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Archive for 2019
FRAG OUT! #25 Is Now Available
Friday, August 2nd, 2019Coming Soon To A Foot Near You
Thursday, August 1st, 2019
This is the final draft of the upcoming Altama Maritime Assault Shoe in M81 Woodland, before the confirmation samples are made and production begins. They will be available in Mid and Low, in whole and half sizes.
Leupold & Stevens Submits GAO Protest On USSOCOM’s S-VPS Program
Thursday, August 1st, 2019Earlier this week, optics manufacturer Leupold & Stevens submitted a GAO protest of the U.S. Department of the Navy Surface Warfare Center Crane Division’s recent contract modification published on 18 July 2019, to the internal reticle under Solicitation No. N00164-18-R-JQ30 (“the Solicitation”) and Contract No. N00164-18-D-JQ30 (“the Contract”) for Miniature Aiming Systems-Day Squad-Variable Power Scopes (Second Focal Plane) to Sig Sauer, Inc. For this solicitation, Crane is working on behalf of United States Special Operations Command as their office of primary responsibility for lethality. SOF weapons and accessories as well as Visual Augmentation Systems are procured by Crane.
Leupold asserts that Crane improperly modified its contract with Sig Sauer and that the changes made to the contract were so substantial that the contract should be terminated and a new competition conducted for the modified requirements. The additional funding of the contract modification is so much when added to SIG’s winning bid that Leupold feels someone else would have been awarded the contract instead of SIG.
While the SIG Optics TANGO6T is at the heart of this action, it’s important to point out that the protest has nothing to do with performance. That hasn’t even been actually assessed yet as neither SIG nor Nightforce have delivered any production samples to the government. This is because USSOCOM decided to integrate a new reticle into S-VPS, the Tremor8.
When the program was created, a different reticle had initially been considered, but due to the adoption of 6.5 Creedmoor, SOCOM decided they wanted a bullet drop compensator reticle. Todd Hodnett had envisioned a new Tremor reticle and this was adopted, but in concept only. The reticle was sketched out on a napkin and included settings for 5.56 M855A1 as well as the new 6.5 CM round. Even when the optics had been selected and contracts awarded, the Tremor8 still did not exist. Just recently, months later, the reticle has finally been certified. Now that it has been certified, Nightforce and SIG can integrate the reticle into their scopes and deliver samples to the government for acceptance testing.
Both Nightforce and SIG will have to pay a license fee to include that reticle in the scopes the government will purchase, even though Nightforce shares an owner with Tremor8 creator Horus.
SIG’s winning submission to S-VPS (SFP) incorporated a proprietary wire reticle. While this was selected, SOCOM later decided they wanted an etched, illuminated Tremor8 reticle.
The additional cost of the integration of the Tremor8 into the SIG TANGO6T is what Leupold is protesting. Did the government violate its own requirement when it selected the SIG optic as submitted, or did the government select a product based on its own requirement and then direct the vendor to make changes which were costly? That is the heart of the question at hand. GAO will investigate the matter and make a determination. Possible outcomes are the status quo, a new solicitation, no procurement at all, or SIG being paid for at least a portion of the contract and a new solicitation being issued.
Read the redacted protest letter
here.
US Secret Service Adopts Glock 19 MOS Gen 5 in 9mm
Thursday, August 1st, 2019Earlier today in an internal message to the Secret Service, Director James Murray announced the adoption of the same technology as recently selected by the US Customs and Border Protection, the 9mm Glock 19 MOS Gen 5.
Everyone in Secret Service, including uniformed division members, will be issued the G19 MOS Gen 5 9mm to replace their current SIG 229 pistol in .357.
Additionally, SOD will issue the G47 MOS Gen 5 and G26 Gen 5 in 9mm.
Members will receive new equipment training and be issued the new sidearm along with Pistol light and Holster.
The weapons will be purchased off of the CBP contract and transition will be completed by 2021.
MasterPiece Arms (MPA) Introduces the MPA BA Precision Match Rifle (PMR) Competition “Ready” Rifle
Thursday, August 1st, 2019The MPA BA PMR “Competition Ready” Rifle configuration includes several key accessories, an MPA BA mount, and optic.
