The Dog That Cornered Osama Bin Laden

Posted on Thursday, 14 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

This story was published on Blogs Nosey Parker The Dog That Cornered Osama Bin Laden

Disclaimer: I have not researched its content to asses the accuracy or authenticity of this story. Readers are advised that no evidence exists suggesting military dogs were used, in any capacity, during the raid on Usama Bin Laden’s compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan, about 80 miles north of Islamabad. It’s an interesting read originally published on May 12, 2011 in the Toronto Sun.com

By: alan.parker – May 12th, 2011

UPDATE, July 5, 2011: It’s now almost two months since I put up this Nosey Parker blog post and I can’t believe the number of people still reading it — and adding loads of new information in their comments at the end of the post. Thank you all. And thanks for all the added comment info, especially on the wonderful Malinois breed, titanium teeth and the Vietnam dogs. And, yes, I apologize for calling Malinois “stubby” — that would be like calling Jose Bautista “stubby” because he’s not as tall as Alex Rodriguez. Alan.

NOTE: This blog post is exactly the same as the one entitled “Canadian Connection To Raid On Bin Laden Compound.” I just wanted to reflect two different aspects of the story in the headlines. When U.S. President Barack Obama went to Fort Campbell, Kentucky, last week for a highly publicized but very private meeting with the commando team that killed Osama Bin Laden, only one of the 81 members of the super-secret SEAL DevGru unit was identified by name: Cairo, the war dog. Cairo, like most canine members of the elite U.S. Navy SEALs, is a Belgian Malinois. The Malinois breed is similar to German shepherds but smaller and more compact, with an adult male weighing in the 30-kilo range.

(German shepherds are still used as war dogs by the American military but the lighter, stubbier Malinois is considered better for the tandem parachute jumping and rappelling operations often undertaken by SEAL teams. Labrador retrievers are also favoured by various military organizations around the world.)

 

Like their human counterparts, the dog SEALs are highly trained, highly skilled, highly motivated special ops experts, able to perform extraordinary military missions by SEa, Air and Land (thus the acronym). The dogs carry out a wide range of specialized duties for the military teams to which they are attached: With a sense of smell 40 times greater than a human’s, the dogs are trained to detect and identify both explosive material and hostile or hiding humans.

The dogs are twice as fast as a fit human, so anyone trying to escape is not likely to outrun Cairo or his buddies. The dogs, equipped with video cameras, also enter certain danger zones first, allowing their handlers to see what’s ahead before humans follow.

As I mentioned before, SEAL dogs are even trained parachutists, jumping either in tandem with their handlers or solo, if the jump is into water. Last year canine parachute instructor Mike Forsythe and his dog Cara set the world record for highest man-dog parachute deployment, jumping from more than 30,100 feet up — the altitude transoceanic passenger jets fly at. Both Forsythe and Cara were wearing oxygen masks and skin protectors for the jump.

Here’s a photo from that jump, taken by Andy Anderson for K9 Storm Inc. (more about those folks shortly). As well, the dogs are faithful, fearless and ferocious — incredibly frightening and efficient attackers. I have seen it reported repeatedly that the teeth of SEAL war dogs are replaced with titanium implants that are stronger, sharper and scare-your-pants-off intimidating, but a U.S. military spokesman has denied that charge, so I really don’t know (never having seen a canine SEAL face-to-face). I do know that I’ve never seen a photo of a war dog with anything even vaguely resembling a set of shiny metal chompers. When the SEAL DevGru team (usually known by its old designation, Team 6) hit Bin Laden’s Pakistan compound on May 2, Cairo’s feet would have been four of the first on the ground. And like the human SEALs, Cairo was wearing super-strong, flexible body armour and outfitted with high-tech equipment that included “doggles” — specially designed and fitted dog goggles with night-vision and infrared capability that would even allow Cairo to see human heat forms through concrete walls. Now where on earth would anyone get that kind of incredibly niche hi-tech doggie gear? From Winnipeg, of all places.

Jim and Glori Slater’s Manitoba hi-tech mom-and-pop business, K9 Storm Inc., has a deserved worldwide reputation for designing and manufacturing probably the best body armour available for police and military dogs. Working dogs in 15 countries around the world are currently protected by their K9 Storm body armour. Jim Slater was a canine handler on the Winnipeg Police Force when he crafted a Kevlar protective jacket for his own dog, Olaf, in the mid-1990s. Soon Slater was making body armour for other cop dogs, then the Canadian military and soon the world. The standard K9 Storm vest also has a load-bearing harness system that makes it ideal for tandem rappelling and parachuting.

 And then there are the special hi-tech add-ons that made the K9 Storm especially appealing to the U.S. Navy SEALs, who bought four of K9 Storm Inc.’s top-end Intruder “canine tactical assault suits” last year for $86,000. You can be sure Cairo was wearing one of those four suits when he jumped into bin Laden’s lair. Here’s an explanation of all the K9 Storm Intruder special features: Just as the Navy SEALS and other elite special forces are the sharp point of the American military machine, so too are their dogs at the top of a canine military hierarchy.

In all, the U.S. military currently has about 2,800 active-duty dogs deployed around the world, with roughly 600 now in Afghanistan and Iraq. Here’s the link to a dandy photo essay about U.S. war dogs that just appeared in the journal Foreign Policy. Several of the photos I have included here are from Foreign Policy, as you will see. Other photos are from K9 Storm Inc.

As for the ethics of sending dogs to war, that’s pretty much a moot point, don’t you think? If it’s ethical to send humans into combat, then why not dogs? At least the U.S. now treats its war dogs as full members of the military. At the end of the Vietnam War, the U.S. combat dogs there were designated as “surplus military equipment” and left behind when American forces pulled out

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Swiss Technology Inc. NJ Pleads Guilty To Conspiring To Violate The Arms Export Control Act.

Posted on Wednesday, 13 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Swiss Technology Inc has supplied almost a thousand unique NSNs to the U.S. Department of Defense over the past 25 years. The company claims to have the highest quality standards, extensive knowledge of Mil-Specs and the capabilities to meet the “highest” standards of the Aerospace and Defense industries.

Press Release:U.S. Attorney’s Office District of New Jersey

NEWARK, N.J. – New Jersey-based defense contracting company Swiss Technology, Inc. (“Swiss Tech”), admitted today to conspiring to violate the Arms Export Control Act by exporting U.S. Department of Defense drawings and specifications to the People’s Republic of China, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
          Swiss Tech, once located in Newark and now in Clifton, N.J., pleaded guilty through its managing member to an Information charging one count of conspiracy to commit an export control violation.  The company entered the guilty plea before U.S. District Judge Jose L. Linares in Newark federal court.

“We simply can’t risk that companies trying to manufacture military equipment on the cheap will expose our troops to more danger than they already face,” said U.S. Attorney Fishman.

“Our armed forces deserve the very best equipment to perform their missions in these difficult times,” said Edward T. Bradley, Special Agent in Charge, Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Northeast Field Office.  “Fraudulent practices, designed to illegally enrich a corporation, and which could compromise the integrity and reliability of that vital equipment is inexcusable.  The Defense Criminal Investigative Service is committed to vigorously investigating such violations of law.”

“This case underscores ICE’s commitment to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to investigate individuals or corporate organizations that circumvent federal regulations in the name of greed,” said Peter T. Edge, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigation (ICE HSI) in Newark. “When our troops’ safety is put in jeopardy, our national security is also compromised.”

