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Gerber Sponsors Bicontinental Motorcycle Expedition Led By Army Veterans

August 24th, 2017

PORTLAND, OREGON (August 23rd, 2017) – GERBER, a leading direct supplier of mission-essential knives, tools and equipment to the US Military, is proud to be the primary sponsor of Where the Road Ends – supporting a team of US Army veterans as they embark on a dangerous expedition from the artic-circle to the southern-most tip of South America on custom-built motorcycles. The journey will last the better part of 3 months and take the team through the infamous Darien Gap, a 100 mile stretch of untamed jungle between Panama and Colombia.

Four Army vets. Four motorcycles. Fourteen countries. One impassible jungle.

[ From left: Wayne Mitchell, Richard Doering, Mike Eastham, Simon Edwards ]

The team will depart from Deadhorse, Alaska in mid-November where they will brave subzero temperatures and treacherous ice to reach the Darien Gap during January’s dry season, the only time when passage is possible.

The trip will be documented along the way through Gerber’s blog The Range, as well as through Gerber’s social feeds (Facebook & Instagram), and culminate in a full-length documentary produced post-expedition.

Gerber’s contributions to the expedition include cash to support planning, reconnaissance, operations, provisions and fuel as well as a variety of mission-essential gear including Machetes, Multitools, Knives and Equipment. Additionally, Gerber has donated its famed ‘Black Boar’ Ford Quad Conversion Van that previously traveled the country in 2012 on the ‘American Expedition’. The ‘Black Boar’ will act as a chase vehicle for portions of the trip supporting video production, carrying mechanical supplies and acting as an emergency aid station.

“Wayne and team are a determined group of professionals with a thirst for adventure.” said Andrew Gritzbaugh, Vice President of Marketing at Gerber. “They represent the unwavering spirit of the American Veteran, and we are thrilled with the opportunity to provide support for their ambitious journey.”

Follow the Journey here: http://blog.gerbergear.com/challenges/where-the-road-ends/

Meet the crew and see their vehicles at these upcoming Media Dates:

August 26-31 Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah Bonneville Speed Week,

September 21-24 Columbus, OH – AIM Expo Booth #1459, Columbus Ohio

November 4 Anchorage, AK – 2017 Kick Off Party & LSF Fundraising Dinner

About WTRE: A team of U.S. military veterans will ride motorcycles from the Arctic-Circle to the tip of South America, crossing the infamous Darien Gap in the process. The team will overcome subzero temperatures, sweltering heat, and miles of untamed jungle to complete an expedition which can only be considered an ultimate test of will. For more information visit www.wheretheroadendsmoto.com

About Gerber: Gerber is a leading global supplier of activity-specific knives, multi-tools, and problem-solving gear. Built on the pillars of craftsmanship, innovation, and an unrelenting commitment to quality and service to others, the trusted brand features a diverse portfolio of equipment for recreational and professional end users. For more information visit www.gerbergear.com

Tags: Gerber, Gerber Gear, Where The Road Ends
Posted in Advertiser, Charity, Press Release | 4 Comments »

You Never Know Where They’ll Show Up

August 24th, 2017

Built in 1907, the Jägerkaserne in Kassel was home of the Infanterieregiment 167. During the Cold War, some formations of the Panzergrenadierdivision 2 were based there.

Horrido, JP

Posted in KCRF | Comments Off on You Never Know Where They’ll Show Up

T-Worx Forms Tactical Advisory Group to Optimize Deployment of its I-rail Platform

August 23rd, 2017

Industry Leader Brings Former Snipers, Special Operators Together to Drive Innovation for “Next Gen” Rail System

Ashburn, VA—Today, T-WORX, a global leader in the development of firearms technology, announced the formation of a Tactical Advisory Group (TAG) which will bring together veterans from the Naval Special Warfare, Army Special Operations and Marine Scout/Sniper communities to provide hands-on expertise in the deployment of its Intelligent Rail® (I-Rail®) platform. The I-Rail® is a patented platform technology that powers, connects, and communicates data from rifles and accessories to command centers on and off the battlefield. To view the bios of the members of the TAG click here.

“We are thrilled to bring together such an impressive group of experts from across our military’s special operations and sniper communities to assist us in putting our groundbreaking I-Rail® platform in the hands of military and recreational shooters around the world,” said Don McLaughlin, Vice-President of T-Worx. “The three men who make up our original group bring over 70 years of applied shooting and combat experience—I am confident that their feedback in using the I-Rail® platform will be invaluable as we make final preparations to bring it to the marketplace.”

