It was great to see Rotapoint Systems in the vendor tent at last week’s USASOC Sniper Competition. In addition to their Watch Caps which piggyback MRDS on to variable power optics, they showed me their new Griptrap which is an ergonomically enhanced MLOK hand stop.
As you can see from this composite image, the Griptrap is designed to support your natural grip rather than forcing you to contort your hand on the handguard.
Another thing I like about this simple design is that it can’t be used to either keep you from dangling your appendages too close to the barrel or, as I prefer, to allow me to pull the rifle back in to my shoulder. What’s more, it’s as effective under the barrel as at the 3 or 9 o’clock position.
Finally, there are three variants, based on user preference.
(Cincinnati, OH) Faxon Firearms, a Cincinnati, Ohio-based manufacturer of quality rifle and pistol components and complete firearms, is proud to provide its latest guide: The Ultimate Guide to Barrel Profiles.
Building or tweaking an AR-15 can involve a variety of things, some vital, some arguable or even cosmetic. It could be receiver sets, muzzle devices, anti-walk pins, or any of a dozen other things, but one of the most important considerations is that of a barrel – and when you’re choosing a barrel, you need to be thinking about barrel profiles.
Finding the right barrel profile is a Big Deal. It’s not just about looks; it shapes how your rifle handles and shoots and fits your shooting lifestyle, whether that’s defending your home, hunting in the woods, or just having fun at the range.
Why should you care? Because every profile offers something different; there relative advantages and arguable disadvantages to each one.
From the heavy hitters to the lightweight models, we’ll walk you through what each might mean for your build or intended upgrade. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or someone whose just getting started, we want to make the choice that feels – and functions – just right.
AR15 Barrel Profiles Explained
The term “barrel profile” refers to the thickness of the barrel on an AR-15-style rifle (like the Faxon Sentry). Different barrel profiles can impact the gun’s performance in various ways.
For instance, thinner barrels are lightweight and easy to handle, while thicker barrels provide more stability by adding weight to the front of the gun and can withstand more heat. The weight of your barrel is going to impact the weight of your rifle. Though those few ounces might seem insignificant, they’re not, particularly if you’re manipulating the weapon for extended periods, carrying a bunch of weight in other ways (armor, gear, etc.), or maybe just dealing with physical constraints or limitations.
It’s important to consider the trade-offs of different barrel options available (particularly vis-a-vis accuracy, heat dispersion, durability, and weight) before making your choice!
Let’s take a look at some AR15 barrel profiles and see what makes each one unique.
Faxon Gunner Profile
The Faxon Firearms Gunner profile blends two of the best-performing profiles of all time: Government (Gov’t) and Pencil.
Faxon’s Gunner profile combines the durability of the Gov’t profile with the weight savings and maneuverability of the Pencil profile.
The Gunner profile brings the balance of the rifle back towards the shooter’s body, limiting fatigue and allowing you to shoot, train, or hunt all day long.
Government/SOCOM Profile
A SOCOM barrel for an AR-15 is designed differently from the standard M4/A2 barrel.
Instead of being consistently thick throughout, it has a thinner section past the gas block and a thicker section near the chamber. SOCOM barrels often have a slot for attaching a grenade launcher and provide a balance between strength and weight.
If you’re looking for a barrel that can handle sustained shooting while still being lightweight, a SOCOM barrel may be a good option for you.
Pencil Profile
The pencil barrel is the original profile for the AR-15. It typically measures 0.625 inches in diameter.
It is known for being slim and lightweight, making it easy to carry and handle. Its thinness, however, makes it heat more quickly than its cousins, particularly during rapid fire. Overheating the barrel leads to elastic deformation or warping, which in turn affects accuracy and reliability.
Unlike run-of-the-mill pencil barrels, Faxon Firearms barrels are properly heat-treated and stress-relieved. The Faxon manufacturing process improves heat resistance and longevity.
The durability of this AR15 barrel profile is ideal for shooters with a light or medium shooting schedule.
Learn more about barrel characteristics and how they affect the performance and longevity of your weapon, particularly AR15 barrel profiles.
What is the best all-around barrel profile to use?
Of course, barrel profile doesn’t just affect AR15s and large-frame pistols. The barrel characteristics (not just the profile) of any firearm can greatly affect its overall performance and handling.
We’ve looked at the three most common barrel profiles: Gunner, Government, and Pencil.
Of those, the Government/SOCOM provides the most stability with the greatest potential for accuracy. It does so because it’s the thickest and heaviest style, which adds weight to the gun and to the shooter’s aggregate loadout.
The Pencil version is the thinnest and lightest option, making it easier to handle and carry but it does sacrifice some stability and accuracy potential.
Faxon believes the Faxon Firearms Gunner barrel is the best general barrel choice. It provides the best balance of the other two, offering a good compromise between weight, performance, and durability.
