your handgun holstered in the Cloak Mod OWB to whatever surface you desire. The biggest advantage I see with the Cloak Dock is you could conceal it at home or your workplace (if permitted) and have a car holster for the commute in between.

Thats right, you can mount your holster to the wall, under the desk, beside the nightstand, to the vehicle console, inside the safe door, or even in the shower! This lets you leave the gun in the Cloak Mod holster when its not being carried for convenient concealed access, yet detach and take the holster and gun with your on the go. AG generously saves you a trip to the hardware store by including an bunch of different screws and even a drill bit so you can mount the Dock onto a plastic, wood, drywall or sheet metal.

The template makes it super easy to mount the dock wherever you want, and the screws, anchors and drill bit included mean no trips to the hardware store.

Once you've picked where you want to mount the dock, use the template guide to drill the 4 pilot holes using the supplied 1/8" drill bit. AG recommends using a 1/2" bit for drywall installation (not included) due to the drywall anchors. If you are mounting into sheet metal, You can skip drilling pilot holes since the sheet metal screws are self-driving. Once you've mounted the two mounting brackets correctly, you have to decide whether you want the gun handle facing in or out, which is dictated by whether the alien head shaped paddle or the holster shell itself is facing outward.

Made your choice? Then you mount the docking bar between the two brackets with the correct label facing out (paddle side OR shell side) and the point of the triangular shape pointing down. Don't worry, the paddle will only snap over the docking bar one way, so its hard to screw it up. It's whether you have the bar reversed or not between the brackets that makes the difference. Depth adjustment is another design consideration that was implemented into the Cloak Dock, allowing you to tuck your gun closer up against the mounting surface, or protrude out farther for better access. Oh, and if you are wondering if your holster's cant will affect how it docks, don't worry... the dock has enough room for both forward and reverse cant, with one small limitation - at it's shallowest depth setting with the docking bar shell side out, the dock won't release a canted holster.

The docking bar's depth can be adjusted for less or more space between the gun and the wall.

Using the docking system is simple enough, just slide the paddle attachment of the Cloak Mod holster onto the center docking bar until the belt ledge of the paddle snaps over the bar. It should be as easy as a single fluid motion, with the added mass of the gun in the holster. The lockup is okay... not completely rock solid though. When its time to head out and you need to take the holster with you, just pull up from behind the paddle and pull the holster off the mount. It is possible to torque the gun's grip causing the the paddle to bend outward and freeing the locking ledge from the docking bar without having the manipulate the paddle yourself, but you would never do this unintentionally when drawing the gun from the holster. The draw is easy and clean, no different then if you had the holster on your belt.

In my small Toyota pickup, the best place to mount the dock is right under the steering wheel between my legs. Its out of sight incase I have to leave the Cloak Mod and my gun in the vehicle.

This is a great addition for gun owners wanting a solution for concealing inside of their vehicle, whether mounted under the steering column, alongside or even inside the center console. You could also purchase additional docks to place in the office or at home, even inside your gun safe's door for easy storage keeping the gun and holster together. When its time to head out and you need to take the holster with you, just pull up from behind the paddle and pull the holster off the mount.

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: Attach your Cloak Mod OWB Holster to a variety of surfaces with the all-new Cloak Dock Holster Mount.

Target Market:  Cloak Mod OWB owners wanting to "dock" their firearm in a vehicle, office, etc.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Interfaces with Cloak Mod Holster
  • Constructed of glass filled nylon
  • Mounts to plastic, wood, drywall or sheet metal
  • Docking Bar configurable for left or right hand orientation
  • Accommodates both forward and reverse cant of Cloak Mod Holster
  • Comes with template for drilling holes
  • 30-Day Test Drive and Forever Warranty. 

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

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"I been wanting something like this for a while and I am glad alien gear came out with this. I had recently purchased the OWB holster but I never really used it since I conceal carry, and for only 15 bucks I was able to convert it into a bedside holster. Now I can quickly grab my gun in an emergency which is only 20 inches form me now mounted on the side of a book shelf. Alien gear is amazing, I order it only 3 days ago and it arrived already. They keep coming up with awesome products and continue to sell them at ridiculously low prices" - Website Review

"This is a need to own product. (must own cloak mod 3.0 holster) I just received the cloak dock in the mail, I was extremely excited to get it installed but Where?? Well being In Arizona and having a ccw permit, I decided to set it up in my 2014 Nissan Frontier. With very little room to the center consle it wasn't difficult to install,. I still have enough leg room and it's at the ready. With it's versatility you can mount to plastic, wood or thin metal. Also you can switch the sides if you want the paddle or shell facing out, Highly recommend this product" - Website Review

PRICE POINT:

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Alien Gear Holsters

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Adaptable in either padded in/out configuration for left/right handed.
  • Easy to remove holster to switch to carry
  • Includes 1/8 drill bit, nice!

Cons:

  • If your holster paddle is setup for a cant, it won't release when shell side out if the dock is set to the its shallowest depth
  • The locking interface could be more secure

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

Sig P938 Scorpion

I've recently made the switch from carrying a full size double stack 9mm to a single stack pocket gun on a daily basis.

I've been wanting to review this little pocket pistol for quite a while now. It's quickly becoming my favorite CCW gun, perhaps even my favorite in the entire collection. Not only is it a nearly perfect carry, but it shoots really, really well.

I quite enjoyed my time shopping around for a dedicated EDC handgun that could easily and discretely fit in the pocket of my pants, jacket or vest. Ultimately I was searching for something that would become my summer carry, and backup carry in the fall/winter. My standards were pretty simple: 9mm single stack, 7+1 capacity of higher, 3 inch barrel, tritium sights or aftermarket availability of night sights, manual safety, and above all else it had to fit in a pocket holster like a DeSantis Nemesis or Sticky Holster.

In the DeSantis Nemesis holster, the P938 practically melts into your pocket. Any minor imprinting would be taken as a wallet or bulky smart phone instead of a gun, even with the extended magazine.

Fortunately at the time I had the luxury of working at one of the largest gun shops in the country, and everyday I got to handle all the potential candidates as well show customers who were shopping with the same parameters as I had in mind. The top 5 guns in the running were the Glock 43, S&W M&P Shield, Ruger LC9s, Springfield XDs and Sig P938. Obviously from the title and photos of this review, I picked the Sig. What did it for me was the overall length of the P938 was among the shortest, not an iota of polymer, tritium iron sights right out of the box, and it carried the reputation of a Sig firearm... high price, high quality. You really get what you pay for with this little guy, and you are actually getting a lot.

