I can’t think of a special operations organization, whether military or law enforcement who is unfamiliar with the Knight’s Armament Company (KAC) of Titusville, FL. The company enjoys an excellent global reputation.
KAC is owned by C. Reed Knight and was founded in 1982. It is a well diversified manufacturer of firearms and accessories. KAC’s accessory portfolio consists of the Rail Interface System (RIS), Rail Adapter System (RAS), vertical grips, rail panels, front and rear sights, suppressors and clip-on night vision devices marketed as the Universal Night Sight (UNS). Their firearm portfolio consists of the SR-15, SR-16, SR-25, M110 Semi-Automatic Sniper System (SASS), Personal Defense Weapon (PDW), SR-47 and SR-50 (no longer in production), M203 and Master Key, Stoner LMG and ChainSAW LMG. Along with the listed products, KAC, has produced special application products for a number of customers.
KAC’s success stems from the company’s ability to respond to any requirement and a commitment to design and manufacturing elegance. All KAC weapon designs incorporate sound suppression from inception and no modifications to the weapon are needed.
KAC designed a number of sound suppressors but they are best known for the MK23 .45 Caliber Suppressor. The device was specifically designed by KAC for the Heckler and Kock MK23 Mod 0, .45 ACP, adopted by USSOCOM. U.S. Special Operations Command took delivery of the first units in 1996.
MK23 Suppressor
The Mk23 suppressor was designed to be fired wet and provides the best sound attenuation when fired wet (38dB of attenuation wet v. 28 dB attenuation dry), by a factor of 10dB. The company continues to manufacture the MK23 suppressor. It is available in the supply system under NSN 1005-01-435-1917.
KAC also manufactures the H&K USP-T .45 Caliber Suppressor, P/N 97225, for the H&K USP Tactical. Like
KAC H&K USP-T .45 Caliber Suppressor
the Mk23, this suppressor is designed to be fired wet and delivers 38dB of attenuation when fired wet compared to 28dB when fired dry; resulting in a 10db gain. Firing the HK USP-T wet is the recommended use.
Unlike the Mk23 suppressor, the H&K USP-T uses a Nielsen device so that it functions reliably in a Browning style action, like the one found on the H&K USP Tactical. KAC also manufactures rifle caliber suppressors.
The M4/M16 QDSS-NT4 Suppressor is their 5.56 x 45 offering. It is a quick attach design that mounts directly to the KAC flash suppressor.
KAC Flash Suppressor and Quick Attach - Detach Mount
KAC M4/M16 QDSS-NT4 Suppressor
It will attach to any M4 or M16 equipped with the Knight’s flash suppressor. KAC includes the flash suppressor with the M4/M16 QDSS-NT4. The suppressor is designed to be fired dry and delivers 28db of attenuation. The M4/M16 QDSS-NT4 is rated for full automatic fire.
Knight’s Armament Company also produces suppressors for their line of 7.62 x 51 weapon platforms; more notably the KAC SR-25, still in use by USSOCOM as a sniper platform, and the M110 SASS, in use by the U.S. Army as the standard issue sniper platform.
KAC MK11 Mod 0 7.62 x 51 Suppressor
The Mk11 Mod 0 uses a quick attach / detach mount and delivers 28 dB of attenuation. The tube measures 12.25″ in length and 1.375″ in diameter, and its available through the supply system under NSN: 1005-01-474-0197. The M110 suppressor, NSN: 1005-01-542-4487 is identical to the Mk11 Mod 0 differing only in tube length. The M110 measures 14.125″.
Every Knight’s Armament Suppressor is a no frills industrial strength product designed for military operations and all of their suppressors are currently in active military use.
Notes: All pictures used in this post are courtesy of Knight’s Armament Company,
Titusville, FL. They are the sole property of the Knight’s Armament Company and
may be protected by Copyright and Trademark laws.
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In my days in the Navy, the issue handgun was a M1911, .45 ACP. You could hear it rattling as it came out of the holster but it went bang every time you squeezed the trigger. In fact, virtually all branches issued M1911 to individuals that had a requirement for a sidearm. In 1990 the DoD made a decision to replace the venerable M1911 with the Beretta 92F, a 9 x 19 semiautomatic pistol, with a magazine capacity of 15 rounds.
The catalyst for the move was the need to bring the U.S. in compliance with the N.A.T.O. standards, which today stand at 9mm, 5.56mm, 7.62mm. Standardization simplifies logistics and supply as well as maintenance.
In 2005, the U.S. Air Force issued a requirement for a Modular Handgun System (MHS). The USAF’s objective is to open the door to a sidearm with increased capabilities over the M9. The Air Force’s requirements document received the approval of the Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System (JCIDS). Six years have passed since the MHS requirement and the M9 is still alive and well – or so I thought!
It now appears that the U.S. Army has reworked the original MHS document adding language that would include support for fire control devices, pistol grips, magazine options. Nothing that appears to be earth shattering and the existing M9A1 already meets that criteria. However, where the USAF’s MHS was caliber neutral, the Army seems to be interested in a caliber that would provide a larger permanent wound channel. The Army also wants the weapon to provide a good fit for a variety of hand sizes.
According to Col. Doug Tamilio, PM, Soldier weapons, the Army’s version of the MHS requirements document should be out sometime in 2011. Does this signal a move back to a modernized M1911 .45ACP or perhaps something chambered in a .40 S&W? It’s hard to say.
My thoughts on this issue may anger some, but what it should signal is a move back to the pistol range so that soldiers can receive adequate combat pistol training. A pistol is a last resort weapon and the key to success is not caliber but technique and shot placement. Most pistol calibers will not defeat body armor. The 9 x 19 mm comes as close to defeating body armor as anything else without adding another caliber to the fray.
In 2011, SOG Specialty Knives Inc. continues its tradition of designing and manufacturing great blades with a new automatic offering, the SOG Tac Automatic Drop Point.
Readers who have followed my reviews know I tend to take folding knives lightly when it comes to tactical application. Look, let’s face it, chipping through sheet rock or a block wall is hard on a blade and the axis point on a folder is a single point of failure.
Having said that, the compactness and accessibility of a folding knife can’t be understated; therefore, I have consistently recommended you carry a fixed blade for the more demanding jobs you’ll encounter and a quality tactical folder for everyday tasks or as a defensive backup in close quarter combat. Here, an automatic knife provides a decisive advantage in speed of deployment and safety.
It’s time to kick off the weekend with a little practical humor. We hope that it brightens your day and if just one laughter results – mission accomplished. So, here we go…
5. No matter what the label says, the Chinese make it any way they want to.
4. Fine Merino really means that you can see your hand through it.
3. All you’re doing is making someone money so they can give enough of it to a college that their kids couldn’t otherwise get in to.
2. That great looking T-shirt that you paid $49.99 cost $5.00 to make.
1. Calvin Klein has no idea what you are talking about.
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Scientists at the U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, with the help of engineers at the U.S. Army Natick Soldier Research, Development, and Engineering Center, discovered that over-cooling the skin can slow heat loss, while under-cooling the skin results in greater strain on the heart. Both problems were minimized by allowing skin temperature to fluctuate narrowly using skin temperature itself to automate cooling.
