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Archive for the ‘Advertiser’ Category

Taco Tuesday at S&S Precision

Sunday, January 18th, 2026

Join the S&S Precision crew Tuesday for FREE beer on tap, giveaways, raffles, and good vibes all around. Swing by the booth, grab a drink, score some swag, and hang with the crew. Don’t miss it!

Ops-Core Started Out As Artisent

Saturday, January 17th, 2026

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Back in 2014, I had an opportunity to visit Ops-Core’s new factory in Boston for a personal tour by founder David Rogers. The company started out as Artisent which made head protection like hockey helmets. Due to their location near Natick Labs they ended up doing some cool headborne systems work, including as part of Objective Force Warrior. Eventually, Ops-Core was spun off to do the military work and was later sold to Gentex who continue to innovate in the headborne systems space.

Below are some photos I took on that visit.

The shelves in the lobby contained a variety of head protection items from a multiple sources, but the developmental Artisent and Ops-Core artifacts in particular, are awesome. In addition to a couple of OFW/FFW models there are also technology demonstrators with early versions of features that are now standard in Ops-Core helmets.

Ops-Core.com

EOTECH Launches New EXPS3 HD, All Aluminum HWS

Friday, January 16th, 2026

Plymouth, MI (January 2026) – When something is ultra-tough and can withstand even the harshest conditions, you must ask yourself “Why would I want to make this even tougher?”  The answer is because you can.  For over 30 years, EOTECH has been manufacturing durable, dependable Holographic Weapon Sights for use in law enforcement, military, competition, hunting and recreational use.  It has become the go-to 1X optic you can count on.  HWS optics were designed to include a ruggedized aluminum hood that wraps around the housing of the sight to provide extreme strength and durability.  Until now.

New for 2026, EOTECH introduces the EXPS3 HD, featuring an all-aluminum housing. This Heavy-Duty model allows EOTECH to eliminate the aluminum hood and provide users with an enhanced field-of-view and better situational awareness.

The EXPS3 HD includes a few new features never offered in an HWS. First, the rubberized buttons that manipulate reticle brightness and NV settings, has been replaced with an easy-to-use rotary dial. This dial offers 7 daylight and 4 night-vision brightness settings as well as an OFF position. In addition, the dial offers an Auto-Brightness setting that automatically adjusts to surrounding light conditions, removing the need for manual adjustments. Lastly, the rotarydial allows EOTECH to incorporate Shake-Awake technologythat puts the optic in sleep mode after a period of inactivity. This programmable sleep mode can be set to 10 minutes, 1-hour, 12-hours, or disabled completely.  This feature works in all daytime, NV, and auto-bright settings and preserves battery life, while powering the optic on with only the slightest movement.

The EXPS3 HD weighs the same as the legacy EXPS (11.2 oz) and is powered by a single, CR123 lithium battery.  Integrated into the housing is a locking, adjustable quick-detach base that allows for immediate removal or attachment.  The trusty 68MOA ring and 1MOA aiming dotprovides uncompromising speed to target and accuracy. Both waterproof and fogproof, this battle-tested sight works even if the sight window breaks or becomes partially obstructed.

The HD model is ideal for close to medium distance engagements.  With its rugged metal construction and its ability to withstand extreme levels of recoil, it can be used with virtually any firearm and caliber.  The Heavy Duty EXPS3from EOTECH.  The tough just got tougher.

EOTECH EXPS3 HD Specifications:

L x W x H: 3.8″ x 2.3″ x 2.6″ (96.5 x 58.4 x 65 mm)

Weight: 11.2 oz (317.5 g)

Water Resistant: 33ft (10m) depth

Mount: 1″ Weaver or MIL-STD-1913 rail

Zero Adjustments: 0.5 MOA per click

Brightness:

7 daylight settings

4 NV settings (night vision compatible model)

1 Auto-Brightness

Power Source: 1 x CR123 battery

Battery Life: 1,000 continuous hours at nominal setting 4 at room temperature

Country of Origin: Made in the USA

MSRP: $999 (EXPS3HD-0)

For more information, please visit www.eotechinc.com.

See What’s New Gentex During SHOT Show

Friday, January 16th, 2026

EOTECH Introduces the EFLX-CE Closed Emitter Mini Reflex Sight

Friday, January 16th, 2026

Plymouth, MI (January 2026) – EOTECH is committed to delivering high-performing, dependable pistol optics that shooters can trust with their life.  This commitment continues with the introduction of the EFLX Closed Emitter (EFLX-CE). Dedicated to meet the needs of our customer base, the EFLX-CE provides a fully enclosed housing to protect the LED emitter from damage or debris.  

