2018
New Year NEW POWER!
Photo cover: Frag Out! Team
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INDEX
OUT! HQ: FRAG OUT! FRAG Michał “Królik” Sitarski
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Edit by: HCG/Poland 2018
Bartosz Szolucha
Marcin Płassowski
©FRAG OUT! 2018
Aldo Raine
Wooki Krzyżanowski
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TEAM FO!:
Bartek Bera / Anna „Villemo” Biadun / Norbert Ciano (ITA) / David Crane / Michał Czerwiński / Tomasz Dzieciątkowski / Jurgen Hatzenbichler (AUT) / Jan-Philipp Weisswange / Piotr “Walery” Walerysiak / Konrad „Dziku” Idzik / Robert Jędrych / Mateusz Jan Kanigowski / Marcin Kordek / Robert „Pan Franko” Krysiński / Tomasz Kwasek / Filip O’Kell / Łukasz Pacholski / Krzysztof Pikuła / Krzysztof „WIR” Pluta / Marcin Płassowski / Wojciech WAR Ramotowski / Agata Ring / Sikor / Michał „Królik” Sitarski / Henryk Soliński / Marcin Lotkowski / Maciek Urban / SPARTANAT.COM / Maciej „El Patron” Stopniak Paweł „Super” Supernat / Piotr Szalaty / Matylda Szalaty / Bartosz „Szaszłyk” Szołucha / Monika Hryniewicz Adam Szpigiel / Jacek Tarka / Paweł Tworzewski / Krzysztof Dymel / Urszula Zdunek – korekta
Ä SHOT Show 2018
Ä Olight Valkyrie PL-2
Ä Milipol Paris
Ä Vortex Optics Spitfire
2017
Ä Dubai Air Show
3x Prism Scope
Ä F-16 Fighting Falcon
Ä Clawgear Enforcer Flex
Ä Polish Mi-14 Haze
Ä Carinthia ISG 2.0
Ä FB Radom P-99
Ä Tasmanian Tiger TAC
News
Ä Pioneer Arms Corp:
Pa n t s
Modular Pack 30
Hellpup
Ä Gear for shooting range
My Ser vice Rifle
Ä Fenix FD41
Ä Troy XM177E2: Ä MSBS/GROT Ä MSBS:
rifle bayonet
Safety switch
Ä Ammunition for EDC
Ä Luminox SEAL
Master Carbon 3800
Ä Edge Eyewear Legends Ä PASGT
part I:
Helmet
REFERENCE
VIVA LAS VEGAS •
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TRADE SHOW Story by: spartanat.com Jürgen Hatzenbichler Photo: Martin Sendlbeck
• Best of SHOT Show 2018
CRYE PRECISION
Announced before the SHOT Show 2018, now landed: the new G4 uniform from Crye Precision. Keep calm: G4 will not replace G3 which will remain available. G4 comes in FR and will be another step in development of Crye uniforms As always, Crye splits its line up in Combat Apparel (left) and Field Apparel (right).
OPS-CORE
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Ops-Core displayed their the latest FAST SF series helmets with matching accessories. The focus was put on improved armor and face protection. A new mandible protects the lower half of the face like in a motorcycle helmet. With the new Ops-Core face protection, it is important to nightlight that you can both drink and have a smoke with it on head.
CRYE PRECISION
The new Structural Plate Carrier (SPC) looks like someone would have taken the Templars Gear plate carrier and make it lighter. Great piece, anyway. Initially there were rumors that SPC will replace the JPC. Not so, the iconic JPC remains in Crye's offer.
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CRYE PRECISION
Brand new from Vortex, the Razor AMG UH-1 holographic weapon sight. Since EOTech has a tremendous failure sometime ago, a strong competitor had arrive. At first glance, the Razor AMG UH-1 makes a good impression.
VORTEX OPTICS
We fell in love in .223 Empty Shell XM556 Microgun. It’s like a Minigun, but tiny... Wrap one, please. Let's see if we can get through airport customs.
EMPTY SHELL
HELIKON-TEX Polish Helikon-Tex developed into a global brand. It was their first SHOT Show appearance, but hey are about to conquer the American market for you. Not only the excellent trousers, but also a new Bail-out bag, which is a real survival battleship Extremely exciting to see how innovative the Poles are!
FIRSTSPEAR First Spear sits around the corner with full AOR2 gear. The Maritime Strandhoegg with the new multi-purpose magazine pouche sand a hand warmer in front of the belly. The US Navy has certified the plate carrier for maritime use.
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VELOCITY SYSTEMS Velocity Systems shows what you could see last year, but now it’s all out! The SCARAB DLX plate carrier has a re-designed Trilor Grid laminate with MOLLE-compatible slots which are stronger than standard slits. The internal adjustable suspension system offers as well as an air gap between the armor and body. It has resulted in up to 56% reduction in BFD after hit. Plus, it improves ventilation.
LALO
LALO footwear offer grows quickly. Here is the new color palette.
The laser pointers on the weapon can have many shapes, usually boxy ones. The MAWL from B. E. Meyers is different as it is a tube mounted on the 2 or 10 o' clock position and works as fine as he looks. Something that we would like to present in more detail soon.
HALEY STRATEGIC Travis Haley’s company was also at SHOT, so we took a closer look on their news stuff. With its D3CR, the HSP has set an industry standard for micro rigs. There was new carrying system with small plate carrier integrated with D3CR. Yet, no information on their website about this new piece.
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BE MEYERS
SIG SAUER SIG Sauer has won the new contract for the service pistol of the US Army. But we have found a classic P226 in Navy SEALs MK25 version with SIG’s own weaponlight and micro red dot.
TEAM WENDY Whoever has head, needs to protect it. Team Wendy ballistic and bump helmets are perfect. One even had the Matbock SKINS in Multicam applied.
JESSE JAMES FIREARMS UNLIMITED
And at the end of the day a few funny beauties from Jesse James Firearms. Kind of steampunk style rifles. Whether it's related to famous Jesse James... We don't know.)
5.11 TACTICAL
Brand camouflage pattern from 5.11 Tactical. GEO-7 TERRAIN and GEO-7 NIGHT. Cool looking for sure. Will see how effective they are!
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HONORPOINT USA Dyneema Tegris Kit System “Ripper� by Honorpoint USA uses innovative composite material DTKS Ripper plate carrier weighs less than a half of kilogram without plates. Made of Dyneema Composite Fabric which offers toughness, air permeability, low and high temperature operating capability, UV/IR Protection, and waterproof properties. Additionally, it is laminated for FR requirements.
HK433
The HK433 assault rifle, a Heckler & Koch proposal for the German Bundswehr new assault rifle program wasn’t officially shown during the MILIPOL, but we were lucky enough to have a private photo session with the latest product of the HK. The new short-stroke piston rifle is a blend of the best parts from the G36 and HK416. It was designed as a fully modular weapon system and 100% ambidextrous. The first and base variant developed accordingly to Bundeswehr requirements is 5.56 mm NATO. There are two different options for the lower receiver (the rifle features monolithic upper receiver and polymer lower), one comes with the HK416 or AR-style controls and the second has magazine release lever and safety switch as in the G36. User can opt in for one of the versions. HK433 will be offered in black and RAL8000 FDE color.
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FABRIQUE NATIONALE SCAR-SC
The FN Herstal from Belgium showed their latest sub-compact variant of the 5.56 mm NATO SCAR-L assault rifle with 7.5” barr hanguard. Overall length of rifle is 535 mm (stock collapsed) and 653 mm (extended). The weight is approx. 3.15 kilograms. Some and the .300BLK conversion kit is in the works. BTW, does anybody remembers the 2011 SCAR-PDW with 6.75” barrel?
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LUVO
This Czech-based weapon manufacturer remains pretty unknown in Europe. During the MILIPOL company showcased multiple AR-based rifles, carbines and pistols in different calibers. Most interesting where 9x19 mm Parabellum LA-16, Soviet 7.62x39 mm LA-15 with uber-curvy magazines, 7.62x51 NATO Win LA-110 SASS precision rifle (AR10 based). The company also offers 40 mm GL-40 grenade launcher for Low Velocity ammunition, available in stand-alone or under-slung versions.
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rel. The FN SCAR-SC features telescopic stock and short e of the accessories are already available for the new rifle
HK416 F-S
HK416’s in the AIF-S and AIF-C versions delivered for French Armed Forces as a replacement for FA-MAS rifles. The French rifles will be delivered with full kit as in the pictures: rail covers, cleaning kits, slings, sights, blank firing adapters, bayonets and a batch of HK269 F 40 mm grenade launchers.
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TARA Perfection
The TARA Perfection is a lesser known weapons manufacturer from Montenegro. Their main product is the TM-4 assault rifle short-strole piston AR-style rifle. Rifles looks to be very well-made, with coldhammered barrels with Nitrex protective coating. TARA offers also a TM-9 striker fire pistol with polymer frame. It looks to be a modern, well designed pistol with pretty good ergonomics featuring innovative DARA trigger with 3 mm trigger reset. The barrel is a low-axis one, placed just 22 mm over the line of the grip. In the back of the pistol grip there is a maintenance tool for easier dissasembly.
IWI
The MILIPOL was the place of official unveiling of the latest firearms from Isreal. First was the 7.62x51 NATO TAVOR 7 bull-pup assault rifle with interchangeable barrels (17” and 20” available) due to the bull-pup configuration, the weapon’s overall length can be significantly reduced without modifying the barrel length, allowing maneuverability in CQB / confined spaces and at the same time, being lethal for long ranges. TAVOR 7 is a fully ambidextrous platform; the ejection side can be swapped rapidly and easily from side to side by the user. It is comes with MIL-STD-1913 rails on all sides allowing 100% compatibility with any available sights and/or accessories. Another premiere was the 9x19 NATO MASADA pistol with polymer frame. It is marketed as first IWI’s striker-fire pistol
(they forgot the IMI/IWI Barak failure, huh?) with some great features. Much more than just another striker-fired pistol, the MASADA features a low profile barrel for reduced perceived recoil. Fully ambidextrous controls and enhanced ergonomics which provide a natural and instinctive pointing grip angle. Three interchangeable wrap around back-straps coupled with the deep beavertail enabling the MASADA pistol to fit a wide variety of hand sizes. The MASADA trigger has an average pull from 5.5 to 7 Lb. with a clean and crisp break and a positive reset. Featuring a built-in trigger safety, the pistol will not fire unless the trigger is pulled. The shooter’s security is further enhanced during cleaning and maintenance as there is no need to pull the trigger in order to field strip the weapon. Masada’s frame is made of high strength, impact resistant fiberglass reinforced polymers.
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Benelli M4A1 is 12 gauge tactical shotgun with 460 mm long barrel. It might not be a novelty, but definitely looks sharp. The M4A1 comes with the rails on the front. The Beretta PMX is a brand new submachine gun from Beretta, designed to replace the iconic Beretta M12S. The 9x19 NATO PMX is based on the Swiss B&T P26 machine gun and will be manufactured by Beretta. The PMX uses a blowback action and fires from closed bolt. It feeds from a 30 round magazine and has a right-side folding stock. In the early days of 2018, Italian Carabinieri announced that they ordered a first batch of 1,000 PMX.
FN 509
The FN 509 is built on the proven architecture of the FNS Compact, FN made changes internally and externally to meet the rigorous performance standards of the MHS requirements and further developed the platform into the FN 509. Unfortunately for the FN, the MHS was awarded to SIG, so they decided to release the new product for other customers. Since early 2017, the pistol was available in the United States and now it will be also available for other customers, but sadly just for military and law enforcement. The 9x19 NATO FN 509 features polymer frame, cold-hammered barrel, fully ambidextrous and 17 rounds in the magazines.
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Beretta/Benelli
TARA PRECISION TM-9 SMG
Montenegrin TARA had also a third product at the stand. The TM-9 SMG is a 9x19 NATO variant of TM-4 assault rifle and it uses a blowback action and fires from closed bolt. The upper receiver is aluminum alloy forged and the lower receiver is polymer. All the controls are the very same as in bigger brother. TM-9 SMG is fed from Glock pistol magazines – 15, 17 or 30 rounds one. The length is 605 mm collapsed or 700 mm extended. TM-9 SMG has a 190 mm long barrel and weight of approx. 2.3 kilograms.
SFP-9L
The HK SFP pistols family was expanded with SFP9L (Long Slide) version with 127 mm barrel and extended slide featuring distinctive serrations in the front part. The overall length is now 209 mm and the weight is 770 grams. The SFP9L can be supplied with two different triggers, TR (30-35 N pull) or SF (20-25N pull), one of two styles of magazine release (paddle or button) and optional manual safety switch
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B&T AG
The most distinctive B&T USW A-1 and USW Compact from this Swiss company were already featured in the FRAG OUT! Magazine. But during the MILIPOL, there were another USW-family members showcased. First was USW-2022 kit for the SIG Sauer SP2002 and the second one was USW-320 for SIG Sauer P320. All feature the folded stocks with integrated mounts for Aimpoint Nano micro-RDS.
Rarog
Blain Cooper, does the name rings the bell? Yeah, that’s the Minigun guy. Or infamous Jesse Ventura. Now, if you are machine gunner, you can have the almostthe-same kit. Maybe except the Minigun. The Ukrainian company RAROG was presenting their ammunition backpack for carrying hundreds of 5.56x45 NATO, 7.62x51 NATO or even Soviet 7.62x54R. It features ammunition chute to feed the various machine guns. Even the PK/PKM guys are lucky – RAROG developed the disintegrating ammunition link for those machine guns with polymer links!
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NFM Group from Norway is expanding their latest THOR individual equipment and body armor line up and GARM clothing systems with new colorways, including the Hellhound Gray color. Gray is the new Black!
Revision
Canadian Revision is no longer a head or eye protection company. Now, their portfolio covers also COMCENTR2 HEADSET SYSTEM a sophisticated circumaural headset system that enhances awareness, enables clear communication, and provides hearing protection for dismounted close-combat operators in dense, noisecluttered environments. Four in-built microphones allows for 360 degree signal detection. Advanced ANR technology mitigates low-frequency, steady-state noise to protect hearing, reduce cognitive burden, and improve communication and speech intelligibility.
Mystery Ranch
The MILIPOL was the place of the unofficial debut of Mystery Ranch Blackjack backpacks family. These are the commercial variant of latest USSOCOM SPEAR system packs with some slight changes in the design. Officially, the packs in 50, 80 and 100 liter variants were unveiled for public during the SHOT Show 2018 in Vegas. The Blackjacks feature a Military Light Frame full carbon frame married to Dyneema-CORDURA laminate compartmens. Available in Coyote Brown and ever-popular Multicam.
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NFM Group
Quarton/Beamshot
3M/Peltor
The Beamshot Insider MFLS incorporates 2 and up to 4 different aiming and illumination combinations. The system incorporates a visible laser sight (Red or Green) with either an IR or white LED or even an IR laser sight or laser illuminator. Multifunction light modes give you the flexibility for momentary, constant on, strobe and dimmer operation ambidextrously.
Not so long ago we have featu TEP-100 electronic ear plugs fo The MILIPOL 2017 was the pl 200 version was showed. It al be received wirelessly from a n Wireless connectivity for mon phone sound sources. Two-w through shoulder microphone maintained.
Surefire
Surefire XC2 is a weaponlight as compact as the XC1, but f 650 nm wavelength red laser half hour run-time. The sealed switches.
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The Meprolight MicroRDS micro-red dot sight from the well known combat optics manufacturer. The mounting platform is attached to the iron sights post with dove tail mount and adjusted with screw. This allows to take the damaged sight off if necessary and use the iron sights.
t dedicated for Glock 19 pistol platform and concealed carry. It is features not only a 300 lumens output white light beam, but also pointer. The XC2 is single AAA battery powered and has approx. d aircraft aluminum body is rock solid and features ambidextrous
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ured the 3M/PELTOR or hearing protection. lace, where the TEPllow audio signals to neckloop accessory. nitoring radio or cell way communication es and cell phone is
Meprolight
B&T
FAB Defense
For sure you know this company from it accessories and gadgets for firearms and pistol holsters. The one of the most eye-catching new products were the MOJO AR rifles magwell extensions for easier magazine changes. They are polymer and does not require any tools. And the best thing: the front wall features 3D replaceable front “Mask” with skulls, Spartan or Crusader helmets, US Bold Eagle and more. Definitely uber-tacticool piece of gear!
The M.A.R.S. (Miniature Assault Rif ground up to be as mall, light and multi-Y endcap of the M.A.R.S. was d operator a whole new level of muzzle a new sniper rifle suppressor for the the system specifications for the sup of muzzle flash suppression. While th requirement, our engineering team di the development another step furthe shot» sniper rifle to fully automatic muzzle flash suppression even mor announced that USMC is interested in
Renault/Ford
Except the Ranger pick up truck (the unavailable in the US, but coming in Everest. This one was sold only to Asi Trucks Defense won a French Armed purpose vehicle program aimed to 4x4 vehicles. Ford Everest, sold und become the standard utility vehicle i vehicles will be delivered till the end version of Everest, the RDT/ACMAT h enforcement version of the car.
TAR IDEAL
Na twoim hełmie brakuje szyn Missing the accessory rails or night vision shroud on your old and not-so-cool helmet? The TAR IDEAL from Israel offers flexible polymer rails add-ons. Need some more space? You can X-cross two of those! The rail features the NVD shroud, GoPro camera mounting point and some short MIL-STD-1913 rails.
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e smaller brother of F-150, now 2019) has its SUV-twin named ian market, but in 2016 Renault d Forces VTLP NP utility multireplaced the old Peugot P4 der the ACMAT brand, will now in French Army. 3,700 of those d of 2019. Except the “military” have developed the police/law
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fle Suppressor) was designed from the effective assault rifle suppressor. New developed from the ground up to give the flash reduction. B&T recently developed e German Army Special Forces. One of ppressor was the highest possible level he B&T suppressors completely met this id not rest on this achievement, but took er, adapting the flash hider from a «one assault rifles, while also improving the re. During the SHOT Show 2018, it was n purchasing M.A.R.S. suppressors.
UF PRO
Slovenian UF PRO Ace Winter Combat Shirt developed for winter use as the name implies. It’s intended to keep your arms warm in cold weather, yet allow plenty of ventilation when you are active. The arm sections are insulated with G-LOFT synthetic insulation while the torso is made from a wind-proof and wate-repellant breathable laminate. On the inner isde it’s lined with Merino and polyester fabric. Venitilation is provided by underarm and an asymmetric front zippers. Additionally, the zippered mid-chest pockets offer ventilation as well. Since it’s UF PRO, they’ve also incorporated their 8mm AirPac inserts at the shoulders.
KROKO
Chorwacka firma KROKO Tactical przedstawiła kilka interesujących rozwiązań w dziedzinie wyposażenia indywidualnego, takich jak różnego typu plate carriery oraz szeroką gamę plecaków o różnej pojemności, wykorzystujących zarówno nowoczesne laserowo wycinane laminaty, jak i klasyczne taśmy MOLLE/PALS oraz np. klamry szybkowyczepne 2M ROC zbliżone ideą do FirstSpear Tubes. Jednym z najciekawszym elementów prezentowanych na stoisku były też kangurki w zimowym kamuflażu z dużą kieszenią na przedzie umożliwiającą dostęp do wyposażenia przenoszonego pod narzutką.
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The Adventure Tech company of Canada, best known from it its VIP strobe lights developed a helmet mounted single CR123 powered TRILOBYTE multi-functional visible and IR IFF strobe. It seems that S&S Precision Manta and CORE Survival HEL-STAR 6 will have a strong non-ITAR competition.
Firstspear
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Adventure Tech
FirstSpear presented the MultiMag Rapid-Adjust™ Pocket multi-purpose ammunition or utility pouches with BOA adjustable tension system. Basically, it’s an leaping improvement over the classic and proven HSGI TACO pouches. The interior of the pouches can be adjusted with dedicated Kydex insert for pistol magazines. Items carried inside might be secured with optional shock-cord pull-tabs.
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or a long time, the Persian Gulf countries have been serving the leading role in extraction and distribution of crude oil, which makes them dictate the conditions for development of the global fuel industry. For the last couple of years, they have also been serving the leading role in... aviation industry. Story and photos by: Monika Hryniewicz
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he countries of the Persian Gulf expand their airports to become huge hubs. They surround those facilities with the highest-quality aviation infrastructure, equip their national airlines with the most modern airliners in numbers that make people’s head spin – this is how they compete among themselves to become the capital of communication aviation in the Middle East.
The Gulf countries have also dominated the tives of the aviation industry, the most importsector of air shows – the world-famous Dubai ant manufacturers and the largest companies in Air Show brings to UAE the leading representa- the world.
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The 15th Dubai Air Show took place from 12 to 16 November 2017, at the Dubai World Central airport. It is the biggest event of that type in the region. Since several years, it has also been widely recognized outside the Middle East. Dubai Air Show is a highly appreciated expo that most certainly draws the attention among professional as an event with huge potential and momentum. Known for its prestige, huge budget and record-breaking orders, every two years the fair brings more and more exhibitors, manufacturers, and visitors to Dubai. Within 645 000 m2 the organizers gathered almost 1200 exhibitors from all over the world (30% of which were from Europe) and about 160 state-of-theart civilian and military aircraft. The astonishing number of about 80,000 visitors and orders for the total amount of almost 113.8 billion US dollars – that is the result of the five-day exhibition. The number of aircrafts ordered during Dubai Air Show 2017 and the value of those orders is, to say the least, astounding. Airbus signed letters of intent for sales of 510 aircrafts – 430 of them were ordered by Indigo Partners, which provides aircrafts for airlines such as Wizz Air, Frontier, or Volaris. Already on the first day of the fair, Boeing signed a contract with Emirates for a delivery of forty most modern Boeing 787-100 Dreamliners.
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he value of the contract was 15 billion US dollars. The Azerbaijan national operator also ordered five of those, but in their smaller version, i.e. 787-800. Fly Dubai ordered 225 Boeing 737 MAX for the total value of approx 27 billion US dollars.
15th Dubai Air Show was inaugurated by the emir of Dubai, the Vice-President of the United Arab Emirates, Muhammad ibn Rashid Al Maktum who, as usual, visited the area of the event with his entourage and a group of local notables. The Sunday opening ceremony featured a flight of
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a formation of aircrafts that included: an Airbus A380 of Emirates, a Boeing 777, which also belonged to the Dubai operator, and they were accompanied by 7 Aermacchi MB-339NAT of the Al Fursan aerobatics demonstration team of UAE Air Force. Each day featured a specially prepared 3-hour dynamic program, which involved presentations of aircrafts such as: Airbus A350 XWB, Beriev BE200 ES and Antonov ANT 132, Suchoj Su-35, F-16, F-22, Gripen, Rafale, Mirage 2000, or PAC JF-17 Thunder. Presentations also included helicopters – Turkey exhibited the TAI T129 ATAK attack helicopter, while the Ukrainian Motor Sich promoted Mi-2 and Mi-8MSB-T helicopters. To add some variety to the exhibitions of single aircrafts, the show included performances by aerobatics demonstration teams: Al Fursan, Russkije Witiazi of the Russian Air Force, and the August 1st team of the People’s Republic of China Air Force. Among 159 aircrafts gathered on the tarmac of the Al Maktum airport (Dubai World Central) that formed the static exhibition of Dubai Air Show, people could admire both military helicopters and aircrafts as well as flagships of the local airlines and private business jets of their leading manufacturers. The Air Forces of the United Arab Emirates exhibited their helicopters: AW139, AH-64D Apache,
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and CH-47F Chinook as well as F-16 and Mirage 2000 fighters. The long-term ally of the UAE – USAF, was represented by: Lockheed Martin KC-130J, Boeing E-3 Sentry, Boeing F-15E Strike Eagle, Lockheed Martin F-16C Fighting Falcon, Lockheed Martin F-22A Raptor and helicopters: Sikorsky CH-53 Super Stallion, MV-22 Osprey, and Sikorsky MH-60S.
Japanese Air Force made its debut by presenting, for the first time on the international scene, the Kawasaki C-2 cargo aircraft, which was brought to service in the middle of 2016. Airbus exhibited A350 XWB and A319 airliners, as well as C295 CASA and A400M Atlas military aircraft. Russians presented Suchoj Superjet 100. Emirates Airline showed two flagship aircrafts representing the fleet – Airbus A380-800 and Boeing 777-300ER. The visitors could also see
the redesigned economic passenger compartment of Boeings, as well as the brand-new concept of the First Class, which was designed in cooperation with Mercedes-Benz, the so-called Private Suit. Dubai Air Show also served for the purpose of inauguration of the Emirates Flight Training Academy. The national operator of the UAE, Etihad, presented Airbus A380, which also was facilitated with a private on-board apartment – The Residence. The show also featured an Airbus A320.
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Dubai Air Show 2017 was dominated by business jets. All manufacturers of such aircrafts came to Dubai to present and sell their products. Embraer showed Legacy 500, Legacy 650E, and Lineage 1000E. Gulfstream presented G650ER, G550 ER, G550, and G280. The static exhibition also included aircrafts such as Bombardier Global 6000, Cessna Citation X, Cessna Citation Latitude, Dassault Falcon 900EX and Hondajet HA-420.
I
t was quite a lucky strike for the visitors to the show to have the opportunity of seeing Boeing 787 Dream Jet, the only private Dreamliner by Deer Jet in the world.
Bombardier Global Express was also extremely popular due to its unusual, pretty unique diamond paintwork of the company Jean Boulle Luxury.
The first Dubai Air Show took place in 1986 and its name was Arab Air. The event has evolved throughout the years, becoming a brand in itself, recognizable all over the world. It invariably draws the attention of large groups of professionals, traders, exhibitors, and other businessmen interested in the aviation industry.
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F-16
Latest Upda Lockheed Martin started transition of manufacturing equipment from Fort Worth to Greenville, where in 2019 the F-16V will be assembled. First customer for F-16V is Bahrain. Photo: Lockheed Martin
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dates
Story by: Ĺ ukasz Pacholski
On 15th September 2017, the Lockheed Martin officially unveiled the final F-16 Fighting Falcon fighter assembled in the plant in Fort Worth, Texas. The aircraft will be delivered to Iraqi Air Force.
AVIATION
Fighting Falcon Program
It is the last from 36 aircraft ordered by Iraqi government. The delivery is scheduled for early 2018 according to Foreign Military Sales agreements. Due the low level of Iraqi pilot skills, two fighters were lost in training accidents in United States, were the pilot’s training takes place. As most of the recent F-16’s, the Iraqi fighters are Block 52 standard. The total number of fighters in different variants built in Forth Worth plant is 3,640 units. First was completed in December 1973. In the peak of production, 1987, the 286 planes were built. Except the Texas plant, which
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belong to General Dynamics later acquired by Lockheed Martin, the F-16 fighters were also built in few different locations worldwide. In the Netherlands it was Fokker (until 1992), SABCA in Belgium (until 1991), Samsung in South Korea (until 2003) and Turkish Aerospace Industries (until 2012). Due the lack of export orders, since 2007 the number of manufactured planes was decreasing below 30 units each year. The F-16 fighters were delivered to the air forces of 27 countries in total. In May 2017, Lockheed Martin announced moving the production line from Fort Worth
Iraq purchased 36 F-16C/D fighters. That was a last export order for Fort Worth plant. Photo: Lockheed Martin
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Mexico are discussing potential procurement of F-35’s. On 8th September 2017, US Department of State announced approval for two export sales of Lockheed Martin F-16V Fighting Falcon fighters and upgrade kits to Bahrain. As part of the first, the 19 fighters plus three F-110GE-129 engines, AN/APG-83 radar stations, MMC computer and EGNS/LN260EGI will be delivered. The whole package will cost 2.8 billion US dollars including logistic support and training suite. Additionally, Bahrain want to
AVIATION
to Greenvile and it all started just after the finalization of Iraqi order. The Fort Worth plant will soon become a main assembly center for the F-35 Lighting II fighters which soon will enter the full-scale production. This requires the same workspace and personnel, which was involved in the manufacturing of F-16’s. According to announcement, the transition will take approx. two years and Lockheed Martin plans to exploit this time to receive foreign contracts. First customer will be Bahrain, but sales were offered to Croatia and Bulgaria. Also, India, Romania, Poland, Columbia, Pakistan and
upgrade all F-16C/D Block 40 fighters to F-16V standard. In 1990-2000, Bahrain received 22 aircraft (18 F-16C and 4 F-16D), but two were lost in accidents. This upgrade package will cost 1.1 billion US dollars. For longer time, Bahrain was mentioned as possible first customer for brand new F-16V aircraft and upgrade packages. Finally, on 17th October 2017, during the BIDEC 2017 expo, Bahrain announced signing up of F-16V purchase agreement. These fighters will become main combat asset of Bahrain Air Force in the first half of 21st century. 16 brand new fighters will be purchased for the 3.8 billion US dollars. To this moment, neither
Lockheed Martin nor US Government involved due the FMS program, had not commented the announced decision. It is possible that the amount covers both purchase of brand new fighters and the upgrade of old ones. On the very same day, the US Department of State announced approval for sale of F-16V upgrade packages for F-16C/D fighters to Greece. In the public submission which was submitted by Greece to US Congress, Greeks declare intent of upgrading 123 F-16C/D fighters. The approx. cost of the upgrade is 2.4 billion US dollars and presumably, it will be partially funded likely by selling the excessive planes to Croatia. What is more interesting,
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Greece government announced the cost of the deal as 1.3 billion US dollars. According to the submission, the 125 AN/APG-83 radars (two spares), 123 MMC computers, 123 Link 16 MIDSJTRS systems, 123 EGI/INS navigation systems and iPDG generators would be also ordered. The package should also include IFF systems, single JMPS, and F-16V simulator. The currently owned two F-16 simulators will be upgraded to F-16V standard, and the ASPIS I self-defense suite will be upgraded to ASPIS II.
service time. This means that approx. 30 planes will not be upgraded and will be probably sold to allied countries. According to some local sources, those 30 planes might the most recent Block 52+/52+ Advanced left intentionally without upgrades.