A patent for body temperature regulation using skin temperature feedback was funded by the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command (MRMC) and awarded Nov. 23, 2010 (U.S. Patent No. 7,837,723). The new body temperature regulation approach is an MCC methodology for maximizing heat flux, minimizing physiological strain, and conserving battery power. Sensors within an MCC garment signal the need to provide or withdraw cooling based on an optimal skin temperature range determined empirically from laboratory experiments. A series of studies demonstrated that with this approach, heat extraction is optimized (similar to constant cooling), and power consumption is reduced by 40 to 50 percent.
The application and integration of this MCC method will decrease the size and weight of future MCC systems and make possible effective MCC for Soldiers mobilized on foot.
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Elbit System of America, a wholly owned subsidiary of Elbit Systems , Haifa, Israel was awarded a $9.6 million contract by the United States Marine Corps System Command at Quantico Marine Base, Virginia to build the Joint Terminal Attack Controller Laser Target Designator (JTAC LTD).
The JTAC LTD is a very lightweight, battery-powered laser target designator and marker. It is small enough to be carried by foot-mobile Marines, enabling Marines to designate targets for laser-guided munitions. The JTAC LTD incorporates Elbit Systems’ high performance miniaturized Rattler designator, currently in full-scale production and implemented to date on numerous airborne and ground based programs. The JTAC LTD also provides target hand-off to aircraft Laser Spot Trackers. The system incorporates the latest advances in laser generation and battery power technologies. The JTAC LTD features a high power near infrared laser pointer for targeting operations during nighttime conditions.
The project will be performed over a period of one year time, including production of the units, supplying spares, and conducting training. The contract also contains options for logistics support, which if exercised, will bring its value to $10.8 million
Nothing Says, “I Love You” More Convincingly than a Pile of Dead Presidents and U.S. Army’s Program Executive Office (PEO) Soldier loves ATK.
In a press release dated March 28, 2010 ATK (NYSE:ATK) announced that it had received a $65.8 million Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) contract, to continue development on the Army’s XM25, Individual Semi-Automatic Airburst System.
The XM25 consists of a rifle that fires a 25mm airbursting round that is programmed by the weapon’s integrated target acquisition and fire control system to detonate directly above an intended target. The system allows soldiers to quickly and accurately engage targets by displaying an adjusted aim point based on range, environmental factors, and user inputs. The weapon’s target acquisition and fire control integrates a thermal capability with direct-view optics, laser rangefinder, compass, fuze-setter, ballistic computer, laser pointer and illuminator. These capabilities enable the weapon to be used during day or night and in all-weather conditions.
The Army is currently conducting a forward operational assessment with XM25 prototype weapons deployed to Afghanistan. This effort began in November 2010. The Army’s Project Manager Soldier Weapons conducted new equipment training with select units and is monitoring the XM25’s use and performance. The weapons are actively carried on patrols and in various combat outposts in areas that are experiencing high levels of enemy activity. Soldier feedback from this assessment will assist future decisions regarding budget, tactics, basis of issue, and improvements soldiers want to see in the weapon’s fielded version.
ATK is the prime contractor and systems integrator for the XM25 program. Program management is headquartered at ATK’s Advanced Weapons Division in Plymouth, Minn. Program partners include Heckler & Koch, Sterling, Va. and L-3 Brashear, Pittsburgh, Pa.
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Streamlight, of Eagleville, PA continues its development of the highly successful TLR family of weapon-mounted lights with the introduction of the new TLR-VIR™.
The VIR, so designated because it offers visible and infrared light sources, adds new capabilities to Streamlight’s TLR weapon-mounted tactical lights.
Needless to say, I am ecstatic to have an opportunity to check it out real-time and hands on.
CEO Ray Sharrah and his team have done a tremendous job of producing and delivering a combat ready weapon mounted light that is both durable, and extremely flexible. If you’re in the market for IR illumination that won’t break your department’s budget, I invite you to look very closely at Streamlight’s TLR-VIR. It is one heck of light.
Now, if they could only bring to market a TLR-VIR that includes an IR laser. Hum, maybe they will and call it the TLR-VIR 2.
For our international readers, Kommando – International Special Operations Magazine, is one of the best international journals with a focus on special operations. They are based in Nuernberg, Germany with a U.S. office located in Mesa, AZ.
I ran across a K-ISOM video, courtesy of the Dutch Special Forces, depicting typical training scenarios. In this video, the Dutch group practices entries and CQC engagements and maritime tactics. It’s an excellent vid.
Finally got around to watching Green Zone last night. I didn’t make to the theater last March and I’ve been meaning to see it.
Matt Damon plays CWO Miller with the 82nd. His team’s mission is to locate WMDs in country. In the process, he crosses paths with a CIA officer and a State Dept suite, played by Greg Kinnear. Kinnear manages to leak classified raw intelligence to a Wall Street Journal reporter, to set up a story that there were WDMs in Iraq.
Matt Damon did a pretty good job of playing the part, and the technical aspects of the movie were believable. The story fed into the same conspiracy “BS” that the Bush administration created the WMD smoke screen to invade Iraq – a popular flavor of Kool-Aid dispensed by the liberal media.
If you don’t mind the ridiculous message, the movie was well done. No tits and motorcycles, but it’s worth the price of admission.
Received an e-mail from a reader asking if I was opposed to sound meter measurements.
The short answer is NO.
I am not opposed to that practice; however, I think the methodology used is flawed; were I designing a test scenario, my approach would be significantly different.
I would set up a test environment using nothing more than a chambered barrel of the following lengths for a 5.56×45 can: 10.5″ 14.5″ 16″ 20″ for 7.62×51 : 18″ 20″ 24″ 26″. This eliminates any action related noise so the suppressor is isolated for the measurement.
All testing would be done in an anechoic chamber.
I would fire 5 groups of 10 rounds each through each barrel. I would also measure the results with and without a suppressor installed, using the appropriate mounts. The reason for at least 10 data points is to be able to perform a normal statistical analysis.
If I were testing just for the military I would use their specific ammunition, for example M855A1, M80 or M118LR.
I would tabulate the suppressed and unsuppressed results for each of the barrel lengths and provide the following data:
Cartridge.
Barrel Length.
Unsuppressed measurement: db (SPL) ± (computed using normal statistics).
Suppressed measurement: db (SPL) ± (computed using normal statistics)
Sound attenuation: (Unsuppressed – Suppressed) expressed in dB.
Magpul Dynamics, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Magpul Industries Corp., has formally announced the addition of a precision rifle course to their already extensive training portfolio.
The Precision Rifle Training will be conducted by veteran Marine Scout Sniper Caylen Wojcik an Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran. In its formal announcement the company details Mr. Wojcik’s career:
“In addition to his role as an instructor at the Scout/Sniper Basic Course at Camp Pendleton, California, Caylen has real world operational experience in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. During his 2004 deployment, Caylen’s platoon executed hundreds of scout/sniper missions, and participated in Operation Phantom Fury; a full-scale assault on the insurgent-held city of Fallujah. Caylan sustained severe injuries as a result of enemy rocket fire during the assault on Fallujah, prematurely ending his career as a United States Marine.”
Magpul Dynamics has developed a reputation for its intense and innovative training approach. They have also significantly contributed to Magpul Industries’ R&D effort and they’re the engine behind many of the company’s solution based products.
