UN12 - 014 Magazine

U.S. $14.95

Included

Sticker Sheet: UN12 x Strike Industries x Rifle Supply

Featured Material

Dueling Glocks: G17 vs. G19 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:

Individual First Aid Kit Carry Cloning the FN M249 SAW Competition Kalashnikov KR-9 Ely Yerian Designs AR-15

Feature Firearm

Rifle Supply’s Customized Aero Precision M4E1 AR Pistol + Smith & Wesson M&P 9 Shield

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

Zenith M90-Duo ISSUE

UN12mag.com

014

MADE IN USA

56 Zenith M90-Duo Firearm Feature

UN12 Issue 014

Table of Contents

34

82

100

128

Competition KR-9 Firearm Feature

Ely Yerian Designs AR-15 Firearm Feature

FN M249SA SAW General Feature

Sharknivco Customization Feature

44

88

106

136

B&T MP5 Upgrades General Feature

Aero Precision EPC-9 Complete Upper Receiver Product Review

IFAK Carry General Feature

Pitbull Tactical Universal Mag Carrier Product Spotlight

50 Rifle Supply Shop Tour

66 Last Line of Defense Ford F-250 Tremor Adventure

72 Death Watch AR Pistol Firearm Feature

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UN12 / Issue 014

92 Blue Force Gear MTKN+ Product Review

96 Trinity Nevada Ground Zero GZ17 Slide Product Review

114 Dueling Glocks Firearm Feature

124 Miculek Magnetic Buffer System Product Review

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.

TOC

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

22 Every Day Carry

Dept.

10

137

Editor’s Letter

Guns of Instagram

30

12 New Products

18 Sticker Sheet

30 Called Out

132 Shoot This Drill

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132

014

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

—

W

elcome back to UN12. If this is not your first issue,

project inspired by 18th century dueling pistols, we see

Publisher

we thank you for your valuable support. If you

what a pair of gentleman’s dueling Glocks might look like

Howard C Lim

are just picking us up for the first time, we thank you

in this day and age. And not everything customized wears

and encourage you to hunt down our previous issues.

fancy Cerakote, as the featured modified-for-competition

Editors

Each edition of UN12 is packed with informative articles

Kalashnikov KR-9 demonstrates. It may be all black, but

The UN12 Creative Team

and impactful photography that focus on our favorite

it’s sure to turn heads at the range nonetheless.

subjects: firearms and their

Elsewhere, our resident gear

Associate Editor Danny Chang

accessories. Join us as we

expert, Charles “Chip” Lasky,

take a deep dive into the world

talks about the importance

of firearm customization,

of IFAKs (Individual First Air

artistry, and creativity. If you’re

Kits) and how they should be

into modifying your guns and

carried. You’d best not miss it;

gear for increased function or

the knowledge he drops could

enhanced aesthetics, we’re

save a life. He also reviews the

with you.

newest med kit from Blue Force

Art Director

Gear that could change the

James Ho

In this issue, we get introduced to customized

IFAK game as we know it.

guns that run the gamut, from

This print issue comes with

pure fantasy builds to an

an exciting and exclusive

eye-opening, nearly authentic

sticker sheet that we’ve made

military clone. The cover gun

in collaboration with our

is brought to us by the good

industry partners. We hope you

folks at Rifle Supply. It’s a

like it as much as we do. These

head-turning AR pistol that

limited-production stickers are

sports a twist on the Swedish

made in small batches and will

M90 camo scheme. We also

not be reissued.

get an up-close look at a Mandalorian-inspired AR pistol. The details are so onpoint that some parts of it look like it’s made of Beskar. If you don’t know what that is, read on to find out all about it.

For belt-fed aficionados, tech editor Michael Penhall gives us a rundown on his FN M249 SAW clone. You’ll want to get in on that linked-ammo juiciness. If Glocks are your thing, you’re in luck. In a

“Each edition of UN12 is packed with informative articles and impactful photography that focus on our favorite subjects: firearms and their accessories.”

As always, we’re looking for innovators and custom guns and knives to feature. If you have a firearm or other piece of gear that you have customized, we want to know about it. Tag us @un12mag on Instagram if

Technical Editor Michael Penhall

Creative Direction James Ho, Jerry Tsai

Contributors Martin Anders, Jay Canter, Michael Grey, Charles Lasky, Chris Lee, John Pangilinan, John Scott, David Thorson, Roland Wilkes, James York

Special Thanks Aristotle Bartolome, John Hwang, Che Chon

Copy Editor Frank Stroud

Advertising Sales George Nogal george@un12mag.com

Ad Coordinator Frank Stroud

you have something that UN12 readers would like to see. Let us know what you think we got right or could do better in this issue on our Facebook page at: /un12mag.

—The UN12 Creative Team

Printed in the USA 014-2021

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UN12 / Issue 014

THE PRS LITE FROM MAGPUL. HEAVY ON FEATURES AND QUALITY. LIGHT ON WEIGHT AND COST. ®

Designed to military standards, the PRS Lite is ten ounces lighter than the PRS GEN3 while providing comb height, LOP, and butt-pad adjustability, all in a stable interface that includes plenty of options for your sling.

www.magpul.com © 2021 Magpul Industries Corporation. MAGPUL, MAGPUL LOGO & DESIGN, and others are trademarks of Magpul Industries Corp.

DEPT.

New Products

Vice Hardware THE STASH HOUSE The Stash House design came together over a course of a few years. Vice Hardware wanted to bring a totally new look and new features to the EDC tray concept. Designed to work hand-in-hand with the company’s F22/F1 wallets, the tray can accommodate your favorite custom EDC pistol for quick grab-and-go convenience. The main body is machined from an 8-pound block of aircraft aluminum and the top is adorned with top-grain leather. $185 vicehardware.com

Mesa Tactical FALLON RAIL SYSTEM The recent generation of stockless, short-barreled home defense shotguns such as the Mossberg 590 Shockwave and Remington TAC-13/TAC-14 have been the most exciting developments in the shotgun sector in recent years.

Mesa Tactical now offers its latest SureShell shell carriers with 18-inch accessory rails in the form of the Fallon Rail System, designed to specifically support these platforms.

From $174 mesatactical.com

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TangoDown AR-15 CASTLE NUT WRENCH TangoDown developed its own castle nut wrench after witnessing the disappointing results of using other armorer’s wrenches, which would either damage and scratch the castle nut’s drive notches or were unable to create the correct torque needed to cinch the nut down effectively. Constructed of precision-machined 4140 steel heat-treated to spec and coated with a durable black oxide finish, it’s specifically designed to prevent damage to the castle nut itself and features teeth that are properly dimensioned for positive, non-slip engagement. $42 tangodown.com

Dead Foot Arms SCW 2.5 & SCW 4 The SCW 2.5 and 4 are Dead Foot Arms’ most compact PDW-style brace/stock for the AR-15. Collapsed length is 2.5 inches for the SCW 2.5 and 3.9 inches for the SCW 4.

The SCW also allows for button-free deployment and five length-of-pull settings. The SCW 2.5 is designed to use the DFA Modified BCG, while the SCW 4 uses a standard BCG. $450-600 deadfootarms.com

Midwest Industries MARLIN GHOST RING SIGHTS & RAILS Midwest Industries has released a new line of ghost ring sights and rails for Marlin lever-action rifles.

The sights are designed for fast target acquisition without sacrificing accuracy, helping shooters take down moving targets with ease. Ghost rings offer the widest possible range of windage and elevation adjustment, accounting for different ammunition and shooting conditions. With options for both Marlin 1894 and 1895, as well as Picatinny rail mounting or direct attachment for red dot users, this modular line provides ultimate flexibility for lever enthusiasts. $40-170 midwestindustriesinc.com

Arcane Designs THE CRAWLER Climbing from the depths of the abyss, the Crawler is a knife that makes its presence known. With a 3.5-inch blade, this Wharncliffe knife is the epitome of utilitarian style.

Built with 6AL4V titanium handles and a robust M390 steel blade, the Crawler is a durable creature. It is also available with a Damasteel blade, as shown.

M390 from $310; Damasteel $620 (est.) arcanedesign.com

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Diamondback Firearms DBX57 Perfect for use as a backpack or truck gun, especially when used with the SB Tactical 1913 brace, this semi-auto firearm is chambered for the effective 5.7x28mm round. The compact weapon comes with an 8-inch barrel and measures only 15.25 inches in length overall. It uses a standard AR-15 trigger and incorporates an m-lok handguard for the ultimate in upgradability. $1,411 diamondbackfirearms.com

5.11 Tactical VLAD RESCUE PEN The Vlad Rescue Pen is a versatile tool that serves as both a highquality pen and an emergency rescue device. The retractable twist implement utilizes a replaceable and pressurized ink cartridge.

The opposite end features a removable cap over a carbide-tip window breaker that’s capable of shattering tempered glass.

Constructed with aerospacegrade aluminum and full-surface gimping for a stable, non-slip grip, this tool is ready for any situation. $40 511tactical.com

SIG Sauer KILO5K RANGEFINDER This all-new family of rangefinders features SIG’s proprietary LightWave DSP Gen II rangefinder engine with extended range XR technology, integration with the BaseMap app, onboard Applied Ballistics capabilities, and complete configurability with all SIG Sauer Electro-Optics BDX devices. The KILO5K 7 x 25 mm laser rangefinder monocular can range reflective targets out to 5,000 yards, trees to 2,500 yards, and deer to 2,000 yards. It allows users to range a tree, rock, or deer and instantly drop waypoints into the BaseMap app to aid navigation to the target. Integrated BDX technology provides ballistic solutions out to 800 yards with Applied Ballistics Ultralite, or it will sync with external devices featuring Applied Ballistics Elite. It also includes a complete suite of onboard environmental sensors for real-time ballistic solutions. $780 sigsauer.com

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15

UF Pro P-40 GEN.2 TACTICAL SHORTS UF Pro’s innovative tactical shorts promise great comfort, high performance, and a sharp look thanks to the use of the company’s new Flex/Waist System, which enables the garment to conform smartly to the shape of the wearer’s waist. The P-40 Gen.2 will be offered in four solid colors: Black, Brown Grey, Kangaroo, or Navy Blue. Additionally, the shorts can be obtained in MultiCam or MultiCam Black. Other features include side-pocket ventilation openings covered with anti-mosquito mesh and a variety of pockets for all your gear. $183 ufpro.com

Fenix PD36 TAC TACTICAL FLASHLIGHT The compact Fenix PD36 TAC flashlight measures about 5.5 inches long and comes with a pocket clip, making it easy to carry.

It features an impressive output of 3,000 lumens and a maximum beam distance of 898 feet. Normal charging time for the single 21700 rechargeable battery is about 4 hours, with a maximum runtime of 160. Fenix designed this light with double springs to keep the battery suspended, thereby allowing it to resist potential damage from external impacts.

A USB Type-C charging cable comes included. $100 fenix-store.com

Holosun AEMS The AEMS is designed to combine the large FOV of full-sized red dot optics in a more compact, lightweight package. At just 54mm long, it is 11% shorter than a standard 20mm micro-style optic, and it weighs just 3.9 ounces without a mount. The included lower 1/3 cowitness mount is removable, allowing alternate mounting options and providing adaptability across multiple firearm platforms. The AEMS is feature-packed with Holosun’s Solar Failsafe, Shake Awake, Multi-reticle System, and a 50K hour battery life, all in an IPX8-waterproof 7075 aluminum housing.

From $470 holosun.com

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DEPT.

Patch-14

Slapworthy Text & Images by JAMES YORK

S

ticker-bombing our gear isn’t anything

that a follow-up sheet has found its way into

new. We used to do it to our skateboards

this issue. For the second issue in a row, we are

and Pee-Chee folders back in grade school, and

proud to present to our readers an exclusive

as grown adults we’re still doing it today—only

sticker sheet that’s packed full of weather-

on hardcases, gun safes, and ammo boxes

resistant, self-adhesive slaps to help add some

instead. Heck, we even have some on our

firearm flavor to any gear of your choosing.

spotting scope and ear pro. Stickers are a fun,

This time around, we’re proud to share the

colorful way to customize our gear. Slapping on

sticker sheet with Strike Industries and Rifle

stickers not only helps personalize otherwise-

Supply. Enjoy these stickers by slapping them

identical storage cases and other equipment,

on your gear, or hang on to them as collector’s

but also gives it artistic appeal.

items. After all, they’re exclusive to this issue of

The previous issue’s UN12 sticker sheet was such a hit with our readers and industry partners

UN12 and will not be printed again. [ UN12 ]

Issue 014 Sticker Sheet

Concept art for this issue’s sticker sheet. Finalized sheet may differ.

©2021 UN12. Logos and trademarks are properties of their respective owners.

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UN12 / Issue 014

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Every Day Carry

01

02

03

Text & Images by JERRY TSAI

T

his issue’s lead-off EDC setup comes by way of

a cross-country traveler who travels between the east and west coasts in his RV a few times a year. It’s for this very reason he pieced together a go-bag that’s packed full of defensive and other essential gear. It’s always interesting to see what someone’s EDC setup contains, but we found it to be especially so for this one.

It’s all completely contained in a plain-looking backpack, allowing the entire array to be removed from the RV without drawing any unwanted attention. Let’s dive into the

04

bag and see what essentials its owner has packed into it.

05

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

Vertx Commuter Sling 2.0

Panerai Radiomir California - 47mm

Microtech Knives Combat Troodon

Olight Baton Pro

SIG Sauer Romeo5

MSRP: $8,000

MSRP: $550

Midwest industries Combat Rail 4.5” Handguard

Streamlight TLR-1 Gun Light

MSRP: $200

myCharge Wireless Portable Power Bank

URL: vertx.com

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UN12 / Issue 014

URL: panerai.com

URL: microtech knives.com

MSRP: $90 URL: olightstore.com

MSRP: $56 URL: amazon.com

MSRP: $150 URL: sigsauer.com

MSRP: $140 URL: midwest industriesinc.com

MSRP: $220 URL: streamlight.com

Every Day Carry / 29

06

09

07

08

10

11

12

14 13

15

09

10

11

12

13

14

15

Maxim Defense PDW Brace

Smith & Wesson Small Collapsible Baton

ProMag AR-15 9mm Glock-Style Drum Mag

Streamlight TLR-6 Tactical Gun Light

Epi Pen

Smith & Wesson Model 300 Hinged Handcuffs

Shield Arms Gen 2 S15 Steel Magazine

MSRP: From $330

MSRP: $40

MSRP: $100

MSRP: $225

MSRP: $37

MSRP: $40

URL: maximdefense.com

URL: store.smithwesson.com

URL: promagindustries.com

URL: streamlight.com

URL: galls.com

URL: shieldarms.com

URL: epipen.com

UN12mag.com

23

29

Premium EDC Items Vertx Commuter Sling 2.0

Shield Arms Gen 2 S15 Steel Magazine

Microtech Knives Combat Troodon

URL: vertx.com

MSRP: $40

MSRP: $550

Our 2¢: We’re impressed that the Vertx Commuter Sling 2.0 carries all of the pictured items and then some without offering a hint of what’s inside. Lightweight and featuring rapidaccess, this rifle-friendly platform enables you to securely carry more essentials in comfort, confidence, and safety. The convertible front flap quickly transitions from street-credible to active mode, keeping you off the radar until the situation requires otherwise.

URL: shieldarms.com

Our 2¢: Produced by Shield Arms and made by Check-Mate, the S15 is a flush-fitting 15-round magazine for Glock 43X and Glock 48. It’s a steel magazine that’s the same length as a 10-round OEM mag, but it holds an additional 5 rounds. It all adds up to the reliability you’d expect from factory Glock mags but with an impressive 50% capacity increase in the same overall footprint.

Our 2¢: Fast, reliable, sharp—that’s what Microtech knives are known for. Built for a variety of utility and close-quarter combat situations, the Combat Troodon is a favorite among law enforcement, military, and first responder personnel. Its substantial feel makes it suitable for hard use, while the benefits of an automatic out-the-front (OTF) deployment make it a great choice for everyday carry.

Streamlight TLR-6 Tactical Gun Light

Smith & Wesson Small Collapsible Baton

Olight Baton Pro

MSRP: $225

MSRP: $40

URL: streamlight.com

URL: store.smith-wesson.com

Our 2¢: Having a mounted flashlight is helpful in darkened indoor areas and for times after the sun has set. Streamlight’s TLR-6 securely attaches to a variety of subcompact handguns for lowand no-light targeting capability. It’s seen here seamlessly mounted on a Glock 48.

Our 2¢: For a compact and instantly deployable stand-off or self-defense device, the S&W Small Collapsible Baton is made from a black STKM11A carbon steel shaft and textured black handle. It includes a pocket clip and a hand-held sheath for jogging, walking, and hiking.

MSRP: $200

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UN12 / Issue 014

URL: microtechknives.com

MSRP: $90 URL: olightstore.com Our 2¢: A compact light is one of the most important everyday carry items on our list. The Baton Pro is a rechargeable side-switch LED flashlight powered by a single 3500mAh 18650 rechargeable lithium battery and a high-efficiency LED. The flashlight delivers a maximum output of 2,000 lumens and uses Olight’s signature magnetic USB system for convenient charging.

9

CONSERVATION HOME PROTECT COMMUNITY COUNTRY

HWS X P S2 ™

eotechinc.com ©Copyright 2021 EOTECH, LLC. All rights reserved. EOTECH®, Vudu® and HWS® are registered trademarks of EOTECH, LLC.

DEPT.

Every Day Carry / 30 02

04

01 Tec PicoPen MSRP: $10 URL: tecaccessories.com

02

03

Costa Blackfin Blue Mirror 580G MSRP: $259 URL: costadelmar.com

03 Side By Side Power Packer MSRP: $40 URL: sidebysidegear.com

04

01

BlackFire Heavy-Duty Multi Tool MSRP: $40 URL: blackfire.com

05 Griffon Industries GI Cube MSRP: $30 URL: griffonindustries.com

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UN12 / Issue 014

05

06

06 Benchmade Mini Adamas

07 08

MSRP: $250 URL: benchmade.com

07 Keyport Slide 3.0 4-Port

09

MSRP: Starts at $49 URL: mykeyport.com

08 Pelican 1810 Keychain Light MSRP: $12.50 URL: pelican.com

09 SureFire Stiletto Pro MSRP: $229 URL: surefire.com

10

10 DJI Mini 2 MSRP: $449 URL: store.dji.com

UN12mag.com

27

30

Premium EDC Items SureFire Stiletto Pro MSRP: $229 URL: surefire.com Our 2¢: The Stiletto Pro fits comfortably in any pocket and can be drawn and activated with ease. The pint-sized flashlight delivers 1,000 lumens of smooth, shadow-filling LED white light in high-output mode. It also has a 300-lumen medium output and a 25-lumen low output to suit a variety of tasks. It can be programmed to set the output sequence and its Melonitecoated, reversible, heavy duty spring steel pocket clip keeps the light secure whether you prefer bezel-up or bezel-down stowage.

