Wilcox BOSS Xe

GA-ASI and USMC Complete MQ-9A WTI Training with SkyTower I Pod

May 17th, 2024

SAN DIEGO – 16 May 2024 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) teamed up to conduct flight training on the operation of the MQ-9A Block 5 Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) for the Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One (MAWTS-1) at Marine Corps Air Station in Yuma, Arizona. The students participated in Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) Course 2-24, which is a comprehensive course designed for select pilots and enlisted aircrew that incorporates Marine Corps planning along with implementation of advanced air and ground tactics.

The seven-week course, which was completed on April 20, 2024, for the first time included the employment of GA-ASI’s SkyTower I pod, which is a USMC-specific payload for MQ-9A that provides airborne communication extension capabilities in various waveforms. SkyTower I provides an Airborne Network Extension to the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) that is a commercial-quality WiFi network, as well as a relay/repeater function connecting geographically disconnected teams.

“Congratulations to the newest graduates of WTI,” said GA-ASI Vice President of DoD Strategic Development Patrick Shortsleeve. “GA-ASI is proud to support the training of the MAWTS-1 aircrews in the use and utility of the MQ-9A platform, especially now with our SkyTower capabilities.”

The WTI course is renowned for its advanced graduate-level training, particularly in refining tactical skills and strategies for aviation operations. It is an integral part of developing and implementing cutting-edge aviation weapons and tactics, both in terrestrial and maritime settings.

In recent training scenarios, the Marines had the opportunity to hone their skills using a GA-ASI-supplied MQ-9A. The platform provides valuable hands-on experience in operating advanced UAS, enhancing their proficiency in utilizing MQ-9A effectively for various missions.

Graduates of the WTI program are poised to become go-to experts within their squadrons for the employment of MQ-9A Block 5, leveraging their comprehensive training and specialized knowledge. The program ensures that graduates are well-prepared to lead and execute missions utilizing this sophisticated platform with precision and efficiency.

This training is a critical part of the MAGTF Unmanned Expeditionary (MUX) Medium-Altitude, Long-Endurance (MALE) program meeting Full Operational Capability (FOC). GA-ASI is a committed partner in helping the USMC meet this critical program milestone.

GA-ASI has delivered 13 MQ-9A UAS to the USMC so far. The USMC awaits delivery of seven additional aircraft, which will fulfill their goal of three squadrons by 2025.

SilencerCo Giving Away TWO Suppressors Each Day at NRAAM

May 17th, 2024

May 17, 2024 — West Valley City, UT —  SilencerCo will be giving away two suppressors each day at the 2024 NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits (NRAAM). Attendees can enter for the chance to win one of these suppressors at SilencerCo’s booth (#6504) in Dallas, Texas from May 17th to May 19th. 

The giveaway will feature some of SilencerCo’s most recently released suppressors. It will include the following:

• Winner’s Choice – A Suppressor from SilencerCo’s Premium Lineup (Spectre 9, Scythe-Ti, and Velos Series) –
silencerco.com/silencers 

• Velos LBP 556 K –
silencerco.com/silencers/velos-lbp

• Velos LBP 762 –
silencerco.com/silencers/velos-lbp

• Spectre 9 – silencerco.com/silencers/spectre-9 

The Velos LBP Series of suppressors was designed to protect shooters from gas blowback to the face. The Velos LBP 556K provides a more compact and maneuverable option while the Velos LBP 762 gives shooters caliber versatility. The Spectre 9 is SilencerCo’s newest titanium suppressor designed for pistols and subguns. It’s extremely lightweight and also full-auto rated. 

In order to register, attendees must visit SilencerCo’s booth and complete the registration form. Winners must be present at the show and will be contacted daily by phone and email. Winners who don’t respond within 48 hours will forgo their prize and another winner will be chosen. Once all winners are confirmed, SilencerCo will make an official announcement in their weekly Eblast. 

For more information on the NRRAM, visit www.nraam.org. To learn more about SilencerCo products go to silencerco.com/silencers

Eligible winners must be 21 years or older and reside in one of the 42 states where silencers are legal. Non-silencer-friendly states are not eligible for full or partial winnings. The winner is also responsible for providing a transfer FFL/SOT within their state and must cover the cost of the $200 tax stamp and any other transfer fees. No purchase is necessary in order to enter. Void where prohibited. The winner is responsible for all Federal and State taxes incurred (where applicable). 

Happy Big 16 to SSD

May 17th, 2024

I’ve been so busy I didn’t even realize today is the anniversary of our founding. A reader just informed me at the NRA Annual Meeting.

Phokus Research Receives Patent for Wound Cube

May 17th, 2024

San Diego, CA- Phokus Research Group, known for life-saving innovations and logistics, has recently been granted a patent for their Wound Cube Wound Simulator. The instructional tool utilizes unique features that make teaching wound packing more accessible, easy to understand and practice.

The Wound Cube features an innovative design with five large, lifelike wound patterns that provide students with various training options. The transparent, soft silicone cube ensures students are utilizing proper wound packing techniques, and the compact design allows for easy transportability and storage.

