UN12 - 005 Magazine by UN12 Magazine

U.S. $12.95

Featured Material

• Warfighter Pack Setups • A Visit To Boogeyman Customs

• Variable Low Power Scope Buyer’s Guide

• DIY: Applying Carbide To Your Gun • Building An HK G36C Pistol Clone

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

Feature Firearms

Custom

HK VP9

Rebuilt From The Ground Up

Transport of Dangerous Goods Ammunition, such as for rifles, handguns, shotguns, starter’s pistols and power tools that contain explosive material are dangerous goods listed under Class 1.4S. The information presented here is for the following UN numbers only:

Included

UN12 Magazine 1st Anniversary Patch

Billet Rifle Systems

BRS47-SC An AR/AK Hybrid

ISSUE

UN12mag.com

005

S M A L L

S I Z E ,

B I G

S T Y L E

M I C R O 9 E S V ( B L A C K ) & M I C R O 9 E S V ( G R AY ) AVA I L A B L E I N 9 M M L E A R N M O R E AT K I M B E R A M E R I C A . C O M

MADE IN AMERICA MADE IN A MERIC A

WHAT ALL GUNS SHOULD BE

(888) 243-4522 KIMBERAMERICA.COM

56 BRS47-SC Firearm Feature

UN12 Issue 005

UN12 / Issue 005

Table of Contents

82 Customized HK VP9 Firearm Feature

130

TommyBuilt T36 General Feature

Kel-Tec CP33 & KS7 General Feature

Dead Air Armament SwitchSight Product Review

132

Polymer80 Hybrid Compact Frame General Feature

Sneak Peek General Feature

BoogeyMan Customs Customization Feature

100

Custom AR9 Pistol Firearm Feature

Warfighter Packs General Feature

114

The Valley of Death Outdoor Feature

Sub-MOA 300 Blackout AR-15 Pistol Firearm Feature

122

Variable Low Power Scope Buyer’s Guide

Personalized Knife Customization Feature

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

DISCLAIMERS: UN12 is created for MATURE AUDIENCES and may include adult language and humor. PRICES shown are deemed accurate at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice. FIREARM SAFETY is paramount. Obey firearm safety rules at all times. UN12 assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information. The opinions expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of UN12.

TOC

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

20 Every Day Carry

Dept.

126

Editor’s Letter

Shoot This Drill

136

New Products

Influencers

137

Morale Patch

Guns of IG

138

Do It Yourself: Applying Carbide

Retailer Directory

126

Booth 6502 06

UN12 / Issue 003

005

DEPT.

Editor’s Letter

—

As we enter the New Year, one can’t help but wonder

sat down with founder Terry Paroz to see what inspires

Publisher

what’s in store for us firearms enthusiasts. The industry

him, how he got his start, and what he’s up to now. Also,

Howard C Lim

and fellow enthusiasts alike are constantly coming up

if you’re in the market for a low power variable scope,

with new and innovative products for us to drool over.

you’re in luck. We showcase more than a dozen of the

Editors

New innovations and boundless creativity really get us

latest models in an extensive buyer’s guide. Optics are

The UN12 Creative Team

going, and we’re looking forward to the new creations

some of the costliest accessories you can invest in so

gunsmiths, customizers, artisans, and garage tinkerers

we thought it was only fair to expand our coverage of

Technical Editor

will come up with in 2019.

them. Elsewhere our gear expert, Charles “Chip” Lasky,

Michael Penhall

UN12 is a print magazine passion project that celebrates the creation of unique firearm builds, innovative technologies, and the artistic aspects of

shows us three mission-driven warfighter pack setups for real-world operations. It’s a truly fascinating read. We thank you for your support of UN12 and for your

Creative Direction James Ho, Jerry Tsai

the firearms world. We believe adding elements of

support of print magazines as a whole. As you can

one’s own personality to a gun or piece of gear is

probably tell by the print quality and sheer heft of this

Art Director

something special that should be celebrated with fellow

issue, we don’t like to cut corners. Our staff gives each

James Ho

enthusiasts. We are here to do just that. In this issue we get an up-close look at several fully customized firearms, including a fully built HK VP9 pistol. You’d be hard pressed to find another just like it. Another unique build we feature is the BRS47-SC, a one-of-a-kind, side-charging, piston-driven

“New innovations and boundless creativity really get us going, and we’re looking forward to what 2019 will bring.”

AR/AK hybrid that looks as

issue of UN12 its all in terms of time, effort, and materials. We are proud to create what we believe is the highest quality firearms publication around. This issue makes a full year since we launched and we thought it appropriate to include a very unique morale patch.

Contributors Martin Anders, Jim Barnett, Jay Canter, Danny Chang, Frank Chu, DMG, Michael Grey, Tu Lam, Charles Lasky, Chris Lee, Jody Lewis, Michael Penhall, Lauren Short, TracerX, James York

Special Thanks Aristotle Bartolome, Roberto Flores, George Huang, John Hwang, Allison Lai, Jeff Lai, Ashlii Rorie, OC Armory

Instead of collaborating with a partner as we have done in

Copy Editor

the past, we present to you our

Frank Stroud

good as it shoots. We also examine a pair of AR pistols,

UN12 1st Anniversary Patch. This special patch comes

one chambered in 300 Blackout and the other in 9mm.

in two colorways, one more limited than the other. Like

Advertising Sales

Both are excellent examples of the unique ways you can

UN12, both versions are made in small quantities and

Danny Chang

outfit this popular platform.

will not be reissued.

For those who want to get a sneak peek at what’s in

We’re always looking for innovators and cool custom

store for us this year, we reached out to a few select

guns to feature. If you have a firearm or other piece of

manufacturers and asked them for a glimpse into the

gear that you customized, we want to know about it.

future. They provided us with plenty of new items to

Tag us @un12mag on Instagram if you have something

gawk at. Some are just coming to market and others

that UN12 readers would like to see. Let’s continue to

are expected to be released soon. We also travel to a

build UN12 together. Sound off and let us know what

shooter’s heaven called High Bar Homestead to handle

you think we got right or what we could do better on our

and shoot Keltec’s latest firearm releases.

Facebook page at: /un12mag.

Ad Coordinator Frank Stroud

Printed in the USA

When we met the guys at Boogeyman Customs, we knew that we had to share the fine work that they do. We

— The UN12 Creative Team 005-2019

UN12 / Issue 005

Triarc Systems Trilok Wedge Mount 7-Sided M-LOK Rail

DEPT.

New Products

SEE WHAT’S NEW FOR 2019

Developed through a partnership with ZEV Techologies, this rail was designed to combat the challenges that many face with modern rail systems. Instead of adjusting your gear, your habits, and your muscle memory to the system, the Trilok Rail adjusts to you. It attaches to the rifle through a strong wedge lock system and a steel barrel nut. A 7-sided M-LOK System allows flexibility for attaching various accessories. Integrated anti-rotational QD mounts are built in to eliminate extra bulk. $275 triarcsystems.com

Lightforce Enforcer IR The new Enforcer IR LED searchlight introduces Fresnel technology combined with unrivaled IR performance to deliver a complete IR searchlight solution. The specially designed lens produces a tight beam for maximum light output and performance. With a lightweight ergonomic grip and built-in battery indicator, the new LED IR Enforcer can run between 2 and 4 hours at full power depending on the model, extendable up to 8 hours with an optional battery. $260 lightforce.com

0470

Tactical Walls FOV x TW Concealment Flag

Seekins Precision Procomp 10x

The FOV x TW Concealment Flag is a magneticlocking, wall-mounted staging and concealment solution. It was created in collaboration with Flags of Valor. The front cover is a Flags of Valor wooden flag handcrafted by U.S. combat veterans in the heart of Virginia. The hidden compartment is handcrafted at Tactical Walls in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.

Seekins’ AR-15 and AR-10 compatible stock mounts to a rifle-length receiver tube. It features a rigid and lightweight adjustable cheek and recoil pad with solid lock-up. Customize your length of pull with included spacers. At the butt end, a rubber recoil pad comfortably absorbs shock for faster follow-up shots. Three anti-rotation QD sling swivel mounts allow for flexible sling attachment positions.

$375

$195

tacticalwalls.com

Arc’teryx Kyanite Hoody The Kyanite is a durable technical hoody that performs as a mid layer or standalone piece. It’s designed to provide warmth, mobility, and moisture management for active people. It features Polartec Power Stretch Pro, which has a nylon face for abrasion resistance, and the fabric’s four-way stretch combines with articulated patterning and gusseted underarms for exceptional freedom of movement. $179 arcteryx.com

Bushnell AR Optics TRS-26 Red Dot The Bushnell AR Optics TRS-26 Red Dot goes beyond its predecessor with improvements in several key areas. It is rated for 50,000 hours of battery life and delivers a brighter, crisper 3-MOA dot with push-button operation in a compact package. Nitrogen-purged fog-proofing ensures interior optical surfaces won’t fog due to humidity or rapid temperature change.

seekinsprecision.com

Unity Tactical Cold Weather Liner (CWL)

Coast HP10R

$160

Equipped with Coast’s Pure Beam Focusing Optic with Slide Focus, the 1,000-lumen HP10R can shift between a super-wide flood beam or spot mode with transition halo at varying distances and brightness, all controllable with one hand. For those looking for tactical features, this light includes a strobe in between the high- and low-light modes.

bushnell.com

$179 coastportland.com

Unity Tactical’s CWL is designed to install in any helmet with Velcro pads. By integrating directly with the helmet, the CWL creates a barrier against the elements with microfiber fleece to keep the wearer’s head warm. The material thickness creates minimal or no displacement of pads that can cause the helmet to ride improperly, as is the case while wearing a standard watch cap under the shell. This ensures correct shell coverage of the head and proper alignment of night vision goggles and fitting of communications gear. 100% Berry Compliant. $95.00 unitytactical.com

UN12 / Issue 005

ZTKNIVES.COM

Faxon Firearms Patriot Slide for M&P Full Size w/ RMR Cut, Suppressor Sights The Faxon Patriot slide is the perfect upgrade for your fullsize Smith & Wesson M&P pistol. Manufactured in-house from 17-4 stainless steel, Faxon slides for M&P are the first of their kind on the market. Each slide begins its life as bar stock, which allows for milling of features that are functionally and aesthetically superior to a factory slide that has been milled by a third party. $699 faxonfirearms.com

SureFire Stilleto The Stiletto’s slim design allows it to be drawn and activated from a pocket as quickly as a knife. It is a rechargeable, highoutput, handheld flashlight that’s ideal for everyday carry. The primary switch on the body activates a wide 650-lumen, medium 250-lumen, or dialed-down 5-lumen beam for tasks using a MaxVision beam reflector. The tactical switch activates high output only and has an optional high-frequency strobe. $109 surefire.com

Nomad Defense Co. Nomad 9 Frame The Nomad 9 is a ground-up reimagining of the Glock pistol platform. The team at Nomad Defense Co. took a close look at every aspect of practical pistol design and created a pistol frame that offers real-world solutions to many of the inherent shortcomings seen in most production-level pistols. The Nomad 9 Frame is sold as a stripped frame and is compatible with Glock 19 Gen4 components. It ships with three interchangeable backstraps, a trigger housing retention pin, and a backstrap retention pin. $200 nomaddefenseco.com

Streamlight TLR-8 Experience the new 500-lumen, 640-660nm redlaser-equipped TLR-8. The small and mighty TLR-8 securely fits a broad range of full-size and compact handguns. The low-profile design prevents snagging, and a “safe off” feature prevents accidental activation to preserve battery life. Its rail grip clamp system securely attaches and detaches quickly and safely without tools and without placing your hands in front of the muzzle. $350 streamlight.com

MTM Case-Guard Tactical Pistol Case 6 When transporting multiple guns to and from the range it pays to protect them, and this case is designed to do just that. Safely store and transport up to six semiautomatic handguns with room for magazines or other gear. The case is lined with dense foam that cradles each gun individually. A water-resistant O-ring seal guards against dust and moisture. It also features triple tabs for multiple padlock use. Outside measurements: 19” x 15.75” x 8”. $50 mtmcase-gard.com

DEPT.

Patch-05

Good Morale Text by JAMES YORK

Images by MICHAEL GREY

hen we set out to create UN12, our goal was to craft a print publication that focused on the

to match SIG’s Stealth Gray and FDE. We were excited to work with the talented groups

is a rare event—and rarer still is its success. To mark the occasion, we present our UN12 1st Anniversary

customization of firearms and unique gear and the

at Aero Precision and Aprilla Design on Issue 003’s

patch. Produced again by Aprilla Design, the patch

innovators behind them, to promote high aesthetics

morale patch. The UN12 x Aero Precision ATLAS

features our tagline “Dangerous Goods” and was

in the firearms realm and celebrate all-out badassery.

R-ONE patch was made to commemorate the

created in red and orange colorways. For those who

The idea was to pull out all the stops and build a

release of Aero Precision’s newest handguard. This

were able to attend SHOT Show 2019, a special

premium product the industry hadn’t seen before.

great-looking patch was formed from PVC and

SHOT version of the patch was distributed, too.

We may be a small outfit that’s just gotten off the

included every detail of an ATLAS R-ONE-equipped

ground, but we believe we’ve succeeded.

Aero Precision AR-15. It was produced in black and

colorway, you still might be able to get it by locating

tan colorways.

a back issue from one of our dealers or on our

One thing we wanted to include with each issue of UN12 was a limited-edition morale patch.

We worked once again with the Aprilla Design

If you’re missing a patch, either in design or

website. See the Retail Directory at the back of this

Morale patches are key lifestyle items that firearms

team on Issue 004’s morale patch, this time

issue for dealer locations. Back issues are scarce

enthusiasts such as ourselves enjoy collecting,

collaborating with SB Tactical, inventors of the

and will not be offered again once they’re sold out.

giving, and trading. These cleverly designed morsels

ground-breaking pistol-stabilizing brace. We credit

Which UN12 patches were you able to get ahold of?

of art are rooted in the military and oftentimes convey

their invention with making the PDW-style pistol

Show us by tagging us on Instagram @un12mag.

a message, many times funny and sometimes

craze what it is today. The UN12 x SB Tactical patch

Whether you have them all or are just starting your

poignant. We have been fortunate to collaborate with

showcases SB Tactical’s SBA3 AR pistol brace in

collection, we thank you for your continued support

likeminded individuals and companies to make these

Aprilla’s iconic cartoon style. This patch came in

and good morale.

morale patches possible.

gray and black variations.

[ UN12 ]

If you’re just joining us, we’d like to review with you

For Issue 005, we decided to break away from

the patches that UN12 and our partners have created

our tradition of collaboration and craft an original

Are there any unique places you display your patch

thus far. If you’ve been along for the ride since the

design that celebrates our first full year in existence.

collection at? Show us by tagging us on Instagram

beginning, we deeply appreciate your support.

In a world where print media

@un12mag.

Issue 001’s morale patch launched with UN12 and

is rapidly evolving, the

helped set the magazine’s tone. We couldn’t have

launch of a premium print

found a better partner than TNVC for our inaugural

magazine like our own

patch. Inspired by TNVC’s original “Lights Out Motherfucker” (LOMF) patch, our UN12 x TNVC LOMF patch took different versions of the highly sought-after original LOMF patches and melded them together into one design. Charles “Chip” Lasky designed the originals and also created this new version for us. This patch was made in two colorways, one in primarily tan tones and the other in a camouflage pattern. It’s still one of our favorites. Our partner for Issue 002’s patch was premier firearms manufacturer SIG Sauer. It was an honor to work with one of the world’s prominent firearms brands on this project. We also partnered with patchmaker Aprilla Design Group, who helped create the artwork for the UN12 x SIG Sauer MCX Virtus Patrol morale patch. This patch featured not only the MCX Virtus Patrol rifle, but also details such as SIG’s suppressor and optic. The colorways were created

UN12 / Issue 005

TACTICAL GEAR

emdomusa.com

L.E./Military discount for all active duty personanel

Every Day Carry

Every Day Carry / 11

04 Tokyo Pipe Co. Douglass Field L Lighter

MSRP: $69 urbanedcsupply.com

05 Shure SE215-CL Sound Isolating Earphones MSRP: $89 shure.com

hat’s your carry style?

Are you strictly a

06 Casio

function-over-form person,

Edifice

or do you like to inject some

MSRP: $175

style and flair into your

edifice-watches.com

everyday carry setup? For

many of us, it’s a mixture of both. What you carry on

SOG

your person on a daily basis

Baton Q3 Multi-Tool

can be a reflection of your

MSRP: $70

personality, occupation, and

sogknives.com

lifestyle. Whether you wear

dress shoes or steel-toed boots to work, there’s an

Good Worth & Co.

EDC setup that’s appropriate

Best Wishes Phillips Screwdriver

for everyone. In every edition of Every

MSRP: $22

Day Carry, we dive into

bowlsla.com

two different EDC setups

that contain useful and sometimes fun or even

RovyVon

lifesaving items that can

Aurora A1 Polycarbonate Flashlight

help you survive—or just get

through your day. Take a look

MSRP: $27

at the following collections of

rovyvon.com

some of the latest EDC items

on the market to see if you

find something that you’d

Countycomm

add to your everyday carry.

Embassy Pen (Blk) MARP: $75

countycomm.com

Keith Titanium Pocket Flask MSRP: $39 keithtitanium.com

The James Brand The Mehlville MSRP: $60 thejamesbrand.com

Herschel

Wallet/Passport

Tops Knives

MSRP: $25

Backup

herschel.com

MSRP: $75

topsknives.com

Sandisk USB 3.0 Thumbdrive 64GB MSRP: $18 amazon.com

UN12 / Issue 005

13 Juteni Leather Wallet iPhone XS Max Case MSRP: $18 amazon.com

UN12mag.com

Premium EDC Items Tokyo Pipe Co. Douglass Field L Lighter MSRP: $69 URL: urbanedcsupply.com Our 2¢: The Douglass Field lighter reminds us of vintage WWI trench lighters—only better. Each is hand-machined by a master craftsman down to 0.001-inch tolerances. This obsessive craftsmanship is carried throughout every aspect of the lighter. Due to its airtight construction, the Field L is known to prevent fluid from evaporating, allowing it to last up to a full year without refilling.

Casio Edifice

MSRP: $175 URL: edifice-watches.com Our 2¢: Casio delivers in both the functionality and style departments with its line of Edifice wristwatches. Known for reliable function and precise timekeeping, this Edifice, model number EF527D-1AV, comes in a chronograph style with date feature. It is water-resistant to 100 meters.

Good Worth & Co. Best Wishes Phillips Screwdriver

MSRP: $22 URL: bowlsla.com Our 2¢: Good Worth & Co. is known for its attitude-imbued accessories and the Best Wishes screwdriver is no exception. Shaped like one of our favorite fingers, the keychain-ready tool can help you stick it to any loose Phillipshead screw you come across.

MI Combat Rifle Front Sight For AR-15/M4/M16 Rifles and other platforms ◆ Low profile .437” when folded down, flips up to Mil-Spec sight height ◆ Uses standard A2 front sight post ◆ Dual locking detent springs for added reliability and crisp positioning ◆ Constructed of ordnance grade phosphate finished steel and hard coated 6061 aluminum ◆ 1.5 MOA per click adjustments ◆ 100% Made in U.S.A. with MI lifetime warranty

MI Combat Rifle Front Sight #MI-CRS-F

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Retail

$84.95

MI Combat Rifle Rear Sight For AR-15/M4/M16 Rifles and other platforms ◆ Super low profile .388” centerline when folded down, flips up to Mil-Spec sight height ◆ Intermediate aperture for long-range precision and close range rapid engagement ◆ Dual locking detent springs for added reliability and crisp positioning ◆ Constructed of ordnance grade phosphate finished steel and hard coated 6061 aluminum ◆ Rifle .5 MOA / Carbine .65 MOA click adjustments ◆ 100% Made in U.S.A. with MI lifetime warranty

MI Combat Rifle Rear Sight #MI-CRS-R

SOG Baton Q3 Multi-Tool MSRP: $70 URL: sogknives.com Our 2¢: The sleek Baton Q3 allows you to have a multi-tool in a non-traditional brick shape. The Baton Q3 is easy to deploy, can slide into just about any place you need to store it, and contains all the classic tools that you will probably need. It can fill the needs of those in office and administrative work or in the field.

UN12 / Issue 005

RovyVon Aurora A1 Polycarbonate Flashlight

Shure SE215-CL Sound Isolating Earphones

MSRP: $27 URL: rovyvon.com Our 2¢: The RovyVon Aurora A1 is a budgetminded flashlight that’s perfect for keychain attachment. The 2-inch-long flashlight packs 550 lumens of power thanks to its CREE XP-G3 LED. Its built-in 130mAh lithium polymer battery can be charged via the Micro USB charging port in only 45 minutes.

MSRP: $70 URL: shure.com Our 2¢: Featuring a fit that keeps ambient sounds out and Single Dynamic Drivers that produce clear sound with deep bass, Shure’s SE215 Sound Isolating Earphones provide immersive sound in a secure, over-the-ear design for long-lasting comfort. The SE215s are available in wireless or wired versions with detachable cables in multiple color options.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Retail

$84.95

MI Combat Rifle Sight Set ◆ Includes Combat Rifle Front and Rear Sight, and A2 Front Sight Tool

MI Combat Rifle Rear Sight #MI-CRS-Set

Retail

$159.95

W292S4498 Hillside Rd, Waukesha, WI 53189 ◆ Tel: 262-896-6780, Fax: 262-896-6756 ◆ www.midwestindustriesinc.com

DEPT.

