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Marine Corps Awards OTAs to Assess Handheld Targeting Capabilities

Friday, December 14th, 2018

MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. —
Marine Corps Systems Command has awarded four Other Transaction Authorities to assess industry’s capability to produce a Next Generation Handheld Targeting System that is compact, rugged and lightweight.

The use of OTAs were approved by Congress in 2016 as a procurement method to pay for prototypes and to use nontraditional defense companies to spur innovation.

The OTAs were awarded to BAE Systems, Elbit Systems of America, Fraser Optics and Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation. The four companies will explore possibilities focused on the following criteria:

-The system’s overall ergonomics for supporting forward deployed, foot mobile users
-Target recognition, location and designation ranges during day and night operations
-The ability to integrate the system with the Target Handoff System Version 2 to view and manipulate target information
-Technological maturity, manufacturability and value engineering
-Sustainability at the operational user level

The Next Generation Handheld Targeting System, or NGHTS, is a single, lightweight, man-portable system that enables Marines to quickly acquire targets; perform guidance of against targets; and generate target location data during combat operations.

“During the first phase, the four awarded companies will explore potential system capabilities and provide Marine Corps Systems Command with an in-depth study of the best solution for our Marines at the best price,” said Megan Full, contract specialist supporting Program Manager Fires at MCSC. “We will collect the findings by the second quarter of fiscal year 2019 and choose one or more vendors to move onto phase two where they will develop and demonstrate prototypes.”

Currently, the Marine Corps uses four legacy systems: the Portable Lightweight Designator Rangefinder, Joint Terminal Attack Controller, Laser Target Designator and Thermal Laser Spot Imager. The intent is for NGHTS to replace all four systems.

“For the last four years, we have worked diligently to explore an option that condenses the legacy versions into one lightweight system with a reliable power supply that is rugged enough to throw onto a Marine’s pack,” said Jeff Nebel, Fire Support Coordination Team lead, PM Fires.

“The NGHTS will combine all of the legacy capabilities into one system that is compatible with both current and future fire support systems, and will support the Marine Corps for the next 15 to 20 years.”

“The NGHTS will be an important advancement because it is planned to reduce the current weight of the laser designation and laser spot imaging capability by 60 percent, which will increase the mobility and lethality of our fire support-focused Marines,” said Maj. Nathan Morales, Targeting Systems project officer, PM Fires. “This capability is focused on our ability to fight in the compartmentalized terrain outlined in the Marine Operating Concept.”

By Kaitlin Kelly, MCSC Office of Public Affairs and Communication | Marine Corps Systems Command

Posted in Contracts, Guest Post, MARCORSYSCOM, Optics | 3 Comments »

Sneak Peek – Thorntail6 from Haley Strategic Partners and Impact Weapons Components

Tuesday, December 11th, 2018

This new six position Thorntail Mount from Haley Strategic Partners and Impact Weapons Components is coming Q1 2019.

Posted in Optics, Weapon Accessories | 1 Comment »

Introducing the Atibal X 1-10x30mm First Focal Plane Scope

Tuesday, December 11th, 2018

Once again Atibal pushes the limits of high quality affordable low power variable optics with the all new Atibal X 1-10x30MM FFPMesa, Arizona, December 7, 2018 – Atibal has built a reputation of providing premium quality optics at mid-range prices and Atibal continues to push that envelope with the all new Atibal X 1-10×30; the only true 1x -10x magnification first focal plane scope for under $1000.

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In the past Atibal has developed innovative new products to further enhance the shooting experience all while maintaining a very reasonable price point and we back our products with exemplary customer service and an honest lifetime warranty.

In terms of comprehensive product development, the Atibal X is no exception. We have gone to painstakingly long lengths during the development of the Atibal X to ensure that all aspects of the X will exceed our user’s expectations for such a unique optic. With features like a daylight bright illuminated first focal plane MIL reticle, locking target turrets with positive adjustment feedback, 1/10 MIL per click adjustments, an integrated elongated low-profile magnification adjustment finger tab, fully multi-coated lenses, extra low dispersion high definition ED Glass, and 10x magnification ensure that the Atibal X will perform optimally in any environment. We have piggy backed on the past successes of our other low power variable optics and consulted with sportsmen and competitors in the world of firearms to develop a superior optic with practical and sensible features. The Atibal X is guaranteed to deliver on quality and affordability.

At $799.99, the Atibal X 1-10x30mm FFP scope is one of the most affordable 10x First Focal Plane scopes with a lifetime warranty on the market today.

Atibal is currently conducting a pre-order sale special for the Atibal X. Customers can purchase the Atibal X and save $150 by using coupon code: XNOMOUNT at checkout, or get a free 35mm Bobro Engineering scope mount ($250 value) by using coupon code: XWITHMOUNT at checkout.

