TH E MAGAZ I N E FO R TH E ALPHA MALE
OUTDOORS - ADRENALINE - TACTICAL - ESSENTIALS - FITNESS - EXPLORE
WINTER WARRIOR WINTER IS COMING KEEP THE COLD OUT!
HELIKON
WE SHOWCASE SOME CHOICE PICKS!
AIMPOINT OPTICS
CARRYING ON WITH OUR OPTICS THEME, THIS MONTH WE PLACE SWEDISH COMANY AIMPOINT IN OUR SIGHT!
WALKING WITH THE WOUNDED
GET BEHIND OUR WOUNDED WARRIORS THIS CHRISTMAS WITH WALKING WITH THE WOUNDED
STOCKING FILLERS
TRIED & TESTED ebcon publishing ltd.
RAIDER ONLINE
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VOLUME 8 ISSUE 8
£4.25
CHRISTMAS WILL SOON BE UPON US! SO WE'VE PICKED 33 TREATS FOR YOUR LOVED ONES
WILSPORT BACKPACK ROUND UP
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OUTDOORS - ADRENALINE - TACTICAL - FITNESS - EXPLORE
MEET THE TEAM
PAUL MONAF
PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Email: paul@ebcon.co.uk Tel: +44 (0)1775 750005
CONNOR MONAF
EDITOR Email: connor@ebcon.co.uk Tel: +44 (0)1775 750005
BEN DICKIE
ART DIRECTOR Email: design@ebcon.co.uk Tel: +44 (0)1775 750005
BEN WEBB
CONTRIBUTOR Email: webb@ebcon.co.uk
TRAMPAS SWANSON FIREARMS Email: trampas@ebcon.co.uk
MARKUS MOTUM
ILLUSTRATION Email: markus@ebcon.co.uk
SHARON MONAF
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR Email: sharon@ebcon.co.uk Tel: +44 (0)1775 750005
SUBSRCIPTIONS
SHARON MONAF: ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR sharon@ebcon.co.uk
ADVERTISING
PAUL MONAF: SALES AND PUBLISHING DIRECTOR paul@ebcon.co.uk
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DIRECT ACTION! This month I found myself asking questions in regards to the direction Raider has taken over the last year or two, and as to whether the direction taken, is the direction best for the magazine. As those of you who’ve read Raider from the start will know, the magazine was spawned due to us thinking our boys and girls in the Armed Forces needed a no nonsense, truthful and insightful magazine that gave them the information they needed, as well as giving them a magazine they could read whilst in theatre in a bid to take their mind off of the looming danger of battle. Whilst that was our sole targeted audience, we also began picking up a huge amount of civilian readers, who simply wanted to keep up with the going-ons of our Armed Forces, and more importantly wanted a source of information in regards to what was happening in theatre. As the years went on, and operational duty began winding down in both Iraq and Afghanistan, we had to remould the magazine; keeping up with the times and keeping up with what we thought our readership would be interested in. However, one feature has always been present, and will remain present - Direct Action. Direct Action has always been a very interesting and informative series of articles, placed solely to inform others of what various Armed Forces around the world have been doing, but with a severe slant towards our own - the British Armed Forces. Over the years, we’ve featured some absolutely amazing features, involving some outstanding imagery photographed by Combat Photographers in theatre. When putting together Direct Action this month, the sheer amount of good features to use was mind boggling, and as to not miss the chance to report on some interesting topics, we simply featured it all! So this month, you’ll be seeing a lot more Direct Action than usual, but that doesn’t mean we’ve skimped on the other articles that make Raider the magazine it is today, because you’ll still find said articles adorning the pages of Raider. You’ll also find some articles this month have a little Christmas cheer thrown in, and whilst it may be a bit premature, the world of publishing is a funny one, and I find myself working on Christmas articles in October. But is it ever too early to start thinking of Christmas gifts for the family? I think not! So from everyone here at Raider, we’d like to wish you a premature Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!
Connor
Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of articles in this magazine, but the publisher accepts no responsibility for any errors contained in material from independent sources or authors. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photography or illustration in any form without permission from the publisher/editor is strictly prohibited. We welcome articles, photographs or artwork. Raider Magazine cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage to unsolicited material. Please enclose a SAE if you wish your material to be returned. Competitions will be judged on the dates specified. No correspondence will be entered into and the judge’s decision is final. In the event of the published prize not being available due to circumstances beyond the control of the magazine, a suitable alternative of similar value will be provided.
READ RAIDER ONLINE VIA POCKETMAGS!
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VOLUME 8 ISSUE 8
CONTENTS 06 NEWS
NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE. WHAT’S HOT AND WHAT’S NOT!
07 GEAR WATCH
WHAT’S HOT, AND WHAT’S NOT IN THE WORLD OF TACTICAL GEAR!
09 FIREPOWER
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THIS MONTH TRAMPAS TAKES A LOOK AT A RANGE OF ACCESSORIES FOR THE ICONIC RUGER 10/22
12 SURVIVAL
AL FRESCO - EATING PROPERLY IN THE OUTDOORS
16 HELIKON
WE SHOWCASE SOME CHOICE PICKS FROM HELIKON
18 GLOVES ON TEST!
THIS MONTH WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE BRAVO GLOVES FROM HIGHLANDER
23 VIPER TACTICAL
VIPER TACTICAL HAVE REALLY BEEN CHURNING THE PRODUCTS OUT RECENTLY. THIS MONTH WE CHECK OUT THE VIPER ELITE JACKET!
25 AIMPOINT
FOLLOWING ON FROM OUR LOOK AT TRIJICON, THIS MONTH WE LOOK AT THE HISTORY OF AIMPOINT
28 WALKING WITH THE WOUNDED
GET BEHIND OUR WOUNDED WARRIORS THIS CHRISTMAS WITH WALKING WITH THE WOUNDED, FOR A GREAT CAUSE THAT WE’RE RIGHT BEHIND!
28
30 CENTREFOLD!
GET SOME RAIDER GOODNESS ON YOUR WALL!
32 BOOK REVIEW
THIS MONTH WE LOOK TAKE A LOOK AT THE WORKS OF DON MCCULLIN THROUGH HIS SELF TITLED BOOK
37 STOCKING FILLERS!
IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN! BAG A CHRISTMAS BARGAIN WITH RAIDER AS WE LOOK AT SOME OF OUR FAVOURITE PRODUCTS OF THIS YEAR
42 BAGGED UP!
FOLLOWING ON FROM OUR LOOK AT BAGS. THIS MONTH - WILSPORT.
44 ADRENALINE
THE THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE - ARE YOU UP FOR IT?!
47 DIRECT ACTION
OUR MONTHLY LOOK AT WHAT OUR ARMED FORCES ARE DOING ACROSS THE GLOBE
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THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE
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C H E C K
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R AIDER NE W S E XCLUSIVE NE WS FROM AROUND THE GL OBE - E XCLUSIVE NE WS
NEWS H&K MP-5A5 GETS A FACELIFT!
The MP-5A5 has just undergone what Heckler & Koch are referring to as it’s Mid-Life Improvement, essentially updating the previous platform with some modest, but essential changes. This Mid-Life Improvement has seen the MP-5A5 see some changes aesthetically as opposed to mechanically, with a new three position collapsible stock, the Modular Slim Line Handguard and Mounting Rail with STANAG 4694 Profile. All three of these items can be retrofitted to existing MP-5s as well, so expect to see MP-5s across the world rocking this subtle, yet new facelift in the very near future.
FN HERSHEL PREVIEW THEIR NEW 7.62X39 SCAR
Many thought the AK compatibility requirement for the SOF Combat Assault Rifle had fallen off the table. Not true. Rather, USSOCOM initially concentrated in the impending need for 5.56 and 7.62 NATO variants. Now, FN has built a 7.62×39 version of the Combat Assault Rifle to fulfil a requirement. This version of the SCAR incorporates a different barrel, bolt, lower receiver and an AK style magazine release, as well as a different gas regulator. with the CAR contract entering its second five years, you’ll start to see these models hitting the field as a reliable alternative to battlefiled pickup AKs.
HECKLER & K KOCH OCH
GLOCK DONATES 100K TO SPECIAL OPERATIONS WARRIOR FOUNDATION This month has seen a lot of high profile news in regards to helping veterans in need, and this story is no different. GLOCK, Inc., donated $100k to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation (SOWF). The presentation ceremony took place at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) trade show. GLOCK has donated $1 million to the foundation since 2005. “For a decade, GLOCK has supported the SOWF in their efforts to provide for the education of children of special operations personnel who have lost their lives in service of our country,” said Josh Dorsey, GLOCK, Inc. Vice President. “We honor the fallen by providing for those they leave behind.” The funds collected by the SOWF are used primarily to provide for financial assistance for post-secondary education of the surviving children. It also provides for academic as well as family counseling. Attending the ceremony was scholarship recipient Dalia Munoz. Munoz, who lost her father, Army SFC Pedro Munoz, 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), in 2005, while he was deployed to Afghanistan. Miss Munoz graduated from Davidson College in 2012 and now works as a student counselor at Meredith College in North Carolina.
MALA FOR VETS 22 DAY CHALLENGE
Twenty-two veterans commit suicide everyday. For the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country, one is too many, let alone twenty-two. In an effort to elevate the social conversation around veteran suicide, while also de-stigmatizing PTSD, and reframing the benefits of yoga and meditation, Combat Flip Flops and nearly
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20 other veteran and non-veteran owned businesses are joining MalaforVets’ #22adaychallenge. MalaforVets was established in 2012 by Air Force veteran, Defense Information School instructor, and combat correspondent Chris Eder. Chris began practicing yoga in 1999 and started teaching in 2007. Through yoga, Chris found enormous benefits to his mental, spiritual, and physical capabilities and has made it his mission to share these experiences with other veterans. He teaches several yoga classes each week and offers free classes to vets using the
Mindful Yoga Therapy principals. The goal of the #22adaychallenge is to raise awareness and funds for Save A Warrior and Mindful Yoga Therapy. Participants are encouraged to post an image on Instagram of them doing the daily pose with the #22adaychallenge hashtag. Each day, a random person participating will be selected to win a prize from one of the veteran-owned sponsors. The campaign will run Nov. 1-22, 2015. For more information, please head over to w w w.malafor vet s .org
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NE WS FROM AROUND THE GL OBE - E XCLUSIVE NE WS FROM AROUND THE GL OBE LUSIVE NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE - EXCLUSIVE NEWS FROM ARO THE DUCHESS OPENS NEW PM REVEALS MEASURES HOME OF KING’S TROOPVISIT INTHE LATEST AFGHAN er Rememb your is R a i d e ra z i n e . mag w us kno S o l e t u’r e u p t o o y t a h r w e w h e r e vr e ! you a
AS THE MONTHS PASS, WE HERE AT RAIDER GET THE OPPORTUNITY TO SEE AND TEST KIT BEFORE THE GENERAL PUBLIC EVEN SEE OR HEAR ABOUT IT. RAIDER WATCH WILL BE YOUR GO TO PLACE TO The Duchess of Cornwall opened the new Woolwich home of The King’sYOU Troop Royal Artillery GET THE LATEST ON GEAR, GIVING ANHorse IDEA in and visit unveiled a plaque to the commemorate the David changeCameron of the name of the new barracks, OnMarch his latest to Afghanistan, Prime Minister has announced a packagefrom of ON WHAT TO KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR! Napier Lines to King George VI Lines. measures to provide a significant boost to the British military campaign. Both UK troops and the
The Regiment from theirwill barracks St Johns Woodfunding in February this year, having been Afghan Nationalmoved Security Forces benefitinfrom increased and state of the art equipment. stationed there for over 200 years. The new state of the art facilities house 120 horses and 150 The Prime Minister announced: soldiers and cost £16.5 million. ✪To £33.1 millionthe for visit the development of the Afghan in 2010/11; including building celebrate to the new state-of-the artNational facilities,Police the Duchess toured the forge, seven police stations addition to viewed the two aUK-funded policeof stations opened in Helmand last month. veterinary centre andinstables, and demonstration 12 horses exercising the Gun ✪ £135 million to carry double Remotely Piloted System (RPAS). Carriages, which 13Reaper pounder guns which wereAircraft first used in the first world war. The carriages are used to fire the guns during The Queen’s birthday parade, State Visits and Remembrance Accompanied by the Chief of the Defence Staff, General Sir David Richards, the Prime Minister arrived Sunday. at Warson Camp Bastion Helmand province, then travelled the Main Operating Base in Lashkar Gah for Brands,inofficial licensee of Reebok tactical to footwear, The Duchess visited the officers’ mess at the start of the visit, to board a horse-drawn open-top a briefing by Commander TaskZigKick Force Helmand, Brigadier James introduces the as new Reebok Tactical line of 8-inch andChiswell 6-inch on the progress made by the carriage, known a Sociable Carriage. Provincial Reconstruction to drive social, economic and political development in the area. boots. Built to meet the Team extreme law enforcement During her visit the Duchess also demands presentedofAfghanistan service medals to four soldiers from the He later met soldiers who crewZigKick and maintain the newly operational Warthog armoured vehicle. professionals, new Reebok line is engineered King’s Troop whothe have just returned fromTactical frontline duties. Visiting the Helmand Policeand Training Centre on the outskirts of Lashkar Gah to present graduation for performance, comfort, durability. Reebok’s ZigTech, an Before departing the Duchess unveiled a plaque to commemorate the opening of the King George certificates to technology newly qualified Afghanbypolicemen; he revealed the extra £33.1 million resources developed Reebok fitness experts,that VI elite Linesfitness and Commanding Officer Major Mark Edward presented Her Royal Highness with a specially would help build or refurbish 48 police stations, including seven to be before spring 2011. is a unique foam designed to had been used to fire opened engraved andzigzag polished 13 midsole pound gun shell which the Royal Salute to mark the These improvements to essential infrastructure, in addition to more resources for training, will flexoflike anMajesty athleticThe shoe, absorbDiamond heel shock, start Her Queen’s Jubilee on 6 February 2012. help Afghan National Police appear both more visible and more professional to the Afghan andthe provide energy return under the most population, them to carry out their role more effectively. punishing enabling conditions.
