UN12 - 010 Magazine

U.S. $14.95

Featured Material

• Battle Arms Development T-34 Tanker AK • Fire 4 Effect CZ Shadow 2 • Helmet Gear & Set-Ups • Thermal Imaging Suppressed 6.5 Creedmoor AR • Night Vision Device Guide

Included

UN12 x Strike Industries Patch

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

Feature Firearm

5.7 AR Conversion

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:

Kit

CMMG

Mk57 ISSUE

UN12mag.com

010

HISTORY IN THE MAKING SEE BETTER.

Table of Contents

HEAR BETTER. SHOOT BETTER. MODEL 334 1985 For more than 40 years, SureFire innovation has delivered cutting-edge solutions to high-stakes problems. Shoot, move, communicate are the core tenants of gunfighting, and our products greatly enhance your ability to accomplish that mission. The new Scout SUREFIRE SETS THE BAR. Light ® Pro direct-mounts to M-LOK or Picatinny rails and rotates to significantly reduce overall weapon profile. SOCOM suppressors won the most extensive suppressor trial ever conducted and have an impeccable combat record worldwide. SureFire handheld and weapon-mounted lights are the gold standard in tactical illumination, and EarPro ® Sonic Defenders redefine what’s possible in hearing protection.

110

UN12 Issue 010

CMMG Mk57 Firearm Feature

X300 2019

SETTING THE BAR. AGAIN.

32

64

106

SiOnxy Aurora Black Product Spotlight

Helmet Gear & Setups General Feature

B&T APC223 Product Spotlight

34

76

120

BattleArms T-34 Tanker AK Firearm Feature

Black Rifle Coffee Co. F-150 General Feature

JTACtical TQ Pouches Product Review

44

82

124

Elftmann Tactical Company Profile

Thermal Imaging Suppressed 6.5 Creedmoor AR Firearm Feature

Torrent Orthrus .45 Product Review

50 Blac-Rac 1070 Weapon Retention Mount Product Review

54 Fire 4 Effect CZ Shadow 2 Firearm Feature

04

UN12 / Issue 010

92 Night Vision & Thermal Devices Buyer’s Guide

98 Shooter Maturity General Feature

128 Personalized Knife Customization Feature

136 Accu-Tac PC-5 Product Spotlight

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 are the opinions of its author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of UN12.

THE STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE. In 1985 SureFire pioneered the pistol-mounted WeaponLight. Today the X300U is still the gold standard when your life is on the line. Our best-selling WeaponLight delivers 1,000 lumens of TIR lens-focused light for positive threat identification and features ambidextrous switching for intuitive activation. Light, rugged and engineered to win the fight, it is trusted by law enforcement and military personnel around the world. Anything else is on the wrong side of history.

SUREFIRE.COM

SUREFIRE.COM

“FORTUNE FAVORS THE PREPARED MIND.” - Louis Pasteur

22 Every Day Carry

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

Dept.

8

137

Editor’s Letter

Guns of Instagram

30

12 New Products

132

18

DISCOUNT CODE:

Morale Patch

UN1220

20$ off any order of $150.00

30 Called Out

132 Shoot This Drill

06

UN12 / Issue 010

WWW.TNVC.COM

© Copyright 2020, TNVC, All Rights Reserved

010

DEPT.

Editor’s Letter

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

—

I

t’s safe to say that we are living in unprecedented

and accessories, but in examining the people behind

Publisher

times. It’s also fair to say that the firearms world

them, too. We pay a visit to Elftmann Tactical to learn

Howard C Lim

has never been more important and relevant. As gun

more about the company’s story. We also learn about

sales and ownership skyrocket, so does our interest in

the tenets of shooter maturity from pro trainer Jon

customizing and modifying them to fit our requirements.

Durfresne. Our gear expert, Charles “Chip” Lasky,

To that end, UN12 is a magazine that examines and

revisits a topic covered in UN12’s first issue and drops

celebrates the creativity of the

some invaluable and

firearms world. Along with

updated knowledge on

fellow enthusiasts and

helmet gear and setups.

creators alike, we enjoy

This print issue’s

Editors The UN12 Creative Team

Associate Editor Danny Chang

Technical Editor Michael Penhall

looking at the artistry of

collectible morale

customized firearms and

patch was produced in

Creative Direction

related gear.

collaboration between

James Ho, Jerry Tsai

Join us as we get behind

UN12 and Strike

the controls of a wide

Industries. The PVC patch

Art Director

variety of modified firearms,

displays many of Strike

James Ho

including a dedicated

Industries’ latest products

night vision precision rifle

for AR-15, some of which

that’s chambered in 6.5

aren’t even out yet. We

Creedmoor. We also take a

hope you enjoy it. The

look at a CZ Shadow 2 that has been customized for USPSA competition use by the experts at Fire 4 Effect Weapon Systems. We also examine an unusual suspect from AR specialists Battle Arms Development. Their AK-based T-34 Tanker is a real head-turner and we get to see it up close.

Other firearms covered in these pages include an AR

“It’s safe to say

we are living in unprecedented times, and we feel the firearms world has never been more important or relevant.”

pistol that has been converted

limited-production patch will not be reissued so be sure to hold on to yours— or, if you trade it, make sure you get something good for it.

As always, we’re looking for innovators and custom guns and knives to feature.

If you have a firearm or

Martin Anders, Jay Canter, Raquel Dotani, Michael Grey, Charles Lasky, Greg Schauble, John Scott, Lauren Short, David Thorson, TracerX, Chris Tran, Roland Wilkes, James York

Special Thanks Aristotle Bartolome, John Hwang, Bryan Robaina, Jeff Lai, Che Chon, OC Armory

Copy Editor Frank Stroud

Advertising Sales George Nogal george@un12mag.com

other piece of gear that you have customized,

Ad Coordinator

we want to know about

Frank Stroud

it. Tag us @un12mag on

to 5.7x28mm caliber thanks to CMMG’s Mk57 upper kit,

Instagram if you have something that UN12 readers

as well as Magpul’s spin on H&K’s MP5/HK94 and its

would like to see. Let’s continue to build UN12 together.

clones. Can Magpul teach this old dog new tricks? Find

Let us know what you think we got right or could do

out in our new department, Called Out.

better in this issue on our Facebook page at: /un12mag.

UN12’s celebration of creativity lies not only in guns

Contributors

—The UN12 Creative Team

Printed in the USA 010-2020

08

UN12 / Issue 010

AEROPRECISIONUSA.COM

DEPT.

Vortex Optics RAZOR HD GEN III 1-10x24 FFP

New Products

Military, law enforcement, and competition shooters alike will love the clarity of the Razor HD Gen III 1-10x24’s HD optical system and a true 1x on the low end. Daylight bright illumination is for reliable performance in all conditions. $2,900 vortexoptics.com

SIG Sauer Electro-Optics Echo3 Thermal Reflex Sight

TangoDown SSM-01 ACRO Mount

The Echo3 is a direct-view thermal sight utilizing SIG Sauer BDX technology, with the capability to capture images and record video in eight different color palettes.

It allows the shooter to sit back and view the thermal display, and when targets are identified the BDX reticle technology allows for exact aiming solutions in real time.

The compact, thermal-reflex-style sight is available in 1-6x or 2-12x magnification versions.

The TangoDown SSM-01 mount is the perfect choice for installing the ACRO on your SIG 320 (DP cut) pistol slide. It’s precision-machined from ordnance-grade steel, heat-treated, and given a tough, durable black oxide finish for years of rust-free duty.

All mounting fasteners included.

From $3,900

tangodown.com

for SIG 320 (DP Slide Cut) Models

$60

sigsauer.com

Benchmade 8551BK Mediator The new 8551BK Mediator is Benchmade’s latest push-button automatic tactical knife. With milled, chevron-pattern G10 handles and a CPM-S90V reverse tanto blade, the Mediator is a sleek switchblade with lightning-fast action. Made in USA. $295 benchmade.com

Wiley X WX Breach The WX Breach features a high wrap design intended to provide an unobstructed view while blocking out peripheral light. It comes with a removable facial cavity seal intended to keep out wind, dust, and debris. Available side vents can be opened to prevent fogging. The WX Breach is Rx ready and comes in four different color and lens combinations. $110 wileyx.com

CMC SOCOM Profile Barrel, 7.5” .223 Wylde Understanding that AR owners do not want their SBR or AR pistol barrel to be too light or too heavy, CMC Barrels has developed the CMC SOCOM Profile Barrel. This 1:7 twist, 7.5-inch-long barrel is made of 4150 chrome-moly vanadium and is coated in H&M Blacknitride+ for increased wear resistance. With a pistol-length gas system and M4 feed ramps for reliability, the barrel is finished with an 11-degree match crown for improved accuracy, and a bottom dimple allows for easy installation and alignment of the gas block. $180 cmctriggers.com

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UN12 / Issue 010

UN12mag.com

13

DEPT.

Pelican P1075 Hardback Pistol Case

Creative XP GlassEagle HD Red Dot Sight

For those of us who like to go incognito when transporting our pistols, there’s Pelican’s thin, laptop-looking pistol case. It not only lives up to its protective reputation as a Pelican product, but blends in well with your other gear because Pelican also offers a variant of this same case designed specifically for a laptop. So who’s to say one is carrying a computer and the other a pistol? The lockable case is designed to accommodate both pistol and a couple spare magazines.

Creative XP’s shockproof GlassEagle HD Red Dot Sight features a crisp and clear 3 MOA dot and has been tested for 1,000 rounds on an AR-15 rifle, 12-gauge shotgun, and Glock 19 pistol without losing zero. Its unique design makes it quick and easy to zero, and unlike other reflex sights its battery can be easily replaced without having to remove the red dot.

$65

$168 creative-xp.com

pelican.com

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Grey Man Tactical Seatback RMP Grey Man Tactical’s Seatback RMP (Rigid MOLLE Panel) is an ecosystem of rigid organizational MOLLE panels that attach to your vehicle’s seat back. The modular system is based on a MOLLE panel foundation that has a wide variety of attachments available, including locking rifle rack, a Picatinny rail mount, rubber clamps, and more. Of course, it takes all manner of MOLLE accessories as well.

From $190 greymantactical.com

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UN12 / Issue 010

DEPT.

Pitbull Tactical Universal Mag Carrier Gen 2

It’s the little things that mean the most™.

Looking for a one-shot solution for your mag-carrying needs? Look no further.

Pitbull Tactical’s Universal Mag Carrier fits any pistol magazine from a singlestack 9mm to a .45 double-stack while maintaining a low profile. No screws or adjustments are necessary. When a magazine is drawn it reverts back to its thinnest profile, keeping it out of the way when not in use.

Introducing the new Spek™ red dot and Flik5™ magnifier by American Defense Mfg. Sold individually or together as a Dual Use Optic (DUO™), the 3.7 inch Flik5 is an extremely short and ambidextrous 5X fixed power magnifier with generous eye relief, capable of quick transitioning from 1X to 5X, and adaptable with all red dot and holographic sight heights. The 2MOA Spek micro red dot is powered by (1) AAA lithium battery, includes push-button brightness adjustments and offered in low, co-witness, and lower-third co-witness mounts in either aluminum or full titanium.

ADM is Intentionally Superior.

$25 each pitbulltactical.com

BlackPoint VTAC IWB

Filson Travel Pack

The VTAC IWB holster is the first product resulting from a collaboration between Viking Tactics and BlackPoint Tactical. Viking Tactics founder Kyle Lamb wanted to see a new appendix holster design and the VTAC IWB is the result. It offers users an adaptable platform designed for appendix carry, which can also be utilized strong-side. This holster is available for five pistol models including SIG P320, Glock 19, S&W Shield, and more. UN12 readers get 10% off and free shipping when using coupon code “UN12” at check out.

Built with an extremely tough 100D Cordura nylon, Filson’s new Travel Pack is designed to stow your essentials throughout a lifetime of heavy use. The pack features a rugged twill-reinforced bottom panel and is fully nylon-lined.

Its exterior and interior incorporate stow pockets, and a nylon-webbing grab handle on its exterior make it easy to manipulate. $55 filson.com

duo

DUal use optic

Spek MSRP starts at $369 Flik3 MSRP starts at $369 Flik5 MSRP starts at $475 DUO MSRP starts at $685

$110 blackpointtactical.com

For dealer inquiries, email dealers@admmfg.com 16

UN12 / Issue 010

www.admmfg.com

DEPT.

Patch-10

UN12 x Strike Industries Text by JAMES YORK Images Courtesy of STRIKE INDUSTRIES

W

hen’s the last time you got a morale

Undaunted by a competitive and

patch with your magazine? If you’re

crowded field, Strike Industries has

saying not since your last issue of UN12

quickly made a name for itself in the

arrived, then we thank you. If you said

aftermarket firearms world. They focus

never, then we suggest picking up a print

on making parts that look cutting-edge-

issue of UN12.

cool but are also designed to enhance the

Each print issue of UN12 comes with an exclusive morale patch designed with our readers in mind. Thanks to our partners,

A couple of the forthcoming Strike Industries parts depicted on this morale

collectible morale patches with each

patch include the company’s new

new issue. Some of our back issues with

33-round magazine and Scouter red

their included collectible patches are still

dot and iron sights. The Scouter optic is

available; grab some before they run out.

Strike Industries’ first-ever red dot, and

space. It’s educational, can be physically demanding, and is almost always fun. One

it’s reportedly due to be released before the end of the year.

The Strike Industries 33-round AR-15

fun aspect is collecting all the fantastic

magazine is scheduled to be released

morale patches that are out there. They

even earlier. Dimensionally similar to a

can be funny, clever, and/or artistic.

standard 30-round mag, this 33-rounder

For this issue we teamed up with Strike

UN12 / Issue 010

best of both worlds.

we are able to include one-of-a-kind,

Like you, we enjoy living in the gun

18

AR’s function—essentially providing the

is designed to give you a few more rounds

Industries to bring you a morale patch

to throw downrange. We’ll be keeping our

of an AR-15 SBR that is equipped with a

eyes open for that exciting release as well

host of new parts, including some Strike

and will be sure to keep you updated with

Industries prototypes that are yet to be

any further information.

released.

[ UN12 ]

UN12mag.com

19

Every Day Carry

Every Day Carry / 21

06

01 Wazoo Cache Belt MSRP: $45

01

URL: wazoosurvivalgear.com

05

02

02 SureFire Defender Ultra Flashlight MSRP: $199 URL: surefire.com

03

03

Armatus Salvos Survival Tin Carry System Text by GREG SCHAUBLE & UN12 STAFF

MSRP: $35-$48

Images by GREG SCHAUBLE

I

URL: armatuscarry.com

t’s fair to say that we are

04

living in uncertain times.

When social instability exists, the potential for personal

Handleitgrips (Glock 27 Gen 3) Textured Rubber Gun Grip Kit

danger tends to rise. To

MSRP: $17

mitigate any trouble that may

URL: handleitgrips.com

come and find you, carrying a defensive-minded EDC setup

05

is a good idea.

Depending on where you

TOPS Knives Street Scalpel II

live or where you travel, items

MSRP: $130

in your EDC will probably vary.

URL: topsknives.com

A reliable defensive weapon such as a pistol or blade is

07

06

given. How about the other items in your loadout? What other items do you choose to

Trayvax Element Wallet

carry on the daily?

MSRP: $70 URL: trayvax.com

In this installment of Every Day Carry, we study two different EDCs, both assembled with a defensive

07

mindset, but each one

Leatherman FREE P2 Multi-tool

curated differently. Do you

MSRP: $120

see any items that you’d add to your current EDC?

URL: leatherman.com

04

08

08 Samsung Galaxy S8 Active URL: samsung.com

22

UN12 / Issue 010

UN12mag.com

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21

Premium EDC Items SureFire Defender Ultra Flashlight

24

Leatherman FREE P2 Multi-Tool

Armatus Salvos Survival Tin Carry System

MSRP: $199 URL: surefire.com Our 2¢: Machined from aerospace aluminum and featuring a crenellated strike bezel, the SureFire Defender is far from your ordinary flashlight. With 1,000 lumens it’s plenty bright for any application, and the bolstered dualfunction pocket clip makes both bezel-up or bezel-down carry an option. The Defender features a Type III Mil-Spec hard-anodized coating for abrasion and corrosion resistance.

MSRP $120 URL: leatherman.com Our 2¢: A quality multi-tool is essential to any good EDC loadout, and the FREE P2 from Leatherman is loaded with features that make it a top contender. All 19 tools can be easily accessed with one hand and lock into place.

The FREE P2 is constructed of 420HC stainless steel, is proudly made in Portland, Oregon, and is backed by Leatherman’s 25-year warranty.

MSRP: $35-$48 URL: armatuscarry.com Our 2¢: Small tins have been popular with the EDC community for years. Here’s a convenient way to carry them besides your pocket. The Salvos is a rugged, fully modular way to tote important EDC gear. It comes with two Mil-Spec soft-loops that will securely hold your tin in place while simultaneously attaching to your belt or favorite MOLLE pack. It is also fully compatible with most aftermarket attachments, such as Tek-Lok and MALICE clips.

Trayvax Element Wallet

Wazoo Cache Belt

TOPS Knives Street Scalpel II

MSRP: $70 URL: trayvax.com Our 2¢: With unique features like a built-in bottle opener, money clip, attachment points, and RFID protection, the Element is not your ordinary wallet. Slim enough for front-pocket carry and constructed out of tough stainless-steel plate and top-grain, oil-tanned leather, it’s built to last a lifetime. Backed by the Trayvax 65-year heirloom warranty.

MSRP: $45.00 URL: wazoosurvivalgear.com Our 2¢: The cache belt from Wazoo Survival is designed to discreetly carry cash, documents, survival tools, or whatever else you want in an easy-to-access yet highly secure fashion. The top access pocket allows direct access to items while the belt is worn and securely closes with a hookand-loop interface. The cache belt is available in black, coyote brown, and MultiCam.

MSRP: $130 URL: topsknives.com Our 2¢: The street scalpel from TOPS knives has an established reputation among LEOs, active-duty military, and everyday citizens for being a strong yet easily concealable knife. TOPS improved on the original by making the Street Scalpel II lighter, more ergonomic, and upgrading the sheath to allow for multiple carry options—IWB, OWB, Scout, and so on.

UN12 / Issue 010

DEPT.

Every Day Carry / 22

05

01

Eukarya Headlamp

Samsung Galaxy S10+ Smart Phone

05

MSRP $129 URL: eukarya.co

URL: samsung.com

06

07

02

Zero Tolerance 0223

SOG Power Assist Multi-Tool

MSRP: $375

MSRP: $100 URL: sogknives.com

URL: zt.kaiusaltd.com

06

07

03

ESEE Knives Gibson Pinch

Work Sharp Pocket Tool

MSRP: $77

MSRP $13

URL: eseeknives.com

URL: worksharptools.com

01

02

08

04

Titan Survival Keychain

Fenix LD02 Flashlight

MSRP: $27

MSRP: $30

URL: titansurvival.com

URL: fenixlighting.com

09

08

Armour Brass Edition Wallet MSRP: $80

09

URL: armoursupplyco.com

04 03

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22

Premium EDC Items Work Sharp Pocket Tool MSRP: $13 URL: worksharptools.com Our 2¢: The ultra-compact EDC micro-sharpener and knife tool from Work Sharp is so easy to carry there’s no reason not to. It features angle-guided, medium-grit diamond and fine ceramic rods to quickly restore a sharp edge to any blade. It also includes a ¼” bit driver with common Torx bit sizes—T6, T8, T10—to tighten pocket clips and pivot hinges.

Armour Brass Edition Wallet MSRP: $80 URL: armoursupplyco.com Our 2¢: This stylish wallet is made from genuine brushed brass and designed to prevent RFID theft. Despite its thin, minimalist design, it will hold up to 12 cards and 5 folded bills. It comes complete with a multi-tool card and key holder and is backed by Armour’s lifetime warranty.

