BUYER’S GUIDE BUDGET KNIVES
PG. 46
GUN LIFESTYLE: GEAR • TECHNOLOGY • SPORT • OUTDOOR • HOME & PERSONAL DEFENSE
PG. 78
PG. 130
Jaxx Industries, SIG SAUER, Medford Knives, Lead Faucet Tactical, PG. 8
RUNNING GUNS IN KABUL THE SKS-M SPIKED AND READY EXPERT ADVICE ON CCW MEDICINE ZEROED IN: ROBERT YOUNG PELTON ROYAL CANADIAN REGIMENT MUSEUM
ISSUE 38
BOLLINGER B1 PG. 36
VICKERS
AK BOOK
PG. 118
™
THE RUGER AMERICAN PISTOL IS DESIGNED WITH THE TOUGHEST STANDARDS IN MIND. ®
Short Takeup Trigger with Positive Reset
Anything Else Would Be Un-American.
™
Designed with the latest U.S. Military standards in mind, the Ruger American Pistol is built to perform ®
in the harshest conditions. A true American innovation, this pistol was developed through a rigorous “Voice of the Customer” process – where numerous law enforcement and military trainers, firearms experts,
Recoil-Reducing Barrel Cam, Low Mass Slide, Low Center of Gravity and Low Bore Axis
distributors and retailers provided input, feedback and testing in the determination of the form, function and features of this firearm. The resultant new pistol is a revolutionary platform for Ruger, one that utilizes the combination of a recoil-reducing barrel cam (which is designed to better spread recoil energy over time) with a low mass slide, low center of gravity and a low bore axis to provide an unparalleled shooting experience.
Genuine Novak ® LoMount Carry Three-Dot Sights
Modular Wrap-Around Grip System for Adjusting Palm Swell and Trigger Reach
Safe, Easy Takedown with No Tools or Trigger Pull Required
Ambidextrous Slide Stop, Manual Safety and Magazine Release Allow Actuation with Either Hand (Pro Models Come without External Safety)
Complete Your Ruger American Pistol® with the Officially Licensed Blade-Tech® Total Eclipse Holster at Your Local Retailer or Online at ShopRuger.com
BUILT TO PERFORM IN THE HARSHEST CONDITIONS.
RUGER.COM/AMERICANPISTOL
© 2017 Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.
010317
58 IS S U E 38
FEATURES 58
THE HOTTEST CASHIER AT DOLLAR TREE Dressing up an SKS-M as a Chinese Type 84, But Better
70
TAMING THE BEAST Using Your Mary-Sue Suppressor on an AK Variant
78
70
78
HEBREW HAMMER Jaxx Industries Recreates the Rarest of Galils
92
RUNNING GUNS IN KABUL The Arms Trade Fueling the “Never-Ending Conflict”
106
TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING? The D&L Sports SLR Hybrid — an Elite AK or a Solution Looking for a Problem?
116
92
JUST LIKE MOM USED TO MAKE Petronov Armament’s New Receivers May Be the Closest You Can Get to a “Real” AK Without a Passport
118
FROM RUSSIA WITH LAV
106
118
130
116
The Past and Future of Russian Firearms
130
COBETCKa TO HOCTb The Plumb PSL: Modernized Com-Bloc
142
BEYOND BULLETS Two Experts Give Us Their Input on Best Practices for Concealed Carry Medicine
142
IS S U E 38
DEPARTMENTS 8
ON THE COVER
12
DOWNRANGE
52
BUILDSHEET 7.62x39 AR
Editor’s Letter
154
ZEROED IN Robert Young Pelton
20
INCOMING New Gear
28
36
168
PT Nutrition and Supplement for Strength and Size Gains
VISIT Royal Canadian Regiment Museum
176
SHOW US YOUR TATS
TRANSPORT
178
GOING HOT
Bollinger B1
46
UNUSUAL SUSPECTS Budget Knives
36
FIREARM SAFETY IS TOP PRIORITY RECOIL reminds you to be safe and always obey firearms safety rules: 1. Treat every gun as if it were loaded. 2. Always keep the gun pointed in a safe direction. 3. Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire. 4. Be aware of your target’s foreground and background. All contents in RECOIL Magazine are professionally photographed in a closed studio or range. Do not attempt to re-create any photographs depicted in this magazine.
PRODUCT DISCLAIMER Prices and details for items featured in RECOIL are set by the manufacturers and retailers, and are subject to change without notice.
RECOIL (USPS 013-320), September/October 2018; Number 38, is published bimonthly by TEN: Publishing Media, LLC 1212 Avenue of the Americas, 18th Floor, New York, NY 10036. Copyright © 2018 by TEN: Publishing Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Periodicals Postage Paid at New York, NY, and at additional mail offices. Subscriptions U.S. and U.S. Possessions: $49.97 per year (6 issues); Canadian, $55.97, Foreign, $61.97 (including surface mail postage). Payment in advance. U.S. funds only. POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. (See DMM 707.4.12.5): NON-POSTAL AND MILITARY FACILITIES: send address changes to RECOIL, P.O. Box 420235, Palm Coast, FL 32142-0235. Please allow 8-10 weeks for delivery of first issue. No part of this book may be reproduced without written permission. This book is purchased with the understanding that the information presented herein is from many varied sources for which there can be no warranty or responsibility by the publisher as to accuracy or completeness.
Throughout this issue you will see certain images are labeled as being 1:1 Actual Size. This designation is for the print edition of this issue. Because of the various screen sizes on different tablets and computers, we cannot always provide actual life size images in digital versions. We apologize if this causes any confusion and thank you for your understanding.
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ON THE COVER COVER PHOTO BY KENDA LENSEIGNE
1 RIFLE
2 AMMO
3 KNIFE
MAKE:
MAKE:
MAKE:
Jaxx Industries
SIG SAUER
Medford Knives
Lead Faucet Tactical
MODEL:
MODEL:
MODEL:
MODEL:
699 Micro Galil
300BLK, 120gr, Elite Hunting Solid Copper, OTM
China Doll (discontinued)
LFT Sling
MSRP:
$2,950
MSRP:
URL:
$28.50
jaxxindustries.com
URL:
www.sigsauer.com
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1
2
REC O ILW E B .C O M
8
3
4
4 SLING
MAKE:
MSRP:
MSRP:
$190
$53
URL:
URL:
www.medfordknife.com
leadfaucettactical.com
STREAMLIGHT’S TLR WEAPON-MOUNTED LIGHTS CAN FIT EVERYTHING FROM YOUR LONG GUN TO YOUR CONCEALED CARRY. AND THEY’RE BUILT WITH THE SAME COMMITMENT TO DURABILITY AND DEPENDABILITY THAT HAS MADE STREAMLIGHT A TRUSTED MANUFACTURER FOR 45 YEARS.
TLR-1 HL®
TLR-2 HL® G
TLR-6®
TLR-7®
TLR-8®
©2018 STREAMLIGHT, INC. | STREAMLIGHT.COM
KEYPOINTS -This unique optics/ photo/ gear carry-on will fit in all overhead bins while holding the max capacity of stuff in thickly padded 360 protection. And it rolls so you won’t have to bear all the weight. The long handle will reach even tall users and metal loops allow an optional shoulder strap for short runs over rough ground. -The exclusive hard-shell front has 4 locations for our patented HARDPOINTŽ load system so you can attach bungee cord systems, tripods, MOLLE panels, lights etc. using the corners. -Holds the majority of mirrorless & full-frame DSLR camera bodies, lenses, drones (like Mavic Pro), as well as shooting optics. Your sporting scopes, range finders, mini tripods, hand-loads, and other shooting gear will co-exist perfectly with a laptop, papers tools etc. Internal velcro panels for adding pistol, magazine pouches, and similar. -External MOLLE loops for adding small pouches etc. And backside webbing to stack it on top of larger rolling bags like our Air Support luggage.
1. PILLBOX Thermocap Photo-CCW Pack 2. GRILL Photo/CCW Hardshell Molle Pack 3. PLAN-B ‘17 Go-Bag Thermo-Cap Sling 4. Patented Roto-Lock Buckle 5. FREELANCE Medium Photo/Drone-Sling 6. M.P.C. Multi-Pistol Padded Carrier 7. HEAVY WATER DIVER® Titanium/Tritium Watch 8. PONCHO VILLA Technical Soft-Shell Poncho 9. FRONTLINE ASSAULT Rifle Loadout Chest-Rig 10. SIDEWINDER Laptop Sling-Pack 11. AIRSTRIKE Rolling Photo/Laptop Carry-on HARDPOINT Patented Load System
MOST BAGS ARE CCW COMPATIBLE USING OUR UNIVERSAL STICK-UP™ HOLSTER SYSTEM
Ah, the AK. A testament to the ability of a totalitarian
would still be in production, proving that yes, it’s possible
military industrial complex to create the most prolific rifle
to make a mediocre design worse, so long as you assign
design in history through sheer bureaucratic inertia. Despite
enough government employees to the task.
the protestations of its most ardent western admirers, Kalashnikov’s baby is adequate at best. Its dire ergonomics,
a 70-year-old rifle, no matter how widely issued it might be.
coupled with a short sight radius and indifferent rear sight,
Instead, this issue focuses on some modernized, refined AK
result in the user being handicapped when compared to other
variants; we examine the issues involved with suppressing
small arms on the world market. Additionally, its cartridge is
a platform that doesn’t lend itself to silencer use, and take
ballistically inefficient, with a light-for-caliber projectile that
trips to both the streets of Kabul and mother Russia to
quickly runs out of gas, compounding aiming errors due to a
see the AK in its natural environment. Look for more AK-
rainbow trajectory.
centric content on RECOILtv later this summer, as we have
Despite its drawbacks, the Soviets learned early on that
producers in existence, located in a war-torn Soviet satellite
they had following the destruction wrought during the
state. Stay tuned ...
and settled upon as the service rifle for what was then the biggest standing army in the world. From that point on, the industrial might of a command economy was thrown behind it. Were it not for the collapse of the Evil Empire in 1991,
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it’s likely that abominations such as the Hungarian AMD-65
REC O ILW E B .C O M
an exclusive invitation to visit one of the most respected
quantity has a quality of its own. Making the best of what Second World War, the AK was conceived, designed, trialed,
12
There’s only so much you can do to rehash the subject of
You’ve put your heart and soul into the perfect rifle build. Shoulder it with pride. This is three generations of superior innovation. This is a lifetime of performance.
This is McMillan.
McMillan A-5 Tactical Stock on custom McMillan .338 Lapua Mag. rifle
McMillan Game Scout Stock on Browning .300 WSM rifle
Xit Stock on a Kelbly’s Stolle Panda in .308 with a Krieger Barrel and Nightforce® 15-55x52 Scope
WWW.SAFARI LAN D.CO M
M O D E L
L I V E YO U R L E G A CY.
7 T S
7 3 5 4 - S P 1 0 7 T S™ A L S¨ SINGLE
STRAP
S E R I E S
TACTICAL
HOLSTER
H O L S T E R
Our Safariland 7TS™ Holster Series has set new standards in ruggedness and durability with extremely high tolerances to heat and cold making it impervious to the weather. The proprietary DuPont blend, SafariSeven™ finish is non-abrasive to the weapon and the holster’s unique interior design reduces dirt and moisture contact with gun. Check it out at www.safariland.com/7TS.
A U T O M A T I C
L O C K I N G
S Y S T E M
C O L O R S AV A I L A B L E
©2018 SAFARILAND, LLC.
Editorial. Editor/ Iain Harrison Executive Editor/ Rob Curtis Senior Editor/ Tom Marshall Managing Editor/ Laura Peltakian Contributing Editor/ Steven Kuo Editor // Social Media/ Dave Merrill Editor // Online/ Candice Horner Director, Video Production/ Trent Stockton Photography Studio Manager/ Jorge Nuñez Contributors/ Ryne Gioviano, Kenda Lenseigne, Liz Leggett Photography, Ian McCollum, Valery Moroz, Frank Plumb, James Rupley, Straight 8, Peter Suciu, Larry Vickers, Miles Vining, Patrick Vuong Special Thanks/ Blacklist Ind, The Bullet Ranch, We Plead the Second
Art Direction & Design. Senior Art Director/ Gene Coo Art Director/ Sarah Lampert
Submissions. recoil@enthusiastnetwork.com
Subscriber Customer Services. Domestic/Canadian: 888.681.7064 Foreign: 386.246.0439 recoil@emailcustomerservice.com
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This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that the information presented is from various sources from which there can be no warranty or responsibility by TEN: Publishing Media, LLC., or the publisher as to legality, completeness and accuracy. Any submissions or contributions from readers shall be subject to and governed by TEN: Publishing Media’s User Content Submission Terms and Conditions, which are posted at http://www. enthusiastnetwork.com/submissions/ BACK ISSUES To order back issues, visit TENbackissues.com. REPRINTS For high-quality custom reprints and eprints, please contact The YGS Group at 800-290-5460 or TENreprints@theygsgroup.com EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS Editorial contributions are welcomed, but editors recommend that contributors query first. Contribution must be accompanied by return postage and we assume no responsibility for loss or damage thereto. Manuscripts must be typewritten on white paper, and all photographs must be accompanied by captions. Photo model releases required on all persons in photos. Recoil reserves the right to use material at its discretion, and we reserve the right to edit material to meet our requirements. Upon publication, payment will be made at our current rate, and that said payment will cover author’s and contributor’s rights of the contribution. Contributor’s act of mailing contribution shall constitute an express warranty that the material is original and no infringement on the rights of others. Mail contributions to: Recoil Magazine, 1821 E. Dyer Rd., Suite #150, Santa Ana, CA 92705. ADVERTISING INFORMATION Please call Recoil Advertising Department, (949) 705-3100. Printed in the USA Copyright © 2018 by TEN: Publishing Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
0.5mm
NEW LEVEL OF CONTROL Low-profile Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR) closure provides a secure fit to your wrist.
MSD-55 COVERT
ERGONOMIC DESIGN Anatomically placed stitch darts conform to the natural curvature of your hand to provide a precision fit.
Lightweight TrekDry ® conforms to the back of your hand to reduce heat build-up and perspiration.
MSD-72 COYOTE
HIGH DEXTERITY 0.5mm AX-Suede™ delivers precision feel and abrasion resistance.
High-dexterity 0.5mm AX-Suede™ provides precision feel and high dexterity.
Expandable flex joints improve trigger finger mobility.
VENT
COOL UNDER PRESSURE Low-profile Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR) closure provides a secure fit to your wrist.
MSV-55 COVERT
EVAPORATIVE COOLING Breathable mesh allows cool air to circulate throughout the glove. Lightweight mesh allows cool air to circulate throughout the glove.
MSV-72 COYOTE
PALM VENTILATION Ventilated 0.6mm palm material provides evaporative cooling.
Touchscreen capable palm and fingers keep you connected in the field.
Expandable flex joints improve overall finger mobility.
TACTICAL HAND PROTECTION US: 800.222.4296 | WWW.MECHANIX.COM J OIN U S ! m e c h a n i x _ ta c ti c a l
1
2
If we’re spending all day at the range under the sun, we’re going to need a water bottle that doesn’t let our cold water turn lukewarm. Fortunately, GSI Outdoors released its MicroLite lineup. These 18/8 stainless steel bottles are vacuum insulated, with a space almost devoid of air in between two layers of steel. That vacuum prevents outside conditions from affecting the bottle’s contents. Featuring a screw-top lid, the MicroLite 720 Twist holds 24 fluid ounces — GSI claims it can keep your coffee hot for 12 hours or your iced water cold for 24 hours. It’s also a third lighter than traditional double-walled bottles thanks to 2mm-thin steel. Its baby brother, the MicroLite 500 Twist, is said to keep 16.9 fluid ounces hot for 10 hours and cold for 20 hours.
Usually gun folks are knife folks. Here’s a shirt that celebrates both … sorta. The Have a Knife Day Shirt is a button-up short sleeve that features a pattern of tiny Swiss Army Knife-like multitools. It features 5.11’s trademarked RAPIDraw placket, allowing you to quickly access a concealed carry handgun. The branded metal case buttons and snaps will hold up to repeated use and — let’s face it — are much faster to do and undo than traditional buttons. Offered in regular fit, the shirt is made of a lightweight cotton-polyester blend that’s comfortable and airy for a summer’s day.
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MAKE:
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At first glance, the Combat Applications Belt from GPM Kit looks like typical webbing with a hook-and-loop closure. But after testing it out, we’re sold on this minimalist style of belt, which GPM Kit says is the first patented buckle-free tactical belt. It’s way lighter than a rigger’s belt and, while the method of donning it for the first time seems unusual, is easy to use once you’ve read the simple instructions. This belt is flexible enough to conform to your curves, but stiff enough to hold a holster and mag pouches. Plus, if you’re shooting prone, there’s no buckle to jam into your gut.
MAKE:
MAKE:
5.11 Tactical
GPM Kit
MODEL:
MODEL:
Have a Knife Day Shirt
Combat Applications Belt
COLORS:
COLORSV:
Breeze, Pebble, and White
ATACS, Black, Coyote, and Green
GSI Outdoors
MSRP:
MSRP:
MODEL:
$50
$49
MicroLite 720, MicroLite 500 Twist
URL:
URL:
COLORS:
www.511tactical.com
www.gpmkit.com
4
Benchmade’s SOCP daggers are popular because they’re not only light and deadly, but they also have a large ring at the butt end for retention and quick deployment. Now the company is releasing the 390 SOCP 4.5, the first ever SOCP folding knife — and RECOIL has the honor of premiering it in print here. To transform the dagger into folder form, designer Greg Thompson kept it long and slim but morphed the retention ring into a pocket clip with a large hole, so you can stick the pad of your index finger into it to aid in a rapid draw. Ambidextrous thumb discs let you quickly open the spear-point blade, made of D2 tool steel with a black Cerakote finish. The handle has textured G10 scales and a glass-breaker on the end. Because of its unique design, Benchmade also offers a replica training blade for $160. Made in the USA, both the trainer and live blade should be on sale by the time you read this. MAKE:
Benchmade Knife Co.
Apple Green, Black, and Blue
MODEL:
MSRP:
390 SOCP 4.5
$29, $25
MSRP:
1
URL:
$205 URL:
www.gsioutdoors.com
www.benchmade.com
2
3
4
The comfort of your favorite pant with a tactical edge. The Defender-Flex pants are a favorite on the range as well as everywhere else and the back mag pockets mean you’ll Always Be ReadyŽ.
5
It’s widely known that certain RECOIL staff members have attended 12-step programs for their addiction to hot, caffeinated beverages. Be that as it may, we welcome relapses with open arms and an empty mug. The latest came in the form of two offerings from Salvations Coffee Co. The veteran-owned company sent us 10-ounce bags of their Speed Freak Light Roast and Wild Roast coffee. We rate coffee on two scales: how good it tastes and how much we feel it. It passed both tests admirably. The Columbian single-origin Wild Roast has a smooth, bold taste, surprising us with some sweet, candy-like fragrant notes. Although its name might make you think you’ll be buying more Sudafed at 3 a.m., the Speed Freak is a lightly roasted Ethiopian that’s also flavorful and rich.
6
The MeoMag 3x magnifier from Meopta has a dual purpose. First, it’s designed to pair up with almost any reddot sight available today, allowing greater precision at longer distances. Second, it’s sized to fit into your palm as a monocular. Thanks to a quick-release mount, you can cycle through its two uses in seconds. A hinge mount is also available if you prefer to keep the magnifier on your firearm. It features Meopta’s trademarked MeoBright lens coatings (eliminating glare and reflections) and MeoDrop lens coatings (repelling not only rain and snow but also dirt and skin oils).
7
With its angular lines and bright red color, the RA-535 Advanced Performance Trigger looks just as good as it performs. With a 3.5-pound pull weight and a short reset, the single-stage trigger improves your accuracy and split times. It weighs 2.3 ounces, fits most .308 and .223 ARs, can be installed quickly without any minute adjustments, and is made from CNC-machined tool steel and aluminum. The APT’s unique-looking blade combines the leverage of a straight trigger with the consistent placement of a curved bow. Who said all triggers had to look the same?
MAKE:
MAKE:
Meopta
Rise Armament
MODEL:
MODEL:
MeoMag 3x
RA-535 Advanced Performance Trigger
WEIGHT:
MSRP:
7.48 ounces
$259
Salvation Coffee Co.
MSRP:
URL:
MODEL:
$1,000
www.risearmament.com
MAKE:
Speed Freak Light Roast, Wild Roast
URL:
OPTIONS:
www.meoptausa.com
8
The original cotton flyer’s kit bag stands the test of time with its simple, durable, and space-saving nature. When you’ve got a bunch of them to pack, the square shape means they stack and nest, maximizing storage space in aircrew shuttles, on pallets, and in aircraft cargo holds. They carry as much as an average suitcase, which is to say a lot, while scrunching down to the size of a football when not in use. T3’s version retains all this goodness and adds self-storing backpack straps for hands-free transfers, an easy-access perimeter zipper in addition to the standard centerline zipper, hardwearing, 500-denier Cordura nylon fabric instead of the original heavyweight cotton, and heavy-duty stitching and water-resistant zippers. It’s also made in the U.S. and comes with a lifetime warranty. MAKE:
T3 MODEL:
Kit Bag, Gen 2
3 8 IS SUE
DIMENSIONS:
Available ground or whole bean MSRP:
COLORS:
$18 each
Black, Coyote Tan, Desert Digital, MultiCam, OD Green
REC O ILW E B .C O M
22
URL:
www.salvationcoffeecompany.com
19 by 22 by 12 inches
8
MSRP:
$153 URL:
www.t3gear.com
5
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CONNECT THE DOT ™ SIG SAUER Electro-Optics transforms hunting with the unprecedented simplicity and accuracy of BDX. KILO BDX rangefinders use your ballistics and Bluetooth® to illuminate the exact holdover dot in SIERRA3BDX riflescopes. For the most accurate and ethical shot, just connect the dot. Rangefinder:
Riflescope:
KILO2400BDX
SIERRA3BDX 6.5-20X52mm
Download the SIG BDX app from Google Play or the iTunes Store. Learn more at sigsauer.com.
Powered by:
9
ESD’s sling is an exquisitely efficient take on the adjustable rifle sling. The inch-wide nylon webbing has two sections — the quick-adjust lead and the set-and-forget rear section that attaches to the rifle butt. What makes the ESD a little different than its competitors is its effortless operation and its bevy of factory rifle connection options. The slider is intuitive and effortless to operate in both directions. And there five options for rifle connections, plus an optional mid-sling quick disconnect for guys who forgo QD ends, but still want a quick way out of the sling. MAKE:
Edgar Sherman Design MODEL:
ESD Sling
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END OPTIONS:
MAKE:
11
When it comes to accuracy, that most excellent union of bullet, powder, and primer depends on the case’s ability to keep those components in contact with precision measured in thousandths of an inch. That’s why we’re excited to hear Gunwerks, a company already known for precision in the rifle arena, is putting its name on its own line of brass. The premium brass features tight tolerances, uniform primer pockets, precision drilled flash holes, optimized case walls, and lot-to-lot weight and volume consistency … all that adds to more accuracy and longer case life. Gunwerks even thought to minimize its headstamp so handloaders can see the first hint of pressure signs. Each load of brass comes in a heavy-duty carry pouch that makes it easy to segregate the good stuff from the range pickups when heading home for the day.