Every Day Carry 01

02 03

Petzl

LED Lenser

Tactikka Core

P2BM

MSRP: $70

MSRP: $23

petzl.com

ledlenserusa.com

Atomic Bear

Tactical Pen

Suavecito Mustache Switchblade Comb

MSRP: $20 theatomicbear.com

MSRP: $8

suavecito.com

ZT Knives 0462

Unsettle&Co.

MSRP: $300 zt.kaiusaltd.com

Gunmetal Chrome Unclip Keychain

MSRP: $23

UCO

unsettleco.com

Stormproof Matches MSRP: $8

WetWerks

ucogear.com

M&P9 Shield Slide Modifications MSRP: Varies

wetwerksusa.com

Ezra Aurthur No. 2 Wallet

MSRP: $65

Hyve Technologies

gallantry.com

+2 Mag Base Pad for Shield 9mm MSRP: $28

hyve-technologies.com

Moleskine Field Note Book â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tan

Aneew

MSRP: $6

16GB Pendrive USB Flash Drive

moleskine.com

MSRP: $9 aneew.com

UN12 / Issue 005

UN12mag.com

Premium EDC Items Aneew 16GB Pendrive USB Flash Drive Price Paid: $9 URL: aneew.com Our 2¢: This is a cartoonish USB drive in the shape of what looks like an AK-74U. What else is there to say? We were sold on it the moment we saw it. The drive’s body is made of a rubberized material and features more detail than we expected from such a small item. We do wish that its 16GB data storage capacity was much higher, however.

ZT Knives 0462

MSRP: $ 300 URL: zt.kaiusaltd.com Our 2¢: This damned sexy blade is a larger version of ZT’s 0460 model, both of which were designed by Dmitry Sinkevich. The 0462 features a 3.75-inch upswept blade made from CPM 20CV steel. Its deepred-colored carbon-fiber front scale is complemented by a stonewashed titanium back. A secure frame lock gives you peace of mind when working with the blade.

UCO Stormproof Matches

MSRP: $8 URL: ucogear.com Our 2¢: If you were thinking these matches look serious, you wouldn’t be wrong in the slightest. Made for extreme conditions, UCO’s Stormproof matches light up quickly and consistently in wet conditions or in heavy wind, and will relight even after being submerged in water. Matches will burn for up to 15 seconds each. We don’t go anywhere without them. Sold in a quantity of 50 matches.

VIPER PDW STABILIZER

The Strike Industries Viper PDW Stabilizer represents the pinnacle of ultra-compact PDW systems. At the compressed posiion, the compact Viper PDW allows for eﬀortless maneuverability parrcularly in close quarters and vehicular operaaons. With the press of a buuon, the rapid deployment system instantly springs to the extended sy posiion for greater shot stability.

Speciﬁcaaons Overall length while installed on an AR15 - 16” Barrel 28.5” Collapsed, 32” extended 5.5” collapsed w/out cheekrest, 8.5” Extended (from back of receiver) Weight: 1 lb, 3.0 oz

VIPER PDW STOCK Petzl Tactikka Core MSRP: $70 URL: petzl.com Our 2¢: Petzl is known for offering quality gear, and this headlamp is no exception. It comes with a rechargeable battery that can be replenished via the built-in USB port and it can also run on standard AAA batteries. It features 350 lumens of light with user-selectable beam patterns and modes. It’s also equipped with an emergency whistle for emergency situations. 26

UN12 / Issue 005

WetWerks M&P9 Shield Slide Modifications

Suavecito Switchblade Mustache Comb

MSRP: $16 URL: wetwerksusa.com Our 2¢: WetWerks has quickly made a name for itself in the pistol customization realm. They specialize in modifying your existing slide for performance and appearance upgrades. They also work with partner shops that offer coating and stippling services.

MSRP: $8 URL: suavecito.com Our 2¢: Like the AK74U USB drive highlighted here, this keychain switchblade comb is another lighthearted piece we needed to include in our EDC. The full-action novelty comb opens at the press of a button but may feel a little flimsy to the touch. Even so, it can surely get most mustaches in neat order.

WWW.STRIKEINDUSTRIES.COM

FEATURE

Customization

TommyBuilt T36 BUILDING A PISTOL VERSION OF AN HK G36C CLONE Text by MICHAEL PENHALL Images by JERRY TSAI

very firearm collector has some sort of unicorn or

TommyBuilt Tactical and GSG9.US’s latest collaboration. The

Holy Grail. It could be due to the rarity of the firearm

two companies created an all American-made G36 parts kit for

worldwide, or, in my case, the fact that the manufacturer does

the G36 C & K variants along with an all-new, all-U.S. receiver.

not import it into the United States. It is safe to say that no

With that, HK nerds everywhere (like myself) rejoiced.

company has more rabid collectors than Heckler & Koch (as

and TommyBuilt sells the receivers and also does complete

neutered versions of its world-famous UMP (USC) and G36

builds. Upon hearing this wondrous news, I had to get in line

(SL-8) into the United States. But for me, these edited versions

and get in on this. I elected to get the G36C pistol kit and build

of the originals never quite filled the hole in my collection like

that out. I quickly placed my order with Tommy for the receiver

the originals would.

and the kit from HKParts.

Like many people seeking to right the wrong of watered-down

UN12 / Issue 005

HKParts.net was tasked with selling the complete parts kits,

well as haters, for that matter). For years, HK has imported

With the parts kit running $1,750 and the receiver costing

HKs, I spent the time and money and sent my SL-8 and USC

$800, all-in I would be at about $2,550. Part of the cost with

to companies like TommyBuilt Tactical and Black Ops Defense

Tommy is sending in your barrel for proper installation. This

to literally cut my $2,000 rifle in half and weld a chunk of a

can save you hundreds in tools that you would only use once. I

de-milled machine gun to the back end. That may sound nuts,

chose the G36C because I already had a re-weld done by Black

but I wouldn’t have it any other way. The end result after being

Ops on an SL8 and had that built as a “K” gun. Having to source

cut, plasti-welded, and re-marked was the closest you could

the rear receiver section and a usable German G36K parts kit

come to the real thing in the civilian world. Then along came

for that build cost me nearly $4,500, so you can see just how

UN12mag.com

Customization: TommyBuilt T36 cost effective this new way is to go. Of course,

screw. Hopefully future kits will have these issues

with anything HK (as well as its clones), cost

addressed. The last piece to arrive was the receiver. It

effectiveness is a relative term.

After addressing the above issues, all the U.S. parts fit perfectly onto the receiver without issue. Once built, the firearm cycled great and filled an

appears to have been made by Choate Machine

empty spot in my collection. My G36C clone is

of this article it is still in stock at HKParts.net. It

and Tool for Tommy and GSG9. The receiver is

fitted with a TommyBuilt T36 Tailhook Pistol Brace

appeared to be well made and very similar to the

very well made and very robust. The traditional

Adapter that fits a Gear Head Works Tailhook

German kit I have. There were slight differences

method of re-welding the receiver is negated

MOD 1 perfectly.

in the bolt and charging handle, however.

with this new G36 receiver clone. The strength of

Unfortunately, once the receivers started shipping,

a re-welded receiver is definitely a concern, and

market, this is definitely the most affordable way to

problems arose with the parts kits. The recoil

since these receivers are molded in one piece, it

get into a G36-style firearm. The re-weld method

spring was too long and the cam pin needed to

eliminates that problem altogether.

for building a G36 clone may be the most visually

The parts kit came in first, and as of the writing

While not the most correct clone available on the

be replaced. I contacted Tommy about this and

As a collector, one thing that really jumps out

he immediately took care of it, replacing the pin

at me is the TommyBuilt manufacturer mark right

enough rear section are drying up and going up

and modifying the spring. For the cost of the parts

where the original HK mark would have been. I’d

significantly in price. Considering the cost savings

kit, I wish GSG9.US and Tommy would have just

hoped that since these companies were so close

as well as the fit, finish, and performance of the T36

replaced the recoil spring, as the solution was

to the clone market they would have left that

receiver, I’m extremely satisfied with the results.

to grind a couple of millimeters off the retaining

space blank and put their markings elsewhere.

[ UN12 ]

correct way to build one; G36 parts kits with a long

01 The T-36 receiver assembly is easy to put together. Only a small allen wrench is needed to attach the rail.

Specs Make: TommyBuilt Model: T36 Receiver URL: tommybuilttactical.com

Specs Make: GSG9.US Model: HK G36C Pistol Parts Kit Complete MSRP: $1,750 URL: hkparts.net

02 Different trigger packs and magwells are available and are easily interchangeable. The GSG9 kit came with a 4-position semi-auto trigger pack.

“Once built, the firearm cycled great and filled an empty spot in my collection.” 30

UN12 / Issue 005

PRODUCT REVIEW

: : Combines a Glock 19-length grip with a Glock 17-length slide : : 80% complete

Polymer80 Hybrid Compact Glock Frame

: : Requires basic milling skills Text by MICHAEL GREY Images by MICHAEL GREY & FRANK CHU

onventional wisdom tells us that to successfully conceal carry

undetected, it’s best to pack a smaller gun over a larger one. That sounds simple enough, but that statement isn’t really all that precise. Those who carry concealed know all too well the balancing act of size versus utility when choosing which CCW pistol to carry. A smaller gun may be easier to carry concealed over a larger one, there’s really no argument there. But just how small do you go before the pistol becomes

grip, the easier a pistol is to conceal. Too short a

models have been introduced. The general

too difficult to use with any real accuracy or

grip, however, can make it unwieldy to control.

consensus is that the G19’s grip’s proportions,

effectiveness? A tiny pistol’s short sight radius and grip can make it harder to aim and control. Small-caliber ammunition can help further shrink a gun and perhaps increase ammunition capacity, but at what cost to stopping power? Those who surreptitiously pack heat have been wrestling with these questions for ages. To examine the limitations of size, let’s ask ourselves what part of a pistol is the most

“A general rule of thumb is the shorter the grip, the easier a pistol is to conceal.”

while larger than that of other pistols, is small enough to conceal while allowing even those with larger hands a hearty grip. Its magazine also features a double-stacked ammunition format, which allows more golden nuggets of defense to be carried. There are users who have pointed out that the concealment of a longer slide isn’t much of an issue for most, and they lament that Glock hasn’t

disruptive to successful concealment. If you’re

Although many CCW-worthy compact

released a G19 fitted with the slide of the full-size

thinking the slide, since it’s usually the longest

and subcompact pistols exist, there’s an old

model Glock 17. (Interestingly enough, Glock has

part of a pistol, you’re barking up the wrong tree.

workhorse that never seems to go out of style, no

released the Glock 19X, which is just the opposite

It’s actually the grip. The slide can usually be

matter how “classic” its design may be. The 9mm-

layout.) The reasons for a longer slide include a

concealed more easily than the grip. Grips tend to

chambered Glock 19 is a compact pistol that’s still

longer sight radius for increased accuracy as well

stick out and awkwardly present themselves as

sought by many for carry use. Its relatively small

as a longer barrel for better ballistic performance.

obvious bulges around one’s waistline, jacket, or

size has made it a favorite of CCW permit holders

Some fans of this style of pistol have gone so far

ankles. A general rule of thumb is the shorter the

for decades, even though newer, even smaller

as to make their own “long-side G19” by taking

Polymer80

Hybrid

UN12 / Issue 005

UN12mag.com

Product Review: Polymer80 Hybrid

FEATURES UN0012 / POLYMER80’S HYBRID COMPACT FRAME —

The PF940CL 80% Hybrid Compact Frame Kit comes with a Stainless Steel Locking Block Rail System, Stainless Steel Rear Rail Module, hardened pins, complete finishing jig, drill bits, and end mill.

G19 frame with the increased accuracy and

mill. Just add the rest of the frame’s parts, which

dimensions of a G19.

effectiveness of a G17-length slide and barrel.

are sold separately (such as a trigger)along with

Once you complete your frame and install

a complete slide and you can build yourself the

80% complete firearm frames and receivers,

its parts, it allows for G19-length magazines

preferred CCW-friendly hybrid pistol, too.

has addressed this deficiency in Glock’s

and longer to be used and can host G17

[ UN12 ]

lineup with their latest offering, the PF940CL

Gen3 compatible slides without any need for

80% Hybrid Compact Frame Kit. For those

modification. G17 Gen4 slides can be used as

who might not know, an 80% frame is

well with a simple modification to the dust cover.

Polymer80, a company specializing in

an unfinished pistol frame that one can

The frame is constructed of high-strength

complete at home to create one’s own

reinforced polymer and comes covered in an

home-built pistol with the use of nothing

aggressive and adaptable grip texture. It can

more than a drill press or mill and some hand

be further customized with stippling and other

tools. They’re called 80% frames because

forms of polymer shaping. It’s a blank canvas

80% of the frame is already completed.

for your creative mind. A Picatinny accessory

Finishing the final 20% is up to you. If you

rail allows you to hang a light or laser under

are good at following instructions and are

the barrel and a metal serialization plate

competent using basic tools, completing the

comes embedded in the frame for you to add

frame shouldn’t be a problem. (We actually

your own identification tag.

walk you through the process, step by step, in UN12 Issue 002’s DIY feature.) The PF940CL is a hybrid frame that combines the carry-friendly dimensions of a

The kit runs for $160 and comes with a Stainless Steel Locking Block Rail System, Stainless Steel Rear Rail Module, hardened pins, complete finishing jig, drill bits, and end

: : For more on Polymer80: PF940CL 80% Hybrid Compact Frame Kit MSRP: $160 polymer80.com

UN12

a G17 and chopping its grip down to the

AEROPRECISIONUSA.COM

UN12 / Issue 005

DEPT.

Do It Yourself

Text by MARTIN ANDERS Images by MICHAEL GREY

Applying Carbide As mentioned, silicon carbide coatings have

and sanding tools. There are many benefits to

been popular with competition shooters as well

silicon carbide applications, including a varied

tedious process. Although there are plenty of

as with high-end gunsmiths for years. Silicon

selection of grits to help you select just the

grip-enhancing options such as polymer

carbide-coated surfaces such as handguards,

amount of grip you’ve been looking for. Follow

stippling, metal checkering, and stick-on grip

grips, and pistol frames create just the right

along here to see how silicon carbide is applied

tape, the amount of traction you end up with

amount of grip in the right areas—and it looks

to a firearm’s surface.

can vary from cheese-grater-like to almost

pretty cool to boot.

nsuring the perfect amount of traction on your firearm’s control surfaces can be a

non-existent.

First off, your workspace should be set up in a well-ventilated area. This coating process is a

grip tape, minus the thickness of the tape. The

messy undertaking, so we do not recommend

we’ll show you a simple method of traction

durable coating goes on much thinner than

doing it on any surface that you don’t want to risk

enhancement that competition shooters and

grip tape, and it’s seamless, too. We also found

permanently staining or damaging. We suggest

gunsmiths have trusted for years. We’re not

that it’s a good method for helping to hide

setting up your workspace over a disposable,

certain if there’s an official name for the process,

imperfections such as ill-advised Dremel work or

protective covering. We’re working with a sand-

so we’ll just call it carbide coating. In our case,

a botched stipple job.

like material, and as you probably already know,

If you’re willing to get a little arts-and-craftsy,

What’s Needed

• Silicon carbide powder

• Face mask

• Two-part 15-minute epoxy

• Safety glasses

• Mixing stick

• Masking tape

• Disposable brush

• Item to be coated

• Latex gloves

sand tends to get everywhere. Be generous with

Disclaimer: Always take safety precautions when working with tools or other

Silicon carbide can be applied via epoxy to

grip tape and some types of sandpaper their

the mount of protective covering you use. Once

dangerous goods. This DIY should be done at your own risk. Verify your results

any non-porous surface you want to increase

gritty surface. It is also used in many commercial

you have donned your protective gear—gloves,

with a certified gunsmith prior to using the final product.

traction on.

and industrial applications such as on cutting

mask, safety glasses—move on to Step 01.

we’re using a material called silicon carbide.

The effect you get is very similar to skateboard

UN12 / Issue 005

Silicon carbide is the coarse material that gives

UN12mag.com

DIY: Applying Carbide

Start

01 Preparation Figure out where you want traction to be added to your item. Here, we’re adding carbide to the bottom portion of a VLTOR VISKM handguard. Make sure that the item is clean and free of oil, dirt, and other debris. If you are coating polymer, a good cleaning and degreasing is enough. If you’re coating metal, it’s a good idea to scuff up the surface with a bit of sandpaper or steel wool. After you do so, make sure you thoroughly clean the area before proceeding. Take your time and carefully mask off all areas that you do not want coated. You can get creative here and mask the surface off so that the final product will reveal a nice design.

03 Application We used a disposable foam brush to apply the epoxy. Apply it in a thin, even coat on every portion of the application area. Keep in mind that you’re working against the drying time of the epoxy, so work as briskly as possible without getting careless. Carefully inspect your item from all angles to ensure you didn’t miss an area. The epoxy coating should look smooth and glossy, but not runny or have any drips. Note that when coating items such as this handguard, mounting points may be affected by the added thickness of the epoxy and carbide.

UN12 / Issue 005

02 Epoxy Here we’re using a two-part epoxy as the adhesive base for the silicon carbide powder. We chose a 15-minute epoxy, but you can use a faster- or slower-drying epoxy depending on how quickly you work. Be sure you follow the epoxy’s instructions for proper mixing. Preparing a little more than you think you will need is a good idea because you don’t want to run out of epoxy during the next step. Please note that applying epoxy is permanent. Be sure you want to coat your item permanently before proceeding, because there’s no hitting undo.

04 Sprinkle After triple-checking that you have applied enough epoxy on the item and that the coated surface is smooth without any runs, sprinkle the silicon carbide powder over the epoxy coating. (If you do see any runs or drips forming, remove them with the brush before sprinkling.) Be sure to keep turning the item as you slowly sprinkle the powder, making sure you don’t miss any portion. Work as quickly as you can so the silicon carbide is applied to the epoxy before the epoxy begins to set.

DIY: Applying Carbide

05 Setting After the entire surface looks evenly coated with silicon carbide powder, carefully set the part aside while making sure that the coated surfaces are not touching anything else. According to our epoxy’s instructions, the item can be handled in about 45 minutes and should be fully set in 3 hours. We decided to be cautious and leave it to cure completely before handling it.

06 Cleanup After the epoxy is fully cured, use a soft brush to lightly remove any loose powder from the item. Also remove any masking tape that you may have used. Now you can inspect the item and revel in the professional job you did. Be sure to use caution when cleaning up your workspace, as the silicon carbide power tends to get everywhere. If needed, a vacuum can be used to clean up excess powder.

Finish BOTTOM LINE As far as longevity is concerned, we have several items that have been coated for well over a year now and they still look and feel like they were coated just yesterday. Over time you may lose a little silicon carbide, but overall the coatings will last a long time even with

Silicon Carbide Grit

consistent use. If it does eventually wear completely off, you can easily reapply a new coat. This process only took us about 45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a

Silicon carbide is available in an array of grits. The smaller

simple weekend project that can add much-needed traction to any

the number, the coarser the grit;

surface that you want. You’re not limited to just guns—really,

the larger the number, the finer

you can coat just about any surface. Got a slippery

the grit. As you can see, 36 grit

magazine or flashlight? Go ahead and give

(below left) is very rough and

them the silicon carbide treatment.

probably as coarse as we’d want to go. The opposite side (below right) is a mixture of 120/220 grits, which is much like very fine sand. In this step-by-step guide we used 80 grit (below middle). If you’re uncertain about what grit to use, we suggest buying several different grits to try out.

36 grit - 80 grit - 120/220 grit

UN12 / Issue 005

FEATURE : : Built on Quentin Defense ARQ-9 billet receivers : : Chambered in 9mm

ustom R9 istol

: : 5.5-inch barrel

Text by MARTIN ANDERS Images by JAY CANTER

“Some people just have a knack for creating works of art out of an assemblage of parts.”

