Mike-102: an AK-AR-HK Hybrid?
One of the more interesting rifle-related things unveiled at SHOT Show 2023 was also one of the most interesting Foxtrot Mike products available yet: an AK AR hybrid called the Mike-102. The Foxtrot Mike Mike-102 is a hybrid AR 15 and AK 47 rifle with some HK influences forged in. That may or may not appeal to some folks, but you can bet it will to many others.
Why? Because we can. ‘Merica.
Foxtrot Mike Products: the Mike-102
AK AR HK Hybrid?
The FM Mike-102 is an AR15 platform chambered in .223 Wylde that feeds from AK magazines. It utilizes the Foxtrot Mike compact DI system, features a folding stock, and sports an HK-style forward charging handle.
This is an intriguing combination that provides AR handling, the use of rock-and-lock AK mags, and the option of using the “HK slap” to drop the bolt.
Maybe we’re shallow, but we like that.
Here are some other FM Mike-102 things to know:
• Production testing was at least partially conducted during KalashBash and Red Oktober.
• It’s a bufferless system (i.e., no buffer nor no buffer tube).
• Some have a non-reciprocating side charging handle; others have the “slap mod”.
• The “slap mod variant” echoes HK charging handles.
• You can lock the bolt to the rear.
• It takes AK102 compatible magazines in 5.56×45
• Will be available in sizes ranging from a 9-inch pistol all the way up to a 16-inch rifle.
• A 13.9 pin and weld model will be inbound soon.
• So will a 7.62x39mm version.
Via Atlantic Firearms
Foxtrot Mike describes the Mike-102 as a “…modern AK-Hybrid, designed for the modern shooter to use a wide variety of AK 5.56/223 magazines and offer the familiar Rock N Lock magwell. The 102 is lightweight, accurate, and modular, much like an AR-15, but with the added benefit of using most AK magazines. It uses a simple direct impingement operating system that is simple and reliable.”
Learn more about Foxtrot Mike’s AK AR Hybrid.
Read this article in its entirety at Rainier Arms.
Magpul Announces DAKA GRID Organizer
Good evening everyone,
As we get ready for SHOT Show 2023, we’re lifting the curtain on a slew of new Magpul products scheduled for release during the first 90-120 days of 2023 (mostly!). As a reminder, our new product lineup is featured in Booth 11660 if you’re going to be in Vegas for the show next week.
Today’s big news is the unveiling (and releasing!) of a new organization and storage solution for your rifle case. It’s a completely new system that allows you to customize and upgrade traditional gun cases in a way that changes with your loadout, is easier to use, and offers better protection: the DAKA® GRID Organizer. We’re also talking a bit about our new DAKA® Hard Cases (coming in three sizes) that arrive with our DAKA® GRID Organizer already installed.
It’s about time that Magpul took their DAKA technology and applied it to hard cases. The new GRID Organizer replaces the foam found in many cases with a highly customizable grid system with block insets to stabilize the contents.
Offered for the Pelican V800 and V730 cases.
Learn more about Magpul’s Daka grid organizer
Revision Military’s Collaboration With Fast Metal: The Speed Demon Sunglasses
When it comes to eyewear, Revision Military and Fast Metal are two brands that always deliver. Revision Military has been at the forefront of protective eyewear technology for years, constantly striving to create the best ballistic protective lenses. Fast Metal, on the other hand, has been busy crafting top-quality aluminum sunglasses made in the USA. Now, these two companies have come together to unveil their newest collaboration. Here’s the companies’ official press release; now it’s time to see what they have to say.
A Perfect Pair
Revision Military, a leading producer of protective eyewear, has spent years developing best-in-class ballistic protective lenses. Similarly, Fast Metal and its founder have spent that time developing premium made-in-USA aluminum sunglasses. With this collaboration announcement, the two companies have combined what they are truly experts in to create the Revision Speed Demon metal sunglasses with Revision’s new I-Vis lens technology. These sunglasses bring together state-of-the-art lens technology with a sleek, stylish frame.
Fast Metal was built on over 35 years of experience in manufacturing the highest quality metal sunglasses by its founder, Ken Wilson. As the pioneer of the aluminum sunglass industry, Ken created the first patented 27-step procedure for manufacturing high-quality aluminum frames. Today, Fast Metal is proud to offer the world’s first and best aluminum sunglass and eyewear protection system featuring field-replaceable lenses.