This is the baby 1911 for the 21st century, with everything I need and nothing I don't. Okay the laser wasn't a necessity, but on a short barrel gun its a nice addition.

The pricetag of the P938, or any Sig for that matter, often turns shoppers off and draws them toward the cheaper polymer frame pistols that are a good three to four hundred dollars cheaper. For a short while I was on the fence too. However after feeling the P938 in my hands 5 days out of the work week, a bond was formed and a fanboy was born! There are so many colors and aesthetic options for the P938, just like its older brother the P238 in 380acp. My heart was set on either the Extreme with its grey G10 grips, or the Scorpion with its Flat Dark Earth Cerakote and rattlesnake-like Hogue G-10 grips.

I chose the Scorpion because I wanted something different than a black gun, and Cerakote is a fantastic finish for longevity and wear. It does carry an extra $80 to the price at some retailers, but the heart wants what the heart wants. The P938 comes with a hard case, lined with cut foam to secure the pistol, extra magazine, minimalist holster, and a laser if desired. The magazines that came with my Scorpion is the 6 round flush bottom mag, and the 7 round mag with a finger extension. I believe some P938 models only come with the 6 round mags but the 7 rounder extended mags are sold seperately for about $40-50. The holster SIG included is a nice afterthought, but just like with an XD with gear from Springfield I usually just leave it in the box and use something else higher quality.

At first the ~$7-800 price tag was daunting to me, but the inclusion of SIG LITE night sights from the factory and the cerakote job made it easier to justify.

The beauty of the P938 in my eyes is that its basically a mini 1911. If you are familiar with the iconic Browning design, you'll be used to the magazine release button, slide stop, and thumb safety as well as using a single action with a mainspring housing and external hammer. It does not have a beavertail grip safety or a barrel bushing (thank God) and it actually has an ambidextrous safety thats not too obtrusive. There's a big chunk of the CCW community that believes a carry gun must be cocked and locked with no external safeties to fumble with... and I won't entirely disagree. In this case though of a single action, the safety should be engaged when carrying with a round in the chamber. When engaged, the safety blocks the hammer from moving. It may take awhile for someone to grow confident with this mode of carry, but I've found it to work just find.

You could carry with nothing in the chamber and hammer down, or hammer up to ease racking the slide, but honestly its a waste of time and overly cautious. Drawing a loaded single action and disengaging the safety can be a fluid and safe motion, if you practice and use common sense. 

Disassembly of the P938 is basically simplified version of taking apart a 1911 with a few less steps. Drop the mag and check for clear chamber, safety off, and pull the slide back while pressing on the slide release from the right side, just enough where you can pull it out from the left side. The slide should slide forward with ease now and separate from the lower. Now just pull out the recoil spring CAREFULLY because that will fly across the room if your aren't careful. Do it inside a bag if you need to. Then pull the barrel out and you are all set to clean, lube, and reverse the steps to reassemble. There is a thin metal hinged hook that is fragile near the hammer mechanism protruding from the frame, and when reattaching the upper slide you need to guide that hook down under the slide so it doesn't get bent. Push the slide release pin through the slide and pseudo barrel linkage while pulling that slide back until in snaps into place, and its ready to rock and roll.

The P938, just like other duty/combat SIG pistols, are set up to use a "combat" sight picture (front sight completely covers bullseye).

This group was shot aiming at the top of the diamond outline @ 15 yards using 115 grain FMJ ammo.

Now for my favorite part of a gun review, shooting the darn thing! The P938 looks like it would be a snappy pea shooter in 9mm due to its size, but I find it pleasant and smooth. I shoot my fair share of larger calibers, but 80% of the time I'm shooting 9mm so my hands aren't desensitized to recoil. The recoil spring and slide makes for a smooth and controllable impulse, and reacquisition of the sights is quick. The sight picture is very similar to shooting a 1911, and there is a potential for nice groups. Obviously this is no target or bench pistol, and if you plan on carrying it everyday like I do, then you need to train for shooting more active and stressful drills. Bad guys don't hold still, and they shoot back.

One of the first things I noticed when putting the initial rounds downrange with the P938 is that with a smaller framed single stack pistol, you have to pay attention to how much finger you use. Its easy to overinsert your finger into the trigger guard and use the first crease of your booger-hook to do the trigger pulling, which will cause your shots to fly left of the point of aim (right if you're are a lefty, hypothetically). Consciously using the pad of my finger instead brought the groups right into center of my point of aim.

This lil devil of a pistol will be my reigning EDC for years to come because it conceals well, and shoots very well for its size.

In my eyes the P938 is the finest pocket pistol in its class. By no means will I hate on the Glock 43 or M&P Shield because those are great little guns too. I love striker fired tupperware guns just as much as the next guy. However for me, depending on a quality pistol like the P938 on an everyday basis is a nice reassurance to have in the make of my mind.

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: With the introduction of the P938, SIG SAUER now offers the ballistic advantage of the 9mm cartridge in a platform similar in size to the best-selling P238 pistol.

Target Market:  Concealed Carry / Home Defense

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Caliber: 9×19 (there is a .22 LR variant as well as two 9mm-to-.22 LR conversion kits)
  • Capacity: 6+1 or 7+1 with extended magazine
  • Barrel Length: 3.0″ (threaded barrel variant also available)
  • Overall Length: 5.9″
  • Height: 3.9″
  • Width: 1.1″
  • Weight: 16 oz with unloaded magazine
  • SIGLITE Night Sights
  • Grips: Hogue Overmold, Rosewood, G10 (varies by P938 sub-model)
  • Trigger: Single Action Only. 7.5-8.5 lbs pull weight (7 lbs as tested)
  • Includes a Holster

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Plenty!

