Pirata Series from OTB Boots - Coming March 2026!

Archive for the ‘Press Release’ Category

DroneShield Renews Support for ADF Drone Racing Team for 2026

Saturday, January 10th, 2026

7 January 2026 – DroneShield (ASX:DRO), a global leader in counter-drone technology, today announced its continued support of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) Drone Racing Team for 2026.

Building on a strong partnership showcased at Avalon 2025 and in previous years, DroneShield’s involvement with the ADF Drone Racing Team extends beyond traditional sponsorship. The?collaboration has focused on sharing expertise and fostering innovation in drone operations, including initiatives such as DroneShield pilots engaging with ADF Drone Racing activities to promote skills development and knowledge exchange.

Oleg Vornik, Chief Executive of DroneShield said, “The ADF Drone Racing Team continues to set the benchmark for advanced drone operations, and we’re proud to support their journey in?2026. This collaboration is about more than racing. It’s about building the skills and technologies that will define the next generation of Defence capability.”

Wing Commander Keirin Joyce, President of the ADF Drone Racing Team said, “Our partnership with DroneShield helps drive innovation across Defence. By combining the expertise of pilots from the ADF drone racing team with cutting-edge counter-drone technology, we create a unique environment for testing, learning, and advancing Australia’s operational edge.”

Image: ADF Drone Racing Team with DroneShield team

DroneShield’s continued support underscores its commitment to advancing Australian Defence initiatives that drive innovation and technical excellence. In March 2026, the ADF Drone Racing Team will defend its world title for a sixth time at the Military International Drone Racing Tournament in Sydney, further highlighting Australia’s leadership in drone technology and operational capability.

Pylon Syndicate MX

Saturday, January 10th, 2026

The Pylon Syndicate MXP is a next-generation +5 base pad extension for Gen3 PMAG magazines — The unit installs without tools and features a patent-pending spring-locked detent push-pin system, making it one of the most user-friendly magazine extensions on the market. Designed, engineered, and manufactured in the United States, it adds capacity (5 rounds on PMAG 10/20/30; 6 rounds on PMAG 40) while maintaining lightweight, rugged performance. The MXP has a CNC aluminum housing and QP nitride 4140 PH steel pin held in place with existing AR-15lower kit parts. 

• Made in the USA: Fully designed, engineered, and manufactured in the United States (even our card stock and clam packs are made in USA).   

• Scalable product line: With further Pylon-tech offerings (including 7.62 PMAG and Glock versions just around the bend), this product line is positioned to change the magazine extension standard industry-wide.

Our Manufacturing Advantage

We offer a vertically integrated suite of manufacturing capabilities that can take on any level of domestic production in the small arms space. FFL/SOT, ISO, AS9100:D | ISO9001:2015. If you make things that like to fly or go to space we can do that too.  

• Full Design & Drafting Services: Our engineering team stands ready to support custom design, prototyping, and iterative development — from concept to first articles. 

• Robust OEM Network: We maintain a domestic OEM ecosystem with access to multi-axis CNC machining resources, including 3-, 4-, and 5-axis CNC stations, precision fabrication partners, and finishing houses (DLC, Ano, Cerakote).

• Rapid Turnaround + Scalability: Leveraging vertical integration and premier partner capabilities, we can support accelerated delivery schedules without compromising quality or compliance. If you’ve got prints, we can move fast. 

pylonsyndicate.com

Ocufii Official Safety Technology Sponsor at Industry Day at the Range 2026

Saturday, January 10th, 2026

BOULDER CITY, Nev. – January 7, 2026 – SHOT Show® Industry Day at the Range, the highly anticipated hands-on event held annually the day before SHOT Show, is excited to announce Ocufii as the official Safety Technology Sponsor of the 2026 event, taking place January 19, 2026, at the Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club in Boulder City, Nevada.

Ocufii recently launched its powerful set of free personal safety features inside its mobile app. TagMe™ Assist is a dedicated safety module designed to turn smartphones into essential protection and safety tools for everyday life, unexpected situations, and emergencies. These one-tap alerts include automatic 911 and 988 dialers, among others. The full app and TagMe Assist features are available for free on the App Store and Google Play. More information is available now at ocufii.com.