About Revision Military
Over the past 20 years, Revision has become the proven supplier of military protective eyewear to NATO forces worldwide. This new partnership with Fast Metal is a powerful relationship combining military and tactical industry expertise with the best aluminum sunglass design. The goal – is to create an eyewear protection system that customers not only need but want.
“At Revision, we believe in the power of partnerships and collaborations in bringing new and exciting technology to end-users quickly,” said Revision CEO Amy Coyne. “Our new I-Vis lens technology delivers enhanced visual performance, and we needed an everyday sunglass platform to offer protection, style, and performance. We believe this collab is just the beginning of our partnership with Ken and the Fast Metal team.”
This is an example of the I-Vis Technology and not the Speed Demon frames
Speed Demon Specs
So what’s so special about these new Revision Speed Demon Sunglasses?
Well, first, the frame is entirely made out of aluminum 7075 allow, which provides ANSI Z87.1 protection.
Second, it is available with Revision’s new I-Vis lens technology. This technology is an advanced dye formulation process resulting in a new series of lens tints that markedly enhance visual performance. More than a single solution, I-Vis lenses are available in six tints, each optimized for use in a different environment. Each tint is designed to increase contrast and elevate color recognition in specific geographic regions, doing so without the negative effects associated with traditional monochromatic lens tints. These Speed Demon lenses also come with Revision’s OcuMax anti-fog and scratch coating and are field replaceable.
Finally, all frames and lenses are made in the USA; frames are made by Fast Metal in Yuma, Arizona, and lenses are made by Revision in Essex Junction, Vermont. The product is available for sale today at www.revisionmilitary.com and coming soon to Revision’s network of dealers and distributors around the globe.
Read our newest articles here!
Final Rule ATF 2021-05F: The BATFE on 80% Frames
FINAL RULE ATF: Last week, the BATFE issued new guidance on the legality of 80% frame lowers like those manufactured by Polymer 80, Lone Wolf Arms, Nomad Defense, and Matrix Arms. It’s rarely a Good Thing when we have to report ATF news, and this time is no different.
ATF Changes its Mind. Again.
Once again, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) has changed its mind. Remember how 80 percent frames and lowers were legal until Joe Biden’s ATF decided that they weren’t? You know, like the ATF always does.
That question was shaking out as part of the Vanderstok v. Garland case in federal court, with the ATF agreeing that the frames and receivers in question were indeed legal so long as they didn’t ship with “associated templates, jigs, molds, equipment, tools, instructions, guides, or marketing materials.”
So, basically, the frames and receivers are only firearms under the Gun Control Act (GCA) if they are packaged with those “non-firearm objects” (NFO). Strange, but okay. Companies had already incorporated that change and were continuing to ship their products. NFO sold separately.
Then, out of the blue, ATF dropped a new rule on FFLs by way of a December 27 open letter. The letter stated that “these partially complete pistol frames are ‘frames’ and ‘firearms’ as defined in the GCA and its implementing regulations.” Even if they don’t include the NFO items.
ATF bases this change on the definition of the word “readily,” as in whether these frames can be “readily converted” to fully functioning firearms.
Here’s an excerpt from that statement:
Applying the regulatory text of Final Rule 2021-05F, partially complete Polymer80, Lone Wolf, and similar striker-fired semiautomatic pistol frames, including, but not limited to, those sold within parts kits, have reached a stage of manufacture where they “may readily be completed, assembled, restored, or otherwise converted” to a functional frame. This definition of “readily” applies to each and every classification of a partially complete frame or receiver under this Rule, whether sold alone or as part of a kit. Therefore, even without any associated templates, jigs, molds, equipment, tools, instructions, guides, or marketing materials, these partially complete pistol frames are “frames” and also “firearms” as defined in the GCA and its implementing regulations, 18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(3)(B) and 27 CFR 478.12(a)(1), (c).
The following are some examples of companies that build 80% frames.
Now learn about the sizes of handguns!
Ruger 10/22 Bolt Upgrade from Faxon Firearms
There are many parts that make up a 10/22 rifle, and each one of them plays an important role. However, the most critical component of the Ruger is the bolt.
