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CBP Seeks Service Handgun Electronic Aiming Device for New Glock Pistols

February 7th, 2020

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection has issued an RFI to industry for a “Service Handgun Electronic Aiming Device”, a government euphemism for a Mini Red Dot Sight for their recently fielded G47 and G19 pistols manufactured by Glock. The slides are Modular Optic System (MOS) cut.

According to the RFI, any candidate optics will be subjected to a righteous battery of testing which cannot result in a shift of more than 2 MOA. Tests include 25,000 slide cycles with 9mm +P ammunition and horizontal forward and rearward (slide cycle direction) g-forces in excess of 7000G. Yes, 7000G.

Here are the general requirements called out in the RFI:

• MOUNTING
o Shall be capable of mounting directly and securely to GLOCK model G47 and G19 MOS-configured handguns.
? Shall be designed specifically to mount to MOS profile slide, and not allow for movement when properly mounted. (semi-permanent thread-lock substances, such as Loctite, may be used)
o Shall mount to the handgun slide MOS-cut directly, without the use of adaptor plates.
? Shall not rely exclusively on screws to prevent movement. Must not allow for font/back or left/right movement once placed in MOS cut-out when held by gravity alone.
o Must allow visibility of back-up iron sights (properly installed Ameriglo Agent night sights) through the lower portion of display in case of optic failure. Shall not require the use of backup iron sights (BUIS) taller than the CBP-issued Ameriglo Agent Night Sights.

• TARGET VISIBILITY
o Aiming device shall not distort or otherwise interfere with clear view of target
o Mounted aiming device shall allow for a clear “target focus”
o Glass or transparent viewing window, if applicable, shall be resistant to fogging, water adhesion, or other environmental interference

• RETICLE
o Reticle shape shall be a dot
o Preferred color for reticle is red or green
o Reticle brightness shall be adjustable. Adjustability shall range from visible under direct sunlight to reduced illumination during nighttime operations.
o Reticle shall be designed to encourage rapid sight acquisition and alignment with target
o Reticle or aiming point shall be crisp, clear, and visible while shooter’s focus is on target (i.e. allows for target focus shooting, with minimal parallax distortion)
o Reticle size shall allow for precision aiming at various engagement distances
? A 3-7 Minute of Angle (MOA) dot is preferred
o If projected, reticle emitter must be fully enclosed or protected to prevent reticle diminishment or disappearance as a result of sand, dust, mud, water, or debris.
? Must resist reticle interference in the following orientations: downward (as holstered), horizontal (as aimed at target), and laterally (held 90 degrees left or right while aimed at target)
o Reticle shall have a hertz (Hz) frequency which appears to the human eye as a solid illumination point, even if moved rapidly from target to target
? Shall not appear to the shooter to flicker or lag when moved rapidly from one target to another
o Reticle shall be capable of being “zeroed” while mounted on a G19 and G47 handgun, and shall be adjustable for point of aim / point of impact (POA/POI)
? Adjustments to POA/POI (windage and elevation) should require the use of a tool (i.e. slot screw driver or allen/torx wrench)
? Adjustments should require deliberate action to adjust (i.e. finger pressure on adjustment screws should not be sufficient to adjust)

• POWER SUPPLY
o Shall be electronically operated by a removable and replaceable power source which is readily available on the commercial market (i.e. battery)
o Power source must be accessible for replacement without removing the aiming device from the firearm
o Device must be capable of remaining “on” for a minimum of 6 months while set to a daylight visible brightness setting without power supply replacement or recharge
? No shift in POA/POI when battery is replaced
? Daylight visible can be defined as immediately visible to the average shooter under direct sunlight
o Solar power is acceptable but not required, and shall not be the sole source of power or power replenishment (i.e. must still have replaceable power source)
o Ability to recharge the power supply without removal (i.e. charging cable) is acceptable but not required, and shall not be the sole source of power replenishment (i.e. must still have replaceable power source)

• SIZE/WEIGHT
o Shall not be larger than necessary to provide a clear aiming view
? Forward most edge of viewing window must be at least 3/8” behind top of ejection port to reduce likelihood of obscuring by hot gas or debris
? Sides must not protrude more than 1/16th” on either side of the slide when mounted
? Height must not be greater than 1 1/4th” when mounted, measured from the top most flat portion of the slide, not including sights
o Weight shall not interfere with consistent and reliable cycle of operations on the handgun
o Window(s) or viewing area of device, if applicable, shall be of sufficient size to allow clear and rapid acquisition of reticle, without impeding clear view of target

Industry responses are required by than 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 26th, 2020. See beta.sams.gov for details. SAMS is the replacement for FBO. It is a trainwreck, so if the link doesn’t work, search for ‘aiming.’

Posted in Contracts, LE, Optics, Weapon Accessories | 15 Comments »

FirstSpear Friday Focus – Final Flannel Re-Stock

February 7th, 2020

FirstSpear has announced the final re-stock in the super heavy Stratton Flannel including a throw back to a few popular colors from last season. Available in the extra thick 9oz and lightweight 4oz weight. Features two oversized chest pockets with button closure. Machine-washable and 100% made in the USA.

