B5 Systems

Archive for 2011

Kryptek LEAF

Thursday, December 8th, 2011

Kryptek is developing a good following for their unique hunting camouflage and clothing line available through Cabela’s. Earlier today, they unveiled Kryptek L.E.A.F., which is a SDVOB (Service Disabled, Veteran Owned Business) that handles all of their government/military work. What makes this so significant is the timing. We didn’t expect to start seeing any of the proposed US Army camo patterns until after the upcoming down select announcement, but Kryptek LEAF just unveiled their full lineup. Go ahead and click on the image below to blow it up to full size so you can get a better feel for the patterns.

These four patterns make a family that shares common geometry but with complimentary color palettes for different environments. There is Highlander which serves as their Transitional pattern, Mandrake which is a Woodland design, Nomad for use in the Desert, and Yeti for Snow use. Not shown on this image are Urban and Typhon which are Grey based patterns for various urban applications.

Take a look at Highlander. It’s unlike anything we’ve ever seen before and they’ve done a great job of producing the illusion of 3D. As you can see, it looks great on a flat file. The question with not only these patterns but all of the Army candidates is, “Can they print it?” I’d say that this photo is a good indication that they can.

Kryptek on how it works:
Kryptek utilizes a multi-directional design to effectively conceal in a multitude of terrains that have either a lateral or vertical flow. The bi-level layering of the patterns incorporate background transitional shading and sharp random geometrical foregrounds to create a three dimensional effect that ensures the utmost in concealment at both close and long ranges. These components combined with colorations selected and matched based on input from testing and observations from Operators in the field make Kryptek Camo the ultimate in passive battlefield deception.

Kryptek LEAF will be officially unveiled at SHOT Show in Source One Distributors booth #8203.

www.kryptek.com/leaf

Raven VanGuard

Wednesday, December 7th, 2011

Hill People Gear has been offering the Raven VanGuard for some time now and I am intrigued with the concept. Available for both the Glock and M&P, the VanGuard was originally envisioned by Shay VanVlymen of Mindset Laboratory and manufactured by Raven Concealment Systems. It is designed to protect a pistol’s trigger from accidental squeeze while being stored in non-holster carriers such as day or fanny packs. The VanGuard is tethered so that during the draw it will pull free from the trigger guard. Hill People Gear sells them for use with their Kit Bags and Runner’s Kit Bags, but the VanGuard looks like it would be a good pairing with many carry options.

www.hillpeoplegear.com

Make Ready with Travis Haley: Adaptive Kalash

Wednesday, December 7th, 2011

Panteo Productions has introduced Make Ready with Travis Haley: Adaptive Kalash. With over 100 million Kalashnikov variants produced it is the most widely proliferated military rifle in history. For those operating overseas, chances are good you will run onto one and for those of us here CONUS, they are inexpensive and readily available.

Haley discusses various models you will encounter and goes over correct loading techniques, safety manipulation, and dealing with malfunctions. Additionally, he addresses common misconceptions surrounding the use of the AK platform at long ranges are addressed, along with establishing a zero that works for your situation.

Make Ready with Travis Haley: Adaptive Kalash will begin shipping at the end of December and pre-orders are already being accepted by Panteao.

www.panteaoproductions.com

Klymit Promo Code

Wednesday, December 7th, 2011

Klymit asked us to let you know about promo code THANKS4FREEDOM for 20% off Klymit products until Jan 10, 2012. We’ve written numerous articles about Klymit and really like their innovative approach.

While we’ve talked a lot about their sleeping pads don’t forget that they are an insulation company and their first products were clothing using NobleTek insulation. The inert gas based solution is an innovation that is safely and easily transported in HotShot cartridges which contain 8 grams of Argon gas and allows the wearer to use a valve to control the amount of insulation in the garment.

www.klymit.com

A Date Which Will Live in Infamy

Wednesday, December 7th, 2011

While today is the 70th anniversary of the Japanese attack on the US fleet at Pearl Harbor, it’s not hard for some to look at that day as ancient history and make the argument that by bringing it up every year, it perpetuates long held grudges. And to them I say, “Those who ignore history are doomed to repeat it.” Just consider my generation’s Pearl Harbor; the 9/11 attacks. Once again, America was the victim of a surprise attack that shocked the world. But, just like after Pearl Harbor, when America was attacked on 9/11 her citizens banded together and dealt with her aggressors.

So here is my salute to America’s Greatest Generation and more so to those who served in the military during the inter-war years. That was true dedication. Thank you for showing us the way. May we always follow your example. And, a moment of silence for the 2402 Americans who were lost on that day and the hundreds more who were wounded in service to this great Nation.