28

DJI Mini 2

MSRP: $449 URL: store.dji.com Our 2¢: Filming and taking pictures with drones has changed the way we record and consume our media. The easy-to-use DJI Mini 2 pocket drone is a handy way to recon the trail ahead or capture a dynamic day at the range.

It is directed via a remote controller docked smartphone and features a digital zoom power of 4x and 4K video capabilities. It’s compact enough to be tucked away in a pouch or pocket until it’s time for deployment.

BlackFire Heavy-Duty Multi Tool

Side By Side Power Packer

MSRP: $40 URL: blackfire.com Our 2¢: This is an all-in-one tool designed around a pair of full-sized pliers, an integrated screw-nut driver, a stainless steel knife, file, and bottle opener. Made of heavy duty aluminum and stainless steel for hard use, it also features a liner lock for safety and operational integrity.

MSRP: $40 URL: sidebysidegear.com Our 2¢: Mankind hasn’t traveled with more chargers and wires than right now. Keep them all organized with Side By Side’s Power Packer, a cable pouch organizer that keeps all your technology arranged and protected in the smallest possible footprint.

UN12 / Issue 014

Keyport Slide 3.0 4-Port

MSRP: Starts at $49 URL: mykeyport.com Our 2¢: Keep your keys from jingling and making a mess inside your pocket or pack by streamlining them with the Keyport Slide. The modular Slide is capable of housing keys and other small pocket tools and can be configured any number of ways to suit your everyday needs.

While the Slide 3.0 has worked well for us over the years, we’re excited to hear that a new Keyport Slide 4.0 is currently in the works.

Tec PicoPen MSRP: $10 URL: tecaccessories.com Our 2¢: Looking for a functional yet stylish pen that’s small enough to fit on your keychain? With the PicoPen, you’ll never again be without a pen when you need one. Measuring three and a quarter inches long and weighing just half an ounce, you’ll never know it’s there until you reach for it. When you run low on ink, you can simply recharge it with a commonly available replaceable ink refill.

0

DEPT.

Called Out

Sights SIGLITE Suppressor Night Sight Set MSRP: $100

Weaponlight SureFire X300U-A MSRP: $329 SureFire’s most popular weaponlight now boasts 1,000 lumens—enough to light up the night and them some.

Modified SIG Sauer P320 Text by JOHN SCOTT Images by MICHAEL GREY

C

ustomization of pistols was once left to those with abundant time and money to spend on the bespoke craftsmanship of sought-after artisans.

While truly one-off customs are still highly prized, many companies are now offering a faster and less expensive path to creating a customized gun.

SIG Sauer is among the big-time firearms manufacturers embracing the customization movement. Leading the way with the P320 platform, SIG has steadily pumped out a wide variety of upgraded parts to help make your pistol truly your own. SIG’s P320 FCU makes building a custom gun quick and easy.

We started out with a base model full-size P320 and upgraded it using parts from SIG and others to create a pistol that ordinarily might have taken months of waiting and probably double the money to complete. This pistol came together in a little over a week. Talk about instant gratification.

We weren’t done after assembly. We decided to send the grip module out for a custom Cerakote job by Koted Arms based on the cover gun from our last issue. Without further ado, let’s take a look at what parts were installed on this customized SIG P320. [ UN12 ]

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UN12 / Issue 014

Optic SIG Sauer ROMEO1 MSRP: $330 ROMEO1 features a molded glass aspheric lens with high-performance coatings for superior light transmittance and zero distortion. Its manual illumination controls remember your last used settings for fast activation.

Trigger SIG Sauer Flat Skeletonized Enhanced Stainless Steel MSRP: $80 This direct-replacement factory flat trigger reduces stock trigger pull weight by 30%.

The flat shoe is designed to encourage a lower finger position on the trigger for a smoother, more consistent pull.

Cerakote Koted Arms

Slide SIG Sauer Pro-Cut Slide Black Nitron 4.7

The custom pattern is inspired by the racing livery found on racecars campaigned by Japanese automotive performance brand HKS.

MSRP: $400 SIG’s Pro-Cut Slide is a drop-in factory replacement for the P320 Full-Size 9mm. It features an optic-ready cut with cover plate, XRAY3 Night Sights, Nitron finish, and employs stylized relief cuts throughout. Best of all, unlike third-party slide upgrades, this slide does not void your P320’s warranty.

UN12mag.com

31

Mag Extension Strike Industries Extended Magazine Plate MSRP: $22 Users may extend magazine capacity by five rounds with this extended magazine plate.

Mag Release Strike Industries Modular Magazine Release MSRP: $22 Allows you to swap differently sized magazine release extensions for improved ergonomics.

Modified SIG Sauer P320 Sources SIG Sauer sigsauer.com

Strike Industries strikeindustries.com

Koted Arms kotedarms.com

SureFire surefire.com

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UN12 / Issue 014

Grip Module SIG Sauer P320 X-Five Full Size Grip Module MSRP: $120 The P320 X5 Grip Module features a deeper trigger guard undercut, a higher back strap, and an extended beavertail to encourage a higher grip for better recoil management. It comes standard with a removable weight for improved balance, as well as a removable magazine funnel for faster reloading.

MAXIMUM SECURITY FOR AN INSECURE WORLD

AVAILABLE FOR: BERETTA: 1301 REMINGTON: 870, 1100, 11-87 BENELLI: M1, M2, M3, M4, SUPERNOVA MOSSBERG: 930

URBINO®

PISTOL GRIP SYSTEM FOR TACTICAL SHOTGUNS

MOSSBERG 930

The Urbino shotgun stock is designed for professionals working to keep any environment safe. Constructed of rugged glass-filled polymer and equipped with a Limbsaver® butt pad that reduces felt recoil, it’s engineered for any mission with comfort and reliability. The Urbino has an optimized length of pull for maximum maneuverability through the tightest doorways and narrowest hallways. Use it to defend your castle.

WWW.MESATACTICAL.COM

MESA TACTICAL RENO • NV • USA

FEATURE

: : Kalashnikov USA KR-9 modified with Russian & American parts : : Based on AK-74 architecture : : Chambered in 9mm

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UN12 / Issue 014

Text by JOHN SCOTT Images by MICHAEL GREY

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

UN12mag.com

35

FEATURE

P

istol-caliber carbines (PCCs)

that the company offered a 9mm version

and rotary bolt

have been a hot commodity in the

of the AK.

are replaced with a

firearms world for the past few years now,

Also available as the KP-9 pistol and KR-9 SBR, both of which come with 9.25-

would usually be the gas tube. The

shoot, they’re cheaper to shoot, and they

inch barrels, a longer 16.25-inch-barreled

extra weight helps cycle 9mm cartridges

keep your muscle memory sharpened for

version simply called KR-9 is the one that

smoothly and efficiently, even high-

the times when you do pick up your rifle-

Stone found to be the perfect PCC. KUSA’s

powered loads. KUSA’s KR-9 and KP-9

caliber carbine. Training and competing

KR-9 is essentially a clone of the Saiga-9,

offer the same system in a semi-automatic

with a PCC similar to your regular carbine

which in turn is a semi-automatic version

package. Like the Vityaz, the KR-9 and

can help you keep your manual of arms

of Kalashnikov Concern’s PP-19 Vityaz

KP-9 also share the same trigger and

well-honed and ready to go.

submachine gun. The Vityaz currently

safety mechanisms as the AK-74 rifle and

serves as the standard submachine gun for

take most aftermarket parts that you’d be

decided to pick up a Kalashnikov KR-9.

all branches of Russian military and police

able to fit on an AK.

The KR-9 is essentially a PCC version of an

forces.

This is what Will Stone thought when he

AK and is chambered for 9mm instead of a

The original Vityaz is a select-fire

Being fed 9mm rounds means that the 9mm AK uses a proprietary box magazine

rifle cartridge. Stone figured that the KR-9

weapon that utilizes a closed-bolt, straight

that’s different from those used on other

is an analog to his go to-carbine, an AK-74

blowback system. The bolt carrier and

AKs. The slimmer magazine that KUSA

pattern weapon, so using it would help him

charging handle are similar to the ones

provides is made of polymer and is

keep his skills fresh while facilitating higher

found on other AKs, but its piston rod

available in 30- and 10-round formats.

round usage for training and competition at a lower ammo cost. Shooting 9mm allows him access to more gun ranges in his area as well.

The KR-9 is a product of Kalashnikov USA, an American firm dedicated to building the Russian-style arms that we Americans can’t seem to get enough of right here in the USA. To be clear, the company is not associated with the original Kalashnikov Concern in Russia, so their firearms are considered American-made clones of the Russian originals. That said, we got to examine the KR-9 up close and have to say that, although it’s a clone, it does not lack in quality one bit. The carbine is probably one of the best examples of Russian-style arms that we can buy from a manufacturer here in the States. The fit and finish are exemplary.

Stone’s favorite long gun is his AK-74.

He prefers its 5.45x39mm cartridge for its lighter recoil and battle zero characteristics over the AKM’s 7.62x39mm round. When it came time to look for a PCC to join in steel match competitions at a local range, he shopped around for one that suited him.

Spoiler alert: The search didn’t take long.

His first stop was the Kalashnikov USA (KUSA) website, and it was here he learned

36

weight that extends into what

and it’s easy to see why. They’re fun to

UN12 / Issue 014

An extended magazine pad is available

“The carbine is probably one of the best examples of Russianstyle arms you can buy from a manufacturer here in the States.”

to boost the 30-round capacity to 40.

Magazine ejection is still handled via a paddle release as on other AKs. The carbine you see here is the culmination of Stone’s parts-buying trial and error and range-time experience. Like most of us, he had an idea of what parts he wanted to run, but after getting his hands on them he realized that some of those parts wouldn’t work out. How the rifle is currently configured is how he currently runs it.

“My original plan was to make it as ‘Russian’ as possible in keeping with its

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

Optic A Russian-made Pilad P1x30 red dot assists the shooter in target acquisition.

Muzzle The SLR Rifleworks Synergy comp has a little color anodizing for a bit of flash.

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37

FEATURE

Vityaz roots,” Stone says. “That’s to say I

the frontend, he also mounted an SLR m-lok

only wanted to add items I could source

Fingerstop. Just north of it, you’ll find that

from Russia. So I initially ordered a bunch

he replaced the KR-9’s factory polymer

of parts domestically and from Russia and

upper handguard with a steel one from

Ukraine that I imagined would work out for

Khyber Customs. Khyber Customs offers

my shooting style and needs. Some of the

a variety of handguard styles; Stone chose

parts panned out, while others didn’t.”

their original AKM/AK-74-length Swiss

Stone admits that the carbine is in a

designs feature elongated slots instead of

out new accessories all the time. His KR-9

round holes.

as constructed at the time of this article’s

The other American-made parts you’ll find

writing shows it to have a mix of Russian

on the KR-9 include an ALG Defense AK

and American-made parts, which is fitting

trigger and Krebs Custom enhanced safety.

since the carbine’s pedigree is as Russian-

Stone points out that the ALG trigger gives

American as a firearm can get.

the KR-9 a smoother shooting experience,

From the tip you’ll find an SLR Rifleworks

which is important for the competition

Synergy Linear Hybrid Comp. The 9mm

matches he uses it in, and the Krebs safety

muzzle device installs onto the KR-9’s

is extended for easier reach. It incorporates

1/2x28-threaded barrel perfectly. Stone

a cutout so the bolt can be locked back and

chose SLR’s flashy color-anodized finish for

held in place when the safety is engaged.

some extra pizazz. We quite like the look.

He also added a quick-detach sling mount,

The m-lok compatible handguard is also

located just above the grip, by Echo Nine

to release the magazine. So he installed

made by SLR and was ordered by special

Three. The E93 V3/QD sling mount is made

a Custom Guns Arhipov’s Lever Skeleton

request. While SLR does offer KR-9 specific

of thick steel and is as solid a mount as

Mag Release. This release extends back

rails, Stone wanted a longer handguard

we’ve encountered.

toward his shooting hand and is thumb-

than those the company offered for the

Diving right into the Russian-made

platform, so he ordered a rail that would

upgrades, we noticed that the KR-9 was

pressing down on the release. Stone reports

fit an AK but asked for them to include a

fitted with an extended ZenitCo RP-2 Vityaz

that mag changes are much quicker with

KR-9 compatible mount instead. SLR kindly

charging handle. The much larger surface

this release.

obliged. KR-9 compatible handguards are

area that the enlarged handle provides

almost identical to those of regular stamped

gives the shooter greater leverage, making

has to do with the optic that Stone chose.

AKs, except that the 9mm AK’s mounting

it easier to manipulate. Other performance

He already has experience with Aimpoint,

area is smaller overall and requires a

mods include a flared magwell made by

EOTech, Primary Arms, Vortex, and SIG

specific mount.

another Russian brand, Custom Guns.

optics and wanted to go outside the box

The enlarged, funnel-shaped well allows

and find something different. He discovered

AK Ion 14.7” Lite handguard for 16-inch

for quicker magazine changes, which is

a Russian optic company called Pilad, and

barrels. Although the company also offers

especially helpful under the stress of timed

after doing plenty of research he decided

a version of the same rail for 16.25- to

competition.

to try out the brand’s P1x30 red dot. “At

The handguard he chose was the SLR

16.5-inch barrels, Stone specifically wanted

38

Cheese Grater design. The other handguard

state of constant flux since he likes to try

Stone points out that he didn’t realize

actuated, which allows mag changes by

Another cause-and-effect modification

under a hundred bucks, the Russian red dot

the slightly shorter version so it would not

the larger magwell would interfere with

wasn’t a big gamble but there were plenty

cover any of his comp bling. To complete

the paddle mag release, making it difficult

of unknowns,” he says. “I wasn’t sure how

UN12 / Issue 014

“It’s a mix of Russian and Americanmade parts; fitting, since the carbine’s pedigree is as RussianAmerican as a firearm can get.”

Handguard The lower guard is an SLR AK Ion chosen in a length that would not obscure the comp.

Cheek Pad A riser from 4Shooters brings the shooter’s cheek weld up so his eye is in line with the optic.

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39

FEATURE

big it really was and had no idea how tall

much fun running it at the steel matches

it would sit on the KR-9’s dust cover rail.

as well as at casual range days with my

It does have three reticles you can switch

buddies. Now that ammo is making a

between and doesn’t require a separate

comeback, expect to see me out on the

mount, so that was cool.”

range with it even more.”

As it turned out, the optic was taller

and when asked what else he has planned

weld. To be fair, pretty much any optic

for it, Stone immediately responds: “I may

would be too high to use with the KR-9’s

get it Cerakoted. I’m not sure what color

“metal triangle” stock. Stone turned to

yet, but I’m definitely considering getting it

the shop 4Shooters.com where he found

coated.” We look forward to seeing it.

a cheek riser that fit his stock perfectly.

[ UN12 ]

The riser securely fastens to the triangle stock, has a comfortable cheekpad, and it’s adjustable for height. Stone says it may look fragile but it hasn’t budged since he installed it.

What happens when you take an inherently compact and soft-shooting gun and make it longer and heavier? That’s what Stone did with his KR-9. Built for competition, he feels he gets more trigger time with it than with his favorite AK-74.

“The KR-9 is a fantastic rifle to shoot,” he tells us. “I can’t get enough of it. I have so

40

We think the PCC looks really great too,

than he could use with his standard cheek

UN12 / Issue 014

Magwell The flared well from Russian brand Custom Guns helps speed up mag changes in competition.

Handguard The upper guard is a Khyber Customs Swiss Cheese Grater.

Why You Need A Console Vault In-Vehicle Safe » If you think your glove box is safe » If you hunt, fish, hike, shoot, camp,

or vacation with your family

» If you can’t carry and have to leave

your gun in your vehicle

» If you keep your gun in your vehicle

while you’re at work

» If you have ever been a victim of a

smash & grab

» If you want to protect your investment Of the thousands of crimes committed with a firearm, most involved firearms stolen from vehicles like yours. In-vehicle theft is a crime of opportunity. The best way to protect your firearms and valuables is to eliminate the opportunity.

All Console Vault In-Vehicle Safes are built from heavy gauge steel with a choice of locking mechanisms. Each safe is easily installed in the console of your vehicle because the best way to hide your firearm is to hide the safe.

C O N S O L E V A U LT. C O M

Kalashnikov USA KR-9 Specifications Caliber: 9mm Capacity: 30+1 Minimum Length: 25.75 in.

Maximum Length: 35 in.

Weight Unloaded: 8 lbs, 3 oz.

Barrel Length: 16.26 in.

Featured Accessories Optic: Pilad P1x30 red dot Handguard: SLR Rifleworks AK Ion 14.7” Lite m-lok (lower) Khyber Customs Swiss Cheese Grater (upper) Parts & Accessories: SLR Rifleworks Synergy Linear Hybrid Comp 9mm 1/2x28, SLR Rifleworks m-lok Fingerstop, AK Trigger Enhanced with Lightning Bow (AKT-EL), Echo Nine Three V3/ QD sling mount, ZenitCo RP-2 Vityaz charging handle, Custom Guns KR-9/KP-9 Magwell, Custom Guns KR-9/KP-9 Arhipov’s Lever Skeleton Mag Release, 4Shooters.com AK Cheek Riser

About the Owner Name: Will Stone Occupation: Physical Therapist

42

UN12 / Issue 014

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“The carbine you see here is the ultimate culmination of parts-buying trial and error and range-time experience.”

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43

FEATURE

B&T M : : MP5/HK94 upgrades : : Legendary B&T machining

: : Easy bolt-on installation

44

UN12 / Issue 014

Before The Cohaire Arms CA94 is a clone of the HK MP5. Ours was purchased long ago and has sat quietly in the safe for some time now.

