Pirata Series from OTB Boots - Coming March 2026!

StopBox Pro

February 10th, 2026

I ran across StopBox USA at SHOT Show. Founded with the mission of providing rapid access firearm security without reliance on electronics, it is a Spokane Valley, Washington-based manufacturer of innovative firearm safety and security solutions designed for responsible gun owners.

All StopBox products feature a fully mechanical design that requires no batteries, no electronics, and no biometric systems. This ensures consistent performance in any environment and eliminates common failure points found in traditional electronic safes. Every product is proudly Made in the USA using durable, impact-resistant materials.

The flagship product, the StopBox Pro, is a portable firearm retention device that provides secure storage while allowing rapid access when needed. It’s made from high-impact resistant glass-reinforced polycarbonate-ABS which is steel reinforced.

Offered in two sizes, its customizable mechanical combination system offers over 81 possible combinations and is designed to be child-resistant while remaining easy for the owner to operate. The StopBox Pro is commonly used for bedside storage, vehicle storage, and secure access throughout the home.

stopboxusa.com/products/stopbox-pro

Shaw Concepts – ARC Helmet Cover

February 10th, 2026

Coming soon from Shaw Concepts is their ARC Helmet Cover.

The team went over it with me during SHOT Show and it will fit both the USMC issue ECH as well as USSOCOM’s FAST SF from Gentex. They’ve designed it so that it will fit different sized helmets as well.

The ARC Cover will be available in The cover will be available in various camouflage patterns, including MARPAT Woodland, MARPAT Desert, MultiCam, Woodland, MultiCam Tropic, and MultiCam Arid. As you can see from the photos, it’s well laid out for cable routing and accessory attachment.

The BRAIN or Balance, Retention & Anchoring Integrated Node Pouch is available now and seen above in Black. More than just a counterweight pouch, it also offers space for spare batteries

The ARC Helmet Cover is coming soon from Shaw Concepts.

Michigan’s NADWC Designated as National Range for Deep Uncrewed Aerial Systems Training

February 10th, 2026

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s National All-Domain Warfighting Center, or NADWC, was designated by the U.S. Department of War as a National Range for Deep Uncrewed Aerial Systems, or UAS, Training.

“Today’s designation of the NADWC as a national test site shows that Michigan can lead the future of aerospace and continues to play a key role in protecting our national defense,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. “Over the last few years, we held an autonomous drone competition, released a statewide Advanced Air Mobility Initiative and secured a new fighter mission at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. Now, thanks to this new national test site, we are building on that momentum, becoming an even more attractive place for cutting-edge defense and aerospace companies to invest in, create good-paying, high-skill local jobs and grow our economy. You can already see Michigan-made products on roads around the world, and soon, we’ll be in the sky too.”

This designation cements the NADWC as the nation’s premier proving ground for advanced UAS and Counter Uncrewed Aerial Systems, or C-UAS, positioning Michigan at the forefront of America’s defense innovation economy. Selected by the U.S. Army and National Guard Bureau, NADWC offers an unmatched environment for drone development and testing and training, one that is squarely focused on the warfighter and on doing what is best for the force. By combining permissive operating authorities, cutting-edge infrastructure and close ties to Michigan’s world-class technology and manufacturing ecosystem, this designation amplifies our ability to train at speed and scale.

Anchored by nearly 200,000 acres of maneuver space at Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center and more than 17,000 square miles of special-use military airspace at the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, NADWC delivers a level of scale and realism few training environments can match. These Joint National Training Capability–certified sites feature diverse terrain, robust electromagnetic spectrum access and a true four-season climate, allowing units to stress systems, tactics and formations in conditions that replicate multiple theaters of operation and prepare forces for the next fight.

As the largest joint training range east of the Mississippi River and home to the flagship Northern Strike Exercise, NADWC is purpose-built to enhance readiness. Its all-weather, all-domain environment enables warfighters and our allied partners to train together at full operational tempo, integrating uncrewed systems into live-fire, combined arms and advanced swarm operations. The result is a more lethal, more prepared force, better equipped to succeed on the future battlefield.

“This designation is about staying focused on the warfighter and doing what’s best for the force,” said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “The NADWC gives us the scale, airspace and all-domain environment we need to amplify our ability to train and prepare for the next fight. It allows our Soldiers, Airmen, joint partners and allies, to develop, test and employ uncrewed systems at operational tempo under realistic, all-weather conditions. That kind of training directly translates to readiness and ensures our forces are positioned to succeed on the future battlefield. I want to thank Governor Whitmer and Michigan’s congressional delegation for their steadfast support in making this effort possible, which will ensure the men and women of the U.S. military and our allies will be prepared for any future conflict.”