Ocufii also debuted Ocufii Core for organizations at a launch event in December 2025 and will showcase it at Industry Day at the Range by way of actual use. Ocufii core allows administrators to seamlessly manage TagMe Assist, TagMe Alert and TagMe Secure devices on one platform. The Industry Day at the Range staff will implement this as part of the pre-event, at-event and post-event process. And select exhibitors will also be using TagMe Alert FlexiTag Beacons and TagMe Secure connected locks.

This will entail more than 20 individuals using the Ocufii App and/or TapAssist Mobile Wearable Card to allow show management a comprehensive, real-time view of their entire staff and support team. TagMe Alert and TagMe Secure products will paint the picture of the safety ecosystem. Features will include an alert console, location sharing and mapping for situation awareness and tools that empower the organization to protect their people, attendees and assets efficiently.

“We’re thrilled to have Ocufii on board as the Safety Technology Sponsor,” said Kelsey Puryear, Industry Day at the Range co-owner. “Its cutting-edge solutions bring an added layer of safety and efficiency to our operations, allowing our staff to focus on delivering an exceptional experience for our exhibitors and attendees. We also see fantastic benefits in our daily lives as parents, spouses, fellow industry organizations and colleagues can use Ocufii technology and products in a variety of ways centered around safety and security.”

Each Industry Day at the Range attendee will also be able to download the Ocufii App and use TagMe Assist right away. With a streamlined setup, users can activate TagMe™ Assist and start protecting themselves right away. Optional upgrades unlock advanced features, including multiple recipients, enhanced alert types and expanded monitoring capabilities—making Ocufii a flexible safety solution for every lifestyle.

Firearm owners will be especially interested in its TagMe Secure line which provides security and prevents unauthorized access to firearms. Connected trigger, cable and slide locks offer secure, non-location-based movement notifications. This means firearm owners can add a layer of technology to industry-standard equipment such as on-firearm locks, as well as safes, drawers, cases and more.

“We built TagMe Assist to be simple, powerful and accessible,” said William Sandoval, CEO and Founder of Ocufii. “Safety should never be a luxury. Whether you’re a parent, a traveler, a lone worker or a first responder—this app is for you. For firearm owners, TagMe Secure integrates seamlessly into our Ocufii App for a comprehensive platform they can trust. We can’t wait to attend Industry Day at the Range and are ecstatic that Kelsey and the ownership group will use our platform and devices to enhance their long-standing and prestigious event.”

How the TagMe Assist App Works

One-Tap Alerts: Send safety alerts and share locations with a trusted contact—instantly, with a single tap

Real-Time Location Sharing: Location updates every 60 seconds during active alerts help recipients track user movement and respond faster

Customizable Alert Types Include:

  • Emergency
  • Feeling Unsafe
  • Active Shooter,
  • Automatic 911 dialer
  • Automatic 988 dialer

Recipient Management: Easily choose who gets notified. Upgrades let users add more contacts, assign roles, and tailor alerts to each situation

Device Integration: Works seamlessly with iOS and Android smartphones, so users can stay protected without extra hardware or setup

Industry Day at the Range offers a unique opportunity for exhibitors to showcase new products, engage with top media and influencers, and connect directly with SHOT Show attendees in a hands-on setting. By partnering with Ocufii, the event is further solidifying its reputation as a leader in innovation and safety in the shooting sports industry.

The sponsorship by Ocufii highlights a personal safety product that can also scale and provide a professional and business solution that ensures safety and operational efficiency in large-scale events. Ocufii’s TagMe™ system brings added credibility to Industry Day at the Range, reinforcing its commitment to safety and professionalism.

Supported by the National Shooting Sports Foundation as title sponsor through 2028, Industry Day at the Range remains the only official range event associated with the SHOT Show. Exhibitor space is limited, and early registration is strongly encouraged.

For more information about the 2026 SHOT Show Industry Day at the Range visit ShotShowRangeDay.com

Dark Storm Industries Introduces the DS-25 Modern Fighting Rifle

Friday, January 9th, 2026

The AR-15 sized, 6.5 Creedmoor rifle that is built to out reach, out last and out perform

ROCKLEDGE, FLORIDA — [January 9, 2026] — Dark Storm Industries (DSI) today announced the new DS-25 Modern Fighting Rifle (MFR).  Initially available in a 14.5” 6.5 Creedmoor, this small-frame, AR-15-size, sub 7lb, semi-auto rifle has been engineered from the ground up to deliver extended reach, improved reliability and durability, as well as fast handling. Built for an intermediate cartridge (.308 Win / 6.5 Creedmoor) on a true small-frame platform, the DS-25 MFR combines a match-grade 14.5” barrel with a reduced-mass operating system, advanced thermal management, and true ambidextrous controls. Finished in Cerakote H-265 Flat Dark Earth over hard-coat anodizing it is backed by DSI’s fully transferable lifetime warranty.

