The 7.62×51 PMAG 25 M118 LR/SR GEN M3 Window is a lightweight, cost effective, high reliability magazine for SR25/M110 pattern rifles using longer than SAAMI-spec match ammunition up to 2.830″ OAL. The magazine features true 25-round capacity, constant-curve body, anti-tilt follower, snap on Impact/Dust Cover, and transparent windows to allow rapid visual identification of approximate number of rounds remaining.
M.S.R.P. $22.95
Coming in October is my review of Alien Gear’s Cloak Tuck 3.0 IWB holster. This is possibly the most comfortable IWB holster that I’ve ever used. This holster offers superb quality and comfort with an amazing warranty from Alien Gear Holsters. Check out my upcoming review
If there ever was an American success story CamelBak Products LLC is certainly it. The Petaluma, CA. company’s CamelBak brand is recognized the world over for its innovative hydration products in use with the world’s militaries and outdoors enthusiasts, became part of Vista Outdoor’s family of companies. The announcement was made on 27 July 2015. Vista Outdoor will purchase CamelBak for $412.5 million, against CamelBak projected net sales of $160 million for 2015.
CLEARFIELD, Utah, July 27, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Vista Outdoor Inc. (NYSE: VSTO), a leading global designer, manufacturer and marketer in the growing outdoor sports and recreation markets, announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire CamelBak Products, LLC. CamelBak is the leading provider of personal hydration solutions for outdoor, recreation and military use. The company’s products include hydration packs, reusable bottles and individual purification and filtration systems.
The CamelBak acquisition will strengthen and expand Vista Outdoor’s presence in outdoor sports and recreation, with products that complement every outdoor activity where Vista Outdoor’s products are used. The acquisition will provide Vista Outdoor with another highly recognized and well-respected brand that is a preferred partner to leading retailers. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Vista Outdoor anticipates closing the transaction within the next month.
“The acquisition of CamelBak greatly advances Vista Outdoor’s strategy to grow and strengthen our leading position in the outdoor recreation industry,” said Mark DeYoung, Vista Outdoor Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “CamelBak fortifies our presence in the mainstream individual outdoor recreation market, creating an opportunity to increase the scale, reach and growth of several current offerings through an expanded global sourcing capability and a broadened retail distribution network. With limited overlap between our key customers, this acquisition creates significant cross-selling opportunities, increased channel presence and access into expanded domestic and international markets. As a market leader and preferred partner, Vista Outdoor can leverage the technical expertise of CamelBak to deliver innovative solutions and quality product offerings that will create value for our shareholders and customers.”
Under the terms of the transaction, Vista Outdoor will purchase CamelBak for $412.5 million, subject to a customary working capital adjustment, utilizing cash on hand and borrowings under its existing credit facilities. Management expects calendar year 2015 net sales for CamelBak of approximately $160 million. The purchase price includes an approximate net present value of $35 million in future tax benefits associated with the deductibility of intangibles from a prior acquisition of CamelBak. The purchase price, net of the previously mentioned tax asset, represents a resulting effective multiple of approximately 11x CamelBak’s expected calendar year 2015 EBITDA. Vista Outdoor intends to refinance the expected borrowings under its credit facilities with long-term debt financing. Pending such financing, Vista Outdoor has received a commitment to provide $50 million of secured debt financing from Morgan Stanley, which the company does not at this time intend to draw upon, but which provides additional flexibility pending completion of long-term financing. Absent transaction and transition costs, Vista Outdoor expects the acquisition to be accretive to Fiscal Year 2016 (FY16) earnings per share (EPS). Vista Outdoor will provide information relating to CamelBak’s impact on FY16 financial results as part of its first quarter earnings press release and webcast on August 13, 2015.
“CamelBak is enthusiastic about the opportunity to join the Vista Outdoor family of brands,” said Sally McCoy, CamelBak CEO. “Their successful platform will accelerate CamelBak’s growth as a global brand. Vista Outdoor supports our mission to continue to reinvent the way people hydrate and perform through innovative hydration products.”
Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Petaluma, California, CamelBak is the category creator for hands-free hydration and meets the needs of diverse consumers with a comprehensive product portfolio. CamelBak has an expansive network of marquee customers ranging from REI to Target. CamelBak has approximately 300 employees and will be integrated into the Outdoor Products segment of Vista Outdoor, increasing the scale of the business and reinforcing a culture focused on delivering high-quality, technologically advanced products.
CamelBak is a subsidiary company of Compass Diversified Holdings (NYSE: CODI), an owner of leading middle market businesses headquartered in Connecticut.
Morgan Stanley serves as transaction and financial advisor and Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP serves as legal advisor to Vista Outdoor in connection with the transaction.