28

UN12 / Issue 010

Fenix LD02 Flashlight

MSRP: $30 URL: fenixlighting.com Our 2¢: Small but mighty, the LD02 just about disappears in a pocket but remains ready whenever a light source is needed. It carries a 100-lumen max output and three brightness settings in a tiny 3-inch package that fits easily in a pocket or on a keychain. The LD02 is constructed of durable aircraft-grade aluminum and has a premium Type III hard-anodized antiabrasive finish.

SOG Power Assist Multi-Tool

MSRP: $100 URL: sogknives.com Our 2¢: Featuring one-handed assisted opening, the Power Assist MT is on the cutting edge of multi-tool technology. With 20 tools and SOG’s compound-leverage pliers, this is a tool ready to tackle any job. It comes with a durable nylon sheath and a magnetic ¼” bit driver. It’s offered in stonewash or black oxide finishes and is backed by SOG’s limited lifetime warranty.

Zero Tolerance 0223

Titan Survival Keychain

MSRP: $375 URL: zt.kaiusaltd.com Our 2¢: The ZT 0223 takes inspiration from a classic military knife and puts it into a modernday folder. It features a CPM 20CV blade with a DLC coating for excellent hardness and wear resistance. It has an extra-strong frame lock and ZT’s KVT ball-bearing system for smooth, reliable opening and closing. The pocket clip is left/right reversible with a black Teflon finish.

MSRP: $27 URL: titansurvival.com Our 2¢: Despite looking like a regular paracord keychain, the Survival Keychain is loaded with additional features. When unwoven, it’s a full 6 feet of Titan SurvivorCord with integrated strands of 25-lb fishing line, 20 AWG utility wire, and waterproof waxedjute fire tinder. The cord itself has a tensile strength of 620 pounds. A 1-inch ferrocerium rod is woven into the braid so you’ll always have a reliable source of fire.

Optic

DEPT.

Burris

Called Out

T

Model: FastFire 3

here’s little doubt that the Heckler & Koch MP5 is one of

MP5 original. We thought this clone would make a suitable

the most iconic modern-era subguns. Since its debut

candidate for seeing how Magpul’s new parts could transform

MSRP: $240

in the mid-1960s, it has spawned a long line of variants and

burrisoptics.com

copycat clones. Like the AR-15, the MP5 and its brethren are abundantly modifiable.

Popular firearm accessories maker Magpul has recently

Optic Mount HKParts.net

Stock

Model: Ultra Low Profile HK Red Dot Mount

HKParts.net Model: MP5 Retractable Stock - 4 Position

the old girl into the belle of the ball.

If you’ve ever worked on a clone firearm, you’ll know that installation of some parts doesn’t always go as smoothly as you’d wish. We were pleasantly surprised that all of the Magpul

added its own modern spin to this venerable platform with an

parts we fit to the CA94 went on without a hitch. We installed

extensive collection of MP5-compatible products. The list of

a Magpul SL Hand Guard - HK94/MP5, Magpul Enhanced

parts includes two types of handguards, a grip module, and an

Selector Kit (ESK), and Magpul SL Grip Module. The installation

ambidextrous safety lever, each designed to Magpul’s exacting

instructions were clear and each of the parts fit perfectly.

standards and distinctive style.

We tried out Magpul’s new wares on an old HK94 clone we

We completed the CA94 facelift with several items from other companies such as HK Parts.net for a totally new look with

MSRP: $95

rediscovered in our possession, a Cohaire Arms CA94. The

improved performance. Take a look at the callouts to see what

hkparts.net

HK94 is a 16-inch-barreled, semi-auto carbine version of the

upgrades we made.

MSRP: $400 hkparts.net

Barrel Shroud MFI Model: SOCOM Barrel Shroud for HK 94 MSRP: $125

MAGPUL MP5 CLONE

mfiap.com

Handguard Magpul Model: SL Hand Guard HK94/MP5

Text by JOHN SCOTT Images by MICHAEL GREY

MSRP: $50 magpul.com

Grip Module Magpul Model: SL Grip Module HK94/93/91 & Semi Shelf HK Clones MSRP: $60 magpul.com

Ambi Safety Magpul Model: ESK (Enhanced Selector Kit) MSRP: $50 magpul.com

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UN12 / Issue 010

UN12mag.com

31

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

01 DAY OR NIGHT Although it is a color night vision camera, the Aurora Black is suitable for day use as well.

02 CONTROLS The camera controls are intuitive and easy to use.

03

04

MULTIPLE MODES

COMPARISON

Capture color night vision photos or 720P video.

Above: A nighttime street scene taken on an iPhone 8.

Below: The exact same scene and lighting, but this time captured in color night vision by the Aurora Black.

Text & Images by JERRY TSAI

SiOnyx

Aurora Black – Color Night Vision Camera

SiOnyx Aurora Black

: : Near moonless starlight night vision : : Water resistant (IP67) : : Weapon rated - M4 223/5.56 (4,000 rounds) : : Firearm mountable utilizing a Picatinny rail mount

W

e’re living in a golden age of night vision optic

ultra-low-light CMOS image sensors and high-

development. These all-seeing units allow us

performance night vision camera systems. The

to see in the pitch dark of night, and hybrid thermal

company works with the U.S. Department of

models can even help us differentiate between the

Defense and has supported the U.S. government’s

body heat of an animal and the dense foliage it’s

defense and intelligence arms with advanced

hiding in. These optics are becoming smaller, with

imaging and camera technology.

better picture quality, increased functionality, and

: : Wirelessly stream to a smart device via the SiOnyx app MSRP: $699 URL: sionyx.com

modes thanks to a collar switch located just behind

video are recorded onto a 32GB microSD card that’s

wasn’t too bad but is worth noting. The lack of an

the lens. Focus is manually achieved via a movable

available separately.

eyecup is also worth pointing out for those planning

bezel that surrounds the lens.

The camera can be held in-hand or mounted to a

Due to its color night vision and image capturing

to use it on a helmet. We mounted the Aurora Black

capabilities and its relatively low price tag

in front of a variable-magnification rifle optic and

Picatinny rail interface. It is also threaded to accept

compared to dedicated night vision devices, we

found that it instantly upgraded our firearm into a

a tripod. While the picture is pretty darned sharp,

understand the temptation to use the Aurora as a

night-capable system, although it only worked at

SiOnyx’s line of commercially available and

vision camera that was made in response to market

we’d say a top-of-the-line Gen 3 PVS-14 might look

primary night vision device. While it is impressive,

the lowest 1x power setting. When adjusted for

award-winning night vision cameras developed

demand for a low-cost tactical night vision optic. It

sharper. What the Aurora does well is turn dark,

we view it more as a camera and secondary NV

stronger magnification, the picture wouldn’t focus.

specifically for the consumer is called Aurora. The

is designed for use in rugged conditions and can be

moonless nights into full-color scenes that look as

device. We’ll be bringing it on our next outing to use

Still, it made for an impressively easy upgrade for

optics. They allow you see in the dark but they

compact, lightweight, all-digital camera system

mounted to a rifle thanks to an included Picatinny

bright as day. It’s pretty amazing considering that it

as a camera and for navigation and identification

activities such as casual nighttime plinking.

usually don’t have recording capabilities. SiOnyx is

can perform in moonless starlit conditions, similar

rail mount.

takes pictures and video as well.

aid, but we’ll also keep our PVS-14s mounted to

All in all, we loved the time spent with the SiOnyx

out to change this with a line of night-vision-capable

to Gen 2 tactical night vision analog optics.

our helmets. That said, those who do want to use

Aurora Black. Being able to see in color at night has

cameras that not only let you take photos through

Aurora cameras are utilized by outdoorsmen,

it did feel like it had some added girth to it. It weighs

timed, and there are special modes like panoramic,

it as a primary unit would like to know that the

many advantages, and to be able to take photos

the optic, but also record video. On top of that, the

law enforcement, search and rescue, executive

about nine and a half ounces and is powered by a

bursts of up to 10 shots per second, and time lapse.

viewfinder’s picture can be inverted for helmet use,

and video really pushes the utility of this unit over

night vision picture can be displayed in full color.

protection, and mariners alike.

USB-rechargeable battery. The picture quality of

Video can be recorded up to 30 minutes or looped

and its battery life saving auto-shutoff feature can

the top. For its useful features, robust quality, and

the camera is excellent for an all-digital unit. The

to capture 30 seconds of footage when activated by

be disabled.

affordable price, it’s really hard seeing us not adding

with SiOnyx’s Aurora Black color night vision

viewfinder offers a video-camera-like experience

a trigger event such as pressing the unit’s shutter

camera. The Aurora Black is a color digital night

that’s switchable between day, twilight, and night

button or via shock, as through recoil. Photos and

lower prices than ever before.

That said, most of these optics are just that:

That means no more monochrome nights.

SiOnyx is a silicon-based photonics company that develops and manufactures proprietary

32

UN12 / Issue 010

We recently had a chance to spend some time

The unit is roughly the size of a PVS-14, although

Photos can be adjusted for shutter speed or self-

During our evaluation we noticed that there was a bit of a lag in both picture and video modes, which

one to our toolbox. [ UN12 ]

UN12mag.com

33

FEATURE

AK Pistol T-34 Tanker

Battle Arms Development / Rifle Dynamics

Text by ROLAND WILKES Images by ROBERTO FLORES

: : AK-47 pistol : : Collaboration between Battle Arms Development & Rifle Dynamics : : Chambered in 7.62x39mm

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UN12 / Issue 010

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35

FEATURE

A

couple years ago, in UN12’s inaugural Issue 001,

designs), Mikhail Kalashnikov was a tank mechanic and

the magazine’s cover story showcased a special

later a tank commander who served in World War II.

pair of AR-15 rifles—the Battle Arms Development (BAD,

Kalashnikov was embedded with a Soviet T-34 division,

BattleArms) “Paratrooper” and “Tanker” limited-run

the T-34 being one of the more influential pieces of

models. These two SBRs were in turn based on the one-

weaponry on the war’s Eastern Front that would influence

off “Woody” AR that BAD founder and principal George

tank design for years to come.

Huang, collaborating with Weapons Armament Research founder Anibal Salinas, put together for SHOT Show.

The original Woody was created to showcase BAD’s

When the T-34 Tanker concept began to take shape, Battle Arms Development was already well-known in the AR market, but less so when it came to an AK platform.

receivers, stocks, and other parts, but in short order, and

So the company teamed with an established player in the

understandably so, became a conversation piece in and

AK arena, Rifle Dynamics (RD), to help bring this project

of itself. This was in large part because it used custom-

to fruition.

built wood furniture and a carefully curated color scheme

The T-34 Tanker is built out from a Rifle Dynamics

to evoke the feel and nostalgia of a WWII-era service rifle

milled AK receiver from the company’s 704 pistol series. It

on the more modern Armalite design. As the Woody’s

hosts an 11.5-inch 4150CM barrel chambered for—what

popularity spread virally through social media, BAD

else?—7.62x39mm. The barrel features a 1:10 twist and

decided to offer a pair of low-volume production models

a ½”x28 TPI thread at the end, to which a BattleArms

for sale to discerning customers and collectors—hence

Thumper compensator is affixed.

the Paratrooper and Tanker.

The firearm pictured here, called the T-34 Tanker, is a sort of kindred spirit to those first two AR builds—but one that’s been applied to a completely different platform: the Kalashnikov AK. The T-34 designation is not merely incidental. Though he is best known as the inventor of the AK-47 and several of its successive variants (among many other small-arms

Like the receiver, the internal action components—

Sabertube receiver extension. The Sabertube is a product

including the recoil spring, bolt, bolt carrier, and gas rod

developed for an AR pistol platform that in this instance

assembly—as well as the receiver cover were supplied by

is adapted to the RD 704 AK receiver with a SIG folding

Rifle Dynamics from the 704 series. The trigger group is

block, which is in turn attached to the receiver via an

also from Rifle Dynamics. True to its throwback, minimalist

integrated milled steel rear trunnion with a Picatinny rail

nature, the T-34 Tanker is fitted with analog optics—an

adapter. The block also allows the extension assembly to

RD-spec post-and-drum in the forward position on the

fold around against the firearm’s body. A Gear Head Works

gas block and an RD Fuller V2 riding on the rear sight block. In between the two, an RD Ultimak Picatinny rail interface encloses the gas tube and lends the weapon a bit of attachment utility.

To keep the T-34 Tanker out of NFA jurisdiction and ensure the gun’s pistol classification, BAD outfitted it with a brace system centered around the company’s own

Extension

Finish

The proprietary Battle Arms Development Sabertube mediates between the folding stock adapter and the GHW pistol brace.

A custom KG Gunkote mix in Soviet-inspired military green is applied to both the T-34 Tanker and the two included 20-round magazines.

36

UN12 / Issue 010

UN12mag.com

37

FEATURE

Full Circle: MK, AK & T-34

Optics

“Similar to Battle Arms Development’s ‘Woody’ series ARs, what really gives the T-34 Tanker visual flavor and nostalgic appeal are the WWIIera coloration, wooden foregrip, and Bakelite pistol grip.”

Rifle Dynamics iron sights provide analog target acquisition.

Accents A Bulgarian wood foregrip and Bakelite “wood look” pistol grip enhance the AK’s vintage appeal.

Mikhail Kalashnikov was born in 1919 in Kurya, Russia. He and his family were among the peasants relocated under Stalin’s regime and they were sent to live in exile in a village on the Tailhook Mod 1 pistol brace is attached to the Sabertube

the U.S. Sherman tank, while the AK Tanker takes after the

southwestern Siberian plain. To help sustain the family his father

to complete the rear setup.

Russian T-34.”

was an active hunter, and the younger Kalashnikov became

One of the things that really gives this build flavor and

He goes on: “When we did the Tanker AK, we started

well versed in the practice and the tools that helped get it done.

nostalgic visual stimulus is the WWII-inspired finish.

with the same green concept for the base color but the

He showed an early aptitude for mechanical tinkering—and

George Huang explains: “Typically for that period the

shade on the AK is a bit different. We were trying for more

somewhat incongruously for writing poetry, which he continued

firearms are all steel and parkerized like the M1 Garand,

of a communist/Soviet green finish and we didn’t use any

to do throughout his life.

M1 Carbine… Over time you get the dark green patina,

Cosmoline-type colors.”

and of course everyone is familiar with the red/orange

BAD, an NIC certified applicator for both Cerakote

Kalashnikov eventually returned to Kurya where he found work as a tractor mechanic, and he was later conscripted into

color Cosmoline that usually covers that period of firearms

and KG Gunkote, formulated the scheme in-house.

the Red Army in 1938. He was assigned as a tank mechanic

for storage. Our unique mixture of the ‘Parkerized Green

It’s a special KG recipe that may also be applied to

serving on T-34s in the Soviet military’s 24th Tank Regiment,

Steel’ look and the coating of ‘Cosmoline’ residue is that

108th Tank Division.

WWII-themed look we went for. Our AR Tanker takes after

For its part, the T-34 was an extremely influential machine on the Eastern Front. Certain features, such as its 60-degree sloped armor and Christie suspension derived from the American M1928, enhanced its operational success. It was so effective in battle that after encountering it some German commanders openly acknowledged its superiority to their own hardware, one of them going so far as to call it “the finest tank in the world.”

Kalashnikov was seriously wounded in October 1941 and was hospitalized for the next several months. Legend has it that during his convalescence he was able to catalog his fellow soldiers’ criticisms of their existing weapons and became versed in their various flaws and shortcomings. Upon being discharged he set out to devise a superior design.

Kalashnikov’s first submachine rifle was rejected for official use, but it got him noticed as a designer. In 1944 he began work on a new design influenced by an M1 Garand. This evolved into an entry for a 1946 rifle design competition, which in turn

Brace A folding stock adapter allows the Gear Head Works Tailhook Mod 1 to fold flush with the gun’s left-hand side.

became the basis for a new family of weapons that culminated in the AK-47 (Avtomat Kalashnikova model 1947). The AK-47 was officially adopted as the Soviet Army’s standard-issue battle rifle in 1949, and Mikhail Kalashnikov’s legacy was crystallized in the annals of firearms lore.

Even today, it wouldn’t be much of a stretch to call the AK-47 and its progeny the most ubiquitous weapon system in the world. By one scholar’s reckoning, of an estimated 500 million firearms on the planet (itself probably a very conservative number), one-fifth of those are Kalashnikov variants, and three quarters of that fifth are AK-47s.

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UN12 / Issue 010

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39

INTRODUCING THE NEW

FEATURE

other firearms through the company’s custom shop if a

run of 50 examples through BattleArms’ exclusive

customer so desires. BAD also performed the laser brand

distributor, RSR Group. As of this writing, ten T-34 Tankers

engraving on the various T-34 Tanker components, like

have been assembled and shipped, with the balance of 40

the BAD circle logo on the receiver, the BattleArms script

to be issued in the coming months.

across the rear sight block, and the RD logo etched into the block’s opposite side.

Each T-34 Tanker ships with two 20-round steel magazines, also done up in the WWII green coating and

Along with the KG coating, the wood-colored accents are really what tie this AK build, visually and spiritually,

MAG-EX²

to BAD’s earlier AR Woody-inspired designs. The forend (or handguard if you prefer) is crafted from a block of Bulgarian wood. The pistol grip, while complementing the overall look, is not actually wood but Bakelite, a synthetic plastic compound that itself has a prominent place in WWII lore, being used in grips and buttstocks on different weapons of that era.

The pictured firearm is the BattleArms mockup that was designed for SHOT Show 2020, so there may be slight visual differences, as far as the paint stenciling and laser etching, in what you see here compared to a production T-34 Tanker. The production unit will be sold in a limited

Muzzle A BattleArms Thumper compensator is affixed to the end of the Rifle Dynamics 11.5-inch barrel.

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40

UN12 / Issue 010

FEATURE

emblazoned with a red star. The entire package

BAD T-34 Tanker AK Pistol

comes cased in a custom wood crate that is stenciled, like the firearm, with the BAD and RD logos and T-34 markings.

And just as the wood-furnished AR Woody led to the Paratrooper and Tanker ARs, the T-34 Tanker is also a harbinger of things to come for Battle Arms Development. According to George Huang, his company will be taking this opportunity to branch out to support the AK platform, and plans are in motion to offer customers everything from parts to complete firearms.

And so history repeats.

Specifications Caliber:7.62x39mm Overall Length: 31 3/8 in. (extended), 23 in. (folded) Weight Unloaded: 6.8 lbs Receiver: Rifle Dynamics 704 Pistol Series Barrel: Rifle Dynamics 11.5” 4150CM w/1:10 twist Coating: Custom KG Gunkote by Battle Arms Development

[ UN12 ]

Featured Accessories Trigger: RD-tuned TAPCO G2 group Optics: RD post & drum (forward), RD Fuller V2 (rear) Handguard: Bulgarian wood Muzzle Device: BattleArms Thumper compensator Brace: BattleArms Sabertube, Gear Head Works Tailhook Mod 1, SIG folding block

“The T-34 Tanker is a harbinger of things to come for Battle Arms Development, which is planning to branch out operations to support the AK platform with both parts and complete firearms.”