REEBOK
INTRODUCES ZIGKICK TACTICAL FOOTWEAR LINE
ForMinister more information on the Reebok AFGHANS OUTGUN THE BRITISH Prime Cameron said: Tactical line,will visitbereebokwork.com. “I ZigKick know the thoughts of home and of loved ones; I would like personally to thank everyone IN FRIENDLY CRICKET serving A in Afghanistan for the sacrifice they are making. I say to them, itCLASH is great work you are doing
and we must continue to do all we can to help you endure. Afghan the British Army for six when they and met what for a two-day clashgrounds in the heart “This cricketers is my sixthknocked visit to Afghanistan, to Helmand Province, I see is some for of Helmand Province. The amount of ground that’s covered by the forces is up, the amount of markets cautious optimism. A British team, across alland three branches of thethat armed serving on Operation that are open, theselected numberfrom of provincial district governors areforces in place, the number of Herrick a team from of thesecurity; Afghan there National a team improvement.” of Afghan interpreters in a schools 15, thattook are on open, the level are Army lots of(ANA) signsand of positive two-day seriesAssault of 20/20 cricketLight matches in Camp Bastion The Warrior Systems Assault Rig (LAR) is in front of over 1,500 ANA spectators. The BritishtoForces Afghanistan team trained for days designed be a lightweight simplistic chest rig. The to prepare for the game against the avid Afghan cricketers, and thedonning three sides each up beforehand in the cricket nets at the ANA’s Camp LAR allows easy and sized doffing andother designed with Shorabak, Camp Bastion. But when retention. the matches started the impressive Afghan teams took kangaroonext styletomag pouches with bungee British Forces Afghanistan to the cleaners, with victories going to both the ANA and interpreter sides. The LAR will hold up to 5 Mags and has MOLLE The British team were all out for 75 versus the ANA team’s score of 165, much to the rapture of webbing on the front for attaching a wide selection of the audience of Afghan soldiers who flooded onto the pitch to congratulate their colleagues. The pouches. The kangaroo style pouches aredelivering lined withsecurity in Afghanistan have traded in their old Soldiers from the 2nd Regiment British team fared no Royal betterTank against the team of Afghan interpreters, scoring 169 for seven while the Posi vehicles Grip Nonand Slipupgraded Fabric fortodurability and retention. Viking something even better, the mighty Warthog. interpreters managed 183 all out. The Light Assault Rig is currently available in MultiCamtowith 2 RTR will use Warthog’s outstanding manoeuvrability bringthe firepower and out armoured support On the second day, the two Afghan sides met in a play-off, ANA coming victorious in the final. and matches Coyote. wherever and whenever theyoccasion are called reflect new vehicle at their disposal, 2 RTR The were a huge forupon. both To sides. Thethe ANA team played in blue-and-red uniforms All Warrior Assault Systems products are made from soldiers in theatre are now known as “Warthog Group” – and they are already building a reputation as presented at the beginning of the genuine U.S. Mil materials and hardware. one of the most mobile units under British command in Helmand. match on behalf ofSpec the ground Helmand The Warthog is a relatively light but robust tracked vehicle. It consists of 2 cabs: the front cab houses Provincial Reconstruction Team, the driver and commander and is armed with a heavy weapons turret. The rear cab is for infantry. which helps with development The new has greater armour protection and more power than its predecessor, but still projects invehicle the region. The British retains the superb cross-country team played in ‘whites’ from the performance for which the Viking was known. AbleCricket to operate in the most diverse and demanding environments, including moving through water, Army Association. climbing steep slopes and drainage ditches the new Warthog provides troops with high levels One of the spectators incrossing the of protection whilst giving commanders the flexibility to operate in areas where the terrain and local stands was ANA Corps Commander infrastructure mean more agile vehicle is needed. General Malouk, the amost-senior Corporal Tristan ‘Tiny’ Cordery Afghan National Army soldier in (35), from Fowey in Cornwall, is a veteran of two tours of Iraq and one ofProvince. Kosovo, and has served in Afghanistan on prior deployments. He has now returned to Helmand Team Wendy their new X2 Scalable Helmet Afghanistan as unveiled a Warthog commander with 2 RTR. He said: Prototype thisbetween years’ AUSA, held in Washington. “We canischoose the heavy, grenade or general purpose machine guns. This gives me as the “There aat very good Warthog flexibility to tailor my armament to the mission, and that’s a vital capability Whencommander yougoing first on, seethe X2 Scalable Helmet competition atheir in Prototype order to succeed the complicated environment of Afghanistan. it looksin pretty much like their Exfil Ballistic competition played in friendship. thisthat firepower comes good armour. The Warthog can take rocket-propelled grenade hits, butgood without rails. out, they’ve integrated a whole It With is BritishTurns and Afghan machine gun firetech and has the better protection from IEDs. bunch are of new into design. soldiers able to spend quality This combination of firepower protection is what us Tankies are looking for in a vehicle. We’re Without going into too muchand detail, the X2 looks time working together.” ready to go out the least, RTR mentality apply in support of ourtoguys with boots interesting towith say the and couldand very wellarmoured be a hugetactics innovation in regards protective onheadwear. the ground.” We will certainly be following this up with a full feature in the future!
WARRIOR ASSAULT SYSTEMS
LIGHT ASSAULT RIG
ROYAL TANK REGIMENT UNLEASH NEW VEHICLES
TEAM WENDY
UNVEILS X2 SCALABLE HELMET PROTOTYPE
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.22 UPGRADE UPGRADING THE RUGER 10/22 RIFLE
AFFECTIONATELY KNOWN AS THE BARBIE DOLL OF THE FIREARMS INDUSTRY, FEW COULD ARGUE THE 10/22 CARBINE RIFLE DESIGNED BY STURM, RUGER & CO. IS PERHAPS THE MOST POPULAR .22 RIFLE EVER DEVELOPED. SINCE ITS ENTRY ONTO THE MARKET IN 1964, THE 10/22 HAS BEEN A STAPLE OF THE FIREARMS CULTURE FROM BEGINNING SHOOTERS TO THE MOST EXPERIENCED MARKSMEN IN THE FIELD
STOCK TAKE
This stock accepts the standard pencil thin factory Ruger 10/22 barrels as well as aftermarket 0.920 inch bull barrels by means of a reversible barrel tray that can be adjusted to fit the required clearance. This is another feature that allows the stock to grow with the shooter’s needs and preferences to remain viable.
These rifles are often bought and rarely resold with a preference to keep them in one’s personal collection for a lifetime. Unfortunately as with anything after time, even the corner stone of one’s firearm collection needs a little upgrading and this generally leads to a whirlwind of discovering new products on the market and often not knowing what’s junk and what a good investment is. Although Ruger’s little rifle is a great shooting firearm straight out of the box, there are several aftermarket accessories available to turn your average stock rifle into a high-end tack driver for competition, hunting or just stepping up your plinking game. The rock solid action and reliable rotary feed system of the 10/22 action makes it a great starting place for any custom build. In this article we will take a look at key areas in which you can vastly improve your stock Ruger 10/22 using simple, well made and reliable drop in and bolt on parts. pas.
By Tram
■ BARREL When it comes to rifles, I think we can all agree, the key to accuracy is having a good barrel. While the factory barrel is great for plinking and all around field craft, its “minute of squirrel” accuracy may not be as precise as you desire. I reached out the great folks at Volquartsen custom and asked them to recommend a handy bull barrel with a threaded target muzzle for use with a suppressor. To
our delight, Volquartsen provided us with a beautiful stainless steel “drop-in” 0.920 inch bull barrel which continues year after year to set the standard in accuracy and performance for rimfire barrels in the industry. Retailing for around $330, the barrel alone runs more than most complete rifles, but none can touch the Volquartsen’s accuracy. This is the biggest investment you can make in which you truly get what you pay for.
The Volquartsen barrel features a match bore and chamber dimensions that vary no more than +/-0.0001” from breech to muzzle. The barrel is digitally measured and inspected as the barrel shank is machined 0.0025” oversized to create an extremely tight fit into the factory receiver. This prevents the barrel from canting once the locking block is installed. When it was time to mount the barrel to the receiver, I found out the hard way just how much .0025” can make a difference. As it is shipped, the barrel will not fit into the receiver without hydraulic press or some other source of greater than human force. In order to properly mount the barrel without damage, I had to slightly heat the receiver in the oven to around 110 degrees to cause the metal’s molecules to expand and then quickly lock it into a padded vise. I then removed the barrel from the freezer, where it had been chilling down for approximately 2 hours to slightly shrink the metal’s molecules enough to drive the “drop-in” barrel to the receiver with a rubber mallet without much trouble.
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Moving past the install process, the barrel looked great. The bolt and extractor mated up perfectly when closed and allowed the factory box magazines to feed the chamber cleanly. With just the action and barrel together, I could already tell this rebuild would be something special!
release button found on any 10/22 older than about 2 years. With the flick of a finger, the shooter can now release the magazine for faster releases while not even having to change their shooting grip. Retailing for around $240, the Timney Trigger is a great option for confidently breaking those longer precision shots.
■ TRIGGER
■ STOCK
Next in line for an upgrade was the trigger. As even the most diehard Ruger 10/22 rifle fan will tell you, the factory 6lb trigger leaves much to be desired. While Ruger’s new line of BX-22 drop-in triggers are a huge improvement over the factory original, I decided to give a shout out to some old friends at Timney Triggers and asked about their own new line of 10/22 drop-in trigger kits. Recently Timney has figured out the mystery of the rough and heavy Ruger triggers and gave all their fans the ultimate kit. Along with being a much lighter and crisper trigger pull coming in at only 2.5lbs, this kit comes complete with an easy to reach magazine drop lever. This lever solves the awkward magazine
Just in time to start this project, MagPul decided to release their X-22 Hunter synthetic stock built specifically for the 10/22 platform. This stock is designed to enhance the angle in which the shooter mounts the rifle. With fingers crossed and a quick email to their marketing department in hopes of scoring one of these new stocks, I received a reply within hours that a stock was on the way for Testing and Evaluation! Upon its arrival, I took the stock out of the box for inspection. The ergonomics and light weight of the reinforced polymer constructed stock were a pleasant change from traditional 10/22 stocks I am accustom to. The drop grip and removable spacers allow for dialing in the
perfect fit to the shooters body. Each spacer offers a full ½ inch of adjustment to range from a minimum length of pull of 12.5 inches to a full 14.5 inch measurement. An additional riser kit is available for raising the check pad height to the needed level of your scope in ¼ inch increments with each spacer. The X-22 also offers push-button QD swivel compatibility in rear with optional Sling Mount Kits, left and right 1 ¼ inch Footman’s loops and a sturdy rubber butt pad that holds the rifle snug into your shoulder while shooting regardless of the garment you are wearing in between. After shouldering the stock back and forth several times, I rolled the stock over and noticed a small dimple in the stock under the forearm where a sling stud traditionally mounts. I asked the folks at MagPul about this and received confirmation the stock was dimpled for the end user to drill and install a sling stud of their choice. In the future, this may change to a MagPul factory option already installed. It took a grand total of 2 minutes to drill this dimple out and mount a standard sling stud into the stock in order to install a bi-pod. Since obtaining my production stock sample, MagPul has now listed this among its advertised features. This stock accepts the standard pencil thin factory Ruger 10/22 barrels as well as aftermarket 0.920 inch bull barrels by means of a reversible barrel tray that can be adjusted to fit the required clearance. This is just another feature that allows the stock to grow with the shooter’s needs and preferences to remain viable. Helping bring the classic 10/22 platform into the modern era, the X-22 stock offers M-LOK™
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It is no exaggeration this rifle is now accurate enough to split playing cards in half by shooting them on their edge, because it has been done more than once at this point! This rifle more than satisfies the seasoned shooter’s “itch” to have a tack driving tool at his or her disposal. If you have the need for trick shooting, picking the wings off flies at 50 yards or just head shooting rodents around the yard, take a minute to check out all the great manufacturers mentioned and try out some of their products for yourself.
slots on the forend’s sides and bottom for a wide variety of accessory and sling mounting options. Retailing for $139.95, the MagPul stock currently comes in four color choices, Black, Olive Drab Green, Stealth Grey and Flat Dark Earth which match perfectly with any of MagPul’s other great shooting gear and accessories.
■ BIPOD As a fan of pushing my .22 rifle’s effective distance and accuracy, the addition of a bipod was a no brainer. While it’s definitely not needed to add extra mass to the forward end of the rifle for stability, it is a great way to steady the rifle when breaking a long range shot. One of my all-time favorite bipods that I like to use is a light weight, adjustable Harris-style design from Caldwell. Ranging from 6 – 9 inches, the bipod is small, compact and adds as little weight as possible and still have a great shooting brace. While the original Harris bipod is a rock solid mount, they can range as high as $100 or more depending on your model. The Caldwell product is well suited for the needs of a simple tack driving .22 rifle and can be found for as little as $40.
■ OPTICS Finally, we come to the subject of optics. While some may use the term “over scoped” at this point in the article, I have already stated, I like to be able to push the .22 platform out to around 100 yards for effective squirrel, opossum, raccoon and paper target eliminations. Taking this into consideration, choosing a 4-12x40 power scope was not quite a ridiculous gesture,
(remember, you can’t hit what you can’t see). The Diamondback series by Vortex offers excellent clarity and an easy to use Dead-Hold BDC (MOA). Mounted in a set of rock solid 1 inch steel rings by Weaver, the scope locked down perfectly and tracked well after sighting it in. The Diamondback offers ¼ MOA adjustment graduations and capped turrets to help prevent your zero from being inadvertently being knocked off zero in the field. The eye relief is very forgiving at around 3.1 inches and quickly draws the eye into the reticle. At 17.2 ounces, the entire scope adds hardly any noticeable weight to your overall rifle package. Ranging in price from around $300-$349, I opted for the higher priced AO model for the ability to “fine tune” my longer shots a bit more on small targets than the standard offering. I found this scope to be an excellent price point for the performance you get out of it on a precision .22 rifle. I have often recommended this same scope to friends looking for a budget friendly scope option on larger platform rifles as well due to its tough “bulletproof” construction and excellent customer service.
■ BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER After installing all the bells and whistles, it was time to field test this small fortune investment. I met up with Trent Boatner, Range Director at the beautiful OK Corral Gun Club in Okeechobee, Florida to put the upgraded Ruger through its paces on one of their many unique shooting bays. Within a just a few clean breaking shots, my mind was far from the subject of cost. Once I sighted in my scope, the shot groupings started
shrinking to the size of a dime at 15 and 25 yards on the steel plates. Each target was crisp and clear looking through the very forgiving Vortex optic as I pressed a Timney trigger that rivaled even my best large caliber hunting rifle. With and without the use of my Gemtech Outback II suppressor, the rifle had no recoil or shift in impact. The complete package balanced very comfortably in an offhand shooting position with its new barrel. The addition of the bipod provided for rock solid platform for bench shooting as well, which later helped shots reach out to the 100 yard mark later in the “break in” process. There was no question about it during testing, the rebuilt Ruger 10/22 clearly shot as good as it looked! While I would not do this to all my 10/22 rifles in my collection (mainly due to cost), I will definitely be taking various aspects of this build and incorporating them into the other rifles over time. It is no exaggeration this rifle is now accurate enough to split playing cards in half by shooting them on their edge, because it has been done more than once at this point! This rifle more than satisfies the seasoned shooter’s “itch” to have a tack driving tool at his or her disposal. If you have the need for trick shooting, picking the wings off flies at 50 yards or just head shooting rodents around the yard, take a minute to check out all the great manufacturers mentioned and try out some of their products for yourself. A special thanks to Trent Boatner and all the extremely helpful folks at okcorralgunclub.com for giving us the opportunity to enjoy a beautiful afternoon at their facility.
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SURVIVAL: BASIC SURVIVING THE GREAT OUTDOORS - BASIC
SURVIVAL INSTINCTS - FOOD & WATER
EATING IN THE OUTDOORS WHEN IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS, THERE CAN’T BE ENOUGH EMPHASIS PLACED ON STAYING BOTH FED AND HYDRATED. BUT HOW EXACTLY DO YOU STAY FED AND HYDRATED WHEN YOU DON’T HAVE ACCESS TO THE USUAL COOKING AND DRINKING UTENSILS YOU ENJOY WHILST IN THE LUXURY OF YOUR OWN HOME? THIS MONTH WE LOOK AT THE BASICS, MAKING SURE YOU’RE EQUIPPED FOR YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE.
I think as grown adults we’re all aware of the need to eat and drink. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, 2 litres of water a day, 5-a-day… All the necessary stuff to make sure your body is running efficiently. However, a lot of this becomes troublesome when you remove the use of a kitchen and place an individual in the great outdoors. Sure, you can prepare in advance, but the more you pack, the more it weighs and I’m sure you’re all aware of the need to pack lightly when entering the kingdom of nature. Food is a given, and whilst we may all want to be expert trackers and kill, skin and cook our own prey you’ll want to pack enough to keep you going for the extent of your trip, because quite frankly we’re not all going to become Bear Grylls overnight. But what kind of food do you need to pack? And more importantly how exactly are you going to cook it? You’ve then got the issue of staying hydrated, because you certainly can’t pack more than a days worth of water in your pack. So how exactly do you go about surviving the great outdoors? Thankfully we’ve got a short list of crucial items in mind that may just be the difference between a fed, happy you and quite literally, death.
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ASIC SURVIVING THE GREAT OUTDOORS - BASIC SURVIVING
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RATION PACKS/MRES
Ration packs or MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat) are your first stop when it comes to staying fed in the outdoors. These meals were originally invented for use in wartime periods, giving soldiers an easily transportable source of food until fresh food can be delivered. Over the years this source of food has started to be supplied to civilians as it is simply put a perfect food source for the outdoorsman or woman. Each meal provides the individual with 1,000+ calories and can be stored for up to three years before being uneatable. What makes ration packs the perfect source of food whilst in the outdoors is the fact that they are cooked in the packaging supplied, and only require boiling water to eat. Ration packs can be purchased from a range of different sources, with both military and civilian options available to the general public. Some of our favourites are the UK 24-hour packs which provide breakfast, lunch, dinner and a range of snacks for the day, as well as the US MREs which offer some of the best tasting single meals, and if you can get the Smarties cookie in your pack, you’re laughing!
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JETBOIL
The Jetboil is one item of kit you should never leave the house with, and I mean that literally… To the point that I personally have a spare sat in my car for emergencies. But what exactly is a Jetfoil, and what makes it a must have? Essentially a Jetboil is a quick and easy solution to provide yourself with boiling hot water. This process of boiling can be used to either make a hot drink, purify dirty water or to cook a ration pack. But what makes a Jetboil a better solution to your hot water needs than a normal gas stove or simply making your own fire? Well, ease. A Jetboil will boil water in just over 2 minutes, it’s a lot easier to store than a normal gas stove and it doesn’t require any fire making knowledge or materials. Simply put it together which requires screwing the gas tank into the bottom, and then light it! It really is that simple.
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PURIFICATION TABLETS
Being able to purify any source of water whilst in the outdoors is a big, big must and one of the easiest ways to do so is through water purification tablets. Most popular brands of water purification tablets are an iodine + tetraglycine hydroperiodide mixture. The iodine kills most, but not all of the most common pathogens present in natural fresh water sources, and is by no means a perfect solution in regards to purifying water, however it is a very cost effective way of doing so, and is also extremely easy to carry. One of the main issues with iodine based water purification is the aftertaste left by the iodine. One solution to this is to also pack some vitamin C tablets. The vitamin C will precipitate much of the iodine from your drinking source, however make sure you leave your water for a good 30 minutes to 2 hours dependant on how dirty the water is you’re planning on drinking. Ideally the best way to use said water purification tablets is to first boil your water, allow it to cool down and then use the purification tablet. This way you will kill many pathogens in the boiling process, and then any lingering pathogens will be dealt with by the purification tablet.
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LIFESTRAW
Another alternative to water purification tablets is a handy little contraption known as a LifeStraw. Essentially a LifeStraw is a high-tech straw which allows you to drink from any contaminated water source, and therefore lends itself to being the perfect emergency water purification device. A LifeStraw is good for up to 1,000 litres of contaminated water. The LifeStraw contains a hollow fibre ultrafiltration device, most commonly found in industrial water treatment plants. This ultrafiltration device makes use of hollow fibres that essentially resemble spaghetti, but much thinner. Each fibre has pores in its walls with a diameter of 0.2 microns, which is five hundred times smaller than than the diameter of a singular human hair. When water is forced through the fibres, only clean water can pass through these pores, blocking all of the harmful bacteria, parasites and dirt from reaching the user. And what’s better is that every LifeStraw bought allows the company to provide LifeStraw’s to 3rd world countries where they have nothing to drink but contaminated water.
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GLOVES ON TEST
HIGHLANDER: BRAVO GLOVES
BR AVO GLOVES
FINDING A GOOD PAIR OF GLOVES THAT SUIT YOU IS SOMEWHAT OF A HINDERANCE AT TIMES. WITH SO MANY DIFFERENT PAIRS ON THE MARKET IN VARIOUS DIFFERENT STYLES IT CAN BE A HARD TASK PICKING THE RIGHT PAIR FOR YOU. OVER THE NEXT FEW MONTHS WE WILL BE SHOWCASING A RANGE OF DIFFERENT GLOVES GIVING YOU THE LOWDOWN ON WHAT’S HOT, AND WHAT’S NOT!
HIGHLANDER BRAVO GLOVES The Bravo Gloves from Highlander are modelled on the ever popular Oakley SI Assault Tactical Gloves in the sense that they are a pair of tactical gloves with protected knuckles, however whilst the Oakley SI’s make use of carbon fibre, the Bravo favours a hard leather. The Bravo Glove makes use of a range of different materials in fact. The main body of the glove is made with genuine cowhide soft leather, and has rubber re-enforcement on the backside of the fingers and on the palm to aid both grip and protection. Doing so however makes the glove lose an awful lot of dexterity. However, by the rugged look and feel of the glove, we’d say the Bravo Glove is more about protection than dexterity. Following on with the point regarding protection, the gloves also make use of Nomex materials, which provide the gloves with brilliant protection against high temperatures, and also makes them resistant
to flames - always a bonus. They are also re-enforced with kevlar, making them highly resistant to both cuts and tears. In regards to the knuckle protection, we found it to sit a tad off, finding the protection sitting at the top of the knuckles as opposed to covering them. We’d be interested to see if this was a isolated finding or whether the protection was intended to sit as so. Apart from that though, the gloves seemed relatively comfortable to wear, and with some alterations to the knuckle protection, they would definitely be a solid glove. One other gripe in regards to the Bravo Glove is the Velcro wrist strap. Whilst it does it’s job, it could certainly be revised, as currently it is a little loose on those with small wrists. That being said though this is a very minor problem as the gloves hug the hand well and are unlikely to fall off due to this, but at the same time you’d expect better from a glove that retails at over £30.00.
£34.99 016
The sizing seemed a little off as well, with the user usually wearing a ‘Small’, and this goes from your average winter gloves all the way through to various brands of tactical gloves, however with the Bravo the ‘Medium’ was more fitting. Again, a trivial issue, but one that should definitely be taken into account when purchasing. Overall the Bravo glove is a solid addition to the Highlander range, providing a great deal of protection for the end user. With a few very small revisions in design, the Bravo Glove could definitely take the world by storm, but is still an admirable effort and a highly protective glove.
PRICE: £34.99 FROM: WWW.HIGHLANDER-OUTDOOR.COM
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DEPLOYMENT ESSENTIALS
HELIKON-TEX UNDER OUR S
HELIKON
HELIKON
LEVEL 5 SOFT SHELL JACKET
The LVL 5 Soft Shell Jacket is based on U.S. Army specification for III Generation APCU (Advanced Protective Combat Uniform). The LVL 5 offers light wind and rain protection combined with moisture management properties. Relaxed fit works perfectly with insulation layers underneath. Hood stuffed in collar can be easily rolled out and adapted to secure head and face from weather elements. Velcro panels on chest and biceps allow ID tags and patch personalization. LVL 5 is highly compressible and lightweight, making it perfect to use as a stowaway solution in unstable weather regions, or to wear as normal in wet weather. FEATURES: ■ High performance / breathability ratio ■ Full front neck-to-waist two-way YKK® zipper with wind flap ■ Lightweight and compressible ■ Foldable, adjustable hood ■ Armpit ventilation zippers ■ ID Velcro panels on biceps and chest ■ Bicep pockets ■ Slide-through double zipper back pocket ■ Outer chest pockets ■ Chest rank tag ■ Reinforced elbows ■ Adjustable cuffs ■ Elastic corded bottom with quick-locks ■ YKK® zippers
£58.00
IN ASSOCIATION WITH MILITARY 1ST OVER THE YEARS WE’VE HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF WORKING WITH SOME OF THE WORLDS BIGGEST TACTICAL BRANDS AND HAVE HAD A LOT OF TACTICAL GEAR COME THROUGH THE OFFICE FOR REVIEW. DEPLOYMENT ESSENTIALS HAS OFTEN BEEN THE CULMINATION OF THIS, FEATURING A GREAT DEAL OF THIS KIT, BUT NEVER HAVE WE FOCUSED ON A SINGLE BRAND, SHOWING YOU THE VERY BEST PRODUCTS THEY HAVE TO OFFER. Polish based Helikon-Tex was originally founded just over a decade ago, establishing themselves as a highly thought of military surplus store. However, due to changing trends and demand from the market in the mid-nineties, Helikon-Tex were forced to change their direction, and in 1999 they began manufacturing a range of military and paramilitary products, with the sole purpose of developing top quality gear for it’s end user. Fast forward to 2015 and Helikon-Tex are one of the worlds most known and sought after military brand, producing a wide range of uniforms, tactical clothing, backpacks, boots and various other equipment and have gained recognition amongst various Armed Forces around the world as well as Policemen, Law Enforcement Officers, and survival enthusiasts all around the world. Throughout the years we have tested and reviewed a wide range of Helikon-Tex gear, and have always been impressed with the amazing quality and attention to detail shown. And this month we will be showcasing some of our favourite product from the brand, giving you the lowdown on why your next purchase should be a of the Polish persuasion! - Prices may vary dependant on colour/camouflage.
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AVAILABLE COLOURS: POLISH WOODLAND, POLISH DESERT, ACU, COYOTE, CAMOGROM, MTP AND ALPHA GREEN
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HELIKON
HELIKON
The LVL 5 Soft Shell Pants are based on U.S. Army specification for III Generation APCU (Advanced Protective Combat Uniform). The LVL 5 offers light wind and rain protection combined with moisture management properties. Relaxed fit works perfectly with insulation layers underneath. The LVL 5 Pants are of a loose cut for maximum range of anatomic movement. LVL 5 is highly compressible and lightweight, making it perfect to use as a stowaway solution in unstable weather regions, or to wear as normal in wet weather.
The Patriot Heavy Fleece Jacket is designed to be used in tactical situations in difficult weather conditions. The jacket features an adjustable hood, useful in harsh weather conditions as protection against wind and various weather elements, as well as a set of pockets to carry essential equipment. Elbows are strengthened for additional durability. Patriot is a versatile and durable upper apparel available in both camouflage and block coloured versions. The jacket is suitable for both Military and Law Enforcement users.
Keeping the impression of casual pants, the UTP® provide load bearing capabilities and comfort typical for strictly utilitarian constructions. Designed for Law Enforcement operators, the Urban Tactical Pants® enable the user to carry a range of essential equipment around the hip and thigh line. Low-profile pocket setup keeps the EDC gear and ammo close to body’s center of gravity, which, combined with stretchable fabric, leads to fluent and quick tactical movements. Furthermore, all these solutions give the outcome of clear and useful product for concealed carry tasks. Available in two material options, for hot and moderate climates.
LVL 5 SOFT SHELL PANTS
FEATURES: ■ High performance / breathability ratio ■ Lightweight and compressible ■ Elastic waist ■ Two front pockets ■ Two thigh cargo pockets with double closure (snap & Velcro) and drawstring retention ■ Side YKK® zipper openings ■ Calf-high side-zippers ■ Adjustable hook-and-loop trouser leg cuffs ■ Ankle reinforcements ■ YKK® zippered fly opening
PATRIOT HEAVY FLEECE JACKET
FEATURES: ■ High insulation ■ Full front neck-to-waist two-way YKK® zipper with wind flap and chin guard ■ Integrated, adjustable hood ■ Bicep pockets with Velcro panels ■ Armpit ventilation zippers ■ Slide-through double zipper back pocket ■ Outer chest pockets with wiring eyelets, D-Rings and device slots ■ Left forearm pocket ■ Reinforced elbows ■ Adjustable hook and loop cuffs ■ Elastic corded bottom with quick-locks
raider recommend ✪ ✪ ✪ ✪ ✪s!
