G-Flex: a Glock Binary Trigger
Double down. Bang it twice…every single time! Tactical Sh!t is taking pre-orders now for the G-Flex; the best binary trigger for your Glock pistol.
St. Peters, MO | 17 MAR 23
For the first time ever, enhanced pull and release firing capability is here for Gen 3, Gen 4, and Gen 5 Glock firearms. Introducing the G-Flex Binary Trigger for Glock pistols!
The G-Flex is engineered with Reflex Trigger Technology. It fires one round when the trigger is pulled rearward, then a second “reflex” round when the trigger is released forward. This provides the potential for lightning-fast split times and unmatched performance in your Glock handgun.
The G-Flex is manufactured from professional-grade materials and designed for easy drop-in installation. The G-Flex is manufactured with aerospace-grade stainless steel and is built to perform under pressure and hard use. You’ll harness elevated speed and effectiveness with unmatched strength and reliability.
The G-Flex has been engineered with what the ATF wanted; a patented secondary DISCONNECTOR makes it physically impossible for the G-Flex to achieve automatic firing.
Components:
• Trigger Bar
• Enhanced Bar Guide
• Trigger Return Spring
• Trigger Housing
• Trigger Shoe
Specifications:
• Style: Reflex
• Model: G-Flex
• Platform: GLOCK 17, 19, 22, 23, 26, 27, 19X, 45, 47, 31, 32, and 33
• Fit: generation-specific
• Weight: 5 ounces
• Material: Aluminum/Steel
Experience the speed and performance of the G-Flex and its game-changing Reflex Trigger Technology. Unleash Glock’s full potential with G-Flex!
Order yours online at Warlord Central: sigglockincolt.com
Be sure to check out the SHOTS FIRED podcast!
Danger Close Media Group | 4110 North Outer Road, St. Peters, MO 63376
SilencerCo: On a Mission To Do It Better
SilencerCo is on a mission. A mission to do it better. Do what better? Good question. Let’s look at that. First and foremost, SilencerCo strives to make better suppressors and suppressor accessories. That’s fine, but one could easily say the same for many companies that make quality products. What matters here is how SilencerCo does it.
SilencerCo lives by what they call “The Three Ps,” People, Passion, and Precision. The Three Ps are the road map to accomplish their mission of doing it better. Let’s break down how that philosophy works.
People
We often hear companies say that they put the customer first. A common customer service maxim says that “the customer is always right,” even though any honest person knows that’s untrue. SilencerCo takes a somewhat different approach to outstanding customer service: they put their employees first.
The idea is that happy employees, people who genuinely like, or even love, their jobs, will strive to do their best every day. That means better, more consistent product lines, more innovation, faster, friendlier service, and a great experience for everyone involved. In short, people who take pride in their work want to do things the right way. Everyone wins. That’s what SilencerCo aims for every day.
So, how do they do that? After all, a job is a job, and most folks would rather be doing other things. We’ve all been there. SilencerCo recognizes all that but continues to take steps toward improving their employees’ experience. Let’s look at a few of those.
Automation
SilencerCo is investing heavily in robotics to aid the manufacturing process. Usually, automation means real people lose their jobs because they’ve been replaced. Not so at SilencerCo. Founder and CEO Jonathan Shults told us that “By introducing higher levels of automation into our production processes we are creating greater efficiency for our company and more enjoyable jobs for our employees. We are automating the parts of manufacturing that are mundane and tedious. Employees will work in conjunction with these new automations in a way that allows them to spend more time on creative and high-level tasks.”
SilencerCo is investing in robotics to free their employees from tedious tasks, not to replace them. (Author’s photo)
This shift has been augmented by training SilencerCo’s employees to monitor the robots doing the tedious jobs they used to do themselves. The employees gain new skills and quality control gets a boost because of the constant human monitoring of the new machines. The company has invested so heavily that the production floor is being rearranged to accommodate the new processes. But not one employee has lost their job because of it, and Shults says that none will. Better, more precise machines, coupled with better-skilled employees whose jobs are less tedious means superior products and happier customers.
Time
Shults likes to say that “Time is time. Time is not money.” Time is the one resource we all have that cannot be replaced or made up. Once it’s gone, it’s gone for good. “You cannot put a price tag on time,” Shults said when asked about the subject. “It has so much more value than any amount someone can pay you. These new automations will give that valuable time back to our employees and our company, freeing up space to focus on growth and innovation.”
Automation frees up time for SilencerCo employees to be more creative and in control of the production process. (Author’s Photo)
SilencerCo is leveraging that regained time to understand not only how to make better products, but how the machines that make them can be improved. Shults told us that all the best machine tools are currently made in Japan, and that SilencerCo only buys from those companies. But thanks to Shults’ emphasis on giving his employees their time back, the company has begun designing and building its own machines as well. Shults told us that designing those machines provides insights into how they can be improved and tailored to SilencerCo’s products, resulting in even better output as the SilencerCo team learns and improves. Some of those in-house machines are already online on the production floor.
Dogs Are Welcome!
This was our second visit to SilencerCo, and both times we noticed the dogs. Dogs in the offices. Dogs in the hallways. Dogs on the production floor. How many companies not only allow you bring your dog to work, but actively encourage it? We’d bet that SilencerCo is one of a very few.
We met this good boy in SilencerCo’s hallway. His name is Blue.” (Author’s Photo)
Obviously, not everyone is a dog person, but for those of us who are, that sounds like a great deal. And it goes back to employee well-being. Shults told us that “We love having a dog-friendly environment. It lowers stress levels and creates a fun space where people want to come to work. Our dogs are really part of our team!” He was excited about it. We get it. We were excited about it. The company even has a “Dog Station” with supplies folks might need for their canine pals. Good stuff.