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"Overall, the SIG Sauer P938 is more pleasant to shoot than you’d likely expect. I’m sure it would be even better with an extended mag that allows all five fingers to join in on the fun. It’s super light, feels like a “real gun,” runs reliably, and is one of the easiest-to-conceal 9mms available. The cost of entry is on the high side, but the quality is commensurate. Where I really think the P938 is worth it is when you’re used to shooting a hammer-fired pistol with manual safety — especially and particularly a 1911. If you compete with a 1911, target shoot with one, carry one when your attire affords it, etc etc, then the P938 is a no-brainer. Same manual of arms in a carry piece or backup gun as your primary or as what you’re most used to and trained on? Yes, please." Truth About Guns Review

"The gun fits my hand great for a compact. I am pretty tall and have long fingers. The grip on this gun is a little wider than other compacts, so it's easier for me to feel comfortable with my grip. Also, with the extended mag that comes with the pistol, I don't have that awkward hanging pinkie. The handle is more square than say, a Glock, which has an oval shaped handle, so for me it is easier to keep a good grip, especially in hot weather. This comes standard with Sig Sights, which are "night glow" raised sights. I have poor vision, but have no difficulty aligning the sights in my dark hallway with no contact lenses in.The sight corners are rounded to prevent it from snagging on clothing during draw. As with all Sigs, the slide is really easy to rack back, it almost feels like it's on a ball bearing track compared to other pistols I own. From this compact 9 mm to my .45 1911, I have NO trouble racking Sig Sauer pistols and I don't feel fatigued from racking them when shooting for long periods of time. The "off the shelf" trigger weight is pretty lights (I can't recall the weight offhand), but it is lighter than that of other pistols I have. I like a light trigger, so I was pleased that I didn't have to adjust or upgrade this one. This pistol has very little recoil; I suppose because the pistol itself is a bit heavier than other models its size. I do like the weight, I feel it helps me recover to target better after a shot. Keep in mind though, grip and stance play a huge part in managing recoil." - The Well Armed Woman

PRICE POINT:

  • MSRP: $893.00
  • Retail: $630-$800

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Check your local SIG Dealer.

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Recoil is pleasant for a small frame/barrel
  • Night Sights right out of the box
  • Ambidextrous Thumb Safeties
  • Chamber can be cleared with safety still engaged
  • Cerakote makes cleaning easy, looks great
  • Easy Takedown

Cons:

  • Non Ambidextrous Mag Release
  • Beavertail in frame is small and doesn't protect large fatty hands
  • Gap in slide ejection port on right side

SCORE: 9.0 AMAZING

 

Featured FFL:

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

Ryan's Links:

Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

2 Likes

 

SOG TOC 20 Backpack

  Most people have heard of SOG knives. Well, SOG has now gotten into the backpack market. They are offering a pretty good selection of different size and use packs. They sent me one of their smaller ones, the TOC 20 in gray. The "TOC" stands for Tactical Operating Center. Thanks to SOG's website I now know this. When the pack first got here, there was very little info in the web about it, now SOG has plenty of info on their packs.

  I have lugged this TOC 20 pack for about 3 months now. It went to a couple trade shows with me. I used it as a makeshift range bag on a few occasions. But I didn't drag it behind a truck. The pack is very useful. Not the largest, it is stated as a 20 liter pack, but a nice size for day hikes, concerts, trade shows, or just lugging around town. The padded straps are a nice touch, once the pack is loaded with stuff. The straps are also quickly adjustable with pull straps at the bottom. There is also an adjustable strap that goes between the two shoulder straps, that latches them together at about chest level. I am sure there is a name for it, but I can't think of it. These straps will also slide up or down on a little rail system for best comfort and fit. The little buckle also has a built in whistle. Also on the straps are various Molle straps and some eye loops.

Looking Inside Main Compartment

Looking Inside Protective Pocket

  Now on to the pack itself.  The TOC 20 has 2 main compartments and 3 smaller ones. The main compartment, as I will call it, opens up at the top with the zippers going about a third of the way down the sides. Once open, one has access to the full depth and width of the pack. Inside the main compartment are 2 other zippered pockets, one on the front and one on the back. The front zippered pocket zips in the center and has a little lanyard loop inside. Probably for your keys. The other one zips all the way across and is about 5" deep. Along with the inside zippered pockets, there is also one that is just open. But on the front of this pocket are little inserts to slide pens, knives, etc into. Now behind the main compartment is another full size one. This one is for either a laptop or a water bladder. This compartment is what they call a pass through. It has full length zippers, one on each side of the pack. On the front of the pack are two zippered pockets, one on each side. These pockets are really nice to store bottled water, etc. I carry medical stuff in one of them. At the top of the pack, on the front, is a hardish padded dome pocket. This pocket is used to protect something like a cell phone or sunglasses, etc. Also, inside the padded pocket are some other little pockets to store stuff in. The only real problem I ran into with this protective pocket, was that it is easy to accidentally open it when trying to open the main compartment. Then everything in it falls out, defeating the protectiveness of the pocket. On the outside of this "safety compartment" is some hook and loop to put your Patriot Patch Co, patches on. All the pouches/compartments have dual zippers with finger pulls. The pulls are actually pretty sharp at the bottom of the half circle, but are big enough to work well without any problems. 

  Now on the front of the pack, they put this pannel with slots in it. This panel makes it possible to attach Molle gear and other such items. It is made from Hypalon. Hypalon is a durable synthetic rubber used on inflatable boats and such. I pulled pretty hard on these slots. It didn't even stretch them. It also has some other cloth Molle attachment points on the pack bottom. 

  Now that we have covered just about everything. The TOC 20's outer shell is made from 500D nylon. They also coat the nylon with polyurethane to give it a water resistant coating. I never dipped it in water, but the coating should help when it's raining. There are also two carry handles, one on the top, and one on the side. So if you don't want to sling your pack, there is another option. 

  So if you're looking for a new pack, look into SOG. Not your normal pack maker, but the TOC 20 is a good pack. And if you want something larger, they make those too. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Tactical Day Pack

Target Market:

Day hikers, students, or anyone looking for a small well organized daily carry pack

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product): 

  • 20 liter capacity
  • Padded shoulder straps
  • Adjustable sternum strap w/whistle  
  • Molle attachment points
  • Impact resistant top storage compartment 
  • Pass through access to laptop/hydration area
  • Plenty of pockets and compartments
  • Large zipper pulls
  • Water resistant  
  • 20.1" x 11" x 7.5"
  • 32.5 ounces 

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Black

What others are saying?:

Scratch at sogknives.com 5 /5 stars.