The discrete data broadcast from the I-Rail® platform feeds analytics on ground troop movement, their actions and events, and enables high-resolution video streamed in real time. Now a NATO standard, the I-Rail® represents the next frontier for rifle platforms in both military and recreational settings.
“The game changing aspects of the I-Rail® platform are compelling, particularly for those who may be deployed at the tactical edge and for enhancing combat development training,” said 25 year Special Operations Combat veteran and former federal agent, Dave Powers. “The platform offers a dynamic package of power, lethality and connectivity to a wide range of data-driven assets that can win the fight—I look forward to shooting it and working with the team to maximize its impact.”

The Intelligent Rail® technology, also known as the Powered Rail®, has been developed over the last 9 years under the US Army SBIR program and with private equity funding. The core technology is a sealed, ruggedized Printed Circuit Board (PCB) that is inserted in the center of each Mil-Std-1913 Picatinny Rail. The Intelligent Rail® (I-Rail®) PCB is designed to withstand the rigors of combat, rough use, and extreme barrel temperatures, and is submersible to 20 meters. Originally designed to provide a central power source for all weapon-mounted accessories, the I-Rail® also provides the user with accessory command and control from a rail-mounted control module containing 3 user-assignable control buttons. This control module eliminates any tape-switches or cables and allows the user to control all weapon-mounted devices with his off-hand. The I-Rail® provides secure device integration through the data and communications capability embedded within the I-Rail® PCB and accessory connection, providing enhanced Situational Awareness (SA) through its secure on-weapon network, bringing real-time imagery and information into the battlefield common operating picture from the individual and squad level.

For more information go to www.tworx.com.

Tags: T-Worx
Posted in Press Release, Weapon Accessories | 2 Comments »

Scalarworks Launches Aimpoint Pro Quick-Detach Mount

August 23rd, 2017

Easton, PA – August 22, 2017 – Scalarworks is pleased to introduce the Low Drag MountTM for Aimpoint PRO sights; the lightest quick-detach Aimpoint PRO mount in existence.

The LDM/PRO is a lightweight, high-strength, low-profile, quick-detach optic mount for with MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny rails, that is compatible with the Aimpoint PRO, Aimpoint ACO, Aimpoint CompM2, and Aimpoint CompM3, and most other 30mm tube sights.

The Scalarworks LDM/PRO features a user friendly and low-profile 30mm ring. The Scalarworks ring has a precision fitted alloy steel hinge that ensures even pressure around the optic, without requiring the tedious and imprecise setup that traditional rings do. Twin oversize CNC machined shoulder screws provide even tension and act as structural elements, making the entire ring assembly phenomenally rigid.

Like every Scalarworks Low Drag MountTM, the LDM/PRO has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any quick detach mount on the market. It’s tubular monolithic base is CNC machined from ultra high-strength 7075-T6 aluminum, and features our patented recoil-proof thumbscrew with ball detent mechanism. It also has the same precision telescoping clamp as our popular Aimpoint Micro, and Trijicon MRO mounts, which ensures a repeatable zero with each installation.

The LDM/PRO weighs less than 2.45oz (in lower-third height) which is less than half that of Aimpoint’s bundled QRP2 mount. The LDM/PRO is proudly made in the USA, and is available in both Absolute and Lower-Third Co-Witness height variants.

To learn more about the Scalarworks LDM/PRO; please visit scalarworks.com/shop/optic-mounts/ldm-pro

Tags: Scalarworks
Posted in Optics, Press Release, Weapon Accessories | 5 Comments »

SureFire Field Notes – Robert Vogel

August 23rd, 2017

SureFire Field Notes is a multi-segment informational video series with tips and techniques from subject matter experts of all backgrounds. In this episode, Robert Vogel of Vogel Dynamics discusses the benefits of competitive shooting.

Robert Vogel is a professional marksman, competition shooter, and National/World champion. He is the only Law Enforcement Officer ever to win World and National Championships in the Practical Pistol Disciplines of IPSC, IDPA and USPSA.

www.vogeldynamics.com

If you have an idea on a suggested topic, be sure to drop us a line in the comments section!

www.surefire.com

Tags: Robert Vogel, Surefire
Posted in Advertiser, Training | Comments Off on SureFire Field Notes – Robert Vogel

What’s Your Favorite OPFOR Uniform?

August 23rd, 2017

Over the years, the OPFOR (Opposing Forces), units which portray enemy forces, have worn a variety of uniforms. For example, there’s this classic look from the 50s and 60s, when the OPFOR were referred to as Circle Trigon forces.

The modified helmet liners were available to units through their local Training Aids Support Center.

At other times, permanent units at the National Training Center and Joint Readiness Training Center have worn various solid color and camouflague pattern uniforms, based on the types of adversarries they’ve depicted at the time. Below you can see the JRTC uniform.