UN12 / Issue 005

UN12mag.com

FEATURE

f you haven’t noticed by now, we are living in a Golden Age of firearm customization. There

are more gun enthusiasts customizing their firearms to greater extents than at any other time in the past. This wasn’t always the case. Only about a decade ago, spraying your rifle any

“One of the main challenges with almost every handguard manufacturer

color other than an earthtone could have brought

is they do not extrude their own pieces,”

you ridicule. “Battleworn” weathering was also a

he says. “They’re doing their designs on

look that was mocked by many. Thankfully, tastes

a piece that was already started. I totally

have changed and people are now freer than ever

understand why they do this, but when you

to express their creativity through their customized

are a builder/manufacturer and want to put a

guns.

suppressor inside a handguard, this makes it

When you scroll through the social media image

nearly impossible. Very few companies make the

feed on your smartphone, you’ll undoubtedly see a

inner diameter large enough for a suppressor, and

host of customized guns. Some might be executed

unfortunately most of the time those handguards are

better than others, but all have a certain personality

not the most aesthetically pleasing.”

to them. After seeing so many custom guns, it takes

He continues: “So with this build, choosing to not go

one with a little more style to get us to stop and

suppressed and being able to find a muzzle device that

notice it.

fits perfectly inside the chosen handguard was a bit of

Of course, some custom-built firearms do seem to

a challenge. The other main challenge

jump out at you more than others. There are plenty of

was finding a talented

reasons for this, but one thing we’ve noticed is that

Cerakoter who

some people just have a knack for creating works of

could do pretty

art out of an assemblage of parts. Perhaps they’re

much anything

blessed with an artistic eye or a creative mind, or

I thought up,

both. Whatever the case, we applaud these creators.

along with any

One such person is Jay Canter, the mind behind the AR9 pistol pictured here. The Mesa, Arizona,

color. Coming up with new

based professional photojournalist clearly has an eye for aesthetics. He’s created plenty of custom builds, all of which are as much eye candy as usable tools. The AR9 is one of his latest builds and is meant to act as both a home defense weapon and an all-purpose truck gun. We caught up with him and asked him about the build and what challenges he may have encountered when putting this fantastic-looking pistol together. Regarding the build’s challenges, Canter says: “With pretty much all the custom designs I come up with, there are challenges. That’s part of what makes it fun to try out new parts and see what works and what doesn’t. The real challenge, typically, for me stems from the question: What is the purpose of the build besides making something cool?” Canter goes on to talk about a specific problem he faces when creating a new AR.

UN12 / Issue 005

“The real challenge comes down to the question: What is the purpose of the build besides just making something cool?”

01 Bushnell’s Elite Tactical CQTS 2.0 features four user-selectable reticles.

UN12mag.com

FEATURE

color palettes and patterns is tougher to do than it is to

setup is a 9MM Blowback AR-15 Enhanced BCG made

actually execute.”

by Battle Arms Development. The BCG is compatible

While the design concept, parts selection, and

with both Glock- and Colt-style magazines and features

assembly was completed by Canter himself, he relied

a reliable AR-15 style extractor claw with an O-ring and

on a frequent collaborator of his, Wes of FS Defense in

spring for reliable functioning.

Chino, California, to get the pistol coated in a custom camouflage scheme. It’s certainly a sharp-looking piece. The AR9 is based on a Quentin Defense ARQ-9

For the charging handle, Canter looked to Radian Weapons’ Raptor to do the job. The ambidextrous Raptor is a favorite of many AR users. And you

billet receiver set. The upper and lower receivers are

undoubtedly have noticed the sharp-looking hand stop

manufactured from aerospace-grade, 7075-T6 billet

that’s mounted on the handguard’s underside. The

aluminum and feature plenty of innovative features such

Tyrant Designs CNC HALO has the dual capability to

as takedown and pivot pins that can be inserted from

directly mount to either M-LOK or KeyMod slots.

the right or left sides and an extended magazine catch

with a Bushnell Elite Tactical CQTS 2.0. The CQTS 2.0

possible to build for calibers other than 9mm, such as

is Bushnell’s flagship red dot and features four user-

.40 S&W, from this receiver set, with the proper upper

selectable reticles. Reticle selection includes a 3 MOA

receiver components.

dot, a circle dot, crosshair dot, and circle crosshair dot.

The upper receiver is fitted with a 5.5-inch Rosco Manufacturing Bloodline barrel that’s made of 4150

Battery life for this optic is rated at 50,000 hours. We discovered plenty of top-quality

CMV steel and features a medium profile and 1:10 twist.

parts on the AR9’s lower

It is housed in a Lead Star Arms 7-inch LSA M-LOK

half, such as Strike

handguard, a free-float piece that weighs a scant 4.2

Industries’ highly

ounces.

anticipated

A 1.4-inch-diameter Kaw Valley Precision XL Pistol

Radian Weapons’ Raptor is an ambidextrous charging handle that’s a favorite of AR enthusiasts.

The ARQ lower accepts Glock-style magazines and can be adapted to other calibers such as .40 S&W.

02 The ELF AR-9 trigger was developed specifically for 9mm and .45 PCC and its pull can be adjusted from 4 to 2 and 3/4 pounds.

For quick and accurate targeting, the AR9 is topped

lever. The lower accepts Glock-style magazines. It’s also

PDW

Caliber Linear Comp sits on the barrel’s tip. Its long,

stabilizer. The

4.25-inch length allows for excellent blast control and

pistol stabilizer

also allows for the use of longer handguards in short-

allows the user

barreled pistol-caliber rifle and pistol builds. Driving this

to collapse or retract

03 “Coming up with new color palettes and patterns is tougher to do than it is to actually execute them.”

UN12 / Issue 005

UN12mag.com

FEATURE

the stabilizer, similar to PDW’s buttstock. A drop-in

readers who want to create their own custom builds.

trigger and anti-walk pins from Elftmann Tactical help

“There is really no magic sauce with this AR9,” he

complete the lower assembly. The ELF AR-9 trigger

says. “I just picked some really amazing parts from

was developed specifically for 9mm and .45 PCC

some amazing companies to come up with something

platforms. Interestingly, its pull weight can be adjusted

original and unique. If you just need something ‘off the

from 4 pounds to 2 and 3/4 pounds without removing

shelf’ for your needs, then that’s what you should do to

the trigger from the lower. Owners of SIG’s MPX might

exercise your 2A rights.”

like to know that the ELF AR-9 trigger is also compatible

“Customizing guns is just like customizing vehicles or even homes,” he adds. “It is a great extension of

with that gun.

your own personality, which makes it more enjoyable

We asked Canter which of the components he thought stood out the most on this AR9. “The Quentin

of a lifestyle/hobby—albeit not always practical or

Defense receiver set is one of the most beautiful pieces

financially sound.” We couldn’t agree more.

available on the market, and it’s manufactured here in Arizona,” he answered. “The trigger as well, it has

[ UN12 ]

a perfect break every time and has a great finger feel. It is also made here in Arizona.” Canter adds: “Finally, the Strike Industries PDW stabilizer brace. So much R&D and time went into getting these to market, being allowed to obtain one of the first available made it

honor. Once it showed up, it made the long wait totally worth it.” We also asked if he has any tips for

“Customizing guns is like customizing vehicles or even homes—it’s a great extension of your personality.”

01 The 1.4-inch-diameter Kaw Valley Precision XL Pistol Caliber Linear Comp allows for the use of longer handguards in short-barrel pistolcaliber rifle and pistol builds.

02 Reticle selection on the Bushnell CQTS 2.0 includes a 3 MOA dot, a circle dot, crosshair dot, and circle crosshair dot, and battery life is rated at 50,000 hours.

UN12 / Issue 005

UN12mag.com

UN12

E X P L O D E D VIEW

Jay Canter’s AR9 Pistol Specifications: Caliber: 9mm Length: 22.5 - 25.5 in. Barrel: Rosco Manufacturing Bloodline, 5.5” Weight w/o magazine: 5 lbs, 13.6 oz. Upper & Lower Receivers: Quentin Defense ARQ-9 Billet Receiver Set Coating: Cerakote by FS Defense Cerakote

Featured Accessories: Optic: Bushnell Elite Tactical CQTS 2.0 Handguard: Lead Star Arms 7” LSA M-Lok Brace: Strike Industries PDW Stabilizer Magazine: ETS Clear Glock 18 – 31 Round

“There is really no magic sauce with this AR9. I just picked some really amazing parts from some amazing companies.”

Parts & Accessories: Kaw Valley Precision XL Pistol Caliber Linear Comp, Battle Arms Development Enhanced 9mm BCG, Radian Weapons Raptor charging handle, Tyrant Designs CNC Halo hand stop, Strike Industries Buffer/ Buffer Spring, Strike Industries Buffer Tube, Elftmann Tactical ELF AR-9 Drop-In Trigger, Elftmann Tactical AR-15 Non-Rotational Anti-Walk pins, Strike Industries Takedown Pins, Battle Arms Development BAD-ASS-SSL Ambi Safety Selector Stainless Steel, Seekins Precision Enhanced Bolt Catch, Tyrant Designs CNC Titan pistol grip

—Jay Canter

About the Owner: Name: Jay Canter Social: IG & FB—Jay Canter Photography Occupation: Professional photojournalist, creative mind Special Thanks: My amazing wife and graphic artist, Rebecca “The Design Sergeant” (IG @ TheDesignSergeant), not only for being an amazing woman, but for her support no matter what crazy ideas I come up with and for the service she devoted to the country for over a decade. Also all the amazing companies I have built relationships with in the industry, who share the visions I have for builds and want to be part of them—on this AR9 pistol and beyond.

UN12 / Issue 005

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

UN12mag.com

ADVENTURE

: : Death Valley National Park encompasses 5,262 square miles

The Valley of Death

: : Average temperature ranges from 39° to 116°F : : Known as the driest place in North America

Text & Images by JIM BARNETT

etting away from the daily grind seems to get more difficult as time

passes. Whether you’re bogged down with work or are strapped with other life obligations, it can be challenging to find time to get away from it all for a little well-deserved R&R—and adventure. Sometimes you just need to make the time. For four-wheeling explorer Jim Barnett, he was able to find time to adventure though California’s Death Valley thanks to a group of likeminded friends. The following is his account of travelling through one of the least hospitable National Parks in America—in his own words: Jandy sent out a message to our group chat—Death Valley Veterans Day Weekend—and that was it. It was a short, one-line message, but we all knew we had to be there. Andy, a.k.a. Jandy, is a good friend of mine and a master trip planner who tries to get our group of friends out as often as he can. But with so many conflicting schedules and lives, it’s been harder and harder to get us all together. We got the word from him on what time to meet and a GPS waypoint for where to meet, which ended up being in the Trona Pinnacles. I’d actually never been

UN12 / Issue 005

UN12mag.com

camp, and none of us felt like pavement to Trona proper… I’ve been all around the

pounding for hours into the night only to

surrounding desert but never to the actual

arrive at camp late. So after letting the JB

Pinnacles—and they were definitely pretty

Weld set and getting Jay’s truck sealed

cool to finally see in person.

up, which we were able to do well enough

We left work early on Friday and hit the

to get him back on the road so he could

road towards Trona, which saw us arriving

at least go for repairs, we all kind of went

at the predetermined rendezvous point

our own direction. Some continued north,

just as the sun was setting. We had just

some headed home, but Andy, Anna,

enough time to lay down camp and cook

Matt, Olivia, and I weren’t quite done. We

up some dinner before night set in. We all

drove south to an area I’d been through

gathered around the campfire for a late

before, to a mine I knew was a great camp

night of catching up with our friends as

spot. The roads here were smooth and

even more adventurers trickled in.

wide—albeit unpaved—so we were able to set a pretty good pace, leaving us some

The next morning we had a bit of a late

time to explore the area.

start due to some late sleepers. This can

That night was one of those nights that

be tough with large groups and varying arrival times. Since people are tired from

makes you realize it doesn’t matter whether

being on the road, we don’t like to have

or not everything goes to plan. It was one

a set schedule. After all, it’s camping—

of the best nights camping I’d had in a long

we’re supposed to be relaxing—but

time. We had time to settle in and get a good

sometimes in order to make it to camp

fire going… then the five of us really just got

before dark you gotta boogie.

to relax and enjoy the desert evening. The most important thing on the trail is to just

At last we packed up and hit the trail towards Mengal Pass, where we’d be

slow down and enjoy the scenery. And that’s

entering the park. We didn’t make it

exactly what we did. We sat around that fire

maybe more than five miles before one

for hours, telling stories and watching the

of our crew, Alex, came over the radio to

shooting stars fall above our heads. With no plan except to go home on Day 4

tell us his hood latch mounts had sheared off. We definitely needed to fix that, so

we got up early, made coffee, and explored

out came the giant zip-ties at our first fuel

a bit to see if there was anything else to see

stop—and we were off again. Turns out

where we were. We spent a while trying

this was to be the first of a few impromptu

to find a route to a landmark we spied off

trail fixes that we’d be facing...

in the distance, but after a few dead ends

I didn’t get a chance to take many pictures this first day, because we were running a little late and I didn’t wanna stop

Off the trail, there’s plenty of room to spread out and relax.

Striped Butte at the entrance to Death Valley proper.

Sometimes the unplanned camping spots are the best.

Watching the sun set over the valley— from high above.

Off-road camping is self-sufficiency at its finest.

Heading out on the final day—but not quite finished yet.

Exploring Death Valley’s abandoned mines.

and blocked trails we gave up and headed

Relics of the past sit undisturbed in the desert.

toward Baker, Nevada, where we’d exit. But we weren’t ready to head home just yet, so we fueled up and decided to jump over to

to hold the group up. I really only took

Mojave, where Matt would take the lead as

photos when the group stopped to check something out. Thankfully, there was plenty

Mojave is like his second home.

nightfall, so we skipped seeing a few old

group break up—but it turns out it wasn’t

to see. We did stop at Barker Ranch, which

mines Andy had planned for us to check

to be the last time we saw them.

makes for a good story to tell the folks

out. As the day burned down, we had

back home. This is where Charles Manson

to make an on-the-fly decision about

heard over the radio that Kira had lost a

grinding noise, and discovered a huge

was found hiding out after the Sharon

camp because there was no way we were

tire and they potentially needed some

gouge on the inside edge of my rim. I also

Tate murders. They found him hiding

going to make it to where we’d originally

extra help. So we went, and after fixing

noted that the bottom caliper bolt had

under the bathroom sink. You can still see

planned to stay. Andy and I put our heads

a few things and getting her spare on we

backed out, doubtless from the countless

where it went down, but the actual house

together, rifling through our maps and

were all off again. But little did we know

miles of washboard that resulted in the

unfortunately burned to the ground a few

trail guides and hoping to find a place one

we’d actually be seeing them again…

caliper eventually hitting the wheel. This

years ago. All that remains is the foundation

of us had been to before. We ended up

and a few rock walls.

Unfortunately, now it was my truck’s turn to break. We stopped to inspect a weird

As we headed back down the road we

As we were leaving, we heard them

could have been a real issue because the

landing on a waypoint we’d both saved at

come over the radio once again saying

closest parts store was hours away. It was

After exploring the old ranch for a while,

some point in the past but never actually

this time they really needed help. Jay had

approaching dark and there was no way we

we set back out to finish Mengal and head

been to. So off we went to see if it was a

lost his radiator somehow—it was leaking,

viable spot. Turned out it was perfect and

with a big hole in it as though the fan had

on down in the Panamint Valley—the last

we had a great place to camp that fit all

made contact. This was a big problem

it wasn’t quite the right length, but I was able

big valley before you enter Death Valley

the trucks—barely—but we made it all

given where we were located, and a

to get a few threads in and really tighten it

proper—and we did run into a few other

work by stacking rocks so everyone had a

radiator isn’t exactly an item we carry

down, which would allow me to continue on.

rather large groups. This was to be expected,

somewhat flat spot to park.

as a spare. We jammed back over there

toward camp. There was a big event going

but we made good time otherwise. Our

With it getting dark so early we had

could miss work the next day. Luckily, I had a spare in my box of bolts that actually fit…

Disaster averted, we all decided it was

and, sure enough, there was a hole in the

time to pack it in. So we turned back to the

next stop was near Striped Butte, which is

nearly seven hours of campfire time,

radiator. We pooled all our JB Weld and

highway, said our goodbyes, and headed

always a site to see as you drop into the park.

which was much needed. The next

Radiator Stop Leak and got to work trying

toward home.

We needed some lunch and a chance to

morning there was a decision to be

to patch it up as best we could.

[ UN12 ]

stretch out a bit before heading off to find our

made—some of the group wanted to

camping spot for the night.

head one direction, others wanted to go in

once again we no longer had enough

another. So we split up. I hate to have the

daylight left to make it to our intended

We still had a ways to go before

UN12 / Issue 005

This ended up being a deciding factor— Follow Jim on Instagram @_jim_bob.

UN12mag.com

FEATURE

: : Side-charging AR-15 system : : Uses AKM magazines : : Chambered in 7.62x39mm

Text by MARTIN ANDERS Images by JERRY TSAI

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

UN12 / Issue 005

BRS47 SC UN12mag.com

FEATURE

oke or Pepsi, the Beatles or the Stones, Ginger or

patterns into one. Knight’s Armament Co.’s SR-47 is an

Mary Ann... there are plenty of debates that can

early example of combining aspects of an AR-15-style rifle

both 100% ready-to-assemble and 80% finish-it-yourself

rage on until the end of time. Some people are decidedly

with an AK’s. More recently, both CMMG’s Mk47 Mutant

varieties and as a matched lower and upper receiver set.

in favor of one choice over the other and there’s little room

and Rock River Arms’ LAR-47 have taken the idea to

The BRS47-SC is also offered as a complete turnkey

for compromise. Another such debate that can get heated

fruition by working out the concept’s kinks.

rifle. You can even order it as a complete ground-up

is that of the AR-15 versus AK-47. Both weapons were

Not to be outdone, bespoke rifle maker Billet Rifle

The BRS47 is available as a stand-alone lower receiver in

custom build assembled to your exact specifications. The

created by opposing sides with opposing ideologies using

Systems (BRS) has entered the AR-AK hybrid market with

example you see on these pages is one such build and is

different technologies. The two have been pitted against

its model BRS47. The Carson City, Nevada, firm has been

a complete one-off creation that was done for Billet Rifle

each other in war and peace for over half a century and the

making affordable, quality billet AR-15 lower receivers

Systems president Chris Garrison.

debate still shows no signs of wavering.

since 2012. They specialize in billet receivers that are

Built to serve as a general-purpose truck gun,

carefully machined from solid blocks of aluminum and

it’s also on hand in case Garrison ever

modularity, accuracy, and ergonomics as some of its

pride themselves on the exacting tolerances of their CNC

encounters any coyotes when he takes his

strong points. Those who prefer the AK love its reliability,

components.

long, romantic walks on the beach. The

Those who choose the side of the AR-15 point out

low maintenance requirements, and hard-hitting power.

First debuted in 2016, the BRS47 caught the attention

rifle is built upon a match set of BRS47

For the record, we are fans of both systems and believe

of many AR-AK hybrid fans, especially those wishing that

receivers. The lower is machined from a

that everyone should enjoy both. (Or even better, multiples

they could obtain the impossible-to-buy KAC SR-47. Since

solid block of 7075 aluminum and features

of both!)

then, a new side-charging variant has been introduced,

an integrated trigger guard and flared

called the BRS47-SC.

magwell that takes Magpul’s AK/AKM

The idea of not choosing between but combining the strengths of the two systems has been taken up by manufacturers that have attempted to merge the two rifle

“The BRS47SC is available as a complete turnkey rifle or as a ground-up custom build.”

01 02

01 Nevada Cerakote coated the entire rifle in a pattern called MPC Camo.

02 An Atibal X 1-10x30 FFP with a piggybacked thermal imaging unit form the BRS47-SC’s optics suite.

UN12 / Issue 005

UN12mag.com

FEATURE

The billet lower’s flared magwell accepts Magpul’s AK/AKM PMAG magazines.

01 02

02 The Atibal scope is secured in an American Defense mount.

PMAG magazines. It’s worth noting, due to the shape of AK magazines, that BRS47 lower receivers do not work with standard AR-15 upper receivers. Instead, a proprietary BRS upper receiver is required for the build. This upper is manufactured to accept the larger AK magazine dimensions. The use of a specific BRS47 Bolt Carrier Group (BCG) is also required, as regular AR-15 carriers with a 7.62x39 bolt installed will not work. The BRS47 BCG is specially designed to work with AK47 magazines. Other than that, both the upper and lower receivers are compatible with other AR-15 parts. The side-folding model of the BRS47 required a few modifications to be made to the standard BRS47 for the stock to be able to fold. The first mod was to swap out the standard buffer and tube with a Dead Foot Arms (DFA) folding stock adapter. The DFA adapter is actually much more than just a mount for the stock. DFA calls it a “Modified Cycle System” in that, unlike other folding stock adapters, the DFA is a complete system that allows the gun to be safely and repeatedly fired while the stock is folded. While DFA offers the Modified Cycle System as an offthe-shelf replacement for any direct-impingement AR-15, the BRS47-SC’s system required some extra work to get it dialed in. Aside from taking AK mags and 7.62x39mm cartridges, the BRS47-SC is also similar to an AK in that it runs a gas piston system. Garrison opted for a mid-length

to DFA for their Bolt Carrier Modification service to shorten

Enhanced (SD-E) trigger. The two-

Superlative Arms (SA) Adjustable Piston System to replace

its length so it would work with the folding stock adapter.

stage trigger has a secondary pull

the standard direct-impingement system. It features a

This service allows those who wish to use DFA’s adapter

weight of only 1.2 pounds.

patented “bleed off” gas piston system that adjusts the

to send in their own carrier for modification, so purchase

Mirroring the operation of an AK, the BRS47-

rifle’s gas flow by bleeding gas out of the gas block instead

of a new carrier isn’t needed. He finished the bolt carrier

SC is charged via a knob located on the left side

of restricting the flow like conventional adjustable blocks.

group with BRS’s dedicated BRS47 bolt. With the major

of the upper receiver. The BRS47-SC’s side-charging

This results in reduced gas pressure and provides only

mechanical challenges worked out, Garrison outfitted the

upper receiver is a first for BRS, which up until now has

the required pressure to drive the bolt carrier. Remaining

BRS47-SC with a selection of parts from his own company

only offered traditional rear-charging-style receivers. A

gas and pressure are bled out of the block, allowing the

and a few fellow innovators.

