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Odyssey 2023 Part 2 – Primary Arms Optics Releases Two New Rifle Scopes and Classic Red Dot

July 31st, 2023

HOUSTON, TEXAS—Primary Arms Optics has released three new optics as part of Odyssey 2023 Part 2: an FDE PLx® 1-8x24mm FFP Compact Rifle Scope, a 2nd Generation SLx® 3-18x50mm FFP Rifle Scope, and a Classic Series® RD-25 Red Dot.

In January, Primary Arms Optics launched Odyssey 2023 as a grand reveal for their 2023 catalog. Now, Primary Arms Optics is updating Odyssey with a ‘Part 2’, announcing three additional optics now available for purchase!

The first optic announced is the 2nd generation of SLx 3-18x50mm FFP Rifle Scopes, a comprehensive upgrade for one of Primary Arms Optics’ most popular long-range optics. This upgrade includes an optical redesign with enhanced clarity, definition, and performance across the board. The scope also has all-new precision turrets, guaranteeing accurate tracking for precision at extreme distances.

The second optic announced is the FDE variant of their best-selling PLx 1-8x24mm FFP Compact Rifle Scope. Originally released in 2022, the PLx 1-8x24mm FFP Compact Rifle Scope has become a best-selling addition to the premium LPVO market. Measuring under 9.3 inches and 17 ounces, this scope is one of the smallest on the market, yet it offers superior optical performance with a wide field of view. Codenamed ‘Peanut Butter Pickle’, this newest variant of this scope has all the same outstanding features but with a sleek, low-signature FDE finish. This optic is currently available with limited pre-release supply.

Finally, the new Classic Series RD-25 red dot brings the enhanced speed and precision of a 25mm aperture to a new, low price point. Driven by value, the Classic Series RD-25 is rugged, reliable, and comes with its own QD mount, all while remaining affordable to any budget. Like all Primary Arms Optics products, it comes with a leading lifetime warranty and commitment to customer satisfaction.

Combined, all three optics offer new value and functionality for their price point. In addition, Odyssey 2023 Part Two includes information on two new accessory mounts for the MicroPrism series: the MR-12 and MDOM. The MR-12 is a 12 o’clock piggyback reflex mount that integrates directly with the factory MicroPrism mount. The MDOM is an offset micro red dot mount, which replaces the factory mount’s keeper for a lightweight, yet durable canted optic platform. Both accessory mounts are now available for purchase from Primary Arms Optics dealers.

“After the launch of Odyssey 2023 at the beginning of the year, our customers asked for new optics, variants, and accessory options,” says Stephen Morgan, Director of Product Marketing at Primary Arms Optics. “These releases reflect the overwhelming majority of our customer requests. We love building what the people want, and we hope you are as excited about Odyssey Part 2 as we are!”

www.primaryarms.com/primary-arms-new-products

For more information on Primary Arms, visit the company website at www.primaryarms.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Optics, Press Release | Comments Off on Odyssey 2023 Part 2 – Primary Arms Optics Releases Two New Rifle Scopes and Classic Red Dot

Introducing Combat Application Technologies (CAT): A New Era of Innovation and Excellence

July 31st, 2023

CGS Group LLC (CGS), a trailblazing force in the world of small arms and suppressor material innovation, proudly announces the official distribution rights for Law Enforcement (LE) and government sales of Combat Application Technologies (CAT) in the United States. The addition of the CAT brand to CGS, only strengthens CGS’ existing suppressor and small arm offerings, an already combat-proven group of products. CAT itself aims to revolutionize the U.S. market with cutting-edge defense products.

CAT sits within a global research and development group committed to redefining military and defense products through innovation and enhanced product design. CAT was created via product experimentation and prototyping being conducted within the group, whose team has been solely focused on global Special Mission Unit programs. CAT products range from advanced lab engineered synthetic acids for carbon decomposition to suppressors, explosive devices, and weapon systems in multiple calibers.

“We are thrilled to introduce CAT to the U.S. LE and government markets, as CAT is a rare opportunity for these customers to touch technology not originally designed or intended for the commercial market — but instead designed for global direct action military programs. This said, at CGS, we were more excited about the brand aesthetics matching the product innovation, as the CAT brand is quirky, a touch naughty and is a pleasant departure from what other brands are doing in the U.S. market currently, certainly not from companies so technically driven.”, said Mr. Robert West, a Director at CGS.

