FOG HORN

Daniel Defense Revamps Law Enforcement Packages

Posted on Tuesday, 3 July, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Beginning July 2, 2012, Daniel Defense will equip its four LE Packages with gear widely approved by police departments and other law enforcement agencies. Each of the four configurations will include a Daniel Defense DDM4 rifle, sling, magazines and protective rifle case. The four packages are as follows: Patrol Rifle Package (PRP), Designated Marksman Package (DMP), Lightweight Package (LWP), and Special Services Package (SSP). “The configuration changes to the Daniel Defense Law Enforcement Packages are a direct result of user feedback, improving the usability of the firearms and pairing our DDM4 rifles with premium accessories such as the Aimpoint PRO and Leupold Mark 4”, says Jay Duncan, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Daniel Defense.

The Daniel Defense Patrol Rifle Package has been assembled to provide officers the perfect general-purpose system. The package includes the signature Daniel Defense DDM4v1 with Cold Hammer Forged M4-profile barrel, the newly designed DDM4 Rail™ 12.0 FSP, Daniel Defense CNC-machined front sight base, and Daniel Defense Flash Suppressor. It comes accessorized with the Aimpoint Patrol Rifle Optic (PRO), fixed A1.5 rear site, (3) 30-round PMAGS and Vickers Combat Applications Sling™.

The Designated Marksman Package (DMP) is a versatile, multi-purpose platform that can be used for close quarters applications as well as precision medium range target engagement. This arrangement includes the DDM4v7, equipped with an 18” Cold Hammer Forged, S2W® barrel, Daniel Defense Flash Suppressor, 3.5-10x40mm Leupold Mark 4/LR/T rifle scope as a primary optic, and MAGPUL MBUS® flip-up front and rear backup sights. It also includes (3) 30-round PMAGS and Vickers Combat Application Sling™.

The Daniel Defense Lightweight Package (LWP) includes a DDM4v5 LW with a Cold Hammer Forged 16” Lightweight barrel, the newly designed DDM4 Rail™ 12.0 and mid-length gas system, as well as a Daniel Defense Flash Suppressor. The LWP also comes with an Aimpoint Patrol Rifle Optic (PRO), fixed front & rear sights, (3) 30-round PMAGS, and Vickers Combat Application Sling™.

The Daniel Defense Special Services Package (SSP) features Daniel Defenses’ factory short barrel rifle (SBR) kit they have assembled for use by SWAT, SSU, Gang, Warrant Service, under cover and other specialized enforcement units. The heart of this package is the Special Services Rifle with 11.5” Cold Hammer Forged government-profile barrel, DDM4 Rail™ 9.0, and Daniel Defense Flash Suppressor. The Aimpoint Patrol Rifle Optic (PRO) is included as well as Fixed Front & Rear Sites, (3) 30-round PMAGS and Vickers Combat Application Sling™.

Daniel Defense offers each of these law enforcement packages at a significant discount to all current, credentialed law enforcement professionals and comes with a limited lifetime warrantee.

Posted in Weapon systems | Tagged carbine, Daniel Defese, DD, DDM4, LE, rifle | Comments Off

Army May Default To MultiCam As The New UCP

Posted on Saturday, 30 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

It is by design that I don’t write about camouflage; I do that for two reasons. First there are other web sites that will do a much better job of it than I will. Second, the concept of a “universal camouflage pattern” is naive. About two years ago, I wrote and editorial piece on the subject. I’ll summarize it for you by saying that our planet has such diversity that to effectively camouflage, even in a small geographical region, you may need several patterns and colors.

You can dress up servicemen and women as chocolate chip cookies, if you so desire, for in garrison uniform of the day, but combat uniforms must reflect, as tightly as possible, the AO. I think its high time the Army stop throwing millions at a problem that has no singular solution, and it looks like that may happen.

Matthew Cox of Military.com reports on the Army’s Recommendation that Multicam become the new Universal Camouflage Pattern or UCP.

Candidly, A-Tacs gets my vote for a highly effective pattern but would I call it universal, absolutely not. UCP is a concept that sounds good from a managerial perspective but it remains unattainable until reactive camouflage technologies come of age.

Posted in Apparel | Tagged A-TACS, ACU, BDU, Multicam, UCP | Comments Off

Congress Doesn’t Think The Pentagon Needs So Many Bands.

Posted on Friday, 29 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

The United States Congress has approved an amendment to the 2013 Defense Authorization Bill authored by Rep Betty McCollum (D-MN) to limit DoD funding of military bands to $200 million. If it makes it through Congress, it could save $188 million.

