Defense Mechanisms 2 point Sling

  Defense Mechanisms (DM for short) is a newer company that makes quality gear and tactical products. DM is a company that likes to improve on existing technology. One of their products is a 2-point rifle sling. Yes, they improved upon the Vickers style sling and improved it’s functionality.

  If you use a long gun for any amount of time, you realize that you need a sling. A sling can be a simple way to wear your rifle from point A to point B. Or it can be an added support, to help stabilize a rifle, especially in non standard shooting positions. Either way, DM’s sling has you covered for just about any situation where a sling is needed. 

  Defense Mechanisms sling looks quite simple, and it is. But it has so many other functions that really set it ahead of the rest. Being a Vickers style sling, it has a quick adjustment “handle” at the front of the sling. This makes for effortless and quick adjustments in length. You can pull it shorter to make the rifle fit tight up against your chest, then quickly pull the handle to loosen it up and get into a shooting position. This pull tab handle sits out from the rifle, making it easier to locate than the flatter style seen on a lot of 2 point slings. If your hand is on the handguard, it just kind of naturally runs into the adjuster, at least that’s how it felt to me.

  The DM Sling is made from quality materials. It uses a 1” wide webbing that is extremely strong and doesn’t stretch like some of the less expensive ones. When I first looked at the webbing, I was concerned that it may be uncomfortable on the skin. To my surprise, it is more comfortable than I expected. It’s still a tad bit rough on my skin, but all slings are that way to some extent. The comfort is still a bonus when wearing a rifle sling all day long. Since the webbing doesn’t stretch, it makes for an extremely strong, and tight sling when in use. A tight sling equals a tight support. The sling can also be had in a variety of colors and patterns. I opted for MultiCam Tropic, mainly because it looks better in photos for the review, plus I like it.

  An option when purchasing the DM sling is QD swivels. I opted for the QD swivels. I wanted to see what the sling was like when completely outfitted from DM. The swivels are good quality. They are the half curved style, which work well when quickly adjusting the sling. Plus, since they are QD, the sling is easy to take off or move to different mounting positions.

  Storage of a sling, when on a firearm, is always problematic. DM has essentially cured this problem with the addition of built in storage straps. I will say, this is my favorite aspect of the sling. By sewing on, and putting elastic webbing (keepers) around the sling, DM has managed to make the sling tightly storable on the firearm. This allows the sling to be tight up against the side of the firearm and out of the way. Depending on where the sling is mounted, it also gives complete access to the safety and trigger of an AR style rifle, without the sling getting in the way! Having use of the rifle before engaging the sling, can be very useful, especially if leaving a vehicle in a hurry. To aid in the stowage of the sling, DM attached a pull “dongle”. This dongle aids in pulling the sling through the elastic keepers and works quite well. If you run the dongle back through the keeper, it also functions as a pull handle to yank the sling out of the keepers and back normal (meaning no longer in the storage configuration). Please go check out DM’s instructions, https://defensemechanisms.com/rifle-sling/ , on how to stow the sling, they have pictures and explanations that are way better than I can explain.

  Since we are in an ammunition slump, most of the sling use was in dry fire practice. Don’t get me wrong, dry practice with a sling is extremely important. I got so much better at using a sling when practicing with the DM sling! I was fortunate enough to have some real range time with the sling. I ran it with transition drills, from the stowed option, and from being tight up against my chest. In all of the cases, the DM sling performed great. It was easy to quickly adjust the length when it was tight up against my chest. Quick to pull it back tight too. When working from the sling stowed position, I was able to use the rifle as intended. Because of where the sling is mounted on my rifle, it slightly covers the safety selector. I wasn’t keen on this, but during use, it didn’t seem to affect manipulation of the controls. The sling dongle also made it easily return to the normal sling use position. All in all, the Defense Mechanisms sling works well

  The Defense Mechanisms 2 point sling is a nice option. I was pleased with how well it functions. The built in storage capability is a huge addition and keeps you from having to purchase other pieces to do the same thing. It has plenty of pattern options to match your gear preference. At $40, it is priced superbly for what you get. So if you are looking at a useful 2 point sling, go check out Defense Mechanisms.


Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Fast adjustable 2 point sling with containment features

Target Market:

Anyone needing a 2 point rifle sling

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 1” wide Webbing

  • Captured adjustment tab for quick indexing and adjustment

  • Minimalist design

  • Elastic keepers for easy stowage

  • Pull dongle for easy release from self storage

  • Optional QD swivels

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Black, Ranger Green, Coyote, Multicam, Multicam Arid, Multicam Black, Woodland, Wolf Grey

What others are saying?:

5/5 Stars - JC at DefenseMechanisms

I have a lot of slings and as far as functionality this is hands down the best one I have. The self storage issue is one that has plagued me for years. Defense Mechanisms got this right!!! Affordable price as well. I will be telling everyone I know about this sling.

Link to other reviews:

GunMagWarehouse

Price point:

MSRP = $40.00

As Tested = $55.00 (extra $15 is for QD sling swivels)

I need it now! Availability:

Defense Mechanisms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Built in storage

  • Easy to use adjustment slider

  • QD swivels

  • Rapid release from storage

  • Strong webbing

Cons:

  • 1” wide (I like slightly wider)

  • When stored, can cover some controls

Score: 8.50 Great

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Favorite Link:  Atibal Optics

XS Minimalist Night Sights

  XS sights released their new Minimalist night sights a few months back. If you haven’t noticed, I am a big fan of their standard style night sights, these are no different. The new Minimalist sights are just that, minimal. The name, however, does not give the sights justice, as they are really much more than minimalist.

  XS calls these sights Minimalist because only the front sight has tritium. Tritium is the isotope that causes the dot, in the center of the sight, to glow. The rear sight does not have any tritium, it is a basic style, squared notch, rear sight. I’ll discuss the front and rear sights separately to keep things simple.

  The front sight on the XS Minimalist series is really where all the super cool stuff happens. As noted, it holds the tritium so that a dot on the front sight can glow in low, or no light. But XS also put an orange ring of photoluminescence around the tritium dot. This does two things. One, it makes for a great front sight during regular daytime. But two, because it has XS’s “Ember Glow Dot” - photoluminescent, it glows if you hit it with a flashlight. The Ember Glow Dot can also help in situations where a regular tritium only dot will wash out.

Normal - Daytime

After shining flashlight on sight - Daytime

Low Light

  The rear sight, on the XS Minimalist, is not as fancy as the front, but it still has a lot of features. The most notable, is the serrations. These are tiny lines cut horizontally on the face of the rear sight. The serrations cut down on ambient light glare, as well as flashlight glare. This makes it easier to pick up, and see, the front sight. It is also slightly angled downward to help with glare. The other end of the rear sight is squared off to aid in one handed slide manipulations. As initially noted, the rear sight is your standard square notch style.