B&T MP5 Upgrades Text & Images by JOHN SCOTT

MP5 UN12mag.com

45

B&T FEATURE

A

dding a gun into your collection always makes

as well as accessories for guns such as the MP5. B&T

for an exciting time. No matter how many you’ve

currently supplies various weapon systems, suppressors,

got, there always seems to be room for one more. Like

and accessories to police, special forces, and elite military

Christmas morning when you were a kid, any addition to

units around the world. B&T’s design philosophy allows

your pew-pew family is something fun to look forward to.

it to provide these professionals with complete, mission-

However, we’re willing to bet that over time the excitement

adaptable advanced weapons systems that they can

fades and some guns have fallen out of favor with their

depend on under demanding conditions.

owners.

While poking around the bt-parts.com website, we

For whatever the reason, it seems that there comes a

noticed that they offered all the parts that we needed to

time when you’re bound to have purchased a gun or two

get the CA94 back into range day rotation. We picked up a

that you’re not quite into anymore. Perhaps it didn’t shoot

slick telescopic stock to replace the old-school stock that

like you imagined it would, or it didn’t fit your intended use

came with the gun. B&T machining is legendary and the

any longer. Some of us sell our lesser-loved firearms off to

feel of the stock sliding from its compact to extended forms

make room for more, while others are simply retired to the

is something to be experienced. It’s damned silky.

back of the safe.

The length-adjustable stock can be set in five positions

There is another option. Instead of selling it or otherwise

and can be deployed very quickly without having to

putting it out to pasture, why not dive head-in and upgrade

pressing a lever or button. With its 16-inch barrel and the

it to be the shooter that you know it could be? We had one

stock at its shortest setting, the carbine’s overall length

such gun and recently decided to do something about it.

is just under 27 inches. B&T points out that this stock is a

For us, it was a Cohaire Arms CA94. The CA94 is a clone of

great option for fitting a telescopic stock on MP5 clones

the Heckler & Koch MP5/HK94, and the model we have is

that cannot accommodate the factory HK telescopic stock.

the 16-inch-barreled carbine version. It was added to the

We also nabbed two handguards. B&T’s TL99 3x NAR

collection long ago and has sat in the safe, quietly doing

is a polymer handguard with three metal Picatinny rail

nothing, for some time now.

segments attached to it. For those who still want an

It’s a decent shooter, but with its long, skinny barrel and

old-school look but require rails for accessory mounting,

plastic furniture it no longer met our form and function

this is a good choice. It mounts easily, just like the stock

thresholds for making it out to the range. We rediscovered

handguard does. Release the front pin and it’s out.

it while doing a reorg of the safe and realized it’s a solid foundation that really only needed a few bolt-on upgrades to revamp its image and its functionality.

With newfound vigor, we hit the internet and searched for MP5 upgrades. We quickly came across the website bt-parts.com. This webstore specializes in parts and accessories from Swiss arms manufacturer B&T. Well-known for its APC9, TP9, and GHM9 firearms, the company also makes suppressors

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

01 02

46

UN12 / Issue 014

MP5 “Instead of selling it or otherwise putting it out to pasture, why not dive head-in and upgrade it to be the shooter you always knew it could be?”

UN12mag.com

47

MP5 FEATURE

“Just like that, the elder statesman of our collection was suddenly back in action.”

The sexier option is B&T’s Light Handguard, which is a special version of their proven aluminum

Source

MP5 handguard. This version is almost 25% lighter with practically identical construction of the legacy

B&T USA

model. It is machined with three Picatinny rails for the

URL: bt-parts.com

attachment of a foregrip, light, laser, or even your handy rail-mounted bottle opener. Attached to the rail is B&T’s quick-detach foregrip. This grip is hollow and features

Telescopic Buttstock for MP5

a bottom cover that can be unscrewed to reveal a

P/N: BT-200590

storage compartment.

Thanks to B&T’s collaborative work with Aimpoint,

MSRP: $440

our CA94 now sports a lightweight and durable red dot optic. The Aimpoint ACRO P-1 is technically made for

TL99 3x NAR Handguard

pistols but can also be used on long guns. We really like

P/N: BT-401003

its size and weight. It has a 3.5 MOA dot and sits on a

MSRP: $158

22mm B&T quick-detach optic mount. This QD mount is in turn attached to a B&T low-profile rail mount that firmly straddles the top of the CA94’s receiver. The

Light Handguard for MP5

optic package is sleek and sturdy to say the least.

P/N: BT-212433

Finishing off our clone’s makeover is a Magpul SL

MSRP: $271

Grip Module along with a Magpul ESK selector. We feel the grip and ambi safety help modernize the classic

QD Foregrip Short Version

design. And the final piece to this build was the MFI faux suppressor to hide the skinny barrel. Yes—it’s just

P/N: BT-211564-BL

for looks, but we think it fits the aesthetic of the carbine

MSRP: $75

very nicely.

And just like that, the elder statesman of our firearms safe was suddenly back in action. These upgrades,

Aimpoint ACRO P-1 w/ QD 22mm Mount

especially those from B&T, greatly enhance the utility,

P/N: AP-200510-1-BT

not to mention the looks, of the carbine. Our next step

MSRP: $599

will be adding a weaponlight and possibly a remote switch on the rail. We must admit, one quick refresh

Mounting Rail NAR Low Profile Mount

and our excitement for this gun is absolutely back in action.

P/N: BT-10266

Do you have a gun sitting in the back of your safe that needs your attention? We wouldn’t be surprised if you do. [ UN12 ]

48

UN12 / Issue 014

MSRP: $77 UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

5 UN12mag.com

49

FEATURE

Company Profile

Rifle Supply A

employee. He started his first company, an event coordination

on the celebration of firearms (and firearms culture), the

and production firm called Pacific Coast Entertainment, in 1998,

made an art of doing it. If you’re holding this magazine, chances

and has been running his own business ever since.

Koukios’s fascination with firearms began several years

are good you’re an enthusiast yourself, if not a full-fledged

later, in 2006, when he purchased his first gun. The infatuation

customizer. It’s a hobby that brings together people from all

was immediate, and, as he tells it, he purchased more than 40

backgrounds, social strata, and income brackets.

additional firearms by the end of the following year. A few years

For a fortunate few, gun building and customization grows into

later he began selling firearm parts online as a side business.

something much more than just a hobby, or even an obsession.

After seeing some success in that game, and seeing a new

For those people who have a talent for such endeavors and can

potential business opportunity, he established Rifle Supply in

pair it with a healthy dose of business acumen, it can become a

April 2015. About a year after that, he sold his event company

literal way of life.

to devote his full attention to this new enterprise. It was around

California businessman John Koukios is one such person.

this time that he applied for and secured a firearms license and

Rifle Supply in sunny, surf-sprayed Huntington Beach is his

opened up the brick-and-mortar Rifle Supply retail shop. The rest

passion project and his full-time job. Koukios started working

is history.

early in life, as a teenager, but has always harbored an innate

UN12 / Issue 014

Images by JERRY TSAI

s we’ve stated many times, this publication was founded

accessorizing and customizing thereof, and the artisans who’ve

50

Text by ROLAND WILKES

Retail was just the beginning. Rifle Supply is a gun store in the

entrepreneurial spirit. He figured out early on, at the tender age of

traditional sense, where customers may physically walk in and

17, that he wanted more from life than to just be someone else’s

browse the inventory, but it has also grown into something much

UN12mag.com

51

Profile: Rifle Supply more. Full custom builds are available, as well

laser engraving. The finishing department is also

as customization of existing builds and access

equipped to have various parts as well as full

opportunity to go all out with our creativity and skill

to a full range of gunsmithing capabilities. Over

firearms shipped in, which allows Rifle Supply

sets, which led us to bringing together multiple

the course of a half a decade, the company’s

to take jobs from all around the country (which

departments—design, Cerakote, laser engraving,

reputation has grown far beyond the Golden

they do).

gunsmithing—to deliver a one-of-a-kind firearm,”

State and, for that matter, the West Coast.

On the Desert Eagle build: “We had the

In addition to marketing its own bespoke rifles,

Koukios says. “Our favorite builds come from

they also distribute goods online and at the

customers that come to us with a unique idea and

at a new location in Huntington Beach that’s

physical location from such respected suppliers

vision that allow us to work our magic and create

approximately four times the size of the

as Magpul, Aero Precision, Strike Industries,

something amazing.”

original. It houses the retail store and expanded

Kimber, SureFire, Vortex Optics, Geissele

warehouse space, but also has given the team

Automatics, and more.

Today, the Rifle Supply headquarters sits

much-needed breathing room to focus on and expand its building and customization services.

While they have moved the flagship operation,

With a name like Rifle Supply, and considering

by traffic inside the company’s main Huntington

firearms world, it’s not hard to deduce that a large portion of business is devoted to the AR-15

the original location, which now serves as the

and its various permutations, and ARs in various

center of the company’s manufacturing and

trim levels and calibers make up a good deal

gunsmithing endeavors. Featuring an in-house

of Rifle Supply’s custom work. At the Southern

CNC mill, it’s here that Rifle Supply manufactures

California location, customers may walk in a

its own AR lowers, receiver sets, builder sets,

browse a literal wall of rifle parts, chat with and

and complete guns.

ask questions of the Rifle Supply staff, and enjoy

“This has been an amazing opportunity for

much of the company’s business is still driven

the popularity of the platform itself in the custom

so to speak, Koukios and company also kept

us to give all our departments more room to

While a walk-in store may seem like something of a novelty in today’s age of digital commerce,

Beach location. “Our customers enjoy being able Bottom left: The retail area lets customers browse guns and accessories, ask questions, or enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee.

a complimentary cup of coffee.

to come in and hand-pick parts,” Rodriguez says.

“They get even more excited when they realize just how customizable we can get with a phenomenal Cerakote job on their hand-picked parts and accessories.”

As for the past year, which was challenging for any small private business in spite of being a boom-time for firearm sales, Rifle Supply’s

While ARs, along with the ubiquitous Glock

core values and mission statement dictated how

grow,” says Raul Rodriguez, Rifle Supply’s digital

pistols, are the company’s “bread and butter”—

they were able to navigate the storm, and they

media and marketing specialist. “We now have

as they are for so many customizers—the

offer some insight into the company’s business

a dedicated room for engraving work where we

Rifle Supply team doesn’t shy away from any

have two machines running constantly and a

unique sort of challenge. One notable project in

third on the way.”

the company’s portfolio is a Desert Eagle they

Custom finishing is also a necessary part

customized for Dana White of UFC fame. And

of any gun customization business, and Rifle

they’re game to work on and equipped to handle

Supply does in-house Cerakote, which has its

just about anything, from shotguns, to pistols

own dedicated area in the new HQ, as well as

like 1911s and the like, to lever-action rifles.

Bottom right: In-house Cerakoter Charles “Chuk” Loeb’s workbench always has interesting projects on it.

philosophy. Essentially it can be boiled down to this: Customer care is key.

“One thing that was key to our success was our flexibility,” Rodriguez says. “We always allowed walk-ins and stayed away from setting appointments. While this meant we would regularly have long lines, customers were typically

“Our willingness to go the extra mile keeps our customers happy.

We’ve always strived to treat them like family.”

—John Koukios

52

UN12 / Issue 014

Rifle Supply Above: Rifle Supply’s capabilities include custom laser etching on top of all the other services they offer.

Left: Custom firearm assembly is painstakingly done by hand to ensure the careful installation of parts.

UN12mag.com

53

Profile: Rifle Supply

Top left: Every custom firearm is checked for perfect fitment and functionality before it heads out to the showroom.

Bottom left: The Cerakote station is located in the shop’s expansive workshop.

Right: Charles “Chuk” Loeb is about to start on another work of art.

Bottom: Rifle Supply works with many top name brands.

Here they’re finishing an AR lower for one of their private label customers.

Rifle Supply

pleasantly surprised with how fast we could help them.”

Koukios and the Rifle Supply team are adamant about maintaining healthy customer relationships, and that’s why the physical location remains so important to the business model. It’s this customer care, guidance, and education that make all the difference. In fact, one of the major driving forces behind launching his own gun shop was his uncomfortable experiences with snarky gun salesmen all those years ago.

He elaborates: “Even when many products were hard to find with distributors, we believe our tenacity and willingness to go the extra mile kept us moving and kept our customers happy. We’ve always strived to treat them like family, so whether that means special-ordering a product we don’t normally carry, or keeping an eye out for a certain firearm, we work hard to make sure our customers feel cared for and listened to.”

And that’s why the Rifle Supply motto is “Welcome to the family.”

If you live in or ever find yourself visiting Southern California, visit Rifle Supply’s brickand-mortar location at 16291 Gothard Street in Huntington Beach. You can also find them online at riflesupply.com or follow them on Instagram @riflesupply. [ UN12 ]

54

UN12 / Issue 014

NEW

exclusively at

NOMAD DEFENSE 9F Enhanced Frame

compatible w/ Gen 4-5 Glock 17

FEATURE

56

UN12 / Issue 014

ZENITH M90-DUO Text by MARTIN ANDERS Images by MICHAEL GREY

: : AR based on an Aero Precision M4E1 receiver set : : Pistol based on a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield : : Built and Cerakoted inhouse by Rifle Supply

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57

FEATURE

W

hat do Spotify, IKEA, Volvo, and the

reworked in urban grays, satin gold, and black.

handsome firearm duo featured here all

The Cerakote was done at Rifle Supply by their

have in common? If you guessed that they all have

in-house artist, Charles “Chuk” Loeb. Loeb chose

something to do with Sweden, you’d be correct.

to cover almost every surface of both firearms,

Well, sort of. While Spotify, IKEA, and Volvo are all

including the AR’s Atibal optic and SureFire

native to Sweden, this pair of guns is not. What they

weaponlight. “The overall color and design of the

do sport though are custom Swedish-style M90

Swedish camo captures the look I was going for,”

camo Cerakote jobs, so it may be a stretch, but

Rodriguez adds. “An especially nice touch is the

we’re counting them as related to Sweden in some

gold, which provides a bit of wow factor.”

way. Let’s call them Sweden-adjacent.

The owner of this pair of firearms, Raul

We observed the Cerakote finish to be flawless and smooth to the touch. The coating was applied

Rodriguez, works at an outfit called Rifle Supply.

without excess material, allowing the feel of the

Rifle Supply is an all-in-one firearms shop located

surface underneath to seep through. Thick, caked-

in Huntington Beach, California. Keeping the

on Cerakote can interfere with functionality; there’s

2A movement alive and fighting the good fight in California isn’t for the faint of heart, but the crew at Rifle Supply are making a good go at it.

Read more about Rifle Supply as we tour their facility elsewhere in this issue. Rodriguez is employed there as the company’s Digital Media & Marketing Manager. As an avid shooter and firearm enthusiast, he especially enjoys taking on custom projects such as the one featured here.

Dubbed the Zenith M90-Duo, Rodriguez’s matching set of guns consists of a customized Aero Precision M4E1-based AR-15 pistol and Smith & Wesson M&P Shield. When asked what told us, “We wanted to hit the creative button and try something different with a bit of a twist as far as color scheme, matching guns, and compact sizes.”

The visually striking couple sports a Swedish M90-inspired camouflage pattern Cerakote job

58

UN12 / Issue 014

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his motivation to create the dynamic duo was, he

Receivers The AR pistol build is centered around an Aero Precision M4E1 receiver set.

Brace The Strike Industries PDW Stabilizer is quickly deployable with a single push of a button.

UN12mag.com

59

FEATURE

absolutely no worry about that here. Details are everything, and Loeb’s work shows that he’s paying attention to them. Take another good look at the AR pistol and M&P that make up the Zenith M90-Duo. Did you notice that the camo pattern was scaled for each firearm? The AR has a larger pattern, while

Weaponlight As with other components on the build, custom Cerakote camo covers this SureFire Mini Scout Light Pro.

the M&P’s pattern was made slightly smaller in accordance to its compact size. It’s quite a nice touch, we say.

Both the AR and M&P were assembled by Rifle Supply’s gunsmith, Paul Joseph. Let’s take a deeper look at the AR pistol first. Joseph started out with an Aero Precision M4E1 receiver set as the foundation. Aero Precision’s receivers have become the mainstay of many custom builds and it’s for a good reason. The M4E1 may have a cool billet receiver look but it is actually forged for increased strength and durability.

The upper receiver has M4 feed ramps while the lower has many innovations that make it easier to work on and maintain, including a threaded bolt catch roll pin that allows for simple installation of the catch and virtually eliminates the chance to damage the finish during installation. It also features an upper tension screw that gives users to opportunity to fine tune the fit of the upper and lower receivers using a nylon-tipped screw located in the lower’s grip tang. The lower receiver was assembled with plenty of upgrades from Strike Industries (SI) including a 15-degree grip, safety selector switch, takedown pins, and extended magazine release.

Housed in the upper receiver is a 10.5-inch Bear Creek Arsenal barrel. The barrel is chambered

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UN12 / Issue 014

Controls The interface includes parts from Strike Industries including a 15-degree pistol grip, modular bolt catch and mag release, and Flip Switch safety selector.

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

Optic The Atibal SAP 1x Micro Prism sits in an Atibal optic mount. It features a laser-etched reticle that can be seen with or without illumination.

“The visually striking pair sports a Swedish M90inspired Cerakote camouflage pattern reworked in urban grays, satin gold, and black, done in-house at Rifle Supply.”

UN12mag.com

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FEATURE

in 5.56mm and has a 1:7 twist rate. Surrounding the barrel is an 11-inch length SI Gridlok Lite handguard. The handguard features a one-piece design that minimizes weight and utilizes SI’s unique Quick Rail Detach system, which allows the handguard to be removed at home or in the field UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

quickly and without tools. A simple push and pull of the quick-detach latch removes it in seconds. This is handy in case you need to make any adjustments to an adjustable gas block or for the installation or removal of a suppressor. The m-lok compatible Gridlok also features a built-in front flip-up iron sight hidden within its topside Picatinny rail.

While many aftermarket parts grace this AR pistol, we asked Rodriguez which features are his favorites. “I like the Atibal SAP 1x Micro Prism optic for being low-profile, and its laser-etched reticle is a really cool feature,” he says. The Atibal SAP is designed to be an optic used for short range and close quarters engagements. Thanks to its exceptionally small size and weight, the SAP is suited for use in tight spaces when speed and accuracy are paramount. The laser-etched illuminated reticle can be seen with or without additional illumination.

Rodriguez continues: “The Strike Industries Grid Lock Lite made it on to the gun for its modern look

Pistol Light Streamlight’s TLR-6 is capable of casting 100 lumens of light out to a distance of 89 meters.

and light weight. I felt that the SureFire Mini Scout Light Pro was the perfect size for running it on an AR pistol. I also love how the Strike Industries PDW Stabilizer collapses into the pistol, making it super compact.”

