GORE-TEX Professional

Together, We Save Lives: Safariland Hosts SAVES CLUB Event to Honor Injured Officers

April 13th, 2024

JACKSONVILLE, Florida – Safariland®, a brand of The Safariland Group®, a leading global provider of safety products designed for the public safety, military, professional and outdoor markets and one of Cadre Holdings, Inc.’s (NYSE: CDRE) (“Cadre”) key brands, is proud to host its annual SAVES CLUB® Presentation on April 11, 2024, at its Jacksonville headquarters. The Safariland SAVES CLUB recognizes and honors officers who endured a life-threatening incident while in the line of duty, in which their Safariland Group armor or gear played a crucial role in saving their lives.

“The event serves as a platform to celebrate the bravery and resilience of the remarkable 2,193 SAVES members. We are excited to welcome three officers to share their inspiring SAVES stories,” said Brad Williams, president of Safariland. “These officers have not only survived life-threatening situations but have also become advocates for the law enforcement community. They are living proof of Safariland’s creed: Together, We Save Lives.”

Safariland will proudly host Officer Genevieve Bone, SAVES #2186, from the Memphis Police Department. On September 3, 2023, Officer Bone responded to an armed party disturbance at a convenience store. Despite facing a suspect armed with guns, knives, and a hand grenade, Officer Bone fearlessly confronted the assailant. She sustained three strikes to her chest with a fixed-blade knife. Thanks to her Safariland XT03 level II armor, Officer Bone’s life was spared, and she successfully apprehended the suspect, who has since been charged with attempted second-degree murder.

Officer Derek Williams from the Dallas Police Department, SAVES #2185, will also be honored. On September 14, 2023, Officer Williams and his partner witnessed a suspect commit a homicide. During the pursuit, the assailant opened fire with a .9mm handgun, hitting Officer Williams in the lower right abdominal area. Fortunately, his Safariland SX02 Level IIIA armor stopped the round. The Dallas SWAT team later apprehended the assailant, and Officer Williams has since returned to full duty.

The third honored SAVES member is Narcotics Detective Sean Stumpf from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, SAVES #2168. On January 2, 2023, Detective Stumpf and his partner engaged in a high-stakes pursuit of a suspect who had taken the life of the Chief of Police of a local agency earlier that day and injured another officer. During the pursuit, the suspect opened fire with a fully automatic 9mm Glock, hitting Detective Stumpf in the arm and center of his chest. His Safariland SM02 Level II armor protected his chest, and he was able to return fire alongside his partner, ultimately ending the threat. After undergoing surgery on his arm, Detective Stumpf made a full recovery and is back on active duty.

Safariland is honored to recognize these brave officers and their unwavering commitment to protecting their communities. The SAVES CLUB event will serve as a testament to Safariland’s commitment to providing high-quality protective equipment to the law enforcement community and reaffirm their dedication to prioritizing officer safety.

Safariland continues to innovate and provide solutions that enhance the performance and effectiveness of those who rely on safety equipment for optimal protection. To learn more, visit Safariland.com.

Revolutionizing Helmet Protection: Send Nods Introduces AirPads, an Innovative Ballistic Helmet Pad System

April 13th, 2024

Send Nods Nightvision a pioneering leader in defense industry innovation, proudly announces the launch of AirPads, a groundbreaking ballistic helmet pad system engineered to set new standards in head protection technology.

Inspired by the advanced 3D printed padding utilized in American sports helmets, entrepreneur Tim Pausch recognized an opportunity to adapt this cutting-edge technology for combat helmets. After a year of meticulous development, Send Gear Group unveils AirPads, a revolutionary solution designed to address the unique challenges faced by military and law enforcement personnel.

The AirPads system consists of nine individual lattice pads meticulously crafted using additive manufacturing technology. Unlike traditional foam pads, AirPads are engineered to withstand and dissipate the diverse forces encountered in combat scenarios. This innovative design ensures optimal shock absorption, stability, and comfort, even under the most demanding conditions.

“We started developing it and it took about a year to perfect because ballistic and bump trauma is completely different from sports impact,” says Tim Pausch, founder of Send Gear Group. “So our lattice structure padding needed to withstand and dissipate other types of forces.”

Tested rigorously to meet the highest industry standards, AirPads have undergone extensive trials based on VPAM 6, 7, and 9, as well as the NIJ test Protocol . The results speak for themselves – AirPads not only reduce back face deformation but also minimize trauma to the head to nearly zero. Field tests conducted with professionals ranging from police officers to special forces personnel have demonstrated the unparalleled effectiveness of AirPads in real-world scenarios.