Total darkness - front sight after “Ember Glow” charged up slightly

  The XS Minimalist sights work very well. They worked perfectly on the G43 I mounted them on. The standard post front and square rear is just how I like them. When sighting down them, there is a little bit of light between the edges of the rear and the front sight, just like I prefer. Basically, I get a really good sight picture during the day and during low light. During the day, that orange dot draws your eye straight to it, making target transitions easier, at least they were for me. During low light, you can see the tritium dot glowing green, and it’s pretty bright. Of course, in darkness, all you see is the green dot, which is why you need some sort of light to identify your target. If using a handheld light, it is really easy to light up the Ember Glow Dot, just with the spill from the light. Then you have that glow around the tritium glow, so kind of the best of both low light sighting systems. Since some sort of light is always needed, the blacked out rear doesn’t cause any sort of problem for me. If you are unsure about it, XS makes plenty of other style night sights. But let’s face it, most of our shooting is done in some sort of light. The Minimalist’s are not available in a taller version for use with red dot sights, but after all, they kind of hint to it in the name,

  Installation of the Minimalist sights is straightforward. Just push or tap out the old rear and unscrew the old front. Put some of the supplied threadlocker on both front and rear sights. Since they are made from steel, just push in the rear with a punch or sight pusher. Set the front sight in, and then tighten the screw to specification. Then wipe off the excess thread locker and let sit. Then take it to the range and go shoot.

  So if you're in the market for a simple night sight option, the XS Minimalist’s might be it. I even like them as just standard sights. The price is good, they are made in the USA, and they come with a “no questions asked” warranty. The warranty is so good, that I lost a front sight once, and they sent me a new one. So definitely go check out the XS Sights product lines. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Minimalist Night Sights

Target Market:

Those wanting only a tritium dot on the front sight

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Tritium Powered Front Sight

  • Bright orange High-Contrast Front Sight

  • Ember Glow Dot - Photoluminescent dot absorb ambient light and glows in low light

  • Serrated anti-glare rear sight

  • Blacked-out Rear sight

  • Rear Sight Overhang and slight angle- Reduces rear sight glare in bright light for greater sight definition

  • Rear Sight Ledge for ease of use

  • Thread locker included

  • CNC Steel

  • Fits standard holster options

  • Made in USA

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

None, but plenty of other Night Sight options

What others are saying?:

5 stars on Amazon

 Quality at a reasonable price

Quality Sights at a fraction of the price. These sights are the best sights I’ve seen under 100 dollars.

Link to other reviews:

Mr GunsnGear youtube

Price point:

MSRP = $59.99

Retail = $59.99 on Amazon

I need it now! Availability:

Amazon or XS sights

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Photoluminecent dot

  • Serrated rear sight

  • Squared off front, of rear sight, for easier manipulation

  • Price

  • Made in USA

Cons:

  • Front sight width can be too wide for some people

  • No taller option for use with red dot sights (at least in the Minimalist version)

Score: 8.50 Great

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Favorite Link:  Walker NERO

Onnais Safe

  I ran across the Onnais safe when I saw a friend had one. Being the curious type, I proceeded to have them send me one. I liked that the Onnais had both fingerprint and numerical code access. It can hold 1 large framed pistol comfortably, or 2 if they are Glock 17 size or smaller.

  The Onnais is pretty functional. As long as you don’t expect it to keep career criminals out. It’s all steel exterior is nicely finished. Although I would like a little stronger steel on the lid, more on that later. It is foam padded on the inside, not the thickest foam, but not bare metal either. The biometric sensor is easily accessible, as is the numerical keypad and key slot. The safe also comes with a wire cable to secure it to something strong. Or it also has 2 screws that can be used to mount it to a flat surface. The holes are pre drilled in the bottom of the safe for the screws, and a slot is at the rear corner for the cable.

  Setup on the Onnais is really easy. Install the 4 AA batteries, which are not included. Use the instructions to program a code in. The number code must be at least 5 digits and up to 10. Two keys are also included. The keys are actual keys, not the barrel type typically found on cheaper stuff. Then you can program fingerprints in. It allows up to 30 fingerprints. Because it is a biometric sensor, I recommend storing about 5 or so with each finger you plan to use. Do the sides, tip, etc of one finger, then the next, and so on. That way there is a better chance that the reader will read your finger under stress.

  One of the things I like about the Onnais safe is the triple opening options. Even though the biometric reader has a less than 1 second read time, sometimes the biometric sensor wont read your fingerprint. You then have 2 other options to open the safe. Let’s be honest here, biometric readers are cool, but they can still be unpredictable. Mine wont read my fingerprint if I have a cut on my finger, or if some skin has recently been roughened up on it. Get some dried super glue on your fingertip, and it just won't read it. But don’t worry, that code you entered will still work. Just type that code in, press “OK”, and the Onnais pops right open. The key is basically a backup for if the batteries die, at least for me. The fingerprint reader actually performed very good for me, minus when I had other problems noted above. I just switched fingers when it gave me the flashing red light, then it usually opened right up.

  To put the Onnais into perspective, I call it a rapid storage box. Partially because a “safe” implies a bit of work to get into. This Onnais is great if you want something to keep children or others from gaining access to your pistol and still have almost immediate access yourself. I wouldn’t hesitate to put this on a nightstand or something similar. But there is the question about breaking into it. You can pry the lid up by sliding a butterknife between the lid and the frame. Enough so that you can get something stronger into it and pry on it. Until either the lid bends, but more likely is that the plastic locking latch will break. I didn’t pry on it enough to break the latch, but I see how it is highly possible. It does flex the lid quite a bit when prying on it with the knife. 

  Another option to use the Onnais in, would be a car. I say this loosely, because it needs to be placed somewhere it can’t be seen, maybe a trunk. But, because of the supplied cable, it can be wrapped around a semi-permanent fixture, like a seat mounting base. If it gives you a safer storage option than “your car is not a holster”, when you run into some place like a post office, or federal building, then it may have just done its job. The Onnais is not water or air tight, so don’t plan on using it in a boat, if you get the idea.

  The Onnais safe is a good concept. If you need quick access to a firearm, it might be just the ticket. If you need to keep it super secure, it might not. I do like the “safe”. Having backups to backups, makes it function like a quick access safe should. If it is to keep honest people honest, then it would be a good little bedside safe. You can check it out on https://onnaisafe.com/ or Amazon if you're interested.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Small storage case with fingerprint opening

Target Market:

Those wanting quick access to a handgun, but still a safe storage method

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 3 modes of access - Key, fingerprint, or code

  • Exterior is all steel

  • Holds 2 regular size pistols 

  • Exterior size - 11.49 x 9.17 x 3.07 inches

  • Interior size - 10.63x 6.69 x 2.91 inches

  • Weight - 5.8 lbs

  • Cable and mounting screws included

  • Uses 4 AA batteries - not included

  • 8-10 month battery life

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Newer Version

What others are saying?:

1 star on Amazon

Butter knife can beat this safe

The locking mechanism is, believe it or not, plastic. A sturdy butter knife can break into this safe. Took me about 1 minute.

4 stars on Amazon

Well done for its intended purpose

The gun safe is well built with no sharp edges, and is easy to operate. It has enough room for two Glock 19-size handguns. The instructions are clear on how to add new codes and fingerprints. The only real down-sides I see are that the fingerprint reader can be finicky and the internal foam isn't very thick. It is clear that the intended purpose is to deter others and secure your guns, but it would not prevent a determined criminal from opening it. It would absolutely work for securing guns away from children.