BRS47 16-inch barrel is housed underneath a Geissele

system to run much cleaner and cooler. There is a reported reduction of felt recoil with the SA system as well. In order for SA’s bolt carrier to work in the BRS47-SC,

The lower receiver’s control accessories include a

Autotmatics Super Modular Rail MK14 M-Lok in a 14-inch

Magpul MOE SL Carbine stock and BCMGUNFIGHTER

length. A two-chamber BRS 2C muzzle brake helps reduce

vertical and pistol grips. You’ll also find a Battle Arms

muzzle rise. Being that this truck gun’s mandate is to be a general-

Garrison needed to modify it so that it could feed from an

Development BAD-ASS safety selector and a Rainier Arms/

AK magazine. First, he CNC-machined the area of the bolt

Forward Control Designs collaboration LP Forward Assist

purpose tool that leans toward a healthy dose of predator

carrier over its magazine grooves to a larger dimension to

button that’s manufactured in titanium. Nestled in the heart

clearing, Garrison outfitted it accordingly. He mounted

accommodate an AK magazine. He also sent the SA carrier

of the lower is a Geissele Autotmatics Super Dynamic

a SureFire M322V Compact LED Scout Light capable of

UN12 / Issue 005

UN12mag.com

FEATURE

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

favorite hard-use features. We also asked if he encountered any challenges putting this rifle together. “Yes, plenty of individual challenges had to be overcome both white and

along the way,” he replied. “After all, a rifle like this has

IR light output. It is

never been constructed—an AR-15-based 7.62x39 rifle

controlled by way of a

that accepts AK mags, piston-driven, with a side-folding

SureFire SR07 remote switch

stock that fires when folded.” Now that’s a mouthful. We’d love to get some trigger time behind the BRS47-

and is mounted in place with a Haley Strategic Thorntail2 light mount. For targeting, he went with the combination of a 10x variable powered scope, an Atibal X 1-10x30 FFP in a American Defense mount, with a piggybacked

SC to see how it lives up to its AR-AK hybrid potential,

The front sight uses an 8-36 UNF thread, which means a

and perhaps we will in the future. Until then, Garrison has

large variety of aftermarket front sights may be used.

the pleasure of owning the first and only (at the time of

To give the BRS47-SC a unique yet subdued look,

this article’s writing) BRS47-SC. It won’t be the only one

thermal imaging optic. By the looks of this rifle’s optic

Nevada Cerakote coated the entire rifle in a pattern

in existence for long, however—sooner rather than later.

suite, it seems as if Garrison believes you can never

called MPC Camo. Russ at Nevada Cerakote helped

“We can build you one just like it,” Garrison says. “Give

be too prepared! Atibal’s all-new Ignite 35mm clip-on

Garrison decide on a tan color pallet to match Garrison’s

us a call and we’ll talk.” We think we might just take him

thermal is compact, lightweight, and durable. Thermal

desert home environment. It’s a clean, simple look, and

up on the offer.

imagery allows Garrison to positively identify a target

we love it.

[ UN12 ]

via heat signature in virtually any lighting condition,

There’s plenty to like about Garrison’s BRS47-SC.

which is a great advantage when hunting prey such

It’s a sharp-looking, one-of-a-kind AR-AK hybrid that

as coyote.

features many unique, well-thought-out mods. We asked

To back up his optics, he also installed low-profile

Garrison which aftermarket parts or modifications stood

front and rear back-up iron sights from Rainier Arms.

out most during the course of the build and consequent

These German-made sights were designed so the

use of the rifle. He quickly pointed out that the Geisselle

small and large ghost rings sit on the same plane. This

trigger, Rainier Arms flip-up sights, and the combination

means that it’s not necessary to change the point of

of the Haley Strategic mount with SureFire light were his

aim when the distance of the target remains unaltered.

UN12 / Issue 005

UN12

E X P L O D E D VIEW

Billet Rifle Systems BRS47-SC Caliber: 7.62x39mm Length: 16 in. Barrel: BRS 16” 7.62X39, Mid-Length Weight w/o magazine: 9 lb, 9.3 oz. (with scope and thermal) Upper & Lower Receivers: BRS47 Matched Set (Side Charging) Coating: Cerakote by Nevada Cerakote

Featured Accessories: Optic: Atibal Atibal X 1-10x30 FFP, ED Glass, Mil Reticle Optic Mount: American Defense Mfg. AD-RECON-PB Scope Mount Thermal: Atibal Ignite 35mm, Thermal Imaging Optic Handguard: Geissele Automatics Super Modular Rail MK14 M-Lok (13”, DDC) Folding Adapter: Dead Foot Arms Modified Cycle System Stock: Magpul MOE SL Carbine Stock (Mil-Spec) Magazine: Magpul PMAG 30 AK/ AKM MOE

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

Parts & Accessories: Rainier Arms BUIS, SureFire M322V Compact White/IR LED Scout Light, SureFire SR07 remote switch, Haley Strategic Thorntail2 M-Lok SBR Light Mount, Superlative Arms .750” Adjustable Piston System (Mid Length, Solid, Melonite, Low Pro), Deadfoot Arms Bolt Carrier Modification service, BRS BRS47 Bolt, BRS 2C Muzzle Brake (.30 Cal, 2 Chamber), BCMGUNFIGHTER Vertical Grip-Mod 3, BCM BCMGUNFIGHTER Grip-Mod 2, Rainier Arms LP Forward Assist Button – Titanium – Forward Control Designs Collaboration (DLC), Battle Arms Development BAD-ASS safety selector, Strike Industries AR-15 Shift Pins, Geissele Automatics SD-E Trigger, Haley Strategic D3 Sling, Haley Strategic Thorntail QD sling mount

About the owner: Name: Chris Garrison Social: IG & FB @billetriflesystems Occupation: President, Billet Rifle Systems Special Thanks: Russ Bacon for jumping in at the last minute time and time again. Tim and Scott Foster and Johnny Chandler for making the machines cut these parts. My wife, Lauren Garrison, for putting up with my long nights in the shop!

UN12 / Issue 005

UN12mag.com

DEPT. Actual size

Buyer’s Guide

Atibal 1 inch

Atibal X 1-10x30 FFP, ED Glass, Mil Reticle Magnification: 1-10x Focal Plane: First Focal Plane Objective Lens Diameter: 30mm Eye Relief: 3.6 - 5.5 in. Field of View: 1x: 101 ft. @ 100 yds. / 10x: 10.1 ft. @ 100 yds.

Variable Low Power

Illumination: Yes, 6 brightness levels, off positions between each selection

Scope Buyer’s Guide

Tube Diameter: 35mm Adjustment Per Click: 1/10 mrad Elevation Adjustment: 120 mrad Windage Adjustment: 110 mrad Weight (No Mount): 1 lb, 5.1 oz. Length: 10.1 in. Reticle: Atibal First Focal Plane Reticle (MIL) Mount & Accessories: Optional Bobro Engineering 35mm Single Lever Mount +$250 Warranty: “No gimmicky names or slogans to make our Lifetime Warranty sound better than it is. At Atibal we call our Lifetime Warranty a Lifetime Warranty. If your Atibal product becomes defective, broken, or is no longer working, we will get it repaired or replaced. It’s that simple.” See atibalsights.com for details.

Text by DANNY CHANG Images by JAMES YORK

hen it comes to scopes, is there such

certainly keep your shots precise without all

thing as too much magnification? If

the heft of a higher-powered optic.

BG-07

you’re shooting at targets well past a few

UN12 / Issue 005

flexibility to dial in just the right amount of

can’t ever have too much magnification.

magnification you need for the shooting

The greater the magnification your scope is

scenario you find yourself in, whether you

capable of, the more precisely you can land

are on a hunt or running and gunning in a

your shot as long as you do your part.

3-gun competition. When choosing an optic,

However, having an overwhelming

other factors such as reticle type, focal plane

drawbacks. Some of these include a more

style, and turret configuration are all up to the

complex scope that leads to increased

user’s preferences. before you take the plunge into such a major

variable low powered scope can be just the

investment, let’s see which are worthy of

optic you need.

your hard-earned dollars. Join us as we take

“Low power” is a relative term; in this

a look at a prime selection of variable low

case, we are talking about scopes that

power scopes. Some are perennial go-to

have magnification power of ten or less.

favorites, while others are brand-new models

Often used from short- to medium-range

offering the latest in optical technology.

distances, a variable low power scope can

Perhaps you’ll find one that’s perfect for you.

01 Side view at 40% scale

To get a better handle on these scopes

looking to take a mile-long shot, perhaps a

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

atibalsights.com

we know that high quality glass is key, but

abundance of magnification can have its

weight and increased cost. If you’re not

MSRP: $800

Variable power capability allows you the

hundred yards, we would usually say you

MIL Reticle (not to scale)

UN12mag.com

Actual size

EOTech Vudu 1-6x Precision Rifle Scope 1 inch

1 inch

Magnification: 1-6x

March Optics D8SV24FIML FMC-2

Focal Plane: First Focal Plane

Magnification: 1-8x

Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm

Focal Plane: First Focal Plane

Eye Relief: 1x: 3.27 - 3.94 in. / 6x: 3.23 - 3.94 in.

Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm

Field of View: 1x: 102.4 ft. @ 100 yds. / 6x: 16.7 ft. @ 100 yds.

Eye Relief: 1x: 3.39 - 3.86 in. / 8x: 3.39 - 3.78 in.

Illumination: Yes, push-button power, auto power shut-off at approx. 2 hrs.

Field of View: 20.0 / 2.5 arc degree; 105.8 / 13.2 ft. at 100 yds.

Tube Diameter: 30mm

Illumination: Yes

Adjustment Per Click: SR2, SR3 Models, approx. 0.5 MOA / SR1 Model, approx. 0.2 mrad

Tube Diameter: 30mm

Elevation Adjustment: ± 14.5 min mrad or ± 50 MOA

Elevation Adjustment: 56 mrad

Windage Adjustment: ± 14.5 min mrad or ± 50 MOA

Weight (No Mount): 1 lb, 1.1 oz.

Adjustment Per Click: 0.1 mrad

Windage Adjustment: 56 mrad

Length: 8.4 in.

Weight (No Mount): 1 lb, 4.1 oz.

Reticle: FMC-2

Length: 10.6 in.

Mount & Accessories: Front & Rear Flip Caps (included), Long Scope Ring (+$190), Zoom Ring Lever (+$53)

Reticle: SR-1, SR-2, SR-3 Mount & Accessories: Mount not included Warranty: “With this limited lifetime EOTECH Advantage Warranty, we warrant that the manufacture and use of your Vudu riflescope will be free of defects in materials and workmanship, regardless of whether you are the original owner. Should your Vudu riflescope ever experience any defects in materials or workmanship, we will repair or replace it, as determined by EOTECH, with a comparable product, free of charge.” See eotechinc.com for details.

FMC-2 Reticle @ 8x

Warranty: “All March scopes and illumination modules purchased from March Optics USA, Inc., or its agents are warranted for 5 years from the original date of purchase.” See marchoptics.com for details. MSRP: $2,325 marchoptics.com

MSRP: $1,399 eotechinc.com

02 Side view at 40% scale

SR-3 Reticle @ 3x

UN12 / Issue 005

03 Side view at 40% scale

UN12mag.com

Actual size

Meopta Meostar R2 1-6x24 RD 1 inch

1 inch

Magnification: 1-6x

MK1 1-6x24 (w/ Mount)

Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane

Magnification: 1-6x

Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm

Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane

Eye Relief: 3.9 - 3.8 in.

Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm

Field of View: 113 - 19 ft. @ 100 yds.

Eye Relief: 3.5 in.

Illumination: Yes, 8 levels of illumination

Field of View: 116.5 - 19.2 ft. @ 100 yds.

Tube Diameter: 30mm

Illumination: Yes, 10 brightness settings with off positions between each setting

Adjustment Per Click: 0.54 in. / 100 yds. Elevation Adjustment: 145 in. / 100 yds.

Tube Diameter: 30mm Adjustment Per Click: 0.5 mrad

Windage Adjustment: 145 in. / 100 yds.

Elevation Adjustment: 41.5 mrad

Weight (No Mount): 1 lb, 1.4 oz.

Windage Adjustment: 41.5 mrad

Length: 11.7 in.

Weight (No Mount): 1 lb, 2 oz.

Reticle: 4C, KDot2, BDC 2, BDC 3

Length: Not listed

Mount & Accessories: mount not included

Reticle: Mercon Mount & Accessories: Optional Bobro Engineering 30mm Single Lever Mount +$100

Warranty: “North American Lifetime Transferrable Warranty.” Contact Meopta for details. MSRP: $1,880

Warranty: “End of Days.” Contact Rainier Arms for details.

meoptasportsoptics.com/us/

MSRP: $800 Reticle

Side view at 40% scale

BDC 3 Reticle

UN12 / Issue 005

Mercon Optics

rainierarms.com

Side view at 40% scale

05 UN12mag.com

Actual size

1 inch

Nightforce Optics

1 inch

NX8 1-8x24 F1

1-6x24mm SFP Rifle Scope Gen III

Magnification: 1-8x

Magnification: 1-6x

Focal Plane: First Focal Plane

Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane

Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm

Eye Relief: 3.75 in.

Eye Relief: 1x: 3.5 in. / 6x: 3.3 in.

Field of View: 1x: 106.0 ft @ 100 yds. / 8x: 13.2 ft @ 100 yds.

Field of View: 1x: 110.00 ft. @ 100 yds. / 6x: 19.30 ft. @ 100 yds.

Illumination: Yes, daylight visible, adjustable

Illumination: Yes, 11 levels of illumination

Tube Diameter: 30mm

Adjustment Per Click: .50 MOA or .20 mrad

Adjustment Per Click: 0.5 MOA Elevation Adjustment: 100 MOA

Elevation Adjustment: 100 MOA or 30 mrad

Windage Adjustment: 100 MOA Weight (No Mount): 1 lb, 0.9 oz.

Windage Adjustment: 100 MOA or 30 mrad

Length: 10.04 in.

Weight (No Mount): 1 lb, 1 oz. Length: 8.75 in.

Reticle: FC-MOA, FC-Mil

Warranty: “All Nightforce riflescopes are covered by a transferable Limited Lifetime Warranty, which says in simple words, if we did something wrong, we’ll fix it.” Contact Nightforce for details. MSRP: $1,750 nightforceoptics.com

06 Side view at 40% scale

UN12 / Issue 005

4 6 8

Mount & Accessories: Power Throw Lever (PTL) included

FC-Mil Reticle @ 8x

Primary Arms

ACSS Standard Reticle

Reticle: ACSS Standard 5.56 / 5.45 / .308 Mount & Accessories: Many addon options available Warranty: “PA1-6X24SFPACSS-5.56 is protected by the Primary Arms Lifetime Warranty. If a defect due to materials or workmanship, or even normal wear and tear, has caused your product to malfunction, Primary Arms will either repair or replace your product.” Contact Primary Arms for details. MSRP: $290 primaryarms.com

07 Side view at 40% scale

UN12mag.com

Actual size

SIG Sauer

Steiner

Tango6T (SFP) 1 inch

T5XI 1-5x24 (5.56) 1 inch

Magnification: 1-6x Focal Plane: First and Second Focal Plane Available

Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm

Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm

Eye Relief: 3.5 - 4.3 in.

Eye Relief: 1x: 3.9 in. / 6x: 4.1 in.

Field of View: 108 - 21 in. @ 100 yds.

Field of View: 1x: 104.72 ft. @ 100 yds. / 6x: 17.28 ft. @ 100 yds.

Illumination: Yes, illuminated reticle with 4-day/7-day levels

Illumination: Yes

Tube Diameter: 30mm

Adjustment Per Click: 0.1 mrad

Adjustment Per Click: 0.2 mrad (FFP) / 0.5 MOA (SFP)

Elevation Adjustment: 30 mrad Windage Adjustment: 30 mrad

Elevation Adjustment: 31 mrad (FFP) / 105 MOA (SFP)

Weight (No Mount): 1 lb, 3.4 oz.

Windage Adjustment: 31 mrad (FFP) / 105 MOA (SFP)

Length: 11.3 in. Reticle: 3TR 5.56, 3TR 7.62

Weight (No Mount): 1 lb, 4.3 oz. (FFP) / 1 lb, 5.6 oz. (SFP)

Mount & Accessories: Throw lever and Tenebraex lens covers included

Length: 10.65 in. (FFP) / 10.4 in. (SFP

Warranty: “Steiner Heritage Warranty—for the life of the product. We will repair or replace the product at no charge to you. The Steiner Heritage Warranty does not cover loss, theft, deliberate damage or cosmetic damage that does not hinder the performance of the product.” Contact Steiner for details.

Reticle: Mrad, MOA, HellFire TriPlex, 3-Gun, 300 Blackout Horseshoe Dot Mount & Accessories: Throw lever, lens cleaning pen included Warranty: “Infinite Guarantee: SIG Sauer Electro-Optics are guaranteed forever. It’s an unlimited lifetime guarantee.” Contact SIG Sauer for details.

Magnification: 1-5x

3TR Reticle

MSRP: $1,770 steiner-optics.com

MSRP: $1,560 sigsauer.com ELECTRO-OPTICS

RETICLES

TANGO6 1-6x24mm SFP

HELLFIRE 3 GUN RETICLE DIMENSION: MR AD ON HIGH POWER

BL ACK PAT TERN IS NOT ILLUMINATED

SIG SAUER, INC 72 Pease Boulevard Newington, NH 0380 1 USA

1986 1 S W 95 t h Av enue Por tland, OR 97062

UN12 / Issue 005

・TANGO 1-6x24F2 3 Gun Reticle ・Dimension：mil @6x ・Red pattern is illuminated ・Black pattern is not illuminated

SPECS

RED PAT TERN IS ILLUMINATED

TANGO6 1-6x24mm SFP HELLFIRE 3 GUN RETICLE

Hellfire 3-Gun Reticle

Side view at 40% scale

09 UN12mag.com

Actual size

Trijicon

Truglo

Accupower 1-8x28 1 inch

Omnia6 1 inch

Magnification: 1-8x

Magnification: 1-6x

Focal Plane: First Focal Plane

Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane

Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm

Eye Relief: 4.0 - 3.9 in.

Eye Relief: 1x: 4.7 in.

Field of View: 109.2 - 13.1 ft. @ 100 yds.

Field of View: 103.7 - 18.2 ft. @ 100 yds

Illumination: Yes

Illumination: Yes, off positions between each setting

Tube Diameter: 34mm

Tube Diameter: 30mm

Adjustment Per Click: 0.1 mrad

Adjustment Per Click: 0.5 MOA

Elevation Adjustment: 29.6 mrad

Elevation Adjustment: 50 MOA

Windage Adjustment: 29.6 mrad

Windage Adjustment: 50 MOA

Weight (No Mount): 1 lb, 9 oz.

Weight (No Mount): 1 lb, 4 oz.

Length: 10.8 in.

Length: 10.4 in.

Reticle: MOA Segmented Circle Crosshair with LED, Mil Segmented Circle Crosshair with LED

Reticle: APTR Mount & Accessories: Mount and throw lever included

Mount & Accessories: Mount not included

Warranty: “Lifetime Limited Warranty”

Warranty: “Trijicon warrants that products will be free from defects in material and workmanship for the lifetime of the original owner.” Contact Trijicon for details.

MSRP: $369 truglo.com

MSRP: $1,699 trijicon.com

Side view at 40% scale

Segmented Circle Crosshair with LED Reticle

UN12 / Issue 005

Illuminated APTR Reticle

Side view at 40% scale

11 UN12mag.com

Actual size

U.S. Optics SVS 1-6x 1 inch

Magnification: 1-6x Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm Eye Relief: 3.5 in. Field of View: 107.5 - 18.65 ft. @ 100 yds. Illumination: Yes, 10 levels, 3 lower settings are NV compatible Tube Diameter: 34mm Adjustment Per Click: 2/10 mrad adjustments Elevation Adjustment: 50 mrad Windage Adjustment: 50 mrad Weight (No Mount): 1 lb, 6.4 oz. Length: 10.13 in. Reticle: SVS Mil Scale, Mil Type 2 (MT2) Mount & Accessories: Throw lever built in Warranty: â&#x20AC;&#x153;If any U.S. Optics product proves to be deficient in function, quality, workmanship or material, U.S. Optics will repair or replace the product, regardless of transfer of ownership, for life.â&#x20AC;? Contact U.S. Optics for details.

KILLER INNOVATIONS

Strength by Design. From concept & design to production - we offer the very best in the business.