Central to the success of AirPads is the innovative Carbon Digital Light Synthesis (DLS) process utilized in their manufacturing. This advanced additive manufacturing technique enables the creation of intricate lattice structures that are impossible to achieve through traditional manufacturing methods. Coupled with proprietary materials such as EPU43, AirPads offer unmatched performance and durability, surpassing conventional foam padding in both technical specifications and comfort.

“The Additive Manufacturing Process DLS from Carbon allows us to create unique lattice structures that are not possible to manufacture in any other way,” explains Pausch. “The 2 component materials of Carbon use special mechanics and specifications which are not comparable to any other 3D print materials on the market.”

Designed to accommodate different head shapes and sizes while adapting to various mission requirements, AirPads represent a paradigm shift in helmet protection technology. With unmatched shock absorption, superior comfort, and temperature regulation, AirPads ensure comprehensive protection for those on the front lines of modern warfare.

For more information about AirPads and Send Nods Nightvision innovative defense solutions, visit www.send-nods.com

Harnessing Hybrid Vehicles for Superior US Army Operations

April 13th, 2024

ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. — In February 2024, the Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office demonstrated the operational advantages of hybridization to several distinguished guests. The demonstration centered on highlighting the vehicle’s impressive features, which include an extended silent watch, silent mobility, increased on-board power generation and off-board power export.

The RCCTO’s Tactical Hybrid Electric Vehicle program demonstrates the operational effectiveness and automotive performance of standard tactical vehicles while validating the operational benefits of hybridization. Integrating hybrid electric technology will enable the vehicles to operate silently at greater range and more available power for weapon systems and power grids on and off the vehicle. All of these remarkable features provide greater capabilities for our Soldiers.

“The work that the government team and the DoD contractors have completed is a game changer for the Soldiers in the field. We have added silent mobility capability, exportable power, and increased the vehicle range with batteries while reducing heat signature and sound,” said Michael E. Foster, Sr., Director of the Rapid Acquisition Prototyping Project Office within the RCCTO.

“Today’s demonstration underscores the importance of continuing to invest in and develop these technologies. By evaluating innovations, bridging gaps, and collaborating with industry, we strengthen our ability to provide the best tools and resources for our Soldiers, enhancing their safety and capabilities on the frontlines,” said Lt. Gen. Robert A. Rasch, Jr., Director of the Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office.

The ongoing prototyping efforts for the Stryker and High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicle continue to give Soldiers the opportunity to validate hybrid electric technologies in operational environments. These vehicles are being tested in real-world military settings to assess their performance and efficiency, ultimately shaping the future of hybrid electric vehicles in military applications.

By Venetia Gonzales

British Army Signs New Contract for Saab Instrumented Live Training Capability

April 12th, 2024

Saab has signed an initial three-year contract with the UK Ministry of Defence, for the provision of support to Live Simulation systems with ILT-D (Instrumented Live Training), valued at £60M and options to extend until 2030.

The ILT-D contract, replaces the previous DFWES (Direct Fire Weapon Effect Simulator) contract. ILT-D supports high fidelity systems that use a blend of laser and geometric pairing technology to simulate direct and indirect fire effects. This data rich capability provides objective feedback which is used to inform the After Action Review (AAR) process and validate training.

The contract includes a significant investment in extending the life of the capability to provide the UK MoD with the most modern system available. This ensures it remains relevant to the British Army’s evolving training needs, addresses obsolescence issues, and continues to be interoperable with partner nations through exploitation of the latest generation of Saab hardware and software.

Support will be continued across permanent Collective Training locations in the UK and Germany, as well as at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick, Infantry Battle School in Brecon and the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines.

“As Saab Training and Simulation marks 30 years of collaboration with the British Army, we are delighted that ILT-D is in place to support training for the next epoch. This contract exemplifies our commitment to delivering world leading live simulation capabilities at the point of need, so the UK can conduct training as both a deterrence and reassurance around the globe,” said James Passmore, VP Director of Marketing and Sales, Saab UK.

“Our collaboration with Saab UK builds on the long-standing relationship and represents the dedication DE&S and the British Army have to providing the best training possible for our dedicated soldiers. Ahead of the Collective Training Transformation Programme, ILT-D will ensure that the British Army has access to a training capability that is able to keep pace with the training needs bought about by an increasingly complex strategic context and rapidly evolving character of warfare,” said Simon Pearce, Training and Simulation Systems Portfolio Leader for Defence Equipment & Support, the contracting authority. 

With interoperability and deployability at its core, Saab’s Live Simulation Systems have a growing global user community. The British Army has recently deployed its Saab systems around the world including overseas exercises delivered in Finland, Sweden, Estonia, Kenya, Oman, Jordan, Cyprus and Germany. 

Rampart Announces Exclusive Partnership with Milkor USA in Canada

April 12th, 2024

OTTAWA, ON — Rampart Corp., a leader in providing cutting-edge operational equipment to military and law enforcement agencies across Canada, is proud to announce an exclusive partnership with Milkor USA Inc. (MUSA), a renowned manufacturer in the defense technology sector.

