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Sustainment is always at the top of the list for the various commands that make up USSOCOM, and training is a key component of that. Training for joint operations are difficult to coordinate, difficult to manage and difficult to assess. Training Directors have a difficult job; moreover, without the use of a software tool, they may not even gain near real time visibility of how a unit performed or what prevented them from performing.
VATC, a Florida Corporation, headquartered in Tampa has done some amazing work in the field of Joint Force Readiness. While at SOFIC, I had the opportunity to meet Tony Perez, VATC’s Director of EPIC and received a guided tour of what has to be the best thought out, comprehensive and robust training system in that space. Today, VATC employees are critical to the successful execution of USSOCOM Joint National Training Capability exercises (USASOC JADE HELM, MARSOC RAVEN, NSWC TRIDENT, and AFSOC EMERALD WARRIOR) and to providing Realistic Military Training coordination across the continental United States.
EPIC, or more correctly EPIC Ready™, is a cloud-based or appliance-delivered platform that was created to improve realism in training, and to distribute exercise performance analytics in both dashboards and map-based presentations. Using a combination of geospatial representation and analytics, replication of realistic human dynamics, and performance-driven metrics, EPIC delivers comprehensive analysis and quantifiable and actionable results available for sharing “Jointly” among defense, intelligence, partner nations and non-governmental organizations. EPIC Ready™ is comprised of three tools combining to generate the most realistic open and distributed enterprise platform ever created. System elements include:
Common Database Builder — The Common Database (CDB) Builder provides enhanced Command and Control and Commanders’ Readiness Assessment with geospatial visualization with selectable layers of information in the common operational picture displayed in the Joint Operations Center. The CDB standard is designed as an open, run-time capable simulation database data-store specification that supports multiple simulation systems, such as visual out-the-window, forward looking infrared, radar, and computer generated forces within a single simulator or across a family of simulators. It is a layered tiled approach to storing a worldwide synthetic environment. Initially developed to support the United States Special Operations Command, CDB is being adopted globally. Currently, the U.S. Joint Staff J7 is using CDB for the Cloud-Based Terrain Generation Service.
Digital Media Replicator — The Digital Media Replicator (DMR) fills a critical special operations training and exercise gap by simulating a holistic information environment. DMR presents training audiences with publicly available information (PAI) very similar to what they will encounter during a deployment. PAI data sources, from news media to social media, reflect population dynamics to inform intelligence and operations and enhance training and exercise effects. DMR fosters a complex information environment to challenge units against key training tasks. It feeds training audiences scenario data for analysis while also reflecting the second- and third-order effects of their operations.
DMR incorporates PAI data sources like news sites, blogs, and social media (e.g., Twitter) into a single web-based interface. These information sources are holistic and mutually supporting. For example, a simulated Twitter account may repost a simulated news story or a news media source may reference a Twitter account.
Planning and Analysis System —The Planning and Analysis System (PAS) supports and deepens the Commander’s combat readiness assessment. PAS fills a critical training and exercise gap by providing exercise planners and leadership at all levels the unit performance data required to ensure force readiness and increase the return on investment in training resources. PAS is a web-deployed, relational database management system that captures and correlates exercise and performance data with a focus on user-defined training objectives throughout the Joint Exercise Life Cycle. PAS’ ability to manage and visualize this information is essential to analyzing training effectiveness for the broadest range of stakeholders. PAS objectively measures the tasks, conditions, and standards assigned to the Joint Mission Essential Tasks (JMETs) associated with a unit’s combat readiness – from a GCC operational battle staff to a tactical unit. From a joint exercise program perspective, PAS provides an objective measurement of JMETs relevant to the overall joint exercise objectives (and specific training objectives) based on the GCC’s theater campaign plan or other Commander guidance.
I’ve seen quite a few training simulators but none were as comprehensive as the EPIC platform. The system supports resource allocation, costing, geospatial customization, financial tracking, analytics and command reporting near real-time. Since EPIC is a cloud based tool, there is no software to maintain or software licenses to manage, access is on a subscription basis. VATC also has consultants deployed around the world to assist the client in setting up and optimizing the EPIC READY Platform to meet a client’s specific needs. Eighty percent of VATC consultants are former SOF, and intimately familiar with the platform and joint training exercises.
Agencies desiring more detailed information or desiring to arrange a demonstration of this impressive platform, can contact Joseph A Perez SOCM (SEAL), Director of EPIC at tperez@vatcinc.com
VIRB 360® is a compact, waterproof¹, easy-to-use camera that captures fully spherical 360-degree video in up to 5.7K resolution at 30fps. It is the first 360 camera to offer 4K spherical stabilization² with 1 click.

