XC3 Weaponlight

Archive for the ‘Ammo’ Category

Evolution Outdoor Launches Ballistix 3.5 Terminal Tray and Ballistix Jig Lockr 3.6 and 3.7 at ICAST 2026

Wednesday, July 15th, 2026

KILGORE, Texas – July 13, 2026 – Evolution Outdoor, a leading provider of high-quality fishing gear, is proud to unveil new tackle storage solutions at ICAST 2026. Among multiple product launches, Evolution Fishing will debut its Ballistix 3.5 Terminal Tackle Tray, Ballistix Jig Lockr 3.6 and Ballistix Jig Lockr 3.7. The trade show will take place July 14-17 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Evolution Outdoor invites attendees to visit Booth #4020 to explore its newest innovations designed to improve on-the-water organization.

“We’re committed to creating storage solutions that help anglers protect their gear, stay organized and spend more time fishing,” said Reece Martin, Evolution Outdoor’s director of marketing. “The new Ballistix 3.5 Terminal Tray and Ballistix Jig Lockrs were designed with real-world performance in mind, delivering rugged functionality and quick access to essential tackle when it matters most.” 

Ballistix 3.5 Terminal Tray

As the ultimate solution for terminal tackle organization, the Ballistix 3.5 Terminal Tackle Tray offers durability and convenience. The tray features a specifically measured layout to uniquely organize various hook and weight sizes in different tray sections. Each compartment is fixed in place to prevent misplaced hooks and weights, reinforced by the lid with drop-down ridges that seamlessly close over the bottom layout. Equipped with a rugged exterior and X-Rust Corrosion Rust Inhibitor, the Ballistix 3.5 Terminal Tray withstands wear and tear and protects its contents. With its single one-handed latch, anglers can easily access gear at any moment.

Ballistix Jig Lockr 3.6 and Ballistix Jig Lockr 3.7

With its silicone and foam ramp system designed for maximum efficiency, the Ballistix Jig Lockr elevates storage organization. Each jig slots securely in place with the hook in the top section and head resting against the ramp, preventing baits from shifting and keeping weed guards clear of the lid. Built into the rugged Ballistix body and sized in the 3600- and 3700- standard footprints, the Ballistix Jig Lockr boasts unmatched durability. It features a clear polycarbonate lid for quick identification, reinforced corers and an oversized steel hinge. Equipped with a waterproof gasket, labeled compression latch and X-Rust Corrosion Rust Inhibitor, the Ballistix Jig Lockr withstands wear and tear while offering maximum jig capacity.

 Item # / Description / Dimensions / MSRP

BLXTERM3500 / Ballistix 3.5 Terminal Tray / 9” x 5.75” x 1.6” / $17.99

BLXJGLKR36 / Ballistix Jig Lockr 3.6 / 11” x 7.25” x 2” / $29.99

BLXJGLKR37 / Ballistix Jig Lockr 3.7 / 14.25” x 9.375” (not including hinge) x 2” / $34.99

To receive updates on the release of these new products, sign up for Evolution Outdoor’s email list here.

To learn more about Evolution Outdoor and their range of products, visit their website at www.evolutionoutdoor.com. Stay updated with the latest news and updates by following Evolution Outdoor on Instagram or TikTok. 

Shell Shock Technologies Announces .50 BMG NAS3 Case

Friday, July 10th, 2026

Third-party live-fire testing confirms substantial velocity gains; production is underway with expected availability in August 2026.

Eubank, KY (July 2026) – Shell Shock Technologies, LLC. (SST), a leading innovator in the ammunition industry, today announced the completion of independent live-fire testing for its .50 BMG NAS3™ case, with results confirming significant velocity and performance advantages over standard brass at standard operating pressures. The .50 BMG NAS3 case was developed to meet the demanding performance and logistics requirements of military and law enforcement end-users, as well as extreme long-range precision shooters. Production is currently underway, and SST expects the .50 BMG NAS3 case to be available for purchase on its website in August 2026.

Testing was conducted by Vairog US, LLC on March 31, 2026, using a 650-grain Ball projectile, WC860 propellant, and a CCI No.35 primer in a 28-inch barrel. At a 265-grain powder charge and 66,770  PSI, the SST NAS3 case produced 3,111  feet per second. For reference, standard brass-cased M33 Ball ammunition typically produces approximately 2,910 FPS. Testing was conducted across nine charge weights ranging from 245 to 285 grains, with zero primer or case failures recorded throughout.

