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Tactical Games Return to Iowa, Hosted by Brownells

July 17th, 2023

GRINNELL, Iowa (July 14, 2023) – The Tactical Games returns to Iowa, with 180 competitors scheduled to compete at the Big Springs Range in Searsboro, Iowa, July 15 and 16. 

Founded in 2018, the Tactical Games combines shooting with active physical fitness — as competitors perform physical challenges including runs, obstacle courses and weightlifting before engaging targets at various distances with rifles and pistols — all under time.

Competitors are organized into different divisions based on experience, age, sex and skill level.

Hosted by Brownells, the July 2023 games marks the second time the Tactical Games has operated a competition in the Hawkeye State, less than a year after the inaugural Iowa edition of the games back in October 2022. 

“We are very happy to be part of the Tactical Games again,” said Brownells CEO Pete Brownell.  “The Tactical Games challenges athletes to be excellent in many different activities from running and lifting, to climbing and shooting.  The intensity is inspiring and the community spirit is awesome. It’s a perfect partnership, and we hope folks come watch these games at Big Springs range this Saturday and Sunday”

Spectators are welcome during the two-day event, and there will be parking available at the Big Springs Shooting Complex located at 4945 IA-146 near Searsboro.

Spectators are strongly encouraged to bring their own eye and ear protection, as there will be ongoing live fire on the various ranges at Big Springs throughout the Tactical Games

To learn more about the Tactical Games, visit the Tactical Games website.

SITKA Gear Introduces Core Merino Wool Collection

July 17th, 2023

New Merino wool base layers create an intuitive, durable three-tiered system for outdoor enthusiasts

The refreshed Merino base layer collection creates a simple, intuitive and easy-to-shop system featuring all of the properties consumers love about wool with the added value of a more durable, longer lasting ArmorSpun wool material.
 

BOZEMAN, MT. (July 17, 2023) – Merino wool base layers have long been relied on for key features like temperature regulation, breathability and odor resistance properties, with one drawback—longevity. Now, SITKA, the leader in high-performance hunting apparel, is introducing its new ArmorSpun Merino Wool that allows for the best of both worlds with materials built for rigorous, extended use while maintaining the properties of wool that outdoor adventurers demand in the field.

The Core Merino Collection features a simple, intuitive and easy-to-shop three-tiered system that allows consumers to easily adapt their comfort level given their day-to-day needs. Unlike other wool products, the easy-care Merino fabric is pre-shrunk and can be washed with other active gear with options in three weights – 120 gram, 220 gram and 330 gram – the SITKA Core Merino Collection offers endless possibilities when worn on their own during warmer early season temperatures or as foundational base layers in colder late season weather.

“Merino wool base layers have long been sought out by outdoor enthusiasts for their exceptional qualities. However, longevity has been a common concern,” said Chris Derrick, Product Manager at SITKA Gear. “With our ArmorSpun Merino Wool, we have bridged the gap, creating materials that improve durability while preserving the properties of wool that are indispensable.”

Core Merino 120 Series
The Core Merino 120 Series, the lightest of the three series, is expertly designed for demanding outdoor activities. Whether worn independently during early season warmth or as a foundational base layer as temperatures drop, the 120 series offers a range of options, including four men’s and two women’s variations, to suit individual preferences.

Men’s Core Merino 120 LS Crew
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Total weight: 6.1 oz.
MSRP: $119

Men’s Core Merino 120 SS Crew
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Total weight: 4.8 oz.
MSRP: $89

Men’s Core Merino 120 Hoody
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Contoured hood for coverage and concealment
• Breathable merino wool mesh facemask for concealment
• Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 8 oz.
MSRP: $169

Men’s Core Merino 120 Bottom
• Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort
• Total weight: 4.7 oz.
MSRP: $119

Women’s Core Merino 120 LS
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 4.4 oz.
MSRP: $119

Women’s Core Merino 120 Bottom
• Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort
• Total weight: 3.5 oz.
MSRP: $119

Core Merino 220 Series
The Core Merino 220 series is built for rigorous use and is the middle of the three weights, making it the most versatile. It’s perfect on its own in mild conditions or as a foundational base layer when the weather gets cold. The 220 series includes three options for men and a half-zip in women’s sizes.