Features:
Harrisburg, Pa. (May 2017) – IWI US, Inc., a subsidiary of Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) Ltd., is pleased to announce that the Galil ACE® Pistol in 5.56 with Side Folding Stabilizing Brace has begun shipping to wholesalers everywhere.
The Galil ACE pistol features a side-folding stabilizing brace in 5.56 NATO (8.3″ barrel). The brace was designed to help disabled shooters operate and fire an AR pistol and can be used in several different ways, including attached to the forearm using the provided strap, cheeked, and thanks to a recent clarification letter from the ATF, shouldered. The stabilizing brace allows the shooter to more easily control and stabilize the Galil ACE pistol. It can be fired with or without the brace extended.
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To view the Galil ACE pistol with stabilizing brace in action, click the play button.
“We were as relieved as anyone to hear that the ATF had come to the inevitable conclusion that the legality of a firearm isn’t changed by the way somebody holds it. Now that the Galil ACE pistol can be used to the full extent of its capabilities, I’m certain gun owners everywhere will be glad to know it’s now shipping to wholesalers everywhere in 5.56,” said Michael Kassnar, VP of sales and marketing for IWI US.
Improvements made since the original Galil was first developed include the charging handle (reciprocating) moved to the left side of the milled steel receiver, allowing for weak hand operation. Additional advancements include weight reduction with the use of modern polymers, a full-length two-piece Picatinny top rail and fully adjustable iron sights with Tritium front post and 2-Dot Tritium rear aperture. There is also a Picatinny tri-rail forearm with built-in, slide on/off rail covers with pressure switch access.
The GAP556SB is not available for sale in California or Massachusetts. Magazine capacity restrictions may apply in other states.
To learn more about the Galil ACE pistol with stabilizing brace, visit http://www.iwi.us/Galil/ACE-Pistol-GAP556SB.aspx.
ANOKA, Minnesota – May 24, 2017 – Federal Premium Ammunition is proud to announce its new Gold Medal Berger, which combines the most sought-after bullets on the Precision Rifle Series with the industry’s most trusted factory ammunition. Shipments are currently being delivered to dealers.
New Gold Medal Berger loads feature an advanced boat-tail bullet with a high ballistic coefficient to provide the flattest trajectories, less wind drift and surgical long-range accuracy.
To get the most performance out of the bullet designs, these new loads use Gold Medal match primers, Federal brass and specially formulated propellant, and they adhere to Federal Premium’s strictest specifications for accuracy, pressure and velocity.
Features & Benefits
• Berger Juggernaut OTM, Hybrid OTM or BT Target bullet design, depending on caliber
• Most popular bullets at Precision Rifle Series events
• Extremely high ballistic coefficient
• Less wind drift and drop
• World-class long-range accuracy
• Gold Medal match primer
• Loaded to Federal Premium’s tightest specifications
Part No. / Description / MSRP
GM223BH73 / 223 Rem. 73-grain Berger BT Target / $32.95
GM65GDLBH130 / 6.5 Grendel 130-grain Berger Hybrid OTM / $34.95
GM65CRDBH130 / 6.5 Creedmoor 130-grain Hybrid OTM / $34.95
GM308BH185 / 308 Win. 185-grain Berger Juggernaut OTM / $34.95
Federal Premium is a brand of Vista Outdoor Inc., an outdoor sports and recreation company. For more information on Federal Premium, go to www.federalpremium.com.
Continuing with the SOF requirements for more UAVs, there is also a need to detect and target a hostile sUAV. One approach is based on a directed energy system like the one developed by Boeing. The directed energy system focus a high energy laser on the UAV or sUAV and in about 15 seconds creating structural damage to incapacitate its target. Boeing’s Compact Laser Weapon System shot down a Class 1 UAV with a 10-second laser shot during the Pentagon’s Black Dart anti-drone exercise in 2015. Demand for directed energy weapons is not limited to the SOF community but they are vitally import in ensuring mission success.
A non-kinetic approach to drone defense is Battelle’s DroneDefender portable anti-UAV beam weapon. Battelle designed and r.f. solution on an M4 format. The system targets the UAV with an r.f. beam that interferes with the UAV control link. Most of the commercial UAVs operate in the 2.4 Ghz. or 5 Ghz. spectrum. Depending on its programming, once the UAV looses its control link, it will return home or land. Some of the issues with this approach revolve around cracked drone software. It is possible to develop code that will allow the drone to detonate a payload rather than go home or land. The drone could also be programmed to ride the interfering r.f. beam to its source. This scenario is hypothetical and requires some level of technical sophistication but certainly possible. In the meantime, Battelle’s DroneDefender is providing the operator with a compact and highly portable technology to counter the increasing threat from commercial UAVs.
Drone detection is equally important and to address that need SpotterRF developed the A2000 Counter Drone Radar.
SpotterRF Compact Surveillance Radars have traditionally been used for protection against ground targets. However, compact radar technology works especially well for detection of aerial vehicles – such as drones. The ever increasing threat of drones has created the need for compact surveillance radar able to detect small drones at distances of 1 kilometer. The A2000 was specifically developed to detect a DJI size drone at ranges of close to 1 km. Small enough to be mounted anywhere the A2000 is an integral part of a complete drone detection, identification and defeat solution such as the UAVX system developed by SpotterRF and Black Sage Technologies. The A2000 can be tripod mounted an easily deployed to protect an area of operation, then quickly broken down and packed out of the AO.
WILSONVILLE, Ore., – May 23, 2017 – FLIR Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: FLIR) today announced that James J. (“Jim”) Cannon has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer, effective June 19, 2017. Mr. Cannon will succeed Andy Teich, whose retirement after 33 years of service was previously announced on February 14, 2017.
Mr. Cannon’s extensive and varied leadership experience, together with his proven operational expertise and ability to adapt business strategies to meet evolving market needs, makes him ideally suited to lead FLIR and its portfolio of innovative technology-based products and applications. He previously served for more than 16 years in a variety of senior leadership positions at Stanley Black & Decker, Inc., most recently as President of Stanley Security North America & Emerging Markets. Prior to that, Mr. Cannon was President of the company’s Industrial & Automotive Repair (IAR) business unit, first in North America and subsequently in Europe and Latin America, before then serving as President of Stanley Oil & Gas.
In addition to his global, cross-functional leadership experience at Stanley Black & Decker, Mr. Cannon served in the U.S. Army for 10 years as an infantryman and armor officer in a wide variety of assignments around the world, including Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in Iraq, where he learned to truly appreciate FLIR’s technology and was awarded a Combat Infantryman’s Badge. He later oversaw key security missions as part of the Army’s peace enforcement operations in Bosnia.
“We are delighted to appoint a chief executive of Jim’s caliber,” said Earl R. Lewis, Chairman of the FLIR Board of Directors. “Jim’s proven track record of achieving strong results in both business and the military make him uniquely well qualified to serve as FLIR’s next CEO. Our Board of Directors conducted a thorough search process, in which Jim distinguished himself as a true leader of leaders and demonstrated his experience and adaptability running business units worldwide. We’re confident he is the right person to lead FLIR’s dedicated employees. On behalf of the entire Board, I’m pleased to welcome Jim and am excited to work closely with him as we continue to leverage the unique attributes of the FLIR brand and product portfolio to deliver increased value to our shareholders.”
“The opportunity to join this outstanding leadership team and serve alongside over 3,000 talented FLIR employees worldwide as the Company’s next CEO is a great honor,” said Mr. Cannon. “The FLIR brand is synonymous with continuous innovation and delivering value to customers around the world. From my own personal experience having relied on FLIR technology as a combat veteran, I’ve seen firsthand the powerful, life-saving impact the Company’s portfolio of solutions can have for our customers. Andy and the FLIR team have done a great job building out FLIR’s technology and business, and I’m excited to build on that success and drive further growth for the benefit of FLIR’s employees, customers, and shareholders.”
As President of Stanley Security North America & Emerging Markets, Mr. Cannon held direct P&L responsibilities across five business units, managed over 5,000 employees, and oversaw the operations of numerous manufacturing plants and distribution centers. In this role, he successfully developed and executed a strategic plan that reduced complexity and cost while driving continued and sustained improvement. In his previous roles as President of Stanley Oil & Gas, President of IAR Europe & Latin America, and President of IAR North America, he demonstrated his operational skills by driving significant organic growth, increased efficiency, and improved profitability at each business unit.
Mr. Cannon serves on the board of directors of Lydall, Inc. and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration/Marketing from the University of Tennessee in Chattanooga.
Mr. Cannon will be based out of the Company’s Wilsonville, Oregon headquarters.
The Special Operations Forces Industry Conference (SOFIC) is a premier event held annually in Tampa, FL home of U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). The venue is a collaborative effort between USSOCOM and the National Defence Industrial Association (NDIA). NDIA is designated by the IRS as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. The organization traces its roots to the American Defense Preparedness Association (ADPA), founded in 1919, and the National Security Industrial Association (NSIA), founded in 1944. For 100 years, NDIA has been the glue that creates a collaborative environment between Defense, Industry and Academia. Organizing SOFIC is one of those activities. So, what is SOFIC?
The conference brings together the U.S. and international Special Operations Community with industry to exchange ideas, communicate needs and explore opportunities. Every year, thousands of attendees from all over the world and over 400 exhibitors gather at the Tampa Convention Center in what is one of the best SOF centric conferences available anywhere.
The Special Operations Community is called upon to do some of the heavy lifting as we prosecute the GWOT. The asymmetric environment these men and women operate in is both challenging and perilous; placing demands on people and assets that require a continual evolution of methods and technology. Complicating this complex fabric is the very real fact that our adversary is employing readily available technology to communicate, plan, and execute with increasing effectiveness. To counter this momentum, industry needs to develop SOF centric technologies that deny and mitigate the effective use of technology tools against our and our partner’s forces. Winning the day in today’s theaters is no longer a function of the biggest tank, the best firearms or artillery. The battlefield circa 2017 needs information, analytics, behavioral biometrics and
other “force multipliers.” Technology must not only be better, it must be faster and cheaper. Operators in the field now are confronting commercially available drones being used for ISR and weaponized; therefore, technologies are needed to detect and destroy the sUAV in the field. In the words of LTG Kenneth E Tovo, Commander, USASOC “we don’t just need a drone we need swarms of them.” That statement alone is an industry signal on needs going forward – technology serving as force multipliers.
USSOCOM Service Component & Sub-Unified Command Panel were very much in sync identifying needs that address sustainment and future capability gaps.
So what’s hot at this year’s SOFIC Conference?
At the top of the list is the sUAV, all of the services want more of them; specifically, sUAVs that can be operated by a single operator, which suggests that you’ll see a huge increase in Part 107 compliant (gross weight between .5lbs to 55lbs) UAVs. Size alone is not at the heart of innovation, flight performance and payloads are being aggressively developed. One impressive example exhibited at this year’s conference is Drone Aviation Corp’s Heavy Lift WATT 300 Multirotor Tethered Drone and the recently upgraded WASP Military Aerostat Platforms.
In addition to ISR the sUAV will play an increasingly important role in logistics, and in the very near future operators will be resupplied via UAV. As the sUAV permeates the Services, industry will drive demand for payload packages, man-portable platforms will need tactical nylon specifically designed to transport the UAV and their corresponding remote control platforms and weaponizing the sUAV will likely be a dedicated industry sector.
AR owners are all too familiar with what a pain it is to clean the chamber. Swab-Its, makers of the popular Bore Tips, introduced their Star Chamber Cleaning foam swabs in late April 2017. We’ll be trying them out this June to share our impressions.
ANOKA, Minnesota – May 18, 2017 – Federal Premium Ammunition’s Personal Defense HST Micro loads fuel peak performance from subcompact, concealed-carry handguns. For 2017, the HST Micro line has been expanded to include a 130-grain 38 Special +P load with a deeply seated bullet that eliminates excess air space in the case. This results in the most consistent velocities and terminal performance. Shipments of the new loads are now arriving at dealers.
Like all HST Micro rounds, the new load provides reliable expansion, optimum penetration and superior terminal performance with a bullet weight and propellant optimized for the most efficiency and accuracy in subcompact handguns.
“By combining the HST bullet design with the unique seating depth, we’ve created the most consistent 38 Special personal defense load on the market,” says Federal Premium Handgun Product Lane Director Jason Nash. “We’re proud to give those who carry a 38 Special the most effective possible option for the platform.”
Features & Benefits
• New 38 Special +P load for micro-size concealed carry revolvers
• Deep bullet seating eliminates inconsistent powder burn rates
• Law enforcement proven HST bullet design
• Expanded diameter and weight retention produce the desired penetration for personal defense situations, without over-penetrating
• Clean-burning, low-flash propellants
Part No. / Description / MSRP
P38HST1S / 38 Special +P HST Micro, 130 grain / $30.95
Federal Premium is a brand of Vista Outdoor Inc., an outdoor sports and recreation company. For more information on Federal Premium, go to www.federalpremium.com.
The EX Performance Stock is adjustable, made from high impact polymer, weighs less than a pound and has a thick recoil pad that tames even the most punishing calibers.
Nampa, Idaho (May 2017) – Adaptive Tactical, LLC, manufacturers of innovative firearm stocks, magazines, conversion kits and accessories, is pleased to announce that its popular EX Performance Adjustable M4-Style Stock for the AR15/AR10 Carbine Platform is now available in Flat Dark Earth (FDE).
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“We had hard-hitting calibers like .308, .458 SOCOM and .50 Beowulf in mind when designing the EX Performance stock. It’s made out of high impact polymer, has an oversized, high-strength adjustment pin and a thick recoil pad that’ll soak up the most punishing recoil, all while weighing in at less than a pound. You asked for it and we listened, due to high customer demand, the popular EX Performance stock is now available in Flat Dark Earth.” said Gary Cauble, Director of Sales and Marketing for Adaptive Tactical.
The stock is fully adjustable and has an easy access, quick adjust lever that allows the operator to adjust length on the fly.
Features:
Gun owners wanting the latest in AR15/AR10 stock technology can purchase the EX Performance Stock in FDE online at http://adaptivetactical.com/products/experformance-ar-stock.php or by contacting their local firearm retailer.
For more information on Adaptive Tactical, visit www.adaptivetactical.com or “Like” us on Facebook and “Follow” us on Instagram. For more information on Adaptive Graphx or Stōn Camo, visit www.adaptivegraphx.com and www.stoncamo.com.
Midlothian, Va., May 16th, 2017 — GPO, USA, the industry’s newest premium optics company introduces the PASSION™ 6X riflescope portfolio. This product is German designed and engineered and brings quality, features and value together for the benefit of the American hunter. The PASSION™ 6X riflescope lineup is built on a 30mm machined aircraft aluminum main tube, comes standard with iControl™ fiber-optic auto-off illuminated reticles and is offered in 24mm, 50mm, and 56mm objective lens models.
“PASSION™ 6X is one of our flagship categories packed with the optical brilliance and technical features expected from super-premium riflescopes. With a 6X zoom factor, it is a highly versatile tool in the American hunters’ arsenal of equipment,” says Michael Jensen, owner and CEO of GPO, USA. “Feature for feature, spec for spec, this product simply outshines other competitive European product lines.”
The PASSION™ 6X riflescope line will initially be offered in a 1-6x24i, 2.5-15x50i and 2.5-15x56i, all with an iControl™ illuminated 4A reticle. With durable metallic turret caps, easily adjustable PASSIONtrac™ quick zero custom turrets, GPObright™ high transmission lens coating technology, and Passiondrop™ hydrophobic exterior lens coatings coupled with double HD glass objective lenses, fast-focus rubberized ocular, and an extra wide magnification adjustment ring, these scopes will meet the needs of everyone looking for a high-performance riflescope. Select models include extreme wide-angle field of view, sure to please optical enthusiasts. The illuminated reticle options are fiber-optically driven and have the newest iControl™ auto-off feature that protects the battery from draining unnecessarily, so users always have illumination when they need it most. This feature is usually found in much higher-priced scopes.
“We packed this product with highest optical and technical features available in the world and fought to keep pricing reasonable. Extreme premium products do not need to come with extreme premium prices. As serious outdoorsmen ourselves, we understand how important it is for American hunters to trust in their equipment,” says Jensen. “When you see this product and compare it to competitive scopes, technically, optically, and by price, you’ll see why it will quickly become a leader it its price/class space.”
All GPO products purchased in the United States include the GPO, USA’s spectacular lifetime warranty. Full details of this incredible warranty can be found at www.gpo-usa.com.
WE FIGHT – WE SUPPORT – WE CARE. GPO, USA is proud to contribute a portion of all sales proceeds to the following organizations: Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, National Rifle Association, Safari Club International, and American Birding Association. GPO also proudly contributes to cerebral palsy research. For additional information onthese efforts, visit www.gpo-usa.com or e-mail gpocares@gpo-usa.com.



