B5 Systems

Posts Tagged ‘Magpul’

Ft Benning Cancels Reverse Auction For 12,600 PMAGs

Monday, October 2nd, 2017

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In August US Army Mission and Installation Contracting Command at Fort Benning announced an intent to purchase 12,600 GEN M3 PMAGs from a commercial source via reverse auction.

For this solicitation, MICC End User intends to conduct an online competitive reverse auction to be facilitated by the third-party reverse auction provider, FedBid, Inc. FedBid has developed an online, anonymous, browser based application to conduct the reverse auction. An Offeror may submit a series of pricing bids, which descend in price during the specified period of time for the aforementioned reverse auction.

Reverse auctions sound like a great idea, at least for commodity items like ink pens and toilet paper. Essentially, the government outsources the buy to a third party and they host the reverse auction which sees companies compete with each other to fulfill the contract for less and less money until a winner emerges which will do it for less than anyone else. The thing is, you have to be very careful with this purchasing vehicle. Because the winner will be doing it for pennies on the dollar, there’s lots of incentive to cut corners and give the government exactly what they asked for.

Below is the description of what they intended to buy. Emphasis added is mine, to point out that just a few words give bidders an excuse to substitute the PMAGs with something else entirely, in order to underbid eveyone else.

M4 Magazine. Color preference is coyote tan, but gray/black is also considered. Fits 30 rounds of 5.56×45 ammunition. Transparent window on side to see the ammunition level. Strong and durable springs. Light polymer material. Warranty for defective items. Include shipping. PMAG 30 AR/M4 GEN M3 Window or equal., 12600, EA;

If the units at Fort Benning had received an “equivalent” when they expected PMAGs, it wouldn’t have been the first time a reverse auction has failed to deliver what the unit thought they were asking for.

Fortunately, they cancelled this purchase. The Army issued Maintenance Information (MI) Message 17-045, which authorized units to requisition GEN M3 PMAGS under NSN 1005-01-615-5169 (BLACK) and NSN 1005-01-659-7086 (COYOTE TAN) as Additional Authorization List (AAL) items. By ordering through the stock system, they’ll get exactly what they want, and at contract price.

Army Now Authorized Users Of Magpul GEN M3 PMAG Magazine NSNs

Thursday, September 28th, 2017

According to Maintenance Information (MI) Message 17-045, although the Enhanced Performance Magazine (NSN 1005-01-630-9508) is still the primary magazine for the M4/M16 series rifles and carbines, units are now authorized to requisition the following polymer magazines NSN 1005-01-615-5169 (BLACK) and NSN 1005-01-659-7086 (COYOTE TAN) as Additional Authorization List (AAL) items.

Below is the message minus addressees:

BT UNCLAS SUBJ/TACOM LCMC 17-045, M16/M4 NEW MAGAZINES
Subject: Maintenance Information (MI) Message, TACOM Life Cycle Management Command, (TACOM LCMC) Control No. MI 17-045, (Informational), M16/M4 New Magazines.

Models Affected:
Rifle, 5.56mm, M16A2 (NSN 1005-01-128-9936); Rifle, 5.56mm, M16A4 (NSN 1005-01-383-2872); Carbine, 5.56mm, M4 (NSN 1005-01-231-0973); Carbine, 5.56 mm, M4A1 (NSN 1005-01-382-0953)

Total Density of Equipment Affected is 900000, and Density of Equipment affected in SWA is 50000.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
X “ATTENTION” X
X THIS MESSAGE CONTAINS INFORMATION THAT IS VITAL X
X TO THE SAFETY OF ARMY PERSONNEL AND THE OPERATION X
X OR MAINTENANCE OF ARMY EQUIPMENT X
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

REFERENCES: TM 9-1005-319-10
TM 9-1005-319-23&P
MAINTENANCE INFORMATION (MI) MESSAGE, #12-039 dated May 2012

1. Distribution:

This is a Maintenance Information (MI) Message. Commanders/Directors of Army Commands (ACOM)/Army Service Component Commands (ASCC)/Direct Reporting Units (DRU), Army National Guard (ARNG), US Army Reserve (USAR) Command, US Navy (USN), US Air Force (USAF), US Marine Corps (USMC) and other Service Commanders and Responsible Offices will retransmit this message to all subordinate Commanders/Activities.

2. Message Library:

This message will be available on the Maintenance Messages Web Site located on the TACOM Unique Logistics Support Applications (TULSA) portal within twenty-four hours of transmission. Access to the Maintenance Messages Web site requires CAC authentication. You must first request access to the Maintenance Messages Web site. To request access go to [CAUTION] https://tulsa.tacom.army.mil [CAUTION]. For assistance, email the TULSA Helpdesk at usarmy.detroit.tacom.mbx.ilsc-tulsa@mail.mil. The Maintenance Messages Web site also has the capability to email maintenance messages directly to your inbox. To subscribe to the mailing list, click on, -E-Mail Subscriptions-, on the Navigation bar.

3. Issue:

Units are now authorized to requisition the following polymer magazines NSN 1005-01-615-5169 (BLACK) and NSN 1005-01-659-7086 (COYOTE TAN) as Additional Authorization List (AAL) items.

