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Shell Shock Technologies Signs Licensing Agreement with Phantom Defense for 8.6 BLK Ammunition

April 25th, 2025

Small design changes, massive ballistic gains. Phantom Defense is taking 8.6 BLK to the next level – with Shell Shock Technologies NAS3 case technology under the hood.

Eubank, KY (April 2025) – Shell Shock Technologies, LLC. (SST), a leading innovator in the ammunition industry, is proud to announce a new licensing agreement with Phantom Defense under its recently launched License Program. Through this partnership, Phantom Defense will manufacture the 8.6 Blackout (8.6 BLK) cartridge utilizing SST’s revolutionary NAS3 two-piece case design.

Phantom Defense’s upgraded 8.6 BLK will be built using SST’s proprietary case architecture, offering significant performance improvements while ensuring manufacturing consistency. Utilizing SST’s custom-built assembly equipment and trusted U.S.-based vendor network, Phantom Defense can deliver ammunition that matches SST’s rigorous standards.

“Phantom Defense is the ideal partner to showcase how our case technology can take modern ammunition to new heights,” said Peter Foss, Managing Partner and CEO of Shell Shock Technologies. “Their 8.6 BLK line exemplifies how small design changes can result in massive ballistic gains. We are excited to see what comes next.”

Drawing on SST’s data from recent 7.62×51 testing, Phantom’s 8.6 BLK round is expected to achieve:

50 Percent Case Weight Reduction: from 185 grains to just 92.5 grains, significantly cutting overall ammo weight and shooter fatigue.

Lower Chamber Pressure: from 35,000 PSI to ~33,125 PSI for the same velocity, reducing wear on firearms and improving shooter comfort.

Enhanced accuracy and thermal efficiency for superior suppressed precision shooting.

This marks the first of several anticipated agreements as SST expands its licensing program. Discussions are underway with additional manufacturers seeking to differentiate their ammunition through improved ballistic performance, lighter weight, and reduced component costs. To learn more about SST’s licensing opportunities, contact Foss at peter@shellshocktech.com.

About Shell Shock Technologies NAS3 Cases:

NAS3 cases are 50 percent lighter than brass cases, offer greater lubricity, and will not abrade, clog, foul, wear out, or damage breach and ejector mechanisms. The cases offer greater corrosion resistance, tensile strength (2x stronger), and elasticity than brass. NAS3 cases will not split, chip, crack, or grow (stretch), are fully reloadable (using S3 Reload dies), and can be reloaded many more times than brass cases. NAS3 cases have been tested successfully by customers to pressures over 70k psi. NAS3 cases can be picked up with a magnet. The head can be colored for branding purposes and easy load identification.

NAS3 is “Best in Class” for maintaining consistent velocity between rounds. In an independent test performed by H.P. White Laboratory (a major munitions testing facility), rounds fired using NAS3 cases achieved a velocity standard deviation of 0.093 FPS (124-grain FMJ bullet, 4.2 grains Titegroup powder, 10 rounds, extreme variation 3fps).

Posted in Ammo, Press Release | Comments Off on Shell Shock Technologies Signs Licensing Agreement with Phantom Defense for 8.6 BLK Ammunition

Garmin Launches Instinct 3 – Tactical Edition

April 25th, 2025

Push the limits with two sizes, a rucking activity, AMOLED display, metal-reinforced bezel and built-in LED flashlights on all models

OLATHE, Kan./April 24, 2025/ – Garmin (NYSE: GRMN) today announced the Instinct® 3 – Tactical Edition, its newest lineup of tactical smartwatches, now offered with a crisp AMOLED display or solar-powered display for maximum battery life. Designed for any mission, Instinct 3 – Tactical Edition adds a metal-reinforced bezel for extreme durability, rucking activity for training, and built-in LED flashlight on both 45mm and 50mm units for low-light conditions. And with incredible battery life, it’s easy to stay prepared longer; the AMOLED model gets up to 24 days on a single charge in smartwatch mode, while the solar charging models can get unlimited battery life1.

“The Instinct series has proven itself time and again as the ultimate choice for individuals who need an advanced smartwatch they can depend on in any situation. With incredible battery life, an innovative rugged design and dedicated features for your tactical lifestyle, the Instinct 3 – Tactical Edition answers the call and dares to be more.”