URBAN TACTICAL PANTS
FEATURES: ■ Elastic waist with Velcro fastener ■ Key loops, D-ring or karabiner compatible ■ Two front pockets with strengthened edges ■ Two wide back pockets with easy access ■ Two composed slim back pockets ■ Two angled, internal waistband pockets ■ Two thigh cargo pockets zippered with YKK® ■ Two Velcro flapped thigh pockets for Smartphone device or AR magazines ■ Classic jeans ‘neck’ shape ■ The leg in the rear part is profiled – it is divided and connected with profiling pleat under the knee ■ Reinforced knees ■ Cuffs with cord channels ■ YKK® zippered fly
£54.00
£55.00 £49.30
AVAILABLE COLOURS: POLISH WOODLAND, POLISH DESERT, ACU, COYOTE, CAMOGROM, MTP AND ALPHA GREEN
AVAILABLE COLOURS: BLACK, OLIVE GREEN, POLISH WOODLAND, COYOTE, CAMOGROM, FOLIAGE GREEN, FLECKTARN, JUNGLE GREEN, MTP, ALPHA GREEN
AVAILABLE COLOURS: BLACK, COYOTE, KHAKI, JUNGLE GREEN, DENIM BLUE, OLIVE DRAB, AND NAVY BLUE (PICTURED HERE)
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HELIKON-TEX UNDER OUR S
HELIKON
HELIKON
HELIKON
The Outdoor Tactical Pant is a newly introduced variant of Helicon-Tex’s signature UTP® pants. These are slightly redesigned and feature new, highly stretchable fabric that performs very well in outdoor activities. Lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking and extremely comfortable – yet maintaining all the utility features of the original, the OTP® are soon to become your favourite trekking pants.
This is the base insulation layer from HelikonTex’s Urban Tactical Line®, dedicated for wearing in conjunction with outer soft or hard shells or as separate layer. Lightweight and packable, the Alpha Jacket can be compressed and easily transported in a backpack or separate pouch, providing immediate warmth in low temperature conditions. Mesh lining improves pleasant handling and skin comfort.
Lightweight and breathable upper apparel, designated to be worn underneath body armour. Flexible torso part does not wrinkle and protects the skin against irritation caused by tactical vests/rigs. Shoulder and sleeve parts are covered with camouflage and made of strengthened material to maintain proper signature and durability. Hard, removable elbow pads provide protection against impact.
OUTDOOR TACTICAL PANTS
FEATURES: ■ Elastic waist with Velcro fastener ■ Key loops, D-ring or karabiner compatible ■ Two mesh front pockets ■ Two mesh wide back pockets with easy access. Adapted for dump mag use ■ Two composed slim back pockets for folding knives, flashlights, pistol magazines. ■ Two mesh thigh cargo pockets zippered ■ Elastic bands in cargo pockets for spare magazines and first aid equipment etc ■ Two Velcro flapped thigh pockets ■ Classic jeans ‘neck’ shape ■ The leg in the rear part is profiled – it is divided and connected with profiling pleat under the knee ■ Reinforced knees with internal kneepad compartments ■ Cuffs with cord channels ■ YKK® zippered fly
ALPHA GRID FLEECE JACKET
FEATURES: ■ Stand-up collar ■ Full front neck-to-waist YKK® zipper ■ Two bottom side slash pockets with zipper ■ Chest pocket with wiring eyelet ■ Elastic cuffs ■ Elastic corded bottom with quick-locks
COMBAT SHIRT
FEATURES: ■ Breathable torso ■ Stand-up collar ■ Bicep pockets with ID Velcro panels ■ Forearm pockets ■ Elbow pad compartments (pads included) ■ Adjustable cuffs
£65.00
£47.00
£54.00
AVAILABLE COLOURS: SHADOW GREY, MUD BROWN
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AVAILABLE COLOURS: BLACK, COYOTE, OLIVE GREEN, FOLIAGE GREEN
COLOURS: BLACK, OLIVE, POLISH WOODLAND, DESERT, USMC DIGITAL WOODLAND, ACU, COYOTE, CAMOGRAM, MTP, A-TACS FG, A-TACS AU, PENCOTT GREENZONE
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HELIKON
HELIKON
The Husky Winter Tactical Jacket is an enhanced version of LVL 7 apparel. The construction is equipped with three ID panels that can be either hidden or exposed depending on situation. Composed Quick Side Access™ provides easy grab of pistol and other duty belt mounted gear. This jacket is adapted for Law Enforcement actions taken in harsh and extremely cold surroundings. The Husky Jacket is highly compressible, and can be stuffed in a pack or cargo pouch, without any damage. The Quick Side Access™ (QSA™) is a unique system that guarantees quick and comfortable access to all waist-mounted tactical accessories. Due to the ergonomic solutions applied in QSA™ system, you can reach for a gun, paralyzer or any other accessory in one smooth motion, which greatly increases your reaction time in emergency/life-threatening situations. Moreover, thanks to its civil appearances and adequate placement, Quick Side Access™ (QSA™) is perfectly suited for actions performed in urban surroundings.
The Raccoon is a lightweight backpack based on our experience gathered from previous designs. Its 20-liter capacity is optimal for EDC and basic tactical duties, when large backpack capacity is not required. The main compartment features hydration bladder pocket with numerous tube exits. RACCOON is also equipped with one external pocket, similar in size to the main compartment. It contains a simple organizer for carrying additional items. The backpack carrying system is enhanced with removable back stiffener and soft, comfortable shoulder straps. For heavy loads the simple, webbing hip belt distributes weight properly. The backpack covered with webbing compatible with MOLLE/PALS system. Shockcord allows attachment of additional equipment like jackets, sleeping mat etc.
Lightweight, rainproof and versatile, the Wombat Shoulder Bag is an adaptable grab-bag for any shooter, LE operator, or just for everyday use. Equipped with a set of internal compartments and Velcro spots, the bag allows the user to easily customize and personalize its layout and configuration to meet mission specifics and demands. WOMBAT can be carried with a standard grab handle or with a removable shoulder strap. The bag also features easy access zipper opening with complete cover option for additional weather and elements protection. Shoulder strap is adjustable and comes with non-slip pad. MOLLE/PALS system is sewn both on the outside and the inside for versatility and easy customization. Internal handles made of elastic bands also facilitate carrying rifle magazines.
HUSKY WINTER TACTICAL JACKET
FEATURES: ■ Keeps the user warm even when wet ■ Climashield® Apex™ insulation (100 g/m2 for body, 67 g/m2 for hood) ■ Full front neck-to-waist two-way YKK® zipper with wind flap and chin guard ■ Lightweight and compressible ■ Compression pack included ■ Helmet-compatible, foldable hood ■ Hidden ID panels for Law Enforcement ■ Outer chest pockets with D-Rings and slots ■ ‘Dry’ internal pockets for documents ■ Internal bottom pockets ■ Quick Side Access™ ■ Adjustable hook-and-loop cuffs ■ Elastic corded bottom with quick-locks ■ WooJin® buckles ■ YKK® zippers
RACCOON BACKPACK
FEATURES: ■ Two-way zipper closures ■ Main compartment features internal pockets ■ One external pocket with small organizer ■ Quick release shoulder straps ■ D-Ring attachment points ■ Side retention straps with buckles ■ Simple, detachable hip belt (4 cm wide) ■ Velcro panels for ID patches ■ MOLLE/PALS compatible ■ Shockcord allowing attachment of equipment
£139
WOMBAT SHOULDER BAG
FEATURES: ■ Zipper fastening with easy access ■ Buckle – fastened full cover for weather ■ Main compartment adapted for safe carrying of 10’’ notebook or tablet ■ Internal mesh pocket ■ Two Internal side pockets ■ Inner pocket with four compartments ■ Three exterior zipped pockets ■ Adjustable shoulder strap with anti-slip padding (120 cm long, 5 cm wide) ■ Grab handle for easy bag carrying ■ Personalization Velcro spot on front ■ Internal elastic bands handles ■ MOLLE/PALS attachment points
£37.00
£62.00
AVAILABLE COLOURS: BLACK, COYOTE, ALPHA GREEN
AVAILABLE COLOURS: BLACK, OLIVE GREEN, POLISH WOODLAND, COYOTE, CAMOGROM, MTP
AVAILABLE COLOURS: BLACK, OLIVE GREEN, POLISH WOODLAND, COYOTE, CAMOGROM, A-TACS AU
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ON OUR RADAR THE VIPER TACTICAL ELITE JACKET
£53.95
WHEN THE TEAM BEHIND VIPER TACTICAL APPROACHED US REGARDING A COMPLETE UPHEAVAL OF THEIR CURRENT RANGE, WE WERE INSTANTLY CURIOUS AS TO WHAT THEY HAD PLANNED. HOWEVER, WHAT WE WAS NOT PREPARED FOR WAS THE COMPANY TO COME OUT ALL GUNS BLAZING, NOT ONLY RELEASING A RANGE OF TACTICAL KIT THAT LOOKED ABSOLUTELY AMAZING, BUT ALSO CAME IN AT A RIDICULOUSLY CHEAP PRICE POINT.
VIPER TACTICAL ELITE JACKET W W W . T H E - G E A R S H A C K . C O M Viper Tactical’s relaunch has been somewhat of a revolution. A company based in England, Viper had long been known as a ‘cheap and cheerful’ brand; essentially providing kit that came in at such an affordable price that people weren’t buying it for quality and longevity, more as a stop-gap that was easily replaced if damaged. That is no longer the case. Viper Tactical are currently in what they call ‘Stage 2’ of their relaunch. Stage 1 saw their range being completely revamped, with a huge amount of product coming onto the market including some brilliantly made rucksacks and clothing that replicated various bigger brands around the globe, but brought the price plummeting down. Stage 2 is currently in the works, with individual items being released on a individual basis. One item that caught our eyes that has been featured in both stages of their relaunch is the Elite Jacket. Stage 1 of Viper Tactical’s launch saw them release the Elite Jacket in their own version of Multicam known as V-Cam; a pattern that uses the same colours as Multicam, but incorporates a ‘V’ pattern into the mix. This V-Cam has allowed them to bring the price points
down on their range massively, as they aren’t having to buy genuine materials for extortionate prices. However when the two are put together, only the most seasoned eye would tell them apart. The Elite Jacket sold so well in V-Cam, that Stage 2 of their relaunch saw them produce the Elite Jacket in Black and what we would call a Coyote Brown, and again we’re left in a situation where the price really doesn’t add up to the quality and style of the jacket. Made from a Micro-Shell material, the jacket offers both protection from light showers due to it’s water resistant technology as well as maximum comfort. When wearing the jacket you almost forget about it’s presence, which is about the biggest compliment I can give a lightweight Micro-Shell jacket. There are actually very few jackets on the market in it’s range that I would compare it’s sheer comfort to! The jacket makes use of a stash-away hood, which is stored in the collar of the jacket. Two zips make for easy stowage and allows you to get access to the hood for both deploying and storing without actually having to remove the jacket. The jacket also features 5 external
pockets; two standard ‘hand warmer’ pockets, one chest pocket, two upper arm pockets and one smaller pocket located at the bottom of the left sleeve. The two upper arm pockets also feature Velcro to allow the user to display a variety of Velcro patches. You’ve also got use of a 2-way YKK Zip, making it the perfect jacket to stash away and then pull out when the rain starts to come down. Why you ask? Simply because you’re able to don the jacket over any existing clothing but still have the ability to get to anything you may need by undoing the zip from the bottom. On top of that you have use of underarm zipped vents to stop overheating in the jacket, as well as a bungee adjustable waist and elasticated cuffs with Velcro tabs to allow for adjustment. At just over £50.00, the Viper Tactical Elite Jacket really is an example of a jacket done right and more importantly a jacket done right that doesn’t cost you an absolute fortune. Sure it doesn’t boast the latest technology, but does it have to? Not if it does the job specified… Which it does!
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LACITCAT SGNIHT DLIW
E Y E S
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M A N U F A C T U R E R
P R O F I L E
SWEDISH COMPANY AIMPOINT AB IS THE RECOGNISED WORLDWIDE LEADER AND ORIGINATOR OF RED DOT SIGHTING TECHNOLOGY. AFTER MORE THAN 35 YEARS OF WORKING CLOSELY WITH MILITARY WEAPON SYSTEMS EXPERTS, MARKSMEN AND MILITARY EXPERTS AROUND THE WORLD, AIMPOINT RED DOT SIGHTS REMAIN THE FIRST CHOICE OF MANY FOR COMBINED SPEED AND ACCURACY! When the time comes to shoot, you must have absolute faith in your sight, that it will perform flawlessly. Aimpoint believe that a weapon sight should simplify aiming while meeting the highest possible requirements for reliability and ruggedness. They understand that conditions in the field place extreme demands on equipment, so they design and test Aimpoint products to stand up to any conditions you are likely to encounter. They also design their products to operate constantly for years on a single battery so your sight will always be ready whenever you need it, quite literally a “lifesaver” when in an operational environment.
■ WHERE IT ALL BEGAN Back in 1974, a small group of Swedish shooters started exploring ways to improve shooting accuracy. Their goal was simple but ambitious; to create a sighting technology that would allow shooters to acquire their target quickly, and to hit moving targets in all weather and lighting conditions consistently and accurately. Little did they know at the time that their invention, the Aimpoint red dot sight, would revolutionise the shooting industry. The company’s first commercial sight product, the Aimpoint Electronic, was introduced to the market in 1975. This revolutionary new sight was quickly recognised as the fastest way to aim a firearm, and has achieved a high level of success
and acceptance worldwide. The Aimpoint red dot sight has continued to evolve over the past 35 years by working closely with experienced marksmen and military weapon experts, and is now recognised as one of the fastest, most rugged, and most efficient electronic small arms sighting systems in the world. There are millions of Aimpoint red dot sights in use worldwide today! Elite military and police forces around the world have used Aimpoint sights for more than 20 years. In 1997, the U.S. Army awarded Aimpoint the world’s first military contract for red dot sights with the Comp M model, otherwise known as the M68CCO. Since then, Aimpoint has continued to deliver large quantities of sights to
Aimpoint are curently known to be in use with: ■ US Army ■ US Air Force ■ USMC ■ US SOCOM ■ French Army ■ Swedish Army ■ Italian Army ■ Danish Army ■ Finnish Army the US Army; more than 1 million Aimpoint red dot sights have been delivered to them to date!