According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

From August 2004 through June 2009, Swiss Tech entered into contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to manufacture defense articles and parts for use in military operations.  Rather than manufacture the parts, Swiss Tech exported DoD drawings, specifications, and sample parts to the People’s Republic of China without obtaining a license from the U.S. State Department.

The company contracted with a company in the People’s Republic of China which manufactured the items at a much cheaper price per unit than they would have cost to make in the United States using domestic product.  The items included parts to be used with M4 and M16 rifles and M249 machine guns, some of which were to be used in U.S. military operations.

Swiss Tech admitted that it entered into the agreement with the company in the People’s Republic of China for the financial benefit of Swiss Tech and its co-conspirators and to hide its activities from the U.S. government.  As a result of the conspiracy, Swiss Tech caused the DoD to sustain losses of more than $1.1 million in connection with the fraudulent contracts.

Under the terms of the plea agreement, Swiss Tech consented to the court ordering restitution in the amount of $1,148,051.80 to the DoD.  Sentencing is currently scheduled for November 15, 2011.

U.S. Attorney Fishman credited special agents of DCIS, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Edward T. Bradley; and ICE HSI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Peter T. Edge, for the investigation leading to the guilty plea.  He also thanked attorneys from the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Security Division, Counterespionage Section, under the direction of Assistant Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco, for their assistance; as well as DoD’s Air Force Office of Special Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Mark Walker; and Army Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Forrest Woodward.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Zahid N. Quraishi of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Newark.

I am going to comment on this development because it points to a greater problem; one that is endemic and infecting our business community and financial markets.

Somewhere along the way our business and financial sectors decided that a concept of “reasonable profit” is insufficient. As a result, we see short-sighted business decisions – such as the one demonstrated in this press release – , and financial products that are no more than smoke and mirrors lacking the underlying sustainable  economic value.

Regrettably, Congress has turned a blind eye to the problem, which is bigger than folks think. I am confident that Warren Buffet would agree with my statements.

I strongly support a minimum of government regulation, and I remain entrenched in the idea that a free market economy is the best sociopolitical system ever devised. However, with less government regulation comes an implied agreement that enterprise will behave ethically and honorably – a behavior that many have been abandoned as the concept of “reasonable profit.”

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Suppressors Current State of the Technology – Part 12 – Surefire LLC

Posted on Wednesday, 13 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Surefire's Suppressor Girl

Surefire LLC kicked off its entry into the suppressor business in 2002 when it lauched its Suppressor Division. The M4FA was the company’s production model; made for the 5.56mm NATO round and optimized for use on the Colt M4.

A large part of the company’s design strategy was to produce a lighter and smaller suppressor with as little shift in point of aim / point of impact as possible. In order for their suppressor to be a reliable tactical tool, repeatability was critical.

From the start, the company recognized the need for a quick attach / detach mechanism and set out to develop what in my view is the best mechanism on the market. The Surefire quick attach mechanism is robust and rock-solid. Surefire’s founder, Dr. John Matthews, put forth the initial design, which uses an eccentric ring that locks around a shoulder on the replacement flash hider utilizing dual bearing surfaces for precise alignment with the bore. This meant that the M4’s birdcage flash suppressor had to be replaced. The new flash suppressor had slightly better flash suppression than the birdcage delivering a gain in the overall system performance.

Phto Courtesy Surfire LLC - The CAM4FA556 flash hider fits the M4, M16/AR-15, and other 5.56mm (.223 cal.) semi-auto, bolt-action, or assault rifles with Mil-Spec 1/2-28 muzzle threads

Milspec A2 birdcage flash hider.

Surefire LLC currently manufactures rifle and carbine suppressors in 5.56, 6.8, 7.62 and 8.6 calibers. The company also manufactures machine gun suppressors in both 5.56 and 7.62 calibers.

An outgrowth from their original quick attach / detach design, the company manufactures a variety of muzzle devices in all of the calibers shown above. Surefire suppressors are used widely in all branches of the military and other federal, state and local agencies.

Photo Courtesy Surefire LLC - MICRO 5.56 carbine suppressor. The MICRO provides significant sound suppression—and excellent flash and dust signature suppression—yet adds only 1.75 inches to your weapon's length and weighs only 12 ounces, providing maximum portability, stowability, and maneuverability for your AR-15, M4, M16, C8 SFW, or other rifle

Photo Courtesy Surefire LLC - The FA762K sound suppressor adds just 5.6 inches to the original length of your Armalite AR-10, Knight SR-25 Battle Rifle, Bushmaster BAR-10, DPMS LR308, M1A, M14, Mk14 EBR, Springfield Scout, HK 417, or other 7.62 mm / .308 caliber rifle, yet it provides superior sound suppression

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Having An Italian Running The DoD Is A Good Thing

Posted on Monday, 11 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Are you tawkin ta me? Are you tawkin to me...?

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Ryan Cleckner Former Ranger Sniper and Sniper Instructor Explains the Minute Of Angle (MOA)

Posted on Monday, 11 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Ryan Cleckner, a former ranger sniper and sniper instructor, with the National Shooting Sports Foundation explains the minute of angle or MOA.

If you expect to successfully engage targets at distances beyond and below your original zero, you’ll need to master the minute of angle and this is a great video to get you started.

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Suppressors Current State of the Technology – Part 9 – Ops Inc.

Posted on Sunday, 10 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Ops Inc was founded by O.P Seberger Jr. The company is headquartered in Thousand Oaks, CA. with a manufacturing facility in Shingletown, CA.

Ops Inc. has been manufacturing military grade suppressors since 1988. Their rifle suppressors are in use across the SOF community and a number of federal agencies.

The defining characteristic of the OPS-Inc suppressor is the use of a two point mount. This approach has a number of measurable benefits. First, the suppressor is self aligning, which greatly reduces the possibility of a baffle strike due to bore to suppressor alignment problems. Second, the two point allows the suppressor to come back over the barrel; therefore, less of the suppressor protrudes past the muzzle. Thirdly, because the suppressor’s body comes back over the barrel, a larger blast chamber can be incorporated in the design. This usually means greater blast attenuation. It also reduces the need for more baffles so the overall length of the suppressor can be reduced. Two point mount suppressors will usually take greater impact without a concern about bore-to-suppressor alignment.

The figure on the left shows the mounting arrangement. The suppressor threads on to the muzzle brake and slides rearward until it seats against the collar. This arrangement makes for a rock solid self aligning mount that is unequaled in my opinion.

Ops Inc manufactures suppressors in 5.56mm, .30 caliber and 50 BMG. In 5.56 caliber, the company manufactures 3rd Model M4 MBS, 12th Model SPR MBS (MK12), 15th Model CQB MBS, 3rd Model M249 SAW MBS.

Photo Courtesy Ops-Inc - 12th Model SPR MBS (MK12) Precision Suppressor Widely Used With The SPR.

In .30 caliber, Ops-Inc manufactures the 12 Model PSS / AR-10 / SR-25 Medium Weight Barrel MBS, 3rd Model M40A3 / M24 Heavy Barrel MBS, 3rd Model HK21 / M240 / MBS and 3rd Model PSS Medium Weight Barrel MBS.

