FirstSpear

New SIG SAUER Academy Course: Ballistic Data Xchange Optics System

June 7th, 2019

Get Ready for Hunting Season at the SIG SAUER Academy with the Ballistic Data Xchange (BDX) Optics System Course

NEWINGTON, N.H., (June 6, 2019) –SIG SAUER Academy, the leading provider of the highest quality firearms instruction and tactical training in the world, is pleased to announce the addition of the Ballistic Data Xchange (BDX™) Optics System Course to the upcoming class schedule.  

974FF596-86D1-4ED2-A051-DA645C858BB2

The SIG SAUER Electro-Optics Ballistic Data Xchange Optics System combines traditional hunting equipment with technology. BDX is a fully integrated rangefinder and riflescope system that utilizes Applied Ballistics Ultralight and Bluetooth™ using an Android or iOS device to calculate and illuminate the exact holdover dot for the perfect shot. BDX™ is simple, fast, and intuitive – just connect the dot.

The BDX Optics System Course explores the practical understanding of the complete BDX system and its application for hunting, training, and competition for the precision scoped rifle shooter.  Students in this one-day course will learn how to operate the already easy to use BDX system, and apply their skills on the range with the BDX system shooting multiple targets at varying distances.

A complete BDX system will be provided to all class participants for hands-on-use and training.

The first offering of the Ballistic Data Xchange (BDX) Optics System Operator is June 18, 2019.  To register and review the course outline for Ballistic Data Xchange (BDX) Optics System, or review the comprehensive course offering for SIG SAUER Academy visit sigsaueracademy.com.

 

USMC Canvases Industry For Integrated Helmet System

June 7th, 2019

This week, the Marine Corps Systems Command issued a Request for Information to Industry, seeking a Berry Amendment compliant Integrated Helmet System.

Just last year, the Marines evaluated mid and high cut helmets during Urban Advanced Naval Technology Exercise 2018 (Urban ANTX-18) at Camp Pendleton, California and purchased a small number of Enhanced Combat Helmets in these shapes for further testing.

The Marine Corps envisions IHS as a lightweight helmet system (includes shell, suspension, retention system, and other mounting devices) that will provide an integrated head protection platform for infantry and infantry-like Marines. The IHS will be employed by male and female Marines under various environmental conditions for long durations in conjunction with other gear and equipment. With the increased number of battery powered optics and other attachments to the helmet, the amount of exposed/unsecure wires and battery packs are increasing. The Marine Corps is looking for an optimized configuration to allow power and/or data to flow to the attachments while minimizing bulk.

In addition to a universal, modular mounting system for all components that allows for compatibility with legacy and future capabilities, IHS must be compatible with the following:
– Communications/hearing protection
– Night Vision Devices including external battery components
– Power cable management or power transfer
– Eye protection
– CBRN Equipment (mask and cover)
– Standard Marine Corps clothing
– Oxygen mask
– Rail system to mount ancillary devices
– Body armor
– USMC Pack

Here are the desired ballistic capabilities of IHS:

Minimum V50 BL(P)s

Additionally, the finished helmet, including any hardware exposed on the outside of the shell (if hardware is used for any attachments), shall be resistant to penetration from a 9 mm FMJ RN bullet at 1400 (+50, –0)ft/sec at 0° obliquity.

IHS must also protect from bump or blunt impacts. At a minimum, no individual acceleration shall exceed 150 G (gravitational constant) at 10ft/s. Greater impact protection (i.e., fewer G) is desired.

Below are the maximum weights by size.

Once again, the Marines plan to use Mid Tear Acquisition to conduct an “Other Transaction Agreement (OTA)” a process which is being used more and more to quickly test and field mature technologies and equipment. In the event a contract is awarded, the minimum order will be 24,000 IHS, delivered within one year of First Article approval.

Those interested have until 5 July, 2019, at 11:59 Eastern to submit.

