SIG SAUER has announces its Legion Series pistols. The SIG P226 and P229 are the two most prevalent SIG SAUER platforms in service use today. SIG has upgraded these masterful firearms with a series of enhancements based on the needs and wants of the most elite professionals.
Harrisburg, Pa. (October 2015) – IWI US, Inc., a subsidiary of Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) Ltd., is pleased to announce that two civilian TAVOR® Operators Courses are currently scheduled to be held Oct. 24 – 25 and Nov. 7-8, 2015 at ACADEMI in Moyock, North Carolina.
The course will help students of any level develop a solid foundation of shooting the TAVOR® platform. Experienced carbine shooters will find the course beneficial as a first step into transitioning from their current platforms into the TAVOR® weapon system. The course will teach students to exploit the system’s advantages over conventional rifles.
The ACADEMI instructors will provide each student with training to employ the bullpup system safely and effectively. For those students that bring a handgun, the course of instruction will also include transitions from rifle to handgun and handgun to rifle. The course includes live-fire exercises that will challenge the students with a variety of shooting situations and cement the skills previously learned in the classroom. To register for either date, please visit the ACADEMI website. Each course costs $450 and includes a certificate of completion. TAVOR®s are available for use upon request at no charge.
About IWI US, Inc. IWI US, Inc. is the USA-based subsidiary of Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) Ltd. of Ramat Hasharon, Israel and a member of the SK Group, a leading defense and security group of companies that operate in the global Defense and Law Enforcement markets. The IWI US line of products includes several configurations of the TAVOR® SAR, Jericho® 941™ pistol, UZI® pistol and Galil ACE® rifles and pistols. For more information, visit IWI US Inc. at our website- http://www.iwi.us, on Facebook- http://www.facebook.com/IWIUS or contact us via e-mail- marketing@iwi.us.
About ACADEMI ACADEMI is an elite security services provider with expertise forged in the world’s most challenging environments. ACADEMI’s world-class network of security professionals design customized solutions for clients to help them navigate the complex, sensitive environments in which they operate. ACADEMI has become a trusted partner to both government and commercial clients by providing solutions that foster a smarter, safer security approach based on knowledge and training.
The Magpul Enhanced AR Magazine Release is machined from Mil-Spec anodized aluminum. This two piece enhancement gives the shooter a larger contact surface for positive activation. The Enhanced Magazine Release is compatible with most 5.56mm and 7.62mm pattern receivers.
M.S.R.P. $19.95
The bottom line here is that we really like this holster. It’s comfortable almost to the point of becoming unnoticeable, excellent degree of adjustment and an unmatched level of manufacturer commitment and support.
Read my review…
The BATTERYCLIP by BATTERYCLIP.com is probably one of the more useful doo dads to come along. Battery storage has always been a pain in the neck; they invariably end up at the bottom of your pack or rolling around somewhere on the floor. Well, in a vulgar display of Yankee ingenuity, BATTERYCLIP came up with a storage mechanism that mimics a weapon magazine. The company makes a 9v battery model with a capacity of 8 batteries, CR123A model holding 8 batteries and a AA model that holds 10 AA batteries. BATTERYCLIPS can de carried in a pack or a standard rifle magazine pouch
The BATTERYCLIP is patented and made in the U.S.A. the unit represented in the picture survived a 4 foot drop on concrete with no signs of stress. Pick some up at $19.99 – $24.95 you won’t want to go without a few.
You can purchase the BATTERCLIP from TNVC or directly from BATTERYCLIP.com
The weekend is here and it’s time for our weekly shoot-the-shit topic. New readers note that with any shoot-the-shit you can make unsupported assertions, use profanity, insult anyone you wish or change the subject altogether, all of which is free of charge. It doesn’t get any better than this!
Folks, there are so many cluster fucks unraveling domestically and around the world that it was damned near impossible to select a topic. Our first thought was to shoot-the-shit about Layne Bryant’s Cacique’ line of intimate apparel for the full figured woman but gave up on that. However, the Russian participation in Syria seems to be getting a great deal of bandwidth. So, we decided to take our shot at it.
