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.
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.
These ballistic rated specs from Revision may be the best tactical sunglasses available yet – if not, it’s only because their other i-Vis eye pro is also awesome.
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!