XC3 Weaponlight

Blackhawk Sponsors Tactical Athlete Ehea Schuerch

February 9th, 2023

Brand to Serve as 2023 Tactical Games Platinum Sponsor

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – February 8, 2023 – Blackhawk®, a leader in law enforcement and military equipment for over 20 years, is proud to announce its sponsorship of tactical athlete Ehea Schuerch for the 2023 Tactical Games. Schuerch is one of the sport’s up and coming female competitors and the 2023 season marks her second year of competition as well as Blackhawk’s second year of sponsorship for The Tactical Games.

A Spokane, Washington native, Schuerch began competing at The Tactical Games in 2022, where she quickly became one of the games’ fiercest competitors. She placed third at the Bend, Oregon competition and second at the Phoenix, Arizona competition which sealed her national’s qualification. At last year’s National Championship in Florence, Texas, Schuerch placed second amongst a group of 15 elite female competitors.

Outside of competition, Schuerch has served as a corrections officer at the Spokane County Jail for seven years, where she is also the only female to join the jail’s Correctional Response Team (CRT). Additionally, she has served as a defensive tactics instructor for nearly six years, is EMT certified and has competed in regional and national CrossFit competitions since 2016. In 2017 she placed first at the Bi-Annual World Police and Fire Games, and in 2018 placed 17th overall at the World CrossFit Games.

“I’m honored to be backed by a tried-and-true company like Blackhawk and feel confident knowing that I’m running the best gear in competition and for my regular everyday carry,” said Schuerch. “The Tactical Games is paving the way as a new sport by combining firearms and fitness, and it reflects the training that I’ve been doing for several years on the job. I enjoy the test it places on an individual’s physical preparedness, and I look forward to sharing with others my personal journey this season.”

For 2023, Blackhawk will serve as Platinum Sponsor for The Tactical Games. Attracting some of the best professional and amateur tactical athletes nationwide, The Tactical Games have become a proving ground for the latest in cutting-edge tactical gear. The games’ intense physical nature and marksmanship tests require efficient gear setups that prioritize firearm security, retention and accessibility as well as comfort and weight – all tenants at the center of Blackhawk’s designs.

Schuerch’s first competition with Team Blackhawk is at The Tactical Games Mississippi Regional, which takes place on February 18-19 in Meridian, Mississippi. During the competition, Schuerch plans to utilize the Blackhawk Foundation Series Plate Carrier and T-Series holster as part of her go-to-kit.

To learn more about The Tactical Games, head over to thetacticalgames.com, and to learn more about Blackhawk or to see their full lineup of holsters and tactical gear, check out Blackhawk.com.

Wilde Custom Gear Offers “Red Dawn” Camouflage Option

February 9th, 2023

For a limited time you can get Wilde Custom Gear’s design in what they are calling “Red Dawn” camouflage which mimics the KLMK pattern worn by Soviet troops in the 1980s cult classic movie “Red Dawn”. Get yours before it’s gone.

wildecustomgear.com

TangoDown – Vickers Tactical Steel Magazine Release for G43X/G48

February 9th, 2023

TangoDown® Inc. announces newest item to the Vickers Tactical™ lineup:  Steel Magazine Release for G43X/G48 (GMR-007S).  We teamed up with Addtac MFG. to have our existing GMR-007 magazine release created in steel.  This steel magazine release is compatible for use with the Shield Arms® S15 steel magazines.  The GMR-007S is the same shape as the existing magazine release, but offers the durability needed to function with steel magazines.

Features:

– All steel composition for compatibility with Shield Arms® S15 Steel Magazines

– Extended and contoured for easy manipulation

– Ambidextrous

– Durable black nitride finish

For use with G43X and G48 ONLY.

NOT for use with OEM GLOCK® factory magazines or other polymer magazines.

MSRP:  $31.00

**If you are not familiar with modifying your firearms, seek appropriate assistance from a Certified Armorer or Gunsmith.