12
Even with a sling, a protein shake, and a good night’s rest, holding a rifle at relaxed low ready for hours sucks. The JX Rifle Holster takes the load off — or rather, it shifts the load to your shoulders, holding an AR by the magwell. It holds the rifle by straddling the mag, bottoming out on the magwell, and latching to the trigger guard, covered by a plastic shield for safety. The holster slips into the PALS field of your tactical vest and rotates up and down, allowing the rifle to ride in muzzle up or down positions. To release the rifle, push the big button and lift. This might not be the best use of valuable chest rig real estate for HSLDers running nav boards or maxxing out on reloads. But for guys manning static positions, this thing will return the feeling back in your arms and let you go hands free while performing admin tasks with your primary at the ready.
Paracord connection, QD sling swivel, ITW HK clash hooks, or loose ends
Lehigh Defense
MSRP:
MODEL:
MAKE:
Flash Tip Projectiles
$40 to $75
Gunwerks
AVAILABLE SIZES:
MAKE:
MODEL:
JX Tactical
.264 105gr & 119gr .308 111gr & 144gr .338 240gr .375 338gr
Premium Rifle Brass
MODEL:
CALIBERS:
AR/M4 Rifle Holster
6CM, 6.5CM, 300WM, 300RUM, 338RUM, 338 Lapua Magnum
Black, Flat Dark Earth
URL:
www.edgarshermandesign.com
11
REC O ILW E B .C O M
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Boutique bulleteer Lehigh Defense says it came up with the design of its new titanium-laden Flash Tip projectile at the request of the U.S. military. The war department guys asked for a round that would deliver the same point of impact reference as a tracer but wouldn’t lead right back to the round’s point of origin. When this bullet’s titanium tip hits a target, it produces a flash visible to the naked eye up to a mile away in daylight, says Lehigh. The flash tip gives long-range target shooters and match ROs a visual indicator of impacts. Lehigh says the rounds spark up on contact with steel as well as mud walls, stone, and more. And don’t sweat target damage; the tip uses low-tensile titanium that won’t damage AR400 and higher-grade steel plates.
COLORS:
MSRP:
PRIMER POCKET:
MSRP:
Starting at $29
Large on all brass sizes
$99
URL:
MSRP:
URL:
www.lehighdefense.com
$71 to $214 per 100 pieces
www.jxtactical.com
URL:
www.gunwerks.com
12
10
9
THE ANATOMY OF
PRECISION & PERFORMANCE
RIPPER UPPER & LOWER Durable and precise, machined from premium 7075-T6 billet.
RA-902 HANDGUARD Maximizes functionality and comfort. MLOK compatible.
CB-160 STAINLESS STEEL BARREL Superior accuracy with proprietary weight reduction. Guaranteed sub MOA. RA-701 COMPENSATOR Holds it steady and on target. Reduces recoil by 67%.
RA-535 ADVANCED PERFORMANCE TRIGGER Fire faster and more accurately. Combines zero creep with a rapid reset, minimal overtravel, and a crisp break. Precision manufactured to aerospace standards.
OUR SUPERIOR COMPONENTS COMBINE TO CREATE UNRIVALED RIFLES. RISEARMAMENT.COM
E X P E R I E N C E
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AEGIS ELITE CUSTOM (OI) & AEGIS ELITE PRO (OI) AVA I L A B L E I N 9 M M A N D . 4 5 A C P L E A R N M O R E AT K I M B E R A M E R I C A . C O M
MADE IN AMERICA
WHAT ALL GUNS SHOULD BE
TM
©2018, Kimber Mfg., Inc. All rights reserved. Information and specifications are for reference only and subject to change without notice.
(888) 243-4522 KIMBERAMERICA.COM
interesting to note is that the plans of the building included a room designated as a museum.” Today, the museum covers the history of the Regiment’s military heritage, including the history of the The London and Oxford Fusiliers (The Canadian Fusiliers — City of London Regiment, and The Oxford Rifles of Woodstock, Ontario).
TOURING THE GALLERIES It’s hard not to feel the history as soon as you enter the main entryway, where a wooden cross from Flanders Field from WWI is presented. From here, visitors enter the museum via the Colonel Tom and Miggsie Lawson Foyer, which features gold bricks that adorn the walls, each meant to serve
MUSEUM OF CANADA’S OLDEST REGIMENT 3 8
BY PETER SUCIU
momentous event. The Foyer features a pair of stained glass windows on either side. These were created
IS SUE REC O ILW E B .C O M
28
as a memorial of a loved one or mark a
by Canadian artist Christopher Wallis of Grand Bend, Ontario, each a memorial to a past “Royal Canadian,” both of whom gave much of themselves for their country.
London, Ontario, named of course for the
it was established in 1888, the 150-year-
British capital city, is home to the Royal
old barracks are the oldest building in
Canadian Regiment Museum. Housed in
the Canadian Forces Base (CFB) London.
“Stained glass window in memory of Colonel
the west wing of the historic Wolseley Hall,
It has been continuously occupied by
Tom F.G. Lawson, Colonel of the Regiment
the first building to be built by the Canadian
some element of the regiment since the
1981-’85. ‘A Tribute to his Regimental
government especially for its new standing
completion of construction.
Family’ from his wife and children,” and
army in 1886, this museum chronicles
At various times, the Wolseley Barracks
The inscriptions on the windows read:
“Stained glass window in memory of
the history of one of Canada’s oldest
have been the home of the Regimental HQ
Brigadier T.E.D’O. Snow, Commanding
military units.
for the 1st and 2nd Battalions, and today it
Officer of The RCR 1941-’43 and Colonel
remains the home of the 4th Battalion.
of the Regiment 1978-’81. On it are the
First settled by Europeans between 1801
The original architectural drawings for
words that best denote this much beloved
the Quebec City-Windsor Corridor, the most
Wolseley Hall from 1886 actually allocated
Brigadier, ‘Gallant Soldier, Modest Gentle
densely populated and heavily industrialized
space for a museum, but in the past five
Man, Trusted Friend.’”
region of Canada. Approximately halfway
years the museum completed an expansion.
between Toronto and Detroit, it’s also home
As a result, it now includes two floors with
designed and installed in 1991, while
to the former Canadian Forces Base London,
galleries that chronicle the regiment’s
Brigadier Snow’s was completed in 1997.
which was the first purpose-built infantry
exploits throughout its history.
and 1804, London, Ontario, is situated along
training school erected by the Canadian
Within the building are many artifacts, but
The window for Colonel Lawson was
The Colonel D.B. Weldon Library and Museum Quiet Room (Chapel) offers historical
federal government. It served as an early
the building itself is also ripe and rich with
references collected by the RCR Museum,
symbol of the establishment of a permanent
its own history. “The U-shaped barracks
available to onsite researchers with permission
military force in Canada, and part of the
were designed by architect Henry James,
from the curator. This part of the museum
base was designated a National Historic Site
who eventually became the official designer
is named in honor of Colonel Douglas
of Canada in 1963.
for many other barracks and armories
Black Weldon, who served with the 47th
throughout Southwestern Ontario,” says
(Western Ontario) Battalion of the Canadian
Wolseley and used for training regular and
Georgiana Stanciu, Ph.D, director of the
Expeditionary Force during World War I, and
reserve units of the Canadian Army since
Royal Canadian Regiment Museum. “What is
later was appointed Second-in-Command
Named for British Field Marshal Viscount
THE ROYAL CANADIAN REGIMENT MUSEUM There are specific and specialized galleries for the Northwest Rebellion, the Yukon Field Force, the South African (Boer) War, WWI, the Interwar Years, WWII, the Korean War, the Cold War, UN and NATO operations, plus galleries devoted to the Infantry and even the regimental band. Key pieces in the collection include the WWII-era uniform of Brigadier Milton F. Gregg, awarded the Victoria Cross for his service during the Battle of Canal du Nord in France in 1918. Unfortunately, Gregg’s Victoria Cross, which had been donated to the museum in the late 1970s, was stolen and never recovered. Within the museum’s displays are several dioramas showcasing the RCR on various campaigns. The model of 3 8
the Battle of Paardeberg depicts the IS SUE
monumental battle, remembered every February to this day. Also exhibited is a replica of “Private Thompson’s scarf of honour.” The scarf, crocheted by
REC O ILW E B .C O M
30
Queen Victoria, is one of the rarest
Top left: One of the stained glass windows in the museum’s Regimental Chapel. It honors the soldiers who fought on the Western Front during WWI.
Top right: This display depicts a soldier of the Royal Canadian Regiment in the Italy Campaign in WWII and includes a Bren MkI light machinegun.
and then Commanding Officer of
succeeding sovereign, this is not the
honors bestowed on a soldier of the
the Canadian Fusiliers (MG) (City of
case with the badge for the RCR.
Empire. Awarded to Private Thompson,
While from 1901 to 1919, which
it represents a unique distinction for a
London Regiment) during WWII. The chapel now houses many past
Canadian soldier. The Gallery to WWI includes a Vimy
Regimental Colours, with the oldest
later King George V, the regiment’s cap
dating back to WWI. “We preserve
badge featured the latter cipher, but the
Ridge diorama showing the progress
the history of the regimental colours,”
regiment continued to use the earlier
of the unit, while a full-size replica
Stanciu noted. “These colours are laid
“VRI” badges throughout this period
trench allows visitors to get a feeling
out in perpetuity in a church or chapel
as well, and there was even a formal
for what it must’ve been like for the
for the regiment.”
petition to return to the previous cipher.
young men who traveled so far from
The Centennial Gallery includes
“In 1919, the King (George V)
home. This battle has been remarked
various helmet and cap badges from
granted The Royal Canadian Regiment
upon as the event that bought Canada
Canadian Military Forces from the
permission to wear ‘VRI’ in perpetuity,”
her independence. It was the first
19th century to the modern day. This
explained Stanciu. “This is a very
large-scale operation carried out
includes history on the Regiment
unique privilege for the regiment.”
completely by the Canadian Corps of
Cap Badge, consisting of an eight-
Bottom right: A Korean War-era Sherman M4A2E8 (76 mm) HVSS tank stands guard outside the museum. It carries the markings of the 6th Armoured Regiment (1st Hussars).
saw the reign of King Edward VII and
The RCR Museum features several
four divisions, and the first offensive
pointed diamond cut star — upon the
memorials to those who gave their
carried out by the Allies during the war
star a raised circle surmounted by
lives in service of their country,
that was truly a success.
the crown; within the raised circle,
beginning with memorials for the
the block letters “VRI,” the Imperial
North West Rebellion and continuing
in dress and service uniforms
Cypher of Queen Victoria.
to those who sadly died in so-called
that soldiers serving in the RCR
Visitors can see the evolution
peace keeping duties. The museum
experienced, including helmets,
when a Royal or Imperial Cypher
further chronicles the sacrifices made,
tunics, and boots soldiers may have
forms part of the badge of a regiment
beginning with a gallery devoted to its
worn throughout the past century
it’s normal for it to change with each
early years (1883-’85).
or more.
While it’s typically common that
THE ROYAL CANADIAN REGIMENT MUSEUM Various items captured from “The
“Commando Post” used by the 1st
Hun” on the Western Front during the
Battalion of the RCR during the
Type 41 75mm Mountain Gun that was
Great War, as well as British and Com-
Korean War, as well as uniforms,
presented to the museum, despite the
monwealth small arms, make up the cur-
small arms, and other items from
fact that the regiment saw action in
rent collection on display. These include a
not only the Regiment but also from
Europe not the Pacific area of operations
rare Ross rifle, a straight-pull bolt-action
around the world.
in WWII.
.303-caliber rifle that was produced in
A display dedicated to Afghanistan
Outside the museum is also the
Canada from 1903 to 1918, and original
allows visitors to enter a sentry post,
Regimental Memorial of The Royal
period recruiting posters.
while a near life-size mural depicts
Canadian Regiment.
WWII items include Enfield rifles
a RCR team in Afghanistan. “The
and a British-made PIAT (Projector,
artist wanted this to look as lifelike as
Infantry, Anti Tank) gun, as well as
possible,” explained Stanciu. “This
numerous captured items, such as
isn’t based on any particular incident
thanks to the efforts of the regiment’s
the faces are very much meant to be
“Association of Old Comrades,” formed
who accepted the German surrender
a close approximation of soldiers who
following WWI. “This was created
on May 6, 1945 from German General
may have served in Afghanistan.”
to take care of the traditions of the
“The Luger pistol that we have is 3 8
collection have been preserved
and it isn’t taken from a photo, but
This effectively ended WWWII.
IS SUE
Many of the artifacts in the
commander of the Canadian forces,
Wereld in Wageningen, Netherlands.
REC O ILW E B .C O M
PRESERVING THE HISTORY
items from General Charles Foulkes,
Johannes Blaskowitz at the Hotel de
32
There’s also a captured Japanese
regiment,” said Stanciu.
BEYOND THE WALLS While far too small a building to
HOURS
Tue, Wed & Fri: 10 to 4 Thu: 10 to 8 Sat & Sun: 12 to 4 Closed on Mondays and on statutory holidays except for Remembrance Day ADMISSION
Free PHONE
(519) 660-5275 ext. 5102 URL
www.thercrmuseum.ca
Following WWII, the museum was
house large pieces of artillery or
began to take shape in the 1950s and
armored vehicles, several notable ex-
early 1960s. It was officially designated
General Blaskowitz,” said Stanciu. “How-
amples are on the grounds outside Wol-
a Canadian Forces Museum in 1973.
ever, we have no proof so it may just be
seley Barracks. These include a Sher-
a story, but it was given to the museum
man M4A2E8, which saw service in the
cause this is when the Canadian Mili-
directly by General Foulkes, so there is
Korean War; a Bren Gun or Universal
tary Forces also established a military
really no reason to question it.” Upon his
Carrier from the Italian campaign; a
museum network,” added Stanciu.
return to Canada, General Foulkes was
25 pounder (Ordnance QF 25-pounder
appointed Chief of the General Staff.
cannon), the main British field gun
in this network, it does offer a fine
from WWII; and a more modern Lynx
collection that preserves the artifacts
galleries have been recently updated
reconnaissance vehicle of the type used
that tell the story of the regiment and
and here visitors can find interesting
during peace-keeping operations in the
remind visitors of the sacrifices it has
artifacts, including the original
Cold War era.
paid over the past 150 years.
It isn’t just the British Army that dons “red coats.” This is a full dress uniform of the Royal Canadian Regiment as it looks today.
ADDRESS
701 Oxford St. E London, ON N5Y 4T7
still open just through private tours, but
reportedly the sidearm that belonged to
The Cold War and peacekeeping
THE ROYAL CANADIAN REGIMENT MUSEUM
“This is very important to note, be-
While not the largest museum
Below: The Royal Canadian Museum’s gallery of small arms that were carried by its soldiers from the late 19th century to the late 20th century. These include singleshot rifles, such as the British-made Martini Henry, the Lee Enfield, Bren Gun, Thompson submachine gun, and M-16, as well as .30 and .50 machineguns.
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36
SUPPLY DEMAND AND
WHEN MAJOR AUTOMAKERS DON’T FULFILL THE NEEDS OF THE CUSTOMER, COMPANIES LIKE BOLLINGER MOTORS RISE TO THE OCCASION BY JOHN SCHWARTZE PHOTOS BY LIZ LEGGETT PHOTOGRAPHY
When it comes to automotive niches that
aren’t major automakers cranking out
and smaller battery packs. All that’s great
are still essentially virgin territory, did you
full-size, completely electric, honest-to-
because it moves toward electric, but
ever notice that your favorite 4x4s still
goodness trucks?
with full-on electric I think they’re wor-
aren’t being offered as electric vehicles?
Robert Bollinger wondered the same
ried about the money involved and range
With the Chevy ZH2 we showed you in Is-
thing. “I think they’re afraid it won’t
anxiety. They have billions of dollars from
sue 32, the reason certainly isn’t because
make them money,” Bollinger says. “It’s
their other sales, and they’re still reluctant
existing technology can’t support a truck’s
so expensive to make electric, and major
to make an all-electric vehicle as much as
power requirements. So what gives? Why
automakers are still playing with hybrids
they should I think.”
What happened next really speaks to that
the debut of the B1. It’s truly in a class
old saying about the mother of invention.
all its own — when asked to categorize it,
“There were no electric vehicles on the
Robert calls it “the world’s first all-electric
market that I wanted,” Bollinger says. “So
SUT,” or sport utility truck.
I dreamed up the exact vehicle I’d want
Some of you may be thinking that Tesla
that could handle all the jobs I wanted to
already beat them to the punch with the
do on my farm: hold long lumber, have
Model X, but let’s face it — the Model X
high ground clearance, instant torque, four-wheel drive, short wheelbase, be its own power source for tools, and carry lots of dogs,” he says. The
is more of a minivan; many of us want a serious 4x4 rather than something that looks like it was built for hipsters worried about spilling their macchiato while driving
result was the
to their next protest. Starting with a clean
formation
slate allowed a very practical approach to
of Bollinger
determining the best way to engineer every
Motors and
component, rather than trying to adapt new
SUPPLY AND DEMAND technology to an existing platform —
hands on; it’ll never be autonomous,
something most major automakers
it won’t connect to your iPhone, and
always try first to save a few bucks.
there’s no computer screen. It’s all
The design and overarching theme
IS SUE
3 8
is simplicity. Aesthetics are remi-
REC O ILW E B .C O M
38
about being tough and utilitarian.” When it came to possibly becoming
niscent of a vintage Land Rover or
the next Preston Tucker and compet-
International Scout; and that was
ing with those billion-dollar enterpris-
meant to complement the vehicle’s
es, Robert got into this venture some-
pragmatic intentions. “Most electric
what serendipitously. “I didn’t think
vehicles nowadays are luxury and
I could compete. I think ignorance is
involve big interactive displays, they
bliss, and when I said, ‘Hey, let’s do
hook up to your smartphone and are
this,’ it was more of a gut feeling and
heavily moving toward autonomous
a childhood dream. I’m glad I had
driving,” Bollinger says. “Our truck is
that because it got us started. The big
thing is that what we’re doing won’t compete with the big guys because we created our own DNA,” he says. However, an absence of competition doesn’t come without its caveats. The low volume not only means low competition, but because this niche remains largely unfilled and consumer interest has yet to overtake internal combustion technology, it also means there’s not much in the way of vendors and aftermarket support. Bollinger had to find ways to combine what’s out there, have components designed to his specifications, and engineer other items internally. The architecture of the B1 and most of the components within are essentially proprietary. “We designed our own gearboxes, body, chassis, and suspension to handle our weight class rating of 10,001 pounds,” Bollinger says. To give you an idea of how that compares to what’s on the market now, it’s basically strong enough to be in the same class as an F-350 or Chevy 3500. The final truck itself will weigh around 5,000 pounds. Batteries, motors, and obvious components like
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©2018 Kel-Tec CNC Industries, Inc
SUPPLY AND DEMAND wheel hubs defer the gears down to the wheels, creating better ground clearance. The wheels have speed sensors that talk to the VCU (vehicle control unit), so the brains of the truck know what’s happening. Even though the two motors operate independently of each other, they interact through software via a virtual differential in the middle, allowing power to be distributed the way you’d expect in a 4WD vehicle. The interior is stripped down and utilitarian. The dashboard can easily be removed so the owner can add extra gauges, switches, or lights if desired.
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3 8
In an effort to offer both left-hand and
REC O ILW E B .C O M
40
headlights, seats, and tires are being
right-hand-drive versions, the cockpit
outsourced for the moment, but this is
is basically a mirror of itself so every-
essentially a ground-up build. It’s full-
thing can easily be moved over when
time all-wheel-drive with a self-leveling
reconfiguring for foreign markets. The
hydropneumatic suspension. A switch
chassis and body are all aluminum,
inside the vehicle can also be used to
with the exception of a steel rollcage.
raise and lower it 5 inches each way,
The pass-through in the middle of the
topping out at a max 20 inches of
vehicle enables you to haul long lum-
ground clearance. The 17-inch wheels
ber or any number of things you might
all feature antilock brakes.
not be able to in a typical truck.
The basic layout of the drive system
The battery pack on the produc-
is roughly a two-part mirror image to
tion models will feature a 120 kWh
avoid having a transaxle going from
setup to help achieve Bollinger’s
one end to the other while having
goal of a minimum 200-mile range.
power coming from two sources. The
In city driving with lots of braking,
front and back each has its own motor
the vehicle’s regenerative capabili-
mated to a two-speed gearbox, which
ties kick in and Bollinger says you’ll
in turn connects to two half shafts that
easily get well over 200 miles on a
go out to portal gear hubs. The in-
single charge in that environment.
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SUPPLY AND DEMAND four-door version in the fourth quarter of 2019, with delivery starting in early 2020. You can reserve one with zero money down and zero obligations, but you better get in line now. Orders at press time were over 16,000 and climb-
3 8
ing. We tried to pin Robert down on what it’ll sticker for,
ties on the battery pack allow it to
but price and warranty formalities are
stay in an optimum temperature
still being worked out.
range to maximize performance and
Maybe the larger automakers will
life span. Power density, price, and
try and play catch-up upon seeing the
reliability were the main focus of the
demand for this, but by then Bollinger
battery package Bollinger ultimately
may have cornered the market. Hard
selected.
to say, but we’re sure it’ll be an inter-
IS SUE
In 2017, the B1 was debuted at
42 REC O ILW E B .C O M
Active heating and cooling capabili-
esting battle of wits and engineering.
the Classic Car Club in Manhattan
With the instant torque, quick zero-
to great fanfare. At the moment, the
to-60s, zero emissions, and quiet
two-door prototype is the only one
performance, you may very well be
in existence and their test bed, but
seeing the birth of a company that’ll
the plan is to begin production with a
be with us for decades.
BOLLINGER B1
DRIVETRAIN:
This rendering shows the four-door version Bollinger intends to start production on in 2019.
120 kWh energy storage 200-mile range DC-charging compatible CCS (combo) charging port Electronic Locking Differentials (front and rear) Dual front/rear, two-speed high/low range gearboxes 4x torque multiplication in low range
TWO-DOOR B1 LENGTH: 150 inches WIDTH: 76.5 inches WHEELBASE: 105 inches WHEEL TRAVEL: 10 inches TORQUE: 442 lb-ft HORSEPOWER: 560 WEIGHT: Approx. 5,000 pounds TIRES: LT285/70/R17 TOWING CAPACITY: 5,000 pounds PAYLOAD CAPACITY: 5,000 pounds RANGE: Approx. 200 miles BASE PRICE: TBD URL: www.bollingermotors.com
UNUSUAL SUSPECTS Last issue we focused on pricey Damascus blades.
MAKE:
1 Browning MODEL:
Like a gold-digger,
Wihongi Signature Hemp - Small
they’re strong, sexy, and
6.75 inches
wallet-busters. So, in this edition of Unusual
OAL:
BLADE LENGTH:
2.75 inches
BLADE MATERIAL:
Suspects we’re swinging
7Cr17MoV
to the other extreme:
2.4 ounces
budget blades. Owning an inexpensive folding knife is just
WEIGHT: MSRP:
$20
URL:
www.browning.com
prudent. After all, it’s painful to have a $300 model damaged, lost,
IS SUE
3 8
or stolen. And thanks to
REC O ILW E B .C O M
46
MAKE:
2 Bear & Son Cutlery MODEL:
61105 OAL:
advancing technology
7.375 inches
and great designs, some
3.25 inches
economical knives don’t trail too far behind the premium knives. What qualifies as a “budget blade?” Everyone’s definition is gonna be different, but
BLADE LENGTH: BLADE MATERIAL:
440 stainless steel WEIGHT:
3.7 ounces MSRP:
$50
URL:
www.bearandsoncutlery.com MAKE:
most can agree that
3 Tangram Series
50 bucks for a knife is
Orion
doable; that’s equivalent to a dinner for two
MODEL: OAL:
7.375 inches BLADE LENGTH:
at a good restaurant.