Comer, Ga. (August 2019) – MasterPiece Arms (MPA), manufacturers of the MPA BA Rifles and Chassis Systems, is pleased to introduce the MPA BA Precision Match Rifle (PMR) “Competition Ready” Rifle. This rifle is designed specifically for the Production Class requirements of the Precision Rifle Series (PRS) and has been approved for use within this division. The special “Competition Ready” configuration includes several key accessories, an MPA BA Mount and optic. MPA has packaged these items together to offer a tremendous value on the “Competition Ready” package with a special MSRP of $2,999.99 for the rifle and all included accessories. The value of the items included is $3,459 (MSRP), so the “Competition Ready” package provides approximately a $500 savings.
The MPA BA PMR “Competition Ready” Rifle utilizes the MPA BA Hybrid Chassis, which is machined on MPA’s CNC Horizontal Machining Centers to exacting tolerances from 6061 aluminum. The v-bedding system provides additional clearance for glass bedding action and straight section of the barrel. The chassis also includes a built-in inclinometer, thumb notch, lower mounted Picatinny Rail, 20 MOA Scope Rail, A2 Style Pistol Grip and is R.A.T. System compatible. The MPA Buttstock comes with an adjustable cheek riser and length of pull that is locked in position with a series of set screws that are embedded into the buttstock body. This is the same system MPA uses on its Standard BA Chassis but without the thumb wheels.
The MPA BA PMR “Competition Ready” Rifle includes an X-Caliber hand lapped 416R Stainless Premium Barrel Blank with a polished barrel finish. It is available in 26” for 6.5mm and 6mm and 24” for .308 M24 barrel profile. The chamber is indicated within 0.0001” or less to the bore of the rifle.
Additional items included in the “Competition Ready” package include an EVG Grip, Bag Rider, V4 Spigot Mount, MPA 30mm, 1.125, 0MOA Mount, MPA DN3 Brake and a Bushnell Forge Optic (RF4275BF2 – 4.5 – 27×50 FFP MRAD Forge Black Deploy MIL Riflescope, box).
MPA BA PMR “Competition Ready” Rifle Specifications:
Caliber: 6mm Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor, 308
Action: MPA/Curtis Short Action
Bolt: 60 Degree Bolt Throw
Chassis: MPA BA Hybrid Chassis
Chassis Weight: 3.5 lbs.
Rifle Weight:11.5 lbs.
Barrel: X-Caliber Hand Lapped 416R Stainless Premium Barrel Blank
Barrel Twist: Caliber specific
Barrel Length: 26” (6.5mm and 6mm); 24” (.308)
Barrel Muzzle Thread: 5/8-24 TPI
Barrel Profile: #M24 Contour
Coating: Cerakote Chassis, Polished Barrel
Length of Pull: 13.75 – 15”
Trigger: Trigger Tech Special
Trigger Pull: 1 – 3 lbs. (Customer Choice)
Magazine: AICS Type (10 Round Magpul/AICS Type Magazine Included)
MPA makes every effort to get the product to the customer as quickly as possible. These are hand-built precision instruments and not production components. To see MPA’s latest delivery and lead times for all Bolt Action Rifles and Chassis, visit masterpiecearms.com/bolt-action-rifle-and-chassis-current-delivery-times.
For more information on MasterPiece Arms and their product line of rifles, chassis systems, and accessories, visit www.masterpiecearms.com.
Team Wendy Adds New Shroud Accessory To Product Lineup
Thursday, August 1st, 2019Shroud Headlamp Adapter Lights the Way
Cleveland-based Team Wendy®, which designs high-quality helmet systems from the inside out, announced the release of its Shroud Headlamp Adapter, which restrains a traditional headlamp strap from sliding off the helmet shell during activity.
The adapter installs tool-free and allows for the attachment of any standard headlamp with an elastic strap that passes behind the lamp to be securely mounted to an NVG shroud. While it works on any helmet with a shroud, it was specifically designed for users of Team Wendy’s EXFIL® SAR Tactical or EXFIL® SAR Backcountry with accessory rails who may already have a traditional headlamp.