In a statement placed in the Congressional Record, McCollum said: “Over the past four years, taxpayers have spent $1.55 billion for the Pentagon’s 150 military bands and more than 5,000 full-time, professional military musicians…. At a time of fiscal crisis the Pentagon will have to get by spending only $200 million for their musical arsenal.”

The DoD’s appetite for musical extravaganzas was first brought to light under Secretary Gate’s watch but no action was taken.

Rep McCollum working in concert with Rep. Jack Kingston (R-GA) is also moving to eliminate all Pentagon spending to sponsor professional or semi-professional sports, including auto racing. Some $80 million was spent on sports sponsorship this year, including $26 million by the National Guard to place its logo on Dale Earnhardt Jr’s NASCAR vehicle, as well as on his uniform and those of his racing team. That amendment was also attached to the 2013 Defense Authorization Bill .

Currently, the Army has 99 bands, which they plan to fund to the “tune” (no pun intended) of $221.1 million for FY 2013. If approved, it will be an increase of $3.3 million from this year level. The Navy has 14 bands that will cost an estimated $55.6 million next year, while the Marine Corps has 12 bands that will cost $53.6 million in 2013.

Our question is how relevant to maintaining an all volunteer force are sport’s advertising and military bands?

Posted in Morale Builders | Tagged 2013, Betty McCollum, Defense Authorization Bill, DOD, Jack Kingston, Pentagon | Comments Off

ReconRobotics To Supply Throwbot XTs To U.S. Army.

Posted on Friday, 29 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

ReconRobotics makers of the Throwbot XT, an amazing throwable miniature robot, was awarded a $13.9 million contract by the U.S. Army’s Rapid Equipping Force for up to 1,000 miniature, throwable, mobile robots.

The Throwbot XT has been in use for sometime by 500 police and security agencies, including the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms and the U.S. Marshals for tactical reconnaissance in high-risk operations. The U.S. Army plans to similarly employ Throwbots in four and five man fire teams to provide the teams with real-time tactical information while conducting urban operations.

The Throwbot XT can be thrown up to 120 feet and weighs just a hair over a pound, so the entire system is easily transportable in a pack. It has built in IR capabilities and can be easily manuverable is very close quarters and crawl spaces.

I had an opportunity to experience its capabilities first had at SOFIC 2012 in Tampa.

Posted in ISR, Robotics | Tagged miniature, Recon Scout XT, RecoRobotics, Robot, surveillance, Throwbot XT | Comments Off

Zombie Max™ Ammo Plant being auctioned to benefit HAVA

Posted on Thursday, 28 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Hornady Manufacturing® is offering an opportunity to bid on the second of only two unique Zombie Max™ Ammo Plants in an online auction, with all proceeds benefiting Honored American Veterans Afield (HAVA), a nonprofit organization that helps disabled combat veterans transition back to their lives in the United States, through active participation in hunts, shooting sports, and other outdoor activities. The online auction will be held on www.gunsamerica.com from June 28 through July 19, 2012. Bidders can get a firsthand look at the Zombie Max™ Ammo Plant during “Pandemic 2012,” a 3-gun shoot, June 29 through July 1, at Heartland Public Shooting Park in Grand Island, Nebraska. The winning bidder will be notified immediately after the auction closes.

The features of this reloader are identical to the new Hornady® Lock-N-Load® Ammo Plant, with one key difference; the Zombie Max™ version has been designed to complement Hornady’s limited-time Zombie Max™ ammunition. Its green paint and “zombified” graphics were crafted by Hornady® Tool Division workers. The presses were created as a surprise for the company’s President and Vice President, Steve and Jason Hornady, as a way to build excitement for the release of the Zombie Max™ line. The Hornadys then commissioned two more presses be built and autographed by Steve Hornady for public auction to benefit charity. The first press was donated to benefit USA Shooting, and now the second and last in the series will go to benefit HAVA. Details about the tool’s features and technical abilities can be found on the Hornady® website at http://www.hornady.com/store/Lock-N-Load-Ammo-Plant-110-VT. The retail version of the Lock-N-Load® Ammo Plant sells for $1,330

Posted in Alerts, Ammunition | Tagged HAVA, Hornady, Zombie, Zombie Max | Comments Off

Masterpiece Arms Adds MPA5700SST Defender Carbine To Its 5.7 x 28 mm Line.

Posted on Thursday, 28 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

The folks at Masterpiece Arms have been reaping the rewards that flow from entrepreneurship and innovation. Its Defender series of firearms is a classical example of what can be achieved when you offer a quality product at reasonable prices. Masterpiece Arms has demonstrated that it is possible to dispense with the fluff yet have a superior firearm; one example of that is their MPA57sst 5.7x28mm pistol. Shortly after its introduction, the MPA57sst took the market by storm. Such was its success that the company has now added the complementary MPA5700SST Defender carbine chambered in 5.7 x 28mm.

