Congrats to Fly On The Wall! Enjoy your retirement; you’ve earned it!
You Never Know Where They’ll Show Up
September 19th, 2015High Threat Concealment/ADS/SIG Sauer Range Day – SIG Sauer
September 19th, 2015
SIG Sauer was displaying some of their latest firearms, including the P320 striker fired pistol series, the MPX machine pistol, and the MCX carbine, which were available to shoot, which we did.
The MPX was the 9mm SBR variant with the telescoping stock, 8″ barrel, and SIG’s proprietary aluminum handguard. The controls are similar to an AR-15, although it utilizes a short stroke push-rod gas system. The familiarity of the controls makes it easy to adapt to, and it’s an accurate weapon with very little recoil.
The MCX was chambered for .300 BLK and was outfitted with the 9″ barrel and SIG SRD762 silencer, which made it a very quiet gun; with that can, earpro wasn’t really required. The handguard features KeyMod attachment slots, for the attachment of accessories such as a grip or light. Like the MCX, the MCX has AR-15-style controls, and a short stroke gas piston system.
It’s accurate, with very little noticeable recoil. Frankly, it’s a joy to shoot.
The P320 series consists of several sizes of polymer frame, striker fired pistols. All the models at the range day were chambered for 9mm, although chamberings for 357 SIG, .40 S&W, .45ACP are also available, depending on the model. The Sub-Compact model comes with double-stack magazines with a capacity of 12 rounds. The Carry and Medium Full are capable of holding 17 rounds, and the compact can carry 15. They come standard with SIGLITE Night Sights, and the grips are interchangeable.
The Carry was the most comfortable to shoot, although even the Sub-Compact was comfortable despite the smaller frame. The sights were quick to pick up, and the trigger was crisp on each model.
This clear HTC holster was placed among the SIG table; it’s always cool to see non-production demonstration models on display like this.
High Threat Concealment/ADS/SIG Sauer Range Day – LBT Tactical K9 Harness
September 18th, 2015
The Tactical K9 Harness is a harness made for canines in the 75-85 lbs. range. It features heavy duty mesh side walls, a 1000D Cordura spine with Lycra sides, and an additional, optional zip-in sizing panel which allows the harness to fit on larger, 100+ lbs. dogs.
The harness clicks in through 3 Cobra buckles and #10 YYK zipper, and has elastic binding around the shoulder and back for comfort. The harness also features a MOLLE webbing panel for pouches and/or a camera system, two reinforced handles, removable repel straps, and loops for strobes and lights.
The Tactical K9 Harness is available in Black and MultiCam.
High Threat Concealment/ADS/SIG Sauer Range Day – Ballistic Off-Body Bag (BOBB)
September 18th, 2015
The Ballistic Off-Body Bag or BOBB is a Progressive F.O.R.C.E. Concepts design for a “purpose-built shoulder bag of discreet non-tactical appearance”. This translates to a satchel-style, non-“tactical looking” bag that allows users to discretely carry a sidearm, accessories, and other equipment in scenarios when wearing concealing clothing would be impractical, such as when in gym clothes or in hot weather, or when not wearing pants with belt loops.
The BOBB quickly opens, revealing a holstered pistol and a large IFF panel, to which users can attach their ID or Credentials. The BOBB features Level IIIA ballistic panels which extends to both segments of the opened bag, offering 6″ x 18″ of armor coverage. The strap system can be adjusted to pull over both shoulders after it is deployed, so the bag, and by extension the armor, covers from the chest to the groin of the user. Behind the holster panel is a gear storage compartment for magazines, accessories, and other equipment.
The BOBB is manufactured by Velocity Systems, and the custom holster is manufactured by High Threat Concealment. It is available in a variety of colors, including Black, Gray, Forest Green, and Navy Blue, with custom colors upon request.
High Threat Concealment/ADS/SIG Sauer Range Day – High Threat Concealment
September 18th, 2015Yesterday, High Threat Concealment, ADS, and SIG Sauer held a range day at C2 Shooting Center. The event was fairly low-key and casual, but we still got to see a few new products while we were there.
HTC Reduced Capacity Blowout Kit
The Reduced Capacity Blowout Kit was born from requests for a lower-profile blowout pouch compared to HTC’s standard Blowout Kit. Coming in at 5.5″ x 5.5″ x 1″ compared to the standard Blowout Kit’s 6.5″ x 3.5″ x 1.5″, it is perfectly sized for a minimalist GSW / IFAK kit.