While at Shot Show 2017 I had the opportunity to shoot Silencerco’s MAXIM ® 9. Two things are important when discussing the MAXIM. This is the industry’s first integrally suppressed pistol in a full length and short configurations. The MAXIM is a Silencerco design from the ground up and this striker fired 9 mm feels great in the hand with a very nice trigger.
Shipped in its full-length configuration, the Maxim 9 comes with everything the user needs to shorten the overall length by more than 1”; in the short configuration, the Maxim 9 remains hearing safe with subsonic ammunition.
Features & Key Benefits:
For additional information visit Silencerco
LAS VEGAS, NV –As part of the consolidation of its product line-up and trimming certain models, Arsenal, Inc. is phasing out the SAM7K and SLR-106UR Pistol models. These 7.62x39mm and 5.56x45mm pistols will no longer be manufactured and all stock will be offered at significantly lowered prices. All configurations will be available at $300-$500 lower than their standard MSRP, while stocks last. Please contact your retailers and distributors for stock status and actual pricing.
SAM7K Pistol – 7.62x39mm caliber pistol, milled receiver (hot-die hammer forged), short gas system, front sight block / gas block combination, 10 1/2 inch chrome lined hammer forged barrel, black polymer, Picatinny Quad Rail handguard furniture options, original pistol grip made to work with ambidextrous safety lever, peep rear sight, side mounted scope rail, integrated flashlight option. Includes one 5-round magazine, sling, oil bottle, and cleaning kit.
| SAM7K-01 | SAM7K-01R | SAM7K-02 |
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SLR-106 UR Pistol – 5.56x45mm caliber pistol, stamped receiver, short gas system, front sight block / gas block combination, 8 1/2 inch chrome lined hammer forged barrel, new style removable muzzle brake/compensator designed to reduce recoil, 24×1.5mm RH threads, black polymer, wood, or Picatinny Quad Rail handguard furniture options, stabilizing brace options. Includes one each 5-round and 20-round magazines, sling, oil bottle, and cleaning kit.
| SLR106-58 | SLR106-58R | SLR106-59 |
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| SLR106-60 | SLR106-60R | SLR106-60W |
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Learn about all the Arsenal Pistol variants here: http://www.arsenalinc.com/usa/Pistols/
The Mossberg® Gear Shotgun Belt and Shotgun Bandolier keep your shells within reach for fast reloads.
Nampa, Idaho (May 2017) – Mossberg® Gear, a creator of top-quality licensed outdoor products that mirror Mossberg’s tradition of design innovation, performance and reliability, is pleased to announce their new Shotgun Bandolier and Shotgun Belt.
“When you’re out in the field, you don’t have time to fumble around hunting for shells in boxes, pouches or your pockets. The Mossberg Shotgun Bandolier and Shotgun Belt put the shells at your fingertips and make reloading quick and easy,” said Gary Cauble, Mossberg Gear VP of Sales. ![]()