Photo Courtesy Ops-Inc 3rd Model M40A3 / M24 Heavy Barrel MBS

As of this writing, Ops Inc manufactures only one 50 BMG suppressor and that is the 3rd Model 50 caliber MBS Suppressors (Bolt Action). Although I am confident that the 3rd Model 50 caliber MBS will work just fine on the M82A1 or M107.
If you’re looking for a suppressor that will withstand the demons of war the Ops Inc suppressors should be on your shopping list.
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Precision Sniper Rifle (PSR) 11

Posted on Sunday, 10 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Photo by Sgt. David William McLean, 22nd MPAD

This post is in reference to USSOCOM’s Precision Sniper Rifle solicitation number H92222-11-R-0011. This notice reflects changes made as of 05 July 2011.

Text:

The Precision Snipe Rifle Industry Day slides, Synopsis notice and Draft Solicitation posted dates; all dates listed in the aforementioned documents were anticipated projected dates.  Until final posting of the PSR solicitation dates are estimates.  At this time the Government is not requesting information from industry.  Industry is advised to continue to monitor this site for updates on the PSR announcement.  The final posted solicitation will inform Offerors of the required dates for your Notice of Intent, Product Sample submission and Proposal submission.  There is not a standard format for the Notice of Intent.  The Offeror Notice of Intent shall include:

Solicitation Number

Company Name

A point of contact

Number of proposals the company envision to submit

Participants please monitor this site for updates

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CamelBak® Vent™ Hot Weather Gloves That Work!

Posted on Sunday, 10 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Gloves are items that usually end up getting ignored until you actually need them; then you wonder why the hell you left them back at your outpost. They perform a number of very useful and generally unappreciated functions, like keeping your hands warm, keeping your hands safe from abrasions, like rope burns. They also keep your hands from becoming rough so that special someone does not suffer the consequences of dried out rough hands. So, why don’t we wear them more often, or should I say regularly. The answer is that they get in the way, so they come off and generally don’t go back on unless we have to.

Just try picking up a peanut, fine allen wrench, load a magazine or take down a weapon, operate a folding knife, and how about typing on a tiny keyboard or using a touch screen. With some exceptions, like fast roping or rappelling, gloves should strike a reasonable balance between protection and preserving manual dexterity. Well, I am happy to say that the CamelBak® VentTM hot weather gloves do just that, and quite well I might add.

 

Review:

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Garmin’s Montana™

Posted on Thursday, 7 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

For all you situational awareness guys – you know who you are! Garmin, a global leader in GPS technology has introduced a new handheld receiver Montana™. Montana™ is offered in a variety of configurations that include 5 mp camera. It is remarkably iPhone-like offering a touchscreen that will display in portrait or landscape modes. Montana™ supports satellite imagery as well as 24K or 100K Topo, Turn-By-Turn and Voice. The receiver is also waterproof and shock proof. It would not surprise me to see Garmin add WiFi or 3G support in future offerings. The Montana™ is available as 600, 650, 650t models starting at around $540-$700 depending on your configuration.

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Looking Down The Road A Bit – Thompson Machine To Deliver DB380 Suppressor.

Posted on Thursday, 7 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

The folks at Thompson Machine teamed with Diamondback Firearms to deliver a compact and efficient suppressor for the Diamondback DB .380. The new suppressor is nearly ready and should be available later in the year. Both manufacturers refer to its efficiency as “stupid quiet”.

The .380 is more appropriately referred to as a 9mm Kurz so any 9mm suppressor will do the job; however, most 9mm suppressors are quite large and Thompson’s can is compact to take advantage of Diamonback’s DB380 micro frame size.

Diamonback Firearms DB380 w/ Thompson Machine DB380 Suppressor

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BROWNELLS BECOMES EXCLUSIVE DISTRIBUTOR FOR TAC-21 SHORT-ACTION REMINGTON 700 CHASSIS

Posted on Thursday, 7 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

TAC-21 SHORT-ACTION REMINGTON 700 CHASSIS

Brownells is the exclusive distributor of the TAC-21 Remington 700 Chassis, a modular chassis for Remington 700 short-action rifles that offers a combination of benchrest accuracy, superior ergonomics and specialized design.

Made by Modular Driven Technologies of Chilliwack, British Columbia, the drop-in chassis serves as a base onto which the operator can add tactical components. It’s manufactured out of aluminum and hard-anodized to mil-spec type III standards with a top full-length MIL-STN-1913 accessories mounting rail. It weighs just over 3 pounds.

The TAC-21 chassis is designed to accept any AR-15 buttstock and pistol grip and uses Accuracy International Chassis System-style magazines, also known as AICS magazines, in .223 Rem. and .308 Win. calibers. It retails for $849.99.

Other features include:
– MIL-STN-1913 accessory rails can be mounted to the forend
– Mounting holes are spaced for Magpul-style L5 (11 slots) and L3 (7 slots) rails.
– Minimizes warping and distortion.
– V-shaped bedding ensures best accuracy
and repeatability.

Rem 700 in TAC-21 Chassis

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A Closer Look At HORUS Vision TReMoR2 Reticle…

Posted on Thursday, 7 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

TReMoR2 - High Magnification

TReMoR2 - Low Magnification

TReMoR2 - Illuminated

Posted in Optics, Sniper Systems and Tools | Tagged , | 2 Comments

COL Scott Armstrong Named as the New Project Manager Soldier Weapons.

Posted on Wednesday, 6 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

COL Scott Armstrong Takes Charge As The New Project Manager Soldier Weapons

In anticipation of Col. Tamilio’s retirement, the U.S. Army taps Col Scott Armstrong to be the new Project Manager Soldier Weapons.

Col. Tamilio presided over an extremely busy period for the group. During his three-year tour, PM Soldier Weapons fielded more than 250,000 weapons, 1.1 million weapons accessories, and completed contract actions totaling $2.4 billion. The organization has also been at the forefront of significant programs, including a competition for a new carbine, the developmental XM25 airburst weapon system, and expansion of the M153 Common Remotely Operated Weapons Station (CROWS) program.

In his new position as Project Manager, Col Armstrong will support Soldiers through the development, production, fielding, and sustainment of current and future weapons systems, as well as associated target acquisition/fire control products. Armstrong previously served as the Director, Enterprise and System Integration Center, which is part of the Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) at Picatinny Arsenal.

Col Tamilio comments, “this is the best acquisition job for an O-6 in the Army because PM Soldier Weapons makes such a critical difference in the lives of Soldiers all across the force,” said Tamilio. “I know that Scotty is up to the challenge and wish him and his family well.”

Our congratulations to Col Scott Armstrong on his new assignment and our thanks to Col Doug Tamilio for his years of outstanding service.

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Suppressors Current State of the Technology – Part 11 – Advanced Armament Company (AAC)

Posted on Tuesday, 5 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Advanced Armament Corporation (AAC)  Lawrenceville, GA is one of the largest suppliers of commercial and military suppressors in the United States. Kevin Brittingham the company’s founder began life in a small shop in Lilburn, GA back in 1999. In as few as ten years, AAC became a dominant force in the flash and sound signature reduction space. They achieved this level of success through innovative design and fabrication. However, as important as the commitment to its product is, AAC did something that none of its competitors saw as important; AAC brought the suppressor out of the closet.

Starting in 2002 Advanced Armament Corporation launched a media and advertising blitz that made the suppressor a commercial success. They began by educating the casual enthusiast, delivered top of the line products, listened to their customers, outpaced their competition and sponsored events like an Annual Silencer School.

Video of the AAC 2011 Silencer Shoot Courtesy of Milspec Monkey.