The trigger may be what initiates every shot, but it’s the bolt that’s responsible for the shot-to-shot operation.
A high-quality bolt affects more than just reliability. The bolt face, its consistency, and how the firing pin strikes the bullet significantly contribute to the rifle’s accuracy.
Right side view
Faxon Stainless Steel Bolt Assembly for 10/22
Whether you’re building up a new gun or keeping an old favorite running, the Faxon 10/22 Bolt Assembly is the best choice.
Compatible with the OEM receiver, trigger group, charging handle, and bolt stop pin, the Faxon 10/22 bolt is fully assembled and ready to drop into your Ruger 10/22.
Specs
- Material: 17-4 PH Stainless steel, H900
- Hardness: HRC 40 – 47
- Round Firing Pin
- Sharp Extractor
Why Upgrade a 10/22 Bolt?
Upgrading the bolt improves reliability and accuracy on any 10/22 rifle.
A high-quality bolt such as the one from Faxon Firearms is properly radiused and polished to enhance the reliability of the cyclic action.
Additionally, the Faxon 10/22 bolt has the proper head spacing in order to improve the reliability of the bullets feeding from the magazine into the chamber.
Lastly, proper firing pin protrusion ensures optimal striking of the rimfire case.
For these reasons, upgrading your 10/22 bolt does have its advantages.
All these small gains add up to overall reliability, consistent performance, and improved accuracy.
Does The Ruger 10/22 Have a Bolt Hold Open?
Out of the box in the stock configuration, the Ruger 10/22 does not have a last-round bolt hold open feature.
To add the bolt hold open feature, you need a third-party upgrade such as the CST Auto Bolt Stop.
What is a Bolt Buffer?
A bolt buffer replaces/upgrades the bolt stop pin in your 10/22 receiver. The OEM bolt stop pin is made from steel, whereas the bolt buffer is made from a polymer material.
Over time the steel bolt stop pin can cause micro-cracks in the receiver due to repeated impacts of the bolt during shooting. The bolt buffer mitigates that and several other issues by being manufactured out of a polymer material.
Left side view
There are three main benefits of replacing the bolt stop pin with a bolt buffer.
- It reduces the sound when the bolt slams rearward during the cycling action during shooting. This is also a benefit when shooting suppressed as it greatly reduces the noise signature even more.
- The 10/22 blowback action is less shaky because of the dampening of the recoil and bolt cycling vibrations.
- It can prevent cracks in the 10/22 receiver resulting from prolonged usage, high round count shooting, or the added stress of high-velocity ammo.
The Ruger 10/22 bolt by Faxon includes a bolt buffer to replace the OEM bolt stop pin. If you’re interested in learning more, check out more on the Ruger 10/22 Bolt here.
Originally posted on Firearms Press.
FFL eZ Check: Now you can access the ATF FFL list yourself
An expired FFL license number, even an unknowing one, can be a significant legal problem (not to mention an unnecessary delays in your range time). FFL eZ Check will allow private users to access the ATF FFL list and determine a particular licensee’s current standing. This article originally ran November 8 2022.
FFL eZ Check explained
FFL eZ Check allows private parties and other FFLs to verify if a federal firearms license is valid. The user needs only enter the first three (3) digits and the last five (5) digits of the FFL being verified in the blocks provided and select the SUBMIT button. Selecting the RESET button will clear previously entered data.
You can now check the ATF FFL list online and confirm the legitimacy of an FFL/SOT before doing business with them.
FX19 | Faxon Firearms’ Complete Glock 19 Kit
The Polymer 80 kits have become so popular that they are usually out of stock everywhere. However, it’s a great way to custom-build your variant of a Glock 19.
Although you may learn a lot by building your gun, some may want the advantages of a Polymer 80 kit but don’t want to hassle with learning how to do it or taking the time to do it.
Faxon Firearms has remedied that issue by offering a complete PF940C kit known as the FX19. The Faxon FX19 comes in two different variants; The FX19 Patriot and its big brother, the FX19 Hellfire.
Faxon FX19 Patriot (Left) and Faxon FX19 Hellfire (Right) with the EXOS compensator.
The Faxon FX19 pistols are more or less a Polymer 80 PF940C complete kit, without being a Glock 19, but are compatible with all Glock 19 parts and accessories.