Passion
We quickly noticed that the Three Ps, People, Passion, and Precision, overlap in many places. People who like their jobs find it easier to be passionate about what they do. That passion translates into quality work, quality products, and quality service.
But SilencerCo isn’t just passionate about suppressors and their accessories. A giant American flag hangs conspicuously over the production floor. Monthly “All Hands” meetings are held directly underneath that flag. Each meeting starts with the Pledge of Allegiance.
And it’s not just lip service. Shults and SilencerCo take that attitude seriously. “We source almost all of our materials within the United States and are working toward having everything 100 percent sourced in America,” he told us proudly. “We want our business to support Americans on all levels: through the products that we sell and through the methods [by which] these products are made.” He added that SilencerCo is currently the only suppressor company to do so.
The machinery and robotics investments also reflect the company’s ideals. SilencerCo has long been the only suppressor company to manufacture all their products in-house, from start to finish. Shults showed us the bar stock and other components that go into SilencerCo products. When asked why this vertical integration was important, Shults told us that “By manufacturing our products in-house, we are actively bringing more jobs to the people of Utah. It also gives us the ability to control our products and thereby ensures that customers are receiving the very best that we can produce.” Which brings us to…
Precision
It’s not hard to see how SilencerCo’s focus on People and Passion leads to the final “P,” Precision. The company’s people continue to perform at higher levels, generating more passion and pride in what they do. The dogs no doubt play a vital role here too, because dogs just make everything better.
SilencerCo has long been regarded as a leader in the suppressor industry, with products like the Saker, Omega, Chimera, and Harvester series, among others. They are continuing that legacy with the new Velos Low Back Pressure suppressor designed specifically for the 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington cartridges.
The new Velos LBP is specifically designed for the 5.56 cartridge. (SilencerCo Photo)
The Velos LPB takes advantage of SilencerCo’s technology and people investments to make the most durable suppressor the company has ever made, thanks, in part, to the brand new patented Hoplon Blast Baffle. The Hoplon Baffle deflects debris and increases the suppressor’s lifespan on short-barreled rifles and full-auto firearms. It handles a standard-length semi-auto rifle with ease. The Velos LBP measures only 5.98 inches long and weighs 15.2 ounces.
Another innovation is the 3D-printed Inconel 635 core which is fully welded to the 17-4 stainless steel front and rear modules. The Velos LBP delivers an impressive 137.1 decibels at the muzzle of a 16-inch barreled AR-15. Just for reference, 140 decibels is considered hearing safe.
The Velos LBP features V-Series Cerakote to ensure the finish holds up to hard use. The new suppressor is compatible with the already popular SilencerCo Charlie accessories and has no barrel length restrictions. It ships with the brand-new Internal Charlie Flash Hider Front Cap, Charlie ASR Mount, ASR Flash Hider in ½ x 28, a spanner wrench, and a Charlie tool. Coupled with SilencerCo’s Gas Defeating Charging Handle, the Velos LBP may be the top AR-15 suppressor available today.
Precision Service
As always, SilencerCo backs up its products with perhaps the industry’s best warranty. Shults laughingly told us that he believes so strongly in supporting SilencerCo’s products that they’ve gone so far as to say “We’ll fix stupid once.”
SilencerCo Founder and CEO Jonathan Shults. (Author’s Photo)
When we pressed him on this he said “Being a consumer myself, I’ve experienced frustrations after purchasing a product and the manufacturer failing to provide support. That’s why providing top notch customer service and support is so important to me and why we focus so heavily on customer service and warranty…Our warranty department is in-house, and we maintain an average 48-hour turnaround time on suppressor warranty or service requests.”
So, the Three Ps come full circle back to People, with those People being SilencerCo’s customers. We admit that Shults’ confidence is contagious. It’s difficult to visit with him at SilencerCo and not feel that positive energy.
A Bright Future
SilencerCo’s investments in new machine tools, robotics, and processes are ultimately investments in their people, as we’ve noted. Such efforts rarely go unrewarded, and SilencerCo’s path forward appears surer than ever.
SilencerCo is looking to the future. And the future is now. (SilencerCo photo)
Employees who feel valued are more likely to take pride in their work. We once saw pride, as used in this instance, defined as “always doing your best, even when no one is watching.” Jonathan Shults and SilencerCo are building that kind of environment, which benefits not only the company and its employees, but the end user as well.
Some of the best advice we ever received regarding firearms and accessories was to “buy from companies who give a damn about their customers.” After spending time with Shults and other SilencerCo folks like Shauna Young, Caleb Gosnell, Cody Wootton, and Jace LeRoy, we’re convinced that SilencerCo is one of those companies.
But that’s always been the plan. Shults and his partner Josh Waldron started SilencerCo in a garage because they thought they could “do it better.” Fifteen years later, that small business with a simple but big dream is a reality. SilencerCo does it better than, or at least as well as, anyone else. But they aren’t waiting around for anyone else to catch up.
Hard Head Veterans American Made ATE Lite Ballistic Helmet
Hard Head Veterans, a veteran-owned and operated helmet manufacturing company, has announced the launch of its newest product, the ATE Lite ballistic helmet.
Proudly made at their facility in Sweetwater, Texas, by the very men and women who have worn helmets into combat, the helmet is designed for military, law enforcement, and patriots of this great nation.
The ATE Lite is an excellent example of Hard Head Veterans’ mission to protect our protectors, as it offers great protection while being ultra-lightweight.
The helmet is made from a hybrid blend of UHMWPE and Aramid and has a shell weight of 1.6 pounds, with a total system weight of 2.3 pounds in the medium size.
The ATE Lite is a perfect blend of performance and comfort, making it ideal for extended use.
Hard Head Veterans is dedicated to producing gear that performs in real-world situations.