SureFire Field Notes Ep 44 -Tactical Application of Competition Shooting with Mike Pannone

June 7th, 2019

Mike Pannone is a former operational member of U.S. Marine Reconnaissance, Army Special Forces (Green Beret) and 1st SFOD-D (Delta) as well as a competition USPSA pistol shooter holding a Master class ranking in Limited, Limited-10 and Production divisions. He has participated in stabilization, combat and high-risk protection operations in support of U.S. policies throughout the world as both an active duty military member, and a civilian contractor. After sustaining a severe blast injury Mike retired from 1st SFOD-D and worked as a Primary Firearms Instructor for the Federal Air Marshal Program in Atlantic City and the head in-service instructor for the Seattle field office of the FAMS. He also worked as an independent contractor and advisor for various consulting companies to include SAIC (PSD Iraq), Triple Canopy (PSD Iraq), and The Wexford Group (Counter IED ground combat advisor Iraq and pre-deployment rifle/pistol/tactics instructor for the Asymmetric Warfare Group). Mike was also the Senior Instructor for Viking Tactics (VTAC), and Blackheart International. He started his own consulting company full time in late 2008.

Presented by SureFire

G Outdoors, Inc. Release New ‘Handgunner’ Backpack In Prym1 BlackOut

June 7th, 2019

We’re proud to announce the release of our brand new ‘Handgunner’ Range Backpack in Prym1 BlackOut ® (GPS-1711BP Handgunner). With the ‘handgunner’ already being our #1 selling product, the updated Prym1 Blackout ® pattern gives this product a fresh new look, that is sure to turn heads with your friends at the range!

 

The reason the “Handgunner” has become our #1 selling product is because we have designed something new that addresses all of the problems that exist with with other range backpacks on the market today. Our Range pack is designed to stand upright and features a rigid construction 360 degrees. This stand alone G.P.S. design allows us to make a front door that folds flat for pistol storage. All other Range Backpacks use some kind of pistol sleeve or pistol case to secure the handguns.  We took a different approach and designed a foam block that is precisely cut by a CNC machine to hold 4 medium frame pistols. We took great care in measuring all of the popular pistols to be able to make this new foam cradle in the perfect size. Now you don’t need extra pistol sleeves to store your pistols. The GPS Foam Cradle holds 4 pistols in a downward position and is held by the trigger guard. The material is heat and chemical resistant and slides into the belly compartment for storage and ease of transport” 

– Patrick Gee

– G Outdoors, Inc.

This  “free standing” backpack allows for hands free transportation to and from the range. Our new “Handgunner Backpack” was designed to allow the avid handgun shooter a way to transport his handguns, 12 extra magazines, ammo, shooting glasses, ear protection, targets, stapler, tape, bino’s, shooting mats, cleaning supplies all in a compact backpack. 

By utilizing our patented Visual ID Storage System we have designed separate pockets that store your most frequently used items for added protection and easy retrieval. The most unique feature is the inside storage cradle that slides in and out of the lower compartment. This foam cradle was designed to hold 4 medium to small size handguns in a VERTICAL format. This Vertical format allows for ease of use at the range and added protection from 360 degrees. This cradle is made of high density foam and is cut with a CNC machine to cradle each pistol by its trigger guard. Just slide out the cradle at the range and keep all 4 pistols organized. After shooting, remove the cradle with the handguns inside for cleaning and then for storage in your gun safe. No need to open and close pistol cases or rugs each time you intend to use. The “Handgunner” backpack also features a waterproof pull out cover to help keep the contents dry in case of a sudden downpour.

Please visit our web site to learn more about our exciting GPS line of Range gear at GoutdoorsProducts.com

For more information on Prym1 Camo and their licensed products visit: prym1camo.com

Introducing ARC WML Enhanced Switches Bypass PHLster

June 7th, 2019

B0E66214-38EC-4B04-9E64-A15B8C721E0A

For years, serious shooters have been executing DIY modifications to their WML switches. Using JB Weld, putty, or epoxy, shooters have been improving their speed and consistency of WML activation by building up the small switch nubs on their lights. Drawing on those years of end-user experience, PHLster is excited to announce the launch of their ARC Enhanced WML Switches.

6AD4F7C9-2CA0-4A53-A8E4-77CEB4678A0E

Shipping as a set of three pairs of switch enhancements, the ARC allows users to decrease the distance between activation fingers and switches, optimize their light for right or left handed use, improve speed and consistency of activation based on their preferred method, and reliably engage the WML switches with gloved or wet hands.

