SureFire

The Safariland Group Launches Interactive Customer-Centric E-Commerce Website

August 4th, 2020

Dynamic design, expansive holster finder tool and first-ever online Holster Education Center adds to customized user experience 
 

ONTARIO, California – The Safariland Group (“Safariland”), a leading global provider of safety products designed for the public safety, military, professional and outdoor markets, today launched a dynamically redesigned customer-centric ecommerce website at www.safariland.com. The clean, modern and easy-to-navigate website provides a robust interactive experience that allows customers to match products with their profession and personal needs. The website features one of the most advanced holster finders available online, and an all-new Holster Education Center, equipping the viewer with all the information needed to select a holster.

“We created this new website with one goal in mind – to design a revolutionary digital experience that puts the customer first throughout the entire process,” said Shane Ruiz, director digital media for the Safariland Group.  “From our intuitive navigation to the all-new and interactive holster finder and in depth education center to so much more, this new site is truly a game changer in eCommerce.”

An exciting new resource – the Holster Education Center – is  a highly interactive series of relevant easy-to-understand educational resources where the visitor will be guided through various considerations for selecting a holster. Written in a conversational tone, topics range from information about holster retention and ride, to different ways to carry a concealed firearm, to different competition shooting disciplines and much more. Said Ruiz, “it’s like having a conversation with one of our subject matter experts rather than reading a website.”

Safariland’s Holster Finder takes the consumer through a series of visually enhanced questions to quickly get to a variety of holster options. Visitors always know where they are in the process and can easily change course in the middle of the activity.  For a more customized search, the user may select a holster one of three ways – by profession, carry method, or firearm type.

The Company’s time-honored SAVES CLUB® is presented in a “Lives Saved” section that includes incident stories of the more than 2080 individuals who have been saved by Safariland armor or other protective gear made by the Company.

Tim Drnec, vice president, marketing and eCommerce, The Safariland Group added,  “With this site we’re looking to revolutionize how the customer interacts with us as a manufacturer. This is not simply a static site; it’s a continuing conversation with our customer.  Interactive tools like our Holster Education Center is only the beginning. This website will feature an everchanging landscape as we continually update it with new customization and configuration opportunities.  We’re working on a couple of these updates even now.”

Safariland’s website provides product information on the company-wide array of leading brands and features an enhanced dealer locator to purchase products not available for sale on the site. Individuals shopping for forensic equipment will be pleased to know that in addition to locating products on Safariland.com, the Forensics Source™ distribution arm now has its own ecommerce site once again. Offering a wide selection of crime scene, identification and laboratory equipment, along with product from its four proprietary brands – EVI-PAQ®, Identicator®, Lightning Powder and NIK Public Safety – the user will be directed to a seamlessly linked website with a streamlined, simply categorized product layout that makes it easy to find, learn about, and shop forensic equipment.

Safariland’s new website is now live and can be accessed at Safariland.com. The site will be updated regularly with news of product launches and new features. Visitors are encouraged to explore the website and to stay informed by subscribing to Safariland’s e-newsletter.

Viridian Introduces World’s First Hand Stop Laser

August 3rd, 2020

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – August 1, 2020 – After six decades, the AR-15 is still America’s rifle. The platform’s popularity stems from its speed and ergonomics. Now the venerable rifle design is poised to be even faster and easier to control thanks to Viridian Weapon Technologies’ HS1™, the first and only hand stop with an integrated laser sighting device.

“The HS1 combines the functionality of an AR hand stop with the rapid target acquisition provided by a Viridian green laser,” said Brian Hedeen, President and CEO at Viridian. “The combination makes for a much more ergonomic rifle and cuts down on the attachments that add bulk to a gun’s foregrip.”

Viridian’s new hand stop offers increased control and faster target acquisition with a highly visible green laser that’s intuitively activated by the grip of the shooter’s support hand.

The HS1 uses M-Lok mounts to make installation easy. The laser is adjustable for windage and elevation. The HS1’s pressure pad activates the laser with a variety of support-hand grips, adding an added element of control and speeding up time to target. 

