Primary Arms

FirstSpear Friday Focus – Cell Tags

August 18th, 2023

Do you or your team need to be labeled and identified easily and effectively? Check out the FirstSpear Cell Tag! Our patented Cell Tags solve the problem of identifying key and specific personnel under passive and thermal night vision with ease. Don’t let your team get confused – the FirstSpear Cell Tag is the perfect way to differentiate and label key members. Let our unique and top-of-the-line precision cutting and bonding processes do the hard work for you! Whether it’s a call sign, an identifier or other information that you need to quickly display, the Cell Tag has you covered. It’s easy to attach to technical clothing or equipment with its hook back design. Take the confusion out of tedious night ops with the FirstSpear Cell Tag.

Visit FirstSpear to find American Made kit and accessories, Built For The X.

Army Kicks Off Network Field Experiments

August 18th, 2023

JOINT BASE McGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. — Army scientists and engineers are kicking off the annual Network Modernization Experiment, or NetModX, as they move their capabilities from the lab to a field environment across the New Jersey installation.

The Army’s Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Center conducts NetModX at JB-MDL and Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, over eight weeks as a capstone experimentation event. It creates an operationally relevant, threat-informed environment to prove out disruptive and transformative C5ISR technologies. The C5ISR Center is an element of the Combat Capabilities Development Command.

The center’s field experimentation builds upon its modeling and simulation work and lab research, according to Noah Weston, the C5ISR Center’s chief of strategic experimentation. The NetModX team partners with subject-matter experts from across the Army to design experiments that best address the Army’s needs and gaps.

“The Army needs data to make the right decisions at the right time to mature science and technology products to be deployable,” Weston said. “Experimentation allows us to obtain early data on system performance that can inform future Army requirements.”

The C5ISR Center conducts NetModX, which is composed of about 80 technologies for 2023, with the Army’s programs of record, cross-functional teams, other DEVCOM organizations and industry partners for an approach that ranges from science and technology to acquisition.

“NetModX expands our knowledge of emerging networking technologies in relevant field conditions and fosters critical early collaboration between government and industry partners,” said Stephen Blair, senior science and technology advisor for the Network Cross-Functional Team, part of Army Futures Command. “It informs our collective efforts to reduce network complexity at lower echelons; increase speed and survivability through mobile command posts; manage electronic signature; and improve interoperability.”

NetModX intends to deliver key insights to help transition capabilities from the “art of the possible” to the “achievable,” said Joe Saldiveri, NetModX project lead and C5ISR Center engineer.

“These experimentation opportunities enable the Army stakeholders to come together to spark collaboration and inform critical decisions,” Saldiveri said.

The C5ISR Center partners with the Army’s Program Executive Office Command, Control and Communications-Tactical during NetModX to provide technical and operational data on emerging technology.

“Experimentation events such as NetModX support our network design efforts for the Army of 2030 or to inform conditions as we look forward to how our programs will support Army of 2040 network modernization,” said Assistant Program Executive Officer Ward Roberts. “NetModX data supports our developers with integration and technical maturity insight on targeted capability that has transition potential into programs of record and informs formulation of design goals as we work with Cross-Functional Team community.”

By Dan Lafontaine, DEVCOM C5ISR Center Public Affairs

RCBS Rumble Returns for Second Year

August 17th, 2023

Precision Rifle Match Draws Elite Shooters from Across U.S.

RCBS Pros Robert Brantley Takes Top Tactical, Melissa Gilliland Takes Top Lady

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – August 16, 2023 – RCBS®, the leading manufacturer of ammunition reloading equipment for rifles and pistols, congratulates RCBS pro shooters and the entire RCBS team for another successful “RCBS Rumble” — one of the most popular and fastest-selling Precision Rifle Series matches of the season.

A major high point for the RCBS brand as it celebrates its 80th anniversary, this year’s RCBS Rumble was held August 11-12 near Pleasant Hill, Missouri. With additional support from partners including Bushnell®, Hoppe’s®, Hodgdon®, GA Precision and Manner’s Composite Stocks, the Rumble drew 92 elite PRS shooters from across the country and sold out of registration spots in under an hour.

“This year’s RCBS Rumble was by all accounts a tremendous success,” said Laurie Kokoruda, senior product manager and match director. “We knew from the beginning that we wanted to make the course of fire even more challenging than the previous year, so we added more movement and new obstacles for competitors to face. Of course, the weather itself added its own degree of difficulty. Despite the new challenges, we heard nothing but positive feedback from shooters throughout the match.”