I welcome the new offering and I can’t wait to check out the class syllabus.
I also want to wish Caylan the best of luck in his new venture and we all thank him for his service.
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In Part 4 of this series of articles, I dealt with some of the salient points of pistol caliber suppressors. I addressed mounting options and the recoil booster or LID.In this segment of the series, I’ll list a number of companies that have done pioneering work in the industry. All of these companies are small businesses that achieved success through innovation and perspiration. All of them, with some exceptions, began life in a garage or a tiny shop. Regrettably, they’re not global competitors because of restrictive ITAR regulations and business constraints outside their control. Their products are exceptional and their customer service world-class. You will hear them bashing each other’s products from time to time but that’s the entrepreneurial spirit; its effect has been an industry wide improvement in fabrication and materials.
It’s impractical, if not impossible, for me to list every suppressor manufacturer in the United States – they seem to be springing up everywhere- and my objective is to provide the reader with only a survey, not a directory of manufacturers.
I’m also omitting EU designers and manufacturers – and there are many excellent suppressors made in the EU.
I had a difficult time coming up with this list because there is no reliable source of market share and financial strength data; any claim of market position by the companies is not authoritative, and needs to be taken with a grain of salt. So, my criterion is subjective at best and reflects my opinion, and my opinion alone. The only systematic approach that I could take is to order the selected companies by longevity.
If I have offended someone by omitting your company or product, take two aspirin and call me in the morning. Rest assured that my decision is driven by practical constraints and does not make a negative statement of your product or company.
Before getting into the list, I’d like to deal with a topic that will come out in my survey, the concept of sound measurements and the decibel or db.
When dealing with point sources of sound pressure – such as the muzzle blast of a weapon – we measure sound pressure in decibels or db (SPL). Saying that a sound is 130db is a meaningless statement when dealing with a point source acoustic impulse, so sound levels should always be presented as ndb (SPL), for example 85dbSPL.
Individuals designing transducers, for acoustic reproduction, describe the transducer efficiency using a 1000HZ square wave at 1mw of power. In reading their specifications you’ll see that the transducer produced 80dbSPL or 85dbSPL, for example, so it follows that the transducer producing the higher ndb (SPL) is the more efficient, given the reference signal.
The next thing that I’d like to do is give you a feel for what a decibel is without getting into a mathematical treatise. A decibel is always referenced to a 1 milli-watt and it is a logarithmic scale and not linear. The example below should help you visualize the decibel
If I inject a 1milli-watt 2000Hz signal into a black box and I measure a .5 milli-watt 2000Hz signal on the output side of the black box, the black box has provided 3db of attenuation. If I then apply the .5mw 2000Hz output to the input side of the black box, my output will be .25 milli-watts, and we say that the original signal has been attenuated by 6db.
A good rule of thumb to have in the back of your head is that every 3db of attenuation approximately halves the power. On the other hand, if I measure the output at 2 milli-watts 2000Hz then the box has provided a 3db gain.
Saying that a suppressor provides 130db of attenuation is not a story that tells the entire tale. Variability in ammunition from lot-to-lot and round-to-round accounts for errors and I’ve yet to see suppressor specifications published as 130 ± xdb of attenuation. In fact, most measurements are made with less than 1o data points, so take published measurements with a grain of salt.
I believe that all suppressor sound signature attenuation level measurements should be taken in an anechoic chamber and the data should be stated as follows:
Cardtrige:
Unsuppressed: ndB (SPL)
Suppressed: ndB (SPL)
Attenuation: n ± x dB
Data points: y
Under no circumstance should attenuation values be your sole deciding criteria. Remember that a sound pressure meter is not the human ear, and the human ear is very sensitive to frequency and phasing. The point that I’m making is that shifting the phase of an acoustic wave may have a greater impact on our ability to detect the noise source than its amplitude.
The last point that I’d like to make is that many suppressor manufactures do not like discussing sound signature attenuation referenced in dB; their reluctance to quote dB of attenuation should not be a disqualifier.
With all of the above behind us, the table below represents my choices of top producers.
10. The only sex you’ve had is with your mistress.
9. Your wife can’t remember where she left the kitchen.
8. Everyone that works for you is your cousin.
7. You don’t see labor as a factor of production it’s really an act of generosity.
6. Your wife knows Chuck Shummer is shtupping Hilary, because she can see it in his face.
5. Your mother knew you would always end up this way.
4. You rename polyester, polyeli, and call it a miracle fabric.
3. You know that male underwear models use inserts so you’re entitled.
2. You’re the only one in your family that knows to achieve a 50% gross margin you need a 100% markup.
1. You’re over 50 and you still can’t drive to the grocery store without getting lost.
Disclaimer:
FOG HORN, nor any of its contributors is affiliated with either the Late Show or David Letterman, and we like it that way. As consumers, we feel that Dave and The Late Show (except for the orchestra) is a drag on human intellect; for that reason, going forward we will always refer to the “FOG HORN Top n Reasons, where n=10.” However, we reserve the right to let n = any real or imaginary number.
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When the HK416 first made its debut in 2005, it was generally believed to be the M4’s successor. The carbine uses the same form factor as the M4/M16 with the principal difference being its operating system. The HK416 uses a short stroke gas piston operating system that keeps bore gases from returning back to the receiver; thus greatly reducing fouling and heat related failures with the bolt group and buffer subsystems – a benefit that is particularly important when the carbine is operated suppressed.
It’s introduction sparked considerable interest in the commercial markets and HK responded with the announcement of the MR556 and MR762. After a prolonged wait the MR556 is now a reality. The carbine is in the retail channels and should be available for purchase from your dealer.
The MR556A1, tauts a 16.5 inch heavy contour barrel and an internal profile of 6 lands and grooves with a 1 in 7 inch twist, which should work well with the heavier match grade bullets in 69 gr, 75 gr and 77 gr.
HK’s presentation is not without its bit of fluff when they claim that the upper receiver to lower receiver fit contributes to the MR556A1 accuracy. If you’ve been around M16 and M4s for a while you know that accuracy is a function of the chamber and the barrel and this is by design to achieve the desired level of parts commonality.
In any event, here is Wayne Weber, President of HK USA making the announcement.
It’s sure to be a hot seller in spite of its ambitious $2995 MSRP
Had a couple of comments / e-mails commenting on sorties over Libya. I am no expert on tactics however I think I can summarize it for you.
In order for NATO forces to establish an enforceable no-fly-zone, NATO assets need to ensure that they have unrestricted access to the zone. It is therefore necessary to first incapacitate Libyan command and control, radar (long-range and fire control) installations, surface to air defenses and aircraft that could intercept and potentially engage NATO assets. The sorties are designed to accomplish just that, using cruise missiles and NATO aircraft. Once Libyan defenses have been suppressed, NATO can patrol the no-fly-zone, providing a buffer between the rebels and Libyan forces.
If successful, it creates an opportunity for a cooling down period so that a diplomatic solution can be implemented – doubtful given the actors in the region.
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As a courtesy to Surefire LLC, I’d like to publish their rebuttal to statements made by Force Science News regarding the safety of grip activated lights. These claims are typical of organizations that lack the experience and advance conference room arguments.
Surefire’s Response in its entirety.
