Walker Defense Titanium BCG

  Titanium bolt carrier groups (BCG) are one of the mysteries of the AR world. A few companies manufacture them, but what are they really for? I’ll try to answer that with the Walker Defense Research Titanium BCG.

  If you are looking at a Titanium (Ti) BCG, like the Walker Defense one, it is probably because of weight. Meaning you are trying to get the lightest possible parts around. The Walker Ti BCG weighs 7.8 ounces complete. A standard BCG weighs 11.8 ounces on my scale. That’s an off the shelf weight saving of 4 ounces. I know, that doesn’t seem like a lot, but when every ounce counts, that's a bunch. An important note is that the bolt is not titanium, it is 9130 steel with a Nickel Boron coating. The bolt is also magnetic partical inspected (MPI). A Ti bolt just doesn’t have the correct metallurgy to work, but for the carrier, it’s great. The Ti carrier, without the bolt, only weighs 5.7 ounces. 

  The Walker Defense Ti BCG is of the standard M16 profile. This is done so that it will work in almost every scenario, except piston guns. It is for direct impingement AR’s only. The M16 profile also gives the BCG strength and reliability. Cutting away material can weaken a BCG or make it not function correctly. Walker makes the BCG out of 6AL-4V grade 5 titanium. This even goes above my material knowledge, but I bet that they know what they are doing, especially since this titanium seems to be the standard for Ti BCG’s. An Ionbond Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) is then put on the carrier. This DLC coating gives the BCG a longer lifespan and makes it super smooth. Of course you need excellent machining to have a smooth coating, and the Walker Defense BCG definitely is machined super smooth. 

  Another reason for choosing a titanium BCG is for reduced recoil. The Ti BCG reduces recoil because there is less moving mass. This does come at a price. One also needs an adjustable gas block. This is a must for any lightweight BCG, not just the Walker Ti one. Then you have to tune the adjustable gas block. Good ones come with instructions on how to do this. Some might say that you can “tune” the Ti BCG by using heavier buffers and stuff. But a heavier buffer just adds more weight and more recoil. Isn’t one reason you would choose a Ti bcg is for weight? I can attest to the lower recoil of the Ti BCG. I have a Superlative arms adjustable gas block, tuned to eject the brass at about 3:30. According to the Mantis x, it reduced muzzle rise by over 50% and recoil width by over 80%. You can see in the short video that even with an A2 flash hider, there is hardly any recoil or muzzle climb. I could definitely feel the difference. 

  I was a little hesitant to try the Walker titanium BCG out. I just didn’t understand why I needed it. After using it thoroughly for some time, I can say it definitely makes the AR shoot so much smoother. All the claims are correct. Reduced muzzle rise. Reduced felt recoil. Faster follow up shots, due to those previously mentioned reductions. Yes, the BCG price can make you gasp a little. But in the end, it’s not much more expensive, if any, than other low mass BCG’s. Even some enhanced BCG’s are in the $250 range. The Walker Ti BCG also has forward assist notches, something a lot of the other lightweight carriers don’t have. For me, I just can’t get over how smooth the recoil impulse is with the Walker Ti BCG.

  Probably the last reason to choose Walker’s Ti BCG is durability. Titanium tends to be more resistant to heat and pressure. What do direct impingement guns have? Hot gasses being directly blown into the carrier. So anything that is more resistant to heat is a good thing. Walker also correctly stakes the gas key on, so it won’t be moving around causing problems. Just lube your Ti BCG as normal, and you should get a long life span from it. 

  The Walker Defense Titanium BCG does everything a BCG should do and more. The “more” is why I really like it. It’s lightweight, reduces recoil, is durable, and has a standard M16 profile. Hopefully you have a better understanding of why you would want the Walker Ti BCG. So if you want that “lightweight everything”, or just a super quality bolt carrier, head over to the Walker Defense Research website and give them a look. Everything I have from Walker is top notch and is always made in the USA.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Lightweight M16 FA Bolt Carrier Group

Target Market:

Lightweight builds, competition shooters, or anyone wanting a high quality BCG

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Compatibility: M16/ M4 / AR-15 Direct Gas Impingement (not for use in piston guns)

  • Calibers: 5.56x45mm NATO / .223 Remington / .300 AAC Blackout

  • Profile: Full Auto Style Carrier w/ Properly Staked Gas Key

  • Carrier Material: 6AL-4V (Grade 5) Titanium

  • Bolt Material: 9310 Steel

  • Carrier Coating: Ionbond DLC (Diamond Like Carbon)

  • Bolt Coating: Nickel Boron

  • Firing Pin: Steel w/ Chrome Finish

  • Made in the USA

  • Weight: Carrier-only (titanium): 5.7 oz, Total (Carrier, Bolt, firing pin, etc.): 7.8 oz

  • Adjustable gas block is highly recommended 

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Carrier only

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars at Walker Defense   

Surprisingly Good

When I decided to upgrade my mil-spec bolt carrier group ("BCG"), I did a lot of research. I found a review of the Walker Defense Research BCG on Pew Pew Tactical. I was impressed by the statistics . I there and when I went to the site, found the NERO, a three-d printed muzzle device. I was impressed by the willingness to explore new technologies. I bought both a NERO and this BCG. I have a JP captured spring and a Superlative Arms adjustable gas block. With the mil-spec BCG, I could only tune the rifle to 1.5 turns into bleed (22 clicks on the detentes). It was a good result. The Walker DR BCG allowed me to bleed off another 1.5 turns (28 clicks). Because of that, I have extremely little barrel movement and keep my targets well (understand that the NERO is not on this rifle so there is no effect--this is strictly the BCG. With less mass, there is less slam. Whenever I take it to the range, others notice the smoothness and my targets. I have offhanded 120 rounds at a session and it is only my wallet that caused me to hang it up in a session. Two other things to mention: 1) my clockworks stay noticeably cleaner because I am able to bleed off so much dirty gas; and 2) the coating quality goes all the way out to the edges. This second issue needs a bit more explanation. On the mil-spec BCG the edges wore nearly immediately. The quality of the finish is so good that the edges remain crisp at 1,250 rounds. I have no reservations about recommending this BCG. I would suggest that you take full advantage by getting an adjustable gas block as well. The two together really make the gun a sweet shooter. My sons have various ARs but they always find an excuse for shooting mine.

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found

Price point:

MSRP = $359.99

Retail = $306.00 with “INSIDER15” discount code

I need it now! Availability:

Walker Defense Research 

Use “INSIDER15” FOR 15% OFF

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Super lightweight

  • DLC coating on carrier

  • Nickel Boron coating on bolt

  • M16 Full Auto carrier specs

  • Super smooth operation

  • Less felt recoil

  • 100% Made in USA

Cons:

  • Price

  • Needs adjustable gas block

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link: JSD Supply  

Surefire X300 Turbo

By: Shan Hemphill

  Surefire is known for supplying quality, robust lights that are made in the USA, and supplies heavily to law enforcement agencies. Surefire products have a lifetime warranty, and there are many comments on the Internet about how Surefire has quickly resolved problems. Surefire is also known to be slow to release new lights, so their Turbo versions of the X300 and Scout have been heavily anticipated since their announcements at Shot Show 2022.

  I obtained 4 samples of the X300 Turbo, allowing me to gather data from multiple lights, then compare versus some of the best in the industry.

Specs:

Lumens: 650

Candela: 66,000

Runtime: 1.5 hours

Batteries 2x CR123A

Switches: Ambidextrous push (momentary) / toggle (constant)

Water Protection: IPX7

In the box:

  Inside the packaging is the light itself, 2 Surefire-branded 123A lithium batteries, instructions, and rail keys depending upon whether you’ve purchased the “A” or “B” version. The “A” version utilizes a spring rail key attachment system, and as a result, the box includes an extra spring rail and a tool to remove. The “B” version includes an extra rail key. Both also include a battery door pin to help keep the door from opening unexpectedly. 

  Fitup of either version is easy, but be aware that this is a large pistol light. It fits on the majority of pistols that utilize a full size rail, but it sticks out beyond the muzzle on most full size pistols. It even sticks out beyond the end of my compensated Glock G19x.

  The X300 Turbo is exactly the same size as the X300 Ultra. That’s important because there are a million holsters for the X300U;  you should be able to find concealment holsters for IWB or OWB, and if you’re on duty using a X300U already, you can keep your existing retention holster.

  Even though the package is long, I have been comfortably carrying the pictured package AIWB. Yes, that means I appendix carry one of the longest pistol and light packages on the market. I do so in the Werkz M6 holster, but I carry in the deep position with a little negative cant dialed in. I find this quite comfortable and easy to carry day in and day out. While it’s not G43x small, it’s workable.

  The light takes two CR123A batteries. While many people now prefer rechargeables for their lower cost and higher output capability, I do appreciate prime batteries for their long-lasting power output, and that I can easily swap batteries while training. 

  I tested all 4 of the X300T samples for lumen output in my integrating sphere, capturing both the absolute maximum, and calculating the ANSI / PLATO FL-1 lumens (which average readings from 30 to 120 seconds). Here are my results.

I also captured candela using similar measurements.

  All the lights performed well, but I did observe some variance between them. This is typical of lights; the electronic components (especially the LEDs) can vary from light to light giving different readings. 

  It is interesting how the light seems to get stronger for about the first 15 seconds, then it levels out and drops off.

The competition

  Given the high candela output of this light, probably the best light to compare to is the Modlite PL350 using either the OKW or the PLHv2 head. The PL350 is similarly priced, and the OKW head is rated at similar candela output at a rated 69,000cd. Here are my measurements:

  As we can see here, the new X300 Turbo has significantly more candela than the Ultra, and has competitive output compared to the PL350 with the OKW head. This is impressive output from CR123A batteries.

  I measured candela at angle, which provides a graphical view of the width of light intensity. If wider angles have higher candela output, then the light has more flood. If a light has a peak, then drops off near zero, then it has all throw and almost no flood.

    In this case, you can see that the PL350 with the PLHv2 head has a fair amount of output up to 5 degrees. In comparison, the X300U is much flatter, showing in graphical terms how it provides much more flood than the other lights.

  I also gathered lumen data, which allows me to measure instant max lumens, and calculate ANSI / PLATO FL-1 lumens, and runtime.

In this chart, we see that the highest lumen is from the Ultra, which is no surprise given that light’s focus on output and flood. There are two Turbo samples here because sample 1 seemed to have an issue with runtime that I didn’t see in the other 3, so I included sample 2 as an example of how the majority of the units tested out. It’s good to see that the Turbo can run 1:15 still outputting almost 400 lumens. 

Practical Testing

I stood downrange and had each of the lights shone into my eyes. Excepting the Ultra, all of these lights were painful to look at and I had a hard time determining distance or position of the person holding the lights. From the camera angle, you can see that all of these lights provide a degree of flood, and each light has a slightly different color tint.

Summary

Here is a summary of the data shown here:

Based upon the data gathered here, I personally am upgrading from my Streamlight TLR-1HL to the Surefire X300T. In particular, sample 3 impressed me not only with output but also with a slightly warmer color temperature out of the group. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Candela is competitive with the best pistol lights, backed by the Surefire reputation and fits in existing X300 holsters.

Target Market:

Military, law enforcement, and citizens who want some of the highest throw possible in a pistol light.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Feature: 66,000 advertised candela

    • Benefit: Provides high throw capability – can illuminate further out than most pistol lights

    • Benefit: Defeats photonic barriers such as auto glass, headlights, and dark corners better

    • Benefit: Helps control subjects better by blinding themselves

  • Feature: Same form factor as the X300U

    • Benefit: Fits in all your existing X300 holsters

  • Feature: Retains X300 existing momentary and constant switches

    • Benefit: Operator can select between momentary activation and constant activation

  • Feature: Surefire build and reputation

    • Benefit: High quality made in the USA product with an excellent warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Comes in “A” and “B” flavors. The A version uses a sprung lever & key to lock in to the rail. The “B” version uses a key but has a screw to clamp to the rail. My personal preference is the “B” as I can clamp it down and eliminate rate. However, many people also have good success with the A version by using the correct key, or by putting some electrical tape on the top to reduce or eliminate the rattle.

Comes in black and tan.

What others are saying?:

T-Rex Arms:

Surefire was able to change the throw of this light without changing the external dimensions or size of the light itself, so you’ll be able to use with the holsters out there. They were able to squeeze this power out of CR123A batteries.

Big Tex Ordnance: 

“Still the standard, I regretted trading up to the 1000lm from the 500, this has the right spot and a nice flood, fits my existing setup and I might be losing it but the switches feel a lot easier to manipulate than the ones on the 1000.”

“Great light; amazing throw, intense hotspot, but still has a decent amount of flood. This is nearly as good outdoors as my Cloud Defensive Rein while being much smaller and still being the same size as my X300U. I don’t think you need to run out and replace all your old X300s and TLR-1s, but if you’ve got a handgun that needs a light, this should be a no-brainer.”

Link to other reviews:

https://youtu.be/Ra2j0mo_5zU

https://www.lowlightdefense.com/surefire-x300-turbo-the-king-reclaims-the-throne/ 

https://www.reddit.com/r/tacticalgear/comments/wjrnue/x300_turbo_is/ 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ne1U85IEBA 

Price point:

MSRP = $379   

Primary arms = $322   

Big Tex Ordnance = $322

I need it now! Availability:

Seems out of stock everywhere. I think Primary Arms might be a good source.

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Some of the highest candela in this segment. 30 seconds in, my 4 lights averaged 61k. Some people think candela is only for rifles, but it is also useful for defeating photonic barriers such as when shining a light through a car windshield and against the car’s headlights. Candela also helps blind a subject, making it difficult or impossible for them to see you.

  • Still has decent flood, similar to the Modlite OKW. Not as wide as the Ultra, but testing shows it sufficient for most indoor operations. Output is good, and for indoors it is possible to shine the light up (umbrella lighting) or down against the bottom of the wall (baseboard) to help diffuse the light.

  • Consistent output: our testing shows 96% output consistency from run to run. Some lights are much lower, down around 85%. 