About the Builder Battle Arms Development UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

Social: Facebook @BattleArms, IG @battlearms URL: battlearmsdevelopment.com

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UN12 / Issue 010

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43

FEATURE

Company Profile

Elftmann Tactical Text by ROLAND WILKES

Images by JAY CANTER

I

t’s hard to believe that as of just last year the Armalite

ELF remains a tightly knit, family-run business. At its core are

design known today as AR-15 celebrated 60 years in

three generations of the Elftmann lineage. Art Elftmann Jr. is the

service. In that time, it has become the go-to platform for military

driving force behind the business, the idea man and the creative

tactical rifles, not to mention the de facto sporting rifle for firearms

genius behind the company’s innovative accessories. He is

enthusiasts the world over.

flanked by his father, Art Elftmann Sr., who assists in day-to-day

The sum of its parts isn’t perfect, but that’s one of its great

design and manufacturing with his engineering and technical

of its great inherent advantages, opening the door to a rush of

expertise.

innovation and experimentation, where every component has

UN12 / Issue 010

The final pieces of the Elftmann puzzle are our point men for this

been picked over, examined, reproduced, and re-engineered

article, Steve Watts and Jeff Taylor. Watts is the former marketing

exhaustively by select industry innovators.

director by title, but he and Taylor are men who have worn a

One such innovator is Elftmann Tactical—ELF Tactical for

44

operations, and Alex Elftmann, who rounds out the company’s

advantages. That modularity and relative simplicity are some

number of other hats, serving as product photographer, graphic

short—located in Phoenix, Arizona, which has applied its focus to

designer, dealer and distributor liaison, sales rep, and social media

the AR-15’s most important input mechanism: the fire control (or

administrator. Both are also early investors in the company who

trigger) group.

have been involved since almost Day One, when the operation

UN12mag.com

45

Profile: Elftmann Tactical took root in the Elftmann garage. Typical of men

engineered with end user and internal company

pre-installed together in an aluminum housing,

in their line of work, their one regret is that there

input to produce a more standard shoe. Some

making the entire trigger group a self-contained,

simply are not enough hours in the day.

truly innovative features were adapted to the

drop-in affair and greatly simplifying installation.

Art Elftmann Jr. could be best described as a Thomas Edison kindred spirit. He’s a gun enthusiast, but entertains a wide range of

fire control group, features which continue to be Elftmann triggers across the company’s

interests to keep his mind occupied. He is by

product range are probably best known for

most reports an unreformed and unapologetic

pivoting not solely on the standard steel

tinkerer. (Currently, he’s said to be working on a

pins that other trigger groups employ, but on

design for a new tattoo gun. Hey, still a gun.)

aircraft-grade, sealed needle bearings pressed

Somewhere around 2012, Elftmann’s first

“I compare our performance triggers versus a

developed and refined to this day.

into the trigger and hammer components,

standard trigger to a high-performance automobile Platforms: In addition to AR platforms, dropin triggers are offered for the Remington 700 and Savage 110 bolt guns.

like a Lamborghini versus something like a Chevy,” Watts says. To wit, the Chevy will get the job done, but the extra-tight tolerances in the Lambo enable the exotic to squeeze that much more performance out of the same physical space. Visit the ELF Tactical website to view high-resolution images of

product to the AR-15 market was known as

which in turn rotate on the pins. From an

some of the company’s high-performance triggers

the Dual Trigger (D-TR), a piece of engineering

engineering standpoint, says Steve Watts, just

and you’ll start to see what he means.

designed to reduce pull weight markedly by

about any kind of assembly that rotates around

extending the trigger bow itself beyond the

a fixed point rotates on bearings—especially in

range of a standard AR trigger guard and

high-end or high-performance applications, like

into real estate on the pistol grip normally

the drive gears or wheels on a car. In that light,

reserved for the shooter’s middle finger. While

the advantage offered by an ELF Tactical trigger

the engineering premise was sound, the

group seems obvious.

ergonomics were somewhat unconventional.

Soon afterward, the design was re-

What’s more, Elftmann was one of the first engineering firms to offer both components

It’s hard to say where the phrase “breaks like glass” originated, but according to those who have Drop-in: The trigger and hammer components are mated together and held in an aluminum housing.

used an Elftmann product, that’s exactly how it feels. “There are other triggers out there that feel pretty nice, but there just wasn’t any other that had the kind of feel ours does,” Watts says. “There’s absolutely zero takeup. When you pull the trigger you feel no movement until it breaks. It’s like a glass rod, it just snaps.” Plenty of customer testimonials all over the Internet that echo that sentiment.

Elftmann triggers are a favorite among competition gunners. The company supports competitors like Jeff Johnston, Craig Outzen, Kurt Grimes, and Ursula Williams. A good deal of their marketing efforts are accomplished on the PCC and 3-gun circuits, both in the heat of competition and by word of mouth.

A few other features that make Elftmann groups stand out include a robust trigger disconnect, about

“ELF triggers are best known for rotating on aircraft-grade sealed needle bearings pressed into the trigger and hammer.”

46

UN12 / Issue 010

Elftmann Tactical

UN12mag.com

47

Profile: Elftmann Tactical a quarter inch versus the standard one-eighth

for order through the company’s website. The

professional users like military or law enforcement,

to one-sixteenth. It roughly doubles “the meat”

new Match Pro trigger is an updated take on

or dedicated hunters who love to immerse

in a high-wear area, enabling long service life

the company’s popular Match trigger. It uses a

themselves in the hunt (literally speaking).

even under punishing use. It also contributes

proprietary threaded mounting system where

to the Elftmann drop-safe provision and

threaded pins actually screw into the pivot

consists of drop-in trigger groups for match use,

safeguards against unintentional double-firing.

points in lieu of standard pins. This ensures a

including 3-gun competition, and service use for

Most ELF triggers feature pull weights that

rock-solid mount that will not allow the trigger

are tunable by the end user (2.75 to 4 pounds

group to shift up, down, or side to side… not

in one of Elftmann’s match-grade units, for

to mention eliminating the possibility of a pin

example), and each trigger assembly is 100%

backing out under hard use.

made in the USA.

Currently, the Elftmann Tactical product line

AR-15, AR-10/.308, and PCC AR platforms like Engineering: Extremely tight tolerances are what imbue ELF triggers with their magic.

Next is a Pro Component set, which is

There is enough durability built into the

AR-9 and AR-45. The company has expanded for the coming year to include drop-in triggers for the Remington 700 and Savage 110 bolt-action rifles, as well as the Rock Island Armory VR80

essentially the match set shipped without

tactical shotgun. They also offer accessories like a

design, in fact, that ELF Tactical is one of the

the drop-in housing. The trigger and hammer

push-style speed safety for AR-15 and AR-10, non-

few companies to offer a bona-fide lifetime

assemblies mount using pressed-in shoulder

rotational anti-walk trigger pins, and a proprietary

warranty. Like the Sears Craftsman of old,

bushings that, like the screw-in pins on the

whatever happens with your trigger group,

Match Pro set, ensure a solid mount that

Elftmann will repair or replace it for as long as

offers no play during operation. The individual

you own it.

components, sans drop-in housing, also

Two notable product offerings are in the offing for the current year and already available

offer greater serviceability in case of contact with dirt, dust, or mud, so they are ideal for

Manufacturing: An impressive production space enables each ELF product to claim the title of 100% American made.

Ultralight aluminum buttstock. [ UN12 ]

----------------------------------------------------------For more information on Elftmann Tactical product, visit them at elftactical.com, or follow them on Facebook @Elftmann Tactical and Instagram @elftactical.

“There’s enough durability built into the design that ELF Tactical is one of the few companies to offer a true lifetime warranty.”

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48

UN12 / Issue 010

UN12mag.com

49

PRODUCT REVIEW

Blac-Rac 1070 Text by JOHN SCOTT Images courtesy of BLAC-RAC

W

“The Blac-Rac 1070 retention system is designed for modern tactical weapons and provides reliable security that can adjust to nearly all weapon types.”

hether we’re talking about a truck, car, SUV, motorcycle, ATV, or even a watercraft—

any vehicle, really—figuring out a secure and easy-to-use firearm storage solution for it can sometimes be a challenge.

If you’re a hunter or a law enforcement officer, you may require a fast-action mount that will allow you to grab your rifle at a moment’s notice. Even if you’re neither of those two, all firearm owners can use a mount that will keep their weapons safe from theft and unauthorized use. Different types of vehicles and differing operator needs present a variety of parameters, and there isn’t just one system that addresses them all. Or is there?

Rac mounting systems were only offered to the

company made the strategic decision to enable

created in 2004 in response to law enforcement

Blac-Rac Weapon Retention Systems was

military and law enforcement. In fact, Blac-

the public to achieve the same level of theft

professionals who wanted a better way to

Rac claims more than 70,000 units currently

protection as the official organizations.

secure and quickly deploy their firearms to and

serve all U.S. military branches, in addition

from their vehicles. The model 1070 mount is

to government agencies such as Border

secure and deploy without issue. We like the

designed for modern tactical weapons and

Patrol, Homeland Security, U.S. Customs, and

fact that the flexible design of the all-steel,

provides reliable security that adjusts to nearly

others, as well as military and law enforcement

powdercoated 1070 accommodates fully

all weapon types. The 1070 can be mounted

agencies in numerous foreign countries. For

accessorized weapons. There is no need to

using an array of methods to virtually any

us civilians to be able to own and use a proven

remove optics or magazines when your rifle

vehicle type thanks to the company’s robust

system such as the 1070 is fortunate.

is stowed and locked into place. AR owners

mount selection.

On one recent outing we had the opportunity

Blac-Rac’s decision to open up sales of

Our decked-out AR-15 was quick to

will be glad to know that the 1070 is designed

the 1070 to those outside military and law

to restrict access to takedown pins, trigger

to test a 1070 and found that it was as easy to

enforcement circles was based on a review of

groups, and magazine releases. For further

use and secure as they claim. Its materials and

statistics that showed the number of firearms

peace of mind, the 1070 also features vibration-

build quality are solid, so it’s not surprising that

stolen each year from private American

damping padded grip plates to prevent

it’s such a robust mount. Until recently, Blac-

citizens was unacceptable. It was then that the

movement or marring to a gun’s finish.

Weapon Retention System 50

UN12 / Issue 010

UN12mag.com

51

Product Review: Blac-Rac 1070 UN0012 / AERO PRECISION M4E1 BUILDER SET —

01 MOUNT The system base can be secured to a vehicle’s interior or surface inside your home or business.

02 The original model 1070 that we used comes

units in 2004. Shortly following Pintar’s creation

Additionally, the Blac-Rac system is not now

with an integral steel hasp that allowed us to use

of the first few, Tom Torres joined in to assist

just limited to vehicle use, since the company also

our own lock. Mounting and dismounting our

and further develop the product. After years of

offers T-mounts and freestanding mounts that

rifle was as simple as pulling a handle that allows

refinement and constant testing, the Blac-Rac

allow for the 1070 to be mounted to a wall or floor

the lock to swing open horizontally. There’s also

1070 is able to secure just about every type of

inside a building. The Blac-Rac 1070 mounting

a 1070 model that includes an integrated lock.

firearm, including tactical rifles, pistols, shotguns,

system’s many uses, its overall ease of use, and

Other construction options include a lightweight

bolt-action rifles, and others. The first units were

the security it provides make it the go-to mount for

aluminum-bodied version, as well as one that’s

manufactured in Boise, Idaho, and sent to major

your secure, quickly deployable firearm storage

outfitted with stainless hardware for marine and

law enforcement agencies in Washington State,

needs. Considering that the price recently dropped

outdoor applications.

Colorado, and California. Today, all 1070s are

from $399 to $249, which includes an integrated

still manufactured in the USA and carry a lifetime

military-grade lock, it’s also a great deal.

guarantee.

[ UN12 ]

Blac-Rac owner Kevin Pintar engineered, tested, and manufactured the first Blac-Rac model 1070

52

UN12 / Issue 010

GRIP PLATE Weapons are secured via a clamping device that features a patented, nonmarring “grip plate” design.

03 INTEGRATED LOCK An optional military-grade keyed lock can be supplied in place of the standard hasp.

: : For more info: Blac-Rac 1070 MSRP: $219; $249 w/military-grade lock URL: blac-rac.com

UN12mag.com

53

FEATURE

2

FIRE 4 EFFECT CARRY OPTICS LEGAL

CZ Shadow Text by ROLAND WILKES Images by JERRY TSAI

: : USPSA Carry Optics class build : : Based on a CZ Shadow 2 : : Chambered in 9mm Luger

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

54

UN12 / Issue 010

UN12mag.com

55

FEATURE

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

“Fire 4 Effect began as many great customizers do— with a single guy wishing to improve his own gear.”

stablished in

A relative upstart to the longer-established North

what is today

American presence of weaponmakers like Smith &

work have seen the operation snowball into a nationally

the Czech Republic, CZ, short

Wesson, Glock, or SIG—though certain discerning

recognized gunsmithing enterprise.

for Ceská Zbrojovka (which roughly

enthusiasts have sworn by them for years—CZ’s

translates to Czech Armory) has a longer history than

products have seen an uptick in popularity among

makes including Glock, Smith & Wesson M&P, and HK,

some domestic shooters may realize. In the beginning,

American competition shooters, although the brand

as well as long guns to include AR and AK variants,

more than one arms manufacturing operation fell under

retains a somewhat exotic mystique among the

high-end bolt guns, and shotguns. Generally speaking,

that moniker, the first of which was founded as far back

more ubiquitous offerings from other companies that

their work follows a pre-arranged pattern distilled

as 1936.

have enjoyed a presence in the Americas for several

to make the building and customization process as

decades now.

streamlined as possible. You can visit their website,

E

After the Second World War and Nazi occupation of then-Czechoslovakia, when CZ tooling and

56

Fire 4 Effect out of El Paso, Texas, has traced

manufacturing capabilities were commandeered to

a similar arc in its rise to prominence within the

service military weaponry, what would eventually

recreational and competition shooting communities.

become a privatized operation returned to making

Founded by Will Wingfield and his brother Matt circa

small arms for the sporting and hunting markets.

2010, it began as so many successful custom gun

Several decades later CZ-USA was established in

operations do—with a single guy, devoted to shooting,

Kansas City, in 1998, as the exclusive importer for

wishing to improve on his own gear, and deciding he’d

Ceská Zbrojovka.

be best served by doing it himself. Hours upon hours

UN12 / Issue 010

of daily devotion, trial, error, sweat, tears, and hard

To date, Fire 4 Effect has done work on many pistol

01 FINISH Durable black nitride is standard, but custom Cerakote may be applied at the customer’s request.

choose your gun type and/or manufacturer, and select from a menu of ready-to-execute mods.

Recently, Wingfield and Fire 4 Effect have gravitated to CZ pistols—specifically the Shadow 2. According to CZ-USA, the Shadow 2 was designed to improve on the SP-01 Shadow’s best features. It features a higher beavertail and undercut trigger guard that raise the shooter’s grip as close to the bore axis as possible.

01 UN12mag.com

57

FEATURE

A newly contoured slide was also designed to better center the pistol’s reciprocating mass to the bore, along UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

with enhanced weight distribution to keep the muzzle down and cut down on potential muzzle “flip.”

One of the things Wingfield most appreciates about the Shadow design is the trigger feel. As well, the platform was something quite different from what his company had worked on in the past. He explains: “We chose CZ because we wanted to serve the competition market and we’d been working on Glock and S&W quite

01

a bit. What we noticed [on those] was there was really only so much you could do with the trigger… strikerfired pistols are just inherently ‘spongey’ and lack the crispness that a true sear/hammer offers.”

Along with the CZ Shadow’s undeniably exotic flair compared to the more mundane competition, the CZ’s fire control hearkens more to that of the vaunted 1911, itself widely regarded as the measuring stick for a precise handheld shooting platform. Wingfield elaborates: “CZ offers pretty decent triggers right out of the box and a few custom parts could make them amazing. I’ll take them over a 1911 built by anyone, any day… [it’s] an awesome product a lot of shooters haven’t really explored.”

Once obtaining a new pistol, as was the case with this Shadow 2, Fire 4 Effect performs considerable work on the slide. The pistol pictured here is a typical Fire 4 Effect USPSA Carry Optics class piece built with the competitive shooter in mind, and as such has been built to perform in that arena of competition.

Although, as Wingfield testifies, “We have a number of recreational shooters running these guns as well.”

The following is a detailed rundown on the modification procedure from the man himself. “First, we lighten the slide with a number of cuts, creating side windows and a top window,” Wingfield says. “We lightened the slide initially because there was a weight limit on the USPSA Carry Optics class… We also

we’re

needed to mount optics, so we came up with an optics

done

cut for various optic models. What became very evident

with that,

quickly was that the new Trijicon SRO was going to be

you have a

the optic of choice.

very light slide

“The problem was the larger footprint of that optic mated on the trapezoidal/narrow slide of the CZ meant

optic using our patent-pending mounting system.”

the mounting screws would break through the sides of

Although the SRO is a popular optic to pair with this

the slide. As a result, most shooters were opting for an

build—that’s what rides on top of this Shadow 2, after

adapter plate mounting system. The problem with that

all—Wingfield points out that his company can build a

was that A, it adds weight, and B, it raises the optic up.

pistol, and already has, to accommodate virtually any

“So we engineered and filed for a patent on our Red

other alternative. “We can mount any optic currently on

Dot Optic Mounting System, or RDOMS. Our system

the market on this gun except for the ACRO by Aimpoint,”

involves machining the slide to accept a couple of

Wingfield says. “And honestly, that’s only because

inserts that we manufacture at Fire 4 Effect. These

nobody has asked us to do it yet.”

inserts are custom-fitted to the slide, then the final

58

mated with the SRO

While brother Matt oversees much of the machine work,

machining phase is performed with the inserts attached

Will Wingfield personally performs the final machining

to provide a perfect-fit optic cut that does not use an

inspection, deburring, polishing, and surface prep. The

adapter plate and keeps the optic very low. So low [that]

standard finish is black nitride, which Wingfield says will

we have to relief the top of the slide for the hood on the

outlast any PVD, KG, or Cerakote… the one drawback

SRO itself. All of that machining is just the start. When

being the color, which is always black. As an alternative,

UN12 / Issue 010

01 SHADOW 2 Factory features include an undercut trigger guard and high beaver tail to put the bore more in line with the shooter’s arm.

02 SLIDE Custom lightening work includes serrated top and side window cuts.

02

“The Fire 4 Effect Shadow 2 is built with the competitive shooter in mind, but equally suited to recreational or defensive use.”

UN12mag.com

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FEATURE

01

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Fire 4 Effect can also do custom Cerakote inhouse on request (overseen by Matt Wingfield) and has done so on more than one occasion to spectacular result.

In addition to machining capabilities, Fire 4 Effect also performs laser engraving work, examples of which have been applied to this pistol. The “Shadow 2” designation on the factory-issue slide is converted to “Stin Dva” (Shadow 2 in Czech). On the opposite side, a Fire 4 Effect Weapon Systems Carry Optics Legal designation may optionally be applied as it was here.

Final assembly is performed by Fire 4 Effect’s master gunsmith, Matt Haidu, who came to the company by

full-service machine shop out of 5,000 square feet in West

way of the United States Army’s Marksmanship Unit

Texas. It’s a full-time operation and then some, turning out

(USAMU), where he spent uncounted hours building

between 60 and 100 projects per month to the tune of 10-

guns for the finest shooters the Army could field—

and 12-hour days, seven days a week. For Wingfield, it is

obviously, a rarefied group.

largely a labor of love.

“Matt received more insight to the building of custom

employees do. I survive off my regular job providing

experience,” Wingfield says. Haidu assembles the

anesthesia at the local trauma center.” behooves us to keep an eye on Fire 4 Effect in the near

pistol’s fit and finish. The pistols are then equipped with

term. “I really think 2020 and 2021 will be the years we go

either LOK or factory CZ grips. On aluminum grips,

to that ‘next level,’” Wingfield says in closing. “We’ve got

custom anodizing options are available. This particular

big things coming down the pike.”

Shadow 2 wears a set of LOK Palm Swell Bogies in an

[ UN12 ]

UN12 / Issue 010

01 03

02

FIRE CONTROL Cajun Gun Works Pro Pack components are used to enhance the Shadow 2’s alreadyremarkable trigger group.