The match had a go-big-or-go-home feel, presenting plenty of fresh challenges for competitors to navigate. Hot and humid weather on day one gave way to hard rains and fierce winds that partly obscured targets on day two. Over the course of two days, shooters worked their way through 18 unique stages, including a new shooting tower. In addition to the main competition, the match included side stages sponsored by Manners Composite Stocks and Bushnell.

Team RCBS and Elite Tactical shooter Robert Brantley took Top Tactical at the match, taking home one of the coveted RCBS custom press trophies. The win is Brantley’s third in a row as he continues to lead the points race for becoming the Top Tactical shooter of the 2023 PRS Season. Meanwhile, RCBS and Elite Tactical teammate Melissa Gilliland took Top Lady. First through third place winners won gold, silver and bronze Summit presses. Fourth and fifth place finishers were awarded a custom copper RCBS Rebel press.

“We greatly appreciate all the efforts that went into this match, from the volunteers to the range officers and sponsors,” said Kokoruda. “This is definitely an event that showcases the power of the RCBS brand, and we can’t wait to be back again next year.”

RCBS would like to congratulate all the shooters who participated in this year’s event as well as extend its thanks to the many sponsors and volunteers who helped make the match a success.

2023 RCBS Rumble Winners

1st Place – Brandon Hembree

2nd Place – Chris Opfer

3rd Place – Jeremy Von Glahn

Top Tactical – Robert Brantley

Top Production – Doug Koenig

Top Gas Gun – Scott Shreve

Top Sr. – Dale Rhoads

Top Mil/LE – Jarrod Berry

Topy Lady – Melissa Gilliland

Top Junior – Garrett Stephens

Top Amateur – Morgan Kenner

Top Marksman – Brent Harlan

To learn more about RCBS or to see the full lineup of RCBS products, check out RCBS.com

CTOMS Knowledge Bomb – Adapt Metered Dose Inhaler to BVM Port

August 17th, 2023

KNOWLEDGE BOMB:

A improvised technique to adapt a Metered Dose Inhaler to a BVM port. Excellent for asthmatic emergencies and allergic reactions. Useful for an unconscious hyperkalemic patient when treating H’s & T’s*. Some benefit in known asthmatics, blue bloaters and pink puffers in trauma or respiratory distress.

Required: Ventolin MDI, 60ml Syringe. Remove the rubber of the syringe plunger and insert the metered dose capsule. Reinsert the syringe plunger. The syringe tip will fit BVM medication apertures.

Technique via a CTOMS instructor.

*The H’s and T’s are 12 reversible conditions, 7 that start with H and 5 that start with T.

• Hypovolemia

• Hypoxia

• Hydrogen ion excess (acidosis)

• Hypoglycemia

• Hypokalemia

• Hyperkalemia

• Hypothermia

• Tension pneumothorax

• Tamponade – Cardiac

• Toxins

• Thrombosis (pulmonary embolus)

• Thrombosis (myocardial infarction)

Techniques are for use by qualified persons.

Carcajou Tactical – Webbing & Yoke System

August 17th, 2023

This is a webbing & yoke system developed by our Canadian friends at Carcajou Tactical.

Having grown up with a modified version of ALICE and then a home brewed belt kit, it’s great to see this making a come back.

New Agilite General Purpose Pouch

August 17th, 2023

Agilite just launched their General Purpose Pouch. It brings several new features to a basic pouch-see them in the video below:

For more details check it out at www.AgiliteGear.com

The New Mod 2 SOPMOD Stock from BCM

August 17th, 2023

Today, BCM unveils their latest buttstock, the Mod 2.

FIT LIKE A GLOVE BUILT LIKE A TANK

Hand made by Americans in Hartland, WI – the BCM® Mod 2 stock is an improvement over the baseline M4 accessory with enhanced ergonomics, and next-level durability.

Recontoured into a patented (United States Patent Number: D901616) semi-clubfoot design, the Mod 2 is fits on Mil-Spec carbine receiver extensions, and optimized for intermediate length receiver extensions (MK2, AR10, A5). These improved lines also enhance shooting in the prone position while remaining snag free, with no edges to catch or tangle in slings, antenna, or other PPE.

A SCION OF CONFLICT

DELIVERING UNSURPASSED PERFORMANCE

Retaining the patented* internal latch system and the ambidextrous rotation limited QD interface, the BCM Mod 2 Stock features an end user removable buttpad, an improved VBOST (Vehicle Borne Operations Sling Tab) sling retention point, “plus two additional web sling attachments slots.