  • Generous runtime of 1.5 hours

  • Utilizes existing X300 holsters, and literally everyone makes holsters for pistols with the X300.

  • Switches provide both momentary and constant activation, and do so intuitively.

  • Utilizes common CR123A batteries.

Cons:

  • This is an expensive light at just over $330 street price.

  • Switches are adequate and provide both momentary and constant activation, but they can feel stiff or sticky, and the momentary activation pokes my thumb  under recoil. 

  • Some people will see the high candela and lack of flood as a reason not to run the light. My experience is that high candela lights do restrict some of the peripheral view, but I know how disorienting a high candela light can be when it’s aimed directly at my face. I can overcome most of the concerns about “blinding myself” or “it’s too focused” through training.

  • It’s still a large light, one of the largest on the market. 

Score:

This is now my EDC light on my Glock 19x. 

I rate it at 8.50 - Great. 

Favorite Link: Geek out on all the data HERE

Victory Operational Works Crusader Holster

  Victory Operational Works is a veteran owned company making a unique holster system. The Crusader is a 2 piece multi-use holster which is not your typical pancake style. Victory Operational Works also has one called the Crusader Max which has a built in mag carrier. I chose the standard Crusader in Kryptek Neptune, but Victory also sent me one of their Conspirator individual magazine carriers to try out. It is also in Kryptek Neptune. Both of which exude quality.

  The Crusader comes complete with everything you need. When I say everything, it really means everything. When you pull the Crusader out of its nicely sealed packaging, a bag of accessories comes out with it. In this little bag is all the extra hardware you need to change the Crusader from an inside the waistband (IWB) holster, to an outside the waistband (OWB) holster. This includes screws, rubber grommets, Torx style allen wrench, etc. The OWB mounting isn’t just some flimsy belt loops, Victory Operational Works gives you an official Blade-Tech Tek Lok to use for OWB carry. The Tek Lok is a proven secure mounting method that has built in belt width adjustments. For IWB use, the Crusader holster comes, out of the package, with an installed Discreet Carry Concepts 1.5” monoblock. The DCC clip also has a laser engraved “V” on it which is a really nice quality touch that I haven’t seen before. In my opinion, the DCC clips are the best IWB clips around. So check a box for Victory doing stuff correctly. 

  With all those mounting options, Victory goes one step farther with the Crusader. The Crusader has a bunch of different mounting hole options. Essentially, all these holes give the user plenty of different options for carrying the holster by being able to mount the belt clip or Tek Lok. Most notably are the different holes for ride height and cant. With the IWB and DCC option, you have 2 different ride height adjustments, as well as a cant option. There are 2 different ride height adjustments in the OWB configuration. Besides the supplied mounting options, Victory puts in a bunch of different holes for OWB carry. This allows you to install your own type of OWB attachments. Most notably are the Safariland mounting hole pattern. I ended up mounting a QLS fork from Safariland so I can quickly just add or remove the Crusader from my battle belt. All of the mounting holes are riveted so they will last a lifetime. Another check for the quality box. 

  When it comes to the Crusader itself, it is unique. I say this because the holster is constructed of 2 separate pieces. A front piece and a back piece. They are molded to each individual firearm, to make a complete holster, by custom made inhouse jigs. Then they are mounted together with 4 screws and rubber bushings. These 4 mounting points also make it possible for the end user to adjust the tension on the holster. You can make the gun fit super loose, or super tight. Adjust the 2 down by the trigger guard for that “snap in” feel, but keep the other 2 screws looser, and the pistol seems to glide out of the holster with ease. Or tighten them all up equally for more of that normal holster feel. The way Victory makes these 2 sides allows for tall sight and slide ride optics. The Crusader is an open bottom style holster. The open bottom allows lint and stuff to not build up in the holster. It also allows for the use of threaded barrels and compensators to stick out the end of the holster, if you are using such products. One thing I noticed about the Crusader, is that it angles the butt end of the pistol in toward your body. I really liked this as it helps to hide the grip a little better. 

  Victory Operational Works also sent their Conspirator magazine pouch. The Conspirator is a molded, universal, single mag carrier for double stack magazines . It also comes with all the hardware that the Crusader comes with, plus some options for a different style of DCC clip. The mag holder is the same excellent quality of the Crusader. It also has multiple holes for mounting it however one would like, angled either direction, straight, lower, higher, etc. One of the features, of the Conspirator, is the insert piece that lets you adjust the magazine's retention. Not by just clamping the screws tighter, but an adjustable drag plate inside the magazine pouch. I really like the Conspirator mag pouch. It may seem expensive at $49.99, but when you figure in all the mounting hardware, it’s a decent value.

  Every convertible holster has some trade offs. For me, the Crusader makes an excellent OWB holster. I like everything about it in that configuration. Where I think the trade off is, is in the IWB configuration. Because of the 2 piece design, there is a little more material to try and hide. This caused the holster and pistol to print more for me at the 2:30-3 o’clock position. Appendix carry was a little better, but not much. I really appreciated the designed in angles, or curves, that Victory puts into the holster. These angles make it a very comfortable holster to wear for IWB carry. Even if it does print more for me. Those angles also make it more comfortable for OWB carry. The Crusader also is made so that the pistol's magazine release button is not covered by the holster. This allows you to change a magazine without unholstering the pistol. But for me, it means that the holster itself won’t drop the magazine. Which has happened to me before. So nice job Victory.

  If you are looking for that one do-all holster, the Crusader from Victory Operational Works just might be it. The quality and craftsmanship are top notch, even down to using torx head screws that are used throughout the holster. It has great adjustability and comes with everything you need to convert it between IWB and OWB carry. Made in the USA with a lifetime warranty, you should go take a look at Victory Operational Works and the Crusader holster.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quality Universal kydex holster

Target Market:

Anyone needing a do-all holster

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Blade-Tech Tek-Lok included for OWB carry, offering two different carry options, vertical and FWD cant

  • Discreet Carry Concepts 1.5” Monoblock Clip, with “V” laser engraved including mounting hardware for IWB carry, offering three different carry options, two ride height options with .5” difference and FWD cant

  • All mounting hardware is stainless steel for strength and to prevent rusting

  • Four adjustable retention points, two on the trigger guard side and two on the slide side, creating a sandwich type retention that applies equal pressure around the holster that maintains a perfect fit regardless of how tight or loose the retention is set

  • Three point angle adjustment in OWB configuration utilizing the Tek Lok and rubber bushings

  • Final fit on each holster performed with actual handgun, never plastic guns

  • Open access to magazine release so magazine can be removed while handgun remains safely holstered 

  • Positive pressure created by rubber bushing on all hard points, eliminating the need for thread lock

  • T-15 tool included with each holster

  • Highly polished edge treatment

  • OWB hole pattern is universal and compatible with G-Code RTI, Safariland QLS and Blade-Tech to name a few

  • Muzzle end is open

  • Rear sight catch to rack slide single handed

  • Every hole drilled is finished with an eyelet for added strength at each hard point

  • Optic compatible cut front plate and relief channel created on back plate 

  • No questions asked LifeTime Warranty

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Tons

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars at victoryoperationalworks.com

Very well made

I’ve purchased many holsters in my life. This is the most versatile holster I have found to date. It’s a great draw holster also. Very pleased.

Link to other reviews:

Nothing found as of publishing

Price point:

MSRP = $129.99

     Mag Carrier = $49.99

Retail = $99.99 + depending on options

I need it now! Availability:

Victory Operational Works

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Quality and craftsmanship

  • Standard design works with red dots

  • Open style (works with comps, etc.)

  • Everything included for IWB or OWB mounting

  • 2 piece design

  • Comfortable angled/curved design

Cons:

  • Larger than other IWB holsters

  • Prints more when using for IWB

Score: 8.00 Great

Favorite Link:  JSD Supply

AR Gold trigger

  Some time ago I was asked if I had ever used an AR Gold trigger. My answer was “no”, but I had heard they are pretty good. That led me to ask American Trigger Corporation if they would send one out for a full review. As one can guess, here I am with a full review of the Adjustable, curved, AR Gold trigger.

  When the AR Gold trigger showed up, I eagerly installed it into a lower receiver. The AR Gold comes in a nicely packaged box with some stickers and such. The packaging itself makes the trigger look like a finely tuned race car, which it kind of is. Since the AR Gold is a cartridge style AR-15 trigger, installation is very straightforward. 

  As mentioned, I opted for the adjustable version. Yes, a non-adjustable one is also available, its pull weight is set at 3.5 lbs. The adjustable one is also set at the factory to 3.5 lbs. I set mine a little lighter, down to 2.5 lbs. To adjust the AR Gold trigger, there are 2 set screws at the back of the trigger housing. Use the top screw. Clockwise will increase the sear tension, thus increasing the break weight of the trigger. Of course, turning the screw counter-clockwise will decrease the sear tension, lightening the trigger break. From ATC Gold’s website - “As you reduce the amount of spring tension on the sear, you WILL reach a point that the gun will not cock reliably when live firing – though it may still cock dry firing. On most AR’s this will occur somewhere between 3 and 2 lbs.” So go slowly with your adjustments. From my understanding, there is really no need to even go near the bottom screw on the trigger housing. I had no problems adjusting the AR gold trigger down to a measured 2.5 lbs, everything still safely checked out as normal. Individual results for the trigger adjustments may vary. ATC also designed this trigger from the ground up. It is not just a modified GI trigger in a drop-in cage. Which is really noticeable if you compare them side by side. 

  The trigger pull on the AR Gold is really good, but it may not be what you are used to. It is more like a really good 1911 pistol trigger pull. ATC has a good explanation on their website, but essentially it says “AR Gold is a single-stage with a slight bit of very light (8 oz.) of take up.” After the take up, you then hit the “wall,” this is where the actual pull weight is. Apply pressure and the trigger breaks super crisply. This is by far one of the crispest trigger pulls I have felt. When I measured it, at the bottom of the trigger shoe, the break only moved the trigger around 0.050”. So up higher on the trigger, the pull length is actually shorter. After the break, there is some slight over travel. Not a bunch, most people might not even notice it. Then there is the reset. The reset is short, essentially the same as the break of the trigger. But, the reset is not very positive. It didn’t seem to matter if the trigger was set to the factory 3.5 lbs, or the 2.5 lbs I set it at. I would have liked to see a more positive reset, but I could still shoot this trigger very fast. All kinds of “super fast” professional shooters use this trigger, so it’s not like the reset is slow.

  I chose the AR Gold with a curved trigger shoe. Why? Because I like the consistency that a curved trigger gives me. ATC also offers a flat style trigger shoe. I think the flat style looks better, but I’m about functionality. The AR Gold trigger shoe is pretty narrow. It doesn’t affect anything, it’s just notable compared to a GI trigger. The curve of the trigger feels very much like the curve of a GI trigger, at least to me. The trigger, as a whole, feels like an expensive watch. It functions superbly, but also looks elegant. 

  The AR Gold trigger could be used on just about any style of AR rifle. It is fast, has a great break, and is adjustable. So if you are just into backyard plinking, or full blown competition, the AR Gold might be something to look into. I’m probably going to stick it in a AR varmint rifle build, but what you do with one is really up to you. American Trigger Corporation did a great job making a 1911 style trigger for your AR. If you are into finely tuned race cars, or triggers that are similar, then you need to check out the AR Gold trigger.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Adjustable AR trigger with a super short break

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a top of the line AR trigger

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 3.5 lbs. (Adjustable Weight)

  • Drop Safe

  • Drop-In trigger module 

  • Includes .154” trigger pins

  • Short Reset

  • Short, Crisp break

  • Adjustable weight engagement and over-travel

  • Designed for AR-15 & AR-10 Platform (.223, 5.56, .308, 7.62, .300 BLK, 6.5 Grendal)

  • Made in USA

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Flat faced trigger

What others are saying?:

4 out of 5 stars at Brownells

EXCELLENT

Pricey yes, but a great trigger. A clean sheet design. Not a reworked set of standard parts but a whole new way of thinking. Pulls very light and crisp. Yet punches deep pits into the primers. Can't comment on long term results until much more "testing" is done. But so far, perfect reliability and function. Just wish they were a bit cheaper. Then they would be a 5 star rating!

Link to other reviews:

Western Shooter  

Price point:

MSRP = $279.00

Retail = $279.00 at Rainier Arms  

I need it now! Availability:

American Trigger Co. or Rainier Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Super crisp Break - glass rod type

  • Adjustable

  • Thin trigger profile

  • Cartridge style drop-in installation

Cons:

  • Slower reset

  • Slight over-travel

  • Price

Score: 8.00 Great

Favorite Link:  Gun Guys Garage

Tyrant Designs I.T.T.S. Glock Trigger

  Tyrant Designs has come out with their own style Glock trigger system. They call it the I.T.T.S. trigger. ITTS stands for “Improved Tyrant Trigger System”. These triggers can be had for Gen 3-5 and 43,43x, and 48. The one I received was for a gen 3 Glock.

  Tyrant Designs has their own unique style for designs. Most of their products have, what I would call, an arrow shape and/or deep angled cuts. The ITTS is no different. The trigger has a nice line to it. The rear of the trigger is also cut in, giving it a similar look to the other Tyrant designs.

  When ordering one of the ITTS triggers, you have many options. First off, the trigger can be had in six different colors. I chose black. Part of the reason I chose black is the option of a gold trigger safety, which I chose also. The gold on the trigger safety, and the screws holding it in, are actually 24k gold plated. So they really stand out against the black anodized trigger. Tyrant doesn’t just use pins to hold the trigger shoe and safety on. They use threaded pins. A really nice touch that also makes it so much easier to change out the trigger. 

  The ITTS is not a complete trigger assembly. It is mainly a trigger shoe. For Gen 3 and 4 there is an option for a trigger bar. I opted for the trigger bar, but only used it for a short time because I then changed the trigger to a different pistol. The ITTS is a hybrid trigger shoe. What this means is it lands somewhere in the middle between a normal curved trigger and a flat faced trigger. In Tyrant’s case, the top half of the trigger is essentially flat. Then the bottom part has a curve to it. The curve lets me get a consistent finger placement on the trigger. Because of the hybrid design, Tyrant is able to make a longer trigger face, which can help those with larger fingers. The trigger safety extends out a little farther than a factory trigger and it is noticeably sharper. I can definitely feel it until I start to pull the trigger. Then it just kind of melts into the trigger.