“To have the Wound Cube, a product that helps to save lives, verified to be unique enough that it deserves a patent is something that everyone at Phokus is very proud of”, said Christopher Bush, Chief Revenue Officer (CRO).

At Phokus, our mission for over 15 years has been to serve America and its allies with innovative, high-quality solutions. We are dedicated to excellence in three core segments: Products, Logistics, and Integrations. For further insights into Phokus Research, please visit www.phokusresearch.com.

HUXWRX Safety Co Announces Partnership with Genesis Arms to Introduce VENTUM 12K Shotgun Suppressor

May 17th, 2024

[Salt Lake City, UT, May 2024] – In a collaboration designed to revolutionize the shooting experience, HUXWRX Safety Co. (HUXWRX) and Genesis Arms (Genesis) announce a strategic partnership and unveil the VENTUM 12k, a groundbreaking new shotgun suppressor.

The VENTUM 12k suppressor boasts an impressive array of features. This compact and lightweight design prioritizes maneuverability without sacrificing functionality. Full auto-rated, it caters to law enforcement and military applications. This suppressor effectively reduces the sound signature of a shotgun blast, enhancing the experience for hunters, target shooters, and those using shotguns for self-defense. A unique breacher cap also provides a tactical advantage for law enforcement and military personnel. This suppressor attaches toGenesis shotguns without requiring any firearm modificationsand is compatible with breaching loads and recreational shotgun loads.

“We are thrilled to partner with Genesis Arms to bring the VENTUM 12k shotgun suppressor to market,” said Richard Elder CEO of HUXWRX Safety Co. “This collaboration showcases our commitment to pushing the boundaries of suppressor technology and providing shooters with the highest quality products.”

This partnership combines the expertise of HUXWRX in suppressor design and Genesis Arms’ reputation for premium shotguns. The result is a state-of-the-art shotgun suppressor offering unmatched performance and reliability.

HUXWRX Safety Co Launches Highly Anticipated Flow 5.56 TI Suppressor

May 17th, 2024

[Salt Lake City, UT, May 2024] – HUXWRX Safety Co.(HUXWRX) announces the release of the FLOW 556 Ti, a long-awaited addition to their esteemed FLOW Series.

The FLOW 556 Ti is about more than reducing noise—it enhances overall performance. Engineered with patented Flow-Through® and Torque Lock® technologies, this suppressor delivers exceptional toxic fume mitigation, accuracy, and unmatched repeatability. Additionally, its integrated GeoFlash™ Cap geometry effectively minimizes flash, further solidifying its position as a leader in signature reduction functionality. Entirely 3D-printed with Grade 5 titanium, the FLOW 556 Ti offers unparalleled lightweight construction without compromising longevity or functionality. Its innovative design makes it the lightest 5.56 dedicated suppressor to emerge from HUXWRX’s laboratories.

“The launch of our first full-size 5.56 suppressor in the FLOW Series signifies a pivotal advancement in our product line,” saidRichard Elder, CEO at HUXWRX. “We’re proud to deliver a product that exceeds the long-awaited expectations of consumers, setting a new standard in the industry.”

Designed to excel in extreme conditions, the FLOW 556 Ti is full auto-rated with no barrel restrictions, providing users with unmatched versatility and reliability. Installation and operation are effortless, requiring no modifications to the platform or gas system, other than a HUXWRX QD muzzle device.

HUXWRX Safety Co. is pioneering technology in high-velocity environments with innovative systems that integrate safety and performance seamlessly. Trusted by armed forces and law enforcement agencies worldwide, HUXWRX is quickly becoming the suppressor standard of choice, owing to the simplicity and effectiveness of their systems. With a safety-forward approach integrated into every design, their productsensure operational capability and peace of mind. Their patented and proven Flow-Through® technology mitigates sound and flash signatures while reducing exposure to toxic fumes without compromising weapon reliability or functionality. HUXWRX Safety Co. is leading advancements that redefine firearm suppression in an age of rapid technological evolution.

For more information about the FLOW 556 Ti and other groundbreaking products from HUXWRX Safety Co., please visit huxwrx.com.

Pro-Shot Defense Issued NSNs for Ruck Series Weapon Cleaning Kits

May 17th, 2024

[Taylorville, IL, 05/16/2024] – Pro-Shot Defense (Cage Code 5QGZ6), a leading provider of superior American-made Berry-compliant weapon cleaning systems, proudly announces the issuance of multiple National Stock Numbers (NSNs) for its acclaimed Ruck Series compact and lightweight weapon cleaning systems. These NSN assignments mark a significant milestone in Pro-Shot Defense’s ongoing commitment to delivering top-tier weapon maintenance solutions to military personnel worldwide.

The Pro-Shot Ruck Series Weapon Cleaning Kits are crafted to elevate the efficiency and effectiveness of military firearm maintenance. Featuring all the necessary tools for comprehensive field or bench cleaning, these kits showcase Pro-Shot Defense’s hallmark Pro-Tuff coated cleaning rods, Multi-Purpose Swivel T Handle, and Bio Mil-Spec CLP (MIL-PRF-63460G), ensuring superior performance and reliability in any environment.