That’s why the ATE Lite was put to the test at the National Technical Systems Testing Lab, the leading independent testing lab for personal protective gear.
Level 3a Ballistic Helmet
The helmet consistently hit single-digit ballistic transient deformation numbers in the single-digit range with an average of 8.27mm at 1400 fps (9mm Testing Data).
Furthermore, the ATE Lite has been thoroughly tested against .40 and .45ACP, with deformation numbers still far below the 24mm required for 9mm (.40 and .45 ACP Testing Data).
FBI casualty data tells us that these three calibers account for the majority of handgun threats in the US.
While many manufacturers are moving away from BFD (backface deformation) testing, even new standards such as ASTM WK70812 make this testing optional.
What is Backface Deformation?
Backface deformation is the term used to describe the indentation on the backside of a plate or helmet caused by a bullet being stopped and prevented from penetrating the body.
When a person is shot, the backface of the helmet is deformed. The degree of deformation is a crucial factor to consider since greater deformation results in more severe trauma.
UHMWPE, one of the materials HHV uses for its ballistic helmets, works by using high-modulus fibers with unusually strong tensile strength. When compared to other technologies, these fibers prevent or cause less backface deformation. This means that the bullet’s energy is diffused and spread out much more effectively.
Hard Head Veterans helmets have always been designed with limiting BFD at the forefront.
The ATE Lite has also been tested to the NIJ IIIA standards and is rated to stop .44 magnum in resistance to penetration tests.
MicroLattice Ballistic Helmet Pads
HHV’s MicroLattice Pads not only play an essential role with BFD and blunt impact mitigationbut also provide unparalleled comfort and support in the ATE Lite.
Conforming the helmet naturally to each individual’s skull shape while maximizing airflow inside of the helmet.
The ATE Lite also features Hard Head Veterans’ signature A3S Lite shroud, one of the lightest helmet shrouds on the market, weighing only 32 grams. This night vision retention shroud features rubber inserts and machined aerospace aluminum inserts that prevent movement on most common mounts.
In addition to this, the ATE Lite comes standard with our patented SnapBack Retention system, which is a set-it-and-forget-it alternative to dial-type retention systems that have failure-prone mechanical parts.
With a price tag of $978.99, the ATE Lite ballistic helmet is an excellent value for those looking for a premium, American-made ballistic helmet.
Hard Head Veterans is proud to offer a growing list of protective products and to employ a growing number of American veterans to make them.
Focusing on customer feedback, they have also decided to make the shell itself available for purchase as a stand-alone product for $764.00.
This will allow end-users to plug and play with various helmet accessories from other manufacturers to get the very best helmet setup for their personal needs and mission set.
Big Bores and Barrett BORS: AMRs on the Battlefield
If you spend much time on social media — and most of us do — you should consider leavening your selection of meme pages by following some educational accounts. And by educational, I mean teaching firearm history, current geopolitics, and even tactics (though the latter’s worth is far more subjective than the former). To that end, I will share some battlefield posts about Anti-Materiel Rifles (AMRs) and ballistic tech (Barrett BORS) sourced from some of my favorite Instagram accounts.
I’ll leave additional recommendations below.
“Idlib” 12.7mm Anti-Materiel Rifle
Necessity drives lots of things, including weapon craft. These images, sourced from @thedixiemauser on Instagram, display a single-shot, bolt-action 12.7mm anti-materiel rifle produced (or assembled anyway) in Syria’s Idlib region.
Says the account’s curator, “It is quite obvious that these rifles are based off of the Iranian AM-50 12.7x99mm single-shot rifle (which is an unlicensed copy of the Steyr HS-50), but these Idlib rifles are slightly different and are allegedly chambered for the Soviet 12.7x108mm cartridge.”
If you watch OSINT and informational accounts like this much, you’ll quickly see a pattern where Idlib is often used in conjunction with local “craft” gunsmithing, manufacturing, and firearm modification.
Given the chancy and inconsistent nature of logistics in both Ukraine and Syria, it’s no surprise so much of their loadout – weapons, scope rings, foregrips, accessories, and the like – are scratch-built or improvised.
The Dixie Mauser goes on to explain:
“The Idlib 12.7mm rifles feature a large AM-50-style muzzle brake, barrels of varying profiles, bipods, adjustable check risers, rubber butt pads, & are usually seen with an East German AKM or Iranian KL series Kalashnikov pistol grip.
The barrels on some of these rifles are possibly repurposed from Chinese W85 heavy machine guns. Some barrels look like they are professionally made, with well-machined lightening cuts and profiles very similar to the barrels on Steyr HS-50 rifles. It is possible these barrels came from another nation, such as from Turkey. There is also the possibility that these weapons are assembled from mostly foreign-made components. All we can do is speculate, as there isn’t really any information about these weapons available at this current time.
These rifles are used by various anti-government rebel factions. Rebels use these heavy 12.7x108mm rifles as long-range sniper rifles or anti-material rifles against fortifications or vehicles.”
More than a few “Idlib AMR” examples have been reported on Ukrainian battlefields.
It’s interesting that the first conflict widely photographed professionally was the Crimean War (1853-1856). and the first conflict widely caught on individual camera (and then propagated via social media)
Above: The Genoese Castle at Balaklava from near the castle’s docks. Roger Fenton Crimean War photograph collection, Prints & Photographs Division, Library of Congress, LC-USZC4-9116
Below: An unidentified combatant in the Russia-Ukraine conflict sometime in 2022; photographer unknown.
While it’s not the first war to be captured in the modern “cell phone” sense, it is the first (and largest) to be played out over every conceivable form of social media, from Facebook to Telegram and all their counterparts around the world.
ASVK-M AMR & M107A1 Barrett
These images feature a couple of different weapons, but all were taken in roughly the same region. Thank you, @streakingdelilah!