  So what is I.T.T.S.? Essentially it is a quicker resetting trigger. Tyrant adds in a 30% stronger trigger spring and possibly does some other magic. This gives the trigger a fast reset without changing the pull weight of the trigger. Mine stayed at 5.5 lbs, both before and after installing the trigger. Yes, you will definitely notice a quicker reset with the ITTS. The faster reset can make for a good EDC trigger. 

  As I mentioned earlier, I did install the trigger in two different guns. The first was a Polymer 80. In this pistol I used the trigger bar provided. It worked well in that pistol, but the finger reach was a little too far for me. The Tyrant ITTS trigger has a longer reach than the standard Glock trigger does. So I wouldn’t always press the trigger safety down. I proceeded to take the trigger off and install it in a Lone Wolf frame. These frames have a much smaller grip and therefore have a shorter trigger reach. It now lives in the Lone Wolf. Once I did that, I didn’t have any more problems with the trigger reach. So if you have larger hands, this might be a great trigger for you. The Lone Wolf is where I primarily used the trigger. I can’t really say that the quick reset made me shoot faster, but I did notice the quicker and very positive reset. The hybrid shoe felt good to me also.

  Tyrant Designs ITTS trigger system is a little different than I was used to. Usually triggers try to reduce the pull weight, but not the Tyrant ITTS. It keeps it the same but increases the reset. That quick reset is actually pretty nice. The trigger face also has a nice shape to it. Go check out the Tyrant Designs ITTS trigger and see if it’s right for you.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Different trigger style for Glock pistols

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a better resetting trigger

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Aggressive trigger reset

  • Screw pins for easy installation 

  • Hybrid trigger face

  • Available for Gen 3-5 and 43 series

  • Stainless trigger safety and pins

  • Screw-in trigger pins

  • Optional trigger bar

  • Longer trigger reach

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Different shoe and trigger safety colors

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars at tyrantcnc.com

Pretty good!

Initially I was a little worried as the trigger safety felt very sharp and very stiff. After about the 5th pull I really like feel and the look. I would recommend this to anyone.

Link to other reviews:

The Firearm Blog

Price point:

MSRP = $74.95 or $84.95 w/trigger bar

Retail = $70.99 at Gun Mag Warehouse  

I need it now! Availability:

Tyrant Designs or Gun Mag Warehouse

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Fantastic reset

  • Crisp break

  • Hybrid flat/curved trigger shoe

  • Threaded pins

Cons:

  • Doesn’t reduce pull weight

  • Sharper trigger safety

Score: 7.00 Good

Favorite Link:  JSD Supply

Tyrant Designs SIG P320 Trigger

  Tyrant Designs sent me out one of their SIG P320 triggers. This trigger is nothing like Tyrant’s other trigger designs. It is a flat faced design with a finger hook at the bottom. The P320 trigger has a colored insert in the trigger itself. This insert also has the typical Tyrant design on the rear of the trigger.

  The Tyrant Designs P320 trigger comes in a few options. Or should I say color options. The trigger itself can be had in Black or Gold anodizing. Then there is the option for the trigger insert. The insert comes in 5 different color options: Black, Gold, Blue, Red, or Grey. A neat thing about the insert is that it puts a line of color down the center of the trigger face, if you choose a different color then the trigger itself. I chose a Black trigger with a Grey insert. It adds just a touch of color to the look. This insert also covers most of the back side of the trigger. On the back side, it has Tyrant’s typical arrow shaped cuts. It looks really good. 

  As mentioned, the P320 trigger is a flat faced design. So the main part of the trigger’s face is flat. Then Tyrant puts a hook at the bottom of the trigger. I really like the trigger design. The flat face gives an even pull and the hook keeps my finger from moving downward. I noticed that the trigger breaks about perpendicular to the frame. This gives a nice even, repeatable break. One of my favorite things about this trigger is the texture. It’s not really a texture, but you can definitely feel that the face is not smooth. I relate it to how a bead blasted texture feels. It gives grip, without adding a machined in texture.

  Tyrant designed the P320 trigger to have a reduction in overall travel. In fact, it’s a 10% reduction in overall pull length. Yes, you can feel that it is slightly shorter than the stock trigger pull. However, it still has a lot of over-travel. I wish they would have installed an over-travel stop, but they didn’t. Pre-travel may be a little shorter than the factory SIG, but I can’t really say because I forgot to measure it before installing the Tyrant Designs trigger. 

  One might ask, how is the trigger pull? It is pretty good. There is some slight pre-travel, as aforementioned. Then you hit a wall and the trigger breaks cleanly, followed by a bunch of over-travel. The break itself is really short! Reset is really good also. There is no changing of the factory P320 springs, so I expected the reset to be good. Now, Tyrant doesn’t say their trigger will do this, but in my SIG, it dropped the trigger pull weight by approximately 0.5 lbs. So I am now sitting at 4.75 lbs. This trigger made the P320 easier to shoot for me. 

  I really like what Tyrant Designs did in their SIG P320 trigger. It has a really good “feel” to it. Plus it has Tyrant's typical look to it. Go check out the P320 trigger from Tyrant Designs. After all, it’s a decent trigger design.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Different trigger style for SIG P320

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a better trigger

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 10% reduction in trigger travel

  • Flat face with bottom curve

  • Works with OEM internals

  • Color insert with Tyrant design style on rear of insert

  • Lifetime warranty

  • Made in USA

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Different shoe and insert colors

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars at Tyrantcnc.com

Great trigger.

The trigger feels super solid when shooting, easy to install, and the design is flawless. Really hoping for some more awesome stuff for the 320 from Tyrant !

Link to other reviews:

Not much out there as of this review

Price point:

MSRP = $79.95

Retail = $71.95 at Rainier Arms 

I need it now! Availability:

Tyrant Designs or Rainier Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Crisp Break

  • Roughish texture on face

  • Reduced total trigger travel

  • Dropped trigger pull by ½ lb

Cons:

  • No over-travel or pre-travel adjustments

  • Lots of over-travel

Score: 8.00 Great

Favorite Link:  JSD Supply

Athlon Midas HMR HD 2.5-15x50

  A lot of variables can go into selecting a mid-range optic. Price, clarity, features, and so on. Athlon optics has a ton of options available to fit what best suits you. I decided on the Athlon Midas HMR HD 2.5-15x50 AHMR with the  illuminated reticle, for what I needed. The Midas HMR brought everything I was looking for together in one fantastic package.

  One thing you notice, when pulling the scope out of the box, is its quality. It has a feel to it that makes you happy. It is the typical smooth, matte black anodizing we are all accustomed to. It has some weight to it, but it really only weighs 26 ounces. Which is a tiny bit lighter than some of Athlon’s other mid-range optics. It is also 13.8 inches long, so average length for this type of optic. You also end up noticing that the Midas HMR runs capped turrets. Probably so you don’t bump your zero off in the field. 

  For a scope in the $500-550 retail range, the Midas HMR 2.5-15x50 has a ton of features. The magnification range is 2.5x to 15x, as you can figure out from the model. This magnification range is perfect for closer in shooting, but still gives you the ability to see at distances. The 30mm tube and 50mm objective lens give you plenty of light to see what you're aiming at. The low dispersion HD glass and lens coatings also help you see through the scope better. The Midas is a second focal plane reticle, so it stays the same size throughout the magnification range. For hunting, this works out well for me. The reticle is illuminated, but more on the reticle later. Athlon also put a side parallax adjustment knob on the Midas. The great thing about this parallax adjustment is that it adjusts down to 10 yds. Since I mounted the Midas HMR on a PCP air rifle, this was a needed adjustment. Lastly, the Midas has a fast focus eyepiece to get that reticle crystal clear.

  The Midas HMR HD has 2 reticle options available. A BDC option and an AHMR option. I’m not big into BDC reticles, so I chose the AHMR reticle. The AHMR reticle (see inset pic) is an MOA reticle with marks every 2 MOA, both for windage and elevation. No Christmas trees or anything like that, just simple crosshairs with little hash marks. The inner reticle can be illuminated red by turning the side knob to one of 6 brightness settings. The brightness knob also has off positions between the settings, a nice touch so you don’t have to cycle through them all to turn it off or on. The illuminated part of the reticle measures 10 MOA. Everything outside of the 10 MOA is not illuminated. The whole marked reticle has measurements to 30 MOA. Might I mention, all these MOA values are measured at 15x. One would have to calculate them for the lower magnification ranges. I just use an app on my phone that does it for me. I am a huge fan of the AHMR reticle. Athlon made a great reticle for hunting and precision shooting, all in one. It is not too busy to distract you from whatever game you are hunting. Also, the center aiming “plus” and 2 MOA marks provide an excellent choice for precision shooting. 

  As mentioned, I mounted the Midas HMR on a pre-charged pneumatic air rifle. So I didn't do any work past 100 yds with it, of course I did look at targets past 100. The clarity on this scope is amazing. I could easily spot the pellet trace, when looking through the optic, at the same time I was shooting. Especially at 50 and 100yds, there’s a lot of drop on a pellet slug at 100yds. The reticle is super clear also, even at full magnification. The magnification adjustment ring is super smooth. It has some resistance, it's not very stiff, but it stays in place. There’s also a little raised bump on the adjustment ring to help turn it easier, not that it’s needed on the Midas. Under the capped turrets are the ¼ MOA adjustment knobs. The clicks on these are pretty outstanding. No mush to them at all. After you get your zero, you can set the turrets to read zero. Just use a coin to loosen the center, pull the cap off, set it back on at “zero”, then tighten the screw down. I would have liked to have seen a Zero stop on this optic, but that’s not an option. Eye relief on the Midas is stated as 3.9”. It’s pretty forgiving, even at 15x.

  I was pleasantly surprised at how well I like the Midas HMR. I can’t get over how clear the optic is. The reticle is so simple to use and didn’t get in the way for me at all. I think this would be an awesome scope to put on an AR style rifle. In fact, I have thought about moving this one over to a varmint rifle style AR. The click adjustments make it easy to adjust for bullet drops, if needed. Those 2 MOA marks work so well for hold-overs that I really didn’t need to use the turrets. When I adjusted the turrets, the scope always returned to zero without any deviation. The Midas performed better than I expected.

  So if you are looking for a second focal plane mid-range optic, the Athlon Midas HMR 2.5-15x50 might be the ticket. It is even its own product line in the Athlon catalog. The Midas did everything I was hoping for and more. It is super clear, is priced right, and has a fantastic reticle. Athlon Optics has a ton of different optics options, so go take a look and be sure to check out the Midas HMR when you’re there.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Extremely clear second focal plane optic with illuminated reticle

Target Market:

Hunters, competition shooters, or anyone just wanting a good mid-range distance optic

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Fully coated, low dispersion HD glass

  • XPL protective coating

  • 2.5-15 magnification

  • 30mm tube

  • 50mm objective lens

  • 3.9” eye relief

  • Field of View: 41.8 ft - 6.8 ft

  • Side parallax adjustment to 10yds

  • 0.25 MOA click adjustment value

  • Capped turrets - adjustable for zero

  • Length - 13.8”

  • Weight - 26 ounces

  • Second focal plane Illuminated AHMR reticle

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

600A reticle 

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars at Athlon Optics

I have used a wide variety of optics on various rifles, from high-end tier 1 optics to cheap rimfire scopes. I wanted a SFP optic for a long-ish range hunting rifle. This scope is, IMO, perfect for this application.

The eyebox is very forgiving at max mag, the glass resolves very well and shows good contrast, and the color rendering is neutral. There's a bit of barrel distortion at the low end of the mag range, but it's reasonable for the zoom range and it's pretty much unnoticeable after 8x or so. All the controls move easily and smoothly. This scope really shines in low light at lower mag where the 50mm objective gives you a very large exit pupil that really maximizes the available light. The AHMR reticle is, IMO, the perfect width for this application being thin enough not to obscure the aiming point and bold enough to see against all but the darkest of backgrounds (and then there's the illumination for those conditions). Parallax is marked down to 10 yards and I've tested it down to 8 yards at max mag. As the magnification is lowered the depth of field really expands making it possible to leave parallax set, let's say for 100 yards, and the image stays in focus for objects up close (25 yards) and far away (250 yards). Optically this scope is really well balanced for hunting.

Unlike many scopes with capped turrets, the turrets on the Midas HMR are tactile and solid with no play between detents - they feel like the turrets of a tactical scope that have been scaled down to fit under the caps. It doesn't have a zero stop, but the turrets are resettable. This makes it actually useful as a long-range hunting scope where you might need to dial for a ballistic solution. The parallax knob is very smooth and moves easily making it easy to dial out parallax and focus on the target. I can say that this scope has the best mechanical feel of any hunting scope I've used.

This is really an impressive package for the price, and IMO it may be the best value in a SFP hunting optic out there. And of course, it's backed by Athlon's outstanding reputation for customer service. I have zero regrets about buying this scope and recommend it 100% for a mid- to long-range hunting optic.

Link to other reviews:

The Firearm Blog 

Price point:

MSRP = $649.99

Retail = $519.99 at Brownells

I need it now! Availability:

Athlon Optics or Brownells

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Super Clear

  • Tactile click adjustments

  • Parallax adjustment

  • AHMR reticle

  • Illuminated reticle

Cons:

  • No zero stop

  • No Auto on or off for the illumination 

Score: 9.00 Amazing

Athlon Midas TSP1 Prism

  I’m starting to convert some rifles over to 1x prism sights from red dots. This is because they offer a reticle without the need for a battery. Thus, the Athlon Midas TSP1 prism sight was right up my alley. Prism sights usually have an illuminated reticle option. As does the Athlon TSP1. The Athlon Optics Midas TSP1 prism sight has been out for some time now, I just finally have one I’ve been using, for about 3 months, with good results.