Thoughtfully designed and real good quality

I've long been a fan of SOG products so I had high expectations for the TOC 20. I wasn't disappointed. The quality of materials and construction is high and attention was paid to smaller details like zipper pulls and straps. The bag has multiple compartments allowing for separation of wet/dry and hard/soft gear, all of which are easily accessible. The ability to access the main areas through side zips, and the side handle are especially useful when traveling. The impact resistant top pocket is cool because when you open it, it acts as a tray - something I've liked on various fishing gear I've owned - which gives you good access to the contents without the risk of your stuff falling out. Finally, comfort - I'm over 6 feet tall and 250 lbs. with broad shoulders. Most day packs have straps that are either too narrow, too short or badly angled. The straps on my TOC 20 fit comfortably, even when the bag is fully loaded. It also feels good against my back while hiking or even jogging. If you're looking for a well-made, versatile day pack with with quality construction and features, the TOC 20 is a solid choice.

Link to other reviews:

None Found

Price point:

(MSRP versus actual retail)

MSRP = $159.99 at sogknives.co

Retail = $113.86 at Amazon 

I need it now! Availability:

Amazon or SOG knives 

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Padded straps
  • Adjustable sternum strap
  • Molle attachment points
  • Water resistant  
  • Side and top carry handles
  • Pass through compartment  
  • Hydration compatible  
  • Protective compartment

Cons:

  • Zipper pulls are sharp
  • Easy to accidentally open protective compartment when trying to open main one
  • Big SOG logo
  • Too tactical looking

Score: 7.5 Good

 

Chad's favorite link: Axelson Tactical
 

Wisconsin Trigger Company M-K IIA2 Trigger

Some people spend a lot of hard earned money on aftermarket gun parts to squeeze more accuracy out of their AR-15 rifle. Pricey barrels, tricked out stocks, fancy receivers and other mods can play a crucial role in ergonomics, harmonics and other factors that affect the bullet traveling down the bore, but they aren't nearly as important as the trigger mechanism. Anyone worth their salt in the shooting realm will tell you the trigger can make the difference between a good group and a bunch of excuses. The finest barrel on the market won't do much good if a laborious trigger pull causes drastic variation before the shot breaks and the bullets leaves the muzzle. Any deviation, even by a degree or two, can throw the shot off target.

The AR-15 trigger has seen a huge jump in design and engineering advancement in the last 57 years. Most shooters would have a hard time holding consistent 1 MOA groups at 100 yards and further using a gritty, stiff single stage trigger. Precision shooters require a crisp break that prevents the shooter from exerting any unnecessary forces on the rifle during the moments when the trigger is pulled, freeing the hammer to swing into the firing pin and detonate the primer. Even the microseconds when the powder is ignited and the projectile travels down the bore, excessive movement from trigger overtravel or continued pulling force can move the barrel off the point of aim.

Thankfully improvements in sear disconnects, spring weights, and user adjustability have turned the old Armalite rifle design into a strong contender on the range for competitive marksmanship. Competition shooters often select match grade two stage triggers for their precision builds.  A two stage trigger has a first stage "takeup" of average pull-weight that comes to a stop when pulling slowly. This wall allows the shooter to breathe, focus on the target and stage the second step, a hair more of pressure that releases the hammer. The overall force needed to fire is the same between a two stage and a single stage trigger of the same weight rating, but the two stage requires much less pressure in the final stages before the actual break

The Milazzo-Krieger Two Stage Match Trigger System, or M-K II is the first patented two stage match trigger system for the AR platform. If you're wondering where you've heard of it before, you may have spent some time at Camp Perry. The M-K II has been widely used in M-16 rifles competing and setting records in the US Army Marksmanship Unit (USAMU) since the early 1990's. Production stopped in the mid 1990's, however the Wisconsin Trigger Company began to offer the M-K II trigger on its 25th birthday using all the original tooling and fixtures. The first generation of M-K II triggers required some trimming of the metal at the back of the trigger unit to adjust overtravel, but luckily the Gen2 model resolved the need for unpleasant grinding.

Comparing the M-K IIA2 trigger (left) and the Rock River Arms two stage trigger (right) you can see the RRA disconnector is preset and not adjustable.

Left: M-K IIA2 trigger. Right: RRA trigger

The next generation of the M-K II, designated as the M-KIIA2 was designed with the tactical shooter in mind. The Wisconsin Trigger Company implemented a user-adjustable second stage release via an allen screw that moves the disconnector up and down. This allows the user to find the precise moment where rearward trigger movement contacts the disconnector and forces the second stage to break on their rifle, which is called the "Zero Point." They also incorporated a factory set over travel, forward trigger overtravel, and small pin and large pin Colt styles.

Left: M-K IIA2 hammer. Right: RRA Hammer

Installing a AR trigger thats not a singularly housed drop-in component can be intimidating if you haven't done it a few times, but the instructional booklet and the online videos on the manufacturers website help clarify the process. Basically you remove your existing trigger components, install the M-K IIA2 trigger first, then put the MK-11A2 hammer in. The M-K IIA2 has a redesigned disconnector (the wedge shape that forces the hammer to slip away from the trigger's sear) that moves up and down with a simple screw, and provides a faster hammer reset (AKA faster shooting).

You need to remove the safety selector to properly install the trigger, so just loosen the pistol grip enough to pop it out temporarily.

The supplied trigger and hammer pins were tight enough to warrant using a hammer and punch. I don't see them walking out anytime soon.

Tightening the screw all the way down moves the disconnector downward and out of the way, removing the second stage of the two stage trigger pull alltogether. Backing the screw back out will re-establish that second stage contact with the disconnector and increase the pressure needed to achieve that break. Following the instructions, you delicately and patiently keep adjusting the screw up and down while pulling the trigger/manually resetting the hammer until you find the precise moment of contact where a mouses breathe could set off the second stage. Then you must back out the screw by approximately 3/8 of a turn... this is the factory recommended setting for adequate safety. I myself felt that 5/16 turn was more preferable. Then all you do is back it out 4 full turns, apply a thread locking compound, and retighten 4 turns back to your personal setting.

Finding the "0" point is tedious, requiring minuscule increments of tightening/loosening until you barely first feel contact with the disconnector.

I used a paint pen to mark an indicator dot, which allows you to back the screw out precisely for the final position, and then in and out again for the Loctite application.

I used the tip of a small narrow phillips screwdriver to apply the blue Loctite to the disconnector adjustment screw... its a tight space so this was the easiest solution.