Find out more about the Atibal X 1-10x30mm FFP scope by clicking here.

Tags: Atibal
Posted in Optics, Press Release | 5 Comments »

Shield Sights Announces the RMS-W Red Dot Sight

Friday, December 7th, 2018

12/4/2018 – Dorset, England, U.K. – Shield Sights is pleased to announce the release and full production of the RMS-W. The RMS-W is the water-resistant and ruggedized version of the existing Shield RMS line of sights.

The Shield RMS-W is designed to resist damage from water or other harsh environmental conditions. The RMS-W is gasket sealed to create a watertight fit between the slide and the battery compartment without the need of a special mounting plate. When the sight is properly mounted it will remain watertight at depths of up to 20 meters for 30 minutes.

The RMS-W also features a newly designed frame which adds thickness to the aluminum lens housing as well as a newly designed side profile. The RMS-W will also be the first sight in the RMS line to benefit from the newly developed hard coated polymer lens. These modifications have increased flex strength of the standard RMS sight by over 80% while maintaining the original viewing window and mounting footprint. The RMS-W will fit any slide that has already been cut for the RMS, RMS-C, SMS, or Jpoint.

Features:
– The RMS-W is machined from aerospace grade aluminum
– Gasket sealed to ensure consistent waterproofing
– Increased thickness of aluminum housing
– Hard coated polymer lens to resist scratching
– Very fast automatic brightness adjustment
– Very low profile to Co-Witness standard iron sights
– 2-3 year average battery life with standard CR2032 battery
– Weight: 17.6 grams / .62 ounces battery included

www.shieldpsd.com/portfolio-posts/reflex-mini-sight-waterproof

The RMS-W is available with the option of 4 MOA or 8 MOA dots with an MSRP of $499

Posted in Optics, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Leupold Mk 5 – Maybe The Best Scope They’ve Ever Made

Thursday, November 15th, 2018

After speaking with Leupold at AUSA, I realized that a lot of folks don’t understand that the Mk 5HD is actually a better optic than the Extremely popular Mk 6, in spite of the model number being lower. Apparently, there’s a lot of misconception over the naming convention.

In this case, the higher number doesn’t designate superiority, but rather describes the erector array. The Mk 6 is a six time erector, while the Mk 5 is a five time erector.

Additionally, the front focal plane Mk 5 is relatively new, having just been introduced about a year ago. It’s newer than the Mk6.

The Mk 5 is a 3.6-18×44 optic that is just over 12″ long and has a 35mm tube, while the older Mark 6 is a comparable 3-18×44 scope but is just under 12″ and has a 34mm tube. There is also a 5-25×56 variant of the Mk 5HD.

Featuring the all-new M5C3 ZeroLock adjustments, the elevation dials deliver 30 mils of travel, a full extra 10mm of travel thanks to the three full turns. The scope also comes with a built in throw lever and fast focus adjustable eyepiece.

Below is a side by side comparison of the two optics.

There are several reticle available.

Additionally, the lens surfaces are treated with DiamondCoat 2, an ion-assist lens coating which is actually optimized for higher light transmission.

And by the way, the Mk5 not only offers all of that, it’s also less expensive. So, it’s lighter, has more adjustment, a couple of extra features, and is less expensive. It may well be the best optic Leupold has ever built.

www.leupold.com/scopes/rifle-scopes/mark-5hd-3-6-18×44

Posted in AUSA, Optics | 9 Comments »

US Navy Expeditionary Combat Command Selects MOHOC Cameras

Tuesday, November 13th, 2018

MOHOC, Inc. delivers new Personal Recording System to Coastal Riverine Group 1

SEATTLE, WA. MOHOC, Inc., creator of the world’s first military-optimized helmet cameras, has been chosen to supply the Personal Recording System for the US Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC). After extensive competitive trial and evaluation through Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane, NECC selected MOHOC® Cameras over other video solutions. The tactically-designed and ruggedized cameras will be used to record both training and key mission activities.

Following the award, MOHOC recently completed delivery of over 2,000 MOHOC® Cameras and accessories to the US Navy’s Coastal Riverine Group 1 (CRG1). CRG1 conduct maritime security operations, defending high value assets and critical maritime infrastructure on both inland and coastal waterways. They are one of numerous groups under NECC now eligible to procure MOHOC® Cameras.

Eric Dobbie, Vice President of US Sales at MOHOC, commented, “We’re excited to support CRG1 with MOHOC® Cameras. We believe more NECC units and other branches of service will recognize the advantages of our field-proven helmet cameras tailored to the requirements of operators.”