  Let’s start by why I am converting over to prisms. The main reason for this is that, if for some reason the battery happens to die, prism sights have an etched in reticle. Similar to your typical scope. Some prism sights, as with the TSP1, have a non-magnified option, or 1x. This makes them an ideal replacement for your everyday red dot optic. Prism sights are also usually pretty compact.

  The Midas TSP1 comes feature packed. Like any good scope these days, it has all the fancy lens coatings, is nitrogen purged, fog proof, shock proof, and waterproof. The TSP1 has a 21mm objective lens that gives good light transmission. It even comes with both hi and low mounts. Zeroing adjustments are made in 1 MOA click increments by using the top side of the turret caps. Just unscrew the cap, flip it over, and the flathead built into the cap fits perfectly into the adjustment screw slot. Lastly, it uses a single AAA battery for the reticle illumination.

  Most prism sights aren’t as small as a comparable red dot. However, the Midas TSP1 is not much larger than your current, tube style, red dots. For one, the TSP1 is only 2.7” long. Height is always determined by what mounting base you have on it. But with the high base, it measures 2.5” to the top of the battery compartment, from the mounting rail. I measured the width to be about 1.9”, this is from the battery compartment to the outside of the adjustment buttons. As you can see, it’s not very big at all. It also isn’t very heavy, weighing in at 6.25 oz’s. 

  Now for the most important part, the reticle. The Midas TSP1’s reticle is top notch. It is mainly calibrated for 223/5.56, but should work reasonably well with other calibers. For reference, I mounted it on a 5.56 AR15. The reticle design works really well. It is a horseshoe style with a few usable differences. The outer ring is 66 MOA, or the equivalent of an average size human at 100 yds. In the middle of the ring is a 3 MOA dot. Sight the 3 MOA dot in at 50/200 yds for the rest of the holdovers to work properly. Below the 3 MOA dot, is a 2 MOA dot. This is your 300 yd aiming point. Having a smaller dot below the main dot may seem odd, but it isn’t. The smaller dot actually makes it easier to see your 300 yd target because it doesn't obscure it as much. Below that dot, is a vertical line with a couple of hash mark lines. The top of the line is your 500 yd aiming point. It is also your human height range estimation for 300 yds. The wings on the edges of the reticle really just let you know how level the gun is, or where the center point is for range estimation. The actual MOA numbers for all the dots and lines are in the Midas TSP1 manual, or online, if you are curious. The TSP1 also has a fast focus eyepiece to get that reticle crystal clear.

  The Athlon TSP1’s reticle is also illuminated. But not just your normal red illumination, the TSP1 also has green illumination. Most other prism sights only give you the option of one color. One can switch between the two colors by pressing both the up and down brightness buttons at the same time. I really like the options of green or red. I usually leave the TSP1 on green, as the reticle is clearer for me in that color. Not to be misunderstood, the red illumination is also clear, but I prefer the green in this case. To initially turn the illumination on, just push the brightness up button. To turn it off, hold the brightness up button for 3 seconds. Once it’s on, just use the +/- buttons to increase or decrease the reticle brightness. There are 10 brightness settings to choose from. Both colors are daylight bright and neither washed out for me in direct, bright, sunlight. The Athlon TSP1 also has a 6 hour auto off function. So if you haven’t pressed any buttons in that time frame, it will turn off. The TSP1 does not have an auto on function. Remember, it has an etched reticle, so you will still have an aiming point. Of course, once you turn the TSP1 back on, the brightness is where it was last left. The soft touch brightness buttons are large enough that I don’t have trouble using them, something I can’t say about some of the other optics I have used. 

  I am really enjoying the Athlon Midas TSP1. It is super clear. The etched, illuminated reticle also doesn’t affect my astigmatism like red dots do, so no “starburst”. Which is another reason I am switching over to prism optics. The somewhat limited eye relief didn’t seem to be a problem. When I say somewhat, the reticle is still visible at 12” of eye relief, it is just harder to locate because the window size gets smaller. The TSP1 also performed very well for me when I used it in a big local shooting match. Athlon doesn’t state battery life, but the initial AAA battery is still going strong. After all, the AAA batteries are super easy to find, even at a tiny store in the middle of nowhere.

  Athlon Optics did a pretty good job with the Midas TSP1. The MSRP may seem a little high, but street price is right on par for a 1x prism sight. Plus you get multi-colored reticles and it uses that AAA battery. If you are like me and want a good 1x prism sight, check out the Athlon Midas TSP1. It’s a good all around prism to replace that fully battery powered red dot.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

1 power prism scope with green or red illuminated reticle

Target Market:

Those wanting a non magnified optic with the benefits of having an etched reticle

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Obj. Lens - 21mm

  • FoV ft @100Y - 66ft

  • Red or Green illuminated etched reticle

  • 1-10 illumination settings

  • Center Height - 0.88” Low mount / 1.50” High mount

  • 1 MOA windage/Elevation adjustment

  • AAA battery

  • Weight - 6.25 ounces - 7.8 ounces with high mount

  • Length - 2.7”

  • 6hr auto off

  • Multi-coated lenses

  • Has Aimpoint T1 mounting footprint

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

3 and 4 power 

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars at Athlon Optics  

Really nice optic. It needs more information,

A representative told me the mount is proprietary. It however does in fact work on Industry standard T1 Micro Style mounts. Fits good in an ADM Mount, RS Regulate for AKs, or even a low mount for Shotguns or PCCs like the Scorpion/Stribog.

Athlon if you were open about this tidbit, you'd sell a lot more! It's a prism scope with a similar size to other micro red dots and it takes T1 mounts. Almost perfect for what it is.

Link to other reviews:

Nothing worthwhile found

Price point:

MSRP = $337.49

Retail = $269.99 at Brownells

I need it now! Availability:

Athlon Optics or Brownells 

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Etched ranging reticle

  • AAA battery

  • Green or Red Illumination

  • T1 compatible mount

Cons:

  • Eye Relief

  • No auto on

Score: 7.50 Good

Favorite Link:  JSD Supply

Nutrient Survival

  Nutrient Survival has come on the market with a huge variety of freeze dried products. These aren’t your everyday freeze dried products. They label them as “Special Ops Grade.” Essentially, Nutrient Survival enhances the  food with a plethora of essential nutrients. I received a variety of food options from them, all tasted pretty good.

  When you’re looking into freeze dried food, you essentially want something that lasts a long time. Nutrient Survival has just that. Most of their products have a shelf life of 25 years. Some of the more “grab and go” foods like their Chocolate Crunch bars and similar items are good for 18 months. They will still be edible after that time, the flavor and consistency may be a little off. Some of the food is Gluten-Free too.

  One of the big reasons I would choose Nutrient Survival is their “Special Ops Grade Nutrition.” What does this mean to you? Nutrient Survival has packed all of their food with 40 essential nutrients including 14 vitamins, 14 minerals, 9 Amino Acids (Protein), Omega-3s, Omega-6s and fiber. This is enough to meet the US military's requirements for Special Operations. But why would anyone care? Well, you will have everything, nutritionally, that you need for your body to function properly. 

  Nutrient Survival sent me a bunch of different types and styles of their food. Some are the “grab and go” style, others are the “add hot water” style. All tasted pretty good. Some were outstanding, and one of the drinks was just so-so. Following, I’ll explain what I received and my thoughts about them:

Hearty Lasagna:

  If you like lasagna, you’ll like this. I mixed it as per the instructions and it came out perfect. The only downside is that the consistency isn’t like a square piece of lasagna, it’s more like you mixed it up. It’s dehydrated food, so I expected this. 1 package or 1 serving equals 1 meal. It is soy free.

Southwestern Medley:

  This is beans, rice, peppers, and southwest spices. Also very tasty with a hint of kick. I really liked this, it’s great for breakfast. Mixed as per instructions and it came out great. 1 package or serving equals 1 meal. This is gluten free and soy free.

Maple Almond Grain Crunch:

  If you’re used to eating cereal for breakfast, this is one of Nutrient Survivals' choices. Pour some milk over it and eat away. This is just as good, if not better than the name brand of this type. You can eat in plain if you like also. I was surprised at how well it filled me up. 1 package or serving equals 1 meal and is gluten free.

Triple Cheese Mac:

  As it says, this is macaroni and cheese. They use a 3 cheese blend that tastes pretty good. It takes a little experimentation to get the consistency how you like it. If not enough water, it can be a little chewy, too much water and it becomes soupy. The instructional amount is a good starting place. It also kid of turns into a little bit of mush, but still has some texture to it. 1 package or serving equals 1 meal and is soy free.

Liquid Nutrient - Lemon Lime:

  This is Nutrient Survivals hydration drink. It is not a meal like the rest of the stuff, it is to help hydration, focus, and muscle repair. Just mix the packet with 12-14 ounces of cold water and shake. I actually found the normal 16 9 ounce bottles worked well with this. Out of all the ones here, this is my least favorite. It just doesn’t have a very good flavor. I hear the mixed berry flavor is better, but I haven’t tried it to see. It is gluten free and soy free.

Chocolate Chip Cookies:

  The name says it all. These are chewy cookies, not the crunchy kind. Really good flavor, some might say a little salty. Also great for throwing in a bag for a quick meal. 2 cookies equals 1 meal and is gluten free.

Chocolate Crunch Bar:

  These are kind of like a chocolate rice crispy bar. Not near as sweet, but I really liked the flavor. Great to throw in a hiking bag or for trips to the range. These are very chewy when cold, much better if left in the sun for a bit. 1 bar equals 1 meal and is gluten free.

  If you are into food prepping, or just needing something to take hunting or camping, Nutrient Survival is a really good option. With their #10 cans, or their single packs, the variety is there for any option. I would definitely check out Nutrient Survival for all your hunting, prepping, camping, or just snacking needs. The food is great and nutritious.  

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Special Ops grade Freeze Dried food, that tastes good

Target Market:

Campers, Hunters, Preppers, or anyone wanting long term food storage

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 40 essential nutrients

  • 14 vitamins

  • 14 minerals

  • 9 Amino Acids (Protein)

  • Omega-3s

  • Omega-6s

  • Fiber

  • Up to a 25 year shelf life

  • Gluten Free Options

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Too many to list, visit Nutrient Survival

What others are saying?:

Very convenient, filling and pretty tasty - 5/5 Stars

Very good!  Easy to fix and tastes very good.  Really like the fact that so many vitamins and minerals are in every serving.

Optimized emergency rations - 5/5 Stars

Far more vitamins and, well, nutrients than freeze dried camping food. Much lighter weight and longer lasting than an MRE. Last but not least, tasty, too. Try the Southwestern Medley!

This food is absolutely good to go. Dry bag package is small and easily stores in your loved one's car trunk along with a backpack stove, mess kit, and some water bottles

Link to other reviews:

Ready To Go Survival 

Survival Blog 

Price point:

MSRP = $17.50 - $1770.00

Retail = Same

I need it now! Availability:

Nutrient Survival

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Most items taste really good

  • Lasts for 25+ years until opened

  • Has all essential vitamins and nutrients

  • Gluten Free options

  • Soy free options

Cons:

  • Not cheap

Score: 8.50 Great

Umarex Origin

 For some time, I had been thinking about getting into a high pressure air rifle. I was looking for something in .22 caliber, possibly for use on small game or anything else interesting. After looking around some, I came across the Umarex Origin. After a bunch of questions to Umarex, here we are with a great all around pcp air rifle. The Origin also comes in .25 caliber, if that’s your thing.

  Umarex has been making air guns for some time. In fact, they have all different types and styles, from spring air style through Pre-Charged Pneumatic, or “PCP” as they are commonly referred to. The Origin is a PCP style air rifle with a few unique attributes. The most notable attribute is Umarex’s “Ever Pressure Tank” system. The EPT allows you to fire a shot without having to fully charge the high pressure air tank. One might ask “How do you charge the Origin?” In this case, it’s from a high pressure hand pump. Think bicycle style air pump, but for pcp air guns. The Umarex Origin can be purchased with or without the pump. I received the version with the pump. Without it, you would need a high pressure air tank to get filled at an industrial or scuba store. Because it takes around 140 pumps to completely fill the Origin’s air tank, this is where the EPT system comes into play. If you only need 1 shot, you only need to put around 13 pumps into the Origin’s tank. If you completely fill the Origin’s tank, you can expect around 30-40, usable, full pressure shots.

  Even though the Origin is considered an entry level pcp air rifle, it is not. The Origin will do pretty much anything more expensive pcp rifles will do. For instance, it has a 1:19 twist rifled barrel that will shoot standard 22 caliber pellets, as well as 22 caliber slugs. The slugs are essentially a bullet and don’t have your normal pellet look to them. I did some experimentation and found that this particular Origin will fire up to, and including, 23 grain slugs with decent accuracy and velocity. More on that later. The Origin also has a built-in scope rail. This rail is unique in that it will accept 11mm dovetail mounts as well as standard picatinny/weaver mounts. A huge advantage of pcp air rifles is that any scope can be used. There is no need for a special air gun scope with a pcp rifle. Lastly, this not so entry level pcp has an adjustable trigger. You can adjust the trigger pull weight down to around 2.5lbs. It also has a “travel” adjustment, which is kind of like pre-travel. Then there is also an over-travel adjustment. Even with this adjustment, the trigger has more of an entry-level feel to it. It is not as crisp as I would have liked it to be. The Origin also comes with 2 ten round magazines. 

  Now that we have the general rundown of the Umarex Origin, let's get into it. The Origin is a side lever bolt action style, but only kind of. The cocking handle actually rotates out and back to cock the rifle. Pushing the charging back forward, loads one of the rounds from the magazine. When the magazine runs dry, the Origin won’t allow you to push the cocking handle forward, thus letting you know that it’s time to change magazines. The safety is behind the charging handle and is pretty self explanatory. The magazines worked well for me, though I do need to get 2 more of them, for a total of 4. The reason for more magazines is that I can get 40 full power shots out of a full air charge. The stock on the Origin is polymer and resembles a varmint style full length stock. I found the stock to be comfortable even though I don’t care for the semi-finger grooved pistol grip. The length of pull might be a tad long for some people. There are no sling studs or QD mounting points in the stock, so carrying it in the field might present a challenge. The complete rifle is fairly long also, at just over 43”. The air cylinder sits below the barrel and extends out to the end of it. It kind of gives the Origin an over/under shotgun look. The air fill port is on the bottom of the stock, just in front of the trigger. There’s a plastic dust cover that goes over it. The tab holding the cover from being lost, broke after about 5 uses. The dust cover still holds on, but no longer is attached when filling the tank. 