By Michael Kroll, Michigan National Guard

Estonia, Latvia, and Belgium Take Delivery of BLAZE Interceptor Drones from Origin Robotics

February 9th, 2026

Three NATO nations’ armed forces are the first European military to field autonomous interceptor drones amid rising airspace threats.

RIGA, Latvia (February 6, 2026) – Only months after the initial procurement announcements, Riga-based defence technology company Origin Robotics has begun delivering its BLAZE interceptor system to the armed forces of Latvia, Belgium, and Estonia. This handover makes these three countries the first in Europe to field a domestically produced, fully autonomous, warhead-equipped drone interception system. The rapid delivery underscores how agile defence companies like Origin are helping governments respond more quickly to evolving airspace threats.

Across Europe, NATO countries have reported a growing number of unauthorized drone flights near borders, military sites, and critical infrastructure, reflecting the wider spread of low-cost unmanned systems linked to regional security tensions. These incidents have accelerated efforts such as the “drone wall,” a coordinated initiative to strengthen surveillance and counter-UAS capabilities along NATO’s eastern flank, as governments seek faster and more autonomous ways to protect their airspace.

Latvia was the first to announce its order for Origin’s interceptor systems in early October, followed by the Belgium Ministry of Defence, which publicly announced a €50 million allocation for counter-drone systems in November, with Estonia ordering shortly thereafter. As of January 2026, all three nations have begun receiving the first batches of the BLAZE system, with deliveries continuing in several batches over the coming weeks.

The BLAZE system, entirely developed and manufactured by Origin in Latvia, is an autonomous drone interceptor designed to neutralize hostile UAV threats with speed and precision. Designed for NATO interoperability and built for real-world use, BLAZE is the first NATO-codified autonomous interceptor drone equipped with a STANAG-compliant warhead module and available for immediate deployment.

Latvia’s Autonomous Systems Competence Center (ASCC) will be responsible for evaluating the system and determining how the newly acquired capabilities should be integrated into the National Armed Forces. Comparable national evaluation and integration processes are underway in Belgium and Estonia.

Major Modris Kairišs, Head of the Latvian Autonomous Systems Competence Centre: “The rapid deployment of systems like Origin Robotics’ BLAZE is essential to strengthening national air defence. At the same time, hands-on use at scale allows us to build a precise, real-world understanding of their capabilities, limitations, and tactical applications. This ensures new technologies are not only fielded quickly, but also integrated effectively into the armed forces.”

Agris Kipurs, co-founder and CEO of Origin Robotics: “The Baltic states have acted with urgency and foresight in strengthening their aerial defence posture amidst growing threats, and Belgium has shown the same determination. These deliveries prove that rapid procurement cycles are possible when governments work with agile, technology-driven defence companies like Origin. That speed matters when drone technology evolves faster than traditional procurement timelines.”

Unlike traditional defence procurement cycles that can stretch into years, the BLAZE deliveries come within months of contract announcements. The systems are operational and ready for immediate integration, and the delivery will take place over the next weeks in several batches.

Further details of the order, including quantities and operational roles, remain confidential. Additional deliveries to several other European NATO nations are already underway and will be announced in due course. Together, these deployments reflect growing institutional adoption of Origin’s technology across multiple NATO and partner countries.

origin-robotics.com/blaze

NEXTORCH Ultra-Thin Tactical Gloves

February 9th, 2026

Seamless Fingertip Construction for Enhanced Sensitivity and Dexterity

Seattle, WA – (January 30th, 2026) – NEXTORCH North America, the primary U.S. distributor of global manufacturer NEXTORCH Industries, is proud to announce NEXTORCH Ultra-Thin Tactical Gloves designed and engineered for thosewho demand precision, durability and uncompromising control in every environment and situation.

Built with CORDURA® stretch fabric and reinforced with dual-layer palm protection, these gloves are the perfect balance between durability, dexterity, and all-weather protection. The seamless fingertip design eliminates pressure points, while ten-finger touchscreen technology keeps you connected to all your devices and equipment without losing focus. Whether it’s tactical training, patrol duty, or an outdoor activity, these gloves are must-have companions designed to grip, protect, and perform when it matters most.