Recently an article appeared in an email newsletter distributed by the Force Science News of the Force Science Institute, quoting its own Dr. Lewinski. The article and Dr. Lewinski make several troubling assertions that must be rebutted in the (long-term) interest of officer safety. The gist of the article and Lewinski is that grip-activated pistol-light switches are unsafe. I paraphrase (to clarify), quote, and respond to some of the more disturbing assertions below.
1)
You cannot train officers to keep their finger off the trigger under stress. According to the article, “…despite training to the contrary, officers in high-stress situations tend to move the finger onto the trigger…”
Response: If true, this has nothing to do with grip-switches, but it would support a ban on the use of firearms in general. But obviously, it is not true; officers can be trained to keep their fingers off the trigger in high-stress situations. If the fact were otherwise there would be thousands of unintended discharges each day.
2)
The device is unsafe. The article states, “At least twice in recent months the device has been associated with shootings in which officers reportedly said they thought they were turning on the flashlight…”
Response: In 1986 SureFire introduced the first light designed specifically for mounting on handguns. This light (equipped with remote switching) was quickly adopted by SWAT teams, including LAPD’s D-Platoon. In 2004 SureFire introduced the current X-Series WeaponLights, intended primarily for attachment to handguns. There are well over 100,000 SureFire X-Series lights and tens of thousands of optional grip-activated “DG” and “SL” switches in use today, and our competitors have sold hundreds of thousands of other pistol-mountable lights themselves. During this 24-year period the only reported safety-related incidents involving such lights are the two incidents mentioned above. These figures alone prove that SureFire WeaponLights, and weapon-mounted lights in general, are safe.
3)
According to the article, Lewinski asserts that, “…an officer pressing his middle finger against the flashlight switch pad will produce a sympathetic reaction in the index finger. If that finger happens to be inside the trigger guard and on the pistol’s trigger, the reaction may be forceful enough to cause an unintentional discharge.”
Response: Sympathetic Response is a real phenomenon, but it’s not the boogeyman and it can be addressed with training. Think about it: our trigger finger doesn’t magically pull the trigger when we use our thumb to manipulate the safety or the magazine release. Nor does the trigger finger unconsciously jump into action when we use our opposite hand to activate our radio, handheld flashlight, or pepper spray. The answer to Sympathetic Response is training and adherence to Rule #2 of The Four Basic Rules of Firearms Safety: Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on target and you are ready to fire.
And please note, if an officer experiences Sympathetic Response while his or her finger is on the trigger when it shouldn’t be there, it would not matter which light switch the officer is using, or whether the officer has a weaponmounted light at all. The point is, the officer’s finger is on the trigger when it shouldn’t be there.
4)
The article quotes Lewinski as saying, “When you think you’re doing one thing but are actually doing another, the result often is directly opposite of what you intended.”
Response: I believe he is referring to the phenomenon of reverting (under stress) from an intended action (activating the grip switch) to another action (pulling the trigger).
Let’s borrow Lewinski’s own analogy of drivers stepping on the gas pedal when they meant to step on the brake pedal. Can this happen? Of course, it’s called a mistake. Does every driver do it? No, in fact, most do not. Do trained drivers-such as highway patrolmen, or professional racecar drivers-make this mistake? No, not in any number that is statistically significant. Again, the issue here is training. You cannot make officers safer by taking away their equipment-you must provide them with adequate training.
Dr. Lewinski lists research as one of the services he provides. Yet-with the newsletter in question-he has published what most would assume to be a professional opinion-based on just two isolated incidents (out of 24 years of safe use) that he read about in news reports, incidents that are still under investigation and that he is not privy to at this time. While he may have conducted legitimate research regarding human dynamics during deadly force encounters, he does not appear to have done any research particular to SureFire products or the use of weapon-mounted lights. For that reason alone I find the article to be unprofessional and certainly not qualified to stand as an expert opinion.
I assume Lewinski is acting out of a real concern for officer safety-and not to generate future engagements as an expert witness. But I fear the article may actually have the opposite effect by frightening some administrations into depriving their officers of crucial safety tools. Regardless, Lewinski’s opinion is just that.
The greater issue is whether officers are provided adequate training to ensure they can safely use the tools they have. To address that issue I have attached a separate document, unconcerned with Dr. Lewinski’s opinions, entitled, Officer Training for Low-Light Conditions: A Matter of Life and Death.
It should be noted that Force Science News is a communications vehicle for the Force Science Research Center, of which Lewinski is the executive director. Quoting yourself in your own publication and referencing your own studies is questionable at best. And finally, the article ends with this statement: “Lawsuits have been filed in both shootings.” For clarification, SureFire has not been named in those lawsuits.
Respectfully,
Derek McDonald
Vice President of Marketing, SureFire
Relevant experience includes but is not limited to:
U.S. Navy Gunners Mate “A” and “C” schools
U.S. Navy Small Arms Instructor / Range Master
P.O.S.T. certified instructor of Officer Survival in Low-Light Conditions
SureFire Institute founding instructor cadre member
NRA Law Enforcement Tactical Handgun Instructor
Simunition Scenario & Safety Instructor
Hundreds of hours providing training to, and conducting informal interviews of, law enforcement officers with regard to lethal-force encounters, specifically as it relates to the use of low-light tactics and lighting tools
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The Hohenstein Institute is located a few kilometers north of Stuttgart. The Institute is a well-recognized interdisciplinary research facility. They’re also actively involved in the testing of textiles – testing and measuring the efficacy of these materials for specific applications.
In a press release dated March 15, 2011 titled ” Even Soldiers Have To Sleep: Thermophysiological Properties of Sleeping Bags” they address the European standard EN 13537; commenting on its applicability and potential adaptability to military applications.
The authors make a number of statements to the effect that users of sleeping systems should know the operating temperature range, which seems fairly obvious.
They also comment on the anthopometric differences between the average camper and a soldier operating in the field.
I think the point being made is that current standards, EN 13537 and EN 15537, do not fairly represent military requirements. However, in their view, the standard can be expanded or modified to take into consideration the physical and physiological differences between commercial and military use.
Part of the alleged reliability issues with the M4 carbine seem to stem from the absence of a systematic preventative maintenance program. Individuals change oil in their vehicles at 3 months or 15K miles, take the vehicle back to the servicing dealer for a periodic maintenance based on elapsed miles. We do that to ensure that catastrophic failures are prevented.
Weapon systems, require the same systematic approach and judicious field maintenance if they are to function reliably, so when FN announced the “Black Box” I felt it would provide the same functionality as an odometer; opening the door to a more systematic approach to weapon maintenance.
I recently reached out to FN for some details on the Black Box. I specifically requested that they not disclose proprietary information. Below, I’ve listed my questions with FN’s response.
FOG HORN: With regards to the Black Box’s operation. Is it acoustic or impulse (meaning that it detects the operation of the rifles action)?
FN:The FN Black Box uses a proprietary process that makes it independent of the recoil level; it is based on the analysis of the dynamic signature of the rifle. It has a bidirectional communication interface and can store maintenance operation data. Except for recording maintenance operations, it requires no operator input or action.
FOG HORN: I assume that it can be programmed for the weapon’s serial number.
FN: Yes
FOG HORN: How much data can it collect and is it stored in a circular file. If memory is full what happens?