For more information on the GMR-007S, visit: tangodown.com/vickers-tactical-steel-magazine-release-for-glock-43x-48

Customer Questions:  sales@tangodown.com

Beez Combat Systems PAPR Pouch and CBRN Tube Covers

February 9th, 2023

BCS PAPR Pouch and CBRN Tube Covers.

Available Now.

Burris Introduces Next-Gen Rifle Scope: The Veracity PH

February 9th, 2023

Burris Optics, a leading manufacturer of hunting optics, has introduced a new rifle scope they say aims to revolutionize the industry. As they tell it, the Veracity PH 4-20x50mm is packed with cutting-edge features such as the Programmable Elevation Knob (PEK) system, high-quality optics, and other high-tech goodies. Get ready for a detailed look at the impressive features of the Burris Veracity PH 4-20x50mm.

Let’s see what Burris had to say in the rest of the release.

The Burris Optics: Veracity PH 4-20x50mm

Burris Optics, known for pushing optics forward with products like the Eliminator Riflescope and Oracle Bowsight, has introduced a revolutionary rifle optic, the new Veracity PH 4-20x50mm.

Featuring the new PEK (Programable Elevation Knob) system, premium optical clarity, a built-in Heads-Up Display (HUD), and Bluetooth connectivity for uploading custom ballistic data from the new BurrisConnect Mobile App, the Veracity PH takes hunter confidence and performance to the highest level.

Burris Optics Veracity

The most precise hunting optic ever produced by Burris, the Veracity PH 4-20x50mm introduces features that redefine what is possible in a riflescope. In addition, it sets a new standard for confident point-of-aim/point-of-impact performance at extended distances.

 

These features build on years of research and development to “do the math” for the shooter and achieve precise shot placement easily and efficiently. It provides an accurate dialing solution extremely fast, eliminating time lost to hesitantly fumbling with dope cards and data sheets. Instead, it allows hunters to apply valuable time to focus on getting clean, controlled shots on unpredictable targets.

Veracity PH App

This complex-to-simple performance centers on Veracity PH’s PEK (pronounced “peak”) system and a robust yet easy-to-assess heads-up display showing the exact dialed distance, wind hold, rifle cant, and battery level. With user-configurable and uploadable ballistic data via Bluetooth connectivity through the BurrisConnect App, hunters can be assured of precise aiming.

A digital position sensor in the scope’s clickless elevation turret achieves 1/10 MOA equivalent adjustability for near exact dial-in to distance in yards or meters—unprecedented precision in today’s conventional scope technology. Additional ¼ MOA laser markings on the elevation turret provide redundancy for peace of mind on any hunt allowing the shooter to still dial to distance and complete their no matter the circumstances. Simply range the target using any rangefinder, dial to the distance in Yards or Meters displayed on the scope HUD, and fire.

The Veracity PH utilizes stand-alone programming in a fail-proof platform, and Wi-Fi or cell service is not needed to use the BurrisConnect App after it has been downloaded. Bluetooth connectivity between the mobile device and scope is required only when uploading ballistics or changing scope settings, making this a proper “set-and-forget” system. With this app-to-scope integration, shooters can create customized ballistic profiles for multiple bullet weights, rifles, and shooting locations and easily upload the desired profile whenever needed.

Boasting a 5x zoom system and high-performance glass with exceptional brightness and clarity, the Veracity PH is built around the award-winning Veracity 4-20x50mm, covering the needs of hunters engaging game close-up or far away in all lighting conditions. The Wind MOA FFP reticle is a front focal plane design, making hold-off and hold-over compensation accurate at any magnification. Side focus/parallax adjustment ensures the target image matches the reticle focal point from 50 yards to infinity, thereby eliminating parallax error on extended-range shots. Both windage and elevation turrets feature zero turn-stop adjustments, so shooters never lose zero.

Burris Optics on horseback

Burris set out to provide hunters with a class-leading rifle scope that bridges the gap between today’s advanced ammunition and firearm technology. It’s a solution for shooters of all experience levels seeking a fast, reliable, and uncomplicated aiming solution for any hunting scenario – and thanks to Gun University, mounting the scope with the right rings will be an equally simple task.