–Susan Lyman, Garmin Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing

Rugged yet bold

Featuring bolted construction with a metal-reinforced bezel, fiber-reinforced polymer case and scratch-resistant display, Instinct 3 – Tactical Edition sets a new standard for durability. The lineup is also built to MIL-STD 810 for thermal and shock resistance and is water-rated up to 100 meters. Plus, the built-in flashlight provides variable intensities, a green light to help protect natural night vision, and strobe mode to assist with location signaling in difficult terrain. For night operations, Night Vision Goggle (NVG) mode dims the display to levels functional to the primary user (including those wearing night optic devices) but nearly invisible to anyone else.

Dare for more with these Instinct 3 – Tactical Edition features

– Rucking activity: The dedicated activity profile allows users to input pack weight to better understand the physical exertion associated with rucking. During various activities like trail running, hiking and walking, users can also add their pack weight.

– Ballistic solutions: All Instinct 3 – Tactical Edition units come with Applied Ballistics® solver (unlock fee required) and are compatible with the Applied Ballistics Quantum app.

– Dedicated tactical features: Purpose-built with dedicated features like Stealth Mode, Kill Switch, and Jumpmaster, Instinct 3 – Tactical Edition provides the tools for any mission.

– Two sizes: Available in a 45mm or 50mm solar-powered display and a 50mm AMOLED display.

– Increased solar efficiency: A larger, more efficient solar lens harnesses the power of the sun even better. Compared to Instinct 2 Solar, the new 50mm Instinct 3 – Tactical Edition solar model gets more than five times the battery life in GPS mode when solar charging.

– Multi-band GPS with SatIQ™ technology: Experience superior positioning accuracy while optimizing battery life.

– 24/7 health and wellness monitoring: Track steps, heart rate, advanced sleep monitoring, wrist-based Pulse Ox2, heart rate variability (HRV) status and more3.

– Smart notifications: Receive emails, texts and alerts right on the watch when paired with a compatible Apple® or Android™ smartphone.

Lead the charge

Users can navigate confidently with a 3-axis compass, barometric altimeter and multi-band GPS with SatIQ™ technology, delivering superior positioning while optimizing battery life. Users can also pair their Instinct 3 – Tactical Edition with the Garmin Explore™ App to review more detailed maps, create waypoints and courses and more to stay on course.

In sensitive locations, users can utilize Stealth Mode, which turns off wireless communications but still collects distances traveled and biometric data without recording location data. Leveraging this feature allows the watch to be used – and even upload logged data – while concealing its location, which is typically visible through popular mobile training apps. If security becomes an issue, the watch’s Kill Switch wipes the device of all user memory. Other mission-focused features include a dual-position format, which simultaneously displays two sets of coordinates on a single screen, Jumpmaster, a preloaded tactical activity, and projected waypoints.

Train for the mission

With sports apps like rucking, hiking, running, climbing, hunting, skiing and more, Instinct 3 – Tactical Edition is the ultimate wingman for any training experience. While in-field, TracBack® routing helps provide a route back to the starting point as well as reference points of known spots relative to that location. In addition to built-in sports apps for outdoor adventures, Instinct 3 – Tactical Edition is loaded with apps for activities like HIIT, cardio, indoor and outdoor track running, basketball and more.

Users can prepare for the next race, train for a milestone, or strive to improve overall fitness with Garmin Coach adaptive and prebuilt training plans for running and cycling. View an entire week of daily suggested workouts that adapt after every run or ride or create step-by-step workouts from more than 1,600 exercises in the Garmin Connect™ app, then send them directly to the watch. And track intensity minutes, VO2 max and recovery time to receive guidance on recommended recovery times to reduce fatigue and burnout.

Safety and tracking features include incident detection (during select outdoor activities) and Assistance, which can send a message with the user’s GPS location (if available) to emergency contacts when paired with a smartphone4.

Available to order on Garmin.com on April 30, the Instinct 3 – Tactical Edition AMOLED model has a suggested retail price of $599.99 while the solar charging models start at $499.99.

Engineered on the inside for life on the outside, Garmin products have revolutionized life for adventurers, athletes, off-road explorers, road warriors and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. Committed to developing products that enhance experiences, enrich lives and help provide peace of mind, Garmin believes every day is an opportunity to innovate and a chance to beat yesterday. Visit the Garmin Newsroom, email our media team, connect with @garminoutdoor on social, or follow our blog.

1 Assumes all-day wear, 3 hours per day outside in 50,000 lux conditions.

2 This is not a medical device and is not intended for use in the diagnosis or monitoring of any medical condition; see Garmin.com/ataccuracy. Pulse Ox not available in all countries.

