IS S U E 08
038
038
050 050
ANOREXIC AR-10 We Send Armalite’s Super SASS to Fat Camp
1,000 YARDS. NO PROBLEM. This Compact Bolt-Action Folder Is Ergonomic, Accurate, and Adaptable
HK Hits the Mark With This Love Child of a USP and P2000
070
FNH Revives a Classic With a Modern Twist
104
Think Owning a Gun Is Enough Protection? Think Again. Your Home Is Your Castle, so Harden it With These Additional Common-Sense Security Measures.
060 070
112
104
ZERO DARK 45
060
RACK AND ROLL
SAFE HOUSE
LIKE A HAIRY HOLLOWPOINT Can a Specially Trained Dog Provide More Reliable Security Than an Alarm System and Faster Defense Than a Firearm?
120
HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT A Former Delta Operator Reveals the Key Concepts to Covert Carrying and Why Caliber Can’t Compensate for Lack of Skill
120
Mom Always Said, “You’ll Put Your Eye Out With That!” Prove Her Wrong. Wear Shooting Glasses.
136
Designed by a U.S. Marine Combat Vet, Rogue Precision’s R-Clamp Rifle Rest Provides Stability and Innovation
112 136
ARMORED EYES
128
138
ROGUE TO THE CORPS
BOURBON: AN AMERICAN MAN’S DRINK Shoot, Then Drink. In That Order.
142
128
142
AIN’T NO CHILD’S PLAY Think of Airguns as Toys? You Thought Wrong. Some Airguns are Powerful Enough to Take Down Big Game, Can Help Maintain Your Shooting Skills, and Can Even Serve as Invaluable Tools When SHTF.
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REDFIELD.COM NEW » BATTLEZONE™ 3-9x42mm
© 2013 Redfield
IS S U E 08
DEPARTMENTS 008
ON THE COVER
010
Editor’s Letter
014
New Gear
016
Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum
024
Survivor Truck
034
Paracord-Wrapped Knives
SHTF
150
Nature’s Salad Bar
152
WANNA TRADE PATCHES?
162
GOING HOT
DOWN RANGE
INCOMING
VISIT
TRANSPORT
UNUSUAL SUSPECTS
ZEROED IN
082
Paul Buffoni
094
1911 Restoration
DIY
MISFIRES In Issue #7, we incorrectly listed the URLs for the March 1-10x24 and March 1-8x24 scopes on Pages 77 and 79. The correct URL is www.kelbly.com. Also, we incorrectly listed the name and price for the Kitanica pants on Page 122. The correct name and price are All-Season Pants for $185. We apologize for any inconvenience this might have caused.
FIREARM SAFETY IS TOP PRIORITY
RECOIL reminds you to be safe and always obey firearms safety rules: 1. Treat every gun as if it were loaded. 2. Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. 3. Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire. 4. Be aware of your target's foreground and background. All contents in RECOIL Magazine are professionally photographed in a closed studio or range. Do not attempt to recreate any photographs depicted in this magazine.
PRODUCT DISCLAIMER
Prices and details for items featured in RECOIL are set by the manufacturers and retailers, and are subject to change without notice. Throughout this issue you will see certain images are labeled as being 1:1 Actual Size. This designation is for the print edition of this issue. Because of the various screen sizes on different tablets and computers, we cannot always provide actual life size images in digital versions. We apologize if this causes any confusion and thank you for your understanding.
WE ONLY MAKE GUNS WE WANT TO SHOOT
AND WE’RE DAMN NEAR IMPOSSIBLE TO PLEASE.
Advancing the 1911 by hand in North Carolina. With breakthroughs like our premium application of an Ionbond® finish, oversized extractor and double-stack, high-capacity capability, PARA craftsmen are improving John Browning’s design like no one else on earth. Our pistols are built by hand, with precision, for a lifetime of hard use.
©2013 RA BRANDS, LLC.
COVER PHOTO BY HENRY Z. DE KUYPER
ON THE COVER
01 CHEST RIG
04 HANDGUN
06 SHIRT
BRAND: HSGI MODEL: Double Decker Value Combo MSRP: $195 URL: www.highspeedgearinc.com
BRAND: Glock MODEL: 20SF MSRP: $670 URL: us.glock.com
BRAND: REI MODEL: Endeavor MSRP: $80 URL: www.rei.com
02 BELT
WEAPON LIGHT
07 HARNESS
BRAND: HSGI MODEL: 1.5-Inch Cobra Belt MSRP: $63 URL: www.highspeedgearinc.com
BRAND: SureFire MODEL: X300 Ultra MSRP: $299 URL: www.surefire.com
BRAND: Black Diamond MODEL: Alpine Bod Harness MSRP: $40 URL: www.blackdiamondequipment.com
03 HOLSTER
05 PANTS
08 HELMET
BRAND: HSGI MODEL: Drop Holster for Tactical Lights/
BRAND: Vertx MODEL: Men’s Pant MSRP: $55 URL: www.wearvertx.com
BRAND: Crye Precision MODEL: AirFrame MSRP: $844 URL: www.cryeprecision.com
Lasers MSRP: $90 URL: www.highspeedgearinc.com
01
02
03
07 04
05
08
06
OFF CAMERA HELMET RAILS
BARREL
11 CARABINERS
12 GLOVES
14 FOOTWEAR
17 WATCH
BRAND: Crye Precision MODEL: AirFrame Rails MSRP: $43 URL: www.cryeprecision.com
BRAND: Proof Research MODEL: 22-inch Carbon Fiber MSRP: $1,040 URL: www.proofresearch.com
BRAND: Omega Pacific MODEL: Standard Locking D
BRAND: Line of Fire Tactical MODEL: Operator MSRP: $150 URL: www.loftactical.com
BRAND: LOWA MODEL: Zephyr GTX Mid MSRP: $195 URL: www.lowaboots.com
BRAND: Casio MODEL: SGW300HB-3AV MSRP: $65 URL: www.casio.com
Carabiner Bright MSRP: $10 URL: www.omegapac.com
09 RIFLE
FLASH HIDER
BRAND: Armalite MODEL: Super SASS MSRP: $3,100 URL: www.armalite.com
BRAND: Advanced Armament Corp. MODEL: Blackout 7.62 51T MSRP: $99 URL: www.advanced-armament.com
BRAND: Petzl MODEL: Spirit MSRP: $10 URL: www.petzl.com
OPTIC
10 SLING
BRAND: Leupold MODEL: Mark 4 ER/T 4.5-14x50mm
BRAND: TAB Gear MODEL: TAB 3-Way MSRP: $70 URL: www.tabgear.com
BRAND: Black Diamond MODEL: Light D Carabiner MSRP: $6 URL: www.blackdiamond
(30mm) M3 Front Focal MSRP: $2,000 URL: www.leupold.com
13 FIRST AID KIT
15 BELAY DEVICE
BRAND: Elite First Aid, Inc. MODEL: Military IFAK Kit MSRP: $69 URL: www.elite1staid.com
BRAND: DMM MODEL: Figure 8 MSRP: $16 URL: www.dmmclimbing.com
16 KNIFE BRAND: SOG MODEL: Aegis MSRP: $114 URL: www.sogknives.com
equipment.com
14
09
15 10
11
12
16
13
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BY IAIN HARRISON
Way back in the sands of time (well, in Issue 6 actually, but
is an expert in the field and his approach is to “avoid, evade,
it feels like a decade ago), I mentioned that we’d be putting
and defend” — in that order. In the event you need to employ
a lot more unique content online. It took a little longer than
the last part of that trifecta, he offers advice gained from
anticipated, but by early summer, we’ve made good on that
years of operational experience and challenges his students
promise. We’ll continue to publish interesting and valuable ar-
to be fast and accurate. (Go to page 120 for details.) There’s
ticles on RECOILweb.com that you won’t find anywhere else,
also a couple of precision rifles between these covers that
as well as offer additional material from our print stories that
take the same smarter approach to making 1,000-yard shots,
works well in that medium. Look for icons in this issue that
sending a smaller, high BC bullet at moderate velocity, from
denote extra online content, and please check it out.
rigs that don’t feel like boat anchors when you’re lugging them
In this edition, we take a close look at some aspects of home defense that perhaps don’t get the attention they
around. (See pages 38 and 50.) One aspect of being at the front of the pack is that others
deserve. (See “Safe House” on page 104 and “Like a Hairy
are always snapping at your heels. It’s been fun to see other
Hollowpoint” on page 112.) As gun guys, we have a natural
publications sit up and take note of what we’re doing and be
tendency to gravitate toward the firearm as the be all and
sincere in their flattery … if you know what I mean. More
end all of defensive solutions — if all you have is a hammer,
interesting has been the feedback we’ve had from you guys,
then every problem becomes a nail. The downside to that is
who are continually challenging us to produce the best and
that we may overlook other possibilities that could cost us
most honest magazine we can. Which is both an honor and a
less in the long run, both financially and mentally. Spending
pretty big responsibility. And a whole lot of fun.
a few extra bucks on lighting and landscaping isn’t anywhere nearly as sexy as the latest black rifle, but if you avoid having to confront a burglar because he didn’t have anywhere to lurk and your dog scared him off before he broke in, well you might have saved a bunch on lawyers’ fees and cleanup costs. We’re all about fighting smarter, rather than harder. When it comes to CCW choices, former Delta operator Mike Pannone
Proud to sponsor some of the best in the 3 Gun Nation Pro Series Freedom Munitions offers the highest quality new and re-manufactured ammunition. Produced in-house at our Idaho facility utilizing the best components. Our team of experienced customer service representatives are ready to assist you. www.freedommunitions.com | 202.746.3668
Editorial. Editor/ Iain Harrison Senior Editor/ Patrick Vuong Managing Editor/ John Schwartze
Advertising. Group Publisher/ Mark Han Associate Publisher/ Danny Chang Advertising Operations Coordinator/ Irene Gonzalez
Associate Editor/ John Jarasa Senior Photographer/ Henry Z. De Kuyper Contributing Editor/ Steven Kuo Contributors/ Wendy Cunningham, Jacob Herman, Mike Landers, Gordon Meehl, Ced Nocon, Jorge Nuñez, Mike Pannone, Ryan Price, Mike Searson, Jenni Sisk, Gordon D. Smith, Shinnosuke Tanaka, John Teator, Keith Wood Special Thanks/ Chen Lee
Art Direction and Design.
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IS SU E
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Subscriber Customer Services.
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This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that the information presented is from various sources from which there can be no warranty or responsibility by Source Interlink Media, LLC., or the publisher as to legality, completeness and accuracy. Any submissions or contributions from readers shall be subject to and governed by Source Interlink Media’s User Content Submission Terms and Conditions, which are posted at http://privacy.sourceinterlinkmedia. com/submissions.html. REPRINTS Contact Wright’s Media at 877.652.5295 (281.419.5725 outside the U.S. and Canada) to purchase quality custom reprints or e-prints of articles appearing in this publication.
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President/ Chris Argentieri EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS Editorial contributions are welcomed, but editors recommend that contributors query first. Contribution must be accompanied by return postage and we assume no responsibility for loss or damage thereto. Manuscripts must be typewritten on white paper, and all photographs must be accompanied by captions. Photo model releases required on all persons in photos. Recoil reserves the right to use material at its discretion, and we reserve the right to edit material to meet our requirements. Upon publication, payment will be made at our current rate, and that said payment will cover author’s and contributor’s rights of the contribution. Contributor’s act of mailing contribution shall constitute an express warranty that the material is original and no infringement on the rights of others. Mail contributions to: Recoil Magazine, 1733 Alton Parkway, Irvine, CA 92606. ADVERTISING INFORMATION Please call Recoil Advertising Department, (949) 705-3100. Related publications: Heavy Hitters, 4-Wheel & Off-Road, Four Wheeler, Jp, Truckin’, Diesel Power, 8-Lug, Mini Truckin’, Off-Road, 4Wheel Drive Magazine, Hot Rod, Car Craft, Muscle Mustangs & Fast Fords, Modified Mustangs & Fords, Vette, Chevy High Performance, Custom Classic Trucks, Rod & Custom, Popular Hot Rodding, GM High-Tech Performance, Lowrider, Lowrider Girls, Lowrider Arte, Classic Trucks, Dirt Rider, Sport Rider, ATV Rider, Hot Bike, Street Chopper, Super Street, Honda Tuning, Import Tuner, European Car, Modified, Motor Trend, Truck Trend, Automobile, Home Theater, Stereophile and other specialty magazines. Printed in the USA Copyright © 2013 by Source Interlink Magazines, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
General Manager/ David Algire Chief Creative Officer/ Alan Alpanian SVP, Finance/ Dan Bednar VP, Single Copy Sales and Marketing/ Chris Butler EVP, Enthusiast Automotive/ Doug Evans SVP, New Product Development/ Howard C. Lim Chief Content Officer/ Angus MacKenzie Chief Analytics Officer/ John Marriott SVP, Business Development/ Tyler Schulze EVP, Sales and Marketing/ Eric Schwab
Digital Media. Chief Technology Officer, Digital Media/ Raghu Bala SVP, Digital Marketing/ Craig Buccola SVP, Digital Product Development/ Todd Busby VP, Product Management/ Geoff DeFrance VP, Digital Advertising Products and Operations/ Jung Park
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THE NEW AR OPTICS FAMILY, BY BUSHNELL.® Equip yourself for excellence with a complete family of optical upgrades, built by the world leader in riflescope technology. From up-close with the lightning speed of our red dots, to midrange with lower magnification, to the farthest reaches with our 4.5–18x 40mm, featuring the new Drop Zone™ 223/5.56 BDC ballistic reticle. For home defense or honing skills, they’re the New Laws of Performance for AR-platform rifles.
JOHN SCOUTTEN Co-Host Shooting USA-TV
Learn more about the 10 laws at BUSHNELL.COM/LAWS
©2013
Running your shotgun dry during a stage is a cardinal sin for three-gunners. On duty, the consequences could be far worse. “Oh shit caddies” have adorned the fore-ends of many a shotgun over the years, typically elastic loops holding shells close to the chamber for a quick reload. MatchSaverZ recently introduced a clever caddy that holds a single shell, perfectly positioned to pull back and dump into the chamber. The shot shell is exposed and has enough tension when clamped in the MatchSaverZ to allow the user to manipulate it much more easily and smoothly than from an elastic loop. Available in black, red, white, and blue. BRAND:
MatchSaverZ
While there are other gun safes made specifically for trucks, they often eat up cargo space in the bed. The TruckBunker solves this problem by securing — and concealing— firearms under the backseat inside the cab. Made in the United States, the safe is 56 by 15¾ inches and 73⁄8 inches deep — plenty of room for long guns, handguns, or other valuables. Plus, they can be installed without drilling. Available in steel or aluminum for select Chevy, Ford, and Dodge models. BRAND:
Kitanica’s Mountain Shorts are aptly titled. Made of polycotton ripstop, with durable Dot fasteners and a heavy-duty YKK zipper, these futuristic-looking shorts are rugged and highly functional. There are 10 pockets, including a flashlight sleeve, a smartphone compartment, and deep side pockets. Available in black and khaki. BRAND:
Kitanica MODEL:
Mountain Shorts MSRP:
$149
Heracles Research Corp.
URL:
MODEL:
www.kitanica.net
TruckBunker
SKD Tactical has teamed up with Zero Tolerance Knives to produce this high-protein, low-carb version of the 0350. Made of S30V stainless steel with a Tungsten DLC coating, the 0360.SKD’s blade is 30-percent lighter than its predecessor — resulting in a faster assisted opening and lighter overall weight, without compromising strength or blade thickness. There’s also a carbide glass breaker on the butt-end for emergencies. Blades available in black or tiger stripe. BRAND:
Zero Tolerance Knives/SKD Tactical MODEL:
MSRP:
MSRP:
$179
URL:
URL:
www.bedgunsafe.com
www.skdtac.com
BRAND:
Kelty MODEL:
Ignite DriDown 20 MSRP:
$200 URL:
0360.SKD
$1,399 (steel), $1,549 (aluminum)
We love versatility, and the Kelty Ignite DriDown 20 degrees/EN 16 degrees fits the bill. This threeseason sleeping bag is lightweight for summer excursions while rated to 20 degrees Fahrenheit for spring and autumn treks. Thanks to a 30D nylon ripstop shell, a 50D polyester liner, and 600 fill-power DriDown insulation, this mummystyle bag will also stay dry 10 times longer than untreated down.
www.kelty.com
MODEL:
MatchSaverZ MSRP:
$25 URL:
www.matchsaverz.com
4
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If you’ve ever shot your AR in harsh conditions, you know the importance of keeping your lenses and sights clear of dirt, sand, mud, and rain. After all, you can’t shoot what you can’t see. The iO-001 Optic Cover ensures that your Aimpoint stays clean with integral lens caps, which can be operated one-handed and don’t get in the way of the sight picture. It’s made of thermoplastic polyurethane, which is resistant to oil, chemicals, abrasions, and UV exposure. The cover fits all Aimpoint Micro T-1, H-1, and R-1 optics and is available in black, flat dark earth, foliage green, and olive drab green. BRAND:
TangoDown
New ammo that’s actually available? Barnes Bullets can’t promise for how long, but it promises that by the time you read this, its latest TAC-XPD ammo should have hit store shelves. Created for home and personal defense, this line of ammo features Barnes’ venerable TAC-XP bullet with an all-copper construction and a large, deep hollowpoint cavity. Available in .380, 9mm +P, .40, and .45 +P.
Sometimes simplicity is best. The PocketMonkey is really nothing more than a thin stainless steel frame, yet it is a funky little multitool with 12 functions. Among its many features are a flathead screwdriver, bottle opener, and phone kickstand. It won’t replace your Leatherman or toolbox, but you can toss it in your range bag or keep it in your wallet for lightduty use.
BRAND:
Zootility Tools
BRAND: MODEL:
Barnes Bullets
PocketMonkey
MODEL:
MSRP:
TAC-XPD
When you’re running a rifle with optics, every little part starts to add weight. Warne Scope Mounts recently released the SKEL Mount to help lighten the load. Made of a skeletonized 6061 aluminum body and rings, it shaves 30 percent off the weight of Warne’s standard RAMP mount without sacrificing performance or structural integrity. Plus, the cantilever forward design provides additional eye relief. Available in 1-inch, 30mm, and 34mm tube sizes and in blue, dark earth, matte black, and red finishes.
MSRP:
$14
$28 (.380), $30 (9mm), $33 (.40), $34 (.45)
URL:
Warne Scope Mounts
www.zootilitytools.com
MODEL:
BRAND:
SKEL Mount
URL:
MSRP:
www.barnesbullets.com
$130
MODEL:
URL:
iO-001 Optic Cover
www.warnescopemounts.com
MSRP:
Imagine you’re a pilot who’s been shot out of the sky. If you’re lucky enough to survive the attack and subsequent crash, the true test will be surviving in hostile territory until help arrives. Now you’ll understand why pilots are also excellent survivalists. The U.S. Air Force Pocket Survival Handbook is a comprehensive guide that covers everything from starting a fire and building a shelter to animal tracking and concealment techniques. This paperback provides insights for everyone, whether they’re an occasional camper or a hardcore prepper. BRAND:
Skyhorse Publishing MODEL:
The U.S. Air Force Pocket Survival Handbook: The Portable and Essential Guide to Staying Alive MSRP:
$13
$29
URL:
URL:
www.skyhorsepublishing.com
www.tangodown.com
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016
WITH A FIREARMS COLLECTION, AN AEROSPACE EXHIBIT, AND THE ORIGINAL SPRUCE GOOSE, THE EVERGREEN AVIATION & SPACE MUSEUM PRESERVES OUR AERONAUTIC HISTORY, WHILE HONORING OUR VETERANS BY WENDY CUNNINGHAM PHOTOGRAPHY BY WENDY CUNNINGHAM
Throughout history there have been
aviation and space history, Evergreen is
a handful of men and women who
home to more than 150 historic aircraft
have refused to be constrained by the
and exhibits. Get up close and personal
pull of gravity. What often begins as
with the SR-71 Blackbird, explore the
a child pondering how birds can soar
Titan II Missile from inside her silo, and
high above the treetops develops into a
get a firsthand glimpse from the interior
pioneer flying through the clouds, then
of a fully restored B-17 Flying Fortress.
space. Someone once said, “To most
The star of the show, however, is un-
people, the sky is the limit. To those
doubtedly Howard Hughes’ aviation icon,
who love aviation, the sky is home.”
the Spruce Goose.
Thanks to the vision of the late Captain Michael King Smith and his father, Delford Smith, the Evergreen Aviation &
WORLD’S BIGGEST PLANE Designated H-4 by Hughes (not
Space Museum brings the beasts that
only did he despise the nickname
fill the sky back down to solid ground.
Spruce Goose, but the Flying Boat was
Tucked comfortably in the middle
constructed of mostly birch), it’s the
of Pacific Northwest wine country, the
largest airplane ever built — yet it flew
Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum and
only once. What she lacked in airtime,
Captain Michael King Smith Educational
she made up for in pure ingenuity.
Institute are just over 3 miles southeast
Hughes’ expertise was highly sought
of McMinnville, Oregon. An all-ages
after during World War II, and all the
experience with a mission to inspire and
while his “Wooden Wonder” remained
educate, as well as promote and preserve
flight-ready, but out of the public eye.
Serving as the centerpiece of the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, the Spruce Goose is the largest airplane ever built.
COURTESY OF EVERGREEN AVIATION & SPACE MUSEUM
COURTESY OF EVERGREEN AVIATION & SPACE MUSEUM
After Hughes’ death in 1976, she
paratrooper’s descent into Europe,
was set to be dismantled, a relic of
while the avid hunter can appreciate
aviation history, but it seemed that
the father-and-son hunting scene com-
just wasn’t how her story was to end.
plete with pheasant and dog. Further-
She spent several years on display in
more, every major United States battle
Long Beach, California, and in 1992
rifle is accounted for. Be it the stalwart
the Smiths saw to it that the Spruce
M1 Garand, the persistent M14, or the
Goose was given a proper and perma-
short-barreled Colt Commando carbine
nent home. It took nearly 10 years to
(foreshadowing today’s select-fire M4)
disassemble, move, and reassemble,
— Evergreen has it covered.
but it was well worth the wait, as the
Equally represented are pistols and
Spruce Goose and her impressive 320-
machine guns. The hefty semi-auto-
foot wingspan is now the centerpiece
matic Desert Eagle shines brightly in
of Evergreen’s Museum.
comparison to the battle-worn Webley Mark VI. But don’t let the Webley’s
FIREARMS ON DISPLAY
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Also impressive, but easily missed is
REC O ILW E B .C O M
018
rough exterior fool you. The first Webley was introduced to the service
the Captain Michael King Smith Fire-
of the Crown in 1887 and the Mark VI
arms Collection, situated on the mez-
was perhaps the most refined and reli-
zanine overlooking the Spruce Goose.
able of the breed. Equally as impres-
A relatively new exhibit at only 4 years
sive and perhaps even more intriguing
young, Evergreen collaborated closely
is the Lewis Gun. Manufactured by
with the NRA’s National Firearms Museum in Fairfax, Virginia, to guarantee
2
the utmost in historical accuracy and breadth. The collection is a thorough depiction of the role firearms played in every era of American history. With 18 cases and seven to-scale dioramas,
1 Reminiscent of Operation Neptune and 1 Boston, the assault phase of the Allied invasion into northwest Europe, this 82nd Airborne paratrooper descends under the wing of the Spruce Goose.
Did you know there are more shooters than golfers in America? One of seven large scale dioramas, this father-and-son hunting scene is sure to please. 2
there is something for everyone. The history buff can reflect upon Roosevelt’s Rough Riders’ raid at San Juan Hill, or perhaps a World War II
3 The Lewis Gun — accompanied by the Webley Mark VI and the Long Lee bolt-action rifle — exemplifies a successful WWI-era design as compared to France’s Chauchat machinegun, considered the worst machinegun ever.
the Savage Arms Company, this light machinegun is easily identifiable by its top-mounted drum-pan magazine and although designed in the good old USA, the Lewis Gun saw service in Belgium and the United Kingdom before being adopted by the U.S. Navy and Marines. Appropriately enough, the Lewis Gun also has the distinction of being the first machinegun ever fired from an aircraft; what soon became a tactical necessity began in June of 1912 on a Wright Model B Flyer.
VOLUNTEER VETERANS If the wife and kids have seen enough heavy metal for the day, do not fear. While you catch one of several IMAX movies at the Evergreen Theater, let the missus meander through the Evergreen Farm Store for some wine tasting and gourmet treats. If a larger hunger needs satisfying, try the Liberty Belle or Cosmo Café. Let the kids burn a hole in your pocket in one of two substantial gift shops before wearing them out at the Wings & Waves
3
Waterpark.
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less volunteers, many of them veterans, each adding to the mystique of the museum, and if given the opportunity, more than happy to share their personal accounts of the evolution of aviation in their lifetime, some spanning nearly a century. “I consider our volunteers to be the ‘Heart and Soul’ of the museum,” says Executive Director Larry Wood. “Air museums are usually artifact based so the things on display
COURTESY OF EVERGREEN AVIATION & SPACE MUSEUM
Not to be overlooked are the count-
1 The SR-71 Blackbird (seen in foreground).
2 Since its grand opening in June 2008, the Evergreen Space Museum has steadily increased the number of exhibits and artifacts it contains. The campus is now home to more than 150 historic aviation and space-related aircraft and exhibits.
are ‘just things.’ Our volunteers make the artifacts come alive by telling their stories of what the airplanes really mean. Some of them have experienced the aircraft — those stories give another silver airplane a real-life meaning in the context of those who operated,
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become living through those stories.
REC O ILW E B .C O M
020
That’s why I come to work every day.’”
1 2
COURTESY OF EVERGREEN AVIATION & SPACE MUSEUM
maintained, and built it. Our ‘things’
Integral during the Apollo program, the Lunar Roving Vehicle (replica) and Grumman Lunar Module (replica) provided critical means of transportation to and from, as well as on, the surface of the moon. 3
Needless to say, Evergreen is well on its way to becoming a popular destination. With a Boy Scout park on the back 40 and a chapel and hotel in the works, it seems the legacy of Captain Michael King Smith truly lives on. Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum is without question the tangible result of one man’s dream and a father’s commitment to see that dream through.
4 The Titan II SLV Missile is the centerpiece of the Evergreen Space Museum. The Titan II exhibit includes an exact replica of the Vandenberg Air Force Base launch room, with a mock launch sequence.
INSPIRATIONAL AVIATION U.S. Air Force Captain Michael King Smith dreamed of a museum where the stories of aviation history could be kept alive to inspire generations to come. Teaming up with his father, Evergreen International Aviation founder Delford Smith, the younger Smith began with a small collection of vintage warbirds. By July of 1990, with the addition of the Spruce Goose, they were well on their way to creating a world-class museum. Although the pilot died in an automobile accident before he could realize his dream, Delford Smith saw to it that his son’s legacy lives on in the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum.
EVERGREEN AVIATION & SPACE MUSEUM
ADDRESS:
500 Northeast Captain Michael King Smith Way, McMinnville, OR 97128 TIMES:
Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ADMISSION:
$25 for adults, $24 for seniors (ages 65 and over), $23 for youth (ages 5-16), and free for kids 4 and under URL:
www.evergreenmuseum.org
3
4
It takes a smart tire to open up new possibilities. With over 40% more treadlife than the leading competitors,* an aggressive tread design and a 65,000-mile warranty,** where you can go is virtually boundless. Learn about the full line of Open Country tires at toyotires.com/opencountry.
*Mileage projection based upon commissioned third-party test results. Test conducted on LT265/70R17 tires. Individual results may vary. For a copy of the test report, write to: Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp., P.O. Box 6052, Cypress, CA 90630. **Among P-Metric and Metric A/T tires. Mileage warranty will vary by tire type and is subject to exclusions. For complete details, visit toyotires.com. Š2013 Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp.
WHEN SURVIVAL GOES TO THE FITTEST, THIS RIG WILL DEFINITELY MAKE ROAD WARRIORS OUT OF ITS OCCUPANTS BY JOHN SCHWARTZE PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY Z. DE KUYPER
Over the years we’ve seen Hollywood conjure up countless interpretations of how vehicles would take shape in preparation for, or in reaction to, doomsday. But if things go haywire in real life, would you really want to be driving Mel Gibson’s blown Interceptor or the rocket-launching Landmaster from Damnation Alley? Style is great on the silver screen, but in the event of a catastrophe, practicality is where the cream rises to the top. In previous issues of RECOIL we’ve shown you what’s possible in accessorizing a fairly new ride, but the buck doesn’t stop there. Jim DeLozier has taken what many consider an old dog and outfitted it with all the trappings hell on Earth might necessitate. These older trucks are pretty damn resilient and given their versatility, affordability, and abundance, here’s a perfect example of how one was transformed to stay one step ahead if every man must fend for himself. Start thinking backwards from Armageddon and ask yourself what a vehicle would need. Are we talking civil unrest? Disease outbreak? Widespread power outages? The answer is all of the above, because in a true SHTF ordeal, a domino effect is likely. As a security consultant and father of two, DeLozier was not only thinking of how to bug out, but how his brood could survive for an indefinite period of time with limited resources if their only shelter was this truck. Jim carefully thought about how every single aspect of this truck would fare in austere conditions.