The 5.7 x 28mm has been a somewhat controversial round since first introduced by FN Herstal for their FN Five-seveN® and P90 weapon systems. SS190, as designated by FN, became know as the “cop-killer” bullet, in Washington circles, due to its alleged ability to penetrate Level II & III body armor. FN’s initial offering addressed the need for a PDW that could easily be carried by pilots, flight crews or mounted soldiers. The 5.7 x 28 mm remains an extremely practical approach to a requirement for a high velocity, low recoil, limited range round that can be loaded in large capacity magazines. As it turns out, it is quiet an effective flat shooting varmint round for ranges up to 200 meters.

MPA5700SST Specifications

Side Cocker, Scope Mount
one (1) 16″ Threaded Barrel
one (1) 20 Round Polymer Magazine
one (1) Muzzle Brake
Thread Size 1/2 x 28
American Made
Ships in Gun Case
Lifetime Guarantee
MPA Low Profile Buttstock
MPA Aluminum Quadrail
Adjustable Front Sight
Chamber: 5.7x28mm
MSRP: $795.99

Posted in pistols, Weapon systems | Tagged 5.7x28, carbine, Defender, MasterPiece Arms | 2 Comments

ATN Announces The PS7 Night Vision Goggle.

Posted on Wednesday, 27 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

ATN, San Francisco, CA, has announced the ATN PS7 night vision goggle, a lightweight high-performance night vision goggle. The ATN PS7 can be used as a hand-held goggle, or head-mounted with the hands-free, flip-up, head mount assembly that comes standard with the goggle, or also used as a helmet-mounted model with an optional MICH or PAGST helmet mount kit. The multi-coated all glass optics also feature a Sacrificial Window that shields the optics from sand or debris that may scratch the lens. The ATN PS7 is available in several high-resolution image intensifier tube configurations. The goggles ship with an infrared dual-focus wide-angle illuminator that lets you see in total darkness.

ATN PS7 FEATURES

Available in 4 different Image Intensifier tube configurations
Hands-free usage
Comfortable, easy-to-adjust headgear
Flip-up headgear
Easy to use digital controls
Multi-coated all-glass optics
Water and fog resistant
3x, 5x and 8x lenses available (optional)
Limited Two-Year Warranty
Total Darkness IR System
Proshield Lens Coating
Infrared Illuminator
Uses one (1) 3V Lithium CR123A or one (1) 1.5 AA battery

Posted in Night Vision Technology | Tagged ATN, flip-up, goggles, head, head-mounted, IR, night vision, PS7 | 1 Comment

Top Attack Helicopters In The World

Posted on Sunday, 24 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

The Defense Media has come out with a list of the top attack helicopters. What positively blows me away is that they left the Mi-24 Hind of the list, and instead chose the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s multirole Light Combat Helicopter (LCH).

Here they are for all the closet rotary wing guys – You know who you are!

Eurocopter Tiger

Mi-28 Havouc

Ka-50 Black Shark

AH-64 Apache Longbow

AH-1Z Viper / Super Cobra

AW129 multi-role helicopter

HAL Light Combat Helicopter (LCH)

Mi-24 Super Hind (My Choice Over HAL LCH)

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged AH-1Z, AH-64, Apache, AW-129, Eurocopter, HAL, Hind, Ka-50, LCH, Mi-28, Viper | Comments Off

Insight M3 & M6 Owner’s Can Recapitalize This Outstanding Light At A Low Cost.

Posted on Sunday, 24 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

When one thinks of recapitalizing, images of AH-64 Apaches and A1 Abrams come to mind; however, recapitalization is a viable alternative for a variety of things, and one of those is weapon mounted lights. Insight Technologies now part of the L3 family has, over the years, supplied all branches of the DoD, state and federal agencies with weapon mounted lights and other accessories. They are the de facto standard in a field that has seen increasing competition year over year from very substantial players. A couple of years ago Insight made a decision, which speaks volumes about them as a company, and introduced an LED upgrade kit for the M6, M3 and M2 family of lights. This was a move that undoubtedly cut into sales of the M3 LED & M6 LED and M2 LED, but it was a move that recognized the investment made by their customers over the years.

Individuals or agencies with an inventory of M2,M3 and M6 weapon mounted lights now have the ability to upgrade their Insight weapon mounted lights for just about $80, which helps the budget line considerably.

The M3 and M6 upgrade will increase light output to 150 lumens and runtime to 120 minutes of continuous use.

