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Archive for the ‘weapons’ Category

Plumb Precision Products Reveals the P3 M110 and M110A1 C-UAS Weapon System

Thursday, June 5th, 2025

Issaquah, Washington, June 4th 2025

Plumb Precision Products is excited to reveal the P3 M110A1 C-UAS weapon system technology demonstrator. This is a light weight anti-drone platform focused on type 2 and 3 UAS. The weapon system is intended as an Engineering Change Proposal (ECP) to the M110 and M110A1 series of rifles. For the M110A1 It utilizes the P3 HK 417 magazine adaptor in order to utilize the Genesis Arms 12-gauge magazines. The use of 12-gauge ammunition provides the end user unprecedented flexibly for non-lethal, lethal, and counter UAS options.

This and other P3 C-UAS 12-gauge based concepts feature the expertise of Genesis Arms. Genesis Arms and Plumb Precision have had working relationship for over 5 years. This is reflected in the P3 M110A1 H&K and the M110 Knights Armament pattern 12-gauge upper receiver C-UAS concepts.

This particular variant uses a HUXWRX 12-gauge Ventumsuppressor. This compact and lightweight suppressor prioritizes maneuverability without sacrificing functionality and is full auto-rated.

It also features a Heckler and Koch M320 40mm grenade launcher. This enables the system to utilize low pressure 40mm counter UAS ammunition under development and legacy 40mm ammunition. The P3 M110A1 C-UAS uses precision 40mm ammunition such as the Raytheon Pike and its C-UAS variant. This extends the maximum effect range to almost 2000 meters.

Not shown is the patent pending P3 C-UAS detection system. Recently submitted to SF Command’s X-tech program, itutilizes acoustic detection, laser tracking, and AI enabled targeting to engage UAS. The P3 M110A1 and M110 C-UAS systems were specifically created for submission into AEWE and C-UAS programs.

Plumb Precision Products expects to conduct basic conversions to the existing M110/M110A1 for as little as $2500 per unit. This would allow the Department of Defense to convert and field preexisting systems immediately, for less money than any other option.

Look for more information from www.plumbprecision.com  

USMC Affirms Confidence in Modular Handgun System

Monday, June 2nd, 2025

Back in April a reader posted a link to this 2023 USMC incident report regarding a negligent discharge of an M18 Modular Handgun System pistol by a foreign national gate guard on Okinawa, to the comments section of SSD. I read it and wondered why I hadn’t heard about it. Current hysteria over the P320 aside, Modular Handgun System pistols are equipped with a manual safety. If one did indeed discharge all by itself while “safe and secure in the holster”, as alleged in this indecent report, there are significant concerns over the safety of our service members regarding the over 400,000 pistols in service.

You can download the report here.

As you can imagine, the report began to circulate as confirmation bias that the M18 pistol which is based on SIG SAUER’s popular P320, is doing this or that. Unfortunately, getting to the bottom of the issue takes awhile, particularly with a vigorous travel schedule and when going back and forth with the government. Despite this, I dug in.

Considering the pistol has a manual safety and was in a holster and claims that nothing impacting the trigger, something seemed off. I asked around about the report and heard that there was more to the story and it would be best if I made a formal inquiry. Consequently, I approached the DoD Program office for MHS, Product Manager Soldier Weapons (PdM SW), which is subordinate to Project Manager Soldier Lethality at Picatinny Arsenal. They stepped right up and looked into the issue as they weren’t familiar with the mishap despite the conclusion of the incident report which was to “recommend that an engineering review of the M18 be conducted.”

I asked for a statement from PdM SW but they informed me that, as the incident had occurred in the Marine Corps, I should pursue further inquiries with Marine Corps Installation Command Pacific. I sent them an email inquiry and finally heard back after this story was published. They offered a simple statement, standing by the report.

Next, I went to Marine Corps Systems Command. Their PAO interfaced with the command and offered this statement based on my initial inquiry regarding the incident report.

The incident was appropriately reported to the Naval Safety Command, which is where the provided pdf of the incident report was sourced from in response to a FOIA request. All factual information was released in accordance with FOIA. Deliberative portions of the safety investigations are subject to executive privilege, and they will not be released to any person or entity, except within the Department of Defense, for mishap and loss prevention purposes.