In case of Croatia procurement, we may witness an interesting competition. On the one hand, the US Government may offer latest F-16V, on the other, Greece and Israel may offer secondhand F-16C/D. The Croatia will decide about the In 1988-2010, Greece has purchased 170 purchase in the end of the year. F-16C/D. 40 were Block 30, 50 Block 59, 60 Block 52, 10 Block 52+ and 30 Block 52+ Advanced. Approx. 16 were lost during the
AVIATION
Last F-16 Fighting Falcon from plant in Fort Worth, Texas will be delivered to Iraqi Air Force. It is Block 52 standard version. Photo: USAF
Poland is now experiencing the giant strides towards withdrawing Mi-14 helicopters from naval aviation. For years, Mi-14s have been used for ASW and SAR missions as true workhorses, capable to operate in difficult weather conditions over Baltic Sea. 12 Mi-14PĹ and 4 Mi-14PS were purchased in the former USSR at the beginning of the 1980s. It was a significant enhacement of combat capabilities of the Naval Aviation at that time.
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AVIATION
At the end of the 1950s, USSR experts noticed that the Mi-4M ASW (NATO Code Hound-C) helicopters developed from the Mi-4A (Hound) transport helicopter no longer meet the requirements, mainly due to the fact they had single piston engine. It resulted in low lifting capacity, as well as pose of a threat during flights over water – a failure of engine would lead to a catastrophe. Meanwhile, the Western Countries introduced Sikorsky SH-3A Sea King with a twin-turboshaft engine, with an amphibious hull and deployable floats on pylons of the main undercarriage, which allowed for emergency landing on water and evacuation of the crew. Given the example, Soviets decided to redesign the popular Mi-8 (Hip) utility helicopter. The bottom part of the hull was designed from scratch, in the shape of a boat, with retractable landing gear, and redesigned hydraulics and electric installation. The works also covered development of new radio equip-
ment. The design process assumed application of new TW3-117 engines that would replace TW-2-117. Initially, the project was approved in 1966. A year later, the goal of commenced works was to create, first of all, a basic ASW version (Mi-14PŁ – Haze-A), and then another one intended for SAR missions (Haze-C), which happened in 1970. Both versions served as the basis for constructing the Mi-14BT (Haze-B) mine sweeping helicopter in 1975. The first flights of the new helicopter, the initial name of which was to be W-8G (G stood for “hydro” in Russian spelling – “gidro”) took place in 1967. However, the final name of the prototype was W-14. Due to the lack of new engines, the designers used the TW-2-117 both in the prototype as well as in the helicopters of the first test production series that, by the way, were rebuilt in Kazan from Mi-8T. The serial production began in 1973 in Kazan, no sooner than after development of TW-3-117 engines and drive
Mi-14PŁ A-1001, Płock, 02.06.2009 – helicopter in special paint theme for 50 years anniversary of Polish Naval Aviation in Darlowo.
Mi-14PŁ A-1001, Darłowo, 21.06.2016 – helicopter during the flight to the are of operation. Bomb bay doors are opened.
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AVIATION
Mi-14PŁ A-1003 i A-1002, 30.06.2013, somewhere near the Slowiński National Park. Two helicopters from the first batch return from the training flight. The ASW equipment is clearly visible: APM-60 magnetometer and OKA-2M/Z submersible sonar on the bottom of the hull.
Mi-14PŁ A-1002, Darłowo, 15.07.2010 – just after sunrise, helicopter after 3rd main maintenance is being prepared for the flight
trains with a WR-14 main transmission and after completion of the long stage of trials of the construction and the Kalmar submarine detection system. On 11 May 1976, Mi-14PŁ was approved to be introduced into service of the Navy by resolution of the USSR Council of Ministers. What is interesting, the program of naval helicopter resulted in modernization of Mi-8, which was received TW-3-117 engines and a WR-14 main transmission and, thanks to that, it became a Mi-8M, i.e. Mi-17/171/172. It’s still in the production.
Mi-14 in Polish Naval Aviation
fied export version of Mi-4M), had to choose the new carrier for ASW systems. The decision to purchase Mi-14PŁ helicopters was. A group of aviation crews and technicians was selected to take part in a training that started in July and ended in December 1977 at the Donskoye air base in the USSR. Due to financial problems, the new helicopters weren’t purchased straight away. The decision was postponed for three years. As a result, it was necessary to conduct another training for crews and technicians. It took place in Donskoye, this time from 17 November 1980 to 23 May 1981.
Two batches of helicopters were purchased – the first In the middle of the 1970s, the decision-makers responsi- batch was produced between April and June 1980 and feable for combat systems of the Polish Navy, having a rapidly tured flat, round windows on sides of the hull (they were ageing “fleet” of four Mi-4ME ASW helicopters (a simpli- replaced with convex ones during overhauls), low doors
of the life-raft on the left side of the hull, a rectangular hollow with rounded ends for the raft discharge grip in the bottom left part of the hull, and an ŁPG-2 winch with the mechanism located outside the hull. On 15 July 1981, six Mi-14PŁ helicopters (serial no. A-1001 to A-1006) were approved and delivered 28th Rescue Squadron in Darłowo. Although the helicopters were brand-new, they had been used for training purposes of Polish crews. That is why they already had 80-190 hours of flying time. The second batch (serial no. A-1007 - A-1012) was produced between July and September 1983. Those helicopters featured rectangular doors covering the life-raft. The doors were higher and had a round hollow for the discharge grip, in its left bottom part. The winch was replaced with upgraded ŁPG-150 with mechanism in an aerodynamic fairing on the outside of the hull. Contrary to the first version, helicopters had convex side-windows. All helicopters were delivered from the USSR through a flight to Darłowo. They were marked with red stars that were later on replaced with the Polish Air Force “checkerboards”. They were given serial numbers at the manufacturer. Each number consisted of the recipient’s code (A-10 for Poland) and two numerals standing for the consecutive helicopter in the series. The side numbers consisted of the last four numerals of the serial number and were painted on the tail boom.
Mi-14PŁ A-1005, Darłowo, 17.02.2010 – helicopter during the engine test. The details of the front undercarriage and the Polish national marking on the bomb bay doors are clearly visible. The shark’s jaw was hand-painted!
Mi-14PŁ A-1005, Darłowo, 28.03.2012 – helicopter during engine test jaw on A-1005 was the last one painted on the Mi-14PŁ. The yellow ico radiation warning sign. It was painted in wrong way during the mainten – the background of the sign should be red.
As the new helicopters were introduced into service, the unit was restructured: the 28th Rescue Squadron was transformed into the 16th Special Naval Air Regiment. In February 1984, the unit received Mi-14PS with numbers from A-1013 to A-1016. During the use of helicopters, two Mi-14PŁ (A-1006, A-1004) and two Mi-14PS were lost due to accidents. The loss of ASW helicopters were less significant than in the case of SAR ones. That is why in order to mitigate the outcome, Mi-14PŁ A-1003 was provisionally adopted for rescue missions. Additional headlights were embedded in the side floats and on the frame that covered the APM60 nacelle and an ARK-U2 radio compass for searching shipwrecked survivors. The helicopter, unofficially named
Mi-14PŁ A-1012, Darłowo, 03.10.2005 – helicopter during take-of after each service and maintenance works or replacing parts of en ted on the side is clearly visible. Up to end of use of Mi-14PŁ, the and the IFF system was not upgraded (see the old type antenna un Mi-14PŁ A-1010 can be seen.
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t. The shark’s on is microwave nance
ff for control flight. The control flights are necessary ngine or steering. The killer whale in its final shape painKF wire antennas were never installed on this helicopter nder the tail and over the cockpit). In the background the
Mi-14PX, only allowed training of crews and maintaining of habits. Unfortunately, it was not capable of serving during actual rescue operations. That is why a decision was made in 1990 to purchase a used Mi-14PS no. 75137, which was delivered to Poland after the first general overhaul in the USSR. It was delivered through a flight on 12 November to the airport in Siemirowice, while all the necessary equipment was delivered on board of An-12 aircraft. Because of the short runway in Darłowo, the equipment was handed over at the airport in Siemirowice. What is interesting, the helicopter reached Poland without country markings. When used by Russians, the helicopter was equipped with FPP-7 headlights developed on sides of the hull in a configuration typical for Mi-14PŁ. During the first general overhaul, the nooks of those lights where covered with dural patches, while the headlights were moved to the fairing developed in front of the crew compartment. WPF-3-600 headlights typical for Mi-14PS were not used – they were installed in Poland. In the front part, under each of the sponsons, two FPP-7 headlights were added in order to mitigate the lack of WPFs. A completely different type of IFF system (Parol) was installed in the helicopter. During the renovations works in Russia, the helicopter underwent modifications up to the standards used for the search of returning astronauts. The modifications did not include only the holes for additional windows under the cockpit. During the serivce, Polish Mi-14 helicopters were subjected to modifications in order to improve the ASW and SAR capabilities. Apart from the slight transformation of Mi-14PŁ into PX, described above, in the 1990s the helicopters were equipped with various types of GPS navigation systems and the RS-6106-7 radio. Mi-14 helicopters underwent the first major modification during the general overhauls at WZL-1 Łódź. The end of the 1990s forced the Polish Armed Forces to adapt the helicopters to NATO standards. That was the time of a two-stage modification of Mi-14s. The first stage involved replacement of communication systems, the IFF system, and addition of new navigation systems (GPS, VOR/ TACAN/ DME), as well as a modification of the OKA-2 sonar. The second stage focused on modernization of the ASW system, data link, the magnetometer, and adaptations to allow use of NATO torpedoes.
AVIATION
Mi-14PŁ A-1003, Darłowo, 17.08.2004 – preparing for landing. The rotor blades are light gray-blue painted and during the use they are coated with the dirt, that’s why the color is not solid. The side number was re-painted to navy blue. It was a pretty good choice as it is now clearly visible on the background of saturated camouflage paint.
Mi-14PŁ A-1007 was chosen as the prototype. It was handed over to WZL-1 Łódź on 26 April 1999. Similarly to other helicopter of the 2nd series, it was completely modified by changing the anti-submarine equipment from Kalmar to Kryl-lot system. (contrary to the 1st series, which only received communication system, GPS Garmin 155XL, a modernized sonar OKA-2M/Z, and a hydrophone HTL-10).
ASW, protection of territorial waters and offshore pipelines have already been greatly affected. Naval Aviation is slowly becoming irrelevant. All we can do is hope that the process will be reversed and the trained crews and ground personnel will not leave upon the expiry of service life of the last Mi-14…
More information on Polish Mi-14 can be found in the book All helicopters were adopted to use Eurotorp MU 90 Imtitled “Mi-14PŁ/Mi-14PS/ Mi-14PŁ/R” which is a part of pact torpedoes. During general overhauls, Mi-14PS unthe series Polish Wings, No. 14 published by Stratus. derwent modifications of communication systms, IFF, GPS, VOR/TAC/DME similar to Mi-14PŁ from the 1st series. By the end of 2010, due to the expiry of service life of the airframes, all Mi-14PS helicopters were grounded and retired from service. Due to a lack of decision regarding the purchase of new naval helicopters and the need for ensuring continuity of sea rescue, two Mi-14PŁ were adopted for SAR operations. During the general overhaul at WZL-1 on A-1012 and A-1009, the ASW equipment was replaced with SAR one. This ncluded wide side doors and air-conditioning of the cargo compartment on the outside of the hull. An SŁP-350 winch with load capacity of 300 kg was also developed. The radio and navigation equipment were modernized as well. Helicopters called Mi-14PŁ/R were equipped with BURAN-A meteorological radars as well as DF430 radio compasses used to seek for shipwrecked survivors.
Thanks to those improvements, the final helicopter had features similar to the original Mi-14PS.
Currently, due to expiry of the life service, all Mi-14PŁ helicopters from the 1st series and one Mi-14PŁ/R were retired. The second and the last Mi-14PŁ/R will be dismissed in May 2018. Naval Aviation will be left without helicopters capable of rescuing a dozen of survivors, which in the case of a larger maritime catastrophe might significantly disrupt or prevent the rescue mission. The capabilities of
Mi-14PŁ/R A-1012, Darłowo, 02.02.2012 – dynamic take-off during the winter. Mi-14PŁ and Mi-14PS were not based in hangars which does not have negative influence on their flight capabilities. The SLP-350 winch system with LPG-300 winch is clearly visible. The winch is the very same as in Mi-14PS, but the mounting assembly is completely different one.
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Mi-14PŁ A-1011, Darłowo, 08.08.2007 – helicopter during adjustment of balance the rotor blades.
AVIATION
Mi-14PŁ A-1010, Darłowo, 14.08.2008 – helicopter during the AI-9 APU launch. During the service of this particular helicopter, the ŁEBA tactical situation system was installed in the cabin crew, just behind the front window. Under the wipers, there are not secured antenna slots of the SRZO-2 IFF device which was uninstalled.
Mi-14PS A-1016, Darłowo, 05.01.2009 – tarmac. The front is covered. Back part o is clearly visible. The upper hatch was co crew rescue boat, and the lower hatch ( from the inside of the cargo compartmen used to carry rescue boats and for towin -14PL/R does not have such capabilities. on the right side were used to drop OMA bombs. During the modernization proces -vibration device was installed in the roto the power collector cover was enlarged t te the Garmin 155XL GPS. Second GPS r the Koden 911 was also installed. This pa helicoptered featured new KHF-950 radi replaced the old Karat-24 radio, but still the old wire antennas.
Mi-14PŁ/R A-101 – underbelly. In t and BURAN-2 w float there are t light under the s Mi-14PS 75137, the headlights m
Mi-14PS A-1013, Darłowo, 17.07.2009 – dynamic fly-by over the tarmac. On the right side of aircraft there are two fuel fillers marked with yellow circles. This painting was done with use of polyurethane durable paints during 3rd main maintenance. The Mi-14PS during the SAR duty required only 10 minutes from call to take-off, no matter it was day or night or the weather conditions were extreme (snowstorms). And they were based outdoors!
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AVIATION
– on the of the hull overing the (opened nt) was ng. MiThe slots AB marking ss, the antior axis and to facilitareceiver, articular io which l was using Mi-14PŁ A-1011, Darłowo, 07.12.2012 – ground personnel is preparing helicopter for take-off.
12, Darłowo, 21.02.2013 the front there is a N/O system weather radar cover. Under right to FPP-7 headlights to provide side doors (these come from , which was the only one that had mounted under both floats
Mi-14PS 75137, Darłowo, 02.09.2008 – helicopter carrying the rescue boat. Mi-14PS could carry cargo loads up to 3000 kilograms externally. The interior of the cargo compartment is clearly visible Retiring of Polish Mi-14PS- 07.08.2012 . Transport to Polish Air Force Museum in Deblin.
Mi-14PS A-1013, Darłowo, 13.05.2009 – hovering helicopter is using a winch to pick up rescueman with wounded person on the stretched. The station of the crewman using the LPG-300 winch is clearly visible. The crewman was strapped to the line inside the cargo bay, which prevented him against falling out of the board. During the rescue operations, the mechanic was giving the commands to the personnel, as his position provided best field of view. The wire antennas of the KHF-950 radio are visible as same as the details of the bottom of the hull.
Mi-14PS A-1016, Darłowo, 30.07.2007 – together with other Mi-14s on the tarmac. Except the fact that the very same paint theme was used, there are some slight differences in the angles. #75137 helicopter featured wider black strap to prevent against the exhaustion fumes. The A-1016 was the only one aircraft without black painted straps in front of the TW-3-117M air inlets. The #75137 did not have VOR/TAC/DME system installed.
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1.
n/s
Data produkcji
n/b
Data oblotu
Nalot w chwili dostawy
Remont główny I RG
IIRG
IIIRG
A-1001
22.04.1980 r.
15.07.1981 r.
24.02.1988 r.
06.09.1994 r.
01.04.2004 r.
31.05.1980 r.
126,46 h
25.08.1988 r.
07.09.1995 r.
25.06.2008 r.
1001 A-1002
27.04.1980 r.
15.07.1981 r.
22.08.1985 r.
28.08.1993 r.
25.02.2002 r.
31.05.1980 r.
191,35 h
17.03.1986 r.
27.12.1993 r.
08.12.2006 r.
1002
A-1003
30.05.1980 r.
15.07.1981 r.
27.03.1989 r.
06.11.1995 r.
01.04.2004 r.
31.05.1980 r.
83,45 h
02.11.1989 r.
05.12.1996 r.
15.12.2008 r.
1004 A-1004
30.05.1980 r.
15.07.1981 r.
20.11.1989 r.
-
-
31.05.1980 r.
Brak danych
23.06.1990 r.
-
-
1004 A-1005
25.06.1980 r.
15.07.1981 r.
19.05.1987 r.
25.01.1994 r.
28.05.2003 r.
30.06.1980 r.
167,18 h
26.01.1988 r.
16.12.1994 r.
02.08.2007 r.
1005
A-1006
10.06.1980 r.
15.07.1981 r.
-
-
-
18.06.1980 r.
Brak danych
-
-
-
1006 A-1007
-
29.10.1983 r.
11.10.1990 r.
26.04.1999 r.
11.06.2010 r.
31.07.1983 r.
-
16.06.1991 r.
03.08.2000 r.
12.07.2013 r.
1007 A-1008
23.07.1983 r.
29.10.1983 r.
16.06.1993 r.
22.04.2002 r.
05.10.2012 r.
18.08.1983 r.
27,10 h
14.07.1994 r.
22.09.2005 r.
10.10.2014 r.
1008 A-1009
11.08.1983 r.
29.10.1983 r.
14.10.1993 r.
06.06.2008 r.
-
Brak danych
15.02.1995 r.
12.05.2011 r.
-
2.
3. 4.
5.
6. 7. 8. 9.
1009
10. 11. 12. 13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
Uwagi SRR, Zakład y Mi-14PŁ (I seria), I RG w ZSRR (Ukraińska 1 Łódź). Poddany w Sewastopolu), II i III RG w Polsce (WZLatacji 18.09.2016 r. częściowej modernizacji. Wyco fany z eksplo h 3127 m nalote z SRR, Zakład y Mi-14PŁ (I seria), I RG w ZSRR (Ukraińska na Ukrainie(Zak łady w Sewastopolu), II RG po rozpadzie ZSRR 1). Poddany częSAP w Sewastopolu), III RG w Polsce (WZLatacji 20.08.2014 r. ściowej modernizacji. Wyco fany z eksplo z nalotem 3243 h ińska SRR, Zakład y Mi-14PŁ (I seria), ), I RG w ZSRR (Ukra 1 Łódź). Poddany w Sewastopolu), II i III RG w Polsce (WZLatacji 27.08.2016 r. częściowej modernizacji. Wyco fany z eksplo h 3418 m z nalote SRR, Zakład y Mi-14PŁ(I seria), I RG w ZSRR (Ukraińska r. w Sewastopolu), utracony 14.09.1994
AVIATION
Lp
Data dostawy do Polsk i
SRR, Zakład y Mi-14PŁ (I seria), I RG w ZSRR (Ukraińska na Ukrainie(Zak łady w Sewastopolu), II RG po rozpadzie ZSRR 1). Poddany częSAP w Sewastopolu), III RG w Polsce (WZLatacji 20.04.2015 r. eksplo z fany Wyco ji. rnizac mode ej ściow z nalotem 3211 h r. W maju 1983 r. Mi-14PŁ (I seria), utracony 15.06.1983 h. śmigłowiec posiadał nalot całkow ity 244 SRR, Zakład y Mi-14PŁ(II seria), I RG w ZSRR (Ukraińska 1 Łódź)-II RG protow Sewastopolu), ), II i III RG w Polsce (WZLny pełnej modernipodda IIIRG as Podcz ji, rnizac mode j pełne typ owa. docel a zacji- wersj ny pełnej modernizaMi-14PŁ (II seria), I , Iii III RG WZL-1. Podda cji- wersja docelowa.
A-1010
18.08.1983 r.
29.10.1983 r.
28.08.1993 r.
14.06.2000 r.
11.06.2010 r.
31.08.1983 r.
23,28 h
14.12.1993 r.
20.12.2001 r.
25.05.2012 r.
1010 A-1011
23.08.1983 r.
29.10.1983 r.
09.07. 1991 r.
13.11.2000 r.
11.06.2010 r.
31.08.1983 r.
21,10 h
09.09.1993 r.
21.02.2002 r.
20.12.2012 r.
1011 A-1012
09.09.1983 r.
29.10.1983 r.
19.06.1990 r.
01.09.1997 r.
11.04.2008 r.
29.09.1983 r.
31,41 h
30.01.1991 r.
12.03.1999 r.
29.10.2010 r.
1012 A-1013
12.12.1983 r.
27.02.1984 r.
31.08.1990 r.
01.07.1996 r.
26.09.2003 r.
-
24,55 h
05.07.1991 r.
05.09.1997 r.
04.12.2004 r.
1013 A-1014
20.12.1983 r.
27.02.1984 r.
-
-
-
-
Brak danych
-
-
-
1014
A-1015
22.12.1983 r.
27.02.1984 r.
-
-
-
-
Brak danych
-
-
-
1015
A-1016
23.12.1983 r.
27.02.1984 r.
06.12.1989 r.
02.03.1995 r.
11.10.2002 r.
-
21,29 h
28.08.1990 r.
02.02.1996 r.
24.09.2003 r.
1016
75137
29.01.1983 r.
23.11.1990 r.
-
02.02.1994 r.
27.06.2001 r.
-
898,16 h
22.10.1990 r.
03.03.1995 r.
11.10.2002 r.
5137
20.09.2001 r. do Mi-14PŁ (II seria), ), I i II RG WZL-1. Od any podczas II RG na 06.06.2008 depoz yt w WZL-1, Przebudow PŁ/R. MI-14 ę wersj na Ukrainie (Zakłady Mi-14PŁ (II seria), I RG po rozpadzie ZSRR e (WZL-1 Łódź). Poddany SAP w Sewastopolu), II i III RG w Polsc pełnej modernizacji. na Ukrainie(Zak łady Mi-14PŁ(II seria), I RG po rozpadzie ZSRR e (WZL-1 Łódź). Poddany SAP w Sewastopolu), II i III RG w Polsc pełnej modernizacji. ińska SRR, Zakład y Mi-14PŁ(II seria), ), I RG w ZSRR (Ukra 1 Łódź). Przebudowaw Sewastopolu), II i III RG w Polsce (WZLPŁ/R. MI-14 ę wersj na RG III as ny podcz Zakład y w SewastoMi-14PS, I RG w ZSRR (Ukraińska SRR, poddany modernizacji. polu), II i III RG w Polsce (WZL-1 Łódź), z nalotem 3065 h Wyco fany z eksploatacji 12.12.2010 r. Mi-14PS, utracony 15.11.1988 r.
Mi-14PS, utracony 10.05.198 7r.
Zakłady w Sewastopolu), Mi-14PS, I RG w ZSRR (Ukraińska SRR, modernizacji. Wycofany ny podda Łódź), 1 II i III RG w Polsce (WZLh. z eksploatacji 14.01.2010r. z nalotem 2990
Zakłady w Sewastopolu), Mi-14PS, I RG w ZSRR (Ukraińska SRR, częściowej modernizacji. ny podda Łódź), 1 (WZLPolsce II i III RG w m 2938 h. nalote z r. .2008 05.11 Wycofany z eksploatacji
www.fabrykabroni.pl Zapraszamy do odwiedzenia naszego stoiska podczas MSPO 2017 w Kielcach.
BERYL.
SPRAWDZONY W BOJU. BATTLE PROVEN.
Story by/photos: Michał Sitarski, Piotr Walerysiak
What the Walther P99 pistol is, everyone saw and heard. There were some troubles with this pistol in the past, that became big thing after accident in Polish Police. From last six months we had a chance to play with two FB Radom manufactured P99’s and today we can say something more about them.
Walther P99 are so well-
back and despite most factors indi-
weapon itself. What’s more, acci-
known that there is no need to de-
cated that this was not the cause of
dents like that, happens all the time
scribe it in details. Both pistols
the accident, manufactured decided
with different firearms, so if we take
that we have used comes with An-
to upgrade it anyway. We will not
into consideration how many P99’s
ti-Stress (AS) trigger and both came
debate here about mentioned acci-
are currently in use and how many
from the same batch, where slide
dent, but we think that it was caused
of accidents happened (supposedly
back plate is steel. This is the con-
rather by way of use, advancement
two), we will see that this firearm is
struction element that caused most
of wear and applying to the manu-
not particularly dangerous.
controversies after accident that
facture’s recommendations about
We shoot throughout couple of
happened to a police office a while
how firearm should be used than the
months from P99AS with steel back
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neglected discharges when police
ger remains in the forward position
officer in high-stress pulls the trig-
for the first shot and the Anti Stress
ger accidentally by few millimeters.
mode is activated. The trigger travel
Opinions about this trigger mecha-
is 14 mm (0.55 in) long in the Anti
nism are different. Couple of years
Stress mode at approximately 20
ago (something around 2010) we’ve
N (4.5 lbf) trigger pull. On all sub-
shot from P99AS and it was just
sequent shots, the P99AS is auto-
bad...
matically pre-cocked and the trigger travel is reduced to 8 mm (0.3 in) at
Maybe that was reason why we
the same 20 N (4.5 lbf) trigger pull.
do not like P99 in particular, despite
For manually deactivating the Anti
this is quite popular firearm in Po-
Stress mode and setting the pistol
land. We approached P99 with bit of
to Double-Action mode the P99AS
shyness, having in mind that poor-
plate and AS trigger which is Dou-
features a decock key or knob on
ly working AS trigger and forcibly
ble-Action/Single-Action
trigger
the slide. The Anti Stress mode can
search for excuses like “we heard it
with a decocker. In Double-Action
also be manually activated by mov-
is not accurate” or “it does not look
mode the internal striker is at rest
ing the slide approximately 10 mm
so cool” and crown one “yo, I heard
with no pre-load and the trigger trav-
(0.4 in) back. AS trigger was build to
that firing pin is falling off that one”.
el is 14 mm (0.55 in) long at approx-
meet requirements of law enforce-
imately 38 N (8.5 lbf) trigger pull.
ment agencies, that come up with
When the slide is racked completely
an idea that they need firearm where
We finally brake and start to
to the rear upon (re)loading, the in-
first shot will require conscious and
shoot. And we were surprised. P99AS
ternal striker is manually pre-cocked
purposeful trigger pull to eliminate
is quality-made gun – no glitches,
FIREARMS
to Single-Action mode and the trig-
sharp edges or similar screw ups.
thing out with grip bands or stickers.