MAKE:
Chevrolet MODEL:
C70 YEAR:
1980 ENGINE:
366ci V-8 DRIVETRAIN:
4WD PHONE:
(888) 755-7769 EMAIL:
info@survivortruck.com
IS SUE 0 8
025 REC O ILW E B .C O M
APOCALYPSE WOW! Jim’s quest for the ultimate survivor
7
vehicle began with deciding what kind of utilitarian platform would best suit his vision. He felt that a ¾-ton or 1-ton truck didn’t have the capacity he was looking for and wouldn’t be feasible as a daily driver in terms of mileage. He figured if he was going to go bigger, using it as a daily driver wouldn’t be
6
3
practical anyway. Since the largest
2
vehicle he could own without a commercial license couldn’t exceed 26,000 pounds, he began to narrow his search to a commercial/military-grade chassis that could support a high payload. Then there was the question of whether a modern vehicle or an older one would make more sense. The absence of electronics in these older vehicles helps
4
protect against electromagnetic pulse damage and solar flares. Eventually Jim decided on a 1980 Chevy C70, which was previously used as a commercial drilling rig. Jim picked up this truck for about $10,000 on trade. When he found it, the chassis had already been upgraded to four-wheel drive, was reinforced with a double frame, had a 10-inch frame lift, and had the factory 366 tall-block en-
5
gine. These motors can run on gas or propane, or both at once, so the mixture
1
can be modified depending on barometric pressure and altitude. Jim felt having a vehicle that could run on propane would give him an advantage because it has a longer shelf life than gas or diesel, can legally be stored in larger quantities, and tanks in people’s yards
1 LOWER LIGHTS
2 UPPER LIGHTS
3 SIDE LIGHTS
4 LIGHT BAR
5 WINCH
MAKE:
MAKE:
MAKE:
MAKE:
MAKE:
6 AIR CONDITIONER / HEATER
Lightforce
Lightforce
Lightforce
Bulldog Lighting
Mile Marker
MAKE:
7 CAMO NETS MAKE:
SAAB / Barracuda US
MODEL:
MODEL:
MODEL:
MODEL:
MODEL:
Dometic Corp.
MODEL:
170 Striker combo-beam
210 Genesis (two spot / two flood)
170 Striker with infrared filter
50-inch Bone LED combo beam light bar
SEC15 – 15,000-pound electric winch
MODEL:
URL:
URL:
URL:
MSRP:
MSRP:
Thermo-regulated 360degree camouflage netting system – desert tan
www.lightforce.com
www.lightforce.com
www.lightforce.com
$1,096
$699
URL:
URL:
www.bulldog-lighting.com
www.milemarker.com
10K Class A MSRP:
$7,999 URL:
www.dometic.com
MSRP:
$11,256 URL:
www.saabgroup.com/ northamerica
APOCALYPSE WOW! 1 TANK
6 COMPRESSOR
MAKE:
MAKE:
10 COMPARTMENT CONTENTS
Manchester Tank
Oasis
MAKE:
MODEL:
MODEL:
Chinook Medical Kit
electrician’s tool kit
RUSH MOAB backpack
77-gallon propane tank
12V air compressor and supplemental 6-gallon tank
MODEL:
URL:
MSRP:
from Carburetion & Turbo Systems with
EMPK – Level 4
www.marvac.com
$110
an MSD ignition to assist in the timing
URL:
advance for effective propane use.
URL:
$750
URL:
www.mantank.com
2 WHEELS MAKE:
Titan International MODEL:
Military 10x20 wheels MSRP:
$1,800 URL:
www.oasismfg.com
7 SIDE LIGHT BAR MAKE:
Bulldog Lighting
$3,990
MODEL:
URL:
www.titan-intl.com
20-inch Bones LED combo beam light bar MSRP:
3 TIRES
$506
MAKE:
URL: www.bulldog-lighting.com
Michelin MODEL:
XZL 16:00 R20 MSRP:
8 LEVELING SYSTEM
$1,995
MAKE:
URL:
Equalizer Systems
www.rallequip.com
4 RUN-FLAT TIRE INSERTS (not visible) MAKE:
Hutchinson MODEL:
Mine-resistant run-flat system
MODEL:
Hydraulic ram automatic leveling system
MODEL:
MODEL:
MAKE:
URL:
can be found all over the country if fuel scavenging becomes necessary. He also dressed up the engine with a custom kit
www.511tactical.com
Jim keeps extra electrical compo-
www.chinookmed.com
MODEL:
MAKE:
mechanic’s tool kit
Broco
MAKE:
URL:
MODEL:
www.snapon.com
Mini Breaching Saw Kit URL:
placed quickly in case of a remote EMP
11 COMPARTMENT CONTENTS
www.broco-rankin.com
attack. To further accessorize the truck,
Aqua Sun International MODEL:
Responder “S” solar/battery/12v water purification system – reverse osmosis and UV URL:
www.aqua-sun-intl.com MAKE:
nents onboard such as backup HEI, control modules for the timing advance,
Jim sold people on his vision, had parts and services donated, and eventually
Miller Welding MODEL:
MAKE:
Multimatic 200
Torklift International
which is a prototype and still a work in
it snowballed into what you see here, progress.
MSRP:
MODEL:
$1,965
MODEL:
URL:
GlowStep 8-inch tread depth step
LFP-40 – mobile solar generator 72 watt foldable solar panel and battery pack
www.millerwelds.com
URL:
MODEL:
www.powerenz.com
and other such parts that can be re-
12 STEPS / HANDRAIL
MAKE:
PowerEnz
Jim enlisted Tilling Consulting in San Clemente, California, to handle much
MSRP:
of the design by mocking it up in Solid-
$900 MAKE:
Works to optimize their use of space.
URL:
IDS Solar Technologies
Danny Delamater up at Delson Products
www.torklift.com
in Santa Fe Springs, California, was
Rescue 3,000-watt Pure Sine Wave Solar Generator
responsible for a lot of the custom touches throughout the truck, and most
URL:
www.equalizersystems. com
of the welding was handled by Marty
www.idssolartech.com
9 COMPARTMENT CONTENTS
URL:
MAKE:
Pelican
5 GENERATOR
EMT case with full medical kit and remote area lighting system
MAKE:
MAKE:
5.11
Snap-on
URL:
www.hutchinsoninc.com
Coleman
MSRP:
MAKE:
Marvac Electronics
7
MODEL:
URL:
MODEL:
6250 12/110/220 gas and propane generator with Briggs & Stratton engine
www.pelican.com
6
9
10
11
5
12
8 2 3
4
1
APOCALYPSE WOW! Klett, Mike Phillips, and Duncan Jones.
OK, but what about the actual
Ashley Tilling at Tilling Consulting also
surviving abroad part, like having water?
assisted in the design and engineering.
Seven tanks capable of holding a com-
A custom pop-up camper created by
bined 150 gallons of water were added
Four Wheel Campers with a cab-over
and run through a solar-powered water
portion may look pretty milquetoast to
purification system. It can be used for
the unsuspecting eye, but it houses the
drinking water or can be plumbed into a
survivalist heart of the truck. Encased
portable shower system that can be set
in a ballistic-reinforced active faraday
up within the camper. The water supply
cage within the camper and serviced by
can be recycled for an indefinite period
a positive-pressure, nuclear/biological/
of time. Water could also be pumped in
chemical air filtration system is what
from another source when it’s time to
Jim calls the command center. It is
replenish. The system can be powered
essentially a safe room housing all the
electronically or with a hand pump.
communications, surveillance, comput-
And yes, there’s a toilet that goes into a
ers, night vision, ground radar, and
separate septic tank.
thermal imaging equipment and can
if it gets stuck? No problem. A 24-ton
It’s all kept at a comfortable tempera-
capacity hydraulic leveling system
ture by a custom heater and Class A
can help this beast out of spots if and
air-conditioning system.
when it gets stuck. Dual 15,000-pound
1
winches can also be employed if need
gear? OK, you asked for it. Three
be. You may also be wondering about
thermal cameras that can be mounted
ordinance Jim may encounter — he
in front (wide, medium, and narrow)
was too. Those 53-inch military tires
can monitor the driving area ahead for
were fitted with mine-resistant run-
heat signatures in case driving needs
flat inserts, and there are plans for
to be done with only the front infrared
explosion-resistant paneling to protect
lights activated while wearing night
the undercarriage.
vision equipment. Surveillance cameras
3
Yeah, but this thing’s so heavy, what
hold six people belted into jump seats.
Want more specifics on the tech
2
The entire truck is also Rhino lined,
COMMAND CENTER AR500 armor plate, ¾-inch ballistic fiberglass by Pacific Bulletproof covered by ¾-inch cabinet-grade plywood for attachment of desired items. Thor-Shield EMP protection. Custom made by Delson Products.
can be mounted on each side as well
which quiets the vehicle. And if that
as a long-range camera that faces
wasn’t enough, its texture allows it to
forward. A pan/tilt/zoom can be affixed
become embedded with dirt over time
to a masthead above the vehicle for a
to add to its camo-colored aesthetics.
360-degree view, along with a laser/
Jim also keeps extra paint onboard to
1 AIR FILTRATION SYSTEM
MAKE:
thermal combo camera.
switch up the vehicle’s color to match
MAKE:
Wamar Technologies
different surroundings. No, it’s not an
American Safe Rooms
MODEL:
MODEL:
C4ISR Tactical Video Monitoring System, multi-mode wireless connectivity, ROIP radio over IP, thermal imaging, laser camera, pan/tilt/zoom (PTZ) cameras, ground radar, video recording
A CB radio, ham radio with repeater, and private encrypted two-way radio
armored car per se, but this is not a war
with repeater will also keep Jim in
fighter, it’s a long-term escape vehicle
the know if standard communications
meant to take the abuse any gauntlets
become limited. Chem suits and SCBA
along the way could throw at it.
kits are kept onboard to drive through
But what’s powering this monstros-
hazardous areas, and Jim intends to run
ity? A lot of things. Dual alternators and
the air filtration system directly into the
a 12-volt belt-driven generator run off
cab. Though the camper itself is not
the engine, along with four separate
airtight, the positive pressure system
battery banks all charged from the
makes it acceptable. A ground radar
same system with separate high-amp
system monitors the surroundings for
isolators to charge multiple systems
objects, movement, aircraft, combat-
independently. Add to that a solar panel
ants, and animals.
on the roof, a standalone 3,000-watt
URL:
www.thorshield.com, www.pacificbulletproof.com, www.delsonproducts.com
12-volt NBC (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical environment) air filtration system with auxiliary hand pump for power failures URL:
www.americansafe room.com
2 RUGGEDIZED PC with RAM mounts, docking station, 4G wireless internet, remote camera management
3 ELECTRONICS
MSRP:
not for commercial sale URL:
www.wamartech.com
MAKE:
Motorola MODEL:
Two-way radios kit URL:
www.motorola.com MAKE:
Yaesu MODEL:
Ham radio kit URL:
www.yaesu.com
APOCALYPSE WOW! 1 CAMPER
1
MAKE:
Four Wheel Campers MODEL:
modified/custom Keystone model with queen size bed, bench seat that converts into double bed, sink and shower with hot and cold water, toilet, air conditioner, heater, two-burner stove, refrigerator, food storage, television with DVD player and satellite, dual 12-volt batteries, solar panel on roof, shorepower hookup. VALUE:
$45,000 URL:
www.fourwheelcampers.com
GUN INVENTORY (1) Springfield Armory M1A rifle
solar generator, and deployable solar
much checked off everything you’d find
this truck cost to build. At present, Jim
generator and you’ve pretty much got
on a survivalist’s holiday list. An indus-
has over half a million dollars invested.
all your power sources covered. Three
trial breaching saw, industrial chainsaw,
Now, before you go pour yourself four
gas tanks and two 77-gallon propane
a full medical kit including oxygen
fingers of that bourbon we recommend-
tanks also power the vehicle, while a
and transfusion apparatus, 12-volt air
ed on page 138 to handle the initial
110/240-volt gas/propane generator on
compressor, portable welder, fire-sup-
shock of that investment, remember
the side can power various other items
pression system, bow and arrows, glass
this is a prototype for which most of the
stored on the vehicle. Fully fueled, the
breakers, 1,800 MREs and additional
parts and services were donated based
truck is capable of a 3,000-plus-mile
sea rations, remote-area lighting, air/
on sharing the owner’s vision. No, this
range, depending on payload.
electric/fuel line reels, body armor, and
wasn’t built after winning some big
a variety of outdoor clothing are just
Powerball jackpot.
Surely you’d need to protect a vehicle like this, right? Of course! Aside from
some of the things residing in compart-
the surveillance measures, motion,
ments throughout the truck.
vibration, window break sensors,
So what’s next for this behemoth? At
The idea behind producing Survivor Trucks is to ultimately create a modular vehicle to satisfy the demands of the
audible alarm, and remote access via
present, Jim plans on outfitting it with
end user, as no one vehicle can satisfy
4G wireless help keep the truck secure
spare tires, an overdrive system, a navi-
every demand. Who knows, you may
from intruders. Thermo-regulated camo
gation system, thicker insulation in the
start seeing multiple Survivor Trucks
nets can also be deployed to completely
camper to reduce heat signatures/light
out roaming the countryside. Sure, you
cover the vehicle. Jim also keeps guns
emission, and even building a produc-
could go cheaper and cut corners, but
onboard with anywhere from 10,000 to
tion vehicle for global sales on a new
is it any surprise that a vehicle outfitted
30,000 rounds of ammo. Sub-cache
chassis from Freightliner, Mercedes,
with this much stuff would be so costly?
canisters are also part of the truck’s
Ford, Fuso, and more. Not each will be
What are the lives of you and your fam-
inventory so that they can be buried
alike of course. Additions in one place
ily worth when it comes to nationwide
anywhere he sees fit in case he needs
can create deficits in others, which Jim
upheaval? Like the old saying goes —
to come back later and dig up supplies.
discovered through trial and error.
better to have it and not need it than
Speaking of supplies, Jim has pretty
You’ve probably been wondering what
need it and not have it.
(2) POF P416 f/a 10.5-inch barrel 5.56x45mm gas piston carbine with EOTech HHS-II sights (EXPS2-2 sight and G33 3x magnifier with switch to side mount) and YHM suppressor (2) POF P416 f/a 14.5-inch barrel 5.56x45mm gas piston carbine with Aimpoint Micro T1 with high mount and Aimpoint 3x Magnifier with twist-mount base for interoperability with PVS-14 Gen III+ NV and YHM suppressor (2) POF P308-FA 16.5-inch barrel 7.62x51mm gas piston carbine with NightForce NXS 2.5-10x24 rifle scope and YHM suppressor (4) POF P308 20-inch barrel 7.62x51mm gas piston rifle with NightForce NXS 5.5-22x50 rifle scope with MLR reticle and YHM suppressor (1) FN A3G 24-inch barrel .308 Win bolt-action rifle with McMillan A3 stock and NightForce NXS 5.5-22x50 rifle scope with MLR reticle with SureFire suppressor (1) Blaser .300 WinMag bolt-action rifle with Schmidt & Bender 3-27x56 PMII Hi-Power rifle scope with SureFire suppressor (4) Springfield Armory XD-45 pistols
UNUSUAL SUSPECTS
PARACORD-WRAPPED KNIVES MAKE:
it if it gets too worn — for what amounts to 25 to 50 cents in materials. You can’t do that with a traditional fixed blade
MODEL:
Knives & Tools
You can’t go to a range, campground,
without paying substantially more.
OAL:
Tangle
or hiking trail without spotting at least
Check out the paracord-wrapped knives here then turn to
OAL:
a few people sporting Survival Straps
turn to Page 36 for our full review of each model. Perhaps one
BLADE LENGTH:
or similar accessories made of cord.
of them just might
And for good reason: this type of
be joining you
rope is tough, lightweight, and highly
on your next
versatile. What once was used for lines
outdoor adventure.
MODEL:
BLADE LENGTH:
8.75 inches
BLADE MATERIAL:
3.9 inches
Ceramic
BLADE MATERIAL:
1.3 ounces
WEIGHT:
9Cr18MoV stainless steel
MSRP:
WEIGHT:
$47
5.6 ounces
in U.S. parachutes during World War
URL:
MSRP:
II has evolved into a general-purpose
URL:
utility cord. You can find “550 cord”
www.boker.de/us MAKE:
2 Gerber MODEL:
Bear Grylls Paracord Fixed Blade OAL: 7.75 inches 0 8
to rewrap the handle to your personal preferences or replace
Paracord is “in” and it’s everywhere.
1.625 inches
IS SU E
traditional fixed-blade handles. And there’s always the option
4 SOG Specialty
4.25 inches
REC O ILW E B .C O M
those with smaller paws, because they’re narrower than most
1 Boker Plus Cera-Neck
034
MAKE:
BY PATRICK VUONG
which, cord-wrapped handles can provide a better grip for
$80
www.sogknives.com MAKE:
5 Medford Knife & Tool MODEL:
(so-called because the most common type is rated with a 550-pound breaking point) on everything from lanyards
NAV-H
to backpacks. Just look at the knives
OAL:
on these pages.
BLADE LENGTH:
9 inches
BLADE MATERIAL:
4 inches
WEIGHT:
D2 tool steel
might scoff at this grip material, but
WEIGHT:
MSRP:
13 ounces
we’ve come to realize that, just like
MSRP:
with firearms, it’s all about using the
URL:
$400
3.25 inches 5Cr15MoV
5.75 ounces $37
www.gerbergear.com MAKE:
3 Keen Edge Knives MODEL:
Live Pukulan OAL:
7.75 inches BLADE LENGTH:
3.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL:
1095 tool steel WEIGHT:
3.2 ounces MSRP:
$125
URL:
www.keenedgeknives. com
BLADE LENGTH: BLADE MATERIAL:
URL:
www.medfordknife.com MAKE:
6 Benchmade MODEL:
The fixed blades here all feature paracord-wrapped handles. Some
right tool at the right moment. For example, we’re not going to use a cord-wrapped knife to filet fish or to go scuba diving. But 550 cord
375BK Adamas
properly tied around a reliable,
OAL:
full-tang blade can serve
BLADE LENGTH:
admirably in the field.
9.03 inches 4.2 inches
BLADE MATERIAL:
Why? Weight savings.
D2 tool steel
The paracord on a knife
WEIGHT:
weighs no more than a
MSRP:
fistful of hair — great
5.6 ounces $160
URL:
www.benchmade.com MAKE:
news for anyone practicing bushcraft, heading on an intense hiking trip, or
7 Coye Knives LLC
going into harm’s way for
MODEL:
weeks at a time. After
OAL:
all, ounces equal pounds
Light Horse 9.5 inches BLADE LENGTH:
and pounds equal pain,
4.5 inches
as the saying goes. An-
BLADE MATERIAL:
other advantage is ergo-
WEIGHT:
nomics. Sorta. Because
S35VN stainless 6 ounces MSRP:
paracord is pliable, it’ll
$325
eventually conform to
URL:
your hand. Speaking of
www.coyeknives.com
10”
9”
8”
7”
6”
5”
4”
3”
2”
1”
UNUSUAL SUSPECTS
UNUSUAL SUSPECTS INTERROGATING THE
BOKER PLUS CERA-NECK
GERBER BEAR GRYLLS PARACORD FIXED BLADE
KEEN EDGE KNIVES LIVE PUKULAN
This is a neck knife of epically tiny proportions. As the name implies, the Cera-Neck is meant to be worn around the neck and used as a last-ditch device when your primary tools aren’t available.
Bear Grylls is a former British Special Air Service operator who gained fame for his Man Vs. Wild TV show. He’s since teamed up with Gerber to offer a line of survival gear, including this minimalist knife that’s aimed as a backcountry emergency tool.
Keen Edge Knives is best known for making training knives, but can also make a mean live blade — case in point: the Live Pukulan. It looks like a butter knife on steroids but its design is actually inspired by Southeast Asian martial arts. All Keen Edge products are made in the United States.
+
+
+ + + +
IS SU E
0 8
-
It weighs 1 ounce — yes, 1 ounce! It’s surprisingly sharp. It comes with a great Kydex sheath. Because it’s made of ceramic, it’s corrosion free. This thing is small. Perhaps too small to be anything but a novelty item? Our tester could only grip it firmly with two fingers. It’s made completely of ceramic and is weak laterally. Be careful because it’ll chip or even fracture if mistreated.
+ +
-
+ -
An exceptionally comfortable grip, thanks to the braid in the center of the cord wrap, the teardrop shape of the tang, and the deep choil for the index finger. The laser-like blade, made of 1095 tool steel, can take a serious beating. The flip side of 1095 tool steel: it’s nonstainless so you’ll have to maintain it properly.
While easy to sharpen, the 5Cr15MoV blade doesn’t hold an edge for long. Out of the box, the cord wrap pattern doesn’t offer much of a grip. We had to rewrap it to get a more assured grip.
+ + + -
It looks like a beast, but is actually light and well balanced. Deep thumb groves on the spine make it easier to drive the blade. The wrap pattern is cool-looking, while providing a solid grip. For those with medium to small hands, the handle will probably be too wide to get a comfortable grip. Despite 9Cr18MoV being marketed as a higher-end Chinese stainless steel, we’re not particularly impressed with it.
REC O ILW E B .C O M
036
The paracord is bright orange, making it easy to spot if it’s dropped in mud, water, or foliage. The cord can be undone for other field uses or to be rewrapped in your preferred pattern It comes with a slim sheath that’s reversible. The belt loop can be removed or used to attach to your pack.
SOG SPECIALTY KNIVES & TOOLS TANGLE
SOG makes some excellent fixed blades. The Tangle can be considered one of their more manly blades, with its beefy handle, tightly wound cord, and thick, hollow-ground drop-point blade.
MEDFORD KNIFE AND TOOL NAV-H
BENCHMADE 375BK ADAMAS
COYE KNIVES LIGHT HORSE
Medford Knife and Tool was founded by Greg Medford, a former U.S. Marine and a martial arts instructor who handcrafts all of his knives in Phoenix, Arizona. His NAV-H blade is a general-purpose battle knife used by troops, police, hunters, and survivalists alike. (There are versions with black Micarta and ribbed Neoprene handles, as well.)
Benchmade is donating a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Adamas lineup to the Ranger Assistance Foundation, a nonprofit that provides support and fundraising to the soldiers of the 75th Ranger Regiment and their families.
As a paramedic and registered nurse for an air ambulance service, Bill Coye founded Coye Knives after recognizing the need to have reliable tools when lives are on the line. His blades, all handcrafted in the United States, reflect this level of dependability and attention to detail.
+ + + -
The NAV-H is quite robust — it feels like you could chop your way out of an aircraft. You can configure the knife to your liking, with seven different colors and two finishes to choose from. It comes with a great Kydex sheath with a Tek-Lok belt clasp. Its strength is also its weakness: The 0.29-inch-thick D2 stock is heavy. NAV-H is the fat cow of this bunch. It’s expensive! At $400, it costs as much as some shotguns.
+ + +
-
The drop-point blade has wide serrations on its spine for additional uses. The Adamas feels great in hand and has just the right balance. It comes with the cord unwrapped and a link to an online demo, which teaches you how to tie your own handle. (If you’re experienced, having the cord unwrapped saves you the trouble of having to unwrap it before customizing it with your own wrap pattern.) Arriving with unwrapped cord can be a con if you’re a newbie and not able or willing to practice tying the rope yourself. D2 tool steel is crazy tough and resists wear like nobody’s business. But it’s not stainless, so care is needed to fight off corrosion.
+ + +
-
-
The Light Horse’s CPM154 blade is top notch. It retains its edge, is easy to clean, and cuts or punctures pretty much anything we throw at it. The knife is lightweight, well balanced, and easy on the eyes. It comes with an extra, skull-decorated bundle of cord at the end that can be removed and used for emergencies. The knife itself is near flawless. However, the Kydex sheath comes up about an inch too high on the knife once sheathed. We’d prefer if it stopped a little shorter to allow a full grip on the handle so we don’t have to readjust our grip once we draw the knife. At a cost of $325, it’s a bit of an investment — a worthy one if you can afford it.
WHEN I HOLD IT
It feels like it was made just for me. When I shoot it,
I KNOW IT WAS.
FNX-45
THAT’S THE
DISTINCT ADVANTAGE
THE FNX-45
www.fnhusa.com
Distinct Advantage
WE SEND ARMALITE’S SUPER SASS TO FAT CAMP
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BY KEITH WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY Z. DE KUYPER
REC O ILW E B .C O M
038
After hearing about a few too many
in my safe, I figured I’d let them prove
barrel construction that is making
“game changers” that didn’t live up
their claims.
waves in the firearm industry.
to their marketing hype, I’ve become
Proof Research is based in the
Carbon fiber is roughly seven times
pretty jaded when it comes to new
emerging gunmaking Mecca of West-
stronger than steel by weight, and
products in the firearms industry.
ern Montana and encompasses four
though it has been around as long as
When I sat down with a company
previously independent companies.
the AR-10, it didn’t see widespread use
called Proof Research at the 2013
The firm combines a small custom rifle
on firearm parts until the past decade.
SHOT Show in Vegas, I had my BS
company specializing in ARs and bolt
Even now, the process of producing
detector with me. They were claiming
guns, a traditional steel barrel factory,
carbon fiber barrels that meet claims
to have perfected the process of build-
its carbon-fiber barrel operation, and
of strength, accuracy, and heat dis-
ing rifle barrels out of carbon fiber.
a synthetic stock manufacturer. Proof
sipation has proven difficult for even
Well, technically, it’s actually wrapping
Research builds rifles from the ground
the best manufacturers. Using fibers
really thin steel barrels in the space-
up, as well as sells components to
traditionally found on race car brakes
age compound. I’m always up for
consumers and manufacturers alike.
and wrapping them in a manner that
carrying less weight so I was intrigued.
Though I’ve used some of its other
favors the longitudinal heat dispersion
When they offered to put a barrel on
products, which are first-rate, it is the
of the materials, Proof Research’s bar-
the Armalite Super SASS languishing
innovation in the realm of carbon-fiber
rels are designed to dissipate the heat
AAC mount serves as first baffle in the suppressor stack, reducing erosion on the can and is an efficient muzzle brake on its own.
IS SU E
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emanating from the steel barrel rather
REC O ILW E B .C O M
040
Today’s soldiers have access to more
than insulate it. Proof’s barrels begin
high-quality weapons and gear than
as full-profile cut-rifled match grade
ever before, but they also have to lug
416R stainless steel barrel blanks
it around the battlefield in challenging
made in-house that are turned down
conditions. Lightening the soldier’s
to a thin profile everywhere but the
load has become a major focus in
shank, muzzle, and gas block journal.
defense procurement, and cutting
This pencil-thin steel is then wrapped
the weight of the soldier’s rifle is an
with carbon fiber in a helical pattern
ideal place to start. Proof’s lightweight
and secured with a proprietary bonding
sniper rifle barrels have passed prelimi-
agent. The process provides a finished
nary testing by the U.S. military and
product that is stiffer, stronger, and 20-
are the first carbon-fiber barrels to do
to 64-percent lighter than a steel barrel
so — they are currently being fielded
of equal capability — and it dissipates
by at least one elite unit. At this point,
heat far faster, too. Stiffer barrels
Proof’s barrels are rated for semi-
mean less harmonic “whip,” resulting
auto use only, but they are constantly
in better accuracy; the improved heat
innovating the product with plans to
dissipation means that the barrel will
make the technology available for full
maintain that accuracy over longer ses-
auto and crew-served weapon use in
sions of fire.
the near future.
ANOREXIC AR-10
On its way from ugly duckling to swan. The stock handguard offers plenty of opportunity for weight saving.
IS SUE 0 8
041 REC O ILW E B .C O M
PRI handguard is longer, which means less chance of resting the barrel on your pack and throwing the shot.
SLIMMING THE FAT SASS
SASS is an excellent turnkey setup for
options available if long-range shooting
someone looking for a semi-auto preci-
is your game. While the military is
box-stock Super SASS, essentially
sion rifle, but at nearly 12 pounds with
stuck with 7.62mm for logistical and
Armalite’s entry into the Army’s trials for
no optic, it’s a heavy bastard. With a
institutional reasons, I am not. Within
what became the M110 Semi-Automatic
third of the rifle’s mass coming from the
the confines of the AR-10 receiver and
Sniper System. The Armalite came
heavy-profile stainless steel barrel, it
magazine, the .260 Remington (which
equipped with a 20-inch match barrel
was obvious that we would start there.
is a .308 Winchester case necked-
We started our own testing with a
Since we were swapping barrels, I
down to .264 inches/6.5 mm) strikes
tinny free-floated rail system, a match
decided to change calibers as well. The
what I believe to be the best balance
two-stage trigger, and an adjustable gas
7.62x51mm is an amazingly versatile
between velocity and bullet mass for
block for suppressor use. The Super
cartridge, but there are more suitable
putting rounds on target at extended
in 7.62x51mm, an aluminum quad Pica-
ANOREXIC AR-10 ranges. Bullets fired from the .260
at the muzzle was threaded to accept
Remington will drop about 10 feet less
an AAC Blackout to cut down on recoil
than those of a similar sectional den-
and to allow for the attachment of a
sity from a 7.62x51 at 1,000 yards.
762-SDN-6 suppressor. By swapping
The higher velocity produced by the
out the factory barrel and gas block for
.260 Remington also means a shorter
the Proof Research barrel, we imme-
bullet flight time and, subsequently,
diately cut 2 pounds 2.5 ounces from
less wind drift. On the other hand, the
the overall rifle weight, while adding
.260 isn’t moving so fast that barrel
2 additional inches of barrel length.
life is an issue — it’s “just right” for
In addition to the weight savings and
my purposes.
improved performance of the carbon
Proof Research built me a 22-inch carbon-wrapped barrel chambered in
unique subdued black and gray camo
.260 Remington with a 1:8 twist for
pattern is a byproduct of the proprietary
stabilizing high ballistic coefficient
manufacturing process. Everyone who
140-grain bullets. They traded the
sees the smooth, swirly surface can’t
Armalite two-position gas block for
help but reach out and touch it.
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a fully adjustable unit that fit one of
REC O ILW E B .C O M
042
barrel, it just plain looks cool: the
We’d moved the ball toward our goal
their standard barrel sizes, as we didn’t
of a lightweight rig, but would it shoot?
have time to order a custom profile
The rifle is capable of sub-½ MOA
barrel. The full-contour steel section
groups from the bench, but I wanted to
ANOREXIC AR-10
see how it would perform under more realistic conditions. I headed to Texas with a Pelican case full of rifle parts, a photographer, and a supply of my
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editor-in-chief’s handloads.
REC O ILW E B .C O M
044
REAL-WORLD APPLICATION Steve Struve of Cawthon Cartridge Club in Millican, Texas,
AR-10 disassembled. Despite the barrel’s girth, it’s much lighter than the original allsteel unit.