A couple of additional changes include the removal of the dual top-mounted tourniquet straps, which was replaced with an elastic retention sleeve on the bottom of the pouch, and the new carry strap system, which attaches to the exterior of the pouch, keeping the strap out of the way during carry while still making it easily accessible.
HTC IWB Pistol With Light Holster
HTC has developed an IWB holster for pistols with weapon lights. It features dual adjustable tension screws and an adjustable cant. The model shown to us at the range was for a Glock 19 with an InForce APL, although we were told that they will offer models that accommodate a variety of pistols and mounted lights.
The Holster can also be outfitted with various mounting options, such as the belt clip or IWB loops.
HTC IWB Pistol Magazine Holder
Continuing with the concealed carry theme, we were also shown this IWB Pistol Magazine Holder. It features dual adjustable tension screws, and ‘ambidextrous’ magazine insertion. The model shown was designed for a Glock magazine, although other pistol magazine models will be made available.
Evolution Holster
The Evolution Holster is a multi-function holster that comes as a kit, allowing the user to configure for OWB, IWB, or appendix carry, with or without cant. Below you can see the appendix carry configuration in action. These holsters are going to be issued as part of a recently awarded State Department contract.
FirstSpear Friday Focus – Wind Cheater
September 18th, 2015
For this week’s Friday Focus, we’re taking a look at the long-awaited Wind Cheater. The Wind Cheater is a durable yet breathable lightweight shell made with Duro Ambush with DWR treatment, which provides protection from light precipitation. The Wind Cheater also compresses well for storage, and is flexible, with a longer tail that will keep the wearer’s lower back and seat covered.
The Wind Cheater sports a number of features that benefit the overall functionality of the shell. The articulated hood is sized to fit over a helmet, and includes rear bungee retention, which allows the wearer to adjust it to their optimal size. Both sleeves feature zippered bicep pockets, FS’ low-profile Velcro attachment panels, and adjustable cuffs. Pit zips on either side of the Wind Cheater offer improved airflow and ventilation at the user’s discretion. The Wind Cheater also has two large-sized zippered torso pockets.
If you’re looking for a replacement for your PCU Level 5 jacket, this is it. I’ve had one for a couple of weeks and love it.
Available in Black, Coyote, and Multicam in sizes SM – 2X.
www.first-spear.com – Wind Cheater
DSEI – Milrem UGV Type 1
September 18th, 2015The UGV Type 1 from Eastonian brand Milrem caught my eye due to its apparent versatility. Unlike other Unmanned Ground Systems, the UGV Type 1 prototype takes up space allowing it to accomplish a wider variety of functions.
Featuring a diesel/electric hybrid engine and band tracks, the Type 1 offers a max speed of up to 50 km/h and can negotiate up to a 45 degree rise. The curb weight is 750kg and offers a 700kg payload.
Milrem anticipates that this home Estonian system will fill roles as remote weapon, resupply, anti-armor, fire fighting, logistics, engineer, demining/CIED, comma relay, medevac and reconnaissance as well as CBRNE.
DSEI – Beretta Defense Systems / Steiner
September 18th, 2015The Steiner Intelligent Combat Sight is issued to the Italian Army for use with their ARX-160 assault rifle. But this isn’t a simple carbine optic. This 6 x 40 scope incorporates a laser rangefinder as well as a ballistic calculator into the sight.
It’s simple to use. The shooter simply pushes the remote tape switch to activate an an eyesafe laser which determines distance to the target and the sight calculates an illuminated, trajectory-compensated aiming point based on ammunition ballistics, measured distance, and angle to your target out to 800 meters.
Not only does the ICS feature an integral Mil Std 1913 rail, it also offers a Pic rail at the top for MRDS. You’ll also notice back irons built directly into the sight’s body. Adjustable for windage and up to 120 MOA of elevation.
Waterproof to 10m, the ICS relies on a single CR-123A battery. It’s currently only in use with the Italians but I’d say the two biggest compromises are the fixed 6 power magnification and the relatively big footprint and weight. It’s a significant sight but as a Steiner salesman pointed out, it can be used with 7,62, 5.56, .300 Blackout and .300 Winmag and would be great with a machine gun.
www.steiner-defense.com/combat-sights/intelligent-combat-sight-ics