Reloading is also easy, guide
Additionally, very fine looking and
Grip can be left as it is – you can
spring does not resist much. First
durable Tennifer treatment on metal
shoot like that. Overall profile of the
shot was with self-cocker after
parts. After six months of use there
grip is proper, but far from ideal be-
decoking reloaded weapon, with
are practically no signs of wear.
cause of weak profiled places like
button placed on the top of the slide
P99AS feels good in hand – for
beavertail and place there trigger
(placed asymmetrical on the left
sure not perfectly, but no reasons
guard meets the grip. It is flat like a
side). Firing from self-cocker makes
to complain. There are three inter-
table and you cannot deeply grab the
us wander, and we start to explain
changeable back straps so it can
handgun and there is no way you can
to ourselves why memories firing
be personalized to shooter’s needs.
sit it down because of the placement
P99 from few years back were so
Maybe it is not as comfortable as
of magazine release lever. It is not
bad. Trigger has a long way but even
changeable sides of grip, but it does
bad after all, but it could be better.
resistance during whole path, resis-
its job. Grip itself profiled nicely,
tance from category „lighter ones”.
covered in thin pattern. Here they
Inserting magazine is not a prob-
It can be surely said that most of
can do better because those dots
lem. It goes in smoothly and is held
the SA/DA triggers have higher re-
are not providing enough resistance
firmly. We could say that there is an
sistance when firing from self-cock-
for hands and grip is not firm enough
option to better profile down part of
ing mechanism. We were ready for
as in SFP9 or latest Glocks. Lovers
the grip for magazine well, what for
complete disaster after all… When
of stippling have great opportunity
sure make reload without looking
firing SA, the trigger travel is short
to show off, and if someone does
easier.
(approx. 5 mm), smooth, and with
not want to work with soldiering ma-
small resistance with very distin-
chine on the grip has to figure some-
guish breaking point of taking all the
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ally, after trigger is fully squeezed, it
after firing first shot and reloading
touches the frame, while in Glock it
work almost identical and the only
has little bit of space and in SFP9 it
difference is extension of the path –
doesn’t touches at all.
except that, there are no noticeable changes in its work. Weapon is ac-
De-cocker that releases firing
curate, even when we fire doublets
pin, despite it is asymmetrical; it’s
during which pistol can be easily
comfortable – quite big and easily
controlled despite mentioned lacks
accessible. Work without resistance,
in grip.
it does what it supposed to do, it is
Shape of the trigger is some-
OK.
thing that you have to get used to – it is heavily curved what causes that
Sights consist of fixed rear and
trigger finger lays relatively high and
front sight, they are big and clear.
you have feeling of tight space in-
For contrast, they were marked
side the trigger guard. When trigger
with white dots. Rear sight is quite
begins to be pulled back, that fell-
wide, so sights are bright with big
ing disappears but you can still feel
gaps between front sight and sides
that is has different shape of what is
of rear sight. We prefer something
known from SFP9 or Glock. Addition-
tighter but “horses for courses” for sure there will be fans of P99 sights, especially that they will be good for close ranges. Anyway, sights are easy to align, and they are clear on the target, if you will remember about wide rear sight, hitting the target will not be a problem. Rear sight is mounted in classic fashion, by dovetail where front sight is screwed to the slide from the bottom. Theoretically, we can make an attempt to change standard sights, but there is no need because they are really good. If we have pick on something, we can say that rear sight is canted in the front so it will make more difficult or make impossible to reload weapon by garment or gear in critical situation.
Magazine release paddle works similar to SFP9, but there is noticeable difference in their work. Maybe because they are profiled little different, in P99 they are long and thin
FIREARMS
slack and clear reset. AS trigger, so
1
1
1
2
2
2
where in SFP9 they are short and wider
Disassembly is a classic. Both sided
and then release firing pin with button
and axis of rotation is placed bit different.
lever on the frame in front of the trigger
and carry it like that and in the situation
that should be pulled off with little (2-3
that we need to use it we can take the
Manipulators of P99 are ambidex-
mm) backed slide and moving slide for-
first shot using self-cocking that – as
trous (except de-cocker, but it is easily
ward. We take out the recoil assembly
we mentioned already – is much friendly
accessible from both sides) so handling
and barrel and it’s done. Identical like in
that it is in other handguns.
of the weapon by left and right handed
most modern handguns. Cleaning P99
shooters will not cause any problems.
looks the same – there are no inventions
Holsters. Well, in times of Kydex plas-
that would make it harder. Maybe interior
tic and other inventions it will be easy to
Weapon comes with cocked firing pin
mechanism is build little more compli-
make or choose something for yourself.
indicator and chambered round indica-
cated than the Glock but those are not
When it comes to universal holster we
tor. First is a hole in slide back plate, and
important differences when it comes to
checked it with Safariland 578 GLS Pro-
through that tiny hole we can see red end
cleaning.
Fit and it works.
of the firing pin, if it’s in cocked position. If firing pin is de-cocked to forward po-
P99AS is very compact and has no
sition, its end is not visible through the
sharp edges, so it can be used as CCW
hole. Chambered round indicator has the
gun. Drawing from under the garment
form of pin. When round is not present
practically there is nothing to catch on-
in the chamber, pin is even with the slide
everything is either rounder or well com-
side. After loading round into the cham-
posed into the frame. What’s more, com-
ber pin hides inside its cavity unveiling
paring to other “wonder nines” Walther
red dot on the edge of the hole. You really
P99 gives an option to carry it with round
have to take a look at it, to see it. Sup-
chambered, but with decocked firing pin.
posedly, you can feel the difference in the
It may be very important for people who
placement of the pin with your finger, but
are afraid to carry firearm w/o external
it will probably not work in gloves.
safety in Condition One. We can load P99
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Except that, shooting from P99 is nice and accurate, de-
P99AS, caused by previous experiences and opinions about
spite the grip that is not that bad, but not that ergonomic ei-
this weapon as potentially dangerous. Now that distance dis-
ther. If someone shoots SFP9, the “transition� to P99 will be
appeared. We are not blind fans of that weapon in one night,
basically natural and if someone used handgun with magazine
but we can say that this is pretty cool handgun. We fired cou-
release button rather that lever, he will have to learn something
ple of hundreds rounds (probably over a 1,000) and it is not in
new.
any way reliable test of durability, more like impressions after longer, not over intense use. Weapon works, shoots accurate,
We are declared fans of Glocks and SFP9 (and few other
we have no malfunctions and any other technical problems.
models) so by default we recognize those as better ones for
Our morale is raised by steel back plate, so if there would be
us, what does not interfere with taking lot of real fun shooting
accident similar to most famous Polish case there is chance
from P99.
that plate will stay in place and firing pin will remain inside the slide.
FIREARMS
To sum up. At the beginning we had a huge distance to
Story by: Bartosz Szołucha Photo: Wojciech Wiciejowski, FRAG OUT!
Troy Industries, well-known in shooters community from firearms and accessories like rails, grips or sights, recently came with a My Service Rifle to manufacture modern replicas of historical variants of M16 rifle. First product was presented at the beginning of 2016. The Troy GAU-5A/A was exact replica of carbine used by American commandos during failed Son Tay POW camp rescue operation in North Vietnam in 1970 (operation Ivory Coast). It turned out that there is a necessity for firearms like this and six months later Troy released a replica XM177E2, the iconic weapon of MACV-SOG top secret missions. And that is the one that we have chance to get closer with!
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Until now, firearms collectors had very big problem – original XM177E2 was produced in limited quantity, pieces that least present times are even fewer (mostly in museums in USA). There is also a group of hardcore collectors building their own guns with using as much of original parts as they can find.
there were problems with reliability, but in 1964 AR-15 was officially adopted as M16. Two years later US Army placed an order for 840,000 improved XM16E1 rifles that on 28th February 1967 got official designation of “US Rifle, 5.56, M16A1”. Purchase of M16A1’s was announced as “temporary and one time only”.
Troy XM177E2 is part of Troy’s My Service Rifle modern replicas that try to follow the original design as close as possible.. Unfortunately, American laws required to make few changes, what will be described in detail later.
Little bit of history
Where XM177E2 came from? As combat operations in Vietnam have started, involvement of American special forces units was increasing and for them one meter long rifle was just too long for jungle warfare, so they requested something that can provide same firepower, will have identical weapon manipulation, but be more compact.
History of XM177E2 dates back to middle 1950s when Eugene Stoner invented .308 AR-10 with innovative construction system of diverting combustion gases by port in the barrel that lacks of gas piston element. Except characteristic carrying handle, the AR-10 was built from aluminum alloys that resulted in low overall weight. Another creation was .223 AR-15 adapted to .223 Remington ammunition developed in 1957, rifle that after many adventures was adopted by… USAF. At the beginning
Let’s move back in time a little, because many readers hearing „carbine version of M16” will have in mind the „CAR-15”, that often is (wrongfully) used to describe every version of M16 with short barrel. Colt Automatic Rifle name was purposefully made by Colt to move away all associations with Armalite Company and describe complex CAR-15 Military Weapon System that consisted of M16 rifle variants in many configurations that had addi-
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Model 610 was officially adopted by USAF as Submachine Gun, GAU-5/A. On 28th June 1966, US Army acquired 2185 units of Model 609 and adopted it as Submachine Gun, 5.56 mm, XM177E1. What is worth to notice, “Experimental” gun never renamed to M177 or M177A1. As a result of tests conducted in 1967, Colt implemented package of modifications – barrel was extended from 10” (254 mm) to 11.5” (292 mm), what reduced sound and visual signature of shot and allowed to attach 40 mm under-slung grenade launcher (at the beginning XM148 and later M203). Chambers where chromed what increased reliability. Improved versions were renamed to Model 629 (with forward assist) and 649 (w/o forward assist). In April 1967,
510 Model 629 carbines were purchased for Military Assistance Command, Vietnam Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG) and adopted as XM177E2. MACV-SOG knows also as SOG was elite unit of American special forces conducting top secret and extremely risky recon operations, search and rescue and kill or capture of high ranking enemy soldiers in North and South Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. The MACV-SOG combat teams consisted of carefully selected soldiers from LRRP, Green Berets and SEALs. Legends that surrounded SOG operations caused that XM177E2 become a cult weapon. What’s interesting, in practical use turned out that
IN ACTION
tional numeric markings. Standard US Army M16A1 had internal Colt’s designation of Model 603 CAR-15 Rifle, whereas USAF M16 was Model 604 CAR-15 Rifle (without forward assist). Model 606 CAR-15 Heavy Assault Rifle was shortly manufactured version with heavy barrel that was designed to act as LMG (M1 version was fed with magazines and M2 was belt-fed).
cessor of Commando was Colt Model 653 versions of M16A1 with 14.5� barrel with extended reliability.
Troy XM177E2
XM177E2 had problems with accuracy and barrel durability, due the use of tracer rounds. Colt’s proposed exploratory program, but finally US DoD did not give permission to grant amount of money expected by Colt. Limiting US Armed Forces involvement in Vietnam War, was the main reason why manufacturing of CAR-15 Commando rifles was 1970 abandoned. The direct suc-
As every AR-15, Troy XM177E2 fires from closed bolt. It actions by diverting combustion gases by tiny hole in the barrel with system named Direct Gas Impingement (DI, known mostly as Stoner system). On the upper part of bolt carrier is gas key that front part is in contact with thin steel tube placed directly over the barrel that guide, supply and direct combustion gases when bolt carrier group is in forward position. When BCG is placed in rear position front of Gas key is behind the gas pipe. Gas key directs combustion gases to gas chamber that is placed between back part of the bolt and bolt carrier. There were placed three gas rings on the bolt that are designed to block gases to come out from gas chamber. Bolt with seven wings is locked by rotation. Troy XM177E2 was made in 100% with
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IN ACTION
original, Nam-era MIL-SPEC, so it’s practically the same rifles as every M16A1 from that time. Lower and upper receiver are made from 7076 aircraft grade aluminum and held together with two metal pins for quick disassembly for cleaning. As in every AR, it’s super easy and does not require any tools. The Troy XM177E2, just as early versions of M16A1, is anodized in gray color, not black. Accordingly, to military specification from 1960s. On the right side of upper receiver there is placed forward assist with „Tear Drop” shaped button and extraction port with dust cover. The T-shaped charging handle is placed at the back of upper receiver and right above it, there is fixed carrying handle with rear sight. On the magazine well there are proper markings PROPERTY OF U.S. GOVT XM177E2 CAL. 5.56 MM, same as original ones. Trigger is semi-fire only, but at the safety switch there are three positions: SAFE, SEMI and AUTO. Just to keep it as close to real deal as possible. Magazine release but-
ton is place on the right side of the receiver. It is protected by Full Fence style ribs, so there is minimized risk of accidental activation. Plastic pistol grip is genuine new old stock M16A1 military grip and not modern production. Collapsible stock was placed on the two position buffer tube. The stock of XM177E2 has aluminum body coated with shiny black vinyl-acetate and it is way smaller than modern collapsible stocks in M4 variants. It has two positions only, so extended or collapsed. 12.5 inch barrel has fixed long moderator muzzle device with six slots, that gives the barrel shape the same as original one. Troy XM177E2 also features “Grenade Ring” that allows mounting under barrel grenade launcher
XM148 or M203, if by accident you have one in the drawer. Here we have to notice that original XM177E2 barrel produced by Colt was 11.5 inches, but it has to be changed according to US laws. But overall length (with moderator) is almost identical. Characteristic triangle front sight post lacks bayonet lug and swivel. Short plastic tubular front grip has only single-wall aluminum heat-resistant panels protecting from heat while intensive fire. Troy XM177E2 comes with ultimate set of accessories and gadgets: short 20 rounds aluminum magazine, aluminum 30 round magazine, green canvas sling (original, from the era and with metal rings replaced with 550 cord, exactly same as it was done Mekong Delta 50 years ago), weapon cleaning kit (modern one) and reprint of 1967 manual and comic book, that was included to explain regular Joe from Idaho complexities of operating “black rifle”. In addition, there are three death cards. Lollapalooza – now just put on set of “tiger stripes” or black-sprayed TCUs and you can feel like member of SOG patrol.
Troy Industries XM177E2 carbine was brought to Poland by Semper Fidelis. We die of jealousy, but congratulations anyway!
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IN ACTION
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technicaldata Caliber: Total weight: Overall length: Barrel length: Barrel twist:
Troy XM177E2
Colt XM177E2 (Model 629) 5.56 mm x 45 NATO (.223 Rem.) 2767 g 2400 g 847/762 mm 840/755 mm 317.5 mm 292 mm 1:7 (178 mm)
Hellpup Few
months
laters
Story by: Piotr IKEM Walerysiak Photo: IKEM/Pare Studio, Michał Sitarski
We have lot of AK rifles in the armory, both modern and old military stocks modified for civilian market. They are all different. Some a “raw” and some were upgraded with parts from different companies. Some of them have just iron sights and some have electro-optics. Because of the price and availability, pretty common on our classes are Pioneer Arms Corp. Sporter and Hellpup AK rifles.
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Here we will not go into the tech-
about Polish Pioneer Arms Corp. be-
nical details of the guns as we have
cause of one American YouTube guy,
published those earlier in FRAG OUT!
who rated they rifles very critical. We
Magazine. We will focus on our im-
have our own experiences with this
pressions after about 2000 rounds.
weapon, and we will not argue with
p u p l Hel
colleagues from the other side of Big
Let’s get back to the start, be-
Pond. And we are here not make the
cause our adventure with Hellpup
manufacturer happy. We have used
had some tough beginnings. Rifle
PAC AK’s quite intensively through-
has had a problem with the trigger,
out couple of months (Hellpup more,
that was not resetting properly de-
because somehow it suits us more),
spite that we do not modified it in
so we can rate it by ourselves. We
any mysterious way. It just had ten-
will not relate to someone’s judg-
dency to jam in complete random
ment riposte, claims and controver-
way: sometimes worked as it sup-
sies.
posed to work, sometimes jammed after few shots and sometimes jam at every shot. Little bit heartbroken, bit pissed, we’ve reported that to the manufacturer. We have to admit, that PAC surprised us positively – they scheduled the date, and they arrived themselves to take firearm to service, so door-to-door.
He
As it turned out later, our Helll-
He
p u p l l pu ll
p
pup comes from first production batch and it was afflicted by “childhood diseases”. It happens, but ultimately we were given this gun to test it thoroughly and to detect its faults and somehow contribute to its development. Backing up to the problem with the trigger, it turned out that blanking tool from the press that is responsible for making hole for trigger itself, is inaccurate and cuts out too small hole. Weapon was repaired and delivered back. It took 10 days and I have to admit that I have not found that fast customer service in any other workshop. From that moment, trigger worked perfectly fine, until we found out that modified Hellpup is much more fun that “raw”
FIREARMS
In last weeks it was quite loud
one. So we changed this and that.
Next remark is spur of the bolt
Trigger was not the only one trouble. carrier that cooperates with the We have noticed that during inten- hammer. Seemingly everything is sive shooting, lever responsible for in place and works properly but... locking gas tube get loose and twists this spur undergo – in our opinout. Supposedly, they fixed it in lat- ion – of too much wear out. er batches and problem does not It appears, by naked eye, occur, but in our rifle it was present “flattening” of its end. because it was “preemie”. According There is no drama for now to “every solution needs a hammer”, but, but it’s very clear that metal we took the hammer and struck few is “beaten up” We saw hardly beattimes into the faulty lever. It helped en bolt carriers, so we wonder how
Last but not least – rust!
because from that time, lever holds far the process of beating will go in
Well, right, we are not fans of ex-
our rifle. Manufacturer claims that
aggerated care for firearms and it
it only “flattens” to certain point,
happens, especially during inten-
Gas system was unfortunate in and above all it only has aesthet-
sive “training-educational” weeks
general, because when lever stop ics aspects without any influence
we neglect cleaning the weap-
to loosen up, in exchange plastic on firearm. We will see. Anyway,
ons, sometimes even for… couple
upper handguard started to do it. in 2018 (supposedly in first quar-
of weeks. So, the Hellpup’s rusty
It got loose and started to twist on ter) next series supposed to come
coating is just because of our irre-
the gas tube what may not affect out where bolt carrier will be made
sponsibility. It rarely happens, as of
the functionality of the weapon it- out of new much more robust alloy
couple of weeks ago, that rifle after
self, but can piss someone off. That (“super steel”). So, we will wait and
“wet” shooting lay dozen of hours in
was caused by fault in production of see how new super-bolt carrier will
the range bag because much time
that particular firearm, but as far as work, but for now we shoot our Hell-
passed from the end of the training
we know, it does not appear in other pup with old “flattening” bolt carrier
to returning home. Unfortunately,
pieces. Instead of using a hammer and it still works. Additionally, we
after taking it out from the bag rifle
to fix it, along with upgrading the have to remember that this in one
was already covered in many places
weapon we’ve change all furniture to of the cheapest (if not the cheapest)
by rusty spots. Lucky for us, “mag-
Magpul. Believe or not but it helped!
brand-new “kalash” on the market.
ical” ProTechGuns wipes helped in
One thing or the other….
removal. So if we will not take care
firmly and not getting loosed up.
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ry whistle-shaped muzzle device
After some time of using Hellpup,
like on the pictures beside where we
or something more sophisticated.
we figured that we have to dress up
can see that there are already rusty
Short barrel does that. Embrace it.
our kind naked friend. Our choices
spots on the piston. Well, moment
The sound effect is also louder that
were:
for clearing the weapon is coming
standard AK, shockwave is also
undoubtedly, after all it was only
more sensible. Mechanics of the
Magpul MOE® AKM Hand Guard.
wipe after last covering in mud after
weapon due to weight of bolt carri-
– Its left is side is profiled to leave
shooting in the rain.
er group, weapon itself and amount
original sling mount accessible.
In our opinion rifle is accurate
of gases that hits the piston, what
Cool! There is no need to cut off the
enough, off course we do not talk
cause that piston works more rap-
mount and modification is in 100%
here about precision shooting!
idly, makes Hellpup to feel bit more
reversible. Unfortunately, not ev-
vicious than the Spoter, but still in
eryone thinks about it and in many
the boundaries of common sense.
cases hanguard upgrades requires
This is shorty AK, that was originally designed for vehicle crews, special forces and for short range
direct and permanent removal of
engagements. We also do not fire
Ring front sight covers are nice,
sling mount. The hanguard comes
from Hellpup at “sniper” distances,
because it eliminates common mis-
with polymer replacement for Top
and we also use good ammu-
take when firing in low light condi-
Cover. Magpul sits tighter and stron-
nition and good means
tions which is aligning rear sight
ger than original so problem with
not with the front sight but with one
rotation was eliminated. Eventually,
of the covering lips of front sight
we are thinking about mounting Ul-
base.
timak top cover, but there is no short
cheap.
Maybe
little
not
What we also like in Hell-
version available ye.
pup is the enlarged magazine release pad-
Magpul MOE® AK Grip – has much
dle. It helps
better profile and with nicer texture
easily
than original one. Standard grip is just MIL-SPEC so there is something to grab on, but if it is comfortable – nobody gives a crap. After change, it’s comfortable.
consistently, but we hit steel target without any problem. If we try to shoot paper
changing
targets, turns out that rifle
magazines
holds pretty nice group (us-
there is no need to mount
ing “fine” ammunition”) regardless barrel was hot or cold.
and
add-ons or to change the latch. Rifle works flawlessly with all magazines available on the market (we tested military steel ones, polymer AK From Radom and Magpul ones).
If we are already talking about short barrel, it has to be mentioned that there is a huge flame coming out of the barrel, regardless we use facto-
There weren’t any problems, and we have no malfunctions.
FIREARMS
of the firearms, weapon will look
Magpul ZHUKOV-S® side-folded stock. Here we had to use a hammer again! Original polymer stock sits very tightly so you need a lot of force to take it out. Mounting of the Magpul stock went without any problems,
that blocks the pins is not an easy
Hellpup shoots every kind of ammo.
everything is fit very nicely. About
thing and can raise your blood pres-
Generally, it EATS every 7.62 mm
how much it changed comfort of
sure. Despite all that – it is worth
x 39 rounds regardless of the man-
shooting from Hellpup or its conve-
to change the trigger because then
ufacturer. If there are misfires they
nience (especially in transporting)
Hellpup becomes different rifle!
come from faulty ammunition and never from rifle itself. Turns out
we don’t need to write much – everyone can guess. Lastly, Zhukov is
Muzzle device or compensator.
that it also fires different calibers. In
from 21st century and original stock
– It was done just to change some-
the heat of one of the courses, one
as old as AK with plastic stock. Here
thing. Eventually we plan to mount
student mistook the ammunition
it is, closer to line of bore, plus its
diffuser that directs gases straight
and loaded single .223 round to the
length can be adjusted.
forward. It is necessity having short
magazine (somewhere in between
barrel like that, because it is OK when
the 7.62). Was it a problem? Not
ALG Defence AKT Trigger – Basi-
we shoot alone, but when on the
for Hellpup. It fired like firecracker,
cally, the very same Bill Geissele’s
shooting positions next to us other
the case expanded in the chamber
that makes one of best in triggers
shooters are firing, they will stop to
and break alongside, so we had to
for AR, did it for AK. Installation re-
like us. Shockwave and high noise
use ramrod and a hammer to clear
quires a little bit of practice, above
are very strong and its influence
it. After that Hellpup was fed only
all it has to be adjusted to your rifle.
on other people is not comfortable.
with proper ammunition and worked
To do so, special roll-pin is required.
Speaking frankly, even shooter that
flawlessly.
Except that, mounting the spring
uses Hellpup feels that he is firing.
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FIREARMS So what we have is cheap, shorty
Round count of the weapon: ~ 2000 rounds of different ammunition (STV, Tula, mil-spec) and no problems.
kalash Hellpup from Radom, Poland. It’s not perfect, first batches were kind of faulty, but manufacturer ensures that rifle with every batch is getting better and better. Hellpup is cheap, for sure it’s not any kind of race gun or indestructible AK with famous 11 in the circle. It’s supposed to be used for fun, intensive training and wherever where lover and collector of Kalshnikov inventions wants to shoot it, but do not want to use historical pieces. Because Hellpup after it will do its job and fall apart (if only after reasonable round count) can always be replaced with new one.
! K C A B S I D N E G E L E H T
LES F I R NAK O I T C ODU R P SH POLI
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The last, spectacular bayonet charge took place in 2004 in Iraq when 20 British soldiers were attacked nearby alAmara (around Basra) by 100 insurgents. British vehicles were immobilized and attackers were firing everything in them, mortars included. CO decided for a clearly suicidal move – he ordered “fix bayonets!” and charged. Distance to entrenched enemies was about 200 meters, but Brits managed to make. In bayonet fight they killed 20 enemies. The rest of them fled. Legend says that shortly after that situation, during the interview, one of the British commanders was accused of unnecessary brutality which he just answered “welcome in the bayonet fights world”.
Second incident was in Afghanistan. Then corporal, Sean Jones, was an executive commander of a patrol which got under well-coordinated Taliban fire in Karakan in Helmand Province. British soldiers were in the open and the fire came from two directions (north and east), including village. Soldiers took cover in irrigation ditch, but it was clear enough that enemy would try to flush them out of there. Jones ordered 3 men to fix bayonets and remaining two to give covering fire. They charged towards buildings 80 meters further - after reaching them it was revealed that disoriented enemy retreated which gave soldiers chance to regroup. What is interesting, both of that situations involved soldiers from the same unit, 1st Battalion The Princess of Wales’s Regiment. Those lads have L85A2 rifles which happen to be not the best rifle for bayonet fight. If bull-pup ever would…
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As shown, bayonet even today might be still used for fighting. It can be used as a field knife if properly designed.
WHAT WE HAD IN THE PAST Since the end of WW2, Polish Army have issued few bayonets introduced alongside with new rifles. Mostly, despite differences in the design they had one common feature – they were just bayonets. It means that beside fixing them on the end of the rifle’s barrel in order to stab enemy, they were useless in anything else. Let’s make it in historical order – first one was side-folder bayonet of Mosin M44 rifle. It was cruciform-spike bayonet with 38 cm long blade. In transportation order, it was folded to the right side of rifle. It was designed only to stab and moreover, permanently fixed to the rifle. Senseless, because despite exercises no one ever used it during peace time. Next one was folding bayonet of SKS rifle, which never was used only in honor guard units in all-chromed version. It was
knife-type bayonet with single-edged blade so it could be used for stabbing and slashing. Frankly, only that because it was fixed to the rifle and folded under the barrel. So, the soldier was carrying useless piece of steel, again. After that, there was AK/AKS 6H2 knife-bayonet (in Poland designated as wz.58). Basically it was a SKS bayonet, but detachable with something which tried to imitate handle with possibility of fixing it on rifle. It was held with top open clamp at the end of the handle and a ring in the dace and latch under it. “Knifebayonet” it was only from the name because despite the overall shape it didn’t cut. Maybe during the fight you could use it to harm enemy while having it fixed on the rifle, but as a knife it didn’t work. It could be sheathed in the steel scabbard with a leather frog, so it was good that soldier could have it fixed only when necessary. Then was 6H3 bayonet for AKM/AKMS and its upgrade from mid sixties, the 6H4. Change was made to a handle with a latch which in older version was plastic and in new one it was replaced with solid metal. Bayonet has a Bowie type blade, single-edged with asymmetrical, one-sided grind and a hole in front part. Handle was made from electric insulated plastic and, as it looks like it could be full tang,
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there is no connection between metal handle end (in 6H4) and the blade with a tang. That bayonet was fixed on rifle with a latch on the end of the handle and a ring in the dace. Metal scabbard, with rubber grip, leather frog and steel attachment. Front part of the sheath has a pivot and a cutting edge which creates bolt cutters when combined with bayonet. According the manual, it was possible to cut electrical wires and of course, barbed wire was also possible to be cut. Due to low quality steel used, barbed wire cutting caused noticeable dents on the cutting edge, blade was hard to sharpen, it held sharpness very poorly and could get damaged very easily. What is more, there were situations where blade just broke right next to the dace. Mostly it was caused while conscript soldiers having fun by throwing bayonets into the trees, but that situations (broken blades) were often and didn’t vouch for bayonet’s quality. 6H4 were also issued with Beryl’s rifles, but in black.