The velocity advantage is a direct function of NAS3case architecture. The SST .50 BMG case features approximately 13.5 percent greater internal capacity than standard brass, roughly 330 grains of case volume, versus ~290 grains, enabling a meaningfully higher powder charge at equivalent pressures. The result is greater muzzle velocity and downrange energy without exceeding the cartridge’s standard pressure envelope.

Weight reduction is equally significant. At approximately 33.7 grams, the SST .50 BMG NAS3case is roughly 40 percent lighter than a comparable brass case (~54.85 grams). Across 1,000 rounds, that translates to approximately 46 pounds of weight savings, a logistics and mobility benefit with direct operational relevance for military and law enforcement personnel managing load weight in the field. This is also a meaningful advantage for long-range competition and precision shooting disciplines where every equipment decision matters.

The NAS3 case’s nickel-stainless steel alloy construction also contributes to cleaner extractions, faster cooling versus brass, and corrosion resistance that supports reliable performance under sustained fire and adverse environmental conditions.

“The .50 BMG has defined long-range precision and overmatch capability for generations. What we’ve done with the NAS3 case is take that proven platform and fundamentally change what it’s capable of delivering. Independent testing confirms what our engineering told us: more velocity, less weight, same pressure envelope. For the military and law enforcement operators and long-range precision shooters who depend on this caliber, that’s not an incremental improvement. That’s a new baseline,” said Peter Foss, Managing Partner and CEO of Shell Shock Technologies.

The .50 BMG NAS3 case is engineered for professional end-users who require every performance advantage the platform can deliver, and for precision shooters pushing the limits of extreme long-range capability.

Keep up with Shell Tech’s advanced ammunition on the website and social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube.

Major Order from Ukraine: Rheinmetall to Supply Artillery Ammunition – Contract Value in the High Double-Digit Millions of Euros

Thursday, July 2nd, 2026

Ukraine has commissioned Rheinmetall to supply long range artillery ammunition. The order comprises 155-mm artillery shells and propellant charges in the low five-figure range. The contract value, which will be recognised in the second quarter of 2026, is in the high double-digit millions of euros. Production has already begun, and the contract is due to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.

The ammunition is being manufactured at Rheinmetall Expal Munitions in Spain. The ER02A1 B/B projectiles and the M203 propellant charges are already in use by various NATO countries. They can be fired from a wide range of 155 mm weapon systems and offer a long range and high effectiveness.

Rheinmetall continues to invest heavily in expanding the capacity of existing facilities and establishing new production sites in order to meet the growing demand for modern 155-mm projectiles and propellant charges. Rheinmetall is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of large-calibre ammunition. The Düsseldorf-based technology group has been expanding its production capacity since 2022 and aims to produce around 1.5 million 155 mm artillery shells per year by 2030.

New Ammo-Linking Machine to Save Air Force Millions

Thursday, July 2nd, 2026

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. —  

The 1st Special Operations Wing introduced a new 30 mm ammunition-linking machine at Hurlburt Field on April 21, 2026, an innovation set to save the Air Force millions by repurposing rounds from retiring A-10 Thunderbolt IIs for use on AC-130J Ghostriders. 

The initiative stems from the planned future retirement of the A-10, which will leave millions of 30 mm rounds without an assigned platform. The Air Force plans to transfer several hundred thousand of those rounds a year to Air Force Special Operations Command for use on the gunships.  

However, this transfer presented a logistical hurdle: the A-10 employs unlinked ammunition, while the AC-130J requires continuous belts for automatic, high-rate feeding. The new machine bridges this gap by connecting up to 15 rounds in seconds, shifting munitions management directly into the hands of Airmen rather than expensive external vendors. 

AFSOC has forged a partnership with the 116th Maintenance Squadron at Robins Air Force Base to accelerate operational efficiency. By integrating the specialized manpower and dedicated logistical infrastructure of the 116th MXS, this strategic initiative enhances our operational footprint while securing approximately $4 million in annual cost savings for the Air Force, directly reinvesting resources into warfighter readiness. 

