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Archive for the ‘Ammo’ Category

Rheinmetall Manufactures 81mm Mortar Ammunition for the Swiss Armed Forces

Saturday, July 27th, 2024

The Düsseldorf-based technology group Rheinmetall has been commissioned by the Swiss Confederation to manufacture and supply 81mm mortar cargo ammunition. The total value of the order is in the mid double-digit million euro range. 

The entire scope of supply comprises 81mm MX2-KM mortar weapons from Rheinmetall EXPAL Munitions SA as well as 81mm mortar cartridges Cargo for illumination white light, illumination infrared and smoke discharge based on RP (Red Phospor), which are manufactured by Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH at the Neuenburg am Rhein plant. The delivery is scheduled to be completed by 2025 and includes various additional services as part of the product launch. 

The cartridges are qualified for the MX2-KM mortar of the Swiss armed forces and, together with the weapon system, form a mortar system in which both the ammunition and the weapon system are manufactured by Rheinmetall.

At the end of the qualification measures, the cargo cartridges were verified at a test site on the Spanish coast. The order underscores Rheinmetall’s expertise in the production of state-of-the-art steep-fire mortar ammunition.

SIG SAUER Broadens 6.8 / 277 FURY Offerings

Thursday, July 25th, 2024

During the recent SIG NEXT event in New Hampshire SIG announced that they would not only introduce an MCX SPEAR chambered in 6.8×51, but that they are also increasing the types of 277 FURY cartridges as well as offering a 6.8 ammunition for commercial sale.

277 FURY / 6.8 x 51mm Ammunition

The cartridge is unlike anything else out there and was developed by SIG Ammunition in 2017 at their plant in Arkansas. The design is 23.5% lighter than the weight of an equivalent energy cartridge (270 WSM) which exceeds the Army’s goal of a 20% weight reduction for the Next Generation Squad Weapon program.

In addition to being lighter, the case is also stronger. It features a unique hybrid case design which is made of two components, a brass body and steel head. Combined, you get more strength in the head where you need it, and a malleable case which works very well in the firing cycle. This allows the cartridge to withstand very high pressures, in excess of 80,000 psi, and right along with it, you get very high velocities.

277 FURY is the SAAMI certified equivalent of the US Army’s new 6.8 x 51mm hybrid-cased cartridge developed for NGSW. The commercial 277 FURY ammunition has been around for a while now and incorporates the 150 grain Nosler AccuBond projectile. It’s a boat tail bullet, featuring a polymer tip, copper-alloy jacket with a lead-alloy core and a thick heel. With this cartridge expect 3,000 FPS from a 16” barrel and an additional 30 FPS for every additional inch of barrel.

SIG Ammunition’s new 113 grain 6.8 ball cartridge from SIG is as close as you are going to get to the new XM1188 solid copper projectile ammunition being procured by the US Army for NGSW. It comes off of the same line and it’s produced to the same specs, meaning, you’ll see the same performance. Expect muzzle velocities above 3200 feet per second from a 16” barrel from this hybrid cartridge.

All told, you’ll have access to 6.8×51 hybrid ball in can (460) or crate (920), 277 SIG Fury Venari Hunting 130gr soft point (non hybrid), and 277 FURY hybrid match 155gr OTM as well as the currently available 277 Accubond and 277 ball (non hybrid).

There are a lot of rumors floating around out there about the NGSW program. One of them is that SIG isn’t delivering enough ammunition to the Army. This isn’t true. In fact, the availability of this commercial ammunition is proof that it isn’t so.

6.8 MCX SPEAR

When the Army adopted SIG new ammunition they also adopted two new weapons to fire it, the XM250 Automatic Rifle which is actually a belt-fed machine gun replacement for the current Squad Automatic Weapon and the XM7 Rifle which will replace the M4 carbine in units like the Infantry and Cav Scouts across the service.