About Vista Outdoor
Vista Outdoor is a leading global designer, manufacturer and marketer in the growing outdoor sports and recreation markets. The company operates in two segments, Shooting Sports and Outdoor Products, and has more than 30 well-recognized brands that provide consumers with a range of performance-driven, high-quality and innovative products in the ammunition, firearms and outdoor accessories categories. Vista Outdoor products are sold at leading retailers and distributors across North America and worldwide. Vista Outdoor is headquartered in Utah and has manufacturing operations and facilities in 10 U.S. States, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Canada along with international sales and sourcing operations in Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Asia. For news and information visit www.vistaoutdoor.com or follow us on Twitter @VistaOutdoorInc and Facebook at www.facebook.com/vistaoutdoor.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release, including statements regarding pending transaction with CamelBak Products, LLC, the expected future financial performance of CamelBak Products, LLC and the impact of that performance on Vista Outdoor, constitute forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words ‘believe’, ‘expect’, ‘anticipate’, ‘intend’, ‘aim’, ‘should’ and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements involve estimates and assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Vista Outdoor’s control, which could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations described in the forward-looking statements. Among those risks and uncertainties are: assumptions regarding demand for CamelBak’s products; failure of the closing conditions in the purchase agreement to be satisfied in a timely manner or at all; changes in interest rates or credit availability; anticipated benefits and cost savings from the transaction may not be fully realized or may take longer than expected to realize; the ability of Vista Outdoor to retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with customers, suppliers and other business partners of CamelBak; costs or difficulties related to the integration of the business following completion of the transaction; and changes in the business, industry or economic conditions or competitive environment. Vista Outdoor undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements. For further information on factors that could impact Vista Outdoor, and the statements contained herein, please refer to Vista Outdoor’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
E-mail: media.relations@vistaoutdoor.com E-mail: investor.relations@vistaoutdoor.com
Bryan Litz is a ballistician for Berger Bullets and Applied Ballistics. Bryan has authored a number of authoritative books on the subject of ballistics. His software, published by Applied Ballistics, can be found on a number of devices including the Kestrel Wind Meters by Nielsen Kellerman. The Applied Ballistics software and smart device app is considered an industry standard used by law enforcement and military units across the world.
In his 7th video, Bryan discusses bullet details for long range shooting advanced stability, focusing on the transonic zone of bullet flight.
MasterPiece Arms (MPA), manufacturers of the MPA BA Rifles, Chassis Systems, Defender Pistols and Carbines, Suppressors and MPAR Rifles, announces the availability of its new MPA BA SF Chassis – Side Folder, part of the MPA Bolt Action Chassis Systems product line. This unique chassis system provides a super precision platform for the Remington 700, Savage, Howa and a variety of custom actions. The MPA BA SF Chassis – Side Folder provides a world class chassis and v-bedding system that aids in increasing accuracy capabilities while adding tactical features to a rifle. It is the ideal platform to use for building a super precision rifle for long range competitions.
The v-bedding system is configured to allow for the ability to glass bed the action and straight section of the barrel, if desired. The MPA BA SF Chassis – Side Folder is machined on MPA’s CNC Horizontal Machining Centers to exacting tolerances from 6061 aluminum. The MPA produced buttstock includes an adjustable length of pull, recoil pad with height and cant adjustment, adjustable cheek riser and adjustable Monopod.
The Monopod locks into vertical position and has a quick-height locating method, extending up to 5” with fine adjustment capabilities. When not in use, the Monopod tucks into the frame of the buttstock. The Monopod will also work at 60 degrees for when a shooter needs that “in between” height of the buttstock of the rifle in acquiring the target.
The length of pull for the MPA BA SF Chassis – Side Folder is between 13.75” and 14.75”. It is coated in durable ceramic (Cerakote®) and is available in a variety of colors. The upper night vision bridge provides a seat for a Picatinny rail with a matching rail mounted to the bottom of the chassis. Both give the shooter plenty of rail space for a variety of enhancements.
The MPA BA SF Chassis comes with an A2 Pistol Grip, machined thumb notch, a handstop/barrier stop system (standard) and a built-in bubble level. User located side rails are available as an additional option. It also comes with a unique pocketing system that reduces weight and increases the structural integrity of the chassis.
The side folding assembly is released by depressing a small, low profile button and locks in place folded against the shooter’s left side of the chassis body. For left handed shooters, the assembly can be reversed to allow the stock to fold to the right, opposite the bolt handle. The cheek riser for the MPA BA SF Chassis – Side Folder is a low profile design, measuring only 1.5” wide.
The MPA Rotation Barricade stop has proven itself to be a “game changer” when used to engage barricade type states in long rang competitions, locking the rifle into position for rock solid positional performance.
MPA BA SF Chassis Side Folder Specifications:
For more information on MasterPiece Arms and their product line of pistols, bolt action rifles, carbines and suppressors, visit www.masterpiecearms.com.
The YUGO Zhukov-S Stock’s hinge block for fixed-stock Yugoslavian pattern rifles allows the user to replace their factory buttstock with this high quality folding polymer replacement. The hinge block mounts directly to the unique rear interface of Yugo pattern rifles with the included hardware providing a very robust fit.
A no-compromise folding stock for the modern AK, the Zhukov-S Stock folds to the right, has adjustable comb height for optics use via optional cheek risers, is adjustable for length-of-pull without tools, and features an angled rubber butt pad for easy shoulder transition and slip-free performance. An included one-point QD mount at the receiver, optional QD mounting points at the rear of the stock provides multiple sling attachment options.
Made in U.S.A.
FEATURES
For more information visit MAGPUL
There’s a number of shooters who own HK MP5s, MP5 conversions or their clones. We have at least a couple of readers who own MP5 conversions. For those of you fitting that description, Brugger & Thomet recently introduced a speed loader for the HK MP5 , Brugger Part No. BT-231230 and for their own B&T MP9, Brugger Part No. BT-231229, which takes the laboriousness out of loading 9mm stick magazines. If applicable, you may what the check these out. The following video illustrates…
Bryan Litz is a ballistician for Berger Bullets and Applied Ballistics. Bryan has authored a number of authoritative books on the subject of ballistics. His software, published by Applied Ballistics, can be found on a number of devices including the Kestrel Wind Meters by Nielsen Kellerman. The Applied Ballistics software and smart device app is considered an industry standard used by law enforcement and military units across the world.