“Vendors wanted roughly $9 million to do 200,000 rounds,” said a munitions functional manager assigned to Air Force Special Operations Command. “It’ll just cost the command around $10,000 in shipping charges to move ammo, but it’s a direct-cost savings.”  

The increased availability of ammunition will also support more consistent training among aircrews, increasing operational effectiveness.  

“Currently, we’ve restricted the air crews on how much ammo they can shoot,” said the munitions functional manager. “Being able to bring on all these extra millions of rounds from the A-10, we can get back up to a higher standard for our air crews to train at a much lower cost.”  

On the ground, the transition is expected to be seamless for maintainers.  

“It doesn’t change our process too much,” said a conventional maintenance crew chief assigned to the 1st SOW. “It adds one extra step, but it’s really not much different from what we do on a day-to-day basis.”  

AFSOC and its partners are targeting October 2026 for full implementation of the new machine, according to the munitions functional manager.  

“It’s neat to see something we’re touching could eventually be implemented for future ammo troops,” said the conventional maintenance crew chief. “I feel really privileged to be a part of that, and I think our guys here feel the same way.” 

With implementation on the horizon, the effort reflects the 1st SOW’s broader focus on innovation, devised to support the mission now and reflect the ever-changing global landscape. 

By Senior Airman Isabel Tanner

1st Special Operations Wing

Federal and Remington Awarded All Four Categories of FBI Rifle Ammunition Contract

Wednesday, June 24th, 2026

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) recently awarded Federal and Remington Ammunition—both part of The Kinetic Group (TKG)—one of the largest law enforcement contracts in TKG’s history. The contract is valued at $77.4 million. Federal was chosen to be the sole supplier in all four of the rifle product categories including Duty, Training Reduced Lead, Non-Jacketed and Jacketed Frangible ammunition. Remington, along with additional technology from HEVI, paired to provide the fourth product category in Jacketed Frangible ammunition. Delivery is expected to begin in 2026.

“This is a tremendous honor for our company. All our brands are humbled and excited to build and deliver ammunition to the FBI. It is one of the most prestigious contracts ever awarded in our long-established company history,” said CEO Jason Vanderbrink. “To receive an award in all four of the requested categories is an accomplishment we are extremely proud of. This is a great source of pride for our highly skilled American workforce dedicated to engineering and building the most advanced ammunition in the world.”

In duty, Federal will supply 5.56mm, 64-grain Premium® Tactical Bonded. In Training Reduced Lead, Federal will supply 5.56mm, 64-grain Modified Jacketed Soft Point. In Jacketed Frangible, Remington will supply 5.56mm, 55-grain Disintegrator Lead-Free product that includes HEVI’s powder metal core with a Remington jacket, and in Non-Jacketed Frangible, Federal will supply 5.56mm, 45-grain Ervin BallistiClean RHT.

Federal ammunition can be found at dealers nationwide or purchased online direct from Federal. For more information on all products from Federal or to shop online, visit www.federalpremium.com.

Remington Ammunition products are available at dealers nationwide and online. For more information on Remington ammunition and to sign up for product news and special offers, visit www.remington.com.

ROTTWEIL Extends Its International Defence & Law Enforcement Portfolio Significantly

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026

The prestigious ammunition brand ROTTWEIL known for its shotshell products launches fourteen (14) different product solutions for law enforcement and security agencies as well as special forces. Besides door breaching cartridges, ROTTWEIL’s portfolio now also carries a slug, buckshot, training as well as an anti-drone (C-UAV) range meeting the remarkably increasing demand for respective products and boosting the DLE portfolio of the German brand substantially. Shotguns have been part of the arsenal of armies and police units for over a century.

Even today, shotguns remain standard issue for armed forces and police forces worldwide.

The range of applications is vast, but the choice of ammunition remains crucial to the desired effect. The new ROTTWEIL DEFENCE & LAW ENFORCEMENT product line provides professional users with suitable ammunition that can be deployed effectively and cost-efficiently for a wide variety of purposes.

ROTTWEIL’s offer now encompasses three (3) slug, five (5) buckshot, two (2) training, and four (4) C-UAV cartridges.