But that’s not all. The M-KIIA2 also comes with three varying weight disconnector springs. They are colored red, white and blue (the blue spring comes factory installed in the trigger) The white spring is the heaviest at 5.0lbs, whereas the blue is the middle ground at 4.5lbs and the red is the lightest at 3.25lbs. I opted to leave the blue spring as is, because I was satisfied with the break I had found with my adjustments of the disconnector.

The included chart and instructions make it easy to change out the disconnect spring for lighter of heavier personal preference.

The redesigned disconnector of the M-K IIA2 also provides a faster hammer reset over traditional trigger systems. The forward trigger over travel allows the trigger to move forward after the hammer has reach it's reset, keeping trigger spring pressure on the shooter's finger which greatly reduces "trigger slapping" when shooting high speed consecutive shots.  In a 3-Gun or other competitive setting where a carbine must be proficient in both close range/fast target transitions as well as long range, slower and precise shooting, this two stage trigger system really shines.

*Note: I will post range photos in a future update. The day before a planned range trip I injured myself pretty badly. Stay tuned for groups of both slow fire at 100 yards and rapid fire at 25 yards.

Overall I was very pleased at the performance of the M-K IIA2 trigger. Installation was no different than a standard trigger, but the ability to change out spring weights and tune the disconnector with ease are huge benefits to someone wanting a more personal touch to their AR-15 trigger. Since publishing this review, the M-K IIA3 trigger was released, that retains the features of the A2 with the addition of an ambidextrous safety selector with a hole which allows to user to fully adjust the trigger overtravel.

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: The M-K IIA2 combines the original M-K II world class match trigger release with a high speed trigger design.

Target Market:  AR-15 owners: competition or recreation

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Adjustable second stage release
  • Factory set over travel
  • Forward trigger over travel
  • Available in small pin (GI Type) and Large pin Colt Styles
  • Short hammer reset
  • Redesigned disconnector
  • Quick installation and tuning
  • Includes 3 different weight disconnector springs: White 5.0lb, Blue 4.5lb, & Red 3.5lb
  • Includes Slip 2000 Lube
  • Instruction manuals & Spring Chart
  • Transferable Lifetime Guarantee

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Bronze bearing version available

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING?: 

"For those who are looking for an extremely crisp AR15 trigger that closely mirrors the “feel” of a finely tuned M1 / M14 trigger, this trigger might be the solution. The first stage is exceptionally clean and smooth due to a proprietary diamond-grinding process. I felt that the first stage travel was longer than a Geissele, but many guys will prefer that. Upon reaching the very noticeable and defined “wall” of the second stage, a further increase of pressure provides the instantaneous snap one looks for in a high-quality trigger — complete with a total absence of anything resembling creep or slop."
Johnny Fisher, accurateshooter.com

PRICE POINT:

  • MSRP: Starting at $225.00

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Bravo Comany USA or check other Wisconsin Trigger Company dealers

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • 3 different disconnector spring weights allow user to choose between light, standard or heavier pull weights.
  • Trigger and hammer pins were nice and tight (punch and hammer required)
  • Documentation/Instructions included are thorough (but videos were more helpful during the actual installation)
  • Stickers and magnet swag!

Cons:

  • Standard GI trigger blade shape
  • Other components of trigger assembly are off-limits (unsafe and void warranty if tampered with)
  • Thread locking compound not included

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

Patriot Concealment Annihilation IWB Holster

Inside the Waistband holsters should be comfortable, secure, and simple

Kydex Inside the Waistband (IWB) holsters can be classified into three categories. Lavishly comfortable, feature-rich and expensive... simple and efficient.... and cheap junk. Luckily I don't do many reviews of the third kind of holster, and like many of us I am not wealthy enough to spoil my guns with exotic materials and fancy gadgetry. This time I wanted to review a solid, simple and relatively affordable kydex holster that is built to flat out work and work hard.

With a slim single stack pistol, the Annihilation really feels minimal behind the hip.

The Annihilation IWB Series holster from Patriot Concealment Solutions is a dedicated inside the waistband holster. Its a very simple design that bears a lot of resemblance to other kydex holsters on the market, until you see the quality and customization that it offered upon ordering your own holster. I was told is the Annihilation IWB holster was the most popular product among  Patriot Concealment's customers, and I had to give it a try for myself.

With a double stack frame, the thickness of the holster is going to be more noticeable.

The Annihilation boasts more than just a obviously awesome name. There are several options available to the customer in order to make the holster just right. Starting with your gun make/model and left or right handed orientation, you can then choose between three sweat shield lengths, three front sight channel sizes (to accomodate oversize or suppressor height iron sights), a nice selection of colors/patterns, IWB fold over clip or soft polymer snap loops, an optional concealment claw, and whether your handgun has a threaded barrel, accessory rails, or a slide mounted optic that needs to be accounted for in the kydex mold for proper fitment.

The Annihilation can also be used as AIWB (appendix inside the waistband) and can be easily adjusted for comfort in your sitting down.

The only options missing that you often see in other competitor's holsters is an adjustable cant angle, and the option for ambidextrous hardware for swapping orientation and which side of the hip you are carrying on. Patriot decided to make a permanent 15 degree forward cant, with the reasoning that in the most ideal carry position of near one's kidney and just above the user's wallet, the preset 15 degrees of forward cant provides the proper angle for reaching the grip and drawing the firearm. Personally I like the option to set me own cant angle, but the simplistic design of the Annihilation is really only comfortable in two positions on my belt, 4:30 -5:00 at the back of the kidney as suggested... or appendix carry (only if you selected the shorted sweat shield so your not jabbing yourself in the gut) however the inability for a negative 15 degree cant rules the latter position out.

The kydex covers the mag release to prevent any unintended mag drops

The hardware is solid and idiot-proof

The retention is user adjustable by the tightening or loosening of two phillips head screws compressing rubber bushings forward of the trigger guard. I believe this is a standard, must-have feature on any holster, unless it falls into that "Cheap Junk" category mentioned earlier. The Polymer FOMI clip is easy to use, overlapping the waistband of pants and accommodating belts up to 1.5 inch width and a generous thickness of 3/8 of an inch. The thickness of the belt clip is a double edged sword... while it gives the user an ability to move the holster on the fly to find their sweet spot... the lack of friction on belts 1/4 inch or thinner will likely cause the holster to move too freely, depending on your figure and tight your pants holds the holster against your body. Some manufactures address this by offering different sizes of belt clips. Of course you do have the option to substitute a polymer soft belt loop with a snap button, but I'm not a big fan of those either personally, and they add an extra $15 to the total cost.