Even so, the future is looking hot and he says it

components and is the final hand in the completed

orange/black pattern.

02

“I still don’t take a paycheck,” he says. “Only my

pistols than most smiths can claim in a lifetime of gun using Cajun Gun Works Pro Package trigger

60

Ten years or so after beginning work on other people’s weapons, Wingfield and Fire 4 Effect currently operate a

01 OPTIC CUT The patentpending RDOMS accommodates a red dot without a need for an adapter plate.

03 GRIPS Ergonomically contoured LOK Palm Swell Bogies were employed on this build.

UN12mag.com

61

UN12

E X P L O D E D VIEW

Fire 4 Effect Carry Optics Legal CZ Shadow 2 Specifications Caliber: 9mm Luger Capacity: 17+1 Barrel: CZ Overall Length: 8.53 in.

Weight Unloaded: 2 lbs, 8.5 oz.

Coating: Black nitride Frame: CZ Slide: Fire 4 Effect Carry Optics Package w/laser engraving Optic: Trijicon SRO

Featured Accessories Cajun Gun Works Pro Package trigger group, LOK Palm Swell Bogie grips

“I’d take it over a 1911 built by any one any day... it’s an awesome product a lot of shooters haven’t explored.”

—Will Wingfield

About the Builder Fire 4 Effect Weapon Systems, LLC URL: fire-4-effect.com Social: FB @fire4effectllc, IG @fire4effectllc

62

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

FEATURE

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

HELMET GEAR & SETUPS Text & Images by CHARLES

I

“CHIP” LASKY

n UN12’s very first issue I wrote about setting up

century prior. Few things advance technology faster

a helmet for various applications. A lot of things

than war. I’ve been lucky enough to get experience

have changed since then, and many new products have

with a lot of different helmets through the years. And

come to market. And while I covered the basics of setting

I’ve been able to watch manufacturers take direct

up a helmet for professional or recreational use of night

warfighter feedback and use it to turn out even better

vision goggles, I did not talk about what I personally wear.

products. In my opinion, the current leaders in American

Throughout my writings I’ve continually mentioned that

warfighter helmet design are Ops-Core/Gentex, Team

I am a total gear whore. Always have been and always

Wendy, Crye Precision, and MTEK. Please note that

will be. Embarrassing as it is to admit, that was one of the

this analysis is based on my personal experience with

things that drew me to special operations. While I got the

these helmets and not a market study. I’m sure there are

chance to operate with some of the fiercest warriors on

other great helmet brands out there, but I lack practical

the planet, I also got to use some of the coolest toys. And

experience with them.

one of the most iconic pieces of kit for any elite warfighter throughout history has been his helmet.

Helmet technology has come a long way over the

Worn gear is tricky to design since no two people have the same exact body build. This is especially true for helmets because the human head requires a lot of

past 20 years. I’d venture to say that we have seen a

consideration: protection, mobility, weight, padding,

bigger leap in helmet design and material advancement

accessory integration. Our heads are our information

during the GWOT than we have in all the years of the

hubs. Most of our sensory cues are collected by our

64

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FEATURE

66

UN12 / Issue 010

they began holding shape. Ops-Core was

so it’s important to enable the use of these

the original designed-from-the-ground-up

senses with the least amount of impairment

special operations helmet. They started the

brought on by protective gear. Comfort must

trend of taking the helmet concept down

be a high priority, because if your head is

to its core and designing something based

uncomfortable it’s hard to focus on anything

completely around feedback from elite

else. And of course we need to integrate

warriors. Other companies followed suit and

essential accessories. The modern battlefield

we now have many great options from several

is more advanced than the ones our fathers

manufacturers from which the warrior can

and grandfathers fought on. With new threats

choose. Over the years I wore Crye Precision

come new tactics. And with new tactics

Airframes, Team Wendy EXFILs, and MTEK

comes new gear to support them. As always,

FLUXs. All are solid options to be sure, but I

I search for a balance of combat effectiveness

kept coming back to Ops-Core.

and comfort when assembling my gear. Every

Admittedly, I was never a fan of Ops-Core’s

little piece gets interrogated before getting

original liner system (the OCC Dial). To me,

added: Will this widget help me be a more

the “pads” might as well have been river

effective gunfighter? Does this item help

stones attached with Velcro. They featured

support the three tenets of gunfighting—

a rigid impact foam backer with a thin layer

shoot, move, communicate?

of padding that grabbed my hair and pulled

My go-to helmet is an Ops-Core FAST SF.

every time I turned my head. I tossed those

This is the latest/greatest entry in the storied

pads and replaced them with old ACH pads

FAST helmet line. I still have my original

from Team Wendy. Clearly I was not the

FAST Ballistic (from before they began

only one to make this observation because

calling it the FAST XP), covered in layers of

Ops-Core would go on to replace the original

spray paint. It’s on its fifth liner system since

OCC with the new LUX Liner, which is way

the previous ones got so used and crusty

more comfortable. But the thing that always

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

“Our heads are our information hubs. Most of our sensory cues are collected by our heads through sight, sound, smell, and taste, and it’s important to enable use of these senses with the least amount of impairment.”

head (through sight, sound, smell, and taste)

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FEATURE

03

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GEAR

01 SHELL The author has experience with several helmet makes, but kept coming back to the Ops-Core FAST SF.

advanced ballistic materials available. While

there is a reason that helmet manufacturers

I am no longer operational, I teach classes

have “fit guides” and “fitting kits” for their

that place me around gunfire and explosives.

specialty helmets. As noted, the helmet is

So I still choose to wear a ballistic helmet

the nerve center for most of the warfighter’s

rather than a lighter bump shell. The helmet

sensory gear: communications headset, night

came with the excellent Ops-Core LUX Liner

vision goggles, O2 mask, gas mask, and so

pre-installed, but I have made some changes

on. And the head is a very sensitive part of the

to the pad layout. Helmets are notorious for

body. The helmet needs to protect your brain

“Helmets tend to create ‘hot spots’ of discomfort over long periods of wear, so be sure to experiment with pad shapes and sizes to ensure all-around coverage and long-term comfort.”

creating “hot spots” of discomfort over long

from TBI/ballistic threats while keeping all the

periods of wear, so don’t just use whatever

02

drew me back to Ops-Core was the shell. The

of mixing and matching, I replaced the OEM

profile simply fit my head and integrated with

brow pad with one from 4D Tactical. The 4D

LINER

my gear (plate carrier and pack) better than

pads are some of the best in the business,

Comfort is subjective, but it is key for optimal performance.

others. Having said that, comfort and fit is

containing a memory foam that will conform

100% subjective and any of the helmets listed

to the curvature of your head. I like this brow

above are good to go as a base.

pad more than the multi-cell version that

My FAST SF helmet features a lightweight ballistic shell built from some of the most

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UN12 / Issue 010

The helmet is the nerve center for a warfighter’s sensory gear— comms, night vision, masks, and so on.

comes with the helmet.

On the topic of fitting a helmet and pads—

can be made up with pads and chinstraps. If

same micro-movement will also bunch the

your measurement puts you squarely within

hat material up, potentially exposing your

the range of a specific size, then you may

sensitive ears to the cold. The Cold Weather

consider yourself lucky and you should stick

Liner solves those issues for me, keeping

with that size. One thing is certain: Wearing

me warm and protected from the elements

a helmet that’s too small for your head is one

without adding discomfort.

of the most miserable feelings.

I also live and often teach classes in

One thing to consider when wearing cold weather gear with a helmet is the seal of your

northern states where it’s colder for a good

ear-pro. I have permanent hearing loss in

portion of the year. During those frosty

both ears from years of combat. Although I

months I keep a Unity Tactical Cold Weather

always did everything I could to protect my

Liner installed in my helmet. The CWL

hearing, the cumulative effects of extremely

eliminates the major discomfort of trying to

loud noises will take its toll on anyone in

smoosh a fleece cap or balaclava under your

this line of work. Whether you wear a fleece

helmet. This little detail is often overlooked

cap under your helmet or an integrated

until it becomes a major pain. The thickness

cold weather liner, you are placing a layer

traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the event of

of a fleece watch cap or winter balaclava will

of material between your ears and the ear

aforementioned gear stable and in ready-use

blunt force trauma to the head. If the helmet

displace the pads enough to add noticeable

cups of your headset or ear-pro. This will

configuration comes out of the box. My head

placement, all while creating the least amount

is too big, the shell could move around

pressure around your head. This can cause

reduce the factory NRR (Noise Reduction

slopes down toward the front (I was probably

of discomfort. It is absolutely imperative that

on his head during use and compromise

a level of discomfort that will be exacerbated

Rating) of the device and expose your

dropped as a child), so I put thicker pads

a helmet is fit properly to the wearer. If it’s too

coverage in the event of ballistic threats,

by being cold. The weight of the helmet will

ears to damaging decibel levels. In these

in the front dome and thinner pads in the

small, the fit will be too tight and the wearer

while also shifting mission-critical gear

also cause it to grip the hat material and

circumstances it is important to double

rear dome. It’s important to mix and match

will experience a pressure headache. To

around. I always recommend biasing toward

micro-grind it into your scalp and forehead.

up your hearing protection by using in-ear

pad shapes and sizes to ensure all-around

relieve this pressure he may opt to use thinner

the larger option if your head measurement

This can cause blisters and abrasions

buds (such as foamies or pass-throughs

coverage and long-term comfort. Speaking

pads, which leaves him open to possible

puts you in between sizes. The difference

throughout the duration of a mission. The

like the SureFire Sonic Defenders), or UN12mag.com

69

FEATURE

natural night vision while producing the least noticeable downrange signature. It can be used for all sorts of up-close tasks, from map-reading and gear maintenance to visual personnel interrogation and target location verification. I’ve attached the KNUCKL to the ARC rail and run a loop of shock cord through the center hole and slits in the rail. The cord is tied off with an overhand knot behind the rail (which required me to remove the rail to gain access). The KNUCKL was designed to make use of the Wilcox Industries

05 LIGHTING Auxiliary light sources are important, in both visible and infrared spectrums, for a variety of tasks.

Retractable Lanyard, but I prefer my ghettorigging because it’s lower profile and acts as a rotation limiter while still keeping the

04 NIGHT VISION The author’s goggles are attached via a Wilcox L4 G22 helmet mount, which allows greater flexibility for NVG use with other PPE like a gas mask.

70

UN12 / Issue 010

integrated hearing systems like the Ops-

provide doubled-up ear pro and seamless

my helmet is going to be purposeful. I use two

Core AMP with NFMI ear buds. Doing so

communications transmission. Basically,

types of lights for different purposes. They

will ensure you maintain the highest level of

it does everything the manufacturer says it

are mounted on the same side of my helmet

hearing protection while staying warm on the

does. But this is a helmet setup analysis, so

on a Unity Tactical KNUCKL kit. The top light

battlefield.

let’s focus on that aspect.

“It’s important to experiment with your setup; it’s often the little things that end up making the biggest impact on the warfighter’s ability to concentrate on the mission at hand.”

is a SureFire M300V, which provides both

assembly retained on the helmet. Retention of

I feel like I have a permanent indentation

The AMP uniquely mounts to the helmet

white and infrared light. I’m not a huge fan of

gear is critical on the battlefield.

over the top of my head from years of shoving

at the rear rail behind your ear. As with guns,

the SureFire V-Series lights on guns because

a headset under my helmet. No matter

rail estate comes at a premium with helmets.

I feel they are a bit anemic with a 250-lumen

clips for my Ops-Core Step-In Visor. I am

how hard I tried to create channels for the

There are other mission-critical accessories

output (compared to the 600-1,000 lumens

a huge fan of this piece since I’ve never

headband using custom pad configurations,

that need to mount on my helmet. Since

that are common today). But it’s more than

liked the arms of shooting glasses being

Velcro, tape, and other methods, I could

they can usually only go on the horizontal

enough for a helmet-mounted spotlight. It

compressed against my temples under my

never find a fully comfortable setup that

rails above the ears, I cannot monopolize the

gives solid real-world performance out to

headset. Sure, the Step-In only attaches to

included an under-the-helmet headset. That’s

space with my headset mounts. The AMP

a little under 100 yards, but I can also get

the helmet and I’ll lose my eye pro if I remove

why I choose to keep my headset attached

Helmet Adapter Arms attach to the rear rails

a good LED-based IR spot out of it. This

my lid. But that’s why I keep a pair of Oakleys

to the rails on my helmet. I don’t want

and extend forward to support the ear cups

is useful while driving ATVs under NVGs.

in my pocket. I love the Step-In Visor for the

anything pressing against my head if I can

over my ears. They have heavy duty springs

My head may not always be pointed in the

same reason I love the Cold Weather Liner—

avoid it. The Ops-Core AMP is my personal

that keep constant inward pressure on the ear

direction of travel, so IR headlights aren’t

it’s the little things that increase comfort

favorite electronic ear-pro/communication

cups, thereby increasing the NRR capability

always the best option. And I can rotate the

and end up making a gigantic impact on the

headset. Without getting too deep in the

of the system. This configuration also helps

bezel to the “off” position to make sure I don’t

warfighter’s ability to concentrate on the

woods talking about the AMP, it features

to balance my helmet while wearing NVGs

get any accidental discharges of light.

mission at hand.

unparalleled modularity, versatility, and

because it places the center a little farther

systemic integration with my helmet. I can

back. And it keeps my top rails free for

MPLS Switch (white/red LEDs). This light is

Wilcox Industries L4 G22 helmet mount. I’ve

reconfigure it between headset and helmet

attaching other accessories.

for close-in, task-oriented use only. I greatly

used the G24 mount for years and the G22 is

prefer this LED configuration because red

the latest evolution. It’s a G24 with a slightly

light has the least negative effect on my

longer fore/aft travel arm that allows for better

mount in under a minute, and it features Near

Like anything else, it’s easy to get carried

Field Magnetic Interface (NFMI) ear buds that

away. So I make sure that anything I put on

Beneath the SureFire is a Princeton Tec

06 RAIL SPACE As with guns, “rail estate” on a helmet is finite, so each piece of gear must be methodically interrogated and placed.

The front of my ARC rails have attachment

My AN/PVS-31A BNVD is connected with a

07 RETENTION In the duress of combat, it’s critical to keep gear secondarily secured in case your primary mounting method fails.

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FEATURE

08 COMMS The AMP headset mounts to the helmet’s rear rail behind your ears, keeping the forward rails above your ears free for other uses.

use of NVGs with gas masks and other PPE.

mount in the field (the spring-loaded clips

ties. Exposed cord loops that may possibly

The L4 G22 clips into the Ops-Core Bungee

completely secure around the rings on the

snag are a no-no.

Shroud. Bungees are important when using

goggle itself). Second, they will pull the NVG

dual-tube goggles because they add tension

up and toward the helmet rather than down

on battery packs doesn’t hold up to the

to the mount assembly and reduce or remove

and into my nose (which has already been

elements, so I keep mine in a TNVC Mohawk

any wobble from the mechanical tolerance

broken five times). The NVG is powered by the

Mk3. The Mohawk gives me the ability to

stack. The bungees built into this shroud

L-3/Insight Winter Battery Pack on the back of

secure and organize kit on the back and top of

serve two purposes. First, they retain the

my helmet. The power cable runs over the top

my helmet. It attaches to the shell with Velcro

goggle in the event that it is knocked off the

of the ARC rail and is secured with mini zip-

and is further secured with loops going to the

I’ve found that the factory Velcro backing

ARC Rails. While some guys use 550 cord for security, I prefer shock cord for the elasticity.

I run the shock cord through the holes in the ARC rail and tie the loops off with overhand knots under the rail before reinstalling them (just like the security loop on the KNUCKL). I can even use the shock cord to stow my Gas Mask Extender when not in use. The bottom One-Wrap loops hold my PTT downlead when not connected to a PTT. I always recommend having a batteryoperated active IFF device (strobe) on a helmet. IFF stands for Identification Friend/ Foe and is the thing that will keep you from getting turned to pink mist by a friendly gunship at night. My strobe of choice is the

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FI RE 4 E FF E CT W E A P O N S Y S T E M S L I G H T PA T RO L RI FLE

B U I LT F O R H A R D U S E

BY HARD USERS… - CU STO M MATCHED BILLET RECEI VER - AMBI CONTROL SY STEMS

09

- QU A LITY TRI GGER, BA RREL AND CO MPO NENTS

OTHER GEAR Auxiliary lighting, strobes, and videocapture equipment may all be employed and should be securely mounted to your helmet.

“Missions will always vary, but the basic principles of setting up a helmet should come down to supporting the three basic tenets of gunfighting— shoot, move, communicate.”

as firing in the correct mode and spectrum

should come down to supporting the three

without me having to look at it.

basic tenets of gunfighting—shoot/move/

The last piece of gear I use with my helmet

communicate. And you can only do that if

is a Mohoc video camera for recording POV.

you’re not distracted by an uncomfortable

Most guys are familiar with this piece of kit

helmet. The added weight and bulk of a

and its durability. I have found it to be one of

helmet, NVGs, comms, and other gear will

the least temperamental helmet cams with

already be enough of a headache. So every

some of the highest quality video capture

opportunity to eliminate pressure points,

available. And it can take beating. Like

hot spots, and unnecessary weight should

everything else, I want to make sure it is

be explored. Modern battlefields require

Core Survival HEL-STAR 6. Most military

dummy-corded to my helmet. In this case, I

modern technology. The information age

strobes will have visible and IR modes.

don’t want to lose an expensive piece of kit.

extends to the warfighter with augmented

And when they are activated, it is almost

If I was still operating, I would not want to

PPE, hearing, communication, vision, IFF

LE O /M I L /FR P R ICIN G AVAILABLE

impossible for the wearer to see that they are

lose a camera containing sensitive mission

marking, and recording devices. It may

functioning or ensure they are functioning

data. The Mohoc comes with a lanyard string

seem like a lot “stuff” to the uninitiated, but

LE O D E P T S EI Z URE / LOAN E R P ROGRAM

in the proper spectrum. If your team is set

that’s long enough to wear like a necklace.

these are the tools of the modern warrior.

up on a ridge marking targets for a gunship,

Instead of using something so fragile, I built

Do not sacrifice capability in the name

you can blow the whole thing if you turn

a custom-length loop of coated leader wire

of minimalism, but ensure your gear has

on visible strobes by accident. I use and

that attaches to a micro Nite-Ize S-Biner on

purpose and utility. Don’t just add something

recommend the Core Survival HEL-STAR

the back of my helmet.

because you saw a picture of some special

C O U P O N C O D E U N 12- 1 S A L E S @ F I RE - 4- E FF E CT.COM 1 0 5 1 ME AD O W W E S T D RI V E , E L P A S O, TE XA S 79 9 32 • WW W .F I RE - 4- E F FE C T.COM

because it has positive click detents that

Life is dangerous, so you should wear a

can be felt by gloved fingers to assure me

helmet. Your mission may differ from mine,

operator on Instagram with it. Focus on your mission requirements.

that my strobe is active or inactive, as well

but the basic principles of setting up a helmet

[ UN12 ]

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ADVENTURE

Black Rifle Coffee Co. Custom Ford F-150

: : Custom Ford F-150 built for the SEMA tradeshow

: : Commissioned by Black Rifle Coffee Company

: : Totally integrated TruckVault bed storage system

Text by JOHN PANGILINAN

Images by J. ROBERT MARKETING

T

he Specialty Equipment Market Association Show—SEMA for

short—is the world’s largest automotive aftermarket tradeshow. The annual industry-only event takes place in Las Vegas, where it encompasses the entire convention center grounds and even spreads out through the city. Each year thousands of builders, shops, and brands debut their custom creations in the form of unique project vehicles that often take countless man-hours to create.