The Mossberg Shotgun Bandolier stores up to 45 shells. The shells are in easy reach and stay in the same place and in the same orientation, making for quick reloads. Designed for heavy-duty field use, the bandolier is constructed of durable nylon with reinforced stitching and nonslip elastic storage loops that can hold 12, 16 or 20 Ga. shells. The bandolier has a heavy duty tri-lock buckle that ensures a strong and secure latch. The bandolier’s over-the-shoulder design is fully adjustable from 48″ to 58,” accommodating any size shooter and includes a removable five shell storage pack. MSRP $29.99.

The Mossberg Shotgun Belt keeps up to 25 rounds ready-to-go at your belt line so you can quickly reload. The belt is adjustable from waist size 27″ to 44.'” This heavy-duty and field-ready belt features a durable quick-release tri-lock buckle, reinforced nonslip elastic storage loops that can hold 12, 16 or 20 Ga. shells, reinforced stitching and heavy-duty webbing. MSRP $26.99.
Mossberg Gear is now accepting applications from qualified dealers and distributors. To learn more about how you can become a dealer or distributor of Mossberg gear, send your inquiry to info@copperbasingear.com . For more information on Mossberg Gear, visit www.mossberggear.com.
Feistritz, Austria (May 2017) – Ritter & Stark GmbH, an Austrian-based firearms design and manufacturing company, is proud to announce that Lt. Greg McGivern, of the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, has won the Ritter & Stark SX-1 MTR it donated to the Police Magazine’s Well Dressed Tactical Officer Giveaway.
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Police Magazine said that they’ve never had as much interest in a weapon sponsored for its Well Dressed Officer Contest than it did with the SX-1 MTR.
“I was floored when I learned that I had won the contest. I never win anything! It really made my year. I want to thank Ritter & Stark for supplying a fantastic rifle as one of the prizes, said McGivern.

“We are proud supporters of law enforcement officers and we were happy to be able to participate in Police Magazine’s prize package and give a well deserving law enforcement officer an absolutely amazing rifle. Thank you for your service, Greg!” said Yakov Trakhman, marketing director of Ritter & Stark.
The SX-1 MTR has been designed by the world’s best engineers, using state of the art machinery and proprietary techniques to create an advanced long-range precision rifle. The SX-1 MTR allows the operator to quickly and easily change out calibers between .308 Win, .300 Win Magnum and .338 Lapua Magnum while in the field. All conversion kits contain the elements necessary for an easy transition from one caliber to another.
In addition to the ease of interchangeability, the barrels come with a MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny rail pre-installed, allowing the operator to pre-sight optics on each barrel, eliminating any need to re-zero the rifle when changing caliber. This is especially important for those professionals who, while in the field, must adapt quickly as their mission changes. The SX-1 MTR’s modularity also allows the utilization of different aftermarket magazines, triggers and grips, providing tactical operators with the ability to customize the rifle to their specific body-type and mission.
One of the secrets to Ritter & Stark’s unprecedented accuracy is its unique barrel production. No other barrel maker in the world manufacturers its barrels like Ritter & Stark. The rifling is done in a CNC-controlled electrochemical machine. This avoids the transmission of thermal effects and mechanical stress to the material. Furthermore, this process allows Ritter & Stark to produce barrels with unique uniformity and within tolerance zones that were not possible in serial production before.

Every rifle is tested at the factory and can achieve 0.5 MOA 3-round groups or better using factory match grade ammunition.
Visit www.ritterstark.com to learn more about its rifles.
I’m just getting back from another outstanding SOFIC Conference in Tampa, Fl. This coming week, I’ll be updating readers on what the SOF Community is up to, what their needs are going forward along with a 30,000 foot look at their very broad capabilities, and some of the goodies industry has to offer. So stay tuned!
I want to thank NDIA and USSOCOM for the hard work that goes into making the event such a great success.
MPA Sponsored Shooters David Preston and Matt Rooks took first and second at the Big Dog Steel Buckeye Classic while MPA Sponsored Shooter Jon Pynch won the South Dakota Classic match and MPA Team Shooter Steven Kylberg took second at the NALRSA match.