FN: The FN Black Box is a molded module that features a non-replaceable battery with a recording capacity of 100,000 rounds. When the FN Black Box needs to be replaced, all data recorded on the FN Black Box can be saved so no data gets lost.
FOG HORN: Who is using them and in what quantities?
FN: Product currently under development.
FOG HORN: Is there a PC based application that collects the data., correlates it and provides analysis or diagnostic reports?
FN: A Data Collection Device (DCD) has been developed. It can reactivate the FN Black Box (in standby mode when not firing), read and/or download the data stored on the FN Black Box. An armorer software, currently under development, will allow analyses to be carried out for maintenance purposes, etc.
FOG HORN: Do you have a sample of the software and a shot counter that I could take a look at?
FN: Not currently.
I’d like to see the Black Box implemented and operational system wide because it’s the only way to ensure that critical system components are serviced or replaced using a systematic approach based on manufacturer’s RCBF (round count between failure) for all system components. Without a system in place that makes a proactive maintenance schedule feasible reliability issues will continue to be issues regardless of the weapon system.
I want to thank the folks at FN for helping us out with our query.
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In Part 3 of Suppressors – Current State of Technology, I talked about the importance of the mount. Single point mounts v. two point mounts and quick attach / detach. The take-away is the overshadowing requirement that whatever mounting arrangement you choose it secure the suppressor to the weapon and maintain suppressor to weapon concentricity under all operating conditions.
In Part 4, I’ll take you through the unique characteristics of pistol caliber suppressors and dispel some ridiculous notions.
Nothing conjures up images of sinister spies and hitmen running about the country side whacking people than a suppressed pistol, and Hollywood has, once again, convinced us that these devices are the tools of clandestine operators and assassins. Take for example agent Jack Bauer, in 24, played by Kiefer Sutherland, operative extraordinaire at the Counter Terrorist Unit based in L.A., of all places. Agent Jack’s favorite interrogation technique is to use a suppressed SIG to shoot the suspect in the kneecap. Well, I suppose if he weren’t doing that he’d be running around Atlanta’s Caribou Coffee Houses with, dad, Donald Sutherland.
Even more interesting than agent Jack is the concept of a suppressed revolver. How many times have you seen films where good and bad guys used suppressed revolvers? Suppressing a revolver has the same tactical advantage as installing a pay-toilet in a diarrhea ward.
Although manufacturers have gone to the extreme in making available tons of information dealing with suppressor technology, I still get 3 or 4 question a quarter from people asking what suppressor they should use with their S&W .38 special. That’s the power of misinformation.
The reality is that suppressors are not evil nor sinister, and many countries in the EU require sport shooters and hunters to use suppressed weapons.
Alright, so why can’t revolvers be suppressed? The reason a revolver cannot be effectively suppressed is that there’s a huge gap between the cylinder and the barrel, which allows hot gases to escape. The Russian made Nagant, M1895, is the only revolver that can be effectively suppressed. It uses a Belgian design that forms a gas seal between the cylinder and the barrel. When the hammer is cocked the cylinder moves forward creating a seal with the barrel, hence it can be suppressed. This made it popular with KGB operators and it was used throughout the Cold War era. Unless you own a Nagant M1895, please get over your desire to suppress your revolver.
I’d like to deal for just a moment with the sneaky clandestine reputation, and a picture is worth 1000 words.
Suppressed Glock 17
Allow me to call your attention to the bench’s leg, which is 1 inch stock. Using that as a reference we see that the suppressor has effectively added, approximately, 10 inches to the pistol’s 7.6 inch overall length; unless you’re planning to stick it down your left pant leg, and change your name to Disco-Duck, it’s not a real stealthy weapon. In fact, the system is so long that if you were using an isometric hold you probably wouldn’t be able to turn around in a narrow corridor.
Alright, let’s talk about the unique characteristics of pistol mounted suppressors.
The vast majority of pistols sold today are blow-back operated fixed barrel or Browning style actions where the barrel is unlocked and allowed to tip up. For example, SIG, Glock and 1911 pistols all use the Browning action. The barrel unlocks and the muzzle is allowed to tip up. The Walther PPK, some HK models (e.g. P7) and the Beretta 92/M9 (not exactly true but for our purposes let’s go along with it) use a fixed barrel. The barrel does not unlock and it stays in place with no tilting at the muzzle or breech.
This excellent animation of a 1911’s operation clearly shows the Browning style action. Note how the barrel unlocks and the breech drops to accept a new round.
Your pistol’s operating system drives your suppressor requirements.
Broadly speaking, a pistol’s suppressor can be made lighter using less robust materials because the pressures it deals with are much lower than a rifle. Manufacturer’s also build pistol caliber suppressors that can be interchangeably used on a submachine gun (SMG) and that will take the abuse of fully automatic fire. These designs will generally be heavier with fully welded cores making them more robust. Before you use a pistol caliber suppressor on an SMG or for fully automatic fire it is critically important that you speak with the manufacturer to ensure the design you plan to use will support fully automatic fire.
The vast majority of pistol suppressors thread directly on to the pistol’s muzzle and most pistols, that you plan to suppress, require that you order the weapon with a threaded and extended barrel. The thread patterns are caliber dependent and generally specific to that caliber, but assume nothing and make sure that your barrel is threaded to the suppressor manufacturer’s specifications. The barrel also needs to be extended so there is no contact between the suppressor and the pistol’s frame. Any contact between the two is dangerous and will impede the system’s operation. European thread patterns will generally be metric and left-hand.
Your pistol’s operating system, or action, will drive the type of mount used. Fixed barrel designs only need a mounting piston threaded to match the muzzle thread pattern. I favor the European metric , for example 13.5mm LH, patterns because they are very effective at resisting loosening of the suppressor while firing. The right hand twist, used in the barrel’s rifling, applies a left-handed torquing vector that keeps the suppressor tight on the muzzle.
Pistols that employ a Browning style action require a mount known as a Nielsen Device, recoil booster; there are a number of industry names for it, for example LID. None actually boost recoil.
SWR's LID
The LID’s function is to decouple the suppressor’s mass from the muzzle so that the tipping action of the barrel is not inhibited.
Let’s talk about the individual components illustrated in the picture above. The two cylindrical parts are called pistons. They are threaded on the long side to match the muzzle thread pattern. The piston fits into and is keyed to the housing – this is the large knurled component at the top. The piston slides into the housing short end first. The spring then slides over the piston and into the housing. Finally the threaded bushing slides over the piston and threads to the housing holding the entire assembly captive. When the pistol fires, gas pressure pushes against the blast baffle. This is the name for the first baffle it encounters in the suppressor tube. The initial impulse, compresses the spring in the LID and when the spring returns under its own pressure it lifts or decouple the suppressor’s mass from the muzzle so that it does not interfere with the action. With out a LID or recoil booster, the pistol would have to be cycled manually.
This video clip will help you visualize its operation.
You are now armed with sufficient information to understand the peculiarities of pistol caliber suppressors. As always, if you have any questions, post them or e-mail me directly and I’ll answer them for you.
In my next post, I’ll introduce you to several companies that I consider industry leaders. These are companies with a significant number of patents and posses the depth and breath to be serious players in the industry.
Retired Admiral Bobby Ray Inman was tapped to lead Xe Service’s board. Admiral Inman has had an extensive naval career and is considered by many to be one of the best intelligence officers in U.S. history.
