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Archive for the ‘Optics’ Category

SIG SAUER Electro-Optics ROMEO-M17 Receives NSN Designation

Tuesday, October 24th, 2023

NEWINGTON, N.H., – SIG SAUER, Inc. is honored to announce the ROMEO-M17 (RM17) red dot sight has been assigned a NATO Stock Number (NSN).  This distinguished designation is part of the continued modernization efforts of the Modular Handgun System (MHS) Program.  For inclusion on the MHS Additional Authorized List (AAL), the U.S. Army evaluated numerous pistol red dot sights, from multiple manufacturers, through vigorous environmental and performance evaluations and the RM17 and R2 achieved successful selection.  In fact, the RM17 stood above the rest as the best performing and most durable sight evaluated.  The issuance of the NSN to these products streamlines the procurement process for all NATO members and partner countries as an identified standardized material. 

The ROMEO-M17 (NSN: 1240-01-713-9795) was developed from the ground up for the U.S. Army’s Modular Handgun System and is the ultimate aiming solution.  The RM17 will withstand the rigors of the battlefield, featuring the proprietary SIG-LOC™ mounting system with bottom-mount technology and 5 interface points with the pistol slide, for an extremely strong and robust lock-up.  Combined with the side-mounted battery the sight has an extremely low position when mounted to the slide, offering a full sight picture and co-witness with the existing standard-height iron sights.

“The assignment of an NSN number is an exciting achievement for SIG SAUER Electro-Optics and the ROMEO product line.  With the global demand for these products the NSN assignment will allow for ease in the procurement process, the ability to increase our reach within the NATO countries, and faster deployment” said Andy York, President, SIG SAUER Electro-Optics.  “This assignment is also significant to non-NATO customers and civilians as the NSN designation does not come easily and signifies that the ROMEO-M17 has achieved a testing and use acceptance by the world’s most discerning military customers.”

The SIG SAUER Electro-Optics ROMEO-M17 is a mil-spec, fully enclosed and gas-purged red dot reflex sight with a distortion-free glass aspheric lens and is submersible to depths up to 35 meters.  Other features include a new and very robust flexure-arm adjustment system made of the same Beryllium Copper found in many riflescope designs, and a housing that is forged and machined from 7075 Aluminum with an integrated loaded chamber indicator (LCI) gas deflector and machined anti-reflection grooves on all rear facing surfaces for reduced glare.  The optic incorporates a high-efficiency point source red LED emitter, with 2 MOA dot/32 MOA circle reticle, independent brightness adjustment buttons, 15 brightness settings including night vision settings, and a side-mounted CR2032 battery compartment with a threaded battery cap so the optic does not need to be removed from the pistol for battery changes.  The ROMEO-M17 has a minimum continuous runtime of 50,000 hours at medium brightness setting, and utilizes MOTAC™ (Motion Activated Illumination), MAGNETAC™ (Magnetic Activation), and D.A.R.C™ (Dark Adaptive Reticles & Coatings) technologies. 

ROMEO-M17 Specs:

Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm

Reticle: Circle dot with 2 MOA Red Dot / 32 MOA Circle

Lens Type: Asphere

Brightness Adjustment Settings: 15 (12 Day / 3 Night Vision)

Water Resistance: Submersible to 20 meters

Overall Length: 2.4 inches

Overall Width: 0.9 inches

Overall Height: 1.1 inches

Mounting Footprint: SIG-LOC™ MHS

Battery Type: CR2032

Battery Location: Side

Weight (w/o battery): 1.5 ounces

Daniel Defense Announces Free Vortex SPARC SOLAR Red Dot Sight with Purchase

Friday, October 20th, 2023

BLACK CREEK, Ga. — Daniel Defense has partnered with another world-class manufacturer, Vortex Optics, to bring customers a very special limited-time offer. When customers purchase a new DD4™, DDM4®, or DD5® from DanielDefense.com or any Authorized Dealer from October 20 through November 18, 2023, they’ll receive a compact, lightweight, durable Vortex SPARC® SOLAR red dot sight—a $400 value—for FREE, compliments of Daniel Defense.