In his sixth video, Bryan discusses bullet selection for long range shooting with big bore rifles. He provides details which my be inconsistent with what you’ve heard along your travels. What I like about Bryan’s approach is that he never abandons marksmanship fundamentals.
SIG USA has an update video of the their MCX. This carbine, has all of the trappings of an amazing weapon system. The marketing concept is brilliant and tangible evidence its designers used up some brain cells in the process. I can’t say enough about the MCX and this video reveals why…
Ruckersville, VA. – Ashbury Precision Ordnance (APO) Manufacturing is introducing a new model in the combat proven TACT3 Tactical Tripod product line. Now joining the TACT3’s GP, S, Q, QEL and SEL models is the new Accupoint. Developed for tactical field use, the TACT3 Accupoint allows fine independent vertical and horizontal movement control of tactical optics weighing up to ten pounds. The TACT3 Accupoint is amagnetic and compatible with all electro-optical devices incorporating a digital magnetic compass. There are more than 20,000 TACT3 Tactical Tripods now in use by the US Department of Defense around the world.
The Accupoint’s pan-tilt head provides ±65 degrees of vert
ical adjustment and affords 360 degrees of horizontal adjustment using large ergonomic 30mm control knobs. Fine tuning is controlled by two independent smaller knobs that provide approximately 6 degrees of movement in either direction per rotation. Optics are mounted to the Accupoint tripod head using a quick detachable base plate with a standard ¼-20 TPI bail ring screw.
The TACT3 Accupoint is manufactured from high strength aerospace grade aluminum alloys and is lightweight and compact. The multi-section mast is adjustable from 15 inches to 29 inches and can be detached from the tripod base and mated to an internally stored ground spike and used as a field monopod. The TACT3 tripod base features a terrain leveling gimbal and has legs that are wide and stable. Collapsed the tripod is 18.5 inches long and weighs 3.5 pounds. The TACT3 Accupoint is hard coat anodized, with a rugged dull gray non-reflective finish.
The TACT3 Accupoint provides users employing high magnification spotting scopes, night vision, thermal imaging devices and CCTV cameras a stable field platform that can be precisely pointed both horizontally and vertically in a lightweight compact package. Accupoint operational accessories include an Electro-Optical Rail Grabber Mount, Tactical Interface Mount, and Spotting Scope Accessory Rail.
For more information on APO’s complete line of TACT3 Tactical Tripods and other equipment visit the Ashbury Precision Ordnance Mfg. website.
It’s Friday and it’s time for our weekly shoot-the-shit. So, in keeping with all applicable rules, I’ve decide to use a bit of profanity; this approach is consistent with Louise Goodbread’s philosophy that describes profanity as a crutch for conversational cripples but also recognizes that an occasional “colorful” imprecation does a better job communicating certain conditions.
No, it’s not the 24 x 7 coverage of the Papal visit!
Having said that, what the fuck has happened to our banking system?
This week, I’ve been busier than a one legged man in an ass kicking contest – a condition that will undoubtedly persist through the weekend. With the conclusion of the DoD panel at the Global Identity Summit, I left the Tampa Convention Center and decided to stay in town to get a couple of things done. Rather than fuss around with driving, I decided to take mass transit to have a little lunch in town and pick up a couple of cigars for a friend. I look in my wallet and noticed there were no singles. I spotted a branch of a local bank and holding a ten dollar bill in my hand walked up to an open teller and asked if she could break the ten for me. She looked at me like I was some sort of miscreant and informed me that she could not break the ten because she needed to check my account and I was not a customer. I was seriously going to unload a verbal barrage on her, but realized that she was simply following rules. Here is the bank’s lost opportunity…
“ Yes sir, I’d be very happy to do that for you and I hope you’ll consider us for any future banking needs.”
Fucking elegant, and what an opportunity to show that the management team has an I.Q. – of any positive value. I wasn’t asking them to cash a “not on us check” I simply wanted to break my ten spot.
Those of you that travel already know that there is not a bank in the EU, or for that matter anywhere on the planet, that would deny a request for change; including foreign currency exchange. Not a fucking one!
So here’s what I’d like our readers to do next time a bank of any size needs a taxpayer bailout.
As always, feel free to share your thoughts!
Have a great weekend be safe and enjoy some quality time with your buds and family !
Considered the top airport innovation of 2015 by Airport Business Webzine, Happy Flow™ is Vision-Box®‘s groundbreaking approach to combining integrated airport management and a top-flight passenger experience. For the first time a passenger is able to cross an airport without interacting with authorities or showing a passport or boarding pass at all stages. Happy Flow™ is the first 100% self-service passenger flow system based on passenger-centric touch-points, identifying passengers via face biometrics across the entire journey.
As demonstrated in this video, the system consists of an enrollment kiosk and an e-gate that can control passenger access throughout an airport as well as the boarding ramp. In this video, you’ll observe Rui, self-enrolling. During this process, his passport is scanned, the passport e-chip is read and his fingerprints are compared against the TSA’s data base. Identification is established on two modes, comparing the facial scan to the e-chip’s image template and fingerprints validated through the TSA’s data base. Once the passenger’s identity is established, subsequent facial scans at various points along the airport function as access authorization all the way to the boarding ramp.