HERE COMES THE NEW When the idea of MSBS assault rifles was born, bayonet design works were also launched. In the beginning there were two models were being. First one, which was nearly the same as the final one, now issued with MSBS/GROT and the second one which had tanto-shaped blade. It was more angular, futuristic shape with double-sided grind. Of course, the blade had a hole to convert into bolt cutters with scabbard. Tanto was fixed to the rifle the same way as US M7, M9 or OKC3S bayonets, with a ring in the very massive dace and a latch in the end of the handle with double-sided, symmetrical scissor-style lock fixed to the lug under the barrel. Handle was massive, made
from rubber with grip improving serrations. On the base of the handle it was also a glass breaker that could be also used during in hand-to-hand combat. This bayonet looked very futuristic and was massive and heavy. Frankly, usage capabilities were mediocre of tanto shape, so the design was ditched and second one was further developed.
MSBS/GROT BAYONET Second version of bayonet, with few changes, finally made it to production and is now issued with GROT rifles. First design has a serration on top, but this idea was abandoned. Despite that, it is almost the same as the prototypes 8 years ago. Knife has a drop point blade from NCV1 steel. It characterizes with easy handling during production and can be easily hardened. It is quite durable and braking resistant thus why it is often chosen for utility knives, but hardened up to 60HRC might be a good material for hunting knives which must hold sharpness better (e.g. hunting knives). NCV1 steel is 60-66HRC. Combo type blade has 155 mm length and 3,9 mm width. Serrations are made on 40 mm length. Single sided grind, false blade is asymmetrical, one sided and creates a cutting edge for bolt cutters. A hole is in the front part of the blade, where the false blade starts. Dace is very small and creates simultaneously a hook to fix bayonet on the rifle by placing it on the edge flash hider. On the top of the blade is a thumb ramp. Blade is cut from the metal sheet with high pressure water beam.
Handle is from Itamid 253 polyamide reinforce with glass fibers, and is similar to that from Extrema Ratio ones. It has a little texture with pits in front that cooperates with scabbard closure. At the end of the handle is a metal part used for fixing a bayonet on rifle with loop for dummy cord. Polymer used for handle is the same used for scabbard and GROT lower receivers. At first glance the bayonet looks as full tang as it has no physical connection between blade with a tang inside a handle and a metal part at the end of the handle. It is that because of requirement of cutting electrical wires. What is interesting, every single knife is tested on electrical isolation capabilities. Two-part scabbard is made of Itamid 253. It has MOLLE/PALS attachment and nylon webbing frog to secure the bayonet. Outer part of scabbard is meant to be mounted to the gear and internal part is meant to storage the bayonet and to create bolt cutters with it. For that purpose it has been equipped with steel, screwed in and replaceable part on the end with hook alike blade and a pivot to interlock with a bayonet and also screwed a pin limiting the move of so-called bolt cutters. In the lower part is a hole allowing water to flow out of the inside. Both parts of scabbard are connected by force and locked with a latch on top. Bayonet is fixed to the rifle with a latch at the end of the handle that locks on the lug under the barrel and small hook on the dace that locks on the flash hider edge, but it doesn’t block the barrel and it allows shooting.
EARLY EVALUATION Bayonet for MSBS/GROT rifle when compared to 6H4 is quality leap. Finally, soldier is issued a knife-bayonet and not bayonetknife (order of words is a key here), which can be used for more things than just stabbing an enemy. Generally, it is a quite good field knife which can be sharpened and which holds that sharpness quite well. Handle is comfortable, it fits well in hand, but texture makes grip not so stable. It’s quite slick, texture is very tiny and even in dry hand the bayonet can be turned in closed hand just by catching the blade with other hand and turning it. That can’t be blocked with a grip on handle. In accordance to that it might be considered to:
quite difficult and costly from technological point of view. • Changing texture to more aggressive. I have checked on M9 bayonet and similar as in OKC3S, it can be blocked with tight grip on handle. This is easier from technological point of view, but it would require changing the forms. To be honest, there could be someone to make stippling but it is issued stuff, so better don’t... Grip enhancement could be useful mostly because the knife has a tiny dace with a hook pointed in the user’s fingers. While more powerful thrusting hand might happen to slide forward and hit that hook which could be quite painful. Although the shape of the handle and the thumb ramp should prevent that but it might be too little in extreme situations. Blade is nice but placing serrations on it is a total misunderstanding in my opinion. They are also badly profiled. Yes, OKC3S has serrations, but with different profile and moreover designed that you can start cutting with them and continue with plain cutting edge. You can’t do that with this bayonet because serrations are about 3mm lower than a cutting edge of the blade so there is only 40 mm for cutting. What is more, there is a ledge at the beginning (God knows why) which is going to be broken during work. Combo blade in the field knife gives nothing, it even limits its capabilities and makes sharpening not so easy. Much more useful would be just plain cutting edge, but… there is a hope that after some field evaluations, the serrations will be gone. Bolt cutters. Haven’t tested them because bayonet isn’t mine and I don’t want to damage it. If there will be a possibility of cutting wires, I will do so and write about it. Scabbard. Nice, innovative solution of turning into bolt cutters. It holds bayonet securely, it’s lightweight (189 grams compared to 227 grams of 6H4 scabbard, bayonets weights 201 grams compared to 318 grams). And it’s easy to use. Knife goes in smoothly, sits well and drawing it is simple and intuitive. Taking out internal part of the scabbard requires some strength, but it is what it is meant to be. It won’t fall out by itself. It can be done without a bayonet inside, but with it is easier to use it as a lever.
• Change the handle’s to more rubbery one. USMC OKC3S can’t be turned as described above thanks to the resistance made by plastic used for its handle. Of course such change is
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To sum up. Every part is made very well although blackening of the blade will come off as from only sheathing it you can notice marks on the blade. With the bayonet fixed on the rifle, you can shoot MSBS/GROT despite what chairborne experts say. Video for proof is attached. Nothing blocks anything, nothing falls off and you hit where you aim. Fixing to the rifle is firm and stable. Our ripped friend, Chris “Captain America” (6’ 3” and 220 lbs of muscles) was using it as it is supposed to be used: stabbing pile of tires with full strength. He didn’t manage to damage the knife, he only knocked over those tires and I bet that if Chris stab enemy with same energy he will just put bayonet up to the rifle’s flash hider. Well, it’s good but not perfect. In my opinion bayonet needs some changes, but in comparison to 6H4 it is like Ferrari next to some old Ford.
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Text &ph oto s: M IC AĹ H
KI RS TA SI
e l e s e r i F
FB Radom GROT C16FB-M1 rifles (MSBS 5,56-K) are already issued in Wojsko Polskie. For now in 1,000 pieces to WOT (Territorial Defense Forces), but eventually there will be over 50,000 until 2021. Part of it will make it into Land Forces and next orders will follow. There is first version of the rifle, but there are whispers and rumors about releasing modified versions (up to M3 standard) and upgrading the rifles that were already delivered.
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r o t c e MSBS/GROT: Fire selector
After initial tests there were few remarks about GROT – we will not focus here on debate whether real are more or less trustful reports and focus on one element that wake up lot of controversies. Now we are talking about safety switch/fire selector lever that, according to to fashion, is ambidextrous. Unlike most of the moderns rifles that follow AR-15/-18 layout in bigger or smaller part, its has 45 degree rotation and not the 90 degree rotation when it comes to the full-auto mode. In effect shooters that are used to “default” fire selector known from M4 and its derivatives, may instinctively switch GROT from “safe” to “full auto”. Shooters that used AK/AKM/Beryl platrom do not have this problem because transition to GROT rifles will be accompanied by totally changing habits during the training. Anyway, „problem” of the fire selector is picked up by some people that have contact with the GROT. Even leading manufacturers of firearms such as FN or HK as well as other armies bigger that Polish (for example Bundeswerh)
use it and can live with it. Actually, sound logical that “stressed” soldier, even well trained, can against his will set the selector to full auto, but soldiers train to avoid such a situation. Even the G36 has fire selector similar to Grot… I think there are four ways to solve this problem: 1. Leave it as it is, having in mind that GROT will first get to WOT and to land forces afterwards. In the latter, the AK-based platform is used so change of primary weapon will cause necessity of training, where everything is different from what soldiers know about weapon system. The only common thing between GROT and Beryl is caliber. In WOT we will find people who came from big army or came straight from civilian world (we omit cadre that comes from POLSOF and used different systems from years), so they have to go through whole training process anyway. Then they can learn how to properly work with that new rifle. Argument that they train on the civilian shooting ranges by themselves or as a part of some sort
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HK433 HK417
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In theory is can protect from accidental “under stress” full auto mode – question is, how big that stress could be that this kind of “protection” turn out not working. Theoretically, because as far as I know, nobody decided 2. Change to the AR-style. Yes, these are one of the to introduce weapon system with that solution. Maybe it most popular firearms in the world. The HK416 rifle would be worthy to release test series? All in all, under is a primary weapon in POLSOF and is very popular technical point of view it should not be complicated much among civilian shooters. AR platform is considered – matters of adequate choose holes that set the selector by many as determinant of ergonomics in rifles. levers. Only danger is that during use that type of solution Pros of such solution is that you really want to set selector could worn out and difference of resistance between the on full auto and it cannot be done accidentally even under positions can stop to be noticeable. enormous stress. Disadvantage is harder setting safety off than rifle with 45 degree selector and that to change 4. Leave the resistance, change setting from S-S-F to full auto weapon grip has to be changed. Some of the to S-F-S. De facto, it would be great of comeback to AK people that are strongly used to AR platform say that platform where strong pull of selector lever downward without looking they can say what fire mode weapon is put resulted in single fire mode. Many years ago during basic training I immerse myself into secrets of AK construction on and this is off course true. (yes AK, not AKM – my first service rifle was AKS rifle 3. Leave selector the same, but change the throw from 1959!), I asked question why safety lever work between positions. Smaller resistance between safety that way, my instructor responded that this is indeed and single fire and stronger before going full auto. organization with AR platform is irrelevant (what if they train on Mauser K98 – then what?) because they join the armed forces, so they will use what is issued.
L85A2 protection from working under high stress. Then it sounded twisted, but now is seems to me that twisted is only fact that they think about it almost 70 years ago. Or, maybe instructor just made it up and Mikhail Kalashnikov was shined by different more prosaic, technological goal or he just made it up by accident. Anyway – it worked in Kalashnikov, so why it cannot work in GROT? Yes, it would require re-thinking and re-engineering internals, but it is not „rocket science” and it is possible to „work out” during upgrades to M3 standard. Disadvantage will be the same as leaving everything the same, and that is necessity of getting used to by strongly declared AR users to that type of selector. Advantage – to set weapon on full auto you will truly want it. Speaking frankly, problem seems to be exaggerated. German Bundeswehr is using from years rifles with 45 degree switches. Ever popular MP5 SMG comes with similar selector (even with safe-single-burst-full auto setting, so four in total). New HK433 also can have that
selector as an option (customers will have a choice of G36 or HK416 style setup). How about Belgian FN SCAR used by US SOF? How about Tavor and others? Off course, it is worthy during implementation process to take into considerations feedback form users and adjust weapon to their taste, but on the other hand – military is not about democracy. What is more, Polish Armed Forces are introducing totally new firearm that cannot be compared to anything used already, so whole training process will has to be conducted anyway. Soldier can be trained on the GROT as it is now or go for solution number 4. Why that one? That is most optimal in my opinion – I’ve shoot GROT a little bit here and there and (I know, not under stress) and never had an issue with that fire selector, speaking frankly – I like very much that construction because of how easy it is to operate that selector switch.
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XM8 HK G11 I consider it as more comfortable that standard AR platforms, but I know that this is only my personal opinion. Among shooting friends I have even groups of declared enemies and supporters of that solution and one group under name “I don’t give a damn”. How it will end? Time will show, but I am worried that eventually MSBS/Grot will be “AR-ized” and will get selector same as M4 has. Pity, because currently used configuration is not bad, and when use solution number 4 it could be even better…
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Tavor
SCAR
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SCAR
EDC Amm
– something that is fo
AUTHOR: Piotr „IKEM „ Walerysiak, Konrad „DziQ „ Idzik PHOTO: IKEM/PARE.pl
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munition
orgotten sometimes‌ More and more often sport shooters carry a gun in Condition 1 what means weapon is loaded (with round chambered) and engaged safety (if weapon system allows doing so). Personally I think, because of many reasons that this is only reasonable way, but this is not article about that. Subject carrying a firearm on daily basis refers to many similar aspects, such as right clothing, holster and carrying system, place to store your weapon and finally ammunition. This time, let’s focus on latter thing.
D
uring the advanced courses I often see scene, where student after arriving to the shooting range unloads his weapon by removing magazine and taking round off the chamber. What comes next is particularly interesting. He put that round back to the magazine and carefully put it deep inside the range bag. When course ends he inserts that particular magazine, reloads and holster the gun.
Lead is taken by (because of availability on the local Polish market, we are righting from our perspective) following products:
««124 gr Federal – Hydra-shock with notched copper jacket and enter-post hollow -point design;
««105 gr Federal – GuardDog non-hollow-point expanding FMJ bullets filled What is the reason behind that? That’s right! Magic with an expanding blue polymer; Bullets! When it comes to everyday carry firearm, usually no one uses cheap and standard FMJ rounds ««135 gr Hornady – Critical duty and something more combat/lethal/powerful/fancy hollow point filled with polymer insert with speinstead. cial bounded core with jacket (to prevent bullet to fracture;
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It has to be noticed that mentioned ammunition beyond its tacticoolness characterizes pretty high price that can be as high as even $1.5 each (standard FMJ rounds is like 35 cents). To shoot well, you have to train, ««124 gr Geco – Hexagon that means shoot… a lot. Big group of shooters (includhollow point where hollow is very tight. ing myself ) shoots thousands of cheapest FMJ rounds Except above mentioned ones there is also JHP on the training and after the training, loads the magazine with those more expensive, defense ammunition. Jacketed Hollow Point ammunition. From economic point of view this approach is totally I will skip the discussion about sense of buying and understandable. carrying that ammunition by competitive shooters. Argument to “do” so is always the same – personal Few important facts to be safety. Off course, it is known that bullet of that type mentioned: gives all the energy to target that is hit and because of that its ability to penetrate and hurt incidental tar- 1. Once the magazine is loaded and carried throughout gets is limited. the year or thrown many times into the range bag or
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««Hornady – Zombie (no comments);
safe. This might cause malfunction “critical” situation. Spring can compress and rounds will not be fed properly - opinions are split, but I had situation like that with old Glock 17 magazine). Magazine across few years may be mechanically damaged in many other ways or just get dirty.
3. Type of ammunition, mostly bullet weight and gunpowder load, affects accuracy. So it may happen that bullseye from 115 gr FMJ ammunition may not be bullseye when we will use ammunition for zombie apocalypse;
4. From the point of view which this article about, most important aspect that 2. Not „getting familiar” with that ammunition on is the training. If we train every time with cheap FMJ I want to point out is abrasion of the rounds. rounds, in case of dangerous situation when we will fire “defensive” ammunition we will fell totally different (unnatural for us) way the firearm will function. During the production process of ammunition, bullet is pressed into case mechanically. When we insert round into the chamber it is pushed a bit more every time. In the long run, effect may be deeper inculcation
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of the bullet, what may cause unsealing of the round and failure to fire. Remember – rounds were not built to be inserted and extracted from chamber many times. Such an action is unnatural for them and it has to be kept in mind.
Lessons learned:
If you carry firearm every day (or even occasionally) in Condition 1 and you use dedicated special defensive ammunition then: «Regularly « check condition of your ammunition – placement of the bullet in the casing, signs of Most of us, after returning home unloads the firewear on the rim; arm and put it somewhere safe. It is necessary to check the rim of the case that was inserted and extracted from the chamber many times. If it’s rag- «Check « condition of magazine – if spring feds well ged, in critical situation it may break off and failure or if there are any damages; to extract. «Regularly « change order of the rounds inside the magazine, so not only one round will be constantly inserted and extracted from the chamber;
«Periodically « shoot carried ammunition and replace it. It is good to train with ammunition you carry and on the other side guarantee its condition. Remember that you can’t go cheap if it is about safety.
Condition: ÄÄ Condition 4 – No magazine inserted, no round in the chamber. For SA/DA — Hammer is forward. For SA/DA revolvers — Hammer is forward, cylinder is clear of all rounds. ÄÄ Condition 3 – Magazine inserted, no round in the chamber. For SA/DA — Hammer is forward. ÄÄ Condition 2 –Applies to Single-Action/DoubleAction primarily. This is a magazine inserted, round in the chamber, hammer forward. For revolvers, it would be rounds inserted into cylinder, cylinder locked into place, hammer forward. ÄÄ Condition 1 – Magazine inserted, round in the chamber, safety on. For SA/DA — Hammer is back. ÄÄ Condition 0 – Magazine inserted, round in the chamber, safety off. For SA/DA — Hammer is back. https://goo.gl/77FELs
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najlepszy magazyn w Europie. elektroniczny o tematyce militarnej
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Another weaponlight from Olight got into our hands latest addition is the Valkyrie PL-2. In contrast to the previous WML from that series, the new model is powered with two CR123 cells. It looks to be an affordable equivalent of Surefire TLR series WMLs, which look pretty much the same!
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Olight
Valkyrie
pl-2
Cheap and good
Story by: Chris „Capitan America” Photos: Michał Sitarski
O
light Valkyrie PL-2 is a reliable pistol
both sides. They work the same as
(1200 lumens) for about 1.5 minute.
weaponlight although some more will-
in previous Valkyries WMLs, but
After that time, in order to avoid
ful users can also attach it to a rifle. It
they have been made of hard poly-
overheating, the power is reduced
provides huge light output and a pretty wide and
mer. Short pressing of any of the
to 600 lumens. After the head cools
bright beam.
buttons will switch the flashlight
down, it is possible to switch it on
The light source is a 1200 lumens Cree XHP35
on. Holding any of the buttons ac-
again in the 1200 lmens mode for
HI LED which together with a reflector is located
tivate the momentary switch, while
another 1.5 minute. Runtimes are
in the head closed with a sealed lens and a steel
pressing both buttons will activate
in the table. The maximum range
cap on top. The head and the body of the PL-2
strobe mode. The electronic circuit
of the light beam, according to the
are made of 6061-T6 aluminum alloy. The back
used for controlling the light allows
manufacturer, is over 230 meters.
of the body includes two symmetrical buttons on
working in maximum power mode
The control switches are located on
a sealed flap that closes the battery
Olight Valkyrie PL-2 is IPX6-com-
compartment (two CR123s put next
pliant and can withstand a fall from
to each other), which is blocked
1 meter.
with a tin latch. The batteries can
Olight Valkyrie PL-2 comes in a
be replaced with rechargeables.
box that contains WML and accessories, as well as a printed manual.
The flashlight can be fixed to the gun by attachment in the upper part – it is a quick-release system, convenient for attachment and removal. The main part of the attachment
In use
When taken out from the box, the
system is a clip with a lever and a
Olight Valkyrie PL-2 makes a very
bar that aligns the flashlight on the
good impression. A sturdy con-
rail. The Valkyrie PL-2 kit includes
struction aluminum body, a steel
two bars – one for MIL-STD-1913
cap to increase falling resistance,
rail and second for Glock pistols
a steel clip that allows fast and
rail.l. The bar is fixed with two
convenient attachment to the gun
screws, the socket head wrench to
without additional tools. I had the
tighten those screws comes with the
impression that I received a product
light.
that had been at least twice more expensive than the suggested at www.fragoutmag.com
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the store. Olight Valkyrie PL-2 replaced my old and, when it comes to modern standards, weak (200 lumens) Inforce APL. The only feature the two flashlights have in common are the butons on both sides of the body. Apart from that, any other aspect is a huge technological gap: output, size, number of batteries, mount etc. According to the Olight’s statements, Valkyrie PL-2 has the 1200
more visible in closed spaces. The
lumens output. At the first glance,
problem appears at 600 lumens:
it is a phenomenal result that even
you can see the target, but it is not
the absolute leader on the market,
that strongly and clearly illuminat-
Surefire, is not able to surpass (al-
ed. The same happens to the sur-
though there are already 1000 lu-
roundings. A huge disappointment,
mens models). Unfortunately, such
especially when you see the differ-
great output can be used for only
ence between that mode and the
90 seconds (!!!). Then the flash-
full-power mode...
light rapidly heats up and its power
Operation is very simple and in-
drops to “only” 600 lumens. Yup,
tuitive. It has double-sided and
it is still a lot, but let’s be honest – there is no such thing as a weaponlight that would be considered too strong. More lumens mean a stronger effect of blinding and disorientation, which will give the user tactical advantage and more time. Anticipating your questions: no, 1200 lumens used in a dark room will not blind you, but it will be a huge problem to struggle with. Unfortunately, if we are to work with the PL-2 for a longer time, for example while searching through an area, the 600 lumens must suffice. The beam generated by Olight PL2 consists of a strongly concentrated main beam and a relatively wide secondary beam. At completely dark 25 meters shooting lane, with 1200 lumens you can clearly see not only the target, but also all of its surroundings. That effect is even
electronic buttons. You switch the
solutions have their pros and cons.
flashlight on with a tactile click. In
In this case, everyone must pick
order to use the momentart switch,
their favorite.
you press and hold the button. One of the indisputable advantages of
While testing my PL-2, I shot about
the Valkyrie PL-2 is the fact that a
1200 rounds. The WML works like
person with large hands can seam-
a charm. However, I spotted some
lessly activate the flashlight with
loose elements of the mount. How-
index finger, without changing the
ever, they are only slightly notice-
grip. Weaponlights with mechan-
able and do not affect its function-
ical switches very often force the
ality in any way. The attachment
user to slightly modify the grip in
rail has no visible bolts that can be
order to activate the beam. Both
tightened. So, at this stage, all I can
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whether it is the issue of this particular flashlight or a general problem of the model. Fortunately, the product goes with a proper warranty, while the loose attachment is so far barely noticeable. That is why I do not bother too much about it. Glock 17 with the PL-2 should without any problems fit in Safariland holsters dedicated for pistols with light. That is why the users do not have to worry about the choice of the holster. Every holster that is compatible with a Surefire X300 or TLR1 should fit the PL-2
Just to sum up, I think that PL-2 is a brilliant weaponlight that you can buy at very attractive price. The Olight’s marketing trick with 1200 lumens is a bit disappointing – I would prefer 800 lumens for 60 minutes over 90 seconds of 1200 lumens. Still, the PL-2 must be recognized since for a small price we can have a cool and well-made weaponlight with significant output. If you are looking for an affordable one, look no further because this is probably your best option (unless you are willing to pay much more).
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do is keep shooting and observe. I am not sure
ex
t Vor
Vort
STORY BY: Jarosław Walczuk PHOTO: Jarosław CIEŚLIK , IKEM Tactical Training, PARE STUDIO
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mS cope
SPI
TFIR
E 3x
Pris
SPITFIRE 3x Prism Scope
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tex
If we would ask shooters which electro-optical sights they recommend, as an answer we would for sure hear names of big, well-known and respected brands. That all right, but their products, despite great quality with excellent parameters they generally have one big fault – their price.
L
uckily for the people who look for decent sight with affordable price tag there are manufacturers which offer such optics. One of them is Vortex Optics with their reasonably priced Spitfire 3x Prism Scope red dot sight with 3-power magnification, designated for shooting at close and medium ranges.
BUILD
Optics that consists of prism and lens with multilayered anti-reflective coating are enclosed in monolithic black-anodized aluminum tube. Outside the tube there are knobs for reticle adjustment secured with metal caps and one knob for regulating reticle backlight. Between knobs and lens, at 45 degrees offset, there were placed short MIL-STD-1913 rails for micro red dots. Ocular lens and objective lens are secured with flaps. Tube inside is purged with nitrogen, what in combination with good seal has to guarantee resistance to lens getting fogged. Spitfire 3x Prism Scope is delivered with MIL-STD-1913 mount. Comes mounted at a lower 1/3 co-witness height of 40.4 mm from the optic center to base surface. Remove the mount riser if a lower 30 mm mounted height is desired.
Technical data: • Magnification: 3×
3-krotne
• Eye relief: 71 mm
71 mm
• Dot size: 4 MOA
4 MOA
• Adjustment graduation: 1/2 MOA
1/2 MOA
• Max. elevation adjustment: 120 MOA
120 MOA
• Max. windage adjustment: 120 MOA
120 MOA
• Length: 139 mm
139 mm
• Weight: 345 g
345 g
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I am avid long range shooter, so I decide to transfer some experience from that field to rifle training and competitions, that requires accurate shooting on the ranges from 50 up to 400 meters.
More precision shooting at those distances put different requirements from the sight, and that is not only clearly visible red dot that can be aimed quickly on the target at 50 meters. As very big fan of Trijicon ACOG and its versatility, so with pleasure I start comparing it to the Vortex Spitfire 3x Prism. Off course, those are two different optics (and totally different price range), but their utility values and designated use are similar. I’ve got this Spitfire to conduct solid test. First thing I was told, was not to go easy with it, both during test and giving a feedback. I use it throughout couple of months, in total something like several dozens of hours, static shooting with bipod as well as dynamic, from the hand, on the distances from 15 to 300 meters. During Protect Home and Your Family and Crazy Santa Clause AR Extreme Shooting competition and also many hours of training and courses. This gives me right to rate the Vortex Spitfire 3x Prism red dot.
For starters
I’ve zeroed the sight on 100 meters to be able to use full potential of EBR-556B reticle. I tested it practically in every outdoors conditions, during heavy rain, in temperature ranging from -1 do + 15°C. During shooting with Vortex Spitfire 3x Prism I was using Barnaul, GGG and Hornady ammunition. Rifle that held tested sight was modified STAG 3 with Plus Package and changed rail, trigger and bolt carrier. .
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WHY I WOULD NEED THAT SIGHT?
L ight tr ans m ission
Light transmission in Spitfire was something that surprised me the most. It was good and clear in almost every condition. I shoot on sunny, cloudy and rainy days, after the dusk and during the night, with light on the target and only backlighted targets. Every time it was clear and decent. Having the comparison to long range scopes and ACOG TA31RCO 4x32 that I was using through last year on the very same rifle, I can honestly say that this sight in its price range has no strong competition and for sure it is worth its price. Generally in the “middle expensive” type of sights we can observe that from few years quality of lenses is getting better – companies like Vortex, Bushnell or Burris chase top-notch manufactures of rifle sights reducing the distance at the same time keeping reasonable price.
Reticle
EBR-556B Enhanced Battle Reticle is fantastic crosshair in so called Horseshoe style, scaled for 55 grains bullet and 16 inch barrel. That minimalist reticle consists of “horseshoe” and four transverse bars of different length and has everything what reticle designated for shooting up to about 500 meters should have. With sight zeroed at 100 meters and .223 bullet flight path, we can shoot from 50 to 200 meters practically without any adjustments. For longer distances correction is set by the bars on 300, 400 and 500 meters – differences on the lengths are single meters and 8-20 centimeters of bullet drop for particular ranges. Aiming at steel plate, silhouette or target figures those differences can be omitted. EBR-556B is designed for quick distance assessment. Aiming by the reticle the width of full-grown man (19 inches – approx. 45 centimeters) we are able to determine whether target is at 300, 400 or 500 meters.
Backlight
When shooting at night or low visibility, backlight might become handy and Vortex Spitfire 3x Prism got it in two colors and 5 levels of brightness. Levels 1-4 works very well, but at level 5 reticle glows too much what makes www.fragoutmag.com
Durability
On two-days “automobile” shooting class, Spitfire sight went through pretty hardcore durability test. Weather did not spoil us much, so rain and sand mud set bar quite high for Vortex. I did not try to purposefully break it, but during the course it was banged up many times during quick disembarking from the vehicle and by the chassis of the car during the work on the top of the hood or under the car. Monolithic aluminum tube with anodized coating provides high resistance to hits and scratches. It is very rugged sight with compact and short build. Both elevation and windage turrets are small, solid and secured with aluminum caps and equipped with rubber gaskets. A concept of mounting caps to the body with steel thin wire, known from ACOG, makes it impossible to lose them. Very handy are also two 45 degrees offset Picatinny rails for micro red dot.s I personally think that on that distances shot can be made just “by the barrel” but if someone will feel more sure with additional red dot, he had possibility and place to do so. Trying to shoot in every condition, I pay attention to waterproofing of the sight. It is very important feature for me and Vortex Spitfire subjected to heavy rains and “mud baths” remains fully waterproof and resistant to depressurizing or dirt. Without a doubt – durability of workmanship is very strong side of this sight; for sure it will withstand even most demanding training or competitions.