“Until now, shooters have been forced to choose between a compact rifle and true mid-range performance,” said Kevin Elder, Director of Business Development at Dark Storm Industries. “The DS-25 MFR 14.5″ 6.5 Creedmoor was developed to erase that compromise — delivering fast handling with the stability, consistency, and durability serious users demand.”

Built for Reach — Designed for Durability

Starting at the muzzle, the DS-25 MFR features a 14.5″ medium taper profile, 416R stainless barrel, button-rifled and hand-lapped to achieve sub-MOA performance and an effective range of over 1000 yards. The barrel is electropolished and hard chrome lined for long-term durability and uses a mid-length gas system for a smooth, soft recoil impulse. The gas block is pinned to the barrel for rock-solid reliability.  The rifle is available with traditional 1:8 twist or a 1:7, providing improved stability when firing heavier 140–150gr 6.5 Creedmoor loads, from the short barrel. The rifle comes standard with a Huxwrx 762-QD flash hider which can be pinned and welded for users seeking a non-NFA rifle setup.  Alternate suppressor adapters and muzzle devices are available as well.

Free-Float Accuracy, Real Thermal Gains

The DS-25 MFR’s new 13″ M-Lok handguard mates to the upper receiver via DSI’s Multi-Lithic™ and Chainlink™ attachment systems, creating a true free-float system with no contact with the barrel nut, improving accuracy when shooting off bipods, barricades, or with forward grips. Like the DS-15 MFR, the handguard is indexed to the upper receiver with twin internal dowel pins for a clean, uninterrupted top rail.  This allows more flexibility for mounting optics, illuminators and other accessories. A new aerospace-alloy heat sink barrel nut provides significantly improved thermal dissipation over standard steel barrel nuts.  This helps maintain accuracy and reduces thermal-shift effects during rapid or extended firing cycles.

Ambidextrous Control, Reliable Cycling, Low-Lube Performance

The new billet receiver set is purpose-built for hard use.  It features true, full, ambidextrous controls (mag release, bolt catch/release, safety selector and charging handle) and a 3.5lb flat faced two-stage trigger with DLC coating.  The upper receiver and buffer tube feature a dry film solid lubricant for smoother cycling and reduced wear.  The DSI ATACH™ ambidextrous charging handle with Duo-Lock™ provides a secure, repeatable grip. The levers are large enough to easily grab but small enough to not catch on clothing or kit.  It latches onto serviceable steel lock pins on both sides of the upper providing redundancy against failure.  A wrap-around rear cap significantly reduces gas to the shooter’s face — a detail suppressor-minded users will appreciate.

At the heart of the DS-25 MFR is its enhanced bolt carrier group. Machined from premium aircraft-quality steels and finished in an advanced tri-layer chrome/nickel/DLC system, it is designed for an extended service life and to provide reliable functioning with little to no lubrication.  The bolt features enhanced geometry to mitigate the two most common bolt failure points and dual ejectors for consistent clearing of the larger brass.

Fighting-Rifle Ergonomics, Duty-Ready Details

The DS-25 MFR is outfitted with a Magpul DT carbine stock on a 7 position, extended buffer tube that features SOCOM style drain holes and triple rear vent holes for expelling gas and water. A matching Magpul K2+ rubber over-molded grip completes the control interface for fast, confident handling.

About Dark Storm Industries

Dark Storm Industries designs and manufactures American-made firearms and components in Rockledge, Florida, with a focus on durability, performance, and modern engineering. Each firearm is hand-assembled and individually tested then backed by a fully transferable lifetime warranty.

www.mfg.dark-storm.com

Dynamic Principles and Qore Performance Launch ICEPLATE MOLLE Back Panel: External Hydration Sleeve for ICEPLATE Gen 3

Friday, January 9th, 2026

Knoxville, TN — Dynamic Principles, in collaboration with Qore Performance, Inc., announces the launch of the ICEPLATE® MOLLE Back Panel, a rugged, low-profile external mounting solution that enables secure MOLLE attachment of ICEPLATE® Gen 3 to the rear PALS field of any plate carrier or chest rig.