3.31 inches
We chose this price
Acuto 440 stainless steel
maximum because it’s the intersection where
BLADE MATERIAL: WEIGHT:
3.6 ounces MSRP:
functional design,
$35
solid materials, decent
www.amazon.com
URL:
construction, and affordability all meet. The drawback is that they’re almost always made in China … which isn’t necessarily a bad
MAKE:
4 Coast Products MODEL:
FDX302 OAL:
7.5 inches BLADE LENGTH:
thing if the quality
3 inches
control is there. Don’t
7Cr17 stainless steel
believe us? Read on to see if there’s a budget
BLADE MATERIAL: WEIGHT:
4 ounces MSRP:
blade that makes the cut
$23
for you.
www.coastportland.com
URL:
MAKE:
5 Kershaw Knives MODEL:
AM-4 OAL:
7.75 inches BLADE LENGTH:
3.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL:
8Cr13MoV stainless steel WEIGHT:
2.8 ounces MSRP:
$50
URL:
kershawknives.com MAKE:
6 Gerber Gear MODEL:
Haul
OAL:
7.9 inches BLADE LENGTH:
3.1 inches
BLADE MATERIAL:
5Cr15MoV stainless steel WEIGHT:
4.9 ounces MSRP:
$41
URL:
www.gerbergear.com MAKE:
7 Outdoor Edge MODEL:
3.5” Divide OAL:
8.25 inches BLADE LENGTH:
3.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL:
8Cr13MoV stainless steel WEIGHT:
4.2 ounces MSRP:
$50
URL:
www.outdooredge.com
BUDGET BLADES BY PATRICK VUONG
FLIP THE PAGE FOR MORE DETAILS ON EACH KNIFE.
BROWNING
INTERROGATING THE UNUSUAL SUSPECTS
IS SUE
3 8
WIHONGI SIGNATURE HEMP - SMALL
REC O ILW E B .C O M
48
BEAR & SON
61105
TANGRAM
ORION
COAST
FDX302
KERSHAW
AM-4
GERBER
HAUL
OUTDOOR EDGE
DIVIDE
411: The most striking feature of this folding knife is the Polynesian etching on the blade. The Maori warrior motif is a nod to the knife’s codesigner, Jared Wihongi (a Utahbased SWAT officer and Kali master of Maori descent). The hemp Micarta handle recalls a time when hemp was used to make strong rope for heavy-duty tasks. Combining the two aesthetics produces unique symbolism that matches its sturdiness. Made in China.
411: Bear & Son is known for its butterfly knives and traditional-style pocketknives. Bear Edge is the company’s tactical lineup, of which the 61105 belongs. This folder looks like other costlier folders in the industry, but keeps the price tag down by pairing a 440 stainless steel blade with a beadfinish aluminum handle instead of, say, 154CM steel and titanium scales. Like all of Bear & Son knives, the 61105 is made in the USA.
411: Tangram Series is an entry-level roster from Kizer Cutlery, one of the first China-based companies to make high-end production knives out of premium materials. For the Orion, Kizer teamed up with U.S. knife-maker Dirk Pinkerton to create a tactical one-hander for EDC. The result is kickass. The modified Wharncliffe blade is ideal for self-defense, the handle is stylish and grippy, and the pocket clip can be worn left or right and tip up or down.
411: The FDX302 has the second-lowest MSRP in this buyer’s guide, but by no means does it feel like it. The standout feature is Coast’s Double Lock System, which provides a secondary means of preventing the blade from closing unintentionally (and reminds us of CRKT’s Locking Liner Safety). Its skeletonized frame-lock body isn’t just for looks; it helps keep the overall weight of the hefty stainless steel handle down. Made in China.
411: In the late ’70s and early ’80s, Al Mar Knives was among the first to popularize tactical knives. Flash forward almost four decades and Kershaw is now teaming up with the company to bring its vintage designs into the 21st century, and doing it with contemporary updates and quality materials, but at reasonable prices. The AM-4 is one such example, adding a flipper, frame-lock, and SpeedSafe-assisted opening — all for 50 bucks. Made in China.
411: In the past year or so, Gerber has launched something of a new initiative: bring in a fresh generation of fans by giving them a wide range of entry-level knives at low costs. Some perform better than others. But fear not: The Haul can hold its own. Made in China and also available with an orange handle, this assisted-opening folder is ideal if you like beefy knives that look modern, but won’t cost you a mortgage payment.
411: As part of Outdoor Edge’s Survival Series, the Divide is designed for campers, hunters, hikers, and preppers. But this large folder could feel right at home in concrete jungles, too. It was codesigned by company president David Bloch and custom knife-maker Jerry Hossom. Made in China, the Divide also comes in baby brother size (6.9 inches overall). Both small and large versions have options for a plain edge or a partially serrated edge.
PROS: Despite its stature, the knife fits well in our medium-sized hands. Lowest price tag Sharp out of the box Drop-point is our favorite blade shape for everyday carry (EDC) due to its versatility.
PROS: Aluminum handle is ergonomic. Adjustable pocket clip for righties or lefties Built in Bear & Son’s Alabama factory
PROS: Assembled in China? We couldn’t tell. Made of Japanese Acuto 440 steel, the blade shreds cardboard like a machine. Flipper tab and linerlock work seamlessly Handle is made of our favorite material: G10.
PROS: Double Lock System Robust construction Comfy handle Easy on the wallet
PROS: Feels as great in hand as it looks. Unlike many other frame-locks, the AM-4 is easy to unlock. Polished and contoured G10 front scale Kershaw’s SpeedSafe assisted opening is fast and smooth.
PROS: Fits perfectly, regardless of grip style (i.e. thumb-supported, hammer, reverse, etc.) Surprisingly, the Chinese 5Cr15MoV blade slices and stabs with ease. Cross-bolt safety with plunge lock is safe and easy to use. Assisted opening deploys blade with a satisfying “thwak” sound.
PROS: Opens easily, whether by flipper tab or ambidextrous thumbstuds The 8Cr13MoV blade made short work of cardboard during our test cutting. Disengaging the framelock doesn’t feel like you’re arm-wrestling yourself, as sometimes happens with knives of this type.
CONS: Partial serrations are better suited for larger blades used for sawing fibrous material, such as rope or branches. Pocket clip orientation is tip-down and righthanded only.
CONS: The action is sluggish. The blade has a bit of lateral play. The liner-lock feels gritty when disengaging it to close the blade.
CONS: Forefinger groove is a little too pronounced, meaning folks with bigger index fingers might find it too tight a spot.
CONS: Even though it has a three-position pocket clip, this frame-lock knife is only ideal for right-handers. Not the sharpest blade of the bunch.
CONS: Sorry, frame-lock translates as “righties only”
CONS: While a nice addition, the gritty cross-bolt safety needed some lube. Glass-filled nylon handle scuffs easily and won’t hold up as well over time as other materials.
CONS: Ergonomics for the handle make it comfortable for a saber grip, but less so for other grips (e.g. thumb-supported or reverse). Right-handed orientation only
Fit most AK-47s, AK-74s and variants, stamped and milled!
◆ Installs in minutes, with no permanent modifications, easy to follow instructions and tools included ◆ Lightweight rugged construction of 6061 aluminum, hard coat anodized for a lifetime of service ◆ Battle proven patented clamping system: US Patent D625,765S ◆ Optic specific models include US patented design features ◆ The highest quality, most affordable AK handguards on the market! ◆ 100% Made in the U.S.A. - MI Lifetime warranty
M-LOK™ COMPATIBLE!
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MI Gen2 Universal
MI Gen2 Universal
AK Handguard
AK Handguard
◆ KeyMod compatible design includes one five slot picatinny rail section ◆ Weighs only 8 ounces! ◆ Two anti-rotation QD sockets for QD sling swivels ◆ Requirements for fit: Barrel diameter of .700 under lower handguard; Lower furniture length of 6 inches, not counting mounting surface; Upper gas tube furniture length of 4 inches, not counting mounting surface.
◆ M-LOK™ compatible design includes one five slot picatinny rail section ◆ Weighs only 7.5 ounces! ◆ Two anti-rotation QD sockets for QD sling swivels ◆ Requirements for fit: Barrel diameter of .700 under lower handguard; Lower furniture length of 6 inches, not counting mounting surface; Upper gas tube furniture length of 4 inches, not counting mounting surface.
With Rail Topcover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .#MI-AKG2-UK Retail $179.95 With T1 Optic Specific Topcover . . . . . . .#MI-AKG2-UKT1 Retail $179.95 With MRO Optic Specific Topcover . .#MI-AKG2-UKMRO Retail $179.95
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KeyMod COMPATIBLE!
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MI Gen2 Extended Universal AK Handguard
KeyMod compatible design includes one five slot picatinny rail section Four anti-rotation QD sockets for QD sling swivels Supplied MI gas tube with proper internal geometry 11.5 inches in length, weighs only 16 ounces! Requirements for fit: Barrel diameter of .700 under lower handguard; Lower furniture length of 6”, not counting mounting surface; Will not fit Yugo pattern rifles.
With Rail Topcover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .#MI-AKXG2-UK Retail $254.95 With T1 Optic Specific Topcover . . . . .#MI-AKXG2-UKT1 Retail $254.95 With MRO Optic Specific Topcover .#MI-AKXG2-UKMRO Retail $254.95
MI AK Railed Gas Tube
MI Gen2 Extended Universal AK Handguard
M-LOK™ compatible design includes one five slot picatinny rail section Four anti-rotation QD sockets for QD sling swivels Supplied MI gas tube with proper internal geometry 11.5 inches in length, weighs only 16 ounces! Requirements for fit: Barrel diameter of .700 under lower handguard; Lower furniture length of 6”, not counting mounting surface; Will not fit Yugo pattern rifles.
With Rail Topcover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .#MI-AKXG2-UM Retail $244.95 With T1 Optic Specific Topcover . . . . .#MI-AKXG2-UMT1 Retail $244.95 With MRO Optic Specific Topcover #MI-AKXG2-UMMRO Retail $244.95
◆ Provides lower 1/3 co-witness sight picture with Aimpoint micro red dot sights ◆ Internal profile made to the same profile as the standard AK gas tube ◆ Constructed of 6061 aluminum and 4140 steel
◆ With mil-spec top rail ◆ Easy installation with no permanent modifications to the firearm ◆ Rock solid mounting with MI patent pending mounting feature
Standard AK with approx 6.75” gas tube .#MI-AKRGT Yugo M70 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .#MI-AKRGT-Y Yugo M92 PAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .#MI-AKRGT-M92 Yugo M85 PAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .#MI-AKRGT-M85
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MUZZLE DEVICE Available with 3-prong flash hider or Barrett muzzle brake.
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BY STEVEN KUO
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3 8
WE BUILD AN AR THAT TAKES AK MAGS
REC O ILW E B .C O M
52
In this issue of RECOIL, we celebrate
to roll our own AK tribute, so we used
the AK, in all its splendor and varia-
their upper, lower, action spring, and
tions. What better way to honor it
custom bolt carrier group as the basis
than by building a 7.62x39mm AR.
for our build. Unlike CMMG’s 7.62x39
And not one that takes weird unreli-
Mutant, with its stretched dimensions,
able mags shaped like the letter J,
BRS’s receivers conform to the stan-
but one that happily feeds from the
dard AR-15 footprint — thus explain-
original banana mag.
ing the slightly cramped trigger guard.
Billet Rifle Systems offers a re-
Our next selection was Faxon’s ni-
ceiver set tailor made for this build.
trided 16-inch barrel with mid-length
stock on it with LAW Tactical’s
The lower receiver has a yawning AK
gas system. BRS recommended open-
clever stock adapter. Mission
magwell, a stainless steel cross pin,
ing up the gas port by a few thou-
First Tactical’s buttstock was
and a paddle mag release to accept
sandths of an inch for optimal func-
both functional and evocative of
rock-n-lock mags like an AK-inspired
tion. We topped the barrel off with a
metal folding stocks found on various
AR truly should. The upper sports a
SureFire muzzle brake and suppressor
AK-pattern rifles. You can’t discharge
sweet non-reciprocating side charging
adapter so we could attach a can for
the rifle with the stock folded, but
handle, on the left side where proper-
our next hog hunt.
it’s very handy for transport — and,
handed shooters expect it to be. BRS sells entire rifles too, but we wanted
An under-folding stock wasn’t an option, but we put a side-folding
let’s be honest, it looks cool and was perfect for our AK theme.
IS SUE 3 8
53 REC O ILW E B .C O M
When you picture an AK in your mind, we’d bet that it has wood furniture. It took some digging, but we found hand-finished walnut rail panels and pistol grips from Black Wood USA; their military red finish was perfect for our theme. The M-LOK panels are a little chunky, a great match with Centurion Arms’ very low-profile 15inch handguard.
7.62X39 AR
On top, we attached a Burris XTR II
at 40x — and it delivered 1 MOA
match for this rifle. We initially put
shok (the most accurate load in our
it in a QD mount but kept hitting the
7.62x39 ammo roundup in Issue 26)
levers when working the side-charging
and Winchester’s Super-X ammo. Who
handle; we switched to an Aero Preci-
says 7.62x39mm can’t be precise?
sion mount, completely smooth on the
Other groups generally ranged from
left side and very light and affordable
1.5 to 2.5 MOA, and most loads
to boot. For backup iron sights, we
posted average muzzle velocities just
mounted Sidewinder sights from Strike
over 2,300 fps on our Magnetospeed
Industries, which flip out as 45-degree
chronograph (at 92 degrees F and
3 8
five-shot groups with Federal’s Power-
offset sights or up as traditional sights.
32-percent humidity). As usual, the
ITEM
MSRP
IS SUE
1-5x scope with CQ mil reticle, a nice
The other parts, pins, and springs
Magnetospeed proved its worth, as we
Billet Rifle Systems BRS-47 Receiver Set (Side Charging)
$649
to complete the build we also got from
strapped it to the handguard and left
Strike, except for the ambidextrous
it there during accuracy testing while
Billet Rifle Systems 7.62x39mm Bolt Carrier Group
200
Billet Rifle Systems Action Spring
20
Faxon Firearms 7.62x39mm 16-inch Barrel
185 46
REC O ILW E B .C O M
54
safety selector from AIM Surplus.
simultaneously capturing velocity data.
We also installed a drop-in trigger
One item to note: BRS’s receiver is
but found it wouldn’t ignite the hard
tuned specifically for Magpul’s MOE
Faxon Firearms Gas Block and Tube
primers in 7.62x39mm ammo roughly
AK PMAGs, which ran 100-percent in
SureFire 7.62 Muzzle Brake
149
our testing. Magpul’s Gen M3 maga-
Centurion Arms M-LOK CMR Handguard
240 115
5 percent of the time. We swapped in a crisp HIPERFIRE Eclipse trigger,
zines surprisingly have slightly differ-
Black Wood USA Wood Rail Panels and Handstop
setting up its springs to deliver more
ent geometry and wouldn’t quite clear
Black Wood USA Featherweight Wood Grip
150
hammer energy than stock, and the
the mag catch to lock in place. Some
LAW Tactical AR Folding Stock Adapter
269
problems went away.
steel AK magazines would lock in, but
BCM Carbine Stock Hardware Mounting Kit
65
Finally, we always install a light and
experienced some feeding problems.
Mission First Tactical Battlelink Minimalist Stock
60
sling on rifles intended for use beyond
Bottom line — use MOE PMAGs with
HIPERFIRE Hipertouch Eclipse Trigger
275
competition. The SureFire M600DF
this gun, and it won’t let you down.
Strike Industries Lower Parts Kit
35
scout light puts out 1,500 blinding
Also, the bolt doesn’t lock back when
lumens with its rechargeable 18650
empty, but neither do AKs.
Strike Industries Enhanced Ultimate Dust Cover
16
Strike Industries Forward Assist
19
loaded, the rifle handled beautifully
AIM Surplus AR Ambi Safety Selector
23
mount, which pulls the light in tight
and shot softer and flatter than we
Burris XTR II 1-5x24mm Riflescope
959
against the handguard. A suitably aus-
expected for a 7.62x39. BRS spent
Aero Precision Ultralight SPR Scope Mount
95 160
battery, mounted in a slick Impact Weapon Components Thorntail2
Weighing in at 9.3 pounds un-
tere but functional Proctor sling with
a lot of effort dialing in their system,
Strike Industries Sidewinder Backup Iron Sights
QD swivels finished off the build.
and it shows. With the Eclipse trigger
SureFire M600DF Scout Light
299
set at 3 pounds, we ripped off smok-
Impact Weapon Components Thorntail2 Light Mount
50
At the range, we tried eight different types of ammo, both domestic and
ing splits with huge grins on our faces.
imported. All ran perfectly, aside from
This gun is a blast — we’re definitely
the light strikes before we switched
taking it to some rifle matches. It
Proctor Sling w/ QD Swivels
44
triggers. To assess accuracy poten-
turned out great, and we hope Mikhail
Magpul PMAG 30 AK/AKM MOE
14
tial, we benched it with a Nightforce
would approve.
Totals
$4,156
Impact Weapon Components QD Sling Mount 19
M I C R O
9
S T A I N L E S S
R A P T O R
FOR TH E I NDIVI DUAL RECOIL ABSORBING ALL METAL CONSTRUCTION, 1911-STYLE ERGONOMICS, NIGHT SIGHTS FOR LOW LIGHT CONDITIONS, CHAMBERED IN 9MM.
MADE IN A MERIC A
WHAT ALL GUNS SHOULD BE
TM
(888) 243-4522 kimberamerica.com
©2018, Kimber Mfg., Inc. All rights reserved. Information and specifications are for reference only and subject to change without notice.
3 8 IS SUE REC O ILW E B .C O M
58
DRESSING UP AN SKS-M AS A CHINESE TYPE 84, BUT BETTER BY DAVE MERRILL
offensive use (in the United States at
The year was 1999; RECOIL wasn’t
OK, we know this article isn’t
even a glimmer in Iain’s eye, having
carved onto a cave wall, and that
only been in the United States for
nothing much of substance happened
a few months. Soon, the developed
at the turn of the millennium sans a
models from nearly a dozen separate
world would come crashing down, as
few unplanned pregnancies. However,
nations, your standard fare SKS was a
computers across the globe would
this article is a little bit about that,
semiautomatic, 7.62x39mm, 20-inch
cause rolling blackouts due to a
because that was also the last calen-
barreled affair that fed from an inter-
simple date error: Yes, ladies and
dar year the SKS could be considered
nal 10-round magazine. Loading and
gentlemen, we’re talking about Y2K.
a pragmatic or practical choice for
reloading took place with stripper clips.
least; sorry, Canada). Though there are variations and
Many were imported with folding bayo-
Remember, this was a magic time
some shiny ones all dolled up for pa-
nets that couldn’t be quickly removed
when the mantra, “Get whatever
rade across the iron curtain, but that’s
from the rifle without the use of tools.
AR-15 that you want, provided it’s
the most common use for it now.
They were inexpensive and read-
made by ABC: Armalite, Bushmaster,
The same couldn’t be said of Red
ily available, which goes a long way
or Colt,” was mostly true. A cheap
China. When they received the official
to explaining their popularity in the
SKS was roughly the tenth of a price
tooling from Tula Arsenal in the ’50s,
United States. Hell, an entire cottage
of a Colt.
they embraced it. For nearly three de-
industry was invented seemingly
Ultimately, the American heyday
cades it remained their go-to, mass-
solely to peddle awful accessories.
of the SKS was extinguished for
issue rifle. While they spent some
Some of these efforts were attempts
exactly the same reason the Russian
time dabbling with new designs in the
to address the shortcomings relative
one was: the increased availability of
early ’70s, it wouldn’t be until the
to modern rifles, and some left us
the AK/AKM. Long gone is the time
far-superior Type 81 Assault Rifles
just sadly shaking our heads. Chassis
when you’d buy an SKS for practical
were fielded in the ’80s that SKSs
systems. Folding stocks. Wobbly railed
reasons, solely consigned instead to
began to drop off the scene.
top covers. Weird ugly duck billed
nerdy Com-Blok collectors.
removable magazines — you’ve seen them all, of that we’re certain.
It’s been said that the People’s
To the Russians, the SKS is a bit
Liberation Army prized the accuracy
like the American M14 — an awkward
of the SKS; if that’s true, their mea-
middle child, never heavily fielded for
suring sticks must have been made
any significant period, and largely rel-
in China as well. Rather than allowing
egated to the rear. Sure, you’ve seen
the AK to replace the SKS wholesale, the Chinese military treated them as hybrids along the way.
IS SUE
complimentary weapons — with some
3 8
59 REC O ILW E B .C O M
THE HOTTEST CASHIER AT DOLLAR TREE While the SKS-M looks baller with a bakelite, we can’t ignore the beauty with the bayonet.
EATING FROM AK MAGS One such Moreau-esque amalgam
features like bayonet lugs. Because
a shorter 16.5-inch barrel, a corre-
drive-by bayonet assaults were appar-
spondingly shorter spike bayonet, and
ently a huge problem in the 1980s. the SKS-M. With a real name scripted
cause each magazine had to be indi-
on the side of the receiver rather than
vidually hand-fit to the gun; they were
a dealer denomination, the SKS-M
even serialized together. Because AK
was most often imported with the
magazines, even ones heavily hand
shorter 16.5-inch “paratrooper” bar-
modded, don’t work with the SKS
rel. And, of course, with dangerous
bolt-hold-open system (incredibly
features like the bayonet removed.
important for rifles that traditionally
The SKS-M had a “sporting” stock,
ate from strippers — there’s a joke
either consisting of a Monte Carlo-
there someplace), the Type 84 had a
style that almost looks like a standard
unique button on top of the bolt car-
stock, or the dreaded thumbhole.
3 8
In 1989, USA Navy Arms imported
IS SUE
At this time, we also began seeing
AK magazines. We say “almost” be-
rier to lock it in place.
REC O ILW E B .C O M
all of which had fewer “assault rifle”
was the Chinese Type 84. It featured
— importantly — could almost accept
60
hand, “sporting rifles” were allowed,
While more of these rifles came in than the Chinese Type 84, a trade dis-
some to the United States. We’ve
pute in 1993 ended Chinese importa-
heard as few as 400 of these rifles
tion of most all firearms and ammuni-
hit American shores. It was and
tion shortly thereafter (you can still
remains the only SKS import that had
get shotguns though — see our piece
the shorter 16.5-inch barrel, stubby
on the Lynx-12 in Issue 37).
bayonet, and ability to accept AK
Since we wanted a Type 84, we’d
magazines, albeit modified ones.
have to start our journey by first ob-
AK magazines are commonly avail-
taining an SKS-M.
able, fast to reload, and offer a significant upgrade to other cobbled-together detachable magazines for SKSs. So, of course, we had to have one. And also make it better. While you could dig deep in your
TREASURE HUNT The firearms market is completely upside down compared to two decades ago. Instead of an SKS costing a mere fraction of an AR-15, SKS prices often
pockets and scour the depths of
meet or even exceed those of a basic
Gunbroker or Armslist looking for
AR. And a special one like an SKS-M?
one of those rare birds, we made one
Good luck.
ourselves instead.