Mount
Mount that comes in the kit with the sight is industry standard known from Trijicon or Aimpoint sights. Lower 1/3 cowitness. MIL-STD-1913 rail mount base and mount platform when properly screwed together, act
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aiming more difficult. I personally prefer setting 3 – reticle is still thin, but clearly visible. According to the manufacturer specs, CR2032 battery will last for 250 hours on highest setting and 3000 hours on the lowest, and this is more than enough for long weeks of using. I did not test its durability, but after several dozens of use on “three” I did not notice any drop of backlight intensity, so I assume manufacturer is right in its statement.
as solid almost single piece set. Height of the complete mount – 40,4 mm, will provide comfort for most shooters. It is possible to change the platform for smaller to score 30 mm of height.
Conclusion
Price to value ratio of Spitfire impressive – for relatively cheap money we get complete sight that will suit finest and most sophisticated training goals for AR15. Good backlight, rugged build, clear reticle and lack of plastic parts determine that the only cons are cheap, too loose and fragile plastic lens covers. I’ve already lost one and other is so loose that I will probably lose that one too. This is just one and only stipulation that I have got to Vortex Spitfire 3x Prism. I can consider it as a good alternative for low variable magnification scopes and taking into consideration its price, it will be hard to find something better. Author thanks Kolba Company for providing Spitfire for review.
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Clawgear
Enforc
Story by: Bartosz Szołucha & Marcin Lotkowski Photo: FRAG OUT!
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In the very same time as Clawgear Defiant Flex reviewed in FRAG OUT! Magazine #17, we have also received a second model of pants from that company. The Enforcer Flex are more tactical low-profile pants than their “more discreet� brother. Maybe mid-profile would be the best description for this kind of clothing?
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rcer Flex
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clothing The Enforcer Flex were shown for the first time during the IWA 2017 trade show. These are pants for a wide spectrum of use. They do well as casual urban clothing, your tactical-go-to pants where you do a lot of crash & bang stuff, at the shooting range or on the trail. Wherever you will take them, they will be a good choice. Furthermore, Enforcer Flex have some cool features. It is a good combo of low-profile and tactical pants, so yes mid-profile would be a great description.
From what is it made?
There are eleven pockets in Clawgear Enforcer Flex pants:
The base fabric for the pants is 65% polyester 35% cotton blend in rip-stop. What? The very same cheap POLYCO fabric as in the China made stuff? Not exactly, there are different polyesters, different kinds of cotton and different blends. Even lot of top hiking brands are using this blend in their quite expensive clothing. Clawgear uses the better ones, so easy with it. The weight of the fabric is close to MIL-SPEC 50/50 NYCO rip-stop, it’s not too thick and not too thin, basically I could call it all-yearround fabric. It’s lightweight yet durable. And flexible, but without some fancy Spandex or Lycra content. Yep, they feature some mechanical stretch thanks to the way of knitting the fabric. And it works during different activities.
How is it made? The Enforcer Flex pants have relaxed fit, but not overly baggy, with a straight leg and articulated knees featuring internal pockets for some foam or D3O impact pads if required. Basically, kind of fit we all know from different companies. There is also a diamond-shaped gusset in crotch area, so no problems with mobility and high kicks! Straight leg has cuff with bungee adjustment with cordlock. There is also an alloy hook to attach it to the laces of your boot, so basically you can use them as some gaiters. Basically, the main difference between Enforcer and Defiant are the thigh pockets and their layout, but more about that below. The front closure has YKK zipper and two snaps on the microfleece lined waist. Waist is pretty wide actually. Inside there is an elastic band ended with two webbing straps used to adjust of the girth. The ends of the elastic band are secured with Velcro hook & loop. Pants have five wide belt loops (rigger rescue belts will fit them easily) with the center back one wider and in Clawgear proprietary trapezoid shape.
Two slash hip pockets with the straight bottom edge and knife clip reinforcement. Webbing protects against abrasions and fraying from the clip. Two hidden zippered pockets for your tiny valuables inside the hip pockets. Two cargo thigh pockets with zippers in the upper edge. These are inset style pockets, so there are not sewn on the outside of the pants. This type of pockets stays closer to the leg than standard BDU-style cargo, but has limited capacity. The volume might be slightly extended because of single pleat. The zippers are slightly canted for easier closing and opening. Pocket opens to the rear and closes to the front. In the pleat, in the back of the pocket, there is a metal drainage hole. Open-top internal pocket in right thigh pocket. Could be used to keep a wallet, smarthpone, 30 round STANAG magazine, small bottle of water. During my writing I found there a pretty beaten note. Two welted open-top pockets just above the back part of thigh pockets. Will fit small knife, flashlight or pistol magazine. The edge is reinforced with webbing. Two zippered internal rear pockets. The zippers with fabric zipper pulls are canted and covered with narrow flaps, so stay pretty invisible. Opening towards the spine. Large concealed (internal) pocket on the back of right back pocket for concealed storage of documents or credentials. Small concealed (internal) pocket just under the waist, on the left from the zipper fly. Clawgear Enforcer Flex pants features also two loops just under the lined waist, located near the adjustment tabs. They can be used to attach key lanyard, but hey, do not attach safety lanyard there!
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Clawgear Enforcer Flex Pants comes in variety of colors, so you can easily find the one that matches your work, environment or purse. You can choose from Black, Khaki (more like Sand), RAL7013 (Clawgear distinctive olive-brown shade), Solid Rock (light Gray) or Swamp (tanbrown, close to Arc’teryx LEAF Crocodile). And there are
multiple sizes to choose from ranging from 44R (EU XS) to 60R (EU XXL). Even if you are Slenderman you will find something for you, as they have the X-Long lengths in some of most popular sizes. 52R, so close to US Medium Regular, are 730 grams.
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Thus Spoke Shash What I’ve got from Clawgear, where the Enforcer Flex Pants in swampy Swamp colorway which is far better than others, especially if you plan to use them as your outdoor pants. The dirt is less visible than on the gray or khaki ones. BTW, have you noticed that Enforcers are… multi-culti a bit? Swiss-Austrian company, Polish designers, fabrics from Pakistan and manufacturing in Indonesia. Nice mix! I hadn’t found quality issues in my last pair of Clawgear pants (Operator ones), so I quickly decided to put them in use. Shooting ranges, city use, hiking trail, on bike almost every day, some trekking trips. If you are asking about the reference, I think the Helikon UTP pants would closest to Enforcers. They share similar concept, design and purpose, except the fact that rip-stop fabric in UTPs is definitely lighter and more breathable.
Cut. Very comfortable, but no revolution here. I think that a try of re-invention of the wheel would cause some crazy ideas… The designers haven’t forgotten about diamond gusseted crotch. Want to do Van Damme’s Epic Split? No problemo. The thing what surprised me was the hook in the cuff. Gaiter attached to laces? Well, I would expect that in some softshell hiking pants than in tactical pants, as the regular bungee cord and cord-lock would be sufficient. Maybe Clawgear has a plan to release a softshell variant of Enforcers? Will see in the future. Fabric. Lightweight yet durable, quick drying and breathable. No issue during the hot summer and in winter time just put some long johns underneath. To this moment no rips or abrasions and even after few washes they still hold the color. I can’t see discolorations, especially in the area
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of threads as it happened in my colleagues gray Defiants. Maybe it is a matter of the fabric batch or the colorway. Polycotton does not equal polycotton, everything depends on quality of composites and inks. Quality. Well-made, no problems with broken or crooked threads, etc. Bartacks were necessary. Pockets. Eleven means a lot. I am not sure if you really need so many of them, but they are here. Except one time, just to test it, I haven’t been using the internal concealed pockets. Single conclusion for you: do not put anything stiff there, it will be uncomfortable. The same goes for the welt pockets in the back, I don’t use them as I carry my knife in hip pocket. Wallet, keys, phone usually had their place in the thigh pockets. I really dig the inset cargo pockets as these are well-designed and they are basically flat, so they won’t get hooked on something even if fully loaded. Just to summarize, Clawgear Enforcer Flex Pants are well-designed and quality made britches for all-year-round every day use, tactical and outdoor. Maybe I would trim down some features (lanyard loops, hooks in cuffs, lot of tags and labels inside), but in this particular category of mid-profile pants, these are really good bang for a buck and replacement for my ol’ worn-out UTPs.
LOTOS POV Clawgear Enforcer Flex Pants are another “silent heroes” of my bikers club road trip which was also a testing ground for some other gear. Just before departure I tried to decide what should I put on that fat ass. Thick jeans or brand-new-fresh Enforcers? I made a call, that the trip will be “gray”, so I went with my Solid Rock Enforcers. These are more lean cut pants, not your usual cargo pants, because the thigh pockets are less baggy or saggy and “implemented into” the design of pants. By the way, those have some hidden gems, and are not just another pair of pants… When I’ve put them on, I already knew it was a good choice for the road trip. The rip-stop fabric wouldn’t freeze off my ass and it will dry faster when soaked, faster than thick denim. The hooks in the cuffs passed the test of 400 kilometers, as the wind and air streams couldn’t reach to my shin-bones. I must admit that double-layered knees also did their job, especially that inner layer in this area is microfleece lined and really comfy. So now I can slobber a bit over the amount of the things I could stash in my pockets, how the all zippers worked flawlessly, how the loops did not blow and the pants itself held up. Honestly, the best thing for me was the zippered (zip goes from top to bottom as it should) concealed pockets in
the hip pockets. Those were like salvation on HarleyDavidson rally. Please don’t ask me to explain how easy is to lost your wallet, documents, key or phone during such party. But let’s go back to the pants. The design, the cut and the flexibility of use will help you to prevent of loosing anything. Even when bungee jumping at 5AM. Everything will be in place. Remembering who and what for designed the pants, I started to wear them in more casual and some more tactical scenarios. City use, shooting range trips, etc. Enforcers have everything that tactical oriented clothing should have: proper number of pockets, wide belt-loops, reliable zippers and comfortably canted pockets. Nothing rips or get torn after few months of use. It is a very functional, maybe not innovative or revolutionary, but pretty good and well-thought product. The one thing what bothers me is the “odd season” purpose. Once, in the Clawgear older pants we have found 11 layers of fabric in one place! In summer these were too thick for me, in winter they will be too thin. Maybe they will work in the autumn, except the fact that’s the rip-stop. Well, we’ll see. The adjustment band does the miracles, but the two snaps on the front, above the zipper fly, quickly started to open. Is there anything more annoying that
pants which open up by itself? Well, maybe in some scenarios this will work… The lined waist is comfortable, but after intensive use the microfleece makes you sweat. Pants are quick drying, but they fade pretty quickly (few months of use and few washes). I am not sure if those are best pants money can buy, but are pretty good compromise between casual and cool guy tactical pants on shooting range. I really dig the Solid Rock gray colorway, and I am sure that after appearing in those at shooting range, you will quickly hear “Hey buddy, what a nice pair of pants you have!”.
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Story&photo: FRAG OUT! Team
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Although the Austrian Carinthia is best known for its sleeping bags and insulation jackets, it also offers a selection of hardshells and softshell and, although they are on the very edge of the offer, they are worth noticing. Somewhere in the late spring of 2017, we received four new Carinthia ISG 2.0, the latest iteration of the hybrid softshell jacket
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Carinthia ISG 2.0: The insulated softshell or softshelled puff jacket?
The new version did not significantly differ from the previous one, but the minor tweaks were implemented. Carinthia ISG 2.0 is a hybrid created as a combination of a softshell and a down jackets merged into one. The parts of the body, the hood and the sleeves were made of a three-layer softshell laminate, while the front and the back – of thin quilted nylon with insulation fibers inside.
DESIGN The jacket has an alpine, almost slim fit cut that makes it stick close to the body. It ensures high thermal comfort and (if we wear proper layers under the jacket) good transport of moisture to the top. Unfortunately, it also “highlights features” of the user, so you either do something about it or have to remember to pull in your beer belly. The softshell fabric in ISG 2.0 is smoothfaced two-way stretch 3-layer laminate with nylon (Polyamide) outerlayer and PU breathable membrane. The fabric is DWR coated for the water resistance. The softshell laminate is durable and resistant to pilling. The insulation “panels” are sewn in a way that forms narrow, horizontal compartments, thanks to which the insulation does not shift or roll up. The filament is a proprietary Carinthia G-Loft Si synthetic insulation (40 grams per sqm) with additional aluminum foil thermal screen improving the thermal insulation. Although it is impossible to notice it from the outside, the lining is also present on the shoulders. The outside of the shoulders area is covered with highly-durable Schoeller Keprotec
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abrasion resistant fabric, so that the jacket is well-protected against abuse. The Keprotec has very rough texture, so it also works as a stabilizer for pack’s shoulder straps. Keprotec was also used for the zippers “garages”. Carinthia ISG 2.0 is front-fastened with a 2-way waterproof zipper that goes from the bottom edge to the top of the collar. Under the zipper there is a wind flap for improved thermal insulation. Wateproof zippers were also used for the pockets (front and sleeve ones) and in the ventilation ports on the sides of the jacket. What is interesting: the main zipper and pocket zippers have plastic pull-tabs, while those in zippers of ventilation ports have taped ones. In the legacy ISG jackets, users complained about the material piling on the sides due to abrasion of the plastic pull-tabs, when the zippers were pressed against them. There is an elastic drawcord in the bottom, with adjustable cord-lock to keep the excess from hanging loose below the edge of the jacket. The cuffs of the sleeves are elastic and provide tight fitting to the arm.
Carinthia ISG 2.0 has eight pockets in total: Ä Two chest front pockets. Quite large with interior lined with microfleece, can be used as handwarmer as well. Ä Two zippered sleeve pockets. Closed with vertical zipper. They hold even large smartphones or other flat items of similar size. Velcro loop panels for patches or ID are on the outside. Ä Four internal pockets. The top ones have zippers (and can be used to store, e.g. a wallet, a cellphone, or documents), the bottom ones are opentop. All the inner pockets were made of microfleece knitted fabric.
ISG 2.0 has a stand-up microfleece padded collar. It also includes a detachable softshell hood with a soft nylon lining. Hood can be worn rolled up in the collar, on the back, or it can be simply removed (it is attached to the jacket with a zipper and two snaps). The storage compartment for the hood is located in the back collar and fastened with four Velcro straps, so regardless the way you wear the hood, the collar will not change its shape and have any loose elements. The well-adjusted hood has a profiled visor, so that it will not fall on the user’s eyes. It also has two drawstrings (one in the front edge and one at the height of ears), which allow accurate fitting to the user’s head.
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In 2017, I went for a Harley-Davidson rally (about 500 km from the place I live) and I took bunch of cool items with me, so that I could share my experience with you later on. Carinthia ISG 2.0 was one of those. I immediately wore it and rode towards the sea. A journey at the beginning on July, the speed… within the permissible limits on a highway, dust, sun, wind – just a phenomenal trip! Phenomenal and convenient, phenomenal and comfortable, phenomenal and stylish! You know – holidays and summertime are not the best moment for tests of such a jacket, but… I went to the Baltic Sea coast where the conditions in the evenings and the mornings are far from tropical. I started my testing on the Day 1. I did not need any other layer to lay comfortably on the cold sand. ISG 2.0 immediately gained my respect because when you wear it, you do not look like the Michelin Man but rather as if you wore a sweatshirt from Blade Runner. Thanks to the motorcycle, I learned that the jacket is convenient, light, and provides the maximum comfort both when you ride the motorcycle and when you dismount it. Of course, we started the serious testing in Fall and the jacket should have received the “Gold Award for Comfort” at that time. It made my everyday life simpler when I was on the street or in my car (the jacket is short and slim fit). It has become my favorite piece of garment that provides me with the necessary comfort and “that style”. Of course, its functionality under field conditions is of invaluable – no wonder, such was its purpose! So, you can treat it as your “transitional” Fall/Spring jacket, but if you wear it with proper configuration of clothes, you can use it more often. OK, now to the point. For me, the hood is a significant element (adjustable, with the possibility of storing in the collar or removing it completely), low weight (about 800 g), very comfortable in use (nicely shaped sleeves with pockets and anti-abrasive pads for the shoulders), and finally that G-Loft on core that has its work done. Oh, I almost forgot about my favorite two-way front zipper. In my opinion, it is a very convenient feature which makes the jacket adjustable to activities performed at a particular time. When running at the shooting range, one may often experience “overheating”, but it can be easily dealt with thanks to the side zippers that increase ventilation and air circulation, which improves thermal comfort. Some of you may point out the lack of insulation in the sleeves themselves, but I have not experienced any problems with that so far – they are fine as it is. The fabric of the jacket is “quiet”, although I had thought that I will become “the rustling king”. You know, a puffy jacket with softshell sleeves and some rough material on shoulders… but no, it is all fine. The Keprotec panels will bravely hold your vest or pack on the shoulders. Well, they won’t be as efficient as some adhesive, but they are still a great solution to keep your equipment in place. Compression is quite a substantial feature. You can always have ISG at hand, because you can greatly reduce its size, while such a package can be easily strapped onto or put inside a backpack or attached to your motorcycle. The jacket is stylish. It looks as if tailor-made for some Sci-Fi movie, while looking at the quality and care it was made with – it is a superb piece of clothing. Black or olive – it does not matter because either way it looks and performs well! I am certain that everyone who tries the jacket on will be satisfied. The price, however, is slightly “bone-breaking” (all in all, 250 euros is a nice sum of money), but I must admit that such a universal product is a long-term investment, no matter whether you will go hiking, visit the shooting range, or have a motorcycle trip to the seaside.
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LOTOS REVIEWS
COATEE’S TEST Always look cool We all know the Three Rules of Special Forces. „Always look cool”, „Never get lost” , „If you get lost, look cool”. Carinthia ISG 2.0 is a jacket that I have been using for more than half a year. I will be honest with you – we are great friends now. We have spent a lot of time together, regardless the weather, time of day, and activities I participate in. Rule no. 1 – Always Look Cool When I received my package, I started the most pleasant stage whenever I test new equipment – unboxing. The jacket comes with a compression bag. ISG 2.0 can be seamlessly packed into the bag and reduced to the size of a huge tic-tac. My problem is then over, and I can add it to the rest of the “organizers”. I must admit I have been wondering how the jacket would look like after a long storage. After taking it out and putting it on, I hardly noticed any wrinkles. Carinthia ISG 2.0 is uncompromising. The cut of the jacket is athletic. It is a standard Slim Fit shape, which fits well to the user’s body. A word of warning here – yes, the jacket motivates the use to take care of yourself, so if you are a proud owner of the so-called “tactical paunch”, the jacket will ruthlessly accentuate it. If you stand in front of a mirror, it will classify you without any second thoughts. Do not expect mercy, everything, especially including the MKR (Mobile Kriegs-Reserve) growing over your waist will be distinguishable and outstanding like an albino in a group of Maasai people. Rule no. 2 – Never get Lost Carinthia ISG 2.0 surprised me with a well-though arrangement of pockets. However, I have some “ideological” reservations concerning their functionality. First things first – inside the jacket, both on the right and the left side, there are two pockets. One, at the height of the chest, has a zipper, while the second is a simple that is a perfect hiding place for straight, flat items. Any additional thing put inside those pockets will, due to their arrangement, accentuate the most annoying male muscle, i.e. the beer muscle, and then you break Rule no. 1:). Unfortunately, the same is with the outer zippered pockets . BTW, these are perfect for envelopes. Why? Read once again what I wrote two sentences before. The only two pockets I use are sleeve ones. They can easily hold a 5.5-6” smartphone and some small items, while their arrangements and zippers make the access convenient. The jacket also has a removable hood that, if necessary, can be rolled up and hidden in the collar, which provides the user with nice warmth seal around the neck. It is also a convenient solution because when the weather changes, you can immediately take the hood out and protect yourself against wind or rain. An option for the lazy? You remove the hood and hide it in your closet, then you will only find it in the most unexpected moment. What I really like in ISG 2.0 is that despite the fact that there
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are six zippers on the outer side of the jacket, but their de-
works very well, but the rest of the jacket is a three-layer softshell.
sign and placement make them almost invisible, but one
It is a decisive feature if you intend to wear ISG 2.0 at temperatu-
can see the ideally incorporated narrow black straps, when
res below zero or on days with strong wind. In such situations, it
your jackets is all black.
is crucial to wear an additional layer under the jacket – I tested
Rule no. 3 – If you get lost, look cool
Arc’teryx LEAF Atom LT and must admit it was a bad idea. The
For over six months, Carinthia ISG 2.0 has been my prime cho-
thermal comfort was provided everywhere except for the sides,
ice in terms of a light jacket for everyday use and for longer
on which I clearly felt an unpleasant chill. Then, I tried using PCU
trips that last a couple of days. Its “hybrid” construction indeed
Level 3A (with Polartec Alpha insulation) and it worked perfectly.
works well, providing warmth, whenever needed, and with
So, remember – when it is windy and cold, your additional war-
phenomenal freedom of movement in any situation. I really
ming layer must also provide warmth for the sides.
like thermal comfort, which very often gives my dear friends
3. Vents. It is the lamest element of the jacket. They sit too low
reason to make fun of me. I will never forget their jokes when
and can be opened only in one direction. I’d prefer zippers at the
they met me wearing my ISG 2.0 on one sunny day in June.
same height, but two-way ones, sewn-in in a way that would
What is interesting, even today (at the end of December) with
make them start in the armpit and end in the half of the side of
temperatures around 0 oC, I wear my ISG with a hardshell on
the jacket.
top of it and I feel warm!
4. Pockets. Eight... that’s a lot. To be honest, it is not a disadvan-
If you do not know what to take for your travel, you are una-
tage because it is better to have more pockets and do not use
ble to guess the weather, or you just have purely aesthetic
them rather than have less than you need. I usually use sleeve
problems – the choice is simple! If you want to look cool,
ones and the top inner ones. On the sleeves, I carry a Kydex wallet
Carinthia ISG 2.0 will add 10 points to your style.
and documents, while the inner pockets are for documents and
PS Ps. 50 sit-ups a day or the Weider Aerobic 6 Pack training
smartphone (the access is easy and insulation extends the battery
are a must!
lifespan). I sometimes use the front pockets to warm my hands, sometimes I also use them to carry thin gloves or keys (because
RABBIT’S POV
yeah, additional items in those pockets can ruin your
Carinthia ISG 2.0 is very universal – it
looks).
can be used as stand-alone garment or
5. The hood. I did not remove it, it is usually rolled out
additional layer. I have been using it all
on my back, sometimes rolled up in the collar. On some occasions,
the time since the spring 2017. I wear it very
it saved my a… I mean my head from the evil chill. It is soft, warm,
often and when it’s too warm for it, I still usually put it in my
and comfortable with good fitting. In my case, if I roll up the hood
pack (in the compression bag). The size of the bag and the
into the collar, I still have some comfort when I completely fasten
weight of the jacket make it a decent, unobtrusive package. I have worn that jacket in all seasons, including summer, whenever the weather happened to get bad or we were on a cruise and it got windy. I wore it in spring and autumn, when it was cool outside, as well as in winter at temperatures just above 0 oC and on frosty days. I have been using it in city and in the field, at the shooting range, when driving a car – in many places and under various conditions. It performs well and is a universal piece of garment, but there are several flaws I must point out. 1. ISG 2.0 is unforgiving. If you have a belly, people will see it. I keep trying to lose some weight (and it’s working!), so I do not look that bad (yet not perfect) and the jacket encourages me to try harder. 2. The insulation on the back and the chest
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You can use the jacket as an additional layer, under another piece
that has a stand-up collar, no way I am going to fasten it be-
of clothing, or stand alone. But it must not rain, because the thin
cause it would mean death from suffocation. That is proba-
nylon has poor waterproof properties even it is DWR coated. It will
bly the reason why I wear the hood rolled out on my back.
withstand a drizzle, but nothing else
6. The front zipper. Initially, I had serious problems with faste-
The cut of the jacket is alpine-style slim fit, but does not obstruct
ning it. Later on, I either learned how to do it, or the zipper
movements in anyway. There are many zippered pockets you can
itself become loose after some time. Or both. Nevertheless,
use them to carry all your necessary junk. The removable hood,
it now works perfectly. What does not work? The windflap
in my opinion, makes the design of ISG 2.0 unnecessarily com-
underneath. It keeps rolling up and has to be straighten up
plicated, but there are people who fill find the opportunity of
before fastening.
removing it an advantage (but they will regret that decision as
7. The compression bag. A wonderful feature. You change
soon as there is strong wind and they left their hood at home).
your jacket into a micro-package that can fit anywhere.
On the sides, there are zippers used for ventilation – it is cool the
What is cool, you can then take your ISG 2.0 from the bag
CAarinthia added such a feature, but I think they were sewn-in too
and it is ready to go. No wrinkles.
low, not at the height of the armpits. They are only one-way zip-
8. All the other elements – sleeves, drawstrings, Velcro, etc.
pers. With enough effort, you can use them to draw a gun from a
It all performs well.
holster worn under the jacket, but I do not recommend that.
It is a great, universal jacket that can be used for the whole
On the shoulders, there are sewn-on Schoeller Keprotec reinforce-
year (alright, alright, below -5oC you should rather use it as
ments – there is no way that straps of a backpack could damage
an inner layer, while at temperatures of +12oC – only on
jacket in the this area. The relatively high collar was padded with
windy days). Its price is high, but it is a piece of clothing
microfleece – nothing will not rub against sensitive skin.
sewn well, from good materials. It is worth it.
I received my ISG 2.0 in such a period that it was possible for me to use it under all weather conditions out there – starting with
SHASH KNOWS IT AND HE WILL TELL YA ALL
frost to sunny warm days. My first note: the jacket is too thin for
Carinthia ISG 2.0 is a great piece of gar-
gest period I used the jacket for was three days straight, when it
ment intended for various purposes. It is
served as an main insulating layer during a “green side” training
generally a mixture of a puffy jacket (synthetic insulation)
class. Sometimes, especially during night stops, I really longed for
and a softshell. It is not the first such hybrid on the market,
sleeves with an insulation. Yet, the main purpose of this jacket is
but this one was sewn in a peculiar way. You can actually say
to provide warmth for the body.
that the designers took a softshell, cut out holes on the back
ISG 2.0 is light and takes little space in a backpack – all
and the front, and sewn-in quilted G-LOFT insulation panels.
thanks to the compression bag that is provided with
serious frost and too warm for temperatures over 15 degrees. But you feel the best comfort in temperatures around +5 oC. The lon-
the jacket. Just to sum up. Carinthia ISG 2.0 is a great every day carry jacket, you could even call it causal one for Fall or Spring. It could be also used as back-up jacket in your car trunk or in the pack. There are some things that could be improved (welcome ISG 3.0) and then it would be close to a perfect one!
clothing
it on a bare neck. But if I wear something under the jacket
Story by: Bartosz Szołucha, Marcin Lotkowski, Marcin Płassowski PhoTO: FRAG OUT! TEAM
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equipment
The famous German outdoor gear company Tatonka few years ago launched Tasmanian Tiger brand due to increasing demand from tactical market. In 2017, they added Tac Modular Pack series to their backpack offer which, we got right after IWA/EnforceTac 2017 for a long-term review. In FRAG OUT! #18 we have shown you Tasmanian Tiger Tac Modular Pack 30 Vent with fancy ventilated carrying system. Now is time for more classic version,
the Tac Modular Pack 30.
T
asmanian Tiger Modular Pack 30 is a 30 liters pack that could fit as an “assault” or 3-day backpack with single compartment construction closed with a flap on top. Slick and quite streamlined and thanks to its outdoor roots it doesn’t scream “tactical” from miles. It must be noted that despite similar name and overall concept, both versions of packs are different from each other. The 30 Vent model is more urban low-profile pack, when Modular Pack 30 is more military field pack.
F
ABRICS To reach the lowest possible weight of the pack, but without sacrificing durability, Cordura 700D was used for main compartment. In places with less chance to be damaged, much thinner but densely woven (for better durability) T-SQUARE RIP 210D rip-stop nylon is used.