This combination of speed and control makes the HS1 an ideal addition to any AR. MSRP for the Viridian HS1 is $179.

Features:
• M-Lok Mounts
• Pressure Pad Activation
• Daytime-visible Green Laser
• Ergonomic Design for Pistols and Rifles
• Single 1/3n battery
• Adjustable for Windage and Elevation

More information about the Viridian HS1 can be found at viridianweapontech.com/hs1.

Introducing the Terrain 365 STS-AT Framelock Folder

August 3rd, 2020

Rustproof, Versatile, Backcountry-Utility, Framelock Folder

 

On Tuesday, August 4th, 2020 Terrain 365™ launches their STS-AT framelock folder. A modern, technical, framelock folder featuring a distinct clip point blade inspired by the classic Loveless chute knife. Featuring their rustproof and edge-holding Terravantium™ blade, this folder is a cutting tool capable from S.ea T.o S.ummit and anything in between. The “AT” designation for Terrain 365’s folders indicates a build that uses 100% non-ferrous alloys, are non-magnetic and rustproof. Like the core philosophy behind the classic chute knife, the STS-AT is designed to be a highly capable and versatile folder for use in the wilderness, and for EDC.

The rustproof STS-AT will be available in several handle material variants from Terrain 365.

The team at Terrain 365 states,

“The STS-AT not only draws its blade shape inspiration from the Loveless chute, but also its intent. An edged tool that is highly versatile and capable in a wide range of environments and conditions as required by Harry Archer, another legendary figure and the man who initially commissioned the chute knife idea to Loveless. Archer required a knife that could be used for cutting parachute lines, wilderness survival, personal safety, and more; and also do so in demanding, rough environments. With a rustproof Terravantium™ blade, all non-ferrous and non-magnetic components down to the custom turned titanium machined screws and ceramic bearings, the STS-AT is a folding knife that is impervious to rust in any wilderness conditions on land or in water. A highly reliable and capable tool for your next adventure be it at the top of your favorite local peak, fishing spot or even remote, unknown, far away and dangerous places.”

The Terrain 365™ STS-AT will be available for $395.00 for the all titanium handle, $379.00 for the Black G10 variant and an OD Green G10 variant (an exclsuive edition for Prometheus Design Werx), at noon Pacific on their website Tuesday, August 4th, 2020.

SOLGW – Sage Dynamics 12.5 Workhorse

August 3rd, 2020

The Sage Dynamics 12.5 Workhorse. A properly tuned, over built, beautiful blaster…built by Sons of Liberty Gun Works.

The United States Air Force Awards Gentex Corporation Aircrew Laser Eye Protection (ALEP) Daytime Spectacle Contract

August 3rd, 2020

CARBONDALE, PA July 16, 2020 – Gentex Corporation, a global leader in personal protection and situational awareness solutions for defense forces, aircrew, emergency responders, and industrial personnel, announced today that it was awarded the United States Air Force Aircrew Laser Eye Protection (ALEP) Daytime Spectacle contract to develop and produce its laser protective eyewear for aircrew, the Block III Day Spectacle.

This order includes 10,000 Block III Day Spectacles over the next 18 months including development and full rate production. The Gentex lenses integrate the latest laser protective filter technology developed by the Air Force Research Laboratories (AFRL) for daytime applications. The lightweight, aviator-style frames fit comfortably on the face and feature contoured temple arms that integrate well with helmets and helmet components. The Gentex Block III Day spectacles joins our unique product line of other LEP spectacles developed for F-35, U.S. Navy EDU series and laser dazzle spectacles.

“With over 40 years of experience creating the highest quality vision protection for aircrew, this contract recognizes our continued innovation and evolution in the eyewear and visor market,” said Robert McCay, vice president at Gentex Corporation, “We’re proud to have won our second consecutive Delivery Order under Block III to develop products and technology that meet the challenges of ever-advancing technologies.”

Gentex’s portfolio of air products includes helmets, optical protection, respiratory, and situational awareness solutions. For more information visit, www.gentexcorp.com/industry-solutions/defense/air.  