Pros:

- Well built

- No sharp edges

- Button beeps can be disabled (still makes some noise when opening but is far quieter)

- No internal spring that "over-springs" the lid when opening

- Easy to use and setup

Cons:

- Internal foam seems a little thin

- Fingerprint reader can be picky if your finger is not placed on the sensor exactly as it was when you programmed it

Link to other reviews:

Nothing of any value found

Price point:

MSRP = $129.99

Retail = $119.99 on Amazon

I need it now! Availability:

Amazon or Onnais

Our Rating: 

Pros:

  • Multiple opening options (Key, Fingerprint, Code)

  • Decent size

  • Cable and mounting screws included

  • Stores up to 30 fingerprints

  • Quick access with fingerprint or keypad

  • Easily programmed

Cons:

  • Thin metal - Lid can be pried up with a pocket knife

  • Fingerprint reader can be finicky

  • Plastic latch, as noted in Amazon review - Can be broken fairly easy

Score: 6.50 Okay

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Patmos Arms Judah 43 slide

  JSD Supply has been selling 80% kits and supplies for some time now. They offer the Patmos Arms’ series of slides, as well as other parts. They kindly sent this complete Patmos Arms Judah 43 slide out to me. The Judah 43 is for a Glock 43 or 43x size pistol. I actually installed it on a SS80 kit from the Glockstore. It proceeded to work great on that little SS80 frame.

  As noted, the Judah 43 is for a Glock 43 sized pistol. This includes the actual G43 and G43x, along with the SS80 and other 80% slimline frames. The Judah 43 comes in 2 configurations, stripped and complete. This review is for the later, as it came with internal slide parts and a match grade barrel. It does not come with sights, though they did install a set of factory plastic sights for me. It uses any standard G43 sights.

  The Judah 43 is a very nice simple slide. It has front and rear cocking serrations. Both of which run perpendicular to the slide. All the exterior edges have large chamfers, so nothing is extremely sharp. The interior and exterior machining are super smooth. Very few, if any machine marks can be seen on the inside, and Zero machine marks can be seen on the outside. Lastly, the Black Nitride coating is top notch and should last a very long time. Even if it were to wear through the Nitride coating, the slide is manufactured from 416 Stainless Steel, so corrosion should never be a problem.

  When the complete Judah slide was received, I realized that the upper parts were not installed in the slide. Not a problem for me, more of a heads up for someone purchasing a Judah slide. The parts not being installed actually worked out better for the review, since I was able to assemble the slide with the parts provided. All the parts fit great and were easily installed. No loose or ill-fitting parts were noticed when the slide was assembled. 

  Being a complete slide, a match grade barrel was also included. The barrel fit tight in the slide, but not so tight that the slide didn’t function properly. The slide also fits nice and snug on the SS80 frame. I'm sure it would have the same fit on other frames as well. I don’t know if it’s the barrel, or the whole pistol/slide combo, but this little pistol build shoots fantastic. I didn’t put it on paper, but on my tiny A-zone steel, it was keeping shots on target out to 15 yards with no problem. 

  I did install a set of XS Minimalist sights onto the Judah 43. As expected, the front sight fit snug without any side to side play. The rear sight had the typical interference fit, so I had to use a sight pusher and a small punch to install it. It’s just another point of reference to the quality of the machining.

  After using this Judah 43 slide for some time, I can say it is great. It does exactly what I want it to do. It’s very accurate. The finish is nice and smooth. There are no sharp edges, except on the slide serrations. But those are not sharp, per say,  just squared off. My only complaint is that it does not come optics ready at this time. The Judah would be a great fit for an 80% build or to turn your Glock 48 into a 43x size pistol.

  So if you are looking for a great slide, check out the Judah series at JSD Supply. It’s a quality slide at a great price. It comes stripped or complete with a match grade barrel and parts. If you're building a G43 type pistol, you can’t go wrong with the Patmos Arms Judah 43 slide, or probably any of the other Judah slides as well.

  

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Complete slide for Glock 43 or 43x

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a slide for their Glock 43 or 43x build

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Stripped or complete options available (Complete slide was given for review)

  • 416 Stainless Steel

  • Nitride coated

  • Front and Rear cocking serrations

  • Match Grade Nitride barrel

  • Complete upper parts kit included

  • Fits Glock 43 and 43X

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

None, but also available for other Glock models

What others are saying?:

Nothing found

Link to other reviews:

Nothing substantial 

Price point:

MSRP = $149.99 stripped - $299.99 complete (as tested)

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

JSD Supply

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Price

  • Top notch machine work

  • Accurate

  • Front slide serrations

  • Nitride Coated Stainless Steel

Cons:

  • No option for red dot sight

  • Comes unassembled 

  • Plain looking

Score: 8.50 Great

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Favorite Link:  Atibal Optics

Strike Industries "Strike Mag"

  Strike Industries has been hitting a home run in the aftermarket parts game. They continually bring out new products. Of those new products is the Strike Mag. The Strike Mag is a 32 round magazine for the AR-15 rifle.

  As with a lot of Strike Industries products, the Strike Mag has a semi-futuristic look. The way the magazine’s lines flow, just gives it that kind of look. Of course looks aren’t everything. So they gave the magazine an anti-tilt follower. Some anti-slip grip texture on the front and rear to aid in inserting and removal of the magazine. There are also some raised “dot matrix” textures on the front sides to aid in the aforementioned. And of course, it holds 32 rounds of 223/5.56 for only a little bit added in overall length.

  Some other features of the Strike Mag are really useful too. The first of which, the magazine has been designed to help prevent over-insertion. It has 2, what I like to call “bumps”, on the front and rear of the magazine, just below where a fully inserted magazine rests inside the magwell. These “bumps” help to stop the magazine from over-insertion when slamming in the magazine on a locked back bolt. I have seen this happen with other magazines and it essentially takes the rifle out of use until one can literally pry the over inserted magazine out. Another feature is the magazine base’s shock cord channel. This channel lets the shock cord, on many magazine carriers, fit snugly over the magazine. It keeps the shock cord from sliding side to side. It works extremely well on my plate carrier pouches.

  What does the extra 2 rounds get you? Unfortunately, it does make the magazine slightly longer. About ¾” longer than a standard GI magazine and ½” longer than a Gen. 3 Pmag. This has pluses and minuses. One plus is: If you stack magazine pouches, the Strike mags can be used to offset the magazines. Maybe put them closest to a plate carrier or chest rig so the back magazines are easier to grab. A minus is: They are longer. I didn’t really notice the extra length when shooting or reloading the AR.

  Luckily I received the Strike mag before the crazy ammunition prices, just barely. So I was able to run quite a few rounds through the mag. Just as I expected, the magazine ran great! I have had zero malfunctions when using it. I ran lots of cheap steel cased ammunition through it too. The magazine was tried in 5 different AR’s, from a 7.5” to 16”’er’s. It even drops free from my AR that has a slightly tight magazine well. So, I would say it is a good magazine, one you should probably check out. And yes, it does insert fully, when loaded with 32 rounds, on a closed bolt.

  Strike Industries has been coming out with top notch products. The Strike Mag is one of them. It holds 32 rounds instead of the normal 30 and functions great. Plus it is 100% made in the U.S.A. Go check out the Strike mag, or any of Strike Industries other stuff. I think you’ll be surprised at all the firearm accessories they have. 

  Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

32 round AR 15 magazine

Target Market:

Anyone wanting an extra 2 rounds in their standard capacity AR magazine

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 32 round capacity

  • -223 Remington/5.56 NATO AR-15/M4/M16 compatible magazine

  • "AccuRamp" first round feed tray design

  • Anti-tilt follower

  • Enhanced geometry with anti-slip finger grooves

  • Magazine base shock cord channel to help provide additional retention

  • Lightweight high-strength polymer

  • Tool-less disassembly of magazine

  • Made in the U.S.A.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

10 round version for restrictive states

What others are saying?:

Nothing as of this review

Link to other reviews:

None found

Price point:

MSRP = $16.95

Retail = $15.95 at Primary Arms

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms or Strike Industries

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Capacity

  • Shock cord channel

  • Functions as expected - very well

  • Designed with over insertion protection

Cons:

  • A little longer than a standard 30rd magazine

Score: 8.50 Great

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Favorite Link:  Matador Arms

Nightstick LGL-170 Weapon Light

  If you are into any type of self defense long gun, then you could probably use a weapon mounted light. Nightstick, a division of Bayco products, has brought out some nice lights in this category. One of those lights is the LGL-170. This is their top tier weapon mounted light, coming in at 1500 lumens.

  Now I know that you just can’t judge a light on Lumens alone. You need the Candela rating also. Well the LGL-170 produces 23,148 candela. In easy to understand terms, the lower the candela rating, the more “flood” like the beam output will be. The higher the candela, the more “spot” like the beam will be. At 23,000 candela, I found the Nightstick to be a good combination of the two. It produces a wider beam then some other weapon lights on the market, but yet still gives plenty of throw to see down range. Nightstick rates it at a 304 meter beam distance. All I know is that I can make out targets at 200 yards with the naked eye, in essentially complete darkness. This also translates into being able to see “threats” out to 200 yards.

Closest target stand is 50 yds, next is 100, and farthest is 200 yds

Steel gong and swinger rack (slightly left of center) is at 200 yds. Click image to make larger

  Nightstick includes everything needed to get started with the light. In the box are 2, yes 2, 3400mah 18650 rechargeable batteries, with a charger of course. Standard and off-set picatinny mounts. An optional 6” cabled pressure remote pad, with an on/off button. The pad can be used with a supplied hook & loop, or a slide in, picatinny rail adapter. Also for the pressure switch, is a wire management picatinny clamp. Nightstick also makes a low profile angled mount adapter for KeyMod or M-lok. I used the M-lok one to mount the light closer in toward the handguard. This makes it easy to use, with just my thumb, for activation. I thought the cable management clamp was a nice added benefit to the package, even though I ended up not using it.

   In the standard configuration, the LGL-170 is your basic weapon light. The tail switch is pressed slightly to use the momentary on function. Or pressed completely to turn it on or off. There is a nice positive click when turning it on or off. One feature I really like in a weapon light, is full lumens all the time. No strobe, or low power to get me distracted under stress. The LGL-170 does this. It’s either on or off, nothing else, always at full power. 

  Since most of the features are listed below, I won’t go over most of them here. But, there are a couple I am going to mention. Having a way to use another power source is always a good idea. So Nightstick made the LGL able to use 2 CR123 batteries as an option. The output is cut down to 1200 lumens, but it’s way better than zero! Plus, you probably have some rolling around in your range bag, at least I do. The next feature is the light’s weight. It comes in at 7.5 ounces with the battery. It’s a little heavier, by 0.5 ounces, than some other lights, but that’s not a deal breaker. When you have a light mounted on the end of a rifle, it makes the rifle swing differently from target to target. Something I noticed when moving the rifle. Also, you just added a ½ lb to that lightweight rifle. But in this case, I’d rather have the ½ lb and be able to see my targets.

  As with most products, there always has to be something questionable. The only part I really don’t like about the light kit is the picatinny switch mount. This picatinny mount, for the pressure switch, is a clip on a piece of plastic. You then slide the pressure switch into this mount. The part that mounts to the rail actually holds on okay, but could be torn off under extreme use. But even worse, is that the pressure switch just slides into the rail adapter, and doesn’t stay. Yes, I know that I could use glue or hook & loop to fix this, but it was kind of annoying. On the other hand, the pressure switch, itself, is awesome.

After a couple months of use, I ran into a problem. The light was not staying bright. After 45 seconds of being on, the output had dwindled down to almost nothing. Cycle the switch, and it would get real bright and then dim down in a minute again. I contacted Nightstick and they immediately sent a new light kit. Yes they sent the whole kit and told me to only return the light and the pressure switch. So I gained two 18650 batteries and a charger in the deal. When I asked them what had happened to the light, they said it had a programming error and were very thankful for me in helping them find the problem. Every company has something go wrong from time to time, I suspect mine was a one off problem, knowing that they have these lights in many law enforcement departments and that they have been tested by those departments. How they react to the problems is what really counts. So far, the new light is working as expected. If anything goes wrong again, I’ll update this review.

  The “unrated” light output is what really shines. In my house, bouncing the light off of the hardwood floor, will literally let you see everything in the living room and kitchen, with ease. Anything you directly point the light at, is bright as day. Real world use, I did get the 1.5 hours of constant on run time. I didn’t expect the full run time at highest output, but I was pleased with how long the light was bright for. In fact, even when it nears the auto shut off from low power, the brightness was still real bright. I’d guess somewhere in the 1000 lumen range.

  I can say that the Nightstick LGL-170 is a useful weapon light. It’s bright. The battery lasts a decent time and it comes with everything that you might need to attach it to your weapon of choice. I have some other Nightstick products. This LGL-170 is right up there in quality and function. If you are in the market for a weapon light or something else, that lights up your world, go check out the Nightstick line of lights.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

1500 lumen LED weapon light

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a bright, decent weapon light for their rifle or shotgun

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 1500 Lumen output for 1.5 hours

  • 23.148 Candela

  • Length: 5.5 in (140 mm)

  • Width: 0.9 in (23 mm)

  • Weight: 7.5 oz (213 g)

  • Diameter: 0.9 in (23 mm)

  • Head Diameter: 1.5 in (38 mm)

  • Tail cap and 6" Remote Pressure Switch included

  • Momentary or constant-on function

  • Standard and offset Picatinny rail mounts

  • Sharp focused beam for distance illumination

  • 6061-T6 aluminum housing w/Black type III hard-anodized finish

  • Beam distance rated at 304 meters

  • IP-X7 Waterproof

  • Impact & chemical resistant

  • Serialized for personal identification

  • (2) 18650 batteries, single charger and 2' USB cable (included)

  • Will work with 2-CR123 batteries - output reduced to 1200 lumens and 21,278 candela

  • Lifetime Warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

None

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars on Optics Planet

Very well made light

The light is well made and super bright with no strobe function though ...also the mounts are very solid and screws come with thread locker applied which is a nice touch and shows some forward thinking by the manufacturer.