When ordering a custom Annihilation, you can also select the size of the front sight channel in case you have a taller suppressor height front sight.

In all honesty, this holster design has never been the most comfortable or concealable for my body type, pants and EDC belt choice, but it has been known to work for plenty of other concealed carriers. I'm not afraid to say loosing 30-50lbs would make this design more comfortable on my belt, and also print less. However the most positive feature I can point out about this small and efficient use of kydex, is that you can fully wrap your hand around the pistol's grip without any hinderance from extra kydex, belt loops, or anything. This is really nice when practicing drills of drawing from concealment garments, as there's nothing to get in the way of a nice solid purchase on the grip.

The height of the sweat guard is also customizable. I really like the standard non-extended height so I don't get jabbed in the flab as much.

All-in-all, the Annihilation is an easy to use, no frills IWB holster that is rock solid in hardware and construction. With the ability to choose customizations for a tricked out pistol with aftermarket accessories without spending $80+ on a custom holster. The saying "Simpler is Better" or "Keep It Simple Stupid" definitely applies to the strength of the Annihilation holster.

Another great feature is the how flush the kydex is to the pistol's trigger guard, so there nothing getting in your way of a full and firm purchase when gripping the frame.

**NOTE: If you have a popular holster model and don't require as many customization options, Patriot Concealment offers a "Quick Ship" option to get the product in your hands faster (3-5 days vs the 4-6 typical lead time for a customized holster) Models included are Glock 42, Glock 43, Glock 26/27/33, Glock 19/23/32, Glock 17/22/31, S&W MP Shield, Springfield XD-S 3.3, and the Sig Sauer P238/P938. Color is Black Carbon Fiber only, right handed only, and sweat shield size is full.

FIREARMS INSIDER REVIEWS – 8 KEY POINTS

Claim to Fame: This holster has been battle tested and proven to be a go to choice for concealed carry.

Target Market:  Concealed Carry Handgun owners

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Light Weight
  • No Added Bulk, .080 thickness
  • Hardware is American Made Brass & Steel finished with Black Oxide
  • Adjustable Retention
  • Customized molded for each individual order
  • Each Order custom finished to perfection

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  Black, Black Carbon Fiber, Storm Gray Carbon Fiber, OD Green Carbon Fiber, Killer Coyote Carbon Fiber, Coyote Brown

What others are saying?: 

"I regularly carry everything from a Glock 26 all the way up to an HK45 and have bought many holsters. I ordered one of these for my glock 26 having not found a viable everyday carry IWB holster that met all my needs. I was looking for something comfortable in every position (2-6 o'clock) and something easily concealable. This holster exceeded my needs. So comfortable I can't tell it's there, small in size, and the best holster on the IWB market for reholstering the gun! I have owned crossbreed, aliengear, Galco, desantis, and many more but I liked this holster so much I went ahead and ordered one for my Glock 23 and my Sig P320 which are my other 2 guns most widely used in my rotation. Excellent quality, excellent functionality, and excellent customer service. I am very picky on holsters so I would urge everyone to buy one of these, you will not be sorry!" Seth Wright, customer

"I am a big guy....you know the adage for big guys, I have enough inside the trousers why would I want to carry IWB, get an OWB.  With this holster this is not the case, it is extremely comfortable, I wear appendix carry and there is no problem with this holster while sitting, especially in a car. Excellent holster at an excellent price." Bear Miller, customer

PRICE POINT:

  • MSRP: Starting at $64.99, add-ons increase price

I NEED IT NOW! AVAILABILITY:

Patriot Concealment Solutions - Quick Ship available for popular gun models here

OUR RATING:

Pros:

  • Very lightweight
  • Design gives user 100% access to frame's grip

Cons:

  • Limited carry positions for comfort
  • Cant angle is preset
  • No beveled edge or flared mouth to assist in reholstering
  • No instruction or literature included

SCORE: 7.0 GOOD

70.jpg
 

Featured FFL:

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

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Gun & Gear Review Podcast
Hunter of Design

LUCID L5 4-16x44 Scope

 A long, long time ago... Oh wait, wrong story. Now, on to the Lucid Optics L5 scope. I was looking for a scope to mount on my Savage, that now sports the MDT chassis. I sent Lucid a request because I had heard good things about them. They decided to send me the L5 in 4-16x44. They also sent me one of their L7's which will be reviewed later.

  Now it was time to mount the scope up. So, I went and purchased some 30mm rings. My local store was out of the Warne rings I wanted, so I opted for the Weaver Tactical rings. The scope dropped nicely into the medium height rings without any problems. Once leveled, clamped down, and bore sighted, I took it to the range to see how I liked it. After sighting it in, I was ready to get some time behind it.

  Lucid touts the 4-16 as their "Cross Over" rifle scope. I would have to agree. In this optic range it will be well suited for hunting and also work well at the range. Now onto the important stuff. The L5 uses a one piece 30mm tube for its main body. By having a 1 piece tube, the L5 should be fairly rugged. It uses a 34mm ocular lens (the one you look through) and a 44mm objective lens. The "L5" reticle is glass etched on the second focal plane, and for the price I wouldn't expect it to be a first focal plane. Weighing in at 18 ounces, it is comparable to other scopes of this size. It uses a side focus parallax adjustment that is adjustable from 15 yards to infinity. The eye relief is fairly generous at 3.25"-4.25". Click adjustable turrets give you 50 MOA of windage and elevation adjustment. 7.5 MOA per revolution in 1/8 MOA clicks. The L5 also has all of the usual scope stuff: fog proof, water proof, etc.

  While using the L5, I started to really get an appreciation for the reticle. The L5 reticle has fine enough marks that I could make very precise shots. The center aiming point is a small 0.125 MOA dot. When using the BDC, the lines are also not too thick. The BDC lines are spaced every 2 MOA down the reticle and are 1 MOA wide. At first I thought "why not every 1 MOA", but after using the reticle, I actually started liking it. Mainly because it wasn't too busy and filled with lines. There are also windage dots spaced 4 MOA across the reticle. Depending on your ballistics, these may or may not be too useful. I would have liked to seen them at 2 MOA intervals. Below is a picture describing the L5 reticle, you'll get the idea. If you have a ballistic app with the L5 in it, it makes using the reticle much easier.