  The Origin performed far beyond my expectations. It is super accurate with the right velocities and pellet weights. I mounted up an Athlon Optics 2.5-15 and it is a phenomenal scope on the Origin. Part of the reason I chose the 22 caliber is the availability of pellets locally. The Crossman 14.3gr are everywhere. At full velocity, these can reach 1000 fps. Heavier H&N 21.14gr pellets average 950 fps. The Origin does have adjustable shot pressure so you can tune in velocities. I found accuracy improved if I backed this adjustment screw out 1 to 2 turns. These settings dropped the velocities about 50 fps, so not very much. Just like normal rifles, find the pellet or slug weight that works best for accuracy in your particular gun. I was getting under 0.5” groups at 25 yds with just about anything I put through the origin. With this accuracy, getting small game, like a rabbit, at 50 yds should be easy. My best group size was with 21.14gr H&N pellets. I shot a .258” 5 shot group with those. These shoot spectacularly out of the Origin. They also have a respectable velocity of 920 fps. The 21gr slugs also shot very well out of the Origin. They aren’t quite as accurate, but close. They have an average velocity of 880 fps. The slugs also have a way better ballistic coefficient. So much so that they are still going about 700 fps at 100 yds. For me, the 25gr and heavier slugs would keyhole at 25 yds, probably because of the barrel's slow twist rate. Because the Origin has little to no recoil, you can actually witness the pellet trace in the scope. PCP air rifles are not quiet, but they are hearing safe. The Origin is actually louder than I would have guessed, but it is not uncomfortably loud. It does have a built-in “moderator” which helps mitigate a little bit of the sound. 

  Filling the Origin with the included pump will help you burn some calories. The hand pump is easy to use, but requires a bit of actual strength to fill the Origin up completely. I actually had to put a bit of weight on the pump for the last 30-40 pumps. You are pumping up to 4500 psi in the Origin’s tank, so I get it. To attach the pump to the rifle, there is a little quick connect style fitting that you plug into the fill port. The Origin’s tank has a one way valve, so air in the tank won’t leak back out. I really wish the hose from the pump was longer, because you essentially have to lay the rifle on the ground next to the pump to fill it. The pump has a pressure relief screw on it. Take my word on it, release the pressure in the pump, with this screw, before removing the fill tube. Pressure will stay in the Origin’s tank almost indefinitely. So charge the rifle before you store it away. Then it will be ready to go when you want to use it.

  If you are looking at getting into PCP air rifles, you can’t go wrong with the Umarex’s Origin kit with the pump. It has everything you need to get started and costs under $400. The Origin is a fantastic air rifle with great accuracy. I am thoroughly impressed by what Umarex has done with the Origin. I never expected to like the Origin so much. If you are into air rifle hunting, or just want to have fun at the range, definitely go take a look at the Umarex Origin.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Entry level PCP air rifle with non-entry level performance

Target Market:

New PCP air gunners 

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Super Easy to Use .22 Caliber Multi-Pump PCP

  • Patented Pre-Pressurized Air Chamber Design

  • Shoots at Full Power with Fewer Pumps

  • 120 Pumps Per Fill

  • 40 Shots Per Fill

  • Develops a Full Power shot with 13 Pumps

  • Automatic Overpressure Air Release

  • 3-stage, 4,500 PSI HPA Hand Pump and Fill Probe Included

  • (2) Auto-Indexing 10-Shot Rotary Magazines Included

  • Compact Side-Mounted Cocking Lever

  • Combination Picatinny and 11mm Dovetail Optics Mounting Rail

  • Two-Stage Adjustable Trigger

  • 1,000 FPS with .22 Caliber Alloy Pellets

  • Barrel length - 23 inches

  • Overall length - 43.1 Inches

  • 1:19 twist rifled barrel

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

No included air pump  

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars at Umarex.com

Perfect first PCP

"Coming from a .177 brake barrel to the Origin .22 has been really satisfying! The gun is a pleasure to shoot and having a rotary magazine compared to using a break barrel is game changing. I did have trouble at first when I double fed the gun so don’t be an idiot like me can be very careful not to **** the gun twice and push two pellets into the barrel. I suggest purchasing an air gun cleaning kit with a rod to go with your new air rifle. I shoot in my backyard at 25 yds the accuracy is a huge step up from my Benjamin Vaporizer. Recoil is virtually nonexistent and with a suppressor on the muzzle the impact of the pellet seems louder than it leaving the barrel. Pumping the gun from empty to full takes about 120 pumps and I get three mags out of it (30 good shots) before I need to top off. Using the pump is fairly easy but I can tell I’ll want a tank or compressor soon. Overall I’m very happy with my Origin .22 it is exactly what it needs to be. "

Link to other reviews:

Airgun Depot  

Price point:

MSRP = $379.99

Retail = Same on Amazon 

I need it now! Availability:

Umarex or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Includes hand pump

  • Ever Pressure system

  • Accurate

  • Combo scope rail

  • Price

  • Compatible with air gun slugs

Cons:

  • Trigger

  • Doesn’t include single shot tray

  • Fill port dust cover

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link:  Boyds At-One stock review 

Powertac M5 G2

  Once upon a time, I wanted a new pocket carry tactical flashlight. I liked the Powertac light that they had previously sent for review, but it was physically longer than I wanted. Then, Powertac came out with their M5-G2. This was almost exactly what I wanted in a handheld light. High lumens, good candela, and a shorter package. So I purchased one. A few months later, I received another one because of Powertac’s affiliate program. 

  The M5-G2’s normal functions are pretty intuitive. The tail cap button turns it on or off. It also has momentary on, if you just push the button down slightly. The button is recessed into the tail cap. I’m really glad that Powertac did this over the E9. It allows the flashlight to stand on end with the light going up and out. This way you can light up a whole room by setting the light on a table or floor without it falling over. When I say the button is recessed, there are still cutouts on each side, so that you can have easier access to the button.

Tail Switch

Mode selector / strobe button

  I also want to say that this light is bright. On “turbo”, which is the highest output mode, it produces 2030 lumens with 27,225 candela. Because of the candela, the beam on this light is pretty focused. This is good for lighting things up at longer distances. It also produces a noticeable “spot” in the beam pattern. I really like the beam pattern as I like to see what the flashlight is pointed at. Because of how bright the beam is, it does still supply plenty of light spill outside the “spot”. It will definitely light up a room.

Vehicle High beams

M5 G2 on Turbo mode

Turbo mode

  Along with the “turbo” mode, the M5-G2 also has 4 other brightness modes. All the brightness modes can be cycled through using the side button. This is, of course, after the light has been turned on using the tail switch. The side button is located at the front of the flashlight. Just push it once for every time you want to increase the brightness, from “firefly” to “turbo”. Whatever brightness you have the light set on when you turn it off, is what brightness it turns on at. The strobe function also uses the side button. Just hold the button down for about 1 second and the light starts strobing. When you want to turn the strobe function off, just tap the side button and it will return to the regular light. 

G43 for size comparison

  As mentioned, the Powertac M5-G2 has 5 levels of brightness. These levels are using the supplied 18650 battery. 2-CR123’s can also be used. See the chart below for these runtimes and settings. I found the “firefly” mode to actually be very useful in full darkness. It gives me just enough light to see what I’m looking for, but not too much to be blinding. It may also work as a good task light under night vision. I usually end up using the “medium” setting for everyday use. I usually turn it to the “turbo” mode before turning the light off, just in case I actually need the light for identification. I never use the strobe function, but some might.

  The M5-G2 comes with a lot of standard EDC light features. First off, it has a removable and swappable pocket clip. It can be swapped from top to bottom for either light up or light down carry. I’m not keen on the pocket clip as it is a little flimsy. If you catch it on something, it can either bend or pull off of the light completely. It’s a good thing I don’t use the pocket clip. In the box is also a wrist lanyard that hooks into the tailcap. If you like lanyards, this one is pretty decent. I like that the M5-G2 uses a 18650 battery and that it is included. To charge the light, Powertac includes a magnetic charger cord. This cord plugs into a usb on one end and then snaps onto the magnetic charging port at the front of the flashlight. The charging port is on the opposite side of the mode button. When charging, the mode button turns red. When finished charging, it turns blue. The M5 is also waterproof down to 2 meters. So yes, it does actually work underwater. But probably more important is that it will work in rain and snow.

  At a little under 5”, the Powertac M5-G2 is a good size. The smaller size, of this light, is exactly what I wanted. At 1” in diameter, at its largest part, it is extremely narrow also. To top it all off, it only weighs a hair over 4 ounces with the battery and pocket clip!

  As you can tell, Powertac did a really nice job with the M5-G2. It is everything needed in a good pocket EDC light. It’s bright, has good light throw, and is lightweight. Did I mention it’s only 70 bucks. If you’re looking for a good edc light option, definitely go check out Powertac lights and the M5-G2. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Small, bright EDC flashlight

Target Market:

Anyone needing a good EDC flashlight

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 2030 lumen max output

  • 27225 max candela

  • 330 meter throw

  • Magnetic charging

  • 2.5+ hour runtime on high

  • Optional CR123 use

  • Tail Switch Provides Both Momentary And Continuous Modes

  • Integrated Side Switch For Quick Access Of Different Modes

  • 6 Different Settings That Include 5 Levels Of Brightness Plus A Strobe

  • Anti-Slip Knurling And Matte Style Finish For Firm Grip

  • Removable Pocket Clip

  • Auto Memorization For All Settings

  • Reverse Polarity Protection Protects From Improper Battery Installation

  • Machined From Aircraft Grade Aluminum With Type Iii Anodized Finish

  • Tempered Glass To Resist Breaking And Scratching Upon Impact

  • Mountable With Optional Remote Pressure Switch

  • IPX8 Waterproof Submersible Up To 2 Meters Under Water

  • Length: 124 mm or 4.88”

  • Bezel Diameter: 25.4 mm

  • Body Diameter: 23 mm

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Other models available   

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars on Amazon 

Solid made and powerful light! 

I use this light for night time jogging or checking backyard woods. The throw distance is awesome and you can see all details clearly in the dark! It comes with magnetic charging as well! It is a durable, powerful, solid built light! Definitely will recommend this light to friends!

Link to other reviews:

PNW Outdoor Reviews   

Price point:

MSRP = $69.95

Retail = $59.46 with code “GGR”

I need it now! Availability:

Powertac or Amazon 

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Bright

  • Uses 1 - 18650 battery

  • Can stand on tailcap

  • Momentary on

  • Ultra low setting

  • Physical size

Cons:

  • Pocket Clip

Score: 8.00 Great

Favorite Link:  Atibal Optics

Expo Arms Patrol Series AR Upper

  Expo Arms has recently gotten into the AR-15 upper receiver market. They have a few options for pistols, SBR’s, and standard AR configurations. This particular upper is their Patrol series with a 16” barrel and A2 flash hider. If you didn’t know, Expo Arms is the in-house brand for Primary Arms and is sold exclusively through them.

  The Expo Arms Patrol Series is an everyday use AR-15 barrelled upper receiver. These do not come with a bolt carrier group (BCG) or charging handle. However when you order the upper, Primary Arms gives some drop down menus with discounted add ons, such as a BCG. The Patrol Series comes with a bunch of good specs: A 5.56 chamber, 1:7 twist nitrided 4150 cmv barrel, mid-length gas system, A2 flash hider, T-marked upper receiver, and a 15” M-Lok handguard.

  Barrels are an important part of any AR system. On 16” barrels, like this one, I like mid-length gas systems. They are smoother feeling and put less wear on components then a carbine length gas system. Being that the barrel is also salt bath nitrided, it will have a good lifespan and keep corrosion away. Expo Arms uses a SOCOM profile on the barrel. I like the profile as it gives strength and consistency without being heavy. Of course the muzzle is threaded and comes with an A2 flash hider installed. The barrel consistently shoots under 1 MOA for me with 69 grain match rounds. 

  Expo Arms uses their own T-marked upper receiver. This is a standard forged version made from 7075-T6 aluminum. It has a round style forward assist and a standard mil-spec port door. The whole upper is nicely machined and anodized. 

  To cover the barrel, and give you something to hold onto, is the 15” M-Lok handguard. This is a very nice, useful, no frills handguard. It runs a full top rail that is not sharp. The sharp parts of the rail have been deburred slightly. Along the other portions of the handguard are M-Lok slots. These M-Lok slots are every 45 degrees around the handguard, not just the standard of every 90. It’s a clamp on style handguard, but also has some anti-rotation tabs to keep it from rotating. I’ve never had a problem with these style handguards rotating on me, but the tabs are a nice addition. I really liked the Expo Arms handguard, I’d even consider it as a stand alone item. 

  If you’re looking for a good quality AR upper, the Expo Arms Patrol series might just be it. It has a lot of nice features for the price. In fact, I am still amazed at the 0.75” group I shot with it. Definitely go check out the Expo Arms series of stuff over at Primary Arms

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Quality 5.56 AR Upper receiver at a fair price

Target Market:

Anyone wanting a 16” AR upper

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 7075-T6 forged aluminum MIL-SPEC upper

  • 5.56 NATO chamber

  • T-Marked

  • 16" Patrol Series Nitride barrel

  • 41V50 Chrome Moly Vanadium Steel barrel

  • SOCOM barrel contour 

  • Mid-Length Gas System

  • 1:7 Twist Rate

  • 15" Expo Arms Patrol Series M-LOK Handguard

  • A2 Flash Hider

  • No BCG or Charging handle

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Various

What others are saying?:

Nothing as of publishing

Link to other reviews:

Nothing as of publishing

Price point:

MSRP = $349.99

Retail = Check Primary Arms for sales

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Nitride Barrel

  • T-Marked upper

  • M-Lok handguard

  • Full top rail

  • Accurate

Cons:

  • Doesn’t come with BCG or CH (options are available)

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link:  Walker Defense Nero Review

Civivi Conspirator

  As one may know, Civivi has a bunch of affordable knife options. The Conspirator is no different and possibly better. This knife uses a button lock instead of the more common liner lock, but still uses a common flipper to open it up. It is ever so slightly larger than some other knives from Civivi, but is light enough to make a very good every day carry (EDC) blade.