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found at the time of this writing

Price point:

MSRP = $249.00

Angle mount = $24.00

Retail = $199.45 at Optics Planet

I need it now! Availability:

Optics Planet or other online retailers

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Everything is included

  • Bright

  • Real nice pressure switch

  • Run Time

  • Customer Service

Cons:

  • Candela output

  • Mount for pressure switch

  • Weight

Score: 7.00 Good

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Favorite Link:   Atibal optics





Buck 110 & Slim Pro

By: Rusty Odom

THE BUCK 110 original and SLIM PRO

This review is about the Buck 110 Slim Pro folding lock back pocket knife. As a young kid growing up in Tennessee, carrying a pocket knife was second nature. I can remember at an early age, maybe 6 or 7, having a classic Buck 110 with the ebony handles, classic brass bolster, solid lockup and unlock of the thumb button. I don’t know what I ever did with that particular knife but I wish I had it now. I can remember the heft it had in the pocket of my husky corduroy jeans. Many children nowadays will not remember those jeans, the ones that built up static electricity when you walked and your thighs rubbed together. You know the ones, they had double layered knees that would never wear out, even if you were dragged behind your dad’s pickup truck. Now back to the knife, the Buck, the heavy weight, built like a tank, you could dig with it, hammer with it, pry with it, but it was made to cut. I wouldn't suggest doing any of the other things listed besides cutting, but man what a knife. I don't know where mine came from or even what it cost at the time, but it was worth a fortune in my eyes as a kid.

The 110 was designed in 1963 by Al Buck, for sportsmans looking for a sturdy folding knife, for those that did not want to carry a fixed blade. This model knife has been the number one selling knife in the world since it was first marketed, something has to be said about a design that has lasted almost 60 years.

The lockback mechanism is that works off of a rocking bar that locks against the blade when opened all the way. I have cut myself more than once with a folding knife that didn’t have a locking blade because i was not using it the right way.

The original 110:

Closed length 4 ⅞” long

Blade length 3 ¾” long

Blade thickness 0.120 (almost ⅛”)

Weight 7.2 oz

Blade material is 420 HC (high carbon stainless steel)

Ebony handles

Brass bolster

Black leather belt sheath

Price $55 to $79

Now to the new era of the Buck 110, the Slim Pro Series:

The 110 Slim Pro is an improvement on the original 110, in my opinion it is a EDC gentleman's knife. It has all the traditional features of the original but as the name states, it is slimmer, comes with a decent deep pocket clip and a thumb stud. The pocket clip is also reversible for the lefties out there. The blade is S30V stainless, which has better edge retention, hardness and corrosion resistance then the original 420. Now both are great blades, the 420 material has been and is still being used on all major brands of knives. (https://knifeinformer.com/discovering-the-best-knife-steel/) I inserted a link if anyone is interested in reading over the specs of the different knife blade materials. To the common person it might as well be Greek unless you have some kind of metal working or metallurgy background. I myself used to be a machinist in my younger days so I understand it somewhat.

The 110 Slim Pro:

Overall length 8.625” (8 ⅝”)

Closed length 4.875 (4 ⅞”)

Blade thickness .0120”

Weight 3.4oz (almost 4 ounces lighter than the original 110)

Handles are Micarta or G10 material

Pocket Clip

One hand opening with thumb stud

Price $94.00

So to compare these two knives almost seems like comparing apples and oranges as the old saying goes. But I can tell you I have been carrying both knives on my person for several months. I have been cutting various items like cardboard, rope, myself, and then and I mean then I had the perfect time to test them out. A coworker of mine was running emergency traffic while driving an ambulance, when a nice buck stepped out in front of her. I received a phone call around 8:30 PM telling me she had just had an accident in the ambulance and hit a deer. So the first thing that came to my mind was, is the deer salvageable. I can see where everyone is going with that statement I just made. But deer meat to me is like caviar to a Russian. I knew she had to be okay because she was calling me. I wasn’t that uncaring, I knew where the conversion was going to go anyway so I just brought it up first. So after getting the general location of the accident, loading up my Plott hound to track it, my 7 year old son and my 13 year old daughter, we were off. As soon as we located the deer about 100 yards off the roadway, I realized the only knife I had on me was the 110 Slim. So after doing a pretty good trauma assessment and realizing it looked pretty good, it was time to go to work. The knife cut through the hide like butter, all the good stuff came out intact which made me feel good about the meat. After getting it hung up on the kids swing set I let it hang over night and gathered the tools of the trade for the next morning's work. I almost started out with my Cutco hunting knife that I have been using for over a decade but decided to use the Bucks. (How Ironic) I skinned the entire deer with the Slim Pro and it was still pretty dang sharp after that chore. I then swapped to the original 110 and went to town disassembling the various quarters of meat. I did notice that the handles on the original got pretty slick with bloody hands and I lost my grip on the handle a few times. I took the Slim pro and hit the blade on an Arkansas stone to straighten the edge up and went back to cutting meat. With the Slim being a good bit lighter and of course slimmer I had less hand fatigue. The micarta handles gave a more secure purchase with wet hands. After all of the processing was done I went to the cutting board and started cutting up jerky strips, round steak, tenderloins, backstrap etc with both blades. I really liked the weight of the original while making cuts through bigger pieces and the Slim Pro for the more delicate cuts. They both performed great and honestly I couldn't tell a difference in the material that the blades were made out of, I think it all comes down to personal preference to which knife you want to use.

Now as an EDC knife I have to take the Slim Pro, the pocket clip, the knife being lighter and thinner gives it a huge plus in my book. The original comes with a black leather belt sheath to tote it in or you can put it in your front pocket. I have carried it both ways and I am not a fan of having it jumping around in my pocket, it seems to bind up and just uncomfortable to me. I don't mind the belt sheath, but sometimes I have a lot of stuff already attached to my belt and the weight difference between the two and not having a pocket clip, it loses an advantage to me. So this all goes back to what you are going to do with the knives, how you are going to carry them and what your primary use is.

I have to say that I have really enjoyed carrying the 110 Slim Pro for months now, it was razor sharp out of the box, I love how it sets deep into my pocket and the clip is secure. It is a little stiff to open unlike some of the tactical folders I have and on the market, but it is not a tactical knife. This jewel is an EDC that you can open with one hand, it will cut as good or better than other knives on the market in its price range. It still holds that classic original clip point blade with a solid lockup that Al intended with the first model back in 1963. I consider this a blade of all occasions, a do most blade, a gentleman's knife that doesn't mind getting dirty and putting in a hard day's work. If you want to know the best part about both of these knives are? They both are 100% American made with a lifetime warranty. So you choose which one you want, you won’t go wrong either way.

Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame

  • Best selling knife since 1963

  • American made

  • Classic Style

  • Sharp

Target Market:

  • Dedicated knife people

  • Hunters

  • EDC

  • Those who like quality

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product): 

See above in review section

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

  • Different material for handles

  • Aftermarket sheaths for belt carry (cross draw)

  • Stainless Bolster for original 

What others are saying?:

One knife for a lifetime.

Beautiful classic, very sharp.

Great knife, all American made

Price point:

MSRP:

110 Hunter - $55.00 - $79.00

Slim Pro - $94.00

Retail:

110 Hunter - $44.99

Slim Pro - $89.99

I need it now! Availability:

Buck Knives

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • American made

  • Sharp

  • Great construction

  • Good quality for the money.

Cons:

  • Might be a little bulky

  • One blade style for both knives

  • Original handles are slippery to hold when wet

Score: 8.00 Great 

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Hawke Optics Endurance red dot

 If you didn’t know, I am a big fan of red dots on carbines. So every chance I get, I like to try out new ones. This leads us to the new Endurance line of red dots from Hawke Optics. Particularly the 1x25 version. 