Speaking of compact, let’s turn our attention to the matching Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 9mm.

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UN12 / Issue 014

FEATURE

UN12

E X P L O D E D VIEW

“We wanted to hit the creative button and try something different with a bit of a twist as far as color scheme, matching guns, and compact sizes.”

—Raul Rodriguez

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UN12 / Issue 014

Also decked out in M90-inspired camo, the carry pistol sports a Streamlight TLR-6 Tactical Gun

Zenith M90-Duo

Light for low-light engagements, as well as a Strike Industries’ Extended Magazine Plate, or EMP for short. The EMP extends the 9mm magazine

Aero Precision AR-15 Pistol

Smith & Wesson M&P Shield

Specifications

Specifications

Caliber: 5.56x45mm

Caliber: 9mm

Capacity: 30+1 Rounds

Capacity: 7+1, 8+1

Minimum Length: 27 in.

Overall Length: 6.1 in.

expertly stippled the M&P’s frame, Streamlight

Maximum Length: 29 in.

Weight Unloaded: 1 lb, 5 oz.

TLR-6, and SI EMP magazine extension. As you

Weight Unloaded: 8 lbs

Barrel Length: 3.1 in.

can see, the stipple work is clean and its contours

Receiver Set: Aero Precision M4E1

Coating: Cerakote by Rifle Supply

capacity by two rounds. Streamlight’s TLR-6 is capable of casting 100 lumens of white light out to a distance of 89 meters. It is available with or without a red aiming laser. The contours of both accessories match the look and feel of the M&P perfectly.

Jonathan Ramos of Texas-based Stippgrips

are deliberate. We felt that the stippling gives a good amount of added traction without biting into your hand too hard.

With supply chains stretched and demand for firearm accessories skyrocketing over the past year, we asked Rodriguez if he encountered any

Barrel: Bear Creek Arsenal 10.5-in.

Coating: Cerakote by Rifle Supply

Featured Accessories Optic: Atibal SAP 1x Micro Prism

challenges when approaching his Zenith M90-Duo

Optic Mount: Atibal

builds. “The only thing that was a challenge for a

Light: SureFire Mini Scout Light Pro

moment during these times was finding parts and

Handguard: Strike Industries Gridlok Lite 11”

making sure it all worked out,” he tells us. “We basically had to keep searching and kept our eyes peeled if anything we needed came back in stock.”

For someone who works at a gun shop that does robust business to say this, we’re hoping that supplies stabilize soon.

With its Swedish-inspired camouflage, the Zenith M90-Duo is certainly a head-turning duet.

The compact combination is a joy to handle and we’re sure that they’re just as fun to shoot.

Spending time with this pair has inspired us to want to create our own PDW-combination now. [ UN12 ]

Stabilizing Brace: Strike Industries PDW Stabilizer Magazine: Strike Industries AR-15 magazine & SI EMP Parts & Accessories: SI Mini King Comp, SI Oppressor, SI Pistol length 6 3/4” Gas Tube, SI Enhanced Low Profile Steel Gas Block, SI Angled Vertical Grip with Cable Management - Short (m-lok), SI Bang Band m-lok Covers, SI AR Overmolded Ultimate Dust Cover, SI Strike Latchless Charging Handle, SI AR Extended Forward Assist, SI AR Enhanced Lower Parts Kit, SI PDW Stabilizer, SI 15-Degree Pistol Grip, SI AR Modular Bolt Catch, SI AR Modular Magazine Release, SI PolyFlex Trigger Guard, SI Flip Switch Selector

Featured Accessories Parts & Accessories: Streamlight TLR-6 Tactical Gun Light, Strike Industries Extended Magazine Plate (+2 rds)

About the Owner Name: Raul Rodriguez Occupation: Digital Media & Marketing Manager at Rifle Supply IG/Facebook: @dangitsraul @RifleSupply / @RifleSupplyCerakote

Special Thanks: To the entire team at Rifle Supply, our owner John, Justin for always letting me do my thing, Chuk for a being a great Cerakoter not only for us but the industry, Diaz for his master work in laser engraving, Strike Industries for trusting what we can do here and coming on board with us for this build, and Jonathan from StippGripps for absolutely killing it!

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ADVENTURE

Last Line of Defense Text by JOHN PANGILINAN Images by LAST LINE OF DEFENSE

& ROCKHOUSE MOTION

T

he rise of social media is something that cannot be ignored. Within

the past decade, the ease with which we can access and share information has skyrocketed. (Whether that’s a good or bad thing is up for debate.) Some may view social media as toxic with the type of content that is displayed, yet there is also good that can come from the content creators that simply look to share their expertise and/or advice, and use their platforms for noble causes.

One such creator is Last Line of Defense. In only a few short years, Mike of Last Line of Defense has amassed quite the social media following, with more than 365,000 subscribers on YouTube and 138,000 on Instagram. Through social media he’s been able to share gear reviews, tips and advice for survival in the outdoors, and his various project vehicles, which range from a Toyota Tacoma to an all-new Ford F-250 Tremor.

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UN12 / Issue 014

: : 2020 Ford F-250 Tremor built for overland adventure : : Pending sale to raise awareness for the A21 Campaign : : Follow LLOD on Instagram & YouTube @lastlineofdefense

UN12mag.com

67

01

01

As he tells it, Mike grew up as an Army

“We decided to donate all of

brat and was exposed to a life of travel,

the money raised to a cause that I

familiarity with firearms, and survival

don’t think gets talked about nearly

techniques along the way. After college,

enough—and that’s the wild problem

he found himself in the mountains of

of human and sex trafficking. There are

Colorado and has been there for the past

over 40 million slaves in the world right

decade. His proximity to the outdoors

now,” he says.

makes it easy for him to explore the

They chose the brand-new 2020

countless trails in his free time, whenever

Ford F-250 Tremor as the platform for

he’s not at his day job or behind the

the build. Mike wanted a large truck

computer editing his next video. He often

with a high payload and a lot of power

spends a night or two on the trails, where

to go with it, and with a 7.3-liter gas

he’s able to escape and relax as well as

V8 Godzilla engine that pushes 430

practice basic survival skills.

horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque, he

With several project vehicles under

got just what he was looking for. The

his belt, the desire to build something

decision was then made to build it to

that was not just “cool” but also served

be versatile enough for overlanding

a social purpose was conceived. He

adventures, weekend camping trips—

partnered with Diamondback truck covers

and, in true LLOD fashion, the truck

to build the “ultimate adventure truck,” but

could become an ultimate bug-out rig

with the goal of selling the truck and the

if the situation called for it.

proceeds going to the A21 Campaign, a

All that said, his goal was to keep

program that focuses on ending human

things relatively utilitarian without

trafficking and modern slavery.

going overboard. One of the first mods

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UN12 / Issue 014

02

Mike’s proximity to the great outdoors makes it easy to explore in his free time, as well as hone his skills.

02

The Tremor is outfitted with an iKamper tent and an array of custom KC Hilites lighting.

01

01

was the addition of 17-inch Black

was equipped to hold additional items

Rhino Abrams wheels wrapped in

that include Pelican Cargo boxes

39x13.50 BFGoodrich KM3 tires for

for the storage of various gear. The

extra grip on the trails. Helping to add

roof rack also holds a KC Hilites Pro

clearance for the large wheels and

6 lightbar and C2 sidelights to help

tires is a Fab Fours open fender flare

illuminate the trail and the truck’s

system that can allow for up to 40-inch

surroundings at night. Additional

tires with only a leveling kit.

lighting includes KC Hilites Flex Era 4

For excursions that take the driver

fog lights and ditch lights. Inside the

off the grid to tackle trails deep in the

cabin, a Switch Pros switch controller

mountains, storage and organization

helps control all of the lighting.

were important aspects that couldn’t

The final touch was adding his own

be ignored. The inside of the truck bed

personal style to the project, which

is outfitted with a CargoEase OBA

was achieved by a MultiCam black

cargo slide and a BuiltRight Bed Slide

vinyl wrap by Image Craft in Arizona.

Rack system. Within the bed, MOLLE/

“Huge thanks to all the build partners

PALS mounting systems were installed

and sponsors,” Mike tells us in closing.

on the sides to hold multiple items in

“The truck is an absolute dream. But

place. The truck bed is covered and

I’m so much more stoked about how

protected by a Diamondback HD truck

it’ll help raise awareness and money

bed cover, and it has been paired with

for a cause that’s close to my heart.”

Front Runner load bars to hold an iKamper Skycamp 2.0 rooftop tent.

A Front Runner Slimline 2 roof rack

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UN12 / Issue 014

You can follow Mike’s adventures on Instagram @lastlineofdefense. [ UN12 ]

02

A Diamondback cover protects the bed and Front Runner load bars hold the camping rig.

02

New wheels and bigger, better tires were a must for the rugged offroading LLOD likes to do.

GET MORE OF YOUR ADDICTION IN BETWEEN ISSUES OF UN12, VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DANGEROUS GOODS.

UN12MAG.COM

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Stay up to date on the latest projects, product releases, and special promotions from our industry partners.

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 us 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.

FEATURE

DEATH WATCH

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

:: Based on a CMT Tactical Manda15 billet lower :: Mandalorian Death Watch Cerakote theme by Koted Arms :: Chambered in 5.56 NATO

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UN12 / Issue 014

AR PISTOL Text by ROLAND WILKES Images by JAY CANTER

UN12mag.com

73

FEATURE

U

nless you’ve been living under a rock for the past year or so, you might have noticed a surge

in popularity concerning Star Wars in general—and

cutting-edge, compact weapon you might expect to see

Mandalorian specifically—theme builds. We’ve featured a

an intergalactic bounty hunter carry. But both its builder,

few in these very pages (see UN12 issues 008 and 013).

eminent firearms photographer, marketer, designer, and

Being that he’s the original and therefore most visible

licensed manufacturer Jay Canter, as well as the Cerakote

representation of the Mandalorian warrior culture, many

customizer, JD from Koted Arms in Mesa, Arizona, wanted

“Mandalorian theme” firearm builds have paid homage to

to take it in a different direction to differentiate it from the

Boba Fett, the ruthless bounty hunter who pursued Han

array of Boba Fett builds—and, just perhaps, make it the

Solo in the original films.

authoritative Mando theme.

Without going too far down the very deep (and nearly

The build is centered around a CMT Tactical “Manda15”

bottomless) rabbit hole of Star Wars lore, we should point

lower receiver. This is a monolithic lower machined from

out that the problem with Boba Fett being an appropriate

7075 T6 billet aluminum, with the front half carved to

representation of the Mandalorians, especially given

resemble the classic Mandalorian

the resurgence of Mando fandom due in part to the

helmet profile. As we’ve come to

popularity of “The Mandalorian” streaming series, was that he himself was not technically Mandalorian at all (see sidebar).

74

Which brings us to the AR pistol build pictured here. It was conceived as a sort of Mandalorian theme build—a

UN12 / Issue 014

“The Cerakote color palette was selected to differentiate this build from a more common Boba Fett theme.”

01 Recessed areas around the build feature Cerakoteaccented laser engraving, which is meant to visually simulate the fictional material Beskar.

01

02 The Odin Works CQ-B brace features a skeletonized design that echoes other features found all over the build.

UN12mag.com

75

FEATURE

expect from a high-end machined lower, standard features

and a slot on the butt end for the user to fit an arm strap. A

include an integrated trigger guard, an integrated tension

Quentin Defense Fat Bastard pistol grip, itself a skeletonized

screw to help snug up the upper receiver, a screw-in bolt

unit fashioned from aluminum billet, rounds out the pistol’s

catch roll pin, and a generous flared magwell. As a very

bottom end.

subtle custom bonus, a “BH” prefix is etched in with each receiver’s serial number.

While Koted Arms provided the intergalactic flair, which

it has no forward assist provision—that features subtle

we’ll examine here in a minute, Canter, flexing his role as

windowed recesses (what the company refers to as Truss

a professional firearms designer and builder, carefully

Pockets) machined into the rearward surfaces. The upper

curated all the parts for the build. The lower is filled out

mates with a Noveske 8.5-inch barrel with a bead-blasted

with a 2A Armament small parts kit, raw titanium takedown

finish and Noveske low-profile gas block and pistol-length

pins sourced from Battle Arms Development, and a Timney

tube. A Radian Raptor SL charging handle actuates an Iron

Impact AR trigger, a single-stage drop-in unit that has

City Rifle Works S2 bolt carrier group. This particular BCG

become the builder’s go-to fire control group. The Impact

is finished in what they call Ranger Grey, a tungsten coating

is installed with Armaspec anti-walk pins and features a

featuring “Nanocomposite PVD” technology developed

straight, flat-faced shoe offering a pull weight engineered to

specifically for military and law enforcement applications.

break between 3 and 4 pounds.

The lower is completed with a Quentin Defense ambi safety selector, a bolt catch and magazine release (EMR) from Battle Arms Development, and an Odin Works pistol brace and buffer configuration. This latter piece is known as the CQ-B and includes a compact buffer tube, micro buffer and spring, and a skeletonized design honed from 6061-T6 aluminum that blends in perfectly with the build and could potentially become a conversation piece in its own right. It also includes a QD sling mount, five adjustment positions,

76

The top of the build is based around a San Tan Tactical Pillar Lite billet upper. This is a “slick-sided” unit—meaning

UN12 / Issue 014

A 2A Armament Balios Lite Gen 2 handguard in a 7-inch format enshrouds the barrel. This component, too, features

01

“The lower features an iconic Mando helmet profile and a ‘BH’ etched in with the serial number.”

02

01

02

The Radian Raptor charging handle is just one of the controls that give this AR legitimate ambidextrous utility.

A Torrent Suppressors Hades Blast Diverter gives the weapon a distinct “means business” look.

03 The Swampfox Tomahawk was developed for dynamic applications like 3-gun competition.

03

UN12mag.com

77

FEATURE

a kind of skeletonized design on its upper and lower quadrants as well as a full-length Pic rail up top and m-lok slots at the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions. To round out the upper assembly, a Quentin Defense angled foregrip

Perhaps he was as confused as this author regarding

has been installed toward the front of the Balios guard, a

the nuances of Mandalorian culture as they related to the

Strike Industries Ultimate Dust Cover (also billet) has been

character of Boba Fett, or perhaps not. Whatever the case,

installed over the ejection port, and a Torrent Suppressors

he consulted with the Star Wars fanbase when deciding on

Hades Blast Diverter is fitted at the barrel’s business end.

the color palette this AR would wear.

Targeting is accomplished by a Swampfox Tomahawk

“I have a few buddies who are super into Star Wars,”

LPVO mounted on a Warne 30mm mount. Various

Koted Arms founder, JD, says. “I was looking for a color

magnification profiles are available, and this one is a

scheme other than Boba Fett because we’ve seen it

1-4x24. According to its manufacturer, the Tomahawk

done a lot. They suggested blue because it symbolizes

is designed for what they call “dynamic shooting.” It

reliability, and black to represent justice.” According

features a throw lever for rapid magnification adjustment

to fandom, these very colors were worn by the Death

and is targeted specifically at 2- and 3-gun competition,

Watch, a Mandalorian fundamentalist sect who opposed

among other things. The AR pistol feeds from Magpul

the planet’s pacifist government at the conclusion of the

PMAG 20-round Gen 3 magazines fitted with Springer

Mandalorian Civil War.

Precision MAX aluminum base pads, which add five rounds to the magazine’s total count.

Of course, the aspect of this build that really brings it full

According to JD, taking the leap away from Fett’s signature red, yellow, and gray was actually the hardest part of the project. “We wanted something different, but

circle in terms of the builder’s original intent is the custom

also wanted to make sure we were staying true to the

Cerakote color scheme by Koted Arms out of Arizona.

Mandalorian culture,” he says. “Other than that, applying

Canter selected the parts to build the gun, but tells us he

the Cerakote was business as usual.”

gave the Cerakoter free rein when it came to buttoning up the theme.

The blue on the AR’s body, brace, optic, and magazine, and the black applied to the forward part of the handguard,

01 The ICRW S2 bolt carrier group is finished in lowfriction Ranger Grey tungsten.

02 The 20-round PMAGs are fitted with Springer Precision +5 aluminum base pads.

01 02 78

UN12 / Issue 014

UN12 Delivered YOUR NEWEST ADDICTION DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR Have the latest print issue of UN12 delivered directly to you with our annual UN12 Home Delivery Service.

Shipping is FREE in the continental US, international shipping is also available.

un12.rainierarms.com/un12-hd-service 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.

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

“The laser-etched recesses serve to pull the build together visually, so that no one area in particular stands out.”

80

UN12 / Issue 014

Death Watch AR Pistol Specifications Caliber: 5.56 NATO

the pistol brace’s lower blade, the magazine base pads,

grip, were laser-engraved by 2A Tactical LLC in Gilbert,

and the scope mount, were applied over a base of silver

Arizona, and then treated in light and dark shades of silver

in varying layers to impart the battleworn look.

Cerakote to emulate raw Beskar—a metal alloy used by

You’ll also note certain recessed sections on the build, like the Truss Pockets on the upper receiver and the recesses on the magazine, handguard, and pistol

Capacity: 25+1 Laser Work: 2A Tactical LLC Finish: Cerakote by Koted Arms

the Mandalorians to create their armor, and one that was supposed to resemble Damascus steel.

It’s a particularly nice touch that not only ties the color scheme together but also helps differentiate the raised and recessed sections of the build and pull it all together visually. The end result is that no one part or area stands out, and the overall effect makes this build the proverbial sum of its parts. That, we feel, represents the true essence of a custom firearm, and it’s something we’ll never be able to get enough of. [ UN12 ]

Featured Accessories Lower Receiver: Cross Machine Tool Manda15 Upper Receiver: San Tan Tactical Pillar Lite Billet Barrel: Noveske 8.5” Muzzle Brake: Torrent Suppressors Hades Optic: Swampfox Tomahawk LPVO 1-4x24 Parts & Accessories: 2A Armament 7” Balios Lite Gen 2 handguard, Quentin Defense angled foregrip, Iron City Rifle Works S2 Ranger BCG, Noveske gas block & pistol-length tube, Strike Industries billet Ultimate Dust Cover, Radian Raptor SL 556 charging handle, Warne Xskel Gen II optic mount, Odin Works CQ-B stabilizing brace & buffer system, Timney Impact AR trigger, Armaspec anti-walk trigger pins, Quentin Defense V2 ambi safety, Battle Arms Development titanium takedown pins, Quentin Defense Fat Bastard pistol grip, 2A Armament lower parts kit, Magpul PMAG Gen 3 (20-rd), Springer Precision Gen 3 MAX base pad

Fetts and Mandalorians Boba Fett represented the world’s introduction

it would seem, was acquiring his own set of

to the Star Wars universe’s Mandalorian race,

coveted armor.

but there is heated debate over whether or not he wore the famed Mando armor as an impostor.

