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Archive for May, 2012
Made in America Costs More
Wednesday, May 9th, 2012Not knocking companies that build overseas. Some things need to be built there for a variety of reasons that we can get into later if you guys want to, but it costs more to build things in America. It’s that simple. Unfortunately, Americans have been sucked in by the big box stores and the notion that they can buy 4 T-shirts for $3. You can’t apply that same pricing model to products made by your fellow Americans. For one thing, the workers themselves make at least minimum wage. Additionally, there are a great deal of taxes and fees associated with running a business here in the US. And, everybody wants their cut, from the federal to the state to the county and city governments.
Then, there’s an entire supply chain involved in the manufacture of that product. In very simple terms, they provide the raw materials, transportation and physical plant to facilitate the manufacture and delivery of a product. They all employ people and their pricing is driven by their costs. And, don’t forget that pesky fuel cost that plays havoc with pricing across the entire value chain.
Finally, the merchant you purchase your Made in USA! product from has to make a buck. And remember, he has to pay employees and overhead and taxes as well. It all adds up.
We haven’t even delved into the costs of R&D which also have to be recouped. Some firms choose to see a return up front and then drop the price while others attempt to amortize cost over multi-year production.
I see a lot of grousing over pricing on here. Whether made domestically or offshore, a great deal of cost has to be captured and defrayed. It’s even more expensive to make it here. So consider what goes into a product when you look at a price tag. Don’t get sticker shock. Know what goes into the products you are purchasing. Be an informed consumer.
FirstSpear Cummerbund Retro-Fit Kit Offer
Wednesday, May 9th, 2012
FirstSpear wants to make it even easier for you to upgrade your existing armor carrier’s cummerbund with their 6/12 & TUBES Retro-Fit Kit. Designed to fit an armor carrier with a standard hook and loop flap design and rear MOLLE or cummerbund pass-through channel, the Retro-Fit kit accommodates soft armor and enhances the performance of your carrier with FirstSpear’s Tubes closure system and 6/12 PALS compatible technology.
For a limited time, you can trade in your old cummerbund along with $99 (normal price $155.98) and get a brand new 6/12 & TUBES Retro-Fit Kit.
Available in Coyote, MultiCam, Ranger Green, Khaki, and Black. This offer includes a free 6/12 pocket for holding a pistol mag, light, or multi-tool.
To find out how to get yours, visit www.first-spear.com.
Tactical Tailor Product of the Month – Extended Range Operator Pack
Wednesday, May 9th, 2012
Tactical Tailor is offering 20% off their Extended Range Operator Pack through the end of May. The Extended Range Operator Pack’s large main compartment is lined with six additional pockets for organization of smaller items as well as a full length heavy duty zipper that makes the pack a hybrid top/panel loader. The top of the bag includes a smaller storage pocket for items you need to access quickly with external bungee system to secure lightweight clothing articles. The outside is covered in PALS for the addition of pockets or equipment carriers. Finally, the load is supported by an aluminum and HDPE internal frame system.
Available in Coyote, OD, Ranger Green, MultiCam and UCP.
Elasto-Lok from National Molding
Wednesday, May 9th, 2012
National Molding has introduced a new addition to the Dura-flex family, the Elasto-Lok. It features quick attach split bars allowing it to be quickly mounted to PALs webbing. The adjustable shock cord secures or stabilizes the accessory onto the platform. To remove the item a quick flip of the locking tab and the item is free in seconds. National Molding suggests it for securing flashlights or other items and they claim multiple Elasto-Loks can be used for larger items like break in tools.
High Ground 3-Day Pack
Wednesday, May 9th, 2012
The new High Ground 3-Day Pack is a pretty innovative design. It includes multiple features such as –
Hard-Wire, Ultra-Light Frame
– Quick-Release Waistbelt
– Modular / Customizable Assault strap (optional)
– Cable-routing, Zippered Shoulder Straps
– 3 Liter / 100 oz Hydration Pocket
– Integrated Rain cover
– Compression Panel
– Side Accessory Pouches
– Main Compartment Access Points
– Carry Handle & Lash points
Available in Multicam and Coyote
BAE Systems Wins $75 Million Order for Protective Hard Armor Inserts
Wednesday, May 9th, 2012BAE Systems recently received a $75 million order from the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) to produce and deliver Enhanced Small Arms Protective Insert (ESAPI) plates. Since 1998, BAE Systems has produced more than 1.2 million hard armor inserts, including ESAPI and other SAPI derivatives, under various Department of Defense contracts.
“The ESAPI plate protects against multiple hits from small arms threats,” said Don Dutton, vice president and general manager of Protection Systems at BAE Systems Support Solutions. “These hard armor inserts help to save lives on the battlefield.”
The $75 million order is part of a new, three-year contract from DLA Troop Support. The total value of contract orders could reach approximately $236 million over the next three years. ESAPI plates are manufactured at the BAE Systems Phoenix, Ariz. facility, and deliveries are expected to begin this September and continue through August 2013.
“BAE Systems and its employees continue to demonstrate their commitment to producing top products to protect our troops worldwide,” said U.S. Representative Ed Pastor. “I’m proud of the work being done in my district to bring our men and women back home safely.”
Houston Police Officer Creates American Tactical Apparel
Wednesday, May 9th, 2012Houston Police Officer Brian Hoffner has created a new line of clothing called American Tactical Apparel. According to a report on Houston’s KSDK –
“Pants cost $150 a pair. They include 15 pockets, including one on the side that’s large enough to fit a handgun.
“I have a full-size GLOCK on. If I need it now, I simply pull down this tab and I draw my GLOCK and I’m ready to defend myself,” said Brian Hoffner, founder of American Tactical Apparel. “Nothing’s pulling anywhere. It’s totally comfortable. And a full-size gun concealed. It’s a necessity. Fifteen pockets for tactical use. For rifle mags, pistol mags, phones, cameras, ammunition, whatever you may need.”
www.americantacticalapparel.com