We happened upon one at The Bullet Ranch, in Pataskala, Ohio,
LIMITED OPTIONS Aside from the Chinese Type 84 SKS,
and snatched it up. Monte Carlotype stock, nonexistent bayonet, and
two other variations that ate from com-
that all-important short barrel and
mon AK/AKM magazines were imported.
magazine well. What we didn’t know
The first was dubbed the SKS-D by
is that this would be just the start of
dealers to differentiate them from the
our journey.
fixed magazine fodder. It looked like
The appropriate foreign parts
a standard CHICOMM SKS, differing
were very easy to obtain online and
mainly by accepting AK magazines.
relatively inexpensive, including the
These rifles came in before the
shortened paratrooper spike bayonet.
George H. W. Bush administration
But alas, the hardest part had yet
banned the importation of so-called
to come: compliance with the law,
“assault rifles” in 1989. On the other
specifically 922(r).
THE HOTTEST CASHIER AT DOLLAR TREE Essentially, 922(r) means that you can’t simply take an imported “sporting rifle” and give it “assault features” without first increasing the amount of American-made parts. And no, not every little screw counts. There are 20 “parts” specifically listed in Title 18 Chapter 44 Section 922(r), further broken down in Title 27 Part 478.39 of the Code of Federal Regulation. Yes, we also feel like we need a lawyer just to read that sentence. Not every specified 922(r) part corresponds to an actual part on an imported rifle. Thus depending on the design of your rifle, varying numbers of American compliance parts may be needed. Regardless of the foreign rifle you’re converting from “sporting” status, the law says that you can have
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3 8
no more than 10 foreign parts from
REC O ILW E B .C O M
62
that list of 20. Because the SKS isn’t nearly as popular as other imported rifles, it can be harder to find appropriate compliance parts. Furthermore, not every compliance part is a simple “drop in” fit with our SKS-M because of its shortened gas system. Deciding to go with the belt and suspenders approach, we replaced more than technically necessary in order to ensure there could be no question about its legality. We begged and bartered for a U.S.made fire control group, then wrestled with installing it. We took a brand new and shiny U.S.-made gas piston and shortened it to work with the truncated gas system. And we begrudgingly only used U.S.-made magazines. With a twist of irony, we note that U.S. magazines need to be modified to fit. Just like regular AK magazines in the Chinese Type 84. But once we had all of our parts and pieces, we could put it all together. We’re thankful Chinese manufacturers used wood approximately as soft as soap, which made hogging the magwell out much easier.
Stripped down, the SKS-M looks normal, sans the mag lock and magwell.
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3 8
THE HOTTEST CASHIER AT DOLLAR TREE
64 REC O ILW E B .C O M
And oh yeah — we had the barrel threaded.
pistol grip. The ability to use your shooting hand to pull the rifle back into your shoulder for better recoil
ON THE RANGE We wish we could say that this was a pleasant rifle to shoot, but that would The GoGun USA brake made a huge difference in recoil.
dard stock. Maybe we got a lemon, but benched
be a bald faced lie. The bare muzzle
group sizes at 100 yards were in ex-
and heavy gas resulted in more recoil
cess of 5 inches. Precise indeed.
than the 7.62x39 normally metes out. Some like the fully hooded front sight of CHICOMM guns; we aren’t among them.
control is diminished with the stan-
To help with the recoil, we in-
The brass (err ... steel) casings seemed
stalled a SuperComp XL from GoGun
to fly as far as the bullets themselves.
USA. Sure, it doesn’t look like a
Furthermore, though it might sound a tad strange, we missed having a
Chinese Type 84 anymore, but boy was it more fun to shoot and easy to remove. And, of course, we also installed a Surefire SOCOM762-MINI2. After carefully checking alignment, we gave it a go. If brass went as far as the bullet with a bare muzzle, we’re pretty sure we put some in orbit with the suppressor mounted. There’s no way we can recommend silencing an SKS unless some special measures are taken, lest you end up with bent pistons and destroyed rifles.
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THE HOTTEST CASHIER AT DOLLAR TREE
Safety off
IS SUE
3 8
Safety on
LOOSE ROUNDS Like a road trip with friends, this
66
We’d then have the ability to legally
the journey than the destination.
use whatever magazine we want. Until
a DIY Chinese Type 84, but better? Kind of. Once we track down three more 922R compliance parts that
SPEC BOX
job, we’ll say mission accomplished.
project turned out to be more about Did we accomplish our mission of
REC O ILW E B .C O M
don’t make it look like a Y2K bubba
then, our rifle suffers the same fate as the Chinese Type 84. But when that happens, she’ll be the hottest cashier at Dollar Tree.
SKS-M, DRESSED UP AS A TYPE 84
CALIBER
7.62x39mm BARREL LENGTH
16.5 inches OVERALL LENGTH
35.5 inches WEIGHT (UNLOADED)
8 pounds MAGAZINE CAPACITY
5- to 40-round MSRP
$ $800
NEW S.O.A.R.® BALLHEAD OPTIMIZE STABILITY. MAXIMIZE ACCURACY.
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© All rights reserved, 2018
WARNING! When handling firearms, always observe safety rules and the precautions set forth in the firearm’s owner’s guide. Be certain that your firearm is unloaded and made safe before proceeding with this DIY.
IS SUE 3 8
71
battle. Back in Issue 26, we covered a pair of dedicated AK silencers — one from Gemtech and another from Dead Air. Since that time, a handful of other purpose-built Kalashnikov suppressors have been released, but what if you don’t want to buy a silencer specifically for an AK? That’s what this article is for. Chances are, if someone only owns one silencer, it’s either for 22LR or for 7.62N — this piece is for those who fall into the latter category. A 7.62N silencer as a “do all” is a very common first NFA purchase. The rationale behind a 7.62N can is pretty simple: companies typically
USING YOUR MARY-SUE SUPPRESSOR ON AN AK VARIANT BY DAVE MERRILL
advertise them as being good for 5.56 and other smaller calibers as well. But if you want to use your normal 7.62N silencer, undoubtedly not designed for AKs, there’s some work you have to do to overcome the issues. Threads are often not concentric to the bore — blame
REC O ILW E B .C O M
Want to silence an AK? You have an uphill
Soviet precision. Rarely is an AK thread
far the most commonly seen thread pat-
muzzle itself and not on the front sight.
pattern readily available in your standard
tern on a 7.62x39 AK is 14x1LH, though
We recommend the Griffin Armament
fare silencer, and there’s no shoulder to
24mm x 1.5mm takes second place,
thread adapter for general purposes, and
speak of for a silencer to seat against.
especially with 5.45 AKs. Other thread-
not just some random one you found
AKs are already so overgassed; adding
ing exists, like 22mm (for Romanian
online cheap.
backpressure from a silencer just makes
5.45/5.56 guns) and 26mm specifically
it a heavily recoiling mess.
for some Yugoslavian AKs.
And yet, it can still be done. We’ll
Regardless, your standard 7.62N
show you a variety of ways to overcome
silencer is unlikely to come in one of
these issues, all while using your normal
these thread patterns.
7.62N silencer. These methods can each
Take care to note that any specialized quick disconnect adapter threaded for an AK also should index on the muzzle, not the front sight. If your thread adapter or muzzle
For best results, you should send
device threads completely on, index-
be used piecemeal, or you can combine
your rifle in to be threaded properly
ing on the front sight instead of the
them. Before heading to your workbench,
in 5/8x34 — but not only can this be
muzzle, it’s a poor choice for use with
be forewarned that not all suppressor
costly, it’s also often impossible. So
a suppressor. If you just want a muzzle
companies will honor their warranties
you’re left with thread adapters.
brake? Go with God. The main concern
if used on an AK, for all of the reasons
But you can’t just buy the first $15
with suppressors is that any angular
thread adapter you find on Amazon.
deviation from the bore is exponentially
One major issue is that AKs don’t have
exacerbated the longer the device that
a solid shoulder to butt up against, in-
you attach. A stubby 1-inch brake may
First and foremost, we have to ad-
stead utilizing a front sight block right at
give you no issue, but the same can’t
dress the thread patterns on an AK. By
the end of the threads. Using adapters,
be said of a 6- or 10-inch silencer.
in general and on AKs in particular, is a
COST: $60 TO $70
we’ve already outlined.
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3 8
ADAPTERS
bad idea — you’re stacking tolerances that you don’t want to and exponentially
REC O ILW E B .C O M
72 The more parts you stack, the more you increase your odds of a baffle strike.
RODS
increase your chance of a baffle strike.
Even if your chosen silencer has a
If you have to use a thread adapter
thread pattern that works directly with
or a custom muzzle device for your pat-
your AK, you absolutely need to check
terned AK, use one that indexes on the
alignment before firing to ensure you avoid a baffle strike and the shrapnel that can come along with it. With an AR-15 or similar, it’s a fairly straight-
Always ensure your bore rod fits perfectly on the bolt face.
forward process to pull an upper and eyeball it, but the same can’t be done with an AK. Even if you strip everything down, the rear trunnion will get in the way of a completely straight view down the muzzle. So what can you do? Rod it.
If any part of the alignment rod touches any part of the silencer — no-go.
GAP (Good)
NO GAP (Bad)
TAMING THE BEAST Opinions vary on what alignment rod
not only reduce recoil and muzzle
to use, with Geissele generally consid-
rise, but will increase internal parts
ered the best and CNC Warrior rods
longevity. While there are several
as a second. Some use precision drill
options, we’ve found the Snakehound
rods from McMaster-Carr for the same
Machine (SHM) spring kits to be
purpose, though the tolerances aren’t
fantastic for this purpose.
as precise as Geissele’s offerings. After mounting the silencer, insert
Not only do you receive a much stronger recoil spring in the pack, but
the alignment rod into the end of the
also a hammer and extractor spring
suppressor and allow it to fall to the
(the latter must be cut to fit). With
bolt face of the rifle. If any point of the
most AKs, the SHM kits will work
rod makes contact with the silencer —
suppressed or unsuppressed, because
consider it a no-go and do not shoot
the AK-series rifles have such a large
the AK with the silencer attached.
operational window.
If you’re using either a 5.45 or
Swapping recoil springs on an AK
5.56 AK with a 7.62N silencer, you
may seem daunting at first glance, but
have a bit more wiggle room for align-
it’s actually a fairly easy process.
ment, but you still shouldn’t pull the
To replace your recoil spring:
trigger on a rifle that fails an align-
1. Remove the recoil spring assembly.
ment test. AK-specific silencers, such
2. Pull back on the spring and use a
as the Dead Air Wolverine PBS-1, continually larger further down the
pair of vise grips to hold the recoil spring to the rear. 3. Spread the two spring bars to remove the end piece of the recoil
ment — but even still, don’t shoot a
spring assembly. (Watch out! It can fly off).
COST: $19 TO $75
5. Install the new SHM recoil spring and
SPRINGING IT
6. Spread spring bars apart to reinstall
hold it to the rear with vise grips. As mentioned, AKs are gas hogs. Part of the mythical reliability of an AK-series rifle stems from the fact
end piece. 7. Remove vise grips and reinstall the parts.
that they tap so much gas from the
Even if you choose another method
bore, allowing the bolt carrier group
for suppressing an AK, the SHM spring
to fully cycle even when extremely
upgrade should be used in conjunction
fouled. Attaching a silencer to the
with it.
end exacerbates this, with the
COST: $25
backpressure the silencer creates pushing gas not only through the piston system, but also back through the barrel itself. This leads to greater recoil and increased parts wear. No, regardless
BUFFERS AND GAS BUSTERS The increased gas from the addition of a silencer means your bolt speed will be higher than usual. While a standard buffer setup
of what you’ve read on a gun forum
will protect your rear trunnion
someplace, the AK isn’t infallible and
from undue wear from bolt
can and will break.
cycling, it also reduces
Adding heavier springs doesn’t solve
some of the leaded gas
the problem of excessive gas, but it
rolling into your face.
does cut down on the symptoms. The
But you can take it a
addition of more robust springs will
step further.
73 REC O ILW E B .C O M
rod test.
4. Remove the current recoil spring
A pair of vise grips makes swapping in Snakehound springs a snap. Without them, you’re liable to lose an eye.
3 8
suppressor to help mitigate misaligngun that doesn’t pass a rudimentary
IS SUE
use baffles with apertures that get
TAMING THE BEAST A common AR-15 mod is making a “DIY Gas Buster” charging handle
the original piston has to be removed.
utilizing RTV silicone, and the same
For many guns, this just involves a
can be done with an AK. For this mod,
punch and a hand drill. But if you’re
all you need is a cheap AK buffer,
unlucky enough to have a piston that’s
some cooking spray, and black RTV
welded in place, like many CAI imported
silicone (commonly available at any
guns, installation is far more daunting.
auto parts store).
There’s no guarantee that you won’t
While red RTV silicone is most
of removing a welded piston, and many
more resistant to oil, so we utilize it for
don’t consider it a worthwhile venture. rier, removal of the OEM piston and
2. Install buffer on recoil spring assem-
installation of the KNS is fairly easy.
3. Spray rear trunnion and inside of top release agent.
1. Strip the BCG and put in a vise.
5. Replace top cover. 3 8
inch punch, and 1/8-inch drill bit. OK, maybe a Dremel too.
buffer and in/around rear trunnion.
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All you need is a vise, hand drill, 1/8-
cover with cooking spray to act as a 4. Gob the black RTV silicone onto the
REC O ILW E B .C O M
If you have a standard pinned car-
1. Field strip AK and degrease. bly, install back into BCG.
6. Allow silicone to cure for 24 to 48 hours. 7. After curing, disassemble AK, remove excess cooking oil. Ugly? Absolutely. Functional? You betcha. Gas to the face is significantly
2. Locate the rivet head; sometimes you’ll have to remove some finish to find it. 3. Partially drill the rivet out, and use the punch to completely remove. 4. Rotate out the OEM piston. 5. Install the KNS piston and secure with the included roll pin. After installation, the piston has to be
reduced.
tuned. There are over 100 settings, so
COST: $18
it may take you a bit of time to find your desired sweet spot. Also, bear in mind
GAS PISTONS Every fix and solution up to this point
that the piston will have to be adjusted when taking the silencer on or off for
only addresses the symptoms and not
optimal performance. Note that since
the root causes. But not this one. The
the gas is vented internally, though car-
KNS adjustable gas piston allows gas to
rier speeds are reduced, you’ll still get
vent from the piston itself, slowing the
the additional gas in your face.
movement of the BCG. Less parts wear
COST: $149 TO $165
and reduced recoil — what’s not to love? Well, a couple of things: At the time of this writing, 19 differ-
CUSTOM GAS BLOCKS This option is for those more
ent pistons are available covering the
daring-minded, as it involves perma-
vast majority of AK/AKM variants. You’ll
nent modification to your rifle.
need to choose the one that corresponds to your rifle.
Black RTV Silicone being squished on as a seal against gas may look ugly — but it’s effective. Not that the insides of AKs are pretty anyway ...
destroy your bolt carrier in the process
commonly used on an AR, the black is our purposes.
74
In order to install the KNS gas piston,
Unlike the KNS gas piston, this modification vents excess gas to the
Hell, you probably have half of this already.
TAMING THE BEAST atmosphere, virtually eliminating any gas
an unvented cap screw from your local
to the face. But in addition to permanent
hardware store for unsuppressed use.
modification and tuning, you’ll now have
open the hole in the vented cap screw
1. Using a #21 drill bit (5/32 is the
until it reliably cycles at the speed you
closest fractional size), drill a hole in
desire. While we’d normally advocate for
the gas block forward of the end of
a drill press, it’s not practical for most
the gas piston.
to run to the range with them. A field
2. Thread the hole to 10/32, utilizing a quality tap and handle. 3. Obtain several vented cup-point cap
3 8 IS SUE REC O ILW E B .C O M
expedient method is to use a pair of vise grips to secure the vented cap screw while drilling.
screws — McMaster-Carr sells a 10-
If you make the hole too large? Well,
pack for $5.16 (PN 7573841421).
maybe that’s why McMaster-Carr sells it
Now it’s tuning time. Head to the
in a 10-pack.
range with the rifle and silencer of your
76
Install your suppressor and slowly
some small parts to keep track of.
For our particular rifle/silencer combo
choice, along with a set of numbered
we have one cap screw for suppressed,
drill bits and a cordless drill. Since an
and another for unsuppressed. The extra
AK is already so vastly overgassed,
screw, along with a hex key, is stored in
there’s a decent chance it’ll run
a small baggy that conveniently fits into
unsuppressed with just the standard
the AK cleaning kit.
vented cap screw. If it doesn’t, obtain
COST: $10
While drilling and tapping the gas block is the most extreme option, it can be performed with simple tools.
3 8 IS SUE REC O ILW E B .C O M
78
LS I L S A E G I F R O T REST S U D HE RA N I T X S X E JAECREAT R
OS OT PH
ON IS RR GNE A H I IN SE IA LEN Y B A ND KE BY
HISTORY Following the Israelis’ experience of desert warfare in the 1960s, a decision was made to transition away from the 7.62 NATO cartridge for use in individual Get half a dozen dudes around a campfire, throw in
weapons, and at the same time move toward a rifle
a little whiskey and a few cigars for seasoning, and
suitable for a conscript army. What they really wanted
sooner or later a “best of” debate will emerge. No
was the AKM, but being a lone democracy with ties
matter the subject — be it music, movies, calibers, or
to the West surrounded by Soviet-backed dictator-
women — there’ll be few staunch holdouts, defiantly
ships, Moscow was hardly going to give up the blue-
clinging to their opinions while a larger consensus
prints to Kalashikov’s brainchild, especially at the
emerges. This is a good thing, part of the long human
height of the Cold War.
tradition of civilized discourse among peers. In the case of AKs, some will claim the Bulgarians
A decade earlier, the Finnish state-owned company of Valmet started rolling out its new assault rifle, the
can’t be beat, while others point to the Finns, with
RK-62, based on a Polish, milled receiver version
their long tradition of raising their driving finger to
of the AK-47. It was notable for the quality of its
the east. The subject of this article could justifiably
materials and construction, permitting the relocation
be considered the ne plus ultra in terms of the evolu-
of the rear sight from the front trunnion to the dust
tion of the AK, at least in its milled receiver form.
cover, almost doubling the sight radius.
HEBREW HAMMER sale of which was curtailed by FOPA 86, so it can’t be sold in its original form. OK, you say. How about yanking out the full-auto parts and turning it into a semi-auto for sale as a regular firearm? Well, there are two problems with that, principally the 1936 National Firearms Act, which classifies it as a short-barreled rifle, and the subsequent interpretation of the same, which as far as we can tell, some pencil jockey pulled out of his ass. The ruling goes “once a machine gun, always a machine gun,” even if extensive steps are taken to ensure it can’t be converted back. Which makes as much sense as asserting that the turd you flushed this morning is identical to last night’s steak dinner. In order to comply with the law, as 3 8
turer must first destroy the original
IS SUE
f*cked up as it may be, the manufacreceiver, completely disassemble the gun, and put the whole shebang back together on a new frame. As the
80
result is sold as a pistol and minus a
REC O ILW E B .C O M
buttstock, it doesn’t need to comply with the requirements of USC 922(r), Using the RK-62 as a base, a
which pertains to the number of
design team headed by Yisrael Galil
foreign-made parts permitted in an
converted the Finnish rifle to accept
ostensibly U.S.-made firearm. But
the 5.56 M193 cartridge — following
only if it’s a shotgun or rifle. Don’t get
trials in the early ’70s, it was adopted
us started.
as the IDF’s official rifle. During its
Despite the manifest ass-clownery
20-year service life, the Galil served
of sundry branches of government,
as the basis for a family of weapons,
the resulting gat is pretty squared-
including a carbine, light support
away. That said, it’s a collector’s gun,
weapon, and PDW version. It’s this
albeit one that’s eminently desirable
last variant, introduced in 1992 as
from a practical standpoint.
the Galil MAR, that was used to create the final iteration of the entire line, the model 699, featuring a left-
With a 300Blk 9-inch barrel and left-side charging handle, the Galil 699 is no longer the firearm equivalent of drinking cabbage soup from a straw boot.
OVERVIEW Bear in mind, the gun in question
side charging handle. And it’s this
incorporates parts that already have
version that the Henderson, Nevada-
a few miles on them. That said, the
based Jaxx Industries recreated for
heart and soul are brand new and
the U.S. market.
American made, comprising a CNC
Now, in a sane and rational uni-
Warrior billet receiver and a Green
verse, it should be possible to simply
Mountain barrel, both of which have
import the Galil MAR and sell it to
the right numbers associated with
a willing buyer. But no. It’s a select
their raw materials, 4140 and 41v50
fire weapon, the manufacture and
respectively. After spending consid-
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USE COUPON CODE: “RECOILMAG” TO SAVE 15% © 2017 KRISS USA, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. INFORMATION AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR REFERENCE ONLY. SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE
Hand Stop
IS SUE
3 8
HEBREW HAMMER
REC O ILW E B .C O M
82
erable time machining the center,
closer to the breech, it’s considerably
the receiver is heat treated to an
shorter than standard, also serving to
appropriate degree of hardness. This
reduce weight. Instead of the typical
is important, as it acts as both the
long, wobbly piston stem of an AKM,
home for all the slidey-turney bits
this one has a short, wobbly piston
and also as the front trunnion, lock-
head pinned to the carrier extension.
ing the bolt in place and preventing
It weighs in at 12.2 versus 14 ounces
all those glorious hot gases from
— most of that diet program is due
escaping to places they shouldn’t be,
to losing 3.5 inches from the piston,
such as your face.
but some can be accounted for by the
Externally, overall quality of finish is very good. Internally, there are quite a few tool marks leftover from
large relief cut in the right side of the carrier. Weight is added through the use of
turning what appears to be 75 per-
a large, left-side charging handle, so
cent of the original slab of steel into
to keep carrier velocity in the sweet
chips. Despite this, the bolt carrier
spot while accommodating a cartridge
group runs smoothly on the receiver
with less bolt thrust, material had to
rails, with none of the “ripping a beer
be shaved wherever possible. There
can in half” feel of a typical AK.
are lightening cuts on the bolt tail as
There are several important depar-
well, and to avoid potential problems
tures from the garden-variety AK de-
with more sensitive western primers,
sign, notably a modified bolt carrier,
the 5.56 bolt has a stiffly sprung fir-
piston, gas tube, top cover, safety,
ing pin. Interestingly, the Micro Galil’s
and, of course, that side charging
recoil spring assembly is actually
handle with its associated vertical
longer than the AKM’s, by about ½
dust cover. When combined, they
inch, with a polymer buffer to cushion
make for a very refined package.
carrier impact.