AVSK-M
The ASVK-M is a variant of the Russian KSVK 12.7 built at Degtyarev Plant in Russia.
The curator says,
“Pictured here is a member of the Ukrainian GUR’s (Main directorate of Intelligence) “Kraken” unit as he poses with a Captured Russian ASVK-M AMR chambered in 12.7x108mm.”
You have to wonder sometimes how these guys source their gear. It probably takes a lot more effort than those of us who can go online to Primary Arms, Brownells, GunMag Warehouse, or whatever.
“The ASVK-M is a bullpup configured, bolt action, magazine fed rifle which is a modernised variant of the original ASVK which entered production in 1998. This particular rifle appears to have been fitted with a 1P88 optic. This Kraken Combatant also possesses 2X potent, captured Russian RPG-28/RsHg-1s which entered service with the Russian Armed forces in 2011. This image was taken in the Summer.”
Barrett BORS
The M107A1 Barrett probably needs no introduction on a site like AmmoLand, but just in case: it’s a U.S.-made semi-automatic AMR chambered in .50BMG. You’ve seen it in one incarnation or the other in moves like Shooter, Smokin’ Aces, The Accountant, The Hurt Locker, The Expendables, and all sorts of FPS video games.
“Streaking Delilah” says,
Pictured here is a member of the Russian Armed Forces as he poses with a captured M107A1 AMR during a training session at a local training facility in Russia.
This particular M107A1 appears to have been fitted with a Barrett QDL suppressor as well as a Leupold Mark 4 optic. The latter seems to have been fitted with the “BORS” system (Barrett Optical Ranging System) which can be seen sitting on top of the rifle scope. The BORS is an integrated ballistics computer manufactured by Barrett Firearms that aids snipers and long-range marksmen in taking precise and accurate shots.”
The logistics required for letting a gun like this eat might not be as bad as you’d think given the wide variety of weapons (and large number of nationalities) on the battlefield.
“The system mounts directly to the riflescope and couples with the elevation knob. With the aid of the BORS, marksmen can rapidly account for temperature and barometric pressure and aiming at an upward or downward angle. The computer built into the BORS, constantly updates to account for changing factors.
Barrett states that the BORS instantly takes care of the data work so the shooter can focus on the task of putting lead on target. It takes data from thousands of tables and accounts for a number of real-time external factors, automatically giving the shooter the exact yardage at which a bullet will hit its target
Quite a decent amount of US-supplied Barrett AMRs have been captured by Russian forces, which hints at the possibility that Barrett firearms were supplied to Ukrainian forces in large quantities.”
Here’s another Barrett 50
It’s unclear whether this is the same one at a different location or a separate weapon entirely.
“[A] captured Ukrainian M107A1. Pictured here is a member of the Russian Armed Forces as he poses with a Captured Barrett M107A1 Anti-material rifle somewhere in Ukraine.
This particular M107A1 also appears to have been fitted with a NightForce optic mounted on what looks like a SPUR QDP uni-mount, but it is unknown if the optic was captured together with the rifle.
You could beat someone to death with that Nightforce scope, but you’d have to get a lot closer than you need to with the Barrett.
Before anyone mentions it, the patch seen on his chest is not the Ukrainian flag but rather the Komi Republic flag, which is a small republic lying in the Northeast of European Russia.
Going back to the caption from earlier about obtaining gear. They can’t easily go online, order scope rings, and have them delivered to “the frozen dugout behind the overwatch trench somewhere near Petropavlivka” now, can they? Nor rely on a website to show them how to choose scope rings if they could. (Note: I know about Petropavlivka because I followed @nicklaidthelaw.)
You should follow those Instagram accounts if you liked this imagery and info.
You might also consider:
@squinting_archivist (Insta)
@paul_the_history_dude (insta)
@the_colt_ar15_resource (insta)
@war_noir (Twitter)
@silahreport (Twitter)
@calibreobscura (Twitter)
t.me/entre_guerras (Telegram)
About the Author:
David Reeder is part of the faculty at Gun University. A former action guy who never saw much action, he is the current editor of the GU blog and HMFIC over at Breach-Bang-Clear.
SilencerCo Retooling for Success
Firearms technology is ever-evolving. Companies who ignore the adage “innovate or die,” rarely remain relevant, if they survive at all. Suppressor companies, as a subset of the firearms industry, face the same challenge. As suppressors grow more popular, companies must stay on or near the leading edge to compete. On a recent visit to SilencerCo, we saw what that company is doing not only to stay on the edge, but to drive it forward.
We spent time with SilencerCo Founder and CEO Jonathan Shults, Public Relations Specialist Shauna Young, and Marketing guys Caleb Gosnell and Cody Wootton. Along the way, we saw how SilencerCo is revamping its production facility and processes, looked at some new products, and did some live fire on the company’s indoor test range.
Changing For the Better
We were a bit surprised when Shults himself conducted the facility tour, but who better to brief us on everything that’s happening? Being an engineer, the focus quickly turned to SilencerCo’s investments in automation. Tedious jobs like sorting are being phased out. Robots now do that. But before you decry the employee losing his job, that’s not how it works. Not at SilencerCo, anyway.
SilencerCo Founder and CEO Jonathan Shults gave us a personal tour. (Author’s Photo)
The robots do replace the human doing mundane jobs, but that human is now trained to oversee the robot, making certain it’s performing as intended. Shults told us that “By introducing higher levels of automation…we are creating greater efficiency for our company and more enjoyable jobs for our employees.” Shults wants the automation to allow his people “to spend more time on creative and high-level tasks.”
Shults also noted that “Time is time. Time is not money.” When we asked what he meant by that, he responded that “You cannot put a price tag on time. It has so much more value than any amount someone can pay you. These new automations will give that valuable time back to our employees and our company, freeing up the space to focus on growth and innovation.”