(www.cccshooters.com) gave us the run
the turrets to zero on the Leupold
of his tactical shooting paradise: more
4.5-14x50mm ER/T optic before head-
than 800 acres of varying terrain and
ing to more open country. As we drove
fixed ranges, complete with a 1,000-
to the second range, I reached out and
yard steel range. Range Director Fred
wrapped my hand around the Proof
Quarles, an accomplished long-range
Research barrel that had just sent a
shooter, set us up on one of the training
couple of dozen rounds downrange both
ranges to get our zero. We quickly got
with and without an AAC suppressor —
the rifle shooting on paper and reset
it was cool enough to touch.
Civilian-legal in 39 states and counting...
|
www.advanced-armament.com
70mm 60mm 50mm 40mm 30mm 20mm 10mm 0mm
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.308 (right) versus .260. Bigger isn’t always better — the smaller diameter, high BC bullet is more effective at long range.
REC O ILW E B .C O M
046
Fred’s ballistic app told us to dial 9 MOA of elevation for the 500-yard target and the first round hit the steel with a satisfying “smack.” A little fine-tuning for wind and we were drilling centers with boring regularity. It was time to stretch it out and see if the rifle was up to some truly long-range work. At 1,000 yards, the 16-inch steel plate taunted me at 14.5x through the swirl of mid-day mirage. This time the app called for 27 MOA up and the 9 o’clock wind had me dialing for doubledigit windage. “Send it.” All eyes were on me as the Armalite’s 4-pound trigger started feeling more like 40. The trigger broke and I got the scope back on target in time to see a puff of dirt a few feet to the right of my point of aim. Time to dial more wind. “Left 7, send it.” Another shot, this time right off target at 6 o’clock, possibly even skimmed the edge of the plate. “Hold at 1 o’clock, send it.” Exhale, squeeze, bang, recoil...three
™
In 1990 a Navy SEAL was navigating a minefield when his pack failed. As his gear tumbled to the ground, he vowed that if he got out of there alive he would make gear the right way. Today this obsession with quality applies to everything we do. We’re constantly researching, refining and perfecting every detail to provide gear that won’t let you down. Because we’re not just making stuff. We’re honoring a vow.
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ANOREXIC AR-10
seconds later, the sound of copper hit-
the suppressor attached. You could
with scope, sling, and bipod. Pretty
ting steel.
shoot this rifle all day long without tak-
impressive for a 1,000-yard setup,
ing a beating.
and less than a pound heavier than the
“Hit!”
The gun was light and shot well, but
I sent another round, again a hit,
completely nekkid base gun.
and so on until we ran out of ammo.
we still had more fat to cut. This rifle
When Eugene Stoner engineered
We had a legitimate 1,000-yard rifle
would wear a sling and a bipod, but
the AR-10 using what were space-age
on our hands, and not some 15-pound
not much else, so I didn’t need acres
materials at the time, he changed the
custom bolt gun — one that functioned
of Picatinny rail weighing me down and
firearm world forever. Decades later, we
flawlessly from 20-round mags and
tearing up skin and gear. PRI’s 15-inch
have access to products and materials
carried all day easily in an Eberlestock
free float tube, made almost entirely
that can take his genius to another level
Gunslinger II pack.
from carbon fiber, was a perfect fit
without compromising performance.
for the big Armalite. Weighing only 19
Proof Research has cracked the code
ounces and featuring just enough rail
of carbon-fiber-wrapped barrels by
for my intended use, this fore-end was
producing products that cut weight and
and gun” long-range matches where
ideal for achieving our goal of cutting
aid cooling without sacrificing accuracy
speed and mobility can be as impor-
as much weight as possible. My SASS
or durability. The company has a fully
tant as accuracy. And military and law
was part of a production run that came
funded R&D department that uses hard
enforcement applications are pretty
equipped with FDE furniture (including
science to continually innovate its prod-
self-evident. Even though the rifle is
a UBR stock from Magpul), so the FDE
ucts. Those resources pay dividends
light by precision rifle standards, it’s
PRI tube kept to the theme. With it in-
when it comes to performance. This
still pleasant to shoot, especially with
stalled, our final weight is 12.7 pounds
rifle is proof positive.
LIGHT AND COOL This rifle is the perfect setup for “run
SPEC BOX ARMALITE
SUPER SASS CALIBER
7.62X51MM NATO LENGTH
41 INCHES WEIGHT
11 POUNDS, 13.44 OUNCES
$
MSRP
$3,100 BARREL: PROOF RESEARCH LENGTH: 22 INCHES CALIBER: 6.5MM CARTRIDGE: .260 REMINGTON TWIST: 1:8 RH DIAMETER AT GAS BLOCK: .975 INCHES WEIGHT: 1 POUND, 13.5 OUNCES MSRP: $1,040 URL: WWW.PROOFRESEARCH.COM
FEATURED ACCESSORIES:
LEUPOLD MARK 4 ER/T 4.5-14X50MM (30MM) M3 FRONT FOCAL $2,000 LEUPOLD INTEGRAL MOUNTING SYSTEMS MARK 4 $266 PRI GEN III ARMALITE 15-INCH FDE CARBON FIBER FOREARM $380 AAC BLACKOUT 7.62 51T $150 AAC HUNTER $650 HARRIS BIPODS HBR 6 TO 9 INCHES $90 CALDWELL SHOOTING SUPPLIES PICATINNY RAIL ADAPTER $20 VIKING TACTICS WIDE PADDED SLING $41 MAGPUL UBR STOCK $265 PRICE AS FEATURED
$ $8,002
URL
www.proofresearch.com
DEXTERITY FULL VENTILATION
KNUCKLE GUARD PADDED PALM
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THIS COMPACT BOLT-ACTION FOLDER IS ERGONOMIC, ACCURATE, AND ADAPTABLE BY IAIN HARRISON PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY Z. DE KUYPER
IS SUE 0 8
051 REC O ILW E B .C O M
Scott McRee is a nationally ranked benchrest shooter, whose hobby is to make very, very small holes in paper. He and his wife spent the better part of a decade in the sport, picking up more than a few titles along the way, many of which were won using rifles he put together himself. So it’s safe to say he and his team know what it takes to build a gun that will shoot. After forming McRee’s Precision in the mid-2000s to serve the needs of the tactical long-range shooter, his benchrest experience was applied to rifles that are used in a more demanding environment. Instead of making very small holes in paper, members of the SF community overseas have used McRee rifles to make some very large holes in a number of high-value targets. McRee began offering his chassis stock for the Remington 700 and other rifles to the public in 2007, after five years in service with the military. Following in the footsteps of Accuracy International, the idea of the chassis system is to eliminate the need to bed the rifle’s action to the stock, relying instead on a precisely machined interface to perform a job previously done by gooping epoxy in the space between those two major components. The G5 TMAG chassis quickly became the company’s biggest seller and is guaranteed to reduce the group size of any rifle to which it’s bolted. If it doesn’t, Scott McRee will buy it back.
Magwell is cut to accept AICS single-position feed magazines.
The stock pack provides both convenient storage and a comfortable cheekweld.
1,000 YARDS. NO PROBLEM.
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the second round out of the tube, after center-punching targets from 500 to
PROTOTYPE PERFORMANCE
After establishing it could actually perform, it was time to take a look at
develop a line of complete rifles for the
The test rifle was assembled in the
civilian market, which will be available
Lesterville, Missouri, shop and shipped
what went into the rifle. Starting at the
January 2014. Reviewing prototypes is
to Utah in preparation for its first
business end, the muzzle is capped
always a tough decision, as a lot can
shakedown. Although the bread-and-
with a thread protector that covers
happen in a product’s development
butter models will be in 7.62 NATO
standard 5⁄8 -24 threads, allowing the
cycle between publication and launch.
and 300 Win Mag, just to be a pain I
user to screw on a muzzle device or
After speaking at length to the guys
requested a prototype sample in .260
suppressor. Barrels will be available in
behind the project, however, we were
Rem. I was teaching on a long-range
22- or 24-inch lengths and start out as
pretty confident that any changes would
hunting course organized by NRA Out-
a heavy, stainless Krieger blank before
be improvements, rather than cost-cut-
doors, and the class gave the oppor-
being chambered to the client’s pre-
ting exercises. But as Ronald Reagan
tunity to fling some high BC bullets at
ferred ammo, using reamers that were
was wont to say, “Trust, but verify.”
distant targets during downtime, while
developed for 1,000-yard benchrest
Based on what we’ve seen, the
getting feedback from a wide variety of
competition.
new rifles will combine many desir-
shooters, some of whom had brought
able features. Detachable mag, check.
monster 30-338’s and other assorted
short-action receiver, the barrel was se-
Folding stock, check. Quick-change
barrel burners. Bear in mind that this
cured to the action by means of a barrel
barrel, check. According to McRee
was a brand-new rifle, with no load de-
nut. In this respect, the gun is a hybrid
sources, the intention was to produce
velopment work or DOPE behind it. Us-
between the Remington and Savage
an American-made alternative to the AI,
ing a firing solution from the free JBM
platforms, offering the user the ability
with similar functionality, at a reduced
Ballistics calculator (hey, if it’s free, it’s
to easily swap out barrels (Savage),
cost. Did they succeed? Read on and
for me) I was able to hit a 3-Minute-of-
along with a vast array of aftermarket
make your own judgment.
Angle (MOA) target at 1,400 yards on
accessories (Remington).
While built on a Remington 700
REC O ILW E B .C O M
1K. Yeah, that’ll work... Since then, they have worked to
053
individual shooter a piece of cake.
so there’s a better than even chance
20-MOA Picatinny base, in order to
Having a rifle that actually fits makes
this piece is, too. Good quality and
prevent your scope from running out
a world of difference when it comes
American made are never bad things
of elevation adjustment on long-range
to eliminating muscle tremors caused
and the ability to stash a spare mag
shots. As the optic in this case was the
by the shooter trying to adapt to the
or compact data book in the zippered
superb Vortex Razor HD 5-20x50, there
rifle, rather than the other way around
pouch is an added bonus. Note that
wasn’t much chance of that happening,
— you should not have to crane your
when setting the cheekpiece height,
but it’s nice to have the performance
neck to see through the scope. In this
you should factor in another 1⁄8 -inch
cushion it offers.
respect, the vast majority of conven-
for the thickness of the pad before
tional stocks that are fitted to factory
torqueing down the screws. Our rifle
rifles, even the so-called “tactical”
came fitted with a Pachmayr recoil
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The action was topped with a
REC O ILW E B .C O M
054
STOCK OPTIONS McRee equipped the test gun with its
models are, to put it bluntly, crap. They
pad, which on a .260 is not really
G5 TMAG stock in its folding configura-
offer very little in the way of adjustabil-
needed, but is definitely appreciated
tion. Because it’s comprised of three
ity for the user (come on, guys, would
on a .300 Win Mag. Other thoughtful
separate sub-assemblies, the G5 offers
it kill you to put a couple of spacers
touches include a flat area for a rear
the end user the choice of a fixed
in the box?) and the comb height is
bag, tapped holes for a monopod and
stock, one that is adapted to use the
almost invariably intended for use with
a hook for the support hand to pull
ubiquitous AR-15 buttstock, or a com-
iron sights. As a result, in order to get
against, all indicators that the design
pact model with a shorter forend. The
a proper cheekweld with a scope, the
team actually spent time in the field
folding stock mechanism is patterned
user is forced to resort to either duct-
with their creation.
after the FAL version and provides a se-
taping foam padding to the stock, or
cure lockup in either the open or folded
installing an aftermarket cheekpiece,
in the forend, which can be swapped
position. The lockup may actually be
both of which are ugly as humanly
for a shorter version by undoing the four
too secure, as our rifle needed a fair
possible. It’s akin to walking into a car
screws forward of the magwell. While
amount of pressure to unlock from the
dealership and having the sales guy tell
the hand stop slot that is machined in
folded position, but this was probably
you, “Yeah, we designed this driver’s
the bottom of the piece is a bit super-
just because it was new and should
seat for the average 12-year-old, but
fluous for most users, the multiple sling
ease up with use. In any case, it’s far
you can buy a replacement or add
stud locations and QD pockets are not.
more preferable than having the stock
cushions to make it fit. That’ll be 40
The sides are textured with a ball end
flop around at the hinge while you’re
grand, please.”
mill, giving a more secure hold during
trying to make a precise shot.
Because the McRee buttstock is
More evidence of this can be found
positional shooting. A really nice feature
The buttstock portion is adjustable
machined aluminum, the manufacturer
for anyone who needs to run a clip-on
for length of pull, butt pad position and
includes a Cordura cheek pad, secured
night vision device is the slightly thicker
cheekpiece location — both fore and
by Velcro tabs. Although there’s no
area at the front of the forend, which
aft as well as height, via Allen screws.
maker’s label on it, the rifle’s case and
is drilled and tapped for an optional
This makes setting up the rifle for the
sling are both made by Tactical Tailor,
saddle mount.
McRee uses a standard Remington 700 action, blueprinted and modified for use with a Savage-style barrel nut. Note the Timney trigger. 1
2 Buttstock partially disassembled. Adjustable for LOP, cheekpiece position, and buttpad height.
3 Vortex Razor HD on 20-MOA base proved to be as tough and capable as the rifle.
1
2
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055 REC O ILW E B .C O M
3
IS SU E
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1,000 YARDS. NO PROBLEM.
REC O ILW E B .C O M
056 The last part of the human interface is handled by an AR-15 pistol grip,
FINAL (FIRST) IMPRESSION After putting the rifle through its
which these days offers almost unlim-
paces in temperatures ranging from
ited options to suit the user’s prefer-
55 to 108 degrees, our only concern
ence and shooting style. A typical AR
relates to its potential cold-weather
positions the web of the shooter’s hand
performance. It’s no coincidence that
closer to the trigger than is optimal
the most evolved version of Accuracy
for a perfect release, which can cause
International’s groundbreaking rifle was
them to put too much finger on the trig-
designated as the Arctic Warfare model,
ger blade. Instead of the usual 2.3-inch
following feedback gained through
distance from trigger to rear of the grip,
annual winter deployments of British
the McRee adds another ¾-inch to that
and American troops north of the Arctic
measurement, which is much closer to
Circle in Norway. All of that exposed
ideal for most adults. Fine-tuning can
aluminum on the McRee would make
be done through the selection of differ-
for one chilly popsicle stick, and the
ent grip sizes and angles. The trigger
standard Remington bolt knob becomes
itself is a Timney unit, adjustable from
pretty small when working with winter
1.5 to 4 pounds, but which came set
gloves.
First group for record out of a new barrel with no load development. Target is gridded in 1-inch squares.
will probably not remain in its current configuration in production rifles, and
at 3.3 pounds. While this may seem a
Should your life’s trajectory take you
little on the heavy side for a precision
to a place where subzero temperatures
rig, the wide trigger blade and crisp let-
are the norm, an aftermarket “skid
remain a Remington 700 type with the
off made it feel lighter than it actually
plate” would be a worthwhile addi-
quick-change barrel system. We hope
was; certainly it was no impediment to
tion to insulate the forend. We heard
that one of the modifications is a larger
performance.
through the grapevine that the bolt
bolt handle.
while there may well be some changes to the action prior to launch, it will
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1,000 YARDS. NO PROBLEM.
The relationship between the stock and action is a critical one. Any variation that can be induced in this area will show up at long range and over the years various steps have been With the stock folded, the rifle will stash in the same space as a 16-inch AR-15.
taken to minimize it and allow the barrel to avoid contact with the stock for maximum accuracy and consistency (commonly referred to as a “free-floating barrel”). Back in the Vietnam era, when wood-stocked sniper rifles were the norm, they body type and preferences — a huge
were glass bedded, a tedious and involved process that none-
Despite being the smallest gun on the
plus. Due to time constraints, deadlines,
theless produced (for the time) acceptable results.
line during its inaugural outing, it ran
ammo shortages and life in general, most
This developed into pillar bedding, where the receiver was
with the big dogs and proved that you
test guns come in, get abused for a while,
held by aluminum posts inlet into the stock around the action
don’t have to beat yourself up in order to
and are then sent back from whence they
screws. Eventually, with the advent of synthetic stocks, pillar
consistently hit 1,000-plus yard targets.
came. This one’s going to get tortured a
bedding morphed into the use of aluminum bedding blocks
The folding stock allows it to be stashed
little while longer and we’ll hopefully com-
— bigger chunks of metal that gave more surface area for the
easily in a backpack and its modularity
pare it to the production version to track
action to mount to. Along the way, someone came up with the
allows it to be configured to the user’s
its development. Stay tuned.
bright idea that if all this aluminum was so great at reduc-
All told then, this rifle performs.
ing inconsistencies, why not ditch the conventional stock
SOURCE
altogether and make the whole thing out of metal.
Vortex Optics | www.vortexoptics.com
CALIBER
.260 REMINGTON BARREL LENGTH
22 INCHES
LENGTH (STOCK FOLDED)
31.75 INCHES
LENGTH (STOCK EXTENDED)
42 INCHES
MAGAZINE CAPACITY
10
WEIGHT UNLOADED
12.3 POUNDS AS CONFIGURED WEIGHT LOADED
15.9 POUNDS AS CONFIGURED
FEATURED ACCESSORIES:
VORTEX RAZOR HD 5-20X50 PRECISION MATCHED RINGS
$2,500 $150
MSRP
$ TARGETED AT JUST UNDER $3,000 MSRP AS FEATURED
$ JUST UNDER $5,650 URL
shop.mcreesprecision.net
REC O ILW E B .C O M
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HK HITS THE MARK WITH THIS LOVE CHILD OF A USP AND P2000 BY GORDON MEEHL ILLUSTRATION BY JENNI SISK
How can you tell someone is lying about serving “in the spe-
status to boost public sales. Moreover, the exact same
cial forces?” They’re talking to you about it...
weapon HK designed and sent to the Navy is available to
The same is true in the gun industry. If it’s a “spec ops” this, or “SOCOM” that, you can usually bet good money that it has yet to go through the rigors of earning that consideration. Not so with the HK45C. Also known by the Navy designa-
you and me. Ya gotta give props to HK for that. The HK45C was born from Heckler & Koch’s work on a full-size .45 to be built for consideration in the U.S. Military Joint Combat Pistol program. The HK45, big brother and
tion Mark 24, it truly is used by the best of the best. Much
inspiration for the HK45C, was not only designed to be used
like the elite bearded warriors for whom it was designed,
by elite soldiers, but designed by one.
HK’s marketing of the HK45C remains understated. Even
Larry Vickers, former Delta operator and the driving force
though it’s earned the reputation as a “SOCOM” weapon,
behind HK’s HK45 program, spoke about the evolution of the
nowhere do you find the company cashing in on its military
weapon and the eventual development of the HK45C.
ZERO DARK 45 As early as 2004, Larry Vickers and
concept eventually became the full-size
Ken Hackathorn challenged themselves
HK45. The HK45C would soon follow,
with designing the ultimate combat-
melding the HK45 design with lessons
ready .45. Their first thought was to
learned from developing the P30.
have HK build a quality 1911. That idea
The HK45 exceeded the require-
was short lived and quickly made its
ments of the Joint Combat Pistol
way to file 13. SIG SAUER and S&W
program and was a favorite to replace
had already had come to market with
the long-standing M9 pistol. However,
battle-worthy 1911s. In addition, an
in 2006 the program was suspended
all-steel German-made 1911 would be
indefinitely, and the M9 remains the
heavy and expensive, two things not
standard-issue handgun for the U.S.
well received by the U.S. military.
military.
Larry said it was then that he and
Though HK didn’t have the opportu-
Ken realized that HK was already
nity to re-arm the whole military, it got
manufacturing a gun that had many of
a lot of attention when it bested both
their desired features, the USP. It just
Glock and SIG SAUER in side-by-side
needed some more work to make it a
comparison testing. The Navy remained
state-of-the-art .45 that had the best
very interested in the HK45 and the
operational features of a 1911 in a
concept of the HK45C.
polymer frame, while meeting the strict
Furthermore, the HK pistols were suppressors. Already enamored with the performance of Advanced Arma-
military group with a photoshopped
ment Corp’s (AAC) suppressors in other
0 8
designed for optimizing the use of
Combat Pistol program.
IS SUE
requirements of the U.S. Military Joint
sketch of a prototype pieced together
military programs, the Navy tasked AAC
from pictures of other HK models, the
with developing a compact suppressor
Larry and Ken approached HK’s
for the HK45C. The wizards and craftsmen at AAC developed a shorter version of the Ti-RANT .45. Renamed the Mark 24, the HK45C and the new Ti-RANT .45S became the go-to kit for certain Navy teams that share a name with an aquatic mammal. Also available to
REC O ILW E B .C O M
lovechild of a USP and a P2000. This
063
ZERO DARK 45 the general public, it’s one of the most lusted-after setups for civilian shooters. If you’ve ever shot a USP45 the HK45C will feel somewhat familiar. Like the USP models, the HK45C can be purchased with one of 10 different trigger configurations. Our test model came with a V1 trigger, double and single action with a manual safety/decocker. Straight out of the box, the single-action trigger pull feels lighter than the advertised 4.5 pounds. A solid and definite trigger break is followed by very little (if any) over-travel to the stop. The reset is certainly not the shortest we’ve felt, but not the longest either, and there’s no missing the reset point. As set up from the factory, there was a little too much slack from reset to breaking the next shot for my preference.
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Larry told me that the HK45C was
REC O ILW E B .C O M
064
by far the most accurate and flattest shooting compact .45 on the market. Knowing that like a proud papa he might have a certain bias, I was a little skeptical. Adding to my doubt was the fact that accommodating so many trigger variations required a higher bore line than most polymer-framed pistols. Word to the wise, don’t second guess Larry Vickers. This is a comfortable, solid tack driver like no other. HK’s proprietary recoil reduction system creates a flatter firing cycle so managing recoil for follow-up shots is easier. Rather than a single recoil spring, HK uses a flat recoil spring coupled with a polymer bushing sleeve to reduce felt recoil. Like many other polymer-frame pistols, the HK45C comes with interchangeable back straps to accommodate different hand sizes. The back strap and front strap are both aggressively stippled for positive and confident grip. The ergonomics and grip angle are comfortable, with the web of my hand naturally going high on the grip. With a frame that’s thinner than its USP siblings, both hands comfortably grasp the HK45C without the chunky feel of some other HKs.
ZERO DARK 45 The safety is easily accessible when acquiring a target and feels a little like a 1911 thumb safety. A warning to 1911 users accustomed to “riding the safety” though, since the safety is also the decocker, riding the safety too hard will cause the hammer to half cock — not good! If this is your natural, habitual or preferred grip technique, trigger variation V9 will solve your problem. With the exception of the safety lever, all controls are ambidextrous. The safety is one sided, but easily flipped around. The extended slide release is within comfortable reach, even with short thumbs, so a drastic grip adjustment is not necessary to put the slide back into battery. The magazine release on the trigger guard is also completely ambidextrous. The position of the magazine release
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does make it more difficult for those with
REC O ILW E B .C O M
066
short thumbs to reach it without a significant grip adjustment. However, with the release on both sides of the trigger guard it’s very easy to drop the mag with the middle finger of your shooting hand, with your index finger off the trigger. The slide shrouds the cold hammer forged barrel with polygonal rifling and HK’s proprietary O-ring system. Front and rear serrations on the slide provide plenty of grip for positive racking. Bright threedot sights are the norm with a tall front sight blade paired with a no-snag ramped rear sight. Leaving nothing unconsidered, the rear sight has a slight overhang, providing the means to rack the slide against a hard edge should you lose the use of one arm. Shooting this compact .45 with a suppressor (which further reduces recoil) will leave you smiling for weeks. The HK45C begs to be coupled with the AAC Ti-RANT 45S and it’s nearly a corporeal sin not to buy and use them together. You can shoot the HK with the Ti-RANT 45S dry, but the true beauty of this marriage is when you put a cap full of water in the can. You’ll see why this setup is a must have.
A Picatinny rail fronting the trigger guard rounds
the top of the front strap. The LG-645 is unnotice-
out the HK45C package. Crimson Trace provided a
able when shooting and projects a bright red dot
trigger guard-mounted laser specifically designed for
showing where you’re about to make a big .45-inch
the HK45C. The LG-645 fits on the trigger guard
hole.
rather than the rail, with an activation button and housing extending along the bottom of the guard to
Among a field of wannabes, make no mistake — the HK HK45C is the real deal.
SOURCES
Advanced Armament | www.advanced-armament.com Crimson Trace | www.crimsontrace.com Heckler & Koch | www.hk-usa.com
SPEC BOX FEATURED ACCESSORIES:
CRIMSON TRACE LG-645 LASERGUARD ADVANCED ARMAMENT CORP TIRANT 45S OVERALL WIDTH (W/LEVER)
1.54 INCHES
HECKLER & KOCH
HK45C
OVERALL HEIGHT
5.51 INCHES
MAGAZINE CAPACITY
8 OR 10 ROUNDS
CALIBER
WEIGHT UNLOADED
BARREL LENGTH
WEIGHT (LASER)
OVERALL LENGTH
WEIGHT (SUPPRESSOR)
.45
3.90 INCHES 7.20 INCHES
1.82 POUNDS 3 OUNCES
9.2 OUNCES
$249 $795
MSRP
$ $1,193
(DA/SA WITH CONTROL LEVER)
$1,260
(LEM ENHANCED DAO MODEL WITHOUT CONTROL LEVER) PRICE AS FEATURED
$ $2,237 URL
www.hk-usa.com
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FNH REVIVES A CLASSIC WITH A MODERN TWIST BY STEVEN KUO PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN TEATOR AND STEVEN KUO
What can you say about a pump shotgun? Bang, chik-chik, bang, chik-chik, bang. It’s almost boring…but it’s exactly that simplicity and boring reliability that so many people love about pump shotguns. So how do you make a pump shotgun more exciting, without going overboard on bling and tacticool nonsense? FNH has a few tricks up its sleeve with the P-12 shotgun.
0 8 IS SU E REC O ILW E B .C O M
072
FNH provides a versatile set of sighting options, including a fiber-optic front sight, folding blade rear sight, and cantilever weaver rail for optics. The rail has a sight channel through which you can view the iron sights.
PLUG AND PLAY Based on the venerable Winchester
are aggressively checkered, and there is a sling swivel stud on the magazine
design introduced with the Model 1200
cap. FNH seems to have thought of
and 1300 from the ’60s and ’70s,
everything.
the FNH P-12 is every inch a fighting
The P-12 holds five rounds in its
12-gauge shotgun, pretty much ready
magazine tube and one in the cham-
to go right out of the box. Assembled in
ber, for a total of six. You can affix a
Portugal alongside its semi-automatic
magazine extension (look for one made
SLP sibling, the P-12 features an 18-
for the Winchester 1200/1300), but
inch barrel, front and rear sights, and a
would have to remove dimples in the
rail for optics.
existing tube to allow the follower to
The first notable characteristic of the
pass. Six is a reasonable load-out,
P-12 is that the bore and chamber are
and while we find it hard to turn down
chrome-lined for longevity and corro-
additional magazine capacity, there are
sion resistance (also making it easy to
plenty of defensive shotgun aficionados
clean). Secondly, it has a rotating bolt
who espouse the overall balance that
design that locks up securely into lug
comes with a modest tube as found on
recesses in the barrel extension and
the P-12. Upon removing the maga-
does not rely upon the receiver, which
zine cap, you will find a retainer that
is made from aluminum alloy. This de-
captures the magazine spring. Depress
sign provides a very strong and reliable
and rotate it to remove the retainer,
lockup. Its dual action bars are stout
allowing you to remove or install a
and move smoothly.
magazine plug limiter for hunting. In
The fit and finish on this shotgun
case you’re wondering, removing the
are impressive. The matte surface
retainer entirely does not buy you any
treatment is attractive and everything
additional magazine capacity…we
about the gun feels solid. The controls
checked, naturally.
RACK AND ROLL
PUMP IT UP Another unique feature of the P-12
Unlike most defensive shotguns, the
rear sight making accurate slug shots
FNH’s 18-inch barrel is threaded for
straightforward. Like the SLP, the cantilever barrel
is its inertia-assisted action. If you
choke tubes. This is a very nice touch,
discharge the shotgun one handed, the
providing additional flexibility to use
extends a weaver rail over the top of the
fore-end will travel back on its own and
the gun for a variety of purposes or to
receiver, making it easy to attach optics.
rack the expended shell out of the cham-
get the best buckshot patterns. Our
The rail also has a sight channel to
ber. Immediately after the round fires,
test gun, oddly enough, was missing
expose the front sight, which some of our
the bolt lugs rotate and disengage from
a choke tube, but FNH ships the P-12
shooters liked as sort of a quick, rough
the barrel extension and under recoil the
with an Improved Cylinder choke tube
rear sight reference and some found dis-
action will cycle rearward. Whether this
and wrench. We tried a few varieties
tracting, preferring an unobstructed view.
assist actually makes you faster shot to
of Winchester slugs, from low recoil
This cantilever does place the sight even
shot or not likely depends on your tech-
tactical loads to full-power variants.
higher than if the rail were on the receiver
nique and familiarity with the weapon.
Most shot high at 50 yards, some a
itself and, unless you’re a doppelganger
We put the FNH pump on a timer against
bit left or right. The folding rear sight
for Jay Leno, it makes your classic
other shotguns to see for ourselves —
can be drifted to adjust windage and
shotgun cheek weld turn into more of a
check out the sidebar for details.
has setscrews to move the blade up
chin weld. A cheek riser would be a nice
and down for elevation, making it easy
addition if you plan to run optics. Lucid
any 2¾- and 3-inch ammo that we fed
to dial in the slugs. The front sight
sent us a prototype of their new M7 red
it. Heavier loads were quite punishing
with fiber-optic insert was easy to pick
dot sight (described in the sidebar), which
to our shoulders (also not a surprise).
up and settled nicely in the V-notch
made slug shots even easier.
Not surprisingly, the P-12 digested
The rotating bolt design locks up securely into lug recesses in the barrel extension. With its inertia-assisted action, the bolt lugs rotate and disengage from the barrel extension immediately after a round is fired and under recoil the action will cycle rearward.