The general consensus seems to be that Boba

Further insight is offered in a conversation between Boba Fett and another Mandalorian foundling in “The Mandalorian” series, where

was not technically a Mandalorian because he

Fett reveals his father’s foundling status and the

About the Owner

came to the armor by way of his father, Jango Fett,

fact that he fought alongside his clansmen in the

Name: Jay Canter

who was introduced in the second installment

Mandalorian Civil War.

of George Lucas’s prequel trilogy, “Attack of the Clones.”

Jango himself was known as a “foundling.” That

Thus it would seem Boba Fett came by his armor in a legitimate manner… the passing down of a family heirloom from father to son. So might Boba

is, he was adopted into the Mandalorian warrior

Fett be regarded as an honorary Mandalorian, as

culture and, once he came of age, adopted the

his father was, or is he merely an impostor? The

Mandalorian creed as his own. Part of the initiation,

debate rages on.

Occupation: Firearms photographer, designer, manufacturer Social: Jay Canter Photography, Violent Art Firearms

UN12mag.com

81

ARFEATURE

ELY YERIAN DESIGN

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UN12 / Issue 014

-15 :: Based on an Aero Precision M4E1 Thunder Ranch receiver set

:: Signature EYD topo pattern etching & Cerakote :: Chambered for 5.56 NATO

Text by ROLAND WILKES Images by JAY CANTER

UN12mag.com

83

ARFEATURE

E

ven in the realm of custom firearm builds,

soon able to secure contracts with the growing

there’s a certain elegance in simplicity. That’s

number of gun companies in Montana’s Flathead

the tack taken on the pictured AR build, put together and customized by Ely Yerian, founder and principal at Ely Yerian Designs (EYD).

Yerian is a native of Montana who exercised artistic

representation of a custom EYD design. The AR-15,

chambered for standard 5.56 NATO, was actually put

airbrushing T-shirts when he was 11 years old, and

together for his wife.

“The parts used were nothing over the top,” Yerian

parts, which gained him a bit of local notoriety. At

says. “We just wanted a rifle that would function

age 18 he went to work at a local garage where he

when we needed it to. But why not spray one of

apprenticed in painting custom cars.

our signature themes on it? Topo paint jobs are

Later, desiring to fund his own shop, Yerian took

a job with the local timber company and over time

saved up enough money to make it happen. Thus the founding of EYD.

Custom finishing—the processes and mindsets—

something we specialize in, so this build needed to set the bar.”

The basis for the build is a Thunder Ranch edition

Aero Precision M4E1 receiver set. The lower includes such niceties we’ve come to expect from the M4E1

being not so different between the automotive and

as a thread-in bolt-catch pin, integrated trigger

firearms realms, and guns being another of Yerian’s

guard, threaded takedown pin detent recess, and

passions, the jump to applying custom finishes to

a tensioning screw to fine-tune the fit between the

guns and related gear was a natural one. He was

upper and lower, but also a skeletonized magwell

“Guys like Yerian are the reason UN12 exists—someone who is able to take an innate artistic talent and a love of firearms and combine the two to produce something totally unique.”

UN12 / Issue 014

As noted, this particular build is a relatively simple,

straightforward one, but the finish is really a great

skill from a very young age. As he tells it, he began

shortly afterward began painting custom motorcycle

84

Valley, including Falkor Defense.

-15 UN12mag.com

85

ARFEATURE

that allows further appreciation of the customized EYD

extended to the Holosun red dot and, sparingly, to

PMAG used in the build (more on that in a minute).

the handguard.

The upper is a no-forward-assist, slick-sided unit that

has also been customized with an EYD topo design.

Precision ATLAS R-One handguard with a full-length

Yerian has these for sale on his webstore. Without

Picatinny rail along the top and m-lok attachments slots

putting too fine a point on it, Ely Yerian is exactly

around its circumference.

the kind of guy that allows a magazine like UN12

A VG6 Precision Delta 556 flash hider is pinned to the

exist—someone who is able to take an innate artistic

barrel’s far end, sort of an elegant, updated rendition

talent and a love of firearms and combine the two to

of the ubiquitous A2 “birdcage.” An Aero Precision

produce something totally unique.

bolt carrier group moves inside the Thunder Ranch

And Yerian has been looking forward to doing

upper. It is actuated by an Aero Breach ambi charging

exactly this sort of work for probably his entire life.

handle and its movements are mitigated by a carbine-

“What it means to me to be an artist is I can take

spec buffer and spring operating inside a six-position

something out of someone’s head that they’re

Mil-Spec tube. Fire control is accomplished by a ALG

dreaming and be able to put it on any object they

Defense QMS trigger. Bodily interfaces for the rifle are

want,” he says. “To make their dream or their vision

facilitated by Magpul furniture, namely an MOE SL

come true.”

buttstock and an MOE pistol grip.

Target acquisition for the rifle’s handler is

accomplished by a Holosun HS510C red dot sight

paired with a Holosun 3x magnifier. The Yerians also

have a set of Magpul MBUS sights for the gun, but they aren’t pictured here.

What really sets this gun apart from others is, of

course, the finish. Yerian is a Cerakote specialist who,

as noted, supplies custom finishing services to a wide variety of industry players. While he can handle pretty much any kind of special request, the “topo scheme” has become his personal calling card. While this

particular scheme doesn’t represent the topography of

any particular location, we reckon such an undertaking isn’t outside the realm of possibility. The earthy colors

used here are quite understated and work well with the rifle’s natural black.

The topo lines themselves are etched with a fiber

laser. They are then masked before color is applied, which might give you an idea of how painstaking

the work can be. Look closely and you’ll see places

where they negotiate the various forged markings in the receiver metal. Lines and color have also been

86

The AR feeds from a 30-round Magpul PMAG that

hosts a 14.5-inch 5.56 barrel. It also mates to an Aero

UN12 / Issue 014

He adds: “Art is taking something that doesn’t

exist, and making it exist. [ UN12 ]

-15 Ely Yerian Design AR-15 Specifications Caliber: 5.56 NATO

Barrel Length: 14.5 in.

Etching: “Topo” laser pattern by EYD

Finish: Custom Cerakote by EYD

Featured Accessories

Receivers: Aero Precision M4E1 Thunder Ranch

Handguard: Aero Precision ATLAS R-One m-lok

Optic: Holosun HS510C red dot w/ Holosun 3x magnifier Trigger: ALG Defense QMS

Parts & Accessories: 6-position Mil-Spec buffer tube w/carbine buffer, Magpul MOE SL buttstock & MOE pistol grip, Magpul MBUS sights, VG6 Delta 556 flash hider, Breach ambidextrous charging handle, Aero Precision 5.56 BCG, Strike Industries dust cover, Magpul PMAG w/custom topo finish

v

About the Owner Name: Ely Yerian Occupation: Founder, Ely Yerian Designs Web: IG—ely_yerian_designs; URL—elyyeriandesigns.com

UN12mag.com

87

PRODUCT REVIEW

AERO PRECISION EPC-9 88

UN12 / Issue 014

: : Available as a complete or stripped upper

Complete Upper Receiver

: : Choice of barrel and/or handguard length

Text & Images by JAMES YORK

S

: : BCG & charging handle available separately

“Aero Precision’s EPC line currently includes everything you need to build a 9mm or .40 S&W carbine, with plans to introduce .45 ACP and 10mm in the future.”

hooting pistol-caliber rounds out of an AR can save you money on ammo,

thereby allowing you more range time. Whether that extended range time is used for plinking or training, we’re all for it. It makes for a helluva good time, too. With so many options on the market, where do you turn when piecing together your own pistol-caliber carbine (PCC)?

In the recent past, putting together your own PCC could have been an iffy proposition. There were many questions about parts compatibility and system reliability. Oftentimes these early DIY PCCs would have various “teething problems,” such as ammo feeding and bolt lockback issues. Lucky for us, we have sailed past the PCC Dark Ages thanks to steadfast manufacturers that were hell-bent on improving things. One of the companies at the forefront

setup for your needs. Each part in the EPC-9

stripped to complete, the choice is yours. We

of the PCC movement is none other than Aero

collection, from barrels to buffers, is designed

got to spend time with the EPC-9 Complete

Precision.

to work seamlessly with one another—as we

Upper Receiver, which is available in black

have experienced firsthand.

or FDE color choices and with many different

Your mission to create your very own custombuilt pistol-caliber AR is easier than ever before

As noted, the current EPC-9 lineup allows

handguard configurations. You can even just

thanks to Aero Precision’s latest line of PCC

for both 9mm and .40 S&W AR builds. The

get a stripped upper receiver in case you want

components. This year, Aero Precision released

platform is built from the ground up to meet the

to go for a completely ground-up build. As

their version of a pistol-caliber AR, called the

severe demands of pistol-caliber blowback AR

with its matching lower options, the upper

EPC-9. The Enhanced Pistol Caliber (EPC) line

operation. The foundation of the EPC-9 line is

is machined from custom-forged 7075-T6

currently includes everything you need to build

the forged EPC-9 receiver set, which accepts

aluminum.

a 9mm or .40 S&W carbine, and the company

Glock-compatible magazines. In case you were

has plans to introduce .45 ACP and 10mm for

wondering—yes, a last round bolt hold open

configured with a threaded 16-inch 9mm barrel

those who would like a bit more grunt.

mechanism is integrated into the upper receiver.

and Aero Precision’s popular ATLAS S-One

The EPC line covers an entire network of parts that allow you to create the perfect

Aero Precision offers upper and lower receivers in differing states of completion. From

In our case, we picked up an upper

15-inch handguard. The entire unit comes preassembled from the factory and is streamlined

UN12mag.com

89

Product Review: Aero Precision EPC-9 UN0012 / ADM UIC MOD2 —

“If you have yet to dabble in the PCC world, Aero Precision’s EPC-9 line makes planning and executing your build easier than ever before.”

to be as lightweight as possible.

1:10 twist and the tip is threaded in

We also like the forward ribbed

handle and an EOTech HWS EXPS-3

Having been spoiled by Aero

1/2x28 thread pitch so it’s capable of

section on the handguard for when we

to top off what is surely going to

Precision’s craftsmanship before,

accepting the most popular muzzle

shoot with our support hand’s thumb

become our go-to range plinker and

we’ve come to expect impeccable

devices. The ejection port is sized and

slung over it. It’s rather comfy in this

weekend competition carbine.

quality and innovation built into their

contoured perfectly for 9mm casings

respect, and thanks to its narrow

products. The EPC-9 upper did

and looks so very nice.

girth it is a breeze to maneuver. The

that the EPC-9 line offers and what

We’re excited about all the options

rail includes m-lok slots for auxiliary

it represents, and we’re looking

coating on the complete EPC-9 upper

ATLAS S-One handguard already

accessory mounting. We also like that

forward to all the possibilities for

receiver was exceptional. Its contours

installed, which feels great in the hand

quick-disconnect sling sockets are

future custom builds. If you have yet

were smooth and so was the hard-

thanks to its svelte 1.5-inch outer

milled into the rail at the 3, 6, and 9

to dabble in the PCC world, there’s

anodized finish.

diameter. The S-One has Picatinny

o’clock positions.

no longer an excuse to hold out. Aero

not disappoint. The machining and

The enhancements we like the most

Our upper came with a 15-inch

rail sections on the top fore and aft

We completed our upper with an

Precision’s EPC-9 makes planning

on this upper assembly were the 16-

positions for iron sight mounting,

EPC-9 bolt carrier group, which is

and executing your build easier than

inch 9mm CMV barrel and included

but it does not extend along the top

offered by Aero Precision separately.

ever before.

handguard. The barrel features a

center for increased weight reduction.

We also added a VLTOR charging

[ UN12 ]

90

UN12 / Issue 014

02

The upper receiver’s top Picatinny rail accommodates a wide array of optics such as this EOTech EXPS3.

The EPC-9 upper’s internal cavities are slick and free of any imperfections.

03 Aero Precision shaves the middle segments from the ATLAS S-One’s top rail for reduced weight.

AERO PRECISION EPC-9 Complete Upper MSRP: From $395 ($490 as shown with 16” barrel and 15” ATLAS S-One handguard) URL: aeroprecisionusa.com

UN12

01

UN12mag.com

91

PRODUCT REVIEW

BLUE FORCE GEAR MTKN+ 92

UN12 / Issue 014

Micro Trauma Kit NOW! + Text & Images by CHARLES “CHIP” LASKY

T

he IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit) has come a long way since the beginning of the

GWOT. Even the kits carried by our warfighters into Afghanistan in 2001 were light years ahead of their predecessors that saw action during the ’80s and ’90s. And while there are numerous options for IFAK pouches on the market, there are only a few good ones. Most IFAK pouches fall into one of two categories: too small or too big.

Obviously, this is subjective. But the purpose of an IFAK must be understood before you decide what it should be.

An IFAK is for carrying medical trauma supplies that will be used to prolong your life in the event of a major injury (think gunshot wound,

“An IFAK is for carrying trauma supplies that will be used to prolong your life in the event of a major injury— gunshot wound, laceration, amputation.”

major laceration, amputation). It is not there to

need to reevaluate. Lucky for us, Blue Force Gear has developed several “fill kits” for their excellent line of trauma kits. Each one of these kits contains combat-proven items hand-picked by current and former professionals. And the fact that these kits are identical (or extremely close) to individually assembled kits in SOF units is no coincidence. The three tiers are Essentials, PRO, and Advanced. The primary contents of these fill kits are essentially the same with the differences being in the type of hemostatic gauze included.

Blue Force Gear revolutionized the IFAK market with the original Trauma Kit NOW! system almost ten years ago. Until then, most IFAKs were zippered or Velcro pouches full of medical supplies. Access problems immediately arose

save your life. The medic/corpsman/PJ/Level

variations on a theme). I discuss this further

when warfighters were injured and had a hard

1 trauma center doctors will save your life. The

starting on page 106. The contents of a

time getting to their IFAK pouch contents due to

IFAK should provide supplies that will help you

professional IFAK need to follow the MARCH

their stationary position. The Trauma Kit NOW!

stop the bleed, keep airways open, and so on,

protocol. MARCH is an acronym for the latest

(TKN) changed all that with an innovative design

so that you live long enough for professional

triage procedure for treating casualties or

that allowed the IFAK contents to be brought

medical attention. It’s not a field surgery kit, nor

providing self-aid on the battlefield. It has been

front and center regardless of the pouch’s

is it there to provide bandaids and mosquito bite

developed based on real-world experience and

position on the belt. The pouch’s Velcro flap

ointment. Unless you are issued a specific kit,

provides the hierarchy for which wounds should

could be pulled open and up, taking with it a

you owe it to yourself to seek out the best trauma

be attended to based on priority. It stands for:

folded “tray” of trauma kit supplies held down

supplies and professional instruction on how to

with elastic loops. This made self-aid infinitely

use them. Like firearms, IFAKs are designed to

Massive bleeding

easier. But in typical Blue Force Gear fashion,

be used under extreme stress. Don’t make the

Airway

they were not satisfied to rest on their success.

mistake of thinking you’re prepared because you

Respiration

bought one of everything at Walgreens and stuck

Circulation

refining their designs based on end-user

it all in a pouch.

Hypothermia / Head wound

feedback. And their latest kit, the Micro Trauma

If you were to look in the IFAKs of professional operators from several different units, chances are you’d find the same exact contents (or

Throughout the years, BFG has continued

Kit NOW!+ (MTKN+) is, in my humble opinion, Your IFAK/trauma kit contents should all be geared toward this protocol. If they are not, you

the pinnacle of IFAK design. At 6x4x2.5 inches and weighing 15.8 ounces stocked with their

UN12mag.com

93

Product Review: Blue Force Gear MTKN+ UN0012 / UNITY TACTICAL FAST MOUNTS —

Advanced Fill Kit, the MTKN+ is small enough

Along with a tourniquet staged in a readily-

to be worn at the small of the back. It features

accessible location, the MTKN+ is ready to

a Hypalon and elastic “tube” style carrier that

go for professionals and trained civilians.

attaches to a MOLLE surface. The fold-open

The Advanced Fill Kit does not come with a

Hypalon tray can be pulled from either direction

tourniquet. TQs are a given when it comes

by protruding Hypalon tabs. A small patch of

to Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC).

Velcro helps provide one more layer of security

They should not be carried in an IFAK. Since

for the removable tray. The elastic placement on

a tourniquet is the first thing to be used in a

the carrier allows enough “give” so the tray can

massive bleed injury to an extremity, it needs

be easily removed from a multitude of angles.

to be carried separately, in more accessible

This feature sets the MTKN+ apart from other

locations. The IFAK also needs to be easily

pouches of this type. After suffering a major

accessible, but does not need to occupy the

traumatic injury that causes you to access your

front of a plate carrier.

IFAK, you may not have the presence of mind or

Placement of IFAKs is always a challenge.

dexterity to remove your IFAK tray in a perfectly

The first thing to address is the size. The above

linear motion. The MTKN+ tray pulls out of the

mentioned Advanced Fill Kit is literally a perfect

carrier easily.

list of contents. But as I discuss elsewhere in

The tray folds up in a little bundle and secures

this issue, a single IFAK is only one component

with a Velcro flap closure. It can easily be

in a system. You should not rely solely on a

whipped open with gross motion to display the

single pouch to hold all the items required to

contents.

keep you from dying. But that single IFAK is the

I first saw the Blue Force Gear MTKN+ at a

starting point.

military conference and immediately knew it

Most people look at IFAKs as simply a box

was going to replace every IFAK I own. The

to be checked. They either want to fill it up as if

design is elegantly simple. It holds everything

they were a WWII medic, or they want to make

you need and nothing you don’t.

it as tiny as possible. The medic bag camp has spent too much time talking with the “nice to

With the Advanced Fill Kit, the MTKN+ holds:

94

UN12 / Issue 014

have” fairy, who says putting everything up

1x Hemostatic Quikclot combat gauze

to and including an AED in an IFAK is a good

1x 6” emergency pressure bandage

idea. After all, it would be nice to have it if you

1x Nasopharyngeal airway

need it. I’ve seen a student come to one of my

1x Occlusive dressing (chest seal) 2-pack

classes with a selection of five different sizes

1x Decompression chest needle

of forceps, a tick removal tool, five each of five

1x Pair nitrile gloves

different adhesive bandage sizes, Chapstick,

1x Emergency space blanket

3x6” pressure dressings, three chest seals, four

1x Section of tape

NPAs, two chest needles, four splints, a bottle

of Advil, a neck brace, and a bone saw (yes, a bone saw). He carried his operating room in a zip-on assault pack that attached to the back of his plate carrier. It was enough medical gear for a platoon, but he could not access it.