Ultimately, the choice of barrel profile will depend on the individual’s personal preferences, but should absolutely be appropriate for the intended use of the rifle.
Consider the trade-offs and choose the barrel profile that best suits your needs!
Fort Worth, Texas (March 19, 2024) – XS® Sights is pleased to now offer its popular Lever Rail and Ghost Ring sight sets for the Rossi R95 lever-action rifle and Lever Scout Mount for the Rossi R92.
Machined from aircraft-grade aluminum, XS Rails are hard coat anodized to provide a lightweight mounting system that is tough enough to withstand a lifetime of use. The ghost ring sight sets are made of precision-machined steel and fully adjustable for windage and elevation. These rugged sights deliver an enhanced field of view with a white stripe front sight that is highly visible on targets in all lighting conditions and contrasts against any color background.
“The XS Ghost Ring sight sets allow for the fastest target acquisition possible with iron sights,” said Jeff King, Marketing Manager, XS Sights. “The surge in popularity of lever action rifles has been fun to see, and we are happy to offer Rossi R95 and R92 owners upgrades to make their shooting experience better. Our Picatinny rail offers users flexibility by easily accommodating riflescopes and red dot sights.”
R95 Lever Rail and Ghost Ring Kit Retail Price: $192.99
R92 Lever Scout Mount Kit Retail Price: $76.99
All XS sights are backed by a 30-Day Satisfaction Guarantee. The company also offers a 12-year warranty on all tritium products and a limited lifetime warranty on all other products. For more information, visit www.xssights.com.
Posted in Optics, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on XS Sights Introduces Lever Rail and Ghost Ring Sight Kit for Rossi R95 and Lever Scout Mount for Rossi R92
You might already know about the “RF” series of muzzle devices that started as a collaboration between Forward Controls and Revival Defense. It was designed to be the most effective mounting solution for the ATLAS/Plan B suppressor system, which uses a short, lightweight threaded taper mount muzzle device. Revival Defense and Forward Controls Design have brought the “RF” series to completion with the 3P15 and 3P10 three-pronged flash hiders.
The RF (Revival Defense, Forward Controls) Muzzle Devices were developed to be compact yet effective muzzle devices. They also function as a durable and dependable suppressor mount without adding unnecessary weight or length to the front of your rifle. Our goal was to design a practical device for users who desire a high-performance standalone device that can securely hold their suppressor.
After extensive R&D, we’ve refined the 3P10 and 3P15 to the point where they match or exceed the flash mitigation performance of most similarly sized or larger flash hiders. A significant portion of our design process was dedicated to improving flash suppression, so releasing these devices took longer than the brake and A2-style RF muzzle devices. The 3P15 went through three revisions and the 3P10 through five before we were satisfied with their performance. Although the 3P15 is shorter and smaller in diameter than many or flash suppressors, the 3P15’s flash suppression performance competes with larger and longer flash suppressors.
Both the 3P15 and 3P10 do not produce a ‘ping’ noise when fired. The flutes on the exterior of the prongs have varying widths and depths, designed to reduce weight and give each prong a different mass to prevent them from behaving as a tuning fork. Our 3P muzzle devices are compatible with a standard armorer’s wrench and 3/4 wrench, with the wrench flats in the familiar location in the rear. This is beneficial for both installation or if a suppressor becomes seized on the rifle and additional leverage on the muzzle device is needed.
Atlas-R Hub:
The Atlas-R is a lightweight, low-profile silencer adapter that uses Revival Defense’s Patent-Pending Castle-Lock™ Design. It uses TDP Spec Castle Nut Notches, making installation and removal easy with common tools like an Armorer’s Wrench or castle-nut wrench. Once installed, the Atlas-R can accept our RF muzzle devices, Rearden, and other Plan B-compatible muzzle devices, forming a compact and lightweight suppressor mounting system. This suppressor mounting system uses a taper and threads for a reliable and repeatable seal without adding unnecessary weight or length. The taper requires about 20% more force to remove than to install.
The Castle-Lock™ system, currently patent-pending, uses a combination of TDP Spec Castle Nut Notches and four 1 5/16” wrench flats around the circumference. This gives users the ability to apply accurate torque values during installation and use common tools for installation and removal. We’ve also incorporated a flat section beneath each wrench flat, which allows for solid lockup when using a crescent or crowfoot wrench with the Atlas-R.
All Products Are Designed and Manufactured in the USA.
Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on Revival Defense Collaborates with Forward Controls and Rearden MFG on New Three-Prong Flash Hider & Suppressor Hub
LONOKE, Ark. – March 11, 2024 – Remington Ammunition has announced the release of a revamped line of gun care and cleaning supplies. This line of products will include firearm cleaning and care assistance chemicals, accessories and storage solutions, as well as a new line of range bags and cases to assist hunters and shooters at home, at the range or in the field.
