FirstSpear TV

Vertx at EnforceTac 2024

February 23rd, 2024

Vertx is at EnforceTac 2024 in Nuremberg from February 26-28, 2024, to showcase the newly launched Recon Flex and Recon X uniform collection. Make sure to stop by Booth #679 in Hall 7 to check out their latest gear and apparel.

For more information about Vertx and Vertx Pro, please visit their website.

Introducing the Shikari – Series, New Untralight Abseiling and Climbing Gear, Jointly Developed by Edelrid and Lindnerhof

February 23rd, 2024

LENGGRIES, GERMANY (23 February 2024) – Lindnerhof-Taktik will introduce the Shikari – Series, ultralight abseiling and climbing gear, tomorrow.

This updated Series features an ultralight torso mount, consisting of an integrated or a quick-drop Chest Harness in combination with the Shikari Grid Harness, either with Cobra or Triple-Lock closure and optional leg loops. Developed for efficient on-rope operations, allows for quick mounting and detachment while being fully protected and free to move with unobstructed gear access.

Developed in collaboration with Edelrid, a leader in climbing gear, these products were engineered to change the experience of climbing and abseiling in the long term. The design is uncompromisingly focused on safety and comfort, allowing the users to tackle their mission.

The Shikari – Series contains the following products:

• Edelrid SE Shikari Grid with Cobra buckle

• Edelrid SE Shikari Grid with Triple Lock buckle

• Edelrid SE Shikari Grid Leg Loops

• Edelrid SE Quick-Drop (available soon)

• Edelrid SE Integrable

The main focus within the new series is on the Shikari Grid, either with Cobra- or Triple-Lock buckle closure. An ultralight, 2 in 1 Product – for one a warbelt that can be individually equipped with various kind of pouches by means of its MOLLE slots and also has the approval for a sit harness in conjunction with the leg loops.

Another Highlight is the Edelrid SE Quick-Drop, a chest harness, that can be easily attached to any existing plate carrier or protective vest by means of back-to-back Velcro tape, rubber bands or the LHT “Anbindungsschließe”. It offers ultralight and comfortable torso support with wide belay loop for efficient rope movement and fast descent with full protection and unrestricted access to equipment.

Learn more about the latest products from Lindnerhof Taktik today and enjoy the numerous features and the modern design.

Mission First Tactical Introduces New Metal EXD Back Up Sights

February 23rd, 2024

Horsham, PA – (February 26, 2024) – Mission First Tactical (MFT), proudly introduces the new EXD Metal front and rear back up sights offering a simple, effective, alternative if something ever happens to your red dot or illuminated crosshair. MFT EXD sights are an excellent choice for home defenders and competitive shooters.

“Even the toughest optics can break, batteries go dead or even fail,” said David Edelman, Vice President, Mission First Tactical. “MFT’s EXD back up sights are simplified for reliability giving you the added safety and reliability you need when it counts.”

MFT EXD sights are crafted from steel for ruggedness and designed for a minimalistic profile. They tuck perfectly under illuminated aiming devises while maintaining a strong secure backup solution in the event the optics and other accessories fail. The front sight post is adjustable for elevation and threaded for AK pattern posts. Detent and Springs are eliminated, to remove friction points. The reduction in hardware increases the robust nature all while minimizing complexity and failure points.

EXD Front Sight Features:

• Low profile bases – Easier to tuck under optics and forward rail mounted equipment.

• Positive detent in both the up and down positions

• AK 47 pattern front sight post (no spring and detent that create friction points).

• Slim minimalist profile.

• Manual flip up arm.

• All steel CNC construction (No cast parts).

• Nitride coated with corrosion resistant hardware.

• 1913 Picatinny Rail Mounted

• Lifetime Warranty

Retail: $99.99

EXD Rear Sight Features:

• Slim minimalist profile.

• Low profile bases – Easier to tuck under optics and forward rail mounted equipment.

• Positive detent in both the up and down positions.

• Fixed 300 meter zero.

• 02 Rear sight peep size (Fast & easy sight picture).

• Manual flip up arm.

• Adjustable windage with low profile knob.

• All steel CNC construction (No cast parts).

• Nitride coated with corrosion resistant hardware.

• 1913 Picatinny Rail Mounted

• Lifetime Warranty

Retail: $124.99

Revolutionary technology from Carinthia: Loftshell

February 23rd, 2024

The latest achievement from Carinthia’s innovation lab is Loftshell® technology.

Loftshell® stands for ground-breaking moisture management and unbeatable comfort. The Loftshell® series comprises three new models that stand for outstanding comfort and versatility. The premiere of Loftshell® will take place at the beginning of March 2024 at the IWA in Nuremberg.

Loftshell® – innovation and functionality

Loftshell® combines a flexible outer shell with a functional comfort layer. The ultra- light G-LOFT® Climate Lining effectively transports moisture to the outside so that no unpleasant moisture develops on the skin, even during high levels of activity. This innovative material composition guarantees 100% comfort in a wide range of uses and temperatures.