Former U.S. Marine Captain Stanton Lee of The Academy of St. Crispian gives the FNH P-12 a workout during a training course. The P-12 inherits the Winchester manual of arms, with a cross-bolt safety at the front of the trigger guard and the disconnector release button at the rear. This is the opposite of the ubiquitous Remington 870. Some prefer the arrangement; most likely those with long Arsenio Hall-like fingers who can reach the safety easily, since stubby-fingered shooters cannot. The slide release is very convenient regardless of hand size. But we feel these priorities are misplaced — if only one of the controls can be made easy to operate for all types of shooters, better the safety than
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the disconnector release. Furthermore,
REC O ILW E B .C O M
074
a cross-bolt safety is already a challenge for lefties, and the P-12 compounds this by placing it so far forward. Many would argue the Mossberg or Browning has the best of both worlds with a thumb-actuated safety and a disconnector release at the rear of the trigger guard, both easily accessible with either hand.
SHAKING OUT THE P-12 We wanted to really put the shotgun through its paces in some tough scenarios, so we brought it to a unique course offered by The Academy of Saint Crispian, a training firm helmed by former U.S. Marine Captain Stanton Lee. Their Small Unit Leadership Evaluation (SULE) course is inspired by the Marine Corps SULE evolutions in Officer Candidates School. It is an advanced class for vetted students that focuses on building leadership, teamwork, and planning skills, leading up to small-unit, live-fire exercises during the day and at night. With roughly 4 miles worth of hiking and patrolling up and down at least 700 feet of elevation change in full kit, it was a great opportunity to shake out the P-12 shotgun.
AFTER 35 YEARS, WE HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY TO OUR LOYAL CUSTOMERS:
THANK YOU. BUILT IN AMERICA. RESPECTED ON THE RANGE. PROVEN IN THE FIELD. WE’VE BEEN BUILDING MODERN SPORTING RIFLES FOR 35 YEARS. AND WE’RE JUST GETTING STARTED.
© 2013 BUSHMASTER FIREARMS INTERNATIONAL - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
BUSHMASTER.COM
RACK AND ROLL With only five rounds in the tube, keeping the P-12 fed is critical. High Speed Gear, known for its innovative TACO pouch system, makes shot shell
removable trays with the security of poly-
THE TIMER DOESN’T LIE
mer construction (typical alternatives are
Whenever there’s a question of whether
a permanently installed side saddle, or
one thing is faster than another, we like to
Velcro trays with elastic loops to hold the
break out the shot timer. So we set up a
shells). We applied industrial-strength
simple course of fire to see how the FNH
loop Velcro on the side of the shotgun’s
P-12 with its inertia-assisted pump action
receiver and slapped one of the HSGI
would perform. We set up three pieces of
shot shell trays right on it. The trays
steel 3 yards apart and 7 yards from our
secure nicely in HSGI’s TACO pouches
shooting position. From low ready, we en-
— just rip an empty tray off the gun
gaged each piece of steel from left to right,
trays that hold five rounds in polymer loops on a Velcro backer. It’s a nice concept that combines the versatility of
and draw a new one from the pouch, like grabbing a fresh magazine. In turn the TACO pouches were easy to attach
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to our gear, so we had plenty of ammo
REC O ILW E B .C O M
076
close at hand. However, hiking all over creation with a full load-out was a brutal reminder of the bulk of a 12-gauge
then back to the left, for five total hits (i.e., The HSGI Shot Shell Trays have polymer loops attached to a Velcro backer. We did notice that the first, third, and fifth loops are looser than the second and fourth; the rivets attaching them to the backer appear to stretch them outwards. But during live fire we didn’t lose any shells, though they did slide down a bit. To be sure, you can insert all the shells with rims facing up. Pictured with the trays are the HSGI TACO Belt Slide Adapter and Modular Single Rifle Magazine Pouch.
weapon system and ammunition.
1-2-3-2-1). We shot the P-12 with and without the red-dot sight and compared it to a brand-new Remington 870P and a well-worn Wilson Combat Scattergun Technologies 870. We also shot a few strings with a Benelli M2 semi-auto shotgun (we knew how that story was going to end).
Loading the P-12 is straightforward. The loading port is easily accessed, but
STRING 1 STRING 2 STRING 3 AVERAGE
smooth and speedy loads are somewhat FN P-12
hampered by a stiff shell latch and
(IRON SIGHTS)
strong spring tension on the carrier.
FN P-12
2.81
2.80
2.70
2.77
2.57
2.69
2.43
2.56
The opening of the magazine tube is
(RED-DOT)
fronted by a piece of polymer contoured
Remington 870P
2.91
2.98
2.66
2.85
Wilson Combat SGT 870
2.37
2.59
2.53
2.50
Benelli M2
2.02
1.99
1.99
2.00
to make it easier to access, but which can also lead to some binding if your next shell happens to ride over the rim of the previous shell (see photo). This happened on occasion during the stress of some of the live fire exercises —
We weren’t expecting a big difference
when team members left and right have magazine fed rifles, it sure is tough to keep up with a shotgun!
with this course of fire, but the red-dot When loading a shell into the magazine tube, it’s possible for the front crimp to ride over the rim of the previous shell, causing binding when you push forward.
times were a few tenths faster than with iron sights. The 870P had a heavy parkerized finish that was coarser than your dad’s five o’clock shadow and a relatively rough action; we were not surprised when it turned in the slowest times of the lot. The custom 870 had a slick Armor Tuff coating and an action like “buttah” — and sure enough it was the quickest in spite of the P-12’s inertia-assisted action.
PML7022-1 Rev(1)
SEE THE
LINK TRIIJICON FOR COMPETITIVE SHOOTING Reflex Sights: RMR® SRS® Magnified Optics: AccuPoint® ACOG® TARS™ Iron Sights: Bright & Tough™ Night Sights HD™ Night Sights © 2013 Trijicon, Inc.
Wixom, MI USA
1-800-338-0563
www.trijicon.com
RACK AND ROLL MAKE:
LUCID
MODEL:
M7 Micro Dot OVERALL LENGTH:
A weapon-mounted light is a tactical necessity on a defensive pump shotgun. We would usually look to Surefire for an
3.1 inches
integrated light/fore-end, but they don’t
WEIGHT:
offer one for this platform. Instead we
4.9 ounces including AAA battery, 6.2 ounces with riser MSRP:
turned to CDM Gear, whose MTR mount clamps around the magazine tube. It
$229 ($317 with accessories)
has a small piece of Picatinny rail, a
URL:
sling loop, and even a QD socket. To it
www.mylucidgear.com
we attached an INFORCE WML weapon light. The system worked perfectly as the mount cleared the fore-end while allowing the light to be positioned fore and aft exactly where we wanted to make the push-button easy to access.
LUCID is known for a line of reasonably priced
was a problem. Some of us with astigmatism did
optics and earlier this year announced a micro
experience some blurring of the reticle, a common
trigger broke cleanly at six pounds, and
red-dot optic, the M7, with an MSRP of $230.
occurrence with red-dot sights for those so cursed.
the action was impressively smooth for
We got a prototype to test, as production units
Illumination is adjusted with a set of push-but-
a brand-new shotgun. Some have pos-
The P-12 performed admirably. The
are spooling up to ship this summer. It’s just a bit
tons on the side of the sight, which we depressed
tulated that the Winchester-designed
larger and heavier than the benchmark Aimpoint
inadvertently on occasion during routine han-
inertia-assisted action is less prone
T-1, but nearly as bright (to our eyes, the M7
dling. You can toggle between specific brightness
to short stroking (a real concern with
was just a bit dimmer than the T-1 on its retina-
levels and an automatic setting that utilizes a
pump shotguns, when a user under
scorching highest “12” setting). Constructed of
sensor on top of the sight to adjust intensity. This
stress does not fully cycle the action
cast aluminum, the M7 has a built-in mount with
setting responds quickly to changing conditions
and fails to chamber a new round).
an optional riser ($39) to provide a lower ⁄3 co-
and works well with certain exceptions, such as
It was hard to assess if that’s truly
witness with AR platform rifles.
when you are shooting from a dark position into a
the case, but during the hundreds of
1
The reticle consists of a 2MOA center dot sur-
bright area or vice versa. LUCID rates battery life
rounded by a 25MOA circle. LUCID designed it to
from a single AAA at 1,000 hours and includes
allow for rough estimation utilizing the quadrants
a two-hour automatic shut-off feature. Our hand-
(e.g. 12.5 MOA equates to about 12 inches at
made prototype unit suffered from a weak battery
100 yards, roughly the height of a head) and as
spring, which combined with the in-line battery
reference points for holdover and hold-off. Check
compartment contributed to flickering under
the ballistics of your weapon and load to see how
recoil and eventual inability to maintain contact.
well it will work for you. In our testing, the reticle
LUCID indicated that the production units do not
often felt like a single large aiming point, making
have this issue.
it easy to hose targets, but the circle crowds
Not everyone can afford to put Aimpoints on
the center dot enough at 1x that it can become
all their weapons. The M7 is compact, extremely
distracting when trying to take precision shots.
bright, full-featured, and value priced — check
With a magnifier behind it, however, this no longer
it out.
LUCID offers a $49 2x magnifier that screws into the end of the M7. The constricted field of view feels like you’re peering through a straw, so if you can afford it we’d encourage you to look at their standalone magnifier instead. We didn’t have one to test, but tried an Aimpoint 3x magnifier and it worked well with the M7. There is a blue tint to the glass, due to a lens coating that helps achieve the superbright and evenly colored reticle.
rounds fired, we did not have a single short stroke or malfunction of any kind. There’s nothing like humping a weapon and all your gear for 12 hours to get intimate with them. As the only shotgun at the course, we were often jealous of the range and volume of fire that the other shooters enjoyed with their rifles. But as targets were jerked about by angry clumps of lead shot, there was no denying the firepower of the 12-gauge P-12 and the utility it could provide as a weapons platform in a SHTF scenario.
SOURCE
At a retail price of $655, there are cheaper alternatives, but FNH delivers a versatile pump gun with unique features that is thoughtfully configured for tactical and defensive use. It’s literally ready to go right out of the box, just rack and roll!
CDM Gear | www.cdmgear.com FNH USA | www.fnhusa.com High Speed Gear, Inc. | www.hsgi.us INFORCE | www.inforce-mil.com LUCID LLC | www.mylucidgear.com The Academy of St. Crispian | www.stcrispian.com
The INFORCE WML light is very compact, light, and cleverly designed. The push-button is easily actuated and a plastic guard can be flipped up to prevent negligent light discharges. This particular model has low and high settings, as well as an infrared mode. The WML is a 125-lumen rated light powered by a single CR123 cell, though, so will not illuminate the night quite as much as some other lights.
SPEC BOX STOCK
MODIFIED
CALIBER
12-GAUGE BARREL LENGTH
18 INCHES
OVERALL LENGTH
39.125 INCHES MAGAZINE CAPACITY
5+1
WEIGHT UNLOADED
7.06 POUNDS 7.78 POUNDS AS FEATURED
FEATURED ACCESSORIES:
LUCID M7 CDM GEAR MTR MOUNT INFORCE INF-WML-B-WIR HSGI SHOT SHELL TRAY MSRP
$ $655 URL
$229 $40 $175 $29
PRICE AS FEATURED
$ $1,128
www.fnhusa.com
FNH USA
P-12
REC O ILW E B .C O M
082 IS SU E
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ALWAYS FAITHFUL
FOR PAUL BUFFONI, PRESIDENT OF BRAVO COMPANY USA, RUNNING A BUSINESS MEANS MORE THAN MERELY TURNING A PROFIT. IT MEANS PRODUCING THE LATEST IN WEAPONS TECHNOLOGIES FOR THE PUBLIC AND THE DEFENSE MARKET, AND ENLISTING THE INDUSTRY’S TOP EXPERTS TO DEVELOP THE MOST RELIABLE PRODUCTS POSSIBLE FOR THOSE WHO DEFEND OUR NATION’S BIGGEST ASSET — FREEDOM. BY MIKE LANDERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY Z. DE KUYPER
Resolve. The one facet of the human spirit that dictates
hands-on approach to product development and design.
our strength, desire, and ultimately our destiny. While it
“I understand the importance of our products and I will
cannot be taught, bought, or coached, its value is im-
never sacrifice quality for my bottom line,” Paul says. His
measurable when we’re put up against impossible odds.
commitment to quality found Paul’s company on the re-
It makes us unbreakable in the face of defeat. Resolve is
ceiving end of some very favorable online comments from
something Paul Buffoni knows all about.
E.A.G. Tactical’s Pat Rogers, a retired chief warrant officer
“After Sept. 11, I felt a calling to participate as much as
of the Marines, retired NYPD sergeant, and renowned
I could in bettering the country and I thought that creat-
tactical trainer. Pat’s sentiments were not alone; several
ing this company seemed like a great venue in which to do
of the industry’s top tactical gurus and trainers sang the
so,” says Buffoni, a former U.S. Marine reservist and now
company’s praises, so Paul created the BCM Gunfighter
president of Bravo Company USA. Creating BCM was Paul’s
Program to honor and showcase the product input he has
destiny, and the small-arms manufacturer gave up a lucra-
received from the likes of John Chapman, Kyle Defoor,
tive pharmaceutical sales rep position to follow his dream of
Ken Hackathorn, Travis Haley, Dave Harrington, Pat
establishing a company that would ultimately strengthen the
McNamara, John McPhee, Mike Pannone, Pat Rogers, and
fabric of our country. Paul’s sincerity for his mission in life
Larry Vickers — all of whom run BCM equipment.
is as authentic as the numerous letters he has received from
These strategic partnerships have only strengthened
men and women in the military, law enforcement agencies,
Bravo Company’s position among firearms enthusiasts, and
and civilian capacities expressing their gratitude for BCM’s
the company recently opened a new product development
product reliability in getting them out of harm’s way.
division to expand, perfect, and further develop new parts
“Reading their words is very powerful to all of us, and I
and accessories under the BCM Gunfighter line. “We’ve got
often get a lump in my throat before I can even get through
a lot of new projects in the works and are looking forward
them,” Paul says. This sense of moral obligation has been
to bringing those to the marketplace,” Paul says from his
the key to Bravo Company’s unprecedented growth and the
Hartland, Wisconsin, headquarters.
catalyst for the company’s longevity. In a world where the bean counters can sometimes
If the last decade is any indication, we certainly have much to look forward to from Paul and Bravo Company
outweigh the trigger pullers when it comes to mak-
USA. RECOIL sat down with Paul to find out how it all
ing manufacturing decisions, Paul remains strict in his
started and where it’s all going.
What did your military service do for you
part-time gunsmith work, custom gun
in terms of deciding to launch Bravo
building, going to gun shows, giving
Company USA?
product to local police departments
PB: I credit the Marine Corps for help-
and so forth. I got the bright idea in
ing me in just about everything I’ve ever
’03 to push it further and market it
done in my life — no joke. I was 17 and
across the country, so at that point we
impressionable when I enlisted, and the
incorporated under Bravo Company
lessons I learned made a major impact
USA.
on my life. They give you a sense of
RECOIL Magazine: What made you choose Bravo Company USA as your company name? Is there anything behind it? Paul Buffoni: The first company I was in for the U.S. Marine Corps was Bravo Company, back in 1986. Also, my last name is Buffoni, which is B as in Bravo in the NATO military alphabet. And the word generally means “good.” It was a perfect fit for me, but unfortunately, I was only able to serve the Marine Corps for three years in the reserve, which was much shorter than I had hoped. I still gained so much from that experience, and it was life changing for me. What gave you the confidence to create your business? PB: What motivated me was my love and passion for the industry. I figured if I could make a living in this industry and work twice as hard, it would still be as enjoyable as working half the time somewhere else. Our industry is so important; I enjoy doing what I’m doing. It’s not about making my company the biggest one on the marketplace.
I ALWAYS STRESS THE IMPORTANCE OF WHAT WE DO TO OUR EMPLOYEES. WE’RE NOT BUILDING TENNIS RACKETS, WE’RE BUILDING TOOLS THAT CAN SAVE PEOPLE’S LIVES.
character and values, which I have
How did the partnerships with guys
taken with me and applied in countless
like Pat Rogers and Travis Haley come
scenarios. Probably one of the biggest
about?
things I applied to this venture is the
PB: Around 2005 when we first started
mental strength it takes to persevere
building our uppers, Pat was buying
in establishing a business. I had to
them from one of our dealers to use in
have the confidence within myself
his classes. He saw the specs and the
that I could overcome any obstacles
market we were trying to reach out to
that might pop up as I was building
and saw that within that portion of the
the business. I’m very thankful for my
market, there was a deficiency there.
service, and I couldn’t have done a lot
He had been running our stuff indepen-
of this without my Marine values.
dently for a while and was making some positive comments on the Internet
When did you initially form the com-
about the quality of our product. This
pany?
was just general feedback like, “I’ve
PB: It was initially incorporated in
been running this stuff and I recom-
2003, so we’ve grown a lot within the
mend it.” I reached out to him to thank
better part of a decade. It existed, in
him for running our stuff and putting
part, before that because I was doing
his feedback out there.
ALWAYS FAITHFUL
IS SUE 0 8
085
Why do you think these BCM Gunfighters partnerships have been so effective?
upcoming class in Wisconsin coming
PB: I guess one of the frustrations these
up and offered me a slot in the class,
gentlemen and others have expressed
which I of course jumped at. I got to
is that they’d give their feedback to
train with him on the carbine, we got
companies, but the bean counters still
to know each other, and he seemed
determine the outcome. That happens
very interested and willing to provide
sometimes in our industry where the
feedback to give the industry better
trigger pullers give the feedback and
products. His feedback was absolutely
the bean counters call the shots; but
invaluable, so we started working. In
that’s not the way it works at BCM. To
fact, the first BCM Gunfighter Charging
us, feedback is invaluable and if it can
Handle came from a problem identified
be produced within the business model,
by Pat Rogers in the field. Around that
we will do it. Now in 2013, we have a
time, Travis and I had email commu-
number of folks who work with us on
nications and he is one of those guys,
testing and evaluation for the BCM Gun-
like Pat, who always wants to push the
fighters Program. Aside from Pat and
industry forward. He’s also been instru-
Travis, we also are honored to have John
mental in providing us with feedback
Chapman, Kyle Defoor, Ken Hackathorn,
and helping to develop new ideas.
Dave Harrington, Pat McNamara, John
REC O ILW E B .C O M
We had an email conversation going and he mentioned that he had an
ALWAYS FAITHFUL
McPhee, Mike Pannone, and Larry Vickers providing feedback. It’s pretty special for us and we are grateful to be working alongside these guys to provide the highest quality equipment possible. You’re getting some of the best of the best to evaluate every aspect of your products, how has that impacted the company? PB: Every morning I wake up and can’t comprehend how blessed we are to be working with these guys; I can’t even put it into words. I don’t even know how it all came together, it wasn’t preplanned. Quite frankly, it’s an honor to work with them. Cool as shit, too. They have the same motivations and drive that I do in the sense that we want to get quality products into folks’ hands and we want it to be right. Obviously the climate regarding firearms ownership has changed within the past few years. What do you think are our biggest assets in overcoming the threats to the Second Amendment and what do you think are our biggest challenges? PB: There’s a lot to look at. First of all, I think the biggest asset is the fact that the AR-15 is the most popularselling rifle in the country. Because of it, we’re bringing new folks into the firearms industry as a part of our group, and the more people we have in that group, the more power we have politically to preserve the Second Amendment. The biggest challenge I think we face is educating the public at large to
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ALWAYS FAITHFUL understand what we know about using
fishing, hunting, sports shooting, or
weapons for self-defense. If they knew
anything; it has only to do with defend-
what we knew, they would think quite a
ing your life against an aggressor, and I
bit differently because these laws and
think the challenge we face is educat-
regulations being proposed will only
ing the sportsman part of the Second
handicap honest, good people in their
Amendment crowd and the public at
efforts to defend themselves, family,
large about that true meaning of the
and loved ones. Under that challenge,
Second Amendment. It’s being diluted,
you have the fact that the firearms
and the defensive-shooting crowd has
community has two sides: self-defense
to communicate with the sportsman
and hunting/sportsmen. Both of these
crowd to help them recognize that.
types of people train for marksmanship,
This will further gain the solidarity
but there is often very little crossover,
and the understanding that the gun
and I think we should work with the
control movement isn’t about banning
sportsmen to show them how our end
a type of ammo or rifle or model num-
not only protects their end, but our end
ber; it is about rendering the Second
is quite frankly the crux of the Second
Amendment effectively useless. These
Amendment. We hear politicians talking
politicians can do it by dividing and
about their proposals in terms of saying
conquering these two sides of fire-
it won’t affect hunters or the sports-
arms enthusiasts, and that’s exactly
men, but the word “sportsman” as it
what the anti-gun strategy is. They’re
relates to the Second Amendment is an
coming after assault rifles, which are
invalid argument. The Second Amend-
the least commonly used firearms in
ment has nothing to do with camping,
crime. Pretty soon these deer rifles or
hunting rifles will get re-categorized as a “high-power sniper rifles” and then As an avid participant in motocross since the age of 12, Paul enjoys collecting motorcycles and restoring old motocross bikes.
they will start banning those. It’s a slip-
Paul’s motorcycle collection includes: 1953 Harley Davidson Panhead, a rockabilly bobber black with red and cream trim 1975 Harley Davidson Shovelhead, same as Paul’s first Harley purchased in the ’80s 2004 Buell, restored to showroom condition 2012 Harley Davidson Twin Cam Softtail, restored in a WWII style 2012 Harley Davidson Fat Boy, bobbed and chopped 2012 Harley Davidson V-Rod.
Have you ever received direct feedback
pery slope. They can’t really repeal the Second Amendment, but if they can pass enough small laws, they can make it virtually ineffective.
that BCM products have aided someone in the field or in self-defense? PB: Most definitely, and getting a letter with that kind of feedback is the best part of my job. Those letters are the coolest things in the world; one thousand times better than any paycheck or anything. When we get letters like that, I will shut down the entire shop and bring everybody together — from administration to manufacturing and in between — and I will read that letter from beginning to end. Sometimes it chokes you up a little bit because of the magnitude of it. You realize when you’re reading
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ALWAYS FAITHFUL ergonomically and it points well. The larger size sits on my nightstands, the smaller size I carry, and you can interchange the mags. I’m a bigger guy so the double-stack sidearm still conceals very easily on me. I also carry the Walther PPQ — I love that gun. It’s got a phenomenal trigger and serrations on the side and slide; I like how fast the mag release is. It’s the European style and great to train on for speed. I think you can use this faster than the traditional, button-style release. I have a ton of 1911s and I love shooting them, but for everyday carrying I prefer striker-fired. Plus, I don’t want to be carrying a $2,000 gun when a $500 plastic version works just fine [laughs]. They say the best one is the one that works, and that goes for handguns, as well. Of course, I love all platforms. Outside of the AR, one of my favorites is the FN SCAR 17S Heavy. They’re lightweight, accurate, and very high quality; if I could have only one .308, that would be the .308 I would have. What does the future hold for Paul Buffoni and Bravo Company USA? PB: I think one of the biggest focuses for the future is our BCM Gunfighter line. We have a large number of products in development and concept form and some of what we’ve come up with has never been done in the industry. I think some of it is going to be very innovative. The gentleman running that division is Eric Kincel, who I think is one of the brightest minds in the small-arms industry and I feel very fortunate to be it that it’s not just a letter of someone
to remind us of guys running our stuff
working with him. He’s responsible for
appreciating something; it’s someone
and what’s at stake, so our quality of
a dozen-plus patents and understands
saying that we had a hand in saving
work can always remain paramount.
small arms from the contemporary perspective and, even more importantly,
theirs or someone else’s life against evil and aggression. After I read the letter, I
What do you run as your everyday carry?
from a historical perspective. You have
will thank my team for working as hard
PB: I’m big on striker-fired 9mm, and
to constantly be thinking outside the
as they do and remind them that our
I have a few that I go back and forth
box in our industry to fill the voids that
products have a greater purpose. That
with. I like the Smith and Wesson
are out there, and we are willing to do
their hard work is not in vain. You’ll see
M&P double-stacks and the Walther
whatever it takes to add value to the
pictures and banners up in our facility
PPQ. The M&P is very comfortable
community.
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ALWAYS FAITHFUL
THIS INDUSTRY HAS A MORAL COMPONENT TO IT WHERE INSTRUCTORS CAN PUT A PRODUCT IN FRONT OF THEIR STUDENTS THAT CAN PROTECT THEM IF THEY ARE IN HARM’S WAY. TO GET THOSE INSTRUCTORS AND SERVICEMEN AND WOMEN TO WORK WITH US AND RECEIVE THEIR HONOR AND RESPECT IS SOMETHING YOU JUST CAN’T BUY.
VINTAGE RESTORATION
When handling firearms, always observe safety rules and the precautions set forth in the firearm’s owner’s guide. Be certain that your firearm is unloaded and made safe before proceeding with this DIY.
THE 1911 MAY SEEM INTIMIDATING AT FIRST, BUT FOLLOW THIS STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE AND YOU CAN BUILD ONE FROM SCRATCH
BY RECOIL STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY Z. DE KUYPER PRESENTED BY
Compared to a Glock or M&P, the 16
venerable 1911 is decidedly old-school when it comes to assembly. Looking at
1
the designs side by side, it’s easy to see
2
where progress has been made in the
3
last 100 years — with the help of mod-
4
ern materials and technologies, there’s
5
been a ton of effort made to simplify
6 7
both the manufacturing process and
8
human interface with the weapon,
9
whether shooting or stripping it. That said, for a century-old design, the 1911 is pretty straightforward once
10
11
Trigger - STI standard Trigger - 1911 Standard Sear Spring Mainspring Housing Grip Safety Manual Safety Hammer Pin Sear Pin Slide Stop Plunger, Plunger Spring, and Manual Safety Detent Mainspring Housing Pin
12 13 14 15
16
Hammer Disconnector Sear Magazine Catch Retainer Magazine Catch Retainer Spring Mag Catch STI Standard
you get the hang of it. Don’t try to rush the process. Do work through it slowly 7
and methodically. If you follow these
10
instructions, you can turn a small pile of
11
6
parts into a functioning firearm in about 10 minutes. For most stages of reas-
8
sembly, we find it best to group parts together in pairs. We have no idea if that was John Moses Browning’s inten-
9
tion, but it seems to work pretty well. 4
Note: This process works for both an existing 1911 that you may be upgrad-
14
ing, or a bare 2011 frame, such as the one we’re building here. Disassembly is
5 12
simply the reverse of the steps shown,
3
13
15
so don’t be afraid to follow it in order to detail your gun every few thousand rounds, particularly if you’re shooting lead bullets. 1
2
STEP 1: FIT THE TRIGGER AND MAG CATCH 1
In a standard 1911, the trigger is retained by the magazine catch, so these two parts are typically grouped together. The mag catch is one of the easiest parts to screw up, as it’s retained by a little shaft with an ear on it that is prone to shear if you get too ham-fisted with it. So don’t. The trick is to press the magazine catch button in while gently applying torque to the retainer until it turns into the locking slot.
2
In the case of a 2011, the trigger is retained by the grip. To get to it, remove the upper grip screws and the sleeve at the front of the trigger guard, pop out the grip bushings, and separate the grip from the steel receiver.
don’t apply excessive torque with the screwdriver.
3. Slightly depress the mag catch while applying torque. The mag catch retainer will then rotate into its notch in the frame.
3
TWEAK: Using a Dremel and felt bob with polishing paste, buff the back of the trigger bow where it contacts the disconnector.
095 REC O ILW E B .C O M
2. Insert magazine catch from the right side.
0 8
shown here in its locked position. Make sure you
IS SUE
1. Magazine catch is retained by the tiny ear
PRESENTED BY
VINTAGE RESTORATION
STEP 2: SEAR AND DISCONNECTOR Assemble the sear and disconnector as shown in the photo. Slip the assem-
1. Disconnector and sear shown in their proper orientation.
bly into the frame so that the tip of the disconnector sticks up a little and the
2. Disconnector and sear in place in the frame.
flat surface is in contact with the back
Note flat surface in contact with back of trigger
of the trigger bow. Press in the sear
bow and sear pin about to be pressed home.
pin from the left of the frame (you may have to wiggle the sear and disconnector in order to line up the holes).
1
2
TWEAK: Polish the tab at the bottom of the disconnector, where it touches the trigger bow, and the top, where it passes into the frame. If you want to get serious, polish the frame hole, too. This will eliminate almost all grittiness in the trigger pull.
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PRESENTED BY
VINTAGE RESTORATION
STEP 3: HAMMER AND SEAR SPRING Drop the hammer into the frame and press the hammer pin in from the left
1. Hammer is placed into frame and pin inserted from left of frame.
The spring has three legs. You can adjust tension on
of the frame to secure it. Note that the sear pin that you installed in the previ-
2. Lift hammer strut out of the way, then place the
ous step will want to drop out if you
sear spring tab into the notch cut in the lower part
turn the frame over, so try to assemble
of the frame.
the trigger by slightly bending the left (sear) leg. Be extremely careful when doing this and do not go too light, as an unsafe condition may result. If you make any changes to the sear spring at all, make sure you
everything without laying the left side
religiously follow the pre-flight check at the end of this
down. Lift up the hammer strut and
article. Test fire the pistol with only one round in the
drop the sear spring into position with
magazine until you have established that it functions
the little tab engaging in the frame
as intended. Do not lighten the middle leg, as this can
notch.
1
TWEAK:
cause the hammer to follow and ruin your sear.
2
PRESENTED BY
VINTAGE RESTORATION
STEP 4: MAINSPRING HOUSING AND GRIP SAFETY Here’s where things get a little fiddly. Slide the mainspring
1 & 2. Slide the mainspring housing into place
housing (MSH) into the slot in the back of the frame, up to
and make sure the hammer strut is sitting in the
where the end of the hammer strut just engages in the cup-
little cup on top of the mainspring cap, as shown.
like mainspring cap. Now drop the grip safety into position, pressing it against the sear spring so that the little tab at the
3. Drop the grip safety into place, then slide the
bottom of the grip safety clears the top of the MSH, then
mainspring housing home.
push the MSH the last 1â „16 inch or so until it bottoms out. The mainspring may become slightly compressed at this point,
4. Press the mainspring housing pin through the
and you might feel like you need three hands as you need to
frame.
keep tension on it as you press the MSH retaining pin through the frame. Stick with it.