Along the way, they’ve ruffled feathers, but in highly competitive businesses front-runners often do that. They probably have ruffled a few feathers along the path to success, but keeping them there is the quality, depth and breath of their product offerings.

AAC sells more suppressors and accessories into the commercial space than any other company, and their military sales are growing.

In October 2009, Remington Arms acquired Advanced Armament Corporation, rolling the company’s product into Remington’s extensive portfolio. The acquisition meant that AAC would no longer be capital constrained and they would gain access to Remington’s military and retail channels worldwide. Remington has wisely kept the AAC brand intact for now but all bets are off until things shakeout.

AAC’s success is attributable to design, manufacturing and people, like Robert Silvers the company’s Director Research and Development. Rob brings a wealth of talent and product development experience. He designed a silencer that was recently adopted by the US Army as the standard sound suppressor of the XM-2010 sniper rifle.

Trying to enumerate AAC product offering would be laborious and I’d be accused of promoting so I’ll let you visit AAC’s web site and see for yourself.

However, I will give you a look at a couple that I’ve personally had exposure to.

Photo Courtesy AAC - EVOLUTION 9mm™

The AAC Evolution 9 was the first 9mm caliber suppressor that I had an exposure. Prior to firing the “Evo 9” on a Glock 17 my experience was limited to .22 cal rimfire and .45 ACP.

The Evolution 9 has the integrated ASAP System that functions as a recoil booster and zero-point of impact shift adjustment. The suppressor is light-weight coming in at 9.7 oz. Sound attenuation is excellent at 33-35 db, depending on platform and ammunition selection.

Moving from the small to large, another superb AAC can is the TITAN-SS™. The TITAN is a threaded 338 Lapua Magnum and 300 WinMag suppressor. AAC attributes its impressive 34db in sound attenuation to the incorporation of a patented Hyposone™ monolithic baffle module and CNC fusion welding. This is a heavy suppressor designed to take the abuse that a 338 Lapua Magnum delivers.

Photo Courtesy AAC - TITAN-SS™

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Pelican 9440 RALS Honored AT 2010 Good Design Award Show

Posted on Tuesday, 5 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

 

 

Pelican RALS 9440

Pelican 9440 Remote Area Lighting System is a self-contained work light that features 24 high intensity 1 watt LED‘s that are controlled by a multi function switch with power indicator, a built-in tripod, and telescoping light head for versatility and performance on the go. This Pelican Flashlight gives the user the ultimate maintenance-free portable light station to get the job done efficiently, safely and on time.

 

Specifications for Pelican 9440 RALS System:

Light Source:

LED

Batteries:

NiMH

Tested Lumen Value:

1200 (Low) / 2400 (High)

Battery Burn Time:

6 hrs. (Low) / 3 hrs. (High)

Length:

86.25″ (219 cm)

Features of Pelican 9440 Remote Area Light:

  • Has 24 high intensity 1 watt LED’s that are controlled by a multi function switch with power indicator
  • Has a built-in tripod and telescoping light head for versatility and performance on the go

 

Press Release:

01 July 2011

The Pelican 9440 remote area lighting system (RALS) was recently honoured and recognised during the 2010 Good Design Award Show in Chicago, held from June 13-15, 2011.

The three-day event was hosted by the Chicago Athenaeum – Museum of Architecture and Design and The European Centre – Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies. It honoured the world’s foremost designers and manufacturers from the previous year.  As a winner in the electronics category, the Pelican 9440 RALS was in good company with such industry leading products as the Apple® iPhone 4 and Kodak’s EASYSHARE™ digital camera.

“When a product as advanced as the Pelican 9440 RALS comes along, it revolutionises the industry,” said Scott Jones, Pelican’s director of product management for lighting. “Its development has taken the idea of portable LED area lighting to the next level by offering clean, brilliant and portable lighting in a self contained, easily transported package to our core law enforcement, fire, industrial and military customers. I believe that it will eventually be a ubiquitous product in the consumer arena.”

The Pelican 9440 RALS is an incredibly bright and extremely portable LED area light. It features ten next-generation LEDs and a beam spread of 120 degrees that effectively lights a large area. Additionally, it offers two brightness settings that shine 2,400 lumens for three hours in high-setting and 1,200 for six hours in low setting.

The light is powered by the latest, maintenance-free, nickel metal hydride rechargeable battery. As a result, it runs silent and has no power cord (which eliminates trip-hazards) and emits no toxic fumes like bulky inefficient gasoline-powered lights.

Setting up in seconds, and weighing in at a mere 7.5kg, the Pelican 9440 RALS is built with a streamlined, self-deploying tripod for easy site placement and a nylon shoulder strap for simple transport. The Pelican 9440 RALS also features a telescoping light tower which extends more than two meters and a light array that articulates 170 degrees. The Pelican 9440 RALS is available in either yellow or black.

 

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Suppressors Current State of the Technology – Part 10 – SWR Manufacturing LLC

Posted on Tuesday, 5 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Southeastern Weaponry Research, SWR Manufacturing LLC began life in 1993 at Evans, GA. The company was founded by Joseph D. Gadinni an inventor and former design engineer with Knights Armament Company. Mr. Gadinni sold his interest in SWR to a group of dedicated designers and has since moved on to develop the Grip Pod® System (GPS®). SWR Manufacturing LLC now operates from Laurens, South Carolina where it continues to design and manufacture some of the world’s best suppressors.

An analysis of SWR’s product development shows them making a late market entry into quick attach/detach or QD mounting technology; however, when they made their entry it was done with a superbly reliable mount that used the milspec A2 birdcage flash suppressor.

SWR manufactures a full line of rimfire suppressors, centerfire pistol and centerfire rifle suppressors.

SWR’s Trident 9 has set the world standard, in performance, for a 9mm pistol suppressor that is also SMG rated and capable of supporting fully automatic firing.

Photo Courtesy SWR Manufacturing LLC - Trident 9

Equally successful is the H.E.M.S.2. or High Efficiency Maritime Suppressor. This suppressor is ideal for waterborne applications and is designed to be fired wet. The L.I.D. is integral to the suppressor. The design provides exceptional sound attenuation, and mounting options include 9/16 x 24, .578 x 28, M16 x 1LH, M16 x RH.

Photo Courtesy SWR Manufacturing LLC - H.E.M.S.2

Photo Courtesy SWR Manufacturing LLC - Specwar Mount

SWR manufactures a full line of centerfire rifle suppressors for 5.56, 7.62 and 300 WinMag calibers.The company’s redesigned Specwar features the patented Active Spring Retention (ASR)™ technology with a choice of a flash hider or muzzle brake.

For the precision rifle platforms, the comapny manufactures the Omega 30 and Omega 300 suppressors. Given the increasing interest in the 338 Lapua Magnum, I fully expect that SWR will develop a suppressor specific to that caliber.

SWR Manufacturing LLC, can take credit for some of the best suppressors available anywhere in the world. Their customer support is outstanding and their product carries a lifetime warranty.

Posted in Muzzel Devices, Sniper Systems and Tools, Suppressors | Tagged , | 2 Comments

Replacing the T-10 Troop Personnel Parachute with the T-11 Delayed.

Posted on Tuesday, 5 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

T-11

The U.S. Army has issued safety warnings that amount to a delay in the deployment of the T-11. It appears the U.S. Army lacks confidence in the published wind drift offset factors calculated by the U.S. Air Force. The restriction seems to be centered around ground marker release system or GMRS and verbally initiated release systems or VIRS. Windrift is factored in drop zone computations. Safety issues are not structural but an error in offset factors could adversely influence drop zone calculations resulting in a potentially hazardous situation.

