The American-made Doubledown Folding Machete has a new NSN 5110-01-716-1515. Folding up to half its size, you can easily stow it in a pack, on a belt, or attached to MOLLE.
Gerber Doubledown Machete Assigned NSN
September 27th, 2024FirstSpear Friday Focus — Skirmisher Bag & Responder Pack
September 27th, 2024This week’s Friday Focus highlights two of FirstSpear’s essential bags.
• Fits 1 AR style take-down rifle
• Holds 3 full sized handguns
• Magazine attachment straps
• Spacious pockets for accessories
• Multiple carrying styles
The Skirmisher Firearms Training Bag facilitates transportation and organization of your firearms and ammunition along with related accessories. Discreet and smartly arranged, this system can hold up to 3 full-sized handguns with or without lights in protected pockets. It will also fit 1 AR style take-down rifle which can be secured with an included retention strap. There is also room for associated training gear such as ear/eye pro, magazines, boxed ammunition, and a top center bin for loose “top up” ammunition.
The Skirmisher also comes with 4 magazine attachment straps to contain magazines. Each strap can hold multiple magazines and secure to the bag with hook and loop. The bag can be transported backpack style, single strap style or carried from a continuous-length webbing handle. Padded in all key areas to protect lights, lasers, and optics, the Skirmisher takes maximum advantage of design and material to provide you with a total training enhancement.
Approximate Dimensions: 25″ X 13″ X 10″
• Full zippered top and sides
• Fixed padded shoulder w/adjustable straps
• Oversized carry handles
• Silver reflective external tape
• Fully customizable main compartment
• Rigid Divider w/full loop field
• Tear out clear window pockets
• Re-enforced Hypalon Bottom
Specifically designed for first responders that require the best option for a customizable emergency equipment pack. The Responder Pack boasts fixed padded shoulders, full external zipper for suitcase style access and a large front 6/12 (Laser Cut) loop field for pocket/accessory expansion. The large main compartment offers a rigid “Center Divider Loop Board” for organizing its large and medium clear-window “Tear-Out” pockets.
Overall Dimensions 17″x12″x8″
Kit Includes
7- Large Clear Window Pockets 6″x11″x2.5″
1- Medium Clear Window Pocket 3.5″x7.5″x2″
1- 1″x8″ Retention Strap
1- Elastic Retention Accessory
1- Divider Board w/Full Loop Field
For more packs & bags, check out www.first-spear.com.
Soldiers Stationed at U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden Shoot for the Schützenschnur
September 27th, 2024
ALTENDIEZ, Germany – At the invitation of the Bundeswehr Landeskommando Hessen (Bundeswehr Hesse State Command), approximately 30 Soldiers stationed at U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden competed at the Bundeswehr Shooting Range in Altendiez, Germany, Sept. 12, to earn the German Schützenschnur.
The German Schützenschnur is a decoration of weapons proficiency for enlisted Soldiers.
The American Soldiers took the opportunity to earn the coveted Schützenschnur badge by participating in a shooting event that consisted of two weapons, firing rounds to qualify on the German armed forces P8 semi-automatic pistol and the standard Bundeswehr rifle, the G36.
“I had so many hands go up and there were more who wanted to go,” said Maj. Brandon McFarlane, Headquarters U.S. Army Europe and Africa G3 Civil Affairs Division, about the Landeskommando invitation. “I’ve done the march portion of the German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge (GAFPB) before. It was tough, but we did it, just like we are going to do the Schützenschnur as the next step towards the GAFPB.”
Staff Sgt. Kasey Griffin from the 66th Military Intelligence battalion spoke about the pride she would feel, from earning the Bundeswehr badge.
“It is a challenge, and to be able to participate in the partnership with the Landeskommando Hessen is an experience I will never forget,” said Griffin.
“I am confident I’ll make it”, said Spc. Mia Shaw, who also serves with the 66th MI. “I am used to handling a pistol, so it should not be a problem to deal with the P8 and shoot some reasonable results.”