Mr. West continued, “The R&D group behind CAT were looking at appointing a U.S. partner to provide both manufacturing support and distribution services for LE and government customers in the U.S. as we share the same U.S. Additive Manufacturing partner the group uses globally, it made sense for CGS to offer itself as a reliable partner that understands the US industry. CGS and CAT teams share a common understanding that exceptional products are born from a deep understanding of end user needs. CAT’s R&D team has spent years meticulously designing and refining complex engineered products for global Tier One teams through various defense brands, ensuring that they surpass expectations in terms of quality and functionality. We support their transition to own brand recognition and feel their value proposition matches that of CGS Group.”

CAT retail suppressor models have a variation in mounting design, provided with a standard 1.375×24 threaded hub, offering consumers the ability to use non-factory quick detach (QD) systems. LE and government suppressor models designated – ‘MIL’, are only offered with CAT’s ‘TSF X’ – an in-built 1x16LH QD adapter, or in two direct thread options. CAT will offer a range of muzzle devices all compatible for TSF X QD integration, including a TSF X reducer for converting 1.375×24 to 1x16LH.

“Our team at CGS has poured their hearts and minds into creating first-to-market products over the last eight years that not only meet, but exceed the expectations of our customers. We look forward to assisting CAT in creating its own lasting impact and becoming an integral product line for both U.S. government and civilian defense customers. The market needs to be pushed again, any brand that wishes to redefine a market should be applauded, as it forces the rest of us to evolve or perish.

Having a global R&D developer enter with their own established U.S. ex-SMU personnel and engineering teams will hopefully reduce the branding white noise a lot of defense companies have used to establish themselves, where brand has superseded actual innovation. We are extremely excited to see the U.S. suppressor industry in particular lift from their current standards to the over 106 point technical standard that brands like CAT use on every suppressor.” said Mr. West.

CAT LE and government products will be available through an official CAT website from 14 August 2023, which will include a dedicated LE and government portal. CAT will also be available to the retail market via selected retail partners across the U.S. from 2 October 2023, initially in staggered caliber launches.

Customers can stay connected with the U.S. launch of the brand on social media platforms such as @specterscat on Instagram. CGS will support customer service in the U.S. — offering a limited condition lifetime warranty.

Posted in Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on Introducing Combat Application Technologies (CAT): A New Era of Innovation and Excellence

Guns & Outdoor News Is Live!

July 31st, 2023

The premier episode of our new web-based daily news collaboration with MakeReady.tv, Guns & Outdoor News (and Donuts!) is live!

Posted in Guns & Outdoor News | Comments Off on Guns & Outdoor News Is Live!

Peak Rescue Establishes Elite Mountain Services Team to Provide Specialized Military Mountaineering Training

July 31st, 2023

Casper, Wyoming – Peak Rescue, a renowned leader in rescue training and crisis response, is proud to announce the formation of a new division, Peak Rescue Mountain Guides. This specialized division is dedicated to offering Military Special Operations Units comprehensive mountaineering training. With over a decade of experience in training rescue professionals in mountain rescue, technical rescue, and industry rope access, Peak Rescue continues its commitment to excellence with this new venture.

Led by Industry Experts:

The newly established Peak Rescue Mountain Guides will be spearheaded by a team of industry experts, each holding an impressive array of certifications and experience in their respective domains. Heading the division is Micah Rush, a distinguished rescue tech with credentials encompassing Rope Access, Rope Rescue, Mountain Rescue, ITRA Instructor Confined Space & Rope Level 3, ITRA Registered Assessor, and full International Federation of Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA) certifications.

Working alongside Micah is Joe Thompson, Chief Guide and licensed by the IFMGA – the highest level of professional guiding in the world. Joe’s expertise extends to being a senior instructor for the AMGA, proficient in alpine, rock, ice, and ski disciplines, and holding two of the highest Avalanche Forecasting certifications in the US with the American Institute of Avalanche Research and Education and the American Avalanche Institute.

Additionally, Cody Carroll, former Force Reconnaissance Officer and Mountain Leader, assumes the role of Military Program Director, bringing over 23 years of military experience, specializing in military mountaineering, special insertion and extraction techniques in mountainous terrain, and tactical application of mountaineering.

The medical director position is held by Alan Oram of Mountain Medicine LLC, a board-certified physician specializing in Emergency Medicine and internationally licensed by the IFMGA.

Expert Instructor Staff:

The instructor staff at Peak Rescue Mountain Guides comprises fully certified IFMGA mountain guides, including Mike Abbey (Former Force Recon and current IFMGA certified, AMGA Rock, Alpine, and Ice Instructor), Matt Hartman (IFMGA certified, and AMGA Instructor), Karsten Delap (IFMGA Certified), and current Special Operations Mountain Warfare Specialists. With their extensive experience in training military personnel in mountaineering skills, the team is poised to deliver tailored programs to meet the specific requirements of military units.