For additional details see Army Times.

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on Replacing the T-10 Troop Personnel Parachute with the T-11 Delayed.

Suppressors Current State of the Technology – Part 9 – GEMTECH

Posted on Sunday, 3 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Few companies have the reputation and history in the suppressor industry than GEMTECH of Boise Indiana enjoys. The company began delivering high quality suppressors in 1993, and their suppressors can be found in use globally with military and law enforcement, at all levels of these organization. The GEMTECH name is synonymous with suppressors and sound signature reduction technologies.

The company manufactures a full line of rimfire suppressors, centerfire pistol, centerfire rifle, submachine gun and PDW suppressors.

My first exposure to GEMTECH was a suppressed UZI SMG; fitted with a MOSSAD
suppressor. The MOSSAD threads directly to the UZI’s barrel nut, and today GEMTECH
manufactures an improved version of the original MOSSAD, the MOSSAD II.

Photo Courtesy GEMTECH - MOSSAD II

Equally notable is the GEMTECH HALO a 5.56mm rifle suppressor that mounts directly to the rifle’s existing muzzle device without modification. It has an overall length of 7.2″ and a tube diameter of 1.5″. The HALO uses 300 series stainless steel and inconel making it a robust hard use signature reduction device.

Photo Courtesy GEMTECH - HALO

The 7.62×51 caliber is the defacto standard for precision engagement rifles like the venerable M24. GEMTECH manufactures a number of suppressors specifically designed for a sniper weapon system, for example its SANDSTORM.

Photo Courtesy GEMTECH - SANDSTORM

The SANDSTORM is usable in both 7.62mm and .300 WinMag. This suppressor has an overall length of 7.8″ and a diameter of 1.5″. The SANDSTORM threads mounts to the muzzle using a 5/8-24 or 18×1.5M thread pattern.

GEMTECH pistol suppressors are  among the best available. The company manufactures pistol suppressors in .45 ACP, 9 mm and 5.7×28 mm. The most versatile design in their inventory is the MULTIMOUNT. The core component is the 9 mm suppressor module, the customer can then purchase a variety of mounts to accommodate the variety of platforms in use.

Photo Courtesy GEMTECH - MULTIMOUNT

Posted in Muzzel Devices, Sniper Systems and Tools, Suppressors, Uncategorized | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Suppressors Current State of the Technology – Part 9 – GEMTECH

Why Do You Like the Dragunov Ranging Reticle… Reader Question

Posted on Sunday, 3 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub
A reader asked me to explain why I like the Dragunov ranging reticle.
First, let me apologize for not responding in a more timely manner but I’ve been up to my eyes in work.
The explanation has to begin with the central question, and that is why we use ranging reticles.
A ranging reticle performs a number of functions. First it has to provide you with accurate range information as quickly as possible. Second, it must allow you to decisively engage your target. Third, it must allow you to correct your fire.  All three are critical to a successful operation.
If you look at Figure 1, you’ll see a 1,7 this means that the ranging reticle is calibrated for a 1.7 meter target which translates to a 5’6″ target  or 66 inches.
If we divide Figure 1 into quadrants, the third quadrant contains the ranging element of the reticle.
To range a target place the target image so that it sits between the enumerated top line and the horizontal line below. When the target in squarely bracketed between top and bottom lines read the target range shown along the top enumerated line. Note that all ranges are in meters. The number 2 indicates 200 meters, the next tick mark to the left of the number 2 is 300 meters, etc. Now, lets assume that the target is not fully exposed. Furthermore lets assume that all you have is the upper torso. What’s the range to the target now? Simply bracket the torso and read the range. Lets say that it’s 4 0r 400 meters. Since the torso is about half of the full target size simply dive by two. The actual range is 200 meters. Making it more complex yet, let’s say that only the shoulders and head are exposed. Proceed as before by bracketing the target and reading the top number. Let’s assume that number is 8 or 800 meters. Since your target is head and shoulders, which is approximately one-fourth of a full size target we dive 8 by 4 and arrive at 2 or 200 meters. Note that you can also interpolate. For example, the exposed target is 10 inches high and when you bracket the target it falls between the 6 and 7 tick mark. You would call that 650 meters; the 10 inch target is approximately one-sixth of a full target so divide 650 by 6 to get a target range of 108 meter.
The fact that you may be engaging taller or shorter targets should not distract you as the proportions tend to be the same. This ranging reticle will provide you with extremely fast ranges that have better than combat accuracy.
The chevrons are hold points at specific ranges for a specific caliber and those will vary with the weapon system and ammunition.
The top horizontal line is calibrated in mils so I can use that for wind holds and to determine target movement, direction and speed, in other words target leed.
My own proficiency with the Dragunov ranging reticle is high enough that at a known range I can give you the target height, as well as range normally.
There are great reticles available, like the Horus reticle, but if they don’t deliver on the criteria mentioned earlier, they’re useless.
Disclaimer: All of the calculations discussed in this post are not precise nor do they need to be. The intent is to illustrate how quickly range can be determined without the use of mil calculators or other apparatus.
Posted in Optics, Weapon systems | Tagged , , | Comments Off on Why Do You Like the Dragunov Ranging Reticle… Reader Question

Is There A Vaginal Pulmonary Link?

Posted on Saturday, 2 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Recently, I was at a local Starbucks enjoying a Verona French Press doing some research for a review I’m working on. A few minutes after my arrival two individuals arrive. One wearing an N.Y.C. shirt. The other, a female, was dressed in pink tights with black shorts – clearly dance apparel.

They begin to talk, but their tone was loud and their N.Y. accents conspicuous. It was annoying to everyone in the establishment. However, their rudeness was not the point of curiosity.

Most human speech occurs in half-duplex form, meaning one person speaks at a time. These two defied that MO and spoke concurrently or in full-duplex to each other. The woman was particularly obnoxious. She spoke at a rate and so voluminously that it was physiologically impossible for her to breathe. I was amazed by this but on closer inspection, I saw her wildly fanning her legs back and forth in such a prosaic manner and at the same rate that she spoke, which lead me to the conclusion there may have been a vaginal pulmonary link.

It was amazing!

Posted in True Story | Tagged | Comments Off on Is There A Vaginal Pulmonary Link?

Battle: Los Angeles

Posted on Saturday, 2 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

It’s time for an addition to our Moral Builder section with a movie review and we’ve chosen Battle: Los Angeles. If there was ever a lack luster “combat / war” movie, this was it.

It starts with scenes from Camp Pendleton, home of the 2nd Battalion, 5th Regiment U.S.M.C. otherwise referred to as the “25.” Aaron Eckhart plays veteran Staff Sgt. Nantz who after a number of combat tours in Iraq decides to take his 20 and rotate to the world. His plans are sabotaged by persnickety aliens that decide to invade planet Earth for its water. Although the reason(s) for the invasion was never developed in the story, an egghead from some university (probably NYU) postulates that water is a form of fuel for the invaders; they’re here to take our water –  a concept so ludicrous that it’s laughable. I’ll explain why in just a minute, but it is a glaring example of how poorly researched this film was.