Adm. Inman served as Director of Naval Intelligence from Sept. 1974 to Jul. 1976. He was Vice Chairman at DIA until 1977 and became Director of the NSA. His tenure at the National Security Agency lasted until 1981 when he became Deputy Director of the Central Intelligence Agency.
In addition to a brilliant military career and intelligence resume, Admiral Inman was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Microelectronics and Computer Technology Corporation (MCC) in Austin, Texas for four years and Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Westmark Systems, Inc., a privately owned electronics industry holding company for three years. Admiral Inman also served as Chairman of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas from 1987 through 1990.
Those of you waiting for the L.E.D. upgrade kits for the M2 and M6 family of weapon mounted lights, sources inside the company expect to start shipping them in April. The kits will also be available for online orders in that time frame.
It is a great way to get your M2 or M6 up to snuff.
In Part 2 of my “Suppressors – Current State of Technology” I covered subsonic ammunition, its common application and the requirements it places on both the operator and platform. I mentioned that due to its low-speed and weight, subsonic ammunition requires a relatively fast twist of 1:10 for a 7.62×51 caliber. Suppressors also require a precise alignment between the bore’s centerline and the suppressors centerline. Meaning that the bore and suppressor must be completely concentric. A failure to achieve concentricity will significantly degrade performance and in extreme cases can cause injury from baffle strikes. This YouTube video of a baffle strike should drive home my point. Watch the suppressor as the individual fires the rifle.
It’s the mounting system, that ensures concentricity and securely holds the suppressor in place. It is critically important to the successful implementation of a suppressor.
Threaded Barrel - Single Point Mount.
Broadly speaking, suppressor mounts fall in one of two categories, single point or two point mounts.
When we use a single point mount we screw (or quick attach) the suppressor directly to the muzzle or use a purpose-built mount – for quick attach/detach support.
Surefire’s MB556K serves both as a muzzle brake and a suppressor quick attach/detach mount.
The defining characteristic of a single point mount is that the suppressor is held or supported at a single point.
One of the issues associated with a single point mount is that painstaking steps must be taken to ensure concentricity of the bore to the suppressor or the quick attach/detach mount.
Made by Advanced Armament Company - Note the ACME thread pattern just forward of the notched spring mount. This particular mount functions as a flash hider and a suppressor quick attach/detach mount.
Single point mounts are also susceptible to jarring loose and creating a potentially hazardous situation. For example, thread on suppressors will loosen under fire and need to be periodically tightened on the muzzle. Quick attach suppressors use ratchets and other mechanical systems to keep the suppressor from working its way loose; because of their more complex nature, failures of the spring locking mechanism can occur.
Single point mounts are also more susceptible to accidental misalignment resulting from a shock or impact to the mounted suppressor; for example, a hard smack against a wall could potentially change the suppressor’s alignment with the weapon.
In the plus column, single point attachments are generally simpler to manufacture and when QA mounts are used the operator has the flexibility to easily remove the suppressor from the muzzle for compactness.
Two point mounts are considered to be self aligning.
A two point mount aligns to the barrel using muzzle threads and a bushing that’s fitted to the barrel such that the suppressor slips over the barrel.
The distinct advantages of the two-point mount is that it is self aligning, it provides a massive expansion chamber and it extends only a few inches past the weapon’s muzzle. If the weapon receives a hard smack at the muzzle, the suppressor is more likely to retain its alignment to the bore.
Single Point Mount (top) v. Two Point Mount (overall weapon length comparison)
Its disadvantage is that it will form condensation more readily, due to its larger expansion chamber, and can not be quickly removed or attached because it has to be screwed on to the muzzle and/or a secondary mounting collar.
One example of a two point system currently used by the U.S. Army is the Knight’s Armament Company M110 SASS. The system uses a thin suppressor that slips over the barrel and locks against the A2 bird-cage and to a collar downstream from the muzzle.
Suppressed M110
Illustration of two point mounting arrangement. Note the collar behind the muzzle. The suppressor slips over and threads on to the muzzle device while the collar or bushing supports the suppressor at the second point. This arrangement is self-aligning and makes concentricity achievable without matching suppressor and barrel thread patterns.
Your choice on the mount type is ultimately driven by operational requirements; however, whatever mounting arrangement you select it must secure the suppressor so that it is mechanically concentric with the rifle or pistol bore. My personal preference is the two point mount because of its self-aligning and its resistance to shocks or impacts. There are a number of excellent quick attach / detach mounts on the market; however, as part of your testing criteria be sure to expose the mount and suppressor to shock and confirm concentricity before you make your decision.
In Part 4 I’ll conclude the “background” segment with a discussion of the unique aspects of pistol caliber suppressor.
I spent a large part of my military career conducting SIGINT and COMINT and there’s probably not much in the r.f. spectrum through Ku band that eludes me; I also have a thorough understanding of the IP stack and routing.
A few months ago I decided to sit down and write an article, or two, on JTRS (Joint Tactical Radio System) if for no other reason than to gain an understanding of it. I am finally at the point where I “think” I can discuss it with some degree of authority; especially, reducing it to a non-technical level, so that non-technical folks get a better understanding of it than the average bear.
In the weeks to come, I’ll be discussing the concept of software definable communications equipment, waveforms, multi-protocol and ad hoc networks. I’ll also try to deal with the issue of spectrum requirements and its availability – or perhaps the better question is where will it come from.
Our friends at Soldier Systems Daily are the definitive internet source for gear and apparel.
This morning I read a post that is worthy of repeating if for no other reason than to amplify its impact. The subject is FR clothing and the testimonial was enlightening.
Magpul Industries has redesigned their highly successful polymer MBUS sights and is now shipping a Gen 2 version of the product.
The Gen 2 MBUS is fully compatible with any Milspec 1913 Picatinny rail. The new sights have a slimmer profile so they stow nicely under your primary optics.
The rear sight is adjustable for windage and utilizes small, large and the NAWS (No aperture window sight) apertures.
The Front Gen 2 MBUS is not compatible with railed gas blocks.
I like these sights because they reduce weight and they integrate well with your primary sights. Check them out…
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Last week I began our suppressor discussion by giving the reader a high level view of what a suppressor is, what it does and does not do, and what benefits accrue from using a suppressor. I said that the two most significant components of weapon related noise is the muzzle blast and ballistic crack, which you may recall is the noise made by the bullet flight as it breaks the sound barrier. I also mentioned that subsonic ammunition is often used to mitigate the risk of producing a ballistic crack. Additionally, I spoke about the possibility of subsonic ammunition generating a ballistic crack given the suppressor’s free bore boost and prevailing atmospheric conditions.
In this segment, I’d like to discuss subsonic ammunition in greater detail to provide the reader with a deeper understanding of the subject.
Two components contribute to a bullets lethality; they are the cross-sectional area of the bullet – larger calibers produce greater tissue damage – and kinetic energy, which is the energy of the projectile on target impact. Kinetic energy provides the penetration and fragmentation necessary to enhance effectiveness. The equation for kinetic energy is k= (m*v²)/2.
A full power .308 load leaves the muzzle at 2600 fps, and as it travels through its flight path it remains above the speed of sound until it has traveled a distance of approximately 1100 yards or more. Because it travels faster than sound, it produces a loud crack that can be detected easily by the human ear or sensors.