3 Activity tracking accuracy.

4 When paired with a compatible smartphone. For safety and tracking feature requirements and limitations, see Garmin.com/safety.

Posted in Press Release, Watches | Comments Off on Garmin Launches Instinct 3 – Tactical Edition

UNITY Tactical Updates Its Line of FAST Red Dot Mounts with the FAST Micro-SB

April 25th, 2025

New Micro-Footprint Mount Features Fully Adjustable Built-in Back-Up Iron Sights

Broussard, LA—UNITY™ Tactical, a designer of components that integrate tactical systems and optimize the human factor, announced the launch of the FAST™ Micro-SB, its third mount built with a micro footprint. Designed specifically for the Aimpoint® CompM5, CompM5b, and Duty RDS mini red dot sights, the FAST Micro-SB features built-in fully adjustable front and rear back-up iron sights (BUIS).

The Micro-SB positions these taller mini red dot sights at an optical centerline of 2.26 inches and is compatible with UNITY’s entire line of FAST FTC magnifier mounts. While the FAST Micro-SB mount is designed for the same mini red dot sights as the FAST Micro-S, it features back-up iron sights like the FAST Micro. This allows users to take advantage of UNITY’s Flip-to-Center (FTC) mounts without sacrificing the use of back-up iron sights.

The built-in BUIS is a non-standard height that does not allow for compatibility with a traditional front post, so the front post is factory installed. The integrated BUIS are visible under all of UNITY’s FTC mounts.

“The FAST Micro-SB brings increased efficiency, saving space and allowing additional compatibility” said Mike Roth, VP of business development for UNITY Tactical. “For those Aimpoint customers who are required or prefer to run BUIS but want to integrate flip-to-center magnification, the FAST Micro-SB is an ideal solution.”

The mount comes standard with a two cross bolt rail clamp but is also compatible with the FAST QD Lever (sold separately). The FAST Micro-SB is manufactured to the same high standards as all UNITY products, utilizing 7075-T6 aluminum with a Type III hard coat anodized finish. The FAST Micro-SB is available in black and FDE and includes a lifetime warranty. It retails for $205 and is available for purchase now through authorized UNITY dealers and on unitytactical.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Optics, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | Comments Off on UNITY Tactical Updates Its Line of FAST Red Dot Mounts with the FAST Micro-SB

Hill People Gear Unveil New Bookcliff Lumbar Pack

April 25th, 2025

I’ve been following Hill People Fear since they launched 15 years ago. As many of you know, The Hill brothers cut their teeth as wildland firefighters in the Forest Service and consequently, they’ve long been fans of belted lumbar packs. The new Bookcliff is the latest in their lineup, joining the Umlindi and the M2016.

The Bookcliff is sized in between the other two and at 1237ci (dimensional) is the largest lumbar pack that can be effectively carried with just a belt. In keeping with HPG’s modularity, the Bookcliff can be used with the Recon Belt, Prairie Belt, and Shoulder Harness. It is sold with a simple shoulder strap so folks need only purchase the suspension component(s) they want, or use HPG components they already have.

This lumbar pack will appeal to a wide range of users, including wildland firefighters looking for a Berry Compliant commercially produced “jumper pack”, which the Bookcliff is very close to in size. It is designed to accept the fire shelter case for line use.

The Bookcliff is made in the USA out of US materials by FirstSpear, Hill People Gear’s primary manufacturing partner. Zippers are both YKK #10s for longevity and the material is all 500d Cordura. There is an attached rear pocket with a slot pocket behind it and an internal mesh slot pocket. There is a slant style wand pocket on each side large enough to accept a Nalgene silo or any 1qt canteen. Compression straps top, bottom, and sides round out this purpose built pack.

For more information, you can check out the Bookcliff on HPG’s website.

Posted in Guest Post, Packs | Comments Off on Hill People Gear Unveil New Bookcliff Lumbar Pack

FirstSpear Friday Focus: Laserframe Primary Pocket Panel (PPP)

April 25th, 2025

The FIRSTSPEAR LASERFRAME PRIMARY POCKET PANEL is a versatile tactical accessory designed for efficient gear organization and customization.

It features a hooked-back exterior and a loop interior, allowing secure attachment to compatible carriers. This design ensures stability while providing flexibility for various loadout configurations.

The PPP can be worn alone or paired with the Admin Placard or Friction Inserts (M4, G17/19, and G20/21 – sold separately), offering users adaptable carrying options. Its modularity makes it ideal for quickly integrating additional magazines or mission-critical accessories. The durable construction makes it suitable for demanding tactical environments. Its lightweight design minimizes bulk without sacrificing functionality. The Primary Pocket Panel’s hook-and-loop compatibility ensures a secure fit, preventing unwanted movement during use.