EE1A5A8A-1C18-46C9-9D3C-0A09B0B8C447

Each set of switch enhancements includes a Large, Extra Large, and Extra Large Blank set of switches. The L and XL are both aggressively textured and the XL Blank allows users to shape, carve, and stipple the switches to fit their specific requirements, while remaining within a holster-friendly dimension.

D43E956B-E695-4994-BFA8-79321CBAB1E7

If you have short fingers, are tired of compromising your grip to activate the WML, dislike grip switches, need more reach to activate the switches when installed on certain pistols, or just want to make WML activation faster and easier, the PHLster ARC is a necessary upgrade.

511E71C2-913A-40B9-92FF-954BEC976EC4

Switch installation is easy and requires no permanent modification. The stock switch nubs are easily removed with pliers or a small screwdriver and the enhanced switch end- caps press on to the switch armature bar. And, the ARC switch enhancements fit pretty much every decent WML holster on the market, including Safariland and many, many others.

1D285379-3CC5-4769-A640-2D5AB42EDECD

At launch, the ARC is available at PHLsterHolsters.com and BigTexOutdoors.com for $24.99.

FirstSpear Friday Focus – Non Stocking Non Standard Roo Panel

June 7th, 2019

E8F42CAD-B30B-450C-AFC2-C389929327C9

For this Friday Focus we are taking a look at a FirstSpear Non-Stocking Non-Standard item, the Roo Panel. Originally developed for a FS professional user to meet a unique mission set this pocket can be used as storage for maps, info cards, electronics, medical, or anything else you may need with you out in the field. The interior of the pocket is loop-backed thanks to FirstSpear Laser Cut 6/12 so you can attach FirstSpear Ragnar pockets on interior as well as mount any standard 6/12, 6/9, or MOLLE style pocket to the exterior.

Non-Stocking Non-Standard items are available in limited colors and sizes while supplies last, no back orders will be filled.

www.first-spear.com/roo-panel

You Never Know Where They’ll Show Up

June 7th, 2019

SSD Reader J was on Omaha Beach, observing the 75th Anniversary of D-Day.

Beyond Clothing Launches New Line with Direct-to-Consumer Model

June 6th, 2019

Seattle-based manufacturer implements new steps to ensure affordable technical apparel

SEATTLE, Wash. (June 3, 2019) – Since 1996, Beyond Clothing has pioneered the most complete technical clothing system to support those heading into the harshest environments. Now, for the first time in the company’s history, Beyond Clothing will be offering their new Kyros clothing line exclusively through a direct to consumer sales model. The unrivaled knowledge and product testing that goes into their systems mean that their pieces are built to standards of uncompromising quality and integrity, and help ensure adventurers and explorers thrive in temperatures from -70oF to 106oF.

Beyond Clothing will be implementing a new direct to consumer sales model – by removing wholesale and middlemen dealers, the Kyros lines will be both accessible and incredibly affordable. Rick Elder, President of Beyond Clothing, shared: “Our overall goal is to provide the modern-day explorer with the knowledge, tools, and proper clothing to explore the wild and wonderful corners of the world. This direct-to-consumer strategy will allow us to focus on providing our valuable knowledge and proper expeditionary clothing at the most competitive price on the market.”

As the largest technical clothing manufacturer in the United States, Beyond Clothing has been renowned for their line of apparel cut and sewn in Seattle from the most advanced USA-made fabrics available. The new Kyros collection is the company’s first-ever imported product, designed with the same knowledge and experience gained through the company’s long history of outfitting professional expeditionary teams. These new imported products not only meet the standards and requirements that Beyond is known for, they also utilize technically advanced fabrics and styles that can work in the most remote mountains just as well as a city street anywhere on the planet.

Beyond Clothing will now be able to directly control the quality of experience that every customer receives as they browse and purchase the Kyros line. Beyond believes that everyone deserves to get outdoors without having the price of their gear be a barrier to access. With this in mind, Beyond Clothing encourages everyone to find the spirit of adventure within themselves and go farther.

beyondclothing.com