The new robots relieve employees from mundane jobs and let them focus on higher tasks. (Author’s Photo)
Shults stressed that no one has lost their job to a machine, nor will they. We expect that such investments, coupled with the right motivation, greatly benefit employee morale. And we know that happy employees do superior work. Sounds like a winning formula.
New and Better Products
The new robots and machine tools have given the company the time and incentive to examine how and why top-quality machines perform well. Company engineers have begun building their own machine tools tailored for their products. In the process, they gain insights into how future products can and should be designed to maximize the machines’ capabilities, opening up new innovative avenues.
One of those new products is the Velos Low Back Pressure suppressor, designed specifically for the 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington cartridges. Shults told us the Velos LBP is the most durable suppressor SilencerCo has ever built. When we pressed him on that claim, he enthusiastically told us about the new patented Hoplon Blast Baffle, which deflects debris and is specially designed to extend the suppressor’s life, even on short-barreled rifles and with fully automatic fire.
The new Velos LBP is designed for the 5.56 NATO and .223 Remington Cartridges. (SilencerCo Photo)
But that’s not the Velos’ only innovation. The 3D-printed Inconel 625 core is fully welded to the 17-4 stainless steel front and rear modules using a unique manufacturing process that we aren’t qualified to describe. Suffice it to say that’s pretty awesome, as we found out when we shot it later that day. Plus, the V-Series Cerakote means the finish will hold up for a long time. But let’s take a look at the specs:
SilencerCo Velos Low Back Pressure Suppressor
- Length: 5.98 inches
- Weight: 15.2 ounces
- Decibels at the Muzzle: 137.1 dB
- Caliber: 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington
- Full Auto Rated
- No Barrel Length Restrictions
- 17-4 Stainless Steel with a 3D Printed Inconel Core
- Finish: V-Series Cerakote (Black)
- Compatible with SilencerCo Charlie Accessories
The Velos LBP suppressor ships with the brand-new Charlie Flash Hider Front Cap, Charlie ASR Mount, ASR Flash Hider in ½ x 28, spanner wrench, and Charlie Tool.We were able to try out the Velos LBP on several platforms at the indoor range. It was a real pleasure to shoot. Being indoors, we used ear pro, but it was still noticeably quiet. It almost seems wimpy to say it tamed the recoil a bit, being 5.56, but it did. And the gas was reduced too, as one would expect from the name. When we coupled it with the SilencerCo Gas Defeating Charging Handle, there seemed to be no gas at all.
The FightLite Dual Feed was our favorite way to test the Velos LBP suppressor. (SilencerCo Photo)
The Velos was fun all around but, unsurprisingly, we enjoyed the FightLite Industries Dual Feed AR the most. Seriously, what’s not to like about that combo? That the range time was the highlight of the day should not shock anyone either. It was a good time. If you’re looking for a dedicated suppressor for your AR-15, you might want to give the Velos LBP a hard look.
The Dogs
We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the good boys and girls that we saw around the SilencerCo facility. Seriously. The company encourages their employees to bring their dogs to work. Talk about a morale booster. They weren’t on the range, for obvious reasons, but we saw them in the offices, hallways, and even the production floor, which isn’t particularly loud. It just made everything better. Shults said, enthusiastically, that “Our dogs are really part of our team!”
This good boy’s name is Blue. We met him in a SilencerCo hallway on the way to the production floor. (Author’s Photo)
Doing Everything at Home
By “at home,” we mean that SilencerCo sources almost all their materials from the United States and is “working toward having everything 100 percent sourced in America,” according to Shults. “We want our business to support Americans on all levels: through the products that we sell and through the methods these products are made.”
The company is also as vertically integrated as it can be, doing all the manufacturing work in-house, the only suppressor company to do so. Shults told us that was important to him because it brings jobs to the people of Utah while giving the company “the ability to control our products and thereby ensures that customers are receiving the very best that we can produce.”
Those attitudes aren’t just lip service. Both times we’ve visited SilencerCo we’ve noticed the huge American flag hanging prominently above the production floor. Monthly “all hands” meetings are held under the flags, with each meeting opening with the Pledge of Allegiance.” Good stuff.
This large American flag hangs prominently over the SilencerCo production floor. (Author’s Photo)
Quality Service
Shults also emphasized the importance of customer service. After all, a company that doesn’t support its products and its customers won’t stay around long. The SilencerCo warranty department is also in-house and Shults says they usually turn warranty work around in 48 hours. He takes his company’s warranty so seriously that he laughingly told us that SilencerCo would even “fix stupid once.” We liked that.
Of course, in a perfect world, warranties would be unnecessary and we’ve heard folks disparage companies who offer them by saying they shouldn’t have to do so. But that’s just unrealistic and such bombastic comments aren’t helpful. The fact that good companies support their products is encouraging.
Looking Ahead
Shults’ enthusiasm for SilencerCo’s direction is contagious. But it wasn’t just him. The other folks we interacted with had the same energy. The employees on the production floor were focused and quite friendly when we asked them questions. Now, you could say that was because the boss was right there with us, but we should note that the boss was on an easy first-name basis with everyone too. That’s a good sign.
That SilencerCo’s efforts to improve the experience and skills of their workers is a good thing seems unarguable. Happy employees take pride in their work, and everyone benefits, including the end user of SilencerCo products.
Automation allows SilencerCo’s employees time for creativity and attention to detail. (Author’s Photo)
A firearms instructor once told us to buy and use products from companies “who give a damn about their customers.” It looks like Shults is fostering that kind of environment at SilencerCo. The company started fifteen years ago in a garage. Now it’s an industry leader. They must be doing something right.
Read the original article here.