■ GETTING TECHNICAL Aimpoint AB is certified in accordance with ISO 9001:2008, a certification which is recognised globally. Aimpoint red dot sights are manufactured in a controlled process and environment. Each sight is hand-built, assigned an individual identification number, undergoes rigorous testing and numerous quality control checks during the manufacturing process. They are designed for use in the real world, and can handle rough treatment and all imaginable weather conditions. As a reliable supplier to dedicated users, quality is key for Aimpoint.
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ULTIMATELY AIMPOINT IS A BRAND THAT THE RAIDER TEAM USE, AND TRUST, ON OUR OWN FIERARMS. THEY HAVE A GREAT HISTORY AND A SUPERB REPUTATION WORLDWIDE, AND THEIR QUALITY CONTROL AND SERVICE ARE SECOND TO NONE.
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E Y E S
O N
M A N U F A C T U R E R
All of this testing and quality control means: ■ Total control throughout production process. ■ Industry-leading technology. ■ The highest quality materials used. ■ Perfect technical design. ■ Generous warranty and professional service. The manufacturing environment at Aimpoint is incerdibly high-tec; it’s similar to a laboratory rather than a factory, with highly trained experts building red dot sights by hand using advanced optical/mechanical production equipment. All components are cleaned with ultrasound and assembled in a clean environment.Products are rigorously tested before being approved for shipment. This is why Aimpoint can offer a generous warranty with all of its products. Aimpoint red dot sights are made without magnification or optical distortion. They use an LED (light emitting diode) which is totally harmless to the eyes. An electronic sight requires power to work. How long the red dot can remain lit depends on: ■ Power consumption of the light source ■ Battery capacity Aimpoint sights use 3V Lithium batteries, chosen for their superior temperature and storage capabilities. They choose batteries based on availability, storage and temperature characteristics. To achieve the longest possible operating times, Aimpoint has focused on developing a completely new technology called Advanced Circuit Efficiency Technology (ACET),
which has extremely low power consumption compared to other light sources. Depending on the battery used in their range of products, ACET sights can last nearly 50,000 hours (on setting 7 out of 10) on a single DL1/3N battery and nearly 80,000 hours (on setting 11 of 16) on a single AA battery. The Aimpoint sights are available in two different dot sizes: 2 or 4 MOA (minute of angle) depending on the models. In term of speed and accuracy, extensive trials have shown that the 4 MOA is the optimal dot size for most users in a close shooting situation. A red dot sight allows a shooter to do what comes naturally; keep both eyes open while focusing on a target. When a shooter looks into an Aimpoint sight, a red dot appears in the lens. The shooter can then quickly superimpose the red dot on the target. When the red dot is on the target, you’re on target. It is this combination of speed of sighting and accuracy that makes Aimpoint sights superior to many others.
■ THE HARDWARE So, that’s the company and some of the technology, but here’s a quick overview of the most popular of Aimpoints ground breaking products. As well as the original Comp M, there is also the Comp M2, and Comp ML2. All of these sights are perfect for small arms use, up to and including light machine guns, and benefit from the Circuit Efficiency Technology (CET). The Comp M2 is night vision compatible, whilst the Comp ML2 is not; otherwise these sights are almost indentical.
P R O F I L E
Launched in 2003 the Comp M3 and Comp ML3 are again perfect for use with small arms. These sights benefit from the ACET Technology, pushhing the bounds of energy efficiency and ruggedness further that ever before. Thes sights can be bought in either 2 or 4 MOAand can operate for over 50,000 hours on a DL1/3N Battery! Launched in 2007 the Aimpoint Comp M4 sight can run for over eight years on a single AA Battery! The Comp M4 incorporates and integral mount and is perfect for use with night vision devices. The Comp M4s was introduced in 2008 and features a low battery compartment; Aimpoint state that the Comp M4s is the most rugged sight they have ever built. Also launched in 2007 with a 4 MOA dot the Micro series of sights have been updated to a more accurate 2 MOA version this year. This is the smallest sight offered by Aimpoint, but the experiences of the Raider “T&T” team have been massively positive! The Micro series are great where previously size and weight have limited the use of a red dot sight, and take up a minute amount of rail space. Used in conjunction with the Aimpoint 3XMAG magnifier this is a potent little bit of kit! Ultimately Aimpoint is a brand that the Raider team use, and trust, on our own fierarms. They have a great history and a superb reputation worldwide, and their quality control and service are second to none. As said, we’ll be revisiting some of the individual models in more depth and we’ll bring you those reviews over time!
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B AA TL TKL IE NT GE C WH I TN HI G TH HT E V W W I SOI UO N D UE ND D E- R W OA UL RK IS NP GO T WL I GT HH T T
EVERY NOW AND THEN, SOMETHING COMES AROUND THAT WE HERE AT RAIDER JUST HAVE TO GET BEHIND. WALKING WITH THE WOUNDED, WITH THE HELP OF DIY SOS RECENTLY DID SOME AMAZING WORK; REFURBISHING A WHOLE ROAD OF HOUSES FOR VETERANS OF OUR ARMED FORCES WHO HAVE FOUND THEMSELVES HOMELESS. BUT IT DOESN’T END THERE. THIS CHRISTMAS, WALKING WITH THE WOUNDED ARE PROMOTING ‘WALKING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS’, AND THIS MONTH WE WANT YOU TO GET BEHIND THEIR CAUSE, SIMPLY BECAUSE OUR VETERANS DESERVE IT. The cameras may have stopped rolling but the impact of DIY SOS’s biggest ever build continues with presenter of DIY SOS; Nick Knowles showing the latest beneficiary his new accommodation – and calling on the rest of the UK to do their bit this Christmas to support more homeless veterans. Aiden Giles, from Manchester, served in the Household Cavalry for five years including a tour to Afghanistan but became homeless after leaving the army in 2009. He struggled to find employment and deal with mental health issues forced to sleep in his car, a tent and sofa-surf for several months. The 27-year-old, has now been given a place in the supportive accommodation built by the DIY SOS team for Walking With The Wounded to house veterans undertaking work experience or training courses. The charity has an office on the renovated Canada Street in Manchester to support veterans on the street and mentor them back into employment and independence. Presenter Nick Knowles showed Aiden around his new accommodation last week before donning a Christmas hat and hi vis vest to promote the launch of Walking With The Wounded’s Walking Home For Christmas campaign to support homeless veterans across the rest of the UK. Nick Knowles said: “Many veterans manage to get back into civvy street perfectly well but there are a significant number that struggle. “Aiden personifies what we are trying to do. Aiden has had some difficulty since leaving the armed forces and has struggled with PTSD. When they come home with physical wounds or even the more difficult ones, the mental wounds that can’t easily be seen, I think we have a responsibility as a society having asked that of them that we can actually look after them and make sure they are given every opportunity to recover. “If people who watched DIY SOS want to get involved, they can sign up to Walking Home For
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Christmas and help raise funds to get people back into work who are finding it difficult to reintegrate into civvy street after they have left the military.” Aiden, who will be moving into Walking With The Wounded’s supported accommodation in November said: “I’m looking to become an explosive dog handler and Walking With The Wounded are helping me achieve my goals to get back into work. I volunteered on the DIY SOS build and gained confidence every day from the experience. When they said I would get accommodation on the street I cried. It’s good to have that pride back in me to shine again.” Last year Walking Home For Christmas participants collectively walked more than 5,000 miles and raised £100,000 which has helped fund the charity’s new base in the North West among other centres across the UK. Andrew Cook, Head of Fundraising at Walking
With The Wounded said: “Building on the success of last year’s event and the DIY SOS build, the aim of this year’s Walking Home For Christmas initiative is to raise £250,000. This will enable us to deliver five new homeless programs across the UK ensuring beneficiaries are not precluded from gaining employment and financial security through a lack of housing. For a mere £10, anyone inspired by DIY SOS can contribute much needed funds to this great cause – we urge everyone to walk home and support veterans who won’t have a home to walk to this Christmas.” Walking With The Wounded supports veterans with physical, mental or social injuries on their journey to long-term security, independence and employment. Walking Home For Christmas raises funds for WWTW’s Home Straight programme which supports homeless veterans back into employment and independence.
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“BUILDING ON THE SUCCESS OF LAST YEAR’S EVENT AND THE DIY SOS BUILD, THE AIM OF THIS YEAR’S WALKING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS INITIATIVE IS TO RAISE £250,000. THIS WILL ENABLE US TO DELIVER FIVE NEW HOMELESS PROGRAMS ACROSS THE UK ENSURING BENEFICIARIES ARE NOT PRECLUDED FROM GAINING EMPLOYMENT AND FINANCIAL SECURITY THROUGH A LACK OF HOUSING. FOR A MERE £10, ANYONE INSPIRED BY DIY SOS CAN CONTRIBUTE MUCH NEEDED FUNDS TO THIS GREAT CAUSE – WE URGE EVERYONE TO WALK HOME AND SUPPORT VETERANS WHO WON’T HAVE A HOME TO WALK TO THIS CHRISTMAS.” It currently has projects in London, Manchester, Glasgow, Newcastle, Catterick, Aldershot and Bristol with four more opening soon. Every £40,000 funds a new centre. By signing up to Walk Home For Christmas you will be helping veterans like Aiden get back on their feet again, giving them the ability to mould their own future and get back on the road to success. To sign up, go to wwtw.org.uk . Need ideas for your walk? Here’s some previous walks done for Walking With the Wounded. THE LONG HAUL: Can you beat the current record of 203 miles by Paul Marron who walked the coastal path from Edinburgh to Newcastle and inland to Wylam, sleeping rough en route? THE WORKPLACE CHALLENGE: Software firm Greenstone walked en masse to their Christmas party in London. SCHOOL’S OUT: Schoolboy Mikey Wall walked 4 miles home to Cribyn in Wales with his mum. THE TEAM OUTING: WWTW staff in Norfolk walked 11 miles to a colleague’s home for a team dinner. THE INGENIOUS IDEA: 1st Middleton Scouts in Manchester pulled a cart and handed out gifts.
THE TRAIN-ING PLAN: Brian Sykes walked 3 miles home from his local train station. THE (LONG) DOG WALK: Nigel Horne and his black Labrador walked 14 miles home across the Severn Bridge from Bristol.
“IF PEOPLE WHO WATCHED DIY SOS WANT TO GET INVOLVED, THEY CAN SIGN UP TO WALKING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS AND HELP RAISE FUNDS TO GET PEOPLE BACK INTO WORK WHO ARE FINDING IT DIFFICULT TO REINTEGRATE INTO CIVVY STREET AFTER THEY HAVE LEFT THE MILITARY.”
ABOUT WALKING WITH THE WOUNDED Walking With The Wounded is a charity established to support the employment aspirations and vocational outcomes of our wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women, those who have been physically, mentally and socially disadvantaged by their service and assist them in gaining independence through new long term careers outside of the military. This includes providing support to homeless veterans and veterans in the Criminal Justice System, areas which are too often ignored. The outcome? Sustainable employment, and independence for them and their families.
HOW TO ENTER
■ Go to wwtw.org.uk ■ Enter your name, email and pay £10
towards the cause. ■ Get your pack with a branded hi-vis bib,
Santa hat and wristband. ■ Walk as far as is challenging for you,
1 mile or 100. ■ Any time this December. ■ #WalkingHomeForChristmas.
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MEDIA REVIEW DON MCCUL L IN UNDER OUR SPO T L IGH T IRO
£20.00
BOOK REVIEW
DON MCCULLIN DON MCCULLIN IS ONE OF THE GREATEST PHOTOGRAPHERS OF CONFLICT IN OUR TIME. HI CAREER HAS COVERED MUCH OF THE LATTER PART OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY - A RELENTLESSLY PHOTOGRAPHED CENTURY STEEPED IN CONFLICT. THIS BOOK IS CONCIEVED ON A SCALE THAT DOES JUSTICE TO HIS EXTRAORDINARY LIFE.
The book begins and ends in the Somerset landscape that surrounds his home. McAllen views a mythical England in the shadow of Glastonbury Tor beneath black, almost biblical skies. The book
then follows the chronology of his life, starting in the back streets of Finsbury Park in the fifties and going on to unpublished work recording the construction of the Berlin Wall, a landmark in his lifetime. McAllen’s photographs reveal a ravaged northern England, wars in Cyrpus, Biafra, Vietnam, Cambodia, Beirut, riots in Derry, and famine and disease in Bangladesh. All are photographed with unswerving compassion. The sequence reaches a climax among the cannibals and tribespeople deep in the jungles of Irian Jaya, as if McCullin’s gave had come to rest far from the clutter and debris of his time, focused on humanity in an almost Stone Age condition. As resonant as some of Goya’s most terrifying imagery, collectively McCullin’s photographs constitute one of the great documents of human conflict and its attendant grief, expressed with a
visual lyricism that allows the reader to glimpse the unbearable. The introduction is written by Harold Evans, former Editor of the Sunday Times and The Times newspapers, and is a leading authority on photojournalism. He worked closely with McCullin over much of his career with the Sunday Times Magazine. The introduction is accompanied by an essay by Susan Sontag, the distinguished novelist, essayist and author of On Photography (1977). Overall this book is a homage to McCullin’s work, and certainly cements him as one of the best photographers of his time. The imagery brings so many emotions to the table, displaying some of the most beautiful yet harrowing images seen. To any budding photographers, or those who enjoy good photography, this is a must have, and is quite simply a work of art.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Don McCullin grew up in north London and went to work in a cartoon animation studio in Mayfair before the Observer newspaper bough one of his gangland pictures and set him on the road as a photojournalist. He moved to the Sunday Times, where he worked for eighteen years. His photographs of almost every major conflict in his adult lifetime until the Falklands war provide some of the most potent images of the twentieth century. His pictures are in major museum collections all over the world. He is the holder of many honours and award, including the C.B.E.