David Preston taking a long range shot with his MPA BA Chassis at the Buckeye Classic.
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Jon Pynch (C) and his first-place trophy
Comer, Ga.- (May2017) – MasterPiece Arms (MPA), manufacturers of the MPA BA Rifles, Chassis Systems, Defender Pistols and Carbines, Suppressors and MPAR Rifles, is proud to announce that its sponsored shooters David Preston and Matt Rooks took first and second place, respectively, using the MPA BA Chassis, at the Big Dog Steel Buckeye Classic held May 6 – 7, 2017 in Kimbolton, Ohio. In addition, sponsored shooter, Jon Pynch, took first using the MPA Competition chassis at the South Dakota Steel Classic held May 5-7 in Orient, South Dakota, while MPA Team Shooter Steven Kylberg came in second at the North American Long Range Shooting Association (NALRSA) match held May 6, 2017,in Bandera, Texas, shooting a complete MPA rifle.
“The Buckeye Classic was a challenging match. With the help of my Masterpiece BA chassis I was able to maintain comfortable and rock solid positions which consisted of prone, barricades and slung positional,” said David Preston, winner of the Buckeye Classic.

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Matt Rooks and his BA Chassis at the Buckeye Challenge.
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Not only is the MPA BA Competition Chassis winning matches, it’s taking over the Precision Rifle Series (PRS) community. According to a recent survey, the MPA BA Chassis is the most popular chassis among the top 100 PRS shooters and experienced a 900 percent increase in use from the year before, which was by far the biggest jump among all chassis systems. MPA BA rifles and chassis are built by precision rifle shooters, for precision rifle shooters. In fact, MPA’s president, Phil Cashin, is an active PRS shooter. He finished in the top 100 this year and qualified for the finale last year. Cashin is always testing out new ideas and tweaks in the matches he competes in and continues to seek out feedback from other world class shooters.
“We build our rifles with the needs of elite PRS and long distance shooters in mind.” said Cashin.

Steven Kylberg accepting his prize money.
Custom MPA BA Rifle Specifications:
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MPA BA Rifle
For more information on MasterPiece Arms and their product line of pistols, rifles, carbines and suppressors, visit www.masterpiecearms.com.
TAMPA, Fla., May 15, 2017 — Visual Awareness Technologies and Consulting Inc. (VATC), a leader in delivering realistic training environments to government and commercial customers around the world, announced today that it will provide demonstrations of its innovative EPIC Ready platform, and host a small user group reception to discuss the current and future applications of the product at the 2017 Special Operations Forces Industry Conference in Tampa, Fla., May 15-18. At their user group reception, titled “The Map of ThingsTM: Mission Readiness through a Map-Based Data Analytics Platform,” EPIC Ready users are invited to discuss the product’s development and deployment thus far, and operational input into the technology’s future solutions for greater mission readiness. Launched just six months ago at I/ITSEC 2016, EPIC is already having great success in support to many customers across the DoD.
“In today’s ever-changing threat environment, no organization is ever expected or able to act alone in times of crisis. Recognizing the numerous challenges that face the Joint Forces today and in the future, we developed the EPIC Ready platform to bridge critical gaps in training realism and assessment,” said Sara Moola, VATC’s co-founder and CEO. “EPIC Ready seeks to maximize individual and unit mission readiness by exposing all echelons of command to the most realistic training and exercise experience possible, enabling objective and comprehensive exercise performance measurement, and visually representing the multi-dimensional ‘Map of Things’ through EPIC’s high resolution 3D common layered geospatial environment. We’re looking forward to discussing the future of the product, and how we work together for enhancing global mission readiness, with our users at SOFIC.”
EPIC Ready™ is a cloud-based or appliance-delivered platform that was created to improve realism in training, and to distribute exercise performance analytics in both dashboards and map-based presentations. Using a combination of geospatial representation and analytics, replication of realistic human dynamics, and performance-driven metrics, EPIC delivers comprehensive analysis and quantifiable and actionable results available for sharing “Jointly” among defense, intelligence, partner nations and non-governmental organizations. EPIC Ready™ is comprised of three tools combining to generate the most realistic open and distributed enterprise platform ever created. System elements include:
The EPIC Ready platform will be demonstrated at SOFIC 2017, May 15-18, in suites 2138/2133 at the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel. To set up a demo, contact Thomas Miller from VATC at tmiller@vatcinc.com. To learn more about VATC, please visit www.vatcinc.com.
About Visual Awareness Technologies and Consulting, Inc. (VATC)
For more than a decade, Visual Awareness Technologies and Consulting Inc. (VATC) has combined its joint training experience, innovative engineering talent, and intelligence expertise to pioneer the development of the most advanced, realistic Distributed Missions Operations (DMO) training environments available. Combining the latest open geospatial data standards with an integrated suite of innovative DMO training solutions, VATC offers a legacy of proven performance, leading subject-matter expertise and the most innovative technological solutions to the modern military’s growing challenges. For more information, visit us at www.vatcinc.com, or on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.
The KRISS VECTOR GEN II SDP-SB is an amazing firearm. Buyers derive all the benefits of compactness, reliability and simplicity with multi-caliber flexibility and none of the NFA burden.
Read My Review…
The MASTERFIRE™Rapid Deploy Holster is now available from Surefire. The holster is compatible with Surefire’s XH15, X300UH-B and X400UH-A lights. M.S.R.P. $165.39
Lyons Falls, NY: Otis Technology is proud to announce the launch of three special edition Thin Blue Line Ripcord® Cleaning Kits. A portion of proceeds from the kits will support the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF). They will be available starting May 14, 2017, the start of National Police Week.
Each kit features two exclusive blue and gray Ripcords®, two caliber specific brushes, two slotted tips and 2” and 3” patches in a convenient carry case. Featuring a special edition Otis logo and incorporating a thin blue line, they are available in the following calibers: 5.56mm/9mm, 5.56mm/.40 cal and 5.56mm/.45 cal.
NLEOMF is dedicated to telling the story of American Law Enforcement and making it safer for those who serve. The organization also built and maintains the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial which is the nation’s monument to law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. Additionally, NLEOMF is a principal organizer of National Police Week. Five percent of sales on the special edition Thin Blue Line Ripcord® Cleaning Kits will be donated to the memorial fund.
“We salute the brave members of our law enforcement community. As a small token of our appreciation, we developed these special edition cleaning kits and what better time to kick it off than during National Police Week – a special time devoted to recognizing those in blue who have lost their lives to protect ours,” states Greg Essenlohr, Military/LE Sales Manager for Otis Technology.
The cleaning kits will retail for $24.99 and are available at www.otistec.com and www.webyshops.com.
Otis Technology is known for manufacturing the most advanced gun cleaning systems and accessories available. The superior Breech-to-Muzzle® design combined with unmatched quality has positioned Otis as the gun care system of choice with the US Military. Otis Technology is SMART GUN CARE.