With booth space being both expensive and limited, it is an honor for individual builders to have their projects selected for display. Only a handful of manufacturers will work with independent builders and provide a coveted spot within their show booths.

One of those manufacturers is Ford, which receives hundreds of proposals annually to showcase vehicles prominently as part of its SEMA display. For Jhan Dolphin, it’s become a common occurrence to have his projects displayed at SEMA. He designed his first promotional vehicle in 2003. Since then, he’s been involved in a number of high-profile builds with brands and personalities to include the NRA, Kryptek Outdoor Group, magician Criss Angel, rock band Cheap Trick, Dairy Queen, and Maui Jim. Many of his projects have also been featured on television shows like Carbon TV, Pure Hunting, and Intrepid Outdoors.

Through this experience, Dolphin was introduced to Black Rifle Coffee Company by his friend Butch Whiting at Kryptek Outdoor Group. Black Rifle Coffee Company is a veteran owned and operated premium small-batch coffee company that’s been globally recognized for its cuttingedge, energetic, and unapologetically edgy marketing campaigns, as well as its

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01

07

philanthropic efforts. When Dolphin was

winch was also installed. The truck’s

awarded a 2019 Ford F-150 for display

EcoBoost V6 was equipped with a Borla

inside the Ford booth at the 2019 SEMA

exhaust for added performance.

Show, it made complete sense for him to

One of the best ways to stand out

partner with Black Rifle Coffee Company

at SEMA amongst the thousands of

on the build.

vehicles is with an eye-catching graphic

“The real fun starts when you align the

treatment. For this, Dolphin turned to

vehicle’s design and custom features

the team at CPV Paint and Graphics in

with the emotions connected with

Franksville, Wisconsin, known for their

an engaging brand,” Dolphin says.

work with Harley-Davidson. The team

“For anyone who knows anything

worked with Kryptek Outdoor Group to

about working with Black Rifle Coffee

design an all-new camo pattern called

Company, they’ll understand that this is

Obskura Nox and applied the satin-

about as fun as it can get.”

finish vinyl to complement the truck’s

Many of Dolphin’s projects are

gloss black paint.

centered around a theme. He’s found

Not one to leave his vehicle’s interior

that it’s more fun for the audience when

stock, Dolphin opted to upgrade the

the vehicle has a story behind it. He was

upholstery with two-tone Katzkin

inspired by his son’s service in the U.S.

leather complete with the Black Rifle

Army and is passionate about the needs

Coffee Company logo embroidered on

of veterans and the challenges that

the headrests to match the black, gray,

many of them face when returning home.

and tan colors of the Obskura Nox-

So he decided to work with a patriotic

patterned exterior. For communications,

brand that’s actively involved in making

a Cobra Electronics 75 WX ST CB radio,

a difference.

handheld 50 WX CB, and MR HH450 All-

“We only focus on areas where we

Terrain radios were also installed inside

have passion and experience—sports

the cabin. A Cobra Road Scout radar-

and fitness, motorsports, and outdoor/

detector/dashcam was also installed,

adventure,” he says. “These are the

along with a Cobra power inverter. A

same things we enjoy during our own

Switch-Pros 8-panel power system

01

02

The base vehicle is a 2019 Ford F-150 4x4 with the EcoBoost V6.

A Yakima Load Warrior roof basket sits atop the ARE bed shell.

03

The Warn Ascent bumper conceals a Warn 97600 9.5sct-s winch.

04

Initial concept drawing for the BRCC Back Country Access Vehicle.

05

The truck’s bed area served as the perfect stage to showcase BRCC’s wares at SEMA.

06

A TruckVault two-drawer bed storage system adds serious utility.

07

KMC XD Demodog wheels wrapped with Interco Super Swampers interface with the trail.

personal free time, so we can speak enthusiastically and intelligently about all

was added to help control the Rigid LED 02

05

of these markets.”

exterior lights.

A custom Rockford Fosgate sound

With all of this in mind, the

system built by Soundz Plus rounds out

collaboration on Black Rifle Coffee

the interior. The factory speakers were

Company’s “Back Country Access”

replaced with Rockford Fosgate units,

Ford F-150 began in earnest. Dolphin

along with the addition of two 10-inch

assembled a who’s-who list of custom

subwoofers under the rear seat. There’s

builders and vendors to help. These

also a second sound system with four

specialists included Matt Dinelli from

Rockford Fosgate can speakers, which

Attitude Performance in Arlington, Illinois,

can be controlled by a smartphone,

and his 17-year-old son, Jake, who took

located in the bed of the truck.

the role of project lead.

Storage and organization were also

Attitude Performance began the build by outfitting the truck with a BDS 6-inch

key points for the build, so Dolphin 03

04

06

07

turned to TruckVault for a bed storage

coilover lift kit with Fox shocks in the

system. The dual-drawer configuration

front and upgraded springs and Fox

features lockable storage to help protect

shocks in the rear. Larger fender flares

valuables when on the road. Additionally,

were added to the body to help fit the

the storage area served as the perfect

big 20-inch KMC XD Demodog wheels

place to show off Black Rifle Coffee

wrapped with Interco Super Swamper

Company’s collection of craft beans and

M16 37x13.50-inch tires. For protection

merchandise at SEMA.

on the trails, the team at Attitude installed

An ARE HD Truck Cap provides extra

a set of front and rear Warn Ascent

storage over the truck’s bed; it was

bumpers with Baja tubes. For peace of

modified to display all of the coffee

mind on the trails, a Warn 97600 9.5sct-s

brewing equipment needed to make the

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08

Black Rifle Coffee Co. Back Country Access Vehicle

Base Vehicle: 2019 Ford F-150 Engine: EcoBoost V6 Transmission: Ford SelectShift Suspension: Front—BDS 6” coilovers w/Fox shocks Rear—Upgraded springs w/Fox shocks Wheels & Tires: 20” KMC XD Demodog, 37x13.50 Interco Super Swamper Accessories: Rigid lighting, Warn 97600 9.5sct-s winch, ARE HD Truck Cap, TruckVault bed storage system, Warn Ascent front & rear bumpers w/ Baja tubes, custom Katzkin Leather two-tone seats w/ BRCC logo, Cobra Electronics 75 WX ST CB, HH 50 WX ST handheld CB, MR HH450 All-Terrain radios, Cobra Road Scout radar detector & dash cam, Kryptek Outdoor Group Obskura Nox vinyl wrap, dual Rockford Fosgate sound systems, Borla exhaust, Indel B refrigerator

Owner: Jhan Robert Dolphin URL: jrobertmarketing.com; blackriflecoffee.com

08

09

The bed has been outfitted with TruckVault, Indel B, and Rockford Fosgate.

perfect cup of joe—even while spending time off-grid. A Yakima Load Warrior

PowerStep XL side steps assist ingress and egress to and from the lifted truck.

10

A BDS lift with Fox shocks provides improved terrain negotiation.

11

Seating surfaces are upgraded with Katzkin two-tone leather with embroidered logos.

09

basket roof rack and accessories sit on top of the shell. To help keep food and beverages cold, an Indel B refrigerator was also added to the bed area.

Anyone who’s worked on a SEMA project knows the build timeline can be quite tight, and countless hours are spent

You know more than anyone, there is a tactical tool

ensuring the final product is up to spec.

Dolphin surrounded himself with a solid

and accessory for any purpose. Whether you depend on

team and built relationships with many

your weaponry and tools for service, work, or even the

brands to help make this project come to

zombie apocalypse one constant remains... they're there

fruition within three months.

With the SEMA show now in its rearview mirrors, the truck will be put to use and taken on future adventures with family and friends, as well as showcased at various events with Black Rifle Coffee Company. “Too often we see vehicles that are so over-customized that they no longer perform well or are even close to reliable,” Dolphin says. “Ours was built to be driven! We weren’t interested in building a trailer queen.” [ UN12 ]

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11

for you when the demands call. Relying on your meticulously chosen gear requires a constant peace of mind th that they are safe, secure and accessible.

TruckVault offers secure storage solutions for tactical gearheads to keep their gear and guns safe.

: : Matched Quentin Defense ARQ receivers

FEATURE

: : ATN ThOR 4 640 4-40x Smart HD thermal scope : : Chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor

THERMAL IMAGING

Suppressed 6.5 Creedmoor

Text by ROLAND WILKES Images by JAY CANTER

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FEATURE

F

or a true firearms enthusiast, working in the

Creedmoor is a logical and solid choice for that,”

industry—whether it’s in manufacturing,

Canter says. “As someone [for whom] part of day-

marketing, media, or otherwise—might be seen as

to-day business is designing and putting together

both a blessing and a curse.

ground-up custom builds, I like to stick to companies

Jay Canter is a man whose photography and gun builds have both graced these pages before.

One of his avenues of work, that of commercial

that I know play well together and who are known for producing solid, quality components.”

The basis for this particular build is a matched set

photography for a variety of firearm parts and

of Quentin Defense (QD) billet receivers in the AR-10

accessory manufacturers, gives him access to a lot

pattern. Machined from 7075-T6 aluminum, the QD

of the best hardware the industry has to offer—at

“ARQ” set features an ambidextrous bolt release and

least to handle and ogle for a short period of time.

accepts many loose components from an LR-308—

And the potential problem with that is that it tends to

the “other” AR-10—such as the ejection port dust

set your disposable income on fire in your pockets, to

cover and lower small parts.

paraphrase an old cliché “I have been a professional commercial and

Canter’s upper currently hosts a 2A Armament full-mass BCG and a Strike Industries .308 Ultimate

editorial photographer for 25 years,” Canter says.

Dust Cover. Direct from the CNC mill, Quentin

“Part of the appeal and curse of having so many

Defense’s lower boasts an integrated trigger guard,

awesome products come through the photo studio

enlarged magwell opening, and QD’s proprietary

is just that—so many cool pieces tend to pass through my hands, and some get me really excited to incorporate into a build.”

Having already done builds using all the “standard” calibers, he wanted to do something different from what he had done up to that point. “I wanted something I could use for the longer ranges; 6.5

Charging A Strike Eagle charging handle sourced from POFUSA gets the precision shooting party started.

“Having already done builds using the ‘standard’ AR calibers, Canter wanted to do something a bit different from what he’d done up to that point.”

Bipod An Atlas BT35-LW17 5-H bipod mounted as far front as it’ll go provides welcome shot stability.

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FEATURE

Handguard The Odin Works O2 Light features a maximum amount of material removed for optimal weight savings.

Suppressor This AMTAC Mantis-P is a custom-order unit with a carbon exterior in lieu of one of the standard off-the-shelf finishes.

ARQ radius magwell ramp design. All told, the stripped

outset. One remarkable aspect of this build

components—upper and lower—weigh about 20

is the barrel assembly. The barrel itself is a

ounces. Canter put his bottom receiver together with

22-inch BSF fluted carbon-fiber unit. That is to

parts from 2A Armament, including black titanium

say the metal barrel core is fluted on the outside

takedown pins, a bolt catch and magazine release

and then covered with one slotted carbon jacket that

from Forward Controls Design, and a V Seven Systems

runs from the barrel extension to the gas block, then

Hybrid 3-Gun ambi safety selector.

another that runs from the gas block to the shank.

User controls include a POF-USA Enhanced Finger Placement (EFP) trigger group fitted with anti-walk pins, a POF-USA Strike Eagle charging handle for AR-10, and a Luth-AR “The Chubby Grip” pistol grip. The trigger features a signature bend toward the bottom of the trigger shoe for positive finger placement, a nice touch when operating in the sorts of low-light conditions this weapon was built for—more on that in a minute.

The Chubby gets its name from the full palm swell and features like the trigger-finger, thumb, and palm rests that help promote rapid shooting-hand acquisition and proper placement—say, in total darkness.

Along with the obvious desire for high performance, weight savings was a key interest in this build from the

In contrast to other methods of carbon wrapping,

“Along with the obvious desire for high performance, weight savings was a key interest in this build from the outset, evidenced by a minimalist handguard, lightweight receivers, and the carbon barrel.”

BSF creates their barrel by jacketing the 416R stainless core with roll-wrapped carbon sleeves loaded under tension. There is actually air in between

Grip The Chubby Grip from Luth-AR features ergonomic contours that guide the shooter’s hand into an optimal position.

the metal of the barrel proper and the carbon sleeves to allow heat to radiate from the metal and then escape via slots cut into the carbon, eliminating the possibility of the carbon delaminating under heavy use, which could become an issue with traditional carbonwrapped barrels. According to Canter, the 35.7-ounce BSF barrel is roughly a half pound lighter than an allmetal barrel of similar length.

The other part of the barrel equation is the suppressor, an AMTAC Mantis-P for 6.5 Creedmoor.

“A few SHOT Shows ago I was walking the isles and AMTAC stopped me in my tracks,” Canter recalls.

“I saw a carbon-fiber-wrapped suppressor sticking out the front of one of their demo guns. Come to find out they had done these custom high-end cans for precision shooting.”

He filed that knowledge away for later reference, and when it became apparent that the 6.5 build was going to become reality, Canter says he knew this was

Rangefinder

just the suppressor he needed to mate to the BSF

An ATN Auxiliary Ballistic Laser 1500 mates to the optic and is capable of communicating with the scope via Bluetooth.

to the barrel and features an “over barrel” chamber

barrel. The Mantis-P is designed to thread directly engineered to reduce gas blowback without adding additional overall length. The suppressor’s length is just under 10 inches, but four of those inches slip over the barrel itself. AMTAC offers three standard finish options on its Mantis suppressor line, but the carbon wrap on this particular can was a special-order option.

Toward the rifle’s business end, a Superlative Arms adjustable gas block feeds a rifle-length Rainier tube in black nitride. The gas-feed

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FEATURE

system and high-tech BFA barrel are housed by

“Predator mode”). The tradeoff is that the scope,

a free-float Odin Works 17.5-inch O2 Light AR-10

while it’s attached to the Creedmoor, makes this

handguard slotted for m-lok attachments at three,

a hunting instrument for low-light, no-light, or

six, and nine o’clock. The handguard itself weighs

poor-visibility conditions—not really for plinking.

around 10 and three quarters ounces. For forward

But Canter thinks it inevitable it’ll soon fill this

stability on this long, long AR, a BT35-LW17 5-H

requirement, as he knows people involved with the

Atlas bipod from Accu-Shot has been attached to the

nighttime culling of invasive species, and this seems

Odin guard about as far forward as it can go.

just the tool for him to volunteer to help them do it.

At the opposite end, a 2A Armament AR-10 buffer

For a high-end, custom build such as this, the

tube houses a Mil-Spec .308 spring and buffer that

final thing Canter wanted to do was create a high-

were supplied with the Luth-AR MBA-3 buttstock.

end, equally custom color pattern. “One of my

The MBA (Modular Buttstock Assembly) features

go-to [Cerakote applicators] that’s local to me is

a 3-axis buttplate with length-of-pull, height,

Koted Arms,” he says. “For this build I wanted to

and lateral adjustment. An Accu-Shot BT12-QK

do something I had not really ever seen before on

monopod is affixed to the integrated rail cut into the

anything. So I went to them and asked, ‘Are you able

stock’s lower edge.

to take different camo patterns and make them look

Of course, what good is a long-range precision instrument like this 6.5 Creedmoor without an equally impressive optic? The spyglass in question is an ATN Corp. ThOR 4 640 4-40x, what they call a “Smart HD” thermal riflescope. Scopes scarcely come

“What’s a high-end rifle build without an equally high-end riflescope? The ATN ThOR features 4th-gen sensors, an integrated ballistic calculator, and a slew of other features.” more high-tech these days than this thing, which incorporates 4th-gen thermal sensors, a ballistic calculator, recoil-activated video, Bluetooth and wi-fi capability, and a slew of other features. An ATN Corp. Auxiliary Ballistic Laser 1500 rangefinder has been fitted to the scope’s forward end and integrates seamlessly with the ThOR’s onboard ballistic calculator. The whole sits astride the rifle on a quickdetach ATN 30mm mount.

“This is their 4th gen 640x480,” Canter says of the riflescope, “which produces some super-clean images even in the darkest of conditions. Back in the day, seeing the film ‘Predator’ and how the thermal signatures were shown... I always thought that was pretty cool. This was sort of that same thought.”

The ATN scope can display thermal images in black-hot, white-hot, or in color (the aforementioned

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cohesive?’ It took a bit of time to create, but I think it

Buttstock The Luth-AR MBA-3 features a 3-axis buttplate, height and lateral adjustments, an adjustable cheek rise, and has an Accu-Shot monopod attached to the built-in rail.

Receivers The Quentin Defense billet AR-10 upper and lower feature numerous integrated features and together weigh a little over a pound.

is an amazing result.”

All that’s left now is to take it out into the dark and let it light up the night. [ UN12 ]

“With the high-tech ATN thermal scope attached, this is a dedicated precision instrument for lowlight, no-light, or lowvisibility shooting.”

Thermal Imaging Suppressed 6.5 Creedmoor AR Specifications Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor Overall Length: 45.5 in.

Weight Unloaded: 14 lbs, 8 oz.

Receivers: Quentin Defense 7075 billet AR-10

UN12

E X P L O D E D VIEW

Barrel: BSF 22” fluted, carbon fiber jacketed Coating: Cerakote by Koted Arms

Featured Accessories Trigger: POF-USA Enhanced Finger Placement Optic: ATN Corp. ThOR 4 640 4-40x Smart HD thermal riflescope Handguard: Odin Works 17.5” O2 light AR-10 Suppressor: AMTAC Mantis-P 6.5 carbon fiber Buttstock: Luth-AR MBA-3 w/ Accu-Shot BT12-QK monopod Parts & Accessories: 2A Armament AR-10 full-mass BCG, Superlative Arms .875-bore adjustable gas block, Rainier Arms gas tube, Strike Industries Ultimate Dust Cover, POF-USA Strike Eagle AR-10 charging handle, Accu-Shot Atlas BT35-LW17 5-H bipod, ATN Corp. Auxiliary Ballistic Laser 1500 rangefinder, ATN QD 30mm optic mount, 2A Armament titanium takedown pins, V Seven Systems Hybrid 3-gun ambi safety selector, Forward Controls Design ABC/R v2 7.62 bolt catch & EMR-C mag release, 2A Armament AR-10 buffer tube assembly, Luth-AR “The Chubby Grip”

v

About the Owner Name: Jay Canter Occupation: Photographer Social: FB @Jay Canter Photography, IG @jcanterphotography, Twitter @JayCanterPhoto

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DEPT.

01

Buyer’s Guide

Night Vision & Thermal Devices Text by JOHN SCOTT Images COURTESY OF THE MANUFACTURERS

B

eing able to see clearly in the darkness of night or in other low-light situations gives one

These devices come in a variety of configurations, including monoculars, binoculars, scopes, and more.

obvious advantages. Often employed by military and

As with any other tool or device, one should select a

law enforcement personnel, night vision devices (NVD)

style that best fits one’s intended purpose. Head-

and thermal devices are also harnessed by hunters,

mounted monoculars and binoculars, which mount to

outdoor enthusiasts, and recreational shooters.

helmets or other headgear, are popular for those who

Some NVDs greatly amplify low levels of ambient

are on the move and require quick vision. Magnified

light to allow users to see in near-total darkness, while

optics are suitable for those who observe from afar,

others can display the thermal signature of things

such as hunters.

like body heat or a warm engine. There are even

Licentia Arms DTNVG Type: Night Vision Binocular Magnification: 1x Weight: 1 lb, 2.2 oz.

MSRP: From $8,200 URL: licentiaarmsco.com The DTNVG (Dual Tube Night Vision Goggle) is a European import from ACT in Black in Luxembourg. This binocular goggle features an articulating housing that gives the end user flexibility when operating in various environments. When the DTNVG’s pods are stowed they shut off, which eliminates any visible glow and prevents damage to the unit.