And the amount of stuff he carried precluded him from putting it anywhere else, as it would certainly interfere with his fighting loadout.

The tiny IFAK camp includes guys who carry the bare-minimum medical supplies because they’re either mandated by their agency or it’s on the required packing list. Contrasting with the first guy, I’ve had many come to class with a single tourniquet, 1x small pressure dressing, and a package of mini gauze. The scary thing is that some of these guys carried a gun for a living and this minimalist approach was exactly what they brought on SWAT callouts. A lot of them simply shove their medical gear in a pocket or a very tiny pouch. The argument is that they want to save weight and bulk.

The Blue Force Gear Micro Trauma Kit NOW!+ with advanced fill is the most comprehensive battle-ready IFAK in the smallest and most easily accessed package.

It does not interfere with any of my fighting loadout. This is important because my primary job in a fight is to fight. Its minimal bulk still allows for seating in a vehicle without discomfort. The ambidextrous carrier removal promises that the contents are readily available in the unfortunate event that they are needed.

While there are plenty of great IFAK options on the market, none are as comprehensive or universal as the Micro Trauma Kit NOW!+ from the Blue Force Gear med division.

BLUE FORCE GEAR Micro Trauma Kit NOW!+ MSRP: TBA Advanced Fill Kit MSRP: $140 URL: blueforcegear.com

UN12

[ UN12 ]

UN12mag.com

95

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

TRINITY NEVADA GROUND ZERO 96

UN12 / Issue 014

Slide, Barrel & Integrated Comp

: : Slide, barrel & integrated compensator package : : Available for G17, G19, G34 & SIG P320

Text & Images by DAVID “TRACERX” THORSON

J

: : Competition frame tune

ust when you think you’ve seen

about Trinity Nevada’s early beginnings,

the peak of innovation and

what makes their slides the artistic and

design in firearms, out comes Trinity

engineering marvels they are, and where

Nevada, crushing it with their integrally

the company is headed.

compensated lineup. At a glance it might look like something inspired by

UN12: When was Trinity Nevada founded,

sci-fi; however, it’s cloaking a marvel of

and what is the company’s background?

innovation, engineering, and design.

BC: Officially founded in 1998, Trinity

I was truly excited to have one of their

Nevada worked behind the scenes

“The drive is to push the boundaries of current technology and usher in a new age of firearm development.”

slides transported my way for some

providing production and development

hands-on time, a Ground Zero G17 slide

services for other companies in the

package in brushed stainless steel. On

industry. Aaron Dargatz is the owner

initial inspection, my expectations were

and heart of the entire operation. An

not only met but in fact far exceeded. This

accomplished machinist and gunsmith,

seemed to truly represent a feat of both

he does everything from R&D to actual

engineering and design.

machining and testing. The other half of

into the nuclear age. Our drive is to push

development comes from the expertise of

the boundaries of current technology and

complete firearms—yet—I mated the

Jason, our engineer, who has a Master’s

usher in a new age of firearms. Hence

Ground Zero to my L2D Combat full-size

in mechanical engineering and works

our tagline, “Disruptive Technologies

9mm frame, which is customized with a

in the defense industry. Both Aaron and

from Rogue Engineers.” This sentiment is

Tyrant CNC magwell and mag extension.

Jason are passionate and accomplished

engrained in our desire to never emulate

I also added a Holosun HS507C optic.

competitive shooters, which is where the

other manufacturers and be a “me-too”

My first rack revealed what makes the

insight into forwarding firearms technology

company.

Trinity Nevada Ground Zero superior to

stems from.

Since Trinity Nevada does not offer

any other on the market today: The slide

Our vision is to use our talents and education to advance firearm design in

separates from the compensator, revealing

UN12: What was the inspiration for the

both form and function. This is evident in

the latter’s integration to the barrel along

name?

our patented recoil-reduction technology.

with the front sight. It makes for one flat-

BC: When we think of our name, the first

Specifically the recoil of 9mm ammunition,

shooting Glock without adding additional

thing that comes to mind is the obelisk

which is not too extreme for anyone to

length or weight up front.

sitting in the New Mexico desert that

handle but could be improved upon.

marks the spot of the event that changed

The fact is, everyone is faster and more

the world—Trinity—and brought us

accurate with a .22 than a .44 Magnum.

We had the opportunity to interview Ben Cucio, Director of Sales and Marketing,

UN12mag.com

97

Product Spotlight: Trinity Nevada GZ17 UN0012 / ADM UIC MOD2 —

The reason being is it’s so much

9mm is operating on 4.5 grains of

easier to control the rise and recoil

powder, give or take, while .223 is

in a .22. So the challenge was to

25 grains.

take advantage of fluid dynamics

Our compensator is engineered

and kinematics to create a slide

to use the shock cones from the

design that would reduce recoil

detonation of the charge as it

and muzzle rise in order to have

transitions to supersonic flow.

the gun drive itself back on target.

Through the use of boundary

We engineered a way to harness

layers and transitions, we control

the wasted ballistic energy

how and where the shockwave

during discharge and redirect

is propagated. Though not

it into reducing muzzle rise and

totally scientifically accurate, the

follow-up time. The results of this

easiest comparison would be

engineering were greater than

the difference between a bottle

even we expected. To fuel future

rocket and a shape charge. We

inspiration, Aaron keeps a piece

actually use the same concept as

of Trinitite, formed from that first

the NASA scramjet, just scaled

nuclear blast that started it all in

down and altered to work at lower

New Mexico, on his desk.

velocities. What this means to the consumer is that our single-

UN12: Are there any features of

port comp functions better than

the slides you wish to highlight

anything else on the market

that a person might not notice, but

across a wider selection of ammo

are integral to its design/function?

because we’re dependent on

BC: Our compensator technology

velocity instead of pressure.

functions like nothing else on the

98

UN12 / Issue 014

In addition to the compensator,

market. Traditional compensators

our slide mass and barrel mass is

rely on over-pressure to activate

precisely calculated so the gun

the comp, where essentially gas

will drive itself back on target

pressure is vented upward in

effectively and quickly. All our

order to provide downward thrust

slides use the same patented

to mitigate muzzle rise. In contrast

scram compensator as our

to rifles, the problem in standard

Ground Zero. We have even

pistol calibers is there is just not

adapted the scram design to

a ton of gas to accomplish this.

our ported slides, Deimos and

Triton. Each product represents

all the way up to and including

tens of thousands of computer

9mm major.

simulations to maximize the fluid dynamics. Once we have a

UN12: What is the warranty on the

perfectly engineered design we

slides?

need to make it function in an

BC: Our warranty is simple—we

imperfect world, so we convert

stand behind our products for

chunks of steel into prototypes in

life. The only thing we don’t cover

our CNC machines and then put

is user error and the finish. And

thousands of rounds downrange.

even though we do not warranty

We do this multiple times for every

people’s mistakes or damage to

product.

the finish due to usage, we still give 110% to help them with tech

UN12: Do the slides work with a

support and customer service.

stock Glock frame or would you suggest they be sent in for your

UN12: What future products are

tuning?

you working on?

BC: They will work with factory

BC: We have several projects in

Glock frames. However, we do

the works at the moment, including

offer a complete tune including

a 2011 we have given our unique

upgraded trigger, trigger job,

touch.

full stipple, and setting up and optimizing the performance of

Trinity Nevada slides are available

the complete system. It’s kind

for Glock 17/19/34 and SIG Sauer

of like the difference in buying

P320 Full-Size directly from Trinity

components to build your own

Nevada, as well as from Rainier

engine or just getting a crate motor.

Arms.

Both are viable options, it just

For a closer look at a custom

depends on time and skill required

Glock 17 with a Ground Zero

to accomplish the desired results.

package integrated into the components upgrades, check

specific load or bullet weight?

out our Dueling Glocks feature

BC: The Ground Zero is optimized

beginning on page 114.

for 124 grain but will work wonders

[ UN12 ]

“The GZ17’s mass is precisely calculated so the gun will drive itself back on target.”

: : For more information:

Packages Trinity Nevada Ground Zero Complete Slide & Competition Frame Tune MSRP: $2,000

Trinity Nevada URL: trinitynevada.com Rainier Arms URL: rainierarms.com

UN12

build, along with other frame and UN12: Does it work better with a

UN12mag.com

99

FEATURE

: : Semi-auto SAW M249 : : Fires on a closed bolt : : Chambered in 5.56 NATO

100

UN12 / Issue 014

FN SAW

FN M249SA SAW CLONE

Text by MICHAEL PENHALL Images by JOHN SCOTT

UN12mag.com

101

FEATURE

Bolt The firing mechanism is a striker-style, twopiece bolt carrier, which makes the trigger less than crisp (but still a blast at the range).

Ammo

C

ustom guns are not all about wild Cerakote jobs

that FN Herstal was going to offer a civilian copy of its

or gold-toned TiN-treated barrels. Building a

iconic M249 SAW, I knew I had to own one. I already

clone of a military weapon may be one of the first things

had an aftermarket copy at the time, but it just wasn’t

one does when broaching the topic of customized

the same. I jumped on it when they first came out and

guns. Some want to build a military clone as a tribute

bought one of the first 100 limited-edition versions. In

to a particular individual, unit, or even an entire branch

hindsight, I wish I had waited for the Para model… but I

of the armed forces. Others may want to build a clone

quickly remedied that.

of what they carried when they were in the service.

102

One of the toughest parts about trying to clone a

Whatever the reason, we thoroughly enjoy seeing them.

military firearm is deciding what version you’re trying

“Cloners” are gun builders and history buffs who set

to clone. For some things that’s easy. Building a clone

out to make faithful reproductions of military firearms

of an M16A1 is pretty straightforward. They really were

from around the world and from different eras. Living

only issued one way. But when you get to things like

the Clone Life is fun and educational but can also be

the M249, things get difficult. The SAW was issued

frustrating when you’re trying to get all the details right.

to so many different branches of the military and in

Anyone who has known me for any length of time

so many configurations that you could spend more

knows that the only thing that surpasses my love of

on the accessories than on the actual firearm. I admit

building military clones is my love of belt-fed firearms.

that I have come close. Over the years, any time a

It’s something about the mechanics of it all, how the

part has come up for sale that I don’t have, I try and

machinery interacts and is driven and controlled. I have

grab it. For the most part, the M249-specific ELCAN

owned everything from a DSHK to M2 Brownings,

optic permanently resides on it, but its buttstock and

1919s and Vickers guns. But when I heard years ago

handguard will change depending on my whims.

UN12 / Issue 014

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

Ammunition doesn’t necessarily need to be stored in the quickdetach pouches, but it keeps the belts from dragging through the dirt while shooting prone.

Barrel The semi-auto M249 accepts all M249 barrels, allowing the user to switch between the shorter “Para” barrel (pictured), the longer one, or even the MK48.

“The SAW was issued to so many military branches, in so many configurations, that you could spend more on the accessories than on the firearm itself.”

The FN M249SA is one of my favorite clones because of the way I can change it up. The base gun will accept any number of components that were issued to various units

make it look like an early GWOT 249 or I can dress it up like the latest CAG MK48.

The looks it gets when you take it out to the range, and

over the years. I have been able to accumulate some of

when people walk up and ask you if it’s a real SAW, make

them, including barrels, handguards, optics, buttstocks,

it worth every dime. There have been a number of times

and ammunition boxes. Using these accessories, I can

that I have had veterans excitedly come over to the bench

Handle

Belt Fed

An integrated carry handle helps distribute the load.

Like the full-auto version, the semi-auto can feed on linked ammo.

UN12mag.com

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FEATURE

Spare Parts A quick search on your favorite firearm auction site reveals a wealth of parts for the M249 that will fit without any modification.

Handguard Substituting the railed front handguard for the traditional plastic one adds a convenient place to mount lasers and a vertical grip.

The Semi-Auto SAW The FN M249S and M249S Para are the commercially available, semiautomatic versions of the M249 SAW light machine gun. The M249 was developed by FN Herstal and adopted by the U.S. military in 1988. Like the M249, the M249S is available with an 18.5-inch (or a 16.1-inch with the Para model) FN cold hammer forged, chrome-lined barrel. Unlike the military version, both operate from a closed-bolt position for semi-auto fire. Chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, the rifle will accept both magazines and linked ammunition belts and offer a 4.0- to 6.5-pound trigger pull out of the box.

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UN12 / Issue 014

Swing Arm Used to mount the M249 on the owner’s urban assault 4Runner’s passenger-side door.

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

to handle one of their favorite firearms again. Some have even gone so far as to break it down, and they are universally amazed at how close to the original it is.

That being said, there are some key differences between this clone and the real deal. This gun fires from a closed bolt as required for semi-automatic firearms by the ATF. It also is not registered as a short-barreled rifle (because that would be ridiculous), so I had to have the Para barrel pinned and welded to meet the 16-inch requirement.

While this might be a more extreme example of a build from the Clone Life, I

“The looks it gets at the range, and when people walk up and ask if it’s a real SAW, make it worth every dime.”

chose to feature this SAW because it’s a prime example of how the firearm itself is sometimes the simplest and least expensive part of doing a “Clone Correct” build. Tracking down the right accessories, if you can find them, can oftentimes be the hardest part. [ UN12 ]

Optic

Buttstock

The ELCAN M145 was developed specifically for the M240/M249.

Buffered collapsible stock allows easy LOP adjustment.

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FEATURE

IFAK CARRY Text & Images by CHARLES

T

“CHIP” LASKY

he warrior community is full of men and women who prepare for battle. This battle could be war, policing, protecting one’s family, or

even being an avid student of the gun in open-enrollment weapons classes.

The term “combat” is not solely reserved for warfighters on some distant battlefield. Sure, a warfighter engaging an enemy in some remote valley or third-world town is participating in combat. But combat encompasses any physical struggle where you are facing an opponent that is trying to harm or kill you. Cops engaging psychotic gunman during a traffic stop are in combat. SWAT officers engaging suspects during felony warrant services are in combat. A homeowner engaging home invaders is in combat. Any time you are involved in mortal combat, it is… combat. The battlefield’s location has nothing to do with it.

The warrior community tends to attract alpha personalities. I will admit that the idea of combat and war was an extremely romantic notion to a young me. I had the honor of serving with several elite military units. Before I ever fired a shot in anger, I underwent some of the most rigorous selection and training programs available. And I thought we were pretty much invincible as I headed for my first fight. But like so many before me, my first experience of combat was not how I thought it was going to be. It was somehow louder, dirtier, faster than anything in training. I remember having a hard time seeing because there was so much smoke, dust, and debris in the air. The smell was different too.

As a very young adult, I vividly remember thinking to myself, “Mom would have a heart attack if she knew what I was doing right now.” But it was exciting. To be shot at and missed while returning fire and hitting my target was the most exhilarating feeling I’d ever felt before, during, or since then.

After my first taste, I couldn’t wait to do it again.

This feeling continued through 13 more hits. Everything changed on the fourteenth raid when I heard “man down, east alley” through my headset.

Being a new guy, I was relegated to security positions most of the time. I was with another operator and our K9 on the South/West corner of the structure.

I desperately wanted to run to my teammate’s aid. And my K9 handler battle buddy who had been on the team for several years saw my anxiousness and reminded me of the importance of holding our position to ensure security for the assaulters inside the structure.

We sat tight for what felt like hours, but what was in fact only four minutes.

Luckily, our medic was with the wounded man on the North/East corner and said he was working. The assault team exited the structure as the armored vehicles pulled up to extract us. It was then that I saw my teammate being carried to the small convoy. He had taken a rifle round in the leg. It had entered just above the knee, traveled up his thigh, and exited his hip.

His entire upper leg was flayed open, with muscle tissue bulging outward.

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FEATURE

It reminded me of a slit-open hot dog in

they tend to place things in out-of-the

a toaster oven, the insides plumping out.

way locations and pack the absolute bare

Even through my NODs, his face was pale

minimum.

from blood loss as he sucked on a morphine lollipop. Suddenly, I didn’t feel so invincible.

Many guys carry medical supplies as if they are “checking a box” rather than looking

There was a lot of blood. My teammate

at it as life-saving kit. This is a disturbing

had a tourniquet secured close to the groin

trend that I have been seeing among my

and the wound was packed with gauze and

students. It’s made more alarming because

packaged with pressure dressings. I had seen

I’m seeing it among my professional students

plenty of dead and wounded people before

as well. IFAKs, tourniquets, and gauze may

this instance. But it was different, because

not be as sexy as guns, ammo, and knives.

they were bad guys. During our AAR, our

But I promise, medical kit will be the most

team medic said he used eight rolls of gauze

important thing in your life, for the rest of your

and three pressure dressings to package

life, if you ever need to use it.

the wound, which was caused by a single

The current Tactical Combat Casualty Care

7.62x39mm bullet. One bullet required all of

(TCCC) order of priority is summed up by

that. How lucky was it that he got shot right

the acronym MARCH. It lays out the triage

next to the guy carrying a medic pack full of

hierarchy for tending to a casualty in the order

supplies? The Individual First Aid Kit (IFAK)

of importance.

each of us carried did not have nearly enough stuff to handle that type of wound on its own.

Massive bleeding

I remember thinking to myself, I need to carry

Airway

more gauze.

Respiratory

One of the ways you can differentiate a veteran gunfighter from someone who’s never

“Medical gear carried on your person is for you and you alone. It should be easily and quickly accessible, and you should know how to use everything you carry. This is serious stuff.”

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Head wound/Hypothermia I approach IFAKs and medical gear contents and placement through a simple method. Medical gear carried on your person is for you and you alone. It should be easily and quickly accessible. And you should know how to use everything you carry. You can’t count on having a medic that can get to you or a partner that can assist you. Furthermore, IFAKs and other medical supply locations should be standardized among your team.