“Remington is proud to offer both top-notch ammunition and the products that help gun owners maintain their firearms for longer periods, ensuring optimal performance,” said Remington’s Shooting Accessories Global Product Line Director Dan Deeb. “At Remington, we understand the importance of proper firearm maintenance, and our goal is to provide gun owners with the best tools and solutions available.”
The iconic Remington cleaning product line is getting a sleek new look, including refreshed packaging on favorites like Rem Oil and new products like Remington Lead Removing Wipes. The Remington cleaning product line offers a comprehensive range of top-notch cleaning chemicals and accessories, ensuring that every firearm is kept in pristine condition.
Remington Gun Cleaning and Care Products
SKU / Description / MSRP
18397 / 40-X Bore Cleaner / $10.99
18394 / Brite Bore Solvent / $8.79
18395 / Rem Action Cleaner / $8.99
18396 / Rem DriLube / $7.99
24027 / Rem Oil / $9.79
18471 / Rem Oil Wipes / $99.00
18501 / Rem Gun Grease / $35.94
18472 / Shotgun Cleaner / $12.49
19054 / Sportman Cleaning Kit / $29.95
Remington Gun Care Accessories
SKU / Description / MSRP
19531 / Rem Bore Light Extended Flex / $12.95
15807 / Metal Field Box / Ammo Can / $27.95
15808 / Plastic Field Box / Ammo Can / $12.95
19902 / Rem Cloth with MoistureGuard / $7.95
19950 / Model 365 Dehumidifier / $27.95
19946 / Model 500 Dehumidifier / $34.95
In addition to the gun cleaning supplies, Remington is offering gun cases, shell pouches and range bags, designed to cater to the needs of shooters and hunters at every level. With three new product lines for 2024, Premier, First In The Field and Gun Club, every firearm owner can find the perfect case, bag or pouch to suit their needs.
Remington Range Bags & Gun Cases
SKU / Description / MSRP
RPSP / Premier Shell Pouch / $54.99
RPRB / Premier Range Bag / $159.99
RPSC48 / Premier Shotgun Case 48″ / $94.99
RPSC52 / Premier Shotgun Case 52″ / $94.99
RPSRC44 / Premier Scoped Rifle Case 44″ / $99.99
RPSRC48 Premier Scoped Rifle Case 48″ / $99.99
RFFSC48 / First in the Field Shotgun Case 48″ / $54.99
RFFSC52 / First in the Field Shotgun Case 52″ / $54.99
RFFSRC44 / First in the Field Scoped Rifle Case 44″ / $59.99
RFFSRC48 / First in the Field Scoped Rifle Case 48″ / $59.99
RSRC40 / Gun Club Rifle Case 40″ / $29.99
RSRC48 / Gun Club Rifle Case 48″ / $29.99
RGCSC52 / Gun Club Shotgun Case 52″ / $29.99
RGCRB / Gun Club Range Bag / $54.99
RGCSBP / Gun Club Pouch / $11.99
RGCCSHB / Gun Club Combo Shell Hull Bag / $34.99
RTFGC52 / Tri-Fold Gun Case / $39.99
RNGS52 / Neoprene Gun Sleeve 53″ / $34.99
Find Remington ammunition at dealers nationwide and online. For more information on Remington ammunition and accessories, visit www.remington.com.
SB Tactical®, inventors and manufacturers of the Pistol Stabilizing Brace®, is proud to continue supporting the large frame pistol market with the release of the new SBA5™ Pistol Stabilizing Brace.
Designed for all platforms capable of accepting a mil-spec carbine receiver extension, the SBA5 is 5-position adjustable and greatly enhances the usability of the host firearm by adding an additional point of contact.
Featuring an integral, ambidextrous QD sling socket, the SBA5 is available in both black and FDE. With an arm cuff size based on the original SB15®, the SBA5 weighs only 9 ounces, and ships with an adjustable nylon strap for a custom fit.
Learn more about the SBA5 brace or find yours online. For further information, follow @SB Tactical on Facebook and Instagram.
Ft. Lauderdale, FL – March 13, 2024 – FALCO® Holsters, a globally recognized leader in custom leather holsters, is proud to introduce its latest luxury product line of three stunning leather bags. Each piece in this bespoke collection is meticulously handcrafted from full-grain Italian leather, ensuring unmatched durability and exquisite craftsmanship. The new collection includes the Traditional Leather Range Bag, a Premium Leather Day Bag with detachable outside pockets, and a new Premium Leather Concealed Carry Handbag.