Along with the commercial 277 FURY ammunition, the bolt action SIG CROSS has been available for a couple of years. In addition, you’ll now also have a semi-auto rifle chambered in 277 FURY. They are expanding the caliber selection of the popular MCX SPEAR platform to include 6.8 / 277 FURY in addition to the currently available .308 and 6.5 Creedmoor.

Just like the XM7 version, the 6.8 MCX SPEAR features a 13.3″ barrel so it’s an SBR. However, they are planning to introduce a pistol version now that stabilizing braces are back on the menu as well as a standalone upper for those who already own an MCX SPEAR rifle in .308. As with the 6.8 ammunition, the 6.8 MCX SPEAR is as close as you are going to get to NGSW without joining the Army and being assigned to one of the close combat units receiving the new gear.

Look for these new options soon.

www.sigsauer.com

HOP Munitions Fills the Gap Amid Vista Outdoor’s Uncertainty

Wednesday, July 24th, 2024

Hayesville Ohio, USA – [July 2024] – In light of recent news regarding Vista Outdoor’s ammunition division facing potential sale and shareholder uncertainties, HOP Munitions, a trusted U.S.-based ammunition manufacturer, is stepping up to provide American shooters with a reliable and high-quality alternative.

Vista Outdoor’s Market Challenges

Vista Outdoor, a leading ammunition supplier, is experiencing significant challenges that have led to concerns among shareholders and consumers. Speculation about potential sales or restructuring has introduced uncertainties in the market, prompting many shooters to seek dependable sources for their ammunition needs.

Impact on American Shooters

The instability surrounding Vista Outdoor’s future poses several risks for American shooters:

? Supply Chain Disruption: Potential changes in Vista Outdoor’s operations could lead to delays and shortages, disrupting the supply of ammunition for recreational, hunting, and self-defense purposes.

? Price Fluctuations: Restructuring or new ownership might bring price adjustments, making it difficult for shooters to plan their purchases.

HOP Munitions: A Trusted Alternative

Amid these challenges, HOP Munitions stands out as a steadfast provider of high-quality ammunition. HOP Munitions is committed to domestic production and strategic sourcing, ensuring a stable and reliable supply for American shooters.

Key Advantages of HOP Munitions:

? Consistent Supply: Despite industry-wide challenges, HOP Munitions has maintained a steady supply of ammunition through effective production management and strategic sourcing.

? High-Quality Products: HOP Munitions prides itself on producing ammunition that meets stringent quality standards, providing shooters with reliable performance for various applications.

? Domestic Production: By manufacturing ammunition within the U.S., HOP Munitions reduces dependency on foreign suppliers, offering a more secure and stable supply chain.

Navigating the Gun Powder Shortage

The ammunition industry has also faced a gun powder shortage, affecting many manufacturers. HOP Munitions has navigated this challenge by diversifying suppliers and optimizing production processes, ensuring continued supply even when others face delays.

Transparency and Communication 

HOP Munitions values transparency and has kept customers informed throughout the gun powder shortage, building trust and loyalty. This commitment to clear communication further distinguishes HOP Munitions as a reliable partner for American shooters.

SIG NEXT Opening Night

Monday, July 1st, 2024

Last week SIG SAUER launched a year’s worth of new product during a two-day event called SIG NEXT. This video is a great summary of launch night which was attended by hundreds of media, top SIG dealers, and SIG employees.

The launch includes:

P365-FUSE

P320-FLUX Legion

– ROMEO-X Enclosed optic

– MCX-SPEAR 6.8

– .277 FURY Ammunition

– CROSS-MAGNUM Sawtooth @ Signature Meateater Ammunition

– P226-X5 Reserve

– P226 40th Anniversary

– P320-X5 SX

– ECHO family of thermal sights

Several items are already shipping to dealers like the P365-FUSE and P320-FLUX Legion. Even then, expect a few more surprises throughout the year.