TGIF readers! We made it through another week and now it’s time to light up the grill and enjoy a relaxing Mother’s Day weekend. It’s also time for our weekly (most of the time) shoot the shit topic.
For new readers, a shoot the shit is a freeform discussion on virtually anything whether you actually know something about what is being discussed or not. Readers can make unsupported comments, use uncensored profanity, insult anyone you wish or change the subject altogether. This week we’ve chosen to talk about cyber security and the importance of the President’s EO on cyber security.
This past Thursday, President Donald J Trump signed the final version of the Administration’s cybersecurity executive order. Unlike other policy positions from previous administration, the President has done something long overdue by fostering a risk management and risk mitigation philosophy. It establishes executive level responsibility for cybersecurity across all levels of government. Protecting networks, data and systems is no longer relegated to the geeky guys working in the IT group – Secretaries and Directors now own it.
It blows me away to see government employees, defense and civilian, using computing assets to access personal e-mail and surf the net. Bad idea managers!
We are operating in an environment where space assets and data networks are more important in winning the day than your choice of carbines; that’s a fact, whether you wish to accept it or not. So here’s some of the key points addresses by the EO…
There are three sections in the final EO, Cybersecurity of Federal Networks, Cybersecurity of Critical Infrastructure and Cybersecurity for the Nation. Each section details a set of required assessments, reports, plans and recommendations to be completed by federal executives, either individually or jointly. The EO stipulates a deadline for each deliverable, with some requiring milestones and timelines for implementation.
Read the EO and implement!
Have a great weekend! Happy Mother’s Day to all of you Moms out there. Remember that your journey as a mother is even more important than the event.
Doylestown, Pa. (May 2017) – The National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) is pleased to announce the spring edition of The Tactical Edge is now available. Widely considered to be the leading authority in tactical operations information, The Tactical Edge reaches more than 60,000 law enforcement officers from over 8,000 agencies and divisions.
Members-only features include R.K. Miller’s “The Mission Brief” and “After-Action Reports: Why You Need Them and How They Can Help You” by Jim Balthazar. Also featured is “Reciprocity, Consistency and Your Negotiation,” by Brad Young. The entire issue is available online to law enforcement officers who become a member of the NTOA.
The NTOA has also made several articles available online to nonmembers, including “Agility Training for Law Enforcement Officers” by Nathan Dicks. In this article, Dicks explains various training techniques to assist officers in improving their rate of force development, or acceleration and absolute speed, to combat the additional weight of their duty gear. Also featured is “National Law Enforcement Museum: History in the Making,” which gives an overview of how the museum was started, its partnership with the NTOA, and the Stand with Honor campaign, which promotes the National Law Enforcement Museum’s Honor Alliance.
Other items of interest are the director’s message by Mark Lomax, an interview with retired Major Mark E. Gibbons on the changes in the field of tactical emergency medical care and where he sees the future of this sub-specialty group going and a student profile from the NTOA Command College on Lt. David Allen of the Okaloosa County (FL) Sheriff’s Office.
The Tactical Edge has been providing the law enforcement community with cutting edge, lifesaving information from leading experts for more than 30 years and is the winner of multiple awards, including the 2006 American In-House Design Award from Graphic Design USA and the 2013 APEX Award for Publication Excellence from Communications Concepts. It is published quarterly in February, May, August and November.
The Tactical Edge is seeking new content. If you have an area of expertise or would like to write about an incident, training technique, crisis negotiation or another topic, please contact editor@ntoa.org. Don’t be intimidated – The Tactical Edge editing team can help new writers through the article writing process. For submission guidelines, visit http://ntoa.org/tacticaledge/.
For more information on the National Tactical Officers Association, visitwww.ntoa.org or call 800-279-9127. Join the NTOA today and start receiving the benefits of better training and stay on top of the ever-changing and challenging world of law enforcement.
Crimson Trace has announced the availability of the LINQ wireless laser/light system for the AK pattern rifles. The new LNQ-103G will fit all stamped receiver rifles. It will also fit the Springfield Armory M1A SOCOM 16CQB.
LiNQ™ combines a green laser sight and 300-Lumen LED white light with Instinctive Activation™ for AR-Type Modern Sporting Rifles and AK-Type Rifles. Utilizing a secure, individual connection, LiNQ offers complete wireless control of the laser and light module. The replacement grip is ergonomically designed for quick activation and mode changes, eliminating the need to reach for the rifle’s forend to operate.
The green laser sight, coupled with a powerful tactical light, offers high visibility in all lighting conditions, making LiNQ the ultimate illumination and targeting solution.
Houston, TX, May 2017, Comp-Tac Victory Gear’s International holster is designed for competition, and also works for defensive carry, thanks to several fast mover features that fit the majority of competition and self-defense handguns. Think of the International as the workhorse of competition holsters and you will see why it is both a popular self-defense carry holster and the holster of choice for most IDPA competitors for the last five years.
Each International comes with the correct pistol model marked on the holster.
The Comp-Tac International is an outside-the-waistband belt holster. It comes with a 16-option modular mounting system and 8 mounting holes for various fit choices such as straight, FBI cant, or rearward cross-draw cant. The International holster is designed to fit many other mounting systems offered by other brands, and complies with USPSA and IDPA rules.
The International’s cool vent paddle mount fits over the waist band, and has a drop offset feature that sets the pistol lower and away from the body for comfort and a faster draw–especially appreciated by female competitors because it helps fit many different body shapes and sizes. It has a ½-inch-tall sight rail and fits most red-dot and suppressor optic co-witnessing sights.
The International will fit belts up to 2 inches wide. The paddle mount adds additional physical support, as well as the capability to bypass belt loops, and delivers the really firm fit necessary for fast, no-fumble, stable-holster draws and no-look holstering. The Kydex body features an ultra-smooth (slick) interior for quick and near-frictionless draws.
As with each holster Comp-Tac makes, the International is tested for perfect fit with a correct model real handgun. Competitors are encouraged to contact the company to ensure that their order complies with all related rules and configurations.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS SCOUT
GRANTS PASS, OREGON, MAY 8TH, 2017 — Noveske is proud to announce that the highly anticipated NSD Rifle has begun production, and is awaiting ATF forms to ship to dealers now. The NSD rifle features an 8.5” Blackout barrel with a permanently attached Dead Air™ Sandman-Ti silencer- making it a one-tax stamp rifle. This quiet combo is covered by an oversized hand guard based on the design aesthetics of our NSR rail. Also included in the rifle is an ALG trigger, Noveske ambi safety, and magpul furniture. MSRP $3,250.
To help celebrate the release we teamed up with some of our friends to create a Spring launch video. Along side of the NSD rifle, the video also features our 7.5″ Diplomat, N6 in 7.62×51, and a 300 Blackout replacement barrel for the FN 249 machine gun.
What do you get when you mix full-auto 300 Blackout rifles (Noveske NSD, and FN 249), SBR’s, MP5’s, Night Vision, river rafting, and pool parties? The most badass, all-American weekend with Noveske, Resco Watches, One More Wave, URT Clothing, and Superior Defense! We call it Range Forever!
Malanpur, Madhya Pradesh, 4 May, 2017 – Diversified conglomerate Punj Lloyd and its JV Partner, Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) today inaugurated the country’s first Private Sector Small Arms Manufacturing Plant at Malanpur in Madhya Pradesh.
Presided over by the Honorable Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Honorable Minister of Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Drinking Water & Sanitation, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, the inauguration was attended by personnel from the Indian Armed Forces, State Police, Coastguard, Paramilitary, the media and dignitaries from the Indian Administrative Service. The joint venture company, Punj Lloyd Raksha Systems (PLR) will be manufacturing small arms for the Indian Defence Forces and also for export.
Speaking on the occasion, Samy Katsav, Chairman, SK Group said, “We are indeed fortunate to have in Punj Lloyd a reliable and knowledgeable partner. It is after a lot of due diligence in the Indian market that we identified Punj Lloyd for this partnership. Through this collaboration, we offer the combination of battle proven combat technology of IWI and the proficiency of a renowned Indian business partner. I am extremely upbeat about the opportunities in the sector and confident of contributing to the Make in India programme.
Punj Lloyd Chairman, Atul Punj said, “This is the first opportunity for the country to get its own ‘Made in India’ Small Arms.The need of the hour is to replace the country’s defense weapons with sophisticated and high precision products and Punj Lloyd Raksha Systems is the answer to the country’s immediate need.” Further Mr Punj said, “These are tried and tested battle proven products already being used within the country. It is the first time in India that we are coming together with the complete technology to manufacture these products as ‘Made in India’.”
Present on the occasion, Michel Ben-Baruch, Head of SIBAT, Israel Ministry of Defence said, “Israel’s Ministry of Defense fully and wholeheartedly supports this cooperation and will continue to support the transfer of technology and information also in the future, for the betterment of improved advanced tools. Israel and India consider their defense industry cooperation as a monumental step forward, towards a future of immense potential. “
H.E. Daniel Carmon, Israel’s Ambassador to India said, “Now celebrating 25 years, India and Israel’s growing partnership is multifaceted and ever expanding. The relationship is built on the strengths of each country, contributing to the security and prosperity of both peoples. I applaud the establishment of joint cooperation
ventures, such as between Punj Lloyd and Israel Weapons Industries, taking up Israeli President Rivlin’s call for Israel to ‘Make in India, Make with India’. I hope to see many more such joint endeavors ranging from Security to Food Security, Water to Cyber, Start-up to Space. ”
About Punj Lloyd:
Punj Lloyd brings strong capabilities in Defence across Land Systems, Aerospace, Small Arms and Homeland Security. The objective is to develop genuine force multipliers in providing a decisive edge to the Indian Armed Forces and building a robust indigenous defence industrial base. Some of the Group’s clients in Defence include Ordnance Factory Board, Gun Carriage Factory, Jabalpur, HAL, DLW, AHPL, Fincantieri, SAAB, Toshiba, Metso, Inox Wind among others.
Further information about the Group is available at www.punjlloydgroup.com
About Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) :
IWI is a member of the SK Group and is a world leader in the production, marketing, design and development of unrivalled weapons for over 80 years. All IWI weapons have been battle proven around the world under adverse and extreme environmental conditions. They include the TAVOR Assault Rifles, three caliber X95 (Assault Rifle & SMG), NEGEV Light Machine Guns, GALIL ACE Assault Rifles, GALIL SNIPER Semi-Automatic Rifle, UZI SMG and JERICHO pistols. All these small arms have been considered weapons of choice by Governmental, Military and Police Entities, as well as Law Enforcement Agencies around the world, along with commercial markets.
More information about IWI is available at www.iwi.net. Further information about the SK Group is available at www.sk-g.net
There is a pronounced misunderstanding across the general population about silencers and the reason for their use. Much of it comes from Hollywood’s imaginations; other comes from video games. Silencerco produced an excellent video with a leading gaming industry figure and tells it like it is.
All new 2017 rifles were tested by a group of five independent judges with the B-14 HMR coming out on top.
Lawrenceville, Ga. (May 2017) – Bergara Rifles, a division of BPI Outdoors, is pleased to announce its Bergara B-14 Hunting and Match Rifle (HMR) has won the Outdoor Life Editor’s Choice Award for 2017.
Over several days of shooting, Outdoor Life tested all of the new rifles for 2017. Drills were done to mimic practical shooting positions. The rifles were shot for accuracy off the bench and tested for reliability by being shot in a way to try and induce malfunctions. Each firearm was taken apart and inspected to ascertain the quality of manufacturing and the amount of innovation put into each firearm. The rifles were tested by a group of five independent judges and were evaluated on 10 different categories. In each of these 10 categories, each rifle was scored using a scale from 1-10. After the shooting stopped and the dust settled, the B-14 HMR came out on top.
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“We’re honored that our rifle was chosen by the Outdoor Life judges as the editor’s choice. All of our rifles, and especially the HMR, combine state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques, near-obsessive attention to detail and a passion for bringing our genuine and authentic personal touch to every rifle built. All of this combined allows us to create incredible rifles and my hope is that the care and the passion that each Bergara rifle is built with, will be reflected when a new owner puts one in their hands. We’re grateful and honored Outdoor Life noticed,” said Ben Fleming, VP of marketing and sales at Bergara Rifle.
The Bergara B-14 HMR is a feature-rich rifle, designed to meet the needs of hardcore hunters, precision rifle shooters, and those desiring absolute quality and accuracy.