Seconds count as a patient is going into hemorrhagic shock and you will not want to waste them looking for the downed man’s IFAK. This is serious stuff. A good team leader makes sure that every team member knows the location of medical and other mission-critical gear. Do not let your guys buy whatever IFAK they want and put it wherever

been in a fight is by how much medical kit he

they want. No matter how much they bitch

carries and how he carries it. I usually do not

about placement, decide on an optimal

share war stories. That time and those events

location(s) and train to it/them.

are sacred experiences between me and

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Circulation

There are a lot of IFAK options on the

my former teammates. But I felt compelled

market. Some are empty pouches that you

to share the basics of this story because it

fill with your own contents, some are pre-

gives context to the topic at hand—IFAKs

stocked. You can also buy pre-packaged

and preparing for the worst-case scenario.

IFAK “refill” kits. While a lot of these kits are

Medical kit isn’t sexy. It’s often thought of as

decent, the contents are specified by the

a “necessary evil” that policy mandates be

manufacturer and may not be appropriate for

carried on your person. A lot of gunfighter

your needs. If you do buy a pre-made IFAK,

virgins would much rather not deal with the

ensure you are intimately familiar with the

added bulk of an IFAK. But because they

contents and their application. For instance,

know they “need to have one on them,”

not all pressure dressings have the same

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01 03 02 04

01 The iconic LBT Blow Out Kit Pouch has been widely adopted by allied SOF units for years. A BFG Hammock provides ready carry of another tourniquet.

02 A large Ziploc bag reinforced with 100mph tape holds all IFAK contents. Homemade center tabs allow for easy opening (even by biting).

03 Standard 4” Israeli bandages fit perfectly in the ankle pockets of Crye Precision Combat Pants. It’s almost as if they were designed that way...

04 Flat-packed NAR Z-fold gauze packs are kept in the outer section of the split shoulder pockets in a Crye Precision Combat Shirt. You can never have enough gauze.

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FEATURE

UN12 closure mechanism, and not all tourniquets secure the same way. Often, sellers of premade kits fill the package with their personal preferences or with products from whomever they get the best deal. This is precisely why I prefer to build my own kit. Regardless, make sure you buy extras or training versions of everything in your IFAK so you can practice with it.

What should be in an IFAK? Like everything else, you get what you pay for. The first rule of building IFAKs is to never, never, buy one or any of the components from Amazon. There are way too many “mil-sim” China copies of kit being sold there. Don’t take a chance on your life to save $5. Only buy your IFAK contents from North American Rescue (NAR) authorized dealers or similarly reputable companies. Expect to pay between $140 and $200 for a good, fully stocked IFAK. The second rule of building IFAKs is to buy full-size items. There has been a dangerous trend of professional gunfighters buying micro/ mini IFAKs. While these tiny kits take up way less room on the belt or plate carrier, they are short-changing the user. These kits omit certain items and miniaturize others. I’ve never packed a wound and thought, “I could do this with less.” An entire package of Z-fold gauze might disappear into a wound and it will still be leaking. These micro kits are much better suited to range belts or duty belts for patrol officers who cannot walk around with enough kit to invade Fallujah every day. But if you are a warfighter or SWAT, your job is going to put you in more immediate harm’s way and you should have a full-size kit.

The third rule is an IFAK should be designed to get you started in stopping the bleed and packaging a single GSW. Where there’s one bullet or piece of shrapnel, there’s usually more.

Expect that GSWs come in multiples and will not be simple, round, through-and-through holes. Bullets and shrapnel are nasty. They’re often jagged and will tear up tissue. Even a simple circular entry wound may lead to a random maze of cavity under the skin. In the case of my wounded teammate, a single IFAK would not have been enough to tend to his wound (which was caused by a single GSW).

Your full-size IFAK should only be a starting point for the life-saving gear you should carry.

The fourth rule of IFAKs is to seek training

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by reputable professionals. I’d go even further and recommend seeking TCCC training from military combat veteran medics and corpsmen. A military medic has most likely seen and dealt with a lot worse, under the worst conditions, with little-to-no immediate resupply, and longer “drives” to Level 1 trauma centers, more often than domestic LEOs. This isolated “field medicine” has lead to a lot of

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FEATURE

01 innovative thinking and life-saving lessons.

magazines in JTACtical Solutions pouches.

modern design, it’s easy to use and is just the

While it’s unlikely a police officer will face the

These simple pouches protect the TQs from

right size to carry the items you should have

same circumstances, you never know until it

damage, abrasion, and UV exposure and

in an IFAK. It has a coated steel cable ripcord

happens. Train for the worst.

are quick and easy to access. A third CAT is

that provides access to the contents. The

carried in a T-Rex Arms TQ Holder under my

contents I have are:

Twenty years of war have taught our community a lot about TCCC. And with those

front SAPI plate. This elastic loop protects the

teachings, a lot of incredible kit innovations

CAT while keeping it very accessible. None

have occurred. Needless to say, the IFAKs of

of the placements hinder access to fighting

today are better in every way. If you’ve been

gear. The fourth CAT is in a Blue Force Gear

following me in these pages, you know that

Hammock underneath my belt-mounted

I’m a gear nerd and set up my kit in a ritualistic

IFAK. Accessing it is the same as the front

manner. I attempt to wargame as many

elastic sling TQ holder.

scenarios as possible in an effort to best set

I stage the CATs so they are ready for

go into a wound. The hemostatic agent helps to clot the blood at the source of the bleed.

• 1x NAR Z-Fold Gauze. Standard rolled gauze sucks and is super flimsy. Save it for your Halloween mummy costume. NAR Z-fold

simply remove the wrapper and slide your

gauze is tightly woven and the Z-fold staging

TOURNIQUETS

TQ into a pouch. You need to be able to get

makes controlling insertion much easier.

The first line of care in stopping a massive

some purchase on the tail and whip it open

bleed to an extremity is the tourniquet. There

into a loop, slide it over the limb, and pull the

• 1x 6” Pressure Dressing. I’m a fan of both

are several TQ makes/models on the market.

tail tight across the body—all while losing

My personal preference is the Combat

blood and possibly going into shock. The time

Application Tourniquet (CAT). I carry four

tab should not be covering the windlass clip

CATs on my person for several reasons. I have

as you will not have the dexterity to undo the

four limbs, and some bleeds may require

Velcro during massive blood loss. Max time

the application of more than one TQ. They

for my students is 20 seconds from pouch

are carried to ease access to at least one,

extraction to fully applied TQ.

regardless of my position or possession of

UN12 / Issue 014

impregnated Z-fold gauze is the first thing to

immediate single-handed action. You cannot

myself up for success.

112

• 1x Hemostatic Gauze. Hemostatic

the standard Israeli and the HH Cinch. This packages and protects the wound after it has been packed with the aforementioned gauze.

• 1x HyFin Chest Seal Occlusive Dressing (2-pack). While tourniquets are used on the extremities, any hole from neck to navel is getting a chest seal. HyFin chest seals come in 2-packs (for entry and exit holes).

limbs. And I am likely to retain at least one or

IFAK 1

• 1x Nasopharyngeal Airway (NPA) and

two of them if my gear gets shredded from a

My primary IFAK is carried at the small of my

lubricant. After the bleeding is stopped, it’s

blast or fall.

back in a London Bridge Trading Blow Out Kit

important to get the patient breathing. The

I carry three CATs on the front of my plate

Pouch. This pouch has been in use by SOF

NPA is inserted through the nasal passage

carrier. One is carried on either side of my rifle

units for a long time. While it’s not the most

and down into the throat. It helps keep an

unobstructed airway open while pinning down the tongue.

• 1x Chest Decompression Needle. The chest needle is used to vent air from the chest if it is compressing the lung(s). It literally provides an escape path for air, allowing lungs to reinflate for respiration.

• 1x Small Roll Duct Tape. Tape can be used for all sorts of things from makeshift dressings to immobilization devices.

• 1x Pair Nitrile Gloves. These are for whoever is working on me.

• 1x Space Blanket. This is used to wrap me UN0012 / CARTRIDGES FOR WEAPONS, INERT PROJECTILE or CARTRIDGES, SMALL ARMS —

up and keep me warm after the wounds have been packaged. Patients can quickly go into hypothermia from blood loss, even in extreme heat.

• 1x NATO 9-Line MEDEVAC Card. This card contains the standard casualty communication codes for all NATO forces.

While I no longer need this, it’s kept as an

02

example for my students.

• 1x QuikClot Combat Gauze I have all these items stored in a large Ziploc bag whose edges I have reinforced

• 2x Z-Fold Gauze

with 100mph tape. I even created a quick

• 1x Occlusive Dressing (2-Pack)

pull tab from 100mph tape and a cut-down

• 1x Chest Decompression Needle

plastic dowel for more purchase and easier access. This IFAK is mounted to my gun belt.

• 1x NPA

(excuses) for this. Excuses are fine right up to the point when you or a teammate is hurt and pinned down. Your team may not be able to reach you. Your backup may be 45 minutes away. Your team may not know where you are. There’s no excuse for not having enough good medical kit on your person along with

In a garrison or meeting situation, I am very

• 1x Elastic Bandage (in lieu of pressure

the knowledge of how to use it. This stuff

unlikely to be without my gun belt. Therefore,

dressing; packs flatter)

is not as sexy as guns and knives. But I

I always have a full-size IFAK on my person

• 1x Pair Nitrile Gloves

guarantee it will be the most important thing

(even if I’m not wearing my plate carrier). But all these items are just the beginning.

• 1x Casualty Card (similar to 9-Line) • 2x 2” Safety Pins

IFAK 2 I carry a second full-size IFAK on (or should I say “in”) my plate carrier in the form of a

Between the two IFAKs, I am pretty well covered. However, I do not stop there. Talk to

Kit. This innovative IFAK re-imagines the

any combat veteran and he’ll tell you that any

entire concept of carrying medical kit. Rather

place he could carry more gauze, he did. Each

than the contents being carried in yet another

of my shoulder pockets has another package

pouch and taking up valuable real estate, the

of Z-fold gauze. Likewise, each of my ankle

DTK packages everything into a ¾” thick SAPI

pockets carries another 4” pressure dressing.

plate-sized pouch. The pouch is completely

My assault pack carries several more

sealed to protect the contents from the

packages of Z-fold gauze, another couple

elements and is carried inside the plate bag,

packages of QuikClot combat gauze, another

behind the SAPI plate. I wear mine in the front

chest seal two-pack occlusive dressing, and

plate bag, and it is unnoticeable. In the event I

an extra tourniquet.

I cannot stress enough the importance of

the pull tab of the Deployment Trauma Kit

quality and quantity when it comes to medical

helps extract it, and it is torn open. I can

supplies. Gunfighting is a rough job. Do it

even open it with my teeth. The concept was

long enough and you or a teammate is bound

developed by a former SEAL and is in heavy

to get hurt. I see too many warfighters and

use with SOF units.

SWAT cops dumping medical gear, switching

The pre-packaged contents are remarkably similar to the belt-mounted IFAK I assembled.

was for me. Be safe out there. [ UN12 ]

• Sharpie Marker

Phokus Research Group Deployment Trauma

need it, the bottom of the plate bag is opened,

in your life if you ever need to use it. I know it

to micro IFAKs, and not pursuing meaningful TCCC training. I’ve heard a lot of reasons

01 Another full size/ complete IFAK is easily accessible from the plate bag.

Chances are a single IFAK is not enough to treat multiple wounds on the same person.

02 The Phokus Research Deployment Trauma Kit series adds no extra bulk to the user’s loadout, but it provides essential TCCC supplies on demand.

UN12

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DUELING GLOCKS FEATURE

Text by ROLAND WILKES Images by JAY CANTER

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G

:: Matching Glock 17 & Glock 19 Gen3s :: Custom slides, compensators & Cerakote :: Custom frame etching

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FEATURE

I

t’s been said that an armed society is a polite society. You might imagine one of America’s

Founding Fathers penning the line, or maybe it being uttered by a lawman out of the old American West. In actuality, it comes from a science fiction story called “Beyond This Horizon” by Robert A. Heinlein.

In the story, genetically optimized humans carry weapons openly as a way to maintain public civility.

Of course, this romanticized notion comes from the practice of pre-arranged combat that was employed in Western civilization since at least the Middle Ages, first as a way to settle personal disputes, then later as a way to preserve one’s personal honor.

And thus came the inspiration for the following Glock builds by UN12 contributor Jay Canter, who has built several firearms featured in these pages, including the Death Watch AR on page 72. “I just love the idea of dueling pistols from the 1800s,” he says.

“So I thought it would be dope to do a Glock 17 and Glock 19 in similar fashion.”

GLOCK 17 GEN3 The larger of the two, ideal for the duelist seeking a full-size option with a full complement of rounds, is the Glock 17. It uses a factory Glock frame that has been given a custom “stippling” treatment by 2A Tactical LLC out of Gilbert, Arizona.

Rather than true stippling, the side panels have been laser-etched with what they call a “Death Star” pattern, a sort of interlocking mosaic of lines that resembles the Imperial crest from Star Wars. To others, it might bring to mind one of the interlaced patterns from an M.C. Escher lithograph.

Either way, it’s a unique and attractive approach to grip stippling—a radially symmetric pattern that inexorably draws the eye in and isn’t really stippling at all in the literal sense.

The factory trigger is replaced by an Agency Arms flat-faced trigger, which that company has designed for a short, crisp reset—ideal for follow-up shots— and for a smoother overall travel. Its main physical feature is a flat aluminum shoe with a “tuned” and polished OEM trigger bar. Two colors are offered; this one is black.

The frame is assembled with an extended OEM slide release, a Rival Arms slide lock, and a Tyrant CNC extended mag release. The lower end has been enhanced with an Agency Arms magwell, which is designed to follow the grip’s natural contours and is thereby optimized for carry duty while still accommodating a range of extended magazine base pads. And speaking of magwells, magazines, and base pads, this build employs a factory 17-round magazine fitted with +2 capacity KE Arms pad, for a total of 20 rounds with one in the chamber.

The centerpiece of the build is of course the upper portion. This is an all-inclusive slide upgrade package from Trinity Nevada called Ground Zero, which effectively encompasses the pistol’s slide,

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G17 “The Glocks are modeled after the concept of 18th century dueling pistols; equally matched and intended for a specific purpose.”

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FEATURE

barrel, and a neatly integrated compensator

pleasing as well as functional, something we love to see.

complete with fiber-optic front sight.

The benefits of this upgrade are manifold, particularly as

The slide itself features enhanced serration cuts

that it imparts no additional length, features a threadless

racking it. An RMR cut is also included for a Trijicon

anti-rotation design, and is, according to Trinity Nevada,

red dot, but can obviously accommodate anything

50-state legal. The barrel and compensator assembly

with an RMR footprint. Canter opted for a Riton

is gold titanium nitride (TiN) coated and forms a rather

Optics X3 Tactix PRD with a 3 MOA dot.

dramatic contrast with the Black MultiCam Cerakoting

As noted, Trinity Nevada offers this package as an all-inclusive upgrade for the G17’s top end, so

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far as the compensator is concerned, including the fact

to afford the user greater purchase when manually

on the slide (more on that in a moment).

For retail customers, Trinity Nevada offers the Ground

it includes a match-grade barrel with an integral

Zero top-end upgrade—we hesitate to call it simply a

compensator. Engineered as this package is

slide treatment, since it’s clearly so much more than

as a holistic upgrade, the compensator blends

that—as a complete package that includes a frame

seamlessly with the slide portion so it’s aesthetically

tune with the company’s proprietary locking block

to ensure proper functionality. After shipping the frame, customers may opt for further upgrades including trigger tuning and frame stippling. Various finishes are also available for the slide, barrel, and compensator, including the pictured TiN, DLC, Cerakote, or brushed stainless.

While this pistol wears the TiN plating on barrel and compensator, Canter had the rest of it finished

by Koted Arms out of Mesa, Arizona. It’s a Black MultiCam Cerakote that is applied to the frame everywhere but on the textured panels on the sides, backstrap, and finger grooves, to the slide portion of the Trinity top end, to the magwell, and to the magazine base pads.

The Duel

It’s probably safe to say that

practiced in the West grew out of

expressing a willingness to die

for as long as humans have

the medieval judicial duel (trial by

for it.

existed, fights have been used

combat) or older pre-Christian

to settle disputes. But rather

practices such as the Viking

way to settle disputes until the

than being just an impromptu

holmgang.

turn of the 20th century. One of

brawl between two people

Melee weapons were the

Dueling was employed as a

history’s most infamous duels

who disagree over something,

most common means of dueling

took place in 1804 between

dueling in the classic sense was

before firearms began to take

Alexander Hamilton and Aaron

a more formalized affair that

their place in 18th century

Burr (at the time Secretary of the

followed a certain formula and

England—pistols specifically.

Treasury and Vice President of

code of ethics.

And thus the formal duel

the United States, respectively),

became potentially even more

with grave consequences for

as the following: “An arranged

lethal. But although it may seem

both men. While Hamilton

engagement in combat between

somewhat counter-intuitive,

pointed his pistol away from his

two people, with matched

duels were often not fought with

opponent, into the trees, Burr

weapons, in accordance with

the express purpose of killing

shot to kill. Hamilton died; Burr

agreed-upon rules.” Historians

one’s opponent, but effectively

was shunned, vilified, and never

believe the formal duel as

to defend one’s honor by

again held high public office.

Wikipedia defines the practice

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FEATURE

GLOCK 19 GEN3 The more compact of the two, so perhaps favored by the duelist seeking a more discreet carry, is the Glock 19. Like the 17, it also uses a factory Glock frame that has been treated by 2A Tactical LLC. The side panels have been etched with what Steve at 2A has dubbed the “SIG” raindrop pattern, which gives it a scaled effect that’s visually much different than the interlocking pattern on its G17 bigger brother, but no less intriguing. As with the other pistol, when combined with the Cerakote it serves to draw the pistol’s aesthetic into distinct sections that dynamically break up the Glock’s natural homogenized, ho-hum (that is to say, boring) aesthetic.

The frame is assembled with an extended OEM slide release, a Rival Arms slide lock, and a Ghost Inc. extended mag release. The factory trigger has been replaced by a ZEV Technologies trigger, also with a flat face but with a contrasting red safety lever and trigger connector included. The lower end has been enhanced with a ZEV Pro Compact magwell, which is flared at the base to enhance quick magazine insertion and designed specifically for Glock compact models like this 19. The build also employs factory 15-round magazines fitted with +3 Springer Precision aluminum base pads. With one round in the chamber, its total capacity is only one cartridge off that of its G17 sibling.