1
3
2
4
PRESENTED BY
VINTAGE RESTORATION
STEP 5: MANUAL SAFETY AND DETENT Insert the manual safety detent assembly into the plunger tube, small end first. Cock the hammer. (Note: do not dry fire the gun at this stage, as damage to the fire
1 . For a 2011 with an ambi safety, install the right side first.
control components may result.) Press in the grip safety so that the hole through it lines up with the frame, then push the pin at the back of the manual safety through
2 & 3. Then insert the left side, depress the
this hole. At this point, the safety won’t go completely in, as the detent plunger is
detent plunger with a small punch, and push the
sticking out. Using a small punch, push the detent plunger into the plunger tube
manual safety all the way in.
and press the manual safety home. Note for ambi safeties: if you have a 2011, the right side goes in first, followed by the left side. In a conventional 1911, this order is reversed — secure it by attaching the grip panels and you’re done.
1
2
3
STEP 6: SAFETY AND FUNCTION CHECK You can use this pre-flight check when inspecting a new gun, or after you’ve done any work on your existing 1911. Again, if the slide is not installed, don’t dry-fire the gun — catch the hammer with your free hand as it slips off the sear
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so that it doesn’t make an expensive “click” sound as it
COMPONENTS
slams against the frame, or worse, the half-cock notch. After clearing the weapon, leave the hammer cocked. Without activating the grip safety, and with the manual safety disengaged, attempt to activate the trigger. If the hammer doesn’t fall, congratulations — your grip safety works. Now engage the manual safety and press in the grip safety. Once again, try the trigger. The manual safety should prevent the gun from firing. If both safeties work as they’re intended, with the pistol completely assembled and pointing in a safe direction, take the gun in a firing grip, disengage the thumb safety and press the trigger. The hammer should fall. Keep the trigger pinned to the rear and vigorously rack the slide. The hammer should stay cocked. If the gun passes these three tests, you can now take it to the range and test it with live ammo.
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THINK OWNING A GUN IS ENOUGH PROTECTION? THINK AGAIN. YOUR HOME IS YOUR CASTLE, SO HARDEN IT WITH THESE ADDITIONAL COMMON-SENSE SECURITY MEASURES.
little pool of slobber on your pillow, when you’re awakened by a window being smashed. Is it a burglar? Or, worse, a home What do you do?! Finding the typical “get a gun and learn how to use it” advice woefully inadequate, RECOIL interviewed some of the industry’s most experienced security experts in search of a more comprehensive home-defense plan. We learned that you don’t need to install a moat around your property or a .50 BMG turret on your roof — but you do need a proactive mindset. “A homeowner’s biggest mistake is saying, ‘I live in a good neighborhood. It won’t happen here,’” says Kris Sutton, cofounder of and firearms instructor at Shoot and Move, LLC. “Newsflash: criminals aren’t going to steal from places that offer them nothing to gain. Complacency is a huge mistake.” After serving as a U.S. Army Ranger, Sutton became a police officer in the greater Atlanta, Georgia, area, working various assignments that included SWAT and undercover narcotics. As a former lieutenant, Sutton says that burglaries are crimes of opportunity, committed by crooks who seek easy prey. Home-invasion robbers, on the other hand, select their victims in advance. In either case, taking some common-sense precautions can go a long way in making your dwelling a hard target for either bad guy.
105 REC O ILW E B .C O M
invasion by an armed robber — or three? What do you do?
0 8
Pop quiz, hot shot: You’re in deep REM sleep, making a nice
IS SUE
BY PATRICK VUONG ILLUSTRATION BY CED NOCON
THE CRIMINAL MIND Before you can harden your home, you must understand how a criminal thinks. Let’s start by peering into the mind of a burglar. “Most burglars decide in a few seconds whether to hit a
An open garage door rolls out the welcome mat for burglars, and if your car is parked in the driveway, it’s easy to break in and grab the garage opener. Install a wall console with a security switch that can disable remotes and keypads.
particular place or move on,” says Mark Sundermeier, former deputy chief of the Omaha Police Department and now director of operations for Clark International, which provides everything from security consulting and executive protection to tactical training and investigations. He has been in law enforcement since 1983 and has conducted plenty of in-prison interviews with convicted thieves, finding that burglars will typically:
Be empty-handed: They don’t want to be charged with possession of burglary tools, so they’ll often force entry with their hands and feet or with objects found on a property.
Operate from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.: They work roughly the same hours you do to avoid a fight.
Look for unoccupied homes: See above.
IS SU E
0 8
Approach the front door:
REC O ILW E B .C O M
106
It’s a lot harder to explain away their presence if they’re caught in the backyard or climbing through a side window.
FIRST LINE OF DEFENSE Hardening your home isn’t as difficult
Head straight for the master bedroom:
or expensive as it sounds. In fact, a trip
They know that’s where you’re hiding your money, jewelry, and firearms.
to Home Depot could take care of many
Need six minutes: Burglars can escape with your goods in the amount of time it takes you to get a Starbucks latte.
of the security measures recommended by our panel of experts. Mike Pannone, a world-renowned firearms instructor and owner of CTT Solutions, says that many humble abodes are soft targets because of a confluence of obvious weaknesses that people fail to address, from flimsy doors to poor lighting. The following are some basic steps that address those common flaws and can make a big difference in hardening your home: Tidy your yards: A clean yard gives you and your neighbors an unobstructed view of your property. If you buy high-dollar items, like big-screen TVs, break down the empty boxes rather than having them stick out of your recycle bins — otherwise you’re
Meanwhile, the home-invasion robber is a predator of a different stripe, according to Rick Schuck, and counterterrorism. “Home invasions are usually violent and occur when people are home,” says Schuck, now head of GOAT Security Consulting, Inc. “The victims are targeted prior to the attack due to their occupation or because of their recent activities, such as carrying or spending a lot of cash.” These thugs know what they want and don’t mind getting their hands dirty to get it.
your mail and newspapers regularly to show signs of occupancy. Install floodlights: Intruders hate good outdoor lighting (especially with motion detectors). Make sure they can’t be messed with. “If you can easily reach
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a retired U.S. Army sergeant major with two decades of special operations experience in direct action
publicizing your valuables. Also, collect
SAFE HOUSE Lock your doors and windows: Don’t be an idiot — use your locks. “Homeowners should not think that a second-
burglars,” Schuck warns. Trim shrubs near windows: Bad guys love to be able to hide behind foliage while breaking in. Plant “unfriendly” bushes: But bad
target,” Sutton says. You can reinforce
might think a sign that says, ‘Don’t
your entranceways with affordable op-
worry about the dog, worry about the
tions, such as installing security latches
owner’ with a picture of a gun is a
inside your doors and putting a piece of
deterrent. The burglar looks at that
wood in the track of your sliding patio
and knows what’s inside. So be careful
door.
about the unintended messages.” When you’re not home, don’t let crimi-
allow you to get an outside breeze
nals go window shopping.
Install solid-core doors with peepholes and deadbolt locks: This setup deters some burglars while letting you see the ¾-inch screws that came with your hinges and replace them with at least 1-inch screws — preferably use fasteners that will reach all the way into the studs behind the doorframe. Install heavy doorframes with kick plates: “One professional burglar pretended he had a tree service,” Sundermeier says. “Sometimes he would see someone next door and wave. When they looked away, he would kick the door. One or two kicks was all it usually took — if the door was even locked.” The weakest point of any entryway is typically the doorjamb, where it’s cut for the strike plate. You can reinforce this area with a stronger, larger strike plate, or at minimum, run 3-inch-long screws at a slight angle into the studs. Doorjambs that brace against the doorknob are an economical means to prevent intruders from kicking in your door.
Having home security measures like locks and an alarm system is one thing, but they’re useless if you don’t engage them before leaving the house.
Get a security system: For some crooks, a monitored alarm system is too much
Close your garage door: An open
work. Just posting a sign from a nation-
garage is a gateway to the rest of the
ally known company can sometimes do
house. About 25 percent of the burglar-
the trick.
ies in Sundermeier’s precinct happened
Own a dog: It doesn’t need to be a
because garage doors were left open,
huge mastiff (see Page 112 for more
he says.
on home-defense canines); barking
Don’t park your car in the driveway:
alone could dissuade some would-be
Thieves can easily break into your car
intruders. A large dog bowl and muti-
and take the garage opener. Some
lated chew toy could also act as visual
garage door systems allow you to flip
deterrents.
107 REC O ILW E B .C O M
outside before opening up. Replace
When you’re not home, keep your blinds and curtains closed so burglars can’t go window shopping.
ing security.
0 8
plants.
Keep your shades or blinds closed:
windows: The metal versions with locks
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guys hate crawling through thorny
Don’t advertise: “Burglars absolutely love guns,” Sundermeier says. “You
through your home without compromisIncrease the layers of your home defense with inexpensive additions, such as security latches.
remotes and keypads.
story window left unsecured is not a
Install security screen doors and
the light bulbs, so too can potential
a switch on the wall console to disable
HOME-INVASION RESISTANCE Don’t be low-hanging fruit for hungry robbers. Because home-invasion victims are usually chosen long before they’ve gotten home and locked the doors, here are some preemptive steps you can take: Be observant: “Scan and assess” is a mantra that doesn’t stop at the gun range exit. “Be vigilant and aware, not paranoid,” Pannone says. Do not assume that you’re safe simply because you live in an upscale neighborhood — that’s exactly where “criminals go to find nice things and unsuspecting people.” Make friends: Sutton encourages you to participate in neighborhood watch programs and get to know your neighbors, who can become great allies in sharing valuable information and keeping your community safe. Don’t be a baller: Flashing fat stacks and Rolexes might attract the ladies, but it could also invite some unwanted house guests — of the felonious
You can add a 3M Safety and Security Window Film to prevent burglars or natural disasters from shattering your windows. Photo courtesy of 3M.
variety. Change it up: Adjust your daily routine by traveling different routes, leaving and arriving at different times, and varying your entry and exit points. Follow your gut: “Everyone should trust their intuition,” Schuck says. “If
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something doesn’t feel right, take appropriate actions.” For example, if a
REC O ILW E B .C O M
108
ADVANCED SECURITY MEASURES More advanced (and expensive) op-
car seems to be following you home, call the police or drive to the nearest
tions are available for adding layers of
police station.
protection, according to our panel of
Live clean: This goes without saying, but avoid drugs, gambling, and prostitution. “Do honest law-abiding citizens become victims of home invasions?
experts: Add bars to your windows: There are
Without a doubt, yes,” Sundermeier says. “Having said that, we frequently
models that can be ejected only from
see a long delay between the incident and the police report, because the
the inside in case of emergency.
victims have some cleaning up to do.”
Apply security window film: Don’t like the prison-bar aesthetic? Try adding something like 3M Safety and Security Window Films, which are made of dozens, sometimes hundreds, of tear-resistant micro-layers that prevent glass from shattering. “The film consists of polyester (or some variation thereof) and an adhesive that bonds to the glass,” says Paul Neumann, a 3M technical service specialist. “When the glass breaks, the adhesive and film keep the glass fragments in place.” While this doesn’t make the glass bulletproof, the film does act as a deterrent and slows down intruders significantly. security system with cameras is a deterrent because crooks don’t like being recorded. Our experts suggest getting a system that sends you alerts and lets you monitor the surveillance feed on your mobile devices and computers.
edel-fotografie/istockphoto.com
Install video cameras: A monitored
SAFE HOUSE Erect walls and fencing: “Obviously,
in your residence that you can defend.
says he’s seen more than his fair share
creating a walled compound with armed
Pannone suggests these general guide-
of concerned homeowners who are
guards is impractical,” Schuck says.
lines for your action plan:
gung-ho about learning how to use a
“However, walls and fencing can make
1. Gather the family to the pre-desig-
gun…only to turn ghost-white once he
accessing a yard more challenging.”
nated safe area.
starts explaining how to aim rounds to
He stresses, though, that they must be
2. Access a firearm and a light you’re
disrupt a bad guy’s nerves, blood flow,
placed strategically or they’ll provide
capable and confident with.
and musculoskeletal system and that a
concealment for bad guys.
3. Dial 911 using a mobile phone (so
$1-million umbrella liability insurance
you can still call even if phone lines are
policy is recommended because civil
Mr. Moneybags? Then Sutton recom-
disabled) and give information in this
lawsuits are the norm after a shooting.
mends you install a true panic room
sequence:
Set up a panic room: Flush with cash,
“If you are willing to invest in the right equipment, train regularly, and
that has a protective shell with firewalls, a clean source of oxygen, a gun safe
Name: Who you are and who is with you.
have the right mindset, then employing a firearm defensively is appropriate,”
stocked with ammunition and supplies, a dedicated communications link to contact law enforcement, and a set of moni-
Location: Say your complete address, even if the operator
someone,’ then don’t bet that a gun will
can track your location.
be a deterrent you can wave around.
tors connected to the aforementioned camera-equipped security system.
Situation: Explain what you’re up against. For example, say, “There is an intruder in my home, and I am in fear for
FIRE(ARM) DRILL Let’s say, despite your best efforts, a
am armed.”
it and see what it is like in the dark with all the family members involved,”
my gun,’ but those same people fail to
Pannone says. “Time the execution and
plan how they would access a firearm in
see how long it takes to get everyone
a stressful, dynamic situation,” Schuck
in the safe room. Access your firearm,
warns. You should secure your firearm in
simulate dialing 911, and actually say
a quick-access safe that’s easy to open.
what you plan to say. If you do that, you
But at the same time, grabbing your gun
will have the best chance of properly
swiftly doesn’t mean you go hunting for
and effectively executing the action
bad guys in the night.
plan and remember what to say in the event of an emergency.”
to go up against the baddest of bad
GunVault www.gunvault.com Mike Pannone CTT Solutions www.ctt-solutions.com Photo by Shinnosuke Tanaka
Rick Schuck GOAT Security Consulting, Inc. www.goatsecurity.com Photo by Rick Schuck
Naturally, every plan will vary slightly, depending on you, your residence, and
looking for the intruder is not a good
your circumstances. “If you live in an
idea. Instead, his “avoid, evade, and
apartment, condo, or townhome, are
defend as a last resort” concept, which
the rounds being deployed in the direc-
he preaches in his covert carry classes,
tion of your neighbors?” Sutton asks.
applies to home invasions. (For more
“If you live in a multi-story home, you
info on his CCW techniques, go to page
can stay at the top of the stairs and
120.) Unless you have an opportunity
hold the high ground as a tactical ad-
to flee, you can’t avoid intruders during
vantage to protect you and your family.”
should evade them by going to a place
3M Window Films www.3m.com
PULLING THE TRIGGER
Special Forces, and Delta — says that
a home invasion, so you and your family
SOURCES
There are also the psychological and legal factors to consider. Sundermeier
Mark Sundermeier Clark International www.ciprotect.com Photo by Mark Sundermeier
Kris Sutton Shoot and Move, LLC www.shootandmove.org Photo by Kris Sutton
109 REC O ILW E B .C O M
someone breaks into my home, I’ll get
the U.S. Marine Reconnaissance, Army
ated and practiced your plan? Are you
0 8
“Don’t just talk about it; actually do
guys as a former operational member of
So are you committed? Have you creIS SUE
rehearse, then rinse and repeat. Often.
truly ready?
Pannone — who knows what it’s like
firearm, commit fully to that plan.”
ready to do what you have to do? With this template, you should
protecting you and your family. Are you “Too many times I hear people say, ‘If
If you decide home defense calls for a
my life. I’m upstairs with my wife and two children, and I
very cunning intruder has slipped past your defenses and you’re faced with
he says. “If you will ‘never, ever, shoot
SAFE HOUSE
QUICK-ACCESS
SAFES
“I don’t use gun safes with keys, combinations, or number pads because, in a stressful situation, they are harder to manipulate, making it slower to access my firearm,” Sutton says.
intruder is right around the corner. GunVault offers various
LOCKING SYSTEM:
— some that can memorize up to 120 fingerprints and some
of children and unauthorized adults, but also open quickly
that can accept two or three different swipes. Also, the bio-
18-gauge steel
when SHTF.
metric GunVaults will update your fingerprint scan every time
portable, comes with a 4-foot, 1,500-poundrated security cable
Key
MATERIALS:
KEY FEATURES:
years due to injuries or just plain old aging.
firearm. There are safes for dresser drawers, some that bolt under desks, and others that can be hidden in walls. And
2
SETUP
LOCKING SYSTEM:
Once you’ve selected a location or locations and purchased the appropriate safe, you’ll need to prepare it for maximum
selection will depend on your needs, your family, and your
efficiency.
Biometric fingerprint scanner MATERIALS:
18-gauge steel KEY FEATURES:
Our experts suggest that the lockbox should also have
“A firearm in the home provides us no protection if it’s not
extra ammunition. If you have multiple firearms in various
accessible,” says Kris Sutton, co-founder of Shoot and Move,
safes throughout the home, you should avoid confusion and
LLC, and a former Army Ranger and police lieutenant. Be-
store them all in the same condition that’s best for you (e.g.
cause he has no children in his home and his wife is trained,
all of them loaded with the safety engaged). Sutton also
he keeps a firearm on his nightstand while he sleeps then has
recommends you store a flashlight in the safe if your firearm
it stored within arm’s reach during the day.
doesn’t have a weapons-mounted light.
Drop-down drawer, mountable, holds up to 120 fingerprints, LED low-battery warning, backup override key 3
Mike Pannone, former Delta operator, renowned firearms
MODEL:
SpeedVault 500
you can install several in different parts of your home. Your state’s laws.
0 8
MODEL:
strategy. It must not only keep the gun out of the hands
Before you select a safe, determine where you’ll store your
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1
NanoVault 200
types of safes, but are best known for its biometric models
you use it, Murena says, because your fingers change over the
REC O ILW E B .C O M
www.gunvault.com
saying you don’t want to be fumbling with the lock while an
A quick-access safe is a vital component of a home-defense
LOCATION
110
GunVault
GunVault marketing manager Pasquale Murena agrees,
Like any other aspect of firearms, planning and practice is
instructor, and owner of CTT Solutions, advises his students to
key. Our experts instruct their students and clients to regu-
place their defensive firearms in a quick-access, compact safe
larly practice grabbing their firearm from the safe to condition
that’s readily accessible, but not visible to someone unfamiliar
themselves. “You practice with your gun at the range, so why
to your home. He recommends the same setup for the desig-
don’t you practice opening your safe?” Murena says. “If you
nated safe room where you’ll go in case of an emergency.
can’t open your safe, you can’t defend yourself.”
LOCKS
MODEL:
DrawerVault GV 3000 LOCKING SYSTEM:
Digital keypad
MATERIALS:
18-gauge steel KEY FEATURES:
mountable, large enough to hold a pistol and other small valuables, more than 12 million available access codes, LED low-battery warning, backup override key
1
With advancements in technology, there are near limitless options for safes. However, you can narrow down the search based on three general types: MECHANICAL Working off traditional locking mechanisms, these safes work with a key, a set of buttons, or a combination dial.
DIGITAL These electronic versions require a code to be punched into a keypad.
BIOMETRIC Also electronic, these safes are unlocked by scanning your fingerprints or palm-prints. They usually have a key as a backup in case the batteries run out.
2
The debate about the best quick-access safe comes down to personal choice. Some prefer mechanical locks that don’t require memorization of complex codes or the use of a fingerprint, fearing that biometric technologies might fail when most needed. Pannone recommends keypad-type compact safes from companies like GunVault, while Sutton advocates biometric safes.
3
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112
CAN A SPECIALLY TRAINED DOG PROVIDE MORE RELIABLE SECURITY THAN AN ALARM SYSTEM AND FASTER DEFENSE THAN A FIREARM? BY PATRICK VUONG PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY Z. DE KUYPER
History has shown that there are three
security, executive protection, police
gun is the be-all-end-all of personal se-
things that man loves most in life: a
units, and the military. “But a highly
curity? Then you’d be wrong, says Wade
good woman, a loaded firearm, and a
trained German Shepherd has been a
Morrell of Priority 1 Canine. Prior to
loyal dog. And not necessarily in that
proven security addition to personal
starting his dog training and consulting
order. While all three can provide much
protection for more than 100 years.”
business, he worked as a police officer
comfort and joy, only one of those
RECOIL is taking an in-depth look
in Ohio for more than a dozen years
cherished necessities is guaranteed to
at how to harden your home (see page
and investigated hundreds of burglaries
be fighting by your side to the death …
104 for more). As part of this, we con-
committed at homes with computer-
and we’re not talking about the one that
sulted with numerous subject-matter
ized security systems. Yet, he had dealt
can run out of ammo or run off with
experts (SMEs) who all agreed that a
with just one home burglary where the
another guy.
dog can play a significant role in your
owner had a dog … and had been put
home-defense strategy. While a canine
in a kennel in a back room.
A well-trained dog can not only be a devoted family member, but also a
might not be practical or possible for
criminal deterrent, a reliable and keen
everyone (who knows, you might prefer
home for an intrusion,” Morrell asks.
alarm system, and a first line of home
*shudder* cats), a dog can certainly be
“Of course everyone says, ‘Well I would
defense. In fact, most experts say
a deterrent, alarm system, bodyguard,
just get my gun and shoot them.’ But
that a canine can detect and engage a
and weapon all rolled up into one furry,
what about the guy who is a heavy
threat long before you’ve even woken
muscular package.
sleeper? Or the woman who is in the shower getting ready for bed and didn’t
from your nightly coma — let alone stumbled to your gun safe. “Alarms systems can be circumvent-
“Say someone has targeted your
ALERT, ASSESS, ATTACK Not convinced that a four-legged
hear the intruder gain access?” A canine can provide sophisticated
ed and the police are not always there
friend is a good supplement to your
overwatch without ever having to leave
to protect you,” says CQB K-9 owner
home-defense strategy? Think that an
your property, thanks in part to its
Alex Dunbar, who trains dogs for family
alarm system is sufficient or that your
astounding senses of smell and hearing,
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113 REC O ILW E B .C O M
Would you rather face the muzzle of a 12-gauge or this growling bouquet of teeth?
dogs are capable of making their own
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A highly trained homedefense canine can serve as a deterrent, an alarm system, and a weapon, in addition to being a loving member of the family.
REC O ILW E B .C O M
114
says Leighton Oosthuisen, founder and
more mobility with their ears,” says
training director of Partners Working
Morrell, who’s appeared on Nat Geo
Dogs in Arizona. A pooch’s nose is far
Wild’s Alpha Dogs TV show. “And their
more powerful than ours by orders of
ear shape allows them to maximize
magnitude — at least 10,000 times
their hearing. This ability allows dogs to
more acute, according to scientists. So
alert their owners to a possible threat
detecting a home intruder is nothing for
by hearing it way before our human
an animal that can sniff out contraband
ears can.”
at border crossings, find people trapped
Dogs are also incredibly intelligent
underneath rubble after a disaster, and
animals, and a highly trained personal
even smell cancer on the breath of
protection canine can assess a situation
patients, according to one 2006 study.
in a flash. “They are always around
Man’s best friend also has superior hearing due to its anatomy. “Dogs have
and unaffected by emotions or smooth talk,” says Oosthuisen. “Well-trained
RECOIL has never been one to sit on the sidelines and just observe — participatory journalism is our thing. So Editor Iain Harrison jumped at the chance to play the part of an armed intruder (with a training pistol) against Ludwig, a Belgian Malinois trained by Leighton Oosthuisen of Partners Working Dogs. “When Ludwig latched onto my wrist and hand, it felt as if someone had grabbed me with a pair of Vise-Grips and was trying to pull my arm out of its socket,” Iain said. “The pain was pretty intense, even though I was wearing the heaviest bite suit available. And this is a dog that has lost a good bit of his dentition through chewing rocks.” Way to take one for the team, boss!
decisions, and while they are capable of severely hurting an intruder, they are a non-lethal use of force.” Armed with big paws, powerful legs, and a mouth full of teeth, a 75-pound dog has explosive speed and immense bite strength. Dogs are capable of speeds of 35 mph and can run 100 yards in six seconds, Oosthuisen says. And their pearly whites can tear flesh and crush bones. According to National Geographic, some breeds are capable of more than 300 PSI of pressure per bite. “A trained canine with titanium teeth biting you is like having a chainsaw rip into you,” Dunbar says.
TACTICAL ADVANTAGE “Dogs have been serving man and proving their worthiness in a security role as far back as 600 B.C.,” Morrell says. “It’s well-documented that elite ancient armies, such as the Greeks and Romans, used dogs on patrols and as sentry dogs during wartime.” That tradition continues to this day, with the most publicized example being the fourlegged warrior that assisted the SEALs in DEVGRU during the raid that killed Osama bin Laden.
When your life’s in danger and it’s go time, a canine can give you that needed edge. “A canine will buy you time,” says Dunbar, a former Force Recon Marine
1 Imagine having 75 pounds of fur, teeth, and muscle flying toward you at 35 mph.
who started CQB K-9 in 1986. “And having been in real world close-quarter battle situations, a quarter of a second is all you have sometimes.” Oosthuisen, who also holds a master rank with the USPSA as a practical pistol shooter, says a trained dog will be all over an armed intruder — most likely before he can fire his weapon. They’re trained to attack at lightning speed, clamp down with their teeth, and twist their body to take down an intruder, giving you valuable time to escape and call 911. Oosthuisen puts it this way: “If you have a 75-pound dog hanging off your leg, arm, or privates, you’ll have little time or interest in shooting
IF YOU HAVE A 75-POUND DOG HANGING OFF YOUR LEG, ARM, OR PRIVATES, YOU’LL HAVE LITTLE TIME OR INTEREST IN SHOOTING THE HOMEOWNER.
the homeowner.” His dogs are also trained to bite low, so if by some miracle the bad guy’s still standing and threatening your life, you can aim for center mass without hitting your dog. On that note, our experts acclimate their puppies to the sound of gunfire throughout their year to two years of training, preparing them for the most dire situations.
2
2 Protection dogs are trained to attack low, so that you can still aim for the bad guy’s center mass if your life is still in danger.
1
LIKE A HAIRY HOLLOW POINT 1
1 Morrell, a former U.S. Marine and police officer, trains dogs for home defense, executive protection, and work in police and military units, among other purposes. Photo courtesy of Wade Morrell.
Oosthuisen specifically looks at five attributes when selecting a dog for
location gives him the ability to train
training: drive, courage, social skills,
for a variety of environments, thanks to
trainability, and willingness to please.
the Centennial State’s sunny summers,
While all of them are critical, he says,
subzero winters, eastern plains, south-
trainability is the most difficult attribute
ern sand dunes, Colorado River, Rocky
to evaluate and the lack thereof often
Mountains, and large metropolitan
leads to dogs failing the program. “It’s
areas. He can take a canine up 14,000
like trying to teach someone to shoot
feet above sea level one hour then train
who just doesn’t have the motivation to
inside a hotel as a service dog the next,
learn,” Oosthuisen says.
depending on the needs of his client.
The puppies begin bowwow boot
as possible,” Dunbar says, “and a little
takes up to two years of intense training
bit hard.” He trains a maximum of two
before they graduate and go home with
puppies at any one time and does so
their new owners.
with the latest techniques and technol-
acre, off-grid ranch in Colorado, where
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While our panel of experts can
REC O ILW E B .C O M
116
certainly teach your family pet a few tactical tricks, you won’t be able to turn aging Buster into a switched-on guard dog. “We often get calls from people who went to a pet store or local breeder and purchased a German Shepherd with the intent of having it trained for home defense,” Morrell says. “Unfortunately it’s not that easy. It takes a certain dog with the proper drive and characteristics
Leighton Oosthuisen is an animal behaviorist who’s trained more than 25,000 dogs. Prior to becoming the founder and training director of Partners Working Dogs in Arizona, he trained and handled dogs for tracking, bomb detection, and narcotic detections in the South African military. 2
2
tion dog that can travel on jets or RVs. And sometimes it’s a special unit in the military or law enforcement that needs a specialized dog, training, or consultation Once a mission has been determined, the trainers handpick specific four-legged personnel while they’re still puppies in kennels they own or from vetted breeders in Europe. Our SMEs select dogs that have a healthy blend of strength and smarts.
In Arizona, Oosthuisen trains his
also licensed by the ATF and DEA to use explosives and narcotics for canine training. His pups respond to commands in Czech, Dutch, French, and German in addition to English. “Part of this is to prevent the general public and specifically bad guys from knowing what we are cueing the dog to do,” he says. “We also don’t want to accidentally trigger an action by speaking a word that sounds like a command.”
why a dog is needed and how it’ll be
celebrity who needs a personal protec-
for nocturnal sessions.
obstacle courses, and buildings. He’s
views with potential clients to determine
family pet to help defend her home, or a
mor to infrared and night-vision goggles
foot facility and on 10 acres of fields,
Instead, trainers do extensive inter-
client could be a mother who wants a
ogy — from his proprietary canine ar-
four-legged students in a 7,000-square-
to become a home defense canine.”
integrated into everyday life. Their
“We want to make things as realistic
camp at a very early age and it usually
Dunbar operates CQB K-9 on a 320-
WARRIORS IN TRAINING
he lives with and trains his dogs. This
Living off-grid in Colorado, Alex Dunbar of CQB K-9 is within a car ride of plains, rivers, cities, sand dunes, and mountains — giving his dogs realistic training for whatever their life’s purpose is. Photo courtesy of GlynnPhoto. 3
3
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LIKE A HAIRY HOLLOW POINT The German Shepherd is one of three breeds predominantly used as protection dogs. The Belgian Malinois and the Dutch Shepherd are the other two. Photo courtesy of GlynnPhoto.