MOHOC® Cameras feature a patented form-factor that provides a low-profile, helmet-contoured, and snag-free fit. They are ruggedized to IP68 rating (10m waterproof, 2m drop-proof), and easy-to-use in extreme conditions with simple, tactile controls. The cameras capture 1080p HD video and 12MP photos in visible light and infrared illumination, run on multiple battery types, and livestream video over wifi. Already deployed with Special Forces and SWAT Teams around the world, the NECC selection continues the trend of MOHOC® Cameras being adopted by broader Armed Forces and First Responders.

www.mohoc.com

Posted in Navy, Optics, Press Release | 9 Comments »

Hi-Lux Introduces Junior High Power Program to support state junior teams compete in CMP and NRA Service Rifle Matches

Monday, November 12th, 2018

For Immediate Release
Thursday, November 8, 2018

As part the ongoing commitment to help the next generation of CMP/NRA High Power competitors achieve their match goals, Hi-Lux has created a discount program for junior high powers teams on the scope specifically designed for CMPand NRA High Power “Across the Course” Competition. In addition, Hi-Lux will make a contribution to the junior’s team for every XTC14X34 Competition Rifle Scope purchased.

Randy Jackovich, the Arizona Scorpions Junior High Power Rifle Team coach, welcomed the program. His team has as found great success with the Hi-Lux XTC scope.“With Hi-Lux, several of our shooters achieved personal high scores, including our team captain who took home the President’s 100 Pin, the William Deneke Memorial Trophy award, Silver in the Freedom’s Fire, the Golden Eagle Trophy award, and the Mountain Man Trophy award.

Kade Jackovich used one to win Four Trophy’s this year at CMP. He has about 3,500 Rounds with it. It’s a great scope at a great value. You can buy three Hi-Lux scopes for the price of one NF.” The Hi-Lux XTC 1-4 X 34 rifle scope is specifically designed for CMP and NRA High Power “Across the Course” Competition. Featuring a 34mm objective lens for optimal light gathering, the XTC 1-4 X 34 has front objective parallax adjustment from 15 yards to infinity. Since stages for Across the Course matchesare set at fixed distances of 200, 300 and 600 yards, an adjustable parallax is critical in minimizing the parallax error.

Additionally, fine ¼ MOA click elevation and windage turrets allow for precise adjustment. The XTC 1-4 X 34 is the next generation of the Hi-Lux Close-to-
Medium Range (CMR) tactical scope and is loaded with advanced design features that truly put it in a class all of its own.

Team members can sign up for the program at https://hi-luxoptics.com/pages/across-the-course-junior-teams

For additional information on this or any other Hi-Lux Optics product, send us an e-mail at info@hi-luxoptics.com, call us at 888-445-8912 or visit us at https://hi-luxoptics.com.

Hi-Lux Optics, based in Torrance, California designs and manufactures top-quality, feature-rich, rugged optics at affordable prices. Hi-Lux guarantees the workmanship and materials of their scopes for life because they’re rugged and reliable optics built for the demands of law enforcement, military, hunting and competitive shooting.

Posted in Optics, Press Release | Comments Off on Hi-Lux Introduces Junior High Power Program to support state junior teams compete in CMP and NRA Service Rifle Matches

ADS Offering L3 Night Vision Device Sustainment Upgrade

Friday, November 2nd, 2018

I recently met with ADS Inc to discuss their new Night Vision Device Sustainment Upgrade Program with L3.

When the Army begins to field the new Enhanced Night Vision Goggle – Binocular (ENVG-B) to its Close Combat Forces, PVS-14s previously used by those forces will be redistributed within the Army.

That being said, there are hundreds of thousands of AN/PVS-14 night vision monoculars in service across all of the US services, our allies and with law enforcement agencies. Some have been in use for well over a decade. Most feature Green Phosphor tubes and are in need of an upgrade.

That’s what the Night Vision Device Sustainment Upgrade Program is about. ADS Inc teamed with L3 to offer upgraded tubes (un-filmed 2376 FOM White Phosphor). These White Phosphor tubes offer improved target identification and image clarity as well as decreased eye strain. They also work quite well with clip-on thermal enhancements like the Enhanced Clip-On SWIR Imager from Optics 1.

Tube replacement is relatively easy, meaning units can purchase the White Phosphor tubes and do the work themselves.

Alternatively, customers can send in the NVG and L3 will inspect the device and replace the tube. Many of these PVS-14s also need repairs or are missing parts. The program can make that happen as well.

Read about the upgrade program at adsinc.com/past-performance/l3-night-vision-device-sustainment-upgrade.

Tags: ADS Inc, L3
Posted in ADS, Optics | 1 Comment »