MSRP: $1,299 usoptics.com

Side view at 40% scale

Mil Type 2 (MT2) Reticle

UN12 / Issue 005

Scan this QR Code to download a wallpaper of this rifle & more

www.fortismfg.com UN12mag.com

Actual size

1 inch

Vortex Optics Viper PST Gen II Magnification: 1-6x Focal Plane: Second Focal Plane Objective Lens Diameter: 24mm Eye Relief: 3.8 in. Field of View: 112.5-18.8 ft. @ 100 yds. Illumination: Yes, 10 intensity levels with off positions between each setting Tube Diameter: 30mm Adjustment Per Click: 0.2 mrad Elevation Adjustment: 46 mrad Windage Adjustment: 46 mrad Weight (No Mount): 1 lb, 6.7 oz. Length: 10.9 in. Reticle: VMR-2 (mrad), VMR-2 (MOA) Mount & Accessories: Mount not included Warranty: “We will repair or replace your Vortex product in the event it becomes damaged or defective—at no charge to you. If we cannot repair your product, we will replace it with a product in perfect working order of equal or better physical condition.” Contact Vortex Optics for details. MSRP: $1,000 vortexoptics.com

13 Side view at 40% scale

VMR-2 (mrad) Reticle

UN12 / Issue 005

UN12mag.com

FEATURE

Text by MARTIN ANDERS Images by LAUREN SHORT

: : Owner's first custom firearm : : Chambered in 9mm : : Trigger work by gunsmith Rick Holm

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

UN12 / Issue 005

UN12mag.com

FEATURE

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

verybody remembers his or

customize everything I own. But when

he finally decided to go ahead and

building fully customized pistols due

her first experience, whether

I flip through magazines and Instagram

start a project of his own. He already

to their robust aftermarket support.

it’s a first love, first kiss, first car—or in

and see really cool firearm builds, it

knew that he wanted to go with a

They weren’t sure just how much

Corey’s case, his first ground-up, fully

made me really want to build one, too.”

VP9 as the foundation because of its

they could get done on the VP9, but

familiarity. After doing some research,

had to try anyway. To their surprise,

customized pistol. Working as a law enforcement officer, he is more used to

he’s on patrol is a Heckler & Koch VP9.

he quickly realized that there are far

the duo ended up finding options for

handling plain-Jane issued sidearms

When he started out at his department

fewer custom VP9s than other pistols

just about everything Corey wanted,

and not pistols that are packed full of

he was issued an HK USP. After

like Glocks. This meant that fewer

including custom slide machine work

custom features.

years of carrying it, he’s become very

companies make aftermarket parts

and even an improved trigger. Corey

comfortable with HK pistols (and their

for them and fewer people specialize

carefully mapped out the VP9 project

pieces on the job, Corey finally decided

paddle-style magazine releases). A

in working on them. The lack of

and got the ball rolling by sending his

he wanted to build himself a “fun” gun

couple of years ago he switched to the

options didn’t deter him one bit.

slide to Slideworks Engineering for

for once. He emphasizes: “Almost all of

VP9, which he believes is a much-

my handguns are pretty basic, black in

improved design. He says its striker-fire

virgin VP9, Corey dug deep into

color with stock parts, as a result of my

operation has a better-feeling trigger

customization research, even enlisting

Slideworks Engineering is a machine

career. I always wanted a non-work-

pull than the USP and its ergonomic

his buddy Danny to help search

shop that specializes in custom slide

related gun that I could personalize.”

grip fits his hand like a glove.

high and low for VP9 customization

cuts. They have plenty of profiles

options. They knew that Glocks are

for Glock slides, but the shop also

the popular platform to use when

works on other popular pistols such

After years of using factory stock

He continues: “My needs are pretty basic. I’m not the type who needs to

UN12 / Issue 005

Corey’s sidearm of choice when

It was after a conversation about custom pistols with some friends that

After buying a brand-new,

CNC work. Located in Magnolia, Texas,

Magwell A Taylor Freelance Overdrive billet magwell allows for quick reloads with its competitionstyle funnel.

UN12mag.com

FEATURE UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

as M&Ps, XDs, and CZ P10s. Corey chose

Holm’s Lazy Wolf Guns (LWG), they were

a profile called VP9 Tracer Cut. This cut

understandably skeptical. Since he was

removes material from the slide for a slimmer

going all-out for his first custom gun, Corey

profile and introduces windows on the left

figured he might as well go all the way. He

and right sides, as well as on top. New

chose to send the frame in to LWG for

serrations are also cut into both sides of the

trigger installation and tuning services.

front and rear, and serrations are added to the top the slide.

LWG’s F2 Flat Face VP trigger is a drop-in unit that uses the factory

Corey also opted for an optional RMR cut

trigger bar. Its over-travel stop can

to mount a 3.5 MOA Trijicon RMR Type 2 red

be adjusted externally and offers a

dot. For times he’s not using his RMR, he

90-degree break angle. While the

also had Slideworks Engineering craft him

trigger is a drop-in part, Corey

an RMR cover plate that can be screwed

nevertheless opted to take

on to cover the optic cut. On top of the

advantage of LWG’s expert

Light

slide sit Trijicon Bright & Tough Suppressor Night Sights. The three-dot tritium iron sights allow for quick aim in both bright and low-light situations. The tall suppressor sights perfectly clear the RMR for optic-less targeting. Inside the newly machined slide you’ll find a Brownells Edition Victory First replacement barrel. The barrel is precision-machined from 416R stainless and coated in a non-reflective black nitride finish that gives it exceptional surface wear and abrasion resistance. At the business end you’ll notice the addition of a Texas Black Rifle Company Glock Micro

SureFire X300U-A with a 1,000-lumen output.

“The VP9 has one of the better striker-fire triggers going. Still, the owner felt even that could be improved upon.”

Comp. Although designed specifically for Glock 19s, the comp finds itself very much at home on the VP9. It allows for fast, flat shots due to its recoil mitigation and flat recoil characteristics. With the top of the pistol taken care of, Corey turned his attention to the lower half. After spending some major time sifting through stippler websites online he came across Custom Tactical Concepts, specialists in polymer frame stippling. He made arrangements to have the VP9’s frame stippled in a texture they call Venom. We got to handle the pistol and must say that we thoroughly enjoyed the feel of it. The weblike texture gives added grip without any

services.

overly abrasive feeling. Every portion was

He had them

rounded down but still allows for a confident

install the trigger and

grip. We noticed that the frame was cut

tune the action. The LWG

where the webbing of your hand goes,

HK-MTI service package includes

allowing it to sit deeper for a better overall

LWG trigger installation with comprehensive

grip on the pistol.

action smoothing and tuning for the new

If you’ve ever had the pleasure of shooting

shorter than the trigger would provide by

Overdrive

understand that its trigger is one of the better

itself. Corey also opted for the HK-ACS—

magwell. The billet

striker-fire triggers around. It’s also one of

Action Cleanup Service. This is for the

magwell is flared to allow

the reasons Corey enjoys carrying a VP9 for

smoothing, tuning, and refitting of internal

for quick reloads into a competition-

work as opposed to other pistols. So when

action components. The reported results are

style funnel. Complementing the enlarged

Corey and Danny came across an upgraded

a smooth, clean feel to all trigger motions.

magwell is a set of Taylor Freelance HK

trigger package from gunsmith Rick

trigger. The result is a reduced reset that’s

an HK VP9 straight out of the box, you’ll

UN12 / Issue 005

Completing the lower is a Taylor Freelance

Border Special magazine basepads. The

UN12mag.com

FEATURE

How Does It Shoot?

“Now the biggest problem is fighting the urge to take this pistol to work with him.”

We took Corey’s VP9 to a local indoor range to see how this puppy blasts paper. We felt minimal recoil, especially when shooting 147-grain cartridges, and barely noticed any movement of the RMR’s red dot even when shooting quick double-taps. The fiveshot groups pictured were made at a distance of 21 feet using four different types of Aguila ammunition. Bullet velocity was measured using a Magnetospeed V3 Ballistic Chronograph.

Aguila 9mm Luger 115-grain FMJ Listed: 1,150 fps Max: 1,170 fps Min: 1,134 fps Avg: 1,150 fps

Aguila 9mm Luger 117-grain JHP Listed: 1,150 fps Max: 1,216 fps Min: 1,102 fps Avg: 1,160 fps

Aguila 9mm Luger 124-grain FMJ Listed: 1,115 fps

billet

guys at FNG some general direction of what

It looks good, it’s functional, and I love the

aluminum

he liked and let them do their thing. What he

undercut.”

basepads come in

On the challenges that he had to overcome

red, but Corey’s have been Cerakoted to

with a heaping side of badass. The slide

when working out his first custom build, he

match the pistol. The basepads increase the

and pistol light were completed in a custom

says, “I’d say the creative aspect of planning

VP9’s ammunition capacity from the standard

FNG camouflage called Reaper Camo. The

out this pistol was definitely a challenge for

15 rounds to 20.

frame was finished in a worn tan. It may not

me. Not having dealt with any modifications

be obvious, but the stippled portions of the

like this before, I wasn’t very ‘in the know’

a weaponlight on his pistols, he wanted his

frame were also Cerakoted in a charcoal tone.

about what’s cool and what wasn’t.” To us, it

fun gun to have one too. He chose a SureFire

This all comes together in a visually striking

looks like he managed quite well.

X300U-A for its 1,000-lumen output, large

package.

Because Corey is accustomed to having

now is fighting his urge to bring it to work with

of his first custom gun are. “The trigger,” he

him. Being that this customized VP9 is similar

immediately respeonded. “It was fine-tuned

to a Roland Special Glock 19, we suppose

Cerakoted by FNG Precision Coatings. Being

by Rick Holm himself, and that thing is sweet!

that a build like it could find its way to his

that this was Corey’s first custom gun, he at

I also really liked how the Cerakote turned out.

duty belt one day. Considering that this was

first didn’t know exactly what color scheme

I’ve never had anything like it before. Finally,

Corey’s first custom build, we look forward to

he wanted to go with. All he knew was that

I really like the grip work and stipple job. It’s

seeing what he comes up with next.

he didn’t want it to be black. He gave the

different from any stippling I’ve seen before.

[ UN12 ]

durability. All the aforementioned parts were

UN12 / Issue 005

Min: 1,068 fps Avg: 1,114 fps

Custom Tactical Concepts “Venom” texturing.

Aguila 9mm Luger 147-grain FMJ

Corey also tells us that the biggest problem

We asked Corey what his favorite parts

center spot beam pattern, and exceptional

ended up with is several shades of awesome

Max: 1,159 fps

Grip

Ammo We shot four different Aguila loads through the VP9; results pictured at right.

Listed: 950 fps Max: 994 fps Min: 895 fps Avg: 945 fps

UN12mag.com

UN12

E X P L O D E D VIEW

Corey’s

Custom HK VP9 Specifications: Caliber: 9mm Length: 9 in. Barrel: Brownells Edition Victory First VP9 Weight w/o magazine: 1 lb, 12.6 oz. Coating: Cerakote by FNG Precision Coatings Slidework: Slideworks Engineering Framework: Custom Tactical Concepts

Featured Accessories: Sights: Trijicon Bright & Tough Suppressor Night Sights Optic: Trijicon RMR Type 2 (3.5 MOA) Magazine: HK with Taylor Freelance HK Border Special Parts & Accessories: Lazy Wolf Guns LWG F-2 (Flat Face) Trigger, Lazy Wolf Guns HK Armorers Inspection (HK-AICS), Lazy Wolf Trigger Installation with Action Tuning (HK-MTI), Taylor Freelance HK VP 9/40 Magwell, SureFire X300U-A, Texas Black Rifle Company Glock Micro Comp V3, Werkz Original Custom Holster, Werkz Original Double Mag Carrier

Carry The VP9 and magazines are secured in a Werkz holster and double mag carrier.

About the Owner Name: Corey F. Occupation: Law enforcement officer Special Thanks: Danny and all the companies that helped me complete this pistol.

UN12 / Issue 005

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

FEATURE

Kel-Tec CP33 & KS7

CP33 After all the legal paperwork was out of the way, the secret stash came out. Sixteen-year Kel-Tec design engineer Tobias Obermeit unveiled their newest handgun, which closely resembles the PMR30, dubbed the CP33. The CP33 is a competition-ready .22 LR that holds a whopping 34 rounds (33+1). Let that sink in for a moment. Creating a doublestack .22 magazine is no easy feat, and

Text & Images by JODY LEWIS

Kel-Tec has been working on it since 2012. They succeeded in perfecting it and thus

or nearly three decades, Kel-Tec, led by

and engineering folks for a few days. During that

inventor George Kellgren, has designed and

time, we would eat well, shoot guns, and listen to

patented it. The CP33 sports a solid-mounted 5.5-inch

manufactured firearms that are distinctive, functional,

Johnny Cash on a record player. It was not at all what I

barrel with a 1:14 twist, integrated Picatinny

and certainly innovative. Their long list of successful

expected. By the end of the event, I was impressed by

top rail, M-Lok attachment points in the

firearms includes the Sub-2000 (formally Sub-9), SU-16,

the folks from Kel-Tec and their commitment to produce

front, and a rear charging handle. It comes

RFB, KSG, RDB, P-11, PMR30, and CMR30, to name

the best product they can. Their dedication and resolve

standard with a ½-28 threaded barrel and

just a few.

makes me proud to be a Kel-Tec owner.

adjustable fiber-optic sights. At 24 ounces, it

Not one to rest on past successes, Kel-Tec recently

In addition to the great Kel-Tec folks, the High Bar

is impressively lightweight.

announced two new firearms to the lineup. We were

Homestead facility and staff were equally amazing.

granted unparalleled first access to put hands on pre-

From the onset, they treated us like family and I

thousands of rounds through the CP33 on

production samples before anyone else at a private

personally cannot wait to go back. So enough of the

multiple ranges in freezing cold weather. The

event this past November.

love-fest, let me tell you about the good stuff.

gun performed flawlessly, which says a lot for

Leaving rainy Seattle behind, I traveled to Gillette,

When I asked one of the Kel-Tec engineers why they

Over the course of three days, we put

a .22. We also ran it suppressed without any

Wyoming, home of the High Bar Homestead, an old

had gone through so much effort to have us all out, they

ranch turned private shooting range, to see firsthand

told me no one outside of Kel-Tec had seen nor heard

Kel-Tec’s new offerings. When I arrived, it was 14

of their new guns and they wanted to put them through

improperly, it will result in a jam. The .22 round

degrees and lightly snowing. I and a few other writers

their paces. Basically, they wanted to see if we could

is rimmed and you must take special care

and bloggers were shacked up with Kel-Tec’s marketing

break them. Challenge accepted!

not to load the top round with the rim behind

hiccups. I will note that if you load the magazine

the one below it; doing so will always create a feeding issue. I learned that the hard way, but once you figure out the orientation for loading it, it’s pretty much a no-brainer. As an

Kel-Tec CP33

added bonus, Kel-Tec had the foresight to

Caliber: .22LR

manufacture the magazines in clear polymer,

Overall Length: 10.6 in.

so it’s easy to inspect rounds to ensure

Barrel Length: 5.5 in.

proper feeding.

Barrel Twist: 1:4

All in all, the CP33 is the PMR30’s “big little brother”—bigger in stature, but smaller in caliber. One interesting tidbit that Kel-Tec dropped was a potential conversion kit for

Weight (unloaded): 1 lb, 8 oz. Capacity: 33 + 1 keltecweapons.com

PMR30 owners who want to add .22 LR to their PMR. The CP33 magazines do in fact fit the PMR30 as-is. MSRP has not been set as of this writing, but we suspect it will definitely be under the $500 mark, with a street price around $400.

UN12 / Issue 005

UN12mag.com

Kel-Tec CP33 & KS7

KS7 The second firearm introduced to the group was the all-new KS7. Lead designer Ryan Williams spent the past three years developing what is essentially a single-stack KSG. The KS7 is 20% lighter and thinner than the double-tubed KSG. The amount of support Kel-Tec is throwing at the KS7 is impressive, too. Not only will it will come in a variety of colors, but there will be three different barrel lengths, including 18.5 and 28 inches. There will be multiple rail options, including a flat-top Picatinny-railed version, a stripped-down, no-rail Magpul MBUS version, and a highrise carry handle option. Additionally, there are tube extensions available for those wanting more than the standard 8 rounds

“In the world of home defense firearms, the KS7 will rank high on the list.”

(7+1). M-Lok is also standard. On the range, the KS7 was very predicable and ran without issue. Loading was simple and weight distribution felt balanced. Unloaded weight is 5.9 pounds, with a fully loaded KS7 coming in at just over 6.5. It will run standard 2.75- and 3-inch shells, along with Aquila’s Minishells, although those may require a double-pump on occasion.

Home on the Range

In the world of home defense firearms, the KS7 will surely rank high on the list. It’s

High Bar Homestead is a 250-acre ranch

one could ever want. Day-to-day operations

a small package that packs a big punch.

property owned by Magpul executive Drake

are managed by Tex, who does it all from

And something that will make many buyers

Clark. There are 20 ranges on-site ranging

barbequing under the hood of an old Chevy to

happy is the projected price, which is said to

from 10 feet to 2,000 yards. There’s steel to

running the range.

be under $500 due to the fact that Kel-Tec

ring from known-distance to natural terrain

engineers were able to use nearly 60% of

and for sub-gun to high-powered rifle. In fact,

features at High Bar Homestead are the wall

IG: @highbarhomestead

the KSG’s design elements.

there are more than 1,000 firearms on-site.

of movie gun props and Johnny’s Shack, a

highbarhomestead.com

I am excited to add these two weapons

The quarters feature and all the amenities

Some very well-thought-out and intentional

High Bar Homestead Location: Gillette, WY

tribute to the late John Noveske.

to my stable once they become available and my wife is excited they won’t break the bank. Let’s just hope Kel-Tec can keep up with demand, because these will be popular. [ UN12 ]

Kel-Tec KS7 Caliber: 12 gauge (3” chamber) Capacity: 6+1, 3” shells / 7+1, 2.75” shells Overall Length: 26.1 in. Barrel Length: 18.5 in. Length of Pull: 13.0 in. Weight (unloaded): 5 lbs, 14.4 oz. keltecweapons.com

UN12 / Issue 005

UN12mag.com

FEATURE

BATTLE ARMS DEVELOPMENT BATTLEARMS MAGWELL GLOCK 19/23/32

KIMBER EVO SP

KRISS USA MAGEX KIT 2

Designed to be the ultimate

The Kriss MagEx Kit 2 is the ultimate capacity extending base plate for your

choice in concealed carry pistols,

factory standard Glock magazines. The Kriss MagEx Kit 2 is made up of

EVO SP (Striker Pistol) was

the extended baseplate, outer sleeve, and extended spring, constructed

tailored by Kimber engineers to be

of durable and lightweight reinforced composites. Combining the MagEx

BATTLEARMS

the best shooting compact metal-

Kit 2 with the factory standard Glock magazine body and follower is a

enhanced carry

framed pistol on the market.

perfect match of reliable feeding, toughness, and aesthetics for the Kriss

magwell is designed

Features include an innovative

Vector. The MagEx Kit 2 is available in

for everyday carry,

grip system that eliminates

9mm, 10mm, and .45 ACP; and designed

with benefits for the professional shooter as well. It has a slim profile to

hardware on the grip surface,

for standard capacity G17, G20, and G21

help with conceal carry, but is flared enough to provide benefits to grip

a magazine release that can be

magazines; for an overall capacity of

and reloading. This model easily accepts factory Glock backstraps with no

configured for right- or left-handed shooters, a striker indicator that allows

40 rounds of 9mm, 33 rounds of 10mm,

modification required. Fits Glock Gen 1-4 and Polymer80 Frames. Does not

for both a visual and physical confirmation the striker is cocked, ledged

and 30 rounds of .45 ACP for your Kriss

new year brings a fresh start and a sense of optimistic wonder.

work on Gen 5 at this time.

night sights for single hand manipulations and a sight picture no matter

Vector or Glock

What will the New Year bring us? Good health and success? Only

$110

the light conditions, and a 6-7 pound trigger with crisp reset. Available in

handgun.

battlearmsdevelopment.com

multiple colors and trims, the Custom Shop version is shown here.

$36

can actually predict. We love new gear and we know you do too. That’s

Starting at $856

kriss-usa.com

why it’s always exciting to get a sneak peek at what cool new products

kimberamerica.com

Sneak Peek Text by MICHAEL GREY

time will tell, but in the meantime, let’s get a sneak peek at things that we

have just been released or are coming out. The following is a selection of the latest products from some of the best innovators in the industry. Let’s take a look at what we can expect to see come down the pipeline this year.

BIG DADDY UNLIMITED SF-10 The SF-10 is a DPMS GEN II compatible small-frame AR-10. The SF-10 is quite a bit smaller than a full-size AR-10, resulting in a lighter, more dynamic large-caliber rifle. Weight and size reduction is accomplished through a

ATIBAL SIGHTS S.A.P.

smaller upper and lower receiver, reduced sized Bolt Carrier Group, and

The Atibal S.A.P. is the smallest prism scope on the market to date.

This rifle is an exclusive offering only available at Big Daddy Unlimited.

Weighing just 4.1 ounces and just

$3,199

over 2.25 inches long, this 1x red

bigdaddyunlimited.com

barrel extension. The SF-10 16-inch barrel .308 weighs just 6.9 pounds.

optics. It runs on a single 2032

MAGPUL MOE-EVO GRIP / MOE-EVO ENHANCED MAGAZINE RELEASE / PMAG 35 EV9 FOR CZ SCORPION EVO 3

battery that’s good for 1,000

Magpul has released a trio of upgrades for your CZ Scorpion EVO 3 family of pistols and carbines. The MOE-EVO Grip is an optimized drop-in upgrade that

hours on medium brightness.

features an enhanced grip angle and Magpul’s proprietary TSP texture on contact surfaces. The MOE-EVO Enhanced Magazine Release’s paddle design

Choose from eight brightness

allows for easy one-handed activation and magazine extraction, maximizing economy of movement. PMAG 35 EV9 is a lightweight, 35-round, 9x19mm CZ

settings; this fully featured “Small

Scorpion EVO 3-compatible magazine. It provides optimal round stack geometry, giving the large format pistol, PCC, and SMG market Magpul reliability and

Ass Prism” red dot is also water-,

increased magazine capacity in a pistol caliber magazine.

shock-, and fog-proof.