In the case of the carrier and pis-
The gas tube that shorty piston
ton, due to the chopped-down barrel
runs inside is another area where the
and the need to move the gas port
Galil deviates from the holy book of
AKM bolt carrier left, 699 right
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3 8
HEBREW HAMMER
REC O ILW E B .C O M
84
Mikhail. With no rear sight to house,
way less prone to harvest the user’s
sition when the bolt’s in battery. Yes,
it’s simply dovetailed into the front
DNA than other designs. Whereas
it adds four more parts to the design,
trunnion and retained by the dust
mag changes still require the bolt
but if the most fragile component
cover, which is itself reinforced at
to be racked (there’s no last round
(the return spring) breaks, it won’t
its rearmost surface, making the
hold open), at least now the charging
interface with the rear trunnion
handle is on the correct side of the
stiffer, resulting in the rear sight
weapon and — joy of joys — there’s
being less prone to wandering. In a
no bent and twisted sheetmetal
nod to modernity, there’s a Pic rail
safety to drag your knuckles across.
welded to the upper surface of the
Kalashnikov’s attempt to keep debris
is operated by the user’s thumb and
gas tube to accept a forward-mounted
out of the gun’s mechanism by keep-
doesn’t require breaking the firing
red dot sight. Stripping the gas tube
ing the top cover as intact as possible
grip/use of the support hand/genetic
for cleaning is simplicity itself, and if
dictated the use of a right-side charg-
mutation to manipulate. Simply push
you’re not careful when removing the
ing handle. The Galil achieves the
forward when it’s time to rock ’n’ roll.
bolt, it’ll drop straight out onto the
same effect through the use of a dust
concrete — along with your Aimpoint.
cover, which rides up and down on a
dimensions, the Micro sports a black
You’ve been warned.
pair of bosses, dropping out of the
polymer handguard with a built-in
way as the bolt handle moves back
hand stop — another one of those
and forth and springing back into po-
well-thought-out design touches that
The left side of the receiver houses one feature of the gun that makes it
The SB Tactical brace will fill the gap until the Form 1 clears, but you’ll probably want to spring for the folding stock.
put the gun out of action. Below that dust cover lies a selector switch connected via a linkage to the usual AK-pattern safety/dust cover/DNA sampling device. This one
Due to its abbreviated barrel
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HEBREW HAMMER makes us believe it was developed
turn it into an SBR. This is one of the
and pair of U.S.-made polymer Tapco
with a lot of end user input. The
few instances in which paying your
Intrafuse mags. Our first impulse was
pistol grip is likewise comfortable and
$200 makes sense. Ordinarily, we’d
to employ the first to make holes in
ergonomic, without being too large
save the coin and hassle of applying
the second, because, well, Tapco. But
for smaller hands. In this case, the
for a stamp, as a pistol brace makes
it’d seem that quality has come up a
builder went to town with a soldering
the whole SBR argument somewhat
few notches in recent years — they
iron in order to further distinguish
moot. But having that cute right-side
locked into place, fed, and ejected
their wares, and a well-executed stip-
folder here makes the package so
just fine, despite being subjected to
pling job has been applied. Assuming
much more appealing, and, if you’re
the usual “slap the release with the
you like that sort of thing.
dropping three grand on a Micro, why
fresh mag” reload technique.
In order to comply with U.S. edicts,
not go all the way? Oh, and we did
the original folding stock has been replaced with an SB Tactical nota-stock, which is fixed in position. According to the Jaxx Industries website, the OEM part is still available
IS SUE
3 8
should you wish to file a Form 1 and
REC O ILW E B .C O M
86
Ejection is healthy, but not in the “launch them into the next bay” category of a typical AK.
Accuracy with SIG 124-grain FMJ
say this was a collector’s gun — it
ammo hovered around 3 MOA, which
has the price tag to prove it.
we feel is perfectly acceptable for a red dot-equipped, PDW-sized weapon.
ROUNDS DOWNRANGE Our test gun arrived with three magazines: one Israeli 35-rounder
When fed 220-grain subsonic ammo, ejection wasn’t exactly vigorous when unsuppressed, but it went back to
Button Rifled Barrel with 1/2 x 28 Threaded Muzzle
RIMFIRE REDEFINED™
Co-Branded Stock with slots under forend
Built-In Picatinny-Style Rail
Stainless Steel Bolt with Last Shot Hold Open
Flush-Fit, 10-Round Rotary Magazine
Crisp Trigger Right Out of The Box
www.TCARMS.com Precision-Machined 6061 Aluminum Receiver
#TCR22
/tcarmsco
HEBREW HAMMER flinging cases with gusto when a can was
would take care of its clients and sort
screwed in place. Installing a suppres-
out any problems, but it’s annoying,
sor requires removal of the flash hider,
nonetheless. Recoil impulse is smooth, and while
which is an eight-port design, threaded M13x1, timed with a jam nut, and fea-
there’s no mistaking that BCG slam-
turing a rifle grenade retainer spring. Fun
ming into the receiver at the end of
fact: Possession of a 22mm flash hider
its stroke, it’s not as violent as other
head separation. We encountered one with the Galil, leaving the for-
with a spring like this one puts you in
short AKs we’ve encountered. It’s not
ward part of the case jammed into its chamber, and tying up the gun
legal jeopardy with the California DOJ, as
until you’ve spent some time running
for the remainder of a range session. Occasionally, the stars align and
they regard it as the same as a live Carl
reload drills that you get to really ap-
the gods smile upon us, and the next round has just enough friction
Gustaf. But we digress.
preciate the left side charging handle.
between it and the case remnant to pop it out — in some instances
While it’s fun to challenge yourself
you almost don’t notice what’s happened as you cycle the action to
with a long, rollover break feeling
to drive down the reload speed on a
eject what you perceive as a failure to go into battery.
like that of a very light double-action
regular AK, it doesn’t take long before
Other times, the chunk of brass is so firmly wedged it needs a spe-
revolver. Reset is positive, requir-
you wish the Russians had just done it
cialist tool to break it out. This was one of those times. Unfortunately,
ing around 1⁄ 8 inch from the break,
right the first time around.
there are no stuck case removal tools we know of for the 300 BLK.
The 699’s trigger is typical AK,
The 699 Micro Galil hasn’t seen a
IS SUE
3 8
or roughly 4km from the end of the
SPEC BOX
REC O ILW E B .C O M
Fire enough rounds and you’ll eventually run headlong into a case
7.62 NATO, 5.56, and the common commie rounds are all catered
overtravel. OK, maybe that’s an exag-
lot of press, as there were only a few
for, but what to do in this instance? Fortunately, suppressor guru Mike
geration, but it’s definitely a long
thousand made for specialist us-
Papas of Dead Air came to the rescue with a workaround:
way from when the blade contacts
ers, and as far as we can tell, only a
1. Take a fired 5.56 case and partially size it in a 300 BLK sizing
the rear of the trigger guard. Despite
handful were ever imported in their
die with the neck expander removed, in order to create a false shoul-
that, we had no problems hammering
original form. If you’re in the market
der. If you don’t have dies, then tapping the case into the chamber
fast double and triple taps.
for rare AKs, Jaxx Industries has done
with a hammer is a viable alternative.
We did encounter an issue with the
88
STUCK CASE REMOVAL
a creditable job in recreating one of
2. Degrease the case thoroughly and apply a drop of cyanoacrylate
rear sight having insufficient lateral
the most unusual variants you’ll ever
adhesive to the false shoulder. That’s superglue for the grunts at the
movement to permit an accurate zero
come across. IMI will probably never
back of class.
— despite cranking it all the way over
resurrect the design, at least not with
to the left — and had this been a gun
a milled receiver, as they’ve turned
we’d cut a check for, it’d be going
their attention to the Galil ACE. This
back to the manufacturer to be fixed.
makes the 699 both highly collectible
action. You may need to use a lot of extra force to do this. In the event
We were assured that being a small,
and worthy of a place in the safe as a
that your bolt’s extractor rips through the case rim, use a cleaning rod
custom operation, Jaxx Industries
functional piece of history.
from the muzzle to tap the stuck case out.
3. Insert the case into the chamber, taking care not to get glue anywhere other than the stuck case remnant, and press it in there good and hard. 4. Wait for the glue to set up, then close the bolt and cycle the
JAXX INDUSTRIES
699 MICRO GALIL
CALIBER
300 Blackout BARREL LENGTH
9.5 inches OVERALL LENGTH
27 inches WEIGHT (UNLOADED)
6.6 pounds MAGAZINE CAPACITY
35 rounds
MSRP
$ $2,950
URL
www.jaxxindustries.com
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THE ARMS TRADE FUELING THE “NEVER ENDING CONFLICT” BY MILES VINING
christophe_cerisier/istockphoto.com
The stereotype of perpetual warfare in
examine three of the primary small arms
acquired by private citizens, but it’s a
Afghanistan has plagued the country since
markets within the capital city of Kabul. We
very lengthy process involving at least two
December of 1979, when the Soviet 40th
explore what’s available, in what quantities,
government officials to essentially take full
Army came pouring across the Amu Daryua.
and for how many good American dollars.
responsibility for an applicant should there
This kicked off an era of foreign-sponsored
And so long as we’re discussing the arms
be any wrongdoing.
insurgency, a resulting civil war that devas-
trade in Afghanistan, we also address the
tated the once great city of Kabul, Taliban
legalities of purchasing a firearm in the city,
popular Kalashnikov in numerous variants,
rule, and, currently, the second decade of
along with illegal methods.
caliber, and country of origin, are owned by various private companies that provide their
a heavily U.S.-backed presence. However, this “perpetual warfare” hasn’t always been the case in Afghan history; in fact it’s a
Self-loading rifles, such as the ever-
LEGAL(ISH) The overwhelming majority of modern
own access control point security. Licenses for these rifles are somewhat easier to ac-
tragically unique spell of continued violence
small arms outside of Afghan government
quire due to their rifles belonging to private
throughout the modern era.
control are technically illegal without a
security companies, but the registration
special permit issued by the Ministry of
process is still arduous without at minimum
the Interior. Pistol carry licenses can be
bribes of some sort.
But to fight a war — or any kind of armed conflict — arms must be acquired. We
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RUNNING GUNS IN KABUL
REC O ILW E B .C O M
94
Private security guards can legally carry arms. Some businessmen risk openly carrying firearms due to kidnap and ransom threats.
Some private civilians in the city
modern handgun or rifle cartridges
of Kabul actually carry handguns or
in use by the security forces of either
rifles for personal defense that are
country, they’re given a pass legally
technically illegal and can be confis-
and not really considered a threat for
cated if found by ANSF authorities.
locals to own.
However, this is a risk that some,
In an area of the city known as Kuli-
especially businessmen, are willing
Pushta, an old-world market of tightly
to undertake, because the security
packed shoppers, jostling sellers, and
forces often can’t be depended on
live chickens exists, centered around a
during an assassination attempt or
river that runs through the area. This is
kidnapping for ransom (one of the
where a significant number of commer-
more frequent crimes conducted by
cial shotgun shops are concentrated.
organized crime syndicates).
The overwhelming majority of 12and 16-gauge shotguns that exist in
LEGAL Similar to neighboring Pakistan,
these locales are Turkish imports. Names such as UTAS, Dreynayva, and
there’s a civilian firearms ownership
Asil are quite common, even to the
loophole. This lies with commercially
point where some of the models avail-
available shotguns and antiques.
able in Kabul are the exact same that
Because both categories don’t fire
are exported to the United States.
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RUNNING GUNS IN KABUL
Pump-actions rule the day, with
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3 8
various hunting configurations avail-
REC O ILW E B .C O M
96
Above: Crazy-ass high-tech Turkish shotgun
able in long-barrels and classic pistolgrip stocks, but the tactical market has infected the Afghan markets just as much as it has the gun show circuit in the United States. Shotguns outfitted with pathetic excuses for lights, lasers, bipods, and scopes coming out of China can be found in every shop. Some even have magazine capacities similar to commercial Saigas and
Right: Hot garbage craft-produced shotgun
Veprs in the United States. ing them with the government. Less
where a local gun-making community
ally in the sub-$500 range for most
effective than a 7.62x39mm Kalash-
began over 100 years ago, mostly due
pieces. For example, a semi-automat-
nikov, the shotguns can nonethe-
to British colonial efforts to enforce
ic detachable magazine-fed shotgun
less be useful for deterring thieves
gun control within the region. In
may go for around $300, while a
or lightly armed criminals. Against
the West, they’re known as “Khyber
pump-action, tubular magazine-fed
a formidable adversary, such as an
Pass guns” due to the trade coming
shotgun can be had for about $200.
organized criminal element or the
through along a valley that connects
Craft-produced, break open shotguns
insurgency themselves, these shot-
travelers from Peshawar to Kabul. Lo-
from neighboring Pakistan can be as
guns don’t stand a chance at offering
cally, they’re known in Dari or Pashtu
low as $60, but they’re certainly the
sufficient firepower.
as “Darrai” guns, named after the
Across the board, prices are gener-
bottom of the barrel when it comes to quality. Although many civilians do pur-
town of Darra Adam Khel where many
INSIDE THE GRAY Possibly the largest category are
of them originate. Quality varies from very well made
chase shotguns for home defense
the handmade firearms that originate
to downright unsafe to fire due to
or recreation, security companies
out of the Federally Administered
loose tolerances and quality control.
and private businesses can also be
Tribal Areas (FATA) in northwest
Within the Afghan market, they aren’t
particularly fond of them purely for
Pakistan, along the border. Specifi-
prized as much as foreign firearms
the reason that they don’t need to
cally, many of these firearms are from
coming from outside the country, with
go through the process of register-
the Pakistani province of Peshawar,
prices reflecting this opinion.
RUNNING GUNS IN KABUL uses a gaggle of small arms that are also procured through the black market — augmented with arms captured or outright purchased from the Afghan security forces. This even includes surplus M16A4s recently supplied to the Afghan Uniformed Police force. The largest difference between what the insurgency buys and what the private security sector buys is that the insurgency has a much more offensive and militant-based operational requirement that includes items
3 8
such as RPGs and PKMs.
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Left top and bottom: While Soviet Makarovs would never be considered safe queens, the Darrai clones are far more ghetto.
REC O ILW E B .C O M
98
Right: American service weapons are available on the black market.
Take, for example, a Darrai Makarov
from the old Afghan Army’s collapse
copy that goes for around $300 to
when the Najibullah government fell in
$400 on the local market. This is
1992 made for a large black market.
relatively inexpensive compared to an
During the insurgency against the
original Soviet Makarov PM that goes
Soviets, the CIA and Saudi Arabia
for over $1,000. Anything else, such
pumped hundreds of thousands of fire-
as black market Beretta M9s or Walter
arms into the country through proxies
P5s, typically begins at this $1,000
in Pakistan. This armed the Mujahi-
benchmark and goes up from there.
deen with everything from surplus
Kalashnikovs are similarly priced,
Lee Enfield No.4s to Norinco Type
but the Darrai versions are much
56s Kalashnikov copies. Much of this
more than $400.
supply is still left over and currently being used on a daily basis within the
BLACK MARKET The massive amounts of surplus firearms left over from the Mujahideen era and, of course, everything left over
country, not only by private security forces but also the insurgency. The current Taliban and so-called Islamic State-Khorasan insurgency
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IS SUE
3 8
RUNNING GUNS IN KABUL
Legitimate antique guns (such as the Martini Henry on top) aren’t subject to regulation. However, it’s often hard to determine the actual lineage, due to bootlegs pictured below.
REC O ILW E B .C O M
100
in between these two indigenously
members and contractors send these
manufactured firearms are various
antiques back to their respective
foreign rifles and handguns that were
countries through the mail.
either commercially brought into
firearms in Afghanistan made prior
Afghan forces, or actually left behind
to 1898. So how do the sellers on
and captured during the Anglo-Afghan
Chicken Street cope with this de-
Wars of the 1800s and early 1900s.
mand? Similar to the handmade “Dar-
We encountered Austrian 1867
rari” firearms that replicate modern
Werndl-Holub single-shot rifles,
small arms designs and are popular
Martini Henrys configured for sport-
throughout the market, older designs
ing use, and even a semi-automatic
are also copied, stamped with appro-
Winchester 1907. Although Lee En-
priate dates, and peddled to tourists
fields were quite prevalent among the
as antiques — when in fact they were
Mujahideen of the 1980s, we didn’t
quite possibly made the same year as
see any for sale in Kabul itself.
they were bought in the 2000s.
One reason is that ammunition
ANTIQUE
But there were a finite number of
the country, used as military aid to
To the untrained eye, the differ-
is still readily available and can be
ences aren’t noticeable from an
perceived as a modern firearm by
original. With some knowledge of
the government. But more impor-
the local mistakes and history of the
often peddled to tourists or Afghans
tantly, the tourist market, consisting
designs being copied, the differ-
looking for decorations.
of American or European custom-
ences become readily apparent. On
There’s a market sector that’s most
These guns range from the tradi-
ers, have import restrictions when
Martinis a common mistake is that
tional Afghan flintlock rifles that were
it comes to the year a firearm was
the stamped “N” is backward in
prevalent in the 19th century to the
produced. In the United States, guns
the word Enfield. In addition, some
single-shot breech-loading Martini
produced in or before 1898 aren’t
of the marks and manufacturing
Henrys that were actually produced
technically considered a firearm any-
techniques are just unlike anything
in Kabul under Amir Abdur Rah-
more and aren’t subject to firearms
usually found coming out of a large-
man Khan during the 1890s. Mixed
importation regulations. Many ISAF
scale arms producing facility.
RUNNING GUNS IN KABUL This is actual-
Along with original rifles and copies
Adding to this issue is the
for sale, there are also completely
ly a real predica-
fact that there aren’t any open
honest fakes of the traditional Afghan
ment within the
shooting ranges to go in the city,
“Jezails.” These are usually non-firing
Afghan firearms
apart from driving out into rural
examples simply made for folks to hang
community,
areas or celebratory fire during
up on living room walls. But whether an
both for private
cricket matches.
original, fake, or decorative piece, the
security and ci-
current antique market is dwindling.
vilians. Because
Tied directly to the security situation,
ammunition is so
The lack of security and instabil-
currently there are less contractors, less
difficult to come
ity that currently exists throughout
NGO workers, less businessmen, and
by, actual practi-
the country lends itself to both the
more importantly less ISAF personnel on large bases who might potentially purchase these old rifles.
Real 9x18 on right, totally out of spec Darrai 9x18 on left.
LOOSE ROUNDS
cal application and training with
civilian and black market arms trade,
firearms is relatively non-existent.
despite the strict Afghan govern-
This has led to many misconcep-
ment regulations that are in place.
tions about small arms operation,
Although not a “flourishing” black
and serious safety concerns. The
market, small arms are very acces-
four cardinal rules of firearms safety
sible by those in the country with
ammunition for self-loading rifles
are basically non-existent as well.
the capital, connections, and cun-
and handguns is in short supply
On multiple occasions just walk-
ning to skirt any of the government
in Afghanistan. A 50-round box of
ing around the city ,this author has
laws. The antique market is left
Chinese 9x18mm Makarov along with
had firearms pointed directly at him
alone for the most part, mostly due
two spare magazines actually costs
inadvertently, simply because the
to the lack of any real threat to
as much as the firearm itself: $300
users don’t realize the importance of
Afghan security forces from the arms
on the black market.
muzzle awareness.
being sold.
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REC O ILW E B .C O M
106
BY TOM MARSHALL
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The AK market is beginning to feel the
rifle so prolific that demand for it has
effects of a phenomenon that’s all but
slowed significantly.
business as usual for AR shoppers. With
For all its benefits, the Kalashnikov
FIRST IMPRESSIONS The first thing we think anybody would notice about the SLR Hybrid is
the repeated waves of panic buys, and
platform lacks a degree of modularity
that it has a very distinct aesthetic,
our legislative branch firmly controlled
that’s trademark of America’s black
even for an AK. The handguard is a
by a party that’s supposedly looking out
rifle. Modifications to the AK sometimes
wide, round number with all kinds of
for our Second Amendment rights, many
require additional effort and TLC. The
slots and holes. This free-float tube
people have already purchased the rifles
resulting artisan industry of AK builders
includes a series of holes drilled
they need or want. In response, manu-
has produced some intensely refined
throughout to attach Picatinny rail
facturers have been striving to come up
versions of Russia’s chief export.
sections at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock.
with new and unique variations of a base
D&L Sports is a small gunsmith shop
According to the included literature,
with an extensive history of quality
these rail pieces are produced by D&L
work, primarily on 1911 pistols. But
and hand-honed individually.
they recently added a house-blend AK
While the quality of machining and
rifle to their lineup. Using an Arsenal
the artisan approach are commendable,
base gun, they refer to it as the SLR
this setup left us scratching our head.
Hybrid. Our sample package included
There’s a solid selection of high-quality
a very thorough instruction manual, the
AK fore-ends currently available in the
rifle, and two magazines.
aftermarket. Furthermore, the concept IS SUE 3 8
107 REC O ILW E B .C O M
3 8 IS SUE REC O ILW E B .C O M
108
of screwing in individual sections of
our test gun. Particularly unique about
much effort and should look familiar
Picatinny rail to mount accessories all
this sight mount is the built-in folding
to anybody who’s ever run an FAL. The
but died out many moons ago. If you’re
rear sight. It’s a nonadjustable pistol-style
magazine well is large enough to drive a
installing a proprietary handguard,
notch, complemented by a front sight
truck through and flared like the bottom
why not one that’s KeyMod or M-LOK
that also folds down. Both front and rear
of the Liberty Bell. If you like magwells,
compatible — this would decrease weight,
components are equipped with bright
this one should definitely get your mojo
reduce bulk, and allow direct attachment
tritium inserts. It’s ample sight to cover
going. If not, you’ve been warned.
of a wide variety of accessories.
you in the down-and-dirty if your red dot
Moving south of the handguard, there are a number of modifications to the
What truly made us bite our lip about
should fail, and we like the design. Below the sights, the charging handle
receiver itself. The traditional rear sight
has been moved to the left side of
is gone, replaced with a short Picatinny
the receiver. The handle itself is large
base that carried an Aimpoint Micro on
enough to gain positive control without
the magazine well are the myriad holes The sheer weight of this rifle and the custom D&L muzzle brake make for a noticeably flat-shooting rifle.
drilled into it. It gives the piece a distinctly cheese-grater appearance that’s pervasive throughout the entire build. The AR-style stock tube and bolt carrier
TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING?
also sport the Swiss cheese fashion
The aforementioned stock tube has a
tube, it doesn’t function as such. You
style that, frankly, looks like a high
storage compartment that, on our sam-
can’t plug in a standard AR buttstock to
school shop student ate all their Hallow-
ple gun, held a cleaning kit. The end of
replace the one with set screws.
een candy and then let loose with a drill
the tube has a screw-in cap that’s easy
press. We’re not sure what the intent
enough to open and close. However,
on this gun is the one you’re stuck with.
was behind drilling so many holes,
accessing it isn’t as quick as it sounds.
Said unit is also capable of storing
particularly into parts inside the action
The stock is held in place by two hex
an additional magazine latched into
that come face-to-face with all the crud
head set screws that must be complete-
the buttstock itself. Ours is currently
that x39 ammo is known for. Our initial
ly backed down before the stock can
holding a 10-round AK PMAG, although
thought was weight reduction. But, even
slide in or out to set length of pull. Both
others do latch in. And the stock tube
with all the ventilation, this particular
screws must then be tightened all the
doesn’t fold. On the bright side, if you
Kalashnikov variant tips the scales at
way down once the length is set. While
don’t feel like jacking with set screws
9.3 pounds unloaded.
the tube looks like an AR-style stock
just to reach the internal storage
It would seem the stock that comes
TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING? compartment, you can always stuff your
However, the modifications made to
small sundries into the Magpul grip that
this rifle did lead to some interesting
has a small pocket inside.
quirks with the manual of arms. As
Lest we be accused of judging a
previously mentioned, this model is set
book by its perforated cover, it seemed
up with a left-side-only charging handle.
to be only fair that we bring this
To achieve this effect, it appears that
thought-provoking piece of work out for
the original right-side handle was
field testing.
ground down, leaving a small nub on
Once screwed into place, the stock doesn’t budge or rattle. But adjust on the fly, it does not.
the bolt carrier.