This is why water makes for very poor fuel. Water is H2O, that means it has two parts Hydrogen and one part Oxygen. The source of energy in water is Hydrogen because it contributes a single proton, a single electron and a single neutron. Using electrolysis (large electrical current run through water to separate O from H2) leaves and H2 or hydrogen gas atom – highly explosive I might add. Because H2 is in its most stable form, splitting it into 2H (two hydrogen atoms), to get two electrons and two protons and two neutrons, requires an enormous amount of energy. The aliens would better off vaporizing humans to extract the hydrogen (H) from the carbon chains in our bodies. Folks, I can assure you that there is not a respectable alien in the Universe that would use water as a fuel. Take my word for it okay!

Anyway, the aliens hit every major metropolitan center across the planet – sound familiar? That’s because its been used in virtually all alien invasion movies ever made. When news of the invasion broke, Staff Sgt. Nantz’s C.O. cancels his retirement and places him in a unit with a rookie LT. His problems worsen when his squad finds out he got some Marines killed in Iraq – an idea later dispelled with a moving speech, from Nantz, in which he calls out the dead’s names and serial numbers.

Nantz’s squad is ordered to move to an abandoned police station to rescue civilians. As Nantz’s LT manuevers his squad, his ineptness is revealed which climaxes as it becomes clear that he’s gotten himself into a complete cluster-fuck (military jargon for bad situation). It is at this point that he allows Nantz greater latitude, but a supportive Nantz always insists that the LT lead.

Along the way, Nantz’s squad picks up Air Force Tech Sergeant Elena Santos, played by Michelle Rodriguez. Santos was on a “secret” mission to locate “The” Command and Control alien ship. Folks, the second thing that respectable alien invaders would never do – especially one’s capable of interstellar travel – is create a single point of failure in the invasion force – joins up with Nantz’s squad. Upon her arrival Nantz hands her an M4 saying “Airman, I hope you know how to use this…” to which she says “Staff Sgt. I didn’t get my stripes on my good looks…” I couldn’t stop laughing but I can assure you that it wasn’t marksmanship that got her promoted.

With civilians (one who is a veterinarian) and Santos in tow, Nantz wounds an alien. They decide to dissect the creature to determine where to shoot it to kill it. They cut into its chest and begin to stab various parts of it with a K-Bar to see what spot would lead to its death – LOL. They find that a spot to the right of where a human heart would be is where you need to hit them to kill them. Once they find that spot Nantz orders his squad to shoot to the right of where the heart would be. Information that he never shares with his command and control.

Nantz and his squad slug their way through Los Angeles arriving at the extraction zone with the remaining members of his party. The Helo takes off  when he and Santos spot “The” Command and Control ship. Nantz orders the pilot to put him 20 feet above it. Unable to comply, Nantz decides to fastrope into the AO alone; however, his team, including Santos, inspired by Nantz courage fastrope in with him. Once in position, they use a laser designator and call in an air strike but “The” Command and Control ship uses drones to target the incoming missiles. Finally, Santos attacks one of the drones with an AT4 taking out the drone, which allows the incoming missile to hit “The” Command and Control ship.

It wasn’t a complete disaster but pretty damned close. Throughout the movie you get a sprinkling of some good fire fights but that’s all you get. If you’re a closet commando, you may like this movie because it’s full of inspirational one liners.

Regrettably, it’s consistent with the endless supply of crap coming from Hollywood lately. Where has good art gone?

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Individual Carbine RFP (Update)

Posted on Friday, 1 July, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Readers following the Individual Carbine solicitation should be aware that the RFP is finally out. Please refer to my previous article for a link to the complete set of documents.

It’s important to note that the RFP does not, in any way, shape or form, cancel or modifies the PIP. The program improvement is alive and well and attempts to resolve some of the more glaring issues with the M4 like the bolt and carrier group. Manufacturer’s or designers have two paths they can take. First, supply some of the requested enhancements to the M4. You may also submit an individual weapon system, as detailed in the RFP.

One or both of those paths are available to you. Participation in any one path does not preclude you from participating in the other or both.

The process is consistent with PEO Soldier’s dual path approach articulated by Col. Tamilio’s Office.

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The Long Awaited Request For Proposal – Individual Carbine

Posted on Wednesday, 29 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

The Request For Proposal for the Army’s Individual Carbine Program is out. The Final RFP was posted today, 29-June-2011.

You can download the complete document here.

We will be following this competition closely so look for more on the subject.

Posted in RFP | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

SOFIC – Gallery

Posted on Wednesday, 29 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Cashing The Checks Can Be Hard On A Guy

Doin' All the Selling

Seal Delivery Vehicle

Pluto Gigas - designed and developed to meet operational requirements. Remotely operated mine disposal vehicle capable of operating in sea currents up to 5 kt, at depths down to 1,000 m and at long ranges.

General Dynamics Flyer - Designed to provide land mobility and transportable via CV-22

MASSIF designers and manufacturers of some of the best combat apparel available.

Supply Captain are purveyors of just about anything. Great folks to do business with.

Princeton Tec's MPLS - tactical personal lighting system designed for high reliability and flexibility - A small light delivering high value.

ROTINOR - Manufactures dive jets

Lockheed-Martin's Exoskeleton - Take the load off.

BAE Systems - Some of the finest tactical gear available - covert plate carrier and modular plate carrier system.

SIG ARMS - Blaser Sniper Rifle System (Shown Suppressed) - Straight Pull Action

Johnny Johnson, SIG Arms, demonstrates how easy it is to attach the suppressor - Uh hum..

Ashbury International is a diversified consulting business that also happens to manufacture highly prestigious sniper weapon systems.

Leupold Stevens - generations of superb tactical and military optics.

Zip Dry - designs and manufactures water tight bags, packs and pouches.

Posted in FN, Gear, Mobility, Muzzel Devices, Optics, Sniper Systems and Tools, Soldier Systems, Suppressors, Tactical Lighting, Weapon systems | Tagged , | Comments Off on SOFIC – Gallery

SOFIC 2011 – Engage

Posted on Wednesday, 29 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub
The last part of the USSOCOM equation “Understand, Communicate, Move, Engage” addresses the kinetic component of the SOCOM mission.
Active projects embraced by the engage variable include weapons, munitions, operator survivability, signature reduction, non-lethal technologies, vision augmentation and a variety of other activities that carry a classified status. Major programs and the offices responsible for development, acquisition and management are listed below:
    • Visual Augmentation SORDAC-ST
    • Target Engagement SORDAC-ST
    • Non-lethal Interdiction of People and Vehicles SORDAC-ST
    • Advanced Energetics SORDAC-ST
    • Combat Swimmer Thermal Protection System PEO-M
    • Dynamic Ride Impact Mitigation PEO-M
    • Advanced Materials for Armor and Weight Reduction SORDAC-ST
    • Multi-spectral Signature Reduction SORDAC-ST
Posted in ISR, Soldier Systems, Weapon systems | Tagged , | Comments Off on SOFIC 2011 – Engage

SOFIC 2011 – Mobility

Posted on Wednesday, 29 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Understanding and Communicating are all prerequisites to Engage but the equation falls apart if you can’t move your teams with safety, speed, reliability, and a modicum of comfort; a lesson learned from operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, where better than 65% of all deaths were due to Improvised Explosive Devices or IEDs. This is a staggering number and it’s no surprise that the DoD worked tirelessly to up-armor land mobility assets in theater; a move followed by all coalition partners.

The Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle (MRAP), designed by the USMC and in service since 2002.

BAE

MRAP development is a DoD wide initiative but there are SOF peculiar requirements.