Loftshell® products

The Loftshell® Climate series combines high-quality merino wool, our G-LOFT® Climate Lining and a low-noise outer fabric to ensure efficient moisture transport. This “Every Day Carry” jacket consists of a highly breathable, comfortable 4-way stretch outer material, the G-LOFT® Climate Lining and an extremely comfortable merino wool inner material. This unique combination makes it exceptionally comfortable to wear.

The Loftshell® Climate offers both water and wind-repellent properties without the need for a membrane. Thanks to its wide temperature range, this outdoor jacket offers a wide range of uses. The jacket impresses with its low-noise properties and has four pockets, two inner mesh pockets and an integrated hood. The design is clear and simple.

The Loftshell® Hydro is an innovative, low-noise outdoor jacket. The G-LOFT® Climate Lining absorbs moisture and releases it efficiently to the outside through the membrane, creating a pleasantly dry feeling on the skin. Inside, the Loftshell® Hydro is equipped with G-LOFT® Climate Lining and an extremely thin ultra inner fabric. Its special construction includes an outer fabric with an integrated membrane and fully taped seams – guaranteed waterproof and windproof. The jacket has three pockets and two inner mesh pockets. The Loftshell® Climate is also available as a waistcoat (Loftshell® Climate Vest).

The Carinthia Loftshell® product series will be presented at the IWA in Nuremberg (29 February – 3 March). Pre-orders will be possible from the beginning of May at www.carinthia.eu for all those who want to secure their Loftshell® jacket early enough. The products will be officially available from September.

FirstSpear Friday Focus – Strandhögg v3 Plate Carrier

February 23rd, 2024

The Strandhögg v3 Plate Carrier maximizes 6/12 technology and rapid closure systems provided by the FirstSpear Tubes fasteners for easy donning and doffing. The front panel has an internal zippered admin pocket along with a 4″x9″ loop field for identifiers. Along the bottom of the front panel is a second loop field for Ragnar style pockets & accessories like the FirstSpear Admin Placard and Fight Panel.

The Instant Access Back Panel allows for easier access to adjust your cummerbund. Both the front and back of the carrier features interior facing channels for foam to add comfort and ventilation. These foam inserts can be removed for a more streamlined carrier. The front and back have the ability to hold both soft armor and plates that are the same size and cut as the carrier.

Visit FirstSpear to find American Made kit and accessories, Built For The X.

919th SOW Makes History, Salutes Legendary Air Force Pioneers

February 23rd, 2024

DUKE FIELD, Fla. —  

The 919th Special Operations Wing made history Feb. 3, 2024 demonstrating a new capability on the same airfield some of the Air Force’s most revered aviation pioneers trained more than a half century ago.

Throughout the four-day exercise, the unit integrated non-standard aviation, Remotely Piloted Aircraft and Mission Sustainment Team operations to prepare for future contingencies where the famed Doolittle Raiders trained for their daring one-way mission in the offensive against Japan decades ago.

“This exercise demonstrated the 919th’s ability to employ the functionality of an entire unit and establish an operational air base all while maintaining a very small footprint,” said Col. Jason Grandy, 919th SOW commander. “We developed this training to fit AFSOC’s deployment model which is focused on the competition between rising powers. We did it in a manner that also allowed us to validate a proof of concept for a few of our mission sets.”

As part of the exercise, members from the 919th Special Operations Security Forces Squadron and 919th Special Operations Medical Squadron flew aboard a C-146A Wolfhound aircraft to perform a medical evacuation for critically injured servicemembers at a remote overseas location. After the aircraft landed, members applied life-saving medical care on a simulated battlefield before loading the casualties on stretchers for transport on the C-146 back to a higher level medical facility for treatment and care.

“Our security forces members are elite and have some of the best training to protect not only the lives of aircrew but also those on the battlefield,” said Grandy.

Air Commandos from the 2nd Special Operations Squadron used the venue to continue devising strategies to enhance the capabilities of the MQ-9 Reaper. In this case, they integrated the weapons system into the exercise in ways it has not been used before.

“We are transforming for the future in every aspect of our mission,” said Lt. Col. David Payne, 2nd SOS commander. “Not only did our members accomplish the shortest known runway landing for an MQ-9 via Satellite Launch and Recovery to date, we also provided casualty evacuation overwatch, as well as ammo resupply to ground forces.”

The culture of innovation that lives within the squadron was the catalyst behind an initiative to provide an ammo resupply using an MQ-9 travel pod after completing a short field landing on Eglin Aux Field 1 (Wagner Field).

“I think it’s important to point out that in February 1942, Doolittle and his crew trained for the shortest takeoff in B-25 history (400 feet),” said Payne. “Now 82 years later, we are following in his footsteps landing the MQ-9 on the shortest known field on the same airfield. The achievement required technical order waivers which allowed for a 33 percent decrease in runway required for landing.”

Payne noted the aircraft departed the tarmac at Hurlburt Field, Fla., near a facility named The Richard E. Cole building. Cole was the co-pilot for Doolittle on the lead aircraft for the Doolittle Raiders and the last surviving member of the Raiders before passing away in April 2019 at the age of 103.