Comprehensive Training Programs:

Peak Rescue Mountain Guides offers a diverse range of training programs, including Basic Summer and Winter Programs, mountain rescue, and medical training, as well as deployable advisors to mitigate risk for DFTs and training missions. By leveraging the expertise of world-class mountain guides and current/former special operations staff, the division equips military units with the knowledge and skills to navigate complex scenarios involving casualties, heavy weapons, and transporting equipment through challenging mountainous terrain, granting commanders access to areas previously considered denied.

Full-Service Solutions:

As a full-service mountain and rough terrain solutions company, Peak Rescue Mountain Guides also provides outfitting of personnel with environmental clothing and specialized equipment. The company will soon announce industry partners to further enhance its capabilities.

For inquiries about the military program, interested parties can reach out to Cody Carroll at codycarroll@peak-rescue.com.

Posted in Mountaineering, Press Release, Training, Veterans | Comments Off on Peak Rescue Establishes Elite Mountain Services Team to Provide Specialized Military Mountaineering Training

US Army Training and Doctrine Command and US Army Forces Command celebrate 50 years

July 31st, 2023

WASHINGTON — This year marks 50 years since the founding of U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command and U.S. Army Forces Command.

“TRADOC today is not exactly like the TRADOC established in 1973, but throughout that time, the command has persevered as an organization and fulfilled its numerous missions — especially training” said Britt McCarley, TRADOC chief historian, who has been with the organization since 1988.

TRADOC and FORSCOM were founded during World War II as one organization known as the Army Ground Forces. When formed in 1942, the Army Ground Forces was the largest training organization ever established in the U.S. with 780,000 troops, which peaked at 12.2 million Soldiers by July 1, 1943.

After several reorganizations, Army Ground Forces finally settled into the two organizations they are today: TRADOC and FORSCOM. TRADOC and FORSCOM’s split 50 years ago came from a need to support two separate missions.

“TRADOC recruits and trains the next generation of Soldiers — develops adaptive leaders, helps modernize the force and shapes the culture of the Army. TRADOC was born out of innovation and that is still our mission today,” said Gen. Gary M. Brito, commanding general, TRADOC. Brito added that TRADOC provides institutional training throughout a Soldier’s career.

“TRADOC is improving our Army’s ability to fight and win large scale combat operations through the conduct of multi-domain operations.”

In addition to recruiting, training and education, TRADOC also establishes standards and drives improvement in the Army wherever it can. Whereas FORSCOM’s mission is to train and prepare the force to be globally responsive to build and sustain readiness for commander requirements.

“For me, the most rewarding part [of working for TRADOC] is the chance to be part of an organization that contributes to the common good of the United States,” McCarley said. “Defense of the nation is fundamental to the life of any country, and the opportunity to contribute to the larger American defense mission is the most rewarding part of my civilian service.”

On average, TRADOC trains more than 750,000 Soldiers and service members every year in its 32 Army training centers.

“I could not be more honored to serve with the dedicated team of civilian and military members, who support our Army mission every day,” Brito said. “But this 50-year anniversary isn’t TRADOC’s alone — it carries added significance to the Army as it is also the anniversary of U.S. Army Forces Command and the all-volunteer force. I look forward to our next 50 years and what the future has in store for our great Army.”

By SFC Michael Reinsch

Posted in Army, Guest Post | 3 Comments »

PrimaLoft Expands Active Insulation Range with Growing Success of Active Evolve

July 30th, 2023

Outdoor and lifestyle apparel brands are turning to PrimaLoft® Active Evolve, an innovative insulating fabric known for breathability, moisture management and stretch, that performs in a wide range of activities, regardless of intensity or season.

PrimaLoft, Inc., a global leader in advanced material technology, is experiencing significant traction and enthusiasm for its Active Evolve insulation. This groundbreaking technology, known for its exceptional breathability, moisture management, and stretch capabilities, has garnered widespread attention and adoption within the outdoor and lifestyle apparel industry. In response to this growing momentum, PrimaLoft is expanding its product offerings by adding four new Active Evolve styles, reaffirming its commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of consumers.

Originally launched in 2018, PrimaLoft Active Evolve is a line of insulating fabrics that is designed to evolve performance, design, and sustainability. Combining the lightweight warmth of insulation with the breathability of fabric, this technology is developed to perform in a wide range of activities, regardless of intensity or season. From pushing yourself during a cross country ski tour, to working up a sweat hiking to the next peak, PrimaLoft Active Evolve keeps you in your comfort zone – even when you’re pushing yourself out of it.

Several products in the Active Evolve line can be used as a next-to-skin fabric. This enables brands to forego liner fabrics, which means heat and moisture are more efficiently managed, breathability is supported, and user comfort is maintained. In addition to achieving optimal performance during aerobic activity, this yields a wider utility and year-round use, all while allowing brands to use less overall material when designing a garment, reducing footprint and waste.