  The Conspirator comes in a variety of different options. Including damascus steel or wood handles. I chose a standard option with green micarta scales and a black stonewashed blade. I seriously thought about the wood handle ones because they look very nice, but decided on something more practical for everyday use. The Green micarta handles are nice. They are textured very little, but have a great grip. These particular micarta scales have a dullish, kind of papery, finish to them. It definitely gives them a unique look. The actual handle design is very simple also. It’s slightly curved where it needs to be and is large enough to actually grip. It has a deep pocket clip that can be swapped to the other side, if needed. The clip only allows for tip up carry. I like Civivi’s pocket clips. They are stout enough that I don’t bend them when they catch on stuff.

  What led me to the Conspirator was the button lock feature. Since I have other Civivi’s with liner locks, I really was curious how the button lock would compare. I have to say, it’s fantastic. The button locking mechanism locks the blade up tight. Then I just have to push the button to fold the blade back in. With a little practice, you don’t even have to touch the blade to close it completely. Some of this is a testament to Civivi’s super smooth ball bearing pivot system. 

  Civivi designed the Conspirator as a “flipper” style knife. So on the back of the handle, there’s a little nub that sticks up. Just run your finger over the nub quickly, and the knife blade flicks out and opens. The flipper has jimping on it for a better finger grip. Not surprisingly to me, the Conspirator opens extremely smooth with the flipper. One can also open the blade, by placing a thumb in one of the grooves on the blade, as if it had a thumb stud. Then there is the opening of the blade using the button lock. One can push the button lock down, then ever so lightly, flick their wrist, to open up the blade. I usually use the flipper, but all of the ways will work for one handed manipulation.

  One of the most important, and hardest to decipher, parts of the knife is the blade steel. Civivi uses Nitro-V steel for the Conspirator’s blade. Nitro-V is a higher grade knife steel, which is probably why the Conspirator costs a little bit more than other Civivi knives. Nitro-V is hard, tough, and can get very sharp. It is a stainless steel, so corrosion shouldn’t be a problem. The Conspirator didn’t hold an edge as well as I would have liked. But to be fair, I was pretty hard on this blade. I used it to pry out some wood staples and also mark lines on fence boards. So in the three months I’ve had it, I sharpened it for the first time recently. It sharpened fairly easily. Plus it does get super sharp!

  I am really impressed with the Conspirator’s blade design. It is a typical drop point style that has a taller profile than my Civivi Brazen. The taller profile gives the blade a little more strength and at 0.12” thick, it could be useful. The blade also has about an inch of jimping. This jimping gives a really good purchase for your thumb to rest on, especially if you need to put some downward force on the knife. Also on the blade itself, up toward the top, is a groove on each side. This allows different ways to open the knife, as mentioned earlier. With the chosen Conspirator option, the blade is coated black. The black coating is pretty durable. I have some light scratches in it, but nothing major. 

  Civivi knives come with a soft case. The case is a little zip up unit that has fake sheepskin stuff inside. Also included is a knife cleaning cloth. These cleaning clothes are great for wiping the knife down, or various other uses. These little additions aren’t needed, but they are appreciated.

  If you are looking for a very good EDC knife, the Civivi Conspirator is just that. It has a durable blade, doesn’t weigh a lot, has super smooth operation, and is sized to fit nicely in one's pocket. I am very pleased with the quality and function of the Conspirator. You can check it out at Civivi’s website or on Amazon.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Button lock, flipper style pocket knife

Target Market:

Anyone that carries a folding knife

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Overall Length: 8.11" / 206.0mm

  • Width: 1.44" / 36.5mm

  • Overall Height (Including Clip): 0.74" / 18.8mm

  • Blade Length: 3.48" / 88.3mm

  • Closed Length: 4.63" / 117.7mm

  • Blade Thickness: 0.12" / 3.0mm

  • Handle Thickness: 0.51" / 13.0mm

  • Weight: 3.82oz / 108.3g

  • Nitro-V blade steel

  • Grind: Flat

  • Blade Finish: Black Stonewashed

  • Micarta handles

  • Stainless Steel liners

  • Stainless steel Pocket Clip: Tip-Up,L/R

  • Ceramic Ball Bearing

  • Button Lock

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Black handle/gray blade, Damascus, Wood handle/gray blade

What others are saying?:

4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon 

I'm a little disappointed. I expected it to be extremely smooth. The look, the feel, the sound it makes is all top notch. But the button is a problem. It is clunky. I heard it's worse with the damscus but that's what I wanted. It is such a cool design with multiple deployment options which I absolutely love. But the button lock should have been improved. I have already taken apart and oiled. Didn't really help. I'm considering filing the blade down where it get a connection but I doubt it will graze it after being hardened. This knife should have been a 10/10. (I do wish the pocket clip was recessed but that's a nitpick)

All this being said, I like the design and deployment options so much I'm not returning. ( though I considering returning for the black micarta with Grey blade)

Link to other reviews:

Nothing but Knives 

Price point:

MSRP = $94.00

Retail = $79.90 on Amazon

I need it now! Availability:

Civivi or Amazon

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Blade shape

  • Size

  • Deep pocket clip

  • Ceramic ball bearings

  • Button lock

Cons:

  • Edge retention

  • No option for partial serrations

Score: 8.50 Great

Favorite Link:  JSD Supply


Grey Ghost Precision Sig P320 slide

  Grey Ghost Precision has been in the aftermarket pistol slide game for some time now. Not so long ago they introduced Sig P320 slides to their product line. I had been eyeing them since the introduction. Then Grey Ghost introduced an O.D. Green Limited Edition version. I love OD Green. So here I am, OD green slide in hand! 

  The Grey Ghost Precision Sig P320 slides come in two size versions. The Compact and the Full size, or GGP320C and GGP320. I received the GGP320 full size version 1. They are essentially the same for review purposes. I also believe the only difference between the Limited Edition OD Green and the standard versions is the color. Especially since they are all the same price. Both slides come “stripped,” Therefore you must install all the necessary parts to make it complete and functionable. 

  When looking at the GGP320, the first thing you notice is the optics cut. It is a multi optics cut that uses a shim system to mount the different optics. These shims position the optic so that it is mounted securely. The shims and screws are provided, so there isn’t a need to hunt around for the proper screws. If not using an optic, a Grey Ghost marked G10 cover plate is included also. The optics cut can be used with optics that have the RMR, Leupold Delta Point Pro, SIG Romeo 1, and SIG Romeo 1 Pro footprints. I ended up mounting a Swampfox on the GGP320 because it uses the RMR footprint. It mounted up securely and works great. 

  Now that we have moved past the optic, the GGP320 has some other noticeable features. Instead of being a completely solid slide like the stock P320, Grey Ghost put three window cuts toward the front of the slide. One is on the top and then there is one on each side of the slide. These lighten up the slide some and it also makes the barrel stand out a little bit. The top of the slide isn’t rounded like the stock Sig one is. Instead, Grey Ghost put a flat cut on top and an angle cut on each side of that. Standard iron sight dovetails are also machined in. Probably the most functional addition to the GGP320 is the aggressive slide serrations. Grey Ghost machines them into both the front and rear of the slide. These serrations are way grippier than the stock ones, but not enough to tear your hands up. Between the slide serrations they also put an inlet cut. In this inlet is “GGP” and “limited Edition” text. I like how the logo and text are not very large, I would say tasteful. 

  The Limited edition OD Green GGP320 slide, as well as the FDE option, are both cerakoted. The cerakoting puts a nice finish on the slide. However, mine does show some holster wear. I guess one could say it is the start of a battle worn finish. I am not worried about the wear since the slide is machined from 416 stainless steel and essentially won’t rust. Since I’m on machining. Grey Ghost says their slides have tighter tolerances. This leads to better performance. You can actually feel the difference. There is less noticeable side to side and up/down play in the GGP320 slide over the factory one. The GGP320 is so much better machined, that just installing it dropped the trigger pull on my pistol by ½ pound. This was with all the same parts as before, the only difference was the GGP320 slide. I was pleasantly surprised.

  Now down to why you are really here, what are my thoughts? The GGP320 slide is top notch. I have had zero problems with it. I love the OD Green. The shim system is pretty easy to mount optics on. Recoil seems about the same. It runs pretty much any ammunition from 115’s up to 147’s without any problems. The machining of the slide is nice with no noticeable machining marks. The iron sight dovetails are tight, but not too tight. Plus, if you just have a P320 fire control group, this makes for an excellent addition to your “build.”

  Grey Ghost Precision has done another excellent job with the GGP320 slide. The Limited Edition OD Green is different, but in a good way. It looks fantastic and performs just as well. If you are looking at building out a P320, or just want something that makes mounting an optic easy, this slide might be just what you are looking for. Go check out Grey Ghost Precision and all their pistol slides, you won’t be disappointed. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Sig P320 slide with optics cut and enhanced features

Target Market:

Those building a P320 or those wanting a new slide option with optics cuts

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Full length P320 slide for 4.7” barrels

  • Machined from 416 Stainless

  • Tighter tolerances

  • For 9mm only

  • Optic cut compatible with Leupold DPP, Trijicon RMR and SIG Romeo1 and Romeo1Pro

  • Shim plate and screws for optics included

  • G10 cover plate

  • Weighs 8.84 ounces

  • Aggressive slide serrations

  • Front slide window cuts

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Black and Grey DLC, or FDE Cerakote

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars at Rainier Arms

Nice addition to P320

 Nice addition to P320.I have a P320 as a backup competition gun with a Leupold Delta Point Pro mounted with a EGW mount on the rear sight cut. Nice to have a slide with a RMR cut. It was a drop in fit, it only required a minor adjustment for the optic. Overall, the gun feels lighter, not sure if cycles any faster or reduced recoil, but it is a nice upgrade.

Link to other reviews:

Nothing spotted at the time of this review

Price point:

MSRP = $439.99

Retail = $412.79 at Primary Arms 

I need it now! Availability:

Grey Ghost Precision or Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Tighter frame fit

  • Multiple platform optic cuts

  • OD Green

  • Decreased trigger pull by ½ pound due to tighter tolerances 

  • Drop on installation

Cons:

  • Holster wear on Cerakote

Score:  9.00 Amazing

Favorite Link:  Walker Defense Research

Dark Hour Defense MAGNESIUM DARKLITE handguard

  As one may have heard, I was building out a lightweight AR pistol and was in need of a lightweight handguard. Along comes Dark Hour Defense with their Magnesium Darklite M-Lok handguard. If you haven’t heard of Dark Hour Defense, they are a sister company of V Seven Weapon Systems. Dark Hour Defense is more of the “not as fancy” line, but still using the same technology and quality of V Seven. This makes the Dark Hour products more cost effective for the end user. 

  I decided on the Darklite handguard in the 9.2” length. I chose this length because I was using a 10.5” pencil barrel. Essentially, I didn’t want the handguard to extend over the muzzle, but also wanted it to cover the gas block. The 9.2” Darklite turned out to be just perfect. Dark Hour also has a 7.1” as well as sizes out to 18”. Outside diameter on them is 1.5”s wide and 1.97”s tall. The 1.97” height is due to the full length top rail. Inside diameter is 1.3” wide and 1.55” tall. 

  The Darklite handguard is super light! The 9.2” comes in weighing 4.23 ounces, on my scale, without any hardware. The barrel nut adds in another 1.13 ounces. Add in some mounting screws and the total weight is 5.64 ounces. I will mention that the weight listings on the Dark Hour Defense website are really close to the actual weight I measured. To get this lightweight handguard, Dark Hour uses an aluminum magnesium alloy that is 30% lighter than standard 6061 aluminum. It appears to be just as strong, if not stronger. Remember, this handguard also has a full top picatinny rail. The barrel nut is made from 7068 aluminum, which is harder and stronger than 7075 aluminum, but weighs less than steel by a good margin. All one needs to really know is that these are super light and strong.

  The Darklite handguard is pretty normal in other aspects except one. As noted before, it is running a full top picatinny rail. The M-Lok slots are at 3,6, & 9 o’clock. As of now, it is only available with M-Lok, because that’s the standard in my opinion. Instead of anodizing, Dark Hour uses a plasma deposition coating that gives a “tough ceramic-like coating with superior wear resistance compared to anodizing.” I’ll agree, this E-Cote finish, as they call it, is super tough. I haven’t even scratched it. Also, I had a QD point mounted to it and when I removed it, you couldn’t even tell it was on the handguard. It didn’t even leave a chip or indent. I kind of wish the Darklite had a QD point built in. That way I could connect a sling without adding the weight of the QD mount. The black color of this E-Cote finish matches the rifles anodizing very well and I like the durability of it.

  Installation of the Darklite handguard is pretty normal also. Install the barrel nut with the supplied wrench. YES, it includes a wrench! This is one of my favorite things. Every other manufacture, please do like Dark Hour Defense and include a barrel nut wrench with your handguards. The barrel nut may or may not need shims, mine was on the tight side without them, but still in specifications for torque. When installing the handguard tube, you may need to tap it on with a rubber mallet, or heat it up slightly. It is a nice snug fit. I just tapped it on and it worked fine. Dark Hour also includes a locator pin, so if your upper has this provision , you can use it for added rotational stability. I didn’t use the pin and have not had any problems with the handguard rotating. Lastly, install the 6 torx screws to spec, and off to the range you go.