Raven Concealment Announces New OWB Holster For Glock 43X and Glock 48 MOS
This new holster is an extension of the Perun line of outside the waistband holster or “OWB” holsters from Raven Concealment. The Perun family of holsters has been adopted as the official, agency-wide issued holster for multiple Federal law enforcement agencies.
The Perun LC is designed to be the best light-compatible, modular “pancake” style outside the waistband holster on the market. This latest offering accommodates the slim-line Glock 9mm pistols (Glock 43X and Glock 48 MOS) equipped with the extremely popular Streamlight TLR 7 Sub weapon light.
The Perun is ambidextrous, has adjustable retention, and accommodates slide-mounted red-dot sights. Like all RCS products, the Perun is made from US-made polymers and colorants, in US-made tooling, by US citizens.
The body-hugging curvature of this holster is accomplished using modular belt loops. Each holster includes three pairs of 1.5″ belt loops. These belt loops allow the end-user to configure the holster according to their needs. For example, you can configure for ambidextrous holster body for left-handed or right-handed use, with either a 0-degree or 10-degree cant.
Retention in the Perun is crisp, defined, and consistent, thanks to the innovative design features inside the holster’s body. The Perun is unlike other OWB holster that use the traditional “screw through a rubber grommet” styles of retention. The Perun’s retention will not back off after repeated draw strokes and re-holstering.
As previously mentioned, the Perun is compatible with most slide-mounted red dot sights & optics like the Aimpoint T-1, Trijicon RMR, Leupold DeltaPoint Pro, etc. The holster also accommodates front suppressor height sights up to .350″ tall.
If you’re interested in learning more about our new addition to the Perun LC family, head to our store, RCSGear.com/ or shop for a Glock 43x & Glock 48 MOS Perun LC here.
The Perun LC G43X & 48 MOS + TLR-7 is available at retail price of $59.99.
For military/government inquiries, please contact Matt Edwards: m.edwards(at)rcsgear.com
300 Blackout Barrel: Choose Your Size
The 300 Blackout Barrel has gained popularity for its versatility in hunting, home defense, and suppressed shooting. When it comes to optimizing the cartridge’s performance, barrel length plays a crucial role. This article delves into the advantages and disadvantages of different barrel lengths for the 300 Blackout and where to get them.
The main question you need to ask yourself is whether or not you plan on using a suppressor. If you’re looking for the quietest and best handling setup, one could easily go as short as 7.5″, offered by Faxon Firearms.
7.5″ Blackout Barrel
How Much Does Barrel Length Affect .300 Blackout Velocity?
Based on our personal experience and research, the 9″ 300 blackout is the best overall barrel length with or without a suppressor, especially since an 8″ barrel is the minimum warranty barrel length for many suppressor manufacturers.
Best Barrel Length For Suppressed 300 Blackout
For optimal performance with a suppressed 300 Blackout, we recommend a barrel length of 8″-10″.
Attaching a 6″ suppressor to this barrel length results in a total length of 14″ to 16″, which provides optimal muzzle velocity for accurate long-range shots.
For the longer range engagements with a suppressed 300 Blackout, use a 16″ barrel with a suppressor for an average velocity of over 2,630 fps, leading to more effective shots and minimal bullet drop.
10.5″ Blackout Barrel
Best Blackout Length For Home Defense
The .300 Blackout round is an excellent choice for home defense as it combines power and efficiency with lethality when fired from a short-barreled rifle.
Using a short-barreled rifle is ideal for home defense as its compactness makes it easier to maneuver throughout the home. Despite its compact size, a .300 BLK round fired from a short barrel can still hit targets up to 100 yards away.
For optimal home defense with the .300 Blackout, a barrel length of at least 6″ to 8″ is recommended.
Side view of a 7.5″ Blackout Barrel
Best 300 Blackout Length For Hunting
The ideal barrel length when hunting with .300 Blackout is one able to reach long-range targets with sufficient bullet velocity and energy on target for a lethal impact.
Longer lengths offer greater accuracy and velocity, with a maximum length of 16″ for the .300 Blackout. This length ensures complete gunpowder combustion to generate maximum force and stabilizes the bullet for a flatter trajectory and improved accuracy.
Additionally, a 16″ barrel offers a long line of sight for better aim, making it the recommended choice for long-range hunting.
16″ Blackout Barrel
Choosing the right barrel length for the .300 BLK can be hard.
At 10″, the muzzle velocity has not yet reached its peak. Heavy subsonic ammo in a 10″ barrel may have lower velocities but allows for the use of a suppressor without damaging your hearing. Supersonic ammo out of a 10″ barrel retains rifle caliber velocities but with more significant bullet drop at longer distances.
10.5″ Blackout Barrel
At 16″, muzzle velocities are near their maximum. As a result, heavy-grain subsonic bullets struggle to retain their subsonic terminal performance, while supersonic ammo has increased effective range and reduced bullet drop. The 16″ barrel also provides greater energy upon impact, regardless of ammo type.
16″ Blackout Barrel
The barrel twist rate also impacts performance and should be considered when selecting barrel length and determining the effective range of the .300 Blackout. For example, a 1:8 twist is best for lightweight supersonic rounds, while the 1:7 twist is recommended for heavy subsonic rounds with a suppressor.
There are a few factors to consider when selecting the ideal barrel length for the .300 BLK rifle and determining its effective range.
Burris Introduces Next-Gen Rifle Scope: The Veracity PH
Burris Optics, a leading manufacturer of hunting optics, has introduced a new rifle scope they say aims to revolutionize the industry. As they tell it, the Veracity PH 4-20x50mm is packed with cutting-edge features such as the Programmable Elevation Knob (PEK) system, high-quality optics, and other high-tech goodies. Get ready for a detailed look at the impressive features of the Burris Veracity PH 4-20x50mm.