Posted in Tactical Lighting | Tagged Insight, L3, LED, M2, M2X, M3, M3X, M6, M6X | Comments Off

Beretta’s Latest Addition To The 90 Series Pistols – 92A1 & 96A1

Posted on Saturday, 23 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

There’s probably never been a more successful combat service pistol than the Beretta M9. Ergonomics, function, ease of operation, safety, capacity and reliability are unsurpassed; except for the venerable 1911 the M9 has been in service longer than any other service pistol. That speaks highly of both Beretta and the 90 series design.

The folks at Beretta have added two additional models to the 90 series line of pistol, the 92A1 and 96A1 available in 9mm and .40SW respectively. Ben Cook, with Beretta USA, details the enhancements. A great pistol just got better!

Posted in pistols, Weapon systems | Tagged 92A1, 96A1, Beretta, M9, M9A1 | Comments Off

REVISION MILITARY PURCHASES MSA’S NORTH AMERICAN BALLISTIC HELMET BUSINESS

Posted on Friday, 22 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Today Revision Military, Essex Junction, VT, announced the acquisition of MSA’s North American ballistic helmet business. The purchase includes the acquisition of MSA’s U.S.-based helmet manufacturing equipment and operations located in Newport, Vermont. The former MSA facility, which specializes in large-scale production of aramid helmets for military and law enforcement, is a complement to Revision’s existing Composite Center of Excellence which outputs highly-specialized, polyethylene composite helmet shells. Having both manufacturing capabilities will enable Revision to meet current aramid helmet program requirements while also aiding customers in their quest for lighter weight, higher performance head protection solutions.

Senator Patrick Leahy of Vermont commented: “Revision Military has proven they know how to design, manufacture and deliver state-of-the-art soldier protective systems for customers across the globe. I am pleased to see a firm with such skill and experience taking over helmet production for our American soldiers and soldiers across the globe.”

Revision has committed orders from the U.S. Army to deliver approximately 100,000 helmets over the 12 months following the acquisition. Additionally, Revision will fulfill the balance of an outstanding contract for 6,000 CG634 helmets to the Canadian DND while continuing to develop current and future helmet business with law enforcement agencies.

This acquisition, coupled with Revision’s extensive international experience is expected to be instrumental in meeting demands for aramid helmets on a global scale. Importantly, being able to manufacture and deliver ACH helmets-the platform upon which Revision’s Batlskin™ Modular Head Protection System is carried-will allow Revision to deliver completely integrated and fully modular head and face protection packages to its North American and global customers.

Posted in Ballistic Protection | Tagged MSA, Patrick Leahy, Revision, Vermont | Comments Off

STREAMLIGHT® LAUNCHES VEHICLE SOLAR CHARGING PANEL

Posted on Friday, 22 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Streamlight^®, Inc., today introduced the Streamlight SolarStream™, a supplemental solar charging panel for emergency responder and fleet vehicles. The Streamlight SolarStream helps to offset battery drain from computer systems and other rechargeable electronics when a vehicle is off, extending battery life and limiting battery-related vehicle maintenance.

A thin-film amorphous silicon charging panel, the Streamlight SolarStream adheres to a variety of contoured surfaces. The panel allows for 14 watts of maximum power in full sunlight.

The charging system works by dispensing up to one amp of current to a vehicle’s battery, helping to prevent it from draining completely and reducing the need for jump-starts and frequent battery replacement due to battery drain. The Streamlight SolarStream maintains a trickle charge to the vehicle battery even in low sun and cloudy conditions, and is both heat and shade tolerant.

The panel measures 40.88 inches long by 13.07 inches wide, and weighs 1.3 pounds. The product’s encapsulated amorphous silicon technology offers exceptional durability and weather resistance. The product has been extensively police tested, and is tested for wind resistance to 120 miles per hour.

Designed to directly wire to a vehicle’s battery, the panel is packaged with a fuse holder and fuse, which will automatically cut off power from the panel if the included cord is damaged. The 20-foot 18AWG cord allows for a variety of installation conditions.

The Streamlight SolarStream comes with a 5-Year Limited Warranty and has an MSRP of $400.00

Posted in Power | Tagged charging, panel, solar, SolarStream, Streamlight | Comments Off

CamelBak® All Clear™ – Microbiological UV Water Purification.

Posted on Thursday, 21 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Roughly 75% of the earth’s surface is covered by water, yet clean and clear sources of potable water are increasingly scarce. It’s not redundant to emphasize the importance of water to ecosystems and to terrestrial life forms, or at least those based on the eukaryotic model, namely human. Availability of clean potable water dictates fate and fortune for us all. Of the 75% of earth’s surface that’s covered with water, 97% is salt water and just 3% is fresh water. The fresh water available breaks down to 68.7% icecaps and glaciers, 30.1% ground water, 0.3% surface water and 0.9% other (principally in the form of water vapor in the atmosphere).