Optimized for ICEPLATE® Gen 3’s enhanced geometry, dual fill ports, and 52.4 fl oz (1.55 L) capacity—while remaining fully compatible with the legacy ICEPLATE® Curve—the panel positions the hard-cell bladder externally, allowing heavy packs, mortar base plates, breaching tools, etc. to be worn directly over it without risk of rupture.

Features:

  • Laser-cut laminate construction: lightweight, hydrophobic, and extremely low profile.
  • Full external PALS field plus bottom row for unlimited pouch and accessory attachment.
  • Crye JPC 2.0 pattern-style zippers for seamless zip-on back panel integration.
  • 6″×3″ loop field for IR/identification patches.
  • Three removable One-Wrap loops for clean drink tube routing and management.
  • Fixed four-column MOLLE strap array ensures rock-solid attachment under the heaviest loads.
  • 100% Berry Compliant, NIR-compliant, and proudly made in the USA by Dynamic Principles.

With the top fill port remaining accessible while mounted, the ICEPLATE® MOLLE Back Panel enables on-body buddy refills and transforms ICEPLATE® Gen 3 into a dedicated external water source that keeps users hydrated and mission-ready without compromising armor placement or seated vehicle use.

“We retired our original ICEPLATE® MOLLE Sleeve in early 2025 to stay focused on advanced thermoregulation,” said Austin Pitsch, Marketing Manager of Qore Performance, Inc. “Partnering with Dynamic Principles changed everything. Their world-class manufacturing and attention to detail produced the ultimate external hydration sleeve—purpose-built for ICEPLATE® Gen 3 and the modern battlefield.”

ICEPLATE® MOLLE Back Panel is available now in MultiCam, Coyote, Ranger Green, and Black exclusively at QorePerformance.com and Dynamicprinciples.us.

Glock GR-115 Selected as the Weapon of Choice for UK Firearms Units

Friday, January 9th, 2026

London, UK — 9th January 2026 — Following the most extensive weapons trial conducted in UK policing in the past two decades, the GLOCK rifle GR-115 has been officially selected as the firearm of choice for specialist armed policing units across the country.

This decision marks a significant milestone in the evolution of armed policing capabilities in the UK. The GR-115 rifle outperformed a field of leading global manufacturers, achieving the highest scores for accuracy both supressed and unsuppressed.

 A Legacy of Trust and Support

Glock has been a trusted partner to UK law enforcement since the 1990s, when GLOCK pistols were first adopted by police forces nationwide. Today, Glock continues to stand firmly behind UK policing, providing not only advanced firearms and long-term service but also training and logistical support.

Engineering at Its Core

The GR-115 rifle represents the culmination of years of intensive research, development, and refinement of the AR platform. Its superior accuracy, reliability, and adaptability are the result of rigorous testing and collaboration with end-users to ensure operational effectiveness in the most demanding environments.

Availability

The GR-115 rifle is only available to selected law enforcement and military customers at this time.

Via Viking Defence

Arktis Launches Next-Gen Vulcan Jacket V2 in PenCott GreenZone — Best-in-Class Insulation Meets Elite Camouflage

Thursday, January 8th, 2026

Arktis, the legendary British tactical gear brand, today announces the release of the Vulcan Jacket V2 in PenCott® GreenZone™, now available worldwide via the Arktis online store and authorized dealers.

Building on the acclaimed Vulcan platform, the Vulcan Jacket V2 delivers enhanced performance for operators and outdoor professionals who demand exceptional warmth, comfort, and concealment in challenging environments. Designed as a lightweight, packable insulating mid-layer, the V2’s refinements are the result of extensive user feedback and field testing.

Advanced Thermal Performance — Zero Bulk
Featuring premium PrimaLoft® Gold insulation, the Vulcan Jacket V2 balances thermal efficiency with breathability even when wet. With 100 gsm of insulation in the body and 60 gsm in the arms, the jacket delivers core warmth without unnecessarybulk. Its streamlined form enables the jacket to pack down into its own pocket — ideal for mobile operations, expeditions, or everyday carry.