Let’s see what Burris had to say in the rest of the release.
The Burris Optics: Veracity PH 4-20x50mm
Burris Optics, known for pushing optics forward with products like the Eliminator Riflescope and Oracle Bowsight, has introduced a revolutionary rifle optic, the new Veracity PH 4-20x50mm.
Featuring the new PEK (Programable Elevation Knob) system, premium optical clarity, a built-in Heads-Up Display (HUD), and Bluetooth connectivity for uploading custom ballistic data from the new BurrisConnect Mobile App, the Veracity PH takes hunter confidence and performance to the highest level.
The most precise hunting optic ever produced by Burris, the Veracity PH 4-20x50mm introduces features that redefine what is possible in a riflescope. In addition, it sets a new standard for confident point-of-aim/point-of-impact performance at extended distances.
These features build on years of research and development to “do the math” for the shooter and achieve precise shot placement easily and efficiently. It provides an accurate dialing solution extremely fast, eliminating time lost to hesitantly fumbling with dope cards and data sheets. Instead, it allows hunters to apply valuable time to focus on getting clean, controlled shots on unpredictable targets.
This complex-to-simple performance centers on the Veracity PH’s PEK (pronounced “peak”) system and a robust yet easy-to-assess heads-up display showing the exact dialed distance, wind hold, rifle cant, and battery level. Coupled with user-configurable and uploadable ballistic data via Bluetooth connectivity through the BurrisConnect App, hunters can be assured of precise aiming.
A digital position sensor in the scope’s clickless elevation turret achieves 1/10 MOA equivalent adjustability for near exact dial-in to distance in yards or meters—unprecedented precision in today’s conventional scope technology. Additional ¼ MOA laser markings on the elevation turret provide redundancy for peace of mind on any hunt allowing the shooter to still dial to distance and complete their no matter the circumstances. Simply range the target using any rangefinder, dial to the distance in Yards or Meters displayed on the scope HUD, and fire.
The Veracity PH utilizes stand-alone programming in a fail-proof platform, and Wi-Fi or cell service is not needed to use the BurrisConnect App after it has been downloaded. Bluetooth connectivity between the mobile device and scope is required only when uploading ballistics or changing scope settings, making this a proper “set-and-forget” system. With this app-to-scope integration, shooters can create customized ballistic profiles for multiple bullet weights, rifles, and shooting locations and easily upload the desired profile whenever needed.
Boasting a 5x zoom system and high-performance glass with exceptional brightness and clarity, the Veracity PH is built around the award-winning Veracity 4-20x50mm, covering the needs of hunters engaging game close-up or far away in all lighting conditions. The Wind MOA FFP reticle is a front focal plane design, making hold-off and hold-over compensation accurate at any magnification. Side focus/parallax adjustment ensures the target image matches the reticle focal point from 50 yards to infinity, thereby eliminating parallax error on extended-range shots. Both windage and elevation turrets feature zero turn-stop adjustment, so shooters never lose zero.
Burris set out to provide hunters with a class-leading rifle scope that bridges the gap between today’s advanced ammunition and firearm technology. It’s a solution for shooters of all experience levels seeking a fast, reliable, and uncomplicated aiming solution for any hunting scenario.
With its easy-to-use operation, intuitive data presentation, and ability to work with custom ballistic profiles, the new Burris Veracity PH 4-20x50mm can maximize every hunter’s potential for success in the field.
Something good to know: Gun University will help not only help you find the correct scope rings, but they’ll also teach you to mount them.
Burris Veracity PH 4-20x50mm Specifications
- Item Number: 200200
- Magnification: 4-20x50mm
- Objective Lens Diameter: 50mm
- Tube Diameter: 30mm
- Field of View (Low to High @ 100 yards): 26 – 5.5 ft.
- Eye relief (in.): 3.5 – 4.25
- Exit Pupils – Low / High (mm): 12 – 2.5
- Diopter Setting: +2 to -3
- Reticle Plane: Front
- Display Plane: Rear
- Reticle: Wind MOA FFP
- Display Illumination: Rotary Dial, 5 illumination settings
- Battery: CR 2450 x2
- Length (in.): 15
- Weight (oz.): 27.2
- Elevation Turret Marking Graduations: ¼ MOA
- Elevation Turret Digital Resolution: 1/10 MOA
- Total Elevation Adjustment Range*: 66 MOA
- Elevation Turret Travel Limit**: 33.8 MOA
- Windage Turret Graduations (Clicks): ¼ MOA
- Total Windage Adjustment Range*: 37 MOA
- Windage Turret Travel Limit**: 24 MOA
- Parallax Focus: Side Focus
- Parallax/Focus Range: 50 Yd. to Infinity
- Operating Temperature: -20° to +140° F
- MSRP: $1,200
* Example: 50 MOA total adjustment range equates to roughly 25 MOA in either direction from center.
** Rotation-limited dial (12 MOA left or right from zero position)
For a complete overview of the Veracity PH 4-20x50mm rifle scope, including an unboxing video and tutorial videos, check out BurrisOptics.com.
Rainier Arms has launched their DI RUC Rifle – It’s an “Urban Combat” Build
The Rainier Arms RUC is a Direct Impingement (DI) rifle that Rainier Arms describes as the “…next step in [their] efforts to bring the highest quality rifles to the market…while offering the best value as well.” The RUC is a AR 15 (complete rifle) built around the newly evolved Rainier Arms Select barrel. It utilizes the Rainier Urban Combat Rail (UCR) and boasts numerous other excellent features.
Take a look at this setup.
Rainier Arms Select Barrel
RA designed these as an affordable alternative to their match-grade barrels. They’re so confident about the quality they offer a 100% money-back guarantee within 90 days of purchase.
