Pirata Series from OTB Boots - Coming March 2026!

MATBOCK – Soteria Belt

April 12th, 2023

Jim Foreman and Sean Matson go into the features of their Soteria belt which includes an inner belt, an outer belt, and a cage. It also is sold with the option to add leg loops. Check out this great video.

The Soteria Belt gives the operator total kit flexibility for any kind of operation or environment. It features an over belt design with a removable stiffened MOLLE cage to mount your gear. The cage allows you to change out your kit in as little as 30 seconds. The lightweight inner belt has an outward-facing loop that secures the outer belt and it can also be used as an everyday belt. The Soteria Belt converts to a sit/climbing harness with the addition of MATBOCK Soteria Leg Loops. The Soteria belt is rated for a dynamic 3600lb load. Available in S, M, L, and XL. The sizing chart is on the website

Features:

– Our cage system is made out of Boltaron – a strong yet flexible material
– The belt is designed to allow the operator to quickly switch mission sets by changing out cages
– Seamlessly becomes a full sit/climbing harness with the attachment of the Soteria Leg Loops
– The inner belt is a lightweight and low-profile belt that can also be used daily as a regular belt

Specs:

Total Belt weight: 15.5oz (439.4 grams)
Total Belt weight with leg loops: 1.75lbs (793.8 grams)
Outer Belt Material: Type 13 Belt Webbing 1 ¾ in
Inner Belt Material: Ghost
Cage Material: Boltaron

For more information check out their product page: www.matbock.com/collections/belts-lanyards/products/soteria-belt or reach out to sales@matbock.com

5.11 Tactical Announces New Skyweight Collection

April 12th, 2023

Designed for lightweight durability and versatility, the collection offers a range of load-bearing solutions and gear
COSTA MESA, Calif. (April 12, 2023) – 5.11 Tactical, the global innovator of Purpose-Built Gear™, today announced a new Skyweight Collection of packs and gear designed for lightweight modularity and custom fitting to offer a full range of load-bearing solutions and products for outdoor adventurers, lightweight enthusiasts and everyday carry.

“Packs and load-bearing gear have always been among our most popular and requested items,” said 5.11’s Vice President, Global Product, Matt Page. “We’ve been working with end-users to build innovative products in those categories for years. Our customers made it clear that they wanted an outdoor gear solution from 5.11 that was lightweight without sacrificing the durability and functionality that 5.11 is known for. We’re excited to introduce the Skyweight Collection a result.”

The Skyweight 36L Pack ($200) and Skyweight 24L Pack ($150) both feature lightweight but durable construction with 330-denier ripstop nylon. Maximum comfort is ensured by padded back panels with built-in airflow channels, load lifters, lumbar pads and padded shoulder harnesses with adjustable sternum straps. Each pack also features a removable load-bearing MOLLE hip belt, hydration sleeve, integrated rain cover, compression straps, external stretch water bottle pockets, gear loops and MOLLE webbing for added storage options. Additionally, the Skyweight 36L includes a front shove-it compartment, a clamshell opening for the main compartment, a secondary compartment and an internal frame for added support.

The Skyweight Utility Chest Pack ($60) and Skyweight Survival Chest Pack ($45) provide lightweight, compact and versatile load-bearing options that can be utilized as waist packs in addition to chest packs. Their unique designs feature removable chest harnesses and rear pass-through ports that allow users to choose either configuration. The harnesses are adjustable and breathable with quick-release systems for easy use and hot pulls for quick access to concealed carry compartments. The 330-denier ripstop nylon construction provides durability. Additional features of the Skyweight Utility Chest Pack include a front zippered pocket, front stretch-woven pocket, bottom webbing loops and gear loops for additional storage. The Skyweight Survival Chest Pack offers an external laminate MOLLE panel for customizable storage options.

Also included in the Collection are the MOLLE Packable Pack ($60) and MOLLE Packable Sling Pack ($50). Designed to take lightweight load bearing to another level, they can be packed into integrated self-pockets and attached to any MOLLE platform for seamless storage when not in use. Both options are constructed with recycled 70-denier nylon ripstop and offer clamshell openings to main compartments, external stretch-woven water bottle pockets when unpacked, external stretch-woven pockets when packed, hydration compatibility, MOLLE strap system and gear loops.

The final offering of the initial Skyweight Collection is the MOLLE Packable Poncho ($85) which offers packable protection from harsh weather in a versatile design that can be worn over a pack or used as a shelter. It’s built with 40-denier ripstop nylon and a waterproof silicone ultra-tensile strength coating in addition to taped seams and an adjustable drawstring hood to provide durability and protection from the elements. The one-size-fits-all design fits over the body and backpacks while corner and edge webbing loops allow it to be tied down for use as a shelter.