CamelBak’s All Clear Microbiological UV Water Purifier makes pure and reliable water available to you at a nominal price of $99 M.S.R.P. It is money well spent when you consider the alternative.

View this document on Scribd

Posted in hydration | Tagged All Clear, CamelBak, hydration, purification, UV, water | Comments Off

Revision Sawfly™Photochromic Review

Posted on Tuesday, 19 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Revision Military has been producing ballistic eyewear since 2003. The company introduced its Sawfly™Eye Protection System in 2004; soon after its introduction, Revision Military became a serious competitor for Oakley who enjoyed a lion’s share of the military business. It’s hard to imagine a better solution to ballistic eye protection that is as flexible and as functional as the Sawfly™. Now available in three sizes.

View this document on Scribd

Posted in Ballistic Protection | Tagged ballistic, eyewear, photochromic, Revisio, Sawfly | Comments Off

KRISS® USA ONLINE STORE UP AND RUNNING…

Posted on Tuesday, 19 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

The KRISS® e-shop offers the latest KRISS® Arms accessories, special packages and KRISS® Arms apparel. Customers can create accounts on site that will expedite the check-out process for purchasing, store multiple shipping addresses and view and track orders. With a KRISS® Arms E-Shop account, customers can download product reviews, sign up for the KRISS® e-newsletter, create wish lists and register new KRISS® Arms products.

KRISS® has done a great job standing the new site up so check it out.

Posted in magazines, Optics, Weapon systems | Tagged accessories, KRISS, KRISS ARMS, Vector | Comments Off

REVISION SAWFLY® SMALL-SIZE EYEWEAR SYSTEM AMONG TOP THREE ON U.S. ARMY APEL LIST

Posted on Tuesday, 19 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Like all other Sawfly glasses, the Sawfly Small features a lightweight frame, Comms-Compatible arms and interchangeable UV protective lenses. It’s also prescription capable with the Revision-developed, DoD approved Universal Rx Carrier. The Sawfly Small provides ballistic protection, exceeding ANSI Z87.1-2010 and military ballistic impact requirements (MIL-PRF-31013, clause 3.5.1.1 and MIL-DTL-43511D, clause 3.5.10); flawless optics for distortion-free vision; and rugged durability to protect and perform through all the rigors of combat.

Individuals with smaller head sizes can now avail themselves of a superior eye protection system. The small zised Sawfly in on the Army’s APEL and can be purchased at an M.S.R.P. of $89.99

Posted in Ballistic Protection | Tagged APEL, Army, ballistic, glasses, Revision, Sawfly, U.S. Army | Comments Off

Laserlyte Launches The UTA-SH Laser For The M&P Shield

Posted on Tuesday, 19 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

The folks at Laserlyte, in collaboration with Smith & Wesson, have launched a laser aiming module designed specifically for Smith & Wesson’s M&P Shield. S&W’s Shield is taking the market by storm, and it just got better with the introduction of the UTA-SH laser.

It’s my understanding that the new laser is available and shipping from Laserlyte

Posted in Laser Based Technologies, pistols, Weapon systems | Tagged laser, laserlyte, M&P, pistol, S&W, Shield, Smith & Wesson, UTA-SH | Comments Off

WARRIORGRIP Slag – High Performance Pistol Grip For Your 1911

Posted on Monday, 18 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

I’ve been shooting 1911s since day one of my military life and thereafter as a civilian. As mature as the design is, nothing comes close to a 1911 for reliability and stopping power. Its limitations are magazine capacity and a stout recoil.

Those of us with 1911 experience know that grip is everything. Support hand extension and proper tensioning of the strong hand are extremely important, and the 1911 is unforgiving in that respect. The concept holds true for target shooting but is especially applicable to tactical, or combat use of the 1911. Therefor, the grip you use makes a significant difference in how well you’re able to control your weapon.

I recently installed a pair of WARRIORGRIP, 1911 grips. I was immensely impressed with how they feel. The Slag model, shown in the picture, has a rather cool “zombie squad” sort of look, which I thought was great. More importantly, they dig right into your hand like a spot weld.

If you want to add a useful upgrade to your 1911, I recommend that you consider a set of WARRIORGRIP pistol grips. Easily summarized as fantastic!

Posted in pistols, Weapon systems | Tagged grips, pistol, warrior, Warrior Grip | Comments Off

USSOCOM Renews Its Commitment To SAAB

Posted on Monday, 18 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

SAAB, of Sweden, announced today that USSOCOM has placed an order totaling $25.8 million for Carl-Gustav 84mm recoilless rifle system and ammunition. The Carl-Gustav is a man-portable system filling anti-armor, anti-structure and anti-personnel roles. SAAB has made continuous improvements to the system along the way keeping it current and viable. Delivery of the follow-on systems will complete July 2013.