The EFLX-CE offers a durable, heavy-duty 7075 aluminum housing that provides a square viewing window.  Large, recessed, rubberized buttons are positioned on the top of the housing making adjustments easy for both left and right-handed shooters.  These buttons control eight daytime brightness settings, including an ultra-bright level and night vision setting.  And in case of catastrophic situations, a built-in rear iron sight is integrated into the housing to get you through it.

The EFLX-CE’s improved electronics offer selectable reticle options that include either a 3MOA aiming dot, 42MOA circle, or the circle/dot combination.  Slots on the windage and elevation screws have been enlarged to accommodate a tool, coin, or even spent brass.  These adjustments offer precise 1MOA clicks with the subtle audible sound and solid detent.

The EFLX-CE’s customized electronics offer a programmable sleep mode function.  Through simple button manipulation, users can choose between a 10-minute, 1-hour, or 12-hour sleep mode or disable this function entirely.  While enabled, and with even the slightest movement, the EFLX-CE can power up through its Shake-Awake technology.  A single 2032 battery provides approximately 25,000 hours of run time with the single dot and when it’s time to change the battery, an easy access, side-load battery compartment makes the process quick and straightforward.

The mounting configuration is compatible with both Leupold®Delta Point Pro™ or Shield® RMS-c™ footprints. Two torx flathead fasteners and a tool are included for mounting the EFLX-CE to the slide.

The hardened EFLX-CE removes the fear of LED damage or obscurity due to dirt, water, or other debris.  This lightweight, compact, and cost-effective optical solution was engineered with the professional pistol shooter in mind. Consisting of both foreign and domestic parts, the EFLX-CE is proudly assembled in the USA.

EOTECH EFLX-CE Mini Reflex Sight Technical Specifications:

  • Magnification: 1X
  • Illumination Source: LED
  • Eye Relief: Unlimited
  • Reticle: 3MOA dot, 42MOA ring, or ring/dot combination
  • Dot Color: Red
  • Weight: 1.46oz (41.4g)
  • Size: (L x W x H) 1.6” x 1.2” x 1.1” (41.2 x 31 x 28.2mm)
  • Windage/Elevation Adjustment: 1 MOA
  • Battery Type: 1 × CR2032
  • Battery Life: Approx. 25,000 hours at brightness level 5(dot only)
  • Daytime Settings: 8 (7 daytime / 1 Ultra-Bright)
  • Night Vision Settings: 1
  • Switch Type: Push Buttons
  • Mounting Interface:  Delta Point Pro™ and Shield RMS-c™
  • Housing Material:  7075 Aluminum
  • Housing Color: Black
  • MSRP:  $479

For more information, please visit www.eotechinc.com.

Tomahawk Performance Introduces CW / Combat Top for Cold Weather Operations

Friday, January 16th, 2026

Nashville, TN — January 14, 2026 — Technical apparel brand Tomahawk Performance has released the CW / Combat Top, a cold-weather combat layer engineered for military and law enforcement personnel operating in harsh environments. Designed specifically to be integrated with load-bearing equipment, the CW / Combat Top addresses the persistent challenge of maintaining warmth without restricting mobility or compromising breathability.

The CW / Combat Top is built as a midweight, under-armor solution that performs across both dynamic movement and static positions. The garment balances insulation, durability, and breathability to support extended wear during training and operational use in cold, windy, and wet conditions.

Thermal performance is achieved through Primaloft® Gold 40GSM insulation in high-exposure areas, paired with a DWR-treated MMI SAM1® face fabric across the shoulders and arms to provide durability and weather resistance under armor contact. The torso utilizes Polartec® WindPro™, offering breathable wind protection and effective moisture management where heat buildup is most common beneath plate carriers.

The CW / Combat Top is designed to integrate cleanly into existing cold-weather and armor systems. Key construction features include articulated elbows and gusseted underarms for unrestricted movement, an extended back to maintain coverage during dynamic activity, and adjustable cuffs and a tapered quarter-zip crew neck to help seal out wind, snow, and debris. Zippered bicep pockets with integrated stash pockets and reinforced 4” x 4.5” hook-and-loop fields provide identification and limited storage without interfering with equipment.

According to Tomahawk Performance, the goal was to create a new evolution of a challenging piece – one that can transition seamlessly between mission profiles and offer comfort in coldweather environments.

“Operations always took us in various locations and climates. Cold weather operations require the right equipment,” says Keith Walawender, CEO of Tomahawk Strategic Solutions. “The cold-weather combat top fits clean under your plate carrier. It solves the problem of staying warm without overheating under your armor in dynamic environments. The fit, function, and performance feel like it is built for the fight.”