  As usual, I’ve been trying to use the Darklite as much as possible. I really like it, but I like slim handguards, and at 1.5”s, it is just perfect. The Darkilite is a no frills, super lightweight handguard. They smoothed it all out and put angles and radiuses where they needed to be, like on the muzzle end of the handguard. The top rail portion is even pretty smooth, which is not an easy task with all those slot cuts. The price won’t kill your wallet either. At $195 for the 9.2”, it’s a great deal. Yes, longer ones cost more, but they are still a reasonable option for what you are getting. 

  The Dark Hour Defense Magnesium Darklite handguard is well worth checking out. You are definitely getting a quality lightweight handguard at a reasonable price, at least in the lightweight product category. I think Dark Hour Defense will be doing some more nice stuff in the future. Definitely keep your eye on them for cost effective lightweight products. You can check them out at https://darkhourdefense.com/

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Ultra Lightweight AR15 handguard

Target Market:

Those wanting a strong, lightweight handguard

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Aluminum Magnesium alloy

  • E-cote black finish

  • Length: 9.2"

  • Width: 1.5"

  • Height: 1.97"

  • Weight: 4.2 oz

  • ID of 1.3"(left to right) & 1.55" (top to bottom for gas block clearance)

  • 7068 Aluminum barrel nut

  • Includes barrel nut wrench

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Various lengths

What others are saying?:

Nothing found as of publication

Link to other reviews:

Same as above

Price point:

MSRP = $195.00

Retail = $189.15 at Optics Planet

I need it now! Availability:

Dark Hour Defense

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Super light

  • Full top rail

  • All sharp edges are deburred

  • E-cote finish

  • Small Diameter

Cons:

  • No QD mounting points

Score:  9.00 Amazing

Favorite Link:  Atibal Optics

Faxon 10.5" lightweight barrel, gas block, and comp

  I was looking at building a lightweight AR pistol, using off the shelf parts, that wouldn’t break the bank. Part of what I needed was a lightweight barrel. Faxon Firearms had exactly what I was looking for with their 10.5” pencil profile barrel. As a bonus, Faxon threw in their slim profile muzzle brake. So off to assembly I went.

  When the Faxon barrel first arrived, I weighed it on my scale. There’s a few reasons for this. First, I wanted to know the actual weight. The barrel alone weighed in at 14.53 ounces, so not even a pound. The same barrel in a 16” weighs about 20 ounces. Second, this Faxon barrel comes with a gas block, but no gas tube. Because I figured I wanted a total weight, I weighed it with a gas tube and the supplied gas block. Total usable weight was 16.26 ounces, so essentially a hair over a pound. Speaking of the gas block, a really cool thing about it is the pre-drilled hole so you can pin the gas block on with the supplied pin. The gas block also has set screws on the bottom to tighten it up. Having a pinned gas block is especially nice if you are expecting any type of hard use situations.

  The Faxon pencil barrel specifications are pretty standard. This one has a pencil profile. It is made from 4150 CMV steel, has a 5.56 NATO caliber and is 1:8 twist button rifled. Faxon QPQ Nitrides the whole barrel for corrosion and wear resistance. Because it’s a pencil profile, Faxon uses a 0.625 gas block diameter. Being a 10.5” length, it uses the carbine length gas system. To quality control their barrels, Faxon magnetic particle inspects them so that good barrels get sent out to the user and bad ones don’t. Lastly, the barrel is threaded the standard ½-28 and has a recessed target crown.

  Faxon also sent me one of their Slim 3-port muzzle brakes. This particular muzzle brake has an outside diameter of 0.620”. It screws directly onto the barrel threads and comes with a crush washer. The small outside diameter of this brake makes it possible to remove the gas block without removing the muzzle brake. This can be especially nice if you have to pin and weld a muzzle device on to meet a legal length. It is 2.125”’ long, so it will bring a 13.9” barrel to the legal 16” length. I however am using this on a pistol, so no need to pin and weld. When installing the 3 port muzzle brake, be extremely careful as the metal is softer than I realized. I rounded the corners of it with an open end wrench trying to time it properly with the supplied crush washer. Make sure your wrench is on the solid portion, not over a port. That crush washer is stronger than any I have seen. Besides my error in installation, the 3 port design actually works very well. I was a little hesitant due to the smaller size, but it performs as well as other 3 port comps I have used. It actually tamed the little 10.5”’s recoil down some. Now it is loud, but all compensators like this are. The slim brake also only weighs 1.12 ounces.

  The Faxon Lightweight barrel combo serves its purpose. I put it through some use during a “range day.” This is a training style match that the local club has. The barrel and comp both performed well with zero hiccups. Now that can’t be said about the shooter. I also did some accuracy testing at 100yds. The barrel averaged about 2-3” groups with normal ammunition. As expected, as the barrel heated up a little, the groups would string some, but I included it in the group sizes, so you can tell it’s not terrible. For a 10.5” barrel, the accuracy is fine for me because I don’t expect to use this pistol past 100 yds anyhow. 

  If you are looking into a super lightweight barrel, definitely check out the Faxon line of barrels. They are one of the few that come with a pinned on style gas block. The 10.5” barrel and gas block were just the lightweight stuff I was looking for. While you are over at Faxon, don’t forget to look at the slimline comp too.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Short lightweight barrel with a pinned gas block

Target Market:

Builders wanting a super lightweight barrel/gas block combo

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

Barrel:

  • 4150 CMV

  • Button Rifled 

  • 5.56 - 1:8 twist rifling

  • 10.5" Pencil profile

  • Carbine length gas system

  • QPQ Salt Bath Nitride finish

  • 1/2-28 threaded muzzle

  • .625" gas block diameter

  • Gas Block Journal Length: 1.1"

  • M4 barrel extension

  • Magnetic Particle Inspected

  • 11-degree Target Crown

  • Barrel weighs 14.53 oz

  • Weight with gas block and gas tube is 16.26 oz

  • Pin on gas block

Comp:

  • QPQ Salt Bath Nitride

  • Thread: 1/2"-28 TPI

  • Weight: 1.12 Ounces 

  • Length: 2.125 Inches

  • Outer Diameter: .620”

  • Caliber: .223/5.56

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Different lengths and calibers 

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars at FaxonFirearms.com

Top shelf quality. As a toolmaker I can pin a gas block but for the money it's not worth me setting up to do it. Beautiful work

Link to other reviews:

Closes I could find was for the 16” pencil barrel - HERE 

Price point:

MSRP:

Barrel - $195.00

Muzzle Brake - $59.99

Retail: Probably a little cheaper if you can find the same combo

I need it now! Availability:

Faxon Firearms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Super light

  • Pinned gas block

  • Optional muzzle brake that matches barrel

  • QPQ Nitride finish

Cons:

  • Accuracy 

Score: 8.00 Great

Favorite Link:  Gun Guys Garage

KORE Essentials Battle Belt

  If you go to the range a lot, or need something to hold a bunch of gear around your waist, a battle belt may be what you need. The battle belt gives you a great way of holding all the gear that you need around your waist. Like a holster, magazine carriers, IFAK, etc. Kore Essentials sent me one of their new Battle Belt kits, plus a hanger for when it’s not in use. 

  The Kore Battle Belt system comes with 2 belts, an inner and an outer, both of which are adjustable. The inner belt is 1.5” wide and has soft loop velcro on the outer side. The outer belt is 1.75” wide and has the hook loop velcro on the inner side. This is so you can put the inner belt through your belt loops like normal, and then just put the outer belt over it. This hook and loop style system has been in use for years and works extremely well. Now for the adjustable part. The inner belt just velcros onto itself for tightness adjustments. However, the inner belt has a portion of hex material. This Hex section is thinner than the rest of the belt, but still strong. The hex portion is made so that when you tighten the outer belt, it can flex and make the outer adjustment possible.

  Kore Essentials outer belt is where all the real magic happens. First, it has a track system that mates with an adjustable buckle. Yes, that’s correct, an easily adjustable outer belt. There are 20 little tracks inside the belt that the buckle can grab onto. Each track is ¼” apart. So essentially you have 5” of adjustment, or 2.5” in each direction. This adjustment is what sets the Kore Essentials Battle belt apart from the rest. It is super easy to adjust while wearing it. To loosen the belt, there is a little tab on the top of the buckle that you push away from your body. Just push it and either loosen the belt, or take it off completely. To tighten the belt, just push the belt in and the buckle ratchets over the tracks. It then holds tight when you find the right adjustment. The loosening tab can take a little getting used to, it can be hard to find when the belt is cinched up. There is also a velcro keeper that keeps the extra belt tang contained.

  The outer belt is stout. As Kore Essentials says "Outer Battle Belt is Nylon Web flanked by two rows of Molles, a Super-Fiber inner lining & proprietary Reinforced Power-Core™ center". What does that mean for you? Well, it’s super strong and not flexible, just what you probably want in a battle belt. The MOLLE allows you to easily attach all the goodies like magazine carriers, first aid kits, etc. The reinforced core lets you hand lots of weight on the belt without it flexing in the wrong way. Kore says it can handle up to 20 pounds of gear. I’m running a holster, IFAK, 2 AR mags, 3 pistol mags, and a dump pouch without any problems.  

  With most battle belts, you must decide what size to purchase, not the Kore Essentials one. Because of the way Kore Essentials does this battle belt, it comes large enough to fit a 48” waist. The Kore Battle Belts are made to be cut down to your specific size using their supplied measuring tape system. Just line up the tape with the end of the belt that has the track on it. Then cut the outer belt to your pant size and the inner belt to 1” less than your pant size. I did this first using my pant size that I carry IWB with, the belt was a little long, so I cut it down 2” to my actual pant size. The belts fits me great. The belts are pretty tuff, so use something really sharp, or really sturdy scissors. I used tin snips. Then hit the ends with a lighter or heat gun to keep them from fraying. Now that the belts are cut, you can install the buckle. Put the buckle on the outer belt, where you cut it, clamp it on and then install the screws to keep it super secure. Kore also gives you a crimp on end for the inner belt. I couldn’t get it to crimp on properly, it just wouldn’t stay. So I threw the metal clip away and just wrapped some duct tape around it.

  I have been using the Kore Essentials battle belt on most of my range trips. It really is a nice piece of gear. My biggest complaint, and it’s not just from Kore, is that the MOLLE isn’t spaced properly for most stuff to fit tightly. This is a 1.75” belt problem in general, not just the Kore Essentials one. My favorite part of the Kore battle belt is that it can be adjusted on the fly.  They also sent me a closet hanger, which is pretty neat. The buckle just clicks onto it and you can hang the belt in your closet.

  The Kore Battle Belt system is really that, a system. The two belts work seamlessly together. Having the ability to adjust your battle belt on the fly is great and Kore’s ratchet system works well for this. Being able to buy it as a one size fits most, is also pretty cool. The price is reasonable for what you are getting also. If you are in the market for a battle/duty belt, give Kore Essentials a look.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Adjustable Battle/Duty belt with inner velcro belt

Target Market:

Those needing a rugged, heavy duty range belt with MOLLE

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • Adjustable sizing

  • 2 belt system (inner & outer)

  • 1.75” wide outer belt

  • 1.5” wide inner belt

  • Holds up to 20 lbs

  • 24”-48” sizing

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Coyote and Ranger Green

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars @koreessentials.com

BEST BATTLE BELT I'VE EVER USED.

FRANCIS C.

As a security officer and firearms instructor I run through a lot of equipment. I 1st came across the Kore Essential belt systems about 3 years ago loved the idea of the ratchet system on the EDC belts been hooked on them ever since and that's all I've used. Then came the battle belt and I was more impressed than ever these belts are not only tough but they make your equipment float around your waist it's like you're wearing nothing at all. Although the belts are rated to carry 20 pounds you would have to carry a whole bunch of stuff to fill any kind of weight at least that's how I feel. I love these belts, good job Kore Essential, you hit another home run!!! I turned my students and other security officers on to your belt systems, they all love them, no bad reviews yet.

Link to other reviews:

The Armory Life 

Price point:

MSRP = $139.95

Retail = $139.95 at Glock Store

I need it now! Availability:

Kore Essentials 

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Stiff - in a good way

  • Adjustable 

  • MOLLE compatible 

  • Inner/outer belt system

  • Holds all my gear easily 

Cons:

  • MOLLE spacing isn't quite correct

  • Buckle latch can be odd to use

  • Frays where cut (lighter took care of this) 

  • Inner belt, crimp on end clamp sucks

Score: 7.50 Good

Favorite Link:  Gun Guys Garage

Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 10MM

Written by: Rusty Odom

1MM MORE PLEASE

  As maybe you can tell this article is about my review of the new S&W MP 2.0 10MM. Now that's a mouth full, but with Smith & Wesson you sometimes need a secret decoder ring to find out what gun you have. If you want to know more about the S&W decoder ring, check out the Handgun Radio podcast. These guys do a fabulous job getting you through the number codes of Smith.

  So let's begin with how it was received, when I showed up to my trusty FFL I got the generic cardboard box that most all of my S&W’s come in. I was not impressed by the packaging at all. Unlike when I have picked up my Sig’s, Caniks’ and even Glock’s they have all been in a hard plastic box that will double as a range box. Inside you had your typical owner’s manual, paperwork, gun lock and of course the pistol and two 15 round magazines. There are also several different palm swell back straps to fit most anyone's hand. There was also a bag filled with numerous optic mounting plates labeled with numbers. If you’re mounting an optic you will have to use the instruction manual and know what your optic’s footprint is to find the right plate. The particular model I bought has a SKU#13388, it is the 4.6” barrel, manual thumb safety and optics ready.

  Starting with the frame and working my way up I am going to give you a brief description. On the grip, where the magazine goes in, you will notice a cutout on both sides for easy stripping of the magazine if a failure happens. There is a takedown tool tucked neatly in the handle. Just rotate it and it comes right out. This also lets you change the backstrap panels out if you need to adjust for hand size. The stippling on the grip is nice and tacky, it is different from any other firearm I have and definitely felt good. The trigger guard is not square like a lot of other pistols, it is a little blocky, but has a nice round edge for the larger hand people to get a nice high grip. It has a nice undercut at the area where the trigger guard and grip come together. This helps out with the old “Glock knuckle” I get on my Glocks. Moving up the frame you will notice a 1911 style thumb safety, I would have not initially bought this model with a thumb safety but, that is all they had with the longer barrel length I wanted. The safety is ambidextrous and easy to get to and is not in the way. If you are a 1911 shooter you will feel right at home. It is tactile and has a nice sound when engaged and disengaged. The slide release is nice and tucked in with a raised fence around it. You might think of it like most AR lowers that have their controls tucked in. The frame also has an accessory rail at the end to accommodate your chosen gadgets.