To mitigate the probability of detection, subsonic ammunition is sometimes used. Because the velocity of the round is reduced from 2600 fps to 1050 fps manufacturers increase the mass of the projectile; doing so will preserve the rounds terminal ballistics. Referring back to the kinetic energy formula we can readily see that when velocity is reduced kinetic energy is reduced; so, to maintain an effective level of kinetic energy we increase the projectile’s mass from 175 grains to 220 grains or 240 grains.
RUAG Swiss P manufactures extremely high quality subsonic ammunition. It is, by far, the best I’ve ever tested in terms of consistency and vertical spread across a wide range of ambient temperatures.
Using subsonic ammunition places additional requirements on both the operator and platform, so it needs to be approached cautiously.
Because a heavier projectile is used, the barrel’s rifling needs to be no slower than 1:11, and preferably 1:10. Using rifling that is slower than 1:11 will fail to stabilize the round and may result in a baffle strike. Should the bullet impact against the suppressor, or its baffle stack, injury to the shooter or those in the surrounding area could result.
In addition to rifling requirements, subsonic ammunition when used in semiautomatic weapons like the M110 SASS, SCAR Mk 17, or HK 417 will generally fail to cycle the action reliably. This is true for a gas piston operating system or direct gas impingement.
Finally, subsonic ammunition is designed for use in short-range engagements. Internet stories of 900 yard shots with subsonic ammunition are either showmanship or sea stories. Subsonic ammunition requires that the operator take up a firing position that is 300 meters or less from the target’s position.
RUAG Swiss P 240 grain .308 Subsonic
In next week’s post, I talk about mounting technologies and discuss some of the pro’s and con’s.
The TLR-VIR™ is the product of a continuum of Streamlight’s TLR series development. It’s also the light that won the company a $4 million order from the Defense Logistics Agency’s Special Operational Equipment Tailored Logistics Support Program. The order was placed on behalf of the U.S. Army’s Program Executive Office (PEO), the acquisition agency for the Army.
This month I’ll complete a review of this exceptional weapon mounted light.
The 1000m/W IR illuminators was amazing.
Mounting and operation is equally impressive but I don’t want let the cat out of the bag until I’ve completed work on the full review.
I am a type “A” personality and with that comes taking ownership of mistakes. You’ll never hear me say “that I was missed informed”; as you’ll see, I am not perfect but I don’t give up.
Nearly two years ago, while at a SOFIC Conference, I ran across two companies whom I thought had some interesting products – Sealskinz and OTB (now a New Balance Company) boots. I was completely high – still am – on OTB’s concept, and in particular their line of SAR (Search and Rescue) sadly missing from their current catalog.
My plan was to test both products concurrently and both Sealskinz and OTB sent me a T&E sample, for the review – thank you both.
My review was to consist of wearing the Sealskinz waterproof socks and the OTB SAR boot, jumping in the pool at Piedmont Park, do a little combat swim, then exit the pool and hit the 800 meter track just outside the pool area. My objective was to validate the waterproof sock, the boot drainage system and its ability to keep out dirt and the small debris that I would encounter while running the 800 meter.
I approached the pool management about the review and asked for permission to come in 30 minutes prior to opening, with a photographer, to do the swim. The pool manager looks at me like I was crazy and asked me what I meant by a combat swim. She immediately directs me to city government who most likely had me followed around by behavioral scientists. Mind you, this is the same pool that every wino uses as a urinal after midnight so you’d think they would like to get the press. Nope, not happening!
Ok, do I stick my foot in a bucket filled with water and call it a test. Nope, not me I am a type “A” remember.
I waited for a response from the City of Atlanta for several months, Nada.
I then approached LA Fitness. I sat with the manager and asked if they’d allow me to use the pool – a nice 50 meter pool. I told him that I’d like to come in early in the a.m. or late at night with a photographer. The manager looks at me like I am nuts, until it sinks in that I was doing a review. He then says sure, but I can’t let you take pictures. Why not I said! I pleaded with the guy that this would take place when no one was in the pool – No go! It was no problem to jump in the pool with the SAR boots and swim a couple of laps but pictures were out. OK, go figure!
I followed up my meeting with the local manager with a call to LA Fitness Corporate – no pictures!
It is now a couple of years later and I think that I’ve finally found a pool that will let me do this. Too early to say just yet but I am keeping my fingers cross.
To Sealskinz and OTB the review will be done and my sincerest apologies for the delay; the saga continues.
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Boston Dynamics has been in the sensor based robotics business since its founding in 1992. They have worked on a number of projects for the DoD, among its development efforts is the Petman robot currently in use testing Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) protective clothing.
Petman circa 2009
Army Technology.com reported that the company has been awarded a multi-million dollar contract to develop a new robot, the Cheetah, capable of outrunning the fastest man on Earth, and a Terminator-type android, Atlas robot, that will work alongside troops…”
According to Army Technology.com, “the four-legged Cheetah will have a flexible spine, articulated head, and will be able to sprint, take sharp corners, zigzag and reach speeds of 20mph-30mph.
“The Atlas robot will have a body, two arms, two legs and no head and will be able to walk over rough terrain, fit through tight gaps and crawl on its hands and knees if needed.”
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A couple of years ago I wrote a three-part series for Sniperworx.com on suppressors. Late in 2010, I got a couple of requests for a survey; the individuals were looking for recommendations; however, FOG HORN doesn’t endorse or make recommendations. Instead, we approach any given product or technology on its own merit and compare it to what we view as minimum requirements. If it meets that criteria then it meets it.
With that in mind I’ll get started with the task at hand, which is to provide an overview of suppressor technology – 2011, and who the players are. Look for one article per week on suppressors and the current state of technology.
In this week’s piece, I’ll provide a background of what suppressors do and how they do it, and why suppressors are used
Suppressors are not silencers and silencers are figments of Hollywood’s imagination. A suppressor is a tube that attaches to the muzzle of a firearm, made of varying lengths and diameters, housing internal components and materials broadly referred to as baffles. A suppressor traps hot high pressure gases exiting the weapon’s muzzle, reducing pressure and temperature sufficiently to reduce or eliminate muzzle blast. It accomplishes the task using a series of chambers separated by baffles; which allow hot gasses to expand and cool. The baffle also disrupts and adds resistance to the expanding gas so that it drops in energy. Fore example, a 5.56 round generates an excess of 50,000 psi in the chamber and bore, a suppressor will act on that gas to reduce its temperature and velocity so that gas pressure, at the exit point, is in the order of 30 to 20 psi; thus reducing or eliminating the muzzle blast. In order for a suppressor to be highly effective its internal volume must be 20 to 30 times larger than the weapon’s bore internal volume. Therefore, shorter suppressor will usually be larger in diameter and longer suppressor will have a smaller diameter.
A weapon’s sound signature comes from the weapon’s muzzle blast, the noise generated by the weapon’s action and ballistic noise. Ballistic noise is the loud crack made by the projectile in-flight as it travels above the speed of sound. A suppressor does nothing to eliminate the weapon’s action noise nor will it alter the projectiles ballistic crack. The only way to eliminate ballistic crack is to use subsonic ammunition, this is a load that will keep the muzzle velocity below the speed of sound.