To take advantage of this special offer, customers simply:

1. Purchase a new DD4, DDM4, or DD5 rifle from DanielDefense.com or an Authorized Dealer from October 20 – November 18, 2023.

2. Visit danieldefense.4myrebate.com, provide proof of purchase, and fill out the required information on or before December 23, 2023 to redeem the offer.

3. Get a FREE Vortex SPARC Solar red dot sight—a $400 value!

Head on over and start shopping today at DanielDefense.com.

New Online Video Shows Off the Amazing GPOTAC 45 Spotting Scope

Tuesday, October 17th, 2023

RICHMOND, Va. (Oct. 13, 2023) — GPO USA, a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-quality, affordable sporting optics, has a new 6:57 video online that showcases the features and benefits of the incredible GPOTAC45 15-45×60 tactical spotting scope.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and designed specifically for precision long-range shooters both on the range and in the field, the waterproof GPOTAC45 15-45×60 spotting scope features a custom first-focal plane reticle that provides accurate sub tensions at all magnifications, Picatinny rails, fully multi-coated Porro prism lens system, both fine and coarse focus adjustments, and a unique honeycomb objective filter lens cap which minimizes objective lens reflection, ensuring your view remains clear and unobstructed, even in challenging lighting conditions. It is tripod mountable, measures 5.5×3.3×10.9 inches, and weighs it at a svelte 44 oz.

 

Notable are the Picatinny rails on both the side and top, allowing you to quickly and easily mount a Kestrel unit on the side and a red dot sight on top. As a special bonus, the PLR reticle in this spotting scope perfectly matches the first focal plane reticle found in the GPOTAC 4.5-27x50i riflescope. This seamless integration creates the ultimate scope and spotter combination, providing you with an unparalleled advantage in the field.

This informative video is available now at vimeo.com/manage/videos/872486102, as well as also live on the YouTube Precision Rifle Network, www.youtube.com/results?search_query=precision+rifle+network, and www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBDWis8ayKM.

Backed by GPO’s lifetime warranty, MSRP for the GPOTAC45 rangefinder is $1349.99. It’s available from GPO USA dealers nationwide, as well as on the company’s website, www.gpo-usa.com, where you can find information about the company’s entire line of high-quality, affordable riflescopes, binoculars, laser rangefinders, accessories, and much more.

Be sure to register for the GPO “Gear Up for The Range” Sweepstakes prize package which includes a GPO GPOTAC 4.5-27x50i premium tactical riflescope, a Mossberg Patriot LR Tactical in 6.5 PRC, 10 boxes of Hornady 6.5 PRC 147 grain ELD Match ammunition, a Vanguard Endeavor L 303 CGM full-size carbon fiber shooting tripod with gun mount, a Vanguard Porta-Aim and Talley Picatinny scope rings. One lucky winner will win the entire sweepstakes package. Entering the contest is easy. Simply go to the GPO Facebook page www.facebook.com/gpousaoptics or Instagram page www.instagram.com/gpo_usa and find the sweepstakes post and click on it, or visit the GPO promotional page located at gpo-usa.com/promotions.

Armasight Unveils the Ultimate Night Vision Kit for Unmatched Performance

Monday, October 16th, 2023

For Immediate Release – Northbrook, IL – Armasight, a pioneer and leading authority in thermal and night vision optics, proudly announces the launch of the Ultimate Night Vision Kit, setting a new standard in night vision offerings. This all-encompassing kit features a range of exclusive Armasight products, carefully curated to elevate the night vision experience. The Premium bundle is now available online and at select retail outlets, providing enthusiasts and professionals with an unparalleled night vision solution.