BREEDING WARRIORS A highly trained protection dog can start as high as $8,000 and skyrocket up to $50,000. Military working dogs come with a hefty $75,000 price tag. So it’s not like you can go to your local PetSmart, buy a Dachshund, hand it off to a trainer, and expect a fourlegged terminator to return in a few weeks. In fact, our panel of canine experts only works with certain types of dogs that are born and bred for their specific life mission, whether it be home protection,
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police detection, or Special Mission Unit operations. Our SMEs agree that while the ca-
follow-up training after purchase
nines must undergo and pass intense
to ensure that not only is the dog
conditioning to become a protection
performing without issue, but also
dog, they must also be just as social
that the owners are properly caring
and obedient as a typical family pet.
for and handling the canine. Doing
That’s why every dog Morrell sells
so ensures that when all hell breaks
must live with him, his wife, and his
loose, your four-legged friend will
two children during the final training
have probably detected, engaged,
phase.
and taken down an intruder long
“One misconception is that a trained bite dog runs around biting
before you’ve retrieved your gun. By no means are we advocating
Here’s a look at the breeds they prefer to train:
TRAINER:
Alex Dunbar COMPANY:
CQB K-9
LOCATION:
TRAINER:
Wade Morrell COMPANY:
Priority 1 Canine LOCATION:
everyone it sees. This is very far
you sell your firearms to acquire a
Off-grid in Colorado
from reality,” Morrell says. “Properly
protection dog. But if you’re thinking
www.cqbk9.com
www.priority1canine.com
trained dogs know when to bite and
about an addition to the family, why
how to bite, and bite out of confi-
not consider the enormous advan-
dence rather than fear. Think of a
tages one offers? Having firearms
professional boxer or MMA fighter.
and multiple layers of security is a
These guys are highly trained to fight,
great strategy, and most trainers
but they don’t walk around in public
offer classes where you and your
punching people for no reason.”
new hound can discover whether
“Having been around German Shepherds since birth, I find there is no breed that offers more extreme intelligence, companionship, security, and unconditional love.”
“I prefer to work with three predominate breeds: the German Shepherd, the Dutch Shepherd, and the Belgian Malinois. To me, once I find a dog that can do the work, it’s more important to place the right dog with the right family based on his or her personality rather than having the breed be the most important.”
Morrell says canines can become
you have what it takes as a team to
over-socialized to the point where their
build an additional level. Hopefully
threat-assessment skills diminish,
you never have to use either a gun
but his trained dogs have the proper
or a dog to their fullest potential.
yin-yang balance — they’re perfectly
But which one would you rather have
safe around their owners and friends
keeping you warm while camp-
(or security team), but know when to
ing? (Both is always an acceptable
instantly switch on their game face.
answer in our book!)
URL:
Pickerington, Ohio URL:
COURTESY OF LEIGHTON OOSTHUISEN
REC O ILW E B .C O M
Our panel of experts conducts
COURTESY OF WADE MORRELL
118
SOCIALIZED WEAPON
TRAINER:
Leighton Oosthuisen COMPANY:
Partners Working Dogs LOCATION:
Cave Creek, Arizona URL:
www.partnersworking dogs.com “There are three choices: German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, and Dutch Shepherds. Family dynamics, personalities, and budget all play a role. Selecting a dog should be done carefully, and with the help of a professional. Most personal protection dogs have a working life of six to eight years, so invest wisely.”
0 8 IS SU E REC O ILW E B .C O M
120
If you think carrying a concealed weapon
reliably access one’s firearm in a man-
is just about obtaining a permit and
ner that lends itself to quick and precise
strapping on a gun, then you are woeful-
target engagement. In other words, can
ly mistaken. Carrying and potentially us-
you draw your concealed gun and shoot
ing a concealed-carry pistol competently
accurately when it matters?
takes skill, practice, and an emotional
Marksmanship in its purest sense re-
defense. In the infamous Tueller knife defense drill, it was established through The tactics shown are for illustrative purposes only. Seek professional training or instruction before attempting any techniques discussed or shown in this story.
testing that an attacker with a knife could cover 21 feet in approximately 1.5 seconds. This gives what I believe is the best baseline for the minimum amount of time someone should be capable of
commitment ‌ not to mention the right
mains unchanged when covertly carrying,
gun and gear for you and your lifestyle.
but the balance of speed versus accuracy
producing a concealed pistol and firing
With this in mind, the following are four
begins to lean decidedly toward speed.
an effective shot.
areas I believe all CCW permit holders
Barring law enforcement and military
should consider before they step out the
personnel, a concealed pistol is a defen-
seconds as my training baseline, given
front door with that defensive tool.
sive firearm, so the most likely scenarios
sufficient precision to be effective. In
will be impromptu defense of oneself or
my Covert Carry Course, I push to get
another at a relatively short distance. If a
those shots well under that at less than
threat is anywhere from contact distance
7 yards and structure drills to reinforce
and operationally, the largest deficiency
out to approximately 10 yards, it is gener-
rapid, effective engagement of multiple
in concealed carrying after pure marks-
ally impractical to evade the threat safely
shots in that time while moving off the
manship is the ability to rapidly and
without employing some form of active
line of force.
SKILLSET From my experience both in training
For that reason I have used 1.5
A FORMER DELTA OPERATOR REVEALS THE KEY CONCEPTS TO COVERT CARRY AND WHY CALIBER CAN’T COMPENSATE FOR LACK OF SKILL BY MIKE PANNONE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHINNOSUKE TANAKA
LESS THAN
1.5
SECONDS
An assailant with a knife 21 feet away can reach you in 1.5 seconds. You need to be able to draw your weapon and place an accurate shot quicker than that.
HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT EQUIPMENT SELECTION The first question students often ask is, “What is the best holster for concealment?” That has so many determinant factors that it is virtually impossible to give them a specific answer unless I know what pistol they carry. That stated, the first item to evaluate is pistol type, which will drive carry options based on dimensions alone. I have come up with a list of factors to consider when choosing your concealed handgun:
RELIABILITY
“SHOOTABILITY”
First and foremost it must be reliable
It’s not a sport gun, but at the close
with any bullet type in that caliber.
range it’ll be utilized your pistol should
No exceptions! A Nonerism for the
be capable of rapid, effective shots.
masses: “A gun is like a parachute. When you need one to save your life,
ACCURACY
it’s exactly what you need and it has
My benchmark for accuracy is for a
to work.”
carry handgun to be capable of hitting a 6-inch plate at 20 yards. This is a practical test of both the gun and the user — if you can’t do this
must be as small as you can still hide
with your gun, perhaps you should
and shoot effectively.
consider changing one part of the
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0 8
SIZE This will drive the carry method, so it
REC O ILW E B .C O M
122
system. My M&P9c with stock barrel
CALIBER
can hit a ¼-size IPSC at 50 yards, as
I prefer pistols of 9mm/.380 bul-
long as I do my part.
let diameter or larger and require them for my Covert Carry Course,
CAPACITY
but understand some might rather
The last and least-important factor.
carry a smaller gun — for instance,
The absolute minimum should be
a Beretta 21A in .22 LR, because a
five shots (Smith & Wesson J-Frame),
student can’t handle or doesn’t like
while my preference is 8+1 or more.
the recoil or can’t retract the slide.
(Sorry, two-shot derringers are a no-
(The 21A has a neat tip-up barrel.)
go.) This should statistically (based
You are far better off with a small
on FBI crime data) provide enough
gun that you are comfortable and
to survive an encounter with a much
competent with and will actually carry,
lower likelihood of having to reload or
rather than a larger gun someone else
running out of ammunition.
thinks you should have that you left
It is critical to train and practice low-light techniques. Holding the flashlight between your ring finger and pinky means you can reload the weapon without losing the light. You may get injured or need to protect a family member, so it’s also important to work on your onehanded shooting and weapon manipulation.
The world is a chaotic place. Get comfortable shooting from unconventional positions.
In Georgia recently, while defend-
back at home. Regarding the haggard
ing herself and her children, a
“9mm versus .40 versus .45” debate
woman shot an intruder in her home
— any one of them will do, but as
with a five-shot revolver. She fired
Herodotus said, “Force has no place
five shots with five hits and still had
where there is need of skill.” I’d rather
to threaten that she would shoot
have a lot of rounds in a gun I can
again (good bluff on her part) before
shoot fast and accurately than the
the criminal fled under his own
converse. That is why I carry a Smith
power. Had she not shot as well and/
& Wesson M&P9c. Modern hollow-
or had he called her bluff, she very
point ammunition makes 9mm very
well would have had a different situ-
effective.
ation to deal with. (Note to self: five shots barely did the job.)
Drills involving threats interspersed with no-shoots help you practice target discrimination and precision.
HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT CARRY METHOD This will be driven by gun, holster, and cover garment. A Kel-Tec P32, .380, Ruger LCP, or lightweight JFrame can be dropped right in a baggy pocket and not print. Even the Glock 26 and M&P Compact, as small as they are, have little chance at that. For this reason, if you carry something like an LCP, the best holster might be your pocket — empty of all other contents. Larger guns will require a dedicated holster ranging from the Raven Vanguard to a Safariland ALS Paddle Holster. Those in turn will be affected by cover garment, which is determined by local weather and appropriate attire. During the Arizona winter, I can carry whatever I want, but in the summer it is a much different proposition. T-
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shirt and shorts is the norm in the hot
REC O ILW E B .C O M
124
months, and it’s quite difficult to carry a full-size gun in that outfit. For my everyday carry, I use a Blade-
minimal and even smaller since I cut
they can work through what is best for
off the shirt guard, which impeded my
them in changing weather, as well.
Tech Eclipse and an M&P9c and am
draw with the smaller M&P9c grip. I
On a particular operation overseas,
very happy with them. The holster is
carry either a split-front garment or a
I carried a 1911 in a Safariland paddle
T-shirt untucked depending on weather.
and a Glock 26 in a Blade-Tech small-
I ask students to bring a few options of
of-the-back holster. I could turn in my
carry and cover garments to a class so
primary pistol if required at a site and appear unarmed, but still be able to protect the principal, my teammates, and myself.
Mike’s everyday carry gear includes his Smith & Wesson M&P9 Compact (with KKM Precision match barrel and Warren night sights), Surefire EB1 Backup flashlight, BladeTech Eclipse holster, Kershaw Blur knife.
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HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT METHODOLOGIES
Speed and accuracy are both important. Use index cards to tighten your accuracy standards while practicing.
I emphasize the following throughout my Covert Carry Course: Know what you do, why you do it, how it works, what the failure points or most common mistakes are, and train to address those. The course has four main components, taking into account students come to the class with a specific pistol already chosen: 1. Identify carry options, as well as the pros and cons of each (clothing, weather, locale, etc.) 2. Identify practical needs and requirements (civilian CCW, personal security detail, law enforcement, military, etc.) 3. Put emphasis on difficult close-range shots under aggressive time constraints 4. Overall emphasis on dexterity with weapon and equipment. By this I mean maximum speed with maximum control. To accomplish an extremely high level of weapons dexterity, in my two-day Covert Carry Course, students will draw 500-plus times from concealment and make challenging shots.
0 8
Avoid places that are trouble prone or where you believe confrontations are more likely.
IS SU E
From a carry mindset and decision-making perspective, I emphasize the following steps: Evade those whom you see as problematic or if you see confrontations begin-
REC O ILW E B .C O M
126
While practicing over 500 draws from concealment during Mike’s two-day Covert Carry Course, you’ll execute at least 100 reloads, as well. You must become smooth and efficient while reloading with your carry gear.
ning to stir up. I recommend that even if you are not involved in them directly to remove yourself and those in your charge from the area. Defend as a last resort. The goal of the course is to ensure that if you cannot avoid or evade a threat, that you will be well prepared to access your pistol rapidly and be confident you can defend yourself and others in your charge. Carrying a concealed firearm for defense is a responsibility that should not be taken lightly. Without the ability to use it competently, it’s no longer a weapon, but at best merely a good luck charm to calm our fears. You have a duty as a responsible citizen to do two things — have the skills necessary to properly manage that concealed weapon in every regard and be emotionally and psychologically prepared to use it if that is your last resort. If you have not achieved both, then leave the pistol at home until you do.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Mike Pannone is a former operational
certified law enforcement patrol rifle, pistol,
training and consulting to vetted civilians,
member of U.S. Marine Reconnaissance,
and shotgun instructor, Glock Armorer, and
military, and law enforcement agencies nation-
Army Special Forces, and Delta. He has
Simunition FX Scenario and Safety instructor.
wide. In 2010 — the first year CTT Solutions
participated in combat operations and high-
His specialized knowledge in close-range and
did business as a standalone entity — it
risk protection in support of U.S. policies
contact-distance pistol combatives coupled
earned the Department of Homeland Security
throughout the world as both an active-duty
with his broad operational experience give
Small Business Achievement Award.
military member and a civilian contractor.
him a wide range of practical knowledge that
Mike is also a certified FLETC firearms instructor, Federal Air Marshal instructor, NRA-
is unique. He also owns CTT Solutions, which provides
www.ctt-solutions.com www.aliastraining.com
LAW ENFORCEMENT MILITARY SECURITY CIVILIAN
‘53
‘13 YEARS
ONLINE | IN-STORE | CATALOG
8 0 0 - 3 6 7- 3 7 6 3 | W W W . S T R E I C H E R S . C O M
ARMORED EYES MOM ALWAYS SAID, “YOU’LL PUT YOUR EYE OUT WITH THAT!” PROVE HER WRONG. WEAR SHOOTING GLASSES. BY PATRICK VUONG
Unless you’re Snake Plissken or a Halloween pirate, an eye patch really shouldn’t be on the top of anyone’s shopping list. So why tempt fate by leaving your eye protection at home while you’re heading to the range? Shooting glasses are an essential part of your gear and should be worn anytime firearms are involved. After all, you can own many types of guns, but you only get one set of eyeballs. Daniel Bales takes range safety very seriously, not just because his occupation depends on it, but so too does his life. As both a SWAT member with and the rangemaster of the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office in Nevada, Bales understands the hazards involved with shooting, which others might not think twice about. “A shooter
IS SU E
0 8
should always wear eye protection to reduce the risk of eye damage,” Bales says, “be it from dust, spent casings,
REC O ILW E B .C O M
128
glass fragments, and steel-target ricochets, just
edge technology and how they might help keep
meets certain safety criteria. Certification is
to name a few.” When you also take into account
your vision as sharp as your EDC knife. With
voluntary.
high-pressure gases released from each round and
ammo prices still fluctuating due to scarcity, we
environmental factors like UV rays and blowing
decided to focus on spectacles that are more
certification and still be perfectly safe to use
sand, there are a lot of hazards that can affect —
affordable, from $130 down to pairs that cost
on the range, having that third-party rating is
or even completely ruin — your vision.
just a little more than a couple of movie tickets.
a quick way for U.S. consumers to know that the product meets a safety minimum. Though
“While the likelihood of injury may not be great, the potential consequences are incred-
While some eyewear might not have ANSI
ANSI VERSUS MIL-SPEC
there are many levels of ANSI certification, the current baseline for protective eyewear is ANSI
ible — after all, we rely on our eyes to take in
While we’re the first to admit that running
information and to navigate,” says Wes Doss,
any gear that’s Mil-spec sounds pretty cool, we
Z87.1-2010, says Drew Wallace, the military
founder and head firearms instructor at Khyber
really wanted to know whether shooting glasses
product manager for Oakley.
Interactive Associates. “Damaging an eye and
designed specifically for the military were any
“The foundation of this test is that the
losing its function, especially during critical
different (and better) than your typical pair of
eyewear can withstand ‘high mass’ and ‘high
situations, could prove to be fatal.”
safety eyewear — usually designated as meet-
velocity’ tests,” Wallace says. For the high-
ing or exceeding ANSI Z87.1 standards. The
mass test, a 1.1-pound projectile is dropped
can reduce eye injuries by more than 90 per-
answer, in short, is yes. That doesn’t, however,
from a height of 50 inches onto the eye pro,
cent. So, like wearing clean underwear, using
necessarily mean that you need to replace all
which is placed on a dummy head. For the
eye pro is obviously a no-brainer. But which
your eye pro with Mil-spec models.
high-velocity test, the spectacles are shot from
Statistics show that wearing eye protection
ones should you buy? In today’s market, the choices are virtually endless.
But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. First,
20 angles with .25-caliber steel balls traveling
what the heck does ANSI Z87.1 mean? Es-
at up to 160 feet per second (or 102 mph), says Ray Hill, director of outdoor sales for Wiley
by the private, nonprofit American National
X, Inc. To pass both tests, the projectile or
perts in the industry to help explain the cutting-
Standards Institute — to ensure that a product
potential fragments can’t touch the dummy’s
In these pages, RECOIL takes an in-depth
IS SUE
sentially, it is a safety standard — established
look at the latest eye protection and talks to ex-
0 8
MAKE:
5.11 Tactical MODEL:
Raid Eyewear STYLE:
eyeshield HIGHEST SAFETY RATING:
ANSI Z87.1-2003 LENS COLOR:
clear, orange, smoke UV PROTECTION:
100 percent MSRP:
$110
URL:
www.511tactical.com PROS: This eyeshield might look familiar because it’s designed by Wiley X, so it comes with reliable engineering and functionality. It comes in a kit with various goodies, including three lenses that provide excellent peripheral vision with their wide coverage. The frame and temple arms are flexible. CONS: The nose pads are a bit stiff. Also, there’s almost no way to insert a lens without getting our grubby fingerprints all over it. On a related note, we envision wear points where the lens and frame meet, as there are already signs of rubbing on the lens edge and frame after our short-term testing.
product has received in the United States. Generally speaking, if a pair of eye pro has received a Mil-spec rating, it’ll also meet (and exceed) ANSI optics and impact standards (and sometimes European requirements, as well). Read on to see if there’s shooting glasses that meet your needs.
129 REC O ILW E B .C O M
Considering what it protects and the catastrophic damage it can prevent, eye pro is mandatory. End of story. With so many shooting glasses out there, RECOIL tested some recent offerings available on the market to determine which models offer the most value for $130 or less. Please note that we listed the highest safety certification each
MAKE:
Browning MODEL:
Buckmark Shooting Glasses STYLE: eyeshield HIGHEST SAFETY RATING:
ANSI Z87.1-2010 LENS COLOR:
smoke
UV PROTECTION:
99 percent MSRP:
$30
URL:
www.browning.com PROS: For the cost of only a 50-round box of 9mm, this eyeshield offers surprisingly solid performance. Peripheral vision through the wraparound, suspended lens is clear and undistorted while the temple arms are flexible and soft. The best feature? The non-slip nose pads can be adjusted to three positions. The Buckmark is a good buy if budget is a concern. CONS: The lens doesn’t extend all the way down to our tester’s cheek, so a slit of light always seeps upward. On top of this, the lens filters only 99 percent of UV rays; others in its class offer full 100-percent capability.
MAKE:
ESS 0 8
MODEL:
IS SU E
CDI Max
STYLE:
sunglasses HIGHEST SAFETY RATING:
U.S. Mil-spec PRF-31013
130
LENS COLOR:
smoke and clear
REC O ILW E B .C O M
UV PROTECTION:
100-percent UVA and UVB MSRP:
$100
URL:
www.esseyepro.com PROS: The CDI Max offers generous lens wrap for more eye coverage and ESS’s patented Lateral Exchange System so you can quickly swap out different colored lenses. It’s a great combination of maximum protection on the range and fashionable functionality for everyday use. The kit also comes with clear lenses, a microfiber cleaning pouch, and a hard case. CONS: There’s no way of exchanging the lenses without smearing your fingerprints all over without using gloves, the micro-fiber cleaning pouch, or something similar.
eyes nor can the lenses fracture or pop out
definition, so you can count on being able to
is much more time consuming and costly than
of the frame. The eyewear must also provide
see your targets better.”
the average ANSI product, because it provides
lateral coverage. Eric Dobbie, commercial program manager
On the other hand, the Mil-spec PRF-31013 standard demands much more stringent
such a higher level of impact protection.” Dan Packard, vice president of military sales
for ESS, says that while lenses of this rating
requirements, both in terms of breadth and
for Revision Military, explains that this type of
aren’t shatterproof (only shatter resistant) they
depth of features.
eyewear meets the U.S. military’s specification
will ensure visual clarity: “ANSI Z87 certifica-
“Mil-spec means a lot more than just a
for protection and encompasses the following
tion also means that the eyewear has passed
thicker lens,” Dobbie says. “The development
areas: abrasion, optics, ballistics, chemical
rigorous optical quality tests for prism and
and engineering of Mil-spec eyewear products
resistance, and environmental conditions (i.e.
ARMORED EYES MAKE:
ESS
MODEL:
Crossbow Suppressor 2X Kit STYLE:
eyeshield HIGHEST SAFETY RATING:
U.S. Mil-spec PRF-31013 LENS COLOR:
clear and copper UV PROTECTION:
100-percent UVA and UVB MSRP:
$110
URL:
www.esseyepro.com PROS: This stellar eyeshield features temple arms that are wafer thin to accommodate ear-cup hearing protection and communication devices, eliminating pressure points on your temples. The lenses are superb. Plus, you can exchange the lenses and components from any eyewear in ESS’s Cross Series, increasing variety depending on your needs. This kit comes with various accessories, including a clear lens and hard case. If that weren’t enough, you can also order prescription lens inserts separately. CONS: There’s not much about this top-quality eye pro to complain about, though we suppose the price is nothing to laugh at. MAKE:
Oakley
STYLE:
HIGHEST SAFETY RATING:
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sunglasses
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MODEL:
SI Fuel Cell With Cerakote
ANSI Z87.1-2003 LENS COLOR:
gray
100-percent UVA, UVB, and UVC MSRP:
$130
URL:
www.patriotoutfitters.com PROS: The already durable frame has been painted and cured with Cerakote Generation II Firearm Coatings to increase toughness. The Plutonite lenses have superior UV filtration while meeting the ANSI Z87 basic impact standards. A good mix of looks, protection, and everyday use. CONS: At $130, this is the biggest greenback guzzler of the bunch. And if it truly wanted to be one tough mother, the lenses should have been Mil-spec.
temperature, humidity, solarization). He says
say this type of eyewear will definitely benefit
bit of safety for your eyes should anything go
that all of Revision’s protective eyewear can
any shooter, while Hill at Wiley X and Wallace
wrong.” And certainly those going into harm’s
withstand a 12-gauge shotgun blast from
at Oakley argue that the decision comes down
way may wish to opt for the extra protection.
16 feet away — with video proof posted on
to personal preference.
Revision’s website, showing various lenses
“The level of protection depends entirely on
SUNGLASSES VERSUS EYESHIELDS After you’ve determined the desired level
pockmarked with birdshot, but still whole and
the preference of the individual,” Wallace says.
without any spalling or penetration.
“For most recreational shooters, ANSI-rated
of protection, the next conundrum will be to
protective eyewear will suffice. But there is
decide the style: sunglasses or eyeshields. As
nothing more reassuring than having that extra
the term implies, shooting sunglasses look like
So does that mean you should invest in a pair of Mil-spec eye pro? Packard and Dobbie
131 REC O ILW E B .C O M
UV PROTECTION:
MAKE:
Oakley
MODEL:
SI Fives Squared STYLE:
sunglasses HIGHEST SAFETY RATING:
ANSI Z87.1-2003
LENS COLOR:
gray
UV PROTECTION:
100-percent UVA, UVB, and UVC MSRP:
$80
URL:
www.patriotoutfitters.com PROS: A good-looking pair of shades that provides crisp optics and decent protection in a lightweight package. The temple arms taper so there’s coverage around the eye socket, but get slimmer around the ears. This pair is ideal for those with small to medium faces. CONS: Those with big noggins will find this a tight squeeze. This is great for everyday use and the occasional trip to an outdoor range, but not necessarily for hardcore use.
MAKE:
Revision Military MODEL:
Hellfly Ballistic Sunglasses 0 8
STYLE:
IS SU E
sunglasses HIGHEST SAFETY RATING:
U.S. Mil-spec PRF-31013 LENS COLOR:
smoke (nine other lens/frame combos available)
132
UV PROTECTION:
REC O ILW E B .C O M
100-percent UVA, UVB, and UVC MSRP:
$80
URL:
www.revisionmilitary.com PROS: The wraparound-style lenses provide excellent clarity, exceptional UV filtration, and serious ballistic protection while the frame (with adjustable nosepiece) offers a durable yet comfortable fit. Also, Revision offers prescription lenses at an additional cost. With the Hellfly, you can hit the beach, hike a trail, or go to war. CONS: It’s fairly low profile so there’s less lens coverage around the eye socket area as largerframe sunglasses. It’s aesthetically ho-hum.
sports or fashion shades from Ray Ban or Maui
eyeshields as dedicated shooting glasses worn
and instructors who often find themselves
Jim, but also meet the ANSI Z87 standards.
only at the range, while there are others here
turned to watch their students and shooters.
They are two lenses surrounded by a frame.
who prefer to use sunglasses because they can
Meanwhile, an eyeshield features a large,
double for everyday use, too.
single lens that wraps around the user’s eyes, from cheekbone to cheekbone (or wider), and attached to a low-profile frame.
Packard at Revision says that, generally speaking, buying eyeshields is more advantageous. “A single-lens eyeshield generally will offer
“Additionally, eyeshields offer the flexibility of lens interchangeability in a variety of light situations. There is also an increased value with eyeshields, as you are more likely to be able to replace lenses if they become
more protection than two separate lenses,” he
scratched or damaged. With many pairs of
preference. Even among the RECOIL staff
says. “Eyeshields also offer high levels of lateral
sunglasses, once the lenses are damaged, you
there’s a division: Some staff members favor
protection — very important for rangemasters
have to replace the entire product.”
Choosing which type depends on personal
ARMORED EYES MAKE:
Revision Military MODEL:
StingerHawk Deluxe STYLE:
eyeshield HIGHEST SAFETY RATING:
U.S. Mil-spec PRF-31013 LENS COLOR:
clear, smoke, vermillion UV PROTECTION:
100-percent UVA, UVB, and UVC MSRP:
$125
URL:
www.revisionmilitary.com PROS: This eye pro has everything you’d want in premium shooting glasses: comfort, good looks, durability, anti-fog Mil-spec lenses with distortion-free vision, and thin temple arms compatible with various headwear, ear protection, and communication devices. Moreover, the kit comes with various accessories, including three lenses and head strap. CONS: Did you notice the price tag? Ouch.
MAKE:
Smith Elite MODEL:
Hudson Tactical HIGHEST SAFETY RATING: LENS COLOR:
clear, gray, Ignitor, polarized brown, and polarized gray UV PROTECTION: MSRP:
$80 ($125 for polarized colors) URL:
elite.smithoptics.com PROS: It’s easy to love Mil-spec eye pro that’s packaged in sports-style sunglasses, complete with distinctive lens colors, and remarkable visual clarity. The Hudson Tactical is also lightweight. CONS: The small-fit frame is meant for those with smaller braincases, so the rest of us will find wearing this pair is akin to sliding your temples through two staircase bannisters.
which happens often for me when I use the
every shooter should consider before slapping
ESS CDI Max sunglasses, with its Lateral
AR-15. These glasses also look similar to oth-
down the cash or plastic:
Exchange System, provide him the benefits
ers in today’s market, so I can use them for
HIGHEST SAFETY RATING: It’s ideal to have
of an eyeshield, but in the aesthetic pack-
everyday use.”
glasses that at least meet the ANSI Z87.1-2010
For Bales, the rangemaster in Nevada, the
age of a pair of sunglasses. “I wear the CDI Max due to its ability to change lenses for different types of lighting (i.e. clear lenses
standards. A tip: Look for the phrase “Z87” on
WHAT TO LOOK FOR Alright. You’ve determined not just the style
the lens and frame. However, Dobbie at ESS offers a key caveat: “Many products only meet
for nighttime and smoke lenses for daytime)
of your eye pro, but also the level of protection.
outdated versions of the Z87 standard, such as
and the eye coverage they supply,” he says.
What else should you look for? The following is
ANSI Z87.1-2003, which called out the same
“I like the ability to replace scratched lenses,
a brief look at five key attributes of eye pro that
marking. Be sure to confirm on the company’s
133 REC O ILW E B .C O M
100-percent UVA, UVB, UVC
0 8
U.S. Mil-spec PRF-31013
IS SUE
STYLE:
sunglasses
MAKE:
Smith Elite MODEL:
PivLock V2 Max Tactical STYLE:
eyeshield HIGHEST SAFETY RATING:
U.S. Mil-spec PRF-31013 LENS COLOR:
clear, gray
UV PROTECTION:
100-percent UVA and UVB MSRP:
$119
URL:
elite.smithoptics.com PROS: The eyeshield has an innovative FreeFloat Lens Technology, which essentially allows the soft arms and adjustable nosepiece to be snapped onto the top-quality lens in seconds. There’s no fumbling around with having to bend a lens to insert it into a frame. This makes the eye pro lightweight, and more efficient when swapping out lenses. Also, the kit includes two lenses and a hard case. CONS: It’s not wallet friendly. Plus, only long-term testing will determine if the contact points between the temple arms and the lens will hold up or wear out.
MAKE:
Wiley X
MODEL:
Rush 0 8
STYLE:
IS SU E
sunglasses HIGHEST SAFETY RATING:
ANSI Z87.1-2003 LENS COLOR:
gray
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UV PROTECTION:
100-percent UVA and UVB
REC O ILW E B .C O M
MSRP:
$75
URL:
www.wileyx.com PROS: With non-slip rubber temple arms and nose pads and a solid design, the Rush provides a natural, secure fit for almost any outdoor activity. Also, prescription lenses are available. CONS: It’s only certified to ANSI Z87.12003 standards while other shades in its class offer Mil-spec lenses for about the same price.
website or product packaging which version of
TINTING: Selecting the right lens color is more
shelf or in a picture online, but you won’t know
the standard a product meets.” These require-
than just matching it to your outfit. “Certain
if you’ll like it until you wear them. Make sure
ments also include “high definition,” meaning
high-contrast lenses can make certain colors
they fit comfortably on your ears, nose, and
the lenses offer excellent clarity and color fidel-
stand out in low-light (cloudy) conditions and
cheekbones. If you’ve forgotten you’re even
ity without light distortion.
help increase the eye’s ability to focus,” says
wearing eye pro within a few minutes of putting
LENS COVERAGE: The lenses should cover
Packard, noting that most premium eyeshields
them on, consider it a match.
your entire eye area, both side to side and top
have the ability to change lenses, allowing you
COMPATIBILITY: “Eyewear doesn’t live in a
to bottom, Dobbie says: “As a general rule, if it
to adapt to your given environment.
vacuum,” says Packard. “It must integrate
isn’t blocking out nearly all external light when
FIT: This is not unlike the feel of a handgun in
with other equipment,” such as your hear-
worn, it is providing insufficient coverage.”
your mitts — eyewear might look great on the
ing protection and hat. For example, wearing
ARMORED EYES MAKE:
Wiley X
MODEL:
Valor
STYLE:
sunglasses HIGHEST SAFETY RATING:
U.S. Mil-spec PRF-31013 LENS COLOR:
clear, gray, rust UV PROTECTION:
100-percent UVA and UVB MSRP:
$95
URL:
www.wileyx.com PROS: Almost hybrid in nature, the Valor has the lensswap capability of an eyeshield with the low-profile look of sunglasses. It’s quite comfortable while exceeding Mil-spec standards. These shades are a good choice while off duty, on duty, or on the range. Also, prescription lenses are available. CONS: Inserting the lenses takes a bit of getting used to, and not getting fingerprints all over the lenses is virtually impossible without the use of gloves, cloth, or something similar.