Identification International, Inc. (“i3”) addresses needs that range from large national deployments to small single office solutions. i3, a Blacksburg, VA headquartered company, has delivered leading edge products and solutions since its founding in 2004.
i3 was the first manufacturer to FBI certify a truly portable fingerprint live scan device. This achievement formed the basis of their digID product line and the many patents resulting from that development effort. Another example is the FPCheck fingerprinting service that has been designed with customer ease of use in mind.
The company’s digID series scanners are built from 85+% U.S. sourced parts and their Vize ID software is completely designed and written in Blacksburg. Research and development, manufacturing and support are based in their VA corporate headquarters.
At the 2015 Global Identity Summit, in Tampa, i3 Identification International demonstrated their Biometric Badging and Enrollment System. This is a field deployable package weighing a mere 43 pounds and supports biometric multimodal identification and enrollment. The system supports facial, iris, voice, writing and speech modalities. It is GPS enabled so enrollment files can be georeferenced. On the back end, the company’s BBES supports a TELCO RJ-11 interface but the company is capable of developing any communications interface required by their customer.
This is precisely the capability needed to process the tsunami wave of refugees entering the EU from North Africa and the Middle East. Although original documents are missing, damaged or forged, collecting multiple modalities is essential to refugee safety and host country security.
This video provides the reader with a high level overview.
For additional information and contact details visit www.idintl.com
Duluth, Ga. (September 2015) – Bergara USA, a division of BPI Outdoors, announced today that it has completed its custom build tactical rifle for the Cobb County Police Department S.W.A.T. unit. Cobb is an Atlanta metro county that includes a large percentage of the city’s north western suburbs. According to company officials, the rifle is based on its “Heavy Tactical” model and includes various customized features and components. The rifles are also equipped with the Dead Air™ Keymount™ combination muzzle brake and suppressor mount, specially designed for the attachment of the Dead Air™ Sandman™ suppressor, also manufactured by BPI Outdoors.
The Bergara “Cobb S.W.A.T. Rifle” specifications
For more information on Bergara USA, visit http://www.bergarausa.com.
All agencies of the federal government have one or more programs designed to engage small businesses in their procurement processes. USSOCOM, for example, has a TILO office that will work with small businesses to meet SOCOM requirements. This contact may, at some point during the relationship, require that your small business submit a classified proposal; this is a complicated process and many small businesses lack the resources to staff that specialized function in-house. If that is your situation, I have the following recommendation…
I recently had the opportunity to meet Tom Giroir, retired USAF, Owner and CEO of TMG International Consulting. His organization consults with businesses, of all sizes, to guide them through the complexities of preparing and delivering a classified proposal. Mr. Giroir has extensive military and intelligence community experience.
Contact Information
Dr. Tommy Phan demonstrates Iritech’s Inc. new dual-eye Iris camera. This camera will capture both Iris details and is usable for enrollment as well as identity confirmation making this an ideal tool for physical access control.
Law enforcement at local and national levels have been using biometrics for over 100 years, the fingerprint. That one modality has seen significant advances, over the years, in the techniques of collection, processing, analysis and spoof detection. Today, thanks to the work of individuals like Dr. Phan from Iritech Inc., law enforcement, DoD, national security and humanitarian organizations are enrolling individuals using multiple modalities making identity far more precise than at any time in human history. These technologies, which in its early stages found fertile ground in governments and military organizations, are now moving into the commercial space. In 2015, the technology needed to support identity requirements is now mature, faster, more compact, simpler to use and cheaper.
The march to implement biometric technologies in national security and at the enterprise continues. In two short years, consumers will see biometrics playing a major role in access control both at the physical and logical level. Modalities like fingerprints, iris, facial recognition and DNA will be incorporated in combinations to establish individual identity and secure data in government and business.
Day one consisted of three hours of training, conducted by industry experts, on topics like biometrics, biographics and smart card technologies. This is one event that mainstream media should look to for a solid foundation on issues and technologies. The Global Identity Summit (GIS) is an annual event held in Tampa, FL
Today’s event was followed by a Meet and Greet in the Exhibition Hall. Great event!
AFCEA is a 501(c)(6) non-profit international organization that serves its members by providing a forum for the ethical exchange of information. AFCEA is dedicated to increasing knowledge through the exploration of issues relevant to its members in information technology, communications, and electronics for the defense, homeland security and intelligence communities.
FEATURES
At DSEi 2015, Finmeccanica – Selex ES introduced its new SWave™-family Software Defined Radio (SDR), named the Hand Held Evolution (HH-E). Designed to bring commercial smartphone size and weight characteristics to military-qualified battlefield radio equipment, the SWave™ HH-E weighs less than 550 grams and measures just 155mm x 70mm x 40mm.
The HH-E is the latest in Selex ES’s SWave™ software defined radio family, which offer reconfigurable secure data and wideband networking capabilities in addition to standard voice communication. The HH-E is compliant to the US SCA 2.2.2 and European ESSOR architectures. This means that the radios can be upgraded to new waveforms as they become available. The radio has been launched with the Soldier Broadband Waveform (SBW). A narrow-band waveform will be available early 2016.