I had obviously asked the wrong command, the wrong question. They didn’t investigate it. Since my main concern was whether the weapon was safe for use, that’s what I ended up asking.

Late last week, the Marine Corps Systems Command Public Affairs Office provided this statement on behalf of the command:

The M18 was rigorously tested to DoD standards before being selected for use by our Marines, and we have not seen any evidence that indicates design or manufacturing issues are present. In addition to the initial testing, each lot of weapons produced for the U.S. Government is subject to extensive lot acceptance testing with oversight by the Defense Contract Management Agency and the Service from which the order was placed (Army/Marine Corps).

The Marine Corps has full confidence in the quality, performance, and safety of the M18 handgun. The MHS is designed, built, and tested to military standards to ensure safe and effective employment during training and combat.

At least one other website reported this incident and only used the incident report as the basis of their post. They never bothered to contact the military. While we may never know what actually happened in this instance, the reality is that the Marine Corps (and Army) stand behind the safety of the MHS program. Here we are, over two years later and the pistols remain in service.

That is the ultimate concern, that service members can maintain faith and confidence in their equipment, particularly those items that they must depend their lives on, such as PPE and weapons. It was my goal to determine whether or not this was the case and the Army and Marine Corps have asserted their position that MHS is safe.

By Eric Graves

Rampart Range Day 25 – Colt Canada

Wednesday, May 28th, 2025

Due to Canadian content laws, Colt Canada provides small arms to the Department of National Defence.

The Canadian military is currently working on an upgrade to their C8 carbines. Colt Canada showed off the latest version of their line of rifles, the C8 Modular Rail Ambidextrous Rifle in 5.56 NATO (Colt Canada also makes the MRR in 300 BLK).

It features a fully ambidextrous lower receiver with ambi bolt catch and release and well as fire selector switch.

This version with the 14.5” barrel is considered the general service variant and is intended for Combat Support and Combat Service Support personnel while close combatants will wield a carbine with an 11.6” barrel. As you can see, it is fitted with the Millbrook Strategic Sciences Multi Function Muzzle Device. The MFMD is timed and permanently affixed to the barrel and is currently already adopted by CANSOFCOM.

I had an opportunity to fire the 11.6 barrel version as well as a C20 sniper rifle in 7.62 NATO. Both were fitted with the MFMD. Although the MFMD is technically a two component system with a clip-on module which offers an additional 3db of attenuation, most don’t bother with the added weight. I was concerned that the carbine would feel unbalanced toward the muzzle but I didn’t notice it at all during firing. This is because most of the MFMD is mounted over the barrel and behind the muzzle. Additionally, although the device looks like a large block, most of it is hollow, filled with chases for the gas to run and escape.

This is a conceptual prototype of what a C8A4 might well look like. However, don’t surprised if the enabled change. For instance, DND still hasn’t decided on which suppressor and variable power optic they are going to field.

Departments, agencies, and military organizations in Canada can access Colt Canada and CZ Group products via Rampart.

Saab Receives Order from Canada for the Carl-Gustaf M4 Weapon

Wednesday, May 28th, 2025

Saab has signed a contract with the Government of Canada for the supply of the Carl-Gustaf M4 man-portable, multi-role weapon system.

This announcement coincides with Saab’s participation at CANSEC 2025, Canada’s largest defence and security trade show, taking place in Ottawa on May 28th and 29th.

The order, which includes the Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon and Fire Control Device (FCD) 558, further strengthens the long-standing relationship between Saab and Canada. With this acquisition, Canada joins a growing number of nations equipping their forces with the latest generation of the Carl-Gustaf system.

“This order is a clear example of Saab’s modern, combat-proven capability being in demand by our customers around the world. Canada is an important customer for Saab, and we are proud to continue supporting the Canadian Armed Forces with systems that enhance their operational effectiveness,” says Simon Carroll, President of Saab Canada.  

The Carl-Gustaf system is a globally trusted solution, used by more than 40 countries. Carl-Gustaf M4, the latest version of the system, features a lightweight design, integrated electronics, and compatibility with future intelligent sighting systems and programmable ammunition. It enables soldiers to respond quickly to a wide range of battlefield challenges including armour, structures, and personnel.