This situation is not a ball game where each side cheers for their team. This is a global issue with the potential for profound ramifications and you can’t solve problems without looking at all aspects of the problem. Having said that, let’s identify the catalysts
Like most conflicts, there is a huge economic component to the Russian calculus. Russians have three large customers at stake: Iran, Iraq and Syria. Less significant is Lebanon, Palestine and Libya. Should Syria fall to either ISIL or moderate Sunni elements, Russia would loss some vitally important resources. First, the Russian Black Sea Fleet is completely surrounded by NATO member countries and Russia would potentially loose access to the Bosphorus Straights; thereby, the Mediterranean. So Russia needs a friendly sea port on the Mediterranean which it gets from Syria. A Russian friendly Syria creates a land route for Russian products, military equipment, etc. to Syria, Iraq, Iran and other points in the Middle East. This access is worth billions of dollars to the Russian economy.
It is highly unlikely that Vladimir Putin sees himself sunbathing in Speedos with al-Assad while sipping a little Arak. However, it’s easy to see what is driving Russian actions in Syria. Russia’s risk is that their actions will consolidate ISIL and moderate Sunni factions. This is going to be one to watch…
Have a great weekend readers. If you’re on the East Coast stay out of the rain. If the sun is shinning where you are get to the range or do something with your buds and family!
Daniel Defense has developed a ground-breaking platform engineered from muzzle to buttstock for the 7.62x51mm NATO cartridge. The DD5’s performance-driven design departs from tradition to set a new standard in the 308 platform.
Innovative 4-bolt connection system securely attaches free-floating CHF barrel and KeyMod handguard mounts securely to upper without a barrel nut
Bolt and carrier designed with oversized cam pin, enhanced extractor geometry, and dual ejectors
Ambidextrous safety selector, magazine catch, bolt release, and configurable modular charging handle
Lower receiver features integral oversized trigger guard and flared magazine well for SR-25 type magazines.
Geissele SSA 2-Stage Trigger with its smooth 2.5 lb. take-up and clean 2 lb. break.
Specifications
Duluth, Ga. (October 2015) – Bergara USA, a division of BPI Outdoors, has delivered the Bergara custom tactical rifles to the Cobb County Police Department S.W.A.T. unit. The contract was secured in May of this year and Bergara began the process of designing and building the custom rifles based on the Cobb County S.W.A.T. unit’s requirements.
Officers were eager to get the new rifles out on the range for testing and training and were not disappointed with the performance and accuracy of their new Bergara S.W.A.T. rifles.
Originally based on the Bergara Heavy Tactical rifle, the Cobb County rifles included many customized features and components. The Bergara 22″ 416 stainless steel barrel in .308 Winchester has a 1:10 twist with a # 6 contour. Bergara barrels have long been considered the most accurate and technically-advanced barrels by top-tier gun manufacturers, competitive shooters and professionals who rely on Bergara’s performance in some of the most demanding scenarios. All of the rifles were fitted with Dead Air™ Armament’s Keymount™ Muzzle Brake.
The Bergara Premium action is made from 4140 CrMo steel and drilled and tapped for 8-40 scope mount threads with Talley 20 MOA Rail for the Nightforce NXS 5.5-22.50 scope and Nightforce Ultralight rings. The fluted bolt body eliminates extra weight and provides a consistent and smooth movement. The floating bolt head ensures a proper alignment in the receiver. The Timney 517 trigger allows for more precise finger positioning and control. The Cobb County rifles are built on an Accuracy International AX chassis stock with Custom Cerakote Finish
The Bergara “Cobb S.W.A.T. Rifle” features are as follows:
For more information on Bergara USA, visit www.bergarausa.com.
Lyons Falls, NY: Otis Technology is offering a buy-one-get-one-free promotion on its Ripcord® product line.