ADAPT TO YOUR MISSION

VBOST

The VBOST is an interface that provides multiple positions for retention bands when the weapon system is run with the sling “S-folded” against the stock. Typically configured in this manner for vehicle operations or concealed “low vis” movement, the VBOST creates options for the end user that can be vital in critical life saving situations.

MODULAR BUTTPAD

Selecting between a rubberized pad, traditional in light infantry operations; or solid diamond textured non-slip surface, optimized for high-ready weapons manipulation, the removable Modular Buttpad is capable of enabling both techniques.

MADE IN AMERICA

All BCM components and accessories unite state of the art manufacturing with lightweight and durable materials to ensure components that last a lifetime, performing far beyond performance requirements established nearly six decades ago.

Get yours at bravocompanymfg.com/accessories-stock-mod2.html

Advanced Infantry Marine Course Hawaii

August 17th, 2023

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, HI —

Across the thick jungles and mountainous terrain of Oahu, U.S. Marines participating in the Advanced Infantry Marine Course execute their patrol plans under the watchful eye of their combat tested instructors. Each iteration of the course is mentally rigorous and physically demanding, pushing Marines to the limit of their capabilities, and molding them into ready, highly proficient warriors.

Over seven intense weeks, Marines hone multiple infantry skills such as calling for fire and close air support, patrolling techniques, jungle and urban terrain warfare, and casualty care. Each skill is first taught in the classroom, followed by demonstrations and practical application in the field. For these Hawaii Marines, training took place aboard Marine Corps Training Area Bellows and throughout the Kahuku Training Area, each offering a unique, and realistic venue to prepare for modern warfare. “MCTAB and KTA are perfect for creating authentic and realistic training scenarios for our students…” said Staff Sergeant Ricardo Hernandez, Staff non-commissioned officer in charge for Advanced Infantry Training Battalion, Hawaii Detachment.

[blockquote: “MCTAB serves as a crucial component in shaping the training experiences of our infantry marines.”: Staff Sergeant Ricardo Hernandez, Staff non-commissioned officer in charge for Advanced Infantry Training Battalion, Hawaii Detachment.

“The training areas have been designed to simulate urban environments, encompassing a diverse range of scenarios.”

For the students, all infantry Marines, the tropical climate, and the effects on the body present another variable for consideration during long patrols and extended operations in the field. This additional layer of realism offers a unique opportunity to students to make decisions and gain leadership experience when they are tired, hot, sweaty, and hungry. Sgt. Connor Hoovler, a rifleman with 3d Littoral Combat Team, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, 3d Marine Division, attests to the environmental impacts, “The climate and humidity make this course more difficult. Staying hydrated and maintaining peak performance are a constant struggle we face.” 

Aside from development of individual skills and the opportunity for Marines to learn more about themselves in stressful situations, AIMC also collectively develops cohesion, teamwork, and camaraderie. Even in the thick and humid jungle air, the students share a common bond – the ‘ohana spirit’ – thought responsible for building strong and resilient families. “Living out in the field for weeks at a time, your Marines to your left and right become life family,” Hoovler added. “Trust and seamless cooperation are crucial for team success.”

At the heart of AIMC lies the development of an adaptable mindset and decisive problem-solving skills. Marines learn to thrive in unpredictable environments and must make sound decisions on the fly. “The ability to devise effective solutions under pressure is invaluable,” said Lance Cpl. Nicholas D’angelo, a rifleman with 3d LCT, 3d MLR, 3d MARDIV. “It instills confidence and transforms us into more capable leaders.” Under high-pressure scenarios, trainees are tasked with crucial leadership roles and decision-making. “During the fleet event, I led my squad through a challenging blocking position, formulating and executing a plan under tight timeframes that tested my leadership abilities,” Hoovler said.

Completing the AIMC is a badge of honor and garners respect within the Marine’s platoon and their entire company. While it is a career requirement for many Marines, it serves as a stepping stone and showcases their dedication to their Military Occupational Specialty. AIMC is more than a training regimen; it’s a transformative journey that forges warriors. “The training environment at Marine Corps Base Hawaii is meticulously designed to deliver an unmatched level of realism, preparing our Marines for the complex and ever-evolving challenges of modern warfare,” said SSgt. Hernandez. These Marines emerge stronger, more resilient, and better equipped to face the unknown challenges that await them on the battlefields of the future, standing ever ready for any clime and place.

By Cpl Cody Purcell | Marine Corps Base Hawaii