Project Manager Soldier Lethality Announces Type Classification Approval for Next Generation Squad Weapons (NGSW)

Wednesday, May 21st, 2025

PICATINNY ARSENAL, NJ – Project Manager Soldier Lethality (PM SL) announced today the official Type Classification – Standard (TC-STD) of the U.S. Army’s M7 Rifle and M250 Automatic Rifle, signifying a major program milestone.

Following a full and open competition, including technical testing and Soldier touch points, a 10-year production contract was awarded to SIG SAUER in April 2022 to produce the M7 Rifle and M250 Automatic Rifle.

The M7 Rifle and M250 Automatic Rifle are currently being fielded across the Close Combat Force (CCB) to replace the M4A1 Carbine and M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) respectively. The Type Classification confirms the system meets the Army’s stringent standards for operational performance, safety, and sustainment.

“This milestone reflects our commitment to delivering cutting-edge capabilities that give our Soldiers the tactical advantage and lethality required on the battlefield,” said Col. Jason Bohannon, Project Manager Soldier Lethality. “We remain focused on equipping our force with the most reliable and effective tools to ensure mission success.”

PM SL continues to lead the way in modernizing the Army’s combat effectiveness and lethality through innovative, Soldier-focused solutions.

– PEO Soldier

U.S. Army Designates Type Classification Milestone for the NGSW Lethality Program

Tuesday, May 20th, 2025

NGSW Type Classified

NEWINGTON, N.H., (May 20, 2025) – SIG SAUER, industry leading manufacturer of elite military weapon systems, is proud to congratulate the U.S. Army on the milestone of officially designating Type Classification – Standard (TC-STD) to the SIG SAUER Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW) M7 rifle and M250 (belt fed) automatic rifle — cornerstone systems of the U.S. Army’s modernization program and overmatch efforts. The M7 is the M4 carbine replacement, and the M250 replaces the M249 Squad Automatic Weapon; the systems bring superior range and lethality over legacy systems, providing a greater threat to enemy forces through superior overmatch.

The Type Classification affirms the M7 and M250 meet stringent performance, safety, and reliability standards for widespread military use. This designation ensures seamless integration into the U.S. Army’s inventory, streamlining procurement, training, and maintenance across units and asserting the materiel fully satisfies U.S. Army operational needs.  This milestone marks the transition of these advanced firearms from developmental to standardized status, signifying readiness for widespread fielding. 

“This approval underscores the U.S. Army’s commitment to equipping our soldiers with next generation lethality to maintain tactical superiority and enhance mission success” states Steve Rose, Executive Vice President, Defense Strategies Group.  “The M7 and M250 represent a transformative leap in combat capability.”

The NGSW Program, initiated in 2017, aims to revolutionize small arms capabilities for the U.S. Army. Following a 27-month prototype phase, extensive testing culminated in the selection of SIG SAUER’s XM7 and XM250 in April 2022.

Texas A&M Cadets Win SIG Championship With FoldAR Concealed Carry Rifle

Sunday, May 11th, 2025

The Texas A&M Corps of Cadets Marksmanship Unit (CCMU) walked away from the 2025 SIG SAUER Relentless Warrior Championship with another major win under their belt.

Competing against 126 shooters from the U.S. service academies and international military colleges, the CCMU claimed its fifth championship title in just nine years.

At the center of their success? Discipline, preparation, and in the hands of their top shooter, a 16” FoldAR Concealed Carry Rifle that proved itself on one of the most demanding stages in collegiate tactical shooting.

A Championship That Demands More Than Marksmanship

This wasn’t a casual weekend match. The Relentless Warrior Championship, hosted by SIG SAUER at their Academy in New Hampshire, is one of the most demanding collegiate-level tactical shooting events. Six mission-focused stages. Multigun challenges. Freezing wind, rain, and snow.

The Texas A&M CCMU rose above the rest, winning four of six stages, including every field course and the long-range rifle stage. They placed six shooters in the Top 12, with senior cadet Shiloh Lewis ’25 taking first overall—using a FoldAR CCR built to perform.

Why FoldAR Was the Rifle of Choice

When it came time to pick a rifle for the Relentless Warrior Championship, Shiloh Lewis had plenty of options. He chose a FoldAR—and the results speak for themselves.