The Armasight Ultimate Kit represents a field-ready night vision bundle, catering to a variety of Armasight products including the PVS-14, BNVD-40, or BNVD-51 goggles, each available in Gen 3 White Phosphor. There’s also a Sidekick 320 or 640 thermal monocular option, coupled with either a MNVD-51 or PVS-14. Emphasizing simplicity and readiness, each night vision device is bundled with a unique and exclusive Armasight Gray color Team Wendy EXFIL bump helmet, the Armasight G95 Mount Designed and Engineered by Wilcox Industries exclusively for Armasight, the Watchman IR Illuminator, and a custom-designed Otte Gear helmet bag in Armasight Gray.

The objective of this comprehensive bundle is to streamline the process of achieving fully operational night vision capabilities, offering users a complete solution for their nocturnal adventures.

Armasight has proudly partnered with Elbit Systems of America, the largest US manufacturer of Gen 3 image intensifier tubes and the supplier of premium night vision to the US Military Special Operations Community. This collaboration ensures our customers have access to the finest, most reliable night vision tubes on the market. The battle-proven PVS-14, MNVD-51, BNVD-40, and the BNVD-51, known for their unmatched performance, durability, and reliability, come with the Armasight 3-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind and exceptional support.

The Armasight Ultimate Kit is now available for purchase at Armasight.com and through select dealers, empowering enthusiasts and professionals to experience the ultimate in night vision technology. Don’t miss this opportunity to equip yourself with the best in the industry.

Packages contain:

? Choice of White Phosphor PVS-14 Pinnacle, PVS-14 Pinnacle 2376, MNVD-51 Pinnacle, MNVD-51 Pinnacle 2376, BNVD-40, BNVD-40 2376, BNVD-51 Pinnacle or the BNVD-51 Pinnacle 2376

Plus, these items:

• Team Wendy EXFIL LTP Bump Helmet Rail 3.0 in Armasight Gray

• Armasight by OTTE Gear Night Vision Helmet Bag

• Armasight G95 NVG Mount Designed & Manufactured by Wilcox Industries

• Rayvn Rail + 2 PODs bridge for Sidekick systems

• Watchman IR Illuminator (NV systems only)

• 30mm Ring Mount (NV systems only)

• Battery Pack #206 for BNVD-51 & BNVD-40 systems

MSRP:

Armasight PVS-14 Pinnacle Premium Night Vision Bundle – $6,399

Armasight PVS-14 Pinnacle 2376 Premium Night Vision Bundle – $7,399

Armasight BNVD-40 Pinnacle Ultimate Kit – $9,999

Armasight BNVD-40 Pinnacle 2376 Ultimate Kit – $9,999

Armasight BNVD-51 Pinnacle Premium Night Vision Bundle – $9,999

Armasight BNVD 51 Pinnacle 2376 Premium Night Vision Bundle- $9,999

Armasight PVS-14 Pinnacle + Sidekick 320 Premium Night Vision Bundle – $8,499

Armasight PVS-14 Pinnacle 2376 + Sidekick 640 Premium Night Vision Bundle – $9,499

Armasight MNVD-51 Pinnacle + Sidekick 320 Premium Night Vision Bundle – $6,999

Armasight MNVD-51 Pinnacle 2376 + Sidekick 640 Premium Night Vision Bundle – $7,999

Video: Team Wendy / Armasight Helmet Kit – Available Now – YouTube

www.Armasight.com

Vortex Optics – Impact 4000 Ballistic Rail-Mounted Laser Rangefinder

Sunday, October 8th, 2023

We would be remiss if we didn’t share the recently released Impact 4000 Ballistic Rail-Mounted Laser Rangefinder from Vortex Optics.

With a range of 5 yds – 4000 yds, it incorporates the GeoBallistics Solver with a full, up-to-date bullet library allowing you to use one of the ten preloaded profiles for popular cartridges or create custom profiles. You can interact with the software via an app for your end user device.

Calculations rely on data from the on-board compass and exposed temperature, pressure, and humidity sensors. GeoBallistics Solver will also connect with with popular weather devices or local weather stations.

The Impact 4000 weighs 16 oz and its dimensions are 4.6″ x 2.5″ x 3.2″.