USSOCOM for fiscal year 2012 will fund a number of mobility projects.

The Rotary Wing has and will continue to add aircraft, upgrade navigation, threat detection, survivability, sensors and weapon systems.

The Fixed Wing side of the house has also had a busy year with more work to be done. The slide below identifies the many projects the PEO-FW will manage.

The PEO-M, Maritime is looking at enhancements to the existing small vessel inventory to mitigate the risk of physical shock. If you’ve ever been on a ski boat or a speed boat, traversing just a small wave can impart a considerable shock to the occupants. USSOCOM wants to reduce physical shock. PEO-M will also be working towards improved sensors, improved survivability, navigation, stealth technology (visible, radar and heat signature), multi-fuel outboard engines, SEALS will be looking for reliable undersea mobility, improved batteries and a SEAL Delivery Vehicle.

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SOFIC 2011 – Communicate

Posted on Tuesday, 28 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

In my last SOFIC 2011 post, I touched on the “Understand” component of Adm. Olson’s vision for USSOCOM post Geronimo EKIA. It is at the heart of everything that USSOCOM does but more importantly it is key to meeting our military and intelligence objectives going forward. If the NIC is correct in their assessment of our intelligence needs into 2015 and beyond; then, understanding better than the other guy will be a decisive factor as to whether we win or lose.

Communicate, on the other hand, has immediate application and there is considerable interest at all levels of USSOCOM and the DoD to improve on communications. The JTRS is a significant but not all-inclusive part of the strategic view on communications. The netcentric battlefield is alive and well even if the Army’s Future Combat Systems was scrapped.

SOFIC 2011 was a great venue to pick up on some of the discrete components. This year, I had an excellent opportunity to meet with some of the Elbit folks all of whom were kind enough to discuss Elbit Systems Land and C4I – Tadiran’s DOMINATOR®.

It’s my understanding that as of this writing, DOMINATOR® is deployed with the IDF. The Integrated Infantry Combat System, integrates voice, data and video to deliver a complete C4ISR solution. Some of the features that I was very much impressed with is VoIP support, cell phone and legacy PBX support as well as RF over IP or ROIP. I think Elbit is forward thinking and on the right track with their solution.

The video links will give you a reasonably good idea of DOMINATOR® capabilities. The complete video consists of three two-minute parts, which should all be viewed in order.

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Posted in Comms, Electronics, ISR, Nav Aids, Soldier Systems | Tagged , , , , | Comments Off on SOFIC 2011 – Communicate

Algiz 7 Tablet from Handheld Now Certified by Verizon Wireless

Posted on Tuesday, 28 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

ALGIZ 7 Ruggedized Tablet

Handheld US, a North American supplier of rugged PDAs and devices, announced that its Algiz 7 rugged tablet computer is certified for connectivity on the Verizon Wireless network.

The Algiz 7 is an ultra-rugged, 7-inch widescreen tablet that runs Microsoft Windows 7 Ultimate operating system and offers users wireless communication across the globe. Optional 3G cellular capabilities provide high-speed GSM/UMTS/EVDO data transmission.

The Algiz 7 rugged tablet uses Gobi™ 2000 technology that supports both GSM and CDMA high-speed data networks, giving users their choice of wireless frequency anywhere in the world. “Many of our U.S. customers have asked for Verizon Wireless compatibility,” said Dale Kyle, president of Handheld US. “The flexibility of the Algiz 7 gives our customers the opportunity to use the mobile network that serves them best. Adding Verizon Wireless, America’s largest, and most reliable wireless network to the Algiz 7 will be a tremendous benefit.” “We are seeing many industries migrate towards a tablet for their everyday business practices,” said Aparna Khurjekar, Executive Director, Open Development, Verizon Wireless. “

Handheld has a solid business model supporting those field service industries such as transportation, retail, public safety, government, utilities, and a host of others” The Algiz 7 comes standard with Bluetooth, WLAN and GPS as well as a built-in 2-megapixel camera with an LED light. It features an Intel Atom 1.6 GHz processor with a 64 GB solid state hard drive and 2 GB of DDR2 RAM. The Algiz 7 is rated IP65 and meets stringent MIL-STD-810G military standards for withstanding humidity, vibration, drops and extreme temperatures. Weighing a mere 2.4 lbs, this compact tablet is one of the lightest rugged 7-inch tablets on the market. The Algiz 7 is available now. Current Algiz 7 rugged tablet owners can contact Handheld US for Verizon Wireless network activation.

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Coming Attractions

Posted on Saturday, 25 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

I will continue SOFIC 2011 coverage with some very cool maritime and aviation mobility. I’ll also have more reviews completed on some pretty interesting gear and technologies. So, stick with us.

Remember that you can always visit FOG HORN to download or read any of the reviews.

Have a great weekend.

Posted in Alerts | Tagged | Comments Off on Coming Attractions

SOG ®PowerLock® Multitool

Posted on Saturday, 25 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

SOG Specialty Knives and Tool, LLC. recently added a new member to their highly successful multitool family. The SOG® PowerLock® offers an array of field expedient tools. The PowerLock® uses the patented Compound Leverage™ which acts to increase the torque much like a ratcheting system.

SOG’s Marketing Director, Chris Cashbaugh, gives us a video demo.

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RANDALL’S Adventure ESEE Knife Junglas

Posted on Thursday, 23 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

In the realm of survival knives Randall’s Adventure Training and Equipment Group has produced some extraordinary products. Their design philosophy is an extension of their experience in Survival, Escape and Evasion Training.

The ROWEN manufactured Junglas® fills every conceivable need from clearing brush to skinning. It is a massive blade that you can baton mercilessly without fear of breaking the point or edge. The sheath is brilliantly conceived with PAL webbing, which facilitates the attachment or other pouches – GPS or Survival to name a few. Great knife.

ESEE Junglas

ESEE Junglass Sheath with PAL Webbing - Love it!

 

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on RANDALL’S Adventure ESEE Knife Junglas

ENTREK USA Commando… Lean and Mean

Posted on Thursday, 23 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Entrek USA Commando

Entrek USA manufactures a small but muscular line of combat knives. Ray Ennis, Entrek’s owner and artisan has been designing knives since his teens. That experience was evident in the USA Commando pictured above. The USA Commando features a 7″ x 0.187″ 440C blade. The dagger design has an air of Sykes and Fairbairn. The Commando II comes in a black finish adding to they stealthiness of a dagger design.

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MIL-TAC Knives & Tools Impressive Combat – Survival CS-2Ti

Posted on Thursday, 23 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

MIL-TAC Knives & Tools, Wylie, Texas is one of many young companies delivering superb products in direct support of military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The company has a small but well diversified product offering that includes pistol grips (made from G10), tactical defense pens, fixed blade survival and combat knives, daggers, folding knives and rescue knives.

While at Blade 2011, I had an opportunity to take a close look at two of their designs. The Combat-Survival CS-2Ti, a beast of a survival knife, magnificently implemented in Titanium. The handle was broad and hand-filling wrapped around a broad full tang blade made from Titanium. Although I prefer steel, for ease of sharpening and maintenance, the CS-2Ti is extremely useful in an EOD role.

 

MIL-TAC Knives & Tools Combat Survival CS-2Ti

 

MIL-TAC Knives & Tools Folder with a beautiful recurve drop point blade.

 

 

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Remington’s 300 AAC Blackout Ammunition Now Commercially Available.