FoldAR’s platform is purpose-built for reliability and precision:

  • Patented folding barrel system at the barrel-breach interface for unmatched compactness, durability, and repeatability.
  • Match-grade CHF 4150 barrels with QPQ Melonite coating for long-term performance.
  • Mid-length gas system and adjustable gas block for smooth, consistent cycling.
  • Guaranteed sub-MOA accuracy and return-to-zero after folding and deploying.
  • Chambered in .223 Wylde to maximize versatility and accuracy

This isn’t a novelty design. It’s a serious rifle built for serious work.

The Coach’s Perspective on FoldAR: Reliability First

Coach Kevin Jimmerson, who has spent over 40 years working with the M16/M4/AR platform as both a shooter and instructor, offered a powerful endorsement of the FoldAR system after two years of hard testing:

“There are only two things that ultimately matter…accuracy and reliability.

Of those two, reliability is the most important. Accuracy is of little use if the system isn’t working.”

He continued:

“Designing in reliability is where most systems fail. Not just for a day at the range—but after thousands of rounds, in everything from 100-degree heat to below-freezing conditions. The FoldAR system is, in my opinion, the only truly revolutionary modification of the AR platform in its history.

After two years of shooting, I can honestly say this folding system is absolutely reliable—and just as accurate as any custom rifle in our armory.”

Coach Jimmerson didn’t just trust it casually. He put the FoldAR through serious tests:

  • Mag dump stress tests followed by precision grouping
  • Heat-induced stress accuracy checks
  • Shooting groups while locking and unlocking between shots

The FoldAR passed them all—with no loss of accuracy, no reliability issues, and no functional failures.

“We train in 90-degree heat. That match was shot in freezing temps. And the FoldAR did what it always does—run like a sewing machine. And makes hits. We have the trophy to prove it. FoldAR is the rifle that did it.”

Built in Texas. Trusted Nationwide.

FoldAR rifles are manufactured in Henderson, Texas, by a veteran-owned and operated company that approaches firearms engineering with a mission-driven approach.

Often described as a skunkworks of the firearms industry, FoldAR has pioneered the first true concealed carry rifle platform, as well as the first true field-configurable weapon system (i.e. the “One Rifle”). It shows you can still get accuracy and reliability without hauling around a standard fixed-barrel AR.

More than just a compact system, the FoldAR platform is:

  • Non-NFA configurations, legal, and ready to ship.
  • Standard lower compatible.
  • Tool-less barrel swap capable, making caliber conversions fast and field-friendly.
  • Outfitted with top-tier components like the Nickel Match PTFE trigger, B5 SOPMOD stock, Lancer 20-round mags, and Magpul M-LOK rail system

Whether it’s for duty use, competition, or concealed carry in unconventional situations, the FoldAR Concealed Carry Rifle is engineered to meet the demand.

The Future of the AR Platform Is Here

Texas A&M’s win at the Relentless Warrior Championship wasn’t luck. It was the result of preparation, hard work, and choosing equipment that wouldn’t let them down when it mattered most.

FoldAR isn’t just a more compact rifle—it’s an evolution of the AR platform itself, offering capabilities that even custom builds struggle to match.

This is why School Resource Officers across the nation are choosing the FoldAR, now protecting over 700,000 students.

When you need a rifle that stows small, deploys fast, and performs like a full-sized carbine—FoldAR is the answer.

Looking towards the future, FoldAR invites all firearm manufacturers to explore options of integrating the folding barrel interface into their existing platforms.

Explore FoldAR’s full lineup of Concealed Carry Rifles™ at FoldAR.com.

OKSI Intelligent Seeker: 81mm Precision Guidance Kit

Friday, May 2nd, 2025

OKSI’s Precision Guidance Seekers Systems delivery high-confidence acquisition, tracking and terminal guidance – no GPS or laser required. The 81mm Precision Guidance Kit provides first round effects for mortars, providing unmatched effectiveness on today’s battlefield.

OKSI will be at SOF Week hosting customers and business partners on their yacht, showcasing their latest technologies. Get on their meeting schedule to talk low-cost solutions and integration to bring your system Intelligence By OKSI. Contact: solutions@oksi.ai