The “A-Team” Is Back

August 3rd, 2020

Ann Arbor, Michigan – August 3, 2020 Effective today, EOTECH, manufacturer of the original Holographic Weapon Sight, officially separated from L3Harris, and will once again be an agile, independent business that is focused on high tech products and superior service. As part of this strategic new business model Elite Defense®, the powerhouse international distribution company, and HEL TechnologiesTM, developer of cutting-edge optical science, will also fall under the EOTECH umbrella.

To deliver on the promise of this new beginning, EOTECH has reassembled the critical team members that initially built the brand and were critical to EOTECH’s remarkable growth and success. “It was imperative to establish an “A-Team” to grow and restore the EOTECH brand and we were able to fill this team with highly successful industry veterans whose track records speak for themselves”. Said Matt Van Haaren, Chief Executive Officer. “I love it when a plan comes together.”

Some of the new A-Team members include:

Matt “Hannibal” Van Haaren – Chief Executive Officer

Currently Matt is responsible for executive management of Elite Defense, HEL Technologies and I2G Systems and has spent over 20 years in the national security sector. Those black leather gloves get in the way when he’s lighting his cigar, but Matt leaves them on to keep up appearances.

Dean “BA Baracus” Loebig – Chief Technical Officer

Dean joins the team with more than 20 years of experience developing and managing technology, project execution, marketing and product distribution for various cutting-edge brands including L-3 EOTECH and most recently Elite Defense and HEL Technologies. Dean pities the fool who tries to out-tech him.

Dennis “Howling Mad Murdock” Finnegan – President, International Business

Dennis is a US Army veteran and is a founding member of HEL Technologies and President of Elite Defense. Previously, Dennis managed international sales for L-3 EOTECH and brings 15 years experience in holographic technology markets. Dennis is “on permanent vacation” from the veterans hospital so that he can bring EOTech back to the international market.

Ed “Face” Schoppman – President, North American Business

Ed is a US Army veteran and has 20 years in the outdoor industry. Ed’s previous background as VP of Marketing, Sales, and Customer Service at L-3 EOTECH will prove invaluable in taking EOTECH to the next level. Mirrors have been installed throughout the facility so that Ed can check his hair on an ongoing basis.

John “General” Bailey – VP of Marketing

With over 15 of John’s 17 years in the outdoor industry spent at L-3 EOTECH with roles in sales, marketing and product development, John’s background and experience will be a major asset as he leads the marketing and product teams. John loves the smell of holography in the morning.

Lisa “Triple A” Kemp – Director of Branding and Marketing

Lisa brings 20 years of outdoor industry experience working at Freedom Group managing brands such as Remington, Marlin, Bushmaster and DPMS and more recently L-3 EOTECH as Marketing Communication- Brand Manager. Lisa denies that she blackmailed the team into letting her tag along, emphasizing that she’s forgotten more about marketing then the rest of the team knows put together.

Frank “Ashley” Moss – Business Development Manager – Asia and Americas

Frank is a Marine Corps Veteran, and has over 20 years of industry experience, including a highly successful track record in Government, Law Enforcement and Commercial sales within the US and overseas. He demonstrates an extensive knowledge in weapons systems and associated weapon accessories, when he is not narrating old, over-the- top TV shows.

Andy “Dishpan” Gann – Business Development Manager – Europe, Middle East, Africa

Andy has over 20 years of very successful industry experience, including executing sales growth plans through one of EOTECH’s largest European dealers. He has been with Elite Defense since 2016 and brings significant product and market expertise. Andy has a “side hustle” as a special effects expert, which is handy in getting the team out of trouble when they travel together.

Jon “Decker” Meyer – Business Development Manager – Government

Jon is a Marine Corps veteran, and has over 11 years working in the industry, with extensive experience developing products for US & Allied Governments. He has delivered numerous products currently in service with US Special Operations Forces. He refuses to update his uniform to something from this century.