Men’s Core Merino 220 Half-Zip
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 11.1 oz.
MSRP: $199

Men’s Core Merino 220 Bottom
• Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort
• Total weight: 7.8 oz.
MSRP: $129

Men’s Core Merino 220 Boxer
• Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort
• Total weight: 4.6 oz.
MSRP: $60

Women’s Core Merino 220 Half-Zip
• Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 8.5 oz.
MSRP: $199

Core Merino 330 Series
The Core Merino 330 series is built for rigorous use and is the warmest of the three weights. Built with a recycled synthetic interior, the result is an ideal foundational base layer that prevents the clammy and itchy feeling often associated with heavyweight wool.

Men’s Core Merino 330 Half-Zip
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 15 oz.
MSRP: $219

Men’s Core Merino 330 Hoody
• Contoured hood for coverage and concealment
• Low-profile hand warmer pocket
• Breathable merino wool mesh facemask for concealment
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 18.7 oz.
MSRP: $249

Men’s Core Merino 330 Bottom
• Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort
• Total weight: 11.3 oz.
MSRP: $139

Men’s Core Merino 330 Zip-Off Bottom
• ¾-length design eliminates bunching around your boot tops
• Full-length side zips make for easy on/off without removing your boots
• Color coded waistband tabs for correct alignment of side zippers
• Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort
• Total weight: 10.9 oz.
MSRP: $159

Women’s Core Merino 330 Half-Zip
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 12.4 oz.
MSRP: $219

Women’s Core Merino 330 Hoody
• Contoured hood for coverage and concealment
• Low-profile hand warmer pocket
• Breathable merino wool mesh facemask for concealment
• Snag-preventative stitching along sleeves resists abrasion from your pack
• Zippered chest pocket safely stores your valuables
• Low-profile integrated thumb holes for easy layering
• Total weight: 16.8 oz.
MSRP: $249

Women’s Core Merino 330 Legging
• Low-profile flatlock stitching for next-to-skin comfort
• Total weight: 8.8 oz.
MSRP: $139

Merino 330 Glove
• Touch screen compatible Ax® Connect thumb and forefinger
• Total weight: 2.2 oz.
MSRP: $49

Merino 330 Beanie
• Total weight: 1.7 oz.
MSRP: $40
Available: July 17th, 2023

Learn more about SITKA Gear here.

SOFWERX – Broadcast Dissemination Platform Light (BDP-L) Assessment Event

July 17th, 2023

SOFWERX, in collaboration with SOF Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics (SOF AT&L) Tactical Information Systems (TIS), will host an Assessment Event (AE) 21-23 August 2023 to identify solutions for a Broadcast Dissemination Platform Light (BDP-L) that can operate in a land environment conducting Military Information Support Operations (MISO). Configurable capabilities include FM and cellular dissemination and must weigh less than 100 pounds including travel cases.

BDP-L shall be designed to provide broadcast capabilities to support small teams and operational elements and is comprised of a single channel and single band broadcast capability. The BDP-L will be man-portable/man-packable. The white paper should identify what adaptations or modifications to the off-the-shelf system may be required to satisfy all performance attributes. The AE will also consider how much technical risk the proposed adaptations or modifications introduce to the existing off-the-shelf platform.

This assessment solicits white papers to describe off-the-shelf BDP-L systems. The most promising candidates will be invited to virtually demonstrate/present some performance attributes with vendor-provided equipment and operators. 

Interested parties (U.S. Persons Only) must submit NLT 04 August 2023 11:59 PM ET.

events.sofwerx.org/bdp

Recon Boonie Hats Now Available from Carcajou Tactical

July 17th, 2023

During last month’s CANSEC coverage we gave you a sneak peek at Carcajou’s new Recon Boonie Hat. They’re now available. The hat features a short brim, fitted with laser cut mesh leaves for better concealment and netting at the crown to attach additional camouflage material.

They are offered in two sizes and a variety of camouflage patterns, as seen in these images.

Made in Canada. Get yours at carcajoutactical.com/products/recon-boonie-hat.

SeaToSummit – Big River Dry Bag

July 17th, 2023

Offered in 5, 8, 13, 20, 35, and 65 liter sizes, the Big River Dry Bag from SeaToSummit is made from waterproof 420D nylon fabric with double stitched, reinforced, tape sealed seams and incorporates a waterproof non-wicking roll top closure. Additionally, there are multiple lash points.