MAKE:
XX2i Optics MODEL:
USA1 Pro Racing White Gloss STYLE:
HIGHEST SAFETY RATING:
N/A
UV PROTECTION:
100-percent UVA and UVB MSRP: URL:
www.xx2i.com PROS: These lightweight sports shades come in patriotic colors: the installed lenses are blue while the two sets of spare lenses are clear and red — all shatterproof. The adjustable temple arms and adjustable nose pads also come in U.S. colors. The kit also comes with backup arm tips and nose pads and a hard case. CONS: While they performed well in our short-term testing, the materials just felt rather ho-hum, which was surprising considering the price. Also, though they are shatterproof, USA1 hasn’t been put through the voluntary ANSI certification process.
FOR OUR COMPLETE EYE PRO BUYER’S GUIDE, PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.RECOILWEB.COM/EYEPROGUIDE.
earmuff-style ear protection all day long is
pair that works within your budget. “Beside
As a U.S. Army veteran and retired police offi-
much more comfortable with eye pro with thin
the fact that you can’t put a price on your
cer, he has been in more than his fair share of
temple arms.
eyesight, if you can’t accurately see due to
unpredictable buttcheek-clinching situations.
DURABILITY: There’s no point in buying a
poor optics, or if you are constantly squinting
He never goes shooting without a good pair of
series of cheap of eye protection that’s going to
or adjusting your glasses due to a poor fit,
eye pro.
break every few months. Your pair should last
consistently hitting your targets is going to be
for years.
a lot harder,” Dobbie says.
VALUE: You get what you pay for, especially
While some might balk at paying more than
“Eye protection, while at times an investment,” Doss says “is inexpensive insurance and one that has countlessly proven to protect
in the firearms world. Don’t go cheap for the
a Benjamin for a pair of shooting glasses, Doss
folks here in the United States, as well as our
sake of being cheap. Get the highest-quality
recommends investing in a solid, reliable pair.
troops stationed abroad.”
135 REC O ILW E B .C O M
$90
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LENS COLOR:
blue, clear, red
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136
ROGUE PRECISION’S LOGO IS A NONETOO-SUBTLE PLAY ON THE HOG’S TOOTH AWARDED TO GRADUATES OF THE USMC SCOUT SNIPER SCHOOL BY IAIN HARRISON PHOTOGRAPHY BY HENRY Z. DE KUYPER
This 7.62 bullet is worn around the neck on a piece of 550 cord and represents “the one with your name on it.” The legend is that as long as the sniper owns this bullet, he’s invincible. The truth is somewhat different. As any owner of a startup company will tell you, long hours and sleepless nights are the norm, as the usual functions of product development, R&D, sourcing, finance, and marketing are shouldered by very few staff members. Or in many cases, by just one guy. If you also happen to be learning to walk again after losing both legs in an IED attack, well your job just got a teensy bit harder.
R-Clamp fits most forearm widths up to 2.5 inches. (Rifle shown is an Accuracy International AW with Viperskins stock panels.)
ROGUE TO THE CORPS on making it easier to mass-produce in order to bring the price down. RECOIL: What processes are you planning on using? CR: The idea is to injection-mold the main parts out of carbon-reinforced polymer, the same as an M4 stock, as people are familiar with the material and it has a good track record. This’ll make it lighter and hopefully more affordable, but tooling costs are a big chunk of change. I’m plowing the sales of the Gen 1 version into development of the Gen 2. The idea is to make the complete system, rest, joystick, and tripod available for less than $300. RECOIL: Anything else in the works? CR: I’ve got a book of ideas that I put together over the last couple of years So we didn’t complain when Colin
after I got hurt, and it’s a matter of
Raaz, founder of Rogue Precision, had to
prioritizing them. I’m not interested in
reschedule our appointment to test the
making another PMAG, just sticking to
R-Clamp rifle saddle, which he devel-
my core competency in precision rifle
oped for urban sniper deployments. In
shooting. I will tell you that nothing I
the end, we rendezvoused at a roadside
produce will be sourced from overseas.
bar on, appropriately enough, Memorial Day 2013, before rolling out to the
We spent a pleasant few hours test-
desert with a sniper rifle, an M4, and
ing the R-Clamp rest and are pleased to
an AK74. Raaz graduated top of his
report it works well. For those deploy-
U.S. Marine Corps Scout Sniper class in
ing into harm’s way, it addresses the
2009 and after two tours in Helmand
problem of getting a stable shooting
province, still looks every inch the quiet
platform where none exist naturally,
professional. Arriving at our favorite long-
such as shooting through loopholes in
range shooting spot, he jumped out of
a semi-urban environment. We came
his truck, set up the tripod, and started
away from the range humbled by the
hammering targets at 300 meters.
courage and determination of its creator and have
RECOIL Magazine: How did you come
a feeling we’ll hear a lot
up with the idea for the Rogue Preci-
more from Colin Raaz.
sion rest? Colin Raaz: The Marines always get the short end of the stick when it comes
MAKE:
to equipment, so you learn to make
Rogue Precision
your own. When I deployed, there were
R-Clamp
guys bolting together stuff from Home Depot, and I figured there had to be
MODEL: WEIGHT:
24 ounces MSRP:
a better solution. Right now, we’re on
$180
Gen 1 of the rifle rest and I’m working
www.rogueprecision.com
URL:
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SHOOT,THEN DRINK.IN THAT ORDER. BY JACOB HERMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATRICK VUONG
In 1964, the government of the
in popularity of bourbon (much due to
United States did something that for
the hipster movement) and also the
once made sense. Congress declared
horrible concoctions which trendy bars
bourbon a “distinctive product of the
whip up in order to make some gunless
United States.” If you are a literal
man feel like he should be wearing a
reader of the U.S. Constitution like
plaid shirt and Red Wing boots.
I am, then you can see how I might
Being a Southern American male,
think that drinking bourbon makes you
there are two things which I’m pleased
more American. Historically, bourbon
to call pastimes and which bring me
is credited to Kentuckians. Like the
much joy. One of those things is drink-
Kentucky Long Rifle, bourbon has had
ing bourbon. The other is shooting.
a hand in shaping this nation. Those
I am going to give you a primer — a
hard men who rode west, gambled
“how to,” if you will — so that you may
on river boats, and fought America’s
also come to know the great pleasures
enemies drank bourbon. They did not
of this heavenly ambrosia next time
drink vodka, or fruity concoctions, like
you are relaxing amongst men. In order
their East Coast counterparts.
to enjoy bourbon, you need to have the
As I travel the country for my job, I have been able to see both the growth
right gear. And gun guys love gear, so this should not be a problem.
It goes without saying that firearms and alcohol do not mix. If you choose to drink, do so responsibly and only after you’re done shooting.
BULLEIT BOURBON
GLASSES The correct glass makes the differ-
Bulleit, while an old recipe, is fairly new
ence between a good night and a great night. Nothing looks sillier than pour-
to the market compared to the many older
ing a fine bourbon into a plastic cup
bourbons that have been available for decades.
like a toddler having some milk. A man
Bulleit came about in 1987 when the original
needs a good bourbon glass, and that
distiller’s great, great-grandson decided to
glass needs to be a heavy old-fash-
revive the bourbon. I, for one, am thankful.
ioned glass or a rocks glass, for those
Bulleit is rye heavy, which may be why I enjoy
who have never spent time around a
it even though it is under 100 proof. Currently
bar. The glass needs to have a heavy
it is 90 proof. The distillery claims all the bour-
bottom and thick sides. You’re drinking
bon is aged until the taste is right, whereas
bourbon, so your glass needs to have
most distilleries brag about how long the bour-
some heft. This glass will also prevent
bon sits in a barrel. Unique is the bourbon that
your hand from melting the ice so
is just aged until it is right. They have recently
quickly. An old fashioned glass holds
released a 10-year variety that, though harder
between 6 and 10 ounces. I prefer
to obtain, is worth tracking down. The heavy rye content of Bulleit gives a dis-
the heavy 10-ounce versions — leaves
tinct flavor. Bulleit has a vanilla and buttery
edges later in the evening. There is no
nose. It has a pleasing finish with a caramel
reason to travel without one.
flavor. It is easy to drink, and many new
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140
ICE If you choose to use ice, you need
WILD TURKEY 101 Wild Turkey 101 is my house bourbon. If
bourbon drinkers are drawn to it. It is also the sweetest bourbon I drink. Price swings wildly for this bourbon, from $19 in some states to
to seek out the solid frozen variety.
you read the Wikipedia article on bourbon it
upwards of $40 in others. While I have never
Usually ice from a machine is wet and
states that “Wild Turkey is usually associated
found the reason why, I will say for under $23
slick. The walls of the cube are thin,
with a rough, macho personality in popular
or so it is a great value.
and they melt quickly. You want solid
media.” This suits most American shooters
cubes that are hard frozen with an
just fine. In my mind I shoot like Dirty Harry.
exterior that seems rough. The thicker
So I should probably drink like him too.
the cube, the longer it will take to
The 101 stands for the proof of the bour-
melt. I keep several ice trays of this
bon, which translates to 50.5-percent alcohol.
type of ice for my drinks. Your other
Wild Turkey is rye heavy and produces a
option is purchasing the so-called
unique taste. The “kickin’ chicken” packs a
ice rocks. These are soapstone rocks
wallop for those unused to drinking heavier-
which you chill in the freezer and
proof liquors. For those who enjoy bourbon
do not melt. If you do not want your
at proofs higher than 90 or so, Wild Turkey
drink watered down, then this is the
provides a fantastic flavor. Technically, Wild
best thing to use. If you enjoy the ice
Turkey 101 has a leathery nose to it. The first
melting then this is (obviously) a poor
taste contains hints of vanilla, but there is a
choice, and you should stick with good
long peppery finish. A good “burn” is found
solid ice cubes.
with WT101.
WHAT TO DRINK
are reasonably priced. Retail is usually under
For me it is one of the better bourbons that Just because you are new to
$25, while its offshoots, including American
bourbon does not mean you have to
Spirit, are higher priced but provide a delight-
drink any old rotgut. Here are three
ful taste. You will also see Wild Turkey 101 on
bourbons that every freedom-loving
Southwest Airlines. It is the only airline I have
American should enjoy and be able to
found that provides a real, higher-proof bour-
find at a well-run liquor emporium.
bon. This is the only reason I fly Southwest.
MAKER’S MARK Maker’s Mark is probably one of the most popular bourbons in the United States and is a 90-proof bourbon. Maker’s is a bit different than other bourbons, as it uses no rye grains in its recipe, replacing them with red winter wheat. Maker’s is very easy to drink. It is an extremely smooth bourbon, and many times you see it ordered neat. Most drinkers find that it does not need to be watered down in order to enjoy. Tasting notes for Maker’s include a nose that
HOW TO
DRINK BOURBON
This should not have to be written, but I have to say my piece. Bourbon is
is caramel and vanilla. It has a very smooth
meant to be consumed in just a few ways, and I take issue with RECOIL’s
finish that does not leave the “burn” that many
editor, who believes the Manhattan is an appropriate use. If you ask for a
bourbon drinkers enjoy. I personally only drink
bourbon drink and it comes in a water glass, that is a sure sign the bartender
Maker’s straight. This is the starter bourbon for
is a jack leg who should still be hauling the beer in from the truck. Drinking a
many new drinkers — and a very good place to
rocks glass of bourbon is your birthright as an American. It is like drinking a
start it is, too.
glass of freedom. It fuels our inner man.
This means the bourbon has not been chilled or mixed. It goes
STRAIGHT UP is cold, but no ice is present. Some purists prefer this as the bourbon is chilled, but the ice will not melt and dilute the flavors of the bourbon. Be aware just using the term “straight” will probably be taken as you want a drink neat.
ROCKS Bourbon is poured into a glass containing ice cubes. This is my preferred way to drink bourbon. I ask for three cubes of ice. This is where the type of ice plays in. Solid, hard ice will melt slowly thus allowing you to enjoy the bourbon as the flavor becomes diluted by a bit of water. Higher-proof bourbons (over 105 proof) are best when they have a bit of water mixed in.
WATER And there you have it. If you’re already a seasoned bourbon fan, please take the time to introduce a novice to the pleasures of this most patriotic of beverages. Like taking a newbie to the range, it only takes a little education and before long, they’re getting pictures of John Moses Browning tattooed right next to Jack Daniels.
When you order a bourbon with water it generally arrives in both liquid and solid forms, which means the amount of water in your drink will be substantial when the rock (ice) melts. Higher-proof bourbons are sometimes ordered with water, no ice. This is to allow just a small amount of water to affect the taste.
141 REC O ILW E B .C O M
Bourbon is chilled in a shaker and strained into a glass. Bourbon
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142
AIN’T NO CHILD’S PLAY
THINK OF AIRGUNS AS TOYS? YOU THOUGHT WRONG. SOME AIRGUNS ARE POWERFUL ENOUGH TO TAKE DOWN BIG GAME, CAN HELP MAINTAIN YOUR SHOOTING SKILLS, AND CAN EVEN SERVE AS INVALUABLE TOOLS WHEN SHTF. BY GORDON D. SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN TEATOR AND GORDON D. SMITH
There is an old saying: “A BB gun in
least for the time being, they are less
the hand is worth two boxes of expen-
restricted in most jurisdictions, making
sive ammunition.” OK, maybe we’re ex-
them freely available to adults.
THE BENEFITS Ammo Abundance: Unlike firearm cartridges (which are either AWOL or
Some in the firearms community
pricey as of press time), airgun ammu-
it does hold some validity. A modern
might view these as merely toys. The
nition is abundant. Airguns discussed
replica airgun, or high-quality airgun
truth is that airguns are much, much
in this article use .177-caliber steel
of any type, can be a valuable aid to
more. Aside from being an indispens-
BBs or lead pellets in .177 or .22.
maintaining your firearm skills during
able training tool in an era when ammo
Truck over to any Wal-Mart or your local
the times you just can’t get to the range
is either in short supply or wildly over-
sporting goods store and, dollars to
(or can’t locate enough ammunition to
priced, airguns can provide many great
doughnuts, you’ll find plenty of all three
make a trip worth your while). And, at
benefits for a firearms owner.
types. If you don’t live close to a brick-
trapolating a bit here, but nonetheless,
Some models (especially if they are
and-mortar storefront, a quick search
To make it even simpler, there are felt
on the Internet will yield a number
imported from Europe) already have
“pellets” in .177 or .22 that can be
of suppliers that would be more than
a threaded muzzle with an end cap to
fired through the gun to clean or oil the
happy to ship you some.
protect the threads. This means that
barrel. Other than that, lubricating per
if you jump through the hoops needed
the manufacturer’s instructions, wiping
either 250 or 500 and could run any-
to acquire a suppressor, you can use
down the outside, and proper storage is
where from $3 to $12. Steel BBs come
the same one on your airgun and your
about it.
in tubes, cartons, and plastic dispens-
powder burner.
Pellets are normally packed in tins of
Don’t want to pay $200 for a tax
ers containing up to 6,000 BBs. You
Bug-Out Tool: Airguns can also become an invaluable asset in a SHTF
can expect to cough up anywhere from
stamp? No problem, some American
scenario, says Clinton “Ton” Jones, a
$2 or $3 up to $12 for these, as well.
manufacturers have incorporated
lifelong shooter, technical advisor to
non-removable baffles at the muzzle
the film industry, and co-host of Spike
would be cost. While you could spend
of some of their airguns. So far, there
TV’s Auction Hunters. Think about a
thousands on a custom big-bore
has been no government restriction im-
continued scarcity of ammo and being
capable of taking down a deer (no joke,
posed on airguns using this technology.
faced with a long-term survival situa-
Wallet Friendly: The second benefit
Blowback: Recoil from CO2 and pre-
there are airguns that can take large
tion; having a self-contained alternative
game at impressive distances), we
charged pneumatic airguns is practi-
weapon to put small-game meat on the
are concentrating here on lower cost
cally nonexistent. Depending upon your
table would be ideal. By self-contained
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143 REC O ILW E B .C O M
alternatives for maintaining your shooting skills. You could easily get started for an investment well under $100, or you might spend several hundred depending on your needs and desires. For example, you could shop online for the Umarex Walther PPK blowback for about $70 and an AirForce TalonSS retailing for roughly $575. Ya Heard?: Another benefit is the relatively low power of some airguns
This Crosman conversion kit closely mimics the look of an AR-15 upper. The MAR177 can convert your AR-15 into a competition air rifle. One caveat: At 7 pounds, 6 ounces with an MSRP of $650, this kit costs just as much as some powderburning uppers, while weighing as much as an entire AR-15.
needs and the type of practice you are
we’re talking either a powerful springer,
seeking, there are CO2 models that
multi-pump, or pre-charged pneumatic
bleed off a bit of gas to cycle the metal
(PCP) with a hand pump (so you are not
slide for realistic recoil, or “blowback”
reliant on CO2 or compressed air filling
action. Spring cocking models will
stations).
generate a recoil impulse upon firing
“The benefits are that quite a bit of
due to the powerful internal spring used
airgun ammo can be stockpiled easily
to drive a piston that pushes a blast of
and takes up little space. Also, airguns
air to launch the projectile.
are quiet — important if you are out
Easy Upkeep: Minimal maintenance is required because there’s no burning
hunting and prefer not to have the shot reveal your location,” Jones says.
gunpowder to foul the barrels. If you’re
Realistic Training: Many of these
sound signature; making it possible for
shooting lead pellets, the lead contact
airguns can be customized to be more
you to set up a range in your basement
with the barrel rifling is minimal. Swab-
like your everyday carry gun or add
or backyard as long as you provide
bing the barrel occasionally to clean
the same/similar optics you’re used to.
a proper backstop. Hearing protec-
and lubricate the inside is recommend-
Even if you’re shooting one that doesn’t
tion may not be required, but if firing
ed. Bear in mind that airgun barrels are
closely mimic your powder burner, you
indoors, some models can produce a
generally made of brass or soft steel, so
can run drills with it to help keep you
fairly loud report.
care must be taken not to gouge them.
sharp.
and the general lack of a punishing
1
2 With an AR-15 aesthetic, the Crosman MTR77NP can shoot .177 lead pellets up to 1,000 feet per second and alloy pellets up to 1,200 feet per second. This makes it ideal for pest control, target shooting, and smallgame hunting. MSRP is $200.
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REC O ILW E B .C O M
144
Doug Koenig, fresh from his 15th
structor and the head instructor at the
win at the Bianchi Cup, is an airgun
Golden Gun Club in Colorado, is a firm
advocate. “Airguns are a great resource
believer in dry-fire practice and feels
for competitors,” he says, “and if you
that “trigger time is good no matter
are not taking advantage of them, you
whether you are shooting air or burning
are short-changing yourself.” Like most
powder. Just make sure you are practic-
shooters, Doug started out with an air-
ing the correct fundamentals.”
gun when he was a kid. He remembers
Airguns can also help with snap-
his first being a Crosman 760 pump.
shooting, draw and presentation, trigger
He graduated to a model 2100 Clas-
control, fundamentals of trajectory,
sic, which he still owns. Currently, his
sight alignment, movement to and from
favorite is a Gamo PT-85 with blowback
cover, shooting around barriers — all
action. “Not only is it a ton of fun, I
practiced without burning any powder.
find the blowback feature is beneficial,” Koening says. “Your sights will be moving on the firearm, so it helps
THE DOWNSIDE CQC…Close Quarter Constraints: Of
with sight-alignment practice. Also, the
course, airguns do have their draw-
slow lock time with an airgun is actually
backs. Their range is limited, some
a good thing. If you shoot well with an
have heavy trigger pulls, and BB firing
airgun, it will transfer over to a firearm.”
models are almost always smoothbores
Barry Tagart, an NRA-certified in-
so accuracy past 20 or 25 feet is dubi-
4
quite capable of pushing a 14-grain pellet accurately out to 75-plus yards.) Since the propulsion is provided by compressed gas, not the explosion from a chemical reaction in a self-contained cartridge, CO2 and PCP models will
The Crosman TR77NPS features a rifled barrel and a CenterPoint 4x32mm scope with dovetail mounts. You can take out varmints or work on your precision-shooting fundamentals.
drop in velocity and accuracy as the
If the Crosman T4 doesn’t seem at least vaguely familiar, you’ve never been to gun shop or visited a shooting range. This .177-caliber, CO2-powered airgun looks, weighs, and feels like a Glock — and that’s a good thing. Glock owners can use this tool for everything from acquiring sight picture to drawing from a holster.
powder-actuated firearm. One example
Unlike firearm ammo, airgun projectiles are cheap and available. The most common kinds are steel BBs in .177 caliber or lead pellets in .177 or .22.
firearms in certain areas of the country,
2
3
4
3
ous. (However, some PCP air rifles are
reservoir or cartridge depletes. Not-So-Wallet-Friendly: Yes, we did say that airguns are an affordable training alternative for shooters. But that doesn’t mean all airguns are all made of cheap plastic. Some high-end airguns can cost as much as, or more than, a would be the Mk4 iS Target air rifle, made by U.K. manufacturer Daystate, which has an MSRP of almost $2,800 without optics. The über-precision airguns used by Olympic competitors can go for more than that. Local Laws: While there are currently no federal restrictions on airgun ownership, state and municipality restrictions could limit your use. In fact, higher velocity and/or large caliber airguns are restricted and even classified as such as Michigan (the birthplace of Daisy) where a permit is needed when purchasing any airgun over .177-caliber or any air pistol that is not a smoothbore. Our friends in New Jersey must
AIN’T NO CHILD’S PLAY 4
are not dealing with noise and heavy
it comes with a speed loader so reload-
recoil.”
ing practice is as realistic as it gets.
Another gentleman well known in
obtain a firearm permit to purchase an airgun, and we won’t even talk about New York City. It’s your responsibility to research the laws in your area. Watch Out For Haters: There can be the stigma of “anything that looks like a gun is bad” in the eyes of the uninitiated and those who would restrict our Second Amendment freedoms. Always be cognizant of that when shooting near urban areas and do what you can to properly put all guns in a positive light.
there are too many benefits for a serious shooter to ignore them. Don’t believe us? Then believe the world-class regular basis. RECOIL contributor Mike Seeklander is an airgun enthusiast. He’s also a law enforcement officer, USMC combat veteran, firearms trainer, and a co-host of The Best Defense on the Outdoor Channel. “I am a firm believer in using airguns as an adjunct to firearms practice,” Seeklander says. “Even before ammo became so scarce, I promoted 75-percent practice with airguns/airsoft and 25-percent live fire,” says Seeklander, who’s also a national Steel Challenge champion. Mike replaces dry-fire practice with airguns as well as drills involving pivoting, moving offline, working around cover, and, with some of the replica CO2
recently “because of their realistic look
reviews of airguns and is a firearms
on film, fewer legal restrictions relative
enthusiast as well. His personal favorite
to using firearms, and safety concerns
is the Hammerli 850 Air Magnum rifle
in the hands of actors with little knowl-
from UmarexUSA because it is the
edge or experience with firearms.”
most realistic bolt-action rifle. It offers power and range to allow rifle competitors to practice effectively. According to
We are fortunate to have a plethora
Rick, to get low-cost practice time with
of choices when it comes to airguns.
an AR-15 variant, look at the Crosman
So, what do you look for when selecting
MAR177 PCP conversion kit. It fits your
your new training tool? The experts
AR-15 lower without modification and
interviewed all came from the mindset
provides match-grade accuracy from a
that it does not matter so much what
Lothar Walther barrel.
you shoot, just that you get good trigger
Ton Jones also had this to say on
time.
the subject: “Ammo is scarce — worth its weight in gold. But, you can put and shoot airguns or airsoft all day for about 20 or 30 dollars.” He believes
together a group, go to your backyard
“there is no better way to teach kids
145
about shooting safely while spending quality family time. And the adults keep up their skills at the same time. Fathers have been teaching children how to shoot since the dawn of firearms.” Ton favors airguns made in the U.S. by AirForce Airguns of Ft. Worth, Texas. They only make PCPs, with the TalonP (a .25-caliber pistol version) a new favorite due to its versatility and simplicity of operation. He also likes the Dan Wesson revolver imported by ActionSportGames USA, Inc. for teaching the basics of a wheel gun. It even uses individual .357-like cartridges, each holding a BB in its bullet shaped nose;
guns that have full-size drop-free magazines, speed reload drills. He also likes to start new shooters off with airguns because “You can hardwire their brains easily with proper technique since they
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
REC O ILW E B .C O M
firearms experts who use them on a
Daystate is the Aston Martin of the airgun world. Reportedly the first to produce pre-charged pneumatic airguns in the early 1970s, Daystate has since become known for cutting-edge technology and highquality craftsmanship. Its Mk4 iS Target, pictured here, uses an electronic firing system and shoots either .177 or .22 pellets. Price tag? $2,779 — and that’s without the scope and mount, though cheaper deals can be found online. (Photo courtesy of Airguns of Arizona.) 6
Airgunweb.com. Rick does video
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Despite the limitations of airguns,
Can you spot the airgun? Trick question. These versions of the CZ 75 P-07, STI Duty One, and Steyr M9-A1 are actually airguns from ActionSportGames USA, Inc. 5
film industry has included more airguns
IS SUE
AIRGUN APPLICATIONS
This Dan Wesson revolver from ActionSportGames USA, Inc. can teach you the basics of a wheel gun without burning powder. It even uses individual .357-like cartridges, each holding a BB in its bullet-shaped nose. 4
Ton’s behind-the-scenes work for the
airgun circles, Rick Eutsler, Jr., runs
6
5
“Look for a good trigger and quality of
SOURCES OF AIR
construction and materials.” Per Mike
New to airgunning? Then some defini-
Seeklander. “Look for a model that
tions are in order. When looking for an
complements your current gear, a close
airgun to practice with, as in anything
copy of the original firearm that fits your
else, you get what you pay for. There
holster, has attachment points for lights,
are inexpensive ones that might work
lasers, and dot sights, etc.”
for a practice gun and high-end guns
With that in mind, to get the most bang-for-your-buck (pun intended), consider the following: Per Doug Koenig,
Ask yourself: Is the slide blowback
that are extremely accurate to boot.
feature important to you for added
The powerplants that drive the projec-
realism? Will you mostly shoot indoors
tiles can be divided into three major
or in your backyard? Are you in an
groups: Pre-charged pneumatics or
urban area where discharge noise and
compressed gas, multi-pump models,
short range is a concern? Do you need
and spring powered.
a faithful copy of an actual firearm with similar weight, balance and location of
Pre-charged pneumatic (PCP)/Compressed gas: These
controls? Lastly, what is the availability
models hold highly compressed air in some sort of
of service and parts, and what is the
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manufacturer’s warranty on the product?
REC O ILW E B .C O M
146
PARTING SHOT Have you decided an airgun is just
Umarex USA offers airgun versions of some popular firearms, such as the HK P30, Smith & Wesson M&P45, and Walther PPK/S.
reservoir and represent one of the oldest types of airgun powerplants, going back to the 1600s. In modern PCPs, the reservoir is usually removable for easy filling and uses common high-pressure quick-couple fittings. The fittings allow the user to attach to a hand pump, scuba tank, or other high-pressure air supply. Some PCPs are available
the ticket since you haven’t been able to scrounge even a 50 round box of .22
your desired features and go for the
that utilize either high-pressure air (HPA) or CO2 to give
ammunition in months and your trigger
best quality of materials and construc-
users more options.
finger is itching like a mosquito bite?
tion that you can afford. Be a good
Our experts shared similar views about
consumer, be careful, always observe
Multi-pump: As the name implies, these models use a
looking for a good trigger and a model
and promote safe and responsible gun
pump arm to compress air in a holding chamber, released
close to your EDC, personal defense,
handling and enjoy the wonderful world
when the valve is tripped by the trigger. Each pump (up to
or competition firearm. Determine
of airguns!
a maximum listed in the owner’s manual) will increase the
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Gordon D. Smith — for whatever (probably primal) reason — has had a life-long love affair with anything that launches or throws a projectile. He’s a lifelong firearms enthusiast, but as a kid he was pretty much limited to slingshots, blowguns, cheap throwing knives, and, of course, airguns. He got his first airgun at age 13; it was a Daisy model 1894 air rifle that he still has in his collection. It’s in better shape for its age than Gordon is.
SOURCE
ActionSportsGames USA, Inc. www.actionsportgames.com AirForce Airguns www.airforceairguns.com Airguns of Arizona www.airgunsofarizona.com Crosman Corporation www.crosman.com Rick Eutsler, Jr. www.airgunweb.com Gamo Outdoor USA, Inc. www.gamousa.com Clinton “Ton” Jones www.facebook.com/Realtonjones Doug Koenig www.dougkoenig.com Predator Pellets www.predatorpellets.com Mike Seeklander www.shooting-performance.com Barry Tagart www.goldengunclub.com Umarex USA www.umarexUSA.com
velocity of the projectile. Typically, these models use two to 10 pumps. Note: One pump of a multi-pump may not provide enough pressure to drive the projectile from the barrel. RTFM = Read The Freakin’ Manual! Spring powered: These models use a coil spring to drive a piston that rapidly compresses air and forces it behind the BB or pellet in the chamber. The spring is usually cocked by the action of pulling the barrel down for the cocking stroke (break-barrel), use of a lever under the barrel (under-lever), or a lever on the side of the gun (side-lever). Technology that has come into play in the last 20 years replaces the metal coil spring with a gas ram. It works similarly to the strut that holds open the back window on an SUV. Note: Gas-ram powerplants can safely be left in a compressed state for several weeks. That should never be done with a metal spring powerplant.