We would like to congratulate SAAB on the award.

Posted in Weapon systems | Tagged Carl-Gustaf, recoiless, rifle, SAAB, USSOCOM | Comments Off

Military Takes On Battery Fatigue…

Posted on Saturday, 16 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

The Wall Street Journal, Online, ran an interesting article titled: “Fighting Form: Military Takes On Battery Fatigue” written by Keith Johnson, which speaks to the growing and urgent need for rethinking power. It has reached the point of ridiculous personally, so I can only imagine what it must be like for the troops.

I wrote an article several years ago where I discussed the “electrification of the soldier.” In that piece, I emphasized that with every passing month, new devices are introduced to the warfighter; seemingly, without any standardization on power requirements. I think the hens are coming home to roost, and the time is now to look at standardizing power requirements for soldier equipment. This thinking has to be incorporated into the accessory design thought process, from the bottom up, if measurable results are to be achieved.

Posted in Electronics, Gear | Tagged batteries, Journal, power, Wall Street, WSJ | Comments Off

The Art Of Japanese Face Reading 顔を読む

Posted on Saturday, 16 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

It’s the weekend and time to kick back and relax enjoy un excellent fromage, une bouteille de vin blanc et une potage Parisien; not to mention les femmes. I’m going to kick that off with a little fun and the art of Japanese face reading…

The ancient Japanese art of face reading precedes the Bushido but was only incorporated into the way of life sometime in the 14^thcentury through migratory and cultural exchange. Although introduced in Japanese culture around that period, its true origin is China. Traces of Chinese face reading date back 4000 years; however, it did not take root until about 960 B.C. The art was used by Chinese priests and physicians to correlate a subject’s face to behavioral traits like sexuality, intelligence and character.

With some of the historical background out of the way, we decided to pick a face out of the crowd and read it. We then came up with 10 things we think a Japanese face reader would say about this individual…

10. Knows that just looking at his face will piss you off.

9. While doing it “doggy” style he’s on one knee with a hand on his partner’s back and the other on his hip; watching himself in the mirror.

8. Likes to play two-handed pocket pool so no matter what side you’re looking at he appears to have something in his pants.

7. He’s the pivot man and flight attendant for Travolta Airways.

6. Whistles “My Bologna Has A First Name…” to drown out the voices inside his head.

5. He has many things and you have none.

4. Possibly Rick Sanchez post sex change.

3. The most imaginative thought his brain has ever processed is a bowel movement.

2. Thinks he’s invisible but wonders why this guy is taking my picture.

1. Likes blow drying to get the extra height.

Posted in Fun Stuff | Tagged Chinese, face, Japanese, reading | Comments Off

Keep Your Eye On The Sparrow…

Posted on Saturday, 16 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Rafael

Posted in Eurosatory | Tagged Eurosatory, Eurosatory 2012, missiles, Rafael, target | Comments Off

Eurosatory 2012 (Continued)

Posted on Friday, 15 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Posted in Eurosatory | Tagged ATK, ATTACS, Eurosatory, Eurosatory 2012, FAMAS, FNH, France, Paris, Recon Scout, Rheinmetall | Comments Off

Dear Diary…

Posted on Friday, 15 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

This was sent to me by an old and respected buddy. We served together many years ago. I thought I’d share it with you because it says a great deal about us as friends and partners.

Wife’s Diary:

Tonight, I thought my husband was acting weird. We had made plans to meet at a nice restaurant for dinner.
I was shopping with my friends all day long, so I thought he was upset at the fact that I was a bit late, but he made no comment on it.
Conversation wasn’t flowing, so I suggested that we go somewhere quiet so we could talk. He agreed, but he didn’t say much. I asked him what was wrong;
He said, ‘Nothing.’ I asked him if it was my fault that he was upset.
He said he wasn’t upset, that it had nothing to do with me, and not to worry about it.
On the way home, I told him that I loved him. He smiled slightly, and kept driving.
I can’t explain his behavior I don’t know why he didn’t say, ‘I love you, too.’
When we got home, I felt as if I had lost him completely, as if he wanted nothing to do with me anymore.
He just sat there quietly, and watched TV.
He continued to seem distant and absent.
Finally, with silence all around us, I decided to go to bed. About 15 minutes later, he came to bed.
But I still felt that he was distracted, and his thoughts were somewhere else.
He fell asleep – I cried. I don’t know what to do. I’m almost sure that his thoughts are with someone else.
My life is a disaster.