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HUEY’S MILITARY - TACTICAL - OUTDOOR
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T F I G ! S A IDE
CK A S E F TH O K C PI ...OUR
STOCKING FILLERS!
CHRIS TMA S M SEEM A LIT TLEIGHT BE A LIT TLE WAY OFF Y PREPARED FORPREMATURE T O SOME OF Y E T, AND THIS FE ATURE MAY THE NEED T O B THE FES TIVE PERIOD. WE HOU BUT YOU C AN NE VER BE GOODIES THAT U Y THE PERFEC T GIF T, SO W ERE AT R AIDER HQ UNDERSOVER WOULD K ILL FOAN Y SOLDIER , OUTDOORSME ’VE PUT T OGE THER A LIS T TAND E VERY BUDGE T R… AND WHAT ’S MORE ISAN OR ALL ROUND ALPHA DOF UD ! WE ’VE GO T SOM E THING FOR E W W W.RAIDER-MAG.COM
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EA S GI F T ID
STOCKING FILLERS
NITE IZE
S-BINER AHHHN
OUR PICK OF THE SACK! - OU
1000 MILE
4 SE ASON WALK SOCK
ZIPPO
HAND WARMER
FROM: W W W.MILITARY 1S T.CO.UK
FROM: W W W.MILITARY 1S T.CO.UK
FROM: W W W.MILITARY 1S T.CO.UK
The weird name makes sense when you set eyes on this piece of kit. It’s a great S-Biner ideal to add to your bag or key ring in order to clip up and retain valuable items. The “ahhh” comes from the fact that this handy little is tool incorporates two bottle openers, ideal for cracking open a refreshing seasonal beverage and throughout the year. £ 4 .9
Forget cheesy Christmas socks. These 4 season 1000 Mile socks will last the whole year round and will be a constant source of comfort and support whenever you are on your feet all day. With padded areas and a durable build they help prevent fatigue and blisters keeping £ 14 .95 you on the go for a lot longer!
Give the gift of warmth with this literally handy hand warmer! It stay s warm for up to 12 hours with one fill and will radiate enough heat inside a pocket to thaw out those frozen digits through the winter months. Ideal for the air softer that works outside during his day job or simply for making those dog £ 19 .99 walks a little more bearable!
5.11
LEATHERMAN
XCEL STREAM
5
TMT L1 FL ASHLIGHT
£58 .50
MILITARY 1S T.CO.UK What better gift than something you can carry and find useful every single day of the year? The 5.11 TMT L1 Flashlight is a compact, every-daycarry light with top-line tactical features and build quality that will be right at home in your pocket or in your day pack. Carry it out with you to work and light up those dark corners when you really need it most.
KLEAN K ANTEEN
592ML CL ASSIC VACUUM INSUL ATED BOT TLE WITH £23.95 LOOP CAP
W W W.MILITARY 1S T.CO.UK
Forget that old school thermos flask, this Klean Kanteen is the next generation of rugged, double walled vacuum insulated container perfect for outdoor use. It’ll keep contents warm for 12 hours or cold for up to 24 and thanks to it’s electropolished interior won’t ever stain or retain flavours or odours. It’s clean and fresh every single time.
038
TRE AD BR ACELE T
HUNTING EDITION
FROM: W W W.MILITARY 1S T.CO.UK
FROM: W W W.MILITARY 1S T.CO.UK
Is there a manlier gift than this? A chunky bracelet that not only looks like a tank track, but also discreetly hides a plethora of utility tools to be used in an emergency. There’s screwdrivers and wrenches plus strap cutters and more. This is an ideal gift for the practical person in your life and will prove itself useful time and time again.
Capture the action or any event with this incredible full HD camera. Capable of streaming live images back to your mobile phone or tablet and incorporating a 2” viewing screen itself, the camera can be used as an action cam or £ 14 9 .9 9 a remote recording device to allow you to monitor your surroundings. Full impact and waterproof, this neat gadget will be able to hack any extreme conditions to get the footage you need!
£ 13 9 .9 9
HIGHL ANDER
WOLVERINE FOLDING SAW
£ 6 .9 9
HIGHL ANDER
MULTIFUNC TION PEDOME TER
£ 7.9 9
HIGHL ANDER-OUTDOOR .COM
W W W.HIGHL ANDER-OUTDOOR .COM
This folding Wolverine saw measures in at 23cm long making it the perfect portable solution to your saw’ing needs. Incorporating a rubber handle to make gripping easier, and a strong steel blade that cuts both green and deadwood with ease, the Wolverine makes for the perfect gift for all your outdoorsman friends!
Perhaps you have a friend who plans on taking up some light exercise as their New Year Resolution, or perhaps you yourself plan on doing so? Well having a Pedometer to hand can certainly give you some motivation, as well as keeping track of important information! The Highlander Multifunction Pedometer may just be the gift for you, and is available in Blue, Black and Red!
W W W.RAIDER-MAG.COM
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- OUR PICK OF THE SACK! - OUR PICK OF THE SACK!
MERLIN
K AR ABINER KNIFE
CASIO G-SHOCK
£ 9 .9 9
ENERPLE X SURFR
GD-120MB-1ER
HIGHLANDER-OUTDOOR.COM Having a knife handy in the outdoors is definitely a must, and this Merlin Karabiner Knife certainly lends itself well to being in the right place at the right time. How so you ask? Well purely because it’s a knife built into a karabiner, or maybe it’s a karabiner built into a knife… Either way it certainly will be in easy to get to once attached to something!
IPHONE 6 CHARGER CASE
FROM: W W W.HEINNIE .COM
W W W.HEINNIE .COM
Perhaps you have a friend, colleague or partner who is always running late, well give them the gift of time this Christmas with the stealthy Casio G-Shock GD-120MB-1ER! With the ability to set 5 daily alarms, whoever you present this gift to will never have an excuse to be late again, and what’s more is the watch is water resistant so perfect for those outdoorsy types!
Lets be honest, phone batteries never seem to last as long as we need them to these days, and you constantly find yourself scurrying to the nearest power source to charge your beloved smartphone. Well the Enerplex Surfr may be the answer to this problem! With the ability to charge your phone up fully more than once, and the addition of a large solar panel for emergency situations, the Enerplex Surfr could just be the perfect gift this Christmas!
£ 8 4 .95
FERRO CONCEP TS
RECCE BE ANIE
FROM: W W W.HUE Y S.CO.UK Owning a good beanie should be on everyone’s list this Winter with forecasters warning of a particularly long cold period, and what better way to own said beanie by purchasing the Ferro Concepts RECCE Beanie! Available in 4 colours (Black, Coyote, Dusk Grey and Covert Green). The RECCE Beanie is available as a one size fits all, so you really can’t go wrong!
£ 19 .99
MECHANIX
THE ORIGINAL GLOVES MULTICAM
FROM: W W W.HUE Y S.CO.UK
The Mechanix Original glove was THE glove to wear for servicemen/women and although a bunch of other manufacturers have followed suit with their own products, you still can’t go wrong with them. Simple, uncomplicated and priced at a wallet friendly point, you can’t go far wrong and now that they come in everyone’s favourite Multicam material, what’s not to love?
£ 19 .99
ECIG
PROTEC TIVE CASE
FERRO CONCEP TS
HY-LITE WALLE T
£67.95
SNUGPAK
SLEEK A JACKE T
W W W.SNUGPAK .COM
When the entire Raider team owns one, you know it must be good and the Snugpak Sleeka is exactly that - a darn good jacket! With Snugpak being the masters of cold weather sleeping bags, they’ve gone and put all of that knowledge and technology into the Sleeka, with the end product being a well put together, ridiculously warm jacket for Winter!
£99 .95
OPS
WRIST WATCH COVER
FROM: W W W.HUE Y S.CO.UK
FROM: W W W.HUE Y S.CO.UK
FROM: W W W.HUE Y S.CO.UK
These handy little eCig cases will make sure your eCig doesn’t get damaged when travelling! These cases are very reminiscent of cigar cases, and will fit eCig’s measuring up to 14cm - the size of most standard eCigs. Available in ‘Green Camo’ and ‘Desert Camo’.
If you know of someone looking for a new wallet this Christmas, the HY-LITE from Ferro Concepts is definitely a good shout. Removing all of the unnecessary bulk, the HY-LITE is made from a laser cut material that is absolutely perfect for those who just want a no hassle, no thrills solution to carrying their money and credit cards!
Find yourself constantly having to take your watch off when doing hard labor? Always end up running late because of this? Well the OPS Wrist Watch Cover might be the perfect gift for you! Constructed with Mil-spec 500D Corder fabric, this watch cover will make sure your favourite watch isn’t scratched in the great outdoors! Available in Ranger Green, Multicam, Multicam Tropic, Multicam Black, Kryptek Mandrake, A-TACS FG and PenCott GreenZone.
£4 .75
£24 .95
£ 10 .50
W W W.RAIDER-MAG.COM
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EA S GI F T ID
STOCKING FILLERS
WAGNER
SWISSPEN JELLY
OUR PICK OF THE SACK! - OU
CITIZEN
CHRONO LIMITED EDITION
FROM: W W W.HEINNIE .COM
FROM: W W W.HEINNIE .COM
Want your pen to stand out a little? Well the original Swisspen certainly does that! Whilst it may look like your standard pen, various tools are stored in the top, giving the user the perfect tool for those clutch moments. Trust us when we say you’ll be the talk of the office with one of these!
If you’re looking for something a little more formal, the Citizen Chrono may just be the watch you’re looking for. Featuring a PVD rose plated case and chronograph, as well as eco-drive movement (meaning the watch will never need a battery replacement), the Chrono is simply a stunning piece of watchmaking. And what’s more, it’s £4 59 .95 limited edition!
£ 37.9 5
BOOKER
CL ASSIC STR AIGHT R A ZOR
FROM: W W W.HEINNIE .COM
With beards being the ‘in’ thing around the world at the moment, why not buy a bearded brother a classic straight razor! Booker’s ‘Classic’ range of shaving knives are entry level models that balance affordability and high quality finishes, and this straight razor certainly looks the part!
£69 .95
PARACORD!
THE ‘HOW TO’ BOOK
FISHER
SPACE PENS .375 BULLE T
SNUGPAK
ALUMINIUM DRINKS BOT TLE 1000ML
W W W.SNUGPAK .COM
Any outdoorsman/woman will tell you how important it is to shave off any unnecessary weight you can, be it by removing non-essentials from your rucksack or by buying products that weigh less than their predecessors, and the Snugpak Aluminium Drinks Bottle does exactly that. Made from Aluminium, this drinks bottle is both incredibly lightweight and hugely durable.
£6 .95
PATROL INCIDENT GEAR [ PIG ]
£27.95
FDE GLOVES
FROM: W W W.HEINNIE .COM Combine somebodies love for guns with their love for writing with this brilliant Fisher Space Pen, designed to look like a .375 bullet when closed! The original was first conceived back in 1948, and has been on show in the New York Museum of Modern Art ever since… But you can own your own for just £27.95!
HA Z ARD 4
HEAVY-DUT Y GROOMING KIT
W W W.HUE Y S.CO.UK Plan on getting a little handy this Christmas? Then you’ll want a pair of these! The PIG £ 39 .95 FDT-Alpha Glove offers ground breaking dexterity while providing much needed protection from the rigors of tactical work. Developed by a Rogers Shooting School “Advanced” graduate with over a decade of experience in instructing Military and Law Enforcement personnel, the FDT-Alpha Gloves were designed from the ground up to minimise impact on the shooter’s grip.
HELIKON
WATCH CAP
FROM: W W W.HEINNIE .COM
FROM: W W W.HEINNIE .COM
FROM: W W W.MILITARY 1S T.CO.UK
Are you someone who likes to make Christmas presents that little bit more personal by making them yourself? Well this book might just be the perfect early present to yourself! Based around how to make things with Paracord, why not treat yourself so you can treat others with some brilliant paracord inspired creations this Christmas!
3rd world lodgings are the places for which this tough toiletry-bag was designed. But its progressive, rugged looks won’t appear out of place on five-star hotel marble. This militarygrade, harsh-environment bag is made with the same innovative features, and attention to detail as larger Hazard 4 bags, it will keep you civilized in the most dangerous spots on earth. It features a larger volume for prolonged deployments, a suspension swivel-hook and internal organizers. It even has a clear internal window for an optional mirror.
Nobody wants to see the ones they care about going about their business cold and miserable so the comforting and snug Helikon Watch Cap is a great fleecy beanie hat that’s ideal for keeping away the chill in the depths of winter. It’s made from warm micro fleece that is antibobbling and easy to wash so it’ll keep looking smart for seasons to come!
£ 5 .9 5
£ 17.9 5
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- OUR PICK OF THE SACK! - OUR PICK OF THE SACK!
BRUNTON
SNUGPAK
POWER KNIFE
DRI-SAK
FROM: W W W.HEINNIE .COM
FROM: W W W.SNUGPAK .COM
A tangle of cords. A broken cable. A missing adapter. In everyday life or on the road, this can be inconvenient and annoying. In the outdoors, this might mean the difference between getting completely lost and left in the dark, or staying powered-up and safe. Combining adapter ends from some of the most widely used outdoor gadgets into a form factor any adventurer can recognize, BRUNTON POWER KNIFE is just as important as a pocket knife in the pack of today’s connected adventurer.
Dry sacks are an essential piece of kit for those of you who spend a lot of time in the outdoors, and could be the perfect gift should you know someone who spends a lot of time in said outdoors! The Snugpak Dri-Sak is 100% waterproof and includes taped seams and a roll-top, buckle secured, waterproof closure, meaning your kit will stay protected even if it takes an unexpected dive into the water!
£ 19.95
NITE IZE
BUGLIT LED MICRO LIGHT
£ 11.95
BIOLITE
POWERLIGHT
FROM: W W W.MILITARY 1S T.CO.UK
FROM: W W W.MILITARY 1S T.CO.UK
Let somebody know that they are light of your life with this cute and super-handy “buglit” light! It’s ideal for camping or even just for attaching to a bag or pack to help navigate those dark nights. With bendy legs you can position or pose the light however you need to shed a little luminescence.
Want to really light up and energise somebodies Christmas morning? The Biolite PowerLight is an amazing lantern/torch combo with an excellent light output ideal for camping or working outdoors. This can be expanded with additional BioLite SiteLight units available separately. What’s more a USB output on the light itself can be used to charge up to three full charges of your smartphone or other electronic device! Genius!