To learn more about the Skyweight Collection or to shop its offering, please visit www.511tactical.com/skyweight.

SOF Week – Outdoor Demos

April 12th, 2023

Dock space at SOF Week is now fully booked. Some of the outdoor demos and exhibits will be hands-on, including the ability to get wet.

Visit sofweek.org to register now.

Reserve Command Announces $10K Bonus for Prior-Service Enlisted Airmen

April 12th, 2023

ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. (AFNS) —  

To remain competitive in a tight labor market and retain valuable talent, Air Force Reserve Command is offering a $10,000 incentive bonus to fully-qualified, prior-service enlisted Airmen who sign up to fill open positions and agree to a three-year service commitment.

One of several incentives available to those who join the Air Force Reserve, this particular program opens a wider aperture for recruiters to capture qualified Airmen separating from the active-duty Air Force.

“The Air Force Reserve affiliation incentive is a clear demonstration of how we value those who continue to serve and are ‘ready for more,’” said Brig. Gen. Lisa M. Craig, Air Force Recruiting Service deputy commander. “Ready for more time with family, work-life balance, community involvement, educational goals and connections. At the same time, we get to retain the knowledge and experience of that prior-service Airman.”

Historically, the Air Force Reserve has targeted a recruiting mix of 70% prior-service and 30% non-prior-service members. This incentive bonus aligns with helping to achieve this balance and helping the Reserve meet its annual recruiting goal and overall end-strength.

“This bonus is one of many policies and incentive adjustments to help the Air Force Reserve ensure we can recruit the quality Airmen we need to safeguard our combat readiness,” said Maj. Gen. Ed Thomas, AFRS commander. “The move is also important to encourage our Airmen separating from active service to ‘stay blue’ and continue to use their skills and training for the nation as part of the Reserve.”

As recruiting continues to be a challenge across all services, the Air Force Reserve missed last year’s goal of 8,200 by nearly 2,000 accessions. Providing an incentivized opportunity for fully-qualified enlisted prior-service members or Inactive Ready Reserve members to transition to the Reserve Component is one tool to help close the gap in reaching this year’s goal of 9,300 accessions.

“In order to compete with the private sector and other military services in appealing to and retaining qualified talent, we need to have all available resources at our disposal,” said Col. Ephod Shang, 367th Recruiting Group commander and director of AFRC Recruiting. “The Air Force Reserve is such an attractive option to continue to fulfill one’s desire to serve and maintain some very tangible benefits, all while performing on a part-time basis. I highly encourage individuals separating from the active duty to engage with a recruiter to learn more about what additional benefits and incentives they may qualify for.”

Active-duty and IRR Airmen interested in joining the Reserve should contact a recruiter using the Aim High app, visit AFReserve.com or call 800-257-1212 to learn more about this and many other opportunities to serve in the Air Force Reserve.

By Master Sergeant Bobby Pilch, 367th Recruiting Group, Air Force Reserve Command

Paratore Enterprises, Inc is Proud to Partner with Bug Bite Thing, Maker of the Chemical-Free Insect Bite Relief Suction Tool

April 11th, 2023

West Palm Beach, FL. – April 10, 2023 – Paratore Enterprises, Inc, a consultancy focused on the Defense and Tactical market for U.S. and global companies is pleased to announce its partnership with the global brand, Bug Bite Thing, with its corporate headquarters in Port St. Lucie, Florida. Bug Bite Thing is an easy-to-use, lightweight, chemical-free and reusable suction tool made of medical-grade plastic that instantly alleviates the stinging, itching and swelling caused by insect bites and stings.

Bug Bite Thing is an essential item for any survival, trauma or military kit. Together, Paratore Enterprises and Bug Bite Thing will make the product widely available to law enforcement agencies, the U.S. military and first responders, providing their members with immediate relief from insect bites and stings while performing their professional duties.

Dalia Paratore, Founder and President of Paratore Enterprises says, “We’ve been searching for a product line that delivers exactly what Bug Bite Thing does. The pocket-size, lightweight suction tool can be used continuously as it’s reusable and chemical-free. This product is a must-have for all law enforcement, government agencies and military branches as it provides its members with instant relief from bites and stings when performing their jobs and helping others.”

Kelley Higney, Founder and CEO of Bug Bite Thing says “After providing Bug Bite Thing to the Port St. Lucie Police Department and receiving positive feedback, we recognized a need to equip those who serve our country with our product. With this partnership, members of law enforcement agencies, the U.S. military and first responders nationwide will have access to Bug Bite Thing as an effective first line of defense against insect bites and stings.”

Paratore Enterprises, Inc will be showcasing the product via sales demos, targeted events and its reseller consortium, making the product easy to acquire via government contracting vehicles, such as General Services Administration (GSA) contracts.