Colors available are Black, Gold Brown, Surf Blue, and Picante Red.

seatosummit.com/products/the-big-river-dry-bag

Jolly Vihar 23 Enhances US, Hungarian Air Forces Interoperability

July 17th, 2023

PÁPA AIR BASE, Hungary (AFNS) —

The 56th Rescue Squadron and the 56th Rescue Generation Squadron assigned to Aviano Air Base, Italy, are participating in the bilateral training exercise Jolly Vihar 23-2 at Pápa Air Base, Hungary June 26 through July 7.

Exercise Jolly Vihar is aimed to enhance the U.S. and Hungarian forces’ ability to conduct integrated combat search and rescue scenarios and perform maintenance operations. This exercise benefits the 56th RQS and 56th RGS along with NATO ally and partner nations by enhancing interoperability while learning each other’s techniques, strategies and procedures.

“The purpose of exercise Jolly Vihar for the 56th Rescue Squadron is terminal employment,” said U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Kayleigh Jones, 56th RQS special missions aviator instructor. “This is a great time for aircrew to practice factor threat analysis because we never know what squadron or unit we’re going to be working with. The more we integrate, the better we can facilitate personnel recovery across Europe.”

Three U.S. Air Force HH-60G Pave Hawks flew to Pápa Air Base for Jolly Vihar. During the two-week exercise, a large portion of the training was live fire and search and rescue missions. Airman assigned to Aviano AB and Pápa AB act as red cells during the search and rescue missions. Red cells are role players whose purpose is to present problems that the aircrew must solve as a team.

A Norwegian flight medic responds to a survivor during exercise Jolly Vihar at a training range near Pápa Air Base, Hungary, June 28, 2023. Search and rescue missions covered a large portion of exercise Jolly Vihar and role players acted as survivors needing to be recused by the aircrew. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Synsere Howard)

Norwegian forces on each aircraft fulfill the role of a pararescue team. Their job is to help to mitigate threats and safely recover red cells with information relayed to them and the aircrew. According to Jones, working with the Norwegian forces improves cohesion with the knowledge learned from one another. This can also be applied to real-world situations.

“We’re out here working with NATO allies and partner nations such as the Norwegians and the Hungarians,” Jones said. “We’re working on interoperability and learning their techniques and procedures while sharing ours with them.”

According to Jones, there are a lot of moving pieces in an exercise of this magnitude. The mission cannot be accomplished without other agencies, such as maintenance personnel, aviation resource managers, communications technicians and aircrew flight equipment specialists.

“These personnel are essential to making sure this exercise is executed safely and efficiently,” Jones said.

Jolly Vihar aims to advance and support rescue capability in U.S. European Command and NATO. Training with NATO allies and partners in exercises like Jolly Vihar strengthens partnerships, reduces tensions between nations and helps address potential conflicts before they start.

“We’re trying to build this network to increase our partner building capabilities,” Jones said. “We can’t do this alone.”

By Airman Synsere Howard, 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

Luminae Paid To Raid Hoodie

July 16th, 2023

Pretty straight forward, the Luminae Paid to Raid Hoodie is exactly what the name says, a hoodie with a logo.

Get yours at www.luminae.co.uk/Shop/Luminae-Paid-To-Raid-Hoodie.

SilencerCo Moves Up to a Tier 1 Sponsorship Level with ASA

July 16th, 2023

West Valley City, UT – The American Suppressor Association (ASA) is excited to announce that SilencerCo has increased their sponsorship level to Tier 1.  SilencerCo has also partnered with the ASA-Foundation supporting the No State Left Behind Campaign, a first-of-its-kind lawsuit challenging Illinois’ unconstitutional state ban on suppressor ownership

“We are excited to continue supporting the ASA in all of their efforts to fight for pro-suppressor reform,” said SilencerCo VP of Marketing, Mike Aland.

SilencerCo, a company that from its inception has been a category creator and a trend setter.  They ascended from two men in a garage to an industry-leading suppressor and gun parts company continuously striving for greater sound suppression.

“SilencerCo has been a key part of ASA since day one,” said Knox Williams, Executive Director of ASA. “When we formed in 2011, they were one of the three companies that gave us the seed money to incorporate. At every step along the way, SilencerCo has gone above and beyond to help ASA advocate for industry and consumers alike. We are proud to call SilencerCo an ally in our fight for pro-suppressor reform, and we thank them for joining us once again at our top Tier 1 level.”

Join us in the fight to help protect and expand your right to own and use suppressors by becoming an ASA Member at  www.ASAMember.com.