DTNVGs have options with ocular and objective lenses. Most models use PVS-14 ocular and objective lenses.

DTNVGs are recommended for those who work in and around vehicles and other confined spaces due to their ability to stow compactly, folded back toward the wearer’s helmet.

Because NVDs can cost a pretty penny, it’s worth

hybrid devices that can combine both capabilities

taking a deep dive into research before deciding on

and display both night vision and thermal displays

investing in one. We’ve gathered some of the latest

simultaneously. We’re seriously living in a golden age

night vision releases here, from some of the top

of NVDs and thermals.

brands in the industry, for you to consider.

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03

ATN

Bushnell

THOR 4 384 4.5-18X

EQUINOX Z2 NIGHT VISION MONOCULAR 4.5X40MM

Type: Thermal Riflescope

Type: Night Vision Monocular

Magnification: 4.5x

Magnification: 4.5x

Weight: 2 lbs, 3.2 oz.

Weight: 1 lb, 6 oz.

MSRP: $3,199

MSRP: $330

URL: atncorp.com

URL: bushnell.com

This thermal riflescope is packed full of features that hunters will find especially useful. Powered by ATN’s Obsidian IV dual core, the 4th generation thermal sensor is available in 384x288 or 640x480 pixel resolutions. The thermal display is capable of showing the target as black hot, white hot, or in color. The scope also includes a video recorder that can record what you see, and there’s a recoil-activated feature that will automatically record your shot when the device senses the rifle’s recoil. Other built-in features include a smart range finder, ballistic calculator, one-shot zero, and more.

If you’re looking for a technologypacked scope, this is worth a look.

Bushnell’s Equinox Z2 night vision monocular enables you to see targets more than 750 feet away, day or night, with a power built-in infrared (IR) illuminator. Since it’s capable of HD video recording, you can use the Z2 to live-stream video to your mobile device. You can also control zoom, video recording, image capture, and IR brightness directly from your mobile device.

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04

US Night Vision HARRIS F5032 LIGHTWEIGHT NIGHT VISION BINOCULAR – WHITE PHOSPHOR Type: Night Vision Binocular Magnification: 1x Weight: 17 oz. (approx.)

MSRP: $11,800 URL: usnightvision.com

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Designed with an emphasis on special operations mission success, the F5032 night vision binocular delivers a tactical advantage in low-light and no-light combat scenarios. Engineered with closefocus technology, an integrated IR illuminator, and hot-swappable image intensifier tubes, the F5032 provides improved operational performance and situational awareness. Clear, close focus allows tactical NVG users to maintain their cover while performing critical, up-close tasks with more clarity than with standard night vision goggles.

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FLIR

TNVC

SCION OTM366

OPTICS1 AN/PAS-29A COTI

Type: Thermal Monocular

Type: Clip-On Thermal Imager

Magnification: 1.3x

Magnification: 1x

Weight: 1 lb, 4.2 oz.

Weight: 5.8 oz.

MSRP: $3,495

MSRP: $6,500

URL: flir.com

URL: tnvc.com

The FLIR Scion OTM captures clear thermal imaging and leverages a refined user interface to quickly detect objects of interest in complete darkness or through glaring light or haze. Built around FLIR’s powerful Boson core, the Scion OTM produces 9- or 60-Hz thermal imaging and records geotagged video and still images for playback long after the day is done. A rugged, IP67-rated housing and intuitive controls allow singlehand operation in harsh weather conditions, helping maintain reliable thermal imaging in the most demanding outdoor environments.

TNVC’s Clip-On Thermal Imager (COTI) is designed to enhance situational awareness and improve the user’s effectiveness at night.

COTI is made to enhance your NVD by overlaying a thermal image onto a night vision scene. The COTI’s thermal image helps users find threats and targets of interest and gives them a detection capability not found with standalone NVDs. The combination of a COTI and NVD provides unmatched identification and detection performance.

07

06

Night Goggles NGI/PVS-14 PHOTONIS 4G ECHO HYBRID PHOTOCATHODE (GEN 2+) Type: Night Vision Monocular Magnification: 1x Weight: 12.4 oz.

MSRP: From $2,514 URL: nightgoggles.com

The AN/PVS-14 is the standard-issue night vision optic serving U.S. forces on the front lines of the Global War on Terror. Considering their versatility, it’s no wonder they have attracted the attention of nocturnal predator hunters, sportsmen, and other enthusiasts. PVS-14s can be mounted on a helmet for hands-free use, behind weapon optics, or used simply as a handheld device. The NGI/PVS-14 is a Photonis 4G ECHO hybrid photocathode (Gen 2+) night vision monocular based on the standard-issue AN/PVS-14. The unit’s Photonis 4G hybrid photocathode uses a Gen 2+ intensifier tube, which is highly suitable for the hunter, sportsman, or shooting enthusiast at a significantly lower cost than Gen 3 image intensifiers.

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FEATURE

Shooter Maturity Experience & Cognitive Capacity

Text & Images by JON DUFRESNE

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I

n psychology, maturity is the ability to respond to the

environment in an appropriate manner.

Maturity also encompasses being aware of how to behave according to time and location and knowing how to act according to the circumstances.

Shooter maturity represents the experience and cognitive capacity to comprehend concepts depending on situations and given topics.

This is something I believe needs Shooter maturity is an overall breadth of experience and cognitive capacity.

to be addressed. Shooter maturity is something that separates the real professionals from the “it’s just a job” professionals. It is crucial for specialized teams but is too often overlooked or unaddressed. In many organizations there’s almost always at least one “professional” who shouldn’t be there. Not necessarily because he’s a bad person, but because he doesn’t

“Shooter maturity is that elusive quality that separates the true professional from the ‘it’s just a job’ professional.”

have “it.”

Now, the lack of “it” can be a variety of things—for one, it can be the basic inability to do the job. It can be as simple as a lack of physical or mental abilities (fitness/skill/comprehension), or it can also be a lack of the mindset necessary to be in a certain organization. This all boils down to

Many factors come in to play, like attention span, student expectations, and myriad other personal considerations.

shooter maturity. Again, lacking it does

LA-LA LAND STUDENT

shooter becomes, the less La-La Land-

not make you a bad person… but you

La-La Land students are, in the fewest

ish he will be. Pay attention and stay in

may want to get your head in the game

words, those who stare right through

the now.

or explore a different career path.

the instructor. They are there physically,

PID, teammates, tactics, and problem solving. This can be learned and cultivated but is rarely addressed in professional

THE CONSCIOUS COMPETENT

IDENTIFYING THE LACK OF

student is usually not paying much

The conscious competent student is

SHOOTER MATURITY

attention to instruction or what’s going

the one who will make a mistake during

LACK OF RECALL

The level of shooter maturity isn’t

on around him. Sometimes he may

a drill and, when instructed to fix that

Students who cannot recall their actions

indicated by how much a person

have heard everything, but he doesn’t

mistake, will focus so much on the fix

from the previous drill show a lack of

horses around in class or training.

comprehend the topic of instruction

that he makes a different mistake. Like

shooter maturity. This, like others, is a

It’s an overall breadth of experience

because he’s thinking about his grip,

plugging a leak in a boat with your finger

learned skill that can be difficult to acquire.

and cognitive capacity to understand

the distance to the target, and/or the

and seeing another sprout in a different

If you can’t quite recall what you did, what

concepts depending on the situation

last drill or exercise that may have

location. This is something we all suffer

were you really focused on? Understand

and comprehension of a given topic.

challenged him.

from to some extent, and mostly it’s

that this recall ability is one that many skip,

because we haven’t subconsciously

but in my opinion is very important for professionals and civilians alike.

The La-La Land student’s shortcoming

environments.

classes where I could always pick out

stems from inexperience and the inability

become competent in a certain skill. We

the lowest common denominator. It

to compartmentalize the current situation

just haven’t reached that maturity level.

isn’t the slowest, oldest, youngest, or

so he may perform the intended current

worst shooter, or even an out-of-shape

task. He’s the opposite of a special

first started driving you had to think

did in each drill or exercise. For example,

individual. It’s the one with the lowest

operations dude, who will put the entire

about and be conscious of everything at

if I asked you to recall how, not what, you

level of shooter maturity. How do we

world on the back burner and focus

once—being consciously competent. As

ate for your previous meal, could you recall

identify a lack of maturity? There are

on the current needs of the mission to

an experienced driver you can drive, eat,

how it was oriented on your plate or how

various ways, versions, and a possible

accomplish it and bring everyone home

comb your hair, change the music, bake

you took the first bite? That is recall. I’m

mixture of the below identifiers. These

safely. I’ve observed students drifting

a cake, and talk on the phone all at the

not saying you need to recall every little

are not the only identifiers, but they are

into La-La Land when the instructor

same time. You became subconsciously

detail in your life, but you must learn to do

the most common.

doesn’t properly engage the class in an

competent with your driving skills.

it for specific situations. In a team-based

interactive way (with relevant questions,

Think about driving a car; when you

Now apply the same concept to

What is recall? It’s your ability to play back and, with practice, visualize what you

CQB environment, there’s a need for recall.

The La-La Land Student

stories, hypotheticals, or jokes) to keep

shooting. If you can draw, present your

Now, can you imagine how hard this will

The Conscious Competent

them “in the now.”

firearm, remove a seat belt, get out

be if you don’t have the subconscious

of a car while being aware of muzzle

competent skills? (Like I said, they can be

into play, like attention span or student

direction, and engage targets accurately

mixed together.) Cultivating these skills

expectations, but the more mature the

in a subconsciously competent manner,

comes back to practice. This is something

Lack of Recall Misguided Range Theatrics

UN12 / Issue 010

then you can focus on other tasks like

but mentally they’re in La-La Land. This

I’ve both taught and participated in

100

It’s not necessary to recall every little detail in life, but it’s very necessary for specific situations.

There are many other factors that come

FEATURE

“To define shooter maturity, we must identify and begin at the source— ourselves. We must learn to build and develop ourselves as students.”

I force students to do in certain classes

they are trying to imitate someone (the

Why? For me, the answer is simple: It

to introduce them to the concepts and to

instructor or a favorite Instagrammer, for

makes me happy (my life goal). Those of

actively cultivate these skills, because as

instance) or they received poor or minimal

us who are willing to try and discover new

a teacher that’s what I’m here to do for

training from an instructor not using

or different things will help us progress as

students.

experience, data, and science to teach.

a species.

Real professionals don’t think about

more you’ll benefit from the information provided. Be there, not somewhere else, when it may benefit you greatly to be in the now and receive the information you need.

Once you have steps one through three

how they look while doing the needed

forces people to do so many things. It

Another sign of a person who lacks

tasks. They care about what it takes to

can be because of a personal experience,

side. Learning to learn. As a student I saw

shooter maturity is displaying misguided

accomplish the task. It all comes back to

someone retelling their experience, or

many of my peers fail due to not knowing

range theatrics. When you execute

something I often talk about in class—

even a natural inclination that pulls you in

how to learn. Sounds strange, but it can

theatrical movements on the range, they

being process-based, and not results-

a certain direction. It’s the kind of passion

be an issue. Some assume that as soon

could potentially have ramifications that

based, in executing your tasks. It’s like

that motivates you to rethink what you

as you hear the information you retain the

may be detrimental to the ultimate goal of

going through life thinking solely on your

know and how you feel about the topic

information. That isn’t how it works for

training. That goal is usually to become a

death (result) instead of focusing on the

at hand, but the passion needs to be

most of us. So I learned how to learn.

more skilled lethal human. For example,

journey (process) of life. Yeah, morbid.

backed with logic and factual data, not

the search and assessment after every

Don’t do it.

just emotion. Notice that most of this can

studying prior to class every day helped

down, it’s time to move to the physical

extend to many other subjects like self-

me figure out questions to ask and/or

awareness and self-improvement.

topics I needed clarification on. This put

One of the things I noticed in college was

in class search and assess in a fashion

DEVELOPING SHOOTER MATURITY

that made me feel like I needed a neck

How can we develop shooter maturity?

brace. They’d shoot, then whip their

We must identify and begin at the

now.” That is where the information is

thought they were coming to socialize. Just

heads back and forth so quickly that I

source—ourselves. We must learn to

being thrown at you. If you aren’t there,

as some students go to shooting courses

highly doubt they actually saw anything.

build and develop ourselves as students,

you can’t catch it. Staying more focused

and think it’s all fun-time gun-time. They

They’re not doing what is necessary,

students who hunt for knowledge like

on the task at hand and being in the now

miss out on so much and don’t even know

but rather engaging in subconscious

hungry wolves. Wolves that need and

must be practiced. Have you ever done

it because they spend their time differently.

misguided range theatrics.

want the information that will feed the

something that was scary? During that

Study what material you can prior to

hunger. This shouldn’t be a hard concept

activity were you daydreaming, or were

class and/or develop and write down the

of your surroundings or recapture the

to grasp; by reading these words

you focused on that specific scary thing

questions you need answered, especially

area visually, but do it in a manner that

you are already taking steps to gain

with all your attention? Exactly! You

after the first day to prepare for the second.

makes sense. Look, and process what

more knowledge. Step one is figuring

were focused and “in the now” because

Although maybe it isn’t cool or social

you’re looking at. Why do some shooters

out “why.” Why do you want more

self preservation forced you to be all-in.

media worthy, note-taking is an important

engage in theatrics? It can be because

information? Why do you need more?

The more teach yourself to activate

part of learning. Some don’t take notes

I’m not saying you should not be aware

UN12 / Issue 010

your attention in the same manner, the

MISGUIDED RANGE THEATRICS

drill or exercise—I’ve watched students

102

The second step is passion. Passion

Three steps to developing shooter maturity include figuring out why you need to develop, cultivating the passion, and learning to be “in the now.”

Step three is learning to be “in the

me a step ahead of other students who

FEATURE

or take such vague notes that they can’t figure out what they meant later on. We have all done it. Work on taking better notes. I’ve noticed that the more I organize my thoughts or notes the better my experience is in class. A simple way to take notes is to organize them by drill.

Write down the drill name, draw the drill out, and explain the drill with key notes and context associated with it. Doing this gives you a great platform to enhance your own practice. Don’t be lazy about note-taking. You’re there to learn, so learn. I’ve also realized that taking notes on paper, instead of digitally, keeps me from getting distracted by notifications, like someone asking me what kind of pants I wear (true story) or my mom asking if I’ll be coming by for dinner.

The next part is to put in the work. If it’s shooting, work on the stuff you suck at until you are okay, and then work on it some more. Then, when you think you’re great at it, work even harder! It’s a non-stop continuum. One practice method that has been dying off lately is dry practice. Not with a SIRT or Mantis or anything other than your empty firearm.

This is your time to connect with and understand your trigger. This is the time to watch your sights and see how the

“Your gun is like a person you know; do you know the person’s likes, dislikes, mannerisms, norms, attitudes?”

they act as you press the shot. It’s the time to perfect the pressures in your grip.

Be a part of your practice; don’t just make dry practice a part of watching TV or some other activity. It’s worth becoming acquainted with your blaster.

Something I have heard Kyle Defoor say: To progress, you may need to reassess the way you obtain and process information— learning how to learn.

“Do you really know your gun? Not just the things you have attached or round counts, but know when the trigger breaks or how it feels in recoil compared to others.” This spoke to me. Your gun is like a person you know. Do you know that person’s likes and dislikes, mannerisms, norms, attitude changes? If you don’t, do you really know the person? It made me really tune into my firearm, to the point that I can feel the spring in the mag decompressing as I’m shooting. I can see the direction of my brass flipping in the periphery of my sight picture. This is what starts to show maturity in shooting.

Now, knowing all this, it’s time for you to get to it. Go learn, train, and practice.

Work your mind and body. Don’t fail yourself by not doing what’s necessary to improve yourself. Also, note that this article can be applied to many different trades, hobbies, or jobs. I hope everyone continues to improve what they’ve already started. Now continue. [ UN12 ]

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UN12 / Issue 010

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105

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

B&T APC223 Optional factory parts allow the APC223 to fit your requirements

“Unlike other manufacturers that leave accessorization to the aftermarket, B&T has taken the lead with its own exhaustive line of parts and accessories.”

Text by JOHN SCOTT Images courtesy of B&T

&T came out of the gates hot when

also become a well-respected manufacturer

As recently as last year, the U.S. Army

the APC223 is more akin to the FN SCAR

polymer. The carbine is chambered in

a 16.6-inch-barrel model called the APC223

they finally decided to import their

of tactical weapon systems. They

chose to adopt B&T’s APC9-K for use by

16S. As with the SCAR, it’s meant to be a

5.56x45mm and can take .223 Remington

Sport. An APC223 Match variant made for

Swiss-made arms to the United States a

currently supply various weapon systems,

its personal security details. This high-

next-generation alternative to the venerable

ammunition without any issues.

accurate shots at longer ranges rounds

few years ago. While their pistol caliber

suppressors, and other accessories to

profile selection for B&T brought even more

AR-15 platform.

guns such as the APC9, TP9, and GHM9

police, special forces, and elite military units

attention to the APC9, which was already

The APC223 is a short-stroke, piston-

and law enforcement, the APC223 is also

produced to be ultra-reliable, accurate,

have really drawn the bulk of attention to

around the world. B&T’s design philosophy

a fan favorite platform. As exciting as the

driven carbine that features a close family

available for civilian purchase and use as

and precise, no matter which version you

their lineup, it’s worth pointing out that

allows the company to provide these

APC9 is, its big brother, the APC223, should

resemblance to the ACP9 in terms of

well. The semi-auto APC223 is offered

ultimately opt for.

B&T’s larger caliber offerings are just as

professionals with complete, mission-

not be overlooked.

features and control layout. It even looks

in a few different variations including a

outstanding.

adaptable, advanced weapon systems

Workload-wise, you can loosely think of

a lot like the ACP9, only bigger. The upper

12-inch-barrel version called the APC223

lineup, you’ll immediately notice that the

they can depend on under demanding

the APC9 as a modern MP5 and the APC223

receiver is primarily crafted out of aluminum

LB, a 10.4-inch-barrel version called the

company offers much in terms of factory

conditions.

as a modern AR-15. Functionality-wise,

and the lower receiver is made of a sturdy

APC223 SB, a sub-9-inch-barrel PDW, and

upgrades and options for its guns. Unlike

B

The company started out as a manufacturer of suppressors but has since

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UN12 / Issue 010

While initially designed for use by military

out the collection. Each of the models is

After taking a deeper dive into B&T’s

UN12mag.com

107

Stocks

Handguards & Barrel 01 APC223 PDW Barrel length: 222mm (8.74 in.)

01

02

Folding stock

Removable Picatinny rails

“The APC223 is offered in several versions, including 12-, 10-, 9-, and 16.6-inch-barrel versions. It’s like B&T’s APC9, only larger.”

02 Telescoping stock

many other firearms manufacturers that leave it up to aftermarket companies to fill

factory-produced brass catcher. detail reveals that the company has some

weapons, B&T has taken the lead with its

interesting pickings that we haven’t seen

own exhaustive line of parts and accessories

elsewhere. In particular, we eyed a funky-

for each of its guns.

looking stock that is made to clear a helmet

that we are all about firearms modification and customization, and it’s no different when

and an intriguing low-profile offset red dot optic mount.

We’re interested in getting our hands on

it comes to the APC223. What’s really nice

an APC223 to do some UN12 customization

about B&T is that the available optional parts

work on it. Considering B&T’s extensive line

are coming from the same engineers and

of optional factory parts, we’re curious if we

machinists that made the very gun that you

would even use any non-B&T parts on it.

intend to modify. Fit, finish, and functionality

Stay tuned for a future issue, where we’ll do

are assured.

our best to get one done up to share.