Barrel Specs
- Stainless Steel Match Grade Blank
- Twist: 1:7 | Thread Pitch: 1/2 x 28
- .750 Gas Block Seat
- Polyganol 5-groove rifling
- M4 Feed Ramps
- Proprietary Contour
- Nitride Finish
Rainier Arms Urban Combat Rail (UCR)
The RUC DI Rifle utilizes the RA Urban Combat Rail to provide shooters with a rock-solid handguard that can take any abuse thrown at it.
The UCR MLOK slots are positioned at the 3, 6 & 9 o’clock positions for adding user-defined rail sections. There are also anti-rotation QD sockets at the 3 o’clock & 9 o’clock positions. Other features include:
- CNC machined 6000 Aluminum
- Hard Coat Anodized Milspec Type III/Class 2
- 7075 Aluminum Barrel Nut
- Patent Pending 17-4PH Cored Stainless Steel Rail Mounting Hardware
- Anti-rotation tabs to easily align the rail to upper receiver
- *No Barrel nut shims are required for installation if you decide to switch things out
- 1.315″ Interior Diameter
Avalanche ANC Charging Handle
A patented ambidextrous design, the Avalanche’s interchangeable handles offer an individualized look and feel. Made for fast and fluid operation, the Avalanche is built in Rainier’s own facility in Wichita, Kansas.
Avalanche features:
- 15% increase in wall thickness
- Reduced vent holes to minimize flex and improve rigidity
- Latch angles redesigned for improved locking and charging
- 7075 T6 Aluminum
- Weight 1.34 oz
FHAV2 Flash Hider
Rated 5 stars out of 5 stars by Rainier Arms customers, this is definitely, as one reviewer put it, a “bad azz flash hider.” The only downside to this muzzle device is how hard it is to keep them in stock.
FHAV2 Specs
- 303 Stainless with Black Nitride finish
- 1/2-28 thread & 1/2-36 thread pitches
- 2.26 length, .89 Diameter, 1.76 oz.
RUC DI Rifle Full Specs
Upper Receiver:
- RA Select 5.56 Barrel – 16 in.
- RA Forged Upper Receiver
- RA Urban Combat Rail – 15 in.
- RA Precision Bolt Carrier Group
- RA “Avalanche” Charging Handle
- RA Low Profile .750 Gas Block
- RA FHV2 Flash Hider
Lower Receiver:
- RA Forged Lower Receiver
- RA Modified Trigger Guard
- B5 Systems QD End Plate
- H1 Buffer – 3.9 oz
- Carbine Buffer Spring
- ALG Defense Quality Trigger
- B5 Systems Bravo Stock
- B5 Systems Type 23 Pistol Grip
AR15 Barrel Profiles: Fit for Your Build
The selection of the proper AR15 barrel profile is a vital decision when creating or customizing an AR-15. The profile, which determines the shape and size of the barrel, can greatly influence the overall performance and functionality of the weapon.
Let’s take a look at the different AR-15 barrel profiles available and help you understand the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision. From heavier barrel profiles to lightweight pencil barrel profiles, we’ll cover it all.
Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a hunter, or just a hobbyist, this guide will help you choose the perfect barrel profile for your specific needs and goals.
SOCOM 16in Barrel Profile
AR Barrel Profiles Explained
The term “barrel profile” refers to the thickness of a barrel on an AR-15 style rifle, such as the Faxon Sentry 16” 5.56 Rifle. Different barrel profiles can impact the performance of the gun in various ways.
For instance, thinner barrels are lightweight and easy to handle, while thicker barrels provide more stability by adding weight to the front of the gun and can withstand more heat.
It’s essential to consider the trade-offs of different barrel options available in the market when making a choice.
Let’s now look at the different AR-15 barrel profiles to see what makes each one unique.
Gunner Profile
The Gunner profile is a blend of two of the best-performing profiles of all time, Gov’t and Pencil.
Faxon’s Gunner profile combines the durability of the Gov’t profile with the weight savings and maneuverability of the Pencil profile.
The Gunner profile brings the rifle’s balance back towards the shooter’s body, limiting fatigue and allowing for shooting, training, or hunting all day long.
Government/SOCOM Profile
A SOCOM barrel for an AR-15 is designed differently from the standard M4/A2 barrel.
Instead of being consistently thick throughout, it has a thinner section past the gas block and a thicker section near the chamber. In addition, SOCOM barrels often have a slot for attaching a grenade launcher and provide a balance between strength and weight.
If you’re looking for a barrel that can handle sustained shooting while still being lightweight, a SOCOM profile barrel may be a good option for you.
Pencil Profile
The pencil barrel is the original profile for the AR-15, typically measuring 0.625 inches in diameter.
It is known for being slim and lightweight, making it easy to carry and handle. However, due to its thinness, it may overheat more quickly during rapid firing, leading to elastic deformation or warping, which can affect reliability and accuracy.
Unlike run-of-the-mill pencil barrels, Faxon Firearms barrels are properly heat-treated and stress-relieved to improve heat resistance and longevity.
The durability of this AR15 barrel profile is ideal for shooters with a light or medium shooting schedule.
AR Barrel Profiles: Finding Your Match
The barrel profile of an AR-15 rifle can greatly affect its overall performance and handling.
The three most common barrel profiles are the Gunner, Government, and Pencil. The Government/SOCOM profile is the thickest and heaviest option, providing the most stability and accuracy but also adding extra weight to the rifle.
The pencil profile is the thinnest and lightest option, making it easier to handle and carry, but sacrificing some stability and accuracy. The government profile is a balance between the two, offering a good compromise between weight and performance.
Ultimately, the choice of barrel profile will depend on the individual’s personal preferences and intended use of the rifle. Therefore, it is important to consider the trade-offs and choose the barrel profile that best suits your needs.