Marines often serve in a variety of special capacities, whether protecting our Nation’s embassies abroad or recruiting the next generation of United States Marines. Two Marines, Sgt. Dillon Houk and his teammate, Sgt. Markus Jones, both serving as security guards for the Germany embassy in Frankfurt, also took on the Schützenschnur challenge.
Houk said, “To pull the trigger of the German P8 is different from what I am used to dealing with.”
“The German pistol seems a bit bigger, but sure, I am convinced that we will meet this challenge,” Jones added.
Soldiers from the 56th Artillery Command, 2nd Multi-Domain Task Force, U.S. Army Europe and Africa, 2nd Theater Signal Brigade and 102nd Strategic Signal Battalion, 66th Military Intelligence Brigade, 86th Airlift Wing and Marine Embassy Guard competed in the event. At the end of the day 28 of the Soldiers received a medal, three of them gold, 12 silver and 13 bronze.
By Roland Schedel
Kägwerks Joins Codan Limited Family of Companies
September 26th, 2024Kägwerks has announced that they have been acquired by Codan Limited’s family of companies and will work to integrate in the coming months.
Kägwerks’ president Niko Hughes had this to say regarding the acquisition:
“By partnering with Codan’s world-class manufacturing capabilities and top-tier suppliers, we are positioned to scale our operations, delivering even greater quality, value, and service to support the needs of our customers. This relationship empowers Kägwerks’ to expand our global presence and reach new markets, enhancing our ability to serve customers worldwide. We remain fully committed to providing cutting-edge, radio agnostic dismounted soldier Systems”.
More info here: loom.ly/1Xcf3Gk
ZeroTech Optics Unveils the THRIVE Spotting Scope Embargo
September 26th, 2024Nashville, TN – ZeroTech Optics is proud to announce the release of the THRIVE Spotting Scope (TH206085), a versatile, high-performance tool designed for both hunting and long-distance observation. Built to rival high-end brands at a fraction of the price, the THRIVE Spotting Scope delivers outstanding optical clarity and precision, ensuring that outdoor enthusiasts and hunters experience top-tier performance without breaking the bank.
Superior Features for Enhanced Performance
The THRIVE Spotting Scope is packed with features that make it an invaluable asset for both hunting and observation.Whether you’re checking targets at the rifle range or scanning the horizon for distant wildlife, this scope offers unparalleled optical performance.
Key Features:
20-60x Magnification: This versatile magnification range allows users to seamlessly adjust between wide-angle viewing and detailed long-range observation, making it ideal for hunters needing precision from afar and observers scanning large areas.
85mm Objective Lens: The large objective lens ensures maximum light gathering, providing bright, clear images even in low-light conditions like early morning hunts or overcast observation days. This feature is critical for maintainingvisibility in varying environments.
Combined Prism Type: Engineered for durability and high-quality image output, the combined prism design offers superior resolution and sharpness, critical for detailed observation, whether spotting game or identifying distant objects on a nature hike.
Fully Broadband Multi-Coated (FBMC) Lenses: The FBMC technology enhances light transmission while reducing glare and reflections, ensuring crisp, clear images. This is particularly beneficial for both hunters and observers who rely on high contrast and bright optics for long periods.
Tube Focus System: The smooth and easy-to-adjust focus system offers precise control, enabling users to fine-tune their image clarity quickly. This feature is essential when seconds matter, whether zeroing in on a target or tracking fast-moving wildlife.
Integrated ARCA Compatible Tripod Adapter: This feature allows for secure and direct mounting to ARCA-compatible tripod heads, providing stability and ease of use in the field. Hunters and observers alike will appreciate the ability to set up quickly and securely for extended viewing sessions.
Conventional 1/4×20 Thread: The standard tripod compatibility ensures the spotting scope can be easily used with most tripods, making it accessible for a wide range of users.
IPX5 Waterproof Rating: Built to withstand harsh weather conditions, the IPX5 waterproof rating ensures that the THRIVE Spotting Scope performs reliably, whether in rain, snow, or humid environments, making it a perfect companion for outdoor enthusiasts.