Renowned for their exceptional reliability, portability, and performance in the field, the Ruck Series Weapon Cleaning Kits have garnered acclaim from soldiers and armory professionals alike. With NSNs now assigned for various weapons, Pro-Shot Defense is poised to further enhance its support for military personnel by simplifying procurement processes and seamlessly integrating into military supply chains.

“The Pro-Shot Defense team is thrilled to unveil the NSNs for the Pro-Shot Ruck Series cleaning rod weapon cleaning systems,” commented Grady Burrell, Military Director at Pro-Shot Defense. “These solutions for various weapons were born out of extensive engagement with soldiers and armories, fulfilling their needs for a superior cleaning kit in all field situations and environments. The Ruck Series kits embody our unwavering commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance solutions directly from end-users.”

NSN & Nomenclature

NSN: 1005-01-717-5478  
Mfg# RUCK-COY-9   
Ruck Series Coyote 9mm M17/M18 Pistol Cleaning Rod System

NSN: 1005-01-718-0691     
Mfg# RUCK-COY-5.56   
Ruck Series Coyote M4 5.56mm Cleaning Rod System

NSN: 1005-01-718-0708  
Mfg# RUCK-COY-5.56/9MM   
Ruck Series Coyote 5.56mm/9mm M4/M17 Cleaning Rod System

NSN: 1005-01-718-0907      
Mfg# RUCK-MC-30 
Ruck Series Multi-Cam .30 Cal./7.62mm Cleaning Rod System 

NSN: 1005-01-718-0727   
Mfg# RUCK-COY-50 
Ruck Series Coyote .50 Cal./12.7mm  M107 / M2A1 Cleaning Rod System

For more information about Pro-Shot Defense and its Ruck Series Weapon Cleaning Kits with NSN-compatible cleaning kit options, please visit www.ProShotDefense.com or contact Grady Burrell, Pro-Shot Defense Military Director.

Contact: Grady Burrell, Pro-Shot Defense Military Director

Email: grady@proshotproducts.com Ph: 828.421.4349 Website: www.ProShotDefense.com

FirstSpear Friday Focus: 1st Phorm OEM Spotlight

May 17th, 2024

This Friday we’re featuring a new OEM Spotlight with 1stPhorm. Based in Fenton, MO as well, FirstSpear has built their latest fitness/tactical plate carrier. The operator plate carrier is available in Woodland & Coyote!

Why did you choose to collaborate with FirstSpear?

1st Phorm has an uncompromising demand to produce the best quality product. There was no other choice than FirstSpear when we looked for partners to help design and build the carrier. FirstSpear supplies the best equipment to elite Tier 1 Units around the world and that’s the quality we were looking for.

Where did the need for the new 1st Phorm plate carrier come from?

Everything on the market was bulky, poor quality, limited the wearers mobility and very hot to train in. We had a need to make a high quality and comfortable vest that our customers could use as a tool to advance their training.

Explain the new vest and why you chose FirstSpear Tubes™ technology.

Whether you’re in the gym, knocking out an outdoor walk, or training on the tactical range … Introducing more weight resistance is your ticket to taking your health & fitness to the next level. Designed to combine comfort, functionality, and modularity to fit your needs, this cutting-edge training accessory will be the perfect tool to help you increase your workload to ultimately earn better results!

Run the Operator Plate Carrier slick (as shipped), or scale it up with your favorite MOLLE-compatible pouches and accessories.

(Weight plates not included)

Why choose the Operator Plate Carrier?

Made in the USA – Every plate carrier is cut, sewn, and assembled right here in St. Louis, Missouri by generational Master Seamstresses. You can be confident you’re getting the absolute best with the Operator Plate Carrier!

Built to Last – Crafted with lightweight, durable 500D Cordura® materials, our plate carrier is designed to withstand the test of time. You can count on the Operator Plate Carrier to be your trusted training partner for years to come.

Lifetime Warranty on Materials & Workmanship – If your training has taken a toll on your plate carrier, we’ll work with you to get it fixed.

Other Key Features:

FirstSpear Tubes® – Quickly & easily put on and take off your plate carrier with a pull of the handle after your training. You can also easily switch between fitness and tactical add-on placards depending on your training and plate carrier needs. FirstSpear Tubes are optimized for convenience & modularity, and the Operator Plate Carrier is no exception to this.

6/12™ Technology – This technology has been designed, adopted, and trusted by Tier 1 Special Operations units worldwide, to bring you a pocket attachment system that utilizes state of the art fabric technologies to deliver a lightweight & completely modular MOLLE pocket-compatible system to fit your needs.

Velcro Hook & Loop – Allows for easy customization with identifiers, or your favorite 1st Phorm patches.

Plate Compatibility – Made to securely hold medium-sized SAPI-cut fitness plates as well as similarly-sized weight plates, such as Rogue Weight Vest Plates, and Wolf Tactical Weight Vest Plates.

*10″x12″ SAPI-cut ceramic ballistic plates may be too thick.

For more information, check out: 1stphorm.com/collections/vests/products/operator-plate-carrier

For more information about FirstSpear, check out: www.first-spear.com.