Husband’s Diary:

Boat wouldn’t start, can’t figure it out…

Posted in Fun Stuff | Tagged diary, husbands, men, wives, women | Comments Off

Eurosatory 2012

Posted on Thursday, 14 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Looks like we found Jason Bourne…

Posted in Eurosatory | Tagged BAE, Eurosatory 2012, pavilion, Rafael, Thales, Vectronix, Walther | Comments Off

90 Year Old Screaming Eagle Jumps Again…

Posted on Thursday, 14 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Tom Rice, now 90 years old, is a former member of the 101st Airborne Division “Screaming Eagles”. On June 6th, 1944, Tom jumped behind enemy lines during the Normandy invasion. To celebrate June 6th, 1944, Tom goes out the door like a champ…

Posted in Fun Stuff | Tagged 101st Airborne, Normandy, parachute, Screaming Eagle, Tom Rice | 5 Comments

The All Clear™ Water Purification System By Camelbak.

Posted on Thursday, 14 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

As the theater of operations shifts from Iraq and Afghanistan to Asia-Pacific, soldiers and operators will say farewell to sands and moon dust and hello to lush tropical rainforests; everything from apparel to logistics changes. Having access to a portable water purification system is essential.

In July, I will review Camelbak’s All Clear™ water purification system. This is a review that you don’t want to miss because I will discuss likely pathogens, water turbidity, how to select a water source, benefits and hazards of eutrophication and a variety of nice to know pieces of information.

Posted in Sneak Previews | Tagged All Clear, Asia, CamelBak, jungle, Pacific, purification, survival, water | Comments Off

FN Herstal’s SmartCore At Eurosatory 2012

Posted on Thursday, 14 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

FN Herstal SmartCore

What originally started out as a shot counter to help the United States Army solve its maintenance issues with the M4, now offers enhanced functionality in situational awareness.

The problem with managing weapon systems, particularly shoulder fired individual soldier systems, is quite simply that there are no systematic ways of optimizing service intervals, or life cycle management. When should a barrel be replaced, or how about recoil buffers and ejectors? Manufacturers know how often that maintenance should take place but the armorer has no systematic way of determining when those service dictating parameters are met. So, what happens? Well, you either change the part or component prematurely in an effort to be proactive; adding to cost. Or, you wait for the weapon to fail; then you have a “reliability” problem or a dead soldier.

FN’s SmartCore provides a transparent and automatic way of collecting that data, but in its latest rendition it also communicates to C² that a firefight has begun, how the firefight was conducted and how many rounds were expended. The data is seamlessly transmitted using the soldier’s situational awareness tools.

Posted in Eurosatory | Tagged Black Box, counter, FN, FNH, maintenance, SHOT, SmartCore | Comments Off

Spyderco Dragonfly The Little Knife That Could…

Posted on Thursday, 14 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

When it comes to Spyderco, size does not matter. I’ll be reviewing this little gem of an EDC knife for you this July…

Posted in Sneak Previews | Tagged Blade, Dragonfly, EDC, Spyderco | Comments Off

Thales F88 Enhanced and FN90 Assault Rifles At Eurosatory 2012

Posted on Thursday, 14 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Thales Enhanced F88 Photo: T. Eshel Defense-Update.com

Thales F90 intended for export Photo: T. Eshel Defense-Update.com

Posted in Eurosatory, Weapon systems | Tagged Enhanced, F88, F90, Thales | Comments Off

Abundance Of Jamming Equipment At Eurosatory

Posted on Wednesday, 13 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

One thing is evident, and that is that jamming equipment is very much in vogue; with a variety of portable jammers now available to both the large Army and SOF. This is great because it helps to deny cellular and rf communications while you’re conducting a kinetic operation. HOWEVER!

Let me suggest to you that there munitions available to rotary, fixed and UAV assets that lock on to sources of jamming, so keep that in mind. AT ALL TIMES!

I’ll be doing a complete article down the road on EW and the technology available today for operators.

Posted in Comms, Electronics, Eurosatory | Tagged 3G, 4G, cell phones, EW, jammers, jamming, wireless | Comments Off

Surefire Filter Kit For Minimus Headlamp Is Now Available.

Posted on Wednesday, 13 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Just a quick post to let readers know that Surefire has finally delivered on a filter kit for the Minimus headlamp. Fit and finish are what you would expect from Surefire. You can buy the kit directly from Surefire or a number of other online retailers for $17 to $25 plus shipping. If you own a Minimus and expect it to fill a military or LE roll, I strongly suggest you buy the kit.