4. User Actions:

a. The Enhanced Performance Magazine (NSN 1005-01-630-9508) is still the primary magazine for the M4/M16 series rifles and carbines, and will still be included as a Component of End Item.

Units are now also authorized to requisition, at the commander’s discretion, polymer magazines NSN 1005-01-615-5169 (BLACK) and NSN
1005-01-659-7086 (COYOTE TAN) as AAL items.

b. Field Level, Operator

c. This message supersedes TACOM LCMC, MAINTENANCE INFORMATION (MI) MESSAGE, #12-039 dated May 2012.

d. NSN 1005-01-615-5169 (Black), P/N MAG556-BLK, 1LX50
NSN 1005-01-659-7086 (Coyote Tan), P/N MAG556-MCT, 1LX50

e. Units and Soldiers are authorized to procure and use polymer magazines in M16 and M4 rifles & carbines at the Commander’s discretion. Ongoing testing, due to be complete in 1QFY18, demonstrate Magpul PMAG Gen 3 Black magazines are currently providing adequate performance and reliability in the M4A1 Carbine under virtually all conditions and are appropriate for use. Tests demonstrate PMAG magazines crack/break in cold (below 0 degrees
Fahrenheit) environments when dropped and units should use Army-standard aluminum magazines in basic to severe cold environments.

Caution should be exercised when using the magazine in basic cold to severe cold environments (-0F to -60F). Cracking and/or shattering was observed during drop testing at and below -0 Fahrenheit and lighter damage at higher temperatures. Visually inspect for cracks, breaks, chips, or other damage to magazine assembly if dropped. Replace if defective or unserviceable.

5. Unit Commanders:

a. Commanders are authorized to requisition polymer magazines NSN
1005-01-615-5169 and NSN 1005-01-659-7086, at their discretion.

b. Contact your local TACOM LCMC Logistics Assistance Representative
(LAR) or your State Surface Maintenance Manager upon receipt of this message for assistance. For assistance in locating your TACOM LCMC LAR, see paragraph 8c.

6. TACOM LCMC/PM actions:

a. Publications: TM 9-1005-319-23&P Estimated completion date 2nd Qtr CY 2018

TM 9-1005-319-10 Estimated completion date 1st Qtr CY 2018

b. Follow-up action(s): N/A

c. Assistance to the field: N/A

7. Supply Status:

a. Parts required: NSN 1005-01-615-5169 (Black), P/N MAG556-BLK,
1LX50 NSN 1005-01-659-7086 (Coyote Tan), P/N MAG556-MCT, 1LX50

b. Requisitioning instructions: Units are required to requisition the magazines through the DoD supply system

c. Disposition/Availability: N/A

d. Cost Impact: NSN 1005-01-615-5169 $14.00
NSN 1005-01-659-7086 $10.00

e. Who pays: Units requisitioning AAL items

8. POCs:

a. The originator of this message is Kenneth Hiltunen, XXX.

b. There are no appropriate POCs

Magpul GL Enhanced Magazine Well for Glock 17 Gen 4 – Now Shipping

Thursday, August 31st, 2017

The Magpul GL Enhanced Magazine Well is a high-performance purpose-built Glock frame magazine well. Designed to fully enhance and ensure positive magazine insertion in high stress scenarios. Sleek and ergonomic design features also provide excellent concealment while ensuring minimal printing to the users clothing. Ramp and edge geometry allow for, should it be needed, positive and flawless removal of a faulty or stuck magazine during reloading or immediate action events.

• Large ramp area for easier reloading
• External dimensions ensure minimal printing when carrying concealed
• Reinforced polymer construction
• Compatible with Magpul, OEM and most aftermarket magazine floor plates
• Compatible with most common after-market magazine extensions
• Easy installation
• Made in U.S.A.

Fitment Information:

MAG908 – for GLOCK® 17 GEN3
Also fits: GLOCK 17L GEN3, GLOCK 22 GEN3, GLOCK 24 GEN3, GLOCK 31 GEN3, GLOCK 34 GEN3, GLOCK 35 GEN3, GLOCK 37 GEN3

MAG932 – for GLOCK® 17 GEN4
Also fits: GLOCK 22 GEN4, GLOCK 31 GEN4, GLOCK 34 GEN4, GLOCK 35 GEN4, GLOCK 37 GEN4

MAG940 – for GLOCK® 19 GEN3 (Coming Fall 2017)
Also fits: GLOCK 23 GEN3, GLOCK 32 GEN3, GLOCK 38 GEN3

MAG950 – for GLOCK® 19 GEN4 (Coming Fall 2017)
Also fits: GLOCK 23 GEN4, GLOCK 32 GEN4

www.magpul.com/products/gl-enhanced-magazine-well-1

US Air Force Adopts Magpul GEN M3 PMAG

Tuesday, August 29th, 2017

According to a document entitled, “USAF Authorized Small Arms and Light Weapons (SA/LW) Accessories (as of 28 July 17)”, the US Air Force has followed USSOCOM and the Marine Corps’ lead and adopted the 30rd Magpul GEN M3 PMAG in both Black and Tan. Specifically, they are authorized for use with the M4/M4A1 Carbine, GUU-5P (sic) Carbine, and M249 Automatic Rifle (sic).