Milkor USA, Inc. is recognized as a pioneering force in the development of launcher technology, dedicated to crafting solutions that address the rigorous demands of military and law enforcement agencies globally. Their unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and the safety of their products has firmly established them as a leader in the defense sector, continually responding to the evolving needs of modern armed forces and law enforcement with high-quality, reliable operational equipment.

This partnership offers Canadian agencies unmatched access and support to Milkor’s innovative defense technologies, including the Less-Lethal Tactical Launcher (LTL). The LTL stands out for its superior quality, safety, and performance, setting a new standard in less-lethal solutions for riot and crowd control, as well as breaching operations. Designed exclusively for less-lethal munitions, it offers operational flexibility and rapid response capabilities, emphasizing Rampart’s commitment to equipping law enforcement with the most effective tools.
This strategic alliance aligns with both Rampart’s and Milkor’s mission to equip military and law enforcement with superior, reliable operational equipment. The collaboration promises to enhance the operational effectiveness and safety of Canadian agencies, offering them access to the best in launcher technology in the world.

Strike Enhanced Grip Module (SEGM) for SIG SAUER P365 FCUs

April 12th, 2024

If you’re a fan of SIG and have been wanting to upgrade your daily carry, you might be interested in one of Strike Industries’ latest product offerings.

Introducing the Strike Enhanced Grip Module (SEGM) for Sig Sauer P365 FCU’s, the first of many grip modules to come from Strike Industries.

This grip module comes with an increased palm swell, an undercut for the middle finger, texturing on all sides of the grip, and a deep scallop cut on both sides of the grip for the shooting hand’s thumb and finger — all to create a fantastic ergonomic experience. It also comes with the Strike Extended Mag Release Button for P365’s pre-installed.

The Strike frame can be made to be compatible with manual safety FCU’s including the CA model. However, removal of material is required and some fitment may be required. Seeking help from a professional gunsmith is highly recommended.

Borrowing from common aftermarket upgrades that gun owners do to Glock frames and other handgun frames, a very small but effective gas pedal area (Dynamic ControlTM) on both sides of the grip with staggered steps that go deeper into the frame come as standard straight from our factory to aid in recoil management.

A flared magwell has also been included for speedy reloads, but does not increase risk of printing for those who intend to conceal carry. There are two picatinny rail slots for users who want to add a weapon light, laser, or other accessory. Compatible weapon lights include the SureFire XSC and Olight Baldr.

In terms of profile, the SEGM is most similar to the size of an Sig P365 X Grip which directly relates to its magazine compatibility as well. The Strike Enhanced Grip for P365’s can take the following mags: P365 X/XL 10/12/15 AND the 17rd magazines.

Holster offerings can be expected from Hilliker Holster as we have partnered with them in creating a custom solution specifically for the SEGM. Pairing with our optics-ready Strike LITESlide for P365 and P365 barrel, users can now have a completely ‘Striked out’ P365.

For more information about the Strike Enhanced Grip Module for P365, visit us at www.strikeindustries.com.

Sneak Peek – TangoDown Launching Updated AR Magazine, the MK3

April 12th, 2024

TangoDown originally designed a magazine for use with the FN SCAR way back in 2009. I will be the first guy to admit that I had completely forgotten about these magazines. The worst thing is, I know I’ve got a few around here somewhere. But there’s a new, completely redesigned magazine coming from TangoDown on 15 April.

Offered in two versions, the MK3 is a 30 round, 5.56mm magazine designed specifically to work with the M855A1 EPR. The two models, MK3 FLT30 and MK3 RND30 differ slightly. The FLT prefix denotes a flat floor while the RND designator is for a round floor which is designed to pull double duty as a monopod.

It features a heat-treated stainless steel spring and anti-tilt follower combined with lubricious material for constant, reliable feeding. Additionally, the follower is ported for cleaning without disassembly. Finally, the body incorporates an ammunition status window.

Compatible with both M4 and M27 magwells, the MK3 magazine is offered in Black and FDE. TangoDown tells me 20 rounders are coming soon.

Here is a video featuring Rick Hogg going over the new MK3.

Coming April 15th from tangodown.com

FirstSpear Friday Focus: NEW Black Multicam and Black Fleece Pullover

April 12th, 2024

– American-made quality ensures durability and longevity

– Ambush material adds a unique and stylish touch

– Fleece provides warmth and comfort

– Henley-style design with buttons for added sophistication

– Versatile for outdoor activities or casual wear

New colorways dropped this week! In addition to our Tiger Stripe fleece pullover, we are now offering black MultiCam ambush up top with black fleece & also a black ambush/black fleece combo.

Get yours today www.first-spear.com/fleece-pullover.