Soft Carry Case/Bag Included: The durable carrying case provides protection during transport, and can be left on while using the scope on a tripod, ensuring your gear remains safe in the field.
Why It’s Perfect for Hunters and Observers
The THRIVE Spotting Scope has been crafted with the needs of both hunters and wildlife observers in mind. The high magnification and superior light transmission capabilities make it easy to track moving targets at long distances, while the durable, weather-resistant design ensures it can withstand the rugged conditions of the wilderness.
For birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, the scope’s clarity and sharpness allows for detailed observation of wildlife from afar, without disturbing the natural environment. Whether you’re a precision shooter at the range or an avid outdoorsmanscanning the landscape, this spotting scope delivers consistent, reliable results.
ShadowTech Launches Two New Products – TH-1.4 Ball Head & DOG Leg NV Mount
September 26th, 2024
TH-1.4 Turtle Head Specs:
• Weight: 15.8 oz
• Load Rating: 35 lbs recoil instrument
• Ball Joint Angle: 32°
• Ball Diameter: 1.4 in.
• Base Diameter: 2.13 in.
• Height: 3.6 in.
• Tripod mount: 3/8-16
• J-Clamp: Picatinny & Arca Swiss
• TAA Compliant, Made in USA
This compact and lightweight ball head incorporates the newly patented J-Clamp system.
J-clamp system
This is a self-adjusting clamp system that can mount to Picatinny or Arca Swiss rail systems. The self-adjusting feature allows for compatibility across many different tripod brands.
The J-Clamp system is also user adjustable. Simply tighten or loosen the internal adjustment screw to add or lessen clamp tension to your specific brand of plates/rails.
stores.hogsaddle.com/th-1-4-turtle-head
The DOG Leg is a modular system that allows the user to take their helmet mounted night vision goggles and position them behind a spotting scope system for magnified IR observation.
Dual Optic Grabbing Leg Mount Specs:
• Folded Length: 8 in.
• Weight: 17.2 oz
• Load Rating: 16 oz
• WNVM Clamp: Wilcox Dovetail
• J-Clamp: Adjustable Picatinny & Arca Swiss
• TAA Compliant, Made in USA
Features:
· Positive attachment of NV device to spotting scope
· Ability to see to the maximum magnification power of spotting scope (IR flood may be needed past 20x)
· Zero pixelation of image due to ocular lens positioning
· Ability to manipulate focus and magnification rings without disrupting optic
· Universally mounts to various brands of spotting scopes and ocular lens sizes
· The J-clamp mounts to both Picatinny and Arca Swiss rails
· Two stage leg locking system for ease of operation
stores.hogsaddle.com/dog-leg-nv-mount
Hog Saddle Products are Made in Kansas City: Machined in-house using American raw materials. The springs are even made in KC. Keeping jobs in the heart of the Midwest. TAA Compliant.
LiquidPiston Begins Testing 10KW Generator Prototype
September 26th, 2024BLOOMFIELD, Conn. — September 23, 2024 —LiquidPiston, Inc., a leading innovator of efficient internal combustion engine technology and hybrid power systems, today announced that it has begun testing its 10kW heavy-fueled generator prototype.
The genset is powered by LiquidPiston’s 25hp heavy-fueled XTS-210 rotary engine, which itself entered its integrated engine testing phase in April 2024.
The company has been awarded over $65 million in Department of Defense (DoD) contracts, including an $8.3 million development contractwith the U.S. Army, in 2023, to develop a lightweight and ultra-portable generator for the military. The 10kW generator prototype now being tested is meant to address DoD priorities for a smaller footprint and increased portability.
“This is an exciting time for the LiquidPiston team as we begin testing the fully integrated generator prototype, which we will continue to refine ahead of delivering it to our DoD customers,” said LiquidPiston co-founder and CEO, Alec Shkolnik. “Our goal is to help address the DoD’s demanding operational energy needs with significantly smaller and lighter portable power generation systems.”