PrimaLoft Active Evolve offers several advantages to designers. It enables them to utilize the full spectrum of color, incorporate unique patterns, and provides greater flexibility in fabric selection. Additionally, Active Evolve eliminates the need for quilting in the design process. Products within the Active Evolve line are made from up to 100% post-consumer recycled content, including three of the four new styles.

“This product series was designed to evolve with you,” states Tara Maurer-Mackay, senior vice president of product strategy at PrimaLoft. “PrimaLoft Active Evolve’s breathability provides a thermoregulating system that maintains comfort and elevates performance year-round for any activity.”

Last winter, Sitka showcased Active Evolve in their Ambient collection of technical hunting apparel. In developing its three Ambient jacket styles for hunters, including both men and women, Sitka designers were challenged with finding an insulation that was durable, packable, and most importantly, adaptable to changing weather conditions and levels of activity.

“SITKA’s Ambient collection featuring PrimaLoft Active Evolve is a product that functions very well across a range of pursuits,” says John Barklow, SITKA’s Senior Product Line Manager. “These pieces are highly breathable during aerobic activity and provide critical warmth once you have slowed your pace. The Ambient jacket and hoody are made to move with you and provide comfort across a variety of temperature ranges and activity levels.”

The endurance sports specialist LÖFFLER will integrate PrimaLoft® Active Evolve in their cross-country skiing collection this winter season. The Austrian brand is known for its high-quality clothing combining responsibility, quality, and innovation. As official clothing partner of the Austrian Nordic Ski Teams, their garments need to function on the highest level.

“PrimaLoft Active is particularly suitable for high-level sports clothing where versatile insulation is required,” said Stefan Gögele, head of product management at LÖFFLER. “This material offers the perfect combination of breathability, moisture transport and thermal performance. At the same time, it is wonderfully compressible and also sustainable using recycled content. This makes it an ideal partner for our cross-country skiing, biking, and ski touring jackets.”

With more than a dozen brand adoptions thus far, PrimaLoft Active Evolve’s adaptability for the user, range of use across activities, and seasonal timing, is quickly making this one of the most versatile products in the PrimaLoft portfolio. In addition to Sitka and Löffler, key partner brands for Fall/Winter 2023-2024 will include CP Company, Eddie Bauer, Endura, Martini Sportswear, OMM, Quiksilver, Ziener and more.

Posted in Materials, Press Release | Comments Off on PrimaLoft Expands Active Insulation Range with Growing Success of Active Evolve

In Memoriam – MG Anthony Potts

July 30th, 2023

We are saddened to report that MG Anthony “Tony” Potts, was the only fatality of a single engine plane crash last week in Havre de Grace, Maryland. Commissioning in the Aviation branch in 1986, general Potts was a Master Army Aviator having flown the AH64 Apache helicopter. During his service in the Acquisition Corps he held several posts including four years as Program Executive Officer Soldier where he oversaw multiple initiatives including the Next Generation Squad Weapons program.

Most recently, MG Potts served as Program Executive Office Command, Control & Communications-Tactical and was planning to retire soon.

General Potts will be greatly missed by his colleagues, friends and family.

May He Rest In Peace.

Posted in Army, Memorial, PEO-Soldier | 1 Comment »

Savage Arms Announces Continued Partnership with the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation

July 30th, 2023

WESTFIELD, Massachusetts – July 27, 2023 – Savage Arms is proud to announce its continued partnership with Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF). Savage supports CSF’s mission to work with public officials to protect and advance hunting, angling, recreational shooting and trapping. Savage reaffirms its status as a Gold partner and plans to donate rifles for various fundraising opportunities as a component of this partnership.

“Savage Arms recognizes the importance of the work CSF is doing on behalf of outdoorsmen, and the outdoors industry itself,” said Beth Shimanski, Director of Marketing at Savage Arms. “They’re a prominent leader in the legislative community when it comes to policy issues related to hunting, shooting and wildlife. We want to recognize and support that – so we’ve decided to double down on our partnership with them.”

“Our partnership with Savage allows the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation to protect, promote, and advance our outdoor sporting mission. They have emphasized the vital importance of giving a voice to hunters and recreational shooters during the legislative process,” said CSF’s President and CEO, Jeff Crane. “Their position as one of the nation’s most storied firearms producers, along with their contributions as a CSF Mission Partner, work well to enhance the effect of policy on the great outdoors. We are grateful for Savage’s support of the critical work we are pursuing at the CSF on behalf of the hunting and shooting community.”

More information on the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation can be found at congressionalsportsmen.org.

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