Stock PF940C build compared to the Complete Faxon FX19 Patriot build.
PF940C In Stock | Faxon FX19
Faxon took the PF940C gun frame and gave it a 1911 grip angle and improved texture. In addition to that, they polished the front & rear slide rails.
They may be minor differences, but they are noticeable when holding the gun in your hand.
They dropped in an Overwatch Precision Trigger to finish the custom frame.
The Faxon Patriot FX19
The Faxon Patriot was made for concealed carry. Everything from the grip to the trigger and sights make for a formidable CCW firearm.
What stands out the most is the custom-cut slide with serrations in all the right places for manipulating the gun and doing press checks.
The top of the slide has been cut for a Trijicon RMR or Holosun 507C. The front sight is a bright red fiber optic with a blacked-out rear site, making it extremely quick and easy to locate.
On top of all that, the Patriot comes with a match-grade barrel made in-house by Faxon, and lastly, the Patriot ships with a 15-round Glock OEM magazine.
The Faxon Hellfire FX19
The big brother to the Faxon Patriot is the Faxon Hellfire FX19.
After handling the Patriot, the Hellfire was quite a different experience. The Hellfire feels made for my hand.
The Hellfire utilizes the same frame as the Patriot, with the exception of a magwell. The magwell alone makes a noticeable difference in the grip. However, because of the magwell and the undercut trigger guard, you can get the highest grip possible on the gun.
The sights used on the Hellfire are suppressor-height sights from Night Fision. In addition, the front sight contains a Tritium insert that ALWAYS glows, and the rear sight is blacked-out. This combination makes for fast target acquisition.
The custom-cut slide, threaded barrel, Night Fision suppressor height sights, and extended 20-round magazine w/magwell may remind you of something from a John Wick movie.
PF940C vs PF940v2
The PF940C frame is considered a compact size, I.E., Glock 19, while the Polymer 80 PF940v2 build is regarded as a full-sized frame, I.E., Glock 17.
The best thing about the full-frame PF940V2 is the compatibility with 9mm, .40 S&W, and .357 Sig pistols.
What Gen Glock is the PF940C?
The PF940C is explicitly made for the Glock 19/23 Gen 3 pistol frame, magazine, and barrel.
What is PF940C compatible with?
The PF940C offers compatibility with Glock 19 Gen 3 components. In addition, the PF940C frame comes with an aggressive texture that emulates a stippled pattern.
Features like the extended beaver tail, a double undercut trigger guard, and a thumb ledge enhance the ergonomics allowing for an adequate grip and improved recoil control.
Gen 3 Vertx Bags and EDC Packs: Contemporary Carry
The third generation of EDC packs and CCW bags from Vertx are now making their way into the wild. The first pack sortie includes the Vertx GAMUT, their READY PACK, and the NAVIGATOR.
The company tells us,
“Life comes at you fast, but you take pride in being prepared for anything and everything. Like you, our next generation of bags and packs are ready for whatever life throws. Each pack can be customized for your exact needs.”
Built for every adventure, every mission, and every day.
Take a look a the key features of the latest generation of Vertx bags.
- Modern exterior with reduced “Tactical” tells
- Moveable EDC Rapid Access Tab allows you to pick the zipper you want the tab to be on
- Tactigami™ Double Admin Panel included in every bag
- More loop lining throughout the bags for more customization
- Laser Cut MOLLE behind front panel (excluding Navigator)
- Water bottle retention system to better secure your hydration
- Plenty of room, modularity, and organizational capability for virtually any need.
Vertx Gen 3 Bags and Packs Explained
Read more at Rainier Arms.
Best Pistol Compensator for CCW?
There’s been a resurgence in pistol compensators this year as a few manufacturers have come out with options for various handgun models. Are comps worth the hype, especially for concealed carry?
Faxon Firearms says, “Anything improving pistol accuracy is worth checking out.”
That said, let’s take a look at the Faxon Firearms EXOS.
From the Faxon release.
Faxon EXOS | Is It The Best Pistol Compensator?
Constructed of black anodized 6061 Aluminum, the Faxon EXOS features an angled front port single chamber design, enabling the compensator to improve shot-to-shot accuracy by reducing muzzle climb and recoil.