The Selex ES SWave™ SDR family includes the latest single channel hand-held SDR (HH-E), a 2 channel manpack SDR (MB1), a 2 channel vehicular SDR (VB1) and a 4 channel vehicular SDR (VQ1). An earlier variant of the SWave™ HH-E, the SWave™ HH, is currently in-service with the Italian Army. A naval SWave™ SDR product is also in development.
Over the last few years, I’ve had the opportunity to review First-Light USA products and was consistently impressed with their quality and function. You can read one here or read them all by searching on First-Light USA. In an enormously competitive space, First-Light USA offerings solve some very challenging lighting problems with innovation. This video reintroduces the company…
Silencerco Weapons Research (SWR) first offering, marketed as The Radius, is a rail mounted rangefinder capable of ranging out to a mile on a reflective target and attaching to a Picatinny rail in any orientation.
When we first decided to create our own rail mounted rangefinder, we wanted something that would allow us to range out to incredible distances reliably without having to come off of the gun and without breaking the bank – and that’s exactly what we’re delivering to you.
Additional features of the Radius include a user configurable display, continuous ranging for 12 hours with (2) CR123 batteries, and resistance to even extreme elements.
M.S.R.P. $999 Pre-Orders Being Accepted
SPECIFICATIONS
FEATURES
At this year’s DSei, Beretta unveiled its newest vision for a Designated Marksman Rifle. The ARX200 chambered in 7.62×51 features a free floated 16 inch barrel on an aluminum reinforced polymer chassis.
Operating controls are all ambidextrous and include bolt release, magazine release and safety. The ARX200 also features a folding and collapsible stock with adjustable cheek rise.
Absent from the design is the quick change barrel assembly found on the ARX160. The charging handle is interchangeable from side to side but ejection is fixed on the left side.
Ergonomics is very similar to the company’s ARX160 but parts commonality is limited to the trigger subassembly.
Although not officially designated as a DMR by Beretta the ARX looks pretty DMRish to us with its stated 1.5 MOA performance at 100m.
British Medical Services Brings A Higher Level Of Realism
Rheinmetall Air Defense Systems High Energy Laser
French Defense Contractor ACOEM offers a shot detection system integrated into the company’s PILAR technology. PILAR is available in vehicle mounted, air mounted and dismounted soldier configurations. The PILAR technology is marketed under the Metravib brand.
MasterPiece Arms (MPA), announced its new MPA20DMG 9mm Carbine from the DMG (Defender, Machined, Grip) Series. The 9mm Carbine is based on the 930DMG Pistol but comes in a full-size frame with a folding stock and features a lower receiver machined from aerospace-grade aluminum.
“I can’t help but get excited when I think about this gun. We put a lot of thought into designing it and feel it’s perfect for people that need a reliable, accurate and high-capacity home defense carbine,” said Phil Cashin, owner of MasterPiece Arms.
The carbine comes with many next-gen features. The lightweight lower receiver is machined from
aerospace-grade aluminum, giving it a lean and mean look and feel. The free floating handguard is produced from an aluminum extrusion with no fasteners and has an inner diameter of 1.570 inches. The gun comes standard in a “Burnt Bronze” Cerakote finish, giving it a toughness that allows it to handle any abuse or punishment that may come its way. It is also available in Black, Flat Dark Earth, Gunmetal and Tungsten. It has an ergonomically designed grip system incorporating a “Solidworks” designed profile that allows for the use of standard GLOCK-style magazines, as well as a low profile magazine release and “Decal Grips” grip panels that provide the shooter’s hands with a secure hold on the gun. The MPA20DMG Carbine features a folding stock with an adjustable length of pull. This carbine is further equipped with adjustable front and rear sights, side cocker, scope mount, barrel extension, hammer with disconnect (plus original hammer) and comes in an MPA polymer case.
For more information on MasterPiece Arms and their product line of pistols, bolt action rifles, carbines and suppressors, visit http://www.masterpiecearms.com.
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Annual Data | Ford Motor Company |
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It’s Friday, we’ve made it through another week and the weekend is upon us, so it is time for our weekly shoot-the-shit. All shoot-the-shit rules apply; by the way, some of you noticed that on 9/11 we did not publish a shoot-the-shit topic. This was a conscious decision to honor those who lost there lives on 9/11. So, without further ado, we announce our shoot-the-shit topic for today….
Why is manufacturing leaving the country?
Ans: Is not our corporate tax rates.
The profit and loss statement above, belongs to Ford Motor Company. It is a condensed version for clarity but all figures are actual and stated in thousands.
Let’s take a look at Ford’s effective tax rate, which is calculated by dividing the income tax expense of $1.156 billion by the company’s income before tax of $4.342 billion and multiplying by 100. So let’s do that
1.156 / 4.342 = 26.62% This is Ford’s effective tax rate for 2014
To put things into perspective let’s compare Ford’s tax picture with a Hypothetical American dual earner household with two children and a home interest deduction. So, here we go…
Gross Income: $ 350,000 Deductions: $43,000 The taxpayer’s tax liability is $74,651.
Our citizen tax payer’s average or effective tax rate is 21% compared to Ford’s 26.62%. I think it’s safe to say that Ford is not having its brains bashed in, sufficiently, to chase them out of the country? So, why are they building plants in Mexico and not in the United States?