Grip $25 / Mag Release $25 / Magazine $20

atibalsights.com

magpul.com

dot is the ultimate in lightweight

DEAD FOOT ARMS FOLDAR 300 BLACKOUT DOUBLE FOLDING AR-15 BUILDERS KIT

FORTIS SLS FIFTY SAFETY SELECTOR (50 & 90 DEGREE)

GEAR HEAD WORKS ONE PISTOL

Fortis made sure the brand’s innovation, intent, and quality were evident in

Gear Head Works One Pistol is a bolt-action pistol based on a highly

every aspect of the SLS FIFTY’s design. While most AR safety selectors in

customized Remington Model 700 action. This unique firearm is

MIDWEST INDUSTRIES COMBAT RIFLE SIGHT SET

the market today rely on standard socket/torx screws, the Fortis SS FIFTY

chambered in 300 Blackout and can be ordered with custom accessories

Made for AR-15/M4/

The FoldAR folding upper

was engineered with the company’s patent-pending RidgeKey locking

directly from Gear Head Works. Choose everything from the type of pistol

M16 rifles and other

receiver is the only upper

mechanism. This system allows the lever to secure itself onto the selector

grip to custom barrel work and unique Cerakote options.

similar platforms, the MI

receiver on the market that

core with a solid point of contact that eliminates any weak points in the

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$150 midwestindustriesinc.com

UN12 / Issue 004

UN12mag.com

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UN12 / Issue 004

UN12mag.com

FEATURE

Assault Packs

Warfighter Packs

shock cord, caps, MG ammo, and so on was carried by a single individual. This made sure that the loss of one or more men would not compromise our ability to carry out the mission. It also kept any single individual from being overly burdened. Team gear is always a priority. If you can’t make sure you have it on the objective, why’d you and your guys even get out of bed that morning? I like to break down pack loadouts into three main mission categories: Direct Action, Assault, and Long-Range Patrol. What I’m doing will dictate what I bring to the shindig (I’m not hauling a sleeping bag to a DA mission). But the mission types

Text & Images by CHARLES “CHIP” LASKY

listed above can be translated to TOT (Time on Target). Typically, a Direct Action mission is

o doubt you’ve seen tons of movies,

pounds, and pounds equal pain.” Well,

TV shows, and other media depicting

it’s true. While the more gear you carry

going to be measured in hours. Transport

warfighters schlepping big packs and rucks

means you’ll be able to handle more types

will either put us on the target or a short

that look like they’re about to burst with all

of situations, it also means you’re carrying

distance from it. We will assault the target

sorts of hate-filled goodness. Ever wonder

more weight. The trick is paring the packing

and exfil. Support is on station. I define an

what’s in them? Every Hollywood actor’s

list down to the bare essentials for mission

Assault Mission as lasting 24 to 48 hours.

pack is chock full of bubble wrap, packing

success and personal survival.

These typically require a longer movement

peanuts, and other weightless material.

Choosing a proper pack and pack size

to the target and will usually mean we are

Now you know. Let’s examine what a

is entirely mission-specific. The types of

in the field at least overnight (maybe a bit

warfighter actually carries in his pack.

combat missions and requisite gear are

longer), but we will either vehicle exfil or

too numerous to address in a single article.

receive resupply. Long-Range Patrol means

staple in the warfighter’s kit. They come in

So I’m going to keep mission profile rather

several days to a week on our own. Of

all forms, shapes, and sizes. The back has a

generic and talk about three main types of

course, something can always happen that

lot of muscles and bone structure working in

loadouts. For the most part, I’ll focus on

causes the mission to go sideways, and we

concert to provide ample hauling capability.

personal gear. If your team is going outside

could be in the field longer. That’s more of

And the sheer size of some available rucks

the Green Zone, your mission will dictate

an E&E scenario. At that point we would be

can allow individuals to carry obscene

certain objectives. Mission-specific gear

relying on all that awesome SERE training.

amounts of gear and provisions. New

will be required for successful completion

But that’s for a different article.

recruits will often marvel at the amount of

of mission objectives and will need to

As usual, I do not work for any of the

stuff they get issued, imagining all the cool

be evenly distributed among the team

companies whose gear I am going to be

things they can do with it. But seasoned

members.

discussing. These products are what I

Historically, backpacks have been a

Everyone shoulders (pun intended) a

have used personally and stand behind

immediately start thinking about how they

portion of the team gear load. As a team

after personal experience. I’m not acting

can cut a lot of it out of their load.

leader, I ensured redundancy in equipment

as a brand ambassador for any of these

carriage. For example, not all our demo,

companies.

vets will often look at a pile of gear and

You’ve heard the saying: “Ounces equal

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

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UN12 / Issue 005

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FEATURE

everyone who lives in a trailer is a criminal.) My main objective on the target is to apply overwhelming force so that the opposition is neutralized. I don’t need sustainment items. For a DA mission, I really like the Crye Precision AVS 1000 Pack. It is one of the most streamlined packs on the market and is perfectly sized to carry just enough. This is an important concept. Assault packs have a habit of developing “mission creep.” Designers are constantly looking to differentiate their product in an oversaturated market by adding all sorts of features. As a gear designer, I can appreciate this. But as a (former) commando, I don’t. The bigger the bag, the more crap I’m inclined to put in it.

“The smaller and lighter, the better. It should be streamlined and fit within the footprint of the plate carrier.” The AVS 1000 is completely configurable as a standalone pack or can be integrated directly with various Crye Precision plate carriers. The modularity of Crye’s products is simply astounding. Not only do I appreciate it from an operational level as a former end user, but also from a design level as someone

Direct Action Pack

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UN12 / Issue 005

who holds a degree in industrial design. That said, I prefer to use the AVS 1000 as a standalone pack. While it is more streamlined if it’s directly attached to my rear plate bag, I don’t like the prospect of needing a buddy to access the contents for me. One of the features of the AVS 1000 design is a by individuals on the target is small. The

quick-clip setup that will integrate with the

small-scale raid or short-duration strike. It

purpose is fast application of overwhelming

AVS plate carrier system. Since I primarily

can encompass a broad range of objectives,

force on the target. Take only what is needed

run a JPC2, I can’t make as much use of this

but is usually carried out in hostile-controlled

for the assault and follow-on SSE (Sensitive

feature. But I’d still configure my pack as a

areas and involves offensive actions to

Site Exploitation).

standalone unit even if I did wear an AVS.

A Direct Action mission usually refers to a

destroy targets, capture enemy personnel,

For a Direct Action mission, I like to carry

I like a standalone pack setup due to the

recover assets, or rescue hostages. The time

a small pack that can cinch down tight to

ability to quickly sling it over a shoulder

on target is usually measured in minutes or

my back. The smaller and lighter, the better.

when I need to move, or even if I’m not

hours at most. DA missions can be single

I want it to be streamlined and fit within the

ready to move (and the shoulder straps are

strikes or daisy-chained into multiple hits

footprint of my plate carrier. Larger “3-Day

thin enough that they don’t interfere with

on multiple targets by the same team over

Assault Packs” are hard to maneuver in tight

shouldering my rifle even though they’re

the course of a day or night. Sometimes,

spaces that are often found in Third World

layered on top of my plate carrier shoulder

unplanned secondary and tertiary DA

targets. Doors are not exactly built to code

straps). There’s been times when I’ve gone

missions can occur due to time-sensitive,

in other parts of the world. But the same

to grab something out of my pack and the

actionable intelligence gained at the first

requirement could be applied to domestic

team starts moving, or the bad guys pick that

target location. Regardless, support and

law enforcement who may need to hit a

moment to start putting effective fire on my

the ability to rearm/refit is never far. So, the

trailer or other ramshackle abode used by a

position. Either way, the situation dictates my

amount of tertiary gear needed to be carried

criminal. (Please note, I’m not implying that

posture, not the other way around.

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FEATURE

DAP

In my assault pack, I’m going to carry the bare essentials to allow me to prosecute the target.

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UN12 / Issue 005

1-liter hydration bladder with water: Water is required to keep the body and mind at peak performance levels. And you can never get enough of it after the massive adrenaline dump from a violent action. Energy bars: I like calorie, carbohydrate, proteindense bars. These aren’t meals. They are simply meant to get nutrients back into the bloodstream after a drama. Even seasoned warriors will develop the shakes after a fight. Blood sugar drops and needs to be elevated. Extra ammo: I will carry three or four extra magazines for my primary weapon. While we always aimed to overwhelm the target and end fights as quickly as possible, shit sometimes happens. I carried ammo pre-loaded in magazines so they could immediately feed my gun or replenish my mag pouches. Jamming mags while rounds are flying is cause for concern. Extra frags: In a fight, things that go “bang” are good. Things that go “boom” are better. And

more things that go “boom” are best. I carried two frags on my person and another two in my pack. It’s as important to backfill grenades as it is to backfill magazines. NVGs: I always brought NVGs on a hit. Even during the day? Yes. A subterranean tunnel found during a raid is just as dark at 1200 as it is at 0200. Be prepared. Extra radio battery: AAs, AAAs, 123s, and 1632s are kept in my shoulder sleeve pockets. But I’m not putting an MBITR or other large battery in there too. Communication is the lifeline for the modern commando. We can do what we do because we have a lot of support. But that support means nothing if we can’t talk to it. Electrical tape: A warfighter’s world is held together with 100-mph tape. But rolls of it are big and heavy. Smaller rolls are fine for survival kits and IFAKs, but they are not as quickly accessed as a roll of black electrical tape. What do I use this for? Everything.

Weapon maintenance kit: If my gun stops working, I need to get it back up as soon as possible. VS17 Panel: Sometimes the old way of marking a friendly position to aerial assets is the best and easiest.

The AVS 1000 will hold more than the contents listed here, but I try to not overstuff it with my personal gear. Mission-critical team gear may still need to be carried (demo, prisoner control, CBRN). I like to lay out my gear in a hierarchy that makes sense for the purpose of the mission. In a DA mission, we are usually there to break as much shit as we can. So offensive items are the most important. The outside of the AVS is very clean, with no extra pockets or bulges. This makes it very handy for not catching on things as I move. I keep the water bladder, energy bars, NVGs, extra batteries, tape, and mission-critical gear in the main compartment. The top outer pocket holds extra mags. The middle outer compartment holds extra frags. The bottom outer compartment holds the VS17 panel. I want to be able to have access to the items that help me fight and mark my position as friendly to gunships without needing to dig for them.

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FEATURE

circles as a brand built on performance and rugged durability. When SOF teams started buying their products off the shelf for use down range, MR stepped up and started creating packs and pouches designed for their mission requirements. The unique tri-zip layout of their 3-Day Assault Pack allows

“A staple in the warfighter’s gear locker, it allows you to carry enough gear for 48 to 72 hours before resupply.” access as a top-open ruck, or you can lay it completely open to access contents at the bottom. The splay-open feature is most appealing. One universal rule when working out of a pack in enemy-controlled territory: never take anything out of your pack except for the items you mean to retrieve. If you

3-Day Assault Pack

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UN12 / Issue 005

make contact in the middle of a yard sale, you’ll need to leave all your crap behind. An assault pack needs to offer the ability to splay open down the center, or incorporate a horseshoe opening that allows it to open flat. I have been caught with my pack off and need to quickly move. For this reason, I’m field for at least 24 hours, to a maximum of

really drawn to the Mystery Ranch tri-zip

doubt we all have several of these. Every

72 hours. Unlike a Direct Action mission,

design. If I need to move out quickly, I don’t

tactical nylon company on the market seems

an assault mission will require or pose the

need to dick around fighting material to zip

to have at least a dozen variations. The 3-Day

possibility of requiring me to spend the

the pack up around the perimeter. The single

Assault Pack is a staple in every warfighter’s

night. It could be a job requiring us to move

center zip is chunky and can be zipped in a

gear locker. It’s sort of a go-to pack that

overland for a distance from the infil point to

single motion. I can leave the top unsecured,

allows you to carry enough gear for 48 to 72

avoid detection of vehicles. It could mean we

letting the weight of its contents hold it down

hours before resupply. Depending on the

are to seize an objective and hold it. I will not

while I hastily shoulder it and move. Then I

area of operations, you could realistically live

have a bed and kitchen for at least one night,

can secure the rest of it once I reach a safe

out of a good 3-Day Assault Pack for up to a

but I’m not expecting to be outside the wire

location. I also like this pack’s streamlined

week with a thoughtful loadout. For instance,

for a week. The main objective is going to still

exterior. I can place pockets where I want

hotter climates with no dramatic day/night

require contact with an enemy force. So I’m

them, rather than a manufacturer telling me

temperature shifts do not require extra

going to place more emphasis on bringing

where the best place to put outer pockets is.

layers that may need to be shed throughout

things that help me fight over things that

The foam bolsters on either side of the body

an operation, making more room for other

provide creature comfort.

work well to keep the pack in place with a

The ubiquitous “3-Day Assault” pack—no

supplies. I’m going to choose a 3-Day Assault Pack if the mission calls for my team to be in the

I’ve long been a fan of the Mystery Ranch

plate carrier. I can’t emphasize enough how

3-Day Assault Pack. Mystery Ranch is well

much this increases stability and comfort

known in commercial hiking/adventuring

during longer treks.

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FEATURE

It’s important to prioritize gear. Obviously, the most readily accessible items need to be munitions and other items required to fight. If a mission is going to last several days, that means at some point the pack is going to come off. For that reason, I like to keep a couple magazines and frags in pouches on the outside of the pack. These pouches need to be closed-top for retention. But if I’m fighting with my pack off, I can quickly grab ammo and frags from the surface. I am going to reload from here first, just in case I need to ditch the pack. Doing this allows me to keep ammo on my plate carrier or chest rig. If my pack is still with me later on, I will backfill the outer pouches with more contents from the inside. The machine gun belt is also going to be kept at the top of the pack. If the gunner needs more ammo, the team’s priority is to get it to him. I don’t want to dig to find it. Belted ammo is also heavy, so keeping it higher up on the back is better for long-term comfort. For those who read the articles on plate carrier and belt setup, you know that my methodology revolves around ammo placement. As a warfighter, your purpose is to fight. Ammo and the other tools you will need to fight have priority for access. That’s why I only want mags and frags in outer pockets. If you are retrieving something from your pack other than ammo, you probably have a little more time than if you are needing to feed

3-DAP

your gun.

108

UN12 / Issue 005

My typical 3-Day Assault Pack loadout is going to look something like this.

Hydration bladder with water: I will probably keep a 1L bladder in the pack to conserve space and weight (as long as there are water sources to replenish along the route). Mobility is key. Iodine: Water purification is incredibly important. Filter pumps are cool, but they can break and they’re slow. If we stop at a water source to refill, I don’t want to be sitting out in the open for any longer than I need to. Iodine can be added after the bladder is filled, takes up less space and weight, and has no mechanical parts or filters to break. Energy bars: I like good old-fashioned Cliff Bars. They are calorie- and carbohydrate-dense. A trail mix of assorted nuts, raisins, and seeds is good, too. Mountain House meals: Each packet is designed to provide three servings. Essentially, you just add water and stir. They have re-sealable closures, but I store leftovers in a secondary Ziploc bag. The instructions say to use hot water for mixing, but these work just as well cold. I

can also carry double the amount versus MREs. Spork and cover: Gotta have something to eat with. The cover is important for hygiene. The field is nasty and your gear gets nastier. All sorts of bacteria can harm you. Getting the runs pre-assault is enough to slow down even the best commandos. Baby wipes/TP: Runs or no, we all gotta crap in the woods. TP is essential to cleaning up. The smart kids bring a package of baby wipes. Cleaning your nethers is the one luxury that any warfighter will tell you is an essential in the field. They can also be used for expedient field showers. Trash bag: Everyone on the team needs to carry a heavy duty trash bag. You don’t want to leave anything behind that can put a reaction force on your tail. They also double as SSE bags. Issued poncho and 550 cord: Ponchos can be used as makeshift blankets or shelters when combined with 550 cord. They can also help keep you dry

when sleeping on the ground. Waking up in the field is going to make you cranky. Waking up covered in dew means you’re wet and cranky. Hat/gloves/neck gaiter: These bits are imperative to keeping warm in the field. Goretex outer layer: Goretex keeps you dry and windproof. Cold and wind will sap the life out of the toughest among us. I’ve used Arc’Teryx LEAF Alpha jackets and pants for years. Change of socks: Take care of your feet. They take you where you’re going. If your feet get wet, change your socks. Keep cycling them. Compass/map: We all use GPS these days. It’s a great tool, but it can fail. A good lensatic compass and map (in a case) will allow you to check headings and continue navigating when batteries fail. Extra radio battery Electrical tape IFAK: I tend to carry extra IFAK contents in my pack. This is tertiary to the IFAK on my person.

VS17 Panel 6” chemlights: These are great for marking and signaling. Extra ammo: Due to the duration of the mission, I will not only carry 4-6 extra magazines of ammo for my primary, but everyone on the team will carry an extra belt of ammo for the machine gun. The machine gun is the team’s base of fire, and it gets hungry. The gunner can only carry so much because he also needs to carry personal gear. Everyone pitches in to make sure the machine gun stays fed. If you’re feeling generous, a belt already loaded into a 100-round nut sack makes reloading the MG faster. But, there is a weight penalty. Extra frags Extra smoke grenades: Smoke is useful for all sorts of reasons.

The inside of the pack is laid out with lightweight, non-fighting gear at the bottom. I roll up my Goretex pants and jacket at the bottom. The poncho is rolled up and placed over that. These items do not require quick access. My water bladder runs down the center of the pack, behind a pass-through sleeve covered in PALS. This sleeve puts pressure on the bladder to ensure good water pressure. It also gives me a place to attach my Emdom/MM NVG case. I like this case because it fits my PVS-31s perfectly, provides plenty of protection for them, and it’s lower profile than other cases. This allows easy access to other items packed around it. The central location of the NVG case means it’s easier for me to find in the dark and even more protection for its contents. I keep an extra IFAK insert in a vacuum-sealed packet in the main compartment as well. The internal mesh zip pockets hold smaller items like batteries, a compass, tape, and iodine bottles. I keep a couple extra rifle mags in the larger top pocket for easy access. This means I don’t

NVGs

need to access the main compartment to get

Pack cover: To make sure my pack and its contents stay dry.

more ammo. The very top slit zipper pocket holds my energy bars. I want to be able to get to these without accessing the main compartment. When it comes to fast-access pockets, I only want a single item type inside if possible.

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20 minutes into the patrol. Figuring out what to bring with you and what to leave behind is informed by a few things: 1. What is the mission? 2. What are the veterans packing for said mission? 3. What has your personal experience taught you about packing for this type of mission? Generally speaking, an LRP mission is carried out by a small team of individuals. They will be traveling behind enemy lines with limited ground support. The objective is usually reconnaissance, but it can also be search and destroy or personnel recovery. To address all of these mission sets would require way more space than we have here, so we’re going to talk about recon. Recon involves the gathering of intelligence through observation and reporting it back to command. It usually consists of bringing back photographic or physical evidence

Long Range Patrol

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UN12 / Issue 005

“LRP requires more gear to be carried than any other type of operation, usually 96+ hours outside the wire.” A Long Range Patrol (LRP) mission

courses. A warfighter needs to be able to

encompasses a wide operational duration.

carry a heavy load on his back, over long

that can be used to plan a strike mission.

It usually means 96-plus hours outside the

distances and in a timely manner, and be

Regardless, the mission objective is not

wire before Return to Base (RTB) or resupply.

prepared to carry out the mission upon arrival

to make contact with the enemy (but to be

It also means you’re going to be living off the

at the target (and then carry all that crap back

prepared in case it happens).

land to a large extent for this amount of time.

out with you).