The CW / Combat Top is available now through the Tomahawk Performance website and authorized dealer partners. 

High Speed Gear and Phokus Research Group to Showcase Collaborative Medical Solutions for Warfighters at SHOT Show 2026

Friday, January 16th, 2026

Visit Booth #72739 to See Modular, Combat-Proven Medical Systems Built for Operational Readiness

LAS VEGAS, NV – January 16, 2026High Speed Gear (HSG), a leading U.S. manufacturer of tactical nylon and load-bearing equipment, and Phokus Research Group, a recognized innovator in operational medicine and medical systems integration, announced a collaborative effort focused on delivering mission-ready medical carriage and treatment solutions for today’s warfighters. The jointly developed medical product solutions will be on display at SHOT Show 2026 in the High Speed Gear booth, #72739.

Built on shared priorities of durability, rapid access, and real-world usability, the partnership combines High Speed Gear’s battle-proven platforms with Phokus’ medical configuration expertise, providing purpose-driven solutions spanning Individual First Aid Kits (IFAKs) through Medic and Role 1 level systems designed for serious environments.

“Warfighters deserve medical solutions that are built for the reality of their missions, fast, intuitive, rugged, and reliable under stress,” said Allison Mitchum, Vice President of Sales & Marketing for High Speed Gear Products Group. “Working alongside Phokus allows us to take proven platforms and elevate them into complete, operationally relevant systems that help keep people alive when seconds matter. We’re proud to highlight these solutions at SHOT Show 2026 in our booth, #72739.”

Rob Hanna, CEO of Phokus Research Group, added: “This collaboration is about increasing medical readiness through intelligent design and consistent access to lifesaving tools. High Speed Gear brings decades of manufacturing excellence and field-proven durability, and together we’re delivering systems configured to support Tactical Combat Casualty Care and advanced care delivery in the most demanding environments. We’re excited to showcase what’s possible when two mission-focused organizations build together.”

Individual First Aid Kits (IFAKs) – Modular & Combat-Proven

ORK IFAK (Operator Response Kit)

The ORK IFAK (Operator Response Kit) is a Phokus-configured individual first aid kit built around the High Speed Gear Med Pak pouch, an established, battle-proven platform recognized for durability, modularity, and rapid access. By leveraging the Med Pak’s proven design, the ORK provides a flexible foundation for organized medical carriage across a wide range of operational roles.

Phokus configures the ORK in accordance with Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) guidelines to support mission-driven medical readiness, emphasizing consistent access under stress and customizable internal organization. Features include:

• Quick-access pull tab for rapid deployment

• MOLLE compatibility for flexible placement on kit

• Rigid internal organizer panel configurable with shock cord and elastic retention

• Built for speed and reliability during self-aid or buddy-aid

Manufactured by High Speed Gear in the United States and Berry-compliant, the ORK IFAK pairs a trusted pouch platform with Phokus’ configuration expertise to deliver a dependable, operationally relevant medical solution.

Medic & Role 1 Level Systems

Phokus Surgical Ruck (Patent Pending)

The Multi-Mission Medical-Surgical Ruck (M3R-SURG) is a collaboration between Phokus and High Speed Gear, engineered for damage control resuscitation (DCR) and damage control surgery (DCS). Developed to address the demands of advanced care for teams operating in austere, mobile, or forward environments, the system features an external aluminum frame to enhance load carriage. Unlike other solutions on the market, the Surgical Ruck was also designed to store personal sustainment gear (food, water, warming layers), critical for extended operations.

The Surgical Ruck is scalable, agile, and rapidly deployable. It features modular, clear pouches mounted on rigid back panels, enabling teams to configure layouts according to mission requirements. Intended for austere surgical sites, the Surgical Ruck enables the rapid setup of a DCR/DCS capability through internal hanging bags and instrument panels—supporting an efficient transition from movement to advanced care delivery.

See It at SHOT Show 2026 Booth #72739

Attendees are invited to visit High Speed Gear booth #72739 at SHOT Show 2026 to view these collaborative medical systems in person and learn more about how High Speed Gear and Phokus Research Group are working together to support warfighter readiness across mission sets.

Tracer Tactical Invites You to the Echelon Happy Hour at SHOT Show

Friday, January 16th, 2026

Come Join us for an Echelon Happy Hour Wednesday 2-4pm at our Booth 62308 and grab a free can of Echelon. While you’re there, take a peek at some of the new products we’re releasing this year.

tracer-tactical.com