ROUNDS DOWNRANGE We put several hundred rounds through the SLR Hybrid, using an
unable to charge the weapon. But this
eclectic array of ammunition, rang-
nub is sized and shaped perfectly to
ing from Tiger Imports to Silver Bear
kick the safety lever down into the fire
“Match” to Federal, Hornady, and Red
position when you run the bolt. The
Army Standard. The rifle ran exactly as
safety on our D&L AK remains func-
an AK should — so consistently as to
tional in the sense that it still prevents
be boring. The trigger appears to be of
the weapon from firing. But it no longer
ALG provenance, tripping our pull gauge
keeps the bolt from cycling.
IS SUE
3 8
at just under 3.5 pounds. It’s certainly
REC O ILW E B .C O M
110
An AK’s selector lever is designed so that, in the up (safe) position, you’re
The folding BUIS on this gun are pushbutton activated with positive lockup in both positions.
This “feature” might prove a boon to
lighter than we’re accustomed to for AKs,
those who would keep this rifle stored
but it’s a refreshing change and enables
in condition 3 — maybe under the
more precise engagements — at least,
bed or in the trunk. In that case you
as precise as you can get for an AK. Out
could leave a full mag inserted with
to the 50- to 60-yard marker, this rifle
the selector on safe. When needed,
held groups noticeably tighter and more
running the bolt would both chamber a
consistent than other AKs we’ve shot.
round and kick the selector down into
The stock tube gives you a fairly large amount of space to stow maintenance or other supplies on board the weapon.
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TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING?
IS SUE
3 8
fire. We’re not 100-percent convinced
REC O ILW E B .C O M
112
Some of the information provided
This mag well may be one of the most forgiving we’ve seen for rapid reloads.
of the day, consumable components.
this was an intentional design feature,
by D&L reads as follows: “There is
as there’s nothing about it listed in the
no guarantee that random battlefield
company literature included with our
pickup mags are going to work in all
to the need for periodic replacement.
test gun. But, like it or not, it’s there.
guns. I recommend shooters get the
Furthermore, these modifications take
Like brake pads on a vehicle, their importance doesn’t make them immune
The other significant difference in
mags they may need when they order a
one of the most prolific battle rifle
functionality has to do with the maga-
carbine, then they can all be tested for
designs in modern history, for which
zines. Our test gun came with two: a
fit and function, and the carbine’s serial
there is a well-established dimensional
30-round Circle 10 and a 10-round
number put on the bottom of the mag.
standard, and “converts” it to run on
PMAG stored on board the stock. In
Then use a drop pouch and don’t abuse
magazines that need to be fitted for
addition to these two, we used several
a critical part of the reliability chain.
function. To seek clarification on the
other 30-round PMAGs — both the
Magazine fit is critical to reliability.
issue, we spoke with Gary Hughes
standard Gen 3 and MOE varieties.
Polymer and overmolded mags often
of MOD Outfitters. His take on AKs
While the included magazines locked
require extra fitting, and it is a toss up
and magazines went like this: “...we
into the weapon easily, our personal
with steel mags too.”
mags required significant manual as-
While we agree quality magazines
sistance to seat properly. Specifically,
are an important factor in the overall
we had to brace the stock of the rifle
reliability of any weapon, this verbiage
against our chest and pull the magazine
is at hard odds with conventional
back with both hands in order to get it
wisdom. Magazines are, at the end
to latch into place. After some careful side-by-side comparison, we realized that the two mags included with the gun were both dimpled on the left feed lip. These dimples correspond to a small hump on the bottom of the ejector, allowing the included mags to fit smoothly. The unmodified mags from our personal stock only fit when aggressively muscled in. After this, we tried a whole slew of different AK mags. Russian slab-side, Russian Bakelite, Hungarian tanker mags, Bosnian FDL, Chinese steel mags, and AK-103 mags all fit. Unmodded PMAGs and Circle 10s didn’t.
The included polymer mags required some factory fitment to work properly. Steel mags we borrowed from friends locked in without issue.
fit the gun to work with a variety of mags, Romanian, Polish, Russian, etc. Always fit the gun to those mags. With American made or poly mags you do the opposite. With those mags, you fit the mag to the gun. By and large an AK
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TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING? should not require custom-fitted mags of any sort.” Upon examination of the ejector, the humped design appears similar to those found on the AK-74, which may also contribute to the need for magazine fitment ...
THE SMOKING GUN The amount of effort put into this rifle is clear, and we applaud D&L for the high level of craftsmanship. But, arguably it seems that much of the effort could have been better applied. The amount of time spent on lightening holes alone could’ve been all but eliminated through different parts selection. Considering that the weapon weighs over 9 pounds after removing all that metal, it’s as if they were fighting 3 8
their own design choices. But we admit IS SUE
freely that this is only our particular experience with the rifle. Your mileage may vary, and if the aesthetic appeals to you, then it may be just what you’re looking for.
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REC O ILW E B .C O M
114
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PETRONOV ARMAMENT’S NEW RECEIVERS MAY BE THE CLOSEST YOU CAN GET TO A “REAL” AK WITHOUT A PASSPORT BY TOM MARSHALL
IS SUE
3 8
PHOTOS COURTESY OF PETRONOV ARMAMENT
REC O ILW E B .C O M
116 Anthony Petrone,
military. SEI has extensive experience with mill-
the owner of Petronov,
ing and casting receivers of all different types.
has a close personal
Petronov and Smith tested a variety of steel
friend who spent
types before settling on 8620 ordnance-grade
nearly 25 years living
steel for the Russian-spec AK receivers — the
in Moscow. This indi-
same steel used to make M1 Garand receivers.
vidual moved to Russia
These receivers will be case hardened in the
to teach English but
same manner as their Garand counterparts.
What constitutes a “real” AK rifle? With vari-
wound up developing a number of military and
Petronov claims the resulting receivers will be
ants available the world over from Asia to
commercial contacts. Through these contacts,
as strong as a piece of solid bar stock. Petronov
Africa and back again, the permutations of
he was able to send genuine Russian technical
has gone to a foundry that specializes in aero-
patterns, measurements, and tolerances are
drawings of AK parts back to Petronov.
space and military parts to produce the machine
about as diverse as you can get. But a small
The drawings cover both AK-47 and AK-74
fixtures, molds, and straightening fixtures as
shop in Phoenix, Arizona, is getting back to the
rifles with various individual sheets dating from
well as several prototype receivers. Anthony says
basics. Petronov Armament is in the process
1949 to 1982. This friend translated parts
they’ll have their initial batch of receivers avail-
of gearing up production for a line of AKs that
of these blueprints into English. To finish the
able in July, just in time for you to see this article
may silence many an internet purist.
translation of the engineering dimensions of the
and get in touch with Petronov. Projected July
drawings, they went to a local tool and machine
releases include under-fold and side-fold receivers
Petronov headquarters, discussing another
designer who was able to read the more obscure
in Russian, Hungarian, Polish, and M92 patterns.
project, when we spied a set of blueprints on
technical markings. With that last piece of the
Full rifles are expected in 2019.
a desk that appeared to be written entirely
puzzle in place, Petronov’s genuine Russian AK
in Cyrillic. While we weren’t able to get any
project was off and running.
Several years ago, we were sitting at
more information at the time, the story behind
Petronov teamed up with Ron Smith of
those prints — and the products they’re giving
Smith Enterprises Incorporated, best known for
birth to — are finally seeing the light of day.
their work with the M14/M1A platform for the
For more information, contact Petronov Armament at Email: petronovarmament@cox.net Phone: (630) 780-4037 URL: www.petronovarmament.com
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REC O ILW E B .C O M
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119
THE PAST AND FUTURE OF RUSSIAN FIREARMS
REC O ILW E B .C O M
STORY AND PHOTOS BY JAMES RUPLEY WITH COMMENTARY FROM LARRY VICKERS AND IAN MCCOLLUM
The Soviet Union was responsible for
Maxim Popenker greeted us when we
original plaque included a sculpture of an
the most iconic and ubiquitous rifle
arrived in Moscow. A native of St. Petersburg
exploded view of the German MKb42(H), a
in the world, introducing the Avtomat
(“Peter” to the locals), Maxim created the
predecessor of the legendary Sturmgewehr
Kalashnikova in the late 1940s. While the
well-known World Guns website (world.guns.
assault rifle. Ostensibly, it had been
Soviet Union is no more, in Russia, the
ru), now operating as ModernFirearms.net.
intended by the uninformed sculptor to be
Kalashnikov Concern carries on the legacy
Before Wikipedia became such a thorough,
an illustration of an AK-47, yet the mistake
of its namesake.
albeit error-prone, repository for firearms
highlighted longstanding debate about
Earlier this year, Larry Vickers and I
information, World Guns was often the first
the Sturmgewehr’s influence on the AK’s
traveled to Russia to finish photography
destination for Internet searches on guns —
development. The erroneous portion was at
for our newest book release in the Vickers
frankly it still should be.
the edge of the plaque and was subsequently
Guide series. Our goal was to see not only
Maxim showed us around Moscow, first
current small arms offerings in Russia but
taking us to the new monument to Mikhail
original. In fact, the worker doing these
also to document historic Kalashnikov-type
Kalashnikov, the father of the AK-47, in the
“repairs” was initially arrested by local police
rifles dating back to just after the Second
center of Moscow. Unveiled in September
for defacing a public monument!
World War. This juxtaposition of old and
2017, the monument features a larger-than-
new would be a theme throughout our
life statue to the storied designer and a metal
the city of Izhevsk. Situated on the Izh River,
entire time in Russia.
plaque depicting some of his creations. The
Izhevsk has been a significant metalworks
cut off, leaving some visible traces of the
Just two hours by plane east of Moscow is
FROM RUSSIA WITH LAV The AK-15 was modernized to improve accuracy and options for mounting optics. Note the combined front sight/gas block and tensioned top cover design with an integral rail.
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An AK-47 “trials gun,” one of the oldest Kalashnikovs in the world. From the initial military trials in 1947 and 1948, it features a combination muzzle brake and front sight.
REC O ILW E B .C O M
120
town since the 1700s. During the Napoleonic era, Izhevsk became an armory city, manufacturing firearms for Russian Imperial troops. Its location fairly deep inside Russian territory has been key to its continued importance as an arms producer for the military, particularly during the Second World War as German troops advanced across the Soviet frontier. For fans of Russian and Soviet small
VICKERS GUIDE Both the Hungarian AMD-65 and Russian AK-203 shown on pages 126 and 128, along with many other historically significant AK variants, are featured in Vickers Guide: Kalashnikov (Volume 1). Authored by Larry Vickers, James Rupley, Ian McCollum, and Rob Stott, the first in this new series focuses on the 7.62x39mm variants of the AK family of rifles, not just
arms, Izhevsk is notable as the home
from the Soviet Union, but across the globe. The collectible 11x13-inch coffee table book will
of one of the three most widely known
be available in a Standard Edition ($95), Signature Edition ($125), and Limited Edition
arsenals in Russia — Izhevsk Machine
Premium Version ($200) signed with a personal message, limited to 250 copies.
Engineering Plant, Factory #74, more commonly known as “IZHMASH.” Along with Tula and Molot, the other two members of this trifecta, IZHMASH was a major producer of Kalashnikov rifle variants — notably the original AK-47 rifle and subsequent AK, AKM, AK-74, AK-100 series, and more. Mikhail Kalashnikov lived and worked here once the AK-47 was to be prepared for serial production. We photographed some of the oldest Kalashnikovs in existence — AK-47 rifles from the initial military trials in 1947 and 1948. These “trials guns” can be identified by their
www.VickersGuide.com
FROM RUSSIA WITH LAV prototype combination muzzle brake/
3 8 IS SUE REC O ILW E B .C O M
Kalashnikov Concern’s corporate offices in the 18th century Vsevolozhsky Manor in Moscow.
Kalashnikov Concern by our government in July 2014.
front sight assembly — discarded
and 7.62x39mm, respectively) mod-
before large-scale production began
ernized Kalashnikov-type rifles went
in 1949. Technically, only the original
through the “Ratnik” trials held by
experimental rifles that won army
the Russian Army in 2013, as part of
and for how long, but one couldn’t
trials in 1947 and the approximately
a diverse modernization program for
help but think that Kalashnikov
1,500 rifles produced in Izhevsk
soldiers. They’ve been redesigned to
Concern represents the future of
in 1948 for military field trials are
improve accuracy and optics mounting
firearms development. It’s not just
properly designated “AK-47” rifles.
options, with a nonremovable gas tube
the modern-day successor to Mikhail
What Americans typically refer to as
and a removable gas plug for main-
Kalashnikov’s lineage; during our stay,
the “Type 1, 2, or 3 AK-47” is simply
tenance, combination front sight/gas
it felt much like the Apple Inc. of the
designated “Avtomat Kalashnikova” (or
block (similar to the AK-104), newly de-
firearms world. Its headquarters are
“AK”) in official Soviet documents.
signed pistol grip with internal storage,
located in the beautifully renovated
and a new tensioned top cover design
Vsevolozhsky Manor, an 18th century
a city, completely encompassing
with integral rail for optics. Arising out
building in an upscale neighborhood
numerous blocks with rows of factories
of the AK-12 is the new RPK-16, in-
of Moscow. Interestingly, it’s one of
— some old, some quite modern. It
tended as a RPK-74 replacement. Other
the few wooden structures in Moscow
operates today under new ownership
interesting products are the SVCh (pos-
that survived the Fire of 1812 during
and under the “Kalashnikov Concern”
sible successor to the SVD), SR-1 rifle
Napoleon’s occupation. And just
brand. Kalashnikov Concern initiated
in 5.56x45mm with counterbalanced
next door is the corporate campus
a multiyear modernization program
recoil system, AM-17 compact rifle
of Yandex, Russia’s Google. The
to improve profitability, streamline
with polymer lower in 5.45x39mm, and
Kalashnikov Concern offices
production, and upgrade product
the compact AMB-17 suppressed rifle
are clean and modern with
offerings. While they continue to
with the subsonic 9x39mm cartridge
contemporary facilities.
produce some of the legacy IZHMASH
(.300BLK’s Russian cousin). Unfor-
Employees are outgoing,
products, they’ve launched numerous
tunately, none are available stateside
charismatic, and warm,
exciting new ones.
due to existing sanctions imposed on
with everyone from
IZHMASH is essentially a city within
122
The AK-12 and AK-15 (5.45x39mm
Many factors determine what makes any given company successful
FROM RUSSIA WITH LAV management to factory workers treating us with great friendliness, kindness, and interest. They know firearms, and they know marketing. In fact, they have a department
Larry Vickers and Maxim Popenker at the Mikhail Kalashnikov monument in Moscow
called “technical marketing,” distinct from traditional marketing. These folks bridge the needs of end users, engineers, and traditional marketers. They’re largely “Alpha” veterans, counterterrorism specialists akin to Delta in the United States, with all the knowledge and skill that you’d expect. Russia should be an obligatory stop on any firearm enthusiast’s pilgrimage list. There are numerous hurdles to overcome, not least the complexities of travel visas and language issues. But the museums are excellent, and you can’t help but come back with a
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more complete appreciation for the Kalashnikov after walking through Red Square and traveling to an armory city or two outside of Moscow.
124 REC O ILW E B .C O M
Photo by: Valery Moroz
At IZHMASH in Izhevsk, in front of a sign commemorating Mikhail Kalashnikov.
FROM RUSSIA WITH LAV
HUNGARIAN AMD-65 Commentary by Ian McCollum
Hungary was part of the Warsaw Pact until 1991,
While the piston and gas tube were trimmed
and in a world full of similar-looking AK variants,
along with the barrel, the AMD-65 uses a standard
the Hungarian AMD-65 definitely stands out. It not
AKM bolt carrier, gas block, and front sight tower.
only features the distinctively Hungarian-shaped
This simplified production, avoiding the need for a
pistol grip, it has two of them, plus a unique side-
new combined gas block/sight tower (seen on other
folding stock, sheetmetal front handguard, short
short AKs) and minimizing changes to the operating
barrel, and massive muzzle brake.
system. It has the vertical front grip often used on
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other Hungarian AKs, the exact same part as the rear
difficulty carrying and using the full-length
pistol grip, rotated 180 degrees and bolted to the
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The AMD-65 stems from mechanized troops’ AKM-63. Vehicle crews, airborne troops, helicopter
handguard. With no shielding around the gas tube
crews, and infantry in armored personnel carriers
and a perforated sheetmetal lower handguard, the
found the length of the standard rifle inconvenient.
foregrip is essential — the whole assembly becomes
Designed by Károly Zala, the first prototypes were
quite hot when putting rounds downrange.
REC O ILW E B .C O M
126
made in 1965, with serial production starting in
Although some design choices may have degraded
1967. The AMD-65 featured a 12.6-inch barrel and
the shooting experience, the AMD-65 was perhaps
an austere side-folding stock. A large muzzle brake
the first truly compact AK model, predating AKSU-
helped with recoil generated by the lightened rifle,
type weapons by many years. For its intended end
though its blast and concussion are substantial. A
users, its compactness was more important to daily
shortened 20-round magazine was also provided.
duty than actual shooting, and the AMD-65 was
Special versions with optics rails were produced,
very successful. It would go on to become the most
and some Hungarian units used it with the Soviet
prolific Hungarian AK variant. It’s widely issued with
PBS-1 suppressor.
the Afghan National Army, and large numbers hit civilian markets in Europe and the United States, where their awkward look with a 16-inch barrel made them unpopular compared to other surplus AKs.
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Commentary by Larry Vickers
REC O ILW E B .C O M
128
The AK-200 series was developed as an interim
the AK-203’s handguard is traditional length. The pistol
solution between the classic AK-100 series and the new
grip is a new design, providing better ergonomics and
AK-12 and AK-15. The AK-203 is essentially an updated
storage inside. The birdcage-style muzzle device shown
AK-103, itself a 7.62x39mm rifle incorporating several
here is new, yet very similar to a device that Arsenal
AK-74 features such as its iconic — and very effective
of Bulgaria and others have been offering for several
— muzzle device and 90-degree gas block. The AK-203
years. That said, a number of different muzzle devices
features a traditional AK-style rear sight configuration
are currently seen on Kalashnikov Concern products. All
with an AKS-74U “Krink” style pivoting top cover. This
these upgrades may not be revolutionary, but they nev-
design was specifically incorporated for customers
ertheless enhance the usefulness of the AKM platform
wanting to retain a conventional AK iron-sight picture.
for the average end user with no obvious downsides.
At the rear of the top cover is an SVD-inspired pivoting lever. Rotating it counterclockwise allows the top cover to pivot up for access to the receiver internals. Upon reassembly, it also performs a camming function to lock the top cover into a repeatable and secure position, retaining zero for optics. Examining the latest AK offerings and their various prototypes from Kalashnikov Concern, it’s clear that they’ve experimented and spent considerable time and resources developing a pivoting top cover system that achieves the highest degree of optic zero repeatability possible. A side-folding multi-position collapsible buttstock is employed — no surprise as this has become the norm on new assault rifles worldwide. It also has an enhanced safety/selector lever, a much needed and welcomed upgrade for serious AK end-users. Picatinnytype rail surfaces are in all the usual positions, but one concept that has largely failed to gain traction outside of the U.S. is an extended handguard interface. As such,
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130
THE PLUMB PSL: MODERNIZED COM-BLOC STORY BY FRANK PLUMB PHOTOS BY DAVE MERRILL
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131 REC O ILW E B .C O M
As culture and history moved forward,
there’s a lot we need to actually learn.
the unofficial movie of the Afghan
My exposure to Russians revealed
National Army, Rambo III, had
a very robust and ultra-pragmatic peo-
Green Beret John Rambo and the
ple, balanced by an almost nihilistic
Mujahedeen fighting Russians. Mov-
disregard for danger. Remember the
Russia. The word can stir emotions
ing farther forward, the Russians
video of Russian troops shooting each
in every American. Russians are the
morphed into masters of espionage
other in body armor with live rounds?
guys who are on the other side of the
or ruthless lords of the underworld.
Like that.
line. For us Cold War kids, images of
James Bond and John Wick movies
The Day After and Red Dawn instantly
cement these notions.
Yet, Russians are people whose feet are on the ground with a real sense of what the bottom line really is.
come to mind. When I “shot down”
We all know reality is far differ-
a helicopter at the Joint Readiness
ent than what Hollywood and college
Take, for example, Putin’s masterful
Training Center, it felt like Robert the
faculties present. Ignoring the current
manipulation of President Obama
Wolverine taking on Russian Hinds.
sycophantic Russian hyperventilation,
regarding Syria and the Crimea.
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CobetCka
REC O ILW E B .C O M
132
The culture of these people is best
Russians? The Russians used a pencil.
the ubiquitous AK-47. As a design,
represented by what products they
While this is just a fun anecdote (the
it’s so robust and practical that it has
actually make.
reality is the Fisher Pen Company sold
inspired many other weapon systems.
their pens to both nations), the broad
The Israeli Galil, RPK, VZ-58, and
strokes ring true.
many more all owe their existence to
We’ve all heard the myth: Early in the space race, NASA developed a rather expensive zero-gravity pen for use inside an orbiting vehicle. The
Precision gun, fighting gun — this one does both.
Nowhere is the sense of Russian rugged practicality better typified than
the venerable AK-47. (All at once a million Stg 44 fans just groaned.)
CobetCka
to hoCt
One AK-47 based weapon that has presented a problem is the SVD sniper rifle. It uses the far-reaching and hard-hitting 7.62x54R cartridge. The SVD and its variants have long been a lethal concern for our warriors. There have been a small but very vocal group of us within USSOCOM who have long pushed for overmatch to 7.62x54R. With the adoption of 6.5 Creedmoor, we finally have an answer to the SVD. As the global situation continues to degrade, looking long and hard at how Russians fight or might fight is back in fashion. USSOCOM had a recent solicitation for “non-standard” weapons. To prepare a proof of concept for such a rifle, Handl Defense considered two courses of action: Finish and submit the 7.62x54R
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conversion kit for the FN SCAR or …
REC O ILW E B .C O M
134
Modernize an SVD variant This rifle represents the latter option. It started its life as a PSL. Yes, there are some large differences in design between the PSL and SVD, but for the most part they serve the same roles. When I started on this project, I was focused on two things: coarse modernization and the theater of operations — get optimized for urban snap shots, area denial from concealment, and capability for houseto-house fighting.
TOOLING UP To transition the platform from a Semi-Automatic Sniper System into an accurized battle rifle, it was important to only require simple tools and easyto-source parts. It had to be possible with tools that are in every auto repair shop in the Middle East.
MAGAZINES One of the first limitations of the current SVD/PSL design is the magazine. Five- and 10-round magazines are available for PSLs. Fitting within the battle rifle configuration, a new 20-round magazine was formed.
The shortened barrel and folding stock make for a package that’s far easier to stow and transport.