B14 HMR Rifle Specifications:
Click play to see Outdoor Life’s review of the Bergara B-14 HMR
To learn more about the Bergara B-14 HMR, click here.

Organized by the Hungarian Army, Police Sport Association and Police Training Centre, with participants from around the world will be held May 6 – 9, 2017.
Feistritz, Austria (May 2017) – Ritter & Stark GmbH, an Austrian-based firearms design and manufacturing company, will be a sponsor for the 15th Police and Military Sniper World Cup held May 6 – 9, 2017 at the shooting range of the Hungarian Police in Budapest and the Hungarian Army in Taborfalva, Hungary. This elite event pitches the best in police and military snipers as individuals and teams in a challenging course of fire simulating real-world conditions. Sixty-seven teams are registered to participate from around the world.

The Ritter & Stark SX-1 MTR long-range precision rifle, launched in 2016 has caught the interest of many international police and military agencies at many of the major global defense exhibitions. The Sniper World Cup is an opportunity for Ritter & Stark to get the SX-1 MTR in front of some of the world’s most elite sniper shooters.
The SX-1 MTR allows the operator to quickly and easily change out calibers between .308 Win, .300 Win Magnum and .338 Lapua Magnum while in the field. All conversion kits contain the elements necessary for an easy transition from one caliber to another, such as the barrel, bolt face and magazine adaptor.
In addition to the ease of interchangeability, the barrels come with a MIL-STD 1913 Picatinny rail pre-installed, allowing the operator to pre-sight optics. Thus, when interchanging calibers, the operator does not need to reset any optics since the preset scopes will maintain zero even when interchanged. This is especially important for those professionals, while in the field, must adapt quickly as their mission changes.
The SX-1 MTR’s modularity also allows the utilization of different aftermarket magazines, triggers and grips providing tactical operators with the ability to customize the rifle to their specific body-type and mission
Two Bergara Premier LRP Elite Rifles will be awarded to the winning sniper team of this elite law enforcement and military competition.
Lawrenceville, Ga. (May 2017) –Bergara Rifles, a division of BPI Outdoors, announces it has donated two Bergara Premier LRP Rifles to be given out as prizes to the winning sniper team of the White Feather Sniper Competition, currently taking place May 1-5, 2017 at the White Feather Facility in Ardmore, Tennessee.
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“Bergara stands behind our military and law enforcement. We’re grateful for all that they do and thought it was only right that we give back by donating these two rifles to the Sniper Competition. They’re finely crafted precision firearms that are truly worthy of an elite sniper team,” said Ben Fleming, VP of sales and marketing for Bergara Rifles.
The White Feather Sniper Competition is an elite law enforcement and military only match, where teams of snipers compete over five full days of shooting. At the conclusion of these five days, the points will be totaled and the winning team will be determined.
The Bergara Premier Series LRP Rifle is an extension of Bergara’s Custom Series Rifles, but with standardized features for greater efficiencies in parts production and assembly, providing near custom-quality rifles at prices that are affordable to serious shooters. Every Bergara Premier Rifle is guaranteed to produce sub 1.0 MOA or less groups with quality factory match grade ammunition.