When queried about this update, Magpul issued us this statement:

“We are certainly pleased that another major service component has taken their own look at the test data and come to the same conclusion as the Marine Corps and USSOCOM. Given the body of existing data, the extensive fielding history since 2013, and the current experiences of the USMC after their adoption, we hope that Army leadership can put aside their concerns over the viability of their own magazine program and give soldiers the reliability advantage that is enjoyed by the USMC, USSOCOM, and now, the USAF, with the GEN M3 PMAG.”

According to the guidance, previously issued magazines are to be replaced by the GEN M3 PMAG through attrition. This highlighted extract contains the germane information (including NSNs). However, we offer the entire document here.

For those interested, GEN M3 PMAGs are available from www.magpul.com and authorized dealers.

Magpul DAKA Everyday Wallet

Wednesday, August 9th, 2017

The Magpul DAKA Everyday Wallet is their latest addition to their wallet line. I’ve been using a DAKA wallet since last year and it has really helped me cut down on my wallet clutter.

They added a matte translucent, thermoplastic polyurethane window to keep you from having to dig out your library card all of the time. They say it won’t rip or streak.

I am very happy to see Magpul added a center pocket to add more room for currency. Simply fold your bills in half and they tuck neatly away inside the resized center compartment.

Features:
· Windowed ID pocket
· Center divider pocket for bills and notes
· 10% larger than our Essential Wallet and holds 3-7 cards comfortably
· Reinforced polymer fabric with anti-slip texture
· Welded construction creates permanent impenetrable seals
· Chemical resistant / Non-hygroscopic
· Made in the USA

Now, I just wish they’d add a compartment for my coin.

www.magpul.com/products/magpul-daka-everyday-wallet

Magpul – PMAG 30 AR 300 B GEN M3 for .300 Blackout

Tuesday, July 18th, 2017

Why a Dedicated 300 BLK Mag?

While some .300 Blackout® ammo runs consistently in 5.56 magazines for some users, others have found it to be problematic. At the request of some demanding professional users, we have designed an ultra-reliable magazine dedicated to handling the challenges of various 300 BLK ammunition types.

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Optimizes Round Stack

300 BLK rounds come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and some don’t interface correctly with the contact areas in a 5.56 mag. This can ultimately cause stoppages. By designing a PMAG specifically for .300 Blackout, we were able to optimize the round stack for the increasing variety of 300 BLK projectiles.

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Minimizes Side Pressure and Friction

Dust or suppressor fouling magnify the problem—especially with certain subsonic rounds. This creates side pressure within the mag, adding friction and slowing the stack movement upwards. This is a geometry issue that our PMAG 30 AR 300 B is engineered to solve.

IMG_3052

Avoids Caliber Misidentification

The dedicated PMAG for 300 BLK includes tactile and visual cues that differentiate it from 5.56 PMAGs for those who need to switch types of ammunition rapidly. This helps to avoid dangerous misidentifications and cross loading.

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Maintains PMAG Reliability

Like all PMAGs, the PMAG 30 AR 300 B GEN M3 magazine features a long-life USGI-spec stainless steel spring, four-way anti-tilt follower and constant-curve internal geometry for reliable feeding.

www.magpul.com/products/pmag-30-ar-300-b-gen-m3-300-blk

Magpul X-22 Backpacker in FDE Now Shipping

Friday, July 14th, 2017

The X-22 Backpacker in FDE for the Ruger 10/22 Takedown is now shipping!

www.magpul.com/products/x-22-backpacker-stock-ruger-10-22-takedow

Magpul – UBR GEN2 Stock and AK74 5.45×39 PMAGs Now Shipping

Tuesday, June 27th, 2017

UBR GEN2 Collapsible Stock

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The UBR GEN2 is an adjustable stock for the AR15/M4, designed to offer the same strength and stability as a fixed stock with a consistent and comfortable cheek weld in any position. An update of the revolutionary Utility/Battle Rifle (UBR) stock, the UBR GEN2 features a fixed cheek piece to provide a consistent cheek weld in any of its eight positions, and is compatible with Carbine as well as A5-length buffer systems. Designed to accommodate large bore AR calibers and withstand severe impacts, the UBR GEN2 is nearly five ounces lighter while retaining all the durability its predecessor was legendary for.

Comes standard with front and rear QD sling attachment points, two footman’s loops, the ergonomic MOE SL™ angled-toe rubber butt-pad, and customizable storage compartment.

PMAG 30 AK74 MOE 5.45X39MM

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The PMAG 30 AK74 MOE is an inexpensive, lightweight, high reliability 30-round polymer magazine designed for Kalashnikov pattern rifles in 5.45x39mm (AK74, MPi-AK-74N, PA md. 86, and others.)

It features a removable floorplate, constant curve geometry, and a high-reliability/low-friction follower for the affordable performance you expect from a MOE PMAG.