The 919th Special Operations Mission Support Group was equally impressive proving they can provide the warfighter with operational flexibility for mission sustainment and generation with a very small footprint.

Mission Sustainment Teams are comprised of highly trained personnel to set up a contingency location for a brief period of time. These specialized teams include a variety of support specialists to offer a base operations capability with skill sets in fuels, communications, security forces and civil engineering among others.

“We provided MST elements at multiple forward locations throughout the exercise enabling airlift and overwatch assets to transit and receive the support needed while they were on the ground,” said Col. Olivia Nelson, 919th SOMSG commander. “This is the first time our Airmen have exercise the deployment of multiple elements of an MST, and we learned many valuable lessons in the process. I’m incredibly proud of their efforts.”

Payne commended the support specialists for enabling his unit’s exercise objectives and concluded by promising to continue pushing the envelope for innovative and transformation.

“We’re not done,” said Payne. “We’ll keep leaning forward and doing things only SOF [Special Operations Forces] can do.”

By LtCol James R. Wilson, 919th Special Operations Wing

New LEMO Product Family Portfolio Simplifies Selection Process

February 22nd, 2024

Ecublens, Switzerland, January 2024 – LEMO, a leading manufacturer of high-performance interconnect solutions, is thrilled to announce the launch of its enhanced product family portfolio aimed at simplifying the selection process for customers.

With a commitment to offering over 90,000 custom solutions tailored to meet specific requirements, LEMO continuously expands its product offerings to meet evolving market demands.

Designed to streamline the presentation of LEMO’s extensive range of solutions, the new product family portfolio highlights core series organized into six distinct families based on shared functionality and specific market applications.

“We used basically two concepts: the first one was really to focus on the series that sell most; the second was to regroup those series that share similar features and that share similar needs in the market” explained Wim Vanheertum, Head of Product Marketing.

The six product families include:

• ORIGINALS: Configurable solutions tailored to individual needs.

• REDEL: Medical preferred solutions designed for reliability and performance.

• OPTIMA: Optimized solutions engineered for efficiency.

• SUPREME: Extreme solutions built to withstand harsh environments.

• SPECIALTIES: Specialized solutions catering to unique requirements.

• CABLE SOLUTIONS: Unique cable solutions offering comprehensive connectivity.

This classification system enables customers to swiftly identify the most suitable series for their applications, ensuring a seamless selection process.

In addition to the product families, LEMO emphasizes its commitment to providing customized and comprehensive connectivity solutions through a range of complementary services.

Embrace the future of connectivity with LEMO, where innovation converges with precision, and customer success remains the top priority.

For more information, please visit our website: Solutions | LEMO Connectors and cables

Maxim Defense Introduces New PDX-SD Calibers

February 22nd, 2024

St. Cloud, Minnesota – (February 20th, 2023) Maxim Defense, premier manufacturer of precision firearms, suppressors, and accessories, is proud to announce the Maxim Defense PDX-SD personal defense weapon with integrated suppressor is now offered in .300BLK and 7.62x39mm chamberings. The PDX-SD embodies performance, convenience, and silence in a single package.

The PDX-SD encapsulates power, convenience, and silence in a remarkably compact package. Born out of significant engineering achievements and meticulous attention to detail, this short 5.5-inch barreled PDW comes chambered in 5.56mm, and now .300BLK, and 7.62x39mm. Specially designed for compactness without sacrificing performance, the PDX-SD sets a new benchmark in the firearm industry. The built-in “soup can” silencer, with its impressive outer diameter of 2.25 inches, significantly reduces noise and gas emissions, making this weapon stealthier and more comfortable to operate.

“The PDX-SD is a testament to Maxim Defense’s knack for innovation and relentless pursuit of perfection,” said David Farrell, Vice President of Sales, Maxim Defense. “The addition of these two popular chambers makes the PDX-SD an exceptional personal defense weapon.”

The PDX-SD is not just a combination of a rifle and a suppressor. Instead, Maxim Defense conceived it as an integrated system where each component works harmoniously. This symbiotic relationship between the rifle and the suppressor allows for efficient maintenance, easy upgrades, and replacements. On the range, the PDX-SD showcases its superiority. It shoots like a high-end competition gun and remains impressively quiet and balanced, thanks to the finely-tuned gas system. With an overall weight of 7.6 pounds, it is designed to provide a comfortable shooting experience, making it an exceptional tool for defense and tactical operations. If you are looking for a compact yet powerful firearm that never compromises on stealth and performance, the PDX-SD is an excellent choice.

Technical Specifications:

Calibers: 5.56 NATO, 7.62×39 and .300BLK

Length: 23.75”

Suppressor Length: 7.4”

PDX-SD Total Weight: 7.6 lbs.

Colors: Black, Arid and Urban Grey

MSRP: $3,695.00

To learn more about the Maxim Defense PDX-SD and Maxim’s complete product offerings, please visit www.maximdefense.com.