Bergara Premier Series LRP Elite Rifle Specifications:
For more information, visit www.bergarausa.com.

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The Strion DS is yet another example of Streamlight’s commitment to quality and value. I know of no other lighting manufacturer that packs as much value in their products, be they commercial or tactical application illumination tools.
Read My Review…
It’s Friday and time for our weekly shoot the shit topic. This event is made available to all of our readers free of charge because we believe that we are every bit as good as listening to a jackass that studied behavioral “sciences” so they could understand themselves. We want you to make any unsupported comments you see fit, insult anyone you wish, use uncensored profanity or change the subject altogether.
This week, we’d like to talk about the Trump Tax Plan. It’s important for readers to understand the proposed plan because we are being fed all kinds of misinformation by the mainstream media and the Democratic Party.
The proposed plan reduces the marginal tax bracket for business to 15% or 20%, a very substantial reduction from the current 38% – 35%. This applies to C corporations as well as all pass-through entities. Examples of pass-through entities include sole proprietorships, S corporations, master limited partnerships (MLP), limited liability partnerships (LLP) and limited liability companies (LLC). Since many of the companies operating in our industry are pass-through, you should all be very happy about that.
A pass-through entity is allowed customary and extraordinary business deductions; however, their net operating income or loss is treated as personal income, or a loss, to its owners. So, if Muzzle Brakes LLC had $350,000 in net income for the year, that income passes through to Mr. Joe Muzzle Break owner of Muzzle Brakes LLC. Under the proposed plan, his $350,000 business income would be taxed at a 15% or 20%
On the personal side, the plan proposes to double the standard deduction and a reduction in the number of income tax brackets from 7 to 3. The plan keeps charitable contribution deductions and home mortgage interest deductions. This will put more money in the hands of consumers increasing consumer spending. If you want to know why we had a Q1 GDP of 0.7% all you need to do is look at March’s personal consumption expenditures (PCE) which only increased $5.7 billion (less than 0.1 percent) – annualized it translates to 1.2%. When you consider that consumers account for 60% to 70% of GDP that should be an eye opener.
By limiting deductions on the personal side, it makes the plan very equitable and effectively narrows the gap between marginal tax rates (the published tax bracket) and effective tax rates (what the taxpayer actually pays). A person making $1,000,000 or more annually will not be able to take advantage of tax deductions that allows them to reduce their effective tax rate. Remember that under current tax law, a person in the 35% marginal tax bracket can use deductions, shelters and other tools to achieve effective tax rates that are significantly lower than the marginal rate.
The Trump Tax Plan hits all of the right notes but it’s going to take time to work its way through the economy, not to mention the fact that when you have a federal tax reduction, states will look at increasing sales taxes, income taxes etc. So, voters need to keep an eye on your state tax initiatives.
If you are a publicly traded corporation, lower taxes means higher executive bonuses, healthier dividend payments to stockholders, higher earnings per share and a higher stock price. Regrettably, although this is all good, it does nothing for jobs. The demand side of the economy needs a big catalyst.
What we would like to see is business investing in plant and equipment (capital investments) is allowed to be deducted, dollar for dollar, against current period income, for a 3 year period. For example:
If you make rifle actions, you will have a three year window during which you can purchase new CNC machines and deduct the full cost of those new machines against current period income. Currently, capital investments are capitalized – this means you can only write off a portion of the investment year over year until fully depreciated. This alone will spur business investing and ignite the supply chain. Suppliers will see increase demand and add to their labor force.
In closing, the best advice we can give you is, don’t pay a lot of attention to media comments they’re largely misinformation and an abundance of manure.
Also on our wish list is a national lottery with proceeds earmarked for infrastructure and national debt reduction. Increasing the gas tax is in our view the wrong strategy. Time to start thinking out of the box and get the job done!
Have a safe weekend, try to get some range time in, or spend quality time with your buds and family!
GRINNELL, Iowa (May 3, 2017) – Pete Brownell of Montezuma, Iowa, was elected by the National Rifle Association Board of Directors as President May 1, 2017, following the 146th NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits in Atlanta.
An NRA Life Member since birth, Brownell is the Chief Executive Officer of the legendary family-owned firearm and firearm accessory retailer Brownells. He brings a record of leadership, a passion for the outdoors and shooting sports traditions, and vigor to protect and defend the Second Amendment.
Brownell was elected to the NRA Board of Directors in 2010, and has served as Chairman of the Membership Committee, and a member of the Finance, Law Enforcement Assistance, Publications Policies, and Sport Shooting Committees.
Brownell is also former chairman of the Board of the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers and a former member of the U.S. Army’s Command and General Staff Foundation Board. Outside the office, he is an accomplished athlete and avid outdoorsman.
“It’s an honor and privilege to serve the 5 million members of the National Rifle Association of America. I am humbled to serve alongside Wayne LaPierre – the true heart and soul of this Association and to walk in the footsteps of my predecessors,” said Brownell. “I’m a proud NRA member from day one who grew up with a passion for guns, our rich hunting heritage, and a passion to strengthen our Second Amendment.”
Brownells COO/CFO Chad Martin will lead the Brownells family of businesses on a day to day basis, while continuing to work closely with company owners Pete & Frank Brownell.
About Brownells
Serious About Firearms Since 1939™, Brownells is the world’s leading source for guns, gun parts and accessories, ammunition, gunsmithing tools and survival gear. With a large selection of both common and hard-to-find items, and an extensive collection of videos, articles, and gun schematics, Brownells is the expert for everything shooting-related. Committed to maintaining our great traditions, Brownells has more, does more and knows more – and guarantees it all, Forever. For more information or to place an order, call 800-741-0015 or visit Brownells.com. Stay up-to-date with Brownells on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
About the National Rifle Association
Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America’s oldest civil rights and sportsmen’s group. Five million members strong, NRA continues its mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and is the leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the military. Visit http://www.nra.org.
This coming June is a special month for us in that at long last I have the opportunity to review the KRISS Vector. I’ve had a long lasting love affair with the Vector, which began at Blackwater’s facility where it was demonstrated by TDI in its original .45ACP version. The KRISS Vector has come a long way since then and I’ll be telling readers all about the KRISS VECTOR of 2017.
G-Code introduce the OSL (Operational Series-Light) holster. The OSL gives the shooter the ability to carry their weapon and light in a single piece, precision formed, level one holster. The OSL is available in Standard or RTI configuration and will also accommodate weapons equipped with RMR’s or like optics. The OSL Holster is now available for Glock 17, Glock 19 and Glock 34 with the Streamlight TLR-1