In the Box:

• Impact 4000

• Bluetooth Remote

• Bluetooth Remote Mounting Kit

• Easy Zero Tool Kit

• SureFit Cover

• Lens Cloth

• Custom Tools

• CR123 Battery

• CR2032 Bluetooth Remote Battery

vortexoptics.com/vortex-impact-4000-ballistic-rail-mounted-laser-rangefinder

EOTECH’s Distributor Awarded UK MoD Contract for SWESS Light Battle Systems

Friday, October 6th, 2023

Plymouth, MI (October 2023) – Viking Arms Ltd, a long-standing distributor in the UK for EOTECH, is proud to announce the award for a seven-year contract framework by the Dismounted Close Combat team, part of the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD), for the Procurement and Support of up to a total fleet requirement of 12,000 SWESS Light Battle Systems, subject to financial approval.

As part of the framework, Viking Arms and EOTECH will provide the Holographic Weapon Sight (HWS) EXPS3™ and the G33™ 3x Magnifier as a complete system. The EOTECH HWS is considered the fastest target acquisition CQB weapon sight available with true two eyes open, a proven solution that has been in-service with the UK Ministry of Defence for over 15 years.

EOTECH President, Dennis Finnegan commented, “We are very honored to be a part of this program. EOTECH’s history of supporting the United Kingdom’s warfighters along with our partner, Viking Arms, is a point of pride for everyone in our organization. We look forward to continuing to provide our weapon sights, lasers, and sensors that help make the UK Ministry of Defence a more successful and lethal force.”

For more information, please visit www.eotechinc.com

NDIA Future Forces Conference 23 Poster #1 – Upgrading Existing NVDs for Allied Nations

Monday, September 25th, 2023

The 2023 NDIA Future Force Capabilities Conference starts today and like last year, we are going to share a selection of the posters presented during the conference I’ll let them speak for themselves.

Contact info is on the poster.

US Army Begins Fielding Next Generation Squad Weapons

Thursday, September 21st, 2023

Having recently completed Production Qualification Testing of the XM7 Rifle and XM250 Automatic Rifle, the US Army has begun issuing the first of the Next Generation Weapon System to 2nd Bde, 101st Airborne Division. Of note, the famed 101st was also the first unit to receive the M17 Modular Handgun System.

The capability

Manufactured by SIG SAUER, the NGSW consists of the two weapons along with a new hybrid cartridge in 6.8x51mm. These new weapons are being referred to by the Army as the, “most lethal small arms capability in the world” and are intended to replace the M4A1 Carbine, M249 Squad Automatic Weapon, and 5.56mm family of ammunition. But not every Soldier is getting these new weapons. They are reserved for the Close Combat Force which consists of Infantry and Cavalry Scouts as well as select Combat Engineers and enablers. All told, the Army aims to field around 100,000 XM7s and 20,000 XM250s.

XM7 Rifle

XM250 Automatic Rifle

6.8mm Family of Ammunition

The Common Cartridge Family of Ammunition has similar performance to the commercially available .270 Win Short Mag cartridge and consists of the XM1186 GP ammo along with reduced range, blank, tracer, and a marking round for force-on-force training.

XM157 Fire Control

To further enhance lethality, NGSW is paired with a new Fire Control System manufactured by Vortex Optics. It integrates a number of advanced technologies including a variable magnification optic, backup etched reticle, laser rangefinder, ballistic calculator, atmospheric sensor suite, compass, Intra-Soldier Wireless, visible and infrared aiming lasers, and a digital display overlay.

The NGSW-FC is the planned replacement for the Close Combat Optic, Rifle Combat Optic, and Machine Gun Optic within the Close Combat Force.

It is important to note that the Army’s position is that Fire Control doesn’t replace training but enhances the fundamentals.

For those of you wondering, the XM157 uses two CR132 batteries and the life is 250 hours on the low setting.

Additionally, the Army has conducted integration testing between the XM157 and Integrated Visual Augmentation System in each iteration, including IVAS 1.2 which is currently in testing.

The team

To field NGSW, the Army has assembled a team of teams which include PEO Soldier, JPEO Ammunition, Close Combat Cross Functional Team and Army Test and Evaluation Command.