Paratore Enterprises, Inc.’s team has over 50 years of experience in providing product, strategy and consulting in government contracting and business management for organizations in the PPE, Defense and Tactical industry, as well as retail and commercial markets. We provide know-how in government contracting vehicles, vendor relations, trade show/event tactics, Dealer of Record implementation, competitive/differentiator analysis, Sales Leadership coaching and development. We enable companies to better target their audiences, improve reach, reduce churn and improve pipeline management. Find out more at:

paratoreenterprises.com

Samson Manufacturing Opens Pre-Order on Bull Barrel Version of their B-TM Folding Stock for the Ruger 10/22 Platform

April 11th, 2023

Keene, New Hampshire – Showcased at SHOT Show 2023 Samson Manufacturing Corp. has released a new version of their B-TM Folding Stock compatible with Ruger® 10/22® heavy barrel configuration. Utilizing original folding stock castings from Ruger®, machined and assembled entirely in Keene, NH you can expect the high level of quality you have come to know with the Samson Manufacturing name.

Key features:

• Designed to accommodate a Ruger®10/22® equipped with a Bull Barrel having a diameter of up to .940″, and minimum length of 9.2″.

• Available in either Stainless or Black

• Dark Stained Walnut stock

• Drop in fit

• Made in NH, USA

Specifications Collapsed (Folding Stock Only):

• Length: 16.75”

• Height: 5.5”

• Width: 3.5”

• Weight: 2.2 lbs.

PRE ORDER your B-TM Bull Barrel Stock here: B-TM Bull Barrel Folding Stock for the Ruger®10/22®

Introducing the S.O.Tech V.I.P.E.R. Flat IFAK Compressed Dual Pull Narrow IFAK For Horizontal Belt or Vertical Vest Carry

April 11th, 2023

A smaller compressed IFAK that can mount vertically between mag pouches, or horizontally on the belt in the lower back – this is the evolution of our V.I.P.E.R. IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit). Originally designed in 2011 as a solution to bulky and in the way IFAKs. Our new V.I.P.E.R. Flat Compressed IFAK is a true ambidextrous IFAK that can be worn on your armor carrier, battle belt and duty belt. Make more room up front and affix the V.I.P.E.R. IFAK to the rear of your armor carrier or battle belt.

The Compressed IFAK accommodates SOF-IFAK medical contents and has ambidextrous deployment. Now compatible with duty and riggers belts, and approximately same height as standard belt for low profile below plate carrier. Compression flaps allow for the IFAK to be shrunk to smallest size and can be inserted into our Delta Omega Mop pouch.

Some shooters prefer a lower back IFAK that is narrow and off the buttocks, rather than flat hanging down. Additionally, an IFAK that can be moved to the side and front for vertical mount would increase mobility, as well as a dangler option. It is now compatible.

sotechtactical.com/collections/featured/products/vfifaka1cmpmc

Redefining Concealed Carry with the All-New FN Reflex

April 11th, 2023

Introducing the FN Reflex Micro Compact 9mm Pistol
(McLean, VA – April 11, 2023) FN America, LLC redefines the micro compact pistol segment with the release of the FN Reflex™ and Reflex MRD 9mm pistols, giving concealed carriers the ability to respond instinctively with speed and control. The FN Reflex sets a new standard in the world of everyday carry with its light and crisp 5-pound single-action-only (SAO) trigger, optics-ready capabilities and cold hammer-forged barrel for enduring accuracy.

The FN Reflex is a slim, one-inch micro compact that puts 27 rounds at the ready with the included 11-round and 15-round magazines. With its advanced ergonomics and stippled frame texture, concealed carriers have unmatched control over recoil in an extremely small pistol. A revolutionary fire control group with an internal hammer produces the best trigger feel in a micro compact pistol. Paired with the cold hammer-forged barrel and factory-milled slide for an MRD, the FN Reflex produces match-grade accuracy from a micro compact pistol that is incredibly easy to shoot and conceal. The pistols are available in both standard and MRD (micro red dot) configurations as well as both black and flat dark earth (FDE) finishes.

“Innovation is at the core of FN’s product development efforts. We aspire to push beyond the status quo to deliver products that provide meaningful improvement over the existing landscape, and we feel we’ve accomplished this with the FN Reflex,” said Mark Cherpes, President and CEO for FN America, LLC. “Our customers now have a firearm they can trust to perform when seconds count, that is backed by a quality promise rooted in our battle-tested heritage.”

To meet the needs of this growing market segment, the FN Reflex features an internal hammer design that delivers an impressive, best-in-class trigger in terms of overall feel and pull weight. Upon handling, customers will immediately notice that the trigger has a consistent take-up to the wall with a crisp break at approximately 5 pounds. Aside from the incredibly smooth trigger, the internal hammer design also allows for reduced slide racking force and the ability to disassemble the pistol without pulling the trigger that make the FN Reflex easy to manipulate and safe to maintain. Lastly, multiple redundant safeties within the fire control make the FN Reflex an extremely safe and reliable concealed carry pistol.