Each of the guns in B&T’s extensive line

not one or two but four different buttstocks, four foregrips, an entire collection of optic mounts, magazine options, and even a

108

UN12 / Issue 010

Aluminum handguard

APC223 MATCH Barrel length: 422mm (16.6 in.)

03 Folding/retractable stock

06

[ UN12 ]

05

has plenty of accessories available for it. For the APC223 alone you have the choice of

04

Examining B&T’s own upgraded parts in

the role of producing upgraded parts for their

As a UN12 reader, you undoubtedly know

03

: : B&T USA APC223 bt-arms.com

04 Folding/retractable helmet stock

SELECT FIRE The APC223 is made in both semiauto and select-fire versions.

GAS BLOCK Two-position adjustment for suppressed and nonsuppressed fire.

UN12mag.com

109

FEATURE

: : AR-15 to 5.7mm conversion kit : : Radial delayed blowback system : : Chambered in FN 5.7x28mm

Text by MARTIN ANDERS Images by JERRY TSAI

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

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UN12 / Issue 010

CMMG Mk57 UN12mag.com

111

FEATURE

W

hen it comes to personal defense weapons

The CA7, like any other AR-15, can easily be modified

(PDW), the prevailing wisdom is the shorter, the

by swapping out its complete upper receiver assembly.

better. Compactness affords greater maneuverability in

This was already something Mike knew he was going to

tight spaces, better concealment, and increased overall

do from the beginning. Weeks earlier he was eyeing (and

control. For these reasons and others, many gun owners

ordered) CMMG’s Banshee Mk57 AR conversion upper

have flocked to pick up an SBR or pistol to fulfill their PDW

receiver kit. He already owned an FN PS90 and has been

requirements.

enamored with the 5.7x28mm round that it fires for well

During this most recent pandemic-fueled gun buying spree, Mike M., owner of the AR pistol pictured here,

over a decade.

For one, he loves its flat-shooting and laser-accurate

quickly snapped up whatever he could get his hands

characteristics. On top of that, the reported stopping

on. In his case it was a Franklin Armory CA7, a complete

power with less over-penetration made it attractive for use

AR pistol that was created specifically for the California

in a home-defense role. One major thing going against it

market. It features a 5.56mm caliber 7.5-inch barrel, m-lok

in the commercial world is that 5.7 ammo is much more

compatible handguard, a foam-covered buffer tube, and,

expensive than other popular

for California compliance reasons, has no gas port in

calibers.

the barrel and no gas tube. The pistol is manually cycled

It’s fortunate, then, that

for each shot by pulling the charging handle. Yes—Mike

5.7x28mm has seen something of

thought this was lame, too, but it was all he could get

a renaissance the past few years,

his hands on at the time. Even though he doesn’t live in

with many new ammo and firearm

California, he picked it up knowing he could change it to

releases being centered on this

semi-auto configuration.

cartridge. CMMG, along with a

“5.7x28mm has seen a renaissance in recent years, with many new releases being centered on this cartridge.”

01

02

01 The Fortis muzzle brake was treated with a propane torch to alter its color. The front backup sight is a Magpul MBUS Pro.

02 As the primary targeting system, SIG Sauer’s popular Romeo5 red dot sits atop the CMMG upper.

112

UN12 / Issue 010

UN12mag.com

113

01

FEATURE

few other big-name manufacturers, has decided to offer factory-built carbines, PDWs, and pistols in 5.7. As a result of its newfound popularity, ammo prices have dipped slightly as more companies have begun producing FN’s once-proprietary round. Something else CMMG did was offer not only complete firearms chambered in this caliber, but conversion kits that allow you to

02

turn any AR-15 style gun into one that fires 5.7.

The first modification Mike made to his Franklin Armory CA7 was ejecting the “bolt-action” upper in favor of the CMMG Banshee 200 Mk57 upper group kit. This “drop-in” upper comes with a 5.7mm bolt carrier group and easily takes the place of the CA7’s upper receiver.

This restored the semi-auto

01 A Knights Armament folding rear sight sits aft of the SIG red dot. The custom color scheme was applied by the owner using spray paint.

02

functionality the pistol had originally

The CMMG upper conversion kit includes two 40-round magazines for the 5.7mm ammo.

lacked.

camouflage paint scheme The CMMG Banshee 200 Mk57 upper group kit comes

to match the environs

with a medium-taper, 416 stainless steel, 8-inch-long barrel

where he lives. After

rifled in a 1:9 twist rate. The barrel sits in a forged 7075-T6

painting the CMMG upper

aluminum M4-type upper and is shrouded within a 7-inch

with a few different shades

CMMG RML7 m-lok compatible handguard. As with other

of Rustoleum, he swapped

pistol-caliber uppers, the CMMG unit uses a blowback

out a few parts and added a

operating system that CMMG calls Radial Delayed

few others to suit his needs.

Blowback. It’s capable of reliably and smoothly sending

We noticed that he changed out

5.7x28mm rounds down the pipe without fail. A specific

the Mil-Spec dust cover for a billet model

buffer or spring combination is not needed to run the 5.7

by Strike Industries called the Ultimate Dust

setup, so Mike was able to use the one that came with the

Cover (UDC). He added RailScales handguard covers

pictured PDW-style brace. We’ll address that upgrade in

to the m-lok interfaces at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions.

detail a little later on.

These ultra-grippy covers are machined out of durable G10

The CMMG conversion kit also came with two dedicated

an aluminum QD sling mount by Strike Industries called the

taller than a typical 30-round 5.56mm magazine, but also

Link AQD. This anti-rotation mount has a built-in 30-degree

hold ten more rounds each. They fit into any USGI-spec AR-15 lower receiver. The magazine construction feels solid and Mike reported no issues loading them or getting them to function reliably.

For an additional C-note, CMMG offers its upper receiver assemblies factory Cerakoted in ten different shades, including colors like Midnight Bronze, Bazooka Green, and even Storm Trooper White. Mike chose to leave his uncoated since he wanted to rattle-can a simple

114

in RailScales’ honeycomb pattern. On the left side he added

40-round 5.7 magazines. The magazines are about an inch

UN12 / Issue 010

“The CMMG system uses what they call Radial Delayed Blowback for smooth, reliable functioning.”

angle that allows the sling to cant away from the handguard.

Slung under the rail at the 6 o’clock position is a Strike Industries Link Anchor polymer hand stop. Mike says with such a short barrel it’s helpful and safer to have a tactile reminder of where to place his hand without having to look.

Due to the 5.7’s low recoil characteristics, he admits that swapping out the stock muzzle brake for one made by Fortis was more about style than performance. He bought a silvercolored brake and held it under a propane torch to give it the

UN12mag.com

115

FEATURE

champagne tone that somehow looks just right on this gun.

For targeting help, Mike went with a SIG Sauer Romeo5 red dot, scoring his for well under 200 bucks with the mount. It’s bright enough even

Pressing

on the sunniest days and has a quick circle-

that button,

dot reticle that he just loves. A folding Magpul

located under the

MBUS Pro iron sight up front and a Knights

buffer tube, instantly deploys

Armament Co. 200-600m Folding Micro Rear

the brace to its extended position.

Sight back the optic up.

The PDW Stabilizer comes with a more

Mike chose more than a few parts from Strike

compact PDW-sized buffer and a special flat-

Industries for the lower receiver, like Strike’s Ambi Mag

wire spring that increases bolt load despite its shorter

Release and XBC Extended Bolt Catch. To make the

dimensions. Mike mentioned that this combination works

lower fully ambidextrous, he swapped out the standard

well with the CMMG upper.

safety lever for a Strike Industries Flip Switch. He also

All in all, equipped with the CMMG Banshee 200 Mk57

added a Strike Industries magazine release button,

upper, this Franklin Armory AR pistol is simple, effective,

15-degree pistol grip, and BCMgunfighter trigger guard.

and fun to shoot. And at just under 24 inches in its shortest

Probably the most eye-catching piece on the lower

form, it certainly is a compact weapon. All this talk about

half of Mike’s PDW pistol is the Strike Industries PDW

5.7 has us itching to go shoot some ourselves. To learn

Stabilizer. It helps maintain the AR’s ultra-compact size

more about this unique caliber, turn the page.

but also rapidly deploys with the touch of a button.

[ UN12 ]

01 02 01 The Strike Industries PDW Stabilizer rapidly deploys with the literal touch of a button.

01

MEET YOUR NEWEST ADDICTION UN12: The biggest and freshest firearms magazine focuses on customization and individuality.

Dealers wanted: UN12 is a premium and limited magazine that is not available on newsstands. It is only available online and through specialty shops like yours.

Join up as a UN12 retailer and we’ll drive customers to you. If you would like to carry UN12, contact us at retailer@un12mag.com today.

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UN12 / Issue 010

UN12

E X P L O D E D VIEW

CMMG Banshee 200 Mk57/Franklin Armory CA7 Specifications Caliber: FN 5.7x28mm Overall Length: 23.75 in.

Weight Unloaded: 5 lbs, 5 oz.

Upper Receiver: CMMG Banshee 200 Mk57 Lower Receiver: Franklin Armory CA7 Barrel: CMMG 5.7x28mm, 8”, 1:9 twist, medium-taper 416SS Coating: Spray paint by owner

Featured Accessories Optic: SIG Sauer Romeo5 Handguard: CMMG RML7 m-lok Pistol Stabilizer: Strike Industries PDW Stabilizer

FN 5.7x28mm 9mm Parabellum’s Would-Be Replacement I

Parts & Accessories: SI Ultimate Dust Cover, RailScales Handguard Covers, SI Link AQD Mount, SI Link Anchor, Fortis Muzzle Brake, Magpul MBUS Pro, Knights Armament Co. 200-600m Folding Micro Rear Sight, SI Ambi Mag Release, SI XBC Extended Bolt Catch, SI Flip Switch, SI Magazine Release Button, SI 15-degree Pistol Grip, BCMgunfighter Trigger Guard

ntroduced in the early 1990s, FN Herstal’s FN 5.7×28mm caliber ammunition was created in response to a NATO request for

a cartridge aimed at improving upon and replacing the ever-popular 9x19mm Parabellum.

The new round would have increased range, improved accuracy,

01

and enhanced terminal performance over the aged, but ubiquitous,

From left to right, FN 5.7x28mm seen in comparison to .300 AAC Blackout and 5.56x45mm NATO.

characteristics. With these requirements in mind, FN produced its

9mm. This new round was also to have body-armor-penetrating proprietary 5.7x28mm, as well as the first two firearms that fed on it—FN’s P90 PDW and Five-seven pistol.

The new cartridge would prove to be quite effective during NATO testing and has since been adopted by military and police in more than 40 nations. It is a physically small round that carries only two-thirds the weight of a typical 9mm cartridge. This means more ammo can be carried in the same space or at the same weight

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

threshold. Non-commercial versions of the ammunition were

About the Owner

proven able to penetrate a NATO CRISAT or Level IIIA Kevlar

Name: Mike M.

vests at 200 meters.

After a successful evaluation by NATO in many categories, the 5.7mm round was to be standardized for use by NATO

Occupation: Customer service Special Thanks: Jenny, Cooper, Rod

countries and eventually supersede 9mm Parabellum.

Unfortunately for FN—but fortunately for 9mm fans—the NATO delegation from Germany pushed for a rival round, Heckler & Koch’s HK 4.6×30mm, instead, and rejected the standardization of FN’s 5.7mm. As a result, both FN’s 5.7mm and HK’s 4.6mm cartridges are in use by various NATO members and 9mm lives on to fight another day.

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UN12 / Issue 010

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PRODUCT REVIEW

Tourniquet Pouches Text & Images by CHARLES “CHIP” LASKY

Y

ou’ve all seen them attached to operators’ plate carriers and chest rigs for decades.

Tons of attachment methods have been designed and sold to the DOD, law enforcement agencies, and civilians alike. Specialty elastic webbing weaved through PALS loops, dangler loops, purpose-built pouches, and even rubber bands from office supply stores have been used to carry these things on and off the battlefield. I am talking, of course, about tourniquets.

If your job requires you to go into harm’s way, then you better be carrying tourniquets on your person (notice the plural). Tourniquets save lives, but are not always given the respect they deserve.

They’re not as sexy as munitions and electronic

UN12 / Issue 010

the Combat Application Tourniquet (C-A-T) and Special Operations Forces Tactical Tourniquet (SOFTT). I advocate for carrying multiple tourniquets within ready access. I personally carry four C-A-Ts between my plate carrier and belt kit.

Why do I carry multiple tourniquets? I carry four on my person because I have four limbs. I may also need to put more than one tourniquet on a single limb if the wound is severe enough (such as limb loss). The device will need to compress through a lot more tissue if it is present, and one TQ may not suffice on a single limb. In order for a TQ to be effective, it needs to be reachable with either hand. Having tried all sorts of tourniquet

consciousness. At that point, death is imminent.

holders over the years, I finally found JTACtical

suddenly becomes the most important thing in

All of this can happen in five minutes or less

Solutions, which has similar placement ideas to

the world.

unless the bleeding is stopped.

mine for primary tourniquets.

An average adult male has roughly 5-6 liters of

I like to keep one/each C-A-T on either side of

to extremities in the event of extreme wounds

blood in his body. An average adult female has

my plate carrier cummerbund flap or placard. This

up to and including loss of limb. These types of

roughly 4-5 liters. Hemorrhagic shock occurs

gives me immediate access with either hand. I

wounds include laceration or severing of an artery

when 20% of that blood is lost. Exsanguination

keep a third attached to the dangler pouch below

that will cause rapid blood loss (exsanguination),

and death occur when 40% is lost. You can also

the cummerbund and a fourth in my IFAK. The two

potentially resulting in death. While a tourniquet

bleed out from internal injuries without seeing

on either side of my cummerbund have always

is not a permanent fix for these kinds of injuries, it

a single drop of blood outside the body, but a

presented the biggest challenges. They are my

will help to clamp off the blood flow and stabilize

tourniquet is only effective on limbs (unfortunate,

primary TQs and the most exposed.

a patient in the field until he can be evacuated to a

because I’ve run into people who certainly could

surgical center.

have benefited from one around the neck).

During a massive arterial bleed a patient

120

warfighter and law enforcement professional are

gadgets. But when you need one, a tourniquet

A tourniquet is a device for stopping blood flow

JTACtical Solutions

“A tourniquet will only save your life if it’s there when you need it and it is in 100% serviceable condition.

So keep it in a pouch.”

A tourniquet works by placing sufficient

The things that will keep you alive in a gunfight are ammo, radio, and tourniquets. These three things need to be readily accessible on the front of

will begin feeling dizzy and fatigued, possibly

pressure on a torn or severed artery in an

your person (if you are an assaulter). The flanking

nauseous, and begin to sweat as hemorrhagic

extremity so that it is effectively clamped off and

position of TQs on either side of the cummerbund

shock sets in. As blood loss continues, patients

no more blood can be lost. Ideally, you want to

flap is the best position in my opinion. But not

will begin to drain of color, feel cold/clammy,

ensure the tourniquet clamps the damaged artery

all job-dictated layouts and plate carrier designs

experience rapid heart rate and weak pulse,

against a hard surface such as between the bone

allow for this. JTACtical Solutions recognized this

display rapid/shallow breathing, confusion, and

and the tourniquet’s windlass.

and developed a dual tourniquet pouch solution

an inability to move, and will eventually lose

The two most common tourniquets for the

that is incredibly innovative.

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121

Product Review: JACTactical Solutions

03

UN0012 / UNITY TACTICAL FAST MOUNTS —

PLACEMENT A variety of carry options are available, including clipping to PALS webbing, a MOLLE pouch for attaching to plate carriers, belts, and packs, a “tuckable” version that can mount with another pouch, and Swift Clip and MultiMount versions.

01 ACCESSIBILITY JTACtical Solutions pouches feature a typical large Velcro flap closure with a red tab to identify them as medical kit. They are built to be easily accessible from all positions, even if the user is under physical duress.

02 CONSTRUCTION

JTACtical Solutions offers a standard MOLLE-style tourniquet pouch that attaches to PALS webbing with

plate carrier with elastic or rubber bands may look

a MALICE clip. I use one/each on either side of the

gangster, it’s actually the worst possible way to carry

cummerbund flap on my plate carrier. The pouches

them. Why?

feature a typical large Velcro flap closure with a red

1. Tourniquets will save your life, but only if they are

tab to denote medical kit. They are easy to access

there when you need them. Rubber bands quickly

in all positions and would be easy to function under

become brittle and break when exposed to UV

stress of rapid blood loss.

light, salt, and abrasion. Elastic and shock cord wear out under constant stretch as well.

The MOLLE versions can be attached to plate from the pouch. Smooth extraction is a must. If you

extremely dynamic activity. If you’re fast roping,

have suffered a traumatic wound, your world will be

low crawling, sliding down a rooftop or mountain,

rocked. As you rapidly approach hemorrhagic shock,

or something else, you’re going to lose kit that’s not secured properly.

3. Tourniquets are UV-sensitive and will degrade

when you need it, it’s suddenly the most important

style chest rigs like the Spiritus Systems Micro Fight.

thing in the world. The JTACtical Solutions tourniquet

This increases the versatility tenfold and allows

pouches are some of the most innovate designs that

users to carry more tourniquets. Sure, it can also be

ensure life-saving gear is within reach and ready to go

used with standard plate carrier cummerbunds, but

when needed.

the placard is really where the Swift Clip Tourniquet

[ UN12 ]

Pouch shines.

Another place where I found the Swift Clip and Tuckable Tourniquet Pouches to really help is with

carriers, belts, and packs. The TQ is easily extracted

2. Rubber bands and straps are not secure during

pouches to be attached directly to popular placard-

First Spear Tubes style plate carriers. Tubes are a Here is where things get even more interesting.

great QD closure method for PCs, but they happen

JTACtical Solutions makes some tourniquet pouches

banger pouches, or frag pouches. The Tuckable

to be located directly at the plate bag/cummerbund

that give you placard wing placement without taking

Tourniquet Pouch allows two mission-critical

junction. This makes certain gear placement difficult.

JTACtical Solutions

your loss of strength, motor skills, and cognitive

up any PALS space. The first version, the Tuckable

pouches for mission-critical items to, for all intents

But the wing placement of tourniquets is almost

URL: jtacticalsolutions.com

capacity will keep you from performing the simplest

Tourniquet Pouch, connects two pouches with two

and purposes, occupy the same space. The pouch

impossible. These tourniquet pouches remedy that.

of tasks. I’ve been there before. Tourniquets have

elastic straps. These can be sandwiched between

will have a little bit of movement since it is not “hard

with prolonged direct exposure. This will lower the

buckles, clamps, and a windlass. All these parts want

a Velcro placard or woven through MOLLE pouch

mounted” to the cummerbund, but I found that there’s

Tourniquet Pouch. This version features Velcro One-

material’s tensile strength, causing it to not hold

to hang up and tangle on rubber bands, elastic straps,

straps directly onto a cummerbund front flap. Either

no more movement than a tourniquet mounted with

Wrap straps on the back for attaching directly to a

enough pressure or even to snap.

and shock cord. Don’t count on simply muscling the

method is 100% secure. But the real magic is that it

the old rubber band or elastic method.

sling, seatbelt, backpack strap, or almost anything

A tourniquet will only save your life if it is there when

TQ out. The JTACtical Solutions pouches feature

allows the pouches to rest over any other pouch or

The other unconventional attachment method is

you need it and in 100% serviceable condition. So

full-length smooth elastic sides and nylon front/back

sheath that’s mounted on the cummerbund, next to

their Swift Clip Tourniquet Pouch Set. The Swift Clips

keep them in pouches.

construction. There’s nothing to snag.

the flap. This freedom means the tourniquet pouches

are actually double-sided Velcro flaps that allow the

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UN12 / Issue 010

: : For more information:

will not interfere with radio pouches, knife sheaths,

Last, JTACtical Solutions offers a Multi-Mount

else. It’s a perfect companion to a home defense gun sling or the overhead handles in a vehicle.