D
ESIGN Backpack has a kind of low-profile single compartment construction without any sticking out pouches or sewn on front. It is slick and streamlined as mentioned earlier. Even it has a top flap it isn’t a top-loader type of pack – it has a zipper sewn like in inverted U-shape which allows to open it almost to the base so the sides of the main compartment make flaps laying on flat and give access to whole interior. This type of closure is called clam shell style sometimes and most known packs using it are Arc’teryx LEAF Khard/Assault.
In the flap there are three pockets in total: flat one in the lower part closed with vertical zipper (for storing flat items, like maps, etc.); in the upper part pocket closed with two-way zipper, with built-in organizer with open-top mesh pocket a small pocket with a flap; internal mesh pocket on the inside of the flap. www.fragoutmag.com
stiffener. Stiffener has a shape of slightly profiled panel with oval holes for improved ventilation and weight reduction. If the bladder is used, hydration tube can be routed through side elastic slits or trough short, centrally placed zipper sewn just above suspenders. On the outer side of flap are 7 rows of laser cut MOLLE/ PALS slots, 4 cells each and one row with 2 cells. Minimalist, but clearly enough. This pack is not meant to be a platform to attach a shitload of additional pouches and pockets. Of course, it doesn’t lack a Velcro for patches or IDs. Similar MOLLE slots (6x3) are placed on sides of main compartment (30 Vent has elastic side pockets in that place). Right above are compression straps.
equipment
Internal side of tail flap is lined with loop for customization. And with the customization – it’s loaded with pockets. Together with pack comes a set of three modular pockets which can be adapted to own needs and set pack’s interior as we please to. Two are mesh pockets and one thin nylon. Additionally, there is also a holder with two elastic bands working as weapon keeper. On the inside of side panels of main compartment are wide Velcro panels with laser cut MOLLE/PALS slots which can be used for even more pockets/organizers attachment. Back is similar, underneath it is there is a flat pocket which can be used to store 2 liter hydration bladders (3 liter will also fit but it takes a lot of space), but its main purpose is to held removable plastic back
S
USPENSION SYSTEM Tac Modular Pack 30 uses classic suspension system based on mesh lined back with two pads creating an air tunnel along spine line. There is a polymer stiffener inside and two aluminum profiles which can be bent to owner’s needs. Detachable waistbelt features padded side “wings” with small pockets closed with zippers. Genius idea! Very soft and mesh padded suspenders in flattened S- letter shape are fully adjustable and feature an adjustable/removable sternum strap. Length of suspenders and its fit to the pack is fully adjustable, moreover there is possibility of additional stabilization of loaded pack with angled stabilizing straps which connect main compartment with suspenders. Suspenders have plastic D-Ring for attachment. There is also a webbing carrying handle just above the suspenders. Tasmanian Tiger Tac Modular Pack 30 Vent is available in 5 colors – solid Black, Khaki, Olive Green, Coyote Brown and in MultiCam camouflage pattern (frankly, with coyote brown webbing).
L
OTOS IS TESTING
Yeah, finally getting everything in order after a trip! Explaining right away, since the times of indestructible ALICE pack I have always faced a problem with a stuff inside my pack. Despite my hardest efforts I always ended up having a mess inside and when it came to getting something out, I was taking out like half of the things I carried and then pack it again, repack it and there was always too little time. Lst year I made a trip with my TT Modular Pack 30 and my life will never be the same. As a guy who wants things just by looking on them (that looks cool, I want it, this kind of) I was instantly taken by the modern look of the pack, lots of zippers, hook and loop. And you know, Cordura 500D in Multicam so something which I always crave.
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equipment
I started packing and had already smile on my face as I had access to the inside of the back thanks to its zippered main flap. You just pull that two-way zipper and that’s all – inside is available in its full glory and those pockets mounted on Velcro inside. Cool thing is that two of them has a mesh on top which allows to quickly see what is inside and labels to write something (mostly when we consider carrying in the something most of the time). There are also weapon straps but I haven’t used them… yet. Well, so I started to pack for my 3 day trip, so I packed, Carinthia Tropen sleeping bag, stuff, clothes, repack them, I zipped It up and… damn that’s all and I still had a lot of space. I am no an Ayatollah of Traveling, I do not own 10th dan of packing, but believe me: that pack gives you a lot of possibilities, it has crazy functionality.
I’ve pulled all the compression straps, packed all my papers and mostly used stuff to the top pocket on the main panel (from inside there is a mesh so you can see what’s inside), regulated all the straps – Padded Back System (TT) is super comfortable, while back panel gives a feeling of control where the “stuff” is and centrally place air canal does his job quite well. And you know, it was a bike trip so the less on back the better. Tasmanian Tiger Modular Pack 30 is perfect for me. Not too small, and not too big. During the journey I appreciated carrying system which was very comfortable even in those conditions (bend silhouette and air blowing frontally). I didn’t have a feeling of burden or suffocating as I had with other packs. I must add that pack itself is very light (1,5kg) and handy and compress very well so
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equipment
with a little of inventive ideas it can be configured perfectly to the needs of user. I was convinced by that when I was using the pack for short range commutes when I needed something to just thrown my stuff into. I set up the interior to transport ammo and the rest of the gear without a problem but trying to hold helmet with that bungee strings on flap wasn’t quite OK to be honest… Very unstable and rather for a moment. Bungee works well for clothes or light sleeping bag for example. Sides of the pack has laser cut MOLLE/PALS. Here I had additional external pouches. I’ve liked a lot all the routing ports for tubes or wires and that they are on both sides. And THE THING of whole pack: waistbelt and its two pockets. For me it was ubercomfortable during the trip as in the reach of my hand I had everything, keys, phone, lighter, highway ticket etc. Relatively, the name Modular means everything when it comes to functionality of that pack. And I can tell you without hesitation that it is worth to pay 200€ for that pack. You don’t buy them every single moment so if you look for functionality and comfort on first place and, of course, military cool factor, TT Modular Pack 30 is a must.
C
OATEE’S OPINION There is a small country on the southern hemisphere. With great landscapes, friendly for the rest of the worlds, living its own pace on the side of the big world. Country which has given an amazing sports team, the legendary “All Blacks”. Thanks to their look (they always play wearing only black) and Haka ritual Maori warriors dance they bring fear to hearts of their opponents. New Zealand’s rugby team is a legend and is considered the best by many. Tough guys who mustn’t prove anything to anyone. They just walk out and do their job. From nearly 10 months I have been using black and discreet Tasmanian Tiger Modular Pack 30. First, from long time, I have experience with a pack that doesn’t have to prove anything. On my disposal I have an option which in one moment is a regular pack with all of its cool stuff and in the other moment I can transform it into comfortable… one shoulder bag. TT’s big strength is in his enormous ability to adapt it to every single need of the owner. I use it in the simplest configuration without waistbelt which nearly doesn’t effect on comfort and works great on daily basis. In such config pack has much less sticking out parts, it gets more slick and streamlined. Discreetly placed MOLLE/PALS on outer are nearly invisible and for the naked eye it is just a cool looking modern urban pack. There is more fun, when we will open it. Well designed system with Velcro lined internals and the set of 3 pouches plus keeper to mount bigger stuff. It has also hydration bladder compartment, but I have been using it as a pouch for my 13” notebook. It which secures it very well and after opening the pack there is no chance for www.fragoutmag.com
Backpack is well-made and it held well in rain few times. It is not a waterproof bag, but it keeps stuff safe and dry in mediocre rainfall. I haven’t noticed anything to be wet inside and once I was afraid it would be as I got caught by a downpour in Bieszczady Mtns and had a camera inside. Everything was fine with the stuff even when the pack outside was damp. For now, it is my number one pack. There are not a mere words as I got used to its functionality so much I have it by my side every single moment. My photo bag is collecting dust since I got TT Modular Pack 30. It doesn’t have to prove anything, as legendary “All Blacks”. You buy, start using it and you know you can depend on it.
equipment
notebook to slide out. Accessory pouches are a blessing for me and I don’t even imagine not using them. I use them as: camera pouch, general stuff pouch for extra batteries, camera flash wireless unit and in the third one there is always set of two flash lights. What’s more, each pocket has a label to describe the content that really makes life easier and thanks to that I know what and where is. Fun fact – I still have enough space to pack myself for a 3 day trip and I tried it several times so far. Another advantage of this pack is surprisingly big pocket on top of it with great access to everything inside.
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equipment
R A E G shooting
for
asses, especially cl g n ti o o sh e th r oice of the gear fo ch r e p ro p , starting from t se u u o b e a w g r a in e k g in e th th le f peop y configurations o n a m Quite often I hear ve a h e W s. e d tactical cours those dynamic an dy armor kits. o b ll fu e th to p u s low-profile setup
1
4
6
7
10 AUTHOR: IKEM Tactical Training PHOTO: IKEM Tactical Training / PARE.PL
2
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individual preferences. There are some rules of thumb, we should remember about. Many of our students asks us what they should wear on their belts. We don’t have an ultimate solution for that problem, so we decided to write a series of articles, where our loadout will be explained and quickly described, why we have it. Of course, the tactical loadouts will be the common ones, but some sport and concealed carry setups will be covered too. Below you will find a kitlist for tactical shooting classes. It is a mix of the best solutions from wide array of companies from all around the world, but in future we will also show loadouts built from the pieces from single manufactures. Everything is listed left to right and the number does not equal the meaning or priority of the part.
15 11
16
equipment
Equipment should be chosen accordingly to the tasks and shooter’s
1. i 15. Battle Belt.
5. Primary magazines.
Pictured battle belt consist of High Speed Gear Sure-Grip Padded Belt, one of
Usually my primary is BCM or PWS AR-15 rifle and most of the time I use
the best modular padded belts I have ever use. It does not require additional
Lancer Systems L-5AWM mags which I prefer over Magpul ones. The
belt with Velcro loops as its inner layer is cushioned with the Sure-Grip® neo-
Lancer mags feature stainless steel feed lips with improved durability and
prene material gives the belt a gel-like feel for greater comfort and exceptional
reliable feeding.
gripping power and awesome stability on the move. It can be purchase with or without additional inner belt.
6. i 7. Primary magazine pouches.
My inner belt is rigid Bayonet.pl custom rigger belt with Cobra buckle and
Two different ones. Lucky me, some gear manufactures are deliver-
flat loop for lanyard attachment. Bayonet. pl is one of the best manufactures of rigger belts, proudly made in Poland. Company offers custom belts and individual approach. They can do whatever belt configuration you want. 2. Gloves. These are must-have on shooting range. Not only for shooting, but also for other duties. My choice were Ironclad Grip gloves with great value to price ratio. I did add some paracord loop to each of the gloves, so I can hook it on the belt. These are SHOOTING GLOVES. Not some uber-sturdy and durable gloves. One year of use and these are gone. As every glove of this kind, unfortunately. Disposables. When I don’t use them (and hearing protection headset), I hang them on Black Diamond carabineer mounted to PALS webbing. It does not move and serves as a hanger for gloves, ear pro and even tacker. 3. Pistol magazines. Glock 17 magazines with +2 floor plates. Because there is no such thing as too much ammo. 4. Pistol magazine pouches. Stronghold Group Hybrid EDMP Pistol (Easy Drag Mag Pouch). Well-thought design and awesome quality. Fits almost every kind of pistol mag
ing freebies for T&E. #6 is very low-profile M4 pouch from Ginger’s
you can imagine. Stable and secure. Easy drawing and re-inserting
Tactical Gear and #7 is Stronghold Group Hybrid EDMP STANAG.
the magazine. 8. Multitool. Real must-have for every true man. Essential tool on the range. My
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true top-notch. What I recommend in good dump pouch is a stiffened
but during classes I prefer to have MUT on hand, which is dedi-
top edge. A plastic stiffener sewn into the top keeps it open, and also
cated multi-tool for rifles. Excellent when bolt over-ride happens.
provides support for the pouch, preventing it from sagging shut.
Unfortunately, one of the most expensive ones.stajni Leatherman. 11. Individual First Aid Kit or IFAK. 9. Rescue shears.
Pictured is Velocity Systems/Mayflower R&C Low-Vis Blow-
For cutting clothes, belts and anything else when treating
Out Kit. Small, low-profile and ambidextrous. The only prob-
wounds. Never had a chance to test them, fortunately, in other
lem is re-inserting the internal packet to outer sleeve. 12. Ear Pro. Spending a lot of time on the shooting-range? Remember about hearing loss. Usually I use MSA Sordin Supreme Pro-X in neckband configuration with gel pads replacements.
These
are plushy soft, but after eight hours of constant use, you know that it was worth to buy those. 13. Glock 17 and Surefire X-300 weaponlight. Choice of the weapon is an individual case, but you can’t go wrong with such combo. 14. CAT TQ. If you are shooter and you don’t know what the tourniquet is… better google it fast. Best tool for quick bleeding control from wounds in arms and legs. A musthave piece of every first aid kit. My TQ is mountscenarios than cutting paper and ropes. Better to have it.
ed outside, without any pouch, so it is exposed to UV, dirt, sand and rain. But I can access it really quick. Remember, this is disposable
10. Emdom-USA Dump Pouch.
one-time-use only piece of equipment. Do not use “real” tourniquet
–Usually for spent magazines during training, but as instructor or
for training purpose as it can fail in real-life scenario.
range officer, I carry there tacker, markers, etc. Emdom-USA gear is
equipment
choice are Leatherman ones, pictured is OHT (One Hand Tool),
15. Battle Belt. In this case, the whole consists of an external High Speed Gear Sure-Grip Padded Belt (see item 1). 16. Holster. An important piece of equipment and matter of individual preferences. In my kit, the primary holster is Safariland 6354DO with ALS locking system. One of the best retention system, but still allows for ultra-fast draws. More about 6354DO in future. 17. Lanyard. OK, I have it because I can. Thing you don’t use every day, but if you do… Ready for time, when someone will shout “Get to the choppa!” (with Austrian accent).
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equipment
I have been into the photography for 35 years (if you do not believe me, you can will be cheaper and more pleasant). Many people can be surprised (an old coot) photographer, I have always tried to be prepared and have as much equipment wi and, of course, good zoom. Throughout the years, I have reduced the amount of e I usually use one lens and high-quality zoom. The Fenix FD 41 flashlight has som
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STORY&PHotoS: Marcin Płaszczak Płassowski
EDC
n always use the radiocarbon dating method or watch Altered Carbon, which ) or curious (the guy knows how to develop a B&W film…). When working as a ith me as possible. Wide-angle lenses, standard lenses, compact zoom lenses equipment by learning how to look and how to see. Today, when I photography, mething in common with a good lens.
I have got used to it. Although I have several other flashlights, Fenix FD41 is the one I use the most often. When I think of a short trip to the city outskirts or a longer escapade, FD41 is always in my car, pocket, or pack. To be honest, the flashlight “lived” at my cottage in the woods from May to September, serving as a protbale source of light. Fenix FD 41 has several options that I have become dependent on and one mode that very often came in handy when I was in the woods.
Lights, please!
Thanks to the top-notch Cree XP-L Hi LED (various sources specify its lifespan to be 50,000 hours, thats 5.7 years of constant light!), Fenix FD41 is a source of high-quality white light beam. Let me quote here the manufacturer, so that all the specification geeks can compare their equipment with the one of their friends to be able to argue “why my flashlight is better than yours”. et us start with the modes. There are have modes for continuous operation: turbo: 900 lumens/ ~110 minutes / 1 h 50 min HIGH: 350 lumens/ ~260 minutes / 4 hour; MEDIUM: 150 lumens/ ~600 minutes/ 10 hours
The sequence of modes is the following: Low-Medium-HighTurbo, while the user can switch between them seamlessly with a well-profiled side switch. You turn the flashlight on with a massive switch (compatible with remote switches) located in the rear part. It can be conveniently operated with gloves on. Unfortunately, the flashlight includes only one special mode – Strobe. A pity,at least an SOS mode would be a nice feature, especially because we have a powerful energy source, which is the 3500mAh 18650 rechargeable battery. If it runs out, and there is no chance of recharging it, you can always use two CR123A cells. I used the Strobe mode several times to scare off some foxes. They already learned that we visit our plot on weekends and that we always have some tasty food with us (they managed to steal some snacks several times, when we forgot to hide them in the evening and left them on the patio). A well-checked solution: when surprised by the aggressive blinking light, the animals stand still and can be easily “excused” from your property. I once used that “light un” in combination with “high-energy acoustic distractors” (some of them were pretty vulgar) to scare off a group of boars that tried to breach the fence, which happened to be in their way to reach a source of acorns. After we mount the flashlight on a weapon, we most certainly get a similar effect, blinding or disorienting potential enemy. I checked that out - post-images last for a couple of minutes..
LOW (candle mode): 10 lumens/ ~9,000 minutes/150 hours/6.25 days.
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EDC
Zoom, please!
The Fenix FD41 flashlight features a specific function similar to the focusing in the lens. The rotary ring just behind the flashlight head works analogously as the focusing adjustment ring in lenses. Regardless the direction we rotate it in, it will seamlessly change the level of the light beam from dispersed, which covers almost 90 deg spectrum, to a focused “spotlight” with efficient range of over 300 meters (!). The “zooming” takes place through expanding the distance from the front lens to the LED, which changes the distance from the fixed reflector. All parrt of the device are made of solid aluminum alloy, with precise interlocking, anodized and sealed. The FD41 is IPX 8 compliant (if our flashlight falls 2 meters deep in the water, its light will definitely draw the attention of local fish) and has impact resistance of about 1.5 meter. - the flashlight can be used for self-defense in case of danger. The well-profiled body tube with a grippy finish is convenient, with firm grip, while the head includes an aggressively cut strike bezel that will serve painful memories to our attacker. The flashlight weighs enough (almost 160 grams) to become a strong argument when used by a skillful person.
Impressions, please!
After 10 months of use, I usurp the right to express my relatively subjective opinion. The durability of FD41, quality and precision are at the highest level and I will eagerly compare them to products by LEICA, which are the model to be followed by all the manufacturers in the world. Fenix FD41 is a very solid piece of metal, which also does some great work as a flashlight, performing its programmed functions flawlessly. Some key facts. Ä I need a solid, long beam of light? Check! Ä I have to perform some work and want the strongest light to cover the largest area possible? Check! Ä I want to get rid of unwanted, wild guests from a place they should not be at? Check! Ä Can be used as EDC? Check! Ä A case with MOLLE system? Yup - it is generally attached inside my backpack! I could possibly go on and on about situations when I used the flashlight according to my motto - “IT MUST WORK!” When it comes to that aspect, Fenix FD41 has been meeting and still meets 100% of my expectations. It is plainly visible in the widely understood User Interface, in the case of which you switch the flashlight on by pressing a tail button (when it is half-pressed, it works as a momentary switch), the modes are selected with a convenient side switch, and the icing on a cake, which is the light zooming. A note here, you can immediately switch to Strobe by pressing both switches at the same time. FD41 features one paradox. Operating it with gloves on is more comfortable. The accurate interlocking and the resistance of the rotary focusing make it difficult for the user to operate the flashlight with bare hands, despite the anti-abrasive finish. Let me get back to photography. The flashlight, thanks to its exquisite functionality of “light zoom three-sixty” and four levels of light intensity, is a fairly efficient and functional source of light, which worked when I was taking pictures. It is a perfect solution both as the main (dispersed) light source as well as a spot light that provides auxiliary light on selected elements of the scene. It is another aspect in which Fenix FD41 should be awarded
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“Coatee” out!
Technicalities please! Color: Solid Black
Modes: 5 Maximum light output 900 lumens Maksymalny czas świecenia – 150 h Maximum runtime 150 hours Warranty: 60 months, 6 additional months after registering the flashlight at the manufacturer. Diameter of the body: 25.4 mm Length: 142.5 mm Diameter of the head: 40 mm Weight without batteries: 149 grams Impact resistance: 1 m
EDC
a medal. I am still using it and will probably discover more, new situations during which it will be pretty useful.
ALL ROADS LEAD TO THE SHOP IN OUR STORE YOU WILL FIND
Limanowskiego 65; 42-506 Będzin, Poland; e-mail: sklep@kolba.pl; phone: (+48) 32 265 22 00 Search in good military shops or buy now at kolba.pl
CARBON SEAL 3813 46mm, carbon compound case with stainless steel screw down case back and crown, unidirectional ratcheting bezel, antireflective sapphire crystal, water resistant to 300 meters, carbon compound strap with stainless steel signature buckle, and Luminox self-powered illumination. Swiss Made. Preferred timepiece of Elite Special Forces Worldwide.
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www.luminox.com
SEAL 3800 www.fragoutmag.com
STORY & Photos: FRAG OUT! Team
Luminox Master Carbon
SEAL 3800 series
L
uminox Master Carbon SEAL 3800 Series watches are part of Sea Collection, and they feature the SEAL Trident engraved on the bottom. As all of the Sea Collection timepieces, these are uber-rugged, water resistant watches with hi-viz illumination with proprietary Luminox Light Technology. But from Master Carbon SEAL 3800 you can expect even more.
A
Swiss Rhonda 715 HH6 multi-jewel quartz movement responsible for a precise timekeeping is a heart of latest Luminox watch. It is powered by lithium battery with eight years lifetime. The movement was placed inside the CARBONOX+ case consisting of 40% Carbon in bar form. This amount of carbon changes everything, making the case lighter (even three times lighter than titanium), more durable, exceedingly hypoallergenic, more scratch resistant than most other
materials and more chemical and heat resistant. The watch with the rubber strap weights only 80 grams (or about 97 grams with stainless steel bracelet). Master Carbon SEAL 3800 series watches are “true man’s size” - the case has 46 mm diameter (up to 51 mm in the widest place) and it is 14 mm thick. The case back is stainless steel screw-in with engraved information about the watch and huge SEAL Trident or “Budweiser”. The dial or face is different in various models: l Luminox 3801 has brushed metal-like dial in black color with white numbers from 1 to 12 (calendar window at 3 o'clock position). lLuminox 3803 comes with carbon fiber-like dial in navy blue color with white 12, 6 and 9 o’clock numbers. Rest of the hours are marked with white dots. l Luminox 3813 has brushed metal-like dial in olive green color with black numbers from 1 to 12
(calendar window at 3 o'clock position). For limited time a 3803 version with black carbon fiber style dial and white numbers was available, but it was abandoned. On every watch face there are 24-hour style numbers near the “main” ones. As mentioned above, in the place of 3 o’clock every watch has a calendar window with either black-white or white-black background and numbers configuration. Luminox 3801 & 3801 has white hands and 3813 has black ones. The second hands in all models is bright red. All Master Carbon 3800 series watches feature the Luminox Light Technology (LLT) proprietary illumination technology which makes indications always visible and readable. 24/7/365 and in any conditions. The LLT will work for at least 25 years. Each watch has small capsules with tritium made of breakage- and stress resistant, borosilicate glass
EDC
In 2017 the 3800 series watches were added to Luminox portfolio. They were designed to outperform their predecessors. For almost a year, the FRAG OUT! Team was using the latest Luminox timepieces almost 24/7. So now it’s time to operate for write up about them!
placed on the hands and indices. In contrast to luminescent paints, which require prior “charging” with an external lighting or battery powered illumination, LLT does not require either charging or activation. It glows constantly. The LLT on bezel is Ice Blue and 12H dial is bright orange color, on 1-11H dials are also Ice Blue, as same ashour and minute hands. The LLT on second hand is orange. Bezel is uni-directional rotating diver’s type and rotates to the left. It has engraved white numbers from 5 to 55 and white dots between them. Bezel aggressively textured and easy to grip while wearing gloves. The crystal is not real crystal but scratch resistant anti-glare coated sapphire glass. Stainless steel screw crown improves the water resistance (up to 300 m, so basically you can dive with it, but it’s not a diver’s watch). To use the crown and adjust the date or time, you need to unscrew it a bit and then it pops.
Master Carbon SEAL 3800 comes with genuine rubber strap with metal buckle, but it could be easily replaced with NATO-style webbing strap or stainless steel bracelet.
LOTOS POV When for the first time I saw the Luminox Master Carbon SEAL 3800 on friend’s hand, it looked huge and… shiny. My first thought? It must be totally uncomfortable, heavy and catch on everything. I was thinking, why does he need such a big timepiece? Just to check the time, from time to time? No way... Few weeks later, I was the one to receive the Luminox 3813 for review. Let me tell you what this piece of carbon mixed with glass, rubber and Swiss design is worth. It’s quite angular-ish, but that was not a
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problem for me. It weights a bit, but it is still lighter than I expected. It’s even lighter than titanium ones they say. Yeah, pretty rugged and looks durable. Carbon & Rubber – this mix sounds cool and even after few months of constant use I can honestly say, that watch is built like a little tank. The case is big, strong but quite high, so it can cause some problems with cuffs – sometimes I have to struggle when trying to reach the watch hidden under the cuff of the shirt or jacket. What’s next? Sapphire glass – really strong one, absolutely no scratches after so many months. No glares and no fogging up. Readability. Ability to read the time is important in every watch. Unfortunately, black numbers on green dial does not make it any easier, but after some time you will use to it. The LLT on hands and numbers will help you. The calendar – nothing fancy, I could live without it. After time spent with the Master Carbon SEAL I got used to its subdued face but the white numbers on the bezel are just too bright for me.
EDC
Oh, I would forget about the water resistance up to 300 meters (or 30 ATM) – I don’t think I will ever have a chance to test it.The genuine rubber strap feels nice in touch, it is flexible and does not stink after time. It is textured on the both sides and almost sticks to the skin. It works for me as I wear it on everyday basis and there is no need to check if it stays in the same place. One thing I noticed after use is some rubbing on the bottom surface, but no breaks, cuts or deformations found. The only problem were two strap keepers – the strap sometimes slides out from them. I think they are bit too wide and too flexible.
timeless. It is one of those tiny things (not so tiny to be honest) that will increase your cool factor and matches the tactical lifestyle. I like it very much. Nothing makes me more relaxed than watching the SEAL Trident on the back. I hope it will serve me for years
I can’t complain, in my opinion it is a really neat tactical watch for tactical users. My old Luminox watch I have worn every day as my amulet, but the new one became a piece of my EDC gear. It makes me feel good. It is always cool to have cool things, ain’t it?Just to sum up: the 3813 is awesome. I have this feeling that the rugged design and form will be
Fifth Luminox watch in my possession and I won't’ lie to you – I just love this brand. The Team Leader still remains my favorite, but Master Carbon SEAL gets second place. It’s big and thick rugged tactical watch, the watch I really dig. I have 3813 with green dial because 3803 was to colorful for me. The subdued and
RABBIT’S OPINION
more tactical green dial with low-viz black numbers look great, but the white numbers on the bezel are not so cool. I know, I know it’s for better readability, etc., but I would prefer more subdued colors (green or gray perhaps). No other complaints about the design. It fits almost every kind of my clothing, maybe except the suit. It does not suit the suit. Luminox 3813 is as lightweight as you can almost forget about it on your hand. The strap is far more comfortable than in other watches from the Sea Collection. It is thinner, more flexible and has textured surface. To this moment I have found no breaks or other signs of use, but I try to avoid its direct exposure to detergents. The size of watch is not a problem during everyday use, although it may collide with contact gloves or with elastic cuffs in some jackets. The crown, even it is quite big, is placed in the right place and does not catch on anything. No problems found too.
Readability: better than good, especially because of the LLT which are helpful even in day light. During the nighttime, the LLT literally shines. If you want to stay hidden, just keep the watch under the cuff. Bezel is easy to operate and it is tactile. It seems that it won’t rotate on its own as it happened in my Team Leader. Durability: no problems. I didn’t do any stresstests, but I wasn’t too careful. I have just used it. No extreme stuff, but usual every day carry plus some fun on the shooting range. No signs of use or problems with watch. Absolutely no scratches on the glass, case or whatsoever. And the strap is still intact. The only thing I could complain too where the strap keepers, the strap slides out from them. Cleaning: never had any issues. Tap water, brush, soap and you’re done. Timekeeping and precision. It is not an atomic watch, but sufficient for daily use. After half year of use, the difference between watch and the website I used to set it was like two seconds
or less. I really like Master Carbon SEAL 3813 (Team Leader still rules!), but of course, not everyone will share my feelings. It is rugged, but still pretty simple (date, hour and nothing else) watch. And pretty expensive too.