“We know our customers value the ability to easily attach their gear to their helmets,” said Team Wendy CEO Jose Rizo-Patron. “Team Wendy’s shroud headlamp adapter prevents them from needing to buy a different headlamp made specifically to attach to a shroud or accessory rails.”
The Team Wendy Shroud Headlamp Adapter retails for $9.99 and is now available for purchase on TeamWendy.com and through authorized Team Wendy dealers.
Two Exciting Announcements Today from Raine Tactical Gear
Thursday, August 1st, 20191. Raine has been issued a utility patent from the United States Patent and Trademark office (USPTO) on their Bridger product line and method of manufacture. The Bridger plugs and plays onto all FirstSpear® Vests & Plate carriers adding back the lost MOLLE real-estate from the Tubes™ buckles (Bridges the Gap).
Bridger Covers that work with all FirstSpear® vests and plate carriers are available on Raine’s website: www.rainetacticalgear.com/product/the-bridger and OP Tactical: www.optactical.com/rabrpaforfis
2. Raine Tactical has launched a new mobile friendly website at www.rainetacticalgear.com. Raine Tactical was founded in 1986 and has been outfitting America’s heroes ever since.
Check out their high quality belts, pouches, and rifle slings.
New Loyalty program members will earn a 10% discount on their first order.
Raine Tactical Gear
800-826-5354
Instagram: @rainetactical www.instagram.com/rainetactical
No More ‘Flight Suits,’ the Integrated Aircrew Ensemble Makes Debut
Thursday, August 1st, 2019Representatives from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, visited Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam July 8-12 to introduce fighter pilots and aircrew flight equipment professionals to some of the newest developments in flight-suit technology.
Team Hickam’s Hawaiian Raptors, comprised of members from the 199th and 19th Fighter Squadrons, have been selected to be the first aircraft operators to bring the gear, called the Integrated Aircrew Ensemble, into an operational capacity.
The visiting project managers from the Human Systems Program Office provided demonstrations, fittings and on-the-job training to F-22 Raptor pilots and the AFE Airmen who will maintain the state-of-the art ensemble.
“Being selected as the first unit, and also as the Air National Guard, over any other [major command] is definitely something to be proud of, said Senior Master Sgt. Michelle Davidson, 154th Operations Support Squadron AFE superintendent. “I think it says something about our work ethic and our integrity down here; that we’re willing to take on the challenge and be a part of this new process.”
Hawaii Air National Guard and Active Duty pilots were provided demonstrations and were individually measured for custom-fit equipment.
Unlike the currently used ‘legacy’ equipment, which had been piecemealed with additional support items over several decades, each component of the IAE has been designed to complement all other items. The IAE is built to support aircrew in all ejection-seat aircraft, to include fighters, trainers and bomb carriers. Its material has been influenced by recent advancements in sports technology to aid aviators who endure harsh flight conditions.
“It’s all strategically placed so items are not on top of each other; it minimizes the occurrence of friction, hotspots or wear-down on the system,” said Carl Medeiros, IAE program manager. “The material is also moisture-wicking, so it pulls moisture away from the body, removing and reducing thermal burden, while increasing mobility and comfort levels. When it all comes together, there’s a direct correlation and improvement to the physiological effects on the pilot.”
A combination of four layers can be used to support pilots in the face of natural elements and a wide range of mission sets. This includes a thermal undergarment for cold weather protection, a water-resistant environmental protection layer, a chemical/biological/radiological resistant layer and the coverall, which provides heat and flame protection.
While the new system will require additional familiarize training events for AFE Airmen, less man hours will be required to sustain and service the equipment. Developments, such as the new floatation device, make this possible, as it does not require sensitive munitions to activate and can be transported and handled without risks of explosive reactions.
According to Medeiros, the Hawaiian Raptors are projected to receive the IAE during the first half of 2020.
“Initially I think the buildup process is going to be quite tedious,” said Davidson. “It’s a big task to take on, but I think once the supplies are delivered and we’re all set up it’s going to be an amazing product for us to use.”
Story by SrA John Linzmeier
154th Wing Public Affairs