McAlester Army Ammunition Plant Successfully Completes Surge Outload Exercise

Sunday, June 30th, 2024

A week of bustling activity at the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant’s depot operations outload sites ensured the depot operations team executed its outload mission with a 100% completion rate and 19 hours ahead of the surge outload exercise scheduled stop time.

The exercise began on June 3 and was completed on June 7 with the depot operations team prepping and packaging almost 500 twenty-foot equivalent units in nine 12-hour shifts.

“The shipping of ammunition to the warfighter attracts a certain vigor from the MCAAP team. When experiencing this mission activity on the distribution pads, there just isn’t a greater feeling of patriotism that can be applied to our duty as Army Civilians,” said Todd Stone, MCAAP’s depot operations director. “It is simply moving to watch thousands of tons of ammunition, prepared and loaded by the MCAAP teammates, to be shipped to serve our nation. This is truly where the rubber meets the road.”

In coordination with the Transportation Engineering Agency, MCAAP sent munitions Outside the Continental U.S. in support of U.S. Central Command, U.S. European Command, and Presidential Drawdown requirements demonstrating the installation’s capability of ramping up outload requirements with short notice.

“I am extremely proud of the mission our depot operations team recently completed,” said Col. Gabe Pryor, MCAAP’s commander. “It can be difficult to operate as a well-oiled machine during a long-sustained outload, but the team welcomed the task and executed the mission with precision.

“The highly skilled workforce of MCAAP allows us to remain ready, reliable, and lethal at any given time,” Pryor added. “Our depot operations team worked diligently to ensure safety and readiness.”

The mission of MCAAP, a subordinate of the Joint Munitions Command, is to provide global sustainment across the Army through ammunition production, storage, distribution, and demilitarization. The government-owned, government-operated installation is housed on more than 45,000 acres and has the storage capacity of 6.3 million square feet.

By Julia Hawkins

G9 Defense .308 Win 145gr Barrier Blind Solid Copper Hollow Point

Friday, June 14th, 2024

Post Falls, ID. – (June 11th, 2024) – G9 Defense premium defensive ammunition, is pleased to announce the .308 Win 145gr Barrier Blind Solid Copper Hollow Point ammunition. The Barrier Blind Solid Copper Hollow Point from G9 provides exceptional barrier penetration, great expansion and 18? of penetration with nearly 100% of weight retention. Compared to other offerings on the market, the G9 Barrier Blind Hollow Points stand out in common barrier penetration and demonstrates zero to minimal deflection through windshields, car doors and big game animals’ bones.

The .308 145gr Barrier Blind Hollow Point is a non-lead alternative that performs better than traditional lead-based projectiles. By design, any traditional hunting bullet is going to result in exposing game meat to lead, and lead fragmentation appears in nearly every game carcass where the projectile expanded. The BBHP is compliant with CA law and can be used anywhere that hunting with lead is prohibited.

Thanks to state-of-the-art CNC manufacturing, the reliability of the G9 .308 145gr is exceptional.

Upon contact with intended target the BBHP opens to 2x to 2.5x the size of the bullet, producing a consistent 18” wound track every time. Nearly 100% weight retention and predictable penetration make this round ideally suited for hunting or defense. Due to the nature of CNC manufacturing, reliability far exceeds traditional jacketed hollow points. In conventional ammunition, the jacket often separates from the core spoiling any chance of uniform terminal performance. This is not the case with G9’s machined solid copper projectiles. The three petals open and do not fold over beyond maximum expansions during terminal impacts. The machined solid copper hollow point with cut fracture points represents the current pinnacle in hollow point technology.