  Hawke Optics recently introduced the Endurance line of red dots. They are aimed more at the AR/MSR/Sporting Carbine market. I say this because they have many options one would want for these applications, at least in my opinion. I’ll be talking about the 1x25, which is the smaller version of the Endurance, as they also offer a 1x30. Both versions have a 3 MOA dot size.

  The Endurance red dot has a nice compact size. You can read the dimensions below in the FNB’s. However, it is very light at 6.5 ounces, so it adds very little to the weight of the rifle. Because it is small, it is very unobtrusive. This makes it very nice for moving around obstacles, may they be walls, trees, or anything else you might bump up against. 

  This little red dot has 8 brightness settings. Utilized by using the “+” or “-” buttons on the top of the optic. The brightest setting is plenty bright outside in the sun, or when using the red dot with an artificial light source (flashlight). You can also hold down either of the buttons to turn it off. Or hit either one to turn it back on. However, I don’t use the on/off function. This is because the Endurance has an auto off, auto on function that works fantastic. After sitting still for 5 minutes, the optic turns the dot off. Yes, I sat there for 5 minutes and watched it turn off. Then when you move the optic, it turns back on. It even turned back on after sitting in my safe for 2 weeks with no use! The auto on/off function is my favorite feature of the Endurance red dot. 

  Some might say that having a 25mm objective lens is too small. I actually appreciate the smaller window on this optic. I am still able to pick the dot up extremely fast without “searching” for it. The 3 MOA dot might help with the fast acquisition. I would like to see a smaller dot size for more accurate work, but the Endurance doesn’t fall into the “Duty” category for me. It is, however, great for range and hunting use. 

Adjustment of the red dot is pretty straight forward. It has covered windage and elevation knobs. Unscrew them, and underneath is a nice little click adjustment dial. No having to use a coin or a screwdriver here. They are 1 MOA adjustments per click. The clicks are pretty good. You can hear them and feel them. Just like you would want. I liked the fact that they were finger adjustable.

  Another reason I put the Endurance red dot in the range/hunting use, is the battery life. Even though it turns itself off after use, it only has a 22 hour run time when on the max brightness setting. Of course, this increases to 190 hours on the medium setting. Which is a good actual use setting for this red dot. The low setting gives 2200 hours, but unless it’s pretty dark, there is not much use for this setting. Standby time, when using the auto on feature, is 10,000+ hours, so no need to worry about that. 

  The Endurance comes with 2 mounts. A low mount, and a quick release high mount. The high mount is for AR style carbines, and puts the red dot at the proper height for these rifles. As mentioned, it is a quick release high mount. When I first received the red dot, the quick release would not clamp on to the mounting rail, ugh. I had to take it apart and cut the screw shorter, then it clamped on just fine. The mount did loosen up after essentially throwing the rifle on the ground, but that could happen with other mounts also.

  I drop tested the Endurance red dot. Watch the quick video. It survived nicely. No loss of zero and only a few minor dings from the rocks. The quick mount did loosen up after the second drop. This didn’t surprise me, I just turned the adjustment screw, on the quick mount, in a ½ turn and I was off to the races again. 

  The actual dot is very clear for me. I do have an astigmatism, so most dots appear “starry”. The Endurance’s dot is actually clearer than some of my other red dots. I don’t know if it is because of the coatings that Hawke uses, or if it’s just me. Looking through the Endurance is also very clear. The glass doesn’t seem to distort the color spectrum like some red dots do. I didn’t even notice any weird reflections or halo’s. 

  The Hawke Endurance red dot works well. I really like how durable it is. It’s super clear. My only wishes would be a smaller dot and more battery life. Everything else, on this little red dot, is top notch. It would be perfect for a .22lr or Pistol caliber carbine. If you're in the market for a reasonably priced, almost indestructible, red dot, go give the Hawke Optics Endurance line a look. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Small Red dot optic with auto on/off

Target Market:

Those wanting a red dot sighting option

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 3 MOA Red Dot Reticle

  • 8 Digital Brightness Settings

  • Uses  1 - CR2032 battery

  • 5 minute auto off if no movement

  • Auto on when movement is detected

  • 25mm Objective lens

  • Rubber lens cover included

  • 25-Layer Anti-Reflection Multi Coated lenses

  • 1 MOA windage and elevation adjustments

  • Anodized Aluminum Housing

  • Nitrogen-Filled, Water and Fogproof

  • Quick Release Weaver / Picatinny “high” Rail Mount

  • Low and High Mounts included

  • Weighs 6.5-ounces

  • 2.8” long

  • 2.2” tall with low mount

  • 2.8” tall with high mount

  • 1.7” wide

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Larger 1x30

What others are saying?:

Nothing found

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found

Price point:

MSRP = $189.00

Retail = $169.99 at Optics Planet or B&H Photo

I need it now! Availability:

Hawke Optics or Optics Planet

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Auto on

  • Durable

  • Physical Size

  • Weight

Cons:

  • Battery Life

  • Mounting base

Score: 7.00 Good - for the Red Dot

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            5.50 Mediocre - for the included quick detach mount

Favorite Link:  Firearms Insider affiliates   


Rough Cut Holsters RHAEGAL IWB

  Anyone that carries a pistol, should have a good holster. It doesn’t matter if you conceal carry, or just open carry. The point is, everyone needs a holster. This brings us to Rough Cut Holsters. They sent me one of their Rhaegal inside the waistband (IWB) holsters, with a few asked for modifications. This holster is nicer than I was expecting.

  The Rhaegal holster is one of Rough Cut’s IWB holsters. This particular one is for a Kahr CM9. They make this holster for a number of common pistols like Glocks, Sigs, Smith & Wessons, etc. The Rhaegal is a taco style holster. Meaning that it is one piece of kydex wrapped around the firearm. It’s a common type of IWB holster, especially for concealed carry.

  I asked for some options on this holster. One of them was a small “claw”. It adds like $5 to the price. But I really wanted to see if the claw would help conceal the small pistol better. Rough Cut told me it probably wouldn’t, and guess what? The holster maker was correct. The point is, they will let you do options, even if it doesn’t make much sense.

  Rough Cut also has various pattern and color options for their holsters. As we know, everyone likes to somewhat personalize their gear. I opted for a zombie green topo kydex with zombie green washers. It’s an IWB so nobody really sees it anyways. But if you want options, they can give you options. They also will do custom holsters. If they don’t have your firearm, they have some options for that also. 

  There are many great features to the Rhaegal holster:

 First up, it comes standard with the Discreet Carry Concepts (DCC) monoblock clip. This is the clip that attaches it to your belt, and the DCC is the best in my opinion. You can wear the holster straight up and down, or adjust the DCC clip to give you a 20 degree cant. Both holes are pre-drilled in the holster. I use the 20 degree cant as I feel it hides the butt of the pistol better. With this clip, the Rhaegal holster doesn’t move at all on my belt, it just stays where I put it! There is also an option for belt loops, if that’s what you like. I did ask for them to include holes to mount an UltiClip or another type of DCC clip, Rough cut supplied the extra holes. I did try it out using a single DCC clip and it works fine. This actually made the holster ride farther down the waist, and helped conceal the holster a tad bit better. It does make it slightly harder to get a good grip when drawing the pistol. So I went back to the way the Rhaegal came. But if you need ultimate discrete carry, that may be the way to go.