Medical kit is not nearly as sexy as munitions. But

UN12

Let’s talk about the obvious first—these are tourniquet pouches. While strapping your TQ to your

“The tourniquet is easily extracted from the JTAC pouch. There’s nothing to snag, and a variety of attachment options are available.”

Each tourniquet pouch features full-length smooth elastic sides and nylon front and back construction.

Critically, there’s nothing to snag the TQ on extraction.

UN12mag.com

123

PRODUCT REVIEW

.45 Cal Pistol/Carbine Suppressor Text by DAVID THORSON Images by TRACERX

S

uppressor shopping can be a daunting task as there are so many options

available. In many cases, right now there’s a nearly one-year wait to receive the tax stamp back from the ATF— and you want to make sure that time does not go to waste. There would be nothing worse than buyer’s remorse with your purchase, and a suppressor is not exactly something you can return after you get your tax stamp.

Back in 2011, when I was in the market for my first suppressor, I spent hours delving into forums and articles thinking of just purchasing one dedicated for a 9mm pistol. However, what I didn’t entirely realize back then was that buying one that size limited its use on larger

“Having the ability to adjust the suppressor for nearly any other gun you own, including rifles chambered up to .300 Win Mag, is a huge selling point.”

caliber guns. You don’t only have to use a .45

best-looking out there, it’s also modular. Unlike

suppressor on a .45 gun, but the downside is

early suppressors where you’re stuck with one

it’s a large .45 can and, back then, was only

length, this one, while tuned for .45 ACP, allows

usable on pistols and not rated for any rifle

you to subtract up to three baffle segments to

calibers.

produce four different overall lengths—say, if

Enter the Torrent Orthrus .45, the suppressor I wish had been available a long time ago.

It’s the ultimate suppressor either for a first

you don’t need as much noise suppression with the various other calibers it is rated for.

While removing or adding baffle segments

purchase or if you’re just looking to add to your

you’ll notice how incredibly smooth the

collection. However, having the option to swap

threading is, which is uncommon when mating

it to nearly any other gun you own, including

two titanium surfaces. Normally, when you

rifles chambered up to .300 Win Mag, is a huge

thread Ti to Ti, it tends to feel very gritty and

selling point.

can be prone to “sticking.” Torrent clearly

The beauty of the Orthrus .45 and possibly

spends extra time fine-tuning the fit and finish

its most notable feature is the groundbreaking

to ensure the components thread together

design. It is not only (in my opinion) one of the

smoothly. You can tell by examining the small

TORRENT ORTHRUS 124

UN12 / Issue 010

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125

Product Review: Torrent Orthrus .45 Cal Pistol/Carbine Suppressor

01 END CAP

TORRE

UN0012 / ADM UIC MOD2 —

02

MODULAR BAFFLE SECTION

03

MODULAR BAFFLE SECTION (2 CONNECTED TOGETHER)

04

BAFFLE CORE

05

BLAST BAFFLE

06

Caliber: .45 ACP Color Options: Graphite Black Color Finish: High-temperature Cerakote Material: Titanium 6Al-4V (Grade 5)

details that the company makes quality control

point of impact. It also does not require

Length: 5.375” short; 7.5” long; modular

a top priority. Note that while the suppressor

teardown for cleaning unless you’re going to

Diameter: 1.47”

gives you the capability of adding baffle

change the piston. Finally, the quick-detach

segments for additional suppression from

mount is the lowest profile with a secondary

Weight: 7.0 oz. short, 10.8 oz. long (no mount); each baffle segment = 1.3 oz. / 0.69”

Torrent’s X Series line of suppressors, it is

lock on the market to date.

against federal law to add more baffles than the suppressor was originally purchased with.

An additional feature you won’t immediately

The booster is also threaded to an industry standard 1.375-24 TPI, so you can employ other popular mounting systems such as the Dead

see from the outside, but will definitely notice

Air Key-MO, SilencerCo. ASR, or JMac RRD-2C

when you use it, is the unique booster design

X37. If you already have any of these, they are

using a captured spring that’s easily removed

compatible with the Orthrus.

for quick change-out and indexing to adjust

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126

UN12 / Issue 010

End Cap Weight: 0.6 oz.

Full Auto Rating: Responsible *Booster Included Choose: Piston Thread Pitch: ½ x28, .578×28 , M16x1 LH or 13.5 x 1 LH Compatible Mounts: Torrent Booster threaded for ½ x28 TPI, QD Mount & Hideout Muzzle Device Set (sold separately): 1/2x 28, 5/8 x 24, .578 x 28 , M16x1 LH or 13.5 x 1 LH , 14×1 LH, any industry standard 1.375”24 TPI , Dead Air Key-MO, SilencerCo. ASR, JMac RRD-2C X37

ABOUT TORRENT SUPPRESSORS

: : For more information:

Torrent Suppressors is a family-owned business. Trey Trosclair is the original founder of Tactical Arms of Texas, which in turn is the parent company for Torrent Suppressors. The

Torrent Suppressors

operation is headquartered in Stafford, Texas, about a five-minute drive outside the Houston

URL: torrentsuppressors.com

city limits. Tactical Arms of Texas has been in business since 2011 and has been developing and manufacturing suppressors since 2013. The Orthrus .45 is available exclusively at Rainier Arms (rainierarms.com). View the full lineup of Torrent Suppressors on the company website.

UN12

BOOSTER ASSEMBLY

Specs

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127

FEATURE

Customization : : Based on a TOPS Knives Baja 4.5 Reserve Edition : : Customized by the owner : : 9.25-inch overall length

Personalized Knife Text by CHRIS LEE Images by MICHAEL GREY

W

hy are we so obsessed with knives?

implement that was more substantial and

That’s an easy question to answer.

robust to meet his needs, but carrying an

Not only do they provide utility, defense,

axe or hatchet would add too much weight

and survival capabilities, they can be artistic

to his pack. Ounces equal pain after all,

expressions, too, and frankly they’re fun to

especially when you’re humping all your camp

collect. Here, we get a chance to examine the

equipment on your back.

tastefully customized knife of Chase E. Chase is an avid knife guy who always

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UN12 / Issue 010

After getting the chance to use a friend’s TOPS Fieldcraft BOB knife, he decided that

carries a folder as a part of his EDC. Recently,

he needed a fixed blade designed for camp

while on a hiking/camping trip, he realized

and survival. He liked the 4.5-inch size of the

folders do not always make the best camp

Fieldcraft BOB but wasn’t too keen on the

knives. He found that he wanted an edged

Scandi grind or how thick the blade was for

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129

Customization: Knives

Specs

02

PERSONALIZED TOPS KNIVES BAJA 4.5 RESERVE EDITION

Paracord lanyard loops were added to both the blade and the ferro rod.

Owner: Chase E. Occupation: Transportation coordinator Special Thanks: To my camping crew—Mike, Dan, Karl, Emiko, Savannah—and to TOPS Knives for making a great blade

01

TOPS Knives

Grooves and a decorative screw were added to the included ferro rod’s grip end.

Model: Baja 4.5 Reserve Edition MSRP: $180 URL: topsknives.com Designer: Leo Espinoza

01

02

The “black traction” coating is a TOPS factory finish that both looks great and enhances corrosion resistance.

The 4.88-inch blade is just 5/32 of an inch at its thickest for improved maneuverability during delicate cutting tasks.

04 The spine has been sanded to a crisp 90 degrees with sharper edges for improved ferro rod striking.

03 A groove has been machined into the pommel for ferro rod striking while the knife is sheathed.

03 The standard screws were replaced with flush titanium flatheads.

food prep. He perused TOPS’s other offerings and found

He went ahead and sanded it down so that it now is a

blade is still sheathed. He went ahead and machined

a knife that was even more to his liking.

crisp 90 degrees. The transitions between the spine and

the pommel of his Baja in a similar way. Along with the

the blade’s face now feature sharpened edges for more

artistry of it, little functional details like this are what

efficient ferro rod striking.

make customized knives so appealing.

Chase chose the Baja 4.5 Reserve Edition for

“Along with making functional modifications, it’s adding the small artistic details that makes knife customization so appealing.”

its thinner 5/32-inch-thick stock and the standard secondary bevel edge of a style he’s more accustomed

Baja 4.5 Reserve Edition

head screws that held the scales on. He felt that the

magic on the Baja 4.5’s included ferro rod. To customize

that the black traction coating it comes finished in would

screws protruded just enough for him to feel them when

the rod, he cut grooves into the handle for added grip

reduce the chance of rust.

gripping the knife, and he decided he wanted them to

and installed a machined screw on the end for a little bit

be completely flush instead. So he replaced them with

of added style. Matching paracord was tied to both the

jimping on its spine and finger guard for enhanced grip

titanium flathead screws. He also anodized the new

knife and ferro rod as a final touch.

during hard use or in slippery conditions. It is equipped

screws in a shade of FDE brown to match the color

with tan canvas Micarta scales and includes a leather

scheme of the scales and sheath. He admits this was

4.5 Reserve Edition looks direct from the factory, you’ll

sheath and ferro rod.

more for aesthetics than for function, but it’s little artistic

see that Chase didn’t deviate much from the original

details like this that he enjoys most.

aesthetics. He made incremental modifications to suit

The knife’s blade is 4.88 inches long and comes with

He had no intention of modifying the knife initially. But once he had the blade in hand, he felt that there were

If you’re familiar with the way the TOPS Knives Baja

The final modification came from an idea that was

his camping and hiking needs. Since modifying the knife

a few things he could change to make it perfect. That’s

imported from another TOPS knife. Chase thought the

he has taken it on an inaugural hike-and-camp trip, and

when we went to work to lightly customize it.

scraper on the pommel of the TOPS Fieldcraft BOB

he proudly reports that it’s shaping up to be just the tool

was ingenious. This is a portion of the pommel that’s

he was looking for.

gouged out so it allows one to strike a ferro rod while the

[ UN12 ]

not seem sharp enough to strike the included ferro rod.

UN12 / Issue 010

Leaving nothing untouched, Chase also worked a little

to. Since the blade is made of 1095 steel, he also felt

Chase told us he thought the black-coated spine did

130

The second thing Chase did was address the round-

UN12mag.com

131

DEPT.

Competition & Training

Shoot This Drill The Praetorian Alpha Drill Text by JEFF COTTO Illustrations by CHARLES “CHIP” LASKY

S

132

UN12 / Issue 010

hooting practice and performing live-fire drills are solid ways to

The Praetorian Drill series was

This specific drill, Praetorian Alpha,

developed for the U.S. Space Force

was developed for the Space Force

get yourself into a rhythm, whether

Force Protection (ForcePro) personnel.

ForcePro Agents (FPAs) at common

you’re looking for improved defensive

These men and women are tasked

access points. At these CACs, FPAs are

reaction time or to cut down competition

with guarding the entire Space Force

tasked with authorizing legal documents

shooting times. This issue’s drill comes

base to include CACs—common

for entry and assessing personnel and

from the training regimen for our nation’s

access points—specialized equipment,

vehicles for potential threats to the

latest military branch, the United States

classified facilities, the command team,

command team, classified equipment,

Space Force.

and more.

and friendly personnel. Visitors wishing

UN12mag.com

133

Competition & Training

Praetorian Alpha (Rifle/Pistol Transition Drill)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Jeff Cotto served eight years and nine combat deployments with the U.S. Army’s 1st Ranger Battalion in support

Range:

Target:

Start position:

Rounds:

Par Time:

3 yards

2x IPSC target (advanced: 8.5×11 paper)

- Rifle slung in front - Pistol holstered, hands by side

8 rounds - 2 rifle - 6 pistol * Variation - 3 rifle / 5 pistol

4 seconds

to gain access to the facility will

security forces as a way to train

need to provide credentials at CACs

fundamentals with limited time.

and will often be in close proximity

Marksmanship at speed, target

to the FPAs. The challenges created

transitions, draws, and reloads are

by extreme close quarters revolve

the key the fundamentals in this

around target discrimination and

drill.

of the Global War On Terrorism. Between Iraq and Afghanistan he served as a Gustav gunner, SAW gunner, rifle team leader, sniper team leader, sniper section leader, and rifle squad leader. Following his service he became the training manager for the Afghan Special Operations (Khaté Khas) training cycle for mission readiness. He was then selected and assigned to perform the duties of a close protection officer for the United States clandestine services. Today Cotto runs BAT Defense, a training and security company serving military, law enforcement, civilians, and approved foreign clients. Further information can be found at batdefense.com.

speed of effective engagement.

Shorter distances call for faster speeds because accuracy

1. Shooter’s hands are by his/her sides.

thresholds are substantially larger.

2. Shooter recognizes threat.

The Praetorian Drill series was

3. Shooter raises rifle and engages

designed to build proper neural pathways for reacting to instant lifeor-death, close-quarters situations.

The drill itself will assess and

the initial threat with two rounds.

4. Shooter transitions to secondary threat, begins to engage the threat, shooter’s rifle

establish a baseline level of

malfunctions (dummy round

combat effectiveness for each

or stop stick; dummy round

ForcePro agent by training on fundamentals with limited time. The Praetorian Drill series includes live-fire, force-on-target, and UTM-driven force-on-force iterations. Drawing a sidearm from a holster, marksmanship at speed,

preferred).

5. Shooter transitions to pistol and engages the secondary threat with four rounds.

6. Shooter transitions to primary threat and engages with two rounds (time stops, 4 seconds).

target transitions, and reloading

7. Shooter assesses the scene.

the weapon systems are the key

8. Shooter holsters pistol.

fundamentals in this drill.

9. Shooter works on getting the rifle

Whether you’re a force protection agent, a law enforcement officer, or

back on line.

10. ENDEX

+

X

a civilian, the Praetorian Alpha drill will help you identify threats versus

Target sizes vary depending on

non-threats (target discrimination),

skill level. IPSC targets, 8.5 x 11”

reactive target engagements

paper sheets, or 4×6” cards can be

at a high rate of speed, target

used as targets. The 4x6” version is

transitions, and overall situational

obviously significantly more difficult.

awareness.

All shots must be fired before the

This Praetorian Drill series was developed for the Space Force

134

UN12 / Issue 010

end of the par time. Shots fired after par count as misses.

UN12mag.com

135

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

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

@battlearms

@bptactical

@dangerclosearmament

@dark_alliance_customs

@fire4effectllc

@nevadacerakote

@republicrifle

Accu-Tac PC-5 bipod

INSTA-10

Text by JOHN SCOTT Images by MICHAEL GREY

itting targets at distance requires stability in

height adjustability and stability to an AR and

not only the shooter’s aim but in the weapon

other precision platforms. This bipod is designed

customized with optional fittings that include claw,

system as well. It’s all fine and dandy when you’re

to provide positional versatility thanks to its four

spike, and sled-style attachments. We kept the

at a static range shooting on dedicated, rock-solid

individual swinging leg positions and nine notch

rubber feet, which sat on the rocks confidently.

shooting benches. Your rifle and body positioning

height options. The PC-5 really stands out thanks

can be situated so that they are as immovable

to its ability to cant and pan, both of which can be

so the rifle could be repositioned by swinging the

as possible. But how does one achieve a similar

individually locked and secured with adjustable

rear. The weight of the bipod, a respectable 28.8

level of stability on uneven terrain? What if you are

locking levers.

ounces, helped anchor the front end, which gave

shooting multiple targets or even a moving target on

“A bipod will help stabilize your rifle, but not all will compensate for uneven surfaces or allow you to pan.”

it a solid feeling while positioned on the rocks,

H

top of that?

A solid bipod has been the shooter’s friend since its invention. Two legs that prop up and stabilize the front end of your rifle is a real advantage when trying for accurate shots. As seemingly simple as these accessories seem to be, it’s important to note that not all bipods serve the same purpose. All quality bipods will help you stabilize your rifle, but not all of them will allow you to compensate for uneven surfaces or let you to pan the gun to hit multiple targets across the horizon.

We quickly attached the bipod’s included QD

The bipod, which comes with rubber feet, can be

We loosened the cant and pan adjustment levers

even at uneven heights. We took shots at two steel targets, one just short of 500 yards at the 11 o’clock position and the other at 350 yards at 12 o’clock.

Swinging between the targets felt smooth and solid thanks to the heft and smoothness of the PC-5, even with its legs canted to compensate for the uneven surface.

a pan and cant capable bipod could be just

Picatinny rail mount to the underside of our 17-inch-

the accessory you need. Whether you’re target

barreled AR-15 and then planted it on a ledge

shooting for fun, competing, or out hunting, the

with Accu-Tac’s PC-5 bipod to see just how the PC-

of rocks, adapting the PC-5’s adjustable legs to

Accu-Tac PC-5 bipod is worth consideration.

series, or Pan and Cant bipods, perform on uneven,

conform to the uneven surface. Its ratcheted leg

[ UN12 ]

rugged terrain. Shooters will recognize Accu-Tac

extension design allows it to quickly adjust to nine

as a manufacturer of precision shooting products

different heights without having to align each leg

including bipods and scope rings. The company

equally. Adjusting the bipod was a cinch thanks to

prides itself on designing and manufacturing its

its independent spring-loaded legs. Leg position

We recently spent time at an unimproved range

products in the USA. The PC-5 bipod was designed to provide

136

UN12 / Issue 010

can be deployed to 90° or 45°, locking securely into

Popular IG tags to follow:

If you find yourself shooting out in the open range, without a solid base or on uneven terrain,

: : For more info: Accu-Tac PC-5 MSRP: $397 URL: accu-tac.com

#pewpew #gunsofinstagram

@tracerxphoto

Win glory for yourself and your collection and gain

#pewpewlife

hordes of IG followers. Tag

#gunporn

if you’d like a chance for your

#gunfanatics

future issue of UN12.

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

four positions through a 180° arc.

UN12mag.com

137

Est. July 4th, 2009

BATTLEARMS

RETAIL DIRECTORY

Celebrating 10 Years of Excellence

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.

ONLINE RETAILERS

CA

CO

NH

WA

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

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

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 Antioch, CA 94509 Tel: (925) 237-2560 URL: evike.com

LA

Wicked Weaponry 21 Londonderry Turnpike Hooksett, NH 03106 Tel: (603) 232-0621 URL: wickedweaponryusa.com

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

TX

Pantel Tactical 16926 116th Ave SE Renton, WA 98058 Tel: (425) 282-4186 URL: panteltactical.com

Canadian Tactical Cowboy Supplies URL: ctcsupplies.ca

Rainier Arms 2504 Auburn Way N. Auburn, WA 98002 Tel: (253) 218-2999 URL: rainierarms.com

DTS-Armory Tel: (+31) 475-202-153 URL: dts-armory.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

URL: dangerclosearmament.com

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

MI Firingline Guns 33000 Ford Road Westland, MI 48185 Tel: (734) 326-7320 URL: firinglineguns.com

ND Spartan Firearms 7101 Hwy 2 & 52 W. Minot, ND 58703 Tel: (701) 838-GUNS URL: spartanfirearms.us

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

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

Rehv Arms 27623 Covington Way SE #2 Covington, WA 98042 Tel: (253) 630-5900 URL: rehvarms.com Wade’s Eastside Guns 13570 Bel-Red Rd. Bellevue, WA 98005 Tel: (425) 649-5995 URL: wadesguns.com

amazon.com evike.com rainierarms.com UN12mag.com weaponoutfitters.com INTERNATIONAL RETAILERS

CANADA BELGIUM

NETHERLANDS DTS-Armory Tel: (+31) 475-202-153 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

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

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UN12 / Issue 010

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