• The three slug loads feature an outstandingly impactful 12/76 Brenneke Magnum EDP load with 38g for hard targets, one in 12/70 with 32g, and one in 12/67.5 with 28g, The latter two are both designed for soft targets.

• The five buckshot products come in two calibres: four in 12/70 calibre ranging from 32g (21 pellets #3) to 30g (9 and 8 pellets, #0 and #00 respectively) down to 20.5g (9 pellets #0) plus a 12/67.5 calibre in 18g (9 pellets #1). The latter two products have copper loads.

• The new training range of ROTTWEIL includes a steel and a hard lead product, in calibre 12/70 with 31g (#1) and 34g (#5) respectively.

• Three out of the four anti-drone or C-UAV product solutions come all in 12/70 calibre with two copper loads in 34g (#4 & #6), and the third one with hard lead in 34g (#4). The fourth round is a lead load in 12/70 calibre featuring a special construction ensuring a tight and stable pattern effectively engaging drone targets.

The cartridges are suitable for use in both bolt-action and semi-automatic shotguns across all loadings. The use of high-quality, specially matched components and designs ensures reliable performance in a wide range of applications. Both requirements as well as product features are and will be defined in close collaboration with customers and users worldwide.

The international Eurosatory show, the global event for defence and security in Paris, France, offers the perfect platform to present the new portfolio to a selected professional audience.

More detailed information can be found on the website of ROTTWEIL’s brand and trademark owner, RWS based in Fuerth, Germany.

D&M Holding Company to Exhibit at Eurosatory 2026

Wednesday, June 10th, 2026

TAMPA, FL (June 8, 2026) – D&M Holding Company, Inc. (D&M), the global leader in delivering complete solutions for ammunition, primer, and propellant manufacturing facilities, will highlight its extensive capabilities at Eurosatory 2026 in Paris, France, June 15 – 19.

Held in the Paris Nord Villepinte Exhibition Centre, Eurosatory is the world’s largest biennial international exhibition for the land and air-land defense and security industries, featuring more than 2,000 exhibitors and 100,000-plus professionals from countries throughout the globe.

The D&M team will meet with customers and potential customers from around the world, as the company continues to expand its international footprint.

“As global conflicts continue to escalate, demand for reliable supplies of ammunition, primers, and propellant is soaring in the defense sector,” said Dan Powers, President and CEO, D&M Holding Company. “As the only company in the industry offering comprehensive solutions for manufacturing all ammunition components, including ammunition factories, primer factories, and propellant factories, D&M is a key partner to US allies and friendly foreign governments. We look forward to meeting with many current partners at Eurosatory and to discussing our state-of-the-art manufacturing solutions with potential new customers from around the world.”

D&M Holding Company and White River Energetics are in Booth # D309 in the USA Pavilion. To schedule a meeting during the show, email sales@dmholding.com.

USMC Issues Sole Source Notice for 5.56mm Anti-Drone Rounds

Monday, June 8th, 2026

According to a sole source notice issued last week, Portfolio Acquisitions Executive Marine Corps (PAE MC), Program Manager, Combat Support Systems (CSS), PdM Ammunition (PdM AMMO), Quantico, VA 22134, intends to enter into a sole-source negotiations and subsequently award an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contract to Drone Round LLC for the 5.56mm “L Variant” Anti-Drone Rounds. This effort is estimated for award December 2026.

Launched earlier this year, the 5.56mm Drone Round “L Variant” projectile separates into several pieces to act in a similar fashion to a shotgun, making it effective against drones.

According to the Marines, it is the only kinetic munition currently available in the commercial or defense marketplace that meets the Marine Corps’ strict minimum capability requirements for immediate c-sUAS defense. Specifically, this round is the only solution offering “drop-in” compatibility that requires no physical modifications, specialized upper receivers, or distinct weapon platforms to be operable in current-issue Marine Corps 5.56mm weapons (e.g., M27 M4, and M4A1). Furthermore, its deployment requires zero additional New Equipment Training or specialized occupational specialties, rendering it immediately effective upon issue. Failure to deliver this capability places an unnecessary risk to Marines and could lead to mission failure and loss of life. Market Research indicates that Drone Round LLC is sole manufacturer and reseller of this ammunition. The appliable North American Industry Classification System code is 332992, Small Arms Ammunition Manufacturing.