  Next up, is the quality. For the price you pay, I have never had a holster with as much attention to detail put into it. The Rhaegal is made from 0.080” thick kydex or boltaron. The thickness keeps the holster stable when drawing or reholstering. It also gives the pistol a positive “click” when holstering or when drawing the firearm out of the holster. The Rhaegal’s design gives it an undercut trigger guard feature. This undercut makes it easier to get a full grip, on the pistol, when drawing. But yet it still covers the trigger guard completely. The edges on the holster are the smoothest I have seen. Rough Cut explained how they do this. All I heard was, “lots of time is taken to do this”. The Rhaegal also came in a nice little cotton bag, just another little touch that Rough Cut adds in.

  Last up, is retention. I already mentioned the “click” when holstering and unholstering. But you also get adjustable retention. The 2 screws, in front of the trigger guard area, can be tightened or loosened to your liking. I have mine set somewhere in between tight and loose. I still get really good retention, in fact, if I hold the holster and shake it, the pistol stays in the holster. But yet it still has a really smooth draw to it.

  I literally have been wearing the Rhaegal everyday since it arrived. It took about a week for me to get used to it. It just rode in a different spot than my previous holster. After that initial week, I don’t even know I am wearing it. I wear it at 3 O’clock, but it can also be worn appendix also. Practice draws are way smoother than my previous holster. Reholstering is also super smooth. I have lots of practice draws with it, they are just as smooth today as when I first received the holster. The Rhaegal’s high sweat guard is rounded in a way that I do not notice it pushing on my side. This is a big plus, as I shy away from high sweat guards because I have not had good luck with them in the past. It is hard to put into words how well this holster carries and works. So you’ll actually have to trust me on this, it just does everything one would want a quality holster to do.

  One of the reasons to get an IWB holster is concealment. Well, since I am using a small pistol, the Rhaegal/pistol combo just disappears. I literally can wear this combo with shorts and a T-shirt. The comfort also helps. Since the combo is small and uses a DCC clip, I can wear it without a belt. I don’t recommend this, but I have done it without feeling like my holster was going to fall out/off. 

  Rough Cut Holsters did a great job with the Rhaegal. They make a bunch of other holster styles also. So if this little IWB rig isn’t what you want, well, they probably have you covered with something else. Their prices are very reasonable, especially when you see the quality you are getting. So far in my review career, this is the first holster company that I will be buying another holster from. So if that doesn't tell you how I feel about Rough Cut Holsters, I don’t know what will. Definitely go check out Rough Cut Holsters, and maybe tell them we sent you over.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quality Kydex Inside the Waistband holster

Target Market:

Concealed Carry

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 0-20 degree adjustable cant  

  • Positive “CLICK” when holstering

  • Undercut Trigger Guard

  • Over-cut Open-face to Accommodate Threaded Barrels 

  • Accommodates Suppressor Height Sights 

  • Full Length Sweat Guard  Standard, others lengths are optional

  • .08 Kydex or .08 Boltaron

  • Multiple clip styles available

  • Optional patterns or colors

  • Optional optic cut

  • 100% Made in USA

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Plenty, check out here - https://roughcutholsters.com/

What others are saying?:

Jesus A.  5 stars on https://roughcutholsters.com/

Best holsters

Had a hard time finding holsters to fit my P80. These are perfect.

Link to other reviews:

None found

Price point:

MSRP = $45.00

Retail as tested = $63.00 

  • $13.00 for graphics

  • $5.00 for “claw”

I need it now! Availability:

Rough Cut Holsters

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Price

  • 0.080” Kydex

  • Super smooth edges

  • Great retention

  • Straight or 20 degree cant

  • DCC clip comes standard

Cons:

  • Pistol selection is limited for now

Score: 8.50 Great

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Favorite Link:  Firearms Insider affiliates   

Mantis Blackbeard

  Right now, ammunition is hard to find. So training isn’t as easy. Especially with an AR style rifle. Mantis has helped to solve this problem with the Blackbeard. The Blackbeard is a drop in, dry fire, training system for your AR15. Most notably, is its ability to reset your firearms trigger.

  We all need a good dry fire training system. The Mantis Blackbeard is just that, at least in my opinion. What stands the Blackbeard out above other systems? You get to use all of your firearms systems. No changing the trigger, sights, safety, etc. Yes, you get to use your trigger and sight system. The Blackbeard comes with a drop in bolt assembly. Just remove your bolt and drop the Blackbeard’s in. Then charge the Blackbeard’s battery, which is in the shape of a 20 round magazine. Insert the battery like a normal magazine, and now you are ready to start training.

Target is 4” x 7”, rifle was around 3’ away for picture

  The Blackbeard I received, has a green laser. Mantis also has options for no laser, red laser, and an IR laser. I opted for green because I use red dot sights. That way I can see where I am hitting without confusing it as the red dot. Green also can be seen in bright light better. All the laser ones essentially work the same way. When you pull the trigger, a laser is emitted out of the barrel for a split second, 60ms to be exact. It is long enough for you to see where you have essentially “hit”. There is also a switch to turn the laser on all the time. This is for sighting the laser to your rifle. Or if you want to use the system like a laser bore sighting system. I also found that having a laser system allows you to use other laser training apps, on your phone or virtual training systems. There is also the non laser system, which only resets the trigger. I would pay the $20 more and get the red laser over the non laser.

  Battery life on the Blackbeard is fantastic. Charging is done through a micro-usb and takes some time to fully charge. At first I was trying to see how many trigger pulls I could get out of a charge. A week later I gave up. There are 5 LED’s on the battery to let you know how charged it is. Just push a little button/flap on the side and they light up. The battery also has some weight to it, about half of what a loaded 30rd AR mag weighs. It still helps to mimic the weight of a loaded magazine. The battery weight helps the rifle swing more like it would at the range or in a real life scenario.

  Since the Blackbeard comes from Mantis, it can be used with their other systems. If you happen to have any of the Mantis “X” series, it will integrate into these systems to give you all of the same information as usual. I didn’t have good luck with using my Mantis X10 along with the Blackbeard. I just couldn’t seem to get decent readings from the X10. The X10 would read the trigger reset, not the hammer fall. My guess was because the hammer doesn’t actually fall the full distance when using the Blackbeard. The Mantis X10 works great by itself, as does the Blackbeard.

  Something worth pointing out, the trigger reset is fast. Mantis says you can get 10 shots per second out of the mantis. That’s 0.10 second split times. I couldn’t override the Blackbeard’s trigger reset, but I am sure there is someone out there that can. 

  I used the Blackbeard in a variety of AR15’s. It worked in all of them. Everyone of them has a different trigger. The Blackbeard didn’t seem to care whose trigger it was, from mil-spec to a 1.5lb aftermarket. Besides the benefits of the Blackbeard being a dryfire system, It really shines in the ability to use all of your own personal hardware. Mechanical offset is noticeable with the Blackbeard. This gives you the ability to train it also. Because the laser shines out of the barrel, it is seen below your sighting system at short ranges. Just like in real life. So now you can practice sight holdovers, at close range, in your house. 

  The other thing I did with the Blackbeard was set up some training apps on my phone. These are the type that you set your phone up and it reads the laser on the target. The Blackbeard integrated into these also. Now I could see group sizes. These are just another way to help use the Blackbeard in your dry fire training.