There are several ways consumer can take advantage of this BOGO. By purchasing through the Otis website, consumers can purchase any size Ripcord and get any size free, up to four free Ripcords. This promotion ran August 1 – September 30 and will be offered again December 1-31, 2015.
Beginning October 1 and running through December 31, 2015, Otis is offering a mail-in rebate for its BOGO promotion. Consumers can purchase a Ripcord through any authorized retailer, either in-store or online, and complete the mail-in rebate form to receive a free Ripcord (.223 cal, .30 cal, 9mm, .45 cal or 12 ga).
“We introduced the Ripcord two years ago and have continuously expanded the selection. Sales have been overwhelmingly positive and we are continuing to encourage consumers to make the switch to the Ripcord, the best one-pass cleaning tool in the market today. This high-value promotion is another way to do that,” states Len Nelson, VP of Sales & Marketing for Otis Technology.
Customers who purchase between the qualifying dates and mail in the required information by January 15, 2014 are eligible for the rebate. The rebate forms can be found at stores that carry Otis products or online at www.otistec.com.
For more information on the Ripcord, please visit otistec.com/ripcord.
Otis Technology is known for manufacturing the most advanced gun cleaning systems 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.
The recent hack of the Office of Personnel Management is far worse than originally thought. Many of our readers have a credible risk of exposure and unfortunately the picture is worse than initially reported. OPM officials have recently updated their initial assessment of 1.1 million fingerprints exposed to 5.6 million, a fivefold increase. The hack compromised social security numbers, BI files and complete personnel files.
Finger prints are problematic in that they’re biometric data. You can change passwords, request new account numbers and subscribe to credit monitoring and protection, but biometric data is a very different story. Finger prints are used to access physical facilities, they are used in generating encryption keys and even provide fast track logins to secure systems. Furthermore, since they are part of a file that is connected to college transcripts, birth certificates, passports and other official documents they uniquely link to the individuals identity.
If you’ve been impacted by, or think you’ve been impacted, by the OPM hack, I advise you to contact the OPM to determine the extent of your exposure and evaluate options to mitigate your risks.
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| Anderson Mfg. AR-15 Stripped Lower Receiver | Tactical Machining AR-15 Stripped Lower Receiver | Aero Precision AR-15/M16 Gen 2 Black Stripped Lower | |||||||
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| Brownells AR-15/M16 Carbine Mil-Spec Buttstock Kit |
Brownells AR-15/M16 MOE Rifle Stock Kit |
Brownells AR-15/M16 CTR Stock Kit |
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Daniel Defense AR-15 5.56 Chrome Bolt Carrier Group | Brownells AR-15 Stripped Bolt Carrier |
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| Anderson Mgf AR-15/M16 5.56 16″ M4 Barrel | DPMS AR-15/M16 5.56 Barrel Assemblies |
Faxon Firearms AR-15/M16 5.56 Lightweight Barrels | ||||||
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$124.99 – $189.00 |
MPA Magazine Extender for AICS and Accurate Mags extends 10-rd mag capacity to 14-rds.
Comer, Ga. – (September 2015) –MasterPiece Arms (MPA), manufacturers of the MPA BA Rifles, Chassis Systems, Defender Pistols and Carbines, Suppressors and MPAR Rifles, announces the MPA Magazine Extender for AICS and Accurate Magazine’s 10-round single-feed box magazines. The MPA Magazine Extender increases the capacity of these 10-round magazines to 14-rounds.
The MPA Magazine Extender is made from 6061 aluminum and produced in the U.S.A. The MPA Magazine Extender fits 308 Box Magazines produced by Accurate Mag and AICS. It is easy to install by removing the existing floor plate and securing the MPA Magazine Extender with the 6-32 set screw (included). MSRP is $35.99.
“The addition of this magazine extender in the MasterPiece Arms product line up is a result of feedback from the long range shooting community and delivering to them quality American made accessories,” said Phil Cashin, owner of MasterPiece Arms.
For more information on MasterPiece Arms and their product line of pistols, bolt action rifles, carbines, accessories and suppressors, visit www.masterpiecearms.com.
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