Katarína Zacharová FALCO Holsters, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, expressed her excitement about the new collection, stating,” These are legacy items that can be passed down from generation to generation. The aesthetic boasts meticulous stitching and hand-colored edges and exudes elegance and refinement. Our full-grain leather is ready for years of use, and its patina only improves with age.”
Crafted from the finest Italian leather, the M101 Traditional Leather Range Bag combines sophistication with functionality. Its spacious main compartment features soft loop Velcro padding for added protection and customizable storage. The bag also includes adjustable separation walls and four pockets for organizing smaller items. The sturdy brass buckles on the flap ensure security, while the rigid leather handle and removable, adjustable shoulder strap offer versatile carrying options.
“The M101 was inspired by traditional European leather range bags and conveniently accommodates handguns and gear for a day at the range, a round of sporting clays, or even your camera and optics equipment,” emphasized Zacharová.
• Traditional Premium Leather Range Bag
• Handcrafted from the highest quality pre-tanned Italian cowhides
• Each bag is hand-shaped, lacquered, and finished by FALCO artisans
• Spacious main compartment features adjustable separation walls
• Interior padded with soft Velcro (loop side)
• Inside the top flap closure, elastic loops are provided for additional storage options
• Includes 4 bags for organization of smaller items
• Rigid leather top handle and adjustable padded shoulder strap for comfortable carry
• Bottom corners reinforced with an extra layer of leather for durability
• Heavy-duty brass hardware and fixtures
• Dimensions: 16.5 x 10.6 x 8.3 inches
• Lifetime Limited Warranty
• 30-Day Buyback Guarantee
• Colors: black, brown
• MSRP: $599.95
The M102 Premium Leather Day Bag represents the epitome of luxury and utility, stated Zacharová. “This bag is a must-have for discerning marksmen, travelers, and fans of superior leather goods.”
Crafted from the highest-quality Italian leather, the M102 stands out in durability and style. A stylish accessory for transporting range gear, documents, or travel accoutrements, it features a large main compartment and two side compartments with tuck locks for smaller items and convenient organization. The top flap features an attractive brass twist lock, while the adjustable/removable shoulder strap includes a wide reinforced leather pad for comfortable carrying.
“Elevate your game with this luxurious bag,” Zacharová suggests. “Consider this a foundation piece for your carry-on luggage collection. When everything else is plastic and nylon, our rich, fragrant day bag sets you apart from the crowd with a hint of sophistication.”
• Premium Leather Day Bag
• Handcrafted from the highest quality pre-tanned Italian cowhides
• Each bag is hand-shaped, lacquered, and finished by FALCO artisans
• Spacious main compartment offers large interior space and features brass twist lock closure
• Two detachable side compartments feature brass tuck lock flaps
• Two rolled leather handles offer added strength and balance
• Adjustable padded shoulder strap for comfortable, versatile carry
• Bottom corners reinforced with an extra layer of leather for durability
• Heavy-duty brass hardware and fixtures
• Main bag dimensions: 16.5 x 10.6 x 8.3 inches
• Side compartment dimensions: 6.3 x 1.57 x 7.8 inches, each
• Lifetime Limited Warranty
• 30-Day Buyback Guarantee
• Colors: black, brown
• MSRP: $449.95
The elegant leather M103 handbag is designed for style and safety-conscious gun owners. Handcrafted from pre-tanned Italian leather, the main compartment is secured with a robust brass zipper with an inner lining of soft Velcro. This unique feature accommodates the included universal gun holster or owners’ Kydex holsters with a Velcro attachment. Offering ample space for everyday essentials, the Velcro provides secure firearm retention. A separate outside compartment with a twist lock provides easy access to additional items. This purse offers flexible carrying options with its adjustable leather shoulder strap and stylish designer handle, which complement the bag’s chic aesthetic.
“Combining fashion with functionality and safety was our top priority in designing this handbag,” explained Zacharová. “The dual layer of leather adds an element of strength to this purse.
• Premium Leather Concealed Carry Handbag
• Handcrafted from the highest quality pre-tanned Italian cowhides
• Each bag is hand-shaped, lacquered, and finished by FALCO artisans
• Construction features two layers of leather for additional strength
• Main compartment secures with robust brass zipper and features inner Velcro lining
• Universal elastic handgun holster included
• Sleek outside compartment features attractive brass twist lock
• Adjustable padded shoulder strap for comfortable, versatile carry
• Stylish designer handle
• Heavy-duty brass hardware and fixtures
• Dimensions: 10.23 x 11.8 x 2.74 inches
• Lifetime Limited Warranty
• 30-Day Buyback Guarantee
• Colors: black, brown
• MSRP: $199.95
Contact FALCO Holsters Vice President of Sales and Marketing Katarína Zacharová at katarina@falcoholsters.com to learn more about becoming a trusted FALCO Holsters retailer.