The LiquidPiston 10kW genset is designed specifically to meet the DoD’s portable electric genset specs at approximately one-quarter the size and weight of the U.S. Army’s current Advanced Medium Mobile Power Source (AMMPS) 10kW generator system.
The 10kW system incorporates all components required for reliable and efficient power production in the field, including the XTS-210 rotary engine, a high-performance electric motor/generator, custom power electronics, controls, a thermal management system, a fuel tank, muffling, and military-grade packaging. The generator is designed in the long term to be plug-and-play compatible with today’s AMMPS systems, and it will have similar connectivity and interoperability.
Being smaller and lighter than the DoD’s currently-deployed 5kW and 10kW gensets, and approximately the same size as the currently deployed 3kW genset, LiquidPiston’s 10kW genset could greatly simplify DoD generator procurement and logistics by potentially replacing three products with a single product.
While being developed initially with an eye on military specifications, the base generator technology can be applied commercially in applications operating on heavy fuels including diesel, kerosene, and jet fuel, or can be configured to be multi-fuel capable, compatible with gasoline and gaseous fuels like propane.
The 10kW genset leverages the XTS-210 engine’s patented High Efficiency Hybrid Thermodynamic Cycle™ (HEHC) design, offering several key benefits over current generator technology:
• Lightweight –
Up to 75 percent lighter and smaller than the currently-fielded AMMPS.
• Easy to transport –
Can be man-portable, instead of requiring a truck, trailer, or forklift.
• Space efficient –
Occupies only ~9 cubic feet of space.
• Heavy- and multi- fuel capable –
Designed for jet fuel, the engines have also been operated on gasoline, diesel, propane, and hydrogen.
LiquidPiston’s XTS-210 heavy-fueled rotary engine is the result of significant internal research and development, coupled with more than ten contracts secured with the U.S. Department of Defense and over $20 million awarded in development funding, including a $9 million DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory award for a Compact Efficient Rotary Engine announced in November 2022. The XTS-210 is also being integrated into a hybrid eVTOL UAS for a U.S. Army demonstration that will occur later this year.
LiquidPiston has previously raised over $50M in equity crowdfunding, and is currently running a Reg CF equity crowdfunding campaign which is scheduled to close September 27, 2024.
Barrett Secures First International Government Contract for MRADELR
September 26th, 2024Murfreesboro, TN – Barrett Firearms Manufacturing Inc. has secured its first international government contract for the supply of the MRAD Extreme Long Range (MRADELR) sniper system.
Specific details of the transaction were not disclosed, however, Barrett confirms that the order for the US-allied nation will be fulfilled and delivered within the year, demonstrating the company’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions to international defense organizations.
The MRADELR is a military-proven, extreme long-range system designed to meet the precision demands typically achieved only by custom-built rifles. As part of the renowned MRAD family this rifle features user-changeable barrels and calibers, allowing it to adapt to a range of operational needs. With its innovative technology, precision engineering, and high-quality materials, the MRADELR is the next step forward in extreme long-range marksmanship.
The rifle is available in multiple calibers including .416 Barrett and provides superior performance for target engagement beyond 2000 yards.
Recently recognized as the Ballistic Best Editor’s Select for “Best ELR Rifle,” the MRADELR had its first public showing at the 2023 King of 2 Miles competition where its performance clearly stood out above all other production rifles at ranges out to 3526 yards.
Barrett CEO Bryan James stated, “We are honored to provide these international organizations with the tools they need to secure their defenses and protect their interests. The MRADELR is yet another testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation in the field of long-range precision firearms.”
With this new contract and continued recognition in the industry, Barrett continues to lead the charge in advancing long-range shooting capabilities for both military and civilian markets around the globe.
The company recently announced a significant agreement to upgrade the NATO-allied Norwegian Armed Forces’ existing Barrett Model 82A1 rifle, in service since 1999, to the more advanced model M107A1.