Stay tuned as the new EOTECH disrupts the optics industry! We have big plans and will be delivering cool new products and great customer solutions in the near future.

www.EOTECHinc.com

Outdoor Research Achieves NIOSH Approval for US-Made N95 Flat Fold Respirator Mask

August 3rd, 2020

SEATTLE, WASH

Outdoor Research, LLC. (OR), a leading brand in the tactical and outdoor apparel industries, and the National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH) announced this week that the U.S.-made N95 Flat Fold Respirator Mask from Outdoor Research has achieved NIOSH approval. 

Early on in the pandemic, Outdoor Research recognized the need for U.S. manufacturing to help address the national shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the medical and defense communities. Because it already had significant onshore manufacturing operations in Seattle and Los Angeles, it was able to quickly adapt to address this shortage. 

Following conversions at its manufacturing facilities, Outdoor Research began producing the 100% American-made, Berry Amendment-compliant Resolute Face Mask and regulated Surgical and N95 respirator masks. It is also producing reusable, technical and functional face masks for the general public featuring integrated filters. All told, Outdoor Research has produced over 2.5 million masks to date.

Approval from NIOSH for the N95 respirator mask is a significant accomplishment. Outdoor Research is one of only 9 organizations to achieve expedited certification. While many companies have entered the mask market temporarily by creating “face coverings” for general public use, Outdoor Research has made a strategic commitment to expanding the company’s manufacturing capabilities to build advanced medical-devices, providing PPE to frontline healthcare workers during and after this current crisis. 

 “This pivot to medical PPE has required extreme dedication by an innovation team that was truly ‘purpose driven’ to help the end user,” said Jason Duncan, Head of Tactical, Innovation and CSR at Outdoor Research. “There was not a deep analysis of the business case but rather an answer to the question: what can our team do RIGHT NOW to help? You can’t motivate people to work this hard for this long without a purpose-driven goal. The NIOSH regulatory approval represents a success for a weary team that has been as obsessed with employee safety as they have with creating medical PPE. “ 

Highly respected in the outdoor industry for developing functional solutions for extreme environments, Outdoor Research has a history of successfully leveraging the best commercial market technologies to serve the needs of the armed services and first responders. Over the past two years the company has conducted a comprehensive review of the U.S. supply chain and is in active development with textile mills and materials providers to expand and elevate the capabilities of products that are 100-percent American-made.

Outdoor Research has made significant capital investments designed to improve and modernize its Seattle factory. These investments allow Outdoor Research to take advantage of the company’s global knowledge of design, materials, and innovative manufacturing techniques while producing the next generation of outdoor and tactical products at its facilities. OR has continued to accelerate its product-development cycle, allowing the latest innovations to be rapidly fielded to the end user, helping increase the mobility and protection of soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, first responders, outdoor enthusiasts, and now the medical community.  

For more about Outdoor Research, visit www.outdoorresearch.com

MATBOCK Monday – BLS

August 3rd, 2020

Good Morning and Happy MATBOCK Monday!

The BLS is a joint project between MATBOCK and MAS Special Ops Training. It’s a patent pending Bench, Ladder, Stretcher designed for Wing and Zodiac inflatable boats. The BLS is sold as a pair (bottom and upper sections) and designed to deploy as a unit. For the inflatables, it sits across the side tubes and can be secured to the floor with either ratchet straps or line (not included in the kit), giving space for 4 operators to sit forward facing during transit. When reaching the landing site or ship to be boarded, the sections can be attached together to create a 12 foot ladder with integrated shepherds hooks and offset ladder rungs. Additionally, the ladder rungs are coated on the top surface with nonslip to help prevent falls due to wet surfaces. If there is a casualty, a single section can be used as a stretcher to evacuate the individual as well. Four handles protrude from the sides to aid in transport as well as for positioning the ladder.

Each section is 69” tall, 17.5” wide, weighs 20.5 lbs and is made of aluminum with welded connections throughout the system. Additionally, the BLS comes with grip feet on the lower section to help prevent the bottom from kicking out while being used as a ladder.

www.matbock.com/products/bls

Don’t forget to tune in on Monday at 4:30 PM EST as we go live to demo our BLS system!