20" plate at 200yds on 16x 

  My favorite aspect of the L5 scope is the turrets. Being 1/8 MOA allows you to precisely adjust your zero. The turrets also lock down so they can not be turned. To adjust the scope, you must pull out on the adjustment knob, it will move out about 1/4". Then make your windage or elevation adjustment. And push the turret back down to lock it in place. I tried grabbing on to them tightly when locked, and could not turn them. Another nice feature of the turrets is the little rubber raised grips on the turret itself. The power zoom adjustment also has these raised rubber grips, but the one at 4x is slightly higher. Making it so you can reference the power adjustment knob. As with almost all scopes with target style turrets, they are resettable to zero. just take the supplied allen wrench, loosen the screw in the middle of the turret, pull cap up, reset to zero, push back down, and tighten the screw. One slight problem I noticed, the turret cap doesn't always go exactly back to zero. It will be close, but the 1/8" adjustments must be finer than the turrets cap threads. Don't get me wrong, the scope tracks fine, and will adjust back to zero, just not the cap. Speaking of tracking, I had no problems moving the turrets 2 turns out and then back to zero. The shots were still where I expected them. I did not however do a true scope tracking test.

  The clarity of the L5 is pretty good. They state a 92% light transmission, I can't test it, so I'll go with their spec. When having the magnification down at 4x, everything was sharp and crisp. Even at 12x, the clarity still surprised me, especially for a scope in this price range. Now at 16x, you could start to see a small haziness. It was better than I expected, but still noticeable. I also shot it in 100 degree heat, the mirage off the barrel didn't really seem to make it any more hazy either.

Zero misalignment and raised index on zoom adjustment

  After shooting quit a bit with the L5, I don't want to have to return it. But I would like a little more magnification on this particular rifle. I wouldn't hesitate to send people I know over to Lucid Optics. They offer some decent optics in the "not over the top expensive" category. I would also like to see them manufacture a scope with a first focal plane reticle. Go check them out if your in the market for a good sub $450 scope.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quality scope with a useful MOA reticle

Target Market:

Hunters, target shooters, or basically anyone wanting a 4-16 scope

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product): 

  • 4-16 power
  • 30mm tube
  • 13.25" long
  • 18 ounces
  • 44mm objective lens
  • Waterproof  
  • Fogproof
  • Shockproof up to .338 Lapua
  • Side parallax adjustment  
  • Multi coated optics
  • L5 etched reticle
  • 1/8 moa adjustments
  • Lockable turrets  
  • 50 moa adjustment range
  • Comes with Flip caps

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

6-24x50 also available

What others are saying?:

M. Cotton: 5/5 stars at Amazon

Great scope for not a lot of money.

I was a bit put off at first because I knew nothing about Lucid Optics. Well, I was very pleasantly surprised. The glass is clear and bright the turrets lock and click very solidly. One thing I initially had concerns with, is how fine the reticle is. The literature says the center dot is 1/8th MOA, so are the stadia lines. I had trouble seeing the hashmarks until I focused it for my aging eyes. I can see them fine know. The scope came with flip caps, the front one is fine, the rear one doesn't fit very tightly. I used a couple of small spots of clear silicone to fix it in place, it stays fine now. All in all the scope does everything I hoped it would. I would buy another if I needed one.

wlbooth: 5/5 stars at Brownells

BEST SCOPE FOR THE MONEY! HAND'S DOWN!

Dollar for Dollar you can not beat Lucid scopes! I'm so glad I came across these scopes about 6 months ago, And I challenge Anyone to find a better scope for the money. It Can't Be Done. Period!!

Link to other reviews:

Guns 111th 

Price point:

MSRP = $419.00

Retail = $349.99 at Brownells

$328.99 at Amazon

I need it now! Availability:

Lucid, Amazon, or Brownells

Our Rating:

Pros: 

  • Clear glass 
  • Target turrets
  • Etched L5 reticle
  • Turret locks
  • 1/8 moa adjustments
  • Price
  • Ability to set turrets to zero
  • Raised index on magnification ring
  • Lifetime warranty  

Cons:

  • Slightly fuzzy at 16x
  • Zero mark doesn't always align with line on scope body
  • Windage marks at 4 moa intervals

Score: 8.0 Great

 

Chad's Favorite link: U.S. Tactical Supply

 

Thompson Tactical Gun Belt

   Thompson Tactical is a small leather shop specializing in custom belts. You can find their belts at leathergunbelt.com. When I say they make custom belts, it means they craft them by hand, and the craftsmanship shows. Their gun belt is a double layer, hand stitched belt. They also offer standard, single layer belts. 

  Now that we know something about Thompson Tactical, lets get into the great gun belt that they so graciously sent me. The belt is made from products purchased in the USA. This includes the full grain leather, the various buckle options, etc. When ordering the belt, one can also decide the color of the belt, ranging from tan to black and even mossy oak. Another nice touch is being able to select what color thread you want the belt to be stitched with, either single or double stitching options. My favorite option is the ability to have a kydex insert in the belt. The kydex adds a slight stiffness, but its real advantage is that it keeps the belt from stretching over time. 

  When I learned that Thompson Tactical was sending me a belt, I immediately went and ordered one. My belt is 1.5" wide, black, has a stainless non-roller buckle, single stitched with a kydex insert. I ordered the 1.5" belt because it is basically the standard for gun belts. Options are also available for 1.25" and 1.75" widths. Additionally, I opted for the kydex insert, because who doesn't want a little extra stiffness and a longer lasting belt? The kydex insert appears to be stitched in place on the back layer of the belt before the two sides are beautifully stitched together. The edges are burnished together for what looks like a single piece of leather. Chicago screws are used to hold the buckle on, and the logo is then branded on the inside. 7 holes are spaced 3/4" apart to give you adjustment. Following the instructions on Leathergunbelt, the measurement of the belt was spot on and I wear it on the 4th hole. 