£59 .95 £ 11.95
VIPER TAC TICAL
MOR ALE PATCHES
RAIDER
SUBSCRIP TION
£ 35 .00
FROM: THE-GE ARSHACK .COM
FROM: R AIDER-MAG.COM
Everyone loves a good morale patch, and they really are an inexpensive gift that can be thrown into Christmas cards as a little something for those on your Christmas list. This range from Viper Tactical really are very tongue in cheek and certainly brought a smile to our face, and at just over £3, they make the perfect ‘little something’!
Yes, we’ve saved the best for last - What gift could be better for your loved ones than a full years subscription to their favourite magazine! 12 months of Raider straight to their doorstep - No hassle of finding us in their latest newsagents, no dragging themselves out of bed on those dreary winter days… Just a copy of Raider, delivered through their postbox every month. It doesn’t get any easier than that!
THE MAGAZ
INE FOR
THE MAGAZINE
OUTDOORS
- ADRENALI
THE ALPHA
FOR THE
MALE
ALPHA MALE
N - TACTICAL FITNESS
£ 3 .15
WE CHAT WITH SCOTT AND STONEBRIDGE ABOUT SERIES 4 IN ANTICIPATION OF ITS GLOBAL DVD RELEASE!
- EXPLORE
OUR RELA 2014 ISSUEUNCH BRAN WITH D FEATU NEW RES INSID E!
INSANITY
THIS NEW FITNESS REGIME IS GOING TO TEST YOUR METAL!
ADRENALIN!
RAIDER TAKES YOU WHERE NO SAT-NAV WOULD DARE TO GO!
MAN STUFF
FIXED BLADES MULTITOOLS TO , WE GOT THE EDGE!
GEAR ZONE ebcon
publishing ltd.
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VIA POCKETMAGS!
VOLUME 6 ISSUE 11
£4.25
WE TAKE A LOOK AT THE BEST SHOULDER IN BAGS
READ RAIDER
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WISPORT BAGS ONCE AGAIN WE ARE BACK ON THE SCENE WITH ANOTHER FINE SELECTION OF BAGS AND LUGGAGE AVAILABLE FROM MILITARY 1ST. AS RECENT TRADITION HAS DICTATED, WE HAVE FOCUSSED ON A SPECIFIC BRAND AND THEIR OFFERINGS AND THIS MONTH WE ARE MOBILISING WITH WISPORT, A BRAND THAT’S NEW TO US AND ONE YOU MAY NOT BE FAMILIAR WITH. WE ARE PLEASED TO SEE PREMIUM LEVEL QUALITY AND ALSO REASONABLE PRICING IN COMBINATION HERE, ALONG WITH SOME SLIGHTLY MORE UNUSUAL PATTERNS, MATERIALS AND DESIGNS GIVING US SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT FROM THE NORM. LET’S NOT WASTE ANOTHER MOMENT AND LET’S GET ON WITH THE GEAR!
£109.95
ZIPPERFOX 40L RUCKSACK
The newest addition in Wisport’s line of military backpacks, the ZipperFox 40L was created as a modified, slightly larger and more versatile, version of the existing Silverfox 30L backpack. Designed for one or two-day trips, this new generation of single compartment tactical backpack has a lightweight and durable construction, high functionality and innovative technology. The main feature of this backpack is an inverted “U” shaped clamshell zip opening, which allows for quick and easy access to the main compartment from the top and both sides at the same time. Additionally, ZipperFox backpack comes with re-designed SAS Plus carrying system which now includes easily removable and centrally located aluminium frame, removable buckled waist belt and highly breathable padding throughout the back. The ZipperFox Rucksack from Wisport is fully CamelBak compatible, with easily accessible zipped hydration compartment, and fully MOLLE compatible thanks to numerous webbing straps placed around the pack. Moreover, this highly practical backpack also comes with waterproof rain cover hidden inside the easily accessible bottom compartment, side attachment straps and multiple inner sleeves / zipped pockets for easy organisation. The pack is big enough to fit everything without having to dig through a massive main compartment and performs exceptionally well in virtually all conditions, whatever the weather.
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£189.99
WILDCAT 55L RUCKSACK
Part of Wisport’s line of the latest generation of survival backpacks, the Wildcat 55 litres tactical backpack is made of extremely durable Cordura material and comes with many interesting design solutions normally present in the much more expensive packs. The main compartment of this pack can easily be divided into two smaller sections by means of an internal compartment division hood, creating the top section of 2/3 of the capacity and the bottom one of about 1/3 of total capacity. The internal hood comes with a drawstring, which partial span allows carrying long items (rolled foam pad, tripod, etc.). The backside of the main compartment comes with 6x4 MOLLE panel and a large hydration compatible flat pocket, which can also be used for carrying a laptop or small radio hardware. Above the MOLLE panel are small zip pockets, hooks for attachment of hydration bags and passage hole for hydration hoses or antennas. The access to the main compartment is possible through the top, from the bottom through the flap closed with a thick doublesided YKK zipper or from the front via the zippered pocket with concealed inner zip opening. The main top flap is removable and has two internal pockets also with durable YKK branded zippers. Additionally this rucksack comes with two detachable side pockets with a capacity of 9 litres each. Both pockets come with MOLLE webbing and are secured with a small snow collar with drawstring and buckle closure.
£89.99
WHISTLER 35L RUCKSACK
The Whistler 35 litre backpack, part of Wisport’s line of the latest generation of survival backpacks is made of durable Cordura Nylon and developed in collaboration with Polish Military Forces. Wide and ergonomically shaped shoulder straps and padded waist belt help to distribute weight evenly and relief the pressure. The belt can easily be detached from the rucksack which allows the use of modular weapon belts together with a tactical vest. Quick-release Fastex buckles allow the backpack to be quickly dropped on the ground. The expandable main compartment of Whistler 35 comes with three very large zipped pockets, hooks for attachment of hydration bags and passage holes for hydration hoses or antennas. The passage hole itself is protected against water trickling down the hose or the air. The outer side of main compartment features medium size zipped compartment with two additional zip secured pockets. The side compression straps allow the backpack to be adapted to the size of carried kit and prevent it from shifting inside the bag, which may cause unnecessary noise, discomfort and disturbance. The front and side of the backpack has multiple MOLLE strap attachments points, which allow for mounting various MOLLE accessories. Moreover, multiple Nylon straps permit the attachment of much bigger items that will not fit inside, or because they need to remain on hand. Thanks to this the overall capacity of the rucksack may be significantly greater than nominal 35 litres. The Whistler 35 backpack comes with a rain cover as a standard accessory, hidden in the compartment on the bottom of the bag and fastened with Velcro.
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W I T H
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WILSPORT
SAS PLUS SYSTEM
The main advantage of the Wildcat 55 backpack is fully adjustable SAS Plus military carrier system which allows for adjusting the backpack while on the move, depending on the angle of descent or ascent. This feature is also helpful when wearing any extra equipment such as a tactical vest or plate carrier. Wide and ergonomically shaped shoulder straps, sternum strap and padded waist belt help to distribute weight evenly and relief the pressure. The waist belt can easily be detached from the rucksack which allows for the use of modular weapon belts together with tactical vest. Quick-release ITW Nexus buckles allow the backpack to be quickly dropped on the ground when required. The belt also features MOLLE webbing for easy attachment of additional accessories.
£79.99
SPARROW RUCKSACK 30L
The Sparrow 30 litre backpack, part of Wisport line of the latest generation of survival backpacks, is made of durable Cordura Nylon and developed in collaboration with Polish Military forces. The main advantage of the Sparrow 30 backpack are ergonomically shaped padded shoulder straps, adjustable quick-release chest strap, wide removable waist strap with ITW Nexus buckle, two spacious independent compartments and multiple MOLLE attachments points throughout the bag. Main compartment of Sparrow 30 rucksack comes with a hydration compatible sleeve pocket on the backside and a large zipped mesh pocket on the front side. Additionally, above the sleeve pocket are hooks for attachment of hydration bags and a passage hole for hydration hoses or antennas. The passage hole itself is protected against water trickling down the hose or the air. The front compartment goes with small sleeve pocket and zipped mesh organiser and a two 8” (20cm) Nylon straps, one with D-Ring and one with carabineer. Quick-release buckles allow the backpack to be quickly dropped when required. The front and side compression straps allow the backpack to be easily adapted to the size of carried kit and prevent it from shifting inside the bag, which may cause unnecessary noise, discomfort and disturbance. Front of the backpack, side panels and the lid has a multiple MOLLE strap attachments points, which allow for mounting various MOLLE accessories i.e. backpack bags, first aid kits and pouches. Moreover multiple Nylon straps permit the outside fixation of much bigger items that will not fit inside, or because they need to remain on hand.
£79.99
CARACAL RUCKSACK 22L
Made of durable Cordura Nylon and developed in collaboration with Polish Military forces. The main advantages of the Caracal 22 backpack are AIR BACK suspension system, ergonomically shaped padded shoulder straps, adjustable quickrelease chest strap, wide removable waist strap with oversized quick release buckle, hydration compatible main compartment with inner sleeves, two independent front pockets and multiple MOLLE attachments points throughout the bag. Main compartment of Caracal rucksack comes with a two hydration compatible sleeves and a zipped mesh pocket for storing smaller accessories. Additionally, above the mesh pocket area hooks for attachment of hydration bags and a passage hole for hydration hoses or antenna. The front of Caracal backpack comes with two independent zipped pockets, top one with outer Velcro for patches and bottom one with multiple MOLLE straps on the outside. The partially adjustable AIR BACK suspension system offers excellent ventilation and ensures comfortable wear even during long trips, while the concealed waterproof cover, hidden in the bottom pouch adds superb protection against the elements. Multiple MOLLE strap attachments points present throughout the bag allow for mounting various MOLLE accessories. Numerous quick-release buckles let the backpack to be quickly dropped when required. The top and side compression straps allow the backpack to be easily adapted to the size of carried kit and prevent it from shifting inside the bag, which may cause unnecessary noise, discomfort and disturbance to the balance.
£69.99
RIFLE CASE 100
Tactical Foxtrot Waist Bag from Direct Action is a highly practical EDC bag made of durable and water resistant 500D Cordura material. The unique pack features main compartment with inner Velcro loop for easy customisation, padded tablet compartment, padded back and side waist panels for added shock protection, and removable shoulder strap with padded wrap for extra comfort. Additionally, this highly flexible pack comes with multiple outer pockets for all your storage needs, laser-cut MOLLE throughout the bag for extra attachments, and highly elastic shock cord on top for strapping additional easy to access gear. The Foxtrot Waist Bag offers for high level of customisation and flexibility, and great amount of carrying space in a compact and travel friendly size.
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A D R E N A L I N E
T H E
T H R E E
P E A K S
C H A L L E N G E
THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE WHEN IT COMES TO TESTS OF PHYSICAL STRENGTH, THERE ARE FEW EXAMPLES MORE GRUELING THAN THE TASK OF CLIMBING A MOUNTAIN. WANT TO PUSH YOURSELF EVEN FURTHER? THE THREE PEAK CHALLENGE OFFERS EXACTLY THAT, CLIMBING NOT ONE, BUT THREE MOUNTAINS!
Whilst the British region may not particularly be well known for it’s glorious mountain ranges with sharp inclines and snow tipped peaks, it is home to a number of peaks. They may not be the home of a film set or have theme park roller coaster rides modeled after them, but they’re still mountains nonetheless! So, which peaks are we talking of? I guess it depends on which of the two courses you take! When most people hear of the ‘Three Peaks Challenge’ they instantly think of Snowdon in Wales, Scafell Pike in England and Ben Nevis in Scotland, however there is also another route in Yorkshire. The Yorkshire event sees you climb the much smaller trio of Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. Taking part in either of the Three Peaks Challenges can be done in three different ways - either as a self-organized event, a professionally organized event or through a charity-organized event. Which you do highly depends on your physical fitness and knowledge of the area; the last thing you want happening whilst climbing either of the peaks is to need medical assistance or to get lost without having a clue where you are.
THE THREE PEAKS
Otherwise known as the National Challenge, the Three Peaks Challenge pits you up against the three most known peaks in the United Kingdom -
SNOWDON, IN WALES Snowdon sits at 1085m high, making it neither the biggest or smallest peak in the Three Peaks Challenge. While Snowdon has many paths with varying difficulty, most Thee Peaks Challengers with take either the Pyg Track or Miners Track.
BEN NEVIS, IN SCOTLAND Ben Nevis is the highest of the three peaks at 1344 metres tall. Unlike the other two the path to Ben Nevis starts a lot closer to sea level, meaning there is a much greater vertical ascent to climb making it probably the hardest of the three to climb. It is a popular misconception that these three are the highest peaks in the United Kingdom, when in fact there are over one hundred peaks in Scotland that are higher than Scafell Pike and 56 higher than Snowdon. Ben Nevis however is the highest peak in the United Kingdom. Maximum climbing times are generally suggested as being around 4 hours for Snowdon, and 5 hours for Ben Nevis and Scafell Pike, but you should aim for a half hour or so under. In itself this time isn’t unrealistic for most relatively fit people, but it’s certainly not a gentle walk, and when three climbs are required within 24 hours the Challenge becomes more difficult, draining your energy and depriving you of sleep.
SCAFELL PIKE, IN ENGLAND Scafell Pike is the smallest of the three peaks at 978 metres, but that doesn’t make it a pushover! Like Snowden, Scafell Pike has a variety of different paths to climb however only two are used by the masses.
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Joss Naylor completed the Fastest Three Peaks Challenge in 1971, completing the course in 11 hours 56 minutes.
T H E
Norman completed the fastest Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge in 1976, completing the course in 2 hours 29 minutes and 53 seconds
T H R E E
The British Armed Forces hold a record when it comes to the Peaks, completing the course three times in 69 hours.
P E A K S
Many have completed both the National and Yorkshire three peaks in the same sitting with the Trustmarque Team holding the record completing both courses in 33 hours 17 minutes
C H A L L E N G E
YORKSHIRE THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge takes in the peaks of Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough, usually in this order, and in under 12 hours. These peaks form part of the Pennine range, and encircle the head of the valley of the River Ribble, in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The Yorkshire Challenge sees you climb.