President Roosevelt called today, “A date which will live in infamy.” May we never forget it.

TacJobs – Interested in Working for Outdoor Research?

Wednesday, December 7th, 2011

One of the leading outdoor brands, and premier manufacturer of tactical handwear, Outdoor Research is seeking a Product Manager – Government Apparel Accessories. Here is a sampling of what the job entails and what OR is looking for in a successful candidate.

The Product Manager will be responsible for:
– Executing the design and development of technical, innovative and technologically enhanced products that meet the needs of OR’s customers and end users.
– Delivering products that drive company sales and profits.
– Demonstrating dynamic, visible and inspirational leadership to positively impact business initiatives, direction, and vision for team and peers.
– Managing and assessing business results, profit & loss and executing key initiatives.

Qualifications:

Experience
– Minimum 10 years work experience in a related position.
– 6+ years in management in the outdoor industry preferred.
– Strong understanding of apparel merchandising and sales.
– Experience in managing a diverse and creative group of individuals.
– Demonstrated ability to work with and inspire a broad range of individuals to work toward a common goal.
– Must have a track record in managing and developing procedures, implementing key sales initiatives and executing processes.

Skills
– Product management or apparel development skills.
– Commercial negotiation skills.
– Public speaking and presentation skills.
– Ability to understand and interpret a financial statement, and the key performance indicators (KPI’s) that drive business growth and profitability.
– Thorough understanding of technical outdoor equipment featuring and user requirements.
– Detailed knowledge of North American, Asian, and European suppliers for technical fabrications.
– Extensive knowledge of Asian manufacturing vendors.
– Thorough knowledge of Europe and North America technical outdoor equipment market.
– Strong verbal and written communication skills.
– Strong interpersonal skills.
– Computer literate.
– Fluent in English.

Personal Attributes
– Organized, good head for numbers.
– Energetic and enthusiastic.
– Pragmatic, tenacious, with attention to detail.
– Self-starter.
– Problem solver.
– Dedicated to getting the job done, but interested in having fun as well.
– Able to work and communicate in a culturally diverse environment
– Ability to adhere to deadlines

Requirements
– Available for 20-30% travel within the US and Asia.
– Interviewing, hiring, and training employees.
– Planning, assigning and directing work.
– Appraising performance rewarding and disciplining employees.
– Addressing complaints and resolving problems.

To apply, visit outdoorresearch.iapplicants.com.

Pink Towels Raise $5K for the National Breast Cancer Foundation

Tuesday, December 6th, 2011

NcNett’s Outgo brand raised $5K for the National Breast Cancer Foundation with a limited edition of their Ultra Compact Microfiber Towel.

During the months of October and November, Outgo offered its Ultra Compact Microfiber Towel in a pink color with an embroidered breast cancer ribbon. The towels were sold exclusively in Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) Military Clothing (AMCSS) stores.

McNett commented on the donation in a press release:

“McNett is committed to advancing NBCF’s mission of spreading knowledge and fostering hope in the fight against breast cancer,” said David Wiggs, marketing vice president. “It’s wonderful knowing that our $5000 donation will be used to provide free mammograms and diagnostic care services to underserved women in need.”

McNett’s corporate philanthropy efforts also include lending support to causes and events such as: Hunting with Heroes, Rivers of Recovery, the Oceans for Youth Foundation and the Take a Kid Outside Program. McNett also recently “adopted” a squad of troops deployed to Afghanistan, to which the company sends care packages and McNett gear monthly.

“It is important for us as a company to give back to those in need and to thank the men and women who sacrifice much to keep us safe, healthy and happy,” said Travis Huisman, chief operating officer at McNett.“We are honored to be able to lend our support to these worthy pursuits.”

We are big fans of the employees of McNett, their products, and a corporate culture that supports American troops. Thank you from SSD!

www.out-go.com

Coolest Christmas Present Ever

Tuesday, December 6th, 2011

The guys at Grey Group Training really outdid themselves this time. Their Christmas Stocking comes packed with tactical goodness and the contents are selected based on the amount you specify. This is a really good deal. According to GGT, “Each stocking will be up to a 50% discount from retail for the items included for your purchase price, so whether you are using it for a great gift selected by the professionals or a holiday grab bag at a great price for yourself, pick one up today for the holidays.”


**Picture is example only**

The stocking is MultiCam and Grey Group says that they reserve the right to randomly hook up Christmas Stockings with crazy extra gifts.

www.greygrouptraining.com