I am a fan of the Arc’Teryx Khard60 for

I’ve seen rucks that are so big you could

many reasons. Aesthetically, it’s a beautifully

gear to be carried by individuals than any

probably fit a side of beef in them. Some have

sleek pack. Why is this important? Outwardly,

other type of military operation. In some lucky

the hauling capacity to carry every piece of

(even in the Crocodile color) it does not

instances we have motor transport to help

personal issued gear, a complete 120mm

scream “military.” This can be important in

us cover vast distances. ATVs, Desert Patrol

mortar, and the kitchen sink. And while rucks

non-permissive environments that aren’t

Vehicles, even HUMVEEs can be employed

keep getting bigger with more features and

necessarily warzones or austere mountain

to help small LRP teams move faster, cover

capabilities, I’m still trying to figure out how

tops in Pakistan. The lack of lots of little

more terrain, and carry more gear. But the

to carry less. We could go crazy thinking up

pockets and straps on the outside also helps

mission or the AO does not always permit

every scenario, every contingency, and every

it move easily through all sorts of terrain. It

such luxuries. This is why we spent so much

eventuality where every piece of cool guy

has fewer straps and crevices to catch debris

time on ruck marches and long walks in the

gear on the Scheels store shelf could help in

and foliage.

woods during basic training and selection

some way. You won’t want to carry it about

This type of mission is going to require more

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FEATURE

This gear would all be augmented by mission-

Khard60 has large Velcro panels lining the entire

critical team gear such as demo, rockets, laser

interior. This makes it very easy to attach LBX Pack

guidance systems, and so on. But this is a basic

Inserts. These inserts are self-contained zippered

load I would carry for a LRP. It’s important to note

pockets covered with Velcro hook on the back. I

that this loadout is not all encompassing.

organize the pack contents by type/job into these

I am obsessive about setting my gear up in an

pouches, leaving only larger items free in the open

organized fashion. Packs are no exception. The

space. This means that I can quickly toss stuff

outer slit pockets of this pack contain items that

back into the pack, zip it up, and be mobile if the

I will want access to without needing to open

situation calls for it.

the main compartment. On one side I keep my hydration bladder. When stopping to refill water, we

Inner pouches are set up to segregate items into:

want to spend the least amount of time exposed

1. Electronics/signaling (3” large open window pouch)

at the water’s edge. I also keep my VS17 panel in

2. Sustainment/medical/hygiene (3” large open window pouch)

there so I can access it quickly in case emergency de-confliction is required. The other slit pocket has my Goretex jacket and pants and pack cover. This allows me to quickly don dry shell layers in the event of weather change. The top “claymore pocket” has extra mags and frags for quick access in case of heavy contact. One of the great things about the Khard60 is that it opens completely and lays flat for easy assessment of contents. But left unorganized, this can be a major problem. Unzipping a pack that’s just stuffed with stuff is akin to opening a shaken-

3. Batteries/power (small window pouch) 4. Snacks/utensils (medium window pouch) 5. Tools (Medium Window Pouch) Bulkier items are loose in the central open cavity: Sleeping bag Stove/fuel Meal packets NVGs/head harness Binoculars

The internal layout must be thoughtful, providing

up beer. It explodes everywhere. Even though we

a balance between primary access items and

may have set up an observation post and be in a

item weight. I like to keep the lighter items on

relatively safe, defensible position, I never want

the bottom, putting less stress on my back and

to remove a bunch of stuff from my pack. The

shoulders. In this case, the sleeping bag and

LRP

sustainment items are at the bottom because

112

UN12 / Issue 005

Every piece of gear you carry must be interrogated as to whether or not you need to carry it. If I was stepping off onto a LRP mission tomorrow, these are the basic items I would be bringing.

Personal Gear 3-liter hydration bladder with water: The bladder should be at least 3 liters to ensure the team doesn’t need to stop every mile to refill. This bladder will sustain me for the duration of the mission and will be refilled and purified at every opportunity. Iodine: Water must be purified before drinking. Iodine bottles are tiny, yet mighty. Food: Make sure it’s calorie-dense. MREs are great, but they’re big and heavy. The Mountain House Meals (or something similar) are designed to keep you going in austere conditions and are pretty damn tasty. Three packages, combined with energy bars, trail mix, and water can sustain me for up to five days (depending on physical activity). Energy Bars: Energy bars are more important than protein bars. Don’t expect to be getting those gains during a recon mission. Spork: Keep it clean and covered when it’s not in your mouth. Baby wipes / TP

Medications/Ibuprofin: ADHD meds, fish oils, multi-vitamins, whatever you need on a daily basis. Make sure it’s in a silenced bottle.

layers keep me warm and dry at night. Weather can also be unpredictable. Being cold and wet is miserable and degrades combat effectiveness.

Toothbrush and paste: This is one comfort I will afford myself in the field. I may not be changing my clothes for a week, but I’m brushing my teeth.

Crye Precision Assault Ghillie: Extremely effective at breaking up shape and easily donned over regular combat gear. It weighs practically nothing and packs down to the size of a baseball.

Spare socks/ underwear: Socks have been discussed, but underwear with baby powder is also very important. A lot of sweat will form in the groin region while moving. Chafing can make things excruciating. Rotate your underwear or silkies. Sunscreen/insect repellent: This is AOdependent and hould be kept in small container. Warm gloves/hat/ neck gaiter: Again, AO-dependent. I may be wearing these during the patrol. Goretex jacket/pants: My Arc’Teryx Alphas are usually coming with me if I need to spend the night in the field. Sleeping means doing so while exposed to the elements. Goretex

Camo Cream: For obvious reasons.

Sustainment Gear Sleeping bag with Goretex bivy: Sport backpacking sleeping bags are amazingly warm, light, and pack down small. It’s another layer that will keep me warm while sleeping in the field without a tent. Some guys may say this is unnecessary, but I tend to bring one because sleep is important. Can I work without sleep? Sure. Do I want to compromise my combat effectiveness, and therefore the lives of my teammates due to lack of sleep when it’s not my watch? No. Issued poncho and 550 cord

Weapons maintenance kit Shoe Goo adhesive/ electrical tape: This stuff will fix just about anything. Extra batteries: This includes small batteries and radio batteries. Entrenching tool: Don’t leave home without it. MSR Windburner stove: The Windburner starts immediately, has a controlled flame that will not grow bigger than I want it, puts off a ton of heat, boils water quickly, and can act as a heater inside a makeshift shelter in a pinch. It’s well worth the weight penalty. Trash bag: Leave no trace. VS17 panel MS2000 strobe: Visible and infrared output. Flares: I like road flares. They can be used for signaling and starting fires. Lighter: All sorts of uses from fire-starting to fixing frays. Cotton balls and Vaseline: A Ziploc bag of Vaseline-soaked cotton balls is old school fire-

starting, but extremely effective for getting a flame going quick. Signal mirror: Part of the E&E kit. Ruck cover

Personal Mission Gear Extra Ammo: Pre-loaded mags Extra Frags: x2 Smoke Grenades: x2 NVGs and head gear: On an LRP, I’m probably not wearing body armor or a helmet—especially at altitude. I still need a way to wear my night vision. I’m a fan of the Raptor Tactical Sentinel Head Gear. Combined with a Wilcox L4 G24 mount and TNVC Mohawk Mk3, my PVS31s are up and running with minimal size and weight. IFAK: This is just a duplicate of the IFAK worn on my person. Binoculars: What’s the point of recon if you can’t see the target? A good set of binocs is critical to gathering intelligence. I like the

Vortex Optics Razor HD 8x42. Incredible performance for the size and weight. Super-crisp glass and controls easily operable with gloves. Satellite phone: Sat phones can be a lifeline. We’ve all read and/or watched “Lone Survivor,” and know how Lt. Mike Murphy selflessly sacrificed his life to use a satellite phone so he could report TIC when radio comms weren’t working. It’s not necessarily secure, but dire circumstances in the field can call for desperate measures. Communication is the lifeblood of a recon team. Digital camera: Today’s digital cameras have amazing capabilities in tiny packages. Cameras are required for evidence and intel collection. Depending on the mission, the camera in a smartphone may suffice.

they do not require immediate access and they’re lightweight. Batteries, navigation tools, stove, and optics are placed on top in the main compartment because they’re heavier and require faster access. Ammo and frags are at the very top in the top pocket because they require immediate access and happen to be the heaviest items. Like everything else you carry into combat, you need to make sure your pack is only carrying necessary items. It’s so easy to convince yourself that various gadgets and gizmos will be useful in the field. PT is a major aspect of soldiering. But even the strongest will be reduced by fatigue and stress. That’s why it’s so important to design your loadout and then train in it. If you’re planning on bringing a small DA pack to a hit, you better wear it full of everything during runs through the kill house. If you’re tasked with recon, make sure you load up your ruck and start road and trail hiking. Make sure you use packs that are sized to you. Good manufacturers make multiple frame and suspension sizes for different users. Sometimes the difference between a pack being good to go or the bane of your existence is adjusting a strap or balancing the load. The same universal truths apply: Make sure everything you carry is purposeful and packed in a hierarchy that allows you to fight. [ UN12 ]

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FEATURE

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

300 BLACKOUT AR-15 PISTOL Text by DAVID

THORSON

Images by @TRACERXPHOTO

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UN12 / Issue 005

t its inception, the 300 Blackout was met with

availability and its newness led to inconsistent varied

great fanfare but equal amounts of skepticism.

loads from converted brass, ammo manufacturers

It’s essentially a .308 bullet shoved into a cut-down

cutting reloads from cheap, used .223 or 5.56 brass in

cartridge meant for a 5.56 bullet. Would it be another

an attempt to fill orders for a caliber with an uncertain

caliber that gets shelved to become a niche round like

future. Now that manufacturers have realized it’s here

the .50 Beowulf, 6.8 SPC, or 6.5 Grendel? All are great

to stay, they have seriously stepped up their game to

calibers in their respective roles and have their die-hard

make consistent, quality ammo.

fan clubs. However, in its nearly decade of existence,

Rainier Arms, a retailer that is renowned for selling

the 300 Blackout, unlike the aforementioned calibers,

top-tier firearms products for the discerning gun owner,

has steadily become accepted in the mainstream

has recently developed its own line of ammo under

shooting community. And it looks like it’s here to stay.

the brand name Rainier Munitions. No, they don’t

Part of Blackout’s success can be attributed to the

outsource their ammo and rebrand it to their own. They

fact that the only conversion needed to build a 300

have actually spent years developing and perfecting

Blackout AR-15 is a barrel swap. The larger caliber

9mm, .45, .223, 300 BLK, and .308 ammunition for their

swap doesn’t even compromise ammunition capacity,

shooting teams, and have only recently begun making

either. AR-15s that use other boutique calibers, in

this ammo available to the public.

comparison, do not only require the replacement of the

The manager at Rainier Munitions recently showed

barrel. They oftentimes also have reduced-capacity

me the latest results from their newest 300 BLK

magazines, require different bolts and occasionally a

125-grain SST load. It achieved half-inch groups at 100

replacement upper receiver.

yards, which is impressive for a Blackout round. The

One of the most common misconceptions of the 300 Blackout is that it’s never been known to be the king of accuracy. Early in the caliber’s life, the lack of ammo

: : Sub-MOA AR pistol : : Chambered in 300 Blackout

ammo is specifically tuned for Rainier Arms 10.5-inch Ultramatch MOD2 Barrel with a 1:7.5 twist. It was hearing these results that set me on the path

: : Ammunition-specific matched barrel

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115

FEATURE

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

of building the gun you see here. I wanted to

there is a wide gamut that would absolutely

Unfortunately, there was no way to SBR

try my hand at building a hard-hitting, 300

be suitable. However, I had to go back to a

this build in time for our press deadline, so I

BLK chambered, maneuverable, 10.5-inch-

trigger I’m used to. The Geissele Super Semi

opted to make this a pistol build and install

barreled gun that’s capable of sub-MOA hits.

Auto Enhanced Trigger has a 2.3-pound first

the Maxim Defense CQB Pistol Brace with

Follow along as I run through the different

stage and a 1.2-pound second stage. Its

their proprietary JP Silent Captured spring.

components used in this build.

minimal hammer mass reduces pre-ignition

Arguably one of the best-looking braces

vibration, aiding in enhanced accuracy.

on the market, it was a perfect fit for the

While nearly any AR-15 receiver set will

Due to the many ammunition options on

truly taking advantage of sub-MOA potential

the market for 300 BLK ammo, I chose to use

requires tighter-than-standard-tolerance

Bootleg Builder Inc.’s adjustable bolt carrier

introduced their Night Rail, which features

components. A 7075 billet matched receiver

group. Any 300 BLK build is intended to easily

an incredibly innovative barrel nut mounting

set is a must. I chose the Ascend Armory

shoot supersonic and subsonic loads, either

solution. Since its release, the Night Rail has

Lightweight Matched Billed Receiver Set

suppressed or unsuppressed. However, the

become one of my go-to handguards when I

based not only on performance but also

only way to do that reliably without having to

want to make the coolest-looking gun around.

aesthetics. Another advantage of any of the

use an adjustable gas block is by using an

The best part about mating the 10-inch

Ascend Armory receiver sets is that most of

adjustable bolt carrier group. The Bootleg

handguard with the 10.5-inch barrel is that

the parts come pre-installed. All you have to

BCG has four gas settings and can be easily

it perfectly fits a suppressor, leaving just a

do to complete the receivers is add a trigger,

tuned with a small flathead screwdriver to

couple millimeters of gap between the two.

dust cover, and safety selector.

perfect the gas settings for your ammunition

Trigger preference is very subjective and

03 116

aesthetics of this build.

suffice to build a 1- to 2-MOA 300 BLK gun,

UN12 / Issue 005

At SHOT Show 2017, Fortis Manufacturing

With a standard 5.56/.223 round, the only way to really take advantage of the bullet’s

of choice.

Tyrant Designs’ Mod Grip features a 7075 Aluminum body and interchangeable polymer composite front and back straps.

The Rainier Arms Safety Selector Switch can be configured in 90- or 45-degree throw configurations.

The dust cover is one component you will need to install on the lower receiver.

Rainier Arms BUIS feature a Blizkrieg Components chevron/tritium dot insert.

04 UN12mag.com

117

FEATURE

powder burn for maximum velocity is using at

FPS, it’s become

price

least 14 to 16 inches of barrel length. Not so

one of the most

of just

with a 300 BLK cartridge. The powder burn is

versatile calibers

$699 and

expended in only 9 inches of barrel. A longer

in existence. I tested

Japanese-

barrel than that only gives a negligible amount of bullet velocity and added accuracy. This is why the Rainier Arms 10.5-inch Ultramatch MOD2 300 BLK is the perfect

the Rainier Munitions

made

125-grain round using a Primary Weapons

precision

System CQB Linear Brake as well as a

glass, this

SilencerCo Omega suppressor.

second-focalplane optic was

barrel for my needs. Not only is it a thing of

Both performed exceptionally well, with a

beauty with its satin flutes, titanium nitride

hat tip to the PWS brake for making this gun

astounding for

extension, and precision-cut target crown,

one of the smoothest-shooting unsuppressed

its optical clarity, no parallax movement at

the barrel also comes with a .800 diameter

pistols I have ever built. While a traditional

100 yards, and generous 3.5 inches of eye

gas block and pistol-length gas tube. An

muzzle brake would have been acceptable,

relief. The reticle is incredibly clean, with a

adjustable gas system upgrade is available for

I generally don’t like to put them on short

clearly defined 1/4 Mil-Dot dot and 1 Mil-Rad

added tenability.

builds in order to keep muzzle flash and

graduations. Aside from the odd color, they

concussion to a minimum. Going with a linear

really knocked it out of the park with this one,

caliber. With ammo options ranging from

brake nearly eliminates all the problems

especially considering it’s a first run. I also

208- to 220-grain subsonic (< 1,050 FPS),

associated with traditional brakes.

opted to use a ZRO Delta Optic Mount. Its

The 300 BLK truly shines as a suppressed

to 125-grain match (2,030 FPS), to 78-grain super light and fast bullets pushing near 2,800

01 03

Since it’s a newcomer on the block, I had to give the Mercon Optics 1-6x a try. With a retail

02 04

mounting surface area offers more points of contact to the rail than the majority of other

The Rainier Arms Avalanche MOD2 Charging Handle can be seen peeking out from underneath the rear Rainier Arms BUIS.

The Rainier Arms Ultramatch barrel features a titanium nitride extension and comes with a .800 diameter gas block.

The Bootleg Builders Inc. adjustable BCG can be tailored to the ammunition of your choice.

The Rainier Arms barrel also features satin flutes and a precision-cut target crown. UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

118

UN12 / Issue 005

UN12mag.com

119

UN12

E X P L O D E D VIEW

TracerX’s 300 BLK Pistol Specifications: Caliber: .300 BLK Length: 29.125 - 33 in. Barrel: Rainier Arms Ultramatch MOD2 300BLK Barrel Weight w/o Magazine: 9 lbs, 4 oz. with suppressor Upper & Lower Receivers: Ascend Armory AR-15 Lightweight Matched Billet Receiver Set

Featured Accessories: Optic: Mercon Optics 1-6x Optic Mount: ZRO Delta Optic Mount Handguard: Fortis Night Rail 10” M-LOK Brace: Maxim Defense Pistol Brace with JP PCC Captured Spring Magazine: USGI Suppressor: SilencerCo Omega Parts & Accessories: Bootleg Adjustable BCG, Rainier Arms BUIS, Arisaka M-LOK Finger Stop, Geiselle Super Dynamic Enhanced Trigger, PWS CQB Linear Brake, Blitzkrieg Front Sight Post, Tyrant Designs Mod Grip

optic mounts use. Hence, loss of

rounds to break the barrel in and

zero is impossible with repeated

let the gas block seat properly for consistent shots. But the groups

removal/reinstallation to the firearm.

slowly went from MOA down to

I admit—a bipod on a pistol or SBR

Rainier expertly matched their barrel and ammo so that the combination regularly shoots with sub-MOA accuracy.

might be a bit of overkill. Sub-MOA

holes touching each other, and often

and short barrels really never are said

multiple bullets passing through the

in the same sentence after all, let alone

same 3/8-inch ragged circle. Consider

concerning a 300 BLK gun. Most short-

my itch to gauge the accuracy on

barrel builds would look incredibly “Mall

this ammo and barrel combination

Ninja Tactical Overkill” by adding a bipod.

scratched.

However, this is one case where a small, lightweight

Rainier Arms/Rainier Munitions did an incredible job

bipod really was appropriate. The only one that I felt

pairing their top-tier Ultramatch Barrel with a perfectly

would fit the look of this build was the B&T industries

matched 300 BLK bullet. It’s not often I keep a gun

Atlas bipod with add-on spikes from Tactical Supply.

built up permanently. Like adult Legos, I build guns up

On my first outing I made the mistake of bringing the gun to a public range. It turned a lot of heads, not only

About the owner:

Social Media: @TracerXphoto

120

UN12 / Issue 005

favorite build to date. It has earned a permanent spot in

for its looks, but its accuracy, too. The pictures speak

my safe as my go-to 300 Blackout gun.

for themselves. Bear in mind that it did take about 50

[ UN12 ]

Name: TracerX Occupation: Photographer/ custom AR-15 builder

and tear them apart often, but this is hands-down my

UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

FEATURE

Customization

: : Based on a Benchmade 761 titanium monolock : : Personalized at home : : Titanium construction

Personalized Knife Text by DANNY CHANG Images by CHRIS LEE

ike many of us, Francisco Vergara

well-made knife struck a chord, and he

is a blade guy. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been carrying

was hooked. He now looks at knives in a

a knife for daily use for as long as he can remember, but heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only been collecting

UN12 / Issue 005

For many blade owners, a few knifemakers

them for a couple of years. For a long time

or designers stand out as particular favorites,

he viewed knives as hard-use tools that got

and for Vergara, Benchmade is one of them.

replaced only when blades were ill-suited

He snapped up the model 761 you see here

for sharpening, broken, or lost. His mindset

because, to his knowledge, it is the very first

changed when we went to a knife show.

frame-lock titanium folder the company had

At the show, he was quickly seduced by the

122

completely new way.

produced. Vergara is a fan of frame-lock

intricate work and impressive craftsmanship

folding knives, so the prospect of a non-Axis-

he saw at every booth. The beauty of a

lock Benchmade was exciting. For those who

UN12mag.com

123

Customization: Knives

03 The 761’s non-Axis-lock mechanism was what drew Vergara to the knife in the first place.

01 The varying thickness of the titanium gives the grip an iridescent, rainbow gradient color effect.

02 The pocket clip was repositioned to allow a tip-up carry orientation.

Specs Owner: Francisco Vergara Make: Benchmade Model: 761 Titanium Monolock Knife URL: benchmade.com

are not aware, most Benchmade folders feature the

“He created a wide, random-looking texture on the main flat that not only hides the damage, but also adds needed grip.”

company’s proprietary Axis lock.

Titanium Monolock

repositioned clip would reverse the carry orientation

random pattern on the opposite side could not be

to the desired tip-up configuration, something he was

duplicated. So the chamfers were finished to match

first few days of use, not being used to tip-down

much more used to. As with most beginners, he did

and the flat was orange peel finished.

deployment, he inadvertently dropped the knife on

not want to invest in a costly $50-and-up titanium tap;

With the major work done, Vergara went about

asphalt. The drop caused some damage to the scale

instead, he ended up snapping three standard taps at

giving his revamped 761 a new color. He felt that

of Vergara’s brand-new knife, which understandably

$10 each. (On the way he learned that if he was going

the scale could not be left in its natural color, which

dismayed him. He promptly shelved the blade in

to do this right, he ought to bite the bullet and buy the

he deemed “boring,” so he anodized it using the

disappointment.

pricier tap next time.) Once the new screw holes were

DIY kit purchased online. With the different textures

in place, he swapped the clip location.

and thicknesses of the titanium, the color took on

Some time later, Vergara became inspired by the many examples of customization work that he’d seen

an eye-catching, rainbow gradient effect. The 761’s

scale. With damage to both the main flat and the

hardware is made of stainless steel, so to match the

in the pages of UN12—so much so that he wanted to

chamfered edges on the presentation side of the knife,

new look the pocket clip was two-tone finished in

begin customizing one his own knives. He already had a

Vergara needed to take quite a bit of material off to

satin and bead blasted.