Watch the video, see what you think.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=guOEcvqJQAg
The EXOS’ specially designed port design allows gas to deflect upwards as opposed to only deflecting to the sides, reducing the up-and-down muzzle movement and allowing your sights to reset on target much faster.
The Faxon EXOS Pistol Compensator is designed to fit flush with the slide and has been optimized for Faxon match-grade pistol barrels. For all other threaded pistol barrels, the barrel should protrude .600″ or less for a flush fit.
Compatible Hosts For The Faxon EXOS Pistol Comp
- All Glock Gen 5 Pistols
- Glock 19/17/34 Gen 4Glock 19/17/34 Gen 3
- Glock 43/43x
- Glock 48
- SIG P365/P365XL
- SIG P320
- M&P Shield/Shield Plus
- M&P Full Size Pistols
- Faxon FX19 Pistols
Each EXOS pistol compensator comes complete with thread locker, two 6-32 set screws, and a 1/16 Allen wrench.
Faxon EXOS pistol compensator.
Best Pistol Compensator (Including For Concealed Carry)
If you want to add a compensator to your concealed carry pistol, the Faxon EXOS Comp is a great choice.
Concealed carry holsters are often not too forgiving when it comes to pistol compensators. The EXOS Comp addresses these issues with its low-profile design that mimics the profile of the pistol’s slide.
The EXOS will work with any open-ended holster designed for your pistol. Even IWB holsters can work comfortably with this compensator.
Conclusion
We’re confident you’ll agree the Faxon EXOS is one of the best pistol compensators to hit the market.
Granted it’s not the only player in town, but its unique port design, ease of installation, and performance have put the competition on its heels.
Learn more at www.faxonfirearms.com.
TRIGGRCON 2022: THREE DAYS LEFT
We’re down to just three days left before TRIGGRCON! Just a reminder, if you didn’t manage to pre-register, you can still get tickets at the event.
Today we’re going to talk about an Evening with Heroes. The VIP event will be an intimate gathering of tactical industry leaders, first responders, military VIPs, and VIP ticket holders.
The VIP event will include some of the best NW spirits & beverages, fantastic food, exciting tactical entertainment, giveaways, and a raffle that will benefit our charity, Resilient Warrior Foundation.
We think you should attend and support a good cause!
Get Tickets for the VIP Party!
“Don’t wake up on the 9th and realize you didn’t come; you’re going to have to wait a whole year thinking about how you missed the biggest event in the region.” – GW Ayers III, Chief Operating Officer of Rainier Arms.
Featured Influencers Attending
AR15 News
MSM | Mil-Spec Monkey
Ava Flanell
Pew Pew Tactical
Baby Yota
Who Can Attend?
The Enthusiast
If you support or are interested in the firearm industry. Whether on a competitive match, in your backyard, or hunting.
Media & Industry
Do you either work in the industry in some capacity or support the industry through your business? This is for you!
Just a reminder, this year’s expo will be held at the premier Flint Oak Hunting Lodge in Flint Oak, KS. The dates for the expo are October 7th-8th, 2022. Range day and exhibitor events will be running concurrently.
TRIGGRCON FAQ
- Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter TRIGGRCON?
TRIGGRCON is an all-ages show. There are no ID requirements though everyone must have a ticket to enter.
- What are my parking options at TRIGGRCON?
There is limited parking under the convention center. However, parking will be free for our patrons and we intend on having two party shuttle buses in circulation at all times throughout the day on both days.
- How are the shuttles working?
They’ll be transporting folks from the main parking lot to the main lodge where all the non-firing vendors will be located. As people offload at the registration tents in front of the main lodge, they can hop back on if they would like and head to the long-distance range.
- Can I bring my pet to the TRIGGRCON?
No animals are allowed. The only exception is for correctly identified on-duty ADA-recognized service animals.
- Are personal firearms or ammunition allowed?
Personal firearms must remain in a holster and cannot be discharged.
- How can I contact the organizer with any questions?
Please send all questions to [email protected]
- Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?
No, you may either print your ticket or have it on your phone.
- Will badges be required?
Only industry, media, and exhibitors will be required to wear a badge during the show. Standard public/enthusiast attendees do not need to wear a badge during the show.
Originally posted on Firearms Press.