  I have worn this belt everyday since it arrived at my house. All I can say is "Wow", this is by far the best gun belt I have seen, let alone worn. It has one slight flaw, that isn't really the belts fault. Some IWB clips are not deep enough to fit over the belt because of the belt being 2 layers thick. Other than that, it fits perfectly. It has the right amount of slip or flex, so it moves with you. The stiffness is perfect, as it holds a gun all day without the gun moving, or me even noticing the weight. The stitching is straight and beautifully done. And, best of all, at least in my opinion, it smells like a leather shop! 

  So now that you know about these belts. Head over and check them out at Leathergunbelt.com. The belt is really a piece of functional art. You can wear it 7 days a week,  even on Sunday,  and not be under dressed. It may take a long time to get one, but quality takes time. I doubt you will be disappointed. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Hand made leather gun belt

Target Market:

People needing a quality gun belt 

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):  

  • Full grain leather  
  • Hand made
  • Double layer
  • Kydex insert
  • Chicago screws
  • 1.5" wide
  • 25 year warranty  

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

 Tan, Honey, Cordovan, Brown, and Mossy Oak

What others are saying?:

Gary P. at Leathergunbelt.com

I got my first Thompson Gun Belt just about a month ago and I have not worn another belt since then. Today I changed the oil in my Jeep and my son's pickup and so I decided to wear a regular belt so I didn't mess up my "real" belt. Spent a couple of hours yanking my pants up and generally hating wearing a "regular" belt again. Couldn't wait to take a shower and change back into my real belt again. Even though Francesco makes a "gun" belt his belts are actually "real" belts as far as I am concerned! If I have to roll around in oil or mud I will probably wear an old "plain" belt, but for every day- whether I am carrying or not- I'll never wear anything but a Thompson Tactical gun belt!

Phillip N. at Leathergunbelt.com

I received my belt today. I am more than impressed with the quality of the belt. You have absolutely exceeded my expectations! Thank you for the obvious pride you put into your work. I will definitely spread the word.

Link to other reviews:

Mattsplat's Gun Reviews (YouTube) 

OUR RATING:

MSRP = $97, + $25 for kydex, + $10 for double stitching

I need it now! Availability:

Leathergunbelt.com

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Full Grain Leather
  • Double layer
  • Kydex insert
  • Hand crafted  
  • Made in USA  
  • Lots of available options
  • 25 yr warranty

Cons:  

  • Thickness may cause problems with some holster clips
  • Wait time

 

Score: 9.0 Amazing

Chad's Favorite Link: ABC House Benefit Match

 

SuperBio IndestructiBelt

   As most people who conceal carry know, a good belt is a necessity. I had heard somewhere about the IndestructiBelt SuperBio by Daltech Force. So as any reviewer would do, I ask them if they would like me to review one. A few days later a brown one arrived for me to test. 

  The Daltech Force IndestructiBelt SuperBio belt is not your run of the mill carry belt. Instead it is made from a thermopolymer polyurethane with an internal polyester webbing. Basically this is a polymer belt that looks a lot like leather. But don't stop there. The SuperBio belt also is very strong, it is stated to have a 6000 psi tensile strength. The belt is also quite stiff, so don't worry about it sagging. I think you could carry just about any gun you wanted and not have to worry about it pulling on the belt. Since the SuperBio belt is made from polymer, it will resist oils, water, sweat, and other stuff that will destroy a leather belt. To clean the belt,  all you have to do is wipe it down with some soap and water. 

  As with most quality belts, it comes with Chicago screws to hold on the buckle. The one they sent me has a nice stainless roller buckle on it, but they also offer a brass buckle. The buckle can always be switched out if you don't like it. The belt comes with 9 holes spaced 3/4" apart. This comes in handy when adding or subtracting gear. At 5/32" thick it is about the same as a single thickness leather belt. Mine is 1.5" wide, but they also offer it in a 1.25".

  After wearing the SuperBio belt for awhile, I found it to be almost too stiff. It is just not as slick as a cloth or leather belt, so I don't think it moves with the fabric of your clothes as well. Did it support a gun? Oh yes, I even carried an all steel 1911 on it for a few days.

   As far as sizing goes, the SuperBio belt is easy to order. All you do is add 2" to your waist size. So for me I went with a 38 belt size because my waist is 36". With belt sizes ranging from 30" to 80", yes that is 80", Daltech Force makes it for just about any size person. 

  The SuperBio IndestructiBelt is a pretty good belt option. If you need something that resists harsh environments or you are looking for a very stiff belt, you might give this a try. It doesn't really look like leather close up, but from a foot or so away you can't notice. The belt will hold whatever you can put on it and is very adjustable to fit your needs.

   

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Tough Rigid Belt for CCW

Target Market:

Concealed carriers, competitive shooters, or those wanting a belt for harsh environments

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Thermopolymer Polyurethane

  • 1.25" or 1.5" width

  • Strong

  • Resists Oil, water, Sweat, or other harsh environments

  • Zero Stretch

  • Will not Sag

  • Stainless Buckle

  • Chicago Screws

  • Large sizes available

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

What others are saying?:

Dan @ DaltechForce 5/5 stars

Can't believe how well this belt held up! I've had my first one for almost two years and it has been through everything. It has been on multi day hikes with dripping sweat, it has swam in salt and fresh water, its my daily belt for both my office job and my weekend belt for recreation. If I showed you this belt you would swear I just pulled it out of the packaging! Fortunately/unfortunately I've lost a significant amount of weight in the last year and I am back to purchase this belt again! One thing that I would recommend is to put some thread lock blue on the screws as soon as you get it. I've read of others losing a screw and they include a spare, but better safe than sorry. Otherwise a really maintenance free, good looking, and long lasting belt that is rigid and does a great job holding my CCW without it flopping about.

Amazon reviewer 5/5 stars

This is a great belt! I love it! I like to carry a lot of stuff in my pockets and on my belt. With this belt, I no longer have to keep hiking my pants up. I wish I had ordered one sooner. It really does make a big difference.

 

Price point:

MSRP = $69.99

Retail = $59.99 on Amazon

I need it now! Availability:

Daltechforce or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Strong

  • Won't stretch

  • 9 holes at 3/4" spacing

  • Stainless roller buckle

  • Chicago Screws

  • Will not sag

  • Resists about anything it will come in contact with

  • Easily cleaned

Cons:

  • Too stiff

  • Doesn't move like Fabric or Leather

  • Doesn't really look like leather (But no one will know)

Score: 7.5 Good

 

Chad's Favorite Link: AR-15 Podcast

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