User-Driven Design Enhancements
The V2 features newly added mesh-gusseted pit zips for rapid ventilation during high exertion, plus optimized pocket placement for faster access to essentials. Large front pockets offer dual-zip openings and internal compartments sized for mobile devices or comms gear. Concealed adjustment points ensure secure storage without interfering with weapons handling, while an adjustable hood offers complete coverage control.

Water-Resistant and Durable
Constructed with a windproof, water-resistant Nylon MiniRipouter and finished with a DWR coating, the Vulcan Jacket V2 is built to withstand adverse conditions without restricting movement or performance.

PenCott® GreenZone™ — Elite Camouflage Technology
The new Vulcan Jacket V2 is offered in PenCott® GreenZone™, one of the most effective multi-environment camouflage designs available today. Unlike other popular prints, PenCott® patterns use a hybrid 3-in-1 geometry that blends macro, midi, and micro elements to deliver exceptional concealment across close, mid, and long distances.

The omni-directional design orientation also combines depth, natural tones, and shape-disrupting features to confuse visual detection and help the wearer blend into real-world terrains more naturally and effectively than many traditional disruptive patterns — especially in verdant mixed vegetation environments.

Availability & Pricing

The Arktis Vulcan Jacket V2 — PenCott® GreenZone™ is now available for purchase online at the official Arktis store and through authorized dealers.

 

Vortex Introduces the AMG 1-10×24 FFP Riflescope: Engineered to the Standards of Those Who Hold the Line

Thursday, January 8th, 2026

BARNEVELD, Wis. – Born from the standards of elite military units, the AMG®1-10×24 delivers high-power magnification and optical clarity to compact, short-barreled carbines — leaving rail space for thermal attachments, lasers, offset red dots, and backup irons.

British SAS, Royal Marines, and U.S. SOCOM units set the baseline for zero retention, optical performance, and extended operational durability. Over years of testing, Vortex® engineers pushed the AMG® 1-10×24 against those standards until it exceeded every requirement.

The result is the most advanced optical and mechanical system Vortex® has engineered in an LPVO.

“The project started when the UK Ministry of Defense asked for an optic that didn’t exist and nobody else would make,” says Andy Haffemann, Vortex® Advanced Design Manager. “Over years of iterations, failed prototypes — hundreds of lenses turned to dust through recoil testing — we refined every detail through connections at UK Ministry of Defense and U.S. Special Operations Command until it met their combined expectations.”

FEATURES

CLASS LEADING HD OPTICAL SYSTEM – Stunning resolution and exceptionally wide field of view.

TOOLLESS TURRETS – Fast, tool-free zero with reliable return and micro adjustment.

DUAL ZERO TURRETS – Switch zeros for suppressed, unsuppressed, super or subsonic, light or heavyweight loads.

LIGHTWEIGHT, COMPACT BUILD – Just 8.4″ and 18.8 ounces, fits short-barreled carbines and frees up the rail for attachments.

LOCKING FAST-FOCUS DIOPTER (PATENTED) – Locks tight to keep your reticle sharp.

LOCKING ILLUMINATION DIAL – Aggressively knurled for control. Lock prevents shifts from snags and transport.

INTEGRATED THROW LEVER (PATENTED) – 120° throw for faster transitions, low profile to avoid snags.

MADE IN U.S.A. WITH U.S. AND GLOBAL PARTS – Engineered, machined, and assembled in the USA. Held to micron level tolerances.

Inside, the glass-etched, Illuminated EBR-9 MRAD reticle reflects the same mindset. Designed for tactical and combat shooters, it runs fast up close and precise past 1,000 yards. The grid stays clean for quick corrections, and the ranging marks make distance calls simple: 3, 4, 5, and 6 correspond to hundreds of yards and shoulder-width targets at each range.

AMG® 1-10×24 FFP Riflescope
MAP $3,999.99 | MSRP $6,399.99

Each AMG® riflescope is hand-assembled and inspected in Barneveld, Wisconsin — one at a time — and ships with the new Defender® Flip Cap O-24L, designed specifically for 34mm LPVOs. A small detail, but that’s the point and the discipline that defines the AMG® line: mastery lives in the details. For a detailed list of technical specifications, frequently asked questions, and high-resolution images, check out the Vortex® New Product Portal.

To see more from Vortex®, visit VortexOptics.com or follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, X, and TikTok.