With its easy-to-use operation, intuitive data presentation, and ability to work with custom ballistic profiles, the new Burris Veracity PH 4-20x50mm can maximize every hunter’s potential for success in the field.

Burris Veracity

Burris Veracity PH 4-20x50mm Specifications

  • Item Number: 200200
  • Magnification: 4-20x50mm
  • Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
  • Tube Diameter: 30mm
  • Field of View (Low to High @ 100 yards): 26 – 5.5 ft.
  • Eye relief (in.): 3.5 – 4.25
  • Exit Pupils – Low / High (mm): 12 – 2.5
  • Diopter Setting: +2 to -3
  • Reticle Plane: Front
  • Display Plane: Rear
  • Reticle: Wind MOA FFP
  • Display Illumination: Rotary Dial, 5 illumination settings
  • Battery: CR 2450 x2
  • Length (in.): 15
  • Weight (oz.): 27.2
  • Elevation Turret Marking Graduations: ¼ MOA
  • Elevation Turret Digital Resolution: 1/10 MOA
  • Total Elevation Adjustment Range*: 66 MOA
  • Elevation Turret Travel Limit**: 33.8 MOA
  • Windage Turret Graduations (Clicks): ¼ MOA
  • Total Windage Adjustment Range*: 37 MOA
  • Windage Turret Travel Limit**: 24 MOA
  • Parallax Focus: Side Focus
  • Parallax/Focus Range: 50 Yd. to Infinity
  • Operating Temperature: -20° to +140° F
  • MSRP: $1,200

* Example: 50 MOA total adjustment range equates to roughly 25 MOA in either direction from center.

** Rotation-limited dial (12 MOA left or right from zero position)

For a complete overview of the Veracity PH 4-20x50mm rifle scope, including an unboxing video and tutorial videos, check out BurrisOptics.com.

5.11 Announces the Return of ABR Academy Classes for 2023 in Collaboration with USCCA

February 9th, 2023

Plans for more than 300 classes to take place at 5.11-owned retail locations

COSTA MESA, Calif. (Feb. 8, 2023) – 5.11 Tactical, the global innovator of Purpose-Built Gear™, today announced the return of its popular ABR (Always Be Ready) Academy in 2023 in collaboration with the United States Concealed Carry Association (USCCA). Together, the companies plan to host more than 300 free instructional classes at 5.11-owned retail locations across the U.S. to provide tips, tactics and insight on readiness skills for local community members.

“Last month marked 20 years for 5.11 on our quest to develop innovative gear for life’s most demanding missions. We strive to help our families, friends and communities be prepared for anything to happen,” said 5.11’s CEO, Francisco Morales. “The ABR Academy is designed to help attendees become more equipped for challenges and emergencies by building proper mindsets, readiness skills and gear. It’s all part of living the 5.11 mantra of Always Be Ready.”

The ABR Academy classes will provide first-hand learning and guidance on topics ranging from building emergency preparedness kits and bug-out bags to self-defense and trauma care. Each course is free to attend and will be hosted by certified experts, including instructors from the USCCA.

“Our mission is to save lives and help build safer, more prepared communities through education and training,” said Tim Schmidt, President and Co-founder of the USCCA. “Collaborating with 5.11 on the ABR Academy classes will help us strengthen that mission while reaching thousands of attendees in communities all across the country.”

The USCCA is the largest, fastest-growing self-defense association dedicated to responsible firearm owners, with over 700,000 members and 10,000 instructors nationwide. It offers industry-leading training, lifesaving education and self-defense liability insurance to help members build preparedness and confidence.

“Like 5.11, USCCA also celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, and similarly, has been at the forefront of providing education and readiness training for communities across the U.S. for several years now,” added Morales. “We’re thrilled to work with them throughout 2023 and look forward to helping more folks learn to Always Be Ready.”

For more information about 5.11’s ABR Academy and collaboration with the USCCA, or to find an ABR Academy class near you, please visit 511abracademy.usconcealedcarry.com.