THUS SPOKE SHASH The Luminox Master Carbon SEAL 3813 – every time someone asks me what kind of Luminox watch I have, I must think a bit because the name is just to long to remember. I won’t be writing about the features as I don’t want to make you feel bored after reading a story about the extreme SERE mission to the local 7-Eleven when Luminox 3813 saved my life because www.fragoutmag.com
I made it to store just before closing hour... I was using it on everyday basis – riding bike, hiking, diving in Adriatic Sea, shooting ranges, some heavy duty work, TCCC course and more to give you idea about scenarios. Rugged. Or rugged as phuck. The Master Carbon SEAL 3813 is ultra-durable timepiece, and I am sure it will withstand almost everything. Alright, I didn’t shoot to it (that would be nonsense at all), but I had absolutely no problems with it. Scratches caused by rocks? Forget it! The durable, matte case is rock solid and it can’t be beaten up. The sapphire glass? Rocks, stones, metal casings flying, gravel and sand? Not a scratch! The thick and aggressively textured bezel with clear white numbers can be used even with heavy winter glove.
EDC
Resistant? As mentioned above, damage resistant for sure, but also water resistant up to 300 meters (or 30 ATM). Of course, I will never ever dive so deep in my life, and I was like 3 meters below the surface I think, but no leaks or fogging found to this moment. I just need to mention that with previous watch I had some fogging issues. It glows! Yeah, it literally GLOWS. Sometimes I was surprised that the Luminox Light Technology produces so much illumination. The hands and hours indications are Ice Blue color and the second hand and 12H markings are orange. The illumination works great, especially on the night hiking the only thing you need to do is to look down to check the time. No buttons or headlamp required to see the time. Why the Ice Blue color was chosen? The Luminox declares it is the last color seen by
human eye in deep blue ocean. Unfortunately, if your ops are blacker than my ops, you may need to cover the watch with your glove or cuff, because the Tangos could easily spot a bright glow from the distance. Rubber strap is genuine rubber, not some cheap stuff. It withstands swear, dirt, salt water, soap and shower gels (I heard that old strap didn’t like the shampoos and did brake) or even DEET, which usually “eats” everything. The only thing you need to check from time to time is the inner side as dirt tends to collect in the grooves. Just to sum up, I really dig this huge timepiece and I can honestly give it thumbs up! Now, it’s time to operate, bro!
We have only one thing so precious we can't afford to waste it. It is the time. We can let it pass by or try to beat it, manage or incorporate in our daily lives, trying to do more, better and further. But as Andy Warhol said “They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself�. Luminox helps me perfectly every day.
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Luminox presents CARBONOX™ The CARBON COMPOUND by Luminox Luminox uses an innovative carbon compound material - CARBONOX™ - for its ultra-lightweight watches, favored by elite professionals and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With CARBONOX™, Luminox creates hightech timepieces with a very rigid and hard finished watch case that takes ruggedness and durability to a whole new level. Luminox has a long history with CARBONOX™, using this material for its watch cases, and some bracelets, since 2006.
Today consumers are familiar with carbon in a variety of goods and equipment where it is used as a lightweight alternative to materials such as aluminium.
With CARBONOX™, Luminox has been at the forefront of applying this innovative material technology to watches for over 10 years.
Carbon materials are regularly used in high tech industries such as construction, automotive racing and aerospace. CARBONOX™ was inspired by professionals around the world who choose carbon because of its perfect combination of strength and durability.
Luminox uses CARBONOX™ to give its watches the rigidity and lightweight durability that consumers enjoy and that make Luminox timepieces “Essential Gear”. CARBONOX™ is a trademark of Luminox.
TECHNICAL FACTSHEET CARBONOX™ consists of carbon powder in varying percentages depending on the watch model • • • • •
6 times lighter than steel, 3 times lighter than titanium Rigid and durable Non-metallic, anti-allergenic, anti-magnetic Strong chemical resistance Very low thermal extension and low heat expansion, weatherproof
CARBONOXTM watch case
CONSUMER BENEFITS • • • •
Ultra-lightweight Extremely comfortable to wear Shock and scratch resistant Does not get hot in warm temperatures or cold in extreme cold climates CARBONOXTM is scratch resistant
DESIGN APPEAL • CARBONOX™ provides Luminox watches with a black matte finish favored by Spec Ops CARBONOXTM consists of carbon powder
For select watch Series, Luminox takes rugged to a whole new level thanks to CARBONOX+™.
CARBONOX+™ is a high performance carbon long bar compound, in which carbon fibers account for 40% of the compound. In addition to the many consumer benefits already provided by CARBONOX™, CARBONOX+™ also delivers: + Ultra-strong watch case, thanks to the rigidity of the carbon fibers + Tensile strength of CARBONOX+™ is twice as high as with CARBONOX™, while water absorption is 3 times lower + CARBONOX+™ imparts a very modern and distinctive gray color to the Luminox watches + Carbon fibers pattern is visible on the watch case, making it an even more appealing timepiece
CARBONOX+TM: Visible carbon fibers
Ultra-strong CARBONOX+TM watch case
CARBONOX+TM consists of carbon long bars
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Some time ago, the „Edge” would only mean David „The Edge” Howell for me. Yeah. the famous guitarist from U2 band. Since less than a year, that word reminds me of cool eyepros.
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Eyewear
Before I got my Edge Eyewear Legends from FRAG OUT! boys, I had had no idea about the existence of that company (and mind that 20018 is the 20th anniversary of its establishment). Its HQ is located in Layton, UT, USA. If someone had asked me about ESS, Oakley, Wiley X, Smith Optics or Bolle, I would have said “yeah, I have known those companies for years”, but the first time I became familiar with Edge Tactical Eyewear was summer 2017. It is when I got my Edge Legends – I have been using them until now and, basically, I have permanently included them in my every day kit.
Design Legends are certified eye protection. They feature nonaggressive design, so they are good for the shooting range as well as for everyday use. You can argue that typical eyewear for shooting purposes can use in everyday situations. However,
if you have to dress officially (I have to), then you look rather odd with such uber-tactical glasses. But the thing is different with Edge Legends. The frames are made of black and matte (or sateen) Grilamid TR90 nylon. Grilamid offers good stiffness and flexibility, as well as high resistance to damages (especially when it comes to tensile and flexural strength) and it is anti-allergic (that is what amazes me the most, back in the days when I was young, it would be difficult to find someone who was allergic to strange things, but today...). What is more, TR90 is very light so the weight of the glasses is low (only 34 g). The frames have been anatomically shaped and they “recreate” the oval of the sides and the facial part of the skull. Temples are straight, bent to the inside, so the glasses fit well on the head. The temple ends are slightly bent to the outside. Thanks to that feature, putting them on is easier and they do not constrict the head. An important note – the temples, when folded, have no contact with the lenses so they will not scratch
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The frame has fixed, profiled “bridge” that form the integral part of the mold and a recess in the upper part at the height of the nose base. This allows to wear the glasses in a way that minimizes the gap between the frame and the user’s face. The lenses are made of highly durable smoke gray polycarbonate. 16% of visible light passes through those lenses and they block 99.9% of UVA/B/C. They also have a layer that provides protection against scratches. The proprietary Vapour Shield technology ensures anti-fog protection even under extreme conditions. The lenses have a variable thickness on the surface (thickest in the center), so that the user has a clear, vivid view without dispersion or distortions.
Legends meet ANSI Z87.1+2015 and MCEPS GL-PD 10-12 requirements. Edge Legends are delivered in a box of thick paperboard padded with sponge. The set also includes: a small bag to store and clean the glasses, a sticker and an Edge Legends badge. Legends comes in four versions with different finish of the frame and in a version with Aqua Precision Black Mirror lenses.
IN USE I have a dozen of years of experience in historical reconstructions (which is not that big of a deal for someone of my age). First, I was a member of a 101st Airborne WW2 reenacting group, then we started to reenact USMC and MARSOC (hmm… before it became popular among the communities).
Eyewear
them as it sometimes happens in other glasses. The side parts of temples, near the hinges, were expanded and enlarged, so that they provide additional protection to the eye sockets. There is also Edge logo and a stylized, “tinted” American flag on each of them.
Recently, I have joined the Blackwater Reenacting Group Poland. And when it comes to MARSOC, my answer is simple: Oakley M-Frame. I had been very satisfied with them, but several years ago I replaced the plastic bullets with sharper ones. However, the need for protection stayed the same, or have even become stronger... One pair is no longer enough. Meanwhile, I tried several models tactical eyewear (at shooting ranges, I still use my M-Frames), but I looked for sunglasses because, due to “tactical” reasons, I like shooting when in motion and outdoors. I have been using the Legends for almost a year and I am definitely a “satisfied, non-problematic customer”, due to four reasons. 1. The design is cool and universal, because you can wear the glasses with a suit or with casual clothing. What is important for me, the glasses also perform well when I am riding my Harley (and we all know that a Harley must be used with an open helmet, because any other will not look good with the bobber). The glasses perfectly fit to the face, which is a priceless feature in the case of a motorcycle without a windshield. It will prevent you from crying during fast rides in the wind. 2. They have some magically tinted lenses that work both in blinding light, in 30-degree heat in summer, as well as provide with clear vision in typical spring cloudiness or low position of the sun in autumn. The lenses do not distort the image during normal use or when I am aiming from a gun or a carbine that I use with an EOTech x3 magnifier. When it comes to optical properties – a divine quality.
4. Last but not least or, to be honest, the most important thing: lenses are resistant to fogging. In spring, I happened to spend a whole day at a shooting range and on that day, I was able to experience all four seasons in just eight hours. There was some sun, rain, hail, some wind; a variable warm and cold weather. There was some running and some shooting (9-hole drills and barricades), some kneeling and lying as well… you name it and it was there. My Legends glasses did not fog up even once and have been providing me with full clarity for the whole time. When I jog (damn right, I work on my endurance) there is also no sign of fogging. When entering a building on a cold day – the same. I do not know how they managed to do that, but it works! And to think that I was skeptical when I saw the presentation of Edge eyewear. I read my article and understood that I created a paean praising the Edge Legends. But believe me, I tried to find any disadvantages and I failed. Of course, one may complain that there are no exchangeable lenses, adjustable bridge, or a hard case, but all of that would be an exaggerated grievance. Shit, you cannot even criticize the price because the glasses cost less than 80 bucks, which is a standard price for ballistic eyewear made of high-quality materials. Alright, maybe the American accent on the frame can be considered as a disadvantage for somebut, still, it is a matter of taste and we all know that there’s no accounting for taste. That is a very cool pair of glasses. What is more, they have a universal style. If that is the style you like, do not even hesitate. In any case: Me gusta!
3. They are perfectly convenient (i.e. no sensation of discomfort at all), both with active earphones and under a helmet (MSA MICH in my case). It refers to both short-term and long-term use – the profile of the frame and the material result in a really comfortable pair of glasses. Of course, I am aware that it might result from individual features and some other person’s opinion could be less optimistic, but I think that I am no deviation from the rest of the society when it comes to the shape and size of the head. OK, people with larger heads (let’s say 59 cm and up) will probably feel the pressure of the temples, but I strongly advise the “mutants” with huge heads to seek for different eyewear. What is peculiar, I was worried that the temple ends (you know, those slightly bent to the outside) would not be compatible with hearing protectors, but I did not experience any problems. www.fragoutmag.com
Eyewear
W W W. F R AG O U T M AG .C O M
Prawdopodobnie
najlepszy magazyn w Europie. elektroniczny o tematyce militarnej
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THE HELMET I once read memoirs of a Vietnam War veteran. In October 1983, when he was watching the news on television, he could not believe his eyes when he saw the soldiers during Urgent Fury in Grenada – they wore strange helmets the shape of which resembled the German helmets used during WWII. It was shocking for him. But what is even more shocking is that it took almost 40 years for Americans to introduce a brand-new helmet type. Story SS
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Story by: Paweł Tworzewski Photos: Michał Sitarski
equipment
ince 1941 to the middle of the 1980s, the steel
S
However, development of technology never stops,
M1 helmet was the basic issue for US infantry.
so the first attempts of designing a new helmet took
Upon its introduction, it was the most modern
place already in the 1950s. The designers tried to re-
solution at that time: it was the first time when helmets
place steel with titanium. Such a solution would allow
had a two-piece design consisting of a steel helmet
removal of the liner, since titanium was resistant to
shell and liner. In comparison to earlier helmets, M1
chipping, it was light, durable, and allowed increas-
provided far better protection of the back and sides of
ing the thickness of the shell without increasing the
the head, while thanks to the application of an addi-
weight. But processing of titanium was difficult; the
tional internal part, the damage caused by steel chips
material was very expensive, and it also appeared that
after being hit by a shrapnel was minimized. What is
the properties of the final helmets did not differ signifi-
more, it’s worth to mention about use of Hadfield steel
cantly from the previous model. I think that the price
with high content of manganese. Despite the low resis-
was a major factor in that case, since a steel helmet
tance to corrosion, it had very food ballistic properties
shell cost the taxpayer $6... In 1961, new liners were
while being relatively thin (~1 mm).
introduced. They were made of ballistic nylon bound by using phenolic resin and then press-formed. The use of ballistic fabrics in production of liners opened new possibilities.
Helmet and body armor where the part of Personnel Armor System for Ground Troops (PASGT) system
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SHORTCOMINGS OF M1
assumptions adopted. The one size did not work well in the case of soldiers with smaller heads, since the center of gravity was pretty high, which resulted in discomfort and generated quite high forces during rapid head movement. It was possible to lower the helmet but at the same time it would limit the field of view. Although the two-piece construction was justified due to ballistic protection, it was problematic in situations when the helmet shell and the liner were made at the tolerance limit. Because of that, the liner would either simply not fit firmly in the shell and protrude outside its edges or be too loosely fitted and would separate from the shell, when a soldier did not fasten the chinstrap. About 50% of the soldiers who participated in testing complained that the standard helmet is too heavy, unstable, and poorly fitted, which resulted from the high center of gravity and did not depend on the actual weight, efficiency of the suspension system, or size.
DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM OF THE NEW INFANTRY HELMET IEngineers from US Army Natick Development Center (known as Natick Labs) decided that in order to eliminate the shortcomings of M1, it was necessary to design a new helmet that would provide better ballistic protection than its predecessor and it would fit well and be comfortable for the soldiers. What is more, it was necessary to use the latest materials. It was important to have the helmet fit well to the soldier’s head and cover as much of it as possible, without limiting the field of view, audibility, or range of movements. The Army Department approved the new design for the infantry helmet and it was implemented in the Personnel Armor System program in April 1970. The R&D program included 29 tests. The basic issue was to prepare a mathematical model of the head and calculate the shape and dimensions of helmets of various size. The designers also analyzed the technical documentation of M1 as well as the solutions applied in other countries. Another major aspect was the ballistic protection, testing of new materials and methods of producing them, as well as the analysis of dam-
equipment
The general disadvantages of M1 resulted from the
age inflicted in the case of previously used helmets. During the program, it was also important to analyze different aspects of the suspension, resistance of helmets to external factors, and the possibility of repairs to allow reusing helmets after long-term exploitation. It was also important to create prototypes to subject them to all types of tests. The amount of necessary work was immense. However, the most important aspect was to design a completely new helmet shape and adjust it to soldiers’ head size.
MATERIALS In the 1970s, several concepts of solutions regarding materials were considered. The Army Materials and Mechanics Research Center, Watertown, Massachusetts conducted research concerning 3 materials that could be used to produce new helmets (not only infantry ones). The selected materials were the following:
PASGT infantry soldier helmet with Woodland camouflage cover.
Ä XP – which was a type of polypropylene film the fibers of which had a directional structure,
temperature. GRP was the least durable option and
Ä LMLD (Low Modulus Low Density) – a type of fiber glass
had problems with polyester resin (which, actually, did not perform too well as the binder). Despite the initial
Ä DuPont Kevlar 29 – aramid fiber.
assumption that the material would be 100% water-
Except for XP, the materials, which actually were
proof, it appeared that GRP had problems with dura-
fabrics, required resin or special layer to ensure con-
bility when exposed to water. Kevlar 29 seemed to be
nection in the lamination process. The lamination pro-
the most promising choice and the final tests as a part
cess of XP, which was a film, only required high tem-
of Personnel Armor System considered only helmets
perature and pressure.
made of Kevlar with basis weight of 11.6 or 9.2 kg/m2
A set of tests was conducted in order to determine
(at the beginning, designers considered the possibili-
the reasonableness for using a particular material. It
ty of introducing two systems with different protection
was not only durability that mattered, but also the sim-
levels).
plicity of processing and resistance to external factors, such as water or temperature. XP did not require
SIZES
any additives and, when arranged in layers at different angles, was a good material itself. LMLD bound
The process of designing a new helmet required
during the lamination process with polyester resin was
data on head sizes. Unfortunately, there was initially
called GRP – Glass Reinforced Plastic. Kevlar could be
no good database. The Ballistic Research Laborato-
bound during the lamination process by using phenolic
ry used the anthropometric measurements from 1961
or polyvinyl butyral resin.
and 1966. Several algorithms were elaborated to cal-
The results of tests conducted simultaneously to
culate the approximate size of a head on the basis of
the research of PASGT on the shape of the future in-
its perimeter, length, width, and height. However, such
fantry helmet were published in November 1975. It was
information presented a high margin of uncertainty be-
determined that all the materials were 30-80% more
cause there were no indirect measurements while they
efficient than M1 with the liner. XP was the most du-
were essential to prepare molds for several different
rable material, but its processing was very difficult.
sizes. Several attempts were made to obtain the lack-
Even the holes for suspension had to be made at high
ing data. The first method, called biostereophotomet-
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ric, appeared to be completely redundant. It involved mensions were analyzed later on. Unfortunately, as long as such a method could be used to measure the whole body, in the case of the head and the diversity of its shapes, the method was too inaccurate. The second proposed approach was the Prince Charmin Method. 600 soldiers from Fort Devens were selected. After that, the computer selected 13 “Prince Charmings” who were to take part in further measurements at Natick Labs. At the laboratories, a pantograph was used to accurately measure heads of the soldiers. The subjects wore special caps that prevented their haircuts from interfering with the measurements. The pantograph collected information on X, Y, and Z coordinates for 400 points on the whole head. The obtained results were used to make wooden molds by using a PASGT helmet prepared for parachute jumps with Desert 6-color Camouflage cover.
numerical controlled milling machine (which was very
Helmets in this configuration where used in First Gulf War in 1991.
vidual variations in sizes of heads prevented the de-
The “bunny ears” retention strap visible was provided to protect the jumpers nose against the hit of the helmet when the parachute was opening.
modern at that time). It appeared, however, that indisigners from determining several average sizes. A new method had to be developed. In the end, it was proposed that dimensions of head would be always measured in the same position by using a special hemisphere with 27 probes – the axes of the probes were to intersect in one point. The subject’s head was stabilized and the hemisphere was always lowered to the level designated by characteristic facial bones. In February 1973, Natick Labs constructed two devices called 3D Numerical Surface Descriptor, which were used to measure heads of 106 soldiers at Fort Devens. The measurements were divided into 9 categories. After the analysis of the collected data and consideration of tolerances in the helmet molding process, it appeared that only 3 sizes would be required. Later, after computer-aided calculations, a sculptor made molds for 3 sizes by using the same devices that had been used for measurements, but with probes set to average dimensions. Thanks to that solution, the headform dimensions were obtained for sizes Small, Medium, and Large. It must be also highlighted that the data analysis also employed the initial database of dimensions of 6600 soldiers and 500 army aviators based on the anthropometric data from 1961 and 1966. The measurements taken with
Back view of the retention strap. It was attached to the rear screw of the suspension with longer screw which came with strap.
the use of a 3D hemisphere were used to adjust the 4 dimensions to the initial 9 categories. The report on results of works was presented in 1974.
equipment
taking pictures with five pairs of cameras and the di-
Standoff distance
Shape of the bottom edge and notches in the shell
Another parameter that had to be determined was the standoff distance of the helmet from the head that
Simultaneously to the research on sizing and stand-
would provide ballistic protection, ventilation, and ther-
off, Human Engineering Laboratories worked on the
mal comfort as well as ensure that the helmet would
shape of the bottom edge of the helmet. As a part of
not obstruct communication or weapon use. The
the works, test models were constructed to determine
Bio-Physical Laboratories at Edgewood Arsenal con-
a shape that would not obstruct the field of view, hear-
ducted tests on 2 selected types of Kevlar with differ-
ing, or that would not collide with ballistic vests, weap-
ent density, which were bound with resin under high
ons, or communication performance. The helmet was
pressure. There were also tests concerning BFD (back
also to cover the largest area of the head possible and
face deformation) with test round that did not cause
provide greater protection to ears and temples. The fi-
the bullets go through the helmet. It was determined
nal selected design had the front edge form sort of a
that in terms of ballistic protection, there had to be a 0.5-inch gap between the head and the helmet shell. A larger distance was unnecessary because in case of bigger deformation the bullets would penetrate each proposed material. Specially designed .22 round was
The original paint of the 1985-dated PASGT helmet
used for the testing as sub-caliber rounds shot from a .30 carbine. The thermal comfort was tested at the Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine by using a special mannequin called “Copper Man� (since it was made of copper). It was used for tests of clothes, including headwear. The tests involved using various helmets: infantry, aviation and football helmets. Several helmets from other countries were also subjected to analyses. The scientists checked the efficiency of ventilation holes and the possibility of increasing or decreasing the thickness of the material layer. The research proved that there was no point in adding ventilation holes or modifying their thickness because the evaporative heat transfer would be only 30% of what could be achieved by taking off the helmet. Protection against cold was insufficient. However, it was proved that, just as in the case of M1, the most reasonable solution was to use a cap in cold climate. The same institute conducted research on ventilation. Plastic molds with varying stand-offs were made. During the tests, it was determined that the 0.5-inch
cap, which looked completely straight when seen from
distance assumed for the necessary ballistic protection
the front. Sides of the helmet had recesses for ears,
was sufficient for the ventilation purposes and that an
which ensured efficient protection and, at the same
increased distance would not change anything. Once
time, allowed wearing radio earphones under the hel-
again, a sculptor at Natick Labs prepared 3 molds, but
met. The tests also covered analyses whether the hel-
they were 0.5 inch larger than the initial ones and they
met did not obstruct shooting and whether that action
became the basis for future designs.
was possible from any posture. In particular, the helmet could not collide with the collar of the vest when the www.fragoutmag.com
ed to improve the suspension of M1. They resulted in
dercut was implemented in the back. Before the final
execution of 10 contracts for 8 cradle and 2 padded
sizes and fitting of the helmet to the head were known,
suspension . In the end, modernization of M1 was not
there were already instructions available on the limits
that significant. The final choice was an interchange-
for location and design of the bottom edge. The report
able suspension fixed with clasps and a two-point
titled “Infantry Helmet Cut Criteria” was published in
chinstrap with a chin cup. Although almost all the pos-
1973.
sible solutions had been tested, it was decided that the
Suspension
best solution for the future infantry helmet would be the classic cradle suspension with a two-point chinstrap with a chin cup.
Still within the period of the LINCLOE program
In the case of the PASGT helmet, the designers de-
(1968-1969), Natick Labs conducted thorough re-
veloped a suspension made from a 1” nylon webbing
search within the scope of modifications of M1 hel-
formed into a cradle, in which a sweatband was attached to the main strap running around the head. At the top of the cradle, consisting of 3 nylon bands arranged in the shape of letter “V”, there was a self-compensating drawstring that allowed height adjustment of the suspension webbing by using a Velcro strap. The whole “cradle” was fixed to the shell with six bolts and A-shaped nuts. A new sweatband was attached to the main strap of the webbing. Its basic element was the nylon band with length adjusted with a clamp. Leather lining was sewed on the band. It was not sewed from the top and there was a Velcro strap between the nylon band and the lining in order to make the whole construction soft and resilient. The Velcro served as a buffer to prevent the fixing clasps from pinching the user’s head. The clasps also had a new design. First of all, they were fastened from the back to preclude release under impact (a solution opposite to M1). The fastener itself consisted of a very small clasp (please, give a million dollars to whoever is able to fasten that without using a sharp pocket knife). The chinstrap included a cotton chin cup that was inserted in adjustment clasps attached on the ends of two nylon bands attached to the helmet with bolts preventing from circular motion. It ensured additional comfort and fit. The band could be unfastened into two pieces from the left side. The Pull The Dot fastener was included. It could be unfastened
mets. Foreign solutions and helmets for other purposes (e.g. sport or industrial safet) were analyzed. In 1968, 8 completely different cradle type suspensions
only by making a strong downward movement.
The first helmets and field testing
were produced. In 1969, research was conducted on padded suspension that could be arranged (similarly
Before the final molds for production of the helmets
to the ACH ones). The webbing used in sport helmets
were developed, all the adopted assumptions had to
produced by Riddel and Welson Davies were also an-
be checked for appropriateness and the helmets had
alyzed. In 1971–1972, further research was conduct-
to be provided to soldiers for testing. 36 prototypes
equipment
soldier was in a horizontal position. That is why an un-
were made of resin with two basis weights of 11.6 and
and M1 helmet. In the end, both types of helmet were
9.2 km/m2 in order to stimulate the final weight of the
deemed promising and their level of comfort and com-
helmet in version with the same and higher ballistic
patibility with weapons and garments was considered
protection level than M1. The helmets had the final size
far better than in the case of their predecessors. Hel-
and thickness and the shells were camouflage painted.
mets tested in April 1974 are very often described as
They were equipped with the final version of suspen-
made of GRP, while they were resin helmets that did
sion and handed over for field testing in April 1974 at
not provide any protection, but they had the shape and
the HEL as a part of the Personnel Armor System. Two
size such as the final combat helmet.
types of body armor were also tested there. The aim of the tests was to determine whether the helmets were
Large scale sizing tests
comfortable, whether the shape should be changed and whether they could actually serve for seamless
In July 1974, large-scale tests were conducted for
performance of all tasks. Heavier helmets were used
the helmets among a group of 400 soldiers from the
during the testing with a body armor of higher protec-
10th Special Forces Group (Airborne). For that purpose,
tion level, while lighter helmets were in combination
the testing included the molds constructed for the re-
with low-protection vests. Both systems were com-
search at the HEL but instead of making full shells,
pared with the set consisting of an M69 body armor
helmets were constructed from a transparent material.
PASGT helmet interior.
PASGT helmet interior prepared for use during parachute jumps. 1985-dated helmet with early chinstrap with cotton cup piece. The paratrooper’s accessories and cover are 1980/1990.
www.fragoutmag.com
Helmet shells had 13 holes drilled at key locations to
Further preproduction tests
been satisfied. Due to the fact that 5% of the mea-
A set of tests and research was conducted from
surements did not fall within the required standoff limit,
January 1976 to July 1978. First of all, people respon-
sculptors from Natick slightly modified the molds that
sible for Personnel Armor System eventually removed
would be used for making future helmets. The molds
the version that had the same protection class but low-
were used as the basis for creation of metal molds that
er weight than M1 helmet. Introduction of two different
were to be used in further helmet tests. At that stage,
systems was of no use. The final choice regarded the
the research program of the new helmet was finished
more protective helmet and vest so, ultimately, the hel-
and its assumptions claimed as satisfied. Actually, the
met was to be made of Kevlar29 combined with resin
program resulted in two versions – one with lower and
with basis weight of 11.6 kg/m2. The camouflage paint
one higher ballistic protection, three metal molds that
on the shells was also abandoned in favor of camou-
finally defined the shape of the inner part of the helmet,
flage covers. The helmet was given a coarse texture,
and suspension. New helmets met all the expectations.
as in M1 helmets, and solid OD7 color. Meanwhile, the
The final report on the program was filed in January
designers developed a special pad for paratroopers
1976. However, the works did not end there.
made of Ensolite (closed-cell foam) and a strap called “bunny ears� that stabilized the helmet during
The United States Marine Corps replaced PASGT helmets with LW (Lightweight Helmet) helmets. The shape is similar to old PASGT. In the picture there is LW helmet with earlier type of suspension.
Late production version of LW with adjustable pads suspension.
equipment
allow determining whether the adopted standoff had
parachute jumps and changed the two-point suspension of the helmet into a three-point system. At the last moment, X-Small size was included for the women who were in the army (there had been almost no women serving in the army before 1978, so the initial research did not take them into consideration). The helmet was approved for production on 26 July 1978 and most of the NSNs were assigned on 2 April 1980. The production launched.