To answer this question revisit Ford’s Profit and Loss Statement. Ford’s Total Revenue for 2014 was $144.077 Billion and the company’s Cost of Revenue was $126.215 Billion or 87.6% of Total Revenue. Now let’s take a look at Cost of Revenue. This is a number that consists of a variety of expenses that includes, direct labor, the parts and materials needed to build cars and other expenses that are directly attributable to production.
If by moving to Mexico, Ford can lower the Cost of Revenue from 87.6% to say 77.6% through cheap labor and purchasing cheaper parts from local manufacturers, Ford Motor can reduce its cost of revenue from $126.215 Billion to $111. 804 Billion, a savings of $14.346 Billion.
Earlier, we said that Ford’s effective tax rate is 26.62%, now let’s assume we enact tax laws capping Ford’s effective tax rate to 20%; that’s a savings of 6.62% on Income before taxes of $4.342 Billion, which translates to a savings of $287.440 Million
Moving to Mexico achieves a $14.346 Billion savings vs. a $287.440 Million tax savings. Obviously Ford’s desire is to do as much of its manufacturing outside the United States and see a lower corporate tax rate; however, lowering the corporate tax rate alone does very little to entice the company to build plants in the United States. A reduction in corporate and individual tax rates is ALWAYS highly desirable, but is it the driving reason manufacturers are leaving the country? In most cases the answer is No! Let us know what you think!
Have a safe weekend. Get out to the range or do something with your buds and family!
The BATTERYCLIP provides a highly-functional way to organize, store, and transport commonly-used batteries. A familiar magazine-style design keeps batteries protected from damage, dirt, and debris, while assuring they do not accidentally discharge. Because everything runs on batteries, it is very common to have a handful of extras tossed in a bag or loose in a pouch. This makes them hard to find in the dark, while digging through a pack and increases the danger of them overheating by coming into contact with a conductive surface. Designed by a veteran sound engineer for onsite cameramen, the BATTERYCLIP is a safe and convenient method to keep batteries on hand.
The BATTERYCLIP uses a spring-loaded follower to push fresh batteries to the top of the device where they are easily deployed by pushing out with your thumb. A “round count” indicator on the back of the BATTERYCLIP immediately shows how many are left. The smooth, snag-free exterior surface allows it to easily be slid in and out of pockets, pouches, and packs.
Batteryclips are available for AA, CR123A and 9V batteries M.S.R.P. $19.95
PerSys has introduced a dressing that I’ll simply describe as fast-food for treatment of an open chest wound. It address all of the important issues encountered by anyone attempting to deal with an open chest wound in less than optimal conditions. Add the S.O.S to your medical kit!
PerSys S.O.S., is an advanced occlusive dressing developed for the treatment of open chest wounds and for the prevention of tension pneumothorax.
The PerSys S.O.S. utilizes an ultra-strong, medical-grade hydrogel adhesive which clings to skin despite blood, sweat, hair, sand, or water. The dressing’s four vent design allows for one-way airflow out of the chest cavity during exhalation, while preventing airflow into the chest cavity during inhalation.
Unlike more complicated “valve systems” which are prone to clogging, the rugged simplicity of the S.O.S. stands up to water, sand, mud, debris, and bodily fluids. The dressing’s compact packaging and 3 year shelf life make it an ideal component of any kit.
For product specifications and purchasing information, visit www.ps-med.com
The PKM is a truly formidable weapon, designed by Kalashnikov. It is a belt fed squad level machine gun chambered in the 7.62x54R. In addition to its extreme reliability and broad environmental operating range, what makes this weapon so desirable is its ability to serve double duty as close support anti-aircraft weapon system. There are several variants; the Bulgarian MG-1M is but one. Training on the PKM should be mandatory for all SOF personnel.
Specifications:
Only 100 of the MPA935DMG-LTD will be produced!
MasterPiece Arms (MPA), manufacturers of the MPA BA Rifles, Chassis Systems, Defender Pistols and Carbines, Suppressors and MPAR Rifles, proudly announces a limited edition run of the MPA935DMG-LTD from the new DMG (Defender, Machined Grip) Series. There will only be 100 of the limited edition mini 9 pistols produced, each engraved with “x of 100” on its side. This 9mm pistol is based on the 930sst, but includes a fully machined aluminum pistol grip and lower receiver. The grip is MPA’s most ergonomically designed grip system, incorporating a “Solidworks” designed profile, which allows for the use of a standard GLOCK style magazine. It also includes a low profile magazine release and “Decal Grip” grip panels.
The 935DMG-LTDis chambered in 9mm, includes the extended hand guard assembly, low-profile barrel extension and 7″ barrel length. This pistol also includes a built-in hole pattern on the butt-end of the receiver that accepts MPA’s side folding stock, allowing the owner to convert it into a short barrel rifle (SBR). An SBR is an NFA item and requires a Form 1 to be submitted to the NFA.
The 935DMG-LTD all-aluminum lower receiver is machined from aircraft grade aluminum – providing cleaner lines and significantly reducing the overall weight of the pistol verses MPA’s standard steel receivers. Also included is a QD Sling Swivel Flush Cup and mounting holes for a fixed rear stock, SB15 Brace or Side Folding Stock Assembly.