53rd Wing’s MUSTANGS: The Future Of Agile Data Capture And ACE Capability

February 9th, 2023

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFNS) —  

The 59th Test and Evaluation Squadron hit major milestones in the development and testing of their Multi-Utilization Secure Tactical and Network Ground Station, or MUSTANGS, through its recent participation in Pacific Edge 22.

During the exercise, MUSTANGS proved its ability to process, curate, and send F-35A Lightning II data over-the-horizon to a reprogramming laboratory, all in a matter of minutes.

Part of the Crowd-Sourced Flight Data program, MUSTANGS is a mobile vehicle that can download, process, and offload important data from Quick Reaction Instrumentation Package-equipped aircraft without the need for fixed, operational test infrastructure.

“Right now, MUSTANGS are for the test community, but it has massive operational implications,” said Lt. Col. Nathan Malafa, 59th TES commander. “Our intent is to reduce risk and show the CAF (Combat Air Forces) the value of obtaining and communicating data from the operational edge.”

Before MUSTANGS, edge-collected data had to be downloaded in a secure facility, transferred to a hard drive or disk, and hand-delivered to a data customer; an outdated process that is cumbersome and too slow for the rapidly changing operational environment.

With MUSTANGS, however, the 59th TES has proven that data processing is flexible, reliable, deployable, and most importantly: immediate.

“A modern, contested environment is constantly changing,” Malafa said. “The faster and more accurate data is made available to decision makers, the more likely the warfighter will succeed over the adversary.”

The 59th TES is looking to generate another MUSTANGS milestone during the upcoming exercise, Northern Edge 23. The team plans to use F-35s participating in the exercise to find a unique waveform in the operating environment, transfer that data to MUSTANGS, curate the data, and make it available to the U.S. Reprogramming Laboratory, which is managed by the 513th Electronic Warfare Squadron at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. The 513th EWS is responsible for producing Mission Data Files for all U.S. F-35s, including those flown by the Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, making them the most lethal and survivable combat aircraft.

Once the 513th EWS receives the data, they analyze and action it to reprogram and updated MDF, push it to the MUSTANG, and load it back on the F-35s prior to their next flight. This process normally takes days to weeks and has never been accomplished before in a matter of hours.

“Data evolutions like MUSTANGS turn edge data into information rapidly, which is exactly the kind of innovation we need to stay ahead in the modern age of warfare,” Malafa said. “There is no doubt that those who can transmit information at the speed of relevance will win.”

By 1st Lt Lindsey Heflin, 53rd Wing Public Affairs

Valiant Awarded $67 Million Contract by United States Army for Joint Training Analytical Support Across Europe

February 8th, 2023

HERNDON, Va., Feb. 07, 2023 — Valiant announced today that the U.S. Army’s Theater Contracting Center (TCC) in Kaiserslautern has awarded the company a five-year non-personal services contract with a maximum value of $67 million to provide Joint Training Analytical Support (JTAS) to U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) J7, U.S. Air Forces Europe and Air Forces Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA), and Special Operations Command Europe (SOCEUR) in their execution of the USEUCOM Joint Training and Exercise Program (JTEP), the Joint and Individual Staff Training (JIST) Program, and the Joint Training System (JTS).

“Valiant is honored to continue our 60 years of experience developing training solutions in support of the U.S. European Command Joint Training and Exercise Directorate (ECJ7),” said Dan Corbett, Valiant’s Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to maintaining our vital role to improve the warfighting readiness of our joint force in coordination with our allies and partners.”

As a leading provider of training and readiness services, Valiant supports all phases of the JTS, including military staff training, military exercise planning, simulations programming, Department of Defense budgeting, Joint Event Life Cycle event design, event facilitation, military exercise control, exercise assessments, and readiness and lessons learned analysis. Under this contract, Valiant will support joint training and exercise efforts at multiple locations within the USEUCOM and USAFRICOM areas of responsibility.

“Valiant looks forward to continuing our joint and combined training in Europe and Africa to increase the readiness of the joint force as we work to strengthen relationships and interoperability with our allies and partners through the JTEP,” added Ashlee Dominguez, Valiant’s Vice President of Intelligence and Analysis Solutions.