Posted in Tactical Lighting | Tagged filter, headlamp, Minimus, Surefire | Comments Off

IWI Displays X95 At Eurosatory

Posted on Tuesday, 12 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

IWI’s family of Tavor carbines are some of the best carbines available. Although the IWI CTAR, or Compact Tavor, addressed the size consideration for urban and counter terror operations, it lacked the ability to downsize from a full powered rifle caliber to a pistol caliber better suited for urban scenarios where over penetration is a serious consideration. With the IWI x95, the operator has one platform that can easily be converted from 5.56mm to 9mm saving training time and costs.

Posted in Eurosatory, Weapon systems | Tagged 5.56, 9mm, CTAR, IWI, Tavor, X95 | Comments Off

iRobot Receives $12.7 Million Order From The US Army Contracting Command

Posted on Tuesday, 12 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Eurosatory – iRobot announced they had received a $12.7 million order from U.S. Army Contracting Command for 68 model 310 SUGV robots and spares kits. All deliveries will be completed by 31 Aug 2012.

The iRobot 310 SUGV is a man-portable robot with articulating arm and wearable controller; primarily intended for dismounted EOD operations. The robot is configurable and can be equipped with a variety of payloads and sensors as mission requirements dictate.

Posted in Eurosatory | Tagged 310 SUGV, EOD, Eurosatory, iRobot, ISR, Robot, sensors | Comments Off

Infotron IT180 VTOL UAV

Posted on Monday, 11 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

I thought counter-rotating rotors were exclusive to the Kamov Russian designs, a la Mischa…

This little guy sports 2 counter-rotating rotors, and can be deployed in 2 minutes or less. It comes with a choice of powerplants either an electric brushless motor, with a runtime of 35 minutes, or a two-stroke engine, albeit less quiet, with a runtime of 90 minutes. Infotron’s IT180 vtol UAV can handle a payload of up to 5 kg (11 lbs).

Infotron is a privately held French company specializing in vertical lift drones.

Posted in Eurosatory | Tagged drone, Eurosatory, Infotron, IT180, UAV, vertical lift | Comments Off

Burris FASTFIRE ™ III Mini Red Dot Sight

Posted on Monday, 11 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Burris Optics’s Fastfire III

Burris has done a superb job with the FASTFIRE™ III. They’ve improved on prior renditions with added robustness, water resistance, battery placement, zeroing adjustment and a power switch that provides the operator with total control. These improvements make the FASTFIRE™ III a very capable and credible tactical reflex sight. When you combine that with market pricing that is just over $200, you have a real winner!

Review

View this document on Scribd

Posted in Laser Based Technologies, sights, Sniper Systems and Tools | Tagged Burris, FastFire, red dot, sights | Comments Off

First Time At Eurosatory? Try Au Pied De Cochon…

Posted on Monday, 11 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

If this is your first time attending Eurosatory, I’d like to suggest that you visit Au Pied De Cochon for a great dinning experience with an excellent selection of local wines.

6 RUE COQUILLIÈRE – 75001 PARIS

Give them a try and let me know what you think!

Posted in Eurosatory | Tagged Au Pied De Cochon, Eurosatory, Paris, restaurant | Comments Off

Somber Moods At Eurosatory 2012

Posted on Monday, 11 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Moods are more somber at Eurosatory as the reality of EU’s economy unfolds. Aggravating things further is the looming prospect that budget sequestration for the DOD may be unavoidable.

Posted in Eurosatory | Tagged budget, DOD, EU, Eurosatory, sequestration | Comments Off

Eurosatory 2012 Kickoff In Just A Few Hours…

Posted on Sunday, 10 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Posted in Eurosatory | Tagged Eurosatory, Paris | Comments Off

Ceradyne , Inc. Ballistic Protection For SOF

Posted on Saturday, 9 June, 2012 by twobirdsflyingpub

Ceradyne , Inc. located in Costa Mesa, Ca is a highly diversified and vertically integrated business specializing across a number of sectors including aviation, automotive, electronics, defense and several others. Vertical integration means that the company has control of its raw materials and supplies giving the company full control over its manufacturing and quality control. Its ballistic plates are used throughout the SOF community.

Ceradyne has committed resources to design and develop DEFENDER® ceramic based armor solutions from body armor to LTAS government tested and approved vehicle armor. There have been and continues to be multiple companies that supply armor solutions to the DoD and SOF but none are distinguished by their ability to react to new requirements and surge production demands like Ceradyne.

SOF uses Ceradyne body, side and shoulder armor, which provides up to NIJ Level III+ when worn with soft armor. They also produce a special operations side plate that delivers NIJ Level IV protection without the use of soft armor inserts. Plates produced come in a variety of sizes and cuts to accommodate swimmers.

Posted in Ballistic Protection | Tagged Ceradyne, ESAPI, Level III, Level IV, NIJ, SAPI | 2 Comments

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