NEXTORCH Ultra-Thin Tactical Gloves utilize a durable CORDURA® fabric three times stronger than microfiber, making them abrasion-resistant for extended periods of use. Dual-layer reinforced palms with hex-grip texture along with full-palm 3D silicone grip material allows for improved handling and control along with maximum grip. Its breathable construction with moisture-wicking Lycra, perforated microfiber palm, and mesh backing keep hands cool and dry. A convenient terry cloth thumb panel easily wipes away sweat, fog, or optic lens for clear visibility in the field. These state-of-the-art tactical gloves employ a tactical, expansion- ready quick-detach ring and hook-and-loop wrist strap for fast deployment and secure fit. They are wrist light compatible and have direct mounting support for NEXTORCH UT10, UT11, and similar tactical lights freeing hands for all tasks.

Key features:

– All-Weather Performance: resilient design for cycling, shooting, etc.

– Ergonomic Design: tailored fit conforms naturally to your hand

– Ten-Finger Touchscreen Compatibility: conductive fiber ensures effortless device use without removing gloves

– Seamless Fingertip Construction: eliminates bulk, enhancessensitivity and dexterity

– Hourglass Knuckle Stitching: follows natural joint movement for a stronger, steadier grip

– Segmented Finger Backs: move dynamically with your hand for responsive control2024 1099’s

– Elastic Thumb Joint Panel: allows fluid motion when operating flashlights and tactical tools

MSRP: $44.99

Available for Evaluation

Law enforcement, military, and security agencies in the U.S. are invited to participate in the NEXTORCH 30-Day-Free Test & Evaluation Program. To learn more about the T&E program “click here”.

Gentex Corporation, Under Its Ops-Core Brand, Announces Sponsorship of the Alliance Police Training Facility

February 9th, 2026

Carbondale, PA – February 9, 2026 – Gentex Corporation today announced its sponsorship of the Alliance Police Training Facility in Alliance, Ohio, through its Ops-Core® brand, the premier provider of high-performance helmet systems and integrated equipment for law enforcement and military professionals.

With decades of experience as a global leader in personal protection and situational awareness solutions for defense forces, emergency responders and industrial personnel, Gentex’s sponsorship reflects acommitment to supporting law enforcement readiness with the highest performing products and investments that directly enhance officer safety, capability, and mission effectiveness. The Alliance Police Training Facility is widely recognized for delivering some of the most realistic, high-intensity training programs in the country, serving officers, tactical teams, and first responders and prepared civilians nationwide. Located in Alliance, Ohio, the facility has established itself as one of the premier law enforcement training destinations on the East Coast, attracting departments from across the region, including federal law enforcement agencies from major Ohio cities and tactical teams from as far as Tennessee. With a mix of open-enrollment courses and specialized law enforcement training programs, the range serves as a central hub for local, regional, and federal agencies seeking advanced training, making it a natural partner for Gentex’s commitment to supporting officers where real-world training happens.

“Alliance PD Range plays a crucial role in preparing law enforcement officers for real-world challenges,” said Fred Grimm, VP of Commercial Sales Americas. “We’re proud to support their mission and ensure officers have access to the modern protective solutions they rely on in the field.”

As part of the sponsorship, Gentex will work with the facility to integrate its latest Ops-Core helmet systems, modular accessories, and communications-ready platforms into training programs, enhancing safety and providing officers hands-on experience with equipment designed to support them in dynamic operational environments.

“This partnership helps us elevate the training experience we provide,” said Joe Weyer, Training Officer, Alliance Police Training Facility. “Ops-Core is trusted by teams across the country, and Gentex’s support ensures our officers are equipped with the best possible protective technology.”

The sponsorship strengthens Gentex’s longstanding dedication to serving law enforcement communities and reinforces Ops-Core’s position as a leading brand for advanced, mission-configurable headborne protection.

For more information about Ops-Core and its law enforcement solutions, visit www.ops-core.com.

Lynq Launches RavenTalk, Redefining Secure, Infrastructure-Free Communications

February 9th, 2026

Safariland’s SafariMesh™, a next-generation communication device, first product to integrate RavenTalk Technology

Las Vegas, NV, February 6, 2026 — Lynq Networks, a leader in local team communications addressing one of the largest connectivity challenges facing enterprises and governments, today announced the launch of RavenTalk. Built on Lynq’s Raven network stack, RavenTalk delivers secure, long-range, hands-free, decentralized voice and data communications, without base stations, access points or fixed infrastructure.

Lynq also has announced that Safariland’s SafariMesh™, a next-generation communication device that enables dependable team communication in challenging operational conditions, is the first product to integrate RavenTalk technology. Built on Lynq’s decentralized mesh architecture, SafariMesh empowers operators with secure, flexible and resilient connectivity without the need for towers, repeaters or centralized networks.