Personal Defense is Very Personal . . . Introducing the Wraithe, MG Arms answer to personal defense and conceal carry. This handgun has everything you expect from MG Arms, quality, accuracy, performance and of course custom.
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4. Green Amaranth
1. Pink Meadow Onion
BY RYAN LEE PRICE
MiguelMalo/iStockphoto.com
NATURE’S SALAD BAR
WHETHER LOST IN THE WOODS OR IN A LONG-TERM SHTF SCENARIO, YOU CAN STILL SURVIVE OFF THE LAND BY KNOWING WHAT’S EDIBLE
You’re lost and alone. It’s been four days since you
als are strong and self-reliant.” He is the author
last ate. And you can’t get over the gut-wrenching
of 10 books, including How to Survive Anywhere,
reality that a main road could be 50 feet away
Enter the Forest, and Guide to Wild Foods. “Put
… or 50 miles away. In every survival situation,
into an unusual situation, a person will soon
desperation plays an important role. Perhaps on
discover that an inner strength is developed by
day four, a dead lizard still looks like a dead lizard,
forcing yourself to deal with your own needs. But
but by day 11, the same dead lizard looks like filet
it doesn’t come easy. It is earned by choosing to
mignon. The reality is if you don’t replace the lost
deal with a situation where your limits are tested,
calories expended while in full-tilt survival mode,
where you’re forced to rely on your own resources,
there will be very little left of you to rescue.
skills, and knowledge.”
Fortunately, Mother Nature’s got your back,
After shelter and personal safety are secured,
and if you have ample water, there is enough food
immediately next on the list is food and water.
in any average American forest to keep you in
Nearly all animals — insects, larvae, fish, snakes,
relatively good shape — provided you know what
birds, and large game — can be eaten, but you
to look for. “Just like the old adage that every dog
cannot randomly eat any plant. “Intimate knowl-
bites, every plant in nature is poisonous until you
edge of a dozen edible plants — intimate meaning
know that it isn’t,” says survival instructor and
you can spot them while driving by in a car in any
author Christopher Nyerges. “Identification is key
season — can mean all the difference between life
to any survival situation.”
and death,” Nyerges says.
Nyerges has taught practical survival skills to
Finding and identifying any combination of the
more than 30,000 people since 1974, with the
following plants will make for a nutritious and
core of his School of Self-Reliance centered on
even delicious salad, one that will give you a great
the belief that these basic skills “build inherent
source of vitamins, minerals, and the energy to not
strength into every community when the individu-
only survive, but to thrive.
(Allium unifolium) Also known as the One-Leaf Onion because of its single-stalk leaves, this completely edible plant grows near streambeds in moist clay soils. They can be eaten raw or cooked, similar to store-bought onions in every way and are a great source of Vitamin A.
2. Valley Oak Acorn (Quercus) Found in massive numbers, the acorn tops the list of edible plants found in nature, as it has been feeding humans around the world for thousands of years. All acorns are good to eat, though some have more tannins that will give them a bitter taste. Eat acorns raw or roasted. They can be easily ground into a meal for baking. Tannins can be leached from the acorns by boiling them and changing out the water when it turns yellow.
3. Carob (Ceratonia siliqua) The pulp seedpods of the Carob tree are rich in sugars and protein, which can be made into flour for baking and as a chocolate substitute. They can be eaten both green and dried, but do contain a lot of fiber. A ripe pod will smell like Limburger cheese, and too much will have a mild laxative effect.
(Amaranthus) Although it is easy to mistake Amaranth with Lamb’s Quarter, Amaranth is arguably much better for you, as it is packed with vitamins A, B and C, as well as plenty of calcium, iron, and potassium. Amaranth grows in abundance all over North America, and is completely edible. After the small flowers blossom, the leaves take on a bitter flavor, but the seeds can be made into a flour for dough or eaten raw (after removing the husks).
5. Lamb’s Quarter (Chenapodium) This is a wild spinach and is one of the most popularly eaten wild plants, due to its mild flavor and high calcium content, significant sources of thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin. The leaves are 80- to 90-percent water, and the ample seeds can be ground into flour for cakes or eaten as a cereal. The entire plant is edible.
6. Prickly Lettuce (Lactuca serriola) Like a tough serrated version of regular lettuce, the young leaves of the prickly lettuce are mild in flavor and go great in a salad, but the mature plant becomes slightly toxic as the taste changes to bitter. One of its other names is Opium Lettuce as it has been used historically as a sleep inducer, pain reliever, and calmer of nerves. Use the mature leaves sparingly.
7. Orach (Chenopodiaceae) Also known as Goosefoot, Orach is related to Lamb’s Quarter and Amaranth, and can be found on salt marshes, beaches, and moist alkaline land. The seeds, leaves, and stems can be eaten. The leaves are mild, but can be somewhat salty, and the seeds contain a lot of starch.
8. Chickweed
10. Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia) The Prickly Pear Cactus has been feeding the populations of North America for thousands of years. The pads, flowers, stems, and fruit can all be eaten, and since the pads are nearly 100-percent water, it is a great source of liquid, not to mention antioxidants, carotenoids, and Vitamin C. Scrape off the spines; they can be eaten raw, boiled, or even grilled. Peel the pears from the spiny exterior and eat raw (the more purple, the sweeter).
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(Ribes aureum) The bark can be dried and powdered to be used as an antiinflammatory topical on wounds, while the small round fruits and yellow flowers can be eaten raw or cooked and possess a semi-sweet flavor. The ripe fruits can range from yellow to dark purple in color and contain a high level of pectin, which helps in making jam.
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9. Golden Currant
2
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(Stellaria media) The Chickweed is a readily abundant plant found most anywhere because of its adaptability and drought tolerance. The Chickweed leaves and stems can be eaten raw, but in cooked form it becomes chewy and stringy. It has a mild lettuce flavor and plays host to a wide variety of vitamins and minerals, including beta-carotene and calcium. Beware its two poisonous lookalikes, spurge and scarlet pimpernel. Chickweed has a tiny line of hairs running down the stem, whereas spurge and pimpernel do not.
1
11. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) The scourge of your lawn, right? The entire plant is edible, from the flower to the roots, but given the commonality of the dandelion, only pick them when they are away from house foundations, roads, and railroad beds. Picked before the sap turns milky, dandelions taste similar to spinach, but will get bitter as they mature. Watch out for dandelion lookalikes, as catsear grows in similar environments, but instead has fuzzy fat leaves and multiple flowers per plant.
10
9
11 FOR MORE EXAMPLES OF EDIBLE PLANTS, PLEASE SEE OUR COMPLETE STORY AT WWW.RECOILWEB.COM/EDIBLEPLANTS.
After SHTF is not the time to start learning about plant identification. “Testing whether a plant is poisonous or not by tasting it, rubbing it on your wrist, or anything else the Internet has taught us, is a recipe for disaster,” Nyerges warns. “The only effective way to identify edible plants in nature is by education. Know your plants. Spurge and chickweed are very similar looking. Chickweed is edible; spurge
Moth Leaf Mullein
Poison Hemlock
Jimson Weed
(Verbascum blattaria) Though the flower is usually a beautiful yellow, slightly pink or white, the spike-toothed leaves are toxic. In fact, the name blattaria is derived from the Latin word for cockroach, “blatta,” as the methanol extracted from it is used as a cockroach repellent. The leaves and seeds contain a mild narcotic and will induce sleep if eaten in large quantities.
(Conium maculatum) Sometimes confused with wild carrots, Hemlock grows all across North America as large 3- to 6-foot plants. Ingesting small quantities of this plant—flowers, stems, and/or the seeds of a mature example—can cause death in a couple of hours, thanks to the levels of coniine and pyridine alkaloids.
(Datura stramonium) The Latin word “datura” says it all, as that translates to “send to die.” The entire plant has an unpleasant taste and the leaves smell exactly like peanut butter. However, most poisonings occur when they are brewed as a tea or smoked for their hallucinogenic effects. In 1679 Jamestown, Robert Beverly wrote about soldiers who ate leaves in a salad experiencing “a very pleasant comedy.” Confusion, delirium, and hallucinations are the principal effects, with sleep and/or a coma generally following.
is not.” You must study the plants; here are three examples to stay clear of as if your life depended on it (which it just might).
SOURCE
Christopher Nyerges’ School of Self-Reliance | www.christophernyerges.com
WANNA TRADE PATCHES?
1
People who dig patches enjoy them for
from the sale of this patch goes to the
different reasons. Some wear them to
families of the 31 service members who
boost morale or provide identification,
died on August 6, 2011, when their
while others are worn to show brand
helicopter was shot down in Afghani-
loyalty (see the companies represented
stan. Operation Hawkeye is a charity
below) or just to get a laugh (like Griffon
project started that same year when
Industries’ Cool Story Bro patch).
Will Thomas, a Virginia teen athlete,
In the case of the Operation Hawkeye
asked donors to pledge money for every
PATCH:
Operation Hawkeye PVC COLORWAY:
N/A MSRP:
$7 URL:
www.uspatriottactical.com, www.ophawkeye.com 2
MAKE:
Knight’s Armament PATCH:
basket he made.
PVC patch (shown below), it’s to sup-
MAKE:
Operation Hawkeye
KAC Crest Patch
port a worthy cause. Every last penny
COLORWAY:
Black (shown), Green, Tan MSRP:
$5 URL:
www.kacgear.com
3
MAKE:
Advanced Armament Corp
5
MAKE:
Bravo Concealment
PATCH:
PATCH:
Silent Ninja
Bravo Logo
COLORWAY:
COLORWAY:
Black (shown), Tan
Black & White
MSRP:
MSRP:
$6
$8
URL:
URL:
www.advanced-armament. com
www.bravoconcealment.com
4
MAKE:
Griffon Industries PATCH:
Cool Story Bro COLORWAY:
Black (shown), Coyote Brown MSRP:
$8 URL:
www.griffonindustries.com
6
MAKE:
Trijicon PATCH:
Velcro Trijicon ACOG COLORWAY:
Black (shown), Khaki, Olive MSRP:
$3 URL:
www.trijicon.com
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4 6
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SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT SECTION
1 MAKE: MODEL:
SKU:
2 GLOCKSTORE Replacement Slide Cover Plate (Gold) LS007P-GD
This aluminum slide cover plate is far more durable that the original Glock plastic part. It’s available in six colors, including Gold.
MAKE: MODEL:
SKU:
3 MAKE: MODEL:
TRUGLO Tritium/fiber optic sights (Rear: Yellow, Front: Green) TRU01Y
SKU:
4 MAKE: MODEL:
GLOCKSTORE Stainless Steel Pin Kit (Gold) T0782GD
SKU:
Add style and pizazz to your Glock with the Gold Pin kit – Stainless Steel Pins are coated in Titanium Nitride for long lasting, corrosion proof protection. Includes: Trigger Pin, Locking Block Pin, and Trigger Housing Pin. Available for Gen 3 and Gen 4 Glocks.
Here’s the perfect combination of Tritium and Fiber Optics. Fiber Optics magnifies all available light to illuminate the “dots.” In low, or no light, Tritium maintains the brightness level without batteries or “charging.” With a single green dot in front and flanking yellow dots in back, it’s easy to get the correct sight picture even in total darkness.
5 MAKE: MODEL:
GLOCKSTORE Pyramid Trigger (Trigger: Black, Safety: Gold) T2001BG
SKU:
Shooting faster and more accurately is the goal of every serious Glock owner. If you’re a true Glock enthusiast, you’ve heard about the new Pyramid Trigger System, the premier trigger for Glock handguns. The Pyramid Trigger System improves upon every single aspect of the adjustable trigger concept, and you can truly customize your Glock with 11 different color combinations.
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6 GLOCKSTORE Extended Aluminum Mag Catch for Glocks (Gold) T0865GD
Because the push button is larger, it makes it easier and faster to perform magazine reloads. And you don’t have to alter, or change your grip, to depress the Magazine Release button! Available in six colors: Black, Silver, Red, Blue, Pink, and Gold!
MAKE: MODEL: SKU:
7 GLOCKSTORE Titanium Striker for Glock LS002
Increase accuracy by reducing lock time-the time it takes for the striker to hit the primer once you have pulled the trigger! This replacement part weighs 60% less than the original factory part. Additionally, because it is Titanium, you’ll enjoy superior corrosion resistance, heat tolerance, and strength. Backed with a lifetime warranty, and CNC machined to aerospace tolerance, you just drop it in and shoot!
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MAKE: MODEL: SKU:
GLOCKSTORE Aluminum Base Plate (Gold) T0962GD
Add beauty, and durability, with these solid aluminum base plates. Machined from bar aluminum to exacting standards, these are far better than the factory plastic plates. Sold in pairs, these plates will add a little touch of color, and class, to your Gold Glock. Available in six colors, Black, Silver, Red, Blue, Pink, and Gold!
8 MAKE: MODEL: SKU:
9 Lone Wolf Replacement Slide T0539
This Custom Slide is manufactured from forged 416 stainless and hardened to 42/46 Rockwell. This slide features front & rear cocking serrations, beveled rails, and lowered ejection port for more reliable ejection. The slide is cut to accept all Glock factory style front and rear sights. For Gen 3 Glocks only.
MAKE: MODEL: SKU:
10 GLOCKSTORE Raptor Cut Slide (Service) RAPTOR
Adding “Raptor Cuts” to your slide enable fast cycling and less recoil, allowing you to shoot faster and more accurately. This is a precision “cut service” that utilizes your existing slide and is available for all Glocks.
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MAKE: MODEL:
SKU:
11 GLOCKSTORE Titanium Nitride Finish (Slide Only) GPGOLD
Customize your Glock and make it unique and exciting with a Titanium Nitride Slide! Bright gold in color, and extremely durable, it is the ceramic coating of choice when both wear resistance and appearance are important. This will make your Glock unique, durable, and beautiful. Many other colors available, call for consultation.
MAKE: MODEL: SKU:
12 StormLake Conversion Barrel SLB08-C
Storm Lake Conversion Barrels are machined from solid “firearms grade” 416R stainless steel bar stock, and hardened to 40-42 HRC. Broach Cut rifling, at one turn per 16 inches (left hand twist), is compatible with both jacketed and lead bullets. Porting and threading are also available. Proudly made in the USA.
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MAKE: MODEL: SKU:
13 GLOCKSTORE Titanium Safety Plunger LS004
This Safety Plunger, and included replacement spring, helps provide a smoother, lighter trigger pull… resulting in better accuracy! Titanium is a harder than steel and able to be more polished. The surface area has also been slightly rounded, reducing the friction of the trigger bar as it glides over the safety plunger.
MAKE: MODEL:
SKU:
14 GLOCKSTORE Extended Slide Stop Lever (Gold) GESSL01GD
The Glock Factory Extended Slide Stop Lever is a little longer than the standard piece. It provides better leverage, easier access, and the ability to maintain the same grip when accessing the lever. It also reduces recovery time for both strong and weak hands.
MAKE: MODEL: SKU:
GLOCKSTORE Heavy Tungsten Guide Rod T1106
Add the extra weight of a tungsten guide rod to help control muzzle flip. The weight feels good in your hands and we guarantee tighter “double tap” groups. Five times heavier than the factory plastic version, and almost twice as heavy as stainless steel, it’s a “drop in” installation, with no gunsmith required!
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Tap on an item to go directly to its GLOCKSTORE product page.
UnderTech Undercover products are worn by the men and women of the Secret Service, FBI, DEA, and the TSA… as well as dozens of other agencies and police departments nationwide. All of our concealment products, from shirts and shorts to brief’s and belly bands, are tailored to our exacting standards to meet, and fully exceed, our customers expectations. The all-weather compression fabric fits like a second skin. It’s comfortable enough to wear everyday, in any environment, but strong enough to hold even full sized duty weapons close to your body; without sagging and minimizing print through. This advanced fabric will actually cool your body as you wear it! Law enforcement professionals, who carry concealed weapons on a daily basis, depend on our products to be comfortable, cool, and extremely effective. And now you can too.
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2B
1A
MAKE: MODEL:
UnderTech Undercover Men’s Concealment V-Neck Shirt COLORS: Black, white SKU: T0420
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MAKE: MODEL:
3
MAKE: UnderTech Undercover MODEL: Original Belly Band COLORS: Black, white SKU: B0048
4
MAKE: MODEL:
5
1B
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UnderTech Undercover Men’s Concealment Crew-Neck Shirt COLORS: Black, white SKU: T0293
UnderTech Undercover Men’s Concealment Briefs COLORS: Black, white SKU: T1017 MAKE: MODEL:
UnderTech Undercover Women’s Concealment Short Shorts COLORS: Black, white SKU: T1118
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7 Glock Field Knife GLK01
This Glock knife is military issue for the Austrian Armed Forces. It’s 7” blade is extremely sharp and is made of high carbon steel. The handle is made of high-strength polymer and the backbone of the blade features a wicked saw that will cut through just about anything. If you own a Glock pistol, you need the Glock Field Knife.
MAKE: MODEL: SKU:
8 Glock Hooded Sweatshirt T0467
This is a “must have” item for the well-dressed Glock enthusiast. This hooded long sleeve sweatshirt is made to last, tailored from 9 ounce, color fast 60/40, ring spun, combed cotton/poly rib knit... with cuffs, waistband, kangaroo pouch, and a hood with matching draw cord. This classic black jacket has a large white “Glock Perfection” logo on the back and a small logo on the front.
Tap on an item to go directly to its GLOCKSTORE product page.
MAKE: MODEL: SKU:
9 GLOCKSTORE In-Line Magazine Carriers T0819, T0820
Designed by Ichiro Nagata, this pouch is unlike any other. The removable flap covers and secures the five individual magazine pockets, depending on the model. It also attaches securely to either your belt or a M.O.L.L.E. vest. It’s made from double layered, Black or Tan, 1000 denier cordura and mil-spec webbing and available in sizes to hold double stack, single stack and AR15/M16 magazines. Also available in an 8 magazine model.
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UnderTech Undercover MODEL: The Roxie Concealment Purse SKU: T1130
MAKE:
MAKE: MODEL: SKU:
This beautiful bag offers a concealed zipper pocket with an adjustable holster located on the side of the bag. The exterior is a smooth faux leather with gunmetal hardware, accent studs, and a front flap pocket. This bag offers two shoulder straps and lots of space.
Our Tactical Concealed Carry Jacket is both attractive and functional, featuring 7 pockets for your standard stuff and 2 very large concealment pockets for your handgun and magazines. Concealment pockets feature a Velcro lining that firmly secures the Velcro holster and/or magazine accessories. One handgun holster is included with the jacket.
MAKE:
UnderTech Undercover MODEL: Tactical Concealment Jacket SKU: T1028
Glock Agency Cap T0965
Absolutely the coolest and best Glock hat to date! The Agency Cap is made of rip stop material and features a Velcro patch on front to accept any Velcro logo patch. One size fits all and it’s available in Black or Khaki.
1 MAKE: MODEL: SKU:
2 Galco Royal Guard™ T0029
The Galco Royal Guard™ offers the ultimate in comfort and durability. Worn inside the pants, and constructed of premium, natural color horsehide, it allows real-world concealment of even a large defensive pistol. Made with the rough side of the leather facing out, the Royal Guard’s innovative design creates a smooth leather pocket reinforced for sturdiness, protection and easy re-holstering.
MAKE: MODEL: SKU:
3 DeSantis Cozy Partner DE028
Most Cozy Partner holsters features a tension device and precise molding for handgun retention. A memory band retains the holster’s shape for easy one handed re-holstering and a 1.75” split belt loop is standard. Available in tan or black unlined leather. Must be worn with a belt. Not all models have all features. See our website for complete details.
MAKE: MODEL: SKU:
4 DeSantis Sky Cop Holster T0353
The Skycop cross draw holster is designed to accommodate most large and midsized handguns. It is detail molded from premium grade saddle leather and holds your gun high off the belt line, for added concealment and comfort when sitting. The Sky Cop accommodates belts up to 1.5” wide and is available for right and left-hand shooters in black, unlined leather.
MAKE: MODEL: SKU:
5 MAKE: MODEL: SKU:
BLACKHAWK! SERPA Lock Holster T0490
6 LaserMax Internal Laser T0218
LaserMax is the world’s only totally internal laser sight, increasing accuracy and improving aiming speeds. Its patented design replaces the original recoil spring guide rod and the laser beam actually pulsates, increasing its visibility. No modifications are necessary to your handgun; it installs in minutes and fits in all standard holsters. Everything you need is included!
The patented Serpa lock holster engages the trigger guard as you holster the pistol, and won’t let go until you release it. The release is made using your normal drawing motion, with the trigger finger beside the holster body. This unique holster comes with both belt loop and paddle platforms.
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7 Glock Gunsmith’s Bench Mat T0298
This great gunsmith mat has the worldwide Glock office listings on the left side, the internal parts breakdown in the center and an explanation of the unique Glock safeties on the right. Truly a “must have” for the Glock enthusiast.
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Lyman Products MODEL: Deluxe Hammer & Punch Set SKU: T0427 This compact set includes everything you need to disassemble and work on most modern firearms. It includes an 8” (20cm) hammer that has three different heads; brass, nylon and steel. This allows you to work on your guns without marring the finish. Comes complete in a wooden storage case.
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Glock Factory Magazines HCM01
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These are Glock factory, latest generation handgun magazines; brand new, metal lined and drop free. If the magazine is longer than the grip it will protrude, as when a 17 round 9mm magazine is fitted into the G19 or the G26. In this case, we suggest the Magazine Sleeve for better ergonomics and a cleaner appearance.
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10 GLOCKSTORE Custom Glock Slide Cover Plates T0996
Make a statement on your Glock with our Custom Slide Cover Plates. Machined in the USA from aircraftgrade aluminum bar stock, these are much stronger than the original plastic. Select your favorite from nearly 40 designs or visit our website to create your own.
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Veridian X5L Universal Green Laser/ Tactical Light T1020
The 154 lumen taclight is bigger, brighter and blinding… with beam intensity and an explosive strobe. The brilliant Viridian green laser is visible both day or night. And an arsenal of custom modes lets you preprogram your tactics, and then adjust “on the fly” to maintain the advantage. Note: Handgun MUST have tactical rail for compatibility.
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12 C-MORE STS (Small Tactical Sight) T0853
The STS is C-MORE Systems’ smallest reflex sight. The STS “heads up” display provides an unobstructed sight picture in which the red dot hovers on the sight line, illuminating the point of impact, creating the fastest target acquisition in existence! It uses a glass beam-splitter lens; hard coated for maximum scratch resistance and light transmission.
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Sight Master Sight Pusher Tool T1003
The new Sight Master Sight Pusher Tool is beefier, and more robust, than any Sight Tool on the market today. Notice how big the main screw and bolt are compared to anything on the market? It’s fully adjustable so it can easily be used on most modern handguns, for both the front and rear sights.
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14 GLOCKSTORE Heavy Extended Aluminum Magazine Base Plate T1083
The GLOCKSTORE extended aluminum magazine base plates are machined from a solid block of aluminum. Designed specifically to add weight to the magazine, they drop free faster and more consistently. Available in Silver, Red, Blue and Black, you will also be able to spot your magazines at a glance.
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GLOCKSTORE Falcon Grips T0973
Falcon Grips are the best of the best, offering superior materials with excellent fit and function. The one-piece design allows full and effective coverage of your Glock handgun, giving you more control of your firearm, reducing muzzle flip, and increasing your speeds from shot to shot. Available in Mild, Medium, and Spicy Hot textures!
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GLOCKSTORE Tungsten Competition Recoil Spring for Glocks w/ Dual Spring T0913
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GLOCKSTORE 3.5 Pound Connector LS003
This replaces the factory connector and provides a lighter trigger pull. This results in increased accuracy by reducing the amount of muzzle movement when pulling the trigger. One size fits ALL Glock models. One of the best “cost-to-benefit” performance parts for your Glock, this is an easy to install, drop-in part.
Advanced shooters know that to get the most out of their gun, shooting style, and ammunition combination they need to test different spring weights for their guide rod assembly. These are drop-in, high quality tungsten guide rods with capture springs in a variety of weights.
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4 GLOCKSTORE Skeletonized Striker T0590
Increase accuracy by reducing lock time--the time it takes for the striker to hit the primer once you have pulled the trigger! This replacement part weighs 60% less than the original factory part. Additionally, because it is coated with Titanium Nitride, you’ll enjoy superior corrosion resistance, heat tolerance, and strength. Backed with a lifetime warranty, and machined to aerospace tolerance, you just drop it in and shoot.
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5 GLOCKSTORE Trigger Reset Kit for Glock T0380
This kit includes a specially designed striker, with modified trigger bar and trigger housing, to give you a consistent, realistic trigger pull while effectively resetting itself. This allows for rapid “shot after shot” practice, no matter how fast you pull the trigger. Combined with the Magic Bullet laser training system, this becomes the most dynamic, dry fire/laser fire training tool available.
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6 GLOCKSTORE Competition Spring Kit T0863
This is the new, and improved, ultimate competition shooter spring kit. This kit will give your trigger a smoother, lighter, and crisper feel to your trigger pull. It comes with 3 different firing pin springs to allow you to adjust your trigger pull exactly how you’d like it!
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GLOCKSTORE Glock Survival Parts Kit GCPRK01
This convenient, zippered pouch carries all the parts that need to be periodically replaced, or could possible break, in the normal wear and tear of just shooting your Glock. Each part is individually packaged and labeled. The kit also includes a exploded-view printed diagram showing the Glock, all its parts, and how they fit together.
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HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS Quality Tools at Ridiculously Low Prices FACTORY DIRECT TO YOU! How does Harbor Freight Tools sell high quality tools at such ridiculously low prices? We buy direct from the factories who also supply other major brands and sell direct to you. It’s just that simple! Come see for yourself at one of our 400 + Stores Nationwide and use this 20% Off Coupon on one of our 7,000 products*, plus pick up a Free 6 Piece Screwdriver Set, a $4.99 value. We stock Shop Equipment, Hand Tools, Tarps, Compressors, Air & Power Tools, Woodworking Tools, Welders, Tool Boxes, Generators, and much more. • Over 25 Million Satisfied Customers! • 1 Year Competitor’s Low Price Guarantee • No Hassle Return Policy! • 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed! • Over 400 Stores Nationwide NOBODY BEATS OUR QUALITY, SERVICE AND PRICE!
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6 PIECE SCREWDRIVER SET ITEM 47770/61313 REG. PRICE $4.99 LIMIT 1 - Only available with qualifying minimum purchase (excludes gift value). Coupon good at our stores or HarborFreight.com or by calling 800-423-2567. Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or prior purchase. Offer good while supplies last. Shipping & Handling charges may apply if not picked up in-store. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 12/6/13. Limit one coupon per customer per day.
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800 RATED WATTS/ 900 MAX. WATTS PORTABLE GENERATOR
NEW!
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Item 69381 shown
9 FT. 6" x 7 FT. 4" CAMOUFLAGE TARP
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Item 47770 shown
$
™
LOT NO. 46411
4
$ 99
2900 LB. CAPACITY
LOT NO. 47257/61585
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9
REG. $ 99 $29PRICE .99
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Item 69644 shown
$
LOT NO. 69644/ 60498/ 69890/ 98085
17
REG. 99 $24PRICE .99
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REG. PRICE $99.99
Item 69340 shown
LOT NO. 69340/ 60790/90305/61316
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35999
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1500 WATT DUAL TEMPERATURE HEAT GUN (572°/1112°) LOT NO. 96289
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7
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27 LED PORTABLE WORKLIGHT/FLASHLIGHT
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20%
OFF ANY SINGLE ITEM!
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MECHANIC'S GLOVES LARGE X-LARGE LOT NO. 93640/60447
Item 93640 shown
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$ 59
64%
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• "The Undisputed King of the Garage" – Four Wheeler Magazine
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Item 68053 shown
REG. WEIGHS 27 LBS. PRICE $119.99 3-1/2 PUMPS LIFTS MOST VEHICLES!
5999
LOT NO. 68053/ 69252/60569
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3 TON HEAVY DUTY JACK STANDS
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LOT NO. 38846/69597/ 61196
$
1699
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500 LB. CAPACITY ALUMINUM CARGO CARRIER
Item 92655 shown
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14999
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$
Item 67847 shown
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RAPID PUMP® 1.5 TON ALUMINUM RACING JACK
LOT NO. 67847/69091/61454
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shown
2.5 HP, 21 GALLON, 125 PSI VERTICAL AIR COMPRESSOR
LOT NO. 93641/60448
YOUR CHOICE!
LOT NO. 67227/69567/ 60566 Item 38846
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$ 99 $ REG. PRICE $25.99
68216/69456
5499
$
ON ALL HAND TOOLS!
NO. SAVE LOT68784/ $290 69387 SAVE
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Item 68784 shown
36 LED SOLAR SECURITY LIGHT
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Includes 3.2 volt, 600 mAh Li-ion battery pack.
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44", 13 DRAWER INDUSTRIAL QUALITY ROLLER CABINET
6" DIGITAL CALIPER Includes two 1.5V button cell batteries.
REG. PRICE $179.99
NEW! SUPER HIGH GLOSS FINISH!
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47257 shown
8999
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R ! PE N REG. PRICE $7.99 SU PO WEIGHS 306 LBS. U CO
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LOT NO. 66619/ 60338/69381
LIFETIME WARRANTY
LOT NO. 92655/ 69688/ 60771
6999
REG. PRICE $129.99
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MODEL: CAITLIN J. WOOD | PHOTOGRAPHER: JORGE NUÑEZ | GUN: FNH FNS-9 | HOLSTER: DSG ARMS ALPHA (MODIFIED) | GLOVES: MECHANIX WEAR THE ORIGINAL GLOVE | BACKPACK: ECHO SIGMA GET-HOME-BAG
FALKEN TIRE OFF-ROAD RUBICON
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