“The concealed carry 9mm pistol category is the fastest growing pistol segment in our industry because more and more people are taking their personal protection seriously. But their choices have been limited to a few options, until now,” said Chris Cole, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for FN America, LLC. “With the release of the FN Reflex and Reflex MRD, consumers have a new choice that embraces future-forward concealed carry technology. It is the first micro compact handgun to solve the tradeoffs for accuracy, deep concealment and max capacity, which consumers have often compromised on in the past. We’re confident this new pistol has set a new standard for everyday carry.”

The FN Reflex is capable of achieving match-grade accuracy from its a 3.3-inch cold hammer-forged barrel, which is housed within a 6.2-inch slide that has front and rear cocking serrations for easy slide racking and press checks. Both models are configured with three-dot iron sights with a tritium front night sight that aids in low light sight acquisition. Micro red dot (MRD) models have a factory-milled slide to direct mount a micro red dot in a few minutes. The optics mount features a top plate that is removed to install a micro red dot and includes mounting screws. The optic mounting system is compatible with the Shield RMSc, Holosun K-series and is capable of accepting more than six micro red dot optics with similar footprints. Configured with the smallest optics, the FN Reflex MRD is extremely low profile, making deep concealment even easier with reduced snag points under cover garments.

“What sets Reflex apart results from FN’s approach to development,” said John Ryan, Director of Product Management for FN America, LLC. “Our team studied the impacts of user interface and ergonomics on the overall shooting experience as an important part of this project. The result is a slim 1-inch-wide micro compact pistol that fits comfortably in the hand, with an easy to rack slide, and excellent trigger. The use of multi-faceted texturing anchors the gun to your hand during fire. And the overall low bore axis of Reflex further reduces felt recoil making this incredibly small pistol easy to conceal, control and shoot accurately.”

The FN Reflex boasts impressive ergonomics from its slim, 1-inch-wide grip frame and controls that have been optimized for everyday carry like the oversized slide lock and low-profile, reversible magazine release. With a grip angle and profile that have been specifically designed to deliver a natural point of aim, enabling faster sight acquisition and match-grade accuracy. The pistol’s frame also features an aggressive in-mold stippled texture in the palm swell that locks the pistol into the hand along with vertical scale-like texturing on the front and back straps that prevent the pistol from rocking back and forth under recoil. Contributing to the controllability of the FN Reflex is the extremely low bore axis that works together with the grip profile, angle and texturing to make the reflex an incredibly controllable micro compact pistol that is enjoyable to shoot, train with and carry.

 “Aside from delivering a micro compact pistol with optimized dimensions for concealed carry and advanced ergonomics for control and shootability, our team chose to develop a best-in-class trigger with a clean, 5-pound crisp break. And the FN Reflex’s trigger is exceptionally good for the category with its smooth take-up and roughly 5-pound break,” said Chris Johnson, Senior Pistol Product Manager for FN America, LLC. “All in, we’ve delivered a 9mm micro compact pistol purpose-built for the concealed carry buyer with impressive ergonomics, extended capacity, a great trigger and with optics capabilities that is easy to control and shoot well. We’re extremely proud of what we have developed with the FN Reflex.”

The Reflex ships with two magazines included in the box, giving the user an onboard capacity of 26 rounds plus one in the chamber when all magazines are fully loaded. The 11-round magazine is outfitted with a pinky extension that enables most users to get a full hand grip on the frame, providing just enough space for the pinky finger to rest comfortably. The 15-round extended magazine features a grip sleeve with the same aggressive in-mold stippled texture and extends approximately one inch from the bottom of the frame, allowing for a fuller grip and more recoil control when fired. All FN Reflex pistols also ship with one flush-fit baseplate should consumers wish to swap out the pinky extension of the 11-round magazine for an even lower profile that reduces the likelihood of printing under cover garments.

Along with the release of the pistols, FN has developed and launched an ambidextrous inside-the-waistband holster for the FN Reflex and FN Reflex MRD. With a thin profile for IWB concealment, the injection-molded holster provides complete retention and immediate access. Adjustable for retention, belt clip cant and left-or-right-hand use, this new holster matches the versatility of the FN Reflex in a design customized for concealment. The IWB Reflex holster is available for purchase through the FN eStore and other authorized retailers.

See the FN Reflex and Reflex MRD at the FN Booth (Booth 5450) at the 152nd NRA Annual Meetings. The convention, hosted at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Indiana, will take place April 14-16, 2023. To learn more about the FN Reflex and Reflex MRD, please visit fnamerica.com/reflex.