Posted on Thursday, 23 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Remington is now delivering 300 AAC Blackout ammunition under the Remington Express® label. A total of six loads are planned, two loads are nearly ready and will be offered later in the year; three additional loads are in development.

Visit Midway’s web site to place your orders.

300 AAC Blackout Subsonic 220 grn Load.

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Benchmade Nimravus Now With A Redesigned Sheath

Posted on Thursday, 23 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Benchmade designs and manufactures many of the world’s best military and combat knives, and the company’s products are known for quality and durability.

Benchmade’s Nimravus, fixed blade designs, are superbly capable combat knives but they were lacking in sheath design. This year, Benchmade turned that into a moot point with the introduction of an improved sheath for the Nimravus. The new sheath is PAL and MOLLE compliant, so the knife can be mounted to a contemporary tactical vests or plate carrier.

If you’re looking for a superb combat knife, look no further.

Benchmade's Nimravus with its redesigned sheath. An exceptional combat knife.

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Mark Knapp Custom Knives, Fairbanks Alaska at Blade Show 2011

Posted on Thursday, 23 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

In the 1911 category, Mark Knapp of Mark Knapp Custom Knives Fairbanks, AK, delivers his vision of the 1911 knife.

The Knapp design features a fully functional 1911 magazine that Mr. Knapp claims will function in any 1911. This very serious survival knife features an 8″ blade with a beautiful clip point. 2015 prices for this knife is $750 plus $20 for shipping.

Mark Knapp Combat Survivor

Posted in Knives and Tools | Tagged , , , | 4 Comments

SOG’s Aegis Continues To Be A Strong Performer…

Posted on Thursday, 23 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

You won’t find many asking for an upgraded version of a Chateau Lafite Rothschild so too it is with SOG’s famously successful Aegis series. Since its introduction, several years ago, the Aegis has done extremely well for SOG and it continues to deliver.

The Aegis is an assisted opening folder featuring a 3.5″ AUS 8 stainless steel blade. Lock up is absolutely solid. The blade profile would make a Ginsu turn green with envy. It is a superb folding knife for EDC or tactical carry. The Aegis is ideally suited for slicing and cutting tasks. The DigiGrip™ handles, and tacky rubber inserts all contribute to the all important comfortable and secure grip.

SOG's Aegis Assisted Opening Folding Knife

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The Venerable 1911 Inspires More Than One Designer At Blade Show.

Posted on Thursday, 23 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

One designer ULTIMATE™ EQUIPMENT has developed an entire product line around the M1911. The company currently offers the M1911 Standard Folding Knife, M1911 Officer Compact Folding Knife and an M1911 Fixed Blade.

The folding knives are available in a 440C steel and a CPM S30V from Crucible U.S.A. The M1911 Fixed Blade comes in a 440C, 4.33″ blade length. Folders and fixed blade designs are stout and fit for duty.

M1911 Standard Folding Knife

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Reader Question (JTRS) – Could You Explain What IPv6 is?

Posted on Tuesday, 21 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

Devices that connect to the Internet or wide area networks require a unique address, very similar to your mailing address at home. Under the current IP or Internet Protocol standard, version 4 or IPv4, there are not sufficient addresses to uniquely identify all of the devices that are accessing the Internet. Very simply, we are running out of addresses.

Implementing Internet Protocol version 6, or IPv6, gives us 2128 possible addresses. This is a simple yx function on your calculator. If you enter 2 then 128 and press yx you’ll see 3.40282366921×1038. A very large number, so the address pool is much larger and capable of accommodating growth.

IPv6 also does away with an addressing/routing strategy called NAT or Network Address Translation. There are a number of issues associated with NAT.

First let’s understand what NAT does. Local area networks like the one at home or your office are usually implemented using non-routable IP addresses. For example, IP addresses like 10.0.0.1. In order for these devices to communicate with the outside world (The Internet) they must go through a device called a router. A router performs a variety of functions that I won’t discuss here; however, one of its principal functions is NAT. So, the Internet (or Wide Area Network) sends a data stream to the router’s unique and routable IP address instead of sending it to the device requesting the information. The router receives the data stream, and using NAT, decides what node or device should receive it. The system works quite well most of the time; however, it creates a couple of problems when trying to form adhoc networks on the fly and under battlefield conditions. 

  • Problem number 1, every adhoc network has to have at least one routing device possibly more. Furthermore, it places as tremendous load or burden on the routing device because of the complexity of the routing tables needed; thus, contributing to network congestion and latency.
  • Problem number 2, nodes, or ports on nodes (like a radio with a port for video, data or voice) cannot be addressed directly as it may not have a unique routable IP address. This limits the near neural quality of the adhoc network where it may be critically important to address a single port on a device. For example, a fire control sequence to an unattended weapon station.

 

Hope it helps you and thanks for the question…

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BLADE 2011 – The Largest Trade Show Dedicated To Edged Weapons and Tools

Posted on Tuesday, 21 June, 2011 by twobirdsflyingpub

The 2011 Blade Show was held June 10-12 at the Cobb Galleria in Atlanta, GA. It is the largest of its kind trade show in the world; pulling exhibitors from all over the world.

This year’s show was larger than ever, and it showed on opening day, with attendees lined around the floor waiting to enter the exhibit.

If your passion is edged weapons, you’ll find no better exhibit than Blade Show. The hobbyist and aficionado will love the plethora of artisans, knife designers and tool makers. Retailer or distributor, your buyers will have an opportunity to meet with industry representatives to get a first hand look at new or improved product offerings, and don’t forget the dickering. It’s that country fair look and feel of Blade that I love most and you will too. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.  Blade is one of those few events where you can be standing around taking in the sights and have Ken Onion or Kit Carson walk up and start talking shop. Blade is also a great family event where kids can see how knives are made and look at everything from a pocket knife to a battle-ax.

Blade 2011 and SOG was host to celebrity spokesman R. Lee Ermy, affectionately known as The Gunny. In typical Gunny fashion, Lee had them lining up for a chance to chat and an autograph. Gunny Ermy is a stalwart spokesman on Second Amendment and Knife Right issues. SOG couldn’t find a better partner.

Chris Cashbaugh From SOG Knives Insists on Line Discipline.

This year’s show had a few more gear exhibits than prior years, and with hunting season right around the corner, Blade 2011 was a great  opportunity for hunters to pick up a new pack or high performance light offered by Fenix.

The highlight of the show for me was meeting with the great folks from Randall’s Adventure & Training®. Randall’s is clearly the go to source for survival training and they’ve been doing a great job for the military and intelligence community since 1997. One of the areas of contention that I’ve had with knife manufacturers and designers, is the design concept that encourages personnel to attach their survival knives to a wood pole in order to construct a spear. Readers, the last thing you want to do is attach your survival knife to a pole and throw it at a fish or animal. It may be the last time you see it. Instead, I suggest that you invest in Randall’s survival kit as shown below.

Randall’s Adventure & Training Survival Kit

The kit includes a variety of must have items like fish hooks, purpose-built spearhead, fire starter, signaling mirror, paracord and a series of handy cards that will help you in a survival situation. According to Randall’s representative the design concept was derived from current kidnapping scenarios encountered in a number of South American countries.

Additional arrow heads are also available at a $40 to $50 price point and I strongly recommend that you consider adding Randall’s Survival Kit to your gear. It easily fits in a flight jacket or flight suit as well as in a Bug Out bag or Blow Out kit.

Arrow Heads Shown in Wallet Style Holder

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