The MPA935DMG-LTD comes standard in MPA Green, a unique hybrid color created by MPA. The pistol also includes additional upgraded features, such as adjustable front and rear sights, a single point sling, laser engraving designating this model as a Limited Edition, E-Clip tool, letter of authenticity, muzzle brake and Cerakote barrel extension. The pistol is further equipped with a side cocker, scope mount, hammer with disconnect (plus original hammer) and comes in an MPA polymer case.
MPA935DMG Specifications:
For more information on MasterPiece Arms and their product line of pistols, bolt action rifles, carbines and suppressors, visit www.masterpiecearms.com.
Noveske Rifleworks, announced the limited release of a collaboration rifle with OAF Nation. OAF Nation is a veteran advocacy group that often laces important social and political issues (along with current events) with their own style of irreverent humor.
“We’ve wanted to do a collab with an AR company for a while now but there were so many out there that just weren’t the right fit for us. On top of that we would never put our seal on or endorse a product that we haven’t used ourselves. When the opportunity arose for a collab with Noveske I was overwhelmed with pride. I ran a Noveske as a PMC in environments from Shash Darak to Wardak, Afghanistan. Out of all the weapons I put rounds through downrange, the Noveske was the ONLY platform that never once failed on me or the men on my project. Rain, sleet, snow, or sand; it was always ready to go. Could not be happier with how this AR came out and really grateful to Mike Aland and Noveske for making this happen.” Said the founder of OAF Nation.
“Upon hearing about his experiences with our product, it became a special project. Noveske has a rich history of providing rifles to those in harms way, and we take great pride in the reliability and accuracy of our rifles.” Added Mike Aland, CMO at Noveske.
The companies have also teamed to launch a video that captures the rifle in an interesting shooting scenario with all of the hallmarks that make up a Noveske rifle combined with some of the sensibilities of the OAF Nation.
The rifle, available in three colors, goes on sale today at noveske.com. Featuring our Gen 1 forged receiver set, 14.5” pinned and welded skinny barrel, and 13.5” NSR hand guard, OAF engraving, and will also ship in a California compliant configuration.
MSRP: $1995
DDM4 MK12 Typhon™
DDM4 V11 Typhon™ 
The Daniel Defense MK12—with an 18-inch stainless steel barrel and rifle length gas system, and the V11—featuring a 16-inch Chrome Moly Vanadium Steel barrel and mid length gas system, is now being offered in the Kryptec Typhon™ finish. The water-transfer printing process (also known as hydro-graphics) of this finish makes for a durable, uniform coating that holds up to and resists even the harshest environments.
Kryptek™ utilizes a multi-directional design to effectively conceal in a multitude of terrains that have lateral or vertical flows. The bi-level layering of the patterns incorporates background transitional shading and sharp random geometrical foregrounds to create a three-dimensional effect, ensuring the utmost in concealment at both close and long ranges. These components, combined with colorations selected and matched based on input from testing and observations from operators in the field, make Kryptek patterns optimal for many different situations.
Montreal, Quebec (September 14, 2015)- Revision Military, a world leader in integrated, purpose-built soldier solutions, is establishing a new UK facility not only to support the ongoing delivery of the VIRTUS Program UK Head Sub-System (the Cobra Plus protective head system) but also to facilitate closer communications and support for Revision’s UK and European customers. With Revision’s industry-leading integrated soldier systems capabilities, which now include power provision and management, the Company believes there are numerous opportunities that will benefit from this local resource support. The facility, which is scheduled to open in Q4, 2015, will be located in Bristol near the Ministry of Defense’s Abbey Wood site that houses the Defence Equipment and Support procurement organization.
Jonathan Blanshay, CEO, Revision Military commented, “We are extremely proud that the Cobra Plus Head System has been selected as the new helmet and facial protection system for UK soldiers. We believe in supporting not only this program, but also other as yet unidentified soldier-systems initiatives with this commitment to establish Revision Military (UK) Ltd. Proximity to DE&S will allow for closer working relationships in the quest to provide the very best protective gear for UK troops.” He continued, “I am also very pleased to announce the appointment of Brigadier (Retired) Peter Rafferty to the position of President, Revision Military (UK) Ltd.”
Brigadier (Retired) Rafferty served over 30 years as a Regular Infantry Officer holding commissions in the King’s Regiment and latterly the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment. His deployments include the Falkland Islands, Northern Ireland, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Bosnia, Kosovo, Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, Tajikistan and Libya. Also an acquisition professional, he led the Dismounted Close Combat Integrated Project Team and the Personal Combat Equipment Project Team. He was Head of the Individual Capability Group responsible for infantry equipment program delivery and conceived and led the development of the Integrated Soldier System Executive.
On the announcement of his appointment Peter said: “I am delighted to have joined Revision Military to lead our efforts here in the UK and beyond. Revision’s track record of putting the soldier first is second to none, delivering world class personal protective equipment of the highest quality. The Company is passionately committed to our soldiers, their survivability and their success if defense of our nations. The vision, values and ethos of the Company are instantly recognizable to me as a retired Infantry soldier. I am proud to be part of Revision’s continuing mission to ensure that our soldiers get the very best equipment, as they have the right to expect.”
Above: The selection of Revision’s Batlskin Cobra Plus Head System for UK troops, was instrumental in Revision’s decision to open the UK Facility in Bristol in late 2015.
Left: Brigadier (Retired) Rafferty has been appointed President of Revision Military (UK) Ltd., a new facility located in Bristol that is scheduled to open in Q4, 2015.