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CobetCka Left: The modified SCAR handguard allows you to add or remove rails for accessories at will.
to hoCt
MAKING SPACE There’s a severe lack of rail space on the PSL. Looking around the market place, we found essentially no options for this platform. So, we made our own. A Handl Defense alloy handguard assembly for the SCAR series of rifles was modified to interface with the PSL. This handguard is robust with an open architecture. Like the SCAR, the PSL runs hot under sustained use, so starting with a SCAR handguard was an ideal solution for this platform. Ample rail space allows for the fitment of lights and lasers. However, due to the larger gas tube on the PSL, the 12 o’clock 1913 rail had to be relocated elsewhere. Keeping an eye on overall budget, a Fab Defense
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foregrip was cut down and provides a IS SUE
solid hand stop. The PSL comes with a nonadjustable wood stock. It might have been cheaper to simply modify the wooden
136
stock to customize the length of pull
REC O ILW E B .C O M
and provide better eye relief to the scope, but swapping in a fully adjustable component is more functional Below: Cutout for a manual BHO on the safety selector. Bear in mind these magazines are in their first generation, and there’s no bolt hold open feature. While Alan Handl developed a solution that might be incorporated in future designs, for now, the selector switch has a cutout for manually locking the bolt to the rear. The locking and feed lip portion of a PSL magazine was welded onto the lower portion of a Lahti LS-26 magazine. The follower itself was robbed from a PSL magazine, and reinforcing plates were added to the side because it needs to be strong. And, of course, some grinding and polishing ensures reliability.
and versatile. This FAB Defense stock assembly is intended for an SVD. Installation requires modification to
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CobetCka The offset openglobe sights allow for rapid engagement while remaining targetfocused.
to hoCt
the lower receiver itself to allow for
concern, and importantly the primary
on the target while engaging. Rather
proper placement of the pistol grip.
optic and backup sighting systems are
than focussing on the front sight, you
The result is more adjustability, and it
effectively useless inside a room.
used a “stress sight picture.”
folds. Hot damn.
Now for little conundrum. Do you
The 45-degree offset sights
go with the space pen? Do you spend
featured on this PSL were inspired
money on a proper variable-powered
by that meeting. They’re like an open
The standard PSL comes with a
optic, a newly engineered mounting
globe sight, capitalizing on the natural
side mounted fixed four-power scope,
system, and a backup red dot sight?
ability of the eye and brain to easily
wholly inadequate for the rifle’s
Those components would probably
align concentric circles. They’re a
intended use. In most urban fights,
cost more than the rifle itself.
simple, cost effective, and easy-to-
SIGHTS
there are close engagements indoors.
That would most likely be out of
use backup sighting system. The backup sights are mounted
The standard PSL or SVD is mostly
reach for people who would build
inadequate in that environment.
and field this rifle. So I stayed in the
on a custom-built gas tube cover,
The length of the PSL indoors is a
spirit of the build — more pencil than
allowing for attachment of laser-
space pen. The primary optic is a 3-9
aiming devices, red dots, or similar.
variable-powered Dragunov scope with
The cover’s well ventilated to allow for
an illuminated reticle.
better cooling of the weapon under
This left the backup sighting system
sustained rates of fire.
unresolved. Knowing end users were less likely to procure a red dot system, I tried a new and different approach.
BARREL Several factors played into the
Years ago, Tyler Grey showed me
modification of the barrel assembly.
a Glock pistol with a modified set
First, the standard PSL long-barrel
of sights. They featured an open
assembly isn’t effective indoors.
channel, which allowed you to focus
However, reducing barrel length
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Though heavy like everything else Commie, the Plumb PSL’s better ergonomics made it easier to shoot. The brake did work to reduce recoil allowing for quicker shots.
REC O ILW E B .C O M
140
compromises bullet velocity. Additionally, the barrel thickness and profile for the PSL are quite thin. Given the scope and spirit of the project, what could be done at a car repair shop in Raqqa? Some of the accurizing solutions came more from the 1950s knowledge base than the current era.
The accuracy of this example was mildly better than the original PSL with heavier ammo. The major limitation here is the quality of the glass, which is of typical Chernobyl awfulness.
encouraging, with less than 100 fps
on how improved accuracy is achieved
lost on velocity while accuracy
will be highly scrutinized before public
was improved, with a specific
release. While Handl Defense is
7.62x54R cartridge.
currently considering building custom
We don’t have any data on the supposed improvements to 7.62x54R
will likely only be done on a case-by-
the Russians are conducting. With
case basis. With many friends still
U.S.-sourced ammunition, the Plumb
active within USSOCOM, I take this
PSL is very effective.
concern very seriously. Simply put, this rifle is a monster
A good muzzle brake provides better control of the front of the rifle. The AK fighter brake made by Definitive Arms fit the bill.
Plumb PSLs for commercial use, this
LOOSE ROUNDS
— a brutally effective modernization
Further testing on longer distance
of a seemingly forgotten platform.
capability is forthcoming with custom
While not modernized to American
loads. I’m very concerned about the
standards, most of this build can
Given global security concerns, I
possibility of U.S. service members
be accomplished with simple tools
can’t publicly delve into exactly what
and our allies in harm’s way facing
found in the regions we find ourselves
we did. The results, however, were
this type of platform. So any specifics
fighting in today.
We also reduced the barrel length.
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should is a well-thought-out carry med kit. They’re typically not flashy, expensive, or an inherent source of bragging rights. Medical gear is, in our opinion, one of the things that separates those who are carrying to be prepared and those who are carrying to start conversation. But the particular sundries required to tend the wounded — and the knowledge required to use them properly — are
When browsing “EDC” or “pocket
an oft-misunderstood subculture even
dump” on our favorite forum or social
among armed professionals.
media channel of choice, we see a lot
On the battlefield, the days of tak-
of cool gear. Pistols, holsters, knives,
ing a knee and yelling “medic!” are
watches, challenge coins, flashlights,
well past. Likewise for law enforce-
and sunglasses all run aplenty on
ment, stringing up yellow tape while
these look-at-me photo threads. Even
waiting for an ambulance is the pro-
combs, travel razors, beard oil, and
cedure of a bygone era. The advent
“tactical wallets” all wind up getting
of domestic terrorism and the intense
meticulously laid out among the sup-
media publicity showered upon active
posed daily carry of internet enthusi-
shooters has, for better or worse,
asts everywhere.
made casualty response a job that
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BEYOND BULLETS medical preparedness (training and
carry a weapon are probably the plac-
around the problem, we spoke to
gear) an important part of exercis-
es where I would need the medical kit
two instructors who have made great
ing their right to carry? What about
should, God forbid, something tragic
efforts to spread their wealth of
people who don’t carry a weapon?
unfolds. There should always be room
knowledge about trauma medicine
Should they consider medical training
in your EDC for medical gear, even if it
to uniformed personnel and citizens
and gear as well?
is something as small as a tourniquet
In order to better wrap our heads
and a pair of gloves. Obtaining solid
alike. Kerry Davis of Dark Angel Medical spent 16 years in the Air
Kerry Davis: Medical preparedness
medical training doesn’t take a lot of
Force, including service as both an
(training and gear) is absolutely an
time and can make the difference,
ER medic and flight medic. Addition-
essential component of “EDC.” If
literally, between life and death.
ally, he has 10-plus years in civilian
you are exercising your right to carry
emergency rooms, working as a para-
a firearm for self-defense, then you
Glen Stilson: Everyone should be
medic while completing his studies
should also be trained in, and car-
carrying medical equipment and have
to become an RN. Glen Stilson works
rying, medical gear for the same
the skills necessary to use those
for Independence Training, which
reason. Carrying a firearm without
tools. You are much more likely to
offers both firearms and emergency
carrying medical gear should not even
need to help yourself or someone
medical training to the communi-
be an option, because the chances of
else in a medical emergency than
ties around Phoenix, Arizona. He
using your medical gear far outweigh
you are to shoot a bad guy in the
began seeking further development
the chances of using your firearm.
face, and if the average firearm
of his own medical skills in 2006
With hemorrhage being one of the
owner spent as much time, money,
after becoming a father. He has been
leading causes of death in the U.S.,
and effort on their medical skills and
teaching “Dirt Medicine” and TCCC-
being able to stop the bleed is one
tools as they do on their guns and
style classes since 2009. The staff
of the most important things we can
shooting, we would be an amazingly
at Independence Training includes
learn. We always tell people in our
prepared community! The best part
both current and former paramedics
classes that even if you don’t carry a
of carrying medical gear everyday is
and flight medics, as well as several
weapon, you can carry a medical kit
that you can take it anywhere with
former members of Army Special
and still be a “force multiplier.” Also,
you — into “gun free zones,” onto
you can’t carry a weapon everywhere,
airplanes, into government buildings,
but I’ve yet to be anywhere I can’t
etc. Plus, there are some everyday
carry a medical kit. And, statistically
useful items in a good med kit, such
speaking, those places where I can’t
as tape, light, and shears.
Operations units. RECOIL: Why should people who choose to carry concealed consider
With a wide variety of medical kits and components available, make sure to have quality kit and the skill to use it.
BF4 R
Distinctive and Deadly
www.extremaratio.com
BEYOND BULLETS What medical gear do you consider
ter/mother) carry an EDC med kit? If
the absolute bare minimum require-
so, how do they carry it?
ments for daily carry? Why?
IS SUE
3 8
KD: Where to carry the gear is a very
REC O ILW E B .C O M
146
KD: As stated above, the very bare
common question and one that we
minimum equipment I would carry
believe we have the answer to through
would be a tourniquet and pair of
offering several versions of low-profile/
nitrile gloves. If I could add to that, I
low-visibility trauma kits. Carrying
would add a small pressure bandage
“enough” medical gear is basically
and a hemostatic agent (QuikClot
up to the end-user, and it depends on
Combat Gauze or ChitoGauze) and a
what their mission requirements are.
pair of compact chest seals. The dif-
We have an ankle kit, three very small
ference in wounding patterns in civilian
pocket kits, a flat kit that will fit easily
mass casualty/active shooter situations
into purses, soft armor, cargo pants,
is different from military scenarios in
and we have a small belt-mounted kit.
that the wounding patterns in civilian
For those who want additional, off-
settings are typically thoracic and cra-
body carry, we offer a backpack with a
nial injuries. Those areas are typically
pocket specifically made for a full-size
protected with military personnel; thus,
D.A.R.K. (Direct Action Response Kit)
their injuries tend to be mainly dealing
insert and a tourniquet. My daughters
with the exposed extremities. However,
carry Pocket D.A.R.K. Mini kits and
our main emphasis remains on stop-
Combat Application Tourniquets (CAT)
ping the hemorrhage first and extrem-
in their purses and school backpacks.
ity injuries do still occur in the civilian populace, so our treatment algorithm
GS: I carry all of my medical gear in an
remains unchanged.
ankle kit, every day of my life. I chose the AFAK from Ryker Nylon Gear due
GS: I would say that there are five trau-
to its ability to carry all 10 of the items
ma kit essentials: tourniquet, bandage,
that I mentioned before in a comfort-
gauze, tape, and occlusive seal. These
able way that is also fully concealed.
items allow me to handle the most
The kit itself is also very adaptable to
serious life-threatening wounds that
be used around a backpack shoulder
may happen to me (yes, my kit is for
strap, range bag handle, dog collar,
me — if I can help other people then
seatbelt, tossed in a bag, etc. I fly ev-
so be it), such as massive bleeding
erywhere with my kit and go into gov-
or a compromised chest cavity. They
ernment buildings and other restricted
also allow me to handle less serious
areas without any issues at all.
(and more common) injuries, such as
My wife and kids carry the same
a nasty cut, a broken bone, or a strain/
supplies but vacuum-sealed in a bag
sprain. If possible, I would add another
that is the same length as an M4 mag
five items: shears (5.5-inch are TSA
and the same width as two M4 mags
approved), nitrile gloves, emergency
put together. This allows the kit to be
blanket, hemostatic gauze, and a light
small enough to put in a purse or a
source. These additional items help me
backpack, which is how they mostly
handle the aforementioned wounds and
carry it. I find that a kit put together
reduce the risk of shock, which is a se-
in that manner or setup in an AFAK
rious threat in any medical emergency.
from Ryker Nylon Gear are the two most common ways our students
How do you carry/conceal all that
end up carrying a kit once they have
gear on your person? Do any of the
trained with us. Just remember, skills
women in your life (wife/sister/daugh-
trump tools and tools enhance skills.
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BEYOND BULLETS For those without current knowledge on how to treat traumatic injuries, what’s the best way to seek out a training class? Short of actual training, are there books or websites you can recommend as reliable sources of information as a primer? KD: Generally, using any search engine for the internet will bring up quite a few classes nowadays. This wasn’t true several years ago, but I will add a word of caution that there are a lot of “me too” type classes. Ensure that you vet the instructors and course of instruction for these classes. Just like with quality firearms training, quality medical training will not be cheap. Our classes are nationally recognized in that each student receives BCON (Bleeding Con-
IS SUE
3 8
trol) certification and EMTs or paramed-
REC O ILW E B .C O M
148
ics receive continuing education hours toward their refresher training. There are a lot of good books and videos out there that can be utilized as a primer or reference, like the
ber to always check the validity of
LEFR-TECC (Law Enforcement and
what you are learning. For example,
First Responder-Tactical Emergency
learning from someone who comes
Casualty Care) site, the Stop the
from a clinical background may not
Bleed (bleedingcontrol.org) site and
be as applicable to you if you spend
several others. As far as the proper
most of your time away from clini-
use of the components of the kits,
cal settings. Learning from a combat
one can always source videos from
medic who left the military 10 years
the actual manufacturers of the prod-
ago and hasn’t stayed current on new
ucts on YouTube. As always, a video
techniques and concepts will still be
or a book are not a replacement for
useful, but not as useful as learning
a class with “hands-on” training. A
from someone who is more current on
great starting point is to contact your
their information and can apply it to
local hospital or Red Cross or Ameri-
your everyday life.
can Heart Association and see when
Medical training is like firearms
and where the next AED/CPR/first-aid
training — résumés and “been there
class will be held. Short of going to a
done that” is nice; however, current
local community college and enrolling
and modern experience is much more
in the EMT course, these are some of
helpful, as is actual teaching abil-
the easier things to seek out.
ity. There are lots of free classes out there, specifically the Stop The Bleed
GS: Anything beyond a basic first
classes, which are often taught at no
aid/CPR class is going to be help-
cost through hospitals and commu-
ful! There are a lot of great places to
nity colleges. There’s also lots of info
get training these days; just remem-
available online via social media and
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BEYOND BULLETS
YouTube, but again, be aware of who
sleep is key to being able to perform
you are learning from and where they
them under duress. Learn how your
draw their experience or material from.
body will react to duress and how
Independence Training, whom I
your practice can help mitigate the
work for, has several medical instruc-
negative effects of the body alarm re-
tors who come from different back-
sponse. LTC Dave Grossman’s books,
grounds, giving us a broad spectrum
On Killing and On Combat, are really
of information and experience to
good resources on how the body will
draw from; some of our team are still
respond, both physiologically and
working in the medical field. We also
psychologically, to stress.
have several consultants working in
Taking care of yourself after a criti-
the medical and tactical fields and
cal incident is paramount, as well.
providing us constant feedback, as
Consult a counselor as soon as pos-
well. This helps us to make sure we
sible, hopefully less than 72 hours af-
are on the razor’s edge of the most
ter an incident has occurred. Talking
valid, most current, and most effec-
with someone will help in the healing
tive techniques and equipment.
process. Talk with pre-hospital health
IS SUE
3 8
professionals about how you can
REC O ILW E B .C O M
150
Besides carrying a medical kit and
properly interact with them should
obtaining the knowledge to use it
you be the first to render aid to a
properly, is there anything else you
trauma victim and then transfer care
recommend to help people prepare
to EMS. Most importantly, get solid
for responding to a mass-casualty
medical training, carry top-notch kit,
event, should they find themselves in
and be prepared to use it.
that situation?
In any traumatic event, the best thing to you can do is focus on the
KD: One of the best things to do,
types of injuries you know you can
after obtaining the proper training and
help and not the ones you cannot.
equipping yourself, is to practice and
The goal is to render fast, effective
become, as we call it, “subconsciously
aid to as many people as quickly as
skilled.” This is probably one of the
possible in order to increase overall
most important aspects of being able
survivability. Keep your eyes open
to react in a positive manner during
and your head on a swivel in order
a mass casualty incident. The other
to increase not only the survival rate
important aspect is having the proper
of your casualties, but yourself also.
mindset. Practicing with one hand, or
Having solid situational awareness
the non-dominant hand, in a sensory
can be an invaluable tool in increas-
deprived environment always helps.
ing your survival rate and, in this day
Think of applying a tourniquet to your
and age of technology, it seems to
right leg with your left hand in the dark,
be one in which many are lacking. In
with gloves on — and the gloves are
the end, our goal in teaching people
slathered in hand lotion and on a timer.
how to help themselves and others is
Performing these tasks over and
all about empowerment; being a “by-
over until you are doing them in your
doer” and not a bystander.
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BEYOND BULLETS GS: Awareness is not a verb, so
your friends/family/kids/coworkers to
a comprehensive primer on medical
merely being aware of a problem isn’t
react in an emergency?
equipment or training, we hope that
enough. We like to teach our students
Talk with your local fire and police personnel about what you can ex-
to seek professional education on the
of these things is not like the other;
pect from them when they come on
topic. If you’ve already taken that step,
one of these things just doesn’t be-
scene. Write everything down once
we hope this affirms your confidence in
long.” Look for people or things that
the violence has ended and you have
that decision. Even for those with prior
don’t belong and then act accordingly.
rendered the best possible medical aid
professional experience or recent class-
Leaving the area may be your best
to yourself and everyone else — what
room training, do your best to keep
option; alerting authorities may be
you saw and heard, what you did, what
current through whatever means are
possible, or perhaps intervening in a
aid you rendered and to whom. This
available to you. Near continuous feed-
physical and/or violent manner may
kind of information can be very useful
back from both the battlefield and the
be necessary. Start preparing and
to professional responders once they
urban jungle mean that best practices
practicing now on what to do if you
are on scene. Overall, remember that
are constantly being revised or altered.
find yourself and those you care about
when seconds count, help is just mo-
While sinking hard-earned coin into a
in harm’s way: how will you communi-
ments away — it’s up to you to save
med kit may not be as flashy as cutting
cate? How will you move? What tools
you, so prepare and train accordingly.
windows in your slide or getting a fluted
do you and those who may be with you have available? What tools can you
IS SUE
3 8
make/improvise? How can you expect
REC O ILW E B .C O M
152
some of you will heed this as a call
the old Sesame Street game of “one
titanium nitride barrel, it’s much more
CONCLUSION While this article is by no means
likely to save your life if you ever do need that sweet-ass blaster.
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ROBERT YOUNG PELTON’S MADE ADVENTURE HIS LIFE’S WORK
BY ROB CURTIS
There’s no simple way to portray Robert
Geographic shows, or saw his reporting for
Young Pelton’s career and his contributions
VICE, you’ll be surprised to learn he was
to the world. He’s most famous for his book
hired by Steve Jobs to help with the launch
IS SUE
and television series, The World’s Most
of the LISA and Mac computers. Maybe you
3 8
Dangerous Places. But before, during, and
have one of his DPx Gear knives and didn’t
since its distribution, the guy’s been, done,
realize he was one of the guys behind the
and seen more than any fictional character
success of both Upper Deck and TOPS
we can think of.
trading card companies. Or, that he worked
play in traffic and taunt ruffian gangsters
with Microsoft on early versions of what would become Expedia’s travel services. Pelton’s friends are as interesting as his
by the waterfront while frustrating the nuns
enemies. He’s met and lived with warlords,
at his elementary school, ultimately getting
and he somewhat famously crossed paths
kicked out of school in the second grade.
with Erik Prince, the former owner of PMC
He ended up at St. Johns boy school
company Blackwater. The two continue to
in Ontario, an institution that would later
spar in court over interests that range from
become infamous for its methods of shap-
Pelton’s foreign news service and intelli-
ing hard-case boys when a dozen students
gence venture in Somalia to the authorship
died on a wilderness canoeing trip.
of Prince’s biography.
Contrast this to the man before you —
But, it’s his ceaseless wanderlust and
world traveller, author, photographer, artist,
willingness to share the trappings of his
knife designer, businessman, oilfield worker,
extensive travels in some of the world’s
marketing consultant, publisher, and creator
most fractious locales that regularly attract
of regional intelligence networks. One of his
our attention.
early enterprises, Pelton & Associates, was 145th on the 1992 Inc. 500 list. Depending on how, and if, you were
His recent work saw him setting up news reporting agencies in intelligence- starved locations. These services ended up helping
introduced to Pelton and his work, you’ll be
researchers and think tanks hungry for
surprised to find out all the other lives he’s
news and information that might help them
lived. If you read one of his stories in RE-
understand the plight of people trapped
COIL or watched his Discovery or National
in violence and turmoil, but also helped
REC O ILW E B .C O M
Born to a broken home in the slums of Edmonton, Ontario, Canada, he used to
155
A LIFE OF WANDER & WONDER RYP: Yeah. The way it works, you have a spoke and hub setup. We have people in these villages, the police chief, kid who makes red, a plumber, whatever. We’d say, ‘Hey, what’s up. What happened last night?’ They’d report back, We’d have an editor fact-check it, call the other guy, see if the explosion happened in this house or that house ... We worked with some of the NGOs, and we published on the internet. Sounds complex. Was it fun? What did you learn? RYP: I learned not to ever work with the U.S. government or even appear to work for the U.S. government. It’ll
IS SUE
3 8
burn your ass.
REC O ILW E B .C O M
156
Above left: Instead of college, Pelton spent time living in a car and working in the north. Here, he’s working as faller in the Yukon in the mid ’70s. Good money if you like mosquitoes and the sun never going down.
Above right: Age 13 with his brother Mark. The pair were dragged to countless air shows with their father, who was an aerobatic pilot.
operating in Afghanistan. It would
actors in these areas.
cover everything from the price of rice
The Agency didn’t like us and the
to somebody getting robbed. It was
ground commanders, like in RC East,
ering network in Somalia, Somalia
like having a hometown newspaper in
saw us as s--t stirrers. When Bowe
Report, that became a source of news
every town.
Bergdahl went missing, I was able to
In 2010, Pelton set up a newsgath-
find out where he was within 30 or
for anyone interested in the piracy plaguing the seas around the Horn of
So you used your media and newsgath-
40 minutes, and they put assets right
Africa. His open-source approach in-
ering chops to set up what amounts
above [him]. They’re able to record
oculated the reports against misinfor-
to an open-source, subscription-based
conversations from cell phones or
mation and propaganda. He syndicat-
network that reported on things that
whatever, and that’s the only time we
ed the format and deployed services
happened to appeal to the military and
worked with Task Force. But we had
to provide raw material for intelligence
intelligence communities?
extraordinary ground capability.
reports to U. S. forces in Afghanistan through a venture called AfPax. RECOIL: How many times have you been to Afghanistan? Robert Young Pelton: Dozens? My passports are all full. I go there a lot. I used to work there with the four stars. What did you do for the four stars? RYP: Originally we pitched them on the idea of setting up a very in-depth,
Right: 2001 with the first Army Special Forces team on the ground (ODA 595). Pelton went to get into the war before 9/11 and knew that Dostum was fighting in the mountains from horseback.