The G9 Defense 145gr .308 Win is also available with Alpha Brass. Their Optimized Case Head Design (OCD) far exceeds performance standards typically associated with cases. Their innovative technology is combined with industry leading manufacturing standards and the result is second to none. Their elevated level of performance combined with uncanny consistency, makes their brass the obvious match for our .308 Win Barrier Blind solid brass projectile line. Expect single digit standard deviations and next level accuracy. Learn more about Alpha Munitions at www.alphamunitions.com

G9 .308 145gr Barrier Blind Specifications:

– Caliber: .308 Win

– Bullet: 145gr Copper Solid

– Velocity: 2950 fps (24” barrel)

– Packaging: 20-count box

MSRP: $58.99

If you’re a vendor looking to add G9 Defense’s unique and innovative ammunition to your company’s portfolio, click here. To learn more about G9 Defense and its state-of-the-art ammunition, please visit www.g9defense.com.

G9 Defense .308 Win 145gr Barrier Blind Solid Copper Hollow Point

Friday, June 14th, 2024

Post Falls, ID. – (June 11th, 2024) – G9 Defense premium defensive ammunition, is pleased to announce the .308 Win 145gr Barrier Blind Solid Copper Hollow Point ammunition. The Barrier Blind Solid Copper Hollow Point from G9 provides exceptional barrier penetration, great expansion and 18″ of penetration with nearly 100% of weight retention. Compared to other offerings on the market, the G9 Barrier Blind Hollow Points stand out in common barrier penetration and demonstrates zero to minimal deflection through windshields, car doors and big game animals’ bones.

The .308 145gr Barrier Blind Hollow Point is a non-lead alternative that performs better than traditional lead-based projectiles. By design, any traditional hunting bullet is going to result in exposing game meat to lead, and lead fragmentation appears in nearly every game carcass where the projectile expanded. The BBHP is compliant with CA law and can be used anywhere that hunting with lead is prohibited.

Thanks to state-of-the-art CNC manufacturing, the reliability of the G9 .308 145gr is exceptional.

Upon contact with intended target the BBHP opens to 2x to 2.5x the size of the bullet, producing a consistent 18” wound track every time. Nearly 100% weight retention and predictable penetration make this round ideally suited for hunting or defense. Due to the nature of CNC manufacturing, reliability far exceeds traditional jacketed hollow points. In conventional ammunition, the jacket often separates from the core spoiling any chance of uniform terminal performance. This is not the case with G9’s machined solid copper projectiles. The three petals open and do not fold over beyond maximum expansions during terminal impacts. The machined solid copper hollow point with cut fracture points represents the current pinnacle in hollow point technology.

The G9 Defense 145gr .308 Win is also available with Alpha Brass. Their Optimized Case Head Design (OCD) far exceeds performance standards typically associated with cases. Their innovative technology is combined with industry leading manufacturing standards and the result is second to none. Their elevated level of performance combined with uncanny consistency, makes their brass the obvious match for our .308 Win Barrier Blind solid brass projectile line. Expect single digit standard deviations and next level accuracy. Learn more about Alpha Munitions at www.alphamunitions.com

G9 .308 145gr Barrier Blind Specifications:

– Caliber: .308 Win

– Bullet: 145gr Copper Solid

– Velocity: 2950 fps (24” barrel)

– Packaging: 20-count box

MSRP: $58.99

If you’re a vendor looking to add G9 Defense’s unique and innovative ammunition to your company’s portfolio, click here. To learn more about G9 Defense and its state-of-the-art ammunition, please visit www.g9defense.com.

Major Order for Ammunition: NATO Customer Orders Artillery Ammunition from Rheinmetall – Worth Almost €300m

Sunday, May 26th, 2024

A NATO customer has placed an order with Rheinmetall for the supply of artillery ammunition. The order comprises several tens of thousands of artillery shells and several hundred thousand propellant charge modules. The total gross value of the orders booked in the second quarter of 2024 amounts to almost €300 million. The deliveries will take place between 2024 and 2028.

The need to replenish the armed forces’ ammunition stocks resulting from the war in Ukraine has brought Rheinmetall major orders in the field of artillery ammunition. The new orders once again emphasise Rheinmetall’s leading technological position in ammunition development and production in Europe.