Craftsman one-inch belt sander at home, and he bought

hide the blemishes. Using his belt sander, he carefully

a DIY titanium anodizing kit online. All he needed now

worked the scale to remove material. He created a

merely a test mule. If this was Vergara’s first attempt

was a guinea pig to test out his customization skills.

wide, random-looking texture on the main flat that not

at customizing a knife, we’d love to see what he

only hides the damage but also adds needed grip.

comes up with when he gets a bit more experience

mule to practice on, he rediscovered the damaged

UN12 / Issue 005

The next modification was to address the damaged

performed on the internet, on social media, and even

As he was looking through his knives for a test

124

The pocket clip side could not be left untouched, but with the lock bar being so thin, the same wide,

could only be configured for tip-down carry. In the

At the time, Vergara did not notice that this knife

761

The first modification that he deemed absolutely necessary was to relocate the pocket clip. The

The scale’s chamfers were initially “orange peel”

Remember that the knife featured on these pages is

under his belt. If you have a knife you customized yourself

Benchmade 761 he had shelved awhile back. He

finished without removing the scratches, but that

decided he wanted to change the carry orientation

resulted in what looked like elephant skin texturing.

that you’d like to see featured in UN12, tag us on

from tip-down to tip-up and do something about the

So Vergara sanded the entire chamfer with rough-grit

Instagram @un12mag.

damaged scale in the process.

sandpaper to give it the unique texture it now wears.

[ UN12 ]

UN12mag.com

125

DEPT.

Competition & Training n the teachings of the martial arts,

things: size of the target, distance to the

there must be a close synchro-

target, and their own innate ability. These

nization between closing and opening

three factors must be deeply understood

distance and the various actions of the

and should be applied and reinforced in

hands and feet. The ability of a shooter to

every drill.

be effective at understanding speed

Shoot This Drill

A shooter must adjust his or her speed in

depends on his or her ability to understand

relation to distance, size, and ability. When

the threat and the environment surrounding it.

it comes to the first, I like to develop three

Each shooter must understand how

different types of speed. By understanding

to process three things when engaging

this, a shooter can quickly process a threat

a target (threat). They must deeply

and execute the proper movements to

understand their relationship to these three

neutralize that threat.

ABOUT TU LAM Lam is a retired Green Beret who spent 23 years serving in the U.S. Special Forces. Now founder and CEO of his own training and tactical gear

RONIN TACTICS WEAVER DRILL Text by TU LAM Illustrations by CHARLES LASKY

company, Ronin Tactics, he shares his experience with students from all walks of life. You may also recognize the edged-weapons master as co-host of The History Channel’s television show “Forged in Fire: Knife or Death.” You can learn more about Lam and Ronin Tactics by visiting his website at ronintactics.com.

126

UN12 / Issue 005

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127

Competition & Training 1

SET UP THE DRILL

cone while moving forward. (Note:

The Weaver Drill is set up using 6

Only one shot on target is required

Cone 6, moving laterally and shooting

cones and 3 silhouette targets. I like

throughout the course of fire.)

at Target 2. This will reinforce the

to use AR500 12x20-inch silhouette

Once the shooter moves to Cone 4,

practice of leading the target in

he then cuts left (like cutting through

relation to size and distance. On

will reinforce understanding of size,

a door in CQB). He must engage the

reaching Cone 6, the shooter will then

distance, and ability.

center steel target right side on a lateral

engage Target 3 from a static standing

move-and-shoot. The shooter must

position. To make this drill more difficult, I

engage the far right target from a static

understand how to lead a target on

standing position. He must hit Target 1

the move. This stage will also reinforce

tighten up the box. This will force the

from 30 meters before moving through

concept of size of target, as the target

shooter to move more quickly. You

the Weaver. The shooter will then

appears bigger at 15 meters.

can also conduct The Weaver with a

move and weave through the course

Once the shooter arrives at Cone 5,

15 METERS

pistol; again, simply shorten up the box to the target.

while engaging the far right target as he

he must shoot Target 3 while moving in

weaves in between the cones.

reverse around Cone 5. The shooter will

This first portion of the drill

then move to Cone 1; while conducting

extension of your body. If this is

reinforces the notion of slowing down

this diagonal movement he must turn

the case, then one must train the

on the long shots (reinforcing the

and engage Target 2 while continuing to

synchronization between closing and

concept of target size). As the shooter

move. On arriving at Cone 1 the shooter

opening distances and the various

moves through the Weaver, he must

must engage Target 1 from a standing

actions of the hands and feet in

engage Target 1 from each side of the

position.

relation to the weapon.

TYPES OF SPEEDS

needed to employ a weapon with

Processing Speed. Train to quickly

speed. In martial arts training, this is

process movement through the eyes.

called mushin (Japanese meaning,

This should be done by training on the

“no mind”). When training for

conscious and subconscious mind.

performance speed, one must train

In this process I would train with a

to a state of “No Mind”—when all

training partner. Place your partner

thoughts and emotions are eliminated

to the side and within a safe distance

and your training truly kicks in.

They say the weapon is just an

30 METERS

from yourself (the shooter). Have your

This drill (described above) is great

mind and peripheral vision.

for reinforcing the understanding of

THE WEAVER DRILL

speed in relation to the size of target,

Reinforces the understanding of speed in relation to target size, distance to the target, and the ability to perform on the move. Mastering the speed at which each target is engaged will help one succeed in this drill.

mind to develop a Course of Action

distance to target, and the ability to

(COA) based on the threat, situation,

perform on the move.

environment, and so on. Mental

[ UN12 ]

speed can be developed by training on different combat-based scenarios. Understand that experience has a lot

15 METERS

THE WEAVER DRILL—RONIN

movement using your subconscious

5 METERS

partner move an arm and pick up the

Mental Speed. Quickness of

The shooter will then move to

steel targets. These types of targets

The shooter will start at Cone 1 and

to do with the proper development of this type of speed. Performance Speed. Quickness in

movement to execute proper bodyto-weapons mechanics. To develop performance speed is to deeply understand proper fundamentals

6 1 X

128

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Finishing Point

Starting Point

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PRODUCT REVIEW

: : Allows multiple pistol setups with red-dot optics and suppressors : : Simple flip-up/down operation

t seems that nowadays every pistol has a red dot mounted to it. It’s a popular trend for sure,

and having an optic on your pistol certainly does have its merits. Red dots can help you acquire your target more quickly than iron sights, but what if for some reason the red dot becomes inoperable? Back to the old trusty iron sights it is. But now that a red dot sits on the slide, standard, low-axis iron sights are impeded by the optic’s base. The same problem exists when using a sound suppressor. Suppressors tend to be taller than standard-height pistol sights and inadvertently block their usage. Without having to install specific, extratall suppressor-height sights, what other options do you have? It is this predicament that lead us to look at SwitchSight folding iron sights. Created as a collaboration project between Dead Air Armament

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them back toward the rear and they rest confidently in place. We found that the sights stay in place under recoil without any problems, but making contact with them on a surface may fold them down, as there is no true locking feature. It would probably be a rare occurrence, but it is worth mentioning. They come with a standard three-dot aiming system, which isn’t fancy but gets the job done just fine. SwitchSight installs as simply as any other standard Glock sights. Fit and finish are top notch and so is fitment at both the front and rear of the slide. If you want the flexibility of running your pistol a number of different ways—suppressed, unsuppressed, with or without a red dot, all without the hassle of swapping out suppressor-height

designed so that you don’t find yourself stuck with

MOS red dot mounts, the folding sights are made

sights or living with higher-than-normal sights—

high-profile sights when you aren’t running a silencer

from alloy steel that’s been treated with a corrosion-

SwitchSight is definitely worth a look. If you’re

or red dot.

resistant black nitride finish. The sights feature two

particular about exactly how high your sights

sets of high-visibility, white-painted dots designed

are or what type of dot you use, or if you’re fine

to shoot to the same fixed point of aim.

sticking with a single pistol setup, this solution may

correct sight height for your pistol setup without having

Similar to the folding sights that you’d find on

not pertain to you. Regardless, with optics and

to change out the sights. Running a suppressor, flip

an AR-15, SwitchSight is deployed by a simple

suppressors being the hot accessories for pistols as

the sights up. Running a red dot, flip the sights up.

lift of the finger. The sights fold forward toward

of late, we think that this innovative set of sights may

Running both? Flip the sights up. Going without the

the muzzle end. Mechanisms on the sights give

signal more of what’s to come.

two add-ons? Flip the sights down. It’s that simple.

positive feedback on whether or not they have been

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: : For more on SwitchSight: Dead Air Armament/ KNS Precision SwitchSight Folding Glock Sights $195 deadairsilencers.com knsprecisioninc.com

UN12

Text & Images by MICHAEL GREY

is as simple a process as flipping them up. Just flip

for all standard Glock slides, including slides with

holster and optics and allows you to choose the

Folding Pistol Sights

Designed to be direct drop-in replacement sights

deployed correctly or not. Folding the sights down

and KNS Precision, these Glock-specific sights are

SwitchSight is designed to work with your current

SwitchSight

“SwitchSight is designed to work with your current holster and optics and allows you to choose the correct sight height for your pistol setup without having to change out the sights.”

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FEATURE

Customization

BoogeyMan Customs Text by JERRY TSAI

Images by JAY CANTER

“I

f you’ve seen one custom Glock, you’ve seen them all.”

pioneers in the field. Then there are the newer upstarts that

Although some haters might say that about the large

have risen above all the noise to stand on the shoulders of their

number of Glocks that now undoubtedly populate your IG feed,

competition. You can count BoogeyMan Customs as one of

as well as the shooting range—customized or otherwise—those

those shops.

who just can’t get enough of the popular line of pistols can

BoogeyMan Customs, a Glock slide modification and refinishing

by the truckload and are virtually indistinguishable from one

specialty shop located in Tucson, Arizona. Although Paroz officially

another, the same certainly cannot be said about one that has

launched BoogeyMan Customs in September 2017, he points

undergone customization work by its owner, or the owner’s

out that his company had been active prior to its official start date,

favorite customizer.

doing work behind the scenes for multiple companies as early

Glock customization is nothing new. It’s something that’s been done—in varying levels of intricacy (and creativity, for that matter)—for years now. In fact, this popular customization genre

same clients today. In order to start a pistol customization business, you might think that one would need a degree in CNC design or gunsmithing.

firearm world. What’s challenging for the artist/designer/engineer

Paroz informed us that isn’t necessarily the case. “I previously

who takes on such work is standing out from the crowd.

worked for a large national bank, roughly 10 years,” he says of his

the customization movement was just getting started; those who have survived this competitive arena tend to be the respected

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as April 2017, and that they are still doing work for many of those

is now probably one of the more crowded spaces in the custom

There are those who have made a name for themselves when

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Terry Paroz, a.k.a. The BoogeyMan, is the founder of

say just the opposite. While factory Glocks are churned out

background. “Prior to that, I was in the construction industry off and on for a number of years.” So just how did Paroz get BoogeyMan Customs off the ground?

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Customization: BoogeyMan Customs “I have always been a strong advocate of the

slide accessories such as iron sights, frame spacers,

says. “The same goes for full-blown CNC slide work

Second Amendment and have always taken an

titanium slide locks, and more.

packages.” Paroz offers many different original-

interest in metalworking. For as long as I can

On how BoogeyMan Customs stands apart from

design slide cut packages, but he says the perennial

remember, I would find myself watching YouTube

other customizers, Paroz surmises: “I think where

favorite is the one he launched his company with:

videos on lathe work, barrel threading, and

we may have gained popularity versus some of the

the Voodoo Slide, which includes angled front

chambering rifles and such.” That sounds like a lot

other companies out there, and why we have been

cocking serrations, lightening window cuts on the

of us; it’s easy to dive down the rabbit hole when

successful at what we do, lies in the design side

sides and top of the slide, the option of an optic cut,

watching metalworking videos on YouTube.

of the business. You can find a lot of designs out

and more. Aside from machine work, Paroz also offers

In fact, much of Paroz’s design and metalworking

there, especially in our price range, that don’t seem

experience comes from being self-taught. “I bought

to be entirely thought out or maybe just don’t nicely

Cerakote refinishing of slides and frames. If you’re

my first house, decided to build a shop on the

flow, so to speak.”

looking for a simple color-matched look or a

While BoogeyMan’s design and craftsmanship

battleworn camo, he can do it all. A gallery showing

back in 2015 with a small South Bend lathe,” he

are refined and have a decidedly upscale look, his

some popular colors and camouflage patterns can

says. “In 2017 I purchased my first small CNC

prices are surprisingly reasonable. With optic cuts

be viewed on the BoogeyMan Customs website.

mill and starting teaching myself the ins and outs

starting at $75 and more complex slide packages

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of CAD and CAM via Fusion 360.” Examining his

starting at $195, Paroz is not asking for your kid’s

custom creations and original parts, it’s clear to us

college tuition money if you want custom slide work

To check out examples of BoogeyMan

that he’s equally talented and passionate at what he

done. “If you look at our starting price range from

Customs’ work, follow Paroz on Instagram @

does. Aside from offering customization services,

an optic cut, we are running, in many instances,

boogeyman_customs and visit his website,

BoogeyMan Customs also has its own line of Glock

half of what our industry peers are charging,” he

boogeymancustoms.com.

property, and threw my hand at some lathe work

“While BoogeyMan’s design and craftsmanship are refined and have a decidedly upscale look, his prices are surprisingly reasonable.”

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BoogeyMan Customs

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Key Influencers

DEPT.

Oftentimes influencers are those who have a knack for picking up on trends long before most do. They tend to drive what’s “in” and influence die-hard enthusiasts and casual bystanders alike. The following featured influencers have built up a solid reputation for their expertise, style, knowledge, or opinions in the firearms world. Let’s take a look at what makes them so interesting.

PAUL GLASCO

LEGALLY ARMED AMERICA / @LEGALLYARMEDAMERICA / LEGALLYARMEDAMERICA.COM Paul works in his community by educating young people on firearms. He feels that early education is directly linked to reducing accidental shootings among youth, while also empowering them. As the father of a special needs son, he’s active in teaching safe gun storage for all homes with young

A few IG accounts that we found to be follow-worthy

people, either neuro-typical or those with special needs. He’s also active in fighting the made-up term “gun violence” and does research to identify true causes of violence today like bullying, overmedication, and instability at home. He’s invited members of the anti-gun movement to take part, but so far

@daviddodge3

@dylo2015

@madpigcustoms

@sal_gunz

@taleofknives

@koted_arms

@occustomcoating

@gregskazphotography

has received little participation. Name/Handle:

Paul Glasco/Legally Armed America Location:

Lake Charles, Louisiana Job:

Legally Armed America TV Show (FOX), Host/Producer Who:

I’m the most non-tactical, non-operating, non-superfly gun guy you’ll meet. I appeal to the average, everyday, blue-collar worker who owns guns to protect himself and his family. Trend:

I’m a big fan of pistol-

caliber, braced ARs due to their versatility and their improved control over a handgun for the novice homeowner looking to protect his family.

Favorite:

Lame:

9mm. Advances in selfdefense ammo and the vast choice of platforms that utilize it make it a sure go-to round for me.

I have a big problem with the “I surrender” attitude of the “I think bump stocks are stupid, so I don’t care if they ban them” crowd. I have never seen so many “gun guys” offer to give up so many Constitutional rights just because they lack any interest in that fight.

I am having a LOT of fun with the new Rock Island Armory VR80 12-gauge shotgun right now! Talk about versatile. Caliber:

Paper or Steel:

Steel. My eyes are too bad to see little holes in paper. Steel talks back. Last Purchase:

Oddly, a cheap Maverick 12-gauge shotgun for a video

we’re working on comparing barrel length to shot spread. We’ll be cutting the barrel down with a hacksaw! (Shhhhhh...)

INSTA-05

Style:

Any Cerakote/finish work by BlownDeadline, KM3, Madpig Customs, or Dark Alliance. Those guys are killing it! Why:

Our videos are segments pulled directly from our FOX show. I love history, so I try to make our segments interesting and informative. And again, we appeal to most folks out there.

ALEX ZEDRA @alex_zedra Alex Zedra’s tagline—“Guns. Games. Gains.”— sums up what she’s all about. Alex is an all-American 2A gunslinger, Twitch partner, FPS gamer, and 1st Phorm Elite Athlete. When she isn’t at the range obliterating targets, she’s live-streaming her gaming exploits on her Twitch channel. She’s also an avid athlete who works hard in the weight room. Follow her on multiple

Popular IG tags to follow:

outlets including Instagram, Twitch, Twitter, Facebook, and more.

Name/Handle:

Alex Zedra / @alex_zedra Location:

Texas Job:

I use to bake cupcakes, but now I broadcast video games/ gameplay. Who:

I’m a southern born and raised 136

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girl who grew up hunting, fishing, and playing video games as a kid. I guess you could say I never grew up.

Trend:

Military technology. It’s become so mainstream in the civilian market, it’s great! Thermals, drones, night vision… all that cool stuff. Lame:

Pistols that break down and fold.

Favorite:

My VP9! Salient Arms did amazing 1 for 1 custom work on it. I also had Lazy Wolf drop their trigger in it… so beautiful and runs like a champ. Caliber:

.38 if I carry. Otherwise .223 ‘cause I’m cheap! Paper or Steel:

Can I say both? I love the direct feedback from steel, but paper

allows me to focus on shot groups.

#guns

Last Purchase:

A Nightforce optic for my SCAR 20S.

#pewpew

Style:

Win glory for yourself and your collection and gain

Silicon carbide grips.

#weaponsdaily

hoards of IG followers. Tag

Why:

#moralepatch

if you’d like a chance for your

#igmilitia

future issue of UN12.

Because my account has everything from guns, to video games, to random corny/funny videos.

@rogue_gunn_works

us with the hashtag #un12ig IG account to be featured in a

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137

RETAIL DIRECTORY UN12 is a specialty magazine that is printed in limited quantities and is not available everywhere. Find your copy at these select retailers before it sells out.

Evike 2801 W. Mission Rd. Alhambra, CA 91803 Tel: (626) 407-0561 URL: evike.com

2A Tactical 99 Tolend Road Barrington, NH 03825 Tel: (978) 833-1215 URL: 2atacticalnh.com

Grey Ghost Gear 2916th 107th St. South Lakewood, WA 98499 Tel: (253) 984-7854 URL: greyghostgear.com

Evike 1400 W. 4th St. #2 Anitoch, CA 94509 Tel: (925) 237-2560 URL: evike.com

Kings River Coatings 2491 Avenue 400 Kingsburg, CA 93631 Tel: (559) 246-6426 URL: yooying.com/kingsrivercoatings OC Armory 23012 Del Lago Dr., Suite B Laguna Hills, CA 92653 Tel: (949) 768-5189 URL: ocarmory.com Rifle Gear 18065 Mount Shay St. Fountain Valley, CA 92708 Tel: (949) 209-6413 URL: riflegear.com Tactical Pro Shop 3503 W. Burbank Blvd. Burbank, CA 91505 Tel: (818) 468-7837 URL: tacticalproshop.com

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Iron Sights Weaponary Woodland Trace Ct. Sorrento, LA 70778 Tel: (833) 476-6486 URL: ironsightsweaponry.com

NV New Frontier Armory 150 E. Centennial Pkwy, Suite #110 N. Las Vegas, NV 89084 Tel: (702) 479-1470 URL: newfrontierarmory.com

TX Custom Defense Firearms 1911 E. Rancier Ave. Killeen, TX 76541 Tel: (408) 597-4867 URL: customdefensefirearms.com

Evike 100 Cypresswood Dr. #1302 Spring, TX 77388 Tel: (281) 771-3126 URL: evike.com

Danger Close Armament 6801 S. Emporia St #102 Greenwood Village, CO 80112 Tel: (720) 638-6572 URL: dangerclosearmament.com

Rifle Gear 6101 Windhaven Pkwy, Suite 145 Plano, TX 75093 Tel: (972) 292-7678 URL: riflegear.com

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NW Safe Company 830 Cole St. Enumclaw, WA 98022 Tel: (360) 825-5953 URL: nwsafe.com

Pantel Tactical 16926 116th Ave SE Renton, WA 98058 Tel: (425) 282-4186 URL: panteltactical.com Rainier Arms 2504 Auburn Way N Auburn, WA 98002 Tel: (253) 218-2999 URL: rainierarms.com Rehv Arms 27623 Covington Way SE #2 Covington, WA 98042 Tel: (253) 630-5900 URL: rehvarms.com

INTERNATIONAL RETAILERS

CANADA Canadian Tactical Cowboy Supplies URL: ctcsupplies.ca

BELGIUM DTS-Armory Tel: +31475202153 URL: dts-armory.com

NETHERLANDS DTS-Armory Tel: +31475202153 URL: dts-armory.com

THAILAND Thailand Tactical Mind / PP Tactics 135 Prachanaruemit, Pracharat Sai1 Rd Bangsue Bangkok, 10800 Tel: (+66) 81-889-7855 URL: tacticalmind.co.th

Wadeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eastside Guns 13570 Bel-Red Rd. Bellevue, WA 98005 Tel: (425) 649-5995 URL: wadesguns.com

ONLINE RETAILERS evike.com rainerarms.com UN12mag.com weaponoutfitters.com

If you are a retailer that would like to carry UN12 in your store, contact us at: retailer@un12mag.com

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