With its customizable configuration, the panel offers improved flexibility for both short and long missions. Overall, it is a valuable addition to any tactical loadout, providing convenience and reliability in the field.

FirstSpear is the premier source for cutting edge-tactical gear for military, law enforcement and those who train.

For more information visit First-Spear.com.

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45th Anniversary of Operation Eagle Claw

April 25th, 2025

America woke up on the morning of 25 April, 1980 to hear President Carter announced to a stunned world that overnight our nation had undertaken an ambitious raid into Iran to liberate 52 American hostages held illegally at our Embassy compound in Tehran. The assault force of what was known as “Operation Eagle Claw” can be seen here, loading C141s on their way to an Intermediate Staging Base in preparation for the operation.

Unfortunately, the plan was complicated and the task force was made was made up of forces which hadn’t trained together long. The weather was problematic as well, and as the task force began to organize a withdrawal from Iranian territory after one-too-many helicopter failures, disaster struck.

We lost eight American servicemen in a horrible aircraft ground collision during refueling operations where a hovering SH53 helicopter turned into a C130 full of fuel bladders.

However, their deaths were not in vain. The hostages were eventually repatriated and the accident was the watershed event that created, over the next several decades, the world’s preeminent Special Operations capability; USSOCOM and its components. Forty-five years later, we wouldn’t be where we are without the determination of that fledgling task force.

Join me in remembering those who had the guts to try; legends to a man.

Posted in History, SOF | Comments Off on 45th Anniversary of Operation Eagle Claw

0241 Tactical – Admin & EGA Wings…Officially Unofficial

April 24th, 2025

Available now from 0241 Tactical.

Show your pride in your Marine Corps Intel, Admin, Cyber Security Wings (Also applicable to anyone in S-3) with these beautifully crafted Wings! Featuring the iconic Naval wings design and adorned with the highly coveted laptop of death at the center, these wings are a perfect addition for any Marine with a desire to stand out in a formation!

Key Features:

Durable all-metal construction: Built to last, these wings are strong and stylish.

Weight: Approximately 6 ounces for a sturdy feel.

Dimensions: 2 7/8 inches wide, making them a noticeable addition to any uniform or display.

Versatile use: Perfect for active duty Marines, veterans, supporters, or as a striking display piece.

Whether you’re looking to add extra swagger to your service or impress a civilian, or just want a gift for your Marine, stop searching for the perfect gift you found it these wings will elevate any memorabilia collection. Wear them with pride and let your spirit shine!

www.0241Tactical.com

Posted in Morale, USMC | Comments Off on 0241 Tactical – Admin & EGA Wings…Officially Unofficial

Two New Flavors from Mountain House

April 24th, 2025

Mountain House had introduced two new menu items in their line of freeze dried foods: Cheesy Beef Enchilada Bowl and Korean Inspired Beef with Rice and Vegetables.

A recent press release gives this description:

The Cheesy Beef Enchilada Bowl delivers the soul-satisfying taste of a classic enchilada in a convenient, just-add-water pouch. Made with real corn tortillas, seasoned beef, fluffy long-grain rice, black beans, and smothered with melted cheese and a smoky, spicy red enchilada sauce, this meal provides 32g of protein and 660 calories per pouch to fuel even the most demanding expeditions. Made without artificial flavors or preservatives, this freeze-dried enchilada offers the authentic taste of your favorite taqueria in a convenient, trail-ready form.

The Korean Inspired Beef with Rice and Vegetable entrée is a bold and savory meal option featuring tender cuts of beef, crunchy zucchini and carrots, and perfectly textured basmati rice, all simmered in a sweet and savory Bulgogi sauce with a touch of heat. Infused with fragrant ginger and garlic, plus a little depth from soy sauce and toasted sesame seeds, this meal delivers a delicious balance of umami flavors. With 22g of protein and 580 calories per pouch, it delivers a satisfying, home-cooked taste, offering comfort after a long day outdoors or a sense of normalcy in an emergency.

Both the Cheesy Beef Enchilada Bowl and Korean Inspired Beef are now available in two-serving pouches with an MSRP of $11.99, expanding Mountain House’s offerings to 29 flavorful meals. Find them online at www.mountainhouse.com or in select specialty retailers and REI this June.

Posted in Field Gourmet | Comments Off on Two New Flavors from Mountain House