No, it was really messy because
fill intelligence gaps for nation state
very high-velocity sort of ground truth network. That means we would have reporting from 1,200 people in the tribal areas all over Afghanistan. And, this massive flow of situation awareness would be read by everybody. It would be like USA Today or New York Times
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A LIFE OF WANDER & WONDER You want us to wave off? Because we
too expensive. So the AK-47 has been
know exactly where he is.’ ‘Well, RC
commoditized in Afghanistan, but the
East says they own him, so they got
74 hasn’t made any inroads.
to go find him.’ But, RC East doesn’t
Businessman will have guards. They
operate Pakistan. He was in Miran
have an AK-47 if they don’t have a
Shah ... exactly the same building
lot of money … they’ll get a Pakistani
that they held David Rohde in. It was
made one, which would blow up in
the same f*cking people.
your face. Certain ones are better, you know,
So you found Bowe Bergdahl? RYP: He went missing at night. The next morning we get a call, ‘Can you come down and. ..?’ ‘OK, but you’re the guys we’re not supposed to work 3 8 IS SUE REC O ILW E B .C O M
like the Bulgarian ones are the most
RYP: Every war in Afghanistan is like,
favorite, the Chinese ones are the
whatever war they lost, they dump
least favorite, etc. So when I was in
all their sh*t there. So in the Panshir
the tribal areas, I’d go to people’s
Valley, you see guys bird hunting with
homes, which are built like forts, and
Flintlocks. They’d say Birmingham
I would say, ‘Hey, got any guns?’ And
or BSA on them. Then, there were
they would drag them all out. No two
warehouses of old World War II Soviet
guns were the same. They had Stinger
stuff — you know, the machine guns
missiles. They had old English guns.
with the round tops, like old, old sh*t.
They had old German guns still with
The AK was a fairly new introduc-
the wrapping paper on them. And
tion, because the CIA in the ’80s really
they had old World War I, you know,
didn’t want them to have good weap-
the Italian ones … just an amazing
onry, but I go out bird hunting with
collection of guns that have been
base and we don’t know where he is.’
Afghans who’re using AK-47s. They
shipped in for the Mujahideen during
I said, ‘OK, tell me what you know.’
won’t shoot a 74 because the ammo’s
the ’80s, right?
with.’ And they said, ‘Well, we’ve got
158
In 2003 with General Dostum. Pelton says Dostum was vilified by the U.S. State Department to keep Karzai in power, but ultimately he has always been the person who decides who runs Afghanistan.
What rifles did you see in Afghanistan?
kind of an unusual problem. We have this knucklehead who disappeared off
They told us where he last was, kind of what he looked like — he’s an American. I then called my friends who knew that area, and I asked when the last time somebody was kidnapped there, and who did it? They said it was the f--khead tribe, or whatever they’re called. So, I asked about the last guy who was kidnapped. How did they take him to Pakistan? They said ‘they used this route, and they wait at the border for the Haqqanis to come out, because you can’t drive Afghan cars in Pakistan and vice versa. So they wait at the border, and it usually takes a while. I said, ‘OK, great.’ So, I figured he left at this time ... So, this route here. They start flying [electronic surveillance] here, they picked up a phone call saying, ‘we need a translator, and a cameraman.’ The whole thing is in Wikileaks actually — read it — and we did that for about three or four days, and then we were told to wave off. I’m like, ‘That’s weird.
Pelton with Ahmad Shah Massoud‘s Panjshiri fighters in Taloqan in 1999.
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A LIFE OF WANDER & WONDER What’s your view on firearms? RYP: The Second Amendment is
with the Taliban, and this guy Rob
part of the Constitution, because the
Krott literally disassembles the guy’s
way the English treated the Ameri-
rifle on the front line. I’m like, ‘Ooo,
cans meant governments couldn’t be
not a good idea.’ The Talib guy was
trusted. The government should be
like, ‘What the f*ck. You just took my
equalized by the people’s ability to
rifle and turn it into parts.’ Right? And
stand up to it. I like that idea. When
he did this thing [gestures with hands]
you’re oppressed by government, you
‘This is the RPK, the first da, da, da,
should be able to defend yourself.
da ...’ He was a weapons guy.
Now the issue of the Black Gun I
The PKM means the agency was there. It’s very popular with certain militias, typically agency-related, because the PKM is a hard gun to handle.
3 8 IS SUE
a warlord, and we decided to have a
do more damage with a propane tank
shooting contest; he had a Glock. So
and a 5-gallon gas container than you
his bodyguard throws a Pepsi can up
can do with a black gun any day.
in the air, and the warlord would aim and miss, and his bodyguard goes
When did you start learning about
over and executes the Pepsi can.
weapons? Traveling in dangerous places, what
tary, and when I started getting into
practical things do you need to know
this I thought I need to know about
about weapons?
guns, because nothing’s worse than
RYP: So what you need to know is
hilltops and fire rockets and artillery.
being around guns all the time and
basically the range of weapons, the
So when I was first there, they would
not knowing about them. So I would
type of fire you’re receiving, and
literally take Katyusha rockets, knock
actually bring guys with me, like
the general magazine capacity. You
the end off them, lay a fuse to it, put
Soldier of Fortune writers, and they
need to know the difference between
two rocks around it [and light it]. It
would actually explain how the weap-
[the guns on your side] and the
was like the Roadrunner, right? And
ons work, and they do these weird
enemy sounds blasting the other
where it landed who the f--k knew?
little videos.
way, right?
RYP: Because in Afghanistan, you’re
REC O ILW E B .C O M
I remember I was in Turkey with
think is humorous, because I could
RYP: I’ve never been in the mili-
Why is Afghan marksmanship so bad?
160
Discovering the hard way that the Land Rover parking brake locks up the central diff not the rear brakes. Pelton later competed for Team USA in the 1991 Camel Trophy rally race.
One time, we were on the front lines
ambushing people. They used to sit on
2000. Pelton tried to take a vacation and hike the Darién Gap in Panama and was kidnapped by an AUC death squad and marched at gunpoint to Colombia.
confidence matters.
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A LIFE OF WANDER & WONDER When you’re under an AC-130 Gun-
So, money is an inefficient way of
ship you need to know how they func-
trying to win favor. Weaponry works
that was having a lot of green-on-
tion, because you’re just a little blob
when used surgically against the right
greens, and you know you’re not sup-
and if you get taken out it’s because
people with the locals helping you.
posed to do that, but, f*ck it, there’s
you were in the wrong zone. I was
Money creates corruption, standoff
rules and there are rules, right? So
right next to Kaliganj at night when
creates civilian casualties, but it’s
if somebody starts going crazy, take
they used to run the AC-130s. I don’t
still better than a whole bunch of
them out, you know? That was a sad
know how — they’re in the air — but
guys from Ohio going down street get-
state of affairs. .. When the people
you could actually hear the [aircrew]
ting shot by the Taliban and perhaps
you’re helping were trying to kill you.
yell, ‘Clear!’ when firing the main gun.
shooting at each other.
They had 40mm [cannons] with high explosives, so it’s good to know the range and the blast radius of the 40s and 105s. Have you seen the dollar as an effective weapon? RYP: You need both carrot and stick, right? Carrot has always been dumping money into a sh*thole and think-
IS SUE
3 8
ing that it was going to stay in the
REC O ILW E B .C O M
162
carry a gun I was with a certain group
sh*thole, and that obviously doesn’t work. It just goes to Dubai.
When Afghanistan needs to be
In East Turkey with the family of warlord Sedat Bucak, a disgraced Turkish politician with links to a 1981 plot to assassinate the Pope. They had a shooting contest with a Pepsi can. Bucak missed and his bodyguard walked over and executed the can.
On the Blackwater thing they wanted me to have a weapon. Because
pacified, it’s better to do exactly what
if you get attacked in Iraq, they’re
we did, which was provide overwhelm-
gonna f*cking kill you, and they don’t
ing air support, stand-up expertise,
care if you’re a journalist, a Black-
use consultants, just like they fought
water guy, whatever. I said, look, ‘I’ll
wars in India in 1800, right? And
carry the ammo. I’ll be the bullet
then when we’re done. We’re done
bitch ... and yes, put a weapon in the
and we move out, and we accept the
vehicle. But I got to work.’
fact that it’s a contentious violent poor country.
What were you doing with Blackwater? RYP: I wrote a book called License
Do you carry a firearm when working?
to Kill. A lot of my friends in Special
RYP: The only time I was asked to
Forces had gone to work as contrac-
A LIFE OF WANDER & WONDER view, and I asked him why he’s talking
whatever. So, I said, ‘What’s the most
to me. He says, ‘Because you’re you,’
dangerous job you have?’
meaning that he read my book.
He said it’s this run up Route Irish [between Baghdad International Air-
So he’s a fan?
port and the green Zone] because we
RYP: Yeah. Well, not anymore. So, um,
get these slow-moving Mambas and
I’ve actually been in combat [laughs].
they take potshots at us all the time,
Anyway. So the point is, he told me
and there’s VBIEDs [vehicle-borne
his dream of this private army. And
improvised explosive devices]. I said I
I’m like, ‘That’s a stupid idea,’ and
want to hang out there.
for a lot of reasons. If I was a villager
tors for Dyncorp, Blackwater, whatever. When I was out looking for bin Laden I ran into all these OGA guys who were contractors on the Border.
IS SUE
3 8
I thought that’s f*cking weird, and
REC O ILW E B .C O M
164
I didn’t know anything about it. I’d already been with mercenary groups in Sierra Leone and other places, so I thought, I’m gonna write a book about the future of warfare called License to Kill. License to kill means that you are literally allowed to kill people in certain areas, even though you’re not the military. I chose three companies and one of them was Blackwater. I called up Erik Prince, and I met him at the Ritz-Carlton. He’s never done an inter-
ROBERT YOUNG PELTON’S EVERYDAY CARRY
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1999 with Ahmad Shah Massoud. Pelton spent three years trying to meet up with Massoud. He was deported, arrested, and frustrated. This was part of his fascination for insurgencies, where groups are usually outgunned and often surrounded.
So I spent a month there, and I flew
guy, and I was being oppressed, the
with the little bird guys, and I went to
last thing I want to see is a f*cking
Greystone, the secret squirrel guys ...
gunship come out of the sky randomly
Then I said, ‘Hey, I want to come to
shooting at people, you know? But
the ranch.’ [Prince] said, ‘Sure,’ well,
In Sierra Leone with the tribal hunters/militia called the Kamajor, who were hired by the mercenary company Sandline.
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A LIFE OF WANDER & WONDER
‘why don’t you teach a class?’ So I taught
think of everybody I know who got killed
a class on how to be terrorists, and it’s
fighting in the military or whatever ... I
still talked about to this day. There was a
want to think that somehow they died for
camera guy there, and I gave him a gun
a reason. If a guy took a risk to show you
to shoot the ambassador before we drove
something or teach you something that
a truck bomb in ... It was like, ‘uh f*ck,
we just don’t forget that and do it again
you’re breaking the rules, Robert.’ I’m
and again.
like, ‘There you go. You’re getting it now.’ They still teach it, I think. It’s called Mir-
Should the west be scared of Islam?
ror Image. I was just a little too rowdy for
RYP: Nope — be afraid of explosives and
them, but that’s cool.
ballistics.
Edward Snowden, Patriot, traitor, or … ?
What are you working on now?
RYP: Overpaid contractor who warned us
RYP: I’m starting up a media platform,
we don’t have privacy.
designing DPx Gear knives, raising pup-
IS SUE
3 8
pies, finishing my Finding Kony book and
REC O ILW E B .C O M
166
Is there any place you’re scared of going?
doing a book on Special Forces that I
RYP: The only problem I have is irrele-
started in 2001. I’ll head out to Afghani-
vancy. How many young men and women
stan in a bit as well. Also still trying the
went to a war and got killed and nobody
change the world with my incredibly
knows why? Nobody cares. Whether
naive belief that people are inherently
they’re journalists or soldiers, and they
good. But only if you lock up or shoot all
had zero impact. Looking back now, I
the bad ones first.
ROBERT YOUNG PELTON BORN: 1955 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada CITIZENSHIP: U.S. FAMILY: Married, twin daughters EDUCATION: High school graduate JOB TITLE: None IF YOU HAD A TATTOO, WHAT’D IT BE: Prison tat of Jesus or Elvis. Nobody likes a cool tattoo; a bad tattoo usually has a much better story behind it. LAST READ BOOK: CIA: Manual for Psychological Operations In Guerrilla Warfare by Duane Ramsdell “Dewey” Clarridge SUGGESTED READS: Scouting on Two Continents, Frederick Russell Burnham and Deep Waters, James Raffan FAVORITE FILM: Mountains of the Moon WHAT DID YOUR FIFTH GRADE TEACHER SAY ABOUT YOU: I got kicked out of school in second grade, so I didn’t go to grade five. But my second grade teacher said, in tears, ‘I don’t know what to do about Robert.’ FAVORITE PLACE TO EAT: On a mountain as the sun comes up. FAVORITE FIREARM: Colt Python with an 8-inch barrel. I like highpowered handguns, because they make big holes. AR OR AK? ARs are too complex and the squirrel gun caliber doesn’t do it for me. FAVORITE VEHICLE: Series II Land Rover
WORKS The World’s Most Dangerous Places - Travel guide to the world’s most dangerous places. The Adventurist - an autobiography covering Pelton’s colorful childhood and travel experiences until 1999 Come Back Alive - An irreverent survival guide. Hunter, Hammer and Heaven, Three World’s Gone Mad - Journal from Jihad against Russia. Licensed to Kill - An exploration of private military contractors during the height of the Iraq war Learn more about Pelton and his work at www.comebackalive.com
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3 8
BY RYNE GIOVIANO
REC O ILW E B .C O M
168
Admit it, you want to be big and strong.
age, the result is getting stronger and
We all do. And with all of the hype
bigger. In other words, the muscle
around strength training supplements
adapts to the stressor.
and diets, it seems like it’d be the easi-
It’s important to vary this stressor,
est thing, right? Take this colorful drink
and the simplest way is through
or only eat protein, and you’re well on
progressive overload. This equates to in-
your way to becoming the next Arnold
crementally putting more weight on the
Schwarzenegger. If you’ve been train-
bar, increasing the amount of reps, or
ing for any appreciable length of time,
increasing the amount of sets over time.
you know that it’s much harder than it
Of course, a combination of these three
appears. Those quick fixes never work.
will also work.
So, with all of this misinformation on
Because this is a nutrition-centered
the Internet, where do you start? Let’s
article, let’s discuss what it has to
talk about nutrition and supplementa-
do with muscle growth and strength.
tion to start seeing some huge gains in
Muscles respond to calories. In addition
the gym.
to proper training, it takes an extra 3,000 calories (above and beyond your
HOW DOES A MUSCLE GROW? At the end of the day, a muscle will
normal daily requirement) to build one pound of muscle. Muscle tissue is con-
respond to demands. When we ask our
stantly being broken down and rebuilt
muscles to lift weights, their response
every 7 to 15 days. More activity alters
in the longer term is to get stronger.
this process. So when you hit the gym
And the opposite is also true — place
and start lifting weights, you’re breaking
no demands on them, and they’ll get
down muscle tissues. Without adequate
weaker and smaller. These demands
nutrition (and recovery in general),
we place on muscle tissue causes
you’re going to have a hard time getting
damage, and while repairing this dam-
bigger and stronger.
Rimma_Bondarenko/istockphoto.com
WARNING!
The exercises and content expressed in this column are for illustrative purposes only. Consult your physician before trying any physical activity or nutritional plan. RECOIL and its contributors are not responsible for any harm or injuries sustained while attempting these techniques.
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YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT HOW DOES A MUSCLE GET STRONGER?
lower repetitions, such as in training for
tein when you start lifting weights. The
strength, the neuromuscular aspect of
main reason is to increase the amount of
training becomes more important. In our
protein synthesis relative to the amount
cle’s cross-sectional size and strength.
case, however, we’re focusing on eating
of protein breakdown. We want our
Generally, the stronger a muscle gets, the
right for the muscle’s ability to get stron-
bodies to be making more proteins than
bigger it gets. When the muscle is put
ger and bigger.
breaking them down if we’re going to
There’s a correlation between a mus-
build more muscle. But you need to eat
through a strength-training workout, and
NUTRITIONAL BASICS FOR MUSCLE GROWTH AND STRENGTH
it recovers adequately, an adaptation is for it to get stronger. Now, there are definitely some differences between training for one versus the other, but know they’re
As discussed earlier, proper nutri-
calories from protein is the minimum, which would equate to about 1g per kilo-
tion is paramount if you’re going to
gram of bodyweight. From there, you can
is to build more muscle and vice versa.
be seeing progress in the gym. This is
increase that to about 1 gram per pound
non-negotiable and requires an under-
of bodyweight. There are so many differ-
growth and strength is that strength
standing of your caloric needs, including
ent choices when it comes to proteins,
also has a pretty substantial neurologi-
a breakdown of proteins, carbohydrates,
but a lot of that will depend on your
cal component. It’s not just about the
and fats.
personal preference. Meat is easily the most common, but if you’re a vegetarian
muscle, but also your brain and the conPROTEINS
nections between brain and muscle. One of the adaptations to strength training is increased neural drive to the muscle, 3 8
How much? Twelve to 15 percent of
correlated. So one way of getting stronger One of the differences between muscle
IS SUE
enough protein for this to happen.
meaning there’s greater activation of that muscle leading to more strength. Especially when lifting heavy weight with
When looking to add muscle strength and size, look no further than heavy movements involving multiple joints and muscle groups.
or vegan, there are other choices like
When we exercise, our body’s hor-
beans, legumes, or soy, as well as some
mones are affected, and how they affect
protein supplements discussed later. To
muscle growth and strength are heavily
make this measurement of protein easier,
dependent on our nutritional status. It’s
think about it as two to three palm-sized
likely you’ve heard you need more pro-
portions of protein per day for men, and one to two per day for women.
170 REC O ILW E B .C O M
CARBOHYDRATES Recently, carbohydrates have become the enemy of many diet programs, but don’t shy away from them quite yet, especially if you’re looking to get big and strong. Carbs are primarily a source of energy for the cells in your body. Not to mention, they cause a release of a hormone called insulin, which is the most anabolic (building tissues) hormone in the body. Insulin is responsible for taking nutrients like amino acids (protein building blocks) and carbs and putting them into muscle cells to allow growth. You can get carried away, though, as insulin also stores nutrients in fat cells too. So, too much in the carb department can lead to some fat gain as well. How much is too much? Well, that depends on numerous factors such as: how big you are, how much lean mass you have, how active you are, intake levels of protein and fat, genetics, and what foods you prefer to eat. Men should gorodenkoff/istockphoto.com
start with roughly two to three cupped-
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YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT handfuls of healthy carbs per meal, and women should start with one to two. You then would adjust from there. As for choices, there are many. So stick to healthy options like fruits, legumes, root vegetables, quinoa, brown rice, and whole grains to name a few. FATS Fat is a major fuel for low- to moderate-intensity exercise, and for most people, it’s the most readily available form of stored energy. The better you are at using, the more you’re able to spare stored carbs. This is a great thing for
UberImages/istockphoto.com
longer-duration activities that require a ton of energy use like a marathon. Because fat goes through a more complex process to break down, it’s not typically an immediate source of energy
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3 8
for the body, and, therefore, it’s not an
REC O ILW E B .C O M
172
energy source we’re concerned with for strength-based exercise. It’ll take a few hours for fat to enter the bloodstream. While fat takes a while to breakdown, it easily makes up for it in the much larger amount of energy it produces as compared to proteins or carbs. So how much fat should you have? For men, two thumb-sized portions per meal is a great start, while one thumb
When considering a protein powder,
per meal is good for women. You’ll be
you’ve several sources including whey,
ate best.
looking to get your healthy fats from nu-
rice, egg, pea, hemp, and soy. Which
Mix with fruit, avocado, and spinach
tritious sources like avocados, raw nuts
source is right for you? It’s tough to say,
for a very simple and very nutritious
and seeds, fatty fish, and healthy oils
and it really depends on your personal
breakfast.
like avocado, olive, or coconut.
preference, allergies, your stance on food, and several others. For most peo-
brands to determine which you toler-
CREATINE
TWO KEY SUPPLEMENTS FOR STRENGTH AND SIZE
ple, a milk-derived protein powder called
When you’re performing bouts of
whey is a great choice as it may improve
high-power outputs (lasting less than
PROTEIN POWDER
immunity, is very well-researched, and is
15 seconds) separated by 20 to 60 sec-
a great source of branched-chain amino
onds of rest, you’re predominantly using
great food that should make up a sub-
acids, which help with muscle growth
something called the ATP-PC system
stantial amount of your total caloric in-
and preservation.
of energy. An example could be a short
We all know about protein being a
sprint up a hill. This system replenishes
take, but there’s another option besides regular food: whey protein. Why use a
RECOMMENDATIONS:
the stores of adenosine triphosphate
25-50g per serving is a good place to
(ATP), which provides energy to working
Eating more protein in your diet with-
start depending on your needs.
cells. Since your muscles have a small
out the bulk of food
Check the nutrition labels and avoid ar-
amount of ATP for muscle contractions,
You don’t like meat or animal products.
tificial sweeteners, such as sucralose,
it needs to be replenished regularly
Convenience of transportation
acesulfame potassium, and aspartame.
and quickly. In order to use this ATP,
Ease of preparation
Experiment with different forms and
one phosphate is removed to create
protein powder? Here are a few reasons.
Carbs are very important for strength and size goals. Make sure to get the recommended amount. If you notice you’re gaining too much fat, start reducing carbs before anything else.
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YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT Drink plenty of fluids when taking
diphosphate (ADP) as there are only
creatine.
two phosphates now. We use a creatine
Don’t ingest during exercise.
supplement to give ADP an extra phos-
After an initial five-day loading phase
phate, making it ATP once again. And
of 10g per day, consume 3-5g of
the cycle continues.
creatine per day.
Creatine is an amino acid that
yoh4nn/istockphoto.com
energy, which will make it adenosine
REFERENCES Berardi, J., Andrews, R., St. Pierre, B., Scott-Dixon, K., Kollias, H., & DePutter, C. (2016). The Essentials of Sport and Exercise Nutrition. Precision Nutrition, Inc. Plowman, S. & Smith, D. (2017). Exercise Physiology for Health, Fitness, and Performance (5th ed.). Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer.
Drink creatine in a warm beverage,
naturally occurs in the body in the liver,
preferably combined with carbs
kidneys, and pancreas, but you can also
and protein to possibly increase the
get it from food. In supplement form,
muscles’ retention of it.
creatine is typically taken as creatine
Occasionally, cycle off creatine for
monohydrate because it’s more able to
three to four months.
pass through cell membranes, making
Don’t take this if you have a preexist-
it more usable. Typical improvements
ing kidney dysfunction or are at a high
as a result of creatine supplementa-
risk for kidney disease.
tion range from about 2 percent in increased muscle mass, about 11 percent in muscle strength, and roughly 8 percent in high-intensity exercise.
CONCLUSION Now that you’ve got the basics of nutrition and supplementation covered, it’s time to hit the gym and start seeing
Use the monohydrate form of creatine.
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RECOMMENDATIONS:
some serious progress. You have nothing to lose and quite a bit to gain. Both creatine and protein powder are inexpensive ways to get an extra edge in the gym. Just understand they’re supplements meant to complement a healthy diet. You’ll get more from nutritious food than you will from any supplement.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Ryne Gioviano is the owner of Achieve Personal Training & Lifestyle Design located in Aurora, Illinois. He holds a master’s degree in exercise physiology, a NSCA Certified Personal Trainer, and Precision Nutrition Certified Nutritional Coach. Ryne is also an avid firearms enthusiast. For more information, please visit www.AchievePersonal Training.com or find him on Instagram and Twitter at @rgioviano.
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