Don’t miss out this is the final run for these colors and won’t be restocked until next season.

www.first-spear.com/stratton-flannel-7386

Posted in Advertiser, Clothing, FS Friday Focus, Guest Post | 2 Comments »

GAOS 20 – Can-Am 6×6 All Terrain Vehicles

February 7th, 2020

The off-road section of GAOS is filled with various options. These two 6-wheeled vehicles stood out. In both cases that third axel offers increased payload and ground contact.

The Defender 6×6 DPS is a side by side machine with a traditional steering wheel.

It incorporates a Rotax 976cc V-twin producing 82 horsepower and 69 foot pounds of torque. It’s can carry up to 1,000 pounds and has a towing capacity of 3,000 pounds.

The bed can be opened up for larger sizes loads.

The Outlander Max 6×6 XT 1000 ATV features a 1000 Rotax V-Twin engine which produces 82 horsepower. It has a carrying capacity out of Additionally, there is a factory installed 3,000 pound WARN winch.

If there’s a drawback to the Outlander Max, it’s the wide turn radius due to the handlebar steering and extra axel.

The bed can be tilted to dump hauled material.

Posted in GAOS, Mobility | 5 Comments »

GAOS 20 – Freedom Frames

February 6th, 2020

Firearms owners are always looking for ways to protect their valuables, yet have ready access to their guns.

Enter Freedom Frames. Sure, it looks like a mild mannered picture frame, but the picture slides up to reveal a secret compartment.

The compartment is full length and can be configured to conceal quite a few different items.

Freedom Frames are available in different sizes and finishes.

Posted in 2A, GAOS | Comments Off on GAOS 20 – Freedom Frames

Shoot, Move, Communicate: Modular Plate Carrier and Back Panels from Grey Ghost Gear

February 6th, 2020

Kellogg, ID – Grey Ghost Gear has been working intently on a new plate carrier system for over 2 years, and after countless hours of designing, sewing, field testing, redesigning and retesting downrange by legitimate U.S. warfighters, it’s finally making its debut to the rest of the world. So, buckle up, because there’s a lot to cover here! Meet the Grey Ghost Gear SMC Plate Carrier and Back Panels.

As you may know, the Minimalist Plate Carrier has been the one and only carrier offered by the PNW based nylon gear manufacturer. Just like the name implies, the Minimalist was designed as a no frills, one size fits all carrier that lacked extra bells and whistles like a cummerbund and side plate pockets, but hit a sub $140 price point that made it a favorite among firearm instructors, on and off duty officers, and even CrossFit weight trainers. Despite its obvious simplicity, many GGG fans have been clamoring for a more “jocked” up carrier that would accommodate more features that professional users demand.

The SMC Plate Carrier (Shoot, Move, Communicate) is Grey Ghost Gear’s contender in the elite ring of carriers that only a small group of gear manufacturers compete in. Designed specifically for SOCOM and JSOC end users who are already accustomed to using modular zippered back panels, quick release systems and laser cut laminate designs, the SMC line of gear brings a whole new level of innovation to the company’s tactical product lineup. “It’s everything we’ve wanted in a lightweight, combat-ready plate carrier, and we’ve worked closely with some of our nation’s most radical individuals to design a carrier and supporting back panels that fit their needs right now, right as you are reading this sentence” says GGG SOCOM Special Projects Manager David Hannah.

“We’re an end-user focused company, and we’ve designed the whole SMC line specifically for warfighters and law enforcement professionals across the spectrum of operations. These elite units and individuals have special needs and requirements that can change at the very last minute even as you are on route to the mission. Imagine, you’re already on the bird with your team and the mission changes from Direct Action, to Hostage Rescue to SSE (Sensitive Site Exploitation), the ability to rapidly change your squad’s loadout is paramount. You don’t have time to unweave your pouches and reconfigure each squad member’s carrier. Rigging up secondary carriers for your whole team on the fly takes up too much valuable time and focus. That’s why most SOCOM units already utilize a modular system consisting of zippers that allow back panels to be rapidly swapped out in a matter of seconds.” Grey Ghost Gear has designed the SMC Carrier and SMC back panels to work with this already established footprint and expound on the different custom panels and packs that are desperately needed by these JSOC operators currently deployed.

The SMC panels that Grey Ghost Gear has designed almost outshine the carrier itself. For those who already have an issued carrier with zippers in the back, you’re in for a real treat. First off, the 1 to 3 Assault Pack. It is an expandable backpack that can not only scale from a 24 to 36-hour pack with its internal zippered gusset, but also has its own hidden shoulder straps for when you just want to roll in plain clothes. It has been tested for freefall operations, with no spider harness required. When the pack is expanded into the 3-day configuration, a dry bag closure keeps all your goodies inside dry.

