Tim Ralston, Founder of Gear Up and inventor / manufacturer of the CROVEL brand line of survival shovels, has announced the release of the X-CALIBER Survival-Rifle Gauge Adapter System.
I already know what you’re going to say, and yes, Mr Ralston shot his thumb on “Doomsday Preppers” but this is an interesting product. Similar products have been offered in the past but the X-CALIBER allows you to shoot 11 different caliber rounds from a single-shot 12 gauge shotgun using rifled adapters which are made from 7 inches of 4140 chromoly stainless steel.
Calibers include: .22 long rifle, .38 special, .357, 9mm, .45 ACP, .45 long colt, .410 shotgun as well as the base 12 ga shotgun. Additionally, X-CALIBER introduces .223, 7.62×39 and .308 to the mix. This means it could well be of interest to anyone who has an interest in scavenging ammunition. Granted, there are some serious considerations to make for dismounted use due to weight. But, additional inserts could be cached for later use.
You provide the base weapon which is a simple, reliable, break action design. It won’t raise undue interest as it is a commonly found gun, particularly in rural areas. Additionally, the X-CALIBER system will adapt to virtually any break action 12 ga.
The concept is certainly worth a discussion and some readers may consider picking one up.
Tags: Crovel, Gear Up Center, Tim Ralston
Pretty interesting idea however I wouldn’t want the kit I would want certain calibers. More as a way to get more use out of the break barrel.
Very cool concept. He should sell some of these individually.
Looks like he’s taken to the nth level a concept that’s been around for quite a while – but the 7 inch barrel length of the inserts would surely mean your ballistics would be quite compromised – wouldn’t it?
At a guess only the rifle calibers might be a problem. However inserts like this are intended for an emergency solution. Maximising accuracy and velocity arer secondary to having ammo someone can use.
I love this idea, but would be more prone to purchaseing individual peices or customizeable kits to go with what I have or what I would figure could be most likely scrounged in my AO.
Also, could some of these double up on calibers? Like the .410/.45 Colt, .357/.38 Special, etc.
The way I’m seeing it, some of them ARE doubled up. The exact ones you mentioned. That’s why there are 10 (X) Calibers and only 8 inserts. .22LR, 38 special/.357 (same insert), 9mm, .45acp, 45LC/.410 (same insert), .223, 7.62×39, & .308.
Because you answered your own question.
This is a great idea. Just like all the comments in the INCH posting if the world gets to be as bad a some believe Every Bullet for Every Caliber would count. This would be the ultimate set up for limited options.
I would want to see some accuracy tests first though. I mean, its a great idea but if you can’t trust your sights when you go to pull the trigger or each caliber goes off in a different direction it makes it a waste of ammo to try and use. You’d be better off at salvaging the powder and reloading at that point.
Agreed…we’ll see what we can find out.