PEN-Y-GHENT
At 691m high, Pen-y-Ghent is the first and smallest of the three peaks you will ascend.
WHERNSIDE
Whernside is the highest of the three Yorkshire peaks, standing at 728m high and is the second peak you’ll climb.
INGLEBOROUGH
Ingleborough falls in the middle of the other two in terms of height, being just 5 metres smaller than Whernside at 723m. If you fancy a go at the Three Peaks Challenge but think the National Challenge will be too much for you, you could try your hand at the Yorkshire Challenge! However, that by no means makes the Yorkshire Challenge a walk in the park, and you should definitely prepare!
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RAIDER’S ROUTES HAVE FIRMLY BEEN PL ANTED IN THE MILITARY WORLD, SPAWNING FROM THE NEED OF A MAGAZINE FOR ARMED FORCES PERSONNEL DURING THE IRAQ AND AFGHANISTAN CONFLICTS THAT WASN’T INFLUENCED BY VARIOUS SOURCES - BRINGING OUR SOLDIERS REVIEWS THAT REALLY TOLD THEM HOW IT WAS. THIS MONTH WE HAVE ROLLED BACK TO THESE PRINCIPLES, PURELY DUE TO THE HUGE AMOUNT OF ACTIVIT Y REGARDING THE BRITISH ARMED FORCES. OVER THE NEX T 7 PAGES, WE HAVE A HUGE AMOUNT OF DIRECT ACTION NEWS FOR YOU, AND WE ALSO SAY FAREWELL TO A MAINSTAY OF THE ROYAL AIR FORCE, ONE THAT SHALL BE SORELY MISSED. ■ PAGES: 48-50
on the scene!
UK ARMOURED BATTLE GROUP TAKES PART IN POLISH EXERCISE
THE UK’S LEAD ARMOURED BATTLE GROUP (LABG) IS CURRENTLY IN ACTION IN A POLISH-HOSTED MULTI-NATIONAL NATO EXERCISE.EXERCISE DRAGON HAS BROUGHT TOGETHER ARMED FORCES FROM SEVERAL NATO ALLIES TO PRACTICE AND TEST MULTINATIONAL, JOINT COMBINED ARMS MANOEUVRES AT THE DIVISIONAL LEVEL, AND THE UK’S CONTRIBUTION PREDOMINATELY INVOLVES THE ARMY.
■ PAGES: 52-53
ROYAL NAVY DIVERS FEEL THE HEAT DURING NATO EXERCISE IN ICELAND
A TEAM OF ROYAL NAVY CLEARANCE DIVERS HAVE BLASTED THEIR WAY THROUGH A HIGHLY-CHARGED NATO EXERCISE IN ICELAND DEMONSTRATING THEIR EXPLOSIVE EXPERTISE.
■ PAGES: 54-55
FAREWELL TO THE RAF UK SEARCH AND RESCUE
MORE THAN 74 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS ROYAL AIR FORCE UK SEARCH AND RESCUE (SAR) AIR OPERATIONS DREW TO A CLOSE THIS MONTH, AS THE SERVICE HANDED OVER SAR DUTIES TO THE MARITIME & COASTGUARD AGENCY AND BRISTOW HELICOPTERS LTD.
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UK ARMOURED BATTLE GROUP TAKES PART IN POLISH EXERCISE THE UK’S LEAD ARMOURED BATTLE GROUP (LABG) IS CURRENTLY IN ACTION IN A POLISH-HOSTED MULTI-NATIONAL NATO EXERCISE.EXERCISE DRAGON HAS BROUGHT TOGETHER ARMED FORCES FROM SEVERAL NATO ALLIES TO PRACTICE AND TEST MULTINATIONAL, JOINT COMBINED ARMS MANOEUVRES AT THE DIVISIONAL LEVEL, AND THE UK’S CONTRIBUTION PREDOMINATELY INVOLVES THE ARMY.
The UK has committed around 800 troops to the exercise, and more than 130 vehicles, including Challenger 2 main battle tanks and Warrior infantry armoured fighting vehicles. Poland, Germany, the US and Canada make up the other nations taking part in the five-week, two-part exercise, which began in September and runs until the end of October. The first phase, a UK-only exercise, was carried out at the Drawsko Pomorski Training Area. The second phase, which begins today (19 October) at the Orzysz Training area, will involve all five nations. The exercise involves up to 10,000 troops from the five participating nations, and is designed to exercise Polish Divisional and Brigade HQs while concurrently allowing integrated training at the Company and
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Battlegroup level by UK, Polish, German and American force elements. Exercise Dragon is part of the UK contribution to NATO’s Assurance Measures and, as well as delivering significant training value, is designed to provide assurance to eastern Allies. Poland is a key NATO ally and we value our strong bilateral relationship with them. The UK remains determined to build on this relationship further as we move forward. UK participation in Exercise Dragon provides an opportunity to test our forces to their readiness as the UK prepares to lead NATO’s Very High Readiness Joint Task Force in 2017. Exercise Dragon underlines NATO’s purpose of collective defence and demonstrates the UK's commitment to defend Allies.
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Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said: “In a darker and more dangerous world, it is vital that we work with our NATO allies so we can respond to any threat. That’s why the UK is playing a key role in Exercise Dragon, contributing nearly 1,000 troops, and over 130 vehicles and tanks. “The exercise will help preparations for NATO’s new rapid reaction taskforce, which the UK will provide troops for every year into the next decade and which we will lead in 2017.” Lieutenant Colonel Andrew Garner, Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion Yorkshire Regiment, which is part of the LABG, said: “This has been a great exercise for 1 YORKS. Getting our vehicles and equipment out to Poland was a third of the exercise, and the exercise out here has been top notch. “The Polish terrain adds a different dimension to our training which we can't achieve in the UK. Working so closely with our NATO allies has been great training for the guys. Obviously we have different ways of doing things, but bringing all this together in line with NATO doctrine has been challenging, but highly rewarding.”
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FOR ALL YOUR WEEKEND WARRIOR NEEDS
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R E P I V W E N TACTICAL S P O L A I C SP E ! G I R T S E CH W E S H IP W O R L D W ID E
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ROYAL NAVY DIVERS
FEEL THE HEAT DURING NATO EXERCISE IN ICELAND A TEAM OF ROYAL NAVY CLEARANCE DIVERS HAVE BLASTED THEIR WAY THROUGH A HIGHLY-CHARGED NATO EXERCISE IN ICELAND – DEMONSTRATING THEIR EXPLOSIVE EXPERTISE.
The team of 12 bomb disposal operatives from Southern Diving Group joined around 200 Tri-Service colleagues from 14 NATO and Partner for Peace nations to take part in Exercise Northern Challenge in Keflavik. A two week exercise in its 14th year of operation, it provided 22 teams with a variety of challenges both in land and maritime environments, with each task increasing in difficulty to test the operators and their teams. The Commanding Officer of Southern Diving Group, Lieutenant Commander Al Nekrews QGM was also chosen as the CO of the Multi-National Explosive Ordnance Disposal Co-ordination Cell for the exercise due to his extensive knowledge of maritime and land bomb disposal operations. He said: “Exercise Northern Challenge takes these multi-national teams and brings them together for a realistic threat-based scenario which develops rapidly on land and in the water. Iceland is an excellent place to train as we can use live weapons and explosives; so it is an opportunity to make the training as realistic as possible.” The teams all had to work to the NATO doctrine while ensuring they also kept to their own national Standard Operating Procedures. In the Royal Navy
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team’s case this means that once the two IED Disposal Operators – Petty Officer Sam ‘Nobby’ Clark and Chief Petty Officer Simon Crew – have decided how they will tackle the device, they must radio through to Lt Cdr Nekrews to get his approval. CPO Crew said: “We have a strict set of procedures that we have learned from historical bomb disposal operations in Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan so many of the teams here look to us in order to learn from our experiences. We have a very stringent process – and one of these is to call into the CO to describe exactly what we are seeing and our plan to disable it.” One of the main aims of the exercise is to ensure that the operators and their teams focus on retaining the device – or parts of it – for forensic testing. The idea is to target the bomb makers directly – a tactic that proved successful on Op Herrick, resulting in a number of high profile arrests. Teams have to bag their evidence and bring it to a lab at the headquarters where a Danish forensic expert examines the parts to report back his findings to the main briefing each morning. Here the teams receive feedback from the previous day’s activities and are then given their tasks for the day – usually with one in the morning and one in the afternoon. “A team of over 30 people coordinate the exercise
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and prioritise the tasks – acting as the tasking authority for the teams,” said Lt Cdr Nekrews. “We also provide a national point of contact who is a subject matter expert and understands each country’s Standard Operating Procedures.” The exercise is not only testing for the |ED Disposal Operators but also the rest of the diving team from Southern Diving Group who are usually split between Portsmouth and Plymouth bases and cover land and maritime bomb disposal operations in the UK. “The Royal Navy are capable of operating at land and in the maritime environment, but our niche capability is the underwater EOD capability,” added Lt Cdr Nekrews. As such all of the Royal Navy’s tasks for the exercise involved the maritime environment with scenarios including a boat rigged up with an IED on board, a limpet mine attached to a coastguard vessel and a suicide diver with explosives attached to his air cylinders. PO Andrew ‘Snowy’ Davies of the Danish Navy – a former RN diver – was one of the exercise assessors. He said: “On land there are a lot of actions you can take to ensure that you never have to expose an operator to an explosive device by using the robots for example, but in the maritime environment, and
I C E L A N D
particularly in these scenarios, someone must be sent in to observe and disable it. “This can be a very long, slow operation because these devices are designed to be unpredictable. Plus here in Iceland the conditions mean that the operators and the team are all very cold and wet and yet they must keep on going – it is extremely challenging for them.” As the scenarios became more complex the teams were then made aware that the bombmakers were targeting the operators by observing them disabling their previous devices and learning the procedures. Another lesson learnt from Afghanistan – the operators also had to be aware of this, and ensure that they adapted their strategy to avoid further risk to their lives while all the time assessed by the exercise staff. Captain Florian Hanol of the German EOD Operations Company, said this was the second year he had attended Ex Northern Challenge. “This is a really good opportunity to meet everyone working in the same field and to share experience and see how the different teams operate,” he said. “The German team have been doing really well – this is the first time that the team has worked together so I am very pleased with the result.”
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F A R E W E L L
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FAREWELL TO THE RAF UK
SEARCH AND RESCUE MORE THAN 74 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS ROYAL AIR FORCE UK SEARCH AND RESCUE (SAR) AIR OPERATIONS DREW TO A CLOSE THIS MONTH, AS THE SERVICE HANDED OVER SAR DUTIES TO THE MARITIME & COASTGUARD AGENCY AND BRISTOW HELICOPTERS LTD.
Since their introduction more than 30 years ago, the RAF’s famous yellow Sea Kings and their crews have saved tens of thousands of lives and continued to stand by on duty 24-hours-a-day until 4 October, when the final operational flight landed at Royal Marines Base Chivenor in Devon. The handover marked the end of more than 74 years of continuous SAR air operations by the RAF in the UK, during which SAR personnel have been awarded six George Medals, more than 50 Air Force Crosses and Medals, and more than 90 Queen’s Commendations for Bravery or Valuable Service in the Air. Official RAF SAR statistic record-keeping only began in 1983, but since then the RAF’s six SAR units have completed 34,025 callouts and rescued 26,853 persons in distress. These figures however do not take into account rescue sorties and persons assisted by bases that have closed or been relocated. There would have also been a large number of persons assisted prior to 1983, with the RAF beginning to use helicopters as a rescue platform in the early 1950s. Chivenor was the last SAR base to hand over responsibility to Bristow Helicopters Ltd, which will provide crews and helicopters to maintain
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R E S C U E SAR FACT FILE ■ During the first two years of the Second World War, Britain had no coordinated air-sea rescue units, just 28 marine craft launches but no dedicated air-sea rescue aircraft. The Marine Craft Section came into being on 12 April 1918, only 11 days after the formation of the RAF on 1 April 1918. ■ As a result of the shortcomings of rescue provision the Directorate of Air Sea Rescue was formed on 6th February 1941 at an emergency meeting chaired by Air Marshal Sir Arthur ‘Bomber’ Harris. ■ Aircraftsman Thomas Edward Shaw, better known as Colonel T E Lawrence of Arabia, was involved in the development of the 100 series High Speed Launch used for rescues by the RAF extensively through the war years. ■ By the end of the Second World War more than 13,000 lives had been saved from the seas around Britain, of that total, 5,721 were aircrew, 4,665 non-aircrew, including 277 enemy airmen. ■ The most highly decorated Air-Sea Rescue pilot was Flight Lieutenant Tom Fletcher who saved more people than any other airman in World War Two. He was awarded a Distinguished Flying Medal for battling enemy fire and strong winds to pull a Spitfire pilot to safety out of a minefield in the English Channel and later had a Bar added to it, for saving German sailors adrift in the dark. ■ The first peace-time RAF SAR Helicopter Squadron exclusively using helicopters was No 275 Squadron re-organized in 1953 at RAF Linton-on-Ouse. The unit was the first to paint their aircraft yellow with the words ‘RESCUE’, in black on the fuselage. ■ The Sea King became the sole helicopter type to perform UK SAR helicopter duties after the Wessex was retired in the early 1990s.
SAR duties under Maritime & Coastguard Agency management. The RAF’s final search and rescue air operation took place on 4 October, after Devon & Cornwall Police asked for assistance in taking a 38-year-old-man found unconscious on Ilfracombe Beach to a hospital. Officer Commanding 22 Squadron Wing Commander ‘Sparky’ Dunlop said: “As we commemorate the end of the RAF SAR Force, we reflect on the end of a long tradition of RAF personnel who launched aircraft that safely flew and efficiently searched for, then rescued, those in distress around the clock, 365-days-a-year.” RAF Search and Rescue Force Commander for the UK Group Captain Steve Bentley said: “It is with enormous pride that we remember the RAF’s life-saving achievements since rescue operations began in 1941. Thousands of lives have been saved and individuals reunited with their loved ones through rescue missions often flown in the most difficult and extreme conditions.” While RAF SAR air missions in the UK have come to an end, a small number of Sea King crews will continue to train at Chivenor to prepare them to provide cover for aircrew stationed in the Falkland Islands.
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