  I have nothing but good things to say about the Mantis Blackbeard system. It is really a great training aid. I have had zero problems with it. It pretty much has a permanent home in one of my AR’s. The ability to use all of your personal hardware, and have trigger reset, is what it is all about. Definitely go check out the Blackbeard and Mantis. They really do make great training tools.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

AR15 laser training aid

Target Market:

Those wanting a dryfire rifle training system

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Drop in system for AR15

  • With or without Laser

  • Uses everything on your AR - sight, trigger, etc

  • Rechargeable battery that goes into the magwell

  • Red in color - so you know the firearm isn’t loaded

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Without Laser, Red Laser, or IR Laser

What others are saying?:

Rob D - 5 stars at https://mantisx.com/products/blackbeard-the-auto-resetting-trigger-for-ar-15

I had a minor issue with my Mantis Blackbeard, it worked great and then it locked up. I contacted customer service, Marcus was amazing and they replaced the unit in two days! The sign of a great company is not how they react when things go well. It's how they react when it doesn't.

This product is brand new and as such there will be teething pains. In my case it looked like a screw came loose.

The new unit runs fantastic and is very fast, I believe the company when they say it will cycle 10 shots per second. Great piece of gear for laser training apps / simulators. Perfect for today's ammo prices. I train in my house instead.

Link to other reviews:

Defenders And Disciples

Price point:

MSRP = $199.00 to $249.00

Retail = Same as MSRP

I need it now! Availability:

Mantis

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Uses your AR15 system

  • Drop-in

  • Laser for use with other training systems

  • Battery life

  • Trigger reset time

Cons:

  • Doesn’t interface very well with Mantis X system

  • No recoil

Score: 9.00 Amazing

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Stoeger Condor Field Over/Under 12 Gauge Shotgun

By Rusty Odom

  This is my review on the Stoeger Condor Over/Under Field grade shotgun in 12 gauge. First of all I am not a connoisseur of shotguns, I have your typical Remington 870, 887 Nitro mag, old Ithaca model 37, Mossberg 500, a few Mossberg clones like the Maverick and one made by them for Western Auto. These are all pump guns and of course I have a handful of NEF and H&R single shots break actions in various gauges. Even with all of these shotguns I might run 5 boxes of shells a year during hunting season and to let the kids bust bottles or whatever. I have in the past, way long ago, taken a tactical shotgun class, but I am sure those skills have diminished since. I really haven't practiced them in over 20 years. Most of my time on the Ole scatter gun is during early squirrel season, Turkey season and maybe a deer or hog hunt. 

  I am not a clay shooter nor a 3 gunner, so when I decided to buy a new shotgun, I wanted something that was versatile, dependable, won't break the bank and had a somewhat good lineage behind it. I like to buy guns that are dependable and not break the bank, ease of use and still have a little classic style about them. So while I was surfing the internet I ran across this one at Bass Pro Shops. The price of the shotgun at $399 is what really caught my eye as well as the American walnut stock. So with everything that I buy, I dive deep into doing my research and find reviews and or a better price. What I found out was what really surprised me the most is that Stoger is a subsidiary of Benelli and they are owned by Beretta. Stoeger also serves as an FFL for importing Uberti firearms which are a part of the Benelli/Beretta group. So at the price and the lineage that its Italian grandfather shotguns have, I figured this Brazilian shotgun had to be alright. 

  Upon purchasing the Shotgun I was not disappointed at all. It came in the normal cardboard box and upon opening it there was a plastic case that had the shotgun in it, broken down into two pieces. It is not a case that is lockable but it does a good job of storing the shotgun. What is included in the box is the gun itself, instruction manual and trigger lock. The bright walnut shine on the stock and forearm were remarkable, the recoil pad is average, the receiver is a great high blue polish. Everything had nice machined surfaces and the 28” vent rib barrel gave it a nice look with a pretty brass bead on top. The chokes that came with an installed IC and M, choke wrench tool included. The trigger on the Condor is a single trigger that switches between the top to bottom barrel after firing. It has auto extractors that do a nice job of displacing the shells when you break the action open. One thing I did notice is that the shotgun is heavy, but compared to other shotguns in the over/under class, it is close to the same weight. It weighs right around the 7 ½ pound mark on my scales. With a good sling for carrying it in the field you wouldn't be able to tell the difference in your favorite deer rifle on your back I wish I could talk to you about comb height or stock drop, but I don't have that lingo or expertise with shotguns. So what I can say, it feels good.

  When I started shooting this shotgun it was about the time that the “C one niner” ammo shortage started. I was lucky to buy 9 or 10 cases of various shotgun shells for the reason of stocking up, and who knows when other ammunition is going to be available. I started out shooting with Federal 2 3/4 “ #7 shot. I was just busting clays that were being thrown by hand. The shotgun swung well, the triggers took a bit to get used to. I think it was because I am not used to shooting an over/under. For some reason I wanted to try and pump it. This is just getting used to the manual of arms. I ran through a 100 rounds or so before I felt like I had the manual of arms down. For giggles I swapped over to S&B buckshot, this was fun, I was shooting from the low ready position and firing at targets 7 to 15 yards away. With the length of the barrel I wouldn't say it is the best home defense shotgun, but it will do in a pinch. I even took a few boxes of Federal 2 ¾ “ slugs to the range. I was hitting gallon size jugs at 50 yards with them. The gun, with its heft, will manage all types of ammunition with the proper choke tubes. Patterning of the shotgun showed that the barrels were pretty much the same. While shooting slugs they were close to a minute of deer at 50 yards. I was free hand shooting it with slugs, so I really didn't put the calipers on the target. I figured if I could see a hole I was ok. I recently took this shotgun hunting on a bear and boar hunt. While I didn’t kill anything with it, the shotgun was easy to manage. I found it very convenient, while getting in and out of the truck all day chasing dogs, to unload and load. 

  I would recommend  this shotgun to anyone that is looking for a budget priced shotgun, it can do most anything out there. You can take it to the range and shoot clays or trap, go on a squirrel hunt, or hunt birds of all types. If you are like me, and believe that a firearm is just another tool in your toolbox, you can use this shotgun to hunt deer, bear or hog. It might not be ideal for all of them, but it will work. Being that in the name it says “field”, I will take it to the field any chance I can get. If you are looking for something different , they also have it in a tactical model with a synthetic stock, and the ability to attach a red dot sight. They offer numerous models starting at $449 and up. So if you're looking for that nice looking do all shotgun, that sets it apart from the typical,  this is your gun. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Low priced Over/Under Field shotgun

Target Market:

The average shotgun owner needing an all purpose shotgun

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 12 gauge

  • 2-3/4 “ and 3” shells

  • 28” barrels

  • Overall length - 44”

  • Weight - 7.4 lbs

  • Comes with IC and M chokes

  • Vent Rib

  • Great fit and finish

  • Price $399

  • Sturdy built

  • Reliable

  • Classic Satin Walnut Stock

  • Classic brass bead sight

  • Nice blue color

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

12 gauge w/26” barrels,

20, 28, and .410 gauge

Link to other reviews:

Southern Extreme T.V.

Shooting & Safety

Price point:

MSRP = $449.00

Retail = $399

I need it now! Availability:

Bass Pro or Sportsman’s if anyone has any

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Reliability

  • Classic lines

  • Feels good while shooting

  • Swings well

Cons:

  • It is out of stock at this time 

  • It is a little heavy

Score: 8.00 Amazing

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