  The slide has nice cutout scallops on the rear for easy gripping. The front of the slide also has a nice cutout, if you're a press checker you should like them as well. They all should be easy to grab with gloves on. The pistol comes with nice suppressor height sights that also make co-witnessing with a dot optic nice. The only concern I have with the optic cutout is the plastic plates for mounting your optic on. I would like to think there was a lot of R&D that went into it so that the plastic doesn't give and let the optic come loose and smack you in the forehead. I mounted a green dot optic from Swampfox, it is their Justice optic, I also put their Ironside Shield on it to protect the optic. This did raise the optic up a bit so the sights are just a little below the dot. 

  The takedown lever is fairly easy to use, but I would read the instructions before attempting it. Smith & Wesson has two different ways to do this procedure. Follow all normal safety procedures, lock the slide back, rotate the lever downwards. From this point you can use the disassembly tool located in the grip to push the sear down, then you can just pull the slide off. The other option is to rotate the lever down, let the slide go forward and then pull the trigger like a lot of other striker fired autos. The slide will then just come off the end. Reassembly is the same procedure just in reverse. 

Now let's get to the specs and then what I like and dislike about it.

  • Height : 5.6”

  • Length: 7.9”

  • Weight: 29.6 oz

  • Width: 1.3”

  So as you can see the specs are not too far off than any other full size striker fired handgun on the market. The pistol feels great in the hands, it has a natural pointability, the stippling is nice and stays in the hands. The sights are awesome, nice and tall and easy to pick up. I mentioned the thumb safety already. Now let us talk about the trigger. I have read other reviews and watched youtube videos about the new 10MM. I so wanted my trigger to not be, well mush on my finger. I dried fired my pistol for a week before I sent the first round down range, I practiced trying to find the reset and take up, just like I do on all firearms. Plain and simple, the trigger stinks, it is bad, it is like squeezing a french fry with your finger on the edge of the table. It just fell apart. There was no audible reset and barely a feel for it as well. Take up was ok then it just went mush. I want to say this is the first M&P I own, so I can't compare it to others. The other ones I have fired all had replacement triggers in them. So my solution to this problem was to dry fire some more. I did it everyday for about a month, so now I know where it is going to fall apart. 

  The shootability of the pistol is great despite the trigger, I handed it off to my 14 year old daughter and she ran it like a 9mm. The look on her face when she turned around was great, she could have caught flies in her mouth. I loaded the mags with Freedom Munitions 180gr FMJ, and shot about 300 rounds. The pistol ran great, it never missed a beat. Then I loaded up some Underwood 180gr bonded jacketed hollow points…….. This is where it was different, there was a big difference in recoil, it was still very comfortable and manageable. You could tell you had a hold of a hand cannon. This is where the memories of shooting my 44 mags flashed back, except I had 15 rounds of thunder in my hands. I had so many thoughts rushing through my mind, how many hogs can I take at once, can I double tap a deer at 50 yards, the bear won't have a chance once it is treed, lord have mercy if someone breaks into my house with this beast next to the bed. Lets just say if you have ever fired a center fired magnum revolver and liked it, you are going to love this. I love it so much I think I am going to name this pistol. I will take suggestions, just find me on Instagram @6gundaddy and let me know what a good name should be. Oh back to the review, once I started shooting the trigger issue went away. It is still bad, but you forget about it. I just trained around it. I think it goes with any firearm, that if you know the manual of arms, its strengths and weaknesses, and train with it, you will be just fine. Do I think Smith & Wesson should have put a better trigger in it? YES I do! With the technology that is out there today and so many aftermarket triggers, it could be better, but it is what it is. If everything was perfect I would not be writing this article.

  To end the review, I am giving this pistol a above average review, as you can tell I do not like the trigger or packaging, but that is just my personal opinion. It is going to be my primary hunting firearm for running hogs, black bears and deer in southeast Tennessee. I have always liked the challenge of hunting with a handgun. I do it every year, I swap out between my Blackhawk .357 and my Ruger Security 6 .357. With proper ammunition and training I think this pistol will fit into that notch that a lot of guys are arguing about online, the old 45 ACP or the 9MM. I just say let's split the difference, forget about the 40 S&W and call the 10mm the new big boy on the block in auto loaders. I see why there is a cult following for this caliber, it is fun, recoil is fun but not too bad, it can play a multi role of self defense, critter control on the farm or backpack hunting. This caliber will not let you down. 

Just a few side notes, if you buy one, you do not have to hunt for holsters, The frame size is the same as the S&W MP 45. So that is a plus unlike a lot of other new firearms on the market. The safety, it can be removed and you can order a safety block plug that fills the gap of where the lever was. I did do this one to mine because safety levers on striker fired pistols are not needed in my opinion. You can order the plugs for just a few dollars from just about anywhere.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Bigger than a 9mm

Badder than the 45 ACP

Blows the 40 S&W out of the water

Cult like following

Target Market:

Dedicated reloaders

People wanting something with magnum like power in an auto loader

Hunters

EDC

Those who like recoil

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product): 

Reliable

Easy to shoot

Holsters are the same as the M&P 45

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Compact version for CCW

10 round version for communist states

A version without a external safety 

What others are saying?:

Low bore axis

Smooth round contour

Grip texture is great

Link to other reviews:

Outdoor Life

Hammer Striker

Price point:

On par for most comparable striker fired pistols from a big company

From $599 to $665

I need it now! Availability:

Brownells

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • A quality product from the UA

  • 10mm ammo is available

  • 15 round magazines

  • Great sight

  • Grips are excellent

  • Optic ready

Cons:

  • Trigger is bad

  • Packaging with mine could have been better

  • Unsure of the optic mounting plates at this time

Score: 7.00 Good


Primary Arms IFAK Kit

  Primary Arms has been releasing new products left and right. They recently came out with their own trauma medical kit and a pouch to hold it all in. Well, they may have teamed up with North American Rescue for the supplies, which is a good thing. Many of us are big proponents of having medical gear, especially trauma medical gear, me included. Let’s not forget the knowledge of how to use that med gear also.

  The main part of this med kit is the Individual First Aid Kit, or IFAK for short. It has all the goodies you will need to stop major trauma, see the FNB’s below for the contents. It is also vacuum sealed, so if you want to leave it that way, you can. Or open it up and use it as a refill for your current kit. One big advantage to this IFAK kit is that it comes with a CAT tourniquet. Another nice addition in the kit are chest seals. I actually added an inhaler and some antihistamines, because you never know when you might be allergic to something. If you don’t know how to use some of this stuff, they include a little instruction card to help you remember. The card doesn't take the place of actual training, but it can help.

  Primary Arms then adds in their First Aid Pouch. Mine is in OD Green, but they have black, red, and coyote. It also comes with a little red cross patch so that others know it’s some sort of medical kit. The pouch itself measures 7” x 6” x 4.5”. It’s a nice size for all the stuff in the IFAK, but is a little large to mount on a duty belt. However, it could work nicely on a vest or on a bag. For mounting the pouch, it uses the standard MOLLE snap straps. They are permanently affixed to the back panel of the pouch. Speaking of the back panel, it is separate from the pouch itself. The back panel is a big chunk of soft loop. The main pouch just sticks to the backing. The back then has a strap that can be wrapped around the pouch to keep it more secure. I really like this mounting, that way the pouch can be torn off and used quickly, or taken to someone who needs it. There is a handle on top to help with the aforementioned. Of course, the pouch has 2 zippers that meet at the top to make access easy. Various elastic pockets inside give you a variety of mounting options for all the medical gear in your kit. There is some MOLLE on the front, in case you need to attach something to the front of it, along with a strip of soft loop above the MOLLE. Lastly, it has a top flap that can hold the tourniquet on the outside. It’s a good idea, I just didn’t think it is sturdy enough to keep the tourniquet in place under hard use.

   Luckily, I have never had to use any of my trauma gear. Except maybe a band-aid or two. The Primary Arms IFAK is still a great way to have it ready if needed. Since they are reasonably priced, you can throw one in your vehicle, backpack, or wherever you might think you’ll need it. If you just want a decent small medical bag so you can put your own supplies in it, that’s an option also.

  I’m really glad Primary Arms started putting all this trauma medical gear in one place. You can’t go wrong with this IFAK kit, it has all the supplies you might need in this size of kit. I’d definitely check it out, especially since you can just get the refill kit if you already have some sort of med kit/pouch. 

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

Individual First Aid Kit with tear away pouch

Target Market:

Anyone needing a first aid trauma kit

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

First Aid Pouch

  • 600D Construction

  • 7” x 6” x 4.5” 

  • MOLLE/PALS Compatible

  • Clam Shell Configuration

Kit

  • CAT Combat Application Tourniquet

  • Vacuum Sealed Bag

  • Patrolatum Gauze (3" x 18")

  • Emergency Trauma Dressing (4", Flat)

  • Blue responder gloves (Large)

  • Compressed Gauze

  • 1" Surgical Tape

  • Hyfin Compact Vented Chest Seal Dressing (Twin pack)

  • 1oz Eye wash solution

  • Safetec Burn Gel

  • Small 6.25" Trauma Shears

  • 10 flexible fabric bandages (3/4" x 3")

  • Ziploc Bag (2" x 5")

  • 2 Antibiotic Ointment

  • 8 Alcohol Prep Pads

  • Bleeding Control Instruction Card

  • Emergency Survival Blanket (52" x 84")

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Coyote, Black, or Red

What others are saying?:

As of writing, nothing on the Primary Arms website

Link to other reviews:

As of writing, I found no reviews

Price point:

MSRP = $139.99

Retail =

I need it now! Availability:

Primary Arms

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Includes all essential trauma kit needs

  • Tear away pouch

  • Quick access

Cons:

  • External way of holding tourniquet 

Score:  8.50 Great

VZ Grips - AR Grip

  VZ grips has been making handgun grip panels for eons. They also make rifle grips for AR’s and SCAR rifles. The rifle grips are made from VZ’s durable G10. Being that VZ is a sponsor of the Gun & Gear Review podcast, they graciously sent one of the AR grips with their Gen 2 Stipple pattern. Besides the Stipple pattern, VZ makes AR grips with 6 other textures, all of them have various color options available.

  With all the various color combinations available from VZ, I opted for the grip in all black. I mainly chose black because it would go with whatever rifle or pistol I chose to install it on. As previously mentioned, VZ does also offer two-tone grips and they are made from the same proprietary G10. These color options and patterns can give the VZ AR grip a fantastic look.

  The Stipple gen 2 pattern I opted for is VZ’s most aggressive grip texture, at least in their AR style grips. The Stipple pattern resembles a good stippling job. But, VZ’s stippling is done on a 4-axis CNC machine that cuts out the desired pattern. The pattern wraps around the grip for 270 degrees, however the front of the grip is not patterned. The Stipple pattern is sharp. If you have soft hands, this grip pattern will probably be way too aggressive for you. I would say it is almost too aggressive for me, but only almost. It is also super grippy. Wrap your hand around this thing and it is not moving. It doesn’t matter what kind of grime, oil, blood, or sweat you get on your hands, this Stipple pattern will give you a great grip! I am super satisfied with the texture.

  I first mounted the VZ Stipple grip on an AR pistol. I did this because I wanted to try it out on something different. This allowed me to shoot one handed with the Stipple pattern grip. The grip performed well in this application and didn’t feel overly aggressive. I then proceeded to try it on a rifle. Same thing, the grip performed well. I preferred using it on the standard rifle, as the grip angle seemed very comfortable with either the stock collapsed or extended fully. This says a lot for the 17 degree grip angle that VZ uses on this grip. The grip did feel a little odd when using it on the pistol, as a shallower grip angle would have worked a little better for me. But that’s no fault of VZ Grips.

  VZ has done a great job with the Stipple Gen 2 AR grip. I really like the super aggressive texture, some people might not, but VZ makes other textures that are more suitable for the less aggressive crowd. If you want to feel secure using your rifle in all circumstances, then definitely look into the Stipple pattern grips. VZ has definitely created a great AR grip.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame:

G10 AR grips

Target Market:

Those wanting indestructible, various grip texture, and various color grips for AR rifles 

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

  • 270 degrees of machined texture

  • Machined from a solid piece of G10

  • 17 degree grip angle

  • Standard Length of 4" over all

  • 3.6oz

  • Sharp Stipple pattern texture

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?

Lots of different color and texture options here - https://vzgrips.com/shop-all/rifles/ar15-grips/

What others are saying?:

5/5 stars at VZ Grips

This grip is incredible. Very aggressive. If you have thin skin, you better throw some gloves on. This thing is the real deal. 10/10 I recommend. And will use VZ on all future builds

5/5 stars at VZ Grips

I’m very please with this grip. I ordered the red and black full-size stippled grip and it looks fantastic. As another reviewer noted the texture is VERY aggressive. There is little to no chance of it sliding around in your hand. I imagine it would be great for active competitive shooting. I ended up carefully sanding some of the sharper points down just a bit and it’s much more pleasant on bare hands. A quick wipe with my cleaning rag and you can’t even tell they’ve been sanded. I’m quite pleased and would highly recommend!

Link to other reviews:

I couldn’t find any worth while

Price point:

MSRP = $85.00

Retail = 15% off using code “GGR15”

I need it now! Availability:

VZ Grips

Our Rating:

Pros:

  • Stipple pattern is super sharp and grippy

  • 17 degree grip angle

  • Color options

  • 1 piece design

  • Various grip patterns

Cons:

  • Some options can be too aggressive

  • More expensive than other grips

Score: 8.50 Great