An important point to note, when discussing ballistic crack, is that the speed at which sound propagates is not a constant of 1100 fps. It is dependent on atmospheric conditions – principally temperature, relative humidity and barometric pressure; so, it is possible that you will still experience ballistic crack when firing a subsonic round – this has happened to me on more than one occasion.
Most subsonic rifle loads are designed to deliver 1030 to 1050 fps in muzzle velocity when fired through an unsuppressed bore; however, when you install a suppressor they will pick up, on average, an additional 20 to 40 fps in velocity – this phenomenon is called freebore boost. So, a round loaded to 1050 fps will exit the suppressor at 1070 to 1090 fps, or more. If atmospheric conditions are such that sound propagates at a lower speed, you will experience ballistic crack.
Therefore, the primary function of a suppressor is to reduce or eliminate muzzle blast; however, there are secondary benefits. Suppressors, in most designs, will eliminate muzzle flash, reduce recoil and reduce dust signature. Since they reduce or eliminate muzzle blast, they remove a loud noise point source making ballistic crack and weapon action noise hard to localize.
When considering suppressors the requirements at the top of the list are muzzle blast and muzzle flash elimination or reduction, and all else is secondary.
In my next posts, I’ll expand on my closing sentence; giving it the explanation it deserves. Because mounting options, recoil reduction and other benefits deserve amplification and discussion.
I run across a lot of stuff at Fog Horn but when I came across Colgate’s Wisp, I said to myself, man I wish I had a few of these in my pack.
Folks that spend a large part of their lives moving about the countryside know, all too well, that basics like shaves and haircuts, and oral hygiene become secondary considerations. I remember times where my mouth literally felt like grunge; it’s a crappy feeling but there’s not much that can be done – Enter Colgate’s Wisp.
This tooth-brush requires no water for brushing or rinsing. It comes pre-seeded with a breath freshener, and at the opposite end of the brush, there’s a pick that actually does a decent job at removing mild calculus.
The active ingredient is Capric/caprylic triglycerid, which is a medium chain triglyceride with an indefinite shelf life.
Wisp appears to have no anti-bacterial properties but if you fill a pint-sized bottle with water and then add a cap of Clorox bleach to it, you’ll have the best mouthwash that you’ll ever come across. The solution is a broad spectrum prophylaxis that will keep your mouth free from bacteria and your gums looking great.
Wisp is not intended to substitute a normal brushing regimen but if you just can’t get it done, this little brush will help you feel like you’re alive again.
I often find myself searching for words when discussing Glock’s. Its utilitarian design and total absence of elegance would make it “The People’s Handgun” if we only had one choice in life. But, how does one improve on perfection.
In production since 1982, Glock has delivered a line of “Safe Action Pistols” that allowed it to capture over 60% of the law enforcement market. Each generational upgrade didn’t involve groundbreaking technology but rather simple modifications to improve grips and texture. Gen 2, for example, consisted of adding chequering on the strap and serrations to the back strap. Gen 3 changes were a bit more substantive with the addition of an accessory rail, thumb rests (port and starboard) and finger grooves on the front strap. In 1997 or 1998, if memory serves me, Glock introduced a redesigned extractor that doubled as a loaded chamber indicator. Glock also increased the size of the locking block and added an extra pin just above the trigger.
Now, in the Gen 4 design, Glock reduced the size of the grip and wisely gave us the option to change out the back strap. The smaller grip size required a redesign of the trigger housing, which placed the trigger closer to the grip making it more comfortable for shooters with smaller hands.
Redesigned Recoil Spring Assembly
In Gen 4 Glock also introduced a redesigned recoil spring assembly that incorporates a dual recoil spring arrangement originally found in their compact models. The company feels that it reduces felt recoil – a claim that is highly subjective. The measurable benefit of the new recoil spring assembly is the reduction of stree related frame failures; thus extending the service life of the polymer frame.
I wish there were more I could say but it’s a Glock!
Rockwell Collins unveiled its MicroGRAM GPS receiver, which is 90 percent smaller than the earlier version of its Miniature Precision Lightweight GPS Receiver Engine SAASM (MPETM-S). The size reduction means that equipment such as handheld radios, ruggedized field computers, laser range finders, gun scopes and small unmanned aircraft can be equipped with secure GPS capability.
MicroGRAM’s unique security features are the result of designing a rugged product that leverages Rockwell Collins’ strong legacy in providing Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM) capabilities to our warfighters. Engineered to minimize its footprint and power usage, the MicroGRAM (GPS Receiver Application Module) has also been optimized to allow rapid acquisition of the GPS satellites when the power is first supplied to it.
Even more interesting than a GPS equipped rifle scope is the possibility for smaller tagging and tracking devices.
FN Herstal debuted impressive new technology at IDEX 2011. Among the new offerings is the Fire Control Unit. It turns what used to be an art form into a repeatable and accurate process.
Those of you equipped with M203 40mm tube grenades know all to well that achieving repeatable accuracy is easier said that done. That changes with the availability of the FN FC-1.5M.
The sight is equipped with a laser range finder and an inclinometer. It accurately determines a range to the target and inclination or declination angle. That data is fed to an onboard ballistic calculator which determines the exact aiming solution. The aiming reticle actually shifts in the display so that the operator simply places the crosshairs over the target and fires the projectile.
As of this writing, I don’t have an assessment of how many, if any, are in service.
If you have that information or have used the FC-1.5M, chime in and share your thoughts.
We Americans traditionally, and innocently in the majority of cases, have disregarded cultural differences; as a result, we’ve been viewed as rude and insensitive or poorly educated. It’s no one’s fault, that’s just the way we’ve grown up, right, wrong or indifferent.
About a year ago, I kicked off a cultural awareness tweet (@Twobirdsflying) on Twitter. It’s intended to raise awareness of the need for becoming more culturally tuned; done in a humorous way.
The U.S. Army, specifically, USASOC sees it the same way and has made significant investments in training the SFGs to be more culturally aware. Culturally aware operators are better prepared to meet mission demands.
For example, your team has been ordered to infiltrate a small Cuban town. Your infil was brilliantly executed and no one knows you are in-country. Unexpectedly you run across a Cuban militia, do you light’em up or do you rely on your cultural awareness to overcome the obstacle?
Theoretical Cuban Militia
If you’ve been following my Cuban cultural awareness tweets, You know that you can rely on the word “conyo” to get you through quite a few situations by simply changing your inflection. However, when we combine the word “conyo” with the expression “Ave Maria” you have an incredibly powerful combination that will make your infiltration like butta.
What makes this so powerful is that “Ave Maria” is something you’ve heard at church all your life so it’s easy to remember; requiring no language schools. The key is pronunciation and inflection, if you sound like you’re from Connecticut you blew it.
To help you with that I’ve added an audio clip. By the way, this will also work on a comm channels under general chatter.
As you practice, relax and be natural; don’t try sounding like Tony Montana in Scarface.
To effectively use Ave Maria – Conyo, walk past the guard, smile, it helps if you have your shirt’s top two or three buttons open, and let the words just roll of the tip of your tongue. This will work even if she has a male partner. Strolling is important as to maintain a casual and relaxed appearance.
Have a great day, enjoy what you’re doing and may life shower you with the best it has to offer…
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FOG HORN 