FORT POLK, LA — The colors of Easy Company are uncased at BRDM Field to activate a forward support company of the 1-509 Infantry. Lt. Col. Matthew Tackett and Command Sgt. Maj. Jason Young perform the solemn duties. Photo by Raymond Barnard, Operations Group, Joint Readiness Training Center. (Photo Credit: Raymond Barnard, Operations Group, Joint Readiness Training Center)

At NTC both Tan and 3-color Desert uniforms have been worn.

Although they wore Black BDUs for many years, currently, the OPFOR in Germany at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center are wearing All Terrain Tiger pattern from Tiger Stripe Products.

Soldiers return fire while conducting a town defense scenario during Saber Junction 17 at the Hohenfels Training Area, Germany, May 15, 2017. Saber Junction 17 is the U.S. Army Europe’s 2nd Cavalry Regiment’s combat training center certification exercise. It includes nearly 4,500 participants from 13 NATO and European partner nations. (US Army photo by SPC Gage Hull)

What uniforms do you remember, and what was your favorite?

Posted in Camo | 43 Comments »

CANSOF Seeks Advanced Special Operations Forces Combat Uniform

August 23rd, 2017

In a solicitation published to Public Works, the Department of National Defence (DND) has issued a requirement for Commercial-Off-The-shelf Advanced Special Operations Forces (SOF) Combat Uniforms (ASCU) to be supplied in accordance with DND specifications.

It is a two stage procurement:

Step I (Initial Contract): each Bidder deemed compliant will be awarded a contract for the supply of a quantity of twenty (20) Shirts and quantity twenty (20) Pants. These Combat Uniforms will be subjected to a User Acceptance performance Evaluation.

Step II (Main Contract): Following the User Acceptance Performance Evaluation result, one contract will be awarded for the Combat Uniforms. The Requisition on contract (ROC) will be for one (1) year with the option to extend for four (4) additional one (1) year period. The Bidder must supply and deliver the Combat uniforms as specified in Individual Requisition on Contract.

The candidate uniforms will be manufactured from No Melt No Drip fabric in the MultiCam print. The uniforms will be trialled by 10 wearers and their technical merit will be evaluated based in these factors:

Although they want samples in MultiCam print, they’ve included a place holder for other colors and patterns in the solicitation.

Have an exterior finish as follows:

a. Printed with the MULTICAM® camouflage pattern; and

b. Other finishes as available including white, black, tan and alternate camouflage patterns;

Another interesting requirement for potential bidders:

Expertise and Proven Design
The Bidder must be an experienced military uniform manufacturer by having been in the business of developing, manufacturing and/or selling military uniforms for a minimum of three (3) years and having sold a minimum of five hundred (500) uniforms to an American, British, Canadian or Australian (ABCA) military force in the last five (5) years.

It will be interesting to see if this solicitation gets CANSOF away from the Peerless manufactured uniforms they are currently using.

Tags: CANSOF
Posted in Clothing, Contracts, International | 6 Comments »

Bill Orr, Founder of GT Distributors and Former President of NAPED, Passes

August 23rd, 2017

New Bern, NC (August 2017) – The National Association of Police Equipment Distributors (NAPED) is sad to announce the passing of one of our industry greats, William J. “Bill” Orr, founder of GT Distributors and a founding member of NAPED.
Bill passed away Aug. 21 at his home in Georgetown, Texas.

He will be buried beside his late wife, Charlotte, at the National Cemetery in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Bill’s passion for firearms and Smith & Wesson® specifically, began in his youth. After his service in the Army and marriage to his college sweetheart, Charlotte, Bill managed an appliance store. On the side he bought and sold guns. In 1966, Bill was granted a Colt® distributorship while still running the appliance store. By 1972, Bill, with the help of Roy Jinks (Smith & Wesson historian), had received a Smith & Wesson Law Enforcement distributorship. He and his wife officially founded GT Distributors, so called because their first building sat on the Georgia and Tennessee state line in Rossville, Georgia.

Since those early years, Bill and Charlotte, and eventually their kids, built the business into one of the largest law enforcement distributors in the country. As a man passionate about collecting firearms, he was also passionate about business and was one of the original five members of NAPED in 1986.

“Bill will be sorely missed by everyone at GT and remembered as a man that was truly interested in everyone and every gun he met. He was an astute businessman and loving family man, who generously gave his time and energy to his employees,” Tim Brown, president of GT Distributors and of the NAPED BOD commented.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Aug. 25 at 12:30 p.m. at the Heritage Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at the Chattanooga National Cemetery. Visit www.heritagebattlefield.com to share condolences with the family and view the memorial tribute.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donations to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (www.michaeljfox.org) or the charity of your choice.

The family will receive friends 5 – 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug 24 at the Heritage Funeral Home.

Tags: Bill Orr, GT Distributors, NAPED
Posted in Memorial, Press Release | Comments Off on Bill Orr, Founder of GT Distributors and Former President of NAPED, Passes