90% of jobs in the world are performed by non-desk workers who often operate in austere, high-noise environments, where communication is critical across long distances. Examples include public safety officers moving between vehicles and buildings during an active incident, where unreliable or congested radios can degrade situational awareness and slow response times; or construction workers coordinating crews and equipment across a noisy job site, where missed or delayed communication can create safety risks and reduce productivity.

These challenges are part of daily operations across defense, public safety, and industrial and commercial sectors, underscoring a large, underserved market in need of modern communication infrastructure.

“RavenTalk represents a new communications paradigm where you can use the devices you’re already wearing, such as noise canceling headsets, earbuds and smart glasses, to communicate with your colleagues, over a range of multiple football fields,” said Adam Gould, CEO of Lynq Networks. “We’re enabling teams to communicate securely, conversationally and reliably in environments where traditional wireless systems fail, without infrastructure, without subscriptions and without compromise.”

“Lynq has been a strong partner throughout the development of SafariMesh, bringing valuable expertise in decentralized mesh networking to the product. Its RavenTalk technology helped support our goal of delivering a solution that is intuitive to use, adaptable to mission needs and dependable in the field. We see meaningful opportunities to continue building on this work together as we move forward,” said Brad Medine, communications product category director for Safariland.

RavenTalk is a wireless, end-to-end encrypted voice and data solution that instantly forms a self-healing mesh network when devices are powered on. Users can immediately begin talking and sharing data securely, even in dynamic, infrastructure-denied environments. For example, the technology can be embedded into the earcup of a noise-cancelling headset that users are already wearing.

RavenTalk runs on top of DECT NR+, a high-performance, non-cellular 5G standard for Internet of Things (IoT) and industrial applications, enabling long-range, reliable communications in the license-exempt DECT 1.9 GHz band. Providing great performance in the presence of multipath, it offers a private, low-cost, scalable alternative to cellular networks for applications needing high reliability, without SIM cards or carrier subscriptions.

Key features include:

  • End-to-end AES-256 encryption
  • High-quality, low-latency voice communications
  • Push-to-Talk (PTT) and AllTalk full-duplex voice modes
  • Simultaneous voice and data transmission
  • Long-range operation exceeding 1 km, using multi-hop mesh networking
  • Support for 32+ users per network segment
  • Operation in the 1.8 / 1.9 GHz globally-allocated spectrum as well as the 915 MHz ISM band in the United States
  • Low Probability of Intercept / Low Probability of Detection (LPI/LPD) enabled by adaptive power control and low transmit power

RavenTalk is designed for seamless integration into a wide range of communication products, including  headsets, smart helmets, VR goggles, ear buds and PTT units, enabling entirely new opportunities for untethered, person-to-person communications.

Primary use cases include:

Tactical and defense headsets for special operations forces, military air crews, soldiers, and sailors, allowing squads to “cut the cables” while maintaining secure communications on-vehicle, during dismount and throughout the mission.

  • Public safety usage by first responders such as firefighters in a wildfire, where they need to communicate hands-free with their colleagues. Another example is a SWAT team conducting a mission with all team members in communication with each other and with a command center at the street.
  • Ruggedized communication headsets for construction sites, underground mines, airport ground operations, manufacturing plants, oil refineries and other industrial environments where hearing protection and reliable voice comms are essential.
  • RavenTalk is one component of Lynq’s broader Raven platform, which includes:
  • RavenTalk for high-quality, full-duplex voice and audio applications
  • RavenConnect for ultra-reliable, low-latency data communications
  • RavenView, a suite of local and cloud-based applications, offering a single pane of glass for provisioning, monitoring, diagnostics and optimization of Raven-enabled networks and devices

Lynq’s technology has already been deployed in tens of thousands of devices across consumer, enterprise and defense applications, including real-world operational use in military and special warfare environments.

lynqnetworks.com

Snakestaff Systems

February 9th, 2026

The Cantable Mag Carrier (CMC) is a soft-sided, standalone, low-visibility IWB magazine carrier designed for everyday carry.

It offers multiple points of adjustment, allowing the user to fine-tune ride height and cant for an ergonomic spare-mag placement anywhere along the belt line.

The mounting interface accepts a variety of popular EDC belt clips, including Discreet Carry Concepts and Ulticlip.

Compatible with most slimline and double-stack magazines, the CMC delivers a comfortable, discreet solution for carrying a spare reload.

The Cantable Mag Carrier by Snakestaff Systems is coming soon.