As with the G17 listed above, the centerpiece of the build is the upper portion. The slide is a Velocity V1 from Killer Innovations. It features KI’s proprietary Enhanced Grip Feature (EGF) cuts that are designed to offer positive “walls” the operator can push against when manipulating the slide. EGFs are etched into both the slide’s front and rear portions.

The slide also includes an RMR cut where, as with the G17, a Riton Optics X3 Tactix PRD with a 3 MOA dot has been installed.

The Velocity slide houses an Agency Arms fluted and threaded barrel also treated with gold-hued TiN. Threaded onto the tip we find a Killer Innovations Velocity compensator. This comp, while attached in a more traditional way versus the integrated Trinity Nevada comp, features toolless installation and a design that allows it to sink all the way onto the thread shoulder for superior bore alignment compared to compensators that are secured by clamps or set screws.

The upper portion of the build was completed with a Rival Arms slide completion kit with all internal parts and a Classy Raptor Tactical honeycomb back plate with a brassy finish that visually echoes the TiN gleam of the barrel. Trijicon suppressor-height sights have also been installed front and rear for a true analog cowitness to the RDS.

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G19

As with the G17 build, Canter had the exterior

Cerakoted by Koted Arms. Once again it’s a Black

MultiCam Cerakote that was applied to the non-textured

They represent two very similar, but at the same time individualistic and distinct, riffs on the theme.

For his part, Canter is mum on which Glock he’d prefer

portions of the frame, to the slide, to the magwell, and to

in, say, a range plinking duel. We know which one we’d

the magazine base pads.

choose. How about you? Let us know on our socials, and be sure to tag us when you do.

While we have to wonder about the significant

[ UN12 ]

firepower advantage either one of these Glocks would hold over a single-shot flintlock pistol from the 18th

century, we wholly approve of the concept behind and the method of execution for both of these projects.

“Each slide is modified for optimized operation; each match barrel is TiN-coated and compensated.”

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Glock 17 Gen3 Specifications Caliber: 9mm Capacity: 19 + 1 Length: 7.25 in.

Height: 6.75 in.

Stippling: “Death Star” pattern by 2A Tactical LLC Finish: Black MultiCam Cerakote by Koted Arms

Featured Accessories Slide: Trinity Nevada Ground Zero Barrel: Trinity Nevada, TiN coated Compensator: Trinity Nevada Ground Zero, integrated w/barrel Optic: Riton X3 Tactix PRD Parts & Accessories: OEM Glock G17 Gen3 frame, Dawson Precision fiber-optic front sight, Bastion stainless frame pins, Agency Arms flat-face trigger, ZEV Technologies trigger connector, OEM extended slide release, Rival Arms slide lock, Tyrant CNC extended mag release, Agency Arms magwell, OEM Glock magazine (17-rd) w/KE Arms +2 base pad

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

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Glock 19 Gen3 Specifications Caliber: 9mm Capacity: 18+ 1 Length: 8.25 in.

Height: 6.75 in.

Stippling: “SIG” raindrop pattern by 2A Tactical LLC Finish: Black MultiCam Cerakote by Koted Arms

Featured Accessories Slide: Killer Innovations Velocity V1 Barrel: Agency Arms, TiN coated, threaded & fluted Compensator: Killer Innovations Velocity Optic: Riton X3 Tactix PRD Parts & Accessories: OEM Glock G19 Gen3 frame, Trijicon suppressor-height sights, Bastion stainless frame pins, ZEV flat-face trigger, connector & trigger safety, OEM extended slide release, Rival Arms slide completion kit, Ghost Inc. extended mag release, ZEV Pro Compact magwell, OEM Glock magazine (15-rd) w/Springer Precision +3 aluminum base pad

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PRODUCT REVIEW

JERRY MICULEK 124

UN12 / Issue 014

Magnetic Buffer System Text & Images by JOHN SCOTT

T

here are plenty of reasons why so many products have been invented and

produced to help temper the recoil impulse of a firearm. For the AR-15 platform in particular, there are a dizzying number of muzzle devices, adjustable gas blocks, buffers, and action springs made with the express promise of helping tame your rifle’s recoil.

While a 5.56 or .223 cartridge may not possess the kick of some larger calibers, reducing recoil can provide plenty of benefits nonetheless. The smoother the recoil impulse of your rifle, the quicker you can get off accurate follow-up shots.

We’ll take any advantage we can get. For some, the quest to reduce the recoil of firearms has even become an outright obsession.

There are many ways to help your rifle mitigate recoil. One of the most common ways is by using an aftermarket buffer. Buffers come in many flavors; some have different weights and different lengths, while others are made of different materials. There are hydraulic ones that work similarly to your car’s shock absorbers and even those that contain configurable captured springs. The innovations seem endless. We’ve

“The system uses magnetic polarity to temper the rifle’s recoil impulse. Infinite adjustability allows you to tune your rifle for any setup, including lowor high-power ammo, different barrel or gas system lengths, or the use of a suppressor.”

tried all of these buffers and even combined

polarities against one another to add or decrease pressure, which in turn help the buffer’s piston to soften or stiffen as the magnets are moved closer to or farther from one another. The buffer weighs 3.25 ounces, but thanks to its magnetic properties can act as a much heavier buffer without the extra added weight.

There’s a large set screw at the opposite end of the piston can be turned with a screwdriver.

As it is screwed into the body, it moves the magnets closer together for increased piston pressure. When the screw is backed off, it moves the magnets apart, decreasing the pressure.

The result is an infinitely adjustable buffer that does not rely on any moving parts aside from the buffer’s piston.

Infinite adjustability allows you to tune your rifle for any setup, including low- or high-power ammo, different barrel and gas system lengths, the use of a suppressor, or anything else you can think of. It operates silently, and as the magnets come closer together the piston’s pressure is increased exponentially. It is said that a stronger buffer setting helps slow down the rifle’s cyclic rate, which results in a smoother-shooting gun.

It installs just like any other buffer. Simply swap

them with all sorts of other recoil-reducing

balance that the rifle needs to run as smoothly

out your existing buffer for the Miculek magnetic

apparatus. The results of all this experimentation

as possible. The magnetic buffer uses the magic

buffer. It’s recommended to tune your rifle by

have been varying levels of success.

of opposing magnetic polarities to dampen the

loading only one round in the magazine. Fire a

recoil impulse.

single round and turn the set screw half a turn

The hottest buffer to hit the market in recent times comes from one of the fastest, if not the

Unlike most other buffers, the Miculek buffer

fastest, shooters of our time: Jerry Miculek. The

does not have any weights moving around within

innovative Miculek Magnetic Buffer System uses

the body, nor does it rely on hydraulic fluid or

magnets to help tune the buffer for that perfect

even springs. Instead, two magnets use their

each time until your rifle reliably locks back on the empty mag. It’s that easy.

We spent the day at the range with the Miculek buffer and tuned it for several ARs set up in a

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Product Review: Miculek Magnetic Buffer UN0012 / UNITY TACTICAL FAST MOUNTS —

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UN12 / Issue 014

“As the screw moves into the body, the magnets move closer together for increased pressure.

Backing the screw off moves them apart for decreased pressure.” variety of ways. We were able to get each of our test rifles tuned easily and did notice a reduction in recoil. When firing double taps at the A zones on cardboard targets, we scored quicker split times on the shot timer than with our standard buffers. We really liked the silence of the buffer and felt that the rifles simply felt smoother and flatter to shoot.

There are many products that have been invented to mitigate recoil and we’re definitely excited about the Miculek Magnetic Buffer System. This buffer is available exclusively at Big Daddy Unlimited with a street price of $99. It may not be cheap, but the performance and versatility it brings to our rifles are worth it in our book.

MICULEK Magnetic Buffer System MSRP: $119 URL: bigdaddyunlimited.com URL: miculek.com

UN12

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FEATURE

Customization

Custom Knife Text by CHRIS LEE & JOHN SCOTT Images by CARLO CABREJOS

J

ust like the custom guns we feature,

mind behind the incredible blade seen here.

we love unique knives as well. The

Called the Mini Ryu, this pocketknife features

featured knives you tend to find in these

a profile that harkens back to Japanese

pages are usually personal blades that

blades of old, but with a decidedly modern

have been customized by their owners.

twist added to it.

This knife’s story deviates from that format

knives that blend Old World knowledge with

made by a master knifemaker whose blades

modern materials, knifemaking methods,

are sought-after by collectors worldwide.

and styling. Their knives are instantly

Edison Barajas is the owner and operator

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UN12 / Issue 014

Sharknivco is known for beautifully crafted

to focus on a truly outstanding pocketknife

recognizable and wait times for buying

of the bespoke bladehouse, Sharknivco. He’s

one are consistently long. As we saw for

also the brand’s knifemaker and the creative

ourselves, it’s worth the wait.

: : Mini Ryu folding pocketknife : : Crafted by Edison Barajas, Sharknivco : : Chad Nichols Armor Core & Moku-Ti Damascus steel

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Customization: Knives

01 The handle is crafted from Chad Nichols metal of the Moku-Ti variety; it’s polished near the top to show off the Damascus layering.

Specs Model: Mini Ryu Blade: Chad Nichols Armor Core Damascus boomerang pattern Handle: Chad Nichols MokuTi tread pattern w/high polish & “avocado” texturing Pivot & Back Spacer: Chad Nichols Moku-Ti Pocket Clip Material: Zirconium sculpted & polished MSRP: Not listed IG: @sharknivco

02 The handle’s “avocado” texturing adds both grip and a visual gradient versus the smooth, polished top.

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UN12 / Issue 014

“Sharknivco is known for beautifully crafted knives that blend Old World knowledge with modern materials, knifemaking methods, and styling.”

With an artisan’s touch, Barajas crafted the Mini Ryu’s blade out of Chad Nichols Armor Core Damascus steel, which features a “boomerang” pattern. The blade’s steel is made in America, namely in Blue Springs, Mississippi. Other than its inherent beauty, it’s said that Damascus blade steel tends to stay sharper and can hold an edge for longer. All we can say is that we wanted to hold this knife for a longer time than we had with it. It swings open with ball-bearing smoothness and feels well-balanced in the hand.

The knife’s handle is also made out of Chad Nichols metal, this time of the Moku-Ti variety, in the company’s a highpolish tread pattern. The handle was then

03 The pocket clip is fashioned from zirconium and polished to a near mirror finish.

finished off with an “avocado” texture for enhanced traction and a scintillant look that’s simply memorizing. Matching the

craftsmanship. The look of it is head-

handle, the Mini Ryu’s pivot and back

turning to say the least. If you’re interested

spacer are also made of Chad Nichols

in a knife from Sharknivco, we advise you

Moku-Ti. Barajas sculpted the pocket clip

to get in line as soon as you can, ’cause

out of exotic zirconium and then finished

we’re ready to put our names on the

it off by polishing it. We’re sure you’d

reservation list, too.

agree that the knife is a stunning piece of

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DEPT.

Competition & Training

Shoot This Drill SHOOTING FROM RETENTION

T

he skill of firing accurate rounds into a threat from retention is an under-appreciated and under-practiced skill. Shooting from

retention at close ranges can help ensure a threat is unable to gain control Text by JOE WEYER

of your firearm during an altercation at contact distances. In addition,

Illustrations by CHARLES “CHIP” LASKY

shooting from retention can help to reduce the likelihood of malfunctions caused by interaction between the threat and the firearm, or even due to

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the increased support the shooter is able to provide the gun while firing.

Including retention as a part of the draw stroke can be one of the most important aspects of developing the skill of shooting from retention. In addition, having retention as part of the draw stroke ensures that the shooter will have the ability to shoot from retention if the need arises.

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Competition & Training

SETUP: SHOOTING FROM RETENTION Target: 8.5x11” paper with a 6” circle Distance: Varies—begin at arm’s length from the target.

Number of Rounds: Varies—multiple rounds. Continue to meet objectives.

Start Signal: Use a start signal of your choice.

CONDUCTING THE DRILL 1) Position yourself within reach of the target. On the start signal, draw the gun from the holster to retention and fire two rounds into the black circle. Create distance, drive the gun to full extension as terrain allows, and continue to assess. Make necessary adjustments to your retention position and then recover to the holster. Close the distance to the target and repeat until you are able to place 100% of the rounds into the circle.

2) Position yourself within reach of the target and then take one step away. On the start signal, draw the gun from the holster to retention and fire two rounds into the black circle. Create distance, drive the gun to full extension as terrain allows, and continue to assess. Make necessary adjustments to your retention position and then recover to the holster. Close the distance to the target and repeat until you are able to place 100% of the rounds into the circle.

3) Continue to walk the drill back until you are unable to refine your retention position to achieve the desired 100% hits.

4) Step back toward the target and repeat the drill until you place 100% of shots inside the circle.

IMPORTANT NOTES ON THE RETENTION POSITION

Your gun should be canted slightly outboard to help

In a proper retention position, the elbow and shoulder

ensure the slide can travel freely when fired. It is important to

blade should be drawn fully to the rear with a significant

ensure that your support hand comes to a high index next to

amount of tension. Adjustment of your retention position

the face. In real life and on the range, this ensures the hand

(or aiming) is achieved with the elbow. To control elevation,

is away from the muzzle, preventing self-injury. In a critical

move the elbow up or down. To control windage, move the

incident, the high index of the hand provides the ability to

elbow right or left.

defend and protect the head from an attack.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Joe Weyer created Weyer Tactical after years of law enforcement and military experience. He began his career serving in a Special Operations unit in the Army in the late 1980s. He had a strong desire to bring his knowledge and experience from the military to the public, so he became a police officer with Alliance Police Department and received training from some of the best instructors in the United States and abroad. Operationally, Weyer has participated in and led more than 300 critical operations, from protective details to high-risk warrants to barricades. He is a state-certified firearms instructor in multiple weapon platforms, certified instructor through Homeland Security in several counter-terrorism topics, and an NRA certified instructor. He has taught hundreds of military personnel, police officers (both domestic and foreign), and qualified citizens in various use-of-force disciplines ranging from basic and advanced handgun to carbine and shotgun. In addition to being a full-time police officer, Joe Weyer is team commander of the city’s Special Response Team, Region 5 Training Coordinator for the OTOA, and the owner of Weyer Tactical.

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OBJECTIVES: • THE SHOOTER WILL INCREASE THE ABILITY TO PLACE ROUNDS INTO THE HIGH CENTER CHEST OF A THREAT AT REASONABLE DISTANCES. • THE SHOOTER WILL DEVELOP A REALISTIC CONFIDENCE IN HIS ABILITY TO PLACE ROUNDS INTO THE HIGH CENTER CHEST AT VARIOUS DISTANCES.

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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Pitbull Tactical Universal Mag Carrier I

have several plastic bins that are packed full of ancillary pistol gear. I’m talking about the stuff

that you accumulate when “moving into” a new pistol, like holsters and magazine pouches.

It’s one thing moving from one Glock to another; chances are there’s some accessory crossover that tempers the need to buy a whole set of new gear. But what happens when you decide to try out a new make and model? The need for a new holster is practically a given, and there’s a good chance that you’ll need new magazine pouches, too. It follows that the cost of adding a new pistol to your stable can climb rapidly.

This is where Pitbull Tactical steps in with their

The Universal Mag Carrier Gen 2 can be used inside

Text & Images by JAMES YORK

insertion into the pouch is smooth and the carrier

or outside the waistband on any 1.5-inch-tall belt. The

retains the mags very well, even when you’re moving

carrier may look slim, but as a magazine is inserted

quickly over uneven ground. Drawing a mag is just as

“Polymer and stretchy synthetic allow it to conform to the shape of singleand double-stack magazines.”

trouble-free as inserting it.

For the color-conscious, the pouches are available in three colors: black, FDE, and OD green. We’re glad to know that gone are the days of buying magazinespecific pouches. Thanks to Pitbull Tactical, we’re sure to save plenty of money on mag pouches. We are instead looking forward to spending it on more ammo. [ UN12 ]

Universal Mag Carrier. With the aim to cut down shooter costs by offering a mag carrier that can hold

the Universal Mag carrier dynamically conforms to the

almost every magazine out there, this innovative

mag’s size, gripping it snugly but not overly tight. The

magazine pouch promises to fit all your magazines,

carrier’s flared opening and rigid design allows just

with a few exceptions. The carrier is constructed of

about any size magazine to be inserted with ease. The

polymer and a stretchy synthetic material that allows

short list of exceptions is posted on the company’s

Universal Mag Carrier Gen 2

it to conform to the shape of single- and double-stack

website.

MSRP: $25

magazines varying from 9mm to .45 ACP. When not in

We were successful in using the pouches with

use, the carrier returns to its thinnest profile, keeping

single-stack .45 ACP 1911 mags as well as 9mm

out of the way.

double-stack SIG P320 and Glock mags. Mag

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UN12 / Issue 014

: : Pitbull Tactical

URL: pitbulltactical.com

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

@battlearms

@brown_bear_arms

@darkstormnorm

@falkor_defense

@rogue_gunn_works

@strikeindustries

@tahoeadventures

INSTA-14

Popular IG tags to follow: #bestgunsdaily #gunfunatics

@violentartfirearms

Win glory for yourself and your collection and gain

#firearmphotography

hordes of IG followers. Tag

#gunspictures

if you’d like a chance for your

#un12mag

future issue of UN12.

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

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137

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

CA

MI

TX

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

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

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

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

ND

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

Kings River Coatings 2491 Avenue 400 Kingsburg, CA 93631 Tel: (559) 246-6426 URL: yooying.com/ kingsrivercoatings Tactical Pro Shop 3503 W. Burbank Blvd.

Burbank, CA 91505 Tel: (818) 468-7837 URL: tacticalproshop.com

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

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

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

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

NH

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

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

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

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

Wade’s Eastside Guns 13570 Bel-Red Rd. Bellevue, WA 98005 Tel: (425) 649-5995 URL: wadesguns.com

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

CANADA Canadian Tactical Cowboy Supplies URL: ctcsupplies.ca

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

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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P320 CUSTOM WORKS FIRE CONTROL UNIT

Introducing the P320 FCU (Fire Control Unit).

With it’s unprecedented modularity and unmatched capability, the P320 platform has become one of the most exciting pistols available to firearms enthusiasts today. The soul of the P320 and the driving force behind its modularity lies in the unique, patented design of its Fire Control Unit (FCU).

Now, SIG SAUER is offering the FCU as a standalone product, enabling an entirely new level of customization and personalization, giving users the ability to create virtually millions of combinations to suit any need and any level of personal style.

MADE IN U.S.A.

WWW.SIGSAUER.COM/P320FCU