Production version of the PASGT helmet and its elements
Generally, the whole production period of the PASGT helmet should be divided into three stages. From 1980 to 1997, there were no large and important changes in the construction (except for adding Stamp with contract data. UNICOR (Federal Prison Industries) had a distinctive dark glue mark from the glue used to attach the rubber edge to the shell.
X-Large size). In 1997, the suspension was redesigned while since 2005 the parts have been manufactured in Foliage Green color.
The complete PASGT helmet consists of: ● helmet shell
● suspension webbing and fixing bolts ● sweatband ● chinstrap ● cover ● elastic band
Additionally, the following elements are added for parachute jumps: ● parachutist pad
● parachutist’s retention strap, so called “bunny ears”
The following could be attached as optional accessories to improve comfort or safety: ● parachutist impact liner; ● comfort pad; Every helmet had embossed mark with size (M), form number (5), manufacturing date and sometimes manufacturer’s logo. The blackened A-shaped nuts were used to attach the suspension.
● chemical protective helmet cover; ● riot control face shield.
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Helmet shell
helmet was painted once more. Inside the helmet, un-
The PASGT helmet shells, according to MIL-H-44099
put the sweatband (packed in foil) and a small printed
standard, were made of layers of Kevlar bound by us-
manual. Before use, the helmet had to be assembled,
ing a press and a 50/50 mixture of phenolic and poly-
then camouflage cover with elastic band should be put
vinyl butyral resin. The shell had to be molded in a way
on, and other accessories, depending on the needs.
that would ensure basis weight of the final product of
All helmets produced in the 1980s-1990s were
11.6 kg/m2 while the content of solid resin after mold-
painted in FS 34087. Initially, helmet shells were pro-
ing had to be at 15-18%, with the assumption of no
duced in four sizes:
free gaps inside the helmet. The remaining air was re-
Ä X-Small (8470-01-092-7525)
moved by exposure to a temperature of 160oC for 5
Ä Small (8470-01-092-7526)
minutes. Only the dimensions of individual pieces of
Ä Medium (8470-01-092-7527)
fabric that had to be put in the press were specified.
Ä Large (8470-01-092-7527)
Each manufacturer could use different formulas under the condition that the final product had solid density,
Over time, it appeared that the calculations con-
fragments were not smaller than the ones specified in
cerning 99% of the requirements, in terms of sizes,
the standard, while in case of any change in the meth-
were not accurate enough. It appeared that the even
od of production of the shell, the manufacturer had to
Large size is too small. The tests were conducted with-
send helmets for ballistic tests. Each mold had a stamp
in the period from November 1987 to February 1988.
that would be extruded inside the helmet, on its top.
After the analysis of another 8 consecutive anthropo-
It specified the year and the size as well as numbers
morphic tests since the times of data used in the first
from 0 to 9 (that is why we can notice “M-3” next to
half of the 1970s, it was determined that helmets of
the size, where 3 is the mold number). Some compa-
3.26% soldiers were too small, even when they were
nies, such as Specialty Plastic Products (SPP), Gentex
given the largest size. During the tests, it was deter-
or Sioux Lake Manufacturing would put their logo next
mined that even after decreasing the safety limit from
to the mold stamp. The helmet was to withstand an
13 mm to 10.5 mm, still 0.5% of soldiers would be out-
impact of a sub-caliber .22 round with speed of 2000
side that limit. On the other hand, the usage of helmets
fps shot from an M1 or M2 Carbine. PASGT helmets
with lower safety limits did not seem to be a good idea.
have never been bulletproof. All the tests that can be
Another problem was the low number of soldiers that
found on the Internet where people shoot through the
could be used as subjects for measurements. It was
helmets are completely unreliable. A helmet lying on
estimated that there were ~3600 soldiers, whereby not
the ground reacts differently to a shot than a helmet on
all of them were aware of the imperfect fitting. Although
someone’s head. Besides, every dent greater than 0.5
the method used 15 years before involving the 3D Nu-
inch or every smallest sign of penetration would rather
merical Surface Descriptor seemed right, at that time,
mean severe injury or death.
in order to recalculate the dimensions of helmets to the X-Large size, math and regression equations were
Then, FS 34087 color rubber edge was sealed onto
used. The helmet in XL size (8470-01-300-3819) was fi-
the shell. In case of many manufacturers, the color of
nally introduced on 14 May 1989 and the only contract
the adhesive changes to dark brown after years of use,
in the 1980s-1990s, DLA100-90-F-EC43 was signed
especially in the case of helmets produced by UNI-
no sooner than on 15 February 1990. Total of 12,000
COR. Next, the holes for the suspension were drilled.
XL helmets were produced.
Later, the shells were painted in FS 34087 color and the
Not all of the sizes were produced in all years. Siz-
last layer contained quartz sand or walnut shell pow-
es XS, S and L were produced throughout the 1980s.
der. The PII (Procurement Instrument Identifier) stamp
Then, the production stopped. In the case of the XS
was affixed inside the shell. The next stage was the
size, the last contract was DLA100-89-C-4035 (19
attachment of the suspension in the shell by bolts and
April 1989), the S size: DLA100-88-C-4397 (19 April
A-shaped nuts as well as of the chinstrap. Finally, the
1989), while the L size: DLA100-90-F-EC43 (15 Febru-
equipment
der the straps of the suspension, manufactured would
ary 1990). The only contracts signed in the 1990s re-
The suspension was modified on 11 March 1997.
garded the Medium size, but only two such contracts
The band connected with the sweatband was extend-
were awarded: SPO100-94-F-EF64 and SPO100-95-
ed and facilitated with a Velcro for the attachment of a
F-EA28 awarded in 1994 and 1997.
new sweatband. At the same time, the webbing was
Production of new helmet shells was resumed no
softer, in a weave that we know, for example, from
sooner than after execution of the contracts in 3Q2000
the reinforcements in Jungle Boots. The color was
– and the contracts launched in 2001. New helmets
changed to CG483. New NSNs were assigned to the
had suspension that had been introduced several years
suspensions:
before as spare parts/modernization. Although the hel-
Ä XS: 8470-01-442-2969
mets were, theoretically, still produced in FS 34087,
Ä S: 8470-01-442-2990
the colors resembled at that time CARC Green 393 or
Ä M: 8470-01-442-2995
CG483. Due to the changed suspension, the helmets
Ä L: 8470-01-442-3001
included a new manual and a upgrade sweatband. The
Ä XL: 8470-01-442-3021
production of XS helmets ceased with the contract
The first contract, SPO100-98-D-EC17, was signed
SPO100-03-D-EC69 (5 November 2004). Production
on 6 January 1998. Such suspension were used no
of other sizes (S, M, L, and XL) ended with orders being
sooner than in helmets produced since 2001 or as re-
a part of the contract SPM1C1-07-D-0029 (delivered
placement. Production of CG483 suspension ended
31 January or 10 May 2007, depending on sizes).
with the contract SPO100-01-D-EC56 (17 November
Helmets were non-disposable equipment, so there
2004).
was no need for their continuous production. Helmets
At the same time as introduction of ACUs and
returned by soldiers were disassembled, cleaned,
ACHs, it was impossible to issue the whole army with
given new rubber edge cover, new suspension, and
the new gear. That is why a set of parts fit for the new
re-painted. After such restoration, the helmets were
camouflage was designed for PASGT helmets. Sus-
returned to service. There was nothing surprising in
pension in Foliage Green 504 were standardized on 26
soldiers serving in the 2000s who had helmets from
April 2005. NSNs were the following:
1980s, but with new suspension or accessories. Ac-
Ä XS: 8470-01-529-6574
cording to the specification, helmets had no useful life
Ä S: 8470-01-529-6577
expiration date.
Ä M: 8470-01-529-6578 Ä L: 8470-01-529-6602
Suspension and bolts
Ä XL: 8470-01-529-6609 Only one contract was issued, SPO100-06-D-4110,
The suspension was produced in form of a basket made from a 1” nylon webbing, just like in the sample
as a part of which several orders were made between 20 March and 22 November 2006.
versions. The depth of the basket was adjusted with a
The suspension was fixed to the helmet shell with
Velcro that drew the string at its top. The suspension
six bolts and A-shaped nuts. Pads were made of an
was produced in five sizes and they could not be used
alloy of chemically blackened and galvanized steel.
interchangeably with other. The NSNs of suspension
Unfortunately, they are very susceptible to corrosion.
from XS to L are: from 8470-01-092-7516 to 8470-01-
When buying a helmet, it is a good idea to buy a spare set.
092-7519 (to be honest, I did not find the number for the XL). All of them were produced from a OD7 ban, so
Sweatband
if you buy such a suspension as a spare part, there is no chance of buying an incorrect color version, as far
The early version of the PASGT sweatband was pro-
as it is fully made from a 1” webbing. The last contract
duced from OD7 1” nylon band with a soft pile fastener
for suspension webbings of the original type, DLA100-
and covered with leather on the side that had contact
90-F-EB45, was signed on 12 January 1991.
with the user’s head. The sweatband was attached with six spring steel clasps, the fastening and releasing of which required great precision and a fine pocket knife. www.fragoutmag.com
between the adjustment clasps were cotton. In the
XS (8470-01-092-8492) and SML (8470-01-092-8493).
case of later helmets, the construction of the cup was
The first three initially designed sizes (S/M/L) required
changed to a nylon band lined with cotton only in the
only one size of sweatbands. The XS size designed at
sections that had contact with the chin (the earliest con-
the end of the 1970 would also include a small-sized
tracts dated 1986, production 1987-88). In the 1990s,
sweatband. After introduction of the XL helmet, a new
the color of band was changed from OD7 to CG483. It
longer sweatband was standardized as well (8470-01-
is however very difficult to determine the year in which
303-8946).
the specification changed. Bearing in mind the fact that
SML and XL sweatbands in that form were pro-
only Medium helmets were produced in the 1990s, it
duced until the contract SPO100-96-D-EE59 dated 24
can be assumed that the majority of PASGT helmets of
June 1996, while XS sweatbands – until the contract
the 1980s and the 1990s had chinstraps with OD7 ny-
SPO100-04-F-EF77 dated 15 September 1994.
lon parts, while CG483 chinstraps appeared no sooner
Due to the replacement of the suspension with a
than in the PASGT produced in the 2000s, in a version
wider one, a wider sweatband was also introduced and
with modernized suspension or as replacements (but
it solved the problem of the inconvenient clasps. They
also no sooner than at the end of the 1990s). Green
were replaced with Velcro to be attached on the Vel-
chinstraps were produced under SPO100-05-D-4050
cro straps of the webbing. The color of the nylon was
(30 November 2005).
changed to CG483. New sweatbands were standardized on 5 March 1997 under the following NSNs:
On 7 October 2004, the chinstrap was standardized under NSN 8415-01-524-5884 but in the Foliage
XS – 8470-01-442-1434
Green 504. The production of those started with the
SML – 8470-01-442-1429
SPO100-05-D-4050 (1 July 2005) and ended with the
XL – 8470-01-442-1430.
SPM1C1-13-F-B001. As one may have noticed, two
The production of new sweatbands started on 1
separate orders were executed in 2005 as a part of
April 1998 (SPO100-98-D-EB84). Production of XS
single contract for both the older straps in CG483, as
and XL sizes ended with the SPO100-02-D-EA59 (17
well as the newer FG504.
December 2005). The SML size in CG483 was still produced in 2008 under SPM1C1-06-D-F011.
What is important, today, when someone tries to buy such accessories like elements of the suspension
On 20 January 2005, new sweatbands were intro-
of a PASGT helmet, it is very difficult to tell from the
duced, in Foliage Green 504. They received new NSNs:
pictures whether the color if FG504, CG483, or OD7.
XS – 8470-01-526-8462
The sellers very often do not distinguish those colors,
SML – 8470-01-526-8463
while some variants and shades are so unclear that
XL – 8470-01-526-8464
cannot be 100% sure whether the element is in its old-
New sweatbands were produced under SPO100-
er or newer version (since there also have been very
02-D-EA59 (10 January 2005) and until SPM1C1-14F-B001 (3 October 2013). However, not all of the sizes were manufactured throughout the whole period.
Chinstrap
gray shades of elements in CG483).
Parachutist accessories The PASGT helmet was certified for parachute use. All one had to do was only to attach three elements
The chinstrap (NSN 8470-01-092-7534) initially
– parachutist pad, retention strap, and a longer rear
consisted of a cotton chin cup and nylon band that at-
tightening bolt. The foam secured the user’s occiput
tached the strap to the helmet shell. One of the bands
from the back part of the helmet shell. During the jump,
was divided into two sections fastened with a Pull The
the tightly fastened retention strap stabilized the hel-
Dot fastener. OD7 webbing were used. The strap had
met, so that the front of the helmet would not crash the
two clasps for length adjustment on both sides of the
user’s nose.
chin cup. In the case of the earliest versions of chin-
The parachutist pad NSN 8470-01-092-8494, stan-
straps mounted on pre-1987 helmets, the whole cup
dardized on 5 April 1980, was made of Ensolite closed-
equipment
Sweatbands were initially produced in two sizes:
Chinstrap variants. From the bottom: early chinstrap with cotton chin cup and OG106 nylon webbing, chinstrap with cotton chin cup sewn to nylon strap (still OG106/OD7), CG483 chinstrap, FG504 chinstrap.
Band, Helmet, Camouflage in different variants. From the bottom: first two bands are from two different runs made somewhere in 1980s. Neoprene rubber with OD7 color cotton outer. Third is late 1980s OD7 band with nylon outer – the CL-1 was added to description of the item. The top one is CG483, latest band, which should not be used with helmets made in 1980s or 1990s as it appeared later.
1997-modified wider suspension and Velcro mounted sweatband. Below there is metal buckle for older sweatband, which was was used to attach them to early suspension. These tiny metal parts were real pain in use and GIs hated them.
www.fragoutmag.com
ed all the accidents connected with head injuries. In
with elastic paint. The pad had a trapezoidal shape,
277 cases, such injuries usually resulted in dismissal
wider at the bottom, with rounded corners. The pad
of the soldiers for more than one day, while four acci-
was 0.5-inch thick. Initially, pads wer OD with addition
dents were fatal. What was even more troubling for the
of yellow pigment, which was changed to FS 34094
researchers, 89.4% of the incidents ended with loss of
at the end of the 1980s. The pad was available in two
consciousness and brain injuries.
versions. Depending on the year, it fits either into older helmets with a narrower sweatband or into newer mod-
The proposed solution involved lining the whole
els that had a wider sweatband. The difference is in the
interior of the helmet with “Volara A� foam pads with
size of the hole for the drawstring of the sweatband.
thickness of ~6 mm. Testing involved using the same
The specification probably changed with the SPO100-
pads several times as well as replacing them with new
98-F-EA69 (13 November 1997). Pads were produced
ones after each attempt, in order to assess whether
until SPM100-05-M-4194 (21 April 2005).
the pads should be considered as single-use accesso-
The retention strap (NSN 8470-01-092-7524) was
ries. A hemisphere with accelerometers was inserted
made from a 27-inch nylon webbing – the same as in
into the helmet and then the helmet was dropped from
the elements fastening the chinstrap to the shell. Both
a height of 30 inches at various angles. Simultaneous
ends of the drawstring had Velcro straps. There was a
tests were conducted for helmets without the pads,
loop in the middle of the strap and the strap was fas-
for comparison purposes. It appeared that the highest
tened on the rear bolt of the suspension, between the
forces were noted in the rear part of the helmet, de-
suspension and the the helmet shell. The user had to
spite the fact that there was already one pad placed
fasten the strap around the side parts of the chinstrap,
in helmets for parachute jumps. Subsequent measure-
under the length adjustment clasps, so that the helmet
ments were, respectively, for the front, sides, and top
would be more stable during jumps. The set with a
of the helmet. After a series of tests, it was determined
new strap included an additional, slightly smaller bolt. I
that the new par was able to minimize the transmis-
own a new retention strap from 1993 that is still in OD7.
sion of forces by 23.8%, but it efficiency would drop
In the second half of the 1990s, probably since the
to 13.3% after five impacts. It was impossible to as-
SPO100-96-F-EED1 (1 April 1996), color of the straps
sess how such additional protection would influence
was changed to CG483. The production ended after
the number of injuries. The researchers also did not
the contract SPO100-01-D-EC34 (6 February 2002).
achieve the target protection of 50%, yet the pad was
Parachutist impact liner
introduced for use. The PASGT Helmet Foam Impact Liner, NSN 846501-420-4920 was produced only for the contract
After the PASGT helmet was introduced for large
SPO100-97-F-EC19 performed in the first half of 1997
scale use for airborne ise, it appeared that within the
(about 130,000 each). It was a foam pad consisting of
period from 1985 to 1990 the number of injuries during
a central strap and two V-shaped sides.
jumps doubled in comparison to previous periods, when M1s were in use. The problem resulted from the
Comfort Pad
pretty good fitting of the helmet to the head and the initially assumed low 0.5-inch standoff. Upon impact,
One of the general problems of the PASGT helmets
the gap was sometimes too small although a well-fitted
was the low comfort of the suspension in long-term
and fastened helmet should have not caused such is-
use. M1 has a webbing made from comfortable and
sues. Commanding officers of the 18th Airborne Corps
soft cotton straps (that solution was based on football
and the Army Infantry School announced the demand
helmets). The nylon band used in PASGT was definite-
for a new solution that would allow decrease the trans-
ly less comfortable and after several hours the helmet
mission of forces on the head upon impact by 50%
would become an annoying burden. On 23 September
without replacing the helmets with a new model. The
1992, a small foam disc was standardized. It could be
U.S. Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory inspect-
attached inside the helmet to the straps of the sus-
equipment
cell foam and the outer surface of which was covered
Covers The PASGT helmets could come with 5 types of covers, most of which were in three sizes (X/S; M/L, and XL). There were also at least two known experimental models. The first covers had a bit complex construction which consisted of a large number of elements sewn together every several centimeters as if balloon panels. It was to ensure the high-quality fitting to the shape of the helmet. For testing, the researchers used covers in ERDL camoufalge. However, the batch production used their simplified versions. Their construction consisted of a central strap, two sides, and a bottom part of the cover, which fastened the cover to the edge on the helmet shell. The bottom part of the cover included holes for the chinstrap and additional holes for the parachuting strap in the rear. On the sides, the covers had holes for natural comouflage (e.g. branches, plants, etc.). Covers were stabilized on the suspension by the use of six bands with Velcro. Covers with Woodland camouflage were made of the same 50/50 NYCO Twill material as BDU Type. Covers were standardized on 2 April 1980 and asParachutist „Impact, Liner” was designed to decrease number of head injuries during the combat jumps. Despite the fact it didn’t meet expectations, finally it was issued to offer any protection.
signed the following NSNs: 8415-01-092-7514 (XS/S) and 8415-01-092-7515 (M/L). XL covers were assigned NSN 8415-01-303-8945 and standardized at a later date – on 7 July 1989 (the first contract was concluded in 1988).
pension and, as a result, make it more comfortable.
All Woodland covers included slits. The earliest
Originally, the comfort pads had one black side and
versions from the first half of the 1980s had differ-
were perforated for ventilation purposes. They were
ently sewn-in attachment bands (no X stitching) and
given the NSN 8470-01-364-7074. They were a part of
a stamp inside with an arrow indicating the front of
five contracts and the first, DLA100-93-F-ED47, was
the cover. The covers manufactured until the end of
the sole contract in the 1990s. The production was
1997 had slightly shorter straps adjusted to the older
resumed during the GWOT and four more contracts
version of the suspension. Later covers (starting from
were awarded from 2002 to 2005. The last of them was
contracts in 1996) included extended straps so that it
SPO100-05-M-4360 (10 September 2005).
was possible to attach the cover on helmets with wider
In used helmets, one can also find a set of other
suspension. Earlier covers were produced until 1991
solutions that serve the same purpose. They include
also had OD7 nylon webbing, while the later versions
various foams or sponges cut into a round shape
were in CG483. The last contract for Woodland covers,
and attached to the suspension – however, those are
SPO100-06-D-4120, was signed on 28 April 2006, but
non-issue solutions, bought at PXs or made by the sol-
the last procurement for the XL size was made on 4
diers.
March 2004 (SPO100-01-D-EF12). The 6-color desert cover was standardized on 11 October 1980 under NSN 8415-01-103-1349 (XS/S) and 8415-01-103-1350 (M/L). They were also made of NYCO Twill, but during the first Gulf War there was a www.fragoutmag.com
produced until the contract SPO100-06-M-4043 (3 De-
1991 did not have slits – it was budget/war time ver-
cember 2005).
sion. I also was not able to find information whether
In 1998, as a part of a trial program of USMC, there
they were produced in the XL size (XL helmets were
were also covers in experimental Urban T-pattern
a still something new at that time and they were pro-
camo. Covers were produced for an external contract
duced on a small scale). What is interesting, some of
of Natick Labs (DAAN02-98-P-8959). The NSN for M/L
the covers manufactured just after the war did not have
cover is 8415-00-NSH-0423. Nowadays, those covers
slits, while those supplied during operations could be
are hardly available and may cost even more than $500
produced with slits. As always, it resulted from late
on Ebay.
decisions. When someone is looking for a good cover
Due to the adoption of ACU uniforms on 7 Octo-
from the period of the 1st Gulf War, he or she should
ber 2004, PASGT helmets received covers in UCP The
either seek for a cover from the 1980s or one the con-
NSNs were the following: 8415-01-524-5957 (XS/S),
tract of which could be awarded and delivered to the
8415-01-524-6027 (M/L), and 8415-01-524-6028 (XL).
area of operations. A high number of contracts for
Covers were produced under two contracts: SPO100-
6-color desert equipment was signed in January 1991.
06-D-4119 and SPO100-06-D-4120. All the purchases
The last contract for M/L covers, DLA100-93-C-4095,
being a part of those contracts were submitted be-
was awarded on 1 April 1993, while the production of
tween 22 June 2006 and 25 April 2007.
XS-sized covers ceased with the contract DLA100-91F-EA91 (7 May 1991).
Helmet band
The 3-color desert cover was standardized on 16 October 1990 in all three sizes under the following
The PASGT helmets in the 1980s-1990s used only
NSNs: 8415-01-327-4824 (XS/S), 8415-01-327-4825
one type of elastic bands – the so-called cat eyes.
(M/L), and 8415-01-327-4826 (XL). The first contract
Such bands were made of an OD7 elastic band under
was signed in February 1991 and the covers were
NSN 8415-01-110-9981, which was standardized on
produced continuously in all sizes until the contract
9 April 1981. In the 1990s, the color was changed at
SPO100-04-D-4028 (9 December 2003). Depending
a certain stage from OD7 to CG483, but such bands
on the contract, there were standard covers – 50/50
were supplied to soldiers no sooner than at the end
NYCO Twill with slits, without slits, as well as covers
of the 1990s. After 1990, bands could also be made
made of 50/50 NYCO rip-stop fabric. The use of other
from a neoprene band in a polyester wrap. In 1990,
materials or removal of the slits mainly depended on
the specification was expanded with bands in Tan
the demands in a particular period. The attachmement
color, but the new variant of bands did not receive
bands in newer covers produced since 1988 were
an NSN and they were not introduced to production.
slightly longer.
Bands from the 1980s and the 1990s are differentiat-
For arctic and winter operations, white covers were
ed by description. The latter, due do to the expanded
developed and standardized on 15 December 1982
specification, had also CL-1 or CLASS 1 added to the
under NSN 8415-01-144-1860 (XS/S) and 8415-01-
description BAND, HELMET, CAMOUFLAGE US. Ol-
144-1861 (M/L). The covers were made of white ox-
ive Drab helmet bands were produced under SPO100-
ford fabric (80% cotton and 20% nylon). It was the
05-D-4350 (1 September 2005). Throughout the whole
same material that the one used for Arctic parkas,
period of use, soldiers also applied bands purchased
M65 parkas, and BDU hats. The material was highly
at PXs. The range of colors of the original bands was
hydrophobic, which made the cover waterproof. Cov-
also quite significant, so one would find olive, green,
ers had camouflage slits. In such a form, they were
brownish, or grayish, depending on the batch.
manufactured only in several contracts by 1990. After
Although the band in Sand color intended for hel-
that, the production was ceased. On 13 February 2002,
mets with desert covers was already described in the
the covers were standardized once again in three sizes
1990 specification, it was standardized no sooner than
under NSNs 8415-01-494-4591 (XS/S), 8415-01-494-
on 22 March 2002 under NSN 8415-01-495-6714. The
4605 (M/L), and 8415-01-494-4607 (XL) and they were
first contract, SPO100-01-D-EC85, was signed on 1
equipment
demand for a significant quantity. Some covers from
PASGT helmet cover. Left to right: Woodland, 6-Color Daytime Desert, arctic white, and 3-Color Daytime Desert.
August 2002 and the production ended with the con-
Other accessories
tract SPO100-05-M4137 of 19 February 2005. 1 February 2005 is the date of standardization of
PASGT helmets could also be used a riot face mask
Foliage Green 504 bands, which are still in production
or visor (NSN 4240-01-18206406) standardized on 26
and used with ACH helmets. The most current contract
June 1984. It was compatible both with M1 and PASGT
is SPE1C1-15-D-B001 (14 August 2017).
helmets and produced until 2012. The helmets were also used with assembly systems for various night vision devices. However, those always were the element
Chemical protective cover
of the night vision device kit itself rather than an element of the PASGT.
Cover, Helmet, Chemical Protective NSN 841501-111-9028, was standardized on 23 April 1981. It is
SERVICE
made of nylon covered with OD177 butyl rubberand there it is one size fits all. The same material is used
The first PASGT helmets were given to the US Army
in the production of hoods for NBC masks. The cover
Rapid Deployment Forces and the USMC. New hel-
has an elastic drawstring sewn-in around its edge. It is
mets were used for the first time during the invasion of
put on the helmet in the event of a threat of WMD. The
Grenada in 1983. They were issued on a large scale no
covers have been produced in an unchanged form and
sooner than in 1985 and in the case of most units the
used with newer type of helmets. The last concluded
replacement process ended in 1989. In spite of that,
contract is SPE1C1-16-D-N004 of 29 August 2017,
in 1991 in the Persian Gulf, a part of the rear units,
with the expected delivery date on 30 April 2018.
especially among USAF, were still issued with old M1s, which were replaced in country. Since 1998, new suspension had been available as spare parts, because helmets had some problems with stability. The helmet would often slide down on the soldier’s eyes. There www.fragoutmag.com
many times. Some elements, such as the impact liner, 1990s also experienced a major gap in production of all sizes except for the Medium, which resulted from a large stock. I hope that the above description will make it easier for you to determine the age of those helmets and their parts or add one of such helmets to expand your collection.
End note from editor: It is a common mistake,
multiplied in different sources, about the popu-
lar nickname of the helmet. Sometimes, mostly in Europe and some medias, the PASGT helmets are called “Fritz”. When you will ask US soldiers
about Fritz helmet, most probably they won’t Early cover on the left, late (post 1997) on the right. New covers were issued together with upgraded suspensions systems as the new suspension required longer attachment bands.
were attempts to remove that disadvantage by using a wider sweatband, but the service of the two-point chinstrap in a modern army was coming to an end. The helmet was also incompatible with the new IBA (Interceptor Body Armor). In 2002, US Army adopted the ACH (Advanced Combat Helmet). In 2004, the USMC started the process of replacing the PASGT with LWH (Lightweight Helmet) which had a similar shape, but provided better protection with less weight. LWH also received a brand-new suspension. Nevertheless, the PASGT helmet had been used still long after 2010. It was still used by the army for Basic Training. Currently, PASGT helmets are still used by the USAF and some units of the US Navy. The helmets that we can find nowadays for sale usually have been through a long service and have a long history. They have had no specific service time and one helmet has been usually used by many soldiers. There was nothing strange in finding a helmet produced in the 1980s during the OIF in 2003. The suspension, sweatbands, chinstraps, not even mentioning the covers and elastic drawstrings have been changed
know what you’re talking about. PASGT helmets
was commonly called K-pot (Steel Pot was M1) or just Kevlar, but never Fritz.
equipment
were even considered as single-use accessories. The