The road to the selection of a NGSW system was started about six years ago with a short lived quest for an Interim Combat Service Rifle in 7.62 NATO which quickly morphed into the search for 6.8mm weapons which resulted in contract award in April 2022.

SAAC Study

The Small Arms Ammunition Configuration study was published 26 June 2017 and several conclusions informed the requirement for NGSW.

They are:

-Caliber doesn’t matter

–Secondary performance driver

-Ballistic energy on target does matter

-Advanced bullet tech matters

-Fire control matters

-Aim error reduction has largest impact on performance

–Advanced fire control reduces aim error in lieu of extensive shooter experience /ability or significant training

The path ahead

On 25 Sep 2023 the A Co, 2-502nd, will go through New Equipment Training followed by a demonstration of the new capabilities of NGSW brings to the table.

Beginning 10 Oct 2023, the unit will participate in a Limited User Test which will examine Soldier mobility (timed) with both the new weapons as well as legacy systems. They will also evaluate overall system performance, how Soldiers interact with the new weapons, and how they feel about them. The NGSW team will also begin to consider how they may transform TTPs.

Additionally, a squad from the Ranger Regiment will join the members of the 101st in the LUT to gain SOF insight into the weapons.

In the coming months is environmental testing including desert, jungle and arctic and an Operational Assessment will be conducted 1st qtr 2025. This is an event designed to determine how Soldiers will fight with the new capability.

The Army plans for the 1st Bde, 101st to be the first unit equipped in 2nd Qtr, FY24, likely in March.

Turning cover into concealment

During a visit earlier today to Aberdeen Army Test Center, PM SL representatives demonstrated that the 6.8mm round will defeat cinder blocks used in the construction of buildings around the world and a barrier which the 5.56 cartridge fired by the M249 SAW will not penetrate through and through. This new capability is a huge advantage for those fighting in built up areas and against trench and bunker complexes.

As LTC Micah Rue, Product Manager Soldier Weapons, PEO Soldier put it, “NGSW turns cover into concealment.”

Ammunition production

Currently, the Army is manufacturing the 3-piece GP projectile which is based on Enhanced Performance Round technology and SIG is producing the cartridges at their factory in Arkansas.

Lake City Army Ammunition Plant will establish an interim capability in 2024 and transition to an enduring capability in 2026. All the while, SIG SAUER will continue to produce ammunition, pursuant to their contract.

The Elephant In The Room

If there’s a common criticism of the XM7 it’s the weight. Weight is certainly an issue for the Soldier and there is some good news and some not so good news when it comes to NGSW.

The raw data when comparing an M4A1 with Close Combat Optic to an XM7 fitted with the XM157 NGSW Fire Control System and suppressor sees the XM7 at three pounds heavier. However, that would be comparing apples to oranges. With the XM7 the Soldier is not only getting an Infantry Rifle capable of firing a more lethal projectile, but also a suppressor and an advanced optic which greatly increases the ability to hit targets, particularly out past 300 meters.

On the other hand, the great news with the XM250 is that it is 2.7 pounds lighter than the M249 SAW it replaces, both with 100 round belts in place. The Soldier is also getting a suppressor with the XM250 and that same 6.8mm round which will defeat cinder blocks at ranges exceeding 300 meters.

Constant improvement

As a completely new capability the program has faced some engineering challenges including toxic fumes, reliability and dispersion. However, the PM has worked with industry to quickly solve these problems and keep the program on track.

Other changes have been made to the weapons to enhance their performance. For example, SIG added an additional feed pawl to the feed tray cover which makes it easier to load a belt without lifting the cover. They also removed the forward assist from production versions of the XM7 to reduce the weight of an unneeded feature.

This is happening

NGSW is an Army modernization priority as they push forward with their fielding plan. Although there are still several events between now and First Unit Equipped, it is only six months away. This program is moving very quickly and will transform the squad in ways we are not even aware of yet.

All images and charts provided by PEO Soldier.