Next, the SMC Assaulter Panel: three permanent yet adjustable double mag pouches and a built-in utility pouch, perfect for keeping your squad mates topped off with fresh mags, smoke and frags. The pouches have flaps that can adjust in length to perfectly envelope your mag of choice, no matter the size. There’s even an internal loop for securing grenades, because bending a spoon is a rough way to end the day. It will also hold one full MRE, a log of snuff and three 16oz cans of your favorite beverage.

For the DIY type, GGG also has released a MOLLE or Laser Cut Laminate back panel for you to customize yourself with those extra pouches you’ve got laying around the garage. To quote GGG’s website description: “It’s like a blank canvas, but for violence.” For those who don’t have zippers equipped on their existing carrier, Grey Ghost is also offering Zipper Adapters. Simply use the MALICE^® Clips to attach the adaptors to your Minimalist or other carrier and WHAMO, you’re now ready to use the SMC back panels. Last but not least, every SMC Back Panel has an internal compartment that can open up to accommodate bolt cutters, charges, or a water bladder (anti-sag built in)

The SMC Carrier is adjustable for most warrior body types via the cummerbund interlocking system in the back as well as adjustable shoulder straps for torso height

Designed to carry a pair of 10×12 hard plates, thicker composite plates with a second change backer (soft armor) or large ESAPI plates, the SMC Plate Carrier features laser cut laminate, giving you all the modularity of traditional MOLLE webbing at a significant reduction in weight. Longevity is also increased as cut edges resist fraying after they are heat sealed with the laser. The included adjustable cummerbund features MOLLE/PALS style webbing for the addition of pouches for side plates if desired, and the front panel also features an open pocket for maps, water/cable retention or enough room for a fleece watch cap or gloves.

This carrier is “one size fits most” thanks to its adjustable shoulder straps and cummerbund, ensuring a snug fit for just about every warrior’s body type. Should you find yourself on fire, trapped in a tight spot or unexpectedly going for a swim, the ROC buckles on each shoulder strap and either side of the cummerbund can be rapidly released in case of emergency. These also make putting on the carrier much more convenient when you are in a hurry. The shoulder ROC buckles are easily removable if you prefer to use the metal common loop that is already attached.

The SMC Plate Carrier can be found now on GGG’s website with an MSRP of $302 for Black and Coyote Brown and $322 for MultiCam^® with the first week of April being the estimated delivery. As for each of the back panels that are available now:

SMC 1-3 Assault Pack has an MSRP of $175 ($185 for MultiCam^®)
SMC Assaulter Panel has an MSRP of $115 ($120 for MultiCam^®)
SMC MOLLE Panel has an MSRP of $95 ($105 for MultiCam^®)
SMC Tall Zipper Adaptor has an MSRP of $35 ($38 for MultiCam^®)

Looking for a back panel with a little more Chutzpah? Seen at SHOT Show 2020, Grey Ghost Gear and sister company Tactical Tailor collaborated on a back panel that holds 15 40mm grenade rounds. Available from Tactical Tailor, this back panel shares compatibility with the Grey Ghost Gear SMC line as well as many issued carriers with integrated zippers on the back.

With the launch of the SMC Back Panels, Grey Ghost’s sister company Tactical Tailor helped produce 40mm grenade back panels for DOD customers by request

Visit http://www.greyghostgear.com for more details.

Posted in Admin | Comments Off on Shoot, Move, Communicate: Modular Plate Carrier and Back Panels from Grey Ghost Gear

GAOS 20 – FN 509 Compact MRD

February 6th, 2020

A great thing about GAOS is that manufacturers display their wares and answer the buying public’s’ questions.

In this case, FN USA is showing off the new FN 509 Compact MRD.

Like it’s full and mid sized counterparts, it’s a 9mm, striker fired pistol with a flat faced trigger. The barrel is 3.7-inch barrel and comes with 12+1 capacity, but will accept other, larger 509 magazines. The pistol includes two different back straps to accommodate different fits.

The big thing going on is that this is an optics ready pistols, incorporating FN’s Low-Profile Optics Mounting System which accepts nearly all commercially available miniature red dot optics and features blackout iron sights that co-witness.

Available in booth Black and FDE.

Posted in Advertiser, GAOS, weapons | Comments Off on GAOS 20 – FN 509 Compact MRD

GAOS 20 – Magpul

February 6th, 2020

A dream date with a dream gun.

I started going to GAOS a few years ago after talking to Drake at Magpul who told me it was a great way to meet a whole new group of Gun enthusiasts. He’s right!

Drake is seen here with a Ruger PC9 outfitted with the new Magpul Backpacker Stock and PMAG D-50 9mm 50 round drum.

Posted in Advertiser, GAOS, Weapon Accessories | 1 Comment »

2020 Great American Outdoor Show

February 6th, 2020

It’s that time of year again kids!

We are already over halfway through the NRA’s Great American Outdoor Show in Harrisburg, PA. You’d think that it wouldn’t be packed smack dab in the middle of the week, but you’d be wrong. Thousands of outdoor enthusiasts, entire families are here in force. I drove over five hours to get here. If you’re in driving range, experience it, at least once.

Posted in GAOS | Comments Off on 2020 Great American Outdoor Show