Bryan Litz is a ballistician for Berger Bullets and Applied Ballistics. Bryan has authored a number of authoritative books on the subject of ballistics. His software, published by Applied Ballistics, can be found on a number of devices including the Kestrel Wind Meters by Nielsen Kellerman. The Applied Ballistics software and smart device app is considered an industry standard used by law enforcement and military units across the world.
In his fifth video, Bryan discusses hand loading for long range precision shooting. He address goals and procedures that will improve your results.
South San Francisco, Calif. (September 2015) – American Technologies Network Corp. (ATN), innovators of advanced night vision, thermal imaging and digital Smart HD optics for hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, military and law enforcement, adds four new models into its ThOR Thermal Weapons Sight System product line for 2015: the ThOR336 1-4X, the ThOR336 4-16x, the ThOR-640 1-8X and the ThOR-640 2.25-18X.
The new ThOR Thermal Weapons Sight models have been designed to meet the needs of law enforcement and security, as well as hog and predator hunters, operating in darkness. The ThOR uses the latest in miniature thermal sensor and OLED display technology to cut through the darkness and provide superior thermal vision at an affordable price. The ThOR has a digital menu so individuals can quickly customize it to their preferences. It has an E-Zoom that allows one to digitally magnify the target and five reticle patterns to choose from so one can say goodbye to a black reticle on a black and white target. Entirely designed and manufactured in the USA, the ThOR comes with a three year warranty on the entire system and a 10-year warranty on the thermal core.
ThOR Thermal Weapon Sight Specifications:
ThOR336 1-4X ThOR336 4-16X ThOR-640 1-8X ThOR-640 2.25-18X
Optical Magnification: 1.2x 4x 1x 2.25x
E-Zoom: 2.4x, 4.8x 8x, 16x 2x, 4x, 8x 4.5x, 9x, 18x
Frame Rate: 60 Hz 60Hz 30Hz 30Hz
Weight: 1.5 lbs. 1.87 lbs. 1.5 lbs. 1.87 lbs.
Distance of Human Detection
(w/o Zoom): 625m 1500m 625m 1500m
Distance of Human Recognition: 280m 600m 280m 600m
Distance of Human Identification: 170m 360m 170m 360m
MAP: $2,999 $4,499 $4,999 $6,299
The new ThOR models each include three batteries, a lens tissue, warranty card and instruction manual. The ThOR Thermal Weapon Sight comes in a hard, portable MIL-SPEC storage case.
For more information on American Technologies Network Corp, visit www.atncorp.com.
Advanced Edged Weapons with Steve Tarani
$450 | October 3-4, 2015 | Epping, NH
Take advantage of this extremely rare opportunity to learn from the experience and knowledge of a protective services professional from deep within the US Defense Intelligence community. Former federal employee (CIA), Protective Programs defensive tactics subject matter expert and world-class educator Steve Tarani steps outside “the Agency” to provide you with this vetted, unarmed, easy-to-follow Advanced Edged Weapons training. Gain the opportunity to develop or hone your instinctive reflexes to handle an overwhelming physical threat. This is NOT martial arts. This is NOT “knife fighting.” This IS a professional Protective Services approach to doing what it takes to get out from between a rock and a hard place using a knife.
Sign up now »
Self Defense for Women
$125 | October 11, 2015 | Epping, NH
Unfortunately, women are too often victimized and attacked by predatory assailants. This four-hour course focuses on specific techniques to keep women safe and to effectively respond to an assault. Instructors discuss threat avoidance and situational awareness techniques, and train students on the use of firearms, chemical agents (such as mace or pepper spray), and other defensive tools. Remaining alert and being prepared are the keys to survival.
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Utah Non-Resident CCW Course with Bruce Blessington
$150 | November 15, 2015 | Epping, NH
This course enables students to fulfill the non-resident CCW application requirements in Utah, 30 plus states recognize the Utah CCW, thus allowing legal carry as a non-resident when visiting those states. In this course, you will get a review of handgun safety and an overview of firearms laws in Utah, as well as selected Federal statutes. We provide application forms, finger print cards, photography, and assistance with filing.
Sign up now »
Fourteen years ago today, I was in California preparing to leave on a business trip when I watched in awe the collapse of the World Trade Center Towers. On that day, more than 3,000 wonderful loving people lost their lives at the hands of 19 men who had absolutely nothing to contribute to humanity. I will never forget that lump in my stomach and subsequent anger as more information was revealed.
Today, we honor the men, women and children who perished on that horrific day. We honor the passengers on Flight 93 who displayed amazing courage as they fought rather than subject. Their courage prevented what was surely destined to be an attack on our nation’s capital. We also remember those who lost their lives at the Pentagon on this fateful day.
All of these men and women, along with all those who risk life and limb in pursuit of the Global War on Terror, hold a very special place in our nation’s history and in our hearts.
We remember you and we will never forget!
Magpul Industries has started shipping the highly anticipated Hunter 700 rifle stock for the Remington 700 Short Action. M.S.R.P. $259.95
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SilencerCo Weapons Research brings cutting edge technology within reach. For too long, technological advances in outdoor shooting sports have been priced out of the attainable range of most citizens, kept a secret, or the public has simply been told that they can’t have them. SWR not only believes that you deserve